[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 100 (Thursday, July 27, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S7832]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    TRIBUTE TO OLDE PORT BANK--NH BUSINESS IN THE ARTS AWARD WINNER

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to pay 
tribute to Olde Port Bank for its recognition as a 2000 New Hampshire 
``Business in the Arts'' award winner in the small company category.
  Olde Port Bank proves that time and money are not the only key 
factors necessary for the successful continuation of arts programs. 
They have provided exhibit space in its offices and lobbies and 
promoted the activities of employees and customers who are artists as 
well. It is this sort of personal attention and support that make 
various programs available to the local community. The bank also 
understands the importance of a strong financial backbone, and helps to 
secure loans and credit lines so that the arts can remain part of the 
seacoast community.
  The Children's Museum of Portsmouth is one such grateful recipient of 
Olde Port Bank's efforts. The bank has given generous financial support 
for an endowment fund to the museum and established corporate 
membership and sponsorship. Bank employees spend countless hours 
assisting the museum in many of its events and activities. This sort of 
high participation is a testament to the staff's deep dedication to 
making the arts more accessible to the Portsmouth community.
  Olde Port Bank recognizes the importance of arts in education and the 
community. Forty percent of the bank's contributions budget is 
earmarked for arts organizations in the Portsmouth area, and this 
support is consistently growing each year. This company recognizes 
their power to lead by example, both economically and physically.
  Without the support of dedicated businesses like Olde Port Bank, the 
arts would not be able to flourish in New Hampshire. Olde Port Bank 
truly signifies the deep personal commitment of small businesses across 
the state to supporting the causes that make New Hampshire one's chosen 
place to call home. It is an honor to serve them in the United States 
Senate.

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