Published: May 16, 2008 03:11 am            

Chamber, PEDC to host business seminar

USDA Director John B. Smith to discuss small business financing alternatives

PALESTINE — The Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the Palestine Economic Development Corp., will present a seminar Monday to help small businesses and organizations.

John B. Smith, area director with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development will present the “Financing Alternatives for Small Business and Organizations” seminar from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday at Ben E. Keith Community Room, 2019 W. Oak St.

Smith will discuss grants and loan opportunities available through the USDA Rural Development program, grants and low-rate guaranteed loans, qualifications, co-ops and organizations.

In June 2002, Smith was selected to serve as the USDA Rural Development Area 5 Director, which covers a 17-county area in Central and North Central Texas with local offices located in Hillsboro and Groesbeck.

As Area Director, he leads the agency’s efforts to increase economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for all rural Texans within this area.

Smith has worked for USDA Rural Development his entire adult life. He started his career as an Assistant County Supervisor in Anson in 1979. In 1982, he was promoted to County Supervisor in Rotan, a position he held until transferring to Cleburne in 1985. Smith transferred to Hillsboro in 1997 and served as the USDA Rural Development Manager there until being named Area Director.

He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Agri-Business from Tarleton State University. He has received numerous awards from USDA Rural Development. He is a member of the Texas Association of Credit Specialists and has served as Vice-President of this association.

Cost to attend the seminar is $5 per person (which includes a meal). Reservations are preferred and can be made by calling the Chamber at 903-729-6066, faxing to 903-729-2083 or sending an e-mail to palestineareacofc@earthlink.net

        

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