Chamber Voice Newsletter | January 2022

January 2022 | Vol 17 Issue 1

We’re Celebrating 100 Years of Business & Community Leadership

Did you know that 2022 is our Centennial Celebration? Throughout the year, the Chamber celebrates our past, present and what’s next for our exciting future. Since 1922, we’ve been working hard for our businesses and community – we have a passion for that. It’s a proud history of leadership and action and being your seat at the regional table. We appreciate your membership and support and invite you to celebrate our successes with us this year! Learn more in this month’s cover story.

See Story on Page 4

W HAT ’ S IN TH IS I SSUE ?

3 ������������Chamber Staff & Board of Directors 4 �����������We’re Celebrating 100 Years of Business & Community Leadership 6 ����������� 2022 Centennial Celebration | We Appreciate Our Members!

8 ����������� Introducing the 2022 Small Business Council 8 ����������� 2021 Small Business of the Quarter Award Winners 9 �����������Chamber Selects Michelle Wynn Ambassador of the Quarter 10 �������Chamber Partners with Rogers Public Schools CTE to Develop Career Education Addressing Workforce Demands

12 ��������We’re Helping Entrepreneurs Do Business 14 ��������The Road Ahead | 2021 Legislative Session 16 ��������December Art on the Bricks Art Walk Promoted The Art of Shopping Local #ShopNWA 18 ��������Focus on the Community Articles • Rogers Historical Museum Announces New Exhibit - “Thrift Style” • Arkansas Public Theatre Hosting Second Rogers Short Film Festival • Walmart AMP Announces Variety of 2022 Shows • Pig Trail Harley-Davidson Donation Helps Nine Local Nonprofits in Hard-hit Fundraising Year

24 ������NWA Emerging Leaders Offers Mix of Business & Fun in 2022 25 ������Chamber’s Member Engagement Committee Celebrates 6th Year 26 ������New Members & Ribbon Cuttings | November 2021 Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 P: (479) 636-1240 F: (479) 636-5485 2

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

28 ������Membership Renewals | November 2021 29 ������Chamber Business Connect & Educational Events

CHAM BE R S TAFF Raymond Burns, CCE President/CEO rburns@rogerslowell.com

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

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

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

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

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

Nick Smith Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com

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

Katie Burns Vice President of Operations katie@rogerslowell.com

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

Loretta Gomez Finance Manager loretta@rogerslowell.com

Justin Freeman Marketing Communications Specialist justin@rogerslowell.com

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

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

Jacque Eakins Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com

Ashley Matsumura Customer Relations Manager ashley@rogerslowell.com

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

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

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

Executive Committee

B OARD OF D IREC TORS 2022 Directors

Chairman of the Board | Erin Kiefer, Assembled Products Chairman-Elect | Mike Power, First Security Bank Treasurer | Tom Allen, Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners Past Chairman | Angie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker’s Furniture & Appliances President/CEO | Raymond Burns RIDC President | Jerry Vest, Regions Bank

Ron Branscum, Strategic Business Consulting David Kimball, Benchmark Group Jerra Nalley, University of Arkansas Walton College of Business John-Michael Scurio, George’s Inc. Tanya Smith, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Melissa Turpin, Honeycomb Kitchen

Daizy Andrade, University of Arkansas Bruce Barkley, KHBS/KHOG Dr. Marlin Berry, Rogers Public Schools Andrew Branch, NWA National Airport-XNA Larry Cooper, Embassy Suites NW Arkansas Brad Crain, Arvest Benton County Ever Cuellar, First Security Bank Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp.

2023 Directors

Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Sotheby’s International Realty Dean Fisher, Glad Manufacturing Angela Grayson, Precipice IP Patrick Kerrwood, Northwest Health Mat Mozzoni, Cox Business Knight Weis, Signature Bank of Arkansas

Ex-Officio Directors

David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade Cathy Foraker, AT&T David Foster, APAC - Central, Inc. Bradley Hardin, AEP/SWEPCO Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers Tron Hodges, Black Hills Energy Tom Hopper, TallChamps, LLC Corry Hull, BHC Insurance Emily Ironside, Crystal Bridges Museum

Division Chairs Community Development – Josh Vasquez Membership Services – Tanya Smith Economic Development – Brad Crain

2024 Directors

Michael Parker, Nabholz Charlotte Rankin, Mercy NWA Gaven Smith, J.B. Hunt Transport Stennett Thompkins, AAA Insurance Brandy Tuft, Ernst & Young Josh Vasquez, Encore Bank

Dr. Evelyn E. Jorgenson, Northwest Arkansas Community College Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center Chris Moore, Mayor, City of Lowell Barry Moehring, Benton County Judge Rafael Rios, Yeyo’s Mezcaleria & Taqueria at the 1907 Denise Thomas, Arkansas World Trade Center Dick Trammel, Chairman Emeritus Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods

Audit Committee Government Affairs – Angela Grayson Destination Marketing – Larry Cooper

Ron Branscum Knight Weis Brandy Tuft

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

3

...Continued from Page 1

VISION FORWARD |

THE NEXT 100 F

or 100 years we’ve been bringing people together to grow business, activate leaders and build community. This is our

What’s Next?

We believe the best is yet to come for the Rogers-Lowell Area

Mission as well as our passion and inspires everything we do

community and Northwest Arkansas region. As the Keeper of the Community

to ensure the Rogers-Lowell Area is a great place to visit, live,

Vision and the Voice of Business, your Chamber is leading the way to sustain

invest, work, and play.

prosperity for the next 100 years. Collaborating regionally, we’ll focus our

Centennial Celebration | Save The Date: March 29 Telling our story starts with the people and organizations that have made the Chamber what it is today. Our legacy of success wouldn’t be possible without our business and community leaders – they have a

mission-work on five key areas:

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVOCACY & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

willing spirit, a healthy focus, and a progressive attitude.

Our leaders possess the core values of faith, family, community, education, and economic prosperity – the community’s shared values identified in the Vision 100 Community Action Plan. In fact, Vision 100 came together because of these leaders and is now the roadmap that guides our mission-work to enhance our quality of life and ensure readiness for

SMALL BUSINESS& ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT

the future.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Save the date and purchase your tickets now to our Centennial Celebration of Business & Community coming March 29. We’ll be telling our story through the lens of our unique history and featuring the diverse people and organizations that have made an impact on the Chamber’s successes. More details on the Celebration will be announced in the coming weeks.

4

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

DESTINATION MARKETING& MANAGEMENT

Commemorative Branding for a Special Year As a special tribute to our Anniversary, the Chamber created a refreshed brand image for 2022. It’s a fun and modern twist on our logo honoring the 100-year milestone. You’ll see this refreshed imagery in our Membership Certificates and Window Decal Sticker (mailing to members

NWA Spring Job Fair | May 4 The Spring Job Fair gives area business and

this month), our Proud Member Logo (download

industry an opportunity to connect with local

now at the Member Portal), and identity graphics

and regional job seekers.

for the Chamber’s events and programs.

RLACC Sporting Clays Classic | October 14 The 6th annual Sporting Clays Classic offers Chamber members an opportunity to network with other business professionals and conduct business. Sponsors may invite a special customer

2022 Signature Events

to join them as a gesture of thanks or reward

The Chamber’s Centennial year features a

employees with a fun day of team building on the

variety of community and business events. Learn

range, enjoying one the great outdoor venues in

more and register at the Chamber Calendar of

Northwest Arkansas.

Events. Explore sponsorship opportunities with our Member Services Team.

Tee Off at Topgolf Tournament | May 12 The 2nd Annual Topgolf Tournament presented by Choctaw Casino is an opportunity for Chamber members and their guests to experience one of Rogers’ newest entertainment venues: Topgolf. Don’t worry about inclement weather as the venue offers climate-controlled

Centennial Celebration of Business & Community | March 29 The 100th Annual Celebration of Business

hitting bays for year-round comfort. Conduct business by inviting special customers to play

A Diverse Taste of Rogers | Date To Be Announced This newest Chamber event will feature small

with you as a gesture of thanks or reward

bites and desserts prepared by local chefs from

employees with a fun day of teambuilding.

diverse cultures and backgrounds. There is nothing

& Community (formerly known as the Annual

that unites Americans more than sharing tasty

Banquet) is the highlight of the Rogers-Lowell

food while discussing our love of our cities, our

Area Chamber of Commerce year, recognizing

families, and our communities. The dinner table

the organization’s current and incoming

has always been a place where we have connected

leadership. The evening also includes an

through shared struggles and successes. As

Annual Awards Celebration and Gavel Passing Ceremony, guest speakers and celebrates community and business excellence.

Chamber Golf Tournament | September 16 The Chamber Golf Tournament is an opportunity for Chamber members to conduct

we work to make Northwest Arkansas a more welcoming place for everyone who lives here, this event aims to host an informed and honest community conversation on diversity and equity.

business on the course. Invite a special customer to play with you as a gesture of thanks or reward employees with a relaxing round at The Creeks Golf & RV Resort.

Rogers Cycling Festival | April 23

Spotlight Series | Quarterly Dates To Be Announced

The Rogers Cycling Festival brings hundreds of cycling enthusiasts from across Northwest Arkansas to Downtown Rogers and

This series of seminars brings the right people

has something for everyone. A portion of the proceeds from the event benefit nonprofit cycling causes in the region. Every part of the ride this year takes place on The Railyard Loop Ride - a

together at the right time to spark innovation,

NWA Fall Job Fair | October 5 The Fall Job Fair gives area business and

inspire ideas and align our community around common goals. We’ll convene each quarter to spotlight progress and illuminate issues that are

15+ mile ride that loops the entire city of Rogers.

industry an opportunity to connect with local

opportunities for growing business, activating

After the ride, hang out in the Rider Village, there

and regional job seekers to address hiring needs

high-impact leaders, and building a strong and

will be food trucks, games, and music.

for the remainder of the year.

diverse place to visit, live, invest, work and play.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

5

2 0 2 2 C E N T E N N I A L C E L E B R AT I O N |

WE APPRECIATE OUR MEMBERS! As the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates 100 years, we would like to thank our members who have been members of our Chamber for more than 30 years, and some of them from the very beginning.

10Box Cost-Plus ACE Glass AEP Southwestern Electric Power/SWEPCO Aero Med Express, Inc Al McCarty Jewelers APAC - Central, Inc. Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield Arkansas Department Workforce Services Rogers Arvest Bank Assembled Products Corporation AT&T Beaver Lake Aviation Beaver Water District Bedford Camera & Video Bekaert Corporation Benchmark Group Black Hills Energy Bob Maloney Collision Bradford Yard Living + Landscaping Bryant & Company Appraisers Carroll Electric Cooperative Corporation CEI Engineering Associates, Inc. Central United Methodist Church CJRW Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette Cox Communications Crafton Tull Culligan of N.W. Arkansas Daisy Outdoors/Gamo Airguns/BSA Optics Dean Crowder Construction, Inc. Debbie’s Family Pharmacy Dennis Electric, Inc. Design Travel Dolle Electric Downtown Rogers, Inc. Dr. Shawn Lee, D.D.S., P.A. Dyer Electric, Inc. Executive Coffee Service 6

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

Farmers Protective Mutual Insurance Company Fayetteville Mechanical Contractors, Inc. First Western - Downtown Rogers Branch FM Corporation Frisco Station Mall Garner Building Supply Glad Manufacturing Company Guinn & Associates, CPA, PA Harris Baking Haven Managed Services Hight Jackson Associates, P.A. Hinson & Company, Inc. Hope Cancer Resources House of Webster HUNT VENTURES iHeartMedia Innisfree Senior Living Community Jiffy Kwick Jim & Pat Givens Justin Madick Insurance Agency LLC Kennametal Inc. KHBS/KHOG-TV 40/29 KURM Radio Landmark PLC, Certified Public Accountants Lindsey & Associates - Main Office Lost Bridge Marina Malco Towne Center 12 Screens Marvin’s Building Maintenance Co., Inc. Matthews, Campbell, Rhoads, McClure & Thompson, P.A. McDonald Eye Associates McGriff Insurance Services - Fayetteville Meeks Building Center Mercy Northwest Arkansas Mercy Rogers Medical Center Mercy’s Women Health Moser Corporation Mr. George Zephyr Multi-Craft Contractors, Inc.

Nabholz Construction Nationwide Insurance - The Noble Insurance Agency New Hope Animal Hospital Northwest Arkansas Community College Northwest Arkansas Council Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Northwest Technical Institute - NTI Northwest Tire Service, Inc. NWACC Foundation Office of Human Concern Olsson Open Avenues Owens Janitorial Service Ozark Fence Co., Inc. Ozark International Consultants, Inc. Ozark Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Parenti-Morris Eyecare pb2 architecture + engineering Pea Ridge National Military Park Pel-Freez, LLC Pinnacle Country Club Prairie Creek Development/Darrow Garner, Inc. Prairie Creek Marina Prairie Creek Veterinarian Hospital Preformed Line Products Company Professional Business Systems Realty Title Regions Bank Rick Buck/Jan Buck Ride-Rite Auto Sales, Inc. Rite Temp Manufacturing, Inc. Rogers Apartments Rogers City Hall / Administration Rogers Fire Department Rogers First Church of the Nazarene Rogers Health and Rehabilitation Center Rogers Inn

Rogers Insurance Agency, Inc. Rogers Iron & Metal Corporation Rogers Land Company Real Estate Rogers Public Schools Rogers Water Utilities Scenic Highway 12 Association Serfco Termite & Pest Control Sherwin-Williams Company Shirley’s Flowers & Gifts, Inc. Showcase Trophy & Awards, LLC Simmons Bank Sonic Drive-In #1247 St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church St. Vincent de Paul School State Farm Insurance - Roger Clark Stribling Inc. Sweetser Construction Technical Machining Services, Inc. The RoArk Group The Stitt Group Thrasher & Chambers Inc. TitleTech Tucker’s Furniture & Appliances Tyson Foods, Inc. Vantine, Barrett & VanWinkle CPA’s, PLLC Verser Cabinets of NWA Inc. Village Insurance, Inc. Visiting Angels of NWA Walmart Supercenter Store #0001 Walton Arts Center War Eagle Cavern on Beaver Lake War Eagle Fair War Eagle Mill, Inc. Watkins, Boyer, Gray & Curry, PLLC Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC Winter Moving & Storage Wittenberg, Delony & Davidson WSP Inc. Packaging & Distribution Specialists

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

7

T

Introducing the 2022 Small Business Council 2022 Small Business Council

he Small Business Council is a very important committee of the RogersLowell Area Chamber of Commerce.

Chair | Ron Amos, Minuteman Press Co-Chair | Sam Gardner, Walker Brothers Past Chair | Jeremy Janes, Janes Insurance & Brokerage

It was created to be the Voice of

Kaala House, House Inc @ Thrive Real Estate to provide guidance to the Chamber on small Melissa Dysart, Level 5 Architecture business needs. These volunteers work hard to Amanda Johnson, Bumbles & Boots Custom Creations make a difference in the business community.

Ever Cuellar, First Security Bank The Council is made up of Chamber member Julie McAllaster, Business and Industry Training volunteers who own, work for, or actively serve Gilbert Rodriguez, Arvest Bank small businesses throughout Northwest Arkansas. Stephanie Hogan, Edward Jones Some of the roles of the Council include selecting Elizabeth McCurdy, StudioChunky: Digital Film, an Outstanding Small Business of the Quarter, Animation, Photography the Small Business Community and

Jeremiah Ascherman, Compass Business Solutions Martha Londagin, Startup Junkie Foundation* Ken Greene, SCORE* Denise Thomas, World Trade Center Arkansas* Lori Lieblong, Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center* Shelle Summers, Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce** Steve Cox, Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce**

*Denotes Ex-Officio Members **Denotes Chamber Staff Support

selecting educational seminar topics, and conducting the bi-monthly Chamber Tutorial (formerly known as Member Orientation).

T

2021 Small Business of the Quarter Award Winners How It Works

he Chamber’s Small Business Council recognized these

Members of the Small Business Council interview nominees during the first month of

small businesses below for the

each quarter. They vote on a winner during the second month of each quarter. The award is

Outstanding Small Business of the

presented in the last month of the quarter. The four winners are automatically nominated for the

Quarter awards during 2021. Please

2021 Small Business of the Year to be awarded at the 2022 Annual Celebration of Business &

join us in congratulating them.

1 s t Q ua r te r W inne r

8

presented by |

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

Community happening on March 29, 2022.

2n d Q u a r ter W inner

3rd Q uar ter W i nner

4t h Q ua r ter W inner

Chamber Selects Michelle Wynn Ambassador of the Quarter

T

he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of

Childcare Association, Southern Early Childhood

Commerce has honored Michelle

Association, Arkansas Fundraising Professionals,

Wynn with the Ambassador of the

and Springdale Chamber of Commerce

Quarter Award for the fourth quarter

Leadership Class XX11. She also serves on the

of 2021.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce’s

Michelle has worked for Child Care Aware

Member Engagement Committee.

for over 18 years, providing training for early care

Michelle enjoys working with the

educators and parent education classes, while also

community, promoting local businesses, and

serving in marketing and community outreach

building relationships.

roles. Another part of her position is overseeing

“We live in a wonderful area, being a part of

operations in the office with staff members.

the community is important to me,” she said.

She attended the University of Central

Michelle and her husband, Matt, have twin

Arkansas, graduating with a Bachelor of

nine-year-old sons.

Science degree.

Michelle is very involved in the community in addition to being an ambassador, participating in organizations such as Rotary, Arkansas Early

Purchase Your Advertising in The Good Life Destination Guide

Space Now Available for the 2022-2023 Digital Publication Don’t miss this members-only opportunity to advertise in the annual tourism and relocation destination guide.

The award-winning magazine features maps, restaurants, lodging lists, regional activities and attractions, and resources for visiting, living, working and playing in the Rogers-Lowell Area.

This year’s edition will again be published digitally, offering advertisers our Digital Advertising Value Packages loaded with enhanced online value to complement display ads.

Choose from five value packages: Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze and Basic. ocating to iting or rel you are vis plore this guide to Whether ll Area. nsas, ex ka Ar gers-Lowe st Northwe e in the Ro e Good Lif discover Th

Learn More and Download An Advertising Contract Today!

All Advertising Contracts and materials are due January 31, 2022.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

9

Chamber Partners with Rogers Public Schools CTE to Develop Career Education Addressing Workforce Demands

A

ligning career education programs with current and

months. A significant number of students have enrolled in the medical and

projected workforce demands remains the focus the

health service extended learning programs including Medical Assistant,

Rogers Public Schools (RPS) Career and Technical

Certified Nursing Assistant, Emergency Medical Responder, Emergency

Education (CTE) department. The district’s partnership

Medical Technician, Phlebotomy and EKG Technician. Many of these

with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

programs are offered through a partnership with Petra Allied Health and

and the Northwest Arkansas Council is an essential part of developing

Northwest Arkansas Community College.

career education programs that address employment trends and workforce demands within the Rogers community and the Northwest Arkansas region.

Demand for Skilled Workers Increasing for Medical and Health Services With a growing number of medical facilities located within Northwest Arkansas and the emergence of the COVID pandemic, the demand for skilled workers in medical and health services has increased significantly in recent years. Employment data provided by Dr. Joe Rollins at the Northwest Arkansas Council notes a number of current job openings in medical and health services areas, including medical assistants, emergency medical services, nursing and residential care and related areas. The demand for skilled workers in these areas is projected to increase in future years.

RPS offers the Medical Professions and Sports Medicine programs of study to high school students during the regular school day. Students may also register for many other types of industry certification and job training through the district’s Launch Extended Learning Programs. These programs are often scheduled after school, on Saturday and/or during the summer

10

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

“This partnership with RPS and the NWA Council is a perfect example of the Chamber’s mission-work in action. Our Economic Development division develops talent pipelines for current and future workforce needs by connecting educators with industries. It’s critical mission-work for our business community.”

– Steve Cox

Senior Vice President of Economic Development Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

What Students are Saying Several students have shared a summary that highlights the benefits

class and I have never been this excited for an amazing opportunity. I am really hoping for an internship but because I’m still sixteen, I will most likely have to wait until my senior year. My biggest career goal is to get as many

they have received through participation in the career education and

classes as I can in the healthcare field during high school so that when I go

extended learning programs and how the programs have helped prepare

to college, I can continue into getting my ASN or BSN with experience.”

them for jobs within the medical, dental and health service career fields.

Katie Menjivar “I’m currently a Senior at Rogers New Technology High School. The

Cyndy Vargas-Sanchez As a Senior at Rogers New Technology High School, I’m participating in a Dental Assisting program online through the

Rogers School District has provided an abundance of opportunities for all of

University of Arkansas, which I should be able to complete before I

us who want to create a pathway into future careers. Throughout the past

graduate high school. Starting in January of 2022, I will be interning at

four years, I have completed two courses with Petra Allied Health: Certified

my dental office to give me practical experience in the dental office. I’m

Nurse Assistant (CNA); and Phlebotomy (CPT). I’m currently in the process of

doing this in order to familiarize myself with the dental field because

completing another course with Petra, being a Medical Assistant. I’ve also

after I graduate high school, I plan on joining a dental hygiene program.

completed OSHA-10, and I am working on completing the OSHA-30 course.

Hopefully after some experience as a dental hygienist, I’ll begin the path

This has been such an amazing experience and such a big opportunity for

to become a prosthodontist.”

me. The main reason I’ve tried to take advantage of these opportunities is that somewhere in the near future I plan to become a registered nurse. All these courses gave me and continue to provide me with credentials and experience in the medical field. More so, it has prepared me to know a little more about what is expected going into the field.”

Adilene Rodriguez “As a high school student at Rogers New Technology High School, I am taking the medical assistant class. This is my first time taking a medical

Local Medical and Dental Facilities Can Help Make a Difference!

RPS is interested in establishing partnerships with local medical and dental facilities, including to offer students opportunities to expand the scope of their experiences within this career field through job shadowing, internships, work-related field trips, and mentorship projects. Please contact Dawn Stewart, Director of Career and Technical Education, at (479) 636-3910 to learn more about exciting partnership opportunities.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

11

We’re Helping Entrepreneurs Do Business “Your Chamber is on a mission when it comes to helping small business and inspiring entrepreneurial development. We’re providing essential resources and just in time education to help start, run and grow your business.”

– Brad Phillips

SVP of Marketing Communications Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

O

Introducing the new NWA Entrepreneur’s Guide ur new Entrepreneur’s Guide is a free community resource filled with information for those seeking to start a business in Rogers and

Biggest Challenges to Starting and Growing a Business* • Coming up with a great and unique product or service • Having a strong plan and vision for the business • Having sufficient capital and cash flow

Lowell. Whether you need help on where

• Finding great employees

to get a business license or how to find

• Firing bad employees quickly in a way

assistance with taxes, labor laws and insurance

that doesn’t result in legal liability

requirements, this Guide will save you valuable

• Working more than you expected

time during startup planning.

• Not getting discouraged by rejections

Set Yourself Up for Success

• Managing your time efficiently

Starting a business is a huge commitment.

from customers • Maintaining a reasonable work/life balance

Entrepreneurs often fail to appreciate the

• Knowing when to pivot your strategy

significant amount of time, resources, and

• Maintaining the stamina to keep going

energy needed to start, run and grow a business.

12

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

* Source: Richard Harroch, AllBusiness contributor, Forbes.com

even when it’s tough

Download Your Copy Today

We Mean Business, How Can We Help Yours?

Introducing the updated online Small Business Toolkit Our updated online Small Business Toolkit

Chamber Partners with Business and Industry Training (BIT) to Offer Soft Skills Certificate Series Soft skills are often overlooked but are

About the Presenter Gary Griffin is a results-oriented professional with extensive experience in strategic/consultative selling, sales training and leadership development, and sales operations management. As a Regional Training Manager

provides just-in-time education for small

necessary in everyday life. The Rogers-Lowell

Gary delivered on a wide range of tasks

business owners with helpful links to articles

Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to partner

specifically focused on sales and leadership,

and important information on relevant topics

with Business and Industry Training (BIT) to offer

performance coaching, and hands on support

in these content categories:

a three-part Chamber to Community (C2C) Series.

from the Region down to the individual teams

STARTUP Learn about starting a business from concept to planning to doing.

Attending all three programs will result in

within its’ geographic presence.

receiving a soft skills certificate from BIT.

Gary recently moved out of the Corporate America life and works as an independent

Work Life Balance – February 1

consultant in leadership development course

Work- life balance is essential to combat stress,

delivery. He also spends time as a trainer

ensuring both individual and company success. The

for Caption Call, a company that provides a

stress associated with unbalanced lifestyles is costly;

caption-based service to the hard of hearing

Explore strategies for

it damages productivity and increases individual

or deaf, at no cost to the individual, so they

running and growing

health risks. Employees who have the tools to

can carry on what would be considered a

your business.

balance their professional and personal lives are

normal phone conversation. “I help people

happier, healthier, and more productive.

with hearing loss stay socially connected for a

OPERATIONS

OFFICE & HR

In addition to improving performance, many

Make better decisions

younger employees place a high value on work-

protecting your business

life balance. Companies that include work-life

and hiring, managing,

balance as part of their culture will be able to

rewarding and retaining the

better attract qualified candidates. Register here.

best employees.

FINANCE

longer, happier and healthier life.”

Our Mission Work Our Small Business & Entrepreneurial Development mission work creates programming and events to open the door

Presentation Skills – February 15

to new connections for small business to succeed. Check out our Business Connections

This program can benefit anyone who

events calendar.

Manage your small

presents: a trainer, a meeting facilitator, speaker,

business and

or seminar discussion leader. No matter which

We also engage with our Small Business

personal finances.

role you are assuming, this workshop will help

Council that serves as the voice of small business.

you become more efficient and proficient with

It guides our support and programming based

the skills of providing information to others.

upon your needs.

TAX RETURN Learn how to comply with federal and state obligations while lowering your tax bill.

TECHNOLOGY

Register here.

We partner with organizations that are invaluable resources for small business and

Delivering Constructive Criticism – March 1

entrepreneurial startups such as the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development

Constructive criticism can be a helpful

Center, SCORE and Startup Junkie Consulting.

We advocate for small business and offer

Learn about the different ways

tool when used with the intent of helping or

to incorporate and utilize

improving a situation in the workplace. However,

opportunities to influence civic, social and

technology properly into

it can be one of the most challenging things

economic initiatives supporting growth.

your business.

not only to receive, but also to give. It can often

MARKETING

And we offer a variety of affordable

involve various emotions and feelings, which can

advertising and sponsorship opportunities to

make matters delicate. But when management

increase visibility and awareness of your business.

Discover new marketing

learns effective ways to handle and deliver

and promotion tactics, tools,

constructive criticism, employees can not only

business succeed. Call Steve Cox, SVP of

Let us know how we can help your

and techniques.

learn from their mistakes, but even benefit from

Economic Development, at (479) 636-1240 or

them. Register here.

steve@rogerslowell.com.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

13

ADVOCACY & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Mission Key Focus Areas Advocacy & Government Affairs One of the key focus areas of the Chamber’s mission-work is Advocacy & Government Affairs. We serve as the regional link between business and government to ensure the Voice of Business is represented and heard. We engage the community in the political process from contacting a legislator to registering to vote. By working together, our voices influence positive legislative outcomes for business-driven, public policy.

Inside the Arkansas Capitol Building

The Road Ahead

2021 Legislative Session

T

he Advocacy & Government Affairs division of the Chamber

that would enable employees to sue employers and give the

was very active in the Arkansas General Assembly in 2021.

legislature oversight of employer policies regarding vaccination status

Ending the year on a high note, Legislators finished a

and safety policies was introduced in the final days of the regular

Special Legislative session where they approved Governor

session. Some agreements were hammered out to accommodate

Hutchinson’s income tax reduction package.

the legislation that employers could live with. This is no doubt a

The main highlight from the regular session that ended last

contentious and timely issue that should concern employers as we

September was the approval of a Hate Crimes Bill, which was the

approach the Fiscal Session in the Spring, and the next Regular Session

priority piece of legislation contained in the Northwest Arkansas

in 2023.

Regional Business Legislative Agenda. As a result of the passage of the Hate Crimes Bill, Arkansas is no longer one of the few states without a Hate Crimes Law. The work of many people representing

Let’s Get Fiscal Currently there are no major issues other than budget bills that

the Northwest Arkansas business community was instrumental in

are anticipated for the Fiscal Session that begins in February. It is an

developing and implementing the strategy to get that law passed.

election year and legislators will be meeting during the middle of a

However, there were some issues that developed late in the 2021 Session that employers should be very concerned about. Legislation

14

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

Primary Election. Look for legislators to wrap up the budget in short order and return to their districts.

Fill it Up with Regular

in Northwest Arkansas. It is a great concern when you begin to allow

Although the Fiscal Session is anticipated to be low key, the Regular Session in January 2023 will be anything but. Primary Election Candidates for the legislature are already campaigning on themes of making employers more accountable for the policies they develop regarding the vaccine status of their employees.

legislative intrusion into those fundamental sectors of our economy.

What’s the Agenda?

Starting this month, the process of forming the Northwest Arkansas

Candidates are also proposing to introduce legislation that will

Regional Business Legislative

take away power from elected school boards to set the educational

Agenda will begin. You are a valued

and administrative policies for their districts. It is unclear at this time

member of the business community

what those measures will look like, but they are being talked about.

in Northwest Arkansas. If you have

Northwest Arkansas contains some of the highest performing school

any ideas or suggestions that you

districts in the state, and the teachers and staff employed by these

would like to share for the Regional

districts are paid very well compared to districts across the State.

Legislative Agenda, please contact

This is a big part of the phenomenal success our region has enjoyed.

Jon Moran. (jon@rogerslowell.com)

Our locally elected school boards, teachers, and district officials have done an excellent job of educating and preparing our children, and this region for future growth. Educational attainment and a healthy business environment are the foundation of the prosperity we enjoy

Jon Moran SVP of Government Affairs

It’s time to start planning your next adventure...

Save the dates:

Then head to VisitRogersArkansas.com to learn more about what all there is to do around Northwest Arkansas and finish planning your stay!

Follow Visit Rogers on Social Media: w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

15

December Art on the Bricks Art Walk Promoted The Art of Shopping Local #ShopNWA

P

atrons from around Rogers and

#ShopNWA and was designed to showcase the

enhances quality of life, creates jobs, attracts

Northwest Arkansas converged on

talent of creatives from Northwest Arkansas

additional investments, and stimulates local

Downtown Rogers December 9 to

through various forms of art, music, dance, and

economies.

experience The Art of Shopping

theatre while shopping for the holidays.

Local and support local artists,

restaurants, and retail shops during the Downtown Rogers Art on the Bricks Art Walk.

Giving the Gift of Art The holiday season can be critical for local

Promoting Downtown Rogers Art on the Bricks is honored to promote Downtown Rogers as a destination location for

businesses. Arts and culture-related industries,

nightlife, dining, shopping, and art experiences.

also known as “creative industries,” provide

This free, family friendly experience is a

direct economic benefits to the local economy.

program of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of

activities including art galleries, pop-up art

They enhance quality of life, create jobs, attract

Commerce. The event partners with Visit Rogers

exhibits, holiday open houses, a silent auction,

new investments, and generate local tax

(a division of the Chamber), business owners,

live music, open mic night, karaoke, free family

revenue. When shoppers Give the Gift of Art and

area nonprofit organizations and participating

Christmas photos, non-fungible tokens (NFTs)

support Downtown Rogers businesses, their

artists. The list of businesses and artists changes

and more. The event encouraged people to

purchases support the local arts and culture that

from month to month, but the art experiences

Showcasing Local Creative Talent The 2nd Thursday art walk featured

“When you Shop NWA, you help create jobs for your friends and neighbors, contribute to improved public infrastructure and invest in your community both socially and economically. Dollars spent with local businesses generate state and local tax revenue to fix roads, build parks, support schools, retain jobs, and keep a higher percentage of dollars in the local economy.”

– Karen Wagaman

consistently provide new and interesting opportunities for the public to connect at this crossroads of art and commerce.

CLICK HERE to see the list of Downtown Rogers businesses that contribute to the creative economy.

CLICK HERE to sign up for the Go Downtown Rogers weekly newsletter, a program of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of

Vice President of Downtown Developmment Commerce, your source for what’s happening in Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Downtown Rogers.

16

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

17

Rogers Historical Museum Announces New Exhibit “Thrift Style”

T

The Rogers Historical Museum is located at 313 S. Second St., at the corner of Second and Cherry in the Rogers Historic District.

They are open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

For more information, visit rogershistoricalmuseum.org or call (479) 621-1154. General admission is free.

hrift Style, a traveling exhibit from Exhibits USA, explores the reuse of feed sacks to make clothing and other

Sustainability and Recycling The artifacts in the exhibition demonstrate a mutual goal of

household objects and illuminates how the “upcycling”

sustainability, with local businesses — mills and feed and seed

of these bags mutually benefitted twentieth-century

operations — tailoring product design and marketing campaigns to

consumers and businesses. With forty-one works from

attract customers; and consumers using their imaginations and practical

patterns to garments, it serves as an example of past ingenuity that

skills to tailor clothing, aprons, quilts, dolls, and more out of the

can inform today’s efforts towards sustainability. Thrift Style will be on

industry’s byproduct: feed sack cotton. This exhibition offers a snapshot

show through January 19 at the Rogers Historical Museum.

of domestic life during this time, when recycling was as critical as it

A Nostalgic View into American Ingenuity, Sensibility and Optimism The exhibition, organized by the Historic Costume and Textile Museum and the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, both at Kansas State University, provides a nostalgic view into American ingenuity, sensibility, and optimism during a particularly challenging time of economic hardship and war—the period of the Great Depression and World War II. The reuse of feed, flour, and sugar sacks was a cost-saving and resource-saving approach employed by homemakers to make new items to meet their families’ needs.

In the 1920s and ‘30s, manufacturers began producing patterned and colored feed sacks to give home seamstresses more options.

During World War II, the federal government limited fabric use for individual garments and homemakers were obligated to use thrifty approaches to repurpose what was available to them. As fabrics from feed sacks were not considered a limited resource, women turned to them as an accessible and patriotic option during the war effort. In response, trade organizations and manufacturers promoted the thrifty use of feed sack fabric by publishing how-to brochures and booklets with clothing designs, mending instructions, and other suggestions for restyling clothes.

18

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

is today, and it provides one of the best examples of upcycling in our nation’s history.

Arkansas Public Theatre Hosting Second Rogers Short Film Festival

T

he Arkansas Public Theatre and StudioChunky will host and present the Rogers Short Film Festival, March 4-6 at the Victory Theater in historic downtown Rogers.

Tickets will be available for purchase in mid-January, purchased online at www.ArkansasPublicTheatre.org, or

at the door throughout the festival. Day passes will include access to

Important Dates Submission Deadline: February 7, 2022 Notification Date: February 14, 2022 Festival Dates: March 4 - 6, 2022 Awards and Prizes

screenings and awards. VIP Passes will include access to screenings,

• K-12 Narrative Film Winner

networking events, lounge, filmmaker workshops, entertainment,

• K-12 Documentary Winner

awards, and after parties over the course of the weekend.

• K-12 Animation Winner

Film Submissions will be accepted through February 7, 2022. The

• Undergraduate/ Graduate Narrative Film Winner

list of Official Film Selections will be released on February 14, 2022.

• Undergraduate/ Graduate Documentary Winner

Media are invited and encouraged to attend, as well as filmmakers, crew,

• Undergraduate/ Graduate Animation Winner

family, and friends to celebrate the art of film. Current sponsors, donors,

• Amateur Narrative Film Winner

volunteers, and judges of Rogers Short Film Festival and Arkansas

• Amateur Documentary Winner

Public Theatre will also be in attendance. For film submissions and more

• Amateur Animation Winner

information, visit www.filmfreeway.com/RogersShortFilmFestival, or

• Professional Narrative Film Winner

email rogersshortfilmfestival@studiochunky.com.

• Professional Documentary Winner

The Rogers Short Film Festival lets you compete against your peers in

• Professional Animation Winner

categories based on your experience and budget. Watch your film screened

• K-12 Judge’s Special Selection

at the dazzling Victory Theater and explore the entertainment district in

• Undergraduate/ Graduate Judge’s Special Selection

historic Downtown Rogers. It is a groovy, non-stop weekend filled with

• Amateur Judge’s Special Selection

screenings, networking, workshops, food, music, and entertainment!

• Professional Judge’s Special Selection • Best of Fest

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

19

Walmart AMP Announces Variety of 2022 Shows

T

he Walmart Arkansas Music

Awards. His Soul2Soul II Tour, which was done in

and Crystal Ball (1976) reached the US top

Pavilion (AMP) recently announced

partnership with his wife, Faith Hill, is one of the

70 with the first featuring “Lorelei.” The Styx’s

upcoming concerts that will bring

highest-grossing tours in country music history,

commercial breakthrough in North America

headlining performers to Rogers this

and one of the top five among all genres of

came with The Grand Illusion (1977), which

year. Below are shows scheduled to

music. He has sold more than 80 million records

peaked at No. 6 in both the US and Canada and

worldwide, making him one of the best-selling

became the first of four straight triple-platinum

music artists of all time.

albums in the US for The Styx. It featured the

take the stage:

Friday, April 29 - Tim McGraw with Russell Dickerson | McGraw Tour 2022 Monday, June 13 - REO Speedwagon Tim McGraw has released 16 studio albums, and Styx with Loverboy 10 of which have reached number one on

REO Speedwagon is an American rock band

single “Come Sail Away”, a top 10 hit in both countries. The band’s follow-up, Pieces of Eight (1978), was another No. 6 hit in the US. In 1979, Styx’s Cornerstone went to No. 2 in both

the Top Country Albums charts, with his 1994

from Champaign, Illinois. Formed in 1967, the

countries on the strength of the cross-border

breakthrough album Not a Moment Too Soon

band cultivated a following during the 1970s

No. 1 hit ballad “Babe”. In 1981, Styx’s Paradise

being the top country album of 1994. In total,

and achieved significant commercial success

Theatre was a No. 1 album in the US. “The Best

McGraw’s albums have produced 65 singles, 25

throughout the 1980s. The group’s best-selling

of Times” off the album reached No. 3 in the

of which have reached number one on the Hot

album, Hi Infidelity (1980), contained four US

US while “Too Much Time on My Hands” was

Country Songs or Country Airplay charts. Three

Top 40 hits and sold more than 10 million copies.

also a top 10 hit in North America. Kilroy Was

of these singles – “It’s Your Love”, “Just to See You

Over the course of their career, the band has sold

Here (1983) was Styx’s last major hit album,

Smile”, and “Live Like You Were Dying” – were

more than 40 million records and has charted 13

reaching the top 3 in North America. Its lead

respectively the top country songs of 1997,

Top 40 hits, including the number ones “Keep On

single, “Mr. Roboto”, was a No. 3 hit in the US.

1998, and 2004 according to Billboard Year-End.

Loving You” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling.”

After a seven-year break, Styx returned with

He has also won three Grammy Awards, 14

The Styx are an American rock band from

Edge of the Century (1990), which reached No.

Academy of Country Music awards, 11 Country

Chicago that formed in 1972. Styx II (1973)

63 in the US with its single, “Show Me the Way”,

Music Association (CMA) awards, 10 American

had the sleeper hit “Lady”, a power ballad

becoming a top three hit in North America in

Music Awards, and three People’s Choice

which reached No. 6 in the US. Equinox (1975)

early 1991.

20

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

They rose to international fame while touring

second LP, Dangerous: The Double Album (2021),

in 1979. Loverboy’s hit singles, particularly “Turn

Loverboy is a Canadian rock band formed

with One Direction on their Take Me Home Tour.

he was one of the biggest stars in contemporary

Me Loose” and “Working for the Weekend”, have

They have since released three studio albums

country music, affirmed by a lengthy reign on

become arena rock staples and are still heard on

and headlined three world tours.

the Billboard 200.

many classic rock and classic hits radio stations across Canada and the United States.

Tuesday, June 21 - Chicago and Brian Wilson with Al Jardine and Blondie Chaplin In their 50+ years of existence, Chicago

Thursday, August 18 - Keith Urban with Sunday, September 18 - Goo Goo Ingrid Andress | The Speed of Now Dolls with Blue October | Summer World Tour 2022 Tour 2022 Keith Urban has spent the better part

The Goo Goo Dolls broke records,

of his life harnessing a deep-seated passion

contributed a string of staples to the American

for music. This, when combined with his

songbook, connected to millions of fans, and

have sold over 100 million records, making

authenticity, talent and driving musical

indelibly impacted popular music for three-

them one of the best-selling music groups

inquisitiveness, helps to understand why he is

plus decades. Beyond selling 15 million records

of all time. They found success with both

one of the most successful and well-respected

worldwide, the group garnered four Grammy

their original progressive sound, including

artists in the world. He’s won four GRAMMY©

Awards® nominations and seized a page in

early hits “Make Me Smile” and “25 or 6 to 4”,

Awards, thirteen CMAs, fifteen ACMs, three

the history books by achieving 16 No. 1 and

as well as their later, soft-rock based sound

AMAs, two People’s Choice Awards and

top 10 hits. They hold the all-time radio record

developed in the 1980s, including “Hard to Say

celebrated nine consecutive gold, platinum, or

for “Most Top 10 Singles.” Among a string of

I’m Sorry” and “You’re the Inspiration.” To date,

multi-platinum albums.

hits, “Iris” clutched No. 1 on the Hot 100 for

the band has 23 Gold, 18 Platinum, and eight multi-Platinum albums, five consecutive No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200, 20 top 10 singles on the Billboard Hot 100, 10 Grammy Award®

18 straight weeks and would be named “No. 1

Friday, August 26 - Morgan Wallen with HARDY | The Dangerous Tour

Top 40 Song of the Last 20 Years.” Thus far, A Boy Named Goo went double-Platinum, Dizzy

Morgan Wallen sings plenty of songs about

Up The Girl went quadruple-Platinum, and

nominations, one Grammy win, a Grammy

happy hours and “Whiskey Glasses” -- the latter

Gutterflower and Let Love In both went Gold

Lifetime Achievement Award, and an induction

gave him his first solo number one country

as Something for the Rest of Us and Magnetic

of its original members into the Rock and Roll

single -- but his romantic streak when combined

bowed in the Top 10 of the Billboard Top 200.

Hall of Fame.

with a sense of playfulness has helped him

Tuesday, June 28 - 5 Seconds of Summer 5 Seconds of Summer (often abbreviated as 5SOS) are an Australian pop rock band from

View a full list of concerts happening in 2022 here.

break away from the pack. Several years after his successful 2014 run on the televised singing competition The Voice, he signed with Big Loud Records and debuted with the Top Ten album If I Know Me (2018). By the time he released his

Sydney, New South Wales, formed in 2011.

The group were originally YouTube celebrities, posting videos of themselves covering songs from various artists during 2011 and early 2012.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

21

Unique Lodging Group Discounts Educational Tours

TURPENTINE CREEK R

e

es WILDLIFE REFUGE id cu i nw ng E x o t i c C a t s Na t i o

New P.A.W. Club Program New Spacious Habitats New Membership Options

A “Top Ten” Family Attraction and Ethical Animal Tourism Destination!

TCWR.org

479.253.5841 7 Miles South of Eureka Springs on Highway 23.

239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs, AR 72632 22

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

Pig Trail Harley-Davidson Donation Helps Nine Local Nonprofits in Hard-hit Fundraising Year

P

ig Trail Harley-Davidson of Rogers has donated $50,000 to support nine Northwest Arkansas charitable organizations for the holidays.

The following organizations benefitted from this generous donation:

• Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter • Northwest Arkansas Food Bank

• Circle of Life Hospice • Got your 6ix • Arkansas Special Olympics • Grandma’s House Children’s Advocacy Center • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention-Arkansas • Dinners For Veterans • NWA Veterans Treatment Court “2021 has been a prosperous year for us and we are in a position to return blessings to our

community partners,” said Pig Trail Harley-Davidson’s Paul Johnson They hosted a check presentation ceremony December 20 on location at 2409 W. Hudson Rd. This event followed Pig Trail Harley-Davidson’s 16th Annual Benton County Toy Run on December 4 during which 150 motorcycles paraded throughout Rogers to deliver Christmas gifts to the NWA Children’s Shelter.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

23

NWA Emerging Leaders Offers Mix of Business & Fun in 2022

N

orthwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL) exists

give ready, willing, and able future leaders the training and platforms

to connect and engage the up-and-coming talent in

required to transition them into long-term, impactful positions for our

Northwest Arkansas through personal and professional

community. This is achieved by offering members a variety of personal

development experiences.

and professional development opportunities through the NWA Young

Membership is open to anyone in Northwest

Arkansas that has a desire to get involved in the community, expand their leadership skills, and become engaged in the program of work.

There are no ongoing requirements or minimum participation levels. The program is part of the Chamber’s Community Development mission-work to prepare leaders for future regional challenges.

Personal and Professional Development NWAEL’s top priority is to infuse new talent with existing leadership

Professional Summit, LEAD NWA Series, Board Service Certification Training, and Political Service Training.

Connecting Young Professionals Another priority of NWAEL is to connect future leaders to other up-and-coming leaders by hosting multiple happy hours and socials throughout the calendar year. NWAEL offers one-of-a-kind experiences. View a full calendar of events and programming at www.NWAEmergingLeaders.com.

and inspire action. The premise is to actively seek ways and means to

PRESENTING SP ONSOR

SATURDAY, APRIL 23 | 2022 LEARN MORE & REGISTER TODAY at RogersLowell.com!

24

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

Chamber’s Member Engagement Committee Celebrates 6th year

T

he Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce’s Member

opportunities that best suit their business or non-profit organization; and

Engagement Committee held its final meeting of 2021 on

supporting members through mentoring and being a trusted resource.

November 16 and welcomed three new Committee members

Formed in 2016, the Member Engagement Committee visits an

and incoming Chair Shauna Shrum, Director of CPG + Shopper

average of 120 members a year, which helps the Chamber identify member

Partnerships with iHeartMedia.

needs and concerns.

What does the Committee Do? The Committee helps strengthen member engagement by visiting

“The vision of the Committee is a membership where all members are informed, connected, engaged, and feel supported and the Committee helps the Chamber achieve this goal,” said Marni Rogers, Member Relations

with members to help them maximize their Chamber membership.

Manager. “Our volunteers are an integral part of the Chamber and enhance

The focus areas of the Committee are connecting members with other

the connectivity of our members. They share their time and expertise to

members to help increase their exposure and customer base; informing

guide members on how to connect, invest, and grow with us.”

members how to maximize investment to foster growth in business and our community; engaging members by visiting key staff and showing

Brian Devecsery, Sales & Marketing Manager with SERVPRO, joined the Committee in 2018 and served as Committee Chair in 2020 and 2021. The Chamber presented Brian with a volunteer service award for his leadership

“I’m excited about leading this committee and continuing the established efforts by previous committee chairs. We will fulfill the mission of the membership engagement committee of connecting, informing, engaging, and supporting our Chamber members while strengthening the relationships of this committee and incorporating fun into the process.”

– Shauna Shrum

Director of CPG + Shopper Partnerships with iHeartMedia Incoming Chair - Member Engagement Committee

on the Committee. We are grateful for his continued support of the Chamber’s mission and efforts in growing the Committee.

Cox Media sponsored lunch and presented information about their products and services.

Watch this video to learn more about the Member Engagement Committee. For more information on this volunteer opportunity, please contact Marni Rogers at marni@rogerslowell.com.

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

25

NEW MEMBERS | November 2021 GARVER - ROGERS

PROLIFT GARAGE DOORS OF BENTONVILLE

SIMPLY DIVINE CATERING, LLC

4300 S. J.B. HUNT DR., STE. 240 | ROGERS, AR 72758 (479) 257-9188 | WWW.GARVERUSA.COM ENGINEERS-CIVIL/ENVIRONMENTAL/ CONSULTING/TESTING

BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 319-8688 | WWW.PROLIFTDOORS.COM/BENTONVILLE GARAGE/OVERHEAD DOOR SALES, INSTALL, REPAIR

1200 WEST WALNUT ST. | ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 263-1343 | WWW.SIMPLYDIVINENWA.NET CATERERS

MEANWHILE, LLC

RE/MAX REAL ESTATE RESULTS - TIM MCKELVY

THE LITTLE CANDLE OF NWA, LLC

BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 222-0414 | WWW.MEANWHILELLC.COM CONSULTING - BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT

3103 SE MOBERLY LN. | BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 (479) 264-3919 | TIM.NWAHOUSEHUNTERS.COM REAL ESTATE - COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

112 NORTH 3RD STREET | ROGERS, AR 72756 (949) 702-1620 | WWW.SHOPLITTLECANDLECO.COM RETAIL - CANDLES & ACCESSORIES

NORTHWEST HEALTH EMERGENCY & URGENT CARE SCATES CONSTRUCTION NWA 1580 E. CENTERTON BLVD. | BENTONVILLE, AR (479) 553-2150 | WWW.NORTHWESTHEALTH.COM CLINICS & MEDICAL GROUPS

ROGERS, AR 72756 (479) 841-1664 | WWW.SCATESCONSTRUCTIONNWA.COM CONSTRUCTION - COMMERCIAL

November 2021

AMY KEEVER GALLERY 120 SOUTH MAIN ST., BENTONVILLE

ARKANSAS BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD 5288 W. DON TYSON PKWY., SPRINGDALE

26

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

BRICK LANE

113 S. 2ND ST., ROGERS

November 2021

COLLIER & ASSOCIATES

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

NORTHWEST HEALTH EMERGENCY & URGENT CARE

OZARK REGIONAL TRANSIT

5100 W. PARK AVE., STE. A122, ROGERS

ROGERS

2423 E. ROBINSON AVE., SPRINGDALE

Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

MORRIS CROWN CREATIONS 614 N. 2ND ST., STE. B1, ROGERS

PHO 85 NOODLE HOUSE

1140 N. WALTON BLVD., STE. 3, BENTONVILLE

1580 E. CENTERTON BLVD., BENTONVILLE

WOODRIDGE RETAIL GROUP 614 N. 2ND ST., STE. A, ROGERS

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

27

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | November 2021 30+ YEARS

Rey Hernandez HP Engineering, Inc Humane Society for Animals, Inc. INTRUST Bank Janacek Construction Midwest Block and Brick Northwest Arkansas Food Bank Northwest Arkansas Naturals Baseball Northwest Arkansas Pediatrics, a MANA Clinic NWA Health Solutions Old Town Autobody & Sales, Inc. Best Sign Group Ozark Regional Transit CK Harp & Associates Paychex, Inc. Eureka Pizza Pig Trail Harley-Davidson Lifeline of Northwest Arkansas Rogers Community School Recreation Association Lindsey & Associates - Martha Prowell / The Prowell Team The Rose Antique Mall & Flea Market Northwest Arkansas Home Builders Association Shelley M. Parson Insurance Agency Rick McLeod - Farmers Insurance Group Shelter Insurance - Keri Earwood Rogers Noon Kiwanis Club Stout Executive Search Sonic Drive-In UniFirst Corporation Unruh Chiropractic & Wellness Center Walmart Supercenter Store #5260 Moser Corporation - 74 years Rogers Land Company Real Estate - 70 years Black Hills Energy - 55 years Realty Title - 45 years Tyson Foods, Inc. - 45 years Executive Coffee Service - 43 years CEI Engineering Associates, Inc. - 38 years Scenic Highway 12 Association - 37 years

21-30 YEARS

11-20 YEARS

Acosta Sales & Marketing BancorpSouth Bogle Properties Broadaway Printing Children’s Advocacy Center of Benton County Choctaw Casino Citizens Bank Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill Elite Title Company, Inc. Fairfield Inn & Suites of Rogers

28

C h a m b e r Vo i ce | JA N UA RY 2 02 2

6-10 YEARS

Beaver Lake Vacation Rentals, LLC BNSF Logistics, LLC Download Networking LLC Elizabeth Richardson Center England Family Dental Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers In Retrospect Vintage - Kitsch - Fleatabulous Kelsey’s Beaver LakeHomes& Retreat Center Lenny’s Sub Shop Levi’s Gastrolounge

Meister & McCracken Law Firm Quadrivium Sam’s Furniture Tortilleria La Popular LLC Tusk and Trotter American Brasserie Vold Vision

2-5 YEARS

A.G. Russell Knives All About Smiles Crye-Leike, Realtors - Pleasant Grove E2open Element Bentonville Flip Side Ninja Park Innerplan Office Interiors Lee Kissinger - eXp Realty NWA Branch MHC Kenwort/Volvo NWA Ballet Theatre Simple Pleasures

1 YEAR

Equity Business Solutions, LLC Eustasis Psychiatric & Addiction Health HOTWORX Rogers Jiffy Lube Bentonville Pacheco Law Firm PA Pastel Pet Portraits RE/MAX Real Estate Results - Tim McKelvy Restoration Village NWA Turner Financial Veritas Restoration South

Chamber Business Connect & Educational Events The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a variety of events to help build your network and learn.

Below are the upcoming events to note. For more event details and to register, visit us online at RogersLowell.com.

SPECIAL NOTE** | Participants of Events, Meetings & Gatherings As Northwest Arkansas gets back to business, the safety of our staff

With this in mind, see some of our events below with requirements

and our community is the number one priority. We want to ensure you

for in-person attendance or notes about ways to attend virtually. Be sure

that we take public health very seriously. In compliance with the health

to check RogersLowell.com, review our eNewsletters (Monday Memo and

directives and guidelines issued by Governor Asa Hutchinson and the

Calendar at a Glance), and follow us on social media for updates about our

Arkansas Department of Health, we are taking the necessary steps to slow

events and meetings as well as developments that might affect business in

the spread of COVID-19 and protect those of high risk.

Northwest Arkansas.

JAN

Every Wednesday

11

Presented By | Equity Business Solutions January Host Sponsor | Lamar Advertising Company

Location | Golden Corral Address | 2605 W Pleasant Crossing Dr., Rogers

JAN

& SERVPRO

Location | Village on the Park Rogers Address | 2200 W. Laurel Ave., Rogers

JAN

18

19

Hosted By | Rogers School Board Presented By | Nabholz Construction Address | Rogers School Board District

Presented By | Dalby Dental Care

Gold Sponsor | Nabholz Construction Location | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Address | 317 West Walnut St., Rogers

JAN

13

Location | Downtown Rogers Businesses Theme | “Pandemonium: Turning Chaos into Creativity”

JAN

20

Host Sponsor | Cherokee Casino & Hotel Location | Cherokee Casino & Hotel Address | 2416 US-412 | West Siloam Springs, OK

Administrative Office – 500 W. Walnut St., Rogers

2022

In , the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce will celebrate our 100th anniversary.

Click here to view a preview of what to expect as we move forward into our next

100 years!

w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | JANUARY2022

29