Issuu

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 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

Kelsy Ausland - Ausland Group

Executive Board of Directors

CHAIR/Kate LaskyJosephine Community Libraries

CHAIR ELECT/ Alan Meyer - Pacific Power

VICE CHAIR/ Donnie Garnett - People’s Bank

TREASURER/ Meghan Boehm - So. OR Aspire

PAST CHAIR/ Trent CarpenterSouthern Oregon Sanitation

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

Terri Wiley - Evergreen Fed Bank

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 - Chair; NiceBadge

Roy Lindsay - Vice Chair

Rebecca Stoltz- Director; JCLF - Secretary Treasurer ~ Pending

Lawton Lesueur - Director; Mid.Emp.Ins.

Terri Wiley- Director; Evergreen Fed Bank

Hyla Lipson- Director, GP Museum of Art

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

Terry Hopkins President/CEO

Christie Swafford Programs & Events

Shirley Liska Office Assistant

Karen Henningsen Accounting Contractor

Cat Bonney Graphics Contractor

As we approach the general election, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible importance of civic participation. Voting is not only a right but a responsibility, and the choices we make in the voting booth have far-reaching effects on our community and local businesses. Your vote is your voice, and it’s essential to use it wisely.

At the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to supporting a thriving business environment, and that includes being engaged in the political process. To help inform your decisions, the Chamber will be hosting two candidate forums: one for City Council and Mayoral candidates on October 15th, and another for County Commissioner candidates on October 17th. These forums provide a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to lead our city and county. Your participation helps shape the future of our community.

The Chamber has also taken positions on two critical ballot measures that will impact our businesses and the broader community. We are opposing Measure 118, which proposes the largest tax increase in Oregon’s history. This measure would raise costs on everyday essentials such as food, medicine, and electricity, placing undue strain on both consumers and business owners alike.

On the other hand, the Chamber is supporting Measure 17-119, a local bond measure that will benefit Rogue Community College. This bond will address vital workforce shortages in fields like nursing, truck driving, emergency medical services, welding, and manufacturing. By investing in our community’s educational infrastructure, we are building a stronger local economy and supporting the next generation of skilled workers.

As you head to the polls, remember that your voice matters. The future of our businesses and community depends on thoughtful participation. Let’s exercise our right to vote and make choices that support a prosperous and vibrant Grants Pass.

Your voice, your choice!

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

October 2024

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

Oct 2nd

Chamber Ambassadors

Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr. Oct 9th

LED Concepts 1312 Redwood Avenue ~ Park behind Building

Oct 16th

Fort Vannoy Farms

Lower River Rd Entrance - across from 5556 Lwr River Rd

Oct 23rd

Southern Oregon Innovation Hub - 1MC The Hivve 164 SE G Street

Oct 30th

CommonConnections.org

Fruitdale Grange ~ 1440 Parkdale Dr.

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- Teresa Matz, Legacy Family & Leadership

Jeff Rowley, Pregnancy Care Center

Emcee- Roger Singer, Grocery Outlet

Learning with The Library Library Resources

to help Grow your

Neighborhood

Heroes Story Squad

Friday, October 11 | 11am–12pm | Grants Pass

Children and their families are invited to join us for a special program featuring this month’s hero, Grants Pass Police Officer Frownfelter. Listen to a story and learn about what it’s like to be a community helper. Stick around for a fun craft at the end!

Día de los Muertos Bilingual Storytime Celebration

Saturday, October 2 | 11:30am–12:30pm | GP

Celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) with bilingual stories, themed crafts, and learning about this vibrant Mexican and Central American tradition. Families will enjoy stories in English and Spanish, followed by crafts, while honoring loved ones with joy and remembrance.

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.

Library programs are offered at no charge and open to the public. A library card is not needed to participate. For more information, contact the library at info@josephinelibrary.org

Started in 1994, AllCare Independent Physician Association (IPA) is a team of local doctors and providers with one focus: preventing illness and promoting healthy lifestyles in our communities. We live here. We know you. Together, we are AllCare IPA. Changing healthcare to work for you. AllCareHealth.com/IPA

Great News!

Rogue Medicine, at 1215 NE 7th Street in Grants Pass, has become the latest clinic to join the AllCare Medical Group. You can reach them at (541) 244-2197.

We now have five clinics in Grants Pass, one in Glendale, and one in Illinois Valley. Together, we work to deliver high-quality, patient-centered, provider-led healthcare. AllCareHealth.com/MedicalGroup

Serving Southern Oregon’s local communities.

In 1994, a forward-thinking group of local physicians came together to “provide cost effective healthcare to our community”.

Thanks to them and to the ongoing leadership of our board and executive staff, this spring AllCare Health has the opportunity to celebrate 30 years of service to our communities.

Heather Kahn, MD Angela Mount, DO

Milas Moments Co. Studio is a luxury event space located at 613 SE 6th St, in the heart of downtown. This local gem is celebrating its first anniversary as a brick-and-mortar venue this October.

Founded by Mila, an experienced event designer in the Rogue Valley, Milas Moments Co. specializes in modern balloon installations, personalized photo ops, event rentals, and custom designs. In 2023, Mila expanded her vision to create a dedicated space for clients to gather and celebrate, offering a comprehensive service that combines venue and decor.

The venue offers dining seating, premium wood tables, and two styled lounging areas. Guests can access a private restroom and amenities such as a speaker, mini fridge, and microwave. Rental pricing is $88/hr. Clients can bring their own food

and drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, or choose to have catering provided. Buffet tables are set up in the back for convenience. We also offer add-on services for event planning, design, and rentals. Our bright and airy space is perfect for branding shoots, making it ideal for business owners looking to showcase their products or services.

As we enter the busy holiday season, consider hosting your holiday parties with us! Tours are available every Thursday from 2 PM to 6 PM. Whether for celebrations or professional gatherings, our indoor venue is ideal for any event. Stay tuned for upcoming community and public events at Milas Moments Studio!

For more information, call (541) 631-9033, email milasmoments.co@gmail.com, or visit milasmoments.co.

The Chateau is at risk! More than just a structure, the Oregon Caves Chateau serves as a critical economic pillar and a vital part of our national heritage—it stands proud among icons like Yellowstone and Yosemite. As one of the treasured ‘Great Lodges’ of the National Park Service, we urgently need to restore it to ensure the prosperity and preservation of the region.

Join us in protecting this architectural marvel, not just for today’s visitors but for the history of tomorrow.

Donate online

FriendsOCAC.org

sue@friendsocac.org

Julie Hartford Executive Director

The Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve spans nearly 4,100 acres of old growth forests, tumbling mountain streams, incredible views and miles of hiking trails. It is also home to the “Marble Halls of Oregon”, the famed Oregon Caves.

Childcare: Impacts on Our Community & Your Business

Our Peerspectives series takes aim at addressing the issues facing local businesses. These panel-style discussions look to not only address the challenges we face in business, but seek to find solutions and move the needle on key issues.

The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of mmerce’s Business Retention and Expansion Committee is excited to re-launch the “Peerspectives” series, which will focus on key issues facing our community and your business.

Our recent discussion brought industry experts together to discuss the impacts of childcare on our workforce along with resources and strategies for growing the resources available. The sold-out crowd represented a mix of private sector employers with public and non-profit resources.

“Conversations & Strategies with a Panel of Peers & Industry Experts” Sept 10, 2024 11:30 AM ~ 1:00 PM

oin our panel of experts as we discuss issues educational

Connecting these segments in an engaging, solutions-oriented conversation provided a wealth of knowledge and resources.

Here are a couple selections, just click the image to register for these free classes. There are several classes on varying subjects...so much to choose from!

Josephine County Child Care Business Asccelerator Program

Complete

State expected to provide $15 million in matching funds

Measure 17-119 will significantly benefit the community by addressing critical workforce shortages in essential fields such as nursing, commercial truck driving, emergency medical services, welding, and manufacturing.

Two Nights of Candidate Forums where questions are answered and platforms clarified.

Attend in-personCity Hall Council Chambers 101 NW A Street or watch via the online via Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber YouTube Channel or RVTV Grants Pass (Channel 183)

FACTS ABOUT MEASURE 118: The Costly Tax on Sales

A group of out-of-state activists is promoting a drastic $6.8 Billion tax measure on Oregon’s November 2024 statewide ballot. If approved by voters, Measure 118 would implement the largest tax increase in Oregon history – hurting Oregon’s economy and driving up costs for Oregon businesses and consumers at the worst possible time.

HERE’S WHY MEASURE 118 WOULD BE BAD FOR ALL OREGONIANS:

MEASURE 118 WOULD IMPLEMENT A MASSIVE TAX ON SALES

Measure 118 is a gross receipts tax on businesses with more than $25 million in annual Oregon sales. In other words, it’s a tax on sales – not profits or income. That means businesses in Oregon would be forced to pay this new $6.8 Billion tax on the goods and services they provide, regardless of whether they make a large profit, make a small profit, or are losing money. Measure 118 would force hundreds of local businesses to raise their prices, cut jobs, or shut down completely.

MEASURE 118 WOULD IMPOSE A “TAX ON A TAX”

Measure 118 would add a costly new 3% tax on sales that could apply at every step of the supply chain in Oregon. By the time an Oregon product goes from raw materials to a manufacturer to a packaging company to a distributor and then to a retailer, it may have been taxed five times before it finally reaches the consumer – making it far more costly than a typical sales tax.

AMBASSADOR CONVENTION 2024 ~ Lebanon, Oregon

The Wonder Bur Steakhouse & Lounge 116 SW H Street

UPCOMING Ribbon Cuttings

LED Concepts ~ Oct 9th 9:00 AM 1312 Redwood Ave

Downtown Welcome Cntr - Oct 24th 10:00 AM 198 SW 6Th Street

Our Chamber Ambassadors organize Ribbon Cutting Celebrations for a variety of events for Chamber Members!

Contact Shirley to schedule your celebration! Sliska@grantspasschamber.org Ribbon Cuttings

550 Redwood Hwy

Cherry’s Villa Inn 1001 NE 6th Street

Muchas Gracias

In this new segment we will share the continued momentum and meaningful engagements our Chamber has maintained, as well as the promising endeavors that lie ahead through the following “Reviews and Previews”...

Reviews:

• Peerspective: In response to our business survey, which identifies strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for businesses the Chamber kicked off September with a reboot of our Peerspectives panel. A soldout crowd was able to engage with industry experts and peers to learn about the need and impact to our community around child care.

• Ambassador Conference: Our Chamber Ambassadors represented the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce in Lebanon, OR for their annual conference. Ambassadors engaged with others across the state in an opportunity to learn, network and showcase what Josephine County has to offer. Ambassadors play a vital role in the Chamber by helping promote the Chamber, welcoming new members, and making Chamber events successful and enjoyable for everyone.

• District 7 CTE Programs Listening Session: Chamber CEO, Terry Hopkins was able to represent the Chamber business community and discuss the importance of offering career and technical education to our future workforce. District 7 has become a leader in offering CTE courses and engaged with the community to identify additional needs as well as how to work with local businesses to supplement the classroom learning with career exploration and integration.

• Ribbon Cuttings: Chamber staff and Ambassadors were fortunate to celebrate growth and expansion of three local businesses in September. The Wonder Bur, an iconic Grants Pass establishment celebrated new ownership and a fresh new remodel. Muchas Gracias welcomed guests to their new Redwood Highway location marking over 30 locations for this family-owned business in the Pacific Northwest. And the Shekell family have added another beautiful accommodation to their lodgeing offerings, the charming Buena Sera Inn, now called Cherry’s Villa Inn.

• 1MC: We are happy to support the launch of 1MC (One Million Cups). Grants Pass joins over 100 other communities across the nation to offer these weekly meeting to inspire and connect entrepreneurs. 1MC provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities.

Previews:

• Tap Walk: The Chamber is pleased to present our annual Tap Walk event Saturday October 12th. Featuring over 20 stops at local businesses, participants will sample amazing craft brews, delicious food and get to explore some of our finest local business. Tap Walk has become the valley’s premier craft beer event held in beautiful Grants Pass.

• Candidate Forums: We will host in-person candidate forums for the Mayor & Council races as well as Commissioner races. We will also host televised discussions with State candidates. This forum represents a crucial opportunity for our community to engage directly with candidates who are vying for a role in shaping the future of Josephine County. It is through such forums that the voting public can gain a deeper understanding of each candidate’s vision, goals, and values. Council & Mayor candidate forum will be October 15th with County Commissioners on October 17th.

• Oregon State Chamber Leadership Conference: Your Chamber will have the opportunity to attend the annual State conference for chamber professional to come together, learn, and grow. This year’s conference looks to be a dynamic and impactful event, offering a unique blend of insightful sessions and invaluable networking opportunities designed to enhance professional skills, expand our network, and drive success for our chamber.

• Volunteer Recruitment: Our Visitors Center is recruiting volunteers who are interested in working one 4 hour shift per week. Visitor Center volunteers help welcome guests, connect them with local businesses and attractions as well as highlight the wonderful offerings throughout Southern Oregon. If you interested in this fun opportunity contact Shirley Liska at the Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center

• Budget Season: Like many local businesses, the Chamber is finalizing our 2025 budget. We see this process as essential for fiscal responsibility; it maximizes the impact of your membership, helping us achieve goals and stay on track financially. While you may also be working on your annual budget, we hope you consider renewing your membership at a higher level or explore one of our many sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorships and memberships allow the Chamber of Commerce to achieve our mission to support and promote our local commerce through communication, advocacy & partnerships.

Thank you for your unwavering support and active participation. Together, we are building a thriving and vibrant Grants Pass. ~

Terry H.

SI CASA FLORES

"Vida Feliz" or "Happy life" is our family motto

Welcome Our Newest Chamber Members

Southern Oregon Land Conservancy

Address: 84 4th St, Ashland Phone: 541-482-3069

Primary Contact: Serina Pori

Email: info@landconserve.org

Website: www.landconserve.org

Category: Nonprofit Organization

Description:

Founded in 1978, Southern Oregon Land Conservancy was created to ensure the natural wealth of the wild and working lands of the Rogue River region endure forever. We collaborate with local landowners to create conservation easements—a conservation approach to safeguard their lands in perpetuity. What began small has grown into more than 13,000 acres of protected lands across the Rogue River region.”

Charter Spectrum

Address: 3581 Excel Drive, Medford Phone: (541) 655-0858

Primary Contact: Bob Frazee

Email: Bob.Frazee@charter.com

Website: www.spectrum.com/business

Category:

Telephone & Internet Providers

Description:

Internet, Voice, TV, and Mobile Services are available to support your small to medium-sized business.

Meraki Transport

Address:305 Enterprise Ave, Merlin Phone: (541) 916-2520

Primary Contact: Asha Nicholson

Email: merakitransport7@gmail.com

Website: www.merakitransport.com

Category: Ambulance Services

Description:

We are a non-emergent medical transport company that services the Josephine, Jackson and (sometimes) Douglas county. We offer a range of transportation options to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Aviega LLC

Address: Local Sales, Medford Phone: (541)326-7215

Primary Contact: Joe Walters

Email: sales@aviega.com

Website: www.aviega.com

Category: Computer Software, Network & Hardware Support

Description: Aviega specializes in comprehensive IT solutions for businesses of all sizes, by providing innovative solutions that drive success.

Recovery Cafe ~ Grants Pass

Address: Grants Pass

Phone: (925)786-5531

Primary Contact: Julie Hartford

Email: JulieHartford@gmail.com

Website: www.RecoveryCafeGrantsPass.org

Category: Non-Profit Organization

Description:

We will soon be a place for those who are in Recovery to find support from those who have successfully navigated their own Recovery. We will have peer support circles, mentoring, and activities.

VanDusen Design

Address: Grants Pass

Phone: (541) 622-2416

Primary Contact: Bonnie & Jason VanDusen

Email: sales@vandusendesign.com

Website: www.vandusendesign.com

Category: Marketing Consultants

Description:

The VanDusen Design team, Jason & Bonnie, bring their own expertise to the table, whether in graphic design, web development, video production, or marketing strategy, but it’s the synergy between this husband and wife team that truly sets VanDusen Design apart.

This collaborative approach allows the team to seamlessly integrate different elements of design, media, and strategy, resulting in cohesive, high-quality work that consistently exceeds client expectations.

By maintaining a positive, supportive team dynamic, VanDusen Design ensures that creativity flourishes and that every project is completed with excellence.

LLC

Elev8 Mortgage, LLC

Address: 164 SE G Street, Grants Pass

Phone: (503) 380-5626

Primary Contact: Nicole Zukas

Email: nicole@elev8mortgage.com

Website: www.elev8mortgage.com

Category: Mortgages/Loans

Description:

Poster: Mary Mumma

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 Community Credit Union, Asante, Hampton Inn & Suites, Peoples Bank, Midland Empire Insurance, RE/MAX Integrity-Bifano Home Team, Sunshine Solar Inc, Kendon Leet Real Estate, Weekend Beer Co. Logan Design and Nicebadge

September is always a busy month however our Young Professionals still made time to connect for our monthly luncheon. Our group was delighted to hear from long time business owner and community figure, Tina Gotchall.

At the age of 24, Tina and three family members purchased the Powderhorn. She mentioned challenges that she faced and how she had to get creative to overcome. One said challenge was financing; the bank was not willing to give her a business loan instead they offered her a vacation loan which she used to invest in her business. With a smile on her face, she said “I’ve been on vacation every day since!” Tina went on to talk about the role that the Small Business Development Center had in helping her develop a successful business plan, stating “They are such an under used resource”. She also gave some great insight on making changes is not always easy but some of the smallest details can make you your fortune. Her bit of advice, “Living below your means is AMAZING!” To close, Tina says she serves and fights hard for this community because it took care of her!

Thank you to Hampton Inn for hosting our group and Casablanca Coffee & Grill for the delicious food!

For our Quarterly Social in October, we are excited to partner with Competitive Athletics and Wild River Brewing. For event information and registration, please visit our Community Calendar at www.grantspasschamber.org

American Mineral Research, Inc.

AmeriTitle

Bella Rogue Wellness Clinic

Cascade Self Storage - Grants Pass

Cauble & Whittington, LLP

Century 21 Harris & Taylor

Cynthia Harelson, CPA PC

Darren S. Huddleston, D.M.D., P.C.

DB Pro Audio

Essential Wellness Bodywork & Massage

First American Title Company

Fort Vannoy Farms, Inc.

Friends of the Oregon Caves & Chateau

GPHS Band and Guard Boosters

Grants Pass Broadcasting Corporation

Grants Pass Clinic

Grants Pass Daily Courier

Grants Pass Florist

Hillcrest Memorial Park

J.B. Steel LLC

Marzi Sink Factory

Mini Mac Self Storage, LLC

Old Town Mail House

Oregon Eagle

Plaisance Ranch

Roe Motors GM

S&B Grading and Excavation LLC

Sheri’s Cottages LLC

Shoefly Oregon

Silver Pages

Southern Oregon ESD

Southern Oregon Goodwill

Sundance Distilling

The Home Depot

TMT Business Services, Inc.

WaFd Bank - City Centre Branch

MONTHLY UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Greeters- “Business for Breakfast” Every Wednesday - 8:00 am

Connect w/Enews & Calendar for Locations

Government Affairs Committee*

1st Monday - 9:00 am

Young Professionals Network Committee (YPN)*

2nd Monday - 12:00 noon

Business Retention & Expansion Committee*

2nd Tuesday - 8:00 am

Chamber Board Meeting*

2nd Thursday - 8:00 am

Ambassador Committe Meeting* 1st Wednesday - 7:00 am

This is the valley's premier craft beer event held in beautiful Grants Pass.

Participants travel from location to location sampling amazing craft brews, delicious food and surprises along the stroll!

Tickets Available at Chamber of Commerce 1995 NW Vine Street and ONLINE: www.GrantsPassChamber.org

**This is a 21 and over event. Children are NOT permitted to accompany adults. Each participant must personally check-in and have a valid ID.

Day of Event ~ Downtown Grants Pass

Check-In opens at 12:00 noon - Come Early to Avoid the Line ! (Check-In table open noon - 3:00 PM ) In front of Elegance II Antiques 331 SE 6th Street