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
Another budget is in the books for Kershaw County! Last month, the Kershaw County Council passed an annual budget of $35 million. This budget is designed to make significant investments in our community, particularly in the areas that matter most to all of us—public safety, county services, and essential infrastructure projects. I want to take this opportunity to explain how this budget will benefit our community and why I believe it is a prudent and forward-thinking plan for Kershaw County.
Supporting Our First Responders
First and foremost, our budget prioritizes the needs of our first responders—those brave individuals who serve as the frontline defenders of our safety and well-being. The budget allocates significant funds to the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office, Fire Departments, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS). This includes investing in new equipment and technology to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of our first responders.
Additionally, the Sheriff’s Office will join many other first responders as having their own millage. This means that a dedicated percentage of taxes collected in the future will go directly to the Sheriff’s Office, and they will benefit from any natural growth in our tax base.
Enhancing County Services
Another key aspect of the budget is the investment in our county employees. Our dedicated county staff work tirelessly to provide essential services to residents, and it is crucial that we support them. This budget includes wage increases and improved benefits for our county employees, which will help attract and retain skilled workers. This in turn means better services for the citizens of Kershaw County.
Investing in Infrastructure
Infrastructure is the backbone of any thriving community, and this budget includes substantial investments in critical infrastructure projects across Kershaw County. We have allocated funds for public works and solid waste, in addition to improvements to our water and sewer systems. These projects are essential for supporting our growing population and ensuring the safety and convenience of our residents.
Supporting Community Projects
Our budget also sets aside funds for various community projects that will enhance the quality of life for our residents. This includes the maintenance of parks and recreational facilities and providing money to organizations that offer a direct benefit to Kershaw County residents.
Fiscal Responsibility
While making these substantial investments, we have remained committed to fiscal responsibility. The budget was crafted with careful consideration of our financial resources, ensuring that we are not overextending ourselves or placing an undue burden on taxpayers. By prioritizing projects and seeking out grants and partnerships, we have been able to maximize the impact of our funds. Kershaw County remains as one of the overall lowest taxed counties in South Carolina.
We did increase certain fees related to developments as we work to curb explosive residential growth and ensure our growth is responsible and deliberate. We have also established a contingency fund to address unexpected expenses and emergencies. This prudent approach ensures that we are prepared for unforeseen challenges and can continue to provide essential services without disruption.
See KC COUNCIL, Page 4 >>
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
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
No SCDL: While on patrol on the 1600 block of Smyrna Road the reporting officer observed a light blue 2018 Chevrolet Cruze. A check of the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle files was done, but the reporting officer ran it as 553ADL. That tag came back to a 2004 Honda Accord. So thinking the vehicle did not match the tag the reporting officer conducted a traffic stop revealing the Suspect to be the driver and sole occupant. Upon approaching the vehicle the Suspect immediately admitted to not having a valid drivers license. A registration was produced, then revealing to the reporting officer the correct tag was the 553AOL not the 553ADL. The Suspect was clear NCIC, but no drivers license came back on file. He advised he was on the way to the trash dump for his grandparents. His brother responded and had a valid license. He took custody of the vehicle. The Suspect was cited for No South Carolina Drivers License and released until his court date. He was advised to get his beginners permit and the charge could be dismissed. The reporting officer's body worn camera was activated.
Shoplifting: On 07-02-2024, Store Manager stated that a white female while leaving the store set off the theft. Manager stopped her just outside the front door of the store, and she gave back the items that she took (nails and hand lotion Valued at $11.45) and then she ran off. Officer Cooper and Bailey checked the area, Cooper found her on Watson St. Officer talked with Subject and she did admit to Officer to taking the items and given the items back to the Manager per her request outside the store before run-
ning off. Officer Talked with Manager and she wanted the prosecute. Officer took Subject the jail and trespassed her from the store.
Altered Mental Status: The reporting officer was dispatched to the incident location, Food Lion, regarding a person requesting to speak with law enforcement. Upon the reporting officers arrival, the Suspect was located standing outside in front of the store. There was a language barrier due to him speaking Spanish, but the reporting officer was able to identify the Suspect by papers he had in his possession from Homeland Security. The reporting officer also used a dispatcher from central dispatch to help translate. Once able to communicate the Suspect was advising he had people hack into his phone and he was hearing voices. He was also stating he saw his information come up on the television screen and there were people trying to kill him. It was also discovered that Kershaw County Deputies were out with the Suspect earlier in the day on Dixon Road for similar behavior. He was cleared by EMS, but no further action was taken. Due to the Suspect displaying an altered mental status and having been checked by EMS previously, the reporting officer requested the mobile crisis unit. Christina Miller with SC Department of Mental Health responded and conducted an initial assessment. She was able to get a detention order signed by Judge Kornegay. The Suspect was then escorted to MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center for evaluation by Officer Bailey. All officers body worn cameras were activated. A copy of the order was emailed to Officer Bailey. Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts or Accessories: Victim was on duty at the Elgin Circle K on the
morning of 29 June 2024. His vehicle, a Lexus SUV, was parked in front of the Circle K. When Victim went to leave, he noticed that both of the drivers' side tires were flat. Upon closer investigation, Victim realized that both of the valve stems had been removed. Along with the manager of the Circle K, Victim reviewed security camera footage and discovered that a white male had removed the valve stems from the tires. This white male appeared to be driving a late model Honda Pilot, white in color. A tag number was not discernible from the surveillance footage from the store. Request to search FLOCK camera footage submitted. The Circle K manager, will get a copy of the store footage for EPD.
Larceny, All Other: The Complainant, Gas Technologist, for the Victim (Dominion Energy) advised they came to check the gas regulator (RS-887) at the intersection of Oakland Drive and White Pond Road , due to a low voltage reading. Upon assessing the regulator it was revealed the copper wire providing current to the pipes to prevent corrosion was cut. The wire was cut at ground level, so the piece of wire taken would have been about 14 inches in length. The Complainant advised this is the second time the wire at this regulator has been cut, requiring a repair. He also advised the power poles at this intersection have had the copper ground wire cut off at about arms reach height. Three poles were observed to be missing copper. The regulator and poles were photographed. The Complainant advised they request documentation only to allow police to be aware of the issue. The reporting officers' body worn camera was activated.
The Land Of The Free Because Of The Brave
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
It is time for red, white, and blue to decorate our homes and businesses and for us as a nation to celebrate our freedoms. Can you remember the facts surrounding our nation’s struggle for freedom and independence? It is humbling to realize that we live in a community that honors our heritage and heroes.
In our Town Green in the city of Camden stands the statues of Joseph Kershaw, American patriot nicknamed “the father of Camden” (1727 -1791). The other statue is of King Hagler the patron saint of Camden, a brave Indian warrior who is in the South Carolina Hall of Fame (1700 - 1763). Our 13 colonies were founded by those men and women who came in search of a better life. They wanted to leave behind the political and religious strife. Over 400 years ago they came in search of the “American dream” in the “land of opportunity” called the New World - America.
We have all studied about the Boston Tea Party and the Midnight Ride of Paul Revere. We watched the movie The Patriot and 1776. We celebrate with fireworks, cookouts, and parades. July the 4th is one of our most popular holidays. What do we know about events that occurred here over 250 years ago? We have our Revolutionary War Park, but how many of our readers have toured the site?
Camden was founded in 1732 when the king of England ordered 11 townships to be built on rivers in South Carolina. The Broad River, Congaree River, Lynches River, and Wateree River boarded the Camden District north to the North Carolina line. Camden was first named Pine Tree Hill. The site of Fredericksburg Township was on the east bank of the Wateree River on both sides of present-day Camden. In 1768, it was renamed for Charles Platt, Lord Camden.
The Declaration of Independence was signed July the 4th, 1776 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by the founding fathers. When the Second Continental Congress adopted the Constitution, the thirteen colonies became its own country. Today we consider July the 4th as America's birthday.
December 31, 1775, Great Britain's Parliament ordered the British sol-
KC COUNCIL, continued from Page 2
Looking Ahead
This budget is more than just a financial plan; it is a roadmap for the future of Kershaw County. It reflects our commitment to supporting those who serve our community, enhancing the services we provide, and investing in projects that will benefit all residents. By prioritizing public safety, county services, and infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for a prosperous and thriving Kershaw County while balancing the requirement of being good
diers to take the rebelling colonists’ land and burn their meeting places which were often churches. Over 14 churches were burned in South Carolina from 1779 to 1782, most were Presbyterian. The date of the first battle in the war April 19, 1775, was called “the shot heard around the world.” It happened over 16 miles along Bay Road between the towns of Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts.
There were also over 14 battles in our immediate midlands area with 1,300 Continental troops killed or wounded. The town of Camden, surrendered to the British on June 1, 1780 by waving white flags. The British soldiers took the town and established a British command center. The town people were held hostage for 10 months.
The Battle of Camden took place August 16, 1780, shortly after dawn when Americans soldiers challenged the British Army of 3,000. The American soldiers panicked and retreated to the North. This was the worst defeat of the Revolutionary War with 900 Americans killed or wounded and 1,000 taken prisoner. The British only lost 324 soldiers. Other battles in our area included the Battle of Sanders Creek, Gum Swamp, Hanging Rock and Hobkirk Hill. Seven years after the conflict began, George Washington defeated the British in Yorktown, Virginia. The siege and surrender was from September 28,1781 to October 19,1781.
The war officially ended when the Treaty of Paris was signed September 3, 1783. The countries who gave America help were Spain, France, and the Netherlands. They were our first allies.
July the 4th, 2026 will be the 250th anniversary of the signing of the 1776 Declaration of Independence. Since 2016, the 250th Project Commission has citizens in every county in every state working to plan activities leading up to this important date. It even has been nicknamed the Big 2-5-oh! Come celebrate!
References used in research for this article: Churches in South Carolina burned during the American Revolution a pictorial guide by Jim Neal and Bill Segers
A Sandhill Revelation- the history- legacy- legend of Blaney- Elgin South Carolina by Madge Black Strickland
South Carolina-a history by Walter Edgar
A Guide to Historical Sites in Kershaw County- Harvey Teal
testament to what we can achieve when we work together toward a common goal. I am confident that this budget will make a positive and lasting impact on our community.
I look forward to seeing the many benefits of this budget come to fruition and working together to make Kershaw County an even better place to live, work, and raise our families.
As always, if you have questions or concerns, please text or call me at 803-book page at www.facebook.com/councilmanshoemake (where I also share
Kershaw County School District Hosts Elevate 4K
On Saturday, June 29, Kershaw County School District hosted its 3rd annual "Elevate 4K" event for incoming four-year-old kindergarten students and their families at the Camden City Arena from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. KCSD received a Countdown to Kindergarten community partner grant from First Steps to go towards putting on this back to school transition event for the Kershaw County community.
During the event, all 4K students received a book bag, school supplies, books, healthy snacks and reading materials. The school district and community partners and sponsors also had tables set up with information and giveaways for fami-
• Neurological conditions 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
To learn more about our services, visit our website at MRRH.ernesthealth.com.
3D Mammography Comes To MUSC Kershaw Health
MUSC Health is excited to announce the addition of Genius®™ 3D Mammography™ exams to its comprehensive range of women's health services. Developed by Hologic, Inc., a global leader in the field, this cuttingedge technology is now available at the MUSC Health Elgin Medical Pavilion, making it one of the first locations in the state to offer this advanced mammogram system.
Key benefits of the Genius®™ 3D Mammography™ exam include:
• Detection of 20-65% more invasive breast cancers compared to 2D alone, resulting in an average increase of 41%.
• FDA approval as a superior option for women with dense breasts compared to 2D alone.
• A remarkable reduction in callbacks by up to 40% compared to 2D alone.
Tallulah Holmstrom, M.D., chief medical officer at MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center in Camden, expressed her enthusiasm for this groundbreaking technology, stating, “This is the Cadillac of mammography and an exciting step forward.” She added, “As medical technology is advancing, MUSC Health is making it available for Kershaw to advance and secure these tools so that our patients still have access to state-of-the-art care they would otherwise have to travel to receive.”
Located at the MUSC Health Elgin Medical Pavilion at 40 Pinnacle Pkwy in Elgin, this location is only 20 minutes from both Columbia and Camden. MUSC Health encourages all women 40+ and/or have risk factors to prioritize their breast health and take advantage of this innovative screening option. To schedule a mammogram at MUSC Health or for more information,
Staggered Start for 4K, 5K
Four- and five-year-old kindergartners will begin school on a staggered start schedule for the 20242025 school year.
Under Act 114 of 2024, Kershaw County School District is implementing an innovative approach to helping students adjust to difficult transition years with a 2024-2025 school calendar that provides a staggered start for four- and five-year-old kindergarten students.
This staggered start schedule for the first week of school will allow students to experience a smoother transition and allow staff members time to build strong relationships with students and parents in support of continued academic and social emotional growth.
These adjustments will help new students to elementary school reduce anxiety, build community, and start their formal education in Kershaw County School District in a smaller educational setting with more individualized attention. This time will allow teachers an opportunity to get to know students better and understand their personal strengths and needs through individual assessments, such as the state-mandated DIAL-4 and Kindergarten Readiness Assessment (KRA).
All KCSD four- and five-year-old kindergarten students will participate in a staggered entry process for the 2024-2025 school year and will attend school using the following schedule:
Thursday, August 1: Last names beginning with A–L attend school Friday, August 2: Last names beginning with M–Z attend school Monday, August 5: All four- and five-year-old kindergarten students attend school.
All 4K and 5K students will fully attend school daily on Monday, August 5, 2024.
Please note: This staggered start schedule does not apply to students in preschool special education programs at the following locations: Blaney Elementary, Doby’s Mill Elementary, Jackson School, Midway Elementary, Pine Tree Hill Elementary and Wateree Elementary. These students will begin school on Thursday, August 1.
Elgin's First Business of the Quarter
The Wateree River Festival returns on August 3rd with litter pick up around the Wateree River Veteran's Park, followed by fun and food. For more information on this event, visit @watereeriverfestival on Facebook, or palmettopride.org/event/wateree
Early Voting for the Kershaw County Council Chair Special Primary will be held at the voter registration office from July 22 to August 2, available Monday thru Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. We are planning to hold Early Voting at the office again for the following October Special Election as well, but the Statewide November General Election should see us holding Early Voting back at the Camden City Arena.
The United Way Mobile Pantry will be bringing grocery bags for any Kershaw County resident in need of assistance. Participants will be asked to show a picture ID as proof of residency, and with a brief application, the resident will be eligible for one bag per person every 14 days. Pick up at Elgin Town Hall Mondays from 2-3 pm.
Kershaw County Public Library July Events
Weekly Events
Weekly on Mondays
3 PM – 6 PM in Elgin
Anime & Art: Tweens & Teens can drop in to watch anime and create art! Use our art supplies or bring your own or just join us for great shows like One Piece, Dragon Ball Super, Fairy Tale, and more! Ages 12-17. Parent permission required. No Anime & Art will be held on Mon. July 22.
Weekly on Wednesdays
10:30 AM – 11 AM in Camden
Get Set to Read Storytime: Join us for stories, songs and fun. For ages 3-5. No storytime on Weds. July 17
Weekly on Wednesdays
11:15 AM – 12 PM in Camden
Baby Storytime: A fun time of stories, songs and movement for the very young. For ages 0-2. No storytime on Weds. July 17
Weekly on Thursdays
10:30 AM – 11 AM in Elgin
Get Set to Read Storytime: Join us for stories, songs and fun. For ages 3-5. No Storytime on Thurs. July 4.
Weekly on Thursdays
11:15 AM – 12 PM in Elgin
Baby Storytime: A fun time of stories, songs and movement for the very young. For ages 0-2. No Storytime on Thurs. July 4.
Events
Saturday, July 13 | 10 AM – 12 PM | Elgin
SaturYAY: Sunny Summer Butterflies: Kids can paint their own butterfly suncatcher to hang on their window at home. Supplies provided, but limited to 20. Registration required. To register, email hannag@kershawcountylibrary.org
Mon. July 15 – Fri. July 19 | 10 AM – 12 PM | Camden
Video Editing Camp: Begin a new adventure in video editing this week at the Camden library! Write a script, learn to film, and edit the film for a finished video product created by you! Limited to 8 participants ages 13+ Register by emailing laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org
Tuesday, July 16 | 4 PM – 6 PM | Elgin
Adult DIY: Crafty adults can drop in and join us for a mix of fun craft projects. No registration is required and materials are provided while they last! Ages 18+
Wednesday, July 17 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Camden
Preserving Flowers: Jasmine Winkler from the Down to Earth Co-op and Lifestyle Center will join us to show us how to preserve flowers for crafting. Please call the library at 803-425-1508 to register. Ages 18+
Thursday, July 18 | 4 PM – 5 PM | Camden Lego Club: Kids of all ages are welcome to join us to play with Legos at the library.
Saturday, July 20 | 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM | Camden
Adult Dungeons & Dragons: If you’ve always wanted to try the popular
RPG Dungeons & Dragons, this new group is for you! Every other Saturday we’ll have an ongoing campaign filled with fun for every level adventurer, from the newest player to the most seasoned pathfinder. For ages 18+ To join the waitlist, call 803-425-1508.
Monday, July 22 | 3:30 PM – 5 PM | Camden
Glow in the Dark Paint-along: Artist Beth Ryan will lead a painting adventure for teens ages 13-17 using glow in the dark paints. All materials are supplied except smocks. Please register by emailing laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org
Monday, July 22 | 5 PM – 6 PM | Elgin
Elgin Book Club: Come to our monthly book club where we’re reading The Book of Silver Linings by Nan Fischer. Request your copy at the front desk and join our discussion!
Tuesday, July 23 | 6 PM – 7 PM | Camden
Summer Seminars: Boost Your Money Management Skills for Your Small Business: Whether you're starting a new business or already managing one, it’s important to understand how to manage your business finances. Having good money management skills will help increase your business’s opportunity for success. This Grow with Google workshop will show you how to separate business and personal finances, track your business finances, understand cash flow and profit & loss. Plus, you'll learn about money management mistakes to avoid.
Thursday, July 25 | 5 PM – 6:30 PM | Camden
KCL Chess Club: Drop in for a chess club for all ages and skill levels! If you don’t know how to play, we offer free lessons for ages 8 to adult.
Thursday, July 25 | 6 PM – 7 PM | Camden
Camden Book Club: We will be discussing The Indigo Girl by Natasha Boyd. New members are always welcome. You can pick up a copy of this book at the Camden branch.
Friday, July 26 | 5 PM – 7 PM | Elgin
Summer Movie Night: Enjoy a movie at the Elgin library! This month, we’re enjoying a fun, family-friendly movie from the library’s streaming service Kanopy! Bring a blanket or beanbag, or sit with us in library chairs and enjoy a movie with family & friends.
Saturday, July 27 | 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, July 29 | 10 AM – 11:30 AM | Camden
Monday Merchant Meet-up: Small business owners can meet with others to learn about resources/tools to achieve business goals, brainstorm new ideas, and build partnerships. Important dates and events will be shared, as well as information from past seminars, by Main Street Manager Kat Spadacenta.
Tuesday, July 30 | 9 AM – 11 AM | Camden and Elgin
SC Works: If you’re looking to reenter the work force or need help with your career planning, drop by and see how SC Works can help.
Tuesday, July 30 | 4 PM – 5:30 PM | Elgin
Back to School DIY: It's about that time again, and we want to help you on the way to the best year! Join us to craft a dry-erase board for homework, sports, or whatever helps you succeed. For ages 6-18 (parental assistance needed for crafters under 12). Materials provided but limited. Sign up to save your spot by calling 803-438-7881 or email hannag@kershawcountylibrary.org
Wednesday, July 31 | 2 PM – 3 PM | Elgin
See Ya, Summer: The Elgin library is sending off the summer with an ice cream social! We’ll have varying flavors while supplies last.
Visit the Kershaw County Public library online at https://www.kershawcountylibrary.org or follow them on Facebook.
Master Deputy Brown Named KCSO Deputy of the Quarter
We are happy to announce KCSO Master Deputy Ray Brown as our Deputy of the Quarter (April-June 2024). Ray is a retired US Army Veteran. He has been with your KCSO for over two years and is currently assigned to the patrol division. Ray consistently exceeds standards at your KCSO and voluntarily comes in on his days off to help your investigative division. We look forward to Deputy Brown's continued service to the great citizens of Kershaw County.
Attorney Dennis N. Cannon, Jr.
Attorney Arien Cannon