[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 103 (Thursday, July 22, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1465]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE KOREAN CHICAGO KOREAN AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 22, 2004

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege today to recognize the 
contributions of Chicago's Korean American Chamber of Commerce toward 
preserving the glorious heritage and culture of Chicago's Korean 
community, on the occasion of its 9th Annual Korean Street Festival.
  The Korean Chamber of Commerce continues to be an integral part of 
the Korean Community in Chicago. As a strong advocate for commercial, 
financial, and industrial member rights, the Chamber has played an 
essential role in local Korean American economic and community 
development. From educating members on renewing and issuing licenses, 
to aiding small businesses and forming cooperatives for purchasing 
products, its services have been indispensable to the greater Chicago 
area.
  Among the valued contributions of the Chicago Korean American Chamber 
of Commerce is their joint effort with the Korean Street Festival 
Committee for the annual street festival. The Annual Korean Festival on 
August 14th and 15th will showcase the rich culture and traditions of 
the Chicago Korean Community, while celebrating the Centennial of 
Korean immigration.
  Since 1996 the Korean Street Festival Committee has planned its 
celebration to enrich Chicago's summer season. Last year's display of 
arts, cuisine, music and dance performances, and variety of 
merchandise, brought over 40,000 local Chicago residents and travelers 
from around the Midwest region.
  The Chicago Korean American Chamber of Commerce has consistently 
demonstrated its commitment to keeping the Korean heritage alive in 
Chicago. Their various programs and services all contribute to the 
success of the organization, and I applaud those who work and volunteer 
their time to continue this important mission. But, the Korean Street 
Festival is much more than good food and entertainment. It is a chance 
to remember and honor all of the hard work and accomplishments made by 
the Korean Community. It is through this awareness in which younger 
generations can pass on the traditions and values of Korea.
  Mr. Speaker, I am honored on behalf of the Fifth District, and indeed 
all of Chicago, to call attention to all of the meaningful work 
occurring at the Chicago Korean American Chamber of Commerce at the 
time of its 9th Annual Korean Street Festival. I wish them a glorious 
festival and a thriving future in Chicago.

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