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EXPLORE THE COMMUNITY

Southern Oregon is an exceptional place to work and play with amazing scenery, friendly communities and an abundance of recreational and cultural opportunities. The diversity of outdoor activities as well as culture and entertainment draw those who wish to enjoy natural beauty without sacrificing amenities of more metropolitan areas. Golf at a top-rated coursefloat a wild and scenic river, dine on gourmet cuisine paired with award-winning local wines, and experience world-class theater—all just outside your back door.


the climate
The picturesque Rogue River Valley, dotted with quaint towns and small cities, nestles between the Cascade and Siskiyou Mountains. The four-season climate offers a perfect mix. In summer, enjoy warm, sunny days and cool, clear nights. Winters are mild, with the mountains providing a “rain shadow” that spares the valley much of the famous Pacific Northwest moisture. In fact, annual precipitation for Medford averages 18 inches, typically falling as winter and spring rain with a few dustings of snow in town.


southern oregon’s communities
The communities of southern Oregon are friendly and diverse, each with a distinct personality. Medford is the population and commerce center; Ashland has a contemporary, college-town atmosphere; Jacksonville cherishes its place in gold-mining history; and Grants Pass enjoys Rogue River frontage and the beginning of the Redwood Highway to the coast.

Urban parks and trails abound. The Bear Creek Greenway provides 21 miles of paved pathway within 600 acres of land set aside for public use from Ashland to Central Point. Lithia Park, just across from our plaza office location, is a showpiece in Ashland, famed for its lithium mineral water fountains. An early part of the Chautauqua movement, the park reflects the artistic work of John McLaren, who also designed San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.


arts & culture
Southern Oregonians fill their calendars with events at their favorite theaters, galleries, museums, vineyards, and wineries as well as annual music, film, and food festivals. The Oregon Shakespeare FestivalBritt Festivals, and the Craterian Ginger Rogers Theater offer world-class culture and entertainment. The local symphony, opera, ballet, and children’s groups perform in a variety of venues.

education
From preschools to colleges, Southern Oregon offers opportunities for lifelong learning. More than 30,000 students attend elementary, middle, and high schools in public and private institutions. For the fifth time, Ashland High School recently earned another Silver Medal from US News & World Reports, placing it in the top 6% nationwide. Southern Oregon University in Ashland is a four-year public university with approximately 5,000 students specializing in liberal arts and sciences.

 

Come on out and enjoy the area - ask me for more information on any activities or destinations that interest you!

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