[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 18 (Tuesday, February 2, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E116]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING LEIGH MORRIS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TIM ROEMER

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 2, 1999

  Mr. ROEMER. Mr. Speaker, there is a common question asked in 
theoretical science that has also become part of the political lexicon. 
And I think I have the answer. The question is ``What happens when an 
irresistible force meets an immovable object?'' The answer is ``Leigh 
Morris.''
  I say this because Leigh is both. He has been a tireless worker for 
our community and a vortex of organized activity to advance health care 
quality. And he has also been a stoic, standing rock-solid in his 
insistence on excellence, community participation and vision for the 
future.
  Although we consider Leigh our own in northern Indiana, he is 
nationally recognized for his expertise and abilities in health care 
management and planning. I must also add that Leigh is equally well-
known for his grace, courtesy and intellect.
  Leigh Morris has served in his capacity as President of LaPorte 
Hospital, which is now known as the LaPorte Hospital Regional Health 
System, for twenty-one years. His stewardship at the helm has steered 
through some very rough times, and some very good ones. And he will be 
leaving at a time of very positive growth and success. We will know in 
the future that the good health of our hospital system was due in part 
to Leigh's planning and foresight.
  Although his dedication to the LaPorte Hospital is the counterpiece 
of Leigh's career, he will also be remembered for his leadership at the 
Indiana Hospital Association and the American Hospital Association. He 
has brought his unique vision to hospitals, administrators and 
providers throughout the nation, and I know they are as grateful for 
his gifts as we Hoosiers are.
  Mr. Speaker, Leigh has impacted our community in many ways beyond the 
health care system. He has been involved in other quality of life 
issues, fighting for superior education, pulling for economic 
development, laboring to bring enriching cultural experiences to our 
citizens, young and old.
  Many have expressed concern that we are somehow ``losing'' Leigh 
Morris due to his retirement. I think otherwise. Leigh is not leaving 
us, rather he enters a new chapter in his life. I know that he will 
find new and interesting ways to bring added life and zest to our 
community: in health care, in business and in all ways. I am pleased to 
be able to join his wife Marcia and his family in sharing the pride and 
admiration I know they must feel at this important time.
  Mr. Speaker, some among us are leaders, some are healers, and some 
are teachers. Leigh Morris is all of these. He has preserved the health 
of so many, kindled the imagination of more, and inspired everyone. For 
all he has done, he deserves recognition and reward.
  For who he is, his own work was reward enough.

                          ____________________