Get to know the dedicated individuals who steer [Organization Name], the driving force behind the renowned Bikes, Blues, and BBQ motorcycle rally. These community leaders bring a wealth of experience and passion to ensure the event’s continued success and positive impact.
Kenneth R. Mourton: Legal Expertise and Community Stewardship
Kenneth R. Mourton, past president of [Organization Name], is a managing member of Ball & Mourton, Ltd., PLLC, bringing his extensive legal expertise to the organization. His practice encompasses taxation, criminal and civil tax litigation, estate planning, business planning, and even alcoholic beverage law, showcasing a versatile legal mind crucial for navigating the complexities of event management and compliance. A graduate of the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Juris Doctor degree, Mr. Mourton’s credentials include being a Certified Public Accountant and membership in multiple bar associations. His admission to practice before various courts, including the United States Supreme Court, underscores his high standing in the legal profession. His selection as a Special Justice to the Supreme Court of Arkansas and recognition as a top tax attorney further highlight his distinguished career. Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Mourton’s commitment to community is evident through his chairmanship of the Audit Committee and membership in the Management Committee of the National Beer Wholesalers Association, and his active involvement with civic organizations like the Razorback Foundation and the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. His dedication ensures a strong foundation of legal and ethical governance for [Organization Name] and the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ rally.
Neal Crawford: Founder and President, Fueling the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ Passion
Neal Crawford, the current President of [Organization Name], is more than just a leader; he is one of the visionaries who brought the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ motorcycle rally to life. A 1994 graduate of the University of Arkansas and a Northwest Arkansas entrepreneur owning multiple companies, Neal’s passion for motorcycles and community sparked the idea for this now iconic event. Recognizing the potential for a motorcycle gathering in Fayetteville, Neal initiated “Bike Night at Jose’s” as a grassroots effort to gauge interest and build momentum. This initial gathering proved the community’s enthusiasm and paved the way for the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ rally’s inception. Neal’s dedication to Fayetteville extends beyond the rally. His past service as a Commissioner on the Fayetteville Advertising and Promotion Commission, where he organized SpringFest and Mardi Gras events, demonstrates his commitment to vibrant community events. Furthermore, his creation of The Skate Station provided a valuable recreational space for local youth. Neal’s deep roots in the community, combined with his entrepreneurial spirit and founding role in Bikes, Blues, and BBQ, make him an indispensable leader.
Steve Clark: CEO of Fayetteville Chamber and Advocate for Community Growth
Steve Clark, President and CEO of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce, brings a wealth of experience in public service, law, and business to [Organization Name]. His extensive background as a former state Attorney General, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Judge, and Professor of Law provides a unique perspective on community development and event organization. Mr. Clark’s expertise in regulatory affairs, healthcare, and ethical practices is invaluable in ensuring the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ rally operates with integrity and benefits the Fayetteville community responsibly. His leadership roles, including President of the National Association of Attorneys General and his recognition as the Outstanding Attorney General, underscore his national standing and leadership capabilities. Prior to leading the Fayetteville Chamber, Mr. Clark’s academic roles at multiple law schools and his position with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners highlight his commitment to education and ethical conduct. His deep understanding of the Fayetteville community, coupled with his broad experience, positions him as a key advisor and advocate for the continued growth and success of Bikes, Blues, and BBQ.
Jeff Koenig: Dedicated Volunteer and Advocate for Fayetteville’s Future
Jeff Koenig, retired President/CEO of Upchurch Electrical Supply, embodies the spirit of community volunteerism that is essential to the success of Bikes, Blues, and BBQ. Recognized with the 2015 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser award for northwest Arkansas, Mr. Koenig’s dedication to Fayetteville is profound. His past presidency and current board membership with the Fayetteville Public Education Foundation, along with similar roles at the Donald W. Reynolds Boys and Girls Club, demonstrate his long-term commitment to youth and education in the area. His past service as President of the Fayetteville School District Board of Education further illustrates his deep involvement in shaping the future of Fayetteville. Jeff Koenig’s tireless volunteer efforts and passion for community betterment are crucial assets to [Organization Name], ensuring the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ rally not only entertains but also contributes positively to the local community.
Bill Ramsey: Public Service Veteran and Community Connector
J.W. “Bill” Ramsey, former President/CEO of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce and owner of Public Relations Consultants of Arkansas Inc., brings a lifetime of public service and community engagement to [Organization Name]. His extensive career includes nine terms in the Arkansas House of Representatives and service as Prairie Grove City Treasurer, showcasing his deep commitment to public service at both state and local levels. Mr. Ramsey’s background in marketing, public relations, and business ownership, including his former ownership of Crescent Department Store, provides valuable expertise in promoting and managing large-scale events like Bikes, Blues, and BBQ. His civic involvement extends to numerous organizations, including the Prairie Grove Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, and Industrial Development Corporation, as well as roles with the Northwest Arkansas Motion Picture Commission and Northwest Arkansas Community College Foundation Board. Bill Ramsey’s long history of community leadership and his deep understanding of Northwest Arkansas make him a valuable asset in guiding the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ rally.
Perry Webb: Chamber Leadership and Community Economic Development Expertise
Perry Webb, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Springdale Chamber of Commerce, brings extensive experience in chamber leadership and economic development to [Organization Name]. His career spans leadership roles in Walnut Ridge and Forrest City Chambers of Commerce, culminating in his current position in Springdale, demonstrating a consistent dedication to community growth. Mr. Webb’s expertise encompasses tourism, community and economic development, advertising, marketing, and promotion – all vital elements for the success of Bikes, Blues, and BBQ. His achievement of the 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 leadership has been instrumental in Springdale’s significant job creation, demonstrating his effectiveness in driving economic impact. Perry Webb’s profound understanding of community development and event promotion is invaluable to the strategic direction of Bikes, Blues, and BBQ.
Justin Tennant: Secretary, Connecting Technology and Community Engagement
Justin Tennant, Secretary of [Organization Name] and Managing Director at Verizon, bridges the worlds of technology and community engagement. A Fayetteville native and University of Arkansas graduate with a BA in Journalism, Mr. Tennant’s background in advertising and public relations is highly relevant to promoting and managing the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ rally in the digital age. His current service on the Fayetteville City Council, along with his roles on the NWA Regional Planning Commission and other city committees, demonstrates his active involvement in local governance and community planning. His past board memberships with organizations like the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and his ongoing volunteer work with the American Heart Association and other nonprofits showcase his commitment to diverse community causes. Justin Tennant’s blend of corporate leadership, technological insight, and community dedication strengthens the operational and outreach capabilities of [Organization Name].
Reese Thompson: Treasurer, Financial Stewardship and Community Involvement
Reese Thompson, Treasurer of [Organization Name] and Vice President of Commercial Banking at Arvest Bank in Fayetteville, provides crucial financial leadership to the organization. His background in business management and commercial banking ensures sound financial practices for the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ rally. Since moving to Northwest Arkansas in 2006 and joining Arvest Bank, Reese has gained extensive experience in management, credit analysis, and commercial lending. Beyond his professional role, Mr. Thompson 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 at the Rally since 2009 demonstrates his personal commitment to the event’s success. Reese Thompson’s financial expertise and community engagement are vital to the responsible management and continued growth of Bikes, Blues, and BBQ.
These dedicated board members, each with their unique skills and deep commitment to Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas, are the driving force behind the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ rally. Their collective leadership ensures the event remains a cornerstone of the community, celebrating motorcycle culture, music, and delicious BBQ for years to come.
