Contact:              
Jessica M.L. Thompson, Communications Director
270-781-3200; jessica@bgchamber.com

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) recognized the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce as Chamber of the Year during ACCE's annual conference held in Raleigh, N.C., last week, thereby declaring it the top chamber of its size in the United States and Canada.

Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Todd Davis announced the Chamber's award during a news conference this morning, saying, "We are so proud to be named Chamber of the Year because this award is the highest compliment that ACCE can give. We were in competition with chambers from across the nation, but we stood out because of what our organization represents."

"It was surreal to hear the words Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce announced during the awards ceremony in Raleigh on Friday night," said Chamber President and CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD. "This is a tremendous accolade from our chamber peers across North America. To be named Chamber of the Year is not just a reward for the dedication of our Board, Ambassadors, volunteers and staff; it also brings our chamber, and our community, recognition on a national scale."

Chambers must first qualify to compete by completing ACCE's annual Chamber Operations Survey, which is judged by ACCE based on seven criteria regarding net income, assets, and partner retention dollars and accounts. Only the top ranked chambers are then invited to complete an application that provides a comprehensive view of the chamber's success based on financial and partnership performance, as well as their communication and community programs.

Chamber Vice President of Operations Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE provided insight into the demanding application process. "This was a real opportunity to demonstrate to others that our chamber is the top in the nation. As we continue to provide excellent services and value for our more than 1,300 Chamber partners, our entire staff made it a priority to compete in this year's process to the best of our abilities. We highlighted a variety of the services we provide our partners and the South Central Kentucky region, ranging from our partnership retention program to our award-winning Work Ethic Seal program."

Hizer added, "Our application included an extensive summary of our regional menu of services program, which we launched in July 2008 to increase the competitiveness of the area counties, involving all organizations and officials in economic development efforts in the region."

ACCE selects the top three applicants in three size categories, recognizing those chambers as Chamber of the Year Finalists. The Albany (Ga.) Area Chamber of Commerce and the Erie (Penn.) Regional Chamber were finalists along with the Bowling Green Area Chamber. The final component of the process is an interview with a panel of experienced chamber professionals at the beginning of ACCE's annual conference. Finalists are recognized and the winning chambers are announced during the conference banquet.

"This award represents success for all aspects of our organization, success that would not have been possible without the support and hard work of our Board, Ambassadors, volunteers and staff," said Davis. "It's a true testament of the commitment all of our partners have for our local businesses and the entire South Central Kentucky region."

In addition to the Chamber of the Year Award, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce was also recognized with two Awards for Communications Excellence in the categories of Special Publication and Electronic Communication. The ACCE presents these awards to honor, reward and celebrate the achievements of outstanding communication programs, campaigns and projects.

For more information about the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.bgchamber.com or call 270-781-3200.

Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. As one of only 336 chambers nationwide to be accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,300 partners. Its primary goals are to promote growth and success in the business community, reaching its small business partners and those in large industries alike. With leadership programs, governmental relations projects, educational initiatives and involvement opportunities, the Chamber aims to support the community and its neighbors in order to enhance the business climate and continue to grow the region.