(Salem, OR; January 23, 2012 --)The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that Janet Taylor will be honored as the next First Citizen Award recipient.

For the 62nd year, the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce will recognize some of the most talented and accomplished men and women working in Salem who dedicate their time and talents to better our community. Taylor was surprised today during a Past President's meeting at the Salem Chamber with the news.

Janet Taylor, while best known for her work while Mayor of Salem, has spent a lifetime giving back to this community. Her involvement spans from neighborhood associations to the chair of SEDCOR. Even in her "retirement" she continues to be active by serving on the Board of the Oregon African American Museum, the Willamette Heritage Center at the Mill, and the Oregon Historical Society.

Along with the First Citizen, three Distinguished Citizens and an Outstanding Young Professional will be honored at the First Citizen's Awards Banquet to be held March 2, 2012 at the Salem Conference Center. Reservations can be made by calling 503-581-1466 x301 or online at SalemChamber.org.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce is a private 501(c)(6)not-for-profit membership organization which works to ensure a strong local economy where businesses can prosper, and families can live, work, play and shop. The programs and professional staff of the Salem Area Chamber have been recognized nationally, including a 2009 Wall Street Journal feature of the Chamber's innovative web site, SalemChamber.org. The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce advocates for more than 1,200 businesses led by a volunteer board of directors who are dedicated to sustaining Salem's quality of life, and keeping our community and economy vibrant.

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