Business Grant and Loan Program

The St. Bernard Economic Development Commission. in conjunction with
Chalmette Refining, LLC, is supporting Louisiana Economic Development
(LED) in launching Governor Blanco's Business Recovery Grant and Loan Program.

The Application Seminar date in St. Bernard Parish is Tuesday, February 6, 2007, from 4:00 p. m. to 8:00 p. m., at the Chalmette Refining Cure-Contractor's Training Building. The address of this building is 520 East St. Bernard Highway, Chalmette, LA.

Danny Bourgeois, Acting Director, St. Bernard Economic Development
Commission (EDC) stated, "the primary focus of this Seminar is to conduct an orientation and application workshop to assist business owners to evaluate their eligibility, understand the application process and to submit their application."

"We are pleased to be an active participant in a program that is designed to get cash into the hands of our small businesses who are struggling to regain their footing during this recovery," said Walter Leger, St. Bernard EDC Chairman. Leger also stated, "Rebuilding our small business enterprises is a sound investment that will reap significant benefits for our community."

Information regarding eligibility and frequently asked questions is
available by viewing LED's website, www.louisianaforward.com