06/07/2004
On Saturday, June 5, shortly after the world learned of the 40th president's death at age 93, NFIB President Jack Faris made the following statement regarding the life of President Ronald Reagan:
"Ronald Reagan represented all that is good about America.
"As president, he always knew the importance of free enterprise and that small business was the backbone of our nation's economy. He worked closely with NFIB throughout his entire eight years in office. Even after he returned to California, he graciously volunteered to narrate a documentary commemorating the 50th anniversary of NFIB in 1993.
"As president, Ronald Reagan knew that tax cuts were the best way to enable small businesses to help lead the nation's economy out of the lethargic period of the late 1970s.
"I first met President Reagan in 1975 while Reagan was governor of California. That is when I first became a fan and supporter. It was a pleasure and honor to know him personally. I know I share a sadness today with all the nation's small-business owners regarding Ronald Reagan's death, but we also will cherish our memories of his leadership and his commitment to and embodiment of our nation's best values and principles."
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is the nation's largest small-business advocacy group. A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization founded in 1943, NFIB represents the consensus views of its 600,000 members in Washington and all 50 state capitals. NFIB's 2004 National Small Business Summit will be held June 16-18 in Washington, D.C.
CONTACT: Michelle Dimarob, (202) 554-9000
