February 23, 2007

CHAMBER ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY AWARDS

Rising Sun, Indiana, February 23, 2007 — The Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the recipients of its annual Chamber Community Awards.

Bill and Kathy Ruch are the 2006 Chamber of Commerce Citizens of the Year. The Citizen of the Year award is given to identify, honor and reinforce the activities of exceptional caring citizens whose service or performance positively contributes to the quality of life in Rising Sun and/or Ohio County, Indiana. Bill and Kathy are active volunteers in Rising Sun and Ohio County and have been a part of the Chamber’s annual Navy Bean Festival Committee for many years.

The Chamber of Commerce bestowed this honor because they believe Bill and Kathy's leadership is a positive force and their caring for the community has been exemplary.

The Educator of the Year recognizes an individual who has made significant personal and professional contributions to the overall well-being of Ohio County Youth as a leader, educator or mentor. This year’s recipient is Julie Wilson, teacher at Ohio County Elementary School. Julie has been chosen because she is a positive influence on our youth both in and out of the classroom. She encourages youth to be themselves while following he rules of society as well. She goes above and beyond what is expected of her in her employment.

The2006 Business Person of the Year is Terry Black of Tandy’s IGA. This award recognizes the significant contributions of an individual to the economic vitality of the Rising Sun and Ohio County community. Terry serves as a role model for other businesses, shares resources, provide counsel to others, and has an established reputation for being an ethical businessperson.

The awards will be presented at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner on March 12th 2007 at the Empire House Historic Hotel and Restaurant in Rising Sun. All business owners in Ohio County are welcome to attend the event. Please call the Chamber office at 438-3130 or 438-4072 to RSVP for dinner reservations.

The Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber of Commerce represents Ohio County's diverse, dynamic business community. The Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber is a member-supported business organization working to maintain a healthy economy by bringing business and industry to the area, helping established firms grow and building the community through outreach and service. For additional information, Contact: Chamber President, Lane Siekman at (812) 438-4072 or info@risingsunchamber.com .