FEBRUARY2018 | Vol 13 Issue 2 - Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of ...
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FEBRUARY2018 | Vol 13 Issue 2
PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
2
A Letter from the Chairman
The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of The Chamber’s Government Affairs division played a significant
Commerce is the Voice of Business and this role in gaining passage of 17 pieces of legislation included on the 22-
year celebrates its 96th year as the premier item Northwest Arkansas Legislative Agenda advancing issues key to the
advocacy organization for businesses in our continued prosperity of the region. The division hosted public forums
region. Over the years, your Chamber has built and educated members on critical issues that have an impact on the
a reputation for impacting the community local, state and national levels. Staff also worked with the State Chamber
through its programs devoted to not only and legislators to secure up to 12 million dollars in additional funding for
economic development and government affairs, workforce training through excess state scholarship lottery funds.
but also to small business outreach, workforce The tourism industry positively impacted the Rogers-Lowell economy
recruitment and retention, destination in 2017. Visit Rogers helped our community host events such as The
marketing (attracting visitors to Rogers-Lowell Poultry Festival, Daisy National BB Gun Championships, Senior Softball
and the region), education, quality of life, leadership development and Midwest Championships and the Tyson Sales Meeting. These events enjoyed
long-range community strategic planning. record attendance and provided revenue for area businesses. Staff also
I’m pleased to report that 2017 was another successful year for represented Northwest Arkansas at Travel South International Showcase,
growing business and building community in the Rogers-Lowell area and conducting 30 face-to-face meetings with international tour operators
our efforts are being recognized nationally. Rogers ranked 45th on Time from over 12 countries. Visit Rogers generated 116 leads for its partners,
Money’s Top 100 Places to Live in 2017. The Northwest Arkansas (MSA) booked 56 groups, and tracked 17,389 room nights and 43,285 attendees
was also ranked the Fifth Best Place to Live by U.S. News and World Report in 2017.
last year. I’m proud to say that our Chamber is not only ready to build on its
Let’s look back at some of this year’s highlights and accomplishments: 2017 successes but also to envision the future with its “Roadmap to 2022
In 2017, new business growth and expansions resulted in significant | Chamber 3.0” initiative. We began exploring last year how the Chamber
job creation and helped to create opportunities for Chamber members to will adapt and evolve to ensure our best days are ahead of us, especially
sell their goods and services to new businesses and residents. Businesses as new generations start to represent an increasingly diverse membership
in the Rogers-Lowell area created over 2,500 new jobs last year. At the base. You’ll learn more specifics about the initiative throughout the year
end of the year, the unemployment rate was 2.5 percent. Gamo/Daisy and may be asked to provide feedback and ideas. Learn more about this
announced an expansion that will create over 40 new jobs and bring new year’s programs in the 2018 Business Plan to be published in the March
capital investment. The Chamber also helped to gain approval of tax back issue of the Chamber Voice.
incentives for the upcoming Cryovac, a division of Sealed Air, and Dymark On behalf of the entire Chamber, I sincerely thank you for your
expansions that will create future manufacturing jobs. membership and involvement this past year. We couldn’t have achieved
Last year turned out to be another fantastic year continuing this success without you. Our members fuel the ideas, goals, manpower,
economic development momentum that started earlier this decade. For drive and financial ability that enable us to create the ideal environment
example, since 2011, over $145 million in public capital investment and for businesses of all sizes to prosper.
over $1.2 billion in private capital investment have now occurred in the In this Annual Report, we’ve outlined 2017 accomplishments and
Rogers-Lowell area. New retail and restaurant development performed at highlights of the Chamber’s leadership in our region. I hope you will be
a good pace in 2017 with 18 new restaurants opening. During the year, inspired by our achievements of the past year and join us this year as we
the Chamber spoke with seven retail consultants about new retail options continue working together to make the Rogers-Lowell area a great place
and shopping centers opening within Rogers. Two groundbreaking to live, work and play.
ceremonies were held for new retail and office space as well as a
groundbreaking for a new elementary school.
The Downtown Rogers Master Plan (implemented in 2015 as part of David Faulkner
the overall Community Strategic Plan) also gained momentum. Working 2017 Chairman of the Board
with the City of Rogers, the Chamber promoted attractions and amenities Pinnacle Hills Promenade
like The Railyard Bike Park, Lake Atalanta Park, the Parks and Trail System
and the Downtown Rogers Farmer’s Market and helped launch the new
monthly Art on the Bricks art walk. The parks and trails system, historic
surroundings and a welcoming quality of life are among the features
that are making Downtown Rogers attractive to a growing number of
businesses and investors.
Over $70 million in private and public capital has been invested
in Downtown Rogers alone since 2014. Last year, a total of 38 new
businesses opened their doors in downtown, and at the end of the year, The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
14 additional businesses were currently scheduled to open in 2018 that is one out of just 112 chambers of 7,000+
will represent more than 150 new jobs. nationwide accredited with Five Stars.
PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
3
CHAMBER STAFF
Raymond Burns, CCE Vickie Grotts Marni Rogers
President/CEO Vice President of Accounting & Finance Member Relations Manager
rburns@rogerslowell.com vickie@rogerslowell.com marni@rogerslowell.com
J.R. Shaw Karen Wagaman Kelly Parker
Executive Director/Executive Vice President | Visit Rogers Vice President of Downtown Development Sports & Tourism Marketing Manager | Visit Rogers
jr@rogerslowell.com karen@rogerslowell.com kelly@rogerslowell.com
Katie Wright Heather Friday Luke Wiggins
Chief Operations Officer Finance Manager Meetings & Conventions Sales Manager | Visit Rogers
katie@rogerslowell.com heather@rogerslowell.com luke@rogerslowell.com
Shelle Summers, IOM Maddie Ward Justin Freeman
Senior Vice President of Membership Services Special Events Coordinator Marketing Communications Specialist
ssummers@rogerslowell.com maddie@rogerslowell.com justin@rogerslowell.com
Steve Cox Ross Phillips Ashley Matsumura
Senior Vice President of Economic Development Director of Community Development Information Specialist
steve@rogerslowell.com ross@rogerslowell.com ashley@rogerslowell.com
Brad Phillips Nick Smith Amanda Mills
Senior Vice President of Marketing Communications Creative Services Director Information Specialist
brad@rogerslowell.com nick@rogerslowell.com amanda@rogerslowell.com
Jon Moran Jacque Eakins
Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Account Executive
jon@rogerslowell.com jacque@rogerslowell.com
WHAT WE BELIEVE
MISSION VALUES
We act ethically in all we do.
To be the voice of business, to promote and We honor and serve all business and our community.
initiate responsible economic growth, and We work together.
We believe in the Rogers-Lowell Area and NWA.
to address community challenges in the We advocate a positive business environment.
Rogers-Lowell Area and the region. We continuously improve the business climate.
We believe in and promote free enterprise.
We know that it is up to us to make a difference.
We promote quality, growth and opportunity.
VISION We identify, develop and involve leaders.
We believe in preserving, promoting and enhancing
Quality
the quality of life in the Rogers-Lowell Area.
Growth We listen and respond to our membership.
We have fun.
Opportunity
We strive to cultivate a cohesive community.
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2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
4
Chairman of the Board Chairman-Elect Treasurer Past Chairman RIDC President President/CEO
David Faulkner Eric Pianalto Greg Fogle Nick Hobbs Jerry Vest Raymond Burns, CCE
Pinnacle Hills Promenade Mercy NWA Nabholz Construction JB Hunt Transport, Inc. Regions Bank
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS
Chairman of the Board – David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade Dr. Marlin Berry - Rogers Public Schools
Chairman-Elect – Eric Pianalto, Mercy NWA Jerry Carmichael - 3C Retail Solutions
Treasurer – Greg Fogle, Nabholz Construction Barry Moehring - Benton County Judge
Past Chairman – Nick Hobbs, J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. Richard D. Davis - Black Hills Energy
President/CEO – Raymond Burns Mike Dodge - Carroll Electric Coop. Corp.
RIDC President – Jerry Vest, Regions Bank Sandy Edwards - Crystal Bridges Museum
W. Dan Hendrix - World Trade Center Arkansas
2017 Directors Greg Hines - Mayor - City of Rogers
Frank Bailey, Bailey & Oliver Law Firm Tom Hopper - Crafton, Tull
Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Luxury Real Estate Redefined Dr. Evelynn Jorgenson - NWACC
Mauricio Herrera, Legal Center of NWA Peter Lane - Walton Arts Center
Tabi Lipscomb, Arvest Benton County David Lang - Embassy Suites of NWA
J.D. Davis, AMP Sign & Banner Eldon Long - Mayor - City of Lowell
Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods Mike Power - First Security Bank
Dawn Spragg - Central United Methodist Curch
2018 Directors Thom Stathakis - Everett Buick GMC
Dick Trammel - Arkansas Highway Commission
Keri Earwood, Shelter Insurance
Dennis Ferguson, Simmons Bank
Jon Harrell, Generations Bank DIVISION CHAIRS
Jeff Milford, AEP/SWEPCO Community Development - Tina Winham
David Roth, WorkMatters Membership Services - Keri Earwood
Tina Winham, SC Johnson A Family Company Economic Development - Jeff Milford
Government Affairs - Jerry Carmichael
2019 Directors Convention & Visitors Bureau - David Lang
Harrison Kiser, Northwest Health
Jill Bright, Grand Savings Bank AUDIT COMMITTEE
Corry Hull, OneDigital Health and Benefits Jill Bright, Frank Bailey & Jon Harrell
Erin Kiefer, Assembled Products Corporation
Chris Sultemeier
Angie Tucker-Ridley, Tucker’s Furniture & Appliance
January 18:
January 9: At the Shooting Hunting Outdoor Trade
The 91st Arkansas General Assembly (SHOT) Show in Las Vegas, Keith January 30:
convened in Little Rock. During Higginbotham, President of Gamo The Northwest Arkansas Razorback
the Assembly, staff worked with Outdoor USA and Daisy, along Regional Greenway wayfinding and
legislators, other chambers, industry with Arkansas Governor Asa informational signs installation began
representatives, and the Arkansas Hutchinson announced expansion along the 37-mile shared-use, paved
State Chamber on the passage or of the Daisy plant in Rogers. The trail from south Fayetteville, through
defeat of key legislation affecting the expanded facility will serve as U.S. Rogers, to Lake Bella Vista.
business community. headquarters for both Daisy and Gamo
Outdoor USA.
TIMELINE: January 2017
PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
5
Celebrating a Successful 2017
|
8th
6th
Top 100
BEST BEST
12 5
th TOP th
60
BEST PLACE BEST
25 3
th rd
BEST
BEST PLACES BEST
( %)
February 9:
February 27:
Mercy Northwest Arkansas
February 21: The 2017 Northwest Arkansas February 28:
President Eric Pianalto, and
Members and the public Night Out Legislative Reception Members and the public
Chairman-Elect for the
joined the Chamber and was held in Little Rock. joined the Chamber and
Chamber, provided
community leaders The event was hosted community leaders
insights into healthcare
for a Chamber Night by the Northwest for a Chamber Night
during the Cross
Reception at Lowell Arkansas Chambers Reception at Rogers
Church Summit
City Hall. Mayor Eldon of Commerce and City Hall. Mayor Greg
Luncheon in Rogers. In
Long delivered the offered a unique Hines delivered the
Benton and Washington
State of the City address opportunity to meet and State of the City address
counties the sector has been
following the reception. visit with state elected officials, following the reception.
pegged for the biggest growth
legislators, and policy makers.
over the next few years.
TIMELINE: February 2017
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2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
6
The Economic Development Division proactively provides innovative programs,
assistance and technology to aid, support and increase business opportunities for
new and existing business and industry, and expands the retail and service business
available in our community to increase the local tax base. New job creation and
business expansion impacts businesses by creating meaningful opportunities for
Chamber members to sell their goods and services to those 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.
2017 Objectives |
38 NEW BUSINESSES
opened in Downtown Rogers
Economic Development
in 2017
• Proactively promote expansion and retention
of local businesses and industry.
9 BUILDINGS
• Support or lead the process to identify regional
community development initiatives to advance
the region’s competitiveness for jobs, workers
and capital investment.
• Expand services and retail amenities to help
attract a diverse, first-class workforce.
in Downtown Rogers
• Address employer and jobseeker needs
through innovative web tools and other
were being renovated at
recruitment marketing.
• Recruit and retain a high-quality workforce.
the end of 2017
• Engage in small business outreach.
181 MEETINGS
• Implement Downtown Master Plan
• Engage in minority business development.
• Engage in minority community outreach.
In 2017,
were held with building owners, developers, business owners, city staff
The following highlights are from the Chamber’s
and others to discuss their interests and business goals
2017 YEAR-END STAFF REPORT.
For the full report visit
IMPACTPOSSIBLE.COM/VOICE
March 24:
March 3:
Visit Rogers kicked off the 2017 March 26-31:
March 1: The 95th Annual Banquet
tourism season at its first- The World Trade Center
The Chamber released celebrated 2016
ue 3
l 12 Iss
17 | Vo
H20
ever Tourism Talk event Arkansas (WTCA) hosted
MARC
its 2017 Business Plan accomplishments and
providing insights into its Central America Trade
MMUN
ITY.
issue of the Chamber John N. Roberts,
SS. B
uildin
g CO
visitor trends, updates Mission in Costa Rica
wing
BUSINE Voice outlining specific President and CEO
Gro
on marketing efforts and to explore business
programs and goals for of J.B. Hunt Transport
premiering the newest opportunities with a
the year. Services, Inc., presented
issue of The Good Life visitor business delegation.
the keynote address.
and relocation guide.
TIMELINE: March 2017
PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
7
3
The Chamber produced
28 SHORT VIDEOS GROUNDBREAKING
to promote Downtown Rogers and highlight CEREMONIES
economic development and were held for retail and
interactive experiences and initiated office space as well as a
Gamo/Daisy announced new elementary school in
78 Media Coverage opportunities
an expansion that will Rogers in 2017
CREATE OVER Chamber staff members assisted
347resources
INQUIRIES
40 NEW JOBS
and bring NEW CAPITAL NWA Job Fairs had over
regarding on starting
a small business
INVESTMENT
100 EMPLOYERS The Chamber helped to gain
Art
The Chamber co-founded the and over
500 ATTENDEES
approval of tax back incentives for the
upcoming Cryovac (a division of Sealed Air) and
on Dymark expansions that will create
Bricks in 2017 future manufacturing jobs
18
the
Art Walk
New Restaurants
with 5 Downtown Organizations to promote
the vision of a Maker Community outlined in the
Downtown Rogers Master Plan opened in 2017
2 K2J Connect Events
Rogers CREATED OVER 2,500 JOBS in 2017. held in 2017 with the goal of
Unemployment rate at the end of the year WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
was 2.5 percent EDUCATION
for school officials, students, and parents
April 18:
April 3: Chamber University held its Business April 27-30:
Governor Asa Hutchinson Law Bootcamp. Topics included April 20: The fifth tournament of the 22nd
signed SB 581 into law business entity selection, The Chamber’s April season of the FLW Tour, the most
as Act 658 of 2017 intellectual property, Business After Hours competitive Tour in professional
which enhances influencer advertising, was held at Embassy bass-fishing, kicked off April
local economic social media for Suites Northwest 27-30 with the FLW Tour at
development startups, Federal Trade Arkansas and Beaver Lake presented by
efforts and Commission guidelines, celebrated the Rogers General Tire. Hosted by Visit
allows Arkansas to mergers and acquisitions, Noon Rotary Club’s Rogers, the event featured 322
be more competitive. negotiating commercial 100th birthday. of the world’s best bass-fishing
leases, and liability issues for the professionals and co-anglers.
small business owner.
TIMELINE: April 2017
PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
8
The Membership Services Division attracts new members while providing existing
members with the programs, information and services needed to enhance their
competitive edge in the marketplace. Membership Services staff will provide over-
the-top customer service for the membership of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of
Commerce by providing valuable services and programming which yields a return on
their investment. We will impact our members by offering business building events and
educational opportunities to support local businesses.
2017 Objectives | 2,171 Members which included
Finished 2017 with
Membership Services
252 New Memberships sold during 2017
• Support the Chamber’s mission of “Growing
Business, Building Community” through Coordinated
130 BUSINESS EVENTS
membership sales and event sponsorships.
• Provide networking events and
educational programs to help members
grow their businesses.
• Increase the number of membership
renewals by providing support and and programs for Members and the Community.
meeting the needs of our members
through great customer service.
The Chamber’s newest event,
The following highlights are from the Chamber’s
2017 YEAR-END STAFF REPORT. was held on October 13 and had
For the full report visit
IMPACTPOSSIBLE.COM/VOICE
MORE THAN 100
PARTICIPANTS
26th Annual
The
Buddy Bass Tournament
was held on May 6 on Beaver Lake.
548 fishermen participated.
21 Kids participated in the Youth Fishing Tournament
May 2:
Chamber University held its May 17:
May 6:
May 1: Spanish Seminar Series with the The Northwest Arkansas Spring Job
The Chamber’s 26th annual Buddy
Northwest Arkansas (MSA) Walton College Arkansas Fair presented by Home Instead
Bass Tournament was held
ranked as the Fifth Small Business Senior Care and Glad
at Prairie Creek Pavilion.
Best Place to Live by and Technology Manufacturing Company
Close to 600 anglers
U.S. News and World Development Center was held at Frisco Station
participated. A total of
Report. Rogers ranked and Mariam Martinez Mall helping connect job
388 fish totaling 814.66
45th in Time Money’s Law Firm, PLLC. The seekers to employment
pounds were caught
Top 100 Places to Live seminar topic was opportunities. A total of 50
during the “catch and release”
in 2017. Starting a Business in companies exhibited to over
tournament.
Arkansas for Hispanic and Latino 220 attendees.
Entrepreneurs.
TIMELINE: May 2017
PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
9
28 BUSINESS-BUILDING
MEMBER
Provided
NETWORKING EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES
The
ENGAGEMENT
in 2017 which allowed members to
GROW THEIR PROFESSIONAL
NETWORK and GENERATE
COMMITTEE
BUSINESS LEADS
Events included: The Chamber entertained
4 events helped with retention by
educating members on benefits
and encouraging participation in
245 Golfers at the
12 events Chamber events and programs.
They contacted a total of
Spring & Fall Golf Tournaments
providing members a
196 members relaxed environment for
12 events in 2017 business networking
51% of the businesses who joined from Members of the
In 2017, the
TOP 3
JANUARY 1, 2017 through DECEMBER 31, 2017 is AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE
located in Rogers and Lowell. A total of 72% promoted membership growth &
REASONS
of the member businesses is located in
retention and event participation
Benton County
by functioning as a PROACTIVE,
GOODWILL EXTENSION OF THE CHAMBER. to Join the Chamber:
NEW MEMBERS BY CITY They helped to host 101
1) Community Involvement +
RIBBON CUTTINGS for new Increasing Visibility
members in 2017
14% 14% 2) Networking +
13% New Business Contacts
4%
47% 8% 3) Marketing/Advertising/
Publicity Opportunities
June 19:
June 5: June 24:
The Northwest Arkansas Council
Crain Automotive Team won overall The 5k @ the LPGA benefiting Mercy
announced that Nelson Peacock had
first place at the 2017 Spring returned to #NWAChampionship Week
been named the new President
Golf Tournament held at the with an estimated 1,500 runners.
and CEO and would start mid-July.
Shadow Valley Country Club in The start and finish were held at the
The Arkansas native returned to
Rogers. They were the winners Walmart AMP, with the race route
Arkansas from California, where
of the p.m. flight, while Unilever taking runners through the Gatorade
he had worked since 2014 at the
won the a.m. flight. Loudest Hole on Tour - #17.
California Office of the President.
TIMELINE: June 2017
PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
10
Visit Rogers’ mission is to positively impact the Rogers economy through the
promotion of the area as a retail, business and convention destination.
56 BOOKED MEETINGS AND EVENTS | 17,389 TRACKED ROOM NIGHTS
43,285 ATTENDEES FROM 71 GROUPS MET IN ROGERS IN 2017
2017 Objectives | Economic impact to the community of
$14 MILLION*
Visit Rogers
• Generate overnight visitors that will produce
116 LEADS
room nights for Rogers hotels and business
for our attractions, restaurants and retailers.
• Market Rogers as a premier destination for leisure
The ROGERS LODGING TAX
travelers, conventions and sporting events. increased from two to three percent in September.
• Establish credibility and awareness of Visit At year-end 2017, the Rogers hotel tax collections
were sent to Visit Rogers
increased 29.8 percent
Rogers as the official destination marketing
$1,082.180
organization of the city. Partners in 2017
• Provide excellent customer service to
enhance the visitor experience and encourage
Staff represented over 2016 to
Northwest Arkansas at
repeat visits to Rogers.
The following highlights are from the Chamber’s
2017 YEAR-END STAFF REPORT.
Travel South
International Showcase ,
HOSTED 3
FAMILIARIZATION TOURS
For the full report visit conducting 30 face-to-face meetings with and 15 site inspections
IMPACTPOSSIBLE.COM/VOICE international tour operators from over 12 for planners considering
different countries Rogers for their events
A total of
$317,165
Collaboration with Miles Partnerships
produced a new responsive
website, customer relationship management (CRM) software
and adventure-focused digital marketing campaign, resulting in
increased interest and engagement
was invested in marketing from targeted demographics across all platforms
during 2017 *Estimates as of January 2018
July 1:
July 17:
The 2016 Fortune 500 Largest U.S. July 28-30: July 31:
The Chamber launched its next
Corporations list was released, and The 2017 Rogers Cycling Festival, The Chamber’s Government
generation Voice of Business Blog
Northwest Arkansas had sponsored by the Northwest Affairs division and the
at impactpossible.com/voice.
three companies on the Arkansas Emerging Northwest Arkansas
The blog features new
list headquartered Leaders. The festival Emerging Leaders
categories for content
here. Walmart topped consisted of several program held
created by in-house
the list as the largest USA Cycling-sanctioned the Ready to Run
writers as well as guest
U.S. corporation. Tyson road cycling and Political Candidate
writers offering their
Foods ranked number 82 mountain biking events Training Series at
professional expertise on a
while J.B. Hunt moved up to held in Downtown Rogers. Record Downtown.
variety of subjects.
number 407 this year.
TIMELINE: July 2017PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
11
The Community Development Division creates and supports innovative leadership and
educational programs that impact and enhance the quality of life in Rogers, Lowell
and the region by improving lifestyles and amenities enjoyed by residents as well as
newcomers and visitors.
213
The Community-based Scholarship Program
2017 Objectives | The Chamber’s
Community Development awarded
students
Education Committee recognized
• Further leadership potential in Benton County Kyle Scholler of Northside Elementary,
$373,375
• Introduce progressive leadership skills in Tina Wallace of Kirksey Middle School, in the amount of
the Rogers School District.
• Convene young professionals to positively Thomas Williams of Heritage High School,
impact the community through NWA and Jim Brown of Joe Mathias Elementary
Emerging Leaders.
• Support education within our community. as EDUCATORS OF THE YEAR with the support of 95 donors
Academic Awards Ceremonies took place
The following highlights are from the Chamber’s in the Spring of 2017 for Rogers High School, Heritage High
2017 YEAR-END STAFF REPORT.
For the full report visit
School, and Rogers New Technology High School where
IMPACTPOSSIBLE.COM/VOICE 987 Students were awarded for academic achievement
19 Rogers area high
school students completed the
LEADERSHIP BENTON COUNTY
ARVEST FIRST LEADERSHIP re-launched in August of 2017 and
class, where they became more knowledgeable 30 Participants are set to graduate
and engaged in their community from LBC Class 15 in May 2018
August 9:
August 11:
More than 1,000 Rogers Public School August 17: August 30:
A group of more than 320 young
administrators and teachers gathered “Networking with a Purpose” was Visit Rogers, the Destination
professionals filled Record
at Rogers High School for the hosted by the Northwest Marketing Organization
Downtown for the second
2nd annual Thank-A-Teacher Arkansas Emerging Leaders (DMO) for Rogers,
annual Ignite Your
Celebration Presented and the Rogers-Lowell launched its redesigned
Passion, YP Summit.
by Sam’s Furniture. The Area Chamber of VisitRogersArkansas.com
The summit was
Education Committee of Commerce at Acosta Sales to better serve the
formed last year by
the Chamber hosted its & Marketing in Rogers. needs of leisure
the Northwest Arkansas
annual Teacher Education The event featured the travelers, convention
Emerging Leaders
Fair & Appreciation Breakfast Chamber’s Business After Hours attendees, and a growing
organization and Rotary Clubs
presented by Hight-Jackson Associates, and showcased local non-profits. outdoor recreation market.
of NWA.
P.A. at Rogers High School.
TIMELINE: August 2017PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
12
The Government Affairs Division serves as the link between Chamber members and
local, state and federal government. In this role, the Chamber advocates for pro-
business and quality-of-life issues of importance to Northwest Arkansas. The Division
also provides outreach by keeping its members informed on legislation and public
policy that might have an impact on business.
STATE CHAMBER,
Worked with the
2017 Objectives | AREA CHAMBERS, MAJOR EMPLOYERS,
and INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVES to engage
Government Affairs
• Enhance the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber members on several pieces of legislation affecting the business
of Commerce’s capacity to effectively
influence local, state and federal legislation. community in Northwest Arkansas
• Establish regionalism to leverage economic
development for coordinated marketing, Staff played a significant role in gaining passage of
17 pieces of
messaging and advocacy efforts.
• Help Chamber members understand and
navigate the governmental process.
legislation
• Aggressively advocate for pro-business
public policy and issues.
• Pursue transportation infrastructure funding.
included on the 22-item
Northwest Arkansas Legislative Agenda advancing
The following highlights are from the Chamber’s
issues key to the continued prosperity of the region
2017 YEAR-END STAFF REPORT.
For the full report visit
IMPACTPOSSIBLE.COM/VOICE
Provided full-time monitoring of legislative
activities in Little Rock during the Regular Session
of the 91ST ARKANSAS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
September 8:
September 13: September 15: September 25:
The RoArk Group won overall
Chamber University held its Walmart Stores announced that it The Chamber launched its Northwest
first place at the 2017 Fall
Introduction to Quickbooks will build a new home office Arkansas Entrepreneur’s
Golf Tournament held
and Intermediate campus in Bentonville. WEST ARKAN Guide: Doing Business in
at the Lost Springs NO
RTH SA
S
Quickbooks seminars The project will be built Rogers & Lowell providing
Golf & Athletic Club.
to help business in phases. It will be useful tools for growing
They were the
a small business, and
O
owners learn both built on the east side
D
EL
L
IN
G
Bus OW
iness I N R O G E R S & L
winners of the p.m.
the basics and more of S.E. J St., bordered by listings of regional, state
flight, while Everett
advanced features of the Hwy. 102 to the south, and and national resources.
Buick GMC of Bentonville
desktop version. Hwy. 72 to the north.
won the a.m. flight.
TIMELINE: September 2017PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
13
Staff maintained a greater than Worked with
100%
attendance rate during the
Congressman Steve Womack
to coordinate meetings of the Arkansas
Federal Delegation and Congressional
2017 MEETING OF Leaders, hosted by the Congressman
THE ARKANSAS in Rogers and Washington, D.C. on
International Trade Commission
GENERAL ASSEMBLY activities affecting manufacturers in
Rogers and across Arkansas
Attended theRegional Government Affairs Conference
sponsored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce held in
Planned and coordinated the
2017
Chicago where information regarding effective targeting and advocacy
through social media channels was discussed
Worked with area legislators to pass Worked with the State Chamber
major legislation on developing and legislators to achieve up to
Washington
D.C. Fly-in
REGIONAL 12 million dollars
CAREER in additional funding for for the
workforce training through excess Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce,
CENTERS state scholarship lottery funds the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber
to provide opportunities for students of Commerce, and the Siloam Springs
seeking workforce training and
industry recognized certifications Chamber of Commerce
October 4:
October 4: October 13: October 17:
Benton County Judge Barry
The Northwest Arkansas Fall The Chamber’s first-ever Sporting The 2017 Chamber Night
Moehring presided over ceremonies
Job Fair presented by Home Clays Classic, presented by Cabela’s, Reception at the Rogers School
honoring the rehabilitation
Instead Senior Care and was held at Gunsmoke Board of Education was
and reopening of the
Glad Manufacturing Sporting Clays in Garfield. held at the District
Historic War Eagle
Company was held More than 100 shooters Administration
Bridge. Lieutenant
at Frisco Station Mall showed up to “golf with a Office in Rogers.
Governor, Tim Griffin
helping connect job shotgun” and network “on Members enjoyed
and Arkansas Highway
seekers to employment the range.” Participants the opportunity to
Commission Chairman,
opportunities. A total of received a continental meet administrators
Dick Trammel, also spoke at
50 companies exhibited to over breakfast, lunch, snacks, ammo, and board members.
the ceremony and participated in
300 attendees. goodie bags and beverages.
the ribbon cutting.
TIMELINE: October 2017PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
14
Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL) exists to engage and connect
Northwest Arkansas young professionals through personal and professional
development experiences.
Sustainability Crew: This crew is focused on increasing
sustainability in Northwest Arkansas and diverting recyclable
material out of the landfill. In 2017, this crew had volunteers work
2017 Objectives | several events such as the Boys and Girls Club of Benton County
Golf Tournament, WorkMatters, LeaderCast, Roots Festival, and The Botanical Garden of the
NWA Emerging Leaders Ozarks to make all their events waste free. The crew also created two mini-series, Sustainable
Solutions and Maintainable Living 101. These were designed to inform and educate the young
• Engage new or young business professional on the best practices to live a sustainable life.
professionals in the region with
professional development programs that Leadership Crew: This crew develops a leadership pool and links
focus on volunteerism, leadership skills ready, willing and able emerging talent to organizations, public and
private boards and commissions and areas of leadership needed
development and board service.
to benefit the community. In 2017, this crew held two Board Service
• Increase membership and become more Certification seminars to prepare attendees to serve on non-profit boards and commissions.
regionally diverse by partnering with
other community leadership development Greenways and Trails Crew: Links parks, trails and people;
organizations to invite new members from to provide, protect, develop and maintain parks, greenways and
across the region. trails throughout the community: and to promote public awareness
of the benefits of green space. In 2017, the crew worked to produce
the fourth annual Rogers Cycling Festival which promotes access to cycling and supports the
Community Bike Program as well as other local cycling Non-profits such as Pedal It Forward.
The following highlights are from the Chamber’s Political & Government Affairs Crew: A non-partisan
2017 YEAR-END STAFF REPORT. program intended to assess current political issues and
opportunities; educate on political and government
For the full report visit
processes; and engage and encourage participation
IMPACTPOSSIBLE.COM/VOICE in local, state, and federal government. In 2017, this crew hosted the non-partisan Ready to Run
program designed to answer all questions about what it takes to run for political office.
Community Enrichment Crew: Provides avenues for
dialogue and education about community issues as well
as opportunities to become engaged in projects that will
enrich the region. This crew offers an avenue for members
with ideas that do not fit within existing crews an opportunity to use this crew as a platform for any
project or program that could benefit the community.
November 3: November 9:
The quest for answers and November 28:
The Chamber helped Downtown November 10:
a context for predicting the The newest Chamber program, Hustle
Rogers launch and promote its The Chamber’s 8th annual
Chamber’s future was part of in Heels – Ladies Lead NWA, was
first-ever Art on the Bricks, a Bowling for Business was
the annual Board Retreat inspired by the Small Business
monthly art walk occurring held at the Rogers
hosted by Mercy Council. A “Kick Off Your
on the second Thursday Bowling Center. The
Northwest Arkansas, Heels” networking event
of each month. Shops, highest scoring
and the conversation was held in Downtown
restaurants, bars, team was American
will continue onward Rogers. Over 150
nonprofits and service Standard Foundation
in 2018 with members businesswomen from
providers hosted guest Repair. The best
who represent a diverse across the region attended to
artists, and showcased the work t-shirt design went to
mix of generations. The journey celebrate the launch and provide
of artists and musicians from across Benchmark Group.
towards Chamber 3.0 has begun. input for 2018 programming.
Northwest Arkansas.
TIMELINE: November 2017PAGE
2017 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2018
15
NWAEL held two NWAEL in Conjunction with Rotary Clubs
across Northwest Arkansas hosted
the 2nd annual
NWA YOUNG
seminars in 2017 with a total of
60 participants
PROFESSIONALS
NWAEL membership rose SUMMIT
by 130 MEMBERS in 2017 to
905 TOTAL MEMBERS ROGERS CYCLING NWAEL held the 4TH ANNUAL Over 350 Young Professionals
attended this year’s event
FESTIVAL
3
NWAEL Held
with 650 participants
competing in NINE DIFFERENT
EVENTS . The Festival raised over
$12,000 NWAEL Sustainability Crew launched
Connect for local cycling non-profit
organizations two new mini-series:
Sustainable
events with a total of
Ready to Run, Solutions
85 attendees
Held
a non-partisan political training seminar. &
Connect is an informal event that allows members and
potential members the opportunity to connect with
Over
young professionals
125 Maintainable
Living 101
Between the two series,
8 seminars were held,
others, connect with the organization, and connect with
Northwest Arkansas
interested in running for political office attended 250 attendees
with a total of
this half-day seminar in 2017
December 13:
December 1: December 12: Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport
December 31:
The Chamber recognized Rogers Public Schools Authority approved spending
The Chamber closed
the 2017 committee conducted a up to $200,000 to hire an
out 2017 with
chairs and outgoing groundbreaking executive consultant to
a total of 2,171
board members at the for its 17th review XNA’s organizational
member businesses,
Board Reception held elementary school structure and recruit a CEO.
representing 3,725
before the Chamber’s located at 3131 W. The board also approved a
individual members.
Holiday Open House. Garrett Rd. in Rogers. 2018 budget that reflects a 22
percent rate cut for carriers.
TIMELINE: December 2017317 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, Arkansas.
POSTMASTER send address changes to:
ROGERS-LOWELL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER,
317 West Walnut, Rogers, AR 72756.
Rogers Chamber Office
317 West Walnut Street
Rogers, Arkansas 72756
479-636-1240
Lowell Chamber Office
506 Enterprise Drive, Ste. 102
Lowell, Arkansas 72745
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