[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 121 (Friday, September 5, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1728]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN MEMORY OF MR. PAUL SHEPARD

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. MARY BONO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 5, 2003

  Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the memory of a beloved 
member of the Palm Springs community and a dear friend, Mr. Paul 
Shepard.
  This tragic, untimely and unexpected loss will impact not only those 
who knew and loved Paul, but also, the entire desert community. Paul 
was one of those rare and precious individuals who truly made a 
difference in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to meet him, 
and even some who never had that pleasure. He was a leader in the fight 
against AIDS, an accomplished real estate professional, a dedicated 
athlete and an active supporter of numerous charitable causes and 
service organizations.
  Of course, words alone cannot describe the joy that one felt when 
sharing time with Paul. His warmth and encouraging nature were 
instantly conveyed when he would greet you with a smile and hug. A 
remarkably thoughtful person, Paul always seemed to make everyone feel 
that he was completely focused on their interests, whether in personal 
or business relationships.
  As one of the Coachella Valley's most respected and successful 
Realtors, Paul Shepard achieved the kind of professional stature that 
many aspire to but few attain. During his career, he was selected by 
his peers to serve several times as Director and President of the Palm 
Springs Board of Realtors. In addition, he was named ``Realtor of the 
Year'' and served also as the Director for the California Association 
of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.
  However, his business success was only one facet of this talented 
man. Paul used his abilities to help those in our community who were 
truly in need. He was an active member of the Palm Springs Chamber of 
Commerce for more than 25 years, served as a member of the City's Parks 
and Recreation Committee, and on the Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards 
Gala Committee, and was an integral part of the Steve Chase Program 
Committee's yearly success.
  But, perhaps the one organization that was closest to his heart was 
the Desert AIDS Project in Palm Springs. Paul was a tireless and 
passionate advocate for this worthy organization that daily makes lives 
better for those afflicted with this most challenging disease. As a 
testament to his commitment to this organization, the Desert AIDS 
Project has established a special fund in his name. I can think of few 
tributes that would be more fitting.
  I also want to express my condolences and recognize those that Paul 
loved; his life partner of 25 years, Daniel C. Hall, his mother, Jane 
Andrews, and sister, Jackie Cadell, and two brothers, Thom and Steve 
Shepard, along with his stepfather, Gordon Andrews.
  Mr. Speaker, today I stand in honor of my friend Paul Shepard. The 
sadness I feel when I reflect on his passing is softened only by the 
great respect I have for the legacy he leaves after a life fully lived. 
I yield back the balance of my time.

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