The Bikes Blues and BBQ rally is more than just a motorcycle event; it’s a cornerstone of the Fayetteville, Northwest Arkansas community, bringing together enthusiasts for a weekend of bikes, blues music, and delicious barbecue. Behind this celebrated annual event is a dedicated board of directors, comprised of local leaders who steer its success and community impact. These individuals bring a wealth of experience from diverse professional backgrounds, united by their commitment to making Bikes Blues and BBQ a premier event. Get to know the people who are instrumental in bringing Bikes Blues And Bbq 2024 to life.
Neal Crawford: The Visionary President of Bikes, Blues, and BBQ
Neal Crawford stands as the President of Bikes, Blues, and BBQ, and is a driving force behind its inception and continued growth. A University of Arkansas alumnus (1994), Neal is deeply rooted in Northwest Arkansas, owning several businesses in the region. His vision was pivotal in establishing Bikes, Blues, and BBQ as a must-attend motorcycle rally. Prior to the rally’s official launch, Neal and fellow founders initiated “Bike Night at Jose’s,” a local gathering that gauged the community’s enthusiasm for a larger motorcycle event in Fayetteville. This grassroots approach proved successful, laying the foundation for what Bikes, Blues, and BBQ has become today.
Beyond Bikes, Blues, and BBQ, Neal’s commitment to Fayetteville is evident through his past service as a Commissioner on the Fayetteville Advertising and Promotion Commission for eight years. In this role, he contributed to the organization of popular Fayetteville events like SpringFest and Mardi Gras. Further demonstrating his dedication to the community’s youth, Neal established The Skate Station, providing a safe and enjoyable recreational space for local young people. Neal’s entrepreneurial spirit and community-focused mindset are invaluable assets to Bikes, Blues, and BBQ, ensuring the event remains a vibrant and integral part of Fayetteville.
Kenneth Mourton: Past President and Legal Expertise
Kenneth R. Mourton, Past President, brings a significant depth of legal and financial expertise to the Bikes Blues and BBQ board. As the managing member of Ball & Mourton, Ltd., PLLC, his legal practice encompasses taxation, criminal and civil tax litigation, estate planning, business planning, and alcoholic beverage law – areas crucial for the responsible and successful operation of a large-scale event like Bikes Blues and BBQ 2024.
Mr. Mourton’s impressive credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas (1970) and a Juris Doctor degree from the same institution. He is also a Certified Public Accountant and holds memberships in esteemed organizations such as the Arkansas Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Bar Associations. His admission to practice before numerous high courts, including the United States Supreme Court, underscores his legal acumen. Honored as a Special Justice to the Supreme Court of Arkansas and recognized among Arkansas’ Best Lawyers for tax attorneys, Mr. Mourton’s accolades speak volumes about his professional standing. His role as Chairman of the Audit Committee and member of the Management Committee of the National Beer Wholesalers Association further highlights his financial and managerial skills, valuable for the oversight of Bikes Blues and BBQ.
Steve Clark: President/CEO of Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce
Steve Clark, serving on the Bikes Blues and BBQ board, is the President/CEO of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce, bringing extensive leadership and regulatory experience. His background is remarkably diverse, encompassing roles as an elected state Attorney General, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Judge, Arbitrator, Mediator, Law Professor, and Entrepreneur. This broad spectrum of experience equips him with a unique perspective on community events and their integration with local business and governance.
Mr. Clark’s involvement in state and federal regulatory affairs, particularly in areas like fraud, white-collar crime, and consumer protection, offers a valuable layer of oversight to Bikes Blues and BBQ. His healthcare sector experience, including managing a multi-site medical equipment business and founding a behavioral healthcare company, demonstrates his management capabilities. As former President of the National Association of Attorneys General and recipient of the Outstanding Attorney General award, Steve Clark’s leadership and ethical standards are nationally recognized. His academic background as a Visiting Professor of Law and faculty member at multiple law schools further enriches his contributions to the Bikes Blues and BBQ board.
Jeff Koenig: Community Volunteer and Philanthropic Leader
Jeff Koenig, retired President/CEO of Upchurch Electrical Supply, exemplifies community volunteerism and philanthropic dedication on the Bikes Blues and BBQ board. Recognized as the 2015 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser for northwest Arkansas by the National Association of Fundraising Professionals, Mr. Koenig’s commitment to giving back is profound.
His past presidency and current board membership with the Fayetteville Public Education Foundation and the Donald W. Reynolds Boys and Girls Club highlight his long-term engagement with youth and education in Fayetteville. Mr. Koenig’s support for public education initiatives and his service as President of the Fayetteville School District Board of Education (1993-1995) demonstrate his deep-seated commitment to community betterment. His expertise in fundraising and community engagement is invaluable to Bikes Blues and BBQ, particularly in its charitable endeavors.
Bill Ramsey: Former Chamber President and Public Service
J.W. “Bill” Ramsey, a former President/CEO of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce and owner of Public Relations Consultants of Arkansas Inc., brings a wealth of public service and business acumen to the Bikes Blues and BBQ board. With a BSBA in Marketing from the University of Arkansas, Bill’s background in public relations and business ownership provides a strong foundation for event promotion and community outreach.
Bill’s extensive history of public service includes nine terms in the Arkansas House of Representatives and former role as Prairie Grove City Treasurer. His civic involvement extends to presidencies in organizations like the Prairie Grove Lions Club and roles with the Prairie Grove Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating his long-standing commitment to community development. His current service on the Fayetteville Community Foundation and memberships in various civic organizations, including the Masons Lodge and the Rotary Club, underscore his continued dedication to Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas. Bill’s experience in both public service and the business sector is a significant asset to the strategic direction of Bikes Blues and BBQ.
Perry Webb: Chamber Executive and Community Development Expertise
Perry Webb, with his extensive background in Chamber of Commerce leadership, offers invaluable expertise in community and economic development to Bikes Blues and BBQ. Currently President and CEO of the Springdale Chamber of Commerce, Perry has a proven track record of driving job creation and fostering business growth, having led Springdale to create over 16,000 jobs since 1994.
His prior roles as executive director of the Walnut Ridge and Forrest City Chambers of Commerce provided him with comprehensive experience in tourism, community development, advertising, marketing, and promotion – all crucial elements for the success of Bikes Blues and BBQ 2024. Perry’s Certified Chamber Executive designation and his service on the US Chamber’s Institute for Organization Management’s Board of Trustees highlight his national recognition in the chamber industry. His long-term involvement with the Institute for Organization Management, including serving as chairman and faculty member, demonstrates his commitment to professional development and best practices in community leadership.
Justin Tennant: Secretary and Corporate Leadership
Justin Tennant, Secretary of Bikes Blues and BBQ and Managing Director at Verizon, brings corporate leadership and community engagement experience to the board. A Fayetteville High School graduate and University of Arkansas alumnus with a BA in Journalism, Justin’s background in advertising and public relations complements his corporate role.
His service on the Fayetteville City Council and the NWA Regional Planning Commission demonstrates his active participation in local governance and community planning. Justin’s involvement with organizations like the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the American Heart Association, along with his roles as a Watch Dog Dad and Volunteer Coach, showcases his commitment to community service and youth development. His professional expertise in management and his dedication to Fayetteville make him a valuable asset to the Bikes Blues and BBQ organization.
Reese Thompson: Treasurer and Financial Management
Reese Thompson, Treasurer for Bikes Blues and BBQ and Vice President of Commercial Banking at Arvest Bank in Fayetteville, provides crucial financial expertise to the event. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Central Arkansas and extensive experience in banking and commercial lending, Reese is well-equipped to manage the financial aspects of Bikes Blues and BBQ 2024.
His roles at Arvest Bank, including management and credit analysis, have honed his financial acumen. Beyond his professional life, Reese is deeply involved in the community as Head Coach of the Springdale Youth Wrestling Club and a board member of the Arkansas Youth Wrestling Association. His long-term volunteerism with the Rally since 2009 demonstrates his dedication to Bikes Blues and BBQ specifically. Reese’s financial expertise combined with his community involvement ensures sound fiscal management for the event and strengthens its community ties.
Conclusion
The board members of Bikes Blues and BBQ represent a diverse and highly accomplished group of individuals, each bringing unique skills and experiences to the table. Their collective dedication to Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas, combined with their professional expertise, is the driving force behind the success of Bikes Blues and BBQ. As Bikes Blues and BBQ 2024 approaches, attendees can be assured that this event is guided by a committed and capable leadership team, deeply invested in delivering a premier motorcycle rally experience and making a positive impact on the community.
