Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce News Newswire

Graduation Held for 2009 Leadership Bowling Green Class

11/18/2009

Graduation Held for 2009 Leadership Bowling Green Class

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The 2009 Leadership Bowling Green Class graduated on Tuesday, November 17, celebrating their completion of an eight-month leadership program that provided them insight into many aspects of their community.

Jonathon Estes of Humana served as the class's president and is very proud of what his class has accomplished. "You become a part of so many different aspects of Bowling Green when you enroll in this program. You become a more active contributor to the community while growing together as a class. I've truly enjoyed my experiences during the past year with the 2009 LBG program."

Jon Schubarth served as the chair of the 2009 program, working with co-chair Michelle Disney and Program Director Lindsey Moyers to lead the class through an educational eight-month program. Schubarth, manager of engineering for Warren County Water District, said, "Leadership Bowling Green does not just impact the lives of those who participate in the program; it also impacts the community. This class had a great energy and demonstrated strong leadership skills, which is what the program sets out to accomplish. I'm honored to have been a part of this year's program."

"This LBG class has been a joy to work with this year," said Moyers, who is responsible for the Leadership Bowling Green program. "The class participants are outgoing and innovative, and they really took an interest in all the planned events, from attending retreats at Camp Loucon and in Louisville to volunteering at Barren River Area Safe Space. The class made an impact on the community while enhancing their leadership skills."

Major General Jerry D. Humble, United States Marine Corps (Ret.) was the keynote speaker for the graduation. Major General Humble is also class member Lee Baldock's father. The City of Bowling Green and the County of Warren also issued a joint proclamation, naming November 17, 2009 the official Leadership Bowling Green Day.

Graduates of the 2009 Leadership Bowling Green class are

Joe Dan Beavers, LifeSkills, Inc.
Brian Becker, Big Brother Big Sisters of South Central KY
Stacey Biggs, Western Kentucky University
Matt Coffey, BKD, LLP
Nick Cook, Barren River Area Development District
John Drott, Allstate Family Protection Group
Scott Duvall, Holland CPAs
Jonathon Estes, Humana
Mike Hall, Bowling Green Municipal Utilities
Lynn Hartley, City of Bowling Green
Patty Kantosky, Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation
Travis Keller, PBI Bank
Andrew Mikovch, U.S. Bank
Chris Minix, Lanna Martin Kilgore, PLLC
Laura Hanks Petrino, American Red Cross of South Central Kentucky
Samantha Propp, English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP
Don Sergent, Warren County Public Schools
Amanda Shaff, American Bank & Trust Company, Inc.
Ann Smith, Mary Kay Cosmetics
Josh Smith, Bowling Green Warren County Community Education
Cody Tellis, BB&T
Oren Wilson, Bank of Edmonson County
Courtney Wise, Individual Chamber Partner
Crystal Wolfe, National City Bank, now a part of PNC

Additionally, five members of the 2008 Leadership Bowling Green Class received their diplomas: Heather Age of Allied Energy, Brian Cambron of Whayne Supply Company, Joanna Futrell of American Bank & Trust, Debbie Vance of PBI Bank, and John Ward of Edmonton State Bank.

After graduation, LBG participants are encouraged to join the Leadership Bowling Green Alumni Association (LBGAA). This organization allows alumni to continue to enhance their leadership skills and to remain involved in the Bowling Green community.

Leadership Bowling Green applications will be available January 4 online at www.bgchamber.com and are due January 29 by the close of business (4:30 p.m. CST). For more information, contact Program Director Lindsey Moyers at 270-781-3200.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. The Chamber was honored with 5-Star Accreditation in 2009, the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. As the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,300 partners and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Petrino Receives 2009 Bart Hagerman Leadership Award

11/18/2009

Petrino Receives 2009 Bart Hagerman Leadership Award


	Jason Rose presented the 2009 Bart Hagerman Leadership Award to Laura Hanks Petrino.

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Laura Hanks Petrino is the 2009 Bart Hagerman Leadership Award recipient. She received this award during Tuesday night's 2009 Leadership Bowling Green graduation ceremony.

The Hagerman Award is the top honor bestowed upon a graduating member of the Leadership Bowling Green program, and the recipient is selected by a vote of his or her classmates. The 2008 recipient, Jason Rose, branch manager at U.S. Bank's Northgate Office in Bowling Green, presented the award to Petrino, who showed enthusiasm and leadership throughout the 2009 program.

In her application to join the 2009 class, Petrino described her desire to learn more about her community: "Having an opportunity to further develop an appreciation for the place I call home would be enlightening at a time early in my career where I can grow in knowledge, professional relationships and in service to my community."

Petrino is a health and safety sales and marketing coordinator at American Red Cross of South Central Kentucky, where she has been employed since October 2008. She is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, at which she is also completing her master's degree. As a member of New Life Baptist Church in Auburn, Ky., she has served as part of the Vision Team and as a youth teacher, and she has been a member of a Women's Bible Study in Bowling Green since May 2007. Petrino is an alumna of Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority at the University of Kentucky and is a past volunteer for the Shriners Hospital for Children in Lexington.

"I'm deeply honored and humbled to receive the Hagerman Award this year," said Petrino. "Leadership Bowling Green has greatly impacted my life here in Bowling Green, and I especially enjoyed getting to know all my classmates. I'm truly grateful for their support and their confidence in me as they awarded me this honor."

The Hagerman Award is named for Bart Hagerman who served as the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce's chamber executive from 1983 to 1986. Hagerman initiated the first leadership program for Chamber members in Kentucky while he worked as the assistant chamber executive at the Ashland (Ky.) Chamber of Commerce; that program became known as Leadership Ashland. He brought the program to Bowling Green when he accepted the chamber executive position, and he selected the first Leadership Bowling Green class in 1984.

Jon Schubarth, chairman for the 2009 Leadership Bowling Green class, congratulated Petrino by saying, "Laura is very deserving of this award, and I'm so proud of her. She took a real leadership role in the class, and her positive energy and enthusiasm impacted us all."

Applications for entrance into the 2010 Leadership Bowling Green class will be available online at www.bgchamber.com beginning January 4, 2010. The application deadline will be 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 29, 2010. For more information, contact Program Director Lindsey Moyers at 270-781-3200.

Kentucky Association for Economic Development Annual Conference Held in Bowling Green

11/16/2009

Kentucky Association for Economic Development Annual Conference Held in Bowling Green

Conference Hosted by Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and South Central Kentucky Economic Development Partnership

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED), the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the South Central Kentucky Economic Development Partnership hosted last week's annual KAED Conference in Bowling Green at Sloan Convention Center.

More than 100 economic development professionals and local, state and federal officials, including U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie, participated in the conference, which fostered conversations regarding the growth of economic development in the Commonwealth.

"Thanks to the hospitality of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the South Central Kentucky Economic Development Partnership, the KAED conference was a great success this year. We're grateful for their support, as well as the support of our sponsors," said Mike Mangeot, KAED president and CEO.

Sponsored by Scott, Murphy & Daniel, LLC, the conference featured presentations by nationally recognized site selectors Richard Eads of ADP Tax Credit Services, Jonathan Sangster of CB Richard Ellis and Don Schjeldahl of Austin Consulting. Each site selector spoke on the current climate for economic development in Kentucky, including new investment opportunities in energy and Kentucky's new economic development incentives.

The conference included the following award presentations during lunch on Thursday, November 12:

Jody A. Lassiter of Danville/Boyle County Economic Development Partnership was the winner of the James J. Coleman Community Professional of the Year Award presented by East Kentucky Power. The award recognizes economic development practitioners who have made significant and/or innovative contributions to the field and their service area during the past year.
James O. Martin of Tennessee Valley Authority was the winner of the KAED Allied Professional of the Year Award. This award recognizes an individual from the utility, job training, construction, education, government and research areas who has made significant contributions to economic development.
Kimberly J. Solsbury of Commerce Lexington was the winner of the James Norris Gray Award for Professional Development. This award recognizes those economic developers who strive to keep abreast of the ever-changing field of economic development.

At Thursday evening's banquet, KAED formally inducted Jerry Rickett, president & CEO of the Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation, and Marvin E. "Gene" Strong, former secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, into the Kentucky Economic Development Hall of Fame.

"We were proud to honor all our award recipients during the conference, and our speakers' presentations were informative as to how our state's economic development professionals can continue to market their locations to businesses across the nation and the world," said Mangeot.

"The KAED Conference gave the Chamber and our South Central Kentucky partnership an opportunity to highlight the assets of our community, as well as a chance to connect with our peers in the economic development industry," said Chamber President and CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD. "We thank KAED and everyone who attended the conference for visiting our fine city."

The conference ended on Friday, November 13th, with presentations by U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie, who gave an update regarding happenings in Washington, D.C., and a presentation by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development

"The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce was proud to host the KAED conference this year, and we appreciate everyone's attendance," said Todd Davis, chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors. "We also thank our generous sponsors for making the event a success."

About KAED
KAED was founded in 1967 to promote economic development and growth in Kentucky. KAED members work together on a local, regional and statewide basis to improve the quality of life for every Kentuckian.

Chamber Receives 5-Star Accreditation

11/13/2009

Chamber Receives 5-Star Accreditation

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has received yet another award for excellence in 2009. The United States Chamber of Commerce has awarded the Chamber with a 5-Star accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community.

Accreditation is the only national program that recognizes chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. Local chambers are rated Accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars, or 5-Stars. State chambers are recognized as either Accredited State Chamber or Accredited State Chamber with Distinction. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members.

Only 288 chambers of commerce are accredited in the United States and less than one percent of all U.S. chambers are designated with 5-Star accreditation.

"Accreditation validates a chamber as having programs that benefit their local economy and for positively influencing action in their community," said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber Executive Director of Political Affairs and Federation Relations. "We applaud these organizations for advancing the principles of free enterprise."

"I'm extremely proud of the Chamber for receiving the highest honor bestowed by the United States Chamber," said Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Todd Davis. "This 5-Star accreditation signifies our organization's strength and excellence amongst chambers across the nation."

In order to receive accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, and technology. This extensive self-review can take three to six months to complete.

"To be honored as a 5-Star chamber is a huge accomplishment for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce," said James N. Hizer, CEcD, Chamber president and CEO. "Such an honor is only heightened by the fact that we were named Chamber of the Year by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives this year. We're grateful to our Board, Ambassadors, volunteers and staff for making 2009 such a fantastic year."

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. As one of only 288 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Bowling Green Hosts Annual Conference for Kentucky Association for Economic Development

11/12/2009

Bowling Green Hosts Annual Conference for Kentucky Association for Economic Development

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Beginning today, economic development professionals and local, state and federal officials, including U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie, will be attending an annual conference designed to promote and further economic development in the Commonwealth.

The 2009 Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED) Annual Conference, which is sponsored by Scott, Murphy & Daniel, LLC, is hosted by KAED, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the South Central Kentucky Partnership.

"We greatly appreciate the hospitality shown by the City of Bowling Green and the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce," said Mike Mangeot, president and CEO of KAED. "We look forward to a great conference!"

"We're pleased to host our fellow economic development professionals from across the state this week," said Chamber President and CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD. "Not only does this conference provide us with an opportunity to address the current economic development climate, but it also gives us a chance to connect with our peers from across Kentucky. We're also thrilled to host three of the best site selectors in the nation at this week's conference."

The conference began on Wednesday with registration, golf at Olde Stone, a tour of Bowling Green's downtown redevelopment efforts and a reception at Olde Stone. The conference formally begins today with presentations by nationally recognized site selectors, who work with dozens of industries interested in finding a location for an office or manufacturing facility, or a warehouse/distribution center. The site selectors and their topics are

"Unraveling Renewable Energy: Identifying Investment Opportunities from Wind, Solar and Smart Grid" - Don Schjeldahl, Austin Consulting
"The Economic Development Derby: What Does It Take to Field a Winner...and Handicapping Kentucky's Chances" - Jonathan Sangster, CB Richard Ellis
"Incentives for a New Kentucky (INK)-How It Stacks Up" - Richard Eads, ADP Tax Credit Services

The conference will continue with formal award presentations during lunch and at the evening banquet, when two economic development professionals will be formally inducted into the Kentucky Economic Development Hall of Fame. Other awards to be announced during the conference are

KAED Outstanding Service Award in Honor of the Kentucky Industrial Development Council
James Norris Gray Award for Professional Development
James J. Coleman Community Professional of the Year Award presented by East Kentucky Power
KAED Allied Professional of the Year

The conference will close on Friday, November 13th, with presentations by U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie, who will give an update from Washington, D.C., and a presentation by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development.

"The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce thanks all attendees of the KAED conference for visiting Bowling Green, as well as all of our generous sponsors for supporting this event which brings visitors from across the United States to our fine city," said Todd Davis, chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. As one of only 288 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Matthews Ranked in Top 40 by American Chamber of Commerce Executives

11/9/2009

Matthews Ranked in Top 40 by American Chamber of Commerce Executives

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Tonya L. Matthews, IOM, ACE, who currently serves as vice president, chamber operations for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, has been ranked as one of the Top 40 under 40 by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) in their Fall 2009 Chamber Executive Magazine.

"Tonya is an incredible asset to the Chamber," said Todd Davis, Chamber Board chairman. "She serves as a great source of knowledge about this organization and is a mentor to all Chamber staff."

Chamber Executive Magazine compiled the Top 40 Under 40 list from nominations by local chamber leadership, co-workers and chamber colleagues. According to the magazine, the executives profiled "encompass most aspects of the chamber profession, hailing from state chambers, large metropolitan area chambers, emerging city chambers and smaller town chambers."

These executives are recognized for "their creativity, dedication and commitment to finding innovative ways to enhance the membership experience, for trying new methods of communicating with members, elected officials and the community at large, and for providing leadership that encourages local investment and participation."

Chamber President and CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD nominated Matthews for this honor, writing in his nomination that "Tonya led the Chamber through two re-accreditation processes, and a third currently underway, with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. She also served as the lead staff person on our $2.8 million capital campaign project and was coordinator of the building project, working directly with our building committee on its new $4 million dollar building, located downtown. We consider her a critical player in securing Chamber of the Year in 2009."

Hizer praised Matthews for her leadership of Chamber staff, saying, "We would not be the organization we are today, if it weren't for Tonya's leadership."

Matthews is serving her thirteenth year at the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, in her third position. She received the Accredited Chamber Certification (ACE) from the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives in 2008. This certification recognizes the professional competence and expertise attainted by chamber of commerce professionals in the state of Kentucky. She is also a 2007 graduate of the Institute for Organizational Management, a four-year nonprofit intensive leadership training program through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Institute graduates receive the IOM recognition, signifying completion of 96 hours of course instruction in association, chamber, and nonprofit management.

"I've met and worked with many exceptional chamber professionals across the nation and am really honored to be among the chosen top 40 for this particular tribute," said Matthews. "I've had the privilege of growing with the Chamber and working directly with some of the best people I've known and may ever know in my lifetime. I've enjoyed working with our volunteers and community leaders over the past decade. I appreciate the fact that I continue to be inspired and learn from the superior team members that I'm blessed to work with everyday. And it never hurts to be reminded, I guess, that I still have a few more years before my 40th birthday arrives."

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

CHEP Brings 46 New Jobs to South Central Kentucky

11/4/2009

CHEP Brings 46 New Jobs to South Central Kentucky

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-A new business will soon be occupying an existing building at the South Central Kentucky Industrial Park, bringing with it 46 new jobs to the region, says the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.

"We're pleased to announce that CHEP has made a multi-million dollar investment in locating its new operations in the former PFI building," said Todd Davis, 2009 Chamber chairman. "With its third-party provider, CLM Pallet Recycling, having already completed its hiring process, we're excited to watch this business grow and flourish in Bowling Green."

CHEP is the global leader in pallet and container pooling services and serves many of the world's largest companies. The company issues, collects, conditions and reissues more than 300 million pallets and containers from a global network of service centers, handling pallet and container supply chain logistics for customers in the consumer goods, produce, meat, home improvement, beverage, raw materials, petro-chemical and automotive industries.

CLM Pallet Recycling, which will operate CHEP's Bowling Green location, is a full-service pallet recycling company with corporate offices located in Indianapolis, Ind. The company currently operates eight plants throughout the Midwestern United States.

"The Bowling Green Area Economic Development Authority is proud to welcome CHEP to our region," said Doug Gorman, chairman of the Bowling Green Area Economic Development Authority, the organization that owns the CHEP-occupied building. "We're thrilled that this company will be bringing more jobs to the region."

"It's always a great day in Bowling Green when we're able to announce that more jobs are coming to our community," said Mayor Elaine Walker. "We're thankful that CHEP has decided to locate its facility here."

Judge Executive Michael Buchanon agreed, "We welcome CHEP into our community, and we thank them for making the decision to invest in South Central Kentucky."

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Chamber Welcomes New Partnership Development Director

11/2/2009

Chamber Welcomes New Partnership Development Director


	Courey McCubbin, Partnership Development Director

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has welcomed a new staff member to its team, naming Courey McCubbin as the new partnership development director. In her new role, McCubbin will be responsible for the President's Club, partnership retention and Chamber marketing.

"We're thrilled to have Courey on our staff," said Chamber Vice President, Operations Tonya Matthews. "She has a great deal of marketing and sales experience, and with her energy and knowledge, she's sure to be a success as partnership development director."

McCubbin obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from Western Kentucky University in 2006. She finished her coursework for a Master's degree in business administration through WKU's Trilateral MBA program in August 2009 and will graduate with her MBA in December.

While enrolled in the Trilateral MBA program, she spent the Fall 2008 semester studying in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada at the Université de Moncton, and then she spent the Summer 2009 semester in Querétaro, Mexico at the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro. She worked as a graduate assistant in the MBA department and was responsible for marketing and promoting the newly created Trilateral MBA program.

McCubbin also worked as a sales executive for Hitcents.com, where she was responsible for marketing and sales for high-end technology products and services. Her position required top quality customer service skills and technical knowledge, and it provided her with excellent experience to work with Chamber partners. She was also a member of the Chamber's Recruitment Committee while with Hitcents.com.

"Courey is a great addition to the Chamber team," said Todd Davis, 2009 chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors. "She will be a great asset because of her experiences in and out of school, and we're eager to watch her apply those skills to her new role."

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Chamber Director, Regional Development Builds Entrepreneurial Coaching Skills

10/30/2009

Chamber Director, Regional Development Builds Entrepreneurial Coaching Skills


	Miller Slaughter, Chamber Director, Regional Development

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Miller Slaughter, director of regional development at the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, has been accepted and enrolled in the prestigious Kentucky Entrepreneurial Coaches Institute (KECI), an 18-month program designed to create coaches, leaders and advocates to build the entrepreneurial spirit in South Central Kentucky.

KECI is funded by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board and administered by the University of Kentucky's Extension Service in cooperation with the Center for Rural Development. The program consists of 8 two- to three-day seminars, in which 30 members of the South Central Kentucky region learn tools to coach communities and citizens to explore entrepreneurial opportunities. They attend seminars taught by what Dr. Ronald J. Hustedde, director of the Kentucky Entrepreneurial Coaches Institute, describes as the "best and the brightest in rural entrepreneurship nationally and internationally as well as those from Kentucky." Each KECI participant, including Slaughter, receives a fellowship valued at more than $18,000 to override the costs of the seminars.

"I'm honored to be a part of this Institute because of the high priority it places on growing entrepreneurs in the region. Small businesses and entrepreneurship are passions of mine, and I'm grateful that I can apply what I'm learning in the seminars to my work with the Chamber's regional partners," said Slaughter.

"We're happy to have Miller involved in such a prestigious program," said Todd Davis, Chamber Board chairman. "His involvement will enhance the Chamber's already strong involvement with entrepreneurs in the area and will help to encourage more South Central Kentucky residents to start their own small businesses."

Entrepreneurs are those who see things a little differently, who look at an empty building and see an opportunity to start a business, Dr. Hustedde explains. "They see a need in the community, region, nation or world, and they want to provide a high-quality service or product to fill that void."

Building a strong entrepreneurial culture and economy will enhance the future of South Central Kentuckians, asserts Hustedde. "By fostering entrepreneurial growth in smaller, rural communities, we are reaching a prime audience. Rural communities are less likely to attract large industries, but so many of the community members have dreams of providing a service or product. Institute participants gain the knowledge and tools to help those community members achieve those dreams."

Slaughter points out the value of having small businesses and entrepreneurs, citing research by the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture's Cooperative Extension Service. "Start-up companies account for 44 percent of new jobs in the nation. Such firms account for about 70 percent of the new economic growth in the U.S. That's a tremendous amount of money being filtered into our economy. It only makes sense to encourage entrepreneurship knowing those figures."

Dr. Hustedde agrees, explaining that many countries are already fostering entrepreneurship youth, requiring entrepreneurship classes within schools in Scotland, Canada and other countries. The Institute aims to create coaches who can instill those seeds in South Central Kentucky residents. "We're teaching these coaches to change the mentality that the majority of start-ups fail, to change mindsets that I can't do that job to I can achieve that dream."

For more information about KECI, visit www.uky.edu/AG/CLD/KECI or contact Dr. Hustedde at 859-257-3186 or Katie Ellis, program director, at 859-227-0911.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Governor Beshear Announces Blackhawk Composites to Start-up Manufacturing Facility in Morgantown

10/30/2009

Governor Beshear Announces Blackhawk Composites to Start-up Manufacturing Facility in Morgantown

Advanced aerospace manufacturer to create 30 new jobs, invest over $1.5 million

COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY
Cabinet for Economic Development
OLD CAPITOL ANNEX
300 WEST BROADWAY
FRANKFORT, KENTUCKY 40601-1975

Contact:
Mandy Lambert; 502-564-7670
Jessica M.L. Thompson; 270-781-3200

FRANKFORT, KY – Gov. Steve Beshear and Economic Development Cabinet Secretary Larry Hayes today announced Blackhawk Composites, Inc., a start-up manufacturer of advanced aerospace composite parts, will begin manufacturing operations in Butler County. The project entails the creation of 20 new jobs initially, growing to 30 within the first year, and a more than $1.5 million investment in the Commonwealth.

“The start-up of Blackhawk Composites in Butler County will provide dozens of high-quality, well-paying jobs - the kind of jobs Kentucky seeks to create,” said Gov. Beshear. “We’re proud to be the home of Blackhawk Composites and will continue to partner with them on future opportunities.”

Established in September 2009, the newly formed Blackhawk Composites will lease a 40,000 square-foot facility to manufacture advanced aerospace composite parts for Cessna Caravan aircraft cowls, the part of the aircraft that covers the engine. The Cessna Caravan is a large single engine turboprop used for executive and cargo transport, as well as other commercial uses such as a jump platform for skydiving. These aircraft are found in increasing numbers worldwide.

“We are very pleased that we were able to establish this venture in Kentucky,” said Gary Smrtic, president of Blackhawk Composites. “It has been the goal of our core team to bring aerospace work into south central Kentucky for some time, and this is the fruit of that labor.”

“While Blackhawk Composites, Inc. is technically a start-up, our management team is certainly not new to business,” added Smrtic. “Unlike most start-ups, we will begin with a long-term tooling and production contract for one type of aircraft already in place, as well as several other prospects we are discussing with other aircraft companies.”

The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority preliminarily approved Blackhawk Composites for tax benefits up to $750,000 under Kentucky’s new incentive program, the Kentucky Business Investment Program. The incentive can be earned over a 10-year period through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments. The maximum annual approved amount to be earned by Blackhawk Composites is $50,000.

“We are truly thrilled to have Blackhawk Composites starting their business in Morgantown,” said Morgantown Mayor Eva Hawes. “We’re grateful they have decided to invest in our community.”

“We’re very excited Blackhawk Composites selected Morgantown and Butler County for their home,” said Butler County Judge Executive David Fields. “The 30 jobs they plan to create will be a welcome addition to our community.”

“We’re very pleased that Blackhawk Composites will be opening their manufacturing facility in Butler County,” said Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Chairman Todd Davis. “Butler County and Morgantown are actively involved in the Chamber’s award-winning South Central Kentucky partnership, and we’re thrilled to be a part of this project.”

A community profile for Butler County can be viewed at http://thinkkentucky.com/EDIS/cmnty/index.aspx?cw=070.

About the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development
The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development is the primary state agency in Kentucky responsible for creating new jobs and new investment in the state. New business investment in Kentucky in 2008 totaled nearly $1.7 billion with the creation of more than 7,750 new jobs. Information on available development sites, workforce training, incentive programs, community profiles, small business development and other resources is available at www.ThinkKentucky.com.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Chamber Celebrates Industry Appreciation Month

10/28/2009

Chamber Celebrates Industry Appreciation Month

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


Chamber President & CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD and Berry Plastics (Bowling Green) Plant Manager Terry Wix

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the economic impact of industries in South Central Kentucky at the Industry Appreciation Banquet last night at the Sloan Convention Center. More than 350 people attended the banquet, which is the highlight of Industry Appreciation Month in South Central Kentucky.

In addition to honoring the 2009 Industry of the Year, Berry Plastics Corporation (Bowling Green location), the Chamber recognized the many industries that have chosen to locate or expand in South Central Kentucky.

"This banquet gives the Chamber an opportunity for us to show our support for economic development in South Central Kentucky," said Todd Davis, chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors. "From new industries locating here to long-time employers expanding their facilities and creating even more jobs, it's clear that South Central Kentucky is a great place to live. The Chamber thanks everyone for their hard work and commitment to this region."

The Chamber's Industry Appreciation Committee organizes this banquet each year, as well as other events throughout the month of October and the Industry Golf Challenge in June to recognize industries in the region.

The banquet began with inspiring remarks by John Britt, nationally renowned speaker and co-author of Who Killed Change? Britt spoke on why 50 to 70 percent of change initiatives at organizations fail; he explained that customer service and communication are key to successful change initiatives.

"The numbers speak for themselves when we look at the importance of industry in our region. For every 100 new manufacturing jobs, 304 new people move to Bowling Green and Warren County. Those 100 new jobs also create a total economic impact of more than $33 million and create an addition 52 jobs in other fields. When we support our current industries and recruit new ones to join us here in South Central Kentucky, we're bettering the entire region," said John Lee, chair of the Industry Appreciation Committee.

Dan Preston, Vice President, Economic Development for the Chamber, shared the year's successes, touching on the Chamber's recent award from the International Economic Development Council and the success of the regional menu of services program. He then recognized the expanding industries in the South Central Kentucky region, which are

Smuckers (Allen County)
Casco (Butler County)
GSYS Military Products, LLC (Edmonson County)
DART Industries (Hart County)
Bluegrass Recycling (Logan County)
Anderson Forrest Products (Monroe County)

Warren County welcomed four new industries in 2009: Android Industries, Ground Effects, MetalWorks Recycle-Reload, LLC, and TMS Automotive. In Warren County, the expanding industries for 2009 are

Alley-Cassetty Brick
Corporate Service & Supply/CSS Coatings
Fruit of the Loom
Pan-Oston Company
Shop NBC

In total, the new and expanding industries have made an enormous impact on the region for 2009, creating 1,153 direct jobs and 573 indirect jobs while investing more than $90 million in capital and providing a total of $201 million in local economic impact.

James N. Hizer, CEcD, President and CEO of the Chamber, commented on the strength of the economy in South Central Kentucky. "Bowling Green leads the state in terms of job growth, and we're growing faster than three-fourths of all cities in the United States. As we are consistently ranked among the top places for businesses and careers, we're proud of our positive business climate and that so many companies, like those honored here, have located in South Central Kentucky."

Hizer then introduced Berry Plastics Corporation as the 2009 Industry of the Year. Berry Plastics, Bowling Green began operations in 1995 on a 24-acre tract of land in the South Industrial Park in Bowling Green. The state-of-the-art, climate-controlled facility, which currently employs 185 South Central Kentucky residents, covers 170,900 square feet and manufactures injection and compression molded plastic closures primarily for the food, beverage and distilled spirits industries. The Bowling Green plant produces nearly 4 billion closures annually, with sales in excess of $75 million every year, and the year's projected sales for the Bowling Green plant will be more than $80 million.

After comments from Berry Plastics Plant Manager Terry Wix, Davis presented the Industry of the Year plaque to the company representatives. Then Scott, Murphy & Daniel, LLC CEO Mike Murphy and President Danny Daniel presented the Industry of the Year flag to the group.

"We are so very honored to receive the Industry of the Year Award," said Wix. "We're very grateful for the support we have received from the Chamber and our entire region."

Davis closed the banquet by thanking all industries for committing their operations to South Central Kentucky and for supporting the regional efforts of all partners.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Bowling Green is a Best Place to Launch a Small Business

10/26/2009

Bowling Green is a Best Place to Launch a Small Business

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Once again Bowling Green has been recognized for its positive environment for small business. CNNMoney.com recently released its "Best Places to Launch" list--ranking the best large, middle and small population metropolitan areas for small business start-ups.

Bowling Green ranked 12th in the small cities list (populations under 250,000), placing it in the ranks with cities such as Sioux Falls, S.D.; Dubuque, Iowa; and Abilene, Texas. No other Kentucky city was ranked in Bowling Green's small cities category.

CNNMoney notes, "While some entrepreneurs prefer to locate near major cities, others opt for the intellectual spark and intimacy of college towns and other small, close-knit communities. One size doesn't fit all, so our list is divided into three tiers: small, midsize and large metro areas."

The full rankings can be found online at http://money.cnn.com/smallbusiness/best_places_launch/2009/full_list/top_small.html

CNNMoney ranked the cities based on factors such as per capita income, hourly wages, workforce quality, crime rates, taxes and foreclosures, as well as population size. Partnering with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and enlisting the help of Robert Fairlie, an economist and leading scholar of entrepreneurship at the University of California, Santa Cruz, CNNMoney developed the list of the most business-friendly communities in America.

"Once again Bowling Green is receiving national attention for its ideal business climate," said Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker. "Small businesses thrive here, especially because of our strong network of business leaders through the Chamber and other organizations, and we're thrilled to see our name on another prestigious list."

Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon agreed with Mayor Walker, "The entrepreneurial spirit thrives in Bowling Green and the entire South Central Kentucky region, so it's no surprise that we're being recognized for our small business environment."

According to the U.S. Census Bureau 2007 County Business Patterns, there are 2,704 small businesses with one to 49 employees in the Bowling Green metropolitan statistical area (MSA). The city's small business growth rate from 2004 to 2007 was 4.2% compared to the Best Places' average of 5.6%.

CNNMoney links Bowling Green's appeal to the downtown redevelopment project with the newly built Bowling Green Ballpark, Circus Square and the planned performing arts center. Other attractions include Fruit of the Loom and the Corvette plant as two of the MSA's largest and most well-known employers, as well as the city's ideal location off of Interstate 65. The article also listed the city's shift toward high-paying technology jobs, recognizing the state-of-the-art Kentucky Transpark and Western Kentucky University's small business and high-tech business incubators within the University's Center for Research and Development.

"Small businesses are an integral part of our community," said Todd Davis, 2009 Chamber Board of Directors chairman. "At the Chamber, we're proud to recognize small businesses through Small Business Appreciation Week, our CEO Roundtables and the Strategic Business Alliance. We work closely with WKU, as well as other organizations and educational institutions, to assist with resources for current and future small business owners."

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Chamber Unveils New Marketing Campaign

10/22/2009

Chamber Unveils New Marketing Campaign

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce unveiled its newest marketing effort during a news conference today at the Chamber headquarters. The campaign, labeled "My Chamber," features Chamber partners promoting their businesses and the Chamber through multiple media outlets.

"This campaign stemmed from the Chamber's 2009 Chamber of the Year Award," explained James N. Hizer, CEcD, Chamber president and CEO. "The staff, Board members and volunteers all recognize that such an award doesn't happen very often, and we want to continue to spread the message that we are the number one chamber in the nation. We also want to emphasize that this honor comes from the support of our entire partnership, so we've designed this campaign to underscore the fact that every one of our 1,300+ partners owns a piece of this award-winning chamber."

"It really all started with an idea for a t-shirt with an interesting logo," said Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE, Chamber vice president, operations. "But as staff started brainstorming other ways to celebrate the Chamber of the Year Award, we envisioned a massive campaign that not only gave us an opportunity to share our message with the community, but also for our partners to tell their stories too."

The campaign features a My Chamber logo which resembles the front of the Chamber building and was designed by the local firm Yellowberri. The logo will be used in television and radio commercials along with testimonials about Chamber partners' businesses. Partners can purchase advertising in the commercials, receiving maximum exposure at discounted rates.

"The My Chamber brand came from our goal of helping Chamber partners own the many successes that we've achieved this year," said Jessica M.L. Thompson, communications director. "They can share how their businesses are successful and how the Chamber has helped them reach their goals."

"We're very excited for the campaign," continued Matthews. "Especially to hear our partners explain why 'My business is better because of my chamber.'"

"I applaud our staff and volunteers, as well as Yellowberri, for developing this unique campaign, something that's never been done before in our chamber. I'm anxious to see the results," said Todd Davis, Chamber Board of Directors chairman.

Visit www.bgchamber.com/my_chamber for complete information about the campaign and its advertising packages. For additional information, contact Communications Director Jessica M.L. Thompson at 270-781-3200 or jessica@bgchamber.com.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Chamber Adopts Resolution on Retention of U.S. Postal Service Processing & Distribution Center

10/21/2009

Chamber Adopts Resolution on Retention of U.S. Postal Service Processing & Distribution Center

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce's Board of Directors adopted a resolution passed by the Legislative Action Committee opposing the proposed move of the Scottsville Road U.S. Postal Service Processing & Distribution Center to Nashville during their monthly meeting yesterday.

The resolution affirms that it is a Chamber priority to afford employment opportunities to citizens of South Central Kentucky and a move such as the one proposed would reduce employment in the region. In addition to adopting this resolution, the Chamber has mobilized its Grass Roots Network to share the Chamber's position with local, state and federal legislators.

Chamber Chairman Todd Davis, who signed the resolution, said, "We oppose the move of this facility to Nashville because of the potential detriments to our region, particularly the loss of jobs."

Chamber Vice President of Property Development and Public Policy R. Marc Elliott, CEcD, AICP agreed. "The Chamber is very concerned about the possible decrease in our service that might be reflected in the proposed closing of the distribution center."

The complete resolution adopted by the Chamber Board of Directors is available at the following link:
http://www.bgchamber.com/_documents/Postal_Service_Resolution.pdf

For more information, contact Chamber Vice President of Property Development and Public Policy R. Marc Elliott, CEcD, AICP at marc@bgchamber.com or 270-781-3200.

Chamber Receives International Award for Menu of Services Program

10/20/2009

Chamber Receives International Award for Menu of Services Program


	Chamber President & CEO James N. Hizer, Logan Economic Alliance for Development Executive Director Tom Harned, Chamber Chairman Todd Davis, Morgantown Mayor Eva Hawes, Chamber Vice President of Economic Development Dan Preston and Chamber Director of Regional Development Miller Slaughter

Contact:
Erin Way, Media Relations
(202) 942-9474, eway@iedconline.org

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) has recognized the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce for its innovative collaboration initiative while at the IEDC Annual Conference in Reno, Nevada, October 4-7.

"Furthering economic development is rarely a simple task in the best of times, and advancing the cause in the midst of a global financial crisis is nothing less than arduous," said Ian Bromley, IEDC chair. "As the consequences of the widespread economic turmoil have taken hold, we have seen our members become even more ardent proponents of economic development, flying in the face of one of the most challenging economic environments we have experienced in our careers. We proudly present this award to the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce for its superior work during these difficult times."

Competing in the category of Regionalism and Cross-border Collaboration by organizations serving areas with populations between 50,000 and 200,000, the Chamber was a clear standout with the Menu of Services Program for South Central Kentucky. Announced in July 2008, the program is designed to ensure that every county in the region is served by either their own economic development professional or by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber had recognized that those counties that did not have economic development professionals were behind the rest in terms of representation and readiness for industry projects, and economic and job growth.

"The Chamber's menu of services program is like no other in the entire nation," said James N. Hizer, CEcD, president and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. "By providing unique services tailored to meet our regional partners' needs, this program is a model by which all economic development programs can apply to their regionalism efforts. It is exemplary of the positive impact that regional cooperation can have in a community."

"Our Chamber staff works diligently with our regional partners to provide a top quality menu of services program because the Chamber understands the value of the regional approach to economic development," said Todd Davis, Chamber Board of Directors chairman. "We're proud of this award and thank our regional partners for their participation in this program."

About the International Economic Development Council
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is headquartered in Washington, DC. Its mission is to provide leadership and excellence in economic development for communities, members and partners. IEDC's professional economic development awards annually recognize excellence in the economic development profession.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Rogers is 2009 ATHENA Award Recipient

10/16/2009

Rogers is 2009 ATHENA Award Winner

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, along with Martin Cadillac, is pleased to announce that Joy Rogers is the 2009 ATHENA Award Recipient. The Chamber and Martin Cadillac continued the longstanding tradition of ATHENA Awards by presenting Rogers, who is a senior vice president business services officer at BB&T, with the award yesterday at a news conference held at the Martin Cadillac Building.

Rogers will be formally honored at the ATHENA Luncheon, to be held Thursday, November 12, at Indian Hills Country Club. Registration information for the luncheon can be found online at www.bgchamber.com.

"The Chamber is very pleased to present Joy with the 2009 ATHENA Award," said Chamber Board Chairman Todd Davis. "Joy is an outstanding contributor to the Chamber and the entire community, particularly by using her knowledge and strengths in educating others about financial responsibility. On behalf of the Chamber, I'd like to say 'congratulations' to Joy for winning this award!"

For the past 24 years, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, with the generous support of Martin Cadillac, has honored local businesspeople for contributing to the advancement of women in the workplace by presenting a well-deserving business leader with the ATHENA Award. The prestigious ATHENA Award celebrates positive role models in the business world--more than 3,000 women and men to date--on local, state, national and international levels. The ATHENA Foundation is dedicated to recognizing individual leaders that have opened doors of opportunity for women in the workplace and beyond, and this year's recipient, Joy Rogers, embodies everything that this award represents.

"Martin Cadillac has had the pleasure of sponsoring the ATHENA Awards since the Chamber first introduced this program to Bowling Green in 1986. We're committed to honoring those who have dedicated their time, resources, and overall essence to helping women achieve success in the workplace and in society. Joy is a wonderful example of what the ATHENA Award stands for, and we're proud to present her with the award this year," said Amber Martin.

Currently serving as senior vice president and business services officer at BB&T, Rogers holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Western Kentucky University. She is also a graduate of the National Commercial Lending School, and she received her BB& T Business Services Officer Certification in 2008. She has been an employee of BB&T since 1989, having held various positions within the organization such as manager of retail lending, manager of mortgage lending and manager of all indirect lending. Her current position includes a variety of responsibilities: managing and growing her loan portfolio, integrating her services with other BB&T specialties, overseeing her clients' personal financial affairs, and assisting her clients so that they can achieve their long-term financial goals.

Rogers currently represents the Western Kentucky region by serving as a member of the BB&T Business Lender Advisory Group, in which she works with 30 other top performers throughout the company to improve current systems, to review and discuss policy changes prior to execution, and to provide alternate ideas to increase the company's commercial lending efficiency and effectiveness. From 2002 to 2008, she has been repeatedly recognized for being the Top Commercial Business Services Production Officer in the Western Kentucky Region. She has also received the BB&T Sterling Performer Award, which is given to the top performer in the company, in 2002, 2003 and 2008.

Dedicated to her career in the banking industry, Rogers is an appointed mentor to two BB&T employees who are recent graduates of the bank's Leadership Development Program. The program gives young professionals an opportunity to work with someone well-entrenched in the company who can provide professional and personal guidance.

Rogers is founder of Bowling Green Bank Select Woman banking services, an account and services program for working women that includes personal and business services to make women's lives easier. She designed the special deposit account and obtained reduced prices on business and personal services for members of the program.

Outside of her role at BB&T, Rogers is heavily involved in community organizations to improve Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky. She is the founder of Bowling Green/Warren County Safety City, having raised funds and in-kind donations for the construction of the Safety City building and materials for the classroom. After the abduction and subsequent murder of Morgan Violi, Rogers felt the need to provide additional safety education for Warren County's children. In this program, police officers teach safety classes, giving students an opportunity to bond with police officers and to understand that the police officers are able to help them. Once students finish the classes, they enter the "city" to practice what they've learned. Rogers has served as treasurer and board member of Bowling Green/Warren County Safety City since 1996.

Rogers also co-founded the Community Reinvestment Development Committee and served on the committee for several years. Several different financial institutions came together for this committee, which focused on ways to provide affordable housing for the low to moderate income sector. Rogers has also taught several 'Yes, You Can Own a Home seminars for the Bowling Green Housing Authority to educate citizens about homeownership and to equip themselves with the tools necessary to position themselves as successful homeowners.

A 1994 graduate of Leadership Bowling Green, Rogers has been a member of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Committee since 2007; she has served two consecutive years on the Chamber's Infrastructure Committee; and she has been a new partnership recruiter for the Chamber for four years. She is also a current member of one of the Chamber's CEO Roundtable groups. She has been a member of the American Business Women Association for four years and has assisted with several fundraisers for that organization. She has been a member of Networking Women for four years as well.

Rogers has served for four years as a fundraiser for United Way, meeting with many business owners to assist in those companies' fundraising campaigns. She also served on the Allocation Committee for United Way for five years. She has been a member of the Bowling Green Junior Women's Club for five years and has served on various fundraising committees for the Junior Women's Club. She has been a Junior Women's Club representative to the organizations which receive donations from the club as well.

She is currently a board member for the Cross Ridge Home Owner Association, which applies for snap grants to improve the neighborhood and completes other neighborhood projects, such as welcome packets for new residents, Christmas decorating contests, block parties, yard sales and neighborhood watch programs.

A member of Living Hope Baptist Church, Rogers devotes time to her church as well. She served a three-year term as a trustee during which she assisted in establishing a financial plan to enable the church to expand its current facility and extend its community reach. She is currently a committee member of the Living Hope Property Acquisition/Liquidation Committee, which is responsible for acquiring and selling property as the church needs, and has been successful in assisting negotiations to acquire property on Lovers Lane and the Holy Spirit Catholic Church campus.

Rogers has been a Plan B Sunday School teacher for the past four years, teaching preschool children at Living Hope. She and her family served as a host family for all new members of Living Hope for three years. With this program, they welcomed new members into the church and provided those individuals with information about Living Hope. She has also been a member of Living Hope Small Group since 1997.

Other programs and organizations with which Rogers has been involved include volunteering at Joshua's Place for two weekends per month for a year cooking, cleaning and serving food to youth; participating in numerous fundraisers for the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and Bowl for Kids' Sake; and volunteering for "One Great Day" to repair homes for the elderly, paint playground equipment, plant flowers at schools and provide services for nursing home residents. She has been a member of the Parent Teacher Organization at Natcher Elementary School for four years and regularly assists in fundraising activities for the school.

Past ATHENA Award recipients are

Romanza Johnson (1986)
Betty Lovenstein (1987)
Peggy Loafman (1988)
Ann Elliott (1989)
Doris C. Thomas (1990)
Vickie Elrod (1991)
Joyce Wilson (1992)
Nancy Dixon (1993)
Sarah Glenn Grise (1994)
Dr. Lynn Chism (1995)
Deborah Williams (1996)
Sandy Jones (1997)
Dr. Georgia Childress (1998)
Robin Hunt (1999)
Pearl Taylor (2000)
Ann Puckett (2001)
Mary Cohron (2002)
Regina Parsley-Byrd (2003)
Ann Jewell Patterson (2004)
Kim Thomas (2005)
Heather Rogers (2006)
Regina Webb (2007)
Amy Milliken (2008)

Congratulations again to Joy Rogers, recipient of the 2009 ATHENA Award!

Registration is currently open for the 2009 ATHENA Award Luncheon, which will be held on Thursday, November 12, at 11 a.m. at Indian Hills Country Club. Register online at www.bgchamber.com.

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.

Chamber Honored with Three KCCE Awards

10/13/2009

Chamber Honored with Three KCCE Awards

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has earned three more awards to add to its list of accomplishments for 2009. After recently being named the top Chamber in the nation within its size category by the American Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber has been acknowledged by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE) for its website, 2008 Chamber Celebration Day and newsletter.

"KCCE was proud to recognize Bowling Green Area Chamber for their outstanding achievements of this past year. Competition in all the categories was tough," commented Ali Crain, ACE, IOM, executive director of KCCE. The Chamber competed against larger chambers including Greater Louisville, Inc.; Commerce Lexington, Inc. and the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce for these awards.

"2009 has been an amazing and memorable year for the Chamber and community!" said Tonya Matthews, ACE, IOM, Chamber vice president operations. "Even though I expected our Chamber would have a good chance at several of the top awards, I was surprised when we took every award in our division."

Since the complete redesign of www.bgchamber.com in spring 2008, the Chamber has strived to make the website easy to utilize and navigate for partners and the public. Jessica M.L. Thompson, communications director, said, "From the Buyer's Guide to our Facebook fan page, we are continually making efforts to interact and connect, and I'm thrilled that our hard work has been recognized!"

"We're pleased to receive recognition by our KCCE peers," agreed Chamber President and CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD. "We are honored anytime that we are ranked favorably when measured against like-size chambers."

With partnership appreciation always at a forefront of the Chamber's efforts, it is an honor for the 2008 Chamber Celebration Day to be named a KCCE award-winning event. The day's message spanned across the region and beyond, as Chamber partners joined together and promoted the long list of recent Chamber accomplishments. Live radio remotes were on site, provided by WAY-FM, WCVK, WUHU, WOVO, WPTQ 103 The Point and 100.7 SAM FM. Bruster's served ice cream to those who visited the Chamber to join in the festivities.

The final award received by the Chamber was Best Newsletter for the Chamber Connection, which provides the Chamber's more than 1,300 partners with valuable information about Chamber events and programs, economic development successes and exposure opportunities.

"Our Chamber staff works very hard to provide excellent programs, materials and events for our 1,300+ partners. Without their expertise, and the support of our board, Ambassadors and volunteers, such recognition would not be possible," said Chamber Chairman Todd Davis. "We're grateful for everyone's continued support and proud to be earning recognition among our peers in the Commonwealth."

Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Bowling Green MSA Shows Positive Growth Rate

10/2/2009

Bowling Green MSA Shows Positive Growth Rate

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-New statistics released by the U. S. Bureau of Economic Analysis show that the Bowling Green Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is growing faster than nearly three-fourths of all metropolitan areas in the United States in terms of real gross domestic product (GDP), despite a downturn in the economy.

From 2007 to 2008, the Bowling Green MSA saw a 2% positive growth in real GDP, ranking the MSA in the top 25th percentile for growth compared to the entire 368 MSAs in the nation. The real GDP grew from $3.76 billion in 2007 in the MSA to $3.837 billion in 2008. The real GDP rate from 2006 to 2007 was 2.6% in Bowling Green.

"The BEA's new statistics are encouraging news for Bowling Green," said Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker. "It's reassuring to know that our work in economic development is continuing to bring positive results despite a challenging economy."

Since January 2007, South Central Kentucky has witnessed 57 new and expanding industry announcements with a reported capital investment of more than $229 million and 2,631 additional jobs when full employment is attained. The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has participated in 35 of those 57 announcements, with an investment of $138.9 million and the creation of 2,091 jobs.

"The Chamber continues to focus its economic development efforts on bringing more new jobs to the South Central Kentucky region, whether through attracting new industries or expanding established industries," explained Todd Davis, 2009 Chamber Board of Directors Chairman. "We're proud to see that the latest GDP statistics show the positive results of this work."

Bowling Green also demonstrated the highest growth rate in Kentucky with the exception of the Clarksville, TN-KY MSA, which saw a growth rate of 4.6%. The Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin, TN MSA grew 1.5%. Other surrounding MSAs grew at the following rates:

Elizabethtown: 1.4%
Lexington-Fayette: 0.9%
Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH: 0.7%
Cincinnati-Middletown, OH-KY-IN: 0.1%
Owensboro: -0.6%
Evansville, IN-KY: -1.1%
Louisville-Jefferson County, KY-IN: -1.3%

"It's a testament to the strength of South Central Kentucky when we hear about results such as these," said Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon. "To be the MSA with the second-highest growth rate in the state is a real honor, one that Bowling Green well deserves because of the consistent and effective economic development work that is accomplished here."

Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be the 2009 Chamber of the Year, as named by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 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 and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Berry Plastics Corporation is Chamber's 2009 Industry of the Year

10/1/2009

Berry Plastics Corporation is Chamber's 2009 Industry of the Year


Chamber Chairman Todd Davis congratulated Berry Plastics Corporation employees at a news conference on October 1st. Pictured are (left to right): Human Resources Manager Greg Jones, Quality Manager Rick Powell, Chamber Chairman Todd Davis, Plant Manager Terry Wix, Controller Boyd Truelove, and Human Resources Assistant Brandy Meers.

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY- The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce believes in the importance of recognizing the value of industries' contributions to the local economy. Since January 2008, South Central Kentucky has witnessed 19 new and expanding industry announcements with a reported capital investment of more than $64 million and 767 additional jobs when full employment is attained. The Chamber has participated in 13 of those 19 announcements, with an investment of $45 million and the creation of 753 jobs.

That's why October is deemed Industry Appreciation Month for South Central Kentucky-a celebratory month of events designed to recognize industries' key impact on economic growth in the region. The Chamber kicked off a month of celebration during this morning's news conference, during which Chamber Board Chairman Todd Davis announced that Berry Plastics Corporation (Bowling Green location) is the 2009 Industry of the Year.

"We're proud to recognize Berry Plastics for the company's commitment to employing South Central Kentucky residents at their Bowling Green facility," said Davis. "Having gone through recent expansions here, the company is a tremendous corporate citizen, and we're happy to honor them this October."

Terry Wix, Bowling Green plant manager, added, "Berry Plastics is both excited and honored to be named the 2009 Industry of the Year. We are proud of the 185 associates that make up the Berry Plastics family and their contributions to our corporate and community success. We're all proud to call South Central Kentucky our home. We express our thanks to Todd and to the Chamber for their desire to recognize the quality organizations that exist in this region and for their efforts in support of local industry in a variety of ways."

The Chamber will honor Berry Plastics and other local industries at the Industry Appreciation Banquet on Tuesday, October 27, at Sloan Convention Center. This year the banquet will include a keynote address by John Britt, co-author of Who Killed Change? and nationally renowned speaker. Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased online at www.bgchamber.com.

Berry Plastics, Bowling Green began operations in 1995 on a 24-acre tract of land in the South Industrial Park in Bowling Green. The state-of-the-art, climate-controlled facility, which currently employs 185 South Central Kentucky residents, covers 170,900 square feet and manufactures injection and compression molded plastic closures primarily for the food, beverage and distilled spirits industries. The Bowling Green plant produces nearly 4 billion closures annually, with sales in excess of $75 million every year.

Berry Plastics Corporation is headquartered in Evansville, Ind., and was originally established as Imperial Plastics in 1967. The company has since grown into a leading manufacturer of injection-molded plastic packaging, thermoformed products, flexible films and tapes, and coatings. Jack Berry, Sr. purchased Imperial Plastics in 1983 and soon changed the company's name to Berry Plastics. Four years later, Berry Plastics opened a second manufacturing facility in Henderson, Nev., and in 1988, acquired Gilbert Plastics of New Brunswick, N.J. Acquisitions have continued to be a part of Berry Plastics growth, with the company having acquired more than 20 other companies since the 1990s.

In 2006, Apollo Management L.P. and Graham Partners, Inc. purchased Berry Plastics Corporation, which currently has 68 United States locations, including its Bowling Green and Franklin, Ky., facilities, and other locations in Mexico, Canada, Belgium and China.

The corporation believes in playing an active role in plants' local communities, and the company and its employees are dedicated to serving local causes. Each quarter, Berry Plastics recognizes employee volunteers who donate their time and talent, without pay, to charitable organizations. These individuals are honored during Royalty Acknowledgement Days (RAD Days), and Berry Plastics donates $200 to the employees' designated charities. Some of the charities with which Berry Plastics is involved are

The American Cancer Society
March of Dimes
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

In addition to these charities, local Berry Plastics employees are involved in the Allen County Primary Center, the Bowling Green Independent School District and Warren County Public Schools.

Berry Plastics also works with local elementary schools to teach students the importance of conservation. Company representatives demonstrate how to reduce, reuse and recycle all types of materials, specifically plastic. The students then receive an activity/coloring book that was developed by Berry Plastics employees that explores reducing, reusing and recycling in more detail. Students and their teachers also tour the local Berry Plastics plant during this program.

Tickets for the Industry Appreciation Banquet are available for purchase online at www.bgchamber.com. Contact Program Director Lindsey Moyers for more information.

Halton Gift to WKU Will Create Small Business Accelerator in Allen County

9/23/2009

Contact:
Buddy Steen, 270-792-3414

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. - An Allen County corporation has created an internship program with Western Kentucky University to promote economic development within its local community.

According to WKU President Gary Ransdell, Halton Group Americas recently made a $50,000 gift, which will be matched by $50,000 through the Commonwealth of Kentucky's Regional University Excellence Trust Fund, to create the Halton Fund for Economic Development in Allen County.

"Once it is fully funded, income from $100,000 endowment will be instrumental in the start-up of the Allen County Small Business Accelerator and will solely benefit Allen County's economic development by assisting business and industry in Allen County," Dr. Ransdell explained.

Dr. Ransdell said that, on an annual basis, the Allen County Technical Innovation and Vocational Education board (ACTIVE) will determine, through a county economic development needs assessment, where each student's internship should be focused.

"The recipient of the scholarship and internship may come from different disciplines, depending upon the county's needs, providing flexibility and truly making the program interdisciplinary," Dr. Ransdell said. "The program will be managed by a partnership between the WKU Foundation and the WKU Small Business Accelerator."

Halton Group Americas President Rick Bagwell said it is a strongly held belief at Halton that a good company always gives back to the community in which it is located. "The community itself is a stakeholder within the company, and the community should prosper due to the locating of our operations within it," he explained.

Bagwell said this endowment will benefit the Allen County community in four distinct ways:

By developing a small business incubator/accelerator within Allen County, aspiring entrepreneurs will have a structured environment in which to develop and evolve their ideas into successful small businesses and draw on the vast resources that WKU has established to assist in this process.
By assisting in the creation of small business, the city and county will further develop their tax base and be more competitive in the search and location of new businesses to the region.
By working through the ACTIVE Consortium and supplying needs assessments, existing businesses will be able to identify operational needs and garner free resources to further strengthen company operations and become even more competitive in their particular marketplaces -- making employment even more secure within the region.
By adding the program, WKU gives its students an accredited avenue through which to garner real-world experience for post-graduate job placement, and gives aspiring students from Allen County another avenue to receive financial aid in their endeavors for secondary education.

Buddy Steen, executive director of the Small Business Accelerator at WKU's Center for Research and Development, said that the Farmer's National Bank in downtown Scottsville is being considered as one of the possible locations for the Accelerator.

"The facility will have the capacity to host a number of small businesses and will be modeled after the successful Small Business Accelerator we have in Bowling Green," he said. "It will offer a place for companies to start immediately with commercial fiber-optic connectivity and other resources. These businesses will be able to draw from local, regional, state and federal the resources. For example, WKU's four-year fully-accredited engineering program provides an essential technology-based workforce for companies that will be starting and growing in Allen County. Additionally, we have other programs at WKU such as our applied research programs that can be leveraged to start and grow companies. Bottom line: The Allen County Small Business Accelerator will create opportunities and jobs for Allen County and Scottsville."

Bagwell said WKU was a logical partner for this program, as it demonstrated the ability to make a large impact with the available resources. "WKU has proven, time and time again, its own commitment to our communities, our children, and to the advancement of our region as a whole," he said. "The expertise within the WKU team in looking at the advantages and disadvantages of gift applications ensures that the resource given will be optimized to receive the greatest impact.

"If you want to gain insight into the role WKU is playing in regional economic development, one need look no farther than the WKU Small Business Accelerator, located in the WKU Research and Development Center," he said. "The brainchild of WKU President Gary Ransdell and Representative Jody Richards, under the direction of Buddy Steen, the operation is a model for fostering entrepreneurship within the region. The resources and financial commitment the University displays to the economic development of the region is to be commended, and it is exciting and comforting to know that the development and operation of the Allen County site will be under the direction of the same management team."

- WKU - a leading American university with international reach -

More WKU news is available at www.wku.edu and at http://wkunews.wordpress.com/. If you'd like to receive WKU news via e-mail, send a message to WKUNews@wku.edu.

Senator Mitch McConnell Offers Insight to Community

9/21/2009

Senator Mitch McConnell Offers Insight to Community


Senator Mitch McConnell

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY--Western Kentucky University's Constitution Week concluded with an insightful presentation by U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell this morning at WKU's Carroll Knicely Conference Center. As part of its legislative action program, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce partnered with WKU to support this event.

The Kentucky senator discussed international issues and signed copies of John David Dyche's book, The Republican Leader: Political Biography of Senator Mitch McConnell. More than 75 people attended the event, sponsored by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, WKU Office of the President and the Political Science Department. In addition, Atmos Energy, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Warren County Water District and Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation sponsored the event.

Dr. Saundra Ardrey, coordinator of the Political Engagement Project and chair of the Political Science Department, says, "This week's theme, The Constitution: Global Encounters, challenged departments across the campus to present activities that highlighted the influence freedoms and rights guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution have had on countries around the world."

"The Chamber's theme this year is 'Many faces. One voice.' Today's presentation represents that theme," explains Chamber Chairman Todd Davis. "By presenting facts regarding current international issues that our nation is facing today, Senator McConnell gives our Chamber partners and members of the WKU community an opportunity to learn more about political discussions in Washington."

All higher education institutions that receive federal funds from the Department of Education are required to implement an educational program relating to the United States Constitution on September 17th each year. The celebration of the Constitution at Western Kentucky University is not limited to a single day. The Department of Political Science and the Political Engagement Project coordinated activities throughout the week, culminating with Senator McConnell's presentation. Additional events included an exhibit at the University Libraries, a panel discussion on "The Global Roots of the American Constitution" sponsored by the History Department and a presentation by the Political Science Department titled "The Influence of the U.S. Constitution on Latin American Constitutions." The Music Department also played national anthems and international folk music from Guthrie Bell Tower.

"The Chamber is proud to participate in events such as this to work toward our mission of providing valuable services for our partners, advocating a positive business environment and stimulating economic growth for South Central Kentucky," said Marc Elliott, CEcD, AICP, Chamber vice president for property development and public policy. "Senator McConnell has been a strong advocate for South Central Kentucky, and we're grateful that he spent time with our community members and Chamber partners today."

Southern Economic Development Council Honors Chamber with Two Awards

9/11/2009

Southern Economic Development Council Honors Chamber with Two Awards

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-In addition to being named the American Chamber of Commerce Executives' Chamber of the Year, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that the organization has earned two 2009 Communication Awards from the Southern Economic Development Council, Inc. (SEDC) in the categories of Thinking Outside the Box and Printed Reports. The SEDC awards recognize, reward and celebrate the accomplishments of effective communication programs and campaigns.

"It is a great honor for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce to receive two awards from the SEDC," said Chamber Board Chairman Todd Davis. "We ranked among large chambers such as Baton Rouge and Orlando, so we're very proud of our achievement. I am very pleased to know that we have been acknowledged for our success by SEDC, the oldest and largest regional economic development association in North America."

The 2009 SEDC Annual Conference was held in Point Clear, Ala., on August 15-18, where the award-winning materials were displayed. In the Thinking Outside the Box Category, the Chamber earned a Merit Award for its Apple iPod^(r)* Touch Treasure Hunt Campaign, a successful marketing campaign designed to reel in site selectors to the South Central Kentucky website. The goal was to familiarize the consultants with the area, demographics, etc. by asking 200-500 site location and industry professionals each quarter to take an online quiz about www.southcentralky.com. The Chamber randomly chooses a winner from those who complete the quiz and presents that winner with an Apple iPod^(r) Touch as a gift, along with South Central Kentucky marketing materials.

"One of the keys to successful economic development programs is maintaining top-of-mind awareness about our program with site selection professionals, who work with dozens of industries interested in finding a location for an office or manufacturing facility, or a warehouse/distribution center," explained James N. Hizer, CEcD, president and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.. "The Treasure Hunt gives us that awareness by reaching out to professionals in the industry and encouraging them to visit our website, which contains information about our location, our regional partners, and available sites and buildings."

The Chamber also received a merit award in the category of Printed Reports for its automotive business case, which fulfills a goal outlined in the South Central Kentucky Marketing Plan. The report showcases the automotive industry and activity in South Central Kentucky and is used as a marketing material to inform prospects about the existing automotive suppliers in the area. It includes research and information on 56 vehicle-related facilities as well as information on the workforce and training.

Dan Preston, vice president of economic development, said, "Marketing materials are essential to attraction projects for site selectors and potential investors in the area. We use effective communication and marketing materials to convey an outline of what we have to offer in South Central Kentucky and to also help our regional partners, expanding our reach and offerings."

"I'm happy to know that our marketing materials stand out from the crowd," added Davis. "Gaining attention by site selectors and companies is a vital part of bringing in potential development prospects looking for facilities in the South Central Kentucky area."

About SEDC
SEDC is a non-profit membership organization governed by a Board of Directors and Executive Committee. Tracing its roots to the fall of 1946, the Southern Economic Development Council is the oldest and largest regional economic development association in North America. They have members in 17 states in the American South. For more information, visit www.sedc.org.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce was named the 2009 American Chamber of Commerce Executives' 2009 Chamber of the Year as it serves as 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. For more information, visit www.bgchamber.com.

*Apple is not a participant or sponsor of Apple iPod^(r) Touch Treasure Hunt Campaign.

Kentucky Transpark Breaks Ground for Speculative Building

9/10/2009

Kentucky Transpark Breaks Ground for Speculative Building

Rick Wilson, chairman of the Intermodal Transportation Authority Board of Directors, gave remarks at today's Transpark Speculative Building groundbreaking. Also speaking at the event were, from left, CEO of Scott, Murphy, & Daniel, LLP Mike Murphy; Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon; Chamber Chairman Todd Davis; Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker; and Bowling Green Area Economic Development Authority Chairman Doug Gorman.

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Officials from Warren County and the City of Bowling Green, along with members of the board of directors for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, the Bowling Green Area Economic Development Authority (BGAEDA) and the Intermodal Transportation Authority (ITA), celebrated the groundbreaking of the Kentucky Transpark speculative building today during a ceremony attended by more than 50 people.

"The spec building is a tremendous asset for the Kentucky Transpark. As an example of what can be built at the Transpark, this building will become the highlight of prospective client tours and for our marketing efforts," said Rick Wilson, chairman of the ITA Board of Directors.

"Not only are we proud that this building will help attract new clients, but also we're happy to announce that its construction is a partnership with the Bowling Green Area Economic Development Authority," he added.

A state-of-the-art addition to the Transpark, the speculative building-a pre-engineered steel structure with steel-insulated panels-will be located on 10 acres of land next to Cannon Automotive Solutions, Inc., at the corner of Jody Richards Drive and Commonwealth Boulevard. The building is meant to provide an example of what can be built at the Transpark, and it can be leased or sold to prospective Transpark tenants for their own purposes.

"Over half of the attraction clients with whom we come into contact are seeking existing buildings," explained James N. Hizer, CEcD, president of the ITA and BGAEDA, as well as president and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. "The spec building can be easily customized to meet a tenant's specific needs."

Hizer continued, "A building such as this will elevate our competitiveness in bringing more high-paying jobs to the Transpark. The communities that we compete with for projects on a regular basis have spec buildings like the one we are constructing. By having such a building at the Transpark, we're leveling the playing field and giving companies one more reason to locate at this impressive business park."

The heavy-industrial-zoned building will meet all standards of the American Institute of Steel Construction. The building's floor area is 72,000 square feet, with an expandable area of an additional 45,000 square feet. Its dimensions are 300 feet by 240 feet. Additional specifications of the building include:

Building eaves: 38 feet high
Roof: steel-standing, seam-insulated panels
Concrete foundation
Floor: concrete slab over 4" dense grade aggregate
Two rows of columns; columns spaced at 40 feet by 100 feet
Cross dock capable; 12 docks planned for east & west elevations
Basic water, sewer and electrical installed for completion to tenant specifications
Gas available on site
Fiber optic communications available on site

The building architect is Ken Lasley, AIA; the building contractor for the project is Scott, Murphy & Daniel, LLP; the site contractor is Stewart-Richey Construction, Inc.; and the site engineer is DDS Engineering, PLLC. The City-County Planning Commission of Warren County approved the detailed development plan for the project.

"The BGAEDA is pleased to be a part of today's groundbreaking for the Transpark spec building. The Transpark is already a very attractive business park for prospective tenants, and the spec building only enhances its appeal," said BGAEDA Board of Directors Chairman Doug Gorman. "This will be yet another reason for us to promote the Transpark as it contributes an enormous value to our first-class business park."

For more information about the speculative building and the Transpark, contact Vice President of Property Development and Public Policy R. Marc Elliott, CEcD, AICP at 270-781-2016 or marc@bgchamber.com.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce was named the American Chamber of Commerce Executives' 2009 Chamber of the Year as it serves as the idriving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. 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.

Congressman Brett Guthrie Provides Insights to Chamber

9/3/2009

Congressman Brett Guthrie Provides Insights to Chamber

More than 90 Attend Legislative Action Committee's Washington Update


	Congressman Brett Gutrie spoke to more than 90 Chamber partners at Thursday's Washington update.

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-At Thursday's Washington Update, United States Congressman Brett Guthrie offered insights about current legislation to partners of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.

More than 90 Chamber partners attended the event, held at the Chamber headquarters, and sponsored by Jim Johnson Nissan - Hyundai. Chamber Chairman Todd Davis said, "We host Washington Updates such as this one as an opportunity for our partners to have face-to-face contact with our representatives in Washington, and we're grateful for Congressman Guthrie's presence here today."

Congressman Guthrie gave remarks on several issues currently dominating conversations in the legislature. He discussed the stimulus package, alternative energy and healthcare reform, explaining his views on the subjects and focusing his attention on how they will impact South Central Kentucky. Particularly, he stressed how the next generation-our children and grandchildren-will be responsible for the decisions that are made in Washington today. He explained that his goal is to find ways to not take away from the next generation or make it more difficult for our children and grandchildren to thrive in the United States.

Answering questions from the audience as well, Congressman Guthrie addressed inquires about the financial industry, Medicare, insurance for those with pre-existing medical conditions, and the medical industry as a whole. He also shared anecdotes about his freshman year in Congress, living in Washington, and the inauguration of President Barack Obama.

"The Chamber thanks Congressman Guthrie for visiting us this morning to address these issues," said Davis. "Many people consider the politics of Washington to be irrelevant to their everyday lives, but these issues will affect us daily."

Today's Washington Update was hosted by the Chamber's Legislative Action Committee. Floral arrangements were provided by Broadway Florist, and Insight Communications recorded the event. The Washington Update will be replayed on Insight Channel 5 per the following schedule:

Tuesdays, September 8, 15 and 22 at 8 p.m.
Wednesdays, September 9, 16 and 23, at 6 p.m.
Fridays, September 11, 18 and 25, at 11:30 a.m.
Sundays, September 13, 20 and 27, at 4:30 p.m.

The Chamber thanks Jim Johnson Nissan - Hyundai, Broadway Florist and Insight Communications for their assistance in making today's event a success.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
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.

Chamber Hosts Successful Welcome Back WKU Festival

9/2/2009

Chamber Hosts Successful Welcome Back WKU Festival

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, along with many of its partners, spent Wednesday, September 2, welcoming Western Kentucky University students back to campus.

The annual Welcome Back WKU Festival connects Chamber partners with university students. To showcase their services and products, more than 40 Chamber partners set up booths, greeted students, and presented giveaways to thousands on WKU's South Lawn, taking an opportunity to reach the student population.

"Our community welcomes thousands of WKU students back to Bowling Green every August," said Chamber Board Chairman Todd Davis. "The Chamber knows that our partnership benefits from being in front of these students during the first week of classes. Those partners participating in Welcome Back WKU enjoy having a chance to meet so many students in such a venue as we provided on Wednesday."

Partners received increased exposure with live radio broadcasts and media coverage.

For more information about Welcome Back WKU and other Chamber programs, contact Program Director Lindsey Moyers at 270-781-3200 or lindsey@bgchamber.com.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

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.

Celebrating the #1 Chamber in North America

8/26/2009

Celebrating the #1 Chamber in North America

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Hosts Chamber of the Year Celebration

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Tuesday was a landmark day for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce as more than 100 board members, Ambassadors, staff and partners attended a Chamber of the Year Celebration Day. The group had much to celebrate: the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) has recognized the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce as Chamber of the Year during ACCE's annual conference held in Raleigh, N.C., thereby declaring it the top chamber of its size in the United States and Canada.

Having announced the Chamber's award earlier this month at a news conference, Chamber staff and board members decided to host an official celebration day in honor of this achievement.

"This award would not have been possible without the support of our entire partnership," said 2009 Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Todd Davis. "We're so grateful for everyone's continued involvement in the Chamber, and thereby in our business community. We're proud of the work we do, and it's a great day when we're able to recognize our achievements."

Representatives from local, state and national government offices were present to congratulate the Chamber. Catherine Hamilton, City of Bowling Green mayor pro-tem, read a proclamation on behalf of the City of Bowling Green and the County of Warren, declaring August 25, 2009 a day of celebration. Also, Field Representative Jeff Belcher from Governor Steve Beshear's office read a proclamation from the governor and congratulated the entire organization.

Mark Lord, district director for U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie; Jim Askins, field representative for U.S. Senator Jim Bunning; and Sandra Potter, field assistant for U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, also shared the legislators' congratulations and appreciation for the hard work and dedication displayed by the Chamber on behalf of the entire region. Congressman Guthrie, Senator Bunning, and Senator McConnell will ask for congratulations to the Chamber to be entered into the official floor records once the legislature reconvenes.

The Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM) and several past Chamber Board of Directors chairs sponsored yesterday's events. Along with KAM Vice President of Marketing and Revenue Ken Carroll, past Board chairs giving toasts were Charles Moore, Harold Brantley, Wendell Strode, Doris Thomas, Kevin Brooks, H.B. Clark, Curt Sullivan, Ron Sowell, Rick Wilson, Mary Cohron and Doug Gorman.

For more information about the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.bgchamber.com or call 270-781-3200. Photos from yesterday's event can be found on the Chamber's Facebook fan page.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
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.

2009 Bowling Green & South Central Kentucky Magazine Receives ADDY Award

8/14/2009

2009 Bowling Green & South Central Kentucky Magazine Receives ADDY® Award

Contact:
Jessica Thompson, Communications Director
781-3200, jessica@bgchamber.com

BOWLING GREEN, KY— The 2009 edition of the “Bowling Green & South Central Kentucky” magazine, produced by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with CommunityLink, has been awarded a prestigious honor from the American Advertising Federation (AAF).

AAF’s annual “ADDY®” awards recognize and honor published marketing materials for excellence. The 2009 “Bowling Green & South Central Kentucky” magazine, which provides an overview of the business, educational, health, government and recreational highlights of the South Central Kentucky region, won the Silver ADDY® Award for Direct Marketing in the “Business to Business Consumer” category.

“More than 15,000 copies of the magazine are distributed annually promoting our region to potential new residents and businesses looking to locate in a community like ours. To have our publication receive this top-of-the-line designation reinforces that the product effectively communicates the many attractive aspects of our region,” said Vice President of Chamber Operations Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE.

“The Bowling Green Area Chamber is one of our longest-standing partners, and we're proud to work with them on producing their annual magazine, which is one of our 'flagship' publications,” said Craig Williams, founder and CEO of CommunityLink.

Sales for the 2010 Bowling Green Magazine advertisements are currently underway. Chamber partners can contact steve.graff@communitylink.com or 1-800-455-5600 Ext. 2004 to be included in this publication.

About the ADDY Awards:
The American Advertising Federation (AAF) headquartered in Washington, D.C., acts as the “Unifying Voice for Advertising.” The AAF is the oldest national advertising trade association, representing 50,000 professional in the advertising industry. The AAF has a national network of 200 ad clubs located in ad communities across the country. Through its 215 college chapters the AAF provides 6,500 advertising students with real-world case studies and recruitment connections to corporate America. The AAF also has 130 blue-chip corporate members that are advertisers, agencies and media companies, comprising the nation’s leading brands and corporations.

About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce:
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.

Alley-Cassetty Brick Announces Grand Opening of New Bowling Green Office

8/13/2009

Alley-Cassetty Brick Announces Grand Opening of New Bowling Green Office

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

BOWLING GREEN-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the grand opening of Alley-Cassetty Brick’s new location today at 2777 Griffin Drive in Bowling Green.

“I'm pleased to congratulate Alley-Cassetty Brick on the grand opening of their new distribution center in Bowling Green,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “The company's successful growth in the community will not only add immediate capacity, but will position Alley-Cassetty Brick for future job growth and investment.”

“This is another great day in Bowling Green-Warren County!” Chamber Board Chairman Todd Davis said. “We're proud to be home to Alley-Cassetty and look forward to a long relationship with the company and its employees."

According to Inc. Magazine, Alley-Cassetty Companies, Inc. has cultivated its diversified business units into one of the fastest growing companies in the south. Today, the company ranks as one of Nashville’s largest private 100 companies, having experienced tremendous growth since its beginning in the 1880s.

In an effort to corner the Nashville market for residential coal supply, the longstanding family businesses of Cassetty Coal Company and Frank Alley Coal Company merged in 1964. Since that merger, the coal division has transitioned into commercial and industrial supply, allowing Alley-Cassetty to enter the brick and related material delivery business in 1971 by purchasing Capitol Builders Supply. The building supply division now encompasses 10 offices in Tennessee, Kentucky and Georgia with a premier portfolio of manufacturers of both residential and commercial products.

In 1980, Alley-Cassetty established its third business unit, Alley-Cassetty Trucking Division, which has flourished into a full-service hauler, specializing in hazardous and non-hazardous customized transportation. Also in 1980, the company opened Custom Truck Sales and Service (now Alley-Cassetty Truck Center), a full-service dealership offering commercial sales and service.

Alley-Cassetty Brick opened its Bowling Green location in November 1995.

Mayor Elaine Walker said, ”We’re thankful for Alley-Cassetty’s commitment to the area and excited to see what the future will bring for them.”

“Having a company of this caliber as a corporate citizen is truly an honor,” Warren County Judge Executive Mike Buchanon said. “This is an exciting project for Warren County, the City of Bowling Green and the entire region and we celebrate Alley-Cassetty’s continued investment in South Central Kentucky.”

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Named #1 in the Nation

8/4/2009

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Named #1 in the Nation




	Chamber of the Year Award presented by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives.

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.

Chamber Promotes Jennifer Ford to Director of Project Administration

7/30/2009

Chamber Promotes Jennifer Ford to Director of Project Administration

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that Jennifer Ford will now serve as the Chamber’s director of project administration. In this position, Jennifer will be responsible for managing economic development projects, implementing the marketing plan, and coordinating economic development special events, among other responsibilities.

“Jennifer is a very talented individual, and she will continue to bring great strength to the South Central Kentucky partnership,” said Dan Preston, Chamber vice president of economic development. “With years of experience in economic development and event planning, Jennifer will continue to play a large role in our efforts to attract and retain industries.”

Ford joined the Chamber in November 2004 as the economic development coordinator. Prior to joining the Chamber, Ford worked for the Madisonville-Hopkins County Economic Development Corporation.

Ford is a graduate of Western Kentucky University, the Kentucky Institute for Economic Development and the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute. She is also an active member of the Kentucky Association for Economic Development.

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Hosts Fourth Annual DC Fly-In

6/16/2009

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Hosts Fourth Annual DC Fly-In

Contact:
Jessica Thompson, Communications Director
781-3200, jessica@bgchamber.com

The DC Fly-in participants visit with Representative Brett Guthrie.

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Local leaders throughout the region, Western Kentucky University affiliates, and members of the Board of Directors of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce spent several days in Washington D.C. last week discussing South Central Kentucky's legislative priorities with members of the Kentucky congressional delegation.

Hosted by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and led by Chamber Board Chairman Todd Davis, the fourth annual South Central Kentucky Washington DC Fly-in was held on June 9-11.

"The DC Fly-in is an additional legislative effort on behalf of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and our Board of Directors to reach out to our legislative delegation on behalf of the Chamber partnership," said Chamber president and CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD. "The time we spend in Washington not only gives us the opportunity to present our priorities and positions on significant federal issues, but it also gives us the opportunity to thank the legislators who have worked hard to make positive changes for South Central Kentucky.”

Fly-in participants who traveled to our nation’s capitol had the opportunity to spend time with Senators Mitch McConnell and Jim Bunning along with Congressmen Brett Guthrie, John Yarmuth, Hal Rogers, Ed Whitfield, Ben Chandler and Geoff Davis.

“The Washington DC fly-in is a great opportunity for Chamber partners to thank our legislators for all of the work they do on behalf of our community and region,” said Todd Davis, 2009 chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors. “It is also a chance to have a dialogue with our senators and congressmen about issues that impact our business climate.”

Issues discussed included the key congressional priorities identified by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Topics ranged from the opposition of the Employee Free Choice Act to support for free trade agreements with Columbia and South Korea. Participants also discussed the funding for the Corps of Engineers to repair the Rochester Dam on the Green River, funding for the Corps of Engineers to study raising the level of Barren River Lake to improve the water supply of Bowling Green and other regional communities, the funding of additional master planning for the Kentucky Transpark, and additional funding for Western Kentucky University initiatives.

“We appreciate the time and attention our legislators in Washington give us each year to discuss our views and needs,” said Marc Elliott, vice president of property development and public policy. “It is certainly time well spent.”

Chamber Announces New Program Director

6/9/2009

Chamber Announces New Program Director

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that Lindsey Moyers will now serve as the Chamber’s program director. In this position, Moyers will be responsible for a variety of Chamber committees and programs, including Leadership Bowling Green.

“Lindsey is a very talented individual and she will bring great strength to the program director position,” said Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE, Chamber vice president, operations. “With past experience in marketing and event planning, we’re confident in her ability to succeed in this new role.”

Moyers is a 2003 graduate of Western Kentucky University, having received a Bachelor of Arts degree in corporate and organizational communication and marketing. From 2002 to 2004, she served as an associate and intern for Riherds.com, coordinating the company’s marketing efforts and website maintenance, as well as providing customer support. Moyers then joined Paul Davis Restoration in 2004 as marketing coordinator, a position in which she was responsible for the local franchise’s marketing plan and several events including a golf tournament and continuing education courses.

Most recently, Moyers worked for Commonwealth Health Corporation (CHC) as a marketing/development coordinator. During her three years at CHC, she coordinated a variety of activities and events including the 10K Classic, Children in the Arts, and the Charity Ball. She also assisted with marketing campaigns for various service lines, administered scholarship programs and was responsible for the Commonwealth Health Foundation donor database.

Moyers is a member of the Professional Marketing Association, Young Professionals of Bowling Green, and March of Dimes. She regularly volunteers for the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, Bowling Green Warren County Community Education, Junior Achievement of South Central KY, and the Kidney Foundation. She is a member of Greenwood Park Church of Christ.

“We’re eager to watch Lindsey apply her skills to her new role,” said Todd Davis, 2009 Chamber Board chairman. “With her years of experience and her high energy, she will be a great asset to the Chamber staff and board, our many volunteers, and the partnership as a whole.”

South Central Kentucky Hosts Tour for Site Selectors

6/5/2009

South Central Kentucky Hosts Tour for Site Selectors

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY—For three days this week, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce economic development staff and South Central Kentucky partners played host to site selectors from across North America, showcasing the region’s assets to these professionals. Leaders from throughout the region, along with representatives from the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and the Tennessee Valley Authority, also participated in the three-day event.

"Each year site selection firms work with dozens of industries interested in finding a location for an office or manufacturing facility, or a warehouse/distribution center. Maintaining top-of-mind awareness with these site selection professionals is integral to marketing South Central Kentucky," explained Chamber President & CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD. "By hosting six professionals for a three-day tour of our region, we’re not just displaying our assets—we’re also reinforcing positive relationships with these men and women whose job it is to identify ideal locations for new industries."

Upon arrival on Tuesday, June 2, six site selectors were escorted to a Bowling Green Hot Rods baseball game against the Lexington Legends. After visiting the Kentucky Transpark on Wednesday morning, they boarded helicopters for an extensive tour of the South Central Kentucky region.

"I particularly enjoyed the aerial tour of the South Central Kentucky region," said Joan Herron of Herron Consulting in Atlanta. "When collaborating on economic development or site selection projects with regional economic development groups, it’s important for those in my profession to understand what the entire region offers. With assets in rural and metropolitan areas, South Central Kentucky is an attractive location for business."

"The extensive regional tour supported our enhanced regional marketing efforts by showcasing what the entire region has to offer. From Tompkinsville to Morgantown, we visited all nine partner counties, demonstrating to our visitors that South Central Kentucky offers an array of locations and assets for new industries," said Miller Slaughter, Chamber director, regional development.

The group spent Wednesday evening at a networking reception at the National Corvette Museum. After a 5-minute networking session and panel discussion on Thursday morning, the tour ended with a round of golf at Olde Stone and other recreational activities.

"The Chamber’s staff and partners clearly know how to make visitors feel at home. I’m often asked to participate in tours such as this, but I can truly say that the past three days have been some of the best I’ve experienced during my career as a site selection professional," said Gregg Wassmansdorf of Colliers International in Toronto. "While meeting and networking with local leadership from South Central Kentucky, I found the cooperation among communities strong and was impressed with the infrastructure, resources, and business-friendly focus of the region."

The Barren River Area Development District and Warren Regional Electric Cooperative Corporation provided financial assistance to the Chamber for the tour. "This tour would not have been possible without our event sponsors," said Chamber Chairman Todd Davis. "BRADD’s and Warren RECC’s financial support helped us deliver a first-class event, and we thank them for their assistance."

Chamber's Website and Annual Report Receive ACCE Communication Excellence Awards

6/4/2009

Chamber's Website and Annual Report Receive ACCE Communication Excellence Awards

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

Tonya Matthews, VP Chamber Operations
270-781-3200; tonya@bgchamber.com

BOWLING GREEN, KY—The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has earned two 2009 Awards for Communication Excellence from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) 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.

The Chamber was recognized with an Excellence Award for Electronic Communication for its website, www.bgchamber.com. Having undergone a complete redesign of the website in 2008 as an effort to revitalize the site and provide more information to partners and visitors, the Chamber was thrilled with the recognition by ACCE. Chamber Vice President of Operations Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE said, “Since the redesign, the website has now won both state and national Excellence Awards. The Chamber received the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives Excellence Award for Best Website at the fall 2008 conference. Now, in a national competition, bgchamber.com receives an ACCE’s Communication Excellence Award—that’s exciting news!”

Chamber Chairman Todd Davis said, “I think one of the judge’s comments sums it up best. ‘The submission was impressive! The usability of the site proves this is a forward-thinking Chamber. A great feature is the global JOIN button. The media room is also very innovative. Their clear and thorough submission is a reflection of the obvious diligent process to create a quality product. This was clearly a staff-led project, but they also had input and involvement from the partnership. Well done!’”

The Chamber received a Special Publication Award for its 2007 Annual Report. President & CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD echoed Davis’ comments upon reviewing the judges’ scores. “These awards have been tough for our Chamber to win in previous years. Until last year we were typically Merit and Honorable mention winners. This year one judge scored our Annual Report submission as a 99% and the overall accumulated score totaled 97%. That tells me that our communication piece effectively promoted our year’s accomplishments to our Chamber partners, which is an important key in partnership retention and illustrating the return on their investment.”

As the only national association serving the professional development needs of chamber executives in the United States and Canada, ACCE currently represents more than 7,800 professional members in 1,400 chambers of commerce.

“Every year it is an enlightening experience for the judges to view the diverse and resourceful programs that chambers are producing, and we are proud of the contributions that your work has made to your community,” said ACCE Education and Member Relations Associate Jay Snyder.

Governor Beshear Announces TMS Automotive, LLC to Begin Operations in Bowling Green

6/2/2009

Governor Beshear Announces TMS Automotive, LLC to Begin Operations in Bowling Green

Start-up company to create 35 new jobs, invest $2.505 million

Contact:
Mandy Lambert; 502-564-7670
Jessica M.L. Thompson; 270-781-3200; jessica@bgchamber.com

FRANKFORT, KY – Gov. Steve Beshear and Economic Development Cabinet Interim Secretary Larry Hayes today announced TMS Automotive, LLC will establish a new operation in Bowling Green. The start-up automotive company will offer value-added manufacturing to customers in the region including Metalforming and Dana Corporation.

“The start-up of TMS Automotive is a wonderful addition to the Bowling Green community and the entire Commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “Kentucky is well-known for its strong automotive roots and TMS Automotive is a perfect fit to our corporate landscape. We look forward to continuing our partnership as the company grows and prospers here in south central Kentucky.”

Approximately 35 new jobs will result with the location of TMS Automotive, whose process includes removing an unwanted residue from metal, acquired through stamping, then applying a rust prevention coating. The project will entail a capital investment of $2.505 million.

“TMS is eager to locate a facility in Bowling Green-Warren County because of the strong state and community support we have received during the decision-making process,” said Michael R. Hall, president of TMS Automotive, LLC. “Our location here will allow us to best serve our automotive industry partners located in the area.”

The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority preliminarily approved TMS Automotive for tax benefits up to $260,000 under the Kentucky Industrial Development Act, an incentive program designed to attract and expand manufacturing employment to the state.

“We’re very excited to watch TMS Automotive’s growth in Bowling Green,” said Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker. “By locating here, this company will create 35 new jobs within two years—jobs that will support the local automotive industry.”

“It’s another great day in south central Kentucky when we can make an economic development announcement such as this,” said Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon. “By creating 35 new jobs and nearly $2.2 million in capital investment, TMS Automotive is solidifying its commitment to economic growth in our region.”

“The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce congratulates TMS Automotive on their decision to locate a facility here. We thank them for their commitment to our region and our workforce,” said Todd Davis, 2009 Chamber Board Chairman.

A community profile for Warren County can be viewed at http://thinkkentucky.com/EDIS/cmnty/index.aspx?cw=067.

The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development is the primary state agency in Kentucky responsible for creating new jobs and new investment in the state. New business investment in Kentucky in 2008 totaled over $1.8 billion with the creation of more than 11,500 new jobs. Information on available development sites, workforce training, incentive programs, community profiles, small business development and other resources is available at www.ThinkKentucky.com.

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.

Senator McConnell Provides Chamber Partners with Washington Update

5/29/2009

Senator McConnell Provides Chamber Partners with Washington Update

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY- U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell offered insight into current U.S. legislation when he spoke to the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, May 26, during a Washington Update. More than 100 Chamber partners attended the event, which was held at the Chamber headquarters. Cambridge Market & Café sponsored the day’s luncheon.

“The Chamber is proud to host events like the Washington Update to promote legislative awareness among our Chamber partners and the community,” said Marc Elliott, CEcD, AICP, Chamber vice president for property development and public policy. “Senator McConnell has been a strong advocate for South Central Kentucky, and this event gave the Chamber and partners an excellent opportunity to thank him.”

Senator McConnell discussed the recent nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court, saying Senate Republicans will “…treat Judge Sotomayor fairly. But we will thoroughly examine her record to ensure she understands that the role of a jurist in our democracy is to apply the law even-handedly, despite his/her own feelings or personal or political preferences.”

“I enjoyed getting the chance to meet with the Chamber to discuss both national and local issues that are important to the Chamber partners, as well as all Kentuckians,” Senator McConnell said.

Senator McConnell also updated the Chamber on President Obama’s proposed budget and the president’s pledge to close the Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp.

“It is a privilege to have Senator McConnell represent Kentucky in such a prominent way on the national stage,” said Chamber Chairman Todd Davis. “A Washington Update such as this is an additional effort in which the Chamber is helping to give our partnership an understanding of current legislation in Washington. We appreciate the opportunity to have Senator McConnell share his views with our Chamber partners.”

Insight Communications recorded the event, which will replay on Insight Channel 5 at the following times:

* Fridays, May 29, June 5, June 12 at 9:30 a.m.
* Saturdays, May 30, June 6, June 13 at 12:30 p.m.
* Sundays, May 31, June 7, June 14 at 6:30 p.m.
* Mondays, June 1, June 8, June 15 at 6:00 a.m.
* Tuesdays, June 2, June 9, June 16 at 11:30 a.m.
* Wednesdays, June 3, June 10, June 17 at 6:30 p.m.
* Thursdays, June 4, June 11, June 18 at 9:30 p.m.

Innovative Partnership Receives National Recognition

5/8/2009

Innovative Partnership Receives National Recognition

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

Stacey Biggs, Western Kentucky University
270-745-1926; stacey.biggs@wku.edu

BOWLING GREEN, KY--An innovative partnership between Western Kentucky University, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, and several partner companies has brought recognition for excellence from across the southeastern United States.

Uniting Industries, Sharing Costs, Building Successes — A Training Consortium Project was awarded the 2009 ACHE South Distinguished Non-Credit Program Award by the Association for Continuing Higher Education (ACHE) South Region. The Consortium provides effective training for Warren County industries at a nominal cost and holds training locally with minimal interruption to the work schedule. Local industries maintain a minimal investment to gain access to valuable training for their employees.

According to the ACHE criteria for the award, winning programs are judged on innovation, creativity, success, impact, and adaptability. “The committee was very impressed with the quality and scope of the project and we are pleased to recognize its excellence,” according to Dan Connell, chair of the awards committee.

The prestigious award, given to one college or university annually, was presented to representatives of WKU on April 28, at the ACHE South Awards luncheon in Baton Rouge, La. Manon Pardue, director of the Center for Training & Development, and Sharon Woodward, director of Continuing Education, accepted the award on behalf of WKU and the numerous partners involved.

The project began in 2004 with three companies joining together to provide training for their employees. Through the Bluegrass State Skills Corporation (BSSC), the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development made training affordable with grant funding, offsetting approximately 50 percent of training costs. Through the persistent efforts of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce economic development staff, the consortium has been able to secure grant funds on an annual basis. “We’re proud to have been a long-term supporter of this project,” said Dan Preston, Chamber vice president of economic development, “because of the cost-effective training and support Consortium member employees receive. By supporting the Consortium, we are supporting workforce skill enhancement for existing industries in our region.”

“I’ve been a part of a lot of good programs that provided great service for a period of time,” said Pardue. “This program is sustainable because of the strong partnerships. Of those partners, Bando, NASCO, and Sumitomo and their representatives are instrumental in the success and longevity of the program.”

In 2008, the consortium began offering non-credit online training courses to its members through Continuing Education at WKU. The online format provides added appeal, allowing the flexibility needed in today's changing workforce. Courses are offered on a quarterly basis and range in scope from accounting principles to customer service to management and supervision.

“This program is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished using a team approach," Woodward said. “In fact, colleagues are asking for advice about how to replicate the program in their areas.”

According to Dr. Don Swoboda, dean of the Division of Extended Learning and Outreach, “The award for this innovative partnership is one example of the value DELO brings to WKU. Partnerships are the key to our success.”

The ACHE South Region has member institutions in 10 states as well as Jamaica and Puerto Rico. For information on ACHE, go to www.acheinc.org.

For information about the Industrial Training Consortium, contact Manon Pardue at 270-745-1919. For more on Continuing Education, contact Sharon Woodward at 270-745-1910.

Center for Training & Development and Continuing Education are units of the Division of Extended Learning & Outreach (DELO).

State Legislators Provide Chamber with Session Wrap-Up

4/21/2009

State Legislators Provide Chamber with Session Wrap-Up


	State Representative Jody Richards, along with Representatives Jim DeCesare and Wilson Stone, and Senator Mike Reynolds, provided a Legislative Wrap-Up to Chamber partners today.

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-In support of its legislative action efforts, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a Legislative Wrap-Up today. Kentucky State Representatives Jim DeCesare, Jody Richards and Wilson Stone, along with State Senator Mike Reynolds were the speakers for the event, which included breakfast provided by Mrs. Winner's.

The wrap-up, coordinated by the Chamber's Legislative Action Committee, provided Chamber partners with a face-to-face meeting with state legislators. Each legislator provided a summary of key bills that will affect the South Central Kentucky region. The topics they addressed included education reform, economic development, agriculture, road plans and cyber crime.

Todd Davis, 2009 chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors, was pleased with the event. "We're very grateful that Representatives DeCesare, Richards and Stone, and Senator Reynolds, were willing to speak to our Chamber partners today. They provided insight into the work that was completed during this session and what will continue to be done in the special session, should it be called."

The legislators took questions from the crowd after they finished their presentations. One question that arose was how the local community can help the legislators better represent the region. The consensus among Representatives DeCesare, Richards and Stone, and Senator Reynolds, was that this community shows excellent support for their work in Frankfort by sharing opinions and providing input into proposed legislation. Representative Richards said, "This community does a great job of keeping us informed about what is important to them."

Insight Communications recorded the Legislative Wrap-up and will air it on Insight Channel 5.
The Legislative Wrap-up will be replayed at the following times:

Thursdays, April 23 and April 30, at 9:30 a.m.
Fridays, April 24 and May 1, at 7 p.m.
Saturdays, April 25 and May 2, at 12:30 p.m.
Sundays, April 26 and May 3, at 5:30 p.m.
Mondays, April 27 and May 4, at 11 a.m.
Tuesdays, April 28 and May 5, at 9:30 p.m.
Wednesdays, April 29 and May 6, at 2:30 p.m.

The Chamber thanks Mrs. Winner's for sponsoring the breakfast, along with Insight Communications for recording the event.

Senator Bunning Provides Chamber Partners with Update

4/10/2009

Senator Bunning Provides Chamber Partners with Update


	Chamber Chairman Todd Davis (left) and U.S. Senator Jim Bunning

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-United States Senator Jim Bunning offered insights into current U.S. legislation when he spoke to the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, April 9, during his Washington Update, which was sponsored by Jim Johnson Nissan Hyundai, at the Kentucky Museum on Western Kentucky University's campus.

"Washington Updates such as this one provide Chamber partners with an opportunity to learn about federal legislation firsthand from officials like Senator Bunning. One of our goals is to help our partners learn more about legislation that will affect them, and Senator Bunning's presentation helped us in meeting that goal," said Chamber Chairman Todd Davis. "The event on Thursday also gave us a special chance to thank Senator Bunning for all that he does for South Central Kentucky."

Senator Bunning touched on issues dominating conversations in the U.S. Senate at this time, particularly financial bailouts, the mortgage crisis, and affordable education, as well as proposed legislation for card checks and universal healthcare. During his remarks, he shared his concerns over the increasing level of debt the United States is facing-$12.5 trillion currently. He warned against the government continuing to spend money at an unsustainable rate and spoke about the work of the Federal Reserve.

"We're proud to host events like the Washington Update to promote legislative awareness in our community," said R. Marc Elliott, CEcD, AICP, Chamber vice president for property development and public policy. "We appreciate Senator Bunning taking time out of his schedule to visit the Chamber and Bowling Green because he affords us an opportunity to learn more about the activities in Washington that will influence our local community."

The Chamber's Legislative Action Committee hosted this Washington Update. Insight Communications recorded the event, which will replay on Insight Channel 5 at the following times:

Mondays, April 13 and 20, at 12 p.m.
Tuesdays, April 14 and 21, at 7:30 p.m.
Thursdays, April 16 and 23, at 10 a.m.
Saturdays, April 18 and 25, at 1 p.m.
Sundays, April 19 and 26, at 5 p.m.

Joe Davis Named 2009 Small Business Person of the Year

4/8/2009

Joe Davis Named 2009 Small Business Person of the Year


	Chamber Chairman Todd Davis (left) and 2009 Small Business Person of the Year Joe Davis

Contact:
Jessica M.L. Thompson, Communications Director
270.781.3200; jessica@bgchamber.com

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that Joe Davis, president and owner of Gerald Printing, is the 2009 Small Business Person of the Year.

"Joe is extremely active in our community, from his involvement with the Chamber to his support of the Commonwealth Health Foundation," said Chamber Chairman Todd Davis. "We're very proud to announce that Joe is the 2009 recipient of this honor because of his community involvement and the strength of his business. He sets an example of what a small business leader should be."

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has awarded a member of the community with the "Small Business Person of the Year" honor since 1985. This award recognizes a community member who owns and operates a for-profit company that employs 100 or fewer full-time employees, who has invested his or her own money in that small business, who has experienced recent business growth, and who is involved in the development and growth of the Bowling Green community.

Originally from Princeton, Ind., Davis completed his bachelor degree in accounting and mathematics at the University of Evansville. He began his professional career at the Indianapolis office of Arthur Andersen & Co., before enlisting in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. After returning from military service, Davis obtained his Master of Business Administration degree in finance from Indiana University along with his certified public accountant credentials when he rejoined Arthur Andersen & Co.

In 1976, Davis began working for Best Lock, a commercial lock manufacturer. While with Best Lock, he became corporate controller, then president of the Los Angeles subsidiary during which he spent four years in southern California, and later the vice president of marketing in Indianapolis.

Davis purchased Gerald Printing in 1996 when he and his family moved to the Bowling Green area. Since joining the community, he has participated in and chaired several committees for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. He is a 2005 Leadership Bowling Green graduate and an Ambassador. He was president of the Ambassadors Club in 2005 and was named Ambassador of the Year that same year. Through his leadership, Gerald Printing holds a business-education partnership with Drakes Creek Middle School, and the company received the Rookie of the Year Award in 2005 and the Spirit Award in 2006 for this partnership.

"Joe is always willing to support Chamber programs and offer their assistance," said Program Director Beth Oliphant. "We're fortunate to have such an outstanding business leader in our midst."

Among Davis' other community activities, he is involved with the Noon Rotary Club, the Professional Marketing Association, the Hilltopper Athletic Foundation, the Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital Board, the Salvation Army Advisory Board and the Breakfast Club of the Commonwealth Health Foundation. Davis has served on the Business Relations Committee for the Commonwealth Health Foundation and as chair of the local Salvation Army Advisory Board.

Under Davis' leadership, Gerald Printing is a great contributor to the community. The company is involved with the Scottsville-Allen County Chamber of Commerce and has been named Member of the Year for that organization in the past. Gerald Printing sponsors two annual scholarships for Western Kentucky University students-one for a junior or senior WKU student majoring in graphic arts and one for a high school student who intends on enrolling in the business school at WKU. Gerald Printing supports a variety of other charities through sponsorships, including The Medical Center 10K Classic, the United Way Festival of Trees, Potter Children's Home, the YMCA "We Build People" Campaign, the Hilltopper Athletic Foundation Corvette Raffle, and a treatment room at the Clinical Education Complex.

Gerald Printing has received numerous awards from the printing industry, including a Premier Print Award, Quick Printing Magazine's Annual Top 100, the Professional Marketing Association's Markie Awards, Certified Printers International Awards, Carlson Craft Distinguished Dealer Award, and the Simpson Paper Company Award of Excellence for developing sheets of Gerald Repro Bristol to make limited edition art print reproductions. Gerald Repro Bristol is recognized in the printing industry as an exceptional type of uncoated, embossed paper.

Davis and wife Sharon have been married for more than 40 years. They have two children, Jason and Joy, and one granddaughter, Kelsey Noelle. Jason lives in Bowling Green, and Joy is married, lives in Denver, and is busy parenting Kelsey Noelle. Davis and Sharon enjoy singing in their church choir, reading and travelling to Denver.

Past recipients of the Small Business Person of the Year Award are:

Carl Chaney (2008)	Jim Smith (2007)
David Chandler (2006)	Chris Thompson (2005)
Tim Earnhart (2004)	Janet Henderson (2003)
Jim Johnson (2002)	Steve Sheldon (2001)
Doug Gorman (2000)	Curt Sullivan (1999)
David Bradford (1998)	Mike Murphy (1997)
Joe Natcher (1996)	Al Baker (1995)
David Wiseman (1994)	Rick Kelley (1993)
Harold Brantley (1992)	Mike Buchanon (1991)
Bill Jackson (1990)	Cornelius Martin (1989)
B.J. Booth (1988)	Carroll Hildreth (1987)
Sandy Jones (1986)	Johnny Webb (1985)

"We received a number of excellent nominations for the Small Business Person of the Year Award this year. All nominees are certainly worthy of recognition for their work in their businesses and in the community," said Oliphant. Other nominees for the 2009 award were

Bud Agnew, director of S&R Tire, Inc., and Wes McAdams, president of S&R Tire, Inc. (joint nomination)
Thad Connally, III, president and owner of First Choice Home Medical
Dr. Oles Drobocky, owner of Drobocky Orthodontics
John Drott, owner of Allstate Insurance - Family Protection Group
Jack Sheidler, owner of Greenwood Properties, LLC
Steve Sheldon, owner of Sheldon's Express Pharmacy

Davis will be formally honored at the Small Business Luncheon on Tuesday, May 5, at 11 a.m. at the Carroll Knicely Conference Center. This event is the highlight of Small Business Appreciation Week, which is organized by the Chamber's Small Business Appreciation Committee. Tickets are $25 per person or $200 for a corporate table of eight. President's Club partners at the Gold, Platinum and Diamond Levels may purchase tables for eight at $180. To register, visit the Events page on bgchamber.com. For more information, contact Beth Oliphant at 270-781-3200 or beth@bgchamber.com.

2008 Wage and Benefits Survey Results Announced

4/8/2009

2008 Wage and Benefits Survey Results Announced

Contact:
Debbie McCarty, Director of the Barren River Workforce Investment Act
Barren River Area Development District
270-781-2381; debbie@bradd.org

Jessica M.L. Thompson, Communications Director
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
270-781-3200; jessica@bgchamber.com

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The results of the 2008 Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM) Wage and Benefits Survey were released today at a news conference at the Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) Office in Bowling Green. BRADD, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the South Central Kentucky regional partnership sponsored the survey, along with financial supporters Barren Industrial Development Economic Authority (IDEA), Edmonton-Metcalfe Industrial Development Commission, Logan Economic Alliance for Development (LEAD), and Scottsville/Allen County Industrial Development Authority.

KAM has administered the wage and benefits survey since 1911. Jim LeMaster, KAM president and CEO, emphasized the importance of the survey results, saying, "Now, more than ever, it is vitally important that KAM helps you control costs, especially in the all important wage and benefits area. We compete with low-wage nations like China, India and Mexico and must always ensure we are compensating our employees fairly and competitively with peer companies. If you pay more than market, it can unnecessarily cost you thousands of dollars. If you pay less than market, good, well-trained employees will leave your company and go elsewhere."

One hundred forty-seven organizations participated in KAM's 2008 Wage & Benefit Survey, contributing wage information for more than 25,000 exempt and non-exempt employees. The survey was conducted by IQS Research of Louisville (www.iqsresearch.com), and information was collected and compiled during the period of September 2008 through February 2009.

The Kentucky manufacturing industry is, by more than a two-to-one margin, the number one contributor to the state gross product, producing $29 billion in goods and accounting for 19 percent of Kentucky's Gross Domestic Product. The industry employs about 248,000 workers.

Debbie McCarty, director of the Barren River Workforce Investment Act at BRADD, is pleased again this year to be a sponsor of the KAM 2008 Wage and Benefits Survey, saying that the information provided throughout the survey is an excellent guide and information resource tool to be used by our regional industries.

This is the second year that the South Central Kentucky regional partnership has co-sponsored the survey. Miller Slaughter, director, regional development for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, said, "The Chamber and the South Central Kentucky partnering organizations were pleased to be a part of this survey once again this year. We work hard to provide valuable resources for our existing industries and for those looking to locate here, and this survey is one such resource."

The survey findings are broken down by nine geographic regions and by state. The Southern Kentucky region included 16 counties: Adair, Allen, Barren, Butler, Christian, Cumberland, Edmonson, Green, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, Taylor, Todd and Warren. Fifty-one companies in the Southern Kentucky region participated in the survey. Some of the results from their participation are as follows:

The 40-hour workweek is still the most frequently indicated standard among the respondents, with 74.5% indicating this as the norm.
When asked about the number of shifts worked, 43.1% said three shifts, 29.4% said two shifts, and 7.8% said one shift.
The respondents reported fairly low turnover rates in 2006, with 43.1% of the companies reporting turnover rates between 1-10% annually. Another 17.6% reported turnover rates between 11- 20%, and 13.7% of companies reported turnover rates between 21-30%.

Visit www.kamanufacturers.com for information on how to obtain a copy of the 2008 KAM Wage and Benefits Survey.

Bowling Green Ranked Again as a Top Place for Business and Careers

4/2/2009

Bowling Green Ranked Again as a Top Place for Business and Careers

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Once again the Bowling Green metropolitan area has been recognized for its positive business environment. Forbes Magazine listed Bowling Green as No. 19 in its recently announced Best Small Places for Business and Careers on www.forbes.com.

"I'm proud to see that Bowling Green has again been recognized by this prestigious magazine for the business and career opportunities we offer here," said Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker. "Forbes provides more evidence for what we already know--that Bowling Green is a great place to live, work and raise a family."

This is the second year in a row that Bowling Green has appeared on the list. Forbes determines these rankings based on cost of labor, energy, taxes and office space, and the magazine provides rankings on cost of doing business, job growth, educational attainment and metropolitan area size. In terms of population, the list includes metro areas ranging from 56,000 to 239,000.

"The workforce in Bowling Green-Warren County is one of the best in the nation," said Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon. "As we continue our economic development efforts throughout South Central Kentucky, the recognition we receive is due to the strength of our business community."

"Recognition in publications like Forbes and Site Selection Magazine, in which we were ranked last month, gives our community valuable publicity on a national scale," explained Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman Todd Davis. "This type of recognition affirms that our work in the region is paying off as we maintain a strong workforce through our recruitment, expansion and training efforts."

To learn more about Forbes' rankings, visit
http://www.forbes.com/lists/2009/5/bizplaces09_Best-Small-Places-For-Business-And-Careers_Rank.html.

Chamber Celebrates Volunteer Appreciation Month in April

4/1/2009

Chamber Celebrates Volunteer Appreciation Month in April

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY - In celebration of Volunteer Appreciation Month, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes its many volunteers for their support of the organization.

Last year approximately 62 million Americans volunteered around 8 billion hours of their time to community service projects. In the local community volunteers dedicate themselves to not only helping those in need, but also to improving the quality of life for all South Central Kentucky residents.

The Chamber is one of the many organizations that benefits from volunteer efforts. "Our Chamber has achieved national recognition in large part due to our more than 300 volunteers who dedicate thousands of hours each year to our efforts. When we were recognized as one of the Top Three Chambers in the Nation by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives last year, that honor was because of our volunteers and the support that they give us," said Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE, vice president of Chamber operations.

Pooling our volunteers' talent and dedication creates results that truly have an impact on our community," said Program Director Beth Oliphant. "From volunteering at the Chamber Golf Challenge to serving on our board or in our Ambassadors Club, our volunteers make a difference, and our appreciation for our volunteers extends well beyond Volunteer Appreciation Month."

Chamber President & CEO James N. Hizer agreed. ""I am always amazed at the generosity of our volunteers. Our board, Ambassadors, committee members and other volunteers are the life-blood of our organization. It is through their support and commitment to our core mission that we have been able to maintain such a high level of success and recognition."

The Chamber extends its sincerest gratitude and appreciation to all who have volunteered their time for the betterment of the community and the Chamber. The success of this organization is a direct result of volunteers who strive to create a better community for all.

"As this year's board chairman, I have witnessed firsthand the impact that volunteers have not only on the Chamber but also on South Central Kentucky. It is important that we recognize those who donate their time and energy in an effort to make our organization a success," said Todd Davis.

Chamber Invites Partners to Attend the 2009 South Central Kentucky Washington DC Fly-in

3/20/2009

Chamber Invites Partners to Attend the 2009 South Central Kentucky Washington DC Fly-in

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Representatives of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce will travel to Capitol Hill in June during the fourth annual South Central Kentucky Washington DC Fly-in. Chamber partners are encouraged to consider participating in this event, which is designed to promote the region's legislative needs to our congressional delegation.

"I emphasized our increased legislative action efforts when I announced my 2009 theme of Many faces. One voice," said Todd Davis, 2009 chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors. "The Fly-in is one of our biggest events of the year, and we hope our partners will join us in Washington as we meet with our senators and congressmen."

This year's Fly-in will be held on June 9-11, during which the Chamber will hold meetings with key members of South Central Kentucky's congressional delegation.

"Decisions made every day in Washington impact the lives of South Central Kentucky residents and our individual businesses. The Fly-in is an opportunity for the Chamber to share our successes and challenges with our congressional leaders, building top-of-mind awareness for those who represent us on a federal level," says James N. Hizer, CEcD, Chamber president and CEO.

Chamber partners are encouraged to join the Chamber in Washington on June 9-11. The participation fee for Chamber partners is $950 and $1,150 for non-Chamber partners. This fee covers a two-night stay, four meals and the registration fee. Travel is not included.

For more information or to register for the Fly-in, contact Program Director Beth Oliphant at 270-781-3200 or beth@bgchamber.com.

Small Business Development Center Provides Resources for Distressed Businesses

3/18/2009

Small Business Development Center Provides Resources for Distressed Businesses

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

Adam Brownlee, Center Director
270-745-1924; adam.brownlee@wku.edu

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce encourages its partners to explore the many business resources available throughout the community, including those offered by the Kentucky Small Business Development Center (KSBDC), which has a branch office on Western Kentucky University's campus. The KSBDC is now offering consulting for distressed businesses with one to 500 employees.

As part of its economic development efforts in assisting existing businesses, the Chamber works closely with WKU and other resources to provide information to our 1,300+ partners. Dan Preston, Chamber vice president, economic development, said, "It's important for us to make our partners aware of the resources available, especially those for small businesses that may not otherwise hear about what's out there. The Small Business Development Center at WKU offers tremendous value through its services, particularly in a time when we are hearing more and more about businesses that are in distress."

Adam Brownlee is the center director for the Small Business Development Center at Western Kentucky University. He emphasizes that small businesses may find themselves in need of more services given today's economic climate, and KSBDC can provide that assistance at a low cost, sometimes even at no cost to the companies. "Distressed companies face an uphill battle when determining strategies for restoring profitability," he explained.

"The management consultants at KSBDC are a valuable and low-cost resource for distressed companies and their stakeholders," said Brownlee. "Depending on a company's needs, we offer a flexible approach that is designed to improve business operations and financial performance."

For example, Brownlee explains, KSBDC works proactively with commercial loan clients to address management issues, thereby reducing bank charge-offs and delinquency numbers. Consultants work with the client's management team to provide constant guidance that allows the distressed company to navigate its way out of distress. Overall, KSBDC works with the distressed loan customer to

Manage the crisis situation and restore stability for the business
Review expenses, credit relationships and cash flows
Develop cash management and debt restructuring plans
Define a new strategy based on market analysis, competitors and core competencies
Develop a new business plan for going forward
Identify methods for improving organizational structure and staffing levels
Develop reorganization plans and forecasts of future performance
Identify key performance measures and track progress weekly

The KSBDC's assistance is designed to position the client company for survival by enabling the company to

Continue operations while managing debt
Reshape the organization for improved efficiencies and profitability
Realign expenses
Improve operational performance
Foster development of new management methods to control and manage the business

The KSBDC and its branch offices like the one at WKU provide access to capital, management expertise and growth strategies for start-ups, as well as existing and struggling businesses. By delivering high quality, in-depth and hands-on business consulting to start-up and existing businesses, the KSBDC creates both wealth and jobs, and strengthens Kentucky's economic health. A complete listing of the KSBDC's consulting services can be found at this link.

"The Small Business Development Center provides a valuable resource for businesses," said Todd Davis, chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors. "The Chamber is proud to support such an organization's efforts and to provide information about its offerings to our partners."

For more information about the KSBDC's office at WKU, call 270-745-1924 or visit www.wkusbdc.com.

Bowling Green Ranked Again by Site Selection Magazine

3/10/2009

Bowling Green Ranked Again by Site Selection Magazine

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-In its national rankings released on March 9, Site Selection magazine recognized the Bowling Green metropolitan area for its number of industry locations and expansions in 2008. Bowling Green was listed as 8th in the nation among metropolitan areas with populations under 200,000. This is the second year in a row Bowling Green has been ranked in the magazine's Top 10 rankings.

Having announced six industry locations and expansions in 2008, Bowling Green tied for 8th place with Owensboro, Ky.; Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford, Va.; Dubuque, Iowa; Elkhart-Goshen, Ind.; Muskegon-Norton Shores, Mich.; and Tuscaloosa, Ala.

"It is an honor to once again be recognized in this well-known publication," said James N. Hizer, CEcD, president and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. "To have another Top 10 ranking is a real testament to the competitiveness of Bowling Green and the entire South Central Kentucky Region. Since 2004, we've created more than 6,600 new jobs and $800 million in economic investment. That's an outstanding achievement for this region."

Site Selection publisher Conway Data's yearly analyses are regarded as "the industry scoreboard" by corporate real estate analysts. The magazine's circulation base consists of 44,000 executives involved in corporate site selection decisions. To determine the rankings, Site Selection utilized Conway Data's database to track industry location and expansion projects on a state and metropolitan area level. Qualified projects include those that meet at least one of three criteria: (1) involve a capital investment of at least $1 million, (2) create 50 or more jobs, or (3) add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor space.

"Site Selection is the premier magazine for economic development professionals," said Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker. "We're proud to be recognized in such a nationally renowned venue like this publication because of the top-of-mind awareness it creates for professionals throughout the field."

Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon agreed. "To be ranked once again in the Top 10 is an impressive honor, one that is deserved by all of South Central Kentucky because our regional partnership plays such a strong role in attracting site selectors."

In total, new and expanding industries in South Central Kentucky created 1,326 direct jobs and 276 indirect jobs last year. These industries are investing $44.8 million in capital and providing a total of $100.9 million in local economic impact to the region.

"On behalf of the entire Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, I'd like to congratulate our economic development staff for this achievement, which would not be possible without their hard work and innovative approach to economic development," said Todd Davis, 2009 chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors.

Site Selection placed Kentucky 9th in the nation for its annual Governor's Cup rankings; this ranking marks Kentucky's highest placement in the ranking since the inception of the Governor's Cup. The ranking is based on a state's total number of qualified projects as tracked by Conway Data Inc.'s New Plant database. During 2008, Kentucky generated 162 projects that met the database requirements. In total, 280 location or expansion announcements were reported in Kentucky resulting in 11,536 net new jobs created. Investment was estimated at more than $1.8 billion. Kentucky has the smallest population of any state ranked in the top 10.

A total of eight smaller Kentucky communities were also listed in the magazine's Top Micropolitan Ranking. Frankfort (T14), Paducah (T26), Danville (T41), Glasgow (T41), Madisonville (T41), Campbellsville (T65), Murray (T65) and Somerset (T65) made the 2008 Top Micropolitans list.

The article and rankings can be viewed in their entirety at www.siteselection.com.

Simpson Goodman Receives 2009 ATHENA Young Professional Award

3/4/2009

Simpson Goodman Receives 2009 ATHENA Young Professional Award

Contact:
Jessica Thompson, Communications Director
781-3200, jessica@bgchamber.com

Laura Simpson Goodman (left) accepted the
ATHENA Young Professional Award from
Amber Martin, a representative for
Martin Automotive Group.

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce presented the ATHENA Young Professional Award to Laura Simpson Goodman, program manager for Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky, during a news conference and reception hosted by Martin Automotive Group at the Martin Cadillac Building on March 3.

"Laura is truly deserving of this award," said Todd Davis, chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors. "She is a dedicated young professional who is deeply involved in community and Chamber programs, and she demonstrates a real desire to make Bowling Green a better place for all."

The ATHENA Young Professional Award, which is an extension of the ATHENA Award, was introduced at the ATHENA International Conference in Chicago in April 2007. The Young Professional Award recognizes an emerging leader in the community who demonstrates the following leadership skills:

provides valuable service to his or her business or profession and to the community
exhibits initiative and creativity
exemplifies and upholds the goals of the professional woman
clearly serves as a role model for young women personally and professionally

"The Chamber believes in ATHENA International's philosophy of incorporating the talent and expertise of women into the leadership of our businesses, our communities and our government, and we are proud to present the ATHENA Award and the ATHENA Young Professional Award to leaders within our community," said Beth Oliphant, Chamber program director.

The Chamber is the only organization in Kentucky to honor a community member with the ATHENA Young Professional Award. After having presented the ATHENA Award to community members for 23 years, the Chamber is proud to have added the Young Professional Award to their program opportunities in 2008, when Jana Sublett received the inaugural award. The Chamber is able to present both awards because of the generous support of Martin Automotive Group.

"Martin Automotive Group has sponsored the ATHENA Awards since the Chamber first presented the prestigious honor in 1986. We're proud to expand the tradition by sponsoring the Young Professional Award because we believe in the importance of recognizing those outstanding young professionals who help women achieve success in the workplace and in the community. Laura is a tremendous example of what this award represents," said Amber Martin of Martin Automotive Group.

Simpson Goodman is a 2005 graduate of Western Kentucky University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in public relations with a minor in women's studies. While at WKU, she was named Outstanding Senior Public Relations Student. Prior to her current position at Junior Achievement, she served as an AmericCorps VISTA at CASA and an advocate at Hope Harbor, and she worked in University Relations as a WKU student.

As program manager for Junior Achievement, Simpson Goodman administers and manages all school programs and volunteer recruitment in Cumberland, Edmonson, Logan, Simpson and Warren Counties. She has been instrumental in growing local Junior Achievement programs by 12%, and she has helped to grow the Chamber's Work Ethic Seal program, expanding it from one county to now five throughout the region. She received the JA Peak Performance Team Award and the Silver Summit Award for the past two years; both awards are presented by Junior Achievement Worldwide. In 2008, she was recognized as one of four Junior Achievement associates worldwide with the Rising Star Award, which is given to mid-level staff members who are emerging leaders within the organization.

Simpson Goodman is very active in community organizations such as the Professional Marketing Association, the Warren County Chapter of WKU Alumni and the Workforce Development Committee of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. She is a 2007 graduate of Leadership Bowling Green and a member of the Leadership Bowling Green Alumni Association. She is part of the Citizens Committee for the Warren County Regional Juvenile Detention Center and a member of the Chi Omega Sorority Advisory Board and Housing Corporation. She is also involved with the Bowling Green Humane Society.

Through her work at Junior Achievement, Simpson Goodman has become involved with the chambers of commerce in Logan and Simpson Counties, as well as the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. She served as a deejay for a Simpson County Chamber of Commerce radio program, and she often gives presentations to local Rotary, Kiwanis and Society of Human Resource Management organizations.

According to Simpson Goodman's nomination form, which was submitted by Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky President Heather Rogers, Simpson Goodman "is a strong advocate for women and clearly serves as a role model to other young women through her work with Junior Achievement, the Juvenile Detention Center and Chi Omega sorority. She always gives 110% in her endeavors."

"We had an excellent group of nominees for the ATHENA Young Professional Award this year," said Oliphant. "All are deserving of recognition for their work in our community." Other nominees for this year's ATHENA Young Professional Award were

Melanie K. Cook - Individual Chamber partner and senior employment attorney for Dollar General Corporation
Elizabeth Heller - Career counselor for Western Kentucky University
Kristi Miller Smith - Manager of business services for Holland CPAs, PSC
Nancy Mitchell - Manager, valley relations for Tennessee Valley Authority

Chamber Encourages Partners to Explore SCORE Resources

2/26/2009

Chamber Encourages Partners to Explore SCORE Resources

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

Bill Huff, SCORE Kentucky District Director
502-582-5976

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce partners with the local chapter of the Service Corps of Retired Executives Association (SCORE) to provide business leaders and entrepreneurs with business counseling and education. Currently, the Chamber and SCORE are offering a free business review and planning session for Chamber partners.

"Nearly 90% of our Chamber partners are small businesses," said Chamber Board Chairman Todd Davis. "We recognize that some partners may be looking for services just like those offered by SCORE. We're happy to partner with this organization to offer valuable resources to our partners."

SCORE volunteer experts have experience in a wide range of business areas, including strategic planning, cash flow management, financial assessments, sales forecasting, sales pipeline planning and business mentoring.

"Small businesses feel the credit crunch first. We have seen difficulty accessing capital and collecting payments from customers," said SCORE CEO Ken Yancey. "Don't wait. Now is the time to meet with a SCORE mentor to make plans to tighten credit policies, cut expenses and look at holding cash in your accounts. Experienced SCORE mentors are here to help you plan actions to survive the recession and grow when the economy turns around."

SCORE Branch Manager Ed Adkins encourages businesses to contact him at 502-582-5976 to set up an appointment to meet with a SCORE volunteer. For more information, interested parties can also visit www.score-kentucky.org. Adkins also provides the following small business survival tips from SCORE:

Don't panic. Be calm and realistic as you review your business. Focus on the fundamentals and what you can control about your business. Look for new ways of doing business. Your competitors may be struggling too. Take steps to make sure your business survives.
Consult your mentors. Get feedback from informal advisors you trust. Ask SCORE for advice and meet to review the health of your business. Plan for a profitable year in 2009, even with potentially little or no growth.
Look for local funding. Contact your city, county or state governments when you seek capital. Sometimes there are programs with grants or loans in specific industries. Many economic development offices have programs for qualified small firms. Community banks also may be a source for a line of credit. A solid business plan can help you make your case.
Find ways to cut costs. Monitor cash flow weekly. Cut overhead and hold the line on price increases. Make sure you have good collection policies and diligently seek timely payment. Keep good records of your inventory and be careful not to overstock your shelves.
Continue your marketing. This is the time you need marketing the most. It reassures your customers that you are still there to serve them, and it can help you reach new markets to sustain your business. Visit your existing clients to find out how their needs may have changed. Adjust your product and service mix to meet changing demand.

Chamber Announces 2009 Leadership Bowling Green Class

2/25/2009

Chamber Announces 2009 Leadership Bowling Green Class

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the names of those invited to participate in the 2009 Leadership Bowling Green Program. The class will be made up of 30 business leaders who actively participate in the Bowling Green community.

Leadership Bowling Green is an eight-month leadership training program sponsored by the Chamber. Participants are selected through an application process by the Leadership Bowling Green Advisory Board. Participants in the 2009 Leadership Bowling Green Program are:

Lee Baldock Olde Stone, LLC		Joe Dan Beavers LifeSkills, Inc.
Brian Becker Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central KY		Stacey Biggs Western Kentucky University
Matt Coffey BKD, LLP		Nick Cook Barren River Area Development District
Kelley Dick First Christian Church		John Drott Allstate - Family Protection Group
Scott Duvall Holland CPAs, PSC		Jonathan Estes Humana
Mike Hall Bowling Green Municipal Utilities		Tonia Harris Citizens First
Lynn Hartley City of Bowling Green		Lindsay Hinton Reynolds, Johnston, Hinton & Pepper, LLP
Patty Kantosky Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation		Travis Keller PBI Bank
Andrew Mikovch U.S. Bank		Chris Minix Christopher D. Minix, Attorney at Law
Tad Pardue Bell, Orr, Ayers & Moore, PSC		Laura Petrino American Red Cross South Central KY Chapter
Samantha Propp English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP		Don Sergent Warren County Board of Education
Amanda Shaff American Bank & Trust Company, Inc.		Ann Smith Mary Kay Cosmetics - Ann Smith
Joshua Smith Bowling Green Warren County Community Education		Cody Tellis BB&T
Oren Wilson Bank of Edmonson County		Courtney Wise Earnhart + Friends Advertising
Crystal Wolfe National City - PNC Bank		Nellie Woodyard South Central Bank of Bowling Green, Inc.

Jon Schubarth of Warren County Water District will serve as the program chair for 2009. Michelle Disney of National City - PNC Bank will be the program co-chair. Schubarth said, "It's very exciting to begin a new year of Leadership Bowling Green. The students we've chosen are an excellent group, and I'm looking forward to seeing what new leadership skills they gain as they go through the program."

Chamber Program Director Beth Oliphant oversees Leadership Bowling Green. "We had an impressive group of applicants once again this year. I commend the Advisory Board for narrowing down those applications to 30, which is always a difficult job. I'm looking forward to working with the class, as well as with Jon and Michelle."

"Leadership Bowling Green is one of the most popular and successful programs that the Chamber offers," said Chamber Board Chairman Todd Davis. "Its reputation is strong because of the commitment given by the staff, volunteers and advisory board members that oversee the program. We're proud to offer our partners with an opportunity to learn more about the community and to strengthen their leadership skills."

Governor Beshear Announces the J.M. Smucker Company to Bring 25 Additional Jobs to Scottsville

2/13/2009

Governor Beshear Announces the J.M. Smucker Company to Bring 25 Additional Jobs to Scottsville

Contact:
Mandy Lambert; 502-564-7670
Jessica M.L. Thompson; 270-781-3200; jessica@bgchamber.com

FRANKFORT, KY - Gov. Steve Beshear and Economic Development Cabinet Interim Secretary Larry Hayes today announced J.M. Smucker LLC will add a new production line to its Scottsville plant, investing $3 million dollars and creating an additional 25 jobs in the community.

"We're delighted with the positive news resulting from the success and growth of The J.M. Smucker Company plant in Allen County," said Gov. Beshear. "Kentucky is proud to partner with the company and community to bring this additional investment and jobs to the South Central Kentucky region."

The announcement comes after the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority approved J.M. Smucker LLC for tax incentives up to $550,000 under the Kentucky Rural Economic Development Act, an incentive program designed to increase manufacturing employment in the state.

Currently, 288 employees work at the Scottsville plant, which makes Smucker's Uncrustables frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. The additional line will bring a new "grab and go" waffle product to the plant.

"The addition of the new Snack'n Waffles line to our Scottsville facility will allow us to better meet the needs of our consumers while continuing to grow the successful operation already in place there," said Maribeth Badertscher, director of corporate communications for The J.M. Smucker Company. "We are pleased to be adding these 25 new jobs and to be continuing to build our strong partnership with Scottsville and Allen County."

"The Smucker's plant is a great asset for Scottsville, Allen County and the entire South Central Kentucky region, and I am excited about the new product the company will be making in Allen County," said Richie Sanders, director of economic development for Scottsville and Allen County. "By adding another 25 jobs to their facility here, they are creating more wealth for our area and are making a positive impact on our community."

"Today is a great day in our community because of Smucker's commitment to bring additional jobs to Allen County," said Jordan Clarke, chairman of the Allen County Economic Development Authority. "We're grateful to Smucker for the opportunity it is creating for our citizens."

"We are dedicated to helping our businesses and industries grow in Allen County," said Judge Executive Bobby Young. "It's a great day when we can announce that one of our longstanding industries has decided to bring more jobs to our county."

Scottsville Mayor Rob Cline agreed. "With this announcement, Smuckers demonstrates its commitment to residents of Scottsville and Allen County. We're excited that they have decided to create more jobs here, and we're very appreciative of their decision."

Allen County is part of the South Central Kentucky regional partnership, taking advantage of the enhanced marketing package offered by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.

"The South Central Kentucky partnership was formed to help bring in new industries and expand current industries throughout the entire region," said Todd Davis, chairman of the 2009 Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, "And the whole partnership is successful when an announcement comes like the one made today."

A community profile for Allen County can be viewed at http://thinkkentucky.com/EDIS/cmnty/index.aspx?cw=063.

2009 Annual Dinner is a Night for Celebration

1/30/2009

2009 Annual Dinner is a Night for Celebration


	2008 Chamber Chairman Doug Gorman (left) formally handed the gavel to 2009 Chairman Todd Davis last night.

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2009 Annual Dinner at Sloan Convention Center last night, with more than 650 local business leaders, regional partners and special guests attending the event.

Annual Dinner is the highlight of the Chamber's year, giving all who attend an opportunity to celebrate the previous year's successes and to honor the Chamber's many dedicated volunteers.

While recognizing the many special guests in attendance last night, 2008 Board Chairman Doug Gorman presented Kentucky State Representative Jody Richards with a special gift on behalf of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. "We present this gift to Representative Richards in thanks for 14 years of tremendous service as speaker of the House of Representatives," said Gorman.

President's Club partners were recognized for their support of the Chamber at its premium investment levels. "More than 60 Chamber partners participated in the President's Club in 2008," said Chamber Vice President, Operations Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE. "Their financial support is truly a salute to their commitment to economic development in South Central Kentucky."

As part of the President's Club portion of the program, Gorman announced that because of their support of the new economic development menu of services program, the Chamber's regional partners have been added to the President's Club. These additions are as follows:

Bronze Star Partners - Barren Industrial Development Economic Alliance, Hart County Industrial Authority, and Logan Economic Alliance for Development

Gold Star Partner - County of Monroe

Platinum Star Partners - County of Butler, City of Morgantown, Edmonson County Industrial Foundation

During the program, Gorman gave his final remarks as 2008 Chamber Board chairman and looked back on a year filled with success and recognition for the Chamber. "When I became chairman last January, I had high expectations for what we would accomplish, but what the Chamber has done far exceeds what I envisioned. Not only did we see new growth in the community and in business, but we also announced that the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is one of the top three chambers in the nation of its size. What a fantastic honor for such a hardworking group of staff, board members, Ambassadors and volunteers."

Gorman referred back to his theme-"Building a better tomorrow... today!"-as well, commenting that despite a slowing economy, the South Central Kentucky region still experienced economic growth. "The Chamber is proud to have participated in that economic growth," said Gorman. "In total, new and expanding industries created 1,326 direct jobs and 276 indirect jobs in our region last year. They also invested $44.8 million in capital and provided a total of $100.9 million in local economic impact."

Chamber President and CEO James N. Hizer, CEcD introduced a special year-in-review video and agreed with Gorman that 2008 was filled with many successes, particularly in economic development. "Of particular note is that the Chamber launched our menu of services program, through which we are further positioning ourselves for economic development success by giving all counties in South Central Kentucky an opportunity to work closely with experienced economic development professionals."

Hizer continued, "Our new director of regional development, Miller Slaughter, is working with Butler, Edmonson and Monroe Counties to develop and implement strategic plans, thereby improving their competitiveness. While these three counties agreed to the entire menu of services program, Allen, Barren, Hart, Logan and Metcalfe Counties agreed to an enhanced marketing package, deepening the South Central Kentucky brand."

The 2009 Board of Directors and Ambassadors were formally inducted into their positions as District Court Judge John B. Brown administered the oath. Joining the Board of Directors for 2009 are William Borders, II; Amy Milliken; and Kim Thomas. New members of the Ambassadors Club are Keri Gies and Miles McDaniel.

Mary Cohron, Anne Grubbs and Heather Rogers were honored for their service during their terms as members of the Board of Directors. The year-end award winners, who were announced previously, were again recognized during the program. The winners were: Mary Cohron, Board Volunteer of the Year; Bruce Wilkerson, Ambassador of the Year; and Lisa Dunn, Volunteer of the Year.

Bill Waltrip, who served as the Ambassadors Club president in 2008, passed the Ambassador's gavel to Heather Rogers, the president for 2009. "The Ambassadors are an important group of volunteers who work closely with the board of directors and the partnership, and I look forward to a great year in 2009," said Rogers.

To conclude the evening, Gorman formally passed the gavel to 2009 Board Chairman Todd Davis, who then outlined his hopes for the year. Davis' theme is "Many faces. One voice." and his efforts will be focused on increasing the Chamber's governmental relations efforts.

"I'm honored to become chairman this year and could not do this without the support of my family and coworkers," said Davis. "I look forward to a great year, one in which we can enhance our legislative efforts and continue to better this region. My predecessors, including Mary Cohron and Doug, have built a great foundation in the Chamber, and I anticipate much success this year."

Bucks for Bright Ideas 2008 Award Winners Announced

1/23/2009

Bucks for Bright Ideas 2008 Award Winners Announced


	Dr. Ryan Wiesemann, DMD, MS (left) received the first place award from Chamber Vice President, Economic Development Dan Preston.

	Christopher Jack Adams (left) received the second place place award from CRICC Assistant Director Jeff Hook and Dan Preston.

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Entrepreneurs were recognized with praise on Wednesday night at the Western Kentucky University Center for Research and Development during the Bucks for Bright Ideas 2008 Reception, a publicly funded program that encourages residents in South Central Kentucky to move forward with their "bright ideas."

All who entered will receive one-on-one assistance from the Central Region Innovation & Commercialization (CRICC) and other business development experts in the region. South Central Kentucky residents with the best ideas, as determined by panel of local business leaders, received prizes. Dr. Ryan Wiesemann was awarded 1st place in the region, and Christopher Jack Adams received the 2nd place award.

Prior to entering the Bucks for Bright Ideas competition, Dr. Ryan Wiesemann, DMD, MS of Malchow, Lawless & Wiesemann Orthodontics in Bowling Green had been trying to develop a way to make orthodontics treatments easier and appointments shorter. He contacted Western Kentucky University's Small Business Accelerator to discuss his ideas, and from there was encouraged to submit his plan to the competition. "I have been thoroughly impressed with the staff at the ICC and the help that they provide. Jeff Hook, Joel Lenoire, and Chris Moore are quite informative and a lot of fun to work with." said Wiesemann.

Christopher Jack Adams of Edmonson County, chairman and founder of GSYS Military Products, LLC, develops 360-degree collision avoidance warning systems that can be retro-fitted on any equipment that has marker lights. Adams has been working closely with the economic development staff of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the ICC to build his business. "I'm honored to be recognized for my ideas through the Bucks for Bright Ideas competition," said Adams.

Jeff Hook, CRICC assistant director said, "We are very proud to have had a great competition and to award these prizes, but most importantly we want to help all participants take steps toward commercialization. There are many would-be entrepreneurs in our region, and a program like Bucks for Bright Ideas gives us a chance to help them all."

The 2008 competition was sponsored by the CRICC and the WKU Center for Research and Development, along with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce/South Central Kentucky Regional Economic Development Partnership and the Hart County Chamber of Commerce.

"The Chamber is grateful for the opportunity to participate in a competition like Bucks for Bright Ideas," said Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Todd Davis. "Such a competition gives everyone involved a chance to share ideas, gain resources, and take steps toward building businesses."

For more information, contact Jeff Hook at 270-991-4944 or wjhook@insightbb.com.

Last Chance to Purchase Tickets for Annual Dinner

1/14/2009

Last Chance to Purchase Tickets for Annual Dinner

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-Sales will end at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, for tickets to the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce's 2009 Annual Dinner, to be held Thursday, January 29, at Sloan Convention Center.

This year's Annual Dinner is expected to attract more than 800 of the area's top business leaders. The evening will begin with a reception at 5:30 p.m., and dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. The program will include a celebration of another year of Chamber successes and time to honor dedicated volunteers. 2008 Chairman of the Board of Directors Doug Gorman will formally pass the gavel to 2009 Chairman Todd Davis.

Individual tickets are $50 each. Tables (seating 10) may be purchased for $500. President's Club Partners (Gold, Platinum and Diamond Levels) may purchase tables at a discounted price of $450.

Tickets may be purchased at the Chamber headquarters located at 710 College Street or online at www.bgchamber.com. For more information, contact the Chamber at 270-781-3200 or info@bgchamber.com.

Chamber Hosts Legislative Preview

1/13/2009

Chamber Hosts Legislative Preview

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-In support of its legislative action efforts, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce held a Legislative Preview today, cosponsored by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and Bob Evans Restaurant. Kentucky State Representatives Jim DeCesare, Jody Richards and Wilson Stone were the speakers for the event, along with Mike Ridenour, vice president of public affairs for the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.

This event, coordinated by the Chamber's Legislative Action Committee, provides Chamber partners with a face-to-face meeting with state legislators. The Bowling Green and Kentucky Chambers organize this event to support the Bowling Green Chamber's legislative efforts and to share the Kentucky Chamber's legislative agenda.

Todd Davis, 2009 chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors, was pleased with the event. "We're grateful to Representatives DeCesare, Richards and Stone for taking the time to speak to our Chamber partners about the current legislative session. They all gave us great insight as to the happenings in Frankfort and what we can expect to see this year."

Davis opened the event by discussing the Chamber's legislative agenda. Representatives DeCesare, Richards and Stone spoke about the current legislative session and answered questions from the crowd. Each representative presented a preview of what topics he expects to be of issue in the legislative session. Collectively, these issues include the state budget and the current economy, the proposed cigarette tax, the gasoline tax, education, agriculture and video gaming.

Ridenour outlined the Kentucky Chamber's goals for the 2009 legislative session, which include initiatives to help Kentucky make progress, even during tough economic times. Bold Steps to Advance Kentucky, the organization's recently released 2009 business agenda, emphasizes the importance of improving the education attainment level of Kentuckians and addressing other key areas to ensure that Kentucky has a vibrant business environment.

"The Chamber thanks the Kentucky Chamber and our breakfast sponsor Bob Evans Restaurant for their support in making today's event possible," said Davis.

Insight Communications will replay the Legislative Preview on Insight Channel 5 during the following schedule:

Thursdays, January 15 and 22, 9:30 a.m.
Saturdays, January 17 and 24, at 10:30 a.m.
Sundays, January 18 and 25, 4:30 p.m.
Tuesdays, January 20 and 27, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesdays, January 21 and 28, 6:30 p.m.

The Chamber thanks Insight Communications for replaying the Legislative Preview.

Chamber Presents Year-End Awards

1/7/2009

Chamber Presents Year-End Awards


	2008 Ambassador of the Year Bruce Wilkerson and 2008 Board Chairman Doug Gorman

	2008 Board Volunteer of the Year Mary Cohron and 2008 Board Chairman Doug Gorman

	2008 Volunteer of the Year Lisa Dunn and 2008 Board Chairman Doug Gorman

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce held a special news conference today to announce the winners of its 2008 Year-End Awards. 2008 Chairman Doug Gorman announced the three award winners: Bruce Wilkerson, Ambassador of the Year; Mary Cohron, Board Volunteer of the Year; and Lisa Dunn, Volunteer of the Year.

"The Chamber could not achieve its goals and reach the level of success we experienced in 2008 without the help of our board, Ambassadors, and volunteers," said Gorman. "We're proud to recognize these special award winners today, and we'll continue to honor them at our Annual Dinner on January 29."

The Year-End Awards had been presented during Annual Dinners in the past, but this year the Chamber opted to hold a special news conference to announce the award winners, giving them more exposure.

Bruce Wilkerson, Bowling Green city commissioner, has been an Ambassador since January 2007. He was selected as Ambassador of the Year because of his continued dedication to the Chamber and to his responsibilities as an Ambassador.

"Bruce rarely misses a ribbon cutting or groundbreaking for the Chamber, showing his support of our partners and taking his role as an Ambassador to heart. He promotes the Chamber to all partners and is dedicated to helping us recruit and retain partners," said Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE, Chamber vice president, operations.

President of Citizens First, Mary Cohron served as chairperson of the Chamber Board of Directors in 2007. She was selected as Board Volunteer of the Year because of her outstanding service to the Chamber and her commitment to furthering the Chamber's mission through partnership growth and economic development.

"Mary has been a great asset to this organization throughout her board tenure," said James N. Hizer, CEcD, Chamber president and CEO. "In addition to her many commitments through work and community involvement, she has made the Chamber a priority and has helped us reach our goals, including moving into our new state-of-the-art headquarters in 2007."

Lisa Dunn, Human Resources generalist for U.S. Bank, served as the chair of the 2008 Leadership Bowling Green program. During her term, Dunn worked closely with Chamber staff and the Leadership Bowling Green Advisory Board to ensure that the program was a success. Dunn was an enthusiastic leader who carried out her duties with innovation and creativity.

"Lisa made sure that the 2008 class experienced all that Leadership Bowling Green has to offer through the day programs and the two retreats," said Beth Oliphant, program director. "She really cared about making everyone's experience great, and she demonstrated quality leadership skills in all that she did. Her work in 2008, not to mention the time she put in to the program, made the year a success."

Wilkerson, Cohron and Dunn will be recognized at the Chamber's Annual Dinner on Thursday, January 29, at Sloan Convention Center. The event begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m., and dinner will follow at 6:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased for $50 each. Tables (seating 10 individuals) may be purchased for $500. President's Club Partners (Gold, Platinum and Diamond Levels) may purchase tables at a discounted price of $450.

Tickets will be available until noon on Wednesday, January 14, and can be purchased at the Chamber headquarters located at 710 College Street or online at bgchamber.com. Registration forms were also printed in the November and December 2008 Chamber Connection newsletters.

For more information regarding Annual Dinner, please call 270-781-3200 or e-mail info@bgchamber.com.

Chamber Announces Staff Changes

1/6/2009

Chamber Announces Staff Changes

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


	R. Marc Elliott, CEcD, AICP Vice President for Property Development and Public Policy

	Beth Oliphant Program Director

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce announced two staff changes today. R. Marc Elliott, CEcD, AICP, who was hired as vice president, property development, has accepted a new role as vice president for property development and public policy. Beth Oliphant, former partnership sales representative, has been promoted to program director.

"2009 marks the start of some exciting changes for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce," said Todd Davis, chairman of the 2009 Chamber Board of Directors. "We are increasing our legislative action efforts, and Marc will play a large part in these efforts through his new role."

Elliott joined the Chamber in May 2008 as manager of the business operations of the Inter-Modal Transportation Authority, Inc. and the Bowling Green Area Economic Development Authority, Inc. He came to the Chamber with more than 36 years of economic development experience, having been the director of the Terre Haute Department of Redevelopment in Terre Haute, Ind.; a community development project manager for GRW Engineers in Lexington, Ky.; the executive director of the River Ridge Development Authority in Clark County, Ind., and a consultant for the River Ridge Development Authority.

Aside from his CEcD designation from the International Economic Development Council, Elliott became a Certified Planner by the American Institute of Certified Planners in 1978, and he was named a Certified Community Development Grant Manager by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation in 1999. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in urban planning and a Master of Public Administration degree, both from Ball State University. He has also completed 17 hours of real estate studies at Eastern Kentucky University.

"Not only does Marc have outstanding economic development experience, he has also been a part of significant legislative efforts within his former positions," explained James N. Hizer, CEcD, Chamber president and CEO. "Because of his experience, we feel that he's the best person to work with our Legislative Action Committee to strengthen our legislative efforts. We're confident that Marc, in his new role, will be a great factor in allowing us to reach our goals."

Beth Oliphant began working as the Chamber's partnership sales representative in June 2007. As a Western Kentucky University graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing, Oliphant demonstrated initiative and skill from the start. While recruiting new Chamber partners and overseeing the Partnership Development Recruitment Committee, Oliphant worked closely with the partnership, which gives her a strong background for her new position as program director.

In her new position, Oliphant will be responsible for Chamber programs and special events, including Leadership Bowling Green, Small Business Appreciation Week, and Industry Appreciation Month. She will oversee the following Chamber committees: Small Business Appreciation, Industry Appreciation and Workforce Development. She will also assist Elliott in overseeing the Legislative Action Committee.

"Beth has shown her commitment to the Chamber and her drive to succeed ever since she began working here," said Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE, vice president of Chamber operations. "She is energetic and well-qualified to take on the role of program director. We look forward to watching her grow in this new position, and we're confident that she'll do an outstanding job."

To contact Elliott or Oliphant, or to learn more about any of the programs and committees mentioned above, please call 270-781-3200.

2009 Leadership Bowling Green Applications Now Available

1/2/2009

Leadership Bowling Green Applications Now Available

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY - The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that applications for Leadership Bowling Green are now available online at www.bgchamber.com. Click here to download the LBG application.

An eight-month leadership development program, Leadership Bowling Green begins with a retreat in April and ends with graduation in November. The class meets for one full day during each of those months and travels outside of Bowling Green for both the spring and fall retreats. Tuition is $1,000, which pays for all materials, meals, and lodging.

Applications will not be mailed or faxed. The application deadline is Friday, January 30, 2009, at 4:30 p.m. CST. For additional information, contact Program Director Beth Oliphant at 270-781-3200 or beth@bgchamber.com.

Whayne Supply Celebrates Grand Opening of New Bowling Green Facility

12/18/2008

Whayne Supply Celebrates Grand Opening of New Bowling Green Facility

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY - Company and community leaders joined together today in Bowling Green to commemorate the grand opening of Whayne Supply Company's newest branch office, located at 390 High Rail Way. The 65,000 square-foot facility will house the company's heavy equipment operation, replacing its existing branch on U.S. Hwy 31W Bypass.

"Whayne Supply has a long history of success in Kentucky and in this region, starting in Bowling Green in 1954," said Monty Boyd, president and CEO of Whayne Supply Company. "Our success comes from our first-class business services and our commitment to our customers. This is why we're able to witness this expansion today with this new state-of-the-art facility."

The expansion will create 15 additional employment opportunities, bringing total employment up to 60. Currently, the Bowling Green branch is a primary source for equipment, parts and service for multiple markets in a 19-county area, reaching from Christian to Adair Counties.

"South Central Kentucky continues to be a great place to do business," said Brian Cambron, vice president of branch operations for Whayne Supply Company. "As the region has grown, we've been able to grow with it, and we're very fortunate to have such loyal customers. We look forward to continuing to serve this region at our new facility."

The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority approved Whayne Supply Company for tax benefits up to $133,384 under the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act, an incentive program that allows approved companies to recoup sales and use tax on the cost of construction materials, building fixtures and equipment used for research and development.

"Kentucky is pleased to partner with a Kentucky-grown business that has been an outstanding corporate citizen for nearly a century," said George Burgess, commissioner of Existing Business for the Cabinet for Economic Development. "We are proud to play a role in this expansion project, and will continue to work with Whayne Supply Company for years to come."

Whayne Supply Company is one of the oldest and largest heavy equipment dealerships in North America. The company was founded in 1913 by Roy Co. Whayne, Sr. in Louisville, Ky. Seven years later the Kentucky-based company began representing the Holt Manufacturing Company, and in 1925, Holt merged with Best Company to create Caterpillar Tractor Company.

"It's a great day in South Central Kentucky when we can celebrate the opening of a new, expanded business," said Warren County Judge-Executive Michael Buchanon. "We're thankful for Whayne Supply's commitment to our region, and we wish them much success at their new location."

"With more than 50 years of history in Bowling Green, Whayne Supply remains a strong contributor to the growth of our entire region," said Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker. "We congratulate them on their new facility and expanded operations, and we look forward to watching them grow."

Doug Gorman, chair of the Bowling Green Chamber Board of Directors, said, "Whayne Supply has been a Chamber partner for more than 40 years. Their longstanding partnership demonstrates that this company is proud to be a part of the Bowling Green community. Congratulations to Whayne Supply for their new and expanded facilities."

A community profile for Warren County can be viewed at http://thinkkentucky.com/EDIS/cmnty/index.aspx?cw=067.

Leadership Bowling Green Applications Available Starting January 2, 2009

12/17/2008

Leadership Bowling Green Applications Available Starting January 2, 2009

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY - Applications for Leadership Bowling Green will be available beginning January 2, 2009, online at bgchamber.com.

Program Director Jennifer Breiwa, along with Program Chair Jon Schubarth and Co-Chair Michelle Disney, is excited about the upcoming program. Breiwa said, "LBG continues to be one of our most popular Chamber programs. The class, which is made up of 25 to 30 local business leaders, is introduced to all aspects of our city by visiting a variety of locations and discussing the inner workings of government, business, education, and healthcare, among many other topics."

"Leadership Bowling Green is a must for all business leaders in the community. It provides an opportunity for individuals to increase their knowledge of this great community, better appreciate why diversity of commerce, education, and government make Bowling Green the place to live, and develop new friendships with fellow classmates," said Tim Earnhart, 1998 class graduate and CEO of Liberty and Earnhart & Friends.

Applications will not be mailed or faxed. The application deadline is Friday, January 30, 2009, at 4:30 p.m. CST. For additional information, contact Jennifer Breiwa at 270-781-3200 or jenniferb@bgchamber.com.

Tickets On Sale Now for 2009 Annual Dinner

12/9/2008

Purchase Tickets for the Chamber's 2009 Annual Dinner

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce will host the 2009 Annual Dinner on Thursday, January 29, at the Sloan Convention Center. Tickets are available for purchase at the Chamber headquarters located at 710 College Street or they can be purchased online at bgchamber.com. Registration forms were also printed in the November and December 2008 Chamber Connection newsletters.

Tickets may be purchased for $50 each. Tables (seating 10 individuals) may be purchased for $500. President's Club Partners (Gold, Platinum and Diamond Levels) may purchase tables at a discounted price of $450.

"Annual Dinner is the highlight of the Chamber's year, and we expect it to be a sold-out event," said Tonya Matthews, IOM, ACE, Vice President of Chamber Operations.

Ticket sales end at noon on Wednesday, January 14. For more information, contact the Chamber at 270-781-3200 or info@bgchamber.com.

Matthews Receives ACE Designation

12/4/2008

Matthews Receives ACE Designation

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE) awarded Tonya L. Matthews, vice president of chamber operations for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, the Accredited Chamber Certification (ACE) at their fall conference in Louisville, Ky. The ACE professional certification recognizes the professional competence and expertise attainted by chamber of commerce professionals in the state of Kentucky.

"Congratulations on earning the designation of Kentucky Accredited Chamber Executive (ACE). This is the only professional certification offered to chamber professionals in Kentucky. The ACE is a significant accomplishment and serves as a stepping-stone to the Certified Chamber Executive designation offered nationally by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives," said Aaron Cox, executive director for the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives.

"Tonya's professional accomplishments, as well as her contributions to her community and the chamber industry as a whole, set her apart as an excellent leader and chamber executive in the state of Kentucky. Tonya's receipt of this designation demonstrates that she is a shining star in the chamber profession and an asset to the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce contributing at this high level," said KCCE Board President 2008 Dorothy White.

Matthews is also a 2007 graduate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organizational Management. She is serving her twelfth year at the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, in her third position.

"We are fortunate to have Tonya on our Chamber team. She is a talented, driven individual who understands the value our organization gives to the community," said James N. Hizer, CEcD, Chamber president and CEO.

Doug Gorman, chairman of the 2008 Chamber Board of Directors, agreed. "Tonya is an incredible asset to the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce because of her experience and her desire to make our organization thrive."

Rose Receives 2008 Bart Hagerman Leadership Award

11/25/2008

Rose Receives 2008 Bart Hagerman Leadership Award

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


	Debby Peeples presented Jason Rose with the 2008 Bart Hagerman Leadership Award.

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce named Jason Rose as the recipient of the 2008 Bart Hagerman Leadership Award on Thursday, November 20, at the 2008 Leadership Bowling Green graduation ceremony.

The Hagerman Award is the top honor bestowed upon a graduating member of the Leadership Bowling Green program, and the recipient is selected by a vote of his or her classmates. The 2007 recipient, Debby Peeples, commercial sales and leasing agent with Neal Turner Realty Commercial and Industrial Brokerage, presented the award to Rose.

Rose is the branch manager at U.S. Bank's Northgate Office in Bowling Green, joining the company four years ago after working as a branch manager at National City Bank. He is a lifelong resident of Bowling Green, having graduated from Warren East High School and Western Kentucky University.

Rose is currently a board member for Junior Achievement of South Central KY and a member of the Allocations Committee for United Way of Southern Kentucky. He is a past member of the Kiwanis Club and of the Recruitment Committee for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. He is an alum of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity at Western Kentucky University.

"I am honored to receive this award," said Rose. "It's very humbling to know that my classmates view me as a leader and that they chose to recognize me with the Hagerman Award. I've had a great experience in Leadership Bowling Green, and my memories of the program will remain with me for years to come."

"Jason was a real asset to the LBG class this year," said Lisa Dunn, chair of the 2008 Leadership Bowling Green program and Human Resources generalist at U.S. Bank. "He is an excellent leader who exemplifies what the Hagerman Award represents."

Applications for entrance into the 2009 Leadership Bowling Green class will be available online at www.bgchamber.com beginning January 2, 2009. The application deadline will be 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2009. For more information, contact Jennifer Breiwa at 270-781-3200.

Graduation Held for 2008 Leadership Bowling Green Class

11/21/2008

Graduation Held for 2008 Leadership Bowling Green Class

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The 2008 class of Leadership Bowling Green (LBG) graduated on Thursday, November 20, celebrating their completion of an eight-month leadership program that provided them insight into many aspects of their community. LBG is one of the most popular programs that the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce offers.

Don Cole, manager of contractor services for Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation, served as the 2008 LBG Class President and is very proud of what his class has accomplished. "LBG is an incredible experience. The program gives you a chance to be a part of so many different aspects of Bowling Green. Class members don't just get to meet with other community leaders; we also become even more active contributors to this community."

"2008 has been a wonderful year," said Jennifer Breiwa, program director for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, who is responsible for the LBG program. "The class participants are outgoing and innovative, and they really took an interest in all the events that we were a part of. From retreats to days in the community to a service project at Hope Harbor, the class enhanced their leadership skills while making an impact on the community."

Lisa Dunn served as the chair of the 2008 program, working with Breiwa and co-chair Jon Schubarth, manager of engineering for Warren County Water District, to coordinate the various activities and events that the class participated in. Dunn, a Human Resources generalist at U.S. Bank, is also pleased with this year's class. "When you bring this many people together--people who have consistently demonstrated enthusiasm and leadership in their careers--you experience great energy and see amazing examples of leadership. That's what LBG is about, and I've been honored to help these participants grow throughout the program."

Western Kentucky University Football Coach David Elson was the keynote speaker at Thursday's graduation, speaking about the key skills a leader must have. Additionally, Mayor Elaine Walker and Judge Executive Michael Buchanon announced a joint proclamation to name November 20 Leadership Bowling Green Day.

Graduates of the 2008 LBG class are:

Travis Armstrong English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP	Don Cole Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation
Jim Cummings Western Kentucky University	Debbie Faircloth Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana
Kevin Gettings Gerald Printing	LaTasha Hatcher CHASE
D.J. Herrman National City Bank	Tim Hogue South Central Bank of Bowling Green, Inc.
Brian Howard Grace & Peace Presbyterian	Julie Huntsman Bluegrass Cellular
Kristie Kennedy Service One Credit Union	Elise Konwiczka BB&T
Marita Minnich Chandler Real Estate	Mekesha Montgomery Frost Brown Todd
Leslie Peek Bowling Green Independent School District	Jeff Peeples Warren County Water District
Jason Rose U.S. Bank	Jamie Spinks Warren County Attorney
Michele Tolbert City of Bowling Green	Jo Lynn Vincent Barren River Area Development District
Chris Vowels Holland CPAs, PSC	Susan Waggoner Individual Partner
Brian Webb Regina Webb Salon & Spa	Lori Wilson Canteen Service Company

Additionally, three members of the 2007 LBG Class received their diplomas: David Bolton of Edward Jones Investments; Ruth Fraser of Holland CPAs, PSC; and Matthew Keyser of ISTT, Inc.

After graduation, LBG participants are encouraged to join the Leadership Bowling Green Alumni Association (LBGAA). This organization allows alumni to continue to enhance their leadership skills and to remain involved in the Bowling Green community.

Applications for entrance into the 2009 LBG class will be available online at www.bgchamber.com beginning January 2, 2009. The application deadline will be 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2009. For more information, contact Jennifer Breiwa at 270-781-3200.

SCORE Provides Valuable Opportunities

11/19/2008

SCORE Provides Valuable Business Opportunities

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce encourages business owners and entrepreneurs to look to the Service Corps of Retired Executives Association (SCORE) for business counseling and education.

SCORE has been assisting small business for more than 40 years and is a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration. The association, made up of 11,000 volunteer business executives and professionals across the nation, provides entrepreneurs and small business owners with free counsel, advice and education. Counselors advise and guide their clients to make decisions about business ventures, and counseling is available for persons wanting to go into business as well as those already in business. SCORE counselors have a wide variety of experience from areas such as sales, marketing, manufacturing, inventory control, production scheduling, finance, and engineering, among other business experiences.

Dan Preston, vice president of economic development for the Chamber, encourages contacting SCORE for business assistance. "SCORE counselors provide firsthand experience for their clients. Because of their vast network of counselors, any business or individual can get advice on an issue whether through a one-on-one meeting or on a listserv. The possibilities for assistance are endless because of the 11,000 counselors SCORE offers across the nation."

To schedule an appointment to meet with a local SCORE counselor, contact Ed Adkins at 270-746-5948.

The Bowling Green branch of SCORE is in need of more SCORE counselors. There are many opportunities to become involved for business leaders who are looking to utilize their business expertise to help a small business startup or to expand an existing industry. Volunteer roles are available for individual/team counseling, e-mail counseling, business training workshops and administrative support. Volunteers do not need to be retired to join SCORE. To learn more, e-mail bowlinggreenscore@score-kentucky.org.

Chamber President & CEO Receives Prestigious Award

11/13/2008

Chamber President & CEO Receives Prestigious Award

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-James N. Hizer, CEcD, president and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, received the James Norris Gray Award for Professional Development at today's luncheon sponsored by the Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED), part of KAED's annual conference in Lexington, Ky.

"There are so many outstanding economic development professionals throughout the Commonwealth. I am obviously humbled to be singled out for this award. I accept this award in recognition of our dedicated volunteers, elected leadership, regional partners, staff, and our entire Chamber partnership, who have all contributed to our outstanding economic development success in South Central Kentucky,” said Hizer.

KAED created this award to recognize those economic developers who strive to keep abreast of the ever-changing field of economic development. Award winners are those who continue their professional education beyond that offered by KAED. The award honors the winners' significant level of experience and expertise in the field of economic development.

"KAED congratulates Jim on winning the James Norris Gray Award this year. Jim is a leader in Kentucky economic development and his commitment to professional development has greatly benefited South Central Kentucky," said KAED President & CEO Mike Mangeot.

This award is named in honor of James Norris Gray, who was an active economic development practitioner, and whose construction firm, Gray Construction, remains a strong supporter of continuing education and excellence in the economic development field.

"Since our founding in 1960, Gray Construction has strongly supported economic development in Kentucky. We understand the importance of attracting and retaining successful industries, as well as helping those industries to expand," said Jill Wilson, vice president, marketing, Gray Construction. "James Norris Gray, our founder, focused much of his energies on strengthening the economic climate in Kentucky, and we're proud to continue that legacy by honoring practitioners such as Jim Hizer with the Gray Award. Jim is a wonderful asset to South Central Kentucky and the Commonwealth because of his work in this field."

"Since his arrival in 2004, we have seen, first-hand, Jim’s professional commitment and outstanding work ethic in making South Central Kentucky a better place in which to live, work and do business. Now, the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky is also well aware of our economic development success as a region and Jim’s leadership,” said Doug Gorman, chairman of the 2008 Chamber Board of Directors.

South Central Kentucky Receives Exclusive Representation in South Korea

11/6/2008

South Central Kentucky Receives Exclusive Representation in South Korea


	Mr. Sung Duck Oh, South Central Kentucky's exclusive representative in South Korea

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that the Mr. Sung Duck Oh will be the region's representative in South Korea. As the exclusive representative of South Central Kentucky in South Korea, Mr. Oh will promote the region to businesses looking to locate in the United States.

"More and more South Korean companies are looking to directly invest in the United States," said James N. Hizer, CEcD, Chamber president and CEO. "It's important that we expand our presence in South Korea. Our relationship with Mr. Oh will help us to achieve this goal. He has already been in contact with prospective investors who are interested in our region."

Mr. Oh will actively seek prospective investors in the South Korean market for South Central Kentucky, and he will serve as a point of contact for South Korean companies wanting information about the United States.

"Mr. Oh is an outstanding asset for South Central Kentucky," said Hizer. "As an exclusive representative for our region, his knowledge and background will be very beneficial for us as we look to recruit more South Korean business to our region."

"I am excited to represent South Central Kentucky and the many opportunities available in the region for business," said Mr. Oh.

Mr. Oh brings a broad range of engineering and marketing knowledge to this partnership, as well as extensive experience in manufacturing. He has worked as facility maintenance manager for Control Data Korea and as sales engineer and Asian market manager for Zamil Steel Building Company. He was named the director of the State of Indiana Korea Office in 1994. Since that assignment, he has managed various trade shows and seminars for Indiana companies, which have resulted in direct investment by Korean manufacturers. He served as the chairman of the Association of American State Offices in Korea from 2002 to 2003.

Mr. Oh is a graduate of the Korean Naval Academy, having spent 18 years of service in the Navy. He also completed one year of training at the U.S. Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, Ill., in 1959. He left the Navy as a commander in 1970. He was an instructor for the Korean Armed Forces Staff College and has also completed postgraduate work in international trade at Yonsei University in Seoul.

Hizer said that this partnership will create a stronger connection to South Korea and will enhance opportunities for South Korean business leaders and investors to visit the South Central Kentucky region. "We're very grateful to Mr. Oh for agreeing to represent South Central Kentucky in South Korea," said Hizer. "We look forward to a long, successful partnership with him."

Participate in Bucks for Bright Ideas 2008

10/28/2008

Participate in Bucks for Bright Ideas

Chamber Supports Contest for Business Owners, Entrepreneurs and Creative Thinkers

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

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce encourages small business owners, entrepreneurs and creative thinkers to participate in the Bucks for Bright Ideas 2008 competition, an opportunity for those with great ideas, products or inventions to win cash prizes, gain assistance, and learn about funding sources.

Bucks for Bright Ideas is a publicly funded program that encourages residents in South Central Kentucky to move forward with their "bright ideas." Jeff Hook, assistant director of the Central Region Innovation & Commercialization (CRICC), said, "Many people in our region have innovative business ideas, but they need help taking the steps toward commercialization. The Bucks for Bright Ideas competition is designed to help them take the first steps and to give them a chance to turn their ideas into business realities!"

Bucks for Bright Ideas is sponsored by the CRICC and Western Kentucky University's Center for Research and Development, along with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce/South Central Kentucky Regional Economic Development Partnership, the Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority, the Franklin Simpson Chamber of Commerce, the Hart County Chamber of Commerce, and the Logan Economic Alliance for Development.

Anyone with a "bright idea" is encouraged to complete a six-question application describing their idea. All who enter will receive one-on-one assistance from the CRICC and other business development experts in the region. A reception will be held on January 13, 2009, at the CRICC in Bowling Green. The top entries will be announced at this time, with regional prizes of $1,000 to $2,000 being presented, as well as awards and prizes for specific categories.

"We at the Chamber are proud to support Bucks for Bright Ideas because it gives people in our region an opportunity to share their ideas with some of the top business development experts in the region," said Doug Gorman, chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors. "I'm excited to see what innovative ideas develop from this year's competition!"

Entries will be accepted until December 31, with awards presented on January 13, 2009. The application may be downloaded at www.cr-icc.com. For more information, contact Jeff Hook at 270-991-4944 or wjhook@insightbb.com.