The Business Review June-July 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

JUNE/JULY 2022

Our New Visitor Center is Open! REVIEW AND PHOTOS ON PAGE 6

CONTENTS JUNE 2022 | VOLUME 22 | ISSUE 6

LEADERSHIP MATTERS 4 A Letter from the Editor CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY 6 N ew Medford Visitors Center Promotes Community & Tourism OREGON UPDATES 10 C hip Sealing Plans for Summer 2022 PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY 14 T ravel Medford Takes The Lead in Sports Tourism LOCAL SPOTLIGHT 18 Jackson County Toys For Tots Names New Coordinator 21 M etal Masters: Nominations Now Open for Local Heroes 22 R ogue Creamery Ranked #1 on Oregon Business’ 2022 Best Green Workplaces in Oregon 24 N ew Asante Pavilion to Increase Capacity, Capabilities, and Jobs 28 T ouchPoint Networks Leverages Latest Technology to Manage Networks with Apple Devices 30 H ow Legal Cannabis Affects Oregon 31 K OBI-TV/NBC5 and KOTI- TV/NBC2’s Bob Wise Wins Broadcaster of the Year 32 L ogos Public Charter School  ‘Rogue Pack’ Wins 26th Annual Oregon Envirothon! 34 C hamber Staff Highlight:  Cathy Watt, Office Administrator 35 F ire Season Started June 1, 2022 in Jackson and Josephine Counties FORUM REVIEW: JUNE 36 P resenting the 2022-2023 Jackson County Budget & Status of Unlawful Cannabis Activity FORUM REVIEW: JULY 38 July Forum: ‘State of the City’ Address MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

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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.

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The Business Review | July 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

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July 2022 | The Business Review

LEADERSHIP MATTERS A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

A fter some surprising — and desirable! — late-season rain, summer has officially arrived in the Rogue Valley. That’s when our beautiful outdoor assets beckon people to explore our amazing region. And with so many businesses offering unique adventures and experiences, there’s no shortage of things to do this summer. But a thriving community is built on a foundation of strong leaders. Professional, approachable and authentic leaders are the heart and soul of strong communities. That is why we are excited for the Chamber Leadership Program to begin. The program includes tours, demonstrations, lectures, briefings, and personal development training. Participants will take these important lessons back into their companies and out into the community. On June 23rd, The Chamber and Travel Medford held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new visitors center located in The Chamber building in downtown Medford. New life has been breathed into the building with fresh paint, new floors, cozy seating, swag branded with Medford’s “Heart of the Rogue” tagline, and much more. The remodel is the culmination of months of hard work among the staff and numerous community partners, and marks the beginning of a new phase for Medford and the Rogue Valley. The Young Professionals Network held two more successful events in June and July, at Hummingbird Estate and 4 Daughters Irish Pub. The next event will be August 11th on the upstairs deck of the Lithia building in downtown Medford. Tickets are $10 and include a drink and light food. You may register online. We also had our penultimate Forum in June. It focused on two important topics for Jackson County — the budget for the upcoming fiscal year, and the state of emergency related to illegal marijuana grows. The Chamber’s final Forum of the season was on July 11th. The City of Medford gave their annual “State of the City” address, describing many current and future initiatives happening in the community. We are also thrilled to announce that the 2022 Excellence in Business Awards will be held on October 13th. Nominations opened in July, and we hope you will support the people and businesses in our community which have had a profound impact. With summer in full swing, it is the perfect time to explore the Rogue Valley and its unique businesses. You will find everything from local farms, to rafting companies, zipline adventures, wineries, restaurants, new toy stores (for the little explorers), and much more. Small businesses are the heartbeat of the Rogue Valley and provide many offerings to discover throughout the summer and all year long.

Sincerely,

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

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July 2022 | The Business Review

CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY

New Medford Visitors Center Promotes Community & Tourism Medford, OR | June 23, 2022 | Contributed T he Chamber of Medford & Jackson County and Travel Medford celebrated a milestone by opening a new Visitor Information Center (VIC) in their

exterior, the windows are partially covered in beautiful photographs of local landmarks, such as Crater Lake. Upon entering the Visitor Information Center, you are immediately struck by the light, bright and airy feeling. Additionally, visitors and locals will love spending time pouring over the hand-illustrated map of the Rogue Valley, which covers an entire wall, from floor to ceiling. The drawings on the map are completely unique and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Adjacent to the mural is another Instagrammable moment set up with comfortable chairs and the Travel Medford logo recreated in lush green moss on the wall. Locals, business owners and visitors will also be able to purchase the new merchandise, which is branded with Medford’s “Heart of the Rogue” tagline. With everything

downtown office. On June 23rd, The Chamber and Travel Medford held a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark this momentous occasion. The revamped office and VIC is the start of a new era for The Chamber and Travel Medford. It will bring locals and visitors into the heart of downtown Medford and offer a central location to get information and merchandise, and experience a fun and vibrant environment. It will also make The Chamber and Travel Medford more accessible to local businesses. New life has been breathed into the building with fresh paint, new floors, cozy seating and much more. On the

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Chamber President and CEO Eli Matthews addresses the small crowd gathered at last month’s soft opening. Matthews highlighted the new features of the Visitor’s Center and thanked the many sponsors who donated funds or labor to the project.

from hats to mugs, backpacks, t-shirts, wine glasses, magnets, pins and more, there is something for every style. The merchandise allows everyone who walks through the doors to have the opportunity to represent Medford locally or in their hometown. It also offers a chance for locals and people from out of the area to showcase Medford’s unique personality to their friends, family and business associates. But the purpose of the new VIC extends far beyond tourism; it showcases how partnerships and promoting local businesses builds community. Numerous businesses participated in the remodel, either by donating materials, labor or funds to the project. Each space in the VIC has been touched by a hardworking local business and the people they employ. It is a reminder of how important businesses — large and small — are to a thriving community, and how a strong Chamber helps these businesses grow. The remodel is the culmination of months of hard work among the staff at The Chamber and Travel Medford, and numerous community partners. It marks the beginning of a new phase for Medford and the Rogue Valley — uniting local businesses, residents and visitors. n

Additional photos on page 8

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Addtional Photos from the Grand Opening of the Visitor Center

The new Visitor Center on the corner of East 8th and South Front Streets includes an updated store front featuring both Travel Medford and The Chamber logos. The Center also has plenty of swag items to remember your visit.

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The Business Review | July 2022

The V3Connect Business EXPO 2022 Aug 4 th , 2022 @ 9 AM to 3 PM Location: Rogue Valley Country Club ,MPPGVIWX6H1IHJSVH36 Calling all Southern Oregon business professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners! Use this link to get your ticket today! Discount code, use at checkout!

As a guest at the event, we will have an upbeat and fun event with networking, great sponsor companies, vendors, organizations, live presenters/speakers with gifts/drawings, and goodie bags for the first 100 – 150 people through the doors! Presenter topics: • Growing a business during difficult times ! The first presenter built a business over the last 2 years and is now selling it for 7 figures! • Building a brand that connects ! Why powerful brands connect, example of the

best processes of the pros, what to expect when working to build a phenomenal brand! • The power of Data for your business! Why do you need to use data, how you can even create systems to collect the data you need and What you can do with the data! • Data Security! Basic policy, how do you know if you have been compromised? How to build an accident response plan! • 5 th presenter to be announced! The V3Connect Business Expo is benefiting the local 501C3 SORIN – www.sorin.charity Southern Oregon Research and Innovation Network! This is a ticketed event and 100% of the profit from tickets goes to SORIN! Tickets are on sale now of $10.00. To request information about sponsorship, vendor tables and tickets email us at: ZGI\TS$KQEMPGSQ Event application/contact : To download the event application/contract use this link: https://bit.ly/3ONim4b

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July 2022 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

COMMUNITY is our Middle Name

Chip Sealing Plans for Summer 2022 An update from Jackson County Jackson County, OR | June 2022 | J. Domis W e know bicyclists really like to get this information As you can imagine, our advance planning can be

hampered at times by weather and other unforeseen events. We thank you in advance for your patience. Work will begin in earnest in late-June around the 27th of the month. Please note the dates of this work can change depending on weather and other factors. For those of you who want to see what we are planning to do on a daily basis, check out our Daily Project Listing - we update this each morning with the most current information on all our crew activities which may impact your travel significantly. Lastly, one of the nice things about chip sealing is the rate at which we move along. At approx. 300 feet a minute we can be there and gone in short order. For more information check out the article we did before on chip sealing as well as another article titled ‘9 Steps to a Good Roadway Surface. n

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.

- it definitely helps them plan their route to avoid riding on a rougher surface. Many of you know by now why we chip seal so much - it is a very cost-effective maintenance treatment. And while there can be some frustrations with the way it looks (and driving slower for a while for safety) the reality is the alternative is unaffordable. We’ve provided two listings of our chip seal plans again this year. The first is simply an alphabetical list of road names around our county which will be sealed. The second list is back this year - a route list showing how the work will actually progress. We plan to complete this ‘route’ list in order from top to bottom, but please note that plans can change sometimes due to various factors.

541-956-7500 www.roguecc.edu

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LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

DEVELOPING LEADERS FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR COMMUNITY

Welcome to Leadership! Class Orientation & Introductions

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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.

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PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

Lithia & Driveway Fields

Travel Medford Takes The Lead in Sports Tourism Medford, OR | July, 2022 | By Emily Hunter Y our launchpad to all things rogue, Medford holds more than just award-winning wine and the world’s best cheese. Home to state-of-the-art facilities,

Medford is a growing mecca for sports tournaments and events. With the rise of youth sports bringing travelers from around the nation, Medford has followed suit in its expansion of assets and attractions as Your Sportground™, Where the West Coast Plays. Just minutes from I-5 lies Lithia & Driveway Fields, home to baseball, softball, football and soccer fields. The Bear Creek Greenway, a 20-mile, multi-use path connecting cities from Central Point to Ashland, also runs through the park for tourists and locals to enjoy. Coming to Medford in 2023 is another grand facility that will be known as the Rogue Community Complex, or Rogue X for short. This complex will feature an 8,000 square foot competitive pool, and a recreational pool equipped with a vortex, interactive play features, slides and a beach- styled entry. The complex will also have 90,000 square feet of room for events, which can be filled by 8 basketball courts, 16 multi-use courts, or host trade-shows and other large events. In addition to incredibly designed complexes, the Heart of the Rogue is filled with natural assets and things to do that visitors won’t find anywhere else. Home to the Wild & Scenic Rogue River, visitors will discover world-class fishing and rapids, along with SOTAR river rafts, Sawyer paddles and oars, Pavati wakeboarding boats and Rogue Jet Boat

Hike, bike or equestrian on 1,740 acres of trails at Prescott Park.

Works manufactured boats, each producing equipment known nationwide for its cutting-edge technology. From the rivers to the mountains, Medford truly encompasses all things sports. Discover swooping valleys and mighty peaks all throughout the valley, with opportunities to hike, bike, run or ride horseback. Along with the traditional bike, Medford is a host to motorsport and ATV events, with the Southern Oregon Speedway

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The 140,000 square foot Rogue Community Complex will feature a recreational and competitive pool, 90,000 square feet of room for events, and several multi-purpose rooms.

and Medford Dragstrip venues. Medford is more than the regular sporting location, which is why it is the West’s ultimate location to do it all. Beyond hiking, visitors are welcome to rock climb - open to the experienced outdoor enthusiast or the indoor novice with Rogue Rock Gym. From the tops of the cliffs, Medford is also a host to the Wings Over Applegate event, featuring paragliding and hanggliding. Unique venues and events abound in Medford, with opportunities to do archery at Southern Oregon Archery, throw axes at Cascadia Axe - Southern Oregon’s premier axe throwing facility, or race the Rogue Marathon - a Boston Marathon qualifier. Home to more than just the recreational venue, Medford is Your Sportground to explore and experience the best of the West. With numerous opportunities for indoor and outdoor sports, Medford provides athletes and their families with truly unique experiences, and welcomes visitors to enjoy all the region has to offer from one central location. A place that rekindles the love of the game, celebrates sports of all types, and offers the space and equipment to do it all - Medford is Where The West Coast Plays. Whether

you seek more quiet moments in the mountains, to soar off a cliff, raft through the Rogue or throw axes at a premier facility - Medford is the place to experience it all. n

The legendary Rogue River is nationally-recognized for its salmon and steelhead fishing, world-class rapids and other excursions.

Discover more about the sports venues and offerings in Medford! TravelMedford.org

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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.

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!

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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

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Jackson County Toys For Tots Names New Coordinator Medford, OR | June 15, 2022 | Press Release K evin Campbell has been named new Coordinator for “Serving has been my life’s work and I am very excited about this new

Jackson County Toys for Tots. Kevin is a retired Command Master Chief with over 27 years of military service. During his time in the military Kevin worked on multiple Toys for Tots Campaigns.

opportunity to serve the citizens of Jackson County.” - Kevin Campbell

“Serving has been my life’s work and I am very excited about this new opportunity to serve the citizens of Jackson County.” - Kevin Campbell Previous Coordinator Kira Zavala will play a supportive role during the first year of transition. “It has been an honor to volunteer as Coordinator for the last 7 years. Kevin has amazing energy and Ideas; I am looking forward to supporting him and his goals to grow the Toys for Tots program bigger than it has ever been” – Kira Zavala Toys for Tots is the Nation’s flagship children’s Christmastime Toys For Tots new Coordinator, Kevin Campbell

charity. Every dollar or gift donated by the citizens of Jackson County stays in Jackson County and goes directly to support the less fortunate children within our community. Last year during the 2021 campaign Toys for Tots collected over 56,000 toys that were distributed, right here at home. To kick off the 2022 Toys for Tots Campaign, Toys for Tots will be at The Southern Oregon Speedway this Saturday, June 18th. The Young Marines will be selling 50/50 tickets with proceeds going to Jackson County Toys for Tots. Gates open at 5pm, hot laps at 6pm and races start at 7pm. For more info or to get involved go to www.toysfortots.org or email Coordinator Kevin Campbell at Jackson.county.or@ toysfortots.org n

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Dawn Hartley VP, Relationship Banking Officer | Medford

Running a business is challenging, which is why you need a bank that can help you and your business succeed. As a community bank specializing in business, Oregon Pacific Bank offers commercial loans, trust services, nonprofit solutions and more. HERE FOR LOCAL BUSINESS

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

EUGENE | FLORENCE | COOS BAY | ROSEBURG | MEDFORD 3250 Hillcrest Park Drive, Suite 100 Medford, OR 97504 | 541-858-0192

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July 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

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Metal Masters: Nominations Now Open for Local Heroes

Medford, OR, | July, 2022 | Press Release I n partnership with Lennox Industries and their annual Feel The Love program, Metal Masters is calling on family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers and local organizations to nominate deserving community heroes in need of a new HVAC system to feel safer and to breathe better in their home. Selected recipients will receive brand new heating and cooling equipment during this year’s Feel The Love Installation Week, taking place October 8-15, 2022. dealers have proudly supported deserving community members by completing over 1,500 free installations. As most homeowners spend more time inside their homes, Lennox continues to advocate for the importance of indoor air quality and the accessibility of clean, comfortable air for all. Selected recipients will receive brand new Nominations end August 31, 2022. Over the past 13 years, Lennox and its heating or cooling equipment during this year’s Feel The Love Installation Week, taking place October 8-15, 2022. “For the past few years, we’ve proudly participated in the Feel The Love program and partnered with Lennox to donate much- needed heating and cooling equipment to our local community,” said Jason Bradford, owner of Nacogdoches Sheet Metal, Plumbing & A/C in Nacogdoches, Texas. “As a Marine Corps veteran, the program and its mission are especially important to me. Lennox’

Metal Masters

“The spirit of Feel The Love is needed now more than ever as many in our communities continue to feel the health and financial impact of the ongoing pandemic,” said Quan Nguyen, VP & General Manager at Lennox Industries. “We, along with our dealers, are committed to providing consistently clean, perfect air to our local heroes who continuously put the well-being of others before their own.” Do you know a family, neighbor or community hero in need of a safer, more comfortable home? Please visit FeelTheLove.com to submit your nomination. n

Feel The Love program has allowed us to bring clean, comfortable air to fellow veterans or community heroes facing disabilities, financial challenges or job loss, which is incredibly rewarding.” The Feel The Love program is made possible through continued partnership and collaboration with the Lennox dealer network across North America. Since the inaugural Feel The Love program in 2009, Lennox and its dealers have completed over 1,500 free installations, with 130 installations occurring in 2021.

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Rogue Creamery Ranked #1 on Oregon Business’ 2022 Best Green Workplaces in Oregon The list comprises sustainably- minded companies with a strong culture and happy workforce Central Point, OR | June 13, 2022 | Press Release R ogue Creamery is thrilled to announce that it has been ranked at the very top of Oregon Business Magazine’s annual list of the 100 Best Green Workplaces in the state. Though the Central Point-based cheesemaker has consistently made the list for 13 years in a row, this is the first year Rogue Creamery has placed first. Oregon Business annually showcases companies and nonprofits whose employees rate their employers’ sustainability efforts highly. Ninkasi Brewing, Elephants Delicatessen, and Energy Trust of Oregon are among other prominent Oregon companies to make the list. “It means so much to be ranked the number one Green Workplace in Oregon. It’s a testament to the care and dedica - tion of our staff to making championship-worthy cheese in a responsible and forward-thinking way,” says President and Lead Cheesemaker of Rogue Creamery, David Gremmels. Rogue Creamery became Oregon’s first B-Corporation in 2014 and has been on the cutting edge of sustainability ever since. Since 2017, Rogue has ranked in the top 10% (and by 2021, the top 5%) of B Corps worldwide for its impact on people and planet. “Rogue Creamery uses cheese as our force for good in the world,” continues Gremmels, “balancing purpose with profit and considering the broader, community-wide impact of everything we do.” The award also comes on the 1-year anniversary of the prestigious recognition from the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy: the U.S. Dairy Sustainability Award for

“It means so much to be ranked the number one Green Workplace in Oregon.” - David Gremmels

President & Lead Cheesemaker of Rogue Creamery, David Gremmels overlooks Rogue Creamery’s recent solar panel installation.

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Outstanding Dairy Processing and Manufacturing. The award commended Rogue Creamery for its commitment to dairy sustainability, including programs for renewable energy and waste reduction, such as solar panel installation, reduced packaging waste, and their employee commuter program. Rogue Creamery was also honored on Oregon Business’ 2022 list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For.

“Together, these recognitions highlight our commitment to corporate social responsibility, evident at every desk and workspace at Rogue,” adds Gremmels. “It fills me with pride to see our team creating such a positive, productive, and environmentally-sustainable business model – for our state, our partners in cheese, and all businesses that aim to do right by their people and planet.” n

About Rogue Creamery: Rogue Creamery is a USDA certified organic cheese maker located in Central Point, Oregon. For nearly 90 years, Rogue Creamery has drawn from the beauty and flavors of Southern Oregon’s Rogue River Valley to create organic, handcrafted cheeses that have won international acclaim. But creating the world’s best cheese is only part of Rogue’s mission. They know that business – and in their case, cheese – can be used as a force for good. That’s why they became Oregon’s first public benefit corporation, “B Corp” for short, joining a global movement of companies that are committed to making the world a better place. Rogue Creamery is committed to making a difference socially, economically, and environmentally. Learn more at roguecreamery.com.

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

New Asante Pavilion to Increase Capacity, Capabilities, and Jobs Medford, OR | July 2022 | Press Release A santeForward is Asante Foundation’s most ambitious and significant philanthropic effort to date. The purpose of the campaign is to transform the quality and scope of health care available in Asante’s nine-county region, providing residents with exceptional medical care in our own community.

• The new Mary and Dick Heimann Cancer Center in Medford and expanded Helen K. Spears Cancer Center in Grants Pass • Implementing Age-Friendly care at Asante Ashland • Behavioral health certifications, facilities and providers to serve the growing need • The renovated and expanded Asante Three Rivers Medical Center Emergency Department Patient pavilion The largest project of the campaign to date is the six-story patient pavilion, which is currently under construction at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center and set to open in 2023. The pavilion alone will attract new talent to fill clinical and support roles. Human Resources estimates that 300 new positions will open for physicians, nurses, housekeepers, technicians and dietitians, among others. The economic impact to the region is tremendous from point of construction and recruitment efforts, to the growth

The key initiatives within the AsanteForward campaign will help expand the range of services the hospital system offers, and add technology and infrastructure to serve the community’s needs well into the future. Current AsanteForward campaign initiatives include: • A new patient pavilion to house several areas of care: • A new women’s and children’s hospital

• Cardiac care •Critical care • Advanced surgical services

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

common surgery or a major operation, modern procedures and cardiac care require ample space to operate, new equipment and the latest technology, and the very best physicians to improve the lives of patients. The new and renovated surgical suites and procedure rooms will provide patients greater access to the most advanced treatment options. Advanced surgical services The most advanced surgical services are directly dependent upon state-of-the-art facilities, featuring the latest equipment, along with highly trained surgeons. Current operating rooms do not provide standardized and optimal space for both patients and surgeons. Asante’s state-of-the- art advanced surgical services will help to ensure the best possible access and surgical outcomes for patients.

in real estate and local consumer goods when establishing a new life in Southern Oregon. To meet the most pressing needs and opportunities of the next 20 to 30 years, this facility will house a new women’s and children’s hospital, and increase capacity for critical care, cardiac care and top-of-class surgical facilities. Women’s and children’s hospital at Asante Rogue Regional Asante is committed to continue addressing the unique health care needs of mothers and children through elevating its services, technology and facilities. The women’s and children’s hospital will inhabit the top two floors of the pavilion. For the first time, these floors will bring pediatric and women’s services into one, co-located area of the hospital. This includes new and expanded space for the following services: • Pediatrics department • Pediatric outpatient infusion clinic for children facing cancer and other diseases requiring infusion • The region’s only level III Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) • Labor and delivery • Family Newborn unit • Obstetrics • OB Emergency Department • Support programs and services, such as Child Life Critical care Asante Rogue Regional is the regional referral hospital, covering nine counties and serving over 600,000 people. That means anyone who experiences things like serious car accidents, heart attacks and aneurysms will come to Asante Rogue Regional for care. These patients deserve to be cared for close to home, but today, that’s not always the case. To address this, the pavilion will be home to 64 critical care beds on the third and fourth floors—a 45% increase in capacity. All of the rooms will be standardized to take care of the most critically ill patients, with new technology and increased square footage. Additionally, there’s room for Asante to increase capacity if volumes increase. Cardiac care More than 700 patients underwent open-heart surgery at Asante Rogue Regional last year. That’s among the tens of thousands of people in our community who’ve needed lifesaving cardiac interventions since 1973. Whether it’s a

Learn more about the pavilion project and the AsanteForward campaign at asantefoundation.org.

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

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

TouchPoint Networks Leverages Latest Technology to Manage Networks with Apple Devices Leading Managed Technology Services Provider Protects IT Networks that

Rely on Apple/Mac Products Medford, OR | May 21, 2022 | Press Release T ouchPoint Networks, a leading managed technology services provider (MTSP), announced today that the company is helping business secure-ly manage their Apple devices, Mac OS, iPads and iPhones with a cloud- based managed IT services tool. TouchPoint Networks’s investment in sophisticated software solutions en-ables the company to effectively and efficiently monitor, manage, and secure Apple devic-es, including laptops, desktops, servers and tablets which rely on Apple or Mac OS. This is especially important as more organizations transition to fully remote or hybrid workplaces which demand more stringent security measures, in addition to more flexibility. While Apple products are ubiquitous in the modern workplace, especially in creative fields which require rapid innovation, IT companies have been reluctant to provide tech-nical support for Apple-related devices due to the lack of suitable tools, which ensure the safe,

excited to deliver unparalleled IT security, faster networks, more productive staff and ultimately increased profits, for our Apple-oriented customers,” con-cluded Whiteley. Through this partnership, TouchPoint Networks will be able to help SMBs deploy new devices in less than five minutes, through automated device enrollment and onboard-ing for end users. Additionally, once those devices are deployed within an organization, they will be proactively monitored for device issues with automatic remediation before they result in any downtime for end users, which

efficient and robust utilization of those devices. However, TouchPoint Networks now has the capability to streamline any IT network, not just Windows/PC- based networks, for more efficiency and security. For the end user, this means that creative industries will now have the same access to high-caliber, network security that any organization expects from their IT partner, without losing any of the functionality necessary for innovation.

is what individuals have come to expect from their technology. This is vital for organizations which don’t have the time or resources to dedicate to enterprise-grade IT management, but still want their technology to be protected through a proactive, preventative ecosystem which improves over time and doesn’t expose the organization to undue risks. Lastly, while the productivity and security

enhancements are obvious benefits for SMBs regardless of industry, TouchPoint Networks can now ensure compliance for indus-tries which have certain IT standards which companies must adhere to. “We’re excited to offer a truly robust IT management solution for our Apple clients,” commented Whiteley. “This will open the floodgates for more creativity to be unleashed in any organization that wants to benefit from Apple’s design-oriented devices.” n

“What’s really exciting about this is the simplicity of the back-end. Our solution sim-plifies the monitoring, management and continual optimization required to maintain Apple devices at a very high-level,” stated Chuck Whiteley, Branch Manager of TouchPoint Networks. “Our team can simply manage and secure all Apple devices within our custom-ers’ organizations. This will result in better maintained IT systems which will undoubtedly increase performance, boost productivity across the board and will also address cyberse-curity concerns. We’re

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The Business Review | July 2022

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July 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

How Legal Cannabis Affects Oregon Medford, OR | July 2022 | Contributed C annabis is always a hot topic. With legalization, communities have seen a rise in both legal and illegal activities. While it may not always be obvious and an overall economic boost that would otherwise not exist. Additionally, locally owned and operated businesses of any industry are far more impactful to a community than non-local stores. Cannabis is no different. Supporting local businesses keeps 25 percent more money in the community

which is which, there are very important distinctions that set them apart. The biggest differences being the quality of the product and the adherence to strict guidelines, rules and regulations that ensure creation of quality products that are lab-tested for consumer safety. When a community embraces legal cannabis, the strict regulations surrounding its production and sale allow for control. All legal cannabis products are tested for consumer safety and potency and regulated cannabis growers are monitored to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations including zoning and environmental laws. The legal cannabis industry provides jobs for the community, starting directly with cannabis grows and dispensaries where workers are needed to grow, process, distribute, and sell cannabis products. As an extension, there are secondary industries that benefit as well, including construction, accounting, financial, design services, and so on. In Oregon, cannabis jobs grew 4% in 2020, reaching 17,981 workers, and growth continues year over year. While cannabis is legal in Oregon, there are many states who have yet to legalize. This creates an influx of tourism

than non-local businesses which stimulates the local economy and provides opportunity for greater growth in the community. People have been consuming cannabis for decades, regardless of its legality, and will continue to do so. Legal cannabis means regulated, safe access, and tax revenue for the state. At a 17% state retail rate, the taxes placed on cannabis in Oregon brought in $178,262,488 in 2021. Where did these taxes go? These funds went towards the public school system, mental health/alcoholism/drug services, the Oregon state police, the Oregon Health Authority for drug treatment and prevention, and to Oregon cities and counties. Supporting legal cannabis is not only important for the health and safety of consumers, as they will continue to buy cannabis products, but will also benefit the community and the local economy. Grown Rogue is passionate about pure, quality cannabis products and will always be anchored in strong family values, authenticity, and integrity while being committed to educating and empowering the communities we operate in. n

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The Business Review | July 2022

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

KOBI-TV/NBC5 and KOTI-TV/NBC2’s Bob Wise Wins Broadcaster of the Year Medford OR | June 27, 2022 | Press Release:

F or the second time in his career, KOBI-TV/ NBC5 and KOTI- TV/NBC2 Vice President/ General Manager Bob Wise has been recognized as Broadcaster of the Year by the Oregon Association of Broadcasters. For nearly 40 years, Mr. Wise has been a visionary leader in the local television industry, making long-lasting contributions to the

steady growth of small market television broadcasting. He has dramatically improved the way local television stations work directly with their communities. Bob also created a successful template for bringing Federal and State political debates to small market studios. And he was one of the first broadcasters in the modern era of local television to revive the long-form interview within a newscast to showcase the activities of community leaders. This is Mr. Wise’s second honor as Broadcaster of the Year. He was previously recognized in 2018. “I am truly honored to receive this award,” Mr. Wise said. “I am grateful to be supported by the best staff in broadcast television and community partners that help NBC5 make a difference in our Southern Oregon and Northern California communities” In This Together, a local suicide prevention initiative launched by Mr. Wise and United Way of Jackson County Executive Director Dee Anne Everson, recently won the National Association of Broadcasters Service to America Award and the 2022 Northwest Emmy® Citation for Community Outreach. Patsy Smullin, President and Owner of KOBI-TV/NBC5 and KOTI-TV/NBC2 said Mr. Wise’s impact on broadcasting is wonderful. “Bob’s unique vision affects the future of local television. We cannot be more proud of him and his many contributions to our TV stations and to our region.” For further information, please contact Patsy Smullin at 541-779-5555. n

KOBI-TV/NBC5 and KOTI-TV/ NBC2 Vice President/General Manager Bob Wise

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July 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Logos Public Charter School ‘Rogue Pack’ Wins 26th Annual Oregon Envirothon! Team Headed to the National Conservation Foundation Envirothon In Ohio This Summer! Medford, OR. | July, 2022 | Press Release L ogos Public Charter School ‘Rogue Pack 2022’ Envirothon Team will represent the State of Oregon at the National Conservation Foundation (NCF)

Envirothon at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio July 24 – 30, 2022! This is the largest Envirothon in North America where each year over 25,000 high school students compete with their innovative solutions to balance quality of life and the quality of the environment. The ‘Rogue Pack’ secured their invitation to Ohio having captured 1st place at the 26th Annual Oregon Envirothon on May 6th at the Oregon Garden in Silverton, Oregon. The pack includes Logos high school students Christoph Anderson, Malachi Beal, Adam Hill, Naomi Nelson, and Andria Slaughter. Competing against 27 other high school teams, they garnered the highest score in the ‘Soils-Land Use’ testing station. This will be the 4th time a Logos Envirothon team will represent Oregon at the coveted annual competition. The 2015 Logos Envirothon Team was the first southern Oregon team to win the state competition, followed by 2017, 2019, and now again in 2022. At the NCF-Envirothon competing teams demonstrate their mastery of Aquatic Ecology, Forestry, Soils and Land Use, Wildlife, and a current environmental issue. This year the topic is ‘Waste to Resources’ to explore waste and its impacts on the environment. The Logos Rogue Pack, led by Logos Science & Inquiry teacher, Chris VanNess, has been devoting the past year to study and practice while working collaboratively with local community experts to develop practical and theoretical knowledge of natural resource and waste management. In addition, they are active participants in restoring and preserving natural habitats around Southern Oregon. “Studying, competing, and succeeding in Envirothon competitions has given me a chance to develop my interests in the environment and nature through a lens of understanding that I did not know that I had,” says

returning Rogue Pack team member, Adam Hill. “It is an honor to have the opportunity to represent Oregon at the National Conservation Foundation Envirothon.” The only hurdle between now and an NCF-Envirothon win is securing funds to get the Rogue Pack to Ohio! “Please support our journey to Ohio where we will represent the state of Oregon at the 2022 NCF Envirothon!” • Monetary donations can be made at their Go Fund Me page • Businesses are invited to donate ‘Trade Items’ that represent Oregon and the Rogue Valley. These items will be traded with competing teams from across the USA and Canada. • Stay connected on social media on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Tik-Tok @theroguepack22 • Learn more about the team and the NCF-Envirothon on the Logos website and National Conservation Foundation Envirothon website n From left to right Malachi Beal, Adam Hill, Christoph Anderson, Teacher Chris VanNess (in back)Naomi Nelson, and Andria Slaughter, also known as the Rogue Pack.

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The Business Review | July 2022

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July 2022 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Chamber Staff Highlight: Cathy Watt, Office Administrator July 2022 C athy has been with The Chamber for 10 years as the Office Administrator, responsible for all things financial

for The Chamber, Travel Medford, and the Rogue Valley Foundation. She is staff for the Board of Directors as well as several Action Teams of The Chamber. In her spare time, a trip in their Mustang to anywhere is at the top of Cathy, and

her husband John’s, to-do list. Good food with friends at one of the many excellent restaurants or wineries make for a perfect Rogue valley day. n

Advertise your business in The Business Review Contact us for a list of advertising and sponsorship opportunities. 541.779.4847 Business@MedfordChamber.com

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The Business Review | July 2022

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Fire Season Started June 1, 2022 in Jackson and Josephine Counties This Declaration Affects 1.8 Million Acres of Oregon Department of Forestry

Southwest Oregon DistrictProtected Lands JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, OR. | June 2022 | Press Release Fire Season on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Southwest Oregon District begins Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. The fire danger level will be “Low” (green) and the Industrial Fire

Precaution Level (IFPL) will be I (one). Lands affected by this declaration include 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forestlands in Jackson and Josephine counties. Following a warm and dry start to the year, April and May brought more typical spring-like patterns and precipitation to southern Oregon and helped in decreasing the amount of fire starts. Year to date, our firefighters have responded to 25 fires for a total of 22 acres burned; these statistics tell a much different story than last year, when during the same timeframe, we had responded to 89 fire starts totaling 120 acres. While temperatures and conditions haven’t yet become consistently warm and sunny, fuels are primed to burn, and years of drought have contributed to an increased fire risk. For these reasons, fire season is being declared at this time. Beginning Wednesday, the burning of debris piles and the use of burn barrels for burning debris will no longer be allowed in Jackson and Josephine counties. Even with recent rains, landowners are encouraged to check their previously burned piles from this spring and confirm that they have been extinguished. In low fire danger, the following activities are prohibited: • No debris burning, including piles and debris burned in burn barrels. • No fireworks on or within 1/8 of a mile of forestland. • Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited. • Campfires are allowed in designated campgrounds, and on private land with the landowner’s permission. Portable stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels may be used as well.

• Smoking while traveling will only be allowed in enclosed vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water and other specifically designated locations. • Any electric fence controllers must be approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories Inc., or be certified by the Department of Consumer and Business Services and be installed and used in compliance with the fence controller’s instructions for fire safe operation. Under IFPL I (one) – fire season requirements are in effect. In addition to the following: • A Firewatch is required at this and all higher levels unless otherwise waived. For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Fire Season regulations, please call or visit the Southwest Oregon District unit office nearest to you: Medford Unit, 5286 Table Rock Rd., Central Point – (541) 664-3328 Grants Pass Unit, 5375 Monument Dr., Grants Pass – (541) 474-3152 Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire. n

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July 2022 | The Business Review

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