ANNUAL REPORT 2010

ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER/AIA ANNUAL REPORT 2010 1

ANNUAL REPORT2010

2 ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER/AIA ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Simmons First would like to congratulate Ed Drilling on being elected Chairman

of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce. He was named President of the

Arkansas Division of AT&T in 2002 and continues to hold that post.

Ed started his career at the Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in 1979. He

has served in various operations positions and on numerous boards over the last

30 years. In 2003, he received the Pinnacle Award from the Little Rock Chamber of

Commerce, the highest honor the chamber gives for service to the community.

Congratulations once again Ed, on this most prestigious honor.

The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas is the

leading voice for business at the State Capitol and serves as the primary business

advocate on all issues affecting Arkansas employers.

MEMBER FDIC / SINCE 1903

SIMMONSFIRST.COM / SINCE 1903

SIMMONSFIRST.COM / SINCE 1903

simmonsfirst.com

Congratulations Ed Drilling!

Ed Drilling


State Chamber/AIA Staff

TABLE Of CONTENTS

Our Leadership 4 – 7

Governmental Affairs 8 – 14

Committees 15

Continued Success and New Initatives in 2010 16 – 23

Marketing/Sales/Outreach 24 – 27

Leadership Arkansas 28 – 31

Pinnacle Program Members 32 – 33

New Members 34

Thanks to Our Sponsors 35

Governor’s Quality Award Program 36 – 37

Affiliate Organizations 38

Joanne DouglasAdministrative Assistant

Randy ZookPresident & CEO

Deb MathisManager, Scheduling & Events

Kenneth R. Hall, J.D.Executive Vice President

Susie Marks, CCESenior Vice President - Programs

Angela DeLille Director of Governmental Affairs

Jeff Thatcher Director of Communications

Bill Watson Sales Representative

Marcus TurleyMembership Development Representative

Sue Weatter Executive Director, Governor’s Quality Award Program


Executive CommitteeArkansas State Chamber of Commerce Officers

OUR LEAdERSHIP

Ex-Officio

Associated Industries of Arkansas Officers

Chairman of the Board:

Ed DrillingAT&T Arkansas

Vice Chairman:

George WheatleyWaste Management of Arkansas

Vice Chairman:

Mike CallanArkansas Oklahoma Gas Corporation

Vice Chairman:

Gary HeadSignature Bank of Arkansas

Vice Chairman:

Maggie SansWal-Mart Stores Inc.

Past Chairman of the Board:

Hugh McDonaldEntergy Arkansas, Inc.

Treasurer State Chamber/AIA:

Phillip BaldwinSouthern Bancorp, Inc.(Retired)

Chairman of the Board:

Bill HannahNabholz Construction Corporation


Ray DillonDeltic Timber Corporation

Bob LambBob Lamb Consultant

Raymond M. BurnsRogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce


Benny BakerInternational Paper Container Division

Vice Chairman:

Ken KimbroTyson Foods, Inc.

Vice Chairman:

Bill J. ReedRiceland Foods Inc.

Vice Chairman:

Steve M. CousinsLion Oil Company

Vice Chairman:

Russell BraggOK Industries Inc.


Randy WilbournMartin-Wilbourn Partners LLC


Richie ArnoldConway Corporation

David BartlettSimmons First National Corp.

Gary BeasleyE.C. Barton & Company

Arthur BeechFreight Systems, Inc.

Mac BellingrathAutomatic Vending of Arkansas Inc.

Paul BeranUniversity of Arkansas - Fort Smith

Tad BohannonWright Lindsey & Jennings LLP

Walter BryantCenterPoint Energy

Kathleen CareyCardinal Health

Ed ChoateDelta Dental of Arkansas Inc.

Mel ColemanNorth Arkansas Electric Cooperative

Roger CollinsHarps Food Stores, Inc.

Karl ConnorBP America, Inc.

John CooperCooper Communities Inc.

Ed CoulterASU Mountain Home

Dave CronkHewlett Packard Company

Rich DavisArkansas Western Gas - Source Gas Co.

Carlton DavisWarren Bank & Trust Company

Kearney DietzArkansas’ Independent Colleges & Universities

John DreherCenturyLink

George EasleyWindstream Corporation

Steve EdwardsGES Inc./Food Giant

Robert EvansArkansas State University System

Jeff FoxThe Circumference Group, LLC

Grady HarvellAFCO Steel, LLC

Hank HendersonAmerica’s Car-Mart, Inc.

Al HodgeArkansas Capital Corporation Group

Tom HopperCrafton Tull Sparks & Associates Inc.

Dick HorneAmerican Insurance Association

Richard HudsonUniversity of Arkansas

Eric JacksonOaklawn Jockey Club

Joyce JudyArkansas Employees Federal Credit Union

Troy KeepingSouthland Park Gaming & Racing

Dr. Walter KimbroughPhilander Smith College

Benny KoontzKoontz Electric Company Inc.

Cheryl MartinURS Corporation

Charles MazanderMazander Engineered Equipment

Venita McCellon-AllenAEP Southwestern Electric Power Company

Mike McFarlandArvest Bank

Mike MooreFriday Eldredge & Clark LLP

Teresa OelkeCrossland Construction Company

2011 Associated Industries of Arkansas Board of Directors

Lester AllenCintas

Josh AllenAllens, Incorporated

David BakerFutureFuel Chemical Company

Scotty BellVirco Manufacturing Corporation

Lydia CarsonBalm Innovations, LLC

Pete ChristiansenDassault Falcon Jet Corp.

Bob ColemanColeman Dairy

Sam CommellaNucor Steel-Arkansas

Haskell DickinsonGranite Mountain Quarries

Karen DickinsonGeorgia-Pacific Corp.

Mark FeldmanFlexsteel Industries Inc.

Danny GamesChesapeake Energy Corporation

Roland GarlinghouseGar-Bro Manufacturing Company

Danny GlassFirestone Building Products Company

Leon HallTimex Corporation

Melissa HanesworthHiram Walker-Pernod Ricard USA

Charlie HarperPACO Steel & Engineering Corp.

John HarrisonCaterpillar Inc.

Roger HartsoughAustin Powder Company

Dan HaygoodArkansas Steel Associates

Trish HenryRussellville Steel Company Inc.

Randy HopperRanger Boats LLC

Graham HuffMartin Sprocket & Gear Inc.

Kent IngramRazorback Concrete Company Inc.

Ron KeenethBridgestone Americas Tube Business

Bob LangstonLangston Companies Inc.

Craig LichtyEvergreen Packaging

Larry LynnCentral Moloney Inc.

Patrick MathieuUnilever

Tommy MaxwellMaxwell Hardwood Flooring Company

John McFarlandBaldor Electric Company

Scott McGeorgePine Bluff Sand & Gravel Company

Steve MillerAlbemarle Corporation

Neal MunroAddison Shoe/NMF, Inc

John ParkeDemocrat Printing & Lithographing Co.

John PownallKimberly-Clark Corporation

Tom PriceChesapeake Energy Corporation

2011 State Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Leon PhilpotRich Mountain Electric Cooperative Inc.

Len PitcockCox Communications

Rob RatleyOG+E

MaryJane RebickOCE/Copy Systems

Reynie RutledgeFirst Security Bank

Michael ShelleyUSBank

Sam SicardFirst National Bank of Fort Smith

Dennis SmileyArvest Bank

Steve SmithVerizon Wireless -South Central Region

Jeff StandridgeAcxiom Corporation

Gary StephensonState Farm Insurance

Sandy StroopeBoat World Inc.

Frank ThomasStephens Inc.

Van TilburyEast-Harding, Inc.

Gary VoigtElectric Cooperatives of Arkansas

Duff WallaceFarm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas

Sam WallsThe Arkansas Capital Corporation Group

Ewell WelchArkansas Farm Bureau Federation

Mark WhiteArkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Larry WilsonFirst Arkansas Bank & Trust

Dave RingAmerican Greetings Corporation

Chuck RinkRemington Arms Company Inc.

Kerry RoemerNice-Pak Products Inc.

Tom SchueckLexicon Inc.

Tom SiebenmorgenLeisure Arts Incorporated

Paul SiedsmaConAgra Foods

Tommy SmithClearwater Paper Corporation

Melissa SmithMcKee Foods Corporation

Bill StobaughMurphy Oil Corporation

Alan StubblefieldSouthwestern Energy Company

Jimmy SwaimBryce Corporation

Mark Van DameMid-America Packaging, LLC

Jim WalcottWeldon Williams & Lick Inc.

Tammy WatersDomtar Industries Inc.

Stephen WeaverCMC Steel - Arkansas/Southern Post

Chuck WepferCameron

Matt WilliamsWeyerhaeuser Company

Glenn WoodsLockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control

Christina YarnellYarnell Ice Cream Company


2011 State ChamberEx-officio Board Members

Archie SchafferTyson Foods

Jim DavisGeorgia-Pacific

Luke GordyArkansans for Education Reform Foundation

Russell GunterCross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus

Dan HendrixArkansas World Trade Center

Stephen JonesJack, Nelson, Jones, Jiles & Gregory

Bob KellyQuality Awards Chair

Tom KennedyEntergy

Kurt KnickrehmRegions Insurance

Max KoonceWal-Mart Stores Inc.-CMI

Paul MeansEntergy

Greg NabholzNabholz Properties, Inc.

Mike ParkerDover, Dixon & Horne

Robert SmithAttorney at Law

Lynn TatumTyson Foods

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State Chamber LifetimeBoard Members

Oral EdwardsGES Inc./Food Giant

Jack MeadowsMeadows Enterprises Inc.

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AIA Lifetime Board Members

Buddy ColemanColeman Dairy

Bert ParkeDemocrat Printing & Lithographing Co.

Dan WoodsTimex (Retired)

Albert YarnellYarnell Ice Cream Company


Issues 2 & 3 Pass Resoundingly on November Ballot

“Because of your leadership and hard work, we enjoyed a great victory and were able to pass Issues 2 & 3 by nearly a 2-1 margin,” State Chamber President & CEO Randy Zook said in an e-mail to members of the coalition following the election

“In a difficult political environment, voters in Arkansas heard our message of ‘more and better jobs’ and said YES!” Zook continued “Our state will no longer be at a competitive disadvantage, and the people of Arkansas will benefit for years to come because of your work ”

GOvERNMENTAL AffAIRS

Lucas Hargraves discusses Issues 2 & 3 at a Small Business Council meeting in July.

“Door-to-Door” Regional Meetings Expand

The 2010 “door-to-door” meetings, held mid-August through early November, drew nearly 550 State Chamber/AIA members, state and local chamber leaders, community leaders, local business representatives and state legislators

• The meetings featured presentations on state and federal governmental affairs issues and State Chamber/AIA programs and events by State Chamber/AIA President & CEO Randy Zook, Executive vice President Kenny Hall and Senior vice President Programs Susie Marks

Candidate Forums Draw Crowdsduring the 2010 Spring Primary and fall General Election cycles, the State Chamber/AIA’s

Governmental Affairs Committee again hosted Candidate forums to hear from candidates seeking open and contested Arkansas General Assembly seats


2011 Legislative Agenda Developed, Shaped and Approved

during the 88th General Assembly, the State Chamber/AIA’s top priorities are to:

• Adopt a plan to return the state’s unemployment insurance trust fund to solvency

• Lead the effort to pass a complete sales tax exemption for energy used in industry and manufacturing

• Reduce or eliminate the capital gains tax

• Protect the education reforms passed in 2003-04

• Protect the legal reforms enacted by Act 649, the Civil Justice Reform Act, of 2003

• Protect the workers’ compensation reforms enacted by Act 796 of 1993

• Maintain the Electoral College to elect the President of the United States of America

You may access the 2011 Legislative Agenda at www arkansasstatechamber com

Mike Parker makes a point during the February Tax Committee meeting.

Kenny Hall provides a presentation on the 2011 Legislative Agenda during the Annual Meeting.

APPLES Reconstitutes to Successfully Halt Flat Tax Initiative

When a constitutional amendment ballot proposal was pushed in early 2010 that would have repealed all state-levied taxes and replaced them with a flat-rate consumption tax, the State Chamber/AIA moved quickly to reconstitute APPLES (Arkansans to Protect Police, Libraries, Education and Services) in opposition The Supreme Court agreed with APPLES and the ballot initiative was withdrawn


First-Ever Arkansas General Assembly Budget SessionThe Budget Session convened on february 8th and concluded 18 days later Although the State Chamber/AIA was not actively involved in any of the non-appropriation issues

filed during the Budget Session, our governmental affairs team closely monitored the goings-on during the 18 days the General Assembly was in session

Highlights of the Budget Session included:• The introduction, passage and signing into law by Governor Beebe of a Revenue Stabilization Law.• The introduction, passage and signing into law by Governor Beebe a Lottery Commission

Oversight Committee for review of rule changes; scholarship eligibility changes, and provisions for income tax withholding of lottery prize winnings.

• HCR 1007, which provided for recess at the close of business on february 25th and sine die adjournment at noon on March 4th

• Randy Zook provided testimony in favor of a proposal to eliminate the state’s capital gains tax during a joint meeting of the House and Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee

State Chamber/AIA Announces Support for Campaign for Free Enterprise

Recognizing the role free enterprise plays in stimulating and strengthening the economy at state and national levels, the State Chamber/AIA pledged support for the campaign to demonstrate their commitment to getting the people of Arkansas back to work

“American Free Enterprise. Dream Big.” is the U S Chamber of Commerce’s comprehensive, multi-year campaign to support free enterprise through national advertising; grassroots advocacy; citizen, community, and youth engagement; and research and ideas leadership There is a Free Enterprise Arkansas link on our web site

“We are honored to join forces with this campaign to promote the critical role our free enterprise system plays in creating jobs and economic growth,” said Randy Zook “The free enterprise system has the ability to revive our economy by creating an environment that supports competition and

innovation as a means to fuel job growth Arkansas business leaders and entrepreneurs are already working to identify innovative ways to put more Americans to work and will continue to do so in the coming years ”


State Chamber/AIA Again Partners with Arkansas Farm Bureau to Present “How to Win an Election Seminar”

The two-day seminar was held January 26-27 at the State Chamber/AIA

Attendees learned:• How to successfully announce the candidacy• How to select a campaign theme and key issues• How to identify and target voters• The overall campaign structure• volunteer recruitment and coordination• Budget Preparation• fundraising and• Working with the mediaThe seminar was developed by the American

farm Bureau with the help of professional political consultants and staff members of the democratic and Republican parties videotaping, a case study and a computer simulation allowed attendees to test techniques, tools and methods The State Chamber and Arkansas Farm Bureau held

another “How to Win an Election Seminar” in January.

State Chamber/AIA members and local chamber leaders with U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln at her office in Washington D.C.

Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) Mobilizes Opposition


Unemployment Insurance Trust FundThe trust fund that pays Unemployment Insurance (UI) claims became insolvent in March 2009

due to the recession Since then, Arkansas has been required to borrow money from the federal government to pay UI claims As of december 31, 2010, the state had borrowed $330 9 million from the federal government The projection was for the state to be in debt $390 9 million by december 31, 2011; for december 31, 2012, the projection is $436 3 million; and for december 31, 2012, the projection is for $449 7 million

All of this debt will need to be paid back with interest that is scheduled to begin accruing at the rate of 4 09 percent in 2011

To address this deficit in the UI Trust Fund, the State Chamber/AIA UI Committee developed a plan, which was subsequently approved by our boards and executive committee The plan included an increase in the taxable wage bases, coupled with some significant reductions in the state’s UI benefits. Randy Zook and Kenny Hall made several presentations throughout Arkansas in regard to

this problem Negotiations on UI issues

with labor for the 2011 Legislative Session were unsuccessful for the 2011 Legislative Session We encountered legislative resistance to the increased cost to business and Congress blocked states from making cuts in benefits. We continue to explore new changes in benefits that might generate similar annual savings without violating the federal prohibition on benefit amount reductions.

Lynn Tatum makes a point at an Unemployment Insurance Committee Meeting in February.

Meetings Held With Labor and ESDThe State Chamber/AIA held meetings with Labor on Workmen’s Compensation issues and

participated in quarterly meetings with the Employment Security division’s (ESd) Advisory Council during 2010

One of the State Chamber/AIA’s priority issues for 2011 is to protect the workers’ compensation reforms enacted by Act 796 of 1993


Luncheon With Congressman Rick Crawford

The State Chamber/AIA hosted a get-acquainted luncheon with district 1 Congressman Rick Crawford in early december 2010 in the Bob Lamb Conference Room for more than 75 attendees including State Chamber/AIA members and district 1 constituents

Crawford (R-AR), was elected in November to replace retired Congressman Marion Berry (d-AR)

First District Rep. Rick Crawford (R-AR) speaks at a luncheon in his honor in mid-December.

State Chamber President & CEO Randy Zook makes a presentation at the January Board and New Member Meeting.

Outside Legislative Conferences/MeetingsAs part of its continuing educational efforts to remain informed on

federal issues and issues that impact both Arkansas and other states, the State Chamber/AIA governmental affairs staff regularly attends and participates in conferences and meetings

during 2010, the governmental affairs staff participated in the following:

• National Conference of State Legislators in Louisville, Kentucky – President & CEO Randy Zook

• Southern Legislative Conference in Charleston, South Carolina – Executive vice President Kenny Hall

• Arkansas Self-Insurers Association (A S I A ) Spring fling – Kenny Hall

• Arkansas Workers’ Comp Commission Meeting – Kenny Hall

• Unemployment & Workers’ Compensation (UWC) National Unemployment Insurance (UI) Issues Conference – Kenny Hall


Policy Development PresentationsMembers of the State Chamber/AIA governmental affairs team provided periodic policy

development presentations to various groups and organizations during 2010 including:• A speech to the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Executives –Kenny Hall• A speech to the Arkansas Human Resources Association’s Ella Conference – Kenny Hall• Legislative Update presentations at meetings of the State Chamber/AIA’s Small Business Council –

Kenny Hall and Angela deLille

Kenny Hall provides a Legislative Update at the Small Business Council’s March meeting.

Coordination/Support of Other Organizations

As part of the State Chamber/AIA’s support of other statewide organizations, our governmental affairs team serves in various membership roles including:

• KIPP: delta Public Schools board member – Randy Zook

• Arkansas Environmental federation (AEf) (Ex Officio) board member – Kenny Hall

• Arkansas Society of Association Executives (ASAE) board member – Kenny Hall

• Arkansas Society of Professional Lobbyists active member – Kenny Hall, Angela deLille

• Governor’s Work-Life Balance Initiative advisory committee member – Angela deLille

• Center for Chamber of Commerce Excellence, President, Board of Regents – Susie Marks

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COMMITTEES PLAY vITAL ROLE IN STATE CHAMBER/AIA’S SUCCESS

Comprised of business leaders from member companies across the state, issue committees meet throughout the year to help identify and develop key issues that are critical to the future of Arkansas

The committees provide the State Chamber/AIA governmental affairs team guidance in understanding complex topics that often require a great deal of specific expertise.

The committees and their leaders include:

Education • Chairman: Luke Gordy, Arkansans for

Education Reform foundation• Co-Chairman: Greg Nabholz, Nabholz

Properties

Governmental Affairs • Co-Chairman: Len Pitcock, Cox

Communications• Co-Chairman: Robert d Smith, III, Attorney

Health Care • Chairman: Stephen W Jones, Jack Nelson

Jones fink Jiles & Gregory• Co-Chairman: Kurt Knickrehm, Regions

Insurance Group

National Issues • Chairman: Archie Schaffer III, Tyson foods

Tax • Chairman: Tom Kennedy, Entergy Arkansas• Co-Chairman: Jim Davis, Georgia-Pacific• Legal Counsel: Michael O Parker, dover dixon

Horne, PLLC

Unemployment Insurance/HR • Chairman: Russell Gunter, Cross Gunter

Witherspoon & Galchus• Co-Chairman: daniel H Woods, Timex

(retired)

Workers’ Compensation Committee

• Chairman: Lynn Tatum, Tyson foods• Co-Chairman: Max Koonce, Wal-Mart Stores

Arkansas Small Business Council

• Chairman: Al Hodge, Arkansas Capital Corporation Group

The State Chamber/AIA invites our members to become involved by serving on one or more committees If you are interested, please contact deb Mathis at 501-210-4212 or dmathis@arkansasstatechamber com


CONTINUEd SUCCESS ANd NEW INITIATIvES IN 2010

Shervani Wows Crowds with Presentations on Globalization

Dr. Tassu Shervani, the first speaker in the State Chamber/AIA’s Pinnacle Leadership Series, drew crowds in Little Rock and Springdale in late february with his presentation on “Globalization: Its Impact on Your Future and Your Business ”

Shervani, the Corrigan Endowed Professor at the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University, spoke on a wide range of topics encompassed under four markets: labor, capital, end product/customer and supplier/commodity

Dr. Tassu Shervani during his presentation on Globalization in late February

Ed Drilling introduces Tassu Shervani prior to his presentation on Globalization.


Based upon population, usable capital and technology, Shervani indicated three inescapable conclusions: the developed world has technology and capital, but not enough people; the developing world has people, but not enough technology and capital; and managing the potential interaction between the developed and developing world is the most significant challenge and opportunity facing political and business leaders

future challenges facing the U S , according to Shervani, include improving its system of K-12 education, increasing technology development and deployment, and dealing with immigration/trade issues

A large crowd enjoyed the Washington Congressional Dinner.

51st Annual Washington Fly-In/Congressional DinnerIn addition to the traditional Reception and Congressional dinner in May, the more than 200 registrants

also attended individual district events, a briefing by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and meetings with Congressional Delegates in their offices.

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Mike Wilson, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, and State Chamber Chairman Randy Wilbourn

Shawnie Carrier, Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance, and Becky Thompson, Arkansas Economic Development Commission

Rose Mary Jackson, ASU Beebe, and Senator Blanche Lincoln

Bruce Harris and Maggie Sans, Walmart Stores, Inc.

Brad Hegeman, Nabholz Construction, and AIA Chairman Ray Dillon

Ed Coulter, ASU Mountain Home, and Bill Reed, Riceland Foods

Bill Hannah, Nabholz Construction, and Dan Hendrix, Arkansas World Trade Center

51st Annual Washington Fly-In/Congressional Dinner


82nd Annual Meeting Draws Big CrowdNearly 500 attendees participated in the November meeting which featured:• A presentation by Bernadette Budde, Senior vice President of the Business

Industry Political Action Committee (BIPAC) in Washington, d C

• donnie Smith, President of Tyson foods, Inc • Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe• The presentation and adoption of the State

Chamber/AIA’s 2011 Legislative Agenda following the conclusion of the Annual Meeting,

attendees were invited to attend an Open House to show off the State Chamber/AIA’s recently remodeled office and meeting space.

Rep. John Boozman Senator Mark Pryor

Rep. Mike Ross

Rep. Vic Snyder

Ray Dillon, Randy Wilbourn, Bernadette Budde and Randy Zook at the Annual Meeting.

51st Annual Washington Fly-In/Congressional Dinner


State Chamber/AIA Elect New OfficersEd drilling was elected Chairman

of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Bill Hannah was elected Chairman of the Associated Industries of Arkansas for terms beginning on January 1, 2011

drilling is the President of the Arkansas division of AT&T Arkansas in Little Rock Hannah is Chief Executive Officer of Nabholz Construction Corporation of Conway

Bernadette Budde discusses “What the Election Meant for Business.”

Governor Mike Beebe and State Chamber Chairman Randy WilbournGovernor Mike Beebe makes a point during his presentation.

Donnie Smith of Tyson Foods was the keynote speaker.

Ed Drilling was elected Chairman of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce.

Bill Hannah was elected Chairman of the Associated Industries of Arkansas.

82nd Annual Meeting Draws Big Crowd


Arkansas Procurement Opportunities Conference Matches Buyers/Sellers

In an effort to foster business partnerships between government entities, their prime contractors, major corporations and small, minority and disadvantaged businesses, the State Chamber/AIA hosted the 2010 Arkansas Procurement Opportunities Conference on April 27 at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock

The event attracted approximately 40 exhibitors, 250 sellers of various goods and services, and 75 buyers, including public and private sector procurement officials. Buyers and sellers were matched in face-to-face meetings throughout the day

In addition to the Arkansas State Chamber/AIA, the following partner agencies and organizations participated in the event: U S Small Business Administration, SCORE, Office of Congressman Vic Snyder, Office of Senator Blanche Lincoln, Office of Senator Mark Pryor, Arkansas Economic development Commission, Arkansas Procurement Assistance Center, Arkansas Small Business & Technology development Center, Arkansas/Mississippi Supplier development Council and the Arkansas Minority Business development Roundtable

Attendees head to matching floor.

Buyers meet with sellers.


Small Business Award Winners Recognized During Annual Luncheon

The U S Small Business Administration Arkansas District Office named Mizan Rahman, the owner of ETC Engineers & Architects, Inc , of Little Rock, their 2010 Small Business Person of the Year during the 20th Annual Small Business Awards Luncheon in late April at the Statehouse Convention Center in downtown Little Rock

AEDC Director Maria Haley speaks during opening ceremonies.

Jennifer Bonds works the bullpen to match buyers and sellers. Maria Hoskins of U.S. Rep. Vic Snyder’s staff speaks during the opening ceremonies.

Buyers and sellers converge.

Mizan Rahman was named Small Business Person of the Year.

Arkansas Procurement Opportunities Conference Matches Buyers/Sellers


The event, which drew approximately 325 attendees, was hosted by the State Chamber/AIA and was held in conjunction with the 2010 Arkansas Procurement Opportunities Conference

Roby Brock, host of Talk Business, served as Master of Ceremonies for the Small Business Awards Luncheon and Bill Hannah, chief executive officer of Nabholz Construction Corp., was the guest speaker as part of the “Business Born and Bred” series

Keynote Speaker Bill Hannah, Nabholz Construction Corporation

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield President Mark White speaks at the January Board Meeting.

Board members and new members enjoy lunch during the January Board and New Member Meeting.

Networking for New Members

State Chamber/AIA New Member luncheons offer new members and new employees of existing members an opportunity to learn the many benefits of Chamber membership. New members also become familiar with the role of each Chamber staff member and get first-hand knowledge of the best way to maximize the benefits and services of Chamber membership


MARKETING/SALES/OUTREACH

Web Site: www.arkansasstatechamber.com The State Chamber/

AIA’s web site underwent a complete redesign that was recognized in October with a Bronze Quill Award of Merit presented by the Arkansas Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators

E-NewslettersThe State Chamber/AIA strives to reach the broadest possible business audience via its

e-newsletters • E-Business is a twice-monthly compendium of articles

chronicling our organizations’ events, activities, program, efforts and committees

• Industry Insight focuses on manufacturing and industrial news and issues

• Daily Legislative Update is e-mailed each business day during legislative sessions and outlines the day’s most important issues tracked by the State Chamber/AIA Governmental Affairs team

• Washington Watch concentrates on federal issues that have impact upon businesses

In addition, periodic Congressional Updates are e-mailed to members when major federal issues are being considered

Archived copies of our e-newsletters are posted on our web site


Membership Directory and Buyers’ GuideThe State Chamber/AIA Membership Directory

& Buyers’ Guide is a great resource for locating a wide variety of products and resources offered by the more than 1,100 member companies

Published annually, it includes listings of members, information on standing committees, and descriptions of products and services many companies provide for business development professionals

The Membership Directory and Buyers’ Guide garnered two awards during 2010: the 18th Annual Excellence in Communications Award Single Piece Entry presented by the Arkansas Society of Association Executives and a Bronze Quill Award of Excellence presented by the Arkansas Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators

Arkansas Manufacturers Directory

In 2010, the State Chamber/AIA published its first Arkansas Manufacturers directory A listing of all manufacturers in Arkansas by city, it is also a resource that provides practical information on different aspects of Arkansas business, industry, climate, attractions, business support, natural resources, geography, certain laws and tax policies and other items


Small Business Council Continues Growth in 2010

Under the leadership of Chairman Lydia Carson of Balm Innovations and Co-Chairman Al Hodge of The Arkansas Capital Corporation Group, the State Chamber/AIA Small Business Council hosted seven presentations to small business representatives during 2010

The Small Business Council Meeting at the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber featured Phillip Moore, a staffer with Rep. John Boozman.

Patricia Gonzales of the U.S. Export Assistance Center in Arkansas

Marcus TurleyMembership Development Representative

Chamber Staff Member Earns National RecognitionState Chamber/AIA Membership development Representative Marcus

Turley once again was nationally recognized by the America Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) as the Number Two sales person in membership sales dollars during 2010 for his accomplishment, Turley was honored at the ACCE Annual Convention during early August in Milwaukee, Wisconsin He also received the Silver Lifetime Achievement Award for selling more than $300,000 in membership investments – all within a 3 5-year time span

At the end of the year, Turley had taken over the top spot in the ACCE Sales Contest in the dollar sales ranking over two quarters and was fifth in number of sales


MED Week Meetings Held Throughout StateMinority Enterprise development (MEd) Week was celebrated during early September with a

series of events throughout Arkansas MEd Week is a celebration of the contributions made by minority enterprises and a chance to recognize and honor accomplished minority business owners and advocates throughout the country Minority business enterprises are made up of African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian American and Pacific Islanders.

The State Chamber/AIA, in conjunction with Arkansas Minority Business development Roundtable (AMBdR), worked with local chambers, universities and city governments to host events in each of the state’s congressional districts

Arkansas Career Readiness Certificate Program Reaches Significant Milestone

The Arkansas Career Readiness Certificate Program, of which the State Chamber/AIA has played an active role, has officially reached the significant milestone of awarding 25,000 certificates to job seekers

As of late November 2010, the state had awarded a total of 25,280 Arkansas Career Readiness Certificates including:

• 6,864 Gold (27 percent)• 13,864 Silver (55 percent)• 4,552 Bronze (18 percent)

Promoting a pro-business, free-enterprise agenda, preventing anti-business legislation, regulations and rules.

1200 West Capitol Avenue (72201)P O Box 3645

Little Rock, Arkansas 72203-3645Telephone; 501-372-2222

facsimile: 501-372-2722Website: www arkansasstatechamber com


LEAdERSHIP ARKANSAS

Leadership Arkansas Graduates Class IV and Begins Class VLeadership Arkansas Class Iv

continued its efforts during 2010 with sessions in Russellville, Texarkana, West Memphis and Bentonville

The chairman of Leadership Arkansas Class Iv was C Tad Bohannon, a partner with the Wright, Lindsey & Jennings law firm.

Leadership Arkansas Class IV members in transit during the Texarkana Session in March, which covered the South Arkansas Economy, Timber, Oil & Gas

Leadership Arkansas Class IV members at the Northeast-Delta Economy, Healthcare & Agriculture Session, which was held in May at West Memphis


Leadership Arkansas Class V A total of 53 individuals from throughout the

state were selected to participate in Leadership Arkansas Class v C Tad Bohannon, a partner in the law firm of Wright, Lindsey & Jennings LLP, is serving as Leadership Arkansas Class v Chairman.

Richard AldermanWittenberg, Delony & Davidson, Architects

Leila AlstonBaptist Health

Leslie BlackwellAmerican Cancer Society

dee BrownBrown Engineers, LLC

Lori BrownArkansas Children’s Hospital

John BurgessMainstream Technologies, Inc.

Tim CainAsh Grove Cement Company

Kathleen CareyCardinal Health

Pat CarrollCrossland Construction

Chris ChastainCrittenden Regional Hospital Foundation

Rhonda ClineAT&T Arkansas

Brooks davisSimmons First Bank of Searcy

Hunter GoodmanArkansas Coalition for Excellence

Clay GordonNabholz Construction

Robert GunnelsSouthern Arkansas University Tech

Eric HutchinsonHutchinson Financial, Inc

Blake JacksonCromwell Architects Engineers

felicia JohnsonColdwell Banker VCI

Steve KinzlerPolk Stanley Wilcox

Brian KratkiewiczCranford Johnson Robinson Woods

Jim LambertConway Regional Health System

Leigh Ann LammersSouthern Bancorp

Roberts LeeMeadors, Adams & Lee Insurance

Leadership Arkansas Class IV Graduates

Leadership Class V members (from left) Eric Walker, Ginger Johnson and Richard Williamson at the Annual Meeting.

Coby LoganDaily & Woods, P.L.L.C.

Andy MarshallFirst Security Bank

Sherrye McBrydeArkansas Affiliate of Susan G Komen for the Cure

Julie McCallisterEngineering, Compliance and Construction, Inc. (ECCI)

Marie MillerWilliams & Anderson PLC

dom MjartanSouthern Bancorp

david MooreFarm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas, Inc.

Connie NelsonArkadelphia Area Chamber of Commerce

Clay PartridgeFirst Arkansas Mortgage Company

Cathy ReidWal-Mart Stores, Inc.

John RobbinsDataPath, Inc.

Kelly RobbinsArkansas Independent Producers & Royalty Owners Assoc.

Melissa SimpsonArkansas Insurance Department

Robert SkinnerThe Bryce Company LLC

Robert SmithFriday, Eldredge & Clark, LLP

Sandra SmithSouthern Arkansas University

denise StewartGirl Scouts - Diamonds of Arkansas, Oklahoma & Texas

Mary WellsArkansas Department of Health

Cole WilliamsonAmerican Data Network

Whitney YoderFort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce


C O N N E C T I N G O U R C O M M U N I T I E S

dr Linda BeeneMartin-Wilbourn Partners

Talbot BentonMidSouth Sales, Inc

Phil BillingsleyArkansas Information Consortium (Arkansas.gov)

Stacy BlackardSouthern Bancorp

Roz BlaggArkansas State University - Mountain Home

Ryan BowmanFriday, Eldredge & Clark, LLP

Ben BurrisOrthodontics by the Fergu-Burris Team

Kirby CarlsonFidelity National Bank

Jordan CooperCooper Family Dentistry

Tom CoxFarm Credit Services of Western Arkansas

Andy davisNew Water Systems, LLC

daryl davisCromwell Architects Engineers

Matt DozierThe EAST Initiative

david ErstineSage Partners

Harold EvansWilliams & Anderson PLC

Raymond FrazierU.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln

Cheryl GarnerFort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce

Matthew GlassFidelity Insurance Group

Kat HodgeArkansas Attorney General’s Office

Osi ImomohSouthland Park Gaming and Racing

Les JacksonNucor-Yamato Steel

Ginger JohnsonG&R Foods, Inc.

Keith KlemmerArkansas National Guard

Leadership Arkansas Class V

Christina LittlejohnArkansas Symphony Orchestra

Peggy MaxellChesapeake Energy Corporation

Paul McAnallySouthern Bancorp

Susie NicholsonArkansas Tech University

dan ParkerIMWell Health

denver PeacockCranford Johnson Robinson Woods

Steve PercivalWashington Regional Medical Center

Amy PerrinSouthern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech)

Tim PickeringAT&T Arkansas

MaryJane RebickOce/Copy Systems

Kevin ReynoldsAFCO Steel, LLC

Scott SaffoldUnion Bank & Trust

Candice SmithWal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Isaac SmithColliers International

Liz SmithGreater Blytheville Area Chamber of Commerce

Karla StantonBridgestone Americas Tube Business

debbie StehlingFriendship Community Care

Katina StephensCaterpillar, Inc.

Travis StephensB & B Management Company

Chip TaulbeeArkansas Business Publishing Group

Lea TaylorWhat if Creative

Michael vickersArkansas Rehabilitation Services

Jill WagarNorthwest Arkansas Community College

Eric WalkerPhilander Smith College

Oscar WashingtonEntergy Arkansas

Chris WhiteSimmons First Bank of Northwest Arkansas

Richard WilliamsonEvergreen Packaging

Jeannie WinstonUALR

Andrea WoodsNabholz Construction Corporation

Leadership Arkansas Class V members visit during the State Chamber/AIA Annual Meeting in November.


C O N N E C T I N G O U R C O M M U N I T I E S

WHO WE ARELeadership Arkansas is a program designed to take a statewide view of the economic and political challenges that face our great state. Leadership Arkansas offers leadership opportunities that expand the impact of community leaders across the state. Created by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Arkansas, Inc., Leadership Arkansas builds a sense of statewide community by identifying and training individuals with the passion and commitment to become personally engaged in issues, programs and activities aimed at building a Better Arkansas.

WHAT WE OFFERTo build a strong, diverse statewide network of leaders with a shared commitment to connect our communities and to make Arkansas a better place in which to live and prosper.

HOW THE PROGRAM WORKSLeadership Arkansas’s mission is to build a strong, diverse, statewide network of leaders with a shared commitment to connect our communities and to make Arkansas a better place in which to live and prosper.

One of the many ways the organization is working to accomplish that mission is through its annual class program. Class members will be chosen to participate in a stimulating and thought-provoking educational program that consists of a series (six) of day-and-a-half sessions held in locations throughout the state. These sessions include programming on issues critical to Arkansas, leadership skills assessment, and relevant information on Arkansas’s history, demography, diversities and opportunities.

PROGRAM SCHEDULEFOR CLASS VI

Participants are required to attend at least 80% of the program sessions, including the entire opening session, which is mandatory. The 2011-2012 program year is tentatively scheduled as follows:

Class VI Retreat & Tourism Session September 18 - 20 Winthrop Rockefeller Institute Morrilton, AR (Mandatory attendance)

Session I November 2011 Arkansas State Chamber/AIA Annual Meeting & Legislative Session

Session II December 2011 Economic Development/Manufacturing

Session III January 2012 South Arkansas Economy

Session IV March 2012 Northwest Arkansas Economy

Session V May 2012 Northeast/Delta Arkansas Economy

Session VI June 2012 Central Arkansas Economy

Graduation June 2012

TIMELINE

Applications Due August 12, 2011

Class Selection Late August, 2011

Applicant Notification September 2, 2011

COSTS

Application Fee None

Tuition $2,000

Limited scholarships are available.

A program of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce / Associated Industries of Arkansas(501) 372-2222 • www.arkansasstatechamber.com


Apex

Summit

Peak

PINNACLE PROGRAM

New Pinnacle Members Announced for 2010

The State Chamber/AIA is pleased to recognize the following Pinnacle members who are new or upgraded their status for 2010:

Peak:

• CardinalHealth• deltic Timber Corporation• Welspun Tubular LLC

Crown:

• Energy Transfer/fayetteville Express Pipeline• Hiram Walker/Pernod Ricard USA• Lennox International• Martin Marietta Materials• Scott Equipment Co LLC• The Arkansas department of Workforce

Services

The Pinnacle program is an active group of member firms and organizations whose senior representatives provide financial support and leadership to the State Chamber/AIA Pinnacle members actively participate in our grassroots action network, testify before legislative committees when needed, work on State Chamber/AIA policy committees or lead the organization as board members.


Crown

GAS TRANSMISSION


Access Control devices, Inc (ACdI)

Adams Pest Control of LR Inc

Addison Shoe/NMf, Inc

AdP (Automatic data Processing Inc )

AdvantaClean of Central Arkansas

Affirmative Risk Management, Inc.

All-Storage Products, Inc

Alliance Productions

Allied Wireless

Alternative design Mfg & Supply, Inc

Ameriprise financial-Matlock & Associates

Aqua Contour Cutting (ACC Inc )

Arkansas Bag & Equipment Co

Arkansas Box LLC

Arkansas Commitment

Arkansas Concrete Cutting & Coring, Inc

Arkansas department of Workforce Services

Arkansas Elder Outreach

Arkansas federal Credit Union

Arkansas Power Labor

Arkansas Prevention Certification Board

Arkansas Protection Services LLC

Arkansas Scholarship Lottery

Arkansas State Employees Association

Arkansas Trucking Association

Armature Service Co Inc

B&C Bindery, Inc

Bank of America

Best Conveyors

Best Western-Jacksonville

Best Western duck Inn

Best Western JfK Inn & Suites

Best Western Sherwood Inn & Suites

Blanz Engineering & Environmental Solutions

Blytheville Sheet Metal Inc

B R McGinty Mechanical Contractors

Bradley Media LLC

Calpine Corporation

Capsearch

Catering to Go Go

Caterpillar Inc

Clark Exterminating Co , Inc

Clean Line Energy

CMI

Coalition for Arkansas Jobs

Columbia forest Products

Comfort Inn

Concord Specialty Corrugated

Conway Regional Medical Center

Country Inn & Suites

Cox, Sterling & McClure, PLLC

Cranbury Inn & Suites

Creative Graphics, Inc

Cromwell Architects Engineers

Crowley’s Ridge Technical Institute

Curtner Lumber Co

Custom Aircraft Cabinets, Inc

dAC Technologies Group International, Inc

diamond International

dickey Machine Works

doss Moving & Storage Inc

drago Supply

dWM Construction, Inc

Edward Jones - Alexander varela

Edward Jones - Chris Hughes

Edward Jones - Tommy Howard

Eli Lilly USA, LLC

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

The Empire district Electric Company

The Empress of Little Rock

Energy Systems Group, LLC

Energy Transfer/fayetteville Express Pipeline

eStem Public Charter Schools

Evonik Cyro LLC

first Tape & Label

firstStaff

Fraley Roofing, Inc.

freight Systems, Inc

funder America, Inc

Gates Corporation

George fischer Sloane, Inc

Goins Plastic Source Inc

Greenbrier Rail Services

Griffin Industries, Inc.

Harry G Barr Company

Helm Benefit Design, Inc.

Henry Hodges P A

HIPPY USA

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Hometronix

H T Watts digital drawing

Image Works Media, Inc

Innerplan Office Interiors

Innovative Power Solutions

ITT Technical Institute-Little Rock Campus

Jameson Suites Little Rock

Jani-King of Little Rock

JGP, Inc

JPMS Cox PLLC

KMf, Inc

L Cotton Thomas & Company

Little Caesars Pizza of AR, Inc.

Little Shaneyfelt Marshall

Lockeby & Associates, Inc

M & M Milling Inc

The Markham Group

Martin-Wilbourn Partners LLC

MBS Broadcasting Network

McClelland Consulting Engineers

McGhee Insurance Agency, Inc

Mercy Health Center, Hot Springs Community

Min-Ark Pallet Company, Inc

Mini Labels

Mitsubishi Power Systems Americas, Inc

Monsanto Company

Motor Appliance Corporation

Mundo-Tech, Inc

National Tree Preservation of Arkansas

The Nature Conservancy

New Water Systems, LLC

NLC Products Inc

North Little Rock Municipal Airport

N M Make Ready & Maintenance

Noble Strategies

Northwestern Mutual

Omega Solutions, Inc

Orthodontics by the fergus-Burris Team

Oxane Materials

Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce

P Allen Smith Associates, LLC

PC Assistance, Inc

Peneprime of AR

Phelps fan

Plasco designs, Inc

Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects

Pollution Control, Inc

Porter Sales

Power Technology

Premier Staffing, Inc.

Promotional Ideas, Inc

Pulaski County Learning Center Inc

R&R Creative video Production

Radiant designs Inc

Radio disney Group, LLC

Regions Claims Management

River City Mechanical, Inc

River City Tents & Awnings

River valley Solar

RK Hall Construction, Ltd

Russell Chevrolet - Honda

RxResults

Scott Equipment Co LLC

Sealed Air

Signs & Lines Graphic Arts

Snap-on Equipment

Sol Alman Company

Southern Wholesale florists

Subway development of Arkansas

Super 8

Southwest design & display

Techline, Inc

Thomas Engineering Co

TowMate, LLC

TruService Community federal Credit Union

Upper Right Leadership

vOX Global

Ward Construction, Inc

WCA Waste Corp of AR-Little Rock Hauling

Weiser-Brown Operating Company

Welspun Tubular, LLC

Wesco distribution, Inc

Westrock Coffee LLC

William Henry Asti, Architect

Women’s foundation of Arkansas

Wonder State Box

Woods Group Architects, Inc

Worley, Wood & Parrish P A

Wright Welding

Yabal Staffing Consultants LLC

Zark Aluminum, Inc

Welcome to the following new members who joined the State Chamber/AIA in 2010:

Nabholz Construction Corp. workers during the remodeling of the State Chamber/AIA building

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS


Acxiom CorporationAEP Southwestern Electric Power CompanyAerojet CorporationAffiliated Appraisers/Ferstl EnterprisesAlbemarle CorporationAlberto CulverAllens, IncorporatedAmerica’s Car-Mart Inc American Greetings CorporationApartment Hunters/Arkansas SuitesArcelor Mittal Pine BluffArkadelphia Regional Economic development AllianceArkansas Asphalt Pavement AssociationArkansas Association of Two-Year CollegesArkansas Automobile dealers AssociationArkansas Bankers AssociationArkansas Beverage Association Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue ShieldArkansas Capital Corporation GroupArkansas Chamber of Commerce ExecutivesArkansas Children’s HospitalArkansas Credit Union LeagueArkansas department of Workforce ServicesArkansas Economic developersArkansas Economic development CommissionArkansas Employees federal Credit UnionArkansas Environmental federation/Government SolutionsArkansas farm Bureau federationArkansas Independent Colleges & UniversitiesArkansas Manufacturing SolutionsArkansas Municipal LeagueArkansas National GuardArkansas Oil Marketers Association Inc Arkansas Oklahoma Gas CorporationArkansas Petroleum CouncilArkansas Procurement Assistance CenterArkansas Scholarship LotteryArkansas State Employees AssociationArkansas State University - BeebeArkansas State University College of BusinessArkansas State University SystemArkansas Steel AssociatesArkansas Tech UniversityArkansas Timber Producers AssociationArkansas Transit Association Inc Arkansas Western Gas a Source Gas CompanyArkansas World Trade CenterArkhola Sand & Gravel CompanyArvest BankAsh Grove Cement CompanyAssociated Builders & Contractors of Arkansas

AT&T ArkansasAutomatic vending of Arkansas Inc Baldor Electric CompanyBank of The Ozarks Inc.Baptist HealthBaxter Healthcare CorporationBentonville/Bella vista Chamber of CommerceBob Lamb ConsultantBobby Hogue & AssociatesBP America, Inc Brent Stevenson AssociatesBridgestone Americas Tube BusinessBudgetext CorporationCardinal HealthCargill value Added Meats-RetailCenterPoint EnergyCentral Moloney Inc CenturyLink Chemtura CorporationChesapeake Operating, Inc CINTASCity of Little RockClarksville-Johnson County Chamber of CommerceCoby LoganConway CorporationConway Regional Medical CenterCooper Administrative Service LLCCooper Tire & Rubber CompanyCox CommunicationsCraig douglass Communications, Inc Cranford Johnson Robinson WoodsCross Gunter Witherspoon & Galchus P C Crossland Construction CompanydBH Management Consultantsdelta dentaldeltic Timber Corporationdomtar Industries Inc dover dixon Horne PLLCE C Barton & CompanyEconomic development Alliance of Jefferson CountyElectric Cooperatives of ArkansasEntergy Arkansas, Inc Evergreen Packagingfarm Credit of Western ArkansasfedEx freight, Inc fidelity National Bankfinnegan & Company, Inc firestone Building Products Companyfirst Community Bankfirst National Bank of fort Smithfirst Security Bankfirst Security Bank of Mountain Homefirst Southern Bank

first State Bankflowers Baking Companyfort Smith Regional Airportfort Smith Regional Chamber of Commercefriday Eldredge & Clarkfuturefuel Chemical CompanyGar-Bro Manufacturing CompanyGoff distributionGovernment Solutions, LLCGuaranty Loan & Real Estate CompanyHanesbrands Inc -ClarksvilleHarriet & Warren StephensHealth Resources of ArkansasHempstead County Econ development Corp Henderson State UniversityHiram Walker-Pernod Ricard USAHome depotHot Springs village POAHutchinson financial, Inc Impact Management Group Inc Independent Insurance Agents of ArkansasInformation Network of ArkansasInternational Paper CompanyInveritas Research & ConsultingJacksonville Chamber of CommerceKimberly-Clark CorporationKoontz Electric Company, IncKutak Rock LLPLangston Companies Inc Lion Oil CompanyLittle Rock Convention & visitors BureauLittle Rock Regional Chamber of CommerceLM Glasfiber (Arkansas), Inc.MacsteelMcKee foods CorporationMcLarty CompaniesMemphis Convention & visitors BureauMetro Little Rock AllianceMetropolitan National BankMichelle Staging with StyleMitchell Williams Selig Gates & Woodyard, PLLCMullenix & Associates, LLCMunro & CompanyMurphy Oil CorporationNabholz Construction CorporationNational Park Community CollegeNewport Economic development CommissionNorth Little Rock visitors BureauNorthwest Arkansas Community CollegeNorthwest Arkansas Regional AirportNucor Steel-ArkansasNucor-Yamato SteelNWA Chambers of CommerceOCE/Copy Systems

OG+EPace IndustriesParker Solvents Company Inc Petrohawk Energy CorporationPfizer PharmaceuticalsPine Bluff Sand & Gravel CompanyPorocel IndustriesPulaski Technical CollegeRamsay Bridgforth Robinson RaleyRegions BankRiceland foods Inc Ritter CommunicationsRogers-Lowell Area Chamber of CommerceRussellville Area Chamber of CommerceSecuritas Security Svcs, USASeiz Sign CompanySimmons first National Corporation Southeast Arkansas CollegeSouthern Arkansas University TechSouthern Bancorp, Inc Southland Park Gaming & RacingSouthwestern Energy CompanySparks Health System Stephens Inc Stephens Production CompanyStuttgart Chamber of CommerceSummit BankTexarkana Regional InitiativeThe Center for Healing Hearts & SpiritsThe Heritage Company, Inc The Winthrop Rockefeller foundationTroutman Sanders StrategiesTwin City Printing, Inc Tyson foods, Inc U S Chamber of CommerceU S Small Business AdministrationUALR ASBdCUAMSUniversity of ArkansasUniversity of Arkansas - fort SmithUS BankVerizon Wirelessviskase CorporationWalmart Stores Inc Washington Group InternationalWelspun Tubular LLCWeyerhaeuser CompanyWhite River Rural Health CenterWholesale Beer distributors of Arkansas, Inc Windstream CorporationWinthrop Rockefeller InstituteWorkSourceWright Lindsey & Jennings LLPXTO Energy, Inc

The following members and organizations sponsored State Chamber/AIA events in 2010. Sponsorships included Leadership Arkansas, Lobbyist Luncheons, Washington fly-In and Congressional dinner, Small Business Awards Luncheon, Annual Meeting and “door-to-door” Regional Meetings

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS


GOvERNOR’S QUALITY AWARd PROGRAM

While other programs may focus on a single aspect such as leadership, strategic planning, or process management, the Governor’s Quality Award (GQA) Program focuses on helping you develop an integrated management framework that addresses all the factors that define your organization, its operations and its results. Utilizing GQA can help you:

• discover proven approaches to boost productivity and quality

• Accelerate your ability to improve your products, supplies, internal processes and overall capabilities

• Improve your ability to self-assess quality processes, identifying strengths as well as areas for improvement

Regional Self-Assessment and Applicant Training Seminars

• Provides training on use of the Criteria for Performance Excellence as process for self-assessment or writing an application for program award and recognition

Examiner Training

• Teaches analytical skills used to assess applications for award and write feedback report to applicant • Provides examiner unique perspective that contributes to the success of your organization

Challenge Seminars

• Industry specific seminars for manufacturing, healthcare and business • Provides seminars regionally throughout the state in partnership with local partners

Benchmark Tours• Applicants to the program can tour previous Governor’s Award winners’ facilities and learn their

best practices

Attendees focus on the material at a GQA Training Session in mid-March.

Volunteers serving as examiners in the program receive training.

Award Application

• Governor’s Award for Performance Excellence• Achievement Award• Commitment Award• Challenge Awardfor further information about the GQA Program,

contact Executive director Sue Weatter at 501-372-2222 Additional information about all opportunities the program provides is also available on the GQA website at www arkansas-quality org


Eighteen Organizations From Throughout Arkansas Receive Governor’s Quality Awards

Eighteen organizations from throughout the state were presented Arkansas Governor’s Quality Awards during the 16th Annual Awards Celebration for the Governor’s Quality Award Program on Monday evening, November 15th at the Peabody Hotel Little Rock Approximately 300 business and civic leaders from throughout Arkansas attended the celebration

• Taking top honors by receiving the Governor’s Award for Performance Excellence was the Tyson food Safety and Research Laboratory in Springdale

• The Achievement Level Award was awarded to: ARcare, Inc , Augusta; drew Memorial Hospital, Monticello; freight Systems Inc , North Little Rock; and Saline Memorial Hospital, Benton

• Organizations receiving the Commitment Level Award were: Community Health Centers of Arkansas, Inc , North Little Rock; delta Memorial Hospital, dumas; Garland Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Hot Springs; Ouachita Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Camden; Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia; and St vincent Health System, Little Rock

• Organizations receiving the Challenge Level Award were: Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care, Little Rock; engines, inc , Jonesboro; Mainstream Technologies, Little Rock; Rockline Industries Inc NWA; Southland Park Gaming and Racing, West Memphis; Stone County Medical Center, a division of White River Health System; and University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock

The awards ceremony includes four award levels of Performance Excellence (in descending order of qualifications): the Governor’s Award, the Achievement Award, the Commitment Award and the Challenge Award As well as the recognition, recipients receive an in-depth evaluation of their management systems and a written feedback report citing strengths and areas for improvement Industry-specific seminars were held last year for manufacturing, healthcare and insurance/financial services

The goal of the Governor’s Quality Award Program is to encourage Arkansas organizations to engage in continuous quality improvement, which leads to performance excellence, and to provide significant recognition to those organizations. Created as a not-for-profit organization, the program is dedicated to assist in building a strong infrastructure for Arkansas businesses That dedication is reflected in the program’s vision to contribute to the success of Arkansas organizations and the communities they serve The Governor’s Quality Award program partners with the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce

The Chairman of the Board of the Governor’s Quality Award program is Bob Kelly, Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer for Arvest Bank. Organizations and companies interested in participating in the program should contact Governor’s Quality Award Executive director, Sue Weatter with the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce by calling 501-372-2222 or go to www arkansas-quality org

A big crowd gathers during the reception prior to the Governor’s Quality Award Program banquet.

More than 300 people from across Arkansas attended the Governor’s Quality Award Dinner.

Tyson Foods Safety and Research Laboratory of Springdale received the Governor’s Award for Performance Excellence.


AffILIATE ORGANIZATIONS

Statewide OrganizationsThe State Chamber/AIA has expanded its presence throughout Arkansas by affiliating with the

following statewide organizations:

Governor’s Quality Award

• The Governor’s Quality Award (GQA) Program formed a working partnership with the State Chamber/AIA in 2008 and has an office in the State Chamber/AIA building. The organizations work together to accomplish the GQA’s program vision of contributing to the success of Arkansas organizations and the communities they serve.

• The GQA Program offers training opportunities for participants to learn how to use the Malcolm Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence to assess strategy and process alignment for increased performance Those that choose to apply for an award receive an evaluation of their management systems in a written-feedback report citing strengths and areas for improvement and are recognized by the Governor at an annual awards ceremony.

• This process is used by all types of businesses, health care, schools and government agencies, and all kinds of organizations, including non-profit.

Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE)

ACCE is a professional, statewide organization of Chamber of Commerce executives in more than 100 Arkansas communities as well as business and professional organizations interested in or allied with chamber of commerce work in Arkansas

• The purpose of ACCE is to enhance the professional development and managerial skills of its members; to keep its membership apprised of statewide and national trends that affect the membership’s ability to operate effectively within their individual communities; and to maintain liaisons with state agencies and business organizations including the Arkansas Economic development Commission, State Chamber/AIA, American Chamber of Commerce Executives and the U S Chamber of Commerce

The State Chamber/AIA is actively involved with services to local chambers including:• Association management for the ACCE• Strategic planning sessions• Personnel selection assistance• volunteer leadership training• Board retreats and goal setting• Board orientation

• New executive support• Governmental relations• New facility planning• Assistance with developing new programs• Assistance with starting new chambers• Membership development

Arkansas Economic Developers (AED)

AEd is an association of professional and volunteer economic developers in the state of Arkansas whose purpose is advancing, through professional and educational efforts, the quality of life in Arkansas by the development of employment opportunities through economic growth and community development

Membership in AEd provides an opportunity to participate in numerous activities that center around efforts to educate the economic developer in a rapidly changing field.


Focus on performance excellence for the entire organizationin an overall management framework.

Our proven methods will strengthen your organization, improveyour bottom line and increase your customers’ satisfaction.

• Jump start change initiatives• Energize improvement strategies• Focus your organization on common goals• Assess performance against the competition• Align your resources with your strategic objectives

Our standards are developed by the renowned Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award program. This means that our approach is regularly evaluated and upgraded with fresh insights.

• Apply for an award and receive recognition for your efforts and achievements at our annual awards ceremony. Those who apply to the program receive a feedback report of strengths and areas for improvement from a team of trained professionals who serve as examiners.

• Attend one of our industry-specific, regional Challenge Seminars• Receive training on how to use the Criteria for total self-assessment at an Applicant

Training Seminar • Participate in Benchmark Tours• Serve as a member of our Board of Examiners. Examiners can receive up to ASQ 3.6

recertification credits for examiner training and service as an examiner.

For more information, contact Sue Weatter, 501-372-2222 or visit our websiteat www.arkansas-quality.org

Let us show you how tomaximize your organization’s potential!


Affordable tuitionOutstanding facultyClasses when you need them — days, evenings, weekends and onlineQuality university-transfer curriculum and technical programs/coursesTTutoring and counseling servicesChild development centersSmall classesFinancial aid availableA convenient campus close to where you live and work

3000 West Scenic DriveNoNorth Little Rock, AR 72118(501) 812-2200www.pulaskitech.edu

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ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Documents

Transcript of ANNUAL REPORT 2010