The Business Review October 2022

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.

THE BUSINESS REVIEW THE CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY

OCTOBER 2022

The Future of Energy

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2022 | VOLUME 22 | ISSUE 9

LEADERSHIP MATTERS 4 A Letter from the Editor 6 T he Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Serves, Supports & Represents Local Businesses OREGON UPDATES 8 T he Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Political Action Committee Helps Businesses Thrive Through Nonpartisan Support PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY 10 B est Things to do at Crater Lake this Fall REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES 12 C onfederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation Secure $15.5 Million in Federal Funds for Broadband Schools for Safe and Supportive Learning Opportunities PROVIDING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES 20 C elebrating the Most Impactful Businesses & Individuals at the 103rd Annual Excellence in Business Awards 14 O regon Based Development Fund Awarded $1.6 Million 18 O ver $8 Million to Oregon LOCAL SPOTLIGHT 24 D iscussing the Future of Clean Energy at The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Forum 25 S taff Highlight: Angela Wood 30 P artner News: Lithia & GreenCars Pledge Historic Commitment, Set SOU’s Philanthropic Bedrock 32 R ogue Credit Union Hires New Vice Presidents of Consumer Lending and Business Services 34 T he Oregon Fringe Festival Announces 10th Anniversary Festival Dates! RENEWING & NEW MEMBERS

The Business Review | October 2022

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

Irmes Dagba-Craven Vice President, Communications & Programs irmes@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

The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County 101 E 8th St, Medford, OR 97501 (541) 779-4847 • medfordchamber.com

medfordchamber.com

October 2022 | The Business Review

LEADERSHIP MATTERS A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

A s we head into the end of the year, things are not slowing down at The Chamber. We have launched new events and festivals, celebrated local businesses at our yearly awards dinner, and more. This time of year in the Rogue Valley is a time of abundance and thankfulness, and when people have the opportunity to experience our beautiful region in many different ways. The 103rd annual Excellence in Business Awards was held on October 13th at the Rogue Valley Country Club. The ceremony recognized the achievements of local businesses and individuals and celebrated their outstanding efforts and visionary attitudes. There were several awards, including Member of the Year and Retailer of the Year, among others. We were proud to announce this year’s First Citizen — Roy Vinyard, the former President and CEO of Asante Health. We honored his outstanding dedication to the healthcare community in the Rogue Valley and beyond. His commitment to the wellness of our community has made a lasting impact. The first Forum of the new season was on October 17th, with Avista as the monthly sponsor. It was our first fully in-person Forum since the pandemic. The keynote speaker, Jason Thackston, Senior VP, Chief Strategy and Clean Energy Officer with Avista, discussed aspects of national and regional energy resources, sector trends, de-carbonization of natural gas, and renewable natural gas supply opportunities. The next Forum will be on November 14, 2022, at the Rogue Valley Country Club, and Rogue Credit Union is the sponsor. Tickets are available on our website. On October 14th and 15th, we celebrated the inaugural Heart of the Rogue Festival. This new event was an extreme success, drawing crowds of locals and visitors to downtown Medford. There were numerous food and drink vendors, as well as live music and kids’ activities. Additionally, the Rogue Marathon had runners from around the world, even from Kenya. The Bikes n Brews ride also welcomed riders from around the west. We are excited about next year’s event and to have the opportunity to grow this festival. The next Young Professionals Network event will be at The Chamber on November 10th from 4:45 p.m. - 7 p.m. It is a great chance to network with fellow Chamber members and meet with individuals seeking to start their businesses or entrepreneurs who want to share their stories with like-minded professionals. Tickets are available online and include light food and drink. Election Day is November 8th, and we encourage you to get out and vote. Your vote matters! Voting is how you make your voice heard. For more information on the upcoming election, visit the Jackson County Elections Office website. The Rogue Valley’s history is rooted in abundance and community. Those same feelings are alive and well today, as seen during the new Heart of the Rogue Festival, and any time you visit one of our local businesses.

Yours in success,

Irmes Dagba-Craven Editor in Chief/Vice President of Communications & Programs The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County

The Business Review | October 2022

NEXT STOP: OAKLEAF RV STORAGE

There’s nothing like exploring the world in your RV. But sooner or later, wanderlust needs a place to park when you’re back in the real world. Here in the Rogue Valley, that place is Oakleaf RV Storage. This brand-new facility provides 24-hour video security and password-gated access. Each spot includes a 30 amp plugin, and there’s an easy-to-use on site service station providing water, air, and waste dump. And you can access your home-away-from-home 24/7. When the journey is over, we’ll be here.

oakleafrvstorage.com

COMMITMENT BEYOND THE CURB

ROGUE DISPOSAL & RECYCLING has been an integral part of the community since 1938. And while you may know us best as the big red trash and recycling trucks at your curb each week, that’s only part of our story. We’re also committed to the environment, with multiple initiatives designed to protect this beautiful area we call home. From converting our fleet to run on cleaner-burning Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and using solar panels to power the Transfer Station to turning the yard debris we collect into Rogue Compost, community stewardship is central to everything we do.

roguedisposal.com

October 2022 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Serves, Supports & Represents Local Businesses

At The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County, we serve over 1,200 small and large companies. It is our goal to inspire and develop growth in our region by supporting local businesses. “Chamber of Commerce Week” was held in September — a time when we recognize the work of Chambers across the nation and how they help businesses of all sizes. Here in Jackson County, The Chamber serves the local business community by adhering to four strategic objectives:

By living locally and helping businesses succeed, we strengthen our community and work together to build a more prosperous future.

The Business Review | October 2022

Who The Chamber Serves The Chamber is a Catalyst, Convener and Champion for all businesses. We help businesses

of all sizes — from solopreneurs to major employers with hundreds of employees.

The Chamber works with a variety of industries. Industries as varied as healthcare and construction, travel and tourism, and education. We support all our community businesses as the economic driver of our region. Benefits of Chamber Membership Everyone at The Chamber is motivated by our desire to help business thrive. If you are a member, you enjoy numerous benefits. With a Chamber membership, you may promote your business through our social platforms and receive referrals from fellow members; attend a variety of networking events; become more active in the business community; represent businesses through political action; and stay informed about what is happening in the community.

As a Chamber member, there are plenty of ways to participate in Chamber activities. The Chamber hosts a variety of programs and events throughout the year, which include but are not limited to Greeters, Forum, Young Professionals Network, and the Leadership Program.

Members could also join one of our action teams and become an advocate for other businesses in the community. Businesses are the foundation of a strong community. Because no matter the size of the business, these companies are owned by our friends, family and neighbors. When we help businesses grow and succeed, we all succeed.

October 2022 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Political Action Committee Helps Businesses Thrive Through Nonpartisan Support Medford, OR | October 2022 | Contributed W hile not many Chambers get involved in politics, it is becoming much more common in recent years. Legislative action has a candidates regardless of their political party. It is neither a Republican or Democrat-focused organization; the PAC puts businesses first. If candidates are invested in policies which benefit businesses — regardless of their political affiliation— there is a good chance ChamberPAC will support them.

direct impact on businesses of all sizes, which is why the Chamber of Medford & Jackson County wanted to get involved in a way that was honest, fair and transparent. This led to the creation in 2006 of The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Political Action Committee (PAC) — a voluntary, nonprofit political committee composed of Southern Oregon individuals and businesses. The Chamber believes businesses are the foundation of a strong community, state and nation. One of the initiatives of the ChamberPAC is to support business-oriented

Prior to an election cycle, ChamberPAC Board discusses which races they want to be involved with. After that is decided, the PAC sends out questionnaires to the candidates and reviews their responses and stances on the issues. If a candidate does not return their questionnaire, they are automatically disqualified from the PAC review process.

The Business Review | October 2022

For this election cycle, ChamberPAC has made endorsements for the following races: Jackson County Commissioner, Position 1 Rick Dyer is the Incumbent (R) candidate in this race, and Denise Krause is running as a Democrat. After interviewing both candidates, ChamberPAC endorsed Mr. Dyer. Jackson County Commissioner, Position 3 Colleen Roberts is the incumbent (R), and running against Al Densmore, an Independent. After talking with both candidates, and reviewing their questionnaires, ChamberPAC was impressed with both their experience and dedication. The PAC Board has decided not to take a position in this race. Oregon State House of Representatives, District 4 Republican Christine Goodwin is running unopposed; the PAC voted to endorse her after her interview. Oregon State House of Representatives, District 5 Pam Marsh (D) is the incumbent and running against Sandra Abercrombie (R). Ms. Abercrombie did not return her questionnaire. Ms. Marsh has always been accessible and collaborated well with The Chamber in the past. The PAC endorsed Ms. Marsh after her interview.

Oregon State House of Representatives, District 6 Kim Wallan is the Republican incumbent running against Dan Davis. Mr. Davis did not return his questionnaire and was disqualified. ChamberPAC endorsed Ms. Wallan after her interview. Oregon State House of Representatives, District 3 Republican Lily Morgan is the incumbent in this race. Her opponent, Brady Keister, didn’t return a questionnaire. ChamberPAC endorsed Ms. Morgan after her interview. Oregon State House of Representatives, District 56 Emily McIntire is the incumbent (R) candidate running against Jonathan Chenjeri. Mr. Chenjeri did not submit his questionnaire. ChamberPAC endorsed Ms. McIntire after her interview. State Senate District 3 The incumbent is Democrat Jeff Golden, and Republican Randy Sparacino is running against him. The PAC endorsed Mr. Sparacino after interview; Mr. Golden did not return his questionnaire. ChamberPAC believes businesses are an integral part of the economy. By endorsing business-oriented political candidates, they hope to help businesses of all sizes thrive. n

October 2022 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

Best Things to do at Crater Lake this Fall Written by Emily Hunter, Travel Medford

With sheer cliffs almost two thousand feet high, Crater Lake is the ultimate destination to explore this fall. With a remarkable, volcanic past and several thrilling things to do around the park - give your family the experience of a lifetime this season. Fall is the perfect time to visit this natural beauty, with mild temperatures and stunning gold hues surrounding the deep, crystal blue lake. The light- jacket sweater weather is also perfect for hiking, biking, sightseeing and more. There’s so much to do and see at Crater Lake, especially during the picturesque autumn season. These are only a few ideas to kick off your Crater Lake adventure. Try them all, or forge your own path! Drive or Bike the Rim Crater Lake’s scenic Rim Drive is 33 miles long and circles the caldera’s rim. There are 30 different pullouts along the trail, each with incredible, unique views of the lake and its two islands. Grab your

bike or pack up the car with your camera ready - because breathtaking views await you at every turn. Exploring the beauty of the rim could take up to a full day, so pack a picnic and enjoy the unbelievable, natural beauty of Crater Lake.

The Business Review | October 2022

Get Your Junior Ranger Badge If you have a little that’s between 6 and 12, ask for a Junior Ranger Activity Book at the visitors center or fee booth. The books are free of charge, and provide exciting activities to do. Get your kiddos involved in the

Phantom Ship Overlook Phantom Ship is a small island which resembles a “ghost” pirate ship. It rises about 16 stories out of the water. Phantom Ship Overlook at Kerr Notch is one of the stops along the Rim Drive. Waterfalls In addition to the many hiking trails and marvelus overlooks - there are two waterfalls at Crater Lake. One is perched along Rim Drive, and the second accessible by trail. Vidae Falls is a 100-foot waterfall that drops over a group of rocky ledges. Located 3.1 miles east of the Park Headquarters on East Rim Drive, the falls cascade down the caldera in a graceful, lovely fashion. Plaikni Falls is situated on a 2 mile, out-an-back trail. Take the East Rim Drive to the Phantom Ship Overlook; you will find the trailhead another mile south on Pinnacles Road. The fall is gorgeous as it powerfully streams over the ledge and slides its way through a rock stream. Experience the glorious glow of autumn at one of the most unforgettable locations in Oregon. Crater Lake is a true marvel of beauty, and the activities and experiences you can do throughout autumn create a truly unforgettable trip!

adventure, and watch their faces light up as they earn their badge! Junior Ranger photo courtesy of Crater Lake NPS. Explore Rim Village Take yourself on a self-guided, magical tour of the historic Rim Village. The structure and layout of the village is truly a little marvel of its own, with three observation bays, the native stone parapet wall and art-influenced architectural design. Each building in the village was crafted to follow the flow of nature around them, and many features were constructed with native boulders and logs. Picnic in the Park At the southern tip of the park, Ponderosa Picnic Area has the highest diversity of plant species and densest collection of Ponderosa pines. Get the best views of fall’s colorful trees, and take advantage of its orientation in the park. Ponderosa Picnic area is one of the first places where wildflowers bloom, and the best place to take in the fall foliage while snacking on a packed picnic snack.

Discover more about Crater Lake. TravelMedford.org

October 2022 | The Business Review

REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation Secure $15.5 Million in Federal Funds for Broadband Resources are from Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Wednesday, October 12, 2022 | Washington, D.C. | Press Release

U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation (CTUIR) have secured more than $15.5 million for expanded high-speed Internet network deployment and digital skills training to improve access to education, jobs, and healthcare on Tribal lands. “Tribal communities deserve robust access to high-speed Internet so children are connected to classroom research, small businesses are linked to their customers, and families can take full advantage of telehealth opportunities,” Wyden said. “This federal investment funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law I was proud to support is great news for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation, and I’ll keep battling for all Oregon tribes to secure similar technology investments that help reverse historic wrongs against them.” “From telehealth appointments to remote learning and business opportunities for Tribal communities, reliable access to broadband and high-speed internet is a critical need in today’s connected world,” said Senator Merkley. “This funding to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation will provide broadband to residents in remote areas of the reservation and help boost the ability

to connect with health providers, education opportunities, and business resources needed to thrive. I will continue to work to ensure Tribal nations and Oregonians across the state have reliable access to high-speed internet.” The grant from the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) will invest in installing fiber directly connecting 342 unserved Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation households with a minimum of 100 Mbps/100 Mbps qualifying broadband service. “This grant will enable our Tribe to provide affordable high-speed internet services to the remote areas of our Reservation that do not currently have access to the internet. Over the last five years the Tribe has been planning and building a fiber optic broadband network to connect its governmental offices, school, health clinic and Tribal enterprises that is critical to providing essential governmental services and jobs on the Umatilla Indian Reservation,” said Kat Brigham, Chair of the CTUIR Board of Trustees. “We will be able to provide broadband fiber to over 342 unserved households enabling those families to take advantage of telework, telehealth, distance education and job opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.” n

The Business Review | October 2022

Advertise your business in The Business Review Contact us for a list of advertising and sponsorship opportunities. 541.779.4847 Business@MedfordChamber.com

October 2022 | The Business Review

REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

Oregon Based Development Fund Awarded $1.6 Million Funding will establish the first and only MBDA Business Center serving the State of Oregon Washington, D.C. | Monday, October 3, 2022 | Press Release O regon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced Business Impact NW was awarded a federal grant totaling $1.6 million

over the next four years to establish the Oregon Minority Business Development Agency Business Center (OBC). This award from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is intended to support the establishment of the OBC and its integration into the network of MBDA Business Centers and partners around the country. Once established, the OBC will provide business development, capacity building, access to capital, and navigation support to minority-owned businesses in Oregon. “Small businesses are the backbones of our communities, and the entrepreneurial spirit runs deep in Oregon,” said Merkley. “All of our small businesses and small business owners deserve the chance to succeed, and this center will be a powerful resource for BIPOC-owned businesses to establish connections, build a community, and access the resources they need to grow.” “Access to capital should be equal to all small businesses without unfair barriers for BIPOC entrepreneurs in Oregon and nationwide,” said Wyden, who’s also co-sponsoring legislation to strengthen the MBDA nationwide. “This federal investment in a minority business development agency for our state will help Oregonians of color to start new small businesses and grow their existing enterprises to generate jobs and fair opportunities for all.” MBDA business centers provide counseling and mentoring to Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), assist MBEs to access capital, facilitate growth and promote trade, and support MBEs to create and retain jobs. The services provided by OBC will include individual business coaching, contracting and certification assistance, industry-specific business accelerator programs, access to capital, connection to procurement and marketplace opportunities, and referral to additional service partners.

“The Oregon MBDA Business Center will be a catalyst for BIPOC-owned businesses to make connections and achieve their goals,” said Business Impact NW CEO, Joe Sky-Tucker. “We appreciate the support of the Minority Business Development Agency and are gratified to have been chosen to deliver these services to Oregon.” “To give Oregon’s minority-owned businesses the access they need to succeed, we need to meet people where they are,” said Don Cravins, Jr., Under Secretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development. “The greatest obstacle facing minority-owned businesses is access: access to capital, access to contracts, and access to markets. Expanding MBDA’s national network of business centers is critical to breaking down those barriers. The Seattle Economic Development Fund understands the unique challenges Northwest businesses and entrepreneurs of color face. We are ecstatic they will be operating the state’s first MBDA business center, not only to strengthen Oregon businesses, but to further MBDA’s evolution as a leader for America’s 9.7 million minority- owned businesses. We are proud Oregon will now have an MBDA business center to call their own.” n

The Business Review | October 2022

October 2022 | The Business Review

The Business Review | October 2022

October 2022 | The Business Review

REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

Over $8 Million to Oregon Schools for Safe and Supportive Learning Opportunities

Washington, D.C. | Wednesday, October 5, 2022 | Press Release O regon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced an $8,265,004 million federal grant to schools in Oregon to help provide students with safe and supportive learning environments and opportunities to help foster their success. “Parents and students deserve the peace of mind that while at school students are safe and being cared for, while also gaining the important skills and knowledge that will support them throughout their schooling and adult lives,” said Senator Merkley. “This funding from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act will go a long way in promoting the wellbeing of Oregon’s students and providing them with the crucial support needed for their long-term success.” “Oregon students and their families must be able to know schools are safe places where children can learn free of

violence, bullying, and hate,” Wyden said. “This federal investment from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act will help provide opportunities for students as well as the knowledge for their families that a classroom is a place where education comes first.” This funding comes from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) which provided $1 billion for state education agencies (SEAs) to make grants to provide students with safer and healthier learning environments. This award is intended to support school and community partnerships that pursue various solutions to more effectively prevent and respond to acts of bullying, violence, and hate that impacts school communities at both the individual and systemic levels. n

The Business Review | October 2022

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October 2022 | The Business Review

PROVIDING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Celebrating the Most Impactful Businesses & Individuals at the 103rd Annual Excellence in Business Awards Medford, OR | October 2022 O n October 13, 2022 at the Rogue Valley Country Club, The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County honored the accomplishments and contributions of local business leaders and organizations throughout Southern Oregon. It was an inspirational evening, with award recipients sharing their journeys with the attendees. The community was proud to honor these individuals and businesses, and celebrate the positive impact they have had in the Rogue Valley.

Below are the winners from each category:

New Member of the Year Award A member who has joined the organization within the last three years and become an active participant in Chamber activities and functions, whose participation has allowed that individual to rise above the crowd and embody the virtues the Chamber seeks to embrace. Winner: Elite Maintenance

Outstanding Corporate Citizen Chamber members that have engaged in projects that significantly promote employee development and who have enhanced the quality of life in the communities they serve.

Not-For-Profit: Kids Unlimited (left) For-Profit: 5:00 Marketing (right)

The Business Review | October 2022

Business Excellence Awards Given to Chamber member businesses that have achieved excellence through outstanding service, leadership and community commitment. Large: Lithia & Driveway (top left) Medium: Tribal One (top right) Small: Cascade Self Storage (bottom left)

Retailer of the Year A member with a record of dependability, success, exceptional customer service, outstanding community service and leadership. Winner: DANCIN Vineyards

October 2022 | The Business Review

Rising Star Award Actively developing leadership skills and demonstrating growth towards future goals, this Chamber member shows exceptional professional and personal achievement and an unwavering commitment to our community. Winner: Lisa Stadtmiller, Event Coordinator at Youth 71Five Ministries

Member of the Year A company or individual who has made a significant contribution to the development of The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County. Winner: Rogue Disposal & Recycling

First Citizen A community member who has made significant

contributions to Medford and the Rogue Valley. This award honors a lifetime of accomplishments that spans decades of community service. Winner: Roy Vinyard, Former President & CEO of Asante Health This award honored Roy’s outstanding and exceptional dedication to the healthcare community in the Rogue Valley and beyond. Roy has been an integral part of the community since he joined Asante in 1999. His many decades of experience in the healthcare industry have made an incredible impact not only at Asante, but throughout the Rogue Valley.

The Business Review | October 2022

The 103nd Annual Excellence in Business Awards was a memorable evening. It spoke to the accomplishments of local businesses and people, but also the challenges they have faced and overcome. Through hard work, perseverance and a love for their community, the ceremony highlighted the best in our community and how their efforts have left a lasting impression on the Rogue Valley. n

October 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Discussing the Future of Clean Energy at The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Forum Forum with Jason Thackston, Chief Strategy and Clean Energy Officer, Avista Sponsored by: Avista Utilities Seasonal Sponsor: The Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians P roviding safe, reliable and clean energy is a top priority for Avista, and a main focus of their future endeavors. During the October Forum, Jason

While working toward those goals, he explained Avista will maintain their focus on reliability and affordability, as those factors are imperative to their customers. However, new technologies to address these issues must emerge in order for Avista to achieve their goals. According to Thackston, Avista believes natural gas is an

Thackston, Chief Strategy and Clean Energy Officer with Avista, presented information about national and regional energy resources, sector trends, de-carbonization of natural

gas, and renewable natural gas supply opportunities. During his presentation,

important part of a clean energy future. In the right applications, direct use of natural gas is the best use. Additionally, Thackston said that moving to full electrification may

Thackston discussed the Utility Generation

Balancing Act, and how it is a delicate balance between

providing energy that is reliable, clean and affordable. “Avista’s goal is to serve our customers with 100% clean electricity by 2045 and have a carbon-neutral supply of electricity by the end of 2027,” he said.

lead to some unintended consequences. These could include creating new needs which may increase a carbon footprint; driving new investment in electric distribution infrastructure, causing bill pressure; and customers bearing

The Business Review | October 2022

the costs of home and business conversion to electric. To avoid such issues, Thackston said it is important to have a comprehensive view of the energy ecosystem, because it leads to a diversified approach to energy supply, which includes natural gas. According to Thackston, Avista is also dedicated to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. “Avista’s goal for its natural gas business is a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and to be carbon neutral by 2045,” he said. “Avista’s goal is to serve our customers with 100% clean electricity by 2045 and have a carbon-neutral supply of electricity by the end of 2027” – Jason Thackston

To obtain these reductions, Avista will use a multi- faceted approach which includes using natural gas supply and distribution opportunities like renewable natural gas; employing strategies like targeted sourcing with suppliers; and engaging with customers to increase energy efficiency, demand response, and voluntary programs. However, reducing

greenhouse gas emissions in their natural gas system will require not only advancements in technology, but lower costs associated with those technologies. As Avista works toward these goals, Thackston believes it’s important to be mindful of how energy is changing in the United States and throughout the world. “We live in an increasing global energy system,” he said. n Jason Thackston, Chief Strategy and Clean Energy Officer, Avista Corp.

Staff Highlight: Angela Wood A ngela works primarily with groups that hold meetings, conferences, or team sports in Medford. She was instrumental in the formation the Southern Oregon Sports Commission (SOSC) in 2012, who’s main focuses are sports tourism advocacy, event procurement and venue development. In 2017, SOSC launched the “Know Your Role” campaign. The campaign addresses the epidemic of poor behavior toward sports officials and aims to correct this problem through a series of positive messages and continued reminders that participant safety, enjoyment, growth, and development are the most important aspects of sports. This year, SOSC licensed “Know Your Role” nationwide. Angela also served as Co-Director of the first annual Heart of the Rogue Festival that took place October 14 & 15. The festival was a huge success and she looks forward to seeing it grow in the coming years. In her non-working hours, she strives to see the world one adventure at a time. Angela also enjoys spoiling her grandchildren, hiking, entertaining, and discovering amazing wine. One of Angela’s dreams is for Southern Oregon to be known as the Cornhole Capitol of the West, maybe even the world. n

Angel Wood, Director of Sales & Sports Development, Travel Medford

October 2022 | The Business Review

The Business Review | October 2022

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The Business Review | October 2022

October 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Partner News: Lithia & GreenCars Pledge Historic Commitment, Set SOU’s Philanthropic Bedrock Ashland, OR | October 2022 | Press Release

S outhern Oregon University and Medford-based Lithia Motors today announced a philanthropic partnership that will serve as the bedrock of future innovations at SOU. Lithia’s commitment exceeds $12 million and is the largest-ever single gift to the university. The contributions from Lithia Motors (NYSE: LAD) create the Lithia & GreenCars Momentum Fund, which will be used “to propel the university forward by investing in people and programs to implement the university’s and the company’s shared vision of sustainability and diversity.” The fund will also become a catalyst to invite other companies and individuals to participate in making a significant difference in both social and environmental change. The Lithia & GreenCars Momentum Fund will support: • SOU’s Lithia & GreenCars Scholarship Program, $5 million – Composed of student financial aid awards and a leadership development program designed to recruit and retain first-generation and/or minoritized populations traditionally underrepresented in higher • Institute for Applied Sustainability, $4 million – Anchored by four distinguished faculty members and two administrators, the mission of the institute will be to identify and implement initiatives that move the university toward a sustainable campus. Institute members will collaborate with executives from Lithia to develop projects and programs, such as the creation of a national sustainability conference, an academic credential in corporate sustainability, and a national sustainability demonstration site. • The Lithia & GreenCars President’s Fund, $ 1million – The fund will support the university president’s efforts to develop new ways of solving complex problems and support innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Business Review | October 2022

In addition, Lithia & GreenCars will “electrify” SOU by providing electric vehicles to the university and installing charging stations across campus. Finally, the company will continue to support the Lithia & GreenCars/Raider Golf Tournament, building upon the many years of SOU athletic programs’ successes. Proceeds from the annual tournament provide scholarships to student-athletes. “A gift of this magnitude and scope has the potential to increase our national profile,” SOU President Rick Bailey said. “This is a game-changer on two important values that our organizations share: sustainability and diversity. Lithia leaders have generously supported our university for many years, and this commitment creates momentum and a national platform to focus energy on two of the most important issues of our time.” Lithia Motors was founded in Ashland in 1946. Sid DeBoer took the company public in 1968. Today, Lithia is one of Oregon’s two Fortune 200 companies and is now led by President and CEO Bryan DeBoer, an SOU alumnus. The company operates nearly 300 automotive dealerships across North America and recently became the largest new vehicle retailer in the world. “The Lithia & GreenCars Momentum Fund provides crit - ical financial support in our dual drive to promote higher education and corporate sustainability within our local communities,” Bryan DeBoer said. “These academic schol - arships champion students from diverse and underserved backgrounds, and the Institute for Applied Sustainability will advance our commitment to sustainable best practices and the shift toward electrification in the auto industry.” Institute for Applied Sustainability members Vincent Smith, Ph.D., is a professor of environmental science and policy, director of the Institute for Applied Sustainability, and director of the Division of Business, Communication, and Environment. Smith’s research explores the complex, coupled human-environment systems that shape the world in which we live. He actively partners with communities to understand socio- environmental problems and then applies that research in decision-making contexts. His work spans several traditional disciplinary boundaries including human ecology, environmental sociology, landscape ecology, agroecology, and human geography. Bret Anderson, Ph.D., is an associate professor of economics whose research interests range from providing targeted quantitative analyses to exploring more conceptual inquiries of place-based economics. Following the Almeda Fire, Anderson and several committed community members created the Local Innovation Lab in partnership with the university to provide community-based, college-to-career mentorship to empower future entrepreneurs and leaders.

Christopher Lucas, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the Communication, Media, and Cinema Program. His research has focused on cultural policy and the relationship between digital technologies and society, especially in the film and media industries. As a documentary filmmaker, he has produced and written for a number of award-winning documentaries on themes of sustainability and the environment, including work on fossil fuel infrastructure, environmental justice, and water quality. Pavlina McGrady, Ph.D., is an associate professor of business and coordinator of the Sustainable Tourism Management degree program. McGrady’s research focuses on sustainable tourism, exploring tourism businesses’ and local residents’ perceptions of tourism impacts, management, and policies, to identify strategies for sustainable destination management. Her research also examines the barriers and predictors of corporate sustainability in the United States, as well as the role of leadership in a business’s journey toward sustainability. Jessica Piekielek, Ph.D., is a cultural anthropologist with research and teaching interests in conservation, environmentalism, sustainability, and border and migration studies. She has fieldwork experience in the U.S., Mexico, and Latin America. Piekielek is a professor of anthropology and chairs the Sociology and Anthropology program. Rebecca Walker is the university’s Director of Sustainability. She joined the university in 2019 after 15 years with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, a public agency of the Scottish government that focuses on the sustainability of Scotland’s natural resources and services. Walker recently steered the university to its first-ever “Gold” rating for campus-wide sustainability achievements, as measured by an evaluation system developed by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) and used to grade colleges and universities worldwide. Scale of the Lithia & GreenCars Gifts This new commitment from Lithia continues and expands upon a long tradition of support for SOU from LAD and its founding family. The company contributed $1 million for the construction of Lithia Motors Pavilion and another $1 million to fund scholarships for student-athletes in 2017. The 96,000- square-foot pavilion serves as the athletics home and indoor sports venue for SOU, and its construction earned a LEED Gold rating for sustainability. Philanthropy is on a significant upswing at SOU, which early this year received a $3 million donation from the estate of legendary SOU wrestling coach Bob Riehm – at that time, another record-setting gift for the university. The gift from Riehm, who passed away in 2020, endowed the men’s wrestling head coach position at SOU and scholarships for the team’s student-athletes. n

October 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Rogue Credit Union Hires New Vice Presidents of Consumer Lending and Business Services Medford, OR | October 2022 | Press Release R ogue Credit Union is excited to announce that after a thorough search, two new Vice Presidents

have been selected to join the Rogue team. Larry Abolaji has been hired as the Vice President of Consumer Lending, and Dan Ripplinger has joined the credit union as the Vice President of Business Services. Larry Abolaji brings with him more than 17 years of experience in the financial in- dustry. Most recently he spent the past seven years at CFCU Community Credit Union in Ithaca, New York, where he served as the Vice President of Loan Ser - vicing and Asset Recovery. Prior to his impressive career at CFCU Community Credit Union, he worked at BNY Mellon in East Syracuse, New York from 2006- 2015, where he was a unit manager and responsible for managing the Corporate Trust operations. Larry is a US Army veteran and holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management. He obtained his Project Management Certi- fication from DePaul University and has attended the Leadership Development Program with the Center for Creative Leadership in Greensboro, North Carolina. Larry has also served on the boards of Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce and the GO Foundation, both located in Ithaca, New York.

When asked about his new position at Rogue Credit Union, Larry said, “I am excited to join Rogue Credit Union as the Vice President of Consumer Lending. I look forward to helping write the next chapter of growth for the credit union.” Dan Ripplinger comes to Rogue with 15 years of experience building and running business lending and deposit programs at two prior credit unions. Before his distinguished credit union career, Dan was a business banker and retail branch leader for a super-regional and a national bank. Dan holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon. He also attended the Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington, an extensive three-year executive bank leadership program. “It is an honor to join Rogue’s team in this leadership role,” Dan said. “I am looking forward to being part of such a revered organization that’s focused so deeply on member loyalty throughout the communities we serve.” n

Larry Abolaji, Vice President of Consumer Lending

Dan Ripplinger, Vice President of Business Services

Rogue Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative, with an asset base of over $3 billion and a loan portfolio of over $1.8 billion. At Rogue, it’s about more than an auto loan or checking account; it’s about offering a higher level of service to nearly 200,000 members. Under the direction of the Board of Directors, Rogue is committed to helping its members out along the way, making local communities better for everyone. A mem - bership with Rogue is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in the select Oregon and Idaho counties. Stop by any branch or visit www.roguecu.org and learn more about becoming part of something bigger.

The Business Review | October 2022

To learn more about our healthcare solutions for your local business, scan the QR code or visit us at: www.healthnetoregon.com/southernoregon Health Net, your partner for affordable health insurance.

October 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

The Oregon Fringe Festival Announces 10th Anniversary Festival Dates! Hip, Hip, Hooray! Ashland, OR | October 2022 | Press Release

T his year marks the 10th Anniversary of the Oregon Fringe Festival and we are so grateful to those who have helped make it possible. Initially beginning as a group of students who were interested in presenting late night theatre, has now evolved into a multi-day event that embraces outrageous creativity in all of its forms. Through the incredible relationships that we have developed with the Oregon Center for the Arts at Southern Oregon University and our wonderful Fringe Community, we are just getting started and cannot wait to continue providing a boundary-breaking platform for free expression that celebrates unconventional art and unconventional space. The 10th Anniversary Festival will take place both live and online from Wednesday, April 26 - Sunday, April 30, 2023. While applications to present creative work haven’t been released quite yet, updates and more information can be found on our website by clicking here or visiting www. oregonfringefestival.org. About the Oregon Fringe Festival: Each spring, the Oregon Center for the Arts at Southern Oregon University produces the Oregon Fringe Festival, a multi-day event celebrating bold, innovative, and outrageous creativity in the arts. The festival is first and foremost a crossroads for emerging artists and professional practitioners to engage with each other’s creative work. Our roster includes music, theatre, visual art, film, physical theatre, dance, circus, spoken word, and more, as well as panels and workshops for students and the greater community. Now in its tenth year, the Oregon Fringe Festival is aligned with the rich history of The Fringe, an international movement exploring our innate creative spirit.

The Oregon Fringe Festival is committed to providing a boundary-breaking platform for free expression that amplifies the voices of those who are all too unrepresented in the creative arts industry. A lens focusing on equity, diversity, and inclusion will filter our selection process for all applications that are submitted. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate. If you are a person with a disability who requires accommodation(s) in order to participate in this festival, then please contact Disability Resources at DSS@sou.edu in advance.

The Business Review | October 2022

About the Oregon Center for the Arts: The Oregon Center for the Arts at Southern Oregon University serves as a creative catalyst for the mixture of students, educators, and artists from the state, the nation and the world. The beautiful Southern Oregon mountain setting provides a special place to learn, explore and train in all of the arts disciplines. To learn more, please click here or visit oca.sou.edu. About Southern Oregon University: Southern Oregon University is 175 acres of beautifully maintained campus with outstanding facilities, occupied by a committed and well-respected faculty and talented students. SOU’s vision is to be an inclusive, sustainable university for the future. Faculty, staff and leadership collaborate to achieve those ideals, and are united in their dedication to the students who will create lives of purpose and fulfill our region’s promise. SOU enhances the economic, cultural and social well-being of southern Oregon, and helps its students learn the skills to work both independently and collaboratively, be adaptable and embrace creativity. Its diversity gives SOU both texture and strength. Students’ thoughtfully shared points of view are valued and respected. To learn more, please click here or visit sou.edu.

Southern Oregon University and the Oregon Fringe Festival are located within the ancestral homelands of the Shasta, Takelma, and Latgawa peoples who lived here since time immemorial. These Tribes were displaced during rapid Euro-American colonization, the Gold Rush, and armed conflict between 1851 and 1856. In the 1850s, discovery of gold and settlement brought thousands of Euro-Americans to their lands, leading to warfare, epidemics, starvation, and villages being burned. In 1853 the first of several treaties were signed, confederating these Tribes and others together - who would then be referred to as the Rogue River Tribe. These treaties ceded most of their homelands to the United States, and in return they were guaranteed a permanent homeland reserved for them. At the end of the Rogue River Wars in 1856, these Tribes and many other Tribes from western Oregon were removed to the Siletz Reservation and the Grand Ronde Reservation. Today, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon ( www.grandronde.org ) and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians ( www.ctsi.nsn.us/ ) are living descendants of the Takelma, Shasta, and Latgawa peoples of this area. We encourage YOU to learn about the land you reside on, and to join us in advocating for the inherent sovereignty of Indigenous people. n

October 2022 | The Business Review

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