[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 148 (Thursday, September 21, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1829]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO RALPH LEACH

                                 ______


                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 21, 1995

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mount Clemens 
businessman and civic leader, Ralph Leach. After many years in 
business, Ralph has sold his popular office supply and craft store, 
Art-O-Craft, and is retiring. He is being honored this evening during 
the city's annual ArtParty.
  Ralph Leach is known in Mount Clemens, MI, as a man of faith--faith 
in God, hard work, family, and community service. At one time Ralph 
operated three successful Art-O-Craft stores. However, many years ago, 
Ralph decided that family life and community service were the key to 
success, not being the wealthiest man in town.
  Ralph Leach has worked hard to revitalize the community of Mount 
Clemens. As a retailer, business leader, and community activist, Ralph 
has worked with other members of the Mount Clemens Business Association 
to rejuvenate the city. He has helped foster a sense of cooperation 
between local business people that has helped give the city a new look 
and attitude. Mount Clemens has again become a city where people are 
proud to work, shop, and live.
  Ralph's commitment to service and hard work are not limited to his 
entrepreneurial endeavors. The Mount Clemens Salvation Army and the 
YMCA represent only a few of the many organizations to which he has 
committed his time and talents. In fact, Ralph's life will probably be 
as busy in retirement as it was when he operated Art-O-Craft. Ralph 
plans to become more active in his role as a minister. Currently he 
serves as chaplain at St. Joseph's Hospital where he ministers to the 
spiritual needs of patients and their families. He also is chairman of 
the deacon board at community Baptist Church in St. Clair Shores, MI. 
Sunday school classes for youngsters, senior citizens, and women's 
groups have all benefited from the faith and insight Ralph is able to 
provide. Ralph even ministers to the needs of prisoners. The Macomb 
County sheriff asked him to join the jail ministries board where he has 
served for 7 years.
  Taking an active role in one's community is a responsibility we all 
share, but few fulfill. Ralph Leach has dedicated much of his life to 
this endeavor. I deeply admire his strong values and outstanding 
example of civic involvement. His time, talents, and energy are 
appreciated by all of us. I thank Ralph Leach for his efforts and 
commend him for his good work.
  I have known Ralph for many years and he richly deserves all the best 
in retirement. I ask that my colleagues join me in offering heartfelt 
congratulations to Ralph Leach on the event of his retirement.

                          ____________________