RENDERING OF ELGIN COMMUNITY CENTER
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News From KC Council By: Councilman Derek Shoemake
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Letters to the Editor The Elgin News P.O. Box 152 Elgin, SC 29045
Cate Goff, Editor (803) 513-5108
I am excited that Elgin has officially broken ground on a new community center at Potter Community Park. The center will be adjacent to the current park, which means the open space, walking trail, and picnic areas will be unaffected (other than during construction). So no worries fellow Catfish Stomp fans! This milestone represents a significant achievement for our town and a testament to the years-long dedication and vision of our community and its leaders. I am also honored that County Council was able to play a small role in making this center a reality. The community center will serve as a focal point for gatherings, events, and recreational activities, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and unity among our neighbors, The center holds boundless potential to enhance the quality of life for Elgin residents in numerous ways. From classes and youth programs to cultural events and educational workshops, the center will offer a diverse array of activities tailored to meet the interests and needs of our community. It will serve as a space where friendships are forged, talents are nurtured, and memories are made for generations to come. Additionally, the center will serve as a venue for civic engagement and community empowerment. Whether hosting town hall meetings, organizing volunteer initiatives, or facilitating neighborhood gatherings, the space will foster meaningful connections and dialogue among residents, further strengthening the fabric of our community. As we eagerly anticipate the completion of the community center, I encourage all Elgin residents to stay informed and engaged in the process. Your input and participation are invaluable as we work together to ensure that the center reflects the wants and needs of our diverse community. Particularity impressive is the tenacity and ingenuity our local leaders brought to bear to make this center happen. They held countless meetings with community members and stakeholders to determine the best fit for Elgin. They ensured quality builders and architects would be available for design and construction. Most importantly, they found funding for this project without imposing any fees and taxes on local residents. In short order, Elgin will have an amazing addition to its already outstanding park. This is growing the right way! Congratulations to the Town of Elgin, and thank you to the Elgin Mayors and Town Councils past and present who made this vision a reality. As always, if you have questions or concerns, please text or call me at 803-427-4929, email me at derek.shoemake@kershaw.sc.gov, or visit my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/councilmanshoemake (where I also share updates on County business).
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The Elgin News builds community and brings people together by informing everyone about local businesses, services, schools organizations, government, activities, events and other information useful for becoming involved. It helps those who live and work in Elgin to get to know each other as people and to become friends. The Elgin News accepts no responsibility for the contents of the advertisements or articles. Advertisements and articles are accepted with the full responsibility of the advertiser for worth and accuracy. Readers who wish to comment or have concerns regarding advertisements contained herein are urged to phone the Elgin News at (803) 513-5108 or (803) 466-4604. The Elgin News will discontinue accepting advertising from firms of alleged dubious reputation. Rates are net - discount agreements must be reflected on the publication order. Invoices due on receipt. Tearsheets and proofs available upon request. Advertising setup, changes and publication verification are provided at no charge. 15% agency comm. is 30-days firm. Photography charges negotiable. By-line articles are the property of the contributor and may not be reproduced without permission.
The Elgin News, PO Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045 · (803) 513-5108 Cate Goff, Editor · Email: elginnews@gmail.com
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February 9, 2024
From The Chief 's Desk Ok Elgin, I want to brag a little bit on our Officers. I want to let Elgin know which Officers received awards in 2023. We have several awards throughout the year, some are internal and other awards come from outside organizations. First, we have quarterly Officer awards. These are internal awards based on good attendance, no complaints, consistent work ethic and actions that go above and
At left, Elgin Officer of the Year, Randy Bass was honored during the February Elgin Town Council Meeting.
beyond their standard duties. Officer Randy Bass received the First Officer of the Quarter Award. Officer Bradley Branham received the second, it was a tie between Officers Alex Picciuolo and David Bailey for third and Chief Alan Anders Officer Joseph Dover received the fourth quarter award for 2023. Also, the Optimus Club awarded Sgt. Chris DeLong their Officer of the year, David Bailey received Officer of the year from the VWF, Lugoff Post, and Randy Bass received Officer of the year for 2023 from Elgin Police Dept. All our Officer are great and try very hard to serve the Elgin community, so please keep us in your prayers and feel free to walk up and introduce yourself anytime you see one of us. Thank you for always supporting us Elgin.
Elgin Police Incident Reports
Disorderly Conduct: On 01-24-2024, Officer received two calls from dispatch in reference to a white female refusing to get out of the way of traffic, walking down Main St. Office then observed an older white female matching the description, yelling at cars on Main St. in front of Dollar General, in the Town Limits of Elgin. Office made contact with Subject, who was yelling about the store was not open and she wanted to go in the store. Subject was on the side walk in front of the store yelling and cursing so the store manager would not open the store. After Subject started to yelling again about a person "Caroline" and no one was with her, Office tried to calm her down but she still was mad and cursing at the world. Office arrested Subject for Public disorderly conduct. Receiving Stolen Goods: On 02/01/2024, Officers noticed a white Chevy Impala that we received a FLOCK hit on earlier today at 2507 Main St. (Circle K) in the Town Limits of Elgin. I ran the SC tag through dispatch and confirmed it was the same one received on the FLOCK hit. Dispatch advised that the tag came back to a green Chevy Colbolt and was stolen. I then went into the store and made contact with Subject who stated he was the driver of the white Impala. I informed Subject that the tag on his vehicle came back to a stolen car. Subject stated that the car belongs to his roommate and they just got it back from being worked on. At that point We took the tag and issued a citation for Receiving Stolen Goods. Shoplifting: On 01-29-2024, the Manager of IGA saw a black male pushing a buggy full of chicken (valued $100.00) out the front door of the store without paying and get into a vehicle that was waiting on him. Watts said the vehicle was a black Altima with SC tag and took a left out of the parking lot. Officer arrived ran the tag through dispatch an it did not go to an Altima. Manager will get the video of the incident and get it to EPD. Larceny: On 01-05-2024, reference. case # 24-0100016, the owner of Gyromania, saw the same vehicle that took the items on 01-05-2024 pull behind Dollar General and called 911 and blocked the truck in with his truck until Officer arrived. Officer met with Cornelius and the subject Larry R. McCullough at the back of the store. At that time McCullough did admit to taking the items earlier this month. McCullough stated to Officer that he thought it was part of the trash because it was behind the dumpster. Officer gave McCullough a UTT for petit larceny and McCullough did bring the items back. Court date is 02-22-2024. Driving Under The Influence (1st) / No SCDL: On January 27th, Officer February 9, 2024
initiated a traffic stop on a silver in color Toyota Rav near the intersection of Main St / Pine St which is located within the boundaries of the Town of Elgin (Kershaw County). The vehicle came to a stopping point in the parking lot of O'Reily's. Prior to making contact with the driver, the driver had opened the driver door and was exiting the vehicle. Officer then made contact with the driver, and stated the reason for the stop, then requested his license, registration and insurance information. The driver showed me two tickets back in December 2023. The driver was unable to produce a valid drivers license, but was able to produce a registration and insurance information. Officer could visually see a case of alcohol (beer) in the passenger seat and two individual beer cans as well. The passenger floor board had liquid in it, which smelled like alcohol. The driver was identified as Subject. Officer asked the driver to step out of the vehicle, which he did without any further incident. Once Subject was out of the vehicle, Officer had step to the hood of my patrol vehicle. Due to the language barrier, both myself and Subject used our phones for google translate. Subject was asked if he had been drinking, which he responded with "two beers at lunch". Officer asked him how long ago was lunch, which he responded with "30 minutes ago". Officer asked him if he would consent to a set of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, which he stated he would. The HGN test was explained to Subject, which he understood. During the test, Officer observed a noticeable amount of nystagmus in both eyes. During the Walk and Turn instructional phase of the test, Subject missed heel to toe, counted wrong number of steps, turned inappropriately and used arms as balance. During the One Leg Stand test, Subject used arms as balance, swayed back and forth and hopped. Due to the clues that Officer observed during the SFST, Officer determined that Subject was materially and appreciably impaired. Subject was handcuffed behind his back, cuffs were checked for proper fit and double locked. He was then placed in the back rear passenger seat of patrol vehicle without any further incident. A asked dispatch to get next on rotation for a tow, which Eddie Roberts confirmed that he would be enroute. Subject was transported to KCDC where he was offered a breathalyzer, which he consented to. The sample that was provided by Subject was .13 BAC. He was jailed on the following charges: NO SC DL / DUI 1st .10 less than .16 /He was also given a warning for failure to maintain lane. He was then turned over to KCDC personnel. He was explained his charges, court date, time and location, which he understood. My BWC was activated throughout this incident and will be uploaded as soon as possible.
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February: This, That and More By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Whether it is going to snow or not is my weather question for today, February 9th. It is the 40th day of 2024, the second month of the year - an election year for over half the countries in our world. February is primary month in SC for our country’s 47th national president. South Carolina has received around the clock media coverage especially since former Gov. Nikki Haley is running against former president Donald Trump in the Republican Primary Feb. 25. President Joe Biden won the Feb. 3 SC Democratic Primary. Since the Groundhog did not see its shadow here that means we will have an early spring. Over in European countries the date is known as National Hedgehog Day. Do you think it has been a harsh cold winter? It’s been cold for a few days causing us to pull out the winter coats, but also, we have seen others out wearing shorts and flip flops on 70 plus days! I think our chance for snow has passed by this February; however, I would be delighted to be wrong. The Mardi Gras season begins today. It has been celebrated for over 300 years in Mobile, AL and in New Orleans for over 250 years. Mardi Gras is a way of life with over 408 million dollars spent between Thanksgiving and Ash Wednesday at these festivals. There will be over 70 formal balls and 40 parades with at least one million visitors celebrating carnival time. I researched the topic of Mardi Gras and learned that the tourists who select New Orleans are looking for a party atmosphere while those who visit Mobile are looking for family friendly time. There was a quote in Southern Living magazine that said, “The carnival is our greatest living tradition. Most southern cities have three seasons: sum-
mer, hunting, and football, but for Mobile, New Orleans, and major cities along the Gulf Coast it's Mardi Gras time! This week will be filled with special events, observances, and commemorations throughout our world. Sunday night at 6:30 PM, millions of TV sets will be tuned to the Super Bowl to watch the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs play. I like to watch the commercials, while some fans enjoy the halftime or pregame activities and entertainment. Would you believe I attended my first Super Bowl party Jan. 12, 1969, and ate lasagna for the first time? It was Super Bowl III, and Joe Namath surprised the world when the New York Jets defeated the Baltimore Colts 16-7. I remember being sad because I had to return to college to finish my last semester that next week. I remember some of the discussion that night was not all about fun and football, but how badly the Viet Nam War was going for our country. I had friends who did not return, so maybe that is why I remember the sadness and seriousness and associate it with the Super Bowl. I have never attended another Super Bowl party, but I have eaten lasagna. Ash Wednesday happens 47 days before Easter and marks the first day of Lent, a time for prayer and fasting. The Ash cross on worshipers’ foreheads symbolizes Jesus’s sacrifice for our sins. Valentine's Day and Ash Wednesday are this week on Feb. 14. It is truly a day of expressing love and faith. What else is special about February? It is Black History Month, American Heart Month and Library Lovers Month. In New York City, tomorrow February 10 kicks off Fashion Week. I have seen videos of models walking the runway, and I have heard that there is a website where you can “Rent the Runway” clothes, but I have never seen any outfit to attract my interest. There are many other special days and memories which occur in February that I will reflect on in our next issue. But for now, do not forget Monday Feb. 12 is our 16th President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday and Feb. 22 is our first President George Washington’s birthday. We do not celebrate their birthdays until Feb. 17, the third Monday which is Presidents’ Day, a federal holiday. What does this mean? It is a long weekend get away!
Mr. Lugoff-Elgin 2024 Named
Above, congratulations to Mr. LE 2024 winners! From left: Mr. Congeniality Award - Marquez Tantype (awarded by Austin Branham, former Mr. Congeniality - far right); Miss Sweetheart - Savannah Medlin; 1st Runner Up - Griffin Proctor; Mr. LE 2024 Watson Harvley; 2nd Runner Up & Mr. Hunk, Cole Whitehouse, and Austin Branham, former Mr. Congeniality. Top Seven included: Watson Harvley, Griffin Proctor, Cole Whitehouse, Craig Jones, Elijiah Lawson, Wesley May and Landon Altman February 9, 2024 4
February 9, 2024
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Elgin Breaks Ground On Community Center
A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Elgin Community Center on Monday, February 5th, marking the official beginning of a project years in the making. It all began with Mayor Paul Grooms in the late 90s or early 2000s, who had a vision of a community center when the town purchased the land that is now Potter Community Park. This idea was expanded upon over the years by subsequent Mayors Pete James, Brad Hanley and Melissa Emmons. Now the dream is becoming reality, with the 2500 sq. ft. facility set to be completed in September of this year. In addition to the Elgin mayors and Elgin Town Council, the community center was made possible by the efforts of many others. "This project is possible due to funding from the State of South Carolina Parks, Recreation and Tourism, Kershaw County, ARPA Funds, and strategic planning/budgeting by Elgin Town Council," says Mayor Melissa Emmons. "Senator Thomas McElveen spearheaded this endeavor and Representative Ben Connell took the lead with Kershaw County and Councilman Derek Shoemake also joining in to complete the process." Former Mayor and current Council Member Brad Hanley appreciates the homage to Elgin's railroad history, as well as his own personal history. "It will be nice see a new visually appealing structure, with a railroad theme, that commemorates Blaney's railroad history, near the center of the park and know we and our friends and colleagues made it happen," says Hanley. "I grew up in a railroad town (Branchville SC, home to the oldest railroad junction in the world) so I was drawn to the architectural rendering the Blaney-
Elgin Museum team created, which had the railroad freight depot look and we fully embraced that theme and somewhat modeled our design after it, that recognizes the railroad history of Blaney." At one point, a separate Blaney-Elgin Museum was planned, but that will now be incorporated into the Elgin Community Center. Mayor Emmons is excited about the possibilities the new structure will bring to Elgin and the West Wateree community. "The 2500 sq. ft. facility that will consist of a large community room for events, a catering kitchen, restrooms, and the Blaney/Elgin Museum," says Mayor Emmons. "It will be the first indoor venue available to the West Wateree area other than your schools and churches. I feel it will advance our area to a new and exciting level as far as recruiting new businesses and will now allow our residents to stay in the county when looking for event rentals." Council Member Dana Sloan has been instrumental in the project, and is excited about this addition to Potter Park. "I am filled with such a multifaceted joy as we inch closer to the completion of this next phase at Potter Community Park," says Sloan. "I am so excited to know that we will soon have a beautiful facility that can be used to serve our population in a variety of ways. I am very proud to see how many people have come together over the years, working behind the scenes, using their strengths and talents to pour into not only this community center, but the park as a whole. And while I feel joy, excitement, and pride, I also am beyond grateful to see the town of Elgin continuing to develop the park which honors the memory of the late Deputy Chris Potter and his family."
Above: The 2500 sq. ft. Elgin Community Center will consist of a large community room for events, a catering kitchen, restrooms, and the Blaney/Elgin Museum.
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Camden High School held their annual Miss Gold & Black and Jr. Miss Gold & Black pageants last weekend.
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Pictured above (left to right): Miss Junior Allison Corbett; 2024 Miss Gold & Black Carmen Scott; Miss Senior Avery Younghans; Miss Freshman Hailey Scott; 2024 Jr. Miss Gold & Black Riley Grace Burch and Miss Sophomore Kelsey Harrelson. Photo courtesy Johnny Deal.
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Food Lion Manager Philp Named Director of Wins National Award Special Services for KCSD
Isaac Smalls, store manager of the Elgin Food Lion, was named Food Lion’s 2023 Ralph W. Ketner Store Manager Excellence Award winner. Smalls was selected from a group of more than 1,100 store managers serving their neighbors across Food Lion’s 10-state operating area. Named after one of Food Lion’s founders, the Ralph W. Ketner Store Manager Excellence Awards recognize and honor exceptional store managers who enrich the lives of Food Lion’s customers, associates and the communities they serve. “I am truly honored to receive this honor and represent the Southern Division. It gives me the ultimate sense of pride and accomplishment,” said Smalls. “No matter where your journey begins, strive to be the best at what you're doing, as bigger and better opportunities will await you here at Food Lion.” Isaac joined Food Lion in 2008 as a Bagger and has held multiple roles leading up to Store Manager - now leading a dedicated team of nearly 95 associates. Isaac believes an exceptional Store Manager is a leader who listens, communicates effectively, leads by example, possesses the ability to adapt to change and brings out the best in others. He is also passionate about being able to provide the local community with adequate nutrition every day. He believes a successful life starts with the nutrients that Food Lion provides. He and his staff have partnered with the local sheriff ’s department, local food banks and NAACP of Columbia.
KCSD Superintendent Dr. Harrison Goodwin announces the appointment of Dr. Ashley Philp to the position of Director of Special Services effective February 19, 2024. Philp replaces Tarry McGovern who is retiring. Philp joined KCSD as the Special Services Coordinator in July of 2023 with nineteen years of experience as a school psychologist and district administrator in Midlands area public schools. She earned her Ph.D. and M.A. in school psychology from the University of South Carolina and her B.A. in psychology with honors from the SC Honors College. Dr. Philp has worked as an adjunct university professor and educational consultant, contributed to professional research and publications, and has expertise in special education compliance, program development, and trauma-informed behavioral and crisis interventions. She has been recognized as a Nationally Certified School Psychologist. “It is a great privilege to be entrusted by KCSD to serve our students, families, faculty, and staff as Director of Special Services. I am excited to contribute leadership and work alongside my talented colleagues to provide the highest quality educational experiences to our students with special needs,” says Philp. Dr. Philp has extensive leadership experience within her profession and community. She is currently serving on the Developmental Therapy Institute’s Professional Advisory Panel, is a Past President of the SC Association of School Psychologists, has served as a Guardian ad Litem for the Richland County CASA, and has served as Director of the SC Junior Civitan Leadership Conference. Dr. Philp is a graduate of Leadership Columbia, the NASP Public Policy Institute, the Richland Two Leading Up Program, the SC Department of Education’s Institute of District Administrators, and the SCASA Center for Executive Educational Leadership District Level Leaders Programs.
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February 9, 2024
Camden Walmart Awards Grant to CCTC
4K, 5K Registration Open
The Kershaw County School District (KCSD) online pre-registration process for four- and fiveIn an admirable move to support the educational well-being of students, the Walmart Community Grants Team has awarded a generous $1,500 grant to the Central Carolina Technical College Founda- year-old kindergarten classes for the 2024-2025 school year is now open. Families are able to comtion. The funds are earmarked for the Student Nutritional Access Center (SNAC). SNAC is a food pantry created to assist CCTC students in need of non-perishable food items. Twice plete the process online but can also attend in-person help sessions if needed on Thursday, February per month, students can receive 1-2 bags of groceries at no cost to them. According to CCTC's Executive Director of Student Development Renee Patchin, the food pantry 15. The online system will be open February 1-29. This online Kindergarten Round-Up is for famhas seen a 90% increase in student use with more than 100 visits since August 2023. ilies of four- and five-year-olds who are new to "We are thrilled to announce that Walmart supports our students in this way," said Misty Hatfield, vice president for Institutional Advancement. "This gesture underscores the company's commitment to KCSD and will be four or five by Sept. 1, 2024. Students qualify to attend 4K based on family inthe students in our community." come levels or academic needs. To learn more about the Student Nutritional Access Center, visit: cctech.edu/snac Families of students who have been served in either 4K or 5K this year do not participate in the Round-Up process. All new and returning KCSD students will complete registration this summer. SC Senator Gustafson (R-27) recently voted in Families can access the online paperwork at favor of H. 3594, standing firmly with the will of www.kcsdschools.net/roundup. Families who need her constituents in District 27. With the Gover- assistance with completing the process can attend nor’s approval, SC will become the 28th state to a help session on February 15, from 9 a.m. to 1 On March 2, in cooperation with Hermitrecognize the inherent right of individuals aged 18 p.m. or 3 to 6 p.m. at the school where their child age Sporting Grounds in Camden, Wreaths for and older to carry firearms without seeking gov- is zoned. To determine a child's zoned school, visit Quaker Cemetery will be hosting a Sporting ernment permission. www.kcsdschools.net/zoning. Clays Tournament. Evidence from other states shows that such legFamilies can upload vehicle, financial and resiCost is $100 per shooter. Prizes will be awarded islation doesn't increase gun violence. Gustafson dence documents needed to verify residency along for the highest shooter, the midpoint shooter, and remains opposed to gun registries in any form and with a parent’s photo ID, recent utility bill, child’s the lowest shooter. Team sponsorships are availgun-free zones, which only make innocents prime birth certificate and child’s certificate of immuniable. For more info, contact wreathsforquakercemtargets for criminals. zation. If applicable, a Medicaid card and SNAP etery@gmail.com Additionally, she believes in consistency in age acceptance letter can also be uploaded. Documents Quaker Cemetery has approximately 850 Vetparameters—18 for voting, military service, mar- can be digitally scanned or photographed. Each erans from the American Revolution to Afghaniriage, contracts, and now, the right to bear arms. document will need to be uploaded individually. stan. The proceeds from this tournament will go This bill aligns our state with this principle. For more information, contact KCSD Elementowards helping us meet our goal of 100% coverThe approval of H. 3594 marks a notable change tary Education Director Ginger Catoe at virginia. age of all of the graves with wreaths during the in SC's stance on gun laws, bringing forth chal- catoe@kcsdschools.net or 432-8416 ext.1264. holiday season. lenges that warrant thorough consideration. From addressing taxpayer concerns to tackling the mental health epidemic without compromising rights and navigating through misinformation, Sen. This WTC Plant Sale will be held Saturday, Gustafson is prepared to confront these issues diMarch 23rd from 8 AM - 3 PM at the WTC In support of the Kershaw County School Dis- rectly. While these challenges are substantial, they Greenhouse, 70 Innovation Way, Camden. trict’s mission and vision, Concerned Citizens of are not insurmountable. She is committed to a Follow Woolard Technology Center on FaceKershaw County (CCKC) will hold an empower- proactive approach in addressing them as we monbook for more updates on this event. ment session to share ways families can help their itor the implications of constitutional carry in SC. child succeed in school and in life. Parents will learn how to help their child respond to bullying, develop positive character traits, handle negative peer pressure, and reach their full potential. Ann Davis, Chairperson, said “CCKC is committed to connecting students and parents with resources that will promote student success.” Ramona Fletcher, who is the liaison for the Education Task Group of the Concerned Citizens of Kershaw County said, “We look forward to providing this opportunity for our families.” The session will be held on Thursday, February 15, at 6:00 p.m., in the fellowship hall at Camden Second Presbyterian Church, 816 Market Street, Camden, SC. For more information, please call 803427-1077 or 803-729-0708
Sporting Clays Constitutional Carry Tournament
CCKC Event
February 9, 2024
WTC Plant Sale
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Elgin + Camden Public Library Events
Weekly Events: Tuesdays (thru 2/20/24) | 9:30 AM – 11 AM | Elgin The Arthritis Foundation’s Walk with Ease: Join SC DHEC’s Farrah Wigand for programs designed to introduce adults to light exercise, demonstrate easy healthy recipes, and teach participants about arthritis and how to best manage the symptoms. We’ll have light exercise and food demonstrations/tastings at each session. For adults of all ages. Sign yourself or your loved one up by calling the Elgin library at 803-438-7881. Wednesdays | 10:30 AM – 11 AM | Camden Get Set to Read Storytime: Join us for stories, songs and fun. For ages 3-5. Wednesdays | 11:15 AM – 12 PMvCamden Baby Storytime: A fun time of stories, songs and movement for ages 0-2. Thursdays | 10:30 AM – 11 AM | Elgin Get Set to Read Storytime: Join us for stories, songs and fun. For ages 3-5. Thursdays | 11:15 AM – 12 PM | Elgin Baby Storytime: A fun time of stories, songs and movement for ages 0-2.
Tuesday, February 13 | 2 PM – 3 PM | Camden Master Gardener: Caring for the Winter Garden: Join Jackie Jordan, Master Gardener Coordinator, to learn tips for caring for your garden during the coldest season. Come grow with us! Wednesday, February 14 | 4 PM to 5 PM | Elgin Bricks n’ Blocks: Join us in Elgin to build with Legos, K’nex, Lincoln Logs, Duplo Legos, building blocks, and more! For kids of all ages. Thursday, February 15 | 4 PM – 5 PM | Camden Lego Club: Kids of all ages are welcome to join us to play with Legos at the library! Thursday, February 22 | 4 PM – 5:30 PM in Camden Chess Club: Come on in for a chess club for all! All ages and skill levels are welcome to join us for play. We also offer free lessons to beginners for ages 8 to adult.
American Legion Post 195 Charter Member Honored
Post 195 Charter member, Korean War army veteran, and WWII war refugee Otto Eslinger was honored recently at the Ft. Jackson National Cemetery. Otto passed away January 17th, just 22 days short of his 93rd birthday. A South Carolina Army National Guard honor guard presented the flag to the family. Living Springs Lutheran Church Reverend Eric Fink led the service. Also in attendance were Post 195 historian and past president Jim Fitzgerald, Chaplain Colleen Morrow, and Adjutant Ruppert Baird. Otto was born in Beresina, Bessarabia, Romania. Beresina was a German colony that was a part of Romania when he was born. As a child, he saw WWII as RomaOtto Eslinger nia went to war against the Soviet Union alongside Nazi Germany. He later witnessed the USSR's conquest of his hometown as it became a part of the USSR after WWII. Today, the town is in Ukraine. Otto was able to flee to Germany, and eventually to the United States, where he joined the US Army and fought in Korea.
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Thursday, February 22 | 6 PM – 7 PM | Camden Camden Book Club: We will be discussing Familia by Lauren E. Rico. New members are always welcome. Pick up a copy at the Camden branch. Saturday, February 24 | 10 AM – 2 PM | Elgin Strategy Saturday: Join us for board games at the Elgin library! We have board games for all ages, classics and indie games alike! From Jenga to Carcassonne, Connect-4 and Sorry, Uno and Fluxx… we’ve got what you’ll love. Play together, in a quiet area, or on our enclosed porch. All ages welcome. Monday, February 26 | 10 AM – 11:30 AM | Camden Merchant Monday Meetups: Learn about resources and tools tailored to local merchants to help achieve business goals, brainstorm new ideas, and build partnerships. Main Street Manager Kat Spadacenta will be sharing important dates and events, as well as sharing resources from previous small business workshops at KCL. Monday, February 26 | 5 PM – 6 PM | Elgin Elgin Book Club: We’re starting back up our monthly book club with Beyond That, The Sea by Laura Spence-Ash. Pick up your copy at the front desk and join our discussion! Tuesday, February 27 | 6 PM – 7 PM | Camden Winter Workshop: SBA Federal Contracting 101: The federal government spends more than $500 billion annually on federal contracts and 23% must go to small businesses. Want to learn how you can be a part of that 23%? Join Angela Brewer, Business Opportunity Specialist with the SBA South Carolina District Office as she discusses federal contracting. Thursday, February 29 | 4 PM – 5 PM | Camden Lego Club: Join us to play with Legos at the library! Thursday, February 29 | 6 PM - 7 PM | Camden Growing Readers: What is the Orton-Gillingham Method? Paige Moranos, local Orton-Gillingham tutor, will explain the method and answer the question, "Why Orton-Gillingham?" This is a method which supports all readers, but especially those with a dyslexia diagnosis.
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February 9, 2024
The Need For An Attorney At Your KCSO
With the recent retirement of our administrative captain, I have decided to replace the position with an attorney. Some people question why I would give up a certified law enforcement officer position for an attorney at a time we are understaffed. First of all, the administrative captain position has become so “admin focused” that the captain seldom got a chance to leave his office. A certified law enforcement officer is not directly helpful to the community if he/she is stuck in an office all day. There are major benefits in having an attorney at your KCSO. Our solicitors office has become so overloaded with general sessions court cases they can no longer assist us with the prosecution of magistrate level cases. This means a rookie deputy would have to prosecute important cases such as DUI and Domestic Violence against defendants with the best attorneys money can buy. I am not good with DUI or Domestic Violence cases getting less than the best prosecution from your KCSO. A staff attorney can help give us a fair chance in magistrate court.
Your KCSO attorney will also assist with our state and national accreditation, complex freedom of information requests, policy and procedure reviews, participate on use of force and pursuit board reviews, occasionally respond to crime scenes, and assist with legal advice. We currently have to pay an outside attorney for legal services. This will be the first time in history your KCSO has a full-time attorney on staff. I have no doubt this will help move your KCSO into a better future. We are currently searching for the right person to fill this position. The position comes with all county benefits, state insurance and retirement, and a take home vehicle. Anyone interested can apply at our office or online at KershawSheriff.com. Scan the code to get started.
Stover Middle Wins Annual Quiz Bowl
Stover Quiz Bowl Team won the 2nd Annual Kershaw County School District Quiz Bowl Tournament.
Blevins Honored by Post 11079
On January 24th, Lugoff-Elgin High School history teacher Jonathan Blevins was presented with the Smart/Maher Veterans of Foreign Wars National Citizenship Education Teacher award. This prestigious annual award recognizes teachers who champion civic duty, promote patriotism, and actively cultivate democratic principles through innovative projects. Congratulations to Mr. Blevins for receiving this honor! Photo courtesy Ava Greenway. February 9, 2024
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