Behind the doors of Paradise Tans, owned and operated by Deseray Brown, lies a far deeper portion of Medford’s history.

Three years ago, Deseray Brown purchased Paradise Tans from her step-mother, with whom she had worked with for 11 years to get the business on the right track. It was only recently that Deseray was presented with a new and interesting business opportunity. Arthur Alfinito, of Art’s Barbershop, has been welcomed with open arms to the tanning salon, creating an interesting beauty duo between haircuts and tans.

Troy and Karen Irving, owners of Papa Murphy’s Take n’ Bake Pizza located at 1120 Biddle Rd., moved to Medford in 1991 from San Diego, CA. Troy was born and raised in San Diego and Karen from Boring, OR. “We wanted a safe community to raise our kids and to be able to afford a home,” Karen said. “Troy worked at Costco when they first opened. When we moved we had a 4 year-old daughter and I was expecting our second child.”

Tucked away inside the Medford Center, amongst the bustle of eateries and some shopping outlets, there can be found the Collaborative Theatre Project (CTP). A cozy little start-up co-founded by Susan Aversa-Orrego, owner of the Yogurt Hut, Obed Medina, an Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) veteran, and local actor Pam Ward. This local gem features a 90-seat theatre, done up in the immersive Black Box style, as well as a competent team to accompany it.

It’s that time of year when The Rogue Valley starts looking outdoors to fill those long summer nights for ways to entertain the entire family. When the schedule doesn’t allow for a long drive out to the lake or a full day on the river, The Schoolhaus Brewhaus in Jacksonville offers hours of great outdoor activities close to home. 

Tesha and Javier Lopez have been operating Southern Oregon Embroidery since 2011, but a trip to the lone star state inspired them to add a new aspect to their business. “Texans are proud of their state, wearing all kinds of Texas themed clothing; so why not bring that pride and style to the Rogue Valley and the beautiful State of Oregon?” Tesha explained.