Tom Terrell, owner of Marine Landscaping, is the first veteran to receive a business development grant through the Gun Barrel City Economic Development's "Boots to Business" program. Terrell received a check for $8,775 at a ceremony attended by city officials and veterans representatives Jan. 21. Marine Landscaping is a new full-service landscape design and maintenance company specializing in flower beds, garden design and landscape installation for residential and commercial customers. The grant program designates $50,000 annually from the EDC budget for assisting veteran business owners. A committee of citizens, veterans, business people and EDC members review and approve applications for the business grants. All applicants for the grants must show matching funds for every dollar they request, and the recipients must meet quarterly for one year to report on their business activity. The Small Business Development Center at Trinity Valley College in Athens assisted Terrell with his application, and it is also helping other applicants seeking grants. EDC President Linda Rankin said the agency developed the program to help military personnel return to civilian life. Its establishment was announced on Veteran's Day in November 2012. "We're interested in helping those who dream of owning their own business and who can show us viable business plans," Rankin said. "We are ready to provide not only money, but support." Call 903-802-8628 to schedule an appointment with Marine Landscaping. For information about applying for a Boots to Business grant visit www.gbcedc.om or call 903-887-1899. (Picture below:) Marine Landscaping owner Tom Terrell, right, is the first recipient of a Boots to Business Grant from the Gun Barrel City Economic Development Corporation. Jim Braswell, chairman of the Boots to Business Committee, presented Terrell with a check to help expand his business during a reception held January 21st at Gun Barrel City Hall . EDC President Linda Rankin is shown at far left.