South Carolina Recreation & Parks magazine by Pernsteiner Creative Group, Inc.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Summer 2012

Recreation & Parks ASSOCIATION

City of Charleston: Dedicated to making recreation available to all

nt s e v E l a i c e p f or S

Dillon Wellness Center: providing opportunities to enjoy healthy and active lifestyles

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SOUTH CAROLINA

Recreation & Parks Association

2012 Board of Directors Executive Committee President: Joe Ross (p) 843-389-2785 (f) 667-0934 jross@florenceco.org

Past President: Jan Cox (p) 864-467-4326 (f) 467-5735 jbcox@greenvillesc.gov

President Elect: Mark Sexton (p) 803-329-8777 (f) 329-8786 msexton@cityofrockhill.com

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

Vice President:Don Shuman (p) 864-676-2170 (f) 288-6499 don@gcrd.org

Eastern VP: Matt Gibbons (p) 843-280-5574 jmgibbons@nmb.us

Secretary: Jessica Campbell (p) 803-642-7648 jcampbell@cityofaikensc.gov

Southern VP: Will Rishovd (p) 843-216-6366 rishovdw@charleston-sc.gov

Treasurer: Eric Stewart Western VP: Jon Luton (p) 864-595-5356 (f) 595-5363 (p) 864-343-6353 john.luton@spartanburgparks.org estewart@ccprc.com

Branches CBM Branch: Scott Wilhide (p) 803-772-1228 swilhide@earthlink.net

SCAP Branch: Paul McCulloch (p) 843-545-3319 (f) 545-3396 pmcculloch@gtcounty.org

ELM Branch: Tom Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Rourke (p) 843-762-2172 (f) 762-2683 torourke@ccprc.com

Student Branch Wellness Branch

EMB: Shaniqua Simmons (p) 843-740-8505 (f) 745-1057 ssimmons@northcharleston.org PRM Branch: Justin Mullis (p) 864-804-8073 (f) 593-5363 justin.mullis@spartanburgparks.org

NRPA Southern Regional Representative (1 voting member of board) Professional: Willis Lee (2012) (p) 864-231-2232 (f) 231-2298 wlee@cityofandersonsc.com SC PRT Rep: Open

Association Report..........................................................................5 City of Charleston: Dedicated to Making Recreation Available to All................................................................................6 Uniqe Spaces for Special Events.......................................................8 Charleston County Parks...............................................................10 Newberry Firehouse......................................................................12 For Rent: A Piece of History............................................................13 Saluda Shoals Park River Center.....................................................14 Caycee Tennis and Fitness Center..................................................16 Dillon Wellness Center..................................................................17 Mclean Park.................................................................................18 South Carolina Space Rental Guide...............................................19 The Rising Risk of Bullying..............................................................22

ADVERTISER INDEX Aiken Parks, Rec and Tourism..........................................................9 Churchich Recreation and Design....................................................5 Cunningham Recreation.........................................Inside Front Cover Hunter Knepshield................................................................................3 Musco Sports Lighting....................................................... Back Cover Pernsteiner Marketing..........................................................................5 Playworld Preferred............................................................................23 South Carolina Aquarium.....................................................................4 The Parking Place..................................................................................3 Wood + Partners...................................................................................4 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.

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RAP Branch: Julie Edmond (p) 803-213-1194 jedmond@icrc.net

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

Membership Services Coordinator: Melissa Williams melissa@scrpa.org

SCRPA P.O. Box 1046 Lexington, SC 29071-1046 (p) 803-808-7753 (f) 803-808-7754 www.scrpa.org, info@scrpa.org

Summer 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 3

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

by Jim Headley and Joe Ross

The Association Report

The summer months are upon us all. While your programs are running strong we know that our members are currently planning for the fall season. Like you, SCRPA is now in full mode of preparing its fall programs. Most notably, the 67th SCRPA Conference – “Connecting Lives Through Play” in Greenville at Verde Greens (Embassy Suites) and also our annual fund raising golf tournament. The tournament is held in October and is hosted by the City of Orangeburg at Hillcrest Golf Course. We first would like to explain this issue of the magazine. SCRPA wants to help you “sell” your meeting space. While we realize that this is not our primary mission, many agencies provide rental facilities throughout the state. SCRPA wanted to learn how and where agencies were helping “meet” their community needs. These facilities throughout the state fill a niche that many in our communities need and want. Thanks to everyone who took the time to fill out the survey. We hope each of you enjoy this issue.

some inroads on the federal side through efforts of encouraging the funding stateside for LWCF in a more proportionate level as a top priority. All of our South Carolina US Congressional delegation have heard this message and agreed with the proposal of continued stateside funding and a dedicated minimum amount. Our SC LEAD class will be graduating its 6th class since the program’s inception at this year’s conference. Educating our leaders of tomorrow remains a top issue for our Association. This year’s class includes young professionals from Aiken, Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Horry County and Lexington County. We strongly encourage all directors and interested professionals to submit an application next year for the 2014 class. Please be looking for the release sometime in 2013. Currently, the Awards and Citations Committee is processing nominations of the agencies or persons submitted through the new awards program. The Awards Committee has worked

diligently developing this new standard for awarding those who achieve a measurable level of excellence within their communities. Please do not hesitate to let us know your thoughts after you see the presentation at this year’s luncheon during our annual conference. The Recreation Arts & Programming (RAP) has been hard at work. The senior citizens committee of RAP branch is finalizing their plans for another successful trip to Springmaid Beach for the annual “Senior Beach Retreat”. The branch is also looking to finalize plans for a programmer’s forum. Our hopes are that we will attract programmers from a across the region replacing what was once known as “Rock Eagle”. Please stay tuned for this announcement later in the year. Thanks to everyone for your continued support. As always we can not do our programs without your continued support. Thanks to each of you for your valuable contributions.

The General Assembly is winding down at press time and there are many issues left uncertain. We believe we have started the process by helping our agencies with the SC DHEC regulation on the number of lifeguards required at public swimming pools. We have a number of other issues dealing with aquatics and these will be addressed next year. SCRPA has provided updates for the state retirement system change that is coming. We also are hoping that we receive another one year temporary reduction in SLED check fees for your volunteers. A permanent fix will be introduced next year through legislation. SCRPA has made

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Reaching full potential. One client at a time. in the Park. Experience EVENTS

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

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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

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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

Free

APRIL-AUGUS

Special Events

Parks & on Recreati House

Park & Run

Fun Runs

youth All ages run or try the for a 5K family-friendlyalong paved city trails Come join us travel Both courses Memorial at the Veterans’ “Almost-a-Mile.” 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 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 ____ Open House 5K Activity # Mother’s Day by a paid adult) at 9:15 a.m. 5K run starts must be accompanied All ages (children center and plant Monterey Drive 3700 her to the nature a spring plants day Park, Bring race Wolfe her on 8:45 a.m. on Celebrate Mom! home. Lead wildflowers. Registration deadline: 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 Ave. Sunday, May W. Franklin Center, 8300 Westwood Nature (non-resident) (resident) / $5 $4 per person

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

St. ages All18

SOUTH CAROLINA

recreation & ParkS aSSociat

“An Inconvenient Summerfor2012 event is coa showing of page __. This

on 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

Experience

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park.org www.stlouis

City of Charlest on: Dedicated to making recreatio available to n all

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Summer 2012 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 5

e l r a h C f o y Cit By Will Rishovd

g n i k a M o t Dedicated l l A o t e l b a l i a v A n o i t a e r Rec

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

n o t es

The City of Charleston is unequivocally dedicated to making recreation diversified and available to all children, youth families, and adults we serve. Our mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of life of the citizens of the City of Charleston and we do that daily with the programs, facilities, activities, and staff that work directly to offer numerous and quality recreational opportunities. From the historic downtown area to the growing suburbs of West Ashley, James and Johns Island and Daniel Island, the City of Charleston works diligently to make investments in recreational facilities to help facilitate the growth and needs of our 120,083 citizens (source US Census Bureau). The City of Charleston is also in a very unique position to provide for many who may or may not be residents of Charleston, South Carolina, or even the United States. While many South Carolina municipalities care for their local residents, the City of Charleston must also provide for an influx of tourists and its residents year-round. This provides a challenge for the city in the sense that a delicate balance of tourism and local programs and events must be maintained. This is why several different departments and offices within the city of Charleston, such as the Office of Cultural Affairs, The Mayor’s for Children, Youth and Families, the Department of Parks, and the Department of Recreation have been created and thrive separately. This allows our city to offer world class events such as Piccolo Spoleto and MOJA that attract international visitors as well as events just for the community such as the First Day Festival to celebrate the return to school each August. It also makes it possible to offer the Family Circle Cup tournament on city owned tennis courts while offering programs such as the award winning Courting Kids program to our community. We also look to improve well established parks and to reshape facilities to suit the needs of surrounding neighborhoods. Participation, especially in sports and exercise, has risen dramatically in all areas allowing recreation to become a part of many more households. We will continue to stress the importance of fitness and wellness in every program we offer. The developing world of athletics has brought many sports to the fore front, including lacrosse, giving us the opportunity to provide new sports and introduce our children to new opportunities. Households across Charleston are now turning towards more economical ways to entertain their children as well as entice them to live a healthy lifestyle; the City of Charleston has maintained a wonderful avenue for families to do just that for decades. Through after school programs, athletics, community expos, yoga, and many other programs, the City of Charleston offers the best value and service for its citizens. The marketing campaign we currently practice is “fun you cannot afford to miss out on” which capitalizes on our moderate price point and a quality program. Our city, led by Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr., is committed to providing the very best programs and parks possible. Mayor Riley introduced the “Lighten up Charleston” program to encourage exercise and healthy eating with a goal of our community losing 100,000 pounds in the coming year. From the historic White Point Gardens to a neighborhood park where children gather to play, the objective is on making every experience within the City of Charleston as positive as possible. Our commitment to our citizens begins with the first visit into one of our parks, enrolling in a program, joining a sports team, or researching our city in a brochure or website – it is ever evolving and changing to suit the needs of every citizen and visitor. Spring 2012 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 7 Summer

s t n e v E l a i c e p f or S By Todd Pernsteiner, Pernsteiner Marketing

Just last week I spoke with an association manager to discuss collaborating on some design projects and the conversation turned to discussing her organization’s space needs for some upcoming continuing education seminars. She mentioned they’re need for meeting spaces that are affordable for smaller functions. I asked if they’ve considered a community park or recreation facility; she hadn’t but is now considering it and appreciated the suggestion.

to associations and companies looking for alternative meeting spaces.

The variety of rental spaces in South Carolina cities and counties are pretty remarkable – spaces such as amphitheaters, performance halls, nature centers, high-tech meeting rooms, outdoor spaces and aquatic parks. Most often, these spaces have been traditionally used for family gatherings and weddings, but more and more they’re opening their doors

The Drummond Center at Lake Greenwood State Park along the shores of Lake Greenwood offers open catering and kitchen rental and is available for meetings, weddings, receptions, family reunions and special gatherings. The terrace is one of the most beautiful locations in the state and provides an awesome view of the lake.

Many community facilities offer unique amenities not found elsewhere. Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center has a 11,000 sq ft. clubhouse and a 2,400 sq ft. fitness area with state-ofthe-art equipment. The clubhouse is wi-fi equipped and has a conference room that is available for business/ educational meetings and small events. The center also has a catering kitchen, observation deck overlooking stadium court, canteen, pro shop, and locker rooms with showers. Another major advantage of park and recreation facilities is they’re typically more affordable than corporate facilities - with zero or minimal catering requirements.

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

Park and recreation facility managers are always open to new and unique ways to host special events and meetings. Community sites are especially great for out-of-the-box fundraising or charitable events. Saluda Shoals Park will be hosting the inaugural Rollin’ on the River event June 16. This river celebration paddle is open to all ages. Enjoy live music while perusing vendors displaying the latest paddle sports gear. Charleston County parks hold a variety of events from fishing tournaments to triathlons all summer long. Visit ccprc.com for a detailed list on happenings. South Carolina Recreation and Park Association is providing this meeting and event planner guide to aid in choosing meeting spaces in South Carolina communities. Save and use this information as part of your event planning toolkit for your next event or meeting. Feel free to contact any of the facilities listed in this guide, they will be happy to provide you a space especially suited to your requirements.

Whether you’re looking for the ideal spot for a staff retreat or a one of a kind location for an event or tournament, the City of Aiken is a perfect fit!

Aiken is...

...a great match.

Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center

The Drummond Center at Lake Greenwood State Park

Aiken Municipal Auditorium Spacious and sophisticated, the auditorium provides seating for up to 200 people

Newberry Street Festival Center Outdoor venue great for any celebration

Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum The ideal place for small meetings and events

Rye Patch Reception Center Perfect place for larger meetings, receptions and retreats

Citizens Park Sports park with large baseball and softball complex as well as soccer fields H. O’Dell Weeks Center Small classroom style spaces available along with well appointed gymnasium facilities

URS Center for Performing Arts 17,000 square foot facility just right for any meeting or conference Weeks Tennis Center Featuring a 20 court facility with an additional 20 courts available for use

We’ve got a facility to fit every need… and the staff to assist you in planning!

Summer 2012 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 9

PHOTOS Main: Lake House at Bulow County Park Left: Cypress Hall at Wannamaker County Park Right: Edisto Shelter at James Island County Park

10 SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks â&#x20AC;˘ www.scrpa.org

County Parks Beautiful Venues for Very Special Events By Sarah Reynolds

Looking for a new spot to host your next group event? Consider the county parks of Charleston. Charleston’s newest event space is the gorgeous and budgetfriendly Lake House at Bulow. The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) purchased Bulow Plantation last year with funding assistance provided by the Greenbelt Bank Board Rural Greenbelt Program. Located in the West Ashley area of Charleston, the land ownership dates back to the eighteenth century, when the property was known as Savannah Plantation. The primarily forested property includes a mixed pine and hardwood plant community and freshwater wetlands. 250 acres of the property are set up as a conservation easement. Located on the property is a gem of a lodge that serves as a perfect setting for group events. With stunning natural views, the Lake House at Bulow is situated lake-side and offers a charming venue for weddings and other special occasions. The Lake House sleeps up to 12 people, and also features a full kitchen, a living room, a dining room, two porches, a lakeside patio, and a wood burning fireplace. Complete with a private woodland island, the Lake House at Bulow can accommodate up to 200 people and is available for rentals of all kinds.

Other CCPRC event facilities make for amazing group venues to host weddings, family reunions, meetings, and other social gatherings. Located within the 643-acre James Island County Park, Edisto Hall is nestled within a vista of majestic live oaks. Boasting 3,500 square feet, Edisto Hall features a catering kitchen, picnic area with grills, a stage, an indoor/outdoor PA system, - all with tables and chairs provided. For out-of-town visitors, the Cottages at James Island County Park are a perfect alternative to the typical hotel stay. North Charleston Wannamaker County Park is the beautiful woodlands backdrop for Cypress Hall, a 3,700-square foot facility that hosts up to 400 people when combined with the adjoining grassy meadow. Cypress Hall also features a catering kitchen, A/V equipment, stage, picnic area with grills, as well as a dressing room, plus tables and chairs. Hosting functions within James Island and Wannamaker County Park also puts you and your guests just moments away from all the on-site park amenities– trails, playgrounds, horseshoe pits, sand volleyball courts, waterparks and more. For details on renting The Lake House at Bulow, Edisto Hall or Cypress Hall, visit www.ccprc.com or call 843-795-4386 today.

Summer 2012 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 11

Firehouse

By Suzanne Elston Constructed in the 1890’s, the Newberry Firehouse Conference Center housed the original Fire Department, police dispatch and served as the City jail. The Newberry Fire Department building underwent its first major renovation during the depression, when it was reconditioned and expanded. It was abandoned in the 1980”s when a new complex was constructed and remained vacant and underutilized for nearly 20 years. Prior to the opening of the Newberry Opera House Hampton Inn in 2002, renovation and adaptive reuse of the property was envisioned. In 2004, the City of Newberry and Newberry Opera House began their pursuit of the project. Money

was secured through various grants, a voter authorized sales tax and lease purchase financing. At a cost of approximately $2.3 million, the City successfully completed the renovations to the station, establishing a first-class, fullservice conference center featuring a 1600 sq ft banquet room and lobby, four adaptable breakout rooms (originally the firefighters living quarters), an executive-styled board room, a state of the art audio-visual system, catering facilities and an outdoor courtyard and breezeway. Following the first phase of the downtown area revitalization which included the Newberry Opera House and construction

12 SOUTH SouthCAROLINA CarolinaRecreation Recreationand andParks Parks••www.scrpa.org www.scrpa.org

of the Hampton Inn, the Firehouse Conference Center served as a catalyst for the second phase of the downtown Newberry economic development project. The goal of the project is to sustain momentum in downtown revitalization by attracting meetings and other events with significant out of town participation and creating a customer base for existing businesses, the Opera House and area hotels. The NFCC has enjoyed substantial tangible and intangible returns in now its fifth year of operation. The project has been a source of community pride and has served to unite the public and private sectors to achieve a common goal.

For Rent: A Piece of History By Laurie Helms – Marketing Coordinator, Rock Hill Parks, Recreation & Tourism

An important piece of history lies amidst the picnic shelters, ball fields, community rooms and other facilities available for the Rock Hill community to reserve for little league banquets, family reunions and other celebrations. It is a reminder of a painful past, a symbol of progress, and a prime example of a facility that serves not only the immediate community, but all of Rock Hill. McGirt Auditorium at Emmett Scott Recreation Center on Crawford Road is a 1,100 seat auditorium, complete with stage, lighting, dressing rooms and lobby. The auditorium is available for rent and is used frequently for talent shows, empowerment/ motivational programs, praise gatherings and more. Some churches use the facility as a temporary location for their weekly services when their home facility is not available. But during the 1950’s and 1960’s, McGirt served as the auditorium for the Emmett Scott School, Rock Hill’s first public school for African-Americans. During these years the school was a junior high and high school, but the school was founded in 1920 and initially served grades 1 – 12. The school was named for Emmett J. Scott, a prominent educator. Ralph McGirt served as the school’s principal from 1938 to 1959. When the school was closed in 1970 due to desegregation, the City of Rock Hill purchased the property and over 20 years renovated the school into a recreation center. Parts of the original school were kept to honor the past, especially McGirt Auditorium. McGirt Auditorium is a complete mixture of the old and the new that continues to keep Emmett Scott Center part of Rock Hill’s past, present and future.

Like most recreation centers, Emmett Scott offers a variety of programs and classes, an afterschool program, a summer camp, and it hosts numerous community-wide events such as a Fall Festival and Celebration Jam. The center consists of a gym, community room, craft room, classroom and game room – many of which can be rented for group functions. Outdoor amenities include a 10.3 acre park with a walking trail, pool, picnic shelter, basketball court, multi-purpose field and playground. Latoya Mayes, who volunteered at the center, now is the center supervisor and has been instrumental in extending the center’s outreach to the community, especially to youth. As one of the older facilities in Rock Hill’s city parks system, the center and auditorium have required maintenance and improvements over the years. Recent improvements at McGirt include interior painting, new stage curtains and replacing the floor in the dressing rooms. Today many high school reunions take place at the Center. Those who attended the school are called “Scottites” and are very loyal to their school and each other. Many still live in the neighborhoods surrounding the center and are among those who use McGirt for their church or other community programs. Many former students are involved in promoting positive attitudes and values among the youth of the community, and they assist Mayes with programs and needs such as transportation when called upon. In Rock Hill, Emmett Scott Center and McGirt Auditorium are true examples of facilities that not only meet the needs of the community, but for many, past and present, they are the very heart of the community.

Summer 2012 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 13

Saluda Sho

By Jason White Whether you are planning a small intimate gathering, business meeting, corporate retreat or wedding reception, the River Center at Saluda Shoals Park is the perfect location. Over 350 acres of beautiful forest along the banks of the Saluda River provide a peaceful “get away from it all” feel to any event. Describing the River Center is like describing nature itself. Elegant curves in the architecture echo the graceful flow of

the river. A two-story stone fireplace adds warmth and comfort. A spacious atrium calls to mind expanses of sky and clear pristine air. Large spans of glass and outdoor patios seem to extend the rooms into the surrounding forest. Through classic design, guests engage in a conversation with nature. With over 5,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, the River Center can be

14 SOUTH SouthCAROLINA CarolinaRecreation Recreationand andParks Parks••www.scrpa.org www.scrpa.org

subdivided into as many as five rooms allowing you to select the exact size and configuration that best suits your group. Each meeting room is equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system, drop down screens, Internet access and conference call capabilities. River Center staff will assist you in planning every aspect of your event, from recommending caterers and discount hotels, to fulfilling audiovisual needs.

hoals Park River Center

Team building activities are also available to River Center guests with our Real Team Challenge Course. In the beautiful forested setting of Saluda Shoals Park, enjoy a series of physical and mental challenges that promote teamwork, communication, strategy and build team performance. Team development and leadership concepts are taught through a series of action-based learning activities requiring participation and

cooperation from the entire team. Challenge Course activities are designed to gradually increase in difficulty so the team can learn from it successes, build trust, confidence and stronger communication skills. Experienced facilitators help the group reflect upon their accomplishments, discuss how they function as a team and explore ways to become more effective. Half, full, and multi-day schedules are available.

The River Center at Saluda Shoals Park is convenient to both I-20 and I-26, only minutes from downtown Columbia and close to a wide selection of restaurants, hotels and shopping. For a meeting facility that offers both a unique atmosphere and an escape from the hustle and bustle of every day, consider the River Center at Saluda Shoals Park.

Summer Summer2012 2012â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘SOUTH SOUTHCAROLINA CAROLINARecreation Recreationand andParks Parks 15

Cayce

Tennis & Fitness Center

By Todd Stump, Lexington County Recreation & Aging Commission The Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center is a collaborative effort between the City of Cayce, SCANA and Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission. The facility which opened in October of 2012 is located on a 10 acre site tucked along the historic Congaree Creek and just off I-77 at exit #2 in the City of Cayce. Featuring 30 lighted hard courts, (7) of which are 36 foot courts dedicated for age 8 and under, (12) which have the 60 foot blended lines for age 10 and under and (1) stadium court allow Cayce Tennis and fitness Center to host a multitude of local, state and national tennis tournaments form 8 and under through senior venues.

The facility also features a state of the art fitness center with a full line of Cybex VR1 line of weight equipment with 21 peaces of True cardio equipment: 6 elliptical, 6 treadmills, 6 recumbent bikes and 3 upright bikes, stretching area with stability balls/machine balls and a dumbbell area. Another feature of our fitness center is the (6) 35 inch televisions and wifi located throughout the fitness center which provides our members access to many different forms of entertainment while they workout. Showers and locker rooms are available for all our members, plus hand towels and bath towels are provided.

16 SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks â&#x20AC;˘ www.scrpa.org

The Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center also offers a 1200 square foot Conference Center with state of the art audio visual capabilities and a catering kitchen. A balcony over looking the stadium court is another spectacular feature of the conference center which allows functions to utilized both our indoor and outdoor spaces. Three different table configurations allow us to accommodate small to medium sized functions such as educational, wedding receptions, birthday parties and business meetings. A convenient and cozy setting is how some of our past users have commented about our facilities.

Dillon

Holiday Craft Fair in gymnasium`

Wellness Center By Bridget Elvington The City of Dillon Wellness Center opened in March 2007 to a community eager for recreational activities. It is a $4.1 million dollar, 40,000 square foot indoor sport and fitness complex. The facility features a state-of-the-art fitness center and tow indoor walking tracks, multi-purpose meeting rooms with a catering kitchen, a smaller conference room and a gymnasium. The Wellness Center recently celebrated its 5th year anniversary and continues to provide the community and surrounding communities with an opportunity to workout in a state-of-the-art facility and use all the amenities it has to offer. Officials began planning a wellness center for the community and looked for ways to fun the project. For five years, city council discussed plans for the center at every meeting. Meanwhile, officials began applying for grants and seeking contributions. The group got a major boost when it was awarded a South Carolina Competitive Grant and a South Carolina Parks, Recreation and Tourism grant. Also, the city issued a general obligation bond. Additional funding came from a county capital project tax and donations from local organizations. The Wellness Center couldn’t have opened at more crucial time for Dillon County residents. Although small in population, Dillon has some big problems. Unemployment in the city was nearly eighteen percent. Obesity, stroke and heart attack rates for the area were well above average, and the local hospital had to shutter its wellness center leaving residents 35 miles from the nearest fitness center. There is something for everyone: a fitness center with 2,000 square feet of free weights, locker rooms with multiple showers, a 2,300 square foot aerobics room, 2,100 square feet of cardiovascular exercise equipment, a multi-purpose meeting room with a catering kitchen, office space, storage area, reception area, a 12,000 square foot gymnasium with a walking track that one can walk around fourteen times to equal one mile and the main walking track is outside of the gym and one can walk it around ten and one-half times to equal one mile. The temperature for walking

indoors is kept at 69 to 70 degrees year round. The Wellness Center offers a trained staff, dry sauna, wireless internet, and cable television. Services such as aerobics classes and massage therapy are also available. There are also three personal trainers available to assist your needs or answer any questions you might have about exercising. We have three meeting rooms available for rental at the Wellness Center and they include the multi-purpose room, the conference room and the gymnasium. The meeting rooms are continuously rented year round and are rented for all occasions. The rooms have been rented for weddings and wedding receptions, class reunions, family reunions, birthday parties, corporate functions, special events, employee training, agricultural events, health fairs, basketball and volleyball tournaments, karate tournaments, concerts, Arbor Day Celebration, high school banquets, high school ring ceremonies, Summer Day Camp, dances, Military Career Expo’s, Sportsman banquets, and many more types of occasions. We have membership options at affordable rates and we also offer a five dollar day pass for non-members. We also offer corporate packages for local and surrounding businesses. The 40,000 square foot facility is located at 1647 Commerce Drive in Dillon. The hours of operation are Monday thru Friday from 5:00 a.m. until 8:30 p.m., Saturday, 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., and we are closed on Sundays. The facility is located near the interstate motels and has provides fitness opportunities to business and leisure travelers along I-95.

Multi-Purpose room

Father/Daughter Dance in the gymnasium

The projects success has inspired officials to do more. There are plans for outdoor trails around the facilities as well as pathways to connect to local schools and are motels with the center. These additions will allow for inline skating, bicycling and skateboarding. Officials in Dillon have improved the quality of life for their residents, by providing an opportunity to enjoy a healthy and active liftstyle in their hometown.

Summer 2012 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 17

Mclean Park Shelter One

By Courtney Williamson Public meeting spaces are frequently used amenities in communities. One typically thinks of meeting rooms or convention centers when such needs arise. The City of North Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation Department is fortunate enough to offer both indoor meeting spaces and outdoor shelters for rent. Each type of space has proven to be both favorable and functional. Typically, esthetic beauty is not an essential factor when searching for the perfect meeting space. The City’s most sought after venue, however, is both practical and charming at the same time. Shelter One at McLean Park is situated within a ten-acre park. This covered multi-functional shelter contains eighteen large picnic tables and a large charcoal grill.

Since it can comfortably accommodate one hundred and fifty people, a variety of events and gatherings are held there, ranging from wedding ceremonies to political gatherings. More often than not, people return year after year to hold family reunions, birthday parties, and many other celebrated events. Surrounded by natural beauty in the heart of the city, the shelter overlooks a beautiful two acre lake and is a short walk from the beach. McLean Park offers both active and passive recreational opportunities. Additional amenities include a softball/baseball field; two lighted, hard-surface tennis courts; two playgrounds; a paved, half-mile walking path and fitness trail; a meditation garden; and a gazebo overlooking the lake. The Parks and

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

Recreation Department also holds several special events at McLean Park every year including Howl-O-Scream, Easter egg hunt, and Christmas Tree Lighting. Other special events held at the park include summer music concerts and movie showings. The City of North Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation Department strives to create and provide a sense of community through its people, parks, and programs. Shelter One at McLean Park is a gemstone that provides space where people can enjoy nature’s beauty, a variety special events, or celebrate special occasion. Shelter One at McLean Park is one of North Myrtle Beach’s many treasures available to both locals and visitors.

Cypress Hall - Wannamaker County Park

Amphitheater Rental

Indoor Theater Rental

Yes

200

Yes

200

Yes

200

Yes

300

Yes

Yes Yes Yes

No No No

1 100 4 400 400 1

100 400 200

No No No

No No Yes

No No No

Yes Yes Yes

No Yes 200 No

No Yes No

No No No

Yes

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

No Yes No No Yes

1 200 1 85 90 110 1 45 60 60 5 200 200 200 2 50

No No No No No Yes 30 Yes No No

No No No Yes No

No Yes Yes Yes Yes

No No No Yes No

No Yes Yes No No

No Yes Yes Yes No

No No No No No

Yes

200

Yes

200

Yes

155

292

300

Yes

169

272

Yes

200

300

Yes

yes

Yes

200

Yes

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

No No Yes No No

1 1 1 1 12

75 75 200 75 100 75 150 25 25 25 100 200 200

No No No No Yes 18

Yes No Yes No No

No No no Yes Yes

No Yes Yes Yes Yes

No No No No Yes 75

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

No No No No No

60 60 75 120 300

Yes

800

Drummond Center - Lake Greenwood State Park

Indoor Theater Capacity

Outdoor Space Rental

Pool/Waterpark Capacity

Pool/Waterpark Rental

Yes

60 60 120 180 235

On-Site Maintenance

Yes

60 60 70 120 235

On-Site AV Rental

1 1 1 3 1

Alcohol Permitted

No Yes Yes No Yes

Booth Capacity

No No No No No

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Convention Hall

30 No No No No

Cocktail Reception Capacity

Yes No No Yes No

Meeting Capacity (theater style)

No No No No No

Meeting Capacity (classroom style)

No No Yes No No No No Yes No No Yes Yes Yes

Meeting Rooms

No No No Yes 83 Yes 30

Kitchen Rental

Calhoun Falls State Park No Camden/Goodale State Park No Caycee Tennis & Fitness Center No City of Dillon No Charleston - Founders Hall No Charleston - James Island County Park No Conferene Center Charleston - James Island County Park No Edisto Hall Charleston - James Island County Park No Picnic Center Porch Charleston - James Island County Park No Stono Shelter Charleston - James Island County Park No Wando Shelter Charleston - James Island County Park No Wappoo Shelter Ehrhardt - Rivers Brdige State Historic Site No Florence County Parks and Recreation No Folly Beach County Park, The Pelican Watch No Georgetown County Parks & Recreation Howard Recreation Center Auditorium No Georgetown County Parks & Recreation CHoppee Auditorium No Hampton - Lake Warren State Park Lancaster - Andrew Jackson State Park No McCormick - Hickory Knob State Resort Park Yes Mountain Rest - Oconee State Park No Mt. Pleasant - Palmetto Islands County Park, No Big Oak Shelter Mt. Pleasant - Palmetto Islands County Park, No Sweet Gum Shelter Mt. Pleasant - Palmetto Islands County Park, No Tall Pines Shelter Newberry Firehouse Conference Center No Ninety Six - Lake Greenwood State Park No Drummond Center North Charleston Wannamaker County Park, No Park Center Meeting Room North Charleston Wannamaker County Park, No Cypress Hall North Myrtle Beach Parks and No Recreation Department Pickens - Table Rock State Park No Prosperity - Drher Island State Park No Ridgeville - Givhans Ferry State Park No Salem - Devils Fork State Park No Taylors - Greenville County Recreation District Yes

Open Catering

Space Rental Guide

On-Site Catering

Recreation & Parks Association

200

Picnic Center Porch - James Island County Park

Summer 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 19

South Carolina Park and Recreation Rental Directory

Holcombe Room - Devils Fork State Park

Riverfront Hall - Givhans Ferry State Park

Table Rock State Park Lodge

South Carolina Park & Recreation Rental Directory Calhoun Falls State Park 46 Maintenance Shop Road Calhoun Falls, SC 29628 Phone: 864-447-8267 Fax: 864-447-2638 Web: www.southcarolinastateparks.com

Charleston - James Island County Park Picnic Center Porch 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-795-4386 Web: www.ccprc.com

Folly Beach County Park, The Pelican Watch 1010 West Ashley Avenue Folly Beach, SC 29439 Phone: 843-795-4386 Web: www.ccprc.com

Camden/Goodale State Park 650 Park Road Camden, SC 29020 Phone: 803-432-2772 Web: www.southcarolinastateparks.com

Charleston - James Island County Park Stono Shelter 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-795-4386 Web: www.ccprc.com

Georgetown County Parks & Recreation, Choppee Auditorium 2030 Church Street Georgetown, SC 29440 Phone: 843-545-3532 Web: www.georgetowncountysc.org

Charleston - James Island County Park Wando Shelter 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-795-4386 Web: www.ccprc.com

Georgetown County Parks & Recreation, Howard Recreation Center Auditorium 2030 Church Street Georgetown, SC 29440 Phone: 843-545-3532 Web: www.georgetowncountysc.org

Charleston - James Island County Park Wappoo Shelter 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-795-4386 Web: www.ccprc.com

Hampton - Lake Warren State Park 1079 Lake Warren Road Hampton, SC 29924 Phone: 803-943-5051 Web: www.southcarolinaparks.com

Cayce Tennis & Fitness Center 1120 Fort Congaree Trail Cayce, SC 29033 Phone: 803-227-3030 Web: www.cayce.lexingtoncountytennis.com City of Dillon P.O. Box 431 Dillon, SC 29536 Phone: 843-774-5115 Fax: 843-774-9335 Web: www.cityofdillon.sc.us Charleston - Founders Hall 423 King Street Charleston, SC 29403 Phone: 843-852-2965 Fax: 843-853-0444 Web: www.FoundersHallCharleston.com Charleston - James Island County Park Conference Center 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-795-4386 Web: www.ccprc.com Charleston - James Island County Park Edisto Hall 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-795-4386 Web: www.ccprc.com

Ehrhardt - Rivers Bridge State Historic Site 325 State Park Road Ehrhardt, SC 29081 Phone: 803-267-3675 Fax: 803-267-3675 Web: www.southcarolinaparks.com Florence County Parks and Recreation 710 South Irby Street Florence, SC 29501 Phone: 843-667-0920 Fax: 843-667-0920 Web: www.lynchesriverpark.com

20 South Carolina Recreation and Parks â&#x20AC;˘ www.scrpa.org

Lancaster - Andrew Jackson State Park 196 Andrew Jackson Park Road Lancaster, SC 29720 Phone: 803-285-3344 Fax: 803-285-3344 Web: www.southcarolinaparks.com Mountain Rest - Oconee State Park 624 State Park Road Mountain Rest, SC 29664 Phone: 864-638-5353 Fax: 888-803-0844 Web: www.southcarolinaparks.com Mt. Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park, Big Oak Shelter 444 Needlerush Parkway Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 Phone: 843-795-4389 Web: www.ccprc.com

Oconee State Park Meeting Room

Pleasant Ridge Camp & Retreat Center - Greenville County Recreation District

South Carolina Park & Recreation Rental Directory Mt. Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park, Sweet Gum Shelter 444 Needlerush Parkway Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 Phone: 843-795-4389 Web: www.ccprc.com Mt. Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park, Tall Pines Shelter 444 Needlerush Parkway Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 Phone: 843-795-4389 Web: www.ccprc.com Newberry Firehouse Conference Center 1227 McKibben Street Newberry, SC 29036 Phone: 803-276-1800 Fax: 803-321-3892 Web: newberryfireshouse.com McCormick - Hickory Knob State Resort Park 1591 Resort Drive McCormick, SC 29835 Phone: 864-391-5380 Fax: 864-391-5390 Web: www.hickoryknobresort.com

Conference Center - James Island County Park

Ninety Six - Lake Greenwood State Park, Drummond Center 302 State Park Road Ninety Six, SC 29666 Phone: 864-543-3535 Fax: 864-546-7670 Web: www.southcarolinaparks.com

Pickens - Table Rock State Park 158 Ellison Lane Pickens, SC 29671 Phone: 864-878-9813 Fax: 864-878-9077 Web: www.tablerocklodge.net

North Charleston Wannamaker County Park, Park Center Meeting Room 8888 University Road North Charleston, SC 29406 Phone: 843-795-4386 Web: www.ccprc.com North Charleston Wannamaker County Park, Cypress Hall 8888 University Road North Charleston, SC 29406 Phone: 843-795-4386 Web: www.ccprc.com North Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation Department 1018 2nd Avenue South North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 Phone: 843-280-5584 Fax: 843-280-5594 Web: www.parks.nmb.us]

South Carolina Park and Recreation Rental Directory

Pelican Watch Shelter - Folly Beach County Park

Prosperity - Dreher Island State Park 3677 State Park Road Prosperity, SC 29127 Phone: 803-364-4152 Fax: 803-364-0756 Web: www.southcarolinaparks.com Ridgeville - Givhans Ferry State Park 746 Givhans Ferry Road Ridgeville, SC 29472 Phone: 843-873-0692 Fax: 843-873-0692 Web: www.southcarolinaparks.com Salem - Devils Fork State Park 161 Holcombe Circle Salem, SC 29676 Phone: 864-944-2639 Web: www.southcarolinaparks.com Taylors - Greenville County Recreation District 4806 Old Spartanburg Road Taylors, SC 29687 Phone: 864-660-1065 Fax: 864-836-8569 Web: pleasantridgecampandretreatcenter.org

Sweet Gum Shelter - Palmetto Islands County Park

The Lake House - Bulow County Park

Summer 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 21

Permission to be reprinted from Praesidium, Inc. Safety Bulletin Volume 18, 2011

Incidents similar to our In the News stories occur daily in youth-serving programs. What’s the common denominator? Bullying. Experts define bullying as the intentional, repeated, unpleasant or negative behavior by one or more persons directed against a person who has difficulty defending himself or herself. Unfortunately, bullying can occur in any youth-serving program, including schools, camps, athletics, and child care. Already familiar to many in the world of education, the following bullying statistics are now garnering attention at a national level:

• Every 7 minutes a child is bullied at school. • 160,000 children miss school each day due to a fear of bullying. • 70% of educational research is now devoted towards bullying. • 45 states currently have laws addressing bullying.

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

As these statistics become better known and horrendous incidents of bullying continue to make headlines, organizations often ask us how to systematically prevent and respond to bullying. Praesidium has analyzed hundreds of bullying incidents and reviewed state statutes, case studies, and bullying literature to provide guidance on this hot topic.

Read on for four steps your organization should take when managing the risk of bullying... Identify High-Risk Youths, Activities, and Locations Bullying does not occur as an isolated incident. Instead, experts agree that bullying results as a complex interaction between many factors - types of youths, activities, and physical characteristics of a program. Organizations should evaluate their programs and review past incidents of bullying behaviors to determine those youths, activities, and locations that should be designated as “high-risk.” Praesidium encourages organizations to survey youths, employees, volunteers, and parents to discover how bullying occurs in your programs. This can be a useful tool to learn about the more subtle incidents of bullying.

Educate Employees, Volunteers, Youths, and Parents

• Are there too many youths in this physical location at the same time?

The next step is proactively educating all employees, volunteers, youths, and parents about bullying. Specifically, the organization should provide all employees with the definition of bullying, the various types of behaviors that fall within that definition, and most importantly, specific steps they can take to prevent and respond to bullying. Youths should receive age-appropriate information pertaining to bullying and their role in bullying prevention. Finally, organizations should provide parents with information about bullying and the organization’s efforts to prevent bullying in its programs. However, organizations should not limit bullying prevention discussions to a one-time employee workshop or youth discussion. Instead, organizations must strategically implement an ongoing education program that continually addresses specific bullying concerns within programs.

Supervise Youths and Monitor High-Risk Activities and Locations Most bullying-related lawsuits brought against youth-serving organizations claim that the organization was negligent in supervising youths. Step 1 will help you highlight which youths, activities, and locations present challenges to your bullying prevention efforts. This information can guide you to create monitoring plans to mitigate those risks. For example, if youths reported that bullying behaviors occur most often during outdoor free time, then the organization should re-evaluate the current monitoring plan during this time. The organization might consider the following:

• Are we mixing age groups that should be separated during this time? • Do we have enough adults supervising during this time? • Are these adults actively and strategically supervising the youths and their surroundings? The organization should develop a monitoring plan for the high-risk activities and locations. Employees, volunteers, and youths should be educated regarding this new plan.

Responding procedures should emphasize that it is not the employee or volunteer’s responsibility to determine whether these are normal peer-topeer conflicts or bullying behaviors. Problematic behaviors should be reported to a supervisor who will help them make this determination. Response procedures should include: • How employees and volunteers should intervene in bullying behaviors. • When to notify a supervisor.

Respond to Bullying Responding to bullying behaviors can be a challenge. We’ve heard that youth workers often think: • “Is this really bullying or is it kids being kids?” • “The Facebook message wasn’t sent from one of our program’s computers, so it’s not our problem.”

• How supervisors should investigate bullying incidents, including outlining when an investigation is appropriate. • How supervisors should utilize collected information pertaining to the incident and previous related incidents to address possible systemic problems; and documentation requirements. As you evaluate your current bullying prevention plans, call Praesidium for assistance on how to best manage your risks. From online training and training workshops to comprehensive bullying plans, Praesidium can help you keep the youths in your programs safe.

• “I heard about it from another child, but I didn’t see the behavior myself. Can I really do anything about it?”

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