Cole Visits Women-Owned Businesses in Norman

NORMAN – Rep. Tom Cole toured three women-owned businesses in Norman Thursday. Cole met with business owners and employees at OMS Technologies, Fancy Cakes, and Pink Elephant Cafe to learn more about the challenges facing women-owned small businesses.

OMS Technologies CEO Agi Lurtz shared her company's difficulties in dealing with the impact of federal rules on their businesses and expressed concern that small businesses are at a disadvantage because they don't have large teams of lobbyists or staff that can navigate the piles of information on federal rules and regulations. Deborah Van Wagoner, owner of Fancy Cakes Etc., cited availability of capital as a chief concern, as did Pink Elephant Cafe owner Shannon Benton-Sherrod.

"Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, and that's certainly true in Norman," said Cole. "These women-owned businesses create jobs and help keep local commerce strong. I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about their concerns."

Other tour participants and organizers included: Laura Boyd, John Woods and representatives from Norman Chamber of Commerce; Women Impacting Public Policy; and State Reps. Emily Virgin, Scott Martin, and Aaron Stiles.