LATHAM, N.Y., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Business Review has named AFLAC New York as one of the "Great Places to Work in the Capital Region." The award recognizes the company's achievements in creating a positive work environment that attracts and retains employees through a combination of benefits, working conditions and company culture.

The Albany, N.Y.-based insurance company was one of more than 100 companies to enter, making the list of 30 finalists on the strength of its employee evaluations.

"We entered the award program because we wanted to hear directly from our employees about their views of the company," said Debra Walker, Human Resources manager for AFLAC New York. "We are very proud of our employees at AFLAC New York, and we're proud to be a winner of this award."

"We pride ourselves on our unique corporate culture and diverse workplace," added Audrey Boone Tillman, AFLAC senior vice president of Human Resources. "We know how valuable our employees are to our business, and we try to provide a supportive environment that allows each individual to participate in our success and grow as a professional."

The top companies will be profiled in a special supplement of the Oct. 15 issue of The Business Review and will be celebrated at a luncheon on Oct. 12 at the Crowne Plaza.

The Business Review launched its "Great Places to Work" program in July, contacting more than 500 human resource managers and executives at companies throughout the 11-county Capital Region.

Companies were evaluated on information collected from employees responding to a Web-based survey. The results were analyzed and scored by assigning points to each question, and weighing them according to emphasis on creativity, flexibility and collegiality.

AFLAC New York's parent company, AFLAC Incorporated (NYSE: AFL), is an international holding company. AFLAC New York offers a broad line of insurance products to more than 11,800 U.S. payroll accounts in the Northeast and has more than 3,000 licensed agents. In December 2003, Fitch, Inc., rated AFLAC New York "AA" in insurer financial strength. In April 2004, Standard & Poor's also rated AFLAC New York "AA" in insurer financial strength. AFLAC New York received an "A+ (Superior)" rating from the June 2004 A.M. Best Company Report. AFLAC New York's Internet address is www.aflacny.com .

       Media Contact:
       Mechell Clark
       706-243-8004
       meclark@aflac.com