Washington, D.C.- This year Third District Representative Walter B. Jones has been honored by the Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC), the oldest and largest regional economic development association in North America. Congressman Jones was one of only 123 legislators named to SEDC’s 2005 Honor Roll of Legislative Achievement in Economic Development.

“SEDC’s territory we call the ‘American South’ has seen tremendous growth in jobs and capital investments from new and expanding businesses in recent years,” said SEDC Chairman Vic Lafont. “This success is due in large part to the efforts of our members, their communities and states, and also to the hard work of our legislators in the 108th Congress. Without their continual support of Federal initiatives directed at helping us remain competitive, we would not be as successful.”

“This is our ninth year of presenting these awards and each year the SEDC Honor Roll continues to grow in prestige,” said Gene Stinson, SEDC president. “We are seeing more members of Congress recognize this achievement as a benchmark of where they want to be in continuing economic expansion in the region. Positive economic growth and expansion are of tremendous benefit for communities and everyone wants to be a part of ensuring it continues.”

For additional information or to schedule an interview with Congressman Walter B. Jones please contact Kathleen Joyce at (202) 225-3415.