WHEREAS, Every year, our nation sets aside a time to honor the 25 million Americans whose entrepreneurial drive personifies the American dream; and

WHEREAS, America’s 25 million small businesses reflect the things that make our nation great; and

WHEREAS, Small businesses are a vital part of our nation’s economy and are leading the way during the current economic recovery. They represent 99 percent of employers, more than half of all private sector employees work at small businesses, and three out of every four new jobs created in this country are created by small businesses; and

WHEREAS, As our nation continues on the path of economic recovery, it is important to appreciate the role that our small business entrepreneurs are playing; and

WHEREAS, It is appropriate during Small Business Month to acknowledge the contributions, efficiencies, and innovations that create new markets and opportunities for California, the nation, and the world; and

WHEREAS, Small Business Month is a time to celebrate our successes and to thank America’s small business owners for their contributions to our communities, our economy, and our nation. Commemorating the pioneering and inventive spirit of small business invites reflection upon future challenges to small business and plans to overcome them; now, therefore, be it