The Kostrna Family









Grants Pass Growers Market
SATURDAYS | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
4th and F Street
4th and F Street, Grants Pass, OR
Grants Pass HS Band Donation Drive
MAR 16 | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Grants Pass High School
830 NE 9th St, Grants Pass, OR
Keeping Honey Bees Class
MAR 16 & 17 | 1:00 PM
Rogue Community College - Redwood Campus 3345 Redwood Hwy, Grants Pass, OR
Beat the Brewers Tuesday Trivia
MAR 19 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Weekend Beer company
1863 NW Washington Blvd, Grants Pass, OR
Friends of Fairgrounds Bingo
MAR 20 | 4:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Josephine County Fairgrounds
1451 Fairgrounds Rd, Grants Pass, OR
Kaleidoscope Play and Learn (GP)
MAR 27 | 5:00 PM - MAR 28 | 6:30AM
310 SW H St, Grants Pass, OR
Tuck Everlasting (Musical Comedy)
Premier Night
MAR 28 | 12:00 NN -7:00 PM
Grants Pass Performing Arts Center
313 NE Olive St, Grants Pass OR
GP K9 Reading Buddies
MAR 29 | 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Josephine County Library GP Branch
200 NW C st, Grants Pass, OR
Tim Mikels
Publishing Director tim.mikels@thesocialpublication.com
Tyler Mikels Publishing Director tyler.mikels@thesocialpublication.com
Neil Fletcher Production Manager neil@thesocialpublication.com
Andrea Rodgers Content Director Hannah Catindig Assistant Content Director
Brooke Williams Content Writer
Jason
Hello Neighbors,
As we enjoy the month of March, the promise of spring is in the air. The groundhog has spoken, predicting an early arrival of this much-anticipated season, bringing with it the vibrant colors of blooming flowers, the warmth of the sun, and fun times with the ones we love!
With spring break on the horizon, it’s a time for excitement and a chance to embrace the outdoors. Whether planning a getaway or enjoying a staycation, let’s revel in the pleasant weather and the beauty of our amazing valley.
In the spirit of community resilience, let’s remember that March is not only a time of renewal but also an opportunity to get out and appreciate the amazing community we live in. As we face challenges, it becomes crucial to rally together and sustain the heart of our community by choosing to shop locally.
Let this March be a reminder that, just as nature undergoes a transformative journey from winter to spring, our community thrives when we stand united and support one another. Here’s to embracing the changing seasons and fostering the strength within our community.
Shop local, be positive, and stay social!
Sincerely,
THE MIKELS BROTHERS (TIM & TYLER) Publishing DirectorsAccredited Medical Center
Pregnancy Care Center (541) 479-6264
gppregnancy.com
Alternative & Holistic Health Services Centered Physical Therapy + Wellness (541) 237-4136
centeredphysicaltherapy.com
Bee Keeper Noah’s Bees (541) 254-2052 noahsbees.com
Custom Cabinets
KA Design (541) 955-4884
kadesigns.net
Dance Studio
Southern Oregon Dance Center (702) 768-1510
southernoregondancecenter.org
Bike Shop
Don’s Bike Center (541) 471-3494 donsbikecenter.com
Boutique Rainbow Collective (541) 218-8882
rainbowbabyco.com
Dentist
C Street Dental
Devin Nelson | (541) 237-5575 cstreetdental.com
Financial Advisor
Edward Jones
Adrianne Wytcherley | (541) 916-8558
edwardjones.com/adrianne-wytcherley
Gallery & Studio
The Glass Forge (541) 955-0815
glassforge.com
Dentist
Pastrell, Buchanan, & Hartzell Dentistry
Dr. Justin Buchanan (541) 476-4199 gpdentalteam.com
Education
Logos Public Charter School (541) 842-3658
logoscharter.com
Horse Trainer
High Roller Performance Horses (775) 762-6105
Insurance
Siskiyou Insurance (541) 479-6672
siskiyouins.com
Insurance Agent
State Farm
Nicole Whitcomb | (541) 474-2800
nicolewhitcombinsurance.com
Carpet & House Cleaning Dust Plus (541) 660-5143
dustpluscarpetcleaning.com
Community Youth Services Project Youth Plus (541) 476-8146
projectyouthplus.org
Counseling
Southern Oregon Psychological Services (541) 226-4396 sorpsych.com
Custom Aluminum Boats
D-Tech Custom Aluminum Boats (541) 295-5940 dtechboats.com
Event Center & Work Space
The Hivve (541) 659-8738 thehivve.com
Events Coordinator
Epoch Event Coordinating (591) 761-0818
epocheventcoordinating.com
Eye Care
Central Eyes Optometry (541) 237-0030
centraleyesoptometry.com
Fence & Automated Gates
Caveman Fence & Fabrication Inc. (541) 474 -0302
cavemanfence.com
Jeweler
Hart Jewelers (541) 476-5543
hartjewelers.com
Landscape Maintenance
Kruse Control Yard Care
(541) 787-3125
krusecontrolyardcarellc.business.site
Landscapes and Designs
Ground Guys (541) 659-8130
groundguys.com/grants-pass
Mattress & Flooring
Quality Mattress & Flooring (541) 476-6292
qualitymattressor.com
Owned by Dustin Myers
Medical Spa
Aesthetispa Laser & Wellness Center (541) 479-9772
aesthetispagp.com
Mortgage Broker
Diversity Home Lending
Jena Heth | (541) 479-3377 diversityhl.com
Organic Gorcery
Gooseberries (541) 471-2700
Orthodontist
Grants Pass Orthodontics (541) 474-0860
grantspassorthodontics.com
Orthopedic Surgeon
Advanced Orthopedics (541) 622-8902
advancedorthopedics.com
Pest Control
A-One Exterminators (541) 472-1094
aone-exterminators.com
Pest Control
Highland Pest Control (541) 476-6326
Photographer
Kelcie Jean Photography (541) 287-1002
kelciejeanphotography.com
Pizza Restaurant and Arcade Catalyst Pizza Co (541) 287-0712
toasttab.com/catalystpizza314
Pool & Spa
Outback Pool & Spa (541) 479-8112
outbackpoolgp.com
Real Estate
Ford Real Estate
Tyler & JoLena Mikels (541) 450-2977
teammikels.com
Real Estate
Ideal Brokers (541) 761-0013
idealbrokersre.com
Real Estate Remax
Kaila Reinhart (541) 660-4377
kaila-reinhart.remax.com
Restaurant
Climate City Brewing Co. (541) 479-3725
climatecitybrewing.com
Solar Installation
Sunshine Solar (541) 295-8500
sunshinesolarinc.com
Tax Services
H Street Business & Financial (541) 474-2395
hstreetbusiness.com
Tree Service
August Hunicke Arborists Inc. 541) 659-9560
augusthunicke.com
Winery Apricity Vineyard (541) 301-4137
apricityvineyard.com
Restaurant
The Twisted Cork (531) 999-3777
twistedcorkbistro.com
Restaurant
The Vine (541) 479-8463
dineatthevine.com
Restaurant & Bar
Bohemian Bar & Bistro (541) 471-7158
bohemianbarandbistro.com
Senior Living
The Suites-Assisted Living & Memory Care (541) 955-9115
thesuitesassistedliving.com
MARLA QUINTANA
Aesthetispa Laser & Wellness Center
Marla, a long time native of Southern Oregon, has raised four children in Grants Pass with her husband, Max. A nurse for over 38 years, she has practiced aesthetic nursing for the past 15 years.
Marla is the owner of AesthetiSpa Laser and Wellness Center and believes in building an enduring and rewarding relationship with her clients and community, through knowledge and superior service.
Apricity Vineyard
Co-owner Laloni Cook manages the Apricity tasting room and all customer service for the Vineyard. A Pacific Northwest native, she grew up splitting time between Port Angeles, Washington and Grants Pass, Oregon and still calls both home.
C Street Dental
Devin Nelson, his wife Lena, and 5 kids have lived in Grants Pass since 2016. Before becoming a dentist, Devin had a unique job in Arizona as a mascot for the Phoenix Suns. He received his undergraduate at BYU and his doctorate in dental medicine (DMD) from the Arizona School of Dental and Oral Health (ASDOH). His dental practice treats all areas of dentistry including cosmetic & aesthetics, oral surgery, crown & bridge restoration, preventive, and emergency dentistry.
Centered Physical Therapy + Wellness
In 2018 Deanna started Centered Physical Therapy & Wellness, where physical therapy is integrated in a holistic manner to help heal the body at the root of its problem. Specializing in women’s health, she has dedicated her time to helping mothers restore balance prenatally, during pregnancy and postpartum. Although her passion resides in pre-conception, where “all the magic” happens.
Diversity Home Lending
Born and raised in the Southern Oregon area, Christine Lowe absolutely loves enjoying the outdoor beauty we have here. With 25 years in the mortgage industry, ensuring that you make the right choice for you and your family is her goal and she is committed to providing her customers with mortgage services that exceed their expectations.
Diversity Home Lending
Jena Heth and her family have been Grants Pass residents for the past 19 years. Her husband is quite the fisherman, so this is a perfect place to live. She has been in lending for 30 years and has seen so much change in the industry. What she loves most about her profession is her clients, some of whom have become dear friends. It’s a profession based on knowledge and trust and her clients know she is always there for them.
Grants Pass Orthodontics
Born and raised in Grants Pass, Dr. Brent D. Erickson has been practicing in the Grants Pass area since 2015. His goal as an orthodontist is to create long-lasting smiles in a comfortable environment and to give confidence with joy. When not at the office, he enjoys adventuring with his wife, Ashley, their four kids and dog, Timber, doing all things outdoors, playing soccer and golf, going snowboarding, and playing video games.
SHERYL ZIMMERER
Logos Public Charter School
Since 2017, Sheryl Zimmerer has served as the Executive Director for Logos Public Charter School, the largest, non-virtual charter school in the state of Oregon. Under her leadership, the K-12 school that serves Jackson and Josephine County students has reported its highest graduation rate ever (95%) and has been voted one of the best non-profits to work for in Oregon 5 years in a row. Since her daughters have grown up, she now lives in Talent with her husband in the house they rebuilt after the 2020 Oregon Almeda wildfire with their two spoiled golden retrievers.
Outback Pool & Spa
Jason was born and raised in Grants Pass. He graduated from University of Oregon with a Bachelor of Arts in English. He has worked for Outback Pool & Spa since high school and purchased the company in July of 2022. His family loves the southern Oregon community and enjoys serving the community through wellness and water care.
TREVER YARRISH
The Hivve
Trever’s drive and passion for creating amazing experiences for other people has led him on some incredible adventures: from performing for people on stage to starring in a film; from serving coffee as a barista to becoming the marketing director of Dutch Bros. Coffee; from marketing director to co-founder of the marketing company Define Your Edge; from being a childhood programmer with a passion for design to co-founding Zeal. On any given day you may find Trever designing an app, teaching a design process, helping someone troubleshoot CSS, building a Kinex roller coaster with his two sons, or sneaking off with his wife for a date night.
The Vine, Climate City Brewing Co., The Twisted Cork
With a rich tapestry of 25 years in the restaurant realm, Dustin Myers seamlessly weaves together culinary finesse and leadership prowess. A guardian of quality, he meticulously crafts each dish, fostering a culture of excellence. Beyond the kitchen, he cultivates inviting spaces and forges community bonds, embodying the essence of a seasoned professional dedicated to exceptional products, harmonious workplaces and vibrant communities.
Stephen and Ariel Kostrna bought their first home in Grants Pass five years ago, when Ariel was pregnant with their first child. They moved in four months before he was born and have been happily expanding their family ever since.
Ariel and Stephen have a true fairytale story. In 2012, the local One Eleven Theater Company cast Ariel as Cinderella and Stephen as the Prince! During callbacks for the role, the director had them act out a garden scene together which almost ended in a kiss. After that scene, they introduced themselves to one another and their real story took off from there.
Neither of the pair was born in Oregon, but they both moved to the state at a young age and grew up here. Now, Stephen is a proud 6th grade science teacher at Fleming Middle School and Ariel is a full-time mom, a belly dance instructor, and a real estate video editor.
This couple has unique hobbies and interests, too. While they both like to volunteer time in community theater, Ariel likes to read, do Tai Chi, and study theology. Stephen, on the other hand, weaves chainmail armor and cycles. Ariel was homeschooled through high school graduation (her mom/teacher used to work for NASA!) and Stephen had similar experiences until 6th grade when he began school at New Hope Christian where his mother still teaches today.
Now, the Kostrna family has three kids: Alan (age 5), Georgiana (age 3), and Baby Milo. Alan has a wild spirit but has an engineer’s mind. He loves to build
and design, as well as play-fight by throwing pillows around like crazy. Math and numbers are his jam and he appreciates orderly structures when he builds with blocks.
Georgiana is sweet and perceptive. She seems to have been born with good manners as she uses a napkin at every meal and delicately wipes up any messes she makes from her face and hands. Her empathy stands out and she’s always giving Mommy kisses when she’s sad. She adores the moon, and calls anything small “babies.”
Milo was born with a rare lung development disorder and passed away after just six hours with his family. He will always be a part of the family. Older brother Alan tells anyone who asks that he has a brother who lives in Heaven. Every year, the family chooses a child from an Angel Tree at the age Milo would be now. They buy a gift for that child and honor his memory in that sweet way.
All of the kids love books, even if they’re just flipping through them to look at the art. They also enjoy being outside, drawing, and painting. The family is into singing and dancing as well. Ariel says, “We are more of an artistic and musical family than we are an athletic family.” Since Stephen has a collection of different recorders, he dreams of having a family quartet when the kids are older!
Speaking of musical talent, Ariel spent the last 5 years of her free time writing and composing a musical called “My Traitor.” This Soviet-era drama played eight shows in Grants Pass in October 2023 and closed with a sold-out performance!
When they aren’t busy with school and everyday life
Meet Your Neighbor
activities, the family likes to go on walks, visit grandparents, enjoy the Children’s Museum, explore the Oregon Coast, and even camp.
Great Northwest Music is one of their favorite local businesses and they appreciate the Rogue Birth Center for their memories from each child’s birth. All of their kid’s first and middle names come from their family. While the Kostrnas don’t know exactly where their last name originated, Stephen and his siblings believe it’s Slavic and may mean “Bone Scraper.”
The Kostrna’s three-bedroom home has served the family well. The property slopes, which brings challenges, but Stephen appreciates the spacious crawl space under the home. “It’s almost like a potato cellar!” Stephen says. Their main goal is to leave the house a better property than when they bought it. They opened the living room by removing a gas stove and built a fence around the yard, which
is great for their young kids. They also replaced some awkward French doors with sliding doors. Next, they want to replace the interior doors with solid wood options. They also have a fun tradition to celebrate the winter solstice. Everyone wakes up at sunrise, drinks hot chocolate, and enjoys a hearty breakfast. They spend
the afternoon creating a comfortable pillow fort in the living room. When night hits, the family sleeps in and on the fort, but before that, everyone gets to (dramatically) read a book of their choice. Considering they met as the Prince and Cinderella, their life in Grants Pass is most certainly their happily ever after!
“Everyone
In a world where we often search for connections and memories to keep us grounded, there’s a story that shines through, illuminating the beauty of bonds between humans and animals.
It’s the story of Tiki, a Medicine Hat Paint horse, and her journey with the Mills family. Hannah and Mike Mills, along with their children Hunter, Scarlett, and Clover, share a special relationship with Tiki, a relationship that intertwines love, loss, and the joy of creating lasting memories.
Tiki wasn’t always known by this name. Her official name was Mystique, but the Mills family opted for something shorter and more personal when she joined the family. Tiki, now 19 years old, has become an integral part of their lives. She’s not just a horse; she’s a member of the family, a bridge to cherished memories and new adventures.
The bond between Tiki and the Mills family is beautifully symbiotic. For Tiki, happiness comes in the form of simple pleasures like carrots, apples, and the sound of grain rattling in a bowl, a
sound that can make her gallop across the pasture with anticipation. Her favorite pastime, though, is the freedom to graze peacefully in the open fields. For the Mills, Tiki is more than just a pet; she’s a patient teacher for the kids and a symbol of resilience and trust.
Watching her children ride and care for Tiki is Hannah’s favorite activity. She sees in them the same joy and wonder she experienced as a child. Tiki, with her calm and trustworthy nature, is the perfect companion for these young equestrians, teaching them the values of patience and
Petable Petempathy. This interaction is a testament to the timeless bond between humans and horses.
One of the most endearing qualities of Tiki is her ability to create unforgettable moments. A hilarious memory that still brings laughter to the family is a video of Tiki, out in the pasture, playfully kicking her legs and unexpectedly tooting loudly, a candid moment that was perfectly captured on camera.
But the essence of Tiki’s impact lies in the deeper connection she fosters. For Hannah, Tiki is a living link to her father, a way to keep his spirit alive and share his legacy with her children. As her father shared an experience with horses when she was a youngster, Hannah is creating similar connections with her kids. Through Tiki, the memories of Hannah’s father are not only preserved but are also evolving into new stories and experiences.
In the end, Tiki’s story is a beautiful reminder of the unique and profound ways pets enrich our lives. They’re not just animals; they’re keepers of our memories, teachers of life’s simple joys, and a comforting presence in times of change. Tiki, with her gentle eyes and nurturing heart, is more than just a horse; she’s a cherished member of the Mills family, a symbol of love that transcends generations.
Aportrait of childhood joy and ambition is five-year-old Ellie Gragg, a bundle of energy and enthusiasm. A kindergarten student at Grace Preschool, Ellie loves art, outdoor adventures, and family bonding.
Born into a family that values togetherness and outdoor activities, Ellie has grown up embracing an active lifestyle. She has a 7-year-old sister, Tinley, with whom she shares an incredible bond. They explore various activities such as board games, crafts, and bike rides together. She cherishes her family, including her pets—a French Bulldog named Rocky, who has been with them for five years, ten chickens, and two cats they call “kitty kitty.” Blue is Ellie’s favorite color, her choice of food is Pillsbury crescent rolls, she enjoys dining at Hawaiian Hut, and admires the majestic beauty of tigers. Ellie also loves listening to pop music, especially Alicia Keys’ “Girl on Fire.” Her entertainment choices include the TV show ‘Masha and the Bear’ and ‘The Grinch’ animated movie.
But it’s not just indoor activities that capture Ellie’s heart. She is an avid dirt bike rider, racing on her Husqvarna EE 5 and PW 50. Despite her young age, Ellie has been racing for two years and loves the thrill and competitive nature of the sport. Her biggest challenge? Keeping up with her big sister, Tinley. For Ellie, racing is more than a sport; it’s a lesson in self-reliance and determination. Away from the racetrack, Ellie’s favorite place to play is the Moto541 motocross track outside Medford. She supports the Hidden Valley girls’ soccer team, where her cousin Lex Chandler plays.
When it comes to future ambitions, Ellie dreams of becoming a mom and hairstylist, just like her mom. Her favorite vacation spot is Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where she has fond memories of ziplining with her family. If she could have a superhero power, it would be ice powers to freeze bad guys! Despite her adventurous nature, Ellie values the importance of family and school. Her bond with her sister Tinley is heartwarming, and they enjoy doing everything together. Her teacher, Mrs. Dennis, has been instrumental in making Ellie comfortable at school. Ellie’s
Kool Kidparents emphasize the significance of family and staying active.
Ellie and Tinley share the same values, participating in numerous outdoor activities and ensuring a close-knit family environment. What makes Ellie truly unique is that she’s embodying the joys of childhood while showing the promise of a bright future. Her love for adventure, family, friends, and school makes her a remarkable kid! There will be plenty more great things to come from this passionate, determined, and family-oriented young girl. Follow her on Instagram: @etracing42.
In the vibrant world of youth sports, it’s not just about the game; it’s about the journey, the learning, and the sheer joy of being part of something bigger.
This is the world of Lilly Dickerson, a young athlete whose dedication and passion for soccer exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship and teamwork. At just 10 years old, Lilly has already made significant strides in her sporting career, playing as both a goalie and midfielder for The Golden Bears’ OFA U10/11 Girls team.
Lilly’s journey began four years ago, and since then, soccer has become an integral part of her life. She attends Fort Vannoy, where she balances her academic responsibilities with her commitment to the sport. Lilly’s dedication is evident in her rigorous practice schedule at OFA, where she has honed her skills and learned the finer nuances of the game under the guidance of her coaches, Melody, Amy, and her mother, Erin.
What truly sets Lilly apart is her unwavering passion for soccer. This passion is fueled by her admiration for Hope Solo, the renowned Team USA goalie. While Lilly has yet to meet any famous personalities in soccer, she has traveled for tournaments, including
trips to Portland and Medford. These experiences have not only broadened her horizons but also provided her with invaluable exposure to competitive play.
Lilly’s participation in three tournaments and a Goalie Wars event is a testament to her commitment and
skill. Her achievements include being named Team Captain multiple times and receiving the MVP award for one season. These honors reflect not just her talent but also her leadership qualities and her ability to inspire her teammates.
The lessons Lilly has learned from soccer extend beyond the field. She emphasizes the importance of being tough, both physically and mentally, a lesson that resonates in all aspects of life. Lilly’s experience in soccer has taught her about resilience, teamwork, and the joy of being part of a community of athletes. For those interested in pursuing the sport, Lilly’s advice is simple yet profound: “It’s a really fun sport, work hard and always do your best!”
Lilly Dickerson’s story is more than just about playing soccer; it’s about the transformative power of sports in shaping young lives. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others, showing that with dedication, hard work, and a positive attitude, one can achieve great things. As Lilly continues to grow and excel in her sport, she not only sets an example for her peers but also carries the torch for the next generation of young athletes.
Nestled in the heart of Southern Oregon’s Colonial Valley area, Kaila Reinhart’s journey is one of dedication, passion, and success. A proud mother of four and wife to Jesse, her life is a whirlwind of family activities, jet boat racing, and real estate achievements. This dynamic professional balances her bustling family life with a thriving career, proving that with hard work and determination, it is indeed possible to have it all.
Growing up, Kaila was inspired by her parents’ commitment to their family and their professions. Her father’s landscaping business and her mother’s role as a stayat-home mom instilled in her the values of hard work and dedication. It was with her husband’s encouragement to do something she loves when Kaila decided to pursue a career in real estate, blending her availability for her family with her professional aspirations.
Kaila’s diverse background in accounting, finance, and healthcare, with experience at organizations like Dutch Bros, Grants Pass School District 7, and ROE Motors, has uniquely equipped her to navigate the complexities of the real estate world. She brings a blend of care and financial savvy to her clients, helping them make informed decisions about their most significant investments.
What sets Kaila apart is her deep understanding of the local area. Her knowledge of the community’s
development and future growth enables her to provide valuable insights to her clients. She believes in a collaborative approach, sharing her knowledge with colleagues and continuously learning to improve her craft.
Kaila’s achievements in real estate are a source of pride. In 2022, she reached the Platinum Club within the RE/MAX organization and ranked in the top 10% of her office—all while welcoming her fourth child into the world. She is a shining example of how it’s possible to balance motherhood with a demanding career.
Her mission is straightforward: to guide clients through the real estate process with a perfect mix of professionalism and familyoriented service. She understands that buying or selling a home is not just a transaction but a significant life event. Kaila is committed to making this experience as smooth and memorable as possible.
On a personal note, Kaila is a mother of four beautiful children: Corbin (12), Cason (7), Reece (3), Layton (1) and a dog named Otis. She has an identical twin sister, Alannah. She has been married to her husband, Jesse, who races hydroplanes and jet boats, for nearly 15 years. She enjoys salmon fishing, riding RZRs at the dunes, and spending time on the river, highlighting her adventurous spirit.
When it comes to her business, Kaila is flexible with her schedule, understanding that not everyone operates on a typical 9-to-5 timetable. She is passionate about educating her clients, ensuring they are well-informed throughout their real estate journey.
Kaila Reinhart’s story is one of inspiration and achievement. Balancing a bustling family life with a successful career, she has carved out a niche in the real estate world, providing unmatched service and expertise to her clients. With Kaila, you’re not just finding a home; you’re embarking on a journey with a trusted guide who values professionalism and family just as much as you do!
Kaila can be reached at 541-660-4377 or via email at kaila. reinhart@remax.net. Her office is located at RE/MAX Integrity, 1830 NE 7th St, Grants Pass, OR 97526. For more information, visit kaila-reinhart.remax.com
I had a fantastic experience working with Kaila Reinhart in buying and selling homes. Despite being 200 miles away, I was always in the loop about my property sale, thanks to Kaila’s excellent communication. Her ability to creatively negotiate and maintain a positive atmosphere for all parties involved was impressive. During the stressful process of selling a home, Kaila’s support skills were invaluable. I highly recommend her for anyone looking for a top-notch real estate agent. -
Donna McHenryWorking with Kaila and the RE/MAX team was a privilege. Kaila consistently went above and beyond our expectations, showing tremendous knowledge, expertise, and incredible responsiveness. She genuinely cares and is willing to fight for her clients every step of the way.
- Jason L.Kaila is the ideal realtor – knowledgeable, responsive, and honest. Whether it was exploring multiple properties in a day or navigating our move from Arizona, she was always there, offering support and guidance without being pushy. Her kindness and attentiveness made her feel like a best friend during our home search. Kaila is exceptional and comes highly recommended for anyone navigating the complexities of real estate. -
Lisa S.She was given the nickname “Grandma of Grants Pass.” A woman who navigated the currents of time with resilience, having sacrificed two beloved sons in the Civil War. Within that shadow emerged a profound strength and enduring spirit.
Her name was Jemima Frakes Hathaway. Born on December 14, 1820 in Vigo County, Indiana, she was the oldest of 10 children for William and Lydia (Thatcher) Frakes. When Jemima was 15, the family moved to Porter, Indiana which was a journey north of more than 200 miles. The Grants Pass Journal explained that Jemima rode a horse like a cowboy and assisted with driving a band of cattle that belonged to the family. At times, they had to swim through almost impossible swamps and across swollen streams.
The lack of advanced meteorological instruments during this time meant they relied on natural signs for the weather, such as the behavior of animals and changes in vegetation. Severe storms, including tornadoes, were not uncommon. Winters occasionally dropped below freezing, accompanied by snowfall.
In December of 1839, shortly after her 19th birthday, Jemima married Joseph Coe Hathaway. By 1850, five children had been born in Indiana when Joseph caught “the gold fever.” With an ox team, he headed to California and worked in the mines for four years. Jemima stayed back in Indiana, taking over the farm and caring for six children by 1854. (The oldest was Mary whose family is pictured in this article.) Farming was the primary occupation and the community was close-knit, with family-life and church as central. Transportation meant horsedrawn wagons or boats on rivers.
Having heard that land in Dallas County, Iowa was fertile for farming, Joseph and Jemima moved to the vast prairies of wheat and corn, where their seventh child was born. However, their extended Frakes and Hathaway family members had relocated a hundred miles south to the
small town of Grant City, Missouri, so in 1856, Jemima and her crew joined them –and the final four of 11 children were born.
Rather than the next decade being filled with joy, it was a dark time, as Jemima’s oldest two sons, John and William, were both killed as they fought for the Union Army in the Civil War. In addition, her youngest daughter died at only two years old.
By then, Jemima was 45 and her body bore the marks of hard labor amidst the challenges of frontier life. Weathered by adversity, she confronted each day with unwavering resolve. In a society tethered by rigid expectations, she defied the norms, forging a path that echoed with determination. She considered herself a suffragist, and politics became important to her. Not only did she support the Missouri town where she lived–named after Ulysses
S Grant–but in 1881, Jemima and her husband moved to Grants Pass, Oregon which, too, was named after the 18th President of the United States.
Grants Pass had been settled in the late 1840s. The first post office was established in 1865, and Grants Pass became the Josephine County seat in 1886 – the year that Joseph Hathaway passed away at the age of 80. Jemima, 76, carried on. Active and popular in the community, she only had to be referred to as “Grandma” for those in Grant Pass to know that meant “Jemima Hathaway.” In fact, the headline for The Grants Pass Daily Courier on January 18, 1913 was: “Grandma Hathaway at 92 years, One of Oregon’s Most Remarkable Women.” She was still of sound mind and body, able to take care of herself, and insisted on working in the kitchen to cook for others. She helped take care of her local grandkids, hosted community activities, and was skilled in sewing. That same year, she traveled by train to visit her children who lived out-of-state. It seemed there was nothing Jemima couldn’t do.
Jemima was 95 when she passed away on May 27, 1916. She had 58 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren! At that time, 70 of her 107 surviving descendants lived in Oregon. Her obituary reported that, throughout her life, she had been “energetic, strictly honest, and intensely religious.” She was “a true pioneer.”
Jemima is buried in the Deer Creek Cemetery of Josephine County, but her legacy remains forever as a woman who was able to care for the Grants Pass community as if they all were her grandkids. Born in a time of horse-drawn carriages and candlelight, she saw the rise of steam engines, electricity, and automobiles. Living through the turn of the century, she saw the suffrage movement gain momentum, marking a shift in societal norms. Her life spanned through the Civil War, Reconstruction Era, and the dawn of the 20th Century. Through it all, she adapted with a spirit as strong as the years she lived.
In the bustling world of social media and digital marketing, a unique mother-daughter team, Margaret Sundin-McCann and Stetson Weichers, stands out with their business, Everything Envy. This dynamic duo has transformed their passion for home organization into a thriving digital content creation hub, capturing the hearts of women across the globe.
Everything Envy, established in 2016 by Margaret as “The Clutter Bee,” initially focused on home organization, particularly in senior relocations. However, the brand evolved remarkably after Stetson joined in 2019. They rebranded to Everything Envy in 2020, venturing into luxury relocation and home organizing services. But the real game-changer came in 2021, when Stetson’s experiments with Instagram reels skyrocketed their follower count and opened up new avenues for revenue through social media.
Today, Everything Envy is a powerhouse in finding the best home, travel, and organizational products on Amazon, with a massive social media presence across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Facebook, and Amazon LIVE. Their journey from a small home organizing business to digital influencers is a testament to their resilience, adaptability, and creativity.
The secret behind Everything Envy’s success lies in their genuine care for their audience. They don’t just share products; they connect with their followers as friends, a quality that sets them apart in the digital world. Their background in home organizing gives them an edge in creating viral content, particularly videos featuring organizing makeovers that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Margaret’s inspiration to start her own business came from a deep-seated passion for organizing and a desire for time and financial freedom to travel. Her leap of faith in quitting her job and starting a business has led to an incredible journey of growth, learning, and success.
Everything Envy’s mission is to inspire women to create stylish and organized systems using the latest trends and home finds. Their expertise in creating engaging short-form videos and leveraging social media algorithms has made online shopping an enjoyable and accessible experience for their audience.
Margaret was born and raised in Southern California and moved to Southern Oregon (after living in Arizona for a time) while pregnant with Stetson. Stetson was born at home in Grants Pass, and both have been deeply involved in this community ever since. Their love for good food, travel, and local businesses like House of Glory, Bohemian, and Fiona Bean reflects their strong connection to their roots.
Looking ahead, Everything Envy aims to expand their brand, potentially developing a product line and establishing a presence on YouTube. With a podcast that delves into the nitty-gritty of business and their personal experiences, this mother-daughter duo continues to inspire and innovate in the digital space.
For more information, visit Everything Envy’s website at https://everythingenvy.com/ and follow them on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, and their Amazon Storefront.