The Business Review May 2021

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 CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY THE BUSINESS REVIEW

MAY 2021

Tourism Returns to the Rogue Valley

CONTENTS MAY 2021 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 5

4 LEADERSHIP MATTERS A Letter from Lydia Salvey, Editor In Chief 6 OREGON UPDATES Gauging the Prospects for International Travel Chamber CEO Brad Hicks Retires Travel Medford Celebrates National Tourism Week When Will Travel Recover? New Airline Coming to MFR! 20 CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY S+B James Construction Voted 100 Best Green Workplaces in Oregon FEMA Disaster Assistance Reengagement Effort Postponed Oregon Wine Experience ® Announces 2021 Event Plans 28 REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES A Bipartisan Push for Disaster Relief Senate Passes Western Tribal Water Infrastructure Act Congressman Bentz Calls on Governor Brown to End Statewide Shutdown 34 PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY Grange Co-op Helps Youth Grow at Medford Kids Unlimited SOHS Hanley Farm Presents: Summer Thursday Events Celebrate 20 Years of Ashland Art Works Downtown Medford Business Sees Silver Lining in RCC Closing Buildings 39 MEMBER NEWS Malware is Running Rampant– Learn the 3 Moves to Stop It Krystina Pardoski Joins Re/Max Integrity as a Medford Broker A Discussion of Economic Realities 43 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

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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

Brad Hicks, CCE, IOM President & CEO brad@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8514

Lydia Salvey Editor in Chief/Vice President of Communications & Programs lydia@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8520

Kira Zavala Director of Sales

& Membership Development 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

May 2021 | The Business Review

LEADERSHIP MATTERS A LETTER FROM LYDIA SALVEY, EDITOR IN CHIEF

I n this issue of The Business Review, we’re talking about National Tourism Month. With the state and country beginning to open back up, travel and tourism are coming back, and coming back fairly quickly. Airlines and airports are replenishing staff in preparation for the incoming quantities of customers, national and state parks are seeing more and more visitors, and cruises and tours are seeing an influx of clients returning. In this issue you can read about the new airline coming to MFR, when and how travel will recover, how the travel industry is gauging prospects for international travel, and the continued tourism growth in the Rogue Valley. At this month’s Forum, a program sponsored by Travel Medford, renowned economist Dr. Chris Thornberg talked about the current national and local economy and the forecast for the future. “Thornberg focused his talk on four areas: how the economic recovery was faster than expected; how the recovery will be even more rapid due to fiscal and monetary policies; that there will not be a “new normal” in economics; and that the current housing market is sustainable.” If you missed this month’s program, you can watch it on The Chamber’s YouTube channel, or read the Forum Review written by Rebecca Scott. In other news, Chamber President & CEO Brad Hicks announced his plans for retirement at the end of this fiscal year. Brad has been with The Chamber since 1996 and has been the CEO since 1999. Senior Vice President for Travel Medford, Eli Matthews, will be taking Hicks’ position of President and Chief Executive Officer. Matthews has been with The Chamber for seven years in various positions preparing to take over this role. For more information on this leadership change, check out The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Board of Directors announces the upcoming retirement of President & CEO Brad Hicks, CCE and also stay tuned for future updates.

Until next time,

Lydia Salvey Editor in Chief/Vice President of Communications and Programs The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County

The Business Review | May 2021

May 2021 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

Gauging the Prospects

for International Travel Currently, Americans are restricted from entering many countries for nonessential trips. Travelers can check the U.S. State Department website for specific country entry restrictions, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website to view recommendations for international

Roadblocks abound, as airlines, hotels and tour companies try to balance optimism with caution. By Julie Weed | April 16, 2021 | Forbes If 2020 was the summer of the pandemic- enforced road trip, many people seem to be hoping that 2021 will be the summer they can travel overseas. But that’s a big “if.” Roadblocks abound, among them, the rise of variant cases in popular destinations like Europe and confusion about the role that vaccine “passports” will play as people begin crossing borders. The recent pause on Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine adds a new wrinkle. Still, there is reason for optimism. The number of vaccine doses administered each day in the United States has tripled in the last few months, and President Biden has said the United States is still on track to vaccinate every American adult who wants it by the end of May. Globally, the number of shots has been rising, with more than 840 million vaccines administered worldwide.

travelers (vaccinated and unvaccinated), and the C.D.C. COVID Data Tracker to monitor country conditions. There is a great deal of pent-up demand, “no question,” said Emily Weiss, the managing director of global travel services at the consulting and technology company Accenture, but there are currently no centralized systems for people to show their vaccination status. Countries and air carriers are working with technology companies to create multiple systems; the hope is that the systems will ultimately complement each other, rather than create confusion. Despite the roadblocks, the prospect of traveling abroad seems more promising now than it did just a few months ago. Here is how some major airlines, international hotel companies and big tour companies are planning for the resurgence of international travel.

The Business Review | May 2021

Air Travel In April 2019, there were about 1,400 international routes served by direct flights, according to John Grant, a senior analyst at OAG, which provides global travel data. That number dropped to 567 in April

of 2020 and has bounced back a bit to about 850 direct routes now, he said. “We are unlikely to see all or even the majority of

Patrick Quayle, the vice president of the United Airlines’ international network, said the company had been adding more flights to countries that were open, but was uncertain when additional destinations like Canada — which is currently closed to American tourists and which has recently seen a rise in cases — would be added to that list. United is trying to be nimble, he said, so “if something were to open up, we can put our aircraft in the sky quickly.” At American Airlines, new routes are planned this summer from New York to Athens and Tel Aviv, and from Miami to Suriname and Tel Aviv. (Israel has announced it would allow some vaccinated tourists into the country beginning May 23.) American also announced it was restarting a number of flights to Europe. Beyond that, the company won’t speculate on where air travel will open next. Both United and American have added information to their websites to help travelers plan for international requirements. United Airlines’ Travel-Ready Center allows passengers with booked tickets to view country-specific entry requirements and schedule tests, and will soon allow customers to upload and store their vaccination records on the website before they travel. American’s online travel tool on the company’s website already allows passengers to store required documents like proof of negative coronavirus tests. One airline that has been focusing on flights between the United States and international destinations is not a U.S. carrier, but a Middle Eastern one: Emirates. The United Arab Emirates opened up to leisure and business travelers last July and Emirates is already continued on page 8

American also announced it was restarting a number of flights to Europe. Beyond that, the company won’t speculate on where air travel will open next.

international markets that were served from the United States fully opened during the summer season, despite the best hopes of the airlines,” Mr. Grant said. As travel restrictions are loosened in some places though, airlines are responding quickly. When Iceland announced on March 16 that it would allow all vaccinated travelers into the country, Delta Air Lines followed soon after with an announcement that in May it would resume its Iceland routes from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Minneapolis St. Paul Airport, and offer a new route from Boston. Some airlines seem to be eyeing May to expand international flights as vaccines become more available, and it’s been reported that the Biden administration may cancel existing travel restrictions for foreign nationals coming from Britain, Europe and Canada, around mid-May. Still, the market is very much in flux, Mr. Grant said, so even though airlines may be increasing their flight schedules, they will continue to adjust to demand, possibly consolidating some of the flights. United Airlines plans to increase international flights, but will still be operating just about half of its 2019 schedule. Among the flights it is eyeing are those between Chicago and Tokyo’s Haneda airport and Tel Aviv. The company also plans to increase service from Los Angeles to Sydney and Tokyo Narita. Beach destinations that are open to Americans have seen an increase in demand and United is scheduling 90 more flights per week to or from the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America than it had in May 2019.

May 2021 | The Business Review

Clinic to create its Global Care and Cleanliness Commitment. Those practices will “remain in place during the pandemic and beyond,” Amy Weinberg, Hyatt’s senior vice president of loyalty, brand marketing and consumer insights, wrote in an email. “With pent-up demand for travel and increased distribution of vaccines, we expect leisure travel to continue to lead the recovery, followed by increasing demand from group business and business travelers,” Ms. Weinberg wrote. The company announced at the end of March that it was reopening its Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz, France, one of its last remaining closed properties. Almost all Hyatt properties have been open since last December, and in February the company began arranging for guests staying at Hyatt resorts in Latin America who planned to travel back to the United States to get free on-site coronavirus testing. IHG’s Kimpton brand with 73 hotels in 11 countries plans on modifying its protocols this summer where it feels they are safe and local ordinances allow — for example, bringing back the manager-hosted social hour, a guest favorite. The four Kimpton hotels in Britain that closed because of the pandemic are currently scheduled to reopen by the end of May. A new Kimpton property in Bangkok that opened in October of 2020 to local guests will welcome international travelers this fall. The company also plans to open a new hotel in Bali and one in Paris later this year. “Hoteliers are chafing at the bit” to reopen and are able to do so quickly, said Robin Rossman, the managing director of the hospitality analytics company STR. The global hotel sector, though, will likely take up to two years to make a full return, he said. Tour Companies Despite the uncertainties, demand for international tours is building and like the airlines, tour companies are ramping up. Trips that emphasize the outdoors and uncrowded places are especially popular. The San Francisco-based Geographic Expeditions, which did not run any trips last summer, reported that its bookings have picked up significantly in the past few

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offering direct service to Dubai from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Washington, D.C., New York and Boston. Passengers can also connect from there to other destinations in the Middle East, Africa and West Asia. The company recently announced it would resume its flight between Newark and Athens on June 1. Hotel Stays While global hotel companies are preparing for more guests, they are also keeping their focus on the health and cleaning protocols they put in place during the pandemic. Some have been adding on-site virus testing. In addition, so-called “touchless technology,” like phone apps for ordering food, will continue to be rolled out. A report by Medallia Zingle, a communications software maker, found that 77 percent of consumers surveyed said the amount of in-person interaction required at a business will factor into their decision on whether or not they visit that business. Marriott, one of

the world’s largest international hotel companies, with some 7,600 hotels under 30 brands, has implemented a set of practices it calls Commitment to Clean that includes sanitizing properties with hospital-grade disinfectants, using air-purifying systems and spreading out lobby furniture to facilitate social distancing. Some

The four Kimpton hotels in Britain that closed because of the pandemic are currently scheduled to reopen by the end of May. Above, the Kimpton Fitzroy London

properties offer free coronavirus testing. Recently the company announced a pilot program introducing self-serve check-in kiosks that create room keys and allow guests to bypass the front desk. It is also adding more “grab and go” food options. Hyatt, another major international brand, is also continuing to focus on cleanliness. Currently, it is working with the Global Biorisk Advisory Council and Cleveland

The Business Review | May 2021

months. It plans to run 20 international trips this summer, both to familiar destinations such as the Galápagos, and some off the beaten path, including Pakistan and Namibia. There are only about 25 percent fewer guests signed up now than there were for 2019 summer trips, according to the chief executive, Brady Binstadt, and they are “spending more than before — they’re splurging on that nicer hotel suite or charter flight or special experience.” The company chose its first destinations based on entry requirements and client interest and then adjusted itineraries to avoid crowds, minimize internal flights and make sure guests had access to required testing. One expedition required flying a Covid-19 test into a safari lodge in Botswana via helicopter. A guest recently moved a Geographic Expeditions trip planned for 2022 departure forward to 2021. The company hopes this will become a trend. Abercrombie & Kent restarted its small-group and private trips last fall and early winter to places like Egypt, Costa Rica and Tanzania,

and is continuing to expand choices as countries open up. “There’s been a noticeable spike in people calling who have had their first vaccine,” said Stefanie Schmudde, the vice-president of product development and operations. Bookings in

March rose more than 50 percent over bookings in February, according to the company. Ms. Schmudde monitors global travel conditions intently, and can rattle off names of countries that have been open to tourists for a few months and those she expects to open soon. She predicts Japan and China will open up this fall, but does not expect Europe to welcome many visitors any time soon. n

Despite the uncertainties, demand for international tours is building and like the airlines, tour companies are ramping up.

May 2021 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

Chamber CEO Brad Hicks Retires The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Board of Directors announces the upcoming retirement of President & CEO Brad Hicks, CCE B rad Hicks, CCE, IOM and President & CEO of The Chamber of Medford United States. Under Hicks’ leadership, The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County became an advocacy powerhouse through introducing many key programs, including the Chamber Latino Network scholarship program that awarded over $300,000 to students. Hicks and The Chamber also led the efforts which resulted in the SOU/RCC Higher Education Center, U.S. Cellular

& Jackson County is retiring from his position, effective

Community Park, Rogue Credit Union Community Complex, and nearly a billion dollars in regional transportation infrastructure projects. Under Hicks’ leadership, The Chamber has won numerous state, regional and national industry awards, including Hicks winning the Chamber Executive of the Year from both the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce and the Western Association of Chamber Executives. Hicks has built relationships between business, education, and government leaders that have resulted in elevating the voice of the region from City Hall, to the County Courthouse, to the Oregon State Capitol and the United States Capitol. Hicks also earned the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) certification making him the only current chamber CEO to hold that designation in the State of Oregon. The CCE certification is considered the highest professional development designation in the chamber of commerce industry with just a little over 500 individuals in the United States achieving the feat in over 50 years. Additionally, Hicks was named to the prestigious United

June 30, 2021. Hicks signaled

his intentions to The Chamber’s leadership team late last year to allow adequate time for the Board of Directors to determine the direction of the organization. The

Brad Hicks

Chamber of Medford & Jackson County has served as the voice of business in southern Oregon for over 100 years, with Hicks serving as President & CEO since the end of 1999. He has been with The Chamber since 1993. During Hicks’ tenure, The Chamber at several points nearly doubled in membership size to over 1,700 members, making it often the largest chamber of commerce in the State of Oregon and in the western

The Business Review | May 2021

States Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100. Widely considered to be composed of the top 100 chambers of commerce and chamber CEOs in the country, the Committee of 100 meets several times a year with U.S. Chamber leadership to ensure the national organization receives feedback from local and state chambers of commerce on behalf of their respective areas. In 2018, Hicks was elected Chair of the Board for the Western Association of Chamber Executives (WACE) becoming the first chamber CEO from the State of Oregon to serve this role in the organization’s history. Hicks led an effort to grow the association’s membership and reached an all- time high for WACE and capped his term by bringing the association’s annual conference to Oregon, also a first in the association’s history. In announcing Hicks’ retirement, Chamber Board Chair Jessica Gomez of Rogue Valley Microdevices noted, “the Board of Directors and I appreciate the almost 30 years of service that Brad has contributed to the growth and success of The Chamber and our region. At the time of Brad’s hiring, the board hoped to grow the size, budget, and influence of The Chamber, but no one could have imagined the heights to which Brad would take us. To have a chamber of our caliber in a community of our size is really unparalleled in the country.” Chamber Chairman-Elect, Travis Snyder of Precision Electric stated, “at every meeting, my appreciation of Brad’s leadership and admiration for how much he loves our community grows. In sports they talk about players with a high motor and unmatched work ethic. Brad is one of those players who never takes a single play off.” Snyder continued, “we understand that finding Brad’s replacement would have been a difficult proposition which is why Brad has been working on this succession plan casually for seven years and aggressively for the last two years to prepare Eli Matthews, current Senior Vice President of Travel Medford, to succeed him.”

Hicks will maintain an advisory role with The Chamber for the next twelve months. Hicks stated, “it’s rare to have the opportunity to do something you love in the place you love. Equally, having grown up in southern Oregon, I was able to work alongside lifelong friends whom I also love. I’ve gotten to travel the country and the world, meet with heads of state, and shape, hopefully for the better, the place I’ve called home most of my life. To have served in this capacity has been the privilege of a lifetime.” When asked why now, Hicks replied, “while I could always find new reasons to continue on, I wanted to get The Chamber back on solid footing, help get our business community, and community at large, through the darkest days of the pandemic, as well as the catastrophic wildfires by helping to secure financial relief and advocacy direction. Now that it appears there is light at the end of the tunnel, I feel good about passing the torch.” The organization has been working on Hicks’ succession plan in a variety of stages over time, culminating in the Board’s recent unanimous decision to hire Eli Matthews to lead the organization as Hicks’ successor. Hicks added, “I have every confidence that we already have the experienced and capable individual, in Eli, necessary to lead The Chamber in its role as one of the leading business development organizations in the State of Oregon. I look forward to our chamber accomplishing even greater things in the days ahead.” In continuing his personal mission of advocacy and helping businesses succeed, Hicks has formed R.B.I., LLC (Representing Business Issues) a consultancy which will focus on organization management, strategic planning, facilitation, coaching and advocacy for clients at the local, regional, and national levels. On behalf of The Chamber Board of Directors, Chamber staff, and countless volunteers over the last 30 years, thank you Brad for your passion, courage, and leadership in moving our region and our community forward. n

Photos, from left to right: Addressing WACE Conference as Chairman of the Board. With Jim Belushi at Holly Theatre Wall Breaking. At Chamber Forum with Scott Morris, Brad’s first Board Chair. Throwing the First Pitch at Medford Rogues Game. Discussing Association Health Plans for chambers of commerce with Labor Secretary Acosta.

May 2021 | The Business Review

The Business Review | May 2021

May 2021 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

Travel Medford Celebrates National Tourism Week I n celebration of National Tourism Week, Travel Medford saw an increase in numbers over the past year during COVID. Outdoor attractions were hot for tourists trying to stay clear of the virus and Crater Lake enjoyed more than 670,500 people during 2020, many months record visitations.

is proud to highlight some of our region’s amazing assets and what drives visitors to the Rogue Valley. As we head into the summer months, Southern Oregon continues to see a strong increase in visitation and hotel occupancy, an indicator of the travel market’s rebound and tourist interest in more rural locations and outdoor activities. Medford and the Rogue Valley are an ideal for those seeking a sunny location offering outdoor recreation, wine, and a multitude of family-friendly opportunities. • Crater Lake National Park: Oregon’s only national park is the number one driver of visitors to our region and

• Rogue Valley Wine Country: The Rogue Valley’s award- winning wines are quickly growing in popularity as our region is being touted as a global wine destination. In fact, during the past decade, the Rogue Valley has increased its grape production by more than 5%, making it the highest growth region in Oregon. During May, Oregon celebrates Oregon Wine Month and its vineyards, growers, producers and makers that bring it to fruition. And during Oregon Wine Month, it’s easy for visitors to take Oregon

The Business Review | May 2021

Crater Lake

and Rogue Valley wine country home with Alaska Airlines membership benefit of Wines Fly Free. • Sporting Events: Sports tourism in the United States is a $1.6 billion industry and Medford is seeing growth in our regions, as well. The Rogue Valley is a recreational and youth sports mecca of the west with its ideal location between Seattle and San Francisco. Each year, thousands of teams descend upon the US Cellular Community Park to enjoy soccer, softball, baseball, football and more at the complex which boasts an annual economic impact of more than $12.2 million. To round out the region’s recreational sports offerings, in 2023, Medford will be home to the Rogue Credit Union Community Complex which will house hundreds of indoor sports, recreation and meeting opportunities on its courts and in its meeting

spaces. It will also boast an indoor competitive pool, recreational pool, water park and slides! The Rogue Valley is anticipating continued tourism growth over the coming years, which helps fuel our region’s economy and boost its overall appeal. n

Del Rio Winery

U.S. Cellular Community Park

May 2021 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES OREGON UPDATES

When Will Travel Recover? By JT Genter and Caroline Lupini | Forbes | February 11, 2021 A lmost a year ago, the novel coronavirus locked down the world. Over 100 million people are confirmed to have been infected and Covid-19 has killed over 2 million people worldwide. In addition to the health tragedy, the raging pandemic has severely affected industries from entertainment to restaurants. One of the hardest hit sectors has been the travel industry. International borders closed in spring 2020 and some have remained closed since. Who knows when travelers will be able to visit Australia or New Zealand again—which have both managed to virtually eliminate local spread. While domestic U.S. travel has seen relatively few restrictions, there are now discussions of requiring Covid testing even before domestic flights. That’s sure to reduce the spread, but it would also deliver another crushing blow to an already struggling industry. So, when will travel recover? That’s the $8.9 trillion question. With emerging new variants and vaccine distribution delays, that’s a question that we can only guess at the answer to. Still, it’s a question so many of us are asking right now. So, we talked to travel experts from all parts of the industry to get their best guess.

The Business Review | May 2021

Travel Will Recover in Stages Perhaps no one has a better finger on the pulse of the airline industry than Edward “Ned” Russell, an Airlines Reporter for Skift. We checked in with him about when he thought Americans would take to the skies en masse once again. Not surprisingly, he sees the recovery in air travel closely tied to vaccine distribution. Ned sees a strong recovery for leisure travel “as vaccines become widely available later this year.” That will be a boon for airlines that cater to “budget-minded holiday-goers.” However, business travel won’t be as quick to return. Ned estimates the return of “these coveted passengers” will still take a few years. Likewise, Ned notes that “international travel will take longer to recover than domestic,” with the recovery happening in stages. He sees the return of travel “between allies and developed countries”—like the U.S. and the United Kingdom—coming back “sooner than in markets that struggle to get vaccines in people’s arms.” Travelers are Booking Cheap Flights Now Optimistic travelers aren’t waiting to get the vaccine to start booking flights. “We hear from members every day who are booking cheap flights for future travel,” notes Scott Keyes, Founder and Chief Flight Expert at Scott’s Cheap Flights. Scott sees a combination of factors driving these bookings. First, travelers are expecting the widespread availability of vaccines in the next few months and hope that this will unlock international travel once again. Also, it’s fairly low risk for travelers to book travel now. Many airlines are currently offering flexibility on flight bookings—even in basic economy. Travelers can use this flexibility to “push their travel back with no penalty if they don’t feel it’s safe come their original travel dates.” Beyond this flexibility, airlines are also tempting travelers with low fares. Scott’s Cheap Flights has found “record low fares on many routes, and travelers are locking those prices in for travel months down the line.” “In essence, many of our members are making future travel plans in pencil rather than in pen,” Scott observes. “If they’re able to get vaccinated soon, then they’ve got a cheap summer flight to look forward to. If there’s big delays in vaccination or border restrictions continue, they can push travel dates back without penalty.” Once travelers are able to take to the skies again, Scott thinks that favorite destinations will be especially in demand. After all, “people didn’t spend the past 12 months cooped up, eagerly awaiting the day when they can get out and travel again, only to make their first trip somewhere halfway down their bucket list. Instead, people are going to want to visit places at the top of their bucket lists.”

Scott sees iconic destinations—such as Paris, Rome, Tokyo, Sydney, Rio—surging in popularity once the pandemic is over as “travelers seek to make up for lost time.” Another Ruined Spring Break, But Hope for Summer Speaking of lost time, families are quickly approaching what’s likely to be another ruined spring break. “We all hoped spring break 2021 would be ‘normal’,” pines Summer Hull—Director of Travel Content for The Points Guy—but “we now know that’s not the case.” Summer—who’s also been known by the Mommy Points moniker since 2011—has found that “some schools and colleges are forgoing spring break completely this year.” For families that are getting a spring break, not all are going to take advantage. “The families that haven’t really been traveling since March are likely to sit out spring break and try again in the summer.” For the families that do travel for spring break, “we expect to continue to see a preference given to domestic and drivable locations.” Entry restrictions may also come into play. So, families seeking sun may head to Florida while those seeking snow may head to Utah or Colorado. She sees a fair number of road trips this summer. “But don’t rule out the sky.” She knows that “lots of families are sitting on airline credits from canceled 2020 trips and those credits won’t last forever.” So, as soon as families feel it is safe to do so, “it will be wheels-up to see grandparents, head to that destination beach, or to redeem those Disney tickets.” Points & Miles Travelers Have Pent-Up Demand Too The elimination of change fees isn’t just helping convince travelers to book cash tickets. Many airlines have also eliminated change fees on award tickets. And a lot of travelers have built up quite a massive stockpile of points and miles that they’re ready to use to book trips. “Travelers are chomping at the bit to get back out there,” notes Spencer Howard, who runs Straight to the Points— an email subscription service sharing premium cabin award travel deals. At this point, travelers see the “light at the end of the tunnel” and are excited to book anything. Spencer believes that 2021 is the year of “revenge travel” after travelers were left disappointed that they had to cancel all of their trips in 2020. He sees that award travelers are mostly booking trips later in the year. However, some award travelers are hoping to travel internationally again as soon as this summer. For each deal alert that he sends out, Spencer quickly hears back from numerous subscribers that are happy

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to travel in Hong Kong and Asia-Pacific more broadly. And, unfortunately, the outlook for travel is grim. “I am not wholly optimistic for Asia to open its borders and arms to mass travel in 2021,” Danny concludes. Perhaps travel will start to recover in late 2021. But, Danny believes that “many health-based requirements will stick and compromises by travelers will need to be accepted for the foreseeable future.” That’s due to the differing approaches that different regions have taken for the coronavirus. “The Asia Pacific has shown largely how to keep the coronavirus at bay or in check when strict measures in the community and at borders are implemented.” However, since the region has generally done an incredible job reducing the spread, vaccinations aren’t a priority now. Instead, Danny believes it will be “incumbent on other countries to still rid itself of the virus and have some vaccination defense in order to be considered a trusted travel partner in the post-pandemic era of travel.” For now, there’s still hope for “travel bubbles” between regions that have kept the virus under control. However, Danny points to “the Hong Kong-Singapore quarantine- free travel arrangement failing to launch on the eve of its official start sums up the hard reality and the high barrier to travel governments have placed in order to protect local communities.” Bottom Line Whether it’s booking aspirational award travel, a deal to Europe or a trip to see Grandma, experts are finding that travelers are mentally ready to travel once again. However, getting control of the coronavirus is critical to travel’s recovery—whether that’s through vaccines or community spread controls, or more likely, some combination of the two. But, travelers aren’t waiting for everything to recover before starting to book. Savvy travelers are already taking advantage of unprecedented flexibility and low fares from airlines and hotels to book deals now. After all, they know that they can change or cancel these trips later if it’s not safe to travel. It’s important to keep in mind that some destinations will likely remain off-limits. Countries that either don’t have access to vaccines or have focused on eliminating local spread may continue to be closed to international travelers long after other destinations open up. So, while travel may begin to recover in summer 2021, it might be fall of 2021 or even 2022 before the travel industry recovers worldwide. n

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to report that they’ve booked the deal. “People feel good about making speculative bookings,” Spencer notes “especially for the fall.” He sees a lot of travelers booking trips for October and November 2021. But, whether or not these trips will happen is “in flux depending on how the vaccine is rolled out.” Travelers also realize some destinations will take longer to recover than others. For example, many subscribers are excited to visit Australia again, but they realize that it’s likely going to be at least 2022 before they can head down under. Asia-Pacific Travel Recovery May be Slower In early February 2020, I flew to Hong Kong to report on how the novel coronavirus was impacting the Asian financial and transportation hub. From mask requirements and temperature checks to health questionnaires, Hong Kong implemented key preventative measures early on. I may have stepped off the plane with my airline-provided surgical mask on inside out, but I knew just who to talk with about the situation: Danny Lee, the Senior Aviation Reporter for the South China Morning Post. I checked back with Danny about when he sees a recovery

The Business Review | May 2021

OREGON UPDATES

New Airline Coming to MFR! America’s first new mainline airline in nearly 15 years, Avelo Airlines is coming to MFR A merica’s first new mainline airline in nearly 15 years — Avelo Airlines — premiered today at Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) with travel- inspiring routes and bag-packing low fares. Introductory one-way fares start at $19 on all routes. Avelo will offer everyday low fares coupled with a smooth and convenient travel experience, flying non-stop unserved routes 4x weekly between BUR and MFR - Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport. Flights

are open for booking at aveloair.com starting today at 8 a.m. PDT / 11 a.m. EDT, The first flight is scheduled to arrive May 9, 2021.

“We are so pleased to partner with Avelo Airlines to make that connection between Burbank and the Rogue Valley. Two very proud and cultural communities offering much different experiences; and now our communities are bridged by only a couple hours of travel. Medford is 1 of 11 communities to make the first round of routes for Avelo’s brand new air service”, stated Jerry Brienza, Airport Director. The airline will initially operate single-class, fuel-efficient 189-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft – offering a more comfortable experience than the regional aircraft often utilized by the airports Avelo serves. Avelo’s surprisingly low everyday fares include no change fees or call center fees for Customers who choose to make reservations by phone. Avelo takes every precaution to protect Customer health at the airport and during their flight. Avelo airplanes are regularly cleaned and disinfected. Tray tables, galleys, lavatories and all other touch surfaces are sanitized every evening with Calla 1452 (hospital-grade) disinfectant. In addition to disinfecting and cleaning daily, Avelo treats the

entire airplane regularly with an advanced antimicrobial protectant that kills viruses, germs and bacteria on all surfaces. This Zoono treatment forms a colorless, odorless protective shield and is safe to human contact. Additionally, the cabin air is refreshed every two to three minutes by the Boeing 737’s top-down air filtration and ventilation system. The system directs air flow from the ceiling to the bottom of the seat — not front to back — and greatly reduces particle movement throughout the cabin. All Avelo airplanes operate with HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters that remove 99.9% of air particles, including viruses like the coronavirus, in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. All Customers will receive a convenience package containing a hand sanitizer, as well as a bottled water and small snack. Federal law requires everyone — including Avelo Customers and Crewmembers — to wear a face mask at the airport and on the aircraft (unless eating or drinking). n

May 2021 | The Business Review

CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY

S+B James Construction Voted 100 Best Green Workplaces in Oregon Medford, OR | April, 2021 | Press Release

S+B James President, Allen Purdy

S +B James Construction has been voted as one of the 100 Best Green Workplaces in Oregon for 2021. This ranking, surveyed by Oregon Business, shows that S+B James has implemented a variety of green policies, and that our employees place a high value on sustainable practices and believe that our commitment to them is sustainable. “We are honored to be acknowledged as one of the top green workplaces in Oregon,” said S+B James President, Allen Purdy. “This award recognizes our fantastic, value- driven employees who care deeply about the longevity of the projects we build, the environment we work in and helping to make a positive difference in the communities we serve.” Every year, Oregon Business conducts an anonymous survey to rank businesses and nonprofit organizations on their green practices. Employees rate their satisfaction with, and the importance they attach to 11 statements related to workplace sustainable practices, such as green mission and goals, recycling and waste reduction, support for public transit, energy and water conservation, and buying local. Employers are also independently scored on 15 questions about sustainability practices. S+B James is committed to not only a green workplace, but in creating projects that are environmentally friendly. They work

closely with their clients to identify green building design opportunities that will achieve their project goals. S+B James strives to be an industry leader in green design and construction and are a member in the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). They design their projects to be as energy efficient as possible, often exceeding building and energy code standards while assisting their clients in learning about related tax incentives, payback periods and projected installation and operating costs during the design process. S+B James is client-focused and service oriented, offering a wide range of both design and construction services that result in high quality projects. Their services include: General contracting, an in-house design-build team, green building to reduce environmental impact, construction management, and more. To learn more about S+B James Construction visit: www.sbjames.com n

The Business Review | May 2021

CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY

FEMA Disaster Assistance Reengagement Effort Postponed Jackson County, OR | April 28, 2021 | Press Release D ue to the announcement yesterday that Jackson County will move back to Extreme Risk levels for COVID19, FEMA has decided the reengagement work scheduled for May has been postponed. These meetings, originally scheduled for May 1-4 in Talent or May 7-10 in Phoenix, were expected to provide a second look at the FEMA applications previously filed where survivors have concerns or were denied benefits. “This is not what any of us wanted to see, but given the Governors orders and the potential for this event to provide an opportunity for virus spread between staff and survivors, FEMA made the difficult decision to postpone,” shares Jackson County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Director John Vial. “I want to emphasize that this a postponement, not a cancellation. “

The Extreme Risk level becomes effective Friday, April 30, and will be in place through at least May 6 and could extend further. FEMA staff will be personally calling all the 69 families that signed up to let them know that their appointments will be rescheduled to a time when meetings can be conducted safely. n

Jackson County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Director John Vial

May 2021 | The Business Review

CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY

Oregon Wine Experience ® Announces 2021 Event Plans New brand and enhancements to elevate event experience Jacksonville, OR. | May 3, 2021 | Press Release O regon Wine Experience ® (OWE), one of the top destination charity wine and culinary events, announced plans for its 2021 signature celebration

taking place Aug. 23-29, 2021. A unique event format, including smaller-scale physical gatherings and virtual options, will allow attendees to enjoy the event safely, or from the comfort of their homes. Key events, such as the Founders’ Barrel Auction and Grand Tasting, are back with enhancements. “Communities around Oregon demonstrated their commitment to OWE and its cause in 2020. We’re proud to join together again in 2021 with a new event format and demonstrate the growing philanthropic impact this event has,” said Floyd Harmon, executive director, Asante Foundation. 2021 main events schedule OWE meticulously outlined four phased event plans to

tune in virtually. Viewers will have a front row seat as the 2021 Oregon Wine Competition results are announced. Sponsors will receive exclusive “Medal Celebration in a box” packages to enjoy the award-winning wine and culinary bites. The general public will also have an option to purchase these while supplies last. Friday, Aug. 27 – Grand Tasting: Taste Oregon’s award-winning wine and culinary excellence. This includes multiple windows for smaller groups of attendees to enjoy the tastings in compliance with capacity and safety regulations. Saturday, Aug. 28 – Miracle Auction & Salmon Bake: During an opulent salmon dinner, the program will showcase the story of a local patient

accommodate varying state and county guidelines. In-person events will follow all current mandates and protocol requirements in August. The format is subject to change based on the guidelines at the time of the event. Below is the anticipated schedule: Wednesday, Aug. 25 and Thursday, Aug. 26 – Founders’ Barrel Auction: Attendees and sponsors can bid on a chance to win exclusive wine curated specifically for OWE from all corners of the state. A Collectors’ Tasting will take place on Wednesday for previous bidders, sponsors and select Asante Foundation donors. Multiple tasting windows will take place on Thursday. All bidding is online. Thursday, Aug. 26 – Virtual Medal Celebration: This event will be hosted via a livestream showing for anyone to

and the vast impact of community support through OWE. The master of ceremonies and auctioneer will take the audience on an engaging ride through a live auction with coveted auction items and cuing a Paddle Raise. The program will also be available online via livestream. Mobile bidding will be open all week for Silent Auction items.

August – Ultimate Vintner Dinners: These small, intimate gatherings will take place at wineries and culinary partner locations throughout August for top-tier sponsors. Another new enhancement to OWE is its elevated brand presence.

Designed in partnership

with Portland- based agency, Sasquatch,

The Business Review | May 2021

the new visual identity and website present the event as approachable, community- oriented and sincere, keeping Oregon wine and OWE’s commitment to philanthropy at the heart of the brand. “Since 2015, OWE has grown exponentially, garnering statewide and national attention. The new brand represents the natural evolution of that transformation and our renewed focus. We truly believe that this signature event celebrates the very best of Oregon—the very best wine, food, attendees, sponsors, cause, and the beauty and wonder of Oregon,” said Harmon. OWE will take place on the Bigham Knoll campus in Jacksonville, Oregon. For more details on the events, please visit theoregonwineexperience.com or call (541) 789-5025. n

About Oregon Wine Experience® Since its inception in 2015, Oregon Wine Experience® (OWE) has raised more than $6.6 million, benefiting Children’s Miracle Network and other health care programs funded by Asante Foundation. Asante is a local, community-owned and governed not-for-profit organization with nearly 6,000 employees who provide medical care to nearly 600,000 people in a nine-county area of Southern Oregon and Northern California. The multi-day wine and culinary event celebrates the very best of Oregon and will take place August 23-29, 2021. For more information visit: theoregonwineexperience.com. About Asante Foundation For more than 60 years, philanthropy has helped Asante provide and enhance health care for communities throughout Southern Oregon and Northern California. Asante Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Asante, a local, community-owned and governed not-for-profit health system, is an integral partner in Asante’s vision to be your trusted health partner for life – every person, every time. Asante Foundation launched AsanteForward, the most significant campaign effort in our history, to transform the quality and scope of health care available in Asante’s nine-county region, with a goal of at least $50 million. This campaign is the largest philanthropic endeavor ever attempted in this area. At the core of AsanteForward are five specific initiatives including behavioral health, cancer care, expanded emergency services and a new patient pavilion to house several areas of care including a new women’s and children’s hospital, cardiac care, critical care and advanced surgical services. To learn more, please visit asantefoundation.org.

May 2021 | The Business Review

Vaccinate with Confidence COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence Tools and Technical Assistance Vaccine confidence is the trust people have in recommended vaccines, providers who administer vaccines, and processes and policies that lead to vaccine development, licensure, manufacturing, and recommendations for use. Along with equity and access, vaccine confidence is key to high uptake of COVID-19 vaccines. Below are CDC tools and technical assistance available to state and territorial health departments to increase COVID-19 vaccine confidence and uptake. COVID-19 State of Vaccine Confidence Insights Report highlights major themes influencing COVID-19 vaccine confidence and uptake, categorized by their level and type of threat to vaccine confidence, degree of spread, and how the theme has changed over time. This bi-weekly report identifies emerging issues of misinformation, as well as disinformation and places where intervention efforts can

positively impact vaccine confidence across the United States. To receive this report, please email eocevent515@cdc.gov.

Vaccine Communication Toolkits are available for various audiences to use to build COVID-19 vaccine confidence. Materials include key messages, fact sheets, FAQs, social media content, printable posters and stickers, slides, and videos, all of which are available on the CDC website: y Vaccination Communication Toolkit for Medical Centers, Pharmacies, and Clinicians y COVID-19 Vaccination Toolkit for Health Departments and other Public Health Partners y Long-Term Care Facility Toolkit: Preparing for COVID-19 Vaccination at Your Facility y Essential Worker Vaccination Toolkit for Employers of Essential Workers y Community-Based Organization Toolkit for Staff of Organizations Serving Communities y COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit for School Settings and Childcare Programs y Social Media Toolkit: COVID-19 Vaccinations

Rapid Community Assessment (RCA) Guide details steps to quickly gather information and insight to better understand and address community needs around COVID-19 vaccinations. This guide includes the following adaptable tools in English and Spanish:

y Vaccine Rollout Learning Template y Key Informant Interview and Listening Session Implementation Guide y COVID-19 Observation Form y Vaccine Confidence Survey Question Bank y Social Listening and Monitoring Tools y Vaccination Insights Synthesis Tool y Examples of Evidence-Based Solutions to Increase Vaccine Confidence and Uptake

Questions? Contact the CDC COVID-19 Response Vaccine Confidence Team.

April 2021

The Business Review | May 2021

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