Thursday, Feb. 4, 9 a.m.
This Thursday, Feb. 4 at 9 a.m., please join us via Zoom for a "Let's Connect" conversation about plans for Oro Valley Marketplace, to be known as the Oro Valley Village Center.
Our guest is Jim Horvath, CEO of the Town West Companies, owner of the Marketplace.
Town West has ambitious plans for the Marketplace / Village Center, which it acquired just over a year ago. Apartment communities, hotels and an entertainment / recreation district are part of the plan, which is being presented to the Oro Valley Town Council sometime in 2021. For more information on the Village Center, go to orovalleyvillagecenter.com.
“Let’s Connect” is free and open to all, and your questions are welcome. Click here to register.
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This Week's
Update
Friday, Jan. 29, 2021
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Hot off the press;
2021 Map & Guide
We have distributed more than 8,000 Map and Guides to date! That means we only have 17,000 more! They have your name on them (and in them). Give the office a call at 520-297-2191 or email Duane and we'll get some out to you.
Students, get an
application for
’21 scholarships
Your Chamber and its Foundation once again plan to award scholarships this year in the name of the late Steve Engle, one of Oro Valley’s first mayors.
Application forms are now available for the 2021 Steve Engle Memorial Scholarship / Oro Valley Chamber Foundation scholarship.
To get an application, email Duane Macklin, Chamber member services director.
Applications are needed by the close of business Friday, April 2.
Applications have been emailed to 12 area high schools, Pima County JTED, and Pima Community College.
The 4 Ps of a
good meeting
From the Internet, the “4 Ps” for a good meeting:
People: Who is the appropriate audience, who is necessary, who is superfluous?
Purpose: Is it an ‘inform’ or ‘decision’ meeting?
Process: Is it a presentation or discussion?
Product: What is the outcome of the meeting?
Free smile aid
for injured mom
through AZOMS
Chamber member Arizona Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons has recognized its fourth annual Second Chance recipient.
Jennifer Hayes, a mom of 4 and lab technician, was struck by a drunken driver in 2011, resulting in damage or loss of nearly all her teeth.
To help Jennifer, Arizona Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons is giving her a free smile makeover, valued near $50,000, according to a story in Chamber Platinum member The Arizona Daily Star.
Arizona Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons is located at 1876 E. Innovation Park Drive, in Oro Valley’s Innovation Corporate Center. The website is azoms.com.
More help now
available for
utility payments
In December, the Arizona Corporation Commission approved expansion of aid for low-income families, and relief for customers with overdue electric bills, according to a release from Chamber member Tucson Electric Power.
More households may qualify for TEP’s Lifeline low-income assistance program. Eligibility now extends to household incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level, up from the previous cap of 150 percent.
Commissioners also directed regulated utilities to create 8-month payment plans for residential customers with delinquent accounts.
Go dark before
sleep, #agewell
tip suggests
An #agewell tip from Mather, parent company of Chamber Copper member Splendido at Rancho Vistoso:
Avoid bright screens before bed.
As we all face more screen time right now, keep in mind that you can ease chronic sleep problems by winding down in the dark, according to the #agewell tip.
“Dimmer lighting triggers your brain’s release of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin, while bright artificial light can have the opposite effect. Switch off the TV and put away the smartphone for at least an hour before bed.”
Splendido at Rancho Vistoso is a continuing care community for those 55-and-better. For tours, go to splendidotucson.com.
Profile by Sanford seeks business development
Chamber member Profile by Sanford is looking for a business development and coordinator specialist who would plan and implement strategies to identify innovative and new opportunities, infiltrate new business markets, and expand brand awareness to the local community. Click here for the job posting.
Homewood Suites needs an engineer
Chamber member Homewood Suites by Hilton St. Philip’s Plaza has an opening for a maintenance engineer, responsible for assisting with the operation, maintenance, service and repair of equipment as assigned. Other duties include preventative maintenance, addressing guest requests, carpentry, painting, plumbing, driving and more.
Trico has a deal
for shade trees
Plant some savings with Trico’s Operation Cool Shade, which has resumed this month.
Trico members can purchase up to 3 low-cost, low-water trees for $15 each. To do so, visit www.trico.coop.
Chamber member Trico serves residents in a swath across northwest Tucson, to include SaddleBrooke. The website is here.
MEND offers ‘21
new client specials
Chamber member MEND Massage Therapy & Restorative Skincare has New Year’s specials for first-time clients.
New guests can get discounts on 1-hour massages, 90-minute massages, facials or combo massage and facial.
MEND is also offering a $69 Reiki session for new clients wrestling with anxiety, sleep deprivation or heightened fatigue.
MEND is located at 15920 N. Oracle, Suite 170 in Catalina. The phone is 520-771-1514, click here for their website.
Get a deal on
catering at
Panera Bread
Kick off the new year with Panera Bread catering.
Through Feb. 28, customers can find a coupon worth a $25 discount on your next catering order of $150 or more. You can order online here.
Catering customers can enjoy flexible service, a wide array of options for every occasion, group and dietary preference, safe service and further rewards, an invitation said. View the flyer here.
Panera Bread is located at Oracle and First Avenue in Oro Valley.
Morris Hall gives
free webinars
every Tuesday
Chamber member Morris Hall has begun free virtual webinars each Tuesday to answer various questions people ask when planning for future life events.
Subject matter includes dealing with incapacity, alternatives to guardianship, co-trustees vs. joint tenancy, the death of a loved one, the differences between a will and a trust, important health care documents, and more.
Wendy W. Harn is a Morris Hall partner and attorney. Offices are located at 2506 E. Vistoso Commerce Loop, #150 in Oro Valley.
Make-A-Wish hosts Delicious Wishes @ Home
Make-A-Wish invites you to join their Delicious Wishes @ Home - Valentine's Edition.
Learn to cook an intimate dinner from "the best chefs in Tucson," chefs Michael Elefante and Gary Hickey.
Join via Zoom on Thursday, Feb. 4, 6-7 p.m. All proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish Arizona.
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Where to go for help with new PPP
The federal Small Business Administration has reopened the Paycheck Protection Program, based on legislation signed by President Trump on Dec. 27.
Within your Chamber, financial institutions able to help in this next round of PPP funding are:
Commerce Bank of Arizona, Paul Tees, 520-321-0412;
Diamond member Pima Federal Credit Union, Mario Haller, 520-887-5010, extension 4405.
For information on “first draw” PPP loans, to help keep workers employed during the pandemic, click here: First Draw.
For information on “second draw” PPP loans, if you have received PPP funds, previously, click here: Second Draw.
OV photo contest
open through 3/8
The first Oro Valley Community Photography Competition is under way, with cash prizes and the chance to be featured on the cover of the January 2022 edition of the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance publication Undercover Arts Magazine.
The contest, in conjunction with the Town of Oro Valley, is intended “to capture the essence of Oro Valley life, animals, outdoor spaces, urban and residential life, and experience of life within the community.”
Entries are accepted through Monday, March 8. The grand prize is $500. For information, go to saaca.org.
Zavis offering
sales training
for free each
Friday, 10:30
Chamber member Don Zavis Sales Training is offering complimentary help every Friday from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Catalyst, 4500 N. Oracle, Suite 110 within the Tucson Mall.
“Don’t kid yourself, you will need to ‘sell yourself back from the coronavirus, and we can help,” Zavis said in an invitation. “Make a commitment to join us and ‘sell’ yourself back into profitability.”
Zavis’ program is also available via Zoom.
To register, call 248-497-5869, or email Don here.
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ShopOVAZ.com
Have you visited ShopOVAZ.com, our growing compilation of Oro Valley businesses? Check it out. You’ll find direct access to more than 310 – and growing – Oro Valley businesses.
To get your business on the site, please email information to Anstar Productions or click on the “Get Listed” button at the upper right of the menu on the website.
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Director of Business Development
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Our Board
of Directors
Chair
Nancy Boyle
Splendido at Rancho Vistoso
Vice Chair
Anne-Marie Braswell
Golder Ranch Fire District
Secretary / Clerk
Dinny Cosyns
NorthStar Strategies
Treasurer
Eric Renaud
Pima Federal Credit Union
Members
Veronica Apodaca
Northwest Healthcare
Ron Arenas
Picture Rocks Cooling,
Heating and Plumbing
Michelle Armstrong
Tohono Chul Park
Jeff Artzi
OOROO Auto
Lisa Bayless
Long Realty
Lila Chapman
Sierra Tucson
Mark Davis
Canyon Community Bank
Cindy Webb Hanson
OneAZ Credit Union
Tom Hebner
Roche Tissue Diagnostics
Robert Ramirez
Robert Ramirez CPA
Otton Suarez
El Conquistador Tucson,
A Hilton Resort
Jack Talmage
Oro Valley Country Club
Jeremy Thompson
Cox
Ex-officio
Margie Adler
Town of Oro Valley
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Thanks to our
corporate
members
Platinum
The Arizona Daily Star / Tucson.com
Gold
Acacia IT
El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort
Diamond
Roche Tissue Diagnostics
Pima Federal Credit Union
Silver
Hughes Federal Credit Union
Sierra Tucson
Tucson Local Media
Northwest Healthcare
Copper
Vantage West Credit Union
Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment
State Farm / Wendy Wise
OneAZ Credit Union
Pima Community College
Bayer
The Tucson Roadrunners
Casa de la Luz
Splendido at Rancho Vistoso
Golder Ranch Fire District
Tucson Federal Credit Union
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Our first event of 2021 is a virtual look at what's happening in the Greater Oro Valley economy. We'll talk to informed people about housing, infrastructure, jobs, and what's ahead. You'll want to be there; check back here for more information.
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Revised request asks for 1-level casitas on
site near Tangerine
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This Wednesday, Feb. 3, the Oro Valley Town Council reconsiders a request from Chamber member Kai Enterprises to develop a piece of property just south of Tangerine Road, near the Safeway shopping center.
After Kai Enterprises’ request to build 2-story apartments on the 13.44-acre parcel was defeated in January, the applicant has amended its proposal.
Now, the business is asking to build some 160 1-story rental casitas on the ground, known officially as Silverhawke Block 5. It is a previously scraped parcel south of Tangerine, and behind a hill directly across from the new ingress and egress from the Safeway shopping center.
“Casitas are an increasingly popular housing alternative that enjoys very strong demand, especially from young professionals,” writes Paul Oland of Paradigm Land Design, representing Kai Enterprises. “Just as important as providing another quality housing option, casita neighborhoods provide strong economic benefits to local retailers and the town.”
The request requires both general plan amendment and rezoning. Your Chamber has written and spoken in favor of the proposal throughout the process, which began some months ago.
Next week’s hearing begins at 6 p.m. Wednesday.
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to talk about vaccines
with Boreale Law
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Thursday, Feb. 18, 9 a.m.
Chamber member Mike Boreale of Boreale Law addresses the group on employer and employee rights and responsibilities regarding vaccines.
Can an employer require vaccination? Can an employee elect not to be vaccinated even if required? We'll take your questions and try to answer them.
This will be a virtual event; click here to register.
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State adds $1M to aid
eateries in creating
safe outside seating
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Another $1 million has been added to a statewide program aiming to help Arizona restaurants and dining establishments expand outdoor seating and limit the spread of COVID-19.
Gov. Doug Ducey made the announcement this week.
“Restaurants throughout the state have expanded outdoor dining to welcome more customers while limiting the spread of COVID-19,” Ducey said. “We want to make sure more of our hard-working local restaurants have the opportunity to do the same. Today’s funding will help restaurants purchase items like outdoor furniture and barriers so they can safely serve patrons. I’m grateful to the businesses across Arizona working to protect our communities and keep our economy moving forward.”
The funding announced today will be directed to pending applications submitted to the Safest Outside Restaurant Assistance Program, launched in December 2020 to support local restaurants.
The effort began with investment of $1 million on Dec. 2. Another $2 million was added Jan. 5.
Funding has been provided to nearly all eligible businesses that have been approved for an extension of premises. To be eligible, applicants must comply with all COVID-19 related Executive Orders; demonstrate a new extension of premises that has been approved by the local governing body and the Arizona Department of Liquor, if applicable; plan to extend the premises for a minimum of three months; have fewer than 50 employees; be Arizona-owned and-operated, and more.
The $1 million comes from the state’s Crisis Contingency and Safety Net Fund, a bipartisan budget agreement signed by the governor that added $50 million for Arizona’s COVID-19 response.
For more information on the Governor's grant program to help restaurants expand outdoors, click here.
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It's like winter out there
Tuesday's cool and snowy weather brushed across Oro Valley and Northwest Tucson, leaving snow and clouds on Pusch Ridge, and a measurable amount on vehicles at Chamber member Oracle Ford near Oracle. More rain was expected Friday in the region.
Photos by Dave Perry
and Martin Reichgott
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4 ways to be more
effective with email
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Four strategies to improve email productivity, from Chamber Gold member Acacia IT:
Rethink your subject line. Tell the recipient as much as possible in as few words as manageable, and make sure to let them know if any action is needed on their part;
Establish addressing rules. It’s annoying to be copied on an endless series of email replies. Establish rules with proper use of the “To” and “CC” fields;
Use caution when BCC-ing. Blind copying people on emails comes across as sneaky. Refrain from it as much as possible;
Don’t draw things out. If you can’t resolve something in 3 emails or less, it’s time to pick up the phone. Sometimes email just doesn’t work.
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St. Mark’s UMC stepping up
many fold for ICS food bank
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Chamber member St. Mark’s United Methodist Church has revved up its support for fellow Chamber member Interfaith Community Services.
In 2019, St. Mark’s donated 1,040 pounds of food to the ICS Food Bank.
“We thought that was good,” said John Yost, ICS advocate at St. Mark’s. “COVID-19 changed everything.”
Since March, even though church buildings had been closed for many months, St. Mark’s set a challenge to the congregation to raise 10,000 pounds for donation. The response has been overwhelming. As of early January, St. Mark’s has donated nearly 16,000 pounds of food.
“We love ICS and are proud to be a faith community partner since 1985,” Yost told the ICS newsletter.
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Wisdom, connections and
prizes at Thursday’s Zixer
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Thursday’s Zixer drew a crowd of 35 guests, who enjoyed a quick hour of break-out rooms, door prizes and business advice.
As examples …
If you see an email you weren’t expecting from someone you don’t know, and about which you’re suspicious, don’t open it, advised Andrew Hoffman of Rocky Point Technology Group.
In business, particularly in a pandemic, be transparent and honest, suggested Monica Smith of Visiting Angels, and Hope Noble of Catalina Springs Memory Care. “Be understanding and flexible,” added Jennica Kleman of Spa Daze. “People are going through a lot right now.”
And this, from certified health coach Debra Anne Melkun of Why Knot Now DAE:
“Follow up.” When someone contacts your business, reach back.
“It’s so important to stay engaged with your customers,” said Andrew Hoffman. “There’s no excuse for a lack of communication,” agreed Joel Krominga of Midwest Regional Bank.
Spa Daze donated a massage as a “door” prize, won by Diana Charbonneau of IMPACT of Southern Arizona.
Julie Festerling of Icon Power won a box of See’s Candies given by Elsa Jacklitch of newly renewed Silver member Hughes Federal Credit Union, who urged businesses to advertise on the Hughes website at no charge.
Lori Banzhaf of The Country Club of La Cholla won a $25 gift card to Jerry Bob’s donated by Nancy Boyle of Copper member Splendido at Rancho Vistoso. Nancy, your board chair, said Splendido is open for tours with masks and temperature checks. The new Villa homes, ranging in size from 1,546 to 2,711 square feet, offer great views of the Catalinas.
Lori donated a $25 gift card to La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant, a favorite of hers, won by Alan Pressel of Power Site 123. Hope Noble won a 1-month membership to The Social Circle, organized by i3Media Solutions and given by i3's Renee Deeter.
Lisa Benson of Too Busy Gals won a $25 card at Colibri Lounge within Chamber Gold member El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort.
We Zix again via Zoom at 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25. Click here to register.
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Jenisa at Oracle Family Dental, and Cindy, Breanne, Sharon at Copper member OneAZ Credit Union have made the OVsafesteps promise. |
The Town of Oro Valley has committed $1 million to assist local businesses in this moment. For information, contact Margie Adler, economic development specialist, at madler@orovalleyaz.gov, or Dave Perry, president / CEO of your Chamber, at dave@orovalleychamber.com.
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Boreale Law shares
details in next PPP
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The second round of the Paycheck Protection Program has opened, with $284 billion available to small businesses, non-profits, self-employed and independent workers to get through the pandemic.
Chamber member attorney Mike Boreale of Boreale Law writes that, “much like the first iteration of the PPP loan program, PPP loans are eligible for forgiveness if the borrower can show that they spent at least 60 percent of the funds on payroll. The remaining 40 percent of the loan may be used on other eligible costs, including mortgage expenses, rent, utility payments, personal protective equipment, other gear to protect workers; supplier costs, operations expenditures, and property damage caused by public disturbances in 2020.”
Criteria for eligibility include demonstrated loss of gross revenue of at least 25 percent, employment of fewer than 300 workers, and other considerations.
Mike can help; give him a call at 520-334-2069, or go to borealelaw.com.
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Nearly a year since a
game, Roadrunners
on the ice in February
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Nearly a year removed from a real hockey game, the Tucson Roadrunners get back on the ice in February.
The Roadrunners open the season as the “away” team with 3 games against San Jose, all played at the Tucson Arena. Those dates are Feb. 5, 6 and 8.
The official home opener is Thursday, Feb. 18, at 6:30 p.m. against Ontario. The American Hockey League regular season is slated to run through May 16.
“Thank you for supporting the Roadrunners,” the release continued. “We can’t wait to see you back at the rink!”
To download the complete schedule click here.
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Update to ACA free boot camps to help your business thrive |
The Arizona Commerce Authority continues its “boot camp” sessions next week with two new sessions. They are:
“The 10 Steps to Starting a Business in Arizona,” 9 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 2. Attend for an informative session that will break down the step-by-step process of starting a business in Arizona, featuring the experts at SBDC at Yavapai College. Learn the ins and outs of the 10 step process and what resources are available to help you get started. Click here to register.
“Cash Flow Management - Knowing Your Cash Position During COVID-19,” 9 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 4. Hear from SBDC business analysts on best practices to develop and manage your business’ cash flow. Learn what your cash position is and why it’s important to have to have a management and projection tool, especially during COVID-19. Click here to register.
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International Wildlife Museum aids teachers
The International Wildlife Museum, a very cool place on Gates Pass, is offering virtual animal presentations for use in the classroom. Education leaders should click here.
Special promotion at Lewis & Ivey Salon
For a limited time, guests at Lewis & Ivey Salon can receive 20% off their first color or 10% off their first haircut with Lauren. Call the salon at 520-447-5851, “you’ll love her!” Lewis & Ivey is located within Oro Valley Marketplace.
Refer 2 to iBalance Wellness Spa, get 1 free
For every 2 people you refer to iBalance Wellness Spa for a massage, you get a free massage of your own! Be sure to tell your friends to mention you when they book! (520) 809-6955.
E-Konomy Pools needs workers
Chamber member E-Konomy Pools is hiring renovation technicians, repair technicians and pool cleaning technicians! Apply here.
A special at Mountain View Retirement Village
Mountain View Retirement Village is offering a deal for February move-ins. New residents can earn a $500 discount on their move-in fee during the month. Call (520) 229-3350.
Spa Daze has discounts for essential workers
Healthcare workers, first responders, and active military receive 10% off on all sessions 60 minutes or longer at Chamber member Spa Daze. “You're always essential to Spa Daze,” an invitation said. Go to www.spadazetucson.com.
Spa deal for wedding parties at El Conquistador
Planning a wedding? Chamber Gold member El Conquistador Tucson, a Hilton Resort, is offering wedding groups a 20 percent discount on spa services at spawell, the new spa on the Oro Valley property. Go to https://www.hiltonelconquistador.com/weddings to learn more.
ICS seeks Empty Bowls contributions
Interfaith Community Services presents its 10th annual Empty Bowls fund-raiser on Friday and Saturday, March 5-6. During the pandemic, Empty Bowls is a drive-through bowl pickup event.
ICS is inviting craftspeople to donate their beautiful crafts for an online auction, and requests gift certificates from favorite restaurants, stores or other business for the raffle. Please contact Celena Robles for more details at crobles@icstucson.org or 520-526-9304. See more on their website.
JTED has all kinds of opportunities
What are you waiting for? Chamber member Pima JTED can show you opportunities you never thought were possible. Do what you love for a career and get a head start in high school! Enrollment for the upcoming school year is open. “Don't sleep on your future!” Click here for more information.
Jazz vocalist Taylor at The Views Jan. 30
The Views Restaurant welcomes jazz vocalist Rene Taylor, performing live at the Sun City restaurant this Saturday, Jan. 30. Reserve your table today by clicking here
There is a $20 cover charge for a table of 4. You will register yourself and may bring up to 3 other guests.
Madaras Gallery has a sale on its framed artwork
Chamber member Madaras Gallery is offering a 15 percent discount on framed canvases hanging in its gallery in January.
Call 520-615-3001 to purchase. One of each is available. There are more than 200 paintings to choose among.
Plenty more is happening at the Madaras Gallery, located at 3035 N. Swan in Tucson. Go to madaras.com.
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Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce
p: 520.297.2191
7435 N. Oracle Road, #107, Oro Valley, AZ 85704
Our Mission
Maximizing Greater Oro Valley's unmatched assets.
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