Administrator

The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce congratulated Congressman Harry Teague for receiving the Spirit of Enterprise Award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in recognition of his pro-business voting record during the 111th Congress.  The award, announced last week by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, acknowledges Congressman Teague's commitment and dedication to promoting small businesses and fighting for their interests in Congress.

"Rep. Harry Teague has shown a great deal of commitment to the citi­zens of District 2 with his votes over the last year," said Joel Courtney, communication and leadership di­rector for the chamber. "The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce is proud to have a congressman rep­resenting southern New Mexico that is dedicated to supporting the busi­ness community."

Eligibility for the award is based on how Members of Congress vote on key business issues, which the Chamber outlines in its annual publication How They Voted. These designated "key votes" are recorded floor votes on issues established as priorities on which the Chamber communicates its position prior to the vote. Those members of Congress who support the Chamber's position on at least 70% of those votes receive the award.

According to the scorecard, Rep. Teague maintained a 73% rating with the Chamber this year and collectively holds a 73% ranking during his tenure in Congress.

"As a small business man in New Mexico's oil and gas industry for over 30 years, I learned about the critical role of small businesses in our local economies, and those lessons continue to guide my work today," Teague said.  "Southern New Mexico's small business owners are the backbone of our local economy and will lead us to economic prosperity.  I am proud to accept the Spirit of Enterprise Award today and I will proudly continue fighting for southern New Mexico's small businesses."

The Chamber scored Congress on seven Senate and 15 House votes in 2009, including the economic stimulus package, legislation to promote the U.S. as a travel destination abroad, and both the House and Senate healthcare reform bills.

To view a complete list of the 2009 Spirit of Enterprise recipients, please visit www.uschamber.com/soe.