
PARKS AND RECREATION SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE!
Tucson Parks and Recreation Departments Summer 2013 Program Guide and Class Catalog has arrived, and copies will be available for pick up at all Parks and Recreation facilities, including district offices, centers and pools or click on the link.
The Program Guide contains complete information on leisure classes, swim lessons, summer KIDCO, aquatics, sports programs, sports camps, registration and the Discount Program. In addition, the 72-page booklet contains valuable information on other programs and services, including the Departments recreation, senior, and fitness centers, Reid Park Zoo, Tucson City Golf courses and 17 swimming pool locations.
Using the EZEEreg Registration system, either on-line at: www.ezeereg.com or by phone at 573-3933, is recommended, since summer offerings fill up quickly. Please see the program guide for registration information and deadlines.
Do you know one of the best kept secrets in Tucson? Its the Tucson Parks and Recreation Leisure Classes! They are affordable, have excellent instructors, great facilities, and a welcoming community of students! Adults can enjoy classes like photography, pottery, sports leagues, dance, or jewelry making. Sign the kids up for swim lessons, motor development, theatre, ballet, or sports camps. We truly have something for everyone.
Ten Reasons to Take a Summer Class:
1. Think outside the box and expand your horizons!
2. Step outside of your comfort zone.
3. Meet new people - join a community of like-minded folks.
4 . Focus on the big picture while you improve your self-esteem.
5. Engage your senses - express yourself!
6. Learn new skills and techniques.
7. Enrich your soul, collaborate, inspire!
8. Practice new skills!
9. Develop/improve your physical coordination.
10. Be accountable - create - make a difference!
For questions or more information on registration or programs contact Registration Services at 791-4877.
PRINTABLE VERSION
TUCSON PARKS FOUNDATION CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF GIVING BACK TO OUR COMMUNITY
The Tucson Parks Foundation, a local non-profit organization, is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2013. Founded in 1983, the organization was established to help raise funds to support the facilities and programs of the City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department. Since its inception, the Foundation has donated in excess of $3 million to help fund playground structures, pool equipment and structures, programs and camping equipment for at risk youth, handicap friendly transportation, and artwork. From 1988 through 2004, the Tucson Parks Foundation hosted the Women's Professional Golf Tournament in Tucson, one of the longest running stops on the LPGA Tour.
“The Tucson Parks Foundation is excited to be celebrating our 30th anniversary. For the past 30 years we have been dedicated to supporting and enhancing the work of the Tucson Parks and Recreation Department to enrich the recreational needs of Tucson’s children and families. We are proud to serve our community and would like to thank the local businesses and everyone who has donated to our organization in the past. It’s your support that makes all this possible,” says Cathy Morentin, President of the Tucson Parks Foundation.
For the past five years, the Foundation has conducted the Million Dollar Hole-In-One Contest at the Randolph Golf Complex, allowing us to fund five shade structures for playground equipment at local parks. The goal in funding the shade structures is to help fight childhood obesity, allowing comfortable use of the equipment for a greater portion of the year, while at the same time protecting children from sun related illnesses. The 4th and 5th shade structures are being constructed this summer. The 6th Annual Million Dollar Hole-In-One Contest is scheduled for March 2014.
For more information contact Cathy Morentin, President of the Tucson
Parks Foundation at CathyMorentin@Cox.netIVAN'S SPOT - OFF LEASH DOG PARK NAMING DEDICATION SATURDAY, JUNE 1, 2013
Join us Saturday, June 1, at 9 a.m. at Purple Heart Park, 10050 East Rita Road, as we celebrate the life and loving memory of Ivan, the two year old Belgian Malinois. He was born in Czechoslovakia but eventually was tested and purchased by the Tucson Police Department to become a police K-9. Ivan was certified as a patrol and narcotic K-9 handled by Officer Chris Fenoglio and was a cherished member of the Fenoglio family. Ivan and his family live in the Rita Ranch Neighborhood and after every work shift Ivan would come to Purple Heart Dog Park to run off steam and relax.
On December 12, 2012, Ivan and Officer Fenoglio found themselves involved in a high speed pursuit of a carjacking suspect. The suspect crashed the stolen vehicle and ran into the neighborhood. The suspect was known to be armed and was a clear danger to the citizens of Tucson. K-9 Ivan pulled Officer Fenoglio and other officers through the neighborhood to the front patio of a house. The suspect was hiding on the patio and K-9 Ivan was sent to apprehend the suspect. Without fear or hesitation K-9 Ivan charged the suspect and bit him on the arm. The suspect revealed a handgun and fired one shot into Ivan's shoulder before turning the gun towards the police officers. K-9 Ivan was rushed to Valley Animal Hospital but the bullet had caused too much damage for Ivan to recover from. K-9 Ivan became only the third police K-9 killed in the line of duty for the Tucson Police Department.
"An incident like this demonstrates the extreme danger faced by the officers of the Tucson Police Department, both human and canine, on a daily basis. Ivan was a fairly new partner for Officer Chris Fenoglio, and he was demonstrating excellent promise to become an outstanding canine partner. Canine partners are more than just service animals to the family of their handlers, and to the members of the department. Through their bravery, loyalty, devotion and sense of duty, they endear themselves to us and hold a special place in our hearts. Ivan will be sorely missed by this agency and in my opinion by the community at large. If there is any solace to take from this tragedy, it is that Ivan gave his life honorably while doing what he was trained to do...protect the lives of the officers and citizens of this City, and help remove violent individuals from the streets of Tucson" said Chief of Police Roberto Villasenor in a statement issued to the media.
Police K-9's are used extensively throughout the world in all aspects of law enforcement. They are often asked to do things that police officer's cannot do without them. These amazing animals are capable of doing these jobs faster and safer than their human counter parts. They are willing to sacrifice everything just to hear their handler say "Good boy". K-9 Ivan's heroism directly saved the lives of the police officers that were with him and his sacrifice for the citizens and City of Tucson will never be forgotten. Ivan's Spot is a permanent thank you to Ivan and the Fenoglio family.
Good Boy Ivan!
For more information about the event contact Paul Sheldon at secretary@tpoa.org
SYMPHONIC WINDS CONCERTS IN THE PARK!
The Concert Under the Stars program is held at the outdoor László Veres Amphitheatre in Udall Park, Saturdays, May 18, 25, June 1, 8. While the Udall performances start at 7:00pm, their popularity means that concert goers should plan to arrive early to ensure a good spot on the grass, as well as a good parking spot. The concerts and parking are free.
For questions or more information on contact the Morris K. Udall Center at 791-4931.
SHUTTLE INFORMATION: Free shuttle beginning 5:30 p.m. from Big Lots Shopping Center to Udall Park.
TUCSON POPS ORCHESTRA - DEMEESTER OUTDOOR PERFORMANCE CENTER IN REID PARK!
The Concert “Music Under the Stars” program is held at the DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center in Reid Park with László Veres, Conductor and Music Director. Sundays, May 12, 19, 26 and June 2 with all performances starting at 7:00pm. Please keep in mind the popularity of the concerts which means that concert goers should plan to arrive early to ensure a good spot on the grass, as well as a good parking spot. The concerts and parking are free. SHUTTLE INFORMATION: Free shuttle beginning at 5 p.m. from Randolph Golf Course parking lot to the DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center in Reid Park.
For questions or more information on contact the Jim Velde at 837-8074.
NEW TO THE CLEMENTS CENTER...BIKE RENTALS AVAILABLE FOR THE NEW ATTURBURY WASH GREENWAY!
The City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department is now renting bicycles to use on the new Atturbury Wash Greenway Path. Bikes can be checked out at the William Clements Regional Center, 8155 E. Poinciana Dr Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bikes are available in adult and youth sizes and can be rented, weather permitting, for a fee of $2 per hour for pass holders, $5 per hour for non pass holders, and $10 per hour for a family. Youth 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Bike rentals include a helmet, which must be worn while riding. An equipment waiver must be completed at the time of check out and a valid drivers license will need to be held as collateral. Bikes are rented on a first come, first-served basis and are subject to availability.
This three-quarter mile multi-use path runs through Lincoln Park, linking the Fred Enke Golf Course, Pima College East Campus, Clements Center, the Children's Outdoor Performance Area, the new Lincoln Park four-field softball complex, Lower Lincoln Park, and the Michael Lyman Atturbury Wash Animal and Bird Sanctuary. A central plaza is located along the path at the junction that accesses the Children's Outdoor Performance Area and the four-field softball complex.
April is Bike Month, so get out and check out the new trail! For more information please contact Liz Baechler at 837-8103 or Liz.Baechler@Tucsonaz.gov
CATALINA PARK SPLASH PAD AND MARTY BIRDMAN SPLASH PAD REOPEN
The City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department welcomes the Arizona heat and invites you to cool off at one of our splash pads. Get out and enjoy the new Catalina Park splash pad at 900 North Fourth Avenue, in the Historic West University neighborhood. Amenities include not only a splash pad, but a new, covered playground and accessible walkways. The splash pad has been designed with a manual activation system to allow residents to turn on the water features as desired. You can also enjoy the new Marty Birdman Center/Balboa Heights Park splash pad, 2536 N. Castro Avenue, which opened in July 2012. Also at that facility is a Ramada, playground and basketball court. The parks will be open and splash pads will be operational from 7 a.m. to dusk.
For more information about the event contact Peg Weber at 520-837-8050 or peg.weber@tucsonaz.gov.
REID PARK ROSE GARDEN RECEIVES THE PACIFIC SOUTHWEST DISTRICT 2012 GARDEN OF THE YEAR AWARD
Tucson Parks and Recreation is proud to announce that its very own Reid Park Rose Garden has received the Pacific Southwest District 2012 Garden of the Year Award. The Pacific Southwest District of the American Rose Society presented the award in the fall 2012 which was submitted by the Rose Society of Tucson. The Rose Garden represents an on-going partnership with the Friends of The Reid Park Rose Garden who volunteer regularly to maintain the property. The garden originally opened in 1960 with 232 rose beds. Come check out the Rose Garden while it is in full bloom and see why it earned this award. More than 100 species of roses and 800 individual plants are housed in the Rose Garden. The Rose Garden is typically in full bloom in the spring during March and April and in the fall around October and November. The beautiful and colorful Rose Garden is centrally located in Reid Park, 22nd Street and Country Club Road, and has a large gazebo with six benches and electrical outlets. It is open from sunrise to 5 p.m. 365 days a year, except for special reserved events.
For information on reserving the site for weddings, birthdays and parties, can be obtained by calling 791-5930.
JUNIOR STAFF IN TRAINING - CALL NOW TO SET-UP AN INTERVIEW AND GET MORE INFORMATION!
The Junior Staff In Training Program is aimed at improving leadership skills, building self-esteem and preparation for future employment in the field of recreation. Participants are assigned mentors and are able to get hands-on experience working with a Tucson Parks & Recreation Youth Program for up to 30 hours per week. Please call Mike at 837-8137 for registration information. All Junior Staff In Training participants must interview prior to registration and must attend a mandatory orientation. The cost of the program is $70 for City Residents and $88 for Non-City Residents.
TUCSON PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AWARDS PRESENTATION
The 2013 Tucson Parks and Recreation Commission Awards presented by Mayor Rothschild. There are 12 recipients this year, below is a list of the individuals and organizations who will receive an award including a brief description of their accomplishments.
Steve Anderson
In honor of his eight years of public service as a Tucson Parks and Recreation Commissioner and continuous years of service as a driving force in the establishment of numerous trails and greenway systems throughout Pima County and the City of Tucson.
Susan Basford
In recognition of over 20 years of public service as Zoo Administrator and Education curator and for her vision in forming partnerships and demonstrating tireless energy in the creation of improved and new exhibits at Reid Park Zoo.
Madonna Felix
In gratitude for her generosity in becoming involved in fundraising that supports programs, including the free day at the Zoo and free train rides on the day of the annual Parks and Recreation Family Festival and trick or treat “stops” during the Zoo’s Howl-o-ween events.
Beth Hannon and Goodwill’s “Good Futures Program”
In appreciation of active community work in bringing young adults “second chance” opportunities via a partnership program in tree planting and maintenance with the Tucson Parks and Recreation Tree Steward staff.
Carl Stoeckel and “Be Positive Tucson”
In appreciation of six years of active volunteer recruitment and service of 20 to 100 hours each month towards the improvement of Greasewood Park’s appearance and programming opportunities for the public.
Richard Powlowski, Ann Andrews and “Friends of the Reid Park Rose Garden”
In appreciation for organizing and oversight of many volunteer work hours at the Reid Park Rose Garden, caring for over 1000 roses, and offering a very special place for all citizens to enjoy.
Joseph Robinson
In recognition of 50 years of public service in the area of Sports Management, umpiring, training of sports officials, and securing baseball and softball tournaments for the City of Tucson.
Tucson Audubon Society (Kendall Krosen)
In recognition of support and partnership in the “Atturbury Wash Restoration and Riparian Stewardship Project” and continued wildlife education programs for the public.
Tucson Trust for Historic Preservation (Rick Collins)
In recognition of the partnership with the Parks and Recreation Department in bringing Tucson’s history to life through living history programs, youth education, and pursuit of new exhibits to tell the story of the many layers of Tucson’s history.
Friends of Tucson’s Birthplace (Roger Pfeuffer)
In appreciation of the efforts to continue the construction and bring to the public the interpretation of the Mission Gardens portion of the heritage projects planned for the Westside of the Santa Cruz, the “birthplace” of Tucson.
University of Arizona Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity (Adam Helfenbein)
In acknowledgment of organizing over 1,017 volunteers and providing over 2,140 hours of volunteer service as an Adopt-a-Park partner at Himmel Park since 2011.
Atria Senior Living (Brian Martinez)
In appreciation of the business partnership, sponsoring special event lunches and contributions to the Udall Senior Program.
For more information about the event contact Sierra Davenport at 837-8032 or sierra.davenport@Tucsonaz.gov
YOUR COMMENTS COUNT - FRED ENKE GOLF COURSE PUBLIC MEETING
Public Meeting at William Clements Recreation Center, 8155 E. Poinciana Dr., on Wed., March 13th starting at 6pm. Join us and participate in a discussion of the future of Fred Enke Golf Course. Staff will provide a brief budget overview and history. The primary goal of this meeting is to invite the public to give feedback as to what they would like to see in terms of outdoor recreation activity for the future of Fred Enke Golf Course. An online survey can be found on the Parks and Recreation website for those that cannot attend.
TUCSON PARKS AND RECREATION EARNS NATIONAL ACCREDITATION
On October 26, 2010, the City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department was recognized for excellence in the field of parks and recreation management by becoming one of only ninety-seven agencies in the country currently holding national accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). This distinguished accomplishment was announced at the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) 2010 Congress and Exposition.
Additional Accreditation information
PARKS AND RECREATION DISCOUNT PROGRAM
Effective April 2011, the Parks and Recreation Discount Program has changed – offering a 50% discount for select programs and 25% discount for passes for qualifying participants on specific programs and passes. The program is in accordance with the Department’s Revenue and Pricing Policy adopted by Mayor and Council on January 5, 2010, and amended on February 15, 2011. The program benefits City of Tucson residents who provide documented proof of city residency, household size and household income.
2011 DISCOUNT-QUALIFYING PROGRAMS INCLUDE: Service Levels 1 & 2 programming
50% discount eligible-programs
• KIDCO (school-year/summer)
• Teen Programs (Jr. Leadership, IBC)
• Therapeutic Recreation
• Group Learn-to-Swim Lessons
25% discount eligible-passes
• Swimming Passes (multi use/seasonal)
• Recreation Center Memberships (Quarterly, Annual, Walking)
• Basic Senior Recreation (activity cards)
DISCOUNT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
• Class Registration Services: 900 South Randolph, 791-4877
• East District Office: 7575 E. Speedway Blvd., 791-5934
• Archer Center: 791-4355
• Adaptive Rec Center: 791-5643
• Armory Center: 791-4865
• Clements Center: 791-5787
• El Pueblo Center: 791-5155
• El Rio Center: 791-4683
• Freedom Center: 791-4969
• Northwest Center: 791-3247
• Quincie Douglas: 791-2507
• Randolph Center: 791-4560
• Santa Rosa Center: 791-4589
• Udall Center: 791-4931