Chamber fuels UACI at OV's $10K launch contest

  a The University of Arizona Center for Innovation at Oro Valley has made the open call for its 2024 sponsored launch, fueled with $10,000 from your Chamber.

  a The competition provides the winning startup team with resources, facilities, services and expert guidance to grow its business.

  a Applications close Friday, April 26. Applicants must have a startup team living or operating in Oro Valley, and they must be looking to make a significant difference in the local and global community through innovation. To learn more, click here. 

  a In alignment with its mission to grow scalable startup ventures that fuel the Arizona economy, UACI has teamed up with Oro Valley leaders to support science and technology early-stage companies. The collaboration has supported several startups in Oro Valley through previous sponsored launch programs and the bioscience-focused incubator in Innovation Park, UACI at Oro Valley.

  a “Building on the momentum and interest of entrepreneurs who live in the region, the three organizations decided to enhance the sponsorship program this year,” a release said.

  a This year’s winning startup gets one sponsored year of admission at UACI, to include a structured incubation program, customized business mentoring, and the ability to work alongside other startups in a fast-paced environment.

  a “UACI provides the people, programming and place needed to successfully launch and scale a business,” the release continued.

  a Other tools the incubation program provides are office and laboratory space, and assistance through a 27-point roadmap that helps with everything from refining a business model to obtaining funding.

  a Applicants must meet certain qualifications, to include having a startup team that lives or operates in the Town of Oro Valley.

Request for scholarship sponsors from the OV Chamber Foundation

  a The Chamber Foundation is currently reviewing 33 applicants for scholarships. They need your help to provide additional scholarships. These students are well deserving, have great futures as employees and members of our communities and need financial aid to attend college or a trade school. Please consider providing a scholarship for $1500 or a partial scholarship. You will be invited to the breakfast when the scholarships are awarded and be named on the Chamber’s news.

  a Please join the other Chamber members who are providing a scholarship to these students. You can contact either Dave Perry or Kristen Sharp to get information and your tax-deductible donation can be mailed to the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 1822 E. Innovation Park Dr.

Unlock the Potential of AI for your business with upcoming webinar

  a The Chamber Alliance of Southern Arizona, made up of ten Chambers representing southern Arizona, is thrilled to invite you to a free webinar titled "Demystifying AI: Insights for Small and Large Businesses in Southern Arizona". This session is meticulously designed to help businesses of all sizes harness the transformative power of artificial intelligence.

  a The webinar will be hosted Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 8:30-9:30 a.m. virtually.

  a Artificial Intelligence is changing the business landscape. Whether you’re looking to streamline operations, enhance customer engagement, or boost your revenue, AI has a solution for you. 

Led by Zach Giglio from GCM—a leader in leveraging AI to empower businesses—this webinar will provide you with practical tools and insights to integrate AI into your business effectively.

  a Highlights of the Webinar:

• Understand the basics of AI and how it can impact your business.
• Learn about specific AI tools that are easy to implement and yield immediate benefits.
• Hear real-world success stories from businesses that have successfully adopted AI.
• Explore strategies to overcome common challenges in AI adoption.
• This is for businesses at any stage of their AI journey, even without technical expertise.

  a This is an invaluable opportunity to learn from the experts and see how similar businesses are transforming their operations with AI. Whether you manage a small team or oversee multiple departments, the insights from this session will help you understand and leverage AI immediately.

  a Register now by visiting the registration page here. Don’t miss this chance to give your business a competitive edge!

It's 'bag day' on Sat. at OV library Friends' book sale

  a Friends of the Oro Valley Public Library are winding up their Spring Book & Jewelry Sale Saturday at the library, 1305 W. Naranja Drive.

  a It's "bag day" Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For $10, fill up a Friends' cloth bag with all the books and music you can carry. Jewelry is priced as marked.

  a The Friends of the Oro Valley Public Library are volunteers who encourage and receive gifts, endowments and bequests to the library, and to support the freedom to read. They operate two book shops. Go to orovalleyfriends.org.

SCORE offers free webinar on Wordpress this Wed.

  a Chamber member SCORE of Southern Arizona presents “Wordpress – the Workhorse of Websites,” a free webinar this Wednesday, April 24, at 2 p.m.

  a Guests can learn how to “feel like more of an expert when it comes to managing your own WordPress site, and setting it up effectively,” an invitation said.

  a The presenter is Gary Wagnon, chief ninja marketing person for 800 Biz Ninja Marketing.

  a “The main mission is helping businesses stand out above the competition and drive traffic to their doors using a balanced approach of website design, search engine optimization, and social media marketing, coaching and training,” Wagnon said.

  a To register, click here.

StretchLab, Wow Wow celebrated in '50 for 50'

  a StretchLab Oro Valley and Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade are the next businesses featured in 50 Businesses for 50 Years, the celebration of business and Oro Valley’s 50th anniversary.

  a Guests at StretchLab, located at 10515 N. Oracle, Suite 169 in the Rooney Ranch south center anchored by Fry’s and Target, can win 1 of 5 free 25-minute stretches. Visitors to Wow Wow, located at 7705 N. Oracle Suite 103, in Oracle Crossings, are eligible for a drawing to win a $25 gift card and a reusable glass.

  a Support those businesses by stopping by and shopping, and be eligible for those prizes as well as a stay at El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort, two tickets to Tohono Chul Gardens, Galleries and Bistro, a $25 gift card to Noble Hops, or a Stanley-style Chamber mug.

  a “Discover new businesses, or revisit old favorites,” the Chamber urged. Go to orovalleychamber.com for more information.

OOROO celebrates 10 years in OV

  a OOROO Auto, your neighborhood auto shop, was established in Oro Valley on May 1st of 2014 and is celebrating its 10-year anniversary! OOROO invites you to celebrate with them at their Oro Valley shop (Oracle and Rancho Vistoso next to Walgreens) on Wednesday May 1st from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. There will be a short ceremony and light refreshments.

   a OOROO has provided automotive maintenance and repair services to its friends and neighbors in Oro Valley for the last 10 years. Their mobile auto repair and maintenance service is an extension of their mission to deliver "the highest level of expertise, safety, care, and convenience." They fit into their customers' busy lifestyles by providing various auto repair and maintenance services at their home or work. The mobile service vans are fully equipped "shop-on-wheels" and mobile customers enjoy everything OOROO's been known for in their shops––from honest and transparent pricing to exceptional and friendly customer service. 

   a OOROO has always worked to make a positive impact in the Oro Valley community, beyond their daily work of maintaining and repairing vehicles. Its "OOROO Cares" Program partners with community organizations to increase impact and also provides vital support to those in need, including a dedicated team member, the Community Relations Coordinator, whose sole responsibility is expanding and curating the OOROO Cares Program to make a positive impact on the community. 

   a OOROO has grown from employing 7 team members at its founding to 45 today and now has 5 locations and a mobile service in the Tucson and Phoenix markets. As it celebrates 10 years, OOROO reflects that it chose to embed the word "Oro" in its name "OOROO" (O-ORO-O) as a tribute to the mission and values it established in Oro Valley and preserves in its growing business.

Reach for the Stars' breakfast Friday, 5/3

  a Connect with top professionals, build relationships, hear success stories and support a community nonprofit on Friday, May 3, when Chamber member Reach for the Stars presents its third annual Nova Nosh Networking breakfast.

  a The event runs from 8:30 to 11 a.m. that Friday at the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, 5049 E. Broadway #210 in Tucson.

  a Mandie Irby, a Tucson native and entrepreneur who owns Synergy Tax & Accounting, is the keynote speaker.

  a Tickets are $50. Sign up at tinyurl.com/rftsbreakfast2024, or go to rfstars.com

  a Reach for the Stars uses astronomy to improve the mental well-being of young people. It is “exploring the universe to heal those in it.”

Tohono Chul partners with Agave Heritage Festival

  a Chamber member Tohono Chul is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Agave Heritage Festival for the premiere of the Agave, Arte Y Alebrijes Festival. This exciting two-day event will take place at Tohono Chul on Friday, April 19th and Saturday, April 20th from 9 am to 4 pm and offers educational presentations, live musical performances, local cuisine, folk art, and more. 

  a The Agave, Arte Y Alebrijes Festival celebrates the cultural heritage surrounding the agave plant, featuring a vibrant array of Mexican folk art, such as alebrijes (brightly colored sculptures of fantastical creatures), Mata Ortiz pottery, Oaxacan rugs and weavings, agave sculptures, and other artifacts available for purchase. Festival goers can also explore unique offerings from local vendors, Kelly + Jones with mezcal-inspired perfumes and Mama Bare AZ, who will be selling agave and cacti-inspired candles.  

  a Attendees can enjoy live music performances from local acts Tony Redhouse, Las Azaleas, and Q'iru Duet on Friday, April 19th. On Saturday, April 20th, guests can enjoy performances by Dos Sueños, Nico Barberan, and special guests Som do Sisal from Brazil. Som do Sisal, a musical ensemble sponsored by the Brazilian government to participate in the Agave Heritage Festival, performs using instruments

crafted entirely from materials derived from the agave plant. 

  a Saturday’s program includes educational presentations about the agave plant, a Poetry & Plant Walk starting at 9 am, a mezcal tasting experience from 1-3 pm, and a pinch-pot clay workshop tailored for children. Attendees of Saturday’s agave presentations will have the chance to win a free agave plant to cultivate in their yard or garden. Tohono Chul’s Desert Corner Nursery will have several varieties of agaves available for purchase as well as other native and arid-adapted plants. 

  a The event will feature a variety of local food vendors, including Cactus Jack Lemonade, O'odham Ladies Fry Bread, OaxaRico Food Truck, Mojo Cuban Kitchen, Colonel Mustard’s Hot Dogs, Mr. Ice Guy Italian Ice, Jose’s Kettle Korn, Esspressoul Cafe, the Chocolate Ritual, and a bar from Tohono Chul’s Garden Bistro. 

  a "We're so excited to host this event and bring the Agave Heritage Festival to Tucson's north side," said Jamie Maslyn Larson, Executive Director of Tohono Chul. "It's the perfect blend of culture and nature and offers visitors a truly unique experience to explore the traditions of our region and beyond."  

  a The Agave, Arte Y Alebrijes Festival is a dynamic cultural extravaganza you won't want to miss. Ticket prices range from $5 for members to $20 for general admission, with free admission for children 5 and under. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit tohonochul.org/agave-fest.

"Privacy Law in the AI Era" lecture hosted by University of Arizona

  a Join Chamber Gold member The University of Arizona at the Privacy Law in the AI Era conference in Tucson, AZ on April 22 to explore the future of privacy. Renowned scholars will present innovative proposals for a privacy regime that safeguards consumers while promoting AI development for unprecedented progress in fields like health, education, public safety, science, and the arts. They'll engage in interactive discussions with industry leaders, scholars, and technical experts to examine the integration of AI in modern life and the changing privacy landscape.

The conference will take place at the Tucson Convention Center on Monday, April 22, from 8 AM to 4 PM.

  a This conference is a partnership between TechLaw Program at the University of Arizona's James E. Rogers College of Law and The Institute for Computation and Data-Enabled Insight. The "American Privacy Law Project" is a grant-funded proposal supported by the Charles Koch Foundation.

  a Trellis is live and contains more information on the schedule and speakers. Click here to learn more.

Body Fit Training offering summer special for teens

  a Body Fit Training in Oro Valley is offering a summer teen special.

  a “Your teen can train like an athlete during the off-season, or develop strength and confidence this summer,” an invitation said. Classes are led by 2 certified coaches who ensure proper form and offer personalized support.

  a Teens pay $99 per month for an unlimited membership. Call 520- 341-0779 for information, or email orovalley@bodyfittraining.com.

  a Chamber member Body Fit Training opened last October at 11015 N. Oracle, Suite 101, in Oro Valley’s Steam Pump Village. It is an international fitness franchise offering group classes focused on strength and endurance. Free trial classes are available. The website is bodyfittraining.com.

Old Tucson hosts 'Sons of the Pioneers'

  a Old Tucson is hosting Sons of the Pioneers, legends of western music the weekend of April 26th-28th. Don't miss your chance to see them live! For over 90 years, this group has been continuing their legacy as best-in-West entertainment. The current group, featuring Tommy Nallie, Ken Lattimore, John Fullerton, Paul, Elliot, and Chuck Ervin, will be performing at the Grand Palace Saloon stage. Let their music and Old Tucson's atmosphere give you a western experience like no other. You can buy tickets here or by visiting Old Tucson's website, oldtucson.com.

Theatre company stages 'Blithe Spirit' through this Sunday, 4/21, Gaslight

  a Some tickets remain for weekend performances of Blithe Spirit, the Oro Valley Theatre Company staging of Noel Coward’s witty, urbane play at the Gaslight Music Hall in Oro Valley.

  a Remaining performances are at 2 and 6 p.m. Saturday, April 20, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 21. Tickets are $34 for adults, $32 for seniors and active military and veterans. To buy tickets, click here.

  a Karen Kreider directs the show, the third and final in the 2023-’24 season for OVTC.

  a Most members of the cast are familiar to OVTC patrons. They are Michele Holland, Arnie Krauss, Karen Alexander, C. Gilles-Brown, Ted Dreisinger, Ruth Ann Larsen and Sasha Case.

  a Case serves as assistant director and production coordinator. Kevin Cleere handles the set design and construction, Charlie Gebow lighting and operations, Kathy Gillespie the costumes and props.

  a For information, go to orovalleytheatrecompany.com, or call 520-529-1000.

CDO Project Grad needs volunteers before, during, and after party

  a CDO Project Graduation needs volunteers for its work week, event night and breakdown.

  a This year’s event, “Jazzed in New Orleans,” promises to have amazing activities for the more than 420 graduates at Canyon del Oro High School.

  a “But as we all know, the more kids, the more need,” said Tiffany Bucciarelli-Fay, CDO Project Grad internal chair. “Our mission is to protect the safety of our seniors and our community on graduation night.”

  a At this point, Chamber member CDO Project Grad has 12 percent of the volunteers it needs. Any community member is welcome to help.

  a To sign up, go to this link.

  a This year’s event features a foam pit, a full casino, an entire field of inflatables, an outdoor movie, coffee and dessert trucks, “endless food,” face painters, a DJ, three different music groups, a second line with band leaders, and a glow-in-the-dark DJ set.

  a New this year – a cheer line for past teachers and staff to congratulate the seniors.

Indie bookstore day event at National Parks Store 4/27

  a The National Parks Store, located within Chamber member Western National Parks Association, is celebrating Independent Bookstore Day with giveaways and great deals on books.

  a The event is Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 12880 N. Vistoso Village Drive in Oro Valley.

  a The phone is 520-622-6014, the website www.thenationalparksstore.org.

'Wishes in the Morning' Sunday, 4/28, at Stillwell

  a For the third year, you’re invited to “Wishes in the Morning,” a brunch presented by Chamber member Make-A-Wish Arizona.

  a Guests at the event, which begins at 11 a.m. Sunday, April 28, at Tucson’s historic Stillwell House, can “discover how you can help grant wishes for children with critical illnesses in Arizona,” an invitation said.

  a For information, contact Rob LaMaster at 520-731-9474, or email rlamaster@arizona.wish.org.

  a The Stillwell House is located at 134 S. Fifth in Tucson.

Gaslight has play, tribute, dance parties into May

  a Performances continue into May at Chamber member The Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle in Oro Valley.

  a On the heels of the Oro Valley Theatre Company’s presentation of “Blithe Spirit” this weekend, the “Country Boy” tribute to John Denver and James Taylor is Thursday, April 25.

  a Upcoming dance parties are “Solid Gold” on Saturday, April 26, “Vintage Rock” with Shell Shock on May 3, and “All Shook Up” with the RAW band on May 10.

  a Go to gaslightmusichall.com, or call 520-529-1000.

  a Grandma Tony’s Pizza is located within The Gaslight; go to grandmatonyspizza.com.

Wally Smith wins dinner for two at Epazote

  a Wally Smith of Chamber member Vector Impressions has won dinner for 2 at Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails, courtesy of the Oro Valley Chamber Foundation and Chamber Platinum member El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort.

  a Wally stopped by the Foundation’s booth at the 2024 Oro Valley Economic Outlook event, presented by your Chamber April 11 at El Conquistador Tucson.

  a “We’re grateful to Shelby Francom and El Conquistador Tucson for their tireless support of the Chamber, and of the Foundation,” said Dave Perry, board chair for the Foundation.

  a Your Chamber Foundation’s annual scholarship breakfast is set for Thursday, June 20, at the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa. Watch for more information on tickets. And there’s still time to sponsor a scholarship; email Kristen@orovalleychamber.com, or daveperry56@yahoo.com. Your $1,500 gift can change a life, or lives.

Teen Challenge event aids Springboard Home for Girls

  a Teen Challenge Arizona presents its Spring Gala on Friday, April 26, at New Life Bible Fellowship.

  a The event is a benefit for Teen Challenge’s Springboard Home for Girls, a 3-6-month residential shelter for teen girls ages 12-17.

  a Friday’s guest speaker is Elisa Medina.

  a Doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner and events run from 7 to 9 p.m. New Life Bible Fellowship is located at 4900 W. Cortaro Farms Road, Tucson, 85742. Formal attire is requested.

  a To buy tickets, go to springboardhome.com, or call 520-448-4363.

After acquisition, BMO has more for business, Sun City manager says

  a Laura Lytle-Allen, bank manager of BMO’s Sun City Oro Valley office, wants to share BMO’s offerings with Chamber members.

  a BMO acquired Bank of the West last September. It has “phenomenal small business solutions” with lending, business accounts, credit card services and more, Lytle-Allen said. BMO offers comprehensive business programs for women-, Black-, Latinx- and Native-owned businesses.

  a Along with the Sun City office, BMO has locations at Ina and Oracle, and First and Oracle in Oro Valley. The bank has “a much larger footprint in Tucson” since the acquisition. “We stay busy” serving customers in Sun City and Oro Valley. And Laura seeks more business.

  a She can be reached at laura.lytleallen@bmo.com, or by phone at 520-917-4448.