1 2 Table of Contents

State Chamber/AIA Chairmen’s Letter...... 4 - 6

Legislative Accomplishments...... 8 - 9

marketing Accomplishments...... 10 - 11

Services to Local Chambers...... 12

Committee Goals and Successes ...... 13

Leadership Class I...... 14 - 15

Leadership Arkansas Class II...... 16 - 17

Washington, D.C. Fly-In and Congressional Dinner ...... 19

annual Meeting...... 21 - 22

Small Business Awards Luncheon, AEDC Reception...... 23

Affiliates, New Pinnacle Members...... 25

Pinnacle Members...... 26 - 27

new Members...... 28 - 29

Sponsors...... 31

executive Committee...... 32

board of Directors...... 33 - 34

State Chamber/AIA Staff

Paul H. Harvel Deb Mathis President & CEO Manager, Scheduling & Events

Kenneth R. Hall, J.D. Bill Watson Executive Vice President Membership Development Representative

Susie Marks Marcus Turley Senior Vice President - Programs Membership Development Representative

angela DeLille Sue Weatter Director of Governmental Affairs Manager, Finance & Member Records

Jeff Thatcher Henry Jones Director of Communications Northeast Arkansas Community Relations & Marketing Director

bill Paddack Director of Marketing Programs & Publications

3 Success in 2007

Over the past year, the Arkansas State Chamber/AIA has experienced record success and growth. During 2007, we recorded the best membership sales effort in our history, bringing our total number of actual accounts to 1,038 – compared to 642 as recently as June 2006. In addition to record memberships, the chamber also achieved record membership sales of $280,000. According to our research, we have enjoyed the highest rate of increase in the country.

There have been many other great accomplishments in 2007. We would like to take this opportunity to share them with you.

Inaugural Leadership Class

It is our pleasure to announce that 65 members of the inaugural Leadership Class received graduation certificates at a ceremony on June 29 in Rogers from and Class I Chairman Benny Petrus, Speaker of the House. Class II is now in progress; training and planning sessions all across the state began in October of 2007. This training will give these new members the tools they need to make a positive impact on the business community of Arkansas for many years to come.

Gov. Beebe and Leadership Class I member Joyce Raynor at Leadership Class I graduation.

4 Legislative Accomplishments

We enjoyed an extremely successful session during the 86th General Assembly on behalf of the business community. We were able to accomplish all of our priorities including sales tax reduction for manufacturers’ utility costs and a rebate procedure to allow recovery of excess local sales taxes. The State Capitol was a busy place during the 86th General Assembly. (Photo by Sammie Cox)

48th Annual Washington Fly-In

This year’s Washington Fly-In was a great success; once again State Chamber/AIA members got a chance to meet with their senators and representatives. We were pleased to have Governor Mike Beebe serve as master of ceremonies for the Congressional Dinner at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, . In addition to the Congressional Dinner, luncheons and breakfasts were held for each of the four congressional districts of Gov. Beebe visits with constituents prior to the 48th Congressional Dinner. Arkansas.

79th Annual Meeting of the Arkansas State Chamber/AIA

During the 79th Annual Meeting of the State Chamber/AIA, keynote speaker Tom Donohue, president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, addressed what he feels are the most important challenges that American businesses are currently facing, including retirement of the “baby boomer” generation, affordable energy, upgraded infrastructure and the current tax system just to name a few.

5 Hank Cox, vice president of communications for the National Association of Manufacturers, reported that manufacturing in both the U.S. and the rest of the world is alive and well. This is great news for the U.S. and for Arkansas.

Other business discussed included the naming of Michele Bond of CJRW – Northwest as a vice chairman of the Executive Committee and Hank Cox, vice president of first chairperson of the Marketing/Membership communications for the National Association of Manufacturers, Development Committee. talked about the vibrancy of American manufacturing during the 79th Annual Meeting. Also during the Annual Meeting, a new National Issues Committee and new Washington Watch e-newsletter were authorized by the Board of Directors. Members of the Executive Committee discussed the importance of these programs and how they affect Arkansas business. U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Tom Donohue was the keynote speaker during the 79th Looking Toward the Future Annual Meeting.

The cornerstones of this year’s success are governmental affairs, economic development and service to local chambers. These are also the principles that will continue to help deliver strong results in 2008.

Get Involved!

While we are pleased with our organization’s progress in 2007, our team’s focus is to constantly work to better business in Arkansas. We encourage all of our members to join committees and get involved. Our continued success is dependent on you. Let’s work together for Arkansas.

Sincerely,

Hugh McDonald Benny Baker Chairman, State Chamber Chairman, AIA

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MAG10072315.7.5x10.BW.indd 1 10/26/07 4:36:17 PM 7 Legislative Accomplishments

State Chamber/AIA Successful During 86th General Assembly

The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas enjoyed an extremely successful session during the 86th General Assembly on behalf of the business community. As we entered the Session, the State Chamber/AIA set five top priorities, and all were accomplished. The priorities were to pass a sales tax exemption for manufacturers’ utility costs, to pass a rebate for excess local sales tax payments caused by the loss of local caps when Streamlined Sales Tax laws go into effect, and to protect MANUFACTURING SALES TAX REDUCTION - Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe (sitting in foreground) prepares to sign into law Act 185, the Sales Tax previously passed reforms to workers’ comp, tort and education Reduction for Manufacturers’ Utility Costs. Looking on behind Beebe are laws. In addition, we were also able to pass legislation to address supporters of the legislation from left to right: Johnnie Bolin of the Arkansas the Workers’ Compensation Commission’s two trust funds that Good Roads/Transportation Council, bill sponsor State Rep. Allen Maxwell, J. are financially unsound. Below were our top two priority legislative Kelly Robbins of the Arkansas Forestry Association, Kenny Hall of the Arkansas State Chamber/Associated Industries of Arkansas, Larry Boccarossa of the efforts that are now law. Arkansas Timber Producers Association, Gary Sams of Green Bay Packaging of Morrilton, Brent Stevenson of Brent Stevenson Associates and Angela DeLille of Sales Tax Reduction for Manufacturers’ the State Chamber/AIA. Utility Costs

HB 1420, now Act 185, established a sales tax reduction for manufacturers’ utility costs. It reduced the sales taxes paid by manufacturers, which are classified in NAICS codes 31-33 from 6 percent to 4.5 percent on July 1, 2007. The tax rate will be reduced an additional one-half percent to 4 percent effective July 1, 2008.

Rebate Procedure to Allow Recovery of Excess Local Sales Taxes

SB 279, now Act 179, provides a rebate procedure for businesses to follow that will allow recovery of sales taxes paid in excess of STREAMLINED SALES TAX REBATE SIGNED INTO LAW – Arkansas Gov. current local sales tax caps. These local caps were eliminated when Mike Beebe (front, seated) prepares to sign the Streamlined Sales Tax Rebate into law as (from left) Kenny Hall, Tom Atchley, State Rep. Bruce Maloch, Mike the state’s Streamlined Sales Tax laws went into effect on January 1, Parker, Angela DeLille, Richard Weiss, Mary Cameron, John Theis, State Sen. Jim 2008. The passage of this act will save Arkansas businesses millions Hill, Ronna Abshure and Martha Hunt look on. The SST Rebate was one of the of dollars from what would have been an unintended tax increase. State Chamber/AIA’s priorities for the 86th General Assembly.

State Chamber/AIA Focuses on TWO KEY National Issues

The State Chamber/AIA is continuously reviewing a variety of national issues. During 2007, we focused on two key issues.

We led an organized effort to oppose H.R. 800/S. 1041, the Employee The State Chamber/AIA also joined the effort to pass S. 1348, which Free Choice Act (EFCA), which would have eliminated private ballot would have provided much-needed comprehensive immigration reform. elections to establish a union. Our efforts included many newsletter Both measures were defeated. We will continue to monitor these articles, comments in speeches made across the state, grass roots issues and others that affect the Arkansas business community via “Call to Action” requests, letters, personal visits and phone calls to the our Washington Watch, Industry Insight, Daily Legislative Update and members of Arkansas’s Congressional Delegation. E-Business newsletters.

8 Act 185 Sessions Draw Crowds to Five Arkansas Cities

The State Chamber/AIA hosted sessions throughout the state to discuss This legislation was a priority of the State Chamber/AIA’s legislative Act 185 and its emergency rules, which became effective on July 1, 2007. agenda. We supported legislation that sought a complete repeal of the More than 250 people attended the sessions held at the State Chamber/ sales taxes on all utilities used by all manufacturers and led a strong AIA in Little Rock; at the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce; at grass-roots effort to pass the bill. A complete repeal was not enacted, the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce; at the Rogers-Lowell but Act 185 reduced the state sales tax by 1.5 percent effective July 1, Area Chamber of Commerce and at the Donald W. Reynolds Campus of 2007, and will reduce it further by 2 percent effective July 1, 2008, for Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia. natural gas and electricity used by manufacturers in the manufacturing process. Eligible manufacturers are those in NAICS codes 31-32-33. State Chamber/AIA Tax Committee Legal Counsel Mike Parker of the Dover Dixon Horne law firm and State Chamber/AIA Executive Vice The State Chamber/AIA Tax Committee monitored and was active in President Kenny Hall led the sessions that provided information that the development of the permanent rules on this issue. attendees would need to take advantage of this tax reduction.

ACT 185 SESSION PRESENTATION AT LITTLE ROCK – State Chamber/ AIA Tax Committee Legal Counsel Mike Parker of the Dover Dixon Horne law firm in Little Rock provides a presentation on Act 185 and its emergency rules at the State Chamber Building in Little Rock. The presentation was one of five held throughout the state during June and July. State Chamber/AIA Executive Vice President Kenny Hall also spoke during the presentations.

State Chamber/AIA Establishes Permanent Presence in Northwest Arkansas

The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas has established a permanent presence in Northwest Arkansas.

Angela DeLille, director of governmental affairs, represents the State Chamber/AIA in the area, while still tackling the broader needs of the state’s business community.

DeLille, who has been with the State Chamber/AIA for five years, operates out of an office at the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce.

Because the main goal of the State Chamber/AIA is to address business at the government level, its headquarters are in Little Rock. But the State Chamber/AIA decided to establish a presence in Northwest Arkansas to ensure face time between chamber representatives and members in this region, DeLille said.

“We want to make sure we’re out there with our members every day,” she said. Angela DeLille

9 Marketing Accomplishments

Landmark Accomplishments Highlight Year of Success for State Chamber/AIA

The year 2007 was huge for the State Chamber/AIA. New records New Pinnacle members: Our number of Pinnacle members were set for total membership sales, new membership sales, nearly doubled during the year, going from 37 to 67 – an increase of membership income, new Pinnacle members, total revenue from all 30 companies that took their investment to a higher level. sources and non-dues revenue. Total revenue from all sources: Our total revenue from all We also graduated our first class of Leadership Arkansas and sources jumped 70 percent in 2007. recruited an outstanding Class II. Additionally, we conducted training Non-dues revenue: Our 1,000 percent increase in non-dues and planning sessions in more than 40 different cities all across the revenue was powered by the addition of 153 new advertisers and state to enhance our services – and, in turn, our relationships – with sponsors. local chambers and communities. The State Chamber/AIA was able to accomplish the record Finally, we kicked off a Total Resource Campaign, which utilized highlights listed above thanks to several efforts: volunteers from member companies to generate numerous sales of • Services to Chambers – The State Chamber/AIA provides memberships, membership upgrades, sponsorships and advertising. management for the association of local chamber executives – Total membership sales: We recorded the best membership the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Executives – as well as a sales effort in the history of the State Chamber/AIA, bringing our number of services to local chambers, including: strategic planning total number of actual accounts to 1,038 at the end of 2007. In sessions, personnel selection assistance, volunteer leadership comparison, that number was 642 as recently as June 2006. Through training, board retreats and goal setting, board orientation, new our research, no other State Chamber has had this rate of increase. executive support, governmental relations, new facility planning, assistance with developing new programs, assistance with starting new chambers, membership development, total resource campaigns and the chamber library. • Travels by Paul Harvel throughout the state – State Chamber/AIA President and CEO Paul Harvel drove approximately 51,000 miles last year throughout Arkansas making nearly 120 trips to all corners of the state – Northwest Arkansas, Northeast Arkansas, western Arkansas, eastern Arkansas, Southwest Arkansas, Southeast Arkansas and throughout Central Arkansas – and locations in between. • Locations visited – Those 120 trips included visits to Fayetteville, Bentonville, Springdale, Rogers,

NEW MEMBER LUNCHEON - A number of the new members who joined the State Chamber/AIA in 2007 participated in this board and new member meeting that was held in late August at the State Chamber/AIA offices in Little Rock.

New membership sales: Thanks to the efforts of our nationally recognized sales representatives, Bill Watson and Marcus Turley, the State Chamber/AIA generated $280,000 in new membership sales during 2007.

Membership income: Our membership income increased 56 percent.

10 Lowell, El Dorado, Blytheville, Osceola, Jacksonville, Jonesboro, Russellville, Fort Smith, Conway, Hot Springs, Arkadelphia, Stuttgart, Mountain Harbor, Magnolia, Paragould, Lake Village, Forrest City, Atkins, Walnut Ridge, Warren, Mountain Home, Pine Bluff, Batesville, Siloam Springs, Texarkana, Ashdown, Morrilton, Searcy and Marion. • TRC numbers – Through the end of 2007, our Total Resource Campaign volunteers had raised $90,445 through sales of memberships, membership upgrades, sponsorships and advertising.

These activities were crucial to our success in the 2007 TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN VOLUNTEERS – Total Resource Campaign legislative session where we were able to accomplish all volunteers select leads from a grouping of cards following a TRC Kick-Off of our priorities. Meeting in Little Rock. The Total Resource Campaign was just one of many efforts that the State Chamber/AIA was involved with during 2007, resulting in a record year for marketing, membership sales and growth.

Bill Watson, Marcus Turley Michele Bond Takes New Rank Among Leaders Position As Vice Chairman In ACCE Membership Circle Membership Development/ of Champions Program Marketing On State Chamber/ AIA Executive Committee The American Chamber of Commerce Executives Marketing is an integral part of achieving our goals and carrying (ACCE) Membership out our program of work. That’s why, for the first time, the State Development Division Chamber/AIA has an Executive Committee member serving as vice Circle of Champions chairman for membership development and marketing. program is designed to connect chamber sales Michele Bond of CJRW professionals and to inspire Northwest stepped up in and recognize excellence 2007 to assume this new in membership sales role and to help create performance. a marketing plan for our organizations. Her plan Bill Watson and Marcus will include acquiring new Bill Watson Turley, who are both members, retaining existing membership development ones, and identifying representatives for the State Chamber/AIA, participate in the program sponsors and Circle of Champions national sales contest. Results for the contest publication advertisers – are calculated on a efforts that are all vitally quarterly basis. important to the State Michele Bond At the end of the last Chamber/AIA. quarter of 2007, Bill and Building on successful Marcus ranked #1 and #4 efforts in 2007, she has helped develop lofty goals for 2008, in the nation and began the including: increasing revenue from existing members, maintaining an first quarter of the new 80 percent retention rate and reaching a $1.4 million dues base. year with the same ranking. Watson was recognized Bond’s strategies for achieving these goals include positioning the for his #8 ranking during State Chamber/AIA as the most powerful and influential business 2007 at the ACCE Annual organization in Arkansas; attracting and acquiring new members Conference held through innovative marketing efforts; and retaining current members in Sacramento. and increasing loyalty.

Marcus Turley

11 State Chamber/AIA E-Newsletters

Timely communications play a pivotal role in our governmental These e-newsletters are posted on our Web site – www. affairs efforts. Our newsletters sent via e-mail keep State Chamber/ arkansasstatechamber.com – along with a calendar of events and AIA members informed on issues and policies of importance to other information about the State Chamber/AIA. business and industry.

E-Business Newsletter, which is a twice-monthly compendium of articles chronicling our organizations’ events, efforts, committees, activities and programs.

Industry Insight, which focuses on manufacturing and industrial news and issues and is e-mailed the fourth week of each month.

Daily Legislative Update, which is e-mailed each business day during legislative sessions and outlines the day’s most important issues that the Arkansas General Assembly is considering.

Washington Watch, which concentrates on national issues and is e-mailed the second week of each month.

State Chamber/AIA Services Benefit Local Chambers

The State Chamber/AIA provides management for the • New facility planning association of local chamber executives – the Arkansas • Assistance with developing new programs Chamber of Commerce Executives – as well as a number of • Assistance with starting new chambers services to local chambers, including: • Membership development • Strategic planning sessions • Total resource campaigns • Personnel selection assistance • Chamber library • Volunteer leadership training These services are designed to address much of the basic • Board retreats and goal setting information one needs to successfully operate a local chamber • Board orientation of commerce. • New executive support • Governmental relations

12 Committee Goals and Successes

Your Participation Marketing/Membership Development Strengthens Arkansas’s Committee Business Environment Chairman: Michele Bond, CJRW Northwest

The Marketing/Membership Development Committee works to Committees play a vital role in the success of the State encourage membership development and retention in accordance Chamber/AIA. with the State Chamber/AIA marketing plan. Comprised of business leaders from member companies across the state, committees meet throughout the year to help identify National Issues Committee and develop key issues that are critical to the future of Arkansas. Chairman: Ray Bracy, Wal-Mart Stores These committees provide the State Chamber/AIA governmental Co-Chairman: Archie Schaffer III, Tyson Foods affairs team guidance in understanding complex topics that often The National Issues Committee identifies issues the State Chamber/ require a great deal of specific expertise. This equips our lobbyists AIA will address on the federal level. with insights and knowledge about an issue’s potential impact on our member companies and our state. Committees also support the State Chamber/AIA’s plan of action. Small Business Council Chairman: Lydia Carson, Balm Innovations The State Chamber/AIA invites our members to become involved The Small Business Council provides a forum to discuss vital issues by serving on one or more committees. If you are interested, of particular importance to the small business community, injecting please contact Deb Mathis at 501-210-4212 or dmathis@ the small business viewpoint into our consideration of a broad arkansasstatechamber.com. range of issues. Education Committee Chairman: Luke Gordy, Arkansans for Education Reform Foundation Tax Committee Chairman: Tom Kennedy, Entergy Arkansas Co-Chairman: Greg Nabholz, Nabholz Properties Co-Chairman: Jim Davis, -Pacific The Education Committee proactively advocates the interests of Legal Counsel: Michael O. Parker, Dover Dixon Horne business and industry as the State Chamber/AIA strives to improve The Tax Committee works to ensure a favorable business climate in education in Arkansas. Arkansas through analyzing tax issues, recommending positions and testifying at legislative and regulatory hearings on tax matters. Governmental Affairs Committee Co-Chairmen: Sammie Cox, AEP Southwestern Electric Power, and Robert D. Smith, III, Attorney Unemployment Insurance/HR Committee Co-Chairmen: Daniel H. Woods, Timex (retired), and Russell Gunter, Comprised of governmental affairs representatives and lobbyists Cross Gunter Witherspoon & Galchus who represent member companies, business associations and The Unemployment Insurance/HR Committee monitors organizations, the Governmental Affairs Committee monitors unemployment insurance and human resource laws and proposals, pending legislation and other issues of importance to the business negotiates legislative issues and reviews all related legislation. community with the goal of developing a consistent lobbying strategy.

Health Care Committee Workers’ Compensation Committee Chairman: Stephen W. Jones, Jack Nelson Jones Fink Jiles & Gregory Chairman: Lynn Tatum, Tyson Foods Co-Chairman: Kurt Knickrehm, Regions Insurance Group Co-Chairman: Max Koonce, Wal-Mart Stores

The Health Care Committee frequently plays the role of facilitating The Workers’ Compensation Committee keeps a close eye on the a consensus between employers and health-care providers as the state’s workers’ compensation laws and negotiates legislative issues State Chamber/AIA endeavors to maintain and improve quality with labor union leaders and reviews all related legislation. health care and find practical means of providing benefits and containing costs.

13 Leadership Arkansas

Leadership Class I Huge Success

The inaugural class of Leadership Arkansas was a huge success. Sixty-five graduates received graduation certificates from Governor Mike Beebe and Class I Chairman Benny Petrus, Speaker of the House, during a ceremony on June 29 in Rogers. Governor Beebe delivered the commencement address, focusing on leadership opportunities in Arkansas.

Leadership Arkansas Class I gathered in September 2006 for an Opening/Orientation Session in Hot Springs. Ensuing sessions included: Tourism at Mount Magazine State Park; Arkansas Government in Little Rock; the Timber, Oil and Gas Industries and the South Arkansas Economy in El Dorado; Agriculture, Economic Development and the Northeast Arkansas (From left) Governor Beebe, Lorraine Robinson and Economy in Jonesboro; and Arkansas Educational Challenges and the Northwest Arkansas House Speaker Benny Petrus during Leadership Arkansas I Graduation ceremony. Economy in Rogers.

Leadership 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.

MISSION: To build a strong, diverse statewide network of leaders with a shared (From left) Cynthia Dunlap, Governor Beebe and House commitment to connect our communities and to make Arkansas a better place in which to Speaker Benny Petrus during Leadership Arkansas I live and prosper. Graduation in Rogers.

VISION: Leadership Arkansas’s vision is to inspire Arkansas’s leaders to unite in their loyalty and commitment to our state.

The individual contribution of Arkansas leaders is multiplied by their collective strength and enhanced by the distinct and diverse nature of the regions of Arkansas in which they reside. The members of Leadership Arkansas are dedicated not only to their local communities, but to their statewide community. Leadership Arkansas is a unique program designed to promote statewide leadership.

Special thanks goes to the communities that hosted our Leadership Class I sessions, Hot Springs, Mount Magazine State Park, Little Rock, El Dorado, Jonesboro and Rogers. (From left) Governor Beebe, Michael Kaufman and House Speaker Benny Petrus during Leadership The Leadership Arkansas Task Force includes Debi Barnes, president of Turtle Cove Spa, Inc.; Arkansas I Graduation. Pat Lile, former president and CEO of the Arkansas Community Foundation, Inc.; Dr. Sandi Sanders, project director for the Fort Smith U.S. Marshals’ Museum; Steve Nipper, Bancorp South – Magnolia, and Marcus Guinn, U.S. Bank – North Little Rock.

We would like to thank all of the sponsors for Leadership Arkansas Class I: Acxiom Corporation, ALLTEL Corporation, Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation, Arkansas State University, Arkansas Western Gas, Baxter Healthcare, Calhoun County Bank, CDI Contractors, Chemtura Corp., a division of Great Lakes Chemical Co., Cooper Communities, Cross Gunter Witherspoon & Galchus, Deltic Timber Corp., E.C. Barton & Company, Claiborne Deming, president and CEO of Murphy Oil El Dorado Advertising and Promotion Commission, Farm Bureau Mutual Corporation, spoke to Leadership Arkansas participants Insurance Company, Golden Living, Lion Oil Co., Northwest Arkansas during a dinner at the El Dorado Country Club. The event Community College, Nucor Steel, Simmons First National Bank, U.S. was part of the Leadership Arkansas Class I El Dorado Session covering the Timber, Oil and Gas Industries and Rep. , U.S. Sen. and Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. the South Arkansas Economy.

14 Leadership Class I Roster

Bill McIntyre UAMS Area Health Education Center Southwest Alexis Alexander United Way of Union County Ken Monroe Trane Johnnie Bolin Arkansas Good Roads Transportation Council Andy Moreau Alltel Corporation Michael Callan Arkansas Oklahoma Gas Corporation Greg Nabholz Nabholz Properties & Sperry Van Ness - Jack Carney First Security Bank Nabholz Properties Lydia Carson Balm Innovations, LLC Lou Ann Nisbett Economic Development Alliance Jamie Carter Crittenden Memorial Hospital of Jefferson County Marvin Childers Arkansas Poultry Federation John Parke Democrat Printing & Lithographing Co. William Clark CDI Contractors, LLC Rodney Parks Merrill Lynch Carlos Corbin City of Little Rock Police Department Mark Piatt Emerson Appliance Solutions Wayne Croom Langston Companies, Inc (Emerson Electric) Rich Davis Bentonville/Bella Vista Chamber of Commerce Rob Ratley OG+E Kearney Dietz Arkansas Independent Colleges & Universities Joyce Raynor Center for Healing Hearts & Spirits Cynthia Dunlap Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism Lorraine Robinson West Memphis School District Heather Eason Arkansas Community Foundation, Inc. Paul Rowton GES Inc., Food Giant Supermarkets Tamika Edwards Office of U.S. Senator Blanche L. Lincoln Jeff Sandford Texarkana Chamber of Commerce Melinda Faubel AT&T Mari See Celebrate Arkansas Magazine/Team Dance USA Daniel Fowler Cromwell Architects Engineers Jim Shamburger Holiday Inn Express - Bryant Len Frey ASU College of Business Laurie Smalling Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Jorge Garcia Edward Jones Investments Jo Anne Smith Southeast Arkansas Cornerstone Coalition, Inc. John Gibson Morrilton Area Chamber/Conway County Brenda Stewart DeQueen, Arkansas Econonomic Development Corporation Takeo Suzuki at Fort Smith Frankie Gilliam ASU Delta Center for Economic Development Julie Thompson Arkansas Department of Education Nancy Hardman Ouachita Baptist University Calvin Tichy Simmons First National Bank Fonda Hawthorne Little River Chamber of Commerce Karen Trevino North Little Rock Visitors Bureau Diane Hilburn Bank of the Ozarks Linda Tyler Acxiom Corporation Phillip Jett Regions Bank Chad Vincent Baxter Healthcare Corporation Gail Reede Jones, MD Arkansas Urology Heath Ward Cargill Meat Solutions Donald Judges University of Arkansas Les Warren Hot Springs Title Company Michael Kaufman Triad Hospitals George Wheatley Waste Management of Arkansas Rachel Kremer Moore Stephens Frost Valerie Wilson Southern Arkansas University Tech Paul Latture Little Rock Port Authority Jay Wisener Arkansas Capital Corporation Mike Maulden Entergy Arkansas, Inc. Wayne Woods Cranford Johnson Robinson Woods

15 Governor Beebe Honorary Chair For Leadership Arkansas Class II

Leadership Arkansas Class II got off to a great start when Governor Inn Express – Bryant, Jefferson Regional Medical Mike Beebe agreed to be its Honorary Chairman. Class I alumni Center, Littler Mendelson – Northwest Arkansas, assumed the following leadership positions: Mike Callan with Moore Stephens Frost, Murphy Oil Corporation, Arkansas Oklahoma Gas, class chairman; Mike Maulden with Entergy Nabholz Properties, National Center for Toxicological and Len Frey with Arkansas State University, curriculum co-chairs; Research, National Park Community College, Rachel Kremer with Moore Stephens Frost, Tamika Edwards Northwest Arkansas Community College, Nucor Steel with Senator Lincoln’s office and Nancy Hardman with OBU, – Arkansas, Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion recruitment/selection co-chairs. Commission, Pine Bluff National Bank, Pine Bluff Sand & Gravel, Pulaski Technical College, OG+E, Southern Bancorp of Arkadelphia stepped up to serve Rheem Air Conditioning Division, Simmons First as Class II sponsor. National Bank, The Crescent Hotel, The Inn of the A Leadership Alumni meeting of Class I was held in conjunction with Ozarks, Tyson Foods, University of Arkansas-Fort a Class II Retreat in September at Mountain Harbor. In addition to Smith, Van Buren Chamber of Commerce, Warner organizing the Leadership Alumni Association, Class I members were Smith & Harris, PLC, Weyerhaeuser Company and involved in planning and implementing Class II sessions and had the Winthrop Foundation. opportunity to network with members of Class II. For additional information on Leadership Arkansas, please Other sessions held during the fall and winter included: contact Susie Marks at [email protected] • Government / Central Arkansas economy (in conjunction with or 501-210-4206. the Arkansas State Chamber/AIA Annual Meeting): Little Rock • Tourism: Eureka Springs

The graduation session is being sponsored by Harps Foods Other sponsors to date for Leadership Arkansas Class II include: Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Arkansas Community Foundation, Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation, Arkansas Tech University, AT&T, Arvest Bank, CenterPoint Energy, CJRW, Cross Gunter Witherspoon & Galchus, Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, Entergy Arkansas, First National Bank of Fort Smith, Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, Friday Eldredge & Clark LLP, Golden Living, Hiram Walker – Pernod Ricard USA, Holiday

Celia McQuiston, Rex Nelson and Sherece West at the Leadership Arkansas Class II Reception in Little Rock.

Joe Chacko, Stacy Sells and Stanley Hill during the Leadership Arkansas Class Markita Tyler, Barbara Osborne, Dorathy Boulden and Sherece West during the II Reception in Little Rock. Leadership Arkansas Class II Reception in Little Rock.

16 Leadership Class II Roster

Park Anders Jr. Budgetext Corporation Donna McDonald Arkansas River Valley Chip Ates Northwest Arkansas Community College Regional Library System Linda Baser Marion Chamber of Commerce Sue McGowan Paragould Regional Chamber of Commerce David Berry Arkansas Children’s Hospital Celia McQuiston Albemarle Brent Black Southern Bancorp Inc. Priscilla Merriman Girl Scouts of Ouachita Council J.R. Blackburn Pulaski Bank & Trust Jim Miles Covenant Medical Benefits Tad Bohannon Wright, Lindsey & Jennings LLP Joey Miller White River Rural Health Center Michele Bond CJRW Northwest Marshall Moody Arkansas Western Gas Company Karen Boston U of A Sam M. Walton College of Business Bruce Moore, Ph.D. UALR Department of Psychology Dorathy Boulden Barton Library John Nabholz Nabholz Construction Corporation Debbie Brainard Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield Rex Nelson Tim Bruner Lyon College Barbara Osborne City of Little Rock, Department Walter Bryant CenterPoint Energy of Community Programs Shawnie Carrier Cross County Chamber Len Pitcock Cox Communications/Arkansas Cable & Economic Development Telecommunications Association Joe Chacko Morgan Stanley Nan Plummer Arkansas Arts Center Dennis Cooper Moore Stephens Frost Jerry Rodgers II Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp. Debbie Creek Harps Food Stores, Inc. Thomas Rush Trane Ricky Cross Jr. AT&T John Rutledge Jr. First Security Bank / Crews & Associates, Inc. Scott Curran U of A Clinton School of Public Service/ George Shelton Jr. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Sturgis Hall Stacie Spandle Golden Living (formerly Beverly Enterprises) Kelly Davenport Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon & Galchus, P.C. Gary Stephenson State Farm Insurance Martine Downs Pollard Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Diane Tatum Entergy Arkansas. Inc. Elizabeth Elango Heifer International Lynn Tatum Tyson Foods, Inc. Robert Evans ASU Denise Thomas Arkansas World Trade Center Libii Fairhead Brackett Kennerich Architects Wayne Turney Nucor Steel - Arkansas Billy Francis Sr. Ouachita Technical College Markita Tyler ITT Koni America LCC - Danny Games Chesapeake Energy Friction Products Division David Garner Simmons First National Corporation Bill Waddell Jr. Friday, Eldredge & Clark Bob Gullett Jr. UAMS Area Health Education Center- Duff Wallace Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company Northwest of Arkansas, Inc. Holmes Hammett Jr. West Memphis Chamber of Commerce Sherece West Foundation Rebecca Hattabaugh Ledbetter, Cogbill, Arnold & Harrison, LLP Ruth Whitney Global Strategy Group Stanley Hill Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation Ron Witherspoon II Arvest Bank Kathy Holt Office of Governor Mike Beebe Rennell Woods City Youth Ministries, Inc. III Warner, Smith & Harris PLC Carol Johnson Arkansas National Guard Jill Johnson National Park Community College Brandie Jones Arkansas Committed to Education Foundation Jayne Jones Arkansas Tech University Tim Kirk South Arkansas Community College Rex Kyle Bank of the Ozarks Carol Langston Pulaski Technical College Todd Larson North Little Rock Economic Development Corp. Stuart Mackey The Hathaway Group Bruce Maloch Farmers Bank & Trust Company Stacey McClure Congressman ’s Office

17 PROGRAM SCHEDULE Participants are required to attend at least 80% of the program sessions, including the entire opening session, which is mandatory. The opening session is scheduled at the same time as the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/AIA Annual Meeting. Class III Retreat September 14-15 Location TBA WHO WE ARE (Mandatory attendance) Leadership Arkansas is a program designed to take a Session I Annual Meeting statewide view of the economic and political challenges October 13 & 14 Hot Springs that face our great state. Leadership Arkansas offers Convention Center leadership opportunities that expand the impact of community leaders across the state. Created by the Session II Tourism Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Associated December 4-5 Eureka Springs Industries of Arkansas, Inc., Leadership Arkansas builds Session III South Arkansas Economy a sense of statewide community by identifying and January 29-30 Magnolia training individuals with the passion and commitment to become personally engaged in issues, programs and Session IV Economic Development activities aimed at building a better Arkansas. March 26-27 Fort Smith Session V NE Arkansas Economy WHAT WE OFFER May 21-22 Jonesboro/Paragould To build a strong, diverse statewide network of Session VI NW Arkansas Economy leaders with a shared commitment to connect our June 25-26 Fayetteville communities and to make Arkansas a better place in which to live and prosper. TIMELINE HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS Applications Due August 15, 2008 Leadership Arkansas’s mission is to build a strong, Class Selection September 5, 2008 diverse, statewide network of leaders with a shared commitment to connect our communities and to make Applicant Notification Mid-September 2008 Arkansas a better place in which to live and prosper. COSTS One of the many ways the organization is working to accomplish that mission is through its annual class Application Fee None program. Class members will be chosen to participate Tuition $1,500 (includes lodging) in a stimulating and thought-provoking educational program that consists of a series (six) of day-and-a- Limited scholarships are available. half sessions held in locations throughout the state. These sessions include programming on issues critical Nominations accepted on-line to Arkansas, leadership skills assessment, and relevant at www.arkansasstatechamber.com information on Arkansas’s history, demography, diversities and opportunities.

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

18 Events

Delegates Address Congressional Dinner During 48th Annual Washington Fly-In

State Chamber/AIA members and Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Executives joined the Arkansas Congressional delegation and members of the delegation’s staffs for a reception and the Annual State Chamber/AIA Congressional Dinner at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Va.

Members of the Congressional delegation or a staff member provided remarks following the dinner. Gov. Mike Beebe served as master of ceremonies.

Maria Haley, the new executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, was also introduced. Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe visits with constituents during a reception prior to the Annual Washington Congressional Dinner. Beebe served as the master Other events included: of ceremonies for the Congressional Dinner. • A Third District Dinner with Congressman John Boozman. • A Third District Luncheon with Boozman. French Ambassador Jean-David Levitte was the guest speaker. • A First District Luncheon with Congressman Marion Berry. • A Second District Luncheon with Congressman ’s former Chief of Staff Ed Fry and other staff. • A Fourth District Breakfast with Congressman Mike Ross. • Thanks to ACCE for generously furnishing the Hospitality Suite.

U.S. Rep. Mike Ross visits with Little Rock Regional Chamber President and CEO Jay Chesshir during the reception prior to the Annual State Chamber/AIA Congressional Dinner.

Staff representatives from the Arkansas Congressional Delegation had U.S. Sen. Blanche Lincoln provides an update during the Annual State the opportunity to visit during a reception prior to the Annual Washington Chamber/AIA Congressional Dinner. Congressional Dinner.

19 20 79th Annual Meeting Features Tom Donohue of U.S. Chamber, Hank Cox of National Association of Manufacturers

The 79th Annual Meeting of the State Chamber/AIA featured Tom Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and Hank Cox, vice president of communications for the National Association of Manufacturers.

The Annual Meeting was held Tuesday, October 23, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock.

Donohue provided the keynote speech during the Luncheon Session to nearly 450 attendees and addressed issues facing American business.

Cox provided a presentation during the Afternoon Session. He told more than 200 attendees that manufacturing is alive and well in both the U.S. and the rest of the world. Hugh McDonald, president and CEO of Entergy Arkansas and chairman of the The State Chamber/AIA’s affiliated organizations also met in Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce, addresses the Noon Luncheon during conjunction with the Annual Meeting. the 79th Annual Meeting.

Affiliated events included: • Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Executives Annual Meeting • Governor’s Quality Award Banquet • Arkansas Economic Developers Board Meeting • Leadership Arkansas Class II Government / Central Arkansas Economy Session

(From left) Chappell Mitchell, Renell Woods of Leadership Class II and Clevon Young of Arkansas Human Development Corporation visit prior to the Noon Luncheon at the 79th Annual Meeting.

Maria Haley, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Tom Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, addressed Commission, visits with Ray Bracy, senior vice president corporate affairs th issues that businesses face during his speech before the Noon Luncheon at the for Wal-Mart Stores Inc., during a break between sessions during the 79 79th Annual Meeting. Annual Meeting.

21 Manufacturing Alive and Well, NAM Representative Says at Annual Meeting

Manufacturing is alive and well in both the U.S. and the rest of the world, Hank Cox, vice president of communications for the National Association of Manufacturers, told attendees during the Afternoon Session of the 79th Annual Meeting of the State Chamber/AIA.

The output of American manufacturing has more than doubled over the last 25 years to a total of more than $1.6 trillion, Cox said. In 2006, the U.S. produced more volume of manufactured goods than ever before in our history. Our country accounts for only 5 percent of the world’s people, yet produces 25 percent of its Dr. Walter Kimbrough, president of Philander Smith College (left), and Dr. manufactured goods. Shannon Fleming, vice president of advancement, prior to the Noon Luncheon at the 79th Annual Meeting. Standing alone, U.S. manufacturing would be the world’s eighth largest economy – larger than the economies of Spain and Canada and equal to Mexico and India combined, Cox said.

Manufacturing is responsible for nearly two-thirds – 62 percent – of all U.S. exports of goods and services. Of that amount, agriculture provides $60 billion yearly and manufacturing provides $60 billion monthly. The U.S. is the number two exporter after Germany.

Further, Cox said that manufacturing is responsible for 90 percent of all patents; providing three-fifths of all private sector research and development; accounting for 15 percent of real growth, more than any other sector between 2001 and 2005; employing 14 million people directly with another six million outside manufacturing; paying workers on average 23 percent more than workers in other sectors, and contributing $16 billion to the yearly gross domestic product of Arkansas or 20 percent of the gross state product.

Stanley Hill of Arkansas Farm Bureau greets Andy Miller of Arkansas Western Gas Co. during a break at the Annual Meeting.

Hank Cox, vice president of communications for the National Association of (From left) Johnnie Bolin of Arkansas Good Roads Transportation Council, Mike Manufacturers, shakes hands with Benny Baker, plant general manager for Watts of FM Corp. and Cathy Foraker of AT&T Arkansas share a laugh prior to International Paper’s Container Division facility in Russellville and chairman of the Noon Luncheon. the Associated Industries of Arkansas, following Cox’s presentation during the Afternoon Session of the 79th Annual Meeting.

22 State Chamber/AIA Hosts Luncheon Honoring Small Businesses

The Small Business Awards Luncheon was presented by: The Nineteen individuals, companies and organizations received awards Arkansas Capital Corporation Group, CenterPoint at the 17th Annual Arkansas Small Business Awards Luncheon. Energy and Sam’s Club. The Annual Luncheon is hosted by the Arkansas State Chamber of Other sponsors included Acxiom Corporation, Arkansas Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas and honors the U.S. Blue Cross Blue Shield, Arkansas Manufacturing Small Business Administration’s Arkansas Small Business Persons of Solutions, Arkansas Oklahoma Gas Corporation, the Year. The event was held at the Embassy Suites Hotel in West CenturyTel, El Dorado Chamber of Commerce, Little Rock and drew nearly 240 attendees. Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, Enterprise Rent- Arkansas Lieutenant Governor provided a keynote A-Car, The Heritage Company, The Office of U.S. speech on education, the recently concluded Legislative Session and Senator Blanche Lincoln, US Bank and Windstream Arkansas’s future. Roby Brock, the host of Talk Business, was the Communications. master of ceremonies for the event.

DISTRICT DIRECTOR’S SPECIAL AWARD FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP – Phillip Baldwin (center) of Southern Bancorp in Arkadelphia, a HOME-BASED BUSINESS CHAMPION AWARD WINNER – The late Aaron State Chamber/AIA Pinnacle Member, received the District Director’s Special Simpson (center) of Constantly At Work Productions of Little Rock received Award for Entrepreneurial Leadership during the 17th Annual Arkansas Small the Home-Based Business Champion Award from SBA District Director Linda Business Awards Luncheon. Presenting the award to Baldwin were Linda Nelson (left) and Arkansas Lieutenant Governor Mike Halter (right). Nelson (left) and Mike Halter (right).

Reception Held for New Executive Director of AEDC – The State Chamber/AIA co-sponsored a reception honoring Maria Haley, the new executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, in the Bob Lamb Conference Center. Other sponsors were the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Executives and the Arkansas Economic Developers. State Chamber/AIA President and CEO Paul Harvel introduced Ms. Haley as Governor Mike Beebe, former Governor and a large crowd of invited guests looked on. Also providing remarks were Kirkley Thomas, president of AED, and Mary Seymore, president of ACCE.

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www.chc-ar.org

24 State Chamber/AIA Affiliates New Pinnacle Members with Statewide Organizations Announced for 2007 The State Chamber/AIA is pleased to The State Chamber/AIA has expanded its presence throughout recognize the following new Pinnacle Arkansas by affiliating with the following statewide organizations: members for 2007:

Arkansas Chamber of Summit Commerce Executives (ACCE) Chesapeake Energy Cox Communications ACCE is a professional, statewide organization of Chamber of Commerce executives in more than 100 Arkansas communities as well Peak as business and professional organizations interested in or allied with Kraft Foods chamber of commerce work in Arkansas. Pathfinder Exploration, LLC Petrohawk Energy Corporation The purpose of ACCE is to enhance the professional development Semgroup, L.P. and managerial skills of its members; to keep its membership apprised Southern Bancorp, Inc. of statewide and national trends that affect the membership’s ability Southwestern Energy Co. to operate effectively within their individual communities; and to XTO Energy, Inc. maintain liaisons with state agencies and business organizations including the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, State Crown Chamber/AIA, The Arkansas Partnership, American Chamber of Acxiom Corporation Lion Oil Company Commerce Executives and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Albemarle Corporation Metropolitan National Alta Resources, LLC bank The State Chamber/AIA is actively involved with services to local American Insurance Murphy Oil chambers including: Association Nabholz Construction • Association management for • Governmental relations AOG Corp. the ACCE • New facility planning Arkansas Employees Pfizer Pharmaceuticals • Strategic planning sessions • Assistance with developing new Federal Credit Union Philander Smith College • Personnel selection programs Arkansas Farm Bureau Pinnacle Foods assistance • Assistance with starting new federation Corporation • Volunteer leadership training chambers Arkansas Western Gas Storm Cat Energy (USA) • Board retreats and goal • Membership development Bank of the Ozarks Corporation setting • Total resource campaigns Dynegy Suez Energy North • Board orientation • Chamber library Farm Bureau Mutual america • New executive support Insurance Company The Clorox Company Forest Oil Corporation US Bank Arkansas Economic Developers Glad Manufacturing/ Wright Lindsey a Clorox Company & Jennings AED is an association of professional and volunteer economic developers in the state of Arkansas whose purpose is advancing, The Pinnacle program is an active group of member firms and through professional and educational efforts, the quality of life in organizations whose senior representatives provide financial support Arkansas by the development of employment opportunities through and leadership to the State Chamber/AIA. Pinnacle members actively economic growth and community development. Membership in participate in our grassroots action network, testify before legislative AED provides an opportunity to participate in numerous activities committees when needed, work on State Chamber/AIA policy that center around efforts to educate the economic developer in a committees or lead the organization as board members. rapidly changing field. Levels of investment include $5,000 (Crown), $10,000 (Peak), $25,000 (Summit) and $35,000 and up (Apex). Benefits of Pinnacle Governor’s Quality Award membership include: recognition in State Chamber/AIA printed The Governor’s Quality Award Program, formerly the Arkansas Institute publications, e-publications and on our web site; special recognition for Performance Excellence, is housed in the State Chamber/AIA at all State Chamber/AIA events; preferential seating at State Building in Little Rock. The goal of the program is to encourage Arkansas Chamber/AIA events, such as the Annual Meeting and Arkansas organizations to engage in continuous quality improvement. Award Congressional Dinner; prominent coverage of Pinnacle members recipients receive an evaluation of their management systems and a in the annual membership directory, and networking opportunities written feedback report citing strengths and areas for improvement. with other high-level Arkansas business and industry leaders.

25 PINNACLE Members PEAK

The Pinnacle program recognizes the state’s outstanding corporate citizens – State Chamber/AIA members who desire to make a significant statement about their participation in Arkansas’s future. These leading companies are helping make the state a better place to live, work and conduct business by supplying the leadership and financial support necessary for the State Chamber/AIA to effectively represent the Arkansas business community.

Through the involvement and leadership of senior representatives of their firms, Pinnacle members actively participate in our grassroots action network, work on policy committees and lead the State Chamber/AIA on the Board of Directors. In doing so, these Pinnacle members provide resources necessary for our organization to achieve success while helping to shape the future of Arkansas and enhance its economic climate.

APEX

SUMMIT

26 CROWN

27 Welcome Arkansas Jaycees Bruce-Rogers Company ECCI to Our Arkansas Minority Budgetext Corporation Economics Arkansas Business Development New Members Caldwell Milling eDocAmerica Round Table Company Educators Book Arkansas Outdoor Camera Work, Inc. Depository Welcome to the following new Advertising Association of Arkansas, Inc. members who joined the State Campbell & Associates Arkansas Poly, Inc. Chamber/AIA in 2007: Consulting Edwards Arkansas Procurement Engineers, Inc. Engineering, P.A. Assistance Center CAREfully Catered, Inc. EGP, PLLC 1620 Restaurant Arkansas Research CDX Gas, LLC Elk Horn Bank & Trust & Catering Medical Testing, LLC Central Arkansas EMTEC - Engineering a’TEST consultants, inc. Arkansas Rice Growers Workforce Centers Management A-1 Daniel Moving Arkansas Workforce Corporation Central Arkansas Water & Storage Investment Board enVision Marketing Central States A/V Arkansas, Inc. AR-MS Minority Group - LR Manufacturing Business Council, Inc. Ad Craft Essick Air Products/ Chesapeake Energy of Arkansas, Inc. ARAMARK-Acxiom Champion Cooler Corporation Advantage Arquest, Inc. Executive CLA-Cliff Nursing Home Communications, Inc. Aviation Services ASCO Hardware Clean Smile, Inc. Management, LLC Advisor Alliance, LLC Company, Inc. Clearpointe Technology Executive Services, Inc All About Travel Inc. Association Allied Waste Services of Fundraising Coca-Cola Bottlers Exploration Professionals- of Memphis Geodesy, Inc. Alta Resources, LLC AR Chapter College Degree Planners Express Personnel Altria, Inc. ATOKA, Inc. Services Colliers International American Cancer Society B & C Die Cast Fairfield Inn - Comfort Inn Little Rock North Little Rock Background Information & Suites Airport American Insurance System of America Farm Bureau Mutual Consolidated Insurance Association Insurance Company Balcones Resources, Inc. Consultants, Inc. American Taekwondo of Arkansas, Inc. Balfour Printing Continental Association Bank Company Casualty Company ADC Manufacturing of St. Louis- Balm Innovations, LLC The Crucial Little Rock Branch Apartment Hunters/ Writing Group Arkansas Suites Barber, McCaskill, Jones, FedEx Corporation and Hale, P.A. Custom Direct Apollo Group, Inc. Fennell Purifoy Bear Kingdom Dynamic Information Hammock Architects Apple Spice Junction Vineyard, Inc. Solutions Company, Inc. Financial Arkansas Arts Center Bekaert Corporation - Daddy’s Deli Management, Inc. Rogers Arkansas Coalition Daisy Outdoor Products Finnegan Against Domestic Ben E. Keith Company & Associates, Inc Violence Dale Carnegie Training Bennett Davis First Arkansas Insurance Dardanelle/Russellville Arkansas Community Group LLC Foundation Railroad, Inc. First Bank Berryville Chamber of The Delta N.A. Davis & Garratt Arkansas Development of Commerce Finance Authority Insurance Group, Inc. First Capital Best Security Services Residential, LLC Arkansas Electric Energy DC Custom Homes LLC Blue Bell First Choice Drug Consumers Delta Regional Authority Creameries, L.P. Testing & Occupational Arkansas Employee Dennis Burrow, M.D. Health Services Assistance Program Bodycote K-Tech, Inc. Donahue Accounting First National Bank Bowman Fitness Club Arkansas Employees Consultants, PLLC of Crossett Federal Credit Union Bozell, LLC Dumas Chamber Flake & Kelley Arkansas Game and Fish Brandon Moving of Commerce Commercial Commission and Storage Dynegy Flight Safety Arkansas Human Springdale Insurance International Development The EAST Initiative Brown and Brown Corporation Eaton Corporation Forest Oil Corporation Insurance of Arkansas FPEC Corporation

28 Frac Tech Services La Quinta Inn Panhandle Oil Steel Related & Suites Downtown and Gas, Inc. Technology, LLC Gill Elrod Ragon Owen Little Rock Conf. Ctr. & Sherman, P.A. Pathfinder Steve Fineberg Lake Hamilton Resort Exploration, LLC and Associates Inc. Glad Manufacturing/ A Clorox Company Lamar Advertising PDC Companies Storm Cat Energy Goodwin Travel Legacy Hotel Pender Suez Energy American Express & McCastlain, P.A. North America Leggett & Platt Greater Little Rock Aluminum Group Penn Virginia Sunbelt Convention Transportation MC Energy, LLC Services Company, Inc. Little Rock Services, LLC National Airport Petrohawk Superior Industries Hagan Newkirk Energy Corporation International, Inc. Littler Mendelson, P.C. Financial Services PetroQuest Energy, LLC Susan G. Komen for the LM Glasfiber Hallwood Cure - Ozark Affiliate (Arkansas), Inc. Philander Smith College Petroleum, LLC Arkansas Affiliate Lynda Bowers and Pinnacle Foods Hanson Pipe & Precast of Susan G. Komen Associates Realtors, Inc. Group LLC for the Cure Harcros Chemicals Inc. Lynn Institute Pinnacle Healthcare Synergy Medical Hickory Springs of the Ozarks Pinnacle Signs Manufacturing Company Systems Contracting Magna IV Color Imaging & Graphics Corporation Historic Arkansas Mainstream Porocel Industries Museum Foundation Ted Monroe Mainstream Precision Industries Trucking, Inc. Holiday Inn Express- Technologies, Inc. Bryant Ranch @ Pinnacle Point Telecom March of Dimes, Management, Inc. Holiday Island Chamber Randolph County Arkansas Chapter of Commerce Chamber of Commerce Terminix International Meadors, Adams Hot Springs Mall Razor Chemical, Inc. The Benham & Lee, Inc. Companies, LLC Hot Springs Residence Inn - Mendel Capital Title Company North Little Rock The Bug Man, Inc. Management, Inc. Hurd-Long Architects Ring Container Tipton and Hurst, Inc. Mercury Public Affairs Husqvarna Riverside Furniture Transamerica Metropolitan Outdoor Products Corporation Worksite Marketing National Bank Hutchinson Robert Taylor Trinity Consultants Miller & Company, PLLC Financial, Inc. Rockline Industries Turnage Employment Moore Stephens Frost Innerplan Service Group, Inc. RSVP Catering Office Interiors Morris Beck Twillie Realty, Inc. Construction ERA Rushing Realty Inter-Tel Services Inc. University of Arkansas Technologies, Inc. Rx Catering Clinton School Mr. Mason’s Pit Bar-B-Q ITT Koni Friction Safety-Kleen of Public Service & Catering Co. Products Division Systems, Inc. United Fence Multi-Craft James Lee Witt Saxon Drilling and Construction Contractors Inc. Associates dba Global Company, Inc. Seiz Sign Company Options Group NABCO Mechanical University of Phoenix- & Electrical Contractors Seligman Chamber Jay S. Stanley Little Rock of Commerce & Associates Nabholz Properties, Inc. USBank SemGroup, L.P. Jewell Engineers, Inc. National Bank Vanadis 3 of Arkansas Sheila F. Campbell, P.A. Just Communities Companies, LLC of Central Arkansas National Sherwin-Williams Wabash Wood Products Technical Systems Paint Company Juvenile Diabetes Weldit Corporation Research Foundation New Hope Prosthetic Shred-It & Orthotic Services, Inc. Williams & Dean, International Roger Smith Associated K-Tops Plastic NovaSys Health Southern Bancorp, Inc. Architects, Inc. Manufacturing, Inc. Novus Arkansas, LLC Southwestern The Winthrop Kraft Foods - Planters Office Recruiters Energy Company Rockefeller Foundation Kraft Foods Otter Creek Spectra XTO Energy, Inc. Kutak Rock LLP Land Company Technologies, LLC Pace Industries Stampede Transportation, LLC

29 30 Thanks to Arkansas Electric Cooperatives El Dorado A&P Nabholz Properties Our Sponsors Arkansas Environmental El Dorado Chamber National Park Community College Federation of Commerce Northwest Arkansas Chambers Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation Entergy Arkansas of Commerce The following members and Arkansas Forestry Association Enterprise Rent A Car Nucor Steel-Arkansas organizations sponsored Arkansas Hospital Association Farm Bureau Mutual Nucor-Yamato Steel Arkansas Manufacturing Solutions Insurance Company OCE’/Copy Systems State Chamber/AIA events in Arkansas Oklahoma Gas FedEx Freight East Office of Congressman Mike Ross 2007. Sponsorships included Arkansas Timber First National Bank of Altheimer Office of Senator Blanche Lincoln Leadership Arkansas, Lobbyist Producers Association Friday Eldredge & Clark LLP OG+E Luncheons, Washington Fly-In Arkansas Western Gas Global Strategy Group Paragould Chamber of Commerce Arvest Bank Golden Living Potlatch Corporation and Congressional Dinner, Association of Arkansas Counties Greater Pine Bluff Chamber Pulaski Technical College Small Business Awards Arkansas State University of Commerce Regions Bank Luncheon and Annual Meeting. AT&T Arkansas Heifer International Rogers-Lowell Chamber Baxter Healthcare Holiday Inn Express – Bryant of Commerce Acxiom Corporation Calhoun County Bank Independent Insurance Russellville Chamber AEP/SWEPCO CDI Contractors Agents Association of Commerce Alltel Corporation CenterPoint Energy Isle of Capri Casino Sam’s Club American Greetings Corporation Central Moloney Jonesboro Regional Simmons First National Bank Arcelor Pine Bluff CenturyTel Chamber of Commerce Southern Bancorp Arkansas Asphalt Chemtura Corporation Kedzie Automatic Transmission Stephens Production Pavement Association Chesapeake Energy Kimberly-Clark Corporation Stephens Inc. Arkansas Association CJRW Lion Oil Company The Alliance of Independent Colleges Cooper Communities Little Rock Port Authority The Heritage Company Arkansas Automobile County Judges Association Little Rock Regional Tyson Foods Dealers Association Cross County Chamber Chamber of Commerce US Bank Arkansas Blue Cross of Commerce McKee Foods University of Arkansas and Blue Shield Cross Gunter Witherspoon Meadows Enterprises Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Arkansas Broadcasters Association & Galchus P.C. Moore Stephens Frost Weyerhaeuser Company The Arkansas Capital Deltic Timber Corporation Murphy Oil Corporation Windstream Corporation Corporation Group Domtar Industries, Inc. Nabholz Construction Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation Arkansas Community Foundation E.C. Barton & Company Corporation

3131 Executive Committee

Arkansas State Chamber Associated Industries of Commerce Officers of Arkansas, Inc., Officers

Chairman Vice Chairman Chairman Vice Chairman - Hugh McDonald Randy Wilbourn Benny J. Baker Strategic Planning Entergy Arkansas, Inc. Alltel Corporation International Paper Ray Dillon Container Division Deltic Timber Corporation

Vice Chairman Vice Chairman - Ed Drilling National Affairs AT&T Arkansas Ray Bracy Vice Chairman Past Chairman Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Joe Bossier, III Archie Schaffer, III Albemarle Corporation Tyson Foods, Inc.

Ex-Officio

Vice Chairman - Treasurer Membership Development Gary Head & Marketing Signature Bank Michele Bond of Arkansas CJRW Northwest

Bob Lamb Raymond Burns Southwestern Energy/ Rogers-Lowell Area Arkansas Western Gas Chamber of Commerce

Past Chairman President and CEO Stacy Sells Paul H. Harvel Cranford Johnson State Chamber/AIA Robinson Woods

32 Board of Directors

Arkansas State E. Kearney Dietz Mike Mathes Dennis Smiley Chamber Arkansas Independent Colleges National Bank of Arkansas Arvest Bank of Commerce & Universities Charles Mazander James W. Smith John Dreher Mazander Engineered Equipment Friday Eldredge & Clark Frank Adams CenturyTel Cossatot Community College of U of A Martha McCaskill F. S. “Sandy” Stroope Drue Duncan Roddy McCaskill Realty Boat World, Inc. Pfizer Pharmaceuticals Jay Allbaugh Cox Communications Venita McCellon-Allen Frank Thomas Oral Edwards AEP Southwestern Electric Power Stephens Inc. GES, Inc./Food Giant Donald V. Allen Donald V. Allen – Consultant Mike McFarland Mark Vanderpool Robert Evans First Security Bank Union Bank Arkansas State University Richard Arnold Conway Corporation Jack A. McNulty Gary Voigt Jim S. Gowen, Sr. Bridges Young Matthews & Drake Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas Merchants and Planters Bank Phillip Baldwin Southern Bancorp, Inc. Jack Meadows Duff Wallace Grady E. Harvell Meadows Enterprises, Inc. Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance AFCO Steel, LLC Company of Arkansas, Inc. David Bartlett Simmons First National Corporation Michael S. Moore Dick Horne Friday Eldredge & Clark Marcus Wallace American Insurance Association State Farm Insurance Gary Beasley E.C. Barton & Company Biff Morgan Richard Hudson Regions Bank Sam Walls University of Arkansas The Arkansas Capital Paul Beran Corporation Group University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Roy L. Murphy Keith M. Ingram Mid-South Engineering Company Razorback Concrete Company, Inc. Ewell Welch Tad Bohannon Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation Wright Lindsey & Jennings Jose Oakley Eric Jackson Isle of Capri Casino Oaklawn Jockey Club George Wheatley Walter Bryant Waste Management of Arkansas CenterPoint Energy Leon Philpot Jeff Jones Rich Mountain Electric CenturyTel Cooperative, Inc. Don Wilborne Michael J. Callan Windstream Corporation Arkansas Oklahoma Gas Corporation Joyce Judy Rob Ratley Arkansas Employees Federal OG+E Kevin Zaffaroni Credit Union Acxiom Corporation Mel Coleman North Arkansas Electric Cooperative MaryJane Rebick Troy Keeping OCE/Copy Systems Southland Park Gaming & Racing Roger Collins Associated Industries Harps Food Stores, Inc. Randy Scott of Arkansas Walter Kimbrough Farmers Bank & Trust Company Philander Smith College John Cooper, III Joshua C. Allen Cooper Communities, Inc. Michael Shelley Allens, Inc. Benny M. Koontz US Bank Koontz Electric Company, Inc. Ed Coulter Scott Anderson ASU-Mountain Home Robert L. Shoptaw Superior Graphite Barry Ledbetter Arkansas Blue Cross Simmons First Bank of Jonesboro and Blue Shield Carlton E. Davis David Baker Warren Bank & Trust Company FutureFuel Chemical Company Cheryl Martin Sam Sicard Washington Group International First National Bank of Fort Smith Continued on page 34

33 Board of Directors Roger Hartsough Tom Price AIA Lifetime Austin Powder Company Chesapeake Energy, Inc. Board Members Continued from page 33

Brian Hastings Bill J. Reed Ian Beer Hiram Walker/A Pernod Riceland Foods, Inc. W.C. “Buddy” Coleman Leer Ltd. Partnership, Ricard Company Coleman Dairy Star/Starrett Product Division Lynn Reinbolt Dan Haygood Road Systems, Inc. Dan Woods Scotty Bell Arkansas Steel Associates Timex Corporation (retired) Virco Manufacturing Corporation Charles P. Rink Jim Heifner Remington Arms Company, Inc. Franklin Electric Company, Inc. Mark Benson Ex-Officio Potlatch Corporation Perry A. Roberts Board Members Thomas Holmes Emerson Electric Company John Bodart Weyerhaeuser Company Cooper Tire & Rubber Company Tom Siebenmorgen Lydia Carson Randy Hopper Leisure Arts, Inc. Balm Innovations, LLC Steven Brothers Wood Manufacturing Company/ American Greetings Corporation Ranger Boats Melissa Smith Sammie Cox McKee Foods Corporation AEP Southwestern Electric Power Bob Butler Graham Huff May Construction Company Martin Sprocket & Gear, Inc. Don Stephan Jim Davis Federal Mogul Georgia-Pacific Corporation Dan Caspall W. Kent Ingram, Jr. V & B Manufacturing Company Razorback Concrete Company, Inc. Bill Stobaugh Luke Gordy Murphy Oil Corporation Arkansans for Education Reform Ron Keeneth Nick Coburn Foundation Pinnacle Foods Group LLC Firestone Tube Company John Thaeler Southwestern Energy Company Russell Gunter Robert E. Langston Bob Coleman Cross Gunter Witherspoon Langston Companies, Inc. Coleman Dairy Doyle Thresher & Galchus P.C. Rheem Air Conditioning Division Larry Lynn Samuel E. Commella, Jr. Stephen W. Jones Central Moloney, Inc. Nucor Steel-Arkansas James Vealey Jack Nelson Jones Fink Jiles Custom Direct & Gregory Steve M. Cousins Patrick Mathieu Unilever Lion Oil Company Guy Veilleux Tom Kennedy SGL Carbon, LLC Entergy Arkansas, Inc. Karen Dickinson Thomas Maxwell Maxwell Hardwood Georgia-Pacific Corporation James D. Walcott, Jr. Kurt Knickrehm Flooring Company Weldon Williams & Lick, Inc. Regions Insurance Haskell L. Dickinson, III Mike McFerran Granite Mountain Quarries Stephen Weaver Max Koonce The Trane Company CMC Steel - Arkansas/Southern Post Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.-CMI Mark J. Feldman W. Scott McGeorge Flexsteel Industries, Inc. Tom Weiss Greg Nabholz Pine Bluff Sand & Gravel Company L.A. Darling Company Nabholz Properties, Inc. Roland E. Garlinghouse Larry Miller Gar-Bro Manufacturing Company Dean Williams Michael O. Parker FedEx Freight – East MacLean-ESNA Dover Dixon Horne PLLC Danny Glass Bill O’Brien Firestone Building Jerry Wilson Robert D. Smith, III Entegra Power Group LLC Products Company Pathfinder Exploration, LLC Attorney

Bert Parke Leon Hall Glenn Woods Lynn Tatum Democrat Printing Timex Corporation Lockheed Martin Missiles Tyson Foods, Inc. & Lithographing Company & Fire Control Bill Hannah Nabholz Construction Corporation John Pownall Albert Yarnell Kimberly-Clark Corporation Yarnell Ice Cream Company

34 35 36