Chamber Voice Newsletter | June 2021 by Rogers Lowell Chamber

June 2021 | Vol 16 Issue 6

Chamber Leading the Path to Recovery

Over the past year, our business community has proven to be resilient and played a crucial role in combatting the pandemic from shutdown and survival to reopening safely. Most recently, businesses have been navigating unprecedented challenges of the recovery in progress. As the pathway to economic recovery unfolds, outcomes from the Chamber’s mission-work are helping our community recover more quickly. This month’s cover story features some of our recent work.

See Story on Page 4

W HAT ’ S IN TH IS I SSUE ? 3 �� Chamber Staff & Board of Directors 4 �� Chamber Leading the Path to Recovery Continued 7 �� Chamber Presents Healthcare Workers with Spirit Award 8 �� 2021 Small Business Council – The Voice of Small Business 9 �� Small Business Council Launching FAQ Video Series 9 �� Chamber Selects Toni Luetjen as Ambassador of the Year 10 �� TRUE TRAIN Program Important to Chamber’s Mission-Work 11 �� Be Our Guest at Annual Chamber Picnic June 11 12 �� Legislative Redistricting and the Art of Political Fortune Telling 14 �� Ritter Communications Completes $28 Million Investment to Expand 100% Fiber Internet to Northwest Arkansas Businesses

15 �� Federal Communication Commission Enrolling Qualified Households into Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

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

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16 �� 2021 Rogers Cycling Festival Offers Full Day of Experiences 17 �� Visit Rogers Promotes The Power of Travel at May Tourism Talk and NWATMP 18 �� Stop Employment Fraud and Get Arkansans Back to Work 20 �� NWACC Workforce and Economic Development’s Innovative Educational Solutions 22 �� Expanding Arkansas Film Industry Benefits Local Business Community 24 �� Experiential Events Impacting Retailers’ Bottom Line 27 �� DTR Market’s 2021 Season Now Underway 27 �� Northwest Arkansas Fireworks Displays 28 �� Ribbon Cuttings | April 2021 28 �� Membership Tips | How to Register for Events 29 �� New Members | April 2021 30 �� Membership Renewals | April 2021 31 �� Chamber Business Connect & 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

Nick Smith Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com

Kelly Parker, TMP Director of Marketing & Communications | Visit Rogers kelly@rogerslowell.com

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

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

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

Luke Wiggins Director of Sales | Visit Rogers luke@rogerslowell.com

Katie Burns Vice President of Operations katie@rogerslowell.com

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

Loretta Gomez Finance Manager loretta@rogerslowell.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jacque Eakins Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com

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

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

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

Justin Freeman Marketing Communications Specialist justin@rogerslowell.com

Ashley Matsumura Customer Relations Manager ashley@rogerslowell.com

B OARD OF DIREC TORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman of the Board | Angie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker’s Furniture & Appliances Chairman-Elect | Erin Kiefer, Assembled Products Treasurer | Mike Power, First Security Bank Past Chairman | Greg Fogle, Nabholz Construction President/CEO | Raymond Burns RIDC President | Jerry Vest, Regions Bank

2020 DIRECTORS

Leah Acoach, FHB Ventures Danny Beck, Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield Joe Donaldson, Sam’s Furniture Brad Hicks, J.B. Hunt Transport Inc. Stennett Thompkins, AAA Insurance David Vaden, Ernst & Young LLP

2021 DIRECTORS

Tom Allen, Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners Ron Branscum, Strategic Business Consulting, Inc. David Kimball, Benchmark Group Jerra Nalley Tanya Smith, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Melissa Turpin, Honeycomb Kitchen Shop

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS

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 Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp. Sandy Edwards, Crystal Bridges Museum David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade

Cathy Foraker, AT&T David Foster, APAC-Central, Inc. Bradley Hardin, AEP/SWEPCO Ron Hayes, First United Methodist Church Dan Hendrix, Arkansas World Trade Center Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers Tron Hodges, Black Hills Energy

DIVISION CHAIRS

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

Tom Hopper, TallChamps, LLC Corry Hull, BHC Insurance 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

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

John-Michael Scurio, George’s Eric Pianalto, Mercy of Northwest Arkansas Gregg Stanfill, Arvest Bank Chris Sultemeier, Retired Walmart Dick Trammel, Chairman Emeritus Josh Vasquez, United Bank Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods

AUDIT COMMITTEE David Vaden Ron Branscum Knight Weis

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...Continued from Page 1

GROWING BUSINESS. A C T I V AT I N G L E A D E R S . BUILDING COMMUNIT Y.

hether in times of prosperity or times of crisis, you can trust that your Chamber is leading the way to grow business, activate leaders and build community so we all emerge stronger, together. From the beginning of the COVID19 health crisis to today, we have been your trusted source for essential information and resources for business assistance and safety guidelines. Now, as the pathway to economic recovery unfolds, outcomes from our mission-work are critical. We are continuing to push forward on our five, key mission-work areas: Economic Development, Small Business & Entrepreneurial Development, Community Development, Destination Marketing & Management, and Advocacy & Government Affairs.

#EconDevWeek, #economicdevelopment and #EDW2021. Governor Asa Hutchinson also supported the effort with a Proclamation. The goals were to increase community awareness of local programs and development projects that contribute to jobs creation, advance career development opportunities, and improve our communities’ quality of life. The Rogers-Lowell Area continues to be a great place for businesses and residents to thrive. There is well over $60 million in private development occurring within our two cities, not including public funded projects like road construction and quality of life amenities. Rogers leads Benton County in job growth and population growth. Benton County leads the nation in wage growth and the average household income in Rogers has grown by over $8,000 in three years.

MISSION-WORK | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS EMPLOYMENT SHOWCASE (ONLINE)

Our Economic Development mission work attracts, retains and expands business and industry. This helps grow the tax base to fund education, public safety and infrastructure. We are helping to create jobs and career opportunities by developing the talent pipeline required for world class businesses to thrive.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WEEK The Chamber celebrated Economic Development Week May 9-15 via a social media campaign using these hashtags:

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The Chamber’s Northwest Arkansas Employment Showcase has been featured on RogersLowell.com and promoted in local media since April. This free, online event has been a success connecting job seekers with local businesses to learn about career opportunities and available jobs. Based on our members’ feedback, the Chamber has extended this opportunity through June and opened it up to include non-member participation helping the business community with hiring needs during the recovery.

HOSPITALITY OUTREACH | RESTAURANT REVITALIZATION FUND In March, the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 created the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) to provide grants for restaurants sustaining financial losses due to the pandemic. The Chamber has been helping the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) communicate details to local restaurants the past two months. The SBA will be administering the program and issuing federal rules, regulations and applications before the grant funds are distributed. Read the National Restaurant Association’s FAQ.

MISSION-WORK | SMALL BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT This is another key focus area of the Chamber’s missionwork. We curate essential resources for starting, running and growing business. Our work opens doors to new connections for small businesspeople and entrepreneurs through educational programs and networking events. We listen to our Small Business Council who guides us as the Voice of Small Business. Our work also includes advocating for business-friendly legislation by representing small business needs to our legislators.

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK The Chamber celebrated Small Business Week May 2-8. Small businesses account for half of America’s workforce, and more new jobs come from small business than any other source. The Chamber showcased various small businesses throughout the area in social media with the hashtag #SmallBusinessWeek. During April, the Small Business Council visited local member businesses to learn more about what they do and help the Chamber write “business spotlights” recognizing the vital roles these businesses play in our local economy. These social media posts were featured during Small Business Week.

SMALL BUSINESS TOOLKIT Starting, running and growing a business is not easy. About two-thirds of businesses survive two years in business, half of all businesses will survive five years, and one-third will survive ten. The Chamber launched new content in its Small Business Toolkit during April and May. This is our free online resource that provides helpful resources and information with links to articles other information on relevant topics.

CHAMBER TO COMMUNITY (C2C) WEBINAR LIBRARY Early in the pandemic, the Chamber conducted its Road to Recovery Survey. In response to our members’ survey feedback, we launched a new Back to Business NWA online professional development webinar series with subject matter experts throughout our community. These were delivered in online sessions and are still available on demand. w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

MISSION-WORK | COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT NATIONAL TRAVEL AND TOURISM WEEK The Chamber’s mission-work for Community Development helps to build a vibrant, safe and welcoming community. We activate a diverse generation of business and community leaders and prepare them to face future regional challenges. Read more about our Leadership Programs. For 45 years, the Chamber has honored outstanding high school students in the Rogers-Lowell Area during its Academic Awards ceremonies. During April, we held the Academic Awards and recognized educators for their excellence in education.

ACADEMIC AWARDS EDUCATORS OF THE YEAR This year, the Chamber presented 1,181 students with Academic Awards, the most that have ever been presented. Three teachers were selected for the 2020-21 Educator of the Year: Wesley Faith, Joe Mathias Elementary; Rebekah Mann, Elmwood Middle School; and Lea Ann Moss, Rogers Heritage High School. The Chamber also recognized during the 99th Annual Celebration of Business & Community in April all the Rogers-Lowell Area teachers, volunteers, and support staff in our school district with the Dick Trammel Good Neighbor Award (Rogers community’s highest honor) and the Elbert S. Graham/Elza Tucker Award (Lowell community’s highest honor). They were the heroes of our community during the pandemic. Watch the video here.

MISSION-WORK | DESTINATION MARKETING & MANAGEMENT The Chamber’s mission-work in Destination Marketing & Management is branded Visit Rogers. We activate quality experiences for both visitors and residents and market our destination by targeting leisure, meetings, sports and relocation markets to visit and conduct their business here. Our work cultivates tourism to create economic and community development opportunities. Building a place people want to visit also builds a place where people want to live and work. It all starts with a visit.

& TOURISM TALK

The 38th annual National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) was May 2-8. Nationally, it recognized the Power of Travel and the critical role the travel industry will play in bringing back our vibrant communities, restoring the economy, rebuilding our hospitality workforce, and reconnecting America. Visit Rogers participated in NTTW by highlighting the Power of Travel on social media throughout the week, hosting the Northwest Arkansas Travel Meeting Professionals Q2 meeting, and hosting the annual Visit Rogers’ Annual Tourism Talk at the Walmart AMP May 6. The theme was Power of Travel: Defining Northwest Arkansas’s Way Forward. It featured two panel discussions on “Navigating Forward” and “Rebuilding Communities” with a special presentation from Ryan Thompson from Miles Partnership, industry experts who work closely with destination marketing organizations, including Visit Rogers.

MISSION WORK | ADVOCACY & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS The Chamber serves as the regional link between business and government to ensure that the Voice of Business is represented and heard. We engage the community in the political process from contacting a legislator to registering to vote. We also work with our members to be their voice for influencing positive legislative outcomes for business-driven, public policy.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS REGIONAL LEGISLATIVE AGENDA Some of the successful legislation passed as part of the Northwest Arkansas Regional Legislative Agenda at this year’s session included: Class Protection (SB622); Tax Measures for Business; DACA Teacher Certification and Bilingual Education; and ARHOME funding. Learn more details about each at the Voice of Business Blog.

Learn more about our mission efforts at www.RogersLowell.com

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Chamber Presents Healthcare Workers with Spirit Award

he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce recently visited Northwest Health in Bentonville and Mercy Hospital in Rogers to present local healthcare workers with the Rogers-Lowell Spirit Award, which was announced during the Chamber’s 99th Annual Celebration of Business & Community April 8.

The Spirit Award is given annually to a local organization, business

or other group for its significant contribution to the betterment of our community. Click here to watch the awards segment of the 99th Annual Celebration.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Raymond Burns delivers the Spirit Award to the COVID Unit at Mercy NWA.

Nurses and administrators from Northwest Health accept the Spirit Award.

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2021 Small Business Council – The Voice of Small Business

he Small Business Council (SBC) of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer committee that serves as the voice of small business to the Chamber. The SBC regularly interacts with members and provides feedback and input to the Chamber to ensure that our programming and mission-work are beneficial to our business community. These volunteers own, work at, or primarily work with the small business community. Their duties include providing topic recommendations for Chamber-2-Community (C2C) education courses, hosting the Chamber Tutorial, conducting member visits for special promotions such as Small Business Week, filming video segments for the Chamber’s Voice of Business video channel, and nominating businesses to be recognized by the Chamber each quarter. The work of the Small Business Council is vital and greatly appreciated by the Chamber. Applications for the 2022 Small Business Council will open in October with the term beginning in January. If you are interested in applying or have additional questions, you can contact Steve Cox at steve@rogerslowell.com

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Small Business Council Launching FAQ Video Series

he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce regularly surveys and visits with members to receive feedback and guidance on programming and overall Chamber mission work. This has a resulted in a list of frequently asked questions regarding a variety of topics related to website log-in issues, member benefits, event registration, and many more. Handling each question individually can be time-consuming, so a new solution is on the way later this month. Beginning in June, the Chamber is launching a new FAQ video series. Members of the Small Business Council (SBC) will appear on camera to provide answers to help our members and prospects. This series will be ongoing as the SBC serves as the voice of small business for Chamber members and addresses

additional questions as they arrive from future surveys and member visits. Look for the first video in the series to launch in midJune on the Chamber Voice of Business Video Channel and if you have a question you would like to see answered, email steve@rogerslowell.com.

Chamber Selects Toni Luetjen as Ambassador of the Year

Toni Luetjen, Ambassador of the Year

he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce has honored Toni Luetjen with the Ambassador of the Year Award for her service in 2020. Toni Luetjen - #ToyotaToni – is the Director of Marketing for Steve Landers Toyota NWA, a full-service Toyota dealership in Rogers that also specializes in preowned vehicles of all makes and models. Toni has received specialized marketing certifications, has 20+ years of management experience, and is a professional in customer service, networking, and communications. Toni joined the ambassador committee as a way of broadening her network and supporting the local business community in Northwest Arkansas. Her favorite aspect of being an Ambassador is helping other companies prosper by referring them new business while personally building on that relationship and upholding a Giver’s Gain philosophy. In addition to being an Ambassador, Toni is a member of the Chamber’s Member Engagement Committee, participates in the Chamber’s Central Referral Connection, volunteers for the Chamber golf tournaments, and has previously sponsored Business After Hours. Toni is a member of the Razorback Chapter of BNI and a committee member for Will Golf 4 Kids/Color of Hope for 20 years, supporting Arkansas Children’s Northwest. w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

Mission-Work | Community Development

TRUE TRAIN Program Important to Chamber’s Mission-Work

ne of the Chamber’s five key focus areas for its mission-work is Community Development. We activate a diverse next generation of business and community leaders. We champion Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and we engage the right people at the right time to improve our quality of life with quality of place initiatives. We announced in October that the Chamber was selected to be a part of TRAIN Cohort 2020, a TRUE Northwest Arkansas Initiative that seeks to build early leaders for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) work in the region. The TRUE TRAIN Program provides an 8-month training opportunity for 20 organizations to increase their capacity to integrate and apply a DEI framework throughout their work. The Chamber (along with the 19 other organizations) recently graduated from this program and now will build on the DEI processes learned and start to implement changes into our organization, making us a more inclusive organization.

MEMBERS OF THE 2020 COHORT • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Arisa Health, Inc. Arkansas Arts & Fashion Forum Arts Live Theatre Benton County Government Boys & Girls Club of Benton County The Jones Center for Families NWA Ballet Theatre NWA Land Trust Partners for Better Housing Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Children’s Advocacy Center of Benton County Girls on the Run of Northwest Arkansas Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce Mount Sequoyah Center, Inc. Fayetteville Art Alliance The Salvation Army-Northwest Arkansas Area Command Teen Action and Support Center United Way of Northwest Arkansas Westark Area Council, Inc. – Boy Scouts of America Women of Oz NWA

BUILDING A VIBRANT, DIVERSE AND COHESIVE COMMUNITY TRUE Northwest Arkansas Initiative builds leaders through peer learning opportunities and coaching sessions with experts. This program fits perfectly into our Chamber’s Community Development mission-work by helping us build a vibrant, diverse and cohesive community that embraces togetherness and welcomes all. Being selected to this program also helps us stay up to date on the latest best practices to empower the next generation of community leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary for championing DEI across the region. TRAIN Cohort 2020 participants represented partners from multiple sectors, including nonprofit organizations, government agencies, public institutions, and faith-based organizations.

“We were very lucky to be selected to participate in this cohort and learned a lot about DEI through the last 8 months. Programs like this one from the TRUE Northwest Arkansas Initiative bring people with different thoughts, ideas, backgrounds, and experiences together. The Chamber’s participation furthered our knowledge of DEI and is helping us influence positive outcomes in the region as we confront today’s challenges facing not only small businesses in our region but globally as well. Ultimately, we believe that DEI is all about becoming a cohesive and connected community where people want to visit, live, invest, work, and play. Our participation is a commitment to that.”

– Ross Phillips

Vice President of Community Development Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

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Be Our Guest at Annual Chamber Picnic June 11

ll Chamber members, volunteers, committee members, board members and special friends are invited to the annual Chamber Picnic on Friday, June 11 at Ward Nail Park in Lowell. Each year, Chamber members provide hours of community service, give discounts on goods needed for Chamber programs and donate everything from snacks to door prizes for Chamber events.

The Chamber’s staff would like to show its gratitude for all these little things (and big things, too) and express appreciation to the Chamber’s friends and family. Come enjoy some delicious food and have some fun with your Chamber staff! There is no fee to attend. Please RSVP for the picnic before June 4 by registering here.

Donate Door Prizes for 2021 Chamber Events Free and Open to Members Did You Know? Donating door prizes for the Chamber's events is an effective strategy to gain awareness of your business and showcase your products and services! If you are interested in donating door prizes for 2021, come to this members-only Door Prize Drive June 1 through 30.

We're Making Donating Door Prizes Convenient Bring all of the door prizes that you wish to donate for events with you. We'll earmark and store them, and ensure they are given away for you at the events you choose. It's a convenient way to donate your door prizes for the remainder of the year all at once and a great opportunity to get your business name in front of event attendees.

This is an opportunity to market your business at 50+ Events in 2021!

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Mission-Work | Advocacy & Government Affairs

Legislative Redistricting and the Art of Political Fortune Telling

ne of the Chambers five key focus areas for its mission-work is Advocacy and Government Affairs. We serve as the regional link between business and government to ensure the Voice of Business is represented and heard. We engage the community in the political process from contacting a

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legislator to registering to vote. By working together, our voices influence positive legislation outcomes for business-driven, public policy. This article examines the upcoming legislative redistricting and insights so you may influence districts being created with your business interests and concerns in mind.

AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHAPE THE NWA POLITICAL LANDSCAPE If you had an opportunity to insure how your business was going to perform and grow over the next decade, would you take it? Without a doubt you would jump at that opportunity. Now, if you had an opportunity to select the people and shape the House and Senate districts that comprise the Arkansas General Assembly for the next decade, would you take it? It does not matter if you are self-employed, work for a large employer, or a small employer in Northwest Arkansas, it is in your best interests to take this opportunity to shape the political landscape of Northwest Arkansas for the next decade. Every ten years the Arkansas State Board of Apportionment, which is comprised of the Governor, Attorney General, and the Secretary of State, receives the Census data collected for the State of Arkansas and uses it to redraw state legislative districts for the Arkansas State House of Representatives and the State Senate. As the population increases and the demographics change in Benton and Washington County, so does the importance of who you select to represent your interests and send to the State Capitol.

It is anticipated the official Census figures will not be made available to the State for redistricting purposes until September. The Legislature will come back into session at that time to draw the four Congressional Districts in Arkansas. The Board of Apportionment will then begin the process of drawing the new legislative districts.

POPULATION GROWTH MEANS NEW SEATS IN THE HOUSE AND SENATE Due to the population growth over the last decade, Benton and Washington counties should pick up new seats in the House and Senate. These new districts will not have an incumbent from either party and will be wide open

July 13, 2021 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m

for candidates to run. The Northwest Arkansas Regional Business Community has begun an effort to recruit and encourage people in Washington and Benton Counties to consider running for these newly created seats. Decisions are made and policy is created in every legislative session that can have a positive or negative impact to your business. Whether it is taxes, regulations, the adoption of legislation that affects your ability to compete in an increasing global marketplace, develop customers, or attract new workers to your business and to our community. The decisions made in Little Rock during each legislative session are important to the long-term health of your business.

Supply Chain Hall of Fame 5111 W. J.B. Hunt Drive Rogers, AR 72758

The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to keeping our members and community informed on recent developments and is bringing you The Spotlight Series: Transportation Roundtable.

CALL TO ACTION As a member of the business community in Northwest Arkansas we encourage you to contact the Board of Apportionment as Redistricting approaches. Express to the Governor, the Attorney General, and the Secretary of State that any new legislative districts they create should represent your interests and concerns. If you have questions, please email Jon Moran, SVP of Government Affairs, at jon@rogerslowell.com.

Jon Moran

SVP of Government Affairs

In-Person Event $15 Registration Fee

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

This roundtable discussion will include Andrew Branch with Northwest Arkansas National Airport, Matt Crafton with Crafton Tull, and a representative from the Arkansas Department of Transportation. The Spotlight Series is a new program that brings the right people together at the right time to spark innovation, inspire ideas and align our community around common goals. We’ll convene each quarter with a different theme to spotlight progress and illuminate issues that are opportunities to growing business, activating high-impact leaders and building a strong and diverse place to visit, live, invest, work and play. * TO SA FE G UARD AGAI N S T COM M U N IT Y SP RE AD, ALL CHAM BER E VE NT S CURRE NTLY SCHE D U L E D ARE S U BJ E C T TO BEI N G P OS TP ON ED AN D/ OR C AN CE LLE D W ITH NE W DATE S A ND TIM E S TO BE AN N O U N C ED L ATER. # KEEP ROGERSSAF E

Learn More at www.RogersLowell.com and Register Today w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

R Ritter Communications Completes

$28 Million

Investment to Expand 100% Fiber Internet to Northwest Arkansas Businesses

itter Communications, a leading regional broadband provider headquartered in Jonesboro, has invested $28 million to bring 100 percent fiber internet services and advanced cloud solutions to Northwest Arkansas businesses in Springdale, Lowell, Fayetteville, Rogers, and Bentonville. In the last 24 months, Ritter Communications has invested $60 million to bring high speed 100 percent fiber internet service to 18 previously underserved communities in Arkansas. “Ritter Communications knows that access to fast, reliable broadband internet is a necessity for successful business operations, and we are ready to meet that demand in the Northwest Arkansas business community,” said Ritter Communications CEO Alan Morse. “With signals that travel at the speed of light, our 100% fiber high-speed internet connectivity will give Springdale, Lowell, Fayetteville, Rogers, and Bentonville businesses another competitive edge. As a local Arkansas company with a new regional office presence in Rogers, Ritter Communications is bringing our Right by You pledge to NWA. That pledge purposefully has a double meaning; first, we are committed to operating as a local company right in your neighborhood and supporting your communities, and second, that we always strive to do the right thing for our customers as we deliver the most advanced, reliable services alongside an unmatched customer experience.”

RITTER COMMUNICATIONS OFFERS CUSTOM CLOUD SOLUTIONS Ritter Communications offers XGS-PON fiber service, which delivers speeds up to 10 gigabits per second of 100 percent fiber connectivity. A specialized account management and customer support team will be stationed locally, assisting users with all services. The full suite of telecommunications services provided by Ritter Communications offers not only connectivity but also custom cloud

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solutions, giving business customers access to the new state-of-the-art Ritter Communications Data Technology Center. Ritter Communications began the multi-million-dollar expansion project construction in Northwest Arkansas in July of 2020. Five Northwest Arkansas markets will be fiber-connected beginning with Springdale in April, Lowell and Fayetteville in June, Rogers in July and Bentonville later in the year. Services will become available in each community incrementally as fiber build “zones” are completed.

IMPROVING THE RAZORBACK REGIONAL GREENWAY To celebrate the expansion of services to Northwest Arkansas businesses, Ritter Communications is donating $50,000 to fund improvements along the Razorback Regional Greenway, a popular 40-mile long biking and walking trail connecting many of the communities in the region. “Much like the critical connections our company provides, the Razorback Regional Greenway is known for connecting seven major cities in the Northwest Arkansas region,” Morse said. “Ritter Communications is proud to contribute to improving the Greenway, because it is a tremendous quality-of-life and business development asset for the Northwest Arkansas area, and has become a community connection to healthy living, the outdoors and to friends and families.” “We are grateful for the generous donation from Ritter Communications. The $50,000 commitment will enable construction of between seven and nine new rest areas along the Razorback Regional Greenway,” said Patsy Christie, Chairman of the Northwest Arkansas Razorback Greenway Alliance. “The new rest areas will give bikers and walkers a place to rest without disrupting traffic. These additions to the Razorback Regional Greenway will contribute to the overall safety of the trail, a top priority for our many visitors.” For additional information visit www.RitterCommunications.com.

Federal Communication Commission Enrolling Qualified Households into Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

he Federal Communication Commission (FCC) began enrolling qualified households into their Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB) on May 12, 2021. This program helps qualified households with discounts on broadband service up to $50 per month. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer or tablet from a participating provider if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price. Congress has allocated $3.2 billion to fund the EBB

program. This money will be spent nationwide and the Arkansas Department of Commerce is encouraging Arkansans to visit www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit and see the qualification. The public can use the same website to enroll for the benefits. The EBB program will end when the funds run out or six months after the Department of Health and Human Services declares an end to the COVID-19 health emergency, whichever is sooner. This is an important benefit for Arkansans and the state can only receive what qualified citizens will apply for through the website.

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2021 Rogers Cycling Festival Offers Full Day of Experiences

he 2021 Rogers Cycling Festival (RCF) presented by Ozark Dermatology is a great way to get out, stay active, and spend time with family while enjoying the beautiful scenery, roads, and trails of Rogers. The RCF is a family friendly event coming Saturday, July 17. Participants are invited to check-in from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. coinciding with the DTR Market that morning at the new Railyard Park in Downtown Rogers, 101 E. Cherry St. Before riding, be sure to check out the many booths set up featuring local businesses and grab complimentary merchandise.

ABOUT THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL Every part of the ride is on trails and sidewalks at this year’s RCF. The Railyard Loop Ride, a 15+ mile ride, loops the entire city of Rogers and participants can ride the whole route or drop in at the Mercy Trailhead for an 8-mile ride. Riders are encouraged to track their progress by using the Strava app. View the loop here.

RIDE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR NONPROFIT CYCLING CAUSES Tickets are free for those 10 and under and just $10 for adults, and a portion of the

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proceeds from the event benefits nonprofit cycling causes in Northwest Arkansas. Each registered rider will receive a prize pack for participating that includes a medal, headband, and a ticket to “Rider Village” that night, including a concert ticket.

WHAT IS RIDER VILLAGE? Rider Village will be located at the Butterfield Stage in Downtown Rogers and is sponsored by Crossland Heavy Contractors. It features a variety of experiences to relax and have fun after a day of riding in the RCF. The City of Rogers will also present its 2021 Concert Series, “Railyard Live” featuring the band The Uncrowned Kings. Attendees will enjoy various food trucks, drinks, and other entertaining activities as the community comes together after the RCF to celebrate our newly renovated downtown.

BUTTERFIELD STAGE LIVE PERFORMANCES COMING IN JUNE “Join us at the brand-new Butterfield Stage in Downtown Rogers every Friday and Saturday from June through September for live music performed by some of the most talented artists across the region,” said City

of Rogers Arts & Culture Coordinator Justin Pounds. “General admission tickets are free. You can bring your own lawn chair or blanket to set up on the lawn, and limited table seating is available for purchase. Tickets for all events can be purchased at www.railyardlive.com.” Chamber RCF partners such as Geico NW Arkansas, Benchmark Group, Arkansas Blue, Arvest, GoGo Squeez, Hight Jackson Associates, Java Dudes Coffee Co., T-Mobile and Glad will also be on hand welcoming riders and providing surprises throughout the day. BikeNWA will offer a kid-friendly obstacle course for youth of all ages.

SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE Not a rider? Sponsoring the 2021 Rogers Cycling Festival 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 ride participants and be recognized by the Chamber. Contact the Chamber’s Member Services Team at (479) 636-1240 or email MemberServices@RogersLowell.com for sponsorship details.

Visit Rogers Promotes

The Power of Travel at May Tourism Talk and NWATMP

ourism professionals gathered at the Walmart AMP on Thursday, May 6 for Tourism Talk and to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week. The event was hosted by Visit Rogers and the Northwest Arkansas Travel and Meeting Professionals Network (NWATMP) in the AMP’s new Choctaw Plaza space. Over 100 attendees turned out to celebrate The Power of Travel and define Northwest Arkansas’s Way Forward.

PROSPERING IN A POSTPANDEMIC WORLD Panel discussion Navigating Forward detailed how events, meetings and the restaurant industry will move into and prosper in a post-pandemic world. Shelley Hodgkinson, Senior Director of Event Solutions for Walmart, told the group “As we come out of the Pandemic - whenever that maybe…the Walmart Event Solutions Team is really looking forward to getting back to face-to-face meetings, while still continuing with virtual elements. We feel a

hybrid approach will be the make-up of our meetings for some time to come.”

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY PLAY VITAL ROLE IN COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION The Rebuilding Communities panel explained how tourism and local destination marketing organizations play a vital role in community revitalization. Arkansas Tourism Director Travis Napper said “This pandemic has been especially tough for tourism and hospitality; however, it has put tourism and hospitality in a spotlight for all the right reasons. We are a public good, we are quality of life, and we are an economic driver.” Ryan Thompson from Miles Partnership bridged the gap between the two sessions displaying how the power of place branding is vital to the recovery of our communities.

TOURISM TALK PROMOTES REGIONAL COOPERATION Independent Meeting Planner Cheri Jones, CMP, said “There was so much information packed into the educational pieces of the Tourism Talk! The commitment of tourism officials from Rogers, Bentonville, Fayetteville, Bella Vista and Springdale to regional cooperation was evident. Yes, they work individually for their city, but they also work collectively to bring meetings and events to Northwest Arkansas. The energy they bring as a group would definitely make me want to come to Northwest Arkansas.”

“The message was delivered loud and clear – the recovery has begun for tourism in Rogers and Northwest Arkansas, and destination leaders are rebuilding our communities today to meet the demands of the future.”

– J.R. Shaw

Executive Director | Visit Rogers

Follow Visit Rogers on Social Media: w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

A Message from the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services

Stop Employment Fraud and Get Arkansans Back to Work

he Arkansas Division of Workforce Services (ADWS) released a letter in May detailing its efforts to identify and stop unemployment fraud and encourage Arkansans to get back to work. ADWS is conducting weekly random audits of work search records for those who remain eligible for regular state unemployment insurance. To prevent a claimant from benefiting from attempts to defraud the unemployment system, ADWS must be notified. Employers are encouraged to report any suspicious activity that could be related to unemployment fraud or a potential disqualification.The letter that ADWS is sending to employers is on the next page.

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Dear Employer, The number one topic of conversation among employers is the difficulty you are having filling job vacancies. It’s a concern for us too and we want to help. As your state workforce agency, we are doing everything we can to identify and stop unemployment fraud and encourage Arkansans to get back to work. Governor Hutchinson has directed the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services to end Arkansas’s participation in federal pandemic unemployment programs effective June 27, 2021. For those who remain eligible for regular state unemployment insurance, DWS is conducting weekly random audits of work search records. Failure by the claimant to submit accurate documentation of job contacts can result in disqualification and denial of benefits. Some employers have reported individuals who contact them to ask for specific information to put on their Work Search Contact Record but express no interest in applying for a job. We assure you, ADWS can prevent a claimant from benefiting from attempts to defraud, but in order to act, we must be notified! That’s where you come in! You are encouraged to report any suspicious activity that could be related to unemployment fraud or a potential disqualification, even if you do not know whether the individual is claiming unemployment benefits. If you provide the information, we’ll do the rest! Let us know when an applicant: • Refuses offers of suitable work. • Fails to appear for an interview. • Fails to appear for/pass a drug screen. • Fails to return to work when recalled. • Fails to return employer calls after inquiring about a job. • Deliberately presents oneself in a negative way to avoid job offers. • Negotiates hours and pay to stay below the maximum allowed to continue receiving benefits.

REPORTING IS EASY! You can report to DWS one of two ways: 1. Tax 21- Log in to Tax 21 using the second option you see on the Tax 21 homepage. Once you log in, choose options 3, 4, 5, or 6, depending on the type of report you are submitting. To report anything that does not fall into a category with a specific form, please use option 3. Report Unemployment Insurance Fraud. 2. Refusal of Work Form- This is an online form that you can fill out and submit directly through the DWS website. Employers can post an unlimited number of jobs for free on Arkansas JobLink, the state’s online job board! With an employer account, you can manage job posts, create a company profile, save searches for qualified candidates, and more. All ADWS clients are registered in Arkansas JobLink, giving employers access to a large pool of candidates who are actively searching for work! Visit www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov/employer to get started today! We hope this email is helpful to you as an Arkansas employer. Thank you for your time and cooperation. Sincerely, Arkansas Division of Workforce Services Administration

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

NWACC Workforce and Economic Development’s Innovative Educational Solutions

rganizations of all sizes have faced considerable challenges in every sector that cannot be addressed in a one-size fits all solution planning session. The complexity of human and socioeconomic-centered differences calls for a myriad of thought-leadership and innovative, principled solutions reflective of sustained efforts and outcomes. NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) has partnered with local businesses over the past thirty years to establish training that is customized and specific to the needs of businesses to support technical skills and employee development. A key difference for NWACC’s business customers is the one-onone personalized attention to uncover training gaps and explore solutions that match the current needs of your employees. Using industry experience gained from over seventy years among its workforce employees and dedicated industry partners, they connect the dots to sustainable solutions to maximize your workforce goals. Operational training for frontline and executive leaders creates a win-win for current and future generations seeking to maintain and expand business in the region.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT – RELEVANT SOLUTIONS FOR INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES NWACC’s Project Management Professional (PMP) Exam Preparation courses continue to be a highly sought-after solution to individuals and businesses aiming to maximize operational effectiveness throughout their organization. Project managers are in high demand across the nation with over 11,000 PMP jobs nationwide and 260 active Arkansas listings (Source: March 2021 Indeed and LinkedIn.com).

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Project management professionals provide core fundamentals of project management, leadership, accountability, and requirements to reduce roadblocks, lost time, high costs of rework, failed projects, and employee retention through improved execution of departmental and strategic goals for work output and employee safety. Below are highlights of potential outcomes with effective project managers: • 31% decrease in failed projects • 30% project delivery under budget • 21% improved productivity • Average company savings of $567K per project when executive leadership invested in effective project championing through specialized training. (Source: State of the PMO, PM Solutions, May 2010). NWACC Workforce Development provides the following training for aspiring project management professionals in general project management concepts including: • Project Characteristics • Program Differences • Subprojects • Portfolios • Various Organizational Structures and the Project Manager’s Role in Each • Key Project Management Skills (Costs, Contract Management, Teamwork, Risks, etc.) • Project Management Knowledge Areas and Process Groups • Various Project Life Cycles including Adaptive (agile) and Hybrid (predictive and agile). Learn more on how to train your team or find courses to maintain required professional development (PDU’s) by contacting traininghelp@nwacc.edu.

BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLANNING The Institute for Corporate and Public Safety at NWACC is a U.S. Department of Homeland Security/FEMA funded department that supplies emergency planning training to rural communities at no charge to participants or hosting organizations. One of those courses, Business Continuity Planning (an 8-hour, one-day, in-person training) is available at www.ruraltraining.org. It can help your organization or community answer questions to the scenarios below: • You arrive at work, and the building is no longer there. Now what? • You arrive at work, the building is there, but 25% of your workforce is missing and will be for weeks or months. Now what? • You arrive at work, the building is there, and your workforce is there, but no equipment works. Now what? • You arrive at work, the building is there, your workforce is there, and all equipment works, but you are cut off from your normal customer channels. Now what? The course walks through the plan development process touching on key points like those listed below: • Selling business continuity planning to key stakeholders • Creating a business continuity planning team • Determining organizational essential functions • Assigning roles and responsibilities • Conducting a risk and hazard analysis • Developing capability targets • Creating orders of succession and delegating authority • Reviewing plan components • Trying out your new skills and processes If you would like to learn more about this class or our other offerings, email icps@nwacc.edu. NorthWest Arkansas Community College – Workforce is ready to partner with you. View their website at www.nwacc.edu/workforce.com to ensure your organization is future-ready!

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

Expanding Arkansas Film Industry Benefits Local Business Community Film production in Northwest Arkansas has accelerated in the last 10 years through the contributions of local and national production companies. The film industry positively impacts our economy for dozens of local businesses, including catering, lodging, and transportation. The Arkansas film industry dates back 95 years and employment opportunities grow along with the industry. With over 80 films produced to date, there is a rich history of filmmaking in Arkansas.

s a Film Production Consultant for the film industry and VP of Business Development for Rockhill Studios in Fayetteville since 2017, Demara Titzer has had the opportunity to play a role in building the Northwest Arkansas film industry. “There is an extensive business side to the film industry that isn’t always obvious,” Titzer said. “It includes developing relationships with and educating our City, Chamber and Rotary teams for location support needs, and collaboration with our local film schools for our student interns. Establishing agreements that support the unique needs of a production company with hotels, locations, caterers, rental car agencies, and product placement vendors requires upfront education, management and coordination throughout the preproduction, principal photography and post-production process so that everyone has a positive and successful experience.”

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“Every film has a different story with different locations, set design, props and product needs,” she added. “Each project starts with reaching out to our partners to support those needs. My goal has been, and continues to be, to build longterm relationships within our business communities to offer opportunities for those who are passionate about filmmaking to be a part of and benefit financially from our growing film industry.”

two very short 30-minute breaks. That works out to over 800 meals during a 2-week production. Local food vendors, restaurants and catering companies have an opportunity to boost their business revenues by supporting these productions, as do hotels and short-term rentals. An added benefit to local businesses is all the meals and entertainment expenditures during cast and crew days off.

BOOSTING LOCAL BUSINESS

BENEFITS FOR DESTINATION MARKETING

The economic impact film projects have on our area are significant. They typically hire an average of 40 cast and crew for their films and around 50 percent are local hires. Cast and crew typically work very hard and long 12-hour days in all types of weather as a production does not stop and the wrap day rarely gets extended. To keep them fueled, a station is set up for snacks throughout the production. Meals are provided twice a day during

Visit Rogers, the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for the city and a division of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, welcomes and recognizes the benefits film productions can bring to a destination. “The increased awareness film brings to a destination can be priceless, and we want to provide resources, guidance and assistance to the industry ensuring that awareness is positive. Plus, the economic benefit to our businesses and communities

is real, immediate and significant”, said J. R. Shaw, Executive Director of Visit Rogers. “We play the role of convener, facilitator and go-between, putting the industry in touch with locals to bring the business to Rogers.”

offerings being launched this Summer: The Creative Arkansas Community Hub & Exchange (CACHE), and the Fayetteville Library Innovation Center. Mario Troncoso, 10-time Emmy Award winner, made an investment in the region WHY NWA? with his move here in 2020 from Austin. Northwest Arkansas offers wonderful Mario is the Director of Film and Media town square backdrops, neighborhoods Ecosystems for CACHE. Mario believes we and landscapes for film scenes. Producers need to develop programs to attract and often try to incorporate the town into their retain independent producers who can make story to add an extra layer of authenticity high-quality content faster and cheaper. and appreciation to the community that has “Developing a world-class producer’s lab, a supported them. The beautiful scenery of grant program, and a media market could our area is also featured through aerials and be a great way to develop more talent and driving scenes. provide more resources,” Mario said. To that Supporting student, emerging and end CACHE is getting ready to launch the visiting filmmakers is a focus for our CACHE Media Hub in Springdale which city leaders and local film production includes an equipment lending library. companies. To produce 4-8 films per year will The primary goal is to support content require an ever-growing pool of experienced creators with tools, training, and networking crew members to support them. To meet opportunities. “I believe that this space will those demands and provide the training strengthen the film and media community, and technology resources needed are two provide jobs and promote economic growth,”

he said. “Watch for more details about the contributions CACHE is making to the region and collaborations with city programs throughout Northwest Arkansas.” The newest contribution for filmmaker education and resources is the Fayetteville Library’s 82,000-square-foot expansion which includes an Innovation Center. Within that center the library invested $300,000 in a professional-level audio recording studio, a video editing studio, a green screen, photography studio and a computer lab. The Innovation Center will offer classes and programming for all ages, but the studio spaces are reservable from teens to adults. Investments in accessible technology and film workforce development will create a vibrant filmmaking community in our region. Northwest Arkansas has a unique culture of a can-do spirit with enthusiasm that is being shared as visiting production companies go back to their home regions. Arkansas filmmaking is no longer a secret.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

Creative Economy Series | Part 2:

Experiential Events Impacting Retailers’ Bottom Line Editor’s Note: This is the second in a series of articles that illustrate the benefit of offering ticketed experiences that positively impact the bottom line of locally owned retailers while also contributing to the vibrant creative economy that continues to emerge in Northwest Arkansas. The creative economy involves both individuals and entities who engage in activities that add value to society in one or more ways through the provision of goods and/or services that are inextricably linked to human creativity manifesting itself in one or more dimensions through the process of ideation, creation, production, distribution and use.

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s Northwest Arkansas continues to experience rapid growth, we are privileged to become acquainted with entrepreneurs and small business owners who offer innovative, interactive experiences to enhance our quality of life in Northwest Arkansas. The following stories are from our local creative economy.

OZARK AXE HOUSE Tales of axe throwing competitions date back to the late middle ages and to Celtic tribes throughout Europe. It is said Europeans brought the tools to the New World where native Americans utilized tomahawks. Frontiersmen and lumberjacks in North America also used them for work, hunting and for sport. Today, axe throwing is seeing a resurgence as a popular urban sport in Canada, Thailand, Australia, France, the UK, the USA and right here in Northwest Arkansas. Ozark Axe House, located at 718 N. 2nd St. in Downtown Rogers, provides a lively venue where individuals and groups may experience axe throwing in a safe, casual indoor venue. Whether you want to learn a new skill, join an axe throwing league, participate in a competitive tournament, or just have a good time, Ozark Axe House is a fun option for spending time with family, friends and co-workers. They place safety at a high priority and provide safety protocol guidelines and instruction to ensure participants know how to play safe while having fun. Customers can plan private events to incorporate axe throwing into corporate team-building experiences, birthday and bachelor/ ette parties, and date nights (in-house or in their mobile unit).

They also support community service projects to raise money for organizations or individuals in need. In mid-May they hosted a fundraiser to reduce the financial burden incurred by Police Officer Tyler Franks who was shot while on duty with the Prairie Grove Police Department. They are available for special parties for Father’s Day, and they also offer special pricing for ladies’ nights and date nights. Ozark Axe House can also take the competition to special events throughout Northwest Arkansas and have two mobile axe throwing trailers that can be rented and transported to other locations. The trailers provide a fun way to liven up the private parties, charity events and corporate teambuilding activities. www.ozarkaxehouse.com

MAVIS WINE CO. Mavis Wine Co. is a wine bar, bodega

and bottle shop focusing on natural, organic, and biodynamic wines. They offer wines at all price points and quality levels and strive to introduce wine drinkers to lesser-known varieties and regions through weekly wine tastings and private events. Co-owners, Meghan McDonald and Jeff Barnett, relocated from California for the opportunity to become entrepreneurs in the Natural State. Previously, they worked in the film and TV industry in Los Angeles for the past 20 years - Meghan as a costumer, Jeff worked in props. Their newly renovated space at 718 N. 2nd St. is next to Ozark Axe House. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, a retail area for bottled wine and a unique variety of packaged snacks. They also offer a menu of Venetian-style tapas, known as cicchetti (chee-ket-tee) that consists of snacks and small bites. While traveling in Italy, Meghan

and Jeff were introduced to cicchetti, which is a Venetian tradition of gathering in small neighborhood bars (bacari) at the end of the workday to snack, drink and socialize. A new food truck has also been added to expand menu options. The covered, heated outdoor patio easily attracts cyclists, runners and walkers on the adjacent Railyard Loop Bike Trail, and they have a growing number of people finding them as a result of special events like their weekly wine tastings and participating in the 2nd Thursday Art on the Bricks Art Walk. They installed a gallery-hanging system to easily showcase the artwork of local artists. When asked if participation in the Art Walk was beneficial, Meghan replied “Yes, 60 percent of our customers last night were new to Mavis. We sold a fair number of bottles to people who were also buying individual glasses of wine and we definitely sold food.” Continued on Next Page

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

Mavis Wine Co. also hosts musicians from Arkansas Arts Academy on the 2nd Thursday of May. ” The musicians were great. We’ll definitely be hiring more musicians in the future for paid gigs,” explained Meghan when asked if they will continue to host musicians. “I think a couple of people wandered in off the trail because of the music,” she said. “We tend to get more foot traffic because of the trail than off of 2nd and the music probably helps.” Moving to Rogers was not a spur of the moment decision for the couple. Meghan had family move to Northwest Arkansas over the past 15 years, and when her mom moved here six or seven years ago, they began spending Christmas in the Ozarks. They first discovered Downtown Rogers and the brick streets, historical architecture and unique shops when her sister scheduled a family photo with a local photographer. “Initially the public art and cool architecture drew us in,” explained Meghan. “We returned over the year and over time noticed the difference and the growth in the downtown commercial district with each visit.” The new entrepreneurs are motivated to provide great products and service and the community is responding favorably. “The Downtown Rogers community is just electric, and the possibilities are intriguing, Rogers has been so welcoming,” responded Meagan. When asked why she thought the wine tastings and art walk pop-up exhibits were well-received by her customers, Meghan said she believes the people who live here like adventure and new experiences, plus the friendly demeanor of our community makes it easy for people to mix and mingle. During the wine tastings, the bakery case is filled on Wednesday nights. Cold appetizers, small plates, and Venetian tapas are all available and the hosts make recommendations as to which foods go with the various wines. Jeff is a licensed sommelier, a trained and knowledgeable wine professional, and in addition to sharing highlights pertaining to each sample, he also makes more detailed technical sheets available for those who want to do a deep dive into the wines. In addition to the public wine tastings offered each Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., they also offer a monthly ladies night event, and partner with their neighbors at Ozark Axe House for holidays and special events. Individuals, social groups and companies who want to take advantage of a wine experience may also reach out to schedule private group wine and food tastings. When asked what the future holds, the owners responded that they hope to offer a wine club, extended hours, live music on the patio, pop-up boutiques by local makers and art exhibitions and participation in the 2nd Thursday Art on the Bricks Art Walk each month. Meghan said she recommends other businesses consider offering ticketed experiences. “Rogers really is on the precipice of making a significant mark on Northwest Arkansas as an arts and entertainment destination. People really want to go out and get engaged, so I encourage other local business owners to create events that attract people, whether they are free or associated with a ticket price.” www.maviswineco.com

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DTR Market’s 2021 Season Now Underway

he DTR Market opened May 1 on a beautiful day in Downtown Rogers at the new Railyard Park, featuring live music and a variety of vendors. Open May-October from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., The DTR Market strives to provide consistent access to healthy, locally grown and produced goods, supporting our regional food system and economy.

Each week the DTR Market sets up in Frisco Plaza, bringing foot traffic to downtown businesses and encouraging visitors to spend more time downtown. The market features a diverse selection of local growers, bakers, makers and crafters during the summer. Vendors sell from the park’s plaza corridor with the ability to pull right into a parking spot to either sell from their vehicles or set up

booths in the plaza. Downtown Rogers Inc., a division of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, partners with the City of Rogers’s Arts and Culture Department to provide music on Saturday mornings, adding even more energy, atmosphere and fun for attendees. Stop by each Saturday morning to support our local vendors and enjoy a festive atmosphere downtown!

2021 Independence Day Celebrations |

Northwest Arkansas Fireworks Displays

ndependence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July or July Fourth, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from Great Britain. There is plenty of family fun to be had at the many fireworks displays held in Rogers and Northwest Arkansas this 4th of July! View a running list of displays and events that will be continuously updated at www.VisitRogersArkansas.com.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

April 2021

BAYOU BOYS CRAWFISH SHACK & CATERING 601 W. HUDSON ROAD, ROGERS

HENDERSON ENGINEERS 1803 PHYLLIS ST., STE. 200, BENTONVILLE

PINNACLE HEIGHTS APARTMENTS 5100 W. PARK AVE., ROGERS

Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

PROVIDENTIAL HOME CARE 113 PARKWOOD ST., STE. B, LOWELL

MEM BE RS H I P TI PS

T 28

TEEN ACTION AND SUPPORT CENTER 1194 W. WALNUT ST., ROGERS

How to Register for Events

his video will show you how to register for Chamber events and view event information using your Member Login Portal on RogersLowell.com. For more information, please contact Member Relations Manager Marni Rogers at Marni@ RogersLowell.com or (479) 636-1240.

Watch video tutorial to learn how to quickly and easily register for events online.

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NEW MEMBERS | April 2021 AAA INSURANCE - STENNETT THOMPKINS

GBS DEVELOPMENT INC.

1501 S.E. WALTON BLVD., STE. 111 | BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 381-3665 | WWW.AAA.COM/OFFICE/LOCATIONS/72712 INSURANCE

LOWELL, AR 72745 (479) 334-5263 CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

ATCHLEY AIR NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

HEYPEX GLOBAL INC.

345 E. MAIN ST. | FARMINGTON, AR 72730 (479) 652-0113 | WWW.ATCHLEYAIR.COM HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT - SYSTEMS - REPAIR

203 W. WOOD ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 354-2444 | HEYPEXGLOBAL.COM CONSULTING - BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT

BAYOU BOYS CRAWFISH SHACK & CATERING LLC JACK WILLS OUTDOOR LIVING 601 W. HUDSON RD. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 250-5550 | WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BAYOUBOYSCRAWFISHSHACK FOOD TRUCK

1024 W. HENRI DE TONTI BLVD. | SPRINGDALE, AR 72762 (479) 361-3730 | WWW.JACKWILLS.NET PATIO FURNITURE & SUPPLIES

BEYOND THE OZARKS, LLC

LABORMAX STAFFING - ROGERS

(479) 274-8292 | BEYONDTHEOZARKS.COM TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

2301 W. WALNUT ST., STE. 5 | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 899-6403 | WWW.LABORMAX.NET HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES

BLUE RIBBON INDUSTRIES 2225 S. BELLVIEW RD., STE. 100 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 636-1717 | BR.INDUSTRIES LANDSCAPE DESIGN - INSTALLATION

BOSTON MOUNTAIN FLOORING 1724 S. 8TH ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 372-6197 | BOSTONMOUNTAINFLOORING.NET FLOORING

DREAMMAKER BATH & KITCHEN OF NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

LABORMAX STAFFING - SPRINGDALE

MACK ‘ N DIANE CHAMPAGNE AND ROSES CATERING P.O. BOX 3116 | ROGERS, AR 72757 (479) 721-2112 | MACKNDIANE.COM CATERERS

MAKO BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SPRINGDALE, AR 72762 (479) 790-7545 | WWW.MAKOBUSINESS.COM CONSULTING - BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT

MARTINEZ AGENCY, LLC 1202 NE MCCLAIN RD., STE. 107 | BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (866) 641-7692 | WWW.MARTINEZ-AGENCY.COM MARKETING & ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

T-MOBILE - COMMUNITY OUTREACH SERVING NORTHWEST ARKANSAS (214) 607-2200 | WWW.T-MOBILE.COM CELL PHONE SERVICES & SUPPLIES

2111 S. OLD MISSOURI RD., STE. G | SPRINGDALE, AR 72762 (479) 717-6556 | WWW.LABORMAX.NET HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES

WINN ENVIRONMENTAL TECH

LINDSEY & ASSOCIATES - CLAY PEARSON

YOUNG CHEF’S ACADEMY

3801 W. WALNUT ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (843) 343-7207 | WWW.LINDSEY.COM REAL ESTATE - COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

5208 W VILLAGE PKWY #6 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 401-2006 | ROGERSAR.YOUNGCHEFSACADEMY.COM SCHOOLS - CULINARY

(479) 856-8202 | WWW.WINNENVIROTECH.COM ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING SERVICES

5100 PAULINE WHITAKER PKWY., STE. 106 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 579-9800 | WWW.DREAMMAKER-REMODEL.COM/NWA/ HOME IMPROVEMENT & REMODELING

Learn more at www.RogersLowell.com w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | April 2021 30+ YEARS

Fish City Grill

Prairie Creek Development - 57 years

Frost, PLLC

Guinn & Associates, CPA, PA - 50 years

Girl Scouts - Diamonds of Arkansas, Oklahoma

Benchmark Group - 43 years

and Texas

Ozark Regional Vein Center & Renew Aesthetics at Pinnacle Point Patterson Home Builders, Inc. Simplemachine

Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC - 43 years

Hook Line & Sinker

Al McCarty Jewelers - 42 years

KLRC Radio

Matthews, Campbell, Rhoads, McClure &

Kwik Kar Service Center

2-5 YEARS

McGaugh RV Center

AFS Business Solutions and Call

Thompson, P.A. - 41 years

The Whistler Group, Inc.

Aero Med Express, Inc - 40 years

McGhee Insurance NWA

Design Travel - 36 years

Northwest Arkansas Women’s Shelter

Arkansas Athletes Outreach (AAO)

Assembled Products Corporation - 35 years

OneDigital Health and Benefits

City Pump

Open Avenues - 35 years

Pinnacle Car Services

D & A Road Service

Verser Cabinets of NWA Inc. - 31 years

Pinnacle Chiropractic & Family Wellness, PLLC

Goddard School of Rogers

Premier Moving and Storage

Hapa’s Hawaiian Bar & Grill/Healthy Innovations

PRO Clean

Happy Egg Co.

CBI Team Northwest Arkansas

Providence Classical Christian Academy

Legacy Transit Lines, LLC

Clack Corporation

LifeSource

First United Methodist Church

Rodeo of the Ozarks

MANA Family Medicine

HEBCO, Inc.

Saving Grace, Inc.

Mark Moreland

IBERIABANK

Simplify Professional Services

The McElroy Group LLC

Jeff Wisener & Darron Cooper & Chris Fergus

Steve’s Plumbing, LLC

One Communications “One Comm”

West Termite & Pest Management Inc.

Precision Door Service of NWA

21-30 YEARS

Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Lifetouch National School Studios, Inc. Sharp’s Show of War Eagle

6-10 YEARS

State Farm Insurance - Karen Williams

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Solutions

Tallchamps, LLC

11-20 YEARS

Real Estate

Center Operations

Primrose Retirement Communities Soapbox Influence Startup Junkie Foundation TCBY Frozen Yogurt

Frazier Law Firm, PLC

Top Shelf Marine

Freedom5:one Ministries

United States Postal Service

AMP Sign & Banner

Gearhead Outfitters

Willtech Enterprises, Inc.

ArkanPaws Pet Sitting

Harvey Pediatrics, PLLC

Winn Environmental Tech

Arkansas Musicworks, LLC

Highlands Oncology Group, P.A.

Arkansas Periodontal & Implant Associates

Jamestown Nursing & Rehabilitation

1 YEAR

Belk, Inc. Strore #0285

Kinty Jones Heating & Cooling

Arkansas Urology Bentonville

Boys & Girls Club of Benton County - Rogers Unit

Local Trade Partners, LLC

Donna Katzfey Realtor

eSCO Processing and Recycling, LLC

Moe’s Southwest Grill

ProSource NW Arkansas

The First Tee of Northwest Arkansas

My HR Professionals

Woodridge Interactive

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | J U N E 2 02 1

Chamber Business Connect & 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.

SPECIAL NOTE** | Participants of Events, Meetings & Gatherings As Northwest Arkansas gets back to business, the safety of our staff and our community is the number one priority. We want to ensure you that we take public health very seriously. In compliance with the health directives and guidelines issued by Governor Asa Hutchinson and the Arkansas Department of Health, we are taking the necessary steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect those of high risk.

With this in mind, see some of our events below with requirements for in-person attendance or notes about ways to attend virtually. 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 PRESENTED BY | PRINTOVA SIGNS & GRAPHICS JUNE HOST SPONSOR | BUSINESS BUILDER

LEADERSHIP COACHING LOCATION | Golden Corral ADDRESS | 2605 W Pleasant Crossing Dr., Rogers

PR E SENTED BY

JUN

PRESENTED BY | CITIZENS BANK JUNE HOST SPONSOR | HACHEM INVESTMENTS LOCATION | One Uptown 5102 Pauline Whitaker Pkwy., Rogers

Tee Off at Topgolf Coming June 24

The NEW Tee Off at Topgolf event with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is an opportunity for Chamber members and their guests to experience Rogers’ newest entertainment venue: Topgolf. Don’t worry about inclement weather as the venue offers climate-controlled hitting bays for year-round comfort.

Finally, A Golf Tourney for Golfers and Non-Golfers

JUN

PRESENTED BY |

7 BREW COFFEE & PRIMROSE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES JUNE HOST SPONSOR | MOSER CORPORATION ADDRESS | 601 N. 13th St., Rogers

Conduct business by inviting special customers to play with you as a gesture of thanks or reward employees with a fun day of teambuilding. You’ll enjoy this fun environment that caters to all skill levels, including non-golfers! This new style of golf tournament includes two rounds, best ball format and provides you with the opportunity to win $10,000 in the Hole-in-one Contest as well as a lifetime membership to Topgolf. Players will receive hors d’oeuvres, two adult drink tickets and bottomless fountain soda, iced tea, coffee, and water. Sponsorships include the opportunity to spread your message to all participants during a compact timeline, in a venue where you can easily interact with all participants. To reserve your team, register at RogersLowell.com or call the Chamber at (479) 636-1240. Contact the Chamber's Member Services Team at (479) 636-1240 or email MemberServices@RogersLowell.com for sponsorship details.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JUNE2021

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