“I am speaking today to praise a group that helps businesses on Long Island. They have been around for 100 years. They help businesses grow and create jobs. I am recognizing their leaders. They have done a good job helping Long Island. I hope they keep doing a good job for the next 100 years.”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, tonight, I am honored to host a Special Order in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the Long Island Association. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an institution that has helped shape Long Island's economy, strengthened its communities, and championed its future for the past century. For 100 years, the Long Island Association has served as the leading voice of Long Island's business community, bringing together employers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, educators, labor leaders, and public officials around a shared mission: ensuring Long Island remains one of the best places in America to live, work, raise a family, and build a business. Founded in 1926 as the Long Island Chamber of Commerce, the organization emerged during a period of tremendous growth with an ambitious mission: to promote Long Island's unique strengths and expand economic opportunity throughout the region. That mission has endured, even as Long Island has evolved from a collection of agricultural communities and seasonal destinations into one of the Nation's most dynamic regional economies. Today, Long Island is home to world-class manufacturers, innovative life science companies, internationally recognized research institutions, thriving small businesses, and vibrant downtowns. Throughout that transformation, the Long Island Association has been a steadfast advocate for policies that encourage investment, innovation, and job creation. Whether advancing critical infrastructure projects, strengthening workforce development, or helping businesses navigate extraordinary challenges--from the aftermath of September 11 to Superstorm Sandy to the COVID-19 pandemic--the LIA has consistently demonstrated thoughtful leadership and an unwavering commitment to our region. Its work continues today as Long Island confronts many of the challenges that will define our next century, including affordability, housing, infrastructure, energy reliability, and maintaining a business climate that allows employers of every size to succeed. New York's exceptionally high tax burden only makes those challenges more difficult. Meeting those challenges is essential, not only for today's economy but for ensuring that future generations can continue to build successful careers and rewarding lives on Long Island. Mr. Speaker, I will also recognize the outstanding leadership of the Long Island Association, who are joining us in the gallery this evening: Chairman Lawrence J. Waldman; Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Stacey Sikes; and members of the board of directors, including Billy Haugland, Katherine Heaviside, and Luis Vazquez. Their leadership and the dedication of countless other board members, staff, volunteers, and business leaders over the past century have positioned the Long Island Association for continued success in the years ahead. As someone privileged to represent New York's First Congressional District, I know that Long Island's greatest asset has always been its people--the entrepreneurs, workers, educators, researchers, veterans, community leaders, and innovators whose talent and determination make our region exceptional. For a century, the Long Island Association has brought those voices together in pursuit of a stronger regional economy and a brighter future. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Long Island Association on this extraordinary centennial anniversary. On behalf of the United States House of Representatives and the people of New York's First Congressional District, I thank the association, its leadership, its members, and everyone who has contributed to this remarkable legacy. May its second century be as successful as its first. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Gillen).
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