The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County honored businesses and individuals during its annual Excellence in Business Awards, a tradition going back more than a century.
The 103rd annual event was held in October at Rogue Valley Country Club in Medford. “It spoke to the accomplishments of local businesses and people, but also the challenges they have faced and overcome,” the Chamber said in a press release. “Through hard work, perseverance and a love for their community, the ceremony highlighted the best in our community and how their efforts have left a lasting impression on the Rogue Valley.” The Chamber gave its “First Citizen” award to Roy Vinyard, former president and chief executive officer of Asante.
The award recognizes a lifetime of achievements and community service. “His many decades of experience in the health care industry have made an incredible impact not only at Asante, but throughout the Rogue Valley,” the Chamber said.
Vinyard joined Asante as chief executive in 1999 and led the health care system for 20 years until 2019.
In September, he stepped back up to lead Asante while the current CEO takes a temporary medical leave.
Lisa Stadtmiller, event coordinator at Medford-based Youth 71Five Ministries, won the “Rising Star Award” for her leadership skills and commitment to the community, the Chamber said.
Tapping into her degree in hospitality management with a focus on meetings and events, Stadtmiller plans events for youth served by Youth 71Five Ministries.
The faith-based organization offers mentoring, career training and community centers that support kids and families.
The “New Member of the Year Award” went to Elite Maintenance for joining the Chamber and becoming an outstanding, active new member, the Chamber said.
In the for-profit category, 5:00 Marketing won “Outstanding Corporate Citizen” while Kids Unlimited took that honor in the nonprofit category.
Both have projects that boost employee development and enhance the quality of life in the communities they serve, the Chamber said.
The “Business Excellence Award” went to Lithia & Driveway in the large category, Tribal One for medium businesses and Cascade Self Storage for smaller businesses.
All three show outstanding service, leadership and community commitment, the Chamber said.
Dancin Vineyards took home the “Retailer of the Year” award for its record of dependability, success, exceptional customer service, outstanding community service and leadership, the Chamber said.
The “Member of the Year” award went to Rogue Disposal & Recycling for its significant contributions to the development of the Chamber, the Chamber said.
Reach Mail Tribune reporter Vickie Aldous at 541-776-4486 or valdous@rosebudmedia.com.