April 2026 The Chamber Voice

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.

APRIL 2026

VOICE

YOUR ADVOCATE FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS.

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION WORDS FROM OUR CEO WHO WE ARE.

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NEW MEMBERS & MEMBER MILESTONES TOURISM IN THE ROGUE VALLEY: WINE COUNTRY ADVOCACY 30 UNDER 30 MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS COMING SOON PROMOTE. CREATE. CONNECT. REPRESENT.

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The Chamber Voice | April 2026

WORDS FROM OUR CEO

Dear Members and Partners,

As we approach the May 19 primary election, it’s crucial for our business community to recognize the importance of advocacy in shaping a prosperous future. At The Chamber, we are dedicated to ensuring that the voices of our local businesses are heard loud and clear. In recent weeks, we have been actively engaging with a number of gubernatorial candidates, hosting roundtables that allow them to connect directly with our members and leaders. These discussions are vital, as they provide an opportunity for us to express our concerns, share our aspirations, and advocate for policies that will foster a thriving business environment. Every vote counts, and as business leaders, it is our responsibility to participate in the democratic process. By voting, we not only influence the direction of our state but also signal to our elected officials the importance of creating conditions that support our businesses. I encourage all members of our community to educate themselves about the candidates and their platforms, and to make a plan to vote on May 19. Together, we can ensure that our collective voice is not just heard but also acted upon. Let us stand united in advocating for the future of our businesses and our community. Your participation in this election is essential for driving the change we wish to see.

Sincerely,

Eli Matthews, IOM President & CEO The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

WHO WE ARE.

CHAMBER STAFF

OUR TRAVEL MEDFORD TEAM

& WHO WE COULDN’T THRIVE WITHOUT OUR COMMITTEES OUR ACTION TEAMS OUR AMBASSADORS OUR SPONSORS

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

FEBRUARY Rogue Organizer Better Car Shows

Ray's Affordable Carpet Care Snyder Property Management

Outsider Coffee Clayton Homes Commsurf Pro ProKleen Steve Thomas Realty Hicks for Senate Maria Hupe Realtor Yale Creek Ranch JW Hurd Fabrication Cornerstone Maintenance & Construction MARCH

Torus Obsidian Sky Roofing Root Jewelers Adult & Teen Challenge PacWest Cerdan Studio SignApply Porchlight Homes Ko-Kwel Casino & Resort Hub International Tandem Benefit Partners Primerica Keith Stone BG Weatlh Sharing

Indian Family Kitchen Medford Rogue Valley Adventist Academy Oregon Air National Guard Total Climate Heating Trustwell Living at Suncrest Place McAndrews Veterinary Clinic & Immediate Care

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

CELEBRATING MEMBERSHIP MILESTONES

FEBRUARY

50 Years Collect Northwest

45 Years Living Opportunities, Inc.

30 Years Ashland Insurance, Inc. Medford

25 Years Helix Inc. Riverdell Construction, Inc.

MARCH

30 Years Oregon Pacific Financial Advisors, Inc.

25 Years RHT Energy, Inc. McCaw, Lyle - American Family Insurance

20 Years Kelly’s Automotive Service

10 Years Office Technologies, Inc.

5 Years The Family Nurturing Center

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

APRIL

New American Funding PAPE Rents Capstone Accounting & Tax

Abundant Life Care Management Darex, LLC dba Work Sharp, LLC Fresh Faced Skin Studio by Zoë

CELEBRATING MEMBERSHIP MILESTONES

APRIL

45 Years Rogue Valley Transit District

30 Years Preszler Wealth Planning, Advisors with DA Davidson & Co

20 Years Precision Electric Daryn Farmer - State Farm Insurance

15 Years Cascade Self Storage

10 Years Black Flag Armory

5 Years Million Air Medford Nick Alexander Films

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

OASIS

YOUR NEW FAVORITE ESCAPE Ko-Kwel CasinoResort|Medford isyourgo-to destination for gaming excitement in the heart of Southern Oregon. More than a casino, it’s your all-in-one escape—perfect for a weekend getaway or a spontaneous night out. Stay in comfort at Compass Hotel by Margaritaville, enjoy great dining, and tee off at Bear Creek Golf Course, just steps away.

BOOK YOUR TEE TIME

2375 S Pacific Hwy • 541.772.7171 kokwelresorts.com

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

ADVOCACY The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County is committed to advancing a strong business climate by advocating for the priorities of our members. We identify key issues and represent the business community at the local, state, and federal levels.

The Chamber has invited a range of gubernatorial candidates The Chamber hosts multiple Gubernatorial Candidates

to better understand where they stand on issues critical to the state’s business community. These conversations provide an opportunity to discuss priorities such as economic growth, workforce development,

regulatory policy, and long-term competitiveness, while giving candidates insight into the challenges and opportunities facing employers across the state. Pictured from left to right: Ed Diehl, Chris Dudley, and Danielle Bethell.

Federal Reserve Briefs Chamber Leaders on Economic Trends The Chamber Board of Directors hosted two members of The Federal Reserve to discuss current economic conditions and policy concerns that have impact on employers, workers, and opportunities to invest in the community.

Chamber PAC Amplifies Business Voices to U.S. House Representative Congressman Cliff Bentz, Oregon District 2, has

attended meetings with leaders of our Chamber. Our team had the chance to ask about real-time topics in the House, as well as speak for our concerns

on behalf of the local business community.

The City of Medford has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to identify qualified development teams for the construction of the Creekside Quarter conference center. Update on the Creekside Quarter Conference Center Project

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

Oregon voters will take part in the May 19 Primary Election, which determines which candidates advance to the November general election. This election will also address several ballot measures that have economic impact to our community. MAY 19 PRIMARY COMING UP : WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE ELECTION THINGS TO BE AWARE OF

STATEWIDE MEASURE 120 Measure 120 asks voters whether to approve transportation funding changes passed by the Legislature in 2025. A “yes” vote would increase the state gas tax, vehicle registration and title fees, and temporarily raise a payroll tax that supports transportation funding. Revenue would be used by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), as well as cities and counties, for road, bridge, and transportation maintenance statewide. The funding is intended to help address rising construction costs, deferred maintenance, and declining gas ‑ tax revenue as vehicles become more fuel ‑ efficient. For businesses, transportation funding decisions can affect freight movement, delivery reliability, employee commutes, infrastructure conditions, and long ‑ term operating and planning costs. A “no” vote would keep existing tax and fee levels in place, potentially limiting available transportation funding.

LOCAL MEASURE 15-240 Measure 15 ‑ 240 is a local measure to renew an existing local tax levy that funds the Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD). This measure does not create a new tax; it would continue current funding used to support local bus service, paratransit programs, and regional transportation options throughout Medford and the Rogue Valley. Revenue from the levy helps sustain day ‑ to ‑ day transit operations, service coverage, and system reliability. For local businesses, transit services can play a role in workforce access, employee commute options, and connectivity between job centers and residential areas. If the measure is approved, current transit funding and service levels would continue. If it does not pass, the levy would expire, and RVTD has indicated that service reductions could be necessary. Make sure you are registered to vote and that your information is up to date, including address and party affiliation. Oregon has a closed primary system, meaning voters must be registered with a political party to vote in that party’s primary races. For more information on registration, go to sos.oregon.gov/myvote. Oregon elections are conducted entirely by mail. Ballots are sent to registered voters ahead of Election Day and must be mailed back or dropped off at an official ballot drop box by Tuesday, May 19, 2026 to be counted.

WHY THE PRIMARY MATTERS

Primary elections often see lower voter turnout, which means outcomes can be decided by a relatively small number of ballots. Local and statewide measures approved in the primary can influence infrastructure investment, transportation access, and economic conditions that affect employers, employees, and overall business climate. Your right to vote is important and you deserve to be heard.

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

30 UNDER 30 30 UNDER 30 THE CHAMBER’S INAUGURAL RECOGNITION

Southern Oregon is home to incredible young leaders making an impact across business, community, and creative fields. This year, The Chamber is proud to launch its 30 Under 30 List, recognizing individuals under 30 who are helping shape our region’s future.

In this inaugural edition, we’re excited to introduce the first 10 honorees, with additional leaders to be featured in future issues of The Chamber Voice .

United Strategies & Consulting LLC - Associate Isis Thornton-Saunders | 28 Advocates statewide policy for insurers and cities, delivering clear testimony that ensures local voices influence complex legislative decisions.

Alma Collective - Founder & CEO

Travel Medford - Creative Director Celeste Moreno | 30 Brings ideas to life through bold design, cohesive branding, and creativity that elevates campaigns and community storytelling.

Created a boutique wellness and fitness hub combining movement and meaningful connection, rapidly cultivating belonging and growth. Kait King | 26

First Interstate Bank - Community Branch Manager Benjamin Givens | 26 Advanced into leadership early and demonstrates a deep commitment to strengthening community impact locally.

Youth 71Five - Event Coordinator Lisa Stadtmiller | 29 Leads community events, engaging donors and volunteers to create meaningful opportunities supporting at ‑ risk youth year round.

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

30 UNDER 30 30 UNDER 30

NOMINATE SOMEONE Know a young standout? Email: alex@medfordchamber.com Send their name, age, role, and why they deserve recognition.

Travel Medford - Sports Marketing & Event Coordinator Katelyn Hanson | 24 Plans, promotes, and executes sports events through strategic marketing, sponsor coordination, and seamless event logistics to drive local engagement.

YMCA - Youth Sports Program Assistant

Lithia&Driveway - Community Relations Coordinator Julia Purdy | 23 Oversees corporate philanthropy, coordinating sponsorships and youth grant initiatives that channel substantial funding to local nonprofits.

Officiates elementary basketball, manages games and gym settings, and supports school-break camp programs. Solomon Bailey | 26

Travel Medford - Marketing Specialist Haley Sullivan | 27 Designs engaging digital content across social media through photography and videography to strengthen community presence.

YMCA - Welcome Center Associate Davik Knutson | 20

Serves as a trusted front ‑ line leader by resolving member concerns, guiding families through financial assistance, and modeling service excellence.

The Chamber Voice | April 2026

MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS

As champions, catalysts, and conveners of our community, we are committed to showcasing the achievements and significant progress of our Chamber, acknowledging the contributions that continue to advance our collective mission.

CHAMBER CASINO NIGHT

Mardi Gras

GREETERS

@ BBSI & ROGUE VALLEY SECURITY

@ BIGHAM KNOLL

GREETER OF THE MONTH KAREN KAHUSI

CHAMBER FORUM