voice of business · jon moran vice president of government affairs [email protected] judy...
TRANSCRIPT
The Chamber is celebrating its 94th year as the premier advocacy organization for business in the Rogers-Lowell Area. Since 1922, we have worked to promote a healthy and vibrant economy while protecting and advancing the interests of our members and the community as a whole. We are the Voice of Business.
In 2016, we pledge to continue working to build business through job creation and expansion, while also protecting business and representing our members’ interests at the local, state and federal levels. We’ll offer members hundreds of business-building events and educational programs throughout the year. We’ll continue to solve critical issues by working regionally.
Take some time to learn more about your Chamber’s specific programs and goals for 2016 in this Business Plan issue of the Chamber Voice. Together, let’s build upon our successes from 2015 and continue to make the Rogers-Lowell Area a great place to live, work and play.
Page
2 Events and Meetings Community Development Welcome New Members | December 2015 & January 2016
Economic Development Marketing Communications Ribbon Cuttings | December 2015 &January 2016
Economic Development Continued Visit Rogers Membership Renewals | December 2015 & January 2016
Government Affairs Small Business Corner | Small Business Start-Up Summit Chamber Networking & Educational Events
Membership Services25th Annual Bradford Marine & ATV Buddy Bass Tournament; NWA Spring Job Fair; 2016 Spring Golf Tournament
Page
7Page
12Page
3Page
8Page
13Page
4Page
9Page
14Page
5Page
10Page
15Page
6Page
11 RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 1
2 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016
3.3Small Business Council Meeting8:30 a.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
3.9Rogers Advertising & Promotion Commission4:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
3.9First Leadership Personal Finance Session4:00 p.m – 7:30 p.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
3.11Large Industry Council Meeting11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
3.16First Leadership Steering Committee4:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.Rogers New Technology High School
3.17Board of Directors Meeting11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
3.17Ambassadors Monthly Meeting11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
3.2Sunrise Seminar Series | “Healthcare Reform Update for Small Employers”8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
3.8Coffee Connection7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.Hosted by The Razorback Foundation, Inc. at Professional Business Systems-PBS in Bentonville
3.16Member Orientation8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
3.17Business After Hours5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.Promenade Apartments at Pinnacle Hills
3.29Chamber University - Small Business Start-Up Summit9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
business-building events designed for you
upcoming meetings
staff
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.
View complete calendarat RogersLowell.com
Rogers-Lowell AreaChamber of Commerce317 West Walnut StreetRogers, Arkansas 72756
P: (479) 636-1240 F: (479) 636-5485
For information on other upcoming events visit the complete calendar online at RogersLowell.com
For information on other meetings including the Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders and Leadership Benton County go to the complete calendar online at RogersLowell.com
Raymond Burns, CCEPresident/CEO
J.R. ShawExecutive Director/Senior Vice President | Visit Rogers
Shelle Summers, IOMSenior Vice President of Membership Services
Steve CoxSenior Vice President of Economic Development
Vickie GrottsVice President of Accounting & Finance
Brad PhillipsVice President of Marketing Communications
Jon MoranVice President of Government Affairs
Judy DiffeeFinance Manager
Nick SmithCreative Services Manager
Brooklynn WileyDirector of Special Events
Amy GoberDirector of Community Development
Jacque EakinsAccount Executive
Marni RogersMember Relations Manager
Erin JerniganConvention Sales Manager | Visit Rogers
Kelly ParkerSports & Tourism Marketing Manager | Visit Rogers
Katie WrightAssistant to the [email protected]
Ashley MatsumuraInformation Specialist
Amanda MillsInformation Specialist
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEChairman of the Board – Nick Hobbs, JB HuntChairman-Elect – David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills PromenadeTreasurer – Eric Pianalto– Mercy NWAPast Chairman – Mike Watts, FM CorporationPresident/CEO – Raymond BurnsRIDC President – Jerry Vest, Regions Bank
2016 DIRECTORS Greg Fogle, Nabholz ConstructionDavid Hale, Digital Printing SolutionsRick McWhirt, Bekaert CorporationJeff Ratcliff, Big Heart Pet BrandsCameron Smith, Cameron Smith & AssociatesAngie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker Furniture & Appliance
2017 DIRECTORS Tabi Lipscomb, Arvest Benton CountyJeff Wood, Tyson Foods Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Real EstateMauricio Herrera, Legal Center of NWA J.D. Davis, AMP Sign & BannerFrank Bailey, Bailey & Oliver Law Firm
2018 DIRECTORS Jon Harrell, First Bank of ArkansasKeri Earwood, Shelter InsuranceJeff Milford, AEP/SWEPCOTina Winham, NUK – USADennis Ferguson, Simmons BankDavid Roth, WorkMatters
DIVISION CHAIRS Community Development - Tina WinhamMembership Services - Keri EarwoodEconomic Development - Jeff MilfordGovernment Affairs - Jerry CarmichaelConvention & Visitors Bureau - David Lang
AUDIT COMMITTEE David HaleFrank BaileyJon Harrell
EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORSJeremy Barclay - Northwest Health SystemJerry Carmichael - TY North America - LLCMike Clawson - Del Monte Foods - Inc.Bob Clinard - Benton County JudgeDr. Janie Darr - Rogers Public SchoolsRich Davis - SourceGas Arkansas Inc.Mike Dodge - Carroll Electric Coop. Corp.Sandy Edwards - Crystal Bridges MuseumDan Hendrix - Arkansas World Trade CenterGreg Hines - Mayor - City of RogersChris Johnson - Cabela’sDr. Evelynn Jorgenson - NWACC PresidentPeter Lane - Walton Arts CenterDavid Lang - Embassy Suites NWAEldon Long - Mayor - City of LowellCharles Nevin - Advantage Sales & MarketingDawn Spragg - CUMCThom Stathakis - Everett Buick GMCChris Sultemeier - WalmartDick Trammel - Arkansas Highway CommissionMike Williams - NWA Emerging Leaders (WorkMatters)
RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 3
HOW WILL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTIMPACT YOU?
New job creation and business expan-sion impact businesses by creating meaningful opportunities for Cham-ber members to sell their goods and
services to new businesses and residents. The Economic Development Division will work with industries both large and small in our community to increase job growth and business expansion as well as with individuals to increase our growing small business community.
OBJECTIVE: CREATE ECONOMIC INVESTMENT AND JOBS BY USING A PROACTIVE MARKETING APPROACH TO ATTRACT NEW BUSINESSES, BOTH LARGE AND SMALL.
Staff will identify and create a priority list of target industries and retail stores for business recruitment with a result of 15 new businesses opening in the Rogers-Lowell area in 2016.
Staff will develop and distribute 150 reloca-tion packets to be used to attract relocating busi-nesses to the area. Marketing materials in packets will include: The Good Life relocation / visitors guide, DVDs, community profiles, maps, business directories and website information.
Staff will partner and assist the NWA Council by being the point of contact for industry recruit-ing in hopes of attracting new large industries to the Rogers-Lowell area in 2016, which will create at least 500 new jobs.
Staff will respond to 15 requests for infor-mation from the Arkansas Economic Devel-opment Commission (AEDC) as the point of contact for the community and region for new industry recruitment.
A database of available industrial, commer-cial office and retail property for sale and lease in the Rogers-Lowell Area will be reviewed and updated 12 times a year.
OBJECTIVE: PROACTIVELY PROMOTE EXPANSION AND RETENTION OF LOCAL BUSINESSES AND INDUSTRY.
Staff will conduct at least 200 Business Retention and Expansion Surveys (BREs) with both non-minority and minority-owned busi-nesses in cooperation with the NWA Council. The surveys will be conducted on a bi-annual basis and will help the Chamber and NWA Council learn about industry needs and potential expansions and relocations.
Staff will use and maintain current databases and software to track BRE survey results in an effort to proactively help meet the needs of large indus-tries in the area.
Staff will assist businesses seeking to expand workforce and infrastructure within Rogers-Lowell.
ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT | 2016 Business Plan
OBJECTIVE: SUPPORT OR LEAD THE PROCESS TO IDENTIFY REGIONAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES TO ADVANCE THE REGION’S COMPETITIVENESS FOR JOBS, WORKERS AND CAPITAL INVESTMENT.
Partner with the NWA Council to implement the regional marketing plan to recruit world-class businesses and workforce to Northwest Arkansas.
Work with the NWA Council to research and discover three (3) potential regional attractions and amenities that will enhance the quality of life in Northwest Arkansas.
Partner with area colleges and universities, along with the NWA Council, to provide 20 local industries with needed workforce training identi-fied through the Business Retention and Expan-sion Surveys (BREs).
Assist the regional education task force of the NWA Council to increase the college gradu-ate and degree completion rates in Rogers-Lowell by helping to create and implement programs designed to help increase the number of degree-holders in the area.
Promote regional health care as part of the NWA Council’s strategic plan by identifying the number of specialists, hospital beds, clinics and other services for all health care facilities in the region. This information will be published on the Chamber’s website and in The Good Life relocation / visitors guide.
Partner with the NWA Council, Innovate Arkan-sas and the Arkansas Small Business and Technol-ogy Development Center (ASBTDC) to establish a small business accelerator for local businesses using an existing vacant building in Rogers-Lowell.
Staff will attend trade shows / site selector events for the purpose of business recruitment by marketing Northwest Arkansas as a premier busi-ness destination.
OBJECTIVE: EXPAND SERVICES AND RETAIL AMENITIES TO HELP ATTRACT A DIVERSE, FIRST-CLASS WORKFORCE.
Identify target retail amenities for business recruitment with the goal of 12 new retail and / or restaurants opening in Rogers-Lowell in 2016.
Staff will develop and distribute 360 mar-keting and informational packets to be used for workforce recruitment. Marketing materials in packets will include: The Good Life relocation / visitors guide, DVDs, community profiles, maps, business directories and website information.
OBJECTIVE: ADDRESS EMPLOYER AND JOBSEEKER NEEDS THROUGH INNOVATIVE WEB TOOLS AND OTHER RECRUITMENT MARKETING.
Increase the number of visits to the online job bank found on RogersLowell.com by improv-
ing accessibility and ease of use. The job bank’s new user-friendly interface makes it easier for potential employees to apply for jobs and for employers to post open positions.
Market the online Job Bank to employers and jobseekers by writing and publishing four (4) articles about the job bank in Chamber publica-tions in 2016.
Create and maintain an online resume bank that allows job seekers to post resumes for review and employers to search the resume bank to fill positions. The Chamber’s goal is to receive at least 75 resumes each year to post on the website.
OBJECTIVE: RECRUIT AND RETAIN A HIGH-QUALITY WORKFORCE.
Partner with the Rogers Public Schools and local industries to host Kindergarten-to-Job (K2J) events throughout the year. Events will include facility tours and guided discussions between large industries and local educators.
Participate in at least one (1) college fair and one (1) internship event to market the Rogers-Lowell area as an ideal place to live and work.
Create 500 marketing pieces to be distrib-uted to recent and future college graduates in an effort to retain and recruit college graduates in Northwest Arkansas.
Plan, coordinate and host two (2) job fairs featuring 100 or more exhibitors and 1,000 job-seekers between the two events, which will help businesses find candidates locally in a cost-effective way. These events will also help local job-seekers learn about available job positions throughout Northwest Arkansas.
OBJECTIVE: ENGAGE IN SMALL BUSINESS OUTREACH.
Staff will utilize the online Small Business Toolkit by researching and compiling up-to-date materials on starting, running and growing a business in Rogers-Lowell. Materials will be avail-able in English and Spanish.
At least 300 individuals seeking resources on starting a small business will be assisted by Cham-ber staff and when necessary referred to the Small Business Resource Center at the Chamber where relevant, up-to-date publications and materials, in both English and Spanish, will be kept.
Staff will create and publish 150 Doing Busi-ness in Rogers-Lowell guides in both English and Spanish in 2016. The guide will be continuously updated with changing laws and regulations per-taining to businesses.
Chamber staff will refer 300 entrepreneurs needing specific and focused advice to strategic partners that can help them become successful business owners.
Increase the Chamber’s impact on the small business community in the Rogers-Lowell area by
4 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016
ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT | continued
creating a more diverse Small Business Council with at least 12 active members. Twelve Council meetings will be held.
Identify and meet the needs of the business community by hosting 24 educational seminars to help strengthen member businesses. These seminars will be based on what topics have been identified as being of importance to members.
Partner with Start-Up Junkies to host a Gone in 60 Seconds elevator pitch contest to show-case start-up businesses and connect them with potential investors.
Host four (4) Large Industry Council meetings so that staff can identify the needs and wants of our large industry members. During these educa-tional luncheons, topics relevant to current issues facing large industry members will be discussed.
Members of the Small Business Council will host six (6) Member Orientations. Attendees will learn how to best utilize their Chamber member-ship to grow their business.
Four (4) small business owners will be recog-nized for their hard work by being awarded “Out-standing Small Business of the Quarter”. These awards will help engage and encourage support of the small business community. Nominees will be eligible for the 2016 Small Business of the Year award given in 2017.
Plan, coordinate and host Chamber Univer-sity with a goal of 100 or more business men and women in total attendance. This program will provide attendees with networking opportuni-ties and educational seminars.
Partner with the SBA, SCORE and ASBTDC to provide educational seminars for 50 start-up and 50 young companies on the basic skills and resources needed to start a small business and successfully grow a business.
OBJECTIVE: IMPLEMENT DOWNTOWNMASTER PLAN
Chamber staff will work closely with building owners, developers, city staff, realtors, and busi-ness owners to further the designs and goals laid out in the Downtown Master Plan.
The Chamber will form an advisory board for Downtown Rogers, Inc. to focus on the best over-all strategies for implementing the Downtown Master Plan.
Staff will serve as the first point of contact and liaison between potential business owners, developers, and building owners and the City of Rogers when plans concern Downtown Rogers.
OBJECTIVE: ENGAGE IN MINORITY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT.
Coordinate networking events for diverse members of the business community to help them become more comfortable in growing their business through networking. At least 100 minor-
ity members of the business community will par-ticipate in these networking events throughout the year.
Continue helping minority entrepreneurs through the Minority Business Mentorship Pro-gram where 12 minority business owners will have the opportunity to learn important lessons as well as receive professional advice from their experienced mentors. This will strengthen the minority business community and help busi-nesses succeed by sharing knowledge, expertise and resources.
Encourage minority business participation in the new NWA BizCon, which will help improve communication and inclusion within the minority business community.
Staff will assist five (5) individuals interested in starting and completing the Minority Business Enterprise Certification (MBE) program. This pro-gram helps minority-owned businesses partner with larger businesses to gain access to resources previously not available to them.
Coordinate the efforts of the Minority Busi-ness Task Force reaching out to minority-owned businesses. Minority-owned businesses will benefit from having an open venue to voice their concerns. In turn, the task force will make every effort to address these needs.
Provide specialized assistance to 50 minor-ity business owners by promoting available Chamber resources or referring them to strate-gic partners for advice on how to start or grow their business.
Provide 120 minority business owners and entrepreneurs assistance with resources and information on starting and running a successful business in Northwest Arkansas.
At least 50 minority business owners, leaders and employees will gain useful skills and knowl-edge through professional development and edu-cational programs coordinated by the Chamber.
OBJECTIVE: ENGAGE IN MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH.
Continue facilitating meetings between the Rogers Police Department and the minor-ity community leadership. These meetings help both parties by bringing concerns to the table and working on a joint plan to bridge the gap of communication and cooperation within the community.
Continue engaging minority leadership, organizations and media to create solutions for important issues affecting our community. Coordinate the minority leadership efforts at the Rogers Public Schools by developing a plan for minority student engagement and degree attainment. Champion diversity and inclusion initiatives with the school district and help other public services enhance their existing programs.
November 1, 2016
BRADFORD MARINE & ATV
April 30, 2016
October 5, 2016
May 11, 2016
RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 5
source of information on political and govern-ment affairs issues.
OBJECTIVE: HELP CHAMBER MEMBERS UNDERSTAND AND NAVIGATE THE GOVERNMENTAL PROCESS.
Maximize the reach of the Chamber by utiliz-ing social media to post or tweet at least 25 times each month about government-related issues, programs or events of importance to our members.
Host eight (8) Government Affairs Commit-tee meetings with an average attendance of 25 per meeting. These meetings provide an oppor-tunity to discuss legislative issues in-depth and educate members on critical issues.
Host three (3) state legislative forums during the fiscal and special legislative sessions in 2016 with an average attendance of 50 people, which will allow the public to meet and ask questions of elected officials.
Encourage the minority community to par-ticipate in the political process by conducting one (1) voter registration effort and two (2) educational forums targeting the minority community.
Provide assistance to members by respond-ing to requests for information and assistance on government-related issues. Assisting members in resolving legislative issues helps to strengthen the business community and economic environment in Northwest Arkansas.
Provide staff support to the NWA Emerging Leaders Political and Government Affairs Work-group by assisting with one (1) voter registration effort and hosting a political candidate training breakfast series targeting young professionals. Providing an avenue for our emerging leaders to become involved in government affairs will help develop future candidates for public office and pre-pare the next generation of leaders for our region.
Distribute 50 email updates in 2016 that con-tain information and updates on local, state and federal issues.
Host Chamber Night receptions before the City of Rogers and City of Lowell “State of the City” addresses with 75 Chamber members and members of the public in attendance. This will provide an opportunity for members to introduce themselves to local officials, the realm of public service, and become more familiar with the issues facing each city.
OBJECTIVE: AGGRESSIVELY ADVOCATE FOR PRO-BUSINESS PUBLIC POLICY AND ISSUES.
Maintain 75 percent attendance during each legislative session to enhance the respectability of the Chamber and improve influence on legislation.
Draft and advocate for a regional legislative agenda, with at least 50 percent of agenda sub-mitted as introduced legislation through 2017.
Advocate at federal and state levels for legisla-tion of importance to Chamber members by pre-paring at least four (4) statements of support and initiating two (2) calls to action to membership on legislative and public policy through 2017.
Host four (4) meetings each year with staff of congressional representatives to strengthen ties with staff and improve influence and ability to relay policy positions to the region’s congres-sional representation.
Create, maintain and promote a new release of the website with recognizable branding that will highlight Government Affairs, inform about regional issues of interest to members and edu-cate about the political process.
OBJECTIVE: PURSUE TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING.
Provide support to the Regional Mobility Authority as needed and participate in all regional mobility meetings.
Attend two (2) highway commission meet-ings as well as host the AHTD director and staff at one (1) event as a way to advocate for new fund-ing from the highway department.
Organize one (1) trip to Washington D.C. for a minimum of 10 Chamber members. These trips help educate federal delegation and federal agencies on Northwest Arkansas needs as well as assist in driving additional infrastructure dollars to the region.
HOW WILL GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS IMPACT YOU?
The Government Affairs Division serves as the link between members and local, state and federal government by advocating for pro-business and quality-of-life issues
that are important to Northwest Arkansas. Addition-ally, Government Affairs engages in activities that produce long-term positive impacts including voter registration and education, engagement of members in the political process and continuously improved outreach efforts.
OBJECTIVE: ENHANCE THE ROGERS-LOWELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S CAPACITY TO EFFECTIVELY INFLUENCE LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL LEGISLATION.
Respond to Legislators’ requests for assistance by providing staff support to the 3rd District Cau-cus, which will improve trust and strengthen ties with state legislators.
Host three (3) legislative committee meetings in Northwest Arkansas, which allows the Chamber to highlight regional areas of need and build sup-port among legislators from around the state.
Continue to develop the Northwest Arkan-sas Political Action committee (NPAC) by raising $5,000 for the program. The political action com-mittee can support well-qualified candidates dur-ing elections.
Be a presence at the Capitol during the interim between legislative sessions by attending eight (8) interim committee meetings. This will help main-tain the Chamber’s visibility with legislators and provide additional networking opportunities.
Work with the Arkansas State Chamber, the Arkansas Economic Developers, and Chamber rep-resentatives from around the state in 2016 for the passage of SJR16. This will enhance the image of the Chamber statewide.
OBJECTIVE: ESTABLISH REGIONALISM TO LEVERAGE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR COORDINATED MARKETING, MESSAGING AND ADVOCACY EFFORTS.
Strengthen Chamber alliances with Fort Smith, Little Rock and Northwest Arkansas by attending two (2) meetings each year with other metro chambers of commerce and the state chamber of commerce. This will help staff better understand legislative needs in their area and uti-lize their political influence to encourage passage of pro-business legislation.
Work with other Northwest Arkansas cham-bers and the NWA Council to develop a regional legislative agenda. This regional plan will improve legislation and provide a benefit to the entire region.
Develop media partnership with a mul-timedia outlet to position Chamber as a regional, emerging statewide advocate and
GOVERNMENTAFFAIRS | 2016 Business Plan
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CHAMBER’SGOVERNMENT AFFAIRS DIVISION, VISITROGERSLOWELL.COM/ADVOCACY.HTML
6 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016
HOW WILL MEMBERSHIP SERVICES IMPACT YOU?
The Membership Services Division pro-vides over-the-top customer service for the membership of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce by provid-
ing valuable services and programming which delivers a return on their investment. Member-ship Services impacts the Chamber’s members by offering business building events and educational opportunities that support local businesses.
OBJECTIVE: SUPPORT THE CHAMBER’S MISSION OF “GROWING BUSINESS, BUILDING COMMUNITY” THROUGH MEMBERSHIP SALES AND EVENT SPONSORSHIPS.
Sell 350 new memberships in 2016 to support the Chamber’s goal of 2,200 members in 2016 by encouraging referrals from Chamber staff, mem-bers and volunteers. All staff will be responsible for recruiting new Chamber members.
Contribute to the profitability of the Cham-ber by generating $610,000 in gross revenue (event sponsorships, advertising sales and fees) to support events / programs in 2016 and deliver a positive ROI for sponsors.
OBJECTIVE: PROVIDE NETWORKING EVENTS AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS TO HELP MEMBERS GROW THEIR BUSINESSES.
Host at least 120 ribbon cuttings for new members in 2016, attended by members of the Ambassador committee. These events will create a welcoming atmosphere for new members and a strong referral networking group.
Celebrate and recognize the Chamber’s and its members’ achievements by hosting the Annual Banquet with more than 900 in attendance.
Promote member businesses while creat-ing a relaxed environment for networking by hosting 12 (one a month) Coffee Connection events. At least 40 businessmen and women will take part in each of these early-morning networking events.
Plan, coordinate and host four (4) Busi-ness-to-Business events with at least 50 in attendance at each event. This helps mem-bers generate new business leads in a fun, yet structured atmosphere. Host nine (9) Business After Hours networking events at member busi-nesses with more than 70 people at each event. Coordinate and host one (1) Benton County Business After Hours in partnership with other Benton County chambers of commerce with a goal of at least 100 members present. Coordi-nate and host two (2) Joint Business After Hours in partnership with the Bentonville / Bella Vista Chamber of Commerce with more than 100 members in attendance.
Engage at least 100 individuals by hosting one (1) Bowling for Business event. This unique
MEMBERSHIPSERVICES | 2016 Business Plan
event provides a relaxed, fun atmosphere per-fect for team building and networking.
Boost the local economy by hosting the annual Buddy Bass Tournament, which attracts more than 600 fishermen from across the region to participate. Proceeds from this fun, family-friendly event go toward economic develop-ment projects at the Chamber.
Show appreciation to community and Chamber volunteers and members by hosting the annual Chamber Picnic in Lowell with at least 200 community members present.
Host two (2) golf tournaments (spring and fall) with more than 150 participants in each. These tournaments allow participants to net-work, make contacts and get referrals in a fun, casual event away from the office.
Plan, coordinate and host two job fairs (spring and fall) featuring 100 or more exhibi-tors and over 1,000 job-seekers between the two events, helping businesses to find candidates locally in a cost-effective way and job-seekers to learn about jobs available in Northwest Arkansas.
Host the annual Teacher’s Appreciation Breakfast and Education Fair with 80 vendors and 1,000 educators. The event rewards teachers for their dedication and hard work while provid-ing a welcome to the new school year.
OBJECTIVE: INCREASE THE NUMBER OF MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS BY PROVIDING SUPPORT AND MEETING THE NEEDS OF OUR MEMBERS THROUGH GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE.
Send new members welcome emails within 24 hours of joining that provides Members Only section login information. Members can view referral reports, learn about upcoming events and programs, and connect with other members in the Members Only section.
New members will be invited to attend one (1) Member Orientation to learn how their involvement in the Chamber will benefit their business and community.
Members not actively involved in Chamber events and programs will be encouraged to par-ticipate and invited to serve on a committee that best suits them and their business.
Staff will contact members with invoices past due 45 days to encourage renewal. Staff will pro-vide information from member referral reports to communicate the value of membership.
Staff will provide personal customer service to 100 percent of new members so that their busi-ness needs, concerns and expectations are met.
Staff will visit members 60 days after joining to review referral report, verify reasons for join-ing, and guide members on how to maximize their membership.
All members will be contacted and profile information updated to ensure up-to-date busi-ness directory listings.
DATES REMAINING FOR 2016 |May 25
September 28November 30
DATES REMAINING FOR 2016 |March 16May 18July 20
September 21November 16
March 17April 21May 19June 16July 21
August 18September 15October 20
November 10December 15
March 8April 12May 10June 14July 12
August 9September 20
October 11November 8December 13
DATES REMAINING FOR 2016 |
MEMBERSHIP NETWORKING AND EDUCATIONAL EVENTS
DATES REMAINING FOR 2016 |
RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 7
HOW WILL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IMPACT YOU?
Programs in the Community Development Division impact and enhance the quality of life in Rogers, Lowell and the region by improving the lifestyles and amenities
enjoyed by residents as well as attracting new-comers and visitors, and developing leaders for the future.
OBJECTIVE: DEVELOP FUTURE COMMUNITY LEADERS | FURTHER LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL IN BENTON COUNTY
Coordinate the Leadership Benton County program with a goal of 40 participants complet-ing the program. This program increases the number of trained and knowledgeable leaders in Benton County.
OBJECTIVE: DEVELOP FUTURE COMMUNITY LEADERS | INTRODUCE PROGRESSIVE LEADERSHIP SKILLS IN THE ROGERS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Staff and volunteers will coordinate leader-ship development activities for high school stu-dents within the Rogers School District as a part of the First Leadership program. Twenty high school students will graduate from the program and become more active and knowledgeable about their community.
COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT | 2016 Business Plan
OBJECTIVE: DEVELOP FUTURE COMMUNITY LEADERS | CONVENE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS TO POSITIVELY IMPACT THE COMMUNITY THROUGH EMERGING LEADERS
In partnership with the Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL), engage new and young business professionals in the region by inviting them to and hosting six (6) professional development programs that focus on volunteerism, leadership skills development, and board service. These will be implemented with consideration of the committee’s mission statement: “NWAEL exists to engage and con-nect Northwest Arkansas young professionals through personal and professional development experiences.”
Increase NWAEL membership by 10 percent from 663 members in 2015 to more than 730 mem-bers in 2016. NWAEL will partner with other com-munity leadership development organizations to invite new members from across the region. NWAEL will also implement a new recruitment effort through networking events.
Workgroups will organize quarterly programs providing members opportunities to receive per-sonal or professional development experiences. These will offer a broad range of progressive, unique learning opportunities.
Establish NWAEL as a pillar for community enrichment by hosting a minimum of five (5) pub-lic service projects. These events benefit different community groups to ensure a broad reach across
Northwest Arkansas.NWAEL will incorporate new social media out-
lets that young professionals utilize, and increase its presence on existing social media. This includes developing a refreshed website. NWAEL intends to reach 500 “Followers” on Instagram (+500%), 1,300 “Followers” on Twitter (+10%) and 880 “Followers” on Facebook (+10%) in 2016.
OBJECTIVE: SUPPORT EDUCATION.Facilitate the Community-based Scholarship
Program, which will award 15 percent of Rogers Public Schools graduates with scholarships to fur-ther their education.
Host a Chamber Night reception prior to the Rogers Public Schools Annual Report with 75 Chamber members and members of the public in attendance. This event introduces members to elected officials and the idea of public service, as well as issues facing the school district.
Award 650 students at Rogers High School, Heritage High School and Rogers New Technology High School with Academic Awards for maintain-ing a 3.5 GPA for two (2) consecutive semesters.
Honor three (3) outstanding educators in the Rogers Public Schools District with the dis-tinct honor of “Educator of the Year” award at the Elementary, Middle and High School levels.
Host the annual Teacher’s Appreciation Break-fast and Education Fair with a goal of 80 vendors and 1,000 educators participating.
Providing the Region an Ongoing Source of Diverse Leaders
Through education, community awareness and hands-on experience the leadership programming of the Community Development Division aims to provide the region with an ongoing source of diverse leaders at all levels of business expertise that are prepared and committed to serve as catalysts and sustainers of positive change for the quality of life in the region. The Chamber’s successful Leadership programs, First Leadership, Leadership Benton County and Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL), hone the skills of future and key leaders and provide them with understanding
of and insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the area. Visit RogersLowell.com (Chamber Section) for more details.
S ophomores and juniors residing in Rogers are eligible to apply, and should meet the following requirements: a minimum 2.5 GPA; display of leader-ship 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 First Leadership sessions. Other desired quali-ties 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.
Class participants meet monthly from August to May. Sessions focus on local and county government, education, economy, human services, health care, quality of life, state government, regional issues, and leadership skills and theories. Participation in Leadership Benton County is open to persons 25 years of age or older, living and/or working in Benton County. The selection com-mittee seeks representation from a cross-section of the county, reflecting the diversity of the area. Participants should have a strong interest and commitment to serving the Northwest Arkansas region.
The Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders pro-gram is envisioned as a substantive program for dedi-cated professionals who seek to be actively engaged in the Northwest Arkansas community. The program is intended to develop candidates for public and private boards, commissions and leadership opportunities as well as to groom individuals to serve and lead our dynamic community. General membership requires a brief membership application (available at www.nwae-mergingleaders.com/), acceptance of bylaws, mission statement and core values and a profile on LinkedIn.
8 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016
MARKETINGCOMMUNICATIONS | 2016 Business Plan
HOW WILL MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS IMPACT YOU?
The Marketing Communications Division impacts the Rogers-Lowell Area, Cham-ber members and the business commu-nity by delivering easily accessible and
up-to-date information about local business and the community and by sharing information about the Chamber’s activities and business advocacy.
OBJECTIVE: CREATE AND IMPLEMENT A 2016 ADVERTISING MEDIA CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE THE CHAMBER’S MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS MESSAGING PLATFORM (KEY MESSAGES THAT TELL THE CHAMBER’S STORY OF “WHAT WE DO WELL”) AND TO MARKET THE CHAMBER’S PROGRAMS / EVENTS BY TARGETING THREE KEY SEGMENTS: “SMBS,” “LARGE INDUSTRY / CORPORATIONS” AND THE “NORTHWEST ARKANSAS COMMUNITY AT LARGE.”
Staff will negotiate a Media Plan and place ads monthly featuring the Chamber’s messag-ing and promoting programs / events. Staff will write and distribute monthly Press Releases as required. Staff will pitch media at least once per quarter. Coverage will be tracked and measured by number of News Media Stories, Published Fea-ture Articles and Broadcast Feature stories.
OBJECTIVE: UTILIZE TRADITIONAL AND NON-TRADITIONAL MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS CHANNELS TO HELP THE CHAMBER’S DIVISIONS ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS AND ACCOMPLISH THE CHAMBER’S MISSION.
Print and distribute 5,000 Annual Reports and produce monthly Staff Reports to highlight the Chamber’s accomplishments, deliver key messaging and demonstrate ROI for Chamber membership and investment.
Print and distribute 25,000 of The Good Life tourism / relocation / visitor guides and 10,000 Community Maps to provide convenient offline access to information potential residents and visitors need.
Produce a new series of online videos with CGI Communications that will highlight every-thing the community has to offer residents, busi-ness owners, visitors and people relocating to the
area. The video will be featured on the website and other channels to allow viewers a quick and fun way to learn about area attractions, economic development opportunities, quality of life ameni-ties and much more.
Maintain up-to-date content on Roger-sLowell.com on a daily basis. Evolve Small Busi-ness Toolkit by adding new content quarterly. Expand the GoCast online video platform usage to capture and deliver increased video content, e.g., event coverage, testimonials and announce-ments from the Chamber. Pilot and test a new Learning Management System in cooperation with the University of Arkansas Global Campus in Rogers and launch (if feasible) a new members only Learning Center Platform on the website for a potential 2017 rollout.
Increase unique visitors to the RogersLowell.com website by enhancing online presence via NEXT! Ad Agency’s online Reputation Manage-ment Services (optimizing Google Search with Google Plus and securing reviews). Establish new baseline and build unique visitors back to an aver-age of 10,000 per month for 2016.
OBJECTIVE: CONTENT MARKETING STRATEGY WILL BUILD ONLINE COMMUNITY, DIALOGUE AND ENGAGEMENT VIA SOCIAL MEDIA AND CHAMBER BLOG.
Will be measured by increasing Facebook “Followers” to 2,850 (+10%), LinkedIn “Follow-ers” to 1,100 (+2%) and Twitter “Followers” to 4,500 (+5%). Continue to evolve Social media as an effective and convenient forum and chan-nel for the Chamber’s online community to stay informed about and interact with the Chamber. Staff will post daily to social media properties. Staff will post content on the Blog at least once per month.
OBJECTIVE: MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE TIMELY AND FREQUENT CHAMBER NEWS AND INFORMATION BOTH ONLINE AND OFFLINE FOR EFFECTIVE AUDIENCE REACH.
Staff will write, design and produce two eNews weekly and one printed newsletter monthly. The weekly Monday Memo will reach an average of 2,800 members per week and the weekly Thursday Calendar at a Glance will reach an average of 2,750 per week both with an aver-age open rate between 23-27 percent. Staff will print and distribute an average of 3,750 Chamber Voice publications per month and post online to increase readership. Staff will post monthly Chamber News and Member News on the web-site and switch messaging at least monthly for Featured Items on the website home page.
OBJECTIVE: STAFF WILL PROVIDE CREATIVE SERVICES ON A DAILY BASIS FOR THE CHAMBER’S DIVISIONS.
Staff will manage and track creative design and production jobs weekly for the Chamber’s divisions and programs / events. Staff will update sales collateral as needed for Membership Ser-vices. Staff will produce creative for the new Capi-tal Campaign as needed.
OBJECTIVE: STAFF WILL MANAGE THE CHAMBER’S BRAND ASSETS VIA QUARTERLY AUDITS OF COLLATERAL, ADVERTISING, MESSAGING, PROCESSES AND LIBRARIES TO ENSURE CONSISTENCY AT ALL TOUCHPOINTS.
Staff will update the brand identity book as needed. Staff will update the digital logo kit for members (Proud Member, Outstanding Small Business of the Quarter and Ambassadors) by the end of the 1st quarter.
OBJECTIVE: STAFF WILL PLAN, CREATE AND IMPLEMENT RESEARCH AND SURVEYS FOR THE CHAMBER AS NEEDED.
Surveys act as a planning tool for the Cham-ber’s future direction and serves as a scorecard for members to weigh in on important issues and the Chamber’s programs and services. These will be conducted as needed.
RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 9
HOW WILL VISIT ROGERS IMPACT YOU?
Visit Rogers impacts the local economy and community by attracting conventions, sports and tour groups, and leisure visitors to Rog-ers, growing hotel, restaurant, and retail busi-
ness and adding to the quality of life of our residents.
OBJECTIVE: GENERATE OVERNIGHT VISITORS THAT WILL PRODUCE ROOM NIGHTS FOR ROGERS HOTELS AND BUSINESS FOR OUR ATTRACTIONS, RESTAURANTS AND RETAILERS.
Generate 60 leads, book 58 meetings, conven-tions, sports and group tour events in Rogers result-ing in 19,000 room nights, and provide services to 35,000 visitors to Rogers.
Increase hotel tax revenue by five (5) percent. Identify and engage 50 prospects per month
utilizing MINT, online resources and networking.
OBJECTIVE: MARKET ROGERS AS A PREMIER DESTINATION FOR LEISURE TRAVELERS, CONVENTIONS AND SPORTING EVENTS.
Spend $200,000 on a mix of digital ads, online campaigns and web banners in the best media out-lets possible to maximize exposure for Rogers.
Create six (6) new marketing pieces to be used in mailings and networking that promote Rogers as a premiere destination for meetings and sports.
Publish four (4) e-weekender newsletters, four
VISITROGERS | 2016 Business Plan
(4) meetings-focused newsletters, and three (3) sports planner-focused newsletters.
Increase total visitation to VisitRogersArkansas.com by 25 percent to 200,000.
Grow visitors guide requests from the website by 10 percent to 600.
Grow overall social media activity and engage-ment by 25 percent. Publish 20 blog posts covering Rogers activities and events.
Host or participate in three (3) familiarization (FAM) tours introducing Northwest Arkansas and Rogers as a viable destination to travel media, and meeting, sports and group tour planners.
Offer and provide printing / graphic services to 10 groups, encouraging meeting, sports and group planners to choose Rogers as their destination.
OBJECTIVE: ESTABLISH CREDIBILITY AND AWARENESS OF VISIT ROGERS AS THE OFFICIAL DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATION OF THE CITY.
Identify opportunities for participation and attendance in local groups and organizations such as Junior League, Leadership Benton County, Rogers Parks & Recreation Commission, Arkansas Associa-tion of Convention & Visitors Bureaus, Arkansas Hos-pitality Association, NATA, and Rogers City Council meetings, fostering support of Visit Rogers initiatives.
Research and enroll in budget appropri-ate opportunities for professional development
including Arkansas Governor’s Conference, IOM Winter Institute, Southeast Tourism Society Spring Educational Symposium, Destination Marketing Association International Annual Conference, U.S. Travel Association ESTO, and others.
Proactively contact business, leisure and civic editors with story ideas, interviews and photographs about Rogers’ events, campaigns and newsworthy developments. Generate monthly article, insertion or interview in regional media with positive news about tourism in Rogers.
Reignite the Rogers “Bring It Home” campaign, involving local stakeholders in the pursuit of meet-ings and conventions to be held in Rogers, resulting in four (4) leads for future events.
OBJECTIVE: PROVIDE EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE TO ENHANCE THE VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND ENCOURAGE REPEAT VISITS TO ROGERS.
Monitor and maintain adequate tourism brochure inventory in the Visitors Center monthly to ensure col-lateral is up-to-date and fully stocked.
Create and maintain a current and accurate Calen-dar of Events on VisitRogersArkansas.com.
Refresh current city map, trails map and conven-tion specific restaurant maps quarterly and as needed for specific groups.
Set up and maintain welcome tables at confer-ences and special events, providing promotional items and welcoming services to 35 groups visiting Rogers.
10 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016
Small Business Start-Up Summit |Thursday, March 29
ABOUT THE PRESENTERS |
SAVE THE DATE|Small Business Start-Up SummitThursday | March 29, 20169:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce317 W. Walnut | Rogers$95 for the Public ($65 for Chamber members)FREE for US Veterans and U of A Staff, Students & Faculty
The Walton College Arkansas Small Busi-
ness and Technology Development Center and event co-sponsor the Rogers-Lowell Area
Chamber of Commerce present “Small Business Start-Up Summit”.
“How to Start a Business in Arkansas” is the first seminar presented and prepares participants for the intensive business planning process. Find out the major steps crucial to starting a business, identify key issues that affect your business suc-cess, and discuss start-up requirements as well as common pitfalls you will face as an entrepreneur.
The second seminar “How to Write a Busi-ness Plan” discusses the business planning pro-cess in detail.
The third seminar “Business Financing Options” explores the many funding options for entrepreneurs such as SBA backed loans, micro loans, and traditional, in-house bank loans and the details for all these options.
Pre-registration is required at sbtdc.uark.edu. Center training program sponsors 2016
are Great Southern Bank and Arvest Bank. FREE 40 and 30 page workbooks included! Call (479) 575-5148 for more information. Complimen-tary breakfast items, snacks, drinks, and lunch are provided.
Bill Fox is the Center Director of the Walton College Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at the University of Arkan-sas in Fayetteville. He joined the Walton College ASBTDC as business consultant in 2007 and became Center Director in 2015. Bill oversees all operations of the center and works with small business clients on various types of business issues such as financing options and the loan process, preparation of financial projections, market research, business planning, marketing, and financial management. He also works closely with NWA community resource partners of the center such as area commercial lenders, cham-bers of commerce, and other university colleges
Martha Londagin is a Business Consultant with the Walton College Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center. She works with small business clients on various types of business issues such as financing options and the loan pro-cess, preparation of financial projections, market research, business planning, marketing, and financial management. She is the center’s business consul-tant for all client small business traditional and social media marketing plans. Martha also coordinates media relations and marketing efforts on behalf of the Walton College ASBTDC and oversees its small business training seminar program and community resource development partnerships with area cham-bers of commerce and other business development associations of the eight-county region of Northwest Arkansas. Martha joined the Walton College ASBTDC
and departments. Before joining the Walton College ASBTDC,
Bill was a former small business owner, having developed and operated a retail gift concept store and a catering company. He also has lend-ing experience as a banker/loan officer with Bank of America and has worked in higher education as director of a student enterprise program at the University of Pennsylvania, as coordinator for a disability services program at Broward (FL) Community College, and as a job developer for Florida Atlantic University.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University and an MBA from West Virginia University.
in 2012 as the Training Coordinator.Martha and her husband have owned a new
and used automotive dealership and a wholesale auto business for over ten years. She has a bach-elor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and was a high school English and Communications teacher prior to graduating from the School of Law at the University of Arkansas where she earned her Juris Doctor. She practiced law in Northwest Arkansas and Northeast Oklahoma for over twelve years with her practice primarily devoted to repre-senting banks, corporations, and small businesses in the legal areas of collections and general civil litigation. Most recently, she was a foreclosure and bankruptcy supervisor for a large NWA financial institution and is currently a licensed attorney in Arkansas and Oklahoma.
Bill FoxCenter Director
Martha LondaginBusiness Consultant
RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 11
2016 Spring Golf Tournament
25th Annual Bradford Marine & ATV Buddy Bass Tournament
Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair
Presenting Sponsor |
Presenting Sponsor |
Big Bass Sponsors |
Gold Sponsors |
Monday, May 16Tee Times | 8:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m.Shadow Valley Country Club7001 Shadow Valley Rd. | Rogers
REGISTER NOW | RogersLowell.com or Registration Form Insert (inside this Chamber Voice issue)
Saturday, April 30Prairie Creek Marina Pavilions |Beaver Lake Near Rogers
REGISTER NOW | RogersLowell.com or Registration Form
Wednesday, May 11Frisco Station Mall100 N. Dixieland Rd. | Rogers
REGISTRATION ONLINE OPENS SOON!
T reat yourself, reward employees and say thank you to clients at the Spring Golf Tournament, a four-person scramble with shotgun start times of 8:00 a.m. and 1:00
p.m. It’s going to be a fun day at Shadow Valley Country Club with contests and prizes, goodies, snacks, beverages and delicious food. You’ll enjoy networking on the course and the 19th Hole Party
T he annual Buddy Bass Tournament is a fundraising and community devel-opment event. Proceeds are directed toward economic development proj-
ects of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce. The tournament attracts hundreds
The Chamber will be hosting both a spring and fall job fair for Northwest Arkansas this year. These job fairs provide local business and indus-try opportunities to connect with local and
immediately following play. Hole sponsorships are still available. Register at RogersLowell.com or with the insert inside this newsletter.
regional job seekers, especially important as economic development continues to rebound and more jobs are created for the workforce. Call (479) 636-1240 if you are interested in sponsorship opportunities.
BRADFORD MARINE & ATV
Presenting Sponsors |
of local fishermen each year and features a fun weigh-in attended by a large crowd who come to watch the tournament’s prize giveaways, enjoy food and entertainment. Sponsorships are still available. Register at RogersLowell.com or inside any Bradford Marine & ATV location.
Three Big Events Coming Up on Chamber Calendar | Save The Dates
12 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016
Ace Quality ConstructionC.J. Stephens108 Hailey Dr., Centerton(479) 877-0143Construction - Commercial
Arbor Vitae ChiropracticDr. Tom NiemelaBentonville(573) 690-5958 | Find Us On FacebookChiropractors
Barnes Business DevelopmentDebi BarnesRogers(479) 899-7060Promotional Products
Best of Northwest ArkansasLynn West(479) 586-3018 | nwatravelguide.comTourist Information
Buffington Homes of ArkansasJuliana Salazar2826 E. Joyce Blvd., Fayetteville(479) 251-1106 | buffingtonhomesar.comReal Estate - Developers and Investors
Christopher Boothe Massage ServicesChristopher Boothe, LMT314 N. 13th St., Rogers(479) 366-9657 | chrisboothelmt.comMassage Therapy
Colonial Life - Susan WellerSusan WellerRogers(479) 544-6057Insurance
Core Brewing Company - XNA Brew PubJeff Genova1 Regional Airport Blvd., Bentonville(479) 111-1111 | corebeer.comBreweries
Grounds GuysJohn IvyCenterton(479) 685-3688 | groundsguys.bizLandscape Design/Installation
Guest InnSunil Panchal1601 S. 8th St., Rogers(479) 636-1733 | guestinnrogers.comHotels
The HouseSteven Sexton1704 W. Industrial Dr., Rogers(501) 655-1252 | welcometothehouse.com/Churches
Joe Gunnels ToursJoe GunnelsP.O. Box 24, Eureka Springs(479) 253-6852 | joegunnelstours.comTourist Information
Johnson Insurance AgencyKevin Johnson805 N. 20th Pl., Ste. 1, Rogers(479) 903-7088 | johnsoninsurancenow.comInsurance
Grace JudsonHoliday Island(760) 521-5720 | gracejudson.comConsulting - Business & Management
Kasey Kinney PhotographyKasey NicholsRogers(806) 470-2893 | kaseykinneyphotography.comPhotographers & Studios
New Province Brewing Co.Derek McEnroe1310 W. Hudson Rd., Rogers(479) 531-3233 | newprovincebrewing.com/Breweries
Ouroboros InternationalRose-Marie Speck3511 S.E. J St. #147, Bentonville(501) 291-1858 | ouroborosinternational.com/ Coaching - Business & Personal
Papa Bear Productions Karaoke & DJ ServiceAndrea VannoyRogers(479) 270-4782 | Find Us On FacebookDJ Services
Porter ConstructionNathan Bingham3821 McClure Dr., Rogers(479) 273-2866 and (479) 544-2455 | porter1.comContractors - Building, General, Home
Rogers Catfish HouseMarilyn Hawkins2102 S. 8th St., Rogers(479) 935-9211 | rogerscatfishhouse.comRestaurants - Seafood
Russet RoseCori Spears5212 W. Village Pkwy., Ste. 10, Rogers(479) 657-2768 | therussetrose.com/Boutiques & Specialty Shops
Signature Bank of Arkansas - BentonvilleShannon Crain700 S.E. Walton Blvd., Ste. 2, Bentonville(479) 254-2970 | sbofa.comBanks
Signature Bank of Arkansas - FayettevilleKyle Cupp3878 N. Crossover Rd., Ste. 20, Fayetteville(479) 684-3700 | sbofa.comBanks
Signature Bank of Arkansas - SpringdaleKayla Spradling1071 Har-Ber Lakes Dr., Springdale(479) 361-6677 | sbofa.comBanks
Sugar Lily Floral DesignsAmy Glass2882 W. Walnut St., Ste. 8, Rogers(479) 246-0000 | sugarlilyfloraldesigns.comFlorist
VFW Post 3031Charles Noeltner11160 N. Old Wire Rd., Rogers(479) 636-7042 | vfwpost3031.comOrganizations
Vibrant Motors, LLCRobert Sult125 N. Bloomington St., Lowell(479) 464-8882Automobile Dealers - Used
Welcome NEW MEMBERS | December 2015January 2016
RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 13
December 2015 | January 2016
MCLARTY DANIEL FORD CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM
2201 S.E. Moberly Lane, Bentonville
MERCY EMS - HICKORY CREEK15645 E. Highway 264, Lowell
CHRISTOPHER BOOTHE MASSAGE SERVICES314 N. 13th St., Rogers
ROGERS CATFISH HOUSE2102 S. 8th St., Rogers
Learn more about your Chamber of Com-merce 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 avail-able through your Chamber membership.
You’ll learn more about the Chamber’s web-site and how it helps to promote your business, and more about Chamber advertising media to incorporate into your marketing plan.
Member Orientation is offered every other month during the year. This orientation is beneficial
for new members, members that want a refresher on what the Chamber has to offer and new com-pany representatives.
It’s an excellent overview of Chamber net-working events and other programs all designed to help grow your business and make the most of your membership.
Member Orientation is conducted by members of the Small Business Council and is free and open to all members.
Please register as space is limited to the first 30 respondents.
Wednesday, March 16 | 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce317 W. Walnut St. | Rogers Free and Open to Members Registration Required
SAVE THE DATE |
Presenting Sponsor |
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Sponsor |
Platinum Sponsor |
14 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016
30+ yearsMoser Corporation - 69 yearsShofner’s Office Supply - 65 yearsFarmers Protective Mutual Insurance Company - 63 yearsKennametal Inc. - 63 yearsArvest Bank - 60 yearsMercy Health Northwest Arkansas - 60 yearsCarroll Electric Cooperative Corporation - 53 yearspb2 architecture + engineering - 53 yearsSourceGas Arkansas Inc. - 50 yearsVillage Insurance, Inc. - 50 yearsWestRock - 50 yearsMcGoodwin, Williams & Yates, Inc. - 48 yearsHinson & Company, Inc. - 47 yearsKurt’s Furniture - 43 yearsOzark Fence Co., Inc. - 43 yearsRealty Title - 40 yearsTyson Foods, Inc. - 40 yearsWar Eagle Mill, Inc. - 39 yearsExecutive Coffee Services - 38 yearsWinter Moving & Storage - 38 yearsHUNT VENTURES - 34 yearsOffice of Human Concern - 33 yearsOzark Arts & Crafts Fair/The War Eagle Fair - 31 yearsStribling Inc. - 31 years
21-30 yearsAll Weather Heating & Air ConditioningArTech PCCRJWFirst National Bank of NWAHampton Inn MoteliHeartMediaJordan’s Printing CompanyMcDonald Eye AssociatesMitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, P.L.L.C.Owens Janitorial ServicePrairie Creek AssociationProfessional Business SystemsRide-Rite Auto Sales, Inc.Rogers ApartmentsThrasher & Chambers Inc.Unruh Chiropractic & Wellness CenterVerizon Wireless
11-20 yearsAAA Business Systems, Inc.Abuelo’s - Mexican Food EmbassyBailey & Oliver Law FirmBest Sign GroupCarpet One Floor & HomeCFSI Financial Services, Inc.Elite Title Company, Inc.Galvan’s Digital SystemsH & R BlockHobbs State Park - Conservation AreaHudson Appraisals, Inc.Inland Waste Solutions, LLC
Jeremy D. Smith, DDS, PAKen Berley, D.D.S., LTDLarson’s Language CenterLindsey & Associates - Martha ProwellLindsey & Associates - Meza HarrisLiteracy Council of Benton County, Inc.Macadoodles Liquor - MissouriMarvin’s Savers ClubNorthwest Arkansas Food BankNorthwest Arkansas Home Builders AssociationOutback SteakhouseOzark Regional TransitPeaceKids Learning Center & PreschoolPig Trail Harley-DavidsonPostNet - Village on the CreeksResidence Inn by MarriottRick McLeod - Farmers Insurance GroupShelley M. Parson Insurance AgencySOHO ClothiersTransplaceUnited BankYear Round Lawncare/Lexa’s Pottery
6-10 years3W MagazineAdvanced Telecom GroupAlexander Open Systems - AOSBogle PropertiesBroadaway PrintingC.R. Crawford ConstructionChildren’s Advocacy Center of Benton CountyCircle of Life HospiceCEDCrystal Bridges Museum of American ArtRobert Adair, D.D.S. and Heather Adams, D.D.S.Fleming Electric, Inc.Friendship Community CareGood Steward Pet Sitting ServiceHelms Chiropractic, P.A.Helping Hands, Inc.HoganTaylor LLPThe House of PrayerHumane Society for Animals, Inc.Jamie’s NotebookJanacek ConstructionJKJ Architects, PLLCKFSM TV-5 / KXNW TV-34Kirby’s KupcakesLeisurescapes, Inc.McKee Foods CorporationMidland Construction, Inc.Milestone Construction Company, LLCNestle Walmart TeamOld Town Autobody & Sales, Inc.The Poultry FederationPrecision FitnessRBRogers Community School Recreation Association
Sharum’s Garden Center NWA, Inc.Stout Executive SearchTaco BellTekTrendz, LLCThomas FenceTire TracksTung Yung International (USA) Inc.Washington Regional Foundation
2-5 yearsA & B Distributors of Arkansas, Inc.Able Electric, Inc.Joe AielloAPEX of Northwest ArkansasB&B Heating& Air, Inc.Beaver Lake Vacation Rentals, LLCBelle Journee SpaCapstone Commercial Advisors, LLCChennai CaféComfort KeepersComstock Conflict Resolution ServicesCustom Design HairDilbert Consulting GroupDunk Fire & Security, Inc.Elkins DesignEngland Family DentalEverett Buick GMCFreddy’s Frozen Custard & SteakburgersGencoThe Great Passion PlayHarvey Pediatrics, PLLCState Representative Grant HodgesKeith, Miller, Butler, Schneider & Pawlik, PLLCThe Markham GroupMellow MushroomMojitos Modern Mexican GrillMountain Spring Water CompanyMountain Water Cabin, LLCNew Life Graphics Inc.Oakley Chapel United Methodist ChurchThe Party PlacePilgrims Rest RV ParkReal Medical ManagementRogers Bowling CenterRogers Learning CenterRogers Youth BaseballSimpleX PayrollTechnical Machinery SalesThe UPS Store
1 year The Artist EvolutionCore Brewing Company - Rogers Brew PubDeaf United OrganizationFarmers Insurance - Scott Satterlee InsuranceMorrow Heat & AirPreston and CompanyRick’s Bakery
MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | December 2015January 2016
RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 15
The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a variety of events to help build your network and learn. For more event details and to register, visit us online at RogersLowell.com.
Chamber Networking & Educational Events
Presenting Sponsors:Arvest BankGeorge Nunnally Chevrolet
Hosted by: Location:
March 8, 2016 Razorback Foundation, Inc. Professional Business Systems - PBS 2905 S. Walton Blvd., Ste. 5 | Bentonville
Location: Address:Presenting Sponsor:Crain Automotive Team
Gold Sponsors:Cox BusinessKFSM TV-5 / KXNW TV-34
Sunrise Seminar Series Presenting Sponsor:First Western
Sunrise Seminar Series Breakfast Sponsor:Whataburger
Speaker: Topic:
Speakers: Topic:
Presenting Sponsor:Sam’s Club
Northwest Arkansas Board of Realtors Event Center
Bill Fox, Center Director
Martha Londagin, Business ConsultantArkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center
Corry HullLegacy Capital Group
314 N. Goad Springs Rd., Lowell
Small Business Start-up Summit
Healthcare Reform Update for Small Employers
May 25, 20168:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
March 29, 20169:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
March 2, 2016
ROGERSLOWELL.COM Advertise online in the Chamber’s
website and reach thousands of unique visi-tors each month. Paid advertising options include leaderboard ads (at the top of highly visited web pages), featured banners on se-lect 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.
THE GOOD LIFEAdvertise in the annual tourism and
relocation print guide (also published on-line) featuring maps, restaurants and lodg-ing 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 conven-tion attendees. Call to reserve your space in the 2016-2017 issue now.
CHAMBER VOICEAdvertise 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 effec-tive 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.
ENEWSLETTERSOn Mondays (Monday Memo) and
Thursdays (Calendar at a Glance) the Chamber communicates weekly to over 5,000 members, business leaders and qualified buyers via professionally pro-duced emails. Provide us your banner ad (design not included) by the last Friday of the month to advertise in the upcom-ing month’s issues. Call for an Advertising Contract now.
Your Banner Ad Here
Advertising with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
Hosted by: Location:
Presenting Sponsor:Cherokee Casino & Hotel
The Promenade Apartmentsat Pinnacle Hills
The Promenade Apartmentsat Pinnacle Hills4101 W. Huntington Dr., Rogers
March 17, 2016
317 West Walnut StreetRogers, 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.