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Mayor gives 7th State of Oro Valley address
By: Dave Perry
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------A crowd near 700 heard remarks from Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield at the 2025 Oro Valley State of the Town Address, Luncheon and Business Expo, held at El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort on Thursday, Oct. 30.
------Your Chamber hosted State of the Town for the 24th year.
------In his seventh State of the Town address, Winfield focused on resilience and “forward-looking governance.”
------He described resilience as “the ability to adapt, to absorb shocks, and to keep delivering the quality of life our residents expect.” “Forward-looking governance” means “anticipating tomorrow’s needs and making disciplined, strategic decisions today.
------“Together, these principles form the foundation of every success story in Oro Valley,” he told the crowd.
------The mayor touched upon a number of subjects during his remarks.
------“In every challenge we’ve faced — economic, environmental, or fiscal — this community has always chosen to look forward,” Winfield said. “We’ve invested wisely, collaborated broadly, and planned boldly. Because of that, Oro Valley stands today as one of Arizona’s most livable and sustainable towns.”
------The Rev. Craig Coulter of the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene gave the invocation. The combined honor guards of the Oro Valley Police Department and the Golder Ranch Fire District presented the colors. Members of the Pusch Ridge Christian Academy choir sang our national anthem.
------Before the luncheon, guests visited just under 70 booths at the annual business expo.
------“Thank you, exhibitors, for your hard work in making such a successful expo,” Chamber President / CEO Kristen Sharp told the audience.
------The event’s major sponsors were the Lisa Bayless Team at Long Realty, expo sponsor KE&G Construction, luncheon sponsor HSL Properties, and host sponsor El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort.
------Chris Grey of Christopher Grey Fine Arts provided photography services. Programs were printed by AZ Litho. Anstar Production Group did live videography. Audio-visual services were handled by Commotion Services. Regal Fierce Media was the event videographer.
| | Please join us as we celebrate the grand opening of Fork & Fire Smokehouse and Taproom in Catalina! There will be live music, great food, and good times. See you then! | | |
Dive into a world of knowledge and growth at our Wisdom Wednesdays! We'll be learning how to write grants to help get your organization ahead from Lynda Weigel-Firor.
Lynda Weigel-Firor is a seasoned independent grant writer and consultant with over 25 years of experience. Lynda has played a pivotal role in helping numerous organizations secure millions of dollars through successful grants, capital campaigns, major gift acquisitions, and special events. Lynda serves on the Board of Directors for Greater Tucson Leadership, was recently named one of 90 Women of Impact for Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona, and helped found Promoting Independence, which is working to solve the affordable housing crisis for adults.
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Your one-stop-shop for Medicare, health, legal, financial information and more!
Meet other local seniors and caregivers while learning about local resources that can help you today.
First 100 attendees eat free from Blacktop Grill.
Enter to win a 2 night stay at El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort.
Enjoy entertainment by Joe Bourne, Oro Valley's premier jazz entertainer.
And don't miss your chance to win one of many door prizes!
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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. We'll explore the new La Posada at Pusch Ridge and celebrate their gorgeous campus. There's no better way to start your Friday!
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This time, Bayless shines light on excelling students
By: Dave Perry
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------For several years now, The Lisa Bayless Team at Long Realty has been the presenting sponsor at your Chamber’s annual State of the Town event.
------Most years, Lisa introduces community leaders, those making a difference in the place she’s called home for 18 years.
------This year, at the 2025 State of the Town, Bayless chose to single out tomorrow’s leaders – students making a difference in their schools and community.
------“These students are sure to become our future leaders, and their efforts will not only impact Oro Valley but the entire region as well,” Bayless said.
------Bayless introduced, and spoke about, Amphitheater High School students Jose Sierra Romero and Zeniya Williams-Vega, Canyon del Oro student Piper Casey, Nisma Hansen of Coronado K-8 School, Brodie Simakhodskiy from Cross Middle School, Jacob Oulett of Ironwood Ridge High School, Evelyn Narter from La Cima Middle School and Abigail Pape from Wilson K-8.
------Each student was recognized as exceptional by peers and teachers alike.
------“Remember these kids names,” Bayless told the crowd. “One of them could be our next mayor, police chief, business leader, resident or even our local Realtor.”
------She also introduced Todd Jaeger, superintendent of Amphitheater Public Schools. When Jaeger took the position in 2017, 2 Amphi schools earned “A” grades for student performance based upon standardized tests.
------“This year, eleven of the district's schools are expected to receive an ‘A’ grade, including all of the Oro Valley schools,” Bayless said. “Thank you, Todd.”
------Bayless thanked Mayor Joe Winfield for his service. He has “worked tirelessly for our community with great success,” Bayless said. She described the mayor as “a very honest, ‘down-to-earth’ person who treats others as equals and works incredibly hard to make Oro Valley even better.”
------Eight years ago, Bayless started her Community 1st program, Investing a portion of commissions from each home sale back into the community. Her business has increased more than 500%. She has closed more than $600 million in home sales, and has donated more than $600,000 to local nonprofits. “At least 90% of those funds have stayed right here in Oro Valley,” Bayless said.
------“This room is filled with individuals who dedicate their time, talents, and resources to help our community and others, and that is why Oro Valley is the best town in America,” Bayless said. “Thank you so much, and here’s to Oro Valley’s continued success.”
| | General Plan 60% Draft comment period ends today! | |
------Your Voice is Needed! Share your thoughts on the first draft of the community’s next 10-year plan, known as OV’s Path Forward. The draft outlines goals and specific actions related to economic development, business attraction and retention, and tourism. Check out the goals then share your thoughts on the draft plan through October 31, 2025.
------Visit www.OVPathForward.com today!
| | County departments, other agencies host career fair 11/6 | |
------Pima County is hosting a career fair in partnership with employers in the public sector, including law enforcement and education, this Thursday, Nov. 6, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kino Event Center, 2805 E. Ajo Way.
------Many Pima County departments plan to attend.
------They’ll be joined by state agencies, as well as representatives of the Marana Unified School District, Pima Community College, and others.
------“We invite all job seekers to come explore opportunities not only with Pima County, but also with our community partners in education, law enforcement, and other public agencies,” said Cathy Bohland, the county’s human resources director. “If you’re looking for a fulfilling career while serving your community, you will find plenty of employers to speak with. Come and see what’s being offered.”
------Many of the employers who are hiring will have staff members on hand to answer questions. And the county will have computers available for job seekers to apply on-site.
------Applicants can explore all Pima County job openings online, or call 520-724-8028 and ask for recruitment.
| | Senior resource fair this Thursday, Nov. 6, 10-2 | |
------The Northwest Senior Resource Gathering, your 1-stop shop for Medicare, health, legal and financial information, is set for Thursday, Nov. 6, at the Oro Valley Church of the Apostles.
------The event, presented by your Chamber’s Senior Services Collaborative, runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church, located at 12111 N. La Cholla. It is free and open to the public.
------Guests can meet with other local seniors and caregivers, all while “learning about local resources that can help you today,” an invitation said.
------Scheduled sponsors are Sarah Sowders of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, HomeWell Care Services Tucson, Aria Hospice Comfort Care, Sonoran Senior Solutions, Bayada, Ventana Insurance, Casa de la Luz Hospice, Visiting Angels, ArchWell Health, and Research for Life.
------There are 39 vendors, according to Leah Bahan, your Chamber’s business development director. Booths went “really fast.”
------There are door prizes, among them a 2-night stay at Platinum member El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort.
------Joe Bourne, a Chamber member and Oro Valley’s premier jazz vocalist, is providing the entertainment.
------The first 100 guests receive a free meal ticket from Blacktop Grill. Gluten-free options are available.
------And there are many door prizes.
------Keep your eyes here for more information.
| | Learn latest on scams, frauds at OVPD presentations 11/5, 6 | |
------Two “scams and fraud” presentations are set for Wednesday and Thursday, Nov. 5 and 6, in council chambers at Oro Valley Town Hall.
------The sessions, intended to alert residents to telephone, email, internet and other fraud scams and schemes, are being presented by the Oro Valley Police Department. They are free and open to the public.
------Wednesday’s session starts at 10 a.m. The Thursday session begins at 6 p.m.
------“Both sessions will cover the same information — we’re simply offering morning and evening options to fit everyone’s schedules,” said Steven J. Snyder, OVPD community resource officer.
------Refreshments are being provided.
| | Tohono Chul's Chiles, Chocolate, & Day of the Dead Festival Returns this Weekend | |
------Tohono Chul Park’s Chiles, Chocolate & Day of the Dead Festival runs through 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1.
------The event, “a vibrant celebration of food, music, art, and Día de los Muertos in the gardens,” opens at 9 a.m. Saturday at the park, located at Paseo del Norte and Ina just west of Oracle Road in Oro Valley. Tickets are available at tohonochul.org, or at the door.
------Guests can enjoy live performances by Edna & Ely B-Cool, Gardenias, and Tradiciones on Saturday.
------They’ll find handmade chocolates from local favorites like Chocolate 66, Carolina’s Chocolate, and Tucson Chocolate Factory, alongside fresh chile creations from Chiltepica, The Roasted Chile, Hot Flash Chile Products, and more.
------The Garden Bistro is serving a festive menu. Artisan vendors offer unique gifts and seasonal treasures.
------There are “stunning” Día de los Muertos altars created by local artists and schools. You can add your own remembrance to the community altar. Families can enjoy kids’ crafts, face painting, and hands-on art activities with TJ’s Paint Parties and Red Herring Puppets.
------An exclusive, after-hours, Dia de los Muertos concert with XIXA (chi-cha) begins at 6 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $70 general admission and $60 for members, but Chamber members can get 50% off using the promo code XIX50 at tohonochul.org/xixa.
| | TRICO explores fiber-to-home internet service | |
------Trico Electric Cooperative is launching a Member-Driven Fiber Internet Program to determine if Trico will start offering high-speed fiber internet service.
------Trico is using a pre-subscription program to determine whether to offer fiber-to-the-home internet service, and where to do so, a release said.
------“If enough members pre-subscribe, Trico will launch Trico Fiber and start offering fast, affordable, and reliable fiber internet with the same cooperative values and excellent service Trico has delivered to Southern Arizona for 80 years,” it added.
------Members can pre-subscribe on Trico’s website, www.trico.coop. They can track the pre-subscription levels in their neighborhoods, and encourage their neighbors and friends to pre-subscribe.
------For the past two years, Trico has been performing detailed feasibility studies to understand the financial, engineering, member service, and other impacts of offering fiber internet services, the release said.
------“We have studied and assessed the costs and benefits of offering fiber internet services, we believe Trico can provide affordable, reliable, and fast internet service. If our members show enough interest, we are confident this can be a benefit for all Trico members and the communities of Southern Arizona,” said Brian Heithoff, Trico CEO & General Manager.
------“Today, reliable, fast internet is vital to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity, and Trico is excited to help connect our communities,” Heithoff said. “We see it not just as technology, but as a transformational step forward that will empower our communities for generations to come — just as electricity did all those years ago.”
------Separate from the Member-Driven Fiber Internet Program, Trico is starting work to build the Trico SmartGrid Fiber Backbone, connecting tis electric substations and devices with high-speed, secure fiber communications. That should improve reliability, coordination and communication, allow secure data transfer and protection from cyber threats, and create a smarter Trico grid. Construction on the Trico SmartGrid Fiber Backbone will begin later this year and is expected to finish in fall 2026, the cooperative said.
| | La Posada grand opening at 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 3 | |
------La Posada Pusch Ridge, the new, multi-million dollar senior living campus in Oro Valley, celebrates its grand opening this Monday, Nov. 3.
------The event, with complimentary light refreshments and beverages, is set for 10 a.m. to noon. RSVP by calling 520-531-3480, or visit laposadapuschridge.org/events.
------La Posada Pusch Ridge is located at 11050 N. Avenida Posada de Oro in Oro Valley. It’s tucked behind hills east of First Avenue, and just above the Canada del Oro Wash.
------Parent company La Posada describes it as “La Posada’s newest jewel.
------“With sweeping views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and Mount Kimball as your backdrop, you’ll tour beautifully crafted residences, discover world-class amenities, and meet the team dedicated to curating an exceptional lifestyle,” an invitation said.
------La Posada Pusch Ridge is a Silver-level member of your Chamber.
| | ------Next Tuesday, November 4 from 6 to 7 p.m., join a free virtual mastermind with Leigh-Anne Harrison, founder of Hard Hats & Heels. She went from a 19-year-old receptionist to leading a 9-figure construction team an dnow helps women rise in their careers without burning out. This one will challenge how you think about success. For more information and to RSVP, click here. | | IMPACT partners with Sprouts for food drive | |
------IMPACT of Southern Arizona is partnering with Sprouts Farmers Market at the Oracle Crossings Shopping Center (7665 N. Oracle Rd.) for a food drive.
------The food drive will take place on Friday, November 7th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. IMPACT will be on site collecting non-perishable food items. All the collected food items will go to support their food bank. IMPACT of Southern Arizona currently provides food resources to over 800 monthly households that visit their food bank. For more information visit impactsoaz.org or email Cody Wilkinson.
| | Nest in the Desert opens annual winter wonderland | |
------Nest in the Desert has kicked off its annual Winter Wonderland Open House, which runs through Sunday, Nov. 2.
------Guests can find a showroom “transformed for the holidays,” with exclusive savings on holiday décor and gifts, festive displays and “a little holiday magic to kick off the season right,” an invitation said.
------“Whether you’re refreshing your holiday look or getting a jump on gift shopping, this is the best time to visit Nest in the Desert and see what’s new,” owner Robyn Halperin said.
------Nest in the Desert is located at 7954 N. Oracle, in Oro Valley’s Plaza Escondida. The website is nestinthedesert.com.
| | TFCU provides a lunch for educators in Tucson Unified | |
------Chamber Silver member Tucson Federal Credit Union provided lunch for educators in the Tucson Unified School District on Wednesday, Oct. 29.
------TUSD held its Professional Learning Day that day at five regional hubs.
------Lunch service reaffirmed “the credit union’s long-standing support of local teachers and school staff,” it said in a release. TFCU was founded in 1937 by a group of Tucson teachers gathered in the basement at Tucson High School.
------“Tucson Federal Credit Union was started by teachers, and our commitment to educators remains at the heart of who we are,” said Krystal Adams, chief operating officer of Tucson Federal Credit Union. “Professional Learning Day is about investing in the people who invest in our students. We’re honored to provide lunch as a small ‘thank you’ for their extraordinary work.”
------Local food trucks and supplemental boxed lunches helped provide full coverage.
------Based on projections provided by TUSD, TFCU’s sponsorship “is greatly valued, as it ensures every educator participating in Professional Learning Day is recognized and cared for with a fresh, convenient meal,” the release said.
| | Wednesday program looks at 'life amongst the javelinas' | |
------“Life Amongst the Javelinas” is an in-person presentation this Wednesday, Nov. 5, at 11 a.m. at the National Parks Store in Oro Valley.
------“Say ‘javelina’ to anyone living in ‘javiecountry’, and you are bound to get varied responses,” an invitation said. “Learn how to coexist with these interesting and often misunderstood creatures in this presentation by naturalist Doris Evans.”
------Registration is required. Space is limited to 60 people. Click this link for more.
------The National Parks Store is located at 12880 N. Vistoso Village Drive in Oro Valley, within Chamber member Western National Parks. The website is wnpa.org.
| | Tucson Cactus and Koi announces Inaugural Autumn Artisan Market | |
------Tucson Cactus and Koi is thrilled to announce the launch of a new seasonal tradition: their inaugural Autumn Artisan Market!
------Building on the success of their popular spring event, they are creating a beautiful, festive atmosphere for over 20 exceptional artists, crafters, and makers to showcase their unique creations. This is a prime opportunity for holiday shopping, featuring diverse items like handmade pottery, jewelry, permanent jewelry, candles, crochet, soap, and artwork and so much more!
------There will also be a variety of delicious food options:
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Mutts Be Good Premium Hotdogs (offering hotdogs, nachos, icees, and more)
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Fresh-baked delights from Sweet Pea Bakery
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Gourmet selections from Cactus Jack Pickled Veggies
------Come enjoy the cozy charm of autumn decorations and find a truly unique handmade gift!
| | SHRM invites OV Chamber to their event | |
------SHRM is providing their chamber partners with a discounted rate for SHRM-GT events. OV Chamber members now have the opportunity to attend their annual Employment Law Update at the member rate of $249 (a $200 savings for non-members). This is a full day event focused on the legal and regulatory aspects of the HR operations of a business. There will be plenty of education and networking. The event will be held at Lowe’s Ventana Canyon again this year.
------Use the discount code ‘ELUCHMBRGUEST’ to register and receive the discounted rate. Click here to register.
| | Celebrate 20 years with the OV Historical Society | |
------The Oro Valley Historical Society continues its exhibit at the Pusch House Museum on Saturday, November 8 from 9 a.m. – noon with “The Society Begins” – the journey of how the Society began, who was involved, and the big reason why. Included in the exhibit is the Jim Kriegh meteorite display with ‘space rocks’ from around the world!
------As part of the “Be our Ranch Guest” program, the Society welcomes back We Care Tucson with their request for new or used small electronic equipment (computers, monitors, cell phones, and more). Donations will be scrubbed of personal information, refurbished as possible and recycled if not usable, helping to keep all of these devices out of our local landfills. Gap Ministries returns requesting pasta and pasta sauce (jars ok) along with new and unwrapped toys for kids such as dolls, books, LEGO sets, ear pods, craft kits, sports balls, games, RC cars, makeup sets and mirrors, fidget toys, trains.
In addition, two hour-long gentle walking tours around Steam Pump Ranch are scheduled at 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. Participants will learn about the plants, land, and water in our area culminating in a visit to the Heritage Garden (with pit house) to see what crops have been sustaining the inhabitants of southern Arizona for thousands of years.
------The Society will also be selling tickets for the Jim Click Raffle where YOU could win this year’s first place prize, a Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige! Tickets are $25.00 each or 5 for $100.00, and all proceeds will go to the Oro Valley Historical Society, due to the generosity of Mr. Click.
------The Museum is located at the historic Steam Pump Ranch at 10901 North Oracle Road. Tours are self-guided with volunteers available to answer any questions, and the tours are FREE with donations gladly accepted. Shop at the Heirloom Farmers’ Market, donate to local charities, and take a stroll through history to add to your Saturday activities.
------For more information ovhistory.org
| | PlayPalooza Family Festival returns to Trail Dust Town, Nov. 9 | |
------The Play District is thrilled to announce the return of PlayPalooza Fall 2025, happening Sunday, November 9th from 10 AM to 2 PM at Trail Dust Town. This FREE family festival has quickly become one of Tucson's most beloved community events, bringing together families, local businesses, and organizations for a day of PLAY, connection, and community fun.
------PlayPalooza features over 40 local vendors and organizations, hands-on activities, live entertainment, and memorable family experiences throughout the day. Highights this season include:
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$8 unlimited ride wristbands for all Trail Dust Town attractions
- Free face painting for kids
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Dance parties & interactive entertainment on the main stage
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Community art project led by Young at Heart Together
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Meet & Greets with Favorite Tucson Characters
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A marketplace of local small businesses, nonprofits, and family services
------"We're incredibly proud to see PlayPalooza continue to grow into a signature Tucson tradition," said Katie Yaeli, founder of The Play District. "This event is all about celebrating families, supporting local businesses, and creating a space where everyone in our community can come together for a day of jooy and connection."
------Thanks to the support of local sponsors and community partners, PlayPalooza remainds FREE to attend for all families. Guests can expect music, giveaways, photo ops, and plenty of activities for kids of all ages.
| | Madaras' annual fall show open Nov. 1-16 at gallery | |
------“Romancing the Art,” the annual fall show featuring new paintings by Diana Madaras, is open Nov. 1-16 at Madaras Gallery.
------This year’s show features 24 new Madaras paintings.
------The annual show party is Saturday, Nov. 1, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can meet Diana, enjoy light refreshments, “and be one of the first to see her latest collection!”
------Madaras Gallery is located at 3035 N. Swan, Tucson, 85712. The website is madaras.com, the phone 520-615-3001.
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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.
| | Join us for our November 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! | | |
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, share challenges, learn about each other's work, network with other nonprofits, and discover ways to complement and enhance services.
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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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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.
| | 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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