From Bend, Oregon to Washington DC

In 2003, I was fortunate enough to participate in a Congressional Luncheon that honored Small Business Advocates, as well as a luncheon that saluted Women in Business. The guest speaker was the Vice President of the United States and spoke of the champion efforts that are made to promote the success of small business's across America. A few months later, we actually garnered the attention of the Small Business Administration, when Bend, Oregon was selected as one of 10 cities nationally to kick off the SBA's 50th year celebration tour.

Fast forward to 03/16/09, where President Obama announced the enhancements to the SBA loan program, which would temporarily eliminate SBA fees, increase the guarantee to the lender and a few other items.

While these changes are a good step in the right direction, there are still greater underlying issues that need to be solved, in order to actually get SBA loan funds directly into the hands of the small business owner.

I recently have contacted Senator Wyden's office in Washington DC, and have an opportunity to unveil my common sense proposal to cut to the real problems and provide a solution.

My ultimate goal, is to present my solution to the US Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship and continue my efforts to advocate on behalf of the small business owners.

Stay tuned, and of course.... call me with any loan needs in Oregon!

Cathie Hendrix