U.S. BANK PRESENTS S&S CYCLE WITH FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS AWARD
La CROSSE, WI., March 23, 2005 - S&S Cycle Inc., the number one supplier of engine assemblies for American V-Twin motorcycles based in Viola, 40 miles southeast of La Crosse, was selected as a finalist for U.S. Bank's "Family Business Award."
Scott Nandory, U.S. Bank Business Banker, said, "Three generations of character, dedication and commitment to customers, family and the community is the key to the S&S Cycle's prosperity and the growth of their company. We wanted to identify and honor the Smith family because they exemplify what it takes to run a flourishing family owned business. In an industry where performance is everything, few can outperform their legacy of speed. We also wanted to recognize their great contributions to their employees and community and are proud to be associated with them," said Nandory.
Under the direction of Brett Smith since 2003, S&S, which also designs and makes performance aftermarket parts for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, was founded by Brett's grandfather, George Smith, Sr., in 1958. Brett joined the company in February, 2002 and became president in September, 2003. "My grandfather had a vision to make all bikes go faster, the second-generation followed through on that vision, and the third-generation inherited a fantastic business from them," said Smith, "We are honored to carry on that vision as we move toward our 50th anniversary in 2008."
S&S, which has over 400 employees, is very involved in the La Crosse community with organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, Children’s Museum, Boy's and Girls Club and the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra, as well as the La Crosse Area Development Corporation and La Crosse Industrial Park Corporation.
U.S. Bancorp (NYSE: USB), with $195 billion in assets, is the 6th largest financial holding company in the United States . The company operates 2,370 banking offices and 4,620 ATMs in 24 states, and provides a comprehensive line of banking, brokerage, insurance, investment, mortgage, trust and payment services products to consumers, businesses and institutions. U.S. Bancorp is home of the Five Star Service Guarantee in which the company pays customers if certain key banking benefits and services are not met. U.S. Bancorp is the parent company of U.S. Bank. Visit U.S. Bancorp on the web at usbank.com.