During today's luncheon at the 2010 Annual Conference of the Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E.) in Burlingame, California, Longview Partnership President/CEO Kelly R. Hall was awarded the 2009 Executive of the Year.  Brad Hicks, President/CEO of the Medford/Jackson County Oregon Chamber and 2008 winner, presented the award to Hall.

The Executive of the Year Award recognizes a chamber CEO for outstanding performance over thelast year. Candidates are judged in five areas of expertise including finance, communications, legislative action, and membership services performed by the chamber. In his presentation, Hicks made special mention of Hall's work in developing Sensible Solution, the Longview Partnership's new nonsubscriber program, which was awarded the 2009 Outstanding Program of the Year by the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives late last year.  Additionally, Hall's involvement in the community and Chamber industry were highlighted.  An appreciative and overwhelmed Hall thanked W.A.C.E., whom she lauded as "the best organization for Chambers in the country," for the honor.

Incorporated in 1924, the Western Association of Chamber Executives is the premier organization for education and professional development for chamber executives and staff.  W.A.C.E. now represents over 750 chamber professionals in 14 Western states.

Congratulations to the Longview Partnership's Kelly Hall on receiving one of the W.A.C.E.'s highest honors at this year's conference.