Dine In or To Go! 803.408.2757
From The Chairman's Desk Fortune Favors Preparation By: Julian Burns, KC Council Chairman
Letter Submissions It is the policy of The Elgin News to encourage reader participation on its editorial page. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. Because of space limitations, we must limit all contributors to one letter per person per month. Letters of 200 words or less will be published unless they contain language or content that the editors feel is inappropriate. Examples of content that will cause letters to be rejected include the following: • Disrespectful comments regarding a group's or individual's ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, religion, culture, or race. • Poor taste. • Endorsements for or complaints about individually named commercial products or services. • Personal attacks. The Elgin News will not knowingly publish factually incorrect information. Only letters written exclusively to the newspaper will be published. Letters to a third party or those written to more than one newspaper are not accepted. Letters written in response to other letter writers should address the issue at hand and, rather than mentioning the writer by name, should refer to the headline and date the letter was published. Discourse should be civil and people should be referred to in a respectful manner. Letters referring to news stories should also mention the headline and date of publication. All letters must be signed and include the writer's street address or route address telephone number, which will be used for verification purposes only. We welcome your input. You may write to us by e-mail at elginnews@gmail.com or by regular mail at:
Letters to the Editor The Elgin News P.O. Box 152 Elgin, SC 29045
Cate Goff, Editor (803) 513-5108
2
Fred Davidson, Sales Manager (803) 466-4604
Don’t believe in luck? Well, neither does Kershaw County. We believe in opportunity, not luck; and opportunity follows those best prepared to receive it. Preparation and diligence always pay off – years of study in school, months of hard work in business, practice on the ball field, in enterprise; and, lastly and always in investment. Investments in self and in others. How else could Kershaw County have succeeded where others have stumbled….? We have seen success on multiple fronts, and the reward is a better life in the Great Place, Kershaw County, in which our citizens can live, worship, work and raise families here. Right here. KCStrong. Consider what challenges we as a county have surmounted – Tornadoes. Round three of a global pandemic. Earthquakes. Fires. Economic recession. Where other governments and counties have stumbled we have a record of resolute readiness, and rolling with the punches, standing right back up and delivering on quality and performance.
See CHAIRMAN'S DESK, Page 5 >>
Letter To The Editor
Blanketing Families, Inc. Expresses Appreciation As a non-profit organization, we are honored to say that we have rooted ourselves in Elgin SC. We didn't know what to expect at first from the community, with God always expect the unexpected. Our very first event was at Brown's Oil & Lube in Town giving out Hygiene bags through our Project Hy-g. Unexpectedly the world was hit with COVID-19 PANDEMIC that would change lives forever. It did for Blanketing Families. Who would have thought that a Town in a rural area would bless us beyond measure as God showed himself BIG in a small non-profit organization and a small town in Elgin SC. We are humble and grateful for the opportunity that Mayor Emmons and the community gave us serve others. Thank you our Volunteers, Father's House Ministries International, Elgin P.D., Radiate Church United Way Kershaw County and so many others. In Above: Blanketing Families, Inc. Founders and sisour Mayor Emmons words: This is Community! ters Annette Hammond and Ann Pringle.
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 January 13, 2022
January 13, 2022
3
Shake Up 2022 With A Positive Outlook By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Now that 2021 is in the record books, I want to share my experiences and recollections of the year we have put to rest. I have postponed writing this article because my thoughts have been all over the place going in different directions. I kept saying to myself I do my best, I do my best work when I am facing a deadline, and as with any deadline, there is always a
countdown. 10…9…8… I remember as a high school student sitting in friends’ homes watching Johnny Carson's New Year’s show with Guy Lombardo and his Royal Canadian band playing “Auld Lang Syne” after the famous crystal ball dropped in New York City’s Times’ Square. Johnny Carson’s late night talk TV show always began at 11:30 (our curfew time) on one of our three local channels, NBC, and it was a highlight for my generation. The song “Auld Lang Syne” was written in 1788 by a Scottish poet Robert Burns. In the song-poem he asked a series of rhetorical questions about days gone by, memories, and the bonds of friendships. The text is in Scottish Gaelic, and there is a strong theme of change throughout his thirty-six lines. I started thinking about the questions of that traditional folk song since I am of Scottish heritage, and I have tried to discover what Burns’ purpose was. This song has been sung at weddings, funerals, and farewell parties throughout the centuries. Burns’s first line reads, “Should old acquaintances be forgot and never brought to mind? Should old acquaintance be forgot in days of “Auld Lang Syne?” The words ‘Auld Lang Syne’ translates to the long ago… in days gone by. The poet encourages us, for the sake of old times, we should try to remember the times of the past. Should we raise a glass to toast on the stroke of midnight to our by gone
years and memories? Is it to glorify the old before facing the new challenges? Is it the value we put on events and people? Is it that the bonds between us are greater than the elements that divide us? I read somewhere that without faith, family, friends, hope, and our memories, life hardens us. Life can be disappointing and depressing. This past year certainly has been for all of us a year of loss. We celebrated my dear friend Carolyn's mother's 100th birthday with a party in April, and then two months later my friend and her mother came to my house to celebrate my youngest granddaughter Grace's high school graduation. Two months after that, we buried my friend’s beautiful mother. In August, my classmates and I enjoyed our fifty-sixth class reunion. We had all had our vaccines and boosters. No masks for us! A few months later one of my classmates died from a stroke. In November, I sat by the bedside of my beloved 98-year-old Aunt Ruth as she whispered the words to “Because He Lives” in her final hours. A few days later I delivered the eulogy for my mother's last remaining sibling of six. If there is a New Year’s message it is that we can never go back and relive our past. If we believe the words, “We'll take a cup of kindness yet for Auld Lang Syne” we can choose joy and kindness as we begin 2022. Whether we are watching the crystal ball in Times Square or crystal flip flops out on Folly Beach or a moon pie in Mobile, Alabama or listening to the fireworks in our neighborhood, we can focus on the positives for such a defining time as this. After all, in the last week of 2021, our community was rocked with an unprecedented seven earthquakes; the strongest being recorded by the US Geological Survey as 3.3 magnitude three miles between Lugoff and Elgin. In our state, the average number of earthquakes in a year is 20. Like all news alerts, the word traveled quickly across social media as 2021 ended with earthquakes shaking up the record books! As of press time, the number of earthquakes have peaked at thirteen. Happy New Year 2022! it is time to choose life, grace, and love, not regrets! Live your faith! Hold that cup of kindness high for “Auld Land Syne “.
Connell Announces Campaign for Newly Drawn State House District 52 After thoughtful and prayerful consideration with my wife and family, I'm thrilled to announce I'm running for State House District 52, a newly drawn district created in the 2022 reapportionment. It is an honor to represent you on Kershaw County Council and we are looking to take that conservative leadership and representation further, to the State House. To be clear, there is no incumbent in this newly drawn district, as no one has ever been elected to it. The new district is completely within Kershaw County's lines, covering Elgin, Lugoff, and Camden. The responsibility to represent and fight for our county is one I will never take lightly. Ben Connell Over the last four years I led or partnered with my fellow council members to achieve several Kershaw County milestones improving quality of life, saving money, and improving public safety as follows: • We took solid waste in-house and cut costs by $1 million per year; cut costs on our chemical lab project from $1.436 million to $616,000; implemented a vehicle fleet maintenance and repair program, which cut costs and saves at least $300,000 per year. • Added ball fields, lighting, a playground, and a walking track at the West Wateree Sports Complex. • Cut the overall tax rate by half a mil last year. • Secured a $275,000 grant for the first Kershaw County park in the Elgin area. • Obtained over $400,000.00 of private donations in land, equipment, fencing, irrigation, and technology for public dog park in Lugoff.
4
• Obtained the Wateree River Veterans Park using tourism restricted funds, providing a site that features the Yak the River event, several outdoor movie nights, the Touch-A-Truck event, and the Christmas Tinsel Trail, among many others. • Took over EMS and built three new EMS stations in the county. • We fought crime by increasing the Sheriff 's budget by a greater percentage than any other department in the county to improve equipment, vehicles, and personnel. • Transitioned from a professional volunteer fire service to a full-time professional fire service providing 24/7 coverage at the lowest cost per capita for any full-time fire service in the county. • Co-located Central Carolina Technical College's campus, the Woolard Technology Center, the Kershaw County Economic Development office, and the Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce, all at one site in Camden near I-20. • Enjoyed new economic development announcements and expansions. • Established free tuition for Kershaw County high school graduates attending Central Carolina with satisfactory grade point average in high school. • Upgraded our public works facilities and equipment to improve county maintained roads. We were able to achieve these results in Kershaw County, among many others, through collaboration and working with capable staff at the county level. It takes teamwork to find success. Together we will bring more prosperity to Kershaw County and keep making it a great place to live, work, and worship. Finally, thank you to the hundreds of local folks who reached out and encouraged me to run. Stay tuned for more details on our campaign and ways to get involved at my website, BenConnell.com. And don’t forget to vote in the Republican primary on June 14th! Thank you! January 13, 2022
From the Chief 's Desk
In this week’s article I would like to address an issue that we are all experiencing, a shortage of business employees. It seems no matter where we go, just about every business is understaffed. Long lines at drive-thrus, one or two registers open at stores, unstocked shelves, the lists goes on. I’m not sure if we have Covid to blame, or a lack of drive, but we definitely have a shortage of staff almost everywhere we go.
With this issue almost everywhere, lets please keep in mind that the ones still working are doing their best. They are showing up and are usually overworked. So let’s all practice patients and kindness to those still working every day. Hopefully things will improve soon. Thank you.
Chief Alan Anders
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Assisting Other Agency: On 12/29/2021 myself and Ofc. Handy were dispatched to Family Dollar 2530 Main St. in the town limits of Elgin in reference to an assault that occurred out in the county but both subjects were at the store. The complainant stated that the Victim was scared and sitting in the store after sliding the complainant a note saying "call police after we leave" and the Subject was in the parking lot. Victim stated once in the car Subject told her I seen you give that note, I will take care of you when we get home. At that point Victim ran back into the store. Upon my arrival, I located Victim sitting behind the counter. Victim stated that she was scared of her son because he keeps beating on her. Victim stated that she woke up this morning and Subject asked her if she was going to act right. She said Subject did not like the way she responded and hit her several times in the ribs on the left side with his hands and then in the head with a broom stick. Based on what Victim's verbal statement Subject was detained until Deputies arrived due to all incidents taking place at Smyrna Road address. Victim did have a bump on her head and kept holding her ribs. EMS was requested and transported to Kershaw health. Once Deputy Clark arrived he was updated by Officer and then spoke to Victim. Deputy Clark made the decision to arrest Subject at that point and transported Subject to KCDC. Open Container / No SC DL / Expired Tag / No Insurance: Officer was patrolling the area of White Pond Road in the Town Limits of Elgin when I noticed the vehicle in front of me driving left of center and over the fog line. I ran the vehicle license plate and dispatch advised plate was expired. I activated my blue lights and made a traffic stop on the vehicle. I spoke with the driver, Subject, and could smell the strong odor of marijuana coming out of car. I had
to communicate with Subject primarily through Google Translate because he did not speak English well. I asked if anything illegal was in the car and he said no. I then asked him to step out of the vehicle and he did. I searched Subject's person and then sat him in my patrol car. I began searching his vehicle and found an open Corona beer bottle cold to the touch, in the rear passenger floor board. I called for the next tow truck on rotation which was Eddie Roberts. I then explained to Subject that he was being charged with NO SC DL, expired tag, open container, and operating uninsured vehicle. A family member arrived and picked Subject up from the incident location. Eddie Roberts arrived on scene and towed the vehicle. Liquor Law Violation / DUS 1st / Suspended Tag on Vehicle: On 12/21/2021Officers were dispatched to 2507 Main St, in reference to a suspicious vehicle. Upon our arrival we located a white Kia parked facing South in the parking lot. As we approached the vehicle we noticed a B/F sleeping in the drivers seat. As we were talking to the female, once we woke her up, dispatch advised the vehicle tag was suspended for cancellation of insurance. When the female was asked for her SCDL, she was unable to locate it. She then provided me with her name which was ran through dispatch and was advised her SCDL was suspended for failure to pay traffic tickets and cancellation of insurance. Ofc. Bailey was given consent to search the vehicle after smelling a light odor of alcohol and located a cup in the cup holder half full of a clear liquor of gin. At that point, Subject was placed under arrest for D.U.S 1st offense and violation of ABC law. Ofc. Bailey transported Subject to KCDC and the vehicle was released to Elite towing. The tag of Subject's vehicle was removed due to the suspension and will be turned into SCDMV.
CHAIRMAN'S DESK, Continued from Page 2 Not luck, but investment, and wise investment at that. Here are some examples: • We have agreed among all the elected and appointed bodies of the county on a vision….united with the schools, and municipalities and the Chamber of Commerce, we are fortified by a sense of COMMUNITY and direction, sure of what “We the People” expect in Vision2030, and how to get there. ( http://www.visionkershaw2030.org/ ). • We have boosted our county performance by trimming the fat, reducing the debt and net taxes to our people. Smaller and more agile government, not bigger but better. • Our school district continues to lead the state, surmounting the COVID challenges with training, and procedures that are the envy of all, and the product of resolve and wise investment that have us working through to provide in-person classes in the peaks and valleys of the pandemic. • We have reorganized and prioritized critical services: did you notice how efficient Public Works and Engineering have been even during the holidays? And council will address county sewer services and costs in new ways in the new year. • We have invested where we must accept NO FAILURE: in fire and January 13, 2022
EMS and public safety and justice, with the finest security and police and emergency services around. Citizens are secure in person, homes and business. • We have invested in technical education, and the work force to attract quality industrial sites and facilities as to reward our skilled population with high-paying jobs; and, • We have stepped up with a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) with programs and services and recreation for wholesome, fulfilling lives. Surely you see the improvements in KC Parks and Recreation facilities and in Veterans Park, in KC West and in Elgin. As the New Year dawns, we don’t have a crystal ball – but we are more than assured we will be ready for the new opportunities – as well as the challenges. So, whether you believe in luck or opportunity, “the safe bet” is on a great future in Kershaw County. We pray your new year is one where you seize on new ideas, and fortify the old, giving of yourself to church, and business, and investing of your time and energy in others in continued fruitful lives in Kershaw County filled with success and good times for you and your families. Happy New Year.
5
Kershaw County Stover Middle Teacher of the Year Virtual Academy Teacher of the Year
Congratulations to Kershaw County Virtual Academy 2021-2022 Teacher of the Year Laina Shoemake, pictured above, right, with KCVA Director Casey Faulkenberry.
Congratulations to Stover Middle School Teacher of the Year, Dr. Linda Branham, 8th Grade Math teacher. "It is an honor to represent Stover Middle School as the 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year," said Brahnahm. "I am excited that I get to teach amazing students every day. I work with some of the best teachers on the planet, under a great administration, that work hard to meet the needs of all students. It is an added bonus to be able to teach in the community I grew up in, continue to live in, and LOVE with all my heart. Go Tigers!"
Continuous Learning Center Teacher of the Year
KCSD Teacher Career Fair Jan.29
Kershaw County School District will host an in-person Teacher Career Fair on Jan. 29 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Lugoff-Elgin Middle School (1244 Highway 1 South, Lugoff ).
Congratulations to CLC"s 2021-2022 Teacher of the Year, Mr. Scott Sutton, who teaches math. He works hard to ensure that all students are supported in math and is an amazing team player. We are blessed to have such a hard working teacher represent us! Congratulations, Mr. Sutton!
Interested persons should fill out an application at www.kcsdschools.net/teacherfair before Jan. 24. All applicants should either be certified or eligible for certification by August of 2022. For more information, contact Lucinda Howell at lucinda.howell@kcsdschools.net or 432-8416 ext. 1217.
Locally owned, locally loved. Local and independently-owned pharmacy serving our community for over 30 years!
Services
803.438.5735 | 1107 Ross Street, Elgin 6
• Immunizations • Medication Synchronization • Medication Therapy Management • Medicare Open Enrollment • Over-The-Counter Medications • Medical Equipment • Rapid COVID Testing
Trey Webb, Agent
I’m your one-stop shop for the service you deserve at a price you want. Call me for surprisingly great rates and Good Neighbor service right in your neighborhood. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® Individual premiums will vary by customer. All applicants subject to State Farm underwriting requirements.
10201 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29229
treywebbinsurance.com 803-788-9188
January 13, 2022
LEHS Yearbook Honored
SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOPS GET RIGHT WITH GOOGLE
Thurs. Jan. 20 6:00-7:00 pm
Thurs. Feb. 3 SELLING YOUR PRODUCTS ONLINE 6:00-7:00 pm GOOGLE ADS BASICS
Thurs. Feb. 17 6:00-7:00 pm
FOCUS ON YOUR CUSTOMERS
Thurs. March 3 6:00-7:00 pm
Join the City of Camden's Main Street program and Kershaw County Library for this virtual series of small business workshops designed to help local business owners! For more information: kershawcountylibrary.org/events
Front Row: Arissa Nelson, Kylie Mellen, Ava Greenway, Presley Millett, Taylor Church, Abby VanHouten Second Row: Savannah Mullis, Emma Richburg, Emery Branham, Lacie Smith, Blythe Harris Back Row: Camden King, Griffin Keeffe, Rebekkah Gurley, Tatyana Thomas, McKinnley Williams For the third year in a row, the Lugoff-Elgin High School Kaleidoscope has received the Palmetto Award from the South Carolina Scholastic Press Association. The Palmetto Award, given to the highest quality yearbook in each class as determined by population, signifies that LE’s yearbook continues to be one of the best among other high schools with a similar population and one of the top three in the state. Several individuals also won awards: Abby Capps, Class of 2021, won 3rd place for academics spread design. Blythe Harris, junior, won 3rd place for club spread design. Hailey Mock, Class of 2021, won 3rd place for sports spread design and 3rd place for student life spread design. Jorden Phillips, Class of 2021, won 2nd place in feature writing. Savannah Mullis, senior, won 2nd place for personality profile writing. Leanna Bowling, Class of 2021, won 2nd place for sports reaction photography. Lynsey Smith, senior, won 2nd place for feature photography. Lacie Smith, junior, won 1st place for extended caption writing. Despite the challenges last year held, this staff persevered through each of them to create a quality production. “We faced a lot of challenges last year,” Lacie Smith, junior, said, “So many students were virtual, and we had only half of our student body on campus. Many people didn't respond to emails, we couldn't get some quotes, and many staffers got quarantined frequently.” The obstacles they had to overcome made winning the award even more meaningful to the staff. "Of course, we had challenges,” Griffin Keeffe, junior, said. “Anything worth doing is going to be difficult.”
Get your event in The Elgin News! Call or text us at 803.513.5108
ACT Now Before The Rains Come Down
KC United Way Kicks off VAN Program
Have you heard about the new transportation offered by United Way of Kershaw County?? Thanks to funding provided by The Health Services District of Kershaw County, the Vehicle Access Network (VAN) program provides door-to-door transportation services to make health appointments, grocery stores, and social services more accessible! The VAN Program is a collaborative effort of the United Way of KC, The Health Services District Kershaw County, Livewell Access To Care Team, One Carolina Transit and Santee-Wateree RTA To schedule a ride give Lauren a call at (803) 729-7687!
Pictured at right: President Donnie Supplee speaks at the kick-off celebration for the VAN Program which was held on January 14th. January 13, 2022
25 COLORS TO CHOOSE FROM! ∙ Seamless, 1/2 Round & Copper Gutters ∙ Gutter Clean Outs & Repairs ∙ Gutter Covers ∙ Quality Service to the Midlands for 10 Years actseamlessgutters@gmail.com • (803) 669-2574
7
Chiropractic Health & Accident Partners with IGA for Food Drive
For the past eight years, Chiropractic Health & Accident's Dr. Ferguson and Sandra Chastain, CBCS have collected food to benefit the Elgin H.O.P.E. Food Bank. The H.O.P.E. Food Bank was originally started by the late Bill Tafel, and is now run by the Kershaw County United Way.
Toy Round Up Recap
The annual Elgin Toy-Round up yet again brings the true spirit of the holiday season to our community. Thanks to the generosity of our residents, businesses and schools, 94 families and 253 children enjoyed a brighter Christmas season. Too many individuals and businesses aid in the annual collection for us to list them here, however, special recognition is given to Elgin Food Lion for their donation of 200 food boxes, American Proud BBQ for their support with their Boston Butt fundraiser, Jeff Tucker of Northeast Well and Irrigation for donating 30 Boston Butts which were prepared by Tookiedoo BBQ, and were available for sale at the Catfish Stomp. Additionally, approximately 10,000 items of non-perishable food items were collected during the holiday season, and events such as the Catfish Stomp Parade, the Catfish Stomp Pageant also raised funds to aid in this year's efforts. Students at Stover, Doby's Mill and Blaney gathered at Stover Middle on December 15th to celebrate their hard work collecting toys, canned goods, and money for the Toy Round Up. Principals Chantelle Baker (Stover), Nicole Kirkley (Blaney), and Assistant Principal Melinda Johson (Doby's) welcomed everyone, the Stover Middle Band played, Doby's Mill Choraliers sang two songs, Stover's Books for Blaney book club shared "Twas the Night Before Christmas" book, and the Stover ukulele and chorus club sang Jingle Bells. Kindergartners from Blaney and students from Doby's gave Santa toys to place under the tree. Stover Middle raised $1000 in cash through their "coin wars" and 852 cans of food for the cause. After the program, student council representatives and basketball players helped Mayor Emmons, Chief Anders and Ansley Champe, Town Clerk, load the collections for delivery. Many thanks to each and every one who donated their time or gifted items to make this year's Elgin Toy Round Up successful yet again.
“Serving Columbia Since 1963”
ALL YOU CARE TO EAT!
Hours:
Wed 11-2 • Thurs - Sat 11-8 • Sun 11-3 Catering Available Call us at 318-6682 for your catering needs.
4927 Alpine Road, Columbia, SC 29223
803-788-8238
Dr. Ferguson D.O.T. Certified Medical Examiner
Now offering D.O.T. Certified Physicals for only $99. Call today!
2547 Main Street, Elgin • (803) 408-0965
8
January 13, 2022
Tom Marable Announces Run For Council Chair
I’m Tom Marable, and I running as an America First Republican to represent all the residents of Kershaw County as your next Kershaw County Council Chairman. Why, because I believe every resident of Kershaw County should feel as if OUR County Council is listening to them and has OUR best interest at heart. • Seeking Transparency for all decisions made by County Council, no more decisions made behind closed doors. • Assigning Accountability for all actions associated with the County Council, public access to council meetings will not be restricted. • Restoring Civility and Trust between the County Council and the residents of our great county, no more confrontations with small business owners at the Farmers Market • Eliminating unconstitutional “mandates” on the citizens of Kershaw County • Making decisions that benefit all the residents of Kershaw County, not just those residing within the “city limit” signs • Conversion of the old Applied Technology & Education Center into the Aviation Technology and Education Center. • Seek the elimination of the sewer tax for residents not utilizing the sewer system • Embrace growth while maintaining our rural nature • Implementation of term limits on County Council members
Some of my professional and leadership accomplishments include: • 28 years of Military service as an AH-64D Instructor Pilot with over 4,400 hours of flight time (1,000 hours of combat flight time) and 4 combat deployments • Currently serve as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4) in the SC Army National Guard State Aviation Safety Officer • Previously served as the Standardization Flight Instructor & Senior Warrant Officer Advisor to the Commander for one of only four Attack Helicopter Battalions Tom Marable in the United States Army National Guard • Graduated from Limestone College with a degree in Information Technology • Major Service Awards include: the Bronze Star medal, the Meritorious Service medal, 4 Air medal’s, the Combat Action Badge, My family first moved to Kershaw County in 1983, where we lived in and the Humanitarian Service award Lugoff and I attended Lugoff-Elgin Middle and High School until 1986. I’m Tom Marable, and when elected, I intend to serve the residents of I was a member of the Marching Pride Band and the wrestling team. My Kershaw County with the same values with which I honor while serving in wife, Catherine is a born and raised Kershaw County resident. Her Parents the United States military, primarily the values of Duty, Selfless Service, and are Dr. Cathy Moss, the late Dr. Larry Owen, Dr. Will Owen, and her sister Respect. Virginia Owen. My wife and I returned to Kershaw County in 2015, and call You can follow my campaign on Facebook @tom4kcchairman, or email me our small farm “TomCat Acres” on Red Fox Rd home. at tommarable@vote4tom.us, or send me a text at (803) 606-2972.
Year In Review from Sen. Penry Gustafson
This first year in the South Carolina Senate has been exciting and rewarding. Constituents tend to ask the same questions, so allow me to answer for everyone before the General Assembly return to Session on Tuesday, January 11. How do you like it? I love being your Senator and representing my lifelong home state! This is not a part-time job to me but a dedicated one as a full-time citizen legislator. What a complete honor and blessing to serve as Senator for District 27. The weight and magnitude of issues and information can sometimes feel overwhelming, yet that pressure is energizing at the same time. Sitting on the back row in the chamber with the other freshman senators feels like a perpetual civics class. I actually enjoy the constant stream of information through committee work, state agencies, lobbyists, my colleagues and staff, and on the floor. Yes, I feel right at home and confident this is the place God wants me to be. What have been the biggest challenges? There is no manual on “how to be a good senator.” A brief orientation for new legislators covered the basics, and then we were thrown in the deep end overnight. Good thing I can swim! Working with staff lawyers, I sponsored and pre-filed four bills on December 9, 2020 based on requests made during the campaign. Staff on all levels have been helpful and patient with my many questions. MaJanuary 13, 2022
neuvering systems, state budget, revenue streams, grant allocations, constituent problems, COVID19, and more have been the challenge-just simply learning how things work, who to ask, what to ask, and how to ask. Finding the answers and uncovering solutions and connecting people have been the biggest challenges. What has surprised you the most? Some might think being a woman in the Senate is a daunting task. Thankfully, Senator Katrina Shealy broke the proverbial glass ceiling. Being one of only five women out of 46 senators, I was the only woman elected to the SC Senate in 2020. I have been surprised by the level of respect given to me and how my colleagues in the Senate regard one another. Demeanor is mostly sincere and focused. The other surprising thing was the movement of my legislation and support by the Finance Committee. Senator Hugh Leatherman, former Finance Chairman, was a crucial component who took a liking to me when I went to him directly for answers and guidance. There have been 116 bills passed into law, and I have co-sponsored 6 of them in the first year, including S729 (primary sponsor), S425, S200, S229, S147, and S510. Working with chairs and Sen. Leatherman, subcommittees were granted for my prefiled bills S368, S401, S402, and S403. Every bill goes through a subcommittee which includes public
Above: Sen. Penry Gustafson speaking on the floor of the State House. testimony and research. Coroners from across the state responded to my personal invitation to appear at their subcommittee meeting. Security told me they had not seen that many first responders together like that. This is a lesson for my constituents and for me as well; people showing up in person MATTERS. The public are welcome and encouraged to attend subcommittee meetings that are announced online in advance. To contact Sen. Gustafson, email her at: penrygustafson@scsenate.gov or call at: (803) 669-6364 She can also be found on Facebook @SCPenry
9
LEHS Raider Team
The Lugoff-Elgin JROTC Raider Team recently competed in the Fort Dorchester Meet in North Charleston. At the meet, the team placed first in the litter carry, third in the vehicle pull and second overall.
Pictured: Aidan Taylor, Billy Robertson, Derek Thornton, Jaquan Samuel, Quentin Benjamin, Trenten Cardoza, Bryant Sandifer, Matthew Lee and Chris Krause. Photo by McKinnley Williams IRES EXP ,2022 R E OFF RY 28 UA EBR
MENTION THE ELGIN NEWS
F
ELT B E T S ARA ADULT K & T ND R I A H S E T-S +, TEEN T A AR EN 3 K S UDE CHILDR L C IN FOR D I VAL
130-C Pontiac Business Center Drive, Elgin • 803.736.4777 10
January 13, 2022
Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office
HISTORY MADE: SRO In Every Kershaw County School
Sheriff Lee Boan
We now have a School Resource Officer (SRO) in every Kershaw County School for the first time in history. Despite everything we had to deal with over the past few years (COVID, civil unrest, protests, tornado, earthquakes, budgetary restraints, etc), your KCSO never lost sight of the goal to have an SRO in every school. We accomplished the goal without additional taxes to our citizens. It was done through coordinated efforts of your KCSO, Kershaw County School District Superintendent Shane Robbins, Camden Police Chief Joe Floyd, Kershaw County Administrator Vic Carpenter, Camden City Administrator Mel Pearson, and SC Governor Henry McMaster. We will continue doing everything we can to keep our schools as safe as possible in Kershaw County.
Obituary: William "Bill" Tafel
William Bard Tafel Sr. was a son of the late Dr. Ralph Edward Tafel and the late Donna Elizabeth Bard Tafel of Pittsburgh. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Ralph Edward “Ted” Tafel and Paul Irwin Tafel. Surviving are his wife of 28 years, Becky Pitts Tafel; children, Billy Tafel, Heather Parker (Scott), Rebekah Alden (Todd), Jennifer Tafel ( Jay Welborn), Thomas Tafel (Anne Griffin), Nicklos Tafel, Derek Hall, Jamie Bagley ( Jacob) and Edward Tafel, and seven grandchildren. Bill grew up in Pittsburgh where he attended Shady Side Academy. He then earned his BA degree at the University of Pittsburgh, a master’s degree in education from Duquesne University and a Master of Divinity from Wycliffe College and the University of Toronto, ordained in 1972. He was an educator at Avalon Junior and Senior High School in Pittsburgh where he taught history, algebra, physics, French and general science, and coached track. He was Camp Director at Sheldon Calvary Camp, Conneaut, Ohio. He served as parish minister at St. Francis Church in Somerset, Pa., and Rector at St. Mark’s Episcopal, Johnstown, Pa., and St. Timothy’s Episcopal, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as well as St. John’s, Congaree, Episcopal Church in Hopkins, S.C. He served as Chaplain at Heathwood Hall Episcopal School for a brief time. He was employed over time by The Fuller Brush Company, Novar Electronics, Executive Leasing, Acceptance Leasing, Safeguard Security Systems, Atlas Funding Group and Fischer-Anderson. He was a car salesman at Dorsey-Horton and Lexus, both of Columbia. He co-owned “Real Pit B-BQ” and served as S.C. Director of The National Multiple Sclerosis Society. He was co-owner of The Piano Barn of Elgin, S.C., for 26 years where he taught guitar lessons and restored pianos for resale. He wrote articles for The Elgin News Newspaper for many years. He served his community as Director of The Elgin Community Center implementing an after-school program for “at-risk” children and served as assistant to the Director of HighJanuary 13, 2022
way Church Choir Camp for many summers. He was named Elgin Citizen of the Year in 2009. Through the priesthood he counseled families, troubled youth, abused and neglected children and battered women. He founded and fully managed the Community of H.O.P.E. Food Bank for 12 years. He was an active member of IMPACT of Kershaw County for many years and volunteered at local schools. He was a Bill Tafel member of the Human Relations Committee of Kershaw County. He spent time during the holidays serving the homeless through the Salvation Army of Columbia and “rang the bell” at local retail stores. Bill was an avid musician playing guitar, harmonica, banjo and clarinet. He played and sang for local clubs as a young adult. He loved reading and became a published poet. He plowed and tended a vegetable garden every Spring possible. He was an avid fan of the Carolina Gamecocks football and baseball. He loved cooking for his family and dabbling in photography. Bill was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Cross and a member of the Fraternal Order of the Freemasons. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 15, 2022 at The Episcopal Church of the Cross, with burial follwoing the service in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel is assisting the family. Memorials may be made to The Community of H.O.P.E. Food Bank, c/o United Way of Kershaw, 110 East Dekalb Street, #1, Camden, SC 29020. Memories may be shared at www. dunbarfunerals.com.
11
Our Family Caring For Your Family Since 1931 Camden Chapel 1112 Fair Street, Camden, SC 29020
803-432-3583
Over 35 Years Experience!
Personal Injury
Lugoff-Elgin Chapel 1139 Highway 1 S, Lugoff, SC 29078
803-438-3419
www.kornegayfuneral.com
Room-Sized Remnants Get new carpet for your ENTIRE home at a fraction of the price, with our room and home-sized remnants! We’re over-stocked and need to make room for new items, so we’ve slashed our prices! Stop by today to select carpet for your room or home. Hurry, while supplies last.
• • • • • • • • • • •
Hurt On The Job
Wrongful Death Automobile Accidents Truck/Trailer Accidents Motorcycle Accidents Accidents Caused by DUI Drivers Hit & Run Accidents Pedestrian Accidents Uninsured Motorist Claims Neck and Back Injuries Boat Accidents Nursing Home Neglect/Abuse
Other Services • Wills • Probate Administration • Durable Power of Attorney • Living Wills • Healthcare Power of Attorney
512 Rutledge Street, Camden, SC dncannon@bellsouth.net
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
• ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)
• Brain injuries
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Spinal cord injuries
• Parkinson’s disease
• Orthopedic injuries, including hip fractures
• Amputations
• Major multiple trauma
• Neurological conditions
To learn more about our services, visit our website at MRRH.ernesthealth.com.
MRRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM 20 Pinnacle Parkway • Elgin, SC 29045 • ph: 803.438.8890 1123 Highway 1 South, Lugoff • (803) 408-8707 •carpetoutletlugoffsc.com Hours: Monday-Friday from 10 am - 6 pm • Saturday from 10 am - 3 pm
Follow Us