Volume 18, No. 6B
“A Companion for People who Live, Work, & Play in Elgin, Lugoff and Camden”
June 24, 2022
CHOIR CAMP 2022
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ng-term plans for nsider what each uickly! Do your other capacities. is wife are always elginhvac@aol.com he citizens of our (803) 272-6535 cell manner are office (803) and 419-2880 have served John our Cook ? ur town would be d by and let this s can not always nding our Elgin or! k of ar? know there ut toItime!” also share their individual views regarding current topics which impact the community. ty of column your family f this is to provide all of our town councilmen a place to not only give the minutes of anley uncilwoman Melissa Brazell-Emmons
CSD nnounces 2013 Event rkleberry Country Fair
Pictured above, clockwise from top left: Teen helpers, Maddie Haskell and Amelia Williams, help Ariana Perez make s'mores during Choir Camp 2022. Choir Camp's Brian Heyward greets Pre-K and Kindergarten students. David Walsh, of the Lugoff-Elgin Gideon Camp speaks to the Kindergarten and Pre-Kindergarden classes during Choir Camp 2022 as their teen workers look on. The Gideons presented a pocket Bible to each of the campers and workers.
SEE MORE, PAGE 6
Dine In or To Go! 803.408.2757
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.
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
The regular monthly meeting of the Elgin Town Council was held on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, at 6:00 pm at the Elgin Town Hall. Those present included Councilman Paul Rizzo, Councilwoman Dana Sloan, Councilman Brad Hanley, Councilman Ed Smith, Mayor Emmons, Chief Alan Anders, Ansley Champe, Town Clerk, and John Wells, Town Attorney. The Invocation was given by Mayor Emmons and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, which was led by Councilman Brad Hanley. The first order of business was the approval of the minutes from the Regular Meeting held on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. A motion to approve was made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilwoman Dana Sloan, with a unanimous vote from Council. There was no one signed up to speak during Public Forum. Council adopted the agenda for the meeting. A motion to approve was made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilman Ed Smith, with a unanimous vote from Council. The following New Business Licenses were approved for May 2022: (1) 1-2-3 Jump and (2) Sand L Windows and Doors. There were no new Charity Permit Requests for May 2022. Always remember to check with Elgin Town Hall about completing a Charity Permit Request Form prior to any events taking place. Also, please remember to support the businesses in the Elgin Community and shop local. There were no Complaints for the month of May 2022. In Old Business, Councilwoman Dana Sloan discussed two quotes from Bliss Products for (1) Installation of a 3 Bay Swing and (2) Installation of a handrail and additional steps to existing playground equipment at Potter Community Park. Councilwoman Sloan will be getting updated invoices to include the total costs for both projects. In New Business, Mayor Melissa Emmons informed Council that Amy Schofield could not attend tonight’s meeting due to an illness, but she will be at an upcoming meeting to provide an update on the Elgin Library. Council approved the Resolution of the Town of Elgin supporting the South Carolina American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission and recognizing and approving the Kershaw County 250 Committee. A motion to approve was made by Councilwoman Dana Sloan, 2nd by Councilman Ed Smith, with a unanimous vote from Council. At this time, Council also approved a new contract with Davis Disposal for garbage pickup services with an increase from $4,700.00 per month to $5,000.00 per month for residents in the town limits. This is a service that the town provides for our residential customers. A motion to approve was made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilman Ed Smith, with a unanimous vote from Council. Also in New Business, Council approved a Letter of Engagement with Ratliff CPA Firm to provide bookkeeping services needed to complete the 2021 Tax Year Audit. This is in addition to the payroll services that they are currently providing, and this is a time sensitive matter. A motion to approve was made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilman Paul Rizzo, with a unanimous vote from Council. Chief Alan Anders provided Council with the stats for May 2022 for the Elgin Police Department. He also informed Council that Ms. Kathy Brown, Victims Advocate, was retiring after 26 years of service to the department and the Elgin Community. At this time, Officer Randy Bass introduced the department’s new Drug K-9, Thor, a beautiful black and tan German Shepard. In Council Briefing, Councilman Paul Rizzo updated Council on the status of providing Council several options of a consultant to assist in several construction projects that the town hopes to begin in the coming months at Elgin Town Hall and Potter Community Park. Councilman Ed Smith had
MAYOR'S DESK, See Page 5 >>
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 June 24, 2022
COVID-19 CONCERNS? WE’RE HERE
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June 24, 2022
3
Do You Know The Lizard Man?
There will also opportunities to visit world famous Pearl Fryar’s topiary garden, the South Carolina Cotton Museum, WWI Box car Memorial, Do you have any plans for this weekend? Heisman Trophy Winner Doc Blanchard’s statue, the Angel Wings, and Looking for something to do? This is the last various shops such as The Swamp Log and boutiques. weekend in June. I would like to make some The Marketplace, 238 Main Street, will host Lugoff-Elgin resident and suggestions for a quick day trip. Sumter native, Scott Jones, for his book signing. Jones was AD/head coach at It has been 34 years since the first sight- LE for thirteen years. His bestselling second book The Treasures of a Carolina ing of the Lizard Man of Scape’ Ore Swamp. Summer will be available for purchase. “Monster Bash” was the headline in the State Jones was a high school and college athlete who also played American newspaper with a subheading of “Reputable Legion ball. He was a pitcher, outfielder, and first baseman. As the main People say they saw elusive Lizard Man.” character Roger James learns life lessons in the novel playing Legion ball, It was the news story that shocked the community when a 17-year-old boy Jones did also. called for help claiming he was attacked by a 7-foot red eyed green monster This novel offers readers a chance to experience the treasures of a special as he changed a tire at 2:00 AM after his shift at McDonald's. summer through the tales of laughter, intrigue, and small-town gossip. Jones There was a $1M reward with Dead or Alive Wanted signs sponsored by said that the second book offers more humor and teases the fact that a Lee WNOK radio, Good Morning America TV crews and other major networks County native makes an appearance in the novel. Jones said that he is excited arrived on the scene, and Lizard Man t-shirts for sale turned the summer of to visit Bishopville. 1988 into a 3-ring circus in the small town of Bishopville. Jones continued. “I actually hunted a couple of times in the Scape Ore According to the Facebook page “The Lizard Man Stomp”, The Friends of Swamp many years ago. I love Bishopville!” the Lizard Man have organized the first official celebration of South CaroIt has been quite a while since my friends and I were in high school in the lina’s famous monster for June 25th (that is TOMORROW) in downtown 1960’s and chased after a swamp monster called the “Bo lo’ Gator. A lot of Bishopville. Their main purpose is to preserve the legend of the Lizard Man. the guys who liked to fish or hunt in the swamps and woods of Lee County There will be local groups cooking Lizard Bog as the great chefs do. Plates enjoyed telling tales to scare the faint of heart about a creature they had met will be $8. Children under 12 will eat FREE from a menu of hot dogs, ham- up with that lurked in the dark. Some summer nights when there was nothburgers, and chips. Drinks will also be sold, and takeout will be available. ing to do at our local drive-in, we would all pile into the back of a station The first Lizard Man Stomp will be a family friendly festival featuring en- wagon or jeep and take off hunting for our own swamp creature now known tertainment, classic car and tractor show, games, arts and crafts, a scavenger as the Lizard Man. I know that you would like to hear more about those eshunt, and coloring contest sponsored by the Pilot Club. According to local capades. Now those adventures would make another spooky tale and article Roy Atkinson, the Lizard Man loves music. Roy decided to write a song for another time in The Elgin News. about the Lizard Man. Local dancers from Savage Dance Productions will Come celebrate the famous Lizard Man with me, June 25 (my birthday) at perform and teach the Stomp. the Marketplace in my hometown of Bishopville Exit 16 off I-20 from 10-2. By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
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June 24, 2022
From the Chief 's Desk
In this Chief ’s Desk, I want to talk about better ways to serve the public. Better ways to make visiting and living in Elgin safer and more positive. We all know that our traffic through Elgin is jam-packed at times. And with more traffic, comes more violations. We are experiencing more road rage incidents, more speeding complaints and impatient drivers are cutting through parking lots and recklessly passing stopped traffic on the shoulder. This behavior is dangerous for our visitors and residence. Our town is growing and the need to keep up with it is demanding.
One solution to help better serve is that we are adding an additional Police Officer to the Department. Our Mayor and Town Council have approved an additional Officer position. We appreciate their support and because of that support we will be able to improve our services to Elgin. I can not say thank you enough to our Town’s government, or to the public support that we receive. Thank you.
Chief Alan Anders
Elgin PD Incident Reports
Welfare Check: Officer was dispatched to do a welfare check at Cherry Lane address in the Town Limits of Elgin. I arrived and spoke with Complainant who stated she has had the occupant of that residence's dog (Subject) for three days and wanted to see if we could make contact with him. We could not get anyone to answer the door. The fire department and I found the back door to his residence unlocked and Subject was extremely intoxicated laying in his bed when we found him. I called for EMS to check Subject to make sure he was alright. EMS arrived and checked Subject's vitals and other things and he appeared to be fine according to EMS. We could not get Subject to speak with us fully due to him being so intoxicated, he would just fall back asleep. At this time we all cleared the scene, a neighbor told us that they notified his family who lived close by. Information Only: On 06/14/2022, at approximately 11:30 am Officer Handy responded to Jeffers Circle address in reference to a child complaint. Once on the scene, I was met in the yard of the home by a Juvenile Male. The Juvenile Male stated that he was hungry and his grandfather made him go to his room and they were treating him badly. I asked Juvenile Male when was the last time he had eaten and he stated at 9 am and the present time was 11:45 am. I also asked Juvenile Male why was he sent to his room and he stated because he had hit his sister. Juvenile Male's grandfather (Complainant) was sitting on the porch and I asked Hillier what was going on and he stated that "this is an everyday thing." He stated that he and his wife has custody of all three of his grand kids and all three of them have mental health issues and all are on medication. Complainant stated that DSS is involved and they are trying to find solutions to help, but haven't been very successful. I did not see any signs of injuries to any of the children and I am very familiar with this family. Information Only (dog complaint): On 06/13/2022 at approximately 1:40 pm Officer Handy, responded to Brentwood Dr. address in reference to a dog
complaint. Once on the scene I was met in the yard by the Victim who stated that his neighbors who live directly behind him on Piper Ln. have two very aggressive dogs that dig underneath his fence and comes into his backyard. Victim stated that his grandchildren are coming from New York for the summer and doesn't want them to be attacked by the dogs. Victim stated that he spoke with the dog's owner a month ago and he felt that they did not take him seriously. Victim took me into his backyard and showed me all the places that he has done repaired due to the dogs digging underneath his fence. The whole time that he and I were in the backyard one of the dogs was being very aggressive and charging the fence. I drove to Piper Ln. address in an attempt to make contact with the homeowner but I could not get anyone to the door. I did leave my business card inside the front door. On 06/13/2022 at approximately 3:50 pm and I returned to Piper Ln. and spoke with the homeowner to explain the penalties for allowing her dogs to roam freely unattended. The homeowner acknowledged that she understood and was very understanding. Damage to Gas Pump: On 06/16/2022, Officer was advised by Circle K employee that Subject pulled up to the gas pump in a white or silver suv to get gas. Employee stated that after getting gas Subject drove off with the nozzle still in his vehicle causing the hose to disconnect from the pump. Subject returned to the store told the clerk what happened and left again. Employee notified the assistant store manager, who stated she was not sure if a police report was needed or not but would like one just in case. Information Only (lost wallet): On 06/17/2022, at approximately 1330 hours, Officer answered a call for service at Elgin Town Hall in reference to a lost wallet. I met the Victim who stated that on May 27, 2022 he left his home on Thatch Palm Ct. and went to his place of business located on Smyrna Rd. Victim stated once he arrived at work he could not find his wallet. Victim stated the wallet did not contain any cash but did contain the following: SC drivers license, Passport ID, several credit cards, and one old coin.
MAYOR'S DESK, Continued from Page 2 no report. Councilwoman Dana Sloan provided Council an update on the purchase of additional Christmas lights/decorations to replace the older ones that are currently displayed on the power poles throughout town. This order will be placed in the coming weeks, and it has been budgeted for in our 2021-2022 Budget. Councilman Brad Hanley had no report. Mayor Melissa Emmons reminded Council of the upcoming Special Business Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at 6:00 for the Public Hearing and 2nd Reading for the 2022-2023 Budget. She also informed Council of a Stop Work Order for 1274 and 1282 Sessions Road in relations to Stormwater Management. June 24, 2022
Attorney John Wells had no report. At this time, Council voted to go into an Executive Session to discuss a Personnel Matter. A motion was made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilwoman Dana Sloan, with a unanimous vote from Council. Shortly thereafter, Council returned, and a motion was made by Councilman Brad Hanley to come out of Executive Session, 2nd by Councilman Paul Rizzo, with a unanimous vote from Council. Mayor Emmons informed those present that Council discussed a personnel matter, but no vote was required at this time. Motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:39 pm made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilman
Paul Rizzo, with a unanimous vote from Council. Our next regular scheduled meeting will be on Tuesday, July 12, 2022, 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. Just remember that when you stay informed, you become empowered. Also, we now broadcast our monthly council meetings live on the “Town of Elgin” Facebook Page. Please feel free to contact me at 803-3091385 or melissa.emmons@townofelginsc.com.
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Choir Camp 2022
Town of Elgin Job Opening
Admin. Assistant/Associate Clerk of Court The Town of Elgin is accepting applications for the position of Administrative Assistant/ Associate Clerk of Court. This is a part-time position without benefits and this employee reports directly to the Mayor and Town Council. This position is for 24-30 hours per week. Requires a vocational/technical diploma in accounting, bookkeeping/accounting or related field supplemented by three to five years of general bookkeeping and accounting experience; and the equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary. This individual must be able to perform in a demanding environment. This position is for 24-30 hours per week. The position will be open until filled, but the deadline for applications is Tuesday, July 5, 2022. Job Applications are available on the town website at www.townofelginsc.com under the “FORMS” tab and/or can be picked up directly from Town Hall at 2469 Main Street, Elgin, South Carolina. Please submit resume and application to: The Town of Elgin, Attention Mayor Emmons, PO Box 277, Elgin, SC 29045. If you have any questions, contact Town Hall at 803-438-2362.
Choir Camp 2022 was held during the week of June 15 at Father's House Ministries in Elgin. For the 22nd year, Choir Camp served children from the surrounding area with Bible study, choir, gospel choir, art, lessons from the Alpha Center, recreation, and "Senior Moments." From Marsha Stone and Kailey Mitchell, children learned how to make a grilled cheese sandwich, rediscovered the fun of s'mores, and learned how to create artistic fruit/goodie kabobs. From art teachers, Robin Willoughby and Debbie Miles, older children learned to sew simple projects. Breakfast and lunch were provided by the United Way's Summer Food Program. The 79 campers learned, sang, and danced under the direction of choir director Brian Heyward and gospel choir director Dionne Hough. They heard the message of salvation from resident pastor Lorenzo White and Bible instructor, Dr. Linda Branham. When the week was finished, over 20 children and teens had given their hearts to Jesus. Those campers now have a bright future here on earth and eternal life in heaven! This year's camp was dedicated to the memory of long-term assistant director, Bill Tafel, who went on to heaven in January of this year. MANY thanks to the many local sponsors listed on the back of our hunter green shirts along with a message from "Mr. Bill."
Above left: Colten Branham paired up with 3 year old, Murphy Biggers, to create a grilled cheese sandwich during Senior Moments at Choir Camp 2022. Above Right: Baylor Dixon and Savannah Montgomery found a new friendship at Choir Camp.
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June 24, 2022
6th Annual Kid's Parade
Kids are invited to show their patriotic spirit by decorating their bicycles, human-powered scooters, and wagons and wearing their red, white, and blue for the sixth annual Kids’ Fourth of July Parade, Saturday, July 2, 2022, in Downtown Camden. Participants are asked to meet at Camden City Hall at 10 am dressed in their parade regalia. Parade starts at 10:30 am and will proceed down Rutledge Street. This is a free event. Motorized vehicles (electric or gas powered) are not allowed, and children 10 and under must be escorted by an adult. Parking is available at the Town Green,on Commerce Alley, and along Market and Broad Streets. Pre-parade activities include temporary tattoos by the Camden PD; and balloons by the Camden FD. The Hobkirk Hill Chapter of the DAR will be passing out flags, the KC Library will be providing information about Summer Reading, Nature as Teacher will host activities on the lawn, and the Visitors Center will debut its new Revolutionary War-inspired photo booth. The SC Battleground Preservation Trust Artillery Demonstration Team will provide a cannon demonstration, assisted by the Camden Elementary Military Kids Club as junior cannon crew. Immediately before the parade, a short program will honor the occasion and to recognize the Grand Marshals of the parade: the 2022 State Champion KC Robotics Team. At 10:30 am, the cannon fire will signal the beginning of the parade. Free snow cones will be available to all participants following the parade. NEW for spectators: the Best Patriotic Golf Cart Contest! The winner will receive a $200 gift certificate from Rick Williams Custom Carts. To enter, park on Rutledge Street by 10 am to watch and cheer on the parade. (Golf cart must be street legal and driven by a licensed driver. Representatives from American Legion Post 17 will serve as judges.) Photo Contest! Upload your best parade photo to the event page at https://fb.me/e/2IvrZWJrZ with hashtag #kidsparadephotocontest2022. Deadline is 11:59 pm on July 2. A random winner will be announced on July 4th! The parade is sponsored by Books on Broad and Coffee and the Downtown Camden Program. For more info, contact Laurie Slade Funderburk at laurie@booksonbroad.com or Katharine Spadacenta, Downtown Camden Program Manager, at kspadacenta@camdensc.org.
803.438.2195
ACT Now Before The Rains Come Down
39 Plaza drive lugoff
Town of Elgin Job Opening
Town Clerk/Clerk of Court The Town of Elgin is accepting applications for the position of Town Clerk/Clerk of Court. This is a full-time position with benefits and state retirement and this employee reports directly to the Mayor and Town Council. Requires a vocational/technical diploma in accounting, bookkeeping/accounting or related field supplemented by three to five years of general bookkeeping and accounting experience; and the equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary. Salary Range: $31,500 - $51,500 Duties include, but not limited to: Accounting/Bookkeeping duties: Perform a variety of routine to moderately complex accounting functions to include: accounts receivable/accounts payable and related journal entries, account reconciliations, and compile budget information utilizing excel spreadsheets. Make bank deposits, compile payroll data, file quarterly and annual tax filings. Legal and Clerical duties: Record and edit meeting minutes, draft and post agendas, distribute town business correspondence, maintain all financial, legal and reference material and files. Communication duties: Effectively and professionally communicate with staff, management, council, government officials, and the public. Clerk of Court duties: Assist judges with municipal court preparation for cases and trials, enter and maintain LawTrak court records, calculate and disseminate fine collections. This individual must be able to perform in a demanding environment. The position will be open until filled, but the deadline for applications is Tuesday, July 5, 2022. Job Applications are available on the town website at www.townofelginsc.com under the “FORMS” tab and/or can be picked up directly from Town Hall at 2469 Main Street, Elgin, South Carolina. Please submit resume and application to: The Town of Elgin, Attention Mayor Emmons, PO Box 277, Elgin, SC 29045. If you have any questions, contact Town Hall at 803-438-2362.
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7
Camden Junior Welfare League Event
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The Camden Junior Welfare League invites all women 21 and over living or working in Kershaw County to an evening of networking. Relax and enjoy the great wine, food and vibe at Broad & Vine, 1025 Broad Street anytime between 6:00 and 8:00 on Thursday, June 30. Learn about the CJWL and meet other women from Kershaw County ready to make a difference in our community! The League's service year begins in August, so now is a great time to come out and meet the member of the organization and learn more about what's ahead. For more information, email camdenjuniorwelfareleague@ gmail.com or visit www.camdenleague.org.
Victory Sports Camp Coming to Elgin
July 11-15, 2022 | 9am-4pm (M-TH)/9am-1pm (Fri.) | Blaney Elementary Cost: $35 REGISTER NOW @ www.victorysportsoutreach.org Victory Sports Camp is an exciting day camp experience for completed 1st-6th graders. In the morning, students will participate in a sports camp and receive coaching in a sport of their choice (Basketball, Baseball/Softball, Football, Soccer, Volleyball or Cheer). In the afternoon students will experience a fun Vacation Bible School!
Waldo is Coming Back To Camden!
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Send Us Your Church and Community News:
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8
Where's Waldo? In Camden, of course! The iconic children’s book character in the red-and-white striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting twenty-five different local businesses throughout our community this July. Celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2022, Find Waldo Local is a great summer vacation activity, and a wonderful way for residents to support local businesses and the Shop Local movement in our community, including Littlefield Growers, Rooster Trot, and Boykin Furiture! *All 25 participating businesses are listed below! Anyone who wishes to participate can pick up a “Find Waldo Local in Camden, SC!” stamp card with the names of all the participating sites, and get their passport stamped or signed for each Waldo they spot. To make things a little more challenging, there will be one slightly different Waldo hiding in Books on Broad. Collecting store stamps or signatures at twenty or more businesses will entitle diligent seekers entry into a grand-prize drawing on Saturday, July 30, 12 pm, with the top prize being a pre-paid $100 credit card donated by First Citizens Bank of Camden! Martin Handford’s collections of crowd scenes took the world by storm in the late 1980s, and since then have held a cherished place on bookstore shelves. More than 78 million Waldo books have been sold worldwide, and they’ve been translated into over thirty languages. An entire generation has grown up searching for Waldo. Once again, in celebration of Waldo's longevity and popularity, Candlewick Press is once again teaming up with the American Booksellers Association and hundreds of independent bookstores across the country, including Books on Broad and Coffee in Camden, SC, for some hide-and-seek fun designed to encourage communities to patronize their local businesses. There is no charge to participate, and the hunt lasts for the entire month of July. For more information about hunting for Waldo in Camden, SC, call Books on Broad and Coffee at 803-713-7323. *All 25 participating businesses: Avon Books on Broad and Coffee Boykin Furniture Broad Street Lunch (BSL) Camden House of Pizza Camden Jewelers Candy’s at the Granary Everyday Downtown Flavors
Goodale Jewelers Habitat ReStore Ideation Spa Salon Kershaw & Co. Kimbrell’s Furniture Littlefield Growers Logan’s Appliance Center Longleaf Flowers Mad Batter
Main Squeeze Ole Timey Meat Market Palmetto Stitches and Quilts Rooster Trot Second Look Sweet Lili’s The Edge
Books on Broad is an independent bookstore and coffee shop located in downtown historic Camden, offering a broad selection of new, used, and collectible books. We are open Monday through Friday from 7:30 am – 6 pm, and on Saturday from 7:30 am – 4 pm. Shop from the website 24/7 at www.booksonbroad.com, where more than 5 Million books and ebooks are available for local pickup or nationwide delivery.
June 24, 2022
SC Black Belt Hall of Fame Honors Martial Artists
By: W. Thomas Smith Jr., Guest Writer
Top tournament fighters from around the nation gathered at Genova Family Karate for degreepromotions, fellowship, food, fun, and a veritable martial arts family reunion, May 14. Dubbed THE GATHERING 2022, the annual event attended by 200-plus martial artists including family and friends, recognized all of the members of the S.C. Black Belt Hall of Fame (SCBBHOF) while the S.C. High Dan Board (martial arts degree recognition body) promoted five black belts to 8th degree and more than 30 black belts to 5th degree. One of the black belts, previous Hall of Fame inductee and member of the S.C. State University Athletic Hall of Fame Tony Thomas, was awarded his 10th degree black belt. “The Gathering is a wonderful bonding experience reconnecting with lifelong friends going back to my college days for me personally,” says Keith Vitali, a world-renowned Karate champion, Hollywood star (numerous martial arts films), and recent inductee into the World Martial Arts Grand Masters Hall of Fame. Bruce Brutschy, who like Vitali is a SCBBHOF inductee, agrees. “This year’s event, as previous gatherings, gave us all the opportunity to share memories and to see how the sport of karate and all the workouts over the years have in various shaped our lives,” says Brutschy. “As instructors, it is also nice to see how well our students have turned out.” Brutschy adds: “This would not have happened without Mike Genova who always works tirelessly to make events like this happen.” Genova, the founding senior instructor at Genova Family Karate, is an inductee in – and the current president of – the SCBBHOF. “This event has achieved and achieves a number of significant things not the least of which is what we read in Proverbs 27:17,” says Genova. “‘As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another,’ and us being around one another – great martial artists, great personalities, great friends – and instead of us being competitors we are all sharpening and refining one another.” According to Genova, for him and others, karate is no longer simply about fighting and winning tournaments. “I always thought it was about karate, he says. “Today I know it is about Christ.
June 24, 2022
Pictured above – Black Belts (L-R) Steve Vitali, Mike Genova, Keith Vitali, David Estefano, Bruce Brutschy, and Bill McLeod. It’s about serving others.” Among the five who graduated to 8th degree were Blane Russell, who began training under Keith Vitali in 1972; Billee Purvis, owner-operator of Life Force Karate School; Ronnie McGirt, the current sergeant at arms for the S.C. Senate; and Bruce Hancock, training coordinator and instructor at the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy. Rick Vitali, brother of both Keith and decorated U.S. Marine Col. (Ret.) Steve Vitali, also received his 8th degree black belt. Rick is founding president and senior instructor of Vitali Family Karate in Lexington. Rick’s brother Steve, like Keith, is a SCBBHOF inductee. Thirty-one fighters were awarded their 5th degree black belts, including David Hoover, Eric Hoover, Alvin Mathews, Lizzie Carroll, Steve Sawyer, Scott Campbell, Jimmy Auld, Tim Putnam, Dean Cripps, Harold Shiflett, Luther Johnson, Robert Blizzard, Dexter Kennedy, Randy Blackwell, Col. Eric Boland, David Estefano, Kendall Edelen, John Hutchins, Chris Berman Riggan, Clay Douglas, Oliver Crout, Tommy Genova, Jimmy Jones, Bill McLeod, Steve Evans, Tony Bell, John Bellinger, Marshall Fields, Joe Fraccalvieri, Max Pierce, and Eric McAvoy. Among those in attendance from Kershaw County, included Genova’s special guest, retired Kershaw County Sheriff Jim Matthews; Dr. Eric Boland, headmaster at Camden Military Academy; Kershaw County Councilman Jimmy Jones; and Pastor Eric McAvoy.
“I also wanted to mention Dr. Tom Mullikin from Camden, one of our SCBBHOF inductees, would have attended had he not been on one of his expeditions to Ecuador and the Galapagos,” says Genova. The S.C. High Dan Board is composed of Keith Vitali, Brutschy, and Genova; all 10th degree black belts who received their rank by a group of international grandmasters who convened in Dallas, Texas in 2019. Since its inception in the 1980’s (officially founded in 2012), the SCBBHOF has become one of the most-respected martial arts halls of fame in the nation. Among its inductees are the Vitali brothers, Genova, Brutschy, Thomas, and “world renowned explorer” Dr. Tom Mullikin; also “karate greats” like Sam Chapman, Bobby Tucker, Marty Knight, and Tommy Genova, among others. EDITORIAL NOTE: W. Thomas Smith Jr., the author of this piece, was awarded an honorary black belt by the S.C. High Dan (degree) Board, May 14, 2022. He is one of only two recipients to have ever been honored as such by the state’s High Dan Board. “The High Dan Board took a great deal of pleasure honoring Tom for his service to the country and state,” says Brutschy. “He continues to stand on the wall that makes us all safer. Much respect.” The first recipient was Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott – the 2021 National Sheriff of the Year – who received his honorary black belt in 2012.
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Thank you, Kershaw County! It has been my honor and privilege to serve as your County Council Chairman these past 8 years. Many, many thanks for your support and counsel in the coming months as we continue to make Kershaw County the “Great Place” to live, worship, work and raise our families.
- Julian
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TEACHING
RESPECT DISCIPLINE COURTESY PERSEVERANCE GOAL-SETTING SINCE 1975 130-C Pontiac Business Center Drive, Elgin • 803.736.4777 • genovakarate.com 10
June 24, 2022
Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office Another Hero Gone Too Soon
Spartanburg County Deputy Austin Derek Aldridge (25) did not go home to his family Tuesday night. He was murdered while serving his community. Tuesday was a horrible day for Deputy Aldridge’s family, Spartanburg County, and all law enforcement officers across the nation. But remember, the other brave men and women of the Spartanburg County Sheriff ’s Office will continue to serve their community despite all the grief and evil they face. Please keep the SCSO in your prayers. Sheriff Lee Boan This happens too often. Officers go to work... knowing they may not go home. They tell their families bye... knowing it may be the last time. Their families support their decisions to do the job... knowing the job can take their lives. They don't make much money. They get criticized, demonized, and "Monday morning quarterbacked" for everything they do. They know a split second decision can cost them their lives, their freedom, their careers, their personal assets, etc. Officers and their families make these decisions every day. They knowingly agree to risk so much for the service of their communities. Law enforcement officers AND their families are true heroes. Love us or hate us, we will ALWAYS be there for you.
Lugoff Fire-Rescue Awarded $7,000 For Smoke Alarms Lugoff Fire-Rescue (LF-R) has been awarded a grant totaling $7,000 by Fairfield Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round-Up Program. This funding, with additional assistance from Lowe’s of Camden, enabled LF-R to purchase 278 smoke alarms and the tools to install the alarms including: two battery operated drills and accessories for the drills. LF-R Assistant Chief Will Catoe applied to Fairfield Electric Cooperative for assistance with this project. LF-R’s goal is to ensure each home in the Lugoff Fire District has working smoke alarms. This grant funding will allow Lugoff Firefighters to place working smoke alarms in homes that do not have them at NO CHARGE. Working smoke alarms save lives by giving occupants precious time to exit their home before being overcome by the toxins of smoke during a fire. Smoke alarms should be tested at least once a month and ensure everyone knows the sound of the alarm and how to respond. Ensure batteries are replaced at least once a year or replace smoke alarms with newer 10-year long-life alarms. Smoke alarms should be replaced when they are 10 years old. Smoke alarms should be
From left: Clay Hanna, Store Manager of the Camden Lowe’s, LF-R Assistant Chief Will Catoe, Mark Howard, Community & Member Relations Liaison Fairfield Electric Cooperative, and LF-R Fire Chief Chris Spitzer. installed in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home. If you need smoke alarms or would like LF-R to
conduct a free safety check of your home, please call LF-R at 803-438-2553 extension 1 or visit us at LF-R Headquarters.
It’s that time again! We’re completing a Community Health Needs Assessment for Kershaw county (completed every three years) and we need YOUR help in completing a brief survey. We need to make sure we get feedback from everyone. This survey will give us feedback on what areas need to be addressed related to community health and wellness. Thank you for taking a few minutes of your time for this important activity. English survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KershawCHNA
June 24, 2022
Spanish survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KershawCHNAesp
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