Connor named Honorary Chairman

Tournament officials today announced that Christopher M. Connor, chairman and CEO of The Sherwin-Williams Company, has accepted the position of honorary chairman for the 2008 World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational, to be held July 29-August 3 at Firestone Country Club (South Course), in Akron, Ohio.

"Being a native of Northeast Ohio, Chris cares deeply about the causes that are good for the region," said Bridgestone Invitational Executive Director Don Padgett. "He is a long-time advocate of the Bridgestone Invitational, and we are delighted to have him on board."

For years, the Bridgestone Invitational has been making substantial contributions to Northeast Ohio, with a large portion of the event's proceeds and ticket sales going directly to the community. Upwards of $1 million is given to area charities each year, benefiting a diverse range of organizations, including hospitals, children's clubs and food banks ? to name a few.

Also, the event brings out one of the strongest fields of professional golfers in the world and annually contributes more than $35 million to the Northeast Ohio economy.

In addition to his duties as chairman and CEO of The Sherwin-Williams Company, an $8 billion global leader in the paint and coatings industry, Connor serves on the board of directors of National City Corporation, Eaton Corporation and is a current member and former chairman of the Board of Trustees of University Hospitals of Cleveland.

Connor also serves on the Board of the National Association of Manufacturers, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Catholic Diocese Foundation, the Greater Cleveland Partnership and the Playhouse Square Foundation.

"It's an honor to be part of a dedicated leadership team that's committed to bringing a world-class golf tournament to Northeast Ohio," said Connor. "Every year, this tournament becomes an even greater opportunity to show the world what our community has to offer."

Tickets to the Bridgestone Invitational can be purchased by calling the Championship Office at 330-664-2299, calling toll free 1-877-942-4849 or by visiting www.worldgolfchampionships.com.