[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 169 (Thursday, November 20, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2361]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      PAYING TRIBUTE TO SAM MAYNES

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                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to 
my friend Sam Maynes. Sam has dedicated his life to advocating for the 
empowerment of those less fortunate. He is a tremendous attorney, 
husband, father, and friend. As Sams's 70th birthday approaches, I 
would like to call attention to his many contributions to the Colorado 
community.
   Sam is the senior partner of the Durango law firm of Maynes, 
Bradford, Shipps and Sheftel. Formed in 1961, Sam's firm is general 
counsel for the Ute Indian Tribe, and special counsel for the Ute 
Mountain Tribe. Sam is also one of the foremost experts in water law in 
the United States. He is general counsel for the Southwestern Water 
Conservation District in Colorado and was instrumental in working to 
reach a compromise to make the Animas La Plata water project possible. 
As an attorney, Sam redefines the phrase `zealous advocacy.' He is 
renowned for fighting ferociously for what he believes in. Sam is a man 
of conviction, and principle, when his morals dictate a position for 
one of his clients; he is willing to go to the ends of the earth to 
assure that justice prevails.
   Sam's ferocious advocacy has earned him many accolades. He is the 
recipient of the United States Bureau of Reclamation Citizen Award, the 
Wayne N. Aspinall Water Leader of the Year Award, the Distinguished 
Achievement Award from the University of Colorado Law School, and the 
Citizen of the Year Award from the Durango Area Chamber Resort 
Association. In addition, Sam was named an Honorary Order of the Coif 
by the University of Colorado School of Law. Sam's many recognitions 
are a testament to his talent, conviction and integrity. The State of 
Colorado is truly a better place as the result of Sam's contributions.
   The year since Sam's last birthday has been a trying one. Last 
winter, Sam lost his wonderful wife Jacqueline to multiple sclerosis. 
Jacqueline was Sam's ``angel'' and the mother of his four tremendous 
children. However, even after her death, Sam approaches each day with 
the knowledge that Jacqueline is there with him as he fights for those 
who need his help. Despite these tribulations, Sam still displays a 
playful zest for life each day. Those who visit Sam in his office are 
often treated to a piece of Sam's famous homemade apricot brandy pound 
cake while they are amused by Sam's charm, humor and contentment. Sam 
is truly a magnificent person.
   Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to come before Congress to pay 
tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to the ``under dog.'' Sam's 
life is the embodiment of all that makes this country great and I 
consider it an honor to be his friend. Happy Birthday, Sam.

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