Bowling Green, KY 2011 Community Profile

Bowling Green & South Central Kentucky | 2011 Edition

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce | CommunityLink

Front Cover

75 YEARS

Bowling Green Area Chamber celebrates its diamond anniversary

Corvette Country National Corvette Museum a destination for fans of America’s Sports Car

Security Systems / Bank Equipment

AAA Systems — Page 39 1101 Shive Lane Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-842-1443 frank@aaasystems.com www.aaasystems.com

fax 270-746-9011

Specializing in the design, sales, and installation of security, bank, and communications equipment. We carry the following products: Security and Fire Alarms, CCTV, Access Control, Telephones, Data and Fiber Cabling, Safes, ATMs, Drive-Up Units, Vaults, Depositories, Bullet-Resistant Glass, and much more.

Storage 1945 Scottsville Road, Suite B2 PMB 359 Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-9999 fax 270-781-8888 www.uswarehousing.com

US Warehousing is a full-service warehouse and distribution operation with multiple locations in the Bowling Green Area.

Telecommunications

Bluegrass Cellular — Page 58

1661 Campbell Lane Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-8999 1355 Veterans Memorial Lane, Suite 102 (Oxford Center) Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-393-0355 www.bluegrasscellular.com

Bluegrass Cellular is the area’s only locally owned and operated wireless carrier, offering coverage where you live, work, and play in central Kentucky and now in southern Indiana.

Comstar Systems — Page 23

• Access Control • Cable TV • Closed-Circuit TV • Fire Alarm • Fire Extinguishers • Kitchen Hood Systems • Master Clocks • Computer Networks • Nurse Call • Public Access • Pro Sound • Telephone • Video • Data • Media Management

106 E. Wayne St. P.O. Box 515 Glasgow, KY 42142-0515 270-651-5597 www.startel.ws

fax 270-659-7829

• C-TAP Program • IP-VoIP Telecommunications • Remote Office Connectivity • Centralized System Management • Integrated Voice Mail • School Intercom/Clock/Paging • CCTV/MATV/CATV • Nurse Call/Patient Location

Tent Rental

US Warehousing — Page 28

944 Searcy Way Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-781-7076 comstar@bellsouth.net www.comstarsystems.com

Star*Tel Systems, Inc. — Page 53

fax 270-782-6076

Bowling Green Tent Rental — Page 66 2932 Crossridge Court Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-7368 bgtrbt@aol.com www.bgtentrental.com

fax 270-781-7688

Whatever the occasion, we’ve got you covered.

• Graduations • Family Reunions • Weddings • Receptions • Parties • Revivals • Real Estate & Cattle Auctions

Transportation

Community Action of Southern Kentucky — Page 13 921 Beauty Avenue P.O. Box 90014 Bowling Green, KY 42102-9014 270-782-3162 www.casoky.org/transportation

fax 270-842-5735

Community Action of Southern Kentucky operates GO bg transit for the City of Bowling Green. Public transit bus routes operate within city limits and GO, too, provides doorto-door transportation for persons with disabilities.

FedEx Ground — Page 60 155 Flex Park Drive S. Industrial Park Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-781-6480 www.fedex.com

fax 270-781-8073

index of advertisers Utilities

Vision

Bowling Green Municipal Utilities — Page 16 801 Center Street P.O. Box 10300 Bowling Green, KY 42102-7300 270-782-1200 www.bgmu.com

Downing-McPeak Vision Centers — Page 44 1403 Andrea Circle Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-4909 www.downing-mcpeak.com

fax 270-843-9678

Bowling Green Municipal Utilities is your hometown utility, providing water, wastewater treatment, electric, and commercial high-speed data services to our community.

Full-service ophthalmology and optometry practice offering complete eye exams, medical and surgical treatment of cataracts and glaucoma, diabetic eye care, refractive procedures such as LASIK and CK, and a full optical shop with the latest fashions.

Tennessee Valley Authority

Love and Warden Eye Care

6045 Russellville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101-7319 270-846-7040 www.tva.com

fax 270-846-7045

Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is a federal corporation, the nation’s largest public power provider, a steward of the Tennessee River basin, a national center for environmental research, and an economic development agency for parts of seven states.

Warren County Water District — Page 17 523 US Hwy 31-W Bypass P.O. Box 10180 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-842-0052 info@warrenwater.com www.warrenwater.com

fax 270-796-6072

Providing comprehensive eye care for the entire family.

Diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases and injuries.

Contact lens evaluations. Licensed optician to assist with the best frames and lenses for your prescription and budget.

Visitor Information fax 270-842-8360

Warren Water is recognized across the state and nationally for the professionalism and progressive approach we bring to providing clean, safe drinking water and reliable sewer services at affordable prices. Warren Water delivers quality and commitment in every drop.

Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corp. — Page 17 951 Fairview Ave. P.O. Box 1118 Bowling Green, KY 42102-1118 270-842-6541 www.wrecc.com

Dr. Tammy H. Love Dr. Trina R. Warden 1256 Campbell Lane, Suite 106 Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-796-6021 www.loveandwardeneyecare.com

fax 270-781-3299

District offices in Bowling Green, Franklin, Leitchfield, and Morgantown. For over 70 years, Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation, a member-owned utility, has been dedicated to improving the quality of life of its over 60,000 member-owners.

Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau — Page 61 352 Three Springs Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-782-0800 info@visitbgky.com www.visitbgky.com

fax 270-842-2104

Staffed information center with maps and brochures. Gift Shop with Bowling Green souvenirs and Kentucky-made products. Convention services available: registration assistance, name tags, welcome bags, VIP gifts.

contents 4

2011 edition

overview

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce....................................................5 Chairman’s Comments.................................................................................7 Downtown Dynamic......................................................................................8

10

community profile

The Bowling Green Area by the Numbers......................................................11

12

government

Voices of Community Leaders.....................................................................13 Corvette Country........................................................................................14

15

utilities

Committed to Community...........................................................................16

18

business & industry Expanding Enterprise.................................................................................19 Starting Up in South Central Kentucky.........................................................21 Shiloh Industries Selects Kentucky Transpark................................................24 Support Structure......................................................................................25 www.southcentralkentucky.com...................................................................26 Getting Help to Get Started........................................................................27 The Kentucky Transpark..............................................................................28 Chinese Guests Introduced to South Central Kentucky...................................30 Women Leading the Way............................................................................31

32

education

Progressive Public Schools.........................................................................33 Private Schools..........................................................................................35 Other Regional School Districts...................................................................35 Getting Down to Business in Area Schools ..................................................36 The Confucius Institute...............................................................................37 Western Kentucky University.......................................................................37 The Carroll Knicely Conference Center: Expanding Possibilities.......................38 Economic Development at BGTC.................................................................39

www.bgchamber.com | 1

contents 2 0 1 1

E d i t i o n

a CommunityLink Publication

VP of Production Operations Amanda White Design Team Leader Kelly Friederich Managing Editor Laura Wilcoxen Contributing Writers Mark Allen, David Ballard, Katie Beard, Jennifer Bull, Betsy Cooksey, Jay Nehrkorn, Alan Palmer, Laura Wilcoxen Proofreader Christina Reese Content Consultant Jay Nehrkorn Director of Photography Kacey Wolters Photography Daniel Draper, David Francis, Devin Miller, Marshal Ray, Shutterbug Photo Mall Cover Photo Devin Miller Additional Images Provided by Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, Bowling Green Technical College, Bowling Green Western Symphony Orchestra, DLR Group, Greenville Regional Hospital, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Junior Achievement, Logan County , Topura America Fastener Lead Design Kelly Friederich Director of GIS Aimee Garcia Wheatley Web Site Creation & Support Josh Chandler

Director of Business Development George Prudhomme Director of Outside Sales Debbie Moss VP Chief Marketing Officer Joe Jaggie VP Chief Sales Officer Tom Hoyt Marketing Specialist Shawna Williams Business Development Manager Bonnie Ebers Customer Service Director Kathy Risley Ad Research Mary Kopshever, Amy Schwartzkopf Ad Traffic Carol Smith Ad Design Josh Mueller Administrative Support Kathy Hagene, Carol Smith Account Support Terri Ahner, Tricia Cannedy Human Resources Assistant Teresa Craig Mailroom Technician Melinda Bowlin Publishing Systems Specialist Christopher Miller Chairman and Founder Craig Williams Chief Financial Officer Rhonda Harsy

Director of Media Purchasing Diana Vaughn

This book is published by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce with CommunityLink, a publishing service of Craig Williams Creative, Inc. Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Tonya L. Matthews – Vice President, Chamber Operations Jessica Thompson – Communications Director 710 College St., P.O. Box 51, Bowling Green, KY 42102 Phone 270-781-3200, Fax 270-843-0458 U.S. Toll-Free 866-330-2422 www.bgchamber.com 4742 Holts Prairie Road, P.O. Box 306, Pinckneyville, IL 62274 Phone 800-455-5600 Fax 866-381-9759 www.communitylink.com © 2011 Craig Williams Creative, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

2 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

contents

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real estate

Residential Real Estate..................................... 41 Commercial Real Estate.................................... 42

43

healthcare The Medical Center........................................... 44 Greenview Regional Hospital.............................. 46 Graves-Gilbert Clinic......................................... 48 Specialized Healthcare...................................... 49 Retire in Bowling Green..................................... 50

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churches Area Congregations........................................... 54

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culture & entertainment S KyPAC to Bring Outstanding Performances to Bowling Green........................ 56 Downtown Merchants & Professionals Association........57 Music in the Air: Concerts in the Park................. 58 Moving to the Midwest for Major Action.............. 59 Theatre .......................................................... 60 Music.............................................................. 61 Festivals & Events............................................. 62

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recreation & tourism Aviation Heritage Park....................................... 65 National Corvette Museum................................ 66 South Central Kentucky Attractions..................... 67 Family Fun....................................................... 68

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Index of Advertisers................... 70

www.bgchamber.com | 3

overview 4 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

B y J ay N ehrkorn

overview

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has 75 years of success and a wealth of strengths to build on.

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arren County has an amaz- has a magnificent structure, and who knows Under the direction of leaders such as ing history of growth and what the Chamber has in store next.”

Huffman and Chairman Carroll Hildreth, the prosperity, having tripled in Strong leadership has also been a Chamber Chamber became nationally accredited by the population since the 1930s hallmark. The community has long bene- U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 1973, an imporas expanding infrastructure and solid leader- fited from the vision of leaders such as Elvis tant accomplishment for the entire organization. ship brought a diverse mix of industries to Campbell, who became the Chamber’s first paid Just as important is the fact that the Chamber’s the region. Established in 1935, the Bowling director in the late 1950s. It was Campbell who accreditation has not only been maintained Green Area Chamber of Commerce has been established the first permanent office, as well every year since then, but has been upgraded there all the while, growing with the commu- as an industrial foundation that launched four in status to reach the pinnacle of the USCC’s nity and providing support for the rating system. Having achieved 5-Star region’s public and private sectors.

Accreditation in 2009, the Bowling The Chamber reached its 75th year Green Area Chamber is now part of of operation in 2010, and this proan elite group of less than 1 percent gressive organization of over 1,300 of all chambers nationwide. partners had much to celebrate durAnother major distinction for the ing their diamond anniversary.

Chamber in 2009 was being named It can truly be said that the Chamber of the Year by the American Chamber has come a long way withChamber of Commerce Executives out ever leaving downtown Bowling (ACCE). Known as a premier instituGreen. In its earliest days, Chamber tion in the industry, ACCE offers this headquarters were located within award to chambers in three different the home or office of its volunteer size categories, and only top-ranked Established in 1935, the Bowling Green Area leadership. It wasn’t until the late chambers in each division are invited 1950s that the Chamber took up Chamber of Commerce has been there all the while, to apply. Bowling Green was a finalist residence in its own building. The for the award in 2008, and winning growing with the community and providing support it in 2009 was a thrill for everyone office has moved three times since then, and the construction of the involved. for the region’s public and private sectors. current headquarters has been a sigThanks to generations of loyal nificant achievement. Dedicated in support from within the community, June 2007, this beautifully designed, $4 million business parks and set the stage for the current the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce facility at 710 College Street does much more Kentucky Transpark. Building on the founda- has 75 years of success and a wealth of strengths than just create workspace for executives and tion that Campbell set was Harold Huffman, to build on. Looking ahead with a broadstaff; it conveys the community’s strong com- who served as executive vice president of the ened regional perspective, Chamber leaders are mitment to progress to visiting delegates and Chamber from 1962 until his death in 1983. excited about new opportunities to fulfill their prospective businesses.

In his 20-plus years in this capacity, Huffman mission in the community and hopeful for yet “It has always been a step up along with the introduced countless businesses and industries another era of growth in Warren County. With progress of the growth of the community,” for- to the community and played a pivotal role in all of this momentum, who knows what great mer Board Chairman Ray Buckberry said of the the construction of the state-of-the-art Sloan things are yet to come? many location changes. “Today, the Chamber Convention Center. www.bgchamber.com | 5

6 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Chairman’s Comments

overview

“With a strong sense of family and a progressive mindset, we are on track to heighten our community’s offerings even more.”

I

am truly honored to serve as the 2011 chairman of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors. Our Chamber is nationally recognized by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for being one of the best in the nation.

We work continuously to provide the best possible services to Bowling Green and the surrounding South Central Kentucky region. I am immensely proud to be a part of this work.

Our Chamber is just one of the reasons I’m proud to be a resident of South Central Kentucky. In 2010, Bowling Green was ranked as a finalist for the AllAmerican Cities Awards, given by the National Civic League. We’ve also been

recognized as one of the best places to live and play by National Geographic Adventure, and we’re consistently named one of the top in the nation for industry location and expansion projects for communities of our size. These are just a few of the reasons we are a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

National recognition isn’t the only reason our community is impressive.

With a strong sense of family and a progressive mindset, we are on track to heighten our community’s offerings even more. With a new state-of-the-art minor league baseball field and the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center, scheduled to open in 2011, Bowling Green’s downtown revitalization efforts are in full force. Other parts of this revitalization include the new Chamber headquarters and Circus Square Park, which opened in 2008. These additions to downtown Bowling Green give our city a new look, but they also represent the community’s commitment to creating a lasting impression for our residents and visitors.

Take a look at the pages of this magazine and you’ll see the high quality of life that our region offers. You’ll find that we are a thriving community, one that has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, one that urges you to call it home.

Rodney Rogers 2011 Chairman of the Board of Directors Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Our Chamber is nationally recognized by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for being one of the best in the nation. www.bgchamber.com | 7

Downtown Dynamic

B y M ark A llen

overview

The drive is on to hit $150 million in downtown investment by 2014.

A new fire department, condominiums, and numerous and diverse businesses are among early achievements in Bowling Green.

8 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

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hile economic uncertainty has made some communities tentative about new development, a cohesive, can-do commitment to progress is still in force among key players focused on downtown Bowling Green.

The statistics involve millions of dollars in investments; the results will be infinite benefits in economic growth and in quality of life. It’s all being done by a community standing shoulder to shoulder to lift together.

“We really do believe that the downtown development project is the largest ever attempted in South Central Kentucky,” said Mary Cohron, treasurer and secretary as well as past chair of the Warren County Downtown Development Authority.

The drive is on to hit $150 million in downtown investment by 2014, and the pace is strong at $62 million and counting. A new fire department, condominiums, and numerous and diverse businesses are among early achievements.

Meanwhile, new and improved cultural and sports anchors like Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green Ballpark, and the Concerts in the Park series are drawing people downtown. When they arrive, there’s a lot for them to discover.

overview “We’ve got a nice array of businesses,” said Downtown Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Cheryl Blaine. “It’s the service that sets it apart.”

Further progress is ongoing. Cohron cited several exciting projects in various stages, including parking, housing, retail and office developments, an alumni center, and the prospects of a new hotel.

While committed to progress, developers are equally determined that the community’s rich past will not be left behind. They’re careful to maintain the important structures and heritage still in place. “We’re trying to balance development with historic preservation,” Cohron said.

“That’s a delicate balance at times.”

Additionally, the nation’s economic difficulties have added new complications and challenges to the work. “We’ve had to be really creative in how we’ve financed the redevelopment,” Cohron said.

It’s these challenges, however, that have really defined the work — and the workers.

As Cohron notes, what might have brought another community to a halt brought Bowling Green community members together; and their accomplishments speak to their commitment.

“The results set Bowling Green apart, as we worked together to meet the challenge.”

www.bgchamber.com | 9

community profile

10 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

community profile 14.8%

The Bowling Green Area by the Numbers

1

Population growth rate for Bowling Green, 2000–2009

Bowling Green’s ranking among 184 cities on Forbes’ 2010 list of the “Best Small Places for Business and Careers” Bowling Green’s rank on the Milken Institute’s 2008 list of the 124 “Best Performing Cities”

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2009 ranking among chambers of its size by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives IEDC’s ranking of the Bowling Green Area Chamber’s “Menu of Services Program” among “Regionalism and Cross-border Collaboration” projects

35

2%

From 2007 to 2008, the Bowling Green Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) saw 2 percent positive growth in GDP, ranking it in the top 25th percentile for growth compared to the entire 368 MSAs in the nation (U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis)

6

8

10

Chinese delegates hosted by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce for a tour of Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky in May 2010

12

Bowling Green’s spot on CNNMoney.com’s 2009 list of “Best Small Places to Launch a Small Business”

300+

Number of volunteers who donate time to support the efforts of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

4.26% 2,155 Average growth of per capita income for Bowling Green and Warren County from 2005 to present (projected 2009 per capita income: $32,500)

9

Site selectors hosted during the Chamber’s South Central Kentucky Familiarization Tour in June 2009 Bowling Green’s spot on Site Selection’s 2009 list for number of industry locations and expansions (Bowling Green’s second year in the top 10)

100 South Central Kentucky’s distance in miles from the Eastern U.S. population base

Years in a row Bowling Green has been among the top 35 on the Forbes list of the “Best Small Places for Business and Careers”

Stars of Accreditation received by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce

40

South Central Kentucky’s average January temperature (degrees Fahrenheit)

7

5,000+

Number of colleges and universities located within 60 miles of Bowling Green

Number of counties partnering in the region’s one-of-a-kind, international-award-winning Menu of Services Regional Economic Development program

Seats (including lawn seating) in the Hot Rods’ Bowling Green Ballpark

6,600

Total of new jobs the region has created since 2004

49,296

$10 56,598 Price of a box seat at Bowling Green Ballpark to see the Hot Rods play baseball

Total of direct (1,658) and indirect (497) jobs created in South Central Kentucky in 2010

U.S. Census Bureau 2000 population for Bowling Green

U.S. Census Bureau 2009 population estimate for Bowling Green

$800 million

Amount of economic investment made in the region since 2004 www.bgchamber.com | 11

government

The Bowling Green Police Department: Each summer the Bowling Green Police Department hosts a three-day Junior Police Academy for students ages 10–13.

The students learn about the reality of policing in the community and get to meet Bowling Green Police Officers. Hands-on activities include a basic introduction to criminal law and police procedures, personal and traffic safety, special guest speakers (K-9 and other special unit officers), fingerprinting and crime scene investigation, a tour of the Warren County Regional Jail, and a mock trial at the Warren County Justice Center.

12 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

government Voices of Community Leaders “We work together.”

Mayor Elaine Walker, on Bowling Green Community Spirit: “Our family moved to Bowling Green in 1993 from Los Angeles, and it’s a decision that has proven excellent for us. I truly enjoy the people of Bowling Green and the sense of community. People are just willing to roll up their sleeves and get things done. We work together — it doesn’t matter what party, it doesn’t matter what your viewpoint is — when it comes to selling our community, we are all on the same page.”

Judge Executive Michael Buchanon: “Warren County has a wealth of community-minded people. Chamber partners are interested in economic development and are involved and engaged in community growth and improvement. There is nothing more enjoyable than serving the public when you can feel their active support and we are all working for the same goals.

The most rewarding aspect of public service is to feel that your efforts are making an immediate and long-term positive difference in the lives of everyone in the area.”

The Bowling Green Fire Department: The BGFD continually strives to meet the needs of the community it serves. In order to help reach that goal, a new $1.75 million Administration Building was constructed to consolidate several administration offices into one central location. The Headquarters Fire Station received an extensive renovation that allowed for expanded sleeping quarters and workout areas, and renovations to the Airport Fire Station are currently under way. The BGFD now has six fire stations and the new Administrative Building, along with a top-notch fleet of firetrucks to meet the changing demands of the growing Bowling Green community.

www.bgchamber.com | 13

Nowhere is the love affair stronger than in Kentucky.

B y J ennifer B ull

government Corvette Country

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orvettes in Europe, Asia, or the United States all have one thing in common — they were born in Bowling Green, Kentucky. In 1981, the General Motors Corvette Plant opened in Bowling Green, the sole manufacturer of the Corvette. On July 2, 1992, the Bowling Green plant celebrated the production of the 1 millionth Corvette; on May 28, 2009, the 1.5 millionth. Bowling Green is also proud to be the home of the National Corvette Museum, celebrating the Corvette and preserving its past, present, and future.

The Kentucky Legislature felt that this special relationship with America’s Sports Car was well worth celebrating — officially. With the governor’s signing of HB 104 on April 26, 2010, the Corvette became the official sports car of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The Bowling Green Chamber Board of Directors enthusiastically supported the bill.

“Naming the Corvette the state’s official sports car will demonstrate Kentucky’s deep appreciation for the Corvette, as well as the General Motors

SHELTON & ASSOCIATES LLP CPAS • Accounting • Auditing • Tax • Business Valuations • Litigation Support • Forensics

14 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Jerry W. Shelton CPA/ABV/CFF, CVA Managing Partner

Craig E. Heller CPA/MTX Partner

842-9620 181 West Professional Park Ct. Bowling Green, KY 42104

Jerry Shelton

Craig Heller

842-7298

842-1485

Res. 1341 Drakes Ridge Ln. Bowling Green

703 Highland Way Bowling Green

Corvette Plant and the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky,” said 2010 Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Joe Natcher.

“As home to the Corvette plant in Bowling Green, Kentuckians have long considered the Corvette to be Kentucky’s sports car and a great symbol of Kentucky pride and craftsmanship,” Gov. Steve Beshear said. “It was with great pleasure that I signed HB 104 into law.”

utilities

www.bgchamber.com | 15

Committed to Community

B y D avid B allard

utilities

Being good corporate citizens means more than just good service and a solid bottom line.

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or South Central Kentucky’s utility companies, being good corporate citizens means more than just good service and a solid bottom line. It also includes a commitment to going beyond everyday tasks, duties, and responsibilities to serve the greater good of their communities.

Bowling Green Municipal Utilities (BGMU) values its role as a charitable company.

“We strive to improve the quality of life in our community, making it a great place to live and work,” said Miles McDaniel, manager of business development and marketing. “Each year our employees invest hundreds of hours volunteering time, skills, and financial resources in various organizations, civic groups, community events, and programs, both collectively and individually.

We feel this is just part of our responsibility to our neighbors and our community.”

Atmos Energy also strives to mirror this ideal. Despite its burgeoning growth, Atmos Energy works hard to maintain a personal touch of kindness toward its community.

“Corporate citizenship does not just imply giving money and support,” said Kay Coomes, manager of public affairs for Atmos. “Part of Atmos Energy’s culture is to encourage employees to donate their time and talents to schools, churches, hospitals, and local nonprofits in an effort to improve others’ lives and serve a higher purpose.”

True charity means putting others before oneself. This is reflected in the commitment to giving shown by the staff of Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation (WRECC).

“The employees of Warren RECC have supported United Way for 20 years,” said Rick Carroll, director of programs and communications for

16 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

utilities

WRECC. “In the 2010 campaign, WRECC’s goal was to raise $40,000, but we exceeded expectations by raising over $50,000. Out of the co-op’s 165 employees, 150 participated in the 2010 campaign through payroll deductions.”

The community spirit at Warren County Water District (WCWD) has a broad reach.

WCWD supports the United Way, American Cancer Society Relay for Life, American Heart Walk, Caring Hearts and Helpful Hands, Hospice of Southern Kentucky, Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central KY, Phoenix House, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, area schools, and local churches.

“Our employees genuinely care for others and continue to give of their time and talents,” said WCWD General Manager Alan Vilines.

For a full list of regional utilities, please visit

http://southcentralky.com/utilities

www.bgchamber.com | 17

business & industry 18 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Expanding Enterprise

B y J ennifer B ull

business & industry

The Bowling Green/South Central Kentucky community is experiencing a bevy of new and expanding industry growth.

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usiness is booming in Bowling Green, a region that not only attracts new industry, but also sees businesses expand on a regular basis. One such company, U.S. Bank, plans an expansion that will bring more than 50 new jobs to Bowling Green, bringing the total number of U.S. Bank employees up to 300.

“We’re very pleased to partner with our colleagues at U.S. Bank Home Mortgage to expand an already significant employee base in the Bowling Green area,” said Craig Browning, U.S. Bank regional president for South Central Kentucky. “This expanded U.S. Bank Service Center illustrates our growth and commitment to this area in the form of new jobs and a new future for this existing facility. Our region produces high-quality and caring employees that we are most proud to be associated with in serving our customers. We wish to extend a special thanks to city, county, and Bowling Green Area Chamber

of Commerce officials for their interest and contributions during our evaluation process.”

In addition to the help and support U.S. Bank receives from the Chamber of Commerce and the business community, the expansion in Bowling Green comes because of the skilled workforce of the area.

“We selected Bowling Green to grow our mortgage loan, servicing, and production call center because we were excited and impressed with the labor quality in this community, and we expect to draw top-rate job applicants from the community, including graduates of Western Kentucky University,” said Dan Prather, senior vice president of U.S. Bank Home Mortgage.

Owl’s Head Alloys is also expanding their operations in the Bowling Green region. Owl’s Head is a state-of-the-art secondary aluminum recycling facility and scrap metal converter with clients from across the United States. The planned expansion will take Owl’s Head from

Governor Steven Beshear (center) announced new jobs in South Central Kentucky in 2010.

48,000 square feet to 60,000 square feet and will create 30 new jobs.

“We are very excited for this announcement and for this opportunity to create new jobs in South Central Kentucky,” said David Bradford, president of Owl’s Head Alloys Inc. and Metalworks Recycle-Reload. “We appreciate the support of the Commonwealth and the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce during this project, and we look forward to a long, successful tenure in this community.”

The expansion of Country Oven Bakery brings with it an investment of more than $10.6 million in the Bowling Green region.

Owned by Kroger, Country Oven Bakery makes frozen dough products, breads, and cakes for Kroger. The new expansion will not only create 33 new jobs for the region, but the new jobs will pay around $50,000 a year with benefits.

“The Bowling Green/South Central Kentucky community is experiencing a bevy of new and expanding industry growth, and the expansion of Country Oven Bakery is yet another prime example of this activity,” said Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear. “The creation of 33 new jobs and more than $10.6 million investment is a significant economic boost for the region. We are proud to partner with The Kroger Co. to make this investment possible.”

Already employing 450 people, the expansion will add 50,000 square feet to the existing 177,000 square feet and will be used to accommodate a second cake line.

“On behalf of the 18,000 associates Kroger employs throughout Kentucky in 108 stores and three manufacturing plants, we thank the Bowling Green community and the Commonwealth for their support,” said Roger Bullion, general manager of Country Oven Bakery. “We are Kentucky Proud and excited to continue to grow in this great Commonwealth.” www.bgchamber.com | 19

business & industry

Expansions of other businesses in the region continue as well, with companies such as Topura America Fastener, Corvac Composites, The Sun Products Corporation, Fruit of the Loom, SCA’s North American Personal Care, and Magna Car Top systems all announcing expansion plans in 2010. The constant growth of existing companies in South Central Kentucky shows not only that the Bowling Green region is very businessfriendly, but also that the community itself is a great place to grow a business.

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, the South Central Kentucky Regional Economic Development Partnership, and the Warren County Industrial Training Consortium hosted an executive seminar titled “Managing Up” in March 2010. “Managing Up” refers to the process of consciously working to obtain the best possible results for the employee, the boss, and the company. Dr. Kerry Sauley of Louisiana State University led the seminar.

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business & industry

Starting Up in South Central Kentucky

B y J ennifer B ull

Starting Up in South Central Kentucky

Supplying the Automobile Industry with Aluminum Suspension

“We had what they really needed — certainly a great location and a great workforce.” © 2009 2010 Craig Williams Creative, Inc.

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nce they get a glimpse of all South Central Kentucky has to offer, new businesses and industries regularly opt to join the booming economic community of the Bowling Green region.

One such company, Blackhawk Composites, brings 30 new jobs and an investment of over $1.5 million to the community.

“The startup 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. Steve Beshear. “We’re proud to be the home of Blackhawk Composites and will continue to partner with them on future opportunities.”

Established in 2009, Blackhawk Composites is a startup manufacturer of advanced aerospace composite parts for Cessna Caravan aircraft cowls, which is the part of the aircraft that covers the engine. Due to the increasing numbers of

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Kobe Aluminum Automotive Products, LLC Bowling Green, Kentucky

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Tompkinsville

Cessna Caravans being utilized for executive and cargo transport, commercial uses such as skydiving, and a myriad of other functions, the demand for parts is increasing as well.

“Blackhawk has earned the trust of our customers though integrity, quality, and commitment!” said Mike Petkauskos, general manager of Blackhawk Composites. “We intend to grow our business with our unique niche in the commercial aircraft market. This growth will translate into new jobs being created for the greater Bowling Green area. We look forward to a successful future by building a team employing local talent.”

India-based Chandra Proteco LTD will start a manufacturing operation in Morgantown under the name Kentucky Copper Inc. This new business will create 106 new jobs for the region with nearly $32 million invested in Kentucky.

Chandra Group has been working with copper

Thomas N. Kerrick Greg N. Stivers D. Michael Coyle Stephen W. Van Zant H. Brent Brennenstuhl Laura M. Hagan Shawn Rosso Alcott Jason B. Bell Matthew C. Hess Scott D. Laufenberg Russell S. Sizemore Andrea P. Anderson Jeffrey S. Stein Alicia N. Ray of Counsel S. Frank Smith, Jr. James D. Harris, Jr. Karl N. Crandall Jeffrey R. Ogrody 1025 State Street Bowling Green, KY 42101 (270) 782-8160 2819 Ring Road Elizabethtown, KY 42701 (270) 737-9088

www.kscvlaw.com HABLAMOS ESPAÑOL

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business & industry and copper cables for more than 40 years, with a specialization in transposed cable and railway cables for traction. This international company has more than 500 employees in India, with additional facilities located in India, Europe, Africa, and China.

“We are delighted to bring the extensive experience of our parent company, Chandra Copper, to Kentucky, along with a commitment to be an active part of the community and the Commonwealth of Kentucky,” said Mukul Gupta, president of Kentucky Copper.

Kentucky Copper will be the first U.S.-based company for Chandra Copper. Located on Veterans Way in Morgantown, the 163,000-square-foot facility will include warehousing, manufacturing, and office space, as well as a technology center.

“I believe that they were just looking at the central location of Kentucky with respect to U.S. infrastructure, and so they were looking at a variety of locations,” said Miller Slaughter, director of regional development for the Chamber of Commerce. “We had what they really needed — certainly a great location and a great workforce.

They originally were looking in the Bowling Green area, but what they really needed was an existing facility. We were able to locate an empty building in Morgantown that would meet their requirements.”

Another new company that has chosen the Bowling Green region is Metalworks RecycleReload. Leasing a 30,000-square-foot facility next to Owl’s Head Alloys in the South Central Kentucky Industrial Park, Metalworks RecycleReload processes, packages, ships, receives, and purchases all types of non-ferrous metals.

“We are very excited for this opportunity to create new jobs in South Central Kentucky,” said

David Bradford, president of Owl’s Head Alloys Inc. and Metalworks Recycle-Reload. “We appreciate the support of the Commonwealth and the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce during this project, and we look forward to a long, successful tenure in this community.”

Yet another addition to the economy of the Bowling Green region came with Kentucky Chrome Works, an automotive supplier that will manufacture decorative chrome plating and provide metal finishing services for automobiles and appliances.

“Kentucky Chrome Works will be an excellent addition to the Hart County community, as well as the state’s overall corporate landscape,” said Gov. Beshear. “The creation of 80 new, fulltime jobs will provide a tremendous economic boost and ensure dozens of families have quality employment opportunities with a first-rate company.”

Located in Hart County, the company will lease a 50,000-square-foot facility located on five acres in Horse Cave.

“I traveled to Hart County because I heard that there was a closed facility that at one time did some chrome plating,” said Raymond A. Carcione, owner and president of Kentucky Chrome Works. “The plant was old and in much need of repair. I had some interest, but had my doubts about rebuilding the facility. However, I talked to the local county government and was met with a ‘can do’ attitude. We met with representatives from the state economic development cabinet and received the same response, which caused us to decide to move forward with the project. It has been the right thing to do. The outpouring of support from the state, county, and local community has been fantastic.”

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business & industry Shiloh Industries Selects Kentucky Transpark The new plant will create 60 new jobs within three years of operation and will entail a more than $9.9 million investment.

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hiloh Industries, Inc., will locate a new manufacturing plant at the Kentucky Transpark, a state-of-the-art business park in Bowling Green.

Gov. Steven L. Beshear joined community leaders and company officials to make this announcement in November 2010. The new plant will create 60 new jobs within three years of operation and will entail a more than $9.9 million investment in the Commonwealth.

“Kentucky’s strong automotive and manufacturing history matches up perfectly with Shiloh Industries’ products and customers,” said Gov. Beshear.

“The company’s new manufacturing operation is projected to provide 60 new jobs and a nearly $10 million investment in the South Central Kentucky region.

We’re excited to partner with Shiloh Industries and the Bowling Green community to make this project possible.”

Selecting the newest speculative building at the Kentucky Transpark, Shiloh will expand the structure to 81,100-square-foot facility on Jody Richards Drive.

The new operation will provide blanking and stamping services for a variety of customers, including the automotive industry and other industrial customers.

Construction began in November and will be completed by mid-April 2011.

“We are excited about constructing and opening a new facility in Bowling Green and expanding our company’s footprint in the region,” said Tony Parente, vice president, manufacturing operations, Shiloh Industries, Inc. Part of the company’s decision to locate at the Kentucky Transpark was impacted by the Commonwealth’s aggressive incentive program. The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority preliminarily approved Medina Blanking, a subsidiary of Shiloh Industries, Inc., for up to $1.9 million in tax incentives through the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based incentive can be earned over a 10-year period through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments.

The speculative building in which Shiloh will locate is the newest construction at the Kentucky Transpark. “We built the speculative building at the Kentucky Transpark with the expectation that it would be an attractive location for a business. We’re thrilled that Shiloh has decided to occupy the building just five months after we celebrated the completion of its construction,” said Todd Davis, chairman of the Bowling Green Area Economic Development Authority, which partnered with the Intermodal Transportation Authority on the building project.

Rick Wilson, chairman of the Intermodal Transportation Authority, said, “The Kentucky Transpark is the premium business park in South Central Kentucky, and Shiloh’s decision to locate here asserts once again that the park is an ideal location for success. We’re proud to see that our decision to construct a speculative building at the Transpark has helped us to recruit a new business to the park, and we welcome them to South Central Kentucky.”

Governor Steven Beshear (center) welcomed Shiloh Industries, Inc. to the Kentucky Transpark.

24 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

While the Chamber’s marketing is focused on promoting the strength of South Central Kentucky as a whole, the Menu of Services program allows each participating county to customize the individual services they need.

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ne of the things that has made South Central Kentucky so successful is the outreach and support the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce provides not only to Bowling Green, but also to the surrounding counties. Miller Slaughter, director of regional economic development, explained that this support is comprised of two parts: marketing and the Menu of Services program.

“The marketing aspect all nine counties participate in, because when we promote South Central Kentucky as a whole, we have more resources, more contacts, and more capabilities to present to prospects,” Slaughter said. “We’re out there building websites, making direct industry calls, working with site selectors, advertising in critical trade

South Central Kentucky’s economic development

partners continue to market the region to site selectors and industries across the world.

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Support Structure

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publications, making international trips — all the things you do to try to attract industry. When we attract industry, we are trying to attract them to the region, not just to Bowling Green.”

While the Chamber’s marketing is focused on promoting the strength of South Central Kentucky as a whole, the Menu of Services program allows each participating county to customize the individual services they need.

“It’s like going into a cafeteria — you get to pick what kind of help, what kind of support that you need and how much you can afford,” Slaughter explained. “Each county looks at the types of services they need and signs up for their own unique blend of services; then I provide that support.

“What I really like is helping the smaller, more rural counties,” Slaughter continued. “They have assets — but we need to help them bring those assets into play. Without the resources of the Chamber and the Menu of Services program, they might just keep falling further and further behind.

This is a program where each one of them is able to tap into needed development resources without having to hire somebody on their own.”

This cooperative effort between the counties and the Chamber of Commerce continues to successfully bring industry to the region. Menu of Services is so successful that it was voted the worldwide No. 1 example of cross-border and regional collaboration by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).

Governor Steven Beshear (center) visited the South Central Kentucky region many times in 2010 to congratulate new and expanding industries.

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www.southcentralky.com The site has been improved to make it easier and more informative for visitors.

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reated in 2005, the Chamber website www.southcentralky.com has recently been upgraded with an eye not only for the look of the site, but also toward its functionality. The site has been improved to make it easier and more informative for visitors, utilizing new technology and providing users with the most up-to-date data and demographics with a click of a mouse. Site selectors can now download pages, build their own documents, and use

26 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

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enhanced maps with detailed content, making it the perfect place for them to find all of the information they need about the region.

“Our website is the first impression that site selectors have of South Central Kentucky, and it’s necessary to provide them with the most up-to-date data and demographics,” said Jessica Thompson, communications director for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. “The new site is easy to use, and all information is accessible within one to

two clicks — a real asset when you’re searching for information about a site or building or just want to know more about the business climate in South Central Kentucky.”

By providing detailed information in a real-time environment, the site gives South Central Kentucky a definite leg up in attracting the attention of new business and industry.

Getting Help to Get Started South Central Kentucky has many programs to help those wishing to start a small business.

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mall businesses and entrepreneurs are truly the lifeblood of economic growth.

Statistically, somewhere in the range of 85 percent of all jobs are created in small business and startup operations,” said Miller Slaughter, director of regional economic development for the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce.

Creating a welcoming environment for entrepreneurs, South Central Kentucky has many programs to help those wishing to start a small business.

“For example, the mission of the Kentucky Entrepreneurial Coaches Institute [KECI] is to create, within rural Kentucky, entrepreneurialrich communities,” Slaughter said. “KECI is training grassroots people who have an interest in

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business & industry We are trying to create a culture and support system for entrepreneurship, not just in South Central Kentucky, but in Kentucky at large.

entrepreneurship to be coaches for new business owners.”

Another startup support program, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), is housed on the Western Kentucky University campus.

“The SBDC provides free advice and consultation for small businesses and entrepreneurs,” Slaughter explained. “They help entrepreneurs write business plans, they help them with financial projections and cash flows, they offer research information — it’s a fantastic resource.”

Sometimes the best advice comes from someone who’s walked the same road before. SCORE is a nationwide nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, grow, and succeed. Both working and retired

executives and business owners donate time and expertise as business counselors.

“SCORE representatives make themselves available for face-to-face consultations. SCORE will match small business entrepreneurs seeking expertise with somebody who has experience in their particular industry,” Slaughter noted.

Additional regional resources include the small business incubator at the Innovation and Commercialization Center and WKU’s entrepreneurism department.

“We are trying to create a culture and support system for entrepreneurship, not just in South Central Kentucky, but in Kentucky at large,” Slaughter concluded.

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business & industry

In addition to the great location and the built-in technology infrastructure, the Transpark is also quite beautiful.

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The Kentucky Transpark

nnually bringing an estimated $129 billion to the community, the Kentucky Transpark is a mixeduse business park with state-ofthe-art amenities. The Transpark is located on U.S. 31-W and Highway 68/80, giving excellent access to major highways; has access to rail transportation; and is 2.3 miles from Warren County Regional Airport. Training facilities are located on-site to help businesses and their staff maximize their potential.

In addition to boasting great location and a built-in technology and knowledge infrastructure, the Transpark is also quite beautiful. The campus is “green� in more ways than one, built both to attract and promote business and to protect the natural environment. The Transpark has been greatly successful in both areas, receiving state and national recognition for its regional

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business & industry economic development efforts as well as excellent environmental protection.

“When you hear the phrase ‘business park,’ there’s usually far more emphasis on ‘business’ than ‘park.’ Not so at the Kentucky Transpark; it is actually a welcoming community, with hiking and bicycling trails and an on-campus training center. It’s a pleasant environment geared in every way to increasing productivity and the success of member businesses,” said Dan Preston, Bowling Green Chamber vice president, economic development.

Adding to the close proximity of Bowling Green Technical College, Kentucky Community and Technical College System, and Western Kentucky University, the Transpark offers onsite educational and research centers that provide training. A 31,000-square-foot training facility, created in 2006 by Bowling Green

Technical College, is now open. In addition, a 44,420-square-foot regional high school technical center, known as the Warren County Schools Area Technology Center, already has student training programs under way.

The Transpark continues to bring business and industry to South Central Kentucky, solidifying its role as a major economic driver that regularly brings even more jobs and opportunities to the community.

The Transpark continues to bring business and industry to South Central Kentucky.

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Chinese Guests Introduced to South Central Kentucky The visit created an opportunity to promote the region and gain word-of-mouth advertising with the visitors’ peers in China.

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n spring 2010, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the Bowling Green Area Convention and Visitors Bureau hosted a group of Chinese delegates for a tour of Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky. Ten Chinese travel agents visited Bowling Green and the surrounding region for three days to experience the many assets offered by South Central Kentucky. While here, they visited Chaney’s Dairy Barn, the Corvette Plant, Lost River Cave, Mammoth Cave, and the National Corvette Museum. The visit created an opportunity to promote the region and gain word-of-mouth advertising with the visitors’ peers in China.

Vicki Fitch, executive director of the Bowling Green Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, was pleased with the event. “We are optimistic that their visit will ultimately result in their Chinese clients booking travel to Bowling Green. They were not only captivated with the unique tastes and true beauty of our state, they had fun with new experiences like seeing a cow being milked during the Chaney’s Dairy Barn farm tour and learning all about the Corvette.”

Joe Natcher, Chamber Board of Directors chairman, said, “The Chamber was pleased to host the Chinese delegation during their visit to Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky.

We are heightening our top-of-mind awareness in China by participating in such events, because we are demonstrating all that our region has to offer. This is beneficial to both economic development and tourism, and we are grateful to the Convention and Visitors Bureau for their support.”

Fitch added, “Partnering with the Chamber on this project proved to be an excellent way to showcase our area to these international guests, with potential benefits to both of our organizations.”

Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon also attended the tour, representing both the county and the city during the absence of Mayor Elaine Walker, who was visiting China with the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

30 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

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Women Leading the Way

business & industry

“Reach out to others in the community. Be a light to someone who is struggling.”

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omen business leaders in Bowling Green tend to share a common characteristic: community service.

These women aren’t just 9-to-5 professionals; they’re also leading the way in giving back to the community they love.

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has been proud to recognize these women with some of their most prestigious honors and continues to celebrate their contributions and dedication to community service.

Laura Petrino was selected as the Bart Hagerman Award winner during the Leadership Bowling Green Class of 2009.

During her course with Leadership Bowling Green, Petrino’s class did a fundraising project for Barren River Area Safe Space (BRASS), a local refuge for domestic violence victims. Petrino

is also active with the LBG Alumni Association Board, LBG Advisory Council, Professional Marketing Association, a women’s weekly Bible Study group, Volunteers in Action, and Crossland Community Church.

“One of my favorite parts about being a nonprofit professional and being connected to the community is that I often know needs as well as resources,” Petrino noted. “I want to always stay in tune with my community so that I can continue to make referrals and suggestions to others.”

Kelly Wiseman, the 2010 ATHENA Young Professional Winner, is very active in the Bowling Green Community. Currently, Wiseman works on the board of the Family Enrichment Center and with Junior Achievement. She spends the autumn months as an instructor for Junior Achievement at the Warren Juvenile Detention Center.

“It actually started several years ago, when Junior Achievement asked for volunteers to teach there,” Wiseman said of her service at the detention center.

“I have really enjoyed it. To teach the kids to stay in school and get an education means that you can help them change the path that they are on. I fell in love with doing that.”

Wiseman has worked with the Chamber of Commerce, serving on committees and as an ambassador. She has also served as chair of the Southern Kentucky Fair.

“It’s not just about feeling good; I feel it’s everyone’s duty to give back to help those organizations that have such good missions. Without volunteers helping, they could not fulfill their missions in our community.”

Vice President of Chamber Operations Tonya Matthews was ranked as one of the “Top 40 Under 40” by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) in the fall 2009 Chamber Executive Magazine.

As the primary work of a chamber of commerce is to benefit and improve its community, Matthews’ professional life encompasses community service.

She is quick to credit her associates and the dedicated volunteers of the Chamber for inspiring her by example.

“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,” Matthews said. “I appreciate all the volunteers who give their time to help with Chamber initiatives that couldn’t be accomplished without their contributions. I appreciate the fact that I continue to be inspired and learn from the superior team members that I’m blessed to work with every day.”

Matthews encourages others to experience the rewards of community service.

“There are so many opportunities in Bowling Green for volunteerism and community service,” Matthews said. “Reach out to others in the community. Be a light to someone who is struggling.

“So many nonprofits in our community are faced with the same need for good volunteers in order to meet their goals. Saying yes is the easy part. Following through is what makes the difference to the many people who these community programs touch.”

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education 32 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Accolades, honors, and scholarship continue to roll in.

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Progressive Public Schools

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owling Green and Warren County offer outstanding public education opportunities for Pre-K–12 students, including awardwinning academics and facilities.

With an enrollment of approximately 3,800 students, Bowling Green Independent Schools (www.bgreen.kyschools.us) offers five elementary schools, one junior high, one high school, and an alternative school. The district is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement, and 19 teachers are National Board Certified.

Accolades, honors, and scholarships continue to roll in for Bowling Green High School. The classes of 2009 and 2010 graduated 485 students, including 103 honor graduates, and received a combined total of over $16.3 million in scholarships. For three consecutive years, the school has been ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s top 5 percent of public high schools nationwide, while 2010 marked its fourth consecutive year on Newsweek’s list of America’s top 1,500 high schools.

The district has completed over $50 million in new construction and renovations since 2000. The new, $12 million, 55,000-square-foot T.C. Cherry Elementary building opened for the 2009–10 school year.

According to designer RossTarrant Architects, “The new school features two classroom wings, one for primary students and one for intermediate students, each specifically designed for the ages it serves. Each wing also features a common space for individual or small group instruction.” The building also features many “green” details. Natural daylight is provided through solar tubes, and the building’s hot water is heated via solar energy.

Exterior walls constructed of insulated concrete forms save energy through superior insulation.

The latest improvement projects include an upgrade to the media center at W. R. McNeill Elementary School and cable system upgrades for both

For three consecutive years, Bowling Green High School has been ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s top 5 percent of schools nationwide.

the McNeill School and the high school. In 2010, BGIS also established an energy team, with goals of promoting efficient energy consumption, encouraging conservation, and achieving Energy Star designations from the EPA. Warren County Schools (www.warren.k12.ky.us) continues its amazing pattern of growth with the opening of Bristow Elementary, Richardsville Elementary, South Warren Middle, and South Warren High at the beginning of the 2010–2011 school year. The new middle school and high school are housed together in what is currently Kentucky’s largest school building.

Based on the district’s energy plan and the efficient design elements of its latest facilities, which have saved more than $5 million in energy costs over the last five years, Warren County Schools was awarded the Andromeda Award by the Alliance to Save Energy. Key to winning the award was the design of the new Richardsville building, which utilizes solar panels to produce more clean energy than it uses. It will actually serve as an educational tool for teaching students about energy conservation.

“This is an exciting time in our district, as we continue to grow in student numbers, excellence, and energy efficiency,” said WCS Superintendent Tim Murley. “But one of the most exciting things is how we are able to pass on what we’ve learned about energy savings to our next generation through such innovative means as a hands-on-learning school building.”

The district now operates 13 elementary schools, four middle schools, and four high schools overall, with yet another new 750-student elementary school to come in the near future.

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34 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Private Schools Private schools provide additional child development opportunities.

By Jay Nehrkorn

education

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arren County is home to a number of private schools that provide additional child development opportunities and a variety of Christian education options.

Chartered in 2008, the Montessori School of Bowling Green incorporates the philosophies of Dr. Maria Montessori as it strives to meet the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development needs of students. The school serves students ages 2 through 6, maximizing each child’s unique learning capabilities through a specifically prepared environment.

Private education alternatives for preschool through junior high students include schools representing a variety of religious faiths. Among the choices available are the non-denominational Bowling Green Christian Academy

and the Church of Christ-affiliated Foundation Christian Academy, which provide Pre-K through eighth grade classes incorporating faith-based curricula.

Holy Trinity Lutheran School offers yet another option for students age 3 through sixth grade, while Catholic parishes throughout the region are served by the St. Joseph Interparochial School.

Other Regional School Districts Allen County Schools 270-618-3181 • www.allen.kyschools.us

Barren County Schools 270-651-3787 • www.barren.k12.us

Butler County Schools 270-526-5624 • www.butlerschools.net

Edmonson County Schools 270-597-2101 • www.edmonson.k12.ky.us

Hart County Schools 270-524-2631 • www.hart.k12.ky.us

Logan County Schools 270-726-2436 • www.logan.k12.ky.us

Metcalfe County Schools 270-432-3171 • www.metcalfe.k12.ky.us

Simpson County Schools 270-586-8877 • www.simpson.k12.ky.us

www.bgchamber.com | 35

Getting Down to Business in Area Schools

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Chamber initiatives are giving schools effective tools for teaching students the value of experience, hard work, and leadership.

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he Workforce Development member of the business community continues their senior high years. Students who pursue Committee of the Bowling Green to benefit educators and students long after the this endorsement must meet GPA standards Area Chamber of Commerce works partnership year is complete. and exhibit exceptional attendance, good conclosely with Warren duct, and participation in activities County and Bowling Green schools or work outside class. Students must to provide programs that create strong also complete the seven-session Junior educational partnerships within the Achievement Success Skills seminar. community and instill positive charSuccessful candidates receive the Work acteristics in the region’s future workEthic Seal on their diploma, may note force. Known as Business-Education the award on college or work applicaPartnerships, Work Ethic Seal, and the tions, and are eligible to apply for a Leader in Me®, these Chamber initiaspecial scholarship. tives are giving schools effective tools A new initiative that the Chamber for teaching students the value of expeand schools are exploring together is The Business-Education Partnerships program rience, hard work, and leadership. the Leader in Me® program. Rather The Business-Education than being an additional class for edubrings each participating school together with an area cators to teach, this character-building Partnerships program brings each participating school together with an program integrates the principles of Dr. business to develop a mutually beneficial relationship. Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly area business to develop a mutually beneficial relationship. The school and Effective People directly into the school’s business support each other and work together Designed to help students develop the atten- existing core curriculum. As a result, students throughout the school year, sharing resources, dance and work habits necessary for success gain self-confidence as they develop a mindset organizing events, and providing students with the when they transition from school to the work- conducive to problem solving, teamwork, effecopportunity to learn from a real-world enterprise. force, the Work Ethic Seal program gives tive communication, and balance.

The relationship between the school and each students an additional goal to strive for during

36 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

The Confucius Institute serves to promote understanding of the language and values of the Chinese people.

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The Confucius Institute

education Western Kentucky University B y J ay N ehrkorn

www.wku.edu

More than a century old, Western Kentucky University (WKU) has been the launching point for the careers of an Academy Award winner, a space shuttle astronaut, a U.S. secretary of state, the current chief justice of the Kentucky Supreme Court, and many other notable individuals among its more than 87,000 alumni.

For 12 consecutive years, WKU has been Kentucky’s fastest-growing university, and in 2009 reached a milestone when enrollment surpassed 20,000.

WKU offers students a hands-on education with opportunities to engage in applied

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s part of its vision to become “A Leading American University with International Reach,” WKU is now home to Kentucky’s first Confucius Institute and also the Chinese Language Flagship program — two distinct programs with the shared mission of educating the community about the Chinese language and culture.

The Chinese Flagship Program offers WKU students the opportunity to integrate language instruction and overseas experiences into their course of study, bringing them to a high level of proficiency in Mandarin Chinese by the time they graduate. The Confucius Institute serves as an outreach to K–12 students and educators, as well as government officials and members of the business community, to promote understanding of the language and values of the Chinese people.

In support of the Confucius Institute, WKU is undergoing a renovation to Helm Library that will allocate roughly 5,000 square feet of space for Chinese learning resources, including a wealth of books, videos, and interactive displays. The renovation is made possible by a partnership with the Chinese government language council, Hanban,

research and community service at home which is making a major contribution in materials and technology.

“It will be the public face of the Confucius Institute and the university’s recognition of the importance of China and the Chinese language,” said WKU Director of Scholar Development Amy Eckhardt, in reference to the library renovation.

“We see it as the way that the majority of people will interface with the program and have their first introduction. As we take Chinese into the schools, we hope that they will use this as an opportunity for field trips, and that when people come to Bowling Green, they will see this as a destination, because it will really be the only complete exhibit in the United States.”

The Confucius Institute will bring 11 teachers from China to the region for the 2010–2011 school year, with each being hosted by an area family. Eckhardt anticipates that the program will impact approximately 3,000 students and says that the enthusiasm of the community has been the key to its implementation.

“I think that Hanban has been pleasantly surprised by the level and breadth of community support, and that’s certainly one of the reasons that we have the Confucius Institute here at WKU.”

and abroad. Students can pursue nearly 90 undergraduate majors as well as a number of associate degrees and certificates. WKU also offers more than 50 graduate degree programs as well as a Doctorate in Education Leadership and consistently ranks among the top 15 on U.S. News & World Report’s annual list of public master’s schools in the South.

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education The Carroll Knicely Conference Center: Expanding Possibilities B y J ay N ehrkorn

The Carroll Knicely Conference Center (CKCC) at Western Kentucky University is an all-occasion meeting facility that serves as an important resource for South Central Kentucky. The center’s large conference rooms, auditorium, computer lab, wireless connectivity, and video conferencing capability provide an attractive venue for corporate events and trade shows, while the beauty of the tropical garden lobby and CKCC’s professional catering services have long made it a popular choice for weddings, receptions, and other social events.

In 2010, the center expanded its ability serve the region with a 27,000-square-foot addition that created a 700-seat ballroom, easily divisible into a variety of configurations and including a state-of-the-art projection and sound system. Guests may access this part of the facility via the center’s Campbell Lane entrance, which brings them to a beautiful lobby featuring 20-foot-high, full-glass exterior walls and an interior paneled with exquisite wood from the movingui fig tree.

38 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

education

Last year alone, BGTC served more than 660 companies in South Central Kentucky.

Daymar College: The Daymar College location in Bowling Green offers 15 career-building associate degree and certificate programs, as well as four different bachelor’s degree options. www.daymarcollege.edu

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Economic Development at BGTC

www.bowlinggreen.kctcs.edu

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owling Green Technical College (BGTC) has been an educational resource for the community and an asset to local business and industry for more than 70 years. BGTC prepares students for success in the workplace by maintaining close relationships with business and industry to keep training on the cutting edge.

Continuing a distinguished career in educational administration that has included schools in both Alabama and North Carolina, Dr. Nathan Hodges came to BGTC in 2005 as president and CEO. Here,

he shares some thoughts on BGTC’s leading role in economic development for the region.

“Everything we do at the college is about economic development as it relates to improving the economic and social well-being of the citizens in our service area. An integral part of our mission is to provide training that fosters regional economic growth and prosperity of the Commonwealth and our community.

“Bowling Green Technical College is a state leader in providing workforce training. Last year alone, BGTC served more than 660 companies in South Central Kentucky and provided customized workforce education and training to over 4,850 workforce students.

“As I speak with business and industry leaders throughout this area I hear them say, ‘Your college is one of the reasons we located here.’ As part of the Bowling Green Area Chamber’s industry recruitment team, I have been able to take an active role in enhancing recruitment of business and industry to our area by highlighting the education, training, and services our college provides.

“The addition of two new campuses in industrial parks at the Transpark and in Franklin has increased our ability to deliver services across the area.

BGTC now has six campuses in Bowling Green, Glasgow, and Franklin, allowing us to develop new and expanded programs as well as the infrastructure to effectively respond to the training needs of businesses throughout our community.”

www.bgchamber.com | 39

real estate 40 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Residential Real Estate The regional market has remained a welcoming one for families.

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real estate

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espite sharp declines in home values in many regions across the United States, the residential real estate market in South Central Kentucky has kept a steady course. According to Meg Manning, executive director of the REALTOR® Association of Southern Kentucky, the average home price has remained steady in Bowling Green, and the regional market has remained a welcoming one for families.

“In 2010, 63 percent of home sales in the region have been between $75,000 and $175,000, which makes Bowling Green and the outlying Warren County region a very affordable place to live,” Manning noted.

Manning also says that 2010 has provided several promising signs that the region’s residential real estate market is gaining ground and will remain healthy. Through the second quarter, the average days on the market for the region’s homes declined from 156 days in 2009 to 134 in 2010. During the same time period, there were 128 more home sales in 2010 than in 2009. Additionally, the average price of a home dropped only $978 from 2009 levels.

While the housing recovery nationally showed signs of slowing down at the end of 2009, the 2010 residential market in South Central Kentucky continued to show marked improvement. Clearly, the region’s appeal to families and new residents remains strong. www.bgchamber.com | 41

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Commercial Real Estate As the recovery progresses, the market is ready.

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he commercial real estate market in South Central Kentucky has stayed strong, thanks in large part to a diverse regional economy. While more volatile markets saw commercial real estate values drop by as much as 40 percent in the past year, the Bowling Green market saw only minimal decreases in pricing, and vacancy rates remained low. The region’s automotive industry ramped up production, and manufacturing and warehousing remained firm.

Bowling Green has also seen new retail construction, with three new strip centers, two new standalone stores, and two new stand-alone restaurants.

As the recovery progresses in 2010–2011, the market is ready. The office sector has seen significant construction recently, and the industrial market has over 1 million square feet of available

42 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

space. A 78,000-square-foot spec building is newly constructed at the Kentucky Transpark. Alex Nottmeier, CCIM, SIOR, a broker with Neal Turner Realty, is optimistic about the region’s prospects in the coming year. “Fortunately, we have a strong regional Chamber of Commerce and are optimistic that all is being done to recruit new industry to South Central Kentucky,” he said.

“The commercial and industrial real estate market for the Bowling Green region has weathered the storm well during the recent economic downturn and remained strong in 2010,” Nottmeier continued. “Although we have seen a slight reduction in rental rates, we have not seen drastic reductions in sales prices for commercial and industrial real estate. In addition, vacancy rates in retail and industrial real estate remain low.”

healthcare www.bgchamber.com | 43

healthcare The Medical Center The Medical Center offers the healthcare services needed for the growing and diverse population of South Central Kentucky.

270-745-1000 :: www.TheMedicalCenter.org

I

n 2010, The Medical Center completed a The Medical Center is dedicated to providing the $30 million expansion project that added highest quality services. To that end, The Medical a two-story addition to the Emergency Center has earned various accreditations by agenDepartment and Ambulatory Surgery wing cies that survey and measure its performance against of the hospital. The addition provides approxi- national standards. The Medical Center is accredited mately 48,000 square feet of new space designated by The Joint Commission and is designated a Primary entirely for patient care, enabling The Medical Stroke Center through the same organization. The Center to accommodate 48 new private rooms. Medical Center is an accredited Chest Pain Center With these additional rooms, The Medical Center with PCI by the Society of Chest Pain Centers and has the capacity to operate all 337 beds for which is recognized by the American College of Surgeons it is licensed. One floor is Commission on Cancer for designated for cardiothoits cancer program.

The Medical Center racic and vascular services, The Medical Center has offers the healthcare serwhile the other floor is earned various accreditations vices needed for the growdedicated to orthopaedics ing and diverse population and neuroscience. by agencies that survey and of South Central Kentucky.

In December 2010, Vital services include heart construction was completed measure its performance against care services such as openon The Hospitality House national standards. heart surgery, obstetrics and on The Medical Center neonatology services, cancampus. The 12-privateguestroom, private-bath facility serves the family cer treatment services, stroke care, and orthopaedic members and caregivers of seriously ill patients services. The Medical Center is also dedicated receiving treatment at The Medical Center and to wellness and prevention. The Medical Center Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital. The Health & Wellness Center in Greenwood Mall Hospitality House features a large kitchen and din- acts as a health resource center, providing educaing room to accommodate multiple families, a quiet tional classes, health screenings, exercise classes, the room for prayer and meditation, a community room Community Diabetes Program, Medical Nutrition with comfortable furnishings, and a business center Therapy, and more.

Learn more about The Medical Center’s services with computers and Internet access. Learn more at at www.TheMedicalCenter.org. www.hospitalityhousebg.org.

44 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

healthcare A $30 million expansion at The Medical Center adds two floors and 48 private patient rooms.

www.bgchamber.com | 45

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Greenview Regional Hospital Greenview ranked among the top tier of all hospitals nationwide.

270-793-1000 :: www.greenviewhospital.org

G Our nursing

reenview Regional Hospital, part of South Central Kentucky for almost 40 years, remains dedicated to improving the quality of life for those we serve.

A 211-bed acute care facility with over 180 physicians trained in a variety of specialties, Greenview is continually growing through qualified staff, physician recruitment, and cutting-edge technology.

Greenview Regional Hospital was recognized with a 2009–2010 Hospital Value Index “Best In Value Award.” Greenview ranked among the top tier of all hospitals nationwide, achieving high marks in four categories. Specifically, the Hospital Value Index recognized Greenview for “quality, affordability, efficiency, and satisfaction.”

Greenview Regional Hospital has been named as a 2010 PRC Top Performer for Hospitalist Services for Medical Staff Perception. The 2010 PRC Excellence in Healthcare awards are sponsored by Professional

center provides a full range of medical services to treat the residents who live with us and the patients who come to us for short-term, episodic medical or rehabilitative care.

We invite you to visit and see for yourself the face of quality care.

46 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

recently obtained the HANA™ Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Table, the only surgical table designed exclusively for the anterior approach to hip and knee arthroplasty, which minimizes the pain and time from surgery to recovery.

At Greenview, triage and medical assessment processes are in place to afford shorter wait times in the Emergency Department. A new program even publishes wait times at its emergency department; patients may access the information online at TriStarHealth. com or via cell phone by texting “ER” to 23000.

Greenview’s Chest Pain Center is Kentucky’s first accredited chest pain center, with board-certified emergency physicians and trauma-certified nurses.

The center’s protocol-driven and systematic approach allows physicians to reduce time to treatment during the critical early stages of a heart attack, when treatments are most effective, and to better monitor patients when it is not clear whether they are having a coronary event. Such observation helps ensure a patient is neither sent home too early nor needlessly admitted.

Greenview Regional Hospital’s cancer program, part of the Sarah Cannon Cancer Center, has received accreditation with commendation from the Commission on Cancer, through the American College of Surgeons.

Patient safety comes first.

Greenview’s eMAR (electronic Medication Administration Record) is a bar coding system that stores healthcare data — the name of the patient, the type of medication, as well as the correct dosage — virtually eliminating medication errors.

At Greenview Regional Hospital, we maintain a culture of excellence. “Caring, Compassion, Commitment” are more than just words to the staff and physicians at Greenview. We are a family of healthcare workers committed to the care and improvement of human life. We place our patients’ needs first. These are a few of the many unique, specialized services conveniently found in Bowling Green.

Greenview Regional Hospital was recognized with a 2009–2010 Hospital Value Index ‘Best In Value Award.’

Research Consultants, Inc. PRC is a nationally-known healthcare marketing research company headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.

Greenview’s Hospitalist program was presented PRC’s highest honor, the crystal “Overall Top Performer Award.” The award is given annually to each healthcare facility that scores at or above the 100th percentile for the Overall Quality of Care percent “Excellent” score in PRC’s national client database for the prior calendar year.

Over the past several years, Greenview has been nationally recognized for its outstanding regional orthopaedics program. Greenview Regional Hospital

healthcare

Greenview Regional Hospital recently obtained the HANA™ Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Table, the only surgical table designed exclusively for the anterior approach to hip and knee arthroplasty, which minimizes the pain and time from surgery to recovery.

www.bgchamber.com | 47

Graves-Gilbert Clinic Whatever your healthcare needs throughout the stages of your life, Graves-Gilbert is there to serve you.

270-781-5111 :: www.ggclinic.com

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raves-Gilbert Clinic has been the heart of healthcare for almost 75 years, with strong, deep ties to the communities it serves. An independent physician-owned clinic with more than 70

48 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

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physicians providing care in 21 medical specialties, Graves-Gilbert’s focus is to bring quality care and new technology to the area’s deserving patients.

Dedicated to making Graves-Gilbert a Regional Center of Excellence for patient care, a campaign

called Great Physicians for our Great Communities has been initiated. Graves-Gilbert’s passion to become the preferred and preeminent provider of patient services has already started to benefit our patients.

This year has seen a significant recruitment of new physicians, two of whom are Kentucky natives returning home.

As Graves-Gilbert grows, investments in equipment and renovations to its more than 120,000-square-foot facilities have taken place.

This growth not only brings new services to patients, it brings jobs to the community. GravesGilbert is one of the largest employers in the area.

Graves-Gilbert is the driving force for most new healthcare technology. Recent results have been an integrated electronic medical record designed to improve patient care. This was accomplished years ahead of government mandates.

Whatever your healthcare needs throughout the stages of your life, Graves-Gilbert is there to serve you. Pediatric medicine, internal medicine, family medicine, ob/gyn, and orthopaedic or sports medicine have all added new physicians to meet your everyday needs. If you should need specialty care, a range of specialists is conveniently located together to take care of you.

Graves-Gilbert Clinic: Great Physicians for our Great Communities!

Specialized Healthcare

By Jennifer Bull

healthcare

It isn’t necessary to travel far for specialized healthcare needs.

O

ne of the reasons many choose to relocate or retire in Bowling Green is the excellent and varied medical options available. It isn’t necessary to travel far for specialized healthcare needs, as the area boasts fantastic hospitals, clinics, private care physicians, alternative care, and specialists to see to every health concern that may arise.

Rivendell Behavioral Health Services is an inpatient center providing psychiatric care for children and teens, substance abuse treatment, and care for mental health disorders.

Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital is dedicated to the care of critically ill patients with complex conditions requiring lengthy hospital stays for full recovery.

Treatments include aggressive antibiotic therapy, post-surgical care, wound care, and respiratory therapy.

Serving those with financial needs, Fairview Community Health Center provides comprehensive care that includes routine checkups and medical visits, maternity and newborn care, lab work, and dental services.

Patients recovering from injuries and illness can turn to Southern Kentucky Rehabilitation Hospital, which provides treatment for neurological problems, orthopedic care, wound care, pain management, and more. The hospital specializes in stroke recovery through physical therapy and a team approach to patient care.

www.bgchamber.com | 49

healthcare B y J ay N ehrkorn

Retire in Bowling Green

city draws retirees that are seeking to reinvent their lifestyles through:

Bowling Green has become a premier location for a new group of active retirees.

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n his article “Working Beyond Retirement” for Quintessential Careers, Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D., points out that the latest generation of retirees is redefining what it means to be retired. “For many, retirement will indeed no longer signal the end of working, but more so a career and lifestyle transition, where the retiree has multiple options,” Dr. Hansen explained, citing continued education, entrepreneurship, volunteer work, and leisure as the mix

that baby boomers are using to expand their horizons in retirement.

Offering opportunities in each of these areas, great amenities for seniors, and a cost of living well below the national average, Bowling Green has become a premier location for a new group of active retirees. Named by Great Places as one of its “Best Places to Retire Top 10” and making Top Retirements’ list of the “100 Best Places to Retire” in 2010, the

• Continuing education: Programs at Western Kentucky University and nearby regional colleges offer abundant opportunities to learn something new.

• Entrepreneurship: Bowling Green has been ranked among the best metro areas for small business startups by CNNMoney.com.

• Volunteering: Mentor youth, serve on a board, reach out to those in need, or help to preserve the beauty and historic significance of Bowling Green through a number of great organizations and grassroots groups.

• Leisure activities: Historical sites, an excellent parks and recreation system, cultural events, natural attractions, and great golfing at newly renovated country clubs make South Central Kentucky a place to play and explore.

The opportunities to transition into a new and rewarding stage of life are all here, making Bowling Green a place where retirees come to live their dreams.

At Chandler Park Assisted Living, private suites offer easy access to the courtyard fountain, ice cream shop, beauty shop, and library, creating a community seniors can enjoy while receiving the help they need. www.chandlerparkassistedliving.com

50 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

healthcare From carefree, apartment-home living at Village Manor to specialized care at the Christian Health Center, the Christian Care Communities in Bowling Green offer peace of mind and convenience for a variety of seniors. www.christiancarecommunities.org

Each resident is unique in both personality and physical needs, so Morningside Assisted Living specializes in assisted living with customized lifestyles. www.morningsideassistedliving.com

Bowling Green Retirement Village offers the right blend of assistance and activity, including daily meals, transportation, an indoor pool, an exercise room, and gatherings that meet the social needs of today’s seniors. www.bgrv.com

www.bgchamber.com | 51

Worship services at Hillvue Heights are highlighted by the church’s praise band, who typically begin the Sunday service with several songs of worship. The words to the songs are projected onto two screens in the front of the worship center, and the congregation is welcome to sing along or just listen. The congregation takes full advantage of 21st-century technology in sharing their message of faith and hope: Video of Sunday music service and messages is available on the Hillvue Heights website. www.hillvue.com

churches 52 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

churches On February 28, 2010, the parish community of Holy Spirit Catholic Church celebrated the move to their new home across from Basil Griffin Park with a walking pilgrimage from their old building to the new state-of-the-art “Parkside” campus. The first Masses at Parkside were celebrated on March 6 and 7. www.holyspiritcatholic.org

Photo by Ronnie Ryne

About three years ago, the 100-year-old congregation of Broadway launched a new site, merging with Greenwood United Methodist and creating an additional site for their church. It has been a rousing success for the congregation and the community. “In the last 10 years Broadway as a congregation grew from about 250 people to over a thousand in worship attendance on Sunday,” said Executive Pastor Adam Shourds. “We called our second campus an outpost of hope. We want to be able to have an impact on various parts of our community, and even now we’re actually looking at whether to do a third site.” www.broadwayunited.org

A new expansion of Living Hope is on schedule to be finished by January 2011. “We wanted to provide additional educational space for our kids and also have an area where we could do outreach to the community with the double gym,” said Stewardship Minister Mark Gilliam. “We converted Holy Spirit’s former parish hall to high school ministry space for Sunday school classes and for corporate worship. It also gives us a big place to gather. We’re looking forward to its completion so that we can better minister to the community that we live in.” www.livinghopewired.com

www.bgchamber.com | 53

churches

Area

Congregations

Bowling Green Christian Church

Christ Episcopal Church

1912 Smallhouse Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-6231 www.bowlinggreenchristian.org

1215 State Street Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-6563 www.cecbg.com

Bowling Green First Assembly

Crossland Community Church

1423 Scottsville Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-0223 www.bgfafamily.com

600 U.S. 31-W Bypass, Suite 180 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270 842-4428 www.crosslandchurch.org

Broadway United Methodist Church

Eastwood Baptist Church

1323 Melrose Street Bowling Green, KY 42104 270 843-3942 www.broadwayunited.org

500 Eastwood Avenue Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-842-7867 www.eastwoodbc.org

Center Baptist Church

First Baptist Church

241 S. Union Road Franklin, KY 42135 270-784-2400

621 E. 12th Avenue Bowling Green, KY 42101 270 842-0331 www.firstbaptistbg.org

Grace & Peace Presbyterian 923 College Street, Suite 200 Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-799-0176 www.gracepeacebg.com

Hillvue Heights Church 3219 Nashville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-842-0012 www.hillvue.com

Holy Spirit Catholic Church 4754 Smallhouse Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-7777 www.holyspiritcatholic.org

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church & School 553 Ashmoor Avenue Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-1001 www.htlsbg.com

Hope in Messiah Congregation 2107 Old Louisville Road Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-303-9410 www.hopeinmessiah.org

Living Hope Baptist Church 1805 Westen Avenue Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-843-9462 www.livinghopewired.com

Presbyterian Church 1003 State Street Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-4707 www.bgpres.org

The churches listed are partners of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce as of October 2010. Information about other worship facilities, including reaching various religions and creeds, is available at www.bgky.org.

54 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

culture & entertainment

www.bgchamber.com | 55

SKyPAC to Bring Outstanding Performances to Bowling Green “Possibilities are boundless.”

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270-393-0080 :: www.theskypac.com

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outhern Kentucky Performing Arts Center is a series of concrete and steel measures that will soon host the swelling movements of performance masterpieces. The downtown facility was fully enclosed in November 2010 for ongoing interior work until fall of 2011, a construction project that will result in comprehensive capabilities for hosting arts performances and events.

“It’s something that’s exciting for Bowling Green,” said SKyPAC Project Director Mary Carpenter.

SKyPAC’s possibilities are boundless. In addition to the 1,800-seat auditorium, it will feature a 150-seat multipurpose room that can be used for rehearsal, as well as two additional rehearsal spaces. A 10,000-square-foot lobby can seat 300 for dinner. The 110-foot by 47-foot stage can accommodate Broadway shows.

“We plan on having everything,” Carpenter said.

Programs are in the early stages. “We still have lots of work to do,” Carpenter said. “The organization is really starting to get programs nailed down now that construction has progressed.”

Arts education will include reaching out to outlying communities and bringing people to Bowling Green.

“This should be fabulous for downtown,” Carpenter said.

56 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Downtown Merchants & Professionals Association

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“Come and make memories.”

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owling Green’s Downtown Merchants & Professionals Association is grass roots: people working together to make a difference, bring people downtown, and preserve the past while moving toward a great future.

Downtown is known for superlative hospitality, and the association is committed to making sure that continues.

“We all strive in our own businesses to retain the quality and service that will attract not only Bowling Green residents, but tourists,” said Michael Barron, association organizer and owner of Morris Jewelry.

Business meetings each month attract dozens of entrepreneurs who plan into the next year.

“The more you forecast and plan for events, the better they turn out,” Barron said.

The events are plentiful: • Second Saturdays hearken to a bustling era. “People remember the buzz in the city center in the ’30s, ’40s, and ’50s,” Barron said. Second Saturdays bring back the buzz

with street fairs at Fountain Square Park.

Attractions include sidewalk sales, inflatables for children, artists, food, and vendors.

• Fountain Fridays will include carriage rides, musicians, and possibly movies in Fountain Square Park.

• Scare on the Square is a trick-or-treat opportunity for younger patrons.

• Downtown Lights Up expands in 2010 to include every Friday during the Christmas season.

Barron certainly practices what he preaches, living above his store and enjoying every great attraction, all within easy walking distance. New mixed-use developments and the performance center add to the excitement downtown.

“All of that I think speaks to a very exciting future,” Barron said. “What we have within our city center is a destination. We want folks to come and shop and enjoy and take advantage of the services everyone offers.

“Downtown is a place for people to come and make memories.” www.bgchamber.com | 57

Music in the Air: Concerts in the Park “It’s a warm, family, fun atmosphere.”

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culture & entertainment

www.downtownbg.org/events/

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owntown Redevelopment Authority’s Concerts in the Park series has a long history, but one that is becoming more lustrous by the engagement.

The series, in its 31st year, was being attended by several hundred people 15 years ago. That number swelled to an astounding 20,000 patrons in 2009.

“This really shows that people love Downtown Bowling Green,” said Downtown Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Cheryl Blaine.

Indeed, the event’s huge surge in popularity has influenced the spread of the concerts into both Fountain Square Park and Circus Square Park, which have hosted concerts at the same time.

Blaine credits title sponsor BB&T for expansion of the series.

58 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

“BB&T stepped up to the plate, allowing us to provide free, family entertainment in downtown Bowling Green,” she said. “But the series is also sponsored by various contributors, including the musicians. We’ve really appreciated their willingness to work with our nonprofit group.”

Also getting into the act, downtown merchants are staying open later on concert nights to accommodate the crowds. And that’s just one example of downtown elements coming together. In 2009, a

twin bill of concerts at Fountain Square and Circus Square combined with a Bowling Green Hot Rods game to allow 12,000 happy people to enjoy a splendid evening together.

“Seeing the crowds come downtown for several events at the same time is just wonderful,” Blaine said. “It’s a warm, family, fun atmosphere. What started as a local effort is now a regional attraction, and I think it’s something that’s truly loved by the community.”

Moving to the Midwest for Major Action

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Though they may have switched leagues, the Hot Rods have planted firm roots in Bowling Green. bowlinggreen.hotrods.milb.com

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he Bowling Green Hot Rods are truly “Fueled by Fun” in ways that beg to be experienced, and the Single A affiliate is anything but minor league.

The team is building on the success of its first season in 2009. Ramping up the action, the Hot Rods moved to the Midwest League in 2010, ensuring fans get to see the prospects of every Major League Baseball team.

“We took it to be in position to put MLB’s future stars in front of our fans,” said CEO/General Manager Brad Taylor. “We thought that was a pretty neat thing.”

Though they may have switched leagues, the Hot Rods have planted firm roots in Bowling Green.

Hot Rod mascots are in schools, and the team is digging into charitable endeavors. Bowling Green fans

are putting their stamp on things as well, resulting in, among other things, myriad changes in menus.

Getting into tune with the city’s healthy appetite, the team is serving veggie burgers, turkey burgers, and grilled chicken caesar wraps. And it turns out this is a town that likes to see things go out with a bang.

“We’ve learned this market likes fireworks, so the team features them every Friday now instead of once a month,” Taylor said.

“Our first year was kind of like our market research year, as the franchise built the stadium and established the brand.” Taylor said. “We have traction in our market now, so this year we’re really kind of tweaking it.”

The Hot Rods are part of the Tampa Bay Rays farm system. The Rays were in the World Series the fall before the Hot Rods’ first game, so Bowling

Green should see great prospects every year. The Hot Rods put three players in the Midwest League All-Star Game in 2010.

Hot Rods Ballpark has hosted many events, including a Western Kentucky University game that drew the largest crowd in Kentucky college history at more than 6,100. It’s also been a great venue for high school games, charity events, and even an orchestra performance.

Taylor noted, “The Hot Rods’ product is baseball, but the product of that product is fun — people coming here and having a good time.

“We’re very proud to be one of the first new pieces downtown.”

www.bgchamber.com | 59

Theatre Drama continues to take center stage.

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culture & entertainment

rom community theatrical groups to professional productions, drama continues to take center stage in the region’s amazing theatres.

Capitol Arts Alliance 270-782-2787 :: www.capitolarts.com

The nonprofit Capitol Arts Alliance provides a variety of programs for the community, including diverse, rotating art shows in its gallery space and performing arts productions at the Capitol Arts Theatre. Built in the 1890s, the theatre seats approximately 800 and still displays classic art deco styling, retained from its renovation in the 1930s. The Alliance offers theatre programs for area youth and hosts a broad spectrum of outside performers that thrill audiences with music, drama, magic, and dance each season.

Fountain Square Players

Fountain Square Players is completely volunteer-driven and always welcomes newcomers. They offer five different productions each year, including comedies, dramas, and musicals.

270-782-3119 :: www.fountainsquareplayers.org

Kentucky Repertory Theatre

For over three decades, this community theatre group has given area residents the opportunity to get involved in every aspect of theatre. From set designers and construction specialists to members of the cast and crew,

270-786-2177 :: www.kentuckyrep.org

Located in Horse Cave, the Kentucky Repertory Theatre (KRT) celebrates its 35th birthday with another season of professional theatre productions, special events, and youth programs. KRT offers a diverse repertory of shows, including a rotating summer schedule and a special Christmas season.

Public Theatre of Kentucky 270-781-6233 :: www.ptkbg.org

Each year, the Public Theatre of Kentucky brings high-quality theatrical productions and other performing arts events to the historic Phoenix Theatre in the heart of downtown Bowling Green. The nonprofit organization also provides Sunburst Youth Theatre programs, including youth productions and a summer day camp.

Coming Soon: SKyPAC 270-393-0080 :: www.theskypac.com

Scheduled to open in 2011, the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center (SKyPAC) in downtown Bowling Green will be the region’s newest performance venue. The center will provide exposure to the visual arts as well as regional and national productions of theatre, dance, and music.

60 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

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Music

culture & entertainment

Orchestra Kentucky of Bowling Green (OKBG)

270-846-2426 :: www.orchestrakentucky.com

rom the stately beauty of orchestral music to the energy of live music in an outdoor setting, experience the rhythms of the South Central Kentucky sound through a variety of venues.

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Formerly known as the Bowling Green Chamber Orchestra, this growing orchestra of professional performers includes both local and national talent. Their annual concert series includes a broad spectrum of events and musical styles, including classical-pops mixes, family concerts, show tunes, retro hits, and special events. The OKBG also offers educational outreach programs to get area young people excited and involved, including youth orchestras, a string academy, school day performances, and the Young at Art series.

Concerts in the Park Series

The Symphony at WKU

www.downtownbg.org

270-745-7681 :: www.thesymphonyatwku.org

This annual series of free concerts is sponsored by the Downtown Redevelopment Authority and gives the community the opportunity to enjoy live music in a casual, outdoor setting. Held in Fountain Square Park and Circus Square Park during the months of June and July, these performances feature an eclectic mix of artists representing a variety of genres, including rock, country, blues, pop, R&B, soul, and jazz.

In a tradition that is now over a century old, The Symphony at WKU continues to enrich the lives of residents and visitors through the beauty of orchestral music. Led by Dr. Bill Scott, the symphony has returned to its home, Van Meter Hall, for the 2010–11 season after Van Meter’s multimillion dollar restoration. The orchestra’s yearly concert schedule includes a variety of classical, pops, and family performances as well as professional chamber ensembles.

Experience the rhythms of the South Central Kentucky sound.

www.bgchamber.com | 61

Festivals & Events

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culture & entertainment

Festivals feature a host of fun events.

April

June

• Held each year during national Library Week, the Southern Kentucky Book Fest has been named one of Kentucky’s Top 10 Events and is the state’s largest literary event. The one-day festival includes book signings, activities for children, and author presentations. 270-745-5016; www.sokybookfest.org

• The Glasgow Highland Games at Barren River Lake State Resort Park celebrate Scottish and Irish culture and traditions. The event features athletic competitions such as the caber toss, sheaf toss, hammer throw, and Highland wrestling as well as traditional entertainment, crafts, and food. www.glasgowhighlandgames.com

• The week-long Jacksonian Days festival in Scottsville celebrates music, arts, crafts, and great food. The festival also features a host of fun events, including a fishing tournament, children’s events, a demolition derby, a street fair, a beauty pageant, and more. 270-237-4782

• Hot rods swarm to the city of Bowling Green each Father’s Day weekend for the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion at Beech Bend Raceway. This threeday festival of speed and American automotive enthusiasm features thousands of cars on display, drag racing, vendors, the spectacular Cacklefest, and legends of the sport in a family-fun atmosphere. 909-622-8562; www.museum.nhra.com

May • The Junior Achievement Mini Corvette Challenge at the National Corvette Museum features contestants racing miniature Corvette go-carts for a chance to take home the Gold Cup and a year’s worth of bragging rights. The event includes children’s activities and the Cool Car Show.

270-782-0280; http://jaforkids.com

July • The Green River Catfish Festival is Morgantown’s four-day celebration of American independence. The event features a catfish tournament, car cruisein, carnival rides, a parade, the Lawnmower Demolition Derby, live entertainment, games, and fireworks. 270-526-6827; www.morgantown-ky.com

• The Adairville Strawberry Festival celebrates its 65th year in 2011. This festival in Logan County offers carnival rides, a 5K run, arts and crafts, parades, pageants, a car and tractor show, live entertainment, and a re-enactment of the famous Adairville duel between Charles Dickinson and Andrew Jackson. 270-726-2206 or 270-539-6731

• The Southern Kentucky Fair is a week-long event that brings a midway carnival, pageants, exhibits, livestock shows, demolition derbies, truck pulls, and tractor pulls to Bowling Green. Proceeds from the fair go to the Bowling Green/Warren County Jaycees to support worthwhile local causes.

270-842-7980; www.sokyfair.org

• The Kiwanis Club of Bowling Green’s annual BB&T All-American Soap Box Derby takes place on the Kiwanis’ state-of-the-art track at Phil Moore Park. The event is the third-largest soap box derby in the world, and winners of their respective events have the opportunity to go on to the world championship race in Akron, Ohio. www.bgkiwanis.org/soapbox

• Walk among hundreds of Bowling Green’s finest products on display at the National Corvette Homecoming. Held at the Sloan Convention Center and named one of Kentucky’s Top 10 Summer Events in 2010, this yearly celebration includes car parades, judged competitions, seminars, vendors, crafts, and loads of camaraderie. 270-791-2117

62 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

August

culture & entertainment

• The Bowling Green Junior Woman’s Club’s Duncan Hines Festival honors one of the town’s most notable natives with a recipe contest, pageants, a duck derby, a concert in the park, and other fun activities. www.duncanhinesfestival.com • Bowling Green is the birthplace of a progressive style of bluegrass music known as “newgrass,” and the International Newgrass Festival brings the music back home for three days each August. Held at Ballance Farms, the festival features the best in newgrass music with performances by the genre’s founding fathers and exciting new artists. www.newgrassfestival.com

September • The Monroe County Watermelon Festival brings thousands to Tompkinsville each year on the Saturday before Labor Day. The festival includes a parade, arts and crafts, running events, music, watermelon activities, and other fun attractions. 270-487-5504 • Bowling Green sets aside the final Saturday in September to celebrate cultural diversity at the Bowling Green International Festival. The festival includes booths, demonstrations, and an international bazaar highlighting music, dance, food, traditions, and cultures from around the world. 270-904-6339; www.bginternationalfest.com • Sponsored by Scotty’s Contracting & Stone, the Festival of Sand in Bowling Green features games, entertainment, food, amazing sand sculptures, and a giant sandbox for kids. The festival benefits the Kids on the Block program. 270-842-2259; www.kykob.org • U.S. Bank’s Balloons, Tunes and BBQ brings hot air balloonists from around the country to Bowling Green for competitions, tether rides, and an evening balloon glow. The event also features a singing competition, as well as live music from recording artists and local bands. BBQ vendors are on hand to make sure no one leaves hungry; proceeds benefit local charities.

270-745-7532; www.balloonstunesbbq.com

October • Runners flock to Bowling Green for the Medical Center 10K Classic to compete in this premier road race, which includes running, walking, and wheelchair events ranging from 1.5 miles to 10 kilometers. Other activities include a health and fitness expo, a pasta party, and entertainment.

270-796-2141; www.10k.bowlinggreen.net • The Logan County Tobacco and Heritage Festival begins on the first Saturday and runs through the second Saturday of October each year. The festival celebrates the community’s history with over 35 events, including a 5K run/ walk, golf scramble, arts and crafts, a parade, and entertainment. 270-726-2206, www.loganchamber.com • Edmonton’s annual Metcalfe County Pumpkin Festival includes arts and crafts, antiques, a 5K run, music, a car cruise-in, an antique tractor show, pumpkin-themed events, and other fun attractions. 270-432-3222

November • Enjoy Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the National Corvette Museum on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, with arts and craft activities, holiday performances, a variety of breakfast items, photo opportunities with Santa, vendors, and more. 270-781-7973

December • Held at the Historic Railpark and Train Museum in the L&N Depot in Bowling Green, the Festival of Trains includes children’s activities, a model railroad display, train car tours, and displays of railroad artifacts and memorabilia. 270-745-7317; www.historicrailpark.com

www.bgchamber.com | 63

recreation & tourism 64 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

recreation & tourism “We find the story first and then we look for the artifact to represent the story.”

270-779-4186 :: www.aviationheritagepark.com

T

he list of distinguished military aviators who hail from South Central Kentucky ranges from a pioneer of combat aviation in the early 1900s to a modern-day space shuttle astronaut. Along the way, the region has been the home of Kentucky’s first WWI Flying Ace, top military exhibition pilots, a presidential helicopter pilot, and many noteworthy flying warriors from America’s past.

Today, Aviation Heritage Park in Bowling Green honors these pilots and preserves their stories through a growing exhibit of vintage aircraft.

Located on Three Springs Road near Interstate 65’s Exit 22, the park is designed to inspire area youth and create a unique opportunity for aviation enthusiasts.

The park is the brainchild of a collection of aviators and individuals within the community, but the story of its creation centers around the unlikely reunion of retired Air Force Gen. Dan Cherry and Phantom #550, the F-4D fighter he used to shoot down a North Vietnamese MIG in 1972. In a series of events that Cherry describes as “providential,” the plane that played an important role in his military career so many years ago returned to impact his life in retirement and became the catalyst for Aviation Heritage Park.

It was one year after Cherry’s retirement in 1988 that Phantom #550 also completed its military service. Phased out by the F-16, the plane was scheduled to go to Tucson for decommissioning and desert storage with the other F-4s of its unit. However, a crack was discovered in a major structural member following the Phantom’s final mission, and it was deemed unsafe to fly.

Therefore, rather than going to Arizona, the MIGkiller remained at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

to the pilot who ejected from the MIG-21 he shot down in Vietnam. That outreach resulted

B y J ay N ehrkorn

Aviation Heritage Park

During the process of restoring Phantom #550, Gen. Cherry became interested in reaching out

in a meeting between the two former enemy pilots, who have now achieved a lasting friendship. Cherry has since written a book entitled My Enemy, My Friend about the experience. The book is available at www.aviationheritagepark.com, and all proceeds go to the Aviation Heritage Park perpetual maintenance fund to restore and protect historic aviation artifacts.

in Ohio and ultimately ended up on display at a VFW post in a small town outside Dayton.

Years later, Cherry and some friends went to visit the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton and, to their great surprise, happened upon his old plane during their travels. Finding it in very poor condition, the group was determined to save Phantom #550 from further deterioration and loss. Then, during a meeting with retired attorney and Bowling Green historian Ray Buckberry, they became aware of the many significant aviators

who had roots in South Central Kentucky, and their path forward suddenly became clear.

“If we could get possession of the F-4, it would be the cornerstone of an educational facility to ensure that these wonderful stories aren’t lost in time and that they can be used as a motivational tool to let young people know that these things weren’t accomplished by mythical characters from somewhere else, but by real people from right here,” Cherry said.

The group went on to acquire and restore Phantom #550, which became the inaugural display at Aviation Heritage Park. In 2010, they added a second plane — an F9F Panther honoring Western Kentucky State Teacher’s College graduate Johnny Magda, who flew a Panther with the Blue

Angels in 1949–1950 before being killed in action during a mission over Korea in 1951. The park board is also in the process of adding an F-111F that was part of the strike on Libya in 1986 — a mission in which local resident and park vice president Arnie Franklin was the flight leader.

“What we do is we find the story first and then we look for the artifact to represent the story.

That story has to be about a real person who has a connection to South Central Kentucky,” Cherry explained. “We try to be diverse with our exhibits to represent different periods of aviation, and this Libyan raid is really the beginning of the war on terror.”

Thanks to strong local support, Aviation Heritage Park continues with plans for more aircraft and interactive displays, as well as ideas for an indoor visitors’ center.

“The community has really been supportive of us, and we’ve been able to raise the money to do some expensive things. We’re proud to be able to accomplish this and even prouder that the lion’s share of the money has come from small donations from individuals,” Cherry continued.

“It’s a very patriotic community, and we probably have more than our share of veterans, so honoring those people who have served and the many who have paid the ultimate price is really part of who we are. I think we at Aviation Heritage Park will continue to facilitate that.”

Visited daily by local families and an everincreasing number of tourists, the airplanes at the park are succeeding in their final mission of keeping South Central Kentucky’s aviation legacy alive — a mission made possible thanks to dedicated park leadership, an enthusiastic community, and a meticulous Air Force inspector who noticed a crack over 20 years ago. www.bgchamber.com | 65

National Corvette Museum Two ultra-realistic driving simulators provide drivers with a safe environment where they can learn valuable lessons.

B y J ay N ehrkorn

recreation & tourism

800-53-VETTE www.corvettemuseum.org

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ocated just across the street from the world’s only GM Corvette Assembly Plant, the National Corvette Museum (NCM) in Bowling Green has long been a destination for fans of America’s Sports Car. The museum has approximately 80 cars on display and a variety of exhibits, as well as fun interactive displays that offer visitors a view from a racing Corvette and give kids the chance to work in their very own pit crew. But NCM’s latest additions are neither toys nor games, and their focus is on driving safety rather than racing.

Thanks to a grant from the Kentucky Department of Transportation, the museum has acquired two ultra-realistic driving simulators that provide drivers with a safe environment where they can learn valuable lessons. Patterned after the Pontiac Sunfire, the units provide amazingly authentic views, feelings, and movements as drivers respond to a wide range of real-world driving scenarios. Anyone can

66 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

learn from the experience, but the target audience is young drivers, and the museum is working with teachers and students to maximize the simulators as educational tools.

“When we first got them, we invited all of our local high school driving instructors to come try them out and give us some feedback on what our simulators have that could translate over to their classrooms,” said NCM Tours and Admissions Supervisor Chris Sweeney. “Several of the driving instructors have been very nice about bringing in students of differing experience levels to let them get in it and give feedback on how our system works best with what is taught in their curriculum.”

One of the most popular scenarios that these virtual vehicles produce has the driver merging onto a busy freeway and receiving grades on how aspects of the merge were handled. Conditions are

then changed with each repetition so that students are given a more realistic approach to their training.

A simulation demonstrating the dramatic effect of speed and road conditions on braking distances is a favorite among parents who observe their teenagers in the simulators.

“We’ve also had representatives in from different government branches,” Sweeney continued. “The Kentucky State Police had some folks come out to practice for themselves, and their words to us rang true, saying, ‘You know, if it saves one person’s life who comes in here, then the money that was granted and paid for these is well spent.’ I think that’s a great way to put it.”

The simulators are open daily, and any museum visitor with a learner’s permit or driver’s license can sign up at the admissions counter for a 15-minute session.

South Central Kentucky Attractions American Cave Museum/Hidden River Cave 270-786-1466 :: http://cavern.org

Dinosaur World

recreation & tourism

270-773-4345 :: www.dinoworld.net

Over 100 life-size dinosaurs and mammoth replicas displayed in natural settings bring the prehistoric world to life. Designed to be fun and educational, the park includes a bone-yard fossil dig, a movie cave, and a museum with actual dinosaur fossils.

National Corvette Museum

270-781-7973 :: 800-53-VETTE :: www.corvettemuseum.org

See classic, new, and prototype Corvettes in all their glory while enjoying high-tech exhibits and displays of rare collectibles. Be sure to shop at the Corvette Store while you’re there, and plan on touring the world’s only Corvette Assembly Plant nearby.

Jackson’s Orchard 270-781-5303 :: www.jacksonsorchard.com

Thousands of apple, peach, and plum trees make up this family-owned orchard, offering many inseason specialties throughout the year like pies, cider, honey, relishes, and more. Visit in the fall for the annual Pumpkin Festival.

Riverview at Hobson Grove

Kentucky Down Under

270-843-5565 :: www.bgky.org/riverview

270-843-9779 :: www.brimsbg.org

270-786-2634 :: 800-762-2869 • www.kdu.com

With nearly 50 unique, hands-on exhibits, this science and technology museum is educational and entertaining for young and old alike.

For over 20 years, Kentucky Down Under has given visitors the chance to meet some of the Outback’s most interesting animals and learn about Australia’s unique culture.

This beautiful Italianate home, which was used as a munitions magazine by the Confederate troops who held Bowling Green during the winter of 1861–1862, is now an official site on the Civil War Discovery Trail. Elegant and true to the period, the home is open for tours and is the site of the Victorian Antique and Garden Festival in May as well as Candlelight Tours in December.

Get an inside look at the science of caves and groundwater in the museum and then enjoy a milelong Adventure Tour into the depths of this amazing underground ecosystem.

Barren River Imaginative Museum of Science (BRIMS)

Beech Bend 270-781-7634 :: www.beechbend.com

Providing family entertainment since 1898, this amusement park offers a host of rides, attractions, and shows for guests of all ages, as well as a recently expanded water park. Camping facilities are provided within walking distance of the attractions, and racing enthusiasts can enjoy weekly drag racing and stock car events at the nearby Beech Bend Raceway.

Bowling Green Hot Rods 270-901-2121 :: bowlinggreen.hotrods.milb.com

The Class A Minor League affiliates of the Tampa Bay Rays are at the Bowling Green Ballpark for nearly 70 home games from April through August, offering affordable family fun, exciting promotions and giveaways, and a great American tradition.

Shaker Museum at South Union 800-811-8379 :: 270-542-4167 www.shakermuseum.com

Kentucky Library & Museum 270-745-2592 :: www.wku.edu/library/kylm

Located on the campus of Western Kentucky University, this time capsule for Kentucky history explores the state’s culture and heritage, including an in-depth look at life in South Central Kentucky during the Civil War.

Historic Railpark & Train Museum at the L&N Depot 270-745-7317 :: www.historicrailpark.com

All aboard at L&N Depot for an experience in rail transportation history. Guests will enjoy interactive exhibits, displays of railway artifacts, one of the region’s largest model railroads, and the opportunity to climb aboard restored rail cars dating back to the early 1900s.

Lost River Cave Chaney’s Dairy Barn 270-843-5567 :: www.chaneysdairybarn.com

Nationally recognized for its premium ice cream, Chaney’s also offers homemade soups and sandwiches. Group tours of the working dairy farm are available by reservation.

Diamond Caverns 270-749-2233 :: www.diamondcaverns.com

This privately owned cave adjacent to Mammoth Cave National Park features state-of-the-art lighting, allowing guests a magnificent view of the cavern’s beautiful calcite deposits, flowstone formations, and cathedral-like chambers.

270-393-0077 :: 866-274-2283 :: www.lostrivercave.com

Enjoy Kentucky’s only underground boat tour, beautiful trails, an educational wetland, and enchanting butterfly habitat just minutes away from downtown Bowling Green.

Mammoth Cave National Park 270-758-2180 :: www.nps.gov/maca

With 367 miles of vast chambers and complex labyrinths, Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest known cave system. Ranger-led tours designed for a variety of physical capabilities are available. The surrounding park also offers beautiful scenery and camping opportunities.

Discover a simpler way of life at the historic site of the South Union Shaker Village and see scores of original Shaker furniture, textiles, crafts, and manuscripts while touring the 1824 Centre House and Meeting House.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Camp Resort 270-773-3840 :: 800-523-1854 www.jellystonemammothcave.com

Reserve a campsite or a cabin at this family fun destination. Attractions include scheduled activities, a pool and waterslide, mini golf, a game room, an outdoor theater, playgrounds, bonfires, and visits from Yogi and his friends.

Additional South Central Kentucky Tourist Spots Barren River Lake State Resort Park parks.ky.gov/findparks/resortparks/br/

Guntown Mountain www.mammothcave.com/guntown/

Mammoth Cave Wax Museum 270-773-3010

Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum www.mammothcave.com/guntown/wildlife.htm

RiverWalk at Mitch McConnell Park www.bgky.org/bgpr

www.bgchamber.com | 67

recreation & tourism Family Fun The region’s parks and recreation centers offer an amazing variety of amenities.

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South Central Kentucky Public Parks & Recreation Centers For more information about South Central Kentucky’s public recreation facilities, contact the organizations listed below.

Attractive updates at Bowling Green’s 35,000-square-foot Sloan Convention Center have put a fresh new look on this trade show and convention destination. Last year, the center received new tile flooring in the lobby, all new draperies and banquet chairs, and an upgraded sound system. Carpeting and air walls throughout the facility were replaced in January 2011, completing the makeover.

Call 270-745-0088 or visit www.bgky.org/conventioncenter/index.php to learn more.

Amphitheater Archery/Shooting Range Badminton Court Baseball/Softball Field Basketball Court Batting Cage/Pitching Machine Bike Course/Trail Boating Community Center Croquet Court Cross-Country Course Disc Golf Dog Park Fishing Fitness Facility Football Field Garden Gazebo Golf Course Gymnasium Historic Site Horseshoe Pit Picnic Area Playground Racquetball Court Remote Control Car Track Roller Hockey Rink RV Hookups Sand Play Court Skate Park Soap Box Derby Track Soccer Field Swimming/Aquatic Center Tennis Court Volleyball Court Walking/Nature Trail

ive into fun at South Central Kentucky’s public parks! In addition to providing scenic natural oases, the region’s parks and recreation centers offer an amazing variety of amenities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, golf, tennis, volleyball, skate facilities, frisbee golf, swimming, boating and fishing, and walking and bike trails.

But there’s more. In addition to the usual community park activities, area parks offer recreation that’s rarely found in smaller communities — or even larger cities — like archery/shooting ranges, a croquet court, historic displays, a sand play court, a full-featured aquatic center, a remote control car track, outdoor theater, and even a roller hockey rink.

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Amphitheater Archery/Shooting Range Badminton Court Baseball/Softball Field Basketball Court Batting Cage/Pitching Machine Bike Course/Trail Boating Community Center Croquet Court Cross-Country Course Disc Golf Dog Park Fishing Fitness Facility Football Field Garden Gazebo Golf Course Gymnasium Historic Site Horseshoe Pit Picnic Area Playground Racquetball Court Remote Control Car Track Roller Hockey Rink RV Hookups Sand Play Court Skate Park Soap Box Derby Track Soccer Field Swimming/Aquatic Center Tennis Court Volleyball Court Walking/Nature Trail

EDMONSON County Parks Park Name Address Brownsville City Park Washington Street, Brownsville • • Chalybeate Sports Complex Highway 745, Chalybeate • • • • • Edmonson County Ballpark Hwy. 70, Mammoth Cave Rd., Brownsville • • • • • LOGAN COUNTY PARKS Park Name Address Carpenter Center 265 N. Main Street • • • Hampton Park Seventh Street, Russellville • • • • McCutchen-Coke Municipal Park Auburn • • • • • Recreation Center 190 S. Winter Street, Russellville • • Russellville-Logan County Memorial Park Russellville • • • • • • •

METCALFE COUNTY PARKS Park Name Address Bransetter Park Highways 90 and 163, Summer Shade • • Edmonton Memorial Park Randolph Street, Edmonton • • • • • • • • George K. Bowling Community Park Highway 68, Edmonton • • • • • • • • Metcalfe County Park Highway 68 near Greensburg • • • • • Pedigo Springs Park North Main Street, Edmonton • • • Sulpher Well Park Highway 70, Sulpher Well • • • • MONROE COUNTY PARKS Park Name Address Fountain Run City Park Highway 10, Gamaliel • • Gamaliel City Park Highway 100, Gamaliel • • Old Mulkey State Historic Site Old Mulkey Road, Tompkinsville • • • • Tompkinsville City Park Mill Creek Road, Tompkinsville • • • • • • • Allen County Parks..................................................270-237-3238 Butler County Parks..........................270-526-3557 Metcalfe County Parks........................................270-432-3222 Barren County Parks................................................270-561-3811

Edmonson County Parks...................270-597-3814

Monroe County Parks.........................................270-487-5504

Bowling Green Parks and Recreation.....................270-393-3000

Logan County Parks..........................270-726-5033

Warren County Parks and Recreation................270-842-5302

68 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

South Central Kentucky Public Parks & Recreation Centers For more information about South Central Kentucky’s public recreation facilities, contact the organizations listed on page 87.

Amphitheater Archery/Shooting Range Badminton Court Baseball/Softball Field Basketball Court Batting Cage/Pitching Machine Bike Course/Trail Boating Community Center Croquet Court Cross-Country Course Disc Golf Dog Park Fishing Fitness Facility Football Field Garden Gazebo Golf Course Gymnasium Historic Site Horseshoe Pit Picnic Area Playground Racquetball Court Remote Control Car Track Roller Hockey Rink RV Hookups Sand Play Court Skate Park Soap Box Derby Track Soccer Field Swimming/Aquatic Center Tennis Court Volleyball Court Walking/Nature Trail

recreation & tourism • • • •

• • • • •

•

• • • • • • •

Amphitheater Archery/Shooting Range Badminton Court Baseball/Softball Field Basketball Court Batting Cage/Pitching Machine Bike Course/Trail Boating Community Center Croquet Court Cross-Country Course Disc Golf Dog Park Fishing Fitness Facility Football Field Garden Gazebo Golf Course Gymnasium Historic Site Horseshoe Pit Picnic Area Playground Racquetball Court Remote Control Car Track Roller Hockey Rink RV Hookups Sand Play Court Skate Park Soap Box Derby Track Soccer Field Swimming/Aquatic Center Tennis Court Volleyball Court Walking/Nature Trail

Warren County Parks Park Name Address Ashmoor Park Ashmoor Subdivision • • Basil W. Griffin Jr. Park 2055 Three Springs Road • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Bowling Green Recreation Center 225 E. Third Ave. • • • • • Browning Community Park 3866 Browning Road • • C.W. Lampkin Park 506 Woodway Street • • • • • • • Chuck Crume Nature Park Topmiller Avenue West • Covington Woods Park 1044 Covington Avenue • • • • • • • Coy Alford Park/Delafield Community Ctr. 800 Beauty Avenue • • • • Cross Winds Golf Course 1031 Wilkinson Trace • The Crossings 2507 Crossings Boulevard • Ed Spear Park 226 Sunset Avenue, Smiths Grove • • • • • • Ephraim White Park 6487 Louisville Road • • • Fort Webb Park Beech Bend Rd./BG Country Club Dr. • Fountain Square Park 445 E. Main Street • • G.H. Freeman Park 545 Rich Pond Road-Plano Road • • • • • • H.P. Thomas Park 850 Cave Mill Road • • • • Hadley Community Park 12170 Morgantown Road • • • Hobson Grove Park/Riverview 1200 W. Main Street • • • • • James Hines Park 1218 Boatlanding Road • • • Kummer/Little Recreation Center 333 College Street • • Lovers Lane Park 385 Lovers Lane • • • • Michael O. Buchanon Park 9222 Nashville Road • • Parker-Bennett Recreation Center 300 Jenkins Street • • • • • Paul Walker Golf Course 1044 Covington Avenue • Pedigo Park 1341 Normalview Avenue • • • • • • Phil Moore Park 7101 Scottsville Road, Alvaton • • • • • • Preston Miller Park/Russell Sims Aquatic Ctr. 2303 Tomblinson Way • • • • • Ogden Park 1600 Park Street • Reservoir Hill Park 900 High Street • • • • • Richardsville Community Park 1779 Richardsville Road • • • • RiverWalk/McConnell Park 200 First Avenue East • Riverfront Park Riverview Drive & U.S. 31 W Bypass • Roland Bland Park/Skate Park 400 Center Street • • • • • • • • Romanza Johnson County Park Mt. Lebanon Church Road, Alvaton • • • Spero Kereiakes Park 1220 Fairview Avenue • • • • • • • • • Thomas Landing Park 4124 Barren River Road • Weldon Peete Park Old Louisville Road • • West Gate Park Morgantown Road • • • Westside Neighborhood Park Brownslock & Vine Streets • • Woodburn City Park Highway 361, Woodburn • • • •

• • • • • • • • • •

Amphitheater Archery/Shooting Range Badminton Court Baseball/Softball Field Basketball Court Batting Cage/Pitching Machine Bike Course/Trail Boating Community Center Croquet Court Cross-Country Course Disc Golf Dog Park Fishing Fitness Facility Football Field Garden Gazebo Golf Course Gymnasium Historic Site Horseshoe Pit Picnic Area Playground Racquetball Court Remote Control Car Track Roller Hockey Rink RV Hookups Sand Play Court Skate Park Soap Box Derby Track Soccer Field Swimming/Aquatic Center Tennis Court Volleyball Court Walking/Nature Trail

ALLEN COUNTY PARKS Park Name Address Cedar Springs Fire Department Park Old Port Oliver Road, Scottsville • Cedar Springs #2 Fire Department Park Hwy. 98, Brownsford Road, Scottsville • Community Center Poplar & Third Streets, Scottsville • • Crow Street Park Orange Street, Scottsville • Fred Hale Park Cottage Drive, Scottsville • • • Halifax Community Park 555 Halifax Settle Road, Scottsville • Meador Fire Department Old Gainesville-Port Oliver Road, Scottsville • Scottsville Roadside Park 31E, Old Gallatin Road, Scottsville • South Allen Fire Department Park Maple Grove Church Road, Adolphus • Stoney Point Fire Department Park Keen Road, Franklin •

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BARREN COUNTY PARKS Park Name Address American Legion Park Happy Valley Road, Glasgow Beaver Trail Complex 115 Beaver Trail, Glasgow Gorin Park East Main Street, Glasgow Twyman Park Twyman Park Road, Glasgow Weldon Park Cleveland Avenue, Glasgow BUTLER COUNTY PARKS Park Name Address Charles T. Black City Park 227 Helm Lane, Morgantown •

www.bgchamber.com | 69

index of advertisers Accountant

Assisted Living

BKD, LLP — Page 31

220 West Main St., Suite 1700 Louisville, KY 40202 502-581-0435 www.bkd.com

Bowling Green Retirement Village fax 502-581-0723

BKD, LLP is one of the 10 largest CPA and advisory firms in the U.S. providing consulting, tax, assurance, and accounting outsourcing solutions to businesses, governmental entities, not-for-profit organizations, and individuals.

Shelton & Associates, LLP — Page 14 181 West Professional Park Court Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-9620 sheltoncpas@bellsouth.net

Adult Care/Senior Living

Morningside of Bowling Green — Page 51

981 Campbell Lane Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-746-9600 fax 270-842-4104 www.morningsideofbowlinggreen.com

Morningside Assisted Living offers 24-hour quality assisted care to older adults by caring for the whole person.

Morningside promotes residents’ physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual well-being.

Agritourism/Restaurant

Chaney’s Dairy Barn

fax 270-843-5636

Rolling farmland, Jersey cows, homemade ice cream at Chaney’s. Lunch, Dinner, daily homemade soup, sandwiches and desserts. Kentucky gift shop, meeting space, concession trailer and tour appointments.

Airport

Bowling Green - Warren County Regional Airport — Page 60 1000 Woodhurst Drive Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-842-1101 www.bgwcairport.org Robert Barnett, Airport Manager

fax 270-842-7245

Open 24 hours, 7 days per week, full flight services, all weather capability, rental cars, aircraft maintenance, free parking, FBO courtesy car, two flight schools, aerial tours and hangar leasing. Airport management is now selling aviation fuel.

Appliances

Brock McVey Co. of Bowling Green — Page 42 943 Lovers Lane P.O. Box 20126 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-782-0484 www.brockmcvey.com

• 3 Meals Served Daily • Weekly Housekeeping • All Apartments on Ground Level • 24-Hour Emergency Response System • Beauty Salon/Barber Shop • Transportation to/from Doctor Appointments • Scheduled Activities 137 State Certified Assisted Living Apartments/Suites

fax 270-781-1911

Do you have an accountant who is dedicated to your accounting needs? Call us. We provide professional services for accounting, auditing, business valuations, tax planning and compliance, litigation support, and forensics accounting.

9191 Nashville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-5567 chaneyinfo@yahoo.com www.chaneysdairybarn.com

445 Middle Bridge Road West Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-842-5433 www.bgrv.com

fax 270-782-0496

The source for all your: • Appliances • Refrigeration • Lighting • Ice Machines • Plumbing • And More...

Architect

Attorney

fax 502-893-1876

Stengel Hill Architecture is a full-service architecture firm specializing in healthcare and commercial architecture.

Proudly serving our clients in the Bowling Green area including the Chamber of Commerce and The Medical Center.

Arts & Entertainment

The Symphony at WKU 500 East Main Street Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-745-7681 bgwso@insightbb.com www.thesymphonyatwku.org

The Symphony is a 100-year-old regional symphony that performs five concerts and presents three chamber music ensemble performances each year. Season subscription information and group discounts are available.

fax 270-782-7782

Established in 1973. Engaged in general trial and appellate practice in state and federal courts; health, medical negligence, labor, employment, education, estate planning and probate, banking, corporation, real estate, immigration, and environmental law.

fax 270-782-5856

Areas of Practice: Insurance Law, Personal Injury-Defense, Personal Injury-Plaintiff, Real Estate, Business Transactions, Estate Planning, Trusts, Business Organizations, Copyright and Trademark.

Linda B. Thomas, Attorney at Law Hartland Place, Suite A-1 996 Wilkinson Trace Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-842-8737 linda@smartcounsel.biz

fax 270-842-8739

Business law, entity formation/administration/dissolution, contracts, commercial and residential real estate transactions, planning and zoning, business succession strategies and adoptions.

Automotive - Repair

Lee Myles Transmissions & AutoCare 945 US 31-W Bypass Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-781-9339 suntrans@accessky.net www.leemyles.com

fax 270-745-7396

Lee Myles Transmissions & AutoCare specializes in transmission repair and rebuilding and can also handle most of your general auto care needs. ASE and AAA certified and BBB accredited.

Builder & Residential Design

Gemini Homes, Inc. — Page 42 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-782-8893 www.yourgeminihomes.com Kelly Arnold, CGP – owner

fax 270-782-3908

You Dream! We Build!

• Custom Homes • Remodeling/Additions • Lots for Sale • Plan Design • Real Estate Sales • Green Building • Homes for Sale • Decks/Outdoor Spaces • Replacement Windows

Jagoe Homes, Inc. — Page 42 300 Monarchos Lane Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-843-2173 www.jagoehomes.com

Yes You Can Build Your Jagoe Home Where YOU Want, How YOU Want!

Energy Star Certified Builder Incredible 30-Year Fixed Rate, Free Closing Cost Architect & Custom Design Team

70 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

Offering a Full Line of Masonry Products, Including: • Concrete and Clay Pavers • Glass Block • Firerock Fireplaces • Retaining Wall Block for Landscapes • Masonry Tools • Mountain Stone

1912 Smallhouse Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-6231 office@bowlinggreenchristian.org www.bowlinggreenchristian.org

MISSION: We exist to love God through worship, love the church through fellowship, love the world through evangelism, and love the broken through compassion.

Holy Spirit Catholic Church — Page 53 4754 Smallhouse Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-7777 www.holyspiritcatholic.org

• Please check website for Mass times.

MISSION: We are a welcoming Catholic community called to live our faith by celebrating sacraments and prayers; proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ; seeking lifelong faith formation; sharing our time, talents, and treasure; and reaching out in compassionate service to others.

Scott & Murphy Inc. — Page Outside Back Cover P.O. Box 2520 Bowling Green, KY 42102-2520 270-781-9944 www.scottandmurphy.com

260 Sweepstakes Court Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-792-5703 eliz260@aol.com

Timesavers Concierge and Chauffeur performs all those tasks that make daily life more difficult. From retirees to busy families, we help anyone who values the quality of their own time.

Construction/Contractors

Bowling Green-Warren County Contractors Licensing Board — Page 42 P.O. Box 1268 Bowling Green, KY 42102-1268 270-781-3530 bob.appling@bgky.org holly.warren@bgky.org www.bgky.org/contractorslicensing

fax 270-781-3481

When selecting your contractor for your new home, remodeling, or home improvement, always check to see if he or she is licensed and in good standing. The Contractors Licensing Board can be reached at 270-781-3530.

Builders Association of South Central Kentucky — Page 9 859 Lovers Lane Bowling Green, KY 42103-7903 270-781-3375 www.bascky.com

fax 270-782-5082

Whether you are building or remodeling or just hoping to make a small change to improve your home, we encourage you to Do Business With a Member.

Stewart-Richey Construction, Inc. — Page 17 2137 Glen Lily Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-842-5184 info@stewartrichey.com www.stewartrichey.com

fax 270-781-5467

Excavating Contractor: We do site preparation, grade and drain, clearing, and stone.

• Subdivisions • Commercial • Industrial • Residential

Scott, Murphy & Daniel, LLC — Page Outside Back Cover P.O. Box 2520 Bowling Green, KY 42102-2520 270-781-9944 www.scottmurphydaniel.com

fax 270-782-6654

• Construction Management • 18 in-house subcontractors • Commercial, Industrial, and Residential • Ranked nationally in the Top 25 Kirby dealers • Serving the community since 1973

Contractors

Scotty’s Contracting & Stone, LLC — Page 17 2300 Barren River Road P.O. Box 4500 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-781-3998 www.scottyscontracting.com

fax 270-781-3690

Contact us for a FREE estimate!

• Crushed Stone, Lime • Roads, Driveways, Parking Lots • Grade and Drain Construction READY TO ROCK!

Country Club

Indian Hills Country Club, Inc. 200 Indian Hills Drive P.O. Box 3595 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-842-0041 John L. Campbell, CCM General Manager info@indianhills-bgky.com www.indianhills-bgky.com

fax 270-793-9500

Private club with golf course, bar and grill, pool and snack bar. Call for rental rates for your private party or wedding reception. Corporate and charity golf outings are welcome!

Dentistry

Bluegrass Oral Health Center — Page 46 546 Park Street, Suite 400 Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-781-6161 www.bgohc.com

fax 270-781-6129

Our office provides comprehensive dental care in a friendly spa-like environment. Treatments include preventive restorations, Lumineers, root canal therapy, implants, zoom whitening, oral surgery, and sedation dentistry.

David A. Buchanan, D.M.D. John W. buchanan, D.M.D. — Page 66 546 Park St., Suite 100 Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-781-3133 buchanan_dentistry@insightbb.com

fax 270-846-0193

General Dentistry

Distribution

Valor Oil Company

Holland, Inc. — Page 61 7705 Russellville Road P.O. Box 73 Rockfield, KY 42274 270-781-7044

fax 270-782-2506

CONCRETE & CIVIL CONSTRUCTION SPECIALIST • Curbs • Sidewalks • Pavement • Foundations & Slabs • Retaining Walls • Tilt-Up Panels • Basements • Bridges • Culverts • Catch Basins • Equipment Foundations • Containment Structures / Trenches • Concrete Sawing & Demolition • Retention & Storm Drainage • Site Grading

Concierge Services

Timesavers Concierge & Chauffeur — Page 36

Kerrick, Stivers, Coyle & Van Zant, P.L.C. — Page 21

Stengel Hill Architecture — Page 9 613 W. Main St. Louisville, KY 40202 502-893-1875 jase@stengelhill.com www.stengelhill.com

fax 270-842-5437

English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP — Page 8

1025 State St. P.O. Box 9547 Bowling Green, KY 42102-9547 270-782-8160 www.kscvlaw.com

fax 270-781-0180

Bowling Green Christian Church — Page 54

fellow: • American College of Tax Counsel • The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel

1101 College St. P.O. Box 770 Bowling Green, KY 42102-0770 270-781-6500 inquiry@elpolaw.com www.elpolaw.com

309 Dishman Lane P.O. Box 3245 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-781-9813 digby@leebrickandblock.com www.leebrickandblock.com

Churches

A. Franklin Berry, Jr. Berry Law Firm

Hartland Place 996 Wilkinson Trace, Suite B-1 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-793-9300 fberry@berrylawfirm.com www.berrylawfirm.com

Building Materials

Lee Brick & Block — Page 42

fax 270-782-2506

• Design/Build Construction • Complete Engineering/Architectural/Design Services • Construction Management Services • Conventional General Contracting • Renovations/Conversions/Expansions

407 Raven Ave. Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-842-0361 www.valoroil.com

fax 270-993-2289

Valor Oil is a full-line petroleum distributor providing lubricants and fuel to service stations, convenience stores, commercial, industrial, mining and farming operations in Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois. Valor Oil also blends and supplies racing fuel nationwide.

Economic Development

Kentucky Transpark — Page 29

c/o Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce 701 College St., P.O. Box 51 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-393-8482 fax 270-843-0458

The Kentucky Transpark, an environmentally friendly and attractive high-tech commerce and business park, is located on highways U.S. 31-W and U.S. 68/KY80 on the north side of Bowling Green.

index of advertisers Economic/Industrial Development

Logan Economic Alliance for Development — Page 30 116 South Main St. Russellville, KY 42276 270-726-9575 tom@loganleads.com www.loganleads.com

fax 270-726-2237

LEAD is the economic development agency for Logan County Kentucky and its four cities, Adairville, Auburn, Lewisburg, and Russellville. LEAD markets industrial buildings and sites throughout the U.S. and globally.

Bowling Green Independent Schools — Page 38 fax 270-746-2205

Building on a tradition of excellence, Bowling Green Schools lead the way in education for all. The district serves students in five elementary schools, one middle, and one high school.

Bowling Green Technical College — Page 35 1845 Loop Dr. Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-901-1000 BG-Info@kctcs.edu www.bowlinggreen.kctcs.edu

Bowling Green Technical College is a two-year college offering degrees, diplomas, and certificates in over 30 programs in the divisions of Allied Health and Nursing, Applied Technology, Business and Information Technology, Engineering & Machine Technology, General Education & Enrichment, Adult Education & Literacy, and Workforce Solutions.

The Center for Gifted Studies — Page 38 1906 College Heights Blvd. # 71031 Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-745-6323 gifted@wku.edu www.wku.edu/gifted

fax 270-745-6279

The Center for Gifted Studies at Western Kentucky University has provided services for children and youth who are gifted and talented, their educators, and their parents for over 25 years.

Gordon Ford College of Business — Page 36 1906 College Hgts. Blvd. #11056 Grise Hall 453 Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-745-1902 www.wku.edu/gfcb

fax 270-745-3893

The Gordon Ford College of Business at WKU offers undergraduate degrees in accounting, economics, finance, information systems, management, and marketing. Its graduate program offers the MBA and Masters in Applied Economics degrees.

St. Joseph Interparochial School 416 Church Avenue Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-842-1235 Janice Lange, principal www.stjosephschoolbg.org

fax 270-842-9072

St. Joseph School is a regional Catholic grade school serving the local Catholic parishes, the Bowling Green community, and Warren and surrounding communities.

Warren County Public Schools — Page 39 303 Lovers Lane Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-781-5150 www.warren.kyschools.us

fax 270-781-2392

Operating 22 schools serving nearly 14,000 students, the Warren County Public Schools District is recognized for outstanding academic achievement and has earned numerous state and national awards.

Western Kentucky University — Page 34 1906 College Heights Blvd.

Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-745-0111 www.wku.edu

WKU is a comprehensive four-year institution with emphasis in undergraduate and graduate studies and relevant applied research — offering more than 100 degree programs, including a Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.).

Electrical - Contractors

Industrial Electrical Contractors — Page 63 121 Vanderbilt Court P.O. Box 51566 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-393-8466 www.iecbg.com

1600 Campbell Lane, Suite 103 Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-843-0767 gerri.bowers@na.manpower.com www.manpowerjobs.com

fax 866-811-3395

Long-term. Short-term. Temp hire. Permanent placement.

Today’s work world demands flexibility. Manpower creates solutions to help you adjust rapidly to workforce changes.

Engineering

Arnold Consulting Engineering — Page 57

Education

1211 Center St. Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-746-2200 www.bgreen.kyschools.us

Employment Agencies

Manpower — Page 28

fax 270-393-8980

A commercial and industrial electrical contractor providing construction, design, engineering, and maintenance services statewide since 1999.

1136 South Park Drive P.O. Box 1338 Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-780-9445 jarnold@a-ces.com www.a-ces.com

fax 270-780-9873

148 Chester Court Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-843-2247 fax 270-843-9323 ddsengineering@ddsengineering.com www.ddsengineering.com

DDS Engineering, PLLC, is committed to performing our work with “pride and excellence in surveying, civil and geotechnical engineering, landscape architecture and construction materials testing” with over 37 years of experience.

Engineering/Surveying

Cannon & Cannon, Inc. — Page 9 fax 270-843-2720

• General Civil Engineering • Field Surveying • Transportation & Traffic Design • Electrical Transmission & Distribution • Water/Wastewater • Gas Distribution • Stormwater Management • Residential/Commercial Site Development Providing the attention that each individual deserves.

Entertainment/Lounge

Ramada Inn Crossroads Restaurant & Lounge I-65 Exit 22 4767 Scottsville Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-3000 ramadainnbgky@msn.com www.ramadainnbowlinggreen.com

fax 270-782-2591

New Serta Beds and Furniture • Fridge and Microwave in All Rooms • 32” Flat Plasma TV with HBO in some rooms • Nightly Entertainment • Restaurant and Lounge • Free Home Cooked Breakfast • Wireless Internet • Exercise Room • Pets Allowed for a fee

financial Institutions

Bank of Edmonson County — Page 31 109 N Main St. P.O. Box 99 Brownsville, KY 42210 270-597-2175 www.bankofedmonson.com Bowling Green Branch 6780 Louisville Rd. 270-793-0033

fax 270-597-2573

BB&T — Page 22

fax 270-782-4464

BB&T and its subsidiaries offer full-service commercial and retail banking and additional financial services such as investments, insurance, corporate finance, international banking, leasing, and trust. Eight convenient locations.

Citizens First Bank — Page 24 1065 Ashley Street, Suite 150 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-393-0700 www.citizensfirstbank.com

• Checking • Savings • Personal Loans • Business Loans • Mortgage Loans • Online Banking • Bill Pay • E-Statements Bowling Green • Franklin • Glasgow Munfordville • Horse Cave

fax 270-237-3830

Republic Bank — Page 62 1700 Scottsville Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-782-9111 www.republicbank.com

fax 270-782-9398

Full-service neighborhood banking offering BreakFree checking, Premier 50 checking, CDs, money-market accounts, mortgages, home-equity loans, business checking, commercial loans, Internet banking, and a 24-hour infoline.

1609 Campbell Lane P.O. Box 51770 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-796-8500 socu@socu.com www.socu.com

fax 270-393-0716

fax 270-393-0035

When you join SOCU, you become a member of a fullservice, not-for-profit financial cooperative whose primary mission is serving its members. We’re here to serve you!

South Central Bank — Page 20

Bowling Green Branches 270-782-9696 1757 Campbell Lane 805 Lehman Avenue 3505 Louisville Road 2710 Nashville Road 5251 Scottsville Road 1709 U.S. 31W Bypass Franklin Branch 270-586-9696 204 South Main Street Franklin, KY 42134 www.southcentralbank.com

Hometown Banking ... there is a difference!

Business or personal, taking care of our customers’ needs is what we are all about.

U.S. Bank — Page Inside Back Cover 500 East Main Street 270-745-7600 1747 Ashley Circle 270-783-7220 721 Campbell Lane 270-783-7250 1970 Cave Mill Road 270-753-7230 810 Lain Ave. 270-783-7240 3240 Louisville Road 270-783-7260 www.usbank.com

flooring

Grinstead’s Flooring & Furnishings — Page 66 fax 270-843-1075

We carry a complete line of floor covering products, specializing in residential sales and installation. We have the largest selection of quality laminate in Bowling Green.

We do not charge for estimates.

funeral & Cremation Services

J.C. Kirby & Son Funeral Chapels & Crematory — Page 54 fax 270-842-1496

J.C. Kirby & Son have been serving the folks of Bowling Green and Warren County for the past 42 years. With over 260 years of combined experience, we feel we are adept to solve most any given problem.

Bowling Green Monument Company Bowling Green Gardens Cemetery

Johnson, Vaughn, Phelps Funeral Home, Inc. — Page 7 901 Fairview Ave. P.O. Box 1114 Bowling Green, KY 42102-1114 270-843-4338 jvpfh@bellsouth.net www.jvpfh.com

When selecting your contractor for your new home, remodeling, or home improvement, always check to see if he or she is licensed and in good standing. The Contractors Licensing Board can be reached at 270-781-3530

Health Care

First Choice Home Medical — Page 51

1945 Scottsville Road, Suite A-3 Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-393-9393 fax 270-393-9383 skip.wirth@firstchoicehomemedical.com www.firstchoicehomemedical.com

First Choice Home Medical is a locally owned and operated home respiratory and medical equipment company serving the Barren River District. Select First Choice for your home medical equipment needs.

Graves Gilbert Clinic — Page 48 201 Park Street P.O. Box 90007 Bowling Green, KY 42102-9007 270-781-5111 www.ggclinic.com

fax 270-780-0498

Since 1937, Graves-Gilbert Clinic has been a leader in providing quality healthcare to the South Central Kentucky region. The clinic consists of over 50 physicians representing 19 medical specialities.

Rivendell Behavioral Health Services — Page 48 1035 Porter Pike Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-843-1199 www.rivendelbehavioral.com

fax 270-782-9996

Rivendell Behavioral Health Services provides specialty mental health services for chemically dependent/dually diagnosed adolescents, and adolescent male sexual offenders, as well as general psychiatric programs for children and adolescents.

550 High Street Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-3296 www.rosewoodhealthcare.com

fax 270-782-9074

Rosewood Health Care is a skilled-nursing center providing skilled and intermediate nursing services; occupational, physical, speech, and respiratory services; nurse practitioner; subacute rehabilitation unit; and an Alzheimer’s unit.

The Medical Center — Page 45 250 Park St Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-745-1000 info@mcbg.org www.TheMedicalCenter.org

The region’s healthcare leader, offering comprehensive medical services including The Heart Institute, Cancer Treatment Center, Primary Stroke Center, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Orthopaedics, and daVinci® Robotic Surgery.

Western Kentucky Diagnostic Imaging — Page 49 1635 Scottsville Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-746-9500 www.wkdi.com

fax 270-746-9113

• X-Ray • CT Scan • Ultrasound • Fluoroscopy • Mammography • Nuclear Medicine • Echocardiography • Bone Density Evaluation • Stereotactic Breast Biopsy • Open MRI and High Field MRI MAKE US YOUR CHOICE FOR IMAGING AND EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE!

Work Therapeutics — Page 29, 49 fax 270-843-2349

A family owned and operated funeral home. All professional services, from embalming to final preparations, are preformed on location by our qualified staff.

Garbage Collection

Scott Waste Services, LLC — Page 60 1212 Eastland St. Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-783-4016 www.scottwaste.com

fax 270-781-3481

Rosewood Health Care Center — Page 46

Imagine what you can do, with all of US serving you.

U.S. Bank

1353 Old Louisville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-1072 grinsteadsfloori@bellsouth.net

Government

Bowling Green-Warren County Contractors Licensing Board P.O. Box 1268 Bowling Green, KY 42102-1268 270-781-3530 bob.appling@bgky.org holly.warren@bgky.org www.bgky.org/contractorslicensing

• Commercial • Consumer • Auto • Home Equity Lines • Equipment • Mortgage • Construction • and More!

832 Broadway Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-3111 www.jckirbyandson.com

Where banking is still a people business!

Full-service bank offering checking, CDs, money-market accounts, mortgages, home-equity loans, business checking, commercial loans, and Internet banking.

1820 Scottsville Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-782-1000 www.bbt.com

1595 Veterans Memorial Highway Scottsville, KY 42164 270-237-3141 www.fnbankky.com

Service One Credit Union — Page 13

DDS Engineering, PLLC — Page 14

730 Fairview Avenue, Suite C-1 Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-2744 www.cannon-cannon.com

Farmers National Bank — Page 63

fax 270-842-8198

Providing residential, commercial, construction, and industrial solid waste hauling services. Exclusive residential waste service provider for the City of Bowling Green.

1143 Fairway St., Ste. 104 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-781-9202 www.worktherapeutics.com

fax 270-781-9072

We are an independently owned and operated physical therapy company specializing in work injury management and work injury prevention. Our services benefit individuals, employers, and the community at large.

Health & Fitness

Hot Yoga Bowling Green — Page 44 730 Fairview Avenue, Suite C-2 Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-793-0011 HotYogaBG@yahoo.com www.hotyogabowlinggreen.com

Hot Yoga utilizes yoga postures, deep breathing, and controlled movement in a heated/humidified studio with purified air for health & relaxation. Hot Yoga is much more than a workout — much more than just yoga.

The ULTIMATE fitness experience!

www.bgchamber.com | 71

index of advertisers Work Therapeutics — Page 29, 49 1143 Fairway St., Ste. 104 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-781-9202 www.worktherapeutics.com

fax 270-781-9072

A physical therapy company dedicated to helping companies and their employees eliminate work injuries, disability, and the cost to both.

Heating & Cooling

Lyons Service Company — Page 26 2721 Pioneer Drive Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-781-8793 www.lyonsservicecompany.com

Hotels/Motels/Bed-&-Breakfasts

Baymont Inn- Bowling Green KY — Page 6 165 Three Springs Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-843-3200 www.baymontinns.com

Candlewood Suites - Bowling Green KY — Page 6 fax 270-843-5506

Candlewood Suites is the guest-preferred leader in extended stay and the official hotel of the Bowling Green Hot Rods. We feature a full kitchen in every suite as well as many signature amenities.

Hilton Garden Inn - Bowling Green KY — Page 13 1020 Wilkinson Trace Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-781-6778 www.bowlinggreen.stayhgi.com

fax 270-781-6998

• 100% Smoke Free • Complimentary High-Speed Internet Access • In-room refrigerator, coffee maker, microwave • 32" HD Flat Screen Television • Restaurant, Lounge, Room Service • Fitness Center, Indoor Pool, Indoor Whirlpool • Function Space

fax 270-842-9585

Ramada Inn Crossroads Restaurant & Lounge fax 270-782-2591

Human Resources Management

Southern Kentucky Society For Human Resource Management fax 270-842-1358

Professional organization providing networking and development opportunities for local Human Resource professionals. Meetings held 4th Thursday of each month.

Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. Affiliate of SHRM.

Industrial Supply

B & M Industrial Supply — Page 66 26 Corporate Court Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-4916 254 Commerce Court Hopkinsville, KY 42240 270-885-0154

Bowling Green Machine & Welding Company fax 270-846-4086

• General Machine Work & Welding • Portable Align Boring • Portable Welding • DriveShaft Service • CNC Machining & Burning • Steel Sales

525 Central Court Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-842-6492

2800 Pioneer Drive P.O. Box 8500 Bowling Green, KY 42101-4053 270-781-5440 www.lord.com

CGS Machine & Tool, Inc. — Page 21

SCA is a global consumer goods and paper company that produces personal care products, tissue, packaging solutions, and publication papers. At the beginning of 2009, SCA had approximately 50,000 employees.

5557 Nashville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-781-9777 www.stoody.com

fax 270-782-7478

fax 270-563-4439

fax 270-781-4714

fax 270-782-7170

Established in 1981, a producer of the highest-quality iced cakes, baked cakes, and frozen dough products for in-store bakeries.

Fruit of the Loom, Inc. — Page 62

Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. — Page 23 fax 270-745-9639

Helping to enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets.

fax 270-886-7654

Visit us at one of our two locations. Call us for a line card or catalog.

72 | Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce

NonProfit

President’s Club-Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce — Page 2 710 College St. P.O. Box 51 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-781-3200 www.bgchamber.com

fax 270-843-0458

The President’s Club was formed in 1998 to recognize Chamber partners who generously contribute to the economic development efforts of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.

Occupational Screening

Occupational Screening & Health Associates — Page 66 905 Lovers Lane, Ste. 100 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-746-0505 gail_mcguffey@bellsouth.net www.occupationalscreening.net

fax 270-746-0501

• Drug Test • Breath Alcohol Test • Physicals • Third Party Administrator • Random Pulls • DNA’s

948 Elm St. Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-745-0698 Toll-free 888-745-0067

fax 270-745-0067

fax 270-846-3318

165 Natchez Trace, Suite 100 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-782-7800 www.wkona.net

fax 270-783-5215

Western Kentucky Orthopaedic & Neurosurgical Associates offers MRI, Physical & Occupational Therapy, and Bone Density Screening. All the physicians are board certified and stay current with up-to-date techniques and trends in their field.

Pools & Spas

AquaLand Pool, Spa & Patio 1260 Campbell Lane, Suite 100 Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-8981 aqualand@aqualand-pools.com www.aqualand-pools.com

fax 270-781-5655

AquaLand Pool, Spa and Patio has been South Central Kentucky’s premier dealer of premium pools and spas for over 25 years.

YOUR FUN IS OUR BUSINESS!

Real Estate

A Gwynn Stewart Realty — Page Inside Front Cover 1314 Richland Drive Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-843-9111 gstew0407@aol.com

fax 270-843-1877

Through education and experience we have successfully networked attorneys, lenders, inspectors, etc. to make your move a smooth, economical, and joyous experience. We truly consider our clients as family.

Coldwell Banker Legacy Real Estate Group Verice & Gene England Verice cell 270-791-4930 Gene cell 270-791-8402 Toll-free (800) 543-2083 ext. 119 vericeandgene@coldwellbanker.com www.vericeandgene.com

The Animal Lover’s Real Estate Professionals, The “2 for 1” Team, are multi-million dollar producers specializing in homes, homes with acreage, farms, and land. Let our experience go to work for you!

Restaurants

Buckhead Cafe & Bakery — Page 3

760 Campbell Lane in Buckhead Square Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-846-0110 fax 270-781-0498 rkelley@mariahs.com www.buckheadcafe.net

Buckhead Cafe is a fast-casual restaurant in popular Buckhead Square. The menu includes pizzas and wraps from the wood-fired oven, panini sandwiches, burgers, fresh salads, and delicious homemade desserts.

Mariah’s Restaurant — Page 3 P.O. Box 1802 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-842-6878 rkelley@mariahs.com www.mariahs.com

fax 270-781-0498

Mariah’s is located downtown in Bowling Green’s oldest brick home. Casual atmosphere and dining featuring wood-fired brick oven, fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, hand-cut steaks, and homemade desserts.

Aaron’s Sales & Lease Ownership — Page 66 709 31-W ByPass Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-783-4200 f110@aaronrents.com www.aarons.com

fax 270-783-8700

• Appliances • Electronics • Home Furnishings • Brand Names for Less • No Credit Checks • Everyone Pre-approved • 120 Days Same As Cash • Like Leasing a Car...Only Better DO THE MATH, NOBODY BEATS AARON’S!

Paint Store

PPG Porter Paint

1495 Campbell Lane Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-3560

1830 Destiny Lane, Suite 110 Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-846-3338 afacpsc@bellsouth.net www.mykentuckypodiatrist.com

Sales & Leasing

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Jerry E. Cohron, DMD, MS — Page 49 fax 270-438-1155

Fruit of the Loom is a leading international, vertically integrated basic apparel company. The company manufactures underwear, casualwear, childrenswear, printable tees and fleece for the activewear industry, and athletic gear. An independent, wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire-Hathaway, Inc. 151 Turner Court P.O. Box 1839 Bowling Green, KY 42102-1839 270-842-3319 www.hillspet.com

fax 270-842-9436

Royal Music has served families in Kentucky for 63 years.

Through our experienced staff, our mission is to provide quality instruments, music, lessons, and service to the people of our area.

Manufacturer of sunshades, dash insulators, and other interior products for the automotive industry.

One Fruit of the Loom Drive P.O. Box 90015 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-781-6400 www.fruit.com

fax 270-843-4248

Music 1023 State Street P.O. Box 866 Bowling Green, KY 42102-0866 270-842-9435 royalmus@bellsouth.net www.royalmusic.biz

American Howa Kentucky, Inc. — Page 29

2840 Pioneer Drive Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-782-3200

fax 270-796-3181

Royal Music Company, Inc. — Page 61

AEP’s Printed / Converted Products Division delivers a fully integrated packaging solution to markets such as food, beverage, health and beauty, pet care, and industrial.

Processes include co-extrusion blown film, flexographic printing, lamination, slitting, and bag making.

445 Jody Richards Drive Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-563-4400

fax 270-842-1358

SCA Personal Care — Page 28

fax 270-783-4237

• Tool and Die • Conventional Machining • CNC Turning • CNC Milling • Wire EDM • Fabricating/Certified Welders • Special Machine Building • 2 Shifts • 24-Hour Emergency Service

123 Williamette Lane Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-782-8026 www.aepinc.com

fax 270-393-2172

Our team-based workforce of more than 140 employees produce high-quality bonded elastomer assemblies that manage shock, vibration, noise, and motion for equipment and the transportation industries.

7030 Louisville Road P.O. Box 90022 Bowling Green, KY 42102-9022 270-796-9300 www.sca.com

Physicians/Surgeons

Associated Foot and Ankle Clinics, P.S.C. — Page 49

Western KY Orthopaedic & Neurosurgical Associates — Page 47

Kobe Aluminum Automotive Products, LLC — Page 21

Stoody Thermadyne Industries — Page 26

Country Oven Bakery — Page 17

New Serta Beds and Furniture • Fridge and Microwave in All Rooms • 32” Flat Plasma TV with HBO in some rooms • Nightly Entertainment • Restaurant and Lounge • Free Home Cooked Breakfast • Wireless Internet • Exercise Room • Pets Allowed for a fee

760 Campbell Lane, Suite 106 PMB 124 Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-5440 x118

fax 270-843-6351

Machine/Welding

2750 Griffin Drive Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-783-3589 steve@cgsmachine.com www.cgsmachine.com

International Paper is a diversified integrated forest products company. Our facility in Bowling Green produces corrugated shipping containers for manufacturing in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana.

Lord Corporation — Page 26

Bowling Green’s oldest and finest jewelry store. On Fountain Square since 1881. Quality diamond jewelry at a fair price. Appraisals, custom designs and on-site repair (laser welding).

119 St. Charles Avenue Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-842-9560 mmabgmach@aol.com

fax 270-783-3700

Aluminum suspension for the automobile industry.

Barron Enterprises, Inc. Morris Jewelry — Page 57 408 E Main St Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-6103 www.morrisjewelrybg.com

5150 Nashville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-783-3600 www.internationalpaper.com

Manufacturing

Bowling Green’s largest hotel is in a class by itself.

Featuring 218 spacious rooms and suites, the Hartland Cafe and the Atrium Lounge, Holiday Inn is the perfect place to send your overnight guests.

I-65 Exit 22 4767 Scottsville Road Bowling Green, kY 42104 270-781-3000 ramadainnbgky@msn.com www.ramadainnbowlinggreen.com

Jewelers

AEP Industries, Inc. — Page 23

Holiday Inn University Plaza — Page 20 1021 Wilkinson Trace Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-745-0088 www.hibowlinggreen.com

fax 270-842-1404

Call us for any of your insurance & financial needs.

• Auto • Home • Life • Health Insurance & Financial Products • Plus, We Offer 24-Hour Good Neighbor Service

fax 270-782-6999

Listening to our guests and treating them like neighbors is what we do best. Discover true hometown hospitality at Baymont Inn & Suites. Offering complimentary breakfast, wireless Internet, and more.

540 Wall St. Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-843-5505 www.candlewoodsuitesbg.com

2317 Russellville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-842-8154 patti.dillard.b1nm@statefarm.com www.pattidillard.com

fax 270-781-8401

Scheduled maintenance and emergency repairs on mechanical heating and cooling equipment. Installation of building automation controls. Repair of process chillers and broilers. Serving the industrial, commercial, school, and healthcare markets.

International Paper — Page 22

Insurance

State Farm Agent - Patricia Dillard

fax 270-796-2937

Painting Green with PPG. Improving both outdoor and indoor air quality is a key component of PPG. We are committed to providing a broad range of paint products with zero - or low - VOCs.

Security Systems / Bank Equipment

AAA Systems — Page 39 1101 Shive Lane Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-842-1443 frank@aaasystems.com www.aaasystems.com

fax 270-746-9011

Specializing in the design, sales, and installation of security, bank, and communications equipment. We carry the following products: Security and Fire Alarms, CCTV, Access Control, Telephones, Data and Fiber Cabling, Safes, ATMs, Drive-Up Units, Vaults, Depositories, Bullet-Resistant Glass, and much more.

Storage 1945 Scottsville Road, Suite B2 PMB 359 Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-9999 fax 270-781-8888 www.uswarehousing.com

US Warehousing is a full-service warehouse and distribution operation with multiple locations in the Bowling Green Area.

Telecommunications

Bluegrass Cellular — Page 58

1661 Campbell Lane Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-8999 1355 Veterans Memorial Lane, Suite 102 (Oxford Center) Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-393-0355 www.bluegrasscellular.com

Bluegrass Cellular is the area’s only locally owned and operated wireless carrier, offering coverage where you live, work, and play in central Kentucky and now in southern Indiana.

Comstar Systems — Page 23

• Access Control • Cable TV • Closed-Circuit TV • Fire Alarm • Fire Extinguishers • Kitchen Hood Systems • Master Clocks • Computer Networks • Nurse Call • Public Access • Pro Sound • Telephone • Video • Data • Media Management

106 E. Wayne St. P.O. Box 515 Glasgow, KY 42142-0515 270-651-5597 www.startel.ws

fax 270-659-7829

• C-TAP Program • IP-VoIP Telecommunications • Remote Office Connectivity • Centralized System Management • Integrated Voice Mail • School Intercom/Clock/Paging • CCTV/MATV/CATV • Nurse Call/Patient Location

Tent Rental

US Warehousing — Page 28

944 Searcy Way Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-781-7076 comstar@bellsouth.net www.comstarsystems.com

Star*Tel Systems, Inc. — Page 53

fax 270-782-6076

Bowling Green Tent Rental — Page 66 2932 Crossridge Court Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-7368 bgtrbt@aol.com www.bgtentrental.com

fax 270-781-7688

Whatever the occasion, we’ve got you covered.

• Graduations • Family Reunions • Weddings • Receptions • Parties • Revivals • Real Estate & Cattle Auctions

Transportation

Community Action of Southern Kentucky — Page 13 921 Beauty Avenue P.O. Box 90014 Bowling Green, KY 42102-9014 270-782-3162 www.casoky.org/transportation

fax 270-842-5735

Community Action of Southern Kentucky operates GO bg transit for the City of Bowling Green. Public transit bus routes operate within city limits and GO, too, provides doorto-door transportation for persons with disabilities.

FedEx Ground — Page 60 155 Flex Park Drive S. Industrial Park Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-781-6480 www.fedex.com

fax 270-781-8073

index of advertisers Utilities

Vision

Bowling Green Municipal Utilities — Page 16 801 Center Street P.O. Box 10300 Bowling Green, KY 42102-7300 270-782-1200 www.bgmu.com

Downing-McPeak Vision Centers — Page 44 1403 Andrea Circle Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-781-4909 www.downing-mcpeak.com

fax 270-843-9678

Bowling Green Municipal Utilities is your hometown utility, providing water, wastewater treatment, electric, and commercial high-speed data services to our community.

Full-service ophthalmology and optometry practice offering complete eye exams, medical and surgical treatment of cataracts and glaucoma, diabetic eye care, refractive procedures such as LASIK and CK, and a full optical shop with the latest fashions.

Tennessee Valley Authority

Love and Warden Eye Care

6045 Russellville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101-7319 270-846-7040 www.tva.com

fax 270-846-7045

Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is a federal corporation, the nation’s largest public power provider, a steward of the Tennessee River basin, a national center for environmental research, and an economic development agency for parts of seven states.

Warren County Water District — Page 17 523 US Hwy 31-W Bypass P.O. Box 10180 Bowling Green, KY 42102 270-842-0052 info@warrenwater.com www.warrenwater.com

fax 270-796-6072

Providing comprehensive eye care for the entire family.

Diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases and injuries.

Contact lens evaluations. Licensed optician to assist with the best frames and lenses for your prescription and budget.

Visitor Information fax 270-842-8360

Warren Water is recognized across the state and nationally for the professionalism and progressive approach we bring to providing clean, safe drinking water and reliable sewer services at affordable prices. Warren Water delivers quality and commitment in every drop.

Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corp. — Page 17 951 Fairview Ave. P.O. Box 1118 Bowling Green, KY 42102-1118 270-842-6541 www.wrecc.com

Dr. Tammy H. Love Dr. Trina R. Warden 1256 Campbell Lane, Suite 106 Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-796-6021 www.loveandwardeneyecare.com

fax 270-781-3299

District offices in Bowling Green, Franklin, Leitchfield, and Morgantown. For over 70 years, Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation, a member-owned utility, has been dedicated to improving the quality of life of its over 60,000 member-owners.

Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau — Page 61 352 Three Springs Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-782-0800 info@visitbgky.com www.visitbgky.com

fax 270-842-2104

Staffed information center with maps and brochures. Gift Shop with Bowling Green souvenirs and Kentucky-made products. Convention services available: registration assistance, name tags, welcome bags, VIP gifts.

Bowling Green & South Central Kentucky | 2011 Edition

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce | CommunityLink

Front Cover

75 YEARS

Bowling Green Area Chamber celebrates its diamond anniversary

Corvette Country National Corvette Museum a destination for fans of America’s Sports Car