Mother Nature has not been kind this winter to many business sectors from retail to airlines, and certainty not trucking and logistics firms who lose money every day trucks and trains are idle.

Analysts with Stephens Inc. said weather disruptions in the first quarter are likely to have a negative impact on J.B. Hunt’s intermodal operations, which was the basis for a 10-cent reduction in expected first quarter earnings per share. (Stephens provides investment banking services for J.B. Hunt Transport and is compensated accordingly.)

“We remain Overweight with an $87 price target on shares of J.B. Hunt Transport, but we are lowering first quarter estimates,” Brad Delco, analyst with Stephens, writes in March 12 note to investors.

Shares of J.B. Hunt Transport (NASDAQ:JBHT) closed Wednesday (March 12) at $72.75, down 33 cents. For the past 52 weeks the share price has ranged from $67.97 to $79.89.


Delco expects J.B.Hunt to earn 60 cents per share in the first quarter, reduced from 70-cents. He said the transport company’s exposure on the BNSF railroad in/around the Chicago area are creating service disruptions due to the recent string of severe weather. He adds that reduced volumes reported by BNSF will directly impact Hunt’s intermodal segment.

“We lowered our first quarter intermodal volume estimate from 11.5% to 6% and lowered our fiscal 2014 estimate from 11.2% to the low end of the 10% to 14% guidance range. In addition to volume disruptions, we believe that Hunt has lost some potential momentum on pricing, as recent service disruptions impede the likelihood of near-term pricing gains,” Delco noted.

Despite the recent headwinds, Delco said Hunt still provides a solid long-term growth potential from the following:
• Further load conversion to intermodal;
• Improved intermodal pricing;
• More contracts for the dedicated services segment;
• Better earnings from recent expansion in the brokerage segment; and
• Better truckload efficiencies following recent management restructuring.

Crawford County Judge John Hall announced the hiring of James Langford of Collierville, Tenn.-based SouthBuilt TEAM LLC to be the architect for the county's proposed jail.

The jail, which would be constructed only if county voters approved a set of sales taxes totaling 0.75%, is estimated to cost $20 million to build and will be built along U.S. Highway 64 east of Van Buren.

Langford's past experience includes the construction of county jails in Arkansas, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Tennessee. Locally, the University of Tennessee-educated architect was involved in the design of the Washington County Adult and Juvenile Facilities, as well as the Scott County Detention Center.

According to his resume, he "has over two decades of experience in project management, programming, planning and design."

Financial terms of the contract between Langford and the county have not yet been released.

Voters in Crawford County will decide on the jail tax, which has failed on three different occasions, on May 20. If passed, the sales tax rate in Van Buren — the county's largest city — would be 10.25%, among the highest local sales tax rates in the United States.

Brandy Cox, a University of Arkansas graduate who grew up in Hot Springs Village, has been named associate vice chancellor for alumni and executive director of the Arkansas Alumni Association at the University of Arkansas, starting April 21.

“The search for the next executive director of the Arkansas Alumni Association drew a very strong candidate pool, but Brandy Cox clearly stood out,” Chris Wyrick, vice chancellor for advancement, said in a statement. “I know she will provide great leadership for our outstanding staff, and I am confident she has the experience to be an effective executive director and will do an excellent job in the new role of chief development officer for the Alumni Association for Campaign Arkansas.”

Cox previously worked in alumni relations and development at the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville and is currently the senior director of university programs for the OSU Foundation at Oklahoma State University.

“I am thrilled to come home to the University of Arkansas,” said Cox. “I believe in our university and our alumni, and it is an honor to serve them in this capacity. My career in higher education offers a multifaceted fundraising and alumni relations skillset that has prepared me for this role. We have an impressive team in place at the Arkansas Alumni Association, and I look forward to joining them.”

Cox earned her bachelor’s degree in radio, TV and film from the University of the Ozarks and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Arkansas. She has worked as the Arkansas director of communications for the 2004 Bush-Cheney campaign, as a district executive for the Boy Scouts of America, as director of development and director of alumni relations at the University of the Ozarks before taking her present position at Oklahoma State.

“I am most impressed with her wisdom, energy, vision for alumni work and professional background,” John Reap, president of the Arkansas Alumni Association Inc., said in the statement. “As an alumnus and native Arkansan, she has a unique passion for our state and our school. She will be a wonderful ambassador for the university.”

Mercy Northwest broke ground Thursday (March 13) in Centerton on a new 7,351-square-foot clinic. The site is located on 6.2 acres of commercial frontage property on Highway 102 at 1225 E. Centerton Boulevard. The land was donated by Johnelle Hunt, according to Mercy NWA spokeswoman Jessica Eldred.

“The convenience of driving only a couple of miles to see your family physician or a dedicated specialist is a commitment we want to make to this community,” said Dr. Steve Goss, president of Mercy Clinics. “We cannot thank Ms. Hunt enough for donating the land and making this possible. Her generosity is something that will truly bless many.”

The $3 million multi-specialty facility is slated to open later this year. The building iwill house five providers, including two internal medicine and two pediatric physicians, one family medicine doctor, and two family medicine nurse practitioners, with a focus on caring for the entire family. 

The clinic also will offer rotating specialties based on the community’s needs, like cardiology, endocrinology and diabetic education. Patients will also benefit from radiology and laboratory services. Mercy opened its first clinic in Centerton in the summer of 2004, with Dr. Lance Faddis serving as one of the physicians.

“One of the reasons I enjoy family medicine is you get to know entire families and watch them grow over the years; that’s a connection we have with many in Centerton,” Faddis said in a statement. “With the new high school planned and many new families moving in, this is the perfect time for Mercy to make an even bigger commitment to this community.”

Celeste Williams, a family medicine nurse practitioner with Mercy, and Dr. Elinor Bunde, will be part of Mercy Centerton’s core care team.

American shoppers powered through the winter weather lifting retail sales in February. The gains were only fractional compared to January, but up 2.3% from a year ago, according to the National Retail Federation. This sales data excludes autos, fuel and restaurants.

“Today’s positive retail sales report indicates that the economy is primed for growth,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said in the release. “Retailers and consumers endured the harsh winter and they’re hoping both the natural and man-made obstacles to growth will leave with the snow.”

February retail sales, released today (March 13) by the U.S. Census Bureau, which include categories such as automobiles, gasoline stations, and restaurants, increased 0.3% seasonally adjusted month-to-month ($472.2 billion).

The Census also reported that retail sales increased 1.5% adjusted year-over-year.

“Despite a long and cold winter, consumers continued to persevere and spend in February,” NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz noted in the release. “This month’s retail sales data is encouraging and above expectations.

He added that neither the jobs nor retail data reflect the fundamental health of the economy.

“While the weather continues to play tricks on economic forecasts and figures, we expect much-needed clarity come spring as consumers release pent-up demand,” he said.

Sector sales data compared to February 2013
• Building materials and garden equipment sales increased 3.2% 

• Clothing and clothing accessories sales increased 2.4%

• Electronics and appliance sales decreased 2.3%

• Furniture and home furnishing sales were flat

• General merchandise sales decreased 0.9% 

• Health and personal care sales increased 5.6% 

• Online retail sales increased 6.8%


• Sporting goods, hobby, book and music sales decreased 5.3%

Arvest Bank in Fayetteville is pleased to announce that Mike Malone, the President and CEO of the Northwest Arkansas Council, has joined the bank’s board of directors.

Established in 1990, the Northwest Arkansas Council works to identify regional challenges and solutions for the region. Malone has served as the council’s president for more than eight years. 

“We are very pleased that Mike has agreed to join our board,” said Arvest Bank in Fayetteville CEO and President Donny Story. “He has demonstrated key leadership and a deep concern for the betterment of the region while serving at the Northwest Arkansas Council. We know he will bring the same type of concern and leadership to our board.”

A 1987 graduate of Fayetteville High School, Malone is a 1992 cum laude graduate of Hendrix College with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He completed a master’s degree in public policy at the University of Minnesota in 1999.


Before joining the Northwest Arkansas Council, Malone was employed by the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate in Washington, D.C. He worked at the White House for six years under the Clinton administration performing several roles including Deputy Assistant to the President for Management and Administration. 

Malone is a member of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Arkansas program. He also serves on numerous state and local boards including the Northwest Arkansas Community College Foundation’s Board of Directors, the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors, the Area Health Education Centers-Northwest Advisory Board, the Arkansas Capital Corporation’s Board of Directors, Accelerate Arkansas’ Executive Committee and the Northwest Arkansas Naturals’ Advisory Committee.


From 2009 to 2013, Malone served as a member of the Arkansas Lottery Commission. He has also previously served on the Fayetteville Public Library’s Board of Trustees and the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Committee on Healthcare.

He and his wife, Allyson Malone reside in Fayetteville with their two daughters, Olivia and Mia

Springdale-based Tyson Foods Inc. announced the promotion of Rick Thomason to president and general manager of Tyson de Mexico, the company’s oldest international business. In his new role, Thomason will oversee all of Tyson de Mexico’s daily business.
 
“Rick played a critical role in Tyson Foods’ international growth over the last several years,” said Rob Tanksley, senior vice president of Tyson’s Latin America business unit. “He was instrumental in driving our international business to achieve strong earnings growth. In Mexico, he will be part of a very successful team and make a crucial contribution to its success in the future.”
 
Thomason joined Tyson Foods’ corporate cost accounting group in 1991 and has held several positions within the finance and accounting group during his career with the company. Before his promotion, he was vice president of accounting for Tyson Foods’ international businesses.
 
He grew up in Union City, Ind., and earned a bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University.
 
Tyson Foods has had a presence in Mexico for more than 20 years. Tyson de Mexico is a vertically-integrated poultry producer and marketer employing approximately 5,400 employees. Tyson de Mexico holds the No. 3 market-share position and is the country’s leading value-added chicken company. It processes approximately 2.7 million chickens per week at three processing plants.
 
Tyson de Mexico markets products under the Tyson, Del Dia and Granja San Martin brands. The company exports chicken to Vietnam and Guatemala. The company recently expanded into central Mexico to accommodate customers in that region.

Organizers are seeking volunteers and donations to assist with GiveCamp Northwest Arkansas, a 54-hour, weekend event to assist nonprofit organizations needing the help of technology professionals.

Phyl Amerine, who is on the team planning the event, said the event April 11- 13 on the NorthWest Arkansas Community College campus allows designers, developers, database administrators, marketers, web strategists and other technology-focused volunteers to immerse themselves in projects that benefit about seven nonprofit organizations.

GiveCampNWA is part of a national initiative begun by a Microsoft executive in 2007. Today, nearly 30 GiveCamps throughout the country benefit hundreds of nonprofits every year worth millions of dollars. The economic value of this give-fest is typically $5,000 to $20,000 to each charity, depending on the project that’s accomplished.

The last event held in Northwest Arkansas was in 2012 with a financial impact valued at over $100,000, Amerine said.

For additional information, to donate or to volunteer to be involved, the GiveCamp Northwest Arkansas website is www.GiveCampNWA.com. A YouTube video highlights a few of the volunteers and nonprofits involved.

Nonprofit organizations looking to help manufacturers bring back business to the U.S. or looking to help grow businesses in the U.S. can apply for grants from Wal-Mart Store, the Walmart Foundation and the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM).

Together they launched the Walmart U.S. Manufacturing Innovation Fund, announced March 13 at the retailer’s Year Beginning Meetings underway in Orlando, Fla.

The program allows eligible non-profit organizations to apply for grants up to $100,000 or more, funded by the Walmart Foundation. This money can be used to help companies trying to onshore or grow their U.S. manufacturing operations.

The first year of the initiative will focus on innovation in textiles manufacturing and common manufacturing processes that apply to a broad range of consumer goods, including small motor manufacturing and tooling for injection molding, the release notes.

“Through the Walmart U.S. Manufacturing Innovation Fund, we hope to help remove the barriers to revitalizing and growing  U.S. manufacturing, creating jobs and building a stronger American economy,” said Cindi Marsiglio, vice president of U.S. sourcing and domestic manufacturing for Walmart. “This is part of Walmart and the Walmart Foundation’s broader commitment to foster new ideas and jobs to promote strong communities and grow America’s manufacturing footprint.”

The announcement is part of the retailer’s 10-year commitment to buy an additional $250 billion in products that support American manufacturing.

The Boston Consulting Group estimates the initiative will add 1 million jobs in the United States over the next decade.

Applications are due April 22. Selected proposals will receive grants ranging from $100,000 and above for award periods of at least one year, with the option of reapplying for continued funding. Each applicant will need sponsorship from the mayor of a USCM member city.

Officials at Ecclesia College in Springdale and NorthWest Arkansas Community College have signed an agreement that provides a seamless, personalized transfer system for NWACC students to complete their bachelor’s degree programs from Ecclesia College. 
           
Two degree programs are currently available for students seeking the transfer option. NWACC students gain maximum benefit from this agreement if they complete an associate degree from NWACC with advisement toward either business or sport management.

Students can transfer 60 associate degree hours with a grade of “C” or above into the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree or the Sports Management degree at Ecclesia College.

“We look forward to collaborating with Ecclesia to better meet the educational goals of students throughout the region,” she said. “It’s a pleasure to join forces and help launch students on their pathway to successful careers in these key areas,” said Dr. Evelyn Jogenson, president of NWACC.

• B&G Foods promotes Michael Sands
B&G Foods Inc. announced the promotion of Michael Sands to the newly created position of executive vice president of snacks.
 Sands joined B&G Foods in October 2013 following the company’s acquisition of Rickland Orchards, which Sands co-founded with Jason Cohen. Rickland Orchards, whose products include Greek yogurt coated granola bars and bites, was the fourth snack-based acquisition by B&G Foods since October 2012.

He previously served as CEO and president of the Balance Bar Company, the chief marketing and operations officer of the Snapple Beverage Group, and the chief marketing officer and director of international sales of Ben & Jerry’s. Sands also was the co-founder and CEO of LesserEvil Brand Snacks.

“We are delighted to announce Michael Sands’ promotion,” said David L. Wenner, President and chief executive of B&G Foods. “Michael has been a very strong addition to B&G Foods’ management team and has played an important role in the integration of Rickland Orchards into the B&G Foods family. His experience in all aspects of managing snack brands will greatly benefit our company.”

B&G Foods is a supplier to Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and operates a sales office in Bentonville.

• General Mills gives lower guidance
General Mills recently reduced its fiscal year outlook expecting earnings per share of $2.87 and $2.90. The adjusted guidance excludes mark-to-market valuation effects for certain commodities and grain inventories; restructuring and other exit costs; and now also excludes the impact of changes in Venezuelan foreign currency policy.

General Mills said its sales and operating profit for the third quarter ended Feb. 23, will reflect approximately 1% lower volume, consistent with recent food industry trends in developed markets, as well as negative foreign currency translation effects.

In addition, results for the quarter include incremental consumer marketing and merchandising investment in the company's U.S. yogurt business, where response to-date has been encouraging. 

Third-quarter operating profit for the company's U.S. Retail segment is expected to be 10% to 11% below strong year-ago results that grew 13%. Total segment operating profit is also expected to be below last year's strong third-quarter level. Adjusted earnings for the fiscal 2014 third quarter are expected to total approximately 61 cents per share.

The packaged food giant expects to record strong double-digit earnings growth in in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, when the expected rate of input cost inflation, the quarterly tax rate, and the average number of shares outstanding will each be well below prior-year levels.


The company will report third-quarter results on Wednesday, March 19. General Mill is a supplier to Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and operates a large sales office in Rogers.

Witchita-based Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers will open its first Arkansas location on Tuesday (March 18) in Rogers. The quick-casual restaurant is located at 4507 W. Walnut St., in the Scottsdale Shopping Center near I-540 and exit 85.

“Enjoying great food doesn’t mean your meal has to be cooked before you order,” franchise operator Tim Rheem said. “Every one of our items is freshly prepared.”

The burger chain has 113 locations across 18 states since opening in 2002. The restaurant features steakburgers, Chicago-style hotdogs and frozen custard made fresh daily.

Morril Harriman, a former state Senator from Van Buren and the long-time chief of staff for Gov. Mike Beebe, has been appointed by Beebe to the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees.

“Morril has been my best friend and most trusted ally throughout my political career," Beebe said in a statement. "It comes as no surprise that he wants to continue his public service, and I am confident that the U of A Board will benefit from his experience and wisdom."

Harriman, 63, has served as Beebe's Chief of Staff since Beebe took office in 2007. Prior to that, Harriman served 16 years in the Arkansas Senate. He earned his bachelor and law degrees from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

The appointment replaces Sam Hilburn of North Little Rock and expires March 1, 2024.

Quiznos filed bankruptcy on Friday (March 14) seeking to reorganize under Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code. The quick-service restaurant chain expects to continue operating in the ordinary course of business during a restructuring process.

The Denver-based sandwich chain has more than 2,000 restaurants, all but seven are independently owned and operated by franchisees, which are not part of the bankruptcy proceedings.

Senior lenders of Quiznos approved a “pre-packaged” restructuring plan designed to reduce the company’s debt by more than $400 million. The company also received a commitment for $15 million in debtor-in-possession financing from its senior lenders, subject to court approval.

“The actions we are taking are intended to enable Quiznos to reduce our debt, execute a comprehensive plan to further enhance the customer experience, elevate the profile of the brand and help increase sales and profits for our franchise owners,” CEO Stuart K. Mathis, noted in the release. “We look forward to continuing to work with and support our global network of franchise owners, who are the backbone of our business.”

Mathis said key elements in proposed plan include reducing food costs, implementing a franchise owner rebate program, making loans available to franchisees for restaurant improvements in certain circumstances, investing in advertising to improve local awareness, and providing new incentives for prospective franchisees.

The Arkansas Energy Office (AEO), a division of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, announced Monday (March 17) a total of $800,000 in rebates will be provided to two fueling station operators – one in Little Rock and one in West Memphis.

The station operators, which will be awarded the funds through the Gaseous Fuels Rebate Program, will install Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) equipment to provide public access to clean burning motor fuels.

The following stations will each receive a $400,000 rebate once the CNG infrastructure is in place and available to the general public:
• Kum & Go: Springdale, Arkansas,  1220 E. Robinson

• Love’s Travel Stop & Country Store: West Memphis, 800 Martin Luther King Drive

Both stations are anticipated to have CNG access available by late 2014. Once the stations are online, there will be nine CNG stations in Arkansas with public access.

A review panel of industry professionals and leaders rated applications based on factors including geography and project feasibility along with the manner in which the stations aligned with AEO’s goals for alternative fuels development in the state.

“CNG continues to play a large role in our efforts to build a sustainable economy,” Grant Tennille, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, said in a statement. “These rebates provide one more way we can make the use of alternative fuels an option for Arkansans. I encourage Arkansas’s businesses and citizens to learn more about the benefits of buying or converting to a CNG vehicle.”

Gov. Mike Beebe on Monday (March 17) announced the following appointments and reappointments.

Chris Palmer, Little Rock, as Circuit Judge in the Third Division of the 6th Judicial District. Appointment expires Dec. 31, 2014. Replaces Jay Moody.

Governor Beebe also announced appointments to the following boards and commissions:

Jacqueline Bettis, Springdale, reappointed to the Arkansas Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2017.

Betty Bradshaw, Pine Bluff, reappointed to the Governor's Advisory Council on Aging. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2018.

Dr. Ralph Broadwater, Little Rock, reappointed to the Oversight Committee on Breast Cancer Research. Appointment expires Jan. 1, 2018.

Captain Michael Cossey, North Little Rock, to the Arkansas Fire Protection Services Board. Appointment expires Oct. 14, 2016. This is a new position.

Richard Dawe, Melbourne, to the State Emergency Response Commission. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2018. Replaces Barry Birkheard.

James "Marty" Eaton, Jonesboro, to the State Plant Board. Appointment expires Jan. 25, 2016. Replaces Noal Lawhon II.

Alan Fortenberry, Springdale, reappointed to the State Board of Health. Appointment expires Dec. 31, 2017.

Dr. Carl Fredrickson, Conway, reappointed to the Arkansas Science and Technology Authority. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2018.

James Gately, Rogers, to the Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy. Appointment expires Aug. 17, 2018. Replaces Bill Millager.

Joe Harris, Jr., Osceola, to the Arkansas Waterways Commission. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2021. Replaces Jim Frazier.

Don Hindman, Sherwood, reappointed to the Governor's Advisory Council on Aging. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2018.

Barbara Hovarter, Stamps, to the Burial Association Board. Appointment expires Dec. 31, 2016. Replaces Dr. Jacquelyn McCray.

Larry Jayroe, Forrest City, reappointed to the State Plant Board. Appointment expires March 17, 2016.

Faith McLaughlin, Little Rock, to the Arkansas School for the Blind and Arkansas School for the Deaf Board of Trustees. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2019. Replaces Henrietta Williams.

Paul Mruk, Mountain Home, reappointed to the Governor's Advisory Council on Aging. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2018.

Dr. Nannette Nicholson, Little Rock, reappointed to the Universal Newborn Hearing, Screening, Tracking and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2017.

Randy Perry, Springdale, to the Arkansas Board of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies. Appointment expires May 26, 2016. Replaces Joey Smith.

Harry Pompeo, Benton, reappointed to the Arkansas School for the Blind and Arkansas School for the Deaf Board of Trustees. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2019.

Dr. Jim Rankin, Fayetteville, to the Arkansas Science and Technology Authority. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2018. Replaces Dr. Glen Jones, Jr.

Kerri Sernel, Little Rock, to the Arkansas Access to Justice Commission. Appointment expires Oct. 15, 2016. Replaces Al Lopez.

Opal Sims, England, reappointed to the Governor's Advisory Council on Volunteerism. Appointment expires Jan. 8, 2017.

Chief Tim Stuckey, Sheridan, to the Arkansas Fire Protection Services Board. Appointment expires Oct. 14, 2016. Replaces James Sierzchula.

Daren Sweat, Maumelle, to the Arkansas Science and Technology Authority. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2018. Replaces Paul Mastro.

Thomas Washington, Jacksonville, to the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Licensing Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2017. Replaces Jimmy Langston.

To the Arkansas Service Commission:
Vernard Henley, Little Rock.
Dr. Vernon Miles, Jr., Hot Springs Village.
Melanie Orman, Mabelvale. Replaces Bettye Proctor.
Todd Parent, North Little Rock.
Gloria Redman, Little Rock.
Ben Thielememier, Little Rock. Appointment expires Jan. 14, 2015. Replaces Larry Bryant.

Unless otherwise noted, these are reappointments and expire Jan. 14, 2017.

To the Criminal Detention Facility Review Committee:
Judicial District #10
Jack Gambill, Warren.
James Morphis, McGehee.

Judicial District #13
Jim Tucker, Rison.

Judicial District #18 East
Ron Looper, Hot Springs.

Judicial District #23
Mary Eddleman, Carlisle.

These reappointments expire Jan. 14, 2018.

Amazon is testing the waters for consumer loyalty with its $20 price hike to Amazon Prime. The increased subscription could add $150 million to the retailer’s bottom line according to analysts with Piper Jaffrey, but at least one recent survey shows some shopper backlash.

The online retail titan recently announced it would raise annual subscription rates for Amazon Prime from $79 to $99 this year. The rate increases on the consumer’s anniversary date. Prime has been loved by millions because it offers free 2-day delivery on thousands of products shipped right to the front door. It also affords members unlimited streaming of 40,000 movies and TV episodes and more than 500,000 Kindle titles which can be borrowed at no additional charge.

But the hefty rate increase did not set well consumers, according to a survey by Brand Keys which reports shopper backlash may have been more severe than expected. The Brand Keys research found brand engagement and customer loyalty for Amazon took a hit immediately following the rate increase announcement. Amazon's rating fell from 93% to 83% following the price hike.

Robert Passikoff, president of Brand Keys, said perhaps Amazon underestimated the negative perception of the increase. He said consumers are always expecting more, and when it comes to online retail they operate in a “what-have-you-done-for-me-recently” paradigm.

Brand Keys reports Amazon has been ranked the number one online retailer in its loyalty study for the past 16 years. But for now, at least among the Prime audience, Amazon ranks third behind Ebay and Overstock.com.

Arvest Equipment Finance, a division of Arvest Bank, tallied $132.3 million in loans and leases during 2013, up 8.1% from the prior year. The equipment finance division has grown its loans and leases from $54.9 million in 2009, according to the release.

In 2013, AEF ranked among the top 100 largest equipment finance and leasing companies in the United States by MonitorDaily, a trade publication for the industry.
 
“Financing equipment is a great option for business owners as it gives them flexibility and the option to preserve resources for other needs. Here, we are in the fortunate position of having close relationships with Arvest lenders, and so we’ve been able to successfully inform customers about the benefits of using AEF,” said CEO Kyle W. Gilliam.

He said one of these benefits is the ability to finance up to 100% of the cost of equipment with no down payment.

The Equipment Leasing and Financing Association (ELFA) predicts that a majority of U.S. businesses will use some form of financing for equipment acquisition in 2014.

One local chef is garnering national attention named among the best of the best. Matthew McClure of the Hive restaurant in Bentonville at the 21c Museum Hotel is one of the semifinalists for the 2014 Best Chef Award for the southern region by the James Beard Foundation.

The selection process began in October with an open call online allowing anyone to submit up to two entries per category. After receiving close to 40,000 submissions, the top restaurant and chef committees were composed of critics, writers, and editors, who created the list of semifinalists, culled from the open call, for each award, according to the Beard website.

The prestigious James Beard Restaurant Awards ceremony will be held in May 2 to May 5 in New York City.

Betsy Garrison, who has held various positions at Louisiana State University since 1993, has been named director of the School of Human Environmental Sciences in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences at the University of Arkansas.

Mike Vayda, dean of the Bumpers College, appointed Garrison to the position, effective July 1.

“I am very excited to have Dr. Garrison join our team and lead our School of Human Environmental Sciences,” Vayda said in a statement. “This is such a key position for our college, focusing on human development and family sciences, nutrition and healthy well-being, hospitality and apparel studies. We’re ready for Betsy to come on board and get started.”

Garrison has served as associate dean and professor in LSU’s College of Agriculture since 2005. She also had a dual appointment as rector of LSU’s Agriculture Residential College since 2010. As associate dean, she was responsible for the Office of Student Services, which included overseeing undergraduate student recruiting, retention, advising, counseling and graduation, as well as assistance in job placement, scholarships, student recognition and awards, and discipline-related matters.

“I’m looking forward to being a part of the University of Arkansas and the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences, and I’m excited to get started,” said Garrison. “I want to thank Dean Mike Vayda and Associate Dean Lona Robertson, as well as (Vice President) Clarence Watson of the U of A System Division of Agriculture for giving me this opportunity. I also want to thank George Wardlow for his service as interim director of the school.

Garrison went to LSU as assistant professor of family, child and consumer sciences in the School of Human Ecology in 1993. She was associate professor and division head from 1998 to 2000, and associate professor and graduate coordinator from 2002 through 2005 before moving to the College of Agriculture.

Previously, Garrison was assistant professor from 1989 to 1990, and assistant professor and area coordinator from 1990 to 1993 in family and child development in the School of Home Economics and Family Ecology at the University of Akron.

Honors include the Faculty Teaching Award (1998), Faculty Service Award (2004) and Faculty Research Award (2003, 2009) from LSU’s School of Human Ecology; the Sedberry Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award (2005) and the Tiger Athletic Foundation Teaching Award (1997) from the College of Agriculture; and the Faculty Teaching Merit Honor Roll (2000) by Gamma Sigma Delta.

Garrison earned her bachelor’s in home economics education and extension from Benedictine College in 1982. She earned her master’s degree in 1984 and her doctorate in 1990, both in family environment from Iowa State University.