Hoyer and Business Leaders Discuss Keys to Success in Prince George's County
"I appreciate the opportunity to meet with the Prince County Economic Development Corporation and am always impressed to witness the tremendous work they are doing to give minority business owners the resources they need to grow their business and be successful," said Congressman Hoyer today when meeting with the Prince George's County EDC and welcoming their new president Kwasi Holman.
"The business community must be engaged in the educational system and I think that should be your principal objective. Our community will not succeed if our system of education is not trusted as one that will give our children a quality education and a solid platform from which to thrive," added Representative Hoyer.
Congressman Hoyer also met with the Prince George's County Chamber of Commerce to talk to them about the issues facing Congress that are important to the business community in Prince George's County; he relayed to them the importance of engaging with the educational system as well. Representative Hoyer also discussed the importance of fiscal responsibility, and funding for critical transportation infrastructure improvements he has secured at the federal level that will benefit the County including funding for a new interchange at Branch Avenue and Brandywine Road, repairing Frederick Douglass Bridge and the South Capitol Street entrance to the Capital from Southern Prince George's County, and making upgrades to Indian Head highway.
"The fiscal policies being pursued by this Administration and supported by Congressional Republicans are not only reckless and irresponsible, they run counter to the values and interests of the business community in Prince George's County," Hoyer said. "The $5.6 trillion budget surplus that President Bush inherited when he took office has turned into a projected deficit over the next 10 years of $4 trillion, largely due to the fact that they are unwilling to pay for tax cuts that will increase the deficit, drive the nation further into debt, and force our children and grandchildren to pay this generation's bills. It is imperative that we face the fiscal reality that now confronts us and not enact policies that increase the deficit and drive us deeper into debt," Hoyer added.
"This is why the role of the Prince George's County Chamber of Commerce is critical. Prince George's County relies on leaders like you with the vision to put in place policies that make this community one of the most attractive in Maryland to live and raise a family. I applaud your efforts to promote an understanding of and an appreciation for the issues of concern to this business community.
"I value our shared commitment to establish a strong dialogue between the business community and your government. Using government resources to leverage and engage the powerful energy of the private sector is a good formula for success and the right vision for Prince George's County.
"I look forward to working with you as a continuing partner to bring you whatever resources I can from the Federal Government to improve the quality of life for the business community and all Prince George's County residents."
Richard Reed, Chairman of the Prince George's County Chamber of Commerce said, "Congressman Steny Hoyer has been a tremendous friend to the Chamber and to the County. He has paid more attention to us, and has brought more financial assets and investment, than almost any other elected official."
Congressman Hoyer also visited the Presidio Corporation and toured the company with founders Kristine Cruikshank and Ralph Cruikshank, and President Rudy Casaola. Presidio has over 160 employees and played a primary role in integrating 92 U.S. Air National Guard bases shortly after September 11, 2001 to support our nation's defense. They have received awards for being the largest woman-owned company in the Washington, DC region and as one of the top women-owned businesses in the nation.
"I was pleased to see the work being done by the Presidio Corporation today and I look forward to watching this impressive company continue to grow, bringing valuable technological resources to our country and a meaningful economic benefit to our County," said Congressman Hoyer.
# # #