[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 65 (Tuesday, April 14, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E320]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE GREATER STOCKTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ON ITS 125TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOSH HARDER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 14, 2026

  Mr. HARDER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
celebrate the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce as it marks 125 
years of service to the Central Valley community.
  Founded on February 21, 1901, the Chamber has long served as the 
authoritative voice for thousands of local businesspeople, championing 
economic growth, civic leadership, and regional collaboration. For over 
a century, it has played a central role in shaping Stockton's economic 
and civic landscape.
  The Chamber's legacy is defined by bold and lasting contributions. In 
the early 1920s, it led the successful effort to bring the College of 
the Pacific, now the University of the Pacific, to Stockton, bringing 
an institution of higher learning to the city and strengthening its 
educational and civic life. Shortly thereafter, the Chamber helped 
champion the ``32 Feet To The Sea'' campaign, culminating in the 
creation of the Port of Stockton in 1933, the first deep-water port in 
California, and a cornerstone of the region's economy.
  In more recent years, the Chamber continued its strong advocacy by 
ensuring that the California Health Care Facility in Stockton was 
developed in a way that benefits the community. Through its efforts, 
the Chamber secured local jobs, infrastructure improvements, and 
significant investments in education and workforce development.
  The Chamber is also home to award-winning programs that strengthen 
the community, including Leadership Stockton, one of the oldest 
leadership programs west of the Rockies, the long-running ATHENA Awards 
honoring outstanding women, and the internationally recognized Green 
Team San Joaquin.
  For 125 years, the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce has 
demonstrated a steadfast commitment to strengthening businesses and 
uplifting the Central Valley.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Greater 
Stockton Chamber of Commerce for its remarkable legacy of service and 
to congratulate the Chamber on this milestone anniversary.

                          ____________________