SCRPA Winter 2015-16

WINTER 2015

SOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINASOUTH CAROLINA

RECREATION & PARKS ASSOCIATIONRECREATION & PARKS ASSOCIATIONRECREATION & PARKS ASSOCIATIONRECREATION & PARKS ASSOCIATION

2015 SCRPA Award Highlights2015 SCRPA Award Highlights2015 SCRPA Award Highlights

Anyone Can Make A Difference –

Volunteers


Volunteers


Volunteers

A Matter of Life or Death



Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission brings awareness to the

difficulty of spotting a drowning victim





2015

SCRPA

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Winter 2015 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 3

SOUTH CAROLINARECREATION & PARKS ASSOCIATION

CBM Branch Scott Wilhide

ELM Branch Mark Sexton

PRM Branch Josh Sullivan

RAP Branch David Caldwell

SCAP Branch Shannon Loper

Student Branch Leslie Ballard

SC PRT Representative Matt Elswick

BRANCHES

SCRPA EXECUTIVE STAFF

Executive Director: James E. Headley [email protected]

Membership Services Coordinator: Melissa Williams [email protected]

2016 Board of Directors

President Eric Stewart

President Elect Lawanda Curry

Vice President T. J. Rostin

Secretary Amy Evans

Treasurer Randy Gibson

Past President Don Shuman (2015)Jeff Metz

Central VP John Alexander

Eastern VP David Williams

Southern VP Doyle Best

Western VP Ray Dunham

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

P.O. Box 1046 • Lexington, SC 29071-1046 (p) 803-808-7753 (f) 803-808-7754

www.scrpa.org, [email protected]

SCRPA MAGAZINE/MARKETING COMMITTEE

Laurie Helms City of Rock Hill

Chris Pounder Charleston County PRC

Dena Long Irmo Chapin

Sarah Reynolds Charleston County PRC

TABLE OF CONTENTS Association Report ............................................................................ 5

2015 SCRPA Award Highlights .......................................................... 6

A Matter of Life or Death: Signs of Drowning............................... 10

Celebrating 40 years at Greenville County ...................................12

After the Flood ..................................................................................13

Dedicated to Making Seasons Bright .............................................16

Colonel Wingard Make a Difference ..............................................14

Anyone Can Make A Difference ..................................................... 18

ADVERTISER INDEX Barrs Recreation ................................................................Back Cover

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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 952-841-1111 or [email protected].

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On behalf of the Association, I would like to thank each of you for your participation during the joint annual conference in Myrtle Beach. We were faced with a unique task this year as we had a large number of students among us. Many of you took the time to mentor, interview, and just hang out with these future professionals and I want you to know I really appreciate those that gave back during the conference. This is just one of the many successful endeavors that the board of directors and the association took on in 2015. Every branch, committee, and district worked diligently throughout the year to provide quality educational and networking opportunities. I think you all did an awesome job!

As we look forward to 2016, the association still has some things to work towards. Legislatively, we need to continue to strengthen our voice and develop the contacts within each community. Jim does a great job and is well known within our state, but we must continue work with our home town representatives.

I had the opportunity at NRPA to meet with other state associations’ leadership and they all were focusing their efforts to hosting local legislative

days within their counties and regions. Anyone can make a difference! There was also broad support for leading educational classes during municipal and county government conferences.

As 2015 comes to a close, I am encouraged in regards to the leadership within our association. I know Eric Stewart will do a great job as president in 2016, and Lawanda and T.J. will follow suit. I ask each of you to consider working within the association or allowing those that are passionate about a certain area the opportunity to lead. We need everyone’s talents to remain strong. I wish you all the best and thank you for all you do!

Jeff

THE ASSOCIATION REPORT by Jeff Metz

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Every branch, committee, and district worked

diligently throughout the year to provide quality

educational and networking opportunities.

INDIVIDUAL SCRPA MEMBER AWARDS

Programming Excellence Award (Population over 30,000)as The

State Merit recipient is chosen from among the recipients of the RAP, EMB and SCAP Professionals of the Year and the District Merit award winners.

STATE MERIT AWARDTJ ROSTINDeputy Director, North Charleston Recreation Department

TJ Rostin’s role as the Deputy Director at North Charleston Recreation Department keeps him busy with a variety of projects. For example, within months of opening the department’s new sports complex, TJ was instrumental in hosting the 2013 State Dixie Softball Tournament and, later that same week, the State Dixie Youth Baseball Tournament.

TJ values his involvement with SCRPA. He graduated from the SC LEAD program in 2004, chaired the 2014 Annual Conference Committee and just completed serving as Association Secretary. This year, TJ hosted the Southern District Meeting at Wescott Park, helping organize the Parks and Resource Management Branch workshop at no cost to the Association. TJ is a big asset to both his Department and to SCRPA.

The SCRPA Young Professional of the Year nominee must be in the parks and recreation profession for at least three years and no more than 15 years and a member in good standing of SCRPA and professionally certified through the NRPA. This award considers service, leadership, and character.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEARASHLEY SMITHMarket Development Director, Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission

Ashley Smith fell in love with the parks and recreation profession at age 14 while working at a small agency keeping the books for the Dixie Youth Baseball league. He’s spent the past 13 years at Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission, sharing his passion for youth athletics. In his current position of Market Development Director, he has worked to establish partnerships to recruit large scale

athletic tournaments and events to the Midlands and to secure facility and field sponsorship commitments of $500,000+.

Ashley graduated from the 2012 SC LEAD class and currently serves SCRPA as the Central District Vice President. He also spends many hours on the baseball fields of the Midlands where he umpires for the South Carolina High School League. High energy does not even begin to describe Ashley Smith! He exemplifies the qualities to which every parks and recreation professional should aspire to: a positive attitude, sensitivity and a sense of public service. Ashley has been married to Amanda Milam from Pendleton, SC for nine years, and they have a three year old daughter, Norah Kate.

2015


SCRPA

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 2015 Awards Program.

By Laurie Helms, Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism

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. 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 through people, parks and programs!

Members of the 2015 Awards and Citations Committee: Dustin Jordan (Chair), Shane Duncan (Vice Chair), Michelle Drawdy, Seth Holley, Jennifer Majors, Antiwan Tate

The SCRPA Professional of the Year nominee must be in the parks and recreation profession at least 15 year, a member of SCRPA for at least five years and hold a professional certification through NRPA. This award considers service, leadership, and character.

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEARMARK SEXTONOperations Supervisor, Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department

Mark Sexton graduated from Winthrop University in 1994 with a degree in Physical Education with an emphasis in Leisure Services. He has spent the majority of his 20+ year career in Rock Hill with a brief detour to Florence County. Mark started with titles like Youth Baseball and Football Coordinator and progressed to Cherry Park Supervisor, Administrative and Tourism

Supervisor and now Operations Supervisor.

Mark has been instrumental in establishing and supporting the Rock Hill Parks Foundation and recruiting events to fill sports venues. He has supported many new facilities including, most recently, the Giordana Velodrome and the Novant Health BMX Supercross Track. His work in chairing the Local Organizing Committee for the 2012 US Youth National Soccer Championships earned the President’s Service Award from the South Carolina Youth Soccer Association.

Mark has served his community for many years with the Come-See-Me Festival and as a board member of the Rock Hill/ York County Convention and Visitors Bureau. He has served SCRPA on committees, as a graduate of the SC LEAD program, and as President and Past President. He was recognized with the SCRPA Young Professional of the Year award in 2002. Mark is a member of NRPA and holds the Certified Park and Recreation Professional certification.

Mark places a high value on teamwork and genuinely cares for the staff and volunteers that make everything come together. He is supported by his loving family – wife Trish and girls Emma, Sarah and Elizabeth. With Mark’s vision, leadership, and direction, Rock Hill PRT is poised to step into a bright future.

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 AWARDJEFF CATON

Jeff Caton graduated from Clemson University in 1984, majoring in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management. Upon graduating, he became an administrative officer and then Deputy Director at the Naval Weapons Station MWR (Morale Welfare and Recreation) in Charleston. Under Jeff’s leadership, the agency was named Agency of the Year four times by SCRPA.

In 1996, Jeff accepted a position with Spartanburg County Parks and Recreation (later Spartanburg Parks Commission) where he served as Executive Director for 15 years. Through Jeff’s leadership, the agency became the only parks special purpose district in South Carolina under post “home rule” legislation. He successfully oversaw the redevelopment of Cleveland Park and the design and development of Tyger River Park. Jeff garnered unanimous support by County Council for a 2% Hospitality Tax intended exclusively for future park development. The Agency was named Agency of the Year three times by SCRPA, and it has also received the National Dorothy Mullens Arts and Humanities Award.

Jeff became the Director for the City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department in 2012, developing policies and establishing a consistency vital to the success of an inter-City agency nestled between three special purpose districts. Jeff’s leadership is quite evident; in fact, no other professional in our state has successfully managed agencies with the federal government, a county, a special purpose district, and a municipal agency.

Jeff has served on and chaired numerous SCRPA branches and committees. He served as President in 2003 and was recognized that same year as Professional of the Year. Most recently, Jeff has been leading SCRPA’s effort to challenge legislation that would have eliminated many after-school and summer day camp programs across our state. Jeff’s coalition building skills have proven beneficial in this effort. Jeff is described as a professional, a visionary and an innovator and is committed to friends, family, his community and his profession.

PARKS AND PROGRAMS EXCELLENCEFour agency awards are given for Parks Excellence and Programming Excellence in two different population categories: 30,000 and under and over 30,000. The Programming Excellence award recognizes any recreation program or special event an agency offers. The Parks Excellence award recognizes a new, renovated or revitalized park.

PROGRAMMING EXCELLENCE AWARD (POPULATION UNDER 30,000)No award in this category for 2015

PROGRAMMING EXCELLENCE AWARD (POPULATION OVER 30,000)SENIOR WELLNESS INITIATIVESpartanburg County Parks Department

Spartanburg County has cultivated an environment of intergovernmental and public/private cooperation aimed at improving the quality of life for the county’s growing 50+ population. With their


Senior Wellness Initiative program, the Spartanburg County Parks Department has played a leading role in positioning the County to become what the American Association of Retired People describes as an “Age Friendly Community”. With the Parks Department at the helm, a diverse and evolving palate of wellness opportunities has been created for the 50+ population, addressing wellness issues in a multi-pronged approach.

The Parks Department now plays a key role in the Upstate Senior Network, Adult Interagency Council, Elder Abuse Committee/DSS Advisory Team and monthly senior service provider networking meetings. They have developed a comprehensive website with a list of links to agencies and organizations that provide wellness and other services to the 50+ population.

Once they assumed ownership and management of the Chesnee and Timken Community Centers, the kitchen and exercise facility were upgraded. Also, a new community center in the Town of Pacolet is slated to open in 2016. As a result of this increased programming, participant hours are up by 27%, monthly mailer requests are up by 165%, and the Daytrippers travel program participation is up by 100%!

Overall the Senior Wellness Initiative is a model for the development, construction and operation of new and renovated community centers serving the needs of the 50+ population. The key to the success of this initiative was the development and promotion of partnerships.

PARKS EXCELLENCE AWARD (POPULATION UNDER 30,000) RIVERVIEW PARK AND ACTIVITIES CENTERCity of North Augusta Parks and Recreation Department

Over the past three years, the City of North Augusta has completed renovations to the Riverview Park and Activities Center, hub of activity for community participants and Parks and Recreation Department staff. The

renovations provide better security, traffic flow, additional parking, and modern upgrades to facilities that make the park all-inclusive. Aesthetic improvements also make the park a sanctuary for the eyes. The renovations to Riverview Park include a new traffic circle, softball field, an adaptive playground, security cameras, LED lights in the Activities Center gyms and scoring towers with restrooms and state of the art concession stands.

Each July, the world of basketball shines its light on North Augusta. Two basketball tournaments bring more than 14,000 people and

$7+ million to the local area economy. The new LED lights which meet ESPN standards will help keep these tournaments at the Activities Center for years to come.

Reconstruction to the Greenway trail that runs throughout the entire city was also an improvement in the past year. The trail reconstruction, located directly north of the Activities Center, provides more direct access to the Activities Center. All of these improvements have helped the community by making the Activities Center and Riverview Park more accessible and inviting.

PARKS EXCELLENCE AWARD (POPULATION OVER 30,000) SEVEN OAKS PARKIrmo Chapin Recreation Commission

The Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) created a 2010-2020 Strategic Plan based on collaboration and input from the public, community stakeholders, focus groups and staff. The resulting Plan

identified Seven Oaks Park as one of three ICRC parks to begin construction. Seven Oaks Park was slated to receive extensive updates in a variety of areas.

The Live Oak Senior Center, a hub for meal site and senior activities, added an additional 5,000 square feet of space for senior programs at the Park. Seven Oaks also added a new entrance, expanded parking and doubled the size of the existing weight room. The 40-year old concession and restroom building was rebuilt to include larger, more modern bathrooms and concessions, a tower overlooking the baseball fields and concrete stadium seating built into the foundation with a custom shade structure. All ball fields were upgraded with new fencing, state of the art lighting, wider alleyways, and planters that double as additional seating.

Accessibility to the complex was improved through the addition of a wheelchair ramp leading directly to the fields and walking trails. The final phase of construction included the addition of 18,000 square feet for a new gym, indoor walking track, stunning new entrance, reception area and office space as well as the renovation of the existing gym for health and wellness activities.

These improved facilities and the resulting increase in participation has helped Seven Oaks Park make a positive impact on more people and to continue to build and foster the wonderful sense of community in Irmo/Chapin.

2015


SCRPA

CHAMPIONS FOR OUR COMMUNITYThis award celebrates individual citizens and community organizations across South Carolina. 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: INDIVIDUAL FRED BENTFELDGreenville County

Greenville County Parks, Recreation & Tourism (GCPRT) has benefitted greatly from the efforts of Fred Bentfeld and his desire to give back to a program that has given so much to his family. Fred’s daughter, Katie, has Down syndrome. When Katie turned 8 years old she was introduced to GCPRT’s Camp Spearhead – a special needs camp that serves children and adults. The unconditional acceptance Katie has experienced through the services of Camp

Spearhead has impacted Fred and his family deeply. In 2008, Fred’s desire to give back led him to develop an annual golf tournament, the Spearhead Open, that has since raised more than a quarter of a million dollars!

Fred continues to give tirelessly of his time, his influential leadership, and his creativity to establish, nurture, and grow the Spearhead Open by providing significant financial support to Camp Spearhead. Fred is a true champion to his community for the over 700 families served annually by Camp Spearhead.

CHAMPION FOR OUR COMMUNITY: ORGANIZATION LITTLE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Little River Chamber of Commerce in Horry County is a small organization that has greatly impacted parks and recreation in the community and the state. In addition to being a key sponsor of SCRPA’s Programming Summit for the past three years, the Chamber coordinates two major events in the Little River area: the Blue Crab Festival and the Shrimp/Jazz Festival.

Both festivals provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors with live music, community performances, activities for kids, and arts and crafts vendors. The shrimp festival continues to grow with attendance over 22,000 in 2014, while the two-day Blue Crab Festival, in its 33rd year, brings an economic impact of $2.2 million. The Chamber creates community with these events and then uses

some of the profits to sponsor events with Horry County Parks and Recreation at Vereen Memorial Gardens. They also fund events like Movie in the Parks, and they donate an outdoor pre-lit Christmas tree each year for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Thanks to the Little River Chamber of Commerce in Horry County – a great partner of parks and recreation!

LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR JACKIE “COACH” HAYESHouse District 55

Jackie Hayes has been in the South Carolina House of Representatives since 1999 serving District 55 and is known in the General Assembly as “Coach Hayes”. He is also known as someone who works hard and always stays true to his word. In his full time job, Coach Hayes has been the Athletic Director and Head Football Coach for Dillon High School since 1992.

After Governor Haley vetoed the dedicated monies to the Parks and Recreation Development Fund and the new Sports Marketing Program in the 2015 state budget, Rep. Hayes made sure all House members understood the importance of both these programs, especially those in the rural areas of the state. His passion and dedication to these programs led to an override of the Governor’s veto for both programs!

Rep. Hayes currently serves on the House Ways and Means sub-committee where the Department of Social Services (DSS) expansion bill resides. This bill would place park and recreation programs under the auspice of the DSS. As an avid supporter of public park and recreation programs, Rep. Hayes does not see the need of DSS regulating programs that already have standards established by our communities.

Coach Hayes served as President of the SC Athletic Administrative Association in 1998. He was recognized as the Athletic Director of the Year in 2000, Region Coach of the Year in 2002, South Carolina Coach of the Year in 2008, and he was inducted into the SC Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2012. His teams have won four state championships, and he’s the youngest coach in state history to reach the plateau of 200 wins.

Coach Hayes has an unusual coaching strategy -- Never cut a player who follows these simple guidelines, known as “the program”: 1) work hard, 2) be respectful and responsible and 3) follow the rules. Coach takes these same principals to the statehouse everyday and is prepared every day, just as he requires of his kids in Dillon.

Representative Hayes received his degree in 1984 from Catawba College with a BA Degree in Public Parks and Recreation. He’s married to Vera McLellan and has three children: Zach, Shuler and Ellie. He was fortunate to have coached Zach and Shuler when Dillion High School won the state championship in 2008. SCRPA is privileged to have the support of Coach Hayes in the State House of Representatives -- someone who understands the struggles that members of our Association face on a daily basis.



What is supposed to be a fun day at a waterpark can end in tragedy if lifeguards are not prepared to recognize the sometimes acute signs of drowning.

Kevin Rowland, manager of Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark in North Charleston, strives to provide innovative training for his staff of 200. His training highlights victim recognition, which helps lifeguards to better visualize what distress and drowning really look like.

In an effort to get accurate and attention-grabbing training footage, Rowland began filming real-life rescues via a stationary camera at the park’s wave pool. In addition to using the footage for training his staff, he began posting them online to share with his peers for the same purpose.

That is why when a small child was in distress this summer at the waterpark’s crowded wave pool, one of Rowland’s lifeguards was quick to recognize the signs and to react to save him. The rescue was caught on camera and posted on Rowland’s Youtube channel.

A Matter ofLife or DeathCharleston County Park and Recreation Commission’s Kevin Rowland brings awareness to the difficulty of spotting a drowning victimBy Dana Rasmussen, Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission


As an example of the difficulties of spotting a drowning child, this video garnered millions of views and helped train lifeguards throughout the country. It received significant media attention in June 2015, including ABC’s “Good Morning America” and The New York Times, during nationwide stories about victim recognition. Rowland soon received comments from parents saying that his videos inspired them to enroll their child in swimming lessons or to keep a closer eye on their children.

“We drive home the point from day one with our guards about the impact they can have and the consequences for failure,” said Rowland, who began his career with the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) 17 years ago as a lifeguard. “They complete training knowing that at any moment they may be needed to make the difference between life or death.

“We are incredibly proud to have such a strong reaction to these training videos. It isn’t just about training lifeguards anymore. It has evolved into creating public awareness on important issues such as adult supervision around the water and making sure kids get taught how to swim.”

In October 2015, Rowland was awarded by the World Waterpark Association (WWA) for innovative and effective safety training and

awareness for capturing and sharing these real-life rescue situations. According to the WWA, Rowland’s efforts “represent lifeguards in a

positive light and spark important discussions on swimmer safety, parental responsibility, and the

importance of learning to swim.”

She is gifted with the ability to see the best in every person

she encounters - and, if she says “bless your heart,” you

know she really means it.


When you call the Greenville County Recreation administrative office, your call is NOT answered by an automated phone answering system. Thank goodness, you are instead fortunate enough to be greeted with a very gracious and welcoming “County Recreation” intoned in a distinctive warm, southern cadence by the one and only Patricia Rector. Ms. Pat, as she is affectionately known to us, is much more than Greenville County Parks, Recreation, & Tourism’s main receptionist – she is, in a very real way, our “Director of First Impressions.” Whether you come into our office, speak to her over the phone, or work with her on a daily basis, you immediately develop an appreciation for this lovely lady who is always quick with a ready smile and whose authentically caring personality wraps around you. You know you’re in great hands with Ms. Pat. You know your question, your reservation, your concern is important to her; that you are important to her. She is gifted with the ability to see the best in every person she encounters - and, if she says “bless your heart,” you know she really means it. In an era where exceptional customer service is often espoused by organizations as being of utmost importance yet is ironically so rarely to be found, Ms. Pat is the epitome of truly exceptional customer service.

We at GCPRT have been blessed to call her “ours” for 40 years now. During this time, she has become beloved by both staff and patrons alike. In fact, it’s not uncommon for our staff who are out and about in the community and wearing Greenville County Recreation logo apparel, to be asked about specifically about Ms. Pat either by name or as “that nice lady who answers your phone” – and then, without exception, they compliment her. Without a doubt, she is one of GCPRT’s greatest ambassadors to our community. What a wonderful day back on November 3, 1975 when Ms. Pat first crossed our threshold. Thank you, Ms. Pat, for 40 years of unparalleled dedication and service – and thank you for strengthening our agency and our community and making each one of us around you better.

Bless herHeart

MAKING A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION

IN GREENVILLE COUNTY


John Cantey, Park Director for Seven Oaks Park, Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission, answered the call at 6:30 a.m. on October 4. Would Seven Oaks be a shelter for those displaced from the flood waters?

And so it began. The doors opened at 9 a.m. and the first family to arrive was an older couple accompanied by their two dogs. They’d

been awakened by the rising waters, lapping at their bed. They escaped with the clothes on their backs and their furry companions. They were given a room in which to rest.

Throughout the days that followed, Seven Oaks Park served as a hub for the entire community. Between 43-126 people on any given day (plus 15 dogs, three birds, and two cats) found refuge there. At first, the staff improvised with exercise pallets as beds, before the Red Cross was able to deliver beds for all. Everyone was warm, safe and dry – and quickly, well fed.

“The amount of support which we received was incredible, but not really surprising given the nature of this community,” explained Cantey. “If we had a need, we put it on social media, and sometimes in less than an hour, requested assistance would arrive.” Help came from public and private institutions, from individuals, churches and companies. Because there are no showers at the park, vans were used to transport folks to Irmo High School and Redeemer Lutheran Church to the showers at those facilities.

Companies brought pet food for the animals, and kennels were rounded up. Everybody – two-legged or four-legged – got along beautifully. Staff volunteered to play with children and help them find activities.

“A gentleman walked through the front door, early during the first week, and paid for every child to attend our afterschool program,” explained Cantey. The youngsters were entertained, and their families able to focus on the issues of damaged homes.

Seven Oaks Park also served as a distribution point for food. “Stuart Stout organized our food donations and supervised assembling boxes containing enough food for a family of four for three days,” said Cantey. “Volunteers from the community joined staff in putting it all together. I counted 480 boxes in one day.”

In about two weeks, the families and animals made more permanent arrangements, and any leftover food was packed up and given to our local Snack Pack program, and Sharing God’s Love, the local food pantry. Supplies that weren’t used were sent to the storage shelter at School District Five of Richland and Lexington Counties. Nothing was wasted.

Seven Oaks Park served as the hub where it all came together. It’s the place where all ages enjoy recreation, education and community in Irmo. For years, it’s built community for all.

The park and staff served its neighbors well during this time of crisis. Everyone, from large corporations, to individuals, knew that it was where help was available, and where donations would be used to benefit those in need.

The staff has great stories from the experience. The families will never forget the support they received. It was coordinated with compassion and skill by John Cantey and his staff and volunteers. In a time of tragedy and devastation, Seven Oaks Park continued to build community among all who came through its doors. “Good, dedicated people joined together to help out our neighbors,” said Elizabeth Taylor, Executive Director of Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission. “I have never been as proud of our heroes.”

After the Flood

John Cantey, Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission

Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission Answers the Call

The park and staff served its neighbors well during this time of crisis. Everyone, from large corporations, to individuals, knew that it was where help was available, and where donations would be used to benefit those in need.


The Florence Veterans Park to honor those who served is the No. 1 tourist attraction in Florence, SC according to Trip Advisor. The park, located near the intersections of I-20 and I-95 at 601 Woody Jones Blvd., commemorates 20th century US military involvement. Barringer Fox Wingard, Jr. Colonel (retired) US Army presents a relaxed persona during an interview to gather information on the development of the park. A Veterans Park was the vision of former Florence Mayor Frank Willis who presented the idea to a team of citizens as early as 2003. The project was announced to the public in June of 2005.

Colonel Wingard, who served nearly 23 years active duty, 15 years in the South Carolina National Guard, and a 26 month recall from retirement, along with other Patriot volunteers got to work. Wingard explained that after extensive searches for property the approximately 6 acres behind the Civic Center was donated by the estate of the late R. P. Byrd and by WW II veteran fighter pilot and former SC State House of Representative, Edward L. Young. The $2 million Florence Veterans Park was dedicated on November 11, 2008.

The ceremony took place on a chilly, sunny Veterans Day morning with the unveiling of the three pillar 30-foot tall obelisk designed and created by Brown Memorial and sculptor Alex Palkovich. Each of the six branches of the US military is represented with a bronze medallion. The memorial is crowned with a bronze American Bald Eagle with a 10 foot wing span created by Palkovich. The Feature Memorial was voted the international award winner in the Public/Civic Memorial category by the American Institute of Commemora-tive Art in 2009.

By Teresa Simons, City of Florence

Colonel Wingard

Makes a Difference

Barringer Fox Wingard, Jr. Colonel (retired) US Army

Winter 2015 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 15Winter 2015 • SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks 15

Wingard explained that another monument unveiled on this prestigious day is the ‘Wall of Honor.’ The wall is funded by private donations and sales of plaques to honor veterans from the Pee Dee Region. The City of Florence Recreation

Department, Florence Chamber of Commerce and Brown Memorial have brochures/applications with information about purchasing a plaque.

The 9/11 Monument, designed by Alex Palkovich, holds block 648 within a pentagon shape, which is supported by twin towers of steel and recognizes first responders and salutes the men and

women of the armed forces. Wingard drove to the Pentagon in Arlington, VA to pick up the limestone block in an SUV.

Barry Wingard, who serves as the Chair of the Florence Veterans Park Commission, shared information about other monuments and memorials that include: WWI, WWII, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Desert Storm and the first Persian Gulf War. Monuments to POW-MIA pledging that we “Never Forget”, Desert Storm, and to honor Purple Heart Recipients are each located in the Florence Veterans Park.

Colonel Wingard continues to serve and is humbled to be a part of this ongoing project.

Photos: City of Florence Florence Veteran’s Park


I would like to tell you about the most dedicated park and recreation professional I and everyone who knows him will ever see. Since 1988, he has arrived at work before 6:30 a.m., seeing many a sunrise. This man truly loves who he works for - the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) - and lives for making the parks and its employees better every day.

David Chappell started as a park manager at Folly Beach County Park, but soon became the director of Maintenance as CCPRC took off with a decade-long growth of adding parks and personnel. A few years ago, he became the director of Capital Projects along with Fleet Maintenance, Facility Support, and the Holiday Festival of Lights.

Going into a park, David’s experienced eye notes hundreds of things going on, down to the smallest detail: the lake level is up from rain, grass has

been cut but some spots missed, roadways, signs, fences, trees, buildings, playgrounds, waterparks, campground, shelters, electrical, waterlines, drainage, boardwalks, docks, lighting, and the list goes on and on. He takes it all in and is always looking to keep the parks at a “Grade A” level.

However, more than just the overall condition of the parklands, his greatest attribute is his love for people. Yes, Mr. Chappell is known for striking up a friendly conversation with any park patron, but what he really cares the most about is how his employees are doing. David is a no-nonsense kind of guy and gives the impression that he is all about park business, but behind that serious demeanor he is extremely dedicated to the individuals he works with and cares about. He understands their work challenges and does his best to be supportive in their personal lives, along with motivating them to achieve the highest professional standards. David’s strength is coaching people and instilling

good work habits and practices. Much of the staff may not even realize it, but his leadership has been a major positive influence in their lives.

One of David Chappell’s most cherished accomplishments, besides his family, is the growth and success of the Holiday Festival of Lights. Twenty-six years of working with Rich Raab, the guru who creates and runs the show, has given David the tremendous satisfaction of seeing thousands of visitors’ eyes light up with happiness. Whether you visit Charleston County Parks’ light show, waterparks, campground, beach, boat landings, marina, equestrian center, climbing walls, rural recreation facilities, interpretive center, piers, or day use parks, David has been a big part of making CCPRC what it is today. The customers’ enjoyment of beautiful, safe parks maintained by a caring, well-trained staff is David Chappell’s reward for his many thousands of hours of dedication to the parks.

By Andy Hammill, Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission

David Chappell Oversees Charleston County Park and Recreation’s Holiday Festival of Lights

DEDICATED TO MAKING SEASONS BRIGHT

David Chappell


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With approximately 46,000 registered participants annually, Mount Pleasant Recreation Department (MPRD) activities make a difference in our community.

The department’s team effort to serve our community is a culmination of

outstanding individual contributions by staff members to serve the public. One such team member whose work truly makes a positive difference in the lives of our participants is recreation specialist, Anne Selner.

It goes to show, if you love what you do, it comes naturally. For the past 15 years, Ms. Selner has utilized her time and her talent in providing Mount Pleasant with exceptional summer camps, holiday camps, special events, and a variety of youth and adult programs throughout the year. Anne spearheads some of the town’s most popular activities including Kidsgrow (pre-k program), and summer youth trip camps which

generate lines of residents eager to register. Each year Anne tackles the enormous task of interviewing and hiring more than 15 temporary summer camp counselors and does an outstanding job of training and managing them through the summer. The impact of Anne’s efforts is evident in the glowing compliments and appreciation seen in feedback from participants and parents. Without question, Anne is passionate about her work and our residents are passionate in their appreciation of her programs.

In addition to making a difference through program excellence, Anne also makes a difference to the town and the department through her willingness to volunteer and help wherever needed. Whether she is getting up at 4:00 A.M. to bring folks to the start line of the Cooper River Bridge Run, helping out at Children’s Day and Special Olympics events, or filling in when areas are short staffed, Anne is the first to volunteer.

Ms. Selner is a valuable member of the MPRD team and truly gives of herself while at work and in support of her community. Through her professionalism, and dedication, she makes a difference in the lives of customers, our department and our town.

Making a Difference in Mount Pleasant

ANYONE CAN

RECOGNIZING VOLUNTEERS

Anne Selner, Recreation Specialist

The North Augusta Activities Center (AC) relies heavily on volunteer assistance from members of the community to staff our building. Three times a year, we recognize an individual that has shown exceptional service to our membership and dependability to our staff.

Our latest honoree is David Mulder. Trying to capture the true essence of an individual can be difficult in a column, but here is my attempt. David has the traits of many people in our community. He is the proud grandfather of 7 and loves his family. After an accident his son was in, both he and wife Linda have provided him extensive care at home over the past year. Linda, a former volunteer herself, had to resign to care for her son but David has continued to serve our facility. He is retired from the US Army and Roses Department Stores and has remained quite active in “retirement”.

David has also developed a popular book program that has been shared by many. He volunteers at Mercy Ministries, managing a warehouse of items to help the needy. An overabundance of books, both in paperback and hard cover led him to bring a few to the AC to share with others. The free program allows people to take a book, pass it along when complete or bring it back to the shelf for others to enjoy. It

has also prompted people to bring in books they have to contribute to the inventory. We located a small book shelf to keep the supply handy and it has encouraged members, including myself, to read a little bit more.

The key to childhood success in school is reading, and comprehension. What better way to influence a child or adult than to lead by example. Share a book with someone and ask a young person what they are reading. It is a great conversation starter and you may just encourage someone to start a life-long enjoyment of the activity of reading.

What if you were given a coaching job and told to coach for 37 years and never receive a dime for it? Would you accept the job and look at it as opportunity, or would you decline and look for something else? Most of us would

decline and look for something that had a little more in it for us. What if you looked at it as an opportunity to reach, touch, and impact 37 years of lives? That is exactly what Dave Copeland did and is still doing.

Dave Copeland, now retired from youth sports coaching, coached for 37 years in the Moncks Corner Recreaion basketball and football programs. His title was volunteer coach for all 37 of those years. Known as “Coach” or “Cope”, Dave rarely goes anywhere in the small town of Moncks Corner without someone calling out to him and saying hello. Most of those people know him from being former players of his throughout their youth sports careers. Dave lives and breathes sports, especially youth sports. The way he talks to youth, coaches them, and invests in their lives on and off the field is

truly incredible. The lives he has impacted and paths he has changed for so many children of this area is really something to speak about.

Dave now coaches basketball at Berkeley High School, officiates youth sports games in Moncks Corner, works Summer league programs to keep kids in the gym and off the streets in the summer, serves on the Recreation Committee, and still attends most every youth basketball and football game held in Moncks Corner. Although his youth coaching career has ended, he is still selflessly investing in youth athletes and making a huge difference in every life he touches. To Dave, sports and kids are what he knows; to others looking in, it is a first class example of taking the time and treasures you have been given and using them to change the world, or someone’s world.

So the question still is, would you coach and give up your time year after year and never receive a dime for it? I think the real question is, has Dave Copeland received far more than money could ever give anyone? That is the fulfillment of changing lives and encouraging our youth to be the best they can be in life. On or off the field, Dave has impacted this community in a way very few ever have or ever will. I hope people use Dave as inspiration to invest in people and require nothing in return. The real reward here are the lives that have been touched.

Mulder Volunteer of Quarter in North Augusta

37 Years as Volunteer Coach in Moncks Corner

Dave Copeland, Volunteer Coach


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

SOUTH CAROLINARECREATION & PARKS ASSOCIATION

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SCRPA Winter 2015-16