Mattese Lecque, Chair COMMISSIONERS:
Andy Thomas, Vice Chair Collin Bruner Teddy Manos, Secretary-Treasurer Benjy Cooke
Tom O’Rourke, Executive Director Lisa King
Ravi Sanyal
Commission Update
______
May 12, 2016
Commission Meeting – Monday, May 16, at 5:30, or immediately following the 4:30pm Finance Committee meeting. – CCPRC Headquarters.
Commission Meeting Highlights
AGENDA REVIEW and HIGHLIGHTS
Guests:
There is a possibility of an appearance by Elliott Summey, Chair of Charleston County Council. I have not spoken to him or communicated with him since my previous email explaining the purpose of his attendance. There is also a possibility that he may not come to our meeting. I choose to not make this an agenda item. If he arrives he will be heard in Public Comment section of the meeting. I see no justification for this item to be an executive session item.
Finance Committee:
Spring Grove:
Julie has described this well in the document within your packet and also included the Purchase and Sale agreement.
To summarize, the Commission, some time ago, agreed to purchase the Spring Grove Property with funding coming primarily from Greenbelt funds. There was also funding that the Wetlands America Trust, obtained from a grant from the South Carolina Conservation Bank, in exchange for conservation easements on the property. We are moving toward the closing, and Charleston County Legal Staff recommended a very minor adjustment relating to this. The memo explains this well and Julie will explain at the meeting.
Santee Cooper Electrical Easement at the former Baker Hospital Site:
This action is described in detail by Kevin in your packet. In summary, this action will impact .036 acres of the site, valued at $9,720 to be paid by Santee Cooper.
861 Riverland Drive ≈≈≈ Charleston, South Carolina 29412 ≈≈≈ (843) 762-2172 ≈ FAX (843) 762-2683
CHARLESTON COUNTY PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING 861 RIVERLAND DRIVE, CHARLESTON, SC, 29412 MONDAY, MAY 16, 2016
AGENDA I. Call To Order And Welcome Thomas
A. Introduction of Guests and Notification to Media
II. Public Comments Thomas
III. Approval of Minutes Thomas
A. (ACTION) Approval of April 18, 2016 Regular Commission Meeting minutes
IV. Old Business
V. New Business
A. Agency Highlight: Summer Camps Hutton B. Financial Report McManus 1. Checks in Excess of $7500 2. Financial Reports 3. Spring Grove i. (ACTION) Wetlands America Trust (Ducks Unlimited) Conservation Easement ii. (ACTION) WestRock Donation Acceptance 4. (ACTION) Santee Cooper Electric Easement Request at Baker site 5. (ACTION) James Island County Park Fishing Dock Repairs Contract Approval - 2016-015 6. Restaurant RFP 7. ERP Update
VI. Next Meeting
A. Regular Commission Meeting, Monday, June 20, 2016, 5:30pm at CCPRC Headquarters, Charleston, SC UNAPPROVED MINUTES CHARLESTON COUNTY PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING 861 RIVERLAND DRIVE, CHARLESTON, SC, 29412 MONDAY, APRIL 18, 2016
Commission Members Present: Mr. Andy Thomas, Mr. Ravi Sanyal, Mr. Collin Bruner, Mr. Teddy Manos, and Ms. Lisa King
Commission Members Absent: Ms. Mattese Lecque and Mr. Benjy Cooke
Staff Present: Mr. Tom O’Rourke, Mr. David Bennett, Ms. Donna Gueldner, Mr. Kevin Bowie, Mr. Charlie McManus, Mr. David Chappell, Ms. Julie Hensley, Mr. Phil Macchia, Mr. Tommy Hale, Ms. Jeanne Lange, Mr. Matt Driscoll, and Ms. Shanté Ellis
Staff Absent: Mr. Steve Hutton, Ms. Gina Ellis-Strother, and Ms. Jan Coulter
Legal Counsel Present: Mr. Dwayne Green
Guest Present: Mr. Gray Taylor
I. Call To Order And Welcome
A. Introduction of Guests and Notification to Media
The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission met on Monday, April 18, 2016 at the CCPRC Headquarters, Charleston, SC. Mr. Thomas, Acting Chair in Mrs. Lecque’s absence, called the meeting to order and welcomed those in attendance. Mr. Thomas informed those present that notification of the meeting had been sent to the local news media and others requesting notification and asked that the record reflect the Commissioners present.
II. Public Comments
There were no public comments at this meeting.
III. Approval of Minutes A. (ACTION) Approval of minutes of March 21, 2016 Regular Commission Meeting
Motion to approve the minutes of the March 21, 2016 Regular Commission Meeting was made by Mr. Manos, seconded by Mr. Sanyal, and approved by the Commission. (#057-1516)
V. New Business
A. Financial Report
1. Checks in Excess of $7500
Mr. McManus reported on the checks in excess of $7500, stating that all were for the normal course of business.
2. Financial Reports Mr. McManus presented the financial reports for the month of March and had no further questions from the Commission.
3. (ACTION) Bucket Truck Purchase
Mr. Manos asked for the truck’s purpose. Mr. Chappell noted that the truck is used for the Holiday Festival of Lights, to change outdoor lights throughout the agency, and noted that the current truck is a 1997 vehicle.
Motion to approve the purchase of a bucket truck from National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA) cooperative purchasing agreement with Altec Industries, Inc. with the funds coming from the approved Enterprise Budget was made by Mr. Bruner, seconded by Mr. Sanyal, and approved by the Commission. (#058-1516)
4. (ACTION) Patriot Challenge Donation
Motion to accept the Patriot Challenge Donation of $6,880.42 to support Recreation Division programming for veterans and/or veterans with disabilities in FY 2016-2017 was made by Mr. Bruner, seconded by Mr. Sanyal, and approved by the Commission. (#059-1516)
B. Executive Session – Contractual/Legal Matter
Motion to enter into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing a contractual/legal matter was made by Mr. Sanyal, seconded by Mr. Manos, and approved by the Commission. (#060-1516)
Upon coming out of Executive Session, the Chair stated that contractual/legal matters had been discussed.
VI. Next Meeting
A. Regular Commission Meeting, Monday, May 18, 2016, 5:30pm at CCPRC Headquarters, Charleston, SC
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 6:10 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Andy Thomas, Acting Chair Shanté Ellis, Executive Administrative Manager Checks in Excess of $7,500
Date Check # Vendor Description Amount Operating (General Agency & Enterprise) 4/7/2016 13098 Tyler Technologies, Inc 25% Tyler Munis license fee $ 34,447.50 4/7/2016 13099 US Edirect, Inc Rec Dynamics implementation $ 31,500.00 4/8/2016 13106 The Caterer Vendor for Cajun $ 45,513.20 4/8/2016 13110 Palmetto Amusements Vendor for Cajun $ 8,420.93 4/13/2016 13142 AD Specialties & More 2016 Souvenir mugs 4096 $ 16,180.00 4/13/2016 13172 Dock & Marine, Inc Laurel Hill replace boardwalk $ 9,750.00 4/13/2016 13204 SCE&G Agency electric $ 48,203.90 4/13/2016 13218 Water Safety Products Lifeguard uniforms $ 11,468.42 4/21/2016 13238 Adams Outdoor Advertising Billboard advertising $ 8,300.00 4/21/2016 13268 Duffield, Inc 75 buckets pulsar briquettes $ 9,648.64 4/21/2016 13270 First Lab Employee lab expenses $ 8,351.25 4/21/2016 13277 Keith's Trailer Repair Body repair bus 4836 $ 10,310.76 4/21/2016 13288 Rightstar Systems, Inc BMC Remedyforce Support x13 $ 10,155.60 4/27/2016 13456 Charleston Water System Agency water $ 16,018.07 4/27/2016 13496 Tyler Technologies, Inc Tyler Munis implementation and change management $ 14,462.50
Capital Improvement Projects 4/1/2016 1017 Blutide Marine Construction Bulow bulkhead repair $ 26,878.00 4/1/2016 1018 Network Cabling Infrastructures, Inc Fiber optic installation JICP $ 77,331.57 4/13/2016 1019 Blutide Marine Construction Bulow bulkheard repair $ 10,665.60 4/13/2016 1020 Hightower Construction, Inc Skatepark design and construction $ 396,164.00 4/21/2016 1021 VSC Fire & Security Design/build FBFP fire system $ 13,117.50
Payroll 4/25/2016 1577 Blue Choice Health Plan Employee health insurance $ 133,242.50 4/25/2016 1581 South Carolina Retirement System Retirement $ 223,118.58 4/25/2017 1583 United Concordia Insurance Dental insurance $ 8,935.58 4/27/2016 1587 South Carolina Retirement System Retirement $ 149,058.16 Combined and Governmental Statements
Combined General and Enterprise Funds Prior Year to Date- Year to date- Current year April 2016 Actuals Actuals budget % of Budget General Fund Revenues 13,293,913 15,435,592 14,553,915 106% Enterprise Revenues 10,905,922 11,503,214 15,675,215 73% Total Operating Revenues 24,199,835 26,938,806 30,229,130 89%
General Fund Expenditures 9,933,423 10,057,621 14,319,110 70% Enterprise Expenses 10,976,929 11,057,987 15,453,550 72% Total Operating Expenses 20,910,352 21,115,608 29,772,660 71% Net Income/(Loss) 3,289,483 5,823,198 456,470
Prior Year to Date- Year to date- Current year General Fund April 2016 Actuals Actuals budget % of Budget Revenues Tax Millage 12,806,278 14,390,557 13,748,010 105% Administration 167,063 661,711 169,260 391% Executive - - - 0% Marketing - - - 0% Human Resources - - - 0% Financial Services - - - 0% Park and Recreation Services 17,852 23,215 43,200 54% Recreation 299,855 358,384 590,935 61% Maintenance - - - 0% Planning - - - 0% Park Operations 2,865 1,725 2,510 69% Total Revenues 13,293,913 15,435,592 14,553,915 106%
Expenditures Administration - 518,716 730,570 71% Executive 735,946 637,018 913,315 70% General Services 1,567,527 1,552,186 2,606,820 60% Marketing 709,421 681,740 922,660 74% Human Resources 949,352 850,915 1,203,550 71% Capital Projects 644,921 561,506 818,275 69% Financial Services 872,785 832,433 950,170 88% Park and Recreation Services 651,117 631,588 800,775 79% Recreation 1,682,838 1,783,283 2,505,020 71% Maintenance 1,139,420 978,711 1,389,180 70% Planning 217,870 283,798 293,770 97% Park Operations 762,226 745,727 1,185,005 63% Total Expenditures 9,933,423 10,057,621 14,319,110 70% Change in Fund Balance 3,360,490 5,377,971 234,805 Enterprise Fund Statement
Enterprise Funds April 2016 Prior Year to Date Actuals Year to Date- Actuals Current Year Budget % of Budget Beachwalker Park
Operating Revenue 149,208 138,665 244,470 57%
Operating Expenses 182,437 179,794 261,875 69%
Net Income/(Loss) (33,229) (41,129) (17,405)
Bulow Plantation
Operating Revenue 124,304 118,873 173,470 69%
Operating Expenses 30,031 24,921 52,000 48%
Net Income/(Loss) 94,273 93,952 121,470
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Operating Revenue 21,782 30,641 32,730 94%
Operating Expenses 184,408 182,834 274,455 67%
Net Income/(Loss) (162,626) (152,193) (241,725)
Cooper River Marina
Operating Revenue 661,154 695,590 727,820 96%
Operating Expenses 360,336 368,952 491,035 75%
Net Income/(Loss) 300,818 326,638 236,785
Folly Beach County Park
Operating Revenue 126,922 145,125 234,240 62%
Operating Expenses 153,463 146,658 247,735 59%
Net Income/(Loss) (26,541) (1,533) (13,495)
Folly Beach Fishing Pier
Operating Revenue 1,005,240 997,598 1,358,695 73%
Operating Expenses 929,450 819,733 1,270,040 65%
Net Income/(Loss) 75,790 177,865 88,655
Isle of Palms County Park
Operating Revenue 289,864 290,025 527,455 55%
Operating Expenses 303,883 307,253 466,240 66%
Net Income/(Loss) (14,019) (17,228) 61,215
James Island County Park
Operating Revenue 4,653,384 5,039,145 5,627,270 90%
Operating Expenses 4,010,744 4,024,295 5,294,655 76%
Net Income/(Loss) 642,640 1,014,850 332,615
Laurel Hill Plantation
Operating Revenue 5,336 15,832 10,670 148%
Operating Expenses 7,626 23,162 39,400 59%
Net Income/(Loss) (2,290) (7,330) (28,730) Enterprise Fund Statement
Enterprise Funds April 2016 Prior Year to Date Actuals Year to Date- Actuals Current Year Budget % of Budget McLeod Plantation
Operating Revenue 26,127 186,170 397,610 47%
Operating Expenses 127,743 228,171 292,960 78%
Net Income/(Loss) (101,616) (42,001) 104,650
Mount Pleasant Pier
Operating Revenue 368,936 382,703 499,270 77%
Operating Expenses 480,305 423,983 571,755 74%
Net Income/(Loss) (111,369) (41,280) (72,485)
Move IT
Operating Revenue 250,000 90,517 500,000 18%
Operating Expenses 351,751 436,533 500,000 87%
Net Income/(Loss) (101,751) (346,016) -
Mullet Hall Equestrian Center
Operating Revenue 171,918 162,470 233,115 70%
Operating Expenses 317,718 312,670 427,870 73%
Net Income/(Loss) (145,800) (150,200) (194,755)
Old Towne Creek County Park
Operating Revenue 20,634 20,431 34,940 58%
Operating Expenses 28,753 38,906 69,230 56%
Net Income/(Loss) (8,119) (18,475) (34,290)
Palmetto Islands County Park
Operating Revenue 332,856 392,787 638,675 62%
Operating Expenses 755,479 747,387 1,112,075 67%
Net Income/(Loss) (422,623) (354,600) (473,400)
Park & Recreation Services Enterprise
Operating Revenue 870,454 788,826 1,395,860 57%
Operating Expenses 744,300 741,452 1,096,005 68%
Net Income/(Loss) 126,154 47,374 299,855
Sk8 Charleston
Operating Revenue - - - 0%
Operating Expenses - - 34,055 0%
Net Income/(Loss) - - (34,055)
Wannamaker County Park
Operating Revenue 1,827,803 2,007,816 3,038,925 66%
Operating Expenses 2,008,502 2,051,283 2,952,165 69%
Net Income/(Loss) (180,699) (43,467) 86,760
Total Revenue 10,905,922 11,503,214 15,675,215 73%
Total Expenses 10,976,929 11,057,987 15,453,550 72%
Change in Fund Balance (71,007) 445,227 221,665 Capital Improvement Projects Statement
Current Month Year to Date- Current Year Capital Improvement Projects April 2016 Activity Actuals Budget % of Budget Total Restricted Donation 309,333 309,333 618,667 50% Total 2013 Bond Rollover - - 329,349 0% Total 2015 Bond - 6,000,000 6,000,000 100% Total CIP Revenue 309,333 6,309,333 6,948,016 91%
Capital Expansion Projects Skatepark 2013 Bond Rollover 1,664 189,067 194,122 97% Skatepark 2015 Bond & Donation 394,500 855,482 3,618,667 24%
Master Plans & Design 2015 Bond Projects - 2,639 600,000 0% West Ashley Phase I Bond Rollover - - 24,000 0%
Facility Repairs & Renovations 2015 Bond Projects 138,658 416,145 2,391,865 17% Bulow Bulkhead 2013 Bond Rollover - 19,046 21,954 87% FBFP Piling Encapsulation 2013 Bond Rollover - - 2,673 0% Old Towne Bldgs Stabilization 2013 Bond Rollover - 32,815 86,600 38%
Total CIP Expenses 534,822 1,515,195 6,939,881 22%
Memorandum
DATE: May 11, 2016 TO: Kevin Bowie CC: Tom O’Rourke, David Bennett, Charlie McManus FROM: Julie Hensley RE: Wetlands America Trust (Ducks Unlimited) Conservation Easement for Spring Grove
Wetlands America Trust (WAT), a supporting organization of Ducks Unlimited, Inc., was named as a purchasing partner in CCPRC’s application to the Charleston County Greenbelt Bank Board. WAT has received a grant from the South Carolina Conservation Bank in the amount of $478,500 for the acquisition of a conservation easement on the Spring Grove property. The easement amount was deducted from the funds requested from the Greenbelt Bank Board, counting as leverage towards the overall purchase. Initially, the easement was to be conveyed by WestRock to WAT prior to CCPRC acquiring the property, but County legal staff have advised that the easement should convey after the property is acquired by CCPRC to WAT. The attached Purchase and Sale Agreement outlines the terms of the conveyance. Motion to approve the purchase and sale agreement with Wetlands America Trust for the conveyance of a conservation easement on the Spring Grove property in the amount of $478,500.
Memorandum DATE: May 9, 2016 TO: Kevin Bowie CC: Tom O’Rourke, David Bennett FROM: Julie Hensley RE: Santee Cooper Electric Easement Request at Baker site
Santee Cooper Electric Company, a.k.a. South Carolina Public Service Authority, has requested a 50’ transmission right-of-way easement on a portion of the Baker site abutting I-26. The easement is necessary due to the new Ports Authority ramp under construction on the north side of I-26, necessitating the relocation of the 12kV tap line to the south side of the interstate. This action will impact .036 acres of the site, valued at $9,720 to be paid by Santee Cooper. The easement area will be co-located with the easement that was previously purchased by SCE&G so no additional impacts are anticipated. Recommend entering into an agreement with South Carolina Public Service Authority for utility easement acquisition at the Baker site, acceptance of compensation in the amount of $9,720 for the easement and the proceeds be designated to be used solely for future capital improvements at the Baker Hospital site.
MEMORANDUM
TO: Tom O’Rourke FROM: Charles McManus Date: May 9, 2016 Re: James Island County Park Fishing Dock Repairs Contract Approval - 2016-015
An Invitation for Bid was issued and publically advertised for James Island County Park Fishing Dock Repairs. One firm responded. Rakes Building and Maintenance Contractors, LLC (dba, Blutide Marine Construction) submitted the bid.
Rakes Building & Maintenance Contractors, LLC (dba, Blutide Marine Construction) submitted a bid with the not to exceed amount of $37,375.19.
Recommend approval to enter into a contract with Rakes Building & Maintenance Contractors, LLC (dba Blutide Marine Construction), in the amount of $37,375.19 with funds coming from the approved CIP Budget.
COMMISSION REPORT MAY 2016
1 In the News
‘Mālama,’ to care, is message brought to Lowcountry by world voyaging canoe By Bo Petersen Email Facebook @bopete Apr 13 2016 5:09 pm Apr 13 5:46 pm
They navigate by stars, seas, winds and the birds. They are sailing the globe.
The Hokule’a, a 62-foot-long replica of an ancient double- hulled Hawaiian voyaging sail canoe, is scheduled to land at 2:30 p.m. Thursday — wind and tide willing — at the Charles- ton Maritime Center. Its indigenous crew will be singing tradi- tional chants and blow a ceremonial conch.
On the pier they will be met with traditional greetings by lead- ers of maybe a half-dozen or more Native American tribes in South Carolina and the Lei of Hope will be exchanged.
“Our people lived on the coast, up the Pee Dee (river). It’s a venture, a learning, a greeting, a chance to hold our hand out to someone who comes in fellowship with us from such a far land,” said Pete Parr of McColl, Pee Dee tribe, who hopes to The voyaging canoes of the Polynesians were seaworthy be there. enough and the traditional navigation so keen that the people sailed through 7 million square miles of the Pacific to find and The arrival is open to the public and tours of the canoe might colonize 1,000 islands by the 1300s A.D. Some theorize that be given after the ceremony, time allowing. Public tours will they reached South and North America. be offered from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday. They did it learning by rote the seasonal position, rises and The canoe has come a long way to get here. Since it left Ha- sets of the sun, moon and various constellations — “Where waii headed for the Indian Ocean in 2013, it has covered near- they live, where they come up, where they go to bed,” Ishii ly 28,000 miles on an around-the-world trip that is planned to said, as well as how to read shifts in the wind and currents eventually cover nearly 70,000 miles. and what birds would be coming from or headed where. The Its mission is to keep the tradition and mystique of ancient crews use an adaptation of that tradition today as they sail seafaring alive, to use it to recultivate languishing cultures the reimagined canoe. among other indigenous people. And to teach something “You orient your canoe to whatever you find,” Ishii said. more: environmental sustainability. In Charleston, among other events, crew members will be “To tell the story, so that people care about the ocean, care keynote speakers at the East Coast Sea Kayak Symposium at about the Earth,” said Jenna Ishii, a Polynesian Voyaging Soci- James Island County Park. The event is 8 p.m. Saturday, part ety apprentice navigator who has sailed previous legs of the of the Charleston Outdoor Fest, which runs Friday to Sunday. trip. The canoe belongs to the society. The arrival in Charleston “is huge for me,” said Kekoa Lee of It is a tale to be told. The Hokule’a first sailed in 1975 from Charleston, a native Hawaiian who is helping to organize the Hawaii to Tahiti, to prove the craft could make the cross- Lowcountry stay. “It’s a historic event, to see that many indig- Pacific journey that the lore said discovered the islands. Its enous groups of people come together. It’s my chance to do navigator was the last of his kind, the late Mau Piailug, a Mi- something good for our culture, bringing kinship and having cronesian who had learned the oral tradition of wayfinding. my people here in Charleston.”
2 In the News
CHARLESTON OUTDOOR FESTIVAL SET FOR APRIL 15 – 17 at James Island County Park East Coast Paddlesports & Outdoor Festival gets new name BY SARAH REYNOLDS ON APRIL 14, 2016 ARTS & CULTURE
One of the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commis- expert skills in each sport. Main featured areas and events at sion (CCPRC)’s most popular events has a new name – the James Island County Park’s Charleston Outdoor Festival in- Charleston Outdoor Festival! Formerly known as the East clude: Coast Paddlesports and Outdoor Festival, this 26th annual The Try It Zone –Participants can try their hand at an archery event celebrates the paddlesports and outdoor recreation range, a bike obstacle course, a mountain bike short track, community on April 15-17 at James Island County Park. the Challenge Zone (activities and brain teasers), disc golf, The Charleston Outdoor Festival offers outdoor fun for every the climbing wall, and the slackline course. Plus, Try It pass- age and interest. Featuring one of the country’s premier holders can demo sea kayaks, SUPs, and canoes, from the showcases of canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddleboard- park and from Vendor Village. Open select hours Friday ing (SUP), the three-day event also includes a multitude of through Sunday. outdoor recreation activities like mountain biking, slack lin- East Coast Sea Kayak Symposium – the symposium is a three- ing, archery, climbing, and disc golf. day immersion in the history, technique, hands-on experi- New at this year’s Charleston Outdoor Festival will be the ence, and fun of kayaking, canoeing, SUP and other paddles- participation of crew members from Hōkūleʻa. A project of ports topics. Participants can sign up for classroom presenta- the Polynesian Voyaging Society, this breathtaking double- tions and on-water classes from the world’s top instructors hulled Polynesian voyaging canoe will be in Charleston as in dozens of topics. Programs range from beginner to expert part of its ongoing worldwide voyage. Hōkūleʻa’s crew mem- level skill classes, to sessions on topics like birding by boat, bers will be featured speakers and present at the festival’s kayak rolling, backcountry cooking, fishing, photography and East Coast Sea Kayak Symposium, while their iconic canoe is much more. docked at the Charleston Maritime Center. Palmetto Pump Climbing Competition (Sat.) – Compete or The Charleston Outdoor Festival brings together enthusiasts just watch amazing climbing action at the Wall’s annual na- of all ages and experience levels with world-renowned in- tionally sanctioned Palmetto Pump Climbing Competition. structors and sports equipment manufacturers. Attendees From 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., some of the Southeast’s best will com- can try out equipment, compete in races and other hands-on pete. activities on site, and learn everything from the basics to
3 In the News
OUTDOOR FESTIVAL - continued
Island Toss Disc Golf Tournament (Sat.) – Disc golfers of all Anyone who enjoys being active in the outdoors will find levels are invited to register for a fun PDGA-sanctioned dou- something exciting at the Charleston Outdoor Festival, from bles tournament. Friday, April 15 through Sunday, April 17 at James Island County Park. Park admission starts at $2 per person. To try Vendor Village – Leading manufacturers and outfitters exhibit out activities, get the Try It pass for $10. Or, register for the a wide variety of products in the Vendor Village. Visit the weekend for classes, demos, competitions and much more. village to try out boats and other equipment, talk with ven- For a full event schedule and to register, visit Charles- dors, and get a chance to try before buying. tonCountyParks.com or call 843-795-4386.
Big weekend for outdoor fitness lovers in the Lowcountry Apr 14 2016 9:23 am
This spring weekend is like a bud on a flower that finally to Hall at James Island County Park. The festival basically bursts open with brilliant color and fragrance. features the winning films in a contest. Admission is free.
Like many mega-weekends in the Charleston area, locals A special feature of this year’s festival will be the participa- will have the “good problem” of basically figuring out what tion of crew members from Hokulea, a project of the Polyne- NOT to do. sian Voyaging Society that uses a breathtaking double-hulled “voyaging canoe” around the world. Festival de outdoors Hokulea’s crew members will be featured speakers and pre- For the 26th year, the Charleston County Park and Recrea- sent at the festival’s East Coast Sea Kayak Symposium, while tion Commission will host a festival that celebrates outdoor their iconic canoe is docked at the Charleston Maritime Cen- life. Formerly known as the East Coast Canoe and Kayak Fes- ter. tival and then the East Coast Paddlesports and Outdoor Fes- tival, now it’s simply the Charleston Outdoor Festival. To get a full schedule of events, activities and fees, go to the commission’s website. The festival, which kicks off Friday and runs through Sunday at James Island County Park, still is one of the country’s https://www.ccprc.com/1542/Charleston-Outdoor-Fest premier showcases of canoeing, kayaking and stand-up pad- dleboarding. But the three-day event also includes a multi- tude of outdoor recreation activities such as mountain bik- ing, slack lining, archery, climbing and disc golf.
Among the array of land-based activities will be the Palmetto Pump Climbing Competition, which was long held in March, that will be 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
Meanwhile, the festival and the East Coast Sea Kayak Sympo- sium is proud to host a sneak peek of the sport at the 11th While the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission has changed the name of its annual Reel Paddling Film Festival at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Edis- paddlesports festival to the more encompassing Charleston Outdoor Festival, paddling will continue to be a major component of it. BRIAN FANCHER PHOTOGRAPHY
4 In the News
Ocean paddlers, swimmers urged to know risks, seek safety training Prentiss Findlay Email Facebook @prentissfindlay I Apr 25 2016
Kayaking or swimming in the ocean can seem easy enough on a calm day, but when wind, waves and currents pick up, it’s important to weigh your abilities, experience and preparation against the conditions, experts say.
Otherwise, a paddle or swim that was a piece of cake can turn into a fight for survival.
“Safety is obviously the most important thing,” said Steve Hutton, director of recreation for the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission. “Coming home at the end of the A group of kayakers takes a tour Wednesday on Folly Creek. day is more important than anything else.” Paul Zoeller/Staff
Rip current dangers where they may churn the water, make it cloudier and cause waves to appear disorganized or poorly formed, he said. The American Red Cross recommends swimming at beaches where lifeguards are on duty. Locally, that means county “More rippled and more foamy,” he said. parks at Folly Beach, Kiawah Island and Isle of Palms. “Rip currents can vary in intensity. If caught in one, a swim- Stephen Fernandez works for PRC’s safety program and helps mer should try to remain calm and swim parallel to shore train about 70 lifeguards who work at those three locations rather than against the force of the water flowing seaward. between Memorial Day and Labor Day. After the riptide releases its grip, swim to shore, he said.
“Probably 80 percent of our rescues or swim assists are from “What happens is people will be out on a sandbar at low tide rip currents,” Fernandez said. and the tide starts coming in. They step off the back of a sandbar or a rip current pushes them off the sandbar where A rip current is a channel of water that goes away from shore they can’t touch any more,” he said. out to sea but not necessarily straight out. That happens to a lot of people — just not being aware of Common locations for rip currents are near piers or inlets tides and conditions,” he said. It’s also important to pay at- tention to the weather, stay sober and avoid swimming alone. Lifeguard responses “And even if you are confident in your swimming skills, make 2015 lifeguard responses at Folly Beach, sure you have enough energy to swim back to shore,” the Red Isle of Palms and Kiawah Island County Cross says. Parks: Staying hydrated Rescues: 12
Swim Assists: 92 Most of what PRC lifeguards do is preventative action, such as blowing a whistle to tell swimmers they are too far from Preventative actions: 37,525 shore or in a no-swim zone such as near a pier. Stings: 274 A map and phone numbers is included on kayaks before a EMS calls: 32
5 In the News
Ocean paddlers—continued tour Wednesday on Folly Beach.
The lifeguards also respond to beachgoers who become dehydrated in the hot sun. Cooling winds and waters are not enough. It’s important to drink water rather than caffeinat- ed soft drinks or alcohol.
“That’s the big thing in Charleston is the heat on the beach,” Fernandez said.
Like swimmers, kayakers can get into trouble in the ocean if conditions exceed their abilities. Fernandez said he helped Their cellphones were in Brown’s truck, officials said. rescue some kayakers last summer at Folly Beach County Park when he was training lifeguards during a weekend surf “It breaks my heart when I hear about death on the water, school. The paddlers who needed help were caught in chop- especially when it involves kayaks and kids. And especially py waves and windy conditions at the Stono River inlet. because almost 100 percent of the time it could have been avoided with just a little bit of knowledge,” Crowley said. “They tried to turn back, and that’s when they got into trou- ble. A couple of them fell out and they were trying to help A state Department of Natural Resources aircraft spotted each other,” Fernandez said. Brown on April 10 clinging to his kayak. When Brown was pulled from the sea, he told authorities that Britt was dead, The lifeguards used kayaks and paddleboards to rescue according to a Sheriff’s Office report. them, he said. “He (Brown) said that they had both been holding onto their “They were just trying to keep their heads above water,” kayaks and he looked away for a second and then looked Fernandez said. back and he saw his friend’s kayak but his friend was gone,” A recent tragedy the report states. On April 17, two people on a late-afternoon stroll at Botany The dangers of paddling in unfavorable conditions were Bay on Edisto Island called authorities to report a body highlighted earlier this month in an incident that claimed the washed up on the beach. The coroner identified the de- life of Dean Britt, 20, who drowned while kayaking with Lo- ceased as Britt. gan Brown, 21, who was rescued 4 miles at sea between Folly Beach and Kiawah Island, officials said. The PRC offers kayaking and other paddlesports classes. Earlier this month, more than 2,000 people attended the The friends launched in mid-afternoon on April 9 at the east PRC’s Charleston Outdoor Fest, which featured the East end of Folly Island. They were reportedly going to Morris Coast Sea Kayak Symposium. Island. At the time, a National Weather Service advisory warned of hazardous wind and wave conditions for small Most kayakers prefer inland waters, marshes and tidal craft and inexperienced mariners. West winds were blowing creeks to offshore paddling, where the wind, waves and between 23 and 28 mph with gusts to 35 mph, officials said. currents are more intense.
“If it’s blowing like that, we don’t do any rentals or tours “I certainly wouldn’t want the message to be that nobody near the coast,” said Chris Crowley, owner of Coastal Expedi- should paddle in those (offshore) environments,” Hutton tions. said. “It’s just that you need a lot more training and practice and equipment and experience before you do it.” Neither Britt nor Brown were reported to be wearing a life vest. Reach Prentiss Findlay at 843-937-5711.
6 In the News
CALENDAR, April 4+: Wining it down, baseball’s back, farmers market BY ANDY BRACK, 04/04/2016 10:28 am·
Wine Down Wednesday: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., April 6, Old Towne Creek County Park, West Ashley. Enjoy this future park off Old Towne Road with a wine social that features live music from Chris Dodson. Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 on day of admission. More info.
Lowcountry Voices: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., April 10, McLeod Plantation Historic Site, James Island. The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission will host this group to sing freedom songs in a powerful setting as part of a special con- cert. More: CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Charleston Outdoor Festival: April 15-17, James Island County Park. The 26th annual birds fly through the Lowcountry so what better time to take festival celebrates paddles- part in one of the regular early morning bird walks at Caw ports and outdoor recreation. Caw Interpretive Center in Ravenel. Pre-registration is sug- This year, the event will host gested. Cost is $10. Walks also are conducted on James Is- the Polynesian Voyaging Society and crew members from land and Folly Beach. Learn more online. the legendary Hōkūleʻa, a breathtaking double-hulled Poly- (NEW) Opening day: 7:05 p.m., April 7, Joe Riley Stadium, nesian voyaging canoe will be in Charleston as part of its Charleston. The Charleston RiverDogs have their home ongoing worldwide voyage. Some of the ship’s crew will opener against the new Columbia Fireflies in a minor league speak 8 p.m. April 16 at Edisto Hall during the festival. More: baseball game that starts a seven-game homestand. CharlestonCountyParks.com. (There’s an exhibition game the night before at the same Bird walks: 8:30 a.m. to noon, every Wednesday and Satur- time against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans). More. day. This is the time of year that a great variety of migrating (NEW) Charleston Farmers Market: Reopens for the year, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., April 9, Marion Square, Charleston. Every Saturday until the end of November, the market will offer produce, games, fun and food. More info.
If you have an event to list on our calendar, please send it to
[email protected] for consideration. The cal- endar is updated weekly on Mondays.
7 In the News
‘Staycation,’ just a little bit longer Frank Wooten Columnist April 5 2016 6:00 am
Charleston’s charms peak into full bloom each spring. freshly appreciative Charleston native recommends getting outside while the getting’s still good — with or without paid So do the psyche-restoration rewards of a local leave. “staycation”— if you’re savvy enough to stick around here during your spring time off. That is, before rising ranks of bugs and climbing tempera- tures turn sweet spring into suffering summer. That’s a location-location-location blessing if you’re lucky enough to be not just a tri-county resident but one who can Thus, take a break, even a short one, to bask in the mood- take time off at this naturally glorious time of the year. elevating enchantments of:
Hampton Park: The funky old zoo’s long (more than four decades) gone. Yet intriguing critters, including ducks, geese, more exotic birds, squirrels, dogs and some usually friendly homo sapiens, still abound.
So does beautiful horticulture, including the red-and-white flowering tree shown with this column in an exclusive image captured by this photojournalist 12 days ago.
And like so many Charleston places, Hampton Park has a fascinating past.
A two-week respite from the work- From the Preservation Society of ing grind reconfirmed that benefit Charleston’s website: of living in this community. “From 1792 until 1882, the Washing- That pleasure of place, routinely ton Race Course, a one-mile loop taken for granted by so many who around today’s Hampton Park, fea- live here, extends throughout the tured the finest horse racing in the Charleston area. South.”
Then again, my staycation ended much too soon on Mon- The site also featured the first Memorial Day ceremony on day. May 31, 1865, as freshly freed slaves paid tribute to the Un- ion soldiers who died while being held prisoner there. Or did it? In a typical twist of Holy City irony, a statue of slave rebellion For while tasty restaurants, big-time entertainment, historic leader Denmark Vesey was dedicated two years ago at the architecture, award-winning politeness and other often- park named for a Confederate general, Wade Hampton, who indoor attractions draw visitors from around the world, this later became governor.
8 In the News
‘Staycation’ - continued
But Hampton Park has lately been marred by oversized pow- The Pitt Street Bridge: Another East Cooper treasure, nearly er poles and lines. up to the Intracoastal Waterway separating Mount Pleasant from Sullivan’s Island, this is a popular fishing/crabbing spot. The park is better off without that antiquated, far from hu- But its best catch is a panorama of the harbor, including Fort mane zoo, too. Sumter, Morris Island, James Island and downtown Charles- ton. After all, long ago, an emotionally unstable monkey there relieved himself on an innocent lad — me.
Newcomers aren’t new Charles Towne Landing: It does have a zoo of sorts — the Animal Forest. This sprawling slice of Lowcountry landscape also has epic history of its own as South Carolina’s first per- manent European settlement (1670). And it has dandy, scenic walking trails through woods alongside marshes.
Breach Inlet: The waterway separating the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island offers up-close perspectives on dolphins and anglers. It has warning signs about treacherous swimming conditions. Good for what ails you The inlet also delivers compelling evidence of the folly (and So are you bummed out about your dead-end job, your lack not just at Folly Beach) of building houses (especially big of a job, our intensifying traffic, bike-lane disputes, unseemly ones) too close to the briny deep. Too bad so many more presidential politics, road-funding woes and/or Sunday such structures have been built on that weak and shifting night’s “No Holds Barred Street Fight” defeat of the dynamic sand in recent decades. Dean Ambrose (aka “Lunatic Fringe”) by big bully Brock Le- snar at Wrestlemania 32 before a crowd of 101,763 at Cow- Palmetto Islands County Park: A rambling creekside expanse boys Stadium in Arlington, Texas? of unspoiled property near Long Point Road in Mount Pleas- ant, it has a water park, fishing and crabbing docks, and a Park that fruitless fretting someplace else and get out and “Nature Island” where a deer bounded across my forward about in these wonderful parts. path just 20 yards or so away a few years ago. And if you’re embarrassed to know that nearly 27,000 vigor- ous folks (counting walkers) finished the Cooper River Bridge Run while you didn’t even try, try walking the grand Ravenel’s pedestrian lane.
You can ascend to a heck of a viewpoint — regardless of sea- son.
You might even take your first step toward participating in next year’s Bridge Run — or at least the Walk.
Frank Wooten is assistant editor of The Post and Courier. His email is [email protected].
9 In the News
Skate park underway in Charleston's neck area By Meaghan Wallace, Reporter I Updated:Tuesday, April 26th 2016, 4:47 pm EDT I
CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC) - In just a few months, skateboarders in Charleston will have a place to call their own. Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission is building at $5 million dollar skate park in the neck of the peninsula. It is expected to draw in skateboarders from around the region.
Trip Calloway, 10, and his mother, Katy, are just two of many local skateboarder enthusiasts who are anxiously awaiting the grand opening of the skate park, called Sk8 Charleston.
"To see this come to fruition has been awesome," said Katy Calloway. "I know the kids are excited, I know some par- The skate park facility will take up 32,500 square feet, or ents that are excited too." about 3 of the acres, of the property. Some of that is marsh leading up to the unfinished bridge. It's been a facility local skateboarders have been pushing for for years. It's developed by Team Pain, a world renowned skate park design company. Sk8 Charleston has bowls, the deepest being "We have to make sure that we have something for every- 12 feet, and an area called the snake, with over 200 feet of body and I believe the skaters have kind of not been repre- high and low stretches of smooth pavement. sented, as they should, in the past. So, we wanted to do this and we wanted to do this on a large scale," said Tom "I like things like that, where there's not too many steep O'Rourke, Charleston County Parks and Recreation Com- drops," said Trip Calloway, young skater. mittee. There's also a street course, with a flat surface and raised Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission bought elements, like rails and stairs. The park will have parking and a the roughly 25-acre plot of land specifically for this project. building, with first aid, bathrooms and snacks for sale. 1549 Oceanic Street is located in between I-26 and the Park officials say skaters of all ages and skill levels will be wel- "bridge to no where" (yet). come. It's very close to where a mixed-used development called the "There's a great fellowship around skateboarding and they Magnolia Project is set to be built. Charleston city officials say kind of take care of each other and learn from each other," that with the peninsula close to capacity, the neck is the next said Katy Calloway. place for growth. The park will be monitored and users will pay a day pass, or "We wanted to be in the peninsula, but there were very few membership fee. Developers say the project should be com- sites in the peninsula and a lot of them had restrictions," said plete and ready for riding by late fall. O'Rourke. Copyright WCSC 2016. All rights reserved.
10 In the News
Crews working to finish SK8 Charleston park BY JASON TIGHE TUESDAY, APRIL 26TH 2016
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — The Lowcountry skating commu- nity will soon have a new place to hit the rails. SK8 Charleston is being built just a few miles north of Charleston, and photo- journalist Jason Tighe stopped by the park to get a look at what's coming.
Underway in Charleston, South Carolina April 2016
Skateboarders and enthusiast’s in South Carolina are or inquires is still being developed and can be found at awaiting the new 32,500 square ft skate park to be open www.ccprc.com. Updates on the park’s progress will be post- within the next few months! Located at 1549 Oceanic Street ed on this page regularly. and just a few miles North of Downtown the $5 million dollar Click the link below to watch Channel 5 New’s Video/Article project has been advocated for years and is finally going to on the skate park be completed this Fall. Special thanks to Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission for making this skate park http://www.live5news.com/story/31822134/skate-park- a reality! Any info on the park concerning rules, regulations underway-in-charlestons-neck-area
11 In the News
Charleston County Parks launches Adaptive Outdoor Recreation Club Published: 4/1/2016 3:43:46 PM
In an effort to provide ongoing recreation opportunities for Activities will be offered at various CCPRC sites including community members with disabilities, the Charleston Coun- James Island County Park, the Mount Pleasant Pier and Folly ty Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC), along with Beach County Park. The first venture in the Adaptive Out- Adaptive Expeditions, launched the Adaptive Outdoor Rec- door Recreation Club was a very successful archery program reation Club in March. The first season of events includes held in March. Next will be a surfing program offered on surfing, climbing, paddling, archery and fishing. May 1 at Folly Beach County Park. This is the second time CCPRC has offered an adaptive surfing program. Surfing pros The goal of the and volunteers from Ocean Cure, Wheel to Surf, and the club is to pro- Adaptive Surfing Project will help participants into the water vide people with and onto the waves using adaptive techniques. The adaptive disabilities the surfing program will be offered from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sun- opportunity to day, May 1, and while no fee is required to participate, ad- try various out- vance registration is required to ensure availability of equip- door activities in ment. a relaxed setting among their The Adaptive Outdoor Recreation Club comes after CCPRC peers. hosted successful Adaptive Recreation Expo events in 2014 and 2015. Through the expo, CCPRC developed partnerships CCPRC joins forc- with organizations that provide support for people with es with Adaptive disabilities throughout the community, helping expand the Expeditions to agency’s AccessABILITY offerings. Launched in 2012, offer fun and CCPRC’s AccessABILITY program strives to meet the growing informative ac- needs of community members with limitations. The pro- tivities specifically to serve these community members. gram provides therapeutically based recreation offerings for Knowledgeable staff are on hand to make adaptations to people with cognitive and physical disabilities to promote allow each person to participate successfully so that they physical fitness, health, wellness, increased self-esteem and may enjoy activities they once thought were not accessible greater independence. to them, while developing skills and honing specific inter- ests. CCPRC has equipment and trained staff to allow for Other upcoming programs in the Adaptive Recreation Club these adaptations in surfing, climbing, paddling, archery and will vary in price, with most offered at a price of $10-$12. fishing. Registration and details are available at CharlestonCounty- Parks.com, or by calling 843-795-4386. Local blogger Alex Jackson of “Tuesday Talk with Alex” is a faithful patron and supporter of adaptive programming at Other upcoming programs as part of the AccessABILITY CCPRC. “The adaptive recreation activities provide new op- program will include the Special Needs Superhero Dance portunities for people with disabilities,” said Jackson. “They Party on May 11, and three Special Needs Swim Nights at include sports that I may not have thought about like ar- Charleston County waterparks this summer. For more infor- chery and surfing.” mation on the Adaptive Outdoor Recreation Club or any CCPRC program, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com or call
843-795-4386. 12 In the News
MYSTERY: Charleston’s all-gender bathroom
Charleston Currents· 05/01/2016 5:45 pm
There’s at least one place in Charleston that doesn’t need to fool with all of the legislative nonsense over state Sen. Lee Bright’s transgender “bathroom bill” as is clearly labeled in this photo by editor Andy Brack. But where is it? Send your best guess to: [email protected] — and make sure to include the name of the town in which you live.
note: originally the house was oriented to the south with a one-story raised porch supported by square columns. In 1925, the principal facade was reoriented to be the rear or northern side of the house and included the addition of that projecting portico supported by those four fluted Doric col- umns on the raised concrete porch base.”
Thanks for the history of this house in a recently-added coun- ty park. Hats off also to the Rev. Callie Walpole of Charleston, Last week’s Mystery Photo was a stumper, but one person for who won RiverDogs’ ticket vouchers for being the first to whom it was easy was Charleston County Parks’ Kristina guess correctly. Thanks also for correct guesses by Chris Wheeler: “It’s the McLeod Plantation house. Interesting to Brooks of Mount Pleasant and Stephen Yetman of Charleston.
Farmers’ Market Starts Strong By Jennifer Tuohy, Island Eye News Editor I Photos by Steve Rosamilia
Charleston County Parks offering CSA starting April
The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission is offering Community Supported Agriculture featuring fresh vegetables from Ambrose Family Farm on Wadmalaw Is- land. Seasons kick off the week of April 24, and options are available for a six-week season or a 10-week season. Pickup locations will be at three county park locations – James Is- land, Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands, and North Charles- ton Wannamaker County Parks.
To sign up visitwww.stonofarmmarket.com/befitcsa.html or CharlestonCountyParks.com/Be-Fit-CSA.
13 In the News
Yoga and Brews Come Together in West Ashley Brewsday event featuring beer, live music, and yoga Old Towne Creek County Park April 8, 2016, From Staff Reports
The Charleston County Parks & Recreation Commission invites local residents to come by Old Towne Creek County Park in West Ashley after work for a couple of cold ones at Brewsday on select Tuesdays this spring.
Brewsday kicks off Tuesday, April 12. Tickets are $15 at the gate (or $12 in advance for residents of Charleston County) and include admission, beer from local brewery Tradesman Brewing Co., live music, and yoga.
Beth Cosi, founder of Bendy Brewski Yoga, will present a free all-levels yoga class from 6-6:45 p.m., allowing partici- pants to get physically and mentally centered then kick back with friends and a beer to get socially centered.
Live music will be performed during the April 12 event by Rene Russell and food will be by the Charleston Choo food truck. The event runs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on April 12, 26 & May 10. is a beautiful property in West Ashley that is not yet open Brewsday was inspired by the popular Wine Down to the public daily. Wednesday event, which returns Wednesdays this spring For more information and either at Old Towne Creek County Park, on April 6, 20, and May 4. Brewsday and Wine Down Wednesday visit 795-4386 or Located on Old Towne Road, Old Towne Creek County Park visit www.charlestoncountyparks.com.
April 4, 2016
26th Annual Charleston Outdoor Festival, Friday, April 15th—17th, James Island County Park
Come try out equipment, compete in tournaments and other hands-on activities, and learn everything from the basics to expert skills in sports such as mountain biking, slack lining, archery, climbing, disc golf, canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Admission $2 per person with a “TRY IT” pass to try out activities for $10. for a full event schedule, visit www.ccprc.com.
14 In the News
Weekend Roundup: A Southern (G)round Up Events for the weekend of April 15-17 By Madison Kois
Saturday
James Island County Park wants you to get outside and try a few new things this weekend and they have the perfect venue, the Charleston Outdoor Festival. It features everything from a vendor village to a 'Try it' zone, Greenland games, live music, disc golf tourney, sea kayak symposium, and more. It's three days and the gate fee is cheap so bring the whole fam and walk away with a new hobby.
If you thought sea-kayaking the marsh or SUPing on Folly was impressive, think again. The Polynesian kayak crews of Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia will be at the Charles- ton Outdoor Festival to discuss their around the world trek and their mission to grow a movement toward global sustainability. Check them out at the festival at James Island County Park any of the three days.
15 In the News
RiverDogs Bring High Excitement into Second Homestand against Augusta, April 21-24 April 20, 2016 12:34pm I by Charleston RiverDogs Media Relations
CHARLESTON, SC – The Charleston RiverDogs are off to a the “Holy City” name- hot start in their 2016 season, winning 10 of their first 13 sake across their pin- games, which included three walk off victories and came striped tops with a new from behind in eight of the nine. The RiverDogs look to re- HC emblem on the caps. turn to Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park with high excitement as they In association with host the Augusta GreenJackets. Charleston will have anoth- Charleston County Parks and Recreation and Y102.5, every er fun-filled weekend as the RiverDogs help end the work Sunday is a Kids Club Sunday where fans enjoy free parking week with Thirsty Thursday, Friday night fireworks, Satur- and Lowcountry youth eat free, enjoy pregame catch on the day’s T-shirt extravaganza and a beachy feelin’ on Sunday. field and run the bases postgame presented by CPI Security. It’s also Island Night where the Beech Hill Jugglers will be The RiverDogs host the Augusta GreenJackets on Thursday, performing. April 21 at 7:05pm to open a four- game series. Charleston has played one series against Augusta, in which they won Ticket information for this homestand and any of the re- three out of four on the road. maining home games can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at Sunday, April 24, 5:05pm: Holy City Sunday / Kids Club/ www.riverdogs.com. Those that can’t make it out the park Islands Night: The RiverDogs embrace Charleston’s “Holy can follow every pitch of the RiverDogs season on WTMA City” moniker for the second of 10 Sunday games. 1250 AM and streaming online at riverdogs.com. The club will wear specialty uniforms that proudly display
16 Customer Quotes
“Variety of activities, indoor and outdoor. Staff are friendly and helpful (I recognize from past camps). My daughters enjoy greatly.” — Parent, Explorers Camp at James Island Spring Break Camp
“I have been in the Challenge Course industry for 23 years. This has been one of the best trainings that I have attended.” — Custom Training Participant, L2 Facilitator Training
“Everyone learned a little about everyone else and had to trust others. Nice to get to know different people outside work envi- ronment.” — MUSC Custom Challenge Course Participant
“I just want to let you both know what an extraordinary experience my husband and I had when we visited this plantation. We had both visited other plantations in the Charleston area. We had heard many descriptions of plantation owners, beautiful furniture, and seen lovely gardens but never before had we been told anything about the lives of slaves living in Charleston. I can’t tell you how impressed I was by the man, Shawn Halifax, who led our group on the tour. He had re- searched everything about the lives of the slaves as well as the lives of the African Americans in the post-Civil War era. I took this infor- mation back to Michigan with me and I was invited to make a brief presentation to a working group of the Michigan State Museum where I am currently working on a project to enlarge the collection of Michigan’s African Americans. My group was just as im- pressed as I was by your efforts to include African Americans in the history of Charleston as well as the quality of the staff who are teaching this history to the public.” — McLeod Plantation Visitor
“Knowledge of staff, scenic beauty, photo opportunities.” — Sunrise Photography Participant
“It is such a joy to work with the other Move IT! Trainers. Both pro- fessional and adaptable, they are always able to juggle multi-levels of fitness and adjust their classes accordingly.” — Move IT! Trainer Testimonial
17 Events, Parks, and Programs
This year’s Lowcountry Cajun Festival was the most successful Cajun Festival in CCPRC history. Although more people have attended in the past (7765 in 2016), the festival brought in nearly $270,000 on April 3, 2016. The net revenue for the agency will be well over $100,000. James Island County Park was wet due to a rainy fall and winter, but the festival visitors enjoyed a near perfect spring day. The Lowcountry Cajun Festi- val’s 25th anniversary featured music from Charleston (Shrimp City Slim and Sidewalk Zydeco) as well as mu- sic from Duson, Louisiana (Terry and The Zydeco Bad Boys)! The Cajun Festival continues to be one of the Lowcountry’s finest and most popular events.
The front entrance of IOP received an upgrade in April.
18 Events, Parks, and Programs
A concrete wash rack has been poured between Barn 1 & 2 at Mullet Hall Equestrian Center. It has been graded to drain into the catch basin at the left end of the wash rack. The catch basin ties into an underground drainage pipe that emp- ties into the retention pond.
A spring interpretive program was held at McLeod Plantation in April. This musical concert was provided by the local group, The Lowcountry Voices.
19 Events, Parks, and Programs
A main goal of the South Carolina Master Naturalist program is to develop volun- teer citizen scientists, conservationists, and educators who can positively impact natural resources. Over 250 Master Naturalists have now been certified through Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission’s program since it began in the spring of 2008. One of the clear benefits of CCPRC’s involvement with Master Naturalist is that the program produces highly committed volunteers for the area, some of whom have a positive impact on the county parks through their volunteer projects.
On Thursday, April 21st, 2016, a few Charleston Master Naturalists spent their day assisting staff from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Audubon South Carolina with a shorebird nest protection project. The work took place at both Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve and Folly Beach County Park on Folly Island. The tasks at hand were to install signs and protective string-line barriers in front of a known shorebird nesting habitat. With a few basic supplies and tools, they worked as a team to at- tach signs to posts, set them at the edge of the dune vegetation, connect them with string, and then place flags at inter- vals along the entire boundary. After a few hours, they had installed over 100 signs and created a protective, visual boundary.
“Although we encountered only a handful of visitors on that stretch of beach, we explained to several beach-goers why we were trying to protect the upper dune area from disturbance. It was rewarding to hear the positive responses from the public and to know that, by spreading awareness, we were helping to reinforce our efforts,” stated Charleston Master Naturalist volunteer, Linda Rowe. She went on to explain, “Participating in this project taught me how to be more envi- ronmentally responsible when visiting the beach, allowed me to take action and contribute to an important shorebird conservation effort, and gave me the knowledge to educate others. We were also rewarded for our efforts by seeing pairs of Wilson’s plovers, terns, oystercatchers, and willets in the protection zone. I look forward to my next opportunity to assist with local conservation work!”
To further strengthen partnerships between agencies and outreach to volunteers, SC Audubon with be hosting a Shore- bird Steward Training Saturday, April 30th, 2016 at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Hopefully, more Master Naturalists eager to learn how to help protect nesting shorebirds on our area beaches and county parks will be in attendance!
20 Events, Parks, and Programs
Physician Referred 2nd Quarter Assessments
It’s the end of April, and that means it’s time for 2nd quarter assessments! Participants have been working hard since their last tests in January and are ready to show off their improvements. We are excited to see the results! Aquatic Fitness
As the temperatures climb, we are HIITing the Water with more options this summer. The popularity of our water programs continues not only for those requiring low impact, but also for those looking to amplify their performance gains.
DOD Employer Award
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) selected CCPRC to receive an “Above and Beyond Award” during the annual appreciation luncheon. This award is limited to super- visors of military members who have already received the Patriot Award by ESGR and who go the extra mile to accom- modate employees. Tyler Cross is Move IT! Fitness and Well- ness Coordinator for CCPRC. He is preparing for active duty deployment as an Air Transportation Apprentice with the Air Force Reserves November 2016- May 2017, and although we will miss his contributions to our programming during that time, we are proud of his service and honored to be able to support Tyler, his family and the country during his absence.
Allison Foster accepting the award on behalf of CCPRC, with Senior Airman Tyler Cross.
21 Events, Parks, and Programs
Wine Down Wednesday returns to Old Towne Creek County Park! Throughout April and into early May, the popular series will be held each Wednesday.
New for 2016, Brewsday Tuesday will now follow the format of Wine Down Wednesday. Patrons will pay one fee ($12 ad- vance/$15 gate) to enter the Brewsday event. Once inside, they are free to enjoy yoga and local beer from 5:30pm- 7:30pm. Yes, you are reading YOGA correctly! Beth Cosi with Bendy Brewski Yoga presents an all-levels yoga class from 6pm-6:45pm. Brewsday also features beer from local brewery Tradesmen Brewing Company and one local food truck.
Plantasia at Old Towne
On April 15th and 16th the Charleston Horticulture Society hosted Plantasia at Old Towne Creek County Park for the first time. Previously held ad Wragg Square in downtown Charleston, Plantasia is one of the most sought after and anticipated events of its kind in the Southeast. Featuring unique garden vendors offering the latest in garden trends and local farmers with fresh produce, this year’s event also featured live demonstrations and the popular Plantasia Eve Party on Friday April 15th.
This event was great exposure for PRC, bringing many new faces to Old Towne Creek County Park. The estimated at- tendance for the weekend was well over 1,000 visitors.
This is just the first of many new events we hope to bring to the park that compliment this beautiful property.
22 Events, Parks, and Programs
On Thursday, April 14, Ali Akhyari and Ande Oliver attended the James Island Middle School Awards Day ceremony to recog- nize eight students from the 7th grade class who participated in our Outdoor Club. The club members met on Mondays for eight weeks and were introduced to a variety of activities. These activities included a high and low ropes team building (which also included a zipline), disc golf, archery, trail biking, stand up paddleboarding, and rock climbing. They learned about the equipment, skills, and safety concepts for every activity in addition to having fun!
We wanted to pass on one of the comments we heard during the first meeting:
“I love doing things outside but I can’t because I am not allowed to go outside until my parents get home and by that time it is too late.” – Club member participant
“This has really made an impact on us, as youth leaders, and makes us push toward continuing work with our area schools.” – Ande Oliver, staff comment
The foot bridge to the island at Laurel Hill has been rebuilt. Before After
23 Community Outreach & Partnerships
Berkeley County Health Fair — CCPRC participated at the fair on April 13 to promote the agency’s programs, festivals and to sell passes.
MUSC— CCPRC participated at MUSC Earth Day on April 13 and on April 27 & 28 in the Children’s Hospital, to promote the agency’s programs, festivals and to sell passes.
SK8 Media Day— On April 26, CCPRC met at the skate park with Channels 2, 4 and 5, and the James Island Messenger to present updates and answer questions.
Stats-Parks & Program Services
Total Calls In: 9,013
Average Talk Time: 3.07
Average Wait Time: 2.31
Online: $ 98,425
Front Desk: $ 347,904
Total Revenue: $ 446,329
24 Group Sales & Sponsorship
Group Sales Through Corporate Online Pass Sales and satellite sales opportunities, companies can purchase discounted Gold Passes and waterpark tickets. In April, pass sales generated $36,731.
Corporate Online Pass Sales: $19,805
216 Gold Passes = $13,384 62 Super Splash Passes = $4,936 OVERALL PASS SALES REVENUE 23 Basic Splash Passes = $1,485 $90,000.00 $80,000.00 Satellite Sales: $16,926 $70,000.00 $60,000.00 144 Gold Passes = $8,685 $50,000.00 $40,000.00 49 Super Splash Passes = $3,724 $30,000.00 $20,000.00 45 Basic = $2,295 $10,000.00 $- Waterpark tickets = $2,222 2014 YTD 2015 YTD 2016 YTD
Sponsorship During the month of April, several companies sponsored various special events, generating $7,300 in cash and $10,000 in trade.
OVERALL SPONSORHSIP REVENUE $16,000.00 $14,000.00 $12,000.00 $10,000.00 $8,000.00 $6,000.00 $4,000.00 $2,000.00 $- 2014 YTD 2015 YTD 2016 YTD
25 DIGITAL MARKETING SUMMARY April 2016 WEBSITE ANALYTICS Website Visits: 109,074 Page views: 338,811 vs. April 2015: 90,765 vs. April 2015: 298,165
TOP 10 PAGES 1. Campground & Cottages 6. Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark
2. James Island County Park 7. McLeod Plantation Historic Site
3. Charleston Outdoor Fest 8. Parks & Facilities
4. Lowcountry Cajun Festival 9. Wannamaker County Park
5. Park Pass Memberships 10. Splash Zone Waterpark
Top Visitor Locations Device Type
1. Charleston 1. Desktop, 45%
2. Charlotte, NC 2. Smartphone, 40.4%
3. Mount Pleasant, SC 3. Tablet, 10.1%
4. Summerville, SC 4. Unknown, 2.4%
5. Goose Creek, SC 5. Phablet, 2%
SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING MOST ENGAGING FACEBOOK POST Facebook Skate Park Construction Photos Page Likes: 37,554 people Reach: EMAIL MARKETING Reach: 91,604 people 15,127
Engagement: 39.6% Open Rate
Twitter 551 21.89% Click-Through Rate
Followers: 5,218 Post Clicks:
impressions: 40,100 2,294 Instagram
Followers: 2,005
26 Stats-Attendance **IncludesWaterpark, and attendanceHFOL, C&C waterpark *Includes attendance. 1415 vs 1516 vs 1415 Attendance Occupancy Occupancy Occupancy Attendance Attendance YTD 1314 YTD YTD 1516 YTD 1516 YTD 1415 YTD 1516 YTD 1415 YTD 1415 YTD 1314 YTD 1516 1415YTD 1314YTD Vehicles Vehicles 1415vs Vehicles 1516 % % Campsites 146,574 145,238 140,139 19,864 22,013 20,676 -2,149 1,336 -10% BWP PICP* 75% 74% 71% 1% 695,409 686,133 645,037 Cottages 20,800 19,083 14,832 1,717 9,276 JICP** FBCP 58% 55% 54% 9% 1% 326,671 320,984 299,875 41,983 41,752 37,202 Marina 5,687 WCP* 99% 97% 97% 231 IOP 1% 2% 82,446 82,848 72,710 16,622 14,813 12,554 TOTAL Bulow 1,809 -402 34% 35% 36% 12% CAW 0% YTD Attendance 1415 vs. YTD Attendance1516 1415 26,774 24,148 21,508 2,626 MHEC 11% 257,825 243,011 232,254 14,814 FB Pier FB 6% 159,886 186,855 167,652 -26,970 MP Pier MP -14% -11,638 56,569 68,207 67,601 -17% BWP Attendance Attendance Attendance YTD 1516 1516 YTD YTD 1415 YTD1415 YTD1314 1415 vs vs 1415 47,987 49,567 33,431 -1,580 1516 FBCP -3% % 113,064 114,402 27,475 25,842 24,925 99,878 -1,338 1,633 -1% IOP 6% SI 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 1,600,000 1,800,000 2,000,000 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 Attendance 0 54,060 46,589 48,659 7,471 3,170 3,759 3,826 Bulow -16% -589 16% SZ Attendance 1,726,256 YTD 1314 YTD LaurelHill 103,857 97,347 92,641 6,510 2,378 6,438 4,060 WW 59% 945 7% Attendance 1,864,702 YTD 1415 YTD Old Towne Old 201,006 169,778 166,225 31,228 TOTAL 1,294 3,850 2,556 1,556 18% 51% Attendance 1,932,288 YTD 1516 YTD 19,865 20,834 McLeod 2050% 969 0 50,616 50,616 LIHP --- 0 0 1,932,288 1,864,702 1,726,256 67,587 TOTAL 4%
27 Stats-Attendance 3 2 1 Bulow is closed in closed January is Bulow for maintenance waterpark,and attendance.Includes HFOL, C&C Includes waterpark attendance. waterpark attendance. Includes 2015 vs 2016 2015 vs 2016 Attendance Occupancy Attendance Attendance Occupancy Occupancy April 2016 April 2015 April 2014 April 2016 April 2016 April 2015 April 2014 April 2015 April 2014 Variance Vehicles Vehicles Vehicles % % Campsites 16,420 16,086 15,801 3,224 3,404 3,516 PICP BWP -180 94% 88% 93% -5% 334 2% 1 Cottages 51,557 50,176 50,596 3,396 2,956 1,804 1,381 FBCP JICP 15% 70% 69% 69% 440 3% 2 Marina 31,358 31,329 31,439 WCP 6,835 7,167 6,146 -332 98% 99% 96% -5% IOP 0% 29 1 13,455 13,527 11,466 TOTAL Bulow 2,075 2,619 1,996 -21% CAW -544 73% 27% 60% -1% -72 MHEC 440 309 296 4% 13 FB PIER FB 35,046 27,332 34,469 7,714 28% FacilityAttendance April 2016 vsApril 2015 MP Pier MP 20,055 23,298 20,162 -3,243 -14% 11,380 11,814 -2,961 8,419 -26% BWP 7,236 7,696 4,430 FBCP -460 -6% 2015 vs 2016 vs 2015 Attendance Attendance Attendance April 2016 April 2015 April 2014 18,296 19,629 15,753 -1,333 -7% IOP % Bulow 59% 220 590 370 590 --- SI 0 0 0 0 Attendance 3 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 50,000 0 Laurel Hill Laurel -2% 543 552 --- SZ 187,778 -9 0 0 0 0 0 dance Atten 2014 April Old Towne Old 192,282 dance Atten 2015 April Attendance 498% 2,740 3,290 WW 550 288 --- 0 0 0 0 205,741 dance Atten 2016 April McLeod TOTAL 199% 1,928 2,897 969 --- 0 0 0 0 0 7,650 7,650 LIHP --- 0 0 205,741 192,282 187,778 13,459 TOTAL 7% Rain: 2.61" Rain: 77.3 Temp: 3.67" Rain: 77.8 Temp: 5.98" Rain: 79.3 Temp:
28 Capital Projects Update
April weather was excellent for pouring concrete and progress on the skate elements con nues to move forward rapidly. The street course is well underway and the skatepark team has worked well together. The only remaining permit is the building permit and it is expected by mid May.
A media day was held on April 26 in response to the high level of interest. It was well a ended Media day with and Tim Payne, the owner of Team Pain, was in town and par cipated. He had some nice Tom O’Rourke & words to say about our park. Tim Payne (Team Pain)
Schroder Community Center Recrea onal Improvements Update
Progress is being made on this project. The new marquee sign has been installed. Landscaping the planter is underway. The ite furnishings are almost all assembled. Most of this project has been completed in‐house, with the excellent coopera ve assistance from Parks District 3’s Chris ne Volousky, Josh Blackstone, and his crew, Planning’s Jeff Vereen, Capital Project’s Pa y Newshutz, and Recrea on’s Joel WarrenNew andConcrete Brian Weir Todd. This project will be complete before summer camps begin next month.
The Capital Design Staff provides assistance with the planning of some projects and facilitates the Design Review Process. The following are projects that were reviewed and have received approval since the previous Commission Mee ng: April 12—May 10, 2016 LH — Site Benches LH — Overlook Stair Replacement 29 1 Capital Projects Update cont’d
The replacement of the Slide Tower is complete, in me for the reopening of the waterpark. With new fiberglass stair stringers, joists, gra ng, and handrails, this strong, safe, state‐of‐the‐art structure should stay looking great and be virtually maintenance‐free for many years to come.
The final comple on walk‐thru for the Splash Island pools renova on project by Hot Springs Pools, LLC., our contractor, was conducted April 28. Punch list items were completed and the pool is ready for the upcoming waterpark season.
New DiamondBrite pool surface, Ɵle, New DiamondBrite pool surface, Ɵle OƩer slide landing pad and Funbrellas and turtle slide landing pad in the in the main pool. acƟvity pool.
Based on the findings of a commissioned under‐ and above‐water inspec on, we are looking to have BluTide Marine Construc on perform immediate repairs to the dock, including four new “sister piles,” handrail, and various structural components.
A secƟon of bulkhead prior to repair.
30 2 Capital Projects Update cont’d
Cape Romain Contractors Inc., completed the project to replace all 12 of the breakwater cables on May 5. The Cooper
River Marina breakwater should be good for the next five years with all new epoxy coated cables now in place.
Cape Romain Contractors replaced over 5,000 feet of breakwater cables, installed new barrel chucks, hydraulically applied the required cable tension, and finally enclosed the cable ends with waterƟght casings. Capital Grants LWCF grant Le er of Intent for Folly Beach County Park Improvements has been accepted and the mandatory grant workshop was a ended on March 23, but it was decided to not apply for grant un l funding is available for the match; Solenoid Control Valves $7,594.44 PARD grant applica on (2016) is deferred and will be combined with the 2017 PARD grant; $100,000 Recrea onal Trails Program grant applica on for the Palme o Islands Boardwalk Replacement Project has been submi ed;
$100,000 Recrea onal Trails Program grant applica on for the Stono River Trailhead and Access Project is deferred un l October of 2016; $14,727.44 PARD grant applica on (2015) for the Schroder Community Center Recrea onal Improvements has been approved and the project is underway;
$172,994 grant applica on from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Sport Fish Restora on Funds for the W.O. Thomas Jr. Boat Landing Parking Lot Improvements is being applied for on our behalf by the SC Department of Natural Resources.;
$57,664 from the South Carolina and Charleston County Water Recrea on Funds for W.O, Thomas Jr. Boat Landing Parking Lot Improvements has been approved by the Charleston County Legisla ve Delega on;
$100,000 SC Shore Based Saltwater Fishing Access grant is again available for CCPRC to submit a proposal. Walk‐Throughs of All Parks and Facili es
During the month of May, the Capital Projects group is conduc ng our annual park facility walk‐throughs. The purpose is to view FRRP (Facility Repair and Replacement) funded projects affec ng each facility in FY 2016‐2017. The group will also inspect all manmade facili es and infrastructure in each park. 31 3 HUMAN RESOURCES UPDATE
Diversity Mission Statement: The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission will provide high quality park facilities, programs, and services to the ever-changing community we serve by recruiting, training, and retaining a qualified and diverse staff.
Current Staff Statistics:
April 2016 EEO Information
FULL TIME PART TIME TOTAL OF ALL EMPLOYEES EMPLOYEES EMPLOYEES
Number of Employees 180 764 944 White 149 620 82% Hispanic 5 9 1%
African American 19 97 12% Asian 1 4 1% Indian 1 5 1% Two or more Races 5 29 3% Male 103 325 45% Female 77 439 55%
32 HUMAN RESOURCES UPDATE
Volunteer Coordinator Report April 2016
Activity Category Hours Volunteers BREWSDAY TUESDAY 4 2 COMMUNITY REC YOUTH SPORTS 10 2 COOPER RIVER BRIDGE RUN 132 29 CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY 8 1 CLERICAL OFFICE WORK 12 2 LOWCOUNTY CAJUN FESTIVAL 414 61 MCCLEOD PLANTATION 8 1 MULLET HALL TRAIL RUN 42 19 OUTDOOR FESTIVAL 811 75 PADDLESPORTS AND OUTDOOR CLUB 5 1 SHAGGIN ON THE COOPER 21 5 UNCATEGORIZED ACTIVITY 11 2 WALK AND RESTORE 3 1 WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY 8 3 Total Hours 1489 Previous Report Year to Date Hours 13261 Fiscal Year to Date Volunteer Hours 14750
The Value of Volunteer Hours:
The equivalent of one full time employee is 162.5 hours per month. The monthly cost with salary and benefits for a specialty level 207 full time employee is $3,943 per month.
1489 volunteer hours/ 162.5= 9.16 full time employees Monthly savings = 3943 x 9.16 = $ 36,117.99
33 Commission Update May 2016 Planning Division Project Update Oyster Reef Restoration at Awendaw Park Site
Planning and Parks staff collaborated with SCDNR’s South Carolina Oyster Restoration and Enhancement (SCORE) Program recently (May 5) to take steps toward re-establishing an oyster reef at CCPRC’s Awendaw (Doar Rd.) future park property. Oysters reefs form a natural breakwater, and each mature oyster can filter about 50 gallons of water per day. The 61-acre property has nearly 1,000 feet of frontage on the Intracoastal Waterway, which is currently lacking in oyster habitat.
Students from the Cape Romain Environmental Education Charter School (CREECS) were on-hand to pass pre-filled bags of local oyster shells to SCDNR SCORE staff for proper placement on the shoreline.
Statement
SITE
Oyster restoration site on Intracoastal Waterway.
Statement of Purpose: Through careful planning and analysis, the Planning Division strives to balance meaningful public access with the protection natural and cultural resources. Thoughtful park planning ensures that we continue to improve the quality of life for future generations, in keeping with the agency’s mission. 34 Commission Update Page 2
CREECS students getting an introduction to oyster restoration by SCDNR SCORE staff.
CREECS students at work passing pre-filled oyster bags to SCDNR SCORE staff for placement. The next phase will include planting marsh grass the students grew in the school greenhouse. 35