If you know, you know. And if you don’t, you probably need this newsletter.
Real stories. Local flavor. Zero corporate nonsense.
In this week’s edition, we’re talking about how local entrepreneurs keep showing up even when things get tough, why small business owners might feel the pinch this open enrollment season, and a few fun finds to make your week a little better. Let’s dive in.
🌮 Local Business Spotlight: Don Pepe’s Mexican Taqueria
If you’ve driven down Edenbower lately, you might’ve noticed something new tucked inside the Lil’ Pantry next to the Sinclair gas station.
That’s Don Pepe’s Mexican Taqueria.
It’s 100 percent family-owned and run by Jose Uribe, a guy who clearly knows what he’s doing. Jose already owns three other restaurants in the area, including Hacienda Vieja in Roseburg, Cottage Grove, and Drain. This new spot is his latest move to bring fresh, made-from-scratch Mexican food to Roseburg.
They’ve got daily specials, a kids’ menu, and a drive-through. You can literally fill your gas tank, hit the car wash, and grab dinner on your way home. That’s multitasking at its finest.
Right now, they’re open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., but hours might change as things settle in.
And here’s a little thank-you for being part of The Roseburg Reader: mention it when you order and get 10 percent off your meal through Sunday, Nov 30, 2025.
So next time you’re craving tacos or just want to support a local family, swing by 2611 NW Edenbower Blvd. Tell Jose you heard about it here.
🧠 Inside Local Minds: A Conversation with a Douglas County Dreamer
For our first issue, I wanted to start with something close to home, the heart behind the businesses.
I recently talked with a local entrepreneur who asked to stay private. They’ve started small, failed a few times, and kept pushing forward anyway.
When I asked what kept them going, they said:
“It wasn’t about being perfect. It was about showing up every day and believing the community would show up too.”
That’s the spirit that makes Douglas County special. We don’t wait for big-city opportunities. We build our own.
If you know someone whose story deserves to be told, reply to this email. I’d love to hear it.
💡 Marketing Minute: How to Get Found on Google
Google is your storefront to the world.
Here’s how to get noticed this week:
Update your business description. Use words people actually search for, like “plumber in Roseburg” or “family diner in Winston.”
Post once a week. Share a photo, an offer, or a short update. Google loves fresh content.
Ask for reviews. Even two new ones this month can bump your visibility fast.
Want my free Google Profile Checklist? Hit reply and say “Send it.”
🗞 The Local Scoop
What’s coming up around Douglas County:
• Umpqua Valley Farmers Market – Saturday, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Downtown Roseburg
• Roseburg Plant Nursery Pop-up – Saturday, Nov 22 at Two-Shy Brewing
• Roseburg Saturday Market – Saturday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Downtown Roseburg
• Winter Gift Market – Saturday, Nov 15, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Seven Feathers Casino
Got a local event? Reply with the details and I’ll add it next week.
💬 Community Conversation
The Roseburg Reader should feel like a chat over coffee, not a broadcast.
Tell me:
• What local business deserves a shout-out?
• What kind of stories do you want more of?
• What challenges are you facing as a small business owner?
Your answers shape what this newsletter becomes.
🗞 In Other News
• Small businesses will experience sticker shock this health insurance open enrollment season.
• Oregonians are getting a little more frugal when it comes to shopping, spending data shows.
• U.S. small business owner optimism dips to a six-month low on earnings.
• The longest U.S. government shutdown would relieve small businesses with federal contracts.
🔍 Recommendations
✅ Save: A site that finds and verifies promo codes for products you want to buy.
✅ Listen: An inspiring website that turns tedious background sounds into a relaxing sanctuary.
✅ Taste: Alcohol infused, all natural, organic jam for parties and events.
✅ Privacy: Try Qwant, a search engine that doesn’t track or sell your data.
💌 Thanks for Reading
If you’re reading this, you’re part of something new.
The Roseburg Reader is built for locals, by locals. Together we can make our small-town voices a little louder, one story at a time.
If this made you smile, think, or nod along, hit subscribe and send it to a friend. Let’s grow this thing together.