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.
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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
As the summer draws to a close and our school buses once again fill the roads, it’s a joy to welcome back our students, teachers, and staff to another school year. It also reminds us of the vital role education plays in shaping the future of our community. I am constantly inspired by the dedication and hard work of our educators, administrators, and support staff. They are not just teaching academic lessons; they are molding our children into thoughtful, capable, and responsible citizens. As a father of two children in our public school system, the husband of an elementary school teacher here, and a County Council member, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all who make our schools a nurturing place for our children to grow.
While the classroom is buzzing with activity, Kershaw County Council has also been hard at work over the summer, focusing on initiatives that ensure our county’s growth is managed effectively and responsibly. One of our most significant recent actions has been to impose a temporary moratorium on construction near the airport. This pause will allow us to finalize overlay districts designed to protect the airport’s operations and prevent any construction that could threaten its status. The airport is a key economic engine for our county, and any downgrade could mean a significant loss of economic opportunity and potentially force the county to repay tens of millions of dollars in FAA grants. It is imperative that we get this right, and I’m confident that with the community’s support and careful planning, we will create a framework that both encourages growth and protects our valuable assets.
Speaking of growth, Kershaw County is indeed experiencing a period of rapid development. Our roads, bridges, and public services must keep pace with this expansion to maintain the quality of life our residents expect and deserve. That’s why the County Council continues to explore all possible options for addressing infrastructure needs throughout Kershaw County and managing explosive residential growth. Our county staff is tirelessly working on these issues, and I am deeply grateful for their dedication and expertise.
In other important news, I’m pleased to share that the recent County Council Chairman race concluded with Ben Connell being elected as our new Chairman. It was an excellent race, conducted with integrity and respect by both candidates. I extend my congratulations to Chairman-elect Connell and express my appreciation for Councilman Jimmy Jones’s campaign efforts. I look forward to working alongside Chairman-elect Connell, Councilman Jones, and the rest of the council to continue addressing the needs of our community.
Council also recently passed a resolution recognizing our public safety telecommunications officers as first responders. These professionals are often the unseen heroes in emergencies, the calm voice on the other end of the line who coordinates the response efforts of our firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical teams. By formally recognizing them as first responders, we acknowledge their critical role in keeping our community safe and thank them for their invaluable service. Our community is stronger and safer because of their dedication.
As we move into the fall, let’s all take a moment to reflect on the wonderful community we share and the ways we can support one another. Whether it’s volunteering at a local school, participating in community events, or simply being a good neighbor, we each have a role to play in making Kershaw County a place we’re proud to call home.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement in the life of our community. Working together, we can ensure that Kershaw County remains a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Here’s to a great school year and a bright future for us all!
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 follow 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
Elgin PD Incident Reports
Hit and Run: Sgt. Delong was dispatched to 2458 Main St. (BP) in the Town Limits of Elgin in reference to a hit and run. Upon my arrival I met with the Complainant who stated that he was backing out of a parking spot and began to leave when an unknown male flagged him down stating he hit the unknown males car. Complainant stated he did not feel he hit the unknown males vehicle. Complainant stated that if that was the case he will call law enforcement to complete a report. At that time the unknown male shouted to Complainant "I am going to sue you" and fled the scene. Complainant was able to get a picture of the unknown male's tag as he was pulling away. Investigation pending.
Shoplifting: Lt. Hines was dispatched to the Elgin Food Lion on the report of a shoplifting in process. Suspect was described as a white male wearing a Pizza Hut tee shirt and carrying a backpack and he was still in the store. Upon arrival, contact was made with Assistant Manager at the door and she pointed out a white male (later identified as Subject #1, Subject) who was approaching us, standing near the exit. He was wearing clothing as described and carrying a backpack. Assistant Manager proceeded to describe the items that subject Subject had concealed in his backpack at the same time that Subject passed through the last points of sale and headed to the exit. Follmer was stopped and detained. After Assistant Manager repeated several items that she had observed him conceal, including a candy, a "GHOST drink" (which was explained to be an energy drink) and a six pack
of drinks, Subject was asked if he would open his back and reveal what he had. He mumbled an apology and opened the backpack taking out a box of candy - many more items were concealed inside. At this point, we asked Subject to accompany us to the office so that we were not in public view. In the office, Manager, who has had other dealings with Subject, looked through the things that Subject had concealed and took several items (valued at $12.89) out to the register where she rang them out and paid for the items. This left only a single can of GHOST SOUR PINK LEMONADE with a value of $2.82 as unpaid. Food Lion representatives requested that Subject be trespassed and the shoplifting be pursued for the remaining item. A grocery ticket was rung out for the GHOST drink and given to Hines. The product was returned to the store. Hines escorted Subject out to the patrol car where a trespass notice was completed as well as a citation for shoplifting, first offense (based on information from CCH files). Assistant Manager signed the trespass notice on behalf of the store and was advised as to the date and time of the court appearance. Subject was released on his promise to appear, albeit reluctantly given.
Assisting Other Agency/Missing Person: On 08/26/2024, The Elgin Police Department located a white Ram pick up truck displaying a SC tag that hit on FLOCK cameras as being connected to a missing person. EPD officers notified KCSO and met with Sgt. Tate at the residence. The subject that was reported missing out of Lexington County "Subject" was standing on the front porch. Marsh was doing good and stated that he left his moth-
ers house about a week ago to come clean up his home. A hit was sent to Lexington county, they were advised of the subject's location. Subject, who owns the home also stated that officers could enter the residence as there is an active arrest warrant for a subject who has been staying there. Officers cleared with no findings.
Shoplifting: LCPL Dover was dispatched to Family Dollar in reference to a shoplifting. Once I arrived on scene, the suspects and suspect vehicle had already left. I spoke with the two workers inside (Linda and Alicia), who stated that Linda was on aisle 9 and Alicia was not up front. Linda stated that she heard the "chime" go off at the front entrance, to alarm them that an item was being taken out with the safety device still attached. Linda saw two black females exiting the store at the same time and by the time she approached the front door, the vehicle and suspects were leaving the parking lot. She stated that it appeared to be a Kia model sedan, which the sedan took a right out of the parking lot heading back towards Columbia area. She stated that they could get the manager to send the video footage over to the PD, so we could have it either Monday or Tuesday. Linda stated that after they reviewed the footage, you could see one of the females standing near the door and the other walked over to the phone chargers and took a phone charger off the shelf it was hanging on and walked out with it. Linda stated that she thought the license plate was a SC tag, but was not sure, and only could see a partial tag, but not sure, but she thought it was "130" as a partial.
Mimi, Papa, Grandpa, Nana, Pop, Memaw, Pappy
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Does anyone know what holiday we celebrate on Sunday, September the 8th? In 1969 nine-year-old Russell Capers wrote a letter to President Richard Nixon asking for a day to honor his grandparents.
At the time President Nixon and our country were fighting a war in the jungles of Vietnam (1954-1975) that was very unpopular. Pres. Nixon and his advisers were focused on the high casualty count of our soldiers and the many protests around our country to stop the war and the draft.
It was not until 1978 that President Jimmy Carter signed a proclamation honoring Grandparents Day into law. It would take time for all the states to ratify this public holiday, but nevertheless, he worked and made a positive effort to give his attention to this matter. It was celebrated in 1979. The month of September was chosen to represent the “autumn” years of life.
President Carter was a grandfather himself, and he understood the request of Russell’s efforts to give grandparents an opportunity to receive love from their children's children. Also, another reason young Russell asked for the special day was to help children become aware of the strength and guidance of older people who took an interest in their lives.
President Carter was the 39th president and he was raised on a peanut farm in Plains, Georgia. He graduated from the Naval Academy and married his childhood sweetheart Rosalynn Smith. His wife Rosalynn passed away in 2023 after 75 years of marriage. He served seven years in the Navy. They have three sons, one daughter, and seven grandchildren. He became one of the youngest southern governors, and in 1976 he was elected President of the United States.
Carter returned to his hometown after serving one term as president. He continued to teach his Sunday school class at the local Baptist Church and was actively involved in Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit housing project.
He wrote many nonfiction books. His own autobiography published in 1982 was titled “Keeping the Faith: Memoirs of a President”.
What do you remember about celebrating Grandparents Day? By the time Grandparents Day was celebrated as a holiday my first two children Bo and Belle had not had any school events to celebrate their grandparents. My youngest daughter Rhetta always made cards in Sunday school for her grandparents with a Bible verse.
In later years when Billy and I became grandparents, we enjoyed having breakfast at their elementary school and having a special picture taken in their classroom. We are blessed with grands: Lindsey, Wade, Chandler, Grace, and Hampton. Haley, Katie, and Holland are our bonus grands. Their ages range from 31 to 16. My oldest granddaughter Lindsey named me one of our state’s most popular grandparent name, Nana. She named her grandfather Pappy. Nov. 23, 2023, Chandler and Caleb blessed us with our first great grandson Lucas. Then on May 1, 2024, Grace and Porter blessed us with great grandson Coast. I have enjoyed watching my children become grandparents.
I have been surprised with the changes I have observed in “child rearing" from my generation to my great grand babies such as “tummy time”, “no food before six months”, and no "screen time”. I am so happy we all have cameras on our phone and can preserve these photos of unexpected baby smiles and toddler antics.
Three of my favorite grandparents’ quotes are “Grandparents are like stars. You don't always see them, but you know they're there.” “Grandparents hold their hands for just a little while, but our hearts forever.” Another quote: “Grandparents are like magicians. They can create wonderful memories for their grandchildren out of thin air.”
The Good News is that God enables you to be a praying grandparent. “Even to your old age, I am He, and even to gray hairs I will carry You! I have made and will bear; Even I will carry and deliver you.” Isaiah 46:4.
In less than a month Oct.1, President Jimmy Carter, will become 100 years old. I hope I can find an address in order to send a birthday card with my special thanks for all he accomplished for us and our country. Why don’t you? Happy Grandparents Day!
School Board Members Recognized
During the August 20 School Board Meeting, three Kershaw County School Board Members were recognized for reaching new milestones in the South Carolina School Boards Association's Boardmanship Institute.
Established in 1982, SCSBA’s Boardmanship Institute offers a year-round training curriculum focused on leadership skills for board members on state and national educational issues.
Board members are recognized for reaching each of six levels, with a cer tificate and a pin.
Board Member Dr. Charles King was recognized for earning Level 2, and Vice Chair Shirley Halley achieved Level 4.
Board Chairman Dr. James Smith has earned Level 6, the highest level of recognition. To receive this recognition Dr. Smith achieved all five previous levels and passed a written test. He will be formally recognized in February during the School Boards Annual Convention.
“We are proud to recognize these board members for their dedication to continuous learning. These recognitions are a testament to their hard work and unwavering support of our students and staff,” says KCSD Superinten dent Dr. Harrison Goodwin.
Pictured above (left to right): Board Vice Chair Mrs. Shirley Halley, Board Chairman Dr. James Smith, Board Member Dr. Charles King.
Carpool Helpers at Doby's Mill Elem.
ball players who were on hand to assist students out of cars and into the building.
Cooking Up Kindness at Lugoff Elem.
We will begin accepting nominations for the 2nd Quarter Winner until Friday, September 26, 2024, at 12:00 pm and will announce the winner on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, during the Town Council Meeting.
This business will receive a certificate to display in their establishment and a yard sign to post outside for the public to see. We will choose a winner every quarter.
Last week, Lugoff Elementary first graders had an amazing time celebrating the end of their first Unit, "Nice to Meet You," with Friendship Day! They “cooked up kindness,” painted friendship stones, made friendship bracelets, and played fun games together. They wrapped up the day with a sunny picnic lunch!
Teacher Cadets at Lugoff-Elgin High
Mrs. Wendy Mullis welcomed a new class of Teacher Cadets this semester at LEHS. The Teacher Cadet Program, which caters to high school juniors and seniors, prepares students who are considering a career in education with practical skills to help them succeed in a classroom setting. Cadets enjoyed a lesson on picture books from LEHS librarian Ms. Anne Lemieux to prepare for a project in which they would be responsible for creating a picture book of their own! Students were tasked with writing a script on the topic of self-esteem and used a variety of crafting supplies to create characters and vibrant illustrations. Students then practiced presenting their books to their classmates in anticipation of a field trip to Lugoff Elementary School to conduct read-alouds
Senior Laykenn
in front of their peers to read their completed picture book
their classmates present and prepare to provide feedback as part of the class' activities.
starts a lesson on the characteristics of a picture book with a laugh as Teacher Cadet class instructor Wendy
works on her picture book project, using glue and other craft supplies to flesh out her illustrations.
ACT Now Before The Rains Come Down
Clockwise from top right: Seniors Quentin Benjamin, Ansleigh Creel, and Honey Johnson stand
aloud. Senior Alexandrea Stewart and juniors Eden Corder and Ansley Ray listen to
Lesson with Lemieux (3): LEHS librarian Anne Lemieux
Mullis looks on and laughs along.
Wiseman
Book & Brunch Club at LEHS
The Books & Brunch Club kicked off at Lugoff-Elgin High School (LEHS) with its first meeting of the school year in late August with a discussion of the young adult novel A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson. The novel, which has been recently adapted into a tv miniseries, was selected by members via popular vote at the end of the 2023-2024 school year. Club members were given a copy of the novel to add to their personal libraries and read over the summer in preparation for the club's first meeting. LEHS senior Ansleigh Creel led the discussion as the club chatted about the book's plot twists and character development. To fully immerse and engage members, the meeting's atmosphere was enhanced with themed decor and a cake inspired by the events of the novel. Any LEHS students interested in joining the club can visit the library or contact the club's sponsor, LEHS librarian Anne Lemieux.
Left: LEHS senior
leads the Books and Brunch Club in discussion as members enjoy a complimentary meal and dessert.
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.
Above: LEHS librarian Anne Lemieux covers some housekeeping items for the club prior to the book discussion.
Ansleigh Creel
VFW 125th Anniversary Celebration
Calling all veterans, advocates and anyone who loves their freedom. This year, the VFW — America’s largest organization of combat veterans is celebrating its 125th anniversary. That’s 125 years of service to veterans, their families and our communities. We are Celebrating the Legacy that is the VFW and you’re invited. Join VFW Post 11079 on 2464 Bowen Street, Elgin, SC on Sept 28, 2024 as it marks this momentous occasion with a day of great fun and events.
We will have food, drinks, music, games, 50/50 bake sale ,and silent auction items to bid on. The event starts at 2:00 pm. Come on out and show your appreciation to the veterans in our community. Email us at vfwpost11079@gmail.com , visit our VFW at 2464 Bowen Street, Elgin, SC and keep your eyes open for posting on our Facebook page for more information. We hope to see you there!
Springvale Baptist Homecoming
Springvale Baptist Church invites you to their homecoming celebration. Join them on September 29th at 9:30 am for Old Fashioned Gospel Singing, followed by a service at 10:30 am. A meal will be served after both services. Don't forget to dress like it's the 1950's! Springvale Baptist is located at 1496 Springvale Road in Lugoff.
Health Foundation Grant Applications
The Health Foundation of Kershaw County (HFKC) will begin accepting applications for grants beginning September 1st. The application process will close on September 30th. Selected grants will be awarded to 501 (c) (3) organizations, which demonstrate a positive impact on the overall health and safety of Kershaw County residents. Grants will be awarded in December.
In the past the foundation has distributed more than $450,000 to organizations in Kershaw County. Some past recipients have included The Community Medical Clinic of Kershaw County, Food for the Soul, Alpha Center, Camden Fire, Lugoff Fire, United Way, Christian Community Ministries, and the Boys & Girls Club of Kershaw County.
Organizations wishing to seek funding and an application, can contact the foundation by sending an inquiry email to healthfoundationofkershawco@gmail.com or by calling (803) 432-8433.
Greater Works Ministry Youth Conference
Calling all Children and Youth! Big kids! Little kids! And kids at heart! Greater Works Ministry (GWM) excitedly announces the Annual Legacy Youth Conference on Thursday, September 5th through Saturday, September 7th in “Holiness Is My Standard: I REFUSE to Bow to Baal!”
Join loads of cool with youth choirs, praise dancing, gift bags and more! Nightly services begin at 7 p.m. featuring Apostle-Pastor Yolanda Bowers, Co-Host (GWM) on Thursday night, Senior Pastor Chris Green, Co-Host (GWM) on Friday night, and Apostle Charles & Prophetess Felicia Goodwin (Jars of Clay) at 11 a.m. on Saturday morning. Sessions will be free and open to the public! All sessions will be held at the Triumphant Praises Church International Headquarters location, 1350 Browning Road, Suite 150 in Columbia between St. Andrews Road and Zimalcrest Drive. Please call 803-764-2720 for more conference details. GWM is one of eight (8) affiliate ministries under the leadership of Apostle Margie L. Gallman, Visionary & Overseer of Triumphant Praises Church International.
Elgin Is A Purple Heart Town
At the September Town Council meeting, Mayor Melissa Emmons an Council Members issued a proclamation making Elgin a Purple Heart Town. This designation is given to a municipality or locality in the United States that honors and recognizes the sacrifices of military personnel who have been wounded or killed in combat. Members of Chapter 402 of the Order of the Purple Heart were on hand to receive the signed proclamation.
The award known as the Purple Heart has a history that reaches back to the waning days of the American Revolution. The Continental Congress had forbidden General George Washington from granting commissions and promotions in rank to recognize merit. Yet Washington wanted to honor merit, particularly among the enlisted soldiers. On August 7, 1782, his general orders established the Badge of Military Merit.
This award was open only to enlisted men (Privates, Corporals and Sergeants) and granted them the distinction of being permitted to pass all guards and sentinels as could commissioned-officers. The names of the recipients were to have been kept in a "Book of Merit" (which has never been recovered).
At the present time there are three verified recipients of the Badge of Military Merit: Sergeant Elijah Churchill, 2nd Continental Dragoons; Sergeant William Brown, 5th Connecticut Continental Line Infantry and Sergeant Daniel Bissel, 2nd Connecticut Continental Line Infantry.
Washington stated that the award was to be a permanent one, but once the Revolution ended, the Badge of Military Merit was all but forgotten until the 20th century.
General John J."Blackjack" Pershing suggested a need for an award for merit in 1918, but it was not until 1932 that the modern Purple Heart was created in recognition of Washington's ideals and for the bicentennial of his birth.
On May 28, 1932, 136 World War I veterans were conferred their Purple Hearts at Temple Hill, in New Windsor, NY. Temple Hill was the site of the New Windsor Cantonment, which was the final encampment of the Continental Army in the winter of 1782-1783. Today, the National Purple Heart continues the tradition begun on these grounds in 1932, of honoring those who have been awarded the Purple Heart.
The Purple Heart has undergone many changes with respect to the criteria for being awarded. At first, the Purple Heart was exclusively awarded to Army and Army Air Corps personnel and could not be awarded post-
humously to the next of kin. In 1942, President Franklin Roosevelt signed an executive order allowing the Navy to award the Purple Heart to Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guard personnel. Also in that year, the Purple Heart was made available for posthumous awarding to any member of the Armed Forces killed on or after December 6, 1941.
Originally the Purple Heart was awarded for merit. Being wounded was considered to be one type of merit. With the creation of the Legion of Merit in 1942, the award of the Purple Heart for merit became unnecessary and was therefore discontinued. Currently, the Purple Heart, per regulation is awarded in the name of the President of the United States to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving under competent authority in any capacity with one of the U.S. Armed Services after April 5, 1917 has been wounded, killed, or has died after being wounded by enemy action.
Purple Heart history obtained from thepurpleheart.com.
28th Annual FireFest Set for Sept. 28th
The 28th Annual Fire Fest returns to Camden City Arena on Saturday September 28th, beginning with a parade downtown of current and antique fire trucks at 9 am, leading to activities and demonstrations at the City Arena, 420 Broad Street.
Each year, this family friendly event allows residents and visitors learn about the importance of fire prevention and fire safety while enjoying live firefighting demonstrations and competitions, K-9 demonstrations, as well as a live burn to show the basics of outdoor grill safety. Get up close and personal with antique fire trucks and other vehicles at the Cruise In, explore vendor booths and food trucks, and enjoy other live entertainment and games for all ages. Admission is free.
Each year, Fire Fest is the kick off for the national annual Fire Prevention Week™. This year’s Fire Prevention Week™ campaign is “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!™” and strives to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.
“We are excited to host special guests, such as Captain Danny Brown, and of course we appreciate the continued support of our sponsors, vendors, and
entertainment partners,” said Fire Chief Eddie Gardner. “This is a valuable opportunity to connect directly with our community, teach the importance of fire prevention and safety, and have a fun, family friendly day.”
This free event is made possible thanks to the support of community partners, including Captain level sponsors: Canfor Southern Pine; Cantey, Tiller, Pierce & Green; the City of Camden; Community Broadcasters; Connell Law Firm; Savage, Royall & Sheheen; Upchurch & Jowers; and the UPS Store.
Fire Fest begins at 9 am Saturday, September 28. The parade of new and antique fire trucks, along with other emergency vehicles begins at Camden City Hall, and continues down Rutledge and Broad Streets, ending at the City Arena for opening ceremonies at 9:30 am.
Fire Fest is always held the last Saturday of September to kick off National Fire Safety Month in October and National Fire Prevention Week, which begins Sunday, October 6ththis year.
For more information about Fire Fest, visit the Camden Fire Department’s Facebook page.
Above: Members of the Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 402 receive the signed proclamation from Elgin Town Council.
9/11 Walk of Remembrance 2024
This year’s Kershaw County 9/11 Walk of Remembrance will start on Wednesday (9/11/24) at 9:00 am. Your local first responders will walk from the Lugoff Fire Department to the Camden Fire Department in remembrance of all the first responders who died on 9/11/01. We will walk o n Highway 1 from Lugoff to Camden with first responders escorting in emergency vehicles with flashing lights.
We ask that anyone who wants to show their respect and support to please stage anywhere on the side of Highway 1 with American flags, signs, or just your friendly waves. The plan is to leave the Lugoff Fire Department at 9am and arrive at the Camden Fire Department by 11am.
Please be patient if you are passing by the lane we are walking in. This is our way of showing respect to all those who unselfishly gave their lives on 9/11. We ask everyone passing to also show respect for the fallen heroes of 9/11.
#NeverForget
African American Cultural Center Kicks Off New Season
The African American Cultural Center of Camden, located at 517 York Street, will kick-off its 2024-2025 season with the theme, celebrating community. The public is invited to enjoy a number of events from September 14th through 22nd.
The opening event will be held on Saturday, September 14th from 1:00 to 3:00 pm with its symposium, “Let’s Talk About…Healing through Reconciliation?”, featuring Bishop Gary Rivas of Lyttleton Street United Methodist Church and Dr. James Coleman as moderator. The event will take place at the Revolutionary War Visitor Center, 212 Broad Street. Admission is free, but registration is encouraged by calling 803-432-2421 x1153 or emailing kspadacenta@camdensc.org.
On Tuesday, September 17th, the African American Cultural Center partners with Gallery 537 to present “Prose, Poetry, Etc.”. This event will provide an opportunity to strengthen community ties by sharing commonalities through poetry, prose and music. All are welcome to share their voice at the open mic. Doors open at 5:00 pm; light hors d’oeuvres will be served. Open mic will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. The Gallery is located at 537 East DeKalb Street. Admission is free, but registration is encouraged by calling 803-432-2421 x1153 or emailing kspadacenta@camdensc.org. Performers
for open mic may sign up at the door or call in advance for more details.
The highlight of the week-long celebration, Community Day at the Center, will be held on Saturday, September 21st from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm in partnership with Concerned Citizens of Kershaw County and will take place at the African American Cultural Center and the Price House. This day will be an opportunity to learn more about the Cultural Center and its role in the community. Those interested in preserving their family history are encouraged to bring family photographs and documents to be scanned. There will also be a variety of entertainment for both children and adults, storytelling, games, bounce house, the Kershaw County Library Book Mobile, informational tables and vendors. This day will also be an opportunity to meet some of the 2024 candidates, who will speak briefly about their platform for the upcoming November election. Designated parking will be available.
The celebration concludes on Sunday, September 22nd at 2:00 pm with “Artists in the Sanctuary”. This event is in partnership with Camden Second Presbyterian Church and co-sponsored by the Althea J. Truitt Memorial Fund. The Community is invited to enjoy an afternoon of live jazz and blues. The event is free. Seating is limited. Registration is encouraged by calling 803-432-2421 x1153 or emailing kspadacenta@camdensc.org.
