We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships! December 2024
Page 12: Home for the Holidays, shopping local ... ... Continued Page 3
MChamber Membership
embership in the chamber is much more than a plaque on the wall, the fulfillment of a sense of civil obligation, or the means to generate new business. Rather, membership represents a commitment to the continued prosperity of Josephine County’s economy. The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce is the catalyst that enables businesses to accomplish collectively what no one business could do alone. A strong united effort gives a voice to members. Tourism, service, retail and manufacturing each contribute to our business community. Come visit us about joining the Chamber and add your energetic voice to the community.
Chamber of Commerce Contact Information
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce 1995 NW Vine Street • Grants Pass, OR 97526
Phone: 541.476.7717 • GPCOC@grantspasschamber.org • www.grantspasschamber.org
Board of Directors
Mark Stutzman - Farmer’s Bldg Supply
Kelsy Ausland - Ausland Group
Executive Board of Directors
CHAIR/Kate LaskyJosephine Community Libraries
CHAIR ELECT/ Alan Meyer - Pacific Power
VICE CHAIR/ Donnie Garnett - People’s Bank
TREASURER/ Meghan Boehm - So. OR Aspire
PAST CHAIR/ Trent CarpenterSouthern Oregon Sanitation
EJeff Javelona - Old Town Mail House
Juliet Long - RCC
Lee Wassink - The Glass Forge
Brian Bouteller - Gospel Rescue Mission
Nathan Miller - Rentec Direct
Kevin Gill - Clouser Drilling Co.
Tiffany Johnson - RE/MAX
Terri Wiley - Evergreen Fed Bank
very Thursday Morning at 10:30 A.M. Chamber Chatter is sponsored by Evergreen Federal Bank, showcasing events and businesses in our area.
Chamber Chatter is fun and informative while discussions with the Morning Hosts of KAJO, KLDR and KRRM keep it lively and interesting.
Join us at 10:30 A.M. each Thursday morning to listen to Chamber Chatter and find out what is happening in our community for the weekend. Keep your radio dialed to 94.7 FM, 98.3 FM, 99.7 FM or 1270 AM 10:30-11:00 A.M.
Chamber Foundation
Lowell Gibson - NiceBadge - Chair
Roy Lindsay - Vice Chair
Rebecca Stoltz- JCLF - Secretary
Terri Wiley- Evergreen Fed Bank - Treasurer Lawton Lesueur - Director; Mid.Emp.Ins. Hyla Lipson- Director, GP Museum of Art
Sponsored
Terry Hopkins President/CEO
Christie Swafford Programs & Events
Trina Runyan Membership & Business Development
Shirley Liska Office Assistant
Karen Henningsen Accounting Contractor
Cat Bonney Graphics Contractor
December is a magical time of year, filled with festive lights, the warmth of family and friends, and a renewed sense of gratitude for the place we call home. Here in Grants Pass and Josephine County, “home” is more than just where we live; it’s a community built on the heart and hard work of our local businesses.
As we celebrate the holiday season, let’s remember that every time we choose to shop local, we’re not just purchasing a gift—we’re giving one, too. Local businesses are the cornerstone of our community, creating jobs, supporting our schools and nonprofits, and contributing to the unique charm that makes our area so special.
When you step into a downtown shop, enjoy a meal at a family-owned restaurant, or purchase a handmade item from a local artisan, you’re investing in your neighbors and the future of our community. These are the businesses that sponsor Little League teams, provide auction donations for fundraisers, and bring life to our community events. They’re the reason Grants Pass and Josephine County feel like “home.”
This holiday season, let’s show our appreciation by keeping our dollars close to home. Whether you’re looking for one-of-a-kind gifts, a festive night out, or delicious treats to share with loved ones, our local businesses are ready to make your season bright.
Thank you to those who joined us for the Cocoa Crawl on Small Business Saturday or stopped by the Welcome Center for free gift wrapping—it’s all part of how we celebrate the spirit of shopping small and local this season.
Together, let’s make this a December to remember by supporting those who make our community shine. Because when we invest in local businesses, we’re building a community we can all be proud to call home—this holiday season and beyond.
Happy Holidays!
Terry Hopkins President & CEO,
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce
541-956-4100 • thopkins@grantspasschamber.org
Be involved with your Business Community
Wednesdays ~ Starts at 8:00 am • Doors Open @ 7:45 for Networking
Our Mission is to support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy, and partnerships! Membership Info: 541-956-4102
December 2024
Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00
Dec 4th
Joy with Epicure Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr. Dec 11th SO Aspire
The Hivve 164 SE G Street
Dec 18th
St Paul’s Lutheran Church 865 SW 5th Street
Dec 25th
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Greeters is a powerful networking group where you can interact with an average of 75 business professionals on a weekly basis. Non-Members are invited to attend up to (3) times as a guest. Doors open at 7:45am. The Chamber Ambassadors collect $1.00 and a business card at the door. Refreshments are provided . The meeting commences promptly at 8:00 AM. Our host has 5 minutes to showcase their business/organization. Emcee’s review the meeting rules and begin introductions from business cards. When introduced you have 30 seconds to share your information. ~ We look forward to meeting you!
WELCOME TO
Everyone needs tools to start, build, manage, and grow their business.
While starting a new business can be overwhelming, the Small Business Tool Kit provided by the City of Grants Pass will help you on your way to turning your dream business into a realty.
It’s a friendly, easy-to-read resource to help you navigate the business tax certificate and the permit process.
https://www.grantspasschamber.org/small-business-tool-kit-gp/
TITLE SPONSOR
with The Library Library Resources to help Grow your Business!
Illinois Valley Library Grand Opening
Have you heard the news?
The new Illinois Valley library is now fully operational, with volunteers and staff eagerly ready to welcome you. Featuring a community room for 80 people, a teaching kitchen, an early learning center, and an outdoor children’s program space, the Illinois Valley branch has something to offer everyone. Visit josephinelibrary.org/branches/illinois-valley for hours and to reserve the meeting space.
A library card is not needed to participate. Yet, if you need to, sign up for an instant online library card today at: josephinelibrary.org/library-cards.
A special thank you to Ausland Group, City of Cave Junction, Josephine County Solid Waste Agency, Southern Oregon Sanitation, ZCS Architecture and Engineering, and all the donors who made this project possible.
“Serving
Started in 1994, AllCare Independent Physician Association (IPA) is a team of local doctors and providers with one focus: preventing illness and promoting healthy lifestyles in our communities. We live here. We know you. Together, we are AllCare IPA. Changing healthcare to work for you. AllCareHealth.com/IPA
Douglas 1585 NW Washington Blvd Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 476-7000
Greater Glendale 101 1st Street Glendale, OR 97442 (541) 832-5400
Illinois Valley 341 Cottage Park, Suite 1 Cave Junction, OR 97523 (541) 450-3625
Mountainview 741 NE 6th Street Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 471-2701
Rogue 1215 NE 7th Street Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 471-2701
WellSpring 1716 Williams Highway Grants Pass, OR 97527 (541) 474-6053
In 1994, a forward-thinking group of local physicians came together to “provide cost effective healthcare to our community”. Thanks to them and to the ongoing leadership of our board and executive staff, this spring AllCare Health has the opportunity to celebrate 30 years of service to our communities. AllCareHealth.com
In 1985 My husband bought me a candy store in Morgan Hill California. At that time I only knew how to make my Great Grandmothers English Toffee. The shop was stocked with candy, upon discovering that all the products were rancid and I only had a small budget, I had to learn to make enough to keep the shop stocked. Trial and error (lots of errors). After 3 years I closed the shop and went back to work. My heart really was in chocolate.
building became available. That was 20 years ago. Oh what fun and hard work it has been.
In 20 years Sandi’s Candies has had many fund raisers, I think my favorite was “Stockings for Soldiers” this was done with the 4 H. We did this 3 years in a row.
In 2020 we were so blessed that Jack worked with us to purchase the Blind Georges Popcorn machine. That machine saved us during the Covid pandemic.
We moved to Grants Pass 30 years ago. I worked at Erickson Air Crane then went to work at Met One. Still doing chocolates in our home. A shop became open on 6th street next to Glamor by Jan. I was there for 6 years. This was a great opportunity to introduce Grants Pass to my work. I was there for 6 years then The House of Nutrition ~ Sandi Crowder
Sandi’s Candies could not have made it without the wonderful staff we have had over the years. A big thank you to them.
I love this town and how it has supported me for 26 years. I feel that if you live here you need to support the local businesses any way you can.
Dear Valued Members,
As we approach a new year and prepare for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support of the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce. Your commitment has played a vital role in our mission to enhance the vitality of local businesses and foster economic growth in our community.
Looking ahead to 2025, I am asking if you would consider the many sponsorship opportunities available through the Chamber. As you finalize your annual budget, please keep in mind that these sponsorships are not just financial contributions; they are investments in the future of our community. They enable us to host essential events that strengthen our local economy and provide valuable networking opportunities for our members.
Our events serve as a major funding source to continue our efforts to advocate for businesses, support workforce development, and stimulate economic growth. By becoming a sponsor, you not only elevate your business’s visibility but also demonstrate your commitment to the community.
Here are some key events where your sponsorship can make a significant impact:
• Annual Awards Banquet - February 14, 2025: Celebrate local achievements with us as we honor outstanding businesses and community leaders. “We LOVE Business”
• Wine Stroll - May 10, 2025: A beloved event that showcases our local wineries and attracts visitors from near and far.
• Concerts in the Park - June – July 2025: A vibrant series that brings the community together for music and fun.
• Lemonade Day - August 2, 2025: Invest in the future by helping young entrepreneurs learn the ropes of business.
• Tap Walk - October 11, 2025: Another fantastic opportunity to support local breweries and engage the community.
• Peerspectives - Multiple professional development and business-oriented seminars with a panel of industry experts.
Your sponsorship not only enhances our events but also empowers the Chamber to continue its essential work. Together, we can foster a thriving environment for local businesses and make a lasting impact on our community.
If you would like to explore sponsorship opportunities or discuss how to elevate your membership, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can call me at 541-956-4100 or email me at thopkins@grantspasschamber.org. For a complete list of sponsorship options, visit our website at www.grantspasschamber.org.
Thank you for being an integral part of our Chamber community. Your support truly makes a difference!
Small Business Education ~ SCORE.org Recorded Webinars Workshops, Webinars, Events and Courses for Business Growth Gain insights and skills needed to grow your business. Our small business training includes live and recorded webinars, in-person and online workshops, events and courses led by industry experts. Whether you’re starting out or looking to expand, we provide the educational tools to help you succeed.
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
Pacific Aviation 2344 Carton Way
UPCOMING Ribbon Cuttings
Sandi’s Candies - Dec 6th 4:00 PM 145 SW G Street
Agora Artisan Eatery - Dec 11th 3:00 PM 208 SW 6th Street
Growler Guys - Dec 19th, 11:00 AM 531 NE F Street
Find 202 SW 6th Street
Rare
Josephine Community Library Illinois Valley Branch, CJ
In this new segment we will share the continued momentum and meaningful engagements our Chamber has maintained, as well as the promising endeavors that lie ahead through the following “Reviews and Previews”...
Reviews:
• Young Professionals Network: Our young professionals hosted a free learning opportunity at the Hivve. An engaging panel-style discussion offered guests the opportunity to learn from local experts on strategies and experiences in fundraising for their organization.
SI CASA FLORES
• City of Grants Pass Proclamation: Chamber President & CEO, Terry Hopkins was presented with a proclamation recognizing the importance of small businesses in Grants Pass and their vital contribution to our community. The proclamation presented by Mayor Bristol and the Grants Pass City Council announced Saturday November 30th, 2024 was Small Business Saturday but urged constituents to shop local yearround.
• Cocoa Crawl: In addition to the Shop Small Season campaign, the Chamber hosted a first-ever Cocoa Crawl event. The event featured over 25 local merchants offering tast-
ings of hot cocoa to shoppers, who took advantage of holiday deals, dined at local eateries and shared in the festivities of the holiday season. The Chamber offered free gift wrapping for purchases made at participating locations.
• Urban Renewal Planning: The City of Grants Pass hosted a listening session and asked for input on the agency’s 30-year Urban Renewal Plan, which is focused on establishing economic and infrastructure projects. The Chamber’s focus on this planning will encourage the Urban Renewal Agency to put business retention and expansion as priorities for the projects presented.
"Vida Feliz" or "Happy life" is our family motto
• Budget: The Chamber’s Board of Directors passed the 2025 operating budget that was presented by the Finance Committee and CEO. The budget will maintain current levels of service for staffing, programming and advocacy but also includes goals of growing membership, building on educational opportunities and investing in staff development.
• Ribbon Cuttings: Chamber Ambassadors welcomed Rare Find A Social Boutique to the heart of downtown Grants Pass. They celebrated the grand opening of the expanded and renovated Illinois Valley Library and recognized Pacific Aviation Northwest’s 20th anniversary and expanded programs with ribbon cutting celebrations.
Previews:
• Legislative Agenda: Our Government Affairs Committee will begin work to draft a legislative agenda to steer our
advocacy priorities in 2025. We will work in conjunction with the State Chamber to address priorities in Salem, while also working to draft a framework relative to the Chamber’s mission to support and promote local commerce.
• Sponsorship Opportunities: With our 2025 sponsorship and event calendar complete, Chamber staff will be working with local businesses to identify opportunities to promote their businesses through Chamber events and programming. If you are interested in highlighting your business reach out Christie Swafford to learn more about the many opportunities available.
• Young Professionals Network: YPN will return as volunteer staff for this year’s Rogue Winterfest event. Rogue Winterfest is one of our favorite events of the year and proceeds support several of the incredible mental health facilities in our region.
• Ribbon Cuttings: Chamber Ambassadors will welcome two great new food and beverage establishments this month as we visit Agora Artisan Eatery and The Original Growler Guys to celebrate their openings. If you or someone you know would like to host a ribbon cutting we have one more opportunity available in December.
• Annual Awards Banquet: SAVE THE DATE! Our annual award banquet will be a Valentines Day special as we celebrate success in business and honor our community partners February 14th , 2025. Tickets and sponsorships are available now and nominations for awards open this month.
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
Chetco Brewing Company
Chetco Brewing Company
Address: 830 Railroad Street Brookings, OR 97415
Phone: 541-661-5347
Primary Contact: Alex Carr-Frederick
Email: BigAl@chetcobrew.com
Website: www.chetcobrew.com
Category: Brewery/Distillery/Tap House/Tasting Room
Description:
Micro Brewery nestled in Brookings offering over 15 house made beer varieties, kombucha and sodas. Large event space, weekly music and activities and rotating food trucks.
Mill St. Coffee
Mill St. Coffee
Address: 101 NE Mill Street
Phone: (541)226-2176
Primary Contact: Kirk Greenman
Email: kirkgreenman@hotmail.com
Website: www.Facebook.com/MillStCoffee101
Category: Coffee/Espresso Shops
Description:
Drive Thru and walk up: Featuring Rogue Roaster Organic Espresso Blend. Fueling your coffee cravings, one cup at a time.
The Legal Team LDA
The Legal Team LDA
Address: 106 NW F Street #215, Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 295-7064
Primary Contact: Monica Simmons
Email: thelegalteamlda@gmail.com
Website: www.TheLegalTeamLDA.com
Category: Legal Services
Description:
Monica Simmons is a dedicated legal professional with a passion for helping Clents in legal document preparation for many cases such as: Civil, Legal, Citizenship and Family law.
Her bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish allows her to assist a diverse clientele especially women in crisis situations and citizenship documents for over 10 yrs. in CA, AZ and OR.
The Legal Team LDA
Monica Simmons 541-295-7064
Directors Mortgage
Directors Mortgage
Address:1595 NE 6th St. Suite F.
Phone: (541) 218-5156
Primary Contact: Jena Heth
Email: jena.heth@directorsmortgage.net
Website: www.DirectorsMortgage.net
Category: Mortgages/Loans & Mortage Advisors
Description:
Committed to exceptional service and personalized home loan solutions, we bring ease to your homeownership journey. Directors Mortgage offers a wide range of options and mortgage solutions, so whether you’re buying or refinancing, we’re focused on you and customizing your home loan to meet your goals.
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
The Bearded Baker
The Bearded Baker
Address:100 Marble Mountain Rd, Grants Pass
Phone: (520) 334-7819
Primary Contact: Peter Krause
Email: beardedbakeraz@gmail.com
Website: None
Category: Bakery
Description:
Contact me for The Best Cheesecake Around
TravelHost
TravelHost
Address: 534 NE E. Street Suite E,
Phone: (541) 472-5259
Primary Contact: Marilyn Somics
Email: marilyn@dream-trips.com
Website: www.TravelHostTravelAgency.com
Category: Travel
Description:
Welcome to Travelhost, your go-to Grants Pass, OR travel agency for unforgettable ocean cruises across the United States and the world! As a locally and woman-owned business with over 30 years of experience, we’re dedicated to providing personalized travel experiences for our valued customers. We also specialize in smaller ship cruises and group departures, making sure that your journey is truly one-of-a-kind.
Rocket Laser Graphics
Rocket
Laser Graphics
Address: Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 441-6052
Primary Contact: Ronda Eyre
Email: info@rocketlasergraphics.com
Website: www.rocketlasergraphics.com/
Category: Recognition & Promotion- Plaques & Specialties
Description :
Laser engraved items to promote southern Oregon, and local businesses. We make ornaments, wooden journals, coasters, cutting boards and so much more. We would love to talk with you to create something unique for your business
Growler Guys Taphouse
Growler Guys Taphouse
Address: 531 NE F Street
Phone: (541) 916-5558
Primary Contact: Don Newell
Email: donnewell@thegrowlerguys.com
Website: www.thegrowlerguys.com/
Category: Brewery/Distillery/Tap House/Tasting Room
Description:
The concept is pretty cool: Our first growler fill station in Bend, Oregon at the Stop and Go Shell gas station has 45 of the most varied local craft beer favorites, and not-so-local brews, on tap for you to choose from and take home in either a 32-oz or 64-oz growler. What started as a fill station has now grown to many locations across several states serving amazing craft beer in tap house settings yet still providing the unique to go options we have been known for!
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
PacJet Inc.
PacJet, Inc.
Address: 2244 Carton Way, Grants Pass 97526
Phone: (541)690-8294
Primary Contact: Lisa Javoric
Email: lisaj@flypacjet.com
Website: www.flypacjet.com
Category: Aviation
Description:
Private charter services for personal and business needs with professionalism and excellent customer service. Do you own an aircraft, we also offer aircraft management services and can help facilitate an acquisition or sale if needed.
LIT Aero Consulting LLC
LIT Aero Consulting LLC
Address: Grants Pass, Oregon/ Nationwide Phone: (541) 218-0038
Primary Contact: David Traeger
Email: david@litaero.com
Website: www.litaero.com
Category: Aviation
Description:
Aircraft consulting and appraisals with over 30 years aviation experience. Buyer/seller advocate, expert witness, aircraft maintenance oversight and/or review, aircraft management oversight and/or review, and aircraft purchase from start to finish.
Judy has been a Chamber Volunteer for over 18 years! Thank you so much for your service to our community!
Interested in Volunteering at the Chamber Visitor Center? Please contact Shirley! sliska@grantspasschamber.org • 541-476-7717
The Young Professionals Network is for young professionals in the target age range of 18-45 who are looking for networking opportunities with other young professionals, connections to the community and business leaders, community engagement, and professional development. The network holds monthly luncheons, quarterly socials, and community service projects.
First Community Credit Union, Asante, Hampton Inn & Suites, Peoples Bank, Midland Empire Insurance, RE/MAX Integrity-Bifano Home Team, Sunshine Solar Inc, Kendon Leet Real Estate, Weekend Beer Co. Logan Design and Nicebadge
In November our Young Professionals Network had two opportunities to connect. We met for the Quarterly Trash Clean-Up for Adopt-a-Street and then hosted a Professional Development Panel Discussion on Fundraising at the Hivve. While the trash clean-up was a smaller crowd, it was still a great networking opportunity.
For the panel, we were so fortunate to feature Jessica King of the Boys & Girls Club, Daniella Avila of Project Youth+ and Rebecca Stoltz of the Josephine Community Library Foundation. Each panelist agreed that strong relationships are the key to any funding campaign. Building community buy in is done with trust and transparency, a clear mission and strong communication. We learned that there are several programs available for managing donor databases and personalized tracking. AI is definitely another frequently used tool in gathering accurate metrics and compiling data. This panel pumped out so much great information, you can soon find the recording on the Chamber YouTube channel.
With the final month of the year, we have two more opportunities available. On December 8th we are volunteering for the Rogue Winterfest then on the 12th we are hosting our annual Ugly Sweater Party which benefits the JOCO Food Bank For event information and registration, please visit our Community Calendar at www.grantspasschamber.org For event information and registration, please visit our Community Calendar at www.grantspasschamber.org. To learn more about the Young Professionals Network, please email Christie Swafford at cswafford@grantspasschamber.org. Follow us on social media. Sign up for text alerts by texting GPYPN to 38316.
Chamber of Commerce Text Messaging Program
General Messages - Text GPJC to 38316 To join the YPN group - Text GPYPN to 38316 To join the Greeters groupText GREETERS to 38316
To join the Merchant groupText MERCHANT to 38316
A&S Cleaning LLC
Adobe Acrobat
Appliance & Mower Center
Booth Street Self Storage
Caveman Heating & A/C, Inc.
City Plywood & Lumber Center
CPM Real Estate Services
Grants Pass Surgery Center
Habitat for Humanity, GP Area
KOBI - TV NBC 5
Les Schwab Tire Centers
Mama D’s Authentic Kitchen
MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc.
Mid Rogue Imaging Center
Nectar Markets, LLC
Network In Action Oregon
Nicebadge
Oregon Caves National
Monument & Preserve
Pepsi Beverages Company
Quinn’s Well Pump & Filtration Service
Republic Services
Robyn Lasky Oregon Broker
@ RE/MAX Integrity
Rogue Workforce Partnership
Zonta Club of Grants Pass
MONTHLY UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Greeters- “Business for Breakfast”
Every Wednesday - 8:00 am
Connect w/Enews & Calendar for Locations
Government Affairs Committee*
1st Monday - 9:00 am
Young Professionals Network Committee (YPN)*
2nd Monday - 12:00 noon
Business Retention & Expansion Committee*
2nd Tuesday - 8:00 am
Chamber Board Meeting*
2nd Thursday - 8:00 am
Ambassador Committe Meeting* 1st Wednesday - 7:00 am
