[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 43 (Wednesday, March 11, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E637]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE SAINT JOSEPH COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE'S 100TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE DONNELLY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 11, 2009

  Mr. DONNELLY of Indiana. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the 
Chamber of Commerce of St. Joseph County in celebration of its 100th 
anniversary.
  The founding fathers of the Chamber of Commerce realized that as a 
business community their collective actions would have a much greater 
impact than those actions taken individually. In order to make their 
community stronger, both locally and nationally, they would need the 
business community engaged in all areas of commerce.
  Today, the Chamber is immersed in all areas of business, education, 
and legislative affairs, and it continues to deeply involve itself in 
the community at large. This is critical to Saint Joseph County 
residents today, since cities across the land are facing profound 
issues such as unemployment, budget cuts, and an increase in school 
drop-out rates.
  As a response to these challenges, the Chambers of Commerce across 
the country have taken on far more active roles within their 
communities. While still involved in the important networking events 
that encourage collaboration between the current and future generations 
of business professionals, the Chamber's role has become far more 
participatory in the critical issues facing our community. To this 
effect, the Chamber is partnering with the South Bend Community School 
Corporation and government officials, as well as with business and 
community leaders, to lead the school system in a new, dynamic 
direction.
  Two years ago, The Chamber formed the Business Growth Initiative, 
which proactively addresses and resolves key issues that will help 
businesses grow and expand in the city of South Bend. Also, the chamber 
recognized the need to retain and attract young professionals in our 
community. The Young Professionals Network (YPN) was created to help 
address key issues for young professionals living in and relocating to 
the area.
  Many programs have been initiated and conducted with the Chamber 
taking the lead role, such as the Manufacturing Summit, which addressed 
the issue of education and the development of a workforce that is 
technologically advanced; Green Community initiatives, an 
entrepreneurial forum; and the South Bend/Mishawaka Convention and 
Visitors Bureau.
  Whether it is an issue of advanced business, community, or education, 
the Chamber is prepared to make a difference now and for the next 100 
years. They continue to advance their community and help its citizens 
make a difference by allowing their voices to be heard. Consequently, I 
salute the Chamber of Commerce of St. Joseph County on its 100th 
anniversary and wish them continued success.

                          ____________________