[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 12, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E122]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING THELMA CASTILLO

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LISA C. McCLAIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 12, 2025

  Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Thelma 
Castillo for her decade of service as President and Chief Executive 
Officer of the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce. Since 2014, Thelma 
has worked tirelessly to strengthen the Chamber's role as a champion 
for businesses in Michigan's Thumb region. Under her leadership, the 
Chamber experienced record growth, expanded its advocacy efforts, and 
enhanced its ability to support local businesses. Her impact has been 
profound, and her legacy will be felt for years to come.
  A highly accomplished professional, Thelma brought over 18 years of 
chamber experience to her role, having previously served at the Detroit 
Regional Chamber, one of the largest and most influential chambers in 
the country. Her expertise in workforce initiatives, leadership 
development, economic advocacy, and operational excellence positioned 
her as a transformative leader in the Blue Water business community. 
Throughout her career, she secured over $15 million in grants, funding 
programs that supported business expansion, workforce training, and 
economic development. One of her most notable initiatives was ``Intern 
in Michigan,'' a statewide program designed to retain young 
professionals in the region through internship opportunities.
  Thelma's leadership extends beyond the Chamber, as she served on 
numerous boards and organizations dedicated to economic growth, 
workforce development, and civic engagement. She was actively involved 
with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Institute for Organizational 
Management, the American Red Cross of Southeastern Michigan, the Legal 
Aid and Defender Association, the Hispanic Business Alliance, and the 
Workforce Innovations in Economic Development initiative. Her 
commitment to collaboration and strategic planning helped forge strong 
partnerships between businesses, educational institutions, and 
government entities.
  Beyond her professional accomplishments, Thelma is known for her 
passion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the community. She is 
a devoted wife to Len Frisch, a Detroit firefighter, and a loving 
mother to her son, JJ Dominguez.
  Mr. Speaker, Thelma Castillo's leadership, dedication, and vision 
have strengthened the Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce and the 
broader business community. Her contributions have paved the way for 
continued economic growth and prosperity in the region. I thank her for 
her years of service and wish her all the best in this next chapter of 
her life.

                          ____________________