We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
Page 12: Thank you for 40 Years of Music...
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, 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
Executive Board of Directors
CHAIR/Donnie Garnett - Evergreen Federal Bank
CHAIR ELECT/ Meghan Boehm - SO Aspire
VICE CHAIR/ Mark Stutzman - Farmer’s Building Supply
TREASURER/ Terri Wiley - Evergreen Federal Bank
PAST CHAIR/ Alan Meyer - Pacific Power
EBoard of Directors
Lowell Gibson- NiceBadge
Patrick Sharp - Asante
Kaila Reinhart - RE/Max
Kate Lasky - Josephine Comm. Libraries
David Koehler - RCC
Brian Bouteller - Gospel Rescue Mission
Nathan Miller - Rentec Direct
Kelsy Ausland - Ausland Group
Kevin Gill - Clouser Drilling Co.
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.
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, Stiles Sign Painting
Steve Roe - Director, Roe Motors
Month on Chamber Chatter:
& Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Terry Hopkins President/CEO
Christie Swafford Programs & Events
Wendy Mintey Membership & Business Development
Shirley Liska Office Assistant
Colt Foster Accounting Contractor
Cat Bonney Graphics Contractor
Nikki Rochholz Regional Workforce Coordinator
August is here, and while summer is moving quickly, the Chamber continues to celebrate the people, partnerships and programs that make our community such a special place to live, work and do business.
We recently wrapped up the 40th anniversary season of Concerts in the Park. This milestone season was a tremendous success and another reminder of what can be accomplished when our community comes together. We extend our sincere appreciation to our generous sponsors, Chamber staff, Ambassadors and the many volunteers who helped make each concert possible. Their dedication allows thousands of residents and visitors to enjoy free, family-friendly entertainment in beautiful Riverside Park.
The excitement continues on August 8th with Lemonade Day. Young entrepreneurs throughout our community have been working hard to develop their business ideas, create their products and prepare their lemonade stands. Lemonade Day teaches valuable lessons in goal setting, budgeting, customer service and giving back. We encourage everyone to visit the participating stands, purchase a glass of lemonade and support these hardworking young business owners.
August also brings an exciting addition to the Chamber team. Nikki Rochholz will join us as our new Regional Workforce Coordinator. This position will help strengthen connections between employers, workforce resources and opportunities throughout the region. Readers can learn more about Nikki and this important new role later in this magazine. We have also opened applications for the second cohort of the Rogue Leadership Training Experience. Following a successful inaugural year, we look forward to welcoming another group of emerging and established leaders who are ready to grow their skills, build relationships and make a positive impact in our community.
As always, thank you to our members for your continued Chamber membership and support. Your investment makes this work possible and helps us continue supporting businesses, developing leaders and strengthening our community.
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
August 2026
Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00
Aug 5th
Grants Pass Daily Courier Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
Aug 12th
Oregon Dept Human Services 2101 Hawthorne Ave
Aug 19th
GP Family YMCA 1000 Redwood Ave
Aug 26th
Bristol Hospice Redwood Grange ~ 1830 Redwood Ave
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!
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/
August 2026
Cynthia Hewitt
Wendy Mintey, Membership & Development
Cynthia Hewitt, Cynthia’s Home Sweet Home
Cynthia’s Home Sweet Home
Learning
The Library
With NewsBank, your Josephine Community Library card gives you free access to trusted newspapers from Oregon and across the U.S. — all from your computer, tablet, or phone. Find recent publications from The Register-Guard (Eugene), The Bulletin (Bend), the Statesman Journal (Salem), Rogue Valley Times (southern Oregon), and more.
Get started: josephinelibrary.org/catalog/magazines-and-newspapers Read Local. Research Nationally. Explore History.
The care you need when you
AllCare Medical Group is a multisite medical practice that delivers provider-led, patient-centered healthcare to southern Oregon. Offices in Grants Pass, Glendale, Illinois Valley, and Shady Cove!
Douglas 1585 NW Washington Blvd
Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 476-7000
Greater Glendale 101 1st Street
Glendale, OR 97442 (541) 832-5400
Illinois Valley 341 Cottage Park, Suite 1 Cave Junction, OR 97523 (541) 450-3625
Mountainview 741 NE 6th Street
Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 471-2701
Shady Cove 21990 Hwy. 62, Shady Cove, OR 97539 (541) 878-2022
Rogue 201 NE Savage Street
Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 244-2197
WellSpring 1716 Williams Highway Grants Pass, OR 97527 (541) 474-6053
Monty, Grateful patient, Brookings, Ore.
Exclusive Health Benefits for Grants Pass Business Community
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 rising 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
CLUB NORTHWEST
For nearly 29 years, Club Northwest has been more than a health club. Since opening our doors on February 10, 1997, our vision has been simple: to create a place of joy, celebration, and healing of mind, body, and spirit for the people of our community, by the people of our community. Today, even though we have grown in size to over 7 acres and 82,000 indoor square feet of health and Wellbeing, our mission remains unchanged.
At the core of Club Northwest’s DNA is a simple belief—that every person is inherently Well. Sometimes life covers that truth with stress, illness, uncertainty, or simply the demands of everyday living. Our purpose is to create an environment where people can discover—or rediscover—the Wellbeing that has always been within them.
Whether you’re taking your very first steps toward better health, training for your next adventure, recovering from an injury, seeking community, or simply looking for a place that supports your overall Wellbeing, you’ll find a home here. We welcome people of every age, every ability, every background, and every season of life. At Club Northwest, there is no “typical member.” There are simply neighbors, friends, and families, each on their own unique journey to the Wellbeing that already resides within them.
Everything we do, every decision we make, is designed to serve the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Through movement, recreation, aquatics, youth programs, education, and meaningful relationships, our goal is to help people experience healing and lasting Wellbeing in every area of life.
One of the first things you’ll hear when you walk through our doors is, “Welcome home.” Those words express the culture we’ve been dedicated to since 1997. We believe genuine relationships change lives, which is why our enduring invitation has always been, "Your Friends Are Here."
For nearly three decades, it has been our privilege to walk alongside the people of Southern Oregon through every stage of life. As our community continues to grow and evolve, our commitment remains unchanged: to be a welcoming place where everyone belongs, everyone is valued, and everyone is invited to discover the joy of whole person Wellbeing.
We hope you’ll stop by, say hello, and experience the lifestyle so many in our region call Club Northwest. Welcome home. Your friends are here.
Meet Your New Business Advisers at the Rogue Valley SBDC Outreach Center
Whether you’re thinking about starting a business, have recently opened your doors, or are looking for new ways to grow an established company, the Oregon SBDC Network is here to help. We’re excited to welcome Karen Ramorino and Kenny Houck as the new business advisers serving the Josephine County location of the Rogue Valley SBDC Outreach Center.
The new Josephine County office will be located at 143 S.W. G St. in Grants Pass, just off Owl Plaza in the heart of downtown. Advising is available by appointment only, providing clients with dedicated, one-on-one time to discuss their business goals and challenges in a confidential setting. Appointments are available via Zoom, in person at client locations, and at the new office location, as soon as construction is complete in Owl Plaza.
Karen and Kenny bring decades of experience helping entrepreneurs solve problems, seize opportunities, and build successful businesses. They understand that every business owner’s journey is different and are committed to providing practical, confidential guidance tailored to your goals.
Karen Ramorino specializes in helping business owners strengthen both their businesses and their leadership. She holds a doctorate in organizational leadership and has completed advanced programs in executive coaching, project management, and change management. Karen advises clients on startup planning, business operations, human resources, workforce challenges, and strategies for attracting and retaining employees.
“I enjoy helping business owners align their business, financial, and people strategies so they’re well positioned for success,” Karen says. “I’m especially passionate about helping leaders become their best while creating workplaces where employees can thrive.”
Kenny Houck brings nearly 30 years of firsthand experience as a small business owner and sole proprietor. He has also led community development projects throughout Josephine County, giving him a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Southern Oregon businesses. Whether you’re launching a new venture or looking to expand an existing business, Kenny offers practical advice grounded in real-world experience.
“I want everyone who has the dream of owning or growing a business to know they don’t have to figure it out alone,” Kenny says. “My goal is to connect entrepreneurs with the guidance and resources they need to achieve their goals and strengthen our local communities.”
Whether you need help refining a business idea, writing a business plan, managing employees, improving operations, understanding your finances, or planning for future growth, Karen and Kenny are ready to help. To schedule a no-cost, confidential advising appointment, email josephine@oregonsbdc.org.
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
Bridging Divides: Locally and Nationally
sire to do what is right. Even as real-world situations remain ambiguous, it is often in that tension that a community may realize most individuals share a commitment to the same values, such as fairness and justice, even if our perspectives differ
This July, I joined the American Exchange Project (AEP) in their mission to bridge the eco-
nomic, political, and cultural divide among the next generation of American citizens. Each summer, high school seniors from different states participate in a two-week project: one week is spent introducing exchange students to their hometown, and the second week they are assigned a new location via questionnaire. All expenses are covered for participants.
During the Grants Pass hometown week, we took exchange students to the coast, went rafting, explored downtown, visited the Redwoods, and volunteered to set up for the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America celebration at Reinhart Park.
My exchange assignment took me to Dallas, Texas, where I visited Buc-ee’s, attended a Mega Church, explored the National Video Game Museum, toured the JFK Museum and the Stockyards, volunteered at Farm Fresh Animal Sanctuary, and experienced a rodeo. Through these activities, I gained insight into the lives of students in Dallas and learned about national issues from other exchange students who were also visiting the area.
This experience has reinforced a core value held by the Chamber: bridging divides within our community. For example, even though community members may be on different sides of the political spectrum, they can find neutral territory within the Chamber, where building a local network, workforce development, and community advocacy are shared goals that rise above partisan lines.
~ Audrey Roetling, Chamber PY+Intern
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
Bella Luna Boutique
Address: 211 SW G St
Primary Phone: 541-698-1644
Primary Rep: Crissy Taylor
Email: shopbellalunaboutique@gmail.com
Website: http://ShopBellaLunaBoutique.com
Categories: Clothing/Footwear/Accessories
Description:
We started with the simple idea of bringing the best from us to you. Striving to bring you a variety of beautiful looks without sacrificing comfort, we put lots of love and careful thought into all we do.
We hope you enjoy all we have to offer and pop in for a personalized styling experience. Shop Bella Luna for women’s, men’s, and children’s boutique clothing and accessories. Now also featuring the “Booktique “ at Bella Luna, a curated literary shopping experience upstairs inside Bella Luna.
Lori Leach Wedding & Events
Address: Grants Pass, OR
Primary Phone: 541-479-6997
Primary Rep: Lori Leach
Email: hilltopfarmsor@gmail.com
Website: http://www.hilltopfamfarm.com
Categories: Wedding Supplies and Services
Description:
Lori Leach is an event and wedding planner specializing in practical planning for your biggest moments. In addition to planning and coordinating she also offers Bliss & Fizzy Bliss luxury drinking chocolate and dirty soda bars for your events.
Joe & Friends Salon
Address: 212 NE Savage St. Grants Pass, OR
Primary Phone: 503-780-6795
Primary Rep: Joe Gomez
Email: N/A
Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100054529417732#
Categories: Hair Salon & Boutique
Description:
We have a full amazing team of talent! Great vibes, happy environment! Specializing in: Color, Cuts, Weaves, Perms, Extensions, Curly Hair, Pedicures – call us today to book your appointment.
Torus, Inc.
Address: South Salt Lake, UT
Primary Phone: 801-477-6280
Primary Rep: Andrew Hegewald
Email: andrew-hegewald@torus.co
Website: http://www.torus.co
Categories: Utilities
Description:
Energy demand is growing exponentially — and today’s grid wasn’t built for what’s coming. Torus was founded in 2021 in Springville, Utah to close that gap with the world’s first mesh energy infrastructure to power more resilient businesses, utilities, and communities.
Every product is built here with US-sourced steel. Torus is building the energy infrastructure to help businesses, utilities, and communities keep pace with demand. We work directly with utility partners to strengthen the grid while giving manufacturers and data centers the reliable, resilient power they need to grow.
For more information on how Torus can help your company save money on power bills and improve your power quality, please reach out to Andrew Hegewald, andrew-hegewald@torus.co
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
HeyNowFloors LLC
Address: Grants Pass, OR
Primary Phone: 541-787-1343
Primary Rep: Daniel Stahlman
Email: heynowfloorsllc@gmail.com
Website: http://heynowfloorsllc.com
Categories: Floorcovering – Contractors, Equipment, Materials
Description:
With over 10 years of flooring experience to help find the best product for every situation and the knowledge and capability to install any product in a timely manner.
CP Designs Inc.
Address: 992 Ort Ln. Merlin, OR
Primary Phone: 541-226-9872
Primary Rep: Curtis Pearce
Email: curtis@theuprooter.com
Website: http://theuprooter.com
Categories: Landscape installation and maintenance
Description:
The owner of CP Designs, Curtis Pearce, began his business in January 2010. Initially, Curtis began fabricating small hand tools, tomato cages, railings, and other custom products. Curtis spent 3 years working for Tom Ness at The Weed Wrench Company where he learned to build the Weed Wrench™. Over the years, Curtis learned how he could improve the tool to better meet the needs of customers. He then began development on America’s newest woody plant pulling tool, the Uprooter. Proud to be the manufacturer of a product made in the United States, Curtis sources his materials and supplies from local businesses and other U.S. manufacturers. We are also proud to say that the electricity used for our manufacturing facility is 100% off set by our rooftop solar energy production. . In addition to the Uprooter and Weed Wrench line of tools, CP Designs also offers custom powder coating and sand blasting.
Stern Design Co.
Address: Southern OR
Primary Phone: 541-846-8655
Primary Rep: Matt Stern
Email: hello@sterndesign.co
Website: https://sterndesign.co/
Categories: Web/Internet Design & Online
Description:
Website design, hosting & maintenance, SEO/AEO optimization, audits and consulting.
Candela Dance Studio
Address: 329 NE 6th St.
Primary Phone: 541-291-2900
Primary Rep: Melissa McRobbie Toll
Email: CAndelaDanceGP@gmail.com
Website: http://candeladancestudio.com
Categories: Dance/Classes/Entertainment
Description:
Our mission is to spread the joy that dance can bring! We welcome all ages, shapes, sizes and backgrounds. Candela Dance Studio opened in 2014 and the studio is a dream come true, a crazy idea, but always the product of a supportive community!
Since our opening, thousands of dancers have come through our doors. Friendships have formed, romances have blossomed, and many of our dancers have found themselves with an extra spring in their step, having discovered a whole new world of expression and connection on the dance floor.
We’ve operated at several locations over time and are now in a space and neighborhood we adore at 6th and D streets in downtown Grants Pass. If you’re curious, come try it out! We offer FREE trial classes.
Chamber Welcomes
Regional Workforce Coordinator
The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Nikki Rochholz as our new Regional Workforce Coordinator beginning August 3rd.
Created in collaboration with Rogue Workforce Partnership, this new position will strengthen connections between local employers, workforce programs, education partners and job seekers throughout Jackson and Josephine counties.
Workforce development continues to be the leading challenge identified by local employers in the Chamber’s Business Retention & Expansion survey. Through this partnership, the Chamber will provide businesses with a more direct connection to resources that can assist with recruiting, employee training, onthe-job training, internships, paid youth work experiences and developing new talent.
In her new role, Nikki will meet directly with employers to better understand their hiring challenges and workforce needs. She will help businesses navigate available programs and connect them with resources offered through Rogue Workforce Partnership, Rogue Business Elevate and WorkSource Rogue Valley.
The Chamber and Rogue Workforce Partnership will also collaborate on regional workforce events, relationships with education partners and stronger connections between employers and qualified job seekers. Nikki brings 25 years of service-industry experience, as well as extensive knowledge of operating and growing businesses, managing employees and creating effective workplace systems. Her strong community relationships and firsthand understanding of the challenges facing employers make her an excellent fit for this position.
This new role reflects the Chamber’s continued commitment to supporting economic vitality and helping businesses overcome one of their most persistent barriers to growth. We are excited to welcome Nikki to the Chamber team and look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have throughout our region.
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.
The Young Professionals Network took a much-needed break in July! With so many exciting events happening throughout the month—and many members enjoying some well-deserved vacation time—it was the perfect opportunity to recharge.
We’re looking forward to reconnecting in August with fresh energy and even more opportunities to network, learn, and grow together.
Since there wasn’t an event to recap this month, we’d like to take a moment to recognize our incredible YPN Committee. This dedicated group of business and community-minded professionals plays a vital role in making our network thrive. Their ideas, leadership, and connections help us continue to deliver meaningful programming and relevant content for our members. We truly appreciate their time, passion, and commitment to helping Young Professionals Network succeed!
Thank you to our sponsors, your contributions allow us to continue to offer quality events with relevant content all at no cost to attendees.
In August there will be two opportunities to connect. We will be hosting our Adopt-A-Street Trash Cleanup and Professional Development on Conflict Resolution. 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.
Amp Pro Electric LLC dba Pro Electric
Britt Music & Arts Festival
Carden Industries
CASA of Josephine County
Columbia Bank
Countryside Village Energy Trust of Oregon
Evergreen Federal Bank - Main Branch
GPHS Band and Guard Boosters
Handprints Stationary & Gifts
Hart Jewelers
Jefferson Graphics
John L. Scott Real Estate ~ Colene Martin
Josephine Community Library Foundation
Josephine Housing Council
MailBox Plus
Maslow Project
Mono Lawn Maintenance LLC
Open Door Family Dentistry
Outback Pool & Spa
Premier Oil Change
Real Wise Property Management-Parkway Village
RE/Max Integrity
Redwoods Leavitt Insurance Agency
River’s Edge Academy Charter School
Rita’s
ROC Food Pantry
Rogue Community College
Rogue Community College Foundation
Rogue Valley Association of Realtors
SOS Alarm
Stoned Metal
The Dove Media Inc
The Laughing Clam
WorkSource Rogue Valley
MONTHLY UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
Greeters- “Business for Breakfast” Every Wednesday - 8:00 am
Connect w/Enews & Calendar for Locations
Government Affairs Committee*
1st Monday - 9:00 am
Young Professionals Network Committee (YPN)*
2nd Monday - 12:00 noon
Business Retention & Expansion Committee*
2nd Tuesday - 8:00 am
Chamber Board Meeting*
2nd Thursday - 8:00 am
Ambassador Committe Meeting* 1st Wednesday - 7:00 am
LEMONADE DAY is HERE! Saturday, August 8th
Business After Hours hosted by Crash & C-Mac Productions, Aug 13th 5:30, Free- but must register
Check the Chamber Events Calendar for the many Ribbon Cuttings happening to Celebrate our Community!
2 Tickets to the event