Capitol Words a project of the Sunlight Foundation

Rep. Lois Capps

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Carpinteria Valley Chamber of Commerce in my Congressional District on its 100th Anniversary. The Carpinteria Valley Chamber of Commerce was chartered in 1912 to serve local businesses by a group of visionary community leaders, many of whose descendants still live and work in Carpinteria.

The original charter states that Carpinteria ``had good churches, schools and social condition, plus a population of 500, which was sure to grow with the great inducements of city and rural life, in addition to the magnificent mountain and ocean scenery,'' qualities that continue to draw people to this treasured community on California's South Coast.

Over the last century, the Carpinteria Valley Chamber of Commerce has diligently served the Carpinteria Valley business community through its commitment to developing strong and viable local businesses by providing opportunities for business education and networking, promoting tourism, and advocating on behalf of business interests. They have also worked closely with the City of Carpinteria to create strong business outreach and community support.

This Chamber is a valued organization of businesses united to create a strong local economy and a positive quality of life by representing business to government, promoting the community, providing networking opportunities and supporting a sustainable future for business and economic development.

Mr. Speaker, it has been my honor to represent this outstanding group of business and community leaders over the years. Again, I congratulate them on a century of achievements and outstanding contributions to our community, enhancing the life of all Carpinterians and helping our local businesses stay strong.