T.O./Westlake Chamber recognized as one of the state's best

The Thousand OaksWestlake Village Regional Chamber of Commerce has earned 4-star accreditation from the U. S. Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber completed the rigorous accreditation process at

the end of 2005, and was informed recently that it had been awarded 4-star accreditation for "its effective organizational procedures and outstanding contribution to positive change in the community." "Accreditation is one of the

highest honors bestowed on local chambers," said Thomas J. Donohue, U.S. Chamber President and CEO.”We are proud to recognize the Thousand OaksWestlake Village Regional Chamber of Commerce and its members for helping to advance

the principles of free enterprise-the bedrock of this prestigious award."

To achieve accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in its operations and programs, including governance, government affairs and

tech-nology.The final rating depends on the chamber's ability to successfully meet additional criteria in accountability, financial transparency, employee involvement, political advocacy and community involvement.