Sen. Orrin Hatch's major accomplishments through the years are well-known to Utahns: his initiatives for the balanced budget amendment, his fight against higher taxes, his effort to roll back government regulations, his commitment to strengthen the family, to ensure appropriate health care and services for those in need and to protect Utah's beautiful environment.

Lesser known are the many quiet things that he does. The senator and his wife, Elaine, sponsor an annual Conference for Seniors, bringing new insights and opportunities to thousands of seniors on issues pertinent to their well-being.

They also sponsor the annual Utah Women's Conference, which serves women from all walks of life. Their Utah Families Foundation has donated more than $10 million to Utah charities, serving families, individuals at risk and our youth.

Hatch also uses his vast network of relationships in the federal, state and international communities to benefit local businesses, technology, economy and education.

These are just a small sampling of the ways the senator serves. They demonstrate how so much of what he does on behalf of Utah takes place outside of the limelight of Washington, D.C.

Carol Nixon

Salt Lake City