SCRPA Spring 2013

SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation & Parks ASSOCIATION

Mount Pleasant

Unified Swim Program Happy 43rd Birthday

Camp Arc! Tiny Tots Olympics

Spring 2013

IllumInatIng Generations

You’re not just buying lights. You’re buying an affordable system that reduces energy and maintenance costs year after year. That means while decreasing wasted energy, you’ll save money and help protect the environment for his future.

To learn more visit: www.musco.com/generations

For Your Budget For The Environment ©2013 Musco Sports Lighting, LLC · ADSC13-1

Local area representative: Barry Jones 800/825-6030 (toll free) 803/782-5251 (local) 803/260-1148 (mobile) barry.jones@musco.com

He’ll soon need new playground equipment. Stay top of mind.

For as little as

SOUTH CAROLINA MAGAZINE HELPS YOU REACH… • Over 1,000 South Carolina Recreation & Park Association members: recreation managers, arts coordinators, grounds keepers, senior activity programmers, event planners, facility managers, site planners, parks maintenance, golf course managers, sports organizations.

$225 per issue, SCRPA magazine gets you in front

• Over 100 SCRPA business partner members and other state park and recreation associations.

of key recreation

• Over 500 South Carolina Society of Association Executives (SCSAE) - meeting/event planners, communication managers, convention bureaus, hotels, and sports leagues (Summer issue).

& park decision makers. No

• Online magazine readers via digital edition.

other form of advertising gets you so targeted.

Download advertising information, at www.pernsteiner.com/SCRPAadvertising2013.pdf or call Todd Pernsteiner at 877-694-1999.

Complete Park and Playground Solutions More than ever, children need play. Play promotes an active, healthy lifestyle and helps develop cognitive skills that last a lifetime. Cunningham Recreation works closely with communities and organizations to select and install the perfect playground for your needs, and to ensure the maximum play value for your budget.

That’s our commitment to you, and our commitment to play.

800.438.2780 cunninghamrec.com

4 SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks • www.scrpa.org

SOUTH CAROLINA

TABLE OF CONTENTS Improve Your Health, Build Confidence, Explore Opportunity..... 6

Recreation & Parks Association

Association Report............................................................................. 7

2012 Board of Directors

Partnerships Create Success at New Charleston Facility............... 9

Executive Committee

North Myrtle Beach Runs Like A Diva..............................................12

President: Mark Sexton (p) 803-329-877 (f) 329-8786 msexton@cityofrockhill.com

Past President: Joe Ross (p) 843-389-27856 (f) 667-0934 jross@florenceco.org

President Elect: Don Shuman (p) 864-676-2180 (f) 288-6499 don@gcrd.org

Central VP: David Linder (p) 803-329-5672 (f) 329-5677 dlinder@cityofrockhill.com

Vice President: Jeff Metz Eastern VP: Callie Wise (p) 843-280-5605 (p) 803-642-7652 (f) 293-2051 cjwise@nmb.us jmetz@cityofaikensc.gov Secretary: Jessica Campbell (p) 803-642-7648 jcampbell@cityofaikensc.gov

Southern VP: Jason Woodrum (p) 843-884-0832 (f) 884-0254 jwoodrum@CCPRC.com

Treasurer: Eric Stewart Western VP: Chris Barrineau (p) 864-862-4675 (p) 864-343-6353 chris.barrineau@fountaininn.org estewart@ccprc.com

Happy 43rd Birthday Camp Arc...................................................... 10 Trash Turns to Gold............................................................................14 Tiny Tots Olympics.............................................................................16 Mount Pleasant Double Dutch Program........................................ 18 Mount Pleasant Unified Swim Program...........................................19

ADVERTISER INDEX Churchich Recreation and Design....................................................19 Cunningham Recreation..................................................................... 4 General Recreation............................................... Inside Front Cover Musco................................................................................................... 3 Pernsteiner........................................................................................... 7 Playgrounds of the Carolinas........................................................... 18 Playworld Preferred...........................................................Back Cover

Branches CBM Branch: Scott Wilhide (p) 803-767-0393 swilhide@earthlink.net

RAP Branch: Leslie Reeves (p) 803-359-9961 (f) 359-9092 lesley@lcrac.com

ELM Branch: Tom O’Rourke (p) 843-762-2172 (f) 762-2683 torourke@ccprc.com

SCAP Branch: Johnny Davis (p) 843-784-5136 (f) 784-5172 rec_director@hargray.com

EMB: Shaniqua Simmons (p) 843-740-8505 (f) 745-1057 ssimmons@northcharleston.org

Student Branch: Pam Davis (p) 864-467-8008 pdavis@greenvillesc.gov

PRM Branch: Jon Woodsby (p) 864-595-5356 (f) 593-5363 jon.woodsby@spartanburgparks.org

Fountain Inn Holds Special Events for Piedmont Skills.................. 8

R.J. Thomas........................................................................................15 The Parking Place................................................................................ 5 Wood + Partners................................................................................. 8 Thank you to our advertisers for your help in supporting SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks magazine. We kindly ask members to please support our advertisers. Interested in advertising? Contact Todd Pernsteiner at 877-694-1999 or info@pernsteiner.com.

Wellness Branch: Tripp Clark (p) 803-359-3658 tclark@lcrac.com

SCRPA EXECUTIVE STAFF Executive Director: James E. Headley jim@scrpa.org

Membership Services Coordinator: Melissa Williams melissa@scrpa.org

SCRPA Marketing Committee Laurie Helms, City of Rock Hill Sarah Reynolds, Charleston County PRC Chris Pounder, Charleston County PRC P.O. Box 1046 • Lexington, SC 29071-1046 (p) 803-808-7753 (f) 803-808-7754 www.scrpa.org, info@scrpa.org

THE

Your Source For Parking and Traffic Safety Supplies

arking lace, Inc. Graham, N.C. 27253 (336) 376-9033 1-800-716-7239 Fax: (336) 376-9950

Supplier of cable protectors, recycled rubber car stops, speed bumps, speed humps, bollard covers, clearance bars, delineator post, safety cans, cabinets and other traffic and safety supplies. www.theparkingplaceinc.com info@theparkingplaceinc.com

Spring 2013 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 5

IMPROVE your health

BUILD confidence EXPLORE Opportunity Coastal Carolina Adaptive Sports and Recreation is Improving the quality of life for people with physical and visual disabilities.

By Bonnie Fitz, Horry County

Imagine you, your family member, or friend suffers mobility impairment due to an accident, injury or illness. Or maybe you do not have to imagine because this is already a reality for you. Now imagine there is an organization there to help you. One to help build confidence, self-esteem, and to introduce you to new opportunities through sports and recreation (which improve your health, strength and well-being). Well, there is such an organization in our area – Horry County.

Coastal Carolina Adaptive Sports and Recreation (formerly Sports Mobility Network) was created two years ago with the vision to improve the quality of life by providing sports and recreational activities for persons with physical and visual disabilities. This group was created not just to help those with disabilities, but also to include their families and their immediate network of support persons.

This organization was founded by people who have a passion for helping others as well as some who have personally been impacted by illness and/or injury.

One of the founders suffered a C5 spinal cord injury in 1995 from a terrible car accident. Mike Warner was able to work through his rehabilitation by drawing

upon his background in soccer. Now, among other sports he is involved in, Mike rides a tandem bike with his wife as an adaptation to a new lifestyle.

Another founder of the organization is Anthony Rabon. Anthony was an avid basketball player prior to an accident where he lost a leg. Anthony was introduced to the organized sport of wheel chair basketball and he has been playing competitively for 13 years and traveling the country for tournaments. Not only is Anthony a great basketball player, but he has also opened up his world of opportunities with other sports and is able to enjoy so much with his family through this organization.

This organization has been a great partnership of agencies. This organization has had a fabulous partnership with The

6 SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks • www.scrpa.org

Above: One of Coastal Carolina Adaptive Sports and Recreation founders, Mike Warner, rides a tandem bike with his wife as an adaptation to a new lifestyle.

North Myrtle Beach Aquatic and Fitness Center as well as the Horry County Parks and Recreation Department. The City of Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation has been instrumental in providing field usage as well. With the support from these agencies, as well as other businesses throughout our area, CCASR is able to offer adaptive styles of sports such as basketball, archery, field events, bowling, bocce and more. More exciting, SMN/ CCASR has also partnered with the Paralympic sports movement and has become the 1st Paralympic sports club in South Carolina.

For more information visit their website at www.coastalcarolinaadaptivesports. org, find them on Facebook, or contact Melinda Chappell-President directly at (843) 997-7688.

by Jim Headley and Mark Sexton

The Association Report

Welcome to the first of four quarterly issues of the SCRPA Magazine. Last year we were able to increase publication to four times per year without any negative influence on the budget. Therefore, the board feels strongly about reaching out to the membership through various means of communication, including the old fashioned way – four-color hard copy through snailmail. This coupled with our bi-monthly newsletters and bi-weekly snapshots will assist the Association in maintaining better communication lines to all of you.

It has been an extremely busy year. The board has been hard at work with its goal to make education a priority for the membership. The Western and Central Districts, Recreational Arts and Programming Branch, Parks and Resource Management Branch, and Executive Level Management Branch have all had successful educational opportunities for their respective members. Also, the South Carolina Athletic Programs Branch (SCAP) has held its branch basketball tournaments and the Eastern and Southern Districts have had their regularly scheduled meetings. Needless to say, it has been a very busy and productive first quarter for our Association.

As you know, we have reached out to the membership through a satisfaction survey that we do every three years. Hopefully, each of you took the time to fill out the survey to let us know how we are doing. Also, it will assist the Association in charting its immediate future. The

None of this could be accomplished without the dedication of YOU – the membership of the Association.

We greatly appreciate everyone’s hard work and look forward to continual successes. Thanks to each of you, not only for what you do for SCRPA but for our professional as well. As always, never hesitate to contact the Association office or a board member if you should need anything.

Mark Sexton, President Jim Headley, Executive Director

Reaching full potential.

One client at a time.

Parks &tion Recrea

S in the Park.

Experience EVENT

order by date. are listed in events. Activities advance registration. for these one-day activities requiring Please join us is available for Online registration

20th Annual

Kiwanis Kite

Tennis Block

Fly

your lawn lunch, bring flight.

Pack a picnic the kites take chairs and watch and fly it with kite Or, bring your Kite Society. the Minnesota members of p.m.

19, Noon - 4 Ave. S. Saturday, April Park, 3400 Louisiana Louisiana Oaks

INSIDE…

Free

no registration

Earth Day and

required

Arbor Day Open

House

Park & Run

Louis Park the as you celebrate Aquatic Park ways with a live raptor to learn simple Get face to face with local organizations Make a difference by Earth. Visit planet. musical impact on our to make a big litter. The interactive or picking up planting trees will be performing. with Rachael” stick around group “Kidtime a lunch and p.m. provided. Bring Truth” at 12:30 Refreshments of “An Inconvenient This event is cofor a showing on page __.

See movie descriptionManagement.

by WasteHills sponsored noon 22 Westwood Ave. 26, 10 a.m. AprilCenter Nature Saturday, 8300 W. Franklin Nature Center, Westwood Hills required no registration Free

St. ages All18

Mother’s Day

Open House

SOUTH CAROLINA

is filled Activity #____ when program Registration deadline:

.org www.stlouispark

Fun Runs

youth All ages y run or try the for a 5K family-friendl along paved city trails Come join us travel le.” Both courses at the Veterans’ Memorial “Almost-a-Mi before finishing support the St. and around lakes All proceeds a in Wolfe Park.

Registrants receive Amphitheater Scholarship Fund. generously sponsored is Louis Park Youth & bag. Park & Run Center, Excelsior T-shirt and goodie Heart and Vascular Bank.

Independent

by Park Nicollet Club and Citizens Grand, Sam’s

by a paid adult) must be accompanied and plant All ages (children the nature center plants Bring her to her on a spring Celebrate Mom! home. Lead wildflowers. flowers to take a pot 36 ofThe Rec in search of beautiful spring Come and hunt world.

Center scavenger is out of this style. a sundae that is open-house Treat her to special day. Program enjoy Mom’s p.m.

11, 1 p.m. - 4 Sunday, May W. Franklin Ave. Center, 8300 Westwood Nature (non-resident) (resident) / $5 $4 per person

recreation &

2008 APRIL-AUGUST

Party

a variety Ages 6 and up Rotate through benefits of tennis. from the U.S. Tennis Experience the run by a professional or use one of ours. of fun lessons racquet Bring your own Association. will be awarded.

Door prizes – 1 p.m.

17, 11:30 a.m.

Ave. S. Saturday, May courts, 3110 Xylon Aquila tennis Activity # ____ Free May 12 Registration deadline:

All ages

18 Sunday, May at 8 a.m.

Registration begins $5 per person Activity # ____ Almost-a-Mile Starts at 9 a.m. of race / $18 on day $15 in advance ____ 5K Activity # at 9:15 a.m.

5K run starts Monterey Drive race day Wolfe Park, 3700 8:45 a.m. on Registration deadline:

Experience N RECREATIO in the Park.

1 uispark.org

• www.stlo

• Marketing & brand design

City of Charl eston Dedicated : making recre to ation available to all

Events

Pernsteiner specializes in marketing, graphic design and event planning for communities and nonprofits. We offer one-to-one attention that few others can.

Summer 2012

(952) 924-2540

ParkS aSSociation

for Special

s Special Event

The Legislative Committee has produced and distributed our bi-annual legislative platform. We have also been continually monitoring legislation at the State House as well as in Washington, D.C. as it pertains to our profession. We have submitted suggested changes to SC Department of Health and Environmental Control on regulations that affect us that are unneeded or over-burdening as they relate to our profession. The committee has worked with the General Assembly to ensure that municipal, county, and the state department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism are eligible for reduced criminal background checks for all volunteers. Plus, we’re looking hard to find ways to shore up the depleting PARD funds.

board and staff rely on this survey to help continue the programs you ask for and tweak the items you feel need improvement.

Dillon Wellness center: provid ing opportunities to enjoy healthy and active lifestyles

• Custom publications & advertising • Event planning & marketing • Sponsorship programs • Programming brochures

www.pernsteiner.com / (952) 841-1111 (formerly Pernsteiner Creative Group)

Spring 2013 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 7

Fountain Inn

holds Special Events for Piedmont Skills

By Diane Turner, City of Fountain Inn

The partnership between the Parks and Recreation Each year “The consumers Department and Piedmont Skills is going into its the Fountain 11th year. “The consumers always look forward to Inn Parks and always look these events,” says Jackie Shuler, program manager Recreation forward to for Piedmont Skills Fountain Inn. “Something they Department these events... start counting down the days for,” Shuler added. It’s organizes 3 events for the Something they a great time for the clients to get out and socialize and be pampered for a little while. Family and participants of start counting caretakers are invited to come out and enjoy this the Greenville time as well. The Fountain Inn Activities Center County Christmas with Santa Event down the Senior Adults provide most of the volunteer manDisabilities days for.” hours to make each event happen.

Piedmont Skills of Fountain Inn. This is a day work program for Special Needs Adults who live The first event of the year is the Prom. There is a Jackie Shuler in the community. The Piedmont Skills program different theme each year and it is typically what offers Special Needs Adults an opportunity to work, earn you would think of when you think of your high school prom. a paycheck, socialize, learn new skills and become more There is music, food, dancing, photographs and fun all involved in the community. around. The 2012 Prom was a 1950s theme. It was a great night and we are already making plans for the 2013 “Come One, Come All” Circus Prom.

Historic 4th Ward Park Featured in Landscape Architect magazine

Punt, Pass and Kick is our second event and takes the consumers and their caregivers outside for field games. We hold this in the fall each year and the Hillcrest High School football team and cheerleaders are always great to come out and encourage those participating.

Christmas with Santa closes out the year. It’s just not Christmas until you see Ricky run and hug Santa when he comes into the room. The joy on each face makes this event a must on the calendar. The room is decorated for Christmas, a great meal is provided, Christmas music is playing in the background and Santa makes a special appearance to give each person a present.

Creating Great Places! www.WoodandPartners.com

n

843-681-6618

Park Planning & Design n Recreational Needs Assessment Greenways & Trails n Sports Complexes What can we create for your community?

Atlanta Historic 4th Ward Park • 2012 GA ASLA Merit Award • 2012 ARC Development of Excellence Award • ASCE National Merit Award

8 SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks • www.scrpa.org

The clients of the Piedmont Skills Program are an important part of our community. The Fountain Inn Parks and Recreation Department considers it a joy and privilege to provide them with recreation activities throughout the year. These special events are highlights for the Parks and Recreation staff and senior adult volunteers. The relationships that have been built between the clients, staff and volunteers have become very special.

Partnerships Create Success at New City of Charleston Facility A few of R3 Inc’s successful programs at Shaw are: ■■

■■

■■

By Karen Williams

S

haw Community Center, formerly known as the Boys & Girls Club, is the newest addition to the City of Charleston Recreation Department. It is located on the east side of downtown Charleston in a very low income area. The need for a safe and secure place for children and teens to come after school is on the rise; after school programs provide a safe, positive and healthy environment, while providing opportunities to help young people develop into successful adults. America is currently failing its children; more than 30 percent of young people don’t graduate high school. This is not just a problem for parents or schools it is a societal problem that affects our nation as a whole. That is why after school programs are critical to youth and their families.

Shaw Community Center has come a long way in the past few months to do its part in serving the whole community. Shaw’s goal is to inspire the students to succeed in life by offering homework help, programs that help develop fitness, a positive use of leisure time, reduction of stress, appreciation for the environment and social and interpersonal skills. The lifeline of our successful afterschool programs are comprised of non-profit partners, a great team of homework helpers, college students, community volunteers, and a caring staff.

There are a number of non-profits that contribute their time and resources to the success of our center. R3 Inc and Carolina Studios are daily contributors to Shaw. R3 Inc. is a non-profit whose goal is to help our youth establish positive foundational principals and healthy community relationships while successfully developing a purpose driven life.

A financial class in which teens are taught basic principles on earning and saving money.

H.I.T. The Books, an afterschool homework assistance and tutoring program that focuses on increasing test scores, and enhancing writing and public speaking skills.

H.O.O.K.S. (Hope for Overcoming Obstacles to Keep Striving for Success) is a Boxing/Fitness program by R3 Inc. designed to encourage teens to learn new fun-filled exercises, basic nutrition and general fitness principles. In addition, the program teaches discipline, fosters teamwork, and instills character, focus, and strategic-thinking, all of which are critical elements in supporting academic and personal success. The program promotes positive resolutions to conflict and contributes to violence prevention in the schools and community.

Carolina Studios has been at Shaw since 2007 and are a large draw to the facility.

Their mission is “to provide students a safe environment that fosters creativity, educational, and career-focused initiatives through music technology and media arts”. They provide a multi-media experience starting with writing songs and making beats, followed by learning how to record with a microphone, and ultimately making a CD, complete with artwork, and producing videos. Students also have the opportunity to return to add more vocals, add instruments, replace old vocal tracks, or just start fresh with a new song.

At Shaw we predominantly focus on ages 5-17.

However, as we continue to move forward and offer successful programs, we hope to continue to build a strong community of all ages through our programs and by utilizing our volunteers and our non-profit partners.

View projects and our complete line of outdoor solutions at churchichrecreation.com.

Request our new brochure featuring playground equipment, shelters, park furniture, accessories and more.

Playground Innovation Miracle Recreation Equipment

South Carolina’s premiere provider of playground innovation.

Recreation & Design.

AChurchich partner to plan, design, install and service your project. www.churchichrecreation.com

CRD201A1_SCAD_Q2_V01.indd 1

4/27/2012 11:10:03 AM

Spring 2013 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 9

Happy

43 rd Birthday Camp Arc! Story and Photos by wendy Waddle, City of Rock Hill

In 1970, a group of concerned citizens, parents and members of local civic clubs decided to organize a summer camp for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Thanks to many volunteers, camp counselors and valuable partnerships throughout the years, a one week residential camp evolved into the Therapeutic Recreation Division of Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism. It continues to grow and thrive today.

Camp Arc served 42 individuals that first year and today, Rock Hill PRT serves over 3,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities in Camp Arc, sports, visual and performing art programs throughout the year.

During the 1970s Camp Arc was organized and staffed by the volunteer based Camp Arc Council which raised the funds and established partnerships with the local Disabilities and Special Needs Board, civic clubs and Rock Hill PRT. In 1980, Camp Arc Council provided half of the funding needed to hire a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist who would work for Rock Hill PRT and who would develop year round programming for individuals with intellectual disabilities. In 2000, due to loss of funding from the York County Disabilities and Special Needs Board, Camp Arc was fully integrated into the Therapeutic Division and is now supported through its budget and grants.

Camp Arc is now reverse mainstreamed. It allows a small percentage of campers without a disability to attend the youth

10 SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks • www.scrpa.org

sessions of day camp, while keeping in the majority those campers who have special needs. Camp Arc continues to thrive and is one of Rock Hill PRT’s most successful programs and we are proud of its history.

In addition to camp, the therapeutic programs offered are innovative and exciting and the department continues to maintain valuable partnerships with the community. Rock Hill PRT’s partnership with Area Eleven Special Olympics provides year round sports training in more than 10 different Special

Olympics sports. The Therapeutic Division works with the local school district and communicates with teachers to provide sports and art programs for the selfcontained special education classrooms.

Many of the local civic clubs still support Camp Arc by providing one of the evening meals during our residential camp session.

The therapeutic programs also offer art programs to some of our exceptionally talented individuals who are intellectually disabled. The work of very talented artists is showcased at an annual Tap Into

the Arts show where they display their photography, hand built pottery pieces, watercolor paintings and more.

The performing arts have been represented by our Praise Dance team, adult choir and handbell classes.

Rock Hill PRT is proud to have a Therapeutic Division that is dedicated to providing leisure services and innovative programs to meet the needs of the citizens of Rock Hill who have intellectual disabilities. We look forward to many more years full of new experiences and ideas.

Spring 2013 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 11

By Callie Wise, North Myrtle Beach

12 South Carolina Recreation and Parks • www.scrpa.org

The most fun and glam women’s half marathon series in the nation will be held April 28, 2013 in North Myrtle Beach. To date, close to 4,000 women have signed up to run in North Myrtle Beach’s 2nd Annual Divas Half Marathon and 5K race. The Divas Half Marathon Series is held annually in some of the country’s best vacation destinations: Honolulu, HI; Long Island, NY; San Juan, PR; San Francisco, CA; and now, North Myrtle Beach, SC. The Divas Half Marathon is all about girl power.

It embraces a full weekend experience that caters specifically to women. All Divas Half Marathon finishers receive a very large, “blinged out” medal fit for a Diva. It also spins and includes a spot for one’s photo. It’s a memorable medal to commemorate a unique experience. Flowers and champagne also await each participant at the finish line. All participants can enjoy a live post-race party.

As the Divas Half Marathon series has developed, participants have learned to throw on boas, tiaras, necklaces and other adornments for their runs. The fun adornments provide for an instant pick-me-up, get spectators cheering, and guarantee that perfect photo when crossing finish line. Bands, cheerleaders, dance groups, and more will be positioned along the race route to help keep the runners enthused.

Divas love to be adored, which means they love seeing spectators and cheerleaders everywhere along the course. Being a spectator and a cheerleader for your favorite Diva runner (or all runners if you don’t have a favorite) is a great way for anyone, even men, to be part of this event. And, yes, spectators may also dress to impress. The weekend event also includes a two day Health & Fitness Boutique.

The inaugural Divas Half Marathon and 5K Race was held May 20, 2012 in North Myrtle Beach. A sold out crowd of 4,400 women from 47 states participated.

Former Olympic track and field star Zola Pieterse, also known by her maiden name of Zola Budd, won the half marathon. The 2013 Divas Half Marathon and 5K race will be held on April 28, 2013.

This event had a direct economic impact of $4,368,601 and an indirect economic impact of $6,552,901 for the City of North Myrtle Beach. Also, the Sports Travel Magazine named the Divas Half Marathon and 5K Series “Best New Series” at the 2012 Teams Conference in Detroit, Michigan.

For more information about the Divas Half Marathon and 5K race visit www.runlikeadiva.com.

Spring 2013 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 13

By Sarah Reynolds, Charleston County

As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. At the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC), patrons are converting what used to be trash into a valuable asset to their park system and future patrons – through composting.

Composting efforts that were introduced last year at the county’s largest waterpark, Whirlin’ Waters in North Charleston, will expand to Splash Island Waterpark in Mount Pleasant and Splash Zone Waterpark on James Island this summer.

Part of a highly successful pilot program in 2012, over 14,000 pounds of waste from Whirlin’ Waters’ main concession stand were collected and composted. The first step was for CCPRC to partner with experts at Charleston County Environmental Management (CCEM). CCEM helped CCPRC to create a plan, contact vendors for picking up compostables, and integrate composting into the agency’s existing recycling program.

14 South Carolina Recreation and Parks • www.scrpa.org

Before opening for the season, nearly all of Whirlin’ Waters’ serving ware – including straws, cups, forks and plates, was replaced with compostable materials. Then, the summer’s 156,000 park visitors placed nearly all of their waste into specificallymarked bins. These items were collected and taken to a composting site by local partner Food Waste Disposal, LLC, where the waste will eventually break down.

Composting is important because it reduces the amount of waste going into the landfill. Not only does it lengthen the landfill’s “lifespan,” it helps the

environment by reclaiming trash and breaking it down into a nutrient-rich additive for soil. A portion of this wonderful “black gold” product is now being used to naturally fertilize entrance, waterpark and park center landscapes.

This summer, CCPRC’s composting expansion will expose the program to an estimated 130,000 more patrons at Splash Island and Splash Zone Waterparks, allowing them the opportunity to do their part.

Waterparks are not the only CCPRC facilities where discarded items are collected - event planners also recently introduced this stewardship practice to the park system’s festivals. At the 2012 Lowcountry Cajun Festival on James Island, 95% of the event’s waste was diverted from landfills, with 540 pounds recycled and 1800 pounds composted.

Composting is one of many ways in which CCPRC strives to institute environmental stewardship programs throughout the park system. Patrons are also invited to sign the agency’s “Stewardship Pledge,” which encourages following environmentally friendly measures while in the parks.

By converting trash into an organic material, visitors to Charleston County Parks are able to easily make a difference in their park system. Future park patrons will one day rest in the shade of trees that the previous generation nurtured through composting.

Spring 2013 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 15

by robin cooper, city of charleston

arthur w. christopher community center presents

tiny tots

Olympics Tiny Tots Olympics is designed to introduce tots to recreation and encourage future recreational involvement. This event challenges physical and mental abilities while promoting family involvement through cooperation and participation via score keeping. Tiny Tots Olympics “opens the eyes” of parents as they witness their tot’s physical and mental ability expand without resistance.

For tots, this event “opens the eyes,” to new and exciting adventures while enhancing self-esteem as it promotes defeating the “I can’t do it” mentality. This day, also referred to as Little Champions Day, is full of fun and excitement. The Olympic event lasts for approximately four hours, giving each tot the change to showcase and/or enhance their new talent and/or ability. Tiny Tots

16 South Carolina Recreation and Parks • www.scrpa.org

Olympics is a miniature showcase of indoor and outdoor Olympic events that are modified to capture the tot’s interest and enhance their enjoyment; showcases include Olympic events such as hurdles, yard dashes, javelin, sling shot, and the list goes on. Each parent is the designated trainer/coach of their Olympian and an AWCCC’s staff member is the event site manager for each event. Managers are present

to be sure each Olympian has the greatest experience at their event location and each trainer is present to cheer on and encourage their Olympian’s completion while they are asked to keep an honest record of scores for their Olympian.

Parents are given an official Tiny Tots Olympics clipboard, judge’s score sheet and an event definition sheet which gives a brief description of how the event is played and scored.

Honest record keeping is promoted throughout the entire event as the score sheets give coaches the chance to review their tot’s strengths and weaknesses. As well, the AWCCC staff promotes the “All participants are winners” slogan as completion and participation is encourage. Before the events are opened, a brief meeting is held for coaches and managers reminding them that the tots are not competing against one another

but completing events for parental evaluation, enjoyment, exposure, socialization, and physical activity.

For this event tots are given a T-shirt, a medal, and are honored as Olympians under the American flag as the Star Spangled Banner is played, cameras flash and parents, friends, and family members look on to a sneak peak of what the future may hold as dreams do come true.

Spring 2013 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 17

Mount Pleasant Recreation Department’s

Double

DutcH PRogram

by Shelli Davis, Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant Recreation Department is proud of its Double Dutch program and the impact it has on our community. Florine Russell, Recreation Specialist, and her assistant take their jump ropes and hit area community schools every afternoon. In addition to offering Double Dutch in these after school programs, MPRD offers Double Dutch to homeschoolers and participants at our 3 community centers.

Sanctioned by the American Double Dutch League (ADDL), MPRD has participated with the South Carolina Double Dutch Association for 16 years.

Open to children ages 3rd grade and up, Double Dutch consists of single teams of 3 people and double teams of 4 people.

MPRD teaches participants everything about the sport, from the basics to what is

expected at competition. Participants learn to turn ropes, jump, and perform stunts. We prepare our participants to compete, but it is not a requirement to join the program.

Fun, fellowship, teamwork, and good sportsmanship are the main goals.

Teams that choose to compete must participate in one local jump-off. This year, Mount Pleasant Recreation Department will host one of these jump-offs in February. Teams will then advance to the regional competition.

From there, teams placing 1st – 3rd advance to the state level. Only teams placing 1st or 2nd at the state level advance to the world competition, the final level of competition.

MPRD is fortunate in that we have had teams participate in every level of competition.

18 South Carolina Recreation and Parks • www.scrpa.org

In addition to competing, MPRD Double Dutch teams have performed at various community bazaars and other venues. Following a performance at the Christ our King-Stella Maris School’s bazaar, co-chairs of the event, Kelley Andrews and Denise Hamilton wrote, “We are humbled by your kindness and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Please know that we see your contribution as an investment in the future of our community.”

Mount Pleasant Recreation Department’s Double Dutch program has evolved over the years into a respected program in the East Cooper community, reaching all facets of our area. With a jump rope or two, a positive attitude, and a competitive spirit, anyone can participate in Double Dutch!

Mount Pleasant Recreation Department’s

Unified Swim Program

by Shelli Davis, Mount Pleasant

M

ount Pleasant Recreation Department is proud of our Unified Swim program, the Piranha’s, and the impact it has on our special needs community.

The Piranha’s swim team was started in 2009 when Aquatics Coordinator Jeff Garrard realized there were not enough aquatic opportunities for our special needs athletes. What started out as a team with six swimmers has now grown to a roster of 30 swimmers!

“It’s amazing to see one of our swimmers, Elizabeth Carpenter, who competed in a 15 Meter Walk skills competition four years ago, is now preparing to compete in the 50 Meter Butterfly,” says Coach Jeff.

“Elizabeth wakes up Monday morning saying ‘four days until swim practice on Friday!’ and by Friday she is telling everyone in the carpool line at school she has practice tonight and gives them a demonstration of her favorite stroke, the butterfly,” her mom, Gene Carpenter, tells us. “Having these opportunities gives Elizabeth the experience of being successful and winning at something, which is not only important for her and our family, but especially for her brother. These immeasurable moments of joy and accomplishments make every daily challenge worthwhile.”

Our coaches and volunteers spend four months training our swimmers for the Special Olympics of South Carolina Summer State games, hosted at Fort Jackson.

The meet is open to athletes ages eight and up, with competitions for every skill level including 15 Meter Walk and Floats, to 100 Meter Medley’s. We also host a local swim meet to prepare all the Charleston area special needs swim teams for State Game and to remind them competition not only about winning, but about having fun. There is nothing better than ending the day with the biggest cannonball competition!

Mount Pleasant Recreation Department’s Unified Swim program is just one of the many activities offered to our special needs athletes and their peers. These invaluable programs promote inclusion, build life skills, allow for new friendships to be formed and provide an experience most of us may take for granted.

Spring 2013 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 19

SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation & Parks Association

P.O. Box 1046 Lexington, SC 29071-1046

Reconnect kids with the

ads1301134 © 2013 The World Needs Play® is a registered trademark of Playworld Systems,® Inc. Colors shown may vary from actual product colors.

natuRal woRld and you won’t believe

how they blossom.

Origins

Too many kids spend way too much time

Caring for real plants and flowers gives kids a special appreciation for the environment.

And nice green thumbs.

immersed in the digital world. Our Origins playgrounds reconnect them with the wonders of nature. Kids romp on the realistic boulders, rock formations, logs, and dinosaur fossils.

They tend real plants and flower beds. And while they’re having a ball, they improve their coordination and agility. They develop better problem-solving and social skills. And best of all, they see there’s life beyond the video screen.

Real life. To learn more about Origins or to find a dealer near you, please call us or visit our website.

1-800-459-7241 info@playworldpreferred.com www.playworldpreferred.com

Kids who play regularly in natural settings are healthier and have lower stress. Research proves it.

So does kids’ laughter.