Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce Newsletter: July 2025

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Page 12: Our Youth get ready for Lemonade Day 2025...

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

Board of Directors

Mark Stutzman - Farmer’s Bldg Supply

Patrick Sharp - Asante

Executive

Board of Directors

CHAIR/Alan Meyer - Pacific Power

CHAIR ELECT/ Donnie Garnett - People’s Bank

VICE CHAIR/ Meghan Boehm - So. OR Aspire

TREASURER/ Terri WileyEvergreen Fed Bank

PAST CHAIR/ Kate LaskyJosephine Community Libraries

EJeff Javelona - Old Town Mail House

Juliet Long - RCC

Lee Wassink - The Glass Forge

Brian Bouteller - Gospel Rescue Mission

Nathan Miller - Rentec Direct

Kelsy Ausland - Ausland Group

Kevin Gill - Clouser Drilling Co.

Tiffany Johnson - RE/MAX

Ryan Queener- MasterBrand

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 - Retired, 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

Kiana Stiles - Director

Sponsored

By:

This Month on Chamber Chatter: • 4th of July Festival • Farmhouse Networking • The Mixed Grill • • Riverside Home Health • Chamber Lemonade Day •

& Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org

Terry Hopkins President/CEO
Christie Swafford Programs & Events
Trina Runyan Membership & Business Development
Shirley Liska Office Assistant
Colt Foster Accounting Contractor
Cat Bonney Graphics Contractor

A Year of Impact, A Future of Promise

As I reflect on my first year as President & CEO of the Chamber, I am filled with gratitude and pride. In just twelve months, we’ve welcomed 91 new members to the Chamber and maintained a member retention rate of over 90%. These numbers are more than just metrics—they represent the power of a connected and engaged business community. Our members are the lifeblood of our organization, and their continued investment fuels everything we do.

This year has been one of meaningful engagement and strategic growth. I’ve had the honor of representing the voice of local business on several community boards and advisory committees. We’ve taken your concerns directly to Salem, testifying before both the Oregon House and Senate on legislation that impacts our economy. We even hosted the Oregon House Committee on Economic Development right here in Grants Pass—bringing the conversation home and letting our business owners speak for themselves. Locally, we were also an impactful advocate for funding the Sheriff’s budget, a decision that will return 24/7 patrols to Josephine County and strengthen the safety foundation our economy depends on.

Workforce development remains a key focus. We’ve partnered with local schools, Project Youth +, the Boys & Girls Club, Options for Education, and the Small Business Development Center to help prepare tomorrow’s workforce. And of course, we’ve continued to build community through beloved events like Tap Walk, Wine Stroll, Concerts in the Park, and Lemonade Day.

Looking ahead, we are nearing completion of a strategic planning framework, generously funded by the Ford Family Foundation. In 2026, our focus will center on three strategic priorities: Strengthening Local Economic Vitality, Championing Business-Focused Advocacy, and Cultivating Community Engagement. We’re also excited to launch the Rogue Leadership Training Experience—an immersive 8-month program designed to shape and empower local leaders. And this fall, we will conduct our Business Retention & Expansion Committee’s survey, which will guide our priorities for the coming years.

I stepped into a highly functioning Chamber with a rich 100-year history. As we look to the future, I am honored to build on that legacy—and eager to shape the next century of success together.

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

July 2025

Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00

July 2nd

BBrainstorm

Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.

July 9th

Cynthia’s Home Sweet Home 1038 NW 6th Street

July 16th

The Daily Courier

Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.

July 23rd

Banner Bank- North Branch 1409 NE 7th

July 30th WaFD 290 Union Ave

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!

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/

July 2025

Valerie Kennedy

VLK Bookkeeping

Emcee- Sherri Scott, Sherri Scott Real Estate

Valerie Kennedy, VLK Bookkeeping

Emcee- Mark Stutzman, Farmer’s Building Supply

PUBLIC NOTICE

Invitation to Review and Comment on the Draft 2025–2030 One Rogue Valley – Reimagined Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)

Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development, Inc. (SOREDI), serving as the regional Planning Organization for Jackson and Josephine Counties, has completed a draft update of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for 2025–2030, titled “One Rogue Valley – Reimagined.” The CEDS is a locally developed, regionally driven strategy that identifies priorities for economic development and resilience in Southern Oregon.

In accordance with U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) requirements, SOREDI is providing this notice to invite public review and comment. The draft CEDS is available for public inspection and comment for a period of 30 days beginning July 1, 2025, and ending July 30, 2025.

Where to Access the Draft CEDS:

- Online: One Rogue Valley (1RV) Regional Strategy - SOREDI

- Hard copies available by request at: SOREDI Office – 100 E Main Street Suite A Medford, OR 97501 Or by calling (541) 773-8946

How to Provide Comments: Comments may be submitted by:

- Email: info@soredi.org

- Mail: SOREDI, PO Box 4672 Medford, OR 97501

- Or via the online form at: One Rogue Valley (1RV) Regional Strategy Feedback - SOREDI

All comments received during the public comment period will be reviewed and considered prior to submitting the final plan to the EDA.

Thank you for contributing to the future of economic prosperity in our region.

Learning with The Library Library Resources to help Grow your Business!

Food for Thought, Fresh from the Library

Show your library card at participating food trucks to receive 10 percent off your meal and an exclusive library sticker from June through August.

Stickers available while supplies last.

541 Fusion My Island Kitchen Blaze-N-Monkeys Scoop-N-Sips

Chunna’s Food Stop Soulwise Coffee Grip-N-Grub The Food Lab

Mad Dawgs

Need a Library Card? Visit a library branch near youGrants Pass Branch, Williams Branch, Illinois Valley Branch or the Wolf Creek Branch.

Thanks to the community and Asante Foundation, I received cancer care at Asante’s Helen K. Spears Cancer Center and could rest my head at The Family House when I traveled from Brookings for treatment.

Learn more and view Monty’s story online: asantefoundation.org/spears/

Monty, Grateful patient, Brookings, Ore.

AllCare Medical Group is a multisite medical practice that delivers provider-led, patient-centered healthcare to southern Oregon. Offices in Grants Pass, Glendale, Illinois Valley and more to come!

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 201 NE Savage Street Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 244-2197

WellSpring 1716 Williams Highway Grants Pass, OR 97527 (541) 474-6053

June 24th

Wild River Brewing & Pizza: Where Craft Meets Community Since

1975

For over five decades, Wild River Brewing & Pizza has been a cornerstone of Southern Oregon’s food and beverage scene, offering handcrafted beer and wood-fired pizzas made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. What began in 1975 as Miller’s Shady Oaks Pizza Deli in Cave Junction has grown into a family-owned legacy with five locations across the region— including Grants Pass, Medford, Brookings, and more.

At the heart of Wild River is a passion for quality. Brewers Scott, Seth and their team are constantly pushing the boundaries of craft beer with small-batch seasonal offerings that reflect the flavors of each time of year. From bold spiced ales to fruit-forward summer sippers, there’s always something new to try. Signature favorites like the Harbor Lights Kölsch, Jerry’s IPA, and Double Eagle Stout keep beer lovers coming back for more.

But Wild River is more than just beer. Our restaurants serve up hearty, handcrafted pizzas, pastas, salads, and seasonal specials in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. We also offer full-service catering, banquet space at the Grants Pass Pub, and a mobile tap trailer to bring the party wherever you are.

Whether you're celebrating a milestone, planning an event, or just looking for a great meal and a cold pint, Wild River invites you to stay awhile, stay wild --and come find us at Concerts in the Park!

Congrats Monique O. ! Winner of the Resource Fair Passport Prize

Working to Connect the Community through Shared Ideas:

Working Away

First month in the office! Wow, how time flies when your schedule is packed. It’s been a pretty good stream of work so far, challenging but not overwhelming. The real issue has been making sure my lunch is packed before I leave the house, ahaha..

Something I certainly didn’t expect during my second week was being interviewed for the newspaper! It was a very cool experience, though I think I would have been more insightful if I was able to talk about my future assignments that I’ve now completed/ am working on.

I’ve been doing both indoor and outdoor projects, the outside ones being Frog O’Faire and Concerts In The Park, which is a lot of helping out and capturing content. Work inside the office has been helping set up website updates on Lemonade Day, working on graphics for a manual designed for new businesses, and helping with social media tracking.

Everyone is super nice too, very sweet and helpful coworkers who are more than happy to help me whenever I have questions or need some assistance in a task. Plus they love to give me little nuggets of advice, like decorating my space, and having lunch breaks with them outside of my office.

I’m also grateful to have my own office space to do my work and play my own music– So far, Jurassic Park and Spanish/Japanese music and podcasts have been my choice of background ambiance, in case you wanted to know.

I can’t wait to update you on my progress!

SI CASA FLORES

The 2025 Oregon Legislative Session adjourned at 11:15 p.m. on June 27, capping a session that introduced more than 3,400 bills—though many priorities remained unresolved. Most notably, lawmakers left Salem without a transportation funding package despite eleventh-hour attempts to salvage a scaled-down plan.

The proposed $11.67 billion, 10-year plan (HB 2025) collapsed amid bipartisan concerns. A break with the long-standing state-local revenue-sharing model drew widespread opposition from cities and counties. A last-minute attempt to pass a limited funding patch also failed when House Republicans declined to suspend procedural rules. A special session later this summer is expected to revisit the issue.

While several harmful business bills were introduced this session, many were successfully mitigated or defeated thanks to strong advocacy and partnership across the business community. Notably, HB 3962 which would have redirected investments in tourism promotion failed to make it through the Senate. The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber testified in opposition to both the House and Senate on this bill. Still, a few significant policies passed that increase costs and risks for Oregon employers. These include SB 916, which allows striking

workers to collect unemployment benefits—raising concerns about longer work stoppages and higher payroll taxes. SB 426 expands liability for general contractors and property owners when subcontractors fail to pay wages. Signup for the Advocacy Alerts to stay informed and learn more!

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

3D LLC dba 3D Boats

Address: 2719 Industry Dr. Suite 7 & 8

Phone: (541) 990-0507

Primary Contact: Roy Damrill

Email: 3dllcoregon@gmail.com

Website: Google Business Profile

Category: Marine Manufacturing & Sales- Rafts/Boats

Description:

After years of building custom aluminum boats & trailers behind the scenes for another company, Roy Damrill has officially launched his own shop — where experience meets innovation. His craftsmanship has grown into a full-blown dream: building boats the way he believes they should be built — tough, clean, and built to last.

From guide boats to pleasure crafts, custom tops, parts, and fabrication, 3D LLC is all about quality, function, and style — with a personal touch.

Located in Grants Pass, Roy’s ready to meet you, collaborate, and build something epic for the water.

541Fusion

Address: 1572 NE 7th, Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 761-2373

Primary Contact: Alex Naranjo

Email: 541fusion@gmail.com

Website: Google Business Profile

Category: Food Truck

Description:

Global eats with a local beat.

Fresh Aire of Southern Oregon

Address: Medford

Phone: (541) 500-3535

Primary Contact: Karri Davis

Email: southernoregon@freshaire.com

Website: www.freshaire.com

Category: Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, disaster restoration

Description:

To create the best first impression for your customers as they walk through your doors, business owners and managers know they must focus on Sight, Sound and Smell. Since 1995, Fresh Aire has been a leader in the Scent Marketing industry and is expert at crafting a selection of fragrances that work for you through the seasons of the year.

Perez Kitchen & Bar

Address: 241 G Street, Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 226-2596

Primary Contact: Shanice Perez

Email: owner@perezkitchenandbar.com

Website: www.perezkitchenandbar.com

Category: Restaurants

Description:

Perez Kitchen & Bar brings big flavor to a small space, with a menu of seasonal chef specials, elevated cocktails, and a cozy environment that celebrates food and community. Located in downtown Grants Pass, we’re proud to be part of the local dining scene.

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

Cynthia’s Home Sweet Home

Address: 1038 NW 6th Street, Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 479-5953

Primary Contact: Cnthia Hewitt

Email: pjames@budget.net

Website: www.cynthiascomfortfood.com

Category: Attractions Events and Tours

Description:

Cynthia’s Home Sweet Home. We are a small, family-run bakery and cafe with comfort food from many cultures. We offer Murder Mystery Dinner Theater on Saturday nights, interactive fun for the whole family brought to you by The Whodunit? Players.

We also offer a Queen’s Afternoon Tea on Sundays or anytime by reservation. Brunch on Sundays. We are open during the week for lunch on the patio, dinner for pickup, private dining and catering. And pie, we like pie!

Our weekly schedule is filled with community events and classes. Stop by and see our oneof-a-kind products made by local artisans in the gift shop. Hope to see you soon for a piece of pie.

Stiles Sign Painting

Address: Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 415-0080

Duro- Last Roofing

Address: 111 North Valley Drive, Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 476- 9918

Primary Contact: Victor Daugherty

Email: victor.daugherty@amrize.com

Website: www.duro-last.com

Category: Manufacturing, Production & Wholesales

Duro-Last is a full system roofing provider, offering the widest range of thermoplastic single-ply solutions — from Edge-to-Edge & Deck-to-Sky™.

Fox 26 Broadcasting Communications

Address: 820 Crater Lake Ave Ste 105, Medford Phone: (541) 772-2600

Primary Contact: Kiana Stiles

Email: kianastiles@gmail.com

Website: https://business.grantspasschamber.org/list/ member/stiles-sign-painting-14238

Category: Plaques & Specialties

Description:

Stiles Sign Painting provides high-quality, handcrafted signage and promotional materials designed to meet your business needs. Located in Southern Oregon, I specialize in creating one-of-a-kind items that help businesses stand out. My services range from large storefront signs and murals to smaller-scale products like posters, flyers, and banners. Whether you’re looking to make a bold visual statement or simply promote your services, my custom-designed items offer a professional and artistic solution for businesses of all kinds. With a focus on fine craftsmanship, Stiles Sign Painting will be sure to create exactly what you need.

Primary Contact: Vickie Wright

Email: vwright@kmvu-tv.com

Website: www.fox26medford.com

Category: Television, Cable & Satellite

Description:

KMVU FOX 26 is Southern Oregon and Northern California’s local FOX Affiliate!

Stoned Metal

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

Address: Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 373-9580

Primary Contact: Willie and Christina Love

Email: stonedmetaljewelry@gmail.com

Website: www.stonedmetalnails.com

Category: Manufacturing, Production & Wholesales

Description:

Stoned Metal is a small family-run business led by couple Willie and Christina Love. Willie is a self-taught jeweler specializing in gemstone faceting, metalsmithing, engraving, stone setting, and more. His craftsmanship has gained viral attention on social media for custom-made sterling silver and gold fingernails. Christina handles logistics and brings a sharp eye for detail, ensuring every piece is thoughtfully executed and delivered with care. Together, they combine artistry and precision to create wearable works of art. Stoned Metal is where handcrafted quality meets striking, one-of-a-kind design—celebrating individuality through fine jewelry.

Chao-Saigon

Address: 1632 Williams Hwy, Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 226-2728

Primary Contact: Yung Hang

Email: yunghang17@icloud.com

Website: https://business.grantspasschamber.org/ list/member/chao-saigon-14244

Category: Restaurant

Description:

Vietnamese Cuisines

Authentic

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.

Peoples Bank of Commerce, First Interstate Bank, The Hivve, Midland Empire Insurance, Nicebadge Robyn Lasky@RE/MAX Integrity, Kendon Leet Real Estate, Weekend Beer Co., Logan Design, and Wild River Pub

As summer unfolds and activities fill our calendars, the Young Professionals Network (YPN) continues its tradition of community service with the annual Volunteer Project at the Josephine County Food Bank. The Food Bank plays an essential role in addressing food insecurity in the valley; a large portion being vulnerable groups like senior citizens and children. With the leadership of Executive Director Josephine Sze, the Food Bank feeds approximately 21,000 people each month.

The partnership with Raptor Creek Farms, managed by Kristin Meier and assisted by Jeff Meier, significantly contributes to the Food Bank’s efforts. The farm produces thousands of pounds of nutritious produce, benefiting the community. It also hosts a Community Garden, Education Series, and Demonstrations, fostering learning and growth.

The Food Bank’s success is largely due to its dedicated volunteers who assist in various capacities, from distribution through pantries to food retrieval from grocery partners and managing donation barrels and green bags. The Green Bag Program has notably shifted to support 15 school pantries by collecting kid-friendly, easily accessible items for students to take home. For those interested in volunteering or supporting, visit http://www.jocofoodbank.org.

We extend our sincere thanks to Patrice Hanlon for organizing our visit and to the newest team member, Daniel Molthan, for his enthusiastic participation. A special shout-out goes to Si Casa for the delicious taco bar and Weekend Beer Company for providing refreshing beverages. Your support is invaluable and greatly appreciated

In July, we will host a Panel Discussion at the Hivve on the topic “AI in Small Business.” For more information, please refer to the Chamber Community Calendar. To learn more about the Young Professionals Network or explore sponsorship opportunities, contact Christie Swafford at cswafford@grantspasschamber.org. We encourage everyone to follow us on social media and sign up for text alerts by texting GPYPN to 38316.

To learn more about the Young Professionals Network or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to Christie Swafford at the Chamber. We encourage you to follow us on social media and sign up for text alerts by texting GPYPN to 38316.

AirMedCare Network / REACH

Barrett Business Services, Inc. ~ BBSI

Bill’s Glass & Windshield - Grants Pass

BUGS Northwest

Double J Electric, Inc.

Galice Resort

Gates Home Furnishings

Grange Co-op

Grants Pass Power Equipment, LLC

Highland House Nursing & Rehab Center

Holiday Inn Express

Horizon Commercial Realty Group, KW Commercial

Keller Williams Southern Oregon

Hunter Communications, Inc.

JL Insurance, LLC

Joy with Youngevity

LED Concepts USA

Orange Torpedo Trips

Out ‘N’ About Treehouse & Zipline

Revolution Benefits Group

Rogue Birth Center LLC

RPM Diesel

Soroptimist International River Valley

Super 8 Grants Pass

Team Senior Referral Services

The Salvation Army Grants Pass Corps

True South Solar

Women’s Crisis Support Team

WorkSource Rogue Valley

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

Ribbon Cuttings ~ Grocery Outlet (11th) 12 PM ; Perez Kitchen (11th) 3:00 PM

Concerts In the Park, at Riverside Park ~ July 8th & 15th

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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce Newsletter: July 2025 by Grants Pass & JoCo Chamber of Commerce - Issuu