COFFEE HOURAugust 23, 2013 l at SKyPACBreakfast 7:00 a.m. l Program 7:30 a.m.Sponsored byWARREN COUNTY DOWNTOWN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

Bowling green AreA

august 2013

1

The 2013Chamber Connection

Newsletter is designed and printed by

PriNT Media at2967 Louisville road in

Bowling Green, Kentucky

President & CEORon Bunch, CEcD

ChairmanBrad Howard

Board Chair-ElectJohn Mark Fones

Immediate Past ChairmanD. Gaines Penn

Vice ChairTommy Adams

Vice PresidentsWilliam H. Borders II, CFP®

Joy RogersRobbin Taylor

Board of Directors

Ex-Officio MembersJames “Doc” Kaelin

Amy MillikenBruce Wilkerson

Chamber of Commerce

Barton DarrellMark O. IversonBill Murphree Alan Palmer Kim ThomasEric Walker

Ed Whitehead

Steve DavisDion W. HouchinsTodd MatthewsAlex Nottmeier

Alan VilinesRegina Webb

Chairman’s Comments

President Ronald Reagan famously

displayed a small plaque on his desk that read, “There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he doesn’t mind who gets the credit.” This summer, Kentucky’s most-read business magazine, The Lane Report, featured our community in its June issue. The story focused on the steady growth in jobs and investment our region has experienced despite the worst recession and liquidity crisis in generations. The article cited $1.375 billion of capital investment in and around Bowling Green since 2008, through a

time when most areas of the country were floundering. In seeking to explain how we weathered the economic riptide, writer Debra Gibson Isaacs discovered the teamwork, cooperation and focus on fundamentals that set our community apart. Economic development is truly a team sport and the main job of leadership is remembering that fact. On August 22, Western Kentucky University and The Medical Center will cut the ribbon opening the new Medical Sciences Center, a $16 million facility among $178 million of new capital investments in the downtown TIF district stretching from the WKU campus to The Medical Center. On August 23, Coffee Hour will be sponsored by the Warren County Downtown Economic Development Authority, the kind of public-private organization that exemplifes the teamwork and can-do spirit celebrated by the Lane Report.

Brad Howard2013 Chairman of the Board of DirectorsBowling Green Area Chamber of CommerceTransforming South Central Kentucky through Talent & Innovation

Ron BunchPresident & CEO

Emilee ButtrumPartnership Coordinator

Maureen Carpenter, IOM, EDPVP, Regional Economic Development & Talent

Kayla CruseEconomic Development Research &

Marketing Coordinator

Crystal CummingsOffice Manager

Katie DykesProgram & Events Coordinator

Yvonne FranksFinancial Coordinator

Nick FuhrmanCommunications & Public Policy Director

John HarnagePartnership Development Director

Lea Ila HooverExecutive Assistant/Associate

Project Manager

Betty MartinAssociate Project Manager

Tonya Matthews, ACE, IOM, CCEVP, Partnership Services

Melinda RectorReceptionist/Database Administrator

Meredith RobinsonCOO/CFO

Julie SappProject Manager

Jennifer ShahanTLIM Campaign Coordinator

Abbie SiljendahlPrograms and Events Director

Brittany SouthwoodPartnership Sales Representative

Like our Facebook Fan Page.Follow @BGChamber on Twitter.

Join us on LinkedIn.

Chamber Offices: Mon. 8:30am - 4:30pm; Tue.-Fri. 8am-4:30pmTel: 270.781.3200

710 College Street, Bowling Green, KY 42101

YOur ChaMBer STaFF

in ThiS iSSue:

August Coffee Hour celebrates downtown renaissance ........... 2

National Corvette Museum breaks new ground ................. 6 Ribbon-Cuttings ...................7-8

New benefits and services for Chamber Partners ................ 14

| CHAMBER CONNECTION | August 2013

Judge Executive Mike Buchanon, WKU President Gary Ransdell, Bowling Green Chamber Chair Brad Howard, Chamber President & CEO Ron Bunch, Bowling Green Mayor Bruce Wilkerson, SKYCT President Phil Neal and Downtown TIF Committee Chair Doug Gorman in the June Lane Report (Photo by WKU Clinton Lewis)

Cooperation, determination and perhaps the right timing are ele-ments that have all come together

over the past six years for downtown Bowling Green’s City Center and the leaders who have worked diligently to bring millions of dollars of investment to the city. Doug Gorman, Chairman of the Warren County Down-town Economic Development Authority (WCDEDA), the entity that is responsible for the redevelopment and financing of the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district, is looking forward to being certified by the Common-wealth of Kentucky as passing the $150 Mil-lion goal to become a Signature TIF a full two years earlier than required by state statute.. The state returns local tax dollars paid to the state to Signature TIF districts so reaching that milestone has been an important goal. The TIF has a lifetime of 27 years, and will pay dividends to South Central Kentucky for several decades. Projections for the next five years will bring the total capital investment in the TIF district to over $225 million. Those investments date back to 2008, when Bowling Green received approval for the TIF district to spur significant development in the downtown area. Starting with the Hot Rods Stadium ($25 Million), then SKyPAC ($27.3 Million) and continuing with the building of The Medical Center-WKU Health Science Complex ($19 Million) and the new HitCents Park Plaza ($25 Million), downtown Bowling Green has become a thriving ‘City Center.’ The concept behind TIF districts is that tax revenue generated above the existing tax base is funneled back to the area for additional development. Bowling Green’s TIF, also called the “WKU Gateway to Downtown Bowling

Green” will receive 80% of the growth in sales, state withholding, LLC and corporate net profit, as well as city occupational tax in the area. The WCDEDA board members, along with the Master Developer for the project, Alli-ance Corporation, has been able to utilize New Market Tax Credits, Industrial Revenue Bonds, and future TIF revenues to assist with the financing of many of the projects. “While other cities have felt the crushing effect of the national recession, Bowling Green has once again been a shining example of a “Can-Do” attitude to make this TIF successful,” says Gorman. “Without getting too complicated the use of creative financing mechanisms designed to further economic development along with the help of the City and the County, brought these projects to fruition,” said Mary Cohron, Vice Chair and Treasurer of the WCDEDA. Cohron contends that the Hot Rods Sta-dium was really the project that stimulated the downtown redevelopment. “If it hadn’t been for the ballpark, none of this would have happened.” Plans for SKyPAC followed shortly

after and then the downtown parking garage with 800 plus parking spaces.WKU has also played a major role in the TIF district redevelopment. “Between the Augenstein Alumni Center and The Medi-cal Center-WKU Health Science Complex, WKU’s decision to invest in the TIF has complemented the downtown community in a big way,” Cohron says. Gorman and the additional four members of the WCDEDA also saw the need to give the downtown area, that includes the TIF district, a name. “The word TIF is not exactly how we wanted to brand the area,” explains Gorman. Thus, with funding from BGMU, the Author-ity worked with leaders and the community to come up with the name City Center. “It’s mar-ketable, saleable and we hope the name will attract residents and tourists alike to discover what it’s all about,” Continues Gorman. City Center’s tagline is ‘Uniquely BG.’ True to its meaning, Bowling Green’s downtown development is ‘unique’ to the State of Ken-tucky. Bowling Green is now looked at as a statewide model for effectively using TIF districts for economic revitalization. Additional plans for a hotel, grocery store, additional student housing and more devel-opment from WKU are underway and will be announced in coming months. Although it has only been six years since the start of the TIF projects, City Center has already matured well beyond its years.

2 www.bgchamber.com | CHAMBER CONNECTION |

AUGUST 23

2013 august Coffee Hour Celebrates downtown bowling greenJoin us as we celebrate the recent developments in city center and announce exciting details about several upcom-ing projects. Chairman of the Warren County Downtown Economic Development Authority, Doug Gorman, will give an update on how the Authority is progressing toward the required $150 million in downtown TIF investment and

how the City of Bowling Green has become a statewide model for its use of TIF in spurring redevelopment. Other city and business leaders will be on hand to take questions and preview some exciting new projects that are underway.

tif distriCt spurs downtown growtH tHat is ‘uniquely bg

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Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Ron Bunch was elected to the Kentucky World Trade Center Board of Directors.

For the second consecutive year, Becker’s Hospital Review has recognized Andre Boyd, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of TriStar Greenview Regional Hospital, as one of only 25 men and women nationally who, before reaching the age of 40, have excelled as healthcare leaders.

Partner Updates> Partner employee announcements & promotions

| CHAMBER CONNECTION | AUGUST 2013

Michael Sherrod has been named the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HCA/ TriStar Greenview Regional Hospital. He replaces former CEO Mark Marsh. Sherrod comes to Greenview from Coliseum Northside Hospital in Macon, Georgia where he has served as CEO since 2010.

4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. • No Fee • Online Registration Requested.

Business After Hours is a networking program that gives Chamber partners and guests the opportunity to make new contacts, renew acquaintances and exchange business information. The event includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and possible entertainment at no cost. Business After

Hours has an average attendance of 60-100.

thursday, august 22, 2013 sponsored by Chuck’s Liquor Outlet Bowling green Ball Park-upper Level

Business After Hours

WKU’s Professional MBA program (PMBA) is partnering with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce to offer a $500 special tuition waiver to chamber partners who take the PMBA program. Ron Bunch, President and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce said, “WKU’s program is one of the best fully-accredited MBA programs in the nation. Our Chamber is delighted to promote the WKU PMBA and we’re especially honored to offer this exclusive tuition waiver to our Partnership.” Employees of workplaces that are partners of the Chamber and who complete the PMBA program will receive a $500 tuition waiver in their final semester. “This is the first such partnership between an executive MBA program and a local chamber of commerce we know about in Kentucky,” according to Bob Hatfield,

Associate Dean of Graduate Programs and Research in the Gordon Ford College of Business. According to Jeff Katz, Dean of the Gordon Ford College of Business, “As an applied college of business, it is critically important for us to be actively engaged with the business community. Our partnership through the excellent chamber of commerce provides many ways for our highly-skilled faculty to collaboratively work with businesses of the region as we seek to train the leaders of today and tomorrow. The PMBA program for Chamber members is a direct example of our commitment to expanding Kentucky business.”Any member of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce who would like more information about the PMBA or details about the “Chamber Discount” can contact the WKU MBA program at 745-5458 or mba@wku.edu.

Chamber Discount for WKU’s Professional MBA Program

Bunch Joins KWTC Board

WKYU-PBS was nominated for six regional Emmy Awards for broadcasting excellence and won three trophies Saturday, July 20 in Cincinnati. Barbara Deeb was honored to be nominated for her interview with triple-amputee Bryan Anderson. Station Manager David Brinkley won two technical awards and Cheryl Beckley won a trophy for producing a “Mainstreet” feature on Bernheim Forest.

The Club at Olde Stone was selected as the 42nd Best Residential Golf Course by GolfWeek Magazine. The nationwide team of esteemed course raters experienced Olde Stone and raved about the course layout, amenities and community. “This elite ranking is a remarkable accomplishment and a true testament to the quality of Olde Stone,” said Kevin Childers, PGA, Director of Golf.

Container World celebrates 30 years in business August 26th-29th: Ribbon cutting 2:00 p.m. Monday, August 26. Storewide discounts Monday-Thursday. Drawings, Refreshments, and Ice Cream from Chaney’s Dairy Barn on Thursday, August 29 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Call Container World for details: 270-781-4145.

Chamber Chatter

> Partner awards & recognitions

small business spotlights

Established in Glasgow in 1975, Alliance Corporation has continued to provide

quality construction services to South Central Kentucky. In fact, Alliance Corporation has constructed over 150 projects in Bowling Green/Warren County alone, including Bowling Green Ball Park, SKyPAC and the new Augenstein Alumni Center located on the campus of Western Kentucky University. In June, Alliance Corporation celebrated a momentous occasion, the re-opening of their Bowling Green office. When asked about the new location, Chris Houchens, Marketing Director for Alliance Corporation, said, “After operating out of temporary facilities while constructing projects in the TIF District, Alliance Corporation wanted a permanent location. The office is located in the middle portion of the Kirtley Building, which sits in the midst of several of our signature projects. In addition, the new location will also serve as an operation hub for Warren County and select counties in the regional area.” For more information on Alliance Corporation, please visit http://www.alliancecorporation.com/.

Musician’s Pro – In 1996, Musician’s Pro started when friends and fellow musicians

William Moss and Sean Thomas decided to open a music store that would carry top music brands they wanted to play on and weren’t offered for sale locally such as Roland, Yamaha, Gibson, Marshall, Vox, and others. As with the many local businesses, Musician’s Pro has had to make adjustments to battle the slow economy and look for new ways to grow the business. Recently, their move just two doors down from their location of 16 years has allowed Musician’s Pro to give the aging store a new appearance and to expand its store size. Musicians Pro is proud of its newly expanded store, top name brands, and

superior sound, lighting, stage, and video systems. See more info and pics on the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/musicianspro.

Armory Lofts (www.armorylofts.com) by Owner/Developer David C. Garvin Jr.

are the first true loft spaces available as residences in Bowling Green. Constructed in the Drill Hall section of the old Bowling Green Armory, designated a local landmark, and characterized by voluminous space and panoramic views of local landmarks, the loft spaces will prominently

feature the building’s rugged architectural support structure. “There is no substitute for materials which have aged the better part of a century. The patina of the old Drill Hall’s architectural elements such as exposed masonry, concrete, wooden flooring, steel beams, and gridded rafters create such visual interest as well as a warm, hip, urban environment,” Garvin says. High ceilings, exposed steel trusses, and concrete floors are just the highlights of these innovative living spaces conveniently located downtown in close proximity to the fine dining, shops and the university. According to Garvin, only a few spots remain. Contact David C. Garvin for leasing information @ 270-320-2040 or email armorylofts@gmail.com

Alliance Moves In, Musicians Pro Relocates, Armory Lofts Opens

Alliance Corporation’s Bowling Green Headquarters in the Kirtley Building on College St.

Do you have news that matters?Your Chamber Connection is on the lookout for your recognition stories, employee promotions, milestones, expansions and celebrations. Submit your scoops and other 411 to our Programs & Events Coordinator, katie@bgchamber.com

4www.bgchamber.com | CHAMBER CONNECTION |

Register online for NOON Sessions:August 20September 24October 22

NHK-NASCO Turns Over New LEAF®NHK-NASCO, the first Japanese company to begin manufacturing operations in Bowling Green 27 years ago, held a Ribbon Cutting and Open House June 18 to celebrate opening of its new, $20 million Motor Core advanced manufacturing facility. NHK’s Motor Core Facility manufactures the motor core for the entirely electric, zero-emission Nissan LEAF®

Jennifer McNelly, President of The Manufacturing Institute, the non-profit affiliate of the National

Association of Manufacturers (NAM), will speak in Bowling Green October 3 at the Chamber’s annual Business and Industry Appreciation Banquet. As President of the Institute, Jennifer has driven an agenda focused on improving and expanding manufacturing in the United States through education, innovation, and research. Prior to joining the Institute, Jennifer, a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES), was Administrator for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office (DOL) Office of Regional Innovation and Transformation. She also served as the Director of the Business

Relations Group for the DOL Employment and Training Administration. In this capacity, she managed the President’s High-Growth Job Training Initiative and the Community-Based Job Training Grants. Her strong private-sector experience includes serving as the Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, LLC, an international consulting firm specializing in assisting Fortune 500 corporations build strategic partnerships with government agencies in support of workforce development.

Jennifer is a member of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Personnel Certification Accreditation Committee, the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) Education Foundation, and the Jobs for DC Graduates Board of Directors.

Manufacturing Institute President to Headline 2013 Chamber Business & Industry Dinner October 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEWS

5 | CHAMBER CONNECTION | AUGUST 2013

The data collection phase of KAM’s 2013 Annual Manufacturing Wage and Benefits Survey is underway.

The Kentucky Association of Manufac-turers (KAM) invites Chamber Partners to participate in its 2013 Manufacturing Wage and Benefits Survey. As a benefit for completing the survey, you will receive a complimentary electron-ic copy of KAM’s 2013 Annual Manufac-turing Wage and Benefits Survey report for your region as well as the statewide report.

The report generated by this survey will contain the most current, accurate and relevant information you need to make the best hiring and promotion decisions for your company. Follow the link, “www.qsurvey.com/kam.” Then create a user account and follow the instructions. Then, create a user account by following the instructions onlin. For your conve-nience, you can stop, save and restart the survey at any time. All information you

provide will remain strictly confidential and all results will be presented in aggre-gate form by the third-party research firm, IQS Research. If you have any questions about the sur-vey, or experience problems while taking the survey, please feel free to contact Ryan Gore, Data Collections Coordinator with IQS Research. Click here to contact Ryan by e-mail or call him at 502-244-6600, ext. 302.

Manufacturing Wage & Benefits Survey Underway

Surrounded by hudreds of area community leaders and Corvette enthusiasts, Commonwealth Secretary

of Tourism, Arts and Heritage Bob Stewart and Corvette Racing Program Manager Doug Fehan joined forces with the National Corvette Museum to break ground on NCM’s $20 million, 184-acre, dual-track NCM Motorsports Park. The groundbreaking opens the throttle on up to 80,000 visitors each year, bringing an estimated impact of $15 million in motorsports tourism and racing events revenues. “Motorsports enthusiasts from across America have a new favorite destination,” announced Bob Stewart, Secretary of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. “once fully operational, The NCM Motorsports Park will draw as many as 80,000 visitors to Bowling Green to drive their dreams.”

“Corvette Racing has long hoped for just such an outstanding track with exciting features,” noted Doug Fehan, Program Manager of Corvette Racing, who participated in the groundbreaking. “Our drivers and many proud Corvette owners are looking forward to experiencing this premier motorsports facility. We enjoyed every minute of our participation in the design process.” The NCM Motorsports Park will be situated on 184 acres purchased and rezoned by the National Corvette Museum. Two circuits, “East” and “West” can be combined in multiple configurations ranging from a high speed loop of 1.96 miles to an extended 3.15 mile technical course. The Corvette Racing/Pratt and Miller Team advised NCM on the layout of the technical track that will include features from their favorite and most challenging track, the Le Mans circuit. Jack Matukas, Chair of the NCM Board

of Directors, added, “When the NCM Motorsports Park gates open next year, our region will not only see increased visits and events sponsored by Corvette owners and fans, but from just about every different sports car club in America.” Wendell Strode, Executive Director of NCM observed, “Because of the outpouring of financial support by thousands of contributors including the Bowling Green Convention and Visitors Bureau, we are on track to open the NCM Motorsports Park on the 20th Anniversary of the National Corvette Museum—Labor Day weekend 2014.” “As the community so fortunate to host an international attraction like the National Corvette Museum, the NCM Motorsports Park will turbo-charge Bowling Green’s already-powerful position in the high-performance motorsports world,” added Brad Howard, Chair of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

6www.bgchamber.com | CHAMBER CONNECTION |

NCM Breaks Ground on Motorsports ParkNational Corvette Museum’s $20 million project adds internationalmotorsports attraction to region

Dunlap RV321 Corvette Drive

The Yard Park5250 Scottsville Rd

Hancock Bank & Trust Company2501 Crossings Blvd.

Welcome New Chamber PartnersArmory Lofts“Bowling Green’s first urban loft-style resi-dences in a landmark setting.”1015 Chestnut StreetBowling Green, KY 42102armorlofts@gmail.comwww.armorylofts.comDavid C. Garvin, JR. Owner

Bluegrass Health Clinic“Primary care and internal medicine office with lab and radiology services. accepting walk-in appointments.”440 High StreetBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 282-7105Cassi Nushart, MHA, Practice Manager

Bob Evans Restaurant“home-style family dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner.”145 Three Springs RoadBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 781-3799www.bobevans.comJason Powell, General Manager

Byrd’s Do It All, LLC“One call does it all. There is no need for calling multiple contractors for all of your items on your “to do list”.”4420 Maple LaneBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 784-8001www.byrdsdoitall.comClay Byrd, Owner

Calvert Spring Water Company“home, office and industrial delivery of

5 gallon natural spring water with cooler rental. We also carry 5 gallon distilled water, case products and filtration coolers.”PO Box 175Scottsville, KY 42164(270) 622-2700www.calvertspringwater.comSarah Myers, President

Center for Pain Management“An institute dedicated to treatment of pain with a mission to provide pain relief to all patients in a compassionate and compre-hensive manner.”440-B High StreetBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 282-7116www.thecenterforpainmanagement.comRam Pasupuleti, MD

CenterPointe Church“Reaching up to God and reaching out to people.”1807 Cave Mill RoadBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 904-4454www.centerpointewired.orgDave Deerman, Lead Pastor

Decker Services“Asphalt sealcoating, pressure washing, fence installation, Bobcat work. We offer professional services and we pride our-selves on your satisfaction.”1051 Bryant Way, Suite KBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 842-2110Joe Decker, President

Dunlap RV Center“Recreation vehicle sales, parts and service. Selling new and used travel trailers and fifth wheels. Expanding with our fourth dealership.”321 Corvette DriveBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 904-1456Mark Woltjen, Manager

IFS Technologies“Specializing in managed IT services, busi-ness continuity solutions, technical sup-port, IT security and technology consult-ing to the Bowling Green area.”946-A Searcy WayBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 781-6636www.ifstechnologies.comMatthew Cantine, VP IT

Illuminanz“Event lighting services. We design and light wedding, schools, proms, birthday parties, reunions, anniversaries and corpo-rate events.”86 Fox Run WayBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 535-2865www.illuminanz.comChad Hunt, Owner

Laurus Strategies“A full service employment benefits and HR consulting firm.”201 E Jefferson Street, Suite 201-BLouisville, KY 40202(502) 415-3293www.laurusstrategies.comTroy Brooks, Senior Consultant

Lazarus Chiropractic of Kentucky1249 US 31-W BypassBowling Green, ky 42101(270) 715-7000elkinschiro.comJames Newsom, Service Coordinator

Lighthouse Trailer Sales & Leasing“We provide storage trailers and 20’ and 40’ storage containers for rent or sale. Financing available.”2809 Russellville RoadBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 535-2783www.lighthousetrailersales.comArdie Baxter, Owner

Purity Dairies432 Dishman LaneBowling Green, KY 42101-4009(270) 781-7480www.whypurity.comTony Shryock, Branch Manager

Rainbow Home Care, LLC“Our goal is to help clients reach their optimal level of health and to assist them in maintaning their independence in their own home as long as possible!”830 Fairview Avenue, Suite A3Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 745-0033www.rainbowhomecarellc.comJessie Ayers, CFO

Smoke-Free Kentucky“A coalition of organizations and individu-als dedicated to making Kentucky smoke-free in all public places and workplaces.”

4781 Firebrook BoulevardLexington, KY 40513(859) 948-4626www.smokefreekentucky.orgJamie Ennis Bloyd, Grassroots Director

Stepping Out on Faith Ministries, Inc.“Providing ministry and eduction to individuals in order to provide physical, emotional and spiritual benefits through a deepened understanding of Jesus Christ.”805 Park Hills StreetBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 681-0080www.steppingoutonfaith.orgLonnie Winston, CEO/President

TownPlace Suites by Marriott1818 Cave Mill RoadBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 782-4714

West Star Properties, LLC“An award-winning residential and com-mercial real estate company based in BG.”1357 State StreetBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 260-2257Dan Murph, Owner

The Yard Park5250 Scottsville RoadBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 842-4253Jessica Thorne, Marketing Coordinator

New Partners:Tune In To Hear

Your Business Named on the Radio

8 www.bgchamber.com | CHAMBER CONNECTION |

Bluegrass Health Clinic440 High Street

Center for Pain Management 440-B High Street

Hotel SYNC518 Corvette Drive

7

RiBBon CUttingS and gRoUndBReakingS

| CHAMBER CONNECTION | AUGUST 2013

Tuesday, August 207:30 a.m-9:30 a.m. at the Chamber

710 College StreetBowling Green, KY

Retail Strategies for GrowthA review of key ideas to help local

retailers compete in today’s changing world

o Key ways to grow your business using select on-line tools

o How consumer changes are impacting retailing… and how you might respond

o Merchandizing and floor layout for improved sales

o Ideas on how to compete with large national chains

Presented by the Western Kentucky University Small Business Development Center

Register online by visiting www.bgchamber.com

business at its best

Thank you to our Renewing Partners

Watch the August Chamber Monthly Magazine

Featuring The Leader in Me, Business & Industry Appreciation and Our Newest President’s Club

Partner, Bowling Green Christian Academy

On Time Warner Cable Channel 57:30 a.m. | Noon | 6:30 p.m. | 10 p.m.

Note, airing may be preempted by special programming.

9 | CHAMBER CONNECTION | AUGUST 2013

Zaxby’s FunRaiser August 21Leadership Bowling Green is having a Zaxby’s Fun-Raising Night August 21 to benefit Plano and Parker Bennett Curry Elementary Schools! Be sure to mention Leadership Bowling Green when you visit any area Zaxby’s on August 21 between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Action Pest ControlAffordable Property Services, Inc.AirgasAkins Construction, Inc.Americas Car Mart dba Car Mart of Bowling GreenBethany Christian ServicesBG-WC Welfare CenterBobcat of Bowling GreenBowling Green Blind CompanyBowling Green Christian Academy, Inc.Bowling Green Hot RodsBowling Green Machine & Welding CompanyBowling Green MonumentBowling Green Nursing and Rehabilitation CenterBowling Green RecyclingBoys & Girls Club of Bowling GreenBrock McVey CompanyPhil Brown ConstructionCapitol Window & DoorMary E. CarpenterConnected Nation, Inc.Control Systems Design & Automation, Inc.Crye*Leike Executive Realty

DDS Engineering, PLLCDeemer Floral CompanyDestiny DentalJimmy Diemer’s Self StorageDisability Resource InitiativeDowntown ChiropracticE-Z Rent-It, Inc.First Choice Home MedicalFlowers by ShirleyGary Force, Inc. Toyota/HondaThe Fortress Group dba Park Mammoth ResortFukuda USA, Inc.Geoghegan Roofing & Supply, Inc.Greenwood Ford Lincoln MercuryGriffin Grinders, LLC dba Mancino’sHabitat for Humanity of BG/Warren County, Inc.Haven4Change, Inc.Holley Performance ProductsHOTEL INCImage Ink Screen PrintingInternational PaperIrving Materials, Inc.ISTT, Inc.

Jim Johnson Nissan & Jim Johnson HyundaiBennie Jones ConstructionK & B Striping, Inc.Kirby Builders, LLCKobe AluminumKonica Minolta Business SolutionsLand Shark Shredding, LLCLeadership Bowling Green Alumni AssociationLord CorporationLost River Pizza CompanyMagna CAR TOP SYSTEMS (Bowling Green) LLCManpower Employment Services ProviderMathnasium of Bowling GreenMiracle MattressNASCONoon Lions ClubOne Stop WellnessOverhead Door Company of Bowling GreenOverTime Sports Bar & GrillPremier Integrity SolutionsAlan ReadRosewood Health Care Center

Scotty’s Development CompanyShelby RecyclingSitex CorporationSocial Security AdministrationSouth Central Chapter of The Kentucky Restaurants AssociationSoutheast Financial Credit UnionSouthern KY Mechanical, LLCSouthland Manufacturing Company, Inc.Sowders Company Designers/BuildersStanley Steemer Carpet CleanerBarbara Stewart InteriorsRay ThomasTire Pro’s of Southern KentuckyToby’s Pest Control ServiceTrace Die Cast, Inc.Uspiritus-Bellewood Bowling GreenV V I Fulfillment/Shop NBCYogi Bear’s Jellystone Camp Resort

2013 BUSINESS & INDUSTRY BANQUET The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce will be recognizing South Central Kentucky’s targeted

businesses, which are those that do more than 50% of their business outside of the state, bringing new dollars into our region to our businesses and families at our 2013 Business & Industry Appreciation Banquet:

Thursday, October 3rd Reception 5:30PM

Awards Dinner 6:30PM National Corvette Museum

Tickets can be purchased NOW by registering online at www.bgchamber.com. Tickets purchased online and through September 16th are $65 per person and tables of 10 for $585. After September 16, ticket prices will increase $10. Awards to be presented during the banquet include:

John B. Holland Business of the Year

Export Excellence

Business Expansion Green-to-Gold

Newcomer Business Innovation

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES 5 – Supporting Awards @ $1,500

Four tickets Name and logo on table tent and in video Name in program Logo and name on screen during award

presentation

Photo opportunity with award winners after banquet

Special recognition in newsletters (hard copy and special e-newsletters)

Two-month rotator on www.bgchamber.com homepage

8– Presentation Support @ $500 Print, Audio, Visual, Bar & Regional Tables

Name in program Special recognition in newsletters (hard copy and special e-newsletters)

Signage beside presentation/on tables and video screens

SPONSOR SIGN UP Secure your sponsorship by completing and returning by fax to (270) 843-0458 Contact Abbie at abbie@bgchamber.com or (270) 901-4610 with any questions.

Partner:

Contact Name:

Email:

Phone:

Requested Sponsor Type and Amount:

2013 BUSINESS & INDUSTRY BANQUET AWARD NOMINATION John B. Holland Business of the Year

For a South Central Kentucky company that makes a significant impact on the local economy and continues to demonstrate investment growth while remaining committed to employing local residents.

Business Expansion Awards For South Central Kentucky companies that expanded their operations in 2013, investing capital and

creating jobs for local residents Newcomer Awards

For new-to-South Central Kentucky companies that announced their location here in 2013 Export Excellence Awards

For south Central Kentucky companies with new or significant increase in documented export sales in 2013 Green-to-Gold Awards

For South Central Kentucky companies that – through product or process – best exemplify “green” leadership as it pertains to the region’s goal to become a leader in this emerging field.

Business Innovation Awards For South Central Kentucky companies that – through product or process – best exemplify innovative

leadership PLEASE SUBMIT THIS COMPLETED FORM TO DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS AND EVENTS –

ABBIE SILJENDAHL AT ABBIE@BGCHAMBER.COM OR FAX TO (270) 843.0458 BY FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH, AT 4:30 PM

Award Category Business of the Year Business Expansion Newcomer

Export Excellence Green-to-Gold Business Innovation Company Information Company Name

Contact Name Phone

Current Employee Count (Full-Time) Current Employee Count (Part-Time)

Year of Location in South Central Kentucky Number of Expansion

Company Product(s)

What are the strengths of this company? What impact has this company made on Bowling Green/South Central Kentucky? What has the company done that is innovative or unique? What are the company’s export sales for 2013? (Export Excellence nomations only) What is the compnay doing to practice “green” leadership? (Green-to-Gold nominations only) Descriptions of Awards can be found at www.bgchamber.com

Please submit your answers to the following questions along with this application

The Big Red RoastThe Big Red Roast

NOMINATIONS fOrCHAMBEr BOArdOf dIrECTOrS

Do you know someone who you think would be a great addition to the Chamber’s Board of Directors? If so, the Chamber is accepting nominations. Nomination forms are available at www.bgchamber.com. If you have questions about the nomination process, contact crystal@bgchamber.com.

Connect & Build your networkreminders:

> Let’s do Lunch: august 15 - 11 a.m. at Wendy’s Scottsville rd.> Business at it’s Best: Tuesday, august 20

7:30 a.m-9:30 a.m. at the Chamber> Chamber 101: august 20 - 12:00 noon at the Chamber> Business after Hours: august 22 - 4:30-6:30 p.m.

by Chuck’s Liquor Outlet - in the Bowling Green Ball Park

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to offer a new networking program we’re calling Let’s Do Lunch. This new program offers our over 1,600 Chamber partner representatives a convenient way to network during the lunch-hour— adding a new networking option for mid-day. In the months of August, September and October, the Chamber will run the Let’s Do Lunch networking program.

To do “Let’s Do Lunch” just right:• Download the online

registration menu from www.bgchamber.com

• Choose the dates you want to attend by clicking on the corresponding menu choice

• Take advantage of the special “Pre-Pay” offers to save time and money

• Mark your calendar - all Let’s Do Lunch events start promptly at 11:00 AM

• Bring 25-30 of your business cards and/or promo items for goodie bags!

For more information, contact tonya@bgchamber.com.

12 www.bgchamber.com | CHAMBER CONNECTION |

Benefit for the Charles M. Moore Jr. Leadership Fund

Big Red Roasters Kevin Brooks, Abraham Williams, and Lucinda Anderson held nothing back (that we know of) while roasting their friend and colleague, WKU President Dr. Gary Ransdell July 18 at the National Corvette Museum.

President Ransdell saved a delicious rebuttal, pleasing a record crowd at the annual benefit for Charles M. Moore Leadership Fund. The bottom line: Two full scholarships for each of the Chamber’s community leadership immersion programs, Leadership Bowling Green and Leader-ship South Central Kentucky. Special thanks to 2012 roastee, Judge Executive Mike Buchanon for being “Master of Ceremonies,” to Chamber Board Member Robbin Taylor “Big Red Roast executive producer”, WKU Spirit Masters, Big Red, Rafferty’s, Country Oven Bakery and Sam’s Club.

President’s Club Silver Star Partner Alliance Corporation opens Bowling

Green office

President’s Club Platinum Star Partner Citizens First Thunderfest

President’s Club Platinum Star Partner U.S. Bank’s Balloons, Tunes and BBQ

SAVE THE DATE: Ribbon Cutting for The Medical Center-Western Kentucky University

Medical Sciences Complex - August 22

President’s Club Bronze Star Partner American Bank & Trust sponsors Stand

for Children Day

13 | CHAMBER CONNECTION | AUGUST 2013

President’s Club Bronze Star Partner Whayne Supply celebrates 100 years in

business

President’s Club Partners invest in South Central Kentucky’s economic development strategy to attract business relocations, foreign direct investment, and assist our existing industries as they expand in our region.

WELCOME BACK WKU FESTIVAL11:00 AM - 3:00 PM - AUGUST 28

EXHIBITOR

DEADLINE

AUGUST 16

Chamber Partners will begin feeling the impact from the Chamber’s recently-acquired client relationship software this summer when a variety of new “Partner-Only” features are introduced. “This year, the Chamber’s primary goal is to add even more value to the Partnership investment,” said Tonya Matthews, Vice President, Partnership Services, “And now we’re delivering three new tools our Partners have asked for.”

Starting in August, Partners who login to the Partner-Only section of www.bgchamber.com will be able to post discounts, deals and promotions for their business. “Many of our Partners already offer special discounts to other Chamber Partners. This new feature will allow a Partner to post specials and promote discounts to the general public through our web site,” Matthews explained. For the August 28 Welcome Back WKU Festival, the Chamber will aggressively promote the availability of exclusive WKU student discounts, helping drive 21,000 students to Partner businesses.

In September, the Chamber’s Online Job Search will become available to Partners. The new Online Job Search will be a valuable, low-cost tool for Partners to advertise their job openings to the general public. The addition of this partnership benefit will help our Partners connect on a personal level with residents in the community and our

region. To take advantage of the low-cost job posting service, Partner-authorized representatives will login to the Partners-Only section of www.bgchamber.com and post job descriptions for positions they need to fill.

In October, Partners will see the Chamber’s new Partner News and Community Events Calendar. The Partners Online News Center will display Partners’ news and events to the general public. For many Partners, the opportunity to post events on the Community Calendar will be a valuable “bulletin-board” for announcing news about their business and upcoming events they want the community to know about. To use these included benefits, Partner-authorized representatives will login to the Partners-Only section of www.bgchamber.com to post their news items and events.

“From visits with more than 500 of our Chamber Partners, we learned that many of our Partners have low-cost marketing or employment needs. We searched for an answer and responded with these new, easy-to-use tools that will directly benefit our Partners,” Matthews added. As the new tools become available online, the Chamber will send personalized e-mails to every Chamber Partner with information about each new tool and instructions on how to access and use the new online benefits.

14 www.bgchamber.com | CHAMBER CONNECTION |

Introducing three new Chamber Partner Benefits

as Partner merchants post their deals and discounts using their new online advertising features, the Chamber’s @bgchamber Twitter will broadcast Partner deals and discounts to students and social media audiences who follow the Chamber Twitter feed

The Chamber’s red carpet welcome event for Western Kentucky University students will feature over 35 Chamber Partner exhibitors, fun, music and refreshments on WKU’s South Lawn. This year the Chamber will be giving students “@bgchamber saver follow cards” to remind

them to follow @bgChamber on Twitter to receive word of deals and discounts from Chamber Partners (see article below). To reserve your spot at Welcome Back WKU, call the Chamber today at (270) 781-3200.

Chamber Partner Destiny Dental is targeting Welcome Back Western students with a 10% discount using the new Partner Deals & Discounts benefit.

Chamber of Commerce

710 College StreetBowling Green, KY 42101270.781.3200 • Fax: 270.843.0458www.bgchamber.com

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Stretch Your InvestmentRoute this publication to others in your office.

The Leader in Me’s regional web site, www.theleaderinmesck.com was recently given an Award of Excellence by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). The easy-to-navigate, specialized site, developed by Chamber Partner Hitcents.com for The Leader in Me Capital Campaing was chosen from over 140 entries from across

the U.S. “We are happy to be a part of this success story for the Bowing Green Area Chamber of Commerce. We truly believe in the meaningful work they are doing for the community and are thankful to provide assistance to promote their mission,” said Ed Mills, Hitcents Co-Founder.

www.theleaderinmesck.com

learn more

visit a school

270.781.3200

is a community investment by tell us your story

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Hitcents’ Leader in Me Web Site Wins

Hitcents’ Leader in Me Web Site Wins

The Chamber’s 2013 Leadership Bowling Green class adopted Plano and Parker Bennett Curry elementary schools for the class’s community service project, then swiftly grabbed paint brushes and buckets of bright-colored paint to deck the schools’ halls for when students return. At Plano, the standard-

issue school pale green was replaced with bright green and royal blue to make way for student’s Leader in Me murals and artwork. At Parker Bennett Curry, the Leadership Bowling Green team painted street signs marking 7 Habits hallways such as “Synergize Street,” “Plan Ahead Place,” “Win-Win Way,” and “Leadership Lane.”

Leadership Bowling Green Pitches In With Paint

Leadership Bowling Green Pitches In With Paint