Chamber Voice | June 2020

June 2020 | Vol 15 Issue 6

Getting Back to Business

Whether in times of prosperity or times of crisis, your Chamber is leading the way, making sure we emerge stronger, together. From the very beginning of this crisis we’ve been there for you providing essential resources for COVID-19 information and guidelines. Now, it’s time to help you with the essentials of safely getting back to business in Northwest Arkansas.

#WeMeanBusiness See Story on Page 4

W HAT ’ S IN TH IS I SSUE ?

3 4 5 8 12

��������� Chamber Staff & Board of Directors

��������� Getting Back to Business | Business Playbook

��������� Getting Back to Business | Educational & Marketing Opportunities

���������Small Businesses Finding Success with Creative Entrepreneurism

������ COVID-19 Clouds Are Forming on the Horizon for the Governor and Legislators as Regular Session Looms

13 14 15 16 18 19 22 22 24 24 25

������ Members Helping Members | Sale Helps Members Secure PPE for Reopening

����� Chamber Celebrates Economic Development Week by Recognizing Businesses

�����Membership Tips | How to Submit Member News

����� Business and Community Partnerships Providing Pathways to Careers

����� Shop Local. Support Local. Travel Local.

�����#WeMeanBusiness Campaign Promotes How to Do Business with Member Businesses

����Census 2020 | Have You Been Counted?

����New Members | April 2020

����Membership Renewals | April 2020

����Annual Chamber Picnic June 12 | Be Our Guest!

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 P: (479) 636-1240 F: (479) 636-5485 2

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

���� Chamber Networking & Educational Events

CHA M BE R S TAFF Raymond Burns, CCE President/CEO rburns@rogerslowell.com

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

Jeff O’Neill Director of Special Events jeff@rogerslowell.com

Ronnie Webb, Jr. Destination Sales Manager | Visit Rogers ronnie@rogerslowell.com

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

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

Loretta Gomez Finance Manager loretta@rogerslowell.com

Justin Freeman Marketing Communications Specialist justin@rogerslowell.com

Katie Burns Vice President of Operations katie@rogerslowell.com

Geovanny Sarmiento Vice President of Community Engagement & Inclusion geovanny@rogerslowell.com

Sheree Barnes Operations Manager | Downtown Rogers, Inc. sheree@rogerslowell.com

Ike Reichenbach DTR Market Manager | Downtown Rogers, Inc. ike@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

Lance Lloyd Community Relations Manager lance@rogerslowell.com

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

Ross Phillips Vice President of Community Development ross@rogerslowell.com

Marni Rogers, IOM Member Relations Manager marni@rogerslowell.com

Luz Palmerin Sales & Marketing Coordinator | Visit Rogers luz@rogerslowell.com

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

Shey Bland Executive Director | Downtown Rogers, Inc. shey@rogerslowell.com

Kelly Parker, TMP Marketing Communications Manager | Visit Rogers kelly@rogerslowell.com

Ashley Matsumura Customer Relations Manager ashley@rogerslowell.com

Nick Smith Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com

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

B OARD OF DIREC TORS 2020 Directors

Executive Committee

Chairman of the Board | Angie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker’s Furniture & Appliances Chairman-Elect | Jeff Milford, AEP/SWEPCO Treasurer | Erin Kiefer, Assembled Products Past Chairman | Greg Fogle, Nabholz Construction President/CEO | Raymond Burns RIDC President | Jerry Vest, Regions Bank

Daizy Andrade, University of Arkansas Dr. Marlin Berry, Rogers Public Schools Jerry Carmichael, 3C Retail Solutions Ever Cuellar, First Security Bank Larry Cooper, Embassy Suites NW Arkansas Russ Daniel, McLarty Daniel Group Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp.

Sandy Edwards, Crystal Bridges Museum

Leah Acoach, FHB Ventures 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

2021 Directors

Tom Allen, Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners Ron Branscum, Arvest Bank David Kimball, Benchmark Group Jerra Nalley, Runway Tanya Smith, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Melissa Turpin, Honeycomb Kitchen Shop

Ex-Officio Directors

David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade Cathy Foraker, AT&T David Foster, APAC-Central, Inc. Ron Hayes, First United Methodist Church Dan Hendrix, Arkansas World Trade Center Latricia Hill-Chandler, Arvest Bank Operations Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers Tom Hopper, TallChamps, LLC

Division Chairs

Community Development - Leah Acoach Membership Services - Tanya Smith Economic Development - Tom Allen

Corry Hull, OneDigital Health and Benefits Dr. Evelyn Jorgenson, Northwest Arkansas Community College Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center Chris Moore, Mayor, City of Lowell Barry Moehring, Benton County Judge Bianca Montoya, Bike NWA John-Michael Scurio, George’s

Government Affairs - Jerry Carmichael Convention & Visitors Bureau - Larry Cooper

2022 Directors

Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Sotheby’s International Realty Dean Fisher, Glad Manufacturing, Inc. Angela Grayson, Precipice IP Denten Park, Northwest Health Curt Stamp, Cox Business Knight Weis, Signature Bank of Arkansas

Eric Pianalto, Mercy of Northwest Arkansas Chris Sultemeier, Retired Walmart Stennett Thompkins, AAA Insurance Dick Trammel, Chairman Emeritus Josh Vasquez, United Bank Emma Willis, Mangan Holcomb Partners Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods Amiee York, Black Hills Energy

Audit Committee David Vaden Ron Branscum Knight Weis

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

3

...Continued from Page 1

R E O P E N I N G S A F E LY |

Business Playbook

A

s we move forward, we know you are anxious to reopen your doors. To ensure the safety of our community and help you navigate this getting back to business phase, we created the

Rogers-Lowell Area is Open for Business Playbook.

It includes many of the recommendations

developed by the Governors Economic Recovery Task Force, guidelines from the CDC and other federal, state

Open for Business PLAYBOOK

ESS G YOUR BUSIN FOR REOPENIN OF COVID-19 IN THE AGE

and local agencies. This Playbook will help prepare you to safely serve your customers and accommodate your

has publicly declared any new legislation will include liability

employees. View & Download Playbook

protections. It was reported during the webinar that Governor

Working Safely There are businesses that have gone through the entirety of the crisis while continuously having staff working safely at the workplace and successfully surviving. A common thread among these businesses

Hutchinson’s current Executive Order 20-18 does address a lot of the issues of temporary liability protections for health care providers and emergency responders who are providing medical services in support of the state’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Some lawsuits have been filed and more are likely to follow. The

has been making staff and customers feel safe. These businesses have

defense bar has expressed four areas of concern: exposure for lawsuits

been noticeably disciplined with social distancing, sanitizing, wearing

is high for business; product liability is a major concern (especially in the

masks when appropriate and honoring a “don’t show up sick” policy.

meat processing and supply chain areas); medical liability is a concern for

The Chamber’s President/CEO, Raymond Burns summed it up nicely

providers (especially if guidelines are not followed), and for employers

when he said, “remember, it all begins with your safety for employees

there is concern if employees can prove they contracted COVID-19 on the

and it carries through to the customer.”

job; and lastly, securities litigation is the fourth area of concern.

Safety | Liabilities & Guidelines

offered up the seven best ways to position yourself against legal

During the webinar, Robert George, Friday, Eldredge & Clark,

In May, the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce hosted a

claims: follow public health guidance (comply and then some);

webinar called COVID-19 Liability Issues for Business and discussed

keep up with up with your peers in the industry; use third party

the need for new legislation for business liability protections. The

professionals (consultants, cleaning services, etc.); document your

sentiment is that any protections adopted for businesses need to be

practices; document your attempts to acquire materials (e.g., personal

timely, targeted, and temporary to gain passage in Congress and state

protective equipment); plan now for COVID-19 outbreaks in your

legislatures. Polling suggests that 84 percent of Americans prefer

workforce; and update your leave policies so that they are specific to

some sort of lawsuit protections for business. Senator McConnell

COVID-19 concerns.

4

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

7 Ways to Position Yourself Against Claims

Keep Up with Your Peers in the Industry

Follow Public Health Guidance (Comply and Then Some)

Use Third Party Professionals

(Consultants, Cleaning Services, Etc.)

Document Your Practices

(e.g., Personal Protective Equipment)

Update Your Leave Policies so that They are Specific to COVID-19 Concerns

Plan Now for COVID-19 Outbreaks in Your Workforce Source:

Document Your Attempts to Acquire Materials

Robert George | Friday, Eldredge & Clark

In late April, to focus our time and resources most effectively, we

REOPENING |

Educational & Marketing Opportunities Chamber-to-Community (C2C) | Back to Business NWA Series An important activity of our Chamber’s mission is convening the community to collaborate, plan and imagine together. We’re always

surveyed our Members and asked them for ways that we could continue assisting them during the COVID-19 Recovery Period. One survey question asked for member feedback on topics that they wanted to learn more about for potential webinars.

We listened and put together the C2C Back to Business NWA Series focusing on topics dedicated to helping members get back to reopen and get back to business. Below are links to webinars that have been recorded and a link to the RogersLowell.com Events Calendar to stay on top of upcoming C2C series webinars (more are continuously being added): • • • • • • •

Creating Our Vision in 3(D)!

Affordable Marketing Solutions with the Chamber Leveraging Freelancing for Small Business Growth Pandemic EEO Issues, Tips and Strategies Legal Considerations for Reopening a Business Update on PPP and Other Resources for Small Businesses LinkedIn for Thought Leadership: Grow Your Network and Own Your Industry

Community Builders |

looking for ways to bring the right people together at the right time.

One way we do it is our Chamber-to-Community (C2C) events. C2C’s are designed to provide opportunities for Chamber members and our community to come together for education and discussion on important topics impacting the community.

Turn the page to learn about our

Back to Business Marketing Kit

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

5

$100 Back to Business NWA Marketing Kit | Available June through August The Chamber’s We Mean Business campaign showcases Members’ stories about getting back to business in our social media.

As part of this awareness-building campaign,

Back to Business NWA

Marketing Kit

we are offering (June through August) special savings for members on a special package of advertising and promotion tools.

Base Package – Save $300 Starting June 1, take advantage of our affordable ($100) advertising and promotion package available for a limited time (through August 31) to Chamber members – regularly valued at $400, it’s a savings of $300. This Kit helps your business increase awareness during the reopening period by marketing to the Chamber’s 20,000+ social media audience. You’ll reach more people, faster.

The Marketing Kit’s base package increases your reach with one Chamber Voice of Business Blog post promoting your business and its reopening story (value of $200) and includes the ability to customize your messaging with an embedded video (must be under one minute run-time and provided by you – see guidelines).

The base package also includes one premium social media marketing package - four weeks of social media promotion on the Chamber’s Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn (value of $200).

Customize Your Marketing Kit: Add On to the Base Package to Save up to 35% Members who purchase the base package for

Add-On #3 | One Month of Premium Social Media Marketing Package – Regular Price: $200

Example Marketing Kit Package:

price depending upon how many add-ons:

1 Add-On – Save 10% | 2 Add-Ons – Save 25% | 3 Add-Ons – Save 35% Add-On #1 | One Month of eNews Banner Ads

Each member who purchases the Back to

Member purchases $100 base package and

Business NWA Marketing Kit will receive free

adds-on one month of eNews banner ads and a

access for six months (expires December 31,

half page Chamber Voice newsletter display ad.

2020) to the Google Online Marketing Academy, courtesy of Visit Rogers, a division of the Rogers-

PRICE | The total price is calculated:

Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce (value of

$100 (Base Package) + $200 (eNews) +

$120 based upon a full year license cost of $240).

$150 (newsletter display ad) = $450

$100 also are eligible to choose up to three add-ons below and earn discounts on the total Marketing Kit

Added Bonus – Free Access for Six Months to the Google Online Marketing Academy

The Academy helps improve digital marketing efforts by providing online instruction,

DISCOUNT | The total discount is calculated for a net due: $450 X 25% (earned discount for 2 AddOns) = $337.50

best practices, tips and more for maximizing online presence in Google’s products. Consumers are making hundreds of billions of searches withing Google products each hour. Learn how to get verified and manage your presence

SAVINGS | The total savings is calculated:

with Google My Business. Ensure that your

Member saves $300 on the base package

information is correct because complete business

(Monday Memo and Calendar at a Glance on

at the $100 price, $50 on the eNews banner

listings are 50 percent more likely to get a visit

Thursday) – Regular Price: $200

ad, $37.50 on the newsletter display ad, and

in-person after being seen online.

an additional $25 on the base package for a Add-On #2 | One Month of Chamber Voice of Business Newsletter (digital) Display Advertising – Regular Prices: 2-Page Spread $500; Full Page $300; and Half Page $150

6

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

total savings of $412.50 for this customized Marketing Kit. Download the Order Form or call us to order your Marketing Kit now at (479) 636-1240.

July 25, 2020

Visit RogersLowell.com

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

7

Small Businesses Finding Success with Entrepreneurism

Creative

S

mall business owners who are meeting the needs of customers during a period of social distancing, fear and uncertainty are certainly earning their stripes as entrepreneurs.

COVID-19 is the most impactful event of a generation and as business owners struggle to survive, many are finding opportunities to flourish with resilience, innovation, and determination.

The Chamber’s popular social media campaign #WeMeanBusiness is recognizing businesses who are surviving with creative entrepreneurism. Here are some of the stories we have discovered.

LBC Studio A simple storefront at 105 W. Walnut Street provides little hint of the creativity and broad reaching business activities that lie within. Like her commercial space on the bricks of downtown Rogers, Laura Coello, and her design business LBC Studio, are difficult to encapsulate. She designs lots of products and makes business deals that might surprise her neighbors in the historic district. “I was attracted to downtown Rogers for several reasons,” commented Coello.

“Most importantly, as a small woman-owned business, it is more affordable than other regions in Northwest Arkansas. And, I just love the look and feel of downtown Rogers.”

Taking Care of Business – Innovative Design With more than 20 years of experience in design, branding, and product development, Coello’s clients rely on her for new innovative product ideas and packaging design solutions that earn placement on the shelves and e-commerce sites of major retailers. She provides the latest in trends, colors, and patterns for products that are eventually sold in big box

8

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

stores. She can conceptualize a product from start to finish or work with a client to identify what

Adapting to Social Distancing The COVID-19 pandemic has not

scheduled to hit Sam’s Club in the Fall of 2020. These products are among the dozens

is or is not working and make improvements to

dramatically impacted her business. “For the

each season that Coello designs to attract the

make it more marketable and more profitable.

most part it has been business as usual since I

attention of Christmas shoppers.

With dozens of products and hundreds of

don’t work with the public,” explained Coello.

These, as with many consumer products she

moving parts, the LBC Studio workflow can’t

Her product photoshoots are probably impacted

develops, Coello has been involved every step

be defined with anything less than a massive

the most. “The coronavirus situation is costing

of the way. She creates the designs, specifies the

flow chart. She specializes in textiles and toys

everyone more time and that means more

raw materials, presents samples to the buying

but works across many other categories like

money.” She brings in one photographer to work

teams, designs the packaging, and photographs

outdoor, housewares and even food. It takes

with fewer models to ensure they have room

the product for packaging and dotcom.

about six months for a single product to come

to accommodate social distancing. But, having

Coello’s international business operation is an

to market and there are dozens of steps to mass

worked from home for 10 years, largely meeting

unexpected addition to the brick lined streets

produce the products that line the walls of her

with national and international clients online, her

and historic buildings of downtown Rogers. “For

studio. Whether she is designing an inflatable

process hasn’t changed much.

me, downtown Rogers provides a charming, up

raft shaped like a giant swan to accommodate

A few weeks into the Spring coronavirus

and coming area to plant some creative roots,”

you and six of your closest friends or preparing a

outbreak her studio looked more like Christmas.

she explained. “I continue to be optimistic for

photo shoot with a fall bedding line, she makes

An assortment of holiday bedding and whimsical

the future of the retail industry that is thriving in

the process look seamless.

plush robes with stuffed animal hoods were

Northwest Arkansas and appreciate the business I

being readied for a photoshoot of product

have with Walmart and Sam’s Club.”

Turn the page to see how

Resource Design & American Estates have gotten creative in how it does business in the current climate

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

9

Resource Design Resource Design (Rede), an architecture and design firm based in downtown Rogers, has been implementing creative ways to weather the disruptions of COVID-19.

Architect Jessica Hester assumed her role as the new owner and CEO of the almost 30 year-old firm on January 1, 2020, continuing to work with Rede’s established portfolio of clients, and expanding the scope of Rede’s design work by bringing on board artist Dayton Castleman as the new Director of Visual Thinking in early March.

Adapting to Working Remotely By mid-March, in response to the growing awareness of the impact of COVID19, and the measures required to fight its spread, Rede’s employees agreed to work remotely to protect the company’s employees and clients. They adopted a common online platform for voice, video, and text communication among their team, while maintaining a couple of employees working at their 1st Street office to support some of the functions that require on site work such as printing and receiving deliveries.

While forced to lay off several employees temporarily, CARES Act/PPP assistance allowed the firm to bring back a fully operational staff.

“It was a disorienting week to start a new job,” says Dayton. “Jessica and I settled on my odd job title after weeks of deliberating over what you call a person whose job is to think creatively across all dimensions of the business, and by day six I’m working from my basement.”

“This kind of disruption was a new wrinkle for every single business, and while our work became focused on understanding how our clients were adapting, and on saving our team and our ship, it also allowed us to explore how we could deploy our expertise for the benefit of our community in some unique ways.”

Making Time to Help the Community In the first days of the shut-down Rede spearheaded a project to facilitate the design and fabrication of clear acrylic “aerosol boxes” intended to provide an added layer of protection for healthcare workers during the process of intubation.

The project was supported by Mercy Hospital and benefitted from technical assistance through the Amazeum. With donated fabrication, assembly, and delivery assistance from The RoArk Group, and fiscal sponsorship by Rogers Experimental House to administer donations from area individuals and businesses (First Presbyterian Church of Bentonville, Bailey and Oliver Law Firm Rogers, BNSF Logistics Springdale), the project was able to distribute 85 boxes to hospitals and healthcare facilities in Arkansas at no cost to the recipient institutions, covering the entire regional Mercy Hospital system, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Conway Regional, and Ozark Community Hospital, as well as the Rogers Fire Department EMT units.

They have continued their community-focused work with a project to provide protective interaction screens for area businesses looking for customized passive protection for their customers and employees. Using what they have learned working with hospitals, their goal is to provide custom-designed safety equipment to area businesses that give an added layer of protection while interfering as little as possible with customer service.

They are also shaping an initiative to provide pro bono architecture and design work for projects either on hold because of COVID-19, or for businesses working to make space modifications to increase customer and employee safety in the era of this pandemic.

10

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

American Estates

hours and began an increased number of

new and existing clients. “People have been

emails and phone calls with their clients. Using

spending more time at home than ever before,

of American Estates, are makers of original

proper precautions, they also offer one-on-one

and they are keenly aware of their surroundings,”

furniture using wood harvested in Arkansas.

appointments with clients in their showroom

reflected Niki. “It’s been incredibly meaningful

They have a manufacturing facility in Lowell and

in the historic building at 103 W. Walnut

to be able to help provide functional relief

a showroom in downtown Rogers. Each piece

Street. Additionally, they took this opportunity

and excitement to families who are facing so

of furniture is crafted by hand with premium

provided by the COVID-19 pandemic to launch

much change and uncertainty in these days.”

materials and a careful attention to detail. One

their online store at www.theamericanestates.

Commercial clients are also making needed

of the things that sets them apart is they work

com/shop. The new website is their first step

updates to their spaces while they are finding

directly with customers to choose the perfect

into e-commerce.

time to focus on different aspects of operating.

Discovering New Product Opportunities

Jesse Weegens have loved seeing the community

Niki and Jesse Weegens, co-owners

details for their space, and customize all aspects of a project – the design, dimensions, materials, finish, and all the final details.

Rethinking How to Do Business Like many other local businesses, the Weegens had to abandon their normal store

The reduction of hours in their showroom

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Nikki and come together to support local businesses during this crazy time. “It has been refreshing to see the

did not mean a reduction in business. They have

increase in appreciation and mindfulness for

had a new opportunity to build furniture that

small businesses, and we couldn’t be prouder to

adds function and beauty to the homes of both

be part of this amazing community!”

Do you have a story of creative entrepreneurism during the COVID-19 pandemic? Let us hear from you so we can help tell your story and help the community learn how to do business with you.

Contact Us at www.RogersLowell.com/forms/contact-us or email Justin@RogersLowell.com so we can

tell your story.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

11

COVID-19 Clouds Are Forming on the Horizon for the Governor and Legislators as Regular Session Looms

T

here have been 46 governors of Arkansas, and most of

the last regular legislative session of his time as governor. Hutchinson

them entered the office with bold visions and legislative

has been successful in his tenure and has served the people of

agendas to make the state of Arkansas a better place

Arkansas well. Like many governors before him, Asa Hutchinson has

for its residents. However, many governors of Arkansas

also arrived at the crossroads of his own long and storied political

have found that those bold visons and agendas were

career. Time and circumstance have arrived to present COVID-19 for

completely altered by time and circumstance. Politics is an institution that is dictated by the tyranny of the moment, and many governors have risen to respond to their “moments”, with time and its passing serving as the ultimate judge of their actions.

On April 23, 2013, Governor Mike Beebe signed the Arkansas

him and the members of the General Assembly with their “moment”.

Budgetary Issues Forming There is no arguing that the state budget will be impacted by the state’s response to the COVID-19 virus. To what extent that impact will

Medicaid Expansion Act into law. The new law was known as the “Private

be felt remains to be seen, but most legislative observers will agree that

Option” and served as a model of bipartisan legislation for the rest of

it is going to be substantial. The long streak, in which revenues for the

the country to follow. It was passed during the last regular legislative

state have exceeded forecasts, has ended abruptly. As a response to the

session of Governor Beebe’s long and storied career in state government.

pandemic, the state has already spent down the bulk of its accumulated

Although he had not planned on it, the Private Option would serve as

surplus during a special session held in February. In the next session,

Mike Beebe’s legacy and crowning achievement as Governor.

State Agencies will likely have to identify cost-saving measures in their

In January of 2021, Governor Asa Hutchinson will also be facing

12

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

budgets, which will affect the services that they provide.

To continue the prosperity that Northwest Arkansas has enjoyed for Members Helping Members | so long, the business community will be working with our legislators to keep those hard-fought-for tax reforms in place, while championing legislation and sound fiscal policies that will lead to more population growth and job expansion in Northwest Arkansas.

A Special Session?

Sale Helps Members Secure PPE for Reopening

Liability issues that are influencing business are driving the early discussion among legislators for the governor to issue an Executive Order and call for a special session to pass some form of liability protections from an onslaught of litigation for health care providers and businesses owners. At the time of this writing, chances are 50/50 that the governor will call a special session. If he does, it will be up to him to decide what issues are placed in the call for legislators to consider.

Business Will Be Impacted As the legislature meets again this time next year, there is some concern in the business community that the tax reforms passed in the 2019 legislative session could possibly be delayed because of the financial situation the state finds itself. Measures to cut the corporate income tax, to implement the single-sales factor, and extend the “net operating loss carry forward� were measures that served as the core of the recommendations proposed by the Tax Reform Task Force that met in the interim before the last regular session. The Chamber will be monitoring this situation closely and be working next session to keep these much-needed tax reforms in place.

An Unprecedented Time?

The Arkansas economy has not seen a sudden jolt of this magnitude since the Great Depression. At the time Arkansas entered the Great Depression, it was a mostly poor and rural state, and Benton County was one of the poorest counties in one of the poorest states in

Pictured is Joe Papczynski (right), long-time Chamber member

the country. Now it’s almost a century later, and Arkansas may still be

representing Go Brands, who organized a PPE (Personal Protective

considered a rural state, but it has made great strides economically,

Equipment) sale May 16-17 at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade Mall.

and Benton County is now the wealthiest county in Arkansas and

A portion of the product was donated to Kent Eikenberry (left) and

serves as the epicenter of one of the fastest growing regional

the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank, receiving more than $2,000 worth of

economies in the country.

hand sanitizer and masks because of the sale.

To continue the prosperity that Northwest Arkansas has enjoyed

The purpose of this sale was to get badly needed PPE to

for so long, the business community will be working with our legislators

businesses that are reopening in Northwest Arkansas. Hundreds of

to keep those hard-fought-for tax reforms in place, while championing

businesses and individuals showed up to buy supplies and support the

legislation and sound fiscal policies that will lead to more population

Food Bank. Additional product is available by calling Joe for orders or

growth and job expansion in Northwest Arkansas.

refills at (479) 263-8441.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

13

Chamber Celebrates

Economic Development Week

by Recognizing Businesses

A

rkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson proclaimed the first week of May as Economic Development Week in Arkansas. The week also coincided with National Travel and Tourism Week. Chambers, cities, and travel and tourism professionals across the state united to

celebrate the value that tourism and a strong economy bring for our businesses and personal wellbeing. The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Rogers mission work (economic development and destination marketing) goes hand-in-hand to establish a vibrant, thriving community.

As part of celebrating Economic Development Week, the Chamber reached out to members and highlighted those who wanted to participate in a social media campaign recognizing the impact their businesses have on our region’s history and economy. Many of these posts were also shared on social media by Visit Rogers to promote the strong tourism destination that our community has become.

In total, the social media campaign’s posts accumulated more than 70,000 people reached and amassed more than 60,000 impressions with nearly 10,000 engagements.

View a full list of businesses highlighted during Economic Development Week on the Chamber Voice of Business Blog at RogersLowell.com/Blog.

About Your Chamber We are a nonprofit business and community development organization serving Rogers, Lowell, and all of Northwest Arkansas.

While we work in close partnership with the city governments in Rogers and Lowell, we are a private entity and not a government agency.

Working with our members, partners and investors, together we are the trusted source for growing our region’s business, activating high-impact leaders and building a strong and diverse community. Ultimately, we help create a cohesive and connected community where people want to visit, live, invest, work, and play.

Learn more about our Vision. Mission and Values.

14

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

Economic Development Week

Featured Small Businesses Komodo Modern Asian Cuisine NU Marketing Walker Brothers Beautiful Lives Boutique House Inc./Thrive Real Estate Joe Thielen Insurance Agency American Estates Honeycomb Kitchen Shop Level 5 Architecture Tie 1 On ASAP For Social Media Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Pre-school HOTWORX Natural State Beer Co. Neighbor’s Mill Bakery & Café Andy’s Frozen Custard Hook Line & Sinker Kwik Kar Center Samaritan Community Center Arkie Apparel Fish City Grill Bolder Coffee PIXEL: A School For Media Arts Watkins, Boyer, Gray & Curry, PLLC CRD Real Estate & Development

MEMBE RS H I P TI PS |

How to Submit

Member News

D

id you know you can send your press releases or share important news about your organizations through the

3)

My Chamber member portal? Let us help you spread the word! Submissions will be included on the Members News page and promoted Chamber’s in the Chamber’s

social media.

1) Log into My Chamber Login at www.rogerslowell.com.

2) Login with your new Username and Password.

3) Find Advertising section and click on submit link to open form. Make sure you are managing account as your organization.

4)

4) Complete form and click Submit.

Please allow up to 48 hours to process request.

1)

2)

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

15

Business and Community Partnerships Providing Pathways to Careers

T

he Rogers Public Schools initiated the Career Launch Work-Ready program in February of this year. The goal of program is to provide opportunities for

students to participate in certification and training programs to prepare them for careers following high school graduation. The program is designed for current seniors and 2019 graduates who will soon begin new jobs and careers. The twenty-seven certification and

The early school closures and pandemic guidelines established new landmarks for how education and learning would continue during the remaining of the school year.

training programs were purposely selected to

had just been “launched� and students were beginning the programs. With new guidelines in response to the pandemic, on-line instruction quickly replaced on-site teaching and learning, including the certification and training programs. With determination to continue the Career Launch Work-Ready program for the students, planning and work began to re-design the formats of the certification courses and trainings to ensure compliance with emerging guidelines related to the pandemic.

align with employment and workforce needs

to begin the certification and training programs

within the Rogers community and Northwest

they had selected, each of which would bring

Partnerships with Local Business and Industry Strengthen

Arkansas region.

them one step closer to a job and career. The

Working collaboratively with local business

news of the COVID-19 pandemic would soon

and industry partners throughout March and

change the educational landscape for students,

April, new program designs emerged, and

teachers, parents and the community. The

partnerships grew stronger each day. The

early school closures and pandemic guidelines

connection between education and industry

had registered for the certification and training

established new landmarks for how education

had become more evident and meaningful in

programs that were scheduled to begin on

and learning would continue during the

the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. History is

March 1, 2020. With high school graduation just

remaining of the school year.

filled with stories of amazing accomplishments

COVID-19 Changes Educational Landscape By the end of February, over 50 students

a couple months away, students were anxious

16

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

The Career Launch Work-Ready program

that have come from people working together

to overcome adversity. And so‌this article is

Systems and other trainings at the Business

care industries. Katie has been a valuable

dedicated to those that have helped make the

and Industry Training Center. The director

liaison among the local trade industry and the

certification courses and trainings possible for

of the center, Julie McAllister, has been very

students who are seeking employment with

our students.

helpful in providing the students training

local companies.

Petra Allied Health and Medical College Petra Allied Health and Medical College will

sessions that would accommodate each student’s schedule. She has also secured seats in upcoming trainings for the students to

FANUC Robotic Training The Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce

provide them additional skills and knowledge

and NorthWest Arkansas Community College

provide online Certified Nurse’s Assistant (CNA),

that will be beneficial as they seek employment

will continue to provide the FANUC Robotic

Phlebotomy Technician and Veterinary Assistant

with local trade industries.

Training to students this summer. Students will

courses for our students. Renee Anderson and the past month to design an online platform for

NWA Construction Safety, Inc. | OSHA-10 Training

the courses that students would have access to

NWA Construction Safety, Inc. has

Joshua Anderson have worked diligently over

have the opportunity to obtain FANUC industry certification in reduced class size settings at the Northwest Arkansas Robotic Training Center in Fayetteville.

from home or off-site locations. They have been

provided OSHA-10 training to over two

tremendous partners and have expressed a

hundred students in the Rogers Public Schools

express its sincere appreciation and gratitude

commitment to helping the students complete

during the 2019-2020 school year. Owner, Katie

to their business and industry partners for their

the courses and certification assessments over

McCarty, will offer the OSHA-10 and OSHA-30

continued support and assistance as they navigate

the summer months.

General Industry Safety Training to students in

the challenges of the pandemic together.

Business and Industry Training Center Several students will begin Electrical

June. She has been instrumental in providing

The Rogers Public Schools would like to

Partnerships help students with

the safety training for students who will pursue

opportunities to gain valuable skills and

jobs in the construction and related trade skills

certifications that will help prepare them for

industries, as well as agricultural and health

bright futures.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

17

Shop Local.

Support Local.

Travel Local.

T

ravel is still very limited around

experience everyday farm life at Dogwood

support a new shop, visit a local attraction,

the world. Visit Rogers encourages

Hills Guest Farm in Harriet, and hit the trails

and continue to support your usual local

you to travel locally in-state and

in Northwest Arkansas.

establishments as well.

explore the city you live in. Now is the time to take a few days and

Explore Northwest Arkansas

When traveling or visiting businesses in your city, we suggest:

head to the city in Arkansas you keep meaning

Right here in Rogers and Northwest

to visit or check out that attraction in your own

Arkansas, you can test your skills on the new

distancing, wearing a mask, and following

city you have never explored.

Monument Trails at Hobbs State Park, explore

group size recommendations for gatherings

the cave at War Eagle Cavern, take the family

• Calling ahead to check business hours and to

Plan Your Arkansas Adventure Arkansas, The Natural State, is known for

for a picnic and walk at Lake Atalanta, break out the kayak for adventures at the Siloam Springs

abundant parks and wilderness areas. With

Kayak Park, fish on Beaver Lake, soar through

terrain featuring mountains, caves, rivers, and

the railcar at The Railyard Bike Park, enjoy a

hot springs, there are places all over the state

family day out at the Rogers Aquatics Center,

that bring adventure to life. Arkansas has

and so much more. Visit our “things to do” page

everything from soft adventure for anyone of

to start planning your next outdoor adventure.

any skill level to enjoy to extreme adventure that’s not for the faint of heart.

Throughout the state, you can mine

Support Local Businesses While traveling the state or staying locally,

• Following all CDC guidelines for social

see what guidelines they have in place • Checking the COVID-19 page on the Chamber website for up-to-date information

New TV Spot to Promote State Tourism Visit Rogers has launched a 15-second television spot in conjunction with Arkansas State Tourism this month. Be on the lookout for outdoor inspiration in Rogers! Follow Visit

for diamonds in Murfreesboro, relax in the

we urge you to support the community’s local

Rogers on Facebook (@visitrogers), Instagram

springs and spas in Hot Springs, ride your

businesses. They need our support through

(@visitrogersar), and Twitter (@visitrogers) for

bike over the Big Dam Bridge in Little Rock,

these trying times. Try a new restaurant,

more travel ideas.

Follow Visit Rogers on Social Media: 18

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

#WeMeanBusiness Campaign Promotes How to Do Business with Member Businesses

I

n April, The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce launched its #WeMeanBusiness social media campaign to generate awareness in the community of member businesses who are safely doing business and how to do business with them. Chamber Staff, Ambassadors, Executive Committee, and Board of Directors visited with members (observing social distancing and other safety guidelines), learned about their stories, took photos of their products/services, and posted to the Chamber’s social media platforms. The social media posts have achieved tremendous results in both reach and engagement.

At the end of May, a total of 100 member businesses had been promoted as part of the campaign. Turn the page for a random sampling of some of the campaign’s posts. To read more, visit the Chamber’s social media at Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

19

Meme’s Caribbean Flavour Meme’s Caribbean Flavour is serving the community by feeding people in need with to-go orders from her new restaurant at 115 N. Dixieland Road, Ste. 9.

Owner Shurla “Meme” Jobe has partnered with her Keypoint Church

several weeks. We donate 1,000 loaves of fresh sandwich bread each week to the NWA Food Bank and another 400-500 loaves to different agencies in our area.”

On April 22, Harris Baking Company’s board of directors voted to pay an Employee Appreciation Bonus to every employee. The $400

family, IDK? CAFE, NWA Givers and others to make hundreds of free

bonus equals $1 per hour for a 10-week period and will be paid the first

meals available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Jobe also showed

week of June.

appreciation for workers at the local unemployment office and delivered

Contact them at (479) 636-3313 or visit harrisbaking.com.

Caribbean Meals to these essential workers.

Reach out to Shurla Jobe if you would like to recommend deserving essential workers or if you would like to support this project. You may further support this generous entrepreneur when you order a dozen of her Signature Hand Pies online. These fried pies are available at memescaribbeanflavour.square.site.

Beautiful Lives Boutique Beautiful Lives Boutique (BLB) opened in Bentonville, its third location, in November 2019 and recently expanded to an online shopping experience this March in response to the COVID-19 crisis.

BLB is a nonprofit women’s thrift boutique that exists to support women and children experiencing crisis and vulnerability. They partner with seven local nonprofits and three global nonprofits to help

Harris Baking Co. Harris Baking Company, a 96-year-old Rogers company, has been

transform communities by resourcing and empowering those who have been marginalized.

“We are consistently amazed by the generosity of the NWA

baking fresh bread products daily since early March to take care of their

community,” they said. “Whether donating high-quality women’s

customers in a 9-state area.

clothing or volunteering time in one of our stores, the individuals who

They have not laid off any employees and are partnering with a local employment agency to keep enough people available for

work with us help make our mission possible!”

BLB invites you to hop online, donate your gently used women’s

the amount of product they are producing. They currently have 170

clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories, and/or volunteer with them.

employees with up to 25 temporary staffing employees each week.

You can shop online at www.shopblbbentonville.com and donate your

“Being a food company, we already practice good manufacturing practices (GMPs),” General Manager Jim Twiggs said. “However, we have improved several of our GMPs and focused on ‘minimizing the exposure’ for our employees. These improvements include sanitizing all common touch areas every four hours inside the plant (door knobs, touch screens, key pads, hand rails, etc.), limiting our sales team to no outside travel, restricting all visitors coming to the facility, not handling any packages until 24 hours after they have been delivered, equipping our route drivers with sanitizer and encouraging them to wipe down door handles, steering wheels and other high use areas of their trucks. We installed two new hand washing sinks, giving our employees more access to hand washing stations. As a company we practice safe distancing in all areas.

We have gloves and masks available for all employees. The leadership team meets every morning for a few minutes to discuss how we can keep everyone safe while producing a quality product.”

“Because we are so blessed, we want to do what we can for people in our community. For the past seven weeks we have fed our employees each Friday. We choose a different restaurant each week to provide these meals to our employees. We will continue to do this for the next

20

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

clothes curbside at 1327 S. Main St. Mon-Sat 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

The Shelter Shop

George’s, Inc.

The Shelter Shop, located at 2700 W. Walnut St. in Rogers, has

George’s Inc., with locations at 1000 N. 2nd St. in Rogers and 402

started adding items to their Facebook Shop page and customers

W. Robinson Ave. in Springdale, as well as its affiliate brands Forester

can call in to purchase that item. They can then do curbside pickup.

Farmers Market, Ozark Mountain Poultry and Quick N Eat, are proud to

This allows customers an opportunity to still shop and help The

help feed America during this unprecedented life event.

Shelter Shop with their mission of supporting children at Northwest

“As of today, all of our eight manufacturing plants are operating

Arkansas Children’s Shelter with food, clothing, necessities, doctor’s

in Rogers, Batesville and Springdale, Arkansas as well as Missouri,

appointments, and anything else they may need.

Tennessee and Virginia and we proudly continue to work hard to feed

“The safety and security of our customers is our top priority,”

America,” George’s Inc. said. “Due to the events of COVID-19, we have

The Shelter Shop’s Brandon Bulen said. “We continue to deep clean

enacted a robust plan to manage our business forward while taking care

everything even though part of our policy is to clean products before

of our valued team members. Our plan includes enhanced sanitation

they even hit the floor. Being able to go to online shopping allows us to

guidelines as well as an abundance of caution for all who enter our

continue our mission and goals of raising money for the shelter. We are

locations, including our own team members. We are still active in our

here for whatever we need to do to help the community and I can’t wait

hiring efforts for our plant locations and we take pride in our strength in

to see our customers in the future.”

fostering relationships, not only with each other and our team members

For more information, contact The Shelter Shop at (479) 202-5230 or visit nwacs.org/shelter-shop.

but with our valued customers, clients, vendors, corporate partners, growers and community leaders.”

“As we are considered an essential business within the infrastructure of the USA, our Corporate Office locations in Rogers and in Springdale are also open at this time but, as expected, they have a limited number of essential employees on-site with the vast majority of our professional corporate workforce on a tele-work from home plan due to social distancing. We would like to sincerely thank all of our 7,000 team members and independent growers. Their continued hard work, loyalty and dedication is making a difference in order to keep food on the tables across our country – and doing all of this while staying safe within our various workplace locations. Our hats off to everyone for a job well done.”

SERC Physical Therapy SERC Physical Therapy’s clinicians at all Northwest Arkansas locations are still treating patients and following the latest CDC guidelines to keep patients safe using gloves, masks, and temperature scans before in-clinic treatments and telehealth visits if needed.

“Our goal is to provide exceptional care and remarkable experiences,” Rogers Clinic Director Trevor Davidson said. “We know that the need for therapy does not stop during times of global crisis and are excited to be able to provide the same level of quality care that you have come to expect from us.”

For more information, call (479) 636-1187 or visit serc.urpt.com/ locations/rogers.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

21

Census 2020 |

Have You Been Counted?

60.3% 55.0% 65.6% 68.0%

Self-Response Rate (%) 100% 0-15%

16-30%

31-40%

41-50%

51-56%

57-62%

63-68%

69-74%

75-85%

86-100%

50% 0%

Mar 19

Apr 2

Apr 16

Apr 30

May 14

May 28

*All figures come from 2020census.gov as of April 29, 2020

Make sure you, your family, your neighbors and friends are all counted! Head to 2020Census.gov if you haven’t completed the census and fill it out today, and encourage the rest of our community to do so, also.

NEW MEMBERS | April 2020 BEAUTIFUL LIVES BOUTIQUE

FHB VENTURES

SLIME STUDIO

Melody Taylor 1108 N. COLLEGE AVE. | FAYETTEVILLE, AR 72703 (479) 301-2256 | BEAUTIFULLIVESBOUTIQUE.COM ORGANIZATIONS

Leah Acoach ROGERS, AR 72756 BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

Johnny Kim 5100 W. PAULINE WHITAKER PKWY., STE. 105 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 202-9705 | DIYSLIMESTUDIO.COM RECREATION

BEAUTIFUL LIVES BOUTIQUE

GREEN LAW FIRM DBA NWA MOBILE ESTATE PLANNING

Melody Taylor 103 N. MT. OLIVE ST. | SILOAM SPRINGS, AR 72761 (479) 238-8621 | BEAUTIFULLIVESBOUTIQUE.COM ORGANIZATIONS

Hunter Green P.O. BOX 2006 | LOWELL, AR 72745 (479) 320-7876 | GREENLAWFIRMPLLC.COM/ ATTORNEYS

22

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

Now Accepting

APPLICATIONS for the 2020-2021 Class

LBC provides leadership training specific to the regional issues facing the county, and serves as a training ground for future leaders in Benton County.

For more information and to download an application, click here: www.leadershipbentoncounty.org Deadline to submit applications is September 30. w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

23

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | April 2020 30+ YEARS

11-20 YEARS

Brick Street Brews LLC

Prairie Creek Development - 56 years

Andy’s Frozen Custard

Clark Contractors, LLC

Bob Maloney Collision - 55 years

Boys & Girls Club of Benton County - Rogers Unit

El Pueblo Market #1

Nabholz Construction - 47 years

Camp Bow Wow

Grand Savings Bank

ACE Glass - 43 years

Central States Manufacturing, Inc.

LegalShield - Russell Anzalone

Benchmark Group - 42 years

Crye-Leike Realtors/Main Office

Simplemachine

Al McCarty Jewelers - 41 years

Domino’s Pizza

Southern Reprographics, Inc.

Matthews, Campbell, Rhoads, McClure & Thompson, P.A. - 40

Fish City Grill

Village on the Park Rogers

years

Hook Line & Sinker

Jiffy Kwick - 37 years

The House of Prayer

2-5 YEARS

Assembled Products Corporation - 34 years

Information Solutions Team, LLC

Freedom5:one Ministries

Open Avenues - 34 years

Kumon Math & Reading Center of Lowell

The House

Abundant Performance - 31 years

McGaugh RV Center

J. Hilburn Custom Menswear - Nancy Paul

Dennis Electric, Inc. - 31 years

PRO Clean

Legacy Transit Lines, LLC

Marvin’s Building Maintenance Co., Inc. - 31 years

Rockline Industries

Relocation Services of Arkansas

Saving Grace, Inc.

Tortilleria El Palomino / El Rinconcito Restaurant

21-30 YEARS

Schlotzsky’s/Cinnabon

VFW Post 3031

DesignWorks

Steve’s Plumbing, LLC

Walter’s Boot & Shoe Repair

Kinco Constructors, LLC

Synergy Realty Group, LLC

New Hope Boarding & Grooming

Taco Bell

1 YEAR

Rainbow Cycle and Marine, Inc.

Wachter Inc.

Adult Day NWA

Sharp’s Show of War Eagle

D & A Roadside Service

Southwestern Sales Company

6-10 YEARS

State Farm Insurance - Alan Bauer

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, PLLC

Warren Family Chiropractic

Visiting Angels of NWA

Belle Journée Spa

Woodland Research Northwest

Benton County Gun Works

Workman’s Travel Center Lowell / The Ozark Mountain Grill

Opera in the Ozarks

Annual Chamber Picnic June 12 | Be Our Guest!

Due to COVID-19, the Picnic will be held at the Chamber’s Baggett-Trammel Conference

routine cleaning of all surfaces and supplies.

Each year, Chamber members provide

Chamber’s friends and family. Come enjoy some delicious food and have some fun with

Room in downtown Rogers this year instead

hours of community service, give discounts

of Ward Nail Park in Lowell as it has been in

on goods needed for Chamber programs and

the past. Attendees may sign up for one of six

donate everything from snacks to door prizes

is required. To safeguard against community

20-minute time slots and must exit the room

for Chamber events.

spread, all Chamber events currently scheduled

after the 20 minutes have expired. Chamber

The Chamber staff would like to show its

your Chamber staff!

There is no fee to attend but registration

are subject to being postponed and/or

staff will be following all safety precautions

gratitude for all of these little things (and big

cancelled with new dates and times to be

including the wearing of masks, gloves and

things, too) and express appreciation to the

announced later.

24

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 0

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.

Participants of Events, Meetings & Gatherings To safeguard against community spread, all Chamber events currently scheduled are subject to being postponed and/or cancelled with new dates and times to be announced later. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidelines for community mitigation strategies to limit the spread of the coronavirus which include recommendations for “social distancing” - a conscious effort to reduce close contact between people and the community spread of the virus. In the spirit of doing the right thing and with an abundance of care around public health concerns for the coronavirus, the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce has postponed upcoming events, meetings and other gatherings. The health and safety of you and your families are our number one priority. We will reevaluate the situation weekly and keep you informed about additional postponements as we learn more information.

With this in mind, see some of our events below with notes about ways to attend either virtually or with a note about postponement. Be sure to check RogersLowell.com, review our eNewsletters (Monday Memo and Calendar at a Glance), and follow us on social media for updates about our events and meetings as well as developments that might affect business in Northwest Arkansas.

EVERY WEDNESDAY IN JUNE

Presented By | Printova Signs & Graphics

SECOND 2 WEEKS OF JUNE

JUNE 12

Presented By | Arvest Bank

Each year, Chamber members provide hours

Join us online for Downtown Rogers VIRTUAL Art on

of community service, give discounts on goods

If you are looking to connect to businesses in

the Bricks Art Walk. National Pet Appreciation Week

needed for programs and donate for Chamber

Northwest Arkansas, join us online for this virtual

is June 7 to 20 so we chose the theme “All Creatures

events. The Chamber staff would like to show its

networking event while sipping coffee from home.

Great & Small.” We have invited artists from

gratitude for all our members do and express

throughout the region to share art that represents

appreciation to the Chamber’s friends and family.

pets and wildlife or other creatures in nature.

Come enjoy some delicious food and have some

June Host Sponsor | Evans Go Green

fun with your Chamber staff!

POSTPONED | NEW DATE TBD Presented By |

7 Brew Coffee and Aloft Rogers Bentonville June Host Sponsor |

Bancorp South

NEW DATE | SEPT. 24, 2020

NEXT DATE | JULY 15, 2020

Presented by |

This interactive-format program’s purpose

Great Southern Bank

is to inform members, prospects, and new

Host Sponsor |

representatives of all the benefits of their

Telecomp

membership investment, explain how to best utilize

Mix and mingle with other Northwest Arkansas

the Chamber’s programs and staff, and review all

business professionals and find out what other

of the work the Chamber does behind the scenes

businesses have to offer. It’s a great way to make

to make Rogers, Lowell, and all of Northwest

new contacts, generate business leads and find

Arkansas an ideal place to live, work, and play.

new vendors.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2020

25

Check www.RogersLowell.com Often for Updates and Information on Meetings & Events

We are dedicated to getting as much information out as possible, both about the COVID-19 situation as well as our policies regarding events and our calendar. Thank you for your patience as we continue to work with our vendors, local officials, and everyone involved in the production of our events to set schedules moving forward throughout the year.

WE ARE OPEN CUSTOMIZE YOUR COPY TO CONNECT WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS NEW HOURS • NEW SERVICES • UPDATES

YOUR LOGO

Changing circumstances call for special signage Available at dymarkprinting.com • "OPEN" Signs • Floor Graphics • Window Clings • CDC Instructional Flyers