[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 47 (Thursday, March 19, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S1659]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING HELM PAINT & DECORATING

 Mr. VITTER. Mr. President, small businesses often set the bar 
for quality and service across the United States. When quality and 
customer service are at the forefront of a business's mission, viable, 
sustainable jobs are created for countless members of our communities. 
Such is the case with the Small Business of the Week, Helm Paint & 
Decorating of Hammond, LA.
  Ronald ``Bunky'' Helm opened shop in 1970 on Earhart Boulevard in New 
Orleans. Despite having to move from their original location after 
Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the Helm family has continued to bring 
excellent service and paint colors to south Louisiana. Today, Helm 
Paint is more than just a paint store--offering a wide variety of 
specialized paint, decoration, and accessory consultation. Helm's self-
proclaimed goal is for their customers to have a customized and quality 
experience.
  Last week, I had the distinct honor of officiating the grand opening 
ribbon cutting of Helm in Hammond, LA. The Hammond store is one of six 
locations serving south Louisiana communities. Each store participates 
in its surrounding community, holding events throughout the year in 
support of local charities and other organizations. Helm Paint & 
Decorating is also a testament to how vital small businesses are for 
creating jobs for Louisianians. Much of the company's staff are second, 
third or even fourth generation employees who serve second, third, and 
fourth generation customers. Because Helm employees are experts in the 
products they sell, the majority of customers only have to complete a 
project once. As the locals like to say, Helm Paint & Decorating is not 
just a business, it is an experience.
  Congratulations again to Helm Paint & Decorating for being selected 
as Small Business of the Week. Thank you for your commitment to 
customer service and creating quality jobs in communities across the 
State.

                          ____________________