STATEMENT BY THE SECRETARY OF COMMERCE AFTER LUNCH MEETING WITH HISPANIC BUSINESS LEADERS

U.S. Commerce Secretary Don Evans issued the following statement after meeting with Hispanic business leaders.

"Today I had the opportunity to meet with several Hispanic business leaders to listen to their points of view on our economy, our current investment climate, and issues affecting the Hispanic business community. Hispanic businesses play a critical role in our economy, and I want to make sure their voices are heard loudly and clearly in Washington.

"I am pleased with the numerous contributions Hispanic businesses make to America's economic prosperity through jobs, entrepreneurship and home ownership. Hispanics own 1.2 million businesses that are the backbone of our economy.

"Our nation is on track for sustained economic growth, but the President will not be satisfied until every American who wants a job can find a job, and all Americans have economic security. The business leaders I met with today play an important role as we work together to promote 'American Jobs and American Values'."

Business leaders participating in today's meeting include:
· Anna Cablik, President, Anatek, Inc., Atlanta, GA
· Anna Cabral, President, Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility, Washington, D.C.
· Hector Flores, President, League of United Latin American Citizens, Dallas, TX
· Al Frink, Executive Vice President, Fabrica International, Santa Ana, CA
· Don Garcia, President and Sr. Financial Planner, Pinnacle Financial Corp., Irvine, CA
· Claudia Puig, General Manager, Hispanic Broadcasting Corporation, Miami, FL
· Mario Rodriguez, President, Jonathan Grey and Associates, Inc. and The Latino Coalition, San Clemente, CA
· Raul Romero, President, S&B Infrastructure, Houston, TX

en Español