[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 19]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 26099]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




        PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE ORANGE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MAURICE D. HINCHEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 1, 2007

  Mr. HINCHEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Orange County 
Chamber of Commerce in Montgomery, New York as it celebrates two 
significant events in the history of its organization. The Chamber is 
marking the 10th anniversary of the merger of Orange County's two major 
chamber organizations, which united to form the current Chamber of 
Commerce on this day in 1997. Additionally, the Chamber is 
commemorating the 125th anniversary of the formation of one of the 
predecessor chambers in 1882.
  In recent years, Orange County has consistently ranked as one of the 
fastest growing counties in New York State. As this growth has 
occurred, the Orange County Chamber of Commerce has provided critical 
leadership in creating and supporting an environment in which business 
will succeed while also working to enhance the quality of life 
throughout Orange County's communities. The Chamber continues to serve 
as a consistent and effective advocate for businesses throughout Orange 
County and the Hudson Valley region.
  Through their committed efforts and diligence, the Board of Directors 
and staff at the Chamber have expanded its membership to nearly 2,400 
businesses and individuals, making it one of the ten largest in the 
State of New York and the largest between Long Island and Albany. This 
strong network of community and business leaders coupled with the 
technical support, expertise and promotional services provided by the 
Chamber has contributed to the ongoing expansion of business 
opportunities in Orange County.
  Madam Speaker, I am delighted to salute the Orange County Chamber of 
Commerce on the anniversary of these important milestones. I'd like to 
congratulate Chamber President John A. D'Ambrosio, outgoing Board 
President Kunwar Nagpal, and incoming Board President Jim Smith for 
their leadership and hard work. I'd also like to recognize the Board of 
Directors, staff, and members of the Chamber for their dedicated 
efforts to make Orange County, New York a better place to live, work 
and visit.

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