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

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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

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

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: • Rotary: First Crush • Grants Pass Downs • • Troon: Sunday Summer Market • Director Mortgage •

& Josephine County Chamber of Commerce ~

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

June brings with it the vibrant sounds of community, connection, and celebration as Concerts in the Park returns to Riverside Park! These free weekly concerts are more than just entertainment—they’re a reminder of how our public spaces can unite us. Riverside Park becomes our shared backyard, where families gather, friends reconnect, and visitors experience the heartbeat of Grants Pass. We’re thrilled to bring the music back to this iconic location and celebrate the power of place.

Events like these aren’t just enjoyable—they’re economic drivers. They create opportunities for local vendors, increase foot traffic to downtown businesses, and give tourists a reason to stay a little longer. When we support these shared community experiences, we’re making strategic investments in the health and vibrancy of our local economy. We’re cultivating a community that values connection, creativity, and a thriving quality of life.

This June, I’m also proud to share that the Chamber is welcoming a Digital Innovation Intern through our partnership with Project Youth +. Rubi is a 17-year-old student entering her senior year of high school, and she’ll be contributing to our communications, deployment of technology, digital outreach, and learning firsthand about how the Chamber serves our business community.

We believe our youth are among the most powerful assets in shaping the future of our workforce. By providing opportunities for hands-on learning, mentorship, and civic engagement, we’re planting seeds that will strengthen our region for years to come. The future of Josephine County is bright when we invest in those who will lead it.

Be sure to watch future newsletters for a monthly column written by our intern, where she’ll share insights from her experience at the Chamber. We’re excited to amplify her voice and support her journey.

Let’s make this summer one to remember— see you at the concerts!

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

June 2025

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

June 4th

Fruitdale Grange Foundation

Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.

June 11th

National Business Solutions The Hivve • 164 SE G Street

June 18th

Glass Forge Gallery & Studio 501 SW G Street

June 25th

Weekend Beer Company 1863 NW Washington Blvd

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/

Emcee- Jill Hamm, Grants Pass Broadcasting

Ricky Reebul, Partake Shop, Lounge & Dine

Emcee- Mark Stutzman, Farmer’s Building Supply

Learning with The Library Library Resources to

Level Up At Your Library: 2025 Summer Reading Program

All ages are invited to join the free Josephine Community Library Summer Reading Program from June 14 – August 9. To join and earn prizes, register anytime beginning June 1 online at josephinelibrary.org or at a branch in Grants Pass, Illinois Valley, Williams, or Wolf Creek. Don’t miss out on weekly themed crafts for children on open days.

Library events are offered at no charge and are open to the public. A library card is not needed to participate.

Visit a library branch near you - Grants Pass Branch, Williams Branch, Illinois Valley Branch or the Wolf Creek Branch.

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.

asantefoundation.org/spears/

Monty, Grateful patient, Brookings, Ore.
Learn more and view Monty’s story online:

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 more to come!

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

Rogue 201 NE Savage Street Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 244-2197

WellSpring 1716 Williams Highway Grants Pass, OR 97527 (541) 474-6053

June 24th

Elegance Antiques

A Family Journey at Elegance Antiques: From Yard Sales to a Treasure Trove

Growing up, my mom and I were no strangers to the thrill of flea markets and yard sales. Since 2017, we became passionate about uncovering hidden gems at estate sales and auctions. Armed with our meticulous yard sale routes, we were the first in line at 0-dark-thirty, eager to seize the best finds. Our dedicated hunt often led to frantic calls to my husband: “Bring the truck and trailer!” God bless him, he patiently helped us store our treasures in a rented storage unit when our homes overflowed.

One fateful day, while grabbing lunch, we spotted a “For Rent” sign in a commercial building on 6th Street. My husband jokingly suggested we should open our own shop to sell our amassed treasures. Little did we know, he took it seriously! He jotted down the number, called, and set up an appointment to visit the very same day. As luck would have it, the building was the former location of Elegance Antiques, and I felt goosebumps just stepping inside.

After meeting the owner, my mom and I decided to seize the opportunity right away. Just like in the old days, we shook hands, and she handed us the keys, saying, “We’ll settle the papers later.” Thus, Elegance II was born, honoring the legacy of the former antique store that had thrived for nearly 30 years.

Fast forward eight years, and Elegance Antiques is now a charming blend of vintage and contemporary items, celebrating history and creativity. You will find mom in her office researching and pricing as I’m out on the sales floor, merchandising and greeting everyone. We invite you to explore our unique collection, where there’s truly something for everyone. Join us at Elegance Antiques in Historic Downtown Grants Pass and experience the joy of discovering treasures while being part of our family's legacy of love and laughter. It’s an absolute blast working together as we create something truly special!

Working to Connect the Community through Shared Ideas: The Intern, the job, and the workforce

Harmonious discord. That’s what I would describe the last couple weeks of school. Things have been so busy, so crazy, yet everything’s falling into place, and I couldn’t be happier. When I was emailed about the possibility of being a digital innovation intern, I was absolutely ecstatic!

My dream job is to be a freelance graphic design artist, a perfect merger for my creative soul and the constantly evolving technological world. After all, images are how we communicate. However, due to a lack of opportunities to build a proper portfolio, I hadn’t been quite sure how to start.

This was my wardrobe, the entrance to Narnia, it was a golden opportunity I couldn’t miss. So I sent in my application, and prepared myself for a long wait. I was surprised to get a call after only two days, and with hope in my chest, scheduled an interview a week later.

I’ve been in the office three times now, and I already feel like I’m growing accustomed to my spot for the summer. The GPJC Chamber building has such wonderful, welcoming staff, and with such a nice A.C system in place, I think I’ll be settling in quite nicely.

That isn’t to say however, that I’ll just be coasting by– On the contrary, I’m already being assigned projects I’ll be working on for my first month and throughout the summer that I’m more than happy to tackle! My first, official event will be coming up very soon. I’ll keep you posted.

CASA FLORES

225 Rogue River Hwy

1400 Redwood Circle

113 SW H Street

Business After Hours
Hosted By: Director’s Mortgage
The Pointe at Cascades of GP
Bahl Hornin!
The Mixed Grill

Legislative Update: Protecting Business Interests

We are in the final month of the legislative session. The session must adjourn by Sunday June 29th. All policy committees are closed with the exception of Joint Ways and Means, Joint Tax Expenditures, and Joint Transportation Reinvestment, as well as the House and Senate Rules Committees and House and Senate Revenue Committees. Bills will start being assigned to the Ways & Means subcommittees which means they have been prioritized to move by leadership.

The hottest discussion right now centers on an emerging Transportation Package, with conversations and negotiations happening behind closed doors. There are also plenty of signs that a permanent wildfire funding infrastructure is the other main policy objective of the 2025 legislature. House Bill 3940 is the bill that attempts to create a permanent and dedicated source of funding to address increased costs associated with fighting wildfires.

We are also watching SB 426 [General Contractor/Property Owner Liability], SB 916 [ Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers], SB 1154 A[ Reforming Ground Water management], and HB 3962 [Changes in Allocation of Transient Lodging tax (TLT] -- Terry Hopkins, the Chamber CEO & President, is tesitifying in the Legislature on this bill today. A formal press release will be provided at a later date.

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

The Mixed Grill

Address: 225 Rogue River Hwy, Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 507-1047

Primary Contact: Janice Or Terry Wimmer

Email: mixedgrill2025@gmail.com

Website: http://www.themixedgrillgp.com

Category: Restaurants

Description:

We are a small local restaurant that offers American, authentic Chinese and Mexican food in one location!

Merlin Community Babtist Church

Address: 361 Galice Road, Merlin

Phone: (541) 476-3901

Primary Contact: Frank Matz

Email: merlinchurch@msn.com

Website: https://merlinchurch.org

Category: Church

Description:

Merlin Community Baptist Church, located in Merlin, Oregon, is a Christ-centered congregation committed to glorifying God through biblical teaching, heartfelt worship, and community service.

Founded in 1892, the church offers both traditional and contemporary worship services, aiming to reach diverse audiences and foster spiritual growth.

With a strong emphasis on youth and family ministries, the church actively engages in local outreach, including Vacation Bible School, community service projects, and support for various missions.

Umpqua Bank-Grants Pass Downtown

Address: 117 NE F Street, Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 479-1776

Primary Contact: Rachel Harris

Email: rachelharris@umpquabank.com

Website: http://www.umpquabank.com

Category: Bank

Description:

How can we help your business? Umpqua makes the hardest parts of running your business easier. With solutions to fit every need, we’ve got your back.

Apothi-Crow

Address: 131SW G Street, Grants Pass 97526

Phone: (541) 441-7160

Primary Contact: Felicia Just

Email: apothicrow@gmail.com

Website: https://www.apothi-crow.com/

Category: Specialties/ Gifts

Description:

At Apothi-Crow our goal is to showcase our local artisans and makers from Oregon to bring thoughtfully made natural products from soaps and body care to tinctures, salves, candles, jewelry, teas, hand dyed scarves and hand rolled or dipped incense. We have over 20 different talented makers currently spanning from Roseburg all the way to Talent! We craft products in house as well and offer space for hosting classes and events! Come in for a sniff!

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

Gouda Times LLC

Address: No Brick and Mortar

Phone: (541) 441-1480

Primary Contact: Kylie Baker

Email: GoudaTimesLLC@gmail.com

Website: http://www.goudatimesllc.com

Category: Caterers

Description:

Gouda Times is a locally owned business in Grants Pass specializing in handcrafted charcuterie boards and grazing tables that highlight the flavors of Southern Oregon. We take pride in sourcing local meats, cheeses, and produce to create visually stunning, delicious spreads perfect for any occasion— from casual get-togethers to weddings and corporate events. At Gouda Times, we believe food brings people together, and we’re honored to play a small role in your most memorable moments. Whether you’re hosting or gifting, our creations are made with care, creativity, and a love for our community.

Mad Dawgs

Address: Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 520-3150

Primary Contact: Terrance Dollar

Email: tdollar@mymaddawgs.com

Website: http://mymaddawgs.com

Category: Food Truck

Description:

Mad Dawgs is a mobile food cart that sells all beef hot dogs with a large selection of toppings. Quick, affordable, delicious.

Comprehensive Medical Fitness LLC

Address: 624 SE L Street, Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 761- 5200

Primary Contact: Brett Williams

Email: Comprehensive.medical.fitness@gmail.com

Website: http://www.comprehensivemedicalfitness.com

Category: Professional Services - Health Care

Description:

Comprehensive Medical Fitness was created to help bridge the gap between the medical world and the fitness world. By combining medical, pharmaceutical and personal training services in 1 location, we intend to create an environment that will maximize results. Instead of your “doctor” telling you to lose weight and exercise, your doctor will create a personalized fitness plan that employs pharmaceutical, nutritional, medical and fitness therapies based on your individual health needs. This will all be done in conjunction within a fitness facility offering a wide range of training modalities and 24-hour access.

Rogue Tech Pros

Address: 33 N Central Ave #308

Phone: (541) 299-2100

Primary Contact: Charlie Kirschenmann

Email: hello@roguetechpros.com

Website: http://www.roguetechpros.com

Category: Computer Software, network & Hardware Support

Description:

Rogue Tech Pros provides IT support, cybersecurity, and technology solutions tailored for small businesses right here in Southern Oregon. We take pride in keeping your systems secure and running smoothly—so you can focus on what you do best. As a locally owned business, we’re committed to serving and strengthening the communities where we live, work and play.

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

Rock & Timber LLC

Address: No Brick and Mortar

Phone: (541) 916-6142

Primary Contact: Dena Odle

Email: Info@rock-timber.com

Website: http://www.rock-timber.com

Category: Fire Protection Services

Description:

Rock and Timber is Southern Oregon’s wildfire mitigation expert, helping protect what matters most—your land, your home, and your peace of mind.

We specialize in creating defensible space zones that reduce wildfire risk, serving everyone from individual homeowners to large municipalities. Our team combines practical know-how with a deep respect for the land, bringing a handson, no-nonsense approach to fire preparedness. When it comes to safeguarding your property, we don’t just talk fire safety—we live it.

Birdie Juice Indoor Golf Company

Address: 505 SW 6th St STE G, Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 226-2335

Primary Contact: Tyler Pellham

Email: tpellham@birdiejuiceigc.com

Website: http://www.birdiejuiceigc.com

Category: Attraction/ Taphouse

Description:

Play indoor golf, year-round at Birdie Juice Indoor Golf Company!

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, and Wild River Pub

May was truly an extraordinary month for the Young Professionals Network (YPN), filled with activities that fostered community spirit, supported local youth, and encouraged professional growth. Here’s a glimpse into the exciting events that took place.

The month kicked off with our quarterly trash cleanup for the Adopt-a-Street program. This event has become one of our most popular functions participants not only helped maintain the beauty of our streets but also shared laughter and camaraderie. It’s an event we highly recommend—10 out of 10! Thank you to Republic Services for the donation of safety vests.

In an inspiring effort to support the next generation of professionals, our group awarded two local youths with $1,000 scholarships. These scholarships were given to deserving students, made possible by the generous support from our local sponsors and community partners. We are grateful for the opportunity to encourage and nurture emerging talent in our area.

Our month continued with an insightful meeting with Tamra Martin, the Director of the Josephine County Fairgrounds & Recreation Department. Tamra shared her background as a business owner for over 20 years and her motivation for joining the fairgrounds. With nearly seven years at the helm, she has navigated department mergers, funding changes, and staffing challenges. Tamra takes great pride in the economic impact the fairgrounds has on the county and is excited about the ongoing capital projects outlined in their Master Plan. Although we didn’t tour the entire 55 acres,

we were thrilled to see the freshly painted Pavilion and Arena, as well as the newly constructed outdoor space. Keep them in mind for your next event! A huge shout-out goes to Cartwrights for providing a super delicious lunch! Your continued support is greatly appreciated.

In June we will be doing our annual Volunteer Project at the Josephine County Food Bank. Working with them is always a good time. Following the volunteer portion, we will be treated to food by Si Casa and beverages from Weekend Beer Company.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.

Active Club, Grants Pass

Allstate - Kinzler & Co. Insurance & Financial

AMR Ambulance

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Rogue Valley

Browns Custom Window Coverings

Cascade Eyecare Center

Charles Rund

Day, Driver, Fournier & Reinhart, LLP

Diamond Cannabis

Dutch Bros

Essential Wellness Bodywork & Massage

Every Child

Floors To Go

Friends of Josephine County Fairgrounds

Frontier Properties

Giannelli’s A Taste of Italy

GoodFellas Towing

Grants Pass Golf Club

Grants Pass Rotary Club

Great Northwest Music

Grip N Grub

Hunter Communications, Inc.

Indoor Airman

Josephine County Historical Society

JW Computer Service

Nations Lending

New Hope Christian School

Parkway Christian Center

Partnerships in Community Living Inc.

Redwood Hyperion Suites

Rogue Community College Foundation

Seven Feathers Casino Resort

Si Casa Flores

Siskiyou Insurance Marketplace, Inc.

Siskiyou Pediatric Clinic, LLP

Southern Oregon Guild of Artists

Total Performance Sports Medicine

Wicks Emmett LLP

ZenBusiness

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 ~ Kairos (12th); Rob Reynolds (13th); Grants Pass Branch, Library (18th), Resolute Health (20th) Concerts In the Park, Opening Concert ~ June 10th

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