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2 -- THE GAME PLAN MAGAZINE: 2019 SUMMER ISSUE -- www.richlandcountyrecreation.com

In This Issue:A Letter from our Executive

Director ........................................ pg 2

Make A Big Splash ................... pg 3

Summer Fun with Super

Seniors ...........................................pg 4

Keeping Up with the

Campers! .................................... pg 6

Registration is open for

Fall 2019 Sports! ....................... pg 9

Staying Fit All Summer

Long ............................................ pg 10

Serving the Community through

Volunteerism ............................ pg 13

Beautifying Our Parks:

We’re Always Improving...... pg 14

Upcoming Events ................... pg 15

Mission:

Dedicated to enriching lives and connecting communities through diverse recreational opportunities.

We Promote Equal

Opportunity

The Richland County Recreation Commission is dedicated to the concept of equal opportunity. The Commission will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, national origin, or marital status, in its employment practices or in its facility use/participation policies.

Greetings from The Richland County Recreation Commission Family,

I can’t believe that I am upon my one-year anniversary as the Executive Director. I am so proud to be a part of this Commission, where we are dedicated to enriching lives and connecting communities through many diverse recreational opportunities.

The last year has been filled with new experiences and chances to impact the citizens through recreation and athletics. We are building a team of professionals that are committed to making each experience a positive one for our citizens.

Lakita WatsonExecutive Director

The summer edition of our game plan is filled with information and opportunities for all of the citizens of Richland County. We are very excited about our Summer Camps for the kids and also free swim for the month of June and July at our pools.

I look forward, as the Executive Director, to leading The Richland County Recreation Commission to the next level.

Follow Us on Social

@richlandcountyrec @richlandrec

Executive DirectorA LETTER FROM THE

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Richland County Recreation Commission promotes aquatics throughout our community in several different ways. We have wonderful facilities, which includes Trenholm Park Pool, St. Andrews Park Pool, Hopkins Park Pool and a state of the art swimming facility located in Eastover, SC.

We encourage the community to take advantage of our swimming facilities. Swimming lessons will be offered for children who ages range from 6-17 years old. The swim lessons are $30 per session; each session consists of six classes.

We also offer free swim lessons for adults and seniors during the summer months at Trenholm Park Pool from 5:00-5:45 pm on Saturday and Sundays.

While cooling off and having fun, swimming is one of the best exercises the human body can experience. Swimming is low impact on the joints and provides a full body workout.

Pools are also available for private rental. The fee is $225.00 in 2 hour increments. Private parties, doesn’t apply

to groups, are available on Saturdays only from 10:00 am-2:00 pm or 6:00-8:00 pm at all our pools. Lifeguards will be onsite for all rentals to ensure the safety of all patrons that are utilizing the pool. Have a safe and wonderful summer! STAY COOL AROUND THE POOL!

Pool Hours:Eastover Pool Thursday and Friday: 2:00-7:00 pm;

Saturday and Sunday: 2:00-6:00 pm

Hopkins Pool Thursday and Friday: 2:00-7:00 pm;

Saturday and Sunday: 2:00-6:00pm

St. Andrews Pool Tuesday-Friday: 2:00-7:00 pm;

Saturday and Sunday: 2:00-6:00 pm

Trenholm Pool Tuesday-Friday: 2:00-7:00 pm;

Saturday and Sunday: 2:00-6:00 pm

4 -- THE GAME PLAN MAGAZINE: 2019 SUMMER ISSUE -- www.richlandcountyrecreation.com

The Cambridge Dictionary defines insurance as “an agreement in which you pay the company money, either in one payment, or in regular payments, and they pay your costs, for example, if you lose or damage something, or have an accident, injury, etc.” With the high cost of insurance, consumers often look for the best insurance plans that are cost effective. But what are you doing about insuring your cardiovascular system and your brain? What can you do to reduce your risk of becoming one of the 50 million people estimated to be diagnosed with dementia by the year 2050? Individually, everyone has a personal obligation to reduce personal risk, and increase the chance for a long and healthy life. What can you control?

Get active Aim for a minimum of 10,000 steps per day. Walk during telephone calls. Park a little further away from the grocery store. Get your steps in, and invite a friend to be your walking buddy. Exercise helps

guard against depression, reduces inflammation, promotes a sense of well-being, reduces stress, improves sleep, improves digestion, promotes healthy weight loss, improves cardio respiratory function, lowers blood pressure and reduces risk of developing diabetes and possibly dementia.

Control cholesterol Saturated fats, like those in meat, partially hydrogenated oils, and trans fats, clog arteries. Processed, fast, and fried foods are loaded with artery clogging cholesterol. Consume leafy greens, whole grains, fruit, vegetables, legumes, heart healthy fats such as avocados and olive oil, lean meats and fish, and drink plenty of water. Fill your plate with 50% fruits and veggies, 25% lean protein and 25% starches. Limit fried food, fast food, baked goods and processed food.

Stop smoking Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung disease, diabetes, COPD, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Secondhand smoke exposure contributes to nearly 41,000 deaths a year among non-smoking adults and 400 infant deaths each year.

Lose weight and manage blood pressure Doing so will reduce strain on the heart, arteries and the kidneys.

Control blood sugar Reduce the risk of diabetes and prediabetes with healthy food choices and regular exercise. Reduce portion sizes and servings. Avoid soft drinks. Get moving to reduce blood sugar levels. The American Diabetes Association reports that 14% of the adult population in South Carolina has diabetes.

Socialize and learn a new skill Mentally stimulating pursuits have been associated with

Summer FunSuper Seniorswith

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reducing the risk of cognitive decline. Play brain games such as Sudoku, card games or word puzzles. Those who socialize with others enjoy better health, a stronger immune system, better mental health and a reduced risk of dementia.

Just like an insurance policy does not guarantee that nothing bad will happen. There are no guarantees when it comes to your health. However, you can greatly reduce of risk of disease, and enjoy your best life if you make smart choices. Being physically active, making food choices that will nourish your body, socializing with friends and family, managing blood sugar and blood pressure, watching your cholesterol and weight, getting restorative sleep, managing stress and not smoking will greatly reduce the risk of developing dementia.

Please join us for a class, program, activity, trip or special event at the Richland County Recreation Commission. Your health and well-being is important to us. Contact Lisa K. Smarr at Lisa@rcrc.state.sc.us or call (803) 699-7425.

UPCOMING SENIOR TRIPS

July 24 • 11:00 am-1:00 pm Seniors Pool Party (GFAAC) Eastover Pool Free Admission

August 23 • 9:00 am-8:00 pm Harrah’s Cherokee Casino (AAC) $50/person

September 13 • 9:30 am-5:00 pm Savannah Trolley Tour, Tanger Outlet and Paula Deen’s -”The Lady and Sons Restaurant (AAC) $90/person

For more information or to register, go to

www.richlandrec.com

6 -- THE GAME PLAN MAGAZINE: 2019 SUMMER ISSUE -- www.richlandcountyrecreation.com2019 Summer Mania

72019 Camp Sunshine

8 -- THE GAME PLAN MAGAZINE: 2019 SUMMER ISSUE -- www.richlandcountyrecreation.com

FREE ADMISSION • OPEN TO AGES 7-13Take your game to the next level! Pro Style Combine is designed to ensure every child has the

opportunity to play. This FREE non-contact football camp teaches the fundamentals of the sport of football. Campers will also get a chance participate in the NFL combine experience. Cleats or

athletic shoes and athletic shorts are recommended. Advance registration for this FREE event is required. For more information, call Matthew Parker (803) 741-7272 ext. 107 or register online at

WWW.RICHLANDREC.COM

SATURDAY, JULY 27, 2019 • 9:00 AM-12:30 PMKELLY MILL SPORTS COMPLEX • 171 BOMBING RANGE ROAD | ELGIN, SC 29045

AGES 7-13 • FREE ADMISSION • REGISTER BY JULY 26

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Get involved in fall sports at Richland County Recreation Commission! Register for leagues and get ready for fun and instruction. We also need volunteer coaches for our teams. You can find everything you need to know about these opportunities and more on our website at RichlandRec.com. You can also contact your local park or contact our Athletics Department at (803) 741-7272.

Pro-Style Combine Non-Contact Football Camp Date: July 27, 9:00 am-12:30 pm Ages: 7-13 Location: Kelly Mill Sports Complex Fee: Free RCRC is partnering with Andre Offing to offer a free Pro-Style Football Combine. If you are looking to take your game to the next level, or just to come out and compete and have fun, this program is for you!

Youth Soccer Clinic Date: August 17, 9:30 am-12:00 pm Ages: 3-10 Locations: St. Andrews Park Fee: Free Participants will be introduced the sport of soccer through fun and instructional soccer skills, teamwork drills and soccer conditioning exercises. Participants will need to wear athletic play clothes and bring a water bottle and are encouraged to wear youth shinguards to the clinic.

Shinkickers Soccer League Ages: 3-5 & 4-6 Locations: North Springs Park, Friarsgate Park, Meadowlake Park, St. Andrews Park and Trenholm Park Fee: $35/child Earn your goal in this fun and instructional soccer league. The

season will consist of six regular season games, and practices will start one to two weeks before the regular season game. All participants need to have youth sized shin guards and a water bottle. Jerseys and socks are provided.

Shortstops T-Ball League Ages: 4-6 Location: Caughman Road Park Fee: $35/child Batters up! Experience the benefits of team sports, fun, friends and fitness. The fee covers jersey, hat, socks and trophy. Parents will need to purchase baseball pants.

Adult Kickball League Ages: 18+ Locations: St. Andrews Park, North Springs Park and Caughman Road Park Fee: $200/team Become a Kickball All-Star and kick it up a notch. Play this retro elementary school game that competes on all skill levels and enjoy fellowship as well.

Adult Softball League Ages: 18+ Location: Killian Park Fee: $300/team Get a great workout playing a fun game, while fellowshipping with others. We will offer leagues on Monday and Thursdays. There will be an 8 game regular season with single elimination playoffs.

Men’s Basketball League Ages: 18+ Location: St. Andrews Park Fee: $300/team Get a great workout playing a fun game, while fellowshipping with others. We will offer leagues on Monday and Thursdays. There will be an 8 game regular season with single elimination playoffs.

Register nowwww.richlandrec.com

10 -- THE GAME PLAN MAGAZINE: 2019 SUMMER ISSUE -- www.richlandcountyrecreation.com

Staying FitAll Summer LongExercise Tips for the Summer HeatEarly this summer, Richland County had record temperatures, into the 100’s in May. Even if June cooled off a bit, many active adults realized that keeping up with their running and walking this summer would present a challenge of staying healthy while getting healthy.

Active.com has some great tips on beating the heat while you exercise this summer.

The time of day is important. Unless you are training for an event that takes place in the daytime heat, avoid exercising from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It’s the hottest part of the day. Generally, the early morning is the best time to workout, especially if it’s going to be a scorcher that day.

Wear loose, light-colored clothing. The lighter color will help reflect heat, and cotton material will help the evaporation of sweat. You may also want to try specially designed, “hi-tech” running shirts and shorts. They are often made from material meant to keep you cool.

Sunscreen is a must. I use SPF 45 just to be safe. It’s important to protect your skin. You can get burned and suffer sun damage to your skin even on cloudy days.

Stay hydrated. Before you go out, drink a glass or two of water. Carry a bottle of water or even a hydration pack such

Nutrition: Our Favorite Farmers Market FindsDid you ever wonder how you can both find the best produce of fruits and vegetables while at the same time contributing to your community? Well look no further! Listed below are various Farmers Market around the Columbia area. Many of these markets are recognized by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture and South Carolina Certified Grown organizations.

South Carolina State Market 3483 Charleston Highway West Columbia, SC 29172

Clemson Sandhill Farmers Market 900 Clemson Road Columbia, SC 29229

Cayce Farmer’s Market 2329 Charleston Highway Cayce, SC 29033

Heritage Fields Farm LLC 10259 Broad River Road Irmo, SC 29063

Blythewood Farmers Market 171 Langford Road Blythewood, SC 29016

as the CamelBak. Take a drink every 15 minutes, even when you’re not thirsty. When you’re done with your workout, have a few more glasses of water.

Replenish your electrolyte and salt intake while exercising. I like to use SUCCEED capsules--small, simple packs of sodium and electrolytes that keep my system in check. Sports drinks like Gatorade or Propel also offer a boost of electrolytes, but those with diabetes should be careful that some sports drinks contain excess sugar that could affect blood glucose levels.

If you can, choose shaded trails or pathways that keep you out of the sun. Walking trails at the Ridgewood Park Community Center and Polo Road Park (adjcent to Sesquitennial Park) offer a great place to walk in the shade most afternoons.

We hope that you’ll stay active through the summer months, and stay safe while doing so.

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Instructions:In a small bowl, whisk the lime juice, olive oil, agave, cilantro, chili powder, granulated garlic, ground pepper and salt.

Place all the veggies in a large bowl (except the avocado) and pour the dressing over them. Toss gently to combine well.

Add the avocado on top and toss gently or just leave them on top. Taste for seasoning and add more if needed.

Serve immediately with fresh pita bread, tortilla chips or a side of rice. Enjoy!

TIPS: Avocados that are just-ripe work the best and won’t get mushy in the salad.

Squeeze a little lime on the fresh-cut avocado to reduce browning.

To keep the salad looking vibrant, toss with the dressing, tomatoes, and avocado just before serving. Recipe courtesy of www.veganhuggs.com

Mental Health Matters: Optimize Your Mental Health • Get Moving!

Physical activity is important in preventing/reducing mental health. It helps your body release a chemical called endorphins which can improve our mood and make us feel good.

• Stay in the Moment It’s hard to avoid uncomfortable situations, but practicing mindfulness (focusing on one’s awareness of the present moment) can help with difficult circumstance and emotions.

• Stay Socially Connected Having a social support system (such as loving friends and family) plays a vital role in helping optimize mental well-being. On the other hand, non-social connectivity can lead to health problems that affect your body and mind.

• Assess Your Stress Finding ways to cope with stress can make a big difference when dealing with high levels of stressful situations. Framing these

experiences positively (through relaxation or meditation) and trying to avoid worrying about things you can’t change can be beneficial in maintaining your mental health.

For more information on optimizing your mental health, go to this website https://health.usnews.com/health-news/health-wellness/slideshows/11-simple-proven-ways-to-optimize-your-mental-health

Physical Activity Older Adults: Lifting Weights Can Boost Motivation to Lift WeightA recent study of 106 older adults (ages 65-75) inexperienced in exercising, participated in a re-sistance training program (desig-nated to train once a week, twice a week, and three times a week). Results showed that after nine-months of supervised training, participants were motivated to continue to lift weights and exer-cise. A year later, the same partici-pants were interviewed and nearly half of them were still training and lifting weights. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports

Information provided by: American Fitness® Magazine, Spring 2019

Avacado Black Bean Corn SaladIngredients:2 15 oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed

2 avocados, seeded and cubed. (*see note)

2 cups corn, fresh or frozen (thawed)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup red onion, diced

1/3 cup cilantro, rough chopped

Dressing

1/3 cup fresh lime juice, more if desired

3 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin

1 teaspoon agave (or any sweetener)

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste

fresh ground pepper, to taste

12 -- THE GAME PLAN MAGAZINE: 2019 SUMMER ISSUE -- www.richlandcountyrecreation.com

FREE ADMISSION AND OPEN TO ALL AGESJoin us for summer fun at the movies! Bring along a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy a starlit night of fun with friends and family! NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES! Gates open at 7:00 pm and movies will begin at dark. Food vendors and concessions will be available. Movie

dates, locations and shows are below. Movies are subject to change. For more information, call Takequita Lewis at (803) 741-7272 ext. 143.

Friday, July 12 Meadowlake Park

600 Beckman RoadColumbia, SC 29203

Showing: The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part

Friday, August 16 Gadsden Park Community Center

1668 South Goodwin CircleGadsden, SC 29052Showing: Shazam!

Friday, August 23 Ballentine Community Center

1009 Bickley RoadIrmo, SC 29063

Showing: Hotel Transylvania 3

Friday, October 4 Garners Ferry Sports Complex

8620 Garners Ferry RoadHopkins, SC 29061

Showing: The Black Panther

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Serving the CommunityThrough Volunteerism

Counselor-In-Training This summer, the Richland

County Recreation Commission

is launching its

Counselor-In-Training (C.I.T.)

program for teens ages

14-17. The Counselor-In-Training

program provides teenagers

with an environment where

they can learn and grow

socially and intellectually.

This program recognizes teens as unique individuals and offers them the learning tools necessary to gain knowledge, experience, and leadership qualities. RCRC has partnered with the Columbia Urban League to provide nearly 50 teens with summer leadership opportunities through summer camp. C.I.T.’s, under the guidance of the Camp Counselors, assist with program development and supervision of participants. They are required to lead and participate in activities such as crafts, games, and field trips.

Volunteerism RCRC recognized its coaches, REC members, C.I.T.’s and all other volunteers this June during its volunteer appreciation event. This family event was geared to recognize all RCRC volunteers and the wonderful contribution they

add to the agency.

RCRC presented a token of

appreciation to every volunteer

who registered for the event by

June 21st.

You can volunteer with RCRC

and help with the continuing

mission of enriching lives

and connecting communities

through diverse recreational

opportunities. For more

information about the C.I.T.

program and how to get you

teen registered please contact

Adairius Williams via email at

adairius@rcrc.state.sc.us or by

phone at (803)-741-7272

ext. 142.

14 -- THE GAME PLAN MAGAZINE: 2019 SUMMER ISSUE -- www.richlandcountyrecreation.com

Beautifying Our ParksWe’re Always Improving

Just like any homeowner will tell you, keeping property updated is an ongoing challenge. Richland County Recreation Commission maintains 52 facilities across 850 acres of Richland County. Trenholm Park, our oldest property, was constructed in 1965, while North Springs Community Center is only 4 years old. Our property management team is busy maintaining our parks and centers, making needed repairs, and planning improvement projects to benefit our patrons across the county.

In 2019, RCRC has put together a capital campaign that prioritizes safety first. According to Tiyana Henley, Property Management Manager, “Our parks need a facelift. They need repaved parking lots and proper lights for safety.” The goal for improvements is to make all parks and centers ADA accessible. “We also would

like to have facilities that can accommodate and attract large tournaments from around South Carolina, and even beyond that.”

While many projects are in planning and preparation stages, patrons can see the improvements in several of our facilities even now. At Trenholm Park, the front lobby, restrooms and hallways have been updated to match the aesthetic of some of our newer parks. Similarly, the restrooms at Killian Park are in the process of being redone with new floors and fixtures making the facilities more beautiful and functional.

Here are some of the projects that are prioritized for the health of our patrons: At Meadowlake Park, the main water line, which was made of cast iron and spilling discolored water, has been replaced. Other projects like the Polo Road Sports Complex, aim to upgrade the experience of our patrons. At Polo Road

Soccer Complex, Property Management has laid new sod and fenced the entire field. They also have repaired and upgraded the lighting. At the baseball field, we are installing a new press box and concessions stand.

Starlight Park has undergone a major facelift, including a new picnic shelter and community garden, and plans are underway to install a new playground as well. Similarly, plans are underway for major improvements in accessibility at Friarsgate Park, along with correcting the irrigation and leveling the fields.

It has been a busy year thus far. We are so grateful to our patrons for their patience as improvements across the county are ongoing. It’s an exciting time of growth and change at RCRC, and we look forward to even more involvement and opportunities for our communities moving forward!

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Upcoming Eventsaround Richland County

July 2019National Parks and Recreation MonthJuly 4 Independence Day – Holiday

July 12 • 7:00 pm Movies in the Park Meadowlake Park

July 13 • 10:00 am Family Fun Day Eastover Park

July 20 Free Play Tournament Denny Terrace Gym

July 20 Back to School Bash North Springs Park

July 20-21 10th Annual Todd Williams “Live Life to the Fullest” Basketball Tournament Caughman Road Park & Bluff Road Park

July 24 • 10:00-11:00 am Showtime Carousel

July 24 • 11:00 am-1:00 pm Seniors Pool Party Eastover Pool

July 27 • 11:00 am Back to School Bash with a Splash St. Andrews Park

August 2019August 3 Back to School Bash Caughman Road Park

August 7 • 10:00-11:00 am Showtime Carousel

August 10 Back to School Bash Meadowlake Park

August 16 • 7:00 pm Movies in the Park Gadsden Park Community Center

August 17 Yard Sale Adult Activity Center

August 23 • 7:00 pm Movies in the Park Ballentine Community Center

August 30 Annual All White Affair Garner’s Ferry Adult Activity Center

August 31 • 10:00 am-1:00 pm Cycle for Sickle Cell Eastover Park

September 2019September 2 Labor Day – Holiday

September 7 Wheelchair Basketball Tournament Adaptive Recreation at Bluff Road Park

September 9-13 32nd Annual Midlands Area Senior Games

September 14 • 12:00-5:00 pm 2nd Annual RCRF’s Jazz Fest North Springs Park Community Center

September 20 Friday Follies Adult Activity Center

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SEPTEMBER 14, 2019

12:00-5:00 PM

NORTH SPRINGS PARK COMMUNITY CENTER1320 CLEMSON ROAD • COLUMBIA, SC 29229

FREE ADMISSION

RCRF 2019 jazz fest lineup INCLUDES:

DWAYNE JOHNSON &SOULFOOD JAZZ BAND

GWEN YVETTE &TC SOUL

WILLIE WALKER &CONVERSATION PIECE

REGGIE GRAVES &JAZZ THEORY