SCRPA Winter 2012-13

SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation & Parks ASSOCIATION 2012 SCRPA

Awards Highlights Mount Pleasant Recreation Department

Role Model Program in Youth Sports

Greer Coaches Get Head Smart About Concussions

Winter 2012-2013

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SOUTH CAROLINA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

The #1 Question: Is It Good for the Children?.............................. 4 Association Report........................................................................... 5 2012 SCRPA Awards Highlights....................................................... 6 Greer Coaches Get Head Smart About Concussions.................11 One Program. Many Champions................................................... 12 Making a Difference through Expanding Services..................... 14 MPRD Role Model Program........................................................... 16 Ready, Set, Run!.............................................................................. 18

ADVERTISER INDEX Aiken Parks, Rec and Tourism........................................................ 18 Churchich Recreation and Design..................................................11 Cunningham Recreation..................................... Inside Front Cover General Recreation......................................................................... 19 Hunter Knepshield............................................................................ 3 Pernsteiner......................................................................................... 5 Playworld Preferred.........................................................Back Cover R.J. Thomas..................................................................................... 13 The Parking Place.............................................................................. 3 Wood + Partners............................................................................. 10 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.

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

Student Branch Wellness Branch

THE

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

arking lace, Inc.

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

SC PRT Rep: Open

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

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

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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

Winter 2012-13 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 3

The #1 Question:

Is it Good for the Children?

By Patti Panetti, Youth Program Coordinator, Rock Hill Parks, Recreation & Tourism and Jason Weil, City of Rock Hill

Sometimes it just takes one question to put things in motion.

Rock Hill’s Commission for Children and Youth, a citizen commission supported by the Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department, provided the spark for a new initiative when it launched an awareness campaign in 2006. The #1 Question: "Is it Good for the Children?" is an initiative that asks partners to consider, "Is it Good for the Children?" when making decisions that impact the community.

At the beginning of the campaign, the Commission appointed a group of civic minded individuals to serve as Ambassadors for the #1 Question, helping to spread the word and recruit partners to join the effort. As a result, the City of Rock Hill and more than 25 other local agencies and businesses have since collaborated to infuse their strategic planning and decision-making processes with an awareness of the needs of children. Each entity has developed its own approach to ensure

that children and youth remain a high priority.

To bring the #1 Question close to home, the City of Rock Hill formed an employee task force charged with developing a training module for all 800 city employees to encourage decisions that improve children’s outcomes. The training highlights indicators of child well-being in Rock Hill, introduces the #1 Question initiative, and concludes by asking each department and employee to make specific commitments, such as volunteering in the community, being involved in a Career Day at local schools, or participating in mentoring or job shadowing programs. Additionally, the city task force has created opportunities for employees such as “lunch and learn” sessions on childhood obesity, child psychology, and mentoring. The City has also hosted a #1 Question Expo where 40 vendors – including the Department of Social Services, school board, and local nonprofit organizations – answered questions for employees and their children.

Local businesses have adopted the focus of the #1 Question in different ways. Comporium Communications has included the #1 Question in its Guiding Principles for their corporation, while Family Trust Credit Union has given twentyfour $250.00 teacher grants each year along with many other projects.

One business partner, Williams and Fudge, Inc. provides meeting space free of charge for an annual summit on children’s issues, hosted by the Commission for Children and Youth and The #1 Question Ambassadors. This year’s summit focused on childhood obesity and helped fuel efforts of the Commission and the Rock Hill school district on changes to school lunch policies, ensuring that students have access to nutritious food. Additionally, several organizations including the City of Rock Hill, Upper Palmetto YMCA, the York County Health Dept., Winthrop University and representatives from The #1 Question are working together to address the

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

high childhood obesity levels as an ACHIEVE NRPA Community.

Other projects of the #1 Question initiative include a biannual newsletter and an annual report on the state of children in Rock Hill. And most recently, an award program called the Champion for Children has been created to recognize an individual or business that exemplifies The #1 Question: “Is It Good for the Children?”

Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism offers a range of opportunities for youth participation in local government and community service and even received national recognition from organizations such as America’s Promise Alliance for those efforts. A strong local youth council raises funds to provide grants for youth service projects that benefit children and families throughout the city. They also work with the police department and community organizations to sponsor forums on youth issues. Members of the city’s youth council have even surveyed their peers to provide input to the city’s vision planning. Only a limited amount of city general funding is needed to support the wide variety of youth programming offered.

Local elected officials have played important leadership and convening roles to sustain Rock Hill’s focus on children. Mayor Doug Echols actively promotes the training for city employees, and City Council appoints the Commission for Children and Youth. The Mayor’s wife, Sylvia, is involved as the chair for the Ambassadors for the #1 Question. Indeed, this campaign has inspired a community from the individual employee to the local business to the Mayor’s Office, to consider the needs of children in a new way by asking one simple question: The #1 Question: “Is It Good for the Children?”

by Jim Headley and Joe Ross

The Association Report

As we wrap up our year both personally and professionally, we certainly hope you made the most of your experiences within SCRPA. We have known for years that your relationship with SCRPA is one that mirrors any relationship with your job back home. We would like to take this time to review a few things that everyone can be proud that your association accomplished with your efforts.

Legislatively, we made some new inroads with several members we have not had the occasion of working with previously. We were able to get municipal and county agencies to reduce SLED check fees for volunteers from $25 down to $8. A revised lifeguard mandate was passed that allows agencies the ability to be flexible while still providing the safety and security that our patrons require. We have also begun to make inroads with several new state agencies while continuing to foster one that we’ve always had with the State Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.

Our Recreational Arts & Programming branch has been extremely busy since the restructuring 2 years ago. The senior citizens committee of that branch held another very successful trip to Springmaid Resort in Myrtle Beach. Thank you to the co-chairs Kim O’Brien Bowers and Cherlyn Garrett-Kee of Irmo-Chapin Recreation Commission. The lifeguard competition went off smoothly and we continue to receive positive press form the Charleston Post and Courier. Thanks to everyone at Charleston County PRC, Mt. Pleasant Recreation and other agencies who assisted in that event.

Finally, the programming section of the branch completed three trainings this year and has the Programming Summit ready to go February 27- March 1. Special thanks to the entire Program Summit Planning Committee and especially Julie Edmonds for making it all happen.

The SC Athletic Programs Branch conducted statewide tournaments throughout the year and also hosted the NFL PPK program again. They will conclude the year with the Sports Management Institute in December.

The Executive Level Management Branch continues to be an active place for our administrators throughout the state. They hosted three workshops including the Southern Leisure Management and Trends Institute in Aiken in January. They also held a workshop for professional administrators and the first (in 26 years) directors only roundtable that proved extremely beneficial for all that attended.

The awards committee did a great job of taking on a very difficult task given to them by last year’s board and making some great changes to our awards process. We hope everyone agrees that they did a tremendous job.

Our marketing committee had a lot going on this year as we expanded the publication of the magazine from two to four issues annually. Special thanks goes out to Laurie Helms and Chris Pounder for making it all happen and helping set us up for years to come. Thank you to the agencies that submitted content. As a result we have a great publication serving the membership.

The entire board of directors has been hard at work and they are to be commended for a job well done. Thanks everyone!

It is easy to sit on the sidelines and allow things to be done, but it is for the betterment of you professionally and personally to put forth a little effort to enhance the lives of your fellow professionals, citizens and family. We would once again like to thank everyone who has put forth a little effort this year and we look forward to seeing you and your agency back next year! We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday season.

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Experience EVENT

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s Special Event

The Parks and Resource Management Branch conducted one workshop this year and hosted the National Playground Safety Inspectors Course and Exam.

Our Conference program committee was extremely busy and hosted the 65th Annual Conference in Greenville. Thanks to Joe Lanahan, Sherry Wilson and the entire upstate for being our host.

Special thanks to the Greenville County Recreation District for all their hard work and assistance throughout the event.

House

Park & Run

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 18 Sunday, May at 8 a.m.

Registration begins $5 per person Activity # ____ Almost-a-Mile Starts at 9 a.m. on day of race $18 / $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 and plant All ages (children Monterey Drive the nature center plants Bring her to race day Wolfe Park, 3700 her on a spring 8:45 a.m. on Celebrate Mom! home. Lead wildflowers.

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11, 1 p.m. - 4 Sunday, May W. Franklin Ave. 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 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 Center, Nature Westwood Hills required no registration Free

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Winter 2012-13 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 5

2012

SCRPA

By Laurie Helms

Highlights

The benefits of awards programs are many.

They recognize outstanding individuals,

Individual SCRPA Member Awards

groups, facilities and programs. They are motivating, energizing forces for many, and the award recipients become role models, providing a learning opportunity for others.

But awards programs have downsides, too. The application process can be cumbersome and time consuming in an environment where there’s barely enough time to get the actual job done. Awards programs sometimes grow out of control – losing focus and offering too many awards. Entities may see no benefit to participating.

Overall, the benefits outweigh the downsides to awards programs. So, to continue to showcase South Carolina’s outstanding contributions to the park and recreation profession, the SCRPA Board asked the 2012 Awards and Citations Committee to revamp the program. The committee researched other awards programs and used input from an ad hoc committee of SCRPA members for guidance. Additionally, the committee wanted to see more agencies participate in the program and consequently produced an inviting, concise brochure to promote the revamped program.

Here we’ll describe the structure of the new program as we, more importantly, highlight and congratulate the 2012 SCRPA Award winners for doing their part to “Celebrate Community through People, Parks and Programs.”

Members of the 2012 Awards and Citations Committee: Beth Scheimann (Chair), Laurie Helms (Vice Chair), Jamie Cathey, Seth Holley, Callie Wise. Thanks also to Melissa Williams, SCRPA, for contributing to this article.

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

The SCRPA Young Professional of the Year nominee must be in the parks and recreation field at least three years but not longer than fifteen years. He or she must be certified through the NRPA. This award considers service, leadership, writing and research, and character.

Young Professional of the Year

Jessica Cook Campbell

Recreation Program Supervisor, City of Aiken

Jessica Campbell is a native of Aiken and graduated from the University of South Carolina-Aiken with a BS in Exercise and Sports Science in 2002.

In 2004 she became a Recreation Coordinator for the City of Aiken working at the H. Odell Weeks Activities Center. Her initial responsibilities included day camps, soliciting sponsors, scheduling classes, promoting and implementing recreation classes, managing seasonal staff, running the fitness center and other duties. She is now responsible for Aiken’s two largest recreation centers—Smith-Hazel and the H. Odell Weeks Activities Center. She oversees 5 full time and 25 part time/seasonal staff members in addition to supervising several special events.

Her Director states, “Jessica exemplifies professionalism in every aspect of her responsibilities; she takes charge

without prompting from me or others, she sets the level of standards in her programs and in her management style and then requires the same of her staff. Jessica is one of the rising stars within South Carolina.” Each day, Campbell shares her passion for her position and profession, her energy and her sense of humor with staff and clients. She is dependable and self-motivated.

Campbell is a graduate of the SC LEAD program and has served the association on the Awards and Citations Committee, as the SCRPA Secretary, and now as a board member.

A busy wife and mother, Campbell is also a long-time member of the First Baptist Church and has a passion for drag racing.

The SCRPA Professional of the Year nominee must be in the parks and recreation field at least 15 years and a member of SCRPA for at least five years and professionally certified through the NRPA. This award considers service, leadership, writing and research, and character.

Professional of the Year

Nancy Callahan Recreation Division Director, Greenville County Recreation District

Nancy Callahan first experienced the recreation industry as a camp counselor for a local YMCA. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation & Park Administration from Clemson University and today serves as a Recreation Division Director for Greenville County Recreation District, overseeing recreation programs, summer camps, athletics, community centers, sports tourism, and the therapeutics division.

Hired initially as a Special Events Coordinator for Greenville County, Callahan’s responsibilities broadened over the years.

After a management restructuring, her responsibilities more than tripled. She would now manage the expansive athletics program, five indoor community centers, a

comprehensive therapeutics program, and special events. Callahan’s superior organizational skills, dynamic leadership abilities, and powerful communication skills helped grow these programs exponentially.

Callahan played a key role in her agency’s new therapeutics home, and she worked to establish a new sports tourism department. Through a partnership with the local Convention & Visitors Bureau, the two agencies work together to recruit tournaments and events, generating tourism dollars for the County. Callahan is highly regarded among her peers, well known in the community, and has mentored dozens of current young park and recreation professionals over the years.

A member of SCRPA since 1979, she has served on the Recreation Arts and Programming Branch Board and various committees including conference program, personnel standards, and membership.

Callahan is a devoted wife and mother and an active member of Cross Road Baptist Church where she has been involved in several of the church’s ministries as well as their recreation committee.

The Robert L. Reid Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame Award is a combination of two previous SCRPA awards. This award recognizes lifetime achievement in the parks and recreation profession and is awarded to a professional or citizen with a minimum of twenty years of service to the profession. The recipient must have actively promoted the park and recreation profession through presentations, writings and service in their community, the state and our nation.

Robert L. Reid Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame Award

Philip G. Powell

Powell brought to the forefront the importance of recreation and the positive impact that it makes in the lives of the citizens in the community. His passion for this field is unparalleled and his dedication and work ethic unquestionable. When not busy with his job, Powell stayed busy in his role as devoted husband and father.

He would never take credit for the wonderful facilities and achievements that the town was able to make during his tenure; however, most people in Cheraw certainly understand that it was with Phil Powell’s leadership that these accomplishments were achieved.

Parks and Recreation Director, Town of Cheraw

Phil Powell served as the Parks and Recreation Director for the Town of Cheraw for over 30 years having “retired” last year only to move over to the Chamber of Commerce where he now serves as its president. Powell was the consummate professional and demonstrated not only an expertise in the area of parks and recreation but also in the quality of life needs for the community. His “touch” and “vision” can be seen throughout the community as one experiences the Riverside Park, the Arrowhead Park athletic facility, the Cheraw Community Center, the Theatre on the Green, the Dizzy Gillespie Park and the annual Spring Festival and the Fall Jazz Festival.

Phil Powell (third from left) with his family.

Award Highlights Continued on page 8

Winter 2012-13 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 7

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SCRPA

District, Branch and State Merit Awards

Parks and Programs Excellence

Four District and Branch Awards were given this year in recognition of outstanding service. Congratulations to these award recipients:

Under the new awards program, awards can be given for Parks Excellence and Programming Excellence in two different population categories: 30,000 and under and over 30,000. Thus a total of four awards can be given each year.

The Parks Excellence award recognizes a new, renovated or revitalized park.

The Programming Excellence award recognizes any recreation program or special event an agency offers.

Southern District Merit Award

Love Ishie Western District Merit Award

Joni Dilworth

From the agencies receiving the Parks and Programming Excellence awards, one is chosen as the Agency of the Year.

South Carolina Athletics Program (SCAP) Professional of the Year (2011)

Agency of the Year

Robin Cooper

Parks Excellence Award (Population under 30,000)

Conway Recreation Center

Ethnic Minority Branch Professional of Year

City of Conway Recreation Department

Lawanda Curry With the new awards program, the State Merit Award Winner is now chosen from the District Merit Award winners and the Branch Professional award winners. The State Merit Award recognizes significant contributions and outstanding performance in the areas of leadership, job performance, public relations, and education.

State Merit Award Winner

Lawanda Curry Community Center District Manager, Greenville County Recreation District

Lawanda Curry graduated from Clemson University with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management and began her recreation career in the late 1990’s with Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism as a Recreation Coordinator, responsible for the planning and implementation of programs. After a few years, she moved back to her home town and was hired as the local Recreation Director in Georgia. In that position, she oversaw the administration, personnel, maintenance, and programming of the recreation department, in addition to the County’s two parks.

A new position was being created in Greenville County Recreation District; Curry took a leap of faith and applied. In this role, her responsibilities include overseeing a number of facilities – managing everything from personnel, maintenance, programs, budgets, partnerships, grants, and more. Curry works tirelessly with staff, volunteers, and partners, and she is an organized, professional employee -- a mentor, cheerleader, and supervisor.

Curry is seen as a role model in the community by her positive attitude, professional demeanor, development of partnerships, philosophy of inclusion, and her commitment to improve the quality of recreation services to the community. She is a graduate of the 2012 SC LEAD Program, and she is an NRPA Certified Parks and Recreation Professional.

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

A 2002 community survey revealed that the #1 recreation need, as perceived by the citizens of Conway, was an indoor recreation facility. Two well attended public meetings were held to gain input from the citizens.

Local media was highly supportive and promoted the planning process and kept the citizens informed on the progress of the project.

The City put together a funding package relying on partnerships and trust from the community. Conway partnered with Horry County and Horry County Schools on tax increment financing (TIF) in the amount of $3.5 million. A local foundation purchased naming rights to the gym floors for $125,000. General fund allocations as well as hospitality fee funds and a HUD grant combined for a total of $6.2 million to make this project a reality.

The 60,000 square foot facility offers: a cardio room; a fitness room; a weight room; an indoor swimming pool with play features; a double gym with seating for 200 per court; a 1/10th of a mile track; shower and locker facilities and meeting space. The total cost for the Recreation Center was $5.4 million. The remaining project balance was used to build multi-purpose fields, a concession stand, walking trails and improve accessibility to the existing park amenities.

Since the September 1, 2011 grand opening, the popularity of the Conway Recreation Center demonstrates the City of Conway Recreation Department’s success in delivering their mission statement: To enhance the quality of life for all citizens through the development of facilities, services and programs, that promote a lifestyle of wellness and physical activities for all ages.

Parks Excellence Award (Population over 30,000)

Greenville Hospital System Swamp Rabbit Trail Greenville County Recreation District

The program has grown into a unified aspect where the participants and volunteers work side by side to write their own shows, creating characters and situations and adapting other shows to fit the needs of the participants. Performances over the years have included: The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, The Elves and the Shoemaker, Dandelion, and original shows like the Knight Story and The Legendary Circus. The program is designed to allow special needs and main stream actors of all ages and abilities the opportunity to gain personal growth working on a common goal while breaking down barriers related to those with disabilities within the community.

Champions for our Community Greenville County Council and other community leaders had great vision when they decided to secure an abandoned rail line and convert it into the trail that is enjoyed today. In 2007, with the passage of a county-wide hospitality tax, Greenville County Recreation District (Greenville Rec) had $2 million dollars for public projects and was uniquely poised to turn the railroad bed into a recreation and transportation amenity that connects communities. That $2 million allowed for the construction of 10 miles of trail.

Getting creative, Greenville Rec initiated a Community Partners program inviting businesses within a three minute walk to partner by providing public parking or restrooms. In return, Greenville Rec markets these trailside businesses including identification on the free maps distributed at Greenville and Travelers Rest City Halls. This partnership saved the Recreation District money while ensuring that trail travelers are never any further than one mile from a restroom and always have a place to park. The cost savings are obvious, but more importantly it drives, or should we say bikes, business into those stores and restaurants everyday which is economic impact in its most tangible and grassroots form.

A new award category was created to celebrate individual citizens and community organizations across South Carolina. The Champion for our Community Award can recognize one individual and organization from each SCRPA district. These awards are presented locally at an event selected by the nominating agency so the entire community can celebrate together with the award recipient.

Champion for our Community: Western District, Organization

LiveWell Greenville LiveWell Greenville is a partnership of dozens of public and private organizations that aim to make Greenville County a healthier place to live, work, and play. Formed three years ago by the Piedmont Health Care Foundation, the organization has engaged more than 100 key partners in crafting plans to create policies, systems, and environments in the community to make living well easier, safe places to walk and bike, healthier foods in schools and workplaces, nutritious snacks in child after school centers, and better access to parks! All of these and other positive initiatives are shepherded by LiveWell Greenville, a genuine “champion for our community”!

Programming Excellence Award (Population over 30,000)

United Players Theater City of Charleston Therapeutic Recreation

The Unified Players Theater is a year round drama program offered through the City of Charleston Therapeutic Recreation Division, integrating main stream and special needs actors to produce quality drama programs for the community. The program began in 2008 as an opportunity for actors to learn how to be on stage, project their voices and be more creative; it also introduced fine arts components into recreation.

Award Highlights Continued on page 10

Winter 2012-13 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 9

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SCRPA

Champion for our Community: Central District, Individual

Champion for our Community: Western District, Individual

David Wright

Pam Dean

David began his involvement with ICRC as Dixie Youth Umpire 35 years ago. Since then, he has been behind the plate and in the field molding the lives of community youth and setting an example for parents and coaches. Additionally, David has supported the agency by serving on numerous Advisory Committees and as a member of the Strategic Plan Task Force. This Task Force was responsible for developing a conceptual framework for the Commission’s operations and capital improvements over the next ten years. Known for his dependability, integrity, and honesty, David can always be counted on to assist the agency, from announcing the players at an All-Star tournament to advising and supporting the Commission

CREATING GREAT PLACES

Pam has been the Executive Director of the Carolina Miracle League since 2007 and is known for her tenacious approach to “getting the job done”. Pam rarely takes no for an answer and is constantly looking for ways to improve Miracle Park at the Spartanburg County Parks and Recreation’s, North Spartanburg Sports Complex. This facility is a 6 field baseball/softball complex of which Field “E” is the dedicated, fully accessible Carolina Miracle League field. Pam is an activist for the Special Needs Community, concerned citizen and true “Friend” and partner of the Spartanburg County Parks and Recreation Department.

Legislators of the Year SCRPA periodically recognizes legislators who have assisted the parks and recreation profession in serving the citizens of South Carolina.

These awards are presented locally so the entire community can celebrate together with the award recipient. Two members of the general assembly received this award this year.

Legislator of the Year

Representative Leon Stavrinakis House District 119

Rep. Stavrinakis, a member of the House of Representatives since 2007, was instrumental in drafting and helping push the lifeguard regulations reform last year. This common sense approach has been his style since he first started public service work. While on Charleston County Council for eight years, Stavrinakis was instrumental in the passing of the half cent sales tax referendum, appropriating funds for Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission to double in size from 5,000 to 10,000 acres of parkland.

Legislator of the Year

Representative Phyllis Henderson House District 21

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Rep. Henderson was instrumental in re-drafting and helping push the lifeguard regulations reform last year, allowing for Greenville County and all publicly owned swimming pools to be able to operate in a more business like manner. In 2000, while on the Greenville County Council, she saw the need for a comprehensive county-wide parks and recreation needs assessment study, and she helped fund it by giving up some needs from within her own district.

Thanks to these two general assembly members for helping eliminate over burdening regulations and enabling the parks and recreation profession to become more business-like.

Greer Coaches Get

About Concussions

By Red Watson

The average coach or parent wouldn’t know that most concussions occur without losing consciousness or that once someone has a concussion, they are at increased risk for another concussion, or even that children and teens take longer to heal after being concussed.

When Sports Spine & Industrial (SSI), a local physical therapy and performance training center, and Riddell Sports approached the staff from the City of Greer Parks and Recreation Department about partnering to educate youth coaches on this important subject, we jumped at the chance. “We are always open to educating our coaches about safety, and we felt this would be a great addition to the National Association of Youth Sports (NAYS) certification that we require of all head coaches”, Ann Cunningham, the department director said.

Soccer, baseball, football and cheerleading coaches attended the clinic that included a power point presentation, a speaker from Riddell Sports on properly fitting youth equipment, and an open Q&A session. “We are very thankful to Riddell Sports and SSI for providing this training to our coaches free of charge”, Cory Holtzclaw, athletics supervisor said. Greer Parks and Recreation intends to make this clinic part of their mandatory initial coaches meeting at the beginning of every sports season. “Hopefully, coaches will pass on the information they learn to their parents.

This is obviously a dangerous condition that often goes unnoticed because of mild or delayed symptoms. If we can catch just one concussion, then it’s a step in the right direction” Cunningham said.

members with Certified Youth Sports (CYS) credentials to train coaches for initial level certification onsite. All coachs’ certification is paid for and provided by the department.

In addition to the evident matter at hand, there are additional benefits involved. Trainings like these can hopefully filter coaches, parents and players to the appropriate facilities to take advantage of the many services they offer.

Cunningham added, “If we can help local businesses, and assist in supporting our local economy, we certainly will”.

The end resulteveryone benefits...the Greer Recreation Department, business partners, the coaches, the parents, and most importantly – our youth.

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Updating training and bringing new ideas is nothing new to this department. They recently added a budget item specifically for providing first aid kits to all camp counselors, head coaches, and volunteers. The department took advantage of the NAYS clinic at the SCRPA state conference, and now has two staff

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4/27/2012 11:10:03 AM

Winter 2012-13 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 11

By Leigh Cheatham, Richland County Recreation

The team huddles up and with the help of coaches,

collegiate or professional NFL football, doesn’t

the quarterback calls the play. The team then lines up

it? Not quite but the Carolina Panthers Challenger

and the quarterback throws a quick pass to another

Flag Football League practices and plays like the

player, who runs it in for the winning touchdown.

big leagues, it’s just that this league is for kids and

Sounds like a typical Saturday or Sunday of

adults with intellectual and physical challenges.

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

Over the past five years, the Richland County Recreation Commission (RCRC) has received $25,000 from the Carolina Panthers Charities to fund the Carolina Panthers Challenger Flag Football League.

Funding helps to purchase jerseys, equipment, team travel and trophies. The funding also allows for the program to give back to the local community. Over the past few years, the league has donated $1,000 to the Special Olympics of South Carolina.

Since the program began, Mr. Andrew Scott, Adaptive Recreation Supervisor for RCRC, has overseen the success of the league. Starting with only 15 kids in 2008, participation has doubled and with the addition of a cheerleading squad in 2010, the league is complete. “I’m thrilled with every opportunity to watch and experience our players and cheerleaders as they display their abilities. They perform with so much energy and pleasure”, says Scott.

The success of the program not only comes from great leadership, development and funding but from the families who participate year after year.

All of our players and cheerleaders are special but one in particular, Milton Fredrick, has the heart of a champion. Milton is a junior in high school and walks with the aid of crutches. His abilities are beyond amazing and he has been playing in the league since the beginning. His mother says that it’s a “family affair”, having invited aunts, uncles and extended family members to see Milton play.

The past October, the team travelled to Greenville, South Carolina to compete in its first Special Olympics of South Carolina Fall games. The game featured our team versus a team from Sumter County. Our Challenger team brought home the gold, beating the Sumter Assassins, 38-13.

Winter 2012-13 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 13

Making a

Differenc Through Expanding Services

By Steve Hutton and Susie Goudy

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

ce

The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) recently began an initiative to expand the agency’s offerings to individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities, broadening both active recreation and social opportunities. CCPRC’s goal is to help participants develop lifelong leisure skills, enabling them to participate in recreation programs throughout the year.

New adaptive on-water classes teach participants alternate paddling techniques and ways to modify canoes, kayaks, and equipment.

Last summer, James Island County Park (JICP) hosted the Charleston Chargers Special Olympic Kayak Team, whose members demonstrated some amazing skills. New climbing harnesses give access to the vertical world at JICP’s Climbing Wall and the Odyssey Challenge Course. Recently, groups from Pattison’s Academy and North Charleston High School took advantage of these opportunities with great success and fun. And, archery, the newest activity offered by our outdoor adventure program, is an easily adaptable activity that has already become a popular class.

In addition to these active ventures, CCPRC offers social opportunities for participants with cognitive disabilities. In May 2012, more than 120 people with special needs, along with their families and friends, attended the first Dance Under the Stars at the Mount Pleasant Pier. The event was so popular that a second dance was hosted this past fall. The next event in this series was the Holiday Hoedown at Wannamaker County Park in December. Participants danced to a DJ, enjoyed refreshments with Mrs. Claus, and watched an ice carving demonstration.

In spring 2013, CCPRC will partner with the City of Charleston Recreation Department’s special needs theater group to present a murder mystery party at JICP. In summer 2013, CCPRC will partner with Camp Rise Above (www.campriseabove.org). This nonprofit organization provides life-changing camp experiences to children with serious illnesses, disabilities, and other challenges. Programs at JICP will serve campers with heart defects, sickle cell diseases, cancer, and children of deployed military parents. CCPRC looks forward to partnering with Camp Rise Above and helping these kids have a great summer camp experience!

For more information on CCPRC’s programs and events, visit www.ccprc.com.

Winter 2012-13 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 15

MPRD

P rogra m

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

By Steve Gergick, Mount Pleasant Recreation Department

In April of 2012 The Mount Pleasant Recreation Department (MPRD) was approached by one of our residents, Ryan Knapp, about a vision he had for utilizing select local high school and college athletes as “Role Models” for our children in our Youth Sports programs.

He recalled a time as a high school basketball player when his coach asked for a show of hands of those who thought of themselves to be role models and noticed that Ryan and his friends had not raised their hands when he asked the question. Then the coach brought his 10 year old son on to the floor with a big group of his friends to play basketball with the team. They didn’t spend any time on drills, plays, or strategy; they just played with the little kids who both literally and figuratively looked up to the high school players. The coach never verbalized his point during or after practice. He didn’t have to.

Ryan Knapp presented an idea to more effectively address the intangible lessons taught through sports such as leadership, sportsmanship, hard work, etc. by tapping into the valuable resource of the high school and college aged role models whom the kids idolize in their respective sports. In addition to possessing the ability and knowledge to provide teaching opportunities within their respective sports, these young men and women have the ability to further the

intangible mission with words and through the example they set. Most importantly, they command the ears of our young kids and speak with credibility.

With Mr. Knapp’s assistance, MPRD developed the Role Model Program and implemented it into our Fall Youth Football season. Through coordination with Wando High School Athletic Director Bob Hays and Head Football Coach Jimmy Noonan “Role Model” high school football players were selected and scheduled to show up in uniform at practices for our Youth Football teams. The Role Models were introduced to the teams and participated with the children in blocking and tackling drills and helped coach them through the practices. At the conclusion of practice the Role Models briefly spoke to the children about the importance of school, teamwork, dedication, helping others and other character building traits that will help them develop as individuals and as citizens of our community.

The response from parents, coaches and most importantly players has been tremendous as seen in the faces of our children and expressed in some of the emails received following the visits: “…my/our experience was great and would love to have them back. Some of them attended our game yesterday and the boys were so impressed. “

“My team had one of the best practices we have had the entire season. I guess my players saw who the varsity players were and were trying their best to impress them.”

“I know how much our kids in the youth program look up to the young men in your program and the young men you had out there with us far exceeded my expectations.”

“I am proud that our town has a football program that can help to produce examples like these young men for the youth of our town to emulate.”

This has become a winning program for all parties involved. MPRD and Wando High School both receive positive feedback from the community. The Youth Football coaches are excited about the help at practice from the Wando players. The Wando football players receive recognition and grow from an opportunity to serve the community, and the children in our Youth Sports enjoy the interaction with the Wando athletes and benefit from seeing their “Role Models” taking time to help others.

Though his vision, initiative and involvement as a volunteer, Ryan Knapp has proven how “Anyone can make a difference”.

Winter 2012-13 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 17

Ready, SET, 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...

By Katlin Silberg City of Charleston

...a great match.

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. Odell 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!

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

The City of Charleston Recreation Department offers many programs year round for adults and children to support healthy living. Providing exercise classes each day and team sports provide physical activity for thousands of people in the Charleston area. The City’s Recreation Department mission is to provide and promote healthy recreational opportunities for our citizens through people, parks, and programs.

Each year the Recreation Department strives to implement new programs to keep children involved and to learn the importance of physical activity and healthy eating. By developing new programs that encourage healthy lifestyles in an encouraging atmosphere, we can provide children with the positive building blocks for a healthy future. The City of Charleston is proud to introduce the new program “Ready, Set, Run” this winter. “Ready, Set, Run” is a program developed by the National Youth Sports Alliance (NAYS) to introduce children to the sport of running while encouraging a healthy lifestyle and self confidence. The program

is a twelve week lesson based program that includes games, techniques, and discussion topics.

The children set small goals throughout the program with the end result being that a child can run a 5k or more. We have reached out to the community and have already received volunteers from the Charleston Running Club and other local runners to help monitor and mentor the children in their 12 week journey. We will be starting our program mid January and conclude the 12 week program the week of the Cooper River Bridge Run by participating in the Cooper River Bridge Run. In the future, the City of Charleston will work to implement this program in all of the major communities in the City. It is our hope that this program will bring not only active children together but also those who may be looking to start exercising, make friends, or to just have fun running. This will add another great program that will help better serve our community and hopefully turn our communities into a more healthy place and make a difference in our participants lives.

SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation & Parks Association

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

www.playworldsystems.com

1-800-459-7241

info@playworldpreferred.com

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