Mike Pence: “I rise today to call the House's attention to our country's most vital economic sector, our small businesses. Each year…”

“I rise today to call the House's attention to our country's most vital economic sector, our small businesses. Each year, for the past 38 years, the President has issued a proclamation calling for the celebration of National Small Business Week. This year, National Small Business Week, which is sponsored by the SBA, is being held right now. Mr. Speaker, this year's celebration will honor the estimated 25.5 million small businesses in America that employ more than half the country's private work force, create 3 out of every 4 new jobs, and generate a majority of American innovations. Small Business Week also recognizes small business owners all across America for their personal achievements and contributions to our economy. From this group, in Indiana, the Indiana Small Business Person of the Year is Joseph A. Beckman. He is the owner of Home Lumber and Glenlord Lumber Company. This a retail lumber and land development concern that has grown steadily under his leadership and become a successful business in Indiana. Today, Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Mr. Beckman and all the winners from across America who work long hours and make huge sacrifices to build family small businesses that are the backbone of this economy.”