First N.M. vet receives Patriot Express Business loan

Crystal Clear Maintenance Inc. of Ranchos de Taos has become the first New Mexico company to receive a Patriot Express Loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). John C. Woosley, SBA New Mexico District Director, announced the loan, which was initiated by First Community Bank. The Patriot Express Initiative guarantees portions of commercial small business loans up to $500, 000 for veterans, reservists, members of the military in career transition, and their spouses. Douglas R. Craft, President of Crystal Clear Maintenance, was congratulated by John Woosley in a signing ceremony conducted at SBA's.

 Crystal Clear Maintenance offers full-service cleaning and maintenance for business offices, medical buildings, manufacturing facilities, retail stores, schools, and private homes. Douglas R. Craft is a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He also played over 10 years of professional football, two years with the N.F.L. Seattle Seahawks and eight years with the C.F.L. Baltimore Stallions. Mr. Craft stated "I experienced an efficient and timely process in getting my loan approved. First Community Bank was there to guide me through the steps of this loan product, and the loan is meeting my business needs."

SBA District Director Woosley stated, "This is a brand new initiative that reaches out to veterans and members of the military community. the program features SBA's fastest turnaround time for loan approvals, We anticipate being able to offer this important financial product together with the participating lending community to existing New Mexico entrepreneurs to meet their needs for expansion, equipment purchase, working capital, inventory or business-occupied real-estates purchases, etc., as wee as to individuals wanting to establish their own business"