South Carolina Recreation & Parks Magazine Winter 2013-14

Hospitality Tax Success Stories

WINTER 2014

SOUTH CAROLINARECREATION & PARKS ASSOCIATION

The New Age of Fitness

2013 SCRPA Award Highlights

Winter 2014 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Association Report ............................................................................ 5

The New Age of Fitness .................................................................... 6

HTAX in Rock Hill ............................................................................... 8

Hospitality Tax Successes ............................................................... 10

South Carolina Senior Sports Classic .............................................14

2013 SCRPA Awards Highlights .......................................................16

City of Charleston Tennis Division Honored ..................................19


CBM Branch: Scott Wilhide (p) 803-767-0393 [email protected]

ELM Branch: Tom O’Rourke (p) 843-762-2172 (f) 762-2683 [email protected]

EMB: Shaniqua Simmons (p) 843-740-8505 (f) 745-1057 [email protected]

PRM Branch: Jon Woodsby (p) 864-595-5356 (f) 593-5363 [email protected]

RAP Branch: Leslie Reeves (p) 803-359-9961 (f) 359-9092 [email protected]

SCAP Branch: Johnny Davis (p) 843-784-5136 (f) 784-5172 [email protected]

Student Branch: Pam Davis(p) 864-467-8008 [email protected]

Wellness Branch: Tripp Clark (p) 803-359-3658 [email protected]

BRANCHES

SCRPA EXECUTIVE STAFF

Executive Director: James E. Headley [email protected]

Membership Services Coordinator: Melissa Williams [email protected]

ADVERTISER INDEX

Churchich Recreation and Design ...................................................13

Cunningham Recreation .................................................................... 4

General Recreation .............................................. Inside Front Cover

Playgrounds of the Carolinas ...........................................................11

Playworld Preferred ..........................................................Back Cover

R.J. Thomas......................................................................................... 7

The Parking Place ............................................................................... 3

Wood + Partners ...............................................................................12

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 [email protected].

2013 Board of Directors

President: Mark Sexton (p) 803-329-8777 (f) 329-8786 [email protected]

President Elect: Don Shuman (p) 864-676-2180 (f) 288-6499 [email protected]

Vice President: Jeff Metz (p) 803-642-7652 (f) 293-2051 [email protected]

Secretary: Jessica Campbell (p) 803-642-7648 [email protected]

Treasurer: Eric Stewart (p) 864-343-6353 [email protected]

Past President: Joe Ross (p) 843-389-2785 (f) 667-0934 [email protected]

Central VP: David Linder (p) 803-329-5672 (f) 329-5677 [email protected]

Eastern VP: Callie Wise (p) 843-280-5605 [email protected]

Southern VP: Jason Woodrum (p) 843-884-0832 (f) 884-0254 [email protected]

Western VP: Chris Barrineau (p) 864-862-4675 [email protected]

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

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P.O. Box 1046 • Lexington, SC 29071-1046 (p) 803-808-7753 (f) 803-808-7754www.scrpa.org, [email protected]

SCRPA MARKETING COMMITTEE

Laurie Helms, City of Rock HillSarah Reynolds, Charleston County PRCChris Pounder, Charleston County PRC

Cover photo of Manchester Meadows in Rock Hill.

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

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

SOUTH CAROLINA MAGAZINE HELPS YOU REACH…• Over 1,000 South Carolina Recreation & Park

Association members: recreation managers, arts coordinators, grounds keepers, senior activity programmers, event planners, facility managers, site planners, parks maintenance, golf course managers, sports organizations.

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

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

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Complete Park and Playground SolutionsMore than ever, children need play. Play promotes an active, healthy lifestyle and helps

develop cognitive skills that last a lifetime. Cunningham Recreation works closely with

communities and organizations to select and install the perfect playground for your needs,

and to ensure the maximum play value for your budget.

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

800.438.2780 cunninghamrec.com


We know many of you have been affected in some way by the nation’s volatile and fragile economy. We wish we had answers or a solution; but there is one thing we do know: Park and recreation professionals are some of the most resilient and creative people around. So, we are dividing our final article into three sections: Giving Thanks, The Good News, and The Opportunities.

Giving Thanks To the many who have contributed this year -- thank you! Many members do not see what others have done and here are just a few examples:

The Executive Level Management Branch and the Past Presidents Committee established the first SCRPA Meeting and Training Calendar. Their work helped the SCRPA board identify major training events and highlight training gaps. A new training opportunity for small towns was held in November and re-established customer service training for front line staff as an annual event.

Branch leaders and past presidents have continued their roles helping with and setting the legislative agenda for our Association. They also conducted the Southern Leisure Management and Trends Institute, helping to provide guidance for the current leaders of our profession.

Recreation Arts and Programming (RAP) “branched” out this year by conducting The Programming Summit (TPS); they promise that next year’s event will be equally as successful. The Senior Citizens Committee (part of the RAP ranch) hosted more than 300 seniors from across the state in Myrtle Beach. All involved had a great time in an educational environment.

The SC Athletic Programs Branch put on athletic tournaments throughout the year that reached thousands of participants. They conducted individual skill competitions in conjunction with the National Football League (Punt, Pass and Kick) and are concluding the year with the Sports Management Institute in December.

SCRPA is truly blessed to work with the staff from Clemson University. They have always been willing to lend a helping hand any time they are called upon. The

professionals and the leadership at Clemson’s Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management department have continued to assist SCRPA and its members with information sharing and promotion of the profession.

The Board of Directors certainly deserves thanks for giving countless hours and travel time to help promote, protect and serve our profession.

And finally, without You the Membership and your Agency’s participation, we would not be successful. We all have a lot to be thankful for, but most importantly each other. SPECIAL THANKS TO EACH OF YOU!

The Good News SCRPA had another great year financially and was able to provide the membership with some of the tools needed to best serve our respective communities. It is our hope that the new web site will serve as a foundation and a resource to assist in continuing to provide quality services.

We continued to publish quarterly magazines and re-established the printing of the membership directory. Please take advantage of this great opportunity to share your successes and challenges through articles in the coming year.

It may have taken a while, but agency members now have the flexibility to provide memberships to all of their employees. This increased flexibility allows us to serve more professionals and get more folks involved, enhancing our reach for all of South Carolina.

The Opportunities Tough times can create new opportunities and open doors that may have been closed before. Our profession should continue to be a leader in forging partnerships. The time is now so let’s take this opportunity and use it to our advantage. Build partnerships however large or small and help each of us CREATE COMMUNITIES THROUGH PEOPLE, PARKS and PROGRAMS.

Have a great holiday season! Jim & Mark

THE ASSOCIATION REPORT by Jim Headley and Mark Sexton

The New Age of

By Dana Rasmussen, CCPRC

When the new year begins people everywhere look

to it as an opportunity to better themselves. This year, Charleston-area recreation agencies are going to help.

The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC), along with several other sponsoring agencies in the area, is launching the Lowcountry Master Games, which is a year-round, ongoing series of events for people over the age of 50 who are interested in competitive sports and recreation opportunities.

The Lowcountry Master Games will feature a different sport or event each month. The games, which include basketball,

Fitness

“It’s really great that all of these departments are coming together with the same goal – to serve the growing 50+ population of the Lowcountry with quality sports programming” Sarah Reynolds, CCPRC Publicity Coordinator



softball, racquetball, golf, bocce, table tennis, track and field, along with several others, will be held at different locations throughout the greater Charleston area.

“Our [50+] population continues to grow and we have to be diligent in keeping them active and providing programs that they embrace,” Senior Citizens Coordinator for the North Charleston Recreation Department Belinda Swindler said. “A major benefit to any department participating in the Lowcountry Masters is the ability to offer their clientele…a greater menu of events and activities to participate in locally.”

The focus of the Lowcountry Master Games is not on age, but instead on healthy living through remaining active.

“As the fastest growing segment of our population, the 50+ market deserves attention,” CCPRC’s Fitness and Wellness Program Manager Allison Foster said. “Powerful, active, and competitive 50-plussers are redefining age as we know it. They personify the adage ‘age is just a number.’ Most are living longer, healthier, more productive lives with little thought of slowing down. Lowcountry Master Games capitalizes on this trend.”

“It’s really great that all of these departments are coming together with the same goal – to serve the growing 50+ population of the Lowcountry with quality sports programming,” CCPRC Publicity Coordinator Sarah Reynolds said. “This sort of partnership shows great cooperation toward a single goal that is important to everyone in the recreation community: keeping people active.”

The program begins January 28 with bowling. The Town of Mount Pleasant Recreation Department is the sponsoring agency hosting the inaugural event. A complete schedule listing the sports and activities along with the time, date, and location and any fees associated is available online at www.lowcountrymasters.com.

The website will provide direct access for those interested in learning more about the programs and how to register for the events. Registration can also be completed in person at any of the following agencies: City of Charleston Department of Recreation, City of North Charleston Recreation Department, Town of Mount Pleasant Recreation Department, Isle of Palms Recreation Department, St. Andrews Parks and Recreation Department, CCPRC, and the Charleston Metro Sports Council.

“Lowcountry Master Games draws on the expertise of all participating agencies,” Foster said. “Each is hosting a sport befitting the talent and venue of the agency. The magnitude and scope of the project provides a solid foundation for service and success on a level not seen before for the 50+ population.”

For more information, contact CCPRC at 843-795-4386 or get in touch with the other sponsoring agencies.


Thanks to funding through the local Hospitality Tax (HTAX), the City of Rock Hill has been able to build high quality recreation facilities that bring tourists to the city for tournaments and special events. At the same time, these facilities provide outstanding venues for local recreation programs and leisure activities. Residents and local businesses also benefit from the positive direct economic impact of tourism events – jobs are created and cash registers ring.

Built with HTAX funds, the 70 acre Manchester Meadows complex opened in 2006. Six regulation and two championship fields, stadium seating for 1,500 and a soccer pavilion with concessions, offices and meeting space provide the perfect location for soccer, lacrosse, and even quidditch games. All of this is surrounded by a 1.1 mile walking trail, a lake pavilion and playgrounds. The direct economic impact from events at Manchester Meadows in 2012 was close to $11.4 million from 25 events, including the week-long US Youth Soccer National Championship.

The Rock Hill Tennis Center and the Giordana Velodrome, opening in 2005 and 2012 respectively, were also built with HTAX funds and contribute to the overall impact of sports tourism in Rock Hill. The Tennis Center features ten lighted regulation courts, one stadium court, a pro shop, concessions and an observation deck. The 250 meter Giordana Velodrome is a cycling track with 42.5 degree banked turns and is the first of several cycling amenities at the Rock Hill Outdoor Center. The track is endorsed by USA Cycling and built to Olympic standards.

In 2012, the Tennis Center and Velodrome together contributed to a direct economic impact of over $970K from a total of 11 events. Significant events during 2012 were the USTA $25K Women’s Pro Circuit and the USA Cycling Elite Omnium National Championships.

(Note: Data was obtained through economic impact studies conducted at various events throughout the year and reflects a “direct” economic impact.)

by Laurie Helms, Marketing Coordinator Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism

HTAX in Rock Hill


Hospitality TAX SUCCESSES


by Jim Headley

WHAT IS IT & HOW MUCH CAN IT BE? The Local Hospitality Tax Act authorizes, by positive majority vote, imposing a cumulative maximum 2 percent hospitality tax (a tax on the sales of prepared meals and beverages sold in establishments, or sales of prepared meals and beverages sold in establishments licensed for on-premises consumption of alcoholic beverages, beer, or wine.) in a municipality and the county. S.C. Code 6-1-700, et seq. If a municipality has not imposed the maximum 2 percent, a county may not impose more than 1 percent within a municipality without consent by resolution of the municipal council.

DEFINITION OF A TOURIST With respect to capital projects and as used in this section, "tourist" means a person who does not reside in but rather enters temporarily, for reasons of recreation or leisure, the jurisdictional boundaries of a municipality for a municipal project or the immediate area of the project for a county project.


WHAT CAN IT BE USED FOR? As per SECTION 6-1-730. of the state code Use of revenue from local hospitality tax . [SC ST SEC 6-1-730]

A. The revenue generated by the hospitality tax must be used exclusively for the following purposes:

(1) tourism-related buildings including, but not limited to, civic centers, coliseums, and aquariums;

(2) tourism-related cultural, recreational, or historic facilities;

(3) beach access and renourishment;

(4) highways, roads, streets, and bridges providing access to tourist destinations;

(5) advertisements and promotions related to tourism development; or

(6) water and sewer infrastructure to serve tourism- related demand.

B. (1) In a county in which at least nine hundred thousand dollars in accommodations taxes is collected annually pursuant to Section 12-36-920, the revenues of the hospitality tax authorized in this article may be used for the operation and maintenance of those items provided in A. (1) – (6) including police, fire protection, emergency medical services, and emergency-preparedness operations directly attendant to those facilities.

(2) In a county in which less than nine hundred thousand dollars in accommodations taxes is collected annually pursuant to Section 12-36-920, an amount not to exceed fifty percent of the revenue in the preceding fiscal year of the local hospitality tax authorized pursuant to this article may be used for the additional purposes provided in item (1) of this subsection.

Municipalities in counties that collect more than $900,000 in statewide accommodations tax may use the revenue for operating and maintaining capital facilities eligible to be built with the local hospitality funds. All other municipalities may use up to 50 percent of the revenue for operating and maintaining facilities that are eligible to be built with local hospitality funds.


GREENVILLE COUNTY PARKS, RECREATION & TOURISM

2012 Sports Tourism Efforts Positively Impact Greenville County:

• In 2012, Greenville Rec sports tourism facilities (funded by TRAC)

• Hosted 78 athletic tournaments (including CESA & Team Greenville events)

• Generated more than $10,000,000 in economic impact across Greenville County

Westside Aquatic Complex Impact: • 10 Major Meets in 2012

• 4,800 athletes competed

• 12,000 people visited for swim meets

• An average of 57% of meet participants came from outside Greenville County

$26,730,378 est. Economic Impact 2007-2012

Sports Tourism facilities newly constructed or renovated with TRAC dollars have had a significant impact on Greenville

County in only six years. With construction complete on the final project (Conestee Park – opened March 2012), the outlook is even more favorable for the future.

Projections: 5 Year View – Estimated Economic Impact 2013-2017 = $37,003,518

• 399,570 out-of-town visitors

• 103,149 room nights

10 Year View – Estimated Economic Impact 2007-2017 = $63,733,896

CITY OF GREENVILLE Fall Parks – A $13 million project ($1.3 million in hospitality taxes) helped anchor the revitalization of downtown Greenville that has made Greenville’s downtown a place to work live and play! Without this anchor, many believe downtown Greenville’s business would not have taken off the way that it did.

Hospitality PROJECTS

photo by Rosales + Partners


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SPARTANBURG COUNTY Funding for construction of Tyger River Park and renovation of North Spartanburg Park

• Financed through Certificates of Participation

• Debt service paid by Hospitality Tax ($1,388,488 x 20 years)

• First year economic impact (calendar year 2012) documented in study by Clemson University: $17.6 million to Spartanburg County; $5.8 million to Greenville County.

Plans: FY13, forward (based on County Council adoption of Parks Enhancement Plan, in October 2012)

• Renovations to 295 Sports Complex. Intent is to bring the old complex to current codes and use as a third facility for baseball and softball tournaments, as well as for local league play. Estimated expense: $1.2 million. Design almost complete.

• Expansion of Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park. Intent is to expand existing park to accommodate youth soccer, football and lacrosse tournaments, as well as supporting local league play. Estimated expense: $1.85 million.

• Funding of Trails and Greenway Master Plan, followed by development of bike/pedestrian trail system, in cooperation with City of Spartanburg and Partners for Active Living. Outsourcing trail development to Partners for Active living ($22,000 per year) and banking $200,000 per year for trail construction. Also includes $75,000 per year, over four years, for in-house construction of exercise trails within Hospitality Tax funded parks. Partners for Active Living is working on a trail that will be associated with an economic development project.

CITY OF DILLON• Host annual Holiday Goodness

Festival with 75 vendors and 1200 shoppers at Wellness Center Facility.

• Host Opening Ceremony for State Dixie Youth and Dixie Softball State Tournaments with an average of 500 in attendance players and families.

• Regional Karate Tournaments with 500 attending.

• Celebrate Main Street Festival Concert that attracts over 300 annually.

• Taste of Dillon County with 250 attending in county and out of county.

• Regional SCRPA Basketball Tournaments 500 attending.

• Regional AAU Basketball Tournaments 300 attending.

• All of these events held at facility that uses hospitality fees for debt payment.

• Quotes from out of area visitors to festivals and special events always state that they wished their community had a facility like this. Another quote is ”I cannot believe this facility is in Dillon.”

• Retail businesses and restaurants always look forward to events being held in Dillon because of the economic impact they have. Community supports all these events.

EACH SPRING A YOUNG MAN’S FANCY TURNS TO–GOLD? FOR THREE DECADES, THE

SOUTH CAROLINA SENIOR SPORTS CLASSIC (SCSSC) HAS GATHERED SENIOR ATHLETES

FROM ALL OVER THE STATE TO THE BEAUTIFUL CAMPUS OF FRANCIS MARION UNIVERSITY

IN FLORENCE TO RUN, JUMP, THROW, STROKE, HIT AND ROLL THEIR WAY TO VICTORY IN

THE SC STATE GAMES COMPETITION. ADULTS FROM 50-100 YEARS OLD JOIN IN THE FUN,

FELLOWSHIP AND FITNESS OF ELITE AND RECREATIONAL SPORTING EVENTS DESIGNED TO

CHALLENGE AND INSPIRE HEALTH AND WELLNESS FOR SOUTH CAROLINIANS. YOU HAVE TO

AGE, BUT YOU DON’T HAVE TO GET OLD.

By Joni Dilworth, Greenville County

SENIOR SPORTS

CLASSICa golden opportunity

South Carolina



P.O. Box 3401, Florence, SC 29502 - 843.992.4504

ArcheryBadmintonBasketballBocceBowlingCycling

Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Through SportOpen To Everyone 50 And Over

Wed-Sat May 14-17, 2014

Disc GolfFree ThrowGolfHorseshoesPickleballPocket Billiards

RacquetballShuffleboardSoftballSoftball ThrowSpin CastingSpot Shooting

SwimmingTable TennisTennisTrack EventsTriathalonVolleyball

www.scseniorgames.com

Senior Sports Classic

If your agency hasn’t tapped into this baby boomer phenomenon, you’re missing the boat! Over 41% of the state’s population is 45 and over and that figure is growing every day as someone turns 50 every 7 seconds in the United States. SC is a leading mecca for this population of affluent, upscale Americans who control 77% of the nation’s assets; spend over $300 billion per year in discretionary income and 1 trillion dollars a year on products and services; and account for over 50% of all vacation travel. So if you are not using this group of constituents that vote, serve on your boards, volunteer in your leagues and affect public policy as your cheerleaders and supporters, you need to read on.

The SCSSC is a health initiative redefining middle age. Through a network of Local Games, Invitationals, and the State competition, medalists qualify every other year for the biennial National Senior Games, the single fastest growing athletic event in the United States, attracting 12-15,000 athletes from all over the world.

A SCSSC Local Game will provide the program you need to reach that growing segment of your

service area. The SCSSC conducts a Local Games Training Workshop each January in Columbia to help make your event successful.

Sports Tourism opportunities to host a sanctioned senior athletic event can maximize facility use and boost economic impact for your communities. League, local and Invitational play can lead to an unforgettable experience for male and female athletes choosing to join in at the 4 day, 25 sport, 80 event State Games May 14-18, 2014. This year’s event is a qualifier for the 2015 Nationals in Minneapolis, MN. There is something for everyone from swimming, tennis, triathlon, cycling, and track & field to horseshoes, shuffleboard, table tennis, bowling and golf. There are also team sports in softball, volleyball and 3 on 3 basketball and educational and social events such as a health fair, zumba, bingo, dinner dance and parade of athletes.

Celebrate the efforts of these inspiring athletes with a local Senior Games. It will capture your attention, touch your heart, and bring you to your feet. Endorsed by PRT and SCRPA, the SCSSC is sponsored by Humana,

BlueCross BlueShield, AARP, and Florence City and County. It is the sanctioned program for the National Senior Games Association which is a member of the US Olympic Committee. For more information, please visit the SCSSCwebsite at www.scseniorgames.com.

HIGHLIGHTSBY LAURIE HELMS

2013

SCRPA

INDIVIDUAL SCRPA MEMBER AWARDSThe SCRPA Professional of the Year nominee must be in the parks and recreation profession 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, and character.

Professional of the YearPHIL MACCHIADirector of Parks, Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission

Phil Macchia is climbing the ranks of his agency as well as the leadership of SCRPA. Words that have been utilized to describe him are enthusiastic, caring, dedicated, lead-er, friend, thoughtful husband and father.

Phil has been a certified Park and Recreation Professional for over twenty years, and his involvement with SCRPA has been extensive – Wellness Committee member for 4 years; Conference Program Committee member 2 years; Aquatics Committee member 3 years and Committee Chair; Conference Planning Committee member several years and Com-mittee Chair; and District Representative for Personnel Standards Committee member 5 years. He served the Association as Secretary in 1998, Treasurer from 1999 to 2001 and President in 2010; he was the winner of SCRPA’s Young Professional of the Year Award in 2001.

Presently, Phil is the Director of Parks at Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission and leads a diverse team in the daily operations and maintenance of the

entire park system. In his “free” time, he is involved with community endeavors, serv-ing on many committees and working with various organizations. He has served on the board of the local Big Brothers/ Big Sisters, participated in a Foreign Exchange Student Program, and served in several offices of the Parent Teacher Association, including two years as President.

Even with all of his professional commitments and accomplishments, Phil and his wife, Kris-tie, make sure family comes first. They have two sons, Andrew and Alex, who are also involved with many activities. Dad coaches their sports teams and drives them to various school and club events.

Even with all these accolades, the best one is that Phil is still a “regular guy.” He treats people with respect, works hard, and is not afraid to have a little fun. As a supervisor, he wants the best for his staff, making sure

After another successful SCRPA Annual Conference, we’d like to share the stories of the individuals and organizations who received recognition through the Association’s 2013 Awards Program.

One good reason for an awards program is to share and inspire others – whether individuals who are growing in their career with parks and recreation or those who have been doing this a while and maybe need a little spark to continue to forge ahead. After reading about this year’s award recipients, if you pick up one new idea or gain a different perspective on something, and you implement it with the support of your team, then you are a winner, too.

The SCRPA Board of Directors and the Awards and Citations Committee urge members to plan now for next year’s Awards Program. Be thinking of volunteers, organizations, government officials, staff members, programs and parks that have made significant contributions to your community and/or the parks and recreation profession. Then stay alert to deadlines when they are announced for the 2014 Awards Program. SCRPA would love to recognize and share even more achievements next year!

Thanks to those who submitted applications and to the members of the Awards and Citations Committee for their work this year. And a big congratulations to all award recipients. You have been recognized because of all you do to create community thorough people, parks and programs!

Members of the 2013 Awards and Citations Committee:Laurie Helms (Chair), Lawanda Curry (Vice Chair), Brad Cuttino, Seth Holley and Sarah Ward.


they have the right tools to succeed, and he gives credit to those who deserve it. No matter what activity or situation he encounters, Phil is totally committed, and will carry it through with integrity.

According to his Director Tom O’Rourke, “The work that Phil Macchia does is vital to the success of our Agency. Phil is one of the best that I have seen in understanding the three most essential ingredients to working in this profession: We all exist for the Customers – Who we are speaks louder than what we do- and Culture trumps Strategy. Phil makes us all better.”

The Robert L. Reid Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame 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 AwardGARY MCJUNKINRetired Director, Cooper River Parks and Playgrounds Commission

Gary McJunkin is a native South Carolinian and long time resident of the City of North Charleston. He served in the United States Army and is a veteran of the Korean War.

As a young man, Gary cul-tivated a love for sports and recreation by volunteering at

Chicora High School, which served the community where he lived. He became a faithful figure at Chicora through his volunteer commitment to the coaches and athletic department.

Gary led the Cooper River Park and Playground Commission as Director of the Commission 1963-1994. During that time, he was instrumental in growing recreational services offered to the residents. A proponent of community recreation, Gary found means to place houses in neighborhoods that served as community-based recreation facilities. This paved the way to organized athletic teams representing local communities.

During his tenure as Director, Gary oversaw the construction of numerous parks and athletic fields. As an active member of the South Carolina Recreation and Park Society, he served as President as well as other offices and numerous committees. In 1974, SCRPA recog-nized Gary as Professional of the Year for South Carolina. He has long been an avid supporter of Dixie Youth Baseball and has served in the Dixie Youth Organization for sixty plus years.

Gary McJunkin will forever be recognized as a pioneer, visionary, and leader with a passion for creating athletic and recreation programs and facilities in North Charleston for the enjoyment of its citizens as well as for the state. Because of his efforts, many children and young persons have experienced moments that created lifelong memories.

PARKS AND PROGRAMS EXCELLENCEFour new agency awards were added to the awards program last year replac-ing the Agency of the Year Award. Awards can be given for Parks Excellence and Programming Excellence in two different population categories: 30,000 and under and over 30,000. 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.

Programming Excellence Award (Population over 30,000)CREATIVE JOURNEYCity of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department

It all began with Gold Star Mother Suzie Shealy, who lost her son in Bagdad in 2005, and City of Columbia cultural arts coordinator Brenda Oliver, who was moved by a touching experience with the Wounded Warrior

Transition Unit at Ft. Jackson. These individuals shared their life-changing experiences which became the heart and soul of Creative Journey.

Creative Journey is an art resource program that provides a monthly art session for the Wounded Warrior Transition Unit at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C., the Army’s largest training installation in the U.S. The program began this year in January and is designed to use art as a form of healing for the soldiers, the majority of whom suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury. This is the only arts healing program in the country for active members of the military that exists as a result of a partnership between city government and the military.

The program is supported by monetary donations and in-kind contri-butions from local businesses and a host of loyal and loving volun-teers whose efforts are part of wonderful recovery process for the soldiers. A tremendous amount of hard work, planning, and sacrifice goes into each session, but the knowledge that lives are being trans-formed, souls are being healed and minds are slowly finding a place of ease, makes it all worthwhile.

Award Highlights Continued on page 18



Parks Excellence Award (Population under 30,000)THE CANNON CENTREThe City of Greer Parks and Recreation Department

The City of Greer Parks and Recre-ation Department has repurposed a 77-year-old building and turned it into a revenue producing facility, resulting in The Cannon Centre. The building was originally constructed as a South Carolina National Guard Armory in

1936-1937. After a new armory was built, the City of Greer Parks and Recreation Department used it for youth and adult activities and as a meeting and training site for program volunteers and officials.

The building was closed in 2006 due to disrepair. In 2009, the build-ing’s renovation was identified in the City of Greer Parks and Recre-ation Department’s Strategic/Master Plan, and in 2011, the City of Greer began extensive renovations. The project totaled $1.276 million.

The building was named the Cannon Centre in recognition of the Can-non family’s contributions to the City of Greer’s early government and the provision of property that today is public space integral to quality of life in the city. It was dedicated on July 22, 2012.

The Cannon Centre is unique. It houses the Greer Cultural Arts office and theatrical productions. It is available to the public for rent for wed-dings, parties, meetings, banquets, etc. In its first year of operation, the building was reserved 164 times and generated $68,000 in revenue. Rental income goes into an enterprise account used to support facility repairs, equipment, cleaning, and part-time staffing, offsetting much of the cost from the general fund budget.

The first event held in the facility was an anniversary party for a couple that met at a community dance at the old National Guard Armory. Retaining the charm of a building that holds so many memories and repurposing it with amenities for generations to come is an indication that the City of Greer Parks and Recreation Department is indeed fulfilling their mission statement.

Parks Excellence Award (Population over 30,000)TYGER RIVER PARKSpartanburg County Parks Department

What began as 137 acres in the middle of an apple and peach orchard has since become a state of the art $17.6 million baseball/softball facility known as Tyger River Park. The park features 12 youth baseball/softball fields and an additional championship stadium field

accommodating baseball for ages 4-15 and softball at all age levels.

But there is more to Tyger River Park than just ball fields. The park provides a safe, lighted place to exercise, walk your dog, picnic with family, or read and relax in the pavilion bench swings.

Visitors from all over the United States, upon playing at the park, confirm that Tyger River Park is truly a “Park of Excellence!” With an economic impact in excess of $17.6 millon in its first year of operation, Tyger River Park exceeded everyone’s expectations. Chris Jennings, Spartanburg Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Executive Director, stated that “Spartanburg has gained national publicity for hosting

youth sports events — specifically softball and baseball tournaments at the new Tyger River Park.”

With the NSA World Series Event slated to return in the summer of 2014 and a solid book of tournament requests, Tyger River Park is hoping to maintain their “primo” status and enjoy the fruits of their labor by facilitating quality sporting events to be enjoyed by all!

CHAMPIONS FOR OUR COMMUNITYA 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: Central District, OrganizationHARBISON THEATRE AT MIDLANDS TECHNICAL COLLEGE

“The mission of Harbison Theatre is to offer a high caliber of cultural enrich-ment and entertainment to the public, while serving as a valuable resource for the Midlands Technical College community,” notes Katie Fox, Direc-tor of Theatre Operations. “By hosting

acclaimed acts from major cities as well as our region’s brightest performing arts groups, we hope to contribute to the rich cultural landscape which is already thriving here in the Midlands.”

Champion for our Community: Central District, IndividualDOUG ECHOLSMayor, City of Rock Hill

Mayor Echols values the work of the boards, commis-sions, and advisory committees who, as volunteers, study and provide input on matters that come before City Council. He is supportive of new initiatives and grant funding sources that create programs and proj-ects to foster a positive quality of life for citizens. His view of public recreation facilities is that they should

provide for local residents first, and where it makes sense, to also offer those facilities to tourism purposes, providing a positive economic impact benefitting residents through a strengthened economy and more jobs.

Champion for our Community: Southern District, IndividualGREGORY G. MULLENPolice Chief, City of Charleston

Chief Mullen is passionate about Charleston and making it the best city in America. His hard work and dedication extends far beyond his squad car and badge. He is a wonderful presence in the parks and recreation facilities. Always quick to help and offer his assistance, Chief Gregory Mullen is a shining ex-ample of a true Champion for the City of Charleston and the recreation efforts there.


2013 has been an outstanding year for the City of Charleston Tennis Division. In April of 2013, Peggy Bohne, the City of Charleston Tennis Manager, was awarded the Nancy J. McGinley Tennis Advocate Award by The Charleston Tennis Initiative. The award, named after the Charleston Superintendent of Schools, is given to a member of the community that helps to promote tennis in the area. Peggy has organized and run the Tri-county Elementary and Middle School Tennis League for the last 30 years promoting tennis in the public, private and parochial schools in Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester counties. The league had 118 teams in 2013.

The following August, the Tennis Division was notified that Jacoby Johnson, a long time participant of the City of Charleston Courting Kids Program, had won the Southern Arthur Ashe Essay Contest. The contest is sponsored each year by the United States Tennis Association/ National Junior Tennis League. Jacoby received a free trip for himself and a family member to the US Open Tennis Tournament Series in Winston-Salem, NC. While there he not only was able

to watch nationally ranked pros play, but also was treated to a number of educational and social functions.

The Courting Kids Program, that Jacoby participates in, was started by Delores Jackson after receiving a $12,000 grant from the Paul Newman Foundation. Delores has been the coordinator for this program for 22 years, during which she has won numerous awards and accolades. In October of this year, Delores was presented the award for Civic and Community Service by the MOJA Arts Festival at the MOJA Awards Luncheon that was held at Magnolia Gardens.

The Tennis Division was again honored when Tennis Pro Toni Young was notified that she will receive the USTA/South Carolina Tennis Association Pro of the Year at the annual meeting held in December at Wild Dunes. Toni started teaching with the City’s Tiny Tennis Program for 3 to 6 year olds. Her teaching style became so popular that soon adults and parents of older children were asking her for lessons. She became the Pro at the Maybank Tennis Center where she

now teaches hundreds of adults and children. She is particularly gifted with teaching beginners and returning players by giving them a relaxed and unintimidating atmosphere. She was instrumental in guiding her son Ryan through a successful junior, college (Clemson) and pro career. He is now the Assistant Tennis Coach at the University of South Carolina. Toni has played on numerous winning adult teams and coached many winning USTA teams.

The City of Charleston Tennis Division is humbled by all of the recognition and awards that have been bestowed upon them this year and will continue to strive to be the best possible tennis division for residents and non-residents of Charleston in the years to come.

Tennis Division is Honored with Multiple AwardsBy Frances Deschenes, City of Charleston

City of Charleston

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


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Documents

South Carolina Recreation & Parks Magazine Winter 2013-14