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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.
| | Please join us to celebrate the opening of Fred Astaire Dance Studios Oro Valley. Learn more about all that they offer and get a behind-the-scenes studio tour. See you there! | | Fees on council agenda; it'll talk more about 3 taxes | |
------On Wednesday, Oct. 15, the Oro Valley Town Council is expected to vote on resolutions that would raise fees for stormwater and recreation services.
------That night, council is likely to discuss – but not vote on – proposed, 2.5% taxes for business “use” of materials, commercial rental of buildings, and telecommunications services.
------At an Oct. 1 town council study session, “staff fielded multiple questions that still need further research and clarity” regarding the new taxes, said Jeffery Hidalgo, spokesperson for the town.
------Mayor Joe Winfield is likely to allow public comment on the tax proposals Oct. 15, Hidalgo added.
------In total, the use, commercial rental, and telecommunications taxes would generate between $930,000 and $1.88 million a year, according to the town’s finance department. The towns of Marana and Sahuarita, and the city of Tucson, levy various levels of those three taxes.
------More money is needed “to maintain the town’s high quality and level of service,” staff argues.
------The town council meets at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Oro Valley Town Hall.
| | OV residents invited to select final designs for youth public art | |
------The Town of Oro Valley, in partnership with Art State Arizona (formerly SAACA) invites residents to choose their favorite designs for three new art installations along La Cholla Boulevard. All 27 sculpture designs feature desert wildlife and were submitted by local student artists. Vote for your three favorites by taking our online survey. Voting is open now and will be available through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 19.
------Nine student artists from BASIS Oro Valley, Canyon Del Oro High School and Ironwood Ridge High School have been creating sculpture concepts inspired by Oro Valley’s desert wildlife. Once the residents of Oro Valley select their three favorite designs, the students will work alongside professional artist Hiro Tashima to construct the sculptures.
------This exciting project is part of the Transportation Art by Youth (TABY) program and funded by the Pima Association of Governments (PAG).
| | What 2 are doing to find local employees | |
------It’s hard to find employees these days.
------Here’s how far two businesses have gone to attract workers.
------Denny’s in Oro Valley uses its disposable paper placemats to advertise that it’s “now hiring you and your bestie.”
------There’s an actual application and a QR code on the placemat, which seeks name, email and phone number, work experience, position desired, full-or part-time availability, days of the week, and “what day you can start.”
------Amazon has mailed postcards seeking full- and part-time employees to Oro Valley mailboxes. Again, the retail and commercial giant publishes a QR code. It offers “stability from day one, opportunity for the future.” Amazon touts its employee access to health care coverage on Day 1, training and apprenticeships, and an average wage of more than $23 an hour.
| | Get Involved: Join the BIG TOV Community Review | |
------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!
| | Promote your Business with a Special Offer | ------Looking for a simple way to reach new customers and increase your visibility? Include a discount or introductory offer coupon in the Chamber’s new and renewing member packets! It’s a great opportunity to get your business in front of fellow members and community leaders. To help track your promotion’s success, be sure to include a special Chamber Code on your coupon. To participate or learn more about this exclusive member benefit, contact Shelley. | | OV installing flashing yellow lights at Tangerine intersections | |
------New, flashing yellow arrow signals are being installed at two Oro Valley intersections starting this Monday, Oct. 6, through Friday, Oct. 10.
------The safety projects at two Tangerine Road intersections -- La Cañada Drive, and the Rancho Vistoso Boulevard / First Avenue junction – are intended “to reduce left-turn traffic accidents,” a release said.
------“Instead of a solid green light, drivers making left turns will see a flashing yellow arrow, signaling they may turn after yielding to oncoming traffic,” a release said.
------The money is all federal – Oro Valley was awarded $569,455 by the Federal Highway Administration as part of the Highway Safety Improvement Program in 2023.
------“Public safety is our town’s top priority, and roadway safety is a critical part of that,” said Paul Keesler, Oro Valley’s public works director. “This federal funding allows us to deliver proven safety improvements at no cost to the town, helping drivers make safer decisions at two busy intersections.”
------Construction is slated at night, between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Traffic signals will operate normally during the daytime. Digital message boards are in place to notify drivers. Motorists are reminded to slow down, follow traffic instructions, and use extra caution, as traffic control guidance will change throughout the night, the town said.
------The federal agency evaluated traffic signal displays, “and determined that flashing yellow arrows provide the highest safety benefit,” the town release said. “Studies show significant reductions in accidents where flashing yellow arrows replaced the traditional circular green. This proven safety improvement is the reason the town received federal funding for the project.”
------Anyone with questions may contact the Public Works Department at 520-229-4850, or email PW@orovalleyaz.gov.
| | ICS is looking for volunteers | |
------Want to make a real difference in just a few hours?
------Join Interfaith Community Services for a feel-good, hands-on volunteer experience that’s perfect for families, friends, coworkers, and groups of all sizes! They’re teaming up with the Community Food Bank to host a Free Produce Giveaway, and they need amazing people like YOU to help make it happen!
------Every week, the Food Bank delivers pallets of fresh produce to six sites across town and with your help, they can get that food into the hands of neighbors who need it most.
------Get ready to roll up your sleeves and jump into a fun, fast-paced assembly line-style drive-thru! You’ll help sort, bag, and load fresh fruits and veggies into cars. Think teamwork, laughs, and community vibes all around.
- Great for team building or service hours
- Perfect for large groups or individuals
- No experience needed just bring a smile!
- Make a meaningful impact in just 3 hours
------To keep things running smoothly, ICS needs 20–25 awesome volunteers at each site. Volunteers arrive 45 minutes before they open to the public and stay 15 minutes after to help with clean-up. It’s a small-time commitment with a BIG heart impact!
------Ready to be part of something meaningful, energizing, and community-driven? Grab your crew and sign up today, let’s give back together!
------To sign up, email Ellie Killian at ekillian@icstucson.org
| | With TEP For Me, people can learn to save on bills | |
------Chamber Silver member Tucson Electric Power is promoting its TEP For Me program, connecting residential and business customers to programs, pricing plans and other options that “fit your budget and lifestyle.”
------Among many subjects, people can learn more about budget billing, pricing plans, energy-saving tips, how to track energy usage and TEP’s mobile app at the website, tep.com/tepforme.com.
------“While TEP provides the same safe, reliable service for everyone, we also offer a variety of programs that can be combined and customized to suit your individual needs,” it said.
| | Tucson's 'Top Workplaces' event is Thursday, 10/23 | |
------Mark Mayfield, the “corporate comedian,” entertains guests at the Top Workplaces 2025 Celebration, presented by Chamber Platinum member Tucson Media Partners, publishers of The Arizona Daily Star / Tucson.com.
------The event is Thursday, Oct. 23, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the historic Bates Mansion in Tucson. Twenty-four employee-voted top businesses in Tucson are being honored. Guests enjoy networking, music, drinks, a buffet and awards.
Mayfield is the author of several self-help books and two joke books, and makes presentations to all types of corporations, conventions, and trade associations. His speaker emphasis is on mental health augmented by his latest book, “I’m Not Okay, You’re Not Okay, And That’s Okay”. In addition, he also makes presentations on change, customer service, and teamwork.
“Great workplaces are worth celebrating,” an invitation said.
------To buy tickets, click here.
| | Peachwave has BoGo for new, renewing members | |
------New and renewing Chamber members are invited to buy 1 – get 1 at Chamber member Peachwave in Oro Valley Marketplace.
------“You are awesomeness,” an invitation said.
Guests at Peachwave Frozen Yogurt & Gelato can build their own frozen treats, with more than 130 recipes. It also offers frozen yogurt and gelato in low-sugar and gluten-free options.
------The address is 12125 N. Oracle, Suite 121, Oro Valley. The phone is 520-268-8134, the website peachwaveyogurt.com. Hours are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, noon-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, noon-10; Sunday, noon-8.
| | Cater with Nautical Bowls, earn special bonus food | |
------Chamber member Nautical Bowls is promoting its catering business to other Chamber members.
------People who place a catering order of at least 20 bowls can get 10 bowls for free. Limitations may apply.
------You’re invited to order online at nauticalbowls.com, or by email at orovalley52@nauticalbowls.com.
------Nautical Bowls’ acai bowls are gluten-free, dairy-free, plant-based, and soy-free, contain zero refined sugars, and are made with organic, all-natural ingredients.
------You’ll get essential vitamins and nutrients “to fuel your life.
------“Fuel is one part of a healthy lifestyle, relationships are another. At Nautical Bowls, we like to prioritize both,” an invitation said.
------The address is 10515 N. Oracle, Suite 167, Oro Valley; the phone 520-771-1138, Hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 9-6 Sunday.
| | Next OVPD 'Dispose A Med' Saturday, Oct. 25 | |
------The Oro Valley Police Department hosts its next “Dispose A Med” collection on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the OVPD Main Station, 11000 N. La Canada.
------Only pills are accepted; no liquids, creams, aerosols or sharps.
------People are asked to leave medications in their original containers.
------Donation of unneeded or expired medications keeps them out of the water supply and off the streets.
| | Two October dates for 'Paws and Planning' ed workshop | |
------Two Chamber members are teaming for 2 educational workshops, “Paws and Planning: Your Pet’s Guardian Angel.”
------Silver member Kinghorn Law / Financial and Sol Dog Lodge present the programs Thursday, Oct. 23, from 6 to 8 p.m., and again Saturday, Oct. 25, from 1 to 3 p.m.
------Sol Dog Lodge is located at 11862 N. Tangerine Business Loop, Marana.
------The events are free. Registration is required. Go to kinghornlaw.com/events.
| | Tucson Thrive with Ramon Gaanderse, Free & Virtual | |
------Join Tucson Thrive on Tuesday, October 14, from 6 to 7pm! The first half of the event will feature a group discussion led by a member of our community, followed by an interview with Ramon Gaanderse, a leader who has helped grow Tucson businesses, created jobs for thousands of students, and shaped Southern Arizona’s future. Join to learn, connect, and be inspired. RSVP to join online!
------Tucson Thrive is a free virtual mastermind for Tucsonans who want to grow through real and meaningful conversations. They meet every Tuesday at 6pm. In the first half of each event, they have insightful and thought-provoking discussions about things like challenges, emotional intelligence, marketing strategies, careers, vulnerability, and more. In the second half, a guest speaker offers insights into their personal journey, sharing their unique passions and experiences to help you reflect, connect, and feel inspired. Join them as they support each other in becoming the best versions of themselves.
------Learn more at tucsonthrive.org.
| | Free tunes at ranch, Marketplace, venues | |
------Free music is back for the season in Oro Valley.
------The Oro Valley Concert Series continues in October, when The Bouncing Czechs perform from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, at Oro Valley Marketplace. The show is free, and all are welcome. Bring a chair.
------Friday night concerts resume on the wide, grassy expanse at historic Steam Pump Ranch. The band City Limits plays Friday, Oct. 24, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Food trucks will be on site. Be sure to bring a chair or blanket.
------Rainy Daze takes the Steam Pump stage on Friday, Nov. 7, 7-9:30 p.m.
------Laura Jean plays at DiBella’s Brunch N’ Booze from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22.
------Freddy & Francine entertain at Platinum member El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort, from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4.
------Anyone with an upcoming event who would like them featured on the Explore Oro Valley App is welcome to email them to Crystal Franke, the town’s destination marketing manager, at cfranke@exploreorovalley.com.
| | Rychener performing at The Overlook Friday, 11/7 | |
------Musician David Rychener, a cowboy at heart, presents a special happy hour performance on Friday, Nov. 7, at The Overlook Restaurant.
------Rychener’s performance is part of a new initiative at The Overlook, located within the Oro Valley Community and Recreation Center, to provide Friday evening activity.
------The show runs from 5 to 7 p.m. Nov. 7. No reservations are needed. Curated cocktails and hors d’oeuvres are on the menu, along with sunset views and Rychener’s “authentic sounds of the Wild West.” He presents a combination of cowboy country, gospel and original music. You can find learn more at davidrychener.com.
------For information, go to elcongolf.com/events.
| | Rockin' 4 Heroes creates $50K endowment at U of A | |
------Chamber member Rockin’ 4 Heroes has created a $50,000 endowment at the University of Arizona.
------The new fund, announced in late September, is providing “critical support to student veterans and Gold Star family members, helping them overcome financial gaps and focus on their academic success,” an announcement said.
------The Rockin’ 4 Heroes Veteran Student Endowment, established through the University of Arizona Foundation, will be administered by the university’s Veterans Education & Transition Services program. Funds can be used to pay expenses the GI Bill doesn’t cover — among them, housing, transportation, or emergency needs — ensuring students can stay on track toward graduation.
------“Many student veterans are balancing school with family responsibilities and unexpected challenges,” said Michael Quinn, founder of Rockin’ 4 Heroes. “This endowment eases those burdens and ensures they have every opportunity to succeed.”
------This marks the second endowment created by Rockin’ 4 Heroes. In 2024, the nonprofit established the Rockin’ 4 Heroes Jacob Dindinger Memorial EMT Scholarship at Pima Community College, honoring a young Tucson EMT who tragically lost his life in the line of duty.
------Founded in Tucson, Rockin’ 4 Heroes’ mission is to honor and support first responders, active military, veterans, and Gold Star families. Its signature event, the fifth annual Rockin’ 4 Heroes Concert, is Sunday, Nov. 9, at James D. Kriegh Park in Oro Valley.
| | Views' overseeding is finished; golf resumed Monday, Oct. 6 | |
------Overseeding is finished at The Views Golf Club, and golf resumed Monday, Oct. 6.
------Fresh rye grass is in, “giving the course a vibrant look and excellent playing conditions for the season ahead,” an invitation said. “We appreciate your patience during the closure and look forward to seeing everyone back on the golf course.”
------The pro shop is open 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 6-31. For tee-time bookings or any questions, contact the pro shop at 520-825-3110, or go to the website.
------The Views Golf Club is an 18-hole course within Sun City Oro Valley.
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Fall book, jewelry sale is Oct. 15-18 at OV library | |
------The Fall Book and Jewelry Sale returns to the Oro Valley Public Library Oct. 15-18.
The event, presented by Chamber member Friends of the Oro Valley Public Library, is held in the meeting room and covered patio at the library, 1305 West Naranja.
Wednesday offers full price books and items, and the best selection. The sale is open 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
------Those hours hold Thursday as well.
Friday is “half-price day,” open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday is “Bag Day,” also 10-5. For Bag Day, $1 Friends reusable bag are required. Fill that bag with books for $10.
------Jewelry is priced as marked all days of the sale.
------The Friends are volunteers who encourage and receive gifts, endowments and bequests to the Oro Valley Public Library. They run 2 bookstores -- The Library Book Shoppe, at the library, and Book Shoppe Too, at Lambert and La Canada. The Friends give annual scholarships, and support many community efforts. Go to orovalleyfriends.org.
| | Grand opening, ribbon for Fred Astaire studio Oct. 14 | |
------Fred Astaire Dance Studios Oro Valley holds its grand opening and ribbon-cutting celebration at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14.
------It is free, and all are welcome.
------Polina Varyvoda, studio manager and certified dance instructor, is planning “a very big and fairly formal event” with local dignitaries and the community.
------There’ll be food, refreshments, and some group and line dancing.
------“From wedding dance instruction, a new hobby or a way to connect with your partner, improving your social life, physical and emotional health, or taking your dance skills to the next level, dancing with Fred Astaire Dance Studios will result in faster learning, higher levels of achievement — and lots of smiles,” the studio said.
------It is located at 7315 North Oracle, Suite 200, on the northwest corner of Ina and Oracle. The website is fredastaire.com/orovalley, the phone 520-849-6800.
| | Celebrate 20 years with the OV Historical Society | |
------The Oro Valley Historical Society celebrates its 20th anniversary this year! Visit the Pusch House Museum at historical Steam Pump Ranch on Saturday, October 18 from 9 a.m. – noon to view the new exhibit “The Society Begins”. They will show you the why, how, and who concerning the beginning of the Society. It wasn’t a huge committee – just three dedicated residents who didn’t want to let Oro Valley’s heritage die. And 20 years later they are still sharing the community’s stories so that you can learn a little more of the history of the area where we live.
------As part of the Be our Ranch Guest program, Gap Ministries will be at the Pusch House Museum continuing their request for new or gently used clothing (sizes 6 – 16) and shoes for kids in foster homes. Check your closets to see what you don’t need that someone else may be very glad to have.
------Enjoy the outdoor walk through the Heirloom Farmers’ Market, pick up some delicious treats for your enjoyment later on, and then walk through history at the Pusch House Museum. Volunteers will be on site to answer questions and provide additional information. Tours of the Museum are free, and donations are gladly accepted to keep Oro Valley history alive!
https://www.ovhistory.org
| | Tucson Auto Museum hosts 'Wine and Wheels' Oct. 26 | |
-------“Wine and Wheels,” a “special evening of wine tasting, gourmet food and cars,” takes place Sunday, Oct. 26, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Tucson Auto Museum.
------Wine and Wheels pairs wines from around the world with classic cars, an invitation said. Guests enjoy wines, delicious bites and guided tours. There’s an engraved souvenir tasting glass, too.
------Tickets are $100 per person.
------Chamber member the Tucson Auto Museum is open at its new home, 4825 N. Sabino Canyon Road. Hours are Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Go to Tucsonautomuseum.org.
| | Shiprock Trading Post show at parks store in OV 10/18, 19 | |
------The first big trunk show of the season comes to the National Parks Store in Oro Valley on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18 and 19.
------The Shiprock Trading Post has supported Indigenous artists since 1894. Today, the trading post works with local artists to offer unique, authentic, and beautiful Native American crafts and fine jewelry.
------“Learn about the history and culture of trading posts,” an invitation said. “Browse and purchase exquisite pieces that reflect the deep-rooted culture of Indigenous peoples of the Southwest.”
------There are talks at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. each day.
-------The National Parks Store is located at 12880 N. Vistoso Village Drive, Oro Valley. It’s in the Western National Parks building in Oro Valley’s Innovation Park. The store is open daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The phone is 520-622-1999, the website wnpa.org.
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Michelle Kroeger, CFO for The Western National Parks Association will present on nonprofit financials.
Topics will include:
How to read financial statements - what should you be looking for?
How to have proper segregation of duties in a limited sized non-profit.
Investment Policies - what to include, what not to.
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
| | Please join us to celebrate one year of Braces520! There will be great fun and special deals. See you there! | | Please join us to celebrate the new Red Light Method Oro Valley! We'll cut a ribbon and learn more about this new facility. | | Please join us to celebrate the grand opening of Wyyerd Fiber! Their brand new facility is open and ready to serve. We'll see you there! | | |
Join us for the premier business and community gathering in Oro Valley, featuring remarks by Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield, the largest business expo in Oro Valley, and outstanding food and hospitality.
The business expo will begin at 9 a.m., the luncheon at 11!
Sponsorships, expo booths, ads, and ticket sales are open now!
This year's event is presented by Lisa Bayless with Long Realty.
| | Enjoy these ads. Click on them for more! | | To secure your free booth at this event, contact Ofc. Manny Guerrero, special events coordinator with the Oro Valley Police Department. | | Interested in High-Level Membership? Email Leah for more information! | | |
Executive Committee
Chair: 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
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
Member & Operations Coordinator
Shelley Fitzgerald
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