Chamber Voice Newsletter | June 2018

JUNE2018 | Vol 13 Issue 6

Buddy Bass

Celebrates 27th Year Tournament Results

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ith a field of nearly 600 anglers in this year’s Bradford Marine & ATV Buddy Bass Tournament, it remains the largest non-circuit bass tournament on Beaver Lake. The 27th Annual Buddy Bass Tournament was held on Beaver Lake in Rogers on Saturday, May 5. The winning team, with a total weight of 13.75 pounds (five fish limit), was Schureman & Schureman (pictured).

The team took home a brand-new Tracker Pro 160 Bass Boat, Mercury 20 hp motor and trailer package thanks to Bradford Marine & ATV and Tracker Boats. The winning team also won two collector’s edition Daisy BB guns compliments of Daisy Outdoors Products. A total of 669 fish totaling 1,185.34 pounds were caught during the "catch and release" Buddy Bass tournament.

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Events and Meetings

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Buddy Bass Celebrates 27th Year Tournament Results Continued

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Focus on Education – 42nd Annual Academic Awards and Teacher of the Year Awards for 2017-2018

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Visit Rogers – Welcome to Rogers

Hustle in Heels Completes Second Quarter Program

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K2J Connect Brings Together Educators and Industry 2018 Rogers Cycling Festival – July 27-29, 2018 Focus on Community – 2018 Rogers Bond Issue Introduced by City of Rogers and Other Stories from Across the Community Focus on Small Business – EcoVet Furniture Earns National & Local Recognition Creating Opportunities for High Impact Leadership; Congratulations Leadership Benton County Class 15 Graduates

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Welcome New Members | April 2018; Pinnacle Hills Promenade Presents the RLACC Spring Golf Tournament

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Ribbon Cuttings | April 2018

Chamber Membership Renewals | April 2018

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Chamber Networking & Educational Events

RogersLowell.com | JUNE2018

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quick reference calendar | JUNE Business Building Events

Upcoming Meetings

JUN

6.1 | Chamber Picnic 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Ward Nail Park in Lowell

JUN

6.7 | Small Business Council Meeting 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

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Rogers-Lowell Area

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6.7 | Hustle in Heels Committee Meeting 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Chamber of Commerce

View complete calendar at RogersLowell.com

JUN

317 West Walnut Street

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6.11 | Pinnacle Hills Promenade Presents the Spring Golf Tournament 8:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. Tee Times | Shadow Valley Country Club

Rogers, Arkansas 72756

JUN

6.12 | Coffee Connection 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. | Whataburger

JUN

6.12 | Education Committee Meeting 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

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6.13 | Rogers Advertising & Promotion Meeting 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

P: (479) 636-1240 F: (479) 636-5485

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492950) is published monthly in January, February,

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6.15 | Government Affairs/Large Industry Council Meeting 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

March, May, June, July, August, September,

JUN

6.21 | Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | Fairfield Inn

Paid for through Periodical “Chamber Voice” (USPS

October November and December; (semi-monthly

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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 Senior Vice President of Marketing Communications brad@rogerslowell.com

Maddie Ward Special Events Coordinator maddie@rogerslowell.com

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

J.R. Shaw Executive Director/Executive Vice President | Visit Rogers jr@rogerslowell.com

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

Ross Phillips Director of Community Development ross@rogerslowell.com

Luke Wiggins Meetings & Conventions Sales Manager | Visit Rogers luke@rogerslowell.com

Katie Wright Chief Operations Officer katie@rogerslowell.com

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

Nick Smith Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com

Justin Freeman Marketing Communications Specialist justin@rogerslowell.com

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

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

Jacque Eakins Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com

Ashley Matsumura Information Specialist ashley@rogerslowell.com

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

Heather Friday Finance Manager heather@rogerslowell.com

Marni Rogers Member Relations Manager marni@rogerslowell.com

Amanda Mills Information Specialist amanda@rogerslowell.com

B OA RD O F D IRECTO RS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman of the Board Eric Pianalto, Mercy NWA

Chairman-Elect Greg Fogle, Nabholz Construction Treasurer Angie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker's Furniture & Appliance Past Chairman David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade President/CEO Raymond Burns RIDC President Jerry Vest, Regions Bank

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2018 DIRECTORS

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

2019 DIRECTORS

Jill Bright, Grand Savings Bank Payne Brewer, Arvest Bank Corry Hull, OneDigital Health and Benefits Erin Kiefer, Assembled Products Corporation Harrison Kiser, Northwest Health Chris Sultemeier, Walmart (retired)

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS

Tom Allen, Sage Partners Dr. Marlin Berry, Rogers Public Schools Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Luxury Real Estate Redefined Jerry Carmichael, 3C Retail Solutions Russ Daniel, McLarty Daniel Rich Davis, Black Hills Energy Jesica Duert, Walmart Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp.

Sandy Edwards, Crystal Bridges Museum David Foster, APAC-Central Inc. Dan Hendrix, World Trade Center Arkansas Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers

Tom Hopper, Tallchamps, LLC Dr. Evelynn Jorgenson, NWACC Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center David Lang Eldon Long, Mayor, City of Lowell Aaron Matthews, First Baptist Church of Lowell Judge Barry Moehring, Benton County Jerra Nalley, Runway Curt Stamp, Cox Business Dick Trammel, Arkansas Highway Commission Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods Paul Wood

2020 DIRECTORS

Leah Acoach, Ozark Mountain Poultry, Inc. Danny Beck, Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield Joe Donaldson, Sam’s Furniture Brad Hicks, J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. Mike Power, First Security Bank David Vaden, Ernst & Young LLP

DIVISION CHAIRS

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

AUDIT COMMITTEE

Jill Bright, Jon Harrell, & David Vaden

...Continued from Page 1 Division Results & Tourney Big Bass In the team division, Pure Fishing won the Division III, two boat entry, with a total team weight of 22.47 pounds. Bella Vista Marine took home the Division II, four boat entry, trophy with a total team weight 37.66 pounds. Hook Line & Sinker took home the trophy for the Division I, eight boat entry, with a total team weight of 80.28 pounds. The big bass of the tournament weighed in at 4.23 pounds and was caught by the team of Roughton & Roughton. The Big Bass winners took home $500 and a collector's edition Daisy BB Gun.

Youth Fishing Event The 8th Annual Youth Fishing Event was held in conjunction with the annual Buddy Bass Tournament. Children ages 4 - 15 and their families took part in the event.

Participants took home a free t-shirt, fishing rod and reel, and other assorted prizes thanks to Bass Pro Shops.

Importance of Beaver Lake to the Economy The Chamber’s Annual Buddy Bass fishing tournament raises awareness of the importance

At A Glance |

27TH ANNUAL BRADFORD MARINE & ATV BUDDY BASS TOURNAMENT TOP 5

of Beaver Lake to the Northwest Arkansas economy. Proceeds help fund economic development efforts of the Chamber. Over the past 27 years, these efforts have resulted in more than 17,000 new jobs and nearly $1.5 billion in capital investments. The tournament alone brings an estimated $120,000 to the Rogers-Lowell Area economy.

For a complete listing of teams and winners for the day, please call the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce at (479) 636-1240 and request reports (available in pdf format) to be emailed or mailed.

S PE C IAL TH AN K S TO OUR S P ON S OR S

The top five were close finishers in the 27th annual tournament adding an extra degree of excitement this year. All weights listed below are total pounds for five bass.

1. Schureman & Schureman | 13.75 LBS 2. Cope & McCellan | 13.71 LBS 3. Ash & Beaver | 12.52 LBS 4. Harriman & Harriman | 12.52 LBS 5. Lea & Hines | 12.40 LBS

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42nd Annual Academic Awards Honors 1,091 High School Students

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or 42 years, the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee has honored outstanding Rogers high school students during its annual Academic Awards Ceremonies. The program is intended to improve the level of preparation for high school graduates entering college or the workforce.

This year, 338 Rogers Heritage High School students, 554 Rogers High School students, and 199 Rogers New Technology High School students were presented with the prestigious Academic Awards for maintaining a 3.5 GPA or higher for one, two, or three years. With an objective of providing excellent preparation for students in the community, the Chamber is working to increase the number of students achieving this recognition every year. This year, the Chamber presented 1,091 students with this Award, the most that have ever been presented.

The Academic Awards were presented by Chick-Fil-A; Gold Sponsors were KFSM TV 5/KXNW TV 34, Arkansas 529 Scholarship and Lifetouch National School Studios Inc.; and Bronze Sponsors were the Buck Foundation, Kumon Math and Reading Center of Lowell, iHeart Media, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Thomas Fence, and The Roark Group.

Presented by |

A photo from the ceremony at Rogers High School

Education Committee Honors 2017-2018 Educators of the Year The Chamber’s Education Committee has been honoring Rogers Public School Educators for their excellence in education for over 30 years. Educators are nominated from each school and three standout teachers are selected Educator of the year.

The three teachers selected for 20172018 Educator of the Year: Kim Hamilton of Bellview Elementary, Margaret Elenbarger of Heritage High, Christhian Saavedra of Kirksey Middle School.

Along with these three outstanding teachers (below) the Education Committee selected one more teacher to receive a very special award, the Virginia Mocivnik Award, created in

Virginia’s honor to recognize an educator that demonstrates a dedication to the community above and beyond their work in the classroom.

Virginia believed that education is one of the most important tools to effect positive societal change. As a business leader, she worked on many projects throughout the school system and community but most namely, she lobbied the school superintendent and parks and recreation director to start a girls’ athletic program. This year our Committee presented Kristin Day with the Virginia Mocivnik Award for her dedication to the classroom and the community.

The 2017-18 Educator of the Year Awards were presented by Arkansas State Teachers Association; and Gold Sponsors Sam’s Club,

Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Cox Business and Raising Cane’s.

Presented By |

Kristin Day - Virginia Mocivnik Award Winner Eastside Elementary School

Photos provided by Jason Ivester with Rogers Public Schools

Kim Hamilton Bellview Elementary School

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Margaret Elenbarger Rogers Heritage High School

Christhian Saavedra Kirksey Middle School

Welcome to Rogers Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G | June 18-24, 2018

The #NWACHAMPIONSHIP Week returns to Pinnacle Country Club in Rogers with three rounds of tournament competition taking place Friday through Sunday and an exciting line-up of LPGA week events. Tickets and information for the golf tournament and week’s events are available at nwachampionship.com.

5K @ the LPGA Benefiting Mercy | June 23, 2018

The race will be held Saturday, June 23, starting and finishing at the Walmart AMP in Rogers. Early registration is $20, and includes a performance t-shirt, daily tournament ticket, race medal, breakfast after the race and more!

Tickets and information for the 5K are available at nwachampionship.com.

Walmart Annual Shareholders | May 30 – June 1, 2018

People from all over the world visit Rogers and Northwest Arkansas during Walmart's Annual Shareholders meeting and activities, May 30 and June 1. Starting this year, a brief formal business meeting focused on shareholder voting on proxy proposals will take place on Wednesday, May 30 at the John Q Hammonds Convention Center in Rogers, followed by the company’s traditional event for associates and shareholders on Friday, June 1 at the Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville.

Walmart now operates 11,600 stores under

59 banners in 28 countries and e-commerce websites in 11 countries and employs 2.3 million associates worldwide. The event is star-studded and festive, and a boon each year to the Northwest Arkansas economy attracting a large international crowd to the area's restaurants, hotels and attractions.

59th Annual Poultry Festival | June 15-16, 2018

Arkansas Public Theatre (APT) presents An Act of God | June 8-17, 2018 Located in Downtown Rogers, the APT at the Victory Theater’s SEASON 32 presents An Act of God, another fresh from Broadway hit that starred Jim Parsons (TV’s Sheldon on The Big Bang Theory) as God. After many millennia, and in just 90 minutes, God answers some of the deepest questions that have plagued mankind since Creation.

The Poultry Federation of Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma will host its 59th Annual Poultry Festival June 15-16, 2018 at the John Q. Hammons Convention Center in Rogers. The weekend event is a celebration of the tri-states’ poultry and egg industry. The festival draws members and friends of the industry from across the country. In 2017, over 5,200 tickets were sold to the festival, impacting the Rogers economy by $4.19 million. Visit ThePoultryFederation.com for more information.

Walmart AMP | Cox Concert Series - June The Walmart AMP is Northwest Arkansas' premiere outdoor concert venue located in Rogers.

Upcoming shows in June will attract visitors from all over the nation. Concert tickets can be found on the Walmart AMP’s website at arkansasmusicpavilion.com.

• JIM GAFFIGAN – The Fixer Upper Tour | June 2 • RAY LAMONTAGNE WITH NEKO CHASE – Part Of The Light Tour | June 12

• CHRIS STAPLETON – All American Road Show | June 22

• THE ADVENTURES OF KESHA AND MACKLEMORE | June 25

• CHICAGO AND REO SPEEDWAGON | June 26

The Beyond: Georgia O’Keeffe & Contemporary Art Opened May through September 3, 2018. For Tickets, Visit CrystalBridges.org.

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Hustle in Heels Completes Second Quarter Program

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ustle in Heels: Ladies Lead NWA held its second quarter program on May 10. The event was attended by more than 100 business women from across Northwest Arkansas. Dr. Meredith Jones, Director of Harding University NWA, spoke on “Personalities in Your Professional Network”.

Attendees enjoyed networking during lunch and after the keynote presentation.

Designed for professional business women, Hustle in Heels: Ladies Lead NWA allows for business and personal networking and offers interactive educational programs each quarter. This program is open to women from all aspects of business and uses the hashtag #heelsnotrequired as a reminder of that fact.

Volunteer Opportunity A volunteer committee made up of Chamber members from a wide variety of businesses and backgrounds meets monthly to plan programs and create marketing plans for upcoming events.

If you are interested in speaking at a 2019 Hustle in Heels event, please contact the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce.

Save the Dates | August 9 and October 4 Upcoming Hustle in Heels events include the August 9, 2018 luncheon: “Multi-Generational Mentoring: Why We Need It. How to Achieve It”, and the Women In Public Service Forum on October 4, 2018. Registration is open for both events at www.rogerslowell.com.

Follow Hustle in Heels on Facebook and Instagram for more information on upcoming events. If you have any questions about the Hustle in Heels: Ladies Lead NWA program, contact Steve Cox at steve@rogerslowell.com.

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K2J Connect Brings Together Educators and Industry

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he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its K2J (Kindergarten to Job) Connect event on May 9 with the purpose of bringing together area educators and industries to talk about workforce needs and development. The event took place at the Chamber’s offices and was attended by educators and industries from throughout Rogers.

Identifying Workforce Problems and Solutions Attendees of the event included college deans, district coordinators, principals, teachers, HR managers, and hiring managers. Educators were given the chance to ask questions to the industry representatives about workforce problems that they are facing and how the local education system could help address those needs. Industry representatives talked about needs and skill gaps in

The K2J Connect event brought together several educators and industry professionals at the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

our community and provided suggestions on how the school system could help showcase skilled labor as a career option for students.

Discussions also focused on better connecting industry and education by allowing industries into classrooms more frequently to present career opportunities to students. Ideas such as mock interviews for students with feedback from hiring managers and an “Industry

The new podcast program launched in May and is a collaborative effort among the Chamber’s Government Affairs, Community Development, and Economic Development divisions.

Signing Day” for students choosing to go directly into a career upon graduation were also presented and discussed.

Feedback from the attendees was very positive and a second K2J Connect event is scheduled for this fall (to be announced). For questions on this workforce development program or anything related to economic development, contact Steve Cox at steve@rogerslowell.com.

Podcast Programming is set to include: Regional and Statewide Interest Current Events Legislative Events Interviews with Local and State Elected Officials Interviews with Community Leaders, Newsmakers, and Economic Developers

You can find the Chamber Voice of Business Podcast online and

subscribe. Just search “Chamber Voice of Business” on any of these platforms and start listening to one of Northwest Arkansas’s premier business podcasts today!

RogersLowell.com | JUNE2018

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2018

ROGERS CYCLING FESTIVAL July 27-2 9, 2018

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he Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders announced that the 2018 Rogers Cycling Festival will be held on July 27-29. The festival consists of several road cycling and mountain biking events as well as a gravel ride. All events will be held in the Downtown Rogers area. The festival will bring cycling enthusiasts from across the central United States and has something for everyone, from high skilled and competitive races to family friendly rides. This year the event will host the 2018 Arkansas State Road Championship.

The schedule of events offers a wide range for participants, and with the amenities of Downtown Rogers and Lake Atalanta, there will be many activities for friends and families of the racers. All proceeds from the festival benefit several nonprofit cycling causes in Northwest Arkansas. To register and find out more about the festival visit rogerscyclingfestival.com.

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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FRIDAY, JULY 27 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Cycling Advocacy Alley 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Wheel Sucker Team Time Trial 7:30 p.m. | After Party & Time Trial Awards at GPP Cycling 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.| Frisco 5 Poker Ride 8:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Poker Prizes / Bike Decorating at Registration Area 8:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. | Family Glow Ride SATURDAY, JULY 28 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. | Race for the Spike 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Cycling Advocacy Alley 9:00 a.m. | Razorback Greenway Excursion 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Rats Kids MTB Race 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Walnut Valley Road Race 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. | The Gambler MTB Endurance Race 9:00 p.m. | After Party & Gambler Awards at Ozark Beer Co. SUNDAY, JULY 29 8:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Walnut Valley Road Race 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | The Whitney Gravel Ride Visit RogersCyclingFestival.com for a full breakdown of events.

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2018 Rogers Bond Issue Introduced by City of Rogers May 2018 | The Committee for the Future of Rogers in conjunction with The City of Rogers and the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a special meeting introducing the proposed 2018 Rogers Bond Issue at Embassy Suites Northwest Arkansas on Friday, May 11. Included in the proposed plan are a fire station, a 70-acre park on Rogers' west side, east-west roads with interstate overpasses and other improvements under a proposed $299.5 million bond issue.

The Chamber's Board of Directors attended the meeting, convened and voted to endorse it. "This is needs, not wants," Chamber President and CEO Raymond Burns (pictured) said, urging attendees and others to attend the May 22 council meeting and voice their support.

At press time, the City Council was considering a special election on the issue under Mayor Hines' plan during its May meeting, so the election could happen August 14. Hines said he wants the election as soon as possible, rather than waiting for the general election in November, to avoid higher interest rates on debt.

Chamber President/CEO Raymond Burns Kicks Off Special Meeting on Proposed 2018 Rogers Bond Issue at Embassy Suites Northwest Arkansas

Crowd Welcomes Completion of $100 Million Section of U.S. 412 Bypass April 2018 | Hundreds gathered, including state and local dignitaries, to celebrate the completion of the largest single road construction contract in the state on April 18.

In December 2014, the Arkansas Highway Commission approved a $100.6 million project to build a 4.2-mile segment of the U.S. 412

bypass, between Arkansas Highway 112 and Interstate 49. The four-lane divided freeway, which includes 14 bridges and two interchanges, opened to traffic April 30. The freeway will be Arkansas Highway 612, until other segments of the roadway are completed. When completed, the bypass will run north of Tontitown and Springdale, from Highway 412 in west Tontitown to Highway 412 east of Springdale.

Pig Trail Harley-Davidson Bike Night Coming to Downtown Rogers Summer 2018 | Pig Trail Harley-Davidson is bringing its bike night to the bricks this summer and fall. This new motorcycle night in Downtown Rogers will be held on final Thursdays in select months.

The first event was held in May and will be repeated in June, July, August, and October. Note: It will not take place in September due to Bikes, Blues & BBQ in Fayetteville and Bikes on the Bricks in Downtown Rogers. Designated motorcycle parking will be in the Arvest parking lot at N. 2nd St. and W. Chestnut St. Small Businesses Working Together Downtown Rogers businesses will support and promote this event by offering food and drink specials, later shopping hours and other special activities.

Each month a local downtown bar or restaurant will serve as the sponsoring venue and invite Pig Trail Harley-Davidson staff to set up a headquarters at their location. There will be live music, a ride simulator and prizes including Harley-Davidson gear and new rider classes.

This new event’s promotion is an excellent example of small businesses working together to create traffic for dining and shopping, and to help drive economic prosperity to the invigorated downtown area. It is presented by Pig Trail HarleyDavidson in collaboration with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Visit Rogers, Go Downtown Rogers and Main Street Rogers.

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EcoVet Furniture Earns

National & Local Recognition E

coVet Furniture was one of just 15 businesses nationwide featured in Parade Magazine’s Earth Day issue in April. This successful small business is a veteran transition company in Rogers. The company designs and builds handcrafted furniture using reclaimed wood. It also employs primarily veterans who have previously been deployed overseas and are currently enrolled full-time in a higher education program, giving them a flexible schedule and an ability to earn a living wage.

Making a Difference for the Environment One example of the creative reuse and recycling at EcoVet is their range of sustainable furniture products made with the reclaimed maple and oak floors of scrap semi-trailers. EcoVet’s wood needs no artificial treatment. “Around 90 percent of semi-trailers usually end up being shredded and go to a landfill,” CEO Mike Hagood said.

“By doing what we do, we can repurpose them and give them a second life which is great for the environment.”

“It would be easy for us to decide to move somewhere where the unemployment isn’t so low, but we love living in Northwest Arkansas and being able to help our veterans locally. We have had veterans traveling through the area from across the United States to tour our facility, so we are glad we can help Rogers get its name out there. We really believe the area is turning into a great destination for visitors.”

- Mike Hagood, CEO EcoVet

2017 Small Business of the Year Award EcoVet is still in its infancy, but has already received numerous awards and accolades, including the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Small Business of the Year Award. The business is growing at a tremendous rate, and will soon launch an ecommerce website, allowing customers to purchase products online. Though the company has received some national acclaim, Hagood says giving back to the community is something that is very important to him.

Ask anyone at EcoVet Furniture and they will tell you that no other reclaimed wood product

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tells such an interesting story. The furniture is crafted with the precision and character that is representative of those who make it. “You can’t go to any other furniture store and buy what we build,” Hagood said. “About 20 percent of our business now is wood on walls, we’re starting to sell a lot of lumber. You will see a lot of new stuff in the next few months, so we encourage anyone who needs custom furniture to keep an eye on us.”

Find out more about EcoVet Furniture in person at 807 W. Hudson Rd., go to EcoVetFurniture. com or call (479) 259-1387.

Creating Opportunities for High Impact Leadership

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orthwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL) exists to connect and engage Northwest Arkansas young professionals through personal and professional development experiences. Membership is open to anyone in Northwest Arkansas that has a desire to get involved in the community, expand leadership skills and engage in the program of work.

NWAEL was established with five core initiatives that provide members opportunities to get involved in projects improving the community and making the region a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

Community Enrichment Provides avenues for dialogue and education about community issues as well as opportunities to become engaged in projects that will enrich the region. NWAEL hosts Creating Opportunities for High Impact Leadership monthly networking events.

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Leadership Development Aligns closely with one of the top overall priorities of the organization: to infuse new talent with existing leadership. The premise is to actively seek ways and means to give “ready, willing and able� future leaders the training and platforms required to transition them into long-term, impactful positions for our community.

Greenway and Trails Links parks, trails and people: to provide, protect, develop and maintain parks, greenways and trails throughout the community; and to promote public awareness of the benefits of green space.

Political and Government Affairs Offers non-partisan programs to assess current political issues and opportunities: to educate on political and government processes; and to engage and encourage participation in local, state and federal government.

Sustainability Focuses on increasing sustainability in Northwest Arkansas and diverting recyclable material out of the landfill.

For more information about these intiiatives and the Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders program contact Ross Phillips at ross@rogerslowell.com.

Congratulations Leadership Benton County Class 15 Graduates

eadership Benton County (LBC) promotes and develops dynamic community leaders for Benton County. LBC unites a diverse group of people, exposes and educates them while promoting a regional view of the area. It provides opportunities to learn, enhance and apply leadership skills. LBC is also a forum to offer solutions and alternatives to community needs and concerns.

The LBC program consists of 12 sessions held monthly from August to May. Sessions include an evening Orientation, a two-day Opening Retreat, a two-day trip to Little Rock, eight day-long sessions, and a Graduation Celebration.

On Tuesday, May 8 LBC Class 15 graduated from the program. This is the first graduating class from the newly reimagined Leadership Benton County. Congratulations from the RogersLowell Area Chamber of Commerce to all the LBC Class 15 graduates.

If you have any questions about LBC, please contact Ross Phillips at 479-619-3197 or ross@rogerslowell.com.

LBC Class 15 visited with Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson during their session at the capitol

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Welcome NEW MEMBERS | April 2018 AAA TRAVEL Sarah Rader 1501 S.E. WALTON BLVD., STE. 111 BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 254-9223 TRAVEL SERVICES

FACILICOM INCORPORATED Kyle Jones P.O. BOX 578 LOWELL, AR 72745 (479) 316-2200 | FACILICOMINC.COM TELEPHONE COMMUNICATION SERVICES

MANA FAMILY MEDICINE Kami Holley 3730 S. PINNACLE HILLS PKWY., STE. 2 ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 464-5599 | MANA.MD PHYSICIANS & SURGEONS

PACHIKA MEDITATIONS STUDIO Tara West 1882 N. STARR DRIVE FAYETTEVILLE, AR 72701 (479) 856-6545 | PACHIKA.COM ORGANIZATIONS

ASK LEADERSHIP TEAM LLC Sarinette Caraballo BENTONVILLE, AR (939) 308-0459 | ASKLTEAM.COM CONSULTING & TRAINING

FUZZY'S TACO SHOP JD Maestri 32 W. JOYCE BLVD. FAYETTEVILLE, AR 72703 (479) 442-8226 | FUZZYSTACOSHOP.COM RESTAURANTS - MEXICAN

MATRIX TENNIS CENTER (OPENING SOON) Shannon Hudson MILLS LANE LOWELL, AR 72745 (757) 531-5396 TENNIS CLASSES

RELOCATION SERVICES OF ARKANSAS Carol Gresham ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 202-4568 REAL ESTATE - COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

HARPWATER COMPANY Phillip Harp LOWELL, AR 72745 (479) 263-1390 | HARPWATER.COM/ WATER FILTRATION & PURIFICATION

MISS BIRDIE BOUTIQUE Robyn McCall 105 W. ELM ST. #207 ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 422-2948 | MISSBIRDIEBOUTIQUE.STORE BOUTIQUES & SPECIALTY SHOPS

BATTERY OUTFITTERS Mike Webster 2346 HUDSON RD. ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 631-2346 | BATTERYOUTFITTERS.COM BATTERIES - RETAIL BOOST MOBILE ROGERS CELLULAR Carlos Hernandez 2882 W. WALNUT ST. ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 200-3971 | BOOSTMOBILE.COM CELL PHONE SERVICES & SUPPLIES

HIGHER ROCK CONSTRUCTION LLC Chris Bradley ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 202-2552 CONTRACTORS - BUILDING, GENERAL, HOME

COMFORT SYSTEMS USA (ARKANSAS), INC. David Jester 116 COMMERCIAL DR. LOWELL, AR 72745 (479) 770-8992 | COMFORTAR.COM/ HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT, SYSTEMS, REPAIR

LABORMAX STAFFING Lisa Long 1601 B W. WALNUT ST. ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 899-6544 | LABORMAX.NET 2111 S. OLD MISSOURI RD., STE. G SPRINGDALE, AR 72762 (479) 435-8822 | LABORMAXSTAFFING.COM EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES/SERVICES

ORCHARD PROPERTIES SULLIVAN SQUARE Mitzi Bingaman 1102 S.W. SULLIVAN WAY BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 TOWNE PARK AT HAR-BER 257 ARBORSIDE ROAD SPRINGDALE, AR 72762 WOODLAND PARK 4000 S. DIXIELAND RD. ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 502-0269 | ORCHARDPROPERTIESAR.COM APARTMENTS

SUNBELT RENTALS Dallas Wade 2100 S. 8TH ST. ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 986-8724 | SUNBELTRENTALS.COM EQUIPMENT SALES/EQUIPMENT RENTALS THORNCROWN CHAPEL Doug Reed 12968 HWY 62 WEST EUREKA SPRINGS, AR 72632 (479) 253-7401 | THORNCROWN.COM CHAPELS TORTILLERIA EL PALOMINO / EL RINCONCITO RESTAURANT Pablo Ortega 1803 S. 8TH ST., STE. 4 ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 372-4054 | FIND US ON FACEBOOK RESTAURANTS - MEXICAN

EVOLVING FOR SUCCESS Kristie Wilson GARFIELD, AR 72732 (479) 633-3012 | EVOLVINGFORSUCCESS.COM CONSULTING - BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT

Pinnacle Hills Promenade Presents the RLACC Spring Golf Tournament Monday, June 11, 2018 Pinnacle Hills Promenade Presents the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Spring Golf Tournament • Tee Times | 8:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m.

• Shadow Valley Country Club • 7001 Shadow Valley Rd. | Rogers • Registration Required Treat Yourself, Reward Employees & Say Thank You to Clients Join us Monday, June 11, for the 2018 Spring Golf Tournament Presented by Pinnacle Hills Promenade, a four-person scramble with shotgun start times of 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. at beautiful Shadow Valley Country Club in Rogers. The

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C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 01 8

tournament is a fun day for Chamber members to come together, compete for prizes and network with other players. It’s a great way to treat yourself, reward company employees and say thank you to special clients on the golf course.

A Fun Day | Contests & Prizes, Snacks, Beverages & Delicious Food Players can test their skills in the hole-in-one, longest drive, closest-to-the-pin and putting contests. Prizes will be awarded for top finishing teams and individual contest winners. Each golfer will receive two complimentary adult beverage tickets, snacks, and non alcoholic beverages.

Breakfast will be served for the morning golfers.

Lunch will be provided to every golfer.

Sponsorships Available Now Not a golfer? Sponsoring the 2018 Spring Golf Tournament is an effective, low-cost way to promote your company and raise your company’s profile in the community. Sponsorship packages include the opportunity to reach all golf participants and be recognized by the Chamber.

PRESENTING SPONSOR |

Apri 2018 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 2018 Sponsor

Barton Consulting LLC Rogers

Beaver Lake Outdoor Center 14434 E. Hwy. 12, Rogers

Bodylove Naturals 123 W. Elm St., Rogers

Boost Mobile Rogers Cellular 2882 W. Walnut St., Rogers

Chick-fil-A at Pinnacle Hills 4893 W. Pauline Whitaker Pkwy., Rogers

Five Star Painting Bella Vista

Simplemachine 105 NW 2nd St., Ste. 207, Bentonville

Stone Mill CafĂŠ 2903 S. Walton Blvd., Bentonville

Sunbelt Rentals 2100 S. 8th St., Rogers

War Eagle Cavern Moonshine Mystery Shack 21494 Cavern Dr., Rogers

RogersLowell.com | JUNE2018

13

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | April 2018 30+ years Cox Communications - 57 years Crafton Tull - 55 years Preformed Line Products Company - 49 years Nabholz Construction - 45 years The RoArk Group - 43 years Best Sports - 39 years Staffmark - 39 years Simmons Bank - 38 years Aero Med Express, Inc. - 37 years Dolle Electric - 36 years Assembled Products Corporation - 32 years Beaver Lake Aviation - 31 years 21-30 years First Baptist Church of Rogers Immanuel Baptist Church Kinco Constructors, LLC Pea Ridge National Military Park Dr. Robert R. Hull, MD PA Southwestern Sales Company Wittenberg, Delony & Davidson 11-20 years Abbott Nutrition Aldi, Inc. Alert Alarms Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Arkansas Arrowhead Boat Sales BancorpSouth Ins. Services, Inc. Crye-Leike Realtors/Main Office DesignWorks

Edwards Optical, P.A. The Friendly Bookstore Harding University Northwest Arkansas Harps Food Store, Inc. Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Hook Line & Sinker Lance Johnson Building Company Kendrick Fincher Hydration for Life KLRC Radio Kwik Kar Service Center Legacy National Bank McGhee Insurance NWA Northwest Arkansas Economic Development District Rainbow Cycle and Marine, Inc. Ruth's Chris Steak House Smith Family Clinic Staples Vacation Rentals, Inc. Wachter Inc. 6-10 years Acme Brick Alternative Beemer Service LLC ArkanPaws Pet Sitting Clifton Eoff Photography Core Architects Corporate Business Systems of NW Arkansas D & D Construction Inc. Dynamic Storge Ernst & Young LLP Girl Scouts - Diamonds AOT Hank's Fine Furniture

You wouldn’t build your house on a cracked foundation, right?

Highlands Oncology Group, P.A. Houlihan's Kelly Services La Finca Market Lowell Chiropractic & Health PRO Clean Smokin' Joes Ribhouse, Inc. SoNA/Symphony of Northwest Arkansas Team Direct Management TreeHouse Sales & Solutions, Inc. Trike Theatre Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks 2-5 years Aelous Real Estate & Property Management Aurora Tactical Bella Vista Marine Blew & Associates, P.A. Brick Street Brews LLC Clark Contractors, LLC CMC Sealcoating & Linestriping, LLC Dickinson Allstate and Financial Services Diversified Resources Edward Jones - Don Ogden, Financial Advisor FFO Home Freedom5:one Ministries Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC Gearhead Outfitters Grand Savings Bank J. Hilburn Custom Menswear - Nancy Paul Jerry Tucker Agency - Farmers Insurance Keith, Miller, Butler, Schneider & Pawlik, PLLC

Kurt Puttkammer Homes Lori Rogers Agency Farmers Insurance Martinez Law Firm, PLLC MC Petroleum Meister & McCracken Law Firm Moe's Southwest Grill Moses Tucker Real Estate Mt. Carmel Community in Rogers Newk's Eatery Rapha Center for Women's Ministries, Inc. EcoVet Furniture Stockdale-Moody Funeral Services Walter's Boot & Shoe Repair Whataburger Woof & Wander World Event Center 1 year AFS - Business Solutions and Call Center Operation Car Clinic Envision Nutrition Integrated Dentistry La Reyna Wireless Legacy Transit Lines, LLC Northwest Arkansas Catholic Respect Life Council Pafford EMS Promenade Health and Rehab Top Shelf Boat Lifts

40,000

searches happen every second on Google...

...where do you rank?

Contact us to find out!

479-202-9903 | info@customerswhostick.com

It’s the same for your online presence.

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C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 01 8

We spec specialize cialize in solid foundations!

C U STO M E R SW H O ST I C K .CO M

Chamber Networking & Educational Events The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a variety of events to help build your network and learn.

Below are the upcoming events to note. For more event details and to register, visit us online at RogersLowell.com.

JUNE 12, 2018 Presenting Sponsors:

JUNE 21, 2018

Presenting Sponsor:

Bailey & Oliver Law Firm First Western

Cherokee Casino & Hotel

Gold Sponsor:

Host Sponsor:

Pet Supplies Plus

Whataburger

Location:

Address:

Host Sponsor:

Location:

Whataburger

4335 S. Pleasant Crossing Blvd., Rogers

Fairfield Inn

4611 W. Rozell St., Rogers

SEPTEMBER 26, 2018

JULY 18, 2018

12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Presenting Sponsors:

Arkansas 529 College Investing Plans

Presenting Sponsor:

Lewis Automotive Group

Gold Sponsor:

Gold Sponsors:

OneDigital Health and Benefits

Meeting Sponsors:

Beall Barclay & Company

Location: Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Donating door prizes for chamber events is an effective strategy to gain awareness of your business as well as showcase your products & services.

If you’re interested in contributing a door prize to any of these events contact Maddie Ward at Maddie@RogersLowell.com.

Beaver Water District

Ashby Street Outdoor, LLC KFSM TV-5/KXNW TV-34 Cox Business

Address:

Location:

Address:

317 W. Walnut St., Rogers

NWACC Shewmaker Center for Workforce Technology

1000 SE. Eagle Way, Bentonville

Advertising with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce | Vol 13 JANUARY2018

Issue 1

ear!

Happy2 N2ew Y3

Your Banner Ad Here

g list of to review the followin the this year, be sure your planning for calendar. Then, contact efore you finalize record them in your level, there’s a Major Events and ships. No matter what the Chamber's 2018 s. teamto explore sponsor e for your busines Membership Services for increasing exposur right just that's sponsorship

The Good Life

Advertise in the annual destination print guide (also published online) featuring maps, restaurants and lodging lists, regional activities and attractions, and resources for visiting, living, working and playing in the Rogers-Lowell Area. Your message is printed in over 25,000 copies distributed to tourists, business travelers, new residents, current citizens and convention attendees. Call to reserve your space in the 2019-2020 issue now.

RogersLowell.com

Advertise online in the Chamber’s website and reach thousands of unique visitors each month. Paid advertising options include leaderboard ads (at the top of highly visited web pages), featured banners on select web pages and enhanced listings. Free online options include listing your business in the website’s Business Directory, offering eCoupons, sharing events in the Community Calendar and posting news in the Members News section with links to your website.

B

| 2018 Major Events February 22, 2018 SAVE THE DATES & Community | Commerce Annual tion of Business Area Chamber of 96th Annual Celebra The Rogers-Lowell y the Annual s & Community (formerl Celebration of Busines Northwest gathering of 1,000+ e Banquet) is an annual together to celebrat s leaders who come Arkansas busines nity excellence for lishments and commu business accomp the year for of event t It’s the highligh the previous year. way to socialize and rs, providing a fun Chamber membe with a Cocktail The event starts off hors cold network with peers. and s, hot a variety deliciou Reception serving r program features reception, a one-hou d’oeuvres. After the Ceremony. tion and Gavel Passing the Awards Celebra ding are presented to outstan S. Community awards Award (Rogers); Elbert l Good Neighbor Business of the tions: Dick Tramme Small organiza the or and ses Award; individuals, busines of Rogers-Lowell The Annual Award (Lowell); Spirit January 12, 2018. through d accepte Graham/Elza Tucker s being recipients over fabulou tions for awards are Year Award. Nomina honoring all the awards Party tion with a Celebra Celebration ends bar. desserts and a coffee

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, 12 7 products and services to decision-makers.

2 13 8 3 Ads are due on the 10th and 14 inserts 9 4 15 to each due on the 15th of10the month prior 5 issue. Call for an Advertising Contract now.

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Events and Meetings

Chamber Events Happy New Year! d Breakdown Continue

for 2018

of ional Knowledge Building Foundat and Coding; NWAEL Computer Science Business and Fun Offers a Mix of

ity – Hustle in Heels Focus on Commun l Event Hosts Inaugura Ladies Lead NWA Ticket ity – Revenue and Focus on Commun AMP in Rogers and Sales Up at Walmart Community the from Other Stories Division | Government Affairs Barclay-Matthews Page es ip Chamber Introduc e Legislative Leadersh Award for Distinctiv ons/Events Visiting Visit Rogers | Conventi ee Chairs and Page Committ ed Rogers in 2018; Members Recogniz Board outgoing

Continued on Page 3...

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ion | We've Taken 96th Annual Celebrat & Made It Even Better ul Something Wonderf ce

Experien The Good Life New for 2018 | 2018 September 14-15,

2018 Small Business Quarter Introducing the Business of the Council; 2017 Small c Snapshot Rogers Economi Award Winners;

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eNewsletters

On Mondays (Monday Memo) and Thursdays (Calendar at a Glance) the Chamber communicates weekly to nearly 4,000 members, business leaders and qualified buyers via professionally produced emails. Provide us your banner ad (design not included) by the last Friday of the month to advertise in the upcoming month’s issues. Call for an Advertising Contract now.

er 2017; Members | Novemb Welcome New Announced Nights | Dates 2018 Chamber for February Ribbon Cuttings

| November 2017

hip Renewals | Most Chamber Members Networking is the November 2017; Business to Promote Your Inexpensive Way

nal Events; ing & Educatio Chamber Network the Dates Meetings | Save 2018 Ambassador

RogersLowell.com

| JANUARY2018 1

RogersLowell.com | JUNE2018

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317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 RogersLowell.com

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