The Arkansas 100

 

Work With Clients Who Share Your Vision

It's important to work with clients who share your ideals.

As a business owner, you should create a mission statement that you can firmly stand behind. Once you’ve articulated what you and your team believe in, align your company with clients who share the same vision.

Just like marriage and friendship, a shared set of values is a significant driver in successful relationships. It allows for easier communication and a better understanding of goals. When you understand and identify with how your client thinks, driving those business results will become easier.

By seeking clients with similar vision, you’re showing your commitment to those ideals, contributing to client retention and growth.

– Natalie Ghidotti, Ghidotti Communications

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Hare Wynn Settles Exxon Pegasus Lawsuit

Sixty-four families will receive settlement for the 2013 oil spill. (Photo courtesy of Hare Wynn on Facebook)

Hare Wynn Newell & Newton recently announced that it has settled a lawsuit on behalf of dozens of Mayflower homeowners affected by a 2013 oil spill.

The March 2013 rupture of the Exxon Pegasus pipeline caused about 150,000 gallons of oil to flow through Mayflower neighborhoods. Hare Wynn, which has offices in Little Rock and Fayetteville, reached a favorable settlement for the 64 Mayflower families represented, settling the case before trial. Hare Wynn attorneys Shawn Daniels and Don McKenna filed suit against Exxon in 2013.

The spill displaced scores of Mayflower residents and disrupted the lives of hundreds of others.

– Aaron Sadler, Ghidotti Communications

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Women’s Foundation of Arkansas Announces 2017 Power of the Purse Honorees

Three women will be honored for the strides made in their fields at the annual luncheon. (Photo courtesy of womensfoundationarkansas.org)

The Women’s Foundation of Arkansas will honor Shayla Copas, Betty Clark Dickey and Sharon Tallach Vogelpohl at the Power of the Purse luncheon on Oct. 3.

“Power of the Purse is an amazing platform for raising awareness of WFA initiatives and recognizing Arkansas women who are making strides in their fields,” said Anna Beth Gorman, WFA executive director. “These honorees are accomplished and helping pave the way for future Arkansan women.”

Copas will be honored as Woman of the Year in Philanthropy, Dickey as the First Lady’s Woman in Public Service and Vogelpohl as Woman of the Year in Business.

– Kathryn Heller, Ghidotti Communications

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LumoXchange Makes International Money Transfer Easy

Maf Sonko, founder of LumoXchange and participant in Little Rock’s 2016 FinTech accelerator program, settled in Little Rock this year to scale his business. He will launch services this summer with international payments to the Philippines, Senegal, and Gambia. (Photo courtesy of LumoXchange)

LumoXchange Founder and CEO Maf Sonko had limited options to send funds to Gambia. It cost $27 to send $250 and took four days.

“Not being able to easily compare fees and exchange rates frustrated me, so I decided to do something about it,” Sonko said.

LumoXchange, incorporated in 2015, is a currency exchange marketplace that helps users find favorable exchange rates and make international payments on one platform.

“We chose Little Rock because of the excitement and support for technology startups,” Sonko said. “We want to be part of the journey making Little Rock a regional hub for entrepreneurs.”

– Jess Pingrey, Ghidotti Communications

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Cocoa Belle Relocates to Bryant, Launches Subscription Service

Imagine a box of local artisan chocolates from Carmen Portillo arriving at your home or office on a monthly basis. With Cocoa Belle’s new subscription service, this dream is reality. (Photo courtesy of Cocoa Belle)

There may be no woman in Arkansas who loves chocolate more than Carmen Portillo. Portillo became interested in artisan chocolates while living in London where she tasted handmade, gourmet truffles.

In 2009, she became the first Certified Professional Chocolatier in Arkansas. In 2012, she opened Cocoa Belle in the Little Rock River Market Pavilion. She relocated to Bryant this year. Portillo handcrafts every item with her own unique recipes, making the chocolates both beautiful and delicious.

Cocoa Belle offers in-store experiences, online ordering, special event catering and is currently launching a subscription service, bringing chocolate to your front door.

– Jess Pingrey, Ghidotti Communications

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8th Street Market Opens With BITE NW Arkansas

BITE NW Arkansas serves as Northwest Arkansas’ premier food festival. (Photo courtesy of BITE NW Arkansas on Facebook)

BITE NW Arkansas, a food festival bringing in the finest cuisine and chefs from around the region, begins this evening — marking the opening of Bentonville’s 8th Street Market.

“We can’t think of a better first event for 8th Street Market than BITE NW Arkansas,” said Bea Apple, of the 8th Street campus experience design team. “This event celebrates and brings together the best food, cooking and people from around the region. It’s a fantastic representation of what 8th Street Market aims to bring to the community and will give folks a taste of what’s to come in the near future.”

– Kathryn Heller, Ghidotti Communications

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Inaugural Little Rock Vegan Food Fest

Vegan caterer, Viva Vegan, will host the Little Rock Vegan Fest. (Photo courtesy of Little Rock Vegan Fest on Facebook)

The first-ever Little Rock Vegan Fest is coming to Chester Street on June 24.

“Our main goal is to give vegans, vegetarians and veg-curious people what they’ve been waiting for,” said Maria Larios of Viva Vegan.“Something many people take for granted is going somewhere and being able to order anything off the menu. At Little Rock Vegan Fest our attendees will be able to eat, drink and buy items with ease.”

The festival also features vegans goods.

“Other vegan items include apparel, hair care, handcrafted wares, herbs, jewelry, fresh produce, kombucha, juices and much more,” said Larios.

— Maeghen Carter, Ghidotti Communications

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What Does the Business E-Waste Pick up Program Do?

It’s no secret: Electronics are one of fastest products to be worn out and replaced, especially in businesses and schools. Rather than let old equipment pile up in closets or be thrown out entirely, let Regional Recycling do the work. Anything with a cord can be recycled through the program.

By partnering with eSCO, we ensure that sensitive information and data is taken care of properly. Then, either refurbish the equipment or break it down into parts to make new electronics.

To schedule a pick up from Regional Recycling, click here. Learn more about residential drop off centers here.

– Carol Bevis, Regional Recycling

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Argenta Arts Foundation Brings in Artist INC Program

The Artist, INC program is accepting applications for the upcoming fall sessions. (Photo courtesy of Artist, INC on Facebook)

Artist, INC, a cutting-edge business training program for aspiring full-time artists, will return for a third time to the Laman Library this fall on behalf of the Argenta Arts Foundation.

“If you’re aiming to make your art your profession, connect with an artist community and learn the business side of art, I recommend taking advantage of this opportunity,” said local artist Lisa Krannichfeld Walden. “I did it a few years back, and it was a great experience. Just a couple of years later, I am now showing and selling work internationally. Art is now my full-time gig.”

– Maeghen Carter, Ghidotti Communications

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The Story of Old Mike

Old Mike was buried 60 years after his death at the DeAnn Cemetery in Prescott, Arkansas on May 12, 1975. (Photo courtesy of encyclopediaofarkansas.net)

“Old Mike,” the name given to the mysterious traveller, was a salesman found dead in 1911 in Prescott.

Mike traveled to the town throughout the year to make deliveries near the railroad tracks. On April 11, 1911, it’s assumed Mike attended an outdoor revival. The next day, he was discovered under a tree in the park, dead of either a heart attack or stroke. His body was taken to the Cornish Funeral home where he was embalmed and placed on display for over 60 years.

In 1975, the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office asked Cornish Funeral Home to bury the body.

– Ann Claire Johnson, Ghidotti Communications

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Eureka Springs’ Fat Tire Festival

Fat Tire Festival attracts cyclists, partygoers and supportive audience members from surrounding states. (Photo courtesy of www.fattirefestival.com)

Coming to Eureka Springs on July 14 is the 19th Annual Fat Tire Festival.

The three-day weekend will be filled with good company, bike riding and the great outdoors. The signature Big Town Ride takes cyclists through NWA, including a pit stop at Brews. Competitive events include downhill, short track, Super D and cross country races.

Not a cyclist? Come out and cheer on the bikers during the races. Feel free to visit the food trucks on your way to the course. While you’re there, participate in the silent auction and enjoy live music at Lake Leatherwood Park.

– Ann Claire Johnson, Ghidotti Communications

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Nancy Martin: Lawyer and Designer

Lawyer Nancy Martin discusses her fashion career.

For many, it’s hard to imagine changing career paths. Much less careers vastly different from one another. That wasn’t the case for Bentonville-based lawyer turned fashion designer Nancy Martin.

“All my clothes going to court were uncomfortable,” Martin said. “I just thought ‘I can do better than this.’”

Nearly five years ago, N.A. Martin began with the launch of her first pencil skirt, made in New York City. Martin creates pieces for women of all ages that are comfortable, functional, and also stylish.

While her fashion business continues to grow, Martin also actively maintains her own law practice.

– Kathryn Heller, Ghidotti Communications

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Working With Influencers

Paying a trusted and respected social media influencer to post about your brand can boost your brand's credibility.

I’m a huge proponent of working with social media influencers. I believe that is where brands can get the most bang for their buck, especially with millennials.

Things to consider when working with influencers: how many followers do they have? Are their followers in your target audience? How often do they share sponsored posts? Do they have a high engagement rate?

Reaching out to someone with 100K+ Instagram followers can seem intimidating, but everyone I’ve reached out to has been kind, receptive and helpful. If it fits with your brand, consider partnering with an influencer on your next paid campaign.

– Haley Barton, The Atlanta 100

Atlanta

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What Kind of Leader Do You Want to Be?

Being a good leader takes practice and dedication.

Are you a leader, or poised to be one? As such, you can create fear and confusion or inspire and motivate. To achieve the latter, lead by example, creating a vision and setting a clear path for achieving it. The most effective leaders are excellent communicators, not afraid to do the work required to achieve success. Other key qualities of leadership include:

• Courage

• Integrity

• Humility

• Focus

• Cooperation

And you will earn the respect of those you lead with authenticity, aligning what you say with truth and reality. Leadership is not always innate, but can be cultivated with practice and dedication.

– Lisa Cutter, The Colorado 100

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Steps: The New Digital Currency

Brisk walking is one of the top exercises recommended to keep your heart healthy.

Walking is good for your health, and it can also be good for your wallet.

Some employers have been incentivizing employees to get moving — and become healthier — with fitness trackers. While FitBits and other wearable devices are great, fitness classes that provide a sense of community and highlight current workout trends are even more popular. Regardless of the perks, people won’t take part if it’s not convenient, personalized and fun.

Rewards for being active can come to employees in the form of gift cards, prizes or discounts on health insurance premiums. That’s why steps are becoming a new digital currency.

– Ed Buckley, III, Ph.D., Peerfit

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Three Reasons to Invest in Company Culture

Strong company culture benefits you, your employees and your clients.

Focusing on the company culture of your business has benefits both in and out of the office, if done correctly.

– Hiring: More than ever, people, especially millennials, are looking at company culture as a major influencer when applying for jobs.

– Show clients who you truly are: This is your opportunity to shine to potential clients. Through social media and branding, display your company culture as a representation of your values.

– Employee engagement: A strong company culture gets employees of various levels interacting with each other more. This leads to increased creativity, retention and all around happiness for the entire team.

– Natalie Ghidotti, Ghidotti Communications

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Chewing the Fat Comes to Potluck & Poison Ivy

Potluck & Poison Ivy is produced by Paula Martin, an award-winning producer and the creator of the Tales From The South Radio Show, which aired on NPR for 10 years. (Photo courtesy of Potluck & Poison Ivy)

The Potluck & Poison Ivy storytelling series premiere was a success with over 100 attendees on May 25. The show encompassed both live storytelling by Kevin Kreese, Tyler Thompson and Susan Elder, along with live music by the PAPI band, featuring Heather Smith.

There are six additional storytelling shows to catch this year, starting with Chewing the Fat featuring Rex Nelson and Paul Austin this month. The duo will bring their famously hilarious podcast repartee to the stage on June 22. Shows include dinner, the show and live music on the fourth Thursday of each month at The Joint in Argenta.

– Jess Pingrey, Ghidotti Communications

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Arkansas Innovation Hub Announces Executive Director

Joel Gordon will serve as the executive director of The Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub. (Photo courtesy of AR Innovation Hub)

Joel Gordon has been named new executive director of The Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub succeeding Warwick Sabin.

“The Hub’s resources, staff and members have become the center for innovative energy in the state of Arkansas,” Gordon said. “I will give every effort to support and grow this community of creative minds.”

Gordon is a leader in the maker movement. He has been to the White House twice as a panelist in discussion on makers’ impact on workforce and economic development.

“I cannot think of anyone better suited to lead the organization as it continues to evolve and grow,” Sabin said.

– Maeghen Carter, Ghidotti Communications

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Think Big Little Rock Aims to Keep Millennials in Central Arkansas

A committee is dedicated to expanding economic development in Central Arkansas. (Photo courtesy of thinkbiglittlerock.com)

Think Big Little Rock is an initiative of Create Little Rock, a young professionals group powered by the Little Rock Regional Chamber. Its mission: attract, retain and develop young professionals in Central Arkansas.

Economic development is one of six tasks forces designed to grow sustainability.

“We can’t attract and retain millennials without a good economic foundation that’s attractive,” said Kody Robinson, TBLR economic development committee member. “Our initiatives include a social networking hub for young professionals where we can learn what’s happening in the city. We want to build up entrepreneurship and make others aware that they can get involved.”

– Maeghen Carter, Ghidotti Communications

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Coding Arkansas’ Future Awarded Grant

ASMSA’s Coding Arkansas' Future was awarded a grant from Google for its education efforts. (Photo courtesy of asmsa.org)

Last summer, The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts (ASMSA) launched the Coding Arkansas’ Future initiative to expand computer science education and provide professional education opportunities, including mentorship for teachers. This spring, ASMSA was awarded a grant from Google’s CS4HS program offering an online course teachers can enroll in as learners for no cost.

“We are excited to work alongside Governor Hutchinson and the Arkansas Department of Education to share our two decades of experience in computer science education to build capacity in Arkansas teachers and spark innovation within students across the state,” said Corey Alderdice, ASMSA director.

– Jess Pingrey, Ghidotti Communications

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Summer Safety for Kids

Keep your little ones happy and healthy with these tips.

School is out and summer fun is in for children whose lazy summer days might include a ride on a bike or splash in a pool.

Dr. Jamie Irwin, pediatrician at CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs, urges parents to take important steps to keep their kids safe this summer:

– Closely supervise children in or near water.

– Always stay within an arms’ reach of infants or toddlers in or around water.

– Young children and inexperienced swimmers should use life jackets.

– Put helmets on kids before putting them on bikes.

– Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, and reapply every 30 minutes.

– Aaron Sadler, Ghidotti Communications

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New Gym to Open in SOMA

SparkFit's mission is to create a movement community that is inclusive, empowering and fun. (Photo courtesy of SparkFit)

A new fitness facility is coming to SOMA in Little Rock! SparkFit, opening this summer, will offer group classes along with experienced personal trainers to help members reach their wellness goals.

SparkFit embraces community engagement and plans to host several SOMA community events, including youth-based donation programs on Wednesday evenings to create a positive venue for teenagers to have fun while learning healthy lifestyle habits.

“We believe through mindful movement, we not only transform our physical bodies, we also transform our minds,” said founders Glenn and Kecia McCracken. “And when individuals are healthier and happier, the whole community benefits.”

– Jess Pingrey, Ghidotti Communications

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Knife Crafting in Nashville

Jerry Fisk has been crafting knives as a master bladesman since 1989. Though his shop is based out of Nashville, AR, Fisk’s knives are known nationwide. He has won several awards, including receiving the title of “National Living Treasure” by the University of North Carolina and has permanent pieces in the New York State Museum and many more.

“I would rather preserve this craft and preserve my name more than I (want to) make money,” Fisk said.

Videographer Jeff Dailey was able to meet with Fisk to learn more about and document his delicate and intricate process in knife carving.

– Jeff Daily, Jeff Daily Media

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TheatreSquared to Break Ground

TheatreSquared’s renovation will unite community and theater. (Photo courtesy of ournextstage.org)

TheatreSquared will break ground on its renovation and expanded home, Our Next Stage, on June 23.

The new 50,000 square feet will include increased theater and art service space and common areas. The vision statement calls the permanent home, “a building that draws the eye and evokes curiosity. A place that invites, hints at the unusual, suggests something significant will happen here.”

Along with open public spaces, the design allows studios and stages to be visible from the outside, reinforcing the idea of bringing community in. TheatreSquared also recently signed a 100-year lease with the city of Fayetteville.

– Kathryn Heller, Ghidotti Communications

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Benton’s Royal Theatre

The Royal Theatre gets its name from its iconic marquee. (Photo courtesy of encyclopediaofarkansas.net)

The Royal Theatre in Benton is one of the oldest theaters in the state.

Wallace Kauffman’s story with the theater began when it was Independent Motion Pictures in 1920, where he worked the projectors. The theater was sold to United Artist Communications in 1936. Kauffman continued to run the business solo until United took over bookings and record keeping in 1949. A marquee and large “Royal” sign were added shortly after, giving the theater its current name.

The Royal Theatre stayed in the Kauffman family for generations. Today, it serves as a live theater and home to The Royal Players.

– Maeghen Carter, Ghidotti Communications

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Where to Shop for Father’s Day Gifts

Shop these local picks for Father’s Day.

For the outdoorsy dad: The Jonesboro-based Gearhead Outfitters will have everything from Yeti coolers to your dad’s favorite hiking boots. Whether his hobby is camping, grilling or hammocking, there’s something for him.

For the fashionable dad: A Little Rock Heights’ favorite, Mr. Wicks has the top men’s dress clothing and sportswear brands. Odds are mom will appreciate the gift just as much!

For the dad who never runs out of jokes: Domestic Domestic prides itself on connecting you to ethical companies. Pick a high-quality gift for dad and top it off with one of their signature hilarious cards.

– Maeghen Carter, Ghidotti Communications

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Little Rock’s Running of the Bulls

Running and roller derby come together to support homelessness missions in Central Arkansas. (Photo courtesy of Running of the Bulls Little Rock on Facebook)

Are you looking for the thrill of Spain’s famous Running of the Bulls without the fear of being trampled by a two thousand-pound animal? The second annual Running of the Bulls benefiting Family Promise of Pulaski County and The Van will take place in Little Rock on June 10.

Members of local roller derby leagues, Girls Rollin’ In The South and Central Arkansas Roller Derby will dress horns on their helmets and soft bats to chase runners and bring excitement to the race. To keep with the fun, there is a kids’ race, bounce houses and fire truck rides.

– Maeghen Carter, Ghidotti Communications

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SEO and PR: One in the Same

Combining PR and SEO is essential in today's connected and digital world.

PR and SEO go hand-in-hand – or they should. Optimized, quality content? Links? Keywords? Branding? All are essential to both PR and SEO.

Instead of only focusing on website numbers or only focusing on storytelling, make everything easier and better by always thinking of PR with SEO in mind and vice versa. When you’re creating content, be sure to create it with shareability in mind. Include links and keywords to further boost your SEO.

Integrating SEO into all things public relations will drive website traffic and Google rankings all while helping to accomplish your public relations goals as well.

– Haley Barton, The Atlanta 100

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Travel Mindfully and Sustainably

Buy locally and be respectful of local customs.

As the travel season is just around the corner and the travellers and the tourists are mapping out their routes and holidays, it is important to know how to leave behind a positive impact.

With the increase in demand for travel, it is essential to be mindful while travelling. Sustainable or green tourism merely means maintaining not only the environment but also the local culture, traditions, heritage, local businesses, and the destinations’ resources.

Here are a few tips to travel green: buy locally made products, give back, honour the local customs, be respectful, and leave as little trace as possible.

– Waad Kibeda, The Dubai 100

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Cooling Your House Without Breaking the Bank

Your home's air conditioning system can account for more than half of your monthly energy bill.

Keeping your home cool this summer doesn’t have to come with an outrageous energy bill. Here are three ways to cut costs without sacrificing comfort:

– Landscape strategically. Low-lying shrubs that keep the ground cool and strategically planted trees that shade your home can reduce energy use by 25%.

– Buy a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to program your AC to automatically adjust the temperature when no one is home and cool it down before someone returns.

– Upgrade your windows. Energy-efficient dual-pane windows keep cool air in and hot air out, making less work for your AC.

— Steve Seeger, Lennar Homes

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