She believes Arkansas has been comparatively insulated from the recession due to its local nature — Arkansans tend to serve themselves and their neighbors in greater proportion than other parts of the country.

Commerce Arkansas is hopping. Arkansas Business named its three CFOs of the year; Windstream CEO Jeff Gardner provided the luncheon keynote address, and several hundred Arkansas business leaders are perusing the exhibits and networking pavilions at the Statehouse Convention Center in downtown Little Rock.

Windstream announced a major acquisition this morning, and it just so happens Windstream CEO Jeff Gardner is providing the luncheon address.

The best part of Commerce Arkansas isn’t the opportunity to hear experts in the field share their experiences and offer advice or even the networking opportunities. The best part of Commerce Arkansas is the price…it’s free.