[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 134 (Friday, August 9, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1044]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





    BOHME FOUNDERS--SMALL BUSINESS PERSONS OF THE YEAR IN UTAH 2019

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                            HON. BEN McADAMS

                                of utah

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 9, 2019

  Mr. McADAMS. Madam Speaker, two sisters who immigrated from Argentina 
to Utah as children turned hard work and a dream into a remarkable 
business success story in just 12 years.
  In 2007, Vivien and Fernanda Bohme first opened in a temporary space 
in Fashion Place Mall, to sell their clothing during the approaching 
holiday season. Their fashion hit turned out to be what they dubbed 
``sexy, modest'' denims and tees. After a strong start, they opened a 
permanent store in Orem's University Mall, just ahead of what became 
the Great Recession. Like many small businesses, they struggled, but 
they persevered.
  Next, they started a location in Salt Lake City's Gateway Mall, which 
they remodeled themselves to save money. Vivien stopped work one night 
to go to the hospital and deliver her baby, but soon returned to finish 
the space. Profits were used to pay off debt and expand into new areas. 
``Bootstrap was our middle name,'' Vivien told a local news reporter.
  Their entrepreneurial success earned them a mention in Inc. 
magazine's list of 5,000 fastest-growing companies. They now operate 16 
stores in five states and are known for making themselves available to 
their 225 employees at all levels.
  Every Bohme employee is given three paid days off to volunteer at a 
charity of their choice. In 2018, the company experienced record 
profits and revenue growth.
  Last May, during National Small Business Week the U.S. Small Business 
Administration honored Vivien and Fernanda jointly as ``Utah Small 
Business Person of the Year.'' Their inspiring story is one example of 
how Utah's economy and our communities thrive thanks to the drive, 
determination and dedication shown by diverse individuals willing to 
chase their dreams here in America.

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