Chamber Voice of Business Newsletter | November 2022

November 2022 | Vol 17 Issue 11

Newest Chamber Event Celebrates Community’s Cultural Diversity Frisco Station Mall in Rogers was beaming with music, food, and dancing October 15 for the Chamber’s NWA Community Showcase Presented by PepsiCo. The newest Chamber event serves as a platform for businesses to connect with other businesses and consumers in the community by showcasing their products and services.

See Story on Page 4

W HAT ’ S IN TH IS I SSUE ?

3�������� Chamber Staff & Board of Directors 4�������� Newest Chamber Event Celebrates Community’s Cultural Diversity 6 ������� Hustle in Heels Ladies Lead NWA Upcoming Events 7 �������� Chamber Hosts 6th Annual Sporting Clays Classic 8�������� Gus Reyes-Jacobo Named Ambassador of the 3rd Quarter 9 ������� Celebrating 2022 Leadership Benton County Graduating Class 11 ������ Chamber Night Connects Members to Educators 13 ����� Chamber Celebrates National Chamber of Commerce Day 14 ����� November Art on the Bricks Features Work of Military Veterans 15����� Chamber Launches New Podcast Episode, Social Media Channels 16����� Enhancing Workforce Growth in Northwest Arkansas 19����� Focus on the Community Articles • CBI Northwest Arkansas Offers Important Advice on Preparing to Sell Your Business • Eagle Watch Cruises Begin at Hobbs State Park • Loloft Announces Grand Opening in Downtown Rogers • Preformed line products to complete rogers expansion • Yeyo’s Named Top 50 Restaurant in America • Downtown Hosts Fun Oktoberfest Craft Beer Festival

26���� Bikes, Blues & BBQ Completes Inaugural Event in Rogers 28���� Visit Rogers Honored with ConventionSouth Annual Readers’ Choice Award

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 P: (479) 636-1240 F: (479) 636-5485

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29���� Connecting Job Seekers with Employers 30 ��� Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving 32���� NEW MEMBERS & RIBBON CUTTINGS | September 2022 34 ��� MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | September 2022 35���� Chamber Business Connect & Educational Events

CHAMBER S TA FF Raymond Burns, CCE President/CEO rburns@rogerslowell.com

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

Sara Lynn Geiger Vice President of Government Affairs sara@rogerslowell.com

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

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

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

Nick Smith Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com

Skylar Rutherford Marketing Communications Manager skylar@rogerslowell.com

Katie Burns Vice President of Operations katie@rogerslowell.com

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

Loretta Gomez Finance Manager loretta@rogerslowell.com

Justin Freeman Marketing Communications Manager justin@rogerslowell.com

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

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

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

Meredith Alvarez Customer Relations Specialist meredith@rogerslowell.com

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

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

Jacque Eakins Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

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

2022 DIRECTORS

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

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

2024 DIRECTORS

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

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS 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.

David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade

Cathy Foraker, AT&T David Foster, APAC - Central, Inc. Bradley Hardin, AEP/SWEPCO Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers Tom Hopper, Tallchamps, LLC Corry Hull, BHC Insurance Emily Ironside, Crystal Bridges Museum Dr. Evelyn E. Jorgenson, Northwest Arkansas Community College Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center Chris Moore, Mayor, City of Lowell

DIVISION CHAIRS Community Development – Josh Vasquez Membership Services – Tanya Smith Economic Development – Brad Crain

Government Affairs – Angela Grayson Destination Marketing – Larry Cooper

Barry Moehring, Benton County Judge Joey Msall, Black Hills Energy Mickey Rapier, Fellowship Bible Church Rafael Rios, Yeyo’s Mezcaleria & Taqueria at the 1907 Dr. Jim Rollins, Northwest Technical Institute Denise Thomas, Arkansas World Trade Center Scott Tidwell, Matthews, Campbell, Rhoads, McClure & Thompson Dick Trammel, Chairman Emeritus Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods

AUDIT COMMITTEE Ron Branscum Knight Weis Brandy Tuft

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...Continued from Page 1

The Northwest Arkansas Community Showcase brought the cultural diversity of nwa and business together in one event Why it matters: One of the Chamber’s key

several food trucks, cultural presentations such as Danza Azteca and Salvadorian dancing, and perhaps the most popular event – a Battle of the Chefs.

focus areas for our mission-work is Small Business & Entrepreneurial Development.

• We have a passion for curating and providing And the winner is: Chefs participating in the business owners with essential resources for starting, food competition were Chef Hilman Abdurahman of running, and growing business.

Takashimura Hibachi, Chef Rafael Ríos of Yeyo’s and Chef • We also like to open doors to new connections for Gladys Aguilar of Taqueria Salvymex. our diverse group of small businesspeople through • Judges Choice winner was Chef Abdurahman with a entrepreneurial events and programming. steak, chicken and vegetable stir fry dish.

• People’s Choice Winner was Chef Aguilar with freshly What they’re saying: Sixty vendors enjoyed a made pupusas. festive atmosphere and conducted business with a variety of new clients that showed up to celebrate the unique culture our area has to offer during Hispanic Heritage Month.

“This was a fantastic event. I received many emails and made new connections in just a few hours from the Community Showcase that I am looking forward to exploring further, “ said Martha Londagin of Startup Junkie and KIVA Northwest Arkansas.

The Showcase featured a kids zone with inflatables,

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Think ‘Shark Tank’: The event culminated in Startup Junkie’s IdeaFame Elevator Pitch Competition.

Participants presented new entrepreneurial ideas on stage for a chance to win $1,000 and judges were able to vote on their favorite idea.

• Judges Choice winner was Tahamara Ibarra for her translation and interpretation business idea.

• People’s Choice went to Carmen Ramirez for her Cafecitos Antiques idea.

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Hustle in heels ladies lead nwa upcoming events November luncheon: Empowered Customer Service • Tuesday, November 8, 2022 • 11:30 am - 1:00 pm • Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield NWA Corporate Center 5288 W Don Tyson Pkwy. Springdale, AR 72762 • Registration required: $25 ticket includes lunch • About the speaker: Darshan Lundy is the Director of Customer Experience at America’s Car-Mart located in Rogers. She began her journey into Customer Experience in her youth as a grocery store cashier, “where customer service starts.” After college, Darshan worked as a Regional Human Resources Manager and Area Operations Manager in the auto industry before taking on her current role as the Director of Customer Experience for Car-Mart. Darshan considers herself a trailblazer in the area of “customer experience” and strives for a level of legendary service that creates lifelong customers and makes a positive impact on people’s lives.

Her mantra is the famous Maya Angelou quote - “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” She is currently studying to become a Certified Customer Experience Professional (CCXP) with the Customer Experience Professionals Association.

hustle in heels 5th Anniversary Party • Tuesday, November 29, 2022 • 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm • Ozark Axe House 718 North 2nd Street, Suite 102 Rogers, AR 72756 • Registration required: $10 ticket includes axe throwing activity • About the event: Hustle In Heels invites you to celebrate our 5th anniversary by throwing some axes at Ozark Axe House. This networking event is a celebration of the 2022 Hustle In Heels programs and the 5th anniversary of Hustle In Heels. There will be plenty of networking, door prizes, a look back at the past five years, and a preview of what Hustle In Heels has in store for 2023.

• The venue is Bring Your Own Beverage (adult or otherwise), and you are encouraged to do so. We will be providing light appetizers and select beverages as well.

• A signed liability waiver is required to throw axes and you can fill it out in advance by clicking here.

WANT TO JOIN THE HUSTLE IN HEELS COMMITTEE? • Deadline to Apply: Wednesday, November 30 • Apply now by clicking here!

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Chamber Hosts 6th Annual Sporting Clays Classic The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce’s 6th Annual Sporting Clays Classic was held at Gunsmoke Sporting Clays in Garfield on October 14.

Like golfing with a shotgun:

Shooters showed up to compete and connect with other business professionals on the range. Participants were provided breakfast, lunch, snacks, ammo, goodie bags and beverages.

Shooters test accuracy and consistency:

The Classic features a variety of shooting stations, each presenting a different challenge for shooters. Some clay pigeons are launched high into the air, some parallel to the machine, and some even bounce across the ground to test the shooters’ aim.

A.M. Flight Winner: Rose Antique Mall

P.M. Flight Winner: Preformed Line Products

why we do it: Proceeds from this event are invested back into economic development mission-work of the Chamber.

THANK YOU TO OUR generous SPONSORS:

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Gus Reyes-Jacobo Named Ambassador of the 3rd Quarter The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce has selected Gus Reyes-Jacobo as the Ambassador of the Third Quarter. He has served as an Ambassador for the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce for two years and is also involved in several other area nonprofit organizations.

Serving the Community: Gus currently serves as the AVP/Hispanic Community Officer for Generations Bank. Within his role, he serves as a liaison between the Spanish-speaking community of Northwest Arkansas and Generations Bank. Coupled with his passion for helping people and his banking knowledge, Gus works closely with the Spanish-speaking community to ensure their individual banking needs are met while building a trustworthy relationship.

Outside of Work: Originally born in Mexico, Gus is the oldest sibling of a first-generation immigrant family.

At the age of four, his family moved to Rogers. Gus is a graduate of Rogers High School and obtained his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas in Public Relations and Broadcast Journalism. Gus is a big Razorback fan and enjoys music, camping, road trips and visiting local coffee shops. He also enjoys serving at Cross Church as a youth mentor and drummer for the worship team.

Congratulations Gus and thank you for your support!

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Celebrating 2022

Leadership Benton County Graduating Class

Future leaders graduate:

Leadership Benton County (LBC), a program of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, honored its graduates for the 2022 class in September.

Why it matters: The LBC program provides training specific to regional issues facing the county, and serves as the Chamber’s training ground for future leaders in Benton County.

Details of the program: • • • •

Goals of the 11-session program include: Identification and motivation of individuals with leadership potential Acquainting participants with community needs, challenges and opportunities Offering a forum for dealing with community issues Challenging future leaders to become involved with local issues and the decision-making process

Congratulations to our LBC Class of 2022! We are confident that this class will go on to do great things for business and community. w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | NOVEMBER2022

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DARBY GETS IT RIGHT WEEKNIGHTS

5:00 . 6:00 . 9:00 . 10:00

ACCURATE FORECASTS ON THE GO! DOWNLOAD THE 40/29 NEWS AND WEATHER APP TODAY! 10

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Chamber night connects members to educators Chamber members were able to meet, visit and recognize members of the Rogers School Board at the Chamber Night Reception held during the Rogers School Board of Education meeting on October 19.

showing our support: The Chamber Night Reception provides members the opportunity to not only learn more about our schools but also to confirm our business community’s support of our educators.

President/CEO Raymond Burns: “This event exposes Chamber members to our community leaders and inspires members to become interested and involved which is very important for the future of our community.”

Help us support local businesses by shopping with them during the holidays in person, on their websites, and spreading the word about your favorite places to shop in Rogers and NWA. To help you promote #ShopNWA, we have created a folder of logo assets for the campaign that can be used on your company websites and social media. Learn more about the campaign and download a zip file with jpgs and pngs that you can use to encourage your followers to #ShopNWA. Click here to head to the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce website to download ShopNWA assets and help spread the message to Support Local! w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | NOVEMBER2022

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FREE AND OPEN TO MEMBERS

Wed. December 7, 2022 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Baggett-Trammel Conference Room 317 W. Walnut St.| Rogers, AR 72756 Donating door prizes for the Chamber's events is an effective strategy to gain awareness of your business and showcase your products and services! If you are interested in donating door prizes for 2023, come to this members-only Door Prize Luncheon on Wednesday, December 7.

We're Making Donating Door Prizes Convenient Bring all of the door prizes that you wish to donate for events next year with you. We'll earmark and store them, and ensure they are given away for you at the events you choose. It's a convenient way to donate your door prizes for the entire year all at once and a great opportunity to get your business name in front of event attendees.

Every Wednesday 9:00 am - 10:15 am

Golden Corral

2605 W. Pleasant Crossing Dr. | Rogers Central Referral Connection is a weekly Business-to-Business networking and referral event that meets each Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. at Golden Corral: 2605 W. Pleasant Crossing Drive Rogers, Arkansas.

Join us for this complimentary luncheon.

It's our way of saying thanks for your donation and support of the Chamber's events.

If you are looking to connect to businesses in Northwest Arkansas, come and join us for coffee, breakfast snacks and great connections. Please feel free to pass this invitation along to your contact sphere and bring business cards and/or brochures to distribute.

Fill Out Donation Forms, Register and RSVP now at

Learn more at

This is an opportunity to market your business at 30+ Events in 2023!

www.RogersLowell.com

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www.RogersLowell.com

Chamber Celebrates National Chamber of Commerce Day What happened: Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson proclaimed: • The week of October 17-21, 2022 as Chamber of Commerce Week in Arkansas • October 19, 2022 was National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day

The chamber celebrated with a social media campaign helping our followers learn more about what we do.

Why it matters: Local chambers distinguish themselves through their promotion of local communities and projects. By fostering job creation, improving education, and developing infrastructure, these organizations have laid the foundation for many communities, contributing to a better future.

by the numbers: While there were around 40 local chambers of commerce in the United States in the early 1900’s, today that number has surpassed 7,000 — each of them working toward promoting and supporting local business initiatives and addressing the needs of the changing market.

promoting our mission-work: The Chamber’s “Mission 5” key focus areas are: Government Affairs & Advocacy, Community Development, Economic Development, Small Business & Entrepreneurial Development, and Destination Marketing & Management. We are working hard every day to be the Voice of Business and Keeper of the Community Vision to create a cohesive and connected place where people want to live, work, invest and play.

best of the best: Only 200 Chambers are accredited by the U.S. Chamber and only 136 are rated as 5-star. Earlier this year, the Chamber announced that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has once again recognized our Chamber as one of its 5-star accredited chambers.

By earning Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a chamber shows its dedication to: • Reviewing, improving, and promoting strong business practices • Recognizing leadership and outstanding contributions to the community • Supporting the principles of free enterprise and promoting pro-growth policies at federal, state, and local levels • Establishing best practices and staying in-step with industry changes

Serving business and community together: Accreditation with the United States Chamber of Commerce is the only program of its kind that defines excellence in chamber planning and recognizes chambers for outstanding contributions toward positive change in their communities. There are over 900 chambers that have participated in the program since 1964.

meet your chamber staff: watch this Instagram Reel!

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Thursday, November 10 from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm

November Art on the Bricks Features Work of Military Veterans why we do it: The Chamber’s Art on the Bricks Art Walk showcases art from regional artists while enhancing the artistic and cultural opportunities in Downtown Rogers. The program is one way we promote downtown as a destination location for nightlife, dining, shopping, and art experiences.

Honoring Veterans Day: The Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (VA) is partnering with the Art on the Bricks Art Walk in November to feature the art of U.S. Military Veterans. The Rogers Experimental House, located at 121 W. Walnut St. in Rogers, will showcase the creative works of veterans and other artists during the 2nd Thursday art walk from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Thursday, November 10.

Show your support for our Veterans: A variety of art and crafts will be on exhibit to commemorate the service and talent of military veterans. A reception will be provided. Also participating in the art walk are Veteran musicians. Soldiers Songs and Voices Northwest Arkansas will perform from 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

dig deeper: Learn more at artonthebricks.com.

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Chamber Launches New Podcast Episode, Social Media Channels The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce a variety of new ways to keep up with our mission-work and programs.

Chamber Voice of Business Podcast Ep. 74: In this episode, SVP of Economic Development Steve Cox visited with Ryan Hale, Founder/CEO of Laneshift. They discussed Laneshift’s work developing communities by encouraging cycling and building connectivity between cities.

Hustle In Heels now on LinkedIn: Hustle in Heels - Ladies Lead NWA is an initiative of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce dedicated to empowering, educating, and connecting women with a modern approach to professional and business development. You can now follow them on LinkedIn!

Government Affairs Division now on Instagram and LinkedIn: The Chamber’s Government Affairs Division serves as the regional link between business and government to ensure that the Voice of Business is represented. Follow their work on Instagram and LinkedIn! w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | NOVEMBER2022

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Enhancing Workforce Growth in Northwest Arkansas Workforce development is a key focus area of the Chamber’s Economic Development mission-work.

One way the Chamber helps create talent pipelines in our community is through the Kindergarten to Job or K2J Connect program. K2J Connect brings together educators and students with industries to showcase local in-demand jobs and career pathways, many of which do not require college degrees.

Engaging our large industry council: Along with its K2J Connect program, the Chamber brings educators, business leaders and the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce together in the Large Industry Council to brainstorm ways to support our workforce talent pipeline.

Chamber goes EAST: SVP of Economic

Development Steve Cox recently visited with students Teaching students about in-demand careers: from Arkansas Arts Academy as part of the school’s The Chamber recently partnered with Atrium Hospitality EAST program, teaching them about the work the and the Embassy Suites in Rogers to bring together 100 Chamber does to make our region a great place to live, middle and high school students from Rogers schools work and play. discussing hospitality careers for this K2J Connect event. The Chamber’s Economic Development and Visit • The EAST Initiative provides learners the opportunity Rogers division educated students on in-demand career to have relevant, individualized, life-changing pathways and the variety of careers available in the educational experiences. hospitality sector.

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• EAST supplies students with the latest in sophisticated hardware and software technology and challenges them in identifying and solving problems and improving the communities in which they live.

• Students engage with community partners and master the tools of tomorrow’s tech-driven workforce, all while pursuing their own interests as they develop and complete service projects.

Recruiting tech startups: The Chamber also recently partnered with Startup Junkie to speak with members of the Fuel Accelerator program about opening or relocating to our region. Program participants from around the world learned about current and future growth of the region and why it’s a good place to start and grow their businesses.

Community on the rise: The most recent sales tax and jobs data for the City of Rogers reveal a sharp increase. September sales tax collections show a 13.2% increase over 2021. The most recent employment data from the Department of Workforce Services reveals Rogers has created over 1,500 jobs since January and labor force growth over 1,600. This results in a 2.6% unemployment rate, which is well below the state and national averages.

WHY it matters: Job growth equates to more money being spent in the community. That money then generates local sales tax. This funds things like city infrastructure, public safety, and quality of life amenities.

As we continue to grow both jobs and sales tax, our local economy grows and provides more funding for much needed local resources.

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Have questions about

Workforce Development?

What about

Labor Shortages?

We’ve got answers!

Fecha l Jueves, 17 de Noviembre de 2022

6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Ubicación l Cámara de Comercio del área de Rogers-Lowell 317 W. Walnut St., Rogers Tema l Cómo Comenzar un Negocio en Arkansas - Parte 4: “Gerencia, Operaciones y Recursos Humanos”

December 5, 2022 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Supply Chain Hall of Fame 5111 W. J.B. Hunt Dr. | Rogers

The 4th Quarter Spotlight Series will help answer these questions and more. This event will be a panel discussion featuring Dr. Jeff Perry (Superintendent of Rogers Public Schools), Dr. Dennis Rittle (President of Northwest Arkansas Community College), and Dr. Joe Rollins (Director of Workforce Development for the NWA Council) moderated by Kyle Kellams (News Director with KUAF and creator of Ozarks at Large) discussing workforce development efforts across the region.

Learn more and purchase tickets at

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La Cámara de Comercio del Área de Rogers-Lowell presenta "Cómo Comenzar un Negocio en Arkansas" (presentado en español). Este seminario básico analiza los pasos de inicio esenciales, las estructuras comerciales legales, las regulaciones y las licencias, los problemas clave que afectan el éxito de su negocio y las dificultades comunes que enfrentan los empresarios. ¡Una gran oportunidad para todos los empresarios de desean abrir o expand ir su negocio!

Presenting Sponsors

Visite www.RogersLowell.com para obtener más información

Focus on Community is a monthly feature sharing news and information about the businesses and people who make the Rogers-Lowell Area a great place to live, work, play and invest.

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CBI Northwest Arkansas Offers Important Advice on Preparing to Sell Your Business why it matters: Many business owners may not realize the benefits of preparing to sell before they commit to selling their business.

boost your value: If you have ever decided to sell your home, you want your home to look its best and hopefully better than others on the market. So, you make improvements and add value to your property in hopes of getting the best price per square foot. In the same way, if you are planning to sell your business, you should work intentionally to boost what your business is worth.

Do your homework: You need to learn what the valuation range of your business is or could be.

This requires knowing earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA). There are also “comparables” for companies like yours on a national level. Each comp value is expressed as a multiple of your financial measure, such as five times EBITDA. By looking

Dig deeper: CBI Northwest Arkansas can help guide you through the process to put more money on your bottom line when you do sell.

Contact info: cbiteam.com (479) 770-8989 2591 S. 48th Street, Springdale

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Eagle Watch Cruises Begin at Hobbs State Park the bald eagle has been the national emblem of the United States since 1782 and a spiritual symbol for native people for far longer than that. It sits on top of the food chain and can claim to be one of only two eagle species native to North America. This raptor (which means to seize by force) can fly up to 10,000 feet in the air.

eagle watch cruises Hobbs State Park eagle cruise tours are fun, educational, and can be downright exciting when eagles swoop down close to the boat or are having a spat with a pair of red-tailed hawks in a tree right next to you. These tours are offered November through February. Eagles can be seen any of these months on Beaver Lake, and the knowledgeable interpreter accompanying you on the cruise will answer all your eagle questions.

November and December Hobbs eagle cruise dates: November: 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 December: 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | NOVEMBER2022

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loloft announces grand opening in downtown rogers loloft, a new concept marrying flexible microwarehousing and office co-working space, has announced the grand opening date of its flagship location in downtown Rogers – November 30.

solving problems: Loloft solves a problem for small and growth-stage companies that need physical space to store or handle products by combining shared office space with private micro-warehouse units ranging in size from 150 square feet to 5,000 square feet under one climate-controlled roof. Loloft combines free purpose-built solutions such as shipping receipt and unloading services, loading dock access and daily carrier services with the traditional co-working amenities of high-speed WiFi, meeting rooms, phone booths, community engagement and flexible terms starting at three months.

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focus on small business: The company helps smaller businesses to compete online by providing access to world-class warehouse facilities, architecturally designed office spaces, and logistics technology normally only accessible to large corporations. Members include small e-commerce companies moving out of their garages, startups working on hardware projects, Walmart vendors, and national brands wanting flexible micro-warehousing solutions within proximity of retail stores.

learn more with startup junkie: Startup Junkie will celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week by featuring Loloft as part of November’s Startup Stories.

Hear from cofounder Brendan Howell on his journey through entrepreneurship and how the idea for a micro-warehouse and office coworking space came to be. Learn more here.

Preformed line products to complete rogers expansion Business expansion: Preformed Line Products Co. (PLP) is once again expanding its Rogers operations.

New job creation and space: The company will complete its $16 million expansion in December, adding 82,000 sq. ft. to the Rogers facility and up to 50 new jobs. The expansion will increase PLP’s manufacturing capacity and provide additional warehouse space.

Dig deeper: Read more at talkbusiness.net.

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Yeyo’s Named Top 50 Restaurant in America the new york times recently ranked their top 50 restaurants in America for 2022, and Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico was selected!

Congratulations in order: Rafael Rios is founder and executive chef of Yeyo’s, the third business in the group of Rios Family-owned restaurants. The business started as a local farm when his father, Don Yeyo, started growing tomatoes, cilantro, carrots, and peppers in 2012. The farm quickly became a mission to change the perception of Mexican food with a farm-to-table approach while sourcing from local farmers and creating a space where guests can share art, history, meet new people, and be inspired to create.

Giving back to the community: The Rios family is making a difference by integrating into the community and hospitality industry in Northwest Arkansas. As a veteran-owned business, The Rios family wanted a connection with the community that is deeper than collaborations with local farmers and businesses. “Yeyo’s Gives Back” is focused on giving back to art and music programs, veteran affairs, mental health, and food insecurity. They honor these programs because it is a part of the community that they identify with the most.

dig deeper: Read more about Yeyo’s at VisitRogersArkansas.com.

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Downtown Hosts Fun Oktoberfest Craft Beer Festival Polka music and lederhosen were plentiful at the Butterfield Stage on Saturday, October 15 as the 7th annual Downtown Rogers Oktoberfest event took center stage. Meteorologist Darby Bybee of KHBS 40/29 News was the emcee for the event, co-hosted by Rotary Club of Downtown Rogers and the Optimist Club of Rogers.

The place for craft beers: The festivities included 19 craft breweries from Northwest Arkansas, Central Arkansas and Southwest Missouri as well as two local distributors.

Tapping the Firkin: Natural State Beer Company provided the official firkin—a small cask of specially-brewed beer—for Mayor Greg Hines to tap during the opening ceremony. Attendees also had the opportunity to purchase traditional German fare including bratwursts, schnitzels, and pretzels. Entertainment included music by Polka Polka and competitions for the best lederhosen, best dirndl and the traditional stein-hoist contest for women and men.

Why it matters: The two civic clubs joined forces this year to coordinate the beer festival and will share the proceeds to support their community club service projects and programs.

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Bikes, Blues & BBQ Completes Inaugural Event in Rogers Bikes, Blues & BBQ has attracted motorcycle enthusiasts to Northwest Arkansas for more than two decades, bringing thousands of bikers to the area one weekend every fall.

Background: After making Fayetteville the home base for the rally for 20 years, the organization moved operations for the first time to Rogers. Event activities included motorcycle exhibits, live music, food, vendors and more from October 5 – 8, 2022.

June to assist businesses in finding ways to maximize the opportunity through marketing ideas. Participants learned real-world tips and ideas to grow their business revenue, invigorate their customer base, and increase their community presence.

How it Happened: Uptown Rogers hosted vendors at

The Rogers Convention Center, a car show at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade, and a beer garden at the Walmart AMP. Downtown Rogers activities centered around the Butterfield Stage where live music was headquartered Rally With a Purpose: Bikes, Blues and BBQ started along with several vendors selling apparel, food, and in 2002 and is a nonprofit event that benefits women, beverages. The Rotary Club of Downtown Rogers children and the under-served members of the Northwest organized the annual Frisco Inferno BBQ competition.

Arkansas community. Since its inception, the rally has given out more than $3 million to local nonprofits and is Hog Town: Arkansas Public Theatre hosted two the world’s largest charity motorcycle rally. screenings of a locally produced documentary titled “Hog Town.” The 62-minute film created over four years Serving Business and Community Together: explored the growth of the rally over time and its impact The Bikes Blues & BBQ team worked with the City of on the area. Filmmaker Raelyn Munneke and her family Rogers, Chamber, and area businesses leaders to welcome came to Fayetteville to visit ahead before moving to the family friendly rally that has attracted upwards of the area. In 2017 she began filming interviews with 300,000 riders prior to the pandemic. Leading up to the businesses, bikers, and community leaders, learning what event, the Chamber offered two workshops in May and the rally was all about and the impact it had.

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Visit Rogers Honored with ConventionSouth Annual Readers’ Choice Award What happened:

The publishers and editors of ConventionSouth, the national multimedia resource for planning events in the South, presented Visit Rogers, a division of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, with a 2022 Readers’ Choice Award in October.

Why it matters: This prestigious recognition comes from the United States’ top meeting professionals who hold events in the south. These planners demand the highest level of customer service and quality facilities. The honor recognizes that Visit Rogers displays the commitment to professionalism, creativity and service required for industry success.

This is the fourth time that Visit Rogers has received the award.

Follow Visit Rogers on Social Media: 28

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Connecting Job Seekers with Employers what happened: The 2022 Northwest Arkansas Fall Job Fair on October 5 was hosted by the Chamber at the Frisco Station Mall in Rogers. This year’s fall event attracted 90 employers and hundreds of job seekers.

why it matters: Our Chamber’s Economic Development mission-work spurs economic growth as a key driver for increasing the sales tax base. Our work develops talent pipelines for current and future workforce needs by connecting educators to industries. Events like the job fair offer resources and support to help sustain business growth by connecting job seekers with employers.

The Chamber’s annual job fairs are free and open to job seekers who are encouraged to bring their resumes to hand out to prospective employers exhibiting at the fair. At these annual job fairs, job seekers meet one-on-one with local Human Resource professionals and representatives from local organizations about career opportunities.

Track record of success: These job fairs are the largest and longest-running job fairs in Arkansas. The fall event is known for helping employers get a head start on hiring needs for the holidays and upcoming year.

special Thanks to our sponsors:

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Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Find a Member For more information about these member businesses including addresses and phone numbers, consult the RogersLowell.com Online Business Directory.

Please call ahead to confirm holiday openings and hours.

List of members open: Need a place eat on Thanksgiving?

We have compiled a list of our members to make it easy. Be sure to contact them in advance to confirm hours of opening.

Applebee’s Cracker Barrel Denny’s Grub’s Bar & Grille Olive Garden Popeyes Ruth’s Chris Steak House Slim Chickens Starbucks Taqueria Real Jacona Tortilleria La Popular Village Inn Waffle House Whataburger Workman’s Travel Center

Extend your stay in Rogers: In town for a few days around Thanksgiving? Check out our full list of restaurants in Rogers. Our calendar will update you on the events happening around Rogers and Northwest Arkansas and our “Things To Do” page will help you plan a fun-filled itinerary during your Thanksgiving stay in Rogers.

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Purchase Your Advertising in The Good Life Destination Guide Space Now Available for the 2023-2024 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.

Learn More and Download An Advertising Contract Today!

All Advertising Contracts and materials are due January 31, 2023. w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | NOVEMBER2022

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NEW MEMBERS & RIBBON CUTTINGS | September 2022 5KEYS FINANCIAL COACHING

#1 Halsted Cir. | Rogers, AR 72756 (479) 313-5731 | 5keysfinancial.com Organizations

ALCHEMY EVENT RENTALS

141 Kelley Drive | Rogers, AR 72712 (479) 877-7575 | alchemy-event-rentals.com Rentals - Party Supplies, Equipment

ASIAN FRESH SUPERMARKET

203 N. Bloomington St. | Lowell, AR 72745 (479) 334-7311 | www.asianfreshsupermarket.com Grocery Stores

BENTONVILLE TACO AND TAMALE CO.

101 W. Central Ave. | Bentonville, AR 72712 (479) 448-4480 | www.bentonvilletaco.com Restaurants - Mexican

CACHE CREATIVE ARKANSAS COMMUNITY HUB & EXCHANGE

4100 Corporate Center Drive, Ste. 205 | Springdale, AR 72762 cachecreate.org Organizations

CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY

5100 JB Hunt Dr., Ste. 100 | Rogers, AR 72758 (479) 271-1759 | www.campbellssoup.com Food Products, Services, Supplies & Brokers

CHATEAU ON THE LAKE RESORT SPA & CONVENTION CENTER

415 N. State Highway 265 | Branson, MO 65616 877-243-1710 | www.chateauonthelakebranson.COM Hotels/Motels

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT ROGERS

4201 W. Green Acres Rd. | Rogers, AR 72758 (479) 278-2601 | www.marriott.com Hotels/Motels

ELITE REALTY

1800 Wagon Wheel Rd., Ste. A | Springdale, AR 72762 (479) 530-1727 | www.eliterealtyar.com Real Estate - Commercial and Residential

GOLDEN CORRAL - FAYETTEVILLE

4507 N. College Ave. | Fayetteville, AR 72703 (479) 443-0433 | www.goldencorral.com Restaurants - Fast Food

HI TECH ENTERPRISES

Rogers, AR 72756 (479) 925-3314 | hitechnwa.com Window Cleaning

HOME VIDEO STUDIO - LOWELL

200 S. Bloomington Street | Lowell, AR 72745 (479) 458-7180 | lowell.homevideostudio.com/1537 Video Production

KATI WELLS CBT

1803 Phyllis St., Ste. 105 | Bentonville, AR 72712 (479) 335-6482 | katiwellscbt.com Mental Health Services

LOCAL TIRE & WHEEL, LLC

2212 S. 8th St. | Rogers, AR 72756 (479) 903-7676 | www.localtireandwheel.com Tire Dealers

LOVING CHOICES PREGNANCY CENTER

1117 W. Poplar St. | Rogers, AR 72756 (479) 631-6677 | www.lovingchoices.org Organizations

MUSIC EDUCATION INITIATIVE

Rogers, AR 72758 (501) 838-5461 | musiceducationinitiative.org Organizations

ON POINT CLEANING COMPANY

Lowell, AR 72745 (479) 235-4445 | www.onpointcleaningco.com Cleaning Services

OZARK JUNIORS VOLLEYBALL CLUB

1515 Burr Oak | Fayetteville, AR 72704 (479) 200-4422 | www.ozarkjuniors.com Organizations

PARRISH-KELLEY HOMETOWN INSURANCE

60 E. Township St., Suite 1 | Fayetteville, AR 72703 (479) 595-8747 | pkhometownins.com Insurance

UNITED BANK - BENTONVILLE (OPENING SOON)

2411 SW 14th St., Suite 9 | Bentonville, AR 72712 www.united-bk.com Banks and Banking Associations

WILKERSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Rogers, AR 72756 (417) 848-1396 | wilkerson-photography.com Photographers & Studios

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September 2022

BANCO SÍ

114 S. 1ST ST., ROGERS

HOLLAND HEALTH: A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINIC 212 W. MONROE AVE., STE. A, LOWELL

Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

COMPARION INSURANCE AGENCY, A LIBERTY MUTUAL COMPANY

4307 S. PLEASANT CROSSING BLVD., STE. 103, ROGERS

LOVING CHOICES PREGNANCY CENTER

NEXT LEVEL TRAINING SOLUTIONS GROUP

400 W CAPITOL AVE., STE. 1700, LITTLE ROCK

1117 W. POPLAR ST., ROGERS

EXO DENTAL

P.O. BOX 7704, SPRINGDALE

ONEDIGITAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS 901 NORTH 47TH ST., STE. 102, ROGERS

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MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | September 2022 30+ YEARS Sherwin-Williams Company - 64 years Central United Methodist Church - 60 years Hight Jackson Associates, P.A. - 48 years Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield - 39 years War Eagle Fair - 37 years Northwest Technical Institute - NWTI - 33 years CJRW - 32 years

21-30 YEARS Blakeman’s Fine Jewelry Candlewood Suites Hotel CK Harp & Associates Dale Carnegie Training of the Midsouth (Howard, Mohorn, & Assoc.)

First Baptist Church of Lowell Hudson & Associates, Inc. Kelley Law Firm Lifeline of Northwest Arkansas Stafford & Westervelt, Chartered Technical Laser Service Transplace, an Uber Freight Company United Way of Northwest Arkansas Waco Title Company

11-20 YEARS Alzheimer’s Association Bella Vista Property Owners Association CitiScapes Metro Monthly Magazine Community Development Corporation/Havenwood Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus, P.C. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Daylight Donuts Devereux Management Company Dunk Fire & Security, Inc.

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Einstein Bros. Bagels Engineering Services, Inc. EOA of Washington County/EOA Children’s House Faithful Friends Animal Clinic FORVIS Green Acres Assisted Living, Inc. Information Solutions Team, LLC King Burrito & Taqueria Malco Pinnacle Cinema Pinnacle Media LLC / Univision Sam’s Club #4969 Staples Teen Action and Support Center Vanguard Cleaning Systems of the Ozarks Waste Management of Northwest Arkansas Wheeler Metals, Inc.

Edward Jones - Stephanie Hogan Hachem Investments/SLH High Street Real Estate Development, LLC JP&O Prosthetic & Orthotic Laboratory Life Strategies Counseling Inc. Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom One Communications “One Comm” Periodontal and Implant Solutions of Arkansas Pittman’s Professional Landscaping & Tree Trimming ProSource NW Arkansas Rotary Downtown Rogers Smith Hurst, PLC Smitty’s Garage Burgers & Fries TopNotch Real Estate Co. Verdant Studio Xtreme Exteriors

6-10 YEARS

1 YEAR

Advance Pest Control, Inc. avad3 Event Production Bumbles & Boots Custom Creations, LLC DW2 Video Productions HCJ CPAs & Advisors NWA Wedding Ideas Directory Patterson Home Builders, Inc. Soapbox Influence Spectrum Brands T. Michael’s Salon & Spa

AMC Mortgage AMERECON Inc. Security Best Friends Animal Society Eat My Catfish Heroncrest Jan-Pro of NWA Ozark Adaptive Sports Association T-Mobile

2-5 YEARS 3C Retail Solutions The Agency NWA - Paul Livingston Arby’s C & D Floor Covering and Renovations LLC Caddell Construction Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners

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.

NOV

Every Wednesday

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Presented By | Equity Business Solutions November Host Sponsor | Tailored Living Location | Golden Corral Address | 2605 W Pleasant Crossing Dr., Rogers If you are looking to connect to businesses in Northwest Arkansas, come and join us for coffee, breakfast snacks and great connections.

NOV

NOV

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Presented By | SERVPRO Hosted By | Whataburger Address | 4335 S. Pleasant Crossing Blvd., Rogers, AR 72758 Set your alarm early, and join us for Coffee Connection, an awesome morning business-building networking event!

NOV

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Location | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Address | 317 W. Walnut St., Rogers 72756 Are you a new member, an existing member who wants a refresher on member benefits, a recently hired employee who needs to learn about the Chamber, or considering joining the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce? Then, Chamber Tutorial is for you.

Co-Sponsors | Ritter Communications & BHC Insurance Hosted By | Primrose Retirement Communities Address | 650 S Dodson Rd., Rogers, AR 72758 Mix and mingle with other Northwest Arkansas business professionals and find out what other businesses have to offer. It’s a great way to make new contacts, generate business leads and find new vendors.

NOV Luncheon - Topic: “Empowered Customer Service”

Empowerment Sponsor | Northwest Health Location | Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield NWA Address | 5288 W Don Tyson Pkwy. Springdale, AR 72762 This is an initiative of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce dedicated to empowering, educating, and connecting women with a modern approach to professional and business development.

NOV

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Presented By | T-Mobile Location | Downtown Rogers Businesses Art on the Bricks Art Walk showcases the art of regional artists while enhancing the artistic and cultural opportunities in Downtown Rogers.

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Presented By | First Security Bank & Focus Commercial Real Estate Location | Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Address | 317 W. Walnut St., Rogers 72756 The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce presents “Starting a Business in Arkansas” (Spanish language presentation).

NOV

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Empowerment Sponsor | Northwest Health Location | Ozark Axe House Address | 718 N. 2nd St., Ste. 102 Rogers, AR 72756 Hustle In Heels invites you to celebrate our 5th anniversary by throwing some axes at Ozark Axe House. This networking event is a celebration of the 2022 Hustle In Heels programs and the 5th anniversary of Hustle In Heels. w w w.Roger sL owell.c om | NOVEMBER2022

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