30th Annual Congressional Awards Reception Honors Members of Congress and Small Business Owners

WASHINGTON, May 9, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Small Business Council of America (SBCA), a national nonprofit organization representing the interests of privately-held and family-owned organizations on tax, employee benefit and health care matters, held its 30^th annual Congressional Awards Reception on May 8, 2013 at the U.S. Capitol.

Senator Mary Landrieu received the Special Congressional Appreciation Award in recognition of her small business leadership in the Senate. As Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Senator Landrieu demonstrates a deep understanding of the issues facing small businesses and their owners and effectively works to solve those problems.  

Senator Rob Portman received the Special Congressional Appreciation Award in recognition of his willingness to tackle difficult and technical tax and employee benefit issues as a member of the Senate Finance Committee. During his tenure in the House of Representatives, Senator Portman was also instrumental in shoring up the qualified retirement plan system to make it work in the small business context. 

Congressman Dave Camp received the Congressional Award for his commitment to comprehensive tax reform. As Chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means, Congressman Camp has been committed to engaging stakeholders like the SBCA in the tax reform process. 

Jordan Wagner of Los Angeles, California, received the Humanitarian of the Year Award in recognition of his work as Executive Director of Generosity Water. Generosity Water works to fund and oversee the establishment of clean and renewable water sources in developing countries. "What makes Jordan special is that at such a young age, he has learned the importance of helping others in need," said Neil Carrey, SBCA Director and founder of the Humanitarian Award. 

Anthony Sblendorio of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, received the Small Business of the Year Award in recognition of the remarkable success of his company Back to Nature Home and Garden as a leader in ecologically sustainable landscape architecture.  Since its founding, Back to Nature has grown into a multi-faceted company that is behind some of the most innovative projects in New Jersey.  "What I find unique about Anthony is his steadfast desire to educate society about the importance of ecology," wrote Governor David Patterson.

SOURCE Small Business Council of America

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