(Bangor, PA) Merchants Bank recently hosted the first annual art exhibit of works by students of Project Success from Bangor Area School District's DeFranco Elementary School. The exhibit was held at the Bank's branch located at 303 Pennsylvania Avenue in Bangor. Forty paintings, completed by 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students of Project Success, were on display from April 14th through 18th. A public reception was held at the branch on April 17th, with over 100 guests stopping by to enjoy refreshments while meeting some of the young artists and their parents. Teachers and administrators from the school district, along with Bank Officers and personnel, were on hand to greet the guests and support the talented students.

Merchants Bank's CEO and Director, Anthony J. Biondi, welcomed everyone at the reception and commented, "We are very proud to be partnering with our friends at the Bangor School District in a way that demonstrates and encourages the artistic ability of our creative young students and recognizes the diligent commitment of their parents and teachers".

Bangor School's Superintendent, John F. Reinhart, extended his thanks to the staff of Project Success for creating an atmosphere that is conducive to creating such beautiful works of art. He also thanked the Merchants Bank for "epitomizing the concept of a business-education partnership" in the Slate Belt area.

"Project Success is comprised of many motivated and caring individuals from diverse organizations," said Sherri Clifford, Director, Project Success. "I would like to especially thank Merchants Bank for their continued support of our after school program. Research clearly demonstrates the value of quality after school and youth development programs, not only for children but for families and entire communities. Youth who participate in after school programs improve significantly in three major areas: feelings and attitudes, behavioral adjustment and school performance," added Clifford.

Established in 1890, Merchants Bank is a locally owned and operated community bank. Headquartered in Bangor, PA, MNB has two branch offices in Bangor and additional offices throughout the Lehigh Valley, including Mount Bethel, Wind Gap, Bushkill Township, Nazareth, Forks Township, Martins Creek, Redner's Warehouse Markets in Northampton and a Business Center in Easton, PA. MNB Investment Services is a division of the Bank and offers investment and wealth management financial services. In June 2005, Merchants Bank received the Bernard J. Metz Entrepreneurial Spirit Award by the Two Rivers Area Chamber of Commerce in recognition for the Bank's entrepreneurial accomplishment and community service in the Two Rivers area. The Bank's website can be accessed at www.merchantsbangor.com.