[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 2]
[Senate]
[Page 2468]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                       TRIBUTE TO CHERYL FLETCHER

  Mr. NICKLES. Mr. President, today I rise to recognize the efforts of 
Cheryl Fletcher for her outstanding service. Today, Cheryl is retiring 
after more than 21 years of service to me, the U.S. Senate and the 
people of Oklahoma.
  Cheryl has been with me since the beginning of my U.S. Senate career.
  She joined my first U.S. Senate campaign in 1980. After winning, I 
asked her to establish an office in my hometown--Ponca City. Before 
joining my staff, she worked as director of the Ponca City United Way.
  During the last 21 years, Cheryl has served as the State Director, 
coordinating my schedule in Oklahoma and working as my liaison for 
northern Oklahoma. She has worked diligently for the people of Alfalfa, 
Grant, Kay, Washington, Osage, Pawnee, Payne, Noble, Major and Garfield 
counties. She's been Ponca City's Outstanding Citizen of the Year and 
an active member of the Chamber of Commerce.
  My colleagues can appreciate the tight time schedules we keep, and 
Cheryl is one of the best when it comes to keeping me on time. I 
remember late one night, we were going back to Ponca from a meeting in 
Woodward. Cheryl was driving and flew right past a stop sign. Needless 
to say, my heart skipped a beat. Rain storms, snow storms, even perfect 
weather, Cheryl was determined to get us there on time.
  Her service, dedication and hard work have always been an asset to me 
and all Oklahomans. I and the entire State of Oklahoma will miss her 
knowledge and experience. It has been my privilege and pleasure to work 
with her these years.
  Few believed a young businessman from Ponca City could be a U.S. 
Senator. Cheryl believed and worked tirelessly to convince them, and 
occasionally me, that they were wrong.
  Today, in Ponca City, Pioneer Bank, Home National Bank, Conoco, and 
Evans and Associates is hosting a reception in her honor. I know the 
place will be packed and I'm sorry I can't be there to personally 
recognize her on this special day.
  I want to congratulate Cheryl, who is a loyal friend and employee, 
and thank her for 21 years of hard work. I wish her all the best.

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