Jonesboro Chamber Celebrates 100 Years, Notes Service of Chamber Chairs

The Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce reached a significant milestone Tuesday as the group hosted its 100th annual banquet. The chamber began in 1915 as the Jonesboro Businessman’s Club, with W.D. Self as its chairman. Nearly 90 other people have served as well, with each filling at least a one-year term.

The chamber was incorporated in the 1940’s, chamber Vice President Cari White said. Chamber president Linda Wofford said it has been a great experience to serve, getting an opportunity to see the partnerships and work that has made the chamber successful.
The crowd of about 700 also heard from 2014 NHRA Pro Stock Champion Erica Enders-Stevens.

Enders-Stevens, who won the championship last year and leads in this year’s standings, said she started racing at age 8 due to her father racing as well. She said she has had the opportunity to learn the business, saying it was a tough road early on. But, she said racing is a passion for her and that her team has made it possible.

“I would say that teamwork leads to dream work,” Enders-Stevens said.

She said television coverage of drag racing “does not do it justice,” with the industry being family friendly. As for her career, the 31-year old, who had a Disney movie made about her life, has been surreal. Enders-Stevens said she recently had the opportunity to meet former Tonight Show host Jay Leno. Leno, who is a huge car enthusiast, hosts a show on CNBC, called “Jay Leno’s Garage.” Enders-Stevens will appear on the show Wednesday night (Oct. 7) to “have a chance to teach Jay something about racing.”

AWARDS PRESENTED
There were several awards given Tuesday night during the chamber dinner.

Ritter Arnold was presented the Agri Business Person of the Year award. Arnold grew up in Marked Tree and has worked in agriculture for 37 years. Arnold has also been active in several agriculture and conservation groups during his career.

Arnold’s family has owned Ritter Agriculture and Ritter Communications for well over a century.
White said in a video that agriculture has played a huge role in the city’s history, with Riceland Foods being an early company.

Other awards presented Tuesday were:
• Bridge Builder of the Year: Lynn Brunner

• Ambassador of the Year: Ed Ware

• Betty T. Sloan Promotion Award: Jonesboro Radio Group

• Ed Way Young Professional of the Year: Adam Sartin

• Roy H. Jolly Award for volunteerism: Dr. Charles Coleman

Also, Wofford presented her gavel to new chamber president Tony Rampley. Rampley said it will be a pleasure to serve as chamber president.