We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
Volume 102 • Issue 1223 • November 2026
Business Connectorfor for
Strategic Growth
COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITY
Strategic Growth
Member Focus: Tap Walk - Sharing Office a Brew Among Friends We support and promote our Tech local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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M
he Rive r sT It’
An Investment in Your Business and Our Community!
e at m
Chamber Membership
It’s The C li
®
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, healthcare 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
Terry Hopkins President/CEO
Christie Swafford Wendy Mintey Nikki Rochholz Programs & Events
Membership & Business Development
Regional Workforce Coordinator
Colt Foster
Accounting Contractor
Lowell Gibson- NiceBadge
CHAIR/Donnie Garnett - Evergreen
Patrick Sharp - Asante Kaila Reinhart - RE/Max Kate Lasky - Josephine Comm. Libraries
Federal Bank
CHAIR ELECT/ Meghan Boehm - SO Aspire
David Koehler - RCC Brian Bouteller - Gospel Rescue Mission
VICE CHAIR/ Mark Stutzman - Farmer’s Building Supply
Nathan Miller - Rentec Direct
TREASURER/ Terri Wiley - Evergreen
Kevin Gill - Clouser Drilling Co.
Federal Bank
PAST CHAIR/ Alan Meyer - Pacific Power
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Kelsy Ausland - Ausland Group
Office Assistant
Cat Bonney
Graphics Contractor
Chamber Foundation
Board of Directors
Executive Board of Directors
Shirley Liska
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, Stiles Sign Painting Steve Roe - Director, Roe Motors
Kelsey Yoho - Yoho Holdings 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.
Sponsored By: This Month on Chamber Chatter:
• Applegate Valley Vintners Association • Gallop n’ Glitz • • Caveman Kiwanis • Happy Thanksgiving •
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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Looking Ahead: A Stronger Voice for Business
As we enter November, we find ourselves at an important crossroads for our community and our state. Election season has brought meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing our region. Through our Chamber-hosted Candidate Forums, we provided an opportunity for residents and business leaders to hear directly from those seeking public office. This publication has been in the works for several weeks, so by the time it reaches your hands, the election results will be known. We look forward to sharing a full election recap with you in a future communication. What matters most right now is our commitment to building a stronger business community, today and every day, no matter who holds office. Looking ahead, Oregon’s 2027 Legislative Session promises to bring significant decisions that will shape our economic future. Oregon Business & Industry recently released its Oregon Competitiveness Agenda, emphasizing economic development, affordability, regulatory reform, and sustainable tax policies. These priorities reflect concerns we hear regularly from local employers: rising operating costs, workforce challenges, increasing regulations, and the need for an environment where businesses can confidently invest and grow. Through our partnerships with Oregon Business & Industry and the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce, your Chamber will continue advocating for policies that strengthen our economy while ensuring the voices of Southern Oregon businesses are heard in Salem. But advocacy is about more than legislation. It is about creating an environment where entrepreneurs can succeed, employers can create meaningful jobs, and families can thrive. Whether through workforce development, business resources, leadership programs, or community partnerships, our commitment extends well beyond the halls of government. As we approach the end of another year, I remain optimistic about what we can accomplish together. Our community’s greatest strength has always been the people and businesses willing to invest their time, resources, and energy into making Josephine County a better place. The challenges ahead are real, but so are the opportunities. Together, we can help shape an economy that works for our businesses, our workforce, and the generations that follow.
Terry Hopkins
President & CEO, Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce
541-956-4100 thopkins@grantspasschamber.org
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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Be involved with your Business Community Wednesdays ~ Starts at 8:00 am • Doors Open @ 7:45 for Networking
November 2026
Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00
Nov 4th WCST
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Drive
Nov 11th No Greeters Veterans Day
Nov 18th
City of Grants Pass
City Council Chambers ~ 101 NW A Street
Our Mission is to support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy, and partnerships! Membership Info: 541-956-4102
Nov 25th
Chamber “Grateful for Greeters” Celebration The Hivve ~ 164 SE G Street
Greeters is a powerful networking group where you can interact with an average of 85 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!
STORAGE ISN’T JUST ABOUT THE PRICE . . . It’s About Access Accessibility Convenience Features & Benefits Friendly Customer Service Safety Storage Space Types
2450 NW Vine Street ❖ Grants Pass, OR 97526 ❖ 541.507.1960 https://www.cascadestoragegrantspass.com
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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
November 2026
Dorian Laflamme Rat Rod Rukkus
Dorian Laflamme, Rat Rod Rukkus Doug Bradley, Co-Emcee, Kensington Investment Group Terri Wiley, Co-Emcee, Evergreen Federal Bank
ts shmen g e r f e r in h us wit ll be attend s p l e It h u wi w if yo o n k to
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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Learning with The Library Library Resources to help Grow your Business! New Library Resource: Newsbank Access newspapers from every corner of Oregon with a library card. Explore more than 60 trusted news sources from across the state — from The Register-Guard (Eugene) and The Bulletin (Bend) to the Statesman Journal (Salem) and Rogue Valley Times (southern Oregon). Search current and archived issues with full-color pages, full-text articles, and online-only content. Available anytime, anywhere, on any device. To learn more and explore, visit: josephinelibrary.org/catalog/magazines-and-newspapers.
Building a business in the community? Us too. Call us to see how Banner’s business solutions can help your business thrive. Grants Pass North 541-956-6450 bannerbank.com
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Grants Pass South 541-955-4589 Member FDIC
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Started in 1994, AllCare Independent Physician & Provider Association (IPPA) 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 IPPA. Changing healthcare to work for you. AllCareHealth.com/IPPA
Welcome
Cassie Sellers, MSN, CPNP Cassie is from St. Petersburg, Florida, and brings six years of pediatric nursing experience to our practice. She began her career as a Registered Nurse in pediatric critical care at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, where she cared for children with complex and critical medical needs. She later worked as a travel nurse, gaining valuable experience in several pediatric Level I trauma centers. Passionate about caring for children and supporting families, Cassie earned her Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Pediatric Primary Care from University of South Alabama in 2025. Working in pediatric primary care has long been her professional goal, and she is excited to serve children and families in the community.
Siskiyou Pediatric Clinic LLP
New Patients Welcome! Call today for an appointment!
(541) 955-5683 We are proud to be one of Oregon’s highest ranked Patient Centered Primary Care Homes.
700 SW Ramsey Ave, Suite 204 | Grants Pass, OR 97527 | SiskiyouPediatricClinic.com
Care Central same day care has moved! Open to AllCare Medical Group patients. Medical Group
Now located at 1585 NW Washington Blvd., inside the AllCare Medical Group Douglas Clinic. Schedule online at allcarehealth.com/carecentral
care central (541) 476-7000 Fast • Compassionate • Comprehensive Care We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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“Safer & Happier Driving” For Precision Alignment & Brakes SuperSteer® Steering & Suspension Kits Roadmaster Suspension Kits Tow Braking Systems 417 SW Henderson Lane - Grants Pass, OR 97527 Ph: 541-479-2882 or 800-245-8309 www.hendersonslineup.com www.supersteersuperstop.com
Monty, Grateful patient, Brookings, Ore.
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/
233 NE B Street. Grants Pass, OR 97526 | 541-474-1040 | wicksemmett.com
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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Big Things Come From Small Places: Grants Pass Earns 2 National Lemonade Day Honors
Chamber receives National Community Spirit Award while local youth entrepreneur Rowen Rhodes earns national recognition. rants Pass has always been Recognizing One of Our Own special, now the country agrees! On October 14, the At 13, Rowen Rhodes proves enGrants Pass & Josephine County trepreneurship and philanthropy Chamber of Commerce accepted can go hand in hand. She founded Lemonade Day National’s Comnon-profit, Rowen’s Wish, which has munity Spirit Award at Gallup supported families during the holheadquarters in Omaha, NE. Rowen idays, the local animal shelter, and Rhodes, 13, was also named to the covered sports fees for 25 local stuinaugural class of Lemonade Day dent athletes. From Lemonade Day National Youth Ambassadors. profits, she chose to donate part of her earnings to local orgs and plans to reinvest the rest.
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A Community That Makes It Possible This honor belongs to the entire community. Peak Credit Union, our Title Sponsor, along with others, invested in future business leaders. We would like to thank the host businesses, judges, mentors, volunteers The award honors the community that best unites people behind youth entrepreneurship & Grants Pass earned it. On August 8, over 300 young entrepreneurs turned out to run stands, supported by over 100 volunteers; as mentors, judges and host locations. The community of GP showed up in force to support the young purveyors. Ken Di Raimondo, Lemonade Day’s Pacific Northwest Regional Director, said: “The Chamber’s visionary leadership paired with this community’s generosity, commitment, and support make it one of the strongest pound-for-pound programs in the country.”
launched Dutch Bros Coffee from a Grants Pass pushcart in 1992. Who knows what the next generation will build?
and families. City Director Wendy Mintey earns special recognition for the leadership that brought this honor home. Small Town. Big Possibilities.
Chamber President and CEO Terry Hopkins said: “Grants Pass is proof that the size of your community doesn’t determine the size of your opportunity. This recognition reflects a community that understands the importance of investing in its next generation. We’re helping young people discover that they have the ability to turn an idea into something extraordinary.”
Big ideas have always come from small places here. Two brothers We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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OFFICE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. We're Here to Knock Your Socks Off! There are plenty of companies that sell copiers, printers, and office equipment. But how many show up at your door with a pair of socks and a promise to knock them off? At Office Technologies, Inc., that's exactly how they do business! Owners John and Angie Mytinger built their locally owned company around a simple belief: exceptional customer service should be more than a promise; it should be an experience. With more than 50 years of combined industry experience, they saw an opportunity to bring something different to Southern Oregon's business community—a company where relationships matter, customers are more than account numbers, and outstanding service is part of the culture. That vision inspired their now-famous "Knock Your Socks Off" customer service experience. When visiting a prospective customer, Office Tech representatives arrive with an unexpected gift: a pair of socks! It's a fun introduction, but it represents a much bigger commitment to exceeding expectations and making every customer feel valued. And they back it up with their Office Tech Promise: when an urgent service need arises, customers can expect a returned call within one hour, and an Office Tech team member at their place of business within four hours. Because when office equipment stops working, business shouldn't have to stop with it! As Southern Oregon's only locally owned and operated company specializing in copiers, printers, mailing systems, and document management solutions, Office Tech combines trusted brands with personalized service and solutions tailored to each customer's needs. But their commitment to the community goes beyond office equipment; through their heartwarming Cozy Toes Project, the Office Tech team has donated thousands of pairs of socks to local nonprofit organizations serving people in need. What began as a playful expression of their customer service philosophy has grown into a meaningful way to spread warmth and kindness throughout the community. For John and Angie, being locally owned means being part of the community, building lasting relationships, supporting local organizations, and taking personal pride in their customers' success. At the heart of Office Tech is a team that genuinely cares about helping local businesses keep moving forward. In an industry filled with metal, plastic, and technology, Office Tech has found a way to make business a little more personal, a little more memorable, and a whole lot warmer. Because at Office Tech, knocking your socks off isn't just a catchy saying. It's the way they do business!
OFFICE TECH INC. •1912 United Way, Medford • (541) 773-2015 • officetechinc.com 10
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Standing Where Explorers Stood
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ome weeks remind you why you do this work. This one brought new friends and, maybe, a glimpse of an old one: the legendary ghost fondly named Elizabeth. We hosted four private groups, with a “SneakPeak” of the Oregon Caves and a full tour of the Historic Chateau as it is still under restoration. Guests included tourism and wayfinding volunteers, City committee members, civic volunteers, City Council members, government representatives and supporting-organization board members. We wanted them to see how far we’ve come, how much is left to do, and why this work matters to our community and region. A few took the candlelight tour, traversing 110 stairs to the darkest dark, 195 feet underground. I peeked at napping bats, heard the River Styx become Cave Creek at the main entrance, and marveled at an ever-changing subterranean world of our Cave. Walter Burch, a visionary explorer, knew the Cave would inspire and delight visitors if developed and protected. Ironically, he used graffiti to stop graffiti, writing a misspelled message, “Do Not Destrry” on the wall. Minerals laminated his words to the marble as a timeless message of caution.
As the season closes, I’m thankful for the Antiquities Act of 1906, President Taft’s 1909 proclamation, the National Park Service, Friends of the Oregon Caves & Chateau, and all who’ve given energy and support. Because of you, I can stand where explorers stood. Thank you for protecting it for me, really for all of us. We’re resolved to keep protecting the Monument and to see the Chateau fully restored. With your help, we will, so future generations feel the same wonder. You can follow the progress of the Historic Chateau restoration and the tales from the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve by signing up for news at:
http://newsletter.friendsocac.org. ~ Respectfully, Cat Bonney
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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Advocacy Alert: Oregon’s Business Climate at a Crossroads As Oregon prepares for the 2027 Legislative Session, mounting concerns about the state’s economic competitiveness are drawing attention from business leaders and policymakers. The numbers tell a concerning story. Oregon has fallen from 17th nationally in CNBC’s 2017 Best States for Business rankings to 42nd in 2026. The Tax Foundation now places Oregon 35th overall for tax competitiveness and 49th for corporate taxation. Meanwhile, Oregon’s economy grew just 1% in 2025, less than half the national rate. In September, Oregon Business & Industry (OBI) released its 2027–28 Oregon Competitiveness Agenda, calling for economic development, regulatory reform, improved affordability, and sustainable tax policies. The Oregon State Chamber of Commerce continues emphasizing policies that encourage business investment and job creation across our local communities. Even Governor Kotek’s Prosperity Council has acknowledged the urgency. Its June report recommends meaningful changes to Oregon’s tax structure, permitting processes, regulatory environment, and workforce development strategies. Budget pressures will further complicate the upcoming session. Although Oregon’s August revenue forecast improved slightly, rising costs and competing demands for public services will challenge lawmakers as they establish the 2027–29 budget. One of our Chamber’s key legislative priorities will be supporting meaningful reforms to Oregon’s Corporate Activity Tax (CAT). Unlike traditional income taxes, the CAT is based on commercial activity rather than profitability. Businesses can face tax obligations even when operating on narrow margins or experiencing losses. Reforms that reduce compliance burdens and address the tax’s disproportionate impact on smaller businesses deserve serious consideration. Through our partnerships with OBI and the Oregon State Chamber, we will closely monitor proposed legislation and work to ensure Southern Oregon’s business community has a voice in these discussions. Oregon’s long-term prosperity depends on a healthy private sector capable of investing, creating jobs, and supporting the communities we call home.
Visit Us Today!
“Serving Our Neighbors, Committed to Excellence”
Family Owned and Operated
509 SE 7th Street, Grants Pass 14
541-479-5335 • www.sosanitation.com
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Cartwright’s on the Rogue 971 SE 6th Street
Grants Pass Painting 2001 Foothill Blvd B1
The Way Pottery & Art Studio 413 SE 6th Street
Owl Plaza 5th & H Streets
Thread & Hen 409 SE 6th Street
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members Rogue Valley Outreach Center Oregon Josephine County Treasury & Tax Address: 500 NW 6th St. Dept. 14 SBDC Network
Address: 143 SW G St. Ste. 101 Primary Phone: 541-237-1594 Primary Rep: Karen Ramorino Email: kramorino@oregonsbdc.org Website: https://oregonsbdc.org/center/Rogue-Valley/ Categories: Government, Education & Agencies Description:
The Oregon Small Business Development Center Network provides advising, training, online courses and resources for businesses throughout our state. Our conveniently located Centers assist business people like you in every aspect of business development and management.
Grants Pass Painting
Address: 2001 NE Foothill Blvd. Unit B-1 Primary Phone: 541-955-8888 Primary Rep: Stephen Edwards Email: admin@grantspasspaint.com Website: https://grantspasspainting.com/ Categories: Contractors, Equipment, Materials Description: Family owned and operated painting company; we believe that although the finished product is extremely important, the manner in which it is delivered is equally, and in some cases, more important. Our goal is to provide an exceptional customer experience from start to finish and our team has impressed me with their ability to do this time and time again. I’m thankful that I get to work with great people and try to never take that for granted. We are here to serve you with integrity, professionalism, clear communication, and attention to detail.
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Primary Phone: 541-474-5175 Primary Rep: Dustin Calvo Email: dcalvo@josephinecounty.gov Website: https://www.josephinecounty.gov/government/treasury___ tax/index.php
Categories: Government, Education & Agencies Description: The Treasurer of Josephine County administers a successful treasury program for all taxing entities in Josephine County, including Josephine County government. Emphasis is on protection of principal, liquidity and maximum investment returns. The Treasury Division acts as the county bank and is responsible for the collection, distribution and investment of monies for all Josephine County Funds, trust and agency funds, including taxing district funds. The treasurer in their capacity as the county tax collector respectfully and effectively administer a successful tax collection program for Josephine County following Oregon law and, within those constraints, always choosing the action that best benefits the taxing districts and the taxpayers with emphasis on helping taxpayers avoid foreclosure.
Providers International
Primary Phone: 626-429-4006 Primary Rep: Lindsey Marlatt Email: lmarlatt@providers-international.com Website: https://providers-international.com/ Categories: Business & Professional Services Description: Providers International is a member of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals, American Society of Industrial Security, Executive Security International, and International Organization of Black Security Professionals. Providers International excels at security services for your business or personal protection. Our security services include armed guards, executive protection, private investigation, process servers, corporate training, site security and asset management.
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members Colonial Life
Address: Grants Pass, OR Primary Phone: 541-933-0153 Primary Rep: Rebecca Zolkoske Email: rebecca.zolkoske@coloniallifesales.com Website: https://www.coloniallife.com/individuals Categories: Finance & Insurance Description: Protection for when the unexpected happens Voluntary benefits from Colonial Life At Colonial Life, we’re here to provide peace of mind and protect your lifestyle when life throws unexpected challenges your way. Offered through your employer, our voluntary benefits help protect your income and provide financial security for you and your family.
Rogue Recovery Center
Address: 550 SW 6tyh St. Ste F Primary Phone: 541-659-2438 Primary Rep: Amanda Ireland-Esquivel Email: amanda.esquivel@truecolorsrecovery.org Website: https://www.roguerecoverycenter.org/ Categories: Personal Services & Care Description: Rogue Recovery Center, a program of True Colors Recovery, is dedicated to providing inclusive, accessible support for all adults in Josephine County facing substance use challenges.
2027 Board Slate Renewing Terms: Kelsey Yoho, Yoho Solutions Terri Wiley, Evergreen Federal Brian Bouteller, Gospel Rescue Mission Kevin Gill, Clouser Drilling Vote for Incoming Board Member (replacing Nathan Miller) Jamie Cartwright, Cartwright’s Market / Cartwrights on the Rogue
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members AMSOIL Ken Beatty
Primary Phone: 541-761-3789 Primary Rep: Ken Beatty Email: kenbeatty057@gmail.com Website: https://syntheticsupermart.com/ Categories: Automotive, RV & Marine Description: Licensed local AMSOIL dealer -- AMSOIL synthetic lubricants deliver wear protection, engine cleanliness and fuel efficiency conventional oils simply can’t match. They help your vehicles run better and last longer.
Industrial Source
Address: 85 Fruitdale Dr. Primary Phone: 541-476-5486 Primary Rep: Michael Long Email: info@industrialsource.com Website: https://www.industrialsource.com/ Categories: Contractors, Equipment, Materials Description: Industrial Source has been family owned and operated since 1945. Today, we stand as Oregon’s largest independent and longest-running gas and welding supply company. Also, we now have 8 locations in Oregon that can cover all of your gas and welding supply needs. We are not just a gas and welding supplier. Our company can provide Fire Extinguisher Services, we have a line in Labeling, Packaging, and Marking (LPM), and we can supply Firefighters across the nation with apparel and equipment. Please reach out to us at 1-800-586-5412 to learn more about all of our brands.
Central Eyes Optometry
Address: 1891 NE 7th St. Primary Phone: 541-237-0030 Primary Rep: April Napier Email: claritywindows541@gmail.com Website: https://centraleyesoptometry.com/ Categories: Personal Services & Care Description: Our team at Central Eyes Optometry understands the complexities of eye health because we’ve experienced them firsthand. We’re passionate about helping others care for their eyes and support all of your family’s eye health needs, from comprehensive eye exams to children’s myopia management. Our practice is centered around constantly improving and learning, so we can go above and beyond for our patients. We use modern technology to diagnose and treat conditions like dry eye and help rejuvenate the skin around your eyes. We are here to be your family’s partner in all things eye health. Schedule an appointment with us today!
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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Exclusive Health Benefits for Grants Pass Business Community
Member Benefits What’s Available
Medical, dental, vision, virtual care, direct primary care, and more.
Who Qualifies
Grants Pass members with 2+ employees. Owners Count.
Chamber Health Benefits Program The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce is proud to offer members access to a new group benefits program designed to help local businesses find more affordable, dependable, and flexible medical and primary care resources. Whether you are a small business trying to offer benefits for the first time or a growing employer looking for better options, this program may help you stay competitive while managing health insurance costs. Chamber members with two or more employees may qualify, and owners count as one. Learn more at: https://www.planstin.com/grants-pass-chamber
Details
No underwriting required. Rates locked for 12 months.
How to get started
Call or make an appointment with your Planstin + Grants Pass advisor, Joel Daniels.
Book a meeting Joel Daniels Advisor — 541.800.2092 jd@mybenefitsrevolution.com
https://www.planstin.com/ grants-pass-chamber
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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November Regional Workforce Newsletter The first quarter was an exciting start to building stronger workforce connections throughout Josephine County! As the Regional Workforce Coordinator with the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce and Rogue Workforce Partnership, my focus has been on connecting with local employers, education partners, and community organizations to better understand workforce needs and identify opportunities. I’m excited to share that I’ve made 307 meaningful employer contacts during the first quarter, connecting with businesses, learning about their hiring challenges, and introducing resources like Rogue Business Elevate, On-the-Job Training, Incumbent Worker Training and Internship possibilities. One of the most rewarding parts of this work has been helping turn connections into opportunities. Through Chamber relationships and employer engagement, seven job placements have already been facilitated, with two potential internship opportunities currently in development. I’ve also enjoyed building relationships with our local schools and education partners, participating in career readiness activities, and sharing workforce resources with our Young Professionals Network. There is still plenty of work ahead, but the momentum is encouraging! Every conversation and connection helps strengthen our local workforce. I’m looking forward to continuing to work alongside our businesses and community partners to help Josephine County employers and job seekers succeed.
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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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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.
In October, our Young Professionals Network was fortunate to welcome the Chamber’s newest team member, Nikki Rochholz, as our guest speaker. Nikki serves as the Regional Workforce Coordinator, a position created through a collaboration between the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce and Rogue Workforce Partnership (RWP). With an extensive background in HR, Nikki is a natural fit for this role. She advocates for local employers while helping connect qualified candidates with meaningful employment opportunities. As a workforce connector, she also works closely with local school districts and youth to help prepare the next generation for success in the workforce. Nikki’s focus includes recruitment, hiring, training, employee retention, and developing internship opportunities for individuals ages 16 and older. She also brings valuable knowledge of available funding for extended training and certifications, helping employers invest in their workforce while supporting individuals as they build their skills and careers. Through these efforts, Nikki is committed to strengthening our local talent pool, supporting sustainable business growth, and contributing to a stronger local economy. As part of the Chamber, we are proud to offer Nikki’s expertise and services to our business community. There is no cost to work with Nikki, and there is no sales pitch—just a genuine partnership focused on connecting people with opportunities and helping local businesses succeed. Whether you are an employer looking for qualified employees or an individual exploring new career opportunities, Nikki is here to help! Connect with Nikki: email ncrochholz@grantspasschamber.org or call 541-244-1900. Stop by the Chamber or reach out to learn how Nikki can help connect you with your next opportunity! Lastly, we would like to extend a heartfelt congratulations to Shelley Oaks, the recipient of YPN’s $750 scholarship toward the Rogue Leadership Program! We are proud to support Shelley’s professional growth and leadership journey and look forward to seeing the positive impact she will make in our community. Congratulations, Shelley!
For the month of November, we will have two opportunities to connect; the Adopt-a-Street Quarterly Trash Cleanup and the Holiday Kickoff hosted at The Way Pottery Studio. Check the Chamber Community Calendar for details. To learn more about the YPN or explore sponsorship opportunities, contact Christie Swafford at cswafford@ grantspasschamber.org. To keep up to date on YPN activities, follow us on social media and sign up for text alerts by texting GPYPN to 38316. Thank you to our sponsors, your contributions allow us to continue to offer quality events with relevant content all at no cost to attendees.
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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Aviega LLC
New Life Transformations Pints N Wine Pourhouse Solista Grants Pass Elev8 Mortgage, LLC Eric’s Tree Service LLC DB Pro Audio Mock’s Ford Sales Inc. Thread & Hen Silver Pages WaFd Bank - City Centre Branch The Perfect Bite Appliance & Mower Center Hull & Hull Funeral Directors Compassionate Dentistry US Bank Mid Rogue Imaging Center Alzheimer’s Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter Southern Oregon University Fox 26 Broadcasting Communications The Wonder Bur 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 and Celebrations in the Community: Hillcrest Village - Wednesday, November 11th 3:00 PM - 952 Hillcrest Drive Business After Hours: Thursday, Nov 12th, Hosted by ROC at 564 SW Foundry St, 5:30 - 7:00 PM
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
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With your help, The Salvation Army in Josephine County provides gifts for approx. 300 children each year! To sponsor an “Angel” this Christmas, pick an Angel Tree Tag from the Tree at locations around the community like Fred Meyer, Grants Pass Toyota, Banner Bank, Washington Federal Bank or Walmart. Purchase 2-3 gifts from the wish list provided by the family. Deadline to return gifts is December 4th. Return the NEW, UNWRAPPED gifts to
The Salvation Army Family Services Office 1377 Redwood Avenue, Grants Pass
The Angels and their families thank you with hugs and tears of joy!
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GIVE HOPE
THIS CHRISTMAS
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org