[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 89 (Tuesday, June 15, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1109]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            IN LOVING MEMORY OF WILLIAM ``BILL'' ELKINS, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MAXINE WATERS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 15, 2010

  Ms. WATERS. Madam Speaker, I submit the following:
  To Eleanor and Family,
  I am sorry that I cannot be with you at the home-going services of 
your dear husband, father, grandfather, and my good friend, Bill.
  I join with the many other elected officials and community leaders 
who mourn his loss. Bill Elkins was well known, respected, and loved by 
the many who knew, worked with and understood his undying commitment to 
African Americans in this city.
  Bill spent the best part of his years in service to the late great 
Mayor Tom Bradley. He served as a liaison for Civil Rights 
Organizations, Ministers, Fraternities and Sororities and elected 
officials representing Mayor Bradley. Bill was all about equal 
opportunity and participation by all people. He truly was responsible 
for keeping the community informed and working closely with ministers 
helping them to their congregation engaged and helping to solve 
community problems.
  I could share many stories on how we spent countless hours planning, 
strategizing, organizing and encouraging people to ``Get Out the 
Vote''. We don't see that kind of dedication anymore. But for those of 
us who were fortunate enough to work with him we learned what it meant 
to be truly committed to the community, he inspired us all.
  Eleanor, your sisters in BWF, the organization that you helped to 
found, stand with at this difficult moment for you and your family. You 
and the family can rest assured that Bill did more than his share of 
service in this community. His work is recorded in the history of this 
city and now it is time for him to rest in peace. He will be sorely 
missed by so many.

                          ____________________