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Join us for our first ever Speed Networking Mixer! Get to know people and exchange information through a fun and engaging process. Please make sure to bring at least 10-15 business cards for this event.
This event has a limit of 100 attendees. Don't miss out on the fun and register now!
| | Tuesday event focuses on attracting volunteers | |
------People associated with nonprofits can learn how to attract volunteers at the Chamber's Nonprofit Collaborative meeting this Tuesday, Feb. 17.
------Wesley Perry of Sol Dog Lodge is leading the discussion. It runs from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesday at Sol Dog Lodge, 11862 N. Tangerine Business Loop in Marana. It is free to attend, and all are welcome.
------Your Chamber’s monthly Nonprofit Collaborative brings together nonprofit leaders and community partners.
------The event rotates locations monthly. Guest speakers discuss a topic relevant to the nonprofit sector, and there’s time for meaningful networking, resource sharing, and collaboration.
------“It's an energizing way to stay connected, learn from peers, and strengthen our community impact,” said Leah Bahan, your Chamber’s business development director.
------To learn more, email Leah at lbahan@orovalleychamber.com.
| | Forgiveness granted for Rancho Vistoso signage | |
------More than a year ago now, new monument signs were installed at the Rancho Vistoso Center, the northwest corner of Oracle Road and Rancho Vistoso Boulevard in Oro Valley.
------In and of itself, that’s not news.
------However ... atop existing foundations, the new signs are taller than allowed by the center’s master sign program.
------The remedy, adoption of a new master sign program for the center, was adopted unanimously by the Oro Valley Town Council in late January.
------Monument signs are freestanding structures at main entrances to commercial centers, identifying the center and its resident businesses.
------Existing rules at the Rancho Vistoso Center, home to Chamber members The Gaslight Music Hall and OOROO Auto, allowed up to 10-foot monument signs. Signs reaching 9 feet, 4 inches were installed atop 2-1/2-foot foundations, bringing total height beyond what code allowed.
------In recommending the new master sign program, Oro Valley code administrator Patty Hayes pointed out the signs are adequately distant from the two roads, and the property owner has made landscaping improvements around the signs.
------Milton Solomon, vice president for the California company Architectural Design and Signs, joined the council meeting by Zoom from San Diego. Solomon told the story of the signs’ fabrication, dating back years, and the error in installing them higher than allowed.
------“We ask you to have a little compassion, and allow us to leave the signs as they are,” he said.
------“It’s an honest mistake,” said Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett, who noted the signs and bases are pleasing, and landscaping has been upgraded.
------“It’s just an oversight, an accident,” Councilmember Mary Murphy said. “Happy business to you.”
| | Thursday 'Fuel of Dreams' benefits Special Olympics | |
------“Fuel of Dreams,” a fundraiser for the Special Olympics, runs this Thursday, Feb. 19, at two Fry’s fuel stations in Oro Valley.
------Oro Valley Police Department officers and Special Olympics students are pumping gas, cleaning windows and selling raffle tickets to benefit Special Olympics. OVPD is a longtime supporter of Special Olympics.
------The event runs from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday at the Fry’s on Oracle Road, 10661 N. Oracle, and the Fry’s on La Canada, 10450 N. La Cañada Drive.
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2026 Sponsorships
are now available
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------Sponsorships for Annual Meeting and other major events throughout 2026 are open now. To learn more please view this guide. Sponsors that purchase two or more sponsorships before Feburary 14th will receive 5% off.
------To take advantage of this discount, please email Makenna or call the office at (520)297-2191.
| | Call for Wisdom Wednesday speakers | |
------The Oro Valley Chamber is looking for local experts to take the lead during its upcoming Wisdom Wednesday sessions. This popular series offers members a unique platform to share specialized insights or industry knowledge that can help the local business community thrive. If you have a topic you believe would benefit fellow members, you can get started by emailing a brief overview of your idea to Makenna.
------To ensure the series remains highly relevant, speakers are selected based directly on membership survey responses. If your topic aligns with what the community is currently looking to learn, Makenna will reach out to coordinate a presentation date.
------It is important to note that Wisdom Wednesdays are designed as education-forward events rather than sales platforms. While speakers are more than welcome to bring along brochures and sales information for attendees to take home, the presentation itself should focus on providing genuine value and instruction rather than a direct pitch for products or services.
| | 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.
| | 'Ready. Set. Pickle!' has gained traction in OV | |
------“Ready. Set. Pickle!,” the youth pickleball program created by Chamber member Frank Barletta of Savvy, is gaining after-school traction among Oro Valley young people.
------KGUN 9’s Kenny Darr reports “Ready. Set. Pickle!” has grown from five to 130 school-aged participants.
------Barletta, who moved to Oro Valley from New York City in 2024, is enjoying teaching pickleball fundamentals ... and more. Participants are learning discipline, communication skills, and personal development, he said.
------“Ready. Set. Pickle!” runs twice a week at the Oro Valley Community Center. To read Kenny’s story, and learn more, click here.
------Savvy is a cybersecurity and managed IT solutions business. The website is https://www.followsavvy.com/.
| | Stacks has Valentine's beverages, experiences | |
------Lovable beverages and a Valentine’s Limited Menu are available this Friday and Saturday, Feb. 13 and 14, at Chamber member Stacks Book Club.
------And, in the spirit of giving Valentine’s experiences, Stacks is bringing in two best-selling authors for talks and book signings at special venues.
------Allegra Goodman, bestselling author of ISOLA, is coming to Tohono Chul Park this Monday, Feb. 16 to launch her next novel, “This Is Not About Us.”
------Then, on Sunday, Feb. 22, guests can sit with Grant Ginder, bestselling author of “The People We Hate at the Wedding,” for an evening of conversation and wine at Sunshine Wine. His new book is “So Old, So Young.”
------Limited tickets are available for the two author events. Click here to learn more.
------Stacks Book Club is located in Oro Valley Marketplace. It is open 7 a.m.-8 p.m. daily.
| | Navigate cognitive care with EverCare Placement | |
------A specialized educational event is coming to Tucson to help families and individuals navigate the complexities of cognitive wellness. On Tuesday, February 17, at 4:00 PM, The Fountains at La Cholla will host a Dementia & Brain Health Seminar in partnership with EverCare Placement. The session will be led by guest speaker Melvin Stove, Lead Clinical Outreach Manager from Amen Clinics, who will share the latest research, insights, and resources for supporting long-term brain health.
------The seminar will be held at the community's Club House, located at 2601 West Rudasill Road. In addition to the educational presentation, guests are welcome to learn more about the community’s expanded neighborhood, which features both private and shared residential options. Due to limited seating, those interested in attending are asked to RSVP by February 14 by calling 520-900-6495. This is a prime opportunity for caregivers and proactive community members to learn from industry experts in a supportive environment.
| | 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.
| | Guard your wallet, not your heart | |
------Chamber Silver member Southwest Heritage Bank encourages everyone to stay alert this Valentine’s Day. Romance scams are on the rise, often starting online through dating apps, social media, or email. Fraudsters take time to build trust, using fake profiles and elaborate stories, before asking for money, gifts, or help with a supposed emergency. These scams can affect all ages but often target older adults.
------The Bank also reminds residents to watch out for texts, calls, or emails that pretend to be from a financial institution. Scammers create a sense of urgency, asking for account details, one-time verification codes, or transfers to “secure” accounts. Southwest Heritage Bank will never request passwords, PINs, or verification codes. If anything feels suspicious, hang up and contact your branch directly using a trusted phone number.
------This Valentine’s Day, enjoy the season of love, but remember to protect your finances. Stay informed, stay cautious, and keep your heart—and your wallet—safe.
------Visit https://www.swhbank.com/ for more.
| | Tohono Chul mural unveiled Saturday | |
------Ignacio Garcia’s mural Twilight Sonoran is revealed this Saturday, Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, at Tohono Chul Park.
------The mural unveiling event, “I Heart Art – Love at First Sight,” runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Garden Pavilion.
------Guests enjoy the first public viewing of the mural. They can meet Ignacio, a Tucson muralist with dozens of public art works. Those who attend can consume a complimentary welcome drink, partake in live music, creative activities, and concessions from the Garden Bistro.
------Twilight Sonoran is now the largest artwork in Tohono Chul’s collection. To learn more, click here.
| | Rendition Arts show, talk Saturday at parks store | |
------“Rendition Arts” is the theme of a National Parks Store trunk show this Saturday, Feb. 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
------Guests at the Oro Valley store can shop a variety of “bold metalwork pieces representing petroglyphs from the American Southwest,” an invitation said.
------Artist Bryan Bystedt speaks at 11 a.m.
------No registration is required, and the show is free to attend.
------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
| | OVHS seeking new board member | |
------The Oro Valley Historical Society is currently seeking a new Board member following the upcoming departure of Sue Chambasian. The organization hopes to fill the position by its annual Board meeting on March 26, 2026.
------Board meetings are held monthly at 2 p.m., typically on the last Thursday of the month, at the Oro Valley Public Library. Members can expect a modest time commitment, including meeting attendance and preparation.
------The OVHS Board plays a key role in shaping the future of the organization, supporting volunteers, and guiding preservation and education efforts at Steam Pump Ranch and throughout the community. Individuals interested in contributing ideas, leadership, and community engagement are encouraged to apply.
------For more information, contact Bob Kellar at president@ovhistory.org or (360) 909-1809.
| | Wicked Fast Marathon relocates to OV | |
------Tucson runners can aim for a new personal best at the Wicked Fast Marathon and Half Marathon on Saturday, February 21. This year’s event features a newly updated, lightning-fast course that begins in Oro Valley before transitioning onto the traffic-free, all-paved Chuck Huckleberry Loop. With a gentle 800-foot net drop and a finish line at Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, the route is designed to be one of the fastest in the region, perfect for those chasing a Boston Marathon qualification.
------Registration includes a performance shirt, finisher medal, free race photos, and a celebratory beer at the finish. To make race morning stress-free, organizers are also providing pre-race shuttle transportation from the finish line to the starting area. Whether you are an elite athlete or a first-timer, this point-to-point race offers a scenic and supportive environment for every runner. Secure your spot and view the full course map at wickedfastaz.com.
| | Lotsa Pasta Food Drive held by ICS | |
------Interfaith Community Services (ICS) invites the community to participate in its Lotsa Pasta Food Drive throughout the month of February. Individuals, businesses, schools, faith communities, and neighborhood groups are encouraged to donate or host a local drive.
------From February 1–28, 2026, ICS is collecting pasta noodles and canned pasta sauce (no glass). Pasta is a vital food bank staple—it’s shelf-stable, easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and can feed a family of four for under $5.
------Donations can be dropped off at ICS locations, or supporters can give online through the Lotsa Pasta Amazon Wishlist, with items shipped directly to ICS.
------To learn more, visit https://icstucson.org/lotsapasta/
| | TGMS' Gem Show runs Feb. 12-15 in downtown | |
------It’s Gem Show time across Tucson.
------While many shows are now open, the actual “daddy of ‘em all” is the 71st annual Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, open Feb. 12-15 at the Tucson Convention Center.
------It’s presented by the Tucson Gem & Mineral Society, a member of your Chamber.
------This year’s theme is “Red, White & Blue, Celebrate the Spirit of Minerals.”
------Show hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 12-14, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15. Admission is $15. Some discounts are available through the website, tgms.org.
------The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show is the largest, oldest and most prestigious gem and mineral show in the world. It has enjoyed international stature since the 1970s, and was the first gem and mineral show to bring the hobby enthusiast, the public, and the curator / professional together for discovery and discussion.
------To learn more, go to https://www.tgms.org/show.
| | 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.
| | She believed, she achieved presented at Chamber office | |
------We’ve all been told stories about money—some of them true, many of them holding us back. In this eye-opening workshop, Lies, Leaks, and Legacies, you’ll explore the hidden beliefs about money that keep you stuck, identify the daily expenses quietly draining your finances, and learn practical ways to plug those leaks—both in your personal life and in your business. Then, they'll take it one step further: showing you how to turn those “found” dollars into purposeful investments that secure your future and leave a lasting legacy.
------Join Nancy Jones, Carmen Anderson, and Lisa Starr who bring expertise in neuroscience, business and profitability, and financial fitness to help you transform the way you think about—and use—money. At your chamber office on Wednesday, February 25 at 6:30 PM.
| | United Way's 21st annual business breakfast Feb. 19 | |
------United Way of Tucson’s 21st annual Business Breakfast is set from 7 to 9 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, at the Tucson Convention Center.
------“This event is more than a breakfast, it’s a powerful opportunity to create meaningful impact in Southern Arizona,” an invitation said.
------“Your participation helps advance early childhood education, family support, and equitable educational opportunities that shape the future of our workforce and community.”
------Keynote speaker Dr. Chad Gestson is a nationally recognized education leader and founding executive director of the Arizona Institute for Education and the Economy.
------As the former superintendent of Phoenix Union High School District, “he is known for driving innovative, equity-focused initiatives that connect education to workforce and community success,” an announcement said.
------United Way also recognizes its Literacy and Business champion award-winners at the breakfast.
------The event always sells out, but tickets remain. Go to this website.
------“We hope you’ll join us for this inspiring morning,” the invite concluded.
| | 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 birthday with OVHS | |
------Looking for something fun to do on Valentine’s Day? Come celebrate Arizona’s birthday (yes, it’s also February 14!). On Saturday, join the Oro Valley Historical Society for the last week of their current display - “America’s Semiquincentennial” at historic Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 North Oracle Road. The Pusch House Museum will be open from 9 a.m. to noon, and tours are self-guided with docents available to answer any questions.
------It will be a beautiful day, so take an hour-long walk around Steam Pump Ranch with volunteer Paul Canez, outdoor adventure guide at Miraval, to learn more about the history, and the flora and fauna of this historic property. Meet at the entrance to the Pusch House Museum. Tours are an hour long, with the first tour beginning at 9:15 and the second tour beginning at 10:30. For your comfort, bring a hat, water, and closed-toed shoes to learn more about this Ranch and its inhabitants.
------Also, in the Heritage Garden from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. is archaeologist and volunteer, John Barthelme for a hands-on stone tool–making demonstration. He will be providing the obsidian along with safety gear so that you can watch and maybe try this ancient craft. Replica human and prehuman skulls and African animal bones will also be on display.
And finally, Gap Ministries will return to the Ranch with request for your donations of resealable plastic bags, canned vegetable, and dish soap for use in their kitchen.
------All Society events are free with donations gratefully accepted.
| | 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!
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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.
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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!
| | 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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