Blog
Gaines Penn now Chairman of Bowling Green Chamber Board
by Mandy Hicks
What’s good for Bowling Green’s economy benefits the entire community and the counties surrounding Bowling Green, says ELPO Managing Partner Gaines Penn. A strong economy means new investments are being made in our community that will in turn create new jobs and other opportunities that make this a great place to live, he says. The primary organization doing economic development in the Bowling Green area is the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. Gaines is supporting the organization by serving on its Board of Directors, and during 2012, serving as Chair of the Board.
“I am looking forward to my year as Chairman,” Gaines says. “I am very honored to have the opportunity to serve in this role. The Chamber is a very worthwhile organization and I am confident that we can continue to build on the prior success of what is already widely regarded as one of the best chambers in the nation.”
During his one-year term as Chair, Gaines will have the following duties:
• Preside at all meeting of the board and executive committee.
• Promote and protect the interests of the association.
• Work with the President/CEO to advance the mission and strategic goals.
• Appoint task forces as necessary, with Board approval.
• Maintain a close relationship with affiliate and allied organizations.
• Serve as official spokesperson and prepare Chairman’s messages for publications.
• Preside over ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings.
Gaines is an attorney and partner with ELPO. His practice focuses on counseling and defending area businesses on employment, contractual and regulatory matters. Among the laws that he helps his client interpret are the Americans with Disability Act, which affects how businesses interact with employees and customers. Gaines also has extensive knowledge of the Family Medical Leave Act. Gaines also works with employers who are affected by workers’ compensation, which is governed by detailed legislation. Labor law is another area that falls within Gaines’ work.
Gaines officially became chair of the board Tuesday (January 3, 2012). He will receive a gavel and will give a presentation on February 2, 2012, at the Bowling Green Area Chamber’s annual dinner.
About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is a 5-Star Accredited Chamber by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and was named the 2009 Chamber of the Year by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. As the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,300 partners and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. Its primary goals are to promote growth and success in the business community, reaching its small business partners and those in large industries alike. With leadership programs, governmental relations projects, educational initiatives and involvement opportunities, the Chamber aims to support the community and its neighbors in order to enhance the business climate and continue to grow the region.
