Chamber Voice | June 2025

CHAMBER VOICE June 2025

An Evening of Local Flavor: ANNUAL TASTE OF ROGERS A HUGE SUCCESS pg. 4 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS AN EVENING OF LOCAL FLAVOR

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The annual Taste of Rogers event brought people and food from all over the community together

NEXT STOP: WASHINGTON, D.C.

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Three local students headed to the State Civics Bee competition in Little Rock for a chance to go to Nationals

CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS

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LEAD student received a scholarship at the annual Rogers Public School District Scholarship Award Ceremony

ROGERS TOURISM BEAT

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Destination Rogers team from RLC teamed up with NWA Travel Meeting Professionals to present industry trends and updates

BUILDING THE FUTURE

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VP of Economic Development Jeremy Biggs took a tour of NWACC to learn more about workforce development on campus

CAPITOL CALLING

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VP of Government Affairs Sara Lynn Geiger attended her third Annual Arkansas State Chamber, Washington, D.C. Fly-In

PA S S I N G T H E T O R C H

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Senior VP of Downtown Development Karen Wagaman welcomes new leadership upon her retirement

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

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The Chamber recognized National Small Business Week (May 4 - 10) by shouting out local community members RIBBON CUTTINGS NEW MEMBERS MEMBER RENEWALS

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JUNE CALENDAR

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M IX E R DE NEGOC I O S 9:00-10:15am @ Dance With Me Studio

C H AM B E R P IC NIC* 11:30am-1:00pm @ Kathleen Johnson Memorial Park

N WA E L B OARD S E RVIC E CE RTIF ICATION 9:00am-4:00pm @ Rogers Lowell Chamber

*members only

EVERY

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CENT R AL R EF ER R AL CO NNECT I O N 9:00-10:15am @ Golden Corral

SPOTLIGHT SERIES:

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11:30am-1:00pm @ Sterling Bank

COFFEE

th CONNEC TION

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8:30-9:30am @ Natural State Pest Control

M ERCH A N T M EET UP 8:45-10:00am @ Beth DeVerre Glass

LOCA L G OVER NMENT U PDATE WITH MAYO R GREG H INES

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A RT ON th T H E BRIC KS 4:30-7:30pm @ Downtown Rogers

BUS I NESS th A FT ER HO U RS 5:00-6:30pm @ ISG

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T H U R S DAY - M AY 2 2 , 2 0 2 5

TASTE OF ROGERS presented by

THE ANNUAL TASTE OF ROGERS event was an evening full of local flavor and talent. People from all over the community gathered at Frisco Plaza in Downtown Rogers to enjoy the food of the area.

AS ROGERS CONTINUES to grow, so does its diversity. Taste of Rogers aims to offer the community a sample of our local culinary scene - all in one night!

Local chefs and restaurants who participated also had the chance to win the coveted titles of Culinary Champion, Backyard Champion, and the People’s Choice Award (listed to the right).

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“We are very involved with the Chamber. This is actually our second year at Taste of Rogers,” said Emily Butt, General Manager at Chuy’s. “We love connecting with our community and just showing our fresh food.”

“It’s nice just to try a little bite from every single station and get to know the restaurants a little bit better,” said one Taste of Rogers participant. “Some (restaurants) I’ve been to, and some I haven’t been to. And the ones I’ve been to, they’re actually serving a couple things that I haven’t tried before. So, it’s just nice to try everything.” •

Handel’s Homemad

Natural State R

de Ice Cream

Rabbit

CULINARY CHEF: DESSERT Winner: Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Second: Half Baked Goodness Third: Gelatissimo

CULINARY CHEF: SAVORY Winner: Downstream Casino Resort Second: Tusk & Trotter Third: Casa Alejo

Downstream Casino Resort

BACKYARD CHEF: Winner: Natural State Rabbit Second: Taylor Made Kreations sponsored by Northwestern Mutual

Third: Apprenticely

PEOPLE’S CHOICE: Winner (Tie): Taylor Made Kreations sponsored by Northwestern Mutual

Taylor Made Kreations

Downstream Casino Resort Honorable Mentions: Natural State Rabbit Tusk & Trotter Casa Alejo 5

Maddie S. presenting her essay during round 3 of the competition

Local and State winner M ny Mitchell - judge for Sta right), and Jacob Garret

CIVICS BEE U

NEXT S The three local finalists: Lynden M., Maddie S., and Asher S.

ON MAY 14, three local stu Civics Bee® State Competi of judges quizzed a total o knowledge.

The local students who par from the local Civics Bee in Junior High School, Lynde School, and Asher S. from O

AFTER WINNING FIRST PL Bee® Local Competition at S. continued her winning s and $1,000 at the National

Lisa Lake and Jacob Garrett with AT&T sponsored iPads for 6 each participant to take home from the competition

Maddie S. (middle left) accepting her prize check from Miss America’s Teen Peyton Bolling (left), Eboate Civics Bee and Director of External Affairs for the Arkansas Advanced Energy Assocation (middle tt - judge for State Civics Bee and Director of External Affairs for AT&T (right)

UPDATE

STOP: WASHINGTON, D.C.

udents competed in the National ition in Little Rock, where a panel of 12 students on their civics

rticipated were the top 3 finalists n April - Maddie S. from Lincoln en M. from Old High Middle Old High Middle School.

LACE at the National Civics t Rogers High School, Maddie streak, taking home first place l Civics Bee® State Competition!

She’ll now move onto compete at the National Civics Bee® Championship in November in Washington, D.C. “It’s such an incredible opportunity,” said Maddie S. “It’s so amazing, and just getting to meet kids with similar interests that are interested in civics and our community.”

The National Civics Bee® is an integral part of the Chamber’s mission work to activate the next generation of business and community leaders, through showcasing our community’s brightest young minds on a regional stage, and demonstrating our commitment to fostering engaged, informed citizens during a highly polarizing time in our nation. •

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W E D N E S DAY - M AY 1 4 , 2 0 2 5

CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS THE ROGERS PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT proudly hosted its annual Scholarship Award Ceremony in May, celebrating outstanding students across the district. Among this year’s honorees, was Rogers High School senior Idali Corona, who was awarded the 2025 LEAD Program Annual Scholarship, valued at $1,500.00.

Corona, a dedicated member of the LEAD Program (learn more below) for the past three years, stood out not only for her academic excellence but also for her unwavering commitment to leadership and service. Her involvement in the program has inspired many peers to participate, making her a key advocate for student development and community engagement.

“Being a part of the LEAD program was one of the most amazing experiences of my life,” said Corona. “I’m especially grateful for Geovanny. He was an incredible leader and role model who truly cared about us. His guidance made a big impact on me and motivated me to become a better version of myself.

LEAD gave me more than just experiences, it gave me skills I’ll carry with me in the future, and I am forever thankful.”

As she prepares to graduate, Corona leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, inspiration, and service, that will continue to influence students in the program for years to come. •

WHAT IS LEAD? L.E.A.D. stands for Leadership, Education, Activation, and Development. The LEAD Rogers Program supports under-served students in Rogers Public High Schools, aiming to enhance academic success and prepare them for higher education and career opportunities.

Through community support and partnerships with businesses and educational institutions, the program empowers students by offering guidance in various areas, including leadership development, financial literacy, and civic engagement.

Monthly sessions cover topics such as emotional intelligence and entrepreneurship, facilitated by experiential learning entities.

FOR MORE INFO: Contact Geovanny Sarmiento 8

Top: Idali Corona with Geovanny Sarmiento, the Senior VP of Community Development at RLC Bottom: Idali Corona receiving a scholarship during the awards ceremony

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T H U R S DAY M AY 8 , 2 0 2 5

ROGERS TOURISM BEAT DESTINATION ROGERS TEAMED UP with NWA Travel Meeting Professionals for the annual Tourism Talk at the Music Depot in Downtown Rogers, which provides industry trends and updates from tourism leaders, as well as networking opportunities for partners and friends.

Tourism Talk celebrates the Northwest Arkansas community’s shared vision of economic development, sustainable tourism and enhanced quality of life.

VAIL ROSS with 2Synergize Consulting moderated a panel discussion of sales and relationship building in the meetings and conventions market during a digital age.

J.R. Shaw, Executive Director of Destination Rogers giving a presentation during the talk

“It takes a village, when you’re hosting meetings and events, and making sure there’s alignment on the destination’s goals and the stakeholder goals is key,” said Ross. “These events allow those conversations to be had.” • Thank you to our sponsors!

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(From left to right): Bailie Sonnentag of The Avail Rogers, Amber Bryan Smith of Walmart Events and Vail Ross of 2Synergize Cons

Samantha Rojas, Sales & Service Manager with Destination Rogers

Dane Clark, Sales & Service Manager with Destination Rogers

SPIRIT OF HOSPITALITY AWARD

s

r Forga of J.B. Hunt, sulting

(Far right): Will Hancock with Hyatt Place pictured with Kruger Family following his receiving of the Mark Kruger Spirit of Hospitality Award Destination Rogers also presented the Mark Kruger Spirit of Hospitality Award to Will Hancock with Hyatt Place. Nominations highlighted Will’s ability to go above and beyond for each customer, while multi-tasking several responsibilities at once, “Will’s inspiring grace under pressure, and unwavering commitment to excellence. truly set Will apart. It’s just one of many reasons Will’s so deserving of this recognition.”

“I am very thankful to win this award,” said Will. “I would like to thank the committee and the council, as well as the Kruger Family and all my Hyatt Place co-workers and management.”

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BUILDING THE FUTURE

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE IN MAY, THE ROGERS LOWELL CHAMBER’S Vice President of Economic Development, Jeremy Biggs, pictured above, took a tour of Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) to learn more about workforce development happening on-campus.

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ALIGNED WITH RLC, NWACC’s workforce development initiatives are designed with one goal in mind: to equip students with practical, in-demand skills that meet the needs of local employers.

AS NORTHWEST ARKANSAS CONTINUES its rapid economic and population growth, the need for a skilled, adaptable workforce has never been more urgent. From high-tech manufacturing and construction to sustainable outdoor infrastructure, local industries are seeking workers who are not only trained but job ready.

These programs span several sectors critical to the region’s economy, including HVACR, plumbing, electrical, robotics, and a particularly unique offering — the Trails and Trades program. With outdoor recreation playing an increasingly important role in the identity and economy of NWA, this program trains students in the design, construction, and maintenance of multi-use trails.

NWACC is answering that call through its robust and evolving workforce development programs, serving as a vital pipeline for talent and innovation in the region.

COLLABORATIONS WITH COMMUNITY members like NWACC, allows RLC to begin its mission work involving workforce and economic development in the classroom. •

CAPITOL CALLING

65TH ANNUAL ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER, WASHINGTON, D.C. FLY-IN RLC’s VP OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, Sara Lynn Geiger (pictured above) attended her third Annual Arkansas State Chamber, Washington D.C. Fly-in, a prestigious three-day event from April 29 - May 1, alongside other Chambers, economic developers and businesses across the state of Arkansas.

“I think it is important for our local chamber to be present and active with our federal delegation as a growing region,” Geiger said. “As we prepare for the future and grow to a region of 1 million by 2050, these connections are crucial to ensure we have the tools necessary to succeed.”

Through the event, Geiger attended several meetings, conversations and receptions with various legislative groups, including: a policy briefing with U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a conversation on tariffs with the National Retail Federation, a reception with Arkansas Delegation and a leadership breakfast at the Capitol Hill Club.

The Chamber’s Advocacy and Government Affairs department is dedicated to making sure business owners and community members stay connected to what’s happening in local, regional, state, and federal government. •

Congressman Bruce Westerman giving a private tour of the US Capitol

Group photo of the AR State Fly-In Night Tour

Congressman Steve Womack, Miss America’s Teen and Rogers Native Peyton Bolling, and RLC VP of Government Affairs Sara Lynn Geiger

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Left: Karen Wagaman Right: Sam Danneberg

PASSING THE TORCH

RLC WELCOMES NEW LEADERSHIP FOR DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AFTER NEARLY A DECADE of dedicated service, Karen Wagaman is concluding her impactful tenure as Senior VP of Downtown Development at the Rogers Lowell Chamber. Karen has been instrumental in the growth and revitalization of Downtown Rogers, helping to transform it into a vibrant regional destination.

“WHEN I MOVED TO NORTHWEST ARKANSAS in May 2016, I only knew one person — now, I know hundreds of amazing and inspiring people! Accepting a role with the Rogers Lowell Chamber led to an incredible journey, and I am deeply grateful for the experiences and connections I’ve made along the way,” said Karen. “I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside business owners, developers, residents, and city leaders to help shape the growth of Downtown Rogers. Watching underutilized spaces transform, interactive experiences flourish — from art and food classes to live music —and our community thrive has been truly rewarding.”

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AS SHE PASSES THE TORCH, the Chamber is excited to welcome Sam Danneberg as the new Director of Downtown Development.

Sam comes from the Olathe Chamber of Commerce, where he led workforce development and business district initiatives. A University of Arkansas alum, Sam brings strong local ties, a collaborative mindset, and experience in downtown economic development.

When describing his enthusiasm in taking on this new role in Downtown Rogers, Sam said, “I could not think of a better spot to be in for a career.”

STARTING IN JUNE, Sam will focus on implementing the Downtown Rogers Master Plan — working with local stakeholders to drive investment, support DTR business growth, and enhance the area’s appeal. •

M AY 4 - 1 0 , 2 0 2 5

SMALL BUT MIGHTY

CELEBRATING NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS WEEK FOR MORE THAN SIXTY YEARS, the U.S. Small

Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have celebrated National Small Business Week, which acknowledges the contributions entrepreneurs and business owners make to local communities.

In 2024, a combined 33 million small businesses across the nation accounted for 46% of private sector employment.

REGARDLESS OF THEIR SIZE OR AMBITION, small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to the local tax base.

Many small business owners are active in the community and support a variety of charities and local initiatives. Supporting and nurturing these enterprises is crucial for the stability and growth of our economy. •

RLC SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL

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M AY R I B B O N C U T T I N G S

APRIL NEW MEMBERS

APRIL MEMBER RENEWALS

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