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This Memorial Day, we pause to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice is the foundation of the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy today. As we gather with family and friends this weekend, let’s take a moment to remember those who never came home, and reflect with gratitude on the legacy they left behind.

Have a safe Memorial Day weekend. We’ll see you Tuesday.

WEEKLY UPDATE

May 23, 2025

NEWS YOU SHOULD KNOW

There was real energy in the room when Chamber members and guests gathered at Tuesday’s Women in Leadership breakfast. This is what it looks like when women support women!

Photo by Carol Stewart

Chamber Launches Women in

Leadership with Sold-Out Event

------On Tuesday morning, the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce Women in Leadership Committee hosted the first in a new series of events designed to support, connect, and empower women leaders in the community.

------The sold-out breakfast event, Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers, was held at Silver Chamber Member Splendido at Rancho Vistoso and brought together 80 attendees for a candid and thoughtful conversation with five accomplished local leaders. The event was inspired by a pre-pandemic group of women who met regularly to discuss issues that affect women, everything from heart health to finances to the challenges of leadership. When that group disbanded during the pandemic, a noticeable gap was left behind.

------“This is something I’ve wanted to bring to our community for years,” said Kristen Sharp, President and CEO of the Oro Valley Chamber. “We took inspiration from that earlier group, gathered a steering committee, and started building something that fits today’s needs.”

------Thursday’s panel featured Carol Stewart from the University of Arizona, serving as moderator, alongside panelists Oro Valley Police Chief Kara Riley, Jenny Valenzuela and Nicole Carey from Roche Tissue Diagnostics, and Batoun Herrington of Branel Real Estate. For the event program and full bios of the panelists, click here.

------The conversation touched on a range of topics with each speaker offering stories, advice, and plenty of laughter. Some of the most memorable takeaways included:

Find your hype squad and celebrate one another.
Let go of the desire to be liked by everyone.
Great success can come from failure.
You can do it—full stop.
Say what you believe, and believe what you say.
Being vulnerable requires bravery.

------The panelists’ authenticity and candor resonated with attendees, several of whom called the event “refreshing,” “energizing,” and “long overdue.”

------The Chamber plans to host the next Women in Leadership event in September, with a focus on mental health. In the meantime, coffee meetups will offer informal opportunities for continued connection and conversation.

Splendido at Rancho Vistoso and Posh Petals sponsored Tuesday's event, and a steering committee led by Renee McCuistion of Chamber Silver member America First Credit Union helped plan and execute the event.

------If you’d like to receive notifications about future Women in Leadership events and meetups, email kristen@orovalleychamber.com to join the list.

Foundation recognizes scholarship recipients

------Your Chamber Foundation is announcing the recipients of its 2025 Mayor Steve Engle Memorial Scholarships.

------For the second year, a record-tying 20 students are receiving $1,500 each, for a total of $30,000 in scholarship awards.

------They’ll be honored at the 2025 scholarship breakfast, to be held Thursday, June 12, at Chamber Platinum member El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort. Revenue from the sale of tickets, priced at $50 each, goes to support the scholarship effort. To buy your ticket, click here.

------This year’s recipients are Alexa Moreno, Ilisa Cohen, Grace Ponzo, Tenli Woodall and Damon Coyne, Ironwood Ridge High School;

------Leeah Payne, Emma Connell and Lauren Anderson, Canyon del Oro High School;

------Allison Randall, Ironwood Ridge and a student at the University of Arizona;

------Suhaani Sodhi and Polina Varyvoda, BASIS Oro Valley;

------Catarina Cajigas, Amphitheater Online;

------Jayden Rios and Bryan Rodriguez, Flowing Wells High School;

------Kamsiyochukwu Kanma-Okafor, Amphitheater High School;

------Linda LeClair, Pima Community College;

------Julian Lopez, Marana High School;

------Olivia Johnson, Catalina Foothills High School;

------Alyssa Lopez, CDO, and Samantha Rosales, Mountain View High School, both enrolled at Northern Arizona University.

------Money for the scholarships comes from business and individual donors.

------“We’re so appreciative of the people and businesses who give of themselves so that others can pursue their academic dreams,” said Dave Perry, chair of Chamber Foundation board. “Please join us on June 12; you’ll leave with a warmed heart and a full belly of great food.”

Local celebrations for U.S. Army's 250th anniversary

------The U.S. Army’s 250th birthday is June 14, and celebrations are planned across America, in Tucson and in Oro Valley.

------The U.S. Army is marking the milestone in our nation’s capital with various events, including a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, a fitness competition, an Army birthday festival on the National Mall and an Army 250th Birthday Parade.

------Locally, celebrations begin Thursday, June 12, with a cake-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. in the main entrance of the Tucson Veterans Administration Hospital, 3601 South 6th Avenue, Tucson, Building 80.

------Then, at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 14, celebratory events are set for the Arizona Heroes Memorial, located in Oro Valley’s Naranja Park. All are welcome.

------From its founding on June 14, 1775, the U.S. Army has defended freedom older than the nation itself, a release said. It has served as “the shield of our nation, democracy and way of life, standing strong through the battlefields of the past and challenges of today.”

------Brave men and women have shaped the U.S. Army into the world’s premier fighting force. “Inspired by the next generation of soldiers, we remain committed to modernization, lethality, and regulars to face tomorrow's threats.”

------To learn more, contact Michael Bartelle, CSM, U.S. Army-Rtd., who serves as president of the Tucson-Goyette Chapter of Chamber member the Association of the United States Army. The website is www.AUSA.org, the social media page www.facebook.com/TucsonAUSA.

Chamber, Town, UACI seek applications for '25 launch

------For the fifth year, your Chamber, the Town of Oro Valley and the University of Arizona Center for Innovation are inviting applications for the 2025 UACI Sponsored Launch.

------Application submissions are due by Friday, May 30. Go to bit.ly/UACISponsoredLaunch.

------UACI, the science and technology startup incubator network of Tech Parks Arizona, operates a bioscience-focused incubator in Oro Valley’s Innovation Park, across the way from your Chamber office.

------The winning startup receives sponsored entry into UACI at Oro Valley, along with resources, specialized facilities, services and expert guidance to grow its business, an invitation said. Combined value of the package, more than $10,000, is funded by your Chamber and the town.

------The competition’s launch is part of a growing collaboration between UACI, the town of Oro Valley, and the Oro Valley Chamber, all of which have supported several startups in Oro Valley through previous sponsored launch programs.

------UACI has teamed up with Oro Valley leaders to support science and technology early-stage companies, the invitation said. Their support “empowers UACI to drive economic development in the region,” it added.

------Along with a 1-year sponsored admission, launch winners get access to a 28-point structured program, customized business mentoring, “and the ability to work alongside other startups in a fast-paced environment,” the release said. A 1-year Chamber membership is part of the offer, providing access to events, information and connections.

------UACI at Oro Valley offers access to wet and dry laboratory space, meeting rooms and comprehensive support through the UACI Program Roadmap, guiding startups through every stage, from refining their business model to obtaining funding.

------Among the qualifications, a business must have a startup team that lives or operates in the town of Oro Valley, and “is looking to make a significant difference in the local and global community through innovation.”

Town improves traffic safety at entrance to Westward Look

------Oro Valley has repaired traffic signals at the intersection of Ina Road and Westward Look Drive, intending to “improve roadway safety” at the access point to the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa.

------On Thursday, May 22, Oro Valley scheduled replacement of a traffic signal pole on the northwest corner of the intersection. Cranes were being used.

------Anyone with questions or concerns is invited to contact the town’s Public Works Department at 520-229-4850, or by emailing PW@orovalleyaz.gov.

------The Westward Look is a member of your Chamber.

Stefanie Farris selected

for SHRM GT Panel

------Stefanie Farris of Silver Chamber member Northwest Healthcare has been selected as a featured panelist for Celebrating Innovation in the Workplace: The Sizzle Session, hosted by SHRM Greater Tucson on Tuesday, June 17, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Casino Del Sol.

------This unique event flips the script — instead of hearing from HR pros, the panel features leaders from the “profit” side of the business world, including mining and healthcare, sharing how they work alongside HR to drive real innovation in the workplace. Stefanie will be joined by speakers from Komatsu and FLSmidth in a conversation moderated by Diana Charbonneau of Silver Chamber member Tucson Electric Power.

------Use code CHAMB100 for $25 off your ticket as a Chamber member and community partner. To register, click here.

U.S. Chamber lauds House passage of bill

------The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has given enthusiastic support to the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of a budget bill with tax relief. It was sent to the U.S. Senate on Thursday.

------“The House sent a clear message today — American workers and businesses want and need permanent tax relief,” said U.S. Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley. “A competitive, pro-growth tax code doesn’t just grow the overall U.S. economy, it raises wages for workers and improves the lives of Americans.”

------The legislation, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” contains “critical measures that support main street businesses, enhance America's global competitiveness, and bolster sustained economic growth,” Bradley said.

------“We encourage the Senate to continue to move the legislative process forward to deliver lasting benefits for American workers and businesses,” he added.

------For more than a year, the Chamber has executed an all-out advocacy blitz in support of pro-growth tax policy, spotlighting the positive impacts of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act for American businesses and workers.

------A public opinion survey conducted by McLaughlin & Associates on behalf of the Chamber shows a majority of voters support making tax relief permanent, and that Americans are more likely to vote for a candidate who advocates for permanent tax relief.

------The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization. Your Chamber is a dues-paying member.

MEMBER HAPPENINGS

Memorial Day Event at Arizona Heroes Memorial

------All are invited to honor and remember America’s brave heroes this Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, at the Arizona Heroes Memorial in Oro Valley.

------The commemoration takes place from 10 a.m. to noon at the memorial, located at 810 Naranja Park Drive.

------Warm greetings and heartfelt acknowledgements begin the ceremony. Colors are being posted. U.S. Air Force Capt. Brandon Rogers, a military chaplain at Davis Monthan Air Force Base, leads a prayer and invocation at 10:10 a.m.

------“We will take a moment to reflect and honor those who have served,” an invitation said.

------Open tours begin at 10:15 a.m. Guests can stroll the grounds and engage with dedicated volunteers stationed at each of the service walls. Traditional poppies are being given to honor the fallen.

------At noon, the event concludes with the raising of the American flag, followed by the playing of Taps, paying tribute to those who have given their all for our freedom.

------“This Memorial Day, let’s come together as a community to honor the sacrifices of our military heroes,” the invitation said.

Sol Dog 'Donuts, Donations & Dogs' event Saturday, 6/7

------Sol Dog Lodge and Training Center hosts its next Donuts, Donations & Dogs fund-raising event on Saturday, June 7, from 7 to 11 a.m. at its newly opened 11862 N. Tangerine Business Loop campus.

------Pet food is being collected for the Marana Food Bank.

------Sol Dog Lodge dog trainers plan to be “in the house” from 7 to 9 a.m. to meet people and answer questions about dog training, according to Shelley Harris of Sol Dog Lodge. The Al Gusto Coffee Company is going to be in the parking lot, and owner Aldo Boccaccio has agreed to give a free cup of coffee to anyone who makes a pet food donation, Harris said. The donuts are free.

------“Join for a bark and brew morning mingle where pets and caffeine meet,” an invitation said.

------Sol Dog Lodge is beginning its rattlesnake avoidance classes on Sundays in the summer starting June 1. Sessions, presented by Animal Experts Inc., must be booked. They run from 7 to 10 a.m. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 and Sept. 21. The cost is $125 per session. To schedule, call Marc at 520-272-1825.

------Boarding slots at Sol Dog are booked solid the rest of May and much of June, Harris said. “It’s incredible the support we’ve received from Gladden Farms and Dove Mountain,” she said.

------The website is soldoglodge.com.

Nonprofit Collaborative starts up Tuesday, 6/17

------The premier meeting for your Chamber’s Non-Profit Collaborative is set for Tuesday, June 17, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Chamber’s 1822 Innovation Park Drive office.

------Leah Bahan, business development director for your Chamber, describes the collaborative as “a special gathering of nonprofits dedicated to mutual support and collaboration to strengthen our collective ability to serve our communities.”

------All Chamber non-profits are welcome to send representatives. It’s free to attend.

------It’s a chance to share insights about your organization’s mission and programs, to share challenges, to learn about one another’s work, to network, and to discover ways “to complement and enhance services.”

------Go to orovalleychamber.com to RSVP.

3-part SCORE series teaches ins, outs of business contracts

------“Mastering Business Contracts,” a 3-part workshop for small business owners, is being presented digitally by SCORE Southern Arizona on 3 Tuesdays, June 3, 10 and 17.

------Veteran attorney Bruce Pearson “breaks down key contract concepts in plain English, helping you confidently navigate and negotiate agreements,” an invitation said.

------He starts with “Contract Fundamentals” on Tuesday, June 3, continues with “Key Provisions to Watch” on June 10, and concludes with “Negotiation Strategies” on June 17.

------Each session is priced at $15. Click here to register and to confirm starting times.

------“A strong understanding of contracts is essential for running a successful business,” an invitation said. “Whether you’re dealing with vendors, customers, or service providers, contracts shape the foundation of your business relationships. Yet, many small business owners struggle with contract basics, leading to costly disputes, dissatisfied customers, and strained vendor relationships.”

------SCORE is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Take little steps toward fitness, Northwest says

------If it’s been a while since you’ve hit the gym, gone for a run or even lifted weights, you're not alone.

------The Department of Health and Human Services recommends getting 150 minutes of moderate-intensity (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity) per week, in addition to two days of strength training. However, the CDC reports that less than 25% of adults meet those benchmarks.

------“We understand,” said a note from Chamber Silver member Northwest Healthcare / Oro Valley Hospital. “Stepping away from your work or family obligations is hard, even for 20 to 30 minutes.” But, it emphasized, adding exercise to your life can boost your heart health, strengthen muscles and bones, and improve mood, sleep quality and cognition.

------Northwest Healthcare suggests you:

------Make small changes. Where can you incorporate more movement into your day? Could you park a little further away, take the stairs or use a standing desk at the office?

------Set realistic goals. Set specific, realistic goals and when you want to achieve them.

------Try gentle activities. Start by incorporating low-impact exercises like stretching, walking or yoga into your daily routine. Aim for 10 minutes daily.

------Incorporate variety. They say, “Variety is the spice of life,” and that same energy should apply to your routines. Alternating between cardio and strength training is one thing, but make sure you don’t get so bored that you quit. For example, if you’re tired of the treadmill, try biking, hiking or even hula-hooping.

------Make it fun. Social interaction while working out can increase motivation, boost mood and reduce stress, so find a class to join or recruit a workout buddy.

------Remember, any step, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction when it comes to your health. You might feel a little rusty at first, but with time and consistency, you will be stronger and healthier.

------Click here to learn more.

Coldwell Banker collecting food donations in Oro Valley

------Chamber member Bruce Baca at Coldwell Banker Realty is requesting donations for a community food bank drive.

------“Together, we can help provide nourishment to children, families and seniors in need,” an invitation said.

------In-office donations are being accepted at Coldwell Banker’s Oro Valley office, 11165 N. La Canada Drive, Suite 175. The food bank partner is the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. Monetary contributions are welcome, too.

------People can give dry and canned food donations, basically “any food that is shelf-stable or nonperishable,” an invitation said. Items such as peanut butter, canned soups, fruits, vegetables, stews, fish and beans, pasta and rice are among most-needed items.

------“Thank you for your interest in our charity event,” Baca said. “Lives are being changed due to the generosity of caring community members like you."

'Face Forward' photo exhibit opens June 4 in Roche gallery

------“Face Forward,” a new photography exhibition “celebrating the beauty, resilience, and individuality captured through portraiture,” is opening at Chamber Platinum member Roche Tissue Diagnostics in Oro Valley.

An opening night reception is planned from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 4, in the Ventana Gallery on Roche’s Innovation Park campus.

Guests can enjoy live music, snacks, “and the chance to experience stories told through the lens,” an invitation said. “From fleeting moments to intimate self-reflections, each image offers a window into the human spirit.”

Admission is free. RSVP is requested; click here.

Corie Sue's Creations hosts Memorial sale

------Corinne Babcock, owner of chamber member Corie Sue's Creations, announces a special Memorial Day Sale on pine needle baskets with military symbol for the 4 services (Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Navy) at the La Encantada Southern Arizona Arts Guild (SAAG) Gallery (2905 E. Skyline Dr) through the end of May. The baskets are discounted 20% for this limited time only.

Arizona Central Credit Union offers 2, $2,000 scholarships

------Chamber member Arizona Central Credit Union is inviting applications for its CU Succeed Scholarship.

------Every year, the credit union awards 2 $2,000 CU Succeed Scholarships to eligible, graduating high school seniors.

------Applicants must be credit union members, graduating seniors with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher, and must be accepted to and plan on attending full-time an accredited college, university, community college, or technical / trade school located in Arizona.

------The scholarship is renewable annually for a maximum of four consecutive years.

------Applications are needed before June 8. To learn more, or to apply, click here.

Holiday weekend sale at OV's Nest in the Desert

------The Memorial Day Sale, 15% off storewide except for paper products, runs through Monday, May 26, at Chamber member Nest in the Desert.

------“This week we are spotlighting the finishing touches that elevate any space and layering to bring it to life,” owner Robyn Halperin said. Highlighted items are pillows, throws, ceramic bowls, candleholders, trays and more.

------“Come see it all styled in-store,” the invitation said. “Our team brings that designer touch, even if you're just adding to what's already there. ... Your home isn't a blank slate, it's a canvas to keep layering on.”

------Nest in the Desert is located at 7954 North Oracle, in Plaza Escondida at Magee and Oracle in Oro Valley. The website is nestinthedesert.com.

Annual OV concert series goes to local spots in 2025

------The annual Oro Valley Concert Series is “bringing the beat to your favorite local spots,” according to Chamber member the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance and the Town of Oro Valley.

------Starting June 1 and running through August, guests can enjoy live music, local food, and “unforgettable vibes” at community restaurants, breweries, and businesses across the region.

------“Whether you're into folk rock, blues, country, or Latin soul, there's a sound (and a seat) for everyone,” SAACA said. “All concerts are free and open to the public.”

------The season starts Sunday, June 1, from 6 to 8 p.m., when Jon Frailey of Cat Mountain performs folk rock music at Chamber member OV Pizza & Pints, 11165 N. La Cañada.

------Bryan & Koko play blues and rock Friday, June 13, from 6 to 8 at Chamber member Fork & Fire Smokehouse, 11835 N. Oracle Rd, Suite 101.

------Eric Schaffer presents a solo set of Americana music Sunday, June 22, from 5 to 7 at Chamber member Rosati’s Pizza, 12152 N. Rancho Vistoso Blvd.

------Brett Dooley plays Americana at another Chamber member, Wildfire Wings & Grill, 15318 N. Oracle, Suite 180 in Catalina, on Sunday, June 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.

------“Bring a friend, grab a bite, and soak up the sounds of summer in Oro Valley,” an invitation said. Go to saaca.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

June

Gen Z Committee Meeting

Free, 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce

1822 E Innovation Park Dr.

Please join us for the Gen Z Committee meeting! Are you Gen Z and wanting to make friends and business connections that are your age? Please join us for a fun hour of connection after work. Everyone (under 30) is welcome to attend!

June

Mayor Steve Engle Memorial Scholarship Breakfast

$50 tickets, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.

El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort

10000 N Oracle Rd.

Please join us on Thursday, June 12 at El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort for an Awards Breakfast to recognize outstanding young scholarship recipients and their families.

The breakfast buffet begins at 8:30 a.m., the program promptly at 9 a.m. Tickets are $50 and each one helps provide a free breakfast for a scholarship recipient.

Please arrive in plenty of time to park, go through the buffet line and be seated for the program to begin at 9 a.m.

June

Wisdom Wednesday, "Dimentia Live Training"

$5 for members, $15 for guests, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce

1822 E Innovation Park Dr.

Dive into a world of knowledge and growth at our Wisdom Wednesdays!

Right at Home Tucson will be leading this workshop on Dementia. Dementia Live Training offers a unique, hands on experience to help you "walk in the shoes" of someone living with dementia. Participants will gain awareness of the challenges associated with cognitive changes and leave with valuable tips and tools to improve communication and connection. The team will bring specialized gear that simulates dementia - specific changes, including altered eyesight, hearing, and tactile sensation.

We'll see you there!

June

Evening Mixer with Roche

$5 for members, $15 for guests, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Roche Tissue Diagnostics

1910 Innovation Park Dr.

Join us for our June evening mixer! Connect with fellow professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The premier networking event you won't want to miss!