$30,000 in scholarships were awarded to 20 students in 2024. Students, donors, and supporters gathered at Chamber member Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa to celebrate last June.

Scholarship applications are

open; you can help a student

------Applications are being accepted now for your Chamber Foundation’s Mayor Steve Engle Memorial Scholarship.

------Students in Oro Valley, Marana, Catalina, Oracle, San Manuel, unincorporated Pima County and Tucson are invited to complete the applications before Friday, March 21.

------Each year, the Chamber Foundation awards 1-time, $1,500 scholarships to students studying at an Arizona college, university or vocational / trade school. Last year, with the help of donors, we gave a record $30,000 in awards.

------To learn more, email Leah Noreng at the Chamber, leah@orovalleychamber.com.

------To learn more, click here.

------Would you like to support a scholarship? Email Dave Perry, chair of the Chamber Foundation board, at daveperry56@yahoo.com, or text or call him at 520-334-0349.

Chamber Foundation helps bring jazz players to CDO

------With a $3,600, last-minute grant, your Oro Valley Chamber Foundation helped bring Canyon del Oro alumnus Hans Schuman and his organization JazzReach to CDO High School.

------On Jan. 29, New York City-based JazzReach players provided clinical instruction and small-group musical mentorship to students in Ranee Schmuker’s music program. Hans, founder, executive director and artistic director of the jazz education organization, was thrilled to share his journey with aspiring musicians at his alma mater.

------“Ranee was so warm, welcoming and hospitable and her students were an absolute delight to work with. Engaged, attentive, curious, open-minded, friendly and focused. Great kids!” he said.

------“I have to say this was one of my favorite clinics in my career here at CDO,” Schmuker said afterward. “Many kids reached out unprompted afterwards saying it was the ‘best jazz experience they have ever had,’ and were all so appreciative of Hans and the Quintet musicians for coming in and spending ensemble, individual and performance time with them.”

------“We are so thankful for your support in sponsoring this event,” the CDO band director told the Foundation board. “Huge, huge benefit to my program and our community to have this caliber of jazz education at our doorsteps and performance level on our stage working with our kids. Just amazing!”

------While he was here, by the way, Hans helped himself to an eegee’s sub and drink.

------The Oro Valley Chamber Foundation uses grants and scholarships to help Oro Valley and its citizens reach their greatest potential. You can help. To learn more, go to OVfoundation.org.

Free legal tips given at workshop in OV Feb. 12

------New business people can learn legal tips from Chamber member attorney Mike Boreale during a free workshop this Wednesday, Feb. 12.

------“Legal Tips For Your First Two Years in Business” runs from 3 to 5 p.m. that day at Oro Valley Town Hall. It is the third of four free start-up classes offered by the town of Oro Valley and StartUp Tucson.

------“Starting a business involves a laundry list of things you’re likely doing for the first time,” said Margie Adler, the town’s economic development specialist. “When it comes to the legal things on that list, it can be extra intimidating to know where to start.”

------Boreale Law, PLC, has aided your Chamber and its Foundation with legal matters for years.

------To sign up, click here.

OV Rotary's 'A Taste of Oro Valley' set April 13

------Rotary Club of Oro Valley is getting ready for its 10th annual A Taste of Oro Valley fundraising event Sunday, April 13, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at historic Steam Pump Ranch.

------Guests can enjoy delicious cuisine and beverages from local restaurants. Laramita Cellars and Catalina Brewing Company. The OnesAll band is performing. You can bid on excursions and gifts from local vendors in the silent auction, and enter to win a 50/50 raffle. Kids will enjoy activities with Make Way for Books, and face painting.

------“By attending A Taste of Oro Valley, you will also be helping us make our community stronger,” the invitation said. “Proceeds from this event benefit the Oro Valley Rotary Foundation,” providing funds and goods to qualified nonprofits.

------This year’s recipients are Edge High School, Chamber members IMPACT of Southern Arizona and Freedom Warriors, and Make Way for Books.

------Tickets are on sale now at tasteoforovalley.org.

Bring your pasta for IMPACT to Chamber

------Your Chamber is collecting pasta for IMPACT of Southern Arizona.

------Anyone want to add canned tomatoes?

------Your help is requested with the month-long pasta drive. Drop off pasta at the Chamber office, 1822 E. Innovation Park Drive, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. If staff is away, leave your donation next door with Dr. Watson at Chamber member Chiropractic USA.

------Every month, IMPACT provides 300 clients a bag of food containing seven items recommended by the USDA. Those foods are cereal, peanut butter, canned meat (chicken or tuna), canned tomatoes, pasta, canned vegetables and canned soup.

------IMPACT has help paying for peanut butter and cereal.

------“We are now seeking businesses, clubs, churches or any groups that would like to help collect one of the staple items for our Impact bags,” said Impact’s Cody Wilkinson, director of food programs. IMPACT food bag sponsors help collect 300 needed items during a month.

------To learn more, call Cody at 520-825-0009, email him at cody@impactsoaz.org, or go to the website, impactsoaz.org. You could collect items for a month ... or longer.

------IMPACT is giving “a huge thank-you” to the Catalina Oro Valley Lions Club for volunteering to pack bags each month.

OOROO's Joyride helps 2 with need car repairs

------For the eighth year, OOROO Auto’s holiday Joyride helped 2 people with free, much-needed auto repairs.

------There were 47 nominations for the Joyride this season, according to Jamie Pettigrew, community relations coordinator for OOROO Auto. Five volunteer judges picked among deserving candidates.

------“One of our recipients, who did not want their name shared, is a teacher at a local Tucson high school and is always going above and beyond for her students, volunteering her time at school dances and working the scoreboard at sporting events,” Pettigrew said. “She spends a lot of her own money to help the kids she teaches and even sponsors the sophomore class.”

------OOROO workers repaired the teacher’s broken shock mount, replaced rear shock absorbers, and caught up on maintenance, to include new spark plugs and fluids.

------This year’s second recipient, Carolina Reyes Yarmeak, is a hardworking caregiver at the Veterans Administration hospital, and a dedicated mom of 3. “She volunteers when she can at the Arizona state home helping veterans with activities,” Pettigrew said.

------Carolina’s engine mounts were broken. OOROO replaced an emissions valve, timing belt and water pump, front control arms, front struts, rear shocks, steering rack and pinion, power steering hoses, wiper blades and a battery, Pettigrew said. “We also did an oil change.”

------Carolina “was very grateful for OOROO and felt like it has been such a gift to not have to worry about her car,” Pettigrew said. “We are hopeful for more opportunities in the future to give back to our communities with Joyride.”

------With Joyride, Oro Valley-based OOROO Auto provides work values at $1,000 for needy people. Go to oorooauto.com.

Freytag Ortho has positions open

------Are you or someone you know looking for an exciting job in the dental field? Apply now to start working as a Patient Manager for Freytag Orthodontics.

------You'll enjoy great hours, a flexible work week, rewarding wages, great benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

------Orthodontic Assistants work directly on patient's braces and assist patients with their Invisalign treatments so that all patients receive the highest level of on time service.

------This is a full time position with pay between $18-20 per hour. High school or equivalent certificate is required as well as radiology certification with some dental experience preferred. Candidates will work in person at both the Oro Valley and Marana locations.

------To apply click here.

Nest's 'Galentine's Day' party Thursday, Feb.13

------Nest in the Desert is hosting an exclusive “Galentine’s Day” event this Thursday, Feb. 13, at its Oracle and Magee location.

------Drinks and refreshments are being served from 4 to 6 p.m.

------Guests can also “ValenSHINE” with “Bling by Wilkening” and meet jewelry designer Whitney Wilkening-Daube. She’ll share pieces from her new collection “featuring sumptuous spring colors,” Nest owner Robyn Halperin said.

------Chamber member Nest in the Desert offers furniture, lighting, accessories, gifts, artwork, home décor and design services. It is located at 7954 N. Oracle, the southeast corner of Oracle and Magee. The phone is 520-297-8299, the website nestinthedesert.com.

Valencia Youth Soccer Camp comes to Oro Valley

------The Rotary Club of Oro Valley, in cooperation with the Town of Oro Valley, will be hosting a very special youth soccer training camp from March 17-21. The camp will be conducted by members of the professional football club of Valencia, Spain at Naranja Park in Oro Valley. The VCF Academy consists of five-days of soccer training, taught by professional players and coaches from Spain following the team’s methodology.

------Go to www.vcfinternationalcamps.com to register. The first 30 registrants will get a discount.

------Training sessions on the field will be complemented by video and whiteboard sessions adapted to each age group. On the fifth day of the camp, a series of exhibition games will be held, which will be open to the public, parents, and families. The day will conclude with a group photo, the delivery of diplomas, awards and gifts, and a farewell to all. Camp participants will receive an official Valencia C.F. PUMA kit consisting of a training shirt, training shorts and socks, plus a gift from the VCF.

------From each camp, players will be selected and given the unique opportunity to travel to Spain. They will play in an international tournament with the VCF selection team, playing against the best teams in the world. In addition, they will train at Valencia C.F. facilities, meet the players and receive many more surprises.

------For more information, contact Rick Chimblo at rchimblo@hotmail.com or Ivan Malter-Terrada Soler (Valencia C.F.) at ivanmts@nitidiasport.com.

Tucson Bicycle Classic returns to OV with new course

------The Tucson Bicycle Classic returns to Oro Valley on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, featuring a reimagined, more challenging course for the Oro Valley Circuit Race, presented by Rutledge Dental. The 2.8-mile circuit at Naranja Park includes a 1-mile climb up Musette Road, averaging a 3% grade with short bursts of 7%, followed by a fast descent down Monterra Vista.

------Spectators can watch from key spots like the Start/Finish Line on Musette Road or the Naranja and Monterra Vista corner, where riders take a sharp turn after descending. The best viewing is along Oro Valley’s shared-use paths. Parking is available at the Oro Valley Library, as there will be no parking at Naranja Park.

------Road closures will be in effect from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Musette Road, Monterra Vista (southbound only), and Naranja Road between Monterra Vista and Musette.

------Volunteers are needed to help run the event, and host housing is also sought for visiting cyclists. Hosts provide a bed, bathroom access, and bike storage but are not expected to provide food or transportation.

------For more details, visit tucsonbicycleclassic.com.

We Care Tucson golf raises funds April 10

------We Care Tucson is inviting golfers to “team and tee off” in support of its efforts on Thursday, April 10, at the Arizona National Golf Club.

------The charity fund-raiser is a shotgun start, four-person scramble. There are prizes, raffles, a silent auction, lunch and awards.

------Sponsorships and team entries are available.

------Chamber member nonprofit We Care Tucson is dedicated “to fostering education, information, and wellness accessibility within the Tucson community,” its website said. The organization refurbishes donated technology and medical equipment for people in need. In doing so, “we empower sustainability and equity for all,” it said.

------It sells restored computers at affordable prices from its store at 3029 N. Stone. Hours are 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, and noon-6 p.m. Wednesday.

------Go to wecaretucson.org.

A Wise Move PT offers open office space

------A Wise Move Physical Therapy and Pilates is offering office space. The space is a 9'x12' room inside a sole practice for physical therapy and Pilates. There is access to a kitchen/break room area with some additional storage space, if needed. Handwashing station right outside the door. The space could be workable for just an office space or for a treatment room for massage, acupuncture or other types of services. Please call or text Heidi Fisher at 520-488-6715 for more information or to arrange a time to see the space.

Amphi's gala is April 5; tix, sponsorships on sale now

------Tickets and sponsorships are on sale now for the Amphi Foundation’s signature event on Saturday, April 5.

------This year’s “reimagined” event is Amphi Gala 2.0: Bigger, Better, Unforgettable!

------Amphi Foundation is expanding its beloved student showcase, featuring foundation-funded programming, and highlighting “more talent and creativity in student performances.”

------The dinner service is shortened. Amphi award winners are celebrated, and the night finishes with “engaging activities, games, and fun.

------“Let's celebrate our award winners, recognize outstanding teachers, and be inspired by amazing students,” an invitation said. “Come for the cause ... stay for the celebration.”

------Tickets are $175 per person, $1,750 for a table of 10. To learn more, call 520.696.5147 or email amphifnd@amphi.com.

Ceramic artists' sale at Tohono Chul Feb. 15-16

------Chamber member Tohono Chul hosts the Southern Arizona Clay Artists’ ceramics show and sale Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 15-16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Garden Pavilion.

------Admission is free during the sale.

------The semiannual event more than 25 talented ceramic artists from the SACA.

------“From gallery-quality creations to functional and decorative pieces, this event offers a diverse selection of stunning works to suit every style and budget,” an invitation said. Items range from unique vases to functional masterpieces and striking additions to your home décor.

------To learn more, click here.

The Post extends its New Year's special to Feb. 28

------Due to high demand, Chamber member The Post Workspaces is extending its New Year’s Special through Feb. 28.

------“We know how important flexibility and the right workspace are for solo professionals, start-ups, and small business owners like you,” an invitation said.

------People who sign up get the first month free, waiver of the set-up fee, double meeting room credits and five free hours in The Post’s flex space.

------“Whether you’re scaling up, pivoting, or just need a professional space without a long-term commitment, our private offices provide the perfect solution,” the invite said.

------To book a tour, or to learn more, click here.

------The Post Workspaces is located at 7400 N. Oracle, Suite 150. The website is thepostworkspaces.com.

GTL accepting applications for 2026 Lead Tucson Class

------Greater Tucson Leadership (GTL), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to cultivating strong community leaders, is now accepting applications for the Lead Tucson Class of 2026. As GTL’s flagship leadership program, Lead Tucson is a 10-month immersive experience designed for dynamic, diverse, and driven professionals eager to expand their network, sharpen their leadership skills, and gain a deeper understanding of Tucson’s community, culture, and history. Participants will engage in meaningful discussions, embrace different perspectives, and step out of their comfort zones while making a lasting impact in their workplaces and communities. Graduates join a network of over a thousand alums shaping Tucson’s future across various sectors.

------Key Dates:

• Application Deadline: April 27, 2025
• Candidate Interviews: May 2025
• Acceptance Notifications: May 31, 2025
• Program Start Date: August 22, 2025

------To help prospective applicants learn more, GTL is hosting two virtual information sessions:

• Virtual Info Session 1, March 25, 2025, from 12 - 12:30 pm – Click HERE to register
• Virtual Info Session 2, April 15, 2025, from 12 - 12:30 pm – Click HERE to register

------Do not miss this opportunity to lead change and make a difference in our community. Apply today and become part of the legacy of leadership at Greater Tucson Leadership! Submit your application here: Lead Tucson Application

------Have questions? Check out Lead Tucson FAQ, contact GTL at (520) 209-2734, or email info@greatertucsonleadership.org.

Sol PT has advice for Super Bowl back care

------Take these steps to tackle back pain during this Sunday’s Super Bowl, advises Chamber Copper member Sol Physical Therapy.

------“Enjoy the game without discomfort,” it advises in a blog.

------To protect your back, Sol advises you to:

------1 – Set up your viewing space for comfort. “Use lumbar pillows or rolled-up towels to give your lower back extra cushioning, and make sure your feet are flat on the floor or a footrest to maintain proper posture,” it advises.

------2. -- Take standing breaks. “Set a reminder and stand up and stretch every 30 minutes during the game,” it said.

------3 – Use heat or ice for relief. A heating pad can relax your muscles; an ice pack can help reduce inflammation.

------4 – Stretch before kickoff.

------5 – Strengthen your core. Planks and bridges can lead to long-term back pain relief.

------6 – Choose healthy snacks. Nuts, fruits and vegetables can help keep pain at bay.

------7 – Hydrate.

------To learn more, click here.

Southwest Archaeology comes to Steam Pump Ranch

------February 8 is the last day to see the Oro Valley Historical Society’s exhibit at the Pusch House Museum, featuring All in a Day’s Work – Life on the Ranch from 9 a.m. – noon.

------If you ever wondered what it was like to live at Steam Pump Ranch, we can show you with pictures, documents, equipment, clothing, and more.  This exhibit will show how owners of the Ranch and their employees spent their days from the late 1800’s until the early 2000’s. Some of you may not know that the Town of Oro Valley purchased the Steam Pump Ranch from the owners of the property in 2007. Since then, some changes have been made, and we will take you back to the days before 2007 to the beginning, about 1874, as we work to keep Oro Valley history alive. 

------Also, at Steam Pump Ranch on February 8, Southwest Archaeology will have their own activities in the Heritage Garden. Have you ever heard of or seen a figeater necklace or a substance called lac? Come see what insects can do, while watching Allen Denoyer use his flintknapping skills.

------Volunteers will be on hand in the Museum to answer any questions and provide you with additional information. Visits to the Museum are complimentary and donations are gratefully accepted. Enjoy shopping at the Heirloom Farmers’ Market, and learning from Southwest Archaeology and the Oro Valley Historical Society. History loves company!

Zuni fetish carvings at parks store Feb. 15

------Zuni fetish carvings are featured in a show at the National Parks Store in Oro Valley next Saturday, Feb. 15.

------The show runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at the store, located within Chamber member Western National Parks Association in Oro Valley’s Innovation Park. Admission is free.

------Zuni fetish carvings, made from stones but sometimes accented with wood, bones or precious metals, feature different animals and beings, according to a show announcement. “Today, these traditional style carvings emphasize the connection between the spiritual and human worlds.”

------Go to wnpa.org.

PlayPalooza Family Festival returns April 26th at Second Sky

------Chamber member The Play District is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated PlayPalooza Family Festival, coming to the new and innovative Second Sky community space on Saturday, April 26th, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

------This year's event will focus on STEM development in children, community building, and the power of PLAY, promising an unforgettable day for Tucson families. PlayPalooza is designed to bring the community together while showcasing the best in family-friendly businesses, activities, and entertainment.

------"This year, we're going bigger than ever," says Katie Yaeli, founder of The Play District. "Second Sky is the perfect setting for our spring festival, providing an exciting and spacious indoor environment that's ideal for families and vendors alike."

------Highlights of the event include:

• Interactive STEM-focused activities for kids
• A diverse lineup of local vendors and sponsors offering family-friendly products and services
• Fun, hands-on play areas and entertainment for children of all ages
• Opportunities to connect with Tucson's thriving community

------In previous years, PlayPalooza has drawn crowds of over 3,000 attendees, making it one of Tucson's most popular family events. This year's festival will also have a lasting impact on the community, as the event will directly benefit the development of Second Sky, a vibrant new community hub dedicated to fostering creativity, connection, and education. Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn more about Second Sky and contribute to its mission, learn more now at SecondSky.org.

------The Play District is currently seeking vendors, sponsors, and community partners to join the excciting event. Businesses looking to showcase their offerings to thousands of local families can apply now here.

------For more information, vendor applications, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Katie Yaeli at tucson@theplaydistrict.com or visit www.theplaydistrict.com.

Queenie Naturals & Wellness announces new year, new services

------Queenie Naturals and Wellness is announcing new services for the new year.

------Korean BB Glow Facial consists of Korean rejuvenating serums that contain natural pigment color to match the skin tone to provide a natural even skin tone, while benefiting from the delivery method of microneedling. This is a unisex service.

------High Frequency (PF) is a treatment to add to services for the benefit of stimulating the oxygen and lymphatic blood flow, increased circulation, increased collagen production, killing acne-causing bacteria, decrease sebum production, tightened skin, minimize appearance of enlarged pores.

------To schedule a service, visit queenienaturals.square.site.

Pima Federal Credit Union selling tickets to golf classic

------Chamber Diamond member Pima Federal Credit Union is preparing for their signature golf event, the 12th Annual Pima Federal Golf Classic on Thursday, May 1st at The Golf Club at Dove Mountain.

------Players will enjoy a day of golf at a world-class course featuring breakfast and lunch on the patio with spectacular views, raffle prizes, and a $100 voucher to spend at the on-site Pro Shop.

------This event has raised $706,000 for the community since 2013. This year, the event's beneficiaries are fellow Chamber members IMPACT of Southern Arizona and Youth on Their Own.

------Early bird pricing for the event ends March 14th. For tickets and more information visit pimafederal.org/golfclassic.

Navy Week event at AZ Heroes Memorial

------Join the Arizona Heroes Memorial on February 19th at 3 p.m. for the Navy Proclamation. This event is free and open to the public.

------Navy Week proclamations are a wonderful way for the Navy and local communities, like Oro Valley, to come together and celebrate the Navy being in the city. It provides the Navy a chance to showcase their Navy Band Southwest and USS Constitution color guard team, while also recognizing Vietnam War veterans of all services and our U.S. Navy Gold Star family members in the Tucson area. Additionally, the community has the chance to engage with hometown Sailors and Sailors from one of our namesake assets.

------To learn more, click here.