Elgin News - 8A 2023

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 re jected 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

In this issue, we are excited to announce a new regular column from Kershaw County Council District 3 Representative, Derek Shoemake.

News From KC Council

By: Councilman Derek Shoemake

Lately, it seems like anyone who lives in Elgin or Lugoff can relate to the tongue-in-cheek quote attributed to Yankees great Yogi Berra: “Nobody goes there anymore. It's too crowded.”

Kershaw County, and particularly the West Wateree area, is an amazing place. I was honored to return here with my wife after my service in the Marines and raise the third generation of my family to live in Elgin - and the fifth generation to live in Kershaw County. Clearly, lots of people agree West Wateree is great. Elgin and Lugoff are growing faster than anywhere else in Kershaw County.

Just over four months ago, I was fortunate enough to become an elected member of Kershaw County Council. One of my top priorities is doing what I can to help the County manage the explosion of residential growth in a responsible way. In these last four months, we have made progress on these fronts.

First, I co-sponsored an ordinance that will increase minimum lot sizes. Currently, our densest zone allows for a maximum of 8.7 living units per acre. The new ordinance would make minimum lot sizes .33 acres only where sewer is available. In areas without sewer, which represents most of the County, the minimum lot size would be half an acre. I am sure many folks would like to go farther, but this is a step in the right direction. I anticipate this to pass, and it should be in effect by September.

Second, we are in the midst of a comprehensive zoning rewrite. This process will involve public input and will hopefully be completed by next year. One of the primary goals of this rewrite is to set the County up for responsible growth.

Third, we are addressing infrastructure and public services. Most of the paved roads in Kershaw County are handled by the State. Funding for these projects is handled through an entity called a Council of Governments, or COG. These COGs decide what projects get what funding.

Unfortunately, Elgin and Lugoff were long ago placed into the COG that includes Richland and Lexington. As a result, for at least the last several decades Elgin and Lugoff have seen virtually no funds for major road projects.

This has to stop. Council has requested that West Wateree be moved into the COG with the rest of the County and alongside our more rural neighboring counties. Thanks to the work of our Statehouse delegation, we are optimistic that this will occur before the end of the year. This should allow Elgin, and all of West Wateree better access to necessary road and other infrastructure funds.

Additionally, the most recent budget – which included no tax increases – was able to raise budgets for fire, emergency services, and the Sheriff's Department, while providing funding for sewer projects, the park at KC West, and Elgin’s new community center.

It has been a busy first four months on County Council. When I was federal prosecutor, I would often tell victims and their families that I could not guarantee an outcome, but I could guarantee my best efforts. I was fortunate enough that my efforts in seeking justice were successful. I make the same promise to the people of Kershaw County: I am only one of seven votes, but I promise to do my best to address the needs of this area.

If you have questions or concerns, please text or call me at 803-427-4929, email me at derek.shoemake@kershaw.gov, or visit my Facebook page (where I also share updates on County business).

We are crowded because people love it here. I love it here. But we must find a way to manage what I suspect is inevitable growth in Kershaw County without losing the very fabric of what makes this area such a great place to call home.

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 · Fred Davidson, Sales Manager · Email: elginnews@gmail.com

Chief's Desk

It’s hot! I don’t know about anyone else, but I’m about ready for Fall. In this Chief’s Desk, I would like to let everyone know about our new cameras that are being installed throughout Town. These are the same type cameras that are mounted at just about every major intersection in Richland County.

We have one camera already up at Potter

Community Park. It’s mounted to the picnic shelter, has a bright blue light and four cameras that see 360 degrees. We are installing a few more in various places in town. These cameras are not cheap, but our Town Council believes they are worth the price to keep and continue to help us keep Elgin safe. These cameras, in conjunction with all the existing business and residential cameras, will be a great tool in preventing and resolving crime. Thank you.

Elgin Police Department Incident Reports

Civil Disturbance: On 07/29/2023 at approximately 12:15 pm I, Officer Handy, responded to Jeffers Circle in reference to a Civil Disturbance. Once on the scene I was met in the yard of the home by Grandmother and Grandson who stated that Grandmother slapped him in his face with her hand. Grandson did have some redness on his right cheek, but that area of his face did have a temporary "Star Wars" tattoo that had the color of red in it. Grandmother stated that Grandson did hit her, because she took away his Xbox for being disrespectful. Grandmother stated that Grandson was on probation for pulling a knife on his grandfather. Grandmother also stated that she had reached her limits with Grandson and no longer wanted him in the home. I explained to Grandmother that because Grandson is only 14 yrs. old, Family Court/DSS would be the one, who would have to remove him from the home. Grandmother stated that she understood the process and she was very frustrated, because nothing was being done. Grandmother also stated that she had placed a phone call to Grandson's probation officer and was waiting on a return phone call. Grandmother agreed to give Grandson his Xbox back in order to keep the peace in the home.

Assault, Declined Prosecution: I was dispatched to a call on Church Street in the Town Limits of Elgin where Victim called and stated that Subject struck him on the leg with a chair. I arrived and spoke with Subject and Victim. Subject began talking about the incident and several other things and admitted to hitting Victim on the leg with a chair. Victim did not want to prosecute and Subject kept yelling and was very irate. I asked Subject if she would leave for a while until she calmed down and she did. I also warned her that if she kept yelling and did not calm down when she returned, she would be arrested for disturbing the peace.

Domestic Violence: Officer was dispatched to a call at Gyromania in the Town Limits of Elgin about a black male with blood all over him and asking for help. As I was going to Gyromania, I located the man who was in my lane and I almost hit him with my vehicle. I turned around and got out with the subject and spoke with Victim. He had what appeared to be road rash on his shoulder and other places. I asked him if he needed EMS and he refused. I ran him through dispatch and he was clear. I then asked him what happened. He then stated that his girlfriend is pregnant and he was the passenger in his vehicle. He then stated that his girlfriend became irate and began hitting him. Victim then stated he jumped out of the car in one of the parking lots between Gyromania and Highway 1 Tattoo. Victim would not tell me who his girlfriend was, did not want to press charges, and refused to cooperate, and the initial incident took place somewhere between Richland County and Elgin Town Limits. Victim stated that he was homeless and had no phone. I was finally able to get him to let EMS examine him, and I called for EMS. After they examined him and he refused to go to the hospital, I offered Victim a ride to the Shell Station on US 1 and Spears Creek

Road. I took him there and cleared the scene.

Unlawful Carry of a Pistol: While on patrol in the jurisdiction of the Town of Elgin, OFC Picciuolo observed a white in color Toyota Tacoma traveling southbound on Main St. As the Toyota left the traffic light it swerved hard left as it crossed over the Church Street intersection, into the oncoming lane. A traffic stop was initiated and the final traffic stop was in the Elgin Pharmacy parking lot. The driver was identified as Subject. Officer noticed that Subject was having a lot of trouble finding items in his vehicle, such as his license, registration, and insurance paperwork. While Subject was fumbling through his paperwork, Officer observed a black in color handgun on the driver's side floorboard. Officer ordered Ham out of the truck. Subject was very slow to respond and actually rolled up his window before exiting the vehicle. After Subject was on the outside of his vehicle, Officer explained what he had seen to Subject. At about this time, Subject's mother came up to the traffic stop. She stated something to the effect of "I was worried sick about you". I allowed Subject and his mother to talk while I ran Subject's information and the firearm serial number through Kershaw Dispatch. Subject and the firearm came back clear. While conducting his in car investigation, Officer overheard Subject state to his mother that "he hadn't been asleep in three days". Officer then made the decision to disallow Subject from driving from the traffic stop location. Subject and his mother were informed that Officer was not going to charge ham for DUI, but that Officer believed that he could not drive due to slow reaction and lack of sleep. Subject and his mother called other family members to pick up Subject and the truck.

Disturbance, Family: Officer was dispatched to Church St. address in the Town Limits of Elgin in reference to a civil disturbance. Complainant stated that Subject was beating on the door to a room where Complainant and Owner #2 were occupying. Upon my arrival, I met with Subject, Owner #2, and Complainant sitting in the yard. Subject was yelling at Complainant and Owner #2, telling them they needed to leave. Complainant and Owner #2 were, for the most part, ignoring Subject. Once Officer made contact, Subject stated that Complainant needed to leave, as she did not want him there. I explained to Subject, as I have several times in the past, that I could not make Complainant leave, as he was an invited and welcome guest of Owner #2. I advised her that the home and property belong to Owner #2 just as much as her, and that Owner #2 was allowed to have anyone she chooses as a guest. Officer cleared and was dispatched back to Church St. less than 10 minutes later. Officer decided to get some snacks for everyone and went back to Church St. address where he sat with the three parties and had a conversation until Owner #2 and Complainant needed to leave. Officer believes that this gave all parties time to be heard and to vent their frustrations.

The Patriarch of the LEHS Family

By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer

It was almost as if we knew that this would be the last time we would all be together in the LEHS stadium.

When I saw him that summer evening, Willie Mickle told Tammy Kirkley and me to come “sit a spell” with him in a golf cart before the halftime ceremony in LEHS stadium that honored him on his birthday last August 13. We talked and laughed. He told us both what we meant to him, and thanked us for being a part of his life.

I have often been asked what it was that made LEHS seem like a family. I have your answer in this article.

My principal Willie Mickle was a delegator. He taught me to always dare to ask "why not?" He encouraged me to give my best efforts and set goals.

What an epic goal was reached in February 1985 when the number one TV soap star came to LEHS stadium for our journalism fundraiser.

I remember our conversation. “There are celebrities who do benefits. If I can get through to Peter Reckell, I can talk him into it. Ask any girl who she wants to meet, and she will tell you Bo Brady. Go and pick up any teen magazine and his face will be on the cover.”

“Well, Liz,” Willie asked me, “If that is so, why would this star agree to come here?” Mr. Mickle smiled and said, “You can try. I believe in you and our students.”

The rest is history because LE pulled off this event and raised over $35,000 that day. The school and community made the national news.

Another memory also happened in February, but this time in 1992. The school was “On the Move” (yearbook theme). Next year, we would be in the new building on the other side of our stadium and like Moses, Mr. Mickle talked with the faculty/students about moving to “the promised land.” He had helped with all the plans for the new facilities so why would he not be there?

I recall arriving at school early that morning. I walked into the office to

check my mailbox; I saw that Mr. Mickle was in his office alone. It looked like he had a headache because he was rubbing his eyes.

I stopped and asked him if everything was all right. Glenn Price was also in the office making a phone call, and he heard me talking to Willie. He decided not to make the call when he heard the concern in my voice.

Willie called us both in his office and asked us to shut the door. He had some news for us.

Willie was to leave Lugoff Elgin within a week and be transferred to the district office. He did not know who was going to replace him. How did we think the faculty would react when he told them?

I asked him how he thought the students would react. Glenn and I promised him that we would find a way to keep him at LEHS.

In a matter of weeks, the decision was overturned after a highly publicized campaign with the media (TV, radio, newspapers local and national) along with student/community protests at the school board meetings. Mr. Mickle finished out the school year and handed the Class of ‘92 their diplomas.

Last November, at Mr. Mickle’s funeral, Pastor Todd Horton shared this poem.

“Willie Mickle was known for his coaching, challenging, and caring. He influenced many young people over the years with their lives bearing. He coached baseball, football, basketball, and track. For all athletics, he had a love and a knack. As a good coach he could change the outcome of a game, but for many he helped change the direction of life’s aim. As an educator he challenged both students and teachers. He was always their fan in the bleachers. He showed his love by caring for all, great and small, with the exception of not always caring for the umps and referee’s calls. He coached, challenged, and cared for his family always. It seemed they were his All Stars and Dream Team. “

He was proud that friends, family, and former students surrounded him that night last August. He believed in family. Our faculty reunion has continued for over twenty years because he made us a family. Principal Willie Mickle: LE’s first football coach, long time educator, and the athlete who brought home to Camden three state championships in his senior year, and

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY PRESENTS:

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

'Cola Wars' Returns

Each year, middle and high school students from all over Kershaw County, and beyond, come together for a time of Christ-exalting, high-energy, fun! The event is put together and sponsored by First Baptist Camden with the support of the FCA program at Camden High School. Students are divided into two cola-themed teams and engage each night in thrilling, field-type activities; such as Big Ball Volleyball, Cola Chug, Tug of War, and Cola Toss. Each evening also includes a dynamic speaker and worship. This year over 330 students attended and the event was put on by more than 70 volunteers. The purpose of the event is to encourage students and provide them with an opportunity to hear the Gospel.

• 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.

Photos courtesy Johnny Deal, BowTie Photography.

KC Good Neighbor Award Ft. Clark Baptist Church Life Center / Food Bank

The Ft. Clark Baptist church Community Life Center / Food Bank is located at 424 Veterans Row, Elgin. The Center will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 10 am - 1 pm. The purpose of the Center is to give help to those in need of food and clothing in the community.

Additionally, the Emergency Food Assistance Program is available to lowincome residents at no cost. Please call 803.427.8253.

Fire Fest Returning to Camden

Fire Fest 2023 is Saturday, September 30! The parade downtown starts at 9 am, ending at Camden City Arena, 420 Broad Street.

Fire Fest takes place from 9 am – 1 pm. See and touch antique fire trucks, enjoy games for all ages, watch firefighting demonstrations, competitions and other local entertainment. Admission is free, so that citizens and visitors can learn about the importance of fire prevention and fire safety. Fire Fest is the kick off for annual Fire Prevention Week™.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week™ campaign is “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention™.” Did you know that cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries? Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires and deaths.

Interested in being a sponsor or exhibitor of Fire Fest? Visit www.experiencecamdensc.com/event/firefest for an application.

Senior Adults Can Attend School-Sponsored Events Free

Kershaw County citizens age 65 years or older can receive lifetime Golden Circle passes that allow them to attend school-sponsored activities or athletic events free of charge. The passes are good from year to year. Admission to athletic playoffs is not included.

Golden Circle passes are available at all three high schools — Camden High, Lugoff-Elgin High and North Central High. Interested persons should contact the main office at each school for more information. (Camden High: 803-425-8930; Lugoff-Elgin High: 803-438-3481; and North Central High: 803-432-9858).

Cathcart Participates in National Teacher Ambassador Program

Audrey Cathcart, an agricultural education teacher at the Woolard Technology Center of Kershaw County, was among a select group of teachers from throughout the nation to participate in a National Teacher Ambassador Program at the National FFA Headquarters in Indianapolis, IN in July. The program is designed to provide teachers with information to share with others about the FFA Organization and Agricultural Education. Mrs. Cathcart will present communication workshops for agricultural educators and FFA advisors throughout South Carolina during the next school year. Mrs. Cathcart is a graduate of Clemson University with a BS degree in Agricultural Education. She is also a graduate of Francis Marion University with a Master’s in Education.

The Good Neighbor Award is intended to showcase good deeds by citizens in the county. Too many times we see the negativity and evil happening in the world and not enough of the compassion and good. Everyone has the potential to be a superhero. You never know what kind of a battle someone is fighting internally. A kind word or deed could change the world for that person. That’s what Good Neighbors do.

If you know of someone that has done a good deed for another, please submit it to us. Our team of volunteers will read and vet all submissions and pick three finalists from each District. Each Council Member will pick the winner from their District then the chair will pick that quarter’s winner.

To nominate a Good Neighbor, go to www.kershaw.sc.gov, then...

 Click County Council  then Good Neighbor Award

It is important to note that the Council Members will not know the identity of the citizens they choose from until the presentation.

The deadlines for submissions are listed below. Presentations will be held on the 2nd Council Meeting of the month following the deadline.

Q1 Deadline – June 1 - Aug. 31

Q2 Deadline – Sept. 1– Nov. 30

Q3 Deadline – Dec. 1 - Feb. 28

Q4 Deadline – Mar. 1 – May 31

Camden Square Dancing Event

The Camden Square Dancers invite you to their FREE Square Dance Party on Thursday, August 31, 2023. The event will start at 7:30 PM and end at 9:30 PM, and will be held at the Kershaw County Recreation Center, 1042 W DeKalb St, Camden. Check out their website – camdensquaredance.com. Call (803) 420-8008 with any questions!

KC Farmers Market Celebrates 'National

Farmers Market Week' Post 195

Update

Kershaw County Farmers Market, located in Camden, SC will join markets across the country in celebrating National Farmers Market Week from August 6-12, 2023. On August 12 from 9 a.m. until noon, the market will celebrate with over 60 vendors and include events such as live music, a Bake Off, a raffle with prizes, City of Camden community Christmas coloring event, farm-to-school coloring books, photo op, and more.

At our deadline, the KCFM ranks #2 in the country and #1 in the state for America’s Favorite Farmers Market. Voting will be available until September 18, 2023, and can be done at The Kershaw County Farmers Market or online at https://markets.farmland.org/market/kershaw-county-farmersmarket/.

The Kershaw County Farmers Market began in April 1999 and currently hosts 10-12 annual/seasonal farmers who grow and sell a wide variety of fresh, seasonal produce, fresh chicken, eggs, beef, pork and lamb products. Additionally, nursery and greenhouse vendors offer vegetable plants, herbs, pollinator plants, and landscaping plants and trees to patrons with a passion for gardening and growing. Many of the KCFM farmers hold Certified South Carolina grown, USDA Certified, and Certified Naturally Grown credentials.

A diverse market, the KCFM is also an excellent place to find local handmade goods, such as soap and bath bombs, jewelry, home décor, and dog treats, to name a few. Food Trucks round out the market with delicious BBQ, shaved ice, lemonade, and coffee, Thai cuisine, and steak sandwiches. KCFM also boasts the best Kettle Corn in the South and has unique finds, such as handmade caned furniture.

The KCFM has doubled in size this year with the help of vendors and volunteers. It is supported by the local community, volunteers, and Girl Scout Troop #968. The KCFM has established annual vendors and is preparing for its first “off season market” from January to March. The KCFM is also arranging to have a Food Truck Friday once a month at the market. The Holiday Market will take place on December 9, 2023, and will feature over 100 vendors ready to help guests prepare for the holidays.

The KCFM also gives back to the community by hosting community craft projects and providing a blessing box for the community. Every November and December, the market adopts a family and supports it with a food drive and holiday help. The market also accepts senior vouchers and is working on accepting SNAP benefits for next season.

“As the market manager of Kershaw County Farmers Market, I truly value the vendors, volunteers, and community because they are what makes our market unique,” said Dorothy Butterson Davis, manager of the KCFM. “Our vendors not only support the community, but they support our market in ways from donations, volunteering, helping other vendors, celebrating vic tories & mourning losses together, and much more that makes (KCFM) a hidden gem of the county.”

The KCFM is a non-profit 501c3 organization and provides a great way for individuals and businesses to get involved with agriculture and tourism through volunteering and support. The market will celebrate its 25th anni versary in 2024.

“Farmers markets are changing the way we eat, shop, connect, and more,” said Ben Feldman, Policy Director of the Farmers Market Coalition. “Across the country, farmers markets are defining their role in our communities. Mar kets are designed in partnership with the people they serve and are a place where market operators, farmers, shoppers, and neighbors can collaborate to meet the evolving needs of their community. Throughout National Farmers Market Week 2023, we will be highlighting the ways farmers markets are making change in communities nationwide. Join us!”

Beginning a busy seven days, Saturday, 22 July 2023, saw American Legion Post 195 in Lugoff hosting the Legion's South Carolina District 11 quarterly meeting. Representatives of all three Kershaw County posts (17 - Camden, 195, and 203 - Camden) attended as well as other posts from surrounding counties.

The next Thursday night, 27 July 2023, saw Post 195 swear in its new slate of officers for 2023-24 year. This year's slate includes post commander Claude “Cliff” Turner, 1st Vice Commander Robert “Bob” Levangie, 2nd

Officer Lee Richards.

The meeting also welcomed as distinguished guests the young women and men sponsored by Post 195 and its Auxiliary who attended Palmetto Girls and Boys States. Palmetto Girls State was hosted the second week of June at Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina. Boys State was hosted at the same time by Anderson University in its namesake city, also in South Carolina. The week culminated with a parade of both groups down Main Street in Columbia ending at the State Capitol.

Attending Palmetto Girls State were Collen Ashley, Eva Hoagland, and Shana Turner. Palmetto Boys State attendees were Jacob Kervin and Seth Turner. All were from Lugoff-Elgin High School. Todd McDonald, Director of Admissions for Palmetto Boys and Girls State also spoke concerning the impact of the programs on the young people involved in the past and in the future.

Above: Administering the oath is post commander Claude “Cliff” Turner. The officers being sworn in are (L-R) 1st Vice Commander Robert “Bob” Levangie, Adjutant Ruppert Baird, Chaplain Colleen Morrow, 2nd Vice Commander Malcolm Baxley, Veterans Service Officer Jan Barkan, Sergeant at Arms William “Bill” Neubert, and Chief Financial

The Post 195 Auxiliary's Dee Melton (L) and Post 195's Claude Turner (R) pose with Palmetto Boys and Girls State attendees (L-R) Jacob Kervin, Shana Turner, Eva Hoagland, Collen Ashley, and Seth Turner Thursday night at the post's Heil Hall event facility.

Kershaw County Sheriff 's Department, along with various other county agencies, again participated in National Night Out on August 1st.

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. National Night

Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community.

Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

For more information on National Night Out: https://natw.org/about/

Dennis N. Cannon, Jr.

Arien Cannon