The Business Review May 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

MAY 2022

The Beauty & Flavors of Oregon Wine Country

CONTENTS MAY 2022 | VOLUME 22 | ISSUE 5

LEADERSHIP MATTERS 4 A Letter from the Editor OREGON UPDATES 6 T he Beauty and Flavors of Oregon Wine Country PROVIDING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES 12 F orum Review: Highlighting Medford’s Success with Sports Tourism PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY 14 A Local’s Guide to Rogue Valley Wine Country REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES 16 B ipartisan Effort Being Made to Improve Safety for Legal Cannabis Businesses 18 M ore Than $82 Million in Secure Rural Schools Funds to Go to Oregon Counties LOCAL SPOTLIGHT 24 G range Co-op Awards Local Students with $14,000 in Scholarships 25 E mployees Recognized as Banner Bank’s Best 26 M eet Chamber Staff: Ashley Cates 30 F ranz Bakery Partners with Stracker Solar to Make New Facility Net Zero Electric MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

The Business Review | May 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

May 2022 | The Business Review

LEADERSHIP MATTERS A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

M ay is a busy month in the Rogue Valley. The wine industry across the state celebrates Oregon Wine Month, and locally, we encourage people to savor our region’s best wines. When you explore local vineyards, you also have the opportunity to discover the numerous festivals and outdoor markets happening this time of the year. The Young Professionals Network (YPN) held another fun and successful event at Walkabout Brewing earlier this month. It was great to see our valley’s business representatives gather, network and connect. Even the rain couldn’t keep our YPs away! The next meet-up is set for Thursday, June 9th at Hummingbird Estate. If you haven’t yet, click here to register. Only a couple spots remain in The Chamber Leadership Program, and there is still time to apply. The program includes eight educational sessions and participants meet the third Tuesday of each month from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The program includes tours, demonstrations, lectures, briefings, and personal development training, and runs from August 16, 2022 - April 18, 2023. Program scholarships are also available for small businesses and non-profit organizations. Visit our website to apply. During the May Forum, a panel of speakers from Travel Medford discussed how Medford is leading the charge in sports tourism through advocacy, venue development and event procurement. Local tourism is on an upward trajectory, and Medford is poised to continue to grow as a desirable travel destination. Read the review on page 12. The Chamber’s next Forum series will be on June 13, 2022 at 12 p.m. It will be hybrid with the option to attend virtually, or in-person at the Rogue Valley Country Club. Join us for an insightful and informative event with our monthly sponsor Jackson County. Click the following link to Register for Forum. The Chamber understands companies are seeking employees, and members of the community are looking for job opportunities. Therefore, 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. Our community and local businesses are hosting markets, pop ups and events throughout spring and summer. Now is the time to visit our local businesses, share their updates, like their pages, and support everything happening in our community.

Yours in success,

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

The Business Review | May 2022

May 2022 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

Oregon Wine Experience Highlights The Beauty and Flavors of Oregon Wine Country Southern Oregon | May, 2022 | Contributed O regon Wine Experience (OWE) showcases diverse wines from across Oregon, introducing

attendees to new wineries, varietals, flavors and more. It is one of the top wine and culinary celebrations in Southern Oregon and this year’s event will take place August 17-21. In addition to being held at a different location and premiering a new event, it is also the first time the Oregon Wine Experience will be held in person since 2019. “It was completely virtual the past two years, and we’re so grateful our sponsors and wineries have stayed with us the entire time,” said Desirae MacGillivray Myers, Communications and Marketing Manager for the Asante Foundation. Myers said everyone involved in OWE is thrilled to be back under the tent and celebrating in person again. Even with OWE a few months away, there’s already a lot of buzz

continued on page 7

The Business Review | May 2022

New growth on old vines from Roxy Ann Winery signals the beginning of wine season in Medford, Oregon.

surrounding the new location. Stage Pass is a seven-acre site bordering Jacksonville which will allow OWE to take place under a 38,000 square foot tent. The five main events will include the first ever Collectors’ Tasting, Founders’ Barrel Auction, Miracle Auction & Salmon Bake and Grand Tasting. The Medal Celebration will be broadcast online and have a small studio audience. “The entire event will be set among the vines, so we are truly immersed in Oregon wine country,” Myers said. In addition to the traditional events held in previous years, OWE is excited to present the Collectors’ Tasting, an invitation-only event where guests receive an exclusive opportunity to sample the wines from the 2022 Founders’ Barrel Auction. But the heart of Oregon Wine Experience is, and always has been, the numerous wineries and the unique wines they produce. “The wineries decide how they want to participate in OWE,” said Myers. “With the Founders’ Barrel Auction, many wineries donate wine which gets their labels in front of more people and potential new customers,” Myers explained.

This year’s schedule has the best from previous years in addition to new events: • Wednesday, August 17: Medal Celebration • Thursday, August 18:

Collectors’ Tasting • Friday, August 19: Founders’ Barrel Auction • Saturday, August 20:

Miracle Auction & Salmon Bake • Sunday, August 21: Grand Tasting • Ultimate Vintner Dinners: Amall gatherings which take place at wineries and culinary partner locations throughout Oregon from June through August

Photos courtesy of Untapped Media Co.

continued on page 8

May 2022 | The Business Review

continued from page 7

Wineries could also submit their wines to be judged or they could pour at the grand tasting, among other options. There are many ways for the wineries to find their own niche within the Oregon Wine Experience. “Over 100 wineries participate in OWE, and a large portion of those are from the Rogue Valley AVA and Applegate AVA,” said Myers. “But we are seeing an uptick in participation from wineries in the Willamette Valley and other regions of Oregon.” As they prepare for this year’s event, Myers said their team learned a lot during the pandemic and have adopted some new practices. “We embraced livestream opportunities. We’re keeping some of that because we realized we could grow the event virtually,” Myers explained. “This year we’re live streaming the Medal Celebration to anyone who wants to watch.” For people who want to attend OWE, some of the events will have single tickets available for purchase. Information on tickets is available on the Oregon Wine Experience website.

All of the proceeds from Oregon Wine Experience benefit Asante Foundation. Continuing its support of Southern Oregon’s 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 part of the six-story pavilion under construction at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. Myers said that as it gets closer to August, people are excited about the upcoming events and more wineries are signing up to participate. “Our sponsors and winery partners are thrilled. They are excited to showcase their wines and celebrate in person again,” said Myers. n

The Business Review | May 2022

You Drink We Drive

Join us on an enlightening wine tour through the oldest wine region in the state of Oregon.

Book Your Tour Today WineHopperTours.com 541.476.WINE

Wine tours of Rogue and Applegate wineries.

May 2022 | The Business Review

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 | May 2022

May 2022 | The Business Review

PROVIDING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Forum Review: Highlighting Medford’s Success with Sports Tourism Speakers: T.J. Holmes, Senior Vice President of Travel Medford; Angela Wood, Director of Sales & Sports Development at Travel Medford; Ashley Cates, Creative Director at Travel Medford Sponsored by: Travel Medford D uring the May Forum, a panel of speakers from

Holmes then directed his attention back to sports tourism. With the rise in youth sports, Holmes said families are now combining sports tournaments with vacations — aptly named, “tournacations”. And those families want to maximize their time in between games by visiting local attractions, restaurants and shops. “The latest industry reports show that direct spending for the sports tourism sector was $39 billion in 2021, with an economic impact of $92 billion,” he said.

Travel Medford discussed how Medford is leading the charge in sports tourism by developing a regional brand to stake a flag in Medford as the sports and recreation hub of the West Coast. Upon launch of

the new brand campaign, Travel Medford aims to continue to move the needle in sports tourism for Medford through sports advocacy, venue development and event procurement.

T.J. Holmes, Senior Vice President of Travel Medford

Ashley Cates, Creative Director at Travel Medford

According to T.J. Holmes, Senior Vice President of Travel Medford, Medford is the eight largest city in Oregon, and destination marketing plays a vital role in overall economic development. “In 2021, we saw an increase in tourism spending,” he said. “Medford is also tracking a record year in hotel occupancy.” He explained that Travel Medford’s mission as a Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) is to drive overnight visitation to increase economic impact. When more people visit the area, they spend money at other local businesses. Additionally, Travel Medford is dedicated to serving the community and elevating its stakeholders and partners. “To accomplish this, we advertise Medford as a premier travel destination,” he said. An integral part of this mission is the Tourism Council — a 13-person, volunteer group. The board is composed of people who represent local restaurants, wineries, sports, the performing arts, lodging, the airport, attractions, downtown, and more.

To help capitalize on this movement, Travel Medford is creating and launching a new sports brand. Holmes passed the presentation onto Ashley Cates, Creative Director at Travel Medford, to introduce the new brand. Cates described the strategic steps taken to create an identity around sports. “We had to discover who we are as a community and how to create an ‘X factor’ that’s unique to us. That eventually becomes a brand identity,” she explained. During their brand strategy work, Cates said they discovered it’s nearly impossible to find a sport you cannot do in the Rogue Valley, whether that’s soccer, baseball, whitewater rafting or one of many others. As they developed the new brand, several words and phrases came to the forefront when describing Medford and the Rogue Valley. “We’re diverse, inclusive and adventurous. But our most unique factor is that Medford is centrally located on the West Coast, making it a mecca for sports of all kinds,” she said.

The Business Review | May 2022

This led to the new brand statement — “Your Sportground: Where the West Coast Plays”. Cates played a new video which brought this statement to life. It highlighted the energy that radiates from Medford, which is the epicenter for sports in the heart of the Rogue Valley. To further discuss the impacts of sports tourism

Holmes ended the Forum by describing the many assets in Medford and the Rogue Valley, especially those related to sports tourism. “The Lithia & Driveway Fields (formerly U.S. Cellular Community Park) opened in 2008 and has had $134 million in economic impact since its inception,” he said. With several new projects on the horizon, including the Rogue Credit Union Community Complex, this will only add to the Rogue Valley’s portfolio of world-class facilities, venues and resources, helping the region flourish and grow. n

Angela Wood, Director of Sales & Sports Development at Travel Medford

in the Rogue Valley, the next part of the

presentation was given by Angela Wood, Director of

Sales & Sports Development at Travel Medford. Wood introduced the “Know Your Role” brand awareness marketing campaign, which started about three years ago. It was created to help change and improve the culture and bad behavior around sports. She explained this campaign is just one of the projects that the Southern Oregon Sports Commission (SOSC) works on. “The Southern Oregon Sports Commission was founded in 2013 to advocate for sports tourism and the significant impact it brings to Southern Oregon,” she added. Wood described how youth sports has been plagued by various issues over the years. First, participation in youth sports is declining in almost every sport. Seventy-four percent of young athletes drop out of sports by age 14 because they’re not having fun anymore. Then, 80 percent of referees quit before two years of service and 84 percent of those officials think the abuse is getting worse, with more than 70 percent wanting to see change in the programs. These numbers were one of the many reasons “Know Your Role” came to be. “The essence is you can be a parent, athlete, official or coach, but you can only be one. Know your role,” Wood stated. She explained the campaign started with banners and videos to help spread the message across the community. Know Your Role has been a success locally, and now other communities are taking notice. “We’ve had people from across the country ask about Know Your Role,” Wood said. To help other communities implement Know Your Role, Wood said they created a game plan to guide people through the process. The comprehensive tool kit includes customizable banners and videos, among many other assets. “The word is spreading and there’s more inquiries all the time. It’s moving the needle and changing the culture of sports,” Wood said.

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

May 2022 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

A Local’s Guide to Rogue Valley Wine Country Written by Emily Hunter, Travel Medford F rom the cradle of the country’s beginnings, the Heart of the Rogue has uniquely cultivated wines for the ages from its special soils. The Cascade and Siskiyou Mountain ranges wrap their arms around the hills and slopes, creating a bowl of protected topography that relates closest to that of France.

experimental vineyard in 1968, and this would create a revolutionary wave to revive the valley. Now home to more than 150 wineries, the valley is home to hundreds of delectable varietals, exciting wine events and beautiful tasting rooms awaiting your exploration.

Whether you are looking to discover the four diverse wine trails that trek the lands, or you seek to uncover your new favorite varietal, the valley has something for every palette FROM ROOTS TO RIESLING A gold rush of $70 million in findings and the Donation Land Act of 1850 brought thousands of settlers to the rugged rogue country. These early settlers recognized quickly that the climate around the area was perfect for farming, and, of course, wine. In 1852, settler Peter Britt began growing grapes and later opened Valley View Winery in 1873 as Oregon’s first official winery. Before unforeseen changes in the industry during its infancy, Valley View closed in 1907 and wouldn’t reopen until 1972. Prohibition forbidding the sale, transportation and possession of alcohol halted the development of wineries from the beginning of the 20’s to the 30’s until entrepreneurs traveled from northern Oregon. John Wood and Ron Honeyman founded Honeywood Winery in 1934, establishing Oregon’s oldest continuously operating winery. Following this, an OSU professor planted an

The Business Review | May 2022

CLIMATE & TOPOGRAPHY Along the enchanting woodlands and lush greenery, the Rogue Valley is flanked on all sides by grand mountain ranges. Cutting through the north end of the valley lives the wild and scenic Rogue River, running off into the Applegate, Illinois and Bear Creek tributaries. The rivers and wildlife create delicious, natural soil for grape growing and the cultivation of delightful wines. Varied soils include mixes of metamorphic, sedimentary and volcanic derived soils running from sandy foam to thick clay.

Unlike the average valley, the rogue sits at 2,000 feet, compared to California’s Napa Valley floor at 150 feet. This allows for ranging swings in temperature from day to night, a pivotal fator in the uniqueness of the Heart of the Rogue’s distinct wines.The warm temperatures of the day allow for sugar development through photosynthesis, while the coolness of the night allow the acidity to return from the wine. This process creates a longer ripening period for balanced wines, in both flavor and alcohol level. From heavy bodied dry-climate wines like Sauvignon, Syrah and Tempranillo to the cooler Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay - the Rogue Valley has something for everyone! WINE TRAILS Looking to begin your journey through the ever-beautiful wine country but you’re not sure where to begin? Allow yourself to be guided along one of the four lovely wine trails! Take a tour on your own, or book a full or half day tour through Bravo Tours for the ultimate tasting experience. No single varietal defines the Rogue Valley. Its diversity is as endless as its possibilities, with many different experiences and events just waiting for you to attend. Explore all the Heart of the Rogue has to offer with our event calendar, and raise your glass to national wine month in style. n

Find out more about the Rogue Valley Wine Scene on our website! TravelMedford.org

May 2022 | The Business Review

REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

Bipartisan Effort Being Made to Improve Safety for Legal Cannabis Businesses Bipartisan Group of Senators Calls to Include the SAFE Banking Act in Compromise House-Senate Competitiveness Bill Washington, D.C. | May 12, 2022 T oday, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led 22 of their colleagues in a bipartisan effort requesting that congressional leadership include the Secure and Fair Enforcement Kevin McCarthy in the House, notes the SAFE Banking Act has passed the House six times—most recently as an amendment to its version of the bipartisan competition bill, and urges leadership to ensure the text of that amendment remains in the final conferenced version of the bill to be considered by both the House and the Senate. “The SAFE Banking Act, as included in the House-passed

(SAFE) Banking Act of 2021, which would allow state-legal cannabis business to access banking services, in the final version of competitiveness legislation currently being negotiated between the House and Senate. Passage of the SAFE Banking Act, which Merkley has introduced since 2015, would help ensure that legal cannabis businesses do not have to operate in all-cash—the current reality for thousands of small businesses across the country, which has led to ongoing threats of robbery and assault for business owners and employees. The letter sent to Senate Leaders Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell, and Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Leader

America COMPETES Act, would allow banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions to offer banking services to legally-operating cannabis businesses without fear of punishment by federal regulators,” wrote the lawmakers. “Currently, thirty-seven states and the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana for medical use, and eighteen states and the District of Columbia allow adult recreational use. As a result, the cannabis industry has become a powerful job creator and a significant generator

The Business Review | May 2022

of tax revenue. However, financial institutions are often reluctant to transact with cannabis-related businesses, even in states that have some form of legalized cannabis, due to legal and regulatory risks arising from inconsistent federal and state laws. “Allowing cannabis businesses operating legally and in compliance with state law to access financial services without federal reprisal would address public safety and compliance challenges, helping communities reduce cash- motivated crimes,” they continued. “Law enforcement organizations have publicly testified before Congress about these cash-related safety risks, including theft, robbery, and serious violence perpetrated against employees responsible for conducting what should be routine business operations.1 The same law enforcement organizations also have testified about the importance of moving these large amounts of cash in the cannabis industry into the banking system, where accounts are monitored in accordance with existing federal anti-money laundering laws and the Bank Secrecy Act. Enacting the SAFE Banking Act via the jobs and competitiveness legislation before us would support a rapidly growing industry that creates jobs, fosters innovation, supports small businesses, and raises revenue in states that have chosen to legalize cannabis, while reducing safety risks to industry employees and the public alike.” Senators Merkley and Rosen have repeatedly advocated for the bipartisan SAFE Banking Act and have been a vocal advocates and leaders for federal action that treats Oregon’s and Nevada’s legally-operating cannabis businesses fairly. In addition to Senators Merkley and Rosen, the letter is signed by Senators Steven Daines (R-MT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Gary Peters (D-MI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Angus King (I-ME), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Patty Murray (D- WA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Chris Coons (D-DE). Full text of the letter can be found here and follows below: May 12, 2022 Dear Leader Schumer, Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, and Leader McCarthy, We write to request that the final conferenced American competitiveness, jobs, and innovation package retain the text of the Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act (SAFE Banking Act) of 2021 included in the House of Representatives’ American COMPETES Act of 2022. The House has now passed the SAFE Banking Act six times, including most recently as

an amendment to its version of the bipartisan competition bill, and we ask you to ensure that the text of that amendment remains in the final conferenced version of the bill to be considered by both the House and the Senate. The SAFE Banking Act, as included in the House-passed America COMPETES Act, would allow banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions to offer banking services to legally-operating cannabis businesses without fear of punishment by federal regulators. Currently, thirty-seven states and the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana for medical use, and eighteen states and the District of Columbia allow adult recreational use. As a result, the cannabis industry has become a powerful job creator and a significant generator of tax revenue. However, financial institutions are often reluctant to transact with cannabis- related businesses, even in states that have some form of legalized cannabis, due to legal and regulatory risks arising from inconsistent federal and state laws. Allowing cannabis businesses operating legally and in compliance with state law to access financial services without federal reprisal would address public safety and compliance challenges, helping communities reduce cash-motivated crimes. Law enforcement organizations have publicly testified before Congress about these cash-related safety risks, including theft, robbery, and serious violence perpetrated against employees responsible for conducting what should be routine business operations.2 The same law enforcement organizations also have testified about the importance of moving these large amounts of cash in the cannabis industry into the banking system, where accounts are monitored in accordance with existing federal anti-money laundering laws and the Bank Secrecy Act. Enacting the SAFE Banking Act via the jobs and competitiveness legislation before us would support a rapidly growing industry that creates jobs, fosters innovation, supports small businesses, and raises revenue in states that have chosen to legalize cannabis, while reducing safety risks to industry employees and the public alike. The House of Representatives already added the SAFE Banking Act as an amendment to the America COMPETES Act by a bipartisan a vote of 262-168, and on February 4, 2022, passed the amended America COMPETES Act by a bipartisan vote of 222 to 210. The standalone legislation on which the amendment is based previously passed the House of Representatives 321-101, garnering the support of more than three-quarters of the chamber and a majority of the members of each party. The bill’s list of co-sponsors is also bipartisan in both the House and the Senate. Given the demonstrated broad support for this measure, we ask you to ensure that the text of the SAFE Banking Act remain in the forthcoming final conferenced version of the jobs and competitiveness bill when it comes to the House and Senate for final votes. This will help cannabis-related businesses, support innovation, create jobs, and strengthen public safety in our communities. We look forward to working with you on this important issue. n

May 2022 | The Business Review

REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

More Than $82 Million in Secure Rural Schools Funds to Go to Oregon Counties Washington, D.C. May, 2022 U .S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley this week announced that Oregon counties will receive more than $82 million in payments “Secure Rural Schools payments are a crucial investment into our rural communities and help to provide vital services, ranging from schools to infrastructure and public safety,” said Merkley. “We must continue to support our rural communities—and it’s great news that these funds are heading to Oregon counties and rural communities to help tackle the ongoing threat of wildfires and promote economic growth in every corner of the state.”

under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS) for school and road maintenance, youth job training, wildfire prevention, watershed restoration and habitat conservation. “For the better part of two decades, SRS payments have maintained an economic lifeline for Oregonians counting on quality schools, dependable infrastructure, forest maintenance and more,” said Wyden, who co- authored the original SRS law in 2000 and secured three additional years of funding for the SRS program in the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “I am gratified to see these dollars go to help Oregon communities tackle the ongoing threat of wildfire and support crucial community services like education, public safety and environmental conservation.”

The SRS program provides critical funding for schools, roads, and other municipal services to more than 700 counties across the nation. A portion of United State Forest Service funds generated through multi-use activities, such as grazing, timber production, and special use permits support rural counties impacted by federal forestland to improve the health of communities, and can include improving schools and roads, preventing wildfire, stream and watershed restoration, improvement of fish and wildlife habitat, and opportunities for youth training and employment.

The Business Review | May 2022

SRS Payments by County

County

FS SRS

BLM SRS

TOTAL SRS

Baker

$899,053

n/a

$899,053

Benton

$132,547

$776,096

$908,642

Clackamas

$1,260,086

$903,108

$2,163,194

Columbia

n/a

$586,072

Coos

$242,286

$1,831,999

$2,074,285

Crook

$1,405,520

n/a

$1,405,520

Curry

$1,928,561

$1,081,517

$3,010,078

Deschutes

$1,242,858

n/a

$1,242,858

Douglas

$7,191,527

$8,291,540

$15,483,067

Grant

$4,008,265

n/a

$4,008,265

Harney

$1,580,419

n/a

$1,580,419

Hood River

$598,384

n/a

$598,384

Jackson

$1,710,262

$4,139,275

$5,849,537

Jefferson

$522,739

n/a

$522,739

Josephine

$1,116,477

$3,866,625

$4,983,103

Klamath

$6,819,118

$830,371

$7,649,488

Lake

$2,339,278

n/a

$2,339,278

Lane

$9,444,633

$4,332,448

$13,777,081

Lincoln

$1,577,259

$114,720

$1,691,979

Linn

$3,348,412

$825,257

$4,173,669

Marion

$1,276,136

$435,387

$1,711,523

Morrow

$141,435

n/a

$141,435

Multnomah

$193,018

$180,105

$373,123

Polk

$4,110

$723,692

$727,802

Tillamook

$811,010

$191,225

$1,002,235

Union

$845,060

n/a

$845,060

Wallowa

$1,140,972

n/a

$1,140,972

Wasco

$896,042

n/a

$896,042

Washington

n/a

$98,869

Wheeler

$598,898

n/a

$598,898

Yamhill

$199,879

$206,539

$406,418

TOTALS

$53,474,244

$29,414,845

$82,889,088

May 2022 | The Business Review

The Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) does more than fly people from place to place; MFR is a prime location for transporting cargo as well. Airport Director Jerry Brienza stated, “MFR’s location proximate to the interstate and rail lines makes it an ideal hub for our shipping partners. Additionally, Medford is the largest city centrally located between Sacramento, CA and Portland, OR, and MFR’s air freight operations serve all of Southern Oregon, Northern California, and the respective West Coastlines.” In 2021, air cargo at MFR totaled more than 9,303,300 tons. MFR hasn’t seen a number like this since 2000 when the year closed out with 9,492,401 tons. Air Freight Growth at MFR the Highest in Over a Decade!

The Business Review | May 2022

Where Fun Is A Lifestyle The Village at Medford Center Come be a part of Medford’s only entertainment district with over *2.8 million annual visitors and boasting the longest dwell times. We have a full lineup of events planned from May - December! Call today to hear about On-Site Branding and Advertising opportunities. We have something for all ages!

@thevillagemedfordcenter thevillagemedfordcenter.com

*placer.ai 631 Medford Center, Medford OR 97504 | 541.500.2401 Click HERE for more branding and advertising information.

BIG CLEANUPS REQUIRE A BIG BIN

LIFE CAN BE A MESS. The boxes in the garage you’ll get to “someday.” The attic full of “treasures” you no longer treasure. Even the everyday stacks and piles can seem overwhelming. A temporary cleanup bin from Rogue Disposal & Recycling can be a great solution. Each five-yard bin holds roughly the same as thirty 32-gallon trash cans. You can schedule the bin for up to three nights, and the cost includes delivery, removal and one dump of the bin. Bigger bins are available too. Cleaning day has never been easier.

roguedisposal.com

May 2022 | The Business Review

LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

AUG 16, 2022 - APR 18, 2023 Developing Leaders for the Future of our Community

ENROLLMENT is Still OPEN

Class Registration extended to July 1st, 2022. Scholarship Application extended to July 18th, 2022

medfordchamber.com

The Business Review | May 2022

LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

DEVELOPING LEADERS FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR COMMUNITY

Welcome to Leadership! Class Orientation & Introductions

August 16, 2022

Get to know your classmates, meet The Chamber staff, do some goal setting, and learn about the different boards, action teams, and committees around the Rogue Valley for you to get involved in.

02 Tourism in the Rogue Valley

September 20, 2022

Take a backstage look at some of the major tourist attractions in our area, learn what draws people from all over the world to our region, and learn just how many people come to the Rogue Valley by air each year.

03 Agriculture & Development

October 18, 2022

Take a detailed look at what’s growing in Southern Oregon. As we shift our city scopes to provide more jobs and boost our economy, our farmlands and world famous vineyards are also leading the way in taste and sustainability.

May 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Grange Co-op Awards Local Students with $14,000 in Scholarships Medford, OR | May 5, 2022 | Press Release G range Co-op has awarded nine scholarships, totaling $14,000 to high school

seniors in Southern Oregon and Northern California for the 2022- 2023 academic year. Eight recipients have each received $1,500 to be used towards higher level education. One top recipient received a $2,000 scholarship. Since 2012, Grange Co-op has awarded scholarships totaling over $132,000! “Grange Co-op is excited to announce our 2022-2023 top scholarship recipient, Lillian Young, as well as our other eight recipients,” states Jason Wall, Grange Co-op Marketing Manager. “It was very difficult to narrow down to the top nine. It was clear that the students chosen were the top of their class and have bright futures ahead of them. We are proud to help support their future with our GrangeGives scholarship.” Grange Co-op is proud to announce eight individuals as recipients of $1,500 scholarships: Sydney Moore of Grants Pass, OR., Hailey Cox of Grants Pass, OR., Kinsey Hullman of Klamath Falls, OR., TJ Rohwer of Chico, CA., Jack Mornarich of Roseburg, OR., Hannah Taylor of Live Oak, CA., Masie Skelton of Red Bluff, CA., and Marissa Magaña of Sutherlin, OR. Grange Co-op is pleased to announce the top scholarship award recipient, Lillian Young of Central Point, OR a $2,000 scholarship. A link to Student Bios can be found here. Grange Co-op scholarships are merit-based. Recipients must meet a minimum requirement of a 3.50 GPA, have actively participated in

school or non-school related activities including but not limited to 4-H, FFA, DECA, FBLA, or Work Experience, and live in Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, Lake, Curry, Douglas, Siskiyou, Shasta, Tehama, Del Norte, Modoc,

Yuba, Sutter, Colusa, Glenn, or Butte counties. Grange Co-op seeks to recognize and invest in young individuals who are actively pursuing their education and taking the next step into post-secondary education. n

The Business Review | May 2022

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

COMMUNITY is our Middle Name

Employees Recognized as Banner Bank’s Best Medford, OR | May, 2022 | Press Release T wo local Medford- area Banner Bank employees

have been selected to receive the Banner’s Best award. This award represents the highest level of recognition within the company and the recipients are truly Banner’s best. The following employees received the Banner’s Best award for surpassing their individual professional goals last year, as well as providing exceptional customer service to the Bank’s clients and their fellow colleagues: “We are fortunate to have employees of this caliber who choose Banner Bank as the place to share their talents,” said Mark Grescovich, Banner Bank President and CEO. “This level of excellence is a key reason Banner was again selected by Forbes as one of the 100 Best Banks in America.” Less than five percent of all Banner employees receive this award. Recipients are selected by members of executive leadership. n

Jay Stormberg, Vice President, Senior Commercial Relationship Manager

RCC supports our community by: • Helping students access education for getting to work or to transfer to a University with over 80 degrees or certificates available. • Providing lifelong learning with continuing education and workforce development. • Supporting economic development through our Small Business Development Center (SBDC). • Promote adult basic skills with GED® preparation and skills upgrades.

Bobbie Jo Boskovich, Client Services Manager, Medford McAndrews Branch

541-956-7500 www.roguecc.edu

May 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Meet Chamber Staff: Ashley Cates

A shley Cates has recently been hired as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Travel Medford & The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County. Prior to starting this position, Cates has worked in marketing related to the tourism industry for nearly 14 years, holding prominent Marketing Director and Creative Director positions throughout her career. “I am thrilled to have Ashley on our Chamber team. Her passion, expertise and energy will help elevate our community,” said Eli Matthews, President & CEO of The Chamber. As a department within The Chamber, Travel Medford executes one of The Chamber’s four strategic objectives, which is to promote the community and market the city as a premier travel destination. “Ashley helped build a successful marketing foundation when she served as

the Creative Director for Travel Medford via Spotlight Marketing during the past four years,” said T.J. Holmes, Senior Vice President for Travel Medford. “Her marketing strategy, brand direction, and public relations expertise has aided in growing Medford’s presence in the tourism industry, and we are excited to have her join the team.” Holmes said Cates has lived and worked locally as well as in Australia, Spain and New Zealand. Her extensive background in the wine and hospitality industries gives her an intimate understanding of the Rogue Valley. Cates graduated from the University of Oregon with a bachelor’s degree in 2010. She was pinned with the International Guild of Sommeliers in 2015 and obtained her gold pin certification by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute in

Ashley Cates, Chief Marketing Officer of Travel Medford

collaboration with the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association in 2018. Most recently, Cates graduated from the Oregon

Tourism Leadership Academy in 2021. n

The Business Review | May 2022

May 2022 | The Business Review

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 | May 2022

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

Let’s create tomorrow, together.

@bannerbank

(800) 272-9933

bannerbank.com

@bannerbank

Member FDIC

May 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Franz Bakery Partners with Stracker Solar to Make New Facility Net Zero Electric Six elevated Strackers will power new Franz Bakery Outlet Store and Depot in Medford, producing 170,000 kWh clean solar energy per year Ashland, OR | May 12, 2022 | Press Release A shland’s Stracker Solar was chosen to design and build a state-of-the-art solar installation for Franz Bakery’s new Outlet Store and Depot in Medford, Prime contractor JB Steel is leading the construction of the 21,000 sq. ft facility and its premises.

“With the increased demand for green energy, we felt it was important that we have the ability to include solar generation into our projects”, said JB Steel Project Manager Alex Batzer about the time when the company first started conversations with Stracker Solar. “Bringing our clients best-in-class solutions is an essential part of how we do business, and solar is no exception. We chose to partner with Stracker Solar because of their unique product that is not only perfectly compatible with parking lots but also the most efficient PV system available.” “We are thankful for JB Steel and Franz Bakery for choosing us for this project”, says Jeff Sharpe, Founder and CEO of Stracker Solar. “It is a great example of businesses working together to bring more energy resilience and

utilizing their unique elevated dual-axis solar trackers. The six-Stracker installation in the parking lot will make the new location net zero electric (offsetting all the facility’s power needs), while accommodating possible future EV charging stations. “Franz is proud to support sustainability energy efforts in partnership with Stracker Solar at our new Medford Outlet Store and Depot location”, says Mike Petitt, Chief Financial Officer at United States Bakery (DBA Franz Bakery). “We continually seek opportunities to reduce energy use – the solar trackers at this location will provide an optimal solution to reduce energy costs and support climate action in the community.”

The Business Review | May 2022

sustainability to our local communities. Which is what Stracker Solar is about.” As the need for solar energy continues to increase in both the commercial and public sectors, we expect greater demand for solutions like the elevated Strackers that maximize solar energy production with the smallest footprint. “Giving up large areas of valuable land for solar generation is not a viable path for most communities. For true sustainability, we need to preserve land use while

generating as much clean energy as possible,” says Sharpe. JB Steel started site work on the premises in January 2022 with the installation of the solar trackers planned for early June. We expect the full completion of the project around mid-summer 2022. We hope the local community will be excited about the brand-new Franz Bakery Outlet Store and Depot that is 100% powered by the energy of the sun. n

About Strackers: • By following the exact position of the sun throughout the day, Strackers generate 50%-70% more solar energy than same-sized rooftop solar, carport or fixed ground mount systems. This efficiency translates to a 55%-65% lower carbon footprint as well. • Stracker’s 20’ pole-mounting allows continued use of the grounds below with no need for fencing. • Strackers are developed and manufactured in Ashland by Stracker Solar and are documenting unparalleled performance across a variety of northern California and southern Oregon climates. • Strackers are the only dual-axis trackers that carry the valued UL 3703 listing (proof of compliance with the highest electrical and mechanical engineering standards) and qualify for Energy Trust of Oregon incentives. https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator CONTACT INFORMATION: Brigitta Banki, Marketing and Communications Director • bbanki@strackersolar.com Stracker Solar • Ashland, OR • 541-631-1275

May 2022 | The Business Review

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The Business Review | May 2022

To learn more about our healthcare solutions for your local business, scan the QR code or visit us at: www.healthnetoregon.com/southernoregon Health Net, your partner for affordable health insurance.

May 2022 | The Business Review

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

The Business Review | May 2022

May 2022 | The Business Review

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

RENEWING MEMBERS THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

NEW MEMBERS

Bear Creek Golf Course Member since 2013 541-773-1822 Bell Hardware Of Medford Member since 1982 541-773-7918 Crater Lake Ford Lincoln Mazda Member since 2018 541-773-3673 Jackson County Farm Bureau Member since 1999

Pacific Retirement Services Member since 2010 541-857-7211 Cascade Self Storage Member since 2011 541-772-6060 RE/MAX PLATINUM Member since 2011 541-734-5500 Partnerships in Community Living, Inc. Member since 2012 541-955-5186 Guild Mortgage Member since 2015 541-890-8463 Office Technologies, Inc. Member since 2016 541-773-2015 Admire Aesthetics Member since 2018 541-210-8806 HUB International Northwest, LLC Member since 2019 541-650-6765 BioSkin Member since 2019 541-203-9231 Tom R. Parker Enterprises Member since 2019 916-257-0058 Frederick Reichensperger, CPA, PC Member since 2020 541-773-8541 Southern Oregon Motorsports Member since 2021 541-326-5883

Doug Schmor Civic Member Member since 2022 Ridgeview Residential Inspections Member since 2022 (541) 531-7614 Aspire Property Management LLC Member since 2022 (541) 778-5996 Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids Member since 2022 541-646-5010

541-830-8000 KOBI-NBC 5 Member since 1965 541-779-5555 Mercy Flights, Inc. Member since 1988

Paper & String, Inc Member since 2022 541-690-9393 Butte Creek Mill Foundation Member since 2022 541-690-5356

541-858-2600 Pronto Print Member since 1976 541-779-1952 Pulver & Leever Real Estate Company Member since 1965 541-773-5391 Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Member since 1975 541-779-5010 SASCO Fasteners Member since 1987 541-779-2024 Southern Oregon Subaru Member since 1983 541-245-2000

RHT Energy Inc. Member since 2001 541-770-5884 Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions Member since 2003 541-770-5905

Precision Electric Member since 2006 541-773-6279

Carestream Inc. Member since 2008 541-826-4511 Twin Creeks Retirement Member since 2008 541-664-8880 Home Instead Senior Care Member since 2009 541-734-2700 All Phase Weatherization &

Construction, LLC Member since 2009 541-826-9600

The Business Review | May 2022

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