Celtic Bank and Jim Harris Win USDA's New Partner Award.

Online, June 2, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Celtic Bank announced today that it has received the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) California's New Partner Award in the business and industry (B&I) guaranteed loan program. Celtic Bank's Jim Harris also received an individual USDA award for the same category. Celtic Bank has been providing USDA loans since it first opened in 2001. According to Reese S. Howell Jr., chief executive officer for Celtic Bank, "We are excited to be able to contribute the rural community, and we are honored to be receiving these awards."

The purpose of the B&I Guaranteed Loan Program is to improve, develop, or finance business, industry, and employment and improve the economic and environmental climate in rural communities. This purpose is achieved by bolstering the existing private credit structure through the guarantee of quality loans which will provide lasting community benefits.