This winter, GVR makes it easy to enjoy and give the gift of experience. Buy gift certificates in $25 increments to be used for class registration fees (not supply fees), day trips, and event tickets, offering a simple way to share GVR’s many opportunities. With the 2026 Winter Recreation Catalog arriving Monday, December 8, you will find an entire season of programs running January through April. From creative learning to active days out, live entertainment, fitness, and time to unwind, this season offers many inviting choices.
Registration opens Monday, December 15 at 8 am for online and in-person sales, with phone registration beginning Tuesday, December 16 at 8 am. Register for classes and buy event tickets at GVRec.org. You can also do so Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm:
• by phone at 520-625-3440
• in person at the West Center Box Office, 1111 South GVR Drive.
Leisure Education: Learn, Create, and Grow
This winter’s class lineup features a wide range of new ways to learn, make, and experience something fresh. The 2026 catalog includes dozens of new subjects across creative arts, cooking, wellness, cultural exploration, and nature studies. Members with a creative streak will find new offerings such as Abstracting Florals in Motion, Illustrated Dictionary Art, Cobweb Wet-Felted Scarf, Customized Doormats, and Fur and Feathers: Pet Portraits in Pencil. Those interested in developing culinary skills can explore flavors from around the world through French Cooking: Coq au Vin and Crème Brûlée, Greek Cooking: Baklava, Irish Cooking: Millionaire Shortcake, and New Orleans Cooking: Jambalaya.
Wellness and movement courses expand again this season with Adaptive Chair Yoga; Aquatics for Arthritis; Pilates for Health, Back, and Joints; Egoscue Method for Pain Relief and Posture Alignment; and Unwind and Restore. Members looking to build communication and confidence may enjoy CConquer the Fear of Public Speaking, Acting, or Genealogy in Story.
Nature and cultural learning is also well represented. New offerings include Discovering Desert Critters, Secret Lives of Sonoran Desert Insects, Shorebirds: Nature’s Globetrotters, and three virtual travel experiences featuring Argentina, Venice, and Puerto Rico. This is only a sample of what is available. The catalog contains many more classes for members who want to try something new throughout the winter months.
Day Trips and Travel Adventures
GVR continues to expand its travel opportunities with excursions near and far. Borderlandia’s Taco Tours return with more dates for exploring Nogales, Sonora through its food and cultural stories. Members can also journey south to Magdalena de Kino, a colorful pueblo mágico filled with murals, plazas, and the history of Padre Kino, guided by Borderlandia’s Alex LaPierre.
Sports fans will find several day trips designed around major events, including visits to see the Phoenix Suns take on the Orlando Magic, the Arizona Diamondbacks face the Detroit Tigers, and the final round of the Cologuard Classic, where championship golf is set against Tucson’s scenic backdrop. Car enthusiasts can take part in a special trip to the BarrettJackson Car Auction in Scottsdale, known internationally for high-energy auctions and remarkable collector vehicles. For those who enjoy music and entertainment on the road, a visit to Barleens Lunch and Show offers an enjoyable outing that includes a hearty meal and round-trip transportation from GVR.
Performances, Concerts, and Special Events
This season brings a wide mix of concerts, tribute shows, comedy, theater, and dances. Fans of classic rock and vocal harmonies can look forward to Eagle Eyes, celebrating the music of the Eagles, along with Forever Everly, a lively rockumentary/concert dedicated to the Everly Brothers. The Neil Diamond Story, Valens to Valli with Nick Gallardo, and
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CONTACT US — 520-625-3440
Operational matters hotline@gvrec.org
Board policy matters board@gvrec.org
Customer Service 520-625-3440
RECREATION SERVICES
The following centers are open daily from 5:30am–9pm
MAJOR CENTERS
Canoa Hills
Canoa Ranch
Desert Hills
East Center
Las Campanas
Santa Rita Springs
West Center
3660 S Camino del Sol
5750 S Turquoise Mtn Dr
2980 S Camino del Sol
7 S Abrego Dr
565 W Belltower Dr
921 W Via Rio Fuerte
1111 S GVR Dr
(520) 631-7151
(520) 631-0761
(520) 631-8060
(520) 631-8072 (520) 631-7068
(520) 631-8092 (520) 631-7909
Center Operations Assistants (Yellow Shirts) 520-343-2440
SATELLITE CENTERS 520-549-9733
Abrego North Abrego South
Casa Paloma I
Casa Paloma II
Continental Vistas
Madera Vista
Del Sol Clubhouse, 3355 S Camino del Sol, 6am–9pm Pickleball Center, 2612 S Camino de la Canoa, 6am–dusk
DECEMBER BOARD & COMMITTEE MEETINGS
BOARD AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Tuesday, December 9, 1:30–3pm, West Center Room 2 / Zoom
NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS COMMITTEE
Thursday, December 11, 10–11:30am, West Center Room 2 / Zoom
BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGULAR MEETING No Meetings
Any change in meeting status will be announced on the GVR website calendar.
BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
In a regular meeting on November 19, the Board of Directors took the following actions:
• Rescinded the work session minutes of the October 8 vote on October 22, 2025. Approved the work session minutes of October 8, 2025, as presented at this meeting.
• Pulled the minutes of October 22 to present at the January regular meeting, with possible corrections.
• Passed: Option #1, amendment to the guest pass policy in the GVR CPM, section 1.2.2.
• Passed: Request for a MAP grant from GVR Foundation for $25,000.
• Passed: Extension of the GVR and GVR Foundation ad hoc committee until November 2026 to work on a capital campaign.
GVR BOARD
1601 N Abrego Dr
1655 S Abrego Dr
400 W Circulo del Paladin
330 N Calle de las Banderolas
906 W Camino Guarina
440 S Camino del Portillo
GVR BOARD OFFICERS
President: Kathi Bachelor
Vice President: Candy English
Secretary: Beth Dingman
Treasurer: Nellie Johnson
Assistant Secretary: Bart Hillyer
Assistant Treasurer: Steve Reynolds
DIRECTORS
Dave Barker
Marge Garneau
Bev Lawless
Lanny Smith
Jodie Walker
GVR BOARD COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Audit Committee: Bev Lawless
Board Affairs Committee: Candy English
Fiscal Affairs Committee: Nellie Johnson
Investment Committee: Lanny Smith
Nominations & Elections Committee: Beth Dingman
Planning & Evaluation: Steve Reynolds
Email: board@gvrec.org
Can’t attend a meeting in person?
Scan this QR code for ZOOM meetings.
Letter from the President
Did You Know?
A few common missteps in pools and spas, especially using them as a place to wash or rinse off, can create major disruptions for everyone. When someone uses soap, shampoo, or other personal products in a spa, those residues quickly overwhelm the water’s delicate chemical balance. This leads to cloudy water, foam buildup, clogged filters, and sometimes bacterial imbalance. When that happens, GVR’s Aquatics team must close the pool or spa, drain the system, deep-clean the surfaces, flush and replace filters, rebalance chemicals, and then retest the water to ensure it is safe. This process can take many hours, and during that time other members understandably become frustrated when a favorite pool or spa is unavailable.
To help keep everything open and operating smoothly, here are some reminders:
• Shower before entering to remove lotions, deodorant, and sweat.
• Use only the locker room or outdoor showers for washing.
• Wear proper swim attire and avoid cotton clothing, which sheds fibers.
• Keep glass, food, and drinks (other than water in a non-breakable container) at least four feet from the water.
• Report accidents or concerns promptly to a COA at 520-343-2440.
By following these guidelines, everyone helps protect GVR’s shared facilities and ensures more uninterrupted time in the water for all.
Members,
As we move into this special time of year, it’s a good time to reflect on our blessings and look ahead with hope for a brighter year to come. We also recognize that some of our neighbors are facing a more difficult season. For those who need a bit of support, GVR and the GVR Foundation are once again partnering through the Member Assistance Program (MAP) to help members with their GVR dues.
Many of you contribute by adding extra when you pay your dues, and others choose to donate directly to the GVR Foundation, which offers a tax deduction. We’re grateful for every contribution. Your steady participation in the Foundation’s BINGO games has also made a real difference as requests for assistance continue to grow. Please check the weekly GVR eblast for game schedules.
Looking ahead, GVR and the Foundation are planning a major fundraising event in 2026 to build a MAP Endowment that will support members well into the future.
We are deeply thankful for the volunteers and neighbors whose time, generosity, and care strengthen our community. Wishing you a warm and peaceful holiday season.
Kathi Bachelor GVR Board President
Children’s Pool Hours
West Center
Weekdays: Noon–9pm Weekends & holidays: ALL day
All other pools Daily: 11am–1pm AND 4–6pm
No guest pass required for kids! Children seventeen and younger must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Children six and younger must have an adult in the pool with them at all times.
Try a Class This Month
Many members tell us they like to pick up a class when the season slows down a bit, and December can be a good moment to try something new. GVR’s gifts to you this month include Complimentary Yoga and Complimentary Aquatics for Arthritis gentle ways to keep moving during a busy season. If you’re tired of cookies, try your hand at Tamale Making, or get creative with Mittens for Snowbirds and a Fresh Holiday Centerpiece. Prefer something more social? Lift your voice at Sip and Sing Karaoke at the Del Sol Clubhouse.
As the year winds down, many of us gather with loved ones, keep up treasured traditions, and reflect on another year lived. December will end with a kiss, a hug, and a cheerful “Happy New Year.” GVR extends its warmest wishes for a joyful, healthy holiday season and hopes this year was all it could have been for you and yours.
If you’d like help deciding which sessions might fit your goals or you need to register, customer service is available Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm, at 520-625-3440 or in person at the West Center Box Office. They can walk you through openings, fees, or anything else you’d like to know before you take your next class with us.
Singles Club Mtg
9:30–10:30pm DH Auditorium
Free Lessons
GVR Shuffleboard Club 10–11am, WC Courts
New Member Orientation
GVR Tai Chi Arts Club 12:30–1pm DH Fitness Studio
First day of GVR winter class registration: online and in-person, 8am
All Creatures Great & Small 4–5:30pm, WC Auditorium
Paint & Sip
Crimson in the Cold 3–5pm
CH Saguaro room
Sing & Sip Karaoke 4–7pm Del Sol Clubhouse
Desert Spokes Bike Shop
GVR Cycling Club 3–4pm LC Cottonwood room
Show Night
4–7pm Clubhouse
Watch Football Del Sol Clubhouse and amenities at 6pm.
Limited facilities available
5:30am–1pm: pools, fitness centers, sports courts open at CR, DH, LC, EC, SRS, and WC. PBC open dawn–1pm. GVR offices, meeting rooms, and club spaces closed.
GVR offices and West Center Box Office closed. Centers open as usual.
Sweet Saturday 10am–2pm GVR Artisans’ Shop
Open House 10am–2pm WC GVR Lapidary Club
Concert: Civic Orchestra of Tucson 3–4:30pm WC Auditorium
Registration and ticket sales start December 15.
Free Movie: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 4pm, WC Auditorium
Concert: Spinphony 7–9pm, WC Auditorium
Saturday Night Dance Club 6–8:30pm SRS Anza room
Keep your eyes and ears open for GVR news in KGVY’s community quarterly newspapers and on the air!
Saturday Night Dance Club 6–8:30pm SRS Anza room
DECEMBER ART EXHIBITS
Canoa Hills – Santa Rita Art League
Desert Hills – Santa Rita Art Leage
Las Campanas – Heidrun (Runi) Kessler
East Center – Photography Club
West Center – Santa Rita Art League
Buy tickets and register for classes today!
The Music of Motown starring Joe Bourne and The Cream of the Crop Band each offer musical journeys through iconic American sounds. Country music lovers will enjoy A George Strait Tribute with the Troubadour Experience and the performance of Two Canadian Cowboys. Pop and stage favorites are also on the schedule with Simply the Best, a tribute to Tina Turner, and Back to Back, featuring the songs of Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck, along with a warm tribute celebrating Doris Day.
GVR welcomes Britain’s Finest for Shake It Up, Baby, bringing the spirit of the Beatles to the West Center stage. Pick and Holler offer a spirited night of Americana, while My Funny Valentine features timeless love songs on Valentine’s Day. The Civic Orchestra of Tucson returns with a program titled Memories of Concerts Past, and The New Christy Minstrels bring their longtime folk harmonies to the season lineup. Live theater continues with Dancing with the Stars GVR Edition, highlighting performers from the GVR community and beyond.
Comedy fans will enjoy The Laugh Lounge at West Center, a new series produced by Jason Love featuring two standup comedians in each show. For those who like to gather around sports, the Super Bowl Tailgate Party will offer big-screen viewing, games, music, and shared snacks for an easygoing evening with friends. Select West Center events will also include food and beverage service. At the Del Sol Clubhouse, members and their guests can enjoy free monthly favorites including Sing and Sip Karaoke and Game Show Night with Barb Nichols.
Small Group Boxing Classes
Boxing for Fitness with Lizetta Boxing training builds fitness, strength, and coordination. This is a great cardio workout with some strength exercises built into each session. Lizetta has fifteen years of experience as a group fitness instructor for Cardio-Kick Boxing, Boxing, and MMA/TRX.
Desert Hills Boxing Gym
December 2–30; Class#12648
Tuesday & Thursday, 9–9:40am $120 for 4 weeks (2x/week)
Fitness and Active Living
GVR’s fitness offerings continue to provide a broad mix of options for maintaining strength, balance, and overall wellness. Members can choose from individual workouts in the fitness centers, personal training sessions, small group training, and a variety of movement-based classes designed to support healthy, active living. The winter schedule includes both returning favorites and new additions to help members stay motivated through the season.
Drop-In Activities
For those who prefer flexible recreation, drop-in activities remain an easy way to stay active and meet other members. Indoor and outdoor recreation spaces are available between scheduled programs, with posted door schedules and online listings at GVRec.org. Activities include basketball, volleyball, badminton, billiards, shuffleboard, bocce, table tennis, tennis, pickleball, swimming, water aerobics, and the indoor walking track at Canoa Hills.
Winter Movies
A new feature this season, Lunch and a Movie, invites members to enjoy an afternoon film at West Center. Doors open at 12:30pm for an optional lunch, and the $2 movie begins at 2pm. Members and their guests are welcome to attend with or without lunch service.
Plan Your Winter with GVR
The 2026 catalog arrives December 8. With registration opening the following week, members can begin planning a season filled with creativity, activity, community, and fun. Let this winter be a time to explore everything GVR has to offer.
Box Your Way to Fitness
Experience a full-body challenge with boxing training sessions combining intense cardio and strength exercises. Led by Jesus, with twelve years of competitive experience, you’ll learn essential skills and techniques while boosting fitness and coordination. Personalized guidance ensures you get in top shape.
Desert Hills Boxing Gym
December 1–29; Class#11789
Monday & Wednesday, 1:40–2:30pm $120 for 4 weeks (2x/week)
Call 520-625-3440 to sign up!
Support GVR Members in Need
You can help your GVR neighbors by donating to the Member Assistance Program (MAP) fund. For 29 years, MAP has helped GVR members in financial need pay their annual dues so they can stay active and connected with their community.
Add a contribution when you pay your dues, or make a tax-deductible donation online at GVRF.org, or by mail to GVR Foundation, PO Box 1553, Green Valley, AZ, 85622.
HOLIDAY CLOSURES
• Wednesday, December 24: All GVR centers including pools, spas, and fitness facilities close at 6pm.
• Thursday, December 25: Limited facilities available from 5:30am–1pm: pools, fitness centers, and sports courts open at Canoa Ranch, Desert Hills, Las Campanas, East Center, Santa Rita Springs, and West Center. The Pickleball Center is open dawn–1pm. GVR offices, meeting rooms, and club spaces closed.
• Wednesday, December 31: All centers close at 6pm.
2026 ELECTION
This year, GVR members in good standing will elect three of their peers to serve on the GVR Board of Directors. The 2024 bylaw change reduces the Board from twelve to nine directors over a three-year period. Members will vote for three directors, with four directors completing their terms for the next two years. This year Kathi Bachelor, Beth Dingman, Marge Garneau, and Bev Lawless are completing their terms in March.
IMPORTANT DATES
Candidate applications are available year-round at GVRec.org under Governance/Election Information tab.
December 1–18 Candidate application period begins— applications due December 18 at 4pm
January 2–19 Petition period begins— petitions are due by January 19 at 4pm
January 22
January 23
January 28
February 16
Board candidate orientation
Slate of candidates presented to the Board and GVR members
Record date—to receive a ballot, members must pay all outstanding dues by this date, or have submitted for a monthly payment program or dues assistance through the Member Assistance Program.
Notice of Annual Meeting and voting instructions mailed to the address on file with GVR
February 25 Candidate Meet & Greet (after Board of Directors meeting)
March 4
First candidate forum
March 9 Voting begins
March 11
March 20
Second candidate forum
Election ends: last day to vote— paper and electronic ballots due by 4pm New Directors are announced
March 25
Annual Meeting of the Corporation
• Thursday, January 1: GVR offices and West Center Box Office are closed. Centers are open as usual.
December Events
Paint & Sip: Crimson in the Cold
Create a winter-inspired painting with guidance from a professional artist. Members may bring their favorite beverage. Supplies and light snacks are provided.
Friday, December 5 at 3pm – Canoa Hills Saguaro Room
GVR Members/Guests $40; General Public $50
A Kenny Hess Christmas
Civic Orchestra of Tucson: Winter Jubilee
Celebrate the holiday season with festive favorites performed by the Civic Orchestra of Tucson in an intimate concert setting. Bring your favorite beverage.
Saturday, December 13 at 3pm – West Center Auditorium
Tickets for everyone $15
Get your tickets for a tribute to Canadian country artist Kenny Hess, featuring songs from his career and holiday favorites. Beer, wine, and concessions are available for purchase.
Tuesday, December 16 at 7pm – West Center Auditorium
GVR Members/Guests $30; General Public $40
All Creatures Great & Small: Season Preview
Catch an exclusive preview of this PBS MASTERPIECE before it premieres in 2026. James Herriot’s adventures as a veterinarian in the 1930s Yorkshire Dales get a glorious new adaptation in the TV series season six premiere. Bring your favorite beverage.
Thursday, December 11, 4pm
Holiday Movie Night— National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Jingle all the way into an evening of chaos, comedy, and pure Christmas cheer. We’ll have all your favorite movie treats, including concessions for purchase: popcorn, hot dogs, plus a holiday beverage bar featuring beer, wine, spiked eggnog, hot cocoa, and hot cider to keep you warm and cozy.
