[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 72 (Wednesday, May 3, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E936]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                     A TRIBUTE TO DR. JAMES WILLIS

                                 ______


                            HON. JERRY LEWIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 3, 1995
  Mr. LEWIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your 
attention the fine work and outstanding public service of Dr. James 
Willis of Apple Valley, CA. Jim, a dedicated professional and longtime 
community activist, is retiring after a 33-year career in private 
dental practice.
  Jim began his career as a private practitioner in San Bernardino 
following his graduation from the University of Southern California 
School of Dentistry in 1962. After 5 years of success, he joined three 
other dentists in founding Wildwood Dental Group, one of the first 
group dental practices on the west coast. Working with his partners, 
Jim oversaw the general management of the practice and developed a 
national inventory tracking system which revolutionized the dental 
profession. He was also instrumental in establishing professional 
guidelines and the development of nationally recognized group practice 
standards. In 1979, Jim sold his group practice share and purchased a 
solo practice in Apple Valley.
  Complementing his professional success, Jim has also been actively 
involved in a number of civil and community-based organizations over 
the years. He is a member of the Tri-County Dental Society, the founder 
and co-chairman of its political action committee, and chairman of the 
public relations committee. Jim is also a founding member and former 3-
year president of the Inland Empire USC Trojan Club, a member of the 
San Bernardino Chamber of Commerce, and a former member of the Lions 
Club. Over the years, Jim has been extremely active in the Youth 
Baseball Program and has served as the volunteer director of the 
Redlands Assistant League for Children for whom he has provided needed 
dental care.
  Jim Willis and I have been friends most of our lives. As youths, we 
spent much time together with family but particularly I remember the 
summers at the local swimming pool and time at the YMCA. All of his 
contemporaries from San Bernardino High School watched with admiration 
as he returned from the Navy to San Bernardino Valley College and, 
after a short stay, went directly to dental school at USC. Now as he 
retires from dentistry we all watch with wonder as he contemplates his 
next career.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, and Jim's many 
friends in recognizing his many fine achievements and selfless 
contributions. Jim's professionalism and dedication is deeply 
appreciated and greatly admired by those who know him. He has touched 
the lives of many people in southern California and it is only fitting 
that the House recognize Jim Willis upon his retirement.


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