Statement on the Passing of Bob Bartz from Rep. Vern Buchanan

WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan released the following statement on the passing of Bob Bartz, president of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce:

“Bob’s leadership and positive contributions to our community span decades. In that time, he made Manatee County a better place for business, for residents and for visitors. Bob exemplified the spirit of public service and will be missed.”

Mr. Bartz became president of the Manatee Chamber in July 1982. He was recognized by his peers and community many times, and served the region in volunteer capacities beyond his Chamber role.

In 2007, Buchanan entered into the official Congressional Record the following recognition of the Manatee Chamber and Mr. Bartz:

HONORING MANATEE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

HON. VERN BUCHANAN of Florida in the House of Representatives Thursday, September 6, 2007

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce for winning the American Chamber of Commerce Executive's, ACCE, 2007 Chamber of the Year Award, the nation's only award recognizing the expanding role chambers play in strengthening area businesses and their community.

By winning this award, the Manatee chamber has demonstrated its organizational strength and success in community leadership by being the best in the nation in its category for financial and membership growth as well as making a significant impact on important community issues, including economic development, education, transportation, healthcare and cultural activities.

The Manatee chamber was also named the 2007 Florida Chamber of the Year by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals for the third time--making it the only chamber to have won this prestigious award more than twice.

These awards are a tribute to the knowledge, leadership skills, and management effectiveness of chamber President Bob Bartz and to the quality of the work done by the organization's staff and the spirit and involvement of its volunteers, including the chamber's officers and Board of Directors.

I congratulate the Manatee Chamber of Commerce and its members for these impressive awards. I recognize their many accomplishments, and I appreciate their successful efforts to help businesses succeed and enhance the lives of Manatee County residents.