Chamber Voice | July 2016

JULY2016 | Vol 11 Issue 7

Together, WE Made a Difference | Impact Possible 2016 Results

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mpact Possible: 2016 is the Chamber’s fiveyear strategic funding campaign that creates IMPACT to the community by initiating economic development opportunities, maintaining a business-friendly environment, providing resources to help businesses succeed, and enhancing quality-of-life. Over the past five years, the Impact Possible 2016 campaign helped us to make a real difference in our community and region.

Thanks to our members’ investment and support, the leadership of the Board of Directors, and

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Events and Meetings

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the hard work and commitment of our staff, the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce has earned a highly respected, positive local and regional reputation, and a well-deserved national reputation for outstanding economic, community development and small business initiatives and successes.

The Chamber continues to be the Voice of Business. Since 1922, your Chamber has been working to promote a healthy and vibrant economy while protecting and advancing the interests of our members and the community as a whole. And the

Together, WE Made a Difference continued

2016 Season Is Over for Arkansas’s Other Spectator Sport NWAEL May Social | Progressive Wine Pairing and Mixer NWA BizCon 2016 | November 1; Small Business of the 2nd Quarter

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K2J Connect Brings Educators and Industries Together to Talk Workforce

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Independence Day Celebrations | NWA Fireworks Displays; Spring Golf Recap and Winners

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2016 Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair Helps Put People Back to Work; May B2B Speed Networking Breakfast a Success

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Focus On The Community – 50th Annual Daisy National BB Gun Championship Match & Other Stories from the Community

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Focus On The Community continued

impact we’ve made together over the past five (5) years would not have been possible were it not for our member investors.

Here are some highlights of the results achieved for the Rogers-Lowell area during the past five years of Impact Possible 2016.

• The Chamber is now one (1) of only 102 Chambers in the nation with 5-Star Accreditation which recognizes excellence in planning and performance.

• A total of three business expansion Continued on Page 3...

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Welcome New Members | May 2016; Chamber University Sunrise Seminar Series | The Power of LinkedIn

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Ribbon Cuttings | May 2016

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Chamber Membership Renewals | May 2016

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Chamber Networking & Educational Events

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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

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

2016 DIRECTORS

Greg Fogle, Nabholz Construction David Hale, Digital Printing Solutions Rick McWhirt, Bekaert Corporation Jeff Ratcliff 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 J.D. Davis, AMP Sign & Banner Frank Bailey, Bailey & Oliver Law Firm

2018 DIRECTORS

Jon Harrell, Generations Bank Keri Earwood, Shelter Insurance Jeff Milford, AEP/SWEPCO Tina Winham, NUK – USA Dennis Ferguson, Simmons Bank David Roth, WorkMatters

business-building events designed for you

upcoming meetings

7.12 Coffee Connection 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

Hiebert Dental Care

7.7 Small Business Council Meeting 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.14 Chamber University - Sunrise Seminar Series Topic: The Power of LinkedIn 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.11 Ambassadors About Town 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Pinnacle Bar & Grill 7.13 Rogers Advertising & Promotion Commission 4:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.20 Member Orientation 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.15 Government Affairs Committee Meeting 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

7.21 Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Erdos at Home

7.21 Ambassador Monthly Meeting 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

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

7.28 Board of Directors Meeting 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS

Jeremy Barclay - Northwest Health System Jerry Carmichael - TY North America - LLC 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 Dan Hendrix - Arkansas World Trade Center Greg Hines - Mayor - City of Rogers Chris Johnson - Cabela’s Dr. Evelynn Jorgenson - NWACC President Peter Lane - Walton Arts Center David Lang - Embassy Suites NWA Eldon Long - Mayor - City of Lowell Charles Nevin - Advantage Sales & Marketing Dawn Spragg - CUMC Thom Stathakis - Everett Buick GMC Chris Sultemeier - Walmart Dick Trammel - Arkansas Highway Commission Mike Williams - NWA Emerging Leaders (WorkMatters)

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

View complete calendar at RogersLowell.com

DIVISION CHAIRS

Community Development - Tina Winham Membership Services - Keri Earwood Economic Development - Jeff Milford Government Affairs - Jerry Carmichael Convention & Visitors Bureau - David Lang

AUDIT COMMITTEE David Hale Frank Bailey Jon Harrell

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

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

Amy Gober Director of Community Development amy@rogerslowell.com

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

J.R. Shaw Executive Director/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

Katie Wright Assistant to the President katie@rogerslowell.com

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

Karen Wagaman Vice President of Downtown Development karen@rogerslowell.com

Marni Rogers Member Relations Manager marni@rogerslowell.com

Ashley Matsumura Information Specialist ashley@rogerslowell.com

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

Judy Diffee Finance Manager judy@rogerslowell.com

Nick Smith Creative Services Manager nick@rogerslowell.com

Amanda Mills Information Specialist amanda@rogerslowell.com

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

Brooklynn Wiley Director of Special Events brooklynn@rogerslowell.com

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

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...Continued from Page 1 announcements in the past seven months alone have totaled $312 million in new capital investment (representing 33 percent of the regional total since 2012) and resulted in 2,500 announced jobs.

• Since 2010, a total of 9,471 jobs have been created (12.8 percent of total regional job growth) in Rogers.

• Median household annual income has increased 18.4 percent since 2010 to $55,531.

• Since 2015, a total of 700 parents have attended two (2) Connect Parent Forums explaining workforce and career opportunities.

• Career and Technical Education (CTE) has served a total of 5,779 students since 2013, an increase of 84 percent.

• The Chamber’s leadership development program, Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders, now has 667 active members.

Impact Possible 2016 enabled your Chamber to focus and place emphasis on the creation of new primary jobs and to provide support to a significant number of existing and new businesses. Together, we have continued to strengthen our economy for both the Rogers-Lowell Area and the Northwest Arkansas region.

We thank all of our campaign investors for investing and helping us with our efforts for “Growing Business and Building Community.”

Regional Accomplishments Most Economic Growth in 2016 Northwest Arkansas is No. 7 among 18 regions that will see the most economic growth in 2016, according to research by the U.S. Conference of Mayors in June 2015.

Fastest Growing Economy through 2020

What’s Next

Many of our members recently participated in a Feasibility Analysis through one-on-one confidential interviews. In these interviews we sought feedback to learn what we have done well, where we can improve, and where to find new areas of opportunity to continue growing the economy of Northwest Arkansas.

We appreciate those who participated and provided feedback and ideas.

The comprehensive Feasibility Analysis Report has been presented to the Chamber Board of Directors who listened closely to our members’ collective comments. We were encouraged by the feedback and level of excitement that exists in our community to not only continue our efforts to help grow business and expand our economy, but also to increase our efforts to a level that has never previously existed.

To accomplish this comprehensive mission, we have retained the services of Opportunity Funding, LLC. They will help us refine our strategic plan and conduct a new five-year pledge initiative. The goal is to provide the resources that our Board of Directors determined is required to be successful over the next five years.

We are now ready to build on the success of the past five (5) years and excited to get to work on building the future of Rogers-Lowell and Northwest Arkansas.

Currently, we’re in the very early organizational stage for our pledge initiative and are forming very specific and short-term action committees.

If you have an interest in participating with any of these committees or just have suggestions you would like to offer, please feel free to contact Jeffery Compton, Senior Project Manager with Opportunity Funding, and our Capital Campaign Director, at Jeffery@RogersLowell.com or by phone at (479) 636-1240.

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The Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers Metropolitan Statistical Area Northwest Arkansas is projected to grow at 4.2 percent annually between 2013-20, making it one of the top metropolitan areas in the nation. The region's gross metropolitan product ranked No. 3 for the 2013-20 projection period.

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Best Cities for Job Growth New Geography in 2015 put Northwest Arkansas at No. 3 in its list of Best Cities for Job Growth for medium-sized cities. Rankings are based on recent growth trends, mid-term growth and long-term growth, momentum, and current year growth.

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Best-Performing Cities

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The Milken Institute, which published a new report in December 03 put the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers Metropolitan Statistical 2015, 40 Area's 04 economy at No. 24 among 200 large metropolitan areas. The region ranked No. 49 overall among those best-performing cities in 05 30 2014. The region was $ especially strong in job and wage growth.

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Best Places to Live

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The new list ranks the country's 100 largest metropolitan areas based on affordability, job prospects and quality of life. The Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers MSA placed 3rd on this list for 2016. This ranking was determined in part by of individuals across 150a public survey 200 of thousands 250 300 350 the U.S. to 400find out what makes a place desirable to live in.

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2016 Season Is Over for Arkansas’s Other Spectator Sport Jon Moran, Vice President of Government Affairs with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

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hen you think of sports in Arkansas, there’s high school football, Razorback football, and spring Razorback football. This is not to slight ASU fans; you’ve got a great team, but some traditions are hard to break in Arkansas. Arkansas’s other spectator sport is the Arkansas General Assembly, and when its members gather together, they can be just as entertaining, or just as frustrating as watching the Hogs try to hold on to a lead in the fourth quarter.

Governor Hutchinson called the legislature into special session on April 6, shortly before the regularly scheduled fiscal session was set to begin on April 13. Following that regular fiscal session, another special session was called to begin on May 19. This one was for legislators to primarily consider a highway funding bill, although the governor did place a few other items on his call to legislators. That’s a whole lot of legislating to do in a short amount of time for what’s usually considered to be an “off-year.” Just like Razorback football games, these legislative sessions generated their share of highlights as well as head-scratching for the business community.

April’s Legislative Special of the Month Is...

Arkansas Works is Governor Hutchinson’s policy for Medicaid expansion in Arkansas, and he presented it to legislators for their consideration in the special session that began on April 6. The measure is a tweaking and a continuation of the Private Option program developed by Governor Beebe and the members of the Republican leadership of the 89th General Assembly. Arkansas Works passed both chambers of the legislature,

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but not without its share of controversy that would be waiting for its appropriation in the upcoming fiscal session. Ten senators who opposed the measure vowed to fight the appropriation for the program when it came up in the fiscal session, and they made good on that promise.

It Was Dead, That Is until It Wasn’t...

As promised the week before, ten senators held their ground and refused to appropriate the funding for the Arkansas Works program when it came up for consideration in the fiscal session.

After two attempts at passage in the Senate, the Governor had to get creative to get his signature piece of legislation approved by the Senate.

Through some parliamentary maneuvering and very meticulously drafted amendments to the appropriation that helped gain the two additional Senate votes required to pass the appropriation, the measure was ultimately funded.

May’s Legislative Special of the Month Is...

Highway funding and maybe a couple of little old bills that “don’t do nothing” were on the plate for another special session in May. The passage of Arkansas Works was absolutely essential for Governor Hutchinson’s plan to steer needed revenue to the Highway Department, enabling the AHTD to provide a match to pull down additional federal funding for transportation projects.

The governor’s highway funding plan ran into some resistance in committee from a group of senators who were hoping for a more long-term highway funding solution. Once again, parliamentary maneuvering in the Senate enabled the governor’s plan to reach final passage.

About That Little Old Bill I Mentioned...

There was one other item placed on the governor’s call that drew the swift attention of the Arkansas business community. Claims made for payment by the Arkansas Workers Compensation Death and Total Disability Fund were fast-tracked for termination at the end of this year. This fund is the only one of its kind left in the country, and ending its existence has been advocated for by the State Chamber for several years. However, the Chamber has been trying to find a way to close out claims to the fund in a fiscally responsible manner that mitigates the cost to Arkansas businesses, both big and small. The original bill halted claims abruptly at the end of 2016. This could have caused a significant increase to the premium tax paid for by all employers. An amendment to the bill stops claims in July 2019, which allows the business community time to come up with a practical solution to closing claims into the fund. The amendment allowed the legislation to pass without much fanfare.

It’s All Over, at Least until Next Season...

The 91st General Assembly will convene in regular session next January. There will be many issues debated in that session; some of them will be important, some not so important.

Like Razorback football, each season brings about a new sense of hope. Here’s hoping that the next meeting or season of the General Assembly will be everything we expect it to be, or that it won’t be.

NWAEL May Social | Progressive Wine Pairing and Mixer

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n May 26, Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders gathered for a Progressive Wine Pairing and Mixer at Sassafras Winery in Springdale. Young professionals from across the area were able to taste four different wines, tour the winery, and socialize with their peers.

The Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL) is a program for dedicated professionals who seek to be actively engaged in the Northwest Arkansas community. The program is intended to develop candidates for public and private boards, commissions and leadership opportunities as well as to groom individuals to serve and lead our dynamic community.

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NWA BizCon 2016 | November 1

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he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and Northwest Arkansas Human Resource Association (NOARK) have announced a new partnership that will benefit large and small businesses in Northwest Arkansas this year. The Chamber, its longtime business conference partner, World Trade Center Arkansas, and NOARK have come together to form the largest and newest business event in the region - NWA BizCon.

show format. Professional development seminars will be delivered in three tracks featuring Management, Entrepreneurship and Human Resource hot topics. Presentations will be given by guest speakers who are not only recognized local subject matter experts (SMEs) but also thought leaders in the business community. The Exhibit Hall will feature a trade show throughout the day for attendees to visit and network with exhibitors. Other highlights include an Opening Session and Speaker, and Luncheon and Keynote Speaker. The day will end Showcase Your Business with the always fun “Gone in 60 Seconds” Elevator NWA BizCon merges the Chamber’s former Pitch Competition. event, NWA Business Expo, with NOARK’s SuperCon event to create a brand new, innovative Biz- Ways to Participate Con event benefitting local businesspeople and If you plan to attend the conference, exhibit entrepreneurs. The inaugural event will be held at in the trade show or become a sponsor, learn more the John Q. Hammons Convention Center in Rog- about conference tickets and exhibit booth pricers on Tuesday, November 1, 2016. This is an excel- ing at RogersLowell.com. Email membershipserlent opportunity to showcase your business to an vices@rogerslowell.com to explore sponsorships. estimated one thousand attendees expected during the day, increase your brand’s awareness and Trade Show Exhibit Space promote your products and services.

A limited number of premium exhibit booths will be available during the event offering both What’s New at NWA BizCon 2016 Chamber members and non-members opportuThis event (formerly the NWA Business Expo) nities to affordably showcase their products and has been totally revamped to provide businesses services to attendees. There are two exhibit space of all sizes one day access to new connections, options for trade show exhibitors (A & B) based ideas and opportunities in a conference and trade upon location within the Exhibit Hall. Trade show

T GRILLED FISH • PIRI PIRI CHICKEN

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he Small Business Council of the RogersLowell Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to provide special recognition to our small business community by presenting four quarterly recognition awards and one yearly recognition award. The four winners each year are automatic nominees for the 2016 Small Business of the Year presented at the annual Chamber banquet. There were several outstanding and well deserving nominees, which made for a very difficult decision this quarter.

The winner for the second quarter of 2016 is a true example of not only a successful small

booth pricing does not include Conference tickets.

MEMBER Class A Booth $550 | Class B Booth $425 NON-MEMBER Class A Booth $675 | Class B Booth $550 Booth pricing includes a 10’ X 8’ booth space with pipe and drape, a 6’ table with covering and two chairs, and one standard 110-volt electrical outlet. Please note that Conference tickets must be purchased separately. An added-value benefit for exhibitors is the extensive advertising and promotional campaign that the Chamber will be doing in advance with its local media partners to generate awareness of NWA BizCon 2016 and drive traffic to it during the day.

Conference Tickets

Your NWA BizCon conference ticket includes the Opening Session and Speaker, Professional Development Seminars, Luncheon and Keynote Speaker, Entrance to the Exhibit Hall Trade Show and G60 Elevator Pitch Competition. $129 Individual | $99 Military / Veteran $495 5-Pack* SAVE $150 $900 10-Pack* SAVE $390 * For attendees from the same company

business, but also one that truly gives back to the community. Veteran owned and operated, this business is growing fast and has built a great reputation in our area. They are very active in the community and donate food and gift certificates to a variety of organizations including: Open Avenues; Bentonville and Rogers public schools; Home for Dinner (specializing in meals for military personnel and their families); and, several churches. It is with great pleasure that the Small Business Council announces the 2016 Outstanding Small Business of the Quarter – Boneheads – for the second quarter.

K2J Connect Brings Educators and Industries Together to Talk Workforce

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he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its K2J Connect event on May 24, 2016 with the purpose of bringing together area educators and industries to talk about workforce needs and development. K2J (Kindergarten to Job) Connect, presented by Walmart and EastHarding Construction, took place at Nabholz Construction in Rogers.

Attendees of the event included school district superintendents, education coordinators, principals, and high school teachers.

The educators were given an over view of the job market and had the opportunity to hear from industry experts about the types of skills needed for current job openings in Northwest Arkansas.

K2J Connect is a program of the RogersLowell Area Chamber of Commerce. For questions on this or anything related to economic development, please contact Steve Cox at steve@rogerslowell.com.

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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!

Great American Blast

Friday, July 1 – Monday, July 4 Where: Arvest Ballpark What: Four nights of fireworks after each home game.

Each night the fireworks will go off to different music themes. Friday and Saturday watch the Naturals face off against the Midland Rockhounds. Sunday and Monday they will play against the Frisco Roughriders.

Time: Game times vary. Please check schedule on the website.

More info: nwanaturals.com

Prairie Creek Marina Fireworks Saturday, July 2 Where: Prairie Creek Marina What: Fireworks Display Time: Dusk More info: prairiecreekmarina.com

Bring a canned food item for donation to the local City of Rogers Fireworks Spectacular Oasis Food Pantry.

More info: http://bellavistapoa.com/events/event/ Monday, July 4 Where: The Walmart AMP hot-dam-blues-festival/ What: July 4th Fireworks Spectacular Featuring SONA with Music Director Paul Haas Fireworks at the Crosses When: Gates open at 6:00 p.m. | Music starts at 7:30 Sunday, July 3 Where: Cross Church Northwest Arkansas | Pinnacle p.m. | Fireworks Begin at 9:15 p.m.

How Much: General Admission Lawn Tickets are $3 | Hills Campus What: 9th Annual Fireworks at the Crosses at Pinnacle Seats Under Cover Range from $10-$35 Hills Campus. A patriotic celebration featuring live Note: Directly before the concert from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., you’re invited to enjoy FREE festivities for families music, outdoor baptisms, and fireworks. in the Unilever/Kimberly-Clark parking lot (located Time: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

More info: http://crosschurch.com/events/fireworks- west of the Walmart AMP). This family-friendly event is sponsored by the City of Rogers. at-the-crosses/241/ More Info: https://www.arkansasmusicpavilion.com/ Annual Ventris Trail’s End Resort events/july-4th-fireworks-spectacular/

Fireworks Display

Sunday, July 3 Where: Ventris Trail’s End Resort What: The show is intended to be seen by boat as it Sunday, July 3 is projected toward the lake for an incredible effect Where: Loch Lomond Dog Park caused by the reflection from the water. The location What: Fireworks sponsored by the City of Bella Vista. is just South of marker “8” on Beaver Lake. Just look for Time: Event starts at 5:00 p.m. | Fireworks at Dusk the banners!

Note: Free admission and parking. The event will Time: Dusk include live music, five food trucks, a beer garden More info: http://www.beaverlakeresorts.com/venand fireworks. Lawn chairs and blankets welcome. tris_trails_end_resort_004.htm

Bella Vista Hot Dam Blues Festival & Fireworks

An Evening at Orchards Park Bentonville’s 4th of July Fireworks Celebration

Monday, July 4 Where: Orchards Park What: Entertainment & Largest Fireworks Show in Northwest Arkansas Time: Music begins at 7:00 p.m. | Fireworks begin approximately at 9:30 p.m.

More info: bentonvillear.com

Tee Times | 8:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m.

Shadow Valley Country Club in Rogers Morning Flight: 12 teams participated Afternoon Flight: 16 teams participated Total Golfers: 112

a.m. flight

1st |Pinnacle Hills Promenade** 2nd | Cox Business 3rd | Wachter Electric Company

p.m. flight

Monday, May 16 | 2016

1st | New Hope Animal Hospital 2nd | Bekaert Corporation 3rd | Everett Buick GMC ** denotes Golf Tournament Champion Special Thanks to Our Sponsors |

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Raymond Burns, President/CEO of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce (Pictured Left) Presents Golf Tournament Champions Trophy to David Faulkner Representing the Overall Winning Team, Pinnacle Hills Promenade.

2016 Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair Helps Put People Back to Work

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he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2016 Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair, presented by Glad Manufacturing, on Wednesday, May 11, 2016 at the Frisco Station Mall in Rogers.

Largest and Longest Running Job Fairs in Arkansas

The Chamber’s Northwest Arkansas Job Fairs (Spring and Fall) are the largest and longest running Job Fairs in Arkansas and are free to job seekers. It’s a great opportunity for them to meet one-on-one with local human resources professionals and representatives from other local organizations that know what it takes to get hired!

Connecting Employers with Job Seekers

The Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair also helps companies search for the right employees and get a head start on hiring needs for the year.

A total of 50 companies exhibited to 300+ attendees for the day.

May B2B Speed Networking Breakfast a Success

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usiness-to-Business (B2B) quarterly events have become some of the Chamber’s most popular networking dates. This year’s B2B Networking program features four quarterly events - two lunches and two breakfasts. The year’s first B2B networking breakfast event was held on May 25 from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. at the Northwest Arkansas Board of Realtors Event Center.

For only $30 ($20 for members) participants marketing and chances to win great door prizes. got to do some “speed networking” by promoting their products and services in two minutes to Thank You to this Year’s Sponsors contacts at their table before being rotated to addi- Presenting Sponsor | Gold Sponsors | tional tables for more networking. Ticket prices included breakfast meal, speaker presentations (from Crain Automotive Team, KFSM and Cox Business), round-robin “speed networking”, company

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2,000+ EXPECTED FOR 50TH ANNUAL

DAISY NATIONAL BB GUN CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH IN ROGERS JULY 3-5

Main Photo | Children and Coaches participate in 2015’s 49th Annual Daisy National BB Gun Championship Match.

Inset Photo (above) | 2015’s Champion Teams

J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. Donates $5 Million to Arkansas Children’s Northwest

May | 2016 – J.B. Hunt is giving $5 million to the Arkansas Children’s Northwest construction project. The gift will help transform healthcare in the region by bringing expert pediatric care close to home for more than 200,000 children.

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July | 2016 – The 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, part of the fun is in 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, OH 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 8 to 15, have qualified to compete. Athletes shoot a muzzleloaded single-shot 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. Spectators are welcome to observe the match on July 4-5.

“For more than 50 years, J.B. Hunt has believed in the importance of reinvesting in communities,” said John Roberts, president and CEO of J.B. Hunt.

“The construction of a children’s hospital in this community is a historic and necessary next step for the advancement of pediatric healthcare in the region. J.B. Hunt understands the impact a thriving children’s hospital in Northwest Arkansas will have on the children of this region. We are proud to step forward as a champion for children.”

In August 2015, Arkansas Children’s Hospital announced plans to build a freestanding children’s hospital in Springdale, on land donated by Robin and Gary George, Cathy and David Evans, and their families. Current plans for Arkansas Children’s Northwest include a 233,613 square foot, state-of-the-art facility with 24 inpatient beds, 30 emergency department and urgent care exam rooms, 30 clinic exam rooms, five operating rooms, and diagnostic services. The 37-acre campus will also include walking trails, gardens, and a helipad and refueling station.

Walton Arts Center Awarded $1 Million Grant from Donald W. Reynolds Foundation

June | 2016 – The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation has awarded a $1 million grant to the Walton Arts Center to support, sustain and increase the number of quality artists and performances presented at Walton Arts Center. The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation support will aid Walton Arts Center with the ongoing renovations to add nearly 30,000 square feet and allow the facility to function as a vibrant two-theater complex.

The grant will also provide the opportunity to begin new programming initiatives, such as a new series called West Street Live presented by Neal Pendergraft. West Street Live will offer a five show multi-genre series for live music fans in the newly renovated Starr Theater. Patrons will experience a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of listening rooms and nightclubs creating an intimate experience with the music and the musicians.

Walton Arts Center Renovation Rendering

“This commitment to underwrite new programming in the renovated Starr Theater and to support the program endowment will serve as a catalyst for Walton Arts Center.” said Peter B. Lane, president and CEO of Walton Arts Center. “This transformational gift will allow us to create new and diverse musical offerings.”

Mother Nature Announces Her Monthly Readings at Hobbs State Park

Summer/Fall | 2016 – Mother Nature herself has become a frequent visitor to Hobbs State Park –Conservation Area. She will be visiting the park every second Saturday of the month this Summer and Fall (July - October) and reading nature stories to her little followers. Readings begin at 10:30 a.m. Story time will be followed by “hands-on” nature-craft activities. Children of all ages are welcome, however most stories target children 3-6 years of age.

• July 9 “Buggy About Bugs” • August 13 “Itsy Bitsy Spider” • September 10 “Let’s Be Nature Detectives” • October 8 “Three Cheers for Trees” Meet Mother Nature in the lobby of the Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area visitor center located on Hwy. 12 just east of the Hwy. 12/ War Eagle Rd. intersection. There is no cost. For more information call (479) 789-5000.

again in 2016 on all fixed routes. ORT is confident the community will take advantage of this program again this year.

All three malls, three aquatic centers, nine public libraries, four movie theatres, several parks and museums, the downtown areas of every town that participates in public transit, the Jones Center, and multiple trailheads along the Razorback Greenway all await passengers using the bus system.

The free fare service dates are from Tuesday, May 31, 2016, through Friday, September 2, 2016, and are open to anyone born in 1999 or later; essentially, age 17 or younger. Children under age 12 are required to have an older guardian accompanying them.

All fixed-route vehicles are equipped with bicycle racks, and now every bus is equipped with free Wi-Fi.

Northwest. The gift will be distributed over the next five years. “Thanks to Walmart’s vision two decades ago and annual support from the supplier community, Will Golf 4 Kids and Color of Hope Gala have been integral fundraisers for Arkansas Children’s Hospital for more than 20 years,” says Mike Sewell, Sr. VP and Walmart Team Leader for MPG and co-chair for Will Golf 4 Kids.

“It is my honor to announce this $5 million commitment for the construction of Arkansas Children’s Northwest. The project has been endorsed

by Walmart, Walmart Foundation and J.B. Hunt.

With this gift, we now turn to the engagement of the supplier community, as well.”

In May, Ark ansas Children’s Hospital announced an $8 million gift from Walmart and Walmart Foundation and a $5 million gift from J. B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. for the construction of Arkansas Children’s Northwest. Last August, ACH announced a gift of $7.5 million from the George and Evans families.

Will Golf 4 Kids and Color of Hope Gala Commit $5 Million for Arkansas Children’s Northwest

June | 2016 – Volunteer leaders for Will Golf 4 Kids and Color of Hope Gala benefitting Arkansas Children’s Hospital are committing $5 million to the construction of Arkansas Children’s

ORT Offers “Kids Ride Free” For Summer 2016

Summer | 2016 – In keeping with the nine-year tradition of the “Kids Ride Free” summer program, Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) has committed to providing this program once

RogersLowell.com | JULY2016

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Welcome NEW MEMBERS | May 2016 12 Stones Realty Group, LLC at Keller Williams Jeremy Cupp 3105 N.E. 11th St., Ste. 5, Bentonville (479) 340-4744 | 12StonesNWA.com Real Estate - Commercial and Residential

Brooks Investment Group, Inc.

Lee Brooks 321 N. 2nd St., Rogers (479) 872-8667 | leebrooksinvestors.com Financial & Financial Advisors

Merle Norman Cosmetics

Joanie Burton 100 N. Dixieland Rd., Ste. 5D, Rogers (479) 631-6375 | merlenorman.com Cosmetics

Aelous Real Estate & Property Management

Elite Home Health

Newk’s Eatery

American National Insurance Company

Fitness One Gym

Northwest Arkansas Internal Medicine

Julie Winn 206 S. 2nd St., Rogers (479) 631-8418 | aelouspropertymgt.com Property Management Jeff Huff 7058 W. Sunset Blvd., Ste. 8, Springdale (479) 717-2009 | myamericannational.com/ Insurance

Grant Adams 1048 S. 48th St., Ste. A, Springdale (479) 756-5002 | hcgroup.com Home Health Services Sara Cole 1607 Empire St., Lowell (479) 372-6060 | fitnessoneclubs.com Fitness

Kurt Puttkammer Homes

Bass Berry & Sims PLC

Kurt Puttkammer Rogers (479) 636-3292 | Find Us on Facebook Contractors - Building, General, Home

Janelle Waack 609 S.W. 8th St., #600, Bentonville (479) 286-1216 | bassberry.com Attorneys

Dr. Ruben Tejada 5212 Village Parkway, Suite 2, Rogers (479) 876-8460 Physicians & Surgeons

NWAVacationRentals.com

Woodland Research Northwest (Opening Soon)

Bolt NWA

Marshall Group of NWA

Red Rock Builders, LLC

Steve Marshall 4611 W. Pleasant Dr., Rogers (479) 595-6239 Consulting - Construction

Vicki Hogan 1955 W. Truckers Dr., Fayetteville (479) 973-6040 | springwoodsbehavioral.com Mental Health Services

Sande Ward

Raising Cane’s (Opening Soon)

Nancy Lewsader 2618 S.E. J. St., Ste. 8, Bentonville (479) 385-9665 | boltnwa.com Entertainment

Springwoods Behavioral Health

Kelly Thornell Rogers (479) 616-4535 | NWAVacationRentals.com Vacation Rentals

Lofts at Historic City Hall

Julie Winn 214 W. Elm St., Rogers (479) 631-8418 | aelouspropertymgt.com Apartments

Scott McGowen 100 E. Joyce Blvd., Fayetteville (479) 443-7262 | scottframeandart.com Framing & Matting/Fine Art Printing

Shine Solar Brett Lynch 5101 W. Pauline Whitaker Pkwy., Ste. 101, Rogers Caleb Gorden Cave Springs (479) 876-6395 | newks.com (479) 899-3954 | shinesolar.com Restaurants Energy Savings/Green Energy

Beef Jerky Outlet

Jonathan Fry 2203 Promenade Blvd., Ste. 8150, Rogers (479) 899-6031 | hogcountryjerky.com Retail Specialty Stores

Scott Frame and Art

Brandon Hines 4200 W. Walnut St., Rogers (479) 443-1774 | raisingcanes.com Restaurants

Rogers (479) 715-5098 Individuals Richard Lally 609 W. Dyke Rd., Rogers (479) 927-3000 | woodlandintlresearchgrp.com Clinics & Medical Groups

Farrell Anderson Rogers (479) 966-7611 Contractors - Building, General, Home

Chamber University Sunrise Seminar Series | The Power of LinkedIn

C

hamber University’s Sunrise Seminar About the Presenter Series is an early morning, professional Martha Londagin development seminar designed for works with small busitoday’s busy businessmen and women. ness clients on variBreakfast is provided by Whataburger. ous types of business issues such as financAbout the Seminar ing options and the LinkedIn is the business-oriented social netloan process, preparawork. Learn how to manage your professional tion of financial projecand business information on LinkedIn, find and tions, market research, be introduced to contacts, be found for business business planning, opportunities, post and distribute job listings for marketing, and finanemployees, and gain insights from discussions with cial management. She is the center’s business like-minded professionals in private groups at this consultant for all client small business traditional seminar geared toward LinkedIn beginners. Martha and social media marketing plans. Martha also Londagin, Walton College Arkansas Small Business coordinates media relations and marketing efforts and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC) on behalf of the Walton College ASBTDC and overbusiness consultant, will be the presenter. sees its small business training seminar program

12 Chamber Voice | JULY2016

and community resource development partnerships with area chambers of commerce and other business development associations of the eightcounty region of Northwest Arkansas.

**SPECIAL DATE**

Thursday, July 14, 2016 | 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Chamber University: Sunrise Seminar Series Location: Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Topic: The Power of LinkedIn Presenter: Martha Londagin with the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center Event Fee: $15 ($10 for Members) Registration Required at RogersLowell.com

May 2016 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Sponsor |

ALL CLEAN USA Bentonville

BE HEALTHY WITH AROGALIFE, LLC Springdale

BUFFINGTON HOMES – SILO FALLS SUBDIVISION 2705 S. Cobbler Place, Rogers

FITNESS ONE GYM 1607 Empire St., Lowell

GARNER BUILDING SUPPLY 125 E. Locust St., Rogers

360 AND BROOKS INSURANCE GROUP, INC 321 N. 2nd St., Rogers

THE LOFTS AT HISTORIC CITY HALL 214 W. Elm St., Rogers

NEWK’S EATERY 5101 W. Pauline Whitaker Pkwy., Ste. 101, Rogers

SAM’S FURNITURE 4326 Hidden Creek Ln., Springdale

SELAH DESIGN STUDIO 100 N. Dixieland Rd., #D11, Rogers

SHINE SOLAR Cave Springs

WALMART STORE #1 2110 W. Walnut St., Rogers

Wednesday, July 20 | 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 Presenting Sponsor |

Platinum 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.

It’s an excellent overview of Chamber networking events and other programs all designed to help grow your business and make the most of your membership. Please register as space is limited to the first 30 respondents.

RogersLowell.com | JULY2016

13

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | May 2016 30+ years

AT&T - 70 years Bruce-Rogers Company - 64 years Cox Communications - 55 years Glad Manufacturing Company - 45 years Nabholz Construction - 43 years Benchmark Group - 38 years Sonic Drive-In #1247 - 32 years

21-30 years

Beaver Lake Aviation Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Fayetteville Mechanical Contractors, Inc. New Hope Animal Hospital Open Avenues Dr. Robert R. Hull, MD PA Tallchamps, LLC Walton Arts Center Wittenberg, Delony & Davidson

11-20 years

Andy’s Frozen Custard Crossland Construction First Baptist Church of Rogers Frost, PLLC Generations Bank Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

Innisfree Health and Rehab Lance Johnson Building Company KLRC Radio McClelland Consulting Engineers, Inc. Monte Ne Historical Society Company Optimist Club of Rogers Paychex, Inc. Pea Ridge National Military Park Peace Lutheran Church SC Johnson A Family Company SCORE Chapter 0511 Southwestern Sales Company Steve Fineberg & Associates Inc. TEKsystems TownePlace Suites by Marriott

6-10 years

Abbott Nutrition Advantage Sales & Marketing Alternative Beemer Service LLC Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Arkansas Bailey & Thompson Tax & Accounting, P.A. Bryan University Career Development Partners Inc. Chick-fil-A of Tuscany Square Commercial Communications, Inc.

Country Inn and Suites Dynamic Storage Fleming Electric, Inc. JAFRA Skin Care Jenny Craig Jordan Essentials - Lissa Applewhite Legacy National Bank Metro Appliances & More N.O.S.S. Inc./In-N-Out Screening Services, Inc. NWA Restore It Ozark Guidance Pinnacle Car Services Pleasant Grove Self Storage Ruth’s Chris Steak House Smith Family Chiropractic & Acupuncture, Inc. Staples Team Direct Management

2-5 years

American National Insurance David Proffitt Agency Arkansas Senior Resource Directory The Baby’s Room BJ’s Liquor BurtonWright Caboodles Clark Contractos, LLC

Eagle Vision Investments Edafio Technology Partners The Egg & I Foster’s Pint & Plate Goodwill Industries of Arkansas Hank’s Fine Furniture Harness Roofing, Inc. - HRI Hull Dermatology & Aesthetics IDK? Café Kinty Jones Heating & Cooling Modern Mission Outdoor Laser Tag & Indoor Battlefield Pro-Mow of Northwest Arkansas Rausch Coleman Homes Simply Divine Catering, LLC Single Parent Scholarship Fund of NWA Souls Harbor of Rogers, Inc. Thrive Autism Solutions Whittle Truck Sales

1 year

Chambers Bank Keith, Miller, Butler, Schneider & Pawlik, PLLC One Source Innovation Rapha Center for Women’s Ministries, Inc. Tie 1 On NWA, Inc.

WOOOOOO PIGGY! WHAT A DEAL!

Advertise your business with NO out of pocket expenses!

Call Janet Cross 479-571-6408 or email sales@nwadealpiggy.com 14 Chamber Voice | JULY2016

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.

Hosted by: Presenting Sponsors:

Arvest Bank George Nunnally Chevrolet

Presenting Sponsor:

Cherokee Casino & Hotel

July 12, 2016 Hiebert Dental Care Hiebert Dental Care 125 Presidential Dr., Ste. A, Lowell

July 21, 2016

Sunrise Seminar Series Presenting Sponsor: First Western

Sunrise Seminar Series Series Sponsor: KNWA

Location:

**SPECIAL DATE** July 14, 2016

Sunrise Seminar Series Breakfast Sponsor:

Hosted by:

Location:

Erdos at Home

3335 Market St., Rogers

Speaker:

Topic:

Martha Londagin

Walton College Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center

The Power of LinkedIn

Location:

Address:

NWACC Shewmaker Center for Workforce Technology

1000 S.E. Eagle Way, Bentonville

Whataburger

Presenting Sponsor:

Crain Automotive Team

Gold Sponsors:

Cox Business KFSM TV-5 / KXNW TV-34

September 28, 2016 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Advertising with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Your Banner Ad Here 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.

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 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.

RogersLowell.com | JULY2016

15

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, 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.