[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 87 (Thursday, May 22, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S3112]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            RECOGNIZING THE ROWAN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

 Mr. BUDD. Mr. President, on March 19, 1925, the Rowan County 
Chamber of Commerce held its first annual meeting. For 100 years, the 
chamber has played a vital role in the growth and development of Rowan 
County, serving over 800 members and representing 60,000 employees.
  Rowan County has a strong history of entrepreneurship and innovation, 
serving as the birthplace of some of North Carolina's most iconic 
businesses. In 1917, during a nationwide sugar shortage, the popular 
cherry soda Cheerwine was first crafted here. By the 1920s, it has 
become a favorite soft drink across the region, cementing its place as 
a symbol of Southern culture for over a century now. Likewise, in 1957, 
a modest local grocery store called Food Town opened its doors in Rowan 
County. Just a few decades later, it rebranded as Food Lion, and now is 
a household name with over 1,100 stores across 10 States, serving 
millions of families across the Southeast.
  Since its founding, the Rowan Chamber has been a driving force behind 
the county's economic growth and business success. As a hub for 
collaboration, the chamber brings together businesses and community 
leaders, harnessing their collective expertise to tackle local 
challenges and advance economic development throughout the region.
  From the beginning, the Rowan Chamber has been at the forefront of 
prioritizing community development. In their first annual report, in 
1925, the chamber celebrated its efforts that brought Catawba College 
to Salisbury, promoted a new creamery for farmers to produce dairy 
products, and advocated for better roads. In more recent 
accomplishments, the chamber has been at the forefront of business 
advocacy, workforce and leadership development, and funding for 
transportation and education. The Rowan Chamber has also successfully 
advocated for infrastructure projects that have led to increased 
economic development across the county. The Yadkin River Bridge 
Project, I-85 four-lane expansion, the Old Beatty Ford Road exit, the 
Rowan County Airport expansion, and the development of the Paul E. 
Fisher Gateway Building are just some of the accomplishments that have 
been made possible by the chamber's concentrated efforts.
  As a small business owner, myself, and a member of the Senate 
Commerce and Small Business Committees, I appreciate the efforts of 
President Elaine Spalding, the board of directors, and everyone at the 
Rowan Chamber of Commerce for their work to support business leaders 
and keep North Carolina an attractive place to live and work.

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