MRPC News Release
March 28, 2006
For immediate release
For more information, contact:
Richard Cavender or Bonnie J. Prigge, (573) 265-2993
REP. JOANN EMERSON RECEIVES 2006 CONGRESSIONAL PARTNERSHIP
AWARD FOR COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT
MRPC Presents NADO Award
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. JoAnn Emerson (R-MO) was named as a recipient of a 2006 Congressional Partnership Award today from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for outstanding leadership in promoting federal community, economic and transportation development programs. The biennial awards program recognizes federal lawmakers who have demonstrated exceptional support for federal policies and programs that encourage regional solutions and approaches to improving local services, economic conditions and community prosperity.
The nomination was made by NADO member, the Meramec Regional Planning Commission, a voluntary council of local governments located in St. James.
NADO President Kenneth Jones stated, “Rep. Emerson is a true leader who has displayed an unwavering commitment to providing new economic opportunities for our nation’s local communities. Most importantly, Rep. Emerson understands that federal programs for basic infrastructure, small business development and comprehensive economic development planning are essential for the long-term competitiveness of our local communities.”
The biennial awards program recognizes members of Congress that have displayed strong support of regional development polices. Winners were selected base on their support of NADO’s national legislative priorities, such as reauthorization of the Economic Development Administration (EDA), strengthening the role of rural local officials in transportation planning and supporting a regional approach to homeland security and emergency management planning and preparedness.
Building on nearly four decades of experience, the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) serves as the national voice of regional development organizations primarily serving small metropolitan and rural America. NADO helps its members pursue their goals by providing effective federal advocacy, informative training and research, and unmatched opportunities for professional networking and growth.
Cutline: Presenting the NADO award to Rep. Emerson in her Washington, D.C., office is Marcus Maggard of Salem, MRPC board member; Gary Brown, mayor of Salem and chairman of Meramec Regional Planning Commission; and Richard Cavender, executive director of MRPC.