[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 121 (Friday, September 5, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1698]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E1698]]
           TRIBUTE TO SOUTHERN UTE CHAIRMAN LEONARD C. BURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 4, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I rise 
before this body of Congress to pay tribute to the life and passing of 
a truly visionary leader. As Chairman of the Southern Ute Tribe in 
Ignacio, Colorado, Leonard Burch worked tirelessly to elevate his tribe 
to a place of national prominence and improve the welfare of its 
members. I have great pride as I rise to highlight Chairman Burch's 
accomplishments and years of service to the State of Colorado.
  The Southern Ute Tribe found a leader with vision for the long-term 
when they elected Leonard to serve as Chairman in 1967. Despite a soft-
spoken demeanor, Chairman Burch exuded a strong presence, and elected 
officials throughout my state held him in high regard. Chairman Burch 
built on these partnerships to help pass the statute creating the 
Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs in 1976. Chairman Burch's high 
standard of public service and strong leadership style will serve as an 
example for generations of future leaders.
  Chairman Burch was widely renowned for his caring personality and 
dedication to the long-term development of the Southern Ute Tribe. His 
policies as tribal Chairman focused on energy development, the health 
of his fellow tribe members, and the education of tribal youth. While 
he cared for the entire tribe's well being, Chairman Burch's focus 
never strayed from his family. He always spoke proudly of his seven 
daughters.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand before this body of Congress to pay 
tribute to Leonard Burch for his devotion to his family, dedication to 
his community, and the leadership he offered to the Southern Ute Tribe. 
His legacy is evident in the enhanced self-determination, opportunity, 
and sovereignty that his fellow tribe members enjoy today. While he 
will be dearly missed, we can all take solace in the knowledge that 
Chairman Burch's spirit lives on through those whom he has touched.

                          ____________________