PARIS – The Oxford Hills Chamber of Commerce is taking over the organizing of the Oxford Hills Business Showcase, beginning in 2005.

The decision came after a Tuesday meeting of the chamber’s 16-member board of directors, who “enthusiastically endorsed this decision by unanimous vote,” said Executive Director John Williams.

Barb Olson, vice president of the Growth Council of Oxford Hills and showcase manager for the past eight years, said the council is pleased that the chamber has adopted the showcase.

“The showcase has provided a great opportunity for business and community groups to celebrate their successes, and although I will miss working with all the sponsors and exhibitors, we are delighted the chamber has made the decision to take it over.” She said the growth council will provide assistance to the chamber through the transition year.

The Growth Council announced in July that it would take a year off from hosting the showcase to concentrate efforts on new business and job creation in the Oxford Hills.

Gene Benner, owner of Bessey Motor Sales in Paris and a major sponsor of the showcase for many years, said he was planning to take a year off from the showcase in any event. He said the year off will give everyone a chance to refuel and move aggressively forward with a new show in 2005.

Board Director Sawin Millett said Tuesday that having the chamber take over the showcase was consistent with the chamber’s mission, which is to help promote and build a strong business and community environment in the eight towns of the Oxford Hills.

“We’re going to utilize all of our resources to make this event the very best it can be,” Williams said.