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PODCAST · government

This is Oro Valley

by Town of Oro Valley Communications Division

Each month, the Town’s Communications Division will produce a podcast and a highlight video focusing on a different area of Town services. Our hope is that this series will help you better understand the programs and services funded by your hard-earned, taxpayer dollars. We want you to feel proud of this place you call home.

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Episodes

  1. This (pickleball) program is ace! Ready Set Pickle at the OV Community Center

    In this episode, we sit down with Frank Barletta, owner of Ready Set Pickle, to talk about the rapid growth of youth pickleball in Oro Valley. What started as a simple idea to introduce kids to a fun and accessible sport has quickly turned into a thriving after-school program that’s drawing more...

  2. Ask and you shall receive: A look at Constituent Services Coordinator Jessica Hynd's role

    In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Hynd, Constituent Services Coordinator, to talk about what her job really looks like behind the scenes. Jessica is often the first point of contact for residents—fielding questions, concerns, and requests, and helping connect people with the right...

  3. Inside Steam Pump Ranch: Programming, People, and Purpose

    Step behind the scenes at Steam Pump Ranch in this episode featuring Jon Schumacher, Recreation Facility Manager, as he shares how history and creativity come together at one of the community’s most unique spaces. Jon talks about his role in developing fun, meaningful, and inclusive programming...

  4. Rockin’ for a Cause: The Story Behind Rockin’ 4 Heroes

    In this episode, the Town of Oro Valley sits down with Michael and Bonnie Quinn, founders of Rockin’ 4 Heroes — a charity event that brings the community together through music, gratitude, and giving. The Quinns share how their passion for live music and love for those who serve inspired them to...

  5. Serving up Shade: El Conquistador Tennis' New Event Space

    The Pusch Ridge Tennis Facility, part of Oro Valley’s larger El Conquistador Tennis program, is home to a nationally recognized community of players, coaches and members. With 16 post-tension courts, upgraded lighting and a legacy of high-profile tournaments, it is one of the premier public…

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  6. Every Drop Counts: Talking water conservation with Water Utility Director Peter Abraham

    In this episode we dive into Oro Valley’s recent success in securing a major grant to support the Northwest Recharge, Recovery, and Delivery System—better known as NWRRDS. This project is a critical step in ensuring a sustainable water future for our community, bringing long-term reliability to…

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  7. Camp Talk: Behind the Scenes of Summer Fun

    In this episode of What’s Happening in Parks and Recreation, we’re diving into the world of youth summer camps! Amanda Hale, Assistant Recreation Manager for the Town, joins us to share what it takes to plan, prepare, and pull off a fun, safe, and meaningful summer experience for hundreds of…

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  8. A Town's Tale: 50 Years of Oro Valley with Historian Jim Williams

    Local historian and author Jim Williams was recently recognized with an Award of Excellence from the American Association for State and Local History for his book, Oro Valley: The First Fifty Years. Join us as Jim, also a past president of the Oro Valley Historical Society, shares stories about…

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  9. Serving at 100: Meet Richard Shumway

    In this inspiring episode of What’s Happening in Parks and Recreation, Nick sits down with Oro Valley’s own Richard Shumway—a 100-year-old tennis player whose energy and outlook are as sharp as his forehand. From growing up in an orphanage in France to serving in World War II, Richard has lived…

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  10. 50 and flourishing: What do residents and visitors say about OV?

    In this special 50th anniversary episode of This is Oro Valley, we hand the mic to the people who matter most—our residents. From lifelong locals to newcomers, we hear heartfelt, funny, and inspiring reflections on what makes Oro Valley such a special place to call home. Join us as we wrap up a...

  11. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: April 2025

    Welcome to What’s Happening in Parks and Recreation – your inside scoop on all things Oro Valley Parks and Rec! This season, we’re turning the spotlight on the amazing accomplishments happening right in our own backyard. From award-winning events to innovative new programs, improved trails, and...

  12. OV Trails Connect: Planning future trails and paths

    The Town of Oro Valley (Town or OV) offers a unique experience for folks of all abilities to connect with nature, people, and places by walking, hiking, biking, or horseback riding along the Town’s many pathways. The Town is working on OV Trails Connect: Planning Future Trails and Paths—a…

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  13. Order in the Court! A Look Inside Oro Valley’s Justice System

    In this episode of This is Oro Valley, we sit down with Anizza Alvarez, Court Administrator for Oro Valley Courts, to discuss the vital role our courts play in keeping the community safe. Anizza shares insights into how the court system operates, the services it provides, and how it ensures...

  14. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: February 2025

    This month Nick and Lois discuss some fun valentines day programming including Parent's Night Out, conveniently happening on Valentine's day itself, and some very cool rodeo break camp programming for kids. Also, exciting news! In future episodes we'll begin covering exciting parks and recreation...

  15. Art in Bloom: Oro Valley’s Tours Are Back!

    In this episode we sit down with Sasha Case, the passionate coordinator behind Oro Valley's beloved art tours. Sasha shares her insights on the transformative power of public art and how it fosters a sense of community, beauty, and identity. She highlights the town’s long-standing commitment to...

  16. What's Happening in Parks: January 2025

    Happy New Year! Kick off your new year with some exciting programs including hiking opportunities for youth and seniors, as well as a fun senior trivia event - See all of the programming on playov.com.

  17. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: December 2024

    Welcome to this month's episode, where we’re diving into all the exciting winter events happening in Oro Valley! The Parks and Recreation Department has something special for everyone this season. 🎄 SnOV Holiday Celebration: Get ready for a magical evening filled with holiday cheer! SnOV brings...

  18. Bet: Oro Valley’s Future is in Good Hands

    In this episode, we sit down with three inspiring members of the Youth Advisory Council—Tanish, Allison, and Nihar—to dive into the incredible ways they’re making a difference in the community. They share their experiences, motivations, and the unique projects they’re passionate about, from local...

  19. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: November 2024

    It's finally fall here in the desert, so throw on your coziest clothes and be sure to join us at our Parks and Recreation events including a campout under the stars, a hike in Alamo Canyon, and an outdoor film screening of Emperor's New Groove! Register for these events on PlayOV.com.

  20. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: October 2024

    In this episode, we dive into the exciting happenings in parks and recreation this October! As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s no shortage of fun activities for everyone. Join us as we explore upcoming events, including the highly anticipated "Halloveen Spooktacular." This...

  21. 50 years of great stories and amazing people, with Dave Perry

    2024 has been a year of celebration as the Town marks its 50th anniversary. But the celebration goes beyond parades and events. Join us for a discussion with Dave Perry, as we talk about the task of collecting stories about our Town’s history, and why it’s so important to share those stories with...

  22. What's Happening in Parks: September 2024

    This month Lois and Nick discuss some fun events including Bark in the Park: Join the fun on Saturday, September 28th from 5pm-8pm at Steam Pump Ranch for Bark in the Park. Bring your family, friends and doggies! The Dog Costume Contest will have on-site registration the day of the event. Entry…

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  23. Supporting Local Business with the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce

    The Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce is an important town partner who works directly with our business community. Learn about the steps the Chamber takes to meaningfully connect with businesses in Oro Valley from Kristen Sharp, CEO. To learn more about the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of...

  24. Monsoons and Monsters - Staying ready for any emergency!

    This month we speak with Louie Valenzuela, Emergency Management and Safety Coordinator about how to prepare for the most common emergencies we face. Louie discusses his role with the town, how to prepare a 72 hour kit, and has some fun answering how he would handle some made up, desert-themed,...

  25. What's Happening in Parks: July 2024

    This month Nick and Lois discuss the Town's 4th of July celebration, Summer Archery Camps, and multiple opportunities to watch some very silly movies with the family.

  26. What's Happening in Parks: May 2024

    This month town Staff Lois and Nick meet to discuss some upcoming Parks and Recreation events including a senior trip to the zoo, our upcoming Battle of the Bands, some fun Star Wars Day activities and more!

  27. Who let the dogs in? Pima Animal Care Center!

    This month we speak with Monica Dangler, Director and Katie Hutchinson, Outcomes Manager, of Pima Animal Care Center about the services they provide us and how we can best provide for our furry friends. Bonus, they brought in Poppa, a truly sweet Pitty Mix who spent the recording time napping...

  28. From Fireman to Law Enforcement, A look at Fred Roof - Oro Valley's First Police Chief.

    In this episode of our 50th Anniversary podcast series, OV’s first police chief Fred Roof talks to us about the challenges of policing a fledgling community. To see the images referenced in this podcast, visit:...

  29. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: March 2024

    March is full of fun festivities, including our Easter Eggstravaganza, Bike Swap Sell event, and more, so be sure to tune into this episode of 'What's Happening in Parks and Recreation to be in the know and plan fun for you and your family.

  30. Find a friend, or that special someone, at Senior Single Mingle!

    This week Digital Content Specialist Nick Going visits Steam Pump Ranch to attend the Senior Single Mingle. Will he find love, or meet some interesting residents? Tune in to find out. If you're interested in attending the Senior Single Mingle, register here:...

  31. Way Way Back - Signs of the Hohokam Right here in Oro Valley

    Dive into the ancient history of the area we live in. Learn about the Hohokam tribe and the traces of their civilization scattered throughout the town. To view images referenced in the episode, visit:...

  32. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: January 2024

    Join Parks and Recreation Staff Member Lois Feldman and Digital Content Specialist Nick Going as they usher in the New Year with new and exciting Parks and Recreation Programming!

  33. Get to Know TOV’s New IT Director & Stay Cyber Safe This Holiday Season

    This month we speak with Innovation & Technology Director Scott Zufelt about how he became interested in Information and Technology and how we can stay Cyber Safe during the holiday season, a time with increased cyber attacks.

  34. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: December 2023

    The Holidays are here and we're celebrating with plenty of fun events for the whole family. Learn about SnOV (Pronounced, Snow-V) our diverse yoga offerings, winter camps for kids, and more in this episode of What's Happening in Parks and Recreation.

  35. What's Happening in Parks: November 2023

    This month in Parks and Recreation we're offering some exciting yoga options, trivia nights, and opportunities to boogie down with live music. We'll see you there!

  36. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: October 2023

    It's October, the ghouls and goblins are out and we're here to tell you where the spookiest Halloween (Or HallOVeen in our case!) events are!

  37. Building community at Stacks Book Club

    In this episode of This is Oro Valley, Digital Content Specialist Nick Going talks books and building a community space with Crispin Jeffrey-Franco, Co-owner of the newly opened bookstore Stacks Book Club and Nick's coworker, Alison from legal!

  38. What's Happening in Parks and Recreation: September 2023

    In this new monthly podcast, Nick Going, Digital Content Specialist, sits down with Lois Feldman, Parks and Recreation Office Specialist, to discuss the exciting events we have upcoming in Parks and Recreation!

  39. Steam Pump Ranch may be historic, but it's still growing and changing!

    By repairing the barbeque and bunkhouse, the Town continues to uphold its promise to preserve the rich history of Steam Pump Ranch. The bunkhouse, which formerly housed staff who worked on the ranch, will now serve as a multi-use space for events and activities. Public restrooms were also...

  40. Breakfast, lunch and dinner - A day of good eats in the OV

    In this episode of This is Oro Valley, Digital Content Specialist Nick Going discusses his favorite topic... food! Nick meets with restaurant owners and managers across Oro Valley to discuss food and what it's like to own a restaurant in Oro Valley.

  41. Tucson Bicycle Classic? WHAT A RIDE.

    In this Episode of This is Oro Valley we talk with Marc Colbert Executive Director of Tucson Bicycle Classic and Andrew Fairbanks, Tourism Strategies Coordinator, about the Tucson Bicycle Classic race.

  42. Move Across 2 Ranges - A Massive good time!

    On this episode we speak to Dylan Hiatt, Assistant Recreation Manager, about the town of Oro Valley and Town of Marana co-produced event, Move Across 2 Ranges!

  43. This is Oro Valley - Adopt a Road/Trail Programs!

    In season 2 of This is Oro Valley, we have a new host! Digital Content Specialist Nick Going sits down with Page Morrison and Jon Schumacher, our Oro Valley staff members that over see the Adopt a Road and Adopt a Trail programs. We also speak with long term volunteer Mark Daily about what it's...

  44. Birding in the OV

    This month Town Manager Mary Jacobs speaks with Luke Safford, Director of Engagement with the Tucson Audubon Society about birding in the OV. Listen on if you've ever been curious about what birding is, how to get started, and where the best birding action is in our town.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Each month, the Town’s Communications Division will produce a podcast and a highlight video focusing on a different area of Town services. Our hope is that this series will help you better understand the programs and services funded by your hard-earned, taxpayer dollars. We want you to feel proud of this place you call home.

HOSTED BY

Town of Oro Valley Communications Division

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does This is Oro Valley have?

This is Oro Valley currently has 67 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is This is Oro Valley about?

Each month, the Town’s Communications Division will produce a podcast and a highlight video focusing on a different area of Town services. Our hope is that this series will help you better understand the programs and services funded by your hard-earned, taxpayer dollars. We want you to feel proud...

How often does This is Oro Valley release new episodes?

This is Oro Valley has 67 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to This is Oro Valley?

You can listen to This is Oro Valley on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts This is Oro Valley?

This is Oro Valley is created and hosted by Town of Oro Valley Communications Division.
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