The Business Review March 2023

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.

MARCH 2023 BUSINESS REVIEW THE CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY

IS THERE A KEY TO SUCCESS? The Abundance Mindset & Key Strategies to use.

COMMUNICATING IN THE WORKPLACE The Evolution of Technology & its Impact on Our Work.

ELI MATTHEWS PRESIDENT & CEO

CONTENTS March 2023 | VOLUME 24 | ISSUE 3

LEADERSHIP MATTERS 4 A Letter from the Editor 6 The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Serves, Supports & Represents Local Businesses 8 Committing to the Abundance Mindset - An Interview With the President & CEO Eli Matthews CHAMBER UPDATES 12 The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Launches Local “Pi Day” Membership Drive Campaign PROVIDING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES 16 Chamber Leadership Class of 2023 Spends a Day With Media and Fire Service 18 Staff Highlight: Maclayne De Mello PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY 20 The World’s Best Cheese 24 Empowering Communication Within the Workplace 26 2023 Annual Pear Blossom Festival REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES 30 The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Offers Small Business Grant Relief Opportunity 32 Discussing Cyber Security Attacks and How to Mitigate Threats during The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Forum LOCAL SPOTLIGHT 34 Local Southern Oregon Businesses Included On 100 Best Companies to Work For in Oregon 38 Mt. Ashland Breaks Season Attendance Record and Extends Season 40 Danielle Conroy Accepts New Role at Banner Bank OREGON UPDATES 42 Gov. Tina Kotek Laser Focused on Housing, Homelessness in First 60 days RENEWING & NEW MEMBERS

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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

Eli Matthews President & CEO eli@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8526

Emily Hunter Vice President, Communications & Programs emily@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8534

Kira Zavala Director of Business

Development & Partnerships kira@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8522

Cathy Watt Office Administrator cathy@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8515

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

medfordchamber.com

March 2023 | The Business Review

LEADERSHIP MATTERS A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

S pring is officially upon us, and the valley is blossoming in more ways than one. From the wildflowers sprinkled along the Table Rocks to new businesses blooming through membership, the excitement of the season is palpable. We have a plethora of ways to get involved, as well as exciting opportunities for you to take advantage of! March 14 was “Pi Day” (being 3.14), and we launched terrific, limited-time deals for both new and existing members. For just $314, new members could gain access to a one-year membership, including full circle benefits. Current members can take advantage of an advertisement in the Business Review for just $314. Be sure to seize these opportunities before they expire March 31! Limited grants are now available for small businesses in response to COVID-19 and the economic impacts businesses faced in its wake.This is an excellent opportunity for eligible businesses in Jackson and Josephine counties to apply for financial support. In partnership with the Oregon Legislature and the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, applications are open now through April 26, 2023. A phrase we like to say here at The Chamber is, “Your network is your net worth”. The best way to expand that is our Young Professionals Network (YPN)! Our next YPN is Thursday, April 13 from 4:45 - 7:00 p.m. at The Event Agency. Your $15 ticket will include endless opportunities for connection, a drink and light food. We can’t wait to see you there! Richard Holbo from Hunter Communications and Alfonso Powers from Asante unveiled the vulnerability of information throughout our devices, and provided insight on how to protect both personal and professional data at our Forum this March. Looking to learn and connect? Our next Forum is April 10, featuring Providence at the Rogue Valley Country Club! Be sure to purchase your tickets on our website.

Yours in success,

Emily Hunter Editor in Chief/Vice President of Communications & Programs The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County

The Business Review | March 2023

March 2023 | The Business Review

CHAMBER 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.

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

The Business Review | March 2023

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.

March 2023 | The Business Review

CHAMBER UPDATES

Committing to the Abundance Mindset - An Interview With the President & CEO Eli Matthews

Can you tell me a little bit about the mindset that has helped propel you to the position you are in today? Years ago I committed to an abundance mindset. Within this mindset, there are several perspectives and disciplines to adopt and integrate into your life. A foundational portion of this mindset has to do with serving others, especially before oneself. This is also a core value of The Chamber, as we grow through serving the needs of others and fixing issues as they arise. In my personal life, consistent, small growth has propelled me to crafting the lifestyle and habits required to reach my goals. Over time, this consistent dedication adds up to incredible change both individually and organizationally. A key element within the abundance mindset is understanding that change is constant - and you can either run from it or embrace it and leverage it to your advantage as a lifelong learner.

How would you describe success? For me, success is when all cylinders in your life are running smoothly and at high performance. This means that your relationships, as well as your physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing are all thriving at the same time. A significant part of this is communication - both within yourself as it relates to your daily aspirations and goals, as well as your team and business. In the workplace, long-term goals act as a springboard to propel your team, and ultimately promote them to move in conjunction with one another toward a clear finish line. One quote I love is, “Success doesn’t come to those that are necessarily the smartest, the best looking or even the hardest working, but to those that are the most hungry for it.” Improving day-to-day in your communication with yourself as well as those around you is the ultimate stepping stone to success in your life. What is something that has helped The Chamber create a strong foundation for communication in the workplace? Our team has collectively committed to focus and “live” through the abundance mindset. This includes implementing both personal and professional development tools and goals. Additionally, the team is extremely open and understanding of one another, providing the space to listen and engage with thoughtful consideration of their differing communication styles.

What is your most important piece of advice for the business community? I believe one of the most powerful tools and opportunities we have as people is to utilize the power of our own minds, and take personal responsibility for our actions, choices and therefore our outcomes. Those that live in a growth mindset realize and own that they are both the problem but also the solution. There are, of course, external factors that come into play that cannot be individually controlled; This is all about the habits we create and mindsets we adopt to become our best selves. Once you begin walking in this truth, your life becomes an adventure that you get to craft. What is the first characteristic you look for as a trait in all your employees when bringing them onto the team? The first thing I look for is the passion in the individual’s heart and mind. They don’t need to have all the knowledge, skills, or even experience, but they have to have the heart for the work and the desire to grow and improve. n

The Business Review | March 2023

March 2023 | The Business Review

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The Business Review | March 2023

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March 2023 | The Business Review

CHAMBER UPDATES

The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Launches Local “Pi Day” Membership Drive Campaign Medford, Oregon | March 13, 2023 | Press Release O n March 14th, The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County will celebrate Pi Day by offering full access, one-year memberships for only $314. “We believe in the power of The Chamber to help businesses grow,” said Zavala. “Our hope is that businesses will invest in themselves and take their growth to the next level.”

“The Chamber is invested in the success of our community,” said Kira Zavala, Director of Business Development & Partnerships at The Chamber. “Through our membership drive, we’re encouraging businesses to join The Chamber and invest in their own success.” In the spirit of Pi Day, new members will enjoy a full circle of benefits when they join The Chamber. This includes, but is not limited to: discounts, education, increased credibility and visibility, more networking opportunities, and a stronger voice in legislative matters. “We work with over 1,200 small and large businesses to create a stronger local economy and promote our community.” said Zavala. A vibrant network of businesses is a strong foundation for any community, which is why The Chamber works diligently to help its members succeed. They do this by following their four main objectives to promote, create, connect and represent. With over 100 years of experience helping local businesses flourish and thrive, The Chamber is excited to kick off their membership drive. They are encouraging businesses and entrepreneurs to take advantage of the numerous opportunities available to them through a Chamber membership.

“We work with over 1,200 small and large businesses to create a stronger local economy and promote our community.” ABOUT THE CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY The Chamber’s mission is, “Helping Business Succeed,” and its purpose is to inspire and develop growth in the economy of Medford and Jackson County. The Chamber seeks to be the catalyst for business growth, a convener of community and business leaders, and champion of the region it calls home. Learn more at www.southernoregonstrong.com. n

The Business Review | March 2023

March 2023 | The Business Review

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The Business Review | March 2023

Save the Date

KENTUCKY DERBY FUNDRAISER 6 MAY 2023 • 1:30PM ROGUE VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

Junior League of Jackson County Join the

AT THE 2ND ANNUAL KENTUCKY DERBY FUNDRAISER.

HELP US RAISE MONEY TO BENEFIT THE FOLLOWING NON-PROFITS:

Junior League of Jackson County

Jackson County Foster Parent Association

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

Family Nuturing Center

Community Works - Bee Strong Bags

Learn More Here

March 2023 | The Business Review

PROVIDING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Chamber Leadership Class of 2023 Spends a Day With Media and Fire Service Medford, OR | February 2023 T he Chamber Leadership Class met in February to continue their journey through southern Oregon, learning and gaining valuable experience inside our

community’s businesses. The class was taken behind the cameras at KOBI TV where local focus is the clear goal, and each member plays a valuable role in the work involved in putting the information together to get news to the community. From the newsroom, to the production room to the magic that happened in front of the lights and cameras, each step in the process was fun to explore. The class was able to take studio head shots and perform a mock interview on set to gain a better understanding of the role news anchors and guests play in delivering the final product when we turn on our screens. We met Patsy Smullin, daughter of William B. Smullin who pioneered the broadcast in 1953 and got insight into what it looked like growing up in the world of media and broadcast and how it has changed over the years. Patsy proudly shared the history of KOBI as the first tv station in Oregon and the only station that is locally owned in Rogue Valley. KOBI is celebrating 70 years this year and they are staying true to their charge that local focus is the only way to go. In partnership with United Way of Jackson County, the United in Kindness campaign is in full swing with an invitation to the people of southern Oregon to share their stories of kindness, generosity, and feel-good actions with each other. The next stop for the class was Medford Fire station 14 and an opportunity to experience the hard work this team prepares for every day. The crew was ready to share all aspects of the impressive responsibility they carry serving our community. The class suited up in full turnouts and helmets to navigate through a smoke-filled room using Thermal Imaging Cameras (TIC), participated in a hose exercise to spray water towards the training ground and took a ride up the ladder truck for a beautiful view of the valley. The crew shared the commitment they had to continuous training and service in their ability to provide emergency medical services to the area, offering an up-close look at the medical equipment and supplies they have ready to go for any situation they are called to respond to in the valley.

Community Project Updates: This year’s three community projects are under way, and we continued to make great progress in the planning, marketing and fundraising to reach our goals. Two of the 4 studio houses at Community Works were complete with all new durable flooring and the remaining two were being scheduled to provide a clean and comfortable shelter for the vulnerable youth that seek support and stability. Supplies and resources were in the final stages of being coordinated and secured to begin work on the Youth 715 Ministries fencing project to provide a safe space for Eagle Point youth and the community at large to recreate. The Girl Scouts Fire Pit continues to be carefully planned and coordinated with participation from the community and organization to achieve the vision of how special this space will be for all who gather around it in the future. To put these plans into action and complete these projects in our community, funding remains an ongoing effort. Here’s how you can DONATE to support projects helping Community Works, Girl Scouts of Oregon & Southwest Washington and Youth 715 Ministries. All donations are tax deductible. Mail donation checks to: Rogue Valley Foundation at 101 E. 8th Street, Medford, OR 97501 Attn: Leadership 23 or click here to donate online. n

The Business Review | March 2023

March 2023 | The Business Review

PROVIDING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Staff Highlight: Maclayne De Mello Community Partnership Coordinator

Maclayne De Mello serves as the Community Partnership Coordinator for Medford by fostering community relations, event stewardship, content development, and increasing wholesale brand wear sales. She was born and raised in the Rogue Valley and, with her parents, both business owners, she is passionate about helping small businesses and increasing tourism to Medford. Maclayne enjoys traveling, being outdoors, skiing with her husband, spending time with family, and is a plant lover. Also, she enjoys meeting new people and is looking forward to furthering and maintaining new relationships and connections. n

The Business Review | March 2023

March 2023 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

The World’s Best Cheese Medford, OR | March 2023 | Written by Emily Hunter

The Rogue Valley is an agricultural mecca — offering the best in pears, wine, chocolates, and, of course, cheese. There are many notable businesses that have created a shaped Southern Oregon, including the Rogue Creamery, which has been a staple of this luscious valley for over 80 years. THE BEGINNING OF GREATNESS In 1935, Gaetano “Tom” Vella and Celso Viviani - two of the biggest figures in the cheese world at the time - formed a partnership to acquire the Rogue River Valley Co-Op and transform it into a cheese factory. With few jobs available and many dairy farmers struggling to make ends meet, it was their goal to help as many families as they could during the height of the Great Depression. With the farm’s fertile valley soils, ample water and rolling pastures, the Heart of the Rogue proved to be the perfect place for raising cows and crafting cheese. The Creamery made significant contributions to the war effort during 1940-48, producing one million pounds of cheddar for troops deployed to different countries. Due to a shortage in workers because of the draft, they also employed women at their manufacturing facilities. After World War II, Vella expanded the creamery’s offerings, producing the first wheels of Oregon Blue in 1953. This was one of the first cave-aged, French-style blue cheeses ever created west of the Missouri River. The cheese was met with many accolades, and would soon become renowned throughout the nation. Ignazio “Ig” Vella inherited the business from his father in 1998, and changed the name to Rogue Creamery in 2002.

Sharing a deep respect for the art and tradition of artisan cheesemaking like his father, Ignazio has carried on the traditions and greatness of Rogue Creamery throughout its years. THE WORLD’S BEST CHEESE Today, Rogue Creamery’s cheeses are sold worldwide, winning numerous awards and accolades - including the title for World’s Best Blue Cheese at the 2003 World Cheese Awards in London — a first for a U.S. creamery. But the accolades don’t stop there. Their Rogue River Blue Cheese was also named best cheese in the world at the 2019 World Cheese Awards in Italy. Nearly 4,000 cheeses from around the globe were tasted and trialed by technical experts, retailers, buyers and food writers before crowning a winner.

The Business Review | March 2023

On top of their accolades for delicious cheeses and dairy products, Rogue Creamery has also been recognized as the #1 Best Green Workplaces in Oregon. The creamery has annually made this list for over 13 years, with recognitions to their renewable energy practices, reduced packaged waste, employee commuter program, and energy waste reduction with the use of solar panels. In addition to working green, Rogue Creamery was also honored on Oregon Business’ 2022 list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For. Rogue Creamery became Oregon’s first B-Corporation in 2014, and has been on the cutting edge of sustainability ever since - ranking in the top 10% for its impact on people and planet of B Corps worldwide in 2017. You will certainly taste the difference when you visit, as the creamery uses certified organic whole milk to make their original blue cheeses. All milk is directly sourced from their dairy located along the banks of the beautiful Rogue River, ensuring a taste of Southern Oregon in everything they produce. Additionally, the Creamery’s happy cows are bred to produce the perfect milk for cheesemaking – rich in protein and butterfat. Because the cows are pasture grazed for most of the year, their flavorful milk is ideal for producing delicious cheese. And if you visit their Facebook page, you might catch a video of these adorable bovines trotting through the fields.

DISCOVER ALL THINGS CHEESE Rogue Creamery’s success has also brought more attention to Southern Oregon — showing people from around the world that the Rogue Valley is an exceptional region for agritourism. The topography of the region is truly exceptional, with its unique elevation placement and weather conditions. Sample the World’s Best Cheese right here in the Heart of the Rogue anytime on your visit, or experience the cheese at the Oregon Cheese Festival each Spring. Sample and purchase locally crafted, artisan cheese and delightful pairings, including and especially those offered by Rogue Creamery. Whether you’re a dairy aficionado or in search of the world’s best blue cheese, we have it all in Medford. Plan your agricultural vacation, and have your taste buds singing with the best in cheese, wine and so much more. n

Left: Co-Owner David Gremmels with one of the many cows that supply milk to Rogue Creamery. Photo by Favoreat

Discover more about agritourism in Medford TravelMedford.org

March 2023 | The Business Review

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The Business Review | March 2023

Working Together in the Rogue Valley for a Stronger Community

March 2023 | The Business Review 23 541.622.8577 • 40 S Central • Medford, Oregon 97501 • cowcreek.com

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

Empowering Communication Within the Workplace Contributing Article by Mary Hambleton C ommunication is the key to our existence since the beginning of our existence. AND … it’s changing. The path forward calls for flexibility, it’s not a one size fits

Here are a few ways to engage your team – even those working remotely. • Create a culture where employees feel like a priority. In turn they will make your organization a priority. People want to feel embraced and supported. • Recognizing the general communication style of each personality and communicating with them in the way they need to be communicated with is key is helping people feel heard. • Most employees want to hit the target … But sometimes they just don’t know what the target is. Part of your responsibility as a leader is to be clear as to what your expectations are. • Empower and reward collaboration and sharing of knowledge. • Ask yourself and your team, “What are some of the barriers to optimal company performance? What are some of the ways these barriers could be dealt with?” Relationship Tips I gave in a recent interview were: 1. Read and adapt to the other person’s personality type. Fun Free Personality Quiz 2. Actively listen and prioritize the other person. 3. Speak their language of love. Great book – The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman a. Words of Affirmation b. Quality Time

all scenario. We must adapt to connect to each other. Leaders and Managers need to be able to articulate clear roles and responsibilities and consequences. Today’s Leader must have the ability to communicate all of these expectations in a way that each person on the team not only understands but lives those values. We need to agree upon not only the forms of communication, but how we communicate.

Leaders, we need to define Our Culture, “How we do things and say things around here”. And remember, it’s not what you say but what you do that matters most. The research company, McKinsey, finds that while employers think better pay and benefits will attract and keep their people, what employees really want from their companies is to feel valued, a sense of belonging, control over

their careers, and flexibility and autonomy in their jobs. So, what does this mean for the business who is trying their hardest to stay open? Autonomy in the workplace refers to being able to self-govern or make decisions on how and what to do. Autonomy is the capacity to make an informed, uncoerced decision. So, what does that mean for a business owner? It means we are going to see more collaborative; group think workspace. A workplace that aligns passions and talent to the tasks at hand. Companies that have a clear vision and are able to articulate the value of the employee’s contribution to the whole team will find that they have a Winning Team. A team that is built on a foundation of shared values and eager to take on new challenges. To survive and even thrive we must adapt and connect to this new work environment and that means better communication from the entire team.

c. Receiving Gifts d. Act of Service e. Physical Touch

Here is what Harvard Business Review had to say. “In the new flexible workplace, companies need to have a robust strategy for career development. For hybrid employees, career development was the most crucial element of a successful employee experience.” In today’s workforce, people feel valued when feeling invested in. Let us help you in building a Training Schedule that is customized to you. Visit us online at www.soulcanyon. com or give me a call 541-218-7601 and let’s do an exploratory conversation over coffee or over Zoom today. n

The Business Review | March 2023

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March 2023 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

2023 Annual Pear Blossom Festival A rtisan crafts, local business treats and smiles from around the community can all be found at the one and only Medford Pear Blossom Festival. Bringing

people together since 1954, this longstanding Rogue Valley tradition showcases the beauty, abundance and joyful spirit of the Heart of the Rogue. The Pear Blossom Festival has added many events over the past six decades. Whether you peruse the vendors at the Street Fair, indulge in a walking and tasting tour at the Smudge Pot Stroll, watch the parade go by in Downtown Medford, golf in the tournament or test your endurance in the Pear Blossom Run, there’s something for everyone! With so many activities to choose from, you will spend every minute of the festival weekend discovering something new! n

The Business Review | March 2023

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March 2023 | The Business Review

The Business Review | March 2023

March 2023 | The Business Review

REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Offers Small Business Grant Relief Opportunity Medford, OR | March 13, 2023 | Press Release T he Chamber of Medford & Jackson County, along with the Oregon Legislature and the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, will offer limited grants in response to COVID-19 and the economic impacts businesses faced in its wake.

The Southern Oregon Strong Business Success Grant Program will provide direct payments to eligible businesses in Oregon House District #4 who have previously or are currently experiencing losses due to the pandemic. “This is an excellent opportunity for eligible businesses in Jackson and Josephine counties to apply for financial support,” said Emily Hunter, Vice President of Communications & Programs for The Chamber. The program may cover revenue losses related to utility expenses, mortgage and rent arrears, and other specific expenses to alleviate the financial impacts of the pandemic. Funds are allocated from the U.S. Treasury’s State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund as part of the federal American Rescue Plan Act. The Chamber may award eligible small businesses up to $50,000 in funds. “This is an excellent opportunity for eligible businesses in Jackson and Josephine counties to apply for financial support.” To qualify, a company must be classified as a small business with no more than 500 employees, and the primary place of business must be within the boundaries of Oregon House District 4.* “We are proud to be involved in this partnership and offer financial help to small businesses who are struggling after the pandemic,” said Hunter.

The application period is from March 15, 2023 to April 26, 2023. Once applications are closed, The Chamber will review eligible applicants and determine grant awards. Applicants will be notified of the selection results starting on May 17, 2023. For more information, visit The Chamber website or email sosbusinessgrant@medfordchamber.com. *District boundaries prior to Oregon’s 2021 redistricting. ABOUT THE CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY The Chamber’s mission is, “Helping Business Succeed,” and its purpose is to inspire and develop growth in the economy of Medford and Jackson County. The Chamber seeks to be the catalyst for business growth, a convener of community and business leaders, and champion of the region it calls home. Learn more at www.medfordchamber.com. n

The Business Review | March 2023

March 2023 | The Business Review

REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

Discussing Cyber Security Attacks and How to Mitigate Threats during The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Forum Forum with Richard Holbo, Chief Technology Officer at Hunter Communica - tions; and Alfonso Powers, Chief Information Security Officer at Asante Sponsored by: Hunter Communications

Our personal lives and businesses are more connected than ever in the digital age. However, with an increasing reliance on devices and the “Internet of Things”, your information is extremely vulnerable to hackers who create more danger. During this presentation, Richard Holbo, Chief Technolo- gy Officer at Hunter Communications, discussed current challenges for businesses in the world of cyber security. Today, phishing scams, malware and ransomware are still the most prevalent types of attacks. “Only about 50% of businesses have a cyber security plan,” said Holbo, “and $6.9 billion was lost due to cyber crimes in 2021.” Unfortunately, updated forms of protection are always playing catch up to cyber criminals and their ever- evolving schemes. “These are crimes of opportunity for hackers,” said Holbo. “But if they are determined to get into your system, they will.” He explained that increased and effective security must be an intentional financial decision for businesses. “There are automated scans looking for network vulnerabilities 24/7/365,” he said. Additionally, more people are using the “Internet of Things” — a network of connected devices and the technology that facilitates communication between devices

and the cloud, as well as between devices. Unfortunately, these devices are notoriously insecure. But Holbo advised it is never too late to increase your security and take steps to protect yourself, your data and your network. “Have a good firewall,” he explained, “and stay current on software updates. Back up important information daily and encrypt files you don’t want seen.” Holbo also encouraged people to be prudent about sharing their private information online. “There’s no such thing as ‘free’. When you install apps without checking to see if they are secure, then you’re trading your privacy.” To mitigate some of the risks, Holbo said to use secure passwords and compromised, Holbo said to turn off your system, remove internet access and get professional help to remedy the situation. Holbo then turned the presentation over to Alfonso Powers, Chief Information Security Officer for Asante. Powers focused on the work his team does for Asante. They support over 300 applications, 1,100 servers, 19,000 medical devices and 80,000 emails a day — in addition to handling many more tasks on top of that. Powers said the main risks the hospital faces include ransomware, misconfigurations, business email compromise and identity management. He explained that in 2022, business email compromise surged to 81%, but an overwhelming 98% of employees failed to report it. Powers emphasized the importance of rigorous security measures. “Access, authorized or not, is the first step to compromising a network,” he said. “You must manage your risks through auditing and reporting.” n two-factor authentication when possible. Also, if your network or information becomes

The Business Review | March 2023

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March 2023 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Local Southern Oregon Businesses Included On 100 Best Companies to Work For in Oregon March 3, 2023 | Press Release

I n the post-pandemic era, employers and employees are adjusting to a new normal in the workplace. Businesses are collaborating with workers to create a positive and flexible work environment. And there’s no better demonstration of this than the companies on this year’s 100 Best Companies to Work For in Oregon list. These companies have shown they are great places to work, according to survey answers from employees across Oregon. This year, several Southern Oregon businesses were part of this prestigious group. Everyone wants to feel that their work is valued. The companies recognized on this list are supportive of their employees and show gratitude for their work. The employers trust their employees, which is recognized and appreciated. When such a harmonious atmosphere is created and nurtured, it results in happier employees and a thriving business. These businesses have also adapted to changing times. With flexibility remaining an important issue for many workers, several companies have implemented work-from- home and hybrid work schedules as a permanent part of their operations. And while some companies have endured layoffs and other struggles, Oregon businesses remain strong. Additionally, Southern Oregon businesses were included in each category of the 2023 list. Whether they oversee a handful of employees or more than 100, these local companies have shown they are innovative, adaptable, caring, and invest in their employees. These businesses are a shining example of how success isn’t just numbers on a spreadsheet — it’s the pride and joy in the eyes of employees as they arrive to work each day. These Oregon businesses have demonstrated that employers who adapt to change — and who make their employees feel valued and appreciated — continue to attract and keep great employees in a competitive labor market.

Southern Oregon businesses included in 2023 list: Large companies — more than 100 employees • US Cellular

• Adroit Construction • Rogue Credit Union

Medium Companies — 35 to 99 Oregon employees • Avista Utilities • KDP Certified Public Accountants • Garrison’s Home • Metal Masters • Outlier Construction • Work Sharp Small Companies — 15 to 34 Oregon employees • S+B James Construction Management • RHT Energy • Kelly’s Automotive Service • Jackson County Physical Therapy

The Business Review | March 2023

E M P L O Y M E N T L A W S E M I N A R

KEY LEGAL UPDATES & BEST PRACTICES FOR OREGON EMPLOYERS IN 2023 Presented by Sean Ray, Partner at Barran Liebman A P R I L 6 , 2 0 2 3 9 : 0 0 A . M . - 1 1 : 0 0 A . M . CLICK HERE TO REGISTER ONLINE

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March 2023 | The Business Review

The Business Review | March 2023

March 2023 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Mt. Ashland Breaks Season Attendance Record and Extends Season Ashland , OR | March 18, 2023 | Press Release T he Mt. Ashland Ski Area broke its all-time season attendance record on Saturday. The previous record was 106,003 skier visits in a season and the ski area

closed Saturday with 106,762. Mt. Ashland also announced it was extending its season to April 23, two weeks later than its usual closing date. “This season has been historic in several ways,” said Andrew Gast, Mt. Ashland’s General Manager. “From our first day of the season, the community has supported the

mountain in record numbers. We’ve had outstanding snowfall this winter, we currently have 125” of snow on the ground, and that combination of skier support and great snow coverage allows us to stay open a few weeks later. With 24 days of skiing and snowboarding left this winter, the new attendance record will be set very high and we can’t thank the community enough for coming up to the mountain.” Mt. Ashland will begin its spring events schedule next week, with themed spring break days including an SOU Raiders Day on March 25 and the annual Dummy Downhill on April 1. A new addition on the calendar is The Great Mt. Ashland Egg Hunt for Easter Sunday, with final day of the winter season on Sunday, April 23. Mt. Ashland is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ski area owned and operated by the Mt. Ashland Association under a special use permit from the U.S. Forest Service. n

The Business Review | March 2023

VISITORS CENTER DOWNTOWN MEDFORD

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March 2023 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Danielle Conroy Accepts New Role at Banner Bank March 14, 2023 | Eagle Point, OR | Press Release D anielle Conroy has joined Banner Bank as Branch Manager of the Eagle Point Branch. Most recently, Conroy was a Banner mortgage loan officer serving Southern Oregon. Conroy has worked in the

About Banner Bank Banner Bank is a Washington-chartered commercial bank serving Washington, Oregon, California and Idaho. Banner offers an award-

banking industry for more than 21 years and has extensive experience assisting small businesses and retail clients. She is active in her community serving as executive board member for the Alzheimer’s Association and she’s currently a member of the Eagle Point Chamber. The Eagle Point Branch is located at 44 W. Linn Road 97524. The branch lobby and drive-thru are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday. Conroy can be reached at (541) 826-0580

winning suite of products and services to businesses and consumers. Forbes has ranked Banner among the 100 Best Banks in the U.S. the past six years and one of the World’s Best Banks the past three years. Visit Banner Bank at www.bannerbank.com. n

The Business Review | March 2023

For more than 130 years, our motto has been to do the right thing. In these uncertain times, the right thing to do is to make your life easier. Whether you need help managing your accounts, planning your business’ next big move, or you just want to chat, we’re here for you. Uncertain times call for a financial partner that has your back. Banner Bank is here to help.

To find a branch or banker near you, visit bannerbank.com

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(800) 272-9933

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March 2023 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

Gov. Tina Kotek Laser Focused on Housing, Homelessness in First 60 days March 14, 2023 | The Oregonian G ov. Tina Kotek describes her first 60 days in office as an all-out dash to set her priorities in motion. A sprinter on her high school track team, Kotek Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson in the meetings at least once a month.

The governor’s early focus on housing and homelessness has the potential to shift how local governments and the state approach the two crises. Kotek’s new housing council met for the first time Friday to begin generating recommendations to boost home construction. Kotek has also directed local governments in regions with the largest increases in people living unsheltered to draft plans by March 17 for how they can collaborate to reduce homelessness. Those plans will be the basis for deploying money appropriated by the Legislature. “They have to explain how they’re going to reach outcomes, not only for keeping people housed” but also for connecting people with services and getting unsheltered people into homes, Kotek told The Oregonian/OregonLive. She is personally leading the multi-agency coordination group in the Portland metro area. n

said her administration probably needs to downshift to a sustainable pace soon “but it’s really important for people to see us working hard to set the foundation.” It’s clear two months in that Kotek is running hardest at the state’s twin crises of homelessness and a lack of affordable housing, problems that loomed large for voters last year and were top concerns for Kotek dating back to her years as state House speaker. Within 24 hours of taking office, Kotek issued a trio of executive orders that set an ambitious statewide goal of building 36,000 housing units a year, declaring a homelessness state of emergency in parts of the state with the largest increases in unsheltered homelessness and directing all state agencies to focus their resources on finding ways to reduce the number of people living on the streets. She has also met biweekly with Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler since before taking office and has included

Click HERE to read full article.

The Business Review | March 2023

Join us to enjoy these exclusive member benefits:

Promote: Leverage Chamber communications to promote your business, and enjoy referrals from fellow members.

Connect: Connect with the business community through a variety of networking events hosted by The Chamber, as well as through our weekly newsletter, website, and social media.

Represent: Be a part of the active business voice of The Chamber & be represented by a full time lobbyist.

Create: Raise your profile in the business community through your membership with The Chamber by participating in an Action Team or committee.

Let’s connect

Give us a call, send us an email or drop by our office. 541-779-4847 business@medfordchamber.com The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County 101 E. 8th St. Medford, OR 97501 medfordchamber.com

March 2023 | The Business Review

The Business Review | March 2023

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

We are a company of doers. Problem-solvers. Trailblazers. We are welcoming. Engaging. Friendly. Informative. We’re haulers in polo shirts, mechanics with power tools and customer service staff who are always happy to lend a hand. We embrace the power of service and champion the environment. When you’re a customer, you’re part of our family. Waste disposal. Recycling. CNG fuel. Shredding. Compost. WE ARE ROGUE. And we’re proud to be part of the community we’ve called home for over 80 years.

roguedisposal.com

March 2023 | The Business Review

EMBROIDERY • SCREEN PRINT • DIGITIZING • APPAREL

(541) 210-9999 • 837 S Riverside • Medford, OR 97501 www.MasterStitch.net • Lois@MasterStitch.net Find us on Facebook. Facebook.com/MasterStitch&Printing We are on Instagram. Just look for Master Stitch!

The Business Review | March 2023

March 2023 | The Business Review

RENEWING & NEW MEMBERS RENEWING MEMBERS THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

THANK YOU FOR YOUR MANY YEARS OF SUPPORTING THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY THROUGH YOUR CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP

Pacific Power 103 Years - Member Since 1/1/1920 (888) 221-7070 Southern Oregon Credit Service, Inc. 47 Years - Member Since 3/1/1976 (541)773-6238 Living Opportunities, Inc. 42 Years - Member Since 2/1/1981 (541) 772-1503

Jackson County Fairgrounds/ The Expo 34 Years - Member Since 12/1/1989 (541) 774-8270 Pro Weld, Inc. 23 Years - Member Since 3/29/2000 (541) 826-1404 Porters Dining at the Depot 22 Years - Member Since 2/14/2001 (541) 857-1910 HUB International Northwest, LLC Member Since 2/13/2019 (541) 650-6765 Cliff Creek Cellars Member Since 1/5/2020 (541) 855-5330

Hampton Inn 22 Years - Member Since 3/21/2001 (541) 779-0660 Helix Information Services 22 Years - Member Since 3/21/2001 (541)772-4692 McCaw, Lyle - American Family Ins. 22 Years - Member Since 3/21/2001 (541)858-2582

John L. Scott Real Estate - Medford Member Since 2/18/2010 (541) 779-3611 Rogue Community College Foundation Member Since 8/11/2016 (541) 956-7294

Primerica - Keith Stone Member Since 3/1/2022 (541) 690-1329

NEW MEMBERS

Aquatic Edge Pools LLC Member since 2023 (541) 227-3663 AZGM Member since 2023 (541) 841-9379 Cloud 9 Consulting Member since 2023 (541) 450-4156 CravingCave Member since 2023 (541) 690-1270 DEI Engineers Member since 2023 (541) 897-0021 Directors Mortgage Member since 2023 (541) 821-1604 DJ Design Member since 2023 (541) 324-2240 Juggernaut Marketing Member since 2023 (541) 816-8114 Nothing Bundt Cakes Member since 2023 (707) 228-9791

Juggernaut Marketing Member since 2023 (541) 816-8114 Public Lands Member since 2023 (458) 225-3921 ROCKSTAR TC Services LLC Member since 2023 (541) 512-5570 Rogue Valley Times Member since 2023 Signal Member since 2023 (971) 393-5015 SJ Home Loan Team powered by Empire Member since 2023 (541) 840-5598 The Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant Member since 2023 (541) 482-6414 Thryv Member since 2023 (541) 292-3737

When consumers know that a business is a member of the local chamber, there is a 49%

increase in favorability towards that business. Source : The Schapiro Group Study Call Kira! 541.608.8522

The Chamber is here to help your business!

The Business Review | March 2023

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www.medfordchamber.com

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