The Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Awards Banquet is a meaningful way to celebrate and honor the success of local businesses that drive our community’s growth and prosperity. This event shines a spotlight on outstanding achievements, fosters a sense of pride and collaboration, and reinforces the importance of supporting local commerce. By participating, you not only recognize the hard work and innovation of these businesses, but also contribute to a thriving, vibrant local economy.
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.
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce 1995 NW Vine Street • Grants Pass, OR 97526
Phone: 541.476.7717 • GPCOC@grantspasschamber.org
Mark Stutzman - Farmer’s Bldg Supply
Patrick Sharp - Asante
Executive
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.
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
This Month on Chamber Chatter: • Resolute Integrative Health • Trahern Real Estate Appraisal• • Zonta & Girls Rock • GP Vitality Center •
February is a month of inspiration and opportunity—a time to honor the heartbeat of our community: our local businesses. At the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce, we couldn’t be more excited to host our Annual Awards Banquet on Valentine’s Day, February 14th. This year’s theme, “We LOVE Business,” speaks to the passion and dedication that drive our business community forward. On this special evening, we will celebrate the innovation, resilience, and outstanding achievements that make our region shine.
As Oregon’s legislative session kicks off, your Chamber is steadfast in its mission to advocate for a thriving business environment. We are closely monitoring proposed legislation, championing policies that foster growth, and ensuring the voices of our local businesses resonate in Salem. Advocacy is not just our duty—it’s our commitment to protecting the foundation of our local economy.
Closer to home, we see opportunities for collaboration that lie ahead with City and County leadership and our many strategic partners. The Chamber proudly represents businesses on critical committees, such as the City’s Budget Committee, Tourism Advisory Committees, Visit Grants Pass Board of Directors, Merchant Meetings and the Collaborative Economic Development Committee. Within our own ranks, the Business Retention & Expansion Committee, the Young Professionals Network, and the Government Affairs Committee continue to drive impactful initiatives. This month also starts our collaboration with local leaders as we make time to focus on Workforce Housing with our panel discussion at PEERSPECTIVES on Feb 20th and again in our sponsorship with the first session in the workshop series, “Build That Rental.”
This February, let’s celebrate success, embrace opportunity, and unite in our shared love for business. Together, we will build a stronger, more vibrant community, fueled by passion, purpose, and the unwavering belief in our collective potential.
Terry Hopkins President & CEO, Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce
541-956-4100 • thopkins@grantspasschamber.org
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
February 2025
Business For Breakfast ~ Greeter’s Meeting Meeting Time: 8:00
Feb 5th
Grants Pass & JoCo Chamber of Commerce
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
Feb 12th
Network in Action (NIA)
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
Feb 19th
Options for Education
Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.
Feb 26th
VanDusen Design
The Hivve • 164 SE G Street
Greeters is a powerful networking group where you can interact with an average of 75 business professionals on a weekly basis. Non-Members are invited to attend up to (3) times as a guest. Doors open at 7:45am. The Chamber Ambassadors collect $1.00 and a business card at the door. Refreshments are provided . The meeting commences promptly at 8:00 AM. Our host has 5 minutes to showcase their business/organization. Emcee’s review the meeting rules and begin introductions from business cards. When introduced you have 30 seconds to share your information. ~ We look forward to meeting you!
Everyone needs tools to start, build, manage, and grow their business.
While starting a new business can be overwhelming, the Small Business Tool Kit provided by the City of Grants Pass will help you on your way to turning your dream business into a realty.
It’s a friendly, easy-to-read resource to help you navigate the business tax certificate and the permit process.
https://www.grantspasschamber.org/small-business-tool-kit-gp/
Emcee- Sherri Scott, Sherri Scott Real Estate
Jerry Hughes, Artist Studio 12 and Easy Photo Class
Emcee- Mark Stutzman, Farmer’s Building Supply
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book-gifting program that mails free books to children. Children under the age of five living in Josephine County qualify to receive a book by mail, at no cost to their families, every month until their fifth birthday.
Since launching Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in May 2018, over 5,000 Josephine County children have received nearly 138,000 books.
A library card is not needed to participate. Yet, if you need to, sign up for an instant online library card today at: josephinelibrary.org/library-cards.
Stop by your nearest Josephine Community Library branch or visit josephinelibrary.org/ youth-and-family/children/dolly-partons-imagination-library to register your child at no cost, thanks to the Grants Pass Rotary Club.
“Serving Our Neighbors, Committed to Excellence”
and
Bringing Beauty to Life, One Bouquet at a Time
Located in the heart of Grants Pass, Rogue Florist & Gifts is your go-to destination for stunning floral arrangements and unique gifts. Formerly known as Rogue River Florist & Gifts, our shop has been a staple in the community, providing fresh, high-quality flowers for every occasion—whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, wedding, or just because.
At Rogue Florist, we believe in the artistry of floral design and the power of flowers to brighten lives. Our team carefully crafts each arrangement with creativity and care, ensuring that every bouquet is as unique as the person receiving it. Beyond flowers, our shop offers plants, a selection of gifts, gourmet items, and locally made treasures.
As a proud member of the Grants Pass community, we love connecting with our customers and supporting local events. We’re excited for the year ahead, including hosting floral design workshops and bringing beauty to every celebration. Stop by our shop or visit us online to see what’s blooming!
Small Business Education ~ SCORE.org Recorded Webinars Workshops, Webinars, Events and Courses for Business Growth Gain insights and skills needed to grow your business. Our small business training includes live and recorded webinars, in-person and online workshops, events and courses led by industry experts. Whether you’re starting out or looking to expand, we provide the educational tools to help you succeed.
The Ambassadors are the oldest and largest standing committee of the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce. Ambassadors serve as the welcoming committee for the chamber. Ambassadors are goodwill representatives, or the public relations arm of the organization that works for business and community interests in Josephine County.
This fun group of business owners dedicate themselves to serving the entire Chamber membership by promoting the Chamber’s message and mission to fellow business professionals with our community.
County Anniversary
Jan 31st - 500 NW 6th St
UPCOMING Ribbon Cuttings
Mailbox Plus - 1051 NE 6th St STE 1C Feb 7 @ 3:00 PM
Mill Street Coffee
Jan 10th - 101 NE Mill St
Testimony in Support of HB 3119
Presented to the House Committee On Climate, Energy, and Environment
To: Chair Lively, Vice-Chairs Gamba and Levy, and Members of the Oregon House Committee,
On behalf of the local businesses in Grants Pass and Josephine County, I am writing to express strong support for House Bill 3119, which would prohibit the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) from implementing or enforcing the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) regulations until January 1, 2027. This delay is essential to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities and businesses, including significant infrastructure gaps, economic burdens, technological limitations, and supply chain issues.
The ACT rule mandates an increasing percentage of zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicle (MHDV) sales starting in 2025. However, rural Oregon lacks the infrastructure necessary to support the widespread adoption of these vehicles. For example, there is currently only one public charging station in Oregon capable of servicing heavy-duty electric trucks, located at Daimler’s facility in Portland. For
businesses in rural areas like Grants Pass, access to charging facilities is virtually non-existent, making it impractical to rely on electric trucks for daily operations.
Furthermore, the range of electric MHDVs is significantly lower than that of diesel vehicles. Most electric trucks have a range below 200 miles, while diesel trucks can travel more than 1,000 miles on a single refueling. This range disparity is particularly problematic in rural areas, where delivery routes often span long distances. To maintain operational efficiency, businesses would likely need to purchase multiple electric vehicles to replace a single diesel truck, increasing costs and logistical complexities.
The financial implications of the ACT rule are especially burdensome for small and medium-sized enterprises in rural Oregon. Electric MHDVs have significantly higher upfront costs compared to diesel trucks, and while there may be long-term savings in fuel and maintenance, the initial investment is prohibitive for many businesses operating on thin margins. Without adequate financial incentives or assistance, this mandate could force businesses to downsize or cease operations altogether. Additionally, the ACT rule’s restric-
tions on the sale of new diesel vehicles exacerbate these challenges. Diesel trucks are more affordable, readily available, and technologically mature, making them a practical choice for businesses looking to upgrade their fleets. By cutting off the supply of new diesel vehicles, the ACT rule prevents businesses from modernizing their fleets with more efficient diesel trucks, forcing them to rely on aging, less efficient vehicles, which increases costs and environmental impact.
The implementation of the ACT rule has already disrupted the supply chain for diesel trucks. In December 2024, Daimler Trucks North America paused the sale of new diesel trucks in Oregon due to uncertainties surrounding the ACT regulations. Although sales have since resumed, this disruption highlights the instability caused by the regulatory environment. Such disruptions make it difficult for businesses to plan and maintain reliable operations, creating unnecessary obstacles to economic growth.
Another critical issue is the limited production and availability of electric MHDVs. In 2023, global sales of electric trucks reached just 55,000
units, with the U.S. accounting for less than 0.2% of the market. This limited availability leaves businesses with few viable options for fleet upgrades, further complicating efforts to comply with the ACT rule. The supply simply does not meet the demand, particularly in rural regions where businesses rely heavily on medium- and heavy-duty vehicles for their operations.
While we recognize the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner technologies, these efforts must account for the unique challenges faced by rural communities and businesses. Delaying the implementation of the ACT regulations until January 1, 2027, as proposed in HB 3119, will provide the necessary time to develop adequate infrastructure, expand
the availability of electric MHDVs, and support businesses in making a practical and equitable transition to zero-emission fleets.
We respectfully urge the committee to support HB 3119 to ensure that environmental regulations are implemented in a way that is both effective and fair for all Oregonians.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Terry Hopkins President & CEO
Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce
509 SE 7th Street, Grants Pass
Resolute Integrative Health
Address: 216 E Main St. Rogue River
Phone: (458) 244-8090
Primary Contact: Heather Friend
Email: info@resoluteintegrativehealth.com
Website: www.ResoluteIntegrativeHealth.com
Category: Health Care Services
Description:
Resolute Integrative Health is a direct primary care clinic in Rogue River Oregon, offering quality health services through a membership plan for the Southern Oregon region. Our office provides dependable primary care services, integrative approaches, hormone replacement therapy for both men and women, weight loss support, etc.
While most of our clients have insurance, we do not bill insurance for in-clinic provider services - though we can still use most insurance plans for orders and referrals, and offer huge discounts on labs, prescriptions, and supplements.
Address: 1656 Williams Hwy, Grants Pass
Phone: (458) 488-2697
Primary Contact: Robert Reynolds
Email: Robert@RobertReynoldsCPA.com
Website: www.RobertReynoldsCPA.com
Category: Accounting
Description:
Robert Reynolds, CPA is proud to serve the Grants Pass community with expert tax and financial services tailored to meet the needs of individuals and businesses.
With years of professional experience and a commitment to personalized service, Robert Reynolds, CPA, offers tax preparation, planning, and consulting to help clients maximize their financial opportunities. Whether navigating complex tax scenarios or planning for the future, Rob and his team are dedicated to providing clear guidance and effective solutions.
HRS - Human Resource Safety
Address: Grants Pass
Phone: (512) 786- 1624
Primary Contact: Charlotte Hintz
Email: cc.hintz419@gmail.com
Website: www.HumanResourceSafety.com
Category: Business & Professional Services: Business Consultants & Development
Description:
We specialize in providing comprehensive HR and safety consulting services tailored to your unique small business needs.
Our expertise ensures regulatory compliance, fosters a safe work environment, and enhances organizational effectiveness through strategic HR practices.
Address: 234 SW L Street, Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 450-5283
Primary Contact: Brent Kehoe
Email: gpvitality@gmail.com
Website: www.GPVitality.com
Category: Events Center
Description:
The Grants Pass Vitality Center features spacious rooms with flexible layouts, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, and elegant lighting to create the perfect ambiance for any event. We’re happy to offer food from our restaurant and are fully OLCC licensed! Booking inquiries available on our website. Whether you’re planning a small gathering or a larger event (234 Occupancy), the staff at the Event Center are dedicated to providing exceptional service, helping you create unforgettable moments in the heart of Southern Oregon.
Address: 1560 Williams Hwy. Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 689-0019
Primary Contact: Ryan Uribe
Email: karie@abbys.com
Website: www.abbys.com
Category: Restaurant
Description:
Abby’s Legendary Pizza has been serving the Grants Pass community since 1965. With toppings piled to the edge, real cheese and premium ingredients, our pizzas are legendary. Fresh salads, hot chicken, appetizers and cold beverages have been customer favorites since we first opened.
Our large, clean, comfortable parlors are often used for birthdays, Cavemen team parties, community celebrations and special gatherings. Please call our General Manager and we’re happy to reserve the space you need and make sure your meal is ready when you arrive.
Abby’s is a family-owned and a legendary pizza tradition that’s been proud to be part of the Grants Pass community for generations.
Address: 233 SW. G. Steet, Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 244-1959
Primary Contact: Bob Neermann
Email: BearCaveGP@gmail.com
Website: No Website
Category: Speciality/Souvenir & Gifts
Description:
The Bear Cave started as Jumpin’ Jerky in October, 2019 and a year later moved and rebranded the store to Going Rogue Jerky. Wanting the store to have “entertainment” value so patrons would linger, Bob started purchasing taxidermy bears as a theme to the store -- and in the process added a few other taxidermy animals to the “theme”.
When they moved in 2024 to the G Street location, that is when the bear theme really gave the store its “identity” and the last and final rebranding of the store happened and “THE BEAR CAVE” became what it is today.
Under the cover of darkness, all of the animals were relocated by Bob to their current home at The Bear Cave: A white mountain goat, lynx, bobcat, red tail fox, auger hawk, owl, mallard, a black bear, two grizzly bears and a few small editions.
The Bear Cave is one of the most unique shopping experiences in Grants Pass- Come say Hi, and “Seek Your Adventure!”
New Life Transformations LLC
Address: Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 395- 9505
Primary Contact: Lori Shufelt
Email: Lori@newlife-transformations.com
Website: www.newlife-transformations.com
Category: Health & Wellness: Products and Consulting
Description:
Welcome to New Life Transformations, where life’s most significant transitions become the foundation for your personal success and happiness. Life transitions can feel daunting; whether it’s a career shift, relationship changes, or navigating the challenges of a new stage in life.
That’s where Lori Shufelt comes in. As a Master Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Timeline Therapy, Hypnosis, and an experienced life coach, Lori is dedicated to helping you unlock your potential, overcome limitations, and confidently step into the future you deserve.
Address: 4990 Lake Shore Dr. ,Selma Phone: (541) 690-8325
Primary Contact: Jerrad Miller
Email: jerradpacificridgelineforestry.com
Website: http://www.prforestry.com
Category: Tree Expert/Arborist/Forestry Services
Description:
Pacific Ridgeline Forestry is your comprehensive solution for forestry and land management services. Our expertise extends across a range of areas, ensuring that we can meet the diverse needs of our clients.
Our extensive experience spans across various aspects of forestry, including selective logging, trucking, land and habitat management, reforestation, harvesting high-quality tree-growth burls and fire mitigation.
Frontier Properties
Address: Grants Pass
Phone: (971) 303- 2253
Primary Contact: Jamie Eldrett
Email: jamie@frontier-properties.com
Website: www.frontier-properties.com
Category: Real Estate
Description:
Experienced Realtor, Finance consulting, Homesteading, Future Proofing...
...All with a focus of Integrity. Abundance. Impeccability.
Ian Cox
Address: Grants Pass
Phone: (541) 295-9913
Primary Contact: Ian Cox
Email: hupergnosis@gmail.com
Website: No Website
Category: Health & Wellness: Products and Consulting
Description:
Using neurolinguistic programming tools, Ian helps you to stop admiring the problem and open yourself up to the possibility of what comes next.
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.
First Interstate Bank, The Hivve, Peoples Bank of Commerce, Midland Empire Insurance, Nicebadge Robyn Lasky@RE/MAX Integrity, Kendon Leet Real Estate, Weekend Beer Co., and Logan Design
To kick off the new year, The Young Professionals recently had the privilege of hearing from Terry Hopkins, the new CEO of the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce. A special thank you goes to The Hivve for hosting the event and Blaze-N-Monkeys for providing delicious food.
Terry provided an insightful update on the role and current status of the Chamber. He shared a bit about his background in the hospitality industry, which fueled his passion for community connection and being “part of the party.” His experience as a long-time business owner and Chamber Member highlighted the power of networking and the influential voice the Chamber brings to the community. Terry’s commitment to education, advocacy, and community building has driven his extensive involvement in Government Affairs. His enthusiasm for these areas is evident and inspiring.
Under Terry’s leadership, the Chamber has set ambitious goals for 2025, which include:
• Launching a Leadership Training Program: Aiming to cultivate future leaders within the community.
• Conducting a 3rd Party Operational Review:
Ensuring transparency and efficiency in Chamber operations.
• Expanding Community Concerns:
Addressing issues identified in the BR & E Survey through “Peerspectives” -Lunch & Learns.
• Bringing Concerts Back to Riverside Park:
Revitalizing community spirit with engaging events.
Participation in Young Professionals Network (YPN) functions does not require Chamber membership. However, if you are interested in learning about the benefits of becoming a member, please reach out to Trina Runyan, the Membership & Business Development Director, at trunyan@grantspasschamber.org or call 541-956-4102.
This event was a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and engage with the visionary leadership of Terry Hopkins. Here’s to a great start to the new year!
In February, the Young Professionals Network (YPN) is excited to offer two engaging opportunities for members to connect and make a positive impact in the community. Whether you’re passionate about environmental stewardship or have an interest in the arts, these events are perfect for you! Join us for our quarterly trash cleanup as part of the Adopt-a-Street program. This initiative is a fantastic way to contribute to the beautification of our local community. Volunteers will gather to pick up litter and ensure our streets remain clean and inviting. Explore the rich world of art with a guided tour of the Grants Pass Museum of Art. This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with local art, learn about various exhibits, and appreciate the creative talents within our community.
To learn more about the Young Professionals Network or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to Christie Swafford at cswafford@grantspasschamber.org. We encourage you to follow us on social media and sign up for text alerts by texting GPYPN to 38316.
Josephine
Banner Bank - North Branch
Brown Bear Masonry
Discovery Inn
Eye Care Group of Southern Oregon
Fields Home Center
General Credit Service, Inc.
Grants Pass Automotive
Grants Pass Pharmacy
Grounds Guys Landscape Management
Josephine Community Library District
Josephine County
Keller Williams Realty Southern Oregon
Mid Rogue Foundation
Oregon Pacific Financial Advisors, Inc.
Pacific Power
Premier West Properties LLC
Rogue Valley Heating Cooling & Electrical
Sandi’s Candies & Fudgery
Sheckells Construction
Smith Five Electric LLC
Steam Distillery
The Orchid Grill
Three Rivers School District
Ticor Title Company
United Finance Co
US Bank
VLK Bookkeeping LLC
Greeters- “Business for Breakfast” Every Wednesday - 8:00 am
Connect w/Enews & Calendar for Locations
Government Affairs Committee*
1st Monday - 9:00 am
Young Professionals Network Committee (YPN)*
2nd Monday - 12:00 noon
Business Retention & Expansion Committee*
2nd Tuesday - 8:00 am
Chamber Board Meeting* 2nd Thursday - 8:00 am
Ambassador Committe Meeting* 1st Wednesday - 7:00 am
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