[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 21 (Wednesday, February 5, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E129]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    TRIBUTE TO JOHN O'DOHERTY, PRESIDENT, CORONA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN CALVERT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 5, 2003

  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an 
individual whose dedication and contributions to the city of Corona, CA 
are exceptional. Corona has been fortunate to have dynamic and 
dedicated business and community leaders who willingly and unselfishly 
give time and talent to making their communities a better place to live 
and work. John O'Doherty is one of these individuals. On January 11, 
2003, the Corona Chamber of Commerce hosted an Installation and Awards 
Banquet in celebration of John's year as president.
  John has been an invaluable member of the Corona Chamber of Commerce, 
having served as Treasurer, 2nd Vice President, 1st Vice President, 
president Elect and currently, as President. His commitment to 
involvement has set a benchmark for those who follow him. During the 
past year, John has presided over Board, Executive and membership 
meetings as well as attending almost every after-hours activity. He 
prides himself on being involved beyond his direct duties as President. 
In addition to this extensive Chamber event involvement, John became a 
regular at the city council meetings giving a Chamber update to the 
mayor and council members.
  As his tenure as President, John had several noteworthy 
accomplishments. The Chamber grew in membership from 780 members to 
over 900. He also encouraged and participated in the growth and 
expansion of Chamber events such as Good Morning Corona which grew to 
an average attendance in excess of 100 and quarterly Membership Meeting 
Luncheons, which hit the all time high this year with over 320 members 
in attendance. Committee growth was also a legacy of this fine leader 
and under his tutelage, many Committees were motivated to reach 
landmark performance goals. The Chamber also reintroduced the Five P.M. 
Christmas Holiday, expanded the scope of the Business Expo and finely 
tuned the Ambassadors, who assisted many businesses in grand openings, 
open houses and ground breaking ceremonies.
  Under John's exemplary leadership, the Chamber was a visible 
participant in the annual Corona Beautiful program, run through the 
City of Corona's Economic and Redevelopment Department. He also oversaw 
a very successful Casino Night which raised proceeds that went to 
scholarships for high school students in the local area. The Chamber 
also hosted a very successful 13th Annual Corona Night with the Anaheim 
Angels.
  John has set a standard for excellence and commitment that will be 
difficult to duplicate. John's diligent work as the President of the 
Corona Chamber of Commerce has contributed unmeasurably to the 
betterment of the city of Corona. His involvement in the community 
makes me proud to call him a fellow community member, American and 
friend. I know that all of the members of the Chamber are grateful for 
his service and salute him as his term comes to an end. I look forward 
to working with him in the future for the good of our community.

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