[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 16756]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



       TRIBUTE TO J. MICHAEL HICKEY, 2000 YANKEE AWARD RECIPIENT

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise today to 
honor Michael Hickey, for his recognition by the Yankee Chapter of the 
Public Relations Society of America as the 2000 Yankee Award Recipient.
  Mike is the president and CEO of Bell Atlantic New Hampshire, a 
company that faithfully upholds the ideals of corporate responsibility, 
good citizenship and core values. Mike has taken the role of CEO to a 
whole new level of relationship building by embracing those around him, 
not only within his company, but within the surrounding community as 
well. He consistently works hard to ensure that all employee and 
business concerns are met and addressed. It is his dedication to 
relationship building that exemplifies what public relations is all 
about.
  Mike is an extraordinary leader who leads by example, most notably by 
his involvement with numerous non-profit organizations. As chairman of 
Kids Voting New Hampshire and the former campaign chairman of the 
Greater Manchester United Way, Mike demonstrates the importance of 
civic responsibility and giving back to the community. He listens 
carefully to others and diligently tries to bring the disenfranchised 
into the inner circle. He makes people feel included and valued. His 
board membership in the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, the NH 
Business & Industry Association, and the NH High Tech Council prove his 
true commitment to the advancement of New Hampshire's businesses and 
economy. He is the type of leader who encourages those around him to 
give above and beyond one hundred percent of themselves. As a result, 
Bell Atlantic sponsors a number of community events aimed at educating 
and guiding youths and adults throughout the state, such as the 
Smithsonian Folklife Exhibit from New Hampshire and the Celebrate New 
Hampshire Culture Festival.
  Mike's hard work, determination and ability to motivate those around 
him to reach greater heights are truly commendable. His strong concern 
for the common good is admirable. He has truly illustrated the 
qualities of strong leadership and interpersonal relationship skills. 
Mike, it is an honor to represent you in the U.S. Senate.

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