Hot Springs Village Communications Committee Emerges From Cocoon Stage

On Wednesday, January 15, Clara Nicolosi, Chair of the Communications Committee, presented an update to the Hot Springs Village Board of Directors. In her detailed and informative presentation, Clara outlined the various initiatives the committee has undertaken since its inception.

Clara takes everyone back to the beginning; this is the first report to the Board of Directors since the committee was launched nearly 18 months ago. “Marketing encompasses a multitude of elements, from communications and graphic design to website development, digital marketing, social media, and beyond.” Committee members were chosen for their expertise and experience in at least one of these areas to ensure committee success. Furthermore, incorporating at least one person from the Hot Springs Village real estate community was crucial, given their frequent interactions with and insights from new residents.

Understanding that marketing impacts many parts of the POA organization, Okey Bess from the Golf Committee and Terry Wiley, Director of Parks and Recreation, were also asked to join and actively participate in the meetings. The committee was affectionately nicknamed CART (Communications and Revenue Team) by Chuck Miller, one of the initial members, with support from Pam Avila, the staff member responsible for marketing and communications at that time.

The former chairperson, Mark Smith, and the staff members identified key areas where the committee could serve as a valuable resource or pool of additional knowledge for the POA marketing efforts. The committee is updating its charter to become the Communications and Marketing Committee, which aligns perfectly with the new staff liaison, Mindy Maxwell, the Business Development and Client Relations Manager.

Committee members were each assigned specific projects to work on and report back on at each monthly meeting, covering a broad range of activities with strong support from POA staff. The committee provided input on the new village logo, branding, and village messaging. Chuck Miller spearheaded the golf promo boxes project, reaching out to small businesses and non-profit organizations. The committee offered feedback on materials for the pre-roll videos, which are now part of the digital marketing program. Jim Rice used his tourism background to create welcome packets for Stay-and-Play and Discovery package participants.

Clara collaborated with the Recreation Department on new welcome banners for the main gates. Steve Korotash provided text for the new member’s handbook and suggested warmer wording for several POA documents. Mark Smith and Susan McCarty organized Eclipse weekend events, from daily activities to T-shirts and posters, involving speakers from NASA. It was a massive undertaking with many moving parts.

A subgroup comprising Clara Nicolosi, Mark Smith, Susan McCarty, and Pam Avila detailed the Friends and Family Referral Program, which is currently on hold. The committee continues to explore various marketing opportunities across the village. Goals for 2025 include enhancing the village website content with features like drone footage for each golf hole, restaurant menus, and hours of operation. The committee aims to make the website a one-stop-shop for golf course information and update the news segment to reflect current happenings, possibly incorporating the Village Digest.

The committee also aims to improve its presence on Arkansas.com with better pictures and first impressions, define the audience inside and outside the gates, and develop cross-marketing strategies. The committee is reviewing proposals from the POA marketing firm and considering creating a village-wide calendar of events.

The committee is emerging from its cocoon stage. After Chair Mark Smith’s resignation in 2024, the committee welcomed new staff liaison Mindy Maxwell and new POA Board liaison Mark Quinton. Laura Stigall, the Digest editor, has joined the committee. Since the committee’s creation, several members have come and gone, but the committee is now on stable ground. The newest member, Alyssa Nead, brings the team 36 years of real estate marketing experience. Other members include Vice Chair Jim Rice, Secretary Steve Korotash, and Susan McCarty. The committee is always looking to grow its team and is excited about its direction in 2025.

Does the Communications Committee sound like a good fit for you?

The Communications Committee is currently seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join the team. This is a fantastic opportunity for those passionate about community engagement, marketing, and positively impacting Hot Springs Village.

As a member of the Communications Committee, you will have the chance to collaborate with a diverse group of professionals committed to enhancing our community’s visibility and reputation. Your contributions will play a crucial role in efforts to promote the many amenities, events, and unique qualities that make Hot Springs Village a desirable place to live and visit.

Applications are available here and can be submitted via email to jwhite@hsvpoa.org or in person at the HSVPOA Administration Building, 895 DeSoto Boulevard, with attention to Julie White, Assistant to the General Manager.