Small Business Workshop at The American Theatre March 5th 8am

 The City of Charleston is offering a workshop on March 5 to help small businesses navigate landlord-tenant and lending issues.The workshop is the first in a series called “Weathering the Economic Storm,” developed to help local businesses address problems caused by the economic downturn.The March 5 workshop, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the American Theater, 446 King St., will provide information on how small businesses can cut operating costs and find sources of short-term money. Three speakers will discuss how to work with a landlord on lease issues, work with a commercial lender on existing loans and seek additional financing through the Charleston Local Development Corp. or other sources. Following the short presentations, members of the audience can ask questions.Speakers for the first workshop are:

• Jeff Vinzani of Nexsen Pruet, who will speak on landlord-tenant issues. 
• Gary White of Wachovia/Wells Fargo, who will talk about commercial lending.
• Cindi Rourk from the Charleston Local Development Corp.

Mayor Joe Riley recently announced plans for the workshop series as part of a local economic stimulus plan. Topics will address concerns that city officials have been hearing over the past several months from local business owners, lenders, property owners and other constituents. Each workshop will be unique, with a panel of local professionals speaking on specific issues, city officials said. The city’s Business Services Office, the mayor and Comcast Business Services are hosting the first workshop.