[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 129 (Thursday, July 22, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E797]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                        HONORING MELISSA FULTON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 22, 2021

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Melissa Fulton to recognize her substantial contributions to our 
community through her remarkable career in the Lakeport Chamber of 
Commerce and her extensive service to Lake County.
  Melissa was born and raised in Harvey, Illinois, but moved to 
Lakeport California with her husband John in 1989. That same year she 
joined the Lakeport Chamber of Commerce where she became an active 
volunteer. After a search committee recognized her impeccable 
leadership and ability, she was recruited to fulfill the positions of 
Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer for the Lakeport Chamber 
of Commerce. She has been serving in these positions for 27 years with 
only a brief break to serve as Advertising Director of the Lake County 
Record-Bee and the Clear Lake Observer-American newspapers.
  Melissa holds a passion for selfless service as demonstrated through 
her leadership in her career and in multiple community groups. This 
includes serving on the Board of Directors of the Lake County Economic 
Development Corporation, the Lake County Rodeo Association, and the 
Lakeport Main Street Association. Additionally, Melissa was a past 
President of the Lakeport Rotary club, where she facilitated 
fundraising efforts to support the painting and restoration of the 
Library Park Gazebo.
  Her invaluable contributions and achievements to the community 
include transforming the Lakeport Chamber of Commerce to the Lake 
County Chamber of Commerce, creating the annual Destination 
publication, designing and constructing the annual Lake County exhibits 
for the California State fair, and establishing the certified tourism 
Ambassador program in Lake County. Melissa has been described by 
colleagues and community members as a mentor, an instigator, and above 
all a Lake County treasure who will leave a legacy for herself as a 
passionate and determined advocate for Lake County.
  Madam Speaker, Melissa Fulton's achievements will leave a tremendous 
impact in Lake County for generations to come. Therefore, it is fitting 
and proper that we honor her here today.

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