[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 192 (Wednesday, December 14, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S8600]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING COOL AS A MOOSE

 Ms. SNOWE. Mr. President, across the country the holiday 
shopping season is in full swing. For many, holiday shopping can be a 
stressful time, as picking out the ideal gift can often be 
overwhelming. Luckily, my home State of Maine has several small 
businesses which offer gift solutions in a fun and festive setting. 
Today I wish to commend and recognize one of these small businesses, 
Cool As A Moose, whose retail stores offer unique and creative gifts 
for the holiday season and throughout the year.
  Cool As A Moose first opened its doors in 1986 in the coastal town of 
Bar Harbor. Whether a customer longs for a moose hat or an adorable 
stuffed animal lobster, this small business offers customers an array 
of clever products and creative apparel. The company, now owned by 
Maine resident Kip Stone, has expanded to include stores in Freeport, 
Portland, and most recently Brunswick. The retailer also has an online 
presence and two licensed locations in Halifax and Quebec City, Canada.
  The establishment of a store and headquarters in Brunswick this past 
May was critical, as it brought jobs to an area of Maine that recently 
struggled after the closure of the Brunswick Naval Air Station. Kip's 
tireless search for an ideal location lasted 2 years, as he sought to 
find an environment that would allow him to open both a store and have 
space for his other company, Artforms, which supplies many of the 
designs for the retail store. Kip selected the Old Grand City 
restaurant and storefront for the flagship store. With this purchase 
and renovation, Kip furthered a critical mission by helping to 
revitalize the Brunswick downtown area.
  As can be seen from this small company's expansion, since its 
founding, this store's friendly customer service and engaging 
atmosphere have led to tremendous success. Most recently, Cool As A 
Moose was honored as the 2011 Merchant of the Year by the Maine 
Merchants Association. This honor is richly deserved as this small 
business consistently strives to improve each community it serves 
through volunteering and supporting area non-profits.
  Small businesses such as Cool As A Moose are the heart of the 
economy, and this holiday season I hope Americans will gather with me 
in supporting these retailers. In these tough economic times, this 
small firm's willingness to expand and continually strive to put local 
communities first is especially refreshing. I am proud to extend my 
congratulations to Kip Stone and everyone at Cool As A Moose for their 
tremendous efforts and offer my best wishes for continued 
success.

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