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WEEKLY UPDATE

May 30, 2025

NEWS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Support local eateries,

seek stickers, win prizes

in ’25 ‘Locals Eat Local’

------The 2025 Oro Valley Sticker Hunt is on!

------Your Chamber’s 2025 “Locals Eat Local” campaign kicks off Sunday, June 1, with prizes, digital tools and games, and trivia about Oro Valley.

------Don't forget the stickers, specially designed by Maya Martin, a Tucsonan studying design arts and practices at the University of Arizona. Maya has created a unique sticker for each of the 20 participating Oro Valley restaurants. Collect them all; click here to learn more.

------Individuals and families who download the Explore OV app can win prizes by spending at least $20 at five participating restaurants. Prizes include a cutting board in the shape of Arizona, complete with state map and a heart over Oro Valley. Or they earn an Oro Valley hat / cloth shopping bag combination. To download the Explore OV app, click here.

------“By choosing to support our local restaurants, you are helping to keep unique dining options in our community, supporting local businesses and their employees, and investing in our community,” the Locals Eat Local flyer reads. “Local restaurants support nonprofits and sports leagues, utilize local flavors and ingredients, and make Oro Valley a wonderful place to live.”

------Your Chamber is investing more than $6,000 in Locals Eat Local this year, according to President / CEO Kristen Sharp.

------Participating restaurants are The Views Restaurant, La Hacienda #10 Mexican Restaurant, Cheers to You! Nutrition, Rosati’s Pizza, Peachwave Frozen Yogurt, Fork & Fire Smokehouse, Savaya Coffee, OV Pizza & Pints, Just Kabab, Breadsmith, Noble Hops, Nautical Bowls, Panera Bread, DiBella’s Brunch & Booze, Oranju, Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, Tucson Tamale Company, and Tohono Chul Garden Bistro.

Join us for a very special

event Thursday, June 12

------Your Chamber Foundation has a goal ... and, as has been said, it’s good to have goals.

------We’ve sold 20 tickets to the 2025 Mayor Steve Engle Memorial Scholarship Breakfast, to be held Thursday, June 12, at Chamber Platinum member El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort.

------Revenue from the sale of tickets, priced at $50 each, goes to support the scholarship effort. It pays for parents, grandparents and siblings to attend the breakfast at no charge, making this special event even more marvelous for the families of recipients.

------And, if we sell 30 tickets, that $1,500 represents the value of a scholarship. To buy your ticket, click here.

------For the second year, a record-tying 20 students are receiving $1,500 each, for a total of $30,000 in scholarship awards.

------Among the recipients, 5 are 2025 graduates of Ironwood Ridge, 3 of Canyon del Oro, 2 from BASIS, all in Oro Valley. Two of our recipients are grads of Flowing Wells High School. We’re helping 1 student each from Amphi Online, Amphitheater High School, Marana and Catalina Foothills. One is already a student at the University of Arizona, 2 are at Northern Arizona University, and one is at Pima Community College.

------Please join us for a very special occasion. Bring tissue; you may shed a tear.

OV product Pegnam is your

Chamber’s summer intern

------Andrew Pegnam is the 2025 summer intern at your Chamber.

------Andrew has been raised in Oro Valley, attending Harelson Elementary School, Cross Middle School and Canyon del Oro High School. He is an incoming senior at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, studying strategic communication with an emphasis in public relations.

------His Chamber position, then, is “very relevant” to his education and career aspirations.

------“He’s helpful, he’s willing to learn, and he’s jumped right in,” Chamber President / CEO Kristen Sharp said of Andrew, who has worked as an intern with the city of Flagstaff tourism office.

------Andrew found the Chamber job after a search-engine query proved fruitless. “I started emailing local companies,” he said. And he found the Chamber.

------Among his Chamber duties, Andrew has been working with the Chamber newsletter, to “make it look more refreshed,” getting ideas on new approaches to the Chamber directory, and attending meetings with Kristen.

------“That’s been the most eye-opening,” he said. Andrew met Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield, watched a Regional Transportation Authority committee meeting, and has been learning “about local politics. I had no idea there was so much involved in the community.” He’s come to realize how the Chamber “benefits local businesses.”

------During the interview, Andrew folded tri-fold flyers for your Chamber’s “Locals Eat Local” summer dining campaign, which begins June 1. “I’m happy to take on other necessary projects,” he said.

------In his free time, Andrew enjoys hiking, camping and exploring new places with friends. He can be reached at intern@orovalleychamber.com.

OV conducting survey on

tourism attributes, needs

------Oro Valley wants to learn what you think about the community as a tourist destination.

------The town, which is developing a 5-year leisure travel plan, wants to establish itself as a “unique, must-visit tourist destination,” according to an invitation.

------Now, it is asking residents to complete a leisure travel destination management plan survey addressing 3 core areas of life in Oro Valley – quality of life; shopping, dining and entertainment experiences; and outdoor recreation and parks.

------The survey should take about 10 minutes. All responses are confidential and contact information collected will not be kept for any future use.

------To take the survey, click here.

------People who complete the survey are being entered in a raffle for a chance to win a $100 gift card to a locally owned business of your choice. When prompted, “please provide your email address at the end of the survey to be eligible for the prize drawing,” the invitation said.

Pusch Ridge Disc Golf

is open for summer play

------Pusch Ridge Disc Golf is open for the summer season at 10000 N. Oracle.

------The disc golf course, placed upon the Pusch Ridge 9-hole golf course, has its first disc golf tee times on Saturday, May 31, according to a release from the town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Department.

------Play is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Sept. 21.

------The Pusch Ridge Disc Golf Course gives players of all skill levels a fun, challenging 18-hole experience in one of the region’s most beautiful natural settings, nestled at the base of the stunning Santa Catalina Mountains, the release said.

------“Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the sport, the Pusch Ridge Disc Golf Course offers an unforgettable experience for you and your family this summer,” it continued.

------Golf carts are available on weekends from 7 to 11 a.m. The pro shop offers disc rentals and refreshments on the weekends. All holes include optional short tees, marked in yellow, “ideal for newer players or those looking for a more novice layout,” the town said.

------A Professional Disc Golf Association sanctioned league plays every Friday at 4:30 p.m. Get details at PlayOV.com.

------The course fee is $10 per round per person. Summer memberships are available online. For more information, call Oro Valley Parks and Recreation at 520-229-5050.

Local celebrations for U.S. Army's 250th anniversary

------The U.S. Army’s 250th birthday is June 14, and celebrations are planned across America, in Tucson and in Oro Valley.

------The U.S. Army is marking the milestone in our nation’s capital with various events, including a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, a fitness competition, an Army birthday festival on the National Mall and an Army 250th Birthday Parade.

------Locally, celebrations begin Thursday, June 12, with a cake-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. in the main entrance of the Tucson Veterans Administration Hospital, 3601 South 6th Avenue, Tucson, Building 80.

------Then, at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 14, celebratory events are set for the Arizona Heroes Memorial, located in Oro Valley’s Naranja Park. All are welcome.

------From its founding on June 14, 1775, the U.S. Army has defended freedom older than the nation itself, a release said. It has served as “the shield of our nation, democracy and way of life, standing strong through the battlefields of the past and challenges of today.”

------Brave men and women have shaped the U.S. Army into the world’s premier fighting force. “Inspired by the next generation of soldiers, we remain committed to modernization, lethality, and regulars to face tomorrow's threats.”

------To learn more, contact Michael Bartelle, CSM, U.S. Army-Rtd., who serves as president of the Tucson-Goyette Chapter of Chamber member the Association of the United States Army. The website is www.AUSA.org, the social media page www.facebook.com/TucsonAUSA.

MEMBER HAPPENINGS

Sol Dog 'Donuts, Donations & Dogs' event Saturday, 6/7

------Sol Dog Lodge and Training Center hosts its next Donuts, Donations & Dogs fund-raising event on Saturday, June 7, from 7 to 11 a.m. at its newly opened 11862 N. Tangerine Business Loop campus.

------Pet food is being collected for the Marana Food Bank.

------Sol Dog Lodge dog trainers plan to be “in the house” from 7 to 9 a.m. to meet people and answer questions about dog training, according to Shelley Harris of Sol Dog Lodge. The Al Gusto Coffee Company is going to be in the parking lot, and owner Aldo Boccaccio has agreed to give a free cup of coffee to anyone who makes a pet food donation, Harris said. The donuts are free.

------“Join for a bark and brew morning mingle where pets and caffeine meet,” an invitation said.

------Sol Dog Lodge is beginning its rattlesnake avoidance classes on Sundays in the summer starting June 1. Sessions, presented by Animal Experts Inc., must be booked. They run from 7 to 10 a.m. June 1, July 6, Aug. 3 and Sept. 21. The cost is $125 per session. To schedule, call Marc at 520-272-1825.

------Boarding slots at Sol Dog are booked solid the rest of May and much of June, Harris said. “It’s incredible the support we’ve received from Gladden Farms and Dove Mountain,” she said.

------The website is soldoglodge.com.

Bourne, ensemble performing

Sunday, June 8, at Gaslight

------Joe Bourne and his “exceptional ensemble” are performing the music of legendary composers Cole Porter, George Gershwin and others on Sunday, June 8, at Chamber member The Gaslight Music Hall in Oro Valley.

------The show, with special guest pianist and vocalist Susan Artemis, starts at 6 p.m. at The Gaslight, 13005 North Oracle. To purchase tickets, click here.

------June 9 is the 134^th anniversary of Porter’s birth. His remarkable career spanned more than eight decades, during which he composed more than 800 songs. Among them are classics such as “Begin the Beguine,” “From This Moment On,” “In The Still of The Night,” “Night and Day,” and “Anything Goes.”

------“Do not miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness the enchantment of these musical legends,” Joe said in an invitation. “It promises to be an unforgettable night of musical magic.”

Saguaro City’s ‘Shrek The

Musical’ June 27-29 in city

------Tickets are on sale now for “Shrek the Musical,” a Theatre for Young Audiences show presented by Chamber member Saguaro City Music Theatre.

------Shows run Friday-Sunday, June 27-29, at the Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 West Speedway. The opening show is at 2 p.m. Friday, June 27, followed by shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. both Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29.

------To buy tickets, click here.

------Shrek The Musical is a “fun-filled, family-friendly production” taking audiences to the swamp with Shrek, Donkey, and Princess Fiona, an invitation said.

------“Young performers take the stage alongside professional artists, “bringing fresh energy and heart to the story,” it continued. “Their talent, dedication, and passion shine as they step into the world of Shrek, making this a truly unique and inspiring theatrical experience.”

------Shrek the Musical is “filled with hilarious moments, catchy songs, and valuable lessons about friendship and acceptance,” an invitation said. “This Theatre for Young Audiences production is a perfect way to introduce kids to the magic of theatre while delighting audiences of all ages.”

Family WaterFest weekends

at El Conquistador Tucson

------ Family WaterFest comes to El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort the first weekend of every month through September.

------Families at the Oro Valley resort, a Chamber Platinum-level member, can “beat the heat with 5 pools, including waterslide and a day filled with games and activities for all ages to enjoy,” from “pinata to diving games, treasure hunts, limbo and more.”

------There are prizes, poolside movies, a DJ, and a giant inflatable slide.

------Every Family WaterFest weekend comes with a theme. It’s a “Shark Party” June 6-8, a “Stars and Stripes Splash” July 4-6, a “Pirates Party” Aug. 1-3, and “Under the Sea” Sept. 5-7.

------“Which theme are you choosing?” an invitation said.

------For tickets, book your overnight stay at El Conquistador Tucson and enjoy the weekend of festivities for no extra charge. To book, click here.

CATALYST has discount for

Chamber members on space

------The CATALYST Creative Collective has openings in its co-working space, and it’s offering 20% discounts on event, workshop and meeting room rentals to members of your Chamber.

------Kevin Larkin, manager of the space for Chamber member the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance, invites local businesses, organizations and artists to come on down to Tucson Mall.

------There are many options available, from private functions to board meeting space, classes and instruction and more. Groups of many sizes can be accommodated.

------CATALYST is located at 4500 N. Oracle, Suite 110, Tucson.

------To learn more, click here.

Timeless Play hiring, has

more hours for the summer

------Chamber member Timeless Play is hiring a full-time assistant director for its Oro Valley Marketplace location.

------Co-founder Rosalind Prather is seeking an “exceptional, experienced child care professional looking for a long-term position with a growing company.”

------Skills in high-quality childcare, management, small business operations, customer service, sales and marketing are preferred.

------Rosalind can be reached at rprather@timelessplay.com.

------Timeless Play is now open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m-5 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 to 5 during the summer months. The super-discounted summer membership special is $49.

------Timeless Play is an “innovative drop-off play center” combining “fun, creativity, and care in a safe, screen-free environment,” it said. “Designed for busy parents, we offer flexible, as-needed childcare options that fit your schedule.

------“Welcome to summer,” an invitation said. “We've got you covered on all things childcare.”

------The website is timelessplay.com. The address is 1880 E. Tangerine, Suite 150, on the west side of Oro Valley Marketplace.

Summer special for young

athletes at Dorron Coaching

------Dorron Coaching is offering a summer special on its sports psychology services.

------Sessions are $50 each during the promotional period, with a free consultation available.

------Dorron Blumberg is a mindset coach for athletes. Sports psychology can enhance an athlete’s mental toughness, improve concentration, boost confidence, manage stress and anxiety, help set and achieve goals, and enhance nutrition and habits.

------Dorron Coaching is located at 9255 N. Oracle, Suite 125 in Oro Valley. The phone is 520-525-5457, the website dorroncoaching.com.

Honor your loved one; sponsor

a tree at heroes memorial in OV

------Honor your hero by sponsoring a tree at the Arizona Heroes Memorial in Oro Valley’s Naranja Park.

------The “Legacy in Leaves” project is “a lasting tribute” to military veterans, first responders, healthcare workers and law enforcement that supports the memorial and its efforts. All sponsored trees come with a dedicated, 6-by-6-inch bronze plaque at the base.

------Trees start at $5,000. To learn more, visit Azheroesmemorial.org.

Nonprofit Collaborative starts up Tuesday, 6/17

------The premier meeting for your Chamber’s Non-Profit Collaborative is set for Tuesday, June 17, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Chamber’s 1822 Innovation Park Drive office.

------Leah Bahan, business development director for your Chamber, describes the collaborative as “a special gathering of nonprofits dedicated to mutual support and collaboration to strengthen our collective ability to serve our communities.”

------All Chamber non-profits are welcome to send representatives. It’s free to attend.

------It’s a chance to share insights about your organization’s mission and programs, to share challenges, to learn about one another’s work, to network, and to discover ways “to complement and enhance services.”

------Go to orovalleychamber.com to RSVP.

3-part SCORE series teaches ins, outs of business contracts

------“Mastering Business Contracts,” a 3-part workshop for small business owners, is being presented digitally by SCORE Southern Arizona on 3 Tuesdays, June 3, 10 and 17.

------Veteran attorney Bruce Pearson “breaks down key contract concepts in plain English, helping you confidently navigate and negotiate agreements,” an invitation said.

------He starts with “Contract Fundamentals” on Tuesday, June 3, continues with “Key Provisions to Watch” on June 10, and concludes with “Negotiation Strategies” on June 17.

------Each session is priced at $15. Click here to register and to confirm starting times.

------“A strong understanding of contracts is essential for running a successful business,” an invitation said. “Whether you’re dealing with vendors, customers, or service providers, contracts shape the foundation of your business relationships. Yet, many small business owners struggle with contract basics, leading to costly disputes, dissatisfied customers, and strained vendor relationships.”

------SCORE is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

'Face Forward' photo exhibit opens June 4 in Roche gallery

------“Face Forward,” a new photography exhibition “celebrating the beauty, resilience, and individuality captured through portraiture,” is opening at Chamber Platinum member Roche Tissue Diagnostics in Oro Valley.

An opening night reception is planned from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 4, in the Ventana Gallery on Roche’s Innovation Park campus.

Guests can enjoy live music, snacks, “and the chance to experience stories told through the lens,” an invitation said. “From fleeting moments to intimate self-reflections, each image offers a window into the human spirit.”

Admission is free. RSVP is requested; click here.

Arizona Central Credit Union offers 2, $2,000 scholarships

------Chamber member Arizona Central Credit Union is inviting applications for its CU Succeed Scholarship.

------Every year, the credit union awards 2 $2,000 CU Succeed Scholarships to eligible, graduating high school seniors.

------Applicants must be credit union members, graduating seniors with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher, and must be accepted to and plan on attending full-time an accredited college, university, community college, or technical / trade school located in Arizona.

------The scholarship is renewable annually for a maximum of four consecutive years.

------Applications are needed before June 8. To learn more, or to apply, click here.

UPCOMING EVENTS

June

Gen Z Committee Meeting

Free, 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce

1822 E Innovation Park Dr.

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!

June

Mayor Steve Engle Memorial Scholarship Breakfast

$50 tickets, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.

El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort

10000 N Oracle Rd.

Please join us on Thursday, June 12 at El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort for an Awards Breakfast to recognize outstanding young scholarship recipients and their families.

The breakfast buffet begins at 8:30 a.m., the program promptly at 9 a.m. Tickets are $50 and each one helps provide a free breakfast for a scholarship recipient.

Please arrive in plenty of time to park, go through the buffet line and be seated for the program to begin at 9 a.m.

June

Wisdom Wednesday, "Dementia Live Training"

$5 for members, $15 for guests, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce

1822 E Innovation Park Dr.

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!

June

Evening Mixer with Roche

$5 for members, $15 for guests, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Roche Tissue Diagnostics

1910 Innovation Park Dr.

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!