March 2016: 2016 Business Plan - Rogers
Transcription
March 2016: 2016 Business Plan - Rogers
The Chamber is celebrating its 94th year as the premier advocacy organization for business in the Rogers-Lowell Area. Since 1922, we have worked to promote a healthy and vibrant economy while protecting and advancing the interests of our members and the community as a whole. We are the Voice of Business. In 2016, we pledge to continue working to build business through job creation and expansion, while also protecting business and representing our members’ interests at the local, state and federal levels. We’ll offer members hundreds of business-building events and educational programs throughout the year. We’ll continue to solve critical issues by working regionally. Take some time to learn more about your Chamber’s specific programs and goals for 2016 in this Business Plan issue of the Chamber Voice. Together, let’s build upon our successes from 2015 and continue to make the Rogers-Lowell Area a great place to live, work and play. Page 2 Page Events and Meetings Page 3 Page Economic Development Page 4 9 Page Government Affairs Page 6 8 Membership Services 13 Page Visit Rogers 10 Small Business Corner | Small Business StartUp Summit Page 25th Annual Bradford Marine & ATV Buddy Bass Tournament; NWA Spring Job Fair; 2016 Spring Golf Tournament 11 12 Page Marketing Communications Page Economic Development Continued Page 5 7 Page Community Development 14 Welcome New Members | December 2015 & January 2016 Ribbon Cuttings | December 2015 & January 2016 Membership Renewals | December 2015 & January 2016 Page 15 Chamber Networking & Educational Events RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 1 business-building events designed for you EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman of the Board – Nick Hobbs, JB Hunt Chairman-Elect – David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade Treasurer – Eric Pianalto– Mercy NWA Past Chairman – Mike Watts, FM Corporation President/CEO – Raymond Burns RIDC President – Jerry Vest, Regions Bank 2016 DIRECTORS Greg Fogle, Nabholz Construction David Hale, Digital Printing Solutions Rick McWhirt, Bekaert Corporation Jeff Ratcliff, Big Heart Pet Brands Cameron Smith, Cameron Smith & Associates Angie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker Furniture & Appliance 2017 DIRECTORS Tabi Lipscomb, Arvest Benton County Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Real Estate Mauricio Herrera, Legal Center of NWA J.D. Davis, AMP Sign & Banner Frank Bailey, Bailey & Oliver Law Firm 2018 DIRECTORS Jon Harrell, First Bank of Arkansas Keri Earwood, Shelter Insurance Jeff Milford, AEP/SWEPCO Tina Winham, NUK – USA Dennis Ferguson, Simmons Bank David Roth, WorkMatters EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS Jeremy Barclay - Northwest Health System Jerry Carmichael - TY North America - LLC Mike Clawson - Del Monte Foods - Inc. Bob Clinard - Benton County Judge Dr. Janie Darr - Rogers Public Schools Rich Davis - SourceGas Arkansas Inc. Mike Dodge - Carroll Electric Coop. Corp. Sandy Edwards - Crystal Bridges Museum Dan Hendrix - Arkansas World Trade Center Greg Hines - Mayor - City of Rogers Chris Johnson - Cabela’s Dr. Evelynn Jorgenson - NWACC President Peter Lane - Walton Arts Center David Lang - Embassy Suites NWA Eldon Long - Mayor - City of Lowell Charles Nevin - Advantage Sales & Marketing Dawn Spragg - CUMC Thom Stathakis - Everett Buick GMC Chris Sultemeier - Walmart Dick Trammel - Arkansas Highway Commission Mike Williams - NWA Emerging Leaders (WorkMatters) 3.2 Sunrise Seminar Series | “Healthcare Reform Update for Small Employers” 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce AUDIT COMMITTEE David Hale Frank Bailey Jon Harrell 3.3 Small Business Council Meeting 8:30 a.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 3.9 Rogers Advertising & Promotion Commission 4:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 3.8 Coffee Connection 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Hosted by The Razorback Foundation, Inc. at Professional Business Systems-PBS in Bentonville 3.9 First Leadership Personal Finance Session 4:00 p.m – 7:30 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 3.16 Member Orientation 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 3.11 Large Industry Council Meeting 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 3.17 Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Promenade Apartments at Pinnacle Hills 3.16 First Leadership Steering Committee 4:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. Rogers New Technology High School 3.29 Chamber University - Small Business Start-Up Summit 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 3.17 Board of Directors Meeting 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce For information on other upcoming events visit the complete calendar online at RogersLowell.com View complete calendar at RogersLowell.com DIVISION CHAIRS Community Development - Tina Winham Membership Services - Keri Earwood Economic Development - Jeff Milford Government Affairs - Jerry Carmichael Convention & Visitors Bureau - David Lang upcoming meetings Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 P: (479) 636-1240 F: (479) 636-5485 3.17 Ambassadors Monthly Meeting 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce For information on other meetings including the Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders and Leadership Benton County go to the complete calendar online at RogersLowell.com Paid for through Periodical “Chamber Voice” (USPS 492950) is published monthly in January, February, March, May, June, July, August, September, October November and December; (semi-monthly in April) by the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc., 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756. Periodical postage paid at Rogers, AR. POSTMASTER send address changes to: ROGERS-LOWELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER, 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756. staff Raymond Burns, CCE President/CEO [email protected] Brad Phillips Vice President of Marketing Communications [email protected] Amy Gober Director of Community Development [email protected] Katie Wright Assistant to the President [email protected] J.R. Shaw Executive Director/Senior Vice President | Visit Rogers [email protected] Jon Moran Vice President of Government Affairs [email protected] Jacque Eakins Account Executive [email protected] Ashley Matsumura Information Specialist [email protected] Shelle Summers, IOM Senior Vice President of Membership Services [email protected] Judy Diffee Finance Manager [email protected] Marni Rogers Member Relations Manager [email protected] Amanda Mills Information Specialist [email protected] Steve Cox Senior Vice President of Economic Development [email protected] Nick Smith Creative Services Manager [email protected] Erin Jernigan Convention Sales Manager | Visit Rogers [email protected] Vickie Grotts Vice President of Accounting & Finance [email protected] Brooklynn Wiley Director of Special Events [email protected] Kelly Parker Sports & Tourism Marketing Manager | Visit Rogers [email protected] 2 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016 ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT | 2016 Business Plan HOW WILL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IMPACT YOU? N ew job creation and business expansion impact businesses by creating meaningful opportunities for Chamber members to sell their goods and services to new businesses and residents. The Economic Development Division will work with industries both large and small in our community to increase job growth and business expansion as well as with individuals to increase our growing small business community. CREATE ECONOMIC INVESTMENT AND JOBS BY USING A PROACTIVE MARKETING APPROACH TO ATTRACT NEW BUSINESSES, BOTH LARGE AND SMALL. OBJECTIVE: Staff will identify and create a priority list of target industries and retail stores for business recruitment with a result of 15 new businesses opening in the Rogers-Lowell area in 2016. Staff will develop and distribute 150 relocation packets to be used to attract relocating businesses to the area. Marketing materials in packets will include: The Good Life relocation / visitors guide, DVDs, community profiles, maps, business directories and website information. Staff will partner and assist the NWA Council by being the point of contact for industry recruiting in hopes of attracting new large industries to the Rogers-Lowell area in 2016, which will create at least 500 new jobs. Staff will respond to 15 requests for information from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) as the point of contact for the community and region for new industry recruitment. A database of available industrial, commercial office and retail property for sale and lease in the Rogers-Lowell Area will be reviewed and updated 12 times a year. OBJECTIVE: PROACTIVELY PROMOTE EXPANSION AND RETENTION OF LOCAL BUSINESSES AND INDUSTRY. Staff will conduct at least 200 Business Retention and Expansion Surveys (BREs) with both non-minority and minority-owned businesses in cooperation with the NWA Council. The surveys will be conducted on a bi-annual basis and will help the Chamber and NWA Council learn about industry needs and potential expansions and relocations. Staff will use and maintain current databases and software to track BRE survey results in an effort to proactively help meet the needs of large industries in the area. Staff will assist businesses seeking to expand workforce and infrastructure within Rogers-Lowell. SUPPORT OR LEAD THE PROCESS TO IDENTIFY REGIONAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES TO ADVANCE THE REGION’S COMPETITIVENESS FOR JOBS, WORKERS AND CAPITAL INVESTMENT. OBJECTIVE: Partner with the NWA Council to implement the regional marketing plan to recruit world-class businesses and workforce to Northwest Arkansas. Work with the NWA Council to research and discover three (3) potential regional attractions and amenities that will enhance the quality of life in Northwest Arkansas. Partner with area colleges and universities, along with the NWA Council, to provide 20 local industries with needed workforce training identified through the Business Retention and Expansion Surveys (BREs). Assist the regional education task force of the NWA Council to increase the college graduate and degree completion rates in Rogers-Lowell by helping to create and implement programs designed to help increase the number of degreeholders in the area. Promote regional health care as part of the NWA Council’s strategic plan by identifying the number of specialists, hospital beds, clinics and other services for all health care facilities in the region. This information will be published on the Chamber’s website and in The Good Life relocation / visitors guide. Partner with the NWA Council, Innovate Arkansas and the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC) to establish a small business accelerator for local businesses using an existing vacant building in Rogers-Lowell. Staff will attend trade shows / site selector events for the purpose of business recruitment by marketing Northwest Arkansas as a premier business destination. EXPAND SERVICES AND RETAIL AMENITIES TO HELP ATTRACT A DIVERSE, FIRST-CLASS WORKFORCE. OBJECTIVE: Identify target retail amenities for business recruitment with the goal of 12 new retail and / or restaurants opening in Rogers-Lowell in 2016. Staff will develop and distribute 360 marketing and informational packets to be used for workforce recruitment. Marketing materials in packets will include: The Good Life relocation / visitors guide, DVDs, community profiles, maps, business directories and website information. OBJECTIVE: ADDRESS EMPLOYER AND JOBSEEKER NEEDS THROUGH INNOVATIVE WEB TOOLS AND OTHER RECRUITMENT MARKETING. Increase the number of visits to the online job bank found on RogersLowell.com by improv- ing accessibility and ease of use. The job bank’s new user-friendly interface makes it easier for potential employees to apply for jobs and for employers to post open positions. Market the online Job Bank to employers and jobseekers by writing and publishing four (4) articles about the job bank in Chamber publications in 2016. Create and maintain an online resume bank that allows job seekers to post resumes for review and employers to search the resume bank to fill positions. The Chamber’s goal is to receive at least 75 resumes each year to post on the website. OBJECTIVE: RECRUIT AND RETAIN A HIGH-QUALITY WORKFORCE. Partner with the Rogers Public Schools and local industries to host Kindergarten-to-Job (K2J) events throughout the year. Events will include facility tours and guided discussions between large industries and local educators. Participate in at least one (1) college fair and one (1) internship event to market the RogersLowell area as an ideal place to live and work. Create 500 marketing pieces to be distributed to recent and future college graduates in an effort to retain and recruit college graduates in Northwest Arkansas. Plan, coordinate and host two (2) job fairs featuring 100 or more exhibitors and 1,000 jobseekers between the two events, which will help businesses find candidates locally in a costeffective way. These events will also help local job-seekers learn about available job positions throughout Northwest Arkansas. OBJECTIVE: ENGAGE IN SMALL BUSINESS OUTREACH. Staff will utilize the online Small Business Toolkit by researching and compiling up-to-date materials on starting, running and growing a business in Rogers-Lowell. Materials will be available in English and Spanish. At least 300 individuals seeking resources on starting a small business will be assisted by Chamber staff and when necessary referred to the Small Business Resource Center at the Chamber where relevant, up-to-date publications and materials, in both English and Spanish, will be kept. Staff will create and publish 150 Doing Business in Rogers-Lowell guides in both English and Spanish in 2016. The guide will be continuously updated with changing laws and regulations pertaining to businesses. Chamber staff will refer 300 entrepreneurs needing specific and focused advice to strategic partners that can help them become successful business owners. Increase the Chamber’s impact on the small business community in the Rogers-Lowell area by RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 3 ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT | continued creating a more diverse Small Business Council with at least 12 active members. Twelve Council meetings will be held. Identify and meet the needs of the business community by hosting 24 educational seminars to help strengthen member businesses. These seminars will be based on what topics have been identified as being of importance to members. Partner with Start-Up Junkies to host a Gone in 60 Seconds elevator pitch contest to showcase start-up businesses and connect them with potential investors. Host four (4) Large Industry Council meetings so that staff can identify the needs and wants of our large industry members. During these educational luncheons, topics relevant to current issues facing large industry members will be discussed. Members of the Small Business Council will host six (6) Member Orientations. Attendees will learn how to best utilize their Chamber membership to grow their business. Four (4) small business owners will be recognized for their hard work by being awarded “Outstanding Small Business of the Quarter”. These awards will help engage and encourage support of the small business community. Nominees will be eligible for the 2016 Small Business of the Year award given in 2017. Plan, coordinate and host Chamber University with a goal of 100 or more business men and women in total attendance. This program will provide attendees with networking opportunities and educational seminars. Partner with the SBA, SCORE and ASBTDC to provide educational seminars for 50 start-up and 50 young companies on the basic skills and resources needed to start a small business and successfully grow a business. OBJECTIVE: IMPLEMENT DOWNTOWN MASTER PLAN Chamber staff will work closely with building owners, developers, city staff, realtors, and business owners to further the designs and goals laid out in the Downtown Master Plan. The Chamber will form an advisory board for Downtown Rogers, Inc. to focus on the best overall strategies for implementing the Downtown Master Plan. Staff will serve as the first point of contact and liaison between potential business owners, developers, and building owners and the City of Rogers when plans concern Downtown Rogers. OBJECTIVE: ENGAGE IN MINORITY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT. Coordinate networking events for diverse members of the business community to help them become more comfortable in growing their business through networking. At least 100 minor- 4 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016 ity members of the business community will participate in these networking events throughout the year. Continue helping minority entrepreneurs through the Minority Business Mentorship Program where 12 minority business owners will have the opportunity to learn important lessons as well as receive professional advice from their experienced mentors. This will strengthen the minority business community and help businesses succeed by sharing knowledge, expertise and resources. Encourage minority business participation in the new NWA BizCon, which will help improve communication and inclusion within the minority business community. Staff will assist five (5) individuals interested in starting and completing the Minority Business Enterprise Certification (MBE) program. This program helps minority-owned businesses partner with larger businesses to gain access to resources previously not available to them. Coordinate the efforts of the Minority Business Task Force reaching out to minority-owned businesses. Minority-owned businesses will benefit from having an open venue to voice their concerns. In turn, the task force will make every effort to address these needs. Provide specialized assistance to 50 minority business owners by promoting available Chamber resources or referring them to strategic partners for advice on how to start or grow their business. Provide 120 minority business owners and entrepreneurs assistance with resources and information on starting and running a successful business in Northwest Arkansas. At least 50 minority business owners, leaders and employees will gain useful skills and knowledge through professional development and educational programs coordinated by the Chamber. MARINE &A FORD AD TV R B April 30, 2016 May 11, 2016 October 5, 2016 ENGAGE IN MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH. OBJECTIVE: Continue facilitating meetings between the Rogers Police Department and the minority community leadership. These meetings help both parties by bringing concerns to the table and working on a joint plan to bridge the gap of communication and cooperation within the community. Continue engaging minority leadership, organizations and media to create solutions for important issues affecting our community. Coordinate the minority leadership efforts at the Rogers Public Schools by developing a plan for minority student engagement and degree attainment. Champion diversity and inclusion initiatives with the school district and help other public services enhance their existing programs. November 1, 2016 GOVERNMENTAFFAIRS | 2016 Business Plan T HOW WILL GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS IMPACT YOU? he Government Affairs Division serves as the link between members and local, state and federal government by advocating for pro-business and quality-of-life issues that are important to Northwest Arkansas. Additionally, Government Affairs engages in activities that produce long-term positive impacts including voter registration and education, engagement of members in the political process and continuously improved outreach efforts. ENHANCE THE ROGERS-LOWELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S CAPACITY TO EFFECTIVELY INFLUENCE LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL LEGISLATION. OBJECTIVE: Respond to Legislators’ requests for assistance by providing staff support to the 3rd District Caucus, which will improve trust and strengthen ties with state legislators. Host three (3) legislative committee meetings in Northwest Arkansas, which allows the Chamber to highlight regional areas of need and build support among legislators from around the state. Continue to develop the Northwest Arkansas Political Action committee (NPAC) by raising $5,000 for the program. The political action committee can support well-qualified candidates during elections. Be a presence at the Capitol during the interim between legislative sessions by attending eight (8) interim committee meetings. This will help maintain the Chamber’s visibility with legislators and provide additional networking opportunities. Work with the Arkansas State Chamber, the Arkansas Economic Developers, and Chamber representatives from around the state in 2016 for the passage of SJR16. This will enhance the image of the Chamber statewide. source of information on political and government affairs issues. OBJECTIVE: HELP CHAMBER MEMBERS UNDERSTAND AND NAVIGATE THE GOVERNMENTAL PROCESS. Maximize the reach of the Chamber by utilizing social media to post or tweet at least 25 times each month about government-related issues, programs or events of importance to our members. Host eight (8) Government Affairs Committee meetings with an average attendance of 25 per meeting. These meetings provide an opportunity to discuss legislative issues in-depth and educate members on critical issues. AGGRESSIVELY ADVOCATE FOR PRO-BUSINESS PUBLIC POLICY AND ISSUES. OBJECTIVE: TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CHAMBER’S GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS DIVISION, VISIT ROGERSLOWELL.COM/ADVOCACY.HTML ESTABLISH REGIONALISM TO LEVERAGE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR COORDINATED MARKETING, MESSAGING AND ADVOCACY EFFORTS. OBJECTIVE: Strengthen Chamber alliances with Fort Smith, Little Rock and Northwest Arkansas by attending two (2) meetings each year with other metro chambers of commerce and the state chamber of commerce. This will help staff better understand legislative needs in their area and utilize their political influence to encourage passage of pro-business legislation. Work with other Northwest Arkansas chambers and the NWA Council to develop a regional legislative agenda. This regional plan will improve legislation and provide a benefit to the entire region. Develop media partnership with a multimedia outlet to position Chamber as a regional, emerging statewide advocate and Provide staff support to the NWA Emerging Leaders Political and Government Affairs Workgroup by assisting with one (1) voter registration effort and hosting a political candidate training breakfast series targeting young professionals. Providing an avenue for our emerging leaders to become involved in government affairs will help develop future candidates for public office and prepare the next generation of leaders for our region. Distribute 50 email updates in 2016 that contain information and updates on local, state and federal issues. Host Chamber Night receptions before the City of Rogers and City of Lowell “State of the City” addresses with 75 Chamber members and members of the public in attendance. This will provide an opportunity for members to introduce themselves to local officials, the realm of public service, and become more familiar with the issues facing each city. Host three (3) state legislative forums during the fiscal and special legislative sessions in 2016 with an average attendance of 50 people, which will allow the public to meet and ask questions of elected officials. Encourage the minority community to participate in the political process by conducting one (1) voter registration effort and two (2) educational forums targeting the minority community. Provide assistance to members by responding to requests for information and assistance on government-related issues. Assisting members in resolving legislative issues helps to strengthen the business community and economic environment in Northwest Arkansas. Maintain 75 percent attendance during each legislative session to enhance the respectability of the Chamber and improve influence on legislation. Draft and advocate for a regional legislative agenda, with at least 50 percent of agenda submitted as introduced legislation through 2017. Advocate at federal and state levels for legislation of importance to Chamber members by preparing at least four (4) statements of support and initiating two (2) calls to action to membership on legislative and public policy through 2017. Host four (4) meetings each year with staff of congressional representatives to strengthen ties with staff and improve influence and ability to relay policy positions to the region’s congressional representation. Create, maintain and promote a new release of the website with recognizable branding that will highlight Government Affairs, inform about regional issues of interest to members and educate about the political process. OBJECTIVE: PURSUE TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING. Provide support to the Regional Mobility Authority as needed and participate in all regional mobility meetings. Attend two (2) highway commission meetings as well as host the AHTD director and staff at one (1) event as a way to advocate for new funding from the highway department. Organize one (1) trip to Washington D.C. for a minimum of 10 Chamber members. These trips help educate federal delegation and federal agencies on Northwest Arkansas needs as well as assist in driving additional infrastructure dollars to the region. RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 5 MEMBERSHIPSERVICES | 2016 Business Plan T HOW WILL MEMBERSHIP SERVICES IMPACT YOU? he Membership Services Division provides over-the-top customer service for the membership of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce by providing valuable services and programming which delivers a return on their investment. Membership Services impacts the Chamber’s members by offering business building events and educational opportunities that support local businesses. OBJECTIVE: SUPPORT THE CHAMBER’S MISSION OF “GROWING BUSINESS, BUILDING COMMUNITY” THROUGH MEMBERSHIP SALES AND EVENT SPONSORSHIPS. Sell 350 new memberships in 2016 to support the Chamber’s goal of 2,200 members in 2016 by encouraging referrals from Chamber staff, members and volunteers. All staff will be responsible for recruiting new Chamber members. Contribute to the profitability of the Chamber by generating $610,000 in gross revenue (event sponsorships, advertising sales and fees) to support events / programs in 2016 and deliver a positive ROI for sponsors. OBJECTIVE: PROVIDE NETWORKING EVENTS AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS TO HELP MEMBERS GROW THEIR BUSINESSES. Host at least 120 ribbon cuttings for new members in 2016, attended by members of the Ambassador committee. These events will create a welcoming atmosphere for new members and a strong referral networking group. Celebrate and recognize the Chamber’s and its members’ achievements by hosting the Annual Banquet with more than 900 in attendance. Promote member businesses while creating a relaxed environment for networking by hosting 12 (one a month) Coffee Connection events. At least 40 businessmen and women will take part in each of these early-morning networking events. Plan, coordinate and host four (4) Business-to-Business events with at least 50 in attendance at each event. This helps members generate new business leads in a fun, yet structured atmosphere. Host nine (9) Business After Hours networking events at member businesses with more than 70 people at each event. Coordinate and host one (1) Benton County Business After Hours in partnership with other Benton County chambers of commerce with a goal of at least 100 members present. Coordinate and host two (2) Joint Business After Hours in partnership with the Bentonville / Bella Vista Chamber of Commerce with more than 100 members in attendance. Engage at least 100 individuals by hosting one (1) Bowling for Business event. This unique 6 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016 event provides a relaxed, fun atmosphere perfect for team building and networking. Boost the local economy by hosting the annual Buddy Bass Tournament, which attracts more than 600 fishermen from across the region to participate. Proceeds from this fun, familyfriendly event go toward economic development projects at the Chamber. Show appreciation to community and Chamber volunteers and members by hosting the annual Chamber Picnic in Lowell with at least 200 community members present. Host two (2) golf tournaments (spring and fall) with more than 150 participants in each. These tournaments allow participants to network, make contacts and get referrals in a fun, casual event away from the office. Plan, coordinate and host two job fairs (spring and fall) featuring 100 or more exhibitors and over 1,000 job-seekers between the two events, helping businesses to find candidates locally in a cost-effective way and job-seekers to learn about jobs available in Northwest Arkansas. Host the annual Teacher’s Appreciation Breakfast and Education Fair with 80 vendors and 1,000 educators. The event rewards teachers for their dedication and hard work while providing a welcome to the new school year. OBJECTIVE: INCREASE THE NUMBER OF MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS BY PROVIDING SUPPORT AND MEETING THE NEEDS OF OUR MEMBERS THROUGH GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE. Send new members welcome emails within 24 hours of joining that provides Members Only section login information. Members can view referral reports, learn about upcoming events and programs, and connect with other members in the Members Only section. New members will be invited to attend one (1) Member Orientation to learn how their involvement in the Chamber will benefit their business and community. Members not actively involved in Chamber events and programs will be encouraged to participate and invited to serve on a committee that best suits them and their business. Staff will contact members with invoices past due 45 days to encourage renewal. Staff will provide information from member referral reports to communicate the value of membership. Staff will provide personal customer service to 100 percent of new members so that their business needs, concerns and expectations are met. Staff will visit members 60 days after joining to review referral report, verify reasons for joining, and guide members on how to maximize their membership. All members will be contacted and profile information updated to ensure up-to-date business directory listings. MEMBERSHIP NETWORKING AND EDUCATIONAL EVENTS DATES REMAINING FOR 2016 | May 25 September 28 November 30 DATES REMAINING FOR 2016 | March 17 August 18 April 21 September 15 May 19 October 20 June 16 November 10 July 21 December 15 DATES REMAINING FOR 2016 | March 8 August 9 April 12 September 20 May 10 October 11 June 14 November 8 July 12 December 13 DATES REMAINING FOR 2016 | March 16 May 18 July 20 September 21 November 16 COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT | 2016 Business Plan P HOW WILL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IMPACT YOU? rograms in the Community Development Division impact and enhance the quality of life in Rogers, Lowell and the region by improving the lifestyles and amenities enjoyed by residents as well as attracting newcomers and visitors, and developing leaders for the future. DEVELOP FUTURE COMMUNITY LEADERS | FURTHER LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL IN BENTON COUNTY OBJECTIVE: Coordinate the Leadership Benton County program with a goal of 40 participants completing the program. This program increases the number of trained and knowledgeable leaders in Benton County. OBJECTIVE: DEVELOP FUTURE COMMUNITY LEADERS | INTRODUCE PROGRESSIVE LEADERSHIP SKILLS IN THE ROGERS SCHOOL DISTRICT Staff and volunteers will coordinate leadership development activities for high school students within the Rogers School District as a part of the First Leadership program. Twenty high school students will graduate from the program and become more active and knowledgeable about their community. T DEVELOP FUTURE COMMUNITY LEADERS | CONVENE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS TO POSITIVELY IMPACT THE COMMUNITY THROUGH EMERGING LEADERS OBJECTIVE: In partnership with the Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL), engage new and young business professionals in the region by inviting them to and hosting six (6) professional development programs that focus on volunteerism, leadership skills development, and board service. These will be implemented with consideration of the committee’s mission statement: “NWAEL exists to engage and connect Northwest Arkansas young professionals through personal and professional development experiences.” Increase NWAEL membership by 10 percent from 663 members in 2015 to more than 730 members in 2016. NWAEL will partner with other community leadership development organizations to invite new members from across the region. NWAEL will also implement a new recruitment effort through networking events. Workgroups will organize quarterly programs providing members opportunities to receive personal or professional development experiences. These will offer a broad range of progressive, unique learning opportunities. Establish NWAEL as a pillar for community enrichment by hosting a minimum of five (5) public service projects. These events benefit different community groups to ensure a broad reach across Northwest Arkansas. NWAEL will incorporate new social media outlets that young professionals utilize, and increase its presence on existing social media. This includes developing a refreshed website. NWAEL intends to reach 500 “Followers” on Instagram (+500%), 1,300 “Followers” on Twitter (+10%) and 880 “Followers” on Facebook (+10%) in 2016. SUPPORT EDUCATION. OBJECTIVE: Facilitate the Community-based Scholarship Program, which will award 15 percent of Rogers Public Schools graduates with scholarships to further their education. Host a Chamber Night reception prior to the Rogers Public Schools Annual Report with 75 Chamber members and members of the public in attendance. This event introduces members to elected officials and the idea of public service, as well as issues facing the school district. Award 650 students at Rogers High School, Heritage High School and Rogers New Technology High School with Academic Awards for maintaining a 3.5 GPA for two (2) consecutive semesters. Honor three (3) outstanding educators in the Rogers Public Schools District with the distinct honor of “Educator of the Year” award at the Elementary, Middle and High School levels. Host the annual Teacher’s Appreciation Breakfast and Education Fair with a goal of 80 vendors and 1,000 educators participating. Providing the Region an Ongoing Source of Diverse Leaders hrough education, community awareness and hands-on experience the leadership programming of the Community Development Division aims to provide the region with an ongoing source of diverse leaders at all levels of business expertise that are prepared and committed to serve as catalysts and sustainers of positive change for the quality of life in the region. The Chamber’s successful Leadership programs, First Leadership, Leadership Benton County and Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL), hone the skills of future and key leaders and provide them with understanding of and insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the area. Visit RogersLowell.com (Chamber Section) for more details. Sophomores and juniors residing in Rogers are eligible to apply, and should meet the following requirements: a minimum 2.5 GPA; display of leadership potential yet not overly involved in extra-curricular activities; maintenance of a passing grade in all courses during participation in the program; and the ability to attend all First Leadership sessions. Other desired qualities include a need or desire to be involved, a sense of community interest, the ability to work well with peers, and a desire to serve as a positive influence on peers. Class participants meet monthly from August to May. Sessions focus on local and county government, education, economy, human services, health care, quality of life, state government, regional issues, and leadership skills and theories. Participation in Leadership Benton County is open to persons 25 years of age or older, living and/or working in Benton County. The selection committee seeks representation from a cross-section of the county, reflecting the diversity of the area. Participants should have a strong interest and commitment to serving the Northwest Arkansas region. The Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders program is envisioned as a substantive program for dedicated professionals who seek to be actively engaged in the Northwest Arkansas community. The program is intended to develop candidates for public and private boards, commissions and leadership opportunities as well as to groom individuals to serve and lead our dynamic community. General membership requires a brief membership application (available at www.nwaemergingleaders.com/), acceptance of bylaws, mission statement and core values and a profile on LinkedIn. RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 7 MARKETINGCOMMUNICATIONS | 2016 Business Plan HOW WILL MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS IMPACT YOU? T he Marketing Communications Division impacts the Rogers-Lowell Area, Chamber members and the business community by delivering easily accessible and up-to-date information about local business and the community and by sharing information about the Chamber’s activities and business advocacy. OBJECTIVE: CREATE AND IMPLEMENT A 2016 ADVERTISING MEDIA CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE THE CHAMBER’S MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS MESSAGING PLATFORM (KEY MESSAGES THAT TELL THE CHAMBER’S STORY OF “WHAT WE DO WELL”) AND TO MARKET THE CHAMBER’S PROGRAMS / EVENTS BY TARGETING THREE KEY SEGMENTS: “SMBS,” “LARGE INDUSTRY / CORPORATIONS” AND THE “NORTHWEST ARKANSAS COMMUNITY AT LARGE.” Staff will negotiate a Media Plan and place ads monthly featuring the Chamber’s messaging and promoting programs / events. Staff will write and distribute monthly Press Releases as required. Staff will pitch media at least once per quarter. Coverage will be tracked and measured by number of News Media Stories, Published Feature Articles and Broadcast Feature stories. OBJECTIVE: UTILIZE TRADITIONAL AND NONTRADITIONAL MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS CHANNELS TO HELP THE CHAMBER’S DIVISIONS ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS AND ACCOMPLISH THE CHAMBER’S MISSION. Print and distribute 5,000 Annual Reports and produce monthly Staff Reports to highlight the Chamber’s accomplishments, deliver key messaging and demonstrate ROI for Chamber membership and investment. Print and distribute 25,000 of The Good Life tourism / relocation / visitor guides and 10,000 Community Maps to provide convenient offline access to information potential residents and visitors need. Produce a new series of online videos with CGI Communications that will highlight everything the community has to offer residents, business owners, visitors and people relocating to the 8 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016 area. The video will be featured on the website and other channels to allow viewers a quick and fun way to learn about area attractions, economic development opportunities, quality of life amenities and much more. Maintain up-to-date content on RogersLowell.com on a daily basis. Evolve Small Business Toolkit by adding new content quarterly. Expand the GoCast online video platform usage to capture and deliver increased video content, e.g., event coverage, testimonials and announcements from the Chamber. Pilot and test a new Learning Management System in cooperation with the University of Arkansas Global Campus in Rogers and launch (if feasible) a new members only Learning Center Platform on the website for a potential 2017 rollout. Increase unique visitors to the RogersLowell. com website by enhancing online presence via NEXT! Ad Agency’s online Reputation Management Services (optimizing Google Search with Google Plus and securing reviews). Establish new baseline and build unique visitors back to an average of 10,000 per month for 2016. OBJECTIVE: MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE TIMELY AND FREQUENT CHAMBER NEWS AND INFORMATION BOTH ONLINE AND OFFLINE FOR EFFECTIVE AUDIENCE REACH. Staff will write, design and produce two eNews weekly and one printed newsletter monthly. The weekly Monday Memo will reach an average of 2,800 members per week and the weekly Thursday Calendar at a Glance will reach an average of 2,750 per week both with an average open rate between 23-27 percent. Staff will print and distribute an average of 3,750 Chamber Voice publications per month and post online to increase readership. Staff will post monthly Chamber News and Member News on the website and switch messaging at least monthly for Featured Items on the website home page. OBJECTIVE: STAFF WILL PROVIDE CREATIVE SERVICES ON A DAILY BASIS FOR THE CHAMBER’S DIVISIONS. Staff will manage and track creative design and production jobs weekly for the Chamber’s divisions and programs / events. Staff will update sales collateral as needed for Membership Services. Staff will produce creative for the new Capital Campaign as needed. OBJECTIVE: STAFF WILL MANAGE THE CHAMBER’S BRAND ASSETS VIA QUARTERLY AUDITS OF COLLATERAL, ADVERTISING, MESSAGING, PROCESSES AND LIBRARIES TO ENSURE CONSISTENCY AT ALL TOUCHPOINTS. OBJECTIVE: CONTENT MARKETING STRATEGY WILL BUILD ONLINE COMMUNITY, DIALOGUE AND ENGAGEMENT VIA SOCIAL MEDIA AND CHAMBER BLOG. Will be measured by increasing Facebook “Followers” to 2,850 (+10%), LinkedIn “Followers” to 1,100 (+2%) and Twitter “Followers” to 4,500 (+5%). Continue to evolve Social media as an effective and convenient forum and channel for the Chamber’s online community to stay informed about and interact with the Chamber. Staff will post daily to social media properties. Staff will post content on the Blog at least once per month. Staff will update the brand identity book as needed. Staff will update the digital logo kit for members (Proud Member, Outstanding Small Business of the Quarter and Ambassadors) by the end of the 1st quarter. OBJECTIVE: STAFF WILL PLAN, CREATE AND IMPLEMENT RESEARCH AND SURVEYS FOR THE CHAMBER AS NEEDED. Surveys act as a planning tool for the Chamber’s future direction and serves as a scorecard for members to weigh in on important issues and the Chamber’s programs and services. These will be conducted as needed. VISITROGERS | 2016 Business Plan V HOW WILL VISIT ROGERS IMPACT YOU? isit Rogers impacts the local economy and community by attracting conventions, sports and tour groups, and leisure visitors to Rogers, growing hotel, restaurant, and retail business and adding to the quality of life of our residents. OBJECTIVE: GENERATE OVERNIGHT VISITORS THAT WILL PRODUCE ROOM NIGHTS FOR ROGERS HOTELS AND BUSINESS FOR OUR ATTRACTIONS, RESTAURANTS AND RETAILERS. Generate 60 leads, book 58 meetings, conventions, sports and group tour events in Rogers resulting in 19,000 room nights, and provide services to 35,000 visitors to Rogers. Increase hotel tax revenue by five (5) percent. Identify and engage 50 prospects per month utilizing MINT, online resources and networking. MARKET ROGERS AS A PREMIER DESTINATION FOR LEISURE TRAVELERS, CONVENTIONS AND SPORTING EVENTS. OBJECTIVE: (4) meetings-focused newsletters, and three (3) sports planner-focused newsletters. Increase total visitation to VisitRogersArkansas. com by 25 percent to 200,000. Grow visitors guide requests from the website by 10 percent to 600. Grow overall social media activity and engagement by 25 percent. Publish 20 blog posts covering Rogers activities and events. Host or participate in three (3) familiarization (FAM) tours introducing Northwest Arkansas and Rogers as a viable destination to travel media, and meeting, sports and group tour planners. Offer and provide printing / graphic services to 10 groups, encouraging meeting, sports and group planners to choose Rogers as their destination. ESTABLISH CREDIBILITY AND AWARENESS OF VISIT ROGERS AS THE OFFICIAL DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATION OF THE CITY. OBJECTIVE: Identify opportunities for participation and attendance in local groups and organizations such Spend $200,000 on a mix of digital ads, online as Junior League, Leadership Benton County, Rogers campaigns and web banners in the best media out- Parks & Recreation Commission, Arkansas Associalets possible to maximize exposure for Rogers. tion of Convention & Visitors Bureaus, Arkansas HosCreate six (6) new marketing pieces to be used pitality Association, NATA, and Rogers City Council in mailings and networking that promote Rogers as meetings, fostering support of Visit Rogers initiatives. a premiere destination for meetings and sports. Research and enroll in budget appropriPublish four (4) e-weekender newsletters, four ate opportunities for professional development including Arkansas Governor’s Conference, IOM Winter Institute, Southeast Tourism Society Spring Educational Symposium, Destination Marketing Association International Annual Conference, U.S. Travel Association ESTO, and others. Proactively contact business, leisure and civic editors with story ideas, interviews and photographs about Rogers’ events, campaigns and newsworthy developments. Generate monthly article, insertion or interview in regional media with positive news about tourism in Rogers. Reignite the Rogers “Bring It Home” campaign, involving local stakeholders in the pursuit of meetings and conventions to be held in Rogers, resulting in four (4) leads for future events. OBJECTIVE: PROVIDE EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE TO ENHANCE THE VISITOR EXPERIENCE AND ENCOURAGE REPEAT VISITS TO ROGERS. Monitor and maintain adequate tourism brochure inventory in the Visitors Center monthly to ensure collateral is up-to-date and fully stocked. Create and maintain a current and accurate Calendar of Events on VisitRogersArkansas.com. Refresh current city map, trails map and convention specific restaurant maps quarterly and as needed for specific groups. Set up and maintain welcome tables at conferences and special events, providing promotional items and welcoming services to 35 groups visiting Rogers. RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 9 Small Business Start-Up Summit | Thursday, March 29 SAVE THE DATE| Chamber of Commerce present “Small Business Start-Up Summit”. “How to Start a Business in Arkansas” is the first seminar presented and prepares participants for the intensive business planning process. Find out the major steps crucial to starting a business, identify key issues that affect your business success, and discuss start-up requirements as well as common pitfalls you will face as an entrepreneur. The Walton College Arkansas Small BusiThe second seminar “How to Write a Business and Technology Development Center ness Plan” discusses the business planning proand event co-sponsor the Rogers-Lowell Area cess in detail. Small Business Start-Up Summit Thursday | March 29, 2016 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 317 W. Walnut | Rogers $95 for the Public ($65 for Chamber members) FREE for US Veterans and U of A Staff, Students & Faculty The third seminar “Business Financing Options” explores the many funding options for entrepreneurs such as SBA backed loans, micro loans, and traditional, in-house bank loans and the details for all these options. Pre-registration is required at sbtdc.uark.edu. Center training program sponsors 2016 are Great Southern Bank and Arvest Bank. FREE 40 and 30 page workbooks included! Call (479) 575-5148 for more information. Complimentary breakfast items, snacks, drinks, and lunch are provided. ABOUT THE PRESENTERS | Bill Fox Center Director [email protected] Martha Londagin Business Consultant [email protected] 10 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016 Bill Fox is the Center Director of the Walton College Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. He joined the Walton College ASBTDC as business consultant in 2007 and became Center Director in 2015. Bill oversees all operations of the center and works with small business clients on various types of business issues such as financing options and the loan process, preparation of financial projections, market research, business planning, marketing, and financial management. He also works closely with NWA community resource partners of the center such as area commercial lenders, chambers of commerce, and other university colleges and departments. Before joining the Walton College ASBTDC, Bill was a former small business owner, having developed and operated a retail gift concept store and a catering company. He also has lending experience as a banker/loan officer with Bank of America and has worked in higher education as director of a student enterprise program at the University of Pennsylvania, as coordinator for a disability services program at Broward (FL) Community College, and as a job developer for Florida Atlantic University. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University and an MBA from West Virginia University. Martha Londagin is a Business Consultant with the Walton College Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center. She works with small business clients on various types of business issues such as financing options and the loan process, preparation of financial projections, market research, business planning, marketing, and financial management. She is the center’s business consultant for all client small business traditional and social media marketing plans. Martha also coordinates media relations and marketing efforts on behalf of the Walton College ASBTDC and oversees its small business training seminar program and community resource development partnerships with area chambers of commerce and other business development associations of the eight-county region of Northwest Arkansas. Martha joined the Walton College ASBTDC in 2012 as the Training Coordinator. Martha and her husband have owned a new and used automotive dealership and a wholesale auto business for over ten years. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and was a high school English and Communications teacher prior to graduating from the School of Law at the University of Arkansas where she earned her Juris Doctor. She practiced law in Northwest Arkansas and Northeast Oklahoma for over twelve years with her practice primarily devoted to representing banks, corporations, and small businesses in the legal areas of collections and general civil litigation. Most recently, she was a foreclosure and bankruptcy supervisor for a large NWA financial institution and is currently a licensed attorney in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Three Big Events Coming Up on Chamber Calendar | Save The Dates MARINE &A FORD AD TV BR 25th Annual Bradford Marine & ATV Buddy Bass Tournament Saturday, April 30 Presenting Sponsor | Prairie Creek Marina Pavilions | Beaver Lake Near Rogers Gold Sponsors | REGISTER NOW | T RogersLowell.com or Registration Form he annual Buddy Bass Tournament is a fundraising and community development event. Proceeds are directed toward economic development projects of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce. The tournament attracts hundreds of local fishermen each year and features a fun weigh-in attended by a large crowd who come to watch the tournament’s prize giveaways, enjoy food and entertainment. Sponsorships are still available. Register at RogersLowell.com or inside any Bradford Marine & ATV location. Big Bass Sponsors | Northwest Arkansas Spring Job Fair Presenting Sponsors | Wednesday, May 11 Frisco Station Mall 100 N. Dixieland Rd. | Rogers REGISTRATION ONLINE OPENS SOON! T he Chamber will be hosting both a spring and fall job fair for Northwest Arkansas this year. These job fairs provide local business and industry opportunities to connect with local and regional job seekers, especially important as economic development continues to rebound and more jobs are created for the workforce. Call (479) 636-1240 if you are interested in sponsorship opportunities. 2016 Spring Golf Tournament Monday, May 16 Tee Times | 8:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. Shadow Valley Country Club 7001 Shadow Valley Rd. | Rogers REGISTER NOW | RogersLowell.com or Registration Form Insert (inside this Chamber Voice issue) T reat yourself, reward employees and say thank you to clients at the Spring Golf Tournament, a four-person scramble with shotgun start times of 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. It’s going to be a fun day at Shadow Valley Country Club with contests and prizes, goodies, snacks, beverages and delicious food. You’ll enjoy networking on the course and the 19th Hole Party immediately following play. Hole sponsorships are still available. Register at RogersLowell.com or with the insert inside this newsletter. Presenting Sponsor | RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 11 December 2015 Welcome NEW MEMBERS | January 2016 Ace Quality Construction C.J. Stephens 108 Hailey Dr., Centerton (479) 877-0143 Construction - Commercial The House Steven Sexton 1704 W. Industrial Dr., Rogers (501) 655-1252 | welcometothehouse.com/ Churches Russet Rose Cori Spears 5212 W. Village Pkwy., Ste. 10, Rogers (479) 657-2768 | therussetrose.com/ Boutiques & Specialty Shops Arbor Vitae Chiropractic Dr. Tom Niemela Bentonville (573) 690-5958 | Find Us On Facebook Chiropractors Joe Gunnels Tours Joe Gunnels P.O. Box 24, Eureka Springs (479) 253-6852 | joegunnelstours.com Tourist Information Signature Bank of Arkansas - Bentonville Shannon Crain 700 S.E. Walton Blvd., Ste. 2, Bentonville (479) 254-2970 | sbofa.com Banks Barnes Business Development Debi Barnes Rogers (479) 899-7060 Promotional Products Johnson Insurance Agency Kevin Johnson 805 N. 20th Pl., Ste. 1, Rogers (479) 903-7088 | johnsoninsurancenow.com Insurance Signature Bank of Arkansas - Fayetteville Kyle Cupp 3878 N. Crossover Rd., Ste. 20, Fayetteville (479) 684-3700 | sbofa.com Banks Best of Northwest Arkansas Lynn West (479) 586-3018 | nwatravelguide.com Tourist Information Grace Judson Holiday Island (760) 521-5720 | gracejudson.com Consulting - Business & Management Buffington Homes of Arkansas Juliana Salazar 2826 E. Joyce Blvd., Fayetteville (479) 251-1106 | buffingtonhomesar.com Real Estate - Developers and Investors Kasey Kinney Photography Kasey Nichols Rogers (806) 470-2893 | kaseykinneyphotography.com Photographers & Studios Signature Bank of Arkansas - Springdale Kayla Spradling 1071 Har-Ber Lakes Dr., Springdale (479) 361-6677 | sbofa.com Banks Christopher Boothe Massage Services Christopher Boothe, LMT 314 N. 13th St., Rogers (479) 366-9657 | chrisboothelmt.com Massage Therapy New Province Brewing Co. Derek McEnroe 1310 W. Hudson Rd., Rogers (479) 531-3233 | newprovincebrewing.com/ Breweries Colonial Life - Susan Weller Susan Weller Rogers (479) 544-6057 Insurance Ouroboros International Rose-Marie Speck 3511 S.E. J St. #147, Bentonville (501) 291-1858 | ouroborosinternational.com/ Coaching - Business & Personal Core Brewing Company - XNA Brew Pub Jeff Genova 1 Regional Airport Blvd., Bentonville (479) 111-1111 | corebeer.com Breweries Papa Bear Productions Karaoke & DJ Service Andrea Vannoy Rogers (479) 270-4782 | Find Us On Facebook DJ Services Grounds Guys John Ivy Centerton (479) 685-3688 | groundsguys.biz Landscape Design/Installation Porter Construction Nathan Bingham 3821 McClure Dr., Rogers (479) 273-2866 and (479) 544-2455 | porter1.com Contractors - Building, General, Home Guest Inn Sunil Panchal 1601 S. 8th St., Rogers (479) 636-1733 | guestinnrogers.com Hotels Rogers Catfish House Marilyn Hawkins 2102 S. 8th St., Rogers (479) 935-9211 | rogerscatfishhouse.com Restaurants - Seafood 12 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016 Sugar Lily Floral Designs Amy Glass 2882 W. Walnut St., Ste. 8, Rogers (479) 246-0000 | sugarlilyfloraldesigns.com Florist VFW Post 3031 Charles Noeltner 11160 N. Old Wire Rd., Rogers (479) 636-7042 | vfwpost3031.com Organizations Vibrant Motors, LLC Robert Sult 125 N. Bloomington St., Lowell (479) 464-8882 Automobile Dealers - Used December 2015 | January 2016 MCLARTY DANIEL FORD CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM 2201 S.E. Moberly Lane, Bentonville CHRISTOPHER BOOTHE MASSAGE SERVICES 314 N. 13th St., Rogers MERCY EMS - HICKORY CREEK 15645 E. Highway 264, Lowell ROGERS CATFISH HOUSE 2102 S. 8th St., Rogers Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Sponsor | SAVE THE DATE | Learn more about your Chamber of Commerce and the programs that benefit you and your business at Member Orientation. Here’s an opportunity to familiarize yourself and your employees with all of the benefits available through your Chamber membership. You’ll learn more about the Chamber’s website and how it helps to promote your business, and more about Chamber advertising media to incorporate into your marketing plan. Member Orientation is offered every other month during the year. This orientation is beneficial for new members, members that want a refresher on what the Chamber has to offer and new company representatives. It’s an excellent overview of Chamber networking events and other programs all designed to help grow your business and make the most of your membership. Member Orientation is conducted by members of the Small Business Council and is free and open to all members. Please register as space is limited to the first 30 respondents. Wednesday, March 16 | 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce 317 W. Walnut St. | Rogers Free and Open to Members Registration Required Presenting Sponsor | Platinum Sponsor | RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 13 December 2015 MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS | January 2016 30+ years Moser Corporation - 69 years Shofner’s Office Supply - 65 years Farmers Protective Mutual Insurance Company - 63 years Kennametal Inc. - 63 years Arvest Bank - 60 years Mercy Health Northwest Arkansas - 60 years Carroll Electric Cooperative Corporation - 53 years pb2 architecture + engineering - 53 years SourceGas Arkansas Inc. - 50 years Village Insurance, Inc. - 50 years WestRock - 50 years McGoodwin, Williams & Yates, Inc. - 48 years Hinson & Company, Inc. - 47 years Kurt’s Furniture - 43 years Ozark Fence Co., Inc. - 43 years Realty Title - 40 years Tyson Foods, Inc. - 40 years War Eagle Mill, Inc. - 39 years Executive Coffee Services - 38 years Winter Moving & Storage - 38 years HUNT VENTURES - 34 years Office of Human Concern - 33 years Ozark Arts & Crafts Fair/The War Eagle Fair - 31 years Stribling Inc. - 31 years 21-30 years All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning ArTech PC CRJW First National Bank of NWA Hampton Inn Motel iHeartMedia Jordan’s Printing Company McDonald Eye Associates Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, P.L.L.C. Owens Janitorial Service Prairie Creek Association Professional Business Systems Ride-Rite Auto Sales, Inc. Rogers Apartments Thrasher & Chambers Inc. Unruh Chiropractic & Wellness Center Verizon Wireless 11-20 years AAA Business Systems, Inc. Abuelo’s - Mexican Food Embassy Bailey & Oliver Law Firm Best Sign Group Carpet One Floor & Home CFSI Financial Services, Inc. Elite Title Company, Inc. Galvan’s Digital Systems H & R Block Hobbs State Park - Conservation Area Hudson Appraisals, Inc. Inland Waste Solutions, LLC 14 Chamber Voice | MARCH2016 Jeremy D. Smith, DDS, PA Ken Berley, D.D.S., LTD Larson’s Language Center Lindsey & Associates - Martha Prowell Lindsey & Associates - Meza Harris Literacy Council of Benton County, Inc. Macadoodles Liquor - Missouri Marvin’s Savers Club Northwest Arkansas Food Bank Northwest Arkansas Home Builders Association Outback Steakhouse Ozark Regional Transit PeaceKids Learning Center & Preschool Pig Trail Harley-Davidson PostNet - Village on the Creeks Residence Inn by Marriott Rick McLeod - Farmers Insurance Group Shelley M. Parson Insurance Agency SOHO Clothiers Transplace United Bank Year Round Lawncare/Lexa’s Pottery 6-10 years 3W Magazine Advanced Telecom Group Alexander Open Systems - AOS Bogle Properties Broadaway Printing C.R. Crawford Construction Children’s Advocacy Center of Benton County Circle of Life Hospice CED Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Robert Adair, D.D.S. and Heather Adams, D.D.S. Fleming Electric, Inc. Friendship Community Care Good Steward Pet Sitting Service Helms Chiropractic, P.A. Helping Hands, Inc. HoganTaylor LLP The House of Prayer Humane Society for Animals, Inc. Jamie’s Notebook Janacek Construction JKJ Architects, PLLC KFSM TV-5 / KXNW TV-34 Kirby’s Kupcakes Leisurescapes, Inc. McKee Foods Corporation Midland Construction, Inc. Milestone Construction Company, LLC Nestle Walmart Team Old Town Autobody & Sales, Inc. The Poultry Federation Precision Fitness RB Rogers Community School Recreation Association Sharum’s Garden Center NWA, Inc. Stout Executive Search Taco Bell TekTrendz, LLC Thomas Fence Tire Tracks Tung Yung International (USA) Inc. Washington Regional Foundation 2-5 years A & B Distributors of Arkansas, Inc. Able Electric, Inc. Joe Aiello APEX of Northwest Arkansas B&B Heating& Air, Inc. Beaver Lake Vacation Rentals, LLC Belle Journee Spa Capstone Commercial Advisors, LLC Chennai Café Comfort Keepers Comstock Conflict Resolution Services Custom Design Hair Dilbert Consulting Group Dunk Fire & Security, Inc. Elkins Design England Family Dental Everett Buick GMC Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Genco The Great Passion Play Harvey Pediatrics, PLLC State Representative Grant Hodges Keith, Miller, Butler, Schneider & Pawlik, PLLC The Markham Group Mellow Mushroom Mojitos Modern Mexican Grill Mountain Spring Water Company Mountain Water Cabin, LLC New Life Graphics Inc. Oakley Chapel United Methodist Church The Party Place Pilgrims Rest RV Park Real Medical Management Rogers Bowling Center Rogers Learning Center Rogers Youth Baseball SimpleX Payroll Technical Machinery Sales The UPS Store 1 year The Artist Evolution Core Brewing Company - Rogers Brew Pub Deaf United Organization Farmers Insurance - Scott Satterlee Insurance Morrow Heat & Air Preston and Company Rick’s Bakery Chamber Networking & Educational Events The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a variety of events to help build your network and learn. For more event details and to register, visit us online at RogersLowell.com. Location: Hosted by: Presenting Sponsors: Arvest Bank George Nunnally Chevrolet March 8, 2016 Razorback Foundation, Inc. Professional Business Systems - PBS 2905 S. Walton Blvd., Ste. 5 | Bentonville Location: Hosted by: Presenting Sponsor: Cherokee Casino & Hotel March 17, 2016 Sunrise Seminar Series Presenting Sponsor: First Western Sunrise Seminar Series Breakfast Sponsor: March 2, 2016 The Promenade Apartments The Promenade Apartments at Pinnacle Hills at Pinnacle Hills 4101 W. Huntington Dr., Rogers Speaker: Topic: Corry Hull Legacy Capital Group Healthcare Reform Update for Small Employers Location: Address: Northwest Arkansas Board of Realtors Event Center 314 N. Goad Springs Rd., Lowell Speakers: Topic: Whataburger Presenting Sponsor: Crain Automotive Team Gold Sponsors: May 25, 2016 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Cox Business KFSM TV-5 / KXNW TV-34 Presenting Sponsor: Sam’s Club March 29, 2016 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Bill Fox, Center Director Martha Londagin, Business Consultant Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center Small Business Start-up Summit Advertising with the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Your Banner Ad Here THE GOOD LIFE Advertise in the annual tourism and relocation print guide (also published online) featuring maps, restaurants and lodging lists, regional activities and attractions, and resources for visiting, living, working and playing in the Rogers-Lowell Area. Your message is printed in over 25,000 copies distributed to tourists, business travelers, new residents, current citizens and convention attendees. Call to reserve your space in the 2016-2017 issue now. ROGERSLOWELL.COM Advertise online in the Chamber’s website and reach thousands of unique visitors each month. Paid advertising options include leaderboard ads (at the top of highly visited web pages), featured banners on select web pages and enhanced listings. Free online options include listing your business in the website’s Business Directory, offering eCoupons, sharing events in the Community Calendar and posting news in the Members News section with links to your website. CHAMBER VOICE Advertise and place promotional inserts in the monthly printed newsletter (also published online) that’s mailed to nearly 4,000 members at the first of each month. It’s an affordable and cost effective way to promote your business brand, products and services to decision-makers. Ads are due on the 10th and inserts due on the 15th of the month prior to each issue. Call for an Advertising Contract now. ENEWSLETTERS On Mondays (Monday Memo) and Thursdays (Calendar at a Glance) the Chamber communicates weekly to over 5,000 members, business leaders and qualified buyers via professionally produced emails. Provide us your banner ad (design not included) by the last Friday of the month to advertise in the upcoming month’s issues. Call for an Advertising Contract now. RogersLowell.com | MARCH2016 15 317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 RogersLowell.com Paid for through Periodical “Chamber Voice” (USPS 492950) is published monthly in January, February, March, May, June, July, August, September, October November and December; (semi-monthly in April) by the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc., 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756. Periodical postage paid at Rogers, AR. POSTMASTER send address changes to: ROGERS-LOWELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER, 317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756.