More than 170 residents sign up for District Five Golden Passes

September 3, 2014

IRMO, SC – Lexington-Richland School District Five issued Golden Passes to more than 170 residents during a two-day sign-up event last month.

The permanent photo identification card for residents that are age 60 or older provides free admission into most athletic and cultural arts events in District Five, excluding playoff games. District officials say the passes help encourage older community members to be involved and active in district-sponsored events and activities.

“This is a small way to thank our senior community, many of whom volunteer in our schools each year,” said Superintendent Dr. Stephen Hefner.  “The Golden Pass program also is a great way to bring community members of all ages together in support of our students and schools. Our students love having community members attend school events and activities, and we are so grateful for all of those who applied for Golden Passes this year.”

District Five has offered its Golden Pass program for more than two decades. This year’s passes were issued to 173 residents on Thursday, Aug. 28 and Friday, Aug. 29 at the district administration building. Golden Passes are lifetime passes and do not need to be renewed. For husband and wife, Patrick and Patti Handel, the passes will mean more frequent attendance at school events.

“It certainly does make it a lot easier to be a frequent visitor at the sporting events when you have a Golden Pass,” Patti Handel said. “We also have grandchildren …. And as they get older, we’d like to be able to support their activities. So, it is a very nice (and) very generous benefit to the residents in District Five.”

Patrick Handel added, “I coach sports teams for ICRC (Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission). As some of my boys get a little bit older and go to high school, I want to be able to get into some of the games and events to watch them and support them as they compete on the next level.”

Eligible residents who were not able to attend the August sign-up event may apply for temporary passes by calling District Five’s Public Information Office at 476-8118.

Golden-Passes

Patrick and Patti Handel show their new District Five Golden Passes at a sign-up event on Aug. 29. Lexington-Richland School District Five issued Golden Passes to more than 170 residents during a two-day sign-up event last month.