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A special gathering of nonprofits dedicated to mutual support and collaboration to strengthen our collective ability to serve our communities.
This meeting will provide a valuable opportunity to:
- Share insights about your organization’s mission and programs
- Share challenges
- Learn about each other’s work
- Network with other nonprofits to foster partnerships
- Discover ways to complement and enhance services
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Alyssa Lopez, a 2020 Canyon del Oro High School graduate now pursuing a doctorate of physical therapy at Northern Arizona University, was one of a dozen scholarship recipients who attended your Chamber Foundation’s 2025 Mayor Steve Engle Memorial Scholarship Breakfast at El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort. She posed with Dave Perry, chair of the Chamber Foundation board; Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield; and Amphitheater Public Schools Superintendent Todd Jaeger, JD.
Photo by Chris Grey / Christopher Grey Fine Art
| Foundation salutes '25 scholarship recipients | | |
------Your Oro Valley Chamber Foundation celebrated the achievements of scholarship recipients and their families Thursday, when it hosted the 2025 Mayor Steve Engle Memorial Scholarship Breakfast at Platinum member El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort.
------For the second straight year, the Foundation has presented 20 scholarships, each valued at $1,500, to deserving students. Among the recipients, 12 were able to attend the breakfast.
------Ironwood Ridge High School graduates Alexa Moreno, Damon Coyne, Grace Ponzo and Ilisa Cohen shared their stories, and had their pictures taken by photographer Chris Grey with Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield and Amphitheater Public Schools Superintendent Todd Jaeger.
------Canyon del Oro High School graduates Alyssa Lopez, Emma Connell and Leeah Payne did the same.
------Flowing Wells High School graduates Bryan Rodriguez and Jayden Rios thanked their school counselors, Stacey Grijalva and Amy Pierson, who were in the audience.
------Two BASIS Oro Valley graduates, Polina Varyvoda and Suhaani Sohdi, were guests, along with Olivia Johnson of Catalina Foothills High School.
------Nichole Murphy gave each student a certificate of recognition from U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani. Oro Valley Town Councilmember Dr. Harry “Mo” Greene II, was in attendance.
------Nancy Boyle, a Foundation board member and representative of Chamber Silver member Splendido at Rancho Vistoso, spoke to the audience. Splendido was a breakfast sponsor, along with Chamber Diamond member Hughes Federal Credit Union, and Splendido also sponsored a scholarship this year.
------Don Pearson, a Chamber board member and representative of scholarship sponsor and Chamber Diamond member Roche Tissue Diagnostics, shared his story with the audience. Both Pearson and Boyle talked about professional opportunities at their businesses.
------The breakfast attracted 90 guests.
| | Locals Eat Local gaining digital views, and diners | | |
------Locals Eat Local is catching on.
------Your Chamber’s summer campaign to encourage local dining asks participants to register with the town of Oro Valley’s destination marketing app, Explore OV.
------Since the launch of Locals Eat Local, “we've had 909 people view the campaign on the Explore OV app,” according to Crystal Franke, destination marketing manager for the town.
------“While that number doesn’t reflect completed challenges or spending levels, it does demonstrate a strong level of engagement and interest from the community,” Franke said. “People are exploring the participating restaurants, reading the rules, and many are beginning or actively working toward completing the challenge.”
------People who register, and spend $20 or more at 5 of the 20 participating restaurants, are eligible for grand prizes – very cool Arizona cutting boards, and Oro Valley hats and cloth shopping bags.
------As of June 13, 14 people have completed the challenge, and many others are close, Franke said. That's at least $1,400 spent in local restaurants in the past 13 days.
------“Anecdotally, we've heard from several participating businesses that diners are mentioning the challenge while dining, and we’ve seen an uptick in app activity tied directly to the promotion,” she said. “The response suggests the program is successfully driving attention to our local dining scene and encouraging residents to support Oro Valley restaurants.”
------To learn more about Locals Eat Local, the Oro Valley Sticker Hunt, and ways to win while supporting local businesses, click here.
| | New venue for Tuesday's first Non-Profit Collaborative | | |
------Your Chamber’s first Non-Profit Collaborative meeting is this Tuesday, June 17, from 2 to 3:30 p.m.
------Response to the gathering has been “wonderful,” according to Leah Bahan, Chamber business development director.
------So wonderful, in fact, that the session has been moved from the Chamber office to a new location, the Church of the Apostles, 12111 N. La Cholla.
------“We just don’t have space in the chamber offices,” Bahan said.
------The Non-Profit Collaborative is intended to connect nonprofits, learn about one another’s work and challenges, and explore ways to help one another.
------“Please bring lots of cards and materials to share with other non-profits,” Bahan said.
------To register, click here.
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We're Hiring!
Member & Operations Coordinator
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------Your small-but-mighty Chamber team is looking for a dynamic, detail-loving team member to help keep us organized and connected. This part-time role blends administrative support with relationship-building and member engagement, ideal for someone who thrives on variety and wants to make a meaningful impact.
------On the administrative side, you’d handle things like office management, supply tracking, scheduling services, keeping the workspace tidy, checking mail, supporting our bookkeeper, sending invoices, managing newsletter advertising, supporting President/ CEO's email and calendar coordination, preparing renewal packets, and assisting with Chamber events, programs, and Foundation projects.
------On the relationship side, you'd lead our member retention efforts and take ownership of our high-level member relationships. That includes checking in with members, scheduling annual in-person meetings, renewing agreements, invoicing and tracking payments, and finding ways to bring added value to the businesses we serve.
------If you're a proactive multitasker who loves systems and people, this could be the perfect fit.
------For more information, here's the link to the full job description.
| | OV concert series shows June 13, 22 at members | | |
------Two free concerts in the Oro Valley Summer Concert Series are on the schedule.
------Bryan & KOKO play blues and rock from 6 to 8 p.m. today, Friday, at Chamber member Fork & Fire Smokehouse and Taproom, 1835 N. Oracle, Suite 101 in Oro Valley Marketplace.
------Bryan and KOKO are both inductees in the Arizona Blues Hall of Fame. “Their music is perfect fit for mellower, toned-down shows and events, but they can also kick up a notch to brighten the room,” an invitation said.
------On Sunday, June 22, Eric Schaffer plays Americana music from 5 to 7 p.m. at another Chamber member, Rosati’s Authentic Chicago Pizza, 12152 N. Rancho Vistoso in Oro Valley.
------Eric Schaffer leads The Other Troublemakers, a popular Americana band based in Tucson.
------“This rare solo performance will give audiences a glimpse at his softer, acoustic side,” an invitation said. “Eric regularly writes with his wife, Carol, and collaborated with a group of incredible musicians to create his new album, ‘Dry Lightning.’”
------The performances are presented by Chamber member the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance. Go to saaca.org.
| | County vouchers help switch to electric tools | | |
------Pima County’s Cut Down Pollution program is offering vouchers for electric, battery or manually operated outdoor tools to residents and commercial businesses.
------The program, run by the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality, gives vouchers valued at $200 for a commercial use mower, $150 for a personal use mower, and $50 for handheld equipment.
------Cut Down Pollution program lets residents and commercial businesses exchange working, gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment toward vouchers for electric, battery or manual models. Businesses can exchange an unlimited number of mowers and devices, a release said.
------“Many participants love how easy it is to use electric,” said Arisia Lee, the coordinator for the Cut Down Pollution Program. “Plus, the financial incentives make it easier for people considering the switch to finally transition to cleaner, quieter equipment.”
------Since its launch in January 2020, the program has collected more than 1,335 pieces of equipment, preventing more than 700 tons of air pollution.
------“It’s a lot easier to start, a lot quieter, a lot lighter,” program participant Gus Gomez said of his battery-powered mower. “The batteries, you just put them on the charger and you’re ready to go the next day.”
------Electric equipment is less expensive to operate, quieter, healthier and less of a hassle, the release said. “As gas-powered equipment is turned in and recycled, we know it makes an impact in the air we all breathe,” Lee said.
------To learn more, visit pima.gov/CutPollution, or call 520-273-9898. The program is funded by a grant from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.
| | Use Business One Stop to streamline, explore success | | |
------Arizona businesses can “streamline” their operational needs “one click at a time” by using Arizona Business One Stop.
------The free online tool, operated by state government, lets business people “plan, start and run your business in one convenient, connected, easy-to-use place,” an invitation said.
------Users can find a step-by-step guide to get started, and they’ll receive alerts when it’s time to update files and permits, One Stop said. The site has information about business structures, checklists for small businesses, tax identification number information, access to federal Small Business Administration resources, and suggestions on how to be successful.
------“Best part? You can do it all from your desktop or mobile device,” it continued.
------To sign up, go to businessonestop.az.gov
| | CASA presents Mid-Year Outlook | | |
------The Chamber Alliance of Southern Arizona, of which your Chamber is a member, is teaming up with The Chamber of Southern Arizona's Good Morning Tucson breakfast for OneAZ Wealth Management’s 2025 Mid-Year Market Outlook. Prepare for the second half of the year with global economic insights, navigating risks & opportunities and financial market guidance.
When: June 24th, 7:30 – 10:00 AM
Where: Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort (5501 N. Hacienda del Sol Road)
Learn more and register at thechambersoaz.com/gmt
| | U.S. Army's 250th marked at OV memorial Saturday at 10 | | |
------A commemoration of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary is planned for Flag Day, this Saturday, June 14, at 10 a.m. at the Arizona Heroes Memorial in Oro Valley’s Naranja Park.
------The free, public, 1-hour ceremony “offers an opportunity to honor the legacy of the U.S. Army,” an invitation said.
------It’ll take place under the shaded roof of the memorial’s amphitheater. Tribute is being paid “to the men and women who have served our nation with honor, courage, and dedication,” the invite said.
------Local leaders and veterans are speaking to honor and celebrate “not only the bravery of our soldiers, but also the values of duty, honor and sacrifice that define our armed forces,” an invitation said. “Let’s come together to salute 250 years of courage.”
------Special recognition is being given at the Army Service Wall, which was sponsored by Jim Click in memory of his father, affectionately known as “Boompa.”
------Anyone with questions may email azheroesmemorial@gmail.com.
| | Look hosts 18th world margarita championship | | |
------The 18th annual World Margarita Championship, set for Saturday, June 14, at Chamber member the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa in Oro Valley, was just about sold out as of Friday morning, according to its website.
------The Father’s Day Weekend celebration is presented by the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance, and by Tucson Originals Restaurants.
------Guests enjoy food and drink prepared by more than 20 local restaurants, purveyors and mixologists, live music, interactive arts experiences, behind-the-scenes access to some of Tucson’s top culinary minds, a festive atmosphere and “an immersive cultural celebration,” an invitation said.
------The event runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday at the Westward Look, 245 West Ina in Oro Valley. Go to saaca.org.
| | Cabi stylists present 'End of Season' sale Saturday | | |
------The cabi “End of Season” sale is this Saturday, June 14, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the L Offices, 1860 East River, Suite 325.
------It’s a new location for the multi-stylist event, with “racks and racks of cabi clothing. Everything’s on sale for discounts of 50% and more from retail pricing.
------Seven cabi stylists are participating in the event, according to Chamber member and Ambassador Renee Deeter.
------“We do this twice a year to make room for the new collection coming out,” Deeter said. “We try to be collaborative with each other instead of competitive, and truly support each other in our own businesses.”
------Over the years, cabi stylists have done 25 such sales.
------“It's a crazy, high-energy experience worthy of a reality TV show, but if you're a cabi enthusiast it's the best way to get your hands on this designer brand at a HUGE discount,” Deeter said.
| | Stacks has many new titles, events for the summertime | | |
------Stacks Book Club has a bevy of events and new titles, co-founder Crispin Jeffrey-Franco reports.
------In the Stacks newsletter, Crispin has listed his 10 favorite new releases for June, along with “a few older favorites hitting paperback.
------“I always love hearing what you're reading so next time you see me in the store, let's chat books!” Crispin said.
------Here’s the link to Stacks Book Club events.
------“Summer for Stacks is such a critical time, like it is for almost all locally owned businesses in Tucson,” Crispin said. “As temps go up, foot traffic falls, but to help you find the motivation to keep visiting, we have some amazing events coming up and a ton of great new books hitting the shelves.”
------Stacks Book Club and Coffee Bar is located at 1880 E. Tangerine, Suite 140, in Oro Valley Marketplace. Hours are 7 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. The website is stacksbookclub.com.
| | Learn all about AI at July 9 Downtown Campus workshop | | |
------“Boost Your Bottom Line with AI" is a hands-on session being offered the afternoon of Wednesday, July 9, on the Downtown Campus of Chamber Copper member Pima Community College.
------The workshop is designed for small and midsize business owners and organizational leaders looking to scale their businesses using practical AI tools and strategies, an invitation said.
------Participants are being introduced to AI. Myths and misconceptions are being dispelled. They’ll get an overview of AI tools, and learn how to use the technology for marketing, automation, forecasting, sales and e-commerce.
------“Whether you're just getting started with AI, or exploring ways to integrate it more deeply, participants will leave with real-world examples, practical tools, and clear action steps,” it said.
------The workshop is being presented by Arizona’s Small Business Development Center, and facilitated by director Sue Oliver. It runs from 1 to 5 p.m. in Building M, Room 360 on the Downtown Campus. Access is both in-person and via Zoom. Registration is $15 per person.
------As a highlight, a business owner who has successfully implemented AI is going to share experiences and insights.
------To sign up, click here.
| | National Parks Store has right gifts for outdoors Dad | | |
------The National Parks Store is celebrating fathers with 15% discounts on your purchases.
------If you’re making purchases for Dad online, enter PARKDAD at checkout and save. The savings run through Monday, June 16.
------The National Parks Store is located within Chamber member Western National Parks Association at 12880 N. Vistoso Village Drive in Oro Valley’s Innovation Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The phone is 520-622-6014, the website wnpa.org.
------The Parks Store offered one dad joke for the celebration:
When asked how the Father’s Day hike was, Dad said “It had its ups and downs.”
| | Nest forms a gift basket partnership with Realtors | | |
------Chamber member Nest in the Desert has created a Tucson Realtor partnership.
------Participants can treat their clients to “a beautifully curated gift basket filled with premium home décor items” from Nest in the Desert, located in Oro Valley’s Plaza Escondida at Oracle and Magee.
------Gift baskets strengthen relationships, foster loyalty, and elevate your business, an invitation said. There’s a 20% discount on your first welcome basket.
------Nest in the Desert is located at 7954 N. Oracle, Oro Valley. The website is nestinthedesert.com.
| | Absolutely Art hosting workshops through June | | |
------Workshops are set for the summer at Absolutely Art Gallery & Gifts in Catalina.
------The Chamber member gallery offers Gelli printing and collage workshops on Wednesday, June 11, and fused glass workshops on two Sundays, June 15 and 29. Guests are encouraged to call 520-818-1242 for details.
------The Catalina business, located at 16701 N. Oracle, Suite 171 in Catalina, shows the art of more than 130 Arizona artists. It is open daily, and promoting “great Father’s Day gifts” as well as affordable art.
------The website is absolutelyartgallery.com.
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Dive into a world of knowledge and growth at our Wisdom Wednesdays!
Right at Home Tucson will be leading this workshop on Dementia. Dementia Live Training offers a unique, hands on experience to help you "walk in the shoes" of someone living with dementia. Participants will gain awareness of the challenges associated with cognitive changes and leave with valuable tips and tools to improve communication and connection. The team will bring specialized gear that simulates dementia - specific changes, including altered eyesight, hearing, and tactile sensation.
We'll see you there!
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Evening Mixer with Roche
$5 for members, $15 for guests, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Roche Tissue Diagnostics
1910 Innovation Park Dr.
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Join us for our June evening mixer! Connect with fellow professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The premier networking event you won't want to miss!
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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! To ensure the restaurant can plan accordingly, we kindly ask that attendees sign up in advance.
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The Senior Services Collaborative Monthly Meeting is a gathering that brings together local organizations and service providers to share resources, discuss challenges, and collaborate on innovative solutions. Each meeting typically features guest speakers presenting on relevant topics and open discussions aimed at fostering partnerships and improving access to services for seniors. It's a great opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and collectively work towards creating a more supportive environment for each other and our senior clients.
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Join us for a morning mixer before you head into the office and get the chance to learn from and grow with other community members. Desert Springs Gracious Retirement Living will be providing coffee and pastries for our networking. There's no better way to start your Friday!
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Please join us for the Gen Z Committee meeting! Are you Gen Z and wanting to make friends and business connections that are your age? Please join us for a fun hour of connection after work. Everyone (under 30) is welcome to attend!
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This event is an invite only reception for our High-Level members to be honored. Our Chamber would not be able to function without the love and support from our High-Level members, and we are thrilled to honor them with this event. Join us for a cocktail hour with desserts and to receive an award, we are thrilled to celebrate with you!
For more information about High Level Membership, please contact Makenna.
| | Enjoy these ads. Click on them for more! | | 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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