The HOGS are hot! As an alum, Woo Pig Sooie! It’s been years since I could say that…so privilege here please.

And now, to the Harrison Regional Chamber of Commerce. That’s what it’s about as I write this the first day of October. As Harrison Mayor Jerry Jackson told our Board at its meeting two weeks ago, “we have momentum!” Every time we turn around, there’s something new to announce and talk about.

Lew Thompson will turn dirt shortly on a new residential subdivision. Claridge Products just announced a major expansion and new technology for their team and the community. Hutchcraft Ministries hosted a groundbreaking this past week for their new Native American leadership center. Our Boone County Leadership Institute and Youth Leadership Academy kicked off last month. The Small Biz Connection, the young professional’s organization – the Bridge – and the Women in Business Networking groups are all active. Our WIN (Workforce Initiative Network) Leadership Academy, connecting business and industry with our high school teachers and counselors, is in full swing.

New investment is coming in housing, businesses, and infrastructure for Boone County and its several municipalities too. The prosperity is spreading. Good paying jobs are available in all of our business sectors…from retail, to services, to manufacturing. The rich quality of life is here in the Ozarks for all to take advantage of.

The Chamber’s public policy committee has been engaging in the state’s redistricting efforts the past several months, submitting a recommended, revised state senate map for the Board of Apportionment’s consideration. We’re also sensitive to the Congressional redistricting being discussed, and the impact those new boundaries will have on Harrison, Boone County and the region, especially for business.

The community is fully engaged as well, hosting the Arkansas State Hot Air Balloon Championship this past weekend. Our Parks and Recreation Department is signing up major youth sports tournaments for this year and next. The 134th annual Northwest Arkansas District Fair concluded this past Sunday. Harvest Homecoming is this weekend on the Square. We’re planning a day-long exchange with Central Arkansas students, parents and community leaders later this month in Little Rock, with education and a community service project.

North Arkansas College is making final preparations to present our Economic Development Summit on Thursday, October 28th. An action-packed event – featuring nationally known business leaders – will take place at the Durand Center, with details available soon.

This community, its leadership and the Chamber are engaged. It’s a high energy partnership that’s made for progress. As I said last month: come join us! Call me at 870-741-2659 to be part of the momentum.

We are Taking Care of Business! Cheers, Bob