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
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: • Art Along the Rogue • Project Youth+• Chao Saigon • • Asante Family House • Dollar Mnt Grand Opening
& 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
Business Voices Matter:
Why the Chamber’s Business Survey is Critical
At the heart of every thriving community is a network of resilient, determined, and passionate businesses. From the small family-owned shop on the corner to the manufacturers providing jobs for hundreds, businesses are the backbone of Grants Pass and Josephine County. Yet too often, their voices go unheard when it comes to shaping the future of our local economy.
That’s where the Chamber’s Business Retention & Expansion Committee steps in and why our Business Survey is so important.
This isn’t just another survey that ends up on a shelf. It’s a confidential, one-on-one opportunity for business owners and managers to sit down and share what’s working, what’s not, and what’s needed to succeed. The results directly guide the Chamber’s work in advocacy, resources, training, and partnerships ensuring that your experiences and challenges turn into real action for a stronger business climate.
When you participate, you are doing more than answering questions-you are giving your business, your employees, and your industry a voice in the decisions that shape our community. No other organization provides this platform in quite the same way. The Chamber is uniquely positioned to connect businesses with one another, link you to resources and training, and advocate on your behalf at the local and state level.
This survey is truly an incredible opportunity to make sure your story is heard. Together, we can identify the barriers holding businesses back, shine a light on opportunities for growth, and ensure that leaders and policymakers understand the needs of the people who are driving our economy every day.
So when you receive a call or visit from our team, please say yes. Share openly. Add your voice to the collective chorus of businesses who are shaping the future of Josephine County.
Because when businesses speak through the Chamber, our community listens and that’s how we grow stronger 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
October 2025
Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00
Oct 1st
Colonial Life - Rebecca Zolkoske & Assoc.
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
Oct 8th
Cascades of Grants Pass 1357 Redwood Circle
Oct 15th
Bristol Hospice
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
Oct 22nd
Farmer’s Building Supply
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
Oct 29th
Project Youth+
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
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!
October 2025
Joe Walter
Aviega LLC
Emcee- Terri Wiley, Evergreen Federal Bank
Joe Walter, Aviega LLC
Emcee- Mark Stutzman, Farmer’s Building Supply
Learning with The Library Library Resources to help
Declaration 250 with Lois MacMillan
Join former Oregon History Teacher of the Year Lois MacMillan for Declaration 250, a monthly program exploring a different topic each session related to the history and ideals of the Declaration of Independence. Each program features primary sources from the Gilder Lehrman Institute’s panel exhibit, Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy, which will be on display throughout 2026 in Josephine County.
Grow your Business!
Programs are held the first Thursday of each month, 5:30–6:30 pm, at the Grants Pass branch unless otherwise noted. Free and open to all — no library card or registration needed. To view the full program schedule, visit josephinelibrary.org/calendar/declaration-250-grants-pass/all.
Grants Pass Program Schedule:
Thursday, October 2 | 5:30–6:30 pm – The Origins of the Civil Rights Movement
Thursday, November 6 | 5:30–6:30 pm – The Idea of Independence Spreads Internationally
Illinois Valley Program Schedule:
Thursday, October 4 | 11:30 am–12:30 pm
– The Origins of the Civil Rights Movement
Safer & Happier Driving”
Monty, Grateful patient, Brookings, Ore.
Soroptimist International River Valley
Soroptimist International River Valley (Grants Pass) was chartered in 2000 and joined the Chamber of Commerce shortly thereafter.
As a non-profit, service organization, Soroptimist’s mission is to give women and girls the tools, training and education they need to reach economic empowerment. To further this mission, Soroptimist each year provides funding for three scholarships at Rogue Community College. We also give three Live Your Dream Awards. These cash awards are a unique Soroptimist program to help women continue their education.
We also work with two other organizations to host Girls Rock! each year. This free program allows girls aged 9-13 to explore STEM workshops with hands-on activities.
To fund these programs, Soroptimist hosts various fundraisers. One fundraiser we’ve been a part of since the beginning of this club, and continue today (25 years later!), is the Chamber’s Concerts in the Park. One of our favorites!
Our service projects to the community are varied and many, and it’s impossible to list them all. One that we’re very proud of is the Soroptimist Baby Shower which we’ve hosted for 16 years and have collected more than 10,000 baby items for low-income families with children from birth to 5 years of age.
Our latest project “Bras For A Cause” (October 25th), is a fundraiser to support women as they go through cancer treatments. Funds raised will support Grants Pass Family House, Asante Cancer Compassion Fund and other local Soroptimist philanthropies.
Soroptimists believe that every woman and her family deserve to live in a clean, safe and healthy environment with every opportunity to succeed. Our mission is to make that belief a reality.
Build your community with the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)!
Earn $1,500-$9,600 for new hires in qualifying categories:
Certain Veterans (with disabilities, SNAP recipients, or unemployed)
People with a recent felony conviction or release from prison
SNAP or TANF recipients
Long-term unemployed
Vocational Rehabilitation participants
Recent Supplemental Security Income or Ticket to Work recipients
Easy process:
Use Form 8850 during hiring
Use Form 9061 for onboarding
Submit forms within 28 days of start date
Collect certificates, submit to IRS
Don’t miss this chance to save money and help your community with WOTC!
Need more information?
Visit our website: www.OregonTaxCredit.org Need
Boosting Employment Opportunities While Protecting Businesses
Get fidelity bonds to securely provide essential opportunities to:
Individuals involved with the justice system
Those in recovery from substance abuse
Youth & adults lacking work history
TANF recipients
Individuals with poor credit record (if relevant for the job)
Dishonorably discharged military personnel
Easy, free coverage!
Receive bond coverage of $5,000-$25,000 for the first 6 months (new hires only).
Protection against theft, forgery, larceny, and embezzlement.
Just answer a few questions on our online form before the job start date – that’s all!
For more information, visit our website:
https://bonds4jobs oregon gov/ Or, scan the QR code and submit the form to request a bond!
Need More Information?
Contact Kate James, Federal Bonding Program Coordinator: 9 971-375-3660, kathleen w ames@employ.oregon.gov
It’s time for your voice to be heard.
The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce is conducting their Business Retention & Expansion survey, and we want to include you.
Sign up for a confidential, 1-hour in-person business survey and tell local leaders what’s really happening for businesses like yours.
Your feedback will directly shape the future of economic development in Josephine County.
Reserve your confidential spot today.
Why a BR&E Survey?
The overarching purpose of the Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) Survey is to understand our community’s business climate and to foster an environment where businesses are encouraged to stay, succeed, and grow.
A Proven Track Record
Started in 1996 – The first BR&E survey was conducted in 1999 and has been completed every three years since. This year marks the 7th survey – Each round has delivered real, measurable results.
Community Impact
The very first survey inspired the development of the Spalding Industrial Park. Most recently, surveys highlighted the urgent need for workforce retention & development, sparking the launch of the upcoming Rogue Leadership Training Experience.
Objectives -- The survey is designed to:
• Demonstrate Support – Show businesses that the community values their presence and contributions.
• Identify & Solve Problems – Pinpoint barriers such as workforce shortages, supply chain issues, or regulatory challenges.
• Gauge Future Plans – Learn about businesses’ intentions to expand, relocate, or close, so we can respond proactively.
• Develop a Strategic Plan – Use aggregated survey data to create targeted, data-driven initiatives for economic growth.
• Facilitate Connections – Link businesses to resources, incentives, and assistance programs from local, state, and federal partners.
• Enhance Business Intelligence – Gather direct insights from business leaders to guide effective advocacy and development efforts.
How the Survey Works:
• Confidential Interviews – Trained surveyors will schedule a one-hour confidential conversation.
• Actionable Results – Findings are aggregated and shared back with the community to drive solutions.
• Impactful Outcomes – Results shape Chamber advocacy, workforce initiatives, and local economic development strategies.
Why Your Participation Matters
Your voice helps shape the future of Josephine County’s economy. No one else gives businesses this direct opportunity to influence decisions that affect growth and success.
Together, we strengthen our community’s foundation: building community, strengthening business, growing the economy. Be part of the conversation. Be part of the solution. Your input today builds the economy of tomorrow.
All the Things... “Artificialis Intelligentia”
By Skyler Szijjarto, Digital Intern, Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber
Over the past month I’ve been building a Chamber-branded AI onboarding avatar that’s on track for internal testing later this fall. Once live, the guide will greet new and prospective members around the clock, answer first-week questions, and point them to the right events and resources; letting staff spend more time on relationship-building and community projects in line with our mission.
I’m also now beginning work on tying our systems together and creating artificial intelligence “agents” with n8n automation. In a future phase, these workflows could pull a new member’s data, generate a personalized welcome video via Heygen, and schedule follow-up reminders automatically. My early test runs suggest the process can reclaim several staff hours each week and give newcomers a smoother first impression.
I’m eager to deepen my experience with workflow automation and advanced AI content tools. If you’ve worked with n8n, Heygen, or similar platforms, or if your organization could use help streamlining a repetitive process, please let me know. Collaborating on real use cases will sharpen my knowledge and help bring added value to the Chamber community.
"Vida
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
Family Resource Center
Grants Pass Downs & Speedy
Applebee’s & IHop
Southern Oregon School of Music
In this issue we’re excited to update you on our latest projects and programs and connect with our donors, volunteers, and community partners. Your support has made all the difference in our efforts to improve the housing crisis and the health of our community. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier community.
Today we’re highlighting our newest project, Hillcrest Veteran’s Village. The village will be 36 new apartments set aside for low-income veterans, designed to allow aging in place.
Now that most of the site excavation is complete, the underground utilities will soon be installed-Thanks to the great job by Copeland Paving!
This phase will be followed by the most important part of any project, life, business or adventure –good foundations. After building a solid foundation and 14 months of effort we will be finished and looking for veteran tenants.
At this point, we need your help to get over the finish line in building the village, so please consider making a donation to Mid Rogue--- https://www.zeffy. com/en-US/donation-form/sup
port-mid-rogue-foundation -or sponsor a tree onsite in the name of a veteran or military unit that’s special to you -- https:// www.midroguefoundation.net/ veterans-village-hillcrest
In line with this building work, Mid Rogue Foundation is part of an effort in Grants Pass to help create a new construction training program at the local high school. We will be bringing student interns on to the Hillcrest Veterans Village job site to get practical experience on an active construction site -- Nothing beats hands-on experience!
We will be highlighting, promoting and giving experience of the various jobs, skills, and work that is experienced in the construction industry. Construction work force development is one of the important puzzle pieces needed
to get out of this housing crisis. It’s important to encourage young people to consider having a career in construction. It pays well and , beyond the basics, requires less secondary schooling.
Please connect with us through our social media channels, signup for our newsletter at Update.MidRogueFoundation.org or consider donating to our efforts in the community online, or through our mailing address - Anyway you connect contributes to our efforts to care for our community.
Again, we are grateful for your ongoing support. Together, with Mid Rogue Foundation, you can see our work is making a real difference in our community. And together, we can continue to build a stronger, healthier community for everyone.
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
Oregon State University Extension
Josephine County
Address: 574 NE E Street, Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 241-3050
Primary Contact: Clay Guetling
Email: clay.guetling@oregonstate.edu
Website: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/josephine
Category: Outdoor Education
Description:
Oregon State University Extension – Josephine County works with our communities throughout Josephine County to support lifelong learning and co-create innovative solutions to address local challenges.
Rozeray Throen Entertainment
Address: Grants Pass
Phone: (458) 212-1881
Primary Contact: Jacob Alva-Melville
Email: rozeray.throen.music@gmail.com
Website: https://www.facebook.com/the.rozeray.throen/
Category: DJ & Entertainment
Description:
Music is regarded as a cultural universal; an element, pattern, trait, or institution that is common to all known human cultures worldwide. At Rozeray Throen Entertainment it’s not just a playlist, it’s an experience. That experience is a meticulously curated music selection and lively MC services to take your upcoming celebration to the next level. Dare to Dance.
Thread & Hen
Address: 409 SE 6th Street
Phone: (541) 291-7265
Primary Contact: Kimberly Tressler
Email: threadandhen@gmail.com
Website: http://www.threadandhen.com
Category: Quilting Supplies Fabric and More
Description:
Thread & Hen was imagined from years of crafting with family and friends. Our weekly Craft Nights were a place to gather, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company. Learning the art from my mother-in-law Donna, quilting has always had a special place in my heart. We dedicate this space in her honor in the hope that you too will find and experience the joy as I did, sitting around our dining table making new friends and happy memories.
Winterview Estates
Address: 1275 Rogue River Hwy #2039, G
Phone: (541) 450-9263
Primary Contact: Beverly Ward
Email: winterviewestates@wgppm.com
Website: https://wgppm.com/community-details/winterview-estates/
Category: Property Management
Description:
Winterview Estates is an affordable and flexible living in a peaceful setting. Residents enjoy convenient access to local amenities, shopping, and outdoor recreation, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple, budget-friendly lifestyle in Southern Oregon.
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
Alzheimer’s Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter
Address: Grants Pass
Phone: (503) 416-0213
Primary Contact:
Email: chhill@alz.org
Website: http://alz.org
Category: Healthcare
Description:
The Alzheimer’s Association Oregon & SW Washington Chapter is the leading local organization fighting for longer, healthier lives by advancing Alzheimer’s and dementia research, promoting brain health, and advocating for policy change. Get support, resources and research updates through our weekly e-newsletter. Join the fight against Alzheimer’s, find local events and access our 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 for immediate assistance.
Joshua Income Management
Address: 1989 Southgate Way, Grants Pass 97527
Phone: (831) 477-9030
Primary Contact: Susie Rector
Email: expert@joshuaincome.com
Website: http://www.joshuaincome.com
Category:
Description:
At Joshua Income Management, our mission is to guide you through the complexities of retirement planning and insurance services with clarity, support and confidence. We understand every individual’s journey to retirement is unique, which is why we’re committed to providing personalized strategies tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Rita’s
Address: 121 SE 6th, Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 476-1462
Primary Contact: McKenna LaStair
Email: hello@ritasshop.com
Website: http://www.rita.shop
Category: Clothing/Footwear/Accessories & Specialty/Antiques & Gifts
Description:
“RITA’S is women’s clothing boutique focusing on boho fashion, community, and friendship. Our goal is to be a place where every single woman in our town feels comfortable, beautiful, and accepted just as they are.”
The Lonely Pine
Address: 130 SE G Street
Phone: (541) 916-6426
Primary Contact: Quinten or Penelope Buck
Email: thelonelypinenw@gmail.com
Website: http://Instagram.com/the.lonely.pine
Category: Coffee/Espresso Shops
Description:
At The Lonely Pine, our goal is to create a cozy, welcoming space where people can slow down, connect, and enjoy exceptional coffee and fresh-baked goods made with love. We’re here to be a warm part of your day—whether you’re grabbing a quick cup or settling in for a quiet moment.
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, Wild River Brewing and Si Casa
Our Young Professionals Network hosted an information-packed luncheon in September, focusing on the vital topic of Customer Service. Given the Chamber’s role in supporting and promoting local commerce through communication, advocacy, and partnerships, addressing concerns and challenges from the business community is essential. In conversations with industry leaders, one of the predominant concerns was the state of customer service post-COVID. The pandemic had a significant impact on face-to-face interactions and personal connections, particularly affecting newer groups entering the workforce.
To offer solutions, our committee diligently created a handout titled “12 Core Customer Service Skills,” which lists skills and tools to enhance business interactions. Furthermore, we assembled a well-rounded panel from various industries to share their insights. With Lawton Lesueur at the helm, our panel included: Emmanuel Flores of Si Casa Flores/ Code 4 Taphouse, Nikki Rochholz of Wild River Brewing, Skyler Smith of First Interstate Bank, Jesse Sallas of Club NW, Terry Hopkins GPCOC CEO.
The consensus among the group was that customer service begins at the door with a warm greeting and making guests feel welcome by establishing a personal connection. Other key points emphasized were:
• Making eye contact
• Meeting people where they are
• Being aware of body language
• Keeping conversations simple
• Avoiding personal views or opinions
• Navigating Challenging Situations
The panel also addressed problematic situations, offering tips on de-escalation, establishing strong rules and policies, and the importance of training and empowering staff. We delved into the age-old phrase “the customer is always right,” concluding that “they are right until they prove themselves wrong.” It was agreed that letting go of a problematic customer is preferable to losing a valuable employee.
A heartfelt thank you to Wild River Pub for hosting our group and providing a delicious lunch. If you enjoy attending our events, please consider supporting the Young Professionals Network through sponsorship. Sponsoring is an excellent way to expand your marketing footprint, and our community partners enable us to offer events at no cost. 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. This month, we will be hosting our Monthly Luncheon. Keep an eye on our Chamber Community Calendar for details and registration. We encourage everyone to follow us on social media and sign up for text alerts by texting GPYPN to 38316.
Aviega LLC
Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s Intl Realty
Chuck’s Equipment Repair
Colonial Decorators
Competitive Athletics
Dwell Street Market / Dwell Street Staging & Design
Evergreen Federal Bank - Main Branch
First American Title Company
First Community Credit Union - N
First Community Credit Union - S
Grants Pass Broadcasting Corporation
Grants Pass Clinic
Grants Pass Daily Courier
Grants Pass Museum of Art
Insurance Lounge
J.B. Steel LLC
Kelly’s Automotive Service
Meraki Transport
Midland Empire Insurance Agency of Oregon. LLC
Mock’s Ford Sales Inc.
Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
Nectar Markets, LLC
NeoLife Nutrition ~ Debbie Musack
Peak Credit Union
People’s Bank of Commerce
RealWise Property Management
Redwood Foundation for Education
Robyn Lasky Oregon Broker
@ RE/MAX Integrity
Roe Motors GM
Sheri’s Cottages LLC
Shoefly Oregon
Solid Rock Church / Cherished Footsteps Daycare
SOS Alarm
Southern Oregon Goodwill
Southern Oregon University
Star Automotive
The Glass Forge Gallery & Studio LLC
The Home Depot
The Laughing Clam
TMT Business Services, Inc.
Vista 222
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 ~ “Apothi-Crow” ~ Sat, Oct 4th, 131 SW G St , 12:00 PM; “AmeriTitle” ~ Wed, Oct 8th, 1246 NE 7th, 3:30 PM “Chao Saigon” ~ Fri, Oct 17th, 1632 Williams Hwy, 4:00 PM; “Blaze-N-Monkey’s” ~ Fri, Oct 24th, 1995 NE Vine, 12:00 PM TapWalk 2025 ~ Oct 11th, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM ; YPN Monthly Luncheon, Oct 28th 11:45 AM
or email Terry Hopkins, thopkins@grantspasschamber.org
The Rogue Leadership Training Experience is an immersive eight-month journey that develops purpose-driven leaders equipped to shape the future of Southern Oregon.
Rooted in proven models of civic and economic leadership, the program blends personal development, business strategy, and community engagement into a powerful curriculum. Through expert facilitation, collaborative projects, and strategic partnerships, participants gain the skills, confidence, and connections needed to lead with impact—whether in the boardroom, on main street, or across the public sector.
Sponsorship Opportunities are available.
For more information visit: http:RogueLeadershipTraining.com
