We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships! Volume 102 • Issue 1219 • July 2026
Page 12: 4th of July Food Truck Festival...
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
Sponsored
Month on Chamber Chatter:
Pass & 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
July is one of those months that reminds us why Grants Pass and Josephine County are such special places to live, work, visit, and do business. Summer is fully underway, our tourism season is here, and our community is alive with the energy that makes this region so unique.
We are proud to continue celebrating the 40-year anniversary of Concerts in the Park, a beloved tradition that brings families, friends, visitors, and neighbors together at Riverside Park for free live music and community connection. For four decades, this series has been more than entertainment. It has been a reflection of who we are as a community: welcoming, vibrant, and committed to creating shared experiences that strengthen our local economy and quality of life. A special thank you goes to Christie Swafford, the Chamber’s Programs and Events Manager, our Ambassadors, and the many volunteers who work hard behind the scenes to make this event possible for our community.
This summer also marks the return of a beloved car cruise tradition thanks to Main Street Grants Pass and their Cruise the Rogue event. Events like these bring people downtown, support local businesses, and remind us how much pride our community has in its history, character, and small-town charm.
At the Chamber, we are also excited by the strong response to our newly launched Chamber Health Insurance Benefits Program. Many local businesses are looking for ways to provide better benefits to employees while managing costs, and this program is already proving to be a valuable option for our members.
Our VentureHub Rogue Valley website is also up and running, and we are actively working to populate listings that connect entrepreneurs (speaking of entrepreneurs, registration is still open for Lemonade Day! Yea! ) with commercial spaces, business opportunities, and local investment potential. This is one more tool in our broader effort to support business growth and economic development throughout the Rogue Valley.
As we move through July, I hope we all take a moment to enjoy what is right outside our doors. We work, live, and do business in paradise. Get outside, support local, welcome our visitors, and celebrate the community we are fortunate to call home.
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
July 2026
Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00
July 1st
Main Street Grants Pass
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
July 8th
Lori Leach Wedding & Events
Fireside Event Center ~ 940 SE 8th St
July 15th
Banner Bank ~ North Branch 1409 NE 7th St
July 22nd BBSI
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
July 29th
Cascade Self Storage 2450 NW Vine St
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/
2026
Travis Warren
Outback Pool & Spa Operations Manager
Emcee- Terri Wiley, Evergreen Federal Bank Travis Warren, Outback Pool & Spa
Chamber Health Benefits Program Now Available
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
Learning with The Library Library
Plant a Seed, Read
2026 Summer Reading Program
All ages are invited to join the free Josephine Community Library Summer Reading Program from June 13 – 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 events and themed crafts for children on Saturdays during open hours.
Library events are offered at no charge and are open to the public. A library card is not
Explore how transportation systems have shaped mobility, equity, and civic participation in America during a presentation by Aron Klein, Operations Manager at Partnership for Safety & Justice.
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.
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
Giannelli’s A Taste of Italy
For nearly eight years, Giannelli's A Taste of Italy has been serving homemade Italian comfort food in Grants Pass, carrying on a family tradition that spans more than half a century in the local restaurant industry.
Located at 211 NE A Street since August 2018, Giannelli's is the realization of owner Sherry Wehab's dream to continue her family's culinary legacy. Many longtime residents may remember the original Giannelli's restaurant that operated on the corner of 7th and Park Street in the 1970s. Over the years, Sherry's family also owned several familiar local establishments, including PB's Good Food, Balboa's, Rocky B's, and The Woodshed.
After the passing of her parents, Sherry knew she wanted to keep that tradition alive by opening a restaurant of her own.
Step inside Giannelli's and you'll quickly discover that nearly everything is made from scratch. Sherry personally prepares the sauces, soups, meatballs, lasagna, cannoli, and fresh dough that is hand-rolled daily. It's a labor of love that reflects generations of family recipes and a commitment to quality. While the made-toorder approach can sometimes mean a little extra wait, guests know they're getting food crafted with care rather than pulled from a freezer.
The menu is packed with Italian favorites, including pasta dishes, pizza, calzones, stromboli, sandwiches, and desserts. The lasagna, served every Tuesday, remains one of the restaurant's most popular offerings, while "The Sicilian" sandwich has earned a loyal following with its generous stack of meats, cheeses, and toppings.
Sherry jokes that with her Sicilian mother and Lebanese father, she probably should have called the restaurant "A Taste of Sicily," noting that Sicilian cuisine has its own distinct identity. That family heritage can be felt throughout the restaurant, from the recipes to the old family photographs displayed on the walls. Visitors can even spot a framed "Best Sauce" award recognizing Sherri's winning entry in a family sauce competition.
Though cozy from the outside, Giannelli's also features a banquet room that can accommodate up to 20 guests, making it a hidden gem for small gatherings and celebrations.
As Giannelli's approaches its eighth anniversary in Grants Pass, it remains a reminder that some of the best meals are still made the oldfashioned way—by hand, with patience, and plenty of love. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner.
Rogue Community College (RCC) is no longer serving as the host of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). However, the Oregon SBDC Network will continue providing one-on-one business advising in our region and will announce its new local location and service details on July 6. Businesses needing assistance before then can email RogueValley@OregonSBDC.org to schedule a consultation.
RCC remains committed to supporting local businesses through its Community and Workforce Training Department by offering practical workforce development and professional education.
Current programs include Marketing: Local Search Strategie; Supervisory and Leadership Bootcamp; Strategic Hiring for Stronger Teams; Advanced Leadership Bootcamp with one-on-one coaching; QuickBooks Premier: Beginning; and Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) Pre-Licensing Training.
RCC also partners with businesses to develop customized training programs tailored to organizational needs. For more information, visit the RCC Course Catalog, call 541-956-7303, or email CommunityEducation@roguecc.edu.
RCC remains dedicated to strengthening Southern Oregon’s workforce and supporting the long-term success of local employers and businesses.
We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!
Southern Oregon!
We are less than one week away from The 4th of July Food Truck Festival and Food Drive, Saturday July 4th at Reinhart Volunteer Park Grants Pass Oregon.
Event begins at 3pm with bounce houses opening All Food Trucks open at 4pm
Dj Sean- Paul will be hyping up the crowd truck side
“A Ray Of Light” Dance Group Performance stage side at 7pm
Blaze-N-Monkey’s Free Booth opens at 7pm stage side
Speech 8:00pm
Concert 8:30pm [Opener]
Rabbit Dub
[Headliner] Alycon Massive
[Grand Finale] Fireworks
We encourage you to bring one non perishable non expired canned good and drop it by The Josephine County Food Bank booth.
“We are stronger together then we will ever be if we stand alone”.
Community Spotlight
Josephine County Fair: 250 Years of Heroes
Josephine County Fair: 250 Years of Heroes
By Audrey Roetling
By Audrey Roetling
The Josephine County Fair returns with free admission, family-friendly attractions, live entertainment, and a full week of community tradition celebrating the best of Southern Oregon.
The Josephine County Fair returns with free admission, family-friendly attractions, live entertainment, and a full week of community tradition celebrating the best of Southern Oregon.
The Josephine County Fair returns for its annual week of wonder. More than a seasonal spectacle, this time-honored tradition brings together residents and visitors alike, offering a vibrant taste of Southern Oregon that feels as fresh as ever.
The Josephine County Fair returns for its annual week of wonder. More than a seasonal spectacle, this timehonored tradition brings together residents and visitors alike, offering a vibrant taste of Southern Oregon that feels as fresh as ever.
The Josephine County Fair returns for its annual week of wonder. More than a seasonal spectacle, this timehonored tradition brings together residents and visitors alike, offering a vibrant taste of Southern Oregon that feels as fresh as ever.
The Josephine County Fair opens its gates with free admission every day, running from Wednesday, July 29th, through Sunday, August 2nd. This year’s fair promises an array of lively entertainment, including nightly concerts on the fair’s main stage, daily barnyard races, and Power’s Circus—all at no cost to the public. Families can also enjoy educational exhibits from local 4H, FFA, and Youth & AG clubs, plus hands-on agricultural demonstrations, making it an event for all ages.
The Josephine County Fair opens its gates with free admission every day, running from Wed., Jul. 29, through Sun., Aug. 8. This year’s fair promises an array of lively entertainment, including nightly concerts on the fair’s main stage, daily barnyard races, and Power’s Circus—all at no cost to the public. Families can also enjoy educational exhibits from local 4H, FFA, and Youth & AG clubs, plus hands-on agricultural demonstrations, making it an event for all ages.
The Josephine County Fair opens its gates with free admission every day, running from Wed., Jul. 29, through Sun., Aug. 8. This year’s fair promises an array of lively entertainment, including nightly concerts on the fair’s main stage, daily barnyard races, and Power’s Circus—all at no cost to the public. Families can also enjoy educational exhibits from local 4H, FFA, and Youth & AG clubs, plus hands-on agricultural demonstrations, making it an event for all ages.
Festivities kick off on Wednesday, July 29th, with the much-anticipated return of the McCaslin Rough Stock Rodeo. Classic rodeo competition, featuring both bronc and bull riding, will offer an action-packed evening for the whole family.
Festivities kick off on Wed., Jul. 29, with the much-anticipated return of the McCaslin Rough Stock Rodeo. Classic rodeo competition, featuring both bronc and bull riding, will offer an action-packed evening for the whole family.
Festivities kick off on Wed., Jul. 29, with the much-anticipated return of the McCaslin Rough Stock Rodeo. Classic rodeo competition, featuring both bronc and bull riding, will offer an action-packed evening for the whole family.
On Thursday, July 30th, excitement hits a high note as multi-platinum country artist Clay Walker takes the main stage at 8:30 p.m., with opening act Cody Ponder performing at 7 p.m. Concertgoers can expect a high-energy performance filled with fan favorites and new hits, along with chances to snag exclusive fair merchandise. Clay Walker, known for chart-toppers like “What’s It to You,” “Live Until I Die,” and “If I Could Make a Living,” is sure to deliver a memorable night of music.
On Thurs., Jul. 30, excitement hits a high note as multi-platinum country artist Clay Walker takes the main stage at 8:30 p.m., with opening act Cody Ponder performing at 7 p.m. Concertgoers can expect a high-energy performance filled with fan favorites and new hits, along with chances to snag exclusive fair merchandise. Clay Walker, known for chart-toppers like “What’s It to You,” “Live Until I Die,” and “If I Could Make a Living,” is sure to deliver a memorable night of music.
On Thurs., Jul. 30, excitement hits a high note as multi-platinum country artist Clay Walker takes the main stage at 8:30 p.m., with opening act Cody Ponder performing at 7 p.m. Concertgoers can expect a high-energy performance filled with fan favorites and new hits, along with chances to snag exclusive fair merchandise. Clay Walker, known for chart-toppers like “What’s It to You,” “Live Until I Die,” and “If I Could Make a Living,” is sure to deliver a memorable night of music.
As the fair draws to a close, Friday, July 31st and Saturday, August 1st will feature the adrenaline-pumping Monster X Tour. These incredible 10,000-pound car-crushing giants will compete in races, wheelie contests, and freestyle action. Fans will also have the unique opportunity to see the monster trucks up close at the end of each show.
As the fair draws to a close, Fri., Jul. 31 and Sat., Aug. 1 will feature the adrenaline-pumping Monster X Tour. These incredible 10,000-pound car-crushing giants will compete in races, wheelie contests, and freestyle action. Fans will also have the unique opportunity to see the monster trucks up close at the end of each show.
As the fair draws to a close, Fri., Jul. 31 and Sat., Aug. 1 will feature the adrenaline-pumping Monster X Tour. These incredible 10,000-pound car-crushing giants will compete in races, wheelie contests, and freestyle action. Fans will also have the unique opportunity to see the monster trucks up close at the end of each show.
From nostalgic carnival festivities to thrilling live events, the Josephine County Fair invites everyone to celebrate the best of Southern Oregon. Do not miss this week of wonder, tradition, and community spirit—there is something for everyone at the fair!
From nostalgic carnival festivities to thrilling live events, the Josephine County Fair invites everyone to celebrate the best of Southern Oregon. Do not miss this week of wonder, tradition, and community spirit—there is something for everyone at the fair!
From nostalgic carnival festivities to thrilling live events, the Josephine County Fair invites everyone to celebrate the best of Southern Oregon. Do not miss this week of wonder, tradition, and community spirit—there is something for everyone at the fair!
Do not miss this week of wonder, tradition, and community spirit.
Do not miss this week of wonder, tradition, and community spirit.
Community Spotlight
The Lonely Pine 130 SE G Street
Celebrating 1 yr Anniversary!
Navigating Local Governance
Roughly one month ago, I began my internship with the Grants Pass and Josephine County Chamber of Commerce. During this time, I have had the privilege of expanding my understanding of local government and the Chamber’s integral role within the community. One of the most impactful aspects of my experience has been accompanying Chamber President and CEO Terry Hopkins to a variety of meetings, including those of the Government Affairs Committee, Foundation Board, County Commission, Chamber Board of Directors, Board for Visit Grants Pass, and City Council.
Through these meetings, I have gained insight into the economic, environmental, social, and political workings of the community. A particularly notable issue has been the controversy surrounding nickel mining and its potential impact on the Rogue River and Illinois Valley—a matter that ultimately hinges on mining laws from 1872.
I also observed the City Council Workshop, where the formation of a new municipal court system was being discussed. Witnessing the early stages of this process highlighted the transition Grants Pass is making from being one of only four Oregon cities without a Municipal Court to being able to adjudicate more cases locally each year.
Additionally, I have had the opportunity to see behind the scenes at the local radio station and to assist with Concerts in the Park. These experiences revealed just how much coordination and effort go into city-wide advertising and organizing events that engage the entire community.
Overall, my internship has given me a more comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of the community and has awakened in me a curiosity to learn more about civic protocol. I am eager to become more informed about how issues are addressed and how others are guided by political efficacy.
Pictured from Left to Right: Audrey Roetling, Josephine County CommissionersColene Martin, Gary Richardson, Ron Smith
~ Audrey Roetling, Chamber PY+Intern
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
Sherlock Homes Plumbing
Address: 240 Janice Way Merlin, OR
Primary Phone: 541-660-0101
Primary Rep: Ashton Petkus
Email: info@sherlockhomes.plumbing
Website: http://www.sherlockhomes.plumbing
Categories: Plumbers
Description:
Here at sherlock homes plumbing, we pride ourselves on being professional, punctual, honest, & meeting the needs of our customers, no matter what.
We offer exceptional residential & commercial plumbing/drain cleaning services for those in the Rogue Valley. Have a remodel or new construction project? Give us a call we would love to come take a look at it!
Meade Surveying
Address: 233 NE B St. Ste 200
Primary Phone: 541-244-1871
Primary Rep: Dane Meade
Email: dane@meadesurveying.com
Website: http://www.meadesurveying.com
Categories: Site Development/Excavation Contractors
Description:
For most property owners, their property is the most valuable asset they own. Like any other asset, it must be protected. Knowing the bounds of your property and the extent of your rights within those bounds is a vital component of this protection, and no one is more qualified to provide you with this knowledge than a Professional Land Surveyor.
Amazon Hub Partners
Address: Grants Pass, OR
Primary Phone: 541-821-3057
Primary Rep: Todd Hobbs
Email: tomhobbs@amazon.com
Website: https://hub-delivery.amazon
Categories: Shipping/Freight Carrier/Trucking
Description:
Earn up to $30k* in extra revenue for your business. Deliver Amazon packages in your community on a schedule that works for you.
Contact Todd to learn more today!
Affordable At Home Care
Address: 945 Town Center Dr. Ste C Medford
Primary Phone: 458-225-9660
Primary Rep: Kayla Bailey
Email: kbailey@affordableathomecare.com
Website: http://www.affordableathomecare.com
Categories: Health Care - Professional Services
Description:
For contractors and developers, hiring a land surveyor to determine property lines and accurately layout improvements provides added piece of mind.
There comes a time in each of our lives when we or our loved ones need medical assistance.
If you or your loved ones are facing health problems, be they temporary or chronic, it may be time to reach out for help.
Affordable At Home Care is your number one source for home caregiving services. Contact us today and see how we can be of assistance.
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
Jordan Power Plus, LLC.
Address: 618 NE Greenfield Dr. Grants Pass, OR
Primary Phone: 541-218-4580
Primary Rep: Cassandra Chamberlain
Email: cassandra.chamberlain.jpp@gmail.com
Website: http://jordanpowerplus.com
Categories: Utilities
Description:
Protect your home from the risks caused by sudden power outages with a generator from Generac, the industry leader, installed by the experts at Jordan Power Plus LLC. In the event of a power failure, these reliable systems automatically start up, supplying electricity to your home until the local power utility restores service. Permanent installation of a standby generator is not a do-it-yourself project. Jordan Power Plus LLC. has factory-trained technicians who meet Generac’s high standards for service and customer satisfaction. Our service professionals meet warranty conditions, ensure safe and proper operation, and are always here to provide Emergency Assistance, 7 days a week. We dispatch technicians quickly, and our team is equipped to resolve most repairs right then and there.
Shreeve Insurance
Address: 107 E Main St. Ste 7 Medford, OR
Primary Phone: 541-499-0357
Primary Rep: Melissa Shreeve
Email: melissa@shreeveinsurance.com
Website: https://www.shreeveinsurance.com
Categories: Insurance Services
Description:
John Sittel Propriety
Address: PO Box 610 Grants Pass, OR 97528
Primary Rep: John Sittel
Email: johnsittel@outlook.com
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/John-Sittel-Propriety-Home-Page-61560522580450/
Categories: Business Consultants & Development
Description:
Propriety & Journalism
Mark Jones
Address: Grants Pass, OR
Primary Phone: 541-702-7953
Primary Rep: Mark Jones
Email: jocomjones@gmail.com
Website: https://electmarkjones.com
Categories: Political – PAC/Candidate
Description:
Melissa Shreeve, with Shreeve Insurance, has been successfully meeting the needs of clients (mainly behind the scenes) for over 16 years in the insurance industry and decided to start her own agency in 2020. We’ve grown our successful insurance agency from the ground up, and accumulated years of experience to bring our clients complete peace of mind.
As an insurance agency focused primarily on Medicare insurance planning and MORE, we understand how confusing and complicated the topic of Medicare and other insurance can be. My business is built on client referrals and the foundation of customer loyalty and trust, aiming to develop long-term relationships with clients to provide them with the support and guidance they need, no matter what life throws at them.
My involvement in county government goes beyond attending meetings. How I currently serve:
• Josephine County Rural Planning Commission, Commissioner and Chair.
• Josephine Housing & Community Dev. Council, Vice Chair
• Local fire district, Board Member.
I believe public service means showing up, doing the work, and being accountable to the people you represent. Josephine County is not just where I live—it is home. It is where I grew up, where I built the foundation of my life, and where I chose to return after my career because I care deeply about the future of this community. I believe our county deserves leadership that listens to the people, respects property rights, values responsible government, and focuses on practical solutions rather than politics.
Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members
Whitetail Properties Real Estate
Address: 164 SE G St. Grants Pass, OR 97526
Primary Phone: 541-291-5601
Primary Rep: Derek Hotchkiss
Email: derek.hotchkiss@whitetailproperties.com
Website: https://www.whitetailproperties.com/
Categories: Real Estate Brokers, Principals, & Offices
Description:
Whitetail
Properties was founded in 2007, but that’s not where we started. Our real estate company known for our laser like focus on buying and selling land was born from something as old as the soil itself: man’s connection to it. For those who seek land ownership, many recognize within themselves a need to know a property well. Really well. There’s an unspoken yearning to test yourself against the land, live off the land and, even, be accepted by it. That human need blends into the DNA of Whitetail Properties. We were founded by hunters, farmers and rural landowners. Our real estate agents are known as Land Specialists. Our tireless commitment to helping buyers and sellers of land achieve their goals and reach their dreams with unmatched service. Our passion and the way we serve others reflects the rural lifestyle we live.
Rogue Media Solutions
Verizon Business
Address: Grants Pass, OR 97526
Primary Phone: 541-844-5481
Primary Rep: Andrew McGarry
Email: Andrew.mcgarry@verizonwireless.com
Website: http://verizon.com/business
Categories: Telephone & Internet Providers, Cellular Phone Service
Description:
Providing Grants Pass with Local 5G internet and Wireless communication tools for Small/Med Business. What does your business relationship with Andrew Look like? Dedicated, proactive, and customized approach to managing your Verizon Business account. Direct Access: Skip automated menus. Text or email Andrew directly for responses in minutes.
Cost Optimization: We monitor your data patterns and proactively switch you to cheaper, modern plans to ensure the best value.
Custom Tech Setup: We analyze your layout, signal strength, and workflow to build custom solutions like vehicle tracking or remote security. Dedicated Advocacy: Andrew fights for you behind the scenes, resolving billing issues or logistics delays quickly.
The Bottom Line: Your day-to-day is your customers; Andrew’s day-to-day is you.
Advocacy Update: Prosperity Requires Action
The Governor’s Prosperity Council has now completed its work and released recommendations aimed at improving Oregon’s economic trajectory. The report identifies 10 priority recommendations and reflects concerns employers have raised for years, including taxes, permitting delays, regulatory burdens, industrial land readiness, and stronger alignment between education, workforce, and economic development.
For local employers, the real question is not whether these ideas are new. The question is whether state leaders are finally willing to act on what small businesses have been saying all along.
The recommendations call for more competitive tax policies, Corporate Activity Tax and estate tax reforms, enforceable statewide permitting timelines, a 20% reduction in regulatory and administrative burdens by 2029, modernization of industrial and em-
ployment land policies, and replacing the Climate Protection Program with a market-based Cap and Invest program.
Too often, Oregon’s economic debates frame business as if it means only large corporations. That misses the reality in communities like ours. Our economy is built by small employers, family businesses, local entrepreneurs, and job creators who hire our neighbors, support local nonprofits, and reinvest here at home.
Good-paying jobs, employee benefits, and community investment do not happen by accident. They come from businesses healthy enough to grow. When taxes, fees, and regulations make it harder to operate, local employers and families feel it first.
The Council’s report is clear that incremental change will not be enough. Oregon cannot build prosperity by repeating the same policy mistakes. The Chamber will continue advocating for reforms that make it easier to do business, invest locally, and build a stronger economic future for Southern Oregon.
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 kicked off summer by continuing the tradition of our annual service project at the Josephine County Food Bank. This is always a fun and rewarding experience for our group.
Outreach Coordinator, Patrice Hanlon, had several tasks ready for us to tackle. While sorting food, checking dates, and filling boxes may not sound exciting, our group thoroughly enjoys it. Such simple actions create a huge benefit for our community. The Food Bank plays an essential role in addressing food insecurity in the valley, with a large portion of its beneficiaries being vulnerable groups like senior citizens and children. Under the leadership of Executive Director Josephine Sze, the Food Bank feeds in excess of 21,000 people each month.
It was a pleasure to meet the newest team members, JoAnn Stevens and Jordy Travis. Having a solid team creates an environment that fosters collaboration and efficiency. The volunteering portion is the main draw; however, it’s always fun to follow up with a networking social. A special shout-out to our food sponsors, Blaze-N-Monkey’s, for the delicious burgers, fries and ginormous hand-dipped corndogs. Of course, no social would be complete without Weekend Beer Company’s refreshing beverages.
Our commitment to these service projects reflects our dedication to fostering strong community ties. We are thankful to be able to continue to support the Food Bank, our group came in tow with 99lbs of food to donate the day of the event. Participating in such initiatives not only allows us to give back but also strengthens our camaraderie as a network. We are grateful to everyone who contributes to these efforts and to those who continually support our mission to make a positive impact in our community.
With July being such a busy time, we have made the decision to not host an event. However, we are eagerly anticipating a productive August filled with opportunities to engage and contribute to our community. We will be hosting our Adopt-A-Street Trash Cleanup and Professional Development. 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.
Annelies VandenBerg Skincare
Bill’s Glass & Windshield - Grants Pass
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Rogue Valley
BUGS Northwest
Caveman Travel
City Hall
Comprehensive Medical Fitness LLC
Don’s Bike Center
Friends of the Oregon Caves & Chateau
Fruitdale Grange #379
Galice Resort
Giannelli’s A Taste of Italy
Grants Pass Equipment Rentals
Holiday Inn Express
Horizon Commercial Realty Group, KW Commercial
Keller Williams Southern Oregon
Insurance Lounge
JL Insurance, LLC
Latitude Wine Tours
New Hope Christian School
Orange Torpedo Trips
Revolution Benefits Group
Rogue Birth Center LLC
Saigon Xich Lo
Southern Oregon School of Music
Team Senior Referral Services
The Suites Assisted Living & Memory Care
Women’s Crisis Support Team
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
