Commission Update ______

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COMMISSIONERS:

Teddy Manos, Chair

Collin Bruner, Vice Chair

Eduardo Curry, Secretary-Treasurer

Dale Aren

Lisa King

Mattese Lecque

Brad Taggart

David Bennett, Executive Director

Commission Update ______

July 15, 2020

Important Dates

Commission Regular Meeting – Monday, July 20, 2020 - CCPRC Headquarters at 5:30 pm & online at www.charlestoncountyparks.com

Commission Meeting Agenda Highlights

Old Business:

None

New Business:

COVID19 Update:

The current progress on the agency’s response to COVID19 will be presented.

Planning and Capital Projects Update:

An overall update on the Planning and Capital Projects as well as the approved 5-Year Capital Improvements Plan Projects will be presented.

Action Items:

Besides the meeting minutes, two items will require Commission action on Monday evening (supplemental information attached).

861 Riverland Drive  Charleston, South Carolina 29412  (843) 762-2172  FAX (843) 762-2683 1 CHARLESTON COUNTY PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING 861 RIVERLAND DRIVE, CHARLESTON, SC, 29412 ONLINE AT WWW.CHARLESTONCOUNTYPARKS.COM MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020

AGENDA I.Call To Order And Welcome Manos

A. Introduction of Guests and Notification to Media

II. Public Comments & Presentations Manos

III. Approval of Minutes Manos

A. (ACTION) Approval of June 15, 2020 Regular Commission Meeting Minutes

IV. Old Business

A. None

V. New Business

A. COVID 19 Park & Recreation Update Macchia/Elliott/Hutton B. Planning and Capital Projects Report Bowie a. (INFO) Change Directive Wannamaker County Park Dog Park C. Financial Report McManus a. (ACTION) Folly Beach Groin Funds – Restriction Approval b. (ACTION) Consultant Services for Natural Resource Management, 2020-025 – Contract Award

VI. Next Meeting

A. Regular Commission Meeting, Monday, August 17, 2020, 5:30pm at CCPRC Headquarters, Charleston, SC

2 UNAPPROVED MINUTES CHARLESTON COUNTY PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING VIRTUALLY VIA CHARLESTONCOUNTYPARKS.COM 861 RIVERLAND DRIVE, CHARLESTON, SC, 29412 MONDAY, JUNE 15, 2020

Commission Members Present: Mr. Teddy Manos, Ms. Mattese Lecque, Mr. Eduardo Curry, Ms. Dale Aren (via teleconference), Ms. Lisa King (via teleconference), and Mr. Collin Bruner (via teleconference)

Commission Members Absent: Mr. Brad Taggart

Staff Present: Mr. David Bennett, Mr. Kevin Bowie, Mr. Charlie McManus, Mr. Phil Macchia, Ms. Gina Ellis- Strother, Mr. Greg Elliott (via teleconference), Ms. Jan Coulter (via teleconference), Ms. Patty Newshutz (via teleconference), Ms. Renee Dickinson (via teleconference), Mr. Steve Hutton (via teleconference), Mr. Tommy Hale (via teleconference), Mr. Matthew Rosebrock (via teleconference), Ms. Marcie Chiappone, Ms. Melissa Muse, and Ms. Lisa Knisley-White.

Legal Counsel Present: Mr. Dwayne Green

Guests Present: None

I. Call to Order and Welcome

A. Introduction of Guests and Notification to Media

The Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission met on Monday, June 15, 2020 at the CCPRC Headquarters, Charleston, SC and virtually via www.charlestoncountyparks.com. Mr. Manos, Commission Chair, called the meeting to order and welcomed those in attendance. Mr. Manos informed those present that notification of the meeting was sent to the local news media and others requesting notification.

II. Public Comments and Presentations

A. None

III. Approval of Minutes

A. (ACTION) Approval of minutes of May 18, 2020 Regular Commission Meeting

Motion to approve the minutes of the May 18, 2020 Regular Commission Meeting was made by Ms. Lecque, seconded by Mr. Curry, and approved by the Commission. (#062-1920)

IV. Old Business

A. Executive Session: Contractual Matters

Motion to enter into Executive Session to discuss a contractual matter was made by Mr. Curry, seconded by Ms. Lecque, and approved by the Commission. (#063-1920)

Upon coming out of Executive Session, the Chair stated that contractual matters were discussed, and no action was taken.

3 Regular Commission Meeting June 15, 2020 Page 2 of 4

B. (ACTION) Baker Ground Lease Agreement

Motion to terminate the lease with The United States Performance Center for use of the Baker site due to its failure to submit a satisfactory proposal which complied with the Commission’s RFP for the site was made by Mr. Curry, seconded by Ms. Lecque, and approved by the Commission. (#064-1920)

V. New Business

A. COVID 19 Re-Opening Plan Update

Mr. Macchia reviewed the re-opening plans as follows. Summer camps are being offered in a limited capacity with a reduction in attendees. The agency is working with Charleston County School District (CCSD) and is hoping to be granted access to CCSD facilities in July. Recreation events are scheduled such as yoga, Wine Down, and the Sprint Triathlon Series with social distancing guidelines and with a reduction in attendees. All parks and playgrounds are entirely open, including all three waterparks which opened on June 15. Beginning in July, shelter rentals will become available. He noted that there has been positive feedback from the public complimenting the staff on doing a great job. He commended staff for a job well done in training and carrying out the re-opening plan.

Mr. Bowie noted that the administrative offices are open with staff adhering to alternating schedules. There is a cleaning schedule and supplies in place as well as increased signage and rules for using fleet vehicles. Staff continue to utilize Microsoft Teams to have virtual meetings. He stated that he is proud of the staff and the progress that has been accomplished.

Mr. Curry thanked Mr. Bennett and staff for carefully re-opening correctly and safely which showed the public that we have their health and best interest in mind.

B. Planning and Capital Projects Report

Mr. Bowie presented an update on the following Commission approved Capital Projects:

• Currently Publicized RFPs: o Consultant Services for Natural Resource Management: Forestry and Wildlife

• Ongoing Capital Projects: o Beachwalker Park: ▪ New boardwalk is now open. o Sol Legare Boat Landing: ▪ Now open. o Wannamaker County Park: ▪ Dog Park will open soon. o James Island County Park Fishing Dock: ▪ Closed to the public as of June 15 in order to remove the old dock and begin construction of the new dock that will feature concrete piles, composite decking, two fishing stations and a new canoe/kayak launch site.

• Current Capital Project Commission Request:

4 Regular Commission Meeting June 15, 2020 Page 3 of 4

o Mr. Bowie reviewed the Old Towne Creek County Park Recreation Trail Grant acceptance request. o Mr. Bowie reviewed the Newkirk Environmental change order request for wetland permitting services at Bulow County Park. He stated that the additional $40,000 will increase the contract total to $107,000. o Mr. Bowie presented the Lowcounty Land Trust (LLT) construction time extension request. He stated that LLT exercised their option to purchase 4 acres of Old Towne Creek County Park in January 2017. The request is for an additional 2 years for construction to begin on their building. He clarified that LLT will need to begin construction by 2024 if the Commission agrees to the extension.

C. Financial Report

Mr. McManus presented and reviewed the checks over $7500 and financial reports for the month of April, and noted that the agency funds are currently in the positive. However, with the waterparks opening later in the season than usual, the reduction in capacity for both waterparks and summer camps, along with the additional cost of cleaning supplies, these factors will soon impact our financial status and we anticipate a loss in revenue. He noted that we are taking proactive measures to ensure financial stability for the future. There were no further questions from the Commission.

Mr. Bennett noted that we understand our revenue will be less than expected due to the pandemic. Staff will evaluate hiring for open positions as well as pausing on COLA salary increases through December 31, 2020. Training will be online only and no travel will be approved at this time. The agency will reduce capital spending on large purchases such as vehicles, large equipment, furniture, etc.

a. (ACTION) Lowcountry Land Trust – Request

Motion to amend the current agreement with Ashem, LLC to allow 2 additional years for construction of their building was made by Ms. Lecque, seconded by Mr. Curry, and approved by the Commission. (#065-1920)

Motion to amend the previous motion to clarify amending the current agreement with Ashem, LLC to allow 2 additional years for building construction to begin was made by Mr. Manos, seconded by Mr. Curry, and approved by the Commission. (#066-1920)

b. (ACTION) Newkirk Environmental, Inc. Bulow Wetland Permitting Services – Change Order Request Motion to approve a contract change order increase of $40,000 with Newkirk Environmental, Inc. for a total contract amount of $106,946.67 with funds coming from the approved CIP Budget was made by Ms. Lecque, seconded by Mr. Curry, and approved by the Commission. (#067-1920)

c. (ACTION) Recreational Trails Grant – Acceptance Request

Motion to accept the 2020 Recreational Trails Program Grant of $100,000 to provide funding for the Old Towne Creek County Park Trails Project was made by Mr. Curry, seconded by Ms. Lecque, and approved by the Commission. (#068-1920)

D. (ACTION) Charleston County Parks Foundation Board Member – Approval Request

5 Regular Commission Meeting June 15, 2020 Page 4 of 4

Motion to appoint Mr. John Warren to the Charleston County Parks Foundation Inc. Board was made by Ms. Lecque, seconded by Mr. Curry, and approved by the Commission. (#069-1920)

Mr. Bennett noted that Rusty Bull Brewing now has a surplus of the Sun’s Out Pale Ale beer that was specially created for the agency with a portion of proceeds going to the Charleston County Parks Foundation. These cans and kegs of beer were to be sold exclusively at CCPRC events, however with many events being cancelled there is now a need to distribute the beer to be sold elsewhere.

VIII. Next Meeting

Regular Commission Meeting, Monday, July 20, 2020, 5:30pm at CCPRC Headquarters, Charleston, SC

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:00 pm

Respectfully submitted,

Teddy Manos, Chair Shanté Ellis, Executive Administrative Manager

MEMORANDUM

TO: David Bennett FROM: Kevin Bowie DATE: 7/15/2020 RE: Change Directives for Wannamaker Dog Park Project

We have over the last 30 days issued several Change Directives to our construction contractor Envirosmart working on the Wannamaker Dog Park Project. The Change Directives were issued to keep the project moving towards achieving its Certificate of Occupancy and completion. Recently, we have seen delays associated with inspections and permitting related to COVID-19. Commission notification is required for following Change Directives:

1. Water utility requirement for the dog splash pad as agreed to by Charleston Water System and Vortex – $27,952.51 2. Location of the site transformer by Dominion Energy – $2,316.95 3. Data wiring, termination, and patch panel installation – $1,748.46

7 May 2020 Checks over $7,500

Date Check # Vendor Description Amount General Agency 5/7/2020 3035238 Maner Builder Supply WCP - Install 1700' Chainlink Fencing $ 26,998.00 5/7/2020 3035241 Peggs Recreation & Architectural Products, Inc JICP - Repair Parts & Installation of Playset $ 27,150.89 5/28/2020 3035365 Carolina Builders And Reconstruction Llc FBFP Repairs To Roof & Dormers,Termite Damage $ 17,505.00

Capital Improvement Projects 5/14/2020 133 R L Morrison & Sons Inc Sol Legare Boat Landing Construction $ 154,225.80 5/21/2020 134 IPW Construction Group, Llc Sk8 - Pay App #4 - Foundation $ 36,357.82 5/14/2020 261 The Design Minds Inc OTCCP Interpretive Master Plan $ 11,008.00 5/28/2020 263 Applied Technology & Management Inc CRM - Stabilization Consulting $ 19,832.75 5/28/2020 265 Envirosmart Inc WCP Dog Park Construction $ 294,686.56

8 Combined General Agency Operations May, 2020

Combined Revenues Prior YTD Actuals Year To date Actuals Current Year Budget % of Budget Support Services 16,838,163 17,729,950 16,847,419 105% Park Services 12,073,841 9,846,132 14,435,047 68% Recreation Services 1,249,895 1,030,308 1,761,350 58% Total Revenue 30,161,899 28,606,390 33,043,816 87%

Combined Expenses Support Services 7,198,916 9,066,258 9,832,683 92% Park Services 13,721,488 14,602,295 18,015,364 81% Recreation Services 3,543,267 3,579,783 4,573,356 78% Total Expenses 24,463,671 27,248,336 32,421,403 84% Net Operating Income 5,698,228 1,358,054 622,413

Transfers In 16,735 ‐ 62,500 0% Transfers Out 3,000,000 1,297,705 1,304,000 100%

Change in Fund Balance 2,714,963 60,349 (619,087)

9 Support Services May, 2020

Revenues Prior YTD Actuals Year To date Actuals Current Year Budget % of Budget Administration Millage 16,427,623 17,352,159 16,456,729 105% Administration‐ Other 410,540 377,791 390,690 97% Total Revenue 16,838,163 17,729,950 16,847,419 105%

Expenses Administration 995,523 2,266,090 1,588,693 143% Executive 1,229,620 1,183,047 1,390,118 85% Financial Services 728,195 698,815 894,907 78% Human Resources 527,511 650,811 708,825 92% Information Technology 1,344,677 1,690,801 2,043,193 83% Marketing 829,091 873,748 1,105,618 79% Park and Program Services 457,982 489,157 571,430 86% Planning and Development 792,738 913,285 1,080,898 84% Safety 293,580 300,502 449,001 67% Total Expenses 7,198,917 9,066,256 9,832,683 92% Net Operating Income 9,639,246 8,663,694 7,014,736

Transfers In 16,735 0 62,500 0% Transfers Out 3,000,000 1,297,705 1,304,000 100%

Change in Fund Balance 6,655,981 7,365,989 5,773,236

10 Park Services May, 2020

Revenues Prior YTD Actuals Year To date Actuals Current Year Budget % of Budget Administration 94,705 22,090 67,250 33% Caw Caw Interpretive Center 36,543 36,962 51,390 72% Cooper River Marina 819,586 853,152 938,304 91% Folly Beach County Park 392,484 248,636 482,220 52% Folly Beach Fishing Pier 1,059,401 829,188 959,133 86% Isle of Palms County Park 665,370 517,126 836,170 62% James Island County Park 4,864,599 4,153,712 5,525,500 75% Johns Island County Park 99,472 100,943 145,915 69% Kiawah Beachwalker Park 248,073 215,665 375,710 57% Lake House at Bulow 120,642 84,950 155,070 55% Laurel Hill Plantation 5,875 3,078 7,695 40% McLeod Plantation 359,293 312,424 462,240 68% Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park 544,389 387,494 708,160 55% Mount Pleasant Pier 268,442 189,028 323,515 58% North Charleston Wannamaker County Park 2,411,213 1,793,133 3,253,290 55% Old Towne Creek County Park 10,650 4,550 5,000 91% SK8 Charleston 73,104 84,494 126,655 67% Stono River Park 0 1,908 2,430 79% West County Aquatics Center 0 7,601 9,400 81% Total Revenue 12,073,841 9,846,134 14,435,047 68%

Expenses Administration 1,052,926 1,158,126 1,372,763 84% Caw Caw Interpretive Center 247,701 254,144 318,567 80% Cooper River Marina 446,591 807,055 577,030 140% Folly Beach County Park 351,070 343,787 451,981 76% Folly Beach Fishing Pier 911,027 895,035 1,041,768 86% Isle of Palms County Park 495,183 498,560 734,082 68% James Island County Park 3,889,174 4,066,480 4,936,967 82% Johns Island County Park 377,141 339,803 481,830 71% Kiawah Beachwalker Park 211,567 248,739 367,431 68% Lake House at Bulow 113,859 108,136 145,382 74% Laurel Hill Plantation 12,423 37,198 52,491 71% McLeod Plantation 241,406 207,802 309,341 67% Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park 892,856 958,481 1,289,433 74% Mount Pleasant Pier 389,939 406,169 491,401 83% North Charleston Wannamaker County Park 2,371,349 2,533,431 3,219,682 79% Old Towne Creek County Park 39,035 18,117 46,058 39% SK8 Charleston 206,340 187,947 275,396 68% Stono River Park 235 24,624 28,595 86% Undeveloped Properties & HQ Maintenance 1,458,660 1,441,992 1,727,673 83% West County Aquatics Center 13,007 66,670 147,493 45% Total Expenses 13,721,489 14,602,296 18,015,364 81% Change in Fund Balance (1,647,648) (4,756,162) (3,580,317)

11 Recreation Services May, 2020

Revenue Prior YTD Actuals Year To date Actuals Current Year Budget % of Budget Accessibility 4,923 3,202 5,935 54% Community Recreation 148,596 145,560 202,450 72% Interpretive 121,797 89,584 142,500 63% Outdoor 498,593 461,392 779,495 59% Special Events 322,505 185,170 408,150 45% Runs, Races & Fitness 153,481 145,400 222,820 65% Total Revenue 1,249,895 1,030,308 1,761,350 58%

Expenses Administration 509,521 525,891 642,161 82% Accessibility 21,533 18,952 31,798 60% Community Recreation 845,492 928,749 1,044,331 89% Interpretive 565,434 592,632 769,984 77% Outdoor 887,204 914,579 1,224,899 75% Special Events 410,603 340,006 506,721 67% Runs, Races & Fitness 303,480 258,976 353,462 73% Total Expenses 3,543,267 3,579,785 4,573,356 78% Change in Fund Balance (2,293,372) (2,549,477) (2,812,006)

12 MEMORANDUM

TO: David Bennett FROM: Charles McManus DATE: July 14, 2020 RE: Folly Beach Groin Funds

The Commission constructed a terminal groin at the Folly Beach County Park in 2013. The #2012-237-2IG permit from the Department of Health and Environmental Control’s Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management (OCRM) required the Commission to set aside $250,000 in an escrow account as a commitment to pay for mitigation, should any damage occur as a result of the groin. The first phase of the agreement has ended and in order to release the $250,000, the Commission must first submit “proof of a financially binding commitment acceptable to the OCRM counsel”, consisting of $100,000 to be set aside to meet any mitigation or beach renourishment costs for a period of 25 years, or the life of the groin, whichever is less. Upon written request from OCRM, the Commission will transfer and pay over to OCRM from the restricted funds, up to the entire amount due for any mitigation or beach renourishment work incurred. Per our discussions with OCRM, the Commission restricting $100,000 in our CIP Self-Funded bank account would satisfy their requirements to have BB&T release the funds to PRC.

Recommend the Commission restrict $100,000 in the CIP Self-Funded bank account to be used for mitigation or beach renourishment costs related to the Folly Beach Groin upon the written request of OCRM. In addition, the restriction will be shown on the Commission’s annual Audited Financial Statements until such time as the funds are released by OCRM.

Rev 2020 13

MEMORANDUM

TO: David Bennett FROM: Charles McManus DATE: July 14, 2020 RE: Consultant Services for Natural Resource Management, 2020-025; Contract Award

A Request for Proposal 2020-025 was issued and publicly advertised for Consultant Services for Natural Resource Management. Three firms responded. Sabine & Waters, Inc., provided the best technical proposal as evaluated by staff. Staff therefore recommends to the Commission to approve an award with a not to exceed budget of $60,000 for the first year, with an option of four (4) additional one (1) year terms based on satisfactory performance and available funding. The Project is budgeted to come from the approved General Agency Budget line #11350000- 82100-0000 Recommend approval to enter into a contract with Sabine & Waters, Inc. for Consultant Services for Natural Resource Management for $60,000 in the base year with the option to exercise four additional one-year options with funds coming from the approved General Agency Budget line.

Rev 2020 14 1

SC conservation groups challenge Long Savannah development, say it will worsen flooding By MICHELLE LIU Associated Press Jun 10, 2020

Conservation groups in South Carolina are challenging a 3,000- acre development project in Charleston over concerns that a loss of wetlands could worsen flooding in an already flood- prone area.

The Sierra Club and the South Carolina Wildlife Federation object that the Long Savannah community development in the West Ashley would affect more than 200 acres of wetlands that would otherwise store floodwaters during major storms.

The challenge comes amid a much wider debate over Charleston’s future as a coastal city as sea levels rise and floods become more frequent. The development is west of the A traffic circle is taking shape where the Glenn McConnell Parkway Church Creek drainage basin, where the city has bought out (at left) and Bees Ferry Road now meet. Long Savannah is planned for the wooded area at upper right where the parkway will be extended dozens of flooded homes since 2017 through Federal along what is now a utility line right of way (diagonal through upper Emergency Management Agency grants. right). Charleston County’s landfill is visible at upper left. File/Staff

The environmental groups filed a petition last week for the state board of the Department of Health and Environmental Control to overturn certifications for the project issued under Long Savannah is one of the largest developments in the city the federal Clean Water Act by agency staff. of Charleston’s history. Work on the project stalled following the deep 2008 recession. The city’s development agreement Long Savannah, a huge West Ashley development 13 years in allows Long Savannah to build up to 4,500 homes. the making, takes another step forward Developer Taylor Bush said the project will also include a 1,628 “During this day and time, we know better than to fill and -acre public park and an agreement that protects nearly 1,900 build in floodplain wetlands,” said Amy Armstrong, executive acres of freshwater wetlands within the property from future director of the S.C. Environmental Law Project, which is development. representing the groups. “Because of these commitments and the incorporated “These activities have led to people’s homes being repeatedly drainage improvements, the project provides a significant flooded and have exacerbated flooding by eliminating public benefit,” Bush said in an email. “DHEC recognized this important flood buffering wetland systems,” she added in her benefit as reflected in the issuance of its certifications.” statement.

SC conservation — continued

In addition to state certifications and federal permits from the Different types of wetlands help absorb water when it rains, Army Corps of Engineers, developers must also comply with and many of them have been lost to developments in the past municipal stormwater ordinances. two decades in West Ashley.

Matthew Fountain, Charleston’s director of stormwater Since 2001, new neighborhoods and buildings have paved over management, said developers should implement best more than 2,000 acres naturally equipped to absorb water, the management practices to mitigate any problems caused to equivalent of about 80 football fields per year, according to stormwater by building on wetlands. the West Ashley Master Plan.

About 12.3 percent of the project area lies within the Church The Post and Courier contributed to this report. Creek drainage basin.

to LWCF. Its resources come from oil and gas royalties, not Sound Off: June letters to the editor taxpayer pockets. Its impact is highly trackable in acres protected, parks built, cultural sites preserved and trails Jun 24, 2020 Updated Jun 30, 2020 opened to the public. It’s supported by both Democrats and It’s time to fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund Republicans, and our South Carolina delegation has led the effort in both chambers. A long-awaited victory for conservation, communities and South Carolina is nearly in our grasp. For more than 55 years, In South Carolina, LWCF has helped create, improve or open the Land and Water Conservation Fund has protected land, additional acres to public access at: Saluda Shoals Park, North improved county parks, preserved cultural sites and increased Augusta Riverfront Greenway, Guignard Park, Congaree public access across all 50 states. Like many federal programs, National Park and Fort Sumter National Monument. it faced budget cuts during the Great Recession. But the So, what’s the holdup? Busy legislative schedules, competing bipartisan program came back strong in 2019, when legislators priorities, and time. But the time is now: The Senate passed on both sides of the aisle voted to make it permanent. the Great American Outdoors Act on June 17, and a Now, one important task remains. LWCF is a dedicated fund, companion bill (HR 7092) will soon be up for a vote in the and a dedicated fund can only work if the funds in it are spent House. To our South Carolina representatives, let’s get this as intended. We need to fully fund LWCF with the money done. Pass the Great American Outdoors Act and send it to the collected for that purpose, instead of redirecting it to other president’s desk. projects. DALE THREATT-TAYLOR None of the usual objections to government programs apply Executive director, The Nature Conservancy in South Carolina

Environmental challenges reemerge for Charleston development once hailed as green By Chloe Johnson [email protected] Jun 29, 2020 Updated 2 hrs ago

to overflowing into homes and churches, as it has done multiple times in recent years’ storms.

Andrew Wunderley, of Charleston Waterkeeper, which is one of the protesting parties, said the request to fill or dig out that many acres of wetlands “stuck out like the north star on a clear night” from typical development proposals.

Countering that, developer Taylor Bush insists the project will actually help the problem in Church Creek, in part, because it’s intended to divert water away to the nearby Stono River.

“We’ve been trying to be as responsible as possible to change our plan to accommodate this new reality” that older develop- The Grand Oaks development is seen against a portion of land ments nearby have inadequate water retention, Bush said. that is part of the planned Long Savannah community in West Ashley on Thursday, June 18, 2020 New wetlands found By Lauren Petracca [email protected] In total, the Long Savannah project has development rights to 4,500 homes based on a 2015 agreement with the city of Long Savannah, a massive development initially seen as Charleston. The plan includes both commercial and residential strengthening conservation in the Charleston region, is being building, with its densest section along the expansion of Glenn challenged by environmental groups. McConnell Parkway.

Though it’s been in the works for 15 years, the more than In tandem, there are plans for an adjacent county park of 3,000-acre project is still in the relatively early stages of more than 1,600 acres, and a city park of more than 200 acres getting approval for disturbing sensitive wetlands. It includes where developers may add additional stormwater retention, multiple parcels at the undeveloped western edge of West Bush said. Ashley, and will include an expansion of Glenn McConnell Parkway. Long Savannah has sought permits to disturb wetlands along with an adjacent housing project — a new phase of the Village Earlier this month, a decision by state regulators to greenlight Green subdivision, which could on its own bring 1,500 new one permit for the project was challenged in two filings by homes. Both projects’ drainage designs will be subject to close multiple environmental groups. They contend the project review by the city of Charleston nearer to when they com- should make more accommodation for the upward of 200 mence construction. acres of wetlands being destroyed in the current design. But developers had to twice have a technical expert count They also point out the project’s proximity to flood-prone wetlands on the property because the first report was done neighborhoods near Church Creek, a narrow stream that too long ago to still be valid. The second time around, many winds through West Ashley’s suburban outskirts and is prone more wetlands were found.

Long Savannah — continued

controlling Charleston’s expansion were less laser-focused on flooding concerns.

Years ago, Long Savannah was championed by Coastal Con- servation League founder Dana Beach. He has since retired from that group.

In the years before Long Savannah was even planned, con- servationists pushed for several land protection deals in the swath of private land west of Bee’s Ferry Road, Beach said.

“This area was in tremendous, rapid potential transition,” Beach said.

He added that big pieces of land around that westward wave of development “needed to be stabilized on the edge” of where the city was growing.

Part of that stabilization was the urban growth boundary, a Bush argued that these newly identified areas are not the line drawn by county officials that attempted to control the bottomland swamp that a layman might picture, and called region’s sprawl. them “transitional.” City of Charleston Planning Director Jacob Lindsey said the Amy Armstrong of the South Carolina Environmental Law Pro- project was seen favorably by the city initially because be- ject said that’s a common defense raised by developers who cause it ensured a corridor of protected parkland would be plan to build on sensitive areas. Armstrong’s firm is repre- placed at the boundary. senting the Sierra Club and S.C. Wildlife Federation in a challenge separate from Waterkeeper’s. The theory, Lindsey said, was that “there would never be a call for the expansion of the urban growth boundary at that loca- She argued that, in the eyes of the law, it doesn’t matter what tion because the land had been protected.” type of wetland is at issue — they’re all afforded protection. New drainage rules “I think it really misses the point,” she said. “Whatever (the wetlands’) quality is, they’re absorbing rainwater. They’re ab- Long Savannah, like other projects nearby, was put on ice sorbing stormwater. That’s what they do.” when the Great Recession began in 2008. Now, more than a decade later, much of the conversation around development Conservation history in the Charleston region has become laser-focused on flooding. Environmental groups were on a tight timeline, just 15 days, to ask the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control Existing homes closer to Church Creek have flooded multiple to reconsider its decision. times, and Charleston has demolished dozens of them with federal grants so the damage doesn’t continue. A consultant But the challenges are a far cry from the time when the pro- determined that a leading cause of flooding in this area was fill ject was conceived, when environmentalists concerned with dirt, trucked in to raise house lots. The material leaves the

Long Savannah — continued

creek few places to rise when hard rain falls. city must account for storms that are 10 percent stronger than previous standards. The city has since made tailored regulations for new developments that drain to the creek. Fountain said those updated rules account for strengthening storms in the wake of climate change. If Long Savannah’s developers are able to show in a later technical review that their project will divert water away from Meanwhile, the groups opposed to Long Savannah’s wetland Church Creek, Charleston’s stormwater chief Matt Fountain permits don’t know when they will hear back on their said, they would not be subject to the special rules for that challenges, but it’s likely there will be a decision on whether basin. DHEC will take their complaints into account by the agency’s July 9 board of directors meeting. DHEC has 60 days to They will still almost certainly face other rules that Charleston respond. recently updated: as of July 1, development designs across the

If the writer wants to park there and use the beach, an Letters to the Editor admission fee must be paid. June 18, 2020 To save money, buy an annual Gold Pass, which gives free Beach amenities cost access to all Charleston County parks, including the fishing pier, Isle of Palms County Park, Caw-Caw County Park, which A June 9 letter to the editor says Folly Beach does not own the gives a birding tour twice a week (free to Gold Pass members beach and beachgoers shouldn’t have to pay to walk on public but $10 otherwise), and Palmetto Islands County Park. beaches. IRVING ROSENFELD In that assertion, the writer is correct: beach access is guaran- Simpkins Street, Charleston teed both by federal law and state law.

Numerous public paths to the beaches are provided. Autos can be parked along streets as long as all four wheels are off the pavement.

Folly Beach County Park, however, is on land owned by the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission.

The county provides parking and various amenities, such as washrooms, showers, life guards, etc.

Editorial: Hold tight on Long Savannah permits

BY THE EDITORIAL STAFF l Jul 2, 2020

just south of Bees Ferry acts as a virtual dam. And the natural course of the creek, which used to shed some runoff into the Stono River via what is now Lake Dotterer and Long Branch Creek, also has been altered by road construction and other manmade structures.

We’ve had to tear out townhomes in nearby Shadowmoss Plantation because of repeat flooding.

We’ve had to overhaul stormwater and landfill rules in such a way that developers will have to be responsible for just about every drop of rain that falls on rooftops, driveways and new roads. For instance, Charleston’s stormwater rules, which took

The Grand Oaks neighborhood, just north of Bees Ferry Road, would abut the effect July 1, essentially prohibit any development north of Long Savannah development, which at build-out could include up to 4,500 Bees Ferry Road from increasing the total volume of water in homes in outer West Ashley. By Lauren Petracca [email protected] Church Creek for 72 hours after it rains. And developers who want to fill land for homes will have to remove 1.25 cubic It doesn’t take much more than common sense, perhaps a yards of soil for every cubic yard they import: Fill-and-build is little map reading or a tramp in the soggy woods north of Bees over and done. Ferry Road, to know that the 3,000-acre housing project Long Savannah and the next-door expansion of Village Green will So a lot has changed since the 2007-08 recession put Long have to shed or store a lot of stormwater runoff somewhere. Savannah and Phase II of Village Green on hold. Flooding has But there’s only so much you can do with just a few feet of become markedly worse. We got rain-bombed in 2015. And elevation change at high tide in the Lowcountry. we since have been grazed by a few big Atlantic storms that didn’t do much damage by way of surge but dropped enor- So what looked like a great plan for the build-out of West mous amounts of rain. Ashley more than a decade ago — the city would get a big new park and establish an urban growth boundary in the plantation Now Long Savannah developer Taylor Bush, who for years has -rich Ashley River Historic District — is now being questioned, had a lock on the land and essential development rights to even by some of the environmentalists who initially endorsed build up to 4,500 homes, is gearing up again, though any tree it. What changed? clearing and earth moving is still probably more than a year away. Quite simply: our awareness of the rising sea and what we know about flooding locally. Charleston’s stormwater chief, Matthew Fountain, says he’s confident in the city’s new set of regulations. A big test will We’ve learned that Church Creek, without some massive come, however, when the developers present their engineering, can’t handle any more water than it already fun- stormwater plans to the city in order to get needed permits to nels slowly into the Ashley River. The railroad line that runs begin construction.

Editorial: Long Savannah permits — continued

“The shift in the city,” Mr. Fountain says, “is that it’s no longer Mr. Fountain says the city also is looking at ways to restore ‘Do the best you can.’ It’s ‘You must get it right.’” some flow in that direction, but that work depends on state and federal grants and is wrapped up in separate plans to The Sierra Club and the South Carolina Wildlife Federation are prevent flooding in the Church Creek basin. Plus, the slight ready to go to court over a state permit that would allow what elevation change isn’t a problem just because of high tides but they contend would be destruction of some 200 acres of also because of a high water table just a few feet below wetlands. Developers say they will more than make up for that ground. Any work to shed runoff to the Stono would involve by preserving more than 1,600 acres of open land, much of it a restoring flow under Glenn McConnell Parkway and in the park, and by preserving 1,900 acres of freshwater wetlands. narrow waterway to Long Branch Creek.

Long Savannah might end up with a large recreational lake. Let the developers figure it out and bear the costs. It’s not the Taylor Bush is also working to come up with a way to divert city’s responsibility to re-engineer an entire flood basin to any additional runoff to the Stono River. accommodate them. The city, which must hold fast to its stricter stormwater and fill regulations, has already committed taxpayers to help sort out the area’s existing problems.

Jill Scott bewildered by plantations being turned into cozy getaway spots: It’s like having a ‘bed-and-breakfast at Auschwitz’ Suzy Byrne l Editor, Yahoo Entertainment Yahoo Celebrity Jun. 24, 2020, 5:43 p.m.

Scott said she decided, “All right, I’m here — let me take the tour.” As they walked through the parlor, the guide was “talking about how they would host guests” in the room and “serve brandy and tea and have conversation and music would be played. Everyone going: Hmm, hmm.”

The tour moved to the living area “and all the mahogany chairs and the chandeliers and things essential that had to have candles… The draperies… The carpets.” And then they headed upstairs to “see the bedrooms and how tidy things were expected to be” by the enslaved, including “the slop jars,” or chamber pots that had to be cleaned after they were urinated and defecated in. Jill Scott at the 51st NAACP Image Awards in February. (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP) She said the tour guide pointed to photos on the wall, “And she says: ‘Notice how no one really smiled back then.’ And I Jill Scott is sharing her connection with touring a former slave looked at those faces. And I decided that I was going to get plantation — and her disbelief that some of them are actually away from this tour and take my own little trip. So I did.” whitewashed and marketed as cozy holiday destinations. What transpired next? “I don’t know what happened,” she In an Instagram video post captioned “Pissed,” the singer and continued, “but somebody took a long, hot piss on that dining actress spoke about being delivered to a plantation, unsure of room carpet.” how she’d feel because of the history, and agreeing to be on the house tour, hearing in regards to the wonderful lives of With zero regrets, she added, “I bet whoever it was wishes the plantation owners — and nary a mention of the brutal they had more piss.” conditions inflicted upon the enslaved people forced to work She ended by expressing disbelief that slave plantations there. continue to be marketed as cozy tourist venues filled with “I was on location, and they brought us to a plantation,” the Southern charm when their history is certainly not. spoken word artist said in the powerful video. “I didn’t know “They make these places into bed-and-breakfasts — that how I was going to feel when I saw it because I actually never people come from around the world to stay in,” Scott said saw one before. But we pulled up, I noticed the beautiful with bewilderment. “They offered me the slave quarters. trees, and I noticed, as we got closer, this beautiful white Oh, it’s remodeled. It’s beautiful. I bet you won’t be going to building. There were people walking all around and taking no bed-and-breakfast at Auschwitz,” discussing the largest of pictures and sitting on the porch in a rocking chair, sipping the German Nazi concentration camps and extermination lemonade. So pretty.” 9

It’s like having — continued

centers where significantly more than 1.1 million men, popular wedding spots), USA Today reports that some have women and children lost their lives. already “recast themselves to starkly portray the evils of slavery.” The article noted that the McLeod Plantation in She ended by saying, “Chew on that.” Charleston, S.C., and the Whitney Plantation near Wallace, Her experience resonated with commenters. One wrote, La., are two which have changed the focus to the lives of the “They treat us like we are ghosts in the room.” Another wrote enslaved inhabitants, showing the slave quarters as a that “the faces in the photos are the same ones.” Another counterpoint to the fancy owners’ domiciles. “They have, in wrote, “This why I wanna buy one so they don’t have the effect, become museums to Black suffering.” power to erase what has happened in these places.” Though it hasn’t been without resistance. The Washington In the wake of George Floyd’s death and the protests for Post reported in December that plantations had started racial equality, changes are now being called for and made — talking “more honestly about slavery,” nevertheless they Confederate statues being removed, the Confederate flag were getting some pushback. An example noted when a tour being banned at NASCAR events, and there were name guide at Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s plantation in changes from the united states group Lady Antebellum to, Charlottesville, Va., pointed out to visitors a garden built by today, the state of Rhode Island. slaves, one demanded to know, “Why are you talking about that? … You should be talking about the plants.” While plantations have long sold themselves as looks at fancy gardens and pretty china collections (and are becoming To borrow Jill Scott’s line, “Chew on that.”

Plantation tours evolve to put more focus on the experiences of enslaved people

Chris Woodyard l USA TODAY Published 7:00am ET June 22, 2020

As Confederate statues fall, NASCAR and the U.S. Marine At Whitney Plantation, the self-guided tour starts at a Corps ban the display of the rebel flag and even the country memorial that gives an overview of slavery and then goes on group Lady Antebellum changes its name, another reminder of to shed light on the lives of enslaved people and their work on one of the darkest chapters of American history, former plan- the plantation. tations, still beckon tourists. "I think that plantations, because of the times, are moving to But those who think their plantation visit will be focused on be more inclusive of the narrative of enslaved people," said china collections and lush gardens may be in for a surprise. plantation spokeswoman Joy Banner, herself descended from More of the estates have recast themselves to starkly portray the enslaved people of the estate. "We try very, very hard to the evils of slavery. tell the full story of slavery."

Some, such as the McLeod Plantation in Charleston, South At the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in Charleston, history Carolina, or the Whitney Plantation near Wallace, Louisiana, and culture coordinator Joseph McGill leads the "From Slavery put their focus on the lives of enslaved people. They show the to Freedom" tours that portray life in the quarters of enslaved interiors of quarters of enslaved people in sharp contrast to people. the luxury of the plantation owners' houses. They have, in "We are being more frank in telling the real story with the lives effect, become museums to Black suffering. of the slaves on the plantation," said McGill, who has been at At a time when the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Magnolia since 2011. In addition, he said he has assisted in Minneapolis police officer has unleashed a wave of reassess- making sure their stories are infused into guides' descriptions ment when it comes to symbols, relics or monuments that on other tours. After all, he said, their efforts made the rest of stand in the way of equality for Black Americans, some former the plantation possible, such as planting and harvesting rice plantations stained with the history of slavery stand apart as that would later foster the plantation's heralded gardens. tourism destinations that work toward education.

"I am convinced they have a very valuable role to play in society. I have seen them evolve over several decades," said Bernard Powers, director of the Center for the Study of Slavery in Charleston at the College of Charleston.

When he first visited plantations in the area in the 1970s, Powers said the focus was mansion tours and the lush lives of the estates' owners. Docents may not have referred to Black workers as slaves or enslaved people but rather as servants.

Now, he said, some tours may start in the quarters of enslaved people before working their way to the main house. They may display the cruel implements of slavery, like a knife used for branding, rather than glossing over the issue to celebrate the A guide leads a group tour of the cabins of enslaved people at the pre-Civil War life of plantation owners. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in Charleston, South Carolina . Magnolia Plantation

Plantation tours — continued

McGill has also gone a step further, hosting campfire sessions that can often lead to frank discussions about slavery. One woman, he said, confessed her father was a former member of the Ku Klux Klan with whom she was trying to mend a relationship.

The newfound emphasis on Black history and the life of enslaved people is possible, he said, because visitors have more background on the subject than in the past.

"Our guests have been very supportive of this mission," McGill After being freed, former Montpelier slave, George Gilmore fought said. "People come here, they know the truth. They know land across the road from the estate and built this cabin in 1873. It has what they learned through American education did not been preserved and is part of the estate now. Montpelier Foundation adequately address the story of slavery."

The story of slavery applies to the estates of U.S. presidents, as well. At Montpelier, the Virginia estate of President James Madison and his wife, Dolley, the staff has woven in the story of the Because George Washington was such a devout record- enslaved people who worked there over the years – about 100 keeper, the staff at Mount Vernon in Virginia say they were at any given time – including a permanent exhibit by reaching able to assemble an exhibit now on display that delves into the out to descendants, said Elizabeth Chew, executive vice stories of 19 enslaved people, including their daily activities, president and chief curator. families, hardships they endured and how they bounded together as a community, said spokesman Matt Briney. The plantation, where the home is closed amid the coronavirus pandemic but the 2,700 acres of forest and But telling the tragedy of slavery can also be an invitation to grounds remain open, has sponsored a Juneteenth celebration push back. for five years.

The holiday celebrating the Emancipation Proclamationis observed annually on June 19 and took on added significance this year as racial injustice protests continue.

Most visitors love the plantation's celebration, but some complain, saying, "We came to hear about the Madisons," Chew said. But she indicates that to not delve deeply into the issue of slavery would be to give short shrift to the truth.

"What we tell you is the whole story," she said. "African American history is American history."

The interior of quarters of enslaved people at Mount Vernon, George Washington’s estate. Mt. Vernon Estate 12

Teaching kids about African American history by visiting local Charleston landmarks By Barry Waldman Special to Lowcountry Parent l June 24, 2020

It is not possible to tell Charleston’s story without weaving in The civil rights movement in the United States begins way the narrative of African Americans. The grand plantations, the before Jackie Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier or Rev. beautiful historic houses and the immense agricultural wealth King announced that he had a dream. It dates to the that made them possible were built by the hands and importation of enslaved Africans, 40 percent of whom arrived expertise of enslaved Africans as part of a horrific epoch of on American shores in Charleston. The history of civil rights American history. was written by African Americans who involuntarily built most of the city’s renowned historic landmarks and made the It is not an easy subject to discuss with children, but community one of the wealthiest in the nation. And of course, Charleston’s past is a complex web of freedom and the war that brought an end to slavery in this country started oppression, honor and disgrace. The African American with shots fired at Fort Sumter in the Charleston harbor from experience — slavery, Reconstruction, Jim Crow and civil rights Fort Johnson on James Island. — is stitched thickly into the history of our beloved community. To explain the full story of civil rights to children requires returning to the 18th century and the mass shipment and sale Living in the Lowcountry affords us the privilege of proximity of Africans to the American South. to so much history-making. Spectacular educational opportunities are available to families here at low cost, “There is no other colony in America whose history comes offering parents and children a window into the world we now close to Charleston’s when it comes to African Americans,” live in. says Franklin Williams, owner/operator of Frankly Charleston Black History Tours. “Everywhere in the South had slaves but “You cannot understand the present if you don’t know the in Charleston slavery was an industry.” past,” notes Ruth Miller, author of the book Slavery to Civil Rights and leader of a walking tour of the same name. “You Many slaves arrived by ship to Charleston and were auctioned can’t understand why civil rights are so important to African Americans if you don’t know what they lived through.”

When you think of the centers of civil rights in the United States, Charleston probably doesn’t jump to mind. We likely think first of Martin Luther King’s home in Atlanta; the sites of protests in Selma and Birmingham, Alabama; the school district headquarters in Topeka, Kansas, whose Board of Education was sued by Oliver Brown; the U.S. Supreme Court and the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

But Charleston may truly be the birthplace of the African American experience. To teach your children about the struggle from slavery to civil rights that persists today in the United States, many of the most telling landmarks are right in your backyard. The war that barought an edn to slavery in this country started with shots fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston harbor form Fort Johnson on James Island . DREAMTIME

Teaching kids — continued

along with other property like rice, dry goods and farm Most locals avoid Market Street and the hordes of tourists, equipment at the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon at the but African American history is on display in the form of corner of East Bay and Broad Streets. The Old Exchange is sweetgrass basket sales, says Avery’s Courtney Hicks. “Ask the open for docent-led tours every day 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during women about their raw material and about the history of the which this part of its history is explored, along with its role in baskets because Gullah history and West African history are the American Revolution and the ratification of the part of Charleston’s history,” she says. Constitution. One tour focuses specifically on enslavement and Reconstruction. Another site that can be seen and understood simply by walking around historic downtown are the identifiable iron When open air slave auctions were banned in 1856, they creations of master 20th century blacksmith Phillip Simmons. moved inside to what is now The Old Slave Mart Museum at 6 His decorative wrought iron gates, fences, balconies and Chalmers St. Make reservations for staff-led programming window grills can be seen extensively on the upper East Side aimed at children in third grade and above. and Rainbow Row, and identified by their tight coils and intricate patterns. Simmons was considered a national A gorgeous 37-acre Gullah-Geechee heritage site, McLeod treasure until his death in 2009. Plantation has carefully preserved both its 600-year-old oak trees and its history. The story of all its inhabitants — the Simmons’ pieces, along with sweetgrass baskets and other enslaved Africans as well as the rich white owners — are artifacts of African American life in the Lowcountry are on recounted in detail. display at the Avery Institute at 125 Bull Street. Once an elite private school for black children before public schools were “McLeod Plantation gives a voice to the enslaved,” says desegregated, it is now open as a museum with a restored Courtney Hicks at the Avery Research Center. “Sure, it’s classroom, a Denmark Vesey exhibit and rotating showings of beautiful, but get beyond the house and learn about how the African American artists. people were treated, how young children were worked, the trauma and the pain.” Avery Institute is a must-see for anyone interested in the civil rights movement, says Franklin Williams. “It’s a treasure trove Charleston is home to several of the oldest churches for — a Fort Knox — of African American history,” he says. African Americans in the South, started informally before the Civil War and officially dedicated immediately after its Before her name was on the Charleston crosstown, Septima conclusion. Among the notable are Morris Brown AME Clark was the mother of the civil rights movement here, rising Church, Mt. Zion AME, Old Bethel Methodist Church to prominence after being fired from her job educating black and Emanuel AME Church, the oldest black church in the children for joining the NAACP. She went on to continue her South. Mother Emanuel served as home church for Denmark fight for education and worked beside Thurgood Marshall and Vescey and Morris Brown, allegedly leaders of a slave Martin Luther King, who called her the “Mother of the insurrection in 1822. The assassination of nine parishioners Movement.” five years ago demonstrated that the violent history against In 2020, the country continues to be roiled by racial discord. African Americans is not simply an antebellum issue. Perhaps a deeper understanding of the African American Most of these churches are easy to tour, though Mother experience by parents and children alike can help us all Emanuel requires reservations. The best way to visit, says appreciate the common human condition. Franklin Williams of Frankly Charleston Black History Tours, is to attend services.

Recreation departments encourage getting outdoors, adhering to CDC guidelines Cecilia Brown [email protected] hrs ago June 24, 2020

Lowcountry residents can escape to local parks and trails to Gergick explained a lot of safety precautions have been put stay active throughout the summer. The Town of Mount into place, but primarily the responsibility falls on users of the Pleasant Recreation Department and Charleston County Parks facilities. He shared that recreation department staff are and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) have reopened facilities required to wear masks when they are in public areas. Due to and parks that were previously closed this spring due to the the nature of certain sports and programs, some recreation coronavirus with new precautionary measures. staff has been permitted not to wear a mask during activities. Currently the town is offering masks for anyone that would “It’s very important to get out and exercise and to be outside like to wear one. and get fresh air. The COVID-19 virus didn’t change the need for that. It’s always been important,” said the Town of Mount Gergick said the town has been able to continue with an Pleasant’s Recreation Director, Steve Gergick. overwhelming number of summer camps offered at the town. He said only a few have been canceled in spite of coronavirus Gergick explained there are many opportunities for people to cases on the climb and most of those have been due to get out and exercise, socialize and do so responsibly. The town instructors canceling for personal reasons or concerns. Gergick has reopened all parks and facilities that were previously said in reality, due to the nature of the camps, there is not closed. The Mount Pleasant Senior Center was the final town much social distancing that goes on within a camp. facility to open on June 22. In addition to routinely sanitizing equipment and wiping down high-touch surfaces, the Recreation Department staff is also providing hand sanitizer locations at facilities and summer camp sign-in tables. They are not checking temperatures at camps or to enter facilities. Instead, they are asking anyone who feels sick to stay home and for everyone to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The Recreation Department has also posted signage encouraging social distancing at parks and facilities. Water fountains at all town facilities and parks have been secured to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Gergick said they encourage everyone to bring their own water bottles to stay hydrated.

Parents are encouraged to sanitize their hands prior to signing their children in at camps and programs. Also, parents are not allowed to come into a facility beyond the sign-in area to help limit the number of people inside town facilities.

The town’s summer camps began on June 8 and will run through Aug. 7. This week the Recreation Department is offering a wide array of camps including soccer, skateboarding, Signage at Palmetto Islands County Park Provided/CCPRC

Recreation departments — continued

zip lining, Sweetgrass basket making, medieval story tales, open to the public at town parks and facilities. Signage limiting cheerleading and more. There are still vacancies for many of group sizes and mandating walking patterns have been their summer camps. Parents can view a full list of camps and removed, according to Gergick. As the responsibility to reduce sign their children up online at tompsc.com/203/Recreation. the spread of COVID-19 falls on the public, Gergick encourages Parents can email questions to [email protected]. people to get outside and enjoy their facilities while adhering to CDC guidelines. The town closed the Whipple Tennis Center on June 10 after an individual attending camp tested positive for COVID-19. “People just need to be responsible and practice social Gergick explained that everyone exposed were unable to distancing. They’re open parks available to the public to go out return to camp and the facility closed for thorough cleaning and use as they always have,” Gergick said. “We are not and sanitizing. hosting any large events. We had to cancel the Blessing of the Fleet scheduled for June 28. That was a real disappointment The town has also resumed other recreation programs such as because that’s a real favorite here and we really wanted to do track and field, tee ball and coaches pitch. Registration for fall it.” sports will be open July 5-20. The town has been able to resume the Farmers Market at the Farmers Market Pavilion on The event was originally scheduled in April, and then Coleman Boulevard each Tuesday at 1 p.m. All town pools are postponed to June, before the town canceled the event which open for swimming, water aerobics and group exercise classes. normally brings hundreds of people to Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park for a blessing of the shrimp fleet and Gergick said as of now, the Recreation Department has celebration with vendors, food and music. changed or canceled any programs scheduled for the fall. He did reflect that in March he did not anticipate many of the He explained that the Party in the Park that normally took restrictions they are implementing for their summer programs, place each Tuesday evening of June has been postponed to so they will continue to monitor and make decisions based on September. Gergick said it will be the same setting, with a what is best for the public. possibility of even better weather at the Waterfront Park in the fall. The Recreation Department is also holding individual Gergick explained that the town had built in re-opening phases lessons for piano, guitar, voice, violin and more through its for their parks and facilities, but they ended up opening them Program Division. based on guidance from Gov. Henry McMaster and reopened everything in May. One of the main programs the department recently decided to cancel was the summer basketball league. Gergick estimated Now, the public is welcome at all of the town’s outdoor several hundred kids were signed up for the program prior to facilities to walk trails, exercise at parks or on fields, play on the cancellation. He said the decision was based on the nature playgrounds and enjoy fresh air. There are also open gym of the indoor sport and activities they typically did during the hours for people to play basketball and exercise. The schedule camp. for open gym hours changes weekly, depending on which activities are planned at each facility and can be found on the “If you’re not in a program or activity, that doesn’t mean you recreation department’s website. can’t get out and take advantage of the field and get out and use the outdoor areas and ride a bike and do all the things that Signage at town facilities encourages safe social distancing and we’ve done for years to stay healthy to be active,” Gergick reminds people not to gather in large groups. Benches are said.

Recreation departments — continued

County parks CCPRC reopened parks beginning on May 8 after closing in March and placed signage with guidelines throughout its In addition to the Town of Mount Pleasant’s facilities and parks. parks, CCPRC has reopened their facilities and parks in the East Cooper area. “We’ve been seeing a really good response from the public. People are really taking the warning seriously. They’re abiding Laurel Hill County Park in Mount Pleasant offers a parking by the social distancing rules,” Leyh said. area and trails for people to explore and exercise. Justin Leyh, Assistant Park Manager for Laurel Hill County Park explained With COVID-19 rises on the rise in the area, Leyh said they are since there are no restrooms, water fountains or playgrounds; asking people to be responsible and to practice social the park makes for an easy place to socially distance. distancing when they are at the park. He said if they can’t practice social distancing, a mask is always a good idea, but they are not required at Laurel Hill

Kevin Gillum, Park Manager at Palmetto Islands County Park in Mount Pleasant has worked for CCPRC for 21 years. He also has complimented the park visitors that have returned since they reopened on May 8.

“Everyone’s been doing a great job of just being mindful of one another, following those guidelines. It’s been a wonderful experience having the customers come back out, enjoy the park and seeing everyone get along the way they have,” Gillum said.

He also said it has been a refreshing time for the park’s staff members as they were able to paint, “There is plenty of space, plenty of trails, prune and clean the park up while it lots of room for people to get out and was closed this spring. He said he’s enjoy the outdoors, but do so in a safe been pleased to hear compliments manner,” Leyh said. from regulars to the park that noticed He shared they are also asking visitors to the updates as they have returned to abide by CDC guidelines for social distanc- Palmetto Islands. ing and has observed most people have When Palmetto Islands reopened they been making a conscious effort to give one put signs up throughout the park to another space when passing by one encourage social distancing and only another on the trails at Laurel Hill. reopened their trail system to the “Use the distance that you have out there public at first. to your advantage and keep your space,” Leyh said.

Recreation departments — continued

The dog park, accommodate more people at the water park safely. He said it playground, obser- was cold during the first week of reopening, but they vation tower, anticipate more families and children will come out in the water access for weeks ahead. kayaks, bike rentals, shelter rentals, CCPRC has also resumed its Explorer Camp at Palmetto Islands tents and water through Aug. 7, with a limited number of campers per week. park remained Following time at home this spring, Gillium encourages people closed to help to visit Palmetto Islands as they get outside for exercise. reduce large gath- erings. Now, they “It’s just a great way out here to reconnect with nature. have re-opened in We have several miles of trails that are undeveloped and it’s a a phase approach great park as far as to get out and see wildlife. Lots of great with new sanitiza- birds. Lots of great vistas of the marsh in an inhibited way,” tion measures. Gillum said.

“People are com- He also said the fishing at Palmetto Islands has been fantastic ing out actually in recently and they have plenty of dock space for people to really good numbers year over year. People are coming out spread out while fishing. and respecting one another, getting out on the trails and walk- Gillum said they are encouraging guests to be mindful of other ing. We couldn’t be happier with the customer’s response to visitors at the park and complimented the parents who have reopening and coming back out to the park and practicing so- been making sure their children are staying nearby. He cial distancing and respecting one another,” Gillum added. encourages families to bring scooters and bikes to ride at the As the park has resumed normal operations, Gillum said they park or make a visit to play on the playground. have posted signage with CDC guidelines pertaining to For more information about county parks and facilities, call COVID-19, including signs in the bathrooms reminding people 843-795-4386 or visit ccprc.com. to wash their hands thoroughly for 20 seconds.

Gillum confirmed they have not reopened their pedal boat rentals to avoid close contact assisting park guests in and out of boats. Also, the water fountains in the park have yet to be turned back on. Gillum encourages people to bring their own water to the park, especially during hot summer months to avoid dehydration when exercising at the park.

CCPRC reopened Splash Island Waterpark at Palmetto Islands on Monday, June 15 for the first time since Labor Day with a capacity of 250 guests at a time. Gillum said they will continue to evaluate this as time goes on and see if they can

Best of Charleston 2020

Best of Charleston 2020 / Week 2

June 10 & June 17, 2020

Starting June 10, for two full weeks, the carnival is in town. Recreation, Health & Beauty You're holding the first of two volumes of Best of Charleston 2020, featuring your selections for the all-knowing, all-seeing, It should go without saying that our beautiful city is chock-full omnipotent businesses, people, and personalities in all the of stellar options for healthy recreational activities. Whether land. (Or at least in all of Charleston.) you’re working out at a local barre or cycling studio or getting trained by the strongest woman in town (hello Best Personal In all seriousness, we know that the past few months have Trainer, Kelly Sekulovski) the world really is your oyster. been very difficult for many of you as our lives changed to Speaking of sea life, you can get your aquatic fix with keep each other healthy. Thousands of people have lost jobs, Charleston’s Best Stand Up Paddleboard Company (Coastal faced unpaid bills and had to make tough decisions about how Expeditions) or Best Dive Shop (Charleston Scuba). to move ahead. We all hope fewer of those painful moments lie in the weeks ahead. Let’s not forget those other important businesses that fall under the category of Rec, Health & Beauty like the docs But in our view, that makes this year's Best of Charleston looking out for your peepers (Best Eye Doctor, Draisin Vision notable — a recognition of what we can all agree (mostly!) on Group’s Dr. Elyse DeWitt) or the folks making sure you keep that makes our city a special place to live. So, keep doing what that Charleston glow all year long (Best Tanning Salon, you've been doing in the past few months to help our Charleston Glow). Whether you need your nails done or your neighborhood places. And take a look through these pages beach gear restocked, we’ve got the spots for you. this week and next and support the winners as you see fit, note the advertisers who make the City Paper's independent Park: James Island County Park journalism possible and join us in celebrating our hometown. Step right up. Place for Kids to Play: James Island County Park

CHARLESTON COUNTY NEWS Charleston County waterparks opening Monday by: Chase Laudenslager Posted: Jun 11, 2020 / 09:51 PM EDT

• Guests will notice increased signage throughout the parks that inform them of updated procedures and help them maintain social distancing while in lines.

• Tubes/kickboards/mats and other shared equipment will be sanitized according to the specific needs for each area of use.

• Guests who wish to leave and return to the park will be issued a wrist band to put on before exiting. WCBD-Whirlin' Waters Adventure • Tables and chairs are sanitized and placed to promote CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Three Charleston County water- social distancing. parks and the West Ashley Aquatics Center will reopen to the public on Monday, May 15. • Restrooms will be inspected and cleaned multiple times throughout the day Charleston County Parks and Recreation announced that Whirlin Waters, Splash Zone, and Splash Island will open for • Life jackets available upon request. If you do not wish to the summer season, though capacity will be limited amid use one of our life jackets for your child, you are welcome COVID-19 concerns. to bring your own.

The waterparks are implementing increased health and safety • Splash Passes will not be available for the 2020 season. measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Guests are Those who purchased a Splash Pass prior to the season asked to refrain from visiting if they are sick or have will be refunded. symptoms, bring hand sanitizer and frequently wash hands, • Birthday parties, discounted rates (i.e. after 3 p.m. rate avoid gathering and practice social distancing, and respect the and group rates), promotional days and other select safety barriers that are in place. Water fountains are not offerings will not be available in June. currently available for use, so visitors are asked to bring their own water bottles. • Cashless transactions are encouraged.

Charleston County Parks and Recreation released the Copyright 2020 Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. following additional protocols to be followed by waterparks:

CHARLESTON COUNTY NEWS New amenities open at Folly Beach County Park by: Chase Laudenslager Posted: Jun 12, 2020 / 10:07 PM EDT / Updated: Jun 12, 2020 / 10:07 PM EDT

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – New amenities have opened at The park’s Pelican Watch Pavilion, which was originally built in Folly Beach County Park just in time for the summer season. 1982 when the park first opened, has been upgraded as well.

A new and improved Dunes House, complete with restrooms, To allow guests to take advantage of the new amenities, the outdoor showers, changing stations, covered and open picnic park will now be open until sunset daily. space, concessions, offices and space for lifeguard staff, and a large viewing deck, has opened in the park. The Dunes House Dunes House on Folly Beach is designed with break-away walls on the first floor “to protect the building in the event of storm surge,” as the original building had to be demolished following Hurricane Irene in 2011.

Additionally, two new boardwalk access paths from the parking lot to the beach have been created. The paths feature showers and changing stations.

Dunes House open at Folly Beach after damage from Hurricane Irene in 2011 by Tony Fortier-Bensen Friday, June 12th 2020

FOLLY BEACH, SC (WCIV) — In 2011, Hurricane Irene caused so On the second floor, there are restrooms, concessions, offices, much damage to the Dunes House on Folly Beach that it had a room for the lifeguard staff and additional picnic staff with a to be demolished. large viewing deck.

Now in 2020, the newly-built Dunes House is officially Parks and Rec officials said Folly Beach County Park will now standing again where it once stood and is now open again. stay open until sunset daily.

The Charleston County Parks and Recreation recently opened Additionally, the park has two new boardwalk access paths the Dunes House at Folly Beach County Park, and the building from the parking lot to the beach with showers and changing features outdoor showers, changing stations and eight stations. covered picnic tables on the ground floor. For more information on Folly Beach County Park, click HERE.

Folly Beach County Park opens new Dunes House and other improved amenities By The Charleston Chronicle | June 16, 2020

The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission Folly Beach County Park will now be open until sunset daily so recently opened new amenities at its Folly Beach County Park. that guests can take advantage of the sunset views.

A newly built Dunes House now stands on the property after In addition to the Dunes House, the park also unveiled several the original structure was demolished after Hurricane Irene in other new amenities, including two new boardwalk access 2011. The new Dunes House features outdoor showers, paths from the parking lot to the beach with showers and changing stations and eight covered picnic tables on the changing stations, and improvements to the park’s Pelican ground floor; the second floor provides restrooms, Watch Pavilion. concessions, offices, a room for lifeguard staff, additional The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission picnic space and a large viewing deck. opened Folly Beach County Park in 1982. The Pelican Watch The building was designed to take advantage of the park’s Pavilion and the original Dunes House also opened at this beautiful sunset and ocean views, and the large deck offers a time. In August 2011, Hurricane Irene caused major erosion at place to admire these vistas. Concessions sold will include Folly Beach County Park, effectively closing the park. After a snacks and lunch items. The Dunes House also offers a shower stabilization project and construction of a terminal drop-off area, ADA parking and a crossover to the adjacent groin at the park, Folly Beach County Park reopened to the beach. public in July 2013.

Walls of the first level of the Dunes House were designed to For more information on Folly Beach County Park, visit break away to protect the building in the event of storm CharlestonCountyParks.com. surge.

TRI-COUNTY NEWS Whirlin’ Waters limits capacity to 1,000 guests for reopening By Alexis Simmons | June 15, 2020 at 2:50 PM EDT - Updated June 15 at 7:38 PM

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Charleston County waterparks are “Today is pretty good,” Friess said. “Not very many people open for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began. here, they’re missing a few things, but overall makes it fun.”

On Monday, the county's three waterparks opened with Brown says they’ve removed the tubes from the wave pool limited capacity. The Charleston County Park and Recreation because the waves tend to cause people to bump into each Commission decided on the reopening day. other, and they want to keep people distant. Employees are cleaning restrooms more frequently and sanitizing tables and The parks include Splash Island in Mt. Pleasant, Splash Zone chairs which are also spaced out. on James Island and Whirlin' Waters in North Charleston. The general manager says they’ve introduced new sanitizing Whirlin' Waters has a normal capacity of about 4,200 people. procedures for the tubes, and that chlorine gets the job done. Due to the coronavirus pandemic and to promote social distancing, park officials are limiting capacity to about 1,000 “The beautiful part about a water park is that we are full of guests at a time. chlorine, we have chlorine everywhere, in the pools down the slides etc.,” Brown said. “The tubes that come down those Sue Conley brought her grandson to Whirlin’ Waters on slides are getting saturated... what we’re doing is as they opening day. come down we’ll flip the tube over then put it on the deck for “My daughter and her husband are back to work and all of his the customer to use.” summer camps got cancelled," Conley said."I drove up from Brown also says they are keeping the tubes floating in the lazy Florida yesterday and I’m keeping him for a couple of days river even when they aren't being used to keep them when I don’t work. It’s great to be out here.” sanitized. The general manager for Wannamaker County Park and Joey Sherman says it’s been excellent being out at the park. Whirlin’ Waters Edmonds Brown says there are several changes in place to keep guests safe. “I’m so happy that my favorite slide ever, the red slide, is working,” Sherman said. “We have never been closed for this long. We’ve been closed at different times because of hurricanes but never anything The waterparks are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. like this,” Brown said. “We’d welcome people to come out and gives us a try, and On Monday, there were no line wait times. The rain also I think we’re able to accomplish what needs to happen in the impacted turnout. middle of this COVID-19 virus.” Brown said.

Normally, Whirlin' Waters would have opened a month and half ago for the start of the season. For a more details on new protocols at Charleston County There's plexiglass installed to provide a barrier between waterparks click here. guests and the employees at ticket booths, food areas and The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission says other sale counters. the Aquatic Center in Hollywood also reopened on Monday David Friess visited the park with family. with limited capacity.

NEWS BRIEFS: New amenities open at Folly Beach County Park Charleston Currents l 06/15/2020 8:29 am l comments off

Dunes House at Folly Beach County Park photo provided.

Staff reports | Folly Beach County Park now features big improvements that will help you enjoy a popular park even more.

In addition to new boardwalk access paths from the parking lot to the beach, there are outdoor showers, changing Charleston Nine remembrance. The Charleston Fire stations and improvements to the Pelican Watch Pavilion. Department will commemorate the 13th anniversary of the deaths of nine city firefighters at 7 p.m. June 18 at the But the biggest change is the new Dunes House that replaces a memorial park dedicated to them. It is located at 1800 structure destroyed in 2011 during Hurricane Irene. The Dunes Savannah Highway in West Ashley. The event will be closed House features eight covered picnic tables, restrooms, due to the coronavirus pandemic and will be limited to those concessions, a lifeguard room, offices and a large viewing deck conducting the ceremony and providing remarks. The so visitors can enjoy the park’s sunset and ocean views. program will, however, be live-streamed on the Charleston Folly Beach County Park, located at the south end of Folly Fire Department Facebook page, @charlestonfire. Beach, is scheduled to remain open until sunset daily. Learn Redux exhibit now open. Redux Contemporary Art Center will more about the park at ccprc.com. present Creative Corridors: The Annual Redux Studio Artist Also in the news: Exhibition through July 24. The Annual Studio Artist Exhibition is an opportunity for Redux resident artists to showcase a Five days to comment. The initial public review period for the sample of their work, as it relates to a specific prompt and is U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’s Charleston Peninsula Coastal curated as a group exhibition in Redux’s main exhibition Flood Risk Management Study will close on Friday. Citizens are space. The exhibition is open Mondays and Wednesdays from encouraged to review the current Draft Feasibility Report and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. More. Environmental Assessment, available here, and to provide feedback online here

Charleston hopes to expand Johns Island Park using $1.6 million in greenbelt funds By David Slade [email protected] June 19, 2020

Johns Island Park would see a substantial expansion if the city Karl Brady. “The Johns Island Park is already nice, but this is an of Charleston completes a proposed purchase of more than 11 opportunity to really invest in Johns Island.” acres of adjacent land. The city is seeking about $1.6 million in Charleston County “We know we have needs to serve the citizens of Johns Island Greenbelt funds to buy the property. The money would be and Charleston County,” said Jason Kronsberg, Charleston’s part of the city’s remaining allocation of greenbelt funds, parks director. “This would give us an opportunity to possibly worth about $35 million. provide a recreation center and more open space.” The City of Charleston is seeking to add 11.25 acres of land to The current park, near the intersection of Maybank Highway Johns Island Park. The purchase would be paid for with and Main Road, includes baseball fields, tennis courts, Greenbelt funds. restrooms, a playground, a dog park, disc golf and open space. The city’s application is moving through the county approval It’s the city’s only active recreation park on Johns Island, process, so far with a committee-level recommendation for portions of which are within the city limits. approval.

The land is behind Twin Oaks Chiropractic Centre on Maybank Highway. Kronsberg said the purchase could allow for access to the expanded park from Maybank Highway.

If the city does not acquire the land to use as a park, current Charleston zoning would allow up to 66 homes there.

With I-526 extension moving forward once again, Charleston communities brace for impact

If the city does acquire the land, it’s not clear how it would be used to expand the park, or when. Kronsberg said the city’s is working on a 10-year plan for recreation that would include Johns Island Park. Charleston’s John’s Island Park, at Hay and Walpole roads near the intersection of Maybank Highway and Main Road. The city is pursuing a In 2016 the Charleston County Park and Recreation $1.6 million purchase of nearly 12 acres, to expand the park. Provided Commission announced plans to build a pool in the city’s park, part of a larger effort to make sure residents of rural “When the parks department started talking to me about areas learn how to swim. Those plans later changed, shifting expanding the park, I was over the moon,” said Councilman

Johns Island City Park — continued

the location of the swimming pool to the town of Hollywood, Kronsberg said.

Charleston is seeking input about Johns Island Park through an online survey at surveymonkey.com/r/JohnsIslandPark.

It’s not uncommon for local governments to acquire land for future parks using Charleston County Greenbelt funds and then take years to improve the land for park use.

Charleston, Mount Pleasant and the county Park and Recreation Commission all own large tracts of land where future parks are planned. The greenbelt funds used to acquire Tim O’Rouke (center), Charleston County’s Parks and Recreation Department the properties are meant to protect land from development director at the time, leads a group from the department and the Parklands and are generated through the same countywide half-cent Foundation on a tour of the site of a planned public pool in the city of Charleston’s at Johns Island Park in 2016. The county’s plans for a pool were sales tax that also funds road construction projects. later shifted to Hollywood. File/Brad Nettles/Staff

Proposed Johns Island Park Expansion

FESTIVALS + EVENTS Juneteenth Ancestral Worship Ritual Ceremony

By Connelly Hardaway June 17, 2020

Staff Pick Festivals + Events, City Picks, Staff Pick

When: Sun., June 21, 6-8 p.m. McLeod Plantation 25 Country Club Road Price: Donations JAMES ISLAND

De Gullah Griot aka Giovanni Richardson hosts a Juneteenth ancestral worship ritual ceremony at McLeod Plantation this Sunday. Participants are asked to dress in all white to honor ancestors who made it through Juneteenth (also known as Freedom Day, signifying the emancipation of the last remaining enslaved African). Attendees will have a procession to the offering (of food and flowers), join a unity circle and perform a personal ritual.

Festivals + Events, City Picks, Staff Pick City picks: What we're streaming, seeing and doing this week Events for the week of June 17 — 24

By Connelly Hardaway June 17, 2020

Festivals + Events and City Picks

Promiseland

Local artist Fletcher Williams III has opened a new exhibition, Promiseland, at the Aiken-Rhett House, on view through July 15. Promiseland features new and recent creations from Williams including large-scale works on paper, sculptures and installations. The exhibition continues to explore Williams’ ongoing interpretation and disfiguration of the white picket fence, an emblem he defines as imbued with aspiration, social mobility and the American dream. Visual Arts and City Picks Summer Solstice Party Ranky Tanky performs as part of this Friday's CSO livestream concert, Call and Response: A Concert for Equality - PROVIDED Head to Palmetto Brewing Co. for a party that rocks all day long (it is the longest day of the year, after all). Enjoy food from That’s My Dawg Food Truck as well as promos and Whether you're leaving your house this weekend (be sure to specials throughout the day. There will be live music from social distance!) or chillin' at home, here are our Jenna Feeney and as always, Blade and Bull Axe Throwing. recommendations for what to stream, see and do. Summer Solstice Yoga Call and Response: A Concert for Equality Take part in open-air, solar-inspired yoga at James Island County Park this Thursday, held to celebrate the summer The Charleston Symphony Orchestra presents a special solstice. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, participants will be livestream program this Friday, Call and Response: A Concert limited to 100 people and yoga mats will be spaced out at for Equality, leveraging the power of music and the spoken least six feet apart. word to promote unity and understanding. The evening features music of African American and Afro-British Juneteenth Ancestral Worship Ritual Ceremony composers as well as guest speakers including Charlton De Gullah Griot aka Giovanni Richardson hosts a Juneteenth Singleton, Edward Hart and Darrin Goss, Sr. The program ancestral worship ritual ceremony at McLeod Plantation this concludes with a performance from Charleston’s Ranky Tanky. Sunday. Participants are asked to dress in all white to honor Summer Solstice Beach Bash ancestors who made it through Juneteenth (also known as Freedom Day, signifying the emancipation of the last Celebrate the longest day of the year at Mex 1 Sullivan’s remaining enslaved African). Attendees will have a procession Island with music from Hans Wenzel and the Eighty Sixers. to the offering (of food and flowers), join a unity circle and Enjoy drink specials from Patron Tequila. perform a personal ritual.

Weekly round up June 1-June 8: Summer events to keep the kids occupied now that school’s out

By Sara Novak Jun 2, 2020

Whether you want to call what I’ve been doing school or not, who complete 18 of the activities receive a board book, shaker it’s out and we’re exciting to spend the summer relaxing. But egg and storytime scarf. Students entering grades 6-12 can then there’s the question, “how in the world am I going to win cool prizes for reading whatever they like. Teens are keep the kids occupied all summer?” Of course, there’s the rewarded when they read five, 15, and, 30 hours. Prizes beach and then the pool and then the beach again, but then include earbuds, fidget spinners, vouchers for local restaurants what? Have no fear, we’re here with ideas that will keep you and attractions, a brand-new YA/middle grade book, a both safe and sane this summer. Summer Reading t-shirt and more. Teens are eligible for weekly prize drawings for reading only five pages or five minutes Don’t miss drive in movies at The Terrace Theater. Who says per week. Twenty teens system-wide will win the grand prize, you can’t go see your favorite movies in the age of COVID. a $50 gift card and Kindle Fire 7 tablet. ccpl.org/summeronline Gates open at 7 p.m. each night and tickets are very limited. When you arrive, check in at the front of the building Next Thursday, June 4 starting at 7:30 p.m. come to Starlight underneath the marquee. A staff member will verify your Yoga on the Beach at Folly Beach County Park. The moon ticket and direct you to the parking lot, where another staff and stars enhance this flowing yoga class while sand serves as member will direct you to your parking space. Cars will be the classroom floor and crashing waves as the soundtrack. parked one at a time. SUVs, trucks and other large vehicles will be directed to the back, while smaller cars will be closer to the screen. The sound from the movie is transmitted to your vehicle’s FM radio. Be sure to set your radio to channel 88.3 FM after parking! Concessions must be purchased online before the show (see their concessions ordering page) and can be picked up at check-in. Sorry, no refills on popcorn or drinks. Concessions will close at 10 p.m. each night. $28 per car and no more than six people per car. Spaces are limited so be sure to book in advance. terracetheater.com/terrace-drive-in.

Registration is also open for this year’s CCPL’s summer reading program. Kids ages 11 and younger can earn prizes for reading or listening to stories. Rewards are distributed to kids who complete five, 15 and 30 hours of reading. Prizes include the S.C. Reading Medal, a Summer Reading T-Shirt, a brand-new K-5th grade book, vouchers for local attractions and more. Starlight Yoga - The Starlight Yoga Series is one way to em- Summer Reading for Babies is for pre-readers. Participants brace health and wellness while being social.

Weekly round — continued

Open to all fitness levels. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 Come see your princess friends live on Facebook as they read day of. The rain date is June 11. stories, answer questions, sing songs and more. This will be a free, reoccurring event. Be sure to follow them on Facebook You can still shop for some of your favorite local food items to stay updated. This Monday, June 1 at 6 p.m. don’t miss The from the comfort of your own car with the Sunday Brunch Snow Queen. https://tinyurl.com/y9wf5kmp Farmers Market Drive-Through Edition. Pre-ordering is not required but is very much encouraged in order to reduce wait Enjoy all the gorgeous stars in the sky. Lowcountry Stargazers times for everyone (and also to help insure your order is ready will host Astronomy in the Park at Brittlebank Park, most and waiting for you and won’t sell out before you arrive). Wednesdays from sunset until 9 p.m. weather permitting. Thank you so much for your support! 11 a.m., June 7. Stop by after work or before dinner and see what the universe sundaybrunchfarmersmarket.com has to offer. Members will have a telescope or two set up, and will be available to answer your questions about the night sky. Registration is now open for CCPL’s Summer Reading All events are always free to the public. Lowcountrystar Program. -gazers.org

Parenting: How to safely take your kids to Charleston parks, pools, beaches, restaurants

By Sara Novak [email protected] Jun 2, 2020

I was thrilled when my son’s teacher said that it was time to letters onto lined paper. And more than that, a break from the give homeschooling a rest for the summer. sneaking suspicion that my attempts at bestowing knowledge on my child are failing miserably. “The kids need a break or when they return for the new year they’ll be burnt out,” she said. Of course, there will be learning, whether it’s counting the number of eggs my son haphazardly dumps into banana bread Those little words were like music to my ears. batter or naming the lizards that scurry across our backyard. But the weight of trying to single-handedly play teacher — A break from lesson planning and the sometimes tedious task that has lifted. of counting dry beans, sounding out words and scribbling

kids to Charleston parks— continued

And while playgrounds and spray play areas are currently closed in Charleston County, Dr. Fowler advises parents to wipe down community playground equipment before letting kids play on it as an extra precaution. Parents should also bring their own water to avoid using public water fountains.

Additionally, some public pools in the area are open under a limited capacity, many allowing lap swimmers with no use of locker rooms or play equipment.

According to guidance from DHEC, “Facilities should only allow 20 percent of normal occupancy or five people (staff and visitors) per 1,000 square feet of pool and deck area, Casey Walker searches for clams in the sand with her daugh- whichever is less.” Private pools and community pools may ter, Braylynn, 5, on a cloudy morning at Isle of Palms County Park on Wednesday, May 6, 2020. Isle of Palms removed their have their own set of rules. But in all cases, treat it like a park checkpoints, allowing access to the beach to non-residents. and stick to your own family unit. Don’t share floats or other File/Gavin McIntyre/Staff toys and, above all else, make sure kids are supervised.

Still, now that “school’s out,” parents like myself are left “Children need to be constantly monitored to avoid drowning, wondering what in the world are we to do with our children and again, social distancing,” says Dr. Fowler. all summer long. Yes, the Lowcountry is starting to return to And if you’re looking for the best place to take a dip, consider some sense of normalcy in the midst of COVID-19, with parks, that big salty body of water we’re so lucky to live right next to restaurants and beaches at least partially open. But as a par- in the Lowcountry. The Atlantic Ocean and the beaches that ent, when is it safe to venture back out again and, if you do, make up our coast can be a safe and idyllic place to take the what precautions should you take? kids this summer. Just be careful in crowded parking areas As families head back out to the parks reopened by The and near restaurants and other gathering places. Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission, it’s “The beach is also a great place to go because there’s lots of important to set ground rules, says Dr. Sandra Fowler, director space to play and it’s easier to avoid getting too close to other of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at the Medical people,” says Dr. Fowler. “But again, keep your distance and University of South Carolina. avoid lingering on crowded beach paths. Just keep moving.” “Play as a family unit and stay six feet away from others,” says As we move into the summer months, for your sanity and the Dr. Fowler. “Stay away from toys and play things that are not kids, finding places to play outside is key to peaceful your own.” coexistence. On the other hand, Dr. Fowler is more skeptical

kids to Charleston parks— continued

of getting back into the restaurant scene kids in tow. While outdoor dining with tables far enough apart is fine, she says that going inside the restaurant isn’t ideal right now.

“I’m not a fan of indoor dining at this time,” she says. “And I think that restaurant staff should be wearing a mask.”

As for my family of four, we’ll be doing everything we can to get outdoors. We venture out early in the morning before the beaches become crowded and the sun’s rays are too strong for my 4-month-old. We’re riding boogie boards, bikes and skateboards, swinging from rope swings and climbing magnolia trees. As for restaurants, we’re not there quite yet — although we couldn’t do without our regular take-out Kyle Karsten, visting from Charlotte, NC, plays with his son, haunts. Bear Karsten, in the surf Memorial Day weekend Saturday, May 23, 2020 on the Isle of Palms. Like everyone else, we’re doing our best to stay safe and sane. File/Grace Beahm Alford/Staff But even as days melt into one another, I still feel somehow lighter that summer is here.

There’s a sense of freedom in knowing that my kids don’t require every moment of their days to be planned, which is a good thing, because this homeschooling wannabe is fresh out of creative ideas.

June and July Programs and Events at your Charleston County Parks VISITORS EVENT CALENDAR

Program and event capacity is limited and subject to will enjoy wine and live music while experiencing the beauty of cancellation. Extra safety measures will be in place specific to this natural site. A commemorative wine glass is included with each event and program. Please visit CharlestonCounty- your admission. Food truck fare will be available for purchase Parks.com for details and to register. on site. Advance registration is required and tickets will be limited to 100. June Special Events Fee: $15 in advance only Ages: 21+ • Starlight Yoga Folly Beach County Park • Hops and Vines Thu, June 4, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. McLeod Plantation Historic Site The moon and stars enhance this flowing yoga class while sand Thur., June 25, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. serves as the classroom floor and crashing waves as the soundtrack. Participants will receive a special glow in the dark Explore beautiful McLeod Plantation Historic Site at Hops and prize. Open to all fitness levels. Rain date: Thursday, June 11. Vines! Enjoy wine, beer, and live music from Lane Doss while experiencing the beauty of this historic site. Interpreters will Fee: $8 Ages: 12 and up be on-site to illustrate McLeod's storied history. Admission • Hops and Vines includes 2 drink tickets. Additional drinks will be available for purchase on site, as well as food truck fare from Semilla and McLeod Plantation Historic Site Holy Rolly. Advanced registration is recommended as tickets Thur., June 11, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. will be limited to 100.

Explore beautiful McLeod Plantation Historic Site at Hops and Fee: $15 Ages: 21+ Vines! Enjoy wine, beer, and live music from Ward Buckheister JUNE PROGRAMS while experiencing the beauty of this historic site. Interpreters will be on-site to illustrate McLeod's storied history. Admission Ongoing Programs includes 2 drink tickets. Additional drinks will be available for purchase on site, as well as food truck fare from My Big Fat • Early Morning Bird Walks Greek Trailer and Life Raft Treats. Advanced registration is Caw Caw Interpretive Center required as tickets will be limited to 100. Wednesdays and Saturdays, June 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27, Fee: $15 in advance only Ages: 21+ 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. • Wine Down Wednesday Join us on one or more of our regular bird walks. Our trek Old Towne Creek County Park through many distinct habitats will allow us to view and discuss a variety of birds, butterflies, and other organisms. A Wed., June 17, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under. Come Wine Down your Wednesday and explore Old Towne Every Wednesday and Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Creek County Park, one of West Ashley's hidden gems. Guests Registration is not required. Participants are encouraged to

Event calendar — continued bring their own binoculars. Maximum, 10 participants. • Strokes and Maneuvers - Level 2

Fee: $9; free for Gold Pass holders James Island County Park

• Introduction to Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Sat, June 6, 1 – 3 p.m.

James Island County Park Focus on refining your skills in fun and challenging ways! Improve efficiency and understanding of fundamental strokes, Sat, June 6, 13, 20, 27, 10 a.m. - Noon and be introduced to more advanced techniques such as This fun and relaxed class will get you started with instruction bracing for support, edging the kayak, side slips, and rudders. on safety and the proper paddling technique that will allow Maximum, 3 participants you to progress comfortably at your own pace. Maximum, 3 Fee: $30 Ages: 16 and up participants • Kayak Trip Planning - Trip Fee: $30 Ages: 16 and up CCPRC Headquarters Daily Programs Sun, June 7, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. • Kayak Trip Planning - Classroom Only Learn how to safely implement your plans for paddling. We Off-Site Location will focus on tide, weather, and gear considerations before Fri, June 5, 6 – 9 p.m. going on the water. Participants will use information learned in the previous week's classroom session to plan for the trip. Learn how to safely plan your own trips for paddling. We will Maximum, 3 participants focus on tide, weather, and gear considerations before going on the water. The goal will be for the class to use information Fee: $55 Ages: 16 and up learned to plan a trip for the following weekend. Maximum, 3 • Bird Walk participants Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve Fee: $20 Ages: 16 and up Fri, June 12, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. • Kayak Quickstart This walk focuses on the incredibly diverse northeast end of James Island County Park Folly Island. Once the home of a Coast Guard station, this Sat, June 6, 10 a.m. - Noon Heritage Preserve protects maritime forest, beach, dune, and marsh habitats for wildlife. This site is a leader in number of Learn about the fun-filled sport of kayaking. During this 2-hour bird species seen in South Carolina. At this time of year, we hands-on informal program, our experienced instructors will hope to see songbirds, seabirds, and shorebirds such as show you how you can enjoy the local waterways and wildlife Painted Bunting, Caspian Tern, Wilson's Plover, and much from a sea kayak. Maximum, 3 participants more. Maximum, 9 participants Fee: $30 Ages: 16 and up Fee: $9 Ages: 12 and up

Event calendar — continued

• Homeschool in the Parks: The Struggle is Real • Nature Ramble

Palmetto Islands County Park Wannamaker County Park

Fri, June 12, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Sat, June 20, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Did you know there's a competition happening outside your Join a Master Naturalist instructor and see the natural window? Explore the world of competition in nature. Lean wonders of our parks in a new light. Discover plants and how and why animals compete and what happens when animals while learning about their connections to the world something new joins the neighborhood. Maximum, 9 around them and how that connectivity may circle back to participants you! Maximum, 9 participants

Fee: $9 Ages: At least 7 but less than 13 Fee: $9 Ages: 12 and up

• Alligator Adventure • Introduction to Kayaking

Caw Caw Interpretive Center James Island County Park

Sat, June 13, 9 - 11 a.m. Sat, June 20, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Join us as we search for alligators and separate fact from Learn a new sport comfortably and enjoyably. Using a variety fiction to learn why these large reptiles carry the special title of boats, this entry-level course teaches you the basic strokes of "keystone species." Maximum, 9 participants and skills to have fun on the water! Maximum, 3 participants

Fee: $12 Ages: 9 and up Fee: $55 Ages: 16 and up

• Intro to Climbing • Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Level 2

James Island County Park - Outdoor Zone James Island County Park

Sun, June 14, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Sat, June 20, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

There's a lot to learn about climbing. Getting your footing, Take the next steps in SUPing. We'll practice balance drills, learning the lingo, and starting out can be intimidating, but it improve stroke technique, and learn more safety skills. This doesn't have to be. In our Intro to Climbing class, you’ll receive fun class is a great prep for paddling in more challenging expert instruction on the basics of climbing, the opportunity to conditions. Maximum, 3 participants meet and learn with other new climbers, and an overview of Fee: $30 Ages: 16 and up our facility. This 90-minute class will help kick off your new adventure with a 1 to 9 instructor to student ratio and small • Dawn Patrol Adult SUP Surf Camp group and partner work. Instruction takes place on both ropes Folly Beach County Park and boulders, and the class will include your gear rental, too! Maximum, 3 participants Tue, June 23 - Fri, June 26 6:30 - 8 a.m.

Fee: $20 Ages: 14+ Greet the mornings with a surf session led by a certified instructor. Hone your skills and appreciation for the sport and

culture over the course of a week. But be careful, this could be 35

Event calendar — continued habit forming! Maximum, 3 participants Sun, June 28, 8 a.m. – Noon

Fee: $165 Ages: 16 and up Treat yourself to some fun by learning to ride the waves in a kayak. We'll provide whitewater (short boats) and sit-on-top • Beginner Birding kayaks with a trained professional for you to learn fundamen- James Island County Park tal surfing skills, important wave/ocean dynamics, etiquette, and safety. You'll come away with a basic understanding of Thu, June 25, 9 a.m. – Noon surfing that will give you the confidence to continue catching Even the best birders were "fledglings" at one time. Join a waves and grow as a kayak surfer. Maximum, 3 participants naturalist to learn birding essentials, like proper gear and basic Fee: $65 Ages: 16 and up terminology. We'll then take a walk to spot and identify some feathered friends. Maximum, 9 participants. July Special Events

Fee: $12 Ages: 12 and up • Starlight Yoga • Introduction to Canoeing Folly Beach County Park

James Island County Park Thur., July 2, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Sat, June 27, 1 – 3 p.m. The moon and stars enhance this flowing yoga class while sand This class will cover basic strokes, safety, and technique in a serves as the classroom floor and crashing waves as the relaxing and enjoyable environment. Maximum, 3 participants soundtrack. Participants will receive a special glow in the dark prize. Open to all fitness levels. Rain date Thursday, July 9. Fee: $30 Ages: 16 and up Fee: $8 Ages: 12 and up • SUP the Surf Zone • Inclusive Swim Night Folly Beach County Park Whirlin’ Waters Sun, June 28, 8 a.m. – Noon Sat., July 11, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. And Sat., July 18, 6:30 – 8:30 Surf SUP! Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf in this popular and p.m. historic pastime. Join a trained professional and learn fundamental surfing skills, important wave/ocean dynamics, People with special needs and their families are invited to an board/paddle design, etiquette, and safety. You'll come away unforgettable night at your waterpark! Enjoy the lazy river, with a basic understanding of surfing that will give you the race down the slides, and take a dip in the pool. confidence to continue catching waves and grow as aSUP Fee: $9 (2 or under are free) Ages: all ages surfer. Maximum, 3 participants Advance registration required for many programs. Call- 843 Fee: $65 Ages: 16 and up 795-4386 or visit www.charlestoncountyparks.com to register. • Introduction to Surf Kayaking Many programs require that a minimum number of participants be met. Folly Beach County Park

In response to an email notice pausing the Gold Pass membership during Covid19 shutdown, our customers wrote: “Thank you. We will renew before then. It’s been a joy having it. Thank you.”

“Thanks – we really appreciate the great parks here and the super good communications. Y’all are doing a great job that makes this a good county for everyone.”

“Thank you very much!! “

“Y’all are the best. Thank you! I so miss the waterparks. Can’t wait for next summer already . “

“Thank you!! I was wondering about that! I will definitely be renewing in September! Thanks, again.”

“Thank you so much for extending our Gold Pass. That was such a kind gesture from Charleston County Parks :) We are grateful for you all and the amazing parks that you provide! Keep up the GREAT work!! “

“Thank you for doing that. It’s most appreciated.“

Nice venue, plenty of room for social distancing, pet-friendly

Wine Down Wednesday Participant – Old Towne Creek County Park

I liked the limited crowd. The location is kid friendly and beautiful.

Wine Down Wednesday Participant – Old Towne Creek County Park

The opportunity for a socially distanced outdoor fitness class in such a beautiful location was so needed, especially right now when so many aren't comfortable going to gyms or studios. Thank you for offering this!

Summer Solstice Yoga Participant – James Island County Park

Liked how social distancing happened, the instructors led a balanced class and all employees at the park we interacted with were knowledgeable and helpful.

Summer Solstice Yoga Participant – James Island County Park

The counselors were well trained and prepared, handled the new guidelines very well, and our daughter learned so much and had an excellent time at camp.

Explorers Camp Participant – Palmetto Islands County Park

The instructor was very informative and supportive.

Introduction to Kayaking Participant – James Island County Park

Thank you so much for an enjoyable birdwatching trip today. I learned so much from you and I really enjoy your very positive presentation style. I’m so excited about using eBird and iNaturalist apps now.

Early Morning Bird Walk Participant – Caw Caw Interpretive Center

Swim For It

The Summer season is in full swing, and many of our employees are helping to raise money for the Swim For It campaign! The campaign is designed to generate awareness and support for the Charleston County Parks Foundation by soliciting a small donation at either gates of each waterpark and WCAC, or at the concession areas at the beach parks. The donations collected during this campaign will go toward drowning prevention initiatives for the Foundation. After week 2 of the Swim For It Campaign, we have raised $2,057.46

Week 2 totals:

Whirlin’ Waters Team- $533.96 (Top earner Maranda Pyatt $213.82)

Splash Island Team- $186.05 (Top earner Talia Zoccoli-Mercado $70.50)

Splash Zone Team- $147.63 (Top earner Jade Bullock $91.63)

West County Team- $2.97 (Top earner Morgan Bowie $2.52)

Beachwalker Team- $5.00 (Top earner Lauren Keane $5.00)

Folly Team- $429.70 (Top earner Elizabeth Homer $157.40)

IOP Team- $353.78 (Top earner Emma Drew $252.09)

Congratulations to each weekly winner who will receive a $10 gift card and a chance to win $100 for being the top performer for the season per park. Excellent job, keep up the good work!

Thank you for the support!

Foundation Supporter Highlight

The Memorial Reforestation Program offers a unique memorial program to honor and remember your friends and family by contributing to the ongoing reforestation of the Charleston County Parks. Donations allow for the periodic planting of a variety of trees in the county park system, and plantings are not designated with signage or plaques. Donors have the opportunity to honor the birth of a child or express sympathy upon the death of friends or relatives. For each memorial contribution, a card representing the occasion is mailed to notify the recipient family of the gift. Mark and Phyllis Malpas from Mount Pleasant, SC love the Charleston County Parks and continuously support the Charleston County Parks Foundation by honoring loved ones through the Memorial Reforestation Program.

They have donated $250 since 2018. Here’s what Phyllis Malpas had to say about the program,

“We love the Memorial Tree Reforestation Program and have been utilizing it for many years. Since you came on board, I really have appreciated your notes and commentary. Please widely promote this program. The people who receive these letters from the County Park and from us, are always touched and always respond with such a big thank you. It is easy, it makes a contribution and it is life itself.

Also, the program can be used for so many occasions from birth, through life, through memorials to the deceased. And it would certainly bring some needed funds to the park system. We love the parks in Charleston. I am from Cleveland, Ohio where they also have a robust park system. Make it easy for folks to find this program, submit their funds and honor family and friends. Everyone has a story to tell. How about trees for those serving during Covid 19, or those who have passed away. Everyone has a story.

This week, I will submit another donation. A good friend just lost her Mom, only 50 years old. Led a challenging and difficult life. I think her daughter will appreciate it. An ode to life. I do remember one quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. “Friendship is a sheltering tree.” Seems perfect.”

Virtual Fitness We recently wrapped up the virtual Outdoor Bike Challenge. Competitors biked for two weeks straight to see who could cover the most mileage. We were thrilled to see all of our past participants from our walking and running competitions switch gears to biking! We are happy to provide this sense of motivation and community during these uncertain times.

Summer Solstice Yoga

We celebrated the official start to the summer at James Island County Park with Summer Solstice Yoga on June 18. Participants came to unwind, relax, and enjoy the open air on their mats in the grassy meadow while nama-staying 6’ apart.

Save the Date

Mark your calendars! Starfish Swim School begins in July at West County Aquatic Center. We are excited to see all of our minnows again this summer!

Interpretation programming returns to the Parks

The month of June marked a significant step for the Interpretation team. Like others in the Recreation Division, Interpretation resumed - in person programming across multiple content areas and locations. The resumption of programs required planning, virtual meetings, and research to determine how to safely interact with the public and each other.

Some, like the Cultural History Interpreters, completely restructured McLeod tours to accommodate smaller group sizes per CDC recommendations and created program zones that identify physical distancing protocols. Others, like Education and Natural History interpreters, also followed CDC recommendations and adjusted program length, routes, and content to reduce close contact among individuals. All programmers wear masks when physical distancing cannot be maintained and do not use shared props or equipment.

Response to these new measures has been positive, and the public continues to want to participate in tours. The majority of the Early Morning Bird walks at Caw Caw have filled to the maximum registration. For the week of June 15, McLeod tours saw 435 participants, compared to 552 seen in 2019 and 496 in 2018. These numbers suggest that the temporary shutdown did not dramatically impact interest in programming. Some awareness may be attributed to the significant interpretive presence on CCPRC’s social media feeds during stay at home orders. Research also shows that institutional commitment to safety encourages people to visit a site, and for this reason the time spent creating protocols was an investment on future engagement by park guests.

The Birds of Prey were called to IOP County Park to rescue a baby Heron that had fallen out of its nest In June. They contacted a tree company with a bucket truck who said they would love to help with the rescue since the nest was well out of the reach of a ladder. The natural barrier around the nest was too thick for the person in the bucket to reach the nest without disturbing the other babies. The Birds of Prey representative took the baby Heron back to their facility to nurse it until it has grown enough to be released to live in its’ natural habitat.

Johns Island County Park staff have observed a peaked interest in its Disc Golf Course during June. Attendance has increased as the outdoor temperature has risen in June.

What a great way to social distance from others while getting fresh air, exercise and fun!

We had a busy May and June getting all lifeguards trained in a month. We usually spend April, May and part of June training our 70 Ocean Rescue and 225 waterpark/pool Lifeguards.

These were the trainings held from May 14th – June 24th, along with assistance from Parks:

 Surf School for Ocean Rescue (16 hours) – 2 schools (32 hours total) - 70 lifeguards

 Rookie School for Ocean Rescue (48 hours) – 24 lifeguards

 Medical Responder (40 hours) – 2 classes (80 hours total) 40 lifeguards, supervisors and fulltime staff

 Medical Responder recertification (16 hours)– 2 classes (32 hours total) 60 lifeguards and supervisors

 Waterpark/pool trainings (16 hours each training) – 7 classes – 225 lifeguards

 Swim Lesson Instructor training (8 hours) – 10 Instructors

We were able to start guarding at the beach on Memorial Day weekend and on June 15th at the waterparks/pool.

We received our first lifeguard audit from Starfish Aquatics for our waterparks and pool. We achieved 5-Star status at Splash Island and Splash Zone and 4-star at West County and Whirlin’ Waters. A 3-star award is average, with 5-star being the highest achievement. This was the first ever lifeguard audit for West County Aquatic Center.

Eagle Scout, Griffin Honig, built nine duck boxes for Laurel Hill as one of his requirements for Eagle Scout.

Total Calls In: 10,483

Average Talk Time: 2.15

Average Wait Time: 0.17

Attendance

YTD 1920

YTD 1819YTD

YTD 1920

YTD 1819YTD

YTD 1920

YTD 1819YTD

Variance

Campsites

139,257

166,050

-15,686

-26,793

25,971

41,657

-38%

-16%

PICP

8 4 80% 44% 68%

83%

Cottages

-108,034

639,054

747,088

-31,728

44,601

76,329

-42%

-14%

55%

JICP

-128,631

148,948

288,395

417,026

-54,117

Marina

94,831

-36%

-31%

WCP

92%

-101,531

165,403

266,934

25,192

TOTAL

23,909

1,283

-38%

CAW

27,644

27,074

JoICP

570

YTD 1920

YTD 1819YTD

Variance

Vehicles

489,125

522,775

-33,650

FB Pier

-6%

MP Pier MP

244,361

264,872

-20,511

26,730

Total Facility Attendance 1920 vs. Attendance1819 Total 1920 Facility

26,125

BWP

-8%

605

40,308

68,547

45,384

68,606

-5,076

FBCP

-11%

BWP

-59

-10,937

-31,455

70,073

66,847

81,010

98,301

FBCP

-14%

-32%

IOP

137,111

152,519

180,398

214,891

-15,408

-34,493

TOTAL

-10%

-16%

IOP

Bulow

-1142

-32%

2445

3587

Laurel Hill

-1,863

1,472

3,335

-56%

Old Towne

-1345

-40%

2031

3376

McLeod

25,390

28,902

-3,512

-12%

*began tracking WCP Trail & Meggett in May 2020 May *began in Meggett TrailWCP & tracking

Attendance

YTD 1920YTD

YTD 1819

Variance

98,232

19,517

78,716

LIHP

25%

W North Trail*

24,570

23,384

1,186

all facilities continued all facilities

877

SK8

---

Meggett*

WCAC

7,266

241

---

Stono River Stono

2,345,838

2,691,892

-346,054

15,613

TOTAL

15,613

-13%

--- 0

46 Digital Marketing Summary

WEBSITE ANALYTICS Jun 1, 2020 - Jun 30, 2020 ▼

Visits Unique visitors Pageviews Bounce Rate Searches 167,077 148,704 471,938 43.03% 2,826

Trended Visits (by Month) Trended Visits (Fiscal Year-to-Date)

Visits Visits

8K 15K

10K 6K 5K

4K 0 Jun 1 Jun 6 Jun 11 Jun 16 Jun 21 Jun 26 Jul 1, 2019 Oct 31, 2019 Mar 1, 2020 Aug 31, 2019 Dec 31, 2019 May 1, 2020 Top Landing Pages Top Referral Sites

Label Unique Pageviews ▼ Label Visits ▼

1. Charleston County Parks and Recreati… 60,525 1. m.facebook.com 3,070

2. Camping & Lodging | Charleston Coun… 24,518 2. shibumishade.com 2,453

3. Whirlin' Waters Adventure Water… 18,482 3. www.charlestoncvb.com 1,243

EMAIL MARKETING

Total Emails Sent Open Rate Bounce Rate Unsubscribe Rate 141,282 41.66% 1.75% 0.07%

Campaign Name Sent ▼ Open Rate Click Through Rate Bounce Rate Unsubscribe Rate

1. June 6-27 32,124 32.5% 11.8% 2.4% 0.1%

2. Waterparks Reopening 32,102 35.8% 14.8% 2.4% 0.1%

3. June 24-July 8 32,062 29.9% 13% 2.5% 0.1%