Send Page to a Friend Council honors Powell for legislative work   By Rebekah Metzler The Daily News Tribune   BOSTON—Richard Powell, chief of staff for Sen. Cynthia Creem, D-Newton, has been honored for his legislative work on behalf of the Jewish community. The Jewish Community Relations Council presented Powell, a staffer with Creem for her full eight years on Beacon Hill, with the award Tuesday at a celebration at the Boston Barr Association offices.  Most recently, Powell successfully worked on a law that prevents life insurance companies from discriminating against people traveling to Israel and other countries that are viewed as dangerous.  Powell said that anyone in Creem's office might have received the award for their work on behalf of constituents and the Jewish community.  "It was nice of them to have that (staff) award and I was very appreciative in receiving it," Powell said.  Robert Beal, an official with the council, said the awards were presented to people who "went above and beyond to protect members of the Jewish community." Creem received an award from the council in 2001. The event included appearances by more than 20 representatives and senators, including Lt. Gov. Tim Murray, Senate President Robert Travaglini, D-Boston, and House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi, D-Boston. Travaglini joked that it was great to see so many senators and that their attendance would be rewarded during the upcoming budget.  Powell was surprised by the high attendance.  "When I saw the magnitude of the event, it really made me feel good," Powell said.  In addition to his job as chief of staff for Creem, Powell became a selectman in Sharon this past May.