Elgin News - 3A 2024

Letter Submissions

It is the policy of The Elgin News to encourage read er participation on its editorial page. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. Because of space limitations, we must limit all contributors to one letter per person per month. Letters of 200 words or less will be published unless they contain language or content that the editors feel is inappropriate.

Examples of content that will cause letters to be rejected include the following:

• Disrespectful comments regarding a group's or individual's ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, religion, culture, or race.

• Poor taste.

• Endorsements for or complaints about individually named commercial products or services.

• Personal attacks.

The Elgin News will not knowingly publish factually incorrect information.

Only letters written exclusively to the newspaper will be published. Letters to a third party or those written to more than one newspaper are not accepted.

Letters written in response to other letter writers should address the issue at hand and, rather than mentioning the writer by name, should refer to the headline and date the letter was published. Discourse should be civil and people should be referred to in a respectful manner. Letters referring to news stories should also mention the headline and date of publication.

All letters must be signed and include the writer's street address or route address telephone number, which will be used for verification purposes only.

We welcome your input. You may write to us by e-mail at elginnews@gmail.com or by regular mail at:

Letters to the Editor

The Elgin News

P.O. Box 152

Elgin, SC 29045

Cate Goff,

Editor

(803) 513-5108

News From KC Council

By: Councilman Derek Shoemake

In an era of divided politics there is one thing that has universal agreement: litter is awful, and we see way too much of it along our roads and in our community.

Littering is not just a minor inconvenience; it is a significant environmental hazard that threatens the health and well-being of our neighborhoods and wildlife. From plastic bottles strewn along our roadsides to discarded wrappers cluttering our parks, the impact of litter is pervasive and detrimental.

Combating this problem is difficult, because litterbugs have virtually no awareness of, compassion for, or decency toward their community, their neighbors, or the rest of society. Still, our County Council cannot simply sit back and do nothing. I am proud of the many efforts we have made, and are making, to address litter and wanted to share those with you.

First, at the upcoming meeting on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, County Council will be voting on a critical ordinance that seeks to amplify our efforts in combating the persistent issue of littering. Current law does not require litter pickup, and the fine is only $25!

The proposed litter ordinance increases fines for littering violations and requires community service for violations. It would make a first violation punishable by no less than a fine of $250 and 8 hours of litter-gathering community service; a second violation punishable by no less than a fine of $250 and 16 hours of litter-gathering community service; and a third violation punishable by no less than a fine of $750 and 24 hours of litter-gathering community service.

By imposing stricter penalties, we hope to deter individuals from engaging in this irresponsible behavior and promote greater accountability among our residents. It sends a clear message that littering will not be tolerated in our community, and those who disregard our environment will face consequences. I urge each and every one of you to stand with me in support of this ordinance.

Second, enacting legislation alone is not enough to combat littering effectively. We are currently hiring a litter officer, and are examining how we might bring in volunteers to help with litter enforcement. In terms of governmental cleanup efforts, we are exploring ways to bring back inmate litter crews and have been putting in requests with DOT for litter cleanup (crews were in Elgin recently cleaning up Highway 1).

Third, any effort against litter requires collective action and a shared commitment from each member of our community. That is why I am thrilled to be part of the upcoming litter clean-up event hosted by the Kershaw County Clean Community Commission on Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 9 a.m. until noon. This event presents a wonderful opportunity for us to come together as neighbors and take tangible steps towards restoring the cleanliness of our streets, parks, and public spaces. Email kccleancommunity@gmail.com for more information.

I encourage all residents of Elgin and Kershaw County to participate in this meaningful initiative. Whether you can spare an hour or the entire morning, your contribution will make a difference. By joining forces with fellow community members, we can make a significant impact and demonstrate our collective dedication to preserving the beauty of our hometown. I also deeply appreciate the amazing work of the Kershaw County Clean Community Commission as they spread the word and help promote community awareness of this critical issue.

Everyone must take personal responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of our community beyond this event. Simple actions such as properly disposing of trash and educating others can go a long way in creating a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.

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).

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

From The Chief's Desk

It’s almost Spring time, or pollen time. In this Chief’s Desk, I want to continue to introduce our Officers.

This article talks about Officer Alex Picciuolo. Alex has been with Elgin Police Dept. for about a year and a half. He came over from the town of Winnsboro Public Safety where he was both a Police Officer and Fireman. Alex began his public safety career in 2014 as an NCO with the SC State Guard before becoming a Class 1 certified Police Officer in 2018.

Alex is a welcomed addition to our department. He always has a bright, positive attitude, works very hard, strives to aways learn and loves making new friends in the community.

Outside of Policing, he’s a father of a 9-year-old son, they both love legos and enjoy anything outdoors that South Carolina has to offer.

Please say hello to Alex when he’s spotted patrolling our town, he loves to chat with absolutely anyone!

Elgin Police Department Incident Reports

Assault Simple/Public Disorderly Conduct/Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor: OFC Picciuolo, along with Chief Anders and SGT DeLong arrived in the area near Abbey Rd. address to investigate an assault. Upon arrival, OFC Picciuolo spoke with Victims who stated that the neighbors across the street had come to their yard and assaulted them. OFC Picciuolo went to the back door and SGT DeLong went to the front door of Subject's home to speak to the residents of this address. After a period of time, Subject, KW, and RW (both minors) came out and began yelling to officers about what happened. Subject began getting louder and OFC placed handcuffs on her for officer safety. After the situation was diffused, OFC Picciuolo removed handcuffs from Subject, and a conversation followed. Subject stated that her dog had gotten out of the yard and Victim had come over and began knocking on the door. At some point, Victim called Subject a "bi*ch" and walked back to his yard, across the street. Subject's son, RW and daughter, KW went across the street to confront Victim about calling their mother a "bi*ch". Victim stated that he did not want to fight a child and defended himself against punches thrown by KW or RW (or both KW and RW). At some point, Victims #2 and #3 entered the melee. Subject stated that Victim #3 grabbed KW by her hair and threw her to the ground. There is video of the incident from the point where Subject, KW, RW, and another minor, AS, came into the Victim's yard. OFC Picciuolo was given a copy of this video and it was placed on EPD server for safekeeping. The video appears to place into doubt what Subject stated to officers. At no point in the video was Victim #3 near any of the people who came across the street. Statement forms were given to all parties who witnessed or were involved in this disturbance. Shortly after officers had cleared the initial disturbance, relatives of Subject arrived in the area in two separate SUV's and stood along the road, yelling threats to the Victim family. OFC Picciuolo returned to the area and diffused the situation. OFC Picciuolo advised all parties to stop being antagonistic toward each other.

Business License Violation: On 02/22/20224, I Sgt. Delong and Chief Anders went to 1232 Rose St. (Vape Shop) in the Town Limits of Elgin to follow up on a complaint that someone was living in the back room. Upon our arrival, we met with an Employee. We explained to Employee the reason we were there and requested to speak with the Owner about the complaint that Employee was living in the back room of the shop. Employee denied living in the business and stated that the owner was not available. We explained that living in the business was a violation of the business license and Owner needed to make contact with the Police Department ASAP. While speaking to Employee it appeared that he had just woken up, when Employee opened the door that separate the shop from the back room I could see in plain sight a bed set up on the floor in the right corner with a gallon of milk next to it as if

someone was living in that room. I left my card with Employee and explained the importance of Owner calling to discuss this matter. This is not the first complaint received about someone possibly living in the back room.

Disturbance: On the above date and time Officer Dover was dispatched to Blaney Elementary School in reference to a disturbance. Once on scene, I made contact with the Assistant Principal, which stated that there was a Father on scene causing a disturbance due to the school not allowing him to pick his child up early from school. Assistant Principal stated that they had a family court order in place, that the Father was only to get the child after school let out and on the terms that the Mother agreed to let the Father see the child after school. The Mother was on scene as well, but was in the front office with the school staff members. Officer spoke with the Father about the incident, which he stated that he felt like he needed to get his child out of school early to let the child know that he loves him and that he wanted to just spend time with the child due to an incident that happened earlier in the school year. After reviewing the family court paperwork, Officer made the decision to escort the Father off of the school property and referred him to family court. If he felt the need that the paperwork needed some changes, the family court judge would have to review and issue a new court order. The Father left the property without any other further incident. This report will be completed for documentation purposes only.

Shoplifting/Tresspass Notice: Manager of Food Lion, sent Officer a text message to come to Food Lion in reference to a shoplifter. Officers went to the store and spoke with Manager who stated that a white female was in the restroom and had items that she was consuming in the bathroom. Manager had followed the subject seeing her conceal items in the store. After waiting on the subject to exit the restroom she finally did. Subject was the suspect and I asked if she had taken anything that she did not pay for, and she said "no." Subject smelled very strongly of alcohol as well. I then got Subject's purse and searched it for concealed items that she may have belonging to the store. I asked Subject again if she had stolen anything from the store and she again stated she did not. At this time Manager retrieved the trash bag from restroom and it contained an alcoholic Monster drink that was still cold to the touch, and Secret women's deodorant. Subject still denied she took the items and I placed her under arrest by handcuffing her behind her back, double locking the cuffs and checking them for tightness. Subject then stated she would pay for the items if I let her go. Ptl. Branham escorted Subject to my patrol car, and placed her in my back seat. I then transported Subject to KCDC, and when we arrived at the jail, custody of Subject was turned over to the KCDC staff. Subject was charged with shoplifting and was trespassed from Food Lion. The total property value that Food Lion lost was $11.79.

Jones Launches Second Book

By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer

I am excited and honored to invite you to meet my friend, author W. Scott Jones, at his book launch for his novel What a Crowd at Camden Military Academy’s Cline Library on Saturday March 16 (2-4pm) or Ella’s Boutique in Camden Saturday March 23 (11-2pm). When I checked Amazon’s Hot Releases a few days after it was released and learned that it was the number one book topping Travis Kelce’s Fame, I knew that Scott’s book was a winner. Scott grew up in Sumter and graduated from the University of South Carolina. We are friendly rivals. Go Tigers!

This novel will bring out the loyalty of major college football fans. The reader can feel college football’s importance in our state as Clemson’s Danny Ford and USC’s Joe Morrison along with other college football head coaches work hard to recruit the nation’s number one prospect.

University of Georgia football historian Patrick Garbin sets the tone for readers of What a Crowd in the Foreword of the book: Set in the Deep South where football has always been a religion, Coach W. Scott Jones’s captivating narrative What a Crowd takes you back to a time on-line recruiting services and NIL deals. This is a story of the recruiting process of Frankie Lake, the nation’s number one football prospect in 1985, and the coach, Stephen Blake who gets caught up in the process -so to speak- in his staunch support of Lake. Amidst racial tensions and recruiting misdeeds, including the kidnapping of a college coach, the country’s top high school prospect must decideand soon- where he’ll play college football. As legendary college football names often come calling- which college will Frankie Lake sign with?

Scott coached at LEHS from 1996 until 2014. Now retired, Scott coaches and teaches history at Camden Military Academy. CMA is located near the

Camden Airport on Highway 1. Today they have 300 cadets in grades 7-12.

Jones said, “Some people say that you should write about what you know. I decided I would write a novel which centered around my early years of coaching when the rules regarding recruits were much different. There was a time when all the major head coaches could come and watch practice at the high schools. I was fortunate to meet some of the game’s greats. Most of the college coaches in my book are larger than life. I wished that I had taped conversations of our encounters. Those moments will always be priceless to me.”

The lead character Frankie in the book is an academically challenged young man who is pure and without fault. Frankie only cared about the Lord, his family, animals, and wildlife where he was raised. The Sumter Daily Item’s book reviewer Jane Collins critiqued this novel for their readership and wrote What a Crowd is filled with realistic characters. Jone’s characters are so well introduced that the reader is immersed in a story line so interesting that it becomes real and involving. Woven into the life of Frankie Lake, Coach Hanover, and Coach Blake is an interesting search for moral clarity, service to others, and life decisions.

Jones continued, “I have learned a lot by having my book published professionally. The publisher has no problem pointing out ways you can improve as a writer. My close friends know that I am not the best writer in the world, but fortunately many think I’m pretty good at storytelling. When I started this process, I had no idea that I would have to promote myself on social media. Never in my life have I been a self-promoter. This has been a big change for me.

I’ve truly enjoyed meeting the readers and other authors. I’ve learned that this is a business, but it is a fun business. Some advice I would share with aspiring writers is don’t hold back. I waited almost 27 years before I decided to write again. I wish now that I had studied my craft and taken the chance years ago.”

Scott has two other self- published novels, A Storm in the Carolinas (2021) and The Treasures of a Carolina Summer (2022). Books may be ordered on Amazon Books and will also be available at book signings.

LEMS Beta Club 'Bears for Buddies'

For the last few weeks, the Lugoff Elgin Beta Club has been collecting “Bears for Buddies” as their latest service project. All Beta Club members were asked to donate a new stuffed animal to count toward their service hours. Bears will be donated to the pediatric ward of the Kershaw County Hospital. Not only did Beta Club members contribute to the project, but many LEMS Leopards donated to the cause, as well. LEMS is a school full of love and compassion, and the collection of hundreds of bears proves how Leopards share their love with their community.

BETA Club students gather stuffed animals to take to Kershaw County Hospital. Pictured: Victorian Smith, Dylan Kish, Lucy Sirmon, Brianna Blanck, Khloe Bohanon, Ainslie Hall, Ansley Stokes, Amaya Gary

LEHS Celebrates Black History Month With Assembly

On February 23rd, Lugoff-Elgin High School (LEHS) set the stage for a vibrant celebration of Black History Month (BHM) with an all-school assembly. Spearheaded by LEHS math teacher Samantha Thomas-Greene, the event drew a diverse audience, including students, faculty, and esteemed guests including representatives of "The Divine Nine" (nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations), the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Order of the Eastern Star, and the Sphinx Organization were present.

Throughout the event, students took center stage with captivating presentations and performances. Freshman Sibrina Robinson dazzled with a contemporary ballet solo, while the dynamic Demonettes dance team infused the occasion with energy through an African history-inspired routine.

The LEHS Chorus enriched the atmosphere with poignant songs reflecting the spirit of BHM. Senior ceramics student Aniyah Adams regaled assembly guests with an educational speech on art history while African-inspired ceramics created by LEHS students were displayed on podiums nearby.

Senior Italy Camp showcased her vocal talent by singing a soulful rendition of “Stand Up,” from a 2019 biopic on Harriet Tubman, as the audience engaged in the performance by clapping and waving flashlights in the air.

Following Italy’s performance, students from the LEHS African American Studies class provided a brief summary of key events and notable Black figures in history. The assembly was concluded with a performance by the Dynamic Demon Steppers, wowing the crowd with their rhythmic stepping.

Photos courtesy Shana Turner.

NOVEMBER 9TH, 2023

Steven Marsh & YingYan Wang are happy to announce the birth of their son STEVEN MARSH, JR.

Junior Peyton Stanley performs a dance with the LEHS Demonettes Dance Team. The routine was inspired by African music and dance techniques.

LEHS senior Italy Camp sings her heart out in her first public performance. Inspired audience members began waving their cell phone flashlights as they were moved by the performance.

Sophomore Elijiah Lawson steps to the beat as a member of LEHS's Dynamic Demon Steppers. The performance was preceded by a brief oral history of stepping.

Lugoff Elementary STEM Night

Recently, Lugoff Elementary hosted a Math and STEM Madness Night for their families. This special event included Family Night at the Bookfair, really cool STEM activities that incorporated books and building, an estimation jar filled with basketball themed candy that served as the prize for the evening to the person closest to guessing the right amount, Math Bingo for all ages, Family Games, which also turned into friend games too, as well as a Mix and Measure station, where students got to make a yummy snack to take with them! It was all smiles by students and their families and some stiff, friendly competition as they went from station to station. It was a wonderful night of FUN while learning! In addition, families got some wonderful books and math games to take home and enjoy later on together!

REHABILITATIVE CARE IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

Midlands Regional Rehabilitation Hospital in Elgin can help you regain your independence after an injury.

Our inpatient rehab hospital has 40 all-private rooms and treats those recovering from disabling injuries or living with chronic illnesses, such as:

• Strokes

• Brain injuries

• Spinal cord injuries

• Orthopedic injuries, including hip fractures

• Major multiple trauma

• ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Parkinson’s disease

• Amputations

• Neurological conditions

To learn more about our services, visit our website at MRRH.ernesthealth.com.

Golf Tourney To Honor Chase Newman

The first annual Chase Newman Golf Tournament is scheduled for April 27th at Pine Creek Golf Course in Camden. All proceeds of the tournament will go to the Chase Newman Scholarship Fund, and will benefit Kershaw County students.

Registration fee for four person teams is $240, and additional sponsorships are available.

For more information on how to participate, text 803.600.3660.

• Elgin, SC 29045

803.438.8890

Chase Newman passed away in May of 2023. Chase was a student at Camden High School and a member of the Camden Golf Team. He was also a member of the Pleasant Hill Hunt Club and the Camden Country Club, where he spent a lot of time. Chase lit up every room with his presence. He was a true blessing to everyone he met. He loved the outdoors, his friends and family and his Boykin Spaniel, Millie. He enjoyed hunting, golfing, fishing, baseball and snow skiing.

Thomley Announces Signing for Second Book

Local author, David Thomley, invites you to a book signing this Saturday, March 9th, at the Elgin Town Hall, 10 AM until Noon. Thomley will be on hand to sign copies of his latest children's book, Why me God? Why me?

A limited number of Thomley's previous children's book, The Scary House on Cadbury Lane will also be available.

CMC Celebrates 25 Years

The Community Medical Clinic, in celebration of 25 years of serving Kershaw County, is thrilled to announce that we are having a 25th Anniversary Shindig and the whole community is invited to celebrate with us!

Join us Saturday, March 23rd from 1-4 pm at the Antioch Community Center 1591 Bishopville Highway in Camden. There will be food trucks, live entertainment, a petting zoo, bouncy house, family games, prizes and more!

Event

The Camden Junior Welfare League, in partnership with the Camden Poets Society, Kershaw County School District, Arts Center of Kershaw County and Camden Living will host a poetry competition for High School students in the district.

The deadline for entries is March 31. Poems may be submitted through your English teacher, or to camdenjuniorwelfareleague.com

Three awards will be given at an event on April 30th, from 7 pm – 9 pm, at the Black Box Theater on the Arts Center campus.

Everyone is invited to be a part of CMC’s 25th Anniversary Shindig as we look back with pride and celebrate the individuals, volunteers, and community of supporters who have been instrumental in our journey and look forward with optimism towards a future where healthcare remains a fundamental right for everyone.

We will also be honoring the founding CEO of CMC, Susan Witkowski. Witkowski has been a compassionate, cutting-edge leader dedicated to serving the uninsured and vulnerable in Kershaw County for the past 25 years and is retiring.

EVENT DETAILS:

DATE: Saturday, March 23rd, 2024

TIME: 1 - 4 PM

VENUE: Antioch Community Center 1591 Bishopville Highway Camden, SC 29020

ENTRANCE FEE: $25 and children under 14 free (Cash, Check and Card accepted at the gate! Questions? Email mhill@cmcofkc.org

International Praise has recently opened their iReach food pantry and closet at 5071 Percival Road in Elgin. They are open Tuesdays from 9am - 12 noon and Thursdays from 6pm - 8pm. They are also seeking donations. See below for needs:

Call 803-788-1932 to donate or find our more information.

Smyrna United Methodist invites you to their annual Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 23rd from 10 am - 12 pm at 16 Smyrna Road, Elgin. Activities include games, prizes and a hot dog lunch.

Wateree Beekeepers Grant KCSD Principal of the Year

Wateree Beekeepers Association was selected as a recipient of the 20232024 AgSouth Growing Our Communities Grant. They were one of 42 organizations chosen across Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina to receive the grant from a total of 276 applications.

Wateree Beekeepers Association is a local organization that introduces new beekeepers to the art and science of beekeeping while continuing education for those who are already experienced with apiculture. They have used the grant funds to purchase loaner jackets for new beekeepers to experience inspecting colonies of bees prior to investing their own money in beekeeping. They have found that sometimes people are misled by well-intentioned folks and need to experience the investment of money and effort that goes into successfully keeping bees. Please visit watereebeekeepers.com for more information about beekeeping in Kershaw and surrounding counties!

The AgSouth Growing Our Communities Grant is a combination of legacy Carolina Farm Credit’s Corporate Mission Fund and legacy AgSouth’s Think Outside the Store Farmer’s Market Grant. With the merger of the two organizations, the grant programs were combined, re-branded, and expanded across three states, awarding $197,200 to 42 organizations.

“Our Growing Our Communities Grant is another way that AgSouth Farm Credit strives to enhance agriculture and rural communities in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.” said Vance Dalton, CEO, AgSouth Farm Credit, “These grants help provide project funding for many great organizations across our territory.”

The AgSouth Growing Our Communities Grant operates on an application-based grant system. Non-profits and farmers markets may apply for up to $5,000 per year to help in their endeavors to promote agriculture, as well as stimulate their local agricultural economy. Grant applications will be accepted from April 1 to June 30, 2024. Project proposals will be reviewed and grants will be awarded in the fourth quarter of 2024. To qualify, non-profit organizations and farmers markets must be located within the 147 counties and geographic area where AgSouth Farm Credit conducts business. For more info, visit the AgSouth "Growing Our Communities Grant" page.

Kershaw County Adult Education Director Byron Johnson was named Kershaw County School District (KCSD) 2024 Principal of the Year today. Johnson was selected through a nomination process by his peers of school and district administrators.

A veteran educator, Johnson has worked in Kershaw County Schools for 17 years. Prior to leading the district's Adult Education program, he served as the Camden Middle School Principal for 10 years and as an assistant principal at Camden High for five years. Johnson taught in Charleston County Schools for seven years, where he also served as a teaching coach for two years.

Johnson is married to Sherri Johnson, and they have two children, Jordan (junior at CHS) and Jaden (7th grader at CMS).

Five honor roll finalists were also recently named in the 2024 KCSD Teacher of the Year Program:

Sarah Campolongo - Lugoff Elementary

Twanda Geiger-Mickle - North Central Elementary

Jodie Kahler - North Central Middle

Katie Munn - Woolard Technology Center

Dr. Thomas Perry - North Central High

All of our teachers of the year are great representatives and will be celebrated on Thursday, April 18 when the district teacher of the year is announced. The Teacher of the Year Gala starts at 7 p.m. that evening at Camden High School.

Above, left to right: KCSD Superintendent Dr. Harrison Goodwin, Byron Johnson and KCSD Chief Academic Officer Dan Matthews.

Select members of your KCSO SRT (Special Response Team) participated in the SC SWAT Challenge at the Sawmill Training Complex in Laurens, SC last month. This challenge is accredited by the SC Criminal Justice Academy and tests all aspects of your KCSO SRT Unit to include marksmanship/tactics, leadership, teamwork, and physical fitness. This was an excellent learning opportunity that we are grateful to have been a part of.

Valkyrie Tactical Solutions & The Sawmill conducted the South Carolina 2024 SWAT Challenge. They say, “This challenge tests Teams on their Tactical and Technical Proficiency on 7 distinct events. These events will give agencies from across the state the privilege and opportunity to network, learn, and enjoy friendly competition. Our goal is to encourage exchange tal focus and physical endurance needed for high performing teams.” We