[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 156 (Wednesday, December 7, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2476]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO MR. WILLIAM T. POWERS

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                             HON. MARY BONO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 7, 2005

  Mrs. BONO. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize and applaud the 
dedication and tireless service of my dear friend and constituent, Mr. 
William T. Powers. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me today in 
saluting this outstanding American.
  Mr. Powers has had a long and distinguished career within the banking 
community. Following 21 years of employment with the Bank of America, 
Mr. Powers relocated to the desert. He soon saw the realization of his 
professional goal when, in 1993, he joined the First Community Bank of 
the Desert (now Pacific Western Bank) as President and Chief Executive 
Officer. The notable achievements of Mr. Powers' professional career 
are a reflection of his seemingly boundless capacity for hard work and 
service.
  I would like to give special recognition and thanks to Mr. Powers for 
the tremendous community service that he has, and continues to render 
the citizens of the desert. I have personally seen the positive impact 
of his many efforts on the community in which I live. Mr. Powers has 
served as the President of many organizations throughout the years 
including; the American Cancer Society, United Way of the Desert, 
College of the Desert Foundation, Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce, 
Indian Wells Desert Symphony. He has also served as the Director or 
President and Tournament Chairman of the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic 
since 1998.
  Mr. Powers has been joined in his efforts by his lovely wife, Anita, 
who is also a beloved community figure. The Powers' have been partners 
in so many efforts that have greatly enhanced the desert community. 
Together they have raised two children and are the proud grandparents 
of four.
  Mr. Powers stated that the best way he knows how to give back to the 
community is through excellent service and that that philosophy has 
permeated his personal and professional life. I join with my community 
this week in commending and thanking Mr. Powers for his great community 
service as the Boy Scouts of America honor him as the Distinguished 
Citizen of the Year. I encourage my colleagues to join me in 
recognizing and celebrating the many contributions of Mr. William T. 
Powers.

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