Tuesday night’s Assembly meeting was a relatively tame affair, though we expect a busier agenda at our March 29 gathering. The proceedings got off to a very nice start, however, when we took a few minutes to honor a community volunteer.
Dr. Sharon Chamard, who has ably guided the Fairview Community Council for the past three years (following four years in other executive committee positions), was presented with a surprise resolution recognizing her “exceptional citizenship.” Adding to the fun were a number of long-time Fairview and Mountain View community council members joining in the presentation. As Dr. Chamard herself noted, one of the great things about Anchorage is that even a non-citizen (Sharon is Canadian) can get involved and make a difference, and she certainly has.
It’s also noteworthy that Anchorage’s community councils are included in the municipality’s charter, making our community rather unique in that its “constitution” recognizes the importance of neighborhood-based discussion and deliberation. Community council work is challenging and involves long hours with little, if any, tangible reward but it’s an important part of our deliberative process. Many times I’ve brought proposed legislation to community councils to seek input and suggestions, which invariably leads to a better product. The opportunity to offer thanks is a real pleasure and, hopefully, will inspire others to follow in Dr. Chamard’s impressive footsteps.
Regards,
Patrick
P.S. You can learn more about your community council, including boundaries, officers and meeting times, here.
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Hurrah for Sharon!!! Fairview is uniquely fortunate to have her with us. May our neighborhood always be so blessed.
Comment: Paul – 10. March 2011 @ 10:39 am
I’m glad you guys took the time to recognize a volunteer. I don’t know Sharon, but I know our folks in Mt. View, and our community has a number of volunteers that provide stand out service.
Comment: Tasha – 10. March 2011 @ 7:58 pm
Thank you for recognizing Sharon. She really is a hard worker and I appreciated all of her help with the Spenard Sara project. Fairview and Anchorage is a better place with her in it.
Comment: Matt Burkkholder – 11. March 2011 @ 7:34 pm
I was humbled by the Assembly resolution, and continue to be humbled by the many warm sentiments expressed to me by others in the community. Ten years ago, I would have never believed I would live in Anchorage, but now, I can’t imagine a better place to be. I feel truly fortunate to live in this wonderful city, amongst such wonderful people.
Comment: Sharon Chamard – 14. March 2011 @ 12:57 pm
Thank the League of Women Voters for the inclusion of community councils in the charter.
Comment: friend43 – 16. March 2011 @ 8:37 pm