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Greg Durnan and Acacia IT will show us how to protect nonprofits from cyber attacks. A special gathering of nonprofits dedicated to mutual support and collaboration to strengthen our collective ability to serve our communities.
| | It's the home stretch for 'Locals Eat Local' effort | | |
------More than 70 people have won prizes – and spent not less than $14,060 at Oro Valley restaurants – as your Chamber’s 2025 Locals Eat Local campaign enters its final weeks.
------Crystal Franke, destination marketing manager for the town of Oro Valley, said 72 prize-winners (some for a second time) have been recorded through the town’s exploreov app.
------There have been 703 “check-ins” through the app. Each check-in represents a restaurant purchase of not less than $20.
------If you visit 5 restaurants and spend $20 at each, you’ll earn a special prize from the Chamber – an Oro Valley hat and cloth shopping bag. Download the exploreov app to sign up, create your account, and go eat. Stop by the Chamber to select your prize.
------Local restaurants taking part in the Locals Eat Local promotion are The Views Restaurant, La Hacienda, Cheers to You! Nutrition, Rosati’s Pizza, Peachwave Frozen Yogurt, Fork & Fire Smokehouse, Savaya Coffee, OV Pizza & Pints, Just Kabab, Breadsmith, Noble Hops, Nautical Bowls, Panera Bread, DiBella’s Brunch & Booze, Oranju, Wow Wow Lemonade, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Handel’s Ice Cream, Tucson Tamale Company, and Tohono Chul Garden Bistro.
| | OV buying building for new police HQ | | |
------The Oro Valley Police Department is getting a long-needed, new headquarters building.
------At its meeting Wednesday, an exuberant Oro Valley Town Council voted 7-0 for a resolution to purchase a 50,500-square-foot, unoccupied building on 6 acres of land at 13101 N. Oracle Road.
------The building, which over the years has housed an urgent care, physical therapy services and medical offices, is located on the west side of Oracle just north of the Rancho Vistoso Center and its tenants, among them Chamber member The Gaslight Music Hall.
------Oro Valley is paying $3.8 million for the building. It anticipates up to $14 million, initially, in needed repairs and renovations. That work can be accomplished over a period of years; Oro Valley expects this new OVPD headquarters to serve the community for decades.
------“On first blush, and going through this, we’re very excited,” Chief Kara Riley told the town council. “Certainly this is a need of the agency we’ve had over the years.”
------The new building is more than three times larger than OVPD headquarters at 10000 N. La Canada. Initial plans call for using 31,765 square feet of the new space.
------Northwest Hospital LLC, owns the land. FTB OB Holdings LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, owns the building, which was constructed in 2001.
------Oro Valley planned to make a $100,000 down payment Aug. 15. Final closing is expected in September. Initial repair and maintenance work is planned during the fiscal year that ends June 30.
| | 2 more August concerts in OV's summer series | | |
------Two more free August concerts are scheduled for the Oro Valley Summer Concert Series, presented by the Town of Oro Valley and the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance.
------Tesoro performs flamenco music this Tuesday, Aug. 19, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Saffron Indian Bistro, 7607 N. Oracle in the Oracle Crossings development.
------“Tesoro is one of Arizona’s most dynamic and captivating live acts, blending the fiery passion of rumba flamenco with the infectious energy of rock, funk, and jazz,” an invitation said.
------Then, on Saturday, Aug. 30, the Desert Museum Family Band brings its unique form of “edutainment” to the National Parks Store, 12880 N. Vistoso Village Drive, within Western National Parks. That show runs from 10 a.m. to noon.
------“The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum teams up with local musicians for a dynamic nature-themed jam!” the invite said. “Come on a musical journey as we celebrate what makes our Sonoran Desert home such a special place.”
------Education specialist Michelle Constanza Miner and talented musicians put on the show.
| | OV okays restaurant liquor license for pizza business | | |
------A restaurant liquor license has been approved for Ciao Down Pizza, a new Oro Valley business located in the Rooney Ranch shopping center south of First Avenue.
------On Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council approved the license for Ciao Down. It’s located in the former Which Wich Sandwich location at 10565 N. Oracle, Suite 111, next door to First Watch.
------This is a second Greater Tucson location for Ciao Down. It opened Aug. 5.
| | Speakers set for SPARK Business Summit Aug. 28 | | |
------Four outstanding speakers are lined up for the 2025 SPARK Business Summit, presented by your Chamber and the Better Business Bureau Serving Southern Arizona on Thursday, Aug. 28, at Platinum member El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort.
------Tickets for the day-long event are on sale now; they’re $60 before Aug. 8, $75 afterward. Go to orovalleychamber.com.
------The workshops, a networking lunch, a business expo, and a mixer with both Chamber and BBB members fill the day, with the business expo beginning at 8:30 a.m. This year’s points of emphasis are the multigenerational workforce, social media marketing, AI applications, and business resiliency.
------Silver member Pima Community College is the presenting sponsor.
------Dr. Josie Milliken will lead the workshop "Leading AI with Vision and Purpose in Southern Arizona.” Dr. Milliken, dean of distance education at PCC, intends to demystify AI, explore its benefits and challenges, and help you craft “a foundational plan to lead your organization's AI initiatives.”
------Dr. Linda Hollis is talking about “The Benefits of a Multigenerational Workforce.” Dr. Hollis is a gerontologist and assistant professor of practice in the psychology department at Gold member the University of Arizona. Her passion lies in preparing the next generation of professionals to advance services and advocate for older adults.
------Payton Wells offers up “Marketing with Heart: Cultivating a Local Community.” Payton is the marketing director for Chamber member Heart & Soul Kids, the local gymnastics and dance studio that began in Oro Valley, and won your Chamber’s Midsize Business Award in 2023. She is a “marketing Jill-of-all-trades.”
------Sue Oliver, director of innovation and the Small Business Development Center at Pima Community College, will present “Future-Proof your Business: A Resiliency Game Plan for Growth.” You’ll learn how to use a “resiliency mindset,” practical tools, and a clear roadmap to strengthen your operations, focus your priorities, and lead with confidence through change.
------Don’t miss it! Click here to purchase sponsorships and tickets now..
| | Items for 110 Vet School Bags needed by Aug. 22 | | |
------For the fifth year, your Chamber is assembling welcome bags for the new class of 110 students at the University of Arizona School of Veterinary Medicine in Oro Valley.
------Your donations – pens, pads, gift cards, stress relievers, free coffee and beverage coupons, coffee cups, drinking vessels, sun screen, anything that helps a stressed-out student while boosting your business – are welcome.
------Items are needed at the Chamber office by the close of business Friday, Aug. 22. Your Chamber is located at 1822 E. Innovation Park Drive in Oro Valley’s Innovation Park.
------Last year’s donors were Golder Ranch Fire District, BFT Fitness, WaFd Bank, Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade, the Oro Valley Police Department, the Town of Oro Valley, Dream Dinners, Rescue Me Tucson, Vector
Impressions, United Way of Tucson, artist Joe Bourne, Biz Tucson and Rockridge Apartments.
------Let’s help our new students feel welcomed!
| | Upcoming Business Forum Share your input on OV’s tax and fee proposals | | |
------In response to slowing sales tax and state-shared revenues, Oro Valley is considering expanding its revenue base with three new tax categories: a use tax, telecommunications tax, and commercial rental tax. These could generate between $930,000 and $1.88 million annually.
------In addition, the town proposes raising the stormwater utility fee by $2 per month (from $4.50 to $6.50), pulling in about $650,000 or more each year.
------Parks and recreation fees are also set to increase, particularly for non-residents, for programs, facility use, and field rentals, expected to raise around $400,000 per year.
------These changes could significantly impact local businesses including retail, hospitality, and commercial tenants, and influence overall operating costs.
------Your Chamber is hosting a business feedback forum on Thursday, September 11 at 3:30 p.m. in the Sunset Room at the Oro Valley Community Center. This is an opportunity for business leaders to learn more, ask questions, and provide input on how this would affect their businesses.
------Please join us to make your voice heard and be part of the conversation. It's free and all welcome. Please register here so we have plenty of refreshments!
------Check out the following links for more information on the proposed taxes and fees:
Tucson Local Media Explorer
Town of Oro Valley
| | Free lunch and learn for nonprofits Tuesday, 8/19 | | |
------A “power-packed hour” with the “ultimate nonprofit protection team” is set for Tuesday, Aug. 19, when Chamber Gold member Acacia IT hosts a free non-profit lunch and learn in Tucson.
------The free event runs from noon to 1 Tuesday at the L Offices North, 1860 E. River, Suite 325, Tucson, 85718.
------Guests will learn “trends in cyber liability, breaches, and managing liability,” an invitation said.
------Presenters are Acacia IT CEO Greg Durnan, longtime Chamber supporter and a past board chair. Other presenters are Kalie Lindmark and Jarred Lebo of Philadelphia Insurance Companies, and Jennifer Chenault of the MarshMcLennan Agency.
------“Don’t miss this opportunity to get informed and prepared,” the invitation said.
------Registration is requested; go to acaciait.com.
| | Salsa, Tequila, Taco Challenge at El Conquistador Sat. 8/31 | | |
------The 13th annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge comes to Oro Valley on Sunday, Aug. 31, in the midst of Labor Day Weekend.
------The “high-energy celebration of Southern Arizona’s creative spirit” is presented by the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance and Platinum member El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort. El Conquistador hosts the event at 10000 N. Oracle.
------“This unforgettable evening brings together the region’s top chefs and mixologists to compete for the titles of Best Salsa, Best Tequila Cocktail, and Best Taco,” an invitation said. “But the real purpose goes far beyond the plate. It’s a movement in flavor, craft, and connection.”
------Guests will embark on a bold, flavor-filled journey, sampling inspired creations from up to 30 restaurants, while enjoying live music, lucha libre wrestling, live art installations, and exclusive chef and bartender meet-and-greets. “It’s a full-sensory experience where entertainment, culture, and creativity collide.”
------Tickets are $135 for VIP admission, and $100 for general admission. Tickets include libation and menu samplings. Raffle tickets are on sale, too, for more than $2,000 in local gift cards and gift baskets.
------Click here for tickets: https://saaca.thundertix.com/
------Entry time is 6 p.m.
| | It's U of A night Friday at Chillin' at the Chul | | |
------Chillin’ at the Chul continues on Friday and Saturday evenings through Aug. 30 at Tohono Chul Park.
------The events run from 6 to 9 p.m., and admission is free.
------Tonight is UofA night. “Show off your school spirit by wearing your favorite University of Arizona gear and Bear Down in the Gardens with fellow Wildcats!” an invitation said.
------Guests can enjoy live music, cold drinks, tasty eats, art and family-friendly fun. “Whether you're repping red and blue or just here for the vibes, relax in the cool shade of our desert oasis, where the mature trees offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat,” it said.
------Children’s Museum Oro Valley brings nature-based play to Chillin’ at the Chul on Saturday nights. That can “keep kids engaged while you unwind.”
------Tohono Chul is located at Ina and Paseo del Norte in Oro Valley. The website is tohonochul.org.
| | OVPD seeks participants for women-only car care classes | | |
------The Oro Valley Police Department is soliciting participants in the next women-only automotive care class, offered in partnership with Catalina Towing & Recovery.
------Several times each year, the class provides women with “a hands-on experience in basic automotive maintenance,” an invitation said.
------“This class helps empower participants by giving them the confidence to understand how vehicles operate, to perform light maintenance, and gives them an understanding of technical jargon that mechanics may use,” it continued.
------Participants learn the basics of engine operation and braking systems, how to change a tire, how to check and add fluids, check belts and fuses, battery maintenance, and how to change wiper blades.
------Classes are limited to 18 participants. Registration is required. “We are planning more classes this fall,” OVPD said.
------To register, email the Community Resources Unit at CRU@orovalleyaz.gov.
| | Tohono Chul seeks ideas for a large indoor mural | | |
------Tohono Chul Park is seeking “a talented artist to design and create a large indoor mural in the Pavilion,” its open-air event space.
------The park, with support from the Town of Oro Valley, is “embarking on an exciting new project to enhance its guest experience and celebrate its 40-year history,” an invitation said.
------The mural, inside the 4,744-square-foot event space, “will honor the beauty and arts of the Sonoran Desert, expand Tohono Chul’s art offerings, and create a must-see attraction for residents and visitors alike.”
------Professional artists are invited to apply, with a special encouragement for those based in southern Arizona. Email exhibits@tohonochul.org for more information. Install, with installation scheduled for Jan. 5–30, 2026.
| | Sign up now to sponsor, play in Legion golf event | | |
------For the 16th year, the American Legion Oro Valley Post 132 is hosting its charity golf tournament to support local veterans in need, and the soldiers and families of the National Guard.
------The morning event is set for Saturday, Sept. 6, at the MountainView Golf Club in SaddleBrooke. It’s a shotgun start, 4-player scramble.
------Entries are $100 per golfer, and include golf, lunch at the MountainView ballroom, raffle prizes and contest holes.
------There is a $10,000 hole-in-one prize.
------Sponsorships are on sale now. Contact Larry McNamee at 262-251-2156, or by email at ljmcnamee@gmail.com.
------The award-winning Post 132 is a longtime member of your Chamber.
| | ICS kicks off its fall food drive; goal is 40K pounds | | |
------Interfaith Community Services is kicking off its Fall Food Drive, running through October.
------It’s ICS’ largest campaign of the year.
------“We’re setting our sights high, with a goal of collecting 40,000 pounds of food to support Tucson families in need during the holiday season,” said Ellie Killian, ICS community outreach coordinator.
------Public generosity “can help ensure that every family we serve has a full table and a warm meal to share this holiday season,” Killian said.
------Shelf-stable essentials and festive favorites such as peanut butter, canned meats, stuffing mix and cranberry sauce are most welcome. “Every can, box, and bag you donate brings us closer to our goal and closer to a community where no one goes hungry this season,” she said.
------Food insecurity is on the rise. Each day, the ICS food banks serve between 150 and 200 families. “Every month, we welcome 200 to 300 new households seeking help,” she said. “That’s nearly 7,000 pounds of food distributed every single day, a lifeline for those facing hunger.”
------Businesses, schools, churches and community groups can amplify their giving by becoming a fall food drive partner. To get started, reach out Ellie Killian at ekillian@icstucson.org, 520-505-2375, or visit icstucson.org.
------“Let’s make this season one of giving, gratitude, and community,” she concluded.
| | Nightfall returns to Old Tucson for its 33rd year | | |
------Nightfall returns this fall with an all-new sinister line-up of fear inducing haunted houses, scare zones, and experiences.
------Brave six new haunted mazes and sadistic scare zones, six new Halloween themed live shows, an exclusive Seance, an all-new Mission Madness Light Show, and a daily Booville Bash experience. Through these attractions, shows, and more, guests will have the opportunity to experience an immersive event like no other.
------In addition to the halloween focused fun, guests will be able to experience 7 rides and attractions, including the return of a guest favorite, The Antique Autos. Included with admission, guests will also be able to experience a new Halloween focused train ride, a family fun adventure on the new Pony Express, and classic attractions like The Carousel and The Old Tucson Petting Zoo.
------Online General Admission Tickets start at $29 for Adults and Children (5-12) on Thursdays. Peak days are Friday through Sunday and pricing starts at $44 for Adults (13+) and $34 for Children (5-12). Children four and under are free on all dates. Parking is Free!
------For the best price of the season, purchase tickets in advance online. Tickets at the gate are subject to availability. Tickets are on sale now at www.oldtucson.com.
------Nightfall will be open on select days Oct. 2 - Nov. 1, Thursdays through Sundays. The hours are newly extended to 4:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
| | Introductory offer at Fred Astaire Dance Studios OV | | |
------Chamber member Fred Astaire Dance Studios has a $59 introductory offer.
------The studio, located at 7315 N. Oracle, Suite 200, Ina and Oracle in Oro Valley, asks guests to pay $59 for 2 40-minute private lessons and 1 group class or practice party.
------The offer is for new students only. No partner is required.
------“From wedding dance instruction, a new hobby or way to connect with your partner, improving your social life, physical and emotional health, or taking your dance skills to the next level, dancing with Fred Astaire Dance Studios will result in faster learning, higher levels of achievement — and lots of smiles,” an invitation said.
------Email Orovalley@fredastaire.com, call 520-849-6800, or go to fredastaire.com/orovalley.
| | Please join us to celebrate the opening of this new Oro Valley business! | | | | |
SPARK Business Summit
$60 early bird tickets before August 8th, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort
10000 N Oracle Rd
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We're thrilled to announce that your Chamber is joining forces with the Better Business Bureau Serving Southern Arizona for this year's SPARK Business Summit! By combining our talents and networks, we're creating an all-day event that delivers even more value to our business community.
Join us on Thursday, August 28 for 4 breakout workshops, a networking lunch, a business expo, and a mixer with both OV Chamber and BBB members.
All of this for only $75!
Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. with access to the expo.
Sessions will begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 4 p.m. followed by the mixer from 4-6 p.m. Guests will have the opportunity to visit the business expo both before workshops begin, and during the networking lunch.
| | Enjoy these ads. Click on them for more! | | To secure your free booth at this event, contact Ofc. Manny Guerrero, special events coordinator with the Oro Valley Police Department. | | Interested in High-Level Membership? Email Leah for more information! | | |
Executive Committee
Chair: Ron Arenas, Picture Rocks Cooling, Heating & Plumbing
Vice Chair: Susan Swan, Swan Pilates
Secretary: Zoe Burcham, Kinghorn Law | Financial
Treasurer: Mary Schulz, Schulz Financial Group
Board Members
Bruce Barnett, Pima Federal Credit Union
Cody Barnhart, Oro Valley Hospital
Lisa Bayless, The Lisa Bayless Team at Long Realty
Lydia Camarillo, Golder Ranch Fire District
Shelby Francom, El Conquistador Tucson A Hilton Resort
Renee McCuistion, America First Credit Union
Maria Parham, Splendido at Rancho Vistoso
Don Pearson, Roche Tissue Diagnostics
James Piper, Piper Family Painting
Rick Price, The Views Golf
Emma Reyes, Republic Services
Brian Stewart, Pima Community College
Ex-Officio: Paul Melcher, Town of Oro Valley
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President & CEO
Kristen Sharp
Business Development Director
Leah Bahan
Events and Communications Director
Makenna Markley
Member Engagement Director
Joni Bates
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