Expand Program Participant Receives National Recognition

October 25, 2002

Cindy J. White, owner of Estelle Inc., a company that creates art-inspired designer sweaters, is making more than sweaters these days. She is making her mark with the U.S. Postal Service as one of their newest "poster companies" for priority mail service. White, a local business owner from the Sunnyslope area, is a participant of the city of Phoenix EXPAND Program.

White purchased her company four years ago and sought collateral assistance from the city's EXPAND Program to secure a small business loan to help grow and develop her business. "Since I have participated in the EXPAND Program, I now have 12 employees, a production manager and an office manager," said White.

The Estelle sweater, a popular form of wearable art for more than 25 years, is carried at upscale boutiques across the nation. The limited-edition hand-woven sweaters come in custom colors and various sizes. White said that the sweaters are shipped to individuals via U.S. priority mail with signature confirmation to ensure their arrival. Estelle Inc. was selected from several companies interviewed by the U.S. Postal Service to promote their priority mail service. White will appear in a priority mail poster displayed in more than 28,000 post offices nationwide by Dec. 28, 2002.

Media Contact:

Cynthia Weaver

602-262-6180

William Brice

602-262-6005