[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 34 (Wednesday, March 14, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E353]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    IN HONOR OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF CENTRAL BANK OF KANSAS CITY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. KAREN McCARTHY

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 13, 2001

  Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to a 
pillar of the Kansas City community, the Central Bank of Kansas City. 
This month marks the 50th anniversary of Central Bank's service to the 
residents and businesses of Northeast Kansas City.
  Chartered in August of 1950, this financial institution has remained 
a stronghold in the community throughout the cultural and economic 
changes and growth that have occurred since it opened its doors. 
Through expansion and innovative services, Central Bank has 
demonstrated and continues to live up to its commitment and dedication 
to Northeast Kansas City.
  The American Bankers Association Banking Journal considers Central 
Bank of Kansas City one of the top performing banks in its category. A 
leader in community development, the bank joined with Old Northeast, 
Inc. Community Development Corporation, in 1999, to construct thirty 
new homes in the Northeast Community for low and moderate income 
families. Central Bank has also partnered with the Kansas City 
Neighborhood Alliance and Bishop Sullivan Community Center in an effort 
to revitalize housing in the Blue Valley neighborhood. In addition to 
promoting housing and small business initiatives such as the First Step 
Fund designed to assist small business entrepreneurs, they serve on the 
Safe Neighborhood Grant Advisory Council, which addresses the quality 
of life for the residents.
  Quality education is another priority of Central Bank. They 
participate in the ``Bank at School'' program which gives fifth grade 
students basic bank training. They participate on various boards such 
as the national Academy Foundation's business partnership for American 
education.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in celebrating the 50th anniversary 
of Central Bank of Kansas City. Its outstanding leadership serves the 
community well. Its continuing commitment to Old Northeast assures the 
vitality of this historic neighborhood.

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