MEDCOC BR May 2024 FINAL

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 CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY

MAY 2024

BUSINESS REVIEW

THE WINE MONTH ISSUE

CONTENTS

May 2024 VOLUME 25 ISSUE 4

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22

42

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LEADERSHIP MATTERS 4 A Letter from the President CHAMBER UPDATES 6

OREGON UPDATES 32 Oregon’s Economic Competitiveness: A Positive Outlook for 2024 PROVIDING NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES 36 The Medford Chamber Leadership Graduation 40 State of the Tourism Industry: How Travel Medford is Strengthening Economic Impact in the Rogue Valley REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES 42 2024 Jackson County Primary Election

Staff Highlight: Darren Van Lehn PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY 10 Celebrate Wine Month in May and All Year Round: Discover the Wineries of the Rogue Valley 22 True Rogue Valley: Where Imagination is Just the Start 26 An Insiders Guide to Golfing the Rogue

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 2024

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

Meet the Staff

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

Kira Zavala VP of Communications & Programs kira@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8522

Shon Moses Membership Director shon@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8534

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

Shelly Wager Executive Assistant to the President & CEO shelly@medfordchamber.com 541- 608-8526

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

medfordchamber.com

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LEADERSHIP MATTERS A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Embracing New Opportunities: Welcome to the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year! As we bid farewell to the 2023-2024 fiscal year, I want to extend our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and active participation throughout the year. Your dedication has been instrumental in our shared successes and the continued growth of our Chamber community. We are thrilled to welcome the new 2024-2025 fiscal year with renewed energy and optimism. Recently, our Board of Directors and Chamber staff gathered for an in-depth planning session, laying out a strategic roadmap to enhance our services and deliver even greater value to our members. With these changes, we will welcome new Action Teams, embrace more technology, and create more opportunities for our members. More to come in the next fiscal year. As we wrap up the fiscal year, your timely payment of invoices is crucial to our ability to effectively implement these initiatives. We kindly ask that you ensure all outstanding invoices are settled promptly, allowing us to allocate resources efficiently and continue offering top-tier programs and services. In closing, we are excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2024 Excellence in Business Awards! This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the exceptional businesses and individuals who make our community special. We encourage you to nominate those who have demonstrated outstanding achievements and contributions. Click HERE to nominate. Thank you once again for your continued commitment to the Chamber. Together, we can achieve remarkable things in the year ahead.

Warm regards,

Eli Matthews, IOM President & CEO The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County

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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

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July 2024 | The Business Review

CHAMBER UPDATES

Staff Highlight: Darren Van Lehn Director of Sports Development – Travel Medford

strong believer in sports being a vehicle for growth, change, and impact on a community, Darren sees the Sports Commission team as a group that can help accelerate goals and timelines. Their work, combined with the Know Your Role campaign driving change in the culture of sports, positions Medford and the Southern Oregon Sports Commission at the front of the pack. Medford has a unique relationship with sports and community. Over time the value of both private and public interests coming together to enhance the community has produced incredible dividends. World class sport facilities combined with community leaders who thrive in the world of competition create a stage of opportunity for the future. Darren has seen firsthand how these environments push people to achieve and succeed and looks forward to doing this work on a community wide level. Having grown up in Oregon Darren is attracted to the wide-ranging opportunities that are present. A true northwest personality attracted to all four seasons of adventure thriving particularly in the hiking, biking, camping seasons. A decade in the food industry developed a deep passion and love for the industry and finding commonality in a great meal. And a childhood of sport built him into a lifetime athlete who found a passion for the martial arts, having earned two 3rd Degree Black Belts, spending over 17 years studying and teaching in the Valley. Darren is a father to a young son who is preparing to enter the world of youth sports driving a deep interest in developing the sport culture and opportunities in the Rogue Valley. Darren has formal education with a Master in Sports Management and Athletic Administration from Southern New Hampshire University and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Human Communication from Southern Oregon University.

B orn in Santa Barbara, CA, Darren became a resident of the Rogue Valley before the age of four and has called the Valley his home now for over 35 years. After graduating from Southern Oregon University Darren spent 16 years with Rogue Community College, the last eight of which were spent as Athletic Director. The community connections, education and experience combined with a childhood filled with competition and sport have prepared Darren for his role as Director of Sports Development. Having volunteered for the Southern Oregon Sports Commission for two years Darren understands and appreciates the goals, vision, and direction for sports tourism in Medford. A

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The Business Review | July 2024

GREETERS HOST LOCATIONS BOOKING NOW FOR 2024! Welcome 50-65 business professionals to your location on a Thursday at 8am! Showcase your business to community leaders, and get a 5-minute speaking opportunity. Space is limited!

Contact Us shelly@medfordchamber.com More Information www.medfordchamber.com

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PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

Celebrate Wine Month in May and All Year Round: Discover the Wineries of the Rogue Valley

CELEBRATE WINE MONTH IN MAY & ALL YEAR ROUND:

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May is Wine Month, and while it’s a fantastic time to explore the vibrant wineries of the Rogue Valley, these exceptional destinations are open year-round, offering unique wine-tasting experiences in every season. Known for its stunning landscapes and outstanding wines, the Rogue Valley is a wine lover’s paradise. Let’s take a tour of some of the standout wineries and tasting rooms that you can visit not just in May but throughout the entire year.

The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County is a membership-based organization. Wineries highlighted are chamber members.

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BELLE FIORE WINERY Located in Ashland, Belle Fiore Winery offers a luxurious wine-tasting experience with breathtaking views of the vineyard and surrounding landscape. Known for its elegant architecture and beautiful grounds, Belle Fiore provides a perfect setting to enjoy a variety of wines, including their renowned red blends and crisp whites. Open year-round, Belle Fiore offers seasonal events and wine pairings to enhance your visit.

DANCIN VINEYARDS DANCIN Vineyards , known for their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, provides a scenic setting for wine tasting and dining. Situated in the picturesque hills of Jacksonville, this winery combines outstanding wines with delicious food pairings, making it a must- visit destination for wine enthusiasts all year long.

BAYER FAMILY ESTATE This family-owned estate produces a range of wines and offers tastings in a picturesque setting, focusing on sustainable farming practices and high-quality wines. Bayer Family Estate is a serene and educational experience that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

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2HAWK VINEYARD & WINERY Known for its sustainable practices and premium wines, 2Hawk Vineyard & Winery offers a beautiful tasting room and vineyard tours. Their award-winning wines and commitment to quality make it a favorite among wine lovers. Open year-round, 2Hawk provides a perfect escape for wine tasting in any season. KRISELLE CELLARS Situated in White City, Kriselle Cellars features a modern tasting room with stunning views and a variety of wines to sample. Known for their bold reds and sophisticated whites, Kriselle Cellars offers a delightful experience that showcases the best of Rogue Valley winemaking. Their welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot to visit any time of the year.

ROXYANN WINERY Located in Medford, RoxyAnn Winery has a historic tasting room and offers a variety of wines from their vineyard. Established on the historic Hillcrest Orchard, RoxyAnn Winery is known for its rich history and commitment to sustainable farming practices. Visitors can enjoy their wines and the beautiful surroundings throughout the year.

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HUMMINGBIRD ESTATE Located in Central Point, Hummingbird Estate offers a variety of wines and a picturesque tasting room with stunning views of the vineyard and surrounding landscape. Open year-round, Hummingbird Estate provides a tranquil spot to enjoy exceptional wines.

ANCHOR VALLEY WINE Anchor Valley Wine provides a unique tasting experience with a variety of wines made from locally sourced grapes. Their focus on small-batch production ensures that each wine is crafted with care and precision. The tasting room is open year- round, welcoming visitors to enjoy their distinctive wines.

CLIFF CREEK CELLARS Known for their bold red wines, Cliff Creek Cellars offers a welcoming tasting room experience and prides itself on producing high-quality, estate-grown wines. Open year-round, Cliff Creek is dedicated to providing an exceptional wine-tasting experience in every season.

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The Business Review | July 2024

IRVINE & ROBERTS VINEYARDS This winery offers a variety of wines with a focus on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, providing a beautiful setting for tastings and events. Irvine & Roberts Vineyards is dedicated to producing wines that reflect the unique character of the Rogue Valley. Their tasting room is open year-round, offering a delightful experience for visitors.

RYAN ROSE WINE A boutique winery that produces a range of handcrafted wines, emphasizing quality and unique flavors. Ryan Rose Wine offers an intimate tasting experience that is perfect for wine aficionados throughout the year.

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July 2024 | The Business Review

RELLIK WINERY Located in Central Point, Rellik Winery offers a range of wines in a beautiful setting, perfect for wine tasting and events. Their charming tasting room and picturesque vineyard make it a delightful place to visit any time of the year.

AWEN WINECRAFT This winery produces small-batch, handcrafted wines with a focus on quality and unique flavors. Awen Winecraft offers a welcoming tasting room experience for wine enthusiasts year-round. THE URBAN CORK Situated in downtown Medford, The Urban Cork features wines from multiple local wineries, providing a diverse tasting experience right in the heart of the city. Open year-round, The Urban Cork is an ideal spot to sample a variety of Rogue Valley wines in one location.

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The Business Review | July 2024

BEAR CREEK WINE TRAIL The Bear Creek Wine Trail includes several wineries and tasting rooms in the Rogue Valley, providing a comprehensive wine-tasting experience. Some members of the Bear Creek Wine Trail include 2Hawk Vineyard & Winery, Irvine & Roberts Vineyards, and Pebblestone Cellars, among others. The trail is open year-round, allowing visitors to explore the region’s diverse wineries in any season.

WINE TOURS WITH WINE HOPPER TOURS

Wine Hopper Tours offers an excellent way to explore the wineries in the Rogue Valley. They provide guided tours that include transportation to multiple wineries, allowing visitors to enjoy wine tastings without worrying about driving. Their tours typically include comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, visits to multiple wineries, and scenic views of the Rogue Valley. These tours offer a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the region’s wineries year-round.

The Summer is a fantastic time to celebrate Wine by exploring the rich and diverse wineries of the Rogue Valley, these exceptional destinations are open year-round, offering unique wine-tasting experiences in every season. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these wineries offer an array of exceptional wines and beautiful settings that showcase the best of Southern Oregon’s winemaking. Cheers to a year of discovery and delight in the Rogue Valley!

For more details and to plan your visits, check out our membership directory and book a tour with Wine Hopper Tours.

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July 2024 | The Business Review

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The Business Review | July 2024

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July 2024 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

True Rogue Valley Where Imagination is Just the Start.

Where Imagination is Just the Start TRUE ROGUE VALLEY

Article By Oregon Wine

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About the Rogue Valley The Rogue Valley is a sun-drenched, fertile playground for outdoor adventures, fine dining, world-renowned theater and music, and more. Comprised of three distinct valleys with progressively warmer micro-climates, the region successfully grows both cool- and warm-climate varieties so you can enjoy Rogue Valley wine with everything. Diverse. Unlimited. Inviting. The Rogue Valley invites you to enjoy the region’s wine with everything – from theater, art, and music to world class rafting, fishing, hiking, biking, and skiing. Looking for a more low-key getaway? That’s an option too, with walking paths and trails that end in wide-open spaces and awe- inspiring mountaintop views. With more than 70 grape varieties planted and as many producers to choose from, there’s a wine for every taste and experience in Oregon’s Rogue Valley Wine Country. About 75 miles from the Oregon coast and 50 miles from Crater Lake, Oregon’s only national park, the Rogue Valley is defined by the wild and scenic Rogue River and its tributaries: the Applegate, Bear Creek, and Illinois Rivers, and the confluence of the Cascade, Siskiyou, and Coastal mountain ranges. These moderating influences result in drastic diurnal shifts, with nighttime lows dropping up to 70°F, preserving the grape’s acid balance and slowing the ripening season for greater flavor development. What results in world-class wines of distinct quality, depth and balance. Rogue Valley is also home to Oregon’s first official winery founded by Peter Britt in 1873. Britt was an early gold rush settler to the region who began growing grapes as early 1852, before opening the doors to his Valley View Winery. While the exact location of the original winery is unknown, it is believed to have been in Jacksonville, home to the Northwest’s first summer outdoor music festival – Britt Music & Arts Festival – which honors its wine pioneer namesake and attracts world renowned musicians each June to September.

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PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

An Insiders Guide to Golfing the Rogue AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO GOLFING THE ROGUE

Medford, OR | April 11, 2022 | Travel Medford

From lush fairways to manicured greens, the Heart of the Rogue invites you to experience ten conveniently located golf courses. Golfers of all skill levels are welcome to experience challenging and relaxing courses alike, some designed by PGA tour winners and professionals. Grab those clubs, hop in your cart and have a tee-rific time in the naturally bountiful rogue!

CENTENNIAL GOLF CLUB Classic Elegance, Endless Views

Looking for an un-fore-gettable experience? Named one of the Top 50 Golf Courses in the United States by Golf World, Centennial Golf Club sets the standard for excellence. Centennial boasts an impressive 7,309 yard layout which plays to a par of 72. Designed by two-time PGA Tour winner John Fought, it’s located on the former site of a historic pear orchard. Centennial Golf Club also hosts the famous Southern Oregon Classic , a nonprofit event that benefits local charities. Kick off summer with a double shotgun golf tournament, and celebrations afterwards of music and cuisine at the event’s Classic Feast. Plan your trip now!

QUAIL POINT A Beautiful, Inviting Course

Medford’s Quail Point Golf Course is one of the best golf courses in Southern Oregon, with well-manicured grounds and amazing scenery making it feel like a private course. The layout boasts 75 acres of lush fairways and beautiful greens, perfect for beginners and veteran players alike. Quail Point also offers a variety of leagues, tournaments, events and clubs for you to enjoy during your visit. Looking for a way to get the kiddos interested in golf? At Quail Point, kids play free! Enjoy affordable family-funas you golf and play in the beautiful Heart of the Rogue.

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STEWART MEADOWS Golfing in the Heart of Medford

Conveniently nestled into the center of Medford, Stewart Meadows Golf Course is just minutes from shopping, restaurants and the historic downtown district. You’ll love the rolling meadows, large ponds and stunning water features which distinguish Stewart Meadows among Southern Oregon’s golf courses. Enjoy the walkable, nine-hole course, their lovely Tee Time Café and the lush scenery of the mountains as you golf in the Heart of the Rogue.

STONE RIDGE GOLF CLUB Spectacular Scenery

Awarded “Best Value Golf Course” by Golf Digest, Stone Ridge Golf Club lies in the pastoral foothills of the Rogue Valley. Breathtaking views of the mountain ranges and forests await at every turn as golfers traverse this 18-hole, championship golf course. Stone Ridge Golf Club also offers a practice facility with large, natural grass tees and spectacular putting greens. For the learner, golf lessons are available from PGA professional staff to help you perfect your golf game, one swing at a time. After your tee time, enjoy a variety of sandwiches, snacks and beverages in the “Top of the Ridge” Café.

EAGLE POINT GOLF A World-Class Experience

Located 10 miles east of Medford, Eagle Point Golf Course is a top-tier golf club designed by expert Robert Trent Jones Jr. Surrounded by picturesque scenery, the course features natural terrain and six sets of tees, with distances that range from 5,091 to 7,099 yards. The state-of-the-art facility also features grass teeing areas that simulate fairway conditions, perfect for practicing and perfecting your form. For short game practice, chipping areas, a practice bunker, and 15,000 square foot practice putting green all provide a great training ground to improve your game. From the rookie to the seasoned-pro, Eagle Point golf course is the perfect place to practice your game.

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OAK KNOLL A Great Game of Golf Since 1928, golfers of all skill levels have enjoyed the challenging layout and beautiful setting of Oak Knoll Golf Course . Owned and operated by the Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission, Oak Knoll is Southern Oregon’s only municipal golf course. Challenge your skills on the rolling hills and roughs of this par 36, 9-hole golf course. Open year-round, Oak Knoll also features a large, covered driving range, practice areas and clubhouse for your enjoyment. Test your expertise or expand your skills on this beautifully rewarding course!

LAUREL HILL Golf Along the Forests

With tree-lined doglegs and rolling slopes, this is the perfect golf course to put your learning and practice to the ultimate test. Laurel Hill has been compared to a regulation course with the drives removed. The four par- 4s are in the 275-300 yard range, and require two good iron shots to reach the green. Steep ravines, small greens and tricky hills demand accurate layups and particular skill. If you are ready to face the thrill of a challenge, Laurel Hill is the perfect place to develop your skills as you dare to face the beautifully challenging fairways.

BEAR CREEK No-Pressure Atmosphere This beautifully designed course is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its central location and beautiful greens. Bear Creek is the perfect course for beginner and veteran golfers alike, with well-maintained grounds and easy fairways. If your short game needs some tuning, this is the place for you. Bear Creek offers a relaxing atmosphere, a full-line pro shop, covered driving range, two practice greens, and a snack bar. With mostly short par-3’s, players of all skill levels are invited to enjoy and experience the smooth courses the Heart of the Rogue has to offer.

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Rogue Valley Country Club Rooted in Tradition

Enjoy year-round playability on 27 of the most exceptional holes of golf in Southern Oregon. Grand oak trees and the Siskiyou Mountain Range create breathtaking scenery lined along each hole. Enjoy either the 18-hole Rogue Course, with four tee box options, or the 9-hole Oaks Course, with five tee box options. You can even play both courses together for an entire day of adventure! Each August, the Rogue Course hosts the Southern Oregon Golf Championship , the largest amateur match- play event in the country played on a single course. Come out and enjoy the richness and beauty of golfing in Medford!

A GOLFER’S PARADISE Whether you prefer covered driving ranges, challenging courses or are looking to dip your toes into the world of golf - the Heart of the Rogue has the perfect course just for you. Enjoy the lush mountainsides as you view, and get lost in the fairgrounds of the beautiful courses. Explore all Medford has to offer you, from outdoor adventures to diverse indoor delights.

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July 2024 | The Business Review

SWING, SIP, & RELAX WIN A SOUTHERN OREGON GOLF & WINE ESCAPE

PACKAGE INCLUDES $100 Golf vouchers to 7 area courses 2 Night Stay at a Medford Hotel Wine tasting & dining package

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July 2024 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

Oregon’s Economic Competitiveness: A Positive Outlook for 2024 Oregon Business & Industry’s 2024 Oregon Competitiveness Book highlights several positive

Oregon’s Economic Competitiveness: A Positive Outlook for 2024

aspects of the state’s economy and potential growth areas. Here are some key highlights:

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STRONG TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION SECTORS: Oregon’s tech industry is a major economic driver, contributing significantly to growth and innovation.

HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE: The state attracts and retains a skilled workforce due to its desirable living conditions, making it a competitive place for businesses and professionals alike.

LOW ENERGY COSTS: Both businesses and residents benefit from some of the lowest energy costs in the nation, providing a cost advantage.

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ROBUST EXPORT MARKET:

SKILLED WORKFORCE: The state’s highly skilled workforce is a key asset, enhancing its competitive edge in various industries.

CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES:

Oregon’s export market continues to support economic growth, with strong performance in various sectors.

While high taxes and regulatory burdens present challenges, they also highlight areas for potential improvement to further enhance economic competitiveness.

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“The state’s commitment to innovation, access to a skilled workforce, and strong community support systems provide a fer- tile ground for small businesses to thrive.”

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SMALL BUSINESS POTENTIAL:

WAGE & INCOME INFORMATION:

POPULATION & WORKFORCE: Oregon’s population growth

Oregon’s supportive environment for small businesses presents numerous opportunities for growth. The state’s commitment to innovation, access to a skilled workforce, and strong community support systems provide a fertile ground for small businesses to thrive. Efforts to streamline regulatory processes and reduce tax burdens could further unleash the potential of small enterprises, contributing significantly to the state’s economic dynamism.

Oregon boasts competitive wages and income levels, which contribute to the overall quality of life. The state’s median household income is robust, providing a strong foundation for economic stability and growth. Additionally, efforts to improve wage equity and support higher-paying industries are ongoing, aiming to further boost the economic well- being of residents.

continues to be a positive factor in its economic competitiveness. The state’s diverse and growing population enhances its labor market, providing a steady supply of talent for various industries. This population growth, combined with a strong emphasis on education and workforce development, ensures that Oregon remains a competitive place for businesses to find the skilled employees they need.

Oregon is well-positioned to build on these strengths, encouraging policymakers and business leaders to capitalize on existing opportunities and address challenges to maintain and enhance the state’s economic competitiveness.

For more detailed information, visit the Oregon Business & Industry website.

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Working Together in the Rogue Valley for a Stronger Community

34 The Business Review | July 2024 541.622.8577 • 40 S Central • Medford, Oregon 97501 • cowcreek.com

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July 2024 | The Business Review

PROVIDING NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES

The Medford Chamber Leadership Graduation O n May 14th 2024, thirty outstanding individuals formally graduated from the Chamber of Medford and Jackson County’s Leadership Class (2023-

Rogue Valley International Airport, Carestream Health, Rogue Disposal & Recycling, Emerald Charters, KOBI-TV NBC5, Medford Fire Station #4, Soul Canyon Training and Development, Damien Rennie, Patrick Doyle, Brian Sjothun and Rogue Valley Zipline Adventures. Additionally, we are also appreciative of the many corporate, public, and private donations we received which enabled us to give back to these organizations that have helped various groups in southern Oregon and have been pillars in the community. We are thankful for the various support of cash and kind to successfully complete the three impact projects. As a reminder the class projects were 1) Building an accessible garden bed for the residents at Living Opportunities, 2) Building a produce stand for the Salvation Army, and the purchase and installations of scoreboards for Medford American Little League. As he welcomed the group the first day, it was also fitting that Chamber President and CEO Eli Matthews gave the charge to the graduates on the final day to develop a “growth mindset” while Mayor Randy Sparacino applauded the class for their commitment and charged us to “just do the right thing”. Each graduate received two certificates of completion – a graduation certificate from the Chamber signed by President Matthews and Leadership Director Lydia Salvey and a congratulatory certificate from the US House of Representatives which was signed by Member of Congress Cliff Bentz. n

2024), held at the Laurel Hills Golf Course in Central Point. Achieving this honor was no easy feat as the requirement to graduate was no walk in the park as the proverbial saying goes. Participants committed to attend six out of eight classes, gaining valuable insight into the work of the Chamber, learning more about our community, our region and got a behind the scenes look at some of the businesses in the Rogue Valley. Graduation was not based solely however on class attendance and participation. Each person had to also attend one Medford City Council Meeting, one Jackson County Commissioner Meeting, and also one School Board Meeting. The additional requirements were to join a committee for the selected class projects and to participate as best as possible in the fulfillment of the selected three class projects. As we reflect on our journey, we publicly thank and express appreciation to those who hosted our class: The Chamber of Medford and Jackson County, Travel Medford, The City of Medford (especially for the tour of the Lithia & Driveway Fields), Team Synergo, OSU Extension Center in Central Point, Adroit Construction, DANCIN Vineyards, Anchor Valley Winery, Medford Police Department (MPD) and the MPD S.W.A.T team, Britt Music and Arts Festival,

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The Business Review | July 2024

The Chamber's Leadership program creates in its class participants a comprehensive and objective awareness of our community in action. The program fosters commitment to our region and develops leaders to meet the demands of the future. Since its inception in 1983, more than 1000 people have graduated from this distinguished and popular program, many of whom are now prominent and influential leaders in the Rogue Valley. Most of the opportunities available to this group are exclusive to the Leadership Program and not open to the general public. This provides the participants with unique, rare and interesting experiences. Join a Legacy of Leaders

where one day each month, you will... Network with and develop long-term business relationships with others in the class. Examine the major business sectors that contribute to the vibrancy and growth of Southern Oregon. Participate in finding creative and insightful solutions to community needs. Enhance the skills needed to become a decision- maker and leader in your community. Discover how you and your organization can make a positive impact within your business interactions.

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Registration Deadline: September 2, 2024 Scholarship Deadline: August 30, 2024

www.medfordchamber.com

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July 2024 | The Business Review

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everything in one place learn. shop. explore.

New to the world of sustainable driving? GreenCars is the place to start. Learn about the tech, the lingo, and how a sustainable vehicle can t into your lifestyle.

Lithia & Driveway and GreenCars support and thank the Medford Chamber of Commerce.

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July 2024 | The Business Review

PROVIDING NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES

State of the Tourism Industry: How Travel Medford is Strengthening Economic Impact in the Rogue Valley Sponsored By: Travel Medford F or nearly 50 years, Travel Medford has inspired travelers and welcomed visitors to discover the beauty, adventure and unique experiences Medford

and the Rogue Valley have to offer. As a division within The Chamber, Travel Medford is the largest Destination Management Organization (DMO) in Southern Oregon and elevates the region and its partners by promoting Medford and the Rogue Valley as a premier destination on the West Coast. Travel Medford uses key vehicles of destination marketing, event promotion and sports tourism to bring visitors to the Rogue Valley, which helped generate 5,700 jobs and $728 million in direct travel spending in Jackson County last year. Travel Medford will share updates on tourism development, promotional and engagement programs that drive customers to local businesses and offer a glimpse into trends that will lead to continuous growth of one of the Rogue Valley’s key industries. n

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REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

2024 Jackson County Primary Election I n the recent Oregon Primary Election held on May 21, 2024, several key races and measures were decided in Jackson County.

1. Local Measures: Jackson County voters decided on multiple local measures, with two significant ones related to making county commissioner positions nonpartisan, both of which were rejected by the electorate. 2. State Legislature: Several state legislative positions were on the ballot. Incumbent representatives largely retained their seats, many running uncontested in their respective primaries. Notably, contested races saw figures like Darin Harbick securing a significant victory over Charlie Conrad for the Republican nomination with 82.7% of the vote.

3. Voter Turnout: Statewide voter turnout for the primary election was approximately 35%, with Jackson County contributing to this figure through robust participation in local and state- level races. 4. Uncontested Races: Numerous candidates ran unopposed, reflecting strong incumbent positions and possibly strategic decisions by opposing parties. For a comprehensive overview of the election results, you can visit the Oregon Secretary of State’s website or check local coverage on sites like OregonLive and OPB​(Oregon Secretary of State)​. n

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The Business Review | July 2024

The Holly Theatre in Medford is nearly finished and it’s going to be beautiful — just like when it opened back in 1930. We just received a $50,000 matching challenge from a generous anonymous donor and we need your help to meet the challenge. To open the Holly by January 2025, we need to raise the final $660,000 in order to furnish the theater with seats, theatrical lighting, sound and projection equipment, rigging, concession equipment and soft goods, including the grand drape for the stage. Any donation will be matched 1:1 until the matching challenge is met. Would you be able to help us reach our goal? Please see hollytheatre.org to make your contribution. Any amount will do and donations of $500 or more can be paid over a 3-year period. If you don’t see an option that’s right for you, or if you have questions, contact us at info@jeffersonlive.org or call (541)772-3797 x512 for details and answers. Help the Holly Theatre open by January 2025

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July 2024 | The Business Review

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44

The Business Review | July 2024

Tom Skinner SVP, Commercial Team Lead | Dawn Hartley VP, Relationship Banking Officer

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’s relationship-driven bankers specialize in cash management, commercial lending, 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 2024 | The Business Review

medfordchamber.com

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