[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 7]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 9133]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




CONGRATULATING THE MADISON COUNTY, OHIO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ON ITS 50TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARY JO KILROY

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 30, 2009

  Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate the Madison 
County Chamber of Commerce on the celebration of its 50th anniversary. 
The Chamber of Commerce has been extremely important in building and 
growing hundreds of businesses in Madison County. At this significant 
moment in time, with much volatility and uncertainty in our economy, it 
is important to recognize the role that local chambers of commerce 
play.
  The Madison County Chamber of Commerce's purpose is to serve the 
businesses and entrepreneurs in the local community. The Chamber plays 
an integral role in bringing new ideas and jobs to the area while 
sustaining small businesses and working on their behalf. Small 
businesses are the backbone of our economy. They have continued to 
employ American workers through some of the toughest times in history. 
These businesses stay true to their employees and do everything they 
can to positively impact their local community.
  The Madison County Chamber of Commerce is working hard to ensure jobs 
stay at home in Central Ohio. Just last week the Chamber of Commerce 
announced nearly 15,000 jobs are available in Madison County. These 
competitive jobs require high levels of training; with my support and 
the support of the Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to providing 
the proper resources to equip our workforce with the tools they need to 
prosper in the 21st Century work environment.
  Madam Speaker, I wish that our work here in Washington did not cause 
me to miss tonight's gathering. As the Madison County Chamber of 
Commerce begins its anniversary celebration, I am reminded of the 
importance of Main St. in our national economy and dedicate my efforts 
to continuing a partnership that benefits central Ohio.
  I want to thank all of the businesses that contribute so much to 
Madison County and Central Ohio. I want to specifically acknowledge the 
Chamber's current leadership: Executive Director Sean Hughes, President 
of the Board of Directors Tim Suter, 1st Vice President Brenda Adams, 
2nd Vice President Joan Denes, 3rd Vice President Pamela Peterman and 
Secretary-Treasurer Sarah Hankins-Miller. May the next 50 years be 
prosperous and successful. I ask that my colleagues join me to 
acknowledge and celebrate this milestone with my friends at the Madison 
Chamber of Commerce.

                          ____________________