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Sunday, February 22, 2015

The Bank That Is Different

As you pass through the doors to the Bear Hotel Artworks Museum, the Disney type atmosphere that surrounds you immediately stimulates your senses. Just the name Bear Hotel conjures up images of Disney’s Country Bear Jamboree.  Oh, but it’s so much more.  Encounter small alien creatures as they prepare to become future Mars astronauts anxious to blast off in their larger-than-life rocket ship.  Come face-to-face with Bigfoot in his cave.  Stop for photos at one of the thrones. You will also see upward of 20 shields painted with scenes from American history and over 30 doors painted with the history of Oregon.  You won’t believe the magically transformation on a vast array of Harley-Davidson choppers.  Don’t be startled by the talking Volkswagen painted with polar bears.

Evergreen Federal Bank in Grants Pass, Oregon is synonymous with “Bear Hotel” and its display of public art on the streets of downtown Grants Pass.  Representing a ‘one of a kind’ community facility, don’t attempt to rent a room at the Bear Hotel.  You see its not really a hotel at all.  It houses community artwork, as well as artist studios, and offers a unique meeting space.  The brainchild of retired Evergreen Federal Bank President Brady Adams, the Bear Hotel was a nickname that local artists gave to the Evergreen rented warehouse used for production and storage of the original Grants Pass Bear Fest, a tradition which began in 2003.  Later, when a permanent facility was established, a community events and meeting facility was added and the name “Bear Hotel” stuck.

Bear Fest is a celebration honoring Southern Oregon’s black bear.  Life size bears start out as plain fiberglass figures, then are magically transformed by local artists into colorful, embellished creatures that are publicly displayed on the downtown streets for all to see, touch, and enjoy throughout the summer months.  You will find over 60 of the wildest bears you will ever encounter.  Each of the bears includes an adorable bear cub as a companion and each is inscribed with the artist information. Visit www.bearfest.org for more details.

Last evening the Bear Hotel was transformed into a banquet facility for an evening to honor the employees of Evergreen Federal Bank.  Mouth-watering catered food selections included such favorites as chicken cacciatore, steak, salad, garlic beans, french bread, and chocolate chip bread pudding.  Handing out a plethora of prizes and individual service awards dotted the evening.  The desire to become an employee of Evergreen was evident by the number of 5-30 year service awards distributed by Jeffrey Hyde, the current President.   

Founded in 1934, Evergreen Federal Bank strives to be “the bank that’s different”.
President Jeff Hyde leads the team with a three-prong emphasis to the business.  1) Provide a place to keep your money;  2) Provide a place to get a real estate loan; and  3) Commitment to helping the community.   From Concerts in the Park to Wildlife Images, Evergreen has always been there to help. Not just monetarily, but a majority of the time with the employees volunteering their personal time.  Evergreen Federal Bank has raised millions of dollars for local non-profit organizations.  You will see their dedicated employees involved in everything from food drives to homeless shelters, fund-raising for medical equipment to projects that enhance the parks and other public spaces throughout the city. 

Evergreen Federal Bank continues to expand its influence within the Southern Oregon area by offering 2 locations in Grants Pass and other branches in Brookings, Rogue River, Cave Junction and Medford.   

Find out more about Evergreen Federal Bank and the Bear Hotel at:

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