DECEMBER2018 | Vol 13 Issue 12
2018 General Election Report “So, let us not be blind to our differences–but let us also direct attention to our common interests and to the means by which those differences can be resolved. And if we cannot end now our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity. For, in the final analysis, our most basic common link is that we all inhabit this small planet. We all breathe the same air. We all cherish our children's future. And we are all mortal.” – John F. Kennedy
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Events and Meetings
Bowling For Business Promotes Fun Team Building
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2018 General Election Report
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2018 General Election Report Continued Small Business Corner – 2018 Online Small Business Needs Survey | Your Input Needed; Components of Building Capacity within Career & Technical Education
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An Evening Honoring Mr. Dick Trammel; Call for Nominations | Annual Community Awards November 8-9 Board Retreat | A Future of Being Relevant and Necessary Focus on the Community – Walmart AMP 20|20 Focuses on Expanded Amenities for Patrons and Other Stories from the Community Downtown Rogers Celebrates First Anniversary of Monthly Art Walk
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Welcome New Members | October 2018
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Ribbon Cuttings | October 2018 Chamber Membership Renewals | October 2018; Ambassador of the 2nd Quarter
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Chamber Networking & Educational Events
Chamber to Community Event Unveils New Downtown Rogers Park Design
RogersLowell.com | DECEMBER2018
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quick reference calendar | DECEMBER Business Building Events DEC
12.6 | Small Business Council Meeting 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
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12.6 | Hustle in Heels Committee Meeting 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
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12.7 | Door Prize Donation Happy Hour 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
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12.11 | Coffee Connection 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. | Pack Shack
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12.11 | Education Committee Meeting 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
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12.13 | Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | Centennial Bank
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12.21 | Government Affairs/Large Industry Council Meeting 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
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Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 317 West Walnut Street | Rogers, Arkansas 72756 P: (479) 636-1240 F: (479) 636-5485
Upcoming Meetings
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Paid for through Periodical “Chamber Voice” (USPS
View complete calendar at RogersLowell.com
RO G ERS- L O W EL L A REA C HAMBER O F CO M M E R C E
492950) is published monthly in January, February,
Holiday Open House
March, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December; (semi-monthly in April) by the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc., 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR
You’re Cordially InviteD – DECEMBER 7, 2018 | 1:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M.
72756. Periodical postage paid at Rogers, AR.
Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce | 317 W. Walnut St. Rogers
Postmaster send address changes to: | RogersLowell Area
Free and Open to Members
Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
From 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., the Chamber staff will host an open house that is open to the entire membership and general public. Please stop by to meet the staff and enjoy holiday treats.
317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756.
For more information on the Holiday Open House at the Chamber call (479) 636-1240.
STAFF Raymond Burns, CCE President/CEO rburns@rogerslowell.com
Brad Phillips Senior Vice President of Marketing Communications brad@rogerslowell.com
Jeff O'Neill Special Events Coordinator jeff@rogerslowell.com
Kelly Parker Sports & Tourism Marketing Manager | Visit Rogers kelly@rogerslowell.com
J.R. Shaw Executive Director/Executive Vice President | Visit Rogers jr@rogerslowell.com
Jon Moran Senior Vice President of Government Affairs jon@rogerslowell.com
Ross Phillips Director of Community Development ross@rogerslowell.com
Luke Wiggins Meetings & Conventions Sales Manager | Visit Rogers luke@rogerslowell.com
Katie Wright Chief Operations Officer katie@rogerslowell.com
Vickie Grotts Vice President of Accounting & Finance vickie@rogerslowell.com
Nick Smith Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com
Justin Freeman Marketing Communications Specialist justin@rogerslowell.com
Shelle Summers, IOM Senior Vice President of Membership Services ssummers@rogerslowell.com
Karen Wagaman Vice President of Downtown Development karen@rogerslowell.com
Jacque Eakins Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com
Ashley Matsumura Information Specialist ashley@rogerslowell.com
Steve Cox Senior Vice President of Economic Development steve@rogerslowell.com
Heather Friday Finance Manager heather@rogerslowell.com
Marni Rogers Member Relations Manager marni@rogerslowell.com
Amanda Mills Information Specialist amanda@rogerslowell.com
B OA RD O F D IRECTO RS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
2018 DIRECTORS
Chairman of the Board Eric Pianalto, Mercy NWA
Keri Earwood, Shelter Insurance Dennis Ferguson, Simmons Bank Jon Harrell, Generations Bank Jeff Milford, AEP/SWEPCO David Roth, WorkMatters Tina Winham, Spin Master
Chairman-Elect Greg Fogle, Nabholz Construction Treasurer Angie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker's Furniture & Appliance Past Chairman David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade President/CEO Raymond Burns RIDC President Jerry Vest, Regions Bank
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EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS
Tom Allen, Sage Partners Dr. Marlin Berry, Rogers Public Schools Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Luxury Real Estate Redefined Jerry Carmichael, 3C Retail Solutions Larry Cooper, Embassy Suites NWA Russ Daniel, McLarty Daniel Rich Davis, Black Hills Energy Jesica Duert, Walmart Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp. Sandy Edwards, Crystal Bridges Museum David Foster, APAC-Central Inc. Dan Hendrix, World Trade Center Arkansas
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2019 DIRECTORS
Jill Bright, Grand Savings Bank Payne Brewer, Arvest Bank Corry Hull, OneDigital Health and Benefits Erin Kiefer, Assembled Products Corporation Denten Park, Northwest Health Chris Sultemeier, Walmart (retired)
Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers Tom Hopper, Tallchamps, LLC Dr. Evelynn Jorgenson, NWACC Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center Eldon Long, Mayor, City of Lowell Aaron Matthews, First Baptist Church of Lowell Judge Barry Moehring, Benton County Jerra Nalley, Runway Curt Stamp, Cox Business Dick Trammel, Arkansas Highway Commission Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods
2020 DIRECTORS
Leah Acoach, Ozark Mountain Poultry, Inc. Danny Beck, Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield Joe Donaldson, Sam’s Furniture Brad Hicks, J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. Mike Power, First Security Bank David Vaden, Ernst & Young LLP
DIVISION CHAIRS
Community Development - Tina Winham Membership Services - Keri Earwood Economic Development - Jeff Milford Government Affairs - Jerry Carmichael Convention & Visitors Bureau - Larry Cooper
AUDIT COMMITTEE
Jill Bright, Jon Harrell, & David Vaden
Bowling For Business Promotes Fun Team Building
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he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its 9th annual Bowling For Business event Friday, November 9 at Rogers Bowling Center. Bowlers
took a break from their normal work routine to get together and eat all kinds of delicious foods and snacks, show off their team’s creative t-shirt designs, enjoy some fun games and compete for prizes and trophies. Bowlers
praised the event saying it was a great way to foster team building while meeting new professional contacts and getting some exercise while doing it.
HIGHEST SCORING TEAM/BEST TEAM SHIRT | Steve's Plumbing Pictured left to right – Rosalie Beaver, Harrison Max, Brenda Bryan, Terry Mouser (back row), Charlotte McAllum, Josh Bush.
LOWEST SCORING TEAM | Embassy Suites Northwest Arkansas Pictured left to right – Jordan Griffin, Emily Rector, Heather Fox, Morgan Stotts, Ashley Pickle
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
CERTIFIED PUBLIC A CCOUNTANTS
RogersLowell.com | DECEMBER2018
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THE MOST IMPORTANT ELECTION EVER President Kennedy’s words, delivered to soothe a frightened and concerned nation at the height of the Cold War, ring just as true today as they did during his time. On Election Day 2018 a frightened, concerned, and sharply politically divided American electorate went to the polls to determine the leaders of our country for the next two years. From the City Council to the Halls of Congress, Americans have spoken with their votes in 2018. Although much of the media focus during this mid-term election centered on the Congressional races around the country, there were several races decided by local voters that will have an impact on the direction of our state and on the Northwest Arkansas region that we call home.
LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS | LEGISLATIVE Denotes Winner SENATE DISTRICT 3
Incumbent | Senator Cecile Bledsoe (R)
for her third term in the House after making news by winning a very close primary election in May. She rebounded from that primary election by easily dispensing with her Democratic opponent, Kati McFarland. Della Rosa won convincingly on November 6 by receiving 66 percent of the vote. Della Rosa currently serves as the Chair of the House Finance Subcommittee of the City, County, and Local Affairs Committee. She is also a member of the House Education Committee. Challenger | Jon Comstock (D)
Senator Cecile Bledsoe of Rogers is the Dean of the Benton County Legislative Delegation. She defeated her Democratic challenger, John Comstock, by garnering 63 percent of the vote. Senator Bledsoe had previously served in the House from 1999 to 2005. She was elected to the Senate in 2008 where she currently serves as the Chairman of the Senate Public Health Committee.
HOUSE DISTRICT 87
Incumbent | Representative Robin Lundstrum (R)
HOUSE DISTRICT 92
Challenger | Gayla Hendren McKenzie (R)
Challenger | Chris Birch (D)
Gayla Hendren-McKenzie is Benton County’s newcomer to the House of Representatives, but she’s not a newcomer to the world of politics. She is impressive, and she is the daughter of Representative Kim Hendren, sister of Senator Jim Hendren, and the niece of Governor Hutchinson, and she is determined to make her own mark in the House of Representatives. She defeated her Democratic challenger, Chris Birch, by receiving 71 percent of the vote. Challenger | Kelly Scott Unger (D)
HOUSE DISTRICT 93
Representative Robin Lundstrum of Elm Springs will be returning for her third term in the House. She bested her Democratic rival, Kelly Scott Unger, by receiving 70 percent of the vote. Representative Lundstrum currently serves as the Vice-Chair of the House Insurance and Commerce Committee.
HOUSE DISTRICT 90
Incumbent | Representative Jim Dotson (R)
Challenger | Gayatri Agnew (D)
Representative Jim Dotson, a realtor from Bentonville, will be returning to the House for his fourth term. His opponent, Gayatri Agnew, had a stronger than usual showing for a Democratic challenger in that district receiving 42 percent of the vote. Dotson is currently the Chair of Arkansas Legislative Council.
Incumbent | Representative Jana Della Rosa (R)
Challenger | Kati McFarland (D)
Dispensing of primary and general election opponents is becoming a thing for Representative Jana Della Rosa of Rogers. She will be returning
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HOUSE DISTRICT 94
Incumbent | Representative Rebecca Petty (R)
ENGAGING THE NEXT GENERATION OF VOTERS - LEGISLATIVE FORUM DATES SET FOR 2019
Challenger | Jene’ Huffman-Gilreath (D)
Representative Rebecca Petty of Rogers will be returning to the House for her third term. This was the closest margin in the Benton County legislative races on election night. Petty bested her opponent, Jene' Huffman-Gilreath, by 882 votes receiving 56 percent of the vote. Representative Petty currently serves on the House Judiciary Committee.
The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and The Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce will once again sponsor Legislative Forums during the Legislative Session in 2019. The Forums will be operated in 2019 with the help of students from both the Rogers and Bentonville High Schools. The Legislative Forums will be held at and rotated among the four Rogers and Bentonville High School campuses. The forums will start at 9:00 a.m. beginning on Saturday, January 26.
LEGISLATIVE FORUM DATES: JANUARY 26, FEBRUARY 9, FEBRUARY 23, MARCH 9, MARCH 23, APRIL 6, APRIL 20*, MAY 4* *If Necessary
HOUSE DISTRICT 95
Incumbent | Representative Austin McCollum (R)
Challenger | Celeste Williams (D)
Representative Austin McCollum of Bella Vista defeated his Democratic challenger, Celeste Williams, receiving 65 percent of the vote. McCollum is now no longer the newest member of the Benton County Legislative delegation, as he will be entering his second term in the House. He is currently a member of the House Public Health, Welfare, and Labor Committee.
HOUSE DISTRICT 96
LEGISLATIVE FORUMS TO BE PODCAST IN 2019 The 2019 Legislative Forums will also be recorded and will be rebroadcast on the Chamber Voice of Business Podcast. You can listen to, subscribe, and follow the
Incumbent | Representative Grant Hodges (R)
Challenger | Christie Craig (D)
Representative Grant Hodges won his re-election this Fall. He will be returning to the House for his third term. He defeated his Democratic challenger, Christie Craig, garnering 68 percent of the vote. Hodges serves on both the Education and the Insurance and Commerce Committees. Hodges also gained notoriety last session as the sponsor of Governor Hutchinson’s legislation ending the state’s long overdue practice of dual celebration of the Martin Luther King Birthday holiday with General Robert E. Lee’s Birthday.
Chamber Voice of Business Podcast on SoundCloud, iTunes, or Google Play. You can find the Chamber Voice of Business Podcast online and
subscribe. Just search “Chamber Voice of Business” on any of these platforms and start listening to one of Northwest Arkansas’s premier business podcasts today!
DETAILED LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS For more details on 2018 General Election results for Benton County and Washington County visit vote.bentoncountyar.gov/results/ or co.washington. ar.us/government/departments-a-e/election-commission.
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2018 Online Small Business Needs Survey | Your Input Needed
he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Council are sending out the 2018 Small Business Survey in early December. This survey will be sent via an email link to Chamber members that employ less than 100 people. It will focus on identifying the needs of the small business community in Northwest Arkansas and learning
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THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION
time to complete it. Your feedback is a valuable part in the process of determining how the Chamber and the Small Business Council may best serve you, our small business community. If you have questions, please contact Steve Cox, Sr. Vice President of Economic Development, at Steve@RogersLowell.com.
When you receive this survey, please take
Components of Building Capacity within Career & Technical Education
areer & Technical Education (CTE) programs are vital to preparing students for successful careers and providing business and industries with skilled workers needed to meet the demands of the local workforce. Information presented at the recent NWA Workforce Summit emphasized these key components of building capacity within career education: • Increasing awareness of career education programs available in local school districts, technical schools and college/universities. • Career and work-related experiences that local business/ industries offer to students and teachers. • Increasing number of opportunities for students to obtain industry certifications recognized within a broad spectrum of career fields. • Partnerships with local business and industries through collaborative endeavors designed to offer students, parents and teachers information about
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how the Chamber may better serve them. Input from this survey helps make decisions on the types of educational content and small business programming to be offered through the Chamber in 2019.
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career opportunities, jobs skills, technical training and educational programs that are available to students. • Supporting career exploration and opportunities in primary and middle schools. • Providing authentic career experiences and internships to high school students.
BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS VITAL Over the past five years, the Rogers Public Schools CTE department has increased the number business partnerships with local businesses, industries, non-profit and civic organizations. The partnerships have proven to be a vital part of the continued improvement of the district’s career and technical programs and alignment with current and projected workforce demands within both Rogers and the surrounding Northwest Arkansas region. Partnerships with local business and industry help to develop and offer educational and training programs that focus on the skill sets that align with each respective business/ industry certification requirements and workforce demands.
CERTIFICATIONS PROVIDE STUDENTS CREDENTIALS Rogers Public Schools recognizes the value and importance of providing students opportunities to obtain industry certifications that align with both the career programs offered within the district and corresponding career fields. Industry certifications provide the students with credentials that indicate both the academic and technical skills that they have achieved and can demonstrate within the workplace. The Rogers Public Schools CTE department would like to extend a note of gratitude to the all of the businesses, industry and community partners for their participation in the Career & Technical Advisory Councils, classroom and school presentations, career conferences, facility tours, parent and student events, career fairs and opportunities for teachers to participate in local business conferences and networking events sponsored by the RogersLowell Are Chamber of Commerce.
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A Special Evening for Northwest Arkansas to Honor Mr. Dick Trammel | February 2, 2019
oin us as we celebrate Dick Trammel’s life achievements, contributions to our community and well-deserved retirement. For years, many of us have affectionately referred to him as “Mr. Northwest Arkansas” and for very good reasons. As a businessman and philanthropist, Trammel has answered nearly every call-to-service opportunity presented and somehow found a way to give back to the community he loves each time, including dozens of charitable and nonprofit groups in the region. He might well be the most recognizable man in Northwest Arkansas – and one of the most recognized for his achievements. In 1975, Mr. Trammel moved to Rogers to become a vice president of First National Bank & Trust Company, which later became Arvest Bank. Currently, he serves as an Executive Vice President and a member of the Board of Directors. He is also the Director of the State Highway Commission through January 2019. Trammel is a past Chariman of the Board of Directors for the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce. He’s a recipient of the Chamber's Good Neighbor Award in 1982; the Pride of
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Rogers Award in 2000 and was honored by having that award renamed for him in 2007. In October 2018, Trammel celebrated a 60-year milestone since he became a U of A cheerleader. Because of his enthusiasm for the university and love for the cheerleading program, Trammel and his wife, Nancy, created a scholarship for cheer students with a $250,000 estate gift. Since 1975, Mr. Trammel has appeared with the cheer squad every year at the Homecoming football game. It’s a tradition he appreciates and anticipates annually. Mr. Trammel served as a Founding Trustee of NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC), and continues to serve on the NWACC Foundation Board of Directors. He received the NWACC Foundation Quality of Life Award in 2006 and will forever be a part of the institution's history. Trammel is also a recipient of the Rogers Rotary Club’s Dick Daniel Distinguished Citizen Award recognizing individuals who have made a lasting impression on Rogers and Northwest Arkansas. He is the epitome of the Rotary motto, 'Service Above Self,' by the way he takes an active part in serving those in need and promoting
projects that enhance Northwest Arkansas. "One of the greatest things in life is to help someone help themselves," Trammel says he learned at a young age. He also has learned the power of what he calls "quiet influence" -- offering people a smile, being courteous, being kind and having a caring attitude.
SAVE THE DATE | Saturday, February 2, 2019 An Evening Honoring Mr. Dick Trammel
Call for Nominations | Annual Community Awards
t’s It’s that time of year again to call for nominations for the prestigious Annual Community Awards. The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations from its members for these exceptional business and individual awards presented each year at the Chamber’s Annual Celebration scheduled for February 2, 2019. If you would like to submit a nomination please contact Brad Phillips, SVP of Marketing Communications, at Brad@RogersLowell.com or (479) 636-1240 for instructions. You may also find the forms online at RogersLowell.com, where they can be completed and submitted entirely online.
NOMINATIONS DUE FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019
given “above and beyond” to the community. Chamber members and non-members are both eligible for the awards. The awards include:
DICK TRAMMEL GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD Recognizes an individual for his/her significant contribution to the betterment of the Rogers community. Candidates must be residents of Rogers or the Rogers Area School District.
ELBERT S. GRAHAM/ELZA TUCKER AWARD Recognizes an individual for his/her significant contribution to the betterment of the Lowell community. Candidates must be residents of Lowell.
ROGERS-LOWELL SPIRIT AWARD Recognizes an organization, business or other group for its significant contribution to the betterment of the community.
How to Nominate Complete a physical nomination form, which can be found at the Chamber of Commerce office in Downtown Rogers - or Go to RogersLowell.com and complete the online nomination form linked from the homepage
Award nominees should be those who have
RogersLowell.com | DECEMBER2018
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November 8-9 Board Retreat | A Future of Being Relevant and Necessary 2018 Chamber Board of Directors Chair Eric Pianalto speaks to open the 2018 Board Retreat at Downstream Casino Resort
BACKGROUND | ENVISIONING THE FUTURE
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t last year’s November Board Retreat, the Chamber embarked on a process of envisioning the future by asking itself important questions and actively seeking answers. For example, how will the Chamber adapt and evolve over the next five years? How will the Chamber ensure its best days are yet to come? What will Chamber 3.0 look like in 2022, its 100th year anniversary? Industry research and experts point out that chambers of the future must not only sell transactional memberships (delivering direct value for dues) but also nurture commitments to support community advancement and to advocate on behalf of business. Soon, many chambers may not identify members the way most do today. They will have customers, clients, investors and partners, some of which will identify as “members” and some not. Return-oninvestment (ROI) for investors and partners and satisfaction for customers and clients will drive the success of chambers rather than the act of joining and attending, especially for the newest generations like Generation Y (Millennials) and Generation Z.
THE FUTURE IS NOW | IT’S A WHOLE NEW WORLD This year’s Board Retreat was held November 8-9 at Downstream Casino Resort in Quapaw,
Okla. Cathi Hight, from Hight Performance Group, helped the Chamber look briefly in the rearview mirror and then quickly redirected attention to the front windshield by facilitating discussions and breakouts to generate ideas for addressing the trends and challenges ahead. The group reviewed recent member and stakeholder survey feedback themes and insights, and then collectively defined drivers of change and barriers from success for businesses, residents and the Northwest Arkansas region. One important insight from the online survey is the discovery of factors of change for the Chamber’s member and stakeholder businesses. The chart above reflects these insights filtered by size of business.
TRENDS IMPACTING CHANGE Change can be cyclical or linear. There are more certain hard trends and less predictable soft trends. Cathi led the group through a critical thought process addressing how the Chamber may respond to major trends in the chart below.
WHAT’S AHEAD | VISION 2030NEXT In 2014, Vision2030’s community feedback and assessment helped define Eight Pillars that represented the foundation for the Rogers-Lowell Area’s vision: Public Education, Infrastructure Investment, Economic Diversity, Beautification and
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Renewal, Downtown Development, Amenities and Entertainment, Nature and Recreation, Engagement, Inclusion, and Public Education. The group reviewed the tremendous amount of accomplishments from Vision2030 and started ideation for the Vision2030Next planning that kicks off April 2019.
CHAMBER 3.0 | GROWING BUSINESS. BUILDING COMMUNITY. Raymond Burns, President/CEO of the Chamber, reminded participants that Chamber 3.0 is not an event, a program, or policy. Rather, it is a filter, a feeling, and a benchmark. It is a mission, a vision and set of values that lead us to relevancy, necessity and competency in a changing world. It’s an intentional effort to be Cohesive, to Invigorate and to Influence. These are carefully chosen words that describe the Chamber’s role as a Champion, Catalyst and Convener. Combine these concepts with the Chamber’s Vision, Mission and Values, and the result is a summary of what defines the Chamber as it moves forward with its mission “to be the voice of business, to promote and initiate responsible economic growth, and address community challenges in the RogersLowell Area and Northwest Arkansas region.”
Walmart AMP 20|20 Focuses on Expanded Amenities for Patrons November | 2018 – Peter Lane, President and CEO of Walton Arts Center, has announced Walmart AMP 20|20, a $13.9 million expansion project for the Walmart AMP that focuses on providing outstanding programming and expanded amenities for patrons. "We created a master plan for the development of the Walmart AMP, something that would serve as a blueprint for what the venue can and should look like for the next 10 to 15 years," Lane said. "We knew we wanted to capitalize on the elements that make our venue unique -providing concerts that you would expect to see in a larger market with the amenities of a boutique venue." The first step toward that goal is a new fiveyear partnership with Live Nation, making them the preferred promoter at the Walmart AMP. The
NEW ROGERS LOCATION ANNOUNCED FOR PEDAL IT FORWARD NWA
November | 2018 – Pedal It Forward NWA announced the Grand Opening of its new location in Rogers. With the help of a grant from the Walton Family Foundation at the recommendation of Steuart Walton and Tom Walton, Pedal It Forward was able to renovate an existing building located behind the Rogers Activity Center at 315 W. Olive St. to create its second location in Northwest Arkansas. A ribbon cutting will be held at the newly renovated facility on December 1, 2018 at 8:00 a.m. Since its founding, Pedal It Forward has repaired and distributed over 2000 bikes to kids, veterans, and other people in need. The new Rogers location will allow the nonprofit organization to at least double its output depending on how quickly new volunteers can be trained. The goal is to get 1,500 more people out on bikes in 2019. In the future, Pedal It Forward plans for the new location to be the hub in a partnership with local schools and the Rogers Activity Center to help at risk kids learn how to fix a bike and enjoy the freedom a bike provides.
partnership goes into effect for the 2019 season, with Trevor Noah as the first announced Live Nation show of the new season. “After our first few shows in 2014, it became clear that Northwest Arkansas is not only a great market for business but also entertainment,” said Bob Roux, president, U.S. Concerts, Live Nation Entertainment. “Live Nation looks forward to our new partnership and bringing even more first-class entertainment to one of the fastest growing regions in the country.” Officials also revealed expansion plans for the Walmart AMP that focus on enhancing the patron experience during a concert. Construction will start in November 2019 at the end of concert season. For more details on the project visit waltonartscenter.org/amp/2020.
MEMBERS NAMED WINNERS OF NWA BUSINESS JOURNAL’S FOURTH ANNUAL C-SUITE AWARDS
October | 2018 – The Northwest Arkansas Business Journal has honored two members of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce among their most worthy C-level executives in the region. The honorees, 10 in total, were selected by the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal management team after reviewing nomination forms submitted on their behalf. The group was recognized October 16 at the annual C-Suite Awards Luncheon at the 21c Museum Hotel in downtown Bentonville. Congratulations to Peter Lane, CEO of the Walton Arts Center, and Chris Schnurbusch, Southeast Region President for Crossland Construction Co., on being named among the best of the best! Lane joined Walton Arts Center in May of 2009. Since then it has tripled in size and grown to become one of Arkansas’ premier arts presenters. Under his leadership, WAC opened the state’s largest outdoor entertainment venue, the Walmart AMP, and completed a $24 million campaign in 2016 to renovate and expand WAC’s performing arts campus. Schnurbusch has worked in the construction industry for more than 26 years. He started working in general labor during the summer before advancing to assistant superintendent, superintendent, project manager, division manager and regional president. He’s chairman of the Northwest Arkansas chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and involved in YPO of Arkansas. View the complete list of honorees at talkbusiness.net/best-in-class/ the-c-suite-2018/ .
RogersLowell.com | DECEMBER2018
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Downtown Rogers Celebrates First Anniversary of Monthly Art Walk
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owntown Rogers was illuminated with bright neon on November 8 to celebrate the 1-Year Anniversary of the monthly Art on the Bricks Art Walk. Neon sculptures, Christmas lights and glow-in-the-dark art activities surrounded the bricks as the public was able to visit more than 25 locations with more than 30 pop-up art galleries to purchase art and meet artists from across the region. The Rogers Experimental House contributed by featuring kid-friendly activities, artist demos and mini-workshops. Adults and children created free and low-cost make-andtake projects and learned about upcoming classes for people of all ages.
ARTS HELPING TO DRIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT “The response to Art on the Bricks has been phenomenal,” said Karen Wagaman, VP of
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Downtown Development for the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and co-founder of Art on the Bricks. “The Chamber recognized the opportunity for an art walk as a means of economic development and enhancing quality of life,” she continued. “Our downtown merchants are friendly and engaging, the sidewalks and storefronts invite patrons to explore and the locally-owned restaurants are plentiful and delicious. The addition of an art walk is a perfect fit for Downtown Rogers.”
THE STORY BEHIND ART ON THE BRICKS The idea for Art on the Bricks began in 2017 when Kathy McClure, Branch Manager for Gateway Mortgage, announced she would be showcasing the work of a new artist each month and scheduling an artist reception the second Thursday of each month. With less than three weeks to plan and implement, McClure and Wagaman began reaching out to neighboring
businesses to encourage participation. “I was confident we could generate interest and participation from six or eight business owners,” Wagaman said. Five days later, the Gateway Mortgage conference room was packed with business owners interested in the opportunity to invite guest artists to set up pop-up shops in their businesses one evening per month, and they had less than two weeks to pull it off. There were 23 participating businesses, 28 artists, and more than 20 members from the Photographic Society of Northwest Arkansas who agreed to exhibit. The event is now administered by Go Downtown Rogers, in cooperation with business owners and Arkansas Public Theatre, Main Street Rogers, Rogers Experimental House, the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Rogers. The next art walk will take place on December 13 and will continue every second Thursday in 2019.
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Chamber to Community Event Unveils New Downtown Rogers Park Design
hamber to Community (C2C) is a new program for Chamber members and the community to get together as needed for education and discussions on a variety of issues impacting Rogers and Northwest Arkansas. The unveiling of the Railyard Park design on November 13 was the first Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce C2C program event held in partnership with the City of Rogers Community Development and Parks departments. Ross Barney Architects and City of Rogers staff presented results from the engagement process and then shared the new park design for Downtown Rogers. The meeting was held at the 1907. Ross Barney Architects (selected as the design firm for the project in early 2018) gathered feedback from the community throughout the year. The firm collected more than 1,000 responses from surveys and public engagement sessions and utilized those responses as a critical component in the design process. “This is truly the community’s design.” said Jim White, Director of Parks and Recreation. “I’m so excited about how Ross Barney has taken the wants and needs of our citizens and translated it into an amazingly unique space for Rogers.” White continued. The redesign was made possible by a grant from the Walton Family Foundation’s Northwest Arkansas Design Excellence Program. The program seeks to elevate the quality of design in Northwest Arkansas by providing financial support to public and nonprofit entities to develop public buildings and spaces that preserve a sense of place and promote the region. Rogers was awarded the grant in late 2017. Future C2C events will cover a broad range of topics related to the areas of Government Affairs, Community Development, Civic Engagement, and Economic Development. Each session will offer a unique perspective and updates on issues. Potential topics include a recap of the 2019 Arkansas General Legislative Session, a Regional Workforce Development update, upcoming and recent Economic Development highlights, and public forums with elected officials. If you have a topic you would like the Chamber to consider for a future C2C please share with Steve Cox, SVP of Economic Development, at (479) 636-1240. For more information about the new park design, visit rogersar.gov.
RogersLowell.com | DECEMBER2018
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Welcome NEW MEMBERS | October 2018 ALL ABOUT SMILES Angela Vanhook 3207 ARAPAHO DR. | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 621-9700 | NWASMILES.COM DENTISTS/DENTAL LABS/DENTAL CARE
HILTON GARDEN INN BENTONVILLE/ROGERS Cecile Cotner 2204 S.E. WALTON BLVD. | BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 464-7300 | BENTONVILLE.HGI.COM HOTELS/MOTELS
RAINES TREE CARE David Raines P.O. BOX 1227 | ROGERS, AR 72757 (479) 644-9210 | RAINESTREECARE.COM TREE SERVICE
STUDIO 300 (OPENING SOON) Jim Mangold 300 N. 2ND STREET | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 531-4470 ORGANIZATIONS
APPRENTICE INFORMATION SYSTEMS, INC. Alan Jennings 900 N. DIXIELAND RD. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 631-8054 | APPRENTICEIS.COM COMPUTER PRODUCTS & SERVICES
LEGALSHIELD Mark Barron P.O. BOX 7292 | SPRINGDALE, AR 72762 (417) 231-0053 | MARKBARRON.INFO LEGAL SERVICES
REHABFIRST Tristan Tiarks 201 S. 19TH ST., STE. 8 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 631-3955 | REHABFIRSTNWA.COM PHYSICAL THERAPY
TANGO DELTA CROSSFIT Wade Decker 216 E. CHESTNUT ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 479-640-6868 | TANGODELTACROSSFIT.COM FITNESS
ASHFORD ADVISORS Amanda Hartson 105 W. ELM ST., STE. 204 | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 644-5281 | ASHFORDADVISORS.NET FINANCIAL & FINANCIAL ADVISORS
LOCAL LIME Austin Nichols 2103 PROMENADE BLVD. | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 903-7300 | LOCALLIMETACO.COM/ RESTAURANTS - MEXICAN
ROWE REAL ESTATE Elizabeth Rowe 217 E. DICKSON ST., STE. 104 | FAYETTEVILLE, AR 72701 (479) 879-5514 | ROWEREALESTATE.NET/ REAL ESTATE - COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL
TOPNOTCH REAL ESTATE CO. Vickie Briolat ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 466-5400 | TOPNOTCHNWA.COM REAL ESTATE - COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL
EASON COUNSELING & ASSOCIATES VaShonda Eason 101 W. WALNUT ST., STE. C | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 435-4207 | EASONCOUNSELING.COM COUNSELING
LOCALUS INCORPORATED Stephanie Vaughn P.O. BOX 7292 | SPRINGDALE, AR 72766 (479) 718-6466 DIGITAL MEDIA
SAM'S CLUB #4808 - SPRINGDALE Natalie Urbina 1517 S. 56TH ST. | SPRINGDALE, AR 72762 (479) 365-8141 | SAMSCLUB.COM WHOLESALE TRADE
WIGGINS INCORPORATED Teresa Smith 402 W. HUDSON ROAD | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 899-6280 | WIGGINSINCORPORATED.COM CONSTRUCTION - COMMERCIAL
FINS AND TAILS SEAFOOD MARKET Victor Barcot 212 N. 13TH ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 877-6777 | FIND US ON FACEBOOK RETAIL SPECIALTY STORES
OSAGE CREEK PREMIUM CLOTHING Katherine Alldredge 5204 W. VILLAGE PKWY., STE. 6 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 319-4418 | FIND US ON FACEBOOK CLOTHING - RETAIL
SAVVY SHOPPER Rhonda Dossett 121 S. 2ND STREET | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 899-4129 | FIND US ON FACEBOOK RETAIL SPECIALTY STORES
HACHEM INVESTMENTS/SLH Laurice Hachmen 5100 W. JB HUNT DR., STE. 500 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (813) 335-2999 REAL ESTATE - DEVELOPERS AND INVESTORS
PEDAL IT FORWARD NWA Elaine McCool 315 W. OLIVE ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (314) 496-6756 | FIND US ON FACEBOOK ORGANIZATIONS
SHREE SALON Shilpaben Patel 2882 W. WALNUT ST., STE. 8 | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 202-5926 | SHREESALON.US BEAUTY SALONS
WANT TO MAKE AN IMPACT? LET’S TALK. LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITY
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C h a m b e r Vo i ce | D EC E M B E R 2 01 8
October 2018 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 2018 Sponsor
BANCORP SOUTH
CITY TILE & CLOSING LLC
701 S. 52ND ST., ROGERS
5431 PINNACLE POINTE DR., STE. 105, ROGERS
ELEVATE GAMING COMPANY
FIRST TEE OF NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
4303 PLEASANT CROSSING BLVD., #4, ROGERS
I LOVE PUPUSAS
1200 W. WALNUT ST., #2404, ROGERS
HEATHER ADAMS DENTISTRY
715 E. MONROE AVE., LOWELL
4805 HIGHLAND KNOLLS, STE. 300, ROGERS
KOMODO
LIFE STRATEGIES COUNSELING, INC.
609 S. 8TH ST., ROGERS
5204 VILLAGE PKWY., STE. 1, ROGERS
LOWELL ELECTRIC & DEVELOPMENT
SCHUBER MITCHELL HOMES
LOWELL
DIVAOLOGY, INC. DBA DIVINE DIVA
1616 S. K PL., ROGERS
1108 POPLAR PL., ROGERS
TURPENTINE CREEK WILDLIFE REFUGE - NEW BEAR HABITAT
239 TURPENTINE CREEK LANE, EUREKA SPRINGS
RogersLowell.com | DECEMBER2018
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MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | October 2018 League of United Latin American Citizens Lifeline of Northwest Arkansas Mathews Management Co. Olive Garden Italian Restaurant Ozark Mountain Poultry, Inc. TPC Premier Moving and Storage Purkeys Fleet Electric QualChoice of Arkansas Rogers Public Library Foundation Snapbox Self Storage Teen Action and Support Center
30+ YEARS pb2 architecture + engineering - 55 years Bob Maloney Collision - 53 years McGoodwin Williams & Yates, a division of Olsson Associates - 50 years Ozark Fence Co., Inc. - 45 years Justin Madick Insurance Agency - 40 years Frisco Station Mall - 39 years Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield - 35 years 21-30 YEARS Beaver Lake Realty, Inc. CJRW Jordan's Printing Company Northwest Tire Service, Inc. SCORE Chapter 0511 State Farm Insurance - Karen Williams
6-10 YEARS Children's Therapy T.E.A.M. Havenwood Custom Design Hair Download Networking LLC Dunk Fire & Security, Inc. The Fresh Market Keith, Miller, Butler, Schneider & Pawlik, PLLC Lenny's Sub Shop The Markham Group McKee Foods Corporation NWA Health Solutions Rogers Bowling Center Thrifty Car Sales and Thrifty Backyard Portable Buildings TRG Rogers, LLC TWO MEN AND A TRUCK INC./NW Arkansas
11-20 YEARS Acosta Sales & Marketing Belk, Inc. Bogle Properties Bonefish Grill Bryan University CFSI Financial Services, Inc. Cherokee Casino & Hotel Chick-fil-A of the Scottsdale Center Daylight Donuts Deloitte Dymark Sign & Display First Security Bank Frank Fletcher Honda
2-5 YEARS 7 Brew Coffee
Atwoods Ranch and Home Barrett Directline Delivery Service DC Sparks Construction, LLC Fast Track It Fuzzy's Taco Shop Gallagher GPP Cycling & Multisport Shop Guardian Financial Advisors & Associates State Representative Grant Hodges Mark A. Cummings Photography Mill Creek Software Northwest Arkansas Collision Center The Palisades at Pleasant Crossing Ronald McDonald House of Charities of Arkoma Scissortail, Another Leadership Properties Community Linda Simmons Simplicity Real Estate Solutions T-Mobile The Urban Tub / Norroc Lash Artistry 1 YEAR 3C Retail Solutions Advantage Air & Service, LLC Animal Medical Center EXP Realty IntegriTech Motus Group @ Keller Williams Market Pro Realty Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr. Pepper Bottling Company Return on Incentives Stone Manor Condominiums at Pinnacle Hills Tacos 4 Life Grill
Congratulations to Our Ambassador of the Second Quarter | Erin Reinker with RIN Interiors LLC.
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rin Reinker is the president of RIN Interiors LLC, a full-service commercial interior design and workplace strategy studio, located in historic Downtown Rogers. Erin is a licensed interior designer with nearly 15 years of commercial design and strategy experience, working mostly with clients in Texas on a variety of project types. Her expertise includes school design, tenant remodels, and large corporate relocations. Erin joined the ambassador committee as a way of broadening her network and supporting the local business community. Her favorite aspect of being an ambassador is promoting local businesses. In addition to being a Chamber ambassador, Erin participates in the Chamber’s Small Business Council, Hustle in Heels planning committee, Leadership Benton County, BOMA, IFMA, SMPS, co-facilitator of two Alzheimer support groups, as well as Arkansas Alzheimer Association community presenter.
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C h a m b e r Vo i ce | D EC E M B E R 2 01 8
Chamber Networking & Educational Events The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a variety of events to help build your network and learn. Below are the upcoming events to note. For more event details and to register, visit us online at RogersLowell.com.
DECEMBER 11, 2018
JANUARY 16, 2019
DECEMBER 13, 2018
Presenting Sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor:
Bailey & Oliver Law Firm First Western
Presenting Sponsors:
Cherokee Casino & Hotel
Arkansas 529 College Investing Plans
Gold Sponsor:
Gold Sponsor:
Host Sponsor:
OneDigital Health and Benefits
Pet Supplies Plus
Pack Shack
Location:
Address:
Host Sponsor:
Location:
Location:
Address:
ThePack Shack
1091 W. Lowell Ave., Cave Springs
Centennial Bank
4000 W. Walnut St., Rogers
Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
317 W. Walnut St., Rogers
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7 4:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting our Door Prize Donation Happy Hour on December 7. Donating door prizes for the Chamber’s events is an effective strategy to gain awareness of your business and showcase your products and services! Come with your door prize donations for the upcoming year and enjoy this members-only Door Prize Happy Hour. Light refreshments will be served. Special Thanks to Our Sponsor |
Advertising with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce | Vol 13 JANUARY2018
Issue 1
ear! Happy2 N2ew Y3
Your Banner Ad Here
g list of to review the followin the this year, be sure your planning for calendar. Then, contact efore you finalize record them in your level, there’s a Major Events and ships. No matter what the Chamber's 2018 s. teamto explore sponsor e for your busines Membership Services for increasing exposur right just that's sponsorship
THE GOOD LIFE
Advertise in the annual destination print guide (also published online) featuring maps, restaurants and lodging lists, regional activities and attractions, and resources for visiting, living, working and playing in the Rogers-Lowell Area. Your message is printed in over 25,000 copies distributed to tourists, business travelers, new residents, current citizens and convention attendees. Call to reserve your space in the 2019-2020 issue now.
ROGERSLOWELL.COM
Advertise online in the Chamber’s website and reach thousands of unique visitors each month. Paid advertising options include leaderboard ads (at the top of highly visited web pages), featured banners on select web pages and enhanced listings. Free online options include listing your business in the website’s Business Directory, offering eCoupons, sharing events in the Community Calendar and posting news in the Members News section with links to your website.
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CHAMBER VOICE
| 2018 Major Events February 22, 2018 SAVE THE DATES & Community | Commerce Annual tion of Business Area Chamber of 96th Annual Celebra The Rogers-Lowell y the Annual s & Community (formerl Celebration of Busines Northwest gathering of 1,000+ e Banquet) is an annual together to celebrat s leaders who come Arkansas busines nity excellence for lishments and commu business accomp the year for of event t It’s the highligh the previous year. way to socialize and rs, providing a fun Chamber membe with a Cocktail The event starts off hors cold network with peers. and s, hot a variety deliciou Reception serving r program features reception, a one-hou d’oeuvres. After the Ceremony. tion and Gavel Passing the Awards Celebra ding are presented to outstan S. Community awards Award (Rogers); Elbert l Good Neighbor Business of the tions: Dick Tramme Small organiza the or and ses Award; individuals, busines of Rogers-Lowell The Annual Award (Lowell); Spirit January 12, 2018. through d accepte Graham/Elza Tucker s being recipients over fabulou tions for awards are Year Award. Nomina honoring all the awards Party tion with a Celebra Celebration ends bar. desserts and a coffee
Advertise and place promotional inserts in the monthly printed newsletter (also published online) that’s mailed to nearly 4,000 members at the first of each month. It’s an affordable and cost effective way to promote your business brand, 12 7 2 products and services to decision-makers. 13 8 3 14 inserts Ads are due9on the 10th and 4 15 due5 on the 15th of10the month prior to each 11 issue. 6 Call for an Advertising Contract now. Page
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Events and Meetings
Chamber Events Happy New Year! d Breakdown Continue
for 2018
of ional Knowledge Building Foundat and Coding; NWAEL Computer Science Business and Fun Offers a Mix of
ity – Hustle in Heels Focus on Commun l Event Hosts Inaugura Ladies Lead NWA Ticket ity – Revenue and Focus on Commun AMP in Rogers and Sales Up at Walmart Community the from Other Stories Division | Government Affairs Barclay-Matthews Page es ip Chamber Introduc e Legislative Leadersh Award for Distinctiv ons/Events Visiting Visit Rogers | Conventi ee Chairs and Page Committ ed Rogers in 2018; Members Recogniz Board outgoing
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ion | We've Taken 96th Annual Celebrat & Made It Even Better ul Something Wonderf ce
Experien The Good Life New for 2018 | 2018 September 14-15,
2018 Small Business Quarter Introducing the Business of the Council; 2017 Small c Snapshot Rogers Economi Award Winners;
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ENEWSLETTERS
On Mondays (Monday Memo) and Thursdays (Calendar at a Glance) the Chamber communicates weekly to nearly 4,000 members, business leaders and qualified buyers via professionally produced emails. Provide us your banner ad (design not included) by the last Friday of the month to advertise in the upcoming month’s issues. Call for an Advertising Contract now.
er 2017; Members | Novemb Welcome New Announced Nights | Dates 2018 Chamber for February Ribbon Cuttings
| November 2017
hip Renewals | Most Chamber Members Networking is the November 2017; Business to Promote Your Inexpensive Way
nal Events; ing & Educatio Chamber Network the Dates Meetings | Save 2018 Ambassador
RogersLowell.com
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RogersLowell.com | DECEMBER2018
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317 West Walnut Street | Rogers, Arkansas 72756 | RogersLowell.com
Paid for through Periodical “Chamber Voice” (USPS 492950) is published monthly in January, February, March, May, June, July, August, October, October, DECEMBER and December; (semi-monthly in April) by the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc., 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756. Periodical postage paid at Rogers, AR. POSTMASTER send address changes to: | ROGERS-LOWELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER, 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756.