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Press Release

Joseph A. Frick Assumes Chair of Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce

Workforce development and decreased youth violence top priority

Philadelphia, PA - October 10, 2006 - Joseph A. Frick, president and CEO of Independence Blue Cross, was installed today as the 2006-2008 Chairman of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors at the Chamber's 206th annual meeting at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Frick succeeds Stephen D. Steinour, president of Citizens Financial Group, Inc., who served as chairman from 2004 to 2006.

Over the last two years, Steinour's "commitment to the business community has moved the greater Philadelphia region forward and better positioned it for continued progress," Frick said. "I'm honored to continue that forward momentum and work with the Chamber on initiatives to further the region's growth and prosperity."

During the meeting, Frick asked the 1,200 business executives in attendance to accelerate progress in the region by "aggressively pursu[ing] new and innovative partnerships to address pressing issues." He said there should be a sense of urgency because "the environment in our region may never present as many opportunities for rapid, positive change as we have before us now."

During his two-year term, Frick, who said he has a "passion" for workforce and leadership development, pledged to make workforce development a top issue in the quest to reduce violence in Philadelphia

"The business community can play a key role in reducing the level of violence gripping Philadelphia" by offering "real alternatives to life on the street through initiatives that provide employment and educational opportunities for at-risk youths," said Frick. "We can make this community an even better place to live and work."

He noted that area companies provided internships last summer to more than 440 young people, but nearly as many were left on the waiting list. He urged the Chamber to "make sure that not one young person is left on a waiting list next summer."

In addition, Frick suggested expanding "summer internships into year-round initiatives that better link our businesses, our schools, and our communities." He also said that the Chamber is already promoting legislation in Harrisburg and Philadelphia that would provide tax credits to employers offering internships to at-risk youth.

In the Chamber's report on its operations, which was distributed at today's annual meeting, Frick stated that his priorities also include improving operations at the Philadelphia International Airport by fostering the Chamber's continued dialog with the Federal Aviation Administration, the City of Philadelphia, and regional elected officials.

About the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting growth and economic development, advocating for sound public policy, and serving our members with outstanding programs and benefits. GPCC is the premier advocate of the region's business community, representing members in 11 counties across three states with one voice.

About Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is the leading health insurer in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Nationwide, IBC and its affiliates provide coverage to nearly 3.4 million people. For nearly 70 years, Independence Blue Cross has offered quality health care products and services tailored to meet the changing needs of members, employers, groups and providers.

Independence Blue Cross recently received the highest ratings from the National Committee for Quality Assurance for its HMO and PPO health care plans. In addition, in 2005, Independence Blue Cross's Personal Choice was rated the No. 1 PPO in the nation and its Keystone HMO was ranked the No. 1 HMO in the region by health care consumers in a leading independent consumer magazine.