Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce Newsletter: November 2025

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MChamber Membership An Investment in Your Business and

embership in the chamber is much more than a plaque on the wall, the fulfillment of a sense of civil obligation, or the means to generate new business. Rather, membership represents a commitment to the continued prosperity of Josephine County’s economy. The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce is the catalyst that enables businesses to accomplish collectively what no one business could do alone. A strong united effort gives a voice to members. Tourism, service, retail and manufacturing each contribute to our business community. Come visit us about joining the Chamber and add your energetic voice to the community.

Chamber of Commerce Contact Information

Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce 1995 NW Vine Street • Grants Pass, OR 97526

Phone: 541.476.7717 • GPCOC@grantspasschamber.org • www.grantspasschamber.org

Board of Directors

Mark Stutzman - Farmer’s Bldg Supply

Patrick Sharp - Asante

Executive Board of Directors

CHAIR/Alan Meyer - Pacific Power

CHAIR ELECT/ Donnie Garnett - People’s Bank

VICE CHAIR/ Meghan Boehm - So. OR Aspire

TREASURER/ Terri WileyEvergreen Fed Bank

PAST CHAIR/ Kate LaskyJosephine Community Libraries

EJeff Javelona - Old Town Mail House

Juliet Long - RCC

Lee Wassink - The Glass Forge

Brian Bouteller - Gospel Rescue Mission

Nathan Miller - Rentec Direct

Kelsy Ausland - Ausland Group

Kevin Gill - Clouser Drilling Co.

Kelsey Yoho - Weekend Beer Co.

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: • YMCA • National Business Solutions • Soroptimist • • Happy Thanksgiving!

& Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~ www.grantspasschamber.org

Terry Hopkins President/CEO
Christie Swafford Programs & Events
Trina Runyan Membership & Business Development
Shirley Liska Office Assistant
Colt Foster Accounting Contractor
Cat Bonney Graphics Contractor

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, November reminds us that every season in business, much like in farming, has its rhythm. Spring brings new ideas, summer demands hard work, and fall gives us the chance to reap what we’ve sown. This is the time to celebrate progress, give thanks for our partners, and prepare for the next cycle of growth.

For many of our local businesses, this season also marks the beginning of their most important harvest, the holiday shopping season. November kicks off Small Business Season, a time dedicated to celebrating the heart of our local economy. It begins with Small Business Saturday on November 30th and continues through the holidays. Each purchase made locally—whether it’s a cup of cocoa, a handmade gift, or dinner with friends—circulates dollars back into our community, supporting jobs, services, and the very character that makes Grants Pass unique.

At the Chamber, we are proud to champion these efforts and collaborations that spotlight the businesses and entrepreneurs who make this community thrive. Supporting local isn’t just an act of kindness, it’s an investment in the health, stability, and future of our local economy.

As we gather with family and friends this month, let’s take a moment to appreciate the businesses that make our community vibrant and resilient. Your Chamber is here to nurture that growth—season after season.

Wishing you all a safe, warm, and prosperous November.

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

November 2025

Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00

Nov 5th

Sundance Distilling

Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.

Nov 12th

Cartwright’s Taprock NW Grill 971 SE 6th Street

Nov 19th

WSCT

Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.

No Greeters

Happy Thanksgiving! We are grateful for each & everyone of you!

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!

November 2025

Joy Hiler

Joy with Youngevity

Emcee- Terri Wiley, Evergreen Federal Bank

Joy Hiler, Joy with Youngevity

Emcee- Roger Singer, Grocery Outlet

Lowell Gibson, NiceBadge

Outgoing Board Members

THANK YOU!

Juliet Long, RCC

Lee Wassink, Glass Forge

Jeff Javelona, Old Town Mail House

Incoming Board Members

WELCOME!

David Koehler, RCC

Kaila Reinhardt, RE/Max

Learning with The Library Library Resources to

Support Your Child’s Learning with Brainfuse HelpNow – Free with Your Library Card

Looking for homework help you can trust? With Brainfuse HelpNow, available through Josephine Community Library, parents can give their children access to safe, reliable academic support—all for free with a library card. Live tutors help guide students through their work, encouraging learning without giving away the answers.

Key features include:

• Live one-on-one tutoring in math, science, reading, writing, and more

• Expert feedback on essays and research papers through the Writing Lab

• Homework tools like study guides, flashcards, and other resources to build independent learning skills

• Language support for English language learners

• Online chess practice and live tutoring to develop strategic thinking and problem-solving skills

To get started, visit josephinelibrary.org and choose ONLINE LEARNING RESOURCES from the EDUCATION/ RESEARCH menu. Log in using your library card number.

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.

Monty, Grateful patient, Brookings, Ore.

Cartwright's Taprock NW Grill

The story of Cartwright’s Market is one of passion, dedication, and a commitment to quality. It all began with Orlin Cartwright, a Navy cook and butcher during World War II. His love for the craft led him to open butcher shops in the 1950s, passing down his expertise through generations.

In 1962, Orlin and his son Jim, opened a meat processing facility in Central Point, later expanding to Grants Pass. It was here that Cartwright’s signature hams and deli meats were born, gaining a reputation for excellence in local restaurants.

By 1997, a new generation took the reins. Jamie Cartwright grew up learning from his father and grandfather, eventually leading the business into a new era. In 2008, he designed and opened a brand-new Cartwright’s Market, transforming the old slaughterhouse into a specialty market with a focus on premium meats, fresh seafood, organic produce, and artisanal goods.

With growing demand, Jamie and his wife, Elvie, opened a second market in Medford in November 2017. This expansion allowed them to introduce a production kitchen, creating chef- inspired salads, entrées, and an in-house bakery offering fresh, handmade desserts.

Taprock NW Grill joined the Cartwright’s family in October 2024. With deep roots in the Rogue Valley food scene, the Cartwrights bring decades of experience to the restaurant scene. The same commitment to honest ingredients and local flavors is what you’ll find on every plate at Taprock NW Grill. From Pacific Northwest seafood to premium meats and farm-fresh produce, everything on our menu is a celebration of Southern Oregon.

Taprock will always be a place to gather, unwind, and enjoy the best of what our region has to offer. We’re committed to supporting local farmers, makers, and the community that’s made us who we are. No matter the season, you’ll find good food, good company, and the view that started it all, right here on the Rogue River.

“When we brought Taprock into the Cartwright’s family, we wanted to honor its iconic setting on the Rogue River while elevating it with the same standards our family has upheld for decades,” said Jamie Cartwright, Owner of Cartwright’s Market and Taprock NW Grill. “Our goal has always been to celebrate Southern Oregon — its farms, fisheries, and community — through every meal we serve keeping it affordable for the whole community.”

Cartwright’s —where history, quality, and community come together. Experience the Cartwright’s difference today!

It’s the Most Meaningful Time of the Year Small Business Season!

November 1st –December 31, 2025

The holidays are here, and it’s the perfect time to make every purchase count. When you shop local, you’re supporting dreams, jobs, and the people who make our town feel like home.

Think of your favorite spots — the café with the best cocoa, the boutique with just-right gifts, the restaurant where celebrations become traditions. These small businesses are part of what makes the season special.

That’s what Small Business Season is all about: celebrating the people and places that bring our community to life. From November through December, we’re shining a light on the passion and care our local businesses put into everything they do.

This year’s theme says it best: Every Purchase Has a Purpose.

Shopping local keeps our economy strong, supports local causes, and helps neighbors thrive.

Here are a few ways to join in:

• Shop local: Find one-of-a-kind gifts at nearby boutiques, craft fairs, and artisan markets.

• Dine local: Enjoy a meal at a family-owned restaurant or treat yourself to a local service or workshop. (Check our community calendar for ideas: GrantsPassChamber.org)

• Share the love: Post about your favorite local spots, tag them on social media, and leave a kind review—it really helps!

Together, we can make this holiday season extra meaningful by choosing local first. Let’s show our appreciation for the neighbors who keep our community strong.

Shop local. Dine local. Love local.

Thank you Sponsors! Thank you Sponsors!

Amerititle
Apothi-Crow
Blaze-N-Monkey’s
Chao Saigon
Cartwright’s Taprock NW Grill

Let’s Partner in 2026 Strategic Sponsorship Opportunities Now Available

As your business begins planning for the 2026 fiscal year, I’d like to personally invite you to consider how a partnership with the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce can help you meet your company’s community engagement, branding, and strategic development goals.

At the Chamber, our mission is clear: To support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy, and partnerships. That mission comes to life through signature programs and events that not only drive economic activity but also strengthen the fabric of our community.

We recognize that for many of our larger businesses—especially financial institutions and regional organizations—brand alignment, community trust, workforce development, and long-term economic vitality are top priorities. Chamber sponsorships offer an opportunity to address those priorities while elevating your visibility and impact.

2026 Sponsorship Opportunities Include:

• Annual Awards Banquet

– Celebrate local leadership and innovation alongside hundreds of business and civic leaders.

• Peerspectives

• Concerts in the Park

– Free family-friendly summer concerts that bring thousands to Riverside Park.

• Wine Stroll & Tap Walk

– Popular downtown events that showcase the vibrancy of our local business community.

• Lemonade Day

– Empower the next generation of entrepreneurs and build a stronger workforce pipeline.

• Greeters Sponsorships – Weekly networking with business leaders across industries.

• Rogue Leadership Training Experience – Our newest initiative cultivating a new generation of purpose-driven leaders for Southern Oregon.

Each of these opportunities provides a unique way for your company to align with initiatives that reflect your own mission and values—whether that’s community development, education, youth engagement, economic growth, or leadership development.

I’ve attached sponsorship forms for each event and would welcome the opportunity to connect and explore how we can help your business meet its marketing and impact goals in 2026.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d be honored to help position your organization as a leader committed to investing in the future of our region.

Warm regards,

Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce

terry@grantspasschamber.org | (541) 476-7717 www.grantspasschamber.org

Strategic Sponsorship Opportunities

Contact the Chamber to customize a stategic plan to market your business or organization by partnering with these popular programs.

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

Cleaning Solutions & Restoration LLC

Address: 2163 NE Spalding Ave Suite #7

Primary Phone: (541) 660-8094

Primary Rep: Tom Ray

Email: connect@gpcleanfreaks.com

Website: https://gpcleanfreaks.com

Categories: Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Disaster Restoration

Description:

Cleaning Solutions provides residential and custodial cleaning services 7 days a week. We offer reoccurring janitorial and housekeeping services as well as one-time cleans and carpet cleaning.

Norman Design Company LLC

Address: 164 SE G St.

Primary Phone: (541) 234-4425

Primary Rep: LJ Norman

Email: LJ@ljnorman.com

Website: https://normandesigncompany.com

Categories: Web/Internet Design & Online

Description:

At Norman Design Company, we offer a comprehensive range of services that integrate innovative design with environmental responsibility. Our goal is to help your business thrive while contributing to a sustainable future.

The

Toasted Barrel

Address: 2039 Redwood Avenue

Primary Phone: (541) 479-0222

Primary Rep: Tish Egan

Email: info@thetoastedbarreloregon.com

Website: https://www.thetoastedbarreloregon.com

Categories: Restaurants: Food & Beverages, Takeout/Delivery

Description:

The Toasted Barrel is Grants Pass’s go-to spot for great drinks, great vibes, and great company. Nestled in the Redwood area on the south side of the Rogue River, this cozy wine and whiskey bar offers more than just top-shelf spirits, enjoy live music, trivia nights, open mics, and a menu full of delicious bites. Sip a handcrafted cocktail or local wine while you relax on the expansive outdoor patio, complete with comfy seating and a live music stage.

Attentive Painting LLC

Address: Grants Pass

Primary Phone: (541) 218-8126

Primary Rep: Lonnan McIntyre

Email: lonnanmcintyre@gmail.com

Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Attentive-Painting-LLC-61578907330437/

Categories: Paint Contractor

Description:

Attentive Painting LLC, led by owner Lonnan McIntyre, is a skilled painting contractor based in Grants Pass with a mission to bring your personal style into your home. Licensed (CCB #257267) and backed by over a decade of experience, he excels in both interior and exterior. With a strong reputation for thoughtfulness, respect for your space, and quality craftsmanship, Attentive Painting offers tailored solutions to enhance your home’s look and durability.

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

Oregon Center for Creative Learning

Address: 110 SW 4th St

Primary Phone: (541) 772-9922

Primary Rep: Ashley Lukaris

Email: marketing@tcmso.org

Website: http://www.tcmso.org

Categories: Youth Organizations/Centers

Description:

The Oregon Center for Creative Learning (OCCL) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit operating The Children’s Museum of Southern Oregon and the Ivy School Preschool in Josephine and Jackson counties.

Hardline Tattoo Studio

Address: 840 NE 8th St

Primary Phone: (541) 761-1525

Primary Rep: Michael Sharrard

Email: mikesharrard@hardline-studio.com

Website: https://mailchi.mp/hardline-studio/signup

Categories: Personal Services - Spas / Nail & Hair Salons / Barbers / Tattoo Shops

Description:

With a foundation in traditional tattooing, Michael specializes in bold, clean designs rooted in classic Americana. However, his portfolio also reflects versatility across a range of styles, from black-and-grey realism to custom illustrative work. At Hardline, clients can expect a focused, one-on-one experience that prioritizes quality, detail, and artistic integrity in every piece.

Common Thread Consulting

Address: 4500 Redwood Vista Ln

Primary Phone: (541) 840-5127

Primary Rep: Susan Fischer-Maki

Email: susan@commonthreadllc.com

Website: https://commonthreadllc.com

Categories: Business Consultants & Development

Description:

Expert consulting, coaching, and strategy support grounded in a shared purpose. Together, we build the capacity and confidence needed to create lasting, community-rooted impact.

Pints N Wine Pourhouse

Address: 950 SW 6th St

Primary Phone: (541) 956-4127

Primary Rep: Casey Hatchman

Email: pintsnwinepourhouse@gmail.com

Website: http://facebook.com/pintsnwinepourhouse

Categories: Brewery/Distillery/Tap House/ Tasting Room

Description:

Pints N Wine Pourhouse is a relaxed and welcoming puband-bottle-shop located in downtown Grants Pass. They offer an inviting mix of craft beer, wine, mead, and snacks all under one roof. With rotating taps of local and regional brews, and a well-curated selection of wines and meads, this spot appeals to both beer aficionados and wine lovers alike.

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, Si Casa Flores, and Cartwright’s

In October, YPN hosted its Monthly Luncheon at the Hivve – Coworking & Venue, nestled in the heart of downtown. This versatile space perfectly complements our laid-back format, creating an inviting atmosphere for insightful discussions. Back by popular demand, Rogue Community College President, Randy Weber, Ed.D., led the conversation, focusing on all things related to college education. As a first-generation community college graduate, Randy shared his inspiring educational journey, which eventually led him to his current role. He recounted his experiences coaching women’s basketball and his path to earning a Doctorate in Education, along with his other notable degrees.

Since taking the helm in 2022, Randy has been instrumental in steering RCC in a promising direction. The college is proud to be the fastest-growing school in Oregon, boasting a 50% growth rate. Central to this success is RCC’s emphasis on access and achievement, driven largely by strategic partnerships.

Randy highlighted the importance of listening to community needs, investing in region-suited industries, and offering adaptable courses that reduce barriers to education. He emphasized that asking individuals to prioritize school over work is unrealistic; instead, RCC offers programs that allow students to balance both, setting them up for success.

RCC’s innovative educational offerings include dual credits, stackable credentials, internships, and expanded access to trades. These programs are designed to provide flexible pathways to success, catering to diverse student needs. Rogue Community College is recognized as Oregon’s only public “Opportunity College” by the Carnegie Foundation. The RCC Foundation awards over $1 million in scholarships and stipends annually, supporting a wide range of students—from high schoolers taking partnering courses to individuals seeking career advancement or continued education credits. Their commitment to providing numerous programs ensures that students have ample opportunities.

The luncheon with Randy Weber offered valuable insights into how RCC continues to adapt and thrive in response to community needs, further solidifying its role as a pivotal educational institution in the region.

As always, this event was FREE to attend and included lunch. If you enjoy attending our events, please consider supporting the Young Professionals Network through sponsorship. Sponsoring is an excellent way to expand your marketing footprint, and our community partners enable us to offer events at no cost. To learn more about the YPN or explore sponsorship opportunities, contact Christie Swafford at cswafford@grantspasschamber.org.

This month, we will be performing our Quarterly Trash-Clean up for Adopt-a-Street and also touring the Children’s Museum. Keep an eye on our Chamber Community Calendar for details and registration information. We also encourage everyone to follow us on social media and sign up for text alerts by texting GPYPN to 38316.

Eric’s Tree Service LLC

Family Nurturing Center

First American Title Company

Gallop ‘n Glitz

GPHS Band and Guard Boosters

Grants Pass School District 7

Guild Mortgage

Habitat for Humanity, Grants Pass Area

Hill Dentistry

Hillcrest Memorial Park

Hull & Hull Funeral Directors

John L. Scott Real Estate Grants Pass

KDRV - TV

La Quinta Inn & Suites

Marzi Sink Factory

Mid Rogue Imaging Center

Mock’s Ford Sales Inc.

Old Town Mail House

Our Foster Kids

Pacific Living Centers South LLC

Pacific Office Automation

Pepsi Beverages Company

Plaisance Ranch

Provolt Country Store & Deli

Rare Find A Boutique Social

RCC Small Business Development Center

Robyn Lasky Oregon Broker @ RE/MAX Integrity

Roe Motors GM

Rogue Cleaners & Laundromat

Rogue River Outfitters

Sespe Consulting, Inc.

Southern Oregon ESD

Southern Oregon Orthopedics

Sunny Valley Campground

SunShine Solar Inc

Swissmetric, Inc

The Perfect Bite

TMT Business Services, Inc.

Tom Randall Insurance - State Farm

Trahern Real Estate Appraisal, PC

Tuckers Barbershop

US Bank

Valvoline Instant Oil Change

WaFd Bank - City Centre Branch

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 ~ “Dollar Mountain Trail System ~ Sat, Nov 1st; “Slightly Stationary” ~ Tues, Nov 4th, “The Toasted Barrel” ~ Fri, Nov 7th; “Farmhouse Networking” ~ Tues, Nov 18th

Grant Smithing 101 ~ Nov 18th, 9:00 PM - 12:00 PM ; Thanksgiving, Chamber Closed Nov 27th & 28th

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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce Newsletter: November 2025 by Grants Pass & JoCo Chamber of Commerce - Issuu