Chamber Voice Newsletter | May 2019 by Rogers Lowell Chamber

May 2019 | Vol 14 Issue 5

T R ANS PL A CE E X PANS ION IN R O GER S TO CR E ATE J OB S F OR N O R THW E S T AR K ANS A S

See Story on Page 3

CHAM BER S TAF F

What’s In This Issue? 3 ��Transplace Expansion in Rogers to Create Jobs for Northwest Arkansas 4 ��2019 Fall | Chamber Event Guide Planner 5 ��Chamber Welcomes New Staff 5 ��Steve Cox Selected for U.S. Chamber Foundation Education and Workforce Fellowship Program

6 ��Small Business Council Celebrates National Small Business Week 7 ��Rogers Students Attend Senator Boozman’s Youth Cabinet Initiative on Workforce Development

8 ��Building a Strong, Vibrant, and Authentic Downtown 9 ��Celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week | May 5-11 9 ��Annual Chamber Picnic June 7 | Be Our Guest! 10 ��Congratulations 2019 Arvest First Leadership Program Graduates! 12 ��New Members | March 2019 12 ��Chamber’s B2B Networking Luncheon Helps Grow Contacts 13 ��Ribbon Cuttings March 2019 13 ��Congratulations to Our Ambassador of the First Quarter | Faye Fulton, Bowenwork Bodywork

14 ��Membership Renewals | March 2019 15 ��Chamber Networking & Educational Events

Raymond Burns, CCE J.R. Shaw

Katie Wright

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 RogersLowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc., 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756.

Sheree Barnes

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

Shelle Summers, IOM

Lauren Hildreth

Senior Vice President of Membership Services ssummers@rogerslowell.com

DTR Market Manager | Downtown Rogers, Inc. lauren@rogerslowell.com

Steve Cox

Jacque Eakins

Senior Vice President of Economic Development steve@rogerslowell.com

Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com

Brad Phillips

Marni Rogers

Senior Vice President of Marketing Communications brad@rogerslowell.com

Jon Moran

Member Relations Manager marni@rogerslowell.com

Kelly Parker

Senior Vice President of Government Affairs jon@rogerslowell.com

Marketing Communications Manager | Visit Rogers kelly@rogerslowell.com

Vickie Grotts

Luke Wiggins

Vice President of Accounting & Finance vickie@rogerslowell.com

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

Karen Wagaman

Jesse Cordova

Vice President of Downtown Development karen@rogerslowell.com

Tourism Sales Manager | Visit Rogers jesse@rogerslowell.com

Ross Phillips

Justin Freeman

Vice President of Community Development ross@rogerslowell.com

Marketing Communications Specialist justin@rogerslowell.com

Shey Bland

Lance Lloyd

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

Community Relations Manager lance@rogerslowell.com

Nick Smith

Ashley Matsumura

Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com

Customer Service Manager ashley@rogerslowell.com

BO ARD O F D IRE C TO R S EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Rogers-Lowell Area

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

Loretta Gomez

Finance Manager loretta@rogerslowell.com

Vice President of Operations katie@rogerslowell.com

2019 DIRECTORS

317 West Walnut Street | Rogers, Arkansas 72756

Director of Special Events jeff@rogerslowell.com

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

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

Chamber of Commerce

Jeff O’Neill

President/CEO rburns@rogerslowell.com

2020 DIRECTORS

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

2021 DIRECTORS

Tom Allen, Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners Ron Branscum, Citizens Bank David Kimball, Benchmark Group Jerra Nalley, Runway 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 Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Luxury Real Estate Redefined Jerry Carmichael, 3C Retail Solutions Irma Chavez, Conexion de Negocios Latino Larry Cooper, Embassy Suites NW Arkansas Russ Daniel, McLarty Daniel Group Rich Davis, Black Hills Energy Jesica Duarte, Walmart Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp. Sandy Edwards, Crystal Bridges Museum David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade David Foster, APAC-Central, Inc. Diego Garcia, Crafton Tull

Angela Grayson, Precipice IP Dan Hendrix, World Trade Center Arkansas Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers Tom Hopper, TallChamps, LLC Dr. Evelyn Jorgenson, NorthWest Arkansas Community College Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center Chris Moore, Mayor, City of Lowell Aaron Matthews, First Baptist Church of Lowell Barry Moehring, Benton County Judge Curt Stamp, Cox Business Dick Trammel, Chairman Emeritus Emma Willis, Arkansas 529 College Savings Plans Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods

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

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DIVISION CHAIRS

Community Development - Leah Acoach Membership Services - Jill Bright Economic Development - Payne Brewer Government Affairs - Jerry Carmichael Convention & Visitors Bureau - Larry Cooper

AUDIT COMMITTEE Jill Bright David Vaden Ron Branscum

Transplace Expansion

in Rogers to Create Jobs for Northwest Arkansas

ransplace, a leading provider of transportation management services and logistics technology solutions, broke ground March 27 on its new 150,000-square-feet facility in Rogers. The approximately 15-acre site is south of the Cedar Brook neighborhood on the recently-built Magnolia St., a new east-west artery that will eventually cross over Interstate 49 and connect to South 52nd St. The overpass is under construction and is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.

A DEEP HERITAGE IN THE REGION The state-of-the-art operations center will accommodate Transplace’s plans to add hundreds of new employees in the next several years and strengthen its ability to deliver comprehensive technology and logistics services to today’s supply chain. “Transplace has a deep heritage in Northwest Arkansas and has continued to expand its presence in the region over the past 20 years,” said Transplace CEO Frank McGuigan. “Continuing to invest in this area, which has become a global logistics hub, supports our company vision and goals, while building value for our growing customer base and creating attractive opportunities for employees.”

POSITIONING TO SUPPORT FUTURE GROWTH As the largest managed transportation service provider in North America, generating gross revenue of approximately $3.0 billion from more than 1,000 customers, Transplace has experienced tremendous growth in recent years – both organically and through strategic acquisition. The move to Rogers is expected to increase the number of workers to between 1,100 and 1,200, with an estimated $60 million in payroll. “I am pleased Transplace

Photos for this article provided by

Transplace’s CEO Frank McGuigan (right) speaks to Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson (left) and President/CEO of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Raymond Burns (center) at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Transplace expansion

has found the workforce and resources in Northwest Arkansas that will allow for their continued success and growth,” Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson said. “Arkansas has experience in the transportation industry and today’s technology sector, along with a dedicated, skilled workforce to meet this innovative company’s needs.” Expanding from approximately 80,000-square-feet to nearly double that size at the new location better positions the company to support future growth and provide greater size and scale for Transplace to better serve its customers. “We’re definitely sorry we couldn’t find anything for them in Lowell, but we are glad they stayed inside the state and specifically Northwest Arkansas,” Lowell Mayor Chris Moore said. “They are trying to get their Northwest Arkansas employees under one roof, and by the looks of it, they have a wonderful opportunity off the

interstate to do such a thing.” The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce played a key role in getting Transplace to Rogers, working with area leaders to make it happen. “Making this economic development project happen was a true community effort, said Raymond Burns, President/CEO of the Chamber. “We would like to thank our area leaders both elected and business for supporting this important project as well as supporting the continued growth of both our city and region.” Construction on the new facility is set to begin immediately, and Transplace is expected to move in by early 2021. “We are thankful for Transplace’s investment in Rogers and are excited to watch them grow,” said Rogers Mayor Greg Hines. “The new operations center will provide many new, high-paying jobs for the area and many benefits to the region, now and into the future.”

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2019 Fall | Chamber Event Guide Planner S AV E T H E D AT E S F O R T H E S E U P C O M I N G FA L L C H A M B E R E V E N T S

THANK-A-TEACHER CELEBRATION PRESENTED BY SAM’S FURNITURE

Wednesday, August 7 | 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Rogers High School | Rogers Learn More at RogersLowell.com Member Opportunities: • Donate Valuable Door Prizes for the Thank-ATeacher Celebration (minimum $50 Value) • Purchase Exhibit Booth space for the Celebration Fair & Appreciation Breakfast Presented by Hight Jackson Associates, P.A. | Booth Space $100 for nonprofits, $125 for members and $350 for non-members • Sponsor the Celebration and participate in the Prize Giveaway

WELCOME TEACHERS BACK TO SCHOOL! This is our fourth annual event that celebrates local teachers who are making a big difference in the world. Teachers give our children so much and use their classrooms as the first steps in educating the next generation of workforce that will keep our businesses and our community thriving well into the future. Though we can never thank them enough, this event is an opportunity to let them know how much we appreciate all that they do.

Downtown Rogers Sponsorships Now Available | Contact memberservices@rogerslowell.com This year, you’ll love what’s new and different at our family-friendly Frisco Festival in Downtown Rogers. Join us as we celebrate the Rogers-Lowell Area’s quality of life and culture. On Saturday, free and low-cost workshops and classes on food, arts, outdoors, and music “pop-up” at Downtown Rogers merchants. You can choose from a variety of experiential learning topics. Frisco Festival is always fun for everybody and there’s something going on all day for all ages including live performances from local musicians and the first-ever early morning Frisco Festival Lake Atalanta Walk. There’s also the DTR Market offering fresh fruits, vegetables and meats, and The Good Life Experience Marketplace featuring local businesses with products and services to make your life better. The Frisco Festival has been delighting people from all over for more than three decades and is named in honor of Rogers’ rich railroad heritage. From morning to night, you’ll find plenty to do – live music, street entertainment, kids’ zone, delicious food, art displays, and outdoor fun. The event is hosted by Downtown Rogers Inc. (DTR) and the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and honors our heritage, brings alive the best of Rogers today and celebrates The Good Life Experience that we all enjoy.

DONATE PRIZES & PURCHASE YOUR EXHIBIT BOOTH SPACE If you would like to donate a door prize to the Thank-A-Teacher Celebration, or sponsor the event, please contact Jeff O’Neill at (479) 636-1240. Booth space and sponsor booths are still available for the Celebration Fair & Appreciation Breakfast and may be purchased by visiting RogersLowell. com or contacting memberservices@rogerslowell. com. This is a great opportunity to present your products and services to more than 1,000 faculty and staff of the public schools, charter schools, private schools and the community college.

FRISCO FESTIVAL – CELEBRATING THE GOOD LIFE EXPERIENCE Friday, August 23 – Saturday, August 24

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ROGERS-LOWELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (RLACC) SPORTING CLAYS CLASSIC

Friday, October 11 | 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Flight Times Gunsmoke Sporting Clays | Garfield Team of Four $400 (Includes Ammo & Goodie Bag) Sponsorships Now Available Register at RogersLowell.com The third annual RLACC Sporting Clays Classic 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. Shooters receive continental breakfast, lunch, snacks, ammo, goodie bags 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.

“NETWORKING WITH A PURPOSE” NON-PROFIT SHOWCASE AT BUSINESS AFTER HOURS NORTHWEST ARKANSAS FALL JOB FAIR

Wednesday, October 2 | 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Frisco Station Mall | Rogers Trade Show Exhibit Booths | $250 (Members) and $400 (Non-Members) Sponsorships Now Available Register at RogersLowell.com Each fall employers get a head start on hiring for the holidays at the Northwest Arkansas Fall Job Fair, sponsored by Glad Manufacturing. Job seekers take advantage of this great opportunity to meet one-on-one with local Human Resource professionals who understand what it takes to get hired, meet with employers and hand out their resumes. The job fair typically attracts 500+ job seekers and features 60+ employers and businesses.

Thursday, October 17 | 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Center for Nonprofits @ St. Mary’s | Rogers Purchase Trade Show Exhibit Booth Space | $100 (Members) and $150 (Non-Members) Imagine a Business After Hours event that features local non-profits by combining networking with trade show exhibits showcasing non-profit organizations in Northwest Arkansas. That’s the “Networking with a Purpose” Non-Profit Showcase at Business After Hours event sponsored by Cox Business. In its fourth 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.

Chamber Welcomes New Staff

LORETTA GOMEZ

LANCE LLOYD

JESSE CORDOVA

Loretta Gomez joined the Chamber in March as the Finance Manager, just two weeks after moving to the Northwest Arkansas area from Mountain Home. She brings 25 years of successful experience in finance, human resources, and administrative duties. Loretta has always held a passion for finance and is excited to bring her experience to the chamber team. She has had the opportunity of being a CFO for an advertising agency as well as a tax preparer for H&R Block (and shows off when her family has trouble counting domino’s). Loretta enjoys spending time with friends, family, and her husband of 17 years – Erbey Gomez. Together they enjoy the outdoors, kayaking, camping and hiking.

Lance Lloyd joined in March as the Community Relations Manager. Before joining the Chamber, Lance was a News Reporter with KNWA in Fayetteville and brings years of experience working both in front of the camera as well as behind the scenes. Being born and raised in Northwest Arkansas, Lance is eager to continue working with cities, businesses and community members to help improve the Rogers-Lowell area while being the voice for business. On the weekends Lance enjoys spending time with family and friends, being active in the local sports community and hitting the water on Beaver Lake.

Jesse Cordova joined the Visit Rogers team in April as the Tourism Sales Manager. He comes from a sports and marketing background, having spent more than six years in sports media/ journalism in Southwest Missouri and just under four years at a marketing agency in Bentonville. In his role with Visit Rogers, Jesse will be helping to attract sporting events and group tours from all over the country to Rogers. In his free time, Jesse enjoys watching sports and taking his wife, Tracy, and their two daughters to see all the things that make Rogers (and Northwest Arkansas, in general) a great place to live.

FINANCE MANAGER

COMMUNITY RELATIONS MANAGER

TOURISM SALES MANAGER |VISIT ROGERS

Steve Cox Selected for U.S. Chamber Foundation Education and Workforce Fellowship Program The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation announced in late March that Steve Cox, Senior Vice President of Economic Development for the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, was selected to participate in the second cohort of its premiere business leadership program. The Business Leads Fellowship Program trains and equips leaders from state and local chambers of commerce with resources, access to experts, and a network of peers to build their capacity to address the most pressing education and workforce challenges. “I’m honored to have been chosen to participate in this program,” said Cox. “This training will help the RogersLowell Area Chamber of Commerce to be the best possible resource for our business community in Rogers and Lowell and help us address the changing needs of workforce development throughout the Northwest Arkansas region.” “We created the Business Leads Fellowship Program in response to the needs of our state and local chamber partners,” said Cheryl Oldham, Senior Vice President of the Center for Education and Workforce. “They, better than anyone, see the critical link between education and economic development, and we are glad to be able to support them as they take on this critical leadership role in their community.” Following a competitive application and selection process, Cox was selected along with 33 other state and local chamber executives to participate in the second class of this program. The three-month program, which concludes in July 2019, will cover the entire talent pipeline, including early childhood education, K-12, higher education, and workforce development. Upon completion, Business Leads Fellows will join the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s dedicated network of 200 chambers of commerce and statewide associations from around the nation who regularly engage on education and workforce initiatives.

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Small Business Council Celebrates National Small Business Week

or more than 50 years, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. Small Business Week is May 5-11, 2019.

The Small Business Council of the Chamber is celebrating this week by showcasing small businesses throughout the area. During the month of April, members of the Small Business Council went out into our region to interview Chamber small business members about their experiences as small business owners. The interviews were sent to the Chamber’s marketing and communications team to be released throughout Small Business Week on

the Chamber’s social media pages. These Small Business Spotlights celebrate and recognize the vital role small businesses play in our local, state, and national economy. The entire Chamber staff wishes to say thank you to the Small Business Council for your efforts to showcase area small businesses. We also want to say thank you to our small business members for continuing to make our cities and region vibrant and an ideal place to live, work, and play.

2019 Small Business Council

Visit exhibitor booths focused on all aspects of women's health from physical to financial and hear from a distinguished panelists forum moderated by Jennifer Peñate with KNWA on all aspects of women's health.

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Rogers Students Attend Senator Boozman’s Youth Cabinet Initiative on Workforce Development

ncreasing awareness of Career and Technical Education (CTE), current and projected local workforce demands and opportunities for students to participate in authentic career/ work-related experiences are three important factors having a positive impact on preparing students for successful careers. Three students from Rogers New Technology High School recently presented to Senator John Boozman as part of a Congressional Youth Cabinet Initiative. Austin Abercrombie, Beautiful Reliford and Jada Portillo were among twelve students from the 3rd Congressional District that participated in Senator Boozman’s workforce development project. Students met with Senator Boozman on March 29 at the State Capitol in Little Rock.

ENGAGING THE CURRENT GENERATION Beautiful, a junior at Rogers New Technology High School, explained that one goal of the project was to encourage the current generation to “be more involved in politics and the decision-making processes through the research of current topics effecting young adults in today’s society.” During their meeting with Senator Boozman, students presented information and research data related to current issues including workforce development, the opioid epidemic and drone regulations.

STUDENT FINDINGS AND LEARNINGS “Throughout the course of our research,

we found NWA to be a shining example of how workforce development should be done when it comes to connecting schools to the workforce,” said Austin. To learn more about how schools and businesses are working together, Austin and Jada attended the NWA Regional Advisory Council Meeting held at NWACC in March. The goal of the meeting was to bring educators, workforce development representatives and business/industry leaders together to discuss strategies designed to help insure that students are prepared for the 21st Century workplace and to meet local workforce demands. When asked what he learned from the meeting, Austin explained, “We learned that of the 13,000 open job positions in Northwest Arkansas, only 20 percent of them require a four-year college degree. We also learned that students can go take classes throughout high school that give them the knowledge and skills that they need to get into a field where they can make over $50,000 a year as soon as they graduate.” The three students also met with Joe Rollins, Director of Workforce Development at the NWA Council to learn more about specific areas that are experiencing the greatest workforce demand and the different routes that students can take to achieve career goals. Jada shared her findings with Senator Boozman including this note, “According to recent data, just in Benton County alone, over 60 percent of

students go to college, 30 percent leave with a college degree.” She explained that students do not want only a “This OR this option,” but rather, a “This AND This option” that will offer them multiple opportunities and routes to successful jobs and careers.

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR SUCCESSFUL TRANSITIONS The importance of CTE continues to gain momentum within the NWA region, the state and across the nation. The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act was passed in July 2018 and requires a collaborative approach to the development of career programs. NWA business and industry leaders, advisory council members, local and state agencies, post-secondary representatives, parents and students will all serve as valuable stakeholders and resources to educators as action plans are developed to insure continued improvement within CTE programs. Working collaboratively with all stakeholders to “close the gap” between the classroom and the career field will help insure students are prepared for a success transition to college and/or a career upon graduation from high school. To learn more about opportunities to participate in advisory council and career program stakeholder meetings, contact Dawn Stewart at (479) 636-3910.

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Building a Strong, Vibrant and Authentic Downtown

he Chamber’s Downtown Development division is the primary point-of-contact for economic development in Downtown Rogers. Its mission is focused on increasing the number of businesses, employees, and residential properties in the downtown core. The team is responsible for cultivating strong relations with existing businesses and government entities, identifying opportunities to activate underutilized properties, connecting potential partnerships and facilitating business relations to maximize resources for downtown and the surrounding community. The division provides resources and helps implement the Downtown Rogers Master Plan initiative to help new and existing businesses make Downtown Rogers a more vibrant community to live, work and play.

downtown. A prime example of this is the renovated Lake Atalanta, which is drawing cyclists, joggers, runners, families, fishermen, photographers and more. The improvements to the bike trails and the Railyard Bike Park are attracting people from throughout the region and beyond.

DOWNTOWN ROGERS DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS

MORE THAN SHOPPING – IT’S AN EXPERIENCE “ON THE BRICKS”

Downtown Rogers is experiencing significant increases of development activities including renovations and new businesses. The City of Rogers is engaged in projects related to parking and street design to better showcase the walkability of downtown. This is key to the growth of the area. In addition to being extremely walkable, 53 Downtown Rogers businesses are dog friendly. Retail shops, offices, restaurants and bars with outdoor seating, even art galleries welcome patrons when accompanied by their K9 companions and the community is loving it! The planned renovation of Railyard Park, formerly Frisco Park, will be a major draw to

A total of 47 downtown businesses offer an experience beyond just selling goods and services. These range from art and cooking classes, live music, art exhibitions, dance and fitness classes, corporate team building, outdoor experiences and games or other competitive sports. The monthly Downtown Rogers Art on the Bricks Art Walk enjoys participation by 30+ businesses located on Arkansas St., 1st St., 2nd St., 3rd St., Walnut St., and Elm St. People are discovering these businesses for the first time because merchants have worked to integrate the exhibition of art and live music into downtown experiences.

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ACTIVATING UNDERUTILIZED DOWNTOWN PROPERTIES

• 39 new businesses opened in Downtown Rogers in 2018 • 10 new businesses opened in the first quarter of 2019 • 22 more new businesses are scheduled to open this year • 6 commercial properties are ready to sell or lease • 11 commercial properties undergoing rehab • 17 commercial properties are available to sell or lease that need major renovations

VICTORY ROW EXPERIENCE DISTRICT The City of Rogers Downtown Master Plan suggests 2nd Street serve as the Victory Row Experience District. Among the amenities are: The Arkansas Public Theatre at the Victory Theater, Daisy Museum, Anime Café, Los Palmas and Levi’s restaurants, Ed Cooley Gallery, Cooking Studio of Downtown Rogers, Studio 300 and Ozark Axe House as well as the newly restored Rogers Historical Museum. Also adjacent to 2nd are The Rogers Experimental House and Haas Hall. Most recent developments are taking place on North 2nd Street between Wood Street and Olive as well as activity in the 100 block of Walnut. While there is a lot of development going on with rent and purchase prices moving upward, Downtown Rogers is still a tremendous value.

DEMAND GROWING FOR DOWNTOWN RESIDENTIAL SPACE According to a recent study commissioned by the Walton Family Foundation, the average sale price for commercial property in Downtown Rogers increased more than 40 percent from 2012 to 2016. The study revealed that the limited number of residents who live in Downtown Rogers has the highest median income of the five downtowns included in the study. The expansion of retail and restaurant space, redevelopment of entertainment venues and the recent addition of two schools are creating demand for more residential space. With a near zero percent vacancy rate for apartments, there are plans for development of at least three or four apartment complexes in 2019 and 2020.

Celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week | May 5-11

stablished in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan, National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is the annual salute to travel in America. May 5-11, the travel industry is coming together to celebrate why “Travel Matters,” spotlighting a different way travel matters each day to American jobs, economic growth and personal well-being. In 2018 travel generated $2.5 trillion for the U.S. Economy resulting in $171 billion in tax revenue for federal, state, and local governments. Without these travel-generated tax revenues, each American household would pay an average of $1,340 more in taxes every year to maintain the same level of services. Last year, travel supported 15.7 million jobs, which accounts for one out of every 10 jobs in American. Travel not only matters economically,

travel matters to our families and serves as an important component to self-care. Sixty-two (62) percent of U.S. adults say their earliest, most vivid memories are of family vacations taken between the ages of five and 10. Americans taking all or most of their vacation days to travel report being 20 percent happier with their personal relationships and 56 percent happier with their health and well-being than those who travel with little or none of their vacation time.

TOURISM MATTERS TO ARKANSAS AND ROGERS Tourism is Arkansas’s second largest industry. In 2017, Arkansas welcomed 29.4 million visitors who spent $7.87 billion while here experiencing all The Natural State has to offer. Tourism is also big business in Rogers,

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.

Reminder – Don’t Forget to Assess by May 31

WAYS TO ASSESS | ONLINE, BY PHONE, AND IN PERSON BENTON COUNTY Benton County residents may assess online at bentoncountyar.gov or over the phone (479) 271-1033. You may also assess in person at 1428 W. Walnut in Rogers, 215 E. Central Ave. in

creating economic impact across a wide spectrum of industries, from lodging and retail to transportation, recreation, and restaurant food and beverage. According to tourism research firm Longwoods International, 3.5 million personal trips were taken to Rogers in 2016, generating $201.8 million in spending in our community. Tourism supports over 3,600 jobs in Benton County, and generates over $34.2 million in state and local taxes. These substantial contributions to our city, state, and country are why Visit Rogers and its partners celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week. Tourism helps everyone to discover why Rogers is “Where Possible Lives.” Tourism brings economic vitality to our local communities and invites others to experience The Good Life in Northwest Arkansas. Bentonville, 901 1st Ave. SE in Gravette, or 707 S. Lincoln St. in Siloam Springs.

WASHINGTON COUNTY 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 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.

Annual Chamber Picnic June 7 | Be Our Guest!

ll Chamber members, volunteers, committee members, board members, and special friends are invited to the Chamber Picnic on Friday, June 7 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 on goods needed for Chamber programs, and donate everything from snack cakes to furniture 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! Be our guest! Please RSVP for the picnic before end of day May 31 by visiting RogersLowell.com or calling (479) 636-1240.

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Congratulations 2019 Arvest First Leadership Program Graduates!

he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is proud of the 2019 Arvest First Leadership program graduates! Over the past nine months, 17 students from Rogers High School, Rogers Heritage High School, and Rogers New Technology High School learned about leadership through higher education, social media, government, entrepreneurship, finances, and community service. The program introduced students to leadership skills, built their selfesteem, explored career paths and developed their interpersonal skills.

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF OUR COMMUNITY The purpose of the program is to invest in the future of our community by providing a student-focused program of innovative strategies to promote participant growth and leadership opportunities. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors residing in Rogers are eligible to apply, and should meet the following requirements: a minimum 2.5 GPA; display of leadership potential yet not overly involved in extra-curricular activities; maintenance of a passing grade in all courses during participation in the program; and the ability to attend all Arvest First Leadership sessions. Other desired qualities include a need or desire to be involved, a sense of community interest, the ability to work well with peers, and a desire to serve as a positive influence on peers. The free program runs from September April, holding one meeting per month. For more information about the program contact Ross Phillips at ross@rogerslowell.com.

From Left to Right: Samantha Solorza, Juan Salas, Edgar Canales, Shakira Haro, Jesus Ballesteros, Karla Morales, Benjamin Burdess, Jacob Cruz, David Jurado, Austin Abercrombie, Adam Siwiec, Allyson Hayes, Aleida Salas, Nayeli Ortiz, Ruby Reyes, Holly Frost, Kaitlyn Biggs

Arvest First Leadership students summarize the yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program at their graduation ceremony on April 9

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 | 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. FRISCO STATION MALL | 100 N. Dixieland Rd., Rogers The Chamber's Northwest Arkansas Job Fairs (Spring and Fall), this year presented by Glad Manufacturing Company, are the largest and longest running Job Fairs in Arkansas. This is a great opportunity for businesses to get a jump start on hiring for the summer as well as full-time employment opportunities. Availability will be on a first-come first-served basis so reserve your booth today to ensure access to the hundreds of job seekers expected to attend.

Presented by |

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For more information or to register a booth visit

ROGERSLOWELL.COM

ALL YOU NEED UNDER ONE ROOF Cherokee Casino & Hotel West Siloam Springs is the destination to find all your needs in one place. It’s your home away from home and all-in-one entertainment venue. Between our comfortable rooms, live concerts in SEVEN, and delicious buffet and steakhouse, you’ll feel like you never want to leave. U.S. Highway 412 & 59, West Siloam Springs, OK 800.754.4111 | CherokeeCasino.com

Know your limits. Gambling problem? Call 800.522.4700.

Ro g e rs Lowe l l . co m | M AY 2 01 9

NEW MEMBERS | March 2019 ADULT DAY NWA (OPENING SOON)

BOOKKEEPER PLUS, LLC

JAVA DUDES COFFEE COMPANY (OPENING SOON) U.S. LAWSHIELD Dustin Breazeale 718 N. 2ND ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (817) 456-3884 | FIND US ON FACEBOOK COFFEE HOUSES

Tom Harmon 1020 BAY AREA BLVD., STE. 220 | HOUSTON, TX 77058 (479) 721-0611 | USLAWSHIELD.COM LEGAL SERVICES

ALEXANDER REALTIME REPORTING, LLC

COUSINS’ OFFICE FURNITURE

LOANDEPOT

VALVOLINE INSTANT OIL CHANGE

AMERICAN SHARPENING & SUPPLY

EDEN’S FLOWER TRUCK

NATURAL STATE PEST CONTROL

Mary Schopp ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 633-1735 | FIND US ON LINKEDIN ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICE

Sara Scott 100 N. DIXIELAND RD. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 855-4449 | VILLAGEHOUSEBELLAVISTA.COM ORGANIZATIONS

Blake Robertson 2700-1 W. WALNUT ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 372-6484 | COUSINSFURNITURE.COM OFFICE SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT & FURNITURE

Sheila Alexander ROGERS, AR 72757 (479) 631-3888 | ALEXANDERREALTIME.VPWEB.COM LEGAL SERVICES Joe Talarski 300 W. BEACON INDUSTRIAL PARK RD. | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 631-6871 | AMERICANSHARPENINGUSA.COM TOOLS - SERVICE & REPAIRS

ARKANSAS ACUPUNCTURE CENTER

Lizbeth Ryan 1501 S.E. WALTON BLVD., STE. 201 | BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 464-4000 | MACUPUNCTURE.COM ACUPUNCTURE

ART COLLECTIVE GALLERY

James Forman 228 S. 1ST ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (818) 554-6949 | ARTCOLLECTIVEGALLERY.COM ART GALLERIES

Eden Garrett ROGERS, AR 72756 (870) 688-0721 | EDENSFLOWERTRUCK.COM FLORIST

IT’S A SECRET MED SPA

Haley Tarkington 3379 N. COLLEGE AVE., STE. 2 | FAYETTEVILLE, AR 72703 (479) 301-2229 | SECRETMEDSPA.COM 5001 PAULINE WHITAKER PKWY., STE. 115 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 202-6900 | SECRETMEDSPA.COM SPA THERAPIES

J AND S INCOME TAX

AUSSIE PET MOBILE OF NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

Juan Vallejo 400 S. 8TH ST., STE. J | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 636-3769 | JS-INCOME-TAX-LTD-COM.BUSINESS.SITE ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICE

(OPENING SOON) Mark Shaffer 4511 W HILLSIDE DR. | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 531-5690 DOG GROOMING

Craig Overton 609 S.W. 8TH ST., STE. 600 | BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 321-7152 | LOANDEPOT.COMCOVERTON MORTGAGE LOANS & BANKERS Trent Ragar 223 E. MONROE AVE. | LOWELL, AR 72745 (479) 927-6350 | NATURALSTATEPESTCONTROL.COM PEST CONTROL SERVICES

NEXTHOME NWA PRO REALTY

Patrick Kuhlman 1401 S.W. 14TH ST., STE. 3 | BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 418-3000 | NEXTHOMENWA.COM REAL ESTATE - COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

OZARK AXE HOUSE

Michele Caissie 3501 W. WALNUT ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 936-7500 | VIOC.COM 2100 W. PLEASANT GROVE RD. | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 372-4999 | VIOC.COM AUTOMOBILE REPAIRS & SERVICE

WARREN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Ryan Warren 4805 HIGHLAND KNOLLS RD., STE. 200 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 372-7708 | FIND US ON FACEBOOK CHIROPRACTORS

WILLTECH ENTERPRISES, INC.

Bill O’Hare SILOAM SPRINGS, AR 72761 (479) 524-2422 | WILLTECH.COM SECURITY - PRODUCTS, SYSTEMS & BURGLAR ALARMS

John Rippl 718 N. 2ND ST., STE. 102 | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 372-4053 | OZARKAXEHOUSE.COM RECREATION

OZARK COMPREHENSIVE DENTISTRY

Dr. Ettienne van Zyl 701 S. HORSEBARN RD., STE. 102 | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 372-4500 | DREVANZYL.COM DENTISTS/DENTAL LABS/DENTAL CARE

Chamber’s B2B Networking Luncheon PRES ENT I NG Helps Grow Contacts S PO NS OR

ore than 50 networkers showed up at the NorthWest Arkansas Community College April 10 for some speed networking at the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce’s B2B Networking Luncheon. The event, held each quarter, enables employees to grow their professional network of contacts by advertising their business, selling their products and services, and quickly getting to know other businesses.

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | M AY 2 01 9

SPEED NETWORKING | HOW IT WORKS Six business representatives are seated at a table. Each participant at the table has two minutes to promote his or her products and services. Participants are then rotated to two other tables, allowing them to network with at least 18 participants during the round robin rotations. Attendees hand out business cards, brochures, product samples and promotional items. The ticket included a featured speaker

LewisSuperStore.com

presentation, lunch,company marketing and a chance to win some great door prizes. Some businesses purchased a vendor exhibit table which gave them VIP access to display their products and services. The next B2B Networking Luncheon will be held on September 18. For more information, contact Jeff O’Neill, Director of Special Events at jeff@rogerslowell.com or (479) 619-3190.

March 2019

ARKANSAS ARTS ACADEMY 1110 POPLAR ST., ROGERS

SPA BOTANICA

3303 S. PINNACLE HILLS PKWY., ROGERS

MERCY CLINIC OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY 3333 PINNACLE HILLS PKWY., STE. 600, ROGERS

TELECOMP

5104 S. PINNACLE HILLS PKWY., ROGERS

NATURAL STATE BEER COMPANY 5214 W. VILLAGE PARKWAY, ROGERS

TRANSPLACE

MAGNOLIA RD., ROGERS

Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

PHO 85 NOODLE HOUSE 104 N. 12TH ST., ROGERS

WARREN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

4805 HIGHLAND KNOLLS RD., STE. 200, ROGERS

Congratulations to Our Ambassador of the First Quarter | Faye Fulton, Bowenwork Bodywork

aye Fulton (pictured) is a Certified Bowenwork Practitioner and the CEO/ Owner of Bowenwork Bodywork. Bowenwork is a unique, holistic approach to healing and pain relief. It is a gentle, soft tissue relaxation technique that stimulates the Autonomic Nervous System allowing the body to re-balance and heal itself. Bowenwork allows the body to physiologically respond to stimuli -- the stimuli are the moves the Bowenwork Practitioner performs. It is a technique for those who want a holistic approach as Bowenwork works with the body’s innate healing mechanisms. In addition to being a Bowenwork Practitioner, Faye is a Professional Storyteller. With over twenty-five years of storytelling experience, Faye frequently works with nonprofits. She conducts fundraising events which are centered

on stories. It is a unique and extraordinary way to help people connect to a nonprofit’s cause and increase fundraising efforts. Faye also conducts storytelling workshops and works with business owners and leaders to write original, customized stories to help their businesses grow, further their career, enhance customer relationships, and increase marketing efforts. Faye tells stories she writes herself at corporate events, fundraisers, conferences, festivals, museums, and other venues. She is a long-standing member of the National Speakers Association, a published author, and her stories can be heard on NPR stations. For more information about her professional storytelling go to http://www.FayeFulton.com One of the reasons Faye joined the Chamber and became an Ambassador is because she is new

to Northwest Arkansas. She is very interested in meeting people, becoming involved in her new community, and supporting local businesses.

Ro g e rs Lowe l l . co m | M AY 2 01 9

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | March 2019 30+ YEARS

Rogers Iron & Metal Corporation - 60 years Black Hills Energy - 53 years Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC - 41 years Matthews, Campbell, Rhoads, McClure & Thompson, P.A. - 39 years Prairie Creek Marina - 39 years Beaver Lake Aviation - 32 years Rogers Apartments - 32 years

21-30 YEARS

Bank of Arkansas Dennis Electric. Inc. Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Literacy Council of Benton County Inc. Pel Freez Arkansas, LLC The Pentecostals of Northwest Arkansas Rainbow Cycle and Marine, Inc. Razorback Pipeline Company Dr. Robert R. Hull, MD PA Showcase Trophy & Awards LLC Smith Family Clinic Tallchamps LLC Wittenberg, Delony & Davidson

11-20 YEARS

Arrowhead Boat Sales BancorpSouth Ins. Services, Inc. Belford Group Boys & Girls Club of Benton County - Rogers Unit Bryan University Camp Bow Wow Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill DesignWorks Dynamic Storage Fleming Electric, Inc. Harding University Northwest Arkansas Harps Food Store #117 HEBCO, Inc. The House of Prayer Hudson Appraisals, Inc. Hull Dermatology & Aesthetics KLRC Radio Legacy National Bank Lindsey & Associates - Martha Prowell/ The Prowell Team Little Sunshine’s Playhouse MainStay Suites McGhee Insurance NWA PRO Clean Retail Design Collaborative

Scott Family Amazeum UL Weichert Realtors - The Griffin Company

6-10 YEARS

Core States Group Corporate Business Systems of NW Arkansas Courthouse Concepts, Inc. Girl Scouts - Diamonds AOT Helen R. Walton Children’s Enrichment Center La Finca Market LeaderOne Financial Santos Chiropractic Trike Theatre

2-5 YEARS

Atwood Design Brick Street Brews LLC The Dotted Pig Edward Jones - Don Ogden, Financial Advisor European Wax Center Federal Protection, Inc. Foundation Specialties, Inc. Vickie Grotts Hair Addix NWA Honeycomb Kitchen Shop

Imperial Coffee Service Kutak Rock LLP Labor of Love Graphics, LLC Longhorn Steakhouse Onyx Coffee Lab Ozark Mountain Trading Co. & Outfitters Paradigm Advisors LLC Primrose Retirement Communities Raising Cane’s Rausch Coleman Homes Red Feather Productions LLC RockHouse Industries Inc. TCBY Frozen Yogurt The UPS Store Women’s Pavilion Workmatters Laura Wright

1 YEAR

CarpetsPlus ColorTile NWA Comfort Systems USA (Arkansas), Inc. Ignite Chiropractic, PLLC Leaf to Soil Mark’s NWA Homes For Sale With Keller Williams Market Pro Realty Olde World Door/Earlybird Creative

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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.

Featured Networking Events

Bu si n e s s Qu i c k R e f eren c e C al en dar | MAY Business Building Events

MAY

Presented By | Scooter’s Coffee & Servpro Hosted By | Fairfield Inn & Suites of Rogers Address | 4611 W. Rozell St., Rogers

MAY

5.2 | Small Business Council Meeting 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

MAY

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

MAY

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

MAY

5.8 | Visit Rogers Advertising & Promotion Commission Meeting 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

MAY

5.9 | Hustle in Heels - Healthy Hustlers | Women’s Health Forum 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | NWACC Shewmaker Center for Workforce Technologies

MAY

5.9 | Ambassador Meeting 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

MAY

5.14 | Coffee Connection 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. | Fairfield Inn & Suites of Rogers

MAY

5.15 | Chamber Tutorial 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

MAY

5.16 | Joint Business After Hours with the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners

MAY

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

MAY

5.31 | The Chamber Golf Tournament presented by Pinnacle Hills Promenade 8:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. Tee Times | Shadow Valley Country Club

02 02

08 08

14 15

MAY

Hosted by | Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners Co-Sponsored By | Centennial Bank, Celebrate Arkansas, and Aloft Rogers Bentonville Address | 5100 W. JB Hunt Dr., Ste. 800, Rogers

View complete calendar at RogersLowell.com

MAY

Presented By | The Arkansas 529 College Investment Plans Hosted By | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Address | 317 W. Walnut St., Rogers

Upcoming Meetings

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Pinnacle Hil

ls Promenad

e Presents

FRIDAY, MAY 31 | 2019

Shadow Valley Country Club | 7001 Shadow Valley Rd., Rogers Every Wednesday Presented By | Benchmark Group May Host Sponsor | Ignite Chiropractic, PLLC Location | Golden Corral in Rogers 2605 W Pleasant Crossing Dr., Rogers

TREAT YOURSELF, REWARD EMPLOYEES & SAY THANK YOU TO CLIENTS Join us Friday, May 31, for the 2019 Chamber Golf Tournament, presented by Pinnacle Hills Promenade. This is a four-person scramble with shotgun start times of 8:00 a.m. and 1:30 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, SNACKS, BEVERAGES & DELICIOUS FOOD Players can test their skills in the hole-in-one, longest drive, closest-to-the-pin, Chippo, and putting contests. Prizes will be awarded for top finishing teams and individual contest winners. Each golfer will receive two complimentary adult beverage tickets, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. Breakfast will be served for the morning golfers. Lunch will be provided to every golfer.

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE NOW Not a golfer? Sponsoring the 2019 Chamber 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.

Ro g e rs Lowe l l . co m | M AY 2 01 9

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.