Beat the Heat with Movies, Games, and Good Company
Ahh… the dog days of summer. We’re officially in them. Some of us Arizona year-rounders love it here no matter the season, but hey, it’s hot. And when the heat’s on, we need a little fun to lift our spirits.
With Desert Sky Cinema now closed, movie lovers in Green Valley are left searching for a good flick. That’s where GVR steps in! All summer long, we’re showing a couple of movies each month at the West Center Auditorium.
Kicking things off July 15, One Life stars Anthony Hopkins in the moving true story of a man who rescued hundreds of Jewish children before the Nazi occupation.
Later in the month, it shifts from saving lives to losing one of history’s most influential figures. JFK: What the Doctors Saw recounts the memories of the physicians who treated President Kennedy on the day of his assassination. Catch it Tuesday, July 29.
Does anyone remember JFK’s “missile gap” speech? Enter Maverick. August is Top Gun month. The original Top Gun soars in on August 12, followed by Top Gun: Maverick on August 26. Buckle up for a ride that’s as heartwarming as it is high-flying.
Pilots aren’t the only ones taking flight. Ordinary Angels plays on September 16 and features Oscar winner Hilary Swank as a determined hairdresser rallying a small town to help save a critically ill child. Based on a true story, and yes, it’s a tearjerker.
Speaking of tissues, Nowhere Special closes the summer movie season on September 30. It tells the tender, heartbreaking story of a dying father trying to find the perfect adoptive family for his three-year-old son. (Tissues not provided, but highly recommended.)
Tickets for all films are just $2, with concessions available for purchase. Showtimes are 2pm.
Looking for more ways to beat the heat?
GVR’s drop-in activities are perfect for light summer fun. They offer the flexibility to join on your own schedule, a variety of options to keep things interesting, and a relaxed way to stay active and social. Check the GVR website or recreation catalog for schedules and locations.
Canoa Hills has an indoor walking track for those seeking gentle activity without a competitive edge. The lobby offers tables, a sofa, and some soft chairs for reading or meeting friends for games and some socializing. Behind the pool, you’ll find bocce courts and all the equipment you need to play an early morning game.
Want to join a club and exercise in the cool indoors?
• Volleyball: Las Campanas, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
• Tai Chi: Desert Hills on Mondays; Santa Rita Springs on Wednesdays and Fridays
• Table Tennis: West Center, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
If social time is more your speed, the GVR Foundation Bingo and Singles Club offer a friendly space to connect. (Please note: Lions Club Bingo is on summer break.)
GVR Foundation Bingo
CONTACT US — 520-625-3440
Operational matters hotline@gvrec.org
Board policy matters board@gvrec.org
Customer Service 520-625-0288
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
JULY BOARD & COMMITTEE MEETINGS
PLANNING AND EVALUATION COMMITTEE
Thursday, July 10, 1–2:30pm, West Center Room 2 / Zoom
INVESTMENT COMMITTEE
Wednesday, July 16, 9–10:30am, West Center Room 2 / Zoom
Any change in meeting status will be announced on the GVR website calendar.
BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
There are no Board of Directors meetings in June and July.
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: April Hasson Hillard
Treasurer: Nellie Johnson
Assistant Secretary: Bart Hillyer
Assistant Treasurer: Steve Reynolds
DIRECTORS
Dave Barker
Beth Dingman
Marge Garneau
Bev Lawless Lanny Smith
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: April Hasson Hillard
Planning & Evaluation: Steve Reynolds
Email: board@gvrec.org
Can’t attend a meeting in person?
Scan this QR code for ZOOM meetings.
GVR Board Vice President Candy English and President Kathi Bachelor
Did You Know?
Javelina are not pigs. Those fun little critters running around, getting into trash, and snorting and digging up yards, are peccaries. They were rushing and rooting around long before humans made their appearance on the scene, around twenty million years before. Now they love our ornamental plants.
Be afraid; be a little afraid. While they defend themselves if they feel threatened, javelina, otherwise, tend to ignore humans. Apparently, they make a clattering noise that warns potential predators to stay away. I’ve never heard this, luckily enough. Exercise some caution and try not to get between a javelina and her reds (baby peccary) or her food.
Typically, you’ll view them in groups called squadrons. They seem to enjoy coming out at twilight. Or, a rare rainy day may see them wandering about in the daytime.
Halloween presents a dangerous time for human and javelina interaction as they love pumpkin, and when made into jack-o’-lanterns with a scrumptious charred inside; it entices peccary to grab a quick doorstep snack. Attacks result when a homeowner quickly opens his door to a javelina buffet, startles the beasts, and pays for his inconsideration.
If you ever find yourself talking to your physician friend and see a squadron of ten peccaries, you may say to him, ‘That’s a peccary decury, Doc.’
Letter from the President
Dear Members,
One of the best things about Green Valley Recreation is the sheer variety of clubs available to members. Whether you’ve been here for years or just recently joined, exploring our clubs is a great way to connect, learn something new, or simply have fun with others who share your interests.
You don’t need to have experience to get started. Maybe there’s a hobby you’ve always wanted to try or something you haven’t done in a while—chances are, there’s a club for it. It’s easy to browse the full list of clubs at GVRec.org and find information about their activities, meeting times, and how to reach out.
Many clubs welcome visitors to sit in on a meeting or attend an event before joining. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to see if it’s a good fit, talk with club members, and get a sense of the group’s atmosphere.
Getting involved in a club can make a big difference in how connected you feel to the GVR community. Meet new people, stay engaged, and enjoy what you already love, or discover something completely unexpected.
Kathi Bachelor GVR Board President
Children’s Pool Hours
West Center
Weekdays: Noon–9pm Weekends & holidays: ALL day
Abrego South Daily: 4–6pm
All other pools Daily: 11am–1pm AND 4–6pm
No guest pass required for kids! Children 17 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.
Wally Watson, GVR Photography Club
Discover something new this month
At GVR, we believe in nurturing creativity, wellness, and lifelong learning. Whether you’re looking to pick up a new hobby or deepen an existing interest, GVR offers a wide range of engaging classes in dance, fitness, languages, art, and more— all designed to inspire and connect our community.
Here is just a sampling of classes offered this month:
• Irish Social Dancing, July 8–22; Aug 5, 1–2pm, $5 materials fee
• That’s a Stretch Yoga, July 1–22, 10:30–11:30am
• Italian for Travelers, July 14–21, 2–4:30pm
• Art Journaling for Relaxation, July 7–28, 9–11am
• Gourd Art, Mosaic Glaze Finish, July 8–29, 2–4pm
• Acrylic Painting for Beginners, July 20, 1–4pm
• Marvelous Moths, July 21, 10am–noon
Register online at GVRec.org, call 520-625-0288, or stop by the West Center Box Office.
Ian Kelsall / unsplash
Singles Club Mtg 9:30–10:30pm DH Auditorium
Indoor Drop-in Volleyball 1:30–4:30pm LC Racquetball Building
GVR Foundation Bingo 3–7pm, WC Auditorium
Singles Club Meeting 9:30–10:30pm DH Auditorium
Indoor Drop-in Volleyball 1:30–4:30pm LC Racquetball Building
Singles Club Meeting 9:30–10:30pm DH Auditorium
Indoor Drop-in Volleyball 1:30–4:30pm LC Racquetball Building
Singles Club Mtg 9:30–10:30pm DH Auditorium
Indoor Drop-in Volleyball 1:30–4:30pm LC Racquetball Building
Trivia 4:30pm, DH Auditorium
Richard Paige
JULY 2025
Drop-in Volleyball
1:30–4:30pm Racquetball Building
1:30–4:30pm Racquetball Building
Amigas Meet & Greet 4–5:30pm SRS Anza room
Planning and Evaluation Committee
1–2:30pm WC Room 2 & Zoom
Fourth of July Pool Party: Stars, Stripes, & Splashing Fun 5–8pm, CH pool
Independence Day GVR centers are open as usual; Admin and Box Office are closed.
Paint & Sip: Summer Evening 1–3pm CH Saguaro room
Indoor Drop-in Volleyball 1:30–4:30pm LC Racquetball Building
1:30–4:30pm Racquetball Building
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 25
TRIP
Diamondbacks vs
8:30am–5pm Lobby
Drop-in Volleyball
1:30–4:30pm Racquetball Building Committee 9am–10:30am 2 & Zoom Drop-in Volleyball
5 10 3 24 31 17 11 4 18 12 26 19
Summer Comedy Night
7–8:30pm WC Auditorium
Indoor Drop-in Volleyball 1:30–4:30pm LC Racquetball Building
Indoor Drop-in Volleyball 1:30–4:30pm LC Racquetball Building
1:30–4:30pm Racquetball Building
JULY ART EXHIBITS
Canoa Hills – Richard Paige
Desert Hills, East Center, West Center –Robert Richwine
Monday, July 7
West Center Auditorium
The doors open at 3pm, game sales start at 3:45pm, and bingo starts at 5pm. All proceeds go to MAP (Member Assistance Program).
Keep your eyes and ears open for GVR news in KGVY’s community quarterly newspapers and on the air! spring/ summer 2025
GVR Recreation Catalog May–August
Las Campanas – GVR Photography Club Register Now!
Cooler early mornings are ideal for strolling the walking track near the Del Sol Clubhouse, exploring the paths at Historic Canoa Ranch, or enjoying a quiet moment at Desert Meadows Park. Try shuffleboard at Abrego South, Casa Paloma I and II, Madera Vista, and West Center. Abrego South and Casa Paloma I also have horseshoes. Water aerobics is offered six days a week at seven centers.
Meanwhile, the Aquabelles are in training at East Center for their big 60th anniversary performance this September, and they’re looking for a few good Aquabelles and Aquabeaus.
While you’re at East Center, check out the newly refelted billiards tables. The GVR Billiards Club organizes tournaments and helps keep tables there and at Del Sol Clubhouse in great shape—drop in or join the club. The Clubhouse also offers drop-in foosball, tabletop video games, and old-school games and puzzles.
If you were thinking about hiking, maybe wait. The GVR Hiking Club is taking time off (understandably), but you can attend a September orientation and join hikes the rest of the year.
Stay active and beat the heat this summer by stopping by one of GVR’s six air-conditioned fitness centers or checking out the boxing gym for a fun and energizing workout. Whether you’re lifting weights, hitting the treadmill, or trying something new with boxing, it’s a refreshing way to stay in shape while staying cool.
Finally, we want to hear how you keep cool and entertained this summer. Send your summer recreation stories and photos to hotline@GVRec.org—they just might be featured in future eblasts.
GVR has six fitness centers open from 5:30am–9pm, seven days/week
• Canoa Hills
• Canoa Ranch
• East Center
• Desert Hills
• Las Campanas
• Santa Rita Springs
GVR Centers have a variety of fitness equipment and activities to keep you in shape. Members can work out with cardiovascular and strength training equipment, personal training, small-group training, and a choice of fitness classes.
GVR Aquabelles Club
GVR Table Tennis Club
Summer Events
Fourth of July Pool Party
FRIDAY, JULY 4, 5–8 pm
Party poolside or dive in for a splash of Independence Day shenanigans. Two beverages and a light meal are included.
Canoa Hills Poolside Member/Guest $15
Paint & Sip: Summer Evening
FRIDAY, JULY 11, 1 pm
Sip, swirl, and let your creativity flow as you paint your masterpiece guided by our talented artist. No need to stress about supplies—we’ve got you covered. The fee includes two beverages and snacks.
Canoa Hills Saguaro room Member/Guest $45
Tribute: The Music of Jim Croce
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1, 7 pm
Don’t miss JD Madrid and Jared Bader bring the timeless music of Jim Croce to life. With heartfelt vocals and masterful guitar playing, this tribute performance transports you back to the 1970s.
West Center Auditorium Member/Guest $30; General Public $40
Purchase tickets online at GVRec.org, by phone 520-625-0288, or in-person at the West Center Box Office.
Get Away to Rocky Point: October 21–24
Enjoy coastal breezes this fall and explore the beauty of Rocky Point, Mexico with a three-night beach resort stay at the Peñasco del Sol Beach Resort. Experience the Puerto Peñasco trip your way: lounge on the beach, enjoy the casino, or join your guide for sightseeing, dining, and shopping in the Old Port.
Single Standard Room $800
Single Ocean-View Room $920
Double Standard Room $500 (per person double occupancy)
Double Ocean-View Room $560 (per person double occupancy)
(Rates include transportation, lodging, breakfast, and guide services)
Want to find out more details? Stop by a 2pm free presentation at West Center to learn all about the motor coach trip to Rocky Point. Choose from August 28, September 9, or September 22.
To purchase trip tickets, please email MariluG@gvrec.org.
NEW! Fall Day Trips
Queen Creek Olive Mill
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 7:30 am
Queen Creek Olive Mill is a unique agritourism experience and marketplace. As a local sustainable farm, it produces Arizona’s only extra-virgin olive oil. Your day includes a farm fresh lunch, gourmet shopping, and learning all about olive oil— including how to use it in your kitchen.
West Center Lobby
Member/Guest $99; General Public $109
NASCAR Championship 2025
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 6 am
Enjoy Reserved Grandstand Seats and exclusive track access. Meet your favorite drivers, explore the garage, feel the race up close, and celebrate in Victory Lane.
West Center Lobby
Member/Guest $149; General public $159
Tombstone
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4, 7:30 am
Shopping at Mesa Market Place
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 6:30 am
Get an early start on your holiday shopping at Arizona’s largest outdoor shopping market. Your ticket includes round-trip transportation, and light snacks and bottled water on the bus.
Desert Hills Lobby
Member/Guest $45; General public $55
Kick off your day with a silver mine tour, a six-mile trolley ride, then enjoy the dining, shopping, and entertainment choices in “The Town Too Tough to Die”!
