[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 51 (Wednesday, April 2, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E477]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E477]]
                 TRIBUTE TO POLICE CHIEF ALBERT W. BELL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN T. SALAZAR

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 2, 2008

  Mr. SALAZAR. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I pay 
tribute to a respected leader from southwest Colorado, Police Chief 
Albert W. Bell of Durango, Colorado. Chief Bell has served the 
community of Durango with distinction for 14 years and has now 
announced his retirement, effective April 5, 2008.
  Chief Bell's career in law enforcement started 37 years ago as a 
patrolman for the Topeka Police Department. On July 1, 1999, then 
Colorado Governor Bill Owens appointed Chief Bell to the Colorado Peace 
Officer Standards and Training, POST, Board. Chief Bell served that 
Board with distinction and in the highest traditions of the law 
enforcement profession.
  Chief Bell is a member of the Colorado Association of Chiefs of 
Police and has served on numerous boards that serve the interests of 
the citizens of Colorado. In service to his local community, Chief Bell 
has served as Undersheriff in the La Plata County Sheriff's Department 
and also served on the Community Connections Board at Hilltop House.
  Chief Bell has demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism 
and is recognized as a leader among law enforcement professionals in 
the Third Congressional District, fostering cooperative relationships 
amongst the Federal, State, and local law enforcement communities.
  Madam Speaker, I commend Durango Police Chief Al Bell for his 
outstanding leadership, service, and dedication to the residents of 
Durango, Colorado. While we will all miss Chief Bell's service and 
dedication, I ask that you join me in wishing him well upon his 
retirement.

                          ____________________