bowling green, ky 2012 community profile
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Bowling Green, KY 2012 Community ProfileTRANSCRIPT
chapter header
Cover
,
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 – Marketing & Communications Director 710 College St., P.O. Box 51, Bowling Green, KY 42102
Phone 270-781-3200, Fax 270-843-0458U.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 © 2012 Craig Williams Creative, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
2 0 1 2 E d i t i o na CommunityLink Publication
VP of Production OperationsAmanda White
Director of Publication DesignKelly Friederich
Managing EditorLaura Wilcoxen
Contributing WritersMark Allen, David Ballard,
Katie Beard, Jennifer Bull, Betsy Cooksey, Jay Nehrkorn, Alan Palmer, Laura Wilcoxen
ProofreaderChristina Reese
Photography Coordinator/ Content Consultant
Jay Nehrkorn
PhotographyClinton Lewis, Alex Nottmeir, Devin Miller, Gary Berdeaux
Cover PhotoProvided by WKU
Additional Images Provided byBowling Green Area
Chamber of Commerce, Bowling Green Technical College,
Bowling Green Western Symphony Orchestra, ApacePak, Inc.,
Greenville Regional Hospital, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Bowling Green
Christian Academy
Lead DesignKelly Friederich
Director of GISAimee Garcia Wheatley
Website Creation & SupportJosh Chandler
Director of Media PurchasingDiana Vaughn
Director of Business DevelopmentGeorge Prudhomme
Director of Outside SalesDebbie Moss
Marketing SpecialistShawna Williams
Business Development ManagerBonnie Ebers
Customer Service DirectorKathy Risley
Ad ResearchMary Kopshever, Mildred Walker
Ad TrafficCarol Smith
Ad DesignMindy BrockJosh MuellerKacey Wolters
Administrative SupportKathy Hagene, Carol Smith
Account SupportTerri Ahner, Tricia Cannedy
Human Resources AssistantTeresa Craig
Mailroom TechnicianMelinda Bowlin
Publishing Systems SpecialistChristopher Miller
Chief Financial OfficerRhonda Harsy
Chairman and FounderCraig Williams
www.bgchamber.com 3
table of contents
What’s Inside2012 Edition
overviewChairman’s Comments ........................................ 6
Region’s Assets .................................................. 8
community profileThe Bowling Green Area by the Numbers ............ 12
community spiritHelping Hands................................................. 14
governmentHearing From Our Elected Leaders .................... 17
utilitiesGrowing Greener .............................................. 19
business & industryExpanding Enterprise ....................................... 23
New Business Locations ................................... 26
2nd Saturdays ................................................. 27
Central Region ICC ........................................... 28
Entrepreneurship ............................................. 30
educationA Strong Talent Pool......................................... 34
What’s New at WKU.......................................... 35
Bowling Green Technical College ....................... 36
Public Schools ................................................ 37
Private Schools ............................................... 38
Growing Effective Leaders................................. 39
real estateResidential Real Estate .................................... 41
Commercial Real Estate ................................... 42
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Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce4
table of contents
healthcareHigh-Quality Care ............................................ 44The Medical Center .......................................... 45Graves-Gilbert Clinic ........................................ 46Greenview Regional Hospital ............................ 47Specialized Healthcare .................................... 48Healthier Workplaces ....................................... 49Working for Wellness ........................................ 50Retiring in South Central Kentucky .................... 51
worshipChurch-School Connections .............................. 53Area Congregations .......................................... 54
entertainment & cultureSKyPAC ....................................................... 56Area Orchestras ............................................... 57Sesquicentennial Events................................... 58Festivals & Events ............................................ 59
recreation & tourismTourism on the Rise ......................................... 62Underground Wonderlands ................................ 63Corvette Museum ............................................. 64Right on Target ................................................ 64South Central Kentucky Attractions ................... 65Bowling Green Hot Rods ................................... 66Top 5 for ’12 ................................................... 66South Central Kentucky Public Parks & Recreation Centers .................... 67
index of advertisersIndex of Advertisers & Preferred Businesses ....... 68
www.bgchamber.com 5
overview
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce6
overview
Landmark Engineering offers a broadrange of design services, including: • Civil Engineering • Land Surveying • Transportation Engineering • Materials Testing • Land Planning • Landscape Architecture
I t is with great pleasure
that I serve as the Bowling
Green Area Chamber
of Commerce Board of
Directors’ chairman. This 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. I am honored to be a
part of this nationally recognized organization and look forward to a pro-
ductive, successful year in 2012.
The pride I feel for our Chamber extends into the city of Bowling Green,
Warren County, and South Central Kentucky. We are a unique community,
one that is focused on the future and that approaches any project with a
“can do” attitude. Like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce,
our community has been recognized nationally. From being a finalist for
the All-American Cities Awards, given by the National Civic League, to
being named one of the best places to live and play by National Geographic
Adventure, our city is one that gets noticed.
Flip through the pages of this magazine and you’ll find even more rea-
sons why people live, work, and play in Bowling Green and South Central
Kentucky. You’ll discover why companies decide to locate, expand, and
remain in our region. You’ll find out why many people come to visit and
end up staying forever. And you’ll read about our ‘i love bg’ campaign — a
grassroots effort to capture and grow residents’ pride in Bowling Green —
as well as our downtown redevelopment projects, which include a state-of-
the-art minor league baseball park and the new South Kentucky Performing
Arts Center. These are just a few of the aspects that make ours a thriving
community, a place for you to call home.
D. Gaines Penn
2012 Chairman of the Board of Directors
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Chairman’s CommentsBuilding Talent. Leading Innovation.
From being a finalist for the All-American Cities
Awards, given by the National Civic League, to
being named one of the best places to live and
play by National Geographic Adventure, our city is
one that gets noticed.
overview
In 2011, Forbes magazine recognized Bowling Green for the metropolitan area’s positive busi-ness environment once again. The city is listed as No. 5 in the magazine’s “Best Small Places
for Business and Careers” on www.forbes.com. Bowling Green climbed 28 spots in the annual list, having been ranked No. 33 in 2010. It is the No. 1 southeastern U.S. location on the list.
With a 10-county regional economic develop-ment partnership, South Central Kentucky is the ideal location for expanding and new businesses. The region is home to worldwide headquarters operations, startup companies, and the full spec-trum in between. South Central Kentucky’s assets set the region apart from the rest.
Business SuccessThe General Motors Corvette Assembly plant
and the corporate headquarters of Camping World, Fruit of the Loom Inc., Logan Aluminum, and Houchens Industries have chosen to locate and
grow in South Central Kentucky. They are just a few of the companies that thrive here, and existing and new businesses find that the region’s assets make it easy to do business.
The region’s growth is evidence that companies are willing to invest here. In 2011, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated new and expanding business announcements totaling more than $193 million in capital investment with 803 new jobs. In 2010, Bowling Green was ranked No. 3 in the nation for communities under 200,000 population for projects and job creation by Site Selector Magazine, with 21 projects and more than 1,600 new jobs created. The Bowling Green Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is ranked in the top 25 percent of MSAs for economic development efforts by gross domestic product.
LocationSouth Central Kentucky is within 100 miles
of the eastern U.S. population center and within a
day’s drive of more than 185 million U.S. residents (more than 60 percent of the total population). Located conveniently on Interstate 65 between Louisville, Ky., and Nashville, Tenn., the region is a central location that has easy access to northern and southern U.S. business facilities.
PopulationSouth Central Kentucky has a population of
more than 284,000 and a labor force of nearly 138,000. From 2000 to 2010, the growth rate was 11.4 percent, which was higher than the Kentucky and national growth rates. Bowling Green, the third-largest city in Kentucky, is the region’s metropolitan hub, with a labor force of nearly 65,000.
Low Business CostsAccording to www.Economy.com’s June 2010
edition of North American Business Cost Review, Bowling Green was ranked in the top 7 percent of 384 metropolitan areas for lowest overall business
Region’s AssetsBy ChamBer of CommerCe Staff
The ideal location for businesses.
8 Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Bowling Green is listed as No. 5 in Forbes
magazine’s “Best Small Places for Business and
Careers” list.
www.bgchamber.com 9
overview
cost. These low costs are supported by a cost of living that is 10 percent lower than the national average and a low tax burden.
WorkforceResidents of South Central Kentucky are part
of a skilled workforce that demonstrates a work ethic rarely seen in other areas of the United States, thereby creating high productivity in businesses. Labor output in Kentucky is 1.9 percent above the national average. Ongoing employee training is encouraged with programs that cover up to 65 percent of training costs incurred.
South Central Kentucky’s businesses have ready access to workforce training. Western Kentucky University is the fastest-growing university in Kentucky, and it offers ABET-accredited engineering programs in civil, electrical, and mechanical engi-neering. Bowling Green Technical College, part of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (the nation’s fastest-growing technical college system), provides workforce training and degrees in a variety of fields along with international certifications.
GovernmentSouth Central Kentucky is governed by dedi-
cated officials who understand the value of busi-ness. Through state incentive packages, coupled with local incentives, the region provides a stable working environment with quality relationships between government and business.
Recreation & EntertainmentSouth Central Kentucky is made up of a group
of diverse counties and communities working together to provide a great life for all. To enhance the quality of life here, there are numerous oppor-tunities for recreation and entertainment. From the world’s largest cave system to America’s sports car mecca, South Central Kentucky offers some-thing for everyone. Bowling Green is home to the Bowling Green Hot Rods AA Baseball Team, an affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, and the state-of-the-art Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center, scheduled to open in March 2012.
Just a few of these entertainment opportuni-ties are Beech Bend Amusement Park, Mammoth Cave National Park, Barren River Lake, the National Corvette Museum, Aviation Heritage Park, the Historic L&N Depot, and much more!
Labor output in Kentucky is 1.9
percent above the national average.
Ongoing employee training is
encouraged with programs that cover
up to 65 percent of training costs
incurred.
10 Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
overview
Innovation and technology are part of everyday living in South Central Kentucky. A hub of this activity is found at Western Kentucky University’s Center for Research & Development, which houses WKU’s Applied Research Centers, the WKU Small Business Development Center, and the Central Region Innovation & Commercialization Center, as well as the WKU Small Business Accelerator — currently home to 19 technology-based businesses.
Within the Center for Research & Development is the Nondestructive Analysis (NOVA) Center, wherein lies one of the world’s largest Large Chamber Scanning Electron Microscopes (LC-SEM). The NOVA Center is the only facility of its kind at a North American University, and WKU is the only university in North America to house such an LC-SEM.
Just a few of the companies that are displaying innovative techniques in South Central Kentucky include:
• Geo Thermal Supply Company, which produces geothermal products including polyethylene pipe, prefabricated vaults, and pump stations. It is the first company to design and build the polyethylene vault used in the geothermal industry, and Geo Thermal Supply has built several other unique products for the industry, including pump stations, large air removal pumping systems, and testing equipment. Also, the company has been instrumental in the design and manufacturing of ice rink header systems and has developed new polyethylene products, such as a vault for the water and wastewater industry.
• HeathCo, which manufactures quality door chimes, motion-activated lighting, and lighting controls under the Heath Zenith® brand. In the first six months of 2011, the company received five patents and launched several new products: a high-output, LED-based, motion-detecting light fixture at Lowe’s; a lighting control device that uses a smart phone application at Lowe’s and Sears, and through LiftMaster dealers; and a solar-powered, high-output motion security light at Home Depot.
• Hitcents, which originally produced website advertising, has achieved success in many markets: Web design, technology, hardware and software development, marketing and branding, and strategy. In August 2007 Hitcents was named to the Inc. 500 list of fastest-growing companies in America. Also that year, owners Chris and Clinton Mills were named to the Inc. 5,000 CEOs Under 30 list. The company has developed a Web-based management system, Omniprise, designed to provide customized customer service solutions through an all-encompassing software system that supports a streamlined approach to data management. The CRM is available by iPhone and iPad applications as well.
• Pure Power Technologies, LLC, which produces emissions-control devices, valves, and actuators for diesel engines, priding itself in its leadership in the design, development, and series production of high-precision air-management and emissions-controls devices. Pure Power Technologies holds two U.S. patents, five provisional patents, and three records of invention. The company has expanded its product portfolio from two platforms (intake throttle and EGR valve) to six platforms (including thermal management valves, engine brakes, coolant flow devices, stand-alone/independent actuator devices).
• Quick Fuel Technology, which manufactures fuel systems products: carburetors, fuel pumps and regulators, carburetor rebuild kits, and carburetor small parts. In 2008, the company began producing carburetors that operate with E-85 Ethanol fuel, a cleaner-burning, low-emissions fuel, and has started offering E-85 calibrated carburetors for drag race, circle track, and street applications.
Innovation & Technology
community profile
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce12
community profile
The Bowling Green Area by the Numbers
3 Bowling Green is the 3rd-largest city in Kentucky
1 Bowling Green’s rank among “Best Weekend Getaways,” as voted on by readers of Kentucky Living
Bowling Green’s spot on Site Selection’s 2010 list of cities with the highest number of industry locations3
4Years in a row Bowling Green has been among the top 35 on the Forbes list of “Best Small Places for Business and Careers”
Bowling Green’s ranking among 184 small cities on Forbes’ 2011 list of the “Best Small Places for Business and Careers”
five
Stars of Accreditation held by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce5
nineKentucky has the 9th-lowest cost of doing business among the 50 states per Economy.com’s June 2010 North American Business Cost Review
6 Number of 2011 regional economic development projects participated in by the Bowling Green Area Chamber
Graduating high school seniors to receive the Work Ethic Seal from the Bowling Green Area Chamber in 2011
seventy
96% Three-year growth rate by Bowling Green company BlueCotton, landing them on the 2011 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies
164New Bowling Green Area Chamber partners in 2011
803New and retained jobs announced in 2011 by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
seven thousand +Number of inquires about Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky answered annually by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Corvettes produced at the GM Bowling Green plant in 2010
15,791
42,296 U.S. Census Bureau 2000 population for Bowling Green
58,067U.S. Census Bureau 2010 population for Bowling Green
235,412Home game tickets sold by the Bowling Green Hot Rods in 2010
$193 millionAmount of capital investment in South Central Kentucky in 2011
2nd Western Kentucky University is the second-largest university in the Commonwealth of Kentucky
30Languages spoken in the Bowling Green Independent Schools and Warren County Public Schools districts
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community spirit
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce14
community spirit
Building a better community is the work of many, not few. South Central Kentucky is fortunate to have several organizations and individuals working to make the region a
better place for all.
“i love bg”Walk down any street in Bowling Green and
you’re likely to spot an “i love bg” poster, decal, or button. The campaign is the brainchild of Leon Volkert, owner of the Fairfield Inn, who worked on Bowling Green’s application to be an All-America city.
“Bowling Green offers a great quality of life, and the people who live here can’t seem to say enough good things about it,” Volkert said. “I thought it would be a good thing to spread the word about what a great city we live in.”
Volkert’s idea soon became a logo for busi-nesses to use on letterheads, marquees, promotional materials, and websites. The Bowling Green Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has distributed more than 5,000 “i love bg” buttons and encourages everyone who wears them to share their apprecia-tion for the city. The campaign has evolved into a collective effort, with the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Redevelopment Authority, Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky, Western Kentucky University, and Werkshop Marketing helping to spread the love. BlueCotton keeps the ball rolling with T-shirts, hats, stickers, and other items. June 4 became “i love bg Day” with a celebration at Bowling Green Ballpark and retailers and restaurants offering ‘i love bg’ dis-counts and promotions.
Marissa Butler, public relations director at the Bowling Green Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, says the response to “i love bg” has been overwhelmingly positive from residents, visitors, and businesses.
“We expect it will become an ongoing symbol the city can use for sustainable efforts and other causes,” she said.
For more information, visit www.iheartbg.com.
SKyPACIn March 2012, Bowling Green celebrates the
opening of SKyPAC, a stellar, state-of-the-art per-forming and visual arts facility. SKyPAC seeks to
welcome and involve the community not only as audience members, but as active participants and learners in the arts. The public will be welcome to use the facilities, and outreach programs sponsored through SKyPAC will bring the arts out of the audito-rium and into the community.
Indeed, central to the planning of this community facility has been bringing the community into the planning. Residents were invited to vote for the open-ing night act, and nearly 1,500 people toured the site during the Hard Hat Tour program, held during the later stages of construction.
“SKyPAC belongs to the community — not just the Bowling Green community, but the region as well,” said Executive Director Tom Tomlinson. “It is human nature to embrace what we help to create.”
Director of Development and Marketing Dawn McGriff says that keeping SKyPAC facilities available to the public is a priority, and that staff will work to support other community groups as well.
“We will keep the Visual Arts Gallery and the Lobby open with seating, free WiFi access, and light concessions any time the Ticket Office is open,” she said. “We will support other arts and performance groups by serving as their ticket office if they desire.”
Community arts education is also a focus.“We have an education and community outreach
director who has already initiated partnerships with schools, the local Housing Authority, the Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and others,” McGriff said.
Studies have shown that a thriving arts environ-ment is a strong draw for new businesses and resi-dents, and McGriff says that SKyPAC will also actively work to help promote South Central Kentucky.
“We hope to be good partners with the Chamber of Commerce and the Convention and Visitors Bureau. We will actively participate in their existing programs, not only as a marketing tool for SKyPAC, but also in ways that ensure success for all.”
Miss Kentucky Ann-Blair ThorntonBowling Green’s own Ann-Blair Thornton is tak-
ing a break from her studies at Western Kentucky University to travel the state as Miss Kentucky 2011. According to her father, Steve, Ann-Blair has been competing in pageants since she was 15, but seeing her crowned Miss Kentucky as the hometown girl from Bowling Green was a thrill for the entire city.
In addition to preparing for the Miss America pageant, Ann-Blair is the spokesperson for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s “Kentucky Proud” program (www.kyproud.com), encourag-ing consumers of all ages to purchase products produced in Kentucky. Additionally, contestants in the Miss America pageant choose a platform to pro-mote. Thornton has chosen Alzheimer’s awareness and research. Her grandfather Lucian Thornton was diagnosed with the disease in 2004 and passed away in 2009.
After she completes her reign, Thornton plans to return to college and complete her double major in English and Economics before going on to law school.
Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky
Helping you make a difference…Forever!The Community Foundation of South Central
Kentucky was established in 1995 to encourage philanthropic giving by providing a common source for contributions to charity and other community concerns. The foundation is a tax-exempt public charity that allows people to establish permanent endowment funds. The grants produced from these funds help meet current and emerging needs.
The Family Enrichment Center was one of 15 Community Foundation grant recipients in 2011.
Helping HandsLeaving a legacy upon which future generations can build.
By amanda KnoleS
www.bgchamber.com 15
community spirit
Jennifer Wethington, executive director, says the foundation donates between $30,000 and $40,000 in grants each year.
“In the last five years alone, the foundation has provided more than $165,000 through 91 grants to area nonprofits.”
The flexibility of the Community Foundation allows donors to support multiple charities through their fund, while creating a personal legacy that makes a difference forever.
The foundation is governed by an all-volunteer board of directors who understand the needs of the community and are dedicated to addressing those needs through grants in education, health, human services, arts, public recreation, and beautification.
“The Community Foundation can help donors learn more about local organizations and programs that make a difference in their area of interest,” Wethington explained. “We look forward to build-ing a lasting resource by helping others give to their charitable interests while making an impact for generations to come.”
Chuck’s United Hope FoundationChuck’s United Hope Foundation
(www.chucksunitedhopefoundation.org) supports charitable organizations and provides help to individuals and families facing extreme hardships. It all began when United Package Liquors, a chain in Indianapolis, began collecting donations at its 22 retail stores. All donations were matched dollar for dollar and given to local families and charities. In 2005 the United Hope Foundation
was created, and more than $800,000 has been distributed to needy families and organizations in central Indiana.
Through the years Chuck’s Liquor Outlets also got involved with a variety of philanthropic projects. In April 2010 United Package Liquors acquired Chuck’s Liquor Outlets in Bowling Green, and the new venture allowed United Hope Foundation to extend its charitable mission into Kentucky.
Since August 2010, Chuck’s United Hope Foundation has donated over $10,000 to families and charities in South Central Kentucky. The foun-dation has supported organizations including Barren River Child Advocacy Center and Pink Tee Party for Breast Cancer and continues to support those in need by collecting donations in the Chuck’s stores.
“Our goal is to provide assistance to individuals, families, and other organizations serving those who desperately need help when hope seems lost,” said Director Suzanne Storer.
Hospitality HouseHospitality House, located on the Medical
Center at Bowling Green campus, offers families a safe and inviting place to stay while loved ones are hospitalized with long-term illnesses. The home-like environment, where guests can sleep, rest, and eat, is designed to provide comfort and convenience for families who are dealing with stress, anxiety, and everyday demands while trying to maintain regular visits to the hospital.
Commonwealth Health Foundation, along with The Medical Center and Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital, raised over $3.8 million to build the facility. Open to guests since January 2010, the
complex includes 12 private guestrooms and baths, a large kitchen and dining room, an attractively furnished community room, a prayer room, and a business center with computers and Internet access. There is no charge to stay at Hospitality House, but donations are accepted and an endowment has been established to ensure its ongoing operation.
“We are truly grateful to those in the com-munity who have provided the financial support to make Hospitality House a reality,” said Connie Smith, CEO of The Medical Center and COO of Commonwealth Health Corporation.
For more information on Hospitality House, visit www.hospitalityhousebg.org.
Potter Children’s HomeIn 1914, Clinton and Mary Potter, founders
of Potter Bible College, established Potter Orphan Home and School in Bowling Green, beginning the legacy of providing a loving Christian home to children in need. Known today as Potter Children’s Home and Family Ministries, the facility today provides children with family-oriented, Christian care in on-campus “foster homes” with loving foster parents. Additional services include a single-parent ministry and Christian counseling.
A capital campaign called Molding the Future is designed to expand the Single Parent Alliance for Raising Kids ministry (SPARK) through the con-struction of five SPARK triplex units.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce16
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government
www.bgchamber.com 17
government
Our Elected Representatives
U.S. SenatorsMitch McConnell 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 ....................202-224-2541 www.mcconnell.senate.gov
Rand Paul 208 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 ....................202-224-4343 www.paul.senate.gov
U.S. RepresentativeBrett Guthrie 308 Cannon H.O.B. Washington, DC 20515 ....................202-225-3501 www.guthrie.house.gov
GovernorSteve Beshear 700 Capitol Avenue, Suite 100 Frankfort, KY 40601.........................502-564-2611 www.governor.ky.gov
State SenatorMike Wilson 702 Capitol Avenue, Annex Room 203 Frankfort KY 40601 .........502-564-8100 Ext. 717 www.lrc.ky.gov/legislator/s032.htm
State RepresentativesJim DeCesare 702 Capitol Avenue, Annex Room 424G Frankfort, KY 40601.........502-564-8100 Ext. 660 www.lrc.ky.gov/legislator/h021.htm
Jody Richards 702 Capitol Avenue, Annex Room 324D Frankfort, KY 40601.........502-564-8100 Ext. 699 www.lrc.ky.gov/legislator/h020.htm
Wilson Stone 702 Capitol Avenue, Annex Room 329A Frankfort, KY 40601.........502-564-8100 Ext. 672 www.lrc.ky.gov/legislator/h022.htm
“When we branded our region as South Central Kentucky, it wasn’t just
about a logo or a slogan. We embraced the idea that 10 counties are much more
effective at marketing themselves together
rather than apart. Our regionalism has strengthened throughout the years,
and we’re seeing results, meaning more company announcements, more jobs and
more wealth for our residents.”
“I’m proud to say that many people come to visit Bowling Green for fun, and they often stay for life! From our thriving companies to our growing schools to our international reach, we’re a part of something bigger here. Bowling Green — and South Central Kentucky — has a “can-do” spirit that makes this a great place to live, work and play.”
City of Bowling Green Mayor Bruce Wilkerson
County of Warren Judge Executive Michael Buchanon
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce18
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utilities
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utilities
In 2010, Warren County Public Schools cele-brated the opening of Richardsville Elementary, the nation’s first net-zero public school build-
ing, which uses solar panels to produce more clean energy than it uses. The dedication to “green” principles demonstrated by the project extends throughout the South Central Kentucky commu-nity. Appropriately, the region’s utility companies are working hard to be part of the sustainability solution through programs that not only promote greener, more efficient energy use, but also help customers save money.
Atmos Energy sponsors two programs that reward customers for wise energy decisions: the High-Efficiency Equipment Rebate and Weatherization Assistance. The rebate is open to residential customers who purchase ENERGY STAR-rated natural gas home-heating and water-heating appliances. Tankless water heaters are eligible for up to a $300 rebate, while furnaces and tank water heaters may qualify for up to $200. Customers can go online for instructions and to download the rebate form (www.atmosenergy.com/home/efficiency/ky_rebate.html). Income-eligible Atmos Energy customers can apply for home-weatherization assistance. If they qualify, an energy auditor visits their home to inspect and determine what steps they can take to improve energy efficiency, reduce consumption, and lower their energy bills. Homeowners can earn up to $2,500 in weatherization improvements, all installed by qualified local contractors.
Atmos Energy also underwrites the creation and distribution of educational materials on energy efficiency for grade-school students. For adults, Atmos Energy provides several online tools to help manage energy use. Users can create a personalized energy-use report, get tips on energy conservation, and use the Energy Calculator to estimate how much it costs to operate home appliances per year and each appliance’s greenhouse gas emissions. Visit www.atmosenergy.com/home/energy_tips.html.
Bowling Green Municipal Utilities provides water/wastewater treatment, electric, and com-mercial high-speed data services for the Bowling Green area.
BGMU has the only “all-fiber” network in Bowling Green, offering co-location facilities, VLAN connection, Internet connection, and dark fiber leasing. Providing off-site facilities for servers
and/or backup, the co-location facility provides waterless fire suppression, a backup generator, 24/7 support, and a stable fiber-optic connection offering fast access to businesses and the Internet. State-of-the-art equipment provides the ability to change bandwidth — in many cases with a single phone call — as needs change. BGMU’s Fiber Ring uses Cisco technology to maintain 99.999 percent up-time, ensuring businesses stay connected.
Working hard to be part of the sustainability solution.
By laura WilCoxen
Growing Greener
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce20
utilities
In 2011, BGMU’s Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) received the Operational Excellence Award from the Kentucky/Tennessee Water Environment Association for calendar years 2009 and 2010 for an excellent record of compliance with their National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. BGMU’s WWTP offers a fully approved industrial pretreatment program in which trained operators work with local industries to assure that waste output complies with stan-dards for environmental protection.
Committed to renewable energy, BGMU par-ticipates in TVA’s Green Power Switch® program. Green Power Switch® is a renewable energy initiative that offers consumers a choice in the type of power they buy. TVA and BGMU, working in cooperation with the environmental commu-nity, developed Green Power Switch as a way to bring green power — electricity that’s generated by renewable resources such as solar, wind, and methane gas — to BGMU consumers.
BGMU customers can also take advantage of free Energy Efficiency Kits. Customers who complete a TVA do-it-yourself energyright home e-Valuation can benefit from the free efficiency kit, which includes valuable energy-saving tips, two compact fluorescent light bulbs, water-saving faucet aerators, hot-water temperature cards to monitor tap water temperature, and more to help minimize their energy use.
In 2010, BGMU’s Electric Department earned Reliable Public Power Provider™ (RP3) recogni-tion from the American Public Power Association for providing consumers with the highest degree of reliable, safe electric service. The RP3 recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate proficiency in four key disciplines: reliability, safety, training, and system improvement.
A new BGMU headquarters building is under construction between Center and Kentucky streets in Bowling Green. The new building, covering roughly 45,000 square feet, will undergo the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification and is to be completed by mid-2013.
Warren County Water District sponsors an innovative program to inform kids about and encourage involvement in water conservation. Annually, Warren Water partners with Warren County elementary schools during Drinking Water Week to educate students about the importance of clean drinking water. Presentations and poster contests coincide with Earth Day, making relevant the messages of water conservation and recycling.
In May 2011, Warren Water sponsored its first video public service announcement contest for local middle and high schools, giving students the opportunity to present their views on the importance of water conservation. The winning
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utilities
school received prize money and television airtime for their PSA. The winner, Drakes Creek Middle School, was praised by Alan Vilines, Warren Water general manager, for creating “an excellent PSA that embodied the spirit of Earth Day and Drinking Water Week.”
The Warren County Water District was honored for spreading the sustainability message. In 2010, Warren Water received the Public Information Award of Excellence from the American Water Works Association for the “Be Green to Keep Blue Clean” campaign. The program included school presentations, an essay/poster contest, and a media blitz focused on elementary school students.
Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation offers tools for residential and business cus-tomers to manage their power usage and costs.
Homeowners can access a variety of tools at Warren RECC’s online HomeEnergySuite (go
to www.wrecc.com and click on Home Energy Calculator). Here, users can input information that allows them to pinpoint opportunities for energy savings; access energy information and tips; and compare the energy used by various television models and light bulbs. Residential customers can also opt for an in-home energy evaluation. Recommended improvements acted upon are eligi-ble for a rebate of 50 percent of the installation cost, with a maximum of $500. Warren RECC is also a participant in the TVA’s Green Power Switch® pro-gram in support of renewable energy projects.
For industrial and commercial customers, Warren RECC offers energy audits and recommen-dations on how to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, heating and cooling systems, and electric use in general.
Warren RECC received $950,000 in Recovery Act funds that will go toward creating a smart grid
with enhanced communications. Electric custom-ers’ meters will be able to communicate with both the member and the cooperative. This will provide Warren RECC members with the tools to monitor their consumption and give them more control over how they use electricity. Warren RECC will also be able to remotely control new connects and disconnects, thereby saving fuel and improving customer service. And as time-of-use-based rates continue to evolve, energy-saving opportunities will be made available to customers who make the effort to change energy-usage habits.
For a full list of regional utilities, please visit www.southcentralky.com.
InFORmAtIOn
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce22
chapter header
business & industry
www.bgchamber.com 23
business & industry
B usinesses that make the decision to locate in South Central Kentucky soon find that the community’s com-mitment to them doesn’t end when
the ink on the lease has dried. With an outstand-ing workforce, continuing incentives, and lead-ership that works every day to foster success, businesses often find themselves growing faster than they could ever have imagined.
General Motors (GM) will invest $131 million in an upgrade of its Bowling Green manufacturing facility in preparation for produc-tion of the next-generation Chevy Corvette. The expansion is expected to create 250 new jobs at the plant, which currently employs nearly 600. The new Corvette model will debut in dealer showrooms in mid-2013.
“Kentucky has a longstanding, mutually ben-eficial relationship with GM, and this significant
investment further demonstrates the strength of our partnership,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “We appreciate GM’s continued confidence in Kentucky’s workforce and business climate.”
Plant Manager Dave Tatman says that refur-bishment at the 1 million-square-foot plant will include new manufacturing machinery, equip-ment, and tooling. The plant has produced more than 834,000 Corvettes since it began operations in Bowling Green in 1981.
“It is the crown jewel of GM assembly plants,” said Tatman. “We have a responsibility to our customers to be a world-class facility, and we are grateful for the economic assistance we have received from the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority approved the company for tax incentives up to $7.5 million through the Kentucky Business Investment program. An
economic impact study performed by the Cabinet for Economic Development showed the number of direct, indirect, and induced jobs that will result from GM’s existing and new employment is nearly 1,950. Those jobs will provide a $222 mil-lion boost to Kentucky’s gross domestic product.
In 2010 legislation was passed making the Corvette Kentucky’s official state sports car in honor of the impact GM’s presence has had on the Kentucky economy and the role the iconic car has played in the state’s automotive history. The GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant also received the John B. Holland Business of the Year award from the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce in 2011.
NHK of America Suspension Components (NASCO) has built a new 50,000-square-foot manufacturing plant at its current location in Bowling Green. The $20 million plant is expected to add up to 108 new employees over the next several years to complement the existing work-force of over 210. The Japanese automotive sup-plier’s new facility manufactures motor cores for electric and hybrid vehicles.
In 1986 NASCO became the first Japanese company to locate in Bowling Green. It is one of the world’s largest manufacturing plants for suspension coil springs used in passenger vehi-cles and light trucks and a leading supplier of truck lid torsion bars and stabilizer links for the North American automotive industry. With the
Supplying the Automobile Industrywith Aluminum Suspension
Kobe Aluminum Automotive Products, LLC
Bowling Green, Kentucky (270) 842-6492
Expanding EnterpriseBy amanda KnoleS
Businesses find themselves growing faster than they could ever have imagined.
General motors’ announcement is the
seventh-largest investment announcement
by a Kentucky manufacturing and/or
supportive/service firm in 2011.
A Big Investment
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce24
business & industry
expansion, its total investment in the community exceeds $150 million.
“We’re excited about the opportunity to create more jobs and hopeful that we will be able to add more as the electric and hybrid car industry contin-ues to grow,” said Gregg George, senior manager of human resources at NASCO.
“The new plant is a major investment in metal stamping technology,” said Fumiaki Kimura, presi-dent of NASCO and New Mather Metals in Franklin, Kentucky. “We are grateful to the Commonwealth of Kentucky for providing tax incentives to help offset some of the costs of building and operating the new plant.”
NASCO was approved for tax incentives through the Kentucky Business Investment Program and the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act. Both incentive
1025 State Street Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 782-8160
2413 Ring Road, Suite 117Elizabethtown, KY 42701
(270) 737-9088
www.ksclawfirm.com
Thomas N. KerrickGreg N. Stivers
D. Michael CoyleH. Brent Brennenstuhl
Laura M. HaganShawn Rosso AlcottScott D. LaufenbergAndrea P. AndersonLucas A. DavidsonTed G. Hathaway
of CounselS. Frank Smith, Jr.James D. Harris, Jr.Karl N. CrandallJeffrey R. Ogrody
www.bgchamber.com 25
business & industry
programs are a part of Incentives for new Kentucky (INK), enacted by the gov-ernor and the state legislature in June 2009.
Tri Arrows Aluminum has set its sights on expansion in the North American and Latin American aluminum markets. Formerly known as ARCO Aluminum and owned by oil giant BP, the aluminum sheet manufacturer with headquarters in Louisville, Ky., was purchased for $680 million by a Japanese consortium led by Sumitomo in 2011. Through Logan Aluminum, its joint venture with Novelis, located in Russellville, Tri-Arrow manufactures aluminum sheet used primarily by the beverage and automotive industries. The Logan mill, employing over 1,000 people, is one of the world’s largest producers of aluminum can sheet, with over 300,000 tons of annual production.
“Tri-Arrows Aluminum will continue to embody the values we have brought to our business partners every day for over 30 years.” said President and CEO Pat Franc.
Apace Packaging, a pharmaceutical packager and distributor, is expand-ing its Fountain Run facility by 17,000 square feet. Established in 2005, the family-owned and operated company expects the $5.15 million project will create 35 new full-time jobs. The expansion of the existing 35,000-square-foot plant will allow the company to add a new packaging line, office space, and a maintenance shop.
Darren Shirley, Apace president, says the company is proud to be a part of Monroe County.
“We’ve been embraced by the community and we are very impressed by the quality of the workforce and the low business costs we enjoy here,” he noted.
Monroe County participates in the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce’s Menu of Services program, which markets the 10 counties in the Barren River Area Development District. The Chamber’s economic development team worked with Apace and other local officials on the proj-ect, collaborating on expansion plans and incentive requests. In addition to creating 35 new jobs, the Apace expansion is expected to result in an addi-tional 16 indirect jobs and have a total economic impact of $9.8 million.
Japanese automotive supplier Akebono Brake is adding 60,000 square feet to its Barren County facility in Glasgow, an expansion that is expected to add over 200 jobs. The plant supplies brakes and brake components to major vehicle manufacturers. When the expansion is completed the facility will span 400,000 square feet and employ more than 900.
The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority approved Akebono for tax incentives up to $4 million through the Kentucky Business Investment program.
“Akebono is grateful for the incentives that made this project possible,” said Kazu Matsumoto, president and CEO.
“We are proud to have world-class companies such as Akebono Brake continue to make investments in their Kentucky facilities and look forward to years of future partnership and growth,” noted Gov. Steve Beshear.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce26
business & industry
In 2011, Forbes magazine listed Bowling Green among the top five on its list of “Best Small Places for Business and Careers.” The city’s No. 5 ranking recognizes the successful eco-
nomic development strategy of promoting the entire South Central Kentucky region, a regional strategy that continues to draw new businesses to the area.
“It’s because of our regional approach that so many businesses thrive here,” said Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon. “Our workforce is one of the best in the nation, and our costs remain low because of the entire region’s commitment to sustaining and growing our business community.”
Shiloh Industries has moved into an 81,000-square-foot facility at the Kentucky Transpark in Bowling Green. The company is investing $9.9 million in its new manufacturing plant and expects to create 60 new jobs within three years. Paul Harland, vice president of manu-facturing operations, says the site will provide blanking and stamping services for a variety of customers, including the automotive industry and other industrial clients.
“We are very excited about expanding our operation in Kentucky,” he said, noting that the company could expand the facility to twice its pres-ent size within a few years.
The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority approved Medina Blanking, a subsidiary of Shiloh Industries, 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 Bowling Green Area Economic Development Authority, Intermodal Transportation Authority, and the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce worked together to make Shiloh’s com-mitment to the Kentucky Transpark happen. The state-of-the-art business and industrial park has received both state and national awards for excel-lence in regional economic development efforts and a commitment to environmental protection.
Another business bringing operations to the region is not a newcomer, but is adding new product lines to its facilities here based on the excellent expe-rience they’ve had in the area. Sequa Automotive Group is investing $7.2 million to expand its auto parts manufacturing plant in Morgantown and plans to add up to 280 jobs by 2014. Sequa, the parent company of ARC Automotive and CASCO Products, will expand the CASCO facility to accom-modate ARC Automotive inflator lines.
In the early 1970s ARC Automotive pioneered the hybrid inflators used in today’s vehicle airbag systems. More recently the company developed the “green” hybrid airbag inflator, which utilizes a smokeless gas generant to charge the airbag when deployed. CASCO Products offers an extensive line of automotive system sensors and USB multi-media accessories.
Bringing the new project to Morgantown was a team effort of the Bowling Green Chamber of
Commerce, the Morgantown-Butler Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Development Cabinet, the city of Morgantown, and Butler Fiscal Court. Sequa explored several options, including adding jobs to an existing facility in Mexico, before decid-ing to expand in Morgantown. Tax and training incentives sweetened the deal, but they were not the deciding factor.
“Our long-term experience in Kentucky, includ-ing the loyalty and dedication of our staff there, made more sense,” explained Ali El-Haj, president Sequa Automotive Group. “We are proud of our people and the community they represent.”
In addition to the 280 jobs created over the next three years, the investment will indirectly create 65 new jobs in the community. Over a 10-year period, Sequa’s expansion will bring nearly $5 million in additional taxes, which will benefit both Morgantown and Butler County.
New Business LocationsA regional strategy continues to attract new businesses to the area.
By amanda KnoleS
Sequa Automotive Group’s announcement
is the fifth-highest number of jobs to be
created by one 2011 project, whether
in new or expanding companies, in the
manufacturing and supportive/service
firms industries within Kentucky.
Bringing Jobs to South Central Kentucky
www.bgchamber.com 27
business & industry
Bowling Green’s central location has made it a regional shopping hub for more than 250,000 people in 11 surrounding coun-ties. The downtown area offers a wide
array of shops, from clothing and jewelry stores to antiques, accessories, and home décor. The 2nd Saturday Street Fair, held at Fountain Square Park every second Saturday from April through October, has helped spark renewed interest in shopping downtown. Organized by the Downtown Merchants and Professionals, the family-friendly event features live music, product and food vendors, face paint-ing, and inflatables and games for kids. Horse and carriage rides are available for a modest fee. The festive atmosphere features a variety of activities throughout the year, including sidewalk sales by merchants and seasonal events that pay homage to the downtown area’s rich history.
Situated in the center of downtown, Fountain Square Park is an iconic symbol of Bowling Green and is considered by locals and community lead-ers as the heart of the city. Surrounding the park’s historic fountain, statues, trees, and greenery are the impressive façades of 19th-century buildings, a restored art deco movie theater, and thriving shops and businesses. Once the site of livestock trades, trolleys, scrap drives, and prohibitionist marches, the park today is a popular spot for summer concerts, parades, arts and crafts shows, and special events throughout the year.
In conjunction with the Downtown Revitalization effort and 2nd Saturday event, downtown merchants have formed an alliance to promote buying local. According to Michael Barron, owner of Morris Jewelry, Bowling Green’s oldest jewelry store, BuyLocalBG was created to offer local residents a comprehensive online and biannual print guide to help them learn more about Bowling Green merchants and make informed choices about buying locally more often.
“Several studies have shown that when you buy from an independent, locally owned busi-ness rather than a national chain, more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers, and farms, which helps strengthen the economic base of the community,” Barron explained.
The site www.BuyLocalBG.com offers a direc-tory of participating businesses and offers video features on various merchants and their products. Barron credits the BuyLocal awareness campaign and 2nd Saturday event for helping make the downtown shopping district more popular than ever with locals and tourists.
“The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to support local businesses, and events like Second Saturdays are an excellent opportunity to bring traffic to the downtown area,” said Chamber Board Chairman Gaines Penn.
. .
One World. One Source.
Telecommunication & Life Safety Specialist
Telecommunication & Life Safety Specialist
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944 Searcy WayBowling Green, KY
(270) 781-7076(800) 844-1410
• Access Control• Cable TV • Closed Circuit TV• Fire Alarm • Fire Extinguishers• Kitchen Hood Systems• Master Clocks • Computer Networks• Nurse Call • Public Address• Pro Sound • Telephone• Video • Data • Media Management
By amanda KnoleS
2nd SaturdaysThe street fair at Fountain Square has sparked renewed interest in shopping downtown.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce28
business & industry
The Central Region Innovation and Commercialization Center (ICC) facil-itates the creation, growth, recruit-ment, and retention of science and
technology companies. It plays a vital role in a partnership that offers high-tech companies the guidance, funding, and facilities they need to get off the ground.
The ICC works as a virtual incubator, where entrepreneurs and scientists can get assistance with their ideas and business concepts. Funding for the program is provided through the Kentucky Department of Commercialization and Innovation (DCI), a branch of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development.
“At the core of our service is a set of detailed steps and guidelines — what we call the ICC Process — to help entrepreneurs refine their busi-ness strategy, financials, investor presentation, concept, and valuation,” explained ICC Executive Director Doug Rohrer. “This detailed framework creates a business package that potential investors can use to assess their level of interest.”
Rohrer said the steps in the ICC Process ensure business owners develop a solid business concept and valuation of the company.
The ICC is located with two other vital resources for tech startups. Western Kentucky University’s Center for Research and Development (CRD), with over 275,000 square feet of space located on 27 acres, provides state-of-the-art research facilities as well as access to world-class applied research centers and scientists. Here, along with ICC, are the Small Business Development Center
and the Small Business Accelerator, currently fea-turing 19 technology-based businesses.
The ICC and Small Business Accelerator often work together. The Business Accelerator provides office space, while the ICC helps with funding and business development. The Small Business Development Center helps guide technology-based business startups and assists existing busi-nesses in expanding to the next level.
“Our facilities provide the perfect environment for engineers and scientists from the university and private companies to collaborate and expand their ideas for commercial technology,” explained Jeff Hook, director of the Small Business Accelerator.
The ICC also helps identify new high-tech busi-ness ideas. In 2011 ICC launched Bucks for Bright Ideas, a publicly funded program that encourages residents to move forward with their bright ideas.
“Many people in our part of the state have inno-vative ideas that could become the foundation of a new business, but they need help moving forward toward commercialization,” explained Hook.
Steve Allen – President
2750 Griffin DriveBowling Green, KY 42101
Office: 270-783-3589Fax: 270-783-4237
E-mail: [email protected]
www.cgsmachine.com
By amanda KnoleS
Central Region ICCGetting high-tech companies off the ground.
In 2007 Hitcents was named
one of Inc. magazine’s 500
fastest-growing companies,
and by 2011 the Mills brothers
were on Inc.’s “5,000 CEOs
under 30” list.
www.bgchamber.com 29
business & industry
The promotion, sponsored by local businesses, helped foster public awareness of the help avail-able to potential entrepreneurs at the ICC and rewarded the winners with one-on-one assistance from business development experts.
Hitcents is one of the favorite success sto-ries at the CRD. The brainchild of high school sophomores Chris and Clinton Mills, it became the first company to set up shop at the CRD in 2002. In 2003 the company was acquired by Houchens Industries, and in 2007 it was named one of Inc. magazine’s 500 fastest-growing com-panies. By 2011 the Mills brothers were on Inc.’s “5,000 CEOs under 30” list. Hitcents also received the 2011 Business Innovation Award for South Central Kentucky, an award from the Bowling Green Chamber that recognizes the impact tar-geted businesses have on the region. The Hitcents motto “dream it real” has brought the company
success in many markets, including Web design, technology, hardware and software development, marketing, and branding.
For more information on the ICC, visit www.wku.edu/centralregionicc.
InFORmAtIOn
30 Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
business & industry
T he Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has been assisting Kentucky’s small business commu-nity for more than 25 years. With
15 service centers statewide and an experienced staff, SBDC provides the consulting and training services that help existing business owners and potential entrepreneurs succeed.
Miller Slaughter, director of the SBDC at Western Kentucky University, assists startup com-panies and existing businesses in the 10-county South Central Kentucky Region. Slaughter says one of his primary goals is to make sure more people in the region are aware of the assistance available to them at the small business center.
The SBDC office assists 15 to 20 business startups each year and provides counseling and
other services to small companies considering expansion. While the SBDC does not offer loans, it does assist with loan applications and connects entrepreneurs with sources that can offer finan-cial assistance.
Slaughter says the steps to starting a busi-ness can seem overwhelming, particularly to those who have limited business experience, but SBDC consultants are available to help guide people through the process. The SBDC offers free and confidential consulting services to help businesses with a variety of concerns, including business plans, financial projections, and mar-keting. Seminars on topics of interest to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs are offered monthly.
EntrepreneurshipConsulting and training services that help existing business owners and potential entrepreneurs succeed.
By amanda KnoleS
For more information on the SBDC, visit www.wku.edu/sbdc.
InFORmAtIOn
www.bgchamber.com 31
business & industry
Bowling Green Area Chamber Boosts Entrepreneurs
Regina Webb, the Bowling Green Area Chamber’s 2011 Small Business Person of the Year, is president and founder of Regina Webb Salon & Spa, Regina Webb Academy, and Regina Webb Hair Products and Cosmetics.
“Bowling Green is a pro-growth community. and the people here are great mentors to others,” Webb said. “the Chamber, the volunteers, business associations, and the university all contribute to a growth-minded environment. For people who are considering starting a business in Bowling Green, I would say make your first stop the Chamber of Commerce. I have learned so much over the years from my involvement with the Chamber, and I am happy to be able to share what I have learned with others.”
Keith Coffman, owner of Lost River Pizza Company, values the doors his Chamber partnership opens for him.
“networking opportunities were one of my primary reasons for joining the Chamber,” he said. “the Business Expo helped me promote my new restaurant and connect with other business owners that I continue to work with. the Chamber offers a lot of programs for all types of businesses, but small business owners will find the resources particularly helpful. Joining the Chamber opened a lot of doors for me and has helped me to better understand the dynamics of Bowling Green.”
Karrie Cash, owner of Kash Collection, celebrated the grand opening of her boutique in Bowling Green in April 2011. In a video interview with Vice President of Chamber Operations tonya matthews, Cash explained how participating in the Chamber’s Welcome Back WKU Festival provided great exposure for her store.
“I got about 40 new customers off of that and I am still seeing customers off of those people coming into the store,” she said.
Cash emphasized in her video that other small businesses should take advantage of the Chamber’s networking opportunities.
“Every business owner needs to be involved in networking, and the Chamber has so many venues and ways for that to happen.”
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce32
chapter header
education
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce34
education
H ome to nationally recognized pub-lic schools, a top-rated research university, and an accredited tech-nical college, Bowling Green is
uniquely placed to grow its own highly talented, specially trained workforce.
In addition to academic programs that have landed them on lists of the nation’s best schools and new, state-of-the-art learning facilities, stu-dents in the Bowling Green Independent Schools and Warren County Schools districts can take advantage of the Warren Area Technology Center, offering a variety of technical programs and training in workplace skills. The Bowling Green Area Chamber supplements workforce train-ing in schools through its Business-Education Partnerships, Work Ethic Seal, and Leader in Me® programs, ensuring the graduates emerge more than prepared for higher education or a place in the workforce.
Relocating businesses often cite the presence of Western Kentucky University and Bowling Green Technical College in the community as a deciding factor in their choice of South Central Kentucky. WKU is not only a top-rated academic university, but also an ambassador for South Central Kentucky nationally and internation-ally, through such programs as the Confucius Institute. BGTC maintains close relationships with business and industry to ensure their train-ing programs are relevant to needs and cutting-edge. BGTC’s six campuses — including an educational and research center located at the
Transpark — ensure the college’s ability to deliver needed services across the region.
Recognizing the unique and invaluable asset its young, highly trained workforce represents, the city of Bowling Green has made a special resolve to retain young talent in the commu-nity in its Vision 2022, focusing on broad job opportunities, continued investment in work-force training, embracing diversity, and building a vibrant, family-friendly community.
0
5
10
15
20
Bachelor’sDegree
Graduate orProfessional
Degree
18.3% 17.7%
11.2%10.4%
Percent ofPopulation
25 Years & Older
Bowling Green
United States
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 American Community Survey
A Strong Talent PoolUniquely placed to grow a highly talented, specially trained workforce.
By laura WilCoxen
www.bgchamber.com 35
education
Established in 1906, Western Kentucky University today serves more than 21,000 students on its main campus in Bowling Green, Kentucky, and its
regional campuses in Glasgow, Elizabethtown/ Ft. Knox/Radcliff, and Owensboro. WKU offers more than 170 undergraduate degree programs and more than 50 graduate programs, including doc-toral degrees in Education Leadership and Doctor of Nurse Practice, with a third program, Doctor of Physical Therapy, planned for Fall 2012. There are more than 90,000 WKU alumni across the globe.
The fastest growing university in Kentucky for the last 14 years, WKU has undergone an aggres-sive transformation of both the physical campus and the academic mission of the institution. WKU is guided by our vision to become “A Leading American University with International Reach.” That vision is being achieved with national award-winning programs in Journalism, Photo Journalism and Broadcasting and a nationally and internation-ally renowned speech and debate team. WKU stu-dents are receiving top national and international academic honors and scholarship awards as well, and in 2010 WKU was listed as one of the top producers of Fulbright award winners.
Through its Center for Gifted Studies, WKU has been serving the state’s academically gifted youth for 30 years. In 2010 the World Council on Gifted Education relocated its headquarters to WKU. WKU is home to the state’s only indepen-dent Honors College with nearly 1,200 students, and is also home to the Gatton Academy for Math and Science in Kentucky, a residential high school for 120 of the state’s brightest juniors and seniors.
University faculty are engaged in important research around the world, and an increasing number of WKU students are studying abroad. More than 1,300 WKU students studied abroad
in 34 countries in 2010-11. WKU’s international student population includes students from 55 countries. In 2010 WKU was awarded Kentucky’s first Confucius Institute by the Chinese Ministry of Education and through that program is bring-ing Chinese language and culture to some 2,000 K-12 students in South Central Kentucky. WKU is home to one of only nine Chinese Language Flagship programs in the nation. Funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Language Flagship program develops students’ language skills to superior and provides opportunities for study abroad and professional internships.
WKU students, faculty and staff contributed more than $670 million to the local economy in 2010 and are engaged across the community in volunteer efforts to support a variety of pro-grams and organizations. The University family contributed nearly $55,000 to United Way of Southern Kentucky last year. WKU is also a Presidents Club member of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.
What’s New at WKUWKU has undergone an aggressive transformation.
By WKu Staff
Learn more about Western Kentucky University at www.wku.edu.
InFORmAtIOn
In 2010 WKU was listed as one of the top producers of Fulbright award winners.
education
36 Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Bowling Green Technical College (BGTC) offers quality education at affordable prices. With an enrollment of over 5,000 students and six campus locations, BGTC is improv-
ing the quality of life in South Central Kentucky. BGTC offers more than 30 degree, diploma,
and certificate programs. Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees provide the foundation for students to earn a bachelor’s degree. Through BGTC’s Joint Admissions Agreement with Western
Kentucky University, students pursuing Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees can transfer seamlessly from BGTC to WKU. The agreement outlines the emphasis on education and collabo-ration between two of the leading institutions in South Central Kentucky.
The Associate in Applied Science Degree offers specialized skills and knowledge. Students who earn the AAS are meeting the needs of local busi-ness, manufacturing, and health industries.
BGTC offers specialized training in high-demand technology fields, including mechatron-ics, one of the fastest-growing technical educa-tion programs in the world. According to BGTC President Dr. Nathan Hodges, training programs continually evolve as the needs of businesses in the region change. Under the Certificate Program in Mechatronics, students learn the operation of electrical, mechanical, pneumatic/hydraulic, and programmable logic control components in an advanced manufacturing system. BGTC utilizes the Amatrol Mechatronics Learning System, which rec-reates the industrial environment in the classroom.
“Industrial methods and components combine so students learn to do tasks they will perform on the job,” explained Brian Sparks, associate professor of engineering and electronics technology.
The Engineering and Electronics Technology program also prepares students for leading-edge sectors like robotics and industrial automation, providing the background to work as assistants to engineers, liaisons between engineers and skilled craftsmen, and plant maintenance specialists.
BGTC is focused on student success. Small class sizes foster close bonds between students and faculty, while multiple course offerings allow flexibility for stu-dents. Campus locations in Bowling Green, Glasgow, and Franklin allow students to take classes close to home or online.
One of the fastest-growing community col-leges in the nation, BGTC has witnessed significant growth in the areas of credentials awarded, financial aid distribution, diversity initiatives, and workforce training. The Kentucky Community and Technical College System recognized BGTC as the flagship institution in workforce training, serving 699 busi-nesses throughout the region in 2010–2011.
Bowling Green Technical College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award the associate degree.
Bowling Green Technical CollegeGo to Transfer, Go to Work, Go YOU!
By BGtC Staff
For additional information about Bowling Green Technical College, please visit the BGTC website at www.bowlinggreen.kctcs.edu
InFORmAtIOn
education
Bowling Green and Warren County offer progressive public school districts, pro-viding Pre-K–12 students a great start on their road to success.
With an enrollment of approximately 4,000 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 2010 and 2011 graduated 461 students, includ-ing 108 honor graduates, and earned a combined total of over $18 million in scholarship offers.
The district is also very proud of its diversity. More than 14 percent of the student population speaks English as a second language, and more than 30 home languages are represented. The dis-trict is also 54 percent free and reduced lunch and has a minority population of 38 percent.
More than one in three BGHS students are enrolled in at least one Advanced Placement course, and last spring, over 65 percent of the AP exams resulted in a score of 3 or higher, qualifying for college credit.
Three Bowling Green Elementary Schools have earned the National Blue Ribbon designation from the U. S. Department of Education: T. C. Cherry, Potter Gray, and W. R. McNeill Elementary. McNeill Elementary is also the home to the 2011 Kentucky Elementary Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Sarah Wilder.
Districtwide, schools are implementing Franklin Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People through the Leader in Me, Seven Habits of Happy Kids, and Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens. The pro-grams promote character development, academic
achievement, personal responsibility, effective com-munication, and conflict management.
Encouraging more global learning, three teachers from the Confucius Institute at Western Kentucky University are providing Chinese language instruc-tion at Parker-Bennett-Curry Elementary, W. R. McNeill Elementary, Bowling Green Junior High, and Bowling Green High School.
Warren County Public Schools (WCPS) is growing in technology, diversity, sustainability, and college readiness. More than 14,000 students attend the district’s 22 schools, and WCPS employs nearly 2,000 faculty and staff members.
The district takes a hands-on approach to the latest technology. In the past year, WCPS was awarded more than $130,000 in grants and tech-nology funds, allowing teachers to expose students to technology in new ways. Band students in the district’s middle schools now use a recording pro-gram to view on screen how accurately they are hitting notes or staying on tempo. In other schools, iPads have been awarded for student book clubs and to assist English language learning.
This year WCPS unveiled new websites at every school to enhance communication. The sites allow fast access to the most reliable news, optional e-mail updates for parents, and the capability for live video streaming of school events. Every teacher in Warren County has launched a website that has allows him or her to assign and receive digital homework, blog, and display photos of class activities.
As the district grows by about 400 students each year, the growth in diversity also flourishes, with nearly 30 languages served. In an effort to accom-modate its new refugee families, WCPS recently opened the Gateway to Educational Opportunities Center on Morgantown Road. The welcoming cen-ter helps non-English-speaking students transition smoothly into a new school and culture. A GED diploma program is also available at the center for refugees 18 to 21 years old.
Sustainability efforts continue to grow as well. The ultra-efficient Richardsville Elementary School remains the only Net Zero school in the nation, producing more clean energy via solar panels than it consumes. People travel from across the globe to see how the district has offset more than $6 million in energy costs through conservation programs, improved building designs, and renovations.
In fall 2012, WCPS will open yet another Net Zero ready building when Jody Richards Elementary begins its inaugural year. Located in the Ivan Downs area, the school will accom-modate more than 500 students and boast the same minimal-energy-consumption features as the Richardsville and Bristow schools.
To learn more about the growing district with growing minds, visit the new WCPS website at www.warrencountyschools.org.
Public SchoolsAccolades, honors, and scholarships continue to roll in.
By Jay nehrKorn
37www.bgchamber.com
Gatton Academy
the Carol martin Gatton Academy of
mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky
University is Kentucky’s only full tuition-paid,
residential program for high school junior-
and senior-year students who are gifted in
mathematics and science, and it is one of 16
state-supported residential high schools with
an emphasis in StEm (science, technology,
engineering and mathematics) subjects in the
United States. In 2011, Gatton Academy was
recognized by Newsweek magazine as one of
the nation’s top five high schools. Also, the
Academy was named one of the magazine’s 20
“Public Elite” High Schools nationwide in 2010.
Gatton Academy applicants are high school
sophomores who have completed at least
Geometry, Algebra I, and Algebra II by
the end of their sophomore year. Each
year approximately 60 Kentucky residents
are admitted into the Academy, with an
equal division between male and female
students for a total of 126 students, who are
enrolled in university StEm courses that are
supplemented with courses in arts, humanities,
and other subjects. Graduates of the Gatton
Academy receive at least 60 hours of college
credit and their high school diplomas. Learn
more at www.wku.edu/academy.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce38
education
Educational opportunities for students in Warren County don’t end with pub-lic education. There are a number of faith-based private alternatives which
also provide area children with quality educa-tional programs.
An independent, non-denominational school, Bowling Green Christian Academy
(www.bgcawarriors.org) serves students in pre-school through eighth grade at their Destiny Lane campus, and the school provides a combination of online and onsite teachers utilizing SevenStar Online Curriculum for high school students. The school is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International and is kindergar-ten through eighth grade accredited by ACSI.
Saint Joseph Interparochial School (www.stjosephschoolbg.org) offers a Catholic education that includes a curriculum framework that reflects goals, state and national standards, and assessment strategies for instructional pur-poses as well as daily religion classes. Total enrollment is approximately 350 students, with grade levels ranging from preschool through eighth grade, and the school is accredited by both the Kentucky Non-Public School Commission (KyNPSC) and the National Council for Private School Accreditation.
Located on a 39-acre campus on Three Springs Road in Bowling Green, Foundation Christian Academy (www.fcafalcons.com) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the National Christian School Association (NCSA). Classes are offered for Pre-K through sixth grade with stu-dents receiving academic training, Bible courses, fine arts instruction, and the opportunity to par-ticipate in cross-country events.
Summer Programming for grades 6-8 and 7-10
Saturday Programming for grades 1-8
Travel Opportunities for grades 8-12
For more information about our services, contact
Dr. Julia Roberts, Director of The Center for
Gifted Studies at Western Kentucky
University, at 270-745-6323 or see
our website at www.wku.edu/gifted .
The Center forGifted Studies
Private SchoolsFaith-based alternatives provide quality education.
By Jay nehrKorn
Allen County Schools270-618-3181 • www.allen.kyschools.us
Barren County Schools270-651-3787 • www.barren.k12.us
Butler County Schools270-526-5624 • www.butlerschools.net
Edmonson County Schools270-597-2101 • www.edmonson.k12.ky.us
Hart County Schools270-524-2631 • www.hart.k12.ky.us
Logan County Schools270-726-2436 • www.logan.k12.ky.us
Metcalfe County Schools270-432-3171 • www.metcalfe.k12.ky.us
Simpson County Schools270-586-8877 • www.simpson.k12.ky.us
Other Regional School Districts
www.bgchamber.com 39
education
In 2009, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce met with representatives of local school districts to discuss The Leader in Me®, a process that weaves important life skills into
every aspect of the’ curriculum.Based on Dr. Stephen Covey’s book The 7 Habits
of Highly Effective People, The Leader in Me is not a class, but a set of positive concepts. The process helps teachers of all subjects become life coaches, giving students a unified message and examples of how being proactive, planning, prioritizing, and working effectively with others will help them lead more productive lives.
“The Leader in Me process continues to receive noteworthy praise from administrators, teachers, parents, and students,” explained Nolan Marx, senior client partner at Franklin Covey. “It is producing extraordinary results and having a sig-nificant impact on the lives of children of all ages, socioeconomic levels, learning capacities, and cul-tural backgrounds.”
Schools are reporting increases in students’ self-confidence, teamwork, initiative, responsibil-ity, creativity, self-direction, leadership, problem solving, communication, diversity awareness, and academic performance.
“Schools experience improved school cultures, dramatic decreases in disciplinary issues, increased teacher pride, and greater parent satisfaction and involvement,” Marx said.
Chamber Board of Directors Vice President John Mark Fones of Commonwealth Health Corporation points out that teaching these concepts is conducive to both the success of each student and the growth of the community.
“From a business standpoint, this is an invest-ment in our future workforce,” Fones explained. “We believe the principles and values that The Leader In Me teaches, as well as the behaviors that those values produce, are synonymous with the skill sets employers are seeking in their employees.
“As business people, we are very appreciative that our educators are embracing this process,” he continued. “As we look to recruit businesses to locate here and bring their management teams to South Central Kentucky, a process like this in our schools will make employers say, ‘Wow, that’s special.’ We feel that The Leader in Me will help us differentiate our community.”
Educators are also grateful for the opportunity.“We saw this as the missing piece for what we
were offering our children and preparing them for,” said Kathy Goff, assistant superintendent at Warren County Public Schools. “We had great curriculum processes, we had great instructional strategies, but we wanted the children to take ownership and feel empowered to be leaders who have the confidence they need in order to excel.”
Goff also points out that the process is an easy sell, because it has a positive effect on everyone.
“It’s made a huge difference with our teachers, because our practice is that you have to believe, understand, and use the principles in order to effec-tively teach them,” Goff said. “It’s a great role model for the children.”
Tara Griffith, a librarian at McNeill Elementary of Bowling Green Independent Schools, orga-nizes leadership luncheons, giving students the chance to interact with community leaders. She says the constant reinforcement of these concepts has helped students make great choices both aca-demically and socially.
“Just using the vocabulary and those concrete examples in everything we do has been one of the biggest ways that students have learned to imple-ment The Leader in Me process on a daily basis,” Griffith said. “The process has helped students become more focused on setting and achieving goals through ‘Beginning with the End in Mind,’ and they are better at prioritizing their daily tasks through ‘Putting First Things First.’”
By Jay nehrKorn
Growing Effective Leaders Weaving important life skills into every aspect of the curriculum.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce40
chapter header
real estate
www.bgchamber.com 41
real estate
I n August 2010, USA Today ran a story on the continued success of the Bowling Green housing market, citing a number of factors for the community’s strength,
including expanding local businesses, leading to increased consumer confidence; a resilient economy; and “hot” neighborhoods (such as the city’s revitalized, historic downtown).
These factors have led to South Central Kentucky’s enjoying a relative immunity to the volatility of the national housing market. Indeed,
the Warren County market has shown remark-able stability, with average sales prices rising slowly but steadily and the median list price remaining steady at $139,000. In Bowling Green, the value of residential building permits rose by 5.7 percent from 2009 to 2010, from $17.6 mil-lion to 18.5 million.
“Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky did not see the significant price increase in homes that many areas of country experienced — rather, we maintained a steady price increase,”
said Meg Manning, executive director of the REALTOR® Association of Southern Kentucky, Inc. “Therefore, as the economy has slowed, many regions have seen significant price declines, but the South Central Kentucky region’s home prices have remained fairly steady and affordable for homebuyers and sellers. Real estate is local, and South Central Kentucky remains an afford-able place to buy and sell a home.”
Residential Real EstateBy laura WilCoxen
The market continues to show remarkable stability.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce42
real estate
T he Bowling Green Area Chamber announced record-setting industrial capital expenditure in South Central Kentucky in 2010, with more than
$241 million invested in projects ranging from automotive plants to new pharmaceutical pack-aging facilities. In comparison with 2009 num-bers, commercial sector building permit values soared 82 percent in 2010, from $65.8 million to $119.8 million.
“By the end of 2010, South Central Kentucky was entering recovery mode,” said Alex Nottmeier, CCIM, SIOR, of Neal Turner Realty. “At the start of 2011, we were cautiously optimistic about the commercial and industrial real estate market, and we expect continued growth, stabilization in vacancies, and a stabilization in rental rates throughout the region.”
South Central Kentucky has remained a good commercial investment throughout the nation’s recent economic woes, with commercial real estate values holding steady.
Further good news is on the horizon for the region’s dominant automotive industry. Nottmeier says that GM’s $131 million investment in its Bowling Green plant “should create an economic
ripple effect in our industrial market … suppliers to GM will begin to need more industrial space.”
The region’s retail and restaurant market also enjoyed a resurgence in 2010–2011, as national retail and restaurant franchises renewed their interest in the region. However, chains did not fully dominate the sector. “Sales growth seemed to be distributed across retail seg-ments instead of being concentrated at discount stores,” Nottmeier noted.
Further, retail closures were offset as, in many cases, startup businesses and expansions moved into vacant storefront properties.
The future continues to look bright. Warren County saw 23 percent growth from 2000 to 2010, according to U.S. Census figures. Further, continued infrastructure improvement promises more room for expansion.
“The recent widening of Nashville Road has made the Campbell Lane/Nashville Road intersec-tion heavily traveled, with approximately 35,000 vehicles a day,” Nottmeier said. “The Nashville Road widening south of the Natcher Parkway will bring additional commercial real estate activ-ity. In addition, the extension of Natcher Parkway east of I-65 has opened.”
Commercial Real EstatePermit values soared 82 percent in 2010.
By laura WilCoxen
www.bgchamber.com 43
healthcare
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce44
healthcare
With eight hospitals and clinics and a wide range of healthcare specialists in the region, every medical need of residents can be met in the Bowling
Green area. Keeping health and wellness services close to home ensures affordable care for South Central Kentucky.
Additionally, area hospitals have led the way in adopting cutting-edge technologies that help reduce costs by improving outcomes, minimizing recovery times, and reducing treatment and service errors. Greenview Regional Hospital was recognized with the 2009–10 Hospital Value Index “Best in Value
Award” for its high marks in “quality, affordability, efficiency, and satisfaction.”
Further, area medical providers focus on well-ness, working to help residents live a healthy life-style and avoid costly treatments and chronic illness. The Medical Center opened its Health & Wellness Center in Greenwood Mall as a health resource cen-ter, providing educational classes, health screenings, exercise classes, the Diabetes Education Program, Medical Nutrition Therapy, and more.
There are also clinics in the region focused on providing needed medical, optical, and dental care to low-income and underserved patients.
High-Quality CareKeeping health and wellness services close to home ensures high-quality care for South Central Kentucky.
By laura WilCoxen
www.bgchamber.com 45
healthcare
The Medical Center is dedicated to being a complete healthcare provider, allowing access to a full spectrum of medical ser-vices for South Central Kentucky. As the
healthcare leader in the region, The Medical Center provides the best, most up-to-date care and is proud to sustain the high quality of care the community has come to know and rely upon.
With the region’s only comprehensive heart program, The Medical Center allows residents to stay close to home for interventional cardiology, electrophysiology services, open-heart surgery, and cardiac rehabilitation. Following stringent protocols to ensure patients receive timely and effective treat-ment during the early stages of a heart attack, The Medical Center has maintained the Society of Chest Pain Center’s designation as a Chest Pain Center with PCI (Percutaneous Coronary Intervention). The Medical Center provides the area’s only 24-hour emergency intervention for balloon angioplasty, car-diac stenting, and open-heart surgery.
Leading the area in stroke care, The Medical Center also maintains The Joint Commission’s cer-tification as a Primary Stroke Center. Building upon its stroke care program, The Medical Center estab-lished neuroscience services in 2011 to encompass a wide range of services for the care of patients with disorders related to the brain and nervous system. Neurosurgeon Narendra Nathoo, M.D., joined The Medical Center to expand its brain and spine sur-gery capabilities.
The Medical Center provides South Central Kentucky with a comprehensive cancer program that includes an on-site radiation treatment center with the most advanced technology, as well as
chemotherapy and surgical services. As an indication of the quality of the cancer program, The Medical Center has earned a Three-Year Accreditation with Commendation by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.
The Medical Center prides itself on providing excellent obstetrical care for moms and babies dur-ing and after delivery. And for unforeseen problems that might arise, The Medical Center provides neo-natology services through the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) to care for its smallest patients. The Medical Center is the sole provider of obstetrical and neonatology services in Warren County.
Staying at the forefront of advanced technol-ogy, The Medical Center offers minimally invasive robotic surgery with the da Vinci® Surgical System. This innovative technology combines computer and robotic technologies with the skill of a surgeon, enabling the surgeon to perform extremely precise and complex movements with greater ease through tiny incisions. Potential benefits to the patient include less pain, less scarring, and dramatically improved recovery times.
In 2011, The Medical Center introduced a surgical weight loss program to effectively treat obesity and help patients achieve lifelong success with their weight loss. The new service offers minimally invasive surgery options, supported by a comprehensive program that includes nutritional counseling, psychological counseling, and support group meetings.
The Medical Center is dedicated to wellness and prevention. The Medical Center Health & Wellness Center, located off Cave Mill Road in Chandler Park, serves the community as a health resource center, providing educational classes, health screenings, exercise classes, the Diabetes Education Program, Medical Nutritional Counseling, and more.
Meeting the needs of the growing and diverse population of South Central Kentucky, The Medical Center also provides orthopaedic surgery, vascular surgery, behavioral health ser-vices, diagnostic imaging, and a host of other services. To find a complete list of services, visit www.TheMedicalCenter.org.
The Medical CenterBy Staff of the mediCal Center
Providing the best, most up-to-date care.
The Medical Center has earned a Three-
Year Accreditation with Commendation by the Commission on Cancer
of the American College of Surgeons.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce46
healthcare
G raves-Gilbert Clinic is proud to announce its 75th birthday in 2012. The clinic has been the heart of healthcare since its founding, with strong, deep ties to the communities it serves. Graves-Gilbert Clinic is an independent, physician-
owned clinic with more than 70 physicians providing care in 21 medi-cal specialties. Graves-Gilbert’s focus is to bring compassionate quality care and new technology to the areas deserving patients.
Graves-Gilbert Clinic is a Regional Center of Excellence for patient care. Our Great Physicians for our Great Communities campaign focuses on recruiting high-quality, caring physicians. Graves-Gilbert’s passion is to be the preferred and pre-eminent provider of patient services as a benefit to our patients. Each year has seen a significant recruitment of new physicians, many of whom are Kentucky natives returning home to practice!
As Graves-Gilbert grows, investments in equipment and renova-tions to its more than 130,000-square-foot facilities have taken place. This growth not only brings new services to patients, it brings well-paying jobs to the community. Graves-Gilbert is one of the largest employers in the area.
Graves-Gilbert is the driving force for most new healthcare tech-nology. Recent results have seen improvements in cardiac, pulmonary, urology, and OB/GYN care.
Whatever your healthcare needs throughout the stages of your life, Graves-Gilbert is here to serve you. pediatric medicine, internal medi-cine, 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 wide range of excellent specialists are conveniently located together to take care of you.
Graves-Gilbert Clinic Physicians Care About You!
Graves-Gilbert ClinicBringing quality care and new technology to the communities it serves.
By BetSy CooKSey
For more information, visit www.ggclinic.com.
InFORmAtIOn
www.bgchamber.com 47
healthcare
Greenview Regional Hospital has been named one of the top hospital perform-ers in the nation on the key quality mea-sures of health accreditation group The
Joint Commission.As designated in September 2011, Greenview
is considered one of the top 14 percent of Joint Commission-accredited hospitals nationwide and qualified in the categories of care for pneumonia and surgery. Greenview Regional Hospital in Bowling Green is among only 10 hospitals in Kentucky and 405 nationwide to be recognized for excellence in Key Quality Measures. It was the only hospital in the region to be recognized for surgical care.
The designations cited by Greenview are based on performance data reported to The Joint Commission during the previous calendar year. The Joint Commission, an independent not-for-profit organization, is the nation’s oldest and largest stan-dards-setting and accrediting body in health care.
“Today, the public expects transparency in the reporting of performance at the hospitals where they receive care, and The Joint Commission is shining a light on the top-performing hospitals, such as Greenview Regional Hospital, that have achieved excellence on a number of vital measures of quality of care,” said Mark R. Chassin, M.D., FACP, M.P.P., M.P.H., president of The Joint Commission.
Greenview is in the midst of a building project that will further improve the surgical experience for both physicians and patients. The hospital’s $10 million renovation of its Ashley Circle campus includes surgical suite upgrades and easier access to surgical areas for patients and their families.
2011 Best of Bowling Green AwardGreenview Regional Hospital was selected for
the 2011 Best of Bowling Green Award in the Medical & Surgical Hospitals category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).
The USCA “Best of Local Business” Award Program focuses on quality — not quantity — and recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community, and winners are
determined based on information gathered by both the USCA and third parties.
New at GreenviewGreenview Regional Hospital unveiled a newly •wrapped GObg Transit bus in August 2011 and announced a year-long partnership that will publicize the hospital’s orthopaedic services and provide timely funding to Bowling Green’s public bus system. The GObg Transit bus makes a cir-cuit every 55 minutes, with routes running from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. each Monday through Friday.Early 2011 saw the completion of Greenview’s •new MRI, adjacent to the Physician’s Specialty Center. The MRI and the new building hous-ing it cost approximately $2.3 million. The new
building provides radiology with up-to-date diagnostic equipment and some much-needed space.Longtime Bowling Green family practice phy-•sician Jack Glasser, M.D., moved his offices to Greenview’s Physician Specialty Center at 1325 Andrea Street in early 2011. “Dr. Glasser and The Glasser Clinic are great additions for Greenview,” said hospital CEO Mark Marsh. “Dr. Glasser brings his years of practice and love for this community to our campus. We look for-ward in the months ahead as The Glasser Clinic expands to better serve his loyal patient base.”
Greenview Regional Hospital maintains a cul-ture of excellence where “Caring, Compassion, Commitment” are more than just words. The staff and physicians at Greenview are a family of health-care workers committed to the care and improve-ment of human life, and we place the needs of our patients first.
Greenview Regional HospitalBy alan Palmer
Considered one of the top 14 percent of hospitals nationwide.
Greenview Regional Hospital is among only 405 nationwide to be recognized
for excellence in Key Quality Measures.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce48
healthcare
South Central Kentucky is home to specialty care providers ranging from urgent care and rehabilitation centers to home health services and hospice care. Newcomers will
find hearing and vision specialists, dentists, pain management specialists, dermatologists, pediatrists, and many other providers nearby and ready to help.
The only freestanding imaging center in the South Central Kentucky region, Western
Kentucky Diagnostic Imaging offers a relaxed, personable environment for MRI, ultrasound, mammography, flouroscopy, CT scan, X-ray, and a variety of other state-of-the-art imaging services. They have four doctors on staff and participate with over two dozen popular insurance plans.
Bowling Green is also home to one of Kentucky’s leading psychiatric hospitals for the treatment of young people. Rivendell Behavioral Health Services
provides care for mental health disorders, substance abuse treatment, and psychiatric services for children and adolescents through specially designed programs.
Patients requiring specialized care for extended periods have local options as well. Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital is dedicated to the treatment of critically ill patients, offering a variety of nursing, respiratory therapy, and rehabilitation services. Likewise, Rosewood Health Care Center provides stroke recovery, respite, and hospice care as well as other traditional types of long-term care. They offer cardiac, pulmonary, wound care, and Alzheimer’s specialty programs as well as physical, occupational, and speech rehabilitation therapies.
Located at the Heartland Medical Plaza, CORPCARE has provided healthcare services for military veterans for over 14 years. Part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, CORPCARE offers primary care, laboratory, mental health, and radiology services.
Founded in 2004 by Elizabeth Turner Campbell, The Center for Courageous Kids is a world-class medical camping facility in Scottsville, Ky. Providing a cost-free, safe, and memorable camp-ing experience for medically fragile children and their families, the camp is supported by generous donations from individuals, corporations, health-care partners, foundations, and the community.
Located at Western Kentucky University, The Kelly Autism Program (KAP) provides an educational, social, and supportive environment for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other disabilities from the age of 7 through adulthood so they can achieve their potential as independent, productive, and active community citizens. KAP offers programming for elementary, middle school, high school, and post-secondary students, including higher education, vocational training, and job support.
Specialized HealthcareThe region is home to a broad span of specialty clinics.
By Jay nehrKorn InFORmAtIOnVisit the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce online at www.bgchamber.com to find more quality health care providers in the region.
www.bgchamber.com 49
healthcare
South Central Kentucky is home to many reha-bilitation professionals who can help injured workers get on the mend, but area employ-ers also understand the value of avoiding
workplace injuries to keep their workforce healthy and their health costs to a minimum. The region has a number of companies that specialize in reducing the physical stresses that put employees at risk.
“Due to the changes in standard health plans over the last decade, more and more companies are deciding to become self-insured and manage their risk internally. Many employers have discovered that they need local experts to help them with this task,” explained Total Fitness Connection Managing Partner Todd Mason, PT, MS. “Where most compa-nies miss the boat with their wellness plans is that they gather health-related data through a Health Risk Assessment (HRA) but then are unable to, or do not attempt to, affect a measurable change. We are the solution for this change within the workforce.”
Total Fitness Connection, which operates four local fitness centers, has been developing their Workforce Strength Builder® corporate wellness program for 10 years. The program includes onsite ergonomic assessments, continual risk assessments, and functional capacity evaluations focused on fix-ing existing problems and reducing potential ones. Mason says the customizable program can fit both large and small companies and that insurance pro-viders are often on board with making the program a reality for employees.
“Insurance providers and TPA’s understand how important the services we provide are, and many of them offer similar programs; however, they are not able to be as effective due to the distance,” Mason said. “Once insurance providers learn there is a
comprehensive option for these services locally, they have proven to be cooperative.”
Work Therapeutics in Bowling Green also takes an onsite approach to preventing workforce injuries, including regular workplace visits to give employees one-on-one job coaching consultations with a thera-pist who can answer their questions.
“When an employee has a concern, they can notify the employer, and I visit them at their worksta-tion to look at how they’re doing the job and what their concern is. I can then give them points on how to protect their bodies and reduce the strain of what they’re doing,” said Work Therapeutics thera-pist Ginnie Halling. “If we intervene early, a lot of things that might wind up at the doctor’s office don’t, because they don’t go on for long periods of time. When I worked in a clinic as a traditional therapist I might not have seen people with repetitive injuries until they’d had a problem for three to six months; but when they know they can visit with a therapist at work, we tend to see them within a week or two.”
Work Therapeutics also helps employers by physically measuring the demands of jobs and inden-tifying solutions that reduce risks, including job rota-tion plans, targeted conditioning routines, and tools that take stresses off “worker athletes.”
“I don’t like to call it ergonomics, because when most companies think of ergonomics they think of engineering — redesigning the job. For what we do, I like to use the word ‘humanomics,’ which is helping the worker do things in a way that results in less stress on their body,” Halling said. “It may be that engineer-ing gets involved, but not everything involves a mas-sive re-design. The vast majority of what we come up with is things that the employers can deal with at a very low cost.”
Healthier WorkplacesBy Jay nehrKorn
Local companies keep the workforce healthy.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce50
healthcare
Area healthcare and insurance pro-viders have taken steps to make it easier for people in the South Central Kentucky region to be pro-
active in preserving their good health.The Medical Center’s Health & Wellness
Center, located in a new facility at 1857 Tucker Way, serves approximately 1,000 patrons per month, providing a variety of programs to help residents stay well, including health education programs, a variety of free and low cost screen-ings, nutritional therapy, programs for children and diabetics, support groups, and low-impact exercise classes. According to Director Linda Rush, the ability to empower people with information is what makes the center so valuable.
“The center is a health education resource designed to assist people in making healthy life-style choices,” she said. “We give them the tools, resources, and information they need to make
wise decisions, take care of themselves, and avoid a chronic illness.”
The center encourages a healthy lifestyle in people of all ages, with specifically tailored mem-bership programs reaching over 25,000 men, women, seniors, and children in the community. The WellNews quarterly newsletter reaches tens of thousands through mailings and the Internet.
Health insurance provider CMD Health gives their clients access to a variety of resources and services through their sister company ClubMD. The ClubMD concept includes health assess-ments, wellness coaching, predictive care, pre-ventive care, and weight management, as well as urgent care and other services traditionally offered by primary care providers. Information gathered through a comprehensive and continual view of the member’s health allows staff physicians and professionals to help them develop a lifestyle plan that manages and improves their health instead of
waiting for illness to strike. Since these services are offered without co-pays, deductibles, or other charges, club members are encouraged to follow through on that plan.
“What’s different about ClubMD is that any services provided in our facility do not cost the patient anything,” said ClubMD Member Services Administrator Valerie Carlin. “We don’t do any billing at our office, so they can see health coaches, dietitians, have X-rays, get infusions, and see a physician when they’re well or when they’re sick, and it’s not going to cost them anything.”
There are a number of other companies in the area, such as One Stop Wellness in nearby Auburn, that offer programs with a managed health approach. For a list of quality providers, search the keyword “wellness” on the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce online Buyer’s Guide at www.bgchamber.com.
By Jay nehrKorn
Working for WellnessHelping people be proactive about good health.
www.bgchamber.com 51
healthcare
There’s much to recommend Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky to new residents and retirees, and a lot of people are taking notice.
Named a “Top 10 Value Town for Retirees” by Forbes and included on TopRetirement.com’s 2011 list of the “Best Places to Retire,” Bowling Green enjoys a growing reputation as a retirement hotspot. TopRetirement.com says Bowling Green is “just big enough to offer the excitements of a small city [and] small and Midwestern enough to have lower than average costs of living.”
AARP studies are finding that many Americans do not want to be segregated from the general population and enjoy remaining in the thick of things. Seniors value intellectual stimulation and want to be somewhere where they can take classes or attend lectures and plays. A number of reasons are cited for the Bowling Green’s desirability:
The presence of WKU, which brings a •college-town ambience as well as a num-ber of cultural and sports opportunities to the region. Additionally, WKU waives all tuition charges for any Kentucky resident 65 years or older who enroll in classes for credit or audit.An amazing cultural scene, including the-•atre, symphony, an array of festivals and events, and the soon-to-open SKyPAC.Abundant recreational activities, including •several parks, seven golf courses, profes-sional baseball, and more.Family-friendly fun and educational attrac-•tions like Beech Bend Park, Lost River Cave and Valley, the Historic Railpark and Museum, and more.Excellent preservation of historic sites.•A revamped and growing downtown and •great shopping and dining. TopRetirement.com says Bowling Green has “one of the highest concentrations of restaurants per capita of any city in America.”Outstanding medical facilities.•
Making a transition from one’s personal home has always been a giant step. Today, millions of Americans are now experiencing
the joys of retirement communities that offer fewer daily responsibilities and greater well-ness activities. Management of improved levels of care now make it possible for senior adults to remain independent and active. As more and more retirees choose South Central Kentucky, they can be assured that area facilities are in place to meet their needs. TopRetirement.com says that the community is “developing rapidly with upscale retirement communities aimed at active adults.”
By laura WilCoxen
Retiring in South Central KentuckyBowling Green enjoys a growing reputation as a retirement hotspot.
BOWLING GREEN RETIREMENT VILLAGE offers residents a warm and friendly community with recreational activities, volunteer outreach programs, lunch and learn sessions, and worship services. A variety of social activities — planned and coordinated by a full-time staff of activity professionals — ensure plenty of opportunities to enjoy all that South Central Kentucky has to offer.
Bowling Green Retirement Village270-842-4087 • www.bgrv.com
Bowling Green Towers270-842-4215
Chandler Park Assisted Living270-842-2626 www.chandlerparkassistedliving.com
Massey Springs Senior Living270-842-0004 www.masseyspringsseniorliving.com
Morningside Assisted Living270-746-9600 www.morningsideassistedliving.com
Village Manor/ Christian Health Center270-796-6643 www.christiancarecommunities.com
Retirement Centers in Bowling Green
Bowling Green was
named a “Top 10 Value
Town for Retirees” by Forbes and
was included on
www.TopRetirement.com’s 2011
list of the “Best Places
to Retire.”
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce52
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worship
www.bgchamber.com 53
worship
F rom partnering with area schools to provide needed support to students to maintaining worship and service pro-grams targeted especially for younger
parishioners, local congregations are focused on building a strong youth community.
Bowling Green Christian Church enjoys a special relationship with Potter Gray Elementary School that goes well beyond the classroom.
“We provide school supplies to classrooms at the beginning of the year, as well as put-ting on three events for outreach,” said Jared Graves, youth and young adult minister for Bowling Green Christian Church. “Fallapalooza is a fall festival and ‘trunk for treats.’ Project PG Christmas Breakfast includes our Angel Tree outreach, which provides Christmas presents to students in need. Lastly, we host a spring movie night for families.”
The congregation also partners with Teen Angel to collect Christmas gifts for teens, pro-vides speakers for school events, and more. Bowling Green Christian Church also hosts social activities that not only provide a fun setting, but also a chance for contemplation.
“Our youth meet on Sunday nights for Reignite,” Graves said. “This is a time for fun and games, but also a look at our faith and how it should affect our lives.”
Youth outreach programs teach kids to con-tinue the community service mission.
“One of our emphases is to be Christ where you are,” Graves noted. “We are blessed to have many youth involved in athletics, drama, bands, and other community organizations. We take frequent trips to the Salvation Army to help serve dinner and have helped with places like Hope Harbor, Village Manor, Barren Heights Retreat, and Bright Life Farms.”
Broadway United Methodist Church works with students at T.C. Cherry Elementary, provid-ing mentoring, homework help, and more.
“T.C. Cherry is in Broadway’s backyard,” said John David Ryan, community involvement min-ister. “We began a relationship with the principal, administration, and parents, asking them what was needed and what would make the biggest impact on a child’s life. One of the answers that arose was mentoring.”
Nearly 50 adult members of the Broadway United Methodist Church serve as mentors to students at T.C. Cherry, going into the school for an hour once a week to have lunch with a child, help out with homework, read with a child in the library, or just spend quality time.
The youth members at Broadway United Methodist also work with school-aged kids through the Tuesday afternoon Homework Helpers program. Through the program, which is led by high-school-age church members and youth leaders, third, fourth, and fifth grade stu-dents can get some extra help after school.
“They have snacks and play games, but the majority of the time is spent on helping with homework in a creative way,” said Ryan.
Further, the church partners with child-focused community service programs like Backpacks for Bowling Green, and youth mem-bers often serve during spring and fall breaks.
“Through Love BG, our youth partner with a nonprofit that needs help,” Ryan said. “For instance, they painted the preschool building at the International Center last year.”
Holy Spirit Catholic Church is directly involved in the education of area youth as a sponsoring parish of St. Joseph School, a pri-vate, accredited K–8 Catholic school in Bowling Green. Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2011, St. Joseph offers a well-rounded, challenging, faith-based educational experience for both Catholic and non-Catholic students. A rigorous academic curriculum is supplemented by sports, activities, and community service programs.
Holy Spirit has seen increasing participation in its Youth Ministry Group, with programs that combine fun with service.
“We try and take part in a large mission trip every year, and we are always looking for things we can do locally,” said Matthew Keyser, youth coordinator for Holy Spirit. “Our youth always enjoy getting together with other Catholic youth from around our diocese for concert events. Several have been held at our youth camp.”
Holy Spirit is also working to craft an out-reach program that will instill the values of every-day service in the youth of the congregation.
“We are dividing into small teams to develop relationships with agencies that need help on a regular basis,” said Keyser. “We feel building a relationship will help make service a part of the youth’s everyday life, instead of ticking off so many hours for this requirement or another.”
Holy Spirit’s youth outreach extends beyond the church walls and the St. Joseph campus.
“We have youth at Holy Spirit from at least eight high schools in the area,” said Keyser. “We visit Fellowship of Christian Athletes programs and are always looking for opportunities to support Meet at the Pole programs [gathering at the flagpole on school campuses for prayer]. We always welcome anyone to come and visit, whether they are Catholic or not.”
Church-School ConnectionsBy laura WilCoxen
Focused on building a strong youth community.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce54
worship
Bowling Green Christian Church1912 Smallhouse Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-6231 www.bowlinggreenchristian.org
Bowling Green First Assembly1423 Scottsville Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-0223 www.bgfafamily.com
Broadway United Methodist Church1323 Melrose Street Bowling Green, KY 42104 270 843-3942 www.broadwayunited.org
Christ Episcopal Church1215 State Street Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-843-6563 www.cecbg.com
Cornerstone Church940 Bryant Way Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-904-4454 www.cornerstonebg.org
Crossland Community Church600 U.S. 31-W Bypass, Suite 180 Bowling Green, KY 42103 270 842-4428 www.crosslandchurch.org
Eastwood Baptist Church500 Eastwood Avenue Bowling Green, KY 42103 270-842-7867 www.eastwoodbc.org
First Baptist Church621 E. 12th Avenue Bowling Green, KY 42101 270 842-0331 www.firstbaptistbg.org
Grace & Peace Presbyterian923 College Street, Suite 200 Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-799-0176 www.gracepeacebg.com
Hillvue Heights Church3219 Nashville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-842-0012 www.hillvue.com
Holy Spirit Catholic Church4754 Smallhouse Road Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-842-7777 www.holyspiritcatholic.org
LifeHouse Church1657 Walden Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 270-991-2977 www.lifehousebg.wordpress.com
Living Hope Baptist Church1805 Westen Avenue Bowling Green, KY 42104 270-843-9462 www.livinghopewired.com
Presbyterian Church1003 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 2011. Information about other worship facilities, including reaching various religions and creeds, is available at www.bgky.org.
Area Congregations
www.bgchamber.com 55
entertainment & culture
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce56
entertainment & culture
On March 10, 2012, Bowling Green will welcome the newest jewel in its downtown crown with the opening of the Southern Kentucky Performing
Arts Center, or SKyPAC. The center’s inaugural event will be the culmination of a broad team effort to create a space that will not only be a dazzling venue for the performing arts, but an inviting place open to the community for special events, celebra-tions, education, and contemplation.
SKyPAC’s showpiece is an 1,800-seat, state-of-the-art performance hall — the largest in South Central Kentucky — which will host not only Broadway musicals and other national traveling shows, but will also serve as home to Orchestra Kentucky. A 200-seat studio theater will house more intimate productions, while multi-functional rehearsal halls and classrooms will be available for performers and students. Outdoor produc-tions “under the stars” will also be an option in SKyPAC’s amphitheater. A multi-use arts facility, SKyPAC also features an art gallery to exhibit the works of local and regional artists.
Executive Director Tom Tomlinson comes to SKyPAC from the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta. He looks forward to making SKyPAC a driving force not only for the arts, but for the betterment of the community.
“I believe the arts change people’s lives,” Tomlinson said. “SKyPAC is not just a building or just a performance. It is serving as a critical anchor in an ever-growing, ever-changing downtown. It is
partnering with educators and systems to enhance the way students learn and how they perform. The arts provide a mirror of who we are and help us understand how we can become better.”
SKyPAC’s facilities, particularly the stage with its rigging and fly space and the star, cast, and chorus dressing rooms, are large enough to accom-modate any touring show, including Broadway productions. This should draw more national performances and artists to Bowling Green.
“SKyPAC gives them a new market and increased audiences,” Tomlinson noted. “No mat-ter how old, successful, or popular it is, a touring production always needs new markets. We will learn over the next few seasons what our market can absorb.”
The community will be able to enjoy the use of SKyPAC facilities as well.
“Basically, all public spaces can be rented,” said Dawn McGriff, development and marketing direc-tor for SKyPAC. “That includes the Performance Hall, the Studio Theater, two rehearsal halls for smaller meetings, and the Lobby. Further, the facility includes a large catering kitchen to accom-modate food and beverage needs of meetings and events; currently, the plan is to contract with three caterers so that renters have a range of choices of menu items and prices. The booking and events director is a senior staff member at SKyPAC, which indicates the importance the executive director and the board have placed on community use and the positive experience we demand for renters.”
SKyPAC announced its inaugural season sched-ule on November 1, 2011, at a press conference at the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce offices. The gala variety of acts includes
Broadway Series: • Damn Yankees, Young Frankenstein, CATS, and Mamma Mia!Nashville North Series: Sam Bush, • Nashville Backstage, Riders in the SkyLegends Series: Leon Russell and The Blues •Brothers ReviewOctane Series: Jon Reep, comedian, and Mike •Super, magician and illusionistFamily Fun Series: Golden Dragon Acrobats•Special Event Series: • Sesame Street Live and Riverdance
South Central Kentucky is already grasping the new experiences offered with both hands.
“An extremely gratifying signal that pent-up demand and excitement exists within the commu-nity is the fact that we sold $95,000 of tickets in the first three days of the Ticket Office’s opening,” McGriff said. “Sales continue to be strong, exceed-ing our expectation by at least 50 percent.”
SKyPACA dazzling venue for the arts and an inviting place for the community.
By laura WilCoxen
For more information on SKyPAC and the 2012 season, including ticket information, visit www.theskypac.com.
InFORmAtIOn
www.bgchamber.com 57
entertainment & culture
Though it’s only 12 years old, Orchestra Kentucky has already made an enormous impact in the South Central Kentucky community,
drawing more than 13,600 paying audience members in the 2010–11 season and reaching tens of thousands more through free entertain-ment and educational programs.
For Orchestra Kentucky, it’s about being ambassadors for music — all music. Performances embrace a variety of styles of music to appeal to a diverse audience, with pro-grams featuring everything from opera to blue-grass to rock ’n’ roll. Programs have blended Handel’s Messiah with Mannheim Steamroller Christmas arrangements and a bluegrass com-position with Copland’s Appalachian Spring. The 2011–12 Retro Series featured the music of Motown, ABBA, and the British Invasion, while the VIP Series ranged from Frank Sinatra and Henry Mancini to Bizet and Shostakovich. The special Rated K for Kids event included classic music from family films both new and traditional, including Willy Wonka, Harry Potter, and Toy Story.
Orchestra Kentucky continues to broaden the range and depth of offerings. Subgroups include Orchestra Kentucky Chorale; The Rewinders, a nine-member band performing hits from the ’60s and ’70s; and the Chamber Players. Community outreach efforts include the Youth Orchestra, the String Academy, and informal pre-concert chats with Maestro Jeffrey Reed. There are also school-day presentations. Thanks to the generosity of donors, over 300 low-income children and adults experienced an Orchestra Kentucky concert last season as part of the Arts Access for All program.
In March 2012, Orchestra Kentucky became the resident orchestra for the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center. Concerts are now presented in SKyPAC’s state-of-the-art Performance Hall.
The Symphony at WKU, Kentucky’s lon-gest-running orchestra, has been entertaining enthusiastic audiences since 1908. Performances by The Symphony range from classical favorites such as Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, Ravel’s Bolero, and Rachmaninoff’s famous piano con-certos to Holiday Pops in the newly restored
Van Meter Hall. The Symphony also performs popular music from Disney and Charlie Brown at Jackson’s Orchard and other unique locations. The Baker Chamber Players (WKU’s Artist String Faculty) present a Chamber Music Concert Series at the Chandler Memorial Chapel and the Baker Arboretum and Downing Museum.
Originally named the Normal School Orchestra, The Symphony is now a cooperative venture between Western Kentucky University and a board of directors made up of commu-nity leaders and WKU Music Department fac-ulty. The Symphony provides talented student musicians and professionals the opportunity to perform in an orchestral setting that contributes to the cultural enrichment of South Central Kentucky. The Symphony Soiree and Parties of Note are annual fundraisers featuring food, fun, spirits, and unique surprises.
Dr. William Scott, the Baker Professor of Music, is the music director for The Symphony. During his tenure, the full-time string faculty at WKU has tripled, a Pre-College Strings Program for children has been developed, and there are now orchestral strings classes being taught in 17 of the area’s public schools. Dr. Scott received the Potter College of Arts & Letters Award for Service for his work in establishing strings pro-grams in the Warren County and Bowling Green City Schools.
Area OrchestrasIt’s about being ambassadors for music.
By laura WilCoxen
For more information on Orchestra Kentucky, including season performances, purchasing tickets, and more, visit www.orchestrakentucky.com. To learn more about The Symphony at WKU, including season performances, concert venues, and ticket purchase, visit www.bgwso.org.
InFORmAtIOn
entertainment & culture
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce58
I n May 1861, Kentucky declared its neu-trality in the War Between the States. But the commonwealth — and particularly, Bowling Green — proved too valuable a
prize for Kentucky to be left in peace. A vital transport hub, Bowling Green’s rail-
road connected to the upper South’s major cities as well as to the industrial cities on the Ohio. Further, the Barren River provided a valuable waterway. On Sept. 16, 1861, 5,000 Confederate troops disembarked from 10 locomotives and 200 box cars in Bowling Green, beginning a brief but significant occupation that saw the city named the Confederate State Capital of Kentucky by a provisional government formed by a delega-tion of Southern sympathizers. The Confederates abandoned Bowling Green just five months later to Union forces, who occupied the city, guarding the railways and the river, for the remainder of the war.
Bowling Green is celebrating its rich Civil War history with a series of Sesquicentennial events and exhibits, both one-time and ongoing. Festivities kicked off on Sept. 17, 2011, nearly 150 years to the day after Confederate forces disembarked in the city and took up occupation. The commemoration included activities and pre-sentations at the Kentucky Museum, Riverview at Hobson Grove, and the Historic Railpark and Train Museum at the L&N Depot. Unique tours of Lost River Cave focused on smoke writings left
behind by soldiers, while costumed re-enactors took bolder folk on a Civil War Ghost Tour in downtown Bowling Green. While this initial event focused on Confederate history, a spring event is planned that will focus on the history of the much longer Union occupation.
“Area attractions and historians are planning another set of commemorative events for late March, featuring cannon fire, an encampment, demonstrations, themed activities and more,” said Marissa Butler, public relations director for the Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Special programs and speakers will continue being offered at a variety of venues throughout the Sesquicentennial. And the Civil War Discovery Trail through Bowling Green is something that visitors and residents can enjoy at any time, following the self-guided tour brochure to 18 significant sites while listening to an accom-panying audio tour.”
Special exhibits at both the Historic Railpark and Train Museum and the Kentucky Museum honor the region’s role in the Civil War. At the Kentucky Museum’s “A Star in Each Flag: Conflict in Kentucky” exhibit, visitors can walk through a simulated campsite, view a fabricated slave cabin and original copy of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, and examine period artifacts. Permanent exhibits at the Railpark and Train Museum include “The Great Locomotive Chase,” based on the capture of the Confederate locomotive
The General, and “Lincoln, the Civil War and the Railroad,” containing rare Matthew Brady Civil War railroad photos.
Some Significant SitesLost River Cave and Valley: • Served as a camp for both Union and Confederate troops in the area. Fort Lytle (WKU Campus):• Located at the summit of the hill on WKU’s campus. The Confederate army began construction of this fort, but it was completed by Union forces.“Civil War Occupations” Historical •Marker (Fountain Square Park): Describes the occupations of both Confederate and Union troops. A stone monument in Fountain Square Park recognizes Bowling Green as the Confederate Capital of Kentucky.Riverview at Hobson Grove Historic •House Museum: During occupations by Confederate and Union troops, the house’s foundation and walls were used as a fort and the basement as an ammunition depot. House is fully restored and open to the public.Fort Webb Park:• Now located in a city park, this Confederate fort has retained its original configuration. A historical marker and an interpretive panel explain its unusual earth-works and include a map of Civil War fortifi-cations in Bowling Green.Mt. Moriah Cemetery:• An African-American graveyard established in the late 1870s, it includes several graves of Union soldiers. Fairview Cemetery:• The Confederate Monument, located in the cemetery’s older section, was dedicated in 1876 before a crowd of 12,000. Outside the cemetery gates, a marker identifies Butler County native Thomas Henry Hines, a spy once known as the most dangerous man of the Confederacy.
Sesquicentennial EventsBy laura WilCoxen
Celebrating a rich Civil War history.
www.visitbgky.com/civilwar/Visit the Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors
Bureau’s special Civil War Web page for more
details on all the Sesquicentennial events and
a full list of sites and attractions related to the
region’s Civil War legacy. Check in frequently, as
new events will be posted as they approach.
InFORmAtIOn
On the evening of the 12th General Mitchell learned that the rebels were preparing to evacuate Bowling Green, and had already shipped their artillery to Nashville. He immediately determined to march upon them....
Harper’s Weekly, March 15, 1862“
“
entertainment & culture
www.bgchamber.com 59
AprilSouthern Kentucky readers rejoice every •third weekend in April with the arrival of the Southern Kentucky Book Fest. This fundraiser promotes literacy in the community and features presentations, readings, and book signings by nationally known adult and children’s book authors and illustrators. www.sokybookfest.org
A celebration of historic Scottsville, Jacksonian •Days features a week of food, music, crafts, and lots of fun, including bass fishing and golf tournaments, a street fair, kiddie carnival, 5K run, and more. Contact the Scottsville Chamber for more information at 270-237-4782.
The National Corvette Museum starts its engine •each April with the first event of the season, the C5/C6 Bash. This reunion for the owners of fifth- and sixth-generation Corvettes includes road tours, seminars, car shows, unveilings, and more. www.corvettemuseum.org
MAyThe • Mini Corvette Challenge celebrates its 18th running in 2012. This fast and fun fundraiser for Junior Achievement features racing go-karts with four-cycle engines, dressed up with Corvette bodies specially painted to represent sponsoring businesses. The event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the South Central Kentucky Junior Achievement program. www.jaforkids.com
Bands and beauty queens highlight the parade •during the Adairville Strawberry Festival, while carnival rides and live entertainment make for family-friendly fun. A re-enactment of the famous May 30, 1806, duel between Charles Dickinson and future president Andrew Jackson adds history and heritage, and, of course, there are plenty of delicious strawberry dishes to enjoy. Contact the Logan County Chamber of Commerce at 270-726-2206 for more information.
The Bowling Green Kiwanis Club’s • AllAmerican Soap Box Derby — the third-largest such event in the world — is held at a state-of-the-art, specially built track at Phil Moore Park. Kids compete in racers they’ve built themselves, with winners having the chance to race in the world championship in Akron, Ohio. Celebrating 15 years in 2012, the event raises funds for child-focused charities. www.bgkiwanis.org/soapbox
JuneA celebration of Scottish and Irish traditions •and cultures, the Glasgow Highland Games is usually held the first weekend in June at Barren River Lake State Park. The Ceilidh (pronounced “Kay-lay,” a feast that includes music and dancing), traditional games and feats of strength, pipe and drum music, and a Tartan Ball highlight this event, which also includes crafts and food. www.glasgowhighlandgames.com
Beech Bend Raceway will host the 10th annual •Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion in 2012. Drag racing, a reception, and the Show ’N’ Shine are highlights, while enthusiasts enjoy the roar of engines at Cacklefest, a gathering of classic drag race machines named for the cacophony made when all the drag racers are idling at once. www.museum.nhra.com
JulyThe • Green River Catfish Festival is a truly American celebration of independence and the joys of small-town living. Held in Morgantown, the event features a carnival, music, a cruise-in, pageants, dancing, and a Fourth of July fireworks extravaganza. Of course the highlight is the fishing tournament — the biggest one that doesn’t get away wins a $50,000 prize! www.morgantown-ky.com
Sponsored by the Bowling Green Jaycees, the •Southern Kentucky Fair features a midway, pageants, livestock shows, demo derby, live music, great food, and all the familiar, fun features of the fair. The weeklong event is held at the fairgrounds in Lampkin Park, and proceeds benefit local causes. www.sokyfair.org
The city “Where Corvettes Are Born” welcomes •America’s sportscar home each year as the host of the National Corvette Homecoming, held at the Sloan Convention Center. Enthusiasts can view hundreds of Corvettes, from vintage ’50s models all the way up to the high-tech ’Vettes of today. Vendor swap meets, an all-Corvette parade, car shows, and more make this an event no car lover should miss. www.corvettehomecoming.com
AuguStHeld annually in honor of Bowling Green’s famous •native son and dessert icon, the Duncan Hines Festival features a baking contest. But it’s more than just a sweet treats celebration — events include music, art, kids’ activities, and plenty of fun, with proceeds benefiting worthy causes. www.duncanhinesfestival.com
When the New Grass Revival formed in Bowling •Green in the 1970s, they fused traditional bluegrass with contemporary and sophisticated musical elements, creating a whole new style dubbed “newgrass” in the band’s honor. The three-day International Newgrass Festival, started in 2009, continues to entertain fans with both newgrass pioneers and the genre’s best new musicians. www.newgrassfestival.com
Festivals & EventsThere’s a wide variety of family fun to be had at area festivals.
By laura WilCoxen
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce60
entertainment & culture
SepteMberCelebrated the Saturday before Labor Day, the •Monroe County Watermelon Festival includes a parade, arts and crafts, quilt and art shows, 5K and fun runs, a cruise-in, live music, great food, a nighttime street dance, and lots of watermelon-related fun. Thousands converge on Tompkinsville to help celebrate the event. www.monroeky.com
Sample the city’s cosmopolitan flavor at the •Bowling Green International Festival, featuring authentic foreign cuisine, unique cultural performances and events, music, and a variety of booths featuring displays and merchandise. The event is held the last Saturday in September at Circus Square Park. www.bginternationalfest.com
Sponsored each year by Scotty’s Contracting and •Stone, the Festival of Sand sees teams competing to build the most “sandsational” sculpture. Participants and admirers alike can enjoy games, music, and food. Cash prizes are given to the first, second, and third place winners, and proceeds benefit Kids on the Block. www.kykob.org
One of the region’s most colorful events, • Balloons, Tunes and BBQ, sponsored by U.S. Bank, is held at the Bowling Green/Warren County Regional Airport. Attractions include a carnival, kids’ activities, live music, tempting BBQ, and dozens of beautiful hot air balloons. Among the most popular portions of the festival is the Friday evening Balloon Glow, held at dusk. Net proceeds benefit the United Way of Southern Kentucky. www.balloonstunesbbq.com
OCtOberCelebrating 33 years in 2012, the • Medical Center 10K Classic is a “Race for Everyone,” featuring not only the main race but also a 10K wheelchair race, a 5K run/walk, a 1.5-mile fun walk, and the Children’s Classic. Additional highlights include a health and fitness expo, pasta party, and entertainment for spectators and participants alike. www.themedicalcenter10kclassic.com
With some 35 events taking place over seven •days, the Logan County Tobacco and Heritage Festival has something for everyone. The 56-year-old event includes pancake breakfasts, a golf scramble, parades, games, food, carnival rides, historic walking tours, a craft show and flea market, live entertainment, pageants, and much more. www.loganchamber.com
The • Metcalfe County Pumpkin Festival features arts and crafts, games, delicious food, lots of kids’ activities, and dance on the courthouse lawn in beautiful Edmonton. Contests for the largest, best decorated, and best carved pumpkins The event is sponsored by the Edmonton-Metcalfe County Chamber of Commerce. www.metcalfechamber.com
nOveMberThe National Corvette Museum starts the •holiday season off with Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Kids will enjoy stories, crafts, holiday activities, and photos with Santa in his souped-up sled — a red Corvette! Reservations are recommended. www.corvettemuseum.com
DeCeMberThe Historic Railpark and L&N Depot hosts the •Festival of Trains, featuring several scale model railroads as well as museum and railcar tours, photos with Santa, and more. www.historicrailpark.com
Celebrate the holidays in an old-fashioned way •with Christmas in Kentucky at the Kentucky Museum, a free, family-friendly event offering children’s activities, carolers, ornament making, gingerbread sampling, and a visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Big Red.
SHELTON &ASSOCIATESLLP CPAS• Accounting• Auditing• Tax• Business Valuations• Litigation Support• Forensics
Jerry W. SheltonCPA/ABV/CFF, CVA
Managing Partner
Craig E. HellerCPA/MTX
Partner
842-9620181 West Professional Park Ct.
Bowling Green, KY 42104
Jerry SheltonRes. 1341 Drakes Ridge Ln.
Bowling Green
842-7298
Craig Heller703 Highland Way
Bowling Green
842-1485
www.bgchamber.com 61
chapter header
Recreation & Tourism
recreation & tourism
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce62
recreation & tourism
W hen the final Kentucky tour-ism numbers for the year 2010 were released by the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage
Cabinet in May 2011, it was an affirmation of what Warren County hospitality professionals already knew: South Central Kentucky tourism is on the rise. Warren County saw an increase of 5.8 percent and ranked fifth out of the 120 coun-ties in the state in total tourism expenditures.
A number of factors can be credited for the 2010 growth, including major tourism events, expansion at area attractions, and new exhibits at local museums such as the National Corvette Museum, Historic Railpark & Train Museum, and the Kentucky Museum.
All indications are that once the final 2011 tourism statistics are released, they will reveal yet another year of solid growth for the indus-try in the “Caves, Lakes, and Corvettes” region.
According to occupancy data provided by Smith Travel Research, Warren County hotel occupancy for the 12 months leading up to September 2011 increased 2.3 percent, and the average daily rate was up 2.2 percent. Once again, the variety of the region’s many attractions is a key component to its success.
“The South Central Kentucky area continues to be a popular destination for visitors, due in part to our natural beauty and friendly com-munities, but also because of our diverse offer-ings,” explained Executive Director Vicki Fitch of the Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “With planes, trains, and automobiles for Dad, historic districts and boutique shopping for Mom, a charming downtown square for the grandparents, as well as caves and a recently expanded amusement park for the kids, we have attractions that appeal to the whole family at a great value. The overall region is growing steadily, as is our tourism infrastructure, with new exhib-its or expansions at nearly every visitor destina-tion. Plus, a variety of unique and traditional meeting space is increasingly attracting groups from all across the region.”
That relationship between the area’s attrac-tions and the availability of quality meeting spaces will continue to be a key component for future tourism growth, as more and more organi-zations see Bowling Green as a place where they can plan events that mix business with pleasure. Meeting facilities at the Sloan Convention Center, the Knicely Conference Center at WKU, and the National Corvette Museum provide venues suited for a broad spectrum of gatherings and put participants just minutes away from a minor league baseball park, interesting museums, cave tours, and much more. Simply put, it’s a win-win scenario for event organizers.
Continuous improvement of the tools used to communicate the area’s many offerings will also continue to play a part in the growth of tour-ism in South Central Kentucky. See for yourself and learn more about tourism opportunities in the region by visiting the Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau’s redesigned visitbgky.com website, as well as the Community section of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce website at www.bgchamber.com.
Tourism on the RiseWarren County ranked fifth out of the 120 counties in the state in total tourism expenditures in 2010.
By Jay nehrKorn
Warren County ranked
fifth out of the 120 counties
in the state in total tourism
expenditures.
www.bgchamber.com 63
recreation & tourism
Some call it caving. Others call it spelunk-ing. The British refer to it as “potholing.” However you say it, cave exploration has intrigued people for millennia, and
South Central Kentucky has long been a premier destination for those fascinated by underground caverns. Area caves just a short drive from Bowling Green offer challenging subterranean adventures, easy walking tours, and Kentucky’s only underground boat tour.
“Visitors since the 1800s have come to Kentucky to see Mammoth Cave, Diamond Caverns, and other caves in the surrounding area,” said professional cave photographer Gary Berdeaux of Diamond Caverns. “Some people who don’t know much about caves might assume that if you’ve seen one cave you’ve seen them all, but I would challenge that. That state-ment is as accurate as saying if you’ve seen one bird you’ve seen them all. Caves each have their own unique character, much like a fingerprint, and they are all beautiful and unique unto themselves.”
The anchor for cave tourism in South Central Kentucky is the aptly named Mammoth Cave at Mammoth Cave National Park, offering up to 16 different guided and self-guided tours rang-ing in difficulty from easy to very strenuous. With nearly 400 miles of underground passage-ways and massive chambers, the subterranean labyrinth that makes up Mammoth Cave is of both ecological and historical significance.
Visitors to Mammoth Cave can also enjoy above-ground activities such as camping, hik-ing, and fishing in the rolling topography that makes up the park’s surface. The National Park Service is renovating the visitors center as well, creating space for a variety of exhibits. Due to be completed in mid-2012, the expanded center will provide a greater understanding of the cave itself, the park’s surface, and local history.
“It will be a place that people can walk through quickly and gain something, or where they can dwell and learn a great deal about Mammoth Cave and the park,” said Mammoth Cave National Park Public Information Officer Vickie Carson.
Minutes away, Cave City also has attrac-tions both above and below ground, including easy cave tours of less than an hour at Onyx Cave and Outlaw Cave as well as a re-created
Old West town at Guntown Mountain. Historic Diamond Caverns at nearby Park City was opened for rail-riding tourists in 1859, and its cathedral-like chambers and colorful calcite formations have enchanted thousands of visitors each year ever since.
“When you think about it, here’s a business that’s been doing the same thing safely and effectively for 153 years, and it has an appeal and mystique that has transcended time, gen-der, and nationality.” Berdeaux commented.
Located on the outskirts of Bowling Green, Lost River Cave also offers a unique expe-rience. Tours, which take place year-round, include an easy walk and an underground boat ride to explore the subterranean river that pow-ered an underground mill over 200 years ago.
Above ground, Lost River Cave includes the Wildflower Gifts fine gifts store, hiking trails, wetlands, and a unique butterfly habitat. Future developments include not only a prairie restoration project, but also the creation of the The Nature Center at Lost River Cave. With fun features for kids — including a “cave crawl” — the center will help children connect with the natural world.
“The Nature Center at Lost River Cave will provide a place for regular contact with nature; a place for unstructured play that is so impor-tant to building early childhood confidence in the outdoors,” Lost River Executive Director Rho Lansden explained.
Underground Wonderlands
“Caves each have
their own unique
character, much like
a fingerprint, and
they are all beautiful
and unique unto
themselves.”
By Jay nehrKorn
Premier destinations for those fascinated by underground caverns.
With nearly 400 miles of
underground passageways
and massive chambers, the
subterranean labyrinth that
makes up Mammoth Cave
is of both ecological and
historical significance.
Photo by Gary Berdeaux
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce64
recreation & tourism
T he National Corvette Museum has brought thrills to Corvette enthusiasts since its opening in 1994. The museum is located just a quarter mile from the GM Corvette Assembly Plant, where all of the world’s Corvettes have been built since the
plant located to Bowling Green in 1981. Visitors are encouraged to tour both the museum and the assembly plant.
The museum campus includes striking architecture with unique, sweep-ing lines inspired by the Corvette itself. Inside the 115,000-square-foot building, full-scale diorama displays, films, and automotive memorabilia tell
the story of the Corvette’s past, present, and future. There are more than 70 actual Corvettes on display, representing every era since 1953, as well as a number of one-of-a-kind concept designs.
Interactive exhibits for kids and adults include the popular “Pit Crew Challenge,” which allows guests to compete as part of a pit crew for a simulated race car. Thanks to a grant from the Kentucky Department of Transportation, the museum also has two educational driving simulators, designed to present a limitless number of scenarios that drivers could face. The museum is currently raising funds to build a world-class motorsports park directly across the interstate, giving drivers the chance to learn high-performance driving skills in a safe environment.
Other features include the Corvette Store, a research library, the 1950s-themed Corvette Café, and a conference center with banquet seating for up to 500 people. Corvette buyers can even arrange to take possession of their new car at the museum’s delivery area.
The National Corvette Museum will also host a variety of temporary and traveling exhibits during 2012, including a 50th anniversary tribute to the Corvette Z06, an exploration of the microscopic wonders of the biological world, a tribute to September 11, and “Country Music Stars and Cars.” Visit http://corvettemuseum.com for more information on the museum and on upcoming events.
Top shooting industry executives con-verged on Park Mammoth Resort and South Central Kentucky in July 2011 for FMG Publications’ annual Shooting
Industry Masters competition and the yearly presenta-tion of the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence Awards. The events allowed the community to show-case not only the Rockcastle Shooting Center, but also the whole region to an entire industry at once.
The epicenter of activity was the Rockcastle Shooting Center at Park Mammoth Resort, which hosted the Masters competition. A record-breaking 370 shooters representing 70 different companies participated, and Rockcastle was more than up to the task.
“We have 2,000 acres and numerous ranges for sporting clays, pistols, rifles, and archery, but what sets us apart is our infrastructure, includ-ing a 100-guest-room hotel and restaurants,” said Rockcastle CEO Nick Noble.
Russ Thurman of FMG Publications, publisher of Shooting Industry Magazine and the match direc-tor at the Masters, confirmed that Rockcastle and South Central Kentucky were a good fit for both the competition and the awards ceremony.
“We can say unequivocally that our experience was outstanding,” he said. “We selected Rockcastle not because it’s a great facility — which it is — or because it’s so large. It’s centrally located between two major airports, and Bowling Green had facilities for our Academy. But to be honest, we selected it because … from day one, when we made our initial tour, they made us feel welcome, and most certainly the Chamber was also extraordinarily accommodating.”
The Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence Awards ceremony took place on July 22 at the Sloan Convention Center. More than 425 shooting and hunting industry professionals attended. Over 100 volunteers from the Bowling Green area helped at the
events, and the Chamber of Commerce held a recep-tion at the National Corvette Museum on July 21.
The message by the Bowling Green Area Chamber during the reception was clear: ‘We are business-friendly, and when you look for a place where you can root your company, South Central Kentucky is fertile ground,” Noble said. “It was a strong message, and people were taking note. We had the chance to roll out the red carpet for them, and I think we hit a home run.”
It seems they did. FMG Publications announced in November 2011 that the Shooting Industry Masters will return to South Central Kentucky and Rockcastle Shooting Center in 2012.
By Jay nehrKorn
By Jay nehrKorn
Corvette Museum
Right on Target
Telling the story of the Corvette’s past, present, and future.
South Central Kentucky hits the bull’s-eye for shooting industry executives.
“We can say unequivocally that our
experience was outstanding.”
recreation & tourism
www.bgchamber.com 65
American Cave Museum/ Hidden river CaveLocated in Horse Cave, the museum and cave tours combine to give visitors an exciting look at cave science and local history. Three different tours ranging from easy to strenuous are offered year-round. www.cavern.org
Aviation Heritage park A memorial to all distinguished aviators who have called South Central Kentucky home, Aviation Heritage Park features a F-4D Phantom II 550, a Grumman F9F-5 Panther, and a Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star. Each plane represents the story of a local aviation hero. Tune in to FM Station 89.3 at the park to hear more about the aircraft and their pilots. www.aviationheritagepark.com
beech bend A family entertainment destination for over a century, Beech Bend offers rides, attractions, and shows that appeal to all ages, and celebrated expansions to its entertainment venues and Splash Lagoon water park in 2011. Camping facilities are available within walking distance, and racing enthusiasts enjoy an exciting schedule of drag racing and stock car events at nearby Beech Bend Raceway. www.beechbend.com
bowling green Hot rodsExperience minor league baseball at its best from April through August at Bowling Green Ballpark, with interactive games, promotions, giveaways, and more. The Hot Rods are the Class A Minor League affiliates of the Tampa Bay Rays. www.bghotrods.com
Chaney’s Dairy barnChaney’s is renowned for its vast selection of premium homemade ice cream flavors, but they also offer delicious homemade soups and sandwiches. Group tours of the working dairy farm or use of their meeting facilities are available by reservation. www.chaneysdairybarn.com
Diamond CavernsThis privately owned cave near Mammoth Cave National Park has thrilled visitors for over 150 years. State-of-the-art lighting illuminates beautiful calcite deposits, flowstone formations, and cathedral-like chambers. One-hour, guided tours are offered year-round. www.diamondcaverns.com
Dinosaur WorldGuests are greeted by a giant T-Rex at this Cave City attraction featuring life-size dinosaur and mammoth replicas in natural settings. Both fun and educational, the park includes a boneyard fossil dig for kids, movie cave, playground, picnic area, and a museum with actual dinosaur fossils. www.dinoworld.net
Jackson’s OrchardThis family-owned, 105-acre farm has over 11,000 apple, peach, and cherry trees. The orchard offers in-season specialty products throughout the year, as well as peach, apple, and pumpkin festivals. www.jacksonsorchard.com
Kentucky Down under Kentucky Down Under gives visitors the chance to go on an interactive walkabout and meet some of the Outback’s most interesting animals. www.kdu.com
Kentucky Museum Located on the campus of Western Kentucky University, the museum offers a thought-provoking look into Kentucky’s history, arts, and culture. Exhibits include a look at the life of Bowling Green native Duncan Hines, a study of the Civil War’s impact on Kentucky, and a furnished 1815 log house. www.wku.edu/museum
Historic railpark & train Museum at the l&n DepotThe Historic Railpark is a comprehensive experience in rail transportation history. Guests will enjoy two stories of interactive exhibits, vintage railroad equipment and artifacts, and the opportunity to climb aboard restored railcars dating back to the early and middle 1900s. www.historicrailpark.com
lost river Cave Enjoy Kentucky’s only underground boat tour, beautiful trails, an educational wetland, an enchanting butterfly habitat, and a fine gifts shop. www.lostrivercave.com
Mammoth Cave national parkWith nearly 400 miles of vast chambers and complex labyrinths, Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest known cave system. Tours for a variety of physical capabilities are available. The surrounding park offers beautiful scenery, camping, and recreational opportunities, and an expansion to the visitors center will be complete in mid-2012. www.nps.gov/maca
national Corvette MuseumThe National Corvette Museum offers interactive exhibits, displays of rare automotive memorabilia, and more than 70 Corvettes representing every era of “America’s sports car.” Visitors are encouraged to also tour the world’s only Corvette Assembly Plant, just a quarter mile away. www.corvettemuseum.org
riverview at Hobson groveThis beautiful house museum represents the Victorian Period of 1860–1890. Used as a munitions magazine by the Civil War troops who occupied Bowling Green, it is an official site on the Civil War Discovery Trail as well as a historic site on the National Register. Elegant and true to the period, the home is open for tours and is the site of several yearly events. www.bgky.org/riverview
South union Shaker village The restored 1824 Centre House at the historic site of the South Union Shaker Village displays scores of original artifacts and manuscripts, with furnishings exhibiting the high levels of Shaker craftsmanship. Just over a mile away, the 1869 Shaker Tavern, which was built by the Shakers as a hotel for railroad travelers, offers bed and breakfast accommodations and meeting space for gatherings. www.shakermuseum.com
yogi bear’s Jellystone Camp resortReserve a campsite or a cabin and join in on the fun. Attractions include an outdoor theater, a pool and waterslide, mini golf, themed weekends, fishing, bonfires, visits from Yogi Bear, and more. The resort is just four miles from the Mammoth Cave National Park entrance. www.jellystonemammothcave.com
barren river lake State resort parkwww.parks.ky.gov
guntown Mountainwww.mammothcave.com/guntown/
Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museumwww.mammothcave.com/guntown/wildlife.htm
riverWalk at Mitch McConnell parkwww.bgky.org/bgpr
South Central Kentucky AttractionsSouth Central Kentucky welcomes you to explore a host of family-friendly activities.
By Jay nehrKorn
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce66
recreation & tourism
Top 5 for ’12
Bowling Green Hot Rods
Bowling Green Parks & Recreation recommends:
Affordable entertainment for the whole family.
1. CROSSWINdS GOLF COuRSE This 18-hole, public course features over 6,500 yards of bermuda tees and fairways, challenging bunkers, and bentgrass greens. Major events for 2012 include the Pickens Amateur Championship, June 23–24; Rzepka Golf Classic, July 14; The ParMakers Invitational, August 4–5; and the Monie Beard Golf Classic, August 25.
2. LOVERS LANE SOCCER COMPLEx The soccer complex hosts SKY Soccer Club league play. Events include the yearly Kick or Treat Classic, which is scheduled for October 26–28 in 2012.
3. dISC GOLF The Bowling Green area offers a number of 18-hole destinations for disc golfers, including courses at Lovers Lane, Hobson Grove, Preston Miller, and Kerejakes Parks. Events for 2012 include the April Fools Tournament played March 31–April 1 and Nat’s Outdoor Sports Halloween Tournament on October 27–28.
5. THE SkATE PARk: The Bowling Green Skate Park is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and offers exclusive skating for kids 12 and under from 8 to 10 a.m.
4. CROSS COuNTRy MEETS: The 2012 Sun Belt Conference cross country championship will be held at Kereiakes Park on October 27, along with several local 5K runs and high school cross country meets throughout the year.
The Bowling Green Hot Rods pro-vide affordable family entertainment from April through Labor Day at their state-of-the-art downtown ball-
park. After competing in their inaugural season of 2009 in the South Atlantic League, the Hot Rods joined the Class A Midwest League in 2010 and are currently affiliated with the Tampa Bay Rays.
The Hot Rods are known for their creative promotional efforts, incorporating a variety of fun events for baseball fans each season. In
2011 they introduced Facebook Fans Night, the first of its kind in minor league baseball, allowing the team’s Facebook fans to customize the entire Hot Rods experience using the power of social media. Rewards included reduced ticket prices, several on-field activities, and a chance to vote on a variety of options, includ-ing uniform choices, game time, and food and merchandise specials.
A highlight of off-season activities is Axle’s Book Buddies. Hot Rods mascot Axle the Bear visits schools, challenging students to read five
books outside of their assigned classroom read-ing. Students who achieve their goal are recog-nized during one of the team’s Reading Program Nights at Bowling Green Ballpark.
“Axle’s Book Buddies is a great way to encourage reading to today’s youth,” said Brad Taylor, Hot Rods president. “We want kids to be excited about picking up a book. We’ve reached thousands of young readers so far and hope to continue doing the same in future seasons.”
Hot Rods Education Days allow schools to plan unique field trips and offer rewards for high achievers. The Hot Rods offer lesson plans that tie the game of baseball with several school subjects, including math and science. Schools throughout South Central Kentucky also raise
www.bgchamber.com 67
recreation & tourism
South Central Kentucky Public Parks & Recreation CentersFor more information about South Central Kentucky’s public recreation facilities, contact the organizations listed below.
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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 • • • •
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 • •
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 • • • • • • •
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce68
Index of Advertisers & Preferred Businesses
South Central Kentucky Public Parks & Recreation CentersFor more information about South Central Kentucky’s public recreation facilities, contact the organizations listed below.
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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
AccountAnt
BKD, LLP — Page 60400 E. Main St, Suite 200Bowling Green, KY 42102-1196(270) 781-0111 ................................ fax (270) 843-0359www.bkd.com
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 60181 West Professional Park CourtBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 842-9620 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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.
Adult cAre/Senior living
Bowling Green Retirement Village445 Middle Bridge RoadBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 842-5433www.bgrv.com
Independent and Full Assisted Living Apartments/SuitesWeekly Housekeeping24-Hour Emergency Response SystemBeauty Salon/Barber ShopTransportation to/from Doctor AppointmentsScheduled ActivitiesIndoor Heated Swimming PoolState Certified Assisted Living Community
Massey Springs Senior Living2945 Smallhouse RoadBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 842-0004leigh@goodworksunlimited.comwww.masseyspringsseniorliving.com
Massey Springs Senior Living offers assisted living and independent villa living for seniors. Assistance with ADL’s, meals, housekeeping/laundry, 24-hour emergency call system and a caring staff to meet all your needs.
Architect
Stengel Hill Architecture — Page 10613 W. Mian St.Louisville, KY 40202(502) 893-1875 ................................ fax (502) [email protected]
Founded in 1986, Stengel Hill Architecture is a full-service architecture firm based in Louisville, KY. Range of services include design, construction administration, master planning, life safety, interior design, and more.
ArtS & entertAinment
The Symphony at WKU500 East Main StreetBowling Green, KY 42101(270) [email protected]
The Symphony is a 100-year-old regional symphony that performs five concerts and presents three chamber music ensemble performances each year. Season sub-scription information and group discounts are available.
Attorney
English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP — Page 81101 College St.P.O. Box 770Bowling Green, KY 42102-0770(270) 781-6500 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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.
Kerrick Stivers Coyle PLC, Attorneys at Law — Page 241025 State St.P.O. Box 9547Bowling Green, KY 42102-9547(270) 782-8160 ................................ fax (270) 782-5856www.ksclawfirm.com
Areas of Practice: Insurance Law, Personal Injury-Defense, Personal Injury-Plaintiff, Real Estate, Business Transactions, Estate Planning, Trusts, Business Organizations, Copyright and Trademark.
recreation & tourism
www.bgchamber.com 69
index of advertisers
Linda B. Thomas, Attorney At LawHartland Place Suite A-1996 Wilkinson TraceBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 842-8737 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Business law, entity formation/administration/dissolu-tion, contracts, commercial and residential real estate transactions, planning and zoning, business succession strategies and adoptions.
Automotive - repAir
Lee Myles Transmissions & Auto Care945 US 31 West By PassBowling Green, KY 42101(270) [email protected]
Lee Myles Transmissions & Auto Care specializes in transmission repair and rebuilding and can also handle most of your general auto care needs. ASE and AAA certified and BBB accredited.
BAtterieS
Batteries Plus1150 US 31-W By PassBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 393-8880 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
America’s Battery Experts for:• Emergency Lighting• Keyless Entry• Cell/Cordless Phone• Auto/Truck• Laptop• UPS Backup System• Camera & Video• And Much More!Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.Saturday 8 a.m.–5 p.m
Builder & reSidentiAl deSign
Gemini Homes, Inc. — Page 42Bowling Green, KY 42103(270) 782-8893 ................................ fax (270) 782-3908www.yourgeminihomes.comKelly Arnold, CGP - owner
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 42P.O. Box 23019Owensboro, KY 42304(270) 684-0639 ................................ fax (270) 683-8288www.jagoehomes.com
Yes You Can Build Your Jagoe Home Where YOU Want, How YOU Want!Energy Star Certified BuilderIncredible 30-Year Fixed Rate, Free Closing CostArchitect & Custom Design Team
Building mAteriAlS
Lee Brick & Block — Page 42309 Dishman LaneP.O. Box 3245Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 781-9813 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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
chiroprActorS
Hillview Chiropractic — Page 342145 Nashville Rd.Bowling Green, KY 42103(270) 781-1111 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Specializing in Spinal Decompression, Sports Injuries, Auto Accidents and Worker’s Compensation. Offering state-of-the-art treatment for all types of pain. Certified Postural Exercise Professional.
churcheS
Holy Spirit Catholic Church — Page 544754 Smallhouse RoadBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 842-7777www.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.
conference center
Knicely Conference Center654 Campbell LaneBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 745-1908 ................................ fax (270) 745-1911www.edu/knicelycenter
The Knicely Conference Center is a comprehensive, all-occasion facility that creates the perfect environment for all types of educational and social functions, including seminars, workshops, trade shows, receptions, holiday gatherings.
conStruction/contrActorS
Bowling Green-Warren Co Contractors Licensing Board — Page 34P.O. Box 1268Bowling Green, KY 42102-1268(270) 781-3530 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]@bgky.orgwww.bgky.org/contractorslicensing
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 9859 Lovers LaneBowling Green, KY 42103-7903(270) 781-3375 ................................ fax (270) 782-5082www.bascky.com
Whether you are building or remodeling or just hoping to make a small change to improve your home, we encour-age you to Do Business With a Member.
Holland, Inc. — Page 397705 Russellville RoadP.O. Box 73Rockfield, KY 42274(270) 781-7044 ................................ fax (270) 781-5467
Excavating Contractor: We do site preparation, grade and drain, clearing, and stone.• Subdivisions • Commercial • Industrial • Residential
Scott & Murphy, Inc. — Page Outside Back CoverP.O. Box 2520Bowling Green, KY 42102-2520(270) 781-9944 ................................ fax (270) 782-2506www.scottandmurphy.com
CONCRETE & CIVIL CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTCurbs • 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
Scott, Murphy & Daniel, LLC — Page Outside Back CoverP.O. Box 2520Bowling Green, KY 42102-2520(270) 781-9944 ................................ fax (270) 782-2506www.scottmurphydaniel.com
• Design/Build Construction• Complete Engineering/Architectural/Design Services• Construction Management Services• Conventional General Contracting• Renovations/Conversions/Expansions
Stewart-Richey Construction, Inc. — Page 512137 Glen Lily RoadBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 842-5184 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
• Construction management• 18 in-house subcontractors• Commercial, industrial, and residential• Ranked nationally in the Top 25 Kirby dealers• Serving the community since 1973
country cluB
Indian Hills Country Club200 Indian Hills Dr.Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 842-0041John L. Campbell, CCMGeneral Manager .............................. fax (270) [email protected]
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! Visit us on Facebook.
dentiStry
Bluegrass Oral Health Center — Page 49546 Park Street, Suite 400Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 781-6161 ................................ fax (270) 781-6129www.bgohc.com
Our office provides comprehensive dental care in a friendly spa-like environment. Treatments include preven-tive 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 35546 Park St., Suite 100Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 781-3133 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
General Dentistry
economic development
Kentucky Transpark — Page 29c/o Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce710 College St.P.O. Box 51Bowling 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.
economic/induStriAl development
Logan Economic Alliance for Development — Page 27116 S Main St.Russelville, KY 42276(270) 726-9575 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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.
educAtion
Bowling Green Independent School District — Page 361121 Center St.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 746-2200 ................................ fax (270) 746-2205www.b-g.k12.ky.us
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 school, one high school, and one secondary alternative school.
The Center for Gifted Studies - WKU — Page 381906 College Heights Blvd. # 71031Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 745-6323 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]/gifted
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 30 years.
Gordon Ford College of Business at Western Kentucky University — Page 351906 College Heights Blvd. #11056Grise HallBowling Green, KY 42101-1056(270) 745-6311 ................................ fax (270) 745-3893www.wku.edu/business
The Gordon Ford College of Business at WKU offers undergraduate degrees in accounting, economics, finance, information systems, management and market-ing. Its graduate program offers the MBA and Masters in Applied Economics Degree.
Warren County Public Schools — Page 37303 Lovers LaneBowling Green, KY 42102(270) 781-5150 ................................ fax (270) 781-2392www.warrencountyschools.org
WCPS is a growing school district home to 23 schools, including the nation’s first Net Zero School as well as the largest school building in Kentucky.
Western Kentucky University — Page 331906 College Heights Blvd.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 745-0111www.wku.edu
WKU is a nationally prominent four-year institution with emphasis in undergraduate and graduate studies and relevant applied research. An inspiring faculty and unique Campus Spirit promote success and attract the nation’s best students.
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ElEctrical - contractors
B & R Electrical, Inc. — Page 34550 Kelly RoadBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 793-5698 ................................ fax (270) 793-9845www.br-electrical.com
• Industrial• Commercial• Construction• Engineering• Design• Maintenance
Bluegrass Electrical, Inc. — Page 341646 Morgantown RoadBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 781-8333 ................................ fax (270) 781-5113www.bluegrasselectric.com
Commercial and Industrial Electrical Contractors proudly serving the construction, maintenance, design, and machinery relocation needs of our community and region. The quality you expect — the service you deserve.
Industrial Electrical Contractors — Page 21121 Vanderbilt CourtP.O. Box 51566Bowling Green, KY 42103(270) 393-8466 ................................ fax (270) 393-8980www.iecbg.com
A commercial and industrial electrical contractor provid-ing construction, design, engineering and maintenance services statewide since 1999.
M&L Electrical, Inc-M&L Technical Systems6060 Scottsville RoadBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 781-0123 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Design-Build electrical and alarm/communications systems contractor serving the needs of commercial & industrial customers since 1975. Whether your project involves new construction or expansion; we will execute your project from concept through completion.
EnginEEring
Arnold Consulting Engineering Services, Inc — Page 171136 South Park DrP.O. Box 1338Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 780-9445 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
With fifty years experience in engineering, materials testing, surveying, landscape architecture and project development, our staff provides the knowledge and support needed to address complex problems in our changing world.
DDS Engineering, PLLC — Page 15148 Chester CourtBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 843-2247 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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 38 years of experience.
Landmark Engineering — Page 6183 St. Charles St.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 842-0812 ................................ fax (270) 842-0910www.landmarkengineering.net
Landmark Engineering offers a broad range of design services, including:Civil EngineeringLand SurveyingTransportation EngineeringMaterials TestingLand PlanningLandscape Architecture
EnginEEring/survEying
Cannon & Cannon, Inc. — Page 10730 Fairview Avenue, Suite A-5Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 843-2744 ................................ fax (270) 843-2720www.cannon-cannon.com
• General Civil Engineering• Field Surveying• Transportation & Traffic Design• Electrical Transmission & Distribution• Water/Wastewater• Gas Distribution• Stormwater Management• Residential/Commercial Site DevelopmentProviding the attention that each individual deserves.
EntErtainmEnt
Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center (SKyPAC) — Page 1601 College StreetP.O. Box 748Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 393-0080 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
The new, world-class SKyPAC presents a diverse perfor-mance season from September to early June. Serving as the region’s town hall, SKyPAC rents spaces for events from weddings to board meetings.
Financial
US Bank — Page 3500 E. Main St.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 745-7516 ................................ fax (270) 782-4912www.usbank.com
Imagine what you can do with all of US serving you. U.S. Bank
Financial institutions
Bank of Edmonson County — Page 25109 N. Main St.P.O. Box 99Brownsville, KY 42210(270) 597-2175 ................................ fax (270) 597-2573www.bankofedmonson.comBowling Green Branch6780 Louisville Rd(270) 793-0033
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.
Citizens First Bank — Page 251065 Ashley Street, Suite 150Bowling Green, KY 42103(270) 393-0700 ................................ fax (270) 393-0716www.citizensfirstbank.com
• Checking • Savings • Personal Loans• Business Loans • Mortgage Loans• Online Banking • Bill Pay• E-StatementsBowling Green • Franklin • GlasgowMunfordville • Horse Cave
Farmers National Bank — Page 391595 Veterans Memorial HighwayScottsville, KY 42164(270) 237-3141 ................................ fax (270) 237-3830www.farmersnationalky.com
• Commercial • Consumer • Auto• Home Equity Lines • Equipment • Mortgage • Construction • and More!
First Security Bank — Page 11018 Chestnut St.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 745-9436www.FirstSecurity.net
First Security Bank is a commercial bank with 5 Bowling Green area locations. Customer Service is our highest priority!
Service One Credit Union — Page 6422 College HeightsP.O. Box 51770Bowling Green, KY 42102270-796-8500 ................................. fax (270) [email protected]
When you join SOCU, you become a member of a full-service, not-for-profit financial cooperative whose primary mission is serving its members. We’re here to serve you!
South Central BankBowling Green Branches (270) 782-96961757 Campbell Lane805 Lehman Avenue3505 Louisville Road2710 Nashville Road5251 Scottsville Road1709 U.S. 31W BypassFranklin Branch (270) 586-9696204 South Main StreetFranklin, KY 42134www.southcentralbank.com
Hometown Banking ... there is a difference!Business or personal, taking care of our customers’ needs is what we are all about.
Flooring
Grinstead’s Flooring & Furnishings — Page 341353 Old Louisville Rd.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 843-1072 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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 54832 BroadwayBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 843-3111 ................................ fax (270) 842-1496www.jckirbyandson.com
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 CompanyBowling Green Gardens Cemetery
Johnson, Vaughn, Phelps Funeral Home, Inc. — Page 15901 Fairview Ave.P.O. Box 1114Bowling Green, KY 42102-1114(270) 843-4338 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
A family owned and operated funeral home. All profes-sional services, from embalming to final preparations, are preformed on location by our qualified staff.
garbagE collEction
Scott Waste Services, LLC — Page 351212 Eastland St.Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 783-4016 ................................ fax (270) 842-8198www.scottwaste.com
Providing residential, commercial, construction and industrial solid waste hauling services. Exclusive residential waste service provider for the City of Bowling Green.
govErnmEnt
Bowling Green-Warren Co Contractors Licensing Board — Page 34P.O. Box 1268Bowling Green, KY 42102-1268(270) 781-3530 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]@bgky.orgwww.bgky.org/contractorslicensing
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.
Kentucky Office for the Blind400 East Main St., Ste 302Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 746-7479 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Serving individuals with severe visual disabilities who want to enter, retain, or train for employment. Types of services for employment: Rehabilitation Technology, Job Analysis, Job Placement, Training, Career Counseling, etc.
HEaltHcarE
Corpcare1110 Wilkinson TraceBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 796-3590www.chc.net
Corpcare offers occupational health and wellness ser-vices designed especially for your company. Our goal is to minimize lost workdays, decrease workers’ compen-sation claims, and help your company have healthier employees. Call Corpcare today!
Graves-Gilbert Clinic — Page 46201 Park StreetBowling Green, KY 42102(270) 781-5111 ................................ fax (270) 780-4263www.ggclinic.com
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.
Greenview Regional Hospital1801 Ashley CircleBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 793-5104www.greenviewhospital.com
Greenview Regional Hospital is a 211-bed acute care medical/surgical facility that has served South Central Kentucky for 40 years. Greenview is recognized for its outstanding surgical care.
Hear Here — Page 481212 Woodhurst St.Bowling Green, KY 42104(270) 842-3277 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Hear Here is your premier hearing care center. Call today for your free hearing screening: 270-842-3277.
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Rivendell Behavioral Health Services — Page 471035 Porter PikeBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 843-1199 ................................ fax (270) 782-9996www.rivendelbehavioral.com
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.
Rosewood Health Care Center — Page 45550 High StreetBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 843-3296 ................................ fax (270) 782-9074www.rosewoodhealthcare.com
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 44250 Park St.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 745-1000www.TheMedicalCenter.org
Region’s healthcare leader, offering comprehensive services including The Heart Institute, Cancer Treatment Center, Primary Stroke Center, Obstetrics & Neonatology, Orthopaedics, Neuroscience Services, Surgical Weight Loss Program, and daVinci® Robotic Surgery.
Western Kentucky Diagnostic Imaging — Page 481635 Scottsville RoadBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 746-9500 ................................ fax (270) 901-2155www.wkdi.com
• X-Ray • CT Scan • Ultrasound • Fluoroscopy • Mammography• Nuclear Medicine • Echocardiography• Bone Density Evaluation• Stereotactic Breast Biopsy• Open MRI and High Field MRIMAKE US YOUR CHOICE FOR IMAGING AND EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE!
heAlth & fitneSS
Bowling Green Athletic Club1640 Scottsville RoadBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 793-9591 ................................ fax (270) 793-0597www.bgathleticclub.com
Health Club — women’s only side, coed side, children’s fun center, racquetball, indoor walking track, spin classes, fitness classes and basketball. Check out our new location on Nashville Rd. approximately 1 mile south of the Natcher Pkwy.
Hot Yoga Bowling Green — Page 49730 Fairview Avenue, Suite C-2Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) [email protected]
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!
heAlth food & vitAminS
Nutrition Center Health Food Store715 US 31 W. ByPassBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 846-1882 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
The area’s premier health food store featuring top-selling name-brand supplements and food as well as local prod-ucts. Locally owned and operated with knowledgeable, friendly staff. Certified Natural Health Professional on site.
heAring
Better Hearing Centers829 State St.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) [email protected]
Better Hearing Centers has been serving South Central Kentucky since 1967. They have helped thousands of people hear better across the state, and offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
heAting & cooling
Lyons Service Company — Page 311535 Memphis Junction RoadBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 781-8793 ................................ fax (270) 781-8401www.lyonservicecompany.com
Scheduled maintenance and emergency repairs on mechanical heating and cooling equipment. Installation of building automation controls. Repair of process chillers and broilers. Serving the residential, industrial, commer-cial, school and healthcare markets.
hotelS/motelS/Bed & BreAkfAStS
Candlewood Suites - Bowling Green KY — Page 7540 Wall St.Bowling Green, KY 42103(270) 843-5505 ................................ fax (270) 843-5506www.candlewoodsuites.com
Candlewood Suites is the guest-preferred leader in extended stay. As a member of the IHG family of brands, we participate in Priority Club Rewards, Green Engage and Clean the World.
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson- Bowling Green KY — Page 62535 Wall StreetBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 781-7200 ................................ fax (270) 781-6900www.countryinns.com/bowlinggreenky
The NEWEST hotel in town! We feature complimentary HOT breakfast, indoor pool and whirlpool, outstanding amenities, and spacious guest rooms. Located behind McDonald’s on Scottsville Road. I LOVE THIS COUNTRY!
Holiday Inn Express - Bowling Green KY — Page 7165 Three Springs Road Bowling Green, KY 42104(270) 843-3200 or(888) HOLIDAYwww.hiexpress.com
Holiday Inn Express opening Spring 2012. Free Express Start Hot Breakfast Bar ,Priority Club Rewards, Free Wireless Internet and Express Checkout. Call 270-843-3200 to make your reservations today!
Holiday Inn University Plaza — Page 311021 Wilkinson TraceBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 745-0088 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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.
La Quinta Inn & Suites 1953 Mel Browning St.Bowling Green, KY 42104(270) [email protected]
“We know just what any traveler needs to wake up on the bright side.”* FREE Hot Bright Side Breakfast* Indoor Pool / Hot Tub* Exercise Facilities* Smoke-Free* Free WI-FI
Ramada-Crossroads Restaurant4767 Scottsville Rd.Bowling Green, KY 42104(270) 781-3000 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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
JewelerS
Morris Jewelry — Page 57408 E. Main St.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 843-6103 ................................ fax (270) 843-6351www.morrisjewelrybg.com
Bowling Green’s oldest and finest jewelry store. On Fountain Square since 1881. Quality diamond jewelry at a fair price. Appraisals, custom designs, engraving and on-site repair (laser welding).
mAnufActuring
AEP Industries, Inc. — Page 27123 Williamette LaneBowling Green, KY 42101270-782-8026 ext 227 ..................... fax (270) 782-7478www.aepinc.com
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.
American Howa Kentucky, Inc. — Page 23445 Jody Richards DriveBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 563-4400 ................................ fax (270) 563-4439
Manufacturer of sunshades, dash insulators and other interior products for the automotive industry.
Bando USA, Inc. — Page 292720 Pioneer DriveBowling Green, KY 42101270-842-4110 ext [email protected]
Bando USA has been in Bowling Green since 1987. Our team of associates continually take pride in producing the highest quality power transmission belting for all our customers
CGS Machine & Tool, Inc. — Page 282750 Griffin Dr.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 783-3589 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
• Tool and Die• Conventional Machining• CNC Turning• CNC Milling• Wire EDM• Fabricating/Certified Welders• Special Machine Building• 2 Shifts• 24-Hour Emergency Service
Country Oven Bakery — Page 342840 Pioneer Dr.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 782-3200 ................................ 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 21One Fruit of the Loom DriveP.O. Box 90015Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 781-6400 ................................ fax (270) 438-1155www.fruit.com
Fruit of the Loom is a leading international, vertically integrated basic apparel company. The company manu-factures underwear, casual wear, children’s wear, & printable tees and fleece for the activewear industry, and athletic gear. An independent, wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire-Hathaway, Inc.
General Motors Corvette Assembly — Page 24600 Corvette DriveBowling Green, KY 42101270-745-8000www.bowlinggreenassemblyplant.com
Located just off I-65 at exit 28, General Motors Bowling Green Assembly is proud to be the only “Home of the Corvette.” Visit the plant’s website for tour information.
Halton Group Americas2413 Nashville Road, C4Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 393-7214 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Halton is passionate about indoor environments. We offer business enhancing products, systems and services for comfortable, energy-efficient and safe environments for customers who value the well-being of people.
Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. — Page 28151 Turner CourtP.O. Box 1839Bowling Green, KY 42102-1839(270) 842-3319 ................................ fax (270) 745-9639www.hillspet.com
Helping to enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets.
International Paper — Page 305150 Nashville Rd.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 783-3600 ................................ fax (270) 783-3700www.internationalpaper.com
International Paper is a diversified integrated forest prod-ucts company. Our facility in Bowling Green produces corrugated shipping containers for manufacturing in Kentucky, Tennessee and Indiana.
KapStone Container Corporation — Page 23225 Mitch McConnell WayBowling Green, KY 42102(270) 842-7800www.kapstonepaper.com
Kobe Aluminum Automotive Products LLC — Page 23525 Central CourtBowling Green, KY 42101270-842-6492
Aluminum suspension for the automobile industry.
Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce72
index of advertisers
Lord Corporation — Page 292800 Pioneer DriveP.O. Box 8500Bowling Green, KY 42101-4053(270) 781-5440 ................................ fax (270) 842-1358www.lord.com
Our team-based workforce of more than 220 employees produce high-quality bonded elastomer assemblies that manage shock, vibration, noise and motion for equipment and the transportation industries.
SCA Personal Care — Page 297030 Louisville RoadP.O. Box 90022Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 796-9300 ................................ fax (270) 796-3181www.sca.com
SCA is a global consumer goods and paper company that produces personal care products, tissue, packaging solu-tions, and publication papers. At the beginning of 2009, SCA had approximately 50,000 employees.
Stoody Thermadyne Industries — Page 28Thermadyne Industries, Inc.5557 Nashville RoadBowling Green, KY 42101(800) 369-4864 ................................ fax (270) 782-9237www.stoody.com
Since 1921, Stoody has been a world class supplier and the world’s leader in the production of welding wires and electrodes used to combat various types of wear and corrosion.
muSic
Royal Music Company, Inc. — Page 57830 Fairview Ave.Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 842-9435 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Royal Music has served families in Kentucky for 64 years. Through our experienced staff, our mission is to provide quality instruments, music, lessons, and service to the people of our area.
non-profit
President’s Club-Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce — Page 2710 College St.P.O. Box 51Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 781-3200 ................................ fax (270) 843-0458www.bgchamber.com
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.
orAl Surgery
Jerry E. Cohron, DMD, MS — Page 46948 Elm St.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 745-0698 ................................ fax (270) 745-0067
We accept Medicaid and most dental Insurance plans. Visa, Mastercard and Discover accepted. Financing through Carecredit and Chase Healthcare. Same-day or next-day appointments.
pAint Store
PPG Porter Paint1495 Campbell LaneBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 781-3560 ................................ 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.
petroleum diStriButor
Valor Oil Company407 Raven AvenueBowling Green, KY 42101(270) 842-0361 ................................ fax (270) 782-7736www.valoroil.com
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.
phySiciAnS/SurgeonS
Associated Foot and Ankle Clinics, P.S.C. — Page 491830 Destiny Lane, Ste. 110Bowling Green, KY 42104(270) 846-3338 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Western Kentucky Orthopaedic & Neurosurgical Associates — Page 50165 Natchez Trace, Suite 100Bowling Green, KY 42103(270) 782-7800 ................................ fax (270) 843-0779www.wkona.net
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.
plumBing/lighting
Brock McVey Co. of Bowling Green — Page 42943 Lovers LaneP.O. Box 20126Bowling Green, KY 42103(270) 782-0484 ................................ fax (270) 782-0496www.brockmcvey.com
The source for all your: • Appliances • Refrigeration • Lighting• Ice Machines • Plumbing • And More...
poolS & SpAS
AquaLand Pool, Spa & Patio1260 Campbell LaneBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 842-8981(888) POOL-PRO ............................... fax (270) [email protected]
AquaLand Pool, Spa & 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
Coldwell Banker Legacy Real Estate Group - Verice & Gene EnglandVerice cell (270) 791-4930Gene cell (270) 791-8402Toll-free (800) 543-2083 ext. [email protected]
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!
Lynn Fly Whitmer, GRI1278 Campbell LaneBowling Green, KY 42104(270) [email protected]
“Real Estate results that Fly”Active in Real Estate sales for 14 years and following in the footsteps of my partner and mother, Dot Fly. We enjoy bringing family and business together and helping others with their Real Estate needs.
Weichert, Realtors® - The Hunt Group — Page Inside Front Cover1053A Lovers LaneBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 745-9900 ................................ fax (270) 843-8287www.wrhuntgroup.com
A family tradition of excellence in auctions, residential & commercial real estate. Our team of Realtors® are dedicated to premium customer service.
reStAurAntS
Buckhead Cafe & Bakery — Page 4760 Campbell Lane in Buckhead SquareBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 846-0110 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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 4801 State StreetBowling Green, KY 42102(270) 842-6878 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Mariah’s is located downtown in Bowling Green’s oldest brick home. Casual atmosphere and dining featuring wood-fired brick oven, fresh salads, delicious sand-wiches, hand-cut steaks, and homemade desserts.
retAil
Nat’s Outdoor Sports1121 Wilkinson TraceBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 842-6211www.natsoutdoor.com
Established in 1973, Nat’s Outdoor Sports is the premier Outdoor Retailer in this area. Nat’s carries your favorite apparel & equipment from The North Face, Patagonia, Trek, Life is Good, Mountain Hardwear, Brighton, Columbia & many more...
Security SyStemS / BAnk equipment
AAA Systems — Page 171101 Shive LaneBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 842-1443 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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.
ServiceS - cuStomer
Regina Webb Salon & Spa — Page 311250 Western St.Bowling Green, KY 42104(270) 781-4676 ................................ fax (270) 782-8231www.reginawebbsalon.com
Image• Facial Analysis and Design Cutting• Signature Hair Color & Texture• Bridal & Special Occasion Hair• Make-Up Application• Facial & Massages• Customized Body Treatments• Spa Manicures & Pedicures• Spa Packages for Men & Women• Gift Certificates & Gift Cards Available• Regina Webb Mineral Make-Up & Hair Care
Shopping mAll
Greenwood Mall — Page 172625 Scottsville RoadBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 782-9047www.greenwoodmall.com
Shop one of Greenwood Mall’s four department stores and over 100 specialty shops. Enjoy a quick bite in our family-friendly food court. Visit us online at www.greenwoodmall.com.
telecommunicAtionS
Bluegrass Cellular — Page 731661 Campbell LaneBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 781-89991355 Veterans Memorial Lane, Suite 102 (Oxford Center)Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 393-0355www.bluegrasscellular.com
Stay connected where you live, work and play. With Bluegrass Cellular you get all the latest phones, smart-phones and devices plus the best nationwide plans and apps on the market.
Comstar Systems — Page 27944 Searcy WayBowling Green, KY 42103(270) 781-7076 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
• 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
Star*Tel Systems — Page 51200 N. Liberty St.P.O. Box 515Glasgow, KY 42141(270) 651-5597 ................................ fax (270) 659-7803www.startelsystems.com
• 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
www.bgchamber.com 73
index of advertisers
trAnSportAtion
Community Action of Southern Kentucky — Page 10921 Beauty AvenueP.O. Box 90014Bowling Green, KY 42102-9014(270) 782-3162 ................................ fax (270) 842-5735www.casoky.org/transportation
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 door-to-door transportation for persons with disabilities.
utilitieS
Bowling Green Municipal Utilities — Page 19801 Center St.Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 782-1200 ................................ fax (270) 782-4320www.bgmu.com
Bowling Green Municipal Utilities is your hometown utility, providing water, wastewater treatment, electric and com-mercial high-speed data services to our community.
Bowling Green Municipal Utilities Fiber — Page 20801 Center St.Bowling Green, KY 42102(270) 782-4542 ................................ fax (270) 782-4320www.bgmu.com
BGMU offers state-of-the-art fiber-optic high-speed data & voice services for businesses throughout the Bowling Green area. Services include *Internet Connectivity *Telephone Services *Point-to-Multi-Point VLANS *Co-Locations Services *Fiber Leasing
Tennessee Valley Authority6045 Russellville RoadBowling Green, KY 42101-7319(270) 846-7040 ................................ fax (270) 846-7045www.tva.com
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 environ-mental research, and an economic development agency for parts of seven states.
Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corp. — Page 21951 Fairview Ave.P.O. Box 1118 Bowling Green, KY 42102-1118(270) 842-6541 ................................ fax (270) 781-3299www.wrecc.com
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.
veterinAriAn
Westgate Veterinary Hospital2010 Russellville Rd.Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 782-1644 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
Practice limited to Companion Animals.Laser surgery, Dentistry, Vaccinations, Boarding, Hospitalization, In-Office Lab.We carry Hills Science Diet Pet Food. Telephone answered 24 Hours in Emergency. 270-782-1644
viSion
McPeak Vision Partners — Page 451403 Andrea St.Bowling Green, KY 42104(270) 781-4909 ................................ fax (270) 843-9678www.mcpeakvision.com
Full-service ophthalmology and optometry practice offer-ing complete eye exams, medical and surgical treatment of cataracts and glaucoma, diabetic eye care, refractive procedures such as LASIK and PRK, and a full optical shop with the latest fashions.
viSion
Love & Warden Eye CareDr. Tammy H. LoveDr. Trina R. Warden1256 Campbell Lane, Suite 106Bowling Green, KY 42104(270) 796-6021 ................................ fax (270) 796-6072www.loveandwardeneyecare.com
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
Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau — Page 62352 Three Springs RoadBowling Green, KY 42104(270) 782-0800 ................................ fax (270) [email protected]
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.
