Chamber Voice | May 2017 by Rogers Lowell Chamber

MAY2017 | Vol 12 Issue 5

2017 Regional Legislative Agenda Yields Successes at 91st General Assembly

he 2017 Northwest Arkansas Regional Legislative Agenda was developed last year after numerous meetings and months of planning by the Northwest Arkansas Chambers, the Northwest Arkansas Council, and representatives from Northwest Arkansas’s major employers. This agenda was prepared for the 91st General Assembly that convened in Little Rock January 9, and contained 22 items spread over several key categories: Workforce Development, Workforce Training, Education, Higher Education, Infrastructure, Economic Development, Agriculture, Regional Stewardship, and Business Climate. Twenty bills that represented these categories became acts this session, which is a remarkable accomplishment for the region in one legislative session. Governor Asa Hutchinson is flanked by Northwest Arkansas education leaders and legislators while signing SB288 into law. The bill sponsored by Senator Jim Hendren and Rep. Dan Douglas, now Act 509, allows for the creation and establishment of Regional Career Centers.

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Events and Meetings 2017 Regional Legislative Agenda Yields Successes at 91st General Assembly Continued

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2017 Fall | Chamber Event Guide Planner 2017 Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair; Pinnacle Hills Promenade Presents the RLACC Spring Golf Tournament Advocating for the Small Business Community; Ambassador of the First Quarter

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Growing Demand for Skilled Healthcare Workers

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Focus on the Community – Honeycomb Kitchen Shop Introduces Food Preparation Classes and Other Stories from the Community

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Get to Know Your Chamber’s Newest Staff Members; Reminder – Don’t Forget to Assess by May 31

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Focus on Education – Congratualtions to the 2017 Graduates of the Arvest First Leadership Program

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Welcome New Members | March 2017

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13 Page

Ribbon Cuttings | March 2017 Chamber Membership Renewals | March 2017; Annual Chamner Picnic June 2 | Be Our Guest Chamber Networking & Educational Events

Visit Rogers | Rogers Tourism Industry Gets Busy in May!

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quick reference calendar | MAY Business Building Events

Upcoming Meetings

View complete calendar at RogersLowell.com

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5.2 | Chamber University Spanish Seminar Series – Topic: How to Start a Business in Arkansas 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

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5.3 | Chamber University Sunrise Seminar Series – Topic: How to Develop Your Small Business Brand Strategy 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

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

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Chamber of Commerce

5.6 | 26th Annual Bradford Marine & ATV Buddy Bass Tournament 1:00 p.m. Weigh-in | Prairie Creek Marina in Rogers

317 West Walnut Street

Rogers-Lowell Area

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Rogers, Arkansas 72756

5.09 | Coffee Connection 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. | Crain Hyundai of Bentonville

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

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

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

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Paid for through Periodical “Chamber Voice”

5.17 | NWA Spring Job Fair 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Frisco Station Mall

(USPS 492950) is published monthly in January,

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February, March, May, June, July, August,

5.18 | Joint Business After Hours with Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | CEI Engineering Associates, Inc.

September, October November and December;

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5.19 | Government Affairs Committee Meeting 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

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5.22 | Ambassadors About Town 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Location TBD

(semi-monthly in April) by the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc., 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756. Periodical postage paid at Rogers, AR.

Postmaster send address changes to: Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Newsletter 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756.

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

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

Ross Phillips Director of Community Development ross@rogerslowell.com

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

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

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

Jacque Eakins Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com

Katie Wright Office Manager/Executive Assistant katie@rogerslowell.com

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

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

Marni Rogers Member Relations Manager marni@rogerslowell.com

Ashley Matsumura Information Specialist ashley@rogerslowell.com

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

Judy Diffee Finance Manager judy@rogerslowell.com

Nick Smith Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com

Amanda Mills Information Specialist amanda@rogerslowell.com

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

Claire Campbell Director of Special Events claire@rogerslowell.com

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

BOA RD O F DI R E C TO R S EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chairman of the Board David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade Chairman-Elect Eric Pianalto, Mercy NWA Treasurer Greg Fogle, Nabholz Construction Past Chairman Nick Hobbs, J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. President/CEO Raymond Burns

RIDC President Jerry Vest, Regions Bank

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2017 DIRECTORS

Frank Bailey, Bailey & Oliver Law Firm Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Luxury Real Estate Redefined Mauricio Herrera, Legal Center of NWA Tabi Lipscomb, Arvest Benton County J.D. Davis, AMP Sign & Banner Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods

2018 DIRECTORS

Keri Earwood, Shelter Insurance Dennis Ferguson, Simmons Bank Jon Harrell, Generations Bank Jeff Milford, AEP/SWEPCO David Roth, WorkMatters Tina Winham, SC Johnson A Family Company

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS

Dr. Marlin Berry - Rogers Public Schools Jerry Carmichael - The Gyde Group Barry Moehring - Benton County Judge Richard D. Davis - Black Hills Energy Mike Dodge - Carroll Electric Coop. Corp. Sandy Edwards - Crystal Bridges Museum W. Dan Hendrix - World Trade Center Arkansas Greg Hines - Mayor - City of Rogers Tom Hopper - Crafton, Tull

Dr. Evelynn Jorgenson - NWACC Peter Lane - Walton Arts Center David Lang - Embassy Suites of NWA Eldon Long - Mayor - City of Lowell Mike Power - First Security Bank Dawn Spragg - Central United Methodist Curch Thom Stathakis - Everett Buick GMC Dick Trammel - Arkansas Highway Commission

2019 DIRECTORS

Jeremy Barclay, Northwest Health Jill Bright, Citizens Bank Corry Hull, Legacy Capital Group Erin Kiefer, Assembled Products Corporation Chris Sultemeier, Walmart US Angie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker’s Furniture & Appliance

DIVISION CHAIRS

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

AUDIT COMMITTEE

Jill Bright, Frank Bailey & Jon Harrell

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Governor Hutchinson poses with Northwest Arkansas legislators and educational leaders after creating Act 509 (SB288), which was sponsored by Senator Jim Hendren and Representative Dan Douglas. Pictured Left to Right: Stephanie Trollinger – NTI High School CTE Coordinator, Hendren, Jay Chalk – Gravette Schools Principal, Richard Page – Gravette Schools Superintendent, Randy Barett – Gentry Schools Superintendent, Jay Ophiliant – Gravette School Board, Tom Freking – NTI, Blake Robertson – NTI Director, Governor Hutchinson, Jeff Gravette – Decatur Schools Superintendent, Representative Dan Douglas, Mike Harvey, Jon Moran, Judy Winslett – Gentry Schools CTE Director, Charles Cudney – NWA Education Service Cooperative (NWAESC) Director, Cheryl Pickering – NWAESC Regional CTE Coordinator

Legislative Successes Workforce development was identified as the number one priority for the region, and that is where the Government Affairs division focused its primary efforts during the session. Early meetings on workforce legislation with Senators Jim Hendren, Uvalde Lindsey, Jane English, Jimmy Hickey, and Representative Dan Douglas were extremely productive and led to the passage of several bills. SB288 was co-sponsored by Senator Hendren and Representative Douglas. This allowed for the creation and establishment of regional career centers that can be operated by multiple school districts, or by districts in partnership with a community college. SB423 was sponsored by Senator Lindsey and Representative Douglas. It gives career education programs the flexibility to add more industry certifications to their course offerings by moving them from end-of-course assessments to end-ofprogram assessments. HB1459 was sponsored by Representative Douglas. It provides flexibility in the awarding of course credits, and allows public schools to develop and implement plans that enable students to earn course credits by demonstrating subject matter competency. SB528 was one of the agenda’s biggest legislative accomplishments in this session. It was sponsored by Senator Jimmy Hickey of Texarkana. In meetings at the beginning of the session, the Government Affairs division prevailed upon Senator Hickey to consider including workforce training in part of his legislation as it relates to future disbursement of excess Arkansas Scholarship Lottery funds. Early collaboration with Senator Hickey resulted in up to $12 million dollars of those excess funds being included in the bill and directed to workforce training. Legislative Disappointments The General Assembly failed to pass HB1726 which was a highway funding program sponsored by Representative Dan Douglas. The measure ultimately failed by eight votes in the House. Unfortunately, 10 members of the House delegation from Benton and Washington County voted against the bill.

"I have not seen the Northwest Arkansas business community this unified in their legislative efforts in many years, it is extremely valuable to have a singular source and voice to speak for the region's business community. The Governor puts much value in our positions and opinions. We still have work to do to get the ear of several legislators but there is no doubt in my mind that it can be accomplished."

taking a picture of an item with their smart phone, walking out the door, and ordering the same item on the Internet. Legislative Near-Misses Fortunately, several bills that would have attracted negative attention to the state and region never achieved final passage. Two bills were filed that could be considered “bathroom bills” modeled after what had passed in North Carolina last year. North Carolina has been reeling in negative publicity and negative economic impact ever since that bill passed. In the 48 hours following a similar shell bill being filed in Arkansas, there were hundreds of mentions in media outlets reaching millions of people across 38 states. This bill was eventually withdrawn by the sponsor, but if SB774, which was an actual bill, had made it out of committee, a debate would have ensued in the Capitol and the negative media for the state would likely have grown exponentially.

The Tally A total of 14 Acts were passed that were directly tied to the 22 items contained in the PHILIP TALDO 2017 Northwest Arkansas Regional Legislative Arkansas State Highway Commissioner Agenda. An additional six acts were passed and Legislative Staff member that were not contained in the agenda, but for Governor Asa Hutchinson they did come up during the session and were beneficial to the global companies that call Legislators also failed to pass the E-fairness Northwest Arkansas home. bills - HB1388 and SB140 which were almost Looking Ahead identical bills by the end of the session. Both Although the agenda yielded many bills would have gone a long way to helping our main street businesses compete with online successes this legislative session, there are some items identified that still need some retailers (located in other states) that do not work. The region’s leadership is already have to collect sales taxes for purchases made working together to lay the groundwork for by Arkansans. Several members of the Benton and Washington County delegation ignored the successful passage of those items in future legislative sessions. For example, legislation to small businesses in their districts and bowed to pressure from outside groups and voted against further streamline the delivery of Workforce Education and Training in Arkansas is needed. SB140. The owner of one Northwest ArkansasThere also needs to be a recommitment based furniture retailer shared in his testimony to working with the region’s legislative to the Revenue and Tax Committee that he tracked almost a million dollars in sales walk out delegation to find and garner support for a funding solution to tackle important the door last year alone. He stated that this was infrastructure needs in Northwest Arkansas. due primarily to people coming into the store,

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2017 Fall | Chamber Event Guide Planner

ave the dates for these upcoming Chamber events. Whether you are looking for networking or sponsorship opportunities, or entertainment and team-building activities, the Chamber offers plenty of options this fall.

Thank-A-Teacher Celebration Presented by Sam’s Furniture & Teacher Education Fair & Appreciation Breakfast Presented by Hight-Jackson and Associates, P.A. Wednesday, August 9 | 7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Rogers High School | Rogers • Donate Valuable Door Prizes for the Thank-ATeach Celebration (minimum $50 Value) • Exhibit Booth Space Available for the Teacher Education Fair & Appreciation Breakfast • Sponsorships Now Available! • Learn More at RogersLowell.com This year, the Chamber combined its Thank-ATeacher Celebration with its Teacher Education Fair & Appreciation Breakfast on the same day to not only show appreciation but also provide teachers an opportunity to check out Chamber members’ products and services - all in one place. Teachers give our children so much, using their classrooms as the first steps in educating the children who will lead our future – and though we can never thank them enough, this day of celebration and appreciation expresses our sincere gratitude. If you would like to donate a door prize to the Thank-A-Teacher Celebration, or sponsor the event, please contact Claire Campbell at (479) 636-1240. Booth space and sponsor booths are still available for the Teacher Education Fair & Appreciation Breakfast and may be purchased by visiting RogersLowell.com or contacting membersservices@rogerslowell.com. “Networking with a Purpose” Non-Profit Showcase at Business After Hours Thursday, August 17 | 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Acosta Sales & Marketing | Rogers • Trade Show Exhibit Booths: $100 for Members | $150 for Non-members • Sponsorships Available • Register at RogersLowell.com Imagine a Business After Hours event that features local non-profits by combining networking with trade show exhibits

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showcasing non-profit organizations in Northwest Arkansas. That’s the “Networking with a Purpose” Non-Profit Showcase event. In its second year, the event is presented by the Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders and the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce. Meet contacts from a variety of organizations to find out how you may volunteer and contribute. Learn what services are provided by non-profits and what products and services they need. Free admission to the public. Food and drinks will be available. Fall Golf Tournament Friday, September 8 | 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Tee Times Lost Springs Golf & Athletic Club, Inc. | Rogers • Team of Four $500 • Sponsorships Available • Register at RogersLowell.com Held annually, teams of four enjoy building business relationships on the golf course in a beautiful fall setting. Treat clients to a round of golf to seal the deal, say thank you to clients for their business or show your employees you appreciate them by inviting them to play in the tournament. Prizes are awarded for top finishing teams and for individual winners of the longest drive, closest-to-the-pin and putting contests. Each golfer receives complimentary snacks and beverages, breakfast (morning tee time), lunch and entry into the 19th Hole Party, where prizes are awarded to the top teams.

Northwest Arkansas Fall Job Fair Wednesday, October 4 | 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Frisco Station Mall | Rogers • Trade Show Exhibit Booths: $250 for Members | $400 Non-Members • Sponsorships Available • Register at RogersLowell.com Each fall employers get a head start on hiring for the holidays at the Northwest Arkansas Fall Job Fair. This is a perfect opportunities for employers to search for the right employees and get a head start on hiring needs for the year. Reserve exhibit booth space today to ensure access to the hundreds of job seekers expected to attend. The job fair typically

attracts close to 500 job seekers and features over 60 employers and businesses. **New in 2017** RogersLowell Area Chamber of Commerce (RLACC) Sporting Clays Classic Friday, October 13, 2017 | 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Flight Times Gunsmoke Sporting Clays | Garfield • Team of Four $300 (Includes Ammo and Goodie Bag) • Sponsorships Available • Register at RogersLowell.com This is the newest event from the Chamber and offers members a unique and fun opportunity to network with other business professionals and conduct business on the shooting range. Sponsors may invite special customers/clients to join them as a gesture of thanks or reward employees with a day of team building. Over 80 shooters are expected to participate in this first-ever event. Shooters receive continental breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages. Experienced and novice shooters alike are encouraged to attend and bring colleagues, clients, family and friends out for a fun day of clay shooting.

Bowling for Business - 8th Annual Friday, November 10 | 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Rogers Bowling Center | Rogers • Team of Five $120 ($195 for Non-members) • Individual Bowlers* $30 ($50 for NonMembers) * Will be assigned to a Team • Sponsorships Available | Sponsor a Lane for Only $400 • Register at RogersLowell.com Not everyone can golf, but anyone can bowl! Join us for this exciting team-building event in November. It will be held at the Rogers Bowling Center for an afternoon of food and fun competition. This event is growing in popularity each year mainly because it is perfect for fostering teamwork among your employees. It’s great exercise too! Team awards are presented for highest and lowest scores, best team shirts and more! Get registered early as there is room for only 32 teams – it will sell out quickly. The price includes two games as well as all-you-caneat-and-drink (snacks and beverages).

2017 Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair | May 17 – 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 2017 Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair | Wednesday, May 17 in Rogers The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce will host its 2017 Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair, presented by Home Instead Senior Care and Glad Manufacturing Company, on Wednesday, May 17, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Frisco Station Mall located at 100 N. Dixieland Rd. in Rogers. Largest and Longest Running Job Fairs in Arkansas The Chamber’s Northwest Arkansas Job Fairs (Spring and Fall) are the largest and longest running job fairs in Arkansas and are FREE to job seekers. Attendees are encouraged to bring their resumes to hand out to potential employers.

Computers Available for Online Applications The 2017 Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair will have free access to laptops with Internet connection to allow attendees to apply for jobs online.

PRESENTING SPONSORS |

EMPLOYERS | Exhibit Booth Space Available on First Come, First Serve Basis This is a perfect opportunities for employers to search for the right employees and get a head start on hiring needs for the year. Reserve exhibit booth space today to ensure access to the hundreds of job seekers expected to attend. Exhibit booth space is expected to sell out quickly! Registrations are due Wednesday, May 10.

Pinnacle Hills Promenade Presents the RLACC Spring Golf Tournament Monday, June 5, 2017 Pinnacle Hills Promenade Presents the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Spring Golf Tournament • Tee Times | 8:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. • Shadow Valley Country Club • 7001 Shadow Valley Rd. | Rogers • Registration Required Treat Yourself, Reward Employees & Say Thank You to Clients Join us Monday, June 5, for the 2017 Spring Golf Tournament Presented by Pinnacle Hills Promenade, a four-person scramble with shotgun start times of 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. at beautiful Shadow Valley Country Club in Rogers. The tournament is a fun day for Chamber members to come together, compete for prizes and network with other players. It’s a great way to treat yourself,

reward company employees and say thank you to special clients on the golf course. A Fun Day | Contests & Prizes, Goodies, Snacks, Beverages* & Delicious Food Players can test their skills in the hole-in-one, longest drive, closest-to-the-pin and putting contests. Prizes will be awarded for top finishing teams and individual contest winners. Each golfer will receive complimentary snacks and beverages. Breakfast will be served for the morning golfers. Lunch will be provided to every golfer. Spring Golf Tournament | A Unique Chamber Networking Opportunity The golf tournament is a unique networking opportunity. Don’t miss the 19th Hole Party held immediately following play. The day’s tournament winners will be announced during this party. Stay

and get acquainted with tournament sponsors and other members of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce while enjoying culinary delights. Sponsorships Available Now Not a golfer? Sponsoring the 2017 Spring Golf Tournament Presented by Pinnacle Hills Promenade is an effective, low-cost way to promote your company and raise your company’s profile in the community. Sponsorship packages include the opportunity to reach all golf participants and be recognized by the Chamber. PRESENTING SPONSOR |

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Advocating for the Small Business Community

he Small Business Council (SBC) is a committee of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce. Established in 2005, the purpose of the SBC is to serve as an advocate for the small business community in and around Northwest Arkansas. Committee members are volunteers who work in and with small businesses within our community. Members take an active role in shaping Chamber programming designed for the benefit of the small business community. Educating, Onboarding and Recognizing Members SBC members are responsible for overseeing three key programs and are working towards adding additional programming in 2017 and beyond. Members plan business education courses where members teach members via Chamber University. Council members survey the small business community then map out topics for the year that business owners have expressed an interest. SBC members also plan and host the bi-monthly Member Orientation program for Chamber members. This program allows new members to learn how to maximize their membership and existing members to get a refresher on all the Chamber offers. Each

quarter the SBC selects a local small business to be recognized as an Outstanding Small Business of the Quarter, looking at businesses success and community giving as criteria to be selected. Planning for the Future In 2017 and beyond the SBC is looking at creating additional programming to better serve the small business community. There are plans in place to create a business women’s network which will offer women-owned businesses and professional businesswomen a chance to interact and learn from subject matter experts. The exact details of this new program are still being put together, but expect announcements of its formation soon. A second new program the SBC is in the process of creating is a Non-Profit Training Series. This series of educational seminars will focus on the non-profit community and offer training on topics ranging from non-profit founding to board of director recruitment to creative fundraising. Look for this program to begin in 2018. The SBC is a vital tool that the Chamber uses to reach out to the small business community. It helps ensure that Rogers, Lowell, and Northwest Arkansas continue to be a top location in the country for small businesses to thrive. See a full list of SBC members to the right:

2017 Small Business Council Corry Hull - 2017 Chair - Legacy Capital Group Martha Londagin - 2017 Co-Chair - Legacy National Bank Kelli Gemmell - 2017 Past-Chair - Milestone Construction *Denise Thomas - World Trade Center Arkansas Rob Gutterridge - Talk Business and Politics and the NWA Business Journal Blanca Maldonado - AMP Sign & Banner Charlene Fields - Soul’s Harbor NWA Don Ogden - Edward Jones Randy Durbin - Arvest Asset Management JD Chambliss - First Security Bank Delanna Padilla Pennington - Padilla, Smith, Tolbert, PLLC Kaala House - Insurance Team 360 *Lori Ann Lieblong - Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC) Angie Ellis - Capital Abstract and Title *David Bernstein - SCORE William Mertig - Sam’s Club Carrie Wilson - Mass Mutual Financial Group Dave Proffitt - American National Insurance Company Jeremy Janes - Janes Insurance Company Lou Suski - RPM Group *Shelle Summers – Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce *Steve Cox - Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce * Ex-Officio Members

Congratulations Julie Damer | Ambassador of the First Quarter Q: How long have you been an Ambassador? I joined the Ambassador program in April 2016, a month after starting to work for First Western.

Q: Why did you decide to become involved with the Ambassador Committee?

Q: What is your position and how long have you worked at your company? I’m the Marketing Officer for First Western. My husband and I moved to Arkansas in December 2015. I started working for First Western in March 2016. We have 10 locations throughout the state of Arkansas and I get to be a part of everything that goes on in all of the branches!

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While living in Missouri I was very involved as a member with area Chambers of commerce. I have seen how being a member of a good Chamber is beneficial to both the business and the individual member. When the opportunity came along to join the Ambassadors Committee for the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, I knew it was great for me as well as First Western and gladly accepted.

Q: What is your favorite part about being an Ambassador? There are so many favorites! If I had to

pick one, it would be getting to meet with the new members at their ribbon cutting or grand opening. Joining a Chamber is a big step for a business and we, as Ambassadors, have the opportunity to meet with them on a one-on-one basis, let them know about networking events and seminars, and educate them about other helpful resources that are available. Your membership is only as good as you make it, so the more involved you can be, the better. I have also met some really great people and become good friends through our Ambassador program.

Q: What other organizations are you involved in? I am involved with the Samaritan Community Center as a volunteer, and a member of Network of Executive Women of NWA, NWA Business Women Network and Women In Networking.

Growing Demand for Skilled Healthcare Workers

ligning Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs with both current and projected employment data designed to meet local workforce demands is the focus of both short-term and long-term planning for the Rogers Public Schools CTE department. The district’s partnership with both the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and Northwest Arkansas Council, has been a valuable resource for educators through participation in sponsored events that have increased educator awareness and knowledge of employment trends within the medical and healthcare sectors.

In this article, we look at the growing demand for skilled healthcare workers within the Northwest Arkansas region, and the programs that are offered within the district to help prepare students for successful careers within the medical and health science fields. Certified Nurse’s Assistant (CNA) Rogers Public Schools has partnered with Northwest Technical Institute (NTI) to offer the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course. The course will be offered to 11-12th grade students in Rogers Public Schools, as well as neighboring school districts. The CNA course will be taught on the Rogers High School campus, and will serve as another location of the Secondary Career Center. Medical Professions Program of Study In addition to the Certified Nursing Assistant program, the Rogers Public Schools offers the Pharmacy Technology Fundamentals course for students who are interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician, pharmacist, or related occupations within this career field. Students may also choose to take several other courses within the Medical Professions program of study, including Introductions to Medical Professions, Medical Terminology, and Medical Procedures. Industry Certifications Students also have the opportunity to obtain industry certifications related to medical

and healthcare career fields. This year, students in grades 7th & 8th grade attended First Aid/CPR/ AED certification training during the Spring Break Career Camp that was held in March. Plans are underway to offer Wilderness First Aid Training to students in 7-11th grade in May 2017. The Wilderness First Aid Certification Training is an advanced training that offers students an opportunity to obtain several certifications within the five-day course. Students gain both academic and technical skills that align with the American Safety & Health Institute standards in areas relating to First Aid/CPR/AED, along with specialized skills related to Wilderness First Aid.

K2J Connect | Connecting Educators and Local Healthcare Professionals Mike Harvey with the Northwest Arkansas Council presented at the Chamber’s February K2J (Kindergarten-To-Job) Connect meeting attended by both educators and local healthcare professionals. Mr. Harvey shared an overview of both the current and future employment trends within the region, including projected increases in the number of jobs for the following: Healthcare Practitioners (+64%); Personal Care and Services (+123%); and Healthcare Support (+71%). With several new medical facilities under construction currently in Northwest Arkansas, Rogers Public Schools will continue to seek viable programs and certification training programs that will help prepare its students for successful careers within the medical and healthcare fields. Partnerships Needed The Rogers Public Schools is interested in establishing partnerships with local medical and dental facilities, including clinics, hospitals, private practices, and other healthcare organizations to offer students opportunities to expand the scope of their experiences within this career field through job shadowing, internships, work-related field trips, and mentorship projects. The district would also like to extend an invitation and opportunity for health care professionals to share information through classroom visits and presentations. Please contact Dawn Stewart, Director of Career & Technical Education, at (479) 636-3910 to learn more about exciting partnership opportunities.

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Honeycomb Kitchen Shop Introduces

Food P reparation Classes April | 2017 – The Downtown Rogers boutique kitchen shop celebrated its one year anniversary April 30. The shop features unique cooking items and a spacious kitchen. On select evenings, local chefs and restauranteurs share their talents and tasty samples in a classroom setting. It’s become a popular destination for foodies who seek to broaden their culinary talents or just enjoy a fun gathering with friends. Some popular classes include Drink Mixology, Wine and Cheese Pairing, Cookie Decorating, and Pairing Products from the Downtown Rogers Farmers Market. Visit honeycombkitchenshop.com to learn more.

Arkansas Children’s Achieves Magnet® Recognition March | 2017 - Arkansas Children’s Hospital celebrated its Magnet® recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (see photo). The accreditation puts Arkansas Children’s among the elite six percent of hospitals worldwide that have earned Magnet status.

Bost, Inc. Board of Directors Announces Executive Director Transition March | 2017 - The Bost Board of Directors announced

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that Kent C. Jones, Executive Director, will retire on July 1, 2017 after thirty years of service to the Agency. Katie Raines (pictured) has been selected the next Executive Director beginning July 1. She brings a wealth of experience including 25 years in the field of disabilities.

Google Maps Service Begins Using Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) Bus Routes April | 2017 - With Google Transit, passengers go to Google Maps, click on the bus silhouette icon, then type in the address of where they’re desiring to go. In conjunction with walking and biking

directions and distance, the existing ORT bus system can now also be incorporated into a trip. Google Maps will direct a person to the nearest and most effective bus stop then a bus-by-bus and transfer-by-transfer process. This new tool, in combination with ORT’s website ozark.org and the “RouteShout” phone application, will better assist passengers in accessing public transportation in Northwest Arkansas.

Get to Know Your Chamber’s Newest Staff Members Claire Campbell

Director of Special Events Claire is the new Director of Special Events. She’s responsible for managing everything from the annual Buddy Bass fishing tournament to monthly networking events like Coffee Connection, Business After Hours, and the Business2Business quarterly networking events. Claire also plans and develops the Chamber’s other major annual events such as job fairs, golf tournaments, and business conferences. She’s had the pleasure of working in all sorts of industries from non-profits to agriculture, and is excited to bring her new ideas to the Chamber’s event planning process. She’s a native of Central Mississippi, and graduated with a Marketing degree from the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). In her spare time, she likes to garden, eat, cook and go places!

Ross Phillips

Director of Community Development Ross is the new Director of Community Development. After nearly four years working as the Hospitality Director at Mount Sequoyah Center Inc., he understands what it takes to truly serve and give back to his community. Ross believes that to make a big difference it is not what you know but how well you connect with the people you serve in your community. He was born and raised in Fayetteville, and attended the University of Central Arkansas where he graduated with a degree in Public Relations, Advertising and Applied Communication. Ross enjoys being outside whether it is hunting, fishing, hiking, or running. He and his wife can often be found walking the trails at Lake Atlanta or hiking in the woods at Hobbs State Park.

Reminder – Don’t Forget to Assess by May 31

he end of the month is the deadline for businesses and individuals to assess their personal property. If you fail to assess by May 31, the county will impose a 10 percent penalty.

phone (479) 271-1033. You may also assess in person at 1428 W. Walnut in Rogers, 215 E. Central Ave. in Bentonville, 901 1st Ave. SE in Gravette, or 707 S. Lincoln St. in Siloam Springs.

property) or (479) 444-1641 (commercial property), or dropping by the Assessor’s office in Fayetteville at 280 N. College, in Springdale at 3159 Springdale Avenue, or in Lincoln at 215 S. Main.

WASHINGTON COUNTY Ways to Assess | Online - By Phone - In Person BENTON COUNTY

Benton County residents may assess online at bentoncountyar.gov or over the

Washington County residents may assess online at www.co.washington.ar.us/ government/departments-a-e/assessor/ personal-property-assessments or over the phone by calling (479) 444-1520 (personal Ro g e rs Lowe l l . co m | M AY 2 01 7

Congratulations to the 2017 Graduates of the

Arvest First

Leadership Program

Front row (L to R): Kayla Bejar, Samantha Alderson, Riley Maxfield, Sidney Smith, Karina Escobar, Britany Lopez, Tejay Rowe, Second Row (L to R): Ezra King, Alejandro Perez, David Talbot, Adrian Munoz, Payton Wells, Alejandra Torres, Natalia Tobar Not Pictured: Samuel Cobbs, Julian Kim, Elizabeth Perez, Katherine Rodriguez, Nicole Vasquez

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | M AY 2 01 7

Rogers Tourism Industry Gets Busy in May! Spring is a great time to visit Rogers, and in May the good times keep on rolling.

Spring Craft Fair Weekend This month kicks off with Spring Craft Fair Weekend May 5-7 at locations throughout Northwest Arkansas. These legendary arts and crafts fairs are in full bloom in spring with everything from handmade quilts to handspun sugary treats, antique and not-so-antique home décor, handmade gifts and a lot more that’s sure to enthrall all types of visitors as well as residents. Be sure to stop by the Visitors Information Center at the Chamber’s office in Downtown Rogers for a free Craft Fair map.

May 13. Later in the month, pop music fans get a treat when the Play That Song tour hits town on May 22 featuring TRAIN, OAR and Natasha Bedingfield. There’s even something for the youngsters in May, as the KidzBopKids “Best Time Ever” 2017 tour sneaks in for a performance May 21. The premiere outdoor concert venue in all of Arkansas keeps May rocking on in Rogers! Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion (AMP) The Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion, known as the AMP, presents a variety of concerts in May that’s sure to please somebody and everybody, depending on their tastes. One of the most successful bands of the ‘90s, British rockers BUSH, comes to Rogers May 6, along with She Wants Revenge. Then hip-hop artist and producer Travis Scott brings his Birds Eye View tour to town

Walmart Shareholders Week Visitors of another kind keep Rogers hoteliers and restaurateurs very busy at the end of the month. May 29 - June 1 is Walmart Shareholders Week, where thousands of Walmart associates from around the world descend upon Northwest Arkansas for company meetings, rallies and big-time entertainment. Celebrity

watchers will be on high alert, as one never knows whom Walmart will bring into town to entertain, and the company never tells who’s coming in advance. Walmart Shareholders Week brings to Rogers and Northwest Arkansas great people-watching, full and busy hotels and restaurants, huge public attention and increased awareness of the area. It’s a fitting finish to a marvelous and busy tourism month in Rogers.

Connect with Visit Rogers /VisitRogers

/visitrogers

/visitrogersar/

/visitrogers

Ro g e rs Lowe l l . co m | M AY 2 01 7

Welcome NEW MEMBERS | March 2017 AAA INSURANCE Ed Sullivan 1501 S.E. WALTON BLVD., STE. 111 | BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 254-9223 | AUTOCLUBMO.AAA.COM INSURANCE

RIN INTERIORS LLC Erin Reinker P.O. BOX 569 | CENTERTON, AR 72719 (479) 285-5440 | RININTERIORS.COM INTERIOR DECORATORS & DESIGNERS

VILLAGE WRITING SCHOOL Alison Taylor-Brown 1200 W. WALNUT ST., STE. 120 | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 292-3665 | VILLAGEWRITINGSCHOOL.COM ORGANIZATIONS

ASCERT, LLC Donna Hanson 6 HALSTEAD CIRCLE | ROGERS, AR 72756 (877) ASCERT-IT | ASCERT.COM COMPUTER SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

ROGERS EXPERIMENTAL HOUSE, INC. Dayton Castleman 206 S. 2ND ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (708) 837-4242 | EXPERIMENTALHOUSE.COM ORGANIZATIONS

VOWELL, INC. DBA AY MAGAZINE Vicki Vowell 910 W. 2ND ST., STE. 200 | LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 (501) 244-9700 | AYMAG.COM PUBLISHERS

FREEDOM DREAMER PHOTOGRAPHY Marsha Foster 211 W. ELM STREET | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 841-5539 | FREEDOMDREAMERPHOTO.COM PHOTOGRAPHERS & STUDIOS

Dr. Rita Shaojing Wu FAYETTEVILLE, AR 72703 (479) 966-6169 INDIVIDUALS

WELCOME WAGON Marcia Gillis SERVING NORTHWEST ARKANSAS (682) 367-4880 | WELCOMEWAGON.COM MARKETING & ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

HAAS HALL ACADEMY (OPENING AUGUST 2017) Dr. Martin Schoppmeyer 121 W. POPLAR ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 966-4930 | HAASHALL.ORG/ SCHOOLS - PUBLIC

SMITH HURST, PLC Kristin Baldwin 5100 WEST J.B. HUNT DRIVE., SUITE 830 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 301-2444 | SMITHHURST.COM/ ATTORNEYS - BUSINESS LAW

LIFESOURCE Amberly Gassman 602 S. SCHOOL AVENUE | FAYETTEVILLE, AR 72701 (479) 521-4000 | LIFESOURCEINTERNATIONAL.ORG/ ORGANIZATIONS

U.S. ARMY RECRUITING STATION SFC Jean Genereau 4500 W. WALNUT ST., STE. 5C | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 636-2591 | GOARMY.COM ORGANIZATIONS

MAGPIE BRIDGE APOTHECARY CAFÉ Shannon Heilmann 105 W. WALNUT ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 981-6271 | MAGPIEBRIDGECAFE.COM/ RESTAURANTS - ALL

V POINT SOLUTIONS, LLC Robin Hampton 317 N. 2ND ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 282-7337 | VPOINTSOLUTIONS.COM EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES/SERVICES

NEBRASKA FAMOUS STEAKS Kelly Shetlar (402) 884-7227 | FAMOUSSTEAKS.COM E-COMMERCE RETAILER

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

Platinum Sponsor |

Gold Sponsor |

Learn more about your Chamber of Commerce and the programs that benefit you and your business at Member Orientation. Here’s an opportunity to familiarize yourself and your employees with all of the benefits available through your Chamber membership. You’ll learn more about the Chamber’s website and how it helps to promote your business, and more about Chamber advertising media to incorporate into your marketing plan. It’s an excellent overview of Chamber networking events and other programs all designed to help grow your business and make the most of your membership. Please register as space is limited to the first 30 respondents.

SHAWN REED AFLAC BENEFITS COORDINATOR Shawn Reed ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 381-7689 INSURANCE

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | M AY 2 01 7

WOMEN’S PAVILION Teresa Riddle 122 S. 1ST ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 936-7050 | MYWOMENSPAVILION.COM BOUTIQUES & SPECIALTY SHOPS

March 2017 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 2017 Sponsor

Andy’s Frozen Custard 2205 W. Walnut St., Rogers

Hapa’s Hawaiian Bar & Grill 105 S. 3rd St., Rogers

Primrose School of Rogers 3724 S. Pinnacle Hills Pkwy., Rogers

R-Keys Inc. 2301 W. Walnut St., Ste. 23, Rogers

The Hive Wellness Group 209 W. Elm St., Rogers

World Event Center 1902 S. 8th St., Ste. 9-14, Rogers

YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS

DIGITAL MARKETING can be complicated

WE MAKE IT EASY BUILD A BRAND THAT CAN’T BE IGNORED 479-202-9903 • customerswhostick.com Ro g e rs Lowe l l . co m | M AY 2 01 7

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | March 2017 30+ years

AT&T - 71 years Pel Freez Arkansas, LLC - 64 years APAC-Central, Inc. McClinton Anchor Company - 51 years Guinn & Associates, CPA, PA - 46 years Decco Contractors-Paving, Inc. - 42 years The RoArk Group - 42 years Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette - 41 years ACE Glass - 40 years Lindsey & Associates - 38 years Stitt Energy Systems - 38 years Watkins, Boyer, Gray & Curry, PLLC - 38 years Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC - 38 years Simmons Bank - 37 years TWG Resources - 35 years Beaver Water District - 32 years Bradfrod Yard Living + Landscaping - 32 years Ozark Arts & Crafts Fair/The War Eagle Fair 32 years

21-30 years

Advantage Resourcing Evans Enterprises, Inc. First United Methodist Church Dr. Karla Gaines, DDS Glenn Neal Realty & Property Management KURM Radio Lost Springs Golf & Athletic Club, Inc. Multi-Craft Contractors, Inc. The Pentecostals of Northwest Arkansas Pinnacle Country Club Razorback Pipeline Company Regions Insurance, Inc. Ridout Lumber Yard State Farm Insurance - Alan Bauer Verser Cabinets of NWA Inc.

11-20 years

Adam J. Black Central States Manufacturing, Inc. Colliers International Crystal Hall DesignWorks Friday, Eldredge & Clark, LLP HEBCO, Inc. Home Instead Senior Care Howard, Mohorn & Associates MillerCoors New Hope Boarding & Grooming Pinnacle Car Services Pleasant Grove Self Storage Prairie Creek Auto Body Rogers Public Education Foundation Rogers-Bentonville Elks Lodge #2144 Steve Landers Toyota NWA Synergy Realty Group, LLC UNIFY Financial Credit Union

6-10 years

Aaron’s Sales & Leasing Alternative Beemer Service LLC American Standard Foundation Repair AMP Sign & Banner Ashley Furniture HomeStore Clear Energy, Inc Commercial Communications, Inc. Courthouse Concepts, Inc. Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill Driving Academy of NWA Ed Cooley Gallery George Nunnally Chevrolet, Inc. Girl Scouts - Diamonds AOT Guardian CPA Helen R. Walton Children’s Enrichment Center

ll Chamber members, volunteers, committee members, board members, and special friends are invited to the Chamber Picnic on Friday, June 2 at Ward Nail Park in Lowell from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event is free. Each year, Chamber members provide hours of community service, give discounts

Thank You to Our Current Sponsors

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | M AY 2 01 7

Jamestown Nursing & Rehabilitation McGaugh RV Center Northwest Arkansas Women’s Shelter Ozark Affiliate - Susan G. Komen for the Cure Penmac Staffing Services Pinnacle Media LLC / Univision Rodeo of the Ozarks Rush Running Single Parent Scholarship Fund of NWA Smokin’ Joes Ribhouse, Inc. Sunshine School & Development Center Trike Theatre U.S Small Buiness Administration Walmart Neighborhood Market Store #5837 Wild Birds Unlimited WorkSource & NTS

Lowell Veterinary Center Meister & McCracken Law Firm Mostyn Prettyman, PLLC Mt. Carmel Community in Rogers NWA Apartment Association Rick’s Bakery/Rick’s Streetside Studio SERC Physical Therapy Simply Divine Catering, LLC Skye On The Town Southwestern Energy Company SUP Outfitters Tie 1 On NWA, Inc Town and Country Plumbing, Inc. Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint Vantage Point Communications WorkMatters

2-5 years

1 year

The Baby’s Room Beginning Steps Stepfamily Coaching Best of Northwest Arkansas, Top 10 BJ’s Liquor Blew & Associates P.A. Brick Street Brews LLC Buster’s Liquor, Fine Wine, and Beer Casey’s General Store CMS Sealcoating & Linestriping, LLC Core Brewing Company - Rogers Brew Pub Crain Hyundai of Fayetteville Custom Design Hair Democrat Printing & Litho Designsteins MMG Discount Auto of Northwest Arkansas Freedom5:one Ministries Goodwill Industries of Arkansas Grace Hills Church Vickie Grotts Guess Who

The Dotted Pig Family Heritage - Rob McLean FLW Hair Addix NWA Honeycomb Kitchen Shop Labor of Love Graphics, LLC Loving Choices Pregnancy Center NWA Home Services Optimus Training & Development Ozark Beer Company Paschal Heat, Air & Geothermal Primrose Retirement Communities Red Rock Builders, LLC RidgepointeTownhouses, LLC Rogers Early Learning Center Senior Helpers Stockdale-Moody Funeral Service

Annual Chamber Picnic June 2 | Be Our Guest on goods needed for Chamber programs, and donate everything from snack cakes to fishing lures and all kinds of door prizes for Chamber events. The Chamber’s staff would like to show its gratitude for all the little things (and big things too) that our family and friends do by inviting everyone to the picnic for some food and fun!

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.

MAY 2, 2017

MAY 3, 2017

Chamber University Presenting Sponsor:

Sam’s Club

Co-Sponsor:

Sunrise Seminar Series Presenting Sponsor:

Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center

Presenting Sponsors: Golden Corral First Western

First Western

Host Sponsor:

Speakers:

Topic:

TBD from Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center

How to Start a Business in Arkansas (presented in Spanish)

Speakers:

Topic:

Lori Ann Lieblong

How to Develop Your Small Business Brand Strategy

with Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center

MAY 10, 2017

Sam’s Club

Platinum Sponsor:

Co-Sponsors:

Cherokee Casino & Hotel Celebrate Arkansas

Gold Sponsor:

Crain Automotive Team

Legacy Capital Group

Location:

Address: 317 W. Walnut St., Rogers

Crain Automotive Team

Location:

Address:

Crain Hyundai of Bentonville

3000 S.E. Moberly Ln., Bentonville

MAY 18, 2017

Presenting Sponsor:

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

MAY 9, 2017

Location:

Address:

CEI Engineering Associates, Inc.

3108 S.W. Regency Pkwy., Ste. 2, Bentonville

Donating door prizes for chamber events is an effective strategy to gain awareness of your business as well as showcase your products & services. If you’re interested in contributing a door prize to any of these events contact Claire Campbell at Claire@RogersLowell.com.

Advertising with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Your Banner Ad Here The Good Life

Advertise in the annual tourism and relocation print guide (also published online) featuring maps, restaurants and lodging lists, regional activities and attractions, and resources for visiting, living, working and playing in the Rogers-Lowell Area. Your message is printed in over 25,000 copies distributed to tourists, business travelers, new residents, current citizens and convention attendees. Call to reserve your space in the 2017-2018 issue now.

RogersLowell.com

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

Chamber Voice

Advertise and place promotional inserts in the monthly printed newsletter (also published online) that’s mailed to nearly 4,000 members at the first of each month. It’s an affordable and cost effective way to promote your business brand, products and services to decision-makers. Ads are due on the 10th and inserts due on the 15th of the month prior to each issue. Call for an Advertising Contract now.

eNewsletters

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

Ro g e rs Lowe l l . co m | M AY 2 01 7

317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 RogersLowell.com

Paid for through Periodical “Chamber Voice” (USPS 492950) is published monthly in January, February, March, May, June, July, August, September, October November and December; (semi-monthly in April) by the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc., 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756. Periodical postage paid at Rogers, AR. POSTMASTER send address changes to: ROGERS-LOWELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER, 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756.