Chamber Voice | July 2015 by Rogers Lowell Chamber

JULY2015 | Vol 10 Issue 7

Growing Business. Building Community.

ook out almost any window in Rogers and you’ll see growth. Whether it’s the new 10-story Hunt Tower being built in Pinnacle Hills, new restaurants, retail, and parks in Downtown, apartments on New Hope Rd., neighborhoods in Southwest Rogers, or more shopping in Pleasant Crossing, there is

growth. At this moment there is well over $60 million in private development occurring within the city. That number doesn’t include public funded projects like road construction, trails, and the soon-to-be-completed multimillion dollar, dirt jump bike park. It isn’t just new businesses and home con-

struction growing in Rogers, but it’s also jobs, residents (population), and wages too. Rogers is leading Benton County in job growth with already over 1,090 jobs created through April, and population growth with over 1,350 new residents in 2014. Wages are also improving. In 2012, the average household income for Rogers was $72,707. In three Continued on Page 3...

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Events and Meetings Growing Business. Building Community. (Cover Article Continued); Business Community Forum | Open Carry Issue Independence Day Celebrations | NWA Fireworks Displays

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Rogers Cycling Festival

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Focus on the Community Be Bold, Arkansas! Why Economic Development and High-Paying Jobs Should Be Arkansas’ Primary Goal; 50th Annual Daisy National BB Gun Championship Match

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NWA Business Expo Small Business Corner | Counselors and Mentors to NWA’s Small Business & Entrepreneurs; Small Business of the Month

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12 13 Page

Welcome New Members | May 2015

Ribbon Cuttings | May 2015; Member Orientation | July 15 Chamber Membership Renewals | May 2015; Inaugural Virginia Mocivnik Award Honors Dedication to Community

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June NWAEL Social Beer Run Photo Recap Annual Chamber Picnic May 29 | Thanks for Joining Us!; May B2B Speed Networking Breakfast a Success

Chamber Networking & Educational Events

RogersLowell.com | JULY2015

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chairman of the Board – Mike Watts, FM Corporation Chairman-Elect – Nick Hobbs, JB Hunt Treasurer – David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade Past Chairman – Ric Clifford, Clifford Consulting Group President/CEO – Raymond Burns RIDC President – Jerry Vest, Regions Bank

2015 DIRECTORS

Lori Brown, Kimberly Clark Dewayne Burns, eSCO Processing & Recycling Guy Cable, Grand Savings Bank Clay Conly, First Western Jeff Geurian, CEI Engineering Erin Kiefer, Assembled Products

2016 DIRECTORS

Greg Fogle, Nabholz Construction David Hale, Digital Printing Solutions Rick McWhirt, Bekaert Corporation Jeff Ratcliff, Big Heart Pet Brands Cameron Smith, Cameron Smith & Associates Angie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker Furniture & Appliance

2017 DIRECTORS

Tabi Lipscomb, Arvest Benton County Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Real Estate Mauricio Herrera, Legal Center of NWA Eric Pianalto, Mercy NWA Frank Bailey, Bailey & Oliver Law Firm

business-building events designed for you

upcoming meetings

7.1 Sunrise Seminar Series | Business Etiquette 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.2 Small Business Council Meeting 8:30 a.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.9 Community Diversity Celebration 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Great Southern Bank

7.8 Rogers Advertising & Promotion Commission 4:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.14 Coffee Connection 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Bear State Bank

7.9 Business Community Forum 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.15 Member Orientation 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.9 Ambassadors Monthly Meeting 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.16 Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Candlewood Suites

7.27 Ambassadors About Town 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Location TBD

For information on other upcoming events visit the complete calendar online at RogersLowell.com

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS

Jeremy Barclay, Northwest Health System Jerry Carmichael, TY International Inc. Mike Clawson, Del Monte Foods, Inc. Bob Clinard, Benton County Judge Dr. Janie Darr, Rogers Public Schools Rich Davis, SourceGas Arkansas Inc. Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp. Sandy Edwards, Crystal Bridges Museum Spencer Fox, NWA Emerging Leaders; Simmons Bank Dan Hendrix, World Trade Center Arkansas Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers Chris Johnson, Cabela’s Brad Jones, New Creature Dr. Evelyn Jorgenson, NWACC Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center David Lang, Embassy Suites NWA Eldon Long, Mayor, City of Lowell Jeff Milford, AEP/SWEPCO Charles Nevin, Advantage Sales & Marketing Dawn Spragg, Central United Methodist Church Thom Stathakis, Everett Buick GMC Chris Sultemeier, Walmart Dick Trammel, Arkansas Highway Commission Vicki Vasser, Matthews, Campbell, Rhoads, McClure, Thompson, & Fryauf, P.A.

View complete calendar at RogersLowell.com

DIVISION CHAIRS

Community Development – Erin Kiefer Membership Services – Vicki Vasser Economic Development – Jeff Milford Government Affairs – Jerry Carmichael Convention & Visitors Bureau – David Lang

AUDIT COMMITTEE Guy Cable Frank Bailey David Hale

For information on other meetings including the Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders and Leadership Benton County go to the complete calendar online at RogersLowell.com

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 P: (479) 636-1240 F: (479) 636-5485

Paid for through Periodical “Chamber Voice” (USPS 492950) is published monthly in January, February, 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 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.

staff Raymond Burns, CCE President/CEO rburns@rogerslowell.com

Steve Cox Vice President of Economic Development steve@rogerslowell.com

Brooklynn Wiley Director of Special Events brooklynn@rogerslowell.com

Katie Wright Assistant to the President katie@rogerslowell.com

J.R. Shaw Senior Vice President | Visit Rogers jr@rogerslowell.com

Jon Moran Vice President of Government Affairs jon@rogerslowell.com

Jacque Eakins Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com

Ashley Matsumura Information Specialist ashley@rogerslowell.com

Shelle Summers Senior Vice President of Membership Services ssummers@rogerslowell.com

Whitney Yoder, IOM Vice President of Community Development whitney@rogerslowell.com

Marni Rogers Member Services Representative marni@rogerslowell.com

Amanda Mills Information Specialist amanda@rogerslowell.com

Vickie Grotts Vice President of Accounting & Finance vickie@rogerslowell.com

Judy Diffee Finance Manager judy@rogerslowell.com

Erin Jernigan Convention Sales Manager | Visit Rogers erin@rogerslowell.com

Brad Phillips Vice President of Marketing Communications brad@rogerslowell.com

Nick Smith Creative Services Manager nick@rogerslowell.com

Kelly Parker Sports Marketing Manager | Visit Rogers kelly@rogerslowell.com

2 Chamber Voice | JULY2015

...Continued from Page 1 years that number grew to $81,003 for 2015. In a report released in June by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Benton County topped all other counties in the nation for average wage growth over a one year period (ending in the fourth quarter of 2014) by increasing 9.9 percent (the best increase out of the 339 largest counties). The national average was 3.5 percent average wage growth. When you look at all of the growth in Rogers - business, population, wages, including workforce and business development - you get a clear picture of what the economic development efforts of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce encapsulate.

The Good Life | Living and Working in Rogers

The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce works hard every day to make this city a better place to live and a better place for businesses to grow and thrive. Whether that is working with the four industries that have announced expansion plans this year, bringing with them over 100 new high-paying jobs and over $1.3 million in capital investment, partnering with local educators and connecting them to industries to help graduate students that are ready to enter the labor force through the K2J Connect events,

or using subject matter experts to educate businesses about pressing issues through our Chamber University programs, the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is focused and committed to our community. Rogers has much to celebrate and be thankful for, but our work is not done. The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce has no plans of slowing down and is taking the leadership roles with economic development and workforce development. The Chamber approaches every day with a focus on fulfilling its mission: Growing Business. Building Community.

“The growth we are seeing in Rogers-Lowell and Northwest Arkansas is amazing, but it does not happen without effort and takes everyone working together to keep this momentum up and great things happening for our city and region.” – Steve Cox, Vice President of Economic Development

Business Community Forum | Open Carry Issue July 9 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at the Cham- do not want customers to bring weapons into ber’s Downtown Rogers offices. their locations? When is it appropriate to call Thursday, July 9 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. the police if a business owner or employee Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce What Do You Need to Know? feels threatened? 317 West Walnut St. | Downtown Rogers With recent stories hitting the news about RSVP Required via Email law enforcement officers not making arrests Join the Discussion To help bring clarification to this issue, BenThe Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Com- for openly carrying firearms in Benton County, merce hosts open forums as needed to help it leaves unanswered questions for many local ton County Prosecutor Nathan Smith, Rogers its member businesses learn more about key businesses. What rights do businesses and Police Chief Hayes Minor, and Rogers City Staff issues by facilitating discussion and providing business owners have in light of these recent Attorney Chris Griffin will answer your questions opinions and official statements about open on this important issue. Please RSVP to Steve Cox useful information. The next forum is scheduled for Thursday, carry? What options do businesses have if they at steve@rogerslowell.com if you plan to attend.

BUSINESS COMMUNITY FORUM

RogersLowell.com | JULY2015

Independence Day Celebrations | NWA Fireworks Displays Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July or July Fourth, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from Great Britain. Celebrate America’s Independence at these Fireworks Displays!

Friday, July 3

Saturday, July 4

Where: Northwest Arkansas Mall More info: northwestarkansasmall.com Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Free Family Activities, Concert by Boom Kinetic in the upper JCPenney parking lot, Inflatables Outside, Activities Inside. Fireworks Display will be at approx. 9:25 p.m. Media Partners: KFSM TV5 and Magic 107.9

Where: The Walmart Amp What: New NWA Tradition! July 4th Fireworks Spectacular Featuring SoNA with Music Director Paul Haas Time: Gates open at 6:00 p.m. Music starts at 7:00 p.m. Tickets on the lawn are $5 – includes entrance for 1 adult and up to 4 children. Tickets in the seated, covered area are $10 More info: rogersarkansas.com

Uptown Fayetteville Freedom Fireworks Display

Bella Vista Independence Day Fireworks

Where: Loch Lomond Dam What: Fireworks sponsored by the City of Bella Vista. Time: 9:30 p.m. or dusk More info: bellavistapoa.com

Prairie Creek Marina and Cabela’s Firework Display Where: Prairie Creek Marina What: Fireworks Display Time: Dark (around 9:00 p.m.) More info: prairiecreekmarina.com

4 Chamber Voice | JULY2015

City of Rogers Fireworks Display

An Evening at Orchards Park | Bentonville

Where: Orchards Park What: Entertainment – Kaylee Rutland and the Arkansas Winds Orchestra Time: 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. More info: bentonvillear.com

Fourth at the Field

Where: Arvest Ballpark What: Fourth at the Field will include an exhibition baseball game between two teams from the M.I.N.K Collegiate Baseball League, the Joplin Outlaws and the Nevada Griffons, which will begin at 6:35 p.m. Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. for the special event and the Naturals will have Kansas City Royals Kid Zone passes available for

purchase for the four inflatables as well as the Kids Train, Speed Pitch, and the Bella Vista POA 5-hole Mini Golf Course open throughout the game. The Arvest Ballpark concessions stands will also be open throughout the night and ALL seating is General Admission within the seating bowl. Following the exhibition game, the Fireworks Spectacular will start at approximately 9:05 p.m. to conclude the night. Time: Game at 6:35 p.m. and fireworks to follow More info: nwanaturals.com

13th Annual Ventris Trail’s End Resort Fireworks Display

Where: Ventris Trail’s End Resort What: Fireworks display, intended to be viewed on a boat from Beaver Lake. Time: 8:00 p.m. More info: beaverlakeresorts.com (Click Fireworks Display)

Rodeo of the Ozarks

Where: Parsons Stadium What: The last day of the 71st Annual Rodeo of the Ozarks. A fireworks display will take place after the rodeo. Time: Gates at 6:00 p.m., the rodeo starts at 7:00 p.m., and the fireworks begin after the rodeo. More info: parsonsstadium.com

THE REGION'S LARGEST BUSINESS EXPO Showcase Your Products & Services

Booth Specification & Pricing

The Northwest Arkansas (NWA) Business Expo is an excellent opportunity to showcase your products and services to over a thousand attendees (businesses and consumers). It's the largest business exposition in the area, perfect for increasing awareness of your brand and trial of your products and services.

MEMBER:

Class A Booth: $550 Class B Booth: $425 Class C Booth: $225 Non-Profit Booth: $100

NON-MEMBER:

Connect with New Customers & Contacts

The 2015 Expo will be held from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the John Q. Hammons Convention Center in Rogers on Tuesday, August 11. This is a first-class experience packed with opportunities to connect with new customers and contacts.

Connections Start Here | Become a Sponsor!

Sponsorship of the event enables you to promote your business to influential business people in Northwest Arkansas. It's a perfect forum to connect with new business partnerships and gain exposure.

Class A Booth: $675 Class B Booth: $550 Class C Booth: $350 Non-Profit Booth: $150

What’s included with Expo Registration?

Each booth exhibitor will receive the following: – 10’x10’ booth space, including pipe & drape – 8’ table with covering & two chairs – One standard 110-volt electrical outlet – Extensive promotional campaign targeted to reach thousands of attendees through local media outlets

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS MONDAY 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. EXPO KICK-OFF PARTY at Crossland Construction (on their balcony) Network with other Exhibitors & Chamber Members

TUESDAY 10:00 a.m. NWA BUSINESS EXPO EXPO FLOOR OPENS

TUESDAY | 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. GONE IN 60 SECONDS ELEVATOR PITCH CONTEST | Featured judges include Dr. John James (Acumen Brands) and Bill Sussman (Collective Bias) FREE Attendance for Expo Attendees FREE Registration for G60 Participants ONLY Participants Must Pre-Register

Kick-Off Party Networking Sponsor

TUESDAY 4:00 p.m. EXPO FLOOR CLOSES

FOR MORE INFO CALL (479) 636-1240

Kick-Off Party Host Sponsor

Media Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Expo Sponsors

Exhibitors Lounge Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Expo Bag Sponsor

SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE. Visit RogersLowell.com for more details.

RogersLowell.com | JULY2015

Counselors and Mentors to NWA’s Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs

ne advantage of Chamber membership is the access to personal guidance and resources available to help start, run and grow your small business. One partner organization that the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce works with is SCORE, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. It is America’s premier source of free and confidential small business mentoring and advisory services. More than half a million entrepreneurs count on SCORE each year for help with fulfilling their dream of starting or growing a small business.

How Does SCORE Work?

SCORE’s mission is to aid in the formation, growth and success of small business. Some SCORE volunteers are retired; some are still working. All SCORE mentors donate their time as a community volunteer service. Many people ask how SCORE can mentor area entrepreneurs free of charge. There are two reasons. First, SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA provides SCORE with funding to help operate SCORE chapters. Chapters can also raise funds and accept donations to help local expenses. Second, SCORE’s mission is to serve the public to help small businesses

grow and prosper. SCORE’s mentors want local entre- the best of both worlds. And, sometimes the most preneurs to succeed—that’s why they donate. valuable service a mentor can provide is a sense of perspective. SCORE mentors can offer your business Northwest Arkansas (NWA) SCORE an economic context to help plan for success. NWA SCORE provides services on a broad specFinally, all SCORE volunteers are guided by a trum of business topics. Volunteers work through- Code of Ethics to protect your privacy. They keep out Northwest, Western and North Arkansas. Since your mentoring sessions strictly confidential. SCORE’s 2011, NWA SCORE has helped almost 1,400 area only goal is helping small businesses succeed. businesses. Mentors understand the needs and challenges of starting and managing successful busi- Learn More About SCORE nesses because they’ve experienced them. Most have Visit their booth (SBA/SCORE) at the NWA owned and operated their own businesses or served Business Expo on August 11 for information, helpin corporate management or both. Some also have ful tools and resources. To register to become a deep experience in the nonprofit arena including SCORE client visit the chapter web site at www. fund raising, management, marketing and strategy. nwascore.org and click on Find a Local Mentor. Each volunteer strives not only to assist small National SCORE also offers business informabusiness development but also to serve as mentors tion resources, including workshops, seminars, to their clients as the businesses progress. Based on business tools and templates that are useful to an entrepreneur’s needs, business mentoring with entrepreneurs at www.score.org. You may also SCORE can last just a few sessions or evolve into an contact David Bernstein, Chapter Chair, at info@ ongoing mentoring relationship. nwascore.org or call toll free (800) 646-0450. NWA SCORE counselors understand the demands placed upon entrepreneurs, who must be generalists that can run the whole show. They believe this mix of mentors and skills offers entrepreneurs

Congratulations to Core Brewing Company This month’s winner is Core Brewing Company – Rogers Brew Pub |

Core Brewing Company – Rogers Brew Pub takes pride in supporting local businesses and charities throughout the Northwest Arkansas community. Whether it’s a donation of time, beer, or merchandise they do their best to help the community. The company actively supports American Diabetes Association, Havenwood, Cobblestone Project, and Kendrick Fincher Hydration Foundation to name just a few. This thriving small business that is extremely active in our community is the winner of the July 2015 Small Business of the Month. Presented By |

July 2015 Winner | casIenc. S h oy &wA w ards,

T roph

Engravable Gifts Awards Trophies

Rogers Historic District

6 Chamber Voice | JULY2015

ro g e rs , a r k a n s a s august 1-2, 2015

w w w. ro g e rs c y cl i n g f e s t i va l . c o m

Saturday @ 7:30 a.m.

Saturday @ 9:30 a.m.

ROAD | 11-mile mass start time trial with a joint finish in downtown Rogers to beat the A&M Train MOUNTAIN | 6-mile course over single track with a joint finish in downtown Rogers to beat the A&M Train

2-person mountain bike relay totaling approximately 14 miles.

Saturday @ 9:30 a.m.

USA cycling sanctioned 3-person team trial for road cyclists over a 10-mile course.

Saturday @ 5:00 p.m.

Sunday @ 7:00 a.m.

USA cycling sanctioned road race on a 6.1-mile loop. Categories for elite and intermediate men and women.

pres

A 1.26-mile family, leisure ride through historic downtown Rogers. REGISTER AT THE EVENT - $5 PER PERSON

enting sponsors

All events benefit access to cycling through the Community Bike Program and Pedal it Forward For more information about the event and to view a complete list of sponsors visit our website at www.RogersCyclingFestival.com RogersLowell.com | JULY2015

EPA Honors Stitt Energy Systems, Inc.

Pictured (L to R): Orlo Stitt, President of Stitt Energy, Jonathan Passe, Director of the EPA’s Energy Star Residential Program, and David Stitt, Vice President of Stitt Energy

April 20 | 2015 – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized Stitt Energy Systems, Inc. in Rogers with the 2015 ENERGY STAR Special Recognition Award in Homebuilding to honor its legacy as an ENERGY STAR builder. Stitt was recognized in Washington, D.C. on April 20, 2015. Stitt Energy, an ENERGY STAR partner since 1996, was honored for its longstanding commitment in the program to construct homes that meet ENERGY STAR specifications. Its homes typically include solar electric and solar water heating systems, which save 20 percent or more energy compared to the baseline ENERGY STAR home. “As our ENERGY STAR Certified New Homes program celebrates 20 years, I applaud Stitt for its long-standing commitment to building homes that are not only energy-efficient, but also help preserve a healthy planet for future generations,” said EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. “Builders such as Stitt Energy Systems are helping Americans save money, save energy, and do their part to reduce our nation’s greenhouse gas emissions that fuel climate change.”

Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Benton County to Celebrate Scholarship Recipients at Student Benefit Kayaking Tours of Beaver Lake to be Held at Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area

July | 2015 – Hobbs State Park –Conservation Area is offering several guided, interpretive kayak tours of Beaver Lake on July 1, 15, 29 and 31 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. These relaxing paddling tours will introduce you to the hidden diversity of Hobbs State Park. Experience the beauty of this precious resource while paddling a kayak through a quiet cove of the lake. Recreational kayaks, paddles and lifejackets will be provided. Space is limited, and open to 13 years and older. Bring a snack, water, sunscreen, and dress for the weather. The cost is only $12.00 per person. Registration and pre-payment are required. Call (479) 789-5000 to register.

8 Chamber Voice | JULY2015

August 13 | 2015 – Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Benton County (SPSF/BC) will be celebrating over 30 years of student successes with community partners, students and graduates at their annual Student Benefit presented by Arvest Bank and Walmart/Sam’s Club. The Student Benefit will take place on Thursday, August 13, 2015 at Embassy Suites Northwest Arkansas in Rogers with a Reception starting at 5:30 p.m. and the Dinner and Program starting at 6:00 p.m. Jonathan Martinez of KNWA will be the Master of Ceremonies at the event. Guest Speakers include, SPSF/BC Student, Ashley Bell and SPSF/BC Board Chairman, Judy Hammond. SPSF/BC will be recognizing nearly 150 students for their achievements at this year’s event. For more information on how to support the Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Benton County and impact the lives of a single parent family visit www.spsfbc.org or contact them by email at spsfbc@spsfbc.org or by phone at (479) 254-8550.

ORT “Kids Ride Free” Summer Program

Through September 4 | 2015 – Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) has four fixed routes in Fayetteville, four in Springdale, two in Rogers and one in Bentonville. Also, two express route bus services—one, hourly between Fayetteville and Bentonville which is very popular and free for NWACC students, and another, 1 ½ hour express route between West Fork and Lincoln—that connects multiple communities in Northwest Arkansas. In keeping with its eight year tradition of the “Kids Ride Free” summer program, ORT has committed to providing this program once again in 2015, on all fixed routes. Three malls, three aquatic centers, nine public libraries, four movie theatres and multiple other entertainment venues, including the Jones Center, await passengers using the bus system. Access to these amenities, in addition to the recentlyopened Razorback Greenway, are expected to cause a ridership increase over last year’s numbers. Free fare service dates are available through Friday, September 4, 2015. Free fare service is open to anyone born in 1998 or later; essentially, age 17 or younger. Children under age 12 are required to have an older guardian accompanying them.

Be Bold, Arkansas!

Why Economic Development and High-Paying Jobs Should Be Arkansas’ Primary Goals

lmost every statewide elected official in the modern history of Arkansas political campaigns runs on the platform that economic development, job retention, and job creation are their top priorities -- truly noble goals, indeed, for all of us to support and aspire to. It’s a platform that looks and sounds good, and nobody has ever lost any votes advocating for more jobs. It’s also reliable political strategy, and it’s a big part of the winning formula if you want to wage a successful race for higher office.

Economic Development Incentives Create Job Opportunity

Arkansas is not unlike any other state, in that it has had mixed results over the years in its efforts to lure big projects to the region to spur economic development. Arkansas has landed some big projects, and has also lost some big projects over the years. Ask anyone who was around Little Rock in the 1970’s what it was like when Fred Smith and his small but growing company, which had been founded and headquartered at the Little Rock Airport, left for neighboring Memphis because of offers of better incentives. Most of you know who

Fred Smith is, but for those of you who don’t recognize the name right away, he has a little company called Federal Express. Imagine for a moment what Central Arkansas’ economy would look like today if we had competed for those approximately 250 FedEx jobs. Here’s some clarification to spur your imagination: Federal Express now has the world’s fourth largest airline fleet and employs approximately 30,000 people in Memphis. In today’s global economy, no company or economic development project is too small or too large to take for granted. Our fellow SEC member states of Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, South Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi are all vying for similar opportunities and positioning themselves to offer comparable or greater incentives than Arkansas to attract and land these potentially profitable economic development enterprises. In 1993, Alabama was laughed at for offering $300 million to lure a Mercedes automobile manufacturing facility to its state. At the time, economic development professionals from around the country said that was way too much to spend to attract one automobile manufacturer. However, there are currently six automobile manufacturing facilities located in Alabama and they are thriving.

Arkansas Favors the Bold

Everybody is in the incentives game now. Every developed country in the world and every state in the United States offer some types of incentives to attract and maintain major business opportunities. This is the reality of the world we live in at this moment in time. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission once employed a slogan that stated, “Arkansas Favors the Bold.” In today’s competitive global economy, there is absolutely no other way to be than bold, confident, forward-thinking, and resolute.

Jon Moran Vice President of Government Affairs Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

50th Annual Daisy National BB Gun Championship Match in Rogers July 3-5

he 50th Annual Daisy National BB Gun Championship Match will be held at the John Q. Hammons Convention Center in Rogers July 3-5. As with any sport, the fun is in the competition, which is why Daisy’s shooting safety and marksmanship education program also includes a competition facet. All across the country, in small classroom settings, young people are instructed on the proper handling of guns, shooting safety rules, shooting positions and marksmanship skills. Marksmanship teams, formed by these organizations, shoot weekly then compete on a local and state level. Only teams which compete and place in the top three spots in a state championship match are eligible to compete in the Daisy National BB Gun Championship Match, which was first held in Dayton, Ohio in 1965. Daisy

brought this prestigious event to Rogers in 2010 where it has been held ever since. This year, 68 teams of seven athletes, ages eight to 15, have qualified to compete.

Athletes shoot a muzzle-loaded singleshot BB gun, the Daisy AVANTI Champion Model 499. They will shoot in four positions: prone, standing, sitting, and kneeling and be scored on a safety exam in order to qualify for individual and team medals. For more information, visit www.daisy.com/daisynationals. It is estimated that 2,000 athletes, parents, coaches and guests will attend opening ceremonies on Friday evening, July 3. Spectators are welcome to observe the match on July 4-5.

RogersLowell.com | JULY2015

June NWAEL Social Beer Run Photo Recap*

Special thanks to our partners who made this fun evening possible | Ozark Beer Company, Brick Street Brews, Rush Running and Popâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hog Wild

*Photos provided by Marty Shutter, Ozark Beer Company

Your daily subscription includes access to local, state, national and world news delivered to your home every morning and at your fingertips throughout the day. Stay connected to Your Community with #OurPaper.

10 Chamber Voice | JULY2015

Annual Chamber Picnic May 29 | Thanks for Joining Us!

he annual Chamber Picnic was a huge success thanks to our sponsors and to everyone who took the time to come out and join us May 29 at Ward Nail Park in Lowell. Each year our members provide us hours of volunteer service, give discounts on goods needed for Chamber programs and donate everything from fishing lures to snack cakes for our events. The annual picnic is our way of expressing gratitude for all the things (big and small) our members, friends, and family do for us. It was a fun time visiting and cooking out together. Thank you again for all of the support you give to the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce. Thank You to Our Sponsors |

May B2B Speed Networking Breakfast a Success

usiness-to-Business (B2B) quarterly events are some of the Chamber’s most popular networking dates. This year’s B2B Networking program features four quarterly events - two lunch and two breakfast. The first B2B networking breakfast event was held on May 27 from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton in Bentonville with close to 60 business people participating. For only $30 ($20 for members) participants did some “speed networking” by promoting their products and services in two minutes to contacts at their table before being rotated to additional tables for more networking. Ticket prices included breakfast meal, speaker presentations from Bailey & Oliver Law Firm and Lewis Automotive Group, round-robin “speed networking”, company marketing and chances to win great door prizes.

Thank You to this Year’s B2B Sponsors Presenting Sponsor

Presenting Sponsor

SAVE THE DATE | September 30

B2B Networking (Lunch) Event at Keypoint Church, 3700 Medical Center Pkwy., Bentonville from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

RogersLowell.com | JULY2015

Welcome NEW MEMBERS | May 2015 Arkansas Athletes Outreach (AAO) Gretchen Laffoon 1515 Burr Oak Dr. Fayetteville, AR 72704 (479) 442-9979 | aaoteam.org Organizations Cavender’s Byron Norton 2604 W. Pleasant Crossing Dr. Rogers, AR 72758 (479) 636-1308 | cavenders.com Retail Specialty Stores Chambers Bank Jon Allen 1100 S. Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712 (479) 582-6047 | chambers-bank.com Banks and Banking Associations Decor Construction, Inc. Don Massey 1722 N. College Ave. Fayetteville, AR 72703 (479) 595-3859 | decorconstruction.com Contractors - Roofing

Freedom Services Cheryl Cook Rogers, AR 72758 (479) 721-8674 | YourWealthIsYourFreedom.com Credit Card Merchant Processing

Squeaky Clean Services Gerald Martin Bella Vista, AR 72714 (479) 426-5380 Cleaning Services

Movement Mortgage LLC Charity Cummings 5305 Village Pkwy., Ste. 9 Rogers, AR 72758 (417) 894-4193 | movement.com Mortgage Loans & Bankers

SuperSue’s Little Treasures Karen Hill 320 N. Bloomington St. Lowell, AR 72745 (479) 305-0074 Consignment/Resale Shops

Ozark Mountain Trading Co. & Outfitters Bruce Jenkins 14644 E. Hwy. 62 Garfield, AR 72732 (918) 809-5357 | ozarkmtc.com Outdoor Sports

Techsico Robert Gorham 2231 Lowell Rd., Ste. F4 Springdale, AR 72764 (479) 877-3572 | techsico.com Audio/Visual Equipment & Production

Rausch Coleman Homes Justin Williams 1550 Kelley Dr. Rogers, AR 72758 (479) 461-8887 | rauschcolemanhomes.com Real Estate - Developers and Investors

KNWAnews

12 Chamber Voice | JULY2015

@KNWAnews

May 2015

CAVENDER’S 2604 Pleasant Crossing Dr., Rogers

EVOLVE PALEO 117 S. Dixieland Rd., Ste. A, Lowell

MOLLY MAID 100 Dixieland Rd., Rogers

SAVE THE DATE | Wednesday, July 15 |

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Sponsor |

Learn more about your Chamber of Commerce and the programs that benefit you and your business at Member Orientation. Here’s an opportunity to familiarize yourself and your employees with all of the benefits available through your Chamber membership. You’ll learn more about the Chamber’s website and how it helps to promote your business, and more about Chamber advertising media to incorporate into your marketing plan. Member Orientation is offered every other month during the year. This orientation

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 317 W. Walnut St. | Rogers Free and Open to Members Registration Required

is beneficial for new members, members that want a refresher on what the Chamber has to offer and new company representatives. It’s an excellent overview of Chamber networking events and other programs all designed to help grow your business and Presenting Sponsor | make the most of your membership. Member Orientation is conducted by members of the Small Business Council and is free and open to all members. Please register as space is limited to the first 40 respondents.

Platinum Sponsor |

Gold Sponsor |

rogerslowell.com Responsive Web Design for Optimal Viewing on Desktop, Tablet or Smartphone Optimized Information Architecture for Intuitive Navigation New Content and Features

J U LY 2 0 1 5 RogersLowell.com | JULY2015

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | May 2015 30+ years

AT&T - 69 years Bruce-Rogers Company - 63 years Pel Freez Arkansas, LLC - 62 years Arkansas Workforce Center of Rogers - 57 years Cox Communications - 54 years Prairie Creek Development - 51 years Nabholz Construction - 42 years Prairie Creek Marina - 35 years Sonic Drive-In #1247 - 31 years

21-30 years

Beaver Lake Aviation Dyer Electric, Inc. First Baptist Church of Rogers New Hope Animal Hospital Open Avenues Ozark Natural Science Center Pea Ridge National Military Park Dr. Robert R. Hull, MD PA Tallchamps, LLC

11-20 years

Acme Janitor & Chemical Supply, Inc. Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette Crossland Construction First Baptist Church of Lowell Frost, PLLC Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

Perkowitz & Ruth Architects SCORE Chapter 0511 Judge John Scott Sonic Benton Properties, Inc. Steve Fineberg & Associates Inc. TownePlace Suites by Marriott

6-10 years

AAA Insurance - Stennett Thompkins ABC Supply Academic Math & Language Therapy Advantage Sales & Marketing Andy’s Frozen Custard Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Arkansas Arkansas Automatic Sprinklers, Inc. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Foundation Arkansas Federal Credit Union Arkansas Security Brown’s Collision Center Casey Lock & Key, Inc. Chick-fil-A of Tuscany Square Commercial Communications, Inc. Core Architects Dancenhance Entertainment Dynamic Storage Ernst & Young LLP First Bank of Arkansas H & R Block Harps Food Store, Inc. Holiday Inn & Suites

Hull Dermatology JAFRA Skin Care Johnny Brusco’s New York Style Pizza Jordan Essentials - Lissa Applewhite Kendrick Fincher Hydration Foundation KLRC Radio Dr. Matthew B. Harrison McGhee Isnurance Agency, Inc. N.O.S.S. Inc/N Out Sreening Services, Inc. Nabholz Construction Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter NWA Restore It Pinnacle Car Services Providence Classical Christian Academy Raymond James & Associates Saving Grace, Inc. Smith Family Chiropractic & Acupuncture, Inc. Staples State Farm Insurance - Bryan Lewis Surplus Warehouse Wachter Electric Company WestArk RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer) Wildenborg, Delony & Davidson

2-5 years

Arkansas Periodontal & Implant Associates Brent Manning’s Credit Cars, Inc. Caboodles Clark Contractors, LLC

Clifford Consulting Group Crain Hyundai of Springdale Download Networking LLC Eagle Vision Investments Frazier Law Firm, PLC Harness Roofing, Inc. - HRI Highlands Oncology Group, P.A. Hull Aesthetics Innisfree Health and Rehab Integrity First Bank Kinty Jones Heating & Cooling La Finca Market NWA Towing & Recovery, Inc. Sign Studio Smokin’ Joes Ribhouse, Inc. SoNA/Symphony of Northwest Arkansas Souls Harbor of Rogers, Inc. Team Direct Management Tropical Smoothie Café

1 year

Capital Abstract & Title Co., LLC Dilbert Consulting Group Edafio Technology Partners Everything Beautiful Modern Mission Outdoor Laser Tag & Indoor Battlefield Patterson Home Builders, Inc. Whittle Truck Sales

Inaugural Virginia Mocivnik Award Honors Dedication to Community

he Chamber’s Education commit- colleagues to organize the summer reading days tee presented the inaugural Virginia at DoubleTree Apartments and volunteers her Mocivnik Award to Ms. Dawna Rice from time at the Samaritan Community Center. Northside Elementary in May. The comThe community work that Ms. Rice has demmittee created this new award in Virginia’s honor to recognize an educator that demonstrates a dedication to the community above and beyond their work in the classroom. Throughout her years of service, Virginia Mocivnik believed that education is one of the most important vehicles to affect positive societal change. As a business leader she worked on many projects throughout the school system and community including the lobbying of the school superintendent and parks and recreation director to start a girls’ athletic program. Ms. Rice is a reading and intervention teacher who works to ensure that her students have a comfortable, secure learning environment. She takes 2015 Virginia Mocivnik Award Winner time to get to know each child and their family. Ms. Dawna Rice from Northside Elementary During the summer months, she works with her

14 Chamber Voice | JULY2015

onstrated outside of the classroom embodies the spirit of Virginia Mocivnik. Join the Education committee in congratulating her on receiving this inaugural award!

Virginia Mocivnik (namesake of this award)

Chamber Networking & Educational Events The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a variety of events to help build your network and learn. For more event details and to register, visit us online at RogersLowell.com.

Presenting Sponsors:

Arvest Bank George Nunnally Chevrolet

Hosted by:

Location:

July 14, 2015

Bear State Bank

2000 Promenade Blvd., Rogers

August 4, 2015

Cox Business

TBD

Hosted by:

Location:

July 16, 2015

Candlewood Suites Hotel

4601 W. Rozell St., Rogers

August 20, 2015

Bailey & Oliver Law Firm

3606 Southern Hills Blvd., Ste. 200 Rogers

Speaker:

Topic:

John Drexler with NWA SCORE

Business Etiquette

Host Sponsors:

Location:

Cox Business Keypoint Church

Keypoint Church 3700 Medical Center Pkwy., Bentonville

Hosted at:

Location:

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

317 West Walnut St., Rogers

Presenting Sponsor: Cherokee Casino

Sunrise Seminar Series Presenting Sponsor: First Western

Sunrise Seminar Series Series Sponsor: KNWA

July 1, 2015

Sunrise Seminar Series Breakfast Sponsor: Sweet D’z Express Bakery

Presenting Sponsor:

Bailey & Oliver Law Firm

September 30, 2015 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Presenting Sponsor: Sam’s Club

Platinum Sponsor:

Crain Automotive Team

July 15, 2015

Gold Sponsor: Arvest Bank

Advertising with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce e Your Banner Ad Her The Good Life

Advertise in the annual tourism and relocation 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 2016-2017 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.

Your Banner Ad Here Chamber Voice

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, products and services to decision-makers. Ads are due on the 10th and inserts due on the 15th of the month prior to each issue. Call for an Advertising Contract now.

eNewsletters

On Mondays (Monday Memo) and Thursdays (Calendar at a Glance) the Chamber communicates weekly to over 5,000 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.

RogersLowell.com | JULY2015

317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 RogersLowell.com