Link: http://www.usda.gov/2005/10/0472.xml Release No. 0472.05 Ed Loyd (202) 720-4623 Wayne Maloney (202) 690-0498 USDA APPOINTS DeVANEY TO HEAD RURAL DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS IN WASHINGTON STATE WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2005- Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns today announced the appointment of Jon DeVaney as the Washington State Director for USDA Rural Development. "Jon DeVaney has a thorough understanding of agricultural and rural issues," said Johanns. "The Bush Administration is pleased to have him as a key member of our team, working to enhance economic opportunities for the residents of rural Washington State." DeVaney currently serves as Deputy District Director in the Yakima, Wash., office of U.S. Representative Doc Hastings, a position he has held since 2003. He previously served on Congressman Hastings' staff as a legislative assistant and field representative. He is also a former Director of Legislative and Public Affairs for the Northwest Horticultural Council, where he managed legislative and regulatory issues at the federal and international level for the tree fruit industry of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. DeVaney holds a Bachelors of Arts degree from the University of Washington and a Master of Arts degree from Georgetown University. USDA Rural Development's mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life in rural communities. As a venture capital entity, Rural Development has invested over $54 billion since the beginning of the Bush Administration to provide equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Over 1 million jobs have been created or saved through these investments. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov. # USDA News oc.news@xxxxxxxx 202 720-4623 ---------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe, send email to webservices@xxxxxxxx and reference your email address.
