A monthly online digital publication, The Business Review targets business leaders from the Rogue Valley and beyond. This means that your published articles and advertising message are being seen, read and remembered by those who are seeking your products or services in and around Jackson County and within more than 55 Oregon communities.
BUSINESS REVIEW NOVEMBER 2023 THE CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY 2023 ENERGY TRENDS
The Electrifying Future: The road to clean energy has four wheels and a plug
New Developments: An inside scoop to Medford’s top energy consumptions
CONTENTS November 2023 | VOLUME 24 | ISSUE 4
LEADERSHIP MATTERS 4 A Letter from the President LOCAL SPOTLIGHT 6 Take Charge of Your Power 10 Travel Medford Launches Rogue Valley Bucket List Passport CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY 14 UScellular Encourages Eligible Nonprofit Organizations in Oregon to Apply for Free Mobile Hotspots and Service OREGON UPDATES 16 How Oregon Uses Energy REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES 22 The Energy Industry’s Impact on All Businesses 26 The Road to an Electric Vehicle Future PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY 30 ACCESS Prepares for Holiday Season PROVIDING NETWORK
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OPPORTUNITIES 34 The Future of Power:
Chamber Luncheon Explores Energy Landscape
36 Inside the Vineyards: Leadership Medford Tours Local Wine Industry
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A monthly online digital publication, The Business Review targets business leaders from the Rogue Valley and beyond. This means that your published articles and advertising message are being seen, read and remembered by those who are seeking your products or services in and around Jackson County and within more than 55 Oregon communities.
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The Business Review | November 2023
Promote. Promoting the community. Create. Creating a strong local economy. Connect. Providing networking opportunities. Represent. Representing business issues. Our Strategic Objectives
Meet the Editorial Staff
Eli Matthews President & CEO eli@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8526
Emily Hunter Vice President, Communications & Programs emily@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8534
Kira Zavala Director of Business
Development & Partnerships kira@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8522
Cathy Watt Office Administrator cathy@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8515
Shelly Wager Executive Assistant to the President & CEO shelly@medfordchamber.com (541) 608-8526
The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County 101 E 8th St, Medford, OR 97501 (541) 779-4847 • medfordchamber.com
medfordchamber.com
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November 2023 | The Business Review
LEADERSHIP MATTERS A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Valued Chamber Members, As the holiday season is upon us, we at The Chamber hope you are able to spend quality time with loved ones and reflect on the year. We have so much to be grateful for this year. In November, we hosted an engaging Young Professionals Network event at Lithia Motors Headquarters. The event featured two fantastic breakout speakers - Tyler Lake, CEO of Juggernaut Marketing, and Damien Rennie, founder of Millionaire Maker. They provided invaluable advice and actionable tips for our emerging leaders on topics like social media marketing and investing for the future. Our YPN events aim to propel young professionals forward through networking, mentorship, and growth opportunities. We also held our November Forum Luncheon sponsored by Avista Utilities. Dan Kirschner, executive director of the Northwest Gas Association, gave an insightful presentation on navigating current energy challenges and trends. His talk provided key takeaways for local businesses and organizations on positioning themselves for energy resilience and sustainability. See the full Business Review for a recap listed in this month’s edition to learn more about this timely discussion. Coming up on January 20th, we have our highly anticipated Roaring 20’s Casino Night. This glamorous speakeasy-themed event promises to whisk you back to the jazz age with casino games, music, gourmet bites, photo booths, prizes and more! Act fast - sponsorships will sell out! Secure your spot now to take advantage of exclusive perks like free tickets, premier logo placement, and exposure through our marketing channels. Don’t miss out on this unique branding and networking opportunity! Learn more about this opportunity right here in the Business Review or on our website! Most of all, thank you to each and every one of our members for making this year so fantastic. We are truly grateful for your support, and hope that you are out there making the most of the rest of the year and of your membership with us. Don’t forget to shop small and local this holiday season, and help us continue helping businesses succeed in Medford and Jackson County.
Sincerly,
Eli Matthews, IOM President & CEO The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County
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The Business Review | November 2023
GREETERS HOST LOCATIONS BOOKING NOW FOR 2024! Welcome 50-65 business professionals to your location on a Thursday at 8am! Showcase your business to community leaders, and get a 5-minute speaking opportunity. Space is limited!
Contact Us shelly@medfordchamber.com More Information www.medfordchamber.com
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November 2023 | The Business Review
LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
Take Charge of Your Power I t looks like Pacific Power wants to increase utility rates again in January. For a typical homeowner, power bills will be about $15 more per month, but for a business that uses a lot of energy, the increase will be significant. Now is an excellent time to
As you build your budget for 2024, consider these points: ■ Are you planning on a big tax bill? If so, your investment in solar can reduce your near-term tax burden significantly. ■ In 2024, rapid depreciation of assets is going to take another step down from 80% to 60%, with further reductions in the following years. Take advantage of this generous gift from the Federal government before it goes away. ■ You don’t have to accept another huge increase to your power bill. You do have an option to save money with a relatively quick ROI with solar. We enjoy about 300 days of sunshine per year in Southern Oregon. This is one reason for our high quality of life. But you can also use this free resource to power your business. It’s up to you, but there’s really no downside to investing in solar. Check it out!
consider powering your business with solar panels. Because an investment in solar is a fixed asset, you can assume a fixed monthly utility cost going forward and can take advantage of numerous incentives and credits, in addition to the ability to depreciate the asset. No, solar isn’t free, but it does stand out as one of the most cost-effective investments you can make in today’s inflationary market. Local businesses like Southern Oregon Subaru, Cascade Fire Equipment, Terramai, and many others can attest to the benefits of going solar. And schools like Southern Oregon University and the Central Point School District are seeing the benefits vastly outweigh the costs, even before the anticipated utility rate hikes in 2024 and beyond.
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The Business Review | November 2023
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November 2023 | The Business Review
FROM OUR EARLIEST DAYS as your trash hauler in 1938, we’ve been proud to be part of the community — a commitment that has grown with us. We’re an entry in the Pear Blossom Parade each spring. We host field trips for area students that bring recycling and other waste-related topics to life. We provide shred trucks and personnel for the annual Medford Police drug take-back and document shredding event. And we’re a proud sponsor of the arts, including the Craterian Theater. Love for community has been a cornerstone of Rogue Disposal & Recycling since the beginning. Now, after 85 years, it’s stronger than ever. COMMUNITY IS PART OF EVERYTHING WE DO.
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The Business Review | November 2023
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November 2023 | The Business Review
LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
The View From Upper Table Rock
Travel Medford Launches Rogue Valley Bucket List Passport The Ultimate Travel Guide to Adventure with Exclusive Perks and Prizes
T ravel Medford, invites travelers and locals to embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating Rogue Valley region with its newly launched Rogue Valley Bucket List Passport. This program aims to showcase the many excursions, locations, attractions, events, and many more things to do in Rogue Valley. Users can access the mobile exclusive Rogue Valley Bucket List Passport for free to accumulate points for each visited location in Rogue Valley. These points can be redeemed for exclusive Medford-branded prizes, including a Bucket List Magnet (300pts), a Water Bottle with Bucket List (700pts), and an Insulated Tumbler with fun Bucket List Stickers (1,500pts). Beyond the thrill of collecting points, exploring new locations, and checking items off your bucket list, the Rogue Valley Bucket List Passport aims to create a distinctive, interactive, and personalized experience for travelers, serving as the ultimate travel guide. “The Rogue Valley is a must-see destination, and with our promotion of the Rogue Valley Bucket List Passport, we provide a curated selection of the finest experiences for both residents and visitors,” said T.J. Holmes, Senior Vice president of Travel Medford. “We eagerly anticipate the participants’ reactions and look forward to continuing to showcase what the Rogue Valley has to offer.”
“The Rogue Valley is a must-see destination.” The Bucket List Passport unlocks access to popular hot spots like Common Block Brewing Company, Rogue Creamery, Craterian Theatre at The Collier Center for the Performing Arts, as well as landmarks like Crater Lake National Park, the Table Rocks, Mill Creek Falls and excursions like Rogue Valley Zipline Adventures and Rogue Jet Boat Adventures among many others. For wine enthusiasts, Travel Medford offers a wine-focused passport as well. Launched in 2022, the wine passport showcases the allure and experiences of wine country, while the Rogue Valley Bucket List Passport highlights the region’s adventures and marvels. These passports are freely accessible, although individual adventures include paid activities. Points can be redeemed at the downtown Medford Visitor Center at 101 E. 8th Street. For more information and to download The Rogue Valley Bucket List Passport click here . n
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The Business Review | November 2023
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November 2023 | The Business Review
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The Business Review | November 2023
Jan 20 · 6PM · The Rogue Valley Country Club ROARING 20'S CASINO NIGHT
ROCKAFELLER (1)
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Acknowledgement from podium
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November 2023 | The Business Review
CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY
UScellular Encourages Eligible Nonprofit Organizations in Oregon to Apply for Free Mobile Hotspots and Service The company has committed to donating up to $13 million in 2023 to Help Bridge the Digital Divide Medford, OR | November 7, 2023 | Press Release
T he company has committed to donating up to $13 million in 2023 to Help Bridge the Digital Divide To help provide equitable learning access and opportunities and keep local youth connected, UScellular has committed to donating up to $13 million to further the reach of its After School Access Project in 2023. This project provides free mobile hotspots and service to nonprofits that support youth after the school day has ended and provides safe, high-speed internet connectivity for homework and education. Eligible nonprofit organizations throughout Oregon are encouraged to apply. Since 2021, the company has donated more than $12 million supporting over 100 organizations with hotspots and service nationwide. In 2023, UScellular extended its pledge and committed up to $13 million in new funding to the program. To-date, three organizations in Oregon have benefitted from this project, including College Dreams, the Boys and Girls Club of the Umpqua Valley and others for a total state investment of $157,940. Nonprofits working with youth are encouraged to apply by going to www.AfterSchoolAccessProject.com if they meet the following criteria: ■ Certified 501c3 nonprofit organizations ■ Operate within UScellular’s service area ■ Focused on kindergarten through 12th grade ■ Not a school or government entity “Connecting people and communities is our mission and the After School Access Project is just one way that we’re helping ensure youth have the reliable access they need to grow and pursue their dreams,” said Sarah Pearson, area vice president for UScellular in Oregon. “We encourage
About UScellular UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to help customers stay connected to the things that matter most. The Chicago-based carrier provides a strong, reliable network supported by the latest technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. Through its After School Access Project, the company has pledged to provide hotspots and service to help up to 50,000 youth connect to reliable internet. Additionally, UScellular has price protected all of its plans, promising not to increase prices through at least the end of 2024. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. Click here to get the latest news. nonprofit organizations serving our young Oregonians to apply for this program and help us bring reliable wireless internet access to more youth across America.” For more information about the company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, please click here . n
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The Business Review | November 2023
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November 2023 | The Business Review
OREGON UPDATES
How Oregon Uses Energy W hat if you could see Oregon’s energy landscape like never before? The 2018 Biennial Energy Report from ODOE offers an insider’s look at how our state produces, imports, and uses energy. From the gas we put in our cars to the electricity that powers our homes, energy touches every part of our lives. But where does it actually come from? And how much do we use? ODOE regularly collects data to piece together the big picture. The report reveals fascinating insights, like the fact that most of Oregon’s energy goes toward transportation, heating/cooling, and electricity. It also explores emerging
So if you want the inside scoop on Oregon’s complex energy ecosystem, be sure to check out the 2018 report. It’s an enlightening read that will leave you more energy aware! Learn more about how energy produces, imports, and uses energy in our 2018 Biennial Energy Report.
trends that could impact our energy future, like renewable sources and increased efficiency.
Transportation Transportationaccounts for about 38 percent of Oregon’s 2016 energy consumption. This includes personal, passenger, and commercial vehicle fuels, both on and off the roads, plus airplanes, boats, barges, ships, and trains. Nearly all transportation-related sources of energy are imported from out of state for in-state use. When it comes to the amount of money Oregonians pay for energy, the cost of transportation fuels makes up about half. Electricity Electricity is where most people begin when thinking about energy — the critical resource that powers our day-to-day lives. About 35 percent of Oregon’s 2016 energy consumption was electricity, which comes from facilities across the western United States and in Oregon. Hydroelectric power makes up the largest portion of Oregon’s electricity resource mix, followed by coal and natural gas. With our Renewable Portfolio Standard, half of Oregon’s electricity will come from renewable resources by 2040.
38%
35%
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The Business Review | November 2023
t
Direct Use Fuels Direct use fuels include fuel oil and natural gas used to heat homes and commercial spaces, fuels used for other residential purposes, such as gas stoves, solar thermal heating, and fuels used directly in industrial processes. About 27 percent of Oregon’s 2016 energy consumption was direct use fuels.
27%
Oregon saw an overall trend of increased energy use for almost four decades—an average of 3.6 percent growth per year from 1960 to 1999. During that time, we shifted from a reliance on fuel oil and wood to increased usage of natural gas and electricity in our homes and
businesses. Oregon reached our highest consumption in 1999; since then, energy use has been decreasing. The amount of energy we used in Oregon declined by 12.5 percent between 2000 and 2016.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ENERGY IN OREGON, CLICK HERE .
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November 2023 | The Business Review
SPARK EVENTS PRESENTS
Lifting
SPIRITS EXPERIENCE
TOGETHER, WE CAN encourage the exploration of Southern Oregon fun!
JOIN US: As a well respected business or attraction in Southern Oregon, we would like to invite you to help us lift some spirits!
It’s easy! We are creating a virtual holiday swag bag that will be accessible to all Southern Oregon residents, highlighting the incredible retail, food, health & fitness, adventure and FUN that we have in our own backyard.
We are inviting you to place an ad/offer in the swag bag! You gain
brand exposure, promo and an exclusive VIP invite to the launch party on December 9, 2023 at the Historic Ashland Armory. Learn more: www.liftingspiritsevents.com An extensive marketing campaign, including radio, TV, print and social media will commence in early November.
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The Business Review | November 2023
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November 2023 | The Business Review SkyOak Capital, Inc is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor
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The Business Review | November 2023
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November 2023 | The Business Review
REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES
The Energy Industry’s Impact on All Businesses August 21, 2020 | Press Release H ow does the energy industry affect businesses? What implications does it hold for marketers? For some companies, energy is energy — a cost Energy Industry Disruptions Have a Ripple Effect
Like every other sector, the energy industry felt major impacts in the wake of COVID-19’s spread in early 2020. Supply shocks that saw demand crater in some areas and surge in others forced the industry to move fast to handle shifting needs. Prices for goods, like oil, fell sharply at the same time. The most likely effect of all this is market consolidation once the crisis is over. Interestingly, these disruptions may also help speed up the ongoing transition to clean energy. Demand for fossil fuels is often forecast to peak within the next 10-20 years, though analysts disagree on when exactly this will happen. Some industry observers even argue that we have already passed peak demand. The energy industry as a whole is moving toward a clean energy transition in anticipation.
of doing business, but not something they invest much attention or research in. As a result, many don’t think about where their power comes from and can sometimes ignore or fail to investigate shifts in the sector. Trends in the energy industry, however, often have major impacts across the business world. Some of these may create advantages savvy business owners can take advantage of — or they may cause issues for companies that don’t know change is coming. Shifting priorities and market conditions in the energy industry are having a significant impact on all businesses. With knowledge of these trends, companies can take steps to prepare for the future.
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The Business Review | November 2023
2020 has seen the biggest year-to- year reduction of carbon dioxide emissions on record, as energy demand has plummeted around the world. This moment may provide an opportunity for companies wanting to push for greener and more sustainable energy choices. Businesses Can Respond to Shifts Toward Green Energy Looking for green energy companies to partner with may be a good long- term strategy for businesses wanting to stay ahead of the curve. While oil and gas — and coal, to a lesser extent — remain the biggest sources of power now, renewables are catching up. In general, energy experts agree that an industry-wide transition to green power sources is more a matter of when than if. Consumer perception of sustainable energy is overwhelmingly positive, while opinions on fossil fuels are much more divided. Dedicating resources to working with green power companies could also help businesses wanting to improve their reputation or demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship. For example, marketing companies could take advantage of the moment to offer eco-friendly rebranding services or help businesses establish partnerships with sustainable brands and energy companies.
than ever, with prices per watt of this energy falling consistently each year. It’s also on track to become even cheaper over the next few years. Businesses that want to outfit their office with a photovoltaic solar system can take advantage of this trend. There is a wide range of solar battery and system providers available. An extension to the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit also means that, until 2022, consumers wanting to install individual or commercial systems can write off 26% of the cost on their federal tax return. Currently, solar systems are efficient enough that an office with enough roof space can offset a significant amount of its yearly energy consumption, potentially saving thousands of dollars or more. According to market data from EnergySage, the average commercial owner was able to reduce their energy bill by 89% with current solar tech. Solar innovations may soon make commercially available panels even more efficient, allowing businesses to further reduce their energy spending with office solar systems. For marketers, these innovations are worth tracking. Right now, many businesses are trying to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices. Showing off a green, solar-powered building could be a draw for some audiences. Solar system manufacturers may also want to ramp up advertising as these systems become more affordable. Knowledge of solar tax credits and potential savings could streamline marketing research for these companies. Market conditions and the coming demand peak for fossil fuels is pushing the energy industry in a new direction. Because the sector is essential to all other industries, these new trends are already having a significant impact on the business world. The pivot to eco-friendly energy sources is likely to How a Changing Energy Industry Will Affect Business intensify over the coming years. Businesses wanting to take advantage of this shift may want to consider investing in sustainable energy — whether that means partnering with a green energy company or adopting tech like a commercial solar system. n
Pivot to Green Energy Opens New Options for Businesses The shift toward sustainable energy may also have significant implications for businesses. Consumer and enterprise solar technology, for example, is more accessible
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November 2023 | The Business Review
Tom Skinner SVP, Commercial Team Lead | Dawn Hartley VP, Relationship Banking Officer
Running a business is challenging, which is why you need a bank that can help you and your business succeed. As a community bank specializing in business, Oregon Pacific Bank’s relationship-driven bankers specialize in cash management, commercial lending, trust services, nonprofit solutions and more. HERE FOR LOCAL BUSINESS
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The Business Review | November 2023
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November 2023 | The Business Review
REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES
The Road to an Electric Vehicle Future June 23, 2023 | Department of Energy W hat drives on four wheels and is good for the planet and for your wallet? If you’re in the market
for a new car, the answer could be an electric vehicle (EV). We’re going to break down what makes an EV different from a traditional gas-powered car, and we’ll also cover how an EV purchase today could help you save money, both on the overall cost of your vehicle and in fuel and maintenance savings for the future.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES 101 Battery Powered
doesn’t yet rely on clean sources of power, an electric car today emits the least emissions compared to all vehicle technologies. These climate benefits will grow as the share of clean electricity is projected to exceed 80% by 2030 because of the investments enabled by the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Opting to drive an EV is a great option for drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint throughout the country and cut back on pollution in their community.
Compared to traditional vehicles, which work by burning gasoline or diesel fuel, EVs are powered by electricity stored in a rechargeable battery. This means they have fewer moving parts and fluids than gas-powered vehicles (no more oil changes or trips to the gas station, woohoo!). But it does mean you’ll need somewhere to charge your vehicle. At home, a standard 110V outlet in a garage or driveway will do the trick, or you can consider having an electrician install a 240V outlet for significantly faster charging. In addition, more people can charge at the growing network of public charging stations — more than 50,000 locations are available today. Incentives to help you offset the cost of these charging upgrades are available to some through President Biden’s Investing in America initiatives, and you can learn more about those incentives here . Better for the Planet Electric cars produce zero tailpipe emissions, meaning that they don’t contribute to air pollution the same way gas- powered vehicles do. They also are very energy efficient and can travel four times as far as a traditional car given the same amount of energy. The overall climate benefit of electric cars improves based on the source of electricity used to charge them, with clean energy sources like solar or wind, powering the greatest savings. In 2022, over 40% of the nation’s electricity came from clean sources. Even considering the manufacturing of the vehicle itself, and even for people whose electricity
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The Business Review | November 2023
Better for Your Wallet Interested in saving money at the pump? Get rid of the pump!
By charging your EV at home instead of filling up on gasoline, you could save $800 to $1,000 annually. And for those who charge up away from home, the financial savings are typically less, but some vehicle and charging companies offer attractive discounts or even opportunities for free charging. Additionally, battery EVs are about 40% less costly to maintain, with less money needed to replace parts and for tune-ups.
These benefits make EVs a great long-term investment, saving you thousands of dollars over the years.
And that’s not all: Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, you may be eligible for a $7,500 tax credit on the purchase of a qualified NEW clean vehicle, or up to a $4,000 tax credit on the purchase of a qualified USED clean vehicle. As mentioned above, credits also exist for purchases or upgrades for your home charger/outlet to facilitate faster charging.
Our Investment in America On top of making EVs more affordable for drivers, the Department of Energy and the Department of Transportation are working together to making EV ownership more practical and more accessible by building a nationwide EV charging network across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. This venture is prioritizing rural and urban communities that have been previously underserved by EV charging infrastructure. Learn more about the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation and see how this collaboration is working to make clean vehicles an accessible option for all Americans. n
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November 2023 | The Business Review
Looking for an easy way to offer a welcome perk, or amenity, for your employees, tenants or customers? Consider on-site electric vehicle charging stations. Pacific Power is offering significant rebates of up to $1,000 per port for installing EV charging stations at your business or multifamily property, as well as free on-site technical assistance to help you understand charging options and costs.
Get big rebates on EV charging stations
For more details and to apply, visit PacificPower.net/EV .
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The Business Review | November 2023
Join us to enjoy these exclusive member benefits:
Promote: Leverage Chamber communications to promote your business, and enjoy referrals from fellow members.
Connect: Connect with the business community through a variety of networking events hosted by The Chamber, as well as through our weekly newsletter, website, and social media.
Represent: Be a part of the active business voice of The Chamber & be represented by a full time lobbyist.
Create: Raise your profile in the business community through your membership with The Chamber by participating in an Action Team or committee.
Let’s connect
Give us a call, send us an email or drop by our office. 541-779-4847 business@medfordchamber.com The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County 101 E. 8th St. Medford, OR 97501 medfordchamber.com
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November 2023 | The Business Review
PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY
ACCESS Prepares for Holiday Season Medford, OR | November 6, 2023 | Press Release E very holiday season, food pantries tend to be busier than normal. ACCESS is preparing to help more families as the holiday season approaches. “Food’s a need all year but we do see a little more activity during the holiday season.”
While food is essential all year long, meals with family and friends tend to be a big part of the holidays. Marcee Champion, food programs director at ACCESS said the holidays can put more strain on families that are already struggling. “If you think about the holiday season and you think about your holiday season, food is obviously always important,” Champion said. “If food is a struggle during...those times when you see increased need in your own household, it can be even heightened at that point.” Like other food banks during the holiday season, Champion said ACCESS is already anticipating an increase in visitors. “Food’s a need all year but we do see a little more activity during the holiday season,” she said. “It comes in waves.”
Champion said one of the key ways it keeps up with the holiday season demand is food drives. When it comes to donations, seasonal foods are appreciated but regular pantry staples are always in high demand. “The holiday season goes for a couple months, so anything that can be brought in during those times,” Champion said. “People have to eat during those times, too.” Champion said ACCESS is currently accepting donations and looking for volunteers. To get involved, click here . n
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The Business Review | November 2023
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November 2023 | The Business Review
For more than 130 years, our motto has been to do the right thing. In these uncertain times, the right thing to do is to make your life easier. Whether you need help managing your accounts, planning your business’ next big move, or you just want to chat, we’re here for you. Uncertain times call for a financial partner that has your back. Banner Bank is here to help.
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The Business Review | November 2023
Working Together in the Rogue Valley for a Stronger Community
November 2023 | The Business Review 33 541.622.8577 • 40 S Central • Medford, Oregon 97501 • cowcreek.com
PROVIDING NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
The Future of Power: Chamber Luncheon Explores Energy Landscape Sponsored by: Avista Utilities T he Chamber of Medford & Jackson County hosted its monthly
luncheon event Monday, November 13, featuring an insightful presentation on the complex issues surrounding “Energy and the Economy”. Over 200 business professionals gathered to hear from Dan Kirschner, Executive Director of the Northwest Gas Association, and gain perspective on the key challenges and opportunities facing the energy sector. With the luncheon’s featured sponsor Avista Utilities, the audience heard Kirschner provide an insider’s look at
Northwest Gas Association. His policy and public affairs expertise combined with an MBA gives him valuable insight into the intersection of public policy and business interests when it comes to natural gas and energy issues. The luncheon also highlighted Avista Utilities, the event’s featured sponsor. Avista supplies electricity, natural gas and other energy services to over 1.7 million customers across eastern Washington, northern Idaho and southern Oregon. As an active Chamber member, Avista highlighted its commitment to supporting Spokane’s business community. The Chamber’s luncheon series delivers can’t-miss events to help professionals stay current, gain new skills, and expand connections. As the region’s foremost community for business leaders across industries, The Chamber provides a platform to learn from top experts like Kirschner. Professionals left the event with timely insights into the trends, technologies and policies shaping the next era of energy. The Chamber’s dynamic luncheons deliver unparalleled value in helping businesses stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.
national and regional energy trends. He discussed crucial questions around transitioning to a lower-carbon grid while maintaining reliability, how new technologies will impact consumers and businesses, and how to encourage innovation without disruption. Kirschner pointed to the widespread push towards decarbonization and the complex landscape of economic change as key factors shaping energy policy. With energy stakeholders ranging from major utilities to environmental advocates, determining the right balance poses major questions. As an expert on natural gas issues in the Pacific Northwest, Kirschner highlighted the importance of informed decision-making by officials to foster understanding among opinion leaders. He provided perspective on forecasting energy demand, political dynamics surrounding energy, and how natural gas infrastructure factors into a clean, affordable energy future. Kirschner also touched on his unique background, with over 20 years of experience as Executive Director of the
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The Business Review | November 2023
VIDEO: HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN THE BUSINESS OF DOING BUSINESS IN SOUTHERN OREGON
Click to watch video.
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November 2023 | The Business Review
PROVIDING NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
Inside the Vineyards: Leadership Medford Tours Local Wine Industry T he Medford Chamber Leadership Class of 2023-2024 held its first meeting in September at the Chamber’s office
in Medford. President Eli Matthews and the Chamber staff welcomed the thirty-four participants. After introductions, President Matthews gave an overview of the Chamber’s mission, goals, and strategic objectives. He also shared highlights of the organization’s achievements, current projects, and the work of the action teams and committees. While the first half of the day focused on orienting participants and providing a thorough view of the Chamber’s work and that of other local committees, boards and commissions, the second half session centered on team building. Led by Team Synergo, participants closed out the first day with challenging and entertaining team building exercises at Bear Creek Park. In October, the Leadership Class focused on
agriculture and development in Southern Oregon. Fittingly, the day began at the OSU Extension Center in Central Point, where Office Manager Heidi Gehman and SOREC Director and Viticulturist Dr. Alexander Levin gave a comprehensive overview of Extension programs along with an abbreviated tour of the facility. After leaving the Extension Center, participants visited the Adroit Construction project site at Prescott Gardens in Medford. Project Manager Nick Kapphahn and others on his team led the tour of a new affordable housing site, one
of several joint ventures between Adroit Construction and the Housing Authority of Jackson County. The development includes apartments, play areas and a community building. The day concluded with a tour of DANCIN Vineyards, where winemaker and host Brie poured wines. That was followed by a hosted event at Anchor Valley Winery in Jacksonville. Through these first few sessions, participants have gained valuable insight into the Chamber, learned more about the community and region, and gotten a behind-the-scenes look at local businesses. n
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The Business Review | November 2023
everything in one place learn. shop. explore.
New to the world of sustainable driving? GreenCars is the place to start. Learn about the tech, the lingo, and how a sustainable vehicle can t into your lifestyle.
Lithia & Driveway and GreenCars support and thank the Medford Chamber of Commerce.
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November 2023 | The Business Review
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The Business Review | November 2023
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November 2023 | The Business Review
medfordchamber.com
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