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.
Your Advocate for Business Success
TO STRENGTHEN OUR BUSINESS COMMUNITY Building Connections MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHTS Built on Longstanding Partnerships 30 UNDER 30 Nomimate the Next Rising Leaders
OCT 2026
CONTENTS Introduction
Promote. Create. Connect. Represent. A word from our CEO.......................................................................1 Who We Are..........................................................................................2 New Members & Member Milestones...............................4-8 Advocacy............................. .............................. ..............................11, 15 Tourism in the Rogue Valley......................................................12 Leadership............................................................................................13 30 Under 30.........................................................................................17 Monthly Highlights...................................................................19-21 Excellence in Business Awards...............................................22 Coming Soon.....................................................................................24 Stay Connected................................................................................25
A WORD FROM OUR CEO DEAR MEMBERS AND PARTNERS
Happy Fall!
The Chamber’s New Health Plan: More Options for Members Access to quality healthcare is important to the wellbeing of our workforce and the strength of our local business community. That’s why The Chamber is pleased to partner with The Northwest Chamber Coalition for a new healthcare plan for Chamber members. The plan is designed to give eligible members another option to explore as they consider coverage for themselves, their employees, and their families. We know every business has different needs and budgets, so we encourage members to review the plan details, compare options and ask questions before deciding. Our goal is to help members connect with information about accessible, affordable coverage and make choices that work for them. For plan details and eligibility information, talk to your agent to review the coverage, costs, provider network, and terms to determine whether the plan fits your needs. All our member agents will be invited to offer the plan. This fall, we also encourage everyone in our community to VOTE! Local and State voting can shape the environment in which businesses and families live and work. Learn about the candidates and issues, complete your ballot (and drop it off.) As part of our civic engagement, the Chamber’s Political Action Committee (PAC) has endorsed five candidates based on questionnaires and interviews and their interest and support of the business community. We invite members to review the PAC’s endorsements in this newsletter. These endorsements reflect the PAC’s process and priorities; members are always encouraged to make their own informed decisions at the ballot box. Our Chamber is strongest when members have useful resources, a voice in civic life and opportunities to participate. We look forward to sharing more information about the healthcare plan, helping members explore their options, and supporting an informed, engaged business community.
Sincerely,
Eli Matthews, IOM President & CEO The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County
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October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
WHO WE ARE
Eli Matthews President & CEO CHAMBER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chris Peyton - Chair of the Board Chick-fil-A David Dorner - Immediate Past Chair Dorner Enterprises, LLC
Laura Hansen - Vice Chair, Promoting the Community Rogue Credit Union David Preszler - Vice Chair, Creating a Strong Local Economy Preszler Wealth Planning Cooper Whitman - Vice Chair, Providing Networking Opportunities Pacific Power Jennifer Nicholls - Vice Chair, Representing Business Issues Brophy Schmor
Stephen Gambee - Secretary Sellwood Ventures, LLC Niki Campbell - Treasurer CMG Home Loans Jared Pulver - Chair Elect Pulver & Leever
CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
David Wright CPM Real Estate Services
Allen Purdy S+B James Construction Management
Jim DeBoer Sign Dude Rob Hambleton BBSI
David Meador NIC Industries Travis Snyder Precision Electric
Angie Simonson Asante
Jason Reno People’s Bank
Ned Ford Harry & David
Bonny Panchal Ramada By Wyndham
Jay Harland CSA Planning, an AKS Company
Brenda Olfson Rogue Waste Systems
Chad Day RoxyAnn Winery
Ryan Robertson Brown & Brown
CHAMBER STAFF
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TRAVEL MEDFORD TEAM
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WE COULDN’T THRIVE WITHOUT OUR
Committees | Action Teams | Ambassadors | Sponsors
2 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
AUGUST
Southern Oregon Neurosurgery, PC Children's Advocacy Center Giveback Ministry The Gold Room Stay Rogue CoHosts Insight Pest Solutions Stealth Digitals SKH Family Law & Estate Planning Motif Event Rentals Vintage Growth Partners SHB Safety Solutions FitSpan Medford The Event Agency Boxed to Built LLC Capener Leadership Group LLC
4 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
SEPTEMBER
The Annex Dance Studio Amazon Sherlock Homes Plumbing LLC Brix Intelligence Go For It Contracting LLC Mache Co Bridgepoint Consulting LLC
HOMEFIT Medford Harmonee Ai, Inc. Russell P Brown Ins Agency Inc Emberlight Financial Lucenti Insurance Agency - COUNTRY Financial OMEP (Oregon Manufacturing Extension Partnership) Ophelia & Company Senior Advocate Solutions Ltd Priority Insurance Crater Lake Ford Lincoln Mazda
OCTOBER
Just A Note Cleaning LLC Rogue Gallery & Art Center Whites Collision Service Inc Devin Banks State Farm Frostline LLC Southern Oregon Direct Primary Care LLC Regus; Medford Center
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October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
THE DREAM BIG PROGRAM MEMBERSHIPS:
The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County’s Dream Big program provides a valuable opportunity for small businesses in our community. This innovative program offers a one- year Chamber membership, sponsored by the business community, to select small business owners who cannot afford a Chamber membership yet, but would benefit from the relationship to grow their Chamber benefits, resources, and networking opportunities. Recipients of the Dream Big membership can better promote their businesses, make business. The one-year membership includes all connections, and gain visibility. This boost at the critical startup phase helps to position small businesses for success and fuels Medford's vibrant local economy. The Dream Big program is an impactful way The Chamber lives up to its commitment to encouraging small business growth and success. Thank you for joining us in supporting our local economy, and Helping Business Succeed.
We are incredibly grateful to have been selected for the Dream Big membership and to be a part of the Chamber of Commerce. As a small business, especially when you’re growing, there are so many places competing for your time and resources. Receiving the Dream Big membership gave us an opportunity to become part of the Chamber and connect with the larger business community without having to worry about that additional expense. More than anything, it felt like someone was saying, ‘We see what you’re building, and we want to help you succeed.’ That meant a lot to us.
Kyle Thomson Owner | Court Street Donuts & Grill & Dream Big recipient
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OVER 20 DREAM BIG SPONSORSHIPS HAVE BEEN GIVEN IN THE PAST YEAR!
A special thank you to Stephen Gambee & The Gambee Family and Sellwood Ventures for being our matching sponsor of the evening.
6 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
CELEBRATING MEMBERSHIP MILESTONES Each milestone represents years of dedication, growth and service to our community. Join us in celebrating these Chamber members as they mark significant membership anniversaries August through October.
AUGUST
50 YEARS
JB Steel, Inc.
SEPTEMBER
50 YEARS
Southern Oregon Orthopedic, Inc.
East Main Dental Center, LLP Double D Electric Patterson Plumbing Company Conger Morris Funeral Directors Combined Transport, Inc.
40 YEARS
40 YEARS
S+B James Construction Management SOS Alarm
30 YEARS
theDove People's Bank
30 YEARS
Mt. Ashland Walmart Stores - North Medford
20 YEARS
Edgewater Inn on the Rogue River Red Robin Restaurant CASA of Jackson County
20 YEARS
TouchPoint Networks Rogue Valley Habitat for Humanity
7 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
CELEBRATING MEMBERSHIP MILESTONES
OCTOBER
ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum PacificSource Health Plans Rogue Shred Kelly's Automotive Service
20 YEARS
15
YEARS
Hearts With A Mission Ashley Homestore Maslow Project Rubenstein's Contract Carpet, LLC Pacific Retirement Services Vista Building Services, Inc. Quantum Innovations, Inc.
10 YEARS
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July 2026 | The Chamber Voice
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October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
9 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
OASIS
YOUR NEW FAVORITE ESCAPE
Ko-Kwel CasinoResort|Medford is your go-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
CHAMBERPAC is a political action committee not affiliated with any political party. We support the preservation, enhancement, and stewardship of the Southern Oregon business community and local economy. CHAMBERPAC
ENDORSED JACKSON COUNTY CANDIDATES
ENDORSED STATE OF OREGON CANDIDATES
Jackson County Commissioner Position 1 Rick Dyer
State Senate, District 3 Brad Hicks
Jackson County Commissioner Position 3 Colleen Roberts
State Representative, District 56 Emily McIntire
State Representative, District 6 Kim Wallan
CHAMBERPAC provides all candidates an equal opportunity to seek endorsement and address issues through a questionaire. Endorsed candidates demonstrate a willingness and ability to support and promote the goals and interests of the business community.
Political advocacy is how we make sure the voices of local businesses are heard where decisions are made. We’ll keep fighting for policies that help businesses grow, create jobs, and strengthen our community.
VIEW THE PAC PAGE
Eli Matthews President & CEO of The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County -
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October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
LEADERSHIP DOESN'T HAVE TO BE LONELY
Every leader reaches moments when the weight of leadership feels heavier than expected. Difficult decisions. Competing priorities. Team challenges. Organizational change. For many nonprofit leaders, today's funding environment brings even greater uncertainty as they work to advance their mission with fewer resources and increasing expectations. Business leaders face many of these same challenges while trying to grow their organizations and support the people who make them successful. THAT'S WHY I FOUNDED CAPENER LEADERSHIP GROUP. After nearly 30 years serving as a school superintendent, Oregon Department of Education leader, and regional program coordinator, I've learned that the strongest leaders don't have all the answers—they have trusted thought partners who help them think clearly, lead confidently, and navigate complexity with purpose.
Today I partner with business owners, nonprofit executives, educational leaders, and leadership teams through executive coaching, strategic planning, leadership development, and organizational consulting. Whether you're refining your mission and vision, strengthening organizational culture, leading through change, building leadership capacity, or planning for the future, I help leaders gain clarity, align their teams, and move forward with confidence. My wife and I moved to the Rogue Valley three years ago and are proud to call it home. We own Wild Hare Farms in west Medford, where we're building our own small business while enjoying the incredible quality of life Southern Oregon offers. I'm committed to helping local organizations and their leaders thrive because strong leadership creates stronger organizations—and stronger communities. When leadership gets difficult, you don't have to navigate it alone.
BRAD CAPENER FOUNDER, CAPENER LEADERSHIP GROUP
WWW.CAPENERLEADERSHIPGROUP.COM | BRAD@CAPENERLEADERSHIPGROUP.COM
October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
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14 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
BETTER HEALTH BENEFITS FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS
A NEW BENEFIT AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY. MORE OPTIONS FOR YOUR BUSINESS.
The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County is partnering with the Northwest Chamber Coalition to give eligible chamber members access to the Chamber Health Plan. This employer-sponsored benefits program is designed to help you explore group health insurance options, compare available coverage, and find solutions that align with your employees needs and your business goals.
COVERAGE DESIGNED AROUND YOUR BUSINESS
Participating businesses can explore a range of benefit options, including:
Medical insurance
Dental coverage
Vision coverage
Life insurance
High-deductible and HSA-compatible plans
Traditional copay plans
Co insurance plans
Requesting information or receiving a quote does not require your business to enroll. The Chamber Health Plan team can help you review available options, understand costs and benefits, and make an informed decision for your business. A NO-COST, NO-OBLIGATION REVIEW
Learn More or Request a Quote
Rick Skayhan | CEO | AHP Advisors LLC Associations, Employee Benefits, Retirement D. 503.810.8499
Eli Matthews | President & CEO | The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County eli@medfordchamber.com
www.ahpadvisors.com rick@ahpadvisors.com
15 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
30 UNDER 30 30 UNDER 30
NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR JANUARY
Help us recognize 30 outstanding professionals under 30 who are making an impact in our community.
KNOW SOMEONE WHO DESERVES RECOGNITION? SUBMIT A NOMINATION TODAY!
Email: emily@medfordchamber.com
Send their name, age, role, and why they deserve recognition.
17 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
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.
RIBBON CUTTING!
Quilts 4 kidz The Grove Senior Living
GREETERS
@ ROGUE X
LOGOS PUBLIC SCHOOL TUTORING & PREFORMANCE ARTS BUILDING
GREETER OF THE MONTH ROBYN ALLESON
CONNECT @ THE POINT PUB & GRILL
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July 2026 | The Chamber Voice
19 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS
EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARDS
FULL LEAF TEA CO STRATEGY ONE HOME LOANS RIBBON CUTTINGS!
EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARDS
GREETERS @ THE ROGUE VALLEY MALL
ROGER OWEN GREETER OF THE MONTH
EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARDS
20 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS
2026-2027 LEADERSHIP CLASS BEGAN
THE PINK PEDI THE ALBA ROOM RIBBON CUTTINGS!
CHERRY STREET MEATS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RESTORE RIBBON CUTTINGS!
AMERICAN CORNHOLE ORGANIZATION MEDFORD MAJOR
THE CENTRE ~ ROGUE VALLEY MALL RIBBON CUTTINGS!
GREETER OF THE MONTH SHERRI BRESLIN
@ THE ROC THE CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY BBSI GREETERS
CHAMBER FORUM SPONSORED BY ROGUE CREDIT UNION
CHAMBER CONNECT @ DUNBAR FARMS
21 October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
A Look Back at the 107th Excellence in Business Awards
The Southern Oregon business community came together for an unforgettable evening at Rogue X for the Chamber’s 107th Annual Excellence in Business Awards. With more than 650 business leaders, entrepreneurs, community partners, and local professionals in attendance, the evening was about more than recognizing achievement. It was about celebrating the people, passion, and partnerships that make our community what it is.
This evening would not have been possible without the people who helped bring it to life. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Trish Glose, who served as our MC and guided the evening with warmth and professionalism. Thank you, Trish, for sharing your time and talent with us and helping make this celebration so meaningful. To our generous sponsors, thank you for believing in the mission of the Chamber and investing in the success of our regional business community. Your support makes it possible to create experiences that bring people together, celebrate local achievement, and strengthen the connections that help businesses thrive. We are grateful for your partnership and the confidence you place in this organization. To our incredible vendors and event partners, thank you for the countless details, long hours, creativity, and care that went into making the evening a success. From the atmosphere and décor to the food, entertainment, photography, and production, your work helped transform a room into a celebration. So much of what makes an event memorable happens behind the scenes, and we are deeply grateful for every contribution. To our Chamber members, award nominees, recipients, attendees, volunteers, and everyone who played a part, thank you for showing up for one another. Your participation is what gives this evening its meaning. Every connection made, every accomplishment celebrated, and every story shared reflects the strength of a community that continues to invest in its people and its future. And to this year’s award recipients, congratulations. Your achievements deserve to be celebrated, not only for what you have accomplished, but for the impact you make on the people around you and the community we call home. At the Chamber, we are reminded every day that a thriving business community is built by people who believe in one another.
2026 AWARD WINNERS:
FIRST CITIZEN: DEE ANNE EVERSON RISING STAR AWARD: ISIS THORNTON-SAUNDERS HOEVET HOSPITALITY AWARD: BONNY PANCHAL
RETAILER OF THE YEAR: SOUTHERN OREGON SUBARU MEMBER OF THE YEAR: PRITI PATEL NEW MEMBER OF THE YEAR: JOE WALTER
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE- SMALL: NICK ALEXANDER FILMS BUSINESS EXCELLENCE- MEDIUM: DORNER ENTERPRISE INC. BUSINESS EXCELLENCE- LARGE: NIC INDUSTRIES
OUTSTANDING CORPORATE CITIZEN- FOR PROFIT: BBSI
OUTSTANDING CORPORATE CITIZEN- NON- PROFIT: ROGUE RETREAT
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October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
A look ahead at events, programs, and opportunities happening in our community. November 5 | Greeters – Cartwright’s Market November 7–11 | Cascade Collegiate Conference Soccer Championships at Lithia & Driveway Fields
November 9 | Forum Sponsored by Salvation Army November 12 | Greeters – Habitat for Humanity ReStore November 12 | Chamber Connect at Golf Garage November 19 | Greeters – Golf Garage
December 3 | Greeters – Station 71Five December 10 | Greeters – Banner Bank December 14 | Forum Sponsored by Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians December 17 | Greeters – Mercy Flights
January 11 | Forum Sponsored by Avista January 28–30 | American Cornhole Organization Medford Major at RogueX
October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
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FOLLOW ALONG ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS, EVENT HIGHLIGHTS, AND COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS.
EXPLORE OUR QUARTERLY DIGITAL PUBLICATION FEATURING LOCAL BUSINESSES, CHAMBER NEWS, AND ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES.
YOUR WEEKLY ROUNDUP OF CHAMBER NEWS, UPCOMING EVENTS, AND OPPORTUNITIES TO GET INVOLVED.
BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION ATTEND AN EVENT. CELEBRATE A LOCAL BUSINESS. SHARE YOUR STORY. HOWEVER YOU CHOOSE TO CONNECT, WE’RE GLAD YOU’RE PART OF OUR CHAMBER COMMUNITY.
VIEW CALENDAR AT WWW.MEDFORDCHAMBER.COM
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October 2026 | The Chamber Voice
101 East 8th Street Medford, Oregon 97501 www.medfordchamber.com | @medford.chamber
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