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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce Newsletter: April 2026

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We support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy and partnerships!

Page 12: We thrive because of our Volunteers...

MChamber Membership

An Investment in Your Business and Our Community!

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

Lowell Gibson- NiceBadge

Executive Board of Directors

CHAIR/Donnie Garnett - Evergreen

CHAIR ELECT/ Meghan Boehm - SO Aspire

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

Every 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

Steve Roe - Director

There are certain traditions that define a community. In Grants Pass and Josephine County, Concerts in the Park is one of them.

This summer marks the 40th anniversary of this incredible series—four decades of families gathering along the Rogue River, kids dancing in the grass, neighbors reconnecting, and visitors experiencing firsthand what makes this place so special. What began as a simple idea has grown into one of the most recognizable and cherished community events in Southern Oregon.

As a Chamber of Commerce, people sometimes ask why we invest our time and energy into producing an event like this. The answer is simple: strong communities create strong economies.

Events like Concerts in the Park are more than entertainment. They are economic drivers. They bring people into our community, support local businesses, and contribute to the overall vitality that makes Grants Pass a place where people want to live, work, and invest. They help tell our story—not just to visitors, but to ourselves.

Just as importantly, they create connection. In a time when it is easy to become disconnected, these Tuesday nights in the park remind us of the power of simply being together. That sense of belonging is not just good for the soul—it is essential for a thriving business community.

What makes Concerts in the Park even more special is that it remains a free, family-friendly event. That accessibility matters. It ensures that every member of our community, regardless of circumstance, can participate in something that brings joy, culture, and connection.

Of course, an event of this scale does not happen by accident. It is made possible entirely through the generous support of sponsors who believe in this community as much as we do. Their investment allows us to keep the concerts free, support local artists, and continue building something that benefits everyone.

Month on Chamber Chatter:

As we celebrate 40 years, we are also looking ahead. If your business is looking for a meaningful way to give back, increase visibility, and be part of something truly special, I invite you to join us as a sponsor this year. Your support directly impacts the success of this event and the vibrancy of our community.

Forty years is something to celebrate —but it is also something to build upon.

We look forward to seeing you in the park this summer.

Terry Hopkins President & CEO, Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce 541-956-4100

thopkins@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
Cover Photo: Chris Heglin, Chamber Ambassador

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

April 2026

Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting

Meeting Time: 8:00

April 1st

Josephine County Food Bank

Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.

April 8th

Outback Pool & Spa 555 NE F Street

April 15th

Rogue Roasters

Redwood Grange ~ 1830 Redwood Ave

April 22nd

Soroptimist

Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.

April 29th

Property Management Group of OR The Hivve ~ 164 NE 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/

Jennifer Conner Farmer’s Building Supply
Emcee- Terri Wiley, Evergreen Federal Bank
Jennifer Connor, Farmer’s Building Supply
Emcee- Doug Bradley, Holiday Inn Express
April 2026

Learning with The Library

Library Resources to help Grow your Business!

a New Language with Transparent Language

Transparent Language Online is the library’s new language-learning resource, offering pronunciation practice with speech analysis, grammar and writing activities, vocabulary-building exercises, and a dedicated Kids section with engaging, age-appropriate games. Free with your library card and accessible on desktop or mobile devices, it makes language learning easy at home or on the go.

The care you need when you need it.

Find Transparent Language in the ONLINE LEARNING RESOURCES section under the EDUCATION/RESEARCH menu at http://www.JosephineLibrary.org

For questions, email info@josephinelibrary.org or call 541-476-0571.

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

WellSpring 1716

Grants Pass, OR 97527 (541) 474-6053

Mountainview 741 NE 6th Street Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 471-2701 Rogue 201 NE Savage Street Grants Pass, OR 97526 (541) 244-2197

Oregon’s 2026 short legislative session moved quickly but carried significant implications for the business community. In just 35 days, lawmakers navigated a $360 million deficit, ultimately balancing the budget through a combination of new taxes, policy changes, and targeted investments—while advancing legislation that will impact everything from local lodging taxes and workforce regulations to economic development and environmental policy. The session was marked by increased taxation, shifting priorities around tourism funding, and a complex mix of wins and challenges for Oregon employers. To better understand how these decisions may affect your business and our regional economy, we encourage you to review the full report here:

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.

Learn more and view

Monty’s story online: asantefoundation.org/spears/

Monty, Grateful patient, Brookings, Ore.

CODE 4 Taphouse

Code 4 Taphouse is a community-focused Taphouse built on the values of service, connection, and resilience. Founded by a former law enforcement deputy, the name “Code 4” — meaning all clear — represents a place where people can relax, enjoy themselves, and feel taken care of. When the business was first acquired, the vision was clear: transform the space into a highenergy, welcoming taphouse that blends a neighborhood feel with elevated drinks and experiences.

Initially, the remodel was expected to take just a few weeks. Like many real projects, it turned into a much longer process, taking a full year to fully bring the vision to life. From redesigning the layout to upgrading the bar, improving flow, and building out the overall atmosphere, every detail was carefully refined to create a space that stands out while still feeling comfortable and familiar.

Today, Code 4 Taphouse is known not just for its craft beer selection and creative cocktails, but for its strong lineup of events that keep the community engaged. Guests can enjoy lively Lotería nights, highenergy karaoke, and a growing brunch program that brings people together during the weekends. The taphouse also hosts themed nights, special events, and entertainment designed to create consistent energy and memorable experiences.

More than just a bar, Code 4 Taphouse is a gathering place — where good drinks, great people, and a sense of community come together under one roof.

Code 4 Taphouse • (541) 476-1775 •code4taphouse.com

Saturday, 9th of May 2026

Wine Stroll Stroll

2:00pm to 6:00pm

Join us Mother’ s Day weekend for the valleys premier walking wine tour.

owntown businesses host wineries, vendors and yummy bites. Participants stroll from location to location sampling delicious varietals and delectable food!

Pre-Sale

Pre-Sale

Day-Of

Expand your professional network and strengthen your visibility in the community -- Apply to be a Chamber Ambassador! Open to all Chamber Members!

The Chamber Ambassador Committee is one of the most visible and rewarding ways to get involved in the Grants Pass & Josephine County business community. Ambassadors serve as the welcoming team for the Chamber—connecting with local businesses, celebrating ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings, and helping host events like Business for Breakfast and Business After Hours. It’s a chance to be at the center of the conversations and relationships that help our local business community thrive.

Ambassadors are business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals who enjoy being out in the community representing both their organization and the Chamber. If you enjoy meeting people, building connections, and helping new businesses feel supported and welcomed, this group offers a fun and meaningful way to do it.

If you enjoy connection, community, and making a positive impact, the Ambassador Committee may be the perfect place for you. Contact the Chamber for an application today!

Rogue Sole & Style 229 SW G St , STE A

Sponsor Application

Concerts in the Park 2026

Tuesdays, June - July 6:30p

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Print and Media Marketing W/Logo

• Logo on Website Sponsor Page

• Logo on Sponsor Banner

• All Nights 10 x 10 Space at Concerts

• 1 Concert Stage Introduction

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• Included in Print and Media Marketing W/Logo

• Logo on Website Sponsor Page

Your Brand Through Sponsorship! Join us in supporting and promoting local commerce as a sponsor of our events! By partnering with the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce, you will help us fulfill our mission of communication, advocacy, and partnerships that benefit our community. Our iconic events attract enthusiastic attendees, offering a prime opportunity to enhance your brand recognition. With limited Platinum and Premier sponsorships available, your business can shine as a leader in local support and engagement. Let’s work together to showcase your commitment to our community's prosperity!

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

My Event Nanny

Address: Grants Pass, Medford, Ashland

Primary Phone: 541-292-7271

Primary Rep: Becky Vaughn-Masters

Email: becky@myeventnanny.com

Website: http://myeventnanny.com

Categories: Child care

Description:

My Event Nanny provides trusted, on-location childcare for weddings and special events throughout Southern Oregon, including Grants Pass, Medford, Ashland, and the surrounding Rogue Valley. Specializing in private, on-site care for children ages 0–8, My Event Nanny offers a safe, stress-free experience for families attending celebrations. Whether you need direct care for infants and toddlers, a play space chaperone for pre-school aged and older children, or an engaging playscape to entertain tiny VIP’s during a special occasion, My Event Nanny delivers reliable, professional support so you can fully enjoy your day—knowing your little ones are cared for just steps away.

Cine Studios,

LLC

Address: Rogue Valley

Primary Phone: 541-613-5240

Primary Rep: Gabriel Adams

Email: cinestudios.gabe@gmail.com

Website: https://cinestudiosllc.org

Categories: Video Production

Description:

Video Marketing agency that helps business owners get more leads & clients

Mid Rogue Fire District

Address: PO Box 635 Merlin, OR 97532

Primary Phone: 541-295-5140

Primary Rep: Mark Jones

Email: office@midroguefiredistrict.com

Website: https://www.midroguefiredistrict.com

Categories: Fire Protection Services

Description:

The district was formed in November of 2024 by the Josephine County Commissioners under the name Josephine County Rural Fire Protection District. The Board of Directors were elected in May of 2025 and sworn in on July 1st, 2025 and soon determined that the name needed to be change to end the confusion many county residents were facing. The name was voted on during a public hearing on August 4th, 2025 and the name Mid Rogue Fire District became official on September 4th, 2025.

Hunny Bear Hot Dogs

Address: Rogue Valley

Primary Phone: 541-951-1768

Primary Rep: Antoinette Gaines

Email: antoinette.gaines@outlook.com

Website: https://business.grantspasschamber.org/

list/member/hunny-bear-hot-dogs-llc-14342

Categories: Food Truck/Catering

Description: We own a hot dog cart; serving many varieties of hot dogs, chips,

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

Grants Pass Podiatry

Address: 1227 NE 7th St

Primary Phone: 541-471-3668

Primary Rep: Jenn Diaz

Email: billing@gppodiatry.com

Website: http://gppodiatry.com

Categories: Arts, Culture, Entertainment

Description:

Udders Ice Cream

Address: 1893 NE 7th St

Primary Phone: 541-507-1248

Primary Rep: Indra Nicholas

Email: http://www.Uddersic.com

Website: hello@uddersic.com

Categories: Sweet Treats/Ice Cream/Gelato

Description:

At Udders, we make all of our premium ice cream, gelato, and bakery items right here in our shop. We create flavors that our customers love and ask for. We are proud to offer dairy free and vegan options to satisfy everyone’s dietary needs.

Inside the Box

Address: 560 NE F St. Ste A

Primary Phone: 541-955-1400

Primary Rep: Crystal Sequeira

Email: staff@insidetheboxgp.com

Website: http://www.insidetheboxgp.com

Categories: Mail / Shipping Services

Description:

Inside the Box located at 560 NE F St Ste A, Grants Pass OR is the go-to resource for packing, shipping, printing and business service needs of the residents and businesses of Grants Pass, OR.

Our team of dedicated, professionally trained experts understands the meaning of Super-Star Customer Care—we focus on saving you time and money by ensuring you get the right products and services at the right price—in a single, quick visit.

We can pack and ship [almost] anything to [almost] anywhere in the world, but shipping is only one way we can help to make your life easier. In addition to our pack and ship service, we are also Grants Pass’ premier copy, print and document services center. Large or small, black and white or color; if it can be printed, Inside the Box can handle it!

Detail Bookkeeping

Address: 1422 Raydean Dr.

Primary Phone: 541-441-4319

Primary Rep: Cathie Sabados

Email: detailfreelance@gmail.com

Website: https://soloist.ai/detailfreelancebookkeeping

Categories: Business Services/Accounting/ Bookkeeping/Tax Prep/Payroll

Description:

Accurate Bookkeeping Allows for Confident Decision Making. It is my mission to empower you, as the business owner, to reach your goals. With over 18 years of experience and a passion for organization, I provide expert, personalized bookkeeping solutions and ensure that you fully understand what the numbers are telling you.

Having an individualized plan tailored to your business will save you time and reduce costs. I look forward to learning about your business.

Local podiatry practice led by Dr. Todd Sautter

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

For March, our Young Professionals Network hosted our Quarterly Social—an event that consistently offers a fantastic evening of networking. This time, we gathered at a venue that many had yet to discover: Pints N Wine Pourhouse, nestled in the Hellgate Jetboats parking lot. This hidden gem is celebrated for its diverse selection of craft brews, kombucha, wines, and meads.

In 2022, longtime friends Ryan Watson and Casey Hatchman turned their shared passion for quality beverages and camaraderie into reality. They envisioned a place where they would enjoy spending time and succeeded in creating just that. Pints N Wine Pourhouse has become known as Grants Pass’ premier destination for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a relaxed atmosphere perfect for making fun memories.

The venue’s journey began as Frank N Stene’s Monster Growlers, a growler-filling station. Under new ownership, it transformed into a vibrant hub featuring 20 taps and over 400 bottles and cans to choose from. The cozy patio space further enhances its laid-back vibe, making it an ideal spot for unwinding with a refreshing drink. Regular appearances by guest food trucks and specialty food vendors add to the experience, making every visit unique.

Many attendees of the annual Tap Walk or Wine Stroll have likely enjoyed this spot, as they are a popular stop. Pints N Wine Pourhouse continues to be a crowd favorite, offering not only great drinks but also a welcoming community spirit.

As we move into spring, reviewing scholarship applications is a top priority for our committee. It is so amazing to see the talent and commitment from these students. Selecting is no easy feat, but in the end, it’s such a huge honor to award two local area students.

The caliber of applicants never ceases to impress us, and each student’s unique story and dedication to their education and community make the decision incredibly challenging. Nevertheless, this process allows us to recognize and celebrate the exceptional talent within our community and encourage the next generation.

In April, we will host our Monthly Luncheon at the Hamton Inn & Suites with guest speaker, Jordan Mortensen. Check the Chamber Community Calendar for details on this event, which is free to attend and includes lunch.

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.

Applegate River Golf & RV Resort

Cafe` Nada Bar

Clouser Well Drilling Inc

Design! by Kiltz Internet Solutions

Express Employment Professionals

First Interstate Bank - North Branch

Grange Co-op

Grants Pass Downs

Grants Pass Grocery Outlet

Grants Pass Water Laboratory/ Backflow Testing

Hellgate and Co. Gifts, Gear & PNW Store

HRS (Human Resource Safety)

Just-in Time Appliance

KA Designs LLC

Legacy Family & Leadership

Liquid Technologies LLC DBA River Wild Boats

Magazine Exchange Inc.

New Hope Nursery

O.A.R.S.

Once Upon A Horse Spay and Neuter

Oregon Books & Games LLC

Pregnancy Care Center of Grants Pass

Primerica - Jeff Voigt

Purdey Electric LLC

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers & Brews

Robco, Inc.

Rogue Plaza ~ 777 Bldg

Siskiyou Community Health Center

Southern Oregon Aspire, Inc.

Southern Oregon Compost LLC

Southern Oregon Horse Racing Association

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

SunShine Solar Inc

Tekmanagement Inc.

Ticor Title Company

Tom R Parker Enterprises

Travelodge

Val’s Ice Cream LLC

Weekend Beer Company

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Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce Newsletter: April 2026 by Grants Pass & JoCo Chamber of Commerce - Issuu