Elgin News - 8B 2023

Letter Submissions

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Letters to the Editor

The Elgin News

P.O. Box 152

Elgin, SC 29045

From The Mayor's Desk

By: Mayor Melissa Brazell Emmons

Note: From The Mayor’s Desk is submitted by Mayor Melissa Emmons and is not the official minutes of the Elgin Town Council.

The monthly meeting of the Elgin Town Council took place on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, at 6:00pm with Mayor Melissa Emmons presiding. Present were Mayor Melissa Emmons, Councilman Brad Hanley, Councilwoman Dana Sloan, Councilwoman Cristy Bradley, Chief Alan Anders, Attorney John Wells, and Elgin’s Town Clerk, Becky Summey.

The Invocation was given by Mayor Melissa Emmons and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, which was led by Councilman Brad Hanley.

A motion was made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilwoman Dana Sloan to approve the minutes from the regular scheduled meeting on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, with a unanimous vote from Council. A motion was made by Councilwoman Cristy Bradley, 2nd by Councilman Brad Hanley to approve the minutes from the Special Business Meeting on July 18, 2023, with a unanimous vote from Council. A motion was made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilwoman Dana Sloan to approve the minutes from the Special Business Meeting on July 20, 2023, with a unanimous vote from Council.

There was no one signed up to speak during the Public Forum.

The following New Business License Applications were approved in July 2023: (1). CoolSys Commercial and Industrial, Inc., (2) Cornerstone Servicemen, LLC., (3) Bulldog Wrecker, LLC., (4) Bubba’s Fencing and Landscaping, and (5) Miller’s Outdoor Enhancement. Please remember to support the businesses in our community and when possible, shop locally.

The following Charity Event Request Application was approved for July 2023: (1) Demon Elite Football and Cheer. If you or your organization wishes to hold a fundraising event in the Town of Elgin, please remember to check with Elgin Town Hall about completing a Charity Permit Request Form prior to the event taking place. There were no Complaints for July 2023. There was no need for a Public Hearing.

In Old Business under Elgin Community Center Update (placed on the agenda by Councilman Brad Hanley), Councilman Hanley provided Council with an update and informed everyone of a recent meeting with representatives from the Blaney/Elgin Museum to discuss the layout of their area and get some clarification on how they planned on displaying items. He also discussed a recent meeting that took place with some of the residents that reside in the vicinity of the park and some concerns/issues that they had and items that needed follow-up attention.

In New Business, Chief Alan Anders discussed the monthly report updates with Council and informed them of future signage that will be installed at the park to designate a specific parking area for those visiting the park. He also provided an update on the Flock Camera that included data since installation.

Potter Community Park Security Update (placed on the agenda by Mayor Melissa Emmons)-Chief Anders informed Council that the surveillance camera system had been installed at the park and was functioning. He also requested Council’s permission to install additional surveillance cameras in specific areas of the town. After some discussion, Councilman Brad Hanley made a motion to approve an additional (4) cameras at the expense of $150 per month, 2nd by Councilwoman Cristy Bradley, with a unanimous vote from Council.

Planning and Zoning and Zoning Board of Appeals Vacancies (placed on the agenda by Mayor Melissa Emmons)-Mayor Emmons recommended Brian Bradley for appointment to the Town of Elgin Planning and Zoning Commission. A motion to approve the recommendation was made by Councilwoman Cristy Bradley, 2nd by Councilwoman Dana Sloan, with a unanimous vote from Council. Mayor Emmons informed Council that there are still (2) vacancies on the Planning and Zoning Commission and (3) vacancies on the Town of Elgin Zoning Board of Appeals Commission.

See MAYOR'S DESK, 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 · Fred Davidson, Sales Manager · Email: elginnews@gmail.com

Chief's Desk

It’s that time of year again, time for the Toy Round-Up Run/Walk. This is our 6th annual 5k, and it’s scheduled for September the 23rd at 8 am. Location will be the same as last year, Blaney Elementary School, 1621 Smyrna Rd. Elgin, SC 29045. You can register at strictlyrunning. com.

We hope to have another packed event as the previous years. All pro-

ceeds go to the Elgin Toy Roundup and Caring Hands Foundation. So, bring the entire family, all ages are welcome. We look forward to seeing everyone come out and participate, get some exercise and meet new people from our community.

Toy Round-Up Run/Walk | September 23 | 8 am | Blaney Elementary

Elgin Police Department Incident Reports

FLOCK Camera Hit/Warrant: On 08/07/23, at approximately 3:29 pm, I, Officer Handy received a FLOCK camera hit on a white in color Honda Civil bearing SC tag. The camera gave the location of the vehicle at Hwy 1 near Emmanuel St. headed southbound. Officer made contact with the vehicle at Main St. and Ross St. and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle based on the information given by the FLOCK camera that the vehicle was associated with someone who was entered as a NCIC wanted person. The driver of the vehicle was Subject, who was the individual who was wanted by the Richland County Sheriff's Department. Subject's driver's license was suspended and this was confirmed through Kershaw County Dispatch. I issued Subject two citations; speeding 50/35 mph and Driving Under Suspension 1st. I then transported Subject to the Kershaw/Richland County line and Richland County took her into custody.

Civil Disturbance: Once on the scene, Officer was meet in the yard by Subject who stated that she wanted her brother-in-law, Complainant, out of her daddy's house. I asked Subject how long has he been living here and she stated four years. I asked Subject was she taking her medication and she replied 'no", I also asked her if she wanted to hurt herself or go to the hospital, and she again replied "no." I proceeded to the back door where Complainant was exiting the home. I asked Complainant what was going on and he stated that Subject began arguing over a drinking glass that he was drinking orange juice out of. Complainant stated that this is an everyday thing and he did not want to deal with her tonight and that's why he called law enforcement. I asked Complainant if the argument had gotten physical and they both replied "no." Both parties agreed to separate for the night and I returned back to service.

Illegal Dumping: On 08-09-2023, Manager of IGA deli department stated that an unknown person dumped trash into their dumpster, filled it up making it hard for her to put IGA trash in the dumpster. Officer went through the trash and found the name of Subject #1 on a label addressed to Driftwood Ave. residence. Officer went by the address and talked with Subject #2 and she stated that she and her husband, Subject #1, took the trash with them this morning. Officer talked with Subject #1 by ring camera and he stated that the trash dump was close this morning and he had to go to the store and pick some items up when he saw the dumpster behind the store and put the trash in it. Subject #2 admitted to the trash dumping and asked R/O to write her the UTT due to her involvement and her husband being unavailable. R/O has the interview on BC.

FLOCK Camera Hit/Stolen Vehicle: On 08-06-2023, Officer received a Flock hit at Emmanuel St. and Main St. in the Town Limits of Elgin on a stolen vehicle. Officer saw the vehicle at Rose St. and stopped the black 2022 Honda at the recycle center on US 1. Officer made contact with the driver, Victim, the owner of the vehicle that stated she just got her vehicle back from the city of Columbia less then and hour ago where it was found. Officer confirm though dispatch the vehicle was clear.

Narcotics Overdose / Assist Other Agency: OFC Picciuolo assisted KCSO/KCEMS with an opioid overdose patient who was located at White Pond Rd, in the County of Kershaw. OFC Picciuolo was already close to White Pond Road address when the call came out and he was able to respond emergent. The overdose patient was identified as Subject and was prone on the floor of the home and not breathing. Subject had lost control of his bladder, had a thready (weak) pulse, and his lips were cyanotic (bluish-grey). A male subject in the home was improperly performing chest compressions (CPR) when OFC Picciuolo arrived. OFC Picciuolo identified the aforementioned signs of opioid overdose with respiratory distress and rapidly administered Subject two doses of internasal Narcan, 2MG per dose (left nasal passage and right nasal passage). This did not immediately reverse the effects of the overdose and KCFD/ KCEMS began using a BVM with supplemental O2 to breathe for Subject. Shortly after bagging Subject, KCFD administered another 2MG dose of Narcan which almost immediately begun bringing Subject out of overdose conditions. Subject rapidly revived, beginning breathing on his own and stood up. Emergency medical intervention was ceased. Subject repeatedly denied taking any narcotics. OFC Picciuolo cleared the scene. Subject has a history of drug use and has regularly overdosed.

Unlawful Passing / No SCDL: On 08/17/2023, Cpl. Delong was monitoring traffic on Main St., following up on several complainants of vehicles passing on the right. While doing so, Officer observed a black Nissan truck pass a vehicle on the right as it was waiting to turn left onto Pine St. Officer activated blue lights and stopped the vehicle in front of Liberty Tax Service. Officer approached the vehicle and explained the reason for the stop. Officer requested the drivers license, registration,and insurance. The driver then stated he only had a passport that identified him to be Subject. Officer then ran Subject through dispatch and confirmed he did not have a SCDL. At that point Subject was issued a citation for Unlawful Passing and No SCDL. Subject and his vehicle were picked up by a licensed driver.

Meet Denise Hildreth Jones Camden Native, Author, Inspirational Speaker

By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer

“It is vital we understand the significance of our own life story. I love the word ‘reclaimed’. It has this strength to it; it's the name of our ministry Reclaiming Hearts.”

Denise Goude Hildreth Jones, Camden High ‘87, the University of South Carolina, ’92 School of Journalism is more than a beauty queen. After graduation she wanted to go to Nashville to sing Christian music. However, that door never opened. Her first job in Nashville was at a heating and air conditioning company where she was a receptionist, then she was promoted to the advertising department.

A few months into her new position, she started writing her first book Savannah from Savannah (published 2004). Denise said, “I worked on Savannah for about two years. The editing time took longer because they weren't pleased with the first editor. I had to go through a second round of line edits, but after that, the entire process usually takes about a year from start to finish.”

The First Gardener (published 2011) she believes is her best fiction writing. (I recently read the sweet tear-jerker.) Nonfiction takes longer because it must be written from the heart. Denise wrote an article about a local ministry called Ministry Mercies of America for her church magazine. The founder of that ministry read the article, called Denise and asked her to come help finish her memories that she was writing.

Denise said, “I told her that I don't write. She said to me I think you do! That began a journey of writing for other people ten years before my first novel was published. Teaching the Bible happened the same way. The youth pastor at that same church called me one day and asked me to come lead a new college and career ministry. I told him that I don't teach.”

The youth pastor said, “I think you do!”

That began a journey of teaching and ministering at women’s and adults’

MAYOR'S DESK, continued from Page 2

In Council Briefing, the following reports were provided: Councilwoman Cristy Bradley discussed her recent attendance at the MASC Annual Meeting and expressed how beneficial it was for her. Councilman Brad Hanley had no report. Councilwoman Dana Sloan had no report. Mayor Melissa Emmons reminded everyone of the Town Hall Meeting scheduled for August 10, 2023, at 6:00 in the Gym at Blaney Baptist Church that has been

events. After thirteen years of marriage, Denise ‘s world fell apart. She realized she had become a shell of a woman that God created. Denise went on a desperate search to come back to life. The journey was documented in her memoirs Flying Solo (published 2010), and then the principles were written in Reclaiming Your Heart- a journey back to laughing, loving, and living.

Denise said, “After writing that book, my husband Philly and I felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit to start Reclaiming Hearts Ministries. My favorite motivational scripture is Proverbs 4:23."

(Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.). I believe it is the life source of what I have in my heart, the greatest responsibility, place of protection and guiding principle for what I'm called to do in ministry. Above all else, guard your heart for it affects everything you would do.”

Denise continued, “I tell women today what I think is of most value in today's environment is to guard your heart. Culture comes at our young women relentlessly because they have such value. You don't have to guard something that doesn't have value so guard your heart. Guard it from insecurity. Guard it from fear. Guard it from selling yourself short. Guard it from living driven instead of living led. Guarding it from thinking money or success is the answer. Peace is the answer.”

I am thankful I purchased her devotional study guide/workbook Good Monday Morning (published 2019). It has helped me face the happy and the sad days of our lives. It seems as if Denise and I are having a conversation as I read her words. Every Monday morning, Denise shares a 5–8-minute devotion on the Facebook page Reclaiming Hearts Ministry. Our readers may purchase any of the books I have mentioned on her web site Reclaiming Hearts.org or through Amazon.

Denise attended school both in Camden and Lugoff-Elgin (fourth and fifth grades). She remembers the deep friendships, precious memories of wonderful teachers, and Friday Night Football games. I remember her singing “Where the Boys Are” at the Mr. LE contest.

Denise who has published eight fiction and three nonfiction books said, “I think there's a novel in my future set in Kershaw County.”

by Councilwoman Dana Sloan, with a unanimous vote from Council. Our next regular scheduled meeting will be on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at 6:00 pm. I encourage everyone to try to attend our monthly meetings so you can stay informed and find ways to get involved. And if you miss a meeting, check out our website at www.townofelginsc.com, where we list agendas, minutes from meetings and the calendar of events.

Also, we now broadcast our monthly council meetings live on the “Town of Elgin” Facebook Page. Just remember that when you are informed, you are

'Just A Chicken' Authors Visit LES

Authors Langston Moore and Preston Thorne, former Gamecock football players, shared their book, Just a Chicken Little, with students at Lugoff Elementary School.

2023 Demon Fest

Lugoff-Elgin High School (LEHS) hosted their back-to-school event "Demon Fest" on Saturday, August 12, 2023 in conjunction with the LEHS Junior Varsity Football Jamboree. The community enjoyed concessions, games, student performances, and a "Meet the Demons" spotlight on the school's fall athletes. Photos courtesy Shana Turner, Georgia Young and Sharei omas.

Auto, Motorcycle & Truck Accidents • Workers’ Comp

Personal Injury & Death • Criminal Law

Business Law • Real Estate Law

• Nursing Home Abuse

Medical Malpractice • Probate, Wills & Estates

All State & Federal Courts

Serving Kershaw County for over 30 Years

ATTORNEYS:

JOSEPH N. CONNELL | J. BEN CONNELL | DEREK SHOEMAKE

Schedule a FREE consultation today.

sors who supported this event. For more information, and to join next year's event, follow them on Facebook @watereeriverfestival.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE: TOWN OF ELGIN

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be conducted by the Elgin Town Council at Elgin Town Hall, located at 2469 Main Street, Elgin, South Carolina on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at 6:00 PM for the purpose of the revision of the Town of Elgin’s Comprehensive Plan. Anyone having questions about the revision, please contact Elgin Town Hall at 803-438-2362.

El-Bethel Church Fall Bazaar

El-Bethel Faith Community Church’s Fall Bazaar, sponsored by the Ladies Ministry, will be held on Saturday, October 14th, from 8am until 2pm, at El-Bethel Faith Community Church, 905 Longtown Rd., Lugoff.

The Bazaar will once again host the popular “Indoor yard sale”, which includes many gently used and new items for the home, as well as outdoor items. In addition, vendors will be selling wonderful gift items such as beautiful wreaths, arts and crafts, jewelry, Christmas items, collectibles, and many

Delicious homemade baked goods will also be sold. There will be sausage biscuits for breakfast and BBQ plates for lunch. All proceeds from this event will be used for needs within the church family and the community. If you have questions, please contact church secretary, Julie Keith at ebfaithnews@gmail.com or via telephone at 803-427-7187.

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.

DME SRO Benenhaley

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.

Front Office Mrs. Stuckey "Mrs. Stuckey who multitasks in the front office and is very pleasant and helpful. She is always willing to lend a hand wherever she is needed!"

Kershaw County Library September Events

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.

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.

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.

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.

Events

Friday, September 1 | 6 PM – 10 PM | Camden

Open Game Night: KCL invites gamers ages 12-18 to come enjoy tabletop RPG and strategy-based board games at Open Game Night! Teens will have access to our selection of games and also be able to participate in oneshot adventure RPGs, hosted by our gaming coordinator, Mark. Seats are limited so RSVP to save your teen's spot. To RSVP, email markw@kershawcountylibrary.org

Thursday, September 7 | 4 PM – 5 PM | Elgin

Totes - My Library: If you love books and crafting, you’ll totes love this DIY. We’re giving you a tote and free reign with our fabric markers, paint, rhinestones, ribbons, and more to make a fabulous bag for all of your library books. Ages 12 to adult. Sign up required, as space is limited. Email hannag@ kershawcountylibrary.org

Friday, September 8 | 10 AM – 10:45 AM | Camden

Homeschoolers’ Club: Back to School: Time for the new school year meet & greet where we’ll tour the library, play a game, and show and tell something very special to you! Ages 5-8.

Friday, September 8 | 11:15 AM – 12 PM | Camden

Homeschoolers’ Club 2: Back to School: Time for the new school year meet & greet where we’ll tour the library, play a game, and show and tell something very special to you! Ages 9-12.

Friday, September 8 | 1 PM – 2 PM | Camden

Middler Meets: Join KCL for a new program for ages 12 and up that incorporates games to encourage learning. This month’s activity is Puzzle Pandemonium where we’ll team up to see which group can complete their puzzle first! Sign up by email: laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org

Saturday, September 9 | 10 AM – 12 PM | Elgin

SaturYAY: Love My Library: This month we’ll be crafting our own library card holders out of felt and ribbon! If time permits, we’ll also craft fun book character bookmarks! Designed for ages 4-10, but older kids welcome! Supplies are limited, please sign up via email: hannag@kershawcountylibrary.org

Tuesday, September 12

2 PM – 3 PM in Camden

Master Gardener: Soil for Organic Gardening: Jackie Jordan, Master Gardener Coordinator for Fairfield, Kershaw and Richland Cooperative Extension Offices, will be here to talk about improving soil for organic gardens. Come grow with us!

Wednesday, September 13 | 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, September 14 | 5 PM – 6:30 PM | 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.

Friday, September 15 | 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Camden

Little Explorers’ Club: Fall Friendship: Bring your little explorer to make magical friendship bracelets! All materials supplied. For ages 2-5.

Monday, September 18 | 5 PM – 6 PM | Elgin

Law Talk: Starting a Business: Join KCL and the SC Bar for a law talk explaining the legal side of starting your own business. Get useful tips & tricks, and take notes on what to do to get the ball rolling. Save your free spot by calling 803-438-7881 to sign up today. The Law Talk will consist of a 30–40-minute lecture presentation, followed by an open question and answer session. Law talks are designed to provide general legal information, not to provide guidance on your specific situation. The free clinics are sponsored by the South Carolina Bar Public Services Division.

Tuesday, September 19 | 9 AM – 6 PM | Elgin

Talk Like A Pirate Day: Ahoy me hearties! Dock yer ship at the Elgin branch to smuggle away yer own pirate take-and-make on Talk like a Pirate Day! The treasure inside will help ye make yer own ship or sea-worthy hat. Yo ho ho, let’s have some fun!

Tuesday, September 19 | 4:30 PM – 5 PM | Elgin

Caring for your Chompers: Celebrate National Gum Care Month with D. Berger Dental of Elgin to learn how to best care for your teeth! We’ll learn brushing/flossing, read a book (or watch a movie), and the first 15 kids will get a free Chomper Care Kit (while supplies last)! Ages 4-8.

Thursday, September 21 | 4 PM – 5 PM | Camden

Lego Club: Come on in and let’s have fun with Legos! All ages are welcome for free play inside.

Saturday, September 23 | 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, to Ticket to Ride… we’ve got what you’ll love. Play together, in a quiet area, or on our enclosed porch. All ages welcome.

Monday, September 25 | 5 PM – 6 PM | Elgin

Elgin Book Club: Join us in Elgin for our branch book club! We’ll be reading Last Carolina Girl by Meagan Church. Pick up your copy at the Elgin front desk!

Wednesday, September 27 | 4 PM – 5 PM | Elgin

Upcycled Books: Keeping Secrets: If you love DIY and books, join us to craft your own keepsake box from a library book (or bring your own book). Once we craft the basic shape, feel free to decorate it to your heart’s content. For older teens/adults (16+). Materials supplied. Space is limited, register via email: hannag@kershawcountylibrary.org

Thursday, September 28 | 5 PM – 6:30 PM | 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.

Thursday, September 28 | 6 PM – 7 PM | Camden

Camden Book Club: We will be discussing The Lost Ticket by Freya Sampson. New members are always welcome. You can pick up a copy of the book at the Camden branch.

September is Library Card Signup Month

September is Library Card Signup Month, so many programs/events are library themed! We’ll be holding a library card raffle where you can win a library swag bag! Show your KCL library card or sign up for a new card to enter. There will also be incentives for county residents getting new cards all month, check with your local branch to find out.

Slow Down & Stay Alert In School Zones

The first couple of weeks of any school year are usually chaotic. Everyone is trying to find the best route, the right time to leave home, and the easiest way to get through school zones to start their day. Your KCSO gets a lot of traffic complaints during this time. Things settle down after those first couple of weeks.

Then people start getting complacent. They start driving faster, they lose focus on their surroundings, and get distracted. This is not good. Most accidents happen when people get to this phase. You do not want to go through life knowing you hurt or killed a child because you were in a hurry to get somewhere. Your conveniency will never be more important than someone’s life.

Population growth has made all of our morning commutes more crowded. Things will get worse as Kershaw County continues to grow. We all have to leave earlier in the morning in order to get to work on time. If you leave home late, plan to arrive at your destination late. Don’t try to make up time in a school zone. Trust me, my deputies cannot make congested traffic move faster in the mornings. They are doing the best they can. There is no law requiring any law enforcement officer to stand in the road directing traffic to make your morning travels faster. They are only there as a courtesy to help you. Think about how slow your morning would be without someone directing traffic.

A few years ago, we nearly lost a deputy. She was hit by a distracted driver in a school zone while she was directing traffic. She had on her blue lights and all reflective gear. She was very visible. That didn’t matter because the driver was driving too fast and looking

The 23-24 Class of Junior Leadership kicked off the year by having a great day at Camp Canaan working on communication and team building! Junior Leadership Kershaw County is a high school student leadership development program sponsored by the Kershaw County School District, Camden Military Academy and the Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce. It is open to junior and seniors who submit an application. Participants are selected by their schools.