The Business Review April 2022

A monthly online digital publication, The Business Review targets business leaders from the Rogue Valley and beyond. This means that your published articles and advertising message are being seen, read and remembered by those who are seeking your products or services in and around Jackson County and within more than 55 Oregon communities.

THE BUSINESS REVIEW THE CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY

APRIL 2022

The State of Real Estate in Jackson County

CONTENTS APRIL 2022 | VOLUME 22 | ISSUE 4

LEADERSHIP MATTERS 4 A Letter from the Editor OREGON UPDATES 6 T rends in the Southern Oregon Real Estate Market 8 A sante Named One of the World’s Best Hospitals CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY 10 O regon Workforce & Economic Update PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY 14 Y our Complete Guide to the Wild & Scenic Rogue River 16 R ide the Rogue Registration is Open! 18 T echnology Industry Trends, Opportunities, and Challenges in 2022 20 O regon Wine Experience ® Announces New Location, 2022 Event Plans REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES 24 F ederal Funds for Forests Include Oregon and California 32 S OHS Gala Dinner and Auction 36 Jackson County Domestic and Public Well Assistance Program PROVIDING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES 40 D iscussing the Evolution of Healthcare at the Chamber of Medford & Jackson County Forum MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

24 26

The Business Review | April 2022

Promote. Promoting the community. Create. Creating a strong local economy. Connect. Providing networking opportunities. Represent. Representing business issues. Our Strategic Objectives

Meet the Editorial Staff

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

Irmes Dagba-Craven Vice President, Communications & Programs irmes@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8534

Kira Zavala Director of Business

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

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

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

medfordchamber.com

April 2022 | The Business Review

LEADERSHIP MATTERS A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

E ven amidst spring rain and snow showers, the excitement surrounding upcoming outdoor activities is palpable. Events, festivals, farmers markets and pop-up shops are springing up everywhere, allowing more people to experience our local businesses and community. We are excited to announce the Young Professionals Network (YPN) is back! We are holding our first meeting April 14th at Roxy Ann Winery. If you want to reconnect with young professionals from across Medford and Jackson County, the next meet-up will be May 5th at Walkabout Brewing Company. Register here. A few spots remain in The Chamber Leadership Program, so submit your application soon. The program includes eight educational sessions and participants meet the third Tuesday of each month from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. to cover a specific topic. There are also tours, demonstrations, lectures, briefings, and personal development training. The program runs from August 16, 2022 - April 18, 2023. Program scholarships are available for small businesses and non-profit organizations. Visit our website to apply. In this month’s Forum, our keynote speaker, Dr. Ben LeBlanc, M.D. and Chief Executive of Providence Medical Group for the Oregon Region, discussed how the healthcare industry has endured numerous changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For Providence and many other hospitals, it has been the catalyst for new technologies, such as telehealth, in addition to changing how hospitals and staff provide patient care. The Chamber’s next Forum will be on May 9, 2022 at 12 p.m., with Travel Medford as the monthly sponsor. It will be a hybrid event, with the option to attend virtually, or in person at the Rogue Valley Country Club. Register for Forum on our website. Additionally, we are looking for businesses to host Greeters from mid-July to December 2022. If your business would like to host it, please contact Shelly Wager at 541-608-8526. The Chamber understands many companies are seeking employees, so we created the Chamber Job Board to connect businesses with employees in need of work. Employers who are Chamber members may post their jobs at no charge. View the Job Board and learn more on our website. With the community buzzing with activity, now is the time to support our local businesses. The Chamber wants to see our community grow, and it gets stronger when we find ways to share our passions and skills with one another.

Yours in success,

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

The Business Review | April 2022

April 2022 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

Trends in the Southern Oregon Real Estate Market Jackson County | April 2022 | Contributed

T he housing market in Medford and Jackson County continues to endure a variety of challenges, including a low amount of available inventory, price increases, a competitive market and much more. Many of these issues mirror what is happening throughout the nation, as buyers and sellers attempt to navigate a tough real estate market. “We have a lack of inventory, but the demand is still there

“Median home prices have soared,” said Wright. “In our area, price appreciation is about 15-20%, which is one of the highest in the state.” According to Wright, the median home price for this quarter is $397,500, which is 54.5% higher than five years ago. For rentals, statistics are not reported as formally, but it seems that appreciation is also around 15-20%. Unfortunately, between supply chain issues and the cost of construction, new houses cannot be built quickly enough.

and people are looking for homes and rentals,” said David Wright, owner and broker at REMAX Platinum, and owner of CPM Real Estate Management Services. He added the real estate market was tight before the pandemic, and the loss of homes from the Almeda and Obenchain fires exacerbated the lack of affordable housing in the area. “Our business is driven by supply and demand, and we are struggling with inventory for purchases and rentals,” said Dixie Hackstedde, principal broker at John L. Scott in Medford. Even with the struggles surrounding inventory, she said pending sales are up over 12%. But with a lack of inventory also comes an increase in price.

Hackstedde said the rental market suffers from the same problem of low supply and high demand. “I expect demand to increase because the median price of homes is too high. Many landlords are selling their rentals, especially single-family residences. They are liquidating those houses because there is an opportunity to sell for high market prices,” she said. However, while Wright noted that the Jackson County real estate market is competitive, it is not as white-hot as a year ago when there were multiple offers on everything. He said there are over 400 homes in the residential

David Wright, owner and broker at REMAX Platinum, and owner of CPM Real Estate Management Services

The Business Review | April 2022

market in Jackson County, which is above last year but below normal market levels. While these challenges affect all prospective home buyers, it makes things especially difficult for first-time buyers. According to Hackstedde, it’s important for first-time buyers to work with a strong team of professionals to help them navigate the market. “Create a good relationship with a local lender and an experienced full-time realtor,” she explained. “Get a pre- approval from that lender because it says you are ready to buy. Listen to your realtor and lender because they will

Additionally, Wright doesn’t see a bubble happening in 2023. While there’s a strong demand, lenders have used better lending fundamentals than during the 2008 crash. Whether you are considering buying or selling, Hackstedde noted that housing wealth is the largest source of wealth among families, being 10x the median value of all of their other assets combined. However, she believes there will be more renters entering the market because they are being priced out of purchasing a house. “There is not a lot of multi-family homes being built right now, so supply and demand issues will worsen.” Wright encouraged buyers and renters to stay the course as they enter the real estate market.

Dixie Hackstedde, principal broker at John L. Scott in Medford

give you information about the market. Do what they tell you, and be patient because the process takes time.” Even with many multiple offer situations, higher prices and less inventory, Hackstedde said it’s still a good time to buy or sell. “Prices are going up and that may continue for a while. We are not hearing that interest rates will decrease; they’ll probably go up. As long as people want to come to our area, there will be a high demand,” she added. Looking ahead to 2023, Hackstedde said there is a lot of cash in the market, with over 20% of current sales being cash sales. The market should keep moving and increased prices may level out a bit as interest rates go up. Wright agreed there will still be a competitive market in 2023, but he doesn’t see price appreciation continuing at the same rate it has for the past 1-2 years. He said there are projects in motion for multi and single-family homes, which will take the pressure off of price. “We can expect 3-5% price appreciation this year. With rates rising, I don’t see appreciation staying around 15- 20%,” he explained.

“It’s not easy right now, but you’ve got to keep your eyes open and be prepared to act when something is available,” he said. n

April 2022 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

Asante Named One of the World’s Best Hospitals Jackson County | April 2022 | Contributed T he past two years have been difficult for hospitals around the world. The COVID-19 pandemic stretched resources to the brink and put a tremendous weight on the shoulders of doctors, physicians, nurses and all health care workers.

The long hours, time spent away from family, and navigating through an unprecedented worldwide pandemic, are not forgotten. Hospitals across the globe answered the call to help patients, including Asante Rogue Regional in Southern Oregon, which was recognized as one of the world’s best hospitals by Newsweek and Statista Inc. Since the pandemic began in 2020, hospital staff have endured a unique set of challenges never encountered

before. But this nomination shows how their resilience, drive and dedication helped them succeed against incredible odds. For many years, Asante has been a true leader in the health care industry. Previously, they have been recognized by Watson Health as one of the top 15 health systems in the nation nine years in a row. Additionally, Asante hospitals

The Business Review | April 2022

hold a Five-Star Quality Rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Asante’s success is also due in part to their strong commitment to meet the needs of and improve the health of the communities they serve. The hospital is governed by a local board of directors composed of providers and volunteers. This focus on keeping things local allows their organizational decisions to be made by people who live and work in the community. When hospitals receive this nomination, they are reviewed and surveyed on several points; Asante stands out because of their excellence in everything they do. The hospital maintains excellent standards of care, shows respect for everyone, practices honesty, serves the community, and works as a team. Receiving this honor is especially meaningful after the unprecedented challenges Asante’s doctors, nurses and employees faced during the pandemic. This nomination reflects their enduring commitment to the health and safety of the entire community. Each year, Asante grows and becomes more involved in the local community. They will continue to evolve to meet new challenges and embrace opportunities for best practices that benefit their patients. n

PHOTOGRAPHY

B US INESS | E VENTS | H EADSHOTS | R EAL E STATE P HOTOGRAPHY S ERV I CES IN S OUTHERN O REGON 541-708-1754 KASHERPHOTO . COM

April 2022 | The Business Review

CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY

Oregon Workforce & Economic Update March 2022 Employment and Unemployment in Oregon’s Counties

In March, unemployment rates declined in 35 of Oregon’s 36 counties. Wheeler County’s unemployment did not decline, but held steady over the month. Fifteen counties had unemployment rates at or below the statewide rate of 3.8% in March. Klamath County had Oregon’s highest seasonally adjusted unemployment rate (5.3%) in March. Other countries with relatively high unemployment rates were Curry (5.1%), Lincoln (5.0%), and Grant (5.0%). Benton County registered the lowest unemployment in March, at 2.9%. Other counties with some of the lowest unemployment rates in March included Hood River (3.0%), Wheeler (3.0%), and Washington (3.1%). Between March 2021 and March 2022, total nonfarm employment rose in each of the six broad regions across Oregon. The five Portland metro counties in Oregon had combined job growth of 4.2% over the year, the fastest rate of any region. Employment also grew at a relatively fast pace in the Central Oregon region (3.8%) and the Willamette Valley (3.7%). Growth occurred at a slower pace in Eastern Oregon (1.8%), Southern Oregon (1.1%), and along the Coast (0.4%) . n

The Business Review | April 2022

Working Together in the Rogue Valley for a Stronger Community

April 2022 | The Business Review 11 541.622.8577 • 40 S Central • Medford, Oregon 97501 • cowcreek.com

Dawn Hartley VP, Relationship Banking Officer | Medford

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See how we’ve helped other businesses, and connect with a local banker at BankOnOPB.com.

The Business Review | April 2022

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

April 2022 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

Your Complete Guide to the Wild & Scenic Rogue River Written by Emily Hunter, Travel Medford T he Wild & Scenic Rogue River travels through the heart of the rugged Southern Oregon wilderness, filled with deep history along each stretch and

full of spectacular scenery, rich history, wildlife viewing and, of course, the thrill of jet boating, this is the perfect way to traverse the waters of the Rogue. Jet boat tours also include a 45-minute stop at Discovery Park, a beautiful private island beneath the cliffs of the Table Rocks. Once you’re there, the opportunities for activities are endless. Rent a paddle boat, stand-up board, inflatable boat or inner tube, or fishing pole for bass right off the docks. There are also shaded tables and hammocks for those seeking to relax amongst the beautiful scenery. Experience the Rogue River like no other, with a professional, thrilling guided tour. For the angler, the Wild and Scenic Rogue River is known worldwide as one of the most incredible places for fishing. Chinook king salmon, Coho silver salmon and both winter and summer steelhead make the Rogue River a premier angling destination. Fishing the Rogue is abundant all

edge. Beginning in the Rogue-Umpqua Divide Wilderness at Boundary Springs, the mighty river flows for 215 miles before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. The legendary Rogue River is well-known for its nationally- recognized steelhead and salmon fishing, as well as its attractions Discover all your heart’s desire, from whitewater river rafting, fishing, hiking, and exploration that is nothing less than rogue. AN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE Located on the banks of the Rogue River, Rogue Jet Boat Adventures offers professionally guided adventures for a complete Oregon experience along the mighty river. Packed

The Business Review | April 2022

year round, with guided tours and excursions offered every season. Fishing the Rogue fishing guide tours offer trips along the Upper Rogue River, home to legendary fishing holes perfect for back bouncing, running plugs, side-drifting, bobber and fly fishing! Adventurers can also immerse themselves in the beauty of the river by riding along its wild rapids. Rogue Rafting Company offers professionally guided whitewater rafting and fishing tours, allowing adventurers to traverse the currents of the river and build their skills with confidence. With single and multi-day trips available, fall in love riding down the Rogue River in an inflatable raft, making memories, and leaving your mark on Southern Oregon’s most famous river. Hiking lovers can strap on their boots and walk along the breathtaking rapids. Create your own hiking trip, and see the beauties of the river at your own pace. Perfect for families and friends alike, hiking the Rogue River is one of the many beautiful ways to experience the river and wildlife in an intimate way. Whether you choose to hike, raft or jet boat along the river, experience the rugged beauty and rich history of the Rogue River. Filled with tales and rich with history, the Rogue River stands as a powerful crown jewel in the Heart of the Rogue. Outdoor enthusiasts of all types travel to experience a taste of the legendary swimming holes, whitewater rapids and year-round fishing that would make any angler believe they reached paradise. n

Discover more about the Rogue River on our latest blog! TravelMedford.org

April 2022 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

Ride the Rogue Registration is Open! Rogue River, OR | April 2022 | Press Release

Registration is open for Ride the Rogue 2022, taking place on September 24, 2022. The registration link is: ridetherogue2022.eventbrite. com THREE different rides are available for participants to choose from; 62 mile, 40 mile, and 20 mile routes will be followed by a great post-ride party with food, craft beer and music at Palmerton Park in Rogue River. Monies raised from the ride help with the completion of the Rogue River Recreational Corridor and Greenway, a multi-use project that will connect Grants Pass to Ashland, Oregon. The completed path will showcase our

beautiful lands along the Rogue River for all of us to enjoy. This is our only fundraiser and your support is appreciated whether you ride, sponsor, volunteer, advertise or share our event. Thanks in advance to the returnees and the new folks. You come and we will get it built! The only item not listed yet is Tshirts; as soon as we have the correct information, we will let you know. Register: ridetherogue2022. eventbrite.com Contact us at: info@ roguerivergreenway.org or 1-800- 541-0925, leave a message. n

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

The Business Review | April 2022

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April 2022 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

Technology Industry Trends, Opportunities, and Challenges in 2022 March 14, 2022

Continuing Innovation Technology transformation of legacy sectors continues to drive innovation and opportunity. Disruption spans multiple industries including: • Retail • Financial services and payment processing (Fintech) • Health care • Logistics • E-commerce Future Opportunities and Challenges Five items to consider as you assess your organization’s operations in coming years include: • Labor and inflation • Funding • Start-up growth • Technology • Taxes

Trends that impacted technology companies in 2021 are likely to pose challenges and opportunities to the industry in the coming years. Learn more about the state of the market and how you can position your company for success. Major Trends Impacting Technology Companies Three major trends that will continue to affect businesses into 2022 include: • Increased transactions • Rising valuations and funding • Continued innovation Increased Transactions Merger and acquisition (M&A) activity continues at a fast pace. The 2021 increase could be due to pent-up demand related to COVID-19’s impact on 2020, or it may be the result of a widespread desire to close transactions prior to the tax-regulation changes of 2022; possibly, it’s a combination of both. New software companies are facing fewer barriers given the ability to license infrastructure and related pay- as-you-go services. A continued proliferation of new businesses and companies could have the ability to boot- strap for longer periods of time, which would drive Series A funding rounds higher. Rising Valuations and Funding Valuations and funding continue to rise at a fast pace, with a record number of venture capital, private equity transactions, and overall funding in 2021. These trends are expected to continue given the capital available and desire to fund innovation. While it could seem natural to expect a decline in M&A activity in 2022 and 2023, funds to support such transaction volume remain available, so transactions are likely to remain steady for the foreseeable future.

The Business Review | April 2022

Labor and Inflation Inflation and the rising cost of talent are expected to drive up labor costs in 2022 and beyond, which could impact growth as companies compete for skilled talent. It could also lead to offshoring at earlier stages of the development life cycle. With a workforce that continues to be largely remote or dispersed, organizations face new operational and regulatory challenges as well as opportunities to mitigate rising labor costs. communications and media, and medical technology (Medtech), could improve the ability to innovate and raise nondilutive capital. Capital markets remain available to emerging and growth- stage companies, including initial public offerings (IPOs), special purpose acquisition companies (SPAC), and institutional investors, which increases the ability to raise funds and accelerate growth. Funding Federal funding for certain sectors, such as Start-up Growth The costs to launch a business by leveraging infrastructure could continue to decrease, which would give emerging

and growth-stage technology companies the opportunity to grow. Companies are accelerating through the traditional stages of a business life cycle—from emerging to growth to mature—which also accelerates the need to build infrastructure and manage the risks and opportunities presented to them. Technology Companies are driving the increased demand for System and Organization Control (SOC) examinations, Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) assessments, the need to better understand their IT environments, systems integration, and cybersecurity to ensure services provided to their customers are technologically advanced. Taxes There are over 9,000 state and local jurisdictions that impose taxes on businesses, and their rules are in constant flux. Tax changes and regulation continue to be a challenge for companies. The need for organizations to stay informed, be compliant, and minimize exposure is predicted to continue. n

BIG CLEANUPS REQUIRE A BIG BIN

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roguedisposal.com

April 2022 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

Oregon Wine Experience ® Announces New Location, 2022 Event Plans Medford, OR | March 29, 2022 | Press Release O regon Wine Experience ® (OWE), one of the top destination charity wine and culinary events in the region, announced plans for its 2022 signature the five-day celebration for several years to come. “My family has been a steward of this land [Stage Pass] since the 1950s, and the current family members charged with its care have a vision to create

celebration taking place August 17-21 at a brand- new location. Stage Pass, a seven-acre site bordering Jacksonville, OR will be the new home of Oregon Wine Experience. For the first time since 2019, Asante Foundation’s signature

a wine-country focused community at Stage Pass. We also have a passion for economic development, and the tremendous evolution of our wine industry and related tourism is an important

event will take place under a 38,000 square-foot tent and feature five main events: the inaugural Collectors’ Tasting, Founders’ Barrel Auction, Miracle Auction & Salmon Bake and Grand Tasting. The Medal Celebration will be broadcast online for all to tune in and enjoy, with an intimate studio audience. “We’re thrilled to gather in-person again and celebrate in this exciting new location. With a backdrop amongst the vines, a larger footprint and the ever-growing philanthropic impact this event offers, there’s no doubt that Oregon Wine Experience is going to the next level,” said Andrea Reeder, vice president and executive director of Asante Foundation. The new location at Stage Pass enables OWE to expand

part of our future…this move to Stage Pass is wonderful for tourism, winery partners and the Oregon Wine Experience,” said Stephen Gambee, owner and partner of Stage Pass. This year’s schedule boasts OWE’s traditional events as well as new features: • Wednesday, August 17 – Medal Celebration: This event will be hosted via a livestream showing for anyone to tune in virtually. Viewers will have a front row seat as the 2022 Oregon Wine Competition ® results are announced. • Thursday, August 18 – Collectors’ Tasting: A new addition to the event series, this elevated, invitation-

The Business Review | April 2022

One-hundred percent of Oregon Wine Experience’s proceeds benefit Asante Foundation. Continuing its support of Southern Oregon’s local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital, Asante, this year’s funding will help build a new women’s and children’s hospital-within-a hospital. The two floors dedicated to women’s and children’s health care are a component of the six-story pavilion currently under construction at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford, OR. Other annual and year-round events continue this year. Oregon Wine Competition will take place July 15- 17, when six world-renowned wine experts travel to Oregon and evaluate wines submitted to the competition. Tickets also are available for select Oregon Wine University ® classes here and will be updated as more become available. For more information, please visit theoregonwineexperience.com or call (541) 789-5025. n

their exclusive creations from all corners of the state, attendees can bid online or from their phones for a chance to win these special cases. • Saturday, August 20 – Miracle Auction & Salmon Bake: During an opulent salmon dinner, the program will showcase the story of a local patient and the vast impact of philanthropy. 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. Online, mobile bidding will be open throughout the week for anyone to participate in the silent auction. • Sunday, August 21 – Grand Tasting: The largest event of the week, attendees will take a journey through Oregon’s award-winning wine and culinary pairings from restaurateurs. • Ultimate Vintner Dinners: These small, intimate gatherings will take place at wineries and culinary partner locations throughout Oregon wine regions from June through August.

Entrance to Stage Pass Winery, the new home for the Oregon Wine Experience.

only occasion will give guests the exclusive, early opportunity to taste the wines of the 2022 Founders’ Barrel Auction. Bidding will open online for all to participate. • Friday, August 19 – Founders’ Barrel Auction: Featuring winemakers and

About Oregon Wine Experience® Since its inception in 2015, Oregon Wine Experience® (OWE) has raised more than $8.2 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 15-21, 2022. 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 six specific initiatives including behavioral health, cancer care, expanded emergency services, Age-Friendly care and a new patient pavilion to house several areas of care including a new women’s and children’s hospital-withina- hospital, cardiac care, critical care and advanced surgical services. To learn more, please visit asantefoundation.org.

April 2022 | The Business Review

The Business Review | April 2022

April 2022 | The Business Review

REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

Federal Funds for Forests Include Oregon and California WASHINGTON, D.C. | April 2022 | Press Release

$31-million in federal funds planned for forest landscape restoration include projects in Southern Oregon and Northern California involving the Rogue Basin, Lakeview and Western Klamath Mountains. The Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Forest Service announced the funding today for 15 projects that “aim to reduce the risk of severe wildfires, support local economies, create jobs and enhance forest and watershed health in eight states. “The selected projects will enhance the work already accomplished through the program,” said Forest Service Chief Randy Moore. “The infusion of funding augments the work we do with other governments and partners around other important work such as improvements to infrastructure and the 10-year wildfire strategy.” Twelve new funded projects involve the Rogue Basin, Lakeview and Western Klamath Mountains, as follow from the USDA: California: $3 million to the Western Klamath Mountains Fire and Fire Resiliency Project, a 1.2-million-acre project to prepare the landscape for frequent, yet smaller, lower-intensity wildfires to protect communities and critical transportation routes. This work will increase watershed health and ecosystem resilience that includes areas traditionally managed by the Karuk Tribe. The work will also prepare the land for traditional burning. $3 million in the North Yuba River watershed across 356,000 acres. The watershed provides clean water for homes, communities, businesses and ecosystems. There is an urgent need to address high wildfire hazard potential and areas more susceptible to insects, disease and drought. Treatments will promote forest conditions that are more

resilient, while restoring watershed health and native biodiversity.

Oregon: $2 million to the Lakeview Stewardship project on 859,000 acres important to rural communities for recreation and forestry sector jobs. The goal is to create a healthy, resilient and functional forest landscape maintained with fire to mitigate the threat of high-severity wildfires to dry forests, habitat, water quality and communities. $3 million to the Southern Blues Restoration Coalition for a million acres that suffer from departed fire regimes, species composition, and forest stand densities that threaten to destroy key habitat, old growth, important aquatic resources and private property due to uncharacteristic wildfires and effects of a changing climate. The overarching goal is restoration at a scale that will help native wildlife thrive, create forests that are resilient to climate change, and support the health, safety, and prosperity of local communities. $3 million to the Rogue Basin Landscape Restoration Project across 4.6 million acres. The proposed work will accelerate urgently needed restoration treatments to meet long-term, collaboratively developed strategic goals of wildfire risk reduction, landscape resiliency, improved wildlife habitat, watershed protection, adaptation, and social and economic resilience. Three projects getting FY22 funds that received funding in previous years are all in Oregon and California, as follow from the USDA: Oregon: $3 million to Northern Blues Forest Restoration, a 10.4-million-acre project to reduce wildfire risk and prepare the landscape to safely manage fire. The area has a strong

The Business Review | April 2022

California: • $757,000 to Dinkey Collaborative, a 154,000-acre project that sits in the epicenter of unprecedented fuel loading due to the Southern Sierran tree mortality that to date has received $7.6 million in CFLRP funding. The Biden Administration says 24 funded landscape projects started in 2009 to advance treatments to reduce catastrophic wildfire risk for more than 4.5 million acres -- the size of Connecticut and Rhode Island combined and, “The projects also supported more than $2.3-billion in total labor income and engaged more than 420 organizations in local collaborative work alongside landowners and interested individuals. These landscape restoration activities established 224,000 acres of forest vegetation by planting, seeding, and natural regeneration while also reducing or eradicating invasive plants across 210,000 acres. Restoration also enhanced more than 1,760 miles of stream habitat. The multi-year funding commitment and collaborative capacity are key enabling conditions for these results.” USDA says the money comes from a combination of funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and annual appropriations. The selected projects are in California, Oregon, Arkansas, Colorado, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Washington. n

history of successful cross-boundary, all-lands restoration collaboration. $673,000 to the Deschutes Collaborative Forest Project includes 258,000 acres of high-value landscape with a broad array of collaborative support. Previously funded with $6.7 million, the additional funding will keep the project going for another five years. Efforts focus on reducing high-severity wildfire in the wildland-urban interface, protecting watersheds, preserving recreation areas, and providing jobs and wood products.

April 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

THEATRE HIGHLIGHTS AT THE 2022 OREGON FRINGE FESTIVAL Southern Oregon | April 18, 2022 | Press Release

Each year, the Oregon Fringe Festival curates a variety of theatre performances by a very diverse group of artists. Featuring both live and online experiences, provided below are a handful of the theatre performances that are included in this year’s festival.

The Business Review | April 2022

The 2022 Oregon Fringe Festival will take place live and online from Wednesday, April 27 - Sunday, May 1 with an emphasis on celebrating its zany community that embraces bold, innovative, and outrageously creative talent. For a complete list of performances and other creative opportunities that are being offered, please visit their website at oregonfringefestival.org. Resilience, Mia Raye Smith, Honorarium Recipient Resilience is an autobiographical solo performance that follows the experience of an African American woman accessing mental health care for her anxiety disorder, while highlighting the correlation between race, anxiety, and the healthcare disparities that communities of color face while trying to find treatment. Taking place in Queens, New York with over nineteen different characters, the performance depicts multiple experiences in various therapeutic settings, in addition to reimagining the strength that is needed on a journey of uncomfortable couches. Mia Raye Smith is an international award-winning writer and solo performer who was born in Detroit, Michigan, with an African American, Creole, and Acadian heritage from Louisiana. Spending her teenage years growing up in Queens, New York, it was there that she developed her characters from multicultural backgrounds. Mia’s performances flow through one single actor, playing characters from those various cultural backgrounds, genders, and ages. Studying Acting at William Esper Studio, Mia has gone on to produce and perform at numerous college campuses and theater festivals. She is a recipient of the Queens Council on the Arts Grant, the International Centre for Women Playwrights Grant, and most recently, the Dramatist Guild Mental Health Grant. Mia is a multi-hyphenate creative who strives to create boundary-breaking stories that reimagine American theater.

Performance Date(s): Friday, April 29, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Zoom

Saturday, April 30, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Zoom (Followed by Q+A)

Into the Unknown, Rosemary Kesselring Into the Unknown is a gothic fairy tale about two brothers lost in a strange forest. Will they find their way home? This free performance will present the culmination of a scholarly workshop investigating excerpts from Over the Garden Wall, a musical teleplay by Patrick McHale, with song covers by The Blasting Company. Into the Unknown is put together by a troupe of students from Southern Oregon University who are passionate about immersive theatre. Rosemary Kesselring is the Director.

Performance Date(s): Thursday, April 28, 7:00 - 7:30 p.m. SU Diversions (Stevenson Union)

April 2022 | The Business Review

A Ghost of Little Consequence, Kevin Victor Rae A Ghost of Little Consequence is a queer period farce in the spirit of Oscar Wilde and Moliere. Spurred by the appearance of his father’s ghost and the return of a long-lost lover, Lord Edwin Wellesley must choose between maintaining the life of a confirmed bachelor, or enter into the bonds of a heterosexual relationship. The matter is marriage… The question is to whom? Kevin Victor Rae is a queer writer, podcaster, and actor. Writing forms the core of his art and his focus is on queer speculative fiction. Kevin is currently producing a queer modern fantasy podcast and most days you can find him at his desk, or keeping his cat from committing crime.

Performance Date(s): Saturday, April 30, 8:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Zoom

Improv’d Improv, The Next Best Thing Improv’d Improv is a comedy show that is COMPLETELY improvised. Formatted like a game show, the performers will not know what game is being played next, or who they will be playing with. They will also have to incorporate audience suggestions throughout the show, resulting in the performers and audience ALWAYS being on their toes! Founded in 2012, The Next Best Thing has been spreading joy and laughter through comedy improv at Southern Oregon University. The group is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming space for performers with any level of experience while working together to further their craft. Currently run by Captains Bekah Kenney and Emily Perry, The Next Best Thing is excited to participate in the Oregon Fringe Festival.

Performance Date(s): Sunday, May 1, 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. SU Arena (Stevenson Union) or Livestream via YouTube

About the Oregon Fringe Festival: Each spring, the Oregon Center for the Arts produces the Oregon Fringe Festival (OFF), a multi-day event bringing together emerging creators and real- world artistic practitioners to share their respective experiences and to engage with each other’s work. The festival’s mission is simple: to provide a boundary- breaking platform for free expression and to celebrate unconventional art and unconventional spaces. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend our events. If you are a person with a disability who requires accommodation(s) in order to participate in this festival, then please contact Disability Resources at DSS@sou.edu in advance.

The OFF is committed to providing a boundary- breaking platform for free expression that amplifies the voices of those who are all too unrepresented in the creative arts industry. A lens focusing on equity, diversity, and inclusion will filter our selection process for all projects submitted. About the Oregon Center for the Arts: The Oregon Center for the Arts at Southern Oregon University serves as a creative catalyst for the mixture of students, educators, and artists from the state, the nation and the world. The beautiful Southern Oregon mountain setting provides a special place to learn, explore and train in all of the arts disciplines. Visit: oca.sou.edu

The Business Review | April 2022

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April 2022 | The Business Review

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