Please join us for a ribbon cutting to celebrate the expansion of the BMO Bank Oro Valley location. There will be an open house from 10-4 with the ribbon at the beginning of the day to kick-off the festivities. We'll see you there! | | |
Join us on the last Friday of each month for a relaxed and engaging get-together with fellow members of the Home Experts Collaborative. This informal event is designed to foster connections, share insights, and build lasting relationships in a comfortable, family friendly setting. Members are encouraged to bring guests, including spouses and children. Attendees are responsible for their own food and drinks, so feel free to order what suits your taste!
| | RTA ballots must be signed, mailed by 3/3 | |
------Ballots for RTA Next, the 20-year, $2.67 billion transportation improvement proposal, must be in the mail by Tuesday, March 3, to be counted ahead by Election Day on Tuesday, March 10.
------Pima County voters are being asked to vote on 2 measures – Proposition 418, the plan itself; and Proposition 419, extension of the half-cent sales tax to fund transportation improvements.
------This is an all-mail election. The last day to request an early ballot is Friday, Feb. 27.
------A voter’s signature is required for the vote to be counted. The signature and date line are on the back of the yellow return envelopes.
------Besides the U.S. Postal Service, ballots can be dropped off at the Pima County Recorder’s office, 240 N. Stone; the Country Club office, 6550 S. Country Club; or the city of Tucson Ward 2 office, 7820 E. Broadway.
------Your Chamber has recommended “yes” votes on both propositions. To read Chamber president / CEO Kristen Sharp’s take on RTA Next, click here:
------To learn more, go to rtanext.com.
| | AZ Tech Week 2026 comes to Oro Valley | |
------Optics Valley is joining Arizona Tech Week 2026 with Innovators Unleashed, a pitch competition designed to build stronger founders and spotlight Southern Arizona’s growing tech ecosystem.
Innovators Unleashed focuses on helping founders sharpen their story, pressure test assumptions, strengthen investor pitch decks, and build the skills needed to attract partners, talent, and capital. Participants will pitch to experienced venture capital and angel investors while gaining exposure during AZ Tech Week.
------The competition is open to Arizona headquartered tech startups across three stages: Idea to Validation, Launch, and Growth. Applicants must have less than $1.5 million in 2025 sales and less than $1.5 million raised in funding. Approximately 60 startups are expected to compete in the semifinal round on March 27, with the top five advancing to the Final Pitch Competition on April 8. An additional 15 teams will participate in Demo Day.
------Applications open February 3, 2026 and close March 4, 2026.
------Learn more and apply here.
| | Wicked Fast runners in OV this Saturday | |
------Runners in the Wicked Fast Marathon and Half-Marathon are descending through Oro Valley this Saturday, Feb. 21.
------Drivers may experience minor delays and increased traffic control on a portion of North Oracle Road, according to a release from the town of Oro Valley.
------The event begins at Biosphere 2 about 6:30 a.m. Participants come south along Oracle through Catalina and Oro Valley, where they’ll go west on the Chuck Huckelberry Loop.
------Race participants are using the shoulder of northbound Oracle Road during the event. Motorists traveling north in the area should use caution, stay alert for runners and volunteers, and avoid driving on the shoulder, the town of Oro Valley said in a release.
------Traffic control measures are being taken at Oracle Road and Innovation Market Drive, also called Water Harvest Way, near the entrances to the Oro Valley Marketplace and Catalina State Park. Drivers should anticipate delays at that intersection and follow posted signs and directions from police officers.
| | Sunday's OV circuit bike race centered at Naranja | |
------The Tucson Bicycle Classic returns for the Oro Valley Circuit Race this Sunday, Feb. 22.
------The event, with an expected field of 600 cyclists, is centered at Naranja Park. It runs from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free spectator viewing, food trucks, and a finish-line beer garden for all.
------Cyclists race on a fast, 2.8-mile loop beginning and ending at the park. They’ll pedal on Musette Drive, Tangerine Road, Monterra Vista Drive and Naranja Drive. Some road closures and detours are planned.
------“Based on prior-year estimates, the event is anticipated to drive more than $180,000 in regional visitor spending across lodging, restaurants, and retail,” the town of Oro Valley said in a release.
------“Since the Oro Valley Circuit is the fourth and final day of racing, the competition will be fierce,” said Crystal Franke, Oro Valley's destination marketing manager. “It's a great way for people of all ages to experience the excitement of professional cycling right here in our community.”
------There is a running and walking 5K Sunday morning, using the same course. Check-in begins at 6:30 a.m., the 5K starts at 7:15 a.m., and participants must be off the course by 8:30 a.m. so bike racing can begin.
------Spectators can park and watch for free at the Oro Valley Public Library, Oro Valley Town Hall, and Copper Creek Elementary School. The start and finish line in Naranja Park is also an excellent viewing location.
| | Tucson Bridal Expo this Sunday at the TCC | |
------The Tucson Bridal Expo fills the Tucson Convention Center this Sunday, Feb. 22.
------It’s “a full day of pampering” for brides-to-be, their families and friends, with more than 75 exhibitors in one place. The annual event is hosted by Chamber Platinum member Tucson Media Partners, publisher of the Arizona Daily Star, tucson.com, and related media.
------The show opens at 10:30 a.m., and runs until 3:30 p.m. It is a free event, though tickets are required. Click here.
------There are two fashion shows, entertainment, and more.
------The Tucson Bridal Expo is billed as “one-stop planning” for brides, with exclusive deals, the ability to meet with multiple vendors in one place, inspiration, trends, personalized advice, tastings and demos.
------“This is the perfect opportunity to turn your wedding dreams into reality with the best local vendors ready to help!” the invitation said.
| | Tohono Chul's public mural reveal Feb. 28 | |
------A public unveiling of Ignacio Garcia’s mural Twilight Sonoran is planned for Saturday, Feb. 28, at Chamber Silver member Tohono Chul Park.
------The 1,200-square-foot mural, painted in blue, black and white on the long wall of Tohono Chul’s Garden Pavilion, captures a serene night on the Sonoran Desert. It is an eye-level creation drawing rave reviews, and is now Tohono Chul’s largest public art installation.
------Guests can enjoy live art demonstrations, hands-on painting activities, live music, food and fun for all ages. Garcia will be there to speak with guests.
------“I Heart Art” is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. that Saturday. Members can come for free. Admission is $5 for the general public.
------Go to tohonochul.org for more information.
| | Hopi katsinam show at OV store this Saturday | |
------The Hopi katsinam trunk show is open this Saturday, Feb. 21, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the National Parks Store, located in Oro Valley’s Innovation Park.
------Guests can browse and purchase from a selection of Hopi katsinam presented by the Kachina House of Sedona. There are talks about the history of this cultural tradition at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
------Katsina dolls, carved representations of Hopi deities, are handcrafted according to spiritual and cultural traditions passed down for generations, an invitation said.
------The National Parks Store is located at 12880 N. Vistoso Village Drive, Oro Valley, 85755. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The phone is 520-622-6014, the website wnp.org/the-national-parks-store.
| | Clay artists show this weekend at Tohono Chul | |
------The Southern Arizona Clay Artists present their semi-annual show and sale at Tohono Chul Park this Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 21-22.
------It’s free to attend the ceramics show and sale, open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at the Oro Valley desert garden and gallery space.
------More than 25 ceramic artists from the SACA are offering gallery-quality decorative and handcrafted ceramics, an invitation said.
------“Whether you’re searching for a beautiful vase for everyday use or a striking art piece to become the centerpiece of your home décor, the SACA Ceramics Sale has something for everyone and every budget,” it continued.
------Go to tohonochul.org.
| | FC Tucson 2026 season schedule announced | |
------Chamber Copper member FC Tucson's 2026 season schedule was just announced last week!
------They’re happy to announce that Chamber members will receive a 10% discount code as well. Interested members can use code FCTM26 at checkout (enter the code before selecting seats) to claim the offer.
------Don't miss out on a great season! Click here to secure your tickets today.
| | Money Matters, Start the Year on the Right Foot | |
------“Start the Year on the Right Foot” is a free online Lunch and Learn designed to help participants pause, reflect, and get financially organized for the year ahead. Hosted by chamber member Marie Gooch, CFP, of MarGo Financial, this interactive workshop walks attendees through a comprehensive planning checklist covering goals, cash flow, upcoming life changes, and other key financial considerations—so nothing important slips through the cracks. Participants will leave with greater clarity about what needs attention now, what can wait, and a personalized checklist they can use as a roadmap for the rest of the year. The session will be held February 23 from 12-1 p.m. via Zoom. Click here to register.
| | OVPD hosting free women's self defense class | |
------The Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) System teaches practical self-defense tactics and techniques designed to help you escape an attacker. Be empowered to make a plan of action to defend yourself no matter physical condition or age. This course is instructed by the Oro Valley Police Department.
------Class consists of two Thursday classes held on March 5 & March 12. They will run from 5-9 p.m. Both classes must be attended to earn a certificate.
------Email, call the number, or click here to register for this class.
| | Overlook has 3 special events Friday evenings | |
------Special events are coming to The Overlook Restaurant, located within the Oro Valley Community and Recreation Center on La Canada.
A Tuscan Pasta Dinner is being served Friday, Feb. 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. It features a custom pasta action station, and salad bar.
------Reservations are recommended. Email Zach Olfers at zolfers@elcongolf.com, or call 520-229-5355.
The local band Garrett James and the Wanderers is performing oldies and blues / rock classics on Friday, March 6. The show runs from 5 to 7 p.m. Guests can enjoy music, food and drinks. All are welcome; no reservations needed.
------And The Overlook presents “Hooked: Feast and Fins Fish Fry” on Friday, March 13, from 5 to 7 p.m. Again, reservations are recommended.
The Overlook opens at 10 a.m. daily. It serves lunch, post-golf beverages and special events. To learn more, click here.
| | House Bill 4032 and Early Childhood Funding in Arizona | |
------Chamber member First Things First is sharing information and seeking support for House Bill 4032 (HB4032), a bill related to how early childhood programs are funded in Arizona.
------HB4032 proposes modernizing existing tobacco tax structures by applying an excise tax to alternative nicotine and vapor products, similar to traditional tobacco taxes. Tobacco-related taxes are currently a primary funding source for early childhood programs in Arizona.
------The bill is intended to provide more stable, long-term funding for early childhood services, including early learning programs and access to child care. These programs support young children during critical developmental years and help working families by expanding access to child care options.
------Contact First Things First Senior Director of Government Affairs Joe Barba at jbarba@FirstThingsFirst.org for more information.
| | Off the Vine Wine Festival returns to Oro Valley | |
------The 11th Annual Off the Vine Wine Festival is back in Oro Valley this year and will be held at James D. Kriegh Park on Saturday, February 21. The festival brings together Arizona’s premier wineries, local food vendors, and live music for a full day celebrating the state’s vibrant wine culture.
------This signature Oro Valley event offers a curated tasting experience, opportunities to meet vineyard owners and winemakers, and a relaxed winter afternoon in one of our most scenic park settings. Sip, savor, and discover why Arizona wine continues to earn national recognition.
------Buy tickets here.
| | Workman Insurance selling its office | |
------Long time Chamber member, Workman Insurance and Investments want to sell their office. The one-story Josler architecturally designed building is located at 6812 North Oracle Road, #120 in the Casas Adobes Office Park. It has 1044 square feet, high ceilings, and a restroom. Parking is accessible in front of the office.
------Management maintains all landscaping, outside lighting, and parking areas. There is daily mail service and weekly trash pick-up.
------The owners gladly accept referrals if you know someone interested!
------For more details, contact Bob Workman at (520)531-1300 or email him at bob@workmaninsurance.com.
| | Volunteers needed for upcoming 'Empty Bowls' | |
------Up to 50 volunteer slots remain for Empty Bowls, the annual Interfaith Community Services fundraiser on Saturday, March 7, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, 1288 West River.
------At Empty Bowls, guests enjoy delicious, donated soups served in handcrafted pottery bowls they get to keep. It’s ICS’ singular fundraiser of the year.
------Volunteers are “essential” to Empty Bowls, said Alexis Wilson, senior coordinator of outreach and volunteer engagement for ICS. They help with setup, guest check-in, food service, auctions, and cleanup.
------“Guests enjoy soups, desserts, and take-home handcrafted pottery bowls, but the real magic comes from volunteers creating a welcoming, meaningful experience,” she added. “Every hour you give helps support ICS food banks and programs, moving families from crisis to stability. Join us for a fun, meaningful, and community-filled day.”
------Volunteer shifts are available in time slots before, during, and after the event. To volunteer, click here.
------Donated soups, breads, and desserts, and a lively silent auction and raffle, complete the day.
------To buy tickets, at $40 each, click here.
| | Kuwait liberation event Feb. 28 at OV memorial | |
------The Arizona Heroes Memorial is hosting a special event on Saturday, Feb. 28, to commemorate Kuwait Liberation Day.
------The ceremony begins at 1 p.m. It’s being hosted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12222 Oro Valley.
------This event “honors the courage and sacrifices made during the liberation of Kuwait, a small but strategically important country in the Middle East,” an invitation said.
------Since 1991, the United States has maintained “a strong partnership with Kuwait, evolving from military liberation to ongoing cooperation in regional security,” it continued. “This event is a chance to honor those who fought for freedom and reflect on the enduring values of liberty and alliance.”
------The Arizona Heroes Memorial is located in Oro Valley’s Naranja Park. To learn more, go to https://azheroesmemorial.org/. To learn more about the VFW Post, click here.
| | GRFD hosting community survey | |
------ Golder Ranch Fire District values every connection. If you've had an experience with them, they want to hear from you.
------Please take their community survey and share your feedback. Click here for the survey.
| | Celebrate Arizona's statehood with OVHS | |
------Enjoy the NEW Oro Valley Historical Society exhibit - Arizona’s Semiquincentennial AND Arizona Statehood on Saturday, February 21 from 9 a.m. to noon in the Pusch House Museum at historic Steam Pump Ranch. After the U.S. won its independence, see how manifest destiny led to the founding of our state on Valentine’s Day, 1912. Volunteers will be on site to answer questions and provide additional information. Tours of the Museum are complimentary, and donations are gratefully accepted.
------Also on site, will be charities requesting your help. Gap Ministries returns with their request for resealable plastic bags, canned vegetables, and dishwashing soap for their kitchens. In addition, Habitat for Humanity would like to help you “spring clean” with your donations of unwanted furniture, working appliances, building materials, home goods, and home improvement items.
------Join the Oro Valley Historical Society to learn about our country, our state, and provide some assistance to those who need it. See you at the Ranch – history loves company!
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Join local retailers, law enforcement, and prosecutors to learn how we're tackling organized retail theft in oro Valley. Hear real success stories, get updates on trends, learn what to expect when reporting incidents, and discover helpful resources and upcoming trainings.
| | Please join us to celebrate Urban Wellness Center! We'll cut a ribbon and then enjoy the open house. See you there! | | |
Join us for an 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!
| | Please join us to celebrate the opening of Bloom Tea in the Oro Valley Marketplace! We'll cut a ribbon and support this new Oro Valley business. | | Please join us for an open house to celebrate Visiting Angels Tucson's new office location. They're opening their doors to celebrate this new development with the OV Chamber community. Please join us! | | |
This month we meet at the "garage" offices of the Parks and Recreation Department of Oro Valley on Steam Pump Ranch at 9am. The topic of discussion will be Donor Cultivation. Bring your ideas and questions for the group!
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The OV Chamber is joining forces with TENWEST and networking organizations across Southern Arizona for a Mega Mixer. This is a chance to interact with new faces while still having the comfort of seeing some folks that you already know.
Use the code OVCMember when registering or register using this link to reserve your space.
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Start your morning with connection and community impact at the Oro Valley Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Breakfast on Thursday, March 26th!
Join fellow business leaders, community partners, and local changemakers as we reflect on the past year’s accomplishments and honor those who make Oro Valley thrive. This signature event is one of the Chamber’s most anticipated gatherings, and you won’t want to miss it.
The nonprofit fair opens at 7:30 a.m. where you can meet and support incredible local nonprofits making a difference in our community.
A delicious breakfast buffet available until 9:00 a.m. Be sure to arrive early to allow time for parking, networking, visiting the nonprofit fair, and enjoying breakfast before the program begins.
Space is limited, secure your seat today! Early bird ticket pricing ends Monday, March 9th. Ticket sales close Monday, March 23rd.
Expo booths and sponsorships are still available! Purchase online or email Makenna for more information.
| | Enjoy these ads. Click on them for more! | | Interested in High-Level Membership? Email Leah for more information! | | |
Executive Committee
Chair: Susan Swan, Swan Pilates
Vice Chair: Zoe Burcham, Kinghorn Law | Financial
Secretary: Mary Schulz, Schulz Financial Group
Treasurer: Bruce Barnett, Pima Federal Credit Union
Board Members
Cody Barnhart, Oro Valley Hospital
Lisa Bayless, The Lisa Bayless Team at Long Realty
Lydia Camarillo, Golder Ranch Fire District
Casey Carrillo, University of Arizona Center for Innovation
Shelby Francom, El Conquistador Tucson A Hilton Resort
Renee McCuistion, America First Credit Union
Lee-Anne Palin, Southwest Solutions
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
Member & Operations Coordinator
Shelley Fitzgerald
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