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.
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
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
By Marisol Rubi Madrigal
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
