Vilonia Chamber discusses how not to keep secrets

VILONIA "We have a lot of people tell us we are one of the best kept secrets and we don't want to be," said Heather Robinette of the Arkansas Small Business Development Center while addressing the Vilonia Area Chamber of Commerce Monday night.

"We have lots of new and wonderful things to offer," she added. Speaking for about 45 minutes, she outlined the scope of ASBDC as being the "state's premier business assistance program" dedicated to helping small businesses, new or established, to achieve success and to promote economic development throughout the state. ASBDC, she said, provides guidance, gives recommendations, offers information and resources that are specifically designed to meet the needs of the small business owner. Areas the center targets involves planning, growth, financing, marketing, technology and improving business profitability.

The center, she said, can also provide some "very powerful" information and in depth information regarding market research for those considering starting a business. That information may include plotting competitors, identifying potential customers and providing access to industry profiles.

She encouraged anyone who thinks they may need the center's serviced with strategic planning or "growing" a business to "Just give us a call, we'll take it from there."

When a chamber member asked for a definition of a small business, Robinette said she really didn't want to limit it to a number of employees.

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"If someone comes to us, they probably qualify for our services," she answered.

She also talked about the ease of accessing training on the Internet via the center with online classes at a cost of $30. The online courses, she said, include 20 core business basic classes encompassing more than 3,500 animated slides, 350 tools and resources, teaching the three Ms "money, marketing and management."

"They are not boring and they are a good use of time," she said. This is the only service, she added, where there is a charge and classes are available "24/7."

The number for the center in Little Rock is 501-683-7700. The center's Web site is asbdc.ualr.edu.

Prior to Robinette, Jackie Fowlkes, chamber president, presided over the business portion of the meeting.

In a treasurer's report, it was said there is $6,409.13 in the general budget and $2,165.51 in the sign account. The latter fund is set up to place signage at the entrances to Vilonia.

Fowlkes announced the general chamber membership will be going away from meeting monthly to quarterly membership meetings. However, she said, the monthly board meetings will continue and be open to the membership. She asked that members also relay their thoughts on speakers, topics and meeting times.

She also said the annual banquet may be changed from January to a February date. Volunteers, Fowlkes said, are being recruited for the banquet committee.

Bargains Galore on 64, the yard sale from Ft. Smith to Beebe to be held August 7-9, was discussed. Mayor Ken Belote termed the event as "becoming a happening thing."

"It's getting huge," he said. The chamber will be participating and renting spots at the First Assembly of God Church, located on U.S. Highway 64, as a fundraiser. Volunteers are also needed to man the chamber booth at that event, Fowlkes said.

"It's going to be hot," Fowlkes said. "But, you will have a good time."

Secretary/treasurer Laura McNeel read the winners from drawings held at Vilonia Fest . Winners included Kim Coker, two engraved business card holders from First Class Trophies; Eugenia Petruccelli, a set of five state quarters from Regions Bank; Heather Partee, a $50 savings bond from First Security Bank; Stacy Cotton, a gift card from Ruple Photography; Amanda Beene, a First State Bank gift card; Mary Mitchell, a gift certificate from Vilonia Chiropractic; Pam Staley, an American flag from Vilonia Realty; Shirley Mewborn, a car care set from Blocker Performance.

Fowlkes introduced Freeman Collier of Presidential Roofing in Vilonia as a new chamber member.

For information or to participate in any of the activities or serve on any of the committees email laura_mcneel@hotmail.com or call 501-733-0386.