Having already gained statewide recognition as New York’s Chamber of the Year, the Orange County Chamber of Commerce recently earned praise on a much larger stage – the United States Congress. U.S. Rep. Patrick Ryan brought federal recognition to the organization when he rose to “honor and congratulate” the chamber before the governing body in Washington, D.C. Ryan, whose 18th congressional district includes Orange County, noted that the Business Council of New York had named the business advocacy organization the 2025 Chamber of the Year.
“Under the outstanding leadership of President and CEO Heather Bell, the Chamber continues to set a high standard for what it means to strengthen businesses and improve the experience of doing business in New York state,” Ryan read in comments enshrined in the Congressional Record for the 119th Congress.
Ryan also presented a plaque with the comments to Bell at the chamber’s Choice Gala on Feb. 28 in The Barn at Villa Venezia, Middletown.
“It is an incredible honor to hear our initiatives and our hard work recognized before the United States Congress,” said Bell. “We are deeply grateful for the Congressional Record tribute and proud to serve the businesses and residents of Orange County every day. This achievement belongs to our dedicated members, Board of Directors, community partners and the entire Orange County business community who work tirelessly to strengthen our local economy.”
Ryan’s comments in the Congressional Record note that Orange County Chamber of Commerce membership had doubled since 2021 and now includes more than 1,200 businesses and organizations.
“I have seen firsthand the way that this team shows up for our small businesses, listens to their concerns and works to create real opportunity across Orange County,” his comments read. “When our local businesses succeed, our families succeed, and our entire community moves forward together.”
The Orange County Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting economic growth and prosperity in Orange County, New York. Through advocacy, networking and community engagement, the Chamber serves as a catalyst for business success and a champion for the local business community. Learn more at orangeny.com.
