In Memory of Sally Kabisch
Sally A. Kabisch was a dedicated and inspiring wilderness advocate whose passing has left a large hole in the wilderness community. Her spirit is carried forward by her husband and two wonderful children. Future generations will benefit from the wilderness in Alaska and Nevada that Sally worked so hard to protect. An award will be given in her name at the upcoming Fortieth Anniversary Wilderness Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the National Press Club.

Senator Harry Reid entered the following eloquent memorial to Sally A. Kabisch in the Congressional Record on September 8, 2004:

"Madame President, there are times in history when one person can and does make a difference. The recent death of Sally Kabisch reminded me of one such person and one particular period of time.

"Sally Kabisch dedicated herself to a remarkable career of conservation. She worked at various times as a grassroots organizer and advocate for conservation efforts in Nevada, California and Alaska.

"One of Sally's great achievements was in Nevada. Perhaps more than any other citizen, Sally is responsible for Nevada's Forest Service Wilderness bill, which I had the opportunity to pass through Congress in 1989. From 1986 until President Bush signed the Nevada Wilderness Act on December 5, 1989, Sally was an indomitable and ever-optimistic force for protecting wild places in Nevada. She worked doggedly to build support for wilderness. She organized, she advocated, and she traveled. As she worked to pass that law, she was patient, positive, enthusiastic, stubborn and determined. As her friend and another great advocate for Nevada's outdoors, Marge Sill, says, "she was a constant inspiration to all of us.''

"Sally's husband Tom Kizzia and her children Emily and Ethan know what the rest of us should remember: One person can make a difference. Sally was one person who made a great difference. Nevada and America are better and wilder for it, forever."

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