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 one of our most precious resources. Join us as we break down what the grant means, how NWRRDS will work, and why investing in water infrastructure is essential for desert living.

 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 local kids. From scheduling activities and training staff to creating unforgettable memories, Amanda gives us an inside look at the magic behind the scenes. Whether you're a parent, future camp counselor, or just curious about how it all comes together, this episode has something for you! 

Be on the lookout for our Fall Break camps - registration open soon at Playov.com.

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 the Town’s early days and his inspiration for writing the book. All proceeds from his book benefit the OV Historical Society.

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 an extraordinary life. Now, he spends his mornings on the courts at the Oro Valley Community Center, proving that age is just a number. He even celebrated his 100th birthday by skydiving!

Tune in to hear Richard’s tips for staying active, building community, and living life to the fullest. Whether you’re a tennis enthusiast, a fitness newbie, or simply in need of a little inspiration, this episode serves up something for everyone.

And...  if you're interested in the Oro Valley Community Center, you can check out all it has to offer here: https://www.orovalleyaz.gov/Government/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Facilities/Community-Center

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 year of celebration by listening to the community’s own words about the beauty, growth, and spirit of our town. This is more than just a look back—it's a reminder of why Oro Valley continues to shine.

What has living in Oro Valley meant to you? Tune in to find out how your neighbors answered that question.

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 community-driven projects, we're highlighting the cool things our Parks and Recreation team is making happen. Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories, special guest interviews, and a front-row seat to the fun, fitness, and forward-thinking ideas shaping Oro Valley’s outdoor spaces and activities. Whether you’re a long-time local or just getting involved, this is your go-to for celebrating what makes Oro Valley’s parks and recreation so special.

This episode we talk about our Youth Scholarship Fund: https://www.orovalleyaz.gov/Government/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Services/Apply-for-Youth-Scholarship-Funds

OV Trails Connect:
https://www.orovalleyaz.gov/Government/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/OV-Trails-Connect

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 planning effort to shape OV’s unpaved trails and paved multi-use path network. Whether you stroll, roll, hike, trot, or run, we want to hear from you.

Your part will make a difference! Opinions and ideas received from the community will have a direct impact on the development of the goals, objectives, and action items for OV Trails Connect.

Visit the OV Trails Connect website to ensure your feedback is counted. 

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 fairness and justice for all. Plus, we dive into some exciting upgrades coming to the Oro Valley court building—enhancements designed to improve efficiency, accessibility, and the overall experience for residents. Tune in for an informative look at the heart of our local justice system! 

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 stories while still giving you up to date information about the cool things happening within Oro Valley Parks and recreation. 

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 integrating art into public spaces, turning Oro Valley into a picturesque destination for both locals and visitors. Tune in to hear about the history, impact, and exciting future of the art tours as they make their much-anticipated return!

Ready to see some fantastic art? Register for the in-person art tours here: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/sonorantastingtours/items/583077/calendar/2025/02/?full-items=yes