From the Director's Desk
As we step into the second quarter of the year, Arizona is doing what Arizona does best—turning up the sunshine and inviting us all back outside. With longer days, bright blue skies and temperatures on the rise, our parks and recreation spaces become the heart of Pima County. Whether it’s an early morning walk, an evening game, or a weekend family outing, this is the season when our outdoor spaces truly come alive.
We’re especially excited to announce that our splash pads open this Saturday! Just in time for the warmer weather, these popular recreation spots offer families a fun and refreshing way to cool off. We know they’ll be filled with laughter, happy squeals, and maybe a few grown-ups pretending they’re just “supervising” while enjoying the mist!
Behind every green field, shaded ramada and sparkling splash pad is a dedicated Parks and Recreation team working hard to keep everything safe, clean and welcoming. From maintaining landscaping and irrigation systems to repairing playground equipment and planning community center programs, their commitment ensures our facilities are ready for you every single day.
As we head into a busy and sun-filled season, we invite you to get outside, stay active and take advantage of all the amenities our parks and recreation system has to offer. We’re proud to serve this community and grateful to share these beautiful spaces with you. Here’s to a vibrant and refreshing second quarter.
Victor Pereira
Director, Pima County Parks and Recreation
Employee of the Quarter
Congratulations to Hunter Tantlinger, Recreation Center Supervisor I, on being named Pima County Parks & Recreation’s Employee of the Quarter for January–March 2026.
Hunter has played an instrumental role in revitalizing the Catalina Community Center bringing new energy to programs, expanding opportunities for all age groups, and rebuilding strong community connections.
From launching high-demand fitness programs to strengthening youth, teen, and active adult offerings, his efforts have led to significant growth in participation and engagement.
Hunter is also known for his hands-on leadership style and willingness to support other centers, consistently stepping in to ensure programs and events run smoothly. His dedication, professionalism, and genuine commitment to the community have made a lasting impact and continue to elevate the overall experience for participants and staff alike!
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Free Swimming & Aquatics Season Kicks Off
 Pima County Parks & Recreation is making it easier than ever for residents to stay cool this summer by offering free recreational swimming at all County aquatic facilities! As of March 2, 2026, admission fees for open and lap swim have been waived, expanding access to pools across the community while continuing to offer popular programs like swim lessons, Junior Lifeguards, and Swim Team.
The summer season kicks off April 18 with the opening of splash pads at Brandi Fenton Memorial Park and Warden Family Splash Pad.
Pools begin opening May 23, with all locations open for Memorial Day on May 25 from 1–5 p.m.
Throughout the season, residents can look forward to a full lineup of aquatics programs, special events, and opportunities to get involved:
Key Dates
- April 28 (6:00 AM): Swim Team registration opens
- May 5 (6:00 AM): Junior Lifeguard registration opens
- May 7 (9:00 AM): Party rentals and private bookings begin
- May 12 (6:00 AM): Swim lesson registration (June sessions) opens
- May 14 (6:00 AM): Water aerobics registration (June sessions) opens
- June 7: Sunday Funday events begin
- June 16 & 18: July swim lessons and water aerobics registration opens
- July 4 (1–5 PM): All pools open for Independence Day
- July 25: Championship Swim Meet
- August 8 & 15: Pupapoolooza events (Kino & Picture Rocks Pools)
- September 7: Seasonal pools close for the summer
Residents are encouraged to register early, as many programs fill quickly. With free pool access and a variety of activities available, it’s shaping up to be a fun and accessible summer across Pima County.
Shooting Sports Volunteer Recognition
 Pima County Parks & Recreation’s Shooting Sports program recently recognized its volunteers at the annual Recognition Banquet, celebrating their dedication and support throughout the year.
In 2025, 81 volunteers contributed 8,384 hours of service to the program. Of those, 42 volunteers logged more than 45 hours, 26 exceeded 120 hours, and 6 contributed more than 360 hours reflecting an exceptional level of commitment to public service and safety.
At an estimated value of $25 per hour for rangemaster support, volunteer contributions equate to approximately $210,000 in service value to Pima County.
This year’s award recipients included Kathy Quick (Volunteer of the Year), Randy Carsten (Best Customer Service), Roger Bingham (Jack Moreland Award), Daniel O'Neil (Rookie of the Year), Brian Han (Hard Charger), Richard Marciari (John Burden Award), and Dan Donegan (Instructor of the Year), honoring outstanding dedication within the Shooting Sports community.
100 Years of Burklows at Pima County
From left: Katelyn, Tom, Bill, Norma, Steve, and Matt Burklow
For the Burklow family, service to Pima County isn’t just a job, it’s a legacy spanning three generations and more than 100 years of combined service.
What began in 1975 with Bill Burklow joining Parks & Recreation grew into a family tradition. Over the decades, Bill, his wife Norma, their sons, and now grandchildren have contributed across multiple County departments, helping shape parks, programs, and services throughout the community.
Today, Tom Burklow serves as Recreation Division Manager, continuing the family’s deep connection to Parks & Recreation. We were fortunate to capture a meaningful family photo of Tom and his family's visit to Pima Prickly Park that reflects both their personal and professional ties to the spaces they’ve helped support.
From maintaining park facilities to leading programs and building community connections, the Burklow family’s impact can be seen across Pima County!
Ted Walker Youth Day a Success
 Pima County Parks & Recreation once again helped bring learning to life at the annual Ted Walker Youth Day, welcoming students from across the region for a day of interactive, outdoor education at Old Tucson Studios.
This year’s event hosted 1,487 students, along with 74 teachers and 83 chaperones, offering a unique opportunity for students to explore history, science, and the natural world through hands-on exhibits and engaging presentations.
Ted Walker Youth Day continues to be one of Parks & Recreation’s signature educational events, connecting thousands of young learners each year with memorable experiences outside the classroom in a fun, immersive environment.
Making Waves with Lifeguard Hiring
As Parks & Recreation prepares for a busy summer season, our personnel team is streamlining the hiring process to make it easier and faster than ever to bring new lifeguards on board.
In late February, the HR team launched a new group hiring model, successfully onboarding 14 lifeguards in a single event. This streamlined approach replaces the traditional one-on-one process with a more efficient format designed to quickly prepare staff for the aquatics season.
During the event, candidates completed all required steps including paperwork, onboarding, and fingerprinting in one session. By combining everything into a single experience, the process reduces wait times, eliminates multiple appointments, and gets lifeguards pool-ready sooner.
The new model not only improves efficiency but also strengthens the department’s ability to meet seasonal staffing needs ensuring pools are fully staffed and ready for a fun, safe summer.
Following the success of this rollout, Parks & Recreation plans to continue using this innovative hiring approach for future lifeguard recruitment.
Rediscovering Leisure Times
A look back at the original Leisure Times newsletter from March 1987 highlights the dedication of Meadowbrook Park in northwest Tucson, a new neighborhood park created through a unique partnership between Pima County and Estes Homes. The park was designed as an innovative reuse of a detention basin, transforming what could have been a standard drainage channel into a functional public space featuring turf, a ballfield, picnic areas, and restrooms.
The dedication ceremony brought together community members, dignitaries, and local organizations for a festive celebration complete with music, clowns, food, and family activities. Then-Director Gene Laos emphasized the park as an example of successful public–private collaboration and encouraged residents to take ownership in caring for and protecting their neighborhood park.
Meadowbrook was envisioned not only as a recreational amenity, but also as a model for future development, showcasing how thoughtful design can improve flood control while enhancing community quality of life.
Community Center Spotlight: Catalina
Pictured is Employee of the Quarter, Catalina Community Center Supervisor I Hunter Tantlinger, with after-school participants, highlighting the daily connections and positive impact at Catalina Community Center.
Catalina Community Center
16562 N. Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85739
(520) 825-9011 | Cell: (520) 561-2113
Monday – Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Nestled in the heart of Catalina, this community center is a vibrant hub where families, youth, and older adults come together to stay active, learn new skills, and build lasting connections. From youth programming to active adult fitness, Catalina Community Center offers something for everyone.
Summer Youth Recreation 2026
“Out of This World” Summer Fun
For children who completed Kindergarten–5th grade (2025/2026 school year), this summer program offers structured recreation, enrichment, and active play.
Sessions:
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June 1–25, 2026
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June 29–July 23, 2026
Hours: Mon–Thu | 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (Closed Fridays)
Parent Orientation Required:
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May 14, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
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May 30, 2026 @ 9:30 a.m.
Fees:
Space is limited | Includes $15 activity fee
Registration opens 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026 for both Sessions 1 and 2
Teen Summer Leadership 2026
Lead, Learn, and Level Up This Summer
A hands-on leadership program for youth completing 6th–9th grade (2025/2026 school year) focused on teamwork, skill-building, and supporting summer youth programs.
Participants will assist staff, build leadership skills, and engage in recreational activities in a fun, structured environment.
Sessions:
- June 1–25, 2026
- June 29–July 23, 2026
Hours: Mon–Thu | 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (Closed Fridays)
Orientation Required:
- May 14, 2026 @ 7:00 p.m.
- May 30, 2026 @ 10:30 a.m.
Fee:
- $50/session (includes $15 activity fee)
Registration opens April 23, 2026 @ 6:00 a.m.
Space is limited
Registration opens 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026 for both Sessions 1 and 2
Next Level Teen Program
A year-round recreation program for middle school youth focused on creativity, activity, and connection.
Participants enjoy sports, arts & crafts, and leadership development in a safe, supportive environment.
Cost: $30 for 3 months
Online registration required
Active Adults
Game Day
Tuesdays & Thursdays | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Mahjongg, Scrabble, cards, and more in a social setting.
50Fit Wellness Program (55+)
Mon/Wed/Fri | 10:15–11:15 a.m.
$27 | Register online
Focus on strength, balance, and flexibility with seated and standing options.
- Ukulele Song Circle (Fridays) — bring your instrument and join the fun
- Computer Lab Access — available for public use with reservations
Catalina Community Center brings together youth, teens, and adults through programs that build connection, confidence, and community pride year-round.
Take Pima County’s Loop Survey
If you're a user of the Chuck Huckelberry Loop, Pima County wants to hear from you! Please take our short survey and help shape the future of the County's award-winning trail. Whether you use the path occasionally or every day, your responses will help us make our beloved Loop even better.
Take the survey here: https://engage.zencity.io/engagepimacounty/en-US/engagements/86138da1-293b-41f4-af38-991fc679ac7f?utm_medium=social
Help Shape Pima County’s Transportation Future
 Department of Transporation is inviting residents to share their voice as it develops a long-range, 30-year transportation plan. This is your opportunity to help guide how our community moves, connects, and grows for decades to come.
Take the survey here: https://movingpima.com/
WE'RE HIRING!
Next Issue: July 15, 2026
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