KICA Core Functions ( Continued From Previous Page )
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May 2017 July 2018 5
KICA Core Functions ( Continued From Previous Page )
Our World is a series of free lectures and discussion on various topics , including history , culture , finance , current events , international affairs and much more . These talks are normally held twice a month from October to May at the Sandcastle . The department also hosts nationally known authors for presentations and book signings . Popular author Mary Alice Monroe has been a frequent visitor at Kiawah Reads .
Recreation staff are always looking for creative ways to delight and entertain . There are many opportunities to socialize and meet new neighbors at events like Sunset Music on the Creek , the KICA Oyster Roast , Celebrate Kiawah and the biannual Lowcountry Art and Artisan Showcase .
all of KICA ’ s available spaces , and can offer event planning support if requested . The Sandcastle includes a full caterer ’ s kitchen , and is the only island event space where you can select your own caterer .
Recreation and Fitness One of many exciting updates that come with The Sandcastle renovations is an improvement to member fitness areas . With new state-of-the-art fitness equipment , the first floor will now feature panoramic ocean views from the gym and the multipurpose Oceanview room . Wellness programs include fitness classes , yoga , Zumba , strength , weight and aerobic training , aqua aerobics and more . Susan Lozier of Total Fitness will continue offering fitness classes and personal training on-site , as she has done for 18 years .
Outdoor recreational programming includes swimming , paddle sports and boating . Under the paddle sports umbrella , contractor Tidal Trails offers surfing , kayaking , paddle boarding and more . Kayak storage at the Cinder Creek facility is some of the most sought after space on the island . Visit kica . us / fitness for fitness offerings and water sport activities .
Community Clubs and Groups Community clubs and groups are a great way for members to stay active and involved . These groups are hosted throughout KICA ’ s facilities , depending on their needs . In a typical fall week , Beachwalker Center and The Sandcastle might host photography , gardening , Bible study , bridge and book clubs , just to name a few . See a list of these groups at kica . us / groups .
There are also instructional classes introducing members to new interests or providing fun opportunities . For example ,
Meeting Daily Challenges With A Smile One of the challenges the department juggles is the demand for space for all the programs and community uses . Among the many reasons the board acquired Beachwalker Center was to provide additional meeting space . When The Sandcastle reopens , some groups will return there , and others will remain at Beachwalker Center , which offers enhanced storage , visual and audio features that benefit some groups . Another challenge is staffing for a seven-day weekly operation . Recreation closes only on Easter , Thanksgiving , Christmas and New Year ’ s Day . Despite such challenges , the Recreation team loves being the “ fun providers .”
The Recreation Department also acts in ways members never see . During the past three years of floods and storms , Recreation staff supported the departments working on island recovery . They greeted the tired workers , prepared and served meals , and bolstered their spirits - essentially organizing a respite for those who were working nearly around the clock in those initial days after storms . Narmour and her team , along with her husband , shopped , while the rest of the team set up tables and buffets . According to Narmour , “ The power was out . Resources were slim . Our coworkers were exhausted with heavy , wet work . We did what came naturally in support of each other .”
While crises are rare , the Recreation Department offers support to KICA members on a daily basis . Narmour says , “ My staff is hardworking , dedicated , innovative and creative . In addition to providing all these opportunities , they also attend to a wide array of member needs , and field questions outside the scope of the department . Member Services is a key role of the team , and they are all outstanding at providing that service .”
Note : As with previous articles in the Core Services series , KICA is interested in member feedback and opinions . However , due to the timing of the Sandcastle renovations , the brief poll on KICA Recreation is being delayed until the facility has fully reopened and members have had time to experience this vastly improved member amenity . Thank you in advance for your input .