SR-186, As Adopted by Senate, November 3, 2010

            Senators Prusi, Thomas, Scott, Hunter, Anderson, Clark-Coleman, Barcia, Olshove, Basham, Brater, Switalski, Whitmer, Jacobs and Gleason offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 186.

            A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Deborah Cherry.

            Whereas, It is with deep appreciation for her commitment to our state that we commend and thank Deborah Cherry. As she brings to a close her distinguished career as a legislator, Senator Cherry leaves the Michigan Legislature having earned great respect from her colleagues for her collegiality, work ethic, and dedication to strengthening our great state; and

            Whereas, A proud daughter of Burton, Michigan, Deborah Cherry earned a bachelor's degree from Oakland University and a master's degree from the University of Michigan-Flint. Her concern for the well-being of each and every Michigan resident is reflected in all aspects of her life. Her responsibilities have included working for several senior citizen agencies; serving as a Genesee County Commissioner from 1989 to 1994, including a stint as chair; and taking on a leadership role as chair of the Greater Flint Health Coalition. With her election to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1994, she continued her service to the residents of the state of Michigan in a new capacity and became a champion for children, the elderly, and people suffering with mental health challenges; and

            Whereas, In her 14 years of legislative service, including six years in the House and eight years in the Michigan Senate, Deborah Cherry earned a reputation for carefully considering every issue and for speaking out for those whose voices are generally the least heard in society. She was a strong proponent of the Michigan Promise Grant Act, which helped countless young adults attend college. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Cherry contributed to the extremely difficult task of creating state budgets. In this role, she always advocated for health care and mental health services; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we offer this expression of our gratitude and admiration for Senator Deborah Cherry as she brings to a close 14 years of service to the people of this state as a lawmaker; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Senator Cherry as evidence of our respect and best wishes.