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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E162]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HILLSBORO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 125TH ANNIVERSARY
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HON. SUZANNE BONAMICI
of oregon
in the house of representatives
Monday, February 10, 2020
Ms. BONAMICI. Madam Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Hillsboro
Chamber of Commerce, the City of Hillsboro, and Washington County on
the 125th anniversary of the Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce. The City of
Hillsboro has grown from its agrarian roots to emerge as an economic
engine in the State of Oregon.
Since the Hillsboro Chamber was founded in 1895, it has worked
tirelessly with local business and community leaders to bring greater
opportunities to the people of Hillsboro. When the Southern Pacific
Railroad arrived, the ability to export wheat, hops, berries, onions,
and dairy helped expand a commercial district in the community that
eventually led to the formation of the Chamber. The Chamber emerged as
an advocate for farmers and community members and, over time, the
economic prospects of a once sleepy agrarian town expanded. During the
Great Depression, the Hillsboro Chamber committed itself to unifying
the community in difficult financial times, helping to lift spirits
with celebrations such as Happy Days, Hillsboro Bargain Days, and the
Harvest Festival. The Chamber also helped the local economy survive by
partnering with the City of Hillsboro to administer funds that were
used to employ workers to expand runways at the airport, build a post
office and hospital, and improve a municipal water system. These early
investments in infrastructure have helped make Hillsboro and the
surrounding region a hub for the semiconductor and high technology
industry. Silicon Forest, as it is known today, will continue to lead
the way in development of new technologies and innovative thinking.
Even with the expansion of the economy and growth of modern industry,
the Chamber has continued to support small business owners and
community members, making sure they have the opportunity to participate
in the growing economy. In 1995, The Hillsboro Chamber created the
School to Career Program, which has developed an important workforce
pipeline to connect high school students from schools throughout
Washington County to career opportunities in their communities. By
connecting employers to educators and community leaders, the Hillsboro
Chamber is also at the forefront of rethinking post-secondary
opportunities for its community members.
The 125th anniversary of the Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce is a
testament to how a collaborative commitment between multiple
stakeholders makes a community better for everyone. Although Hillsboro
and the surrounding region look very different now, the spirit of
collaboration and seeking opportunity in Hillsboro remains the same.
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