Honoring the Living Legacy of MaryLou Thomason
MChamber Membership An Investment in
embership in the chamber is much more than a plaque on the wall, the fulfillment of a sense of civil obligation, or the means to generate new business. Rather, membership represents a commitment to the continued prosperity of Josephine County’s economy. The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce is the catalyst that enables businesses to accomplish collectively what no one business could do alone. A strong united effort gives a voice to members. Tourism, service, retail and manufacturing each contribute to our business community. Come visit us about joining the Chamber and add your energetic voice to the community.
Chamber of Commerce Contact Information
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce 1995 NW Vine Street • Grants Pass, OR 97526
Phone: 541.476.7717 • GPCOC@grantspasschamber.org • www.grantspasschamber.org
Terry Hopkins President/CEO
Executive
Board of Directors
Mark Stutzman - Farmer’s Bldg Supply
Patrick Sharp - Asante
Board of Directors
CHAIR/Alan Meyer - Pacific Power
CHAIR ELECT/ Donnie Garnett - People’s Bank
VICE CHAIR/ Meghan Boehm - So. OR Aspire
TREASURER/ Terri WileyEvergreen Fed Bank
PAST CHAIR/ Kate LaskyJosephine Community Libraries
EJeff Javelona - Old Town Mail House
Juliet Long - RCC
Lee Wassink - The Glass Forge
Brian Bouteller - Gospel Rescue Mission
Nathan Miller - Rentec Direct
Kevin Gill - Clouser Drilling Co.
Tiffany Johnson - RE/MAX
Ryan Queener- MasterBrand
very Thursday Morning at 10:30 A.M. Chamber Chatter is sponsored by Evergreen Federal Bank, showcasing events and businesses in our area.
Chamber Chatter is fun and informative while discussions with the Morning Hosts of KAJO, KLDR and KRRM keep it lively and interesting.
Join us at 10:30 A.M. each Thursday morning to listen to Chamber Chatter and find out what is happening in our community for the weekend. Keep your radio dialed to 94.7 FM, 98.3 FM, 99.7 FM or 1270 AM 10:30-11:00 A.M.
Chamber Foundation
Lowell Gibson - NiceBadge - Chair
Roy Lindsay - Retired, Vice Chair
Rebecca Stoltz- JCLF - Secretary
Terri Wiley- Evergreen Fed Bank - Treasurer
Lawton Lesueur - Director; Mid.Emp.Ins.
Hyla Lipson- Director, GP Museum of Art
Kiana Stiles - Director
Sponsored
By:
This Month on Chamber Chatter: • Ian Cox - NLP • Schmidt Family Vineyards • • Skincare by Dawn • Women’s Crisis Support Team •
& Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org
Christie Swafford Programs & Events
Trina Runyan Membership & Business Development
Shirley Liska Office Assistant
Karen Henningsen Accounting Contractor
Cat Bonney Graphics Contractor
As I reflect on last month’s Annual Awards Banquet, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. The energy in the room was electric, filled with business leaders, community champions, and individuals who make Grants Pass and Josephine County the incredible place we call home. This event is more than just an evening of recognition—it’s a testament to the strength, resilience, and generosity of our local business community.
Congratulations to all of our award recipients! Your dedication to excellence, innovation, and service inspires us all. But beyond the winners, I want to recognize every business that attended. Your presence, your commitment to our economy, and your investment in our community do not go unnoticed. You are the backbone of our region’s success, and together, we are building something remarkable.
A highlight of the evening was presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to a truly extraordinary woman—MaryLou Thomason. MaryLou’s impact on this community is immeasurable. As the longtime owner of the Galice Resort, she built a business that became a beloved landmark, a gathering place, and a beacon of hospitality. But her contributions go far beyond business—MaryLou has dedicated her life to service, giving back to countless organizations with a heart full of generosity.
Her legacy with the Boys & Girls Club of the Rogue Valley is profound, so much so that the very building bears her name. She has changed lives, provided opportunities for young people, and set an example of what true leadership and community spirit look like. It was an honor to recognize her that night, and we are all better for the impact she has made.
That evening also marked the launch of our new Catalyst Program, an initiative designed to support new and growing businesses through scholarships for their first year of Chamber membership. This program is built on the belief that when businesses have access to the right network, resources, and advocacy, they can thrive—and when they thrive, our community flourishes.
Our hope is that today’s Catalyst Program recipients will one day stand on that same stage, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award of their own, having given back to the community in the same way MaryLou has. Because that’s what leadership is—it’s investing in others, lifting as we climb, and ensuring that the next generation of businesses has the tools to succeed.
To everyone who made the evening so special—starting with the Chamber staff and volunteers who made the event happen, to our attendees and our sponsors, from the award winners to those who support them daily—thank you. Thank you for your passion, your commitment, and your belief in the power of business to create a stronger community.
The future of Grants Pass and Josephine County is bright because of you. Let’s continue to support each other, celebrate our successes, and keep working together to build a thriving local economy.
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
March 2025
Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00
March 5th
Mid Rogue Foundation - Build That Rental Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
March 12th
Evergreen Federal Bank
The Bear Hotel ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
March 19th
Grants Pass Kiwanis
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
March 26th
Casa of Josephine County
The Hivve • 164 SE G 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/
SI CASA FLORES
"Vida Feliz" or "Happy life" is our family motto
March 2025
Kim VanHise
Kim Ragsdale Portraits
Emcee- Sherri Scott, Sherri Scott Real Estate
Kim VanHise, Kim Ragsdale Portraits
Emcee- Mark Stutzman, Farmer’s Building Supply
Learning with The Library Library Resources
Neighborhood Heroes Story Squad
Children and their families are invited to a special Neighborhood Heroes program featuring local Dentist, Dr. Sara Riechers of Compassionate Dentistry. Join us on Friday, March 21, from 11 am–12 pm at the Grants Pass branch.
Participants will have a chance to ask questions and learn more about community helpers. Stick around after the Q&A for a themed craft.
A library card is not needed to participate. Yet, if you need to, sign up for an instant online library card today at: josephinelibrary.org/library-cards.
Stop by your nearest Josephine Community Library branch or visit josephinelibrary.org/youth-and-family/children/dolly-partons-imagination-library to register your child at no cost, thanks to the Grants Pass Rotary Club.
Started in 1994, AllCare Independent Physician Association (IPA) 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 IPA. Changing healthcare to work for you.
AllCareHealth.com/IPA
Dr. Christopher Patton is a Board Certified Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics with extensive experience and additional special training in autism evaluations. Kids and their caregivers love how easy it is to talk to Dr. Patton. They say he really listens to them and helps them participate in healthcare decisions.
Christopher Patton, MD
Monty, Grateful patient, Brookings, Ore.
2025 Chamber Kiosk Program
Four Kiosk Locations seen by Tourist & Locals
Locations & G Street, Chamber Visitors Center, www.grantspasschamber.org
Annual Rate
Chamber Member: $295.00
*Must login to Chamber account to receive discount-if you need assistance, contact Trina Non-Member: $345.00
Online Registration:
https://business.grantspasschamber.org/events/details/kiosk4business -2025-54040
Business Name: _______________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________
Bus Phone: ________________________ Email: _____________________________________ Type of Business: _______________________Website: _______________________________
Contact Person_________________________ Best Contact #: _________
Please email logo and QR Code to trunyan@grantspasschamber.org
Complete Form with Check Payable to: GPCOC PO Box 970 Grants Pass 97528
Questions Call Trina Runyan (541) 956-4102 or trunyan@grantspasschamber.org
Fruitdale Grange #379
What is a Grange? COMMUNITY. Established in 1907 on the old Mormon Beet Factory site at Rogue River Highway and Parkdale Drive, Fruitdale Grange offers a wide range of locally oriented programs and activities like quarterly breakfasts, annual Health, Wellness & Education Fair, Chamber Greeters meetings and community service events.
Fruitdale Grange is the founder of Shoes 4 Kids, now administered by Fruitdale Grange Foundation. It’s home to 13 organizations and non-profits that are open to new members, as well as blood drives, CPR Classes and seminars. It’s the perfect place for small to medium events such as meeting, dances, dinners, memorial services and more. It’s equipped with a roomy certified kitchen and audio/visual equipment.
Through outreach, Granges help improve the lives of their own members and of neighbors in their rural communities. Whether by helping a neighbor in need or by organizing a bake sale to raise money for a local nonprofit, Grange members will be there serving their communities. The Grange is for the whole family. With Junior Grange and Grange Youth programs available, anyone over age four has a place in the Grange. These young members conduct their own meetings, learn about leadership and service, and participate in fun activities. The Grange is for everyone!
ADVOCACY. Along with being a social and service organization, the Grange is the nation’s oldest agriculture advocacy group. Being a Grange member opens the door to interact with legislators to advocate on behalf of rural America and agriculture.
COMMITMENT. The National Grange was founded December 4, 1867 in Washington D.C. Throughout its history, the Grange has played pivotal roles in National agricultural and rural policy and is a leading voice for rural America. Fruitdale Grange is excited to plan it’s 120th birthday party in 2027!
For more information, visit www.fruitdalegrange.com. Monthly business meetings are the 4th Saturday at 10:30 and the public is welcome.
and partnerships!
Small Business Education ~ SCORE.org Recorded Webinars Workshops, Webinars, Events and Courses for Business Growth Gain insights and skills needed to grow your business. Our small business training includes live and recorded webinars, in-person and online workshops, events and courses led by industry experts. Whether you’re starting out or looking to expand, we provide the educational tools to help you succeed.
Photo
Shauna Bland Fostering a Legacy for the Future Award
Rogue Solutions Accouting Small Business Excellence Award
Donnie Thomason Rising Star Award
Doug Bradley Person of the Year Award
The Growler Guys Taphouse Architecture Award
Flores Family of Restaurants Large Business Excellence Award
Mailboxes Plus Feb 7th - 1051C NE 6th St
AMBASSADORS at the Awards Banquet 2025
UPCOMING Ribbon Cuttings
Abby’s Pizza - 1560 Williams Hwy
Mar 6th @ 2:00 PM
Skincare by Dawn - 1012 NW 6th St
Mar 14th @ 3:00 PM
Directors Mortgage - 1595 NE 6th St #F
Mar 21st @ 3:00 PM
Habitat House
Mar 22nd @ 2:00 PM
Redwood Grange - 1830 Redwood Ave
Mar 26th @ 5:30 PM
Advocacy Update: Championing Business Interests Amid Legislative Developments
The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce remains steadfast in advocating for policies that foster economic growth and protect our local businesses. This legislative session, our Chamber has taken proactive steps to ensure the voice of our business community is heard. We have provided testimony to the Oregon House Committee on Economic Development, Trade, and Small Business, sharing key concerns and priorities for businesses in our region. Additionally, we hosted a roundtable discussion with the same committee, giving local business leaders the opportunity to speak directly with lawmakers. Our Government Affairs Committee has also played a crucial role in developing a Policy Priorities Document, outlining our key legislative goals to ensure a strategic and unified advocacy approach.
With over 3,000 bills introduced in Oregon’s 2025 legislative session, we are actively monitoring key legislation that could impact our members. Below are some of the bills and issues we are tracking:
Legislation We Support
✅ HB 3140 – Liability Protections for Recreation and Fitness Businesses
This bill would provide liability protections for operators of recreational, sports, and fitness businesses, allowing them to require participants to release claims for ordinary negligence. This is a critical measure that will help
reduce legal risks and operational costs for businesses while promoting outdoor recreation and fitness industries. We support HB 3140 as it provides necessary legal safeguards for business owners in these sectors.
✅ Corporate Activity Tax (CAT) Threshold Adjustments
Several bills, including HB 2039 and SB 381, propose increasing the exemption and filing thresholds for the CAT from $1 million to $5 million. Raising these thresholds would ease the financial burden on small and medium-sized businesses, allowing them to reinvest in job creation and expansion. We support increasing the CAT threshold to provide relief for Oregon businesses.
✅ HB
3119 – Delay of Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) Regulations
This bill is aimed at delaying the enforcement of the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule until at least January 1, 2027. The ACT rule, adopted by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), requires an increasing percentage of new medium- and heavy-duty truck sales to be zero-emission vehicles while prohibiting the sale of new diesel trucks. This mandate forces businesses to transition their fleets to electric trucks before adequate charging infrastructure, vehicle availability, and financial support are in place.
Rural businesses in Oregon, particularly those in transportation, agriculture, and logistics, lack access to charging stations and face significant cost burdens due to the high price and limited range of electric trucks. HB 3119 would provide critical time for
infrastructure development and allow businesses to make a practical transition without compromising operations or economic stability.
Legislation We Oppose
✅ SB 916 – Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers
SB 916 seeks to extend unemployment benefits to striking workers after seven days. While we recognize the importance of worker protections, this bill places additional financial strain on the unemployment insurance system and could prolong labor disputes, making it more difficult for businesses to maintain stability. We oppose SB 916 to protect the balance of Oregon’s unemployment system.
✅ HB 3325 & HB 3556 – Lodging Tax Allocation Changes
These bills propose expanding the allowable uses of lodging tax revenues beyond their original intent of supporting tourism promotion and visitor-related facilities. Redirecting these funds could reduce critical investments in tourism marketing and infrastructure, ultimately harming the industry that generates these revenues. Lodging taxes were established to grow local economies by attracting visitors, not to subsidize unrelated government expenses. We oppose HB 3325 and HB 3556 to ensure lodging tax dollars continue benefiting the tourism sector as intended.
✅ HB 3419 – Domestic Water Well Metering
This bill would allow the Oregon Water Resources Department to
place meters on Domestic Exempt Use Water Wells, which account for less than 4% of Oregon’s groundwater use. Managing and tracking this data would increase agency costs, likely leading to new fees or taxes on well users.
Additionally, last year’s Groundwater Allocation Project already halted new groundwater rights without sufficient basin-specific data. We oppose HB 3419 as it imposes unnecessary regulations and costs on rural homeowners and small businesses.
✅ SB 176 – Marijuana and Workplace Safety
Sections 33-35 of SB 176 would make it nearly impossible for employers to enforce workplace safety policies regarding marijuana use. Oregon employers must comply with federal regulations under the Controlled Substances Act, which explicitly prohibits marijuana use. The Oregon Supreme Court has also ruled that federal law takes precedence over state law in workplace drug policies (Emerald Steel Fabricators v. BOLI).
This bill would force employers into legal uncertainty and jeopardize workplace safety by making it more difficult to maintain drug-free policies essential for protecting employees, customers, and the public. We strongly oppose SB 176 unless Sections 33-35 are removed.
✅ SB 678 – Wildfire Hazard Mapping & SB 762 from Past Legislative Sessions
We recognize the ongoing concerns stemming from SB 762, the wildfire hazard mapping legislation passed in a previous session. SB 678 has been introduced to repeal these provisions, but we will continue to monitor developments to ensure a balanced approach that considers both community safety and property rights.
Additionally, Governor Tina Kotek has paused all appeals related to wildfire hazard mapping while the Legislature reviews the issue further. We will keep our members updated as discussions evolve.
✅ Stay Informed & Engaged
Your Chamber is working hard to protect the business community from policies that hinder economic growth while supporting legislation that strengthens our local economy. Stay informed by subscribing to our free Advocacy Alerts—a weekly update on key legislation affecting your business.
As one local business owner shared: “The Chamber’s proactive advocacy efforts ensure our voices are heard. They help businesses like mine navigate legislative changes with confidence.”
We will continue working tirelessly to advocate for policies that promote business success. Stay engaged, stay informed, and let’s work together to shape a stronger business environment in Oregon.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
Latitude Wine Tours
Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 450-9593
Primary Contact: Faith Lemire-Baeten
Email: faith@latitudewinetours.com
Website: www.latitudewinetours.com
Category: Agritourism - Wine Tours
Description:
Owned and operated by certified wine educator Faith Lemire-Baeten, Latitude Wine Tours offers a unique and exciting adventure for wine enthusiasts of all levels, from casual explorers to seasoned connoisseurs.
We provide private five-hour tours to three unique wineries, personalized to your group’s interests and tastes. We combine our deep knowledge and personal connections to create unique, educational, and entertaining wine tour experiences for all.
Above & Beyond Real Estate Brokers Inc.
Address: 373 Cambridge Dr. Grants Pass 97526
Phone: (541) 218-1300
Primary Contact: Vicki Carpenter
Email: Vickicarpenter@me.com
Website: wwwLovesouthernoregon.com
Category: Real Estate
Description: Real Estate Done Right
Nervous about your property adventure? Don’t be. Whether you’re getting ready to buy or sell, in the middle of it, or just looking for some answers, our top-notch skills ensure you get the best experience possible. It’s what we LOVE to do!
Real Estate -Homes and Properties- Josephine and Jackson County, Homes for sale Best Real Estate Broker in Southern Oregon
Wagon Wheel Financial
Address: 1610 SW Allen Creek Rd.
Phone: (541) 275-1959
Primary Contact: Aaron Tuttle
Email: aaron@wagonwheelfinancial.com
Website: www.wagonwheelfinancial.com
Category: Financial & Investment Advisors
Description:
As your fiduciary partner, Wagon Wheel Financial offers two distinct retirement planning services. For those still working, we provide expert guidance and personalized portfolio management at approximately half the industry average cost.
For retirees, we focus on lifetime tax reduction planning, including annual tax return reviews and comprehensive estate planning. We’re committed to helping you achieve your financial goals at every stage of life.
Sunrise Service Pro
Address: Medford/Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 301-6789
Primary Contact: Hector Mojarro
Email: sunriseservicespro1@gmail.com
Website: www.sunriseservicespro.com
Category: Janitorial & Cleaning Services
Description:
At Sunrise Services Pro, we pride ourselves on delivering more than just a clean space—we provide peace of mind. With over two decades of experience serving the Rogue Valley, our reputation for excellence is built on reliability, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. We differentiate ourselves through our eco-friendly practices, ensuring every service we provide is not only effective but also safe for the environment..
At Sunrise Services Pro, your satisfaction is our top priority, and our extensive list of loyal clients and glowing testimonials is a testament to our dedication. When you choose us, you’re not just hiring a cleaning service—you’re partnering with a trusted local expert committed to maintaining the highest standards in every job we undertake.
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., and Logan Design
February proved to be a wild month for our Young Professionals Network (YPN) group, as we experienced ALL the weather! Nevertheless, we still managed to find two opportunities to connect during the month, both in which Weekend Beer Company generously sponsored beverages.
Our first event was an insightful tour of the Grants Pass Museum of Art, which saw a good turnout. For many attendees, this was their first visit to the museum, and they were eager to take in the artwork and get a good feel for this unique venue. Hyla Lipson, the Executive Director, welcomed us and provided us with a great overview of the museum’s diverse activities.
Centrally located in the Historic District, this non-profit museum spans two levels, with the Gallery situated downstairs. The museum regularly hosts:
• Field trips
• Art classes
• Poetry sharing
• Exhibitions
• Workshops
• Concerts
• Films
Additionally, it houses an art library and hosts the highly popular “Art in the Garden” event. Hyla emphasized that the museum maintains a “blue collar accessible” vibe, aiming to be welcoming and approachable for everyone.
Our second gathering was for the Quarterly Adopt-a-Street Cleanup, where we were blessed with perfect weather. This event is always a favorite, as it provides a unique opportunity to connect, network, and contribute positively to our community.
On March 20th, we will be hosting our Quarterly Networking Social. Check our Chamber Community for more information.
To learn more about the Young Professionals Network or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to Christie Swafford at the Chamber. We encourage you to follow us on social media and sign up for text alerts by texting GPYPN to 38316.
Black Flag Armory
Bristol Hospice-Rogue Valley LLC
Caveman Travel
Century 21 J.C. Jones American Dream
Citizens for Responsible Government
Clouser Well Drilling Inc
Every Child
Express Employment Professionals
Grants Pass Toyota
Great Northwest Music
Grip N Grub
H&R Block of Grants Pass
Hearts With a Mission
Lamar Company
Motel Del Rogue
Once Upon A Horse Spay and Neuter
Options for Southern Oregon
Rentec Direct
Rogue River Greenway Foundation
Rogue River Outfitters
Rotary Club of Greater Grants Pass
Schmidt Family Vineyards
Siskiyou Insurance Marketplace, Inc.
Solista Grants Pass
Soul Canyon Training & Development
The Human Bean
The Venuti Group at Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty
Troon Vineyard
UCAN
USCellular
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Business After Hours ~ Laughing Grass Inn, Hosted by VanDusen Design ~ March 13th 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, RSVP Requested Spring is Coming! Check the Calendar for all of the Ribbon Cuttings!
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
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