Tribute to Richard M. Milanovich, Former Chairman, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

Union Bank in Palm Springs will pay tribute Friday to Richard M. Milanovich, former tribal chairman for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who died in March 2012 at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage.

The late chairman's family, friends and members of the Agua Caliente Tribe are expected to attend the ceremony, which will include dedication of a black granite bench in his honor, according to bank officials.

The bench will feature a photo of Chairman Milanovich, an inscription in his memory, and an adage: "Through you, my ancient people, I am."

Milanovich "epitomized excellence in his tireless efforts to enhance the community through tribal business projects, partnerships with local organizations and governments, and through the tribe's many philanthropic contributions," Union Bank officials said in an announcement.

The ceremony is for invitees only, according to bank officials. It's planned to begin at 9 a.m. Sept. 27 at Union Bank's Palm Springs branch, 500 S. Indian Canyon Drive.