


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.
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
Mark Stutzman - Farmer’s Bldg Supply
Patrick Sharp - Asante
Executive
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.
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
By:
This Month on Chamber Chatter: • SORA & REX on the Rogue • Sunny Valley Campground• • Pregnancy Care Center • Directors Mortgage •
& Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
As we move into a new season, I’m reminded of the incredible truth behind this month’s theme: The Power of People. At the Chamber, we know that economic growth doesn’t begin with buildings, policies, or even businesses—it begins with people. When we invest in individuals, we build the foundation for stronger businesses, a healthier workforce, and a more vibrant community.
This summer has been a powerful example of that philosophy in action. Our Lemonade Day event brought together more than 200 young entrepreneurs who rolled up their sleeves to learn the essentials of business planning, customer service, and financial literacy. Beyond the fun of seeing colorful stands and creative recipes, the real success was watching our youth take ownership of their ideas and proudly serve their community. These are tomorrow’s business leaders, and their passion inspires us all.
That same investment in people continues with our promotion and integration of internship programs into our operations. Through these programs we aim to strengthen local career development partnerships. By connecting high school students with real-world opportunities, we are preparing them not just for jobs, but for leadership roles that will shape Southern Oregon’s future. Programs like these give our young people valuable skills, but they also help local businesses build a pipeline of talent rooted right here in Josephine County.
Looking ahead, we are excited to launch the Rogue Leadership Training Experience, a new initiative supported by the Chamber Foundation. This immersive eight-month program will equip participants with the tools to lead with vision, collaborate effectively, and make lasting contributions to both business and civic life. It’s a program designed not only to strengthen individuals, but to elevate the entire region—one leader at a time.
None of this work happens in isolation. It is only through collaboration with education systems, businesses, community partners and most importantly our members that we can continue to create opportunities for growth. And as students head back to school, I encourage all of us to remember that our greatest investment is not just in the next quarter’s numbers, but in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and community builders.
Together, let’s keep building on the power of people.
Terry Hopkins President & CEO, Grants Pass
& Josephine County Chamber of Commerce
541-956-4100 • thopkins@grantspasschamber.org
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
September 2025
Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00
Sept 3rd
Chamber Ambassadors
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
Sept 10th
Lippert’s Carpet One 1150 Rogue River Highway
Sept 17th
Department of Human Services 2101 NW Hawthorn
Sept 24th
Cascade Self Storage 2450 NW Vine Street
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/
September 2025
Emcee- Sherri Scott, Sherri Scott Real Estate
Shannon Holder, Gallop ‘n Glitz
Emcee- Mark Stutzman, Farmer’s Building Supply
One of the Chamber’s most important roles is to advocate for the needs and priorities of local businesses. Every three years, our Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) Committee conducts an in-depth, one-hour survey with businesses across Josephine County. This effort gives you a direct voice in shaping the future of our economy and ensures decision-makers hear from those who live and work here every day.
Your feedback helps us identify opportunities, address challenges, and represent you effectively at the local and state level. The BR&E survey is more than a questionnaire—it’s a powerful tool that allows the Chamber to speak with one united voice on behalf of business. If you would like your business to participate, please contact Terry Hopkins at THopkins@grantspasschamber.org
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.
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.
Lois MacMillan teaches history at Grants Pass High School and has been recognized nationally for her innovative teaching and dedication to Founding Era education.
Check the Library Calendar and the Chamber Communiy Calendar for the monthly dates of this event.
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:
Tucked away beneath wide skies and whispering pines lies Sunny Valley Campground, a place where every season feels like a new story waiting to unfold. Travelers pull in with their RVs, choosing from full or partial hook-up sites, while others pitch their tents under the stars or settle into cozy glamping cabins and charming wagons. Whether you stay for a night, a week, or a month, there’s always something to discover—especially with special weekday discounts from Sunday through Wednesday.
Families find joy in the simple things: children racing from the playground to the bounce house, laughter echoing across the pool, and dogs bounding free in the spacious dog park. The camp store, brimming with locally made treasures, offers everything from unique souvenirs to last-minute essentials.
But it’s the events that make Sunny Valley legendary. The savory aroma of the annual Rib Cook-Off draws food lovers eager to sample and compete for mouthwatering prizes, while polished chrome glistens at the summer Car Show, where winners drive away with bragging rights and awards. Autumn transforms the campground into a lively celebration with Oktoberfest, followed by three unforgettable weekends of Haunted Camping. Guests bundle up for hayrides, explore haunted trailers, fill their bags with candy during trick-or-treating, and discover more spooky fun around every corner.
The magic of these gatherings is no secret—so much so that campers now reserve their spots a year in advance. Whether you’re here to relax, celebrate, or seek adventure, Sunny Valley Campground is more than a destination—it’s a tradition, a community, and a memory you’ll want to relive again and again.
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 & Applications for Participation are now open.
For more information visit: http:RogueLeadershipTraining.com or email Terry Hopkins, thopkins@grantspasschamber.org
By Skyler Szijjarto
A year ago, if someone had told me I’d be helping a century-old Chamber of Commerce build its own AI assistant, I would’ve laughed - then jumped at the chance. Fast-forward to today; as the Chamber’s new Digital Innovation intern, I get to blend tomorrow’s tech with the hometown values Grants Pass is known for, so every member, volunteer, and visitor actually feels the difference. I hope that once my internship is over, everyone will have felt the impact.
First up on my to-do list is creating a custom AI assistant that knows our membership guides, event calendars, and legislative priorities inside out. Imagine staff getting answers in seconds instead of digging through folders, files, and old emails. That’s the kind of time-saver I’m shooting for. You may ask what the benefit of investing this much money and energy in digital tools is. I believe technology should supercharge human connection, not replace it. For example, when a café owner can find the latest health code updates that apply to their specific business and operations in one quick query, or a nonprofit volunteer creates 200 custom event flyers with a single voice command, they can spend more time interacting with the people of our community and making real impact, while leaving the computer work for the computers.
I aim to turn small wins into big momentum for everyone involved. If I can save every staff member just 10 minutes each day, that’s 60 more relationship-building hours every year.
I’m genuinely thrilled about this internship and the road ahead. Expect plenty of updates right here in Chamber Connections! I can’t wait to celebrate each milestone with you.”
On August 26th, the Chamber welcomed members and guests to the Evergreen Federal Bank Bear Hotel for our latest Peerspectives luncheon. This quarterly series is designed to give local business leaders the opportunity to hear directly from industry experts, ask questions, and walk away with actionable insights on timely issues affecting commerce in our region.
key is to begin with a mindset of “How can my business save through efficiency?” and then connect with the experts who can help guide you.
This session, “Energy Efficiency IS Business Development,” featured panelists from Pacific Power, Energy Trust of Oregon, and Metal Masters, Inc. The discussion emphasized that energy efficiency isn’t just about being environmentally conscious—it’s about saving money and strengthening your bottom line. The biggest takeaway? There are far more incentives and rebates available to businesses than most of us realize. From no-cost lighting upgrades for small businesses, to design incentives for new construction, to Pacific Power’s new Wattsmart Battery program, resources exist for projects of every size. While not everyone will be an expert in navigating rebates, the
Panelists shared realworld examples of businesses in Josephine County that have collectively saved millions of dollars through these programs—investments that often translate into staff hires, facility improvements, or simply greater financial stability. Even modest upgrades like lighting or HVAC improvements can unlock measurable savings, and both Pacific Power and Energy Trust of Oregon have specialists ready to walk alongside businesses to maximize results.
As always, the Chamber hosts Peerspectives because hearing from peers and experts side-by-side provides a practical, solutions-oriented perspective. We thank our panelists and attendees for making this conversation both engaging and informative. Stay tuned for details on our next Peerspectives session—we look forward to continuing the dialogue on issues that matter most to our business community.
We’re excited to update 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.
One of the shining examples of this impact is “Foundry Village”, a transitional housing facility made up of 17 tiny homes, that Mid Rogue Foundation built and owns. These transitional homes provide more than just a roof— they offer hope, stability, and a pathway forward. Since its opening, Foundry Village has become a cornerstone of the community’s efforts to address homelessness-- and proof that offering help works.
August 1, 2024 Mid Rogue Foundation took over operations of the facility from community partner, UCAN. A year later, as of August 1, 2025, 16 people exited the program with two-thirds of those moving into permanent housing and the others left due to personal choice or conflicts with program parameters. Foundry Village could transition more people to permenant housing if there
were more rentals in the community for them. Although the waiting list to participate in the Foundry Village program is long, we encourage the unhoused to apply and get on our waiting list.
Over the last two years MRF has also spun off and established a new service for the community. We now provide Navigation services to those in need, beyond just those living at Foundry Village. These mobile navigators meet people where they are to provide customized services, referral assistance with forms and matching needs to service providers----The secret sauce that helps them through their crisis or better still, keeps them out of crisis.
MRF is also partnering with AllCare Health, the City of Grants Pass, the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce, the Thursday Rotary Club, and CommonConnections.org to put on a series of informational events called “Build That Rental”. These are geared towards mentoring, informing and generally nudging the potential builder of rentals to “Just Do It” and start building that rental.
acreage of this program and size of the site is the most critical and valuable part of this program for our community.
MRF is thrilled to tell you about this site. We are about to start construction of Hillcrest Veterans Village, a 36-unit apartment complex for military veterans. There is a lot to talk about with the village –It’s origins (let’s do something for veterans beyond a sign along the freeway) —It’s development path--- It’s design—It’s funding complexity (and scarcity) – Its schedule and on and on — way more than can fit in a newsletter. Projected completion date is scheduled for fall of 2026.
Thank you for what you do and in helping MRF with its work in the community. We hope this newsletter gives you a deeper sense of the real progress your support makes possible. Whether it’s helping individuals move from crisis to stability, creating new housing opportunities, or building entire communities of care, none of this would happen without you. We look forward to sharing more milestones in the months ahead— and continuing this journey together.
And new to MRF is “Evan’s Place”, a home in town on 5 acres with a 6 bedroom house for low-income seniors and monthly case management. The size of the
Address: 1600 NE 7th, Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 474-7253
Primary Contact: Joanna Foster
Email: aspen@rigsandrides.net
Website: www.rigsandrides.net
Category: Automotive & RV Dealers & Sales
Description:
Rigs & Rides LLC is a proud, family-owned and operated dealership dedicated to making the car-buying process simple, transparent, and enjoyable. Under new ownership, we’ve brought fresh energy and a renewed commitment to serving our community with honesty and care.
Our friendly, knowledgeable team works hard to match every customer with the right vehicle for their needs and budget. Partnering with over 100 different lenders, we offer financing solutions for nearly every situation. We’re honored to have earned the trust of our clients through quality vehicles, fair pricing, and exceptional service. At Rigs & Rides, you’re family”.
Address: 2244 Carton Way, Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 507-1007
Primary Contact: Leah Baker
Email: admin@bakeravionics.com
Website: www.bakeravionics.com
Category: Aviation/Repair/Flight Schools
Description:
Baker Avionics is an FAA Certified Repair Station and has carved a reputation in the Pacific Northwest for providing outstanding work when it comes to panel-mounted avionics, maintenance services, troubleshooting skills, as well as timely certifications to keep you up in the air
Mono Lawn Maintenance LLC.
Address: Grants Pass & Medford
Phone: (541) 621-3267
Primary Contact: Gerardo Banuelos
Email: gbsmono78@gmail.com
Website: www.MonoLawnMaintenancellc.com
Category: Landscaping Design, Installation & Maintenance
Description:
Commercial and residential lawn maintenance: edging, blowing, trimming bushes, blowing sidewalks, parking lot, and more.
Address: 820 NE E. St. Ste G., Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 204-1451
Primary Contact: Deena Shean
Email: deenas@familyrhc.com
Website: www.familyresourcehomecare.com/locations/grants-pass/ Category: Health care-Professional Services
Description:
Family Resource Home Care in Grants Pass provides compassionate, non-medical assistance that helps clients remain comfortable and independent at home. Our caregivers support daily activities, companionship, transportation, respite, meal preparation, light housekeeping, dementia care, and more—tailored to each person’s needs and routines. We’re proud to serve families across Josephine County and communities, strengthening aging-in-place options and relieving caregiver stress. Every team member is selected, trained, and supported, sharing a commitment to dignity, reliability, and exceptional service. When questions arise or needs change, we respond quickly, coordinate with loved ones, and go the extra mile so people thrive where they live.
ServiceMaster of Medford
Address: 531 Parsons Dr, Medford
Phone: (541) 773-9559
Primary Contact: Derak Bowles
Email: dbowles@smofmedford.com
Website: www.servicemasterrestore.com/servicemaster-of-medford/
Category: Disaster Restoration
Description:
If your home or office was damaged in a disaster, our team at ServiceMaster of Medford is here to guide you through the damage restoration process. We provide top-notch restoration services in Medford and are committed to returning your property to its rightful state. Our compassionate team genuinely cares about your comfort and well-being, and they work safely and efficiently to get the job done as quickly as possible.
Backed by a national brand with over 65 years of experience that has created many of the industry’s standards, we know what equipment and methods to use to ensure your restoration project is done to your specifications.
Address: 250 NE Agness, Grants Pass
Phone:(541)956-8652
Primary Contact: Taylor Chandler
Email:Apple9630@yourihop.com
Website: www.Applebees.com / www.Ihop.com
Category: Restaurant
Description:
Dual Branded Applebees and IHOP restaurants provide guests with two unique dining experiences under one roof. From IHOP’s world famous pancakes to Applebee’s one of a kind Happy hour, all accompanied by our amazing service promise!
Every week, nearly 80 local business leaders gather for our Chamber Greeters meeting—and the energy in the room is undeniable. This weekly tradition is more than just a meeting; it’s a powerful opportunity to connect, collaborate, and grow your business.
At Greeters, you’ll have a chance to share what’s happening in your business, hear community updates, and discover new opportunities. The relationships built here often extend far beyond the meeting itself—leading to referrals, partnerships, and friendships that strengthen both your business and our community.
Those who attend often repeat the phrase, “Chamber Works.” It’s a saying with many layers of meaning. It reminds us that networking works as a strategy to grow your business. It also reflects the way Chamber members work together to support one another, solve challenges, and celebrate successes. And, at its heart, it means that building a strong network of professionals truly works—in business and in life.
If you haven’t experienced a Chamber Greeters meeting yet, we invite you to join us. Come see firsthand why so many local leaders make this a cornerstone of their week. Because when you’re connected, you thrive and that’s how business gets done in our community… networking to build relationships. #ChamberWorks
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
Amidst the last throes of summer, we had to do some pivoting with our schedule. However, our Young Professionals Network connected for the Quarterly Trash Clean-up and a Networking Social, demonstrating our adaptability and commitment to community engagement.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Birdie Juice Indoor Golf Company LLC for hosting us. Fresh off celebrating their 1st anniversary, Tyler Pellham and Randy Nicholson started this venture out of their passion for golf. Strategically situated in the former Weekend Beer Company, Birdie Juice offers an impressive selection of taps, several golf simulators, ping pong, foosball, and board games. This family-friendly venue caters to everyone, from seasoned pros seeking lessons to newcomers wanting to play in a weather-proof environment, a perfect spot to hone your golf skills.
As our committee outlines our 2026 schedule, we value your feedback on topics, venues, and speakers you’d find beneficial. Your input is vital to tailoring our events to the community’s needs. Please feel free to contact Christie or any other committee members to share your thoughts.
Additionally, 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. Our community partners enable us to offer events at no cost. To learn more about the YPN or explore sponsorship opportunities, contact Christie Swafford at cswafford@grantspasschamber.org.
In September, we will be hosting a Professional Development session focused on Customer Service. 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.
Canine Club
Cartwright’s Valley Meat Co.
Elev8 Mortgage, LLC
Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service - Grants Pass
Handprints Stationery & Gifts
HASL Center for Independent Living
Henderson’s Line-Up, Brake & RV
Kendon Leet Real Estate
MailBox Plus
Maslow Project
Metal Masters Inc
Northwest Community Credit Union
Real Wise Property Management-Parkway Village
RealWise Property Management
RITA’S
Rogue Family Eye Care
Rogue Workforce Partnership
The Dove Media Inc
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 ~ Family Resource Home Care (25th) 12:00 PM
Apply for the Rogue Leadership Training Experience! http://www.RogueLeadershipTraining.com
LIMITED TO (1) EACH
• Included in Print and Media Marketing W/Logo
• Logo on Website Sponsor Page
• Logo on Event Map
• Logo on photobooth pics OR re-usable event bags
• 6 Tickets for the Event
• Included in Print and Media Marketing W/Logo
• Logo on Website Sponsor Page
• Logo on Event Map
• 2 Tickets to the event
LIMITED TO (1) EACH
• Included in Print and Media Marketing W/Logo
• Logo on Website Sponsor Page
• Logo on Event Map
• Logo on water bottles OR on event Trolley
• 4 Tickets for the Event
• Included in Print and Media Marketing
• Name on Website Sponsor Page
• Name on Event Map
Elevate Your Brand Through Sponsorship!
Elevate Your Brand Through Sponsorship!
Join us in supporting and promoting local commerce as a sponsor of our events! By partnering with the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce, you will help us fulfill our mission of communication, advocacy, and partnerships that benefit our community. Our iconic events attract enthusiastic attendees, offering a prime opportunity to enhance your brand recognition. With limited Platinum and Premier sponsorships available, your business can shine as a leader in local support and engagement. Let’s work together to showcase your commitment to our community's prosperity!
Join us in supporting and promoting local commerce as a sponsor of our events! By partnering with the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce, you will help us fulfill our mission of communication, advocacy, and partnerships that benefit our community. Our iconic events attract enthusiastic attendees, offering a prime opportunity to enhance your brand recognition. With limited Platinum and Premier sponsorships available, your business can shine as a leader in local support and engagement. Let’s work together to showcase your commitment to our community’s prosperity!