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The Mask Question
By: Melissa Emmons Elgin Mayor
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Letters to the Editor The Elgin News P.O. Box 152 Elgin, SC 29045
Cate Goff, Editor (803) 513-5108
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Fred Davidson, Sales Manager (803) 466-4604
The topic is sensitive, the support is divided, but the need is obvious. Last night the Elgin Town Council debated the need for a face covering ordinance and after much discussion, the item failed with a vote of 2-2. This is a very disheartening decision, but I commend Council for holding a positive and respectful dialogue as we tackled the matter. I personally will continue to wear a mask when I enter a public facility or in a situation in which I am not able to observe social distancing because I trust the information being provided by the medical experts at CDC, SC DHEC, the Surgeon General of the United States and other health organizations that are recommending the use of face coverings as a means of preventing the spread of COVID-19. Too many lives have been lost to this virus and to think that some may possibly have been prevented if those they had come in contact with had simply worn a mask. According to SC Attorney General Alan Wilson, local mask ordinances are not unconstitutional as many have stated. My fear is that we will likely see the case counts continue to rise in our community if we do not find a way to contain the spread, which wearing a mask could possibly do. Even though it is not mandated in our community, I encourage you to join me and mask up to protect our families, our friends, our neighbors and visitors in the Town of Elgin. COVID-19 can spread quickly and easily, even by people who don’t have any symptoms. Wear a mask so we can all work to stay Kershaw Strong. #KCStrong By: Dana Sloan Elgin Town Council
The proposed mandatory mask ordinance was a controversial topic, evoking varying emotions and opinions throughout our community. A beloved family member of mine is recovering from COVID-19, and I’ve personally experienced the fear and heartache this virus brings; however, after asking for input from the community and hearing legal background from the town’s lawyer, I voted no. Many people don’t realize that Elgin only has a criminal court. This was a civil ordinance, not criminal, and therefore couldn’t be prosecuted through Elgin’s criminal court. If you watch the recorded meeting on Facebook (minutes 37:20-39:10) you hear Council being told that without civil court (where a fine and/or jail would be enforced) “you just have to ask them very nicely would they mind paying the $100.” Then you hear, “a civil penalty really has very little teeth.” In short, it couldn’t be enforced. Here are my thoughts regarding Council’s mask discussion. How could we vote yes to an ordinance knowing it’s not enforceable? How could we vote yes and make business owners enforce controversial mandates, when businesses have already been so negatively affected by COVID? How could we vote yes and put our LEOs, who are already working in hostile environments, in a position where they must confront and ticket citizens, while knowing it’s legally not truly enforceable? EPD’s normal shifts only have one patrol officer on duty. Do we want that officer called away to write an unenforceable civil ticket, instead of performing their patrol duties? I’d endorse a proclamation asking citizens to wear masks. I believe in wearing masks when you cannot social distance. I believe businesses have every right to mandate their own mask rules and citizens have the right to shop/eat/bank where they feel safe. I just don’t believe in passing ordinances, knowing they can’t be enforced.
@theelginnews 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 July 10, 2020
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July 10, 2020
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Beat The 'Dog Days' of Summer
down. My friends and I enjoyed sitting outside telling ghost stories and watching the night, time sky waiting for a falling star for us to wish upon: “Wish I may, wish I might, have my wish I wish tonight!” We would listen It’s July! Summertime living at its best to our transistor radios hoping the Deejay would play our favorite songs of with a cold watermelon in the refrigerator the summer. Sometimes we ate boiled peanuts and drank coca cola in a 6 1/2 and homemade peach ice cream in the freez- oz. glass bottle. Usually our homes had a window air condition unit in our parent’s beder. “Summertime when the living is easy:” “When a Summer Breeze makes me feel rooms while the rest of our homes were cooled with attic, ceiling, or rotating fans. I remember my mother and Nanny sitting on the porch while neighbors fine.” July, the prime vacation month, celebrates visited shelling peas or butter beans. I was always amazed at how quickly our country’s independence July 4 with a they could shell, and I have wondered to this day why what they shelled, they party that lasts until late night and usually called a “mess.” July 3 is the midpoint of the year. As a teacher I always reminded myself ends with fireworks. Our country has been celebrating our freedoms with that July would give way to August, and the opening of school would start fireworks since 1777. This year 2020 will there be firework celebrations? “Fruits and vegetables __home garden grown produce—always tastes bet- during the “Dog Days.” Senior citizens can remember “Back in the Day” ter in July.” Those wise words came from my late father in law who gardened when we were students in school, our start date was after Labor Day. Schools were not air conditioned then because it did not become available all of his life. I miss his homegrown tomatoes and sharing my love for a tountil the middle or late 70’s. In the 1975-76 school year, because of overmato sandwich with him as I did with my daddy. It’s hot! It’s humid! The birds are not singing like they did in June. Insects crowding, a new air conditioned wing was built onto Lugoff Elgin Middle are everywhere especially fire ants and mosquitoes. The “Dog Days” of sum- School. It had 8 classrooms with a library in the center of the new building. mer are here. When I started drafting this article, I assumed “Dog Days” was I was excited to teach Language arts and English I in one of the new eighth a term we used in the South to describe the miserable heat of our summer grade classrooms. It was not very long after Principal Larry Patrick pushed for the rest of the classrooms at the school to have air condition. He was as days. A little research proved me wrong. The term “Dog Days” comes from the ancient Romans who pointed to dedicated to his students as his teachers. He always said, “The classroom the appearance of Sirius (Dog), the brightest star in the constellation Canis needs to give the students comfort to learn.” The school had a dress code when I was a student and the same was folMajor. Sirius rises with the setting sun and appears closer in alightment to the sun in the summer months. The Romans thought this period was a time lowed by the teachers. No shorts, sundresses, or open toed shoes. Females of bad luck, unpredictable weather and drought. The Old Farmer’s Almanac were required to wear skirts with blouses or dresses which measured below lists the “Dog Days” to be from July3__August 11. According to my research, the knee. Males were not allowed to wear tee shirts or shoes without socks. there has been a “Wobble” (tilt) in the Earth’s rotation around the sun, and All males had to wear dress shirts tucked in their pants with a belt. At the beginning of my third year at LEMS girls were allowed to wear pants, and the new dates are a few weeks later: July 22-Aug. 22. No matter the folk lore, the days of July and August are the hottest days female teachers were also granted that privilege if we wore a “pants suit.” in our Northern Hemisphere. The highest temperature 104 was the recorded Male teachers still had to wear a dress shirt, but the male students could wear tee shirts. in Columbia July 23, 2011. The average temperatures range from 73 to 92. It’s summer! The temperature is rising. If you can think of ways to beat the Growing up in the South we spent our summer evenings on the front porch, out in our yards or riding around in cars with the windows rolled heat of the “Dog Days,” contact us at The Elgin News! By: Liz Simon Staff Writer
Arts Center of KC Offers Virtual Learning
students to draw a self portrait. People oftentimes find classes like this intimidating, but with the right instructor, anyone can be an artist! You will end up with your very own masterpiece by the end of the course. Amanda Britt is The Arts Center of Kershaw County has offered classes for the community offering several theatre-style classes, including Fairtytale Puppet Theatre and since I was a child. When I was three, I was in my first play at the Center! My How To Read Music. Amanda is also a fantastic voice coach and offers her costume was a grocery bag that I decorated to look like a bunny, ears and all, voice classes weekly. Dr. Kevin McKinney is teaching all sorts of fun music and I can’t recall a time when I’ve felt more like a star. classes! Whether it’s brass, guitar, piano, or even songwriting (just to name Around the same age, I took my first art class, which I believe led me to a few), Kevin has you covered. Helen Walker, a semi-finalist for a Grammy pursue a career in the arts. The memories, family videos, and artwork that Music Educator Award, will be teaching music classes as well as Line Dancwere created in my childhood because of those classes are irreplaceable. I ing. This is definitely a first for us! What better way to learn a new style of have taken everything I learned as a child and in high school at the Center dance than in the privacy of your own home? Sign your whole family up and with me throughout my entire life. dance together! Children are welcome, too. Jack Pierce is bringing his skills Now as the Director of Marketing at the Arts Center, it’s a pleasure to to the table and teaching a course called Storytelling with Art. He will be know that these traditions have been carried on throughout the years. I see covering art involving graphic design, animation, video game art, comics, and children and adults of all ages learning and experiencing the arts and it’s novels. Finally, Jessie Britt will be teaching Art for Kids. We expect many absolutely beautiful. little Picassos to emerge! Until Covid hit. I remember the first day we knew Kershaw County had These times have definitely been trying for the world of the arts. Broadway become an epicenter. All of a sudden, our packed-full season became empty. is closed until 2021, the entertainment industry is all but closed, and we are Our classrooms had no students and our stage had no performers. This virus all just feeling our way through it. There is one thing I know for sure howhas been devastating, but we still have one thing going for us: the internet. ever, and that is that no one is getting through these days without the arts. Starting now, we are offering a Virtual Learning Series - our entire curricu- Whether it’s Netflix or the music app you use, the arts give you a place in lum is available online! We have added new classes, too! There are several which to escape, even if only for a song. So take it one step further and learn classes for children as well as adults. We tried to offer something for every- a skill in the arts. You will learn something new and discover a side of yourself one. Lori Isom, a South Carolina artist, will be conducting a course teaching you never knew existed. You will become an artist. By: Stephanie Keel, Arts Center of Kershaw County Guest Writer
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July 10, 2020
From The Chief ’s Desk... We had no serious incidents on the 4th of July weekend. We did have additional manpower out and patrolling but other than a lot of noise we had no problems relating to the holiday. Thanks go out to our entire community for making this a safe time for everyone. I have received several questions about fireworks, golf carts and ATVs/4wheelers. The Town of Elgin’s’ fireworks ordinance was judged to be illegal by the Attorney General and our Town attorney a few years back so we cannot enforce it. ATVs/and 4 wheelers are not legal to operate on the streets or highways. Golf carts must be registered, insured and have a licensed driver 16 years of age or older. They cannot be driven at night and must be within 4 miles of the registrant’s home. Check with the D.O.T. website for further restrictions. The Elgin Police Department is sad to announce the pending retirement of Officer F. Scott Meyers, who has served in Law Enforcement for
25 years. Scott has been with the Elgin Police Department for approx. 2 1/2 years and worked previously with Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Department, Lee County Sheriff ’s Dept. and Darlington County Sheriff ’s Office. Scott has been an important asset to the Town of Elgin Chief Harold Brown making the highest number of D.U.I. cases, and among the top in drug related cases. Scott was named Officer of the year for 2018 due to his outstanding pro active work. More importantly Scott was a community oriented police officer, always going above and beyond what was required by his job description. Scott’s retirement will be official on July 31, but the good news is Scott has agreed to work part-time on an as needed basis with us. And remember “Just be Kind” to each other.
The Mask Question
By: Brad Hanley Elgin Mayor Pro Tem
By: Ed Smith Elgin Town Council
In view of the Covid-19 pandemic, and recent spike in cases, Council determined we should evaluate the use of face masks and consider enactment of a town ordinance to facilitate increased use. We did so last Tuesday night, voting 2-2, with the ordinance failing to pass. I believe the “yes” voters gave more credence to the health experts rather than social media opinions. My reasons for advocating for a 61-day mask ordinance: Almost all, if not all, medical experts, locally and nationally, including the CDC and SCDHEC (and officials) are calling for the use of masks to slow the spread. It seems now that the science is clear and it’s logical that a covering of one’s face will likely help with “droplets,” which is perhaps the primary way the virus spreads. Second, asymptomatic people may be unknowingly spreading it. I wouldn’t want to be one who spread it, resulting in a death or health impairment as some have experienced after “recovery.” Third, it’s a small price to pay for potentially big gain: it might help open our economy faster and allow for more human interaction earlier than if these “spikes” continue. Fourth, it may reduce cases and deaths while our scientists strive to develop a vaccine and better treatments. Fifth, it’s a temporary suspension of our rights (in this case, to not do something.) We get that back in short order. Lastly, I suggested if we found the ordinance caused too many problems, such as citizen or business spats, too many unhappy people, enforcement problems, etc., nothing would prevent us from an emergency session to repeal it. Even without our ordinance, I join in others encouraging all to wear a mask. I praise and thank our citizens, scientists, those on the front-line and in the supply chain – phenomenal job!
A mandatory mask ordinance has been proposed by numerous municipalities across SC. Various municipalities had voted to enact as well as defeat such an ordinance. This is a divisive subject, within the community, as seen across social media. The CDC, DHEC and WHO recommend sanitizing, social distancing and wearing of masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. There is no refuting the science with these three recommendations. They do work if practiced correctly. Enforcing a mandated civil ordinance, within Elgin town limits, would place the burden on business owners. I would not feel comfortable placing this divisive ordinance in their hands to enforce. Law enforcement has taken its bumps and bruises over the past couple of months. The proposed ordinance would place the civil enforcement into the Elgin Police Department’s scope to enforce. The Town of Elgin has one officer on patrol. This officer would be required to answer complaints from business owners as well as citizens inside the town limits. Our officers should be focused on the criminal side, while on duty, versus enforcing such a controversial civil ordinance. The Town of Elgin lacks a civil court. A civil court shall be required if an individual is to request their due process of the law. This was discussed at July’s council meeting. Also, collecting a fine is just as challenging as enforcing this ordinance. I encourage citizens to wear masks if it makes them feel secure. I side with business owners to enact their own standards, inside their establishment. I support EPD to focus on criminal activities versus civil ones. I, in good conscience, was unable to vote “yes” on a divisive ordinance that may not be effectively enforceable and an overreach of government.
July 10, 2020
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Elgin Woman Graduates From West Point
Four years ago, Hannah Potter left Elgin for West Point, NY to attend the United States Military Academy. On June 13th, she graduated from West Point and was commissioned on June 28th. Though Hannah's mother Paula Potter knew her daughter was exceptional, having much success at Lugoff Elgin High, including being the valedictorian of the Class of 2016, she still had concerns that Hannah would make the cut to attend West Point. "She had always done very well in school but there were difficult physical requirements as well," says Paula. "West Point only accepts around 1200 students each year out of approximately 11,000 -12,000 applicants. We just didn't want her to be disappointed if she didn't get chosen." In addition to the academic and physical requirements to enter West Point, each student must also have a Congressional nomination. "That was what worried us most," says Paula. "But she went through the interview process and not only got the nomination for West Point she was awarded nominations to two other service academies as well." Hannah's parents are proud of her journey and work ethic. " We are so proud of her determination, her hard work her ability to remain calm in stressful situations and how she doesn't always take the easy road," says Paula. For Hannah, West Point has helped shape the person she is today. "I am so grateful for the opportunities that West Point has given me as well as the many lessons I have learned there," says Potter. "It has challenged me and made me into a better person, soldier, and leader. I am honored and excited to lead soldiers in the world’s greatest army." Hannah is grateful for the support network that helped her achieve this goal. "I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to where I am today. These accomplishments are not mine alone," says Potter. "I have family, friends, teachers, mentors, classmates, and community members that have supported me throughout my journey, and I could not have done this without them." Major General (Retired) and Kershaw County Council Chair Julian Burns commissioned Hannah during the ceremony on June 28th. "A great officer after unmatched achievements at LEHS and West Point," says Burns. "My wife Ruth Ann and myself join with all of Elgin and Kershaw County in congratulations to Lt. Potter and her family." Next up for Hannah is training in Oklahoma, followed by duty in Texas. "At the end of July I report to Fort Sill, OK for Air Defense Artillery Basic Officer Leader Course," says Potter. "After that, I report to my next duty sta- Top: Hannah Potter is commissioned by mentor Major General (Retired) Julian tion - Fort Bliss, TX." Burns. Bottom: Potter pictured with her parents John and Paula Potter.
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July 10, 2020
'American Military Timeline' Event
On Saturday, July 4th, an Independence Day “American Military Timeline” event was held at Louise C. Proctor Hall in Camden. The goal of this patriotic event was to remember the services of United States veterans from the American Revolution to Modern times. The event featured a timeline living history and display throughout the day showing the camps, uniforms, weapons, equipment and more. Additionally, there were various presentations throughout the day; includ-
ing a reading of the Declaration of Independence and an informal Pass-inReview. On Saturday night, there was a Candlelight Illumination from 7 pm to 9 pm, in commemoration of all of Kershaw County's Military casualties from the American Revolution to Modern times. Each of the 280 candles lit represents a Kershaw County veteran who died while in service from 1775 to 2010.
Tanks A Lot
Elgin native and industrial coating sales representative Nick Vause just couldn’t take it anymore. “When the Rose Street tank in Elgin was vandalized with graffiti several years back, it was really disappointing to see something many people had worked so hard to improve defaced,” says Vause. Vause has worked for Tnemec, for over 15 years. Tnemec Company, Inc. specializes in protecting surfaces and structures from corrosion with highperformance coatings and linings for a variety of industrial projects including potable water tanks. “I have worked with Lugoff Elgin Water Authority (LEWA) for 15 years now. One of my first water tank projects was helping LEWA repaint the two tanks in Elgin,” says Vause. “Given I grew up on Dogwood Ave. in Elgin, not even a mile from the tanks, it was very special to help with the rehab and improvements to something so visible and important to anyone who lives in or passes through the town.” As most anyone who travels through Elgin knows, several years ago, the tank was vandalized. “Every time I would pass the tank, it would just annoy me,” says Vause. “I spoke to my friend and Water Systems Consultant Andy Tillman of Suez/ Utility Service, and we decided to help LEWA since they had always been so supportive of our companies.” Vause reached out to Mike Hancock and Troy Jeffers at LEWA to get the ball rolling. “Mike and Troy accepted our offer and helped arrange access to the tank so we could cover up the graffiti,” says Vause. “After a couple hours, and a little more of the Tnemec high performance coating, we had the graffiti spot covered and the tank looking great again.” The Elgin tanks are now almost ten years old from their last repaint. Given their superior condition and lack of corrosion, they should last another 10 years before needing another repaint. This is quite an impressive feat from a great team including LEWA, Suez/Utility Service and Tnemec. July 10, 2020
Above: Nick Vause stands beside the newly repainted water tank in Elgin. Vause organized a collaboration between his company Tnemec, Suez/Utility Service out of Boiling Springs, and Lugoff Elgin Water Authority. “Now, once again, I am very proud every time I ride through Elgin,” says Vause. It makes me feel very good to be able to leave a positive mark on a town that left a huge mark on my life.” Next time you ride through Elgin, be sure to glance up at the newly restored tank. Mayor Melissa Emmons, along with the entire Town of Elgin, appreciates this effort to improve our town. “What a beautiful site to look up and see the graffiti that had been on the LEWA water tower for several years finally removed and replaced with a fresh coat of paint,” says Emmons. “Thank you Nick for taking care of this blemish that was in the line of view for many as they traveled through the Elgin community.”
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KCSD Announces Position Changes Explore Camden With Audio Tour
The Kershaw County School Board named Lugoff-Elgin High School (LEHS) Principal Worth Thomasson as its new Coordinator for K-12 Science effective July 1. “Mr. Thomasson will be able to help us better focus on our efforts to prepare students for job opportunities in the STEM field,” said KCSD Superintendent Shane Robbins. “His background as a former science teacher and principal as well as his experience in professional development will work together well to help him be successful,” says Robbins. Thomasson has been LEHS principal for seven years and previously served in the same role at North Central High School from 2007 to 2014. He was named KCSD Principal of the Year in
2011. The school board also accepted the retirements of KCSD Professional Development/Recruitment Director Burch Richardson and Early Childhood Education Coordinator Pam Whitehead. Richardson previously served as the district’s Secondary Education/Professional Development Director for over a year and was the principal of North Central Middle School for 14 years. He was named the KCSD Principal of the Year in 2007 and the Kershaw County Reading Administrator of the Year in 2008. Whitehead taught pre-school through 8th grade in a career that has spanned over 30 years. Responsible for 4K curriculum and instruction, she also oversaw the district’s initiative to offer full-day 4-year-old kindergarten districtwide.
Explore Camden through the city's online audio tours or phone app. Both can be accessed on the city's website - classicallycarolina.com Enjoy these web-based audio tours of four of Camden's historic Districts. Each "pulse" leads to a video link and there is a navigation bar at the bottom of each page. If you have any questions about the sites, please contact the Tourism Office via email at classicallycarolina@camdensc.org
KershawHealth Reinstates Zero Visitor Policy
KershawHealth announced that it is reinstating a zero visitor protocol due to the increase in novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the community. The updated restrictions will no longer allow for inpatient visitation or companions for outpatient surgery visits, effective immediately. “Our hospital’s top priority is safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our patients, providers, employees and community,” said Sue Shugart, chief executive officer (CEO) of KershawHealth. “We continue to monitor closely the prevalence of the virus in our community as we adapt our operaThomasson Whitehead Richardson tions to safely care for and support our patients, and the resurgence of positive COVID-19 cases warrants us to move to a zero-visitor protocol at this time.” Zero Visitor Policy • Zero visitation for inpatients. The family is to select a point of contact who will be updated with The LiveWell Kershaw Coalition will have a fitness circuit available in the Kirkwood community. progress of the patient. Signage will mark where the circuit begins and what exercises you can do. If you cannot do one of the • We will suspend allowing a companion to acmoves, no problem! Do whatever movement feels most comfortable to you. Video demonstrations to company surgery patients into the hospital. come! Instructions will be given to surgery patients deMany thanks to Franklin Alexander for his assistance in set up. These circuits can be done solo and tailing steps to follow for drop-off and pick-up of socially distanced. surgery patients. • We will continue to screen everyone who enters our facilities for symptoms consistent with COVID-19 per CDC guidelines. • We will continue to allow one WELL companion with Labor and Delivery patients. • All persons seeking care at KershawHealth The Arts Center of Kershaw County is now offering virtual summer classes for children, teens, and must wear a face covering at all times while in the adults in visual art, music, and theater. Stay tuned for an announcement soon about a new and innova- facility. tive theater performance and other exciting opportunities! For additional updates on how the hospital is As always, the top priority is the safety and well-being of patrons, staff, and the communities served. working to maintain a safe and supportive enviThe Arts Center will continue to monitor the situation, follow guidelines and update as needed. For ronment during the COVID-19 pandemic, please more info, visit the Arts Center website or follow them on Facebook. visit www.KershawHealth.org
Pop Up Fitness Circuit Available
Arts Center Online
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July 10, 2020
From The Chairman's Desk By: Julian Burns, KC Council Chairman
ertheless is a good one. It will provide excellence in services in Sheriff, Fire, Public Works, EMS and so many functions that you deserve. Also, we will continue to work with the 2020 CENSUS that is so important. Moreover, all A Happy Fourth of July to us all! With the of us strive to achieve with limited resources what you the citizens asked in last Holiday of Summer, I take time to deliver VisionKershaw2030. However, a great budget, and jobs and quality of life are a monthly report of our County’s progress. I all at risk if the Pandemic is not contained. must say that we are in for a tough Summer, We will, at the present rate, exceed 700 cases this week, and that staggering made tougher in the pandemic by accelerating number means 1 in every 100 in our County is infected, in just one month positive cases caused by our own citizens failing more cases than all the previous three combined. To give perspective, we are in common sense precautions on their own be- 21st in population, but 11th in cases per capita in South Carolina. This “comhalf. And, though sorely tried by the economy munity spread” virus will hurt our jobs and our school re-openings. We must and the virus, we are KC STRONG. We can do better – how can businesses, large or small, sustain current enterprise or do this. Indeed, almost two years before the Revolution itself, the origins of bring new business when they cannot count on a healthy workforce? So, I say “KC Strong” were shown right here in 1774. Even before there was a Ker- again: wear the mask, wash your hands, keep the distance, and stay home if shaw County we had the grit and determination needed to win the American sick -- to protect others that depend on us like the vulnerable and the elderly. Revolution. Our great community needs new resolve in the pandemic. I ask for real “KC Strong” was coined only this year, yet it has always lived within our immediacy, when resources and expectations are misaligned, dreams set aside, people – acting as the battle hymn of our community during war and strife and whole fortunes demolished. As St. Paul says in Galatians 6:9, “...let us and in the rhythm of our lands during peace and prosperity. not grow weary of doing good things….” In the “Spirit of 1774,” and of And today, it’s the motivation we use to act in common cause to crush this “1776,” too, we rouse ourselves in our homes, churches, schools, businesses virus and restore our economy and quality of life. Before Thomas Jefferson’s and public life to grasp problems with power and goodwill as we promised immortal Declaration, Colonials pronounced in downtown Camden “….that in VisionKershaw2030. A calling to match our ancient 1774 Revolutionary we cannot be bound by any law without our consent…” and “,..as one step resolve against our more modern challenges, because we, like our ancestors, towards the defense of our rights, dearer to us than our lives and fortunes,… are #KCStrong. think it our indispensable duty to ourselves, ….and our Posterity … resolved to maintain our Constitutional Rights.” “Our Posterity.” That’s us. Almost 250 years ago, the Authors wrote about those to follow them, “We the People” of this 21st century. Our ancestors were a tough bunch, and so are we. We manifest a balance: fierce loyalty to individual rights and in equal measure to one people in community, in enterprise and in churches. In that same spirit, we must do what is right for our future. In this pandemic we must muster together in faith, history and our very nature to show a zeal for Liberty, Prosperity and Human Rights that distinguished our Revolutionary ancestors. Though we, too, are not “bound by law without our consent,” why should we NOT wish to do what is helpful to ourselves and others – like wearing a mask in public and practicing good hygiene? There is much to do. The work of running the County is undeterred by the ongoing pandemic: a new budget for the County was just passed as the hard work of County government continues. Be assured on that point! The budget was founded upon a measure of uncertainty as to revenues; yet, it nev-
803.513.5108 • elginnews@gmail.com July 10, 2020
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FREE COMMUNITY COVID-19 TESTING EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY IN JULY 10:00 AM - 1 :00 PM 124 BATTLESHIP ROAD, CAMDEN, SC 29020
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July 10, 2020
Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office
Be The Change It seems to be pretty popular these days to blame law enforcement for all of our country’s problems...though we have some bad apples. Even if law enforcement officers were perfect (which we are NOT), we represent less than 1% of our nation’s population. Should we not have any expectations of the other 99+% of Americans???
Sheriff Lee Boan
Be the change you want. Start with the person you see in the mirror. We all need to improve on being better Americans. This goes for all of us... regardless of the color of our skin or whether or not we choose to wear a mask in public. YOU DON’T NEED A BADGE TO BE A PEACEMAKER
Camden Junior Welfare League
The Camden Junior Welfare League began in January of 1928 when twelve young women met at the Palmetto Tea Room to discuss the formation of a social club to do child welfare work in Kershaw County. Membership has grown, at times including as many as 75 women, but the mission of the League has always been to improve and enrich the social and economic environment of the children of Kershaw County, as well as foster among its members interest in social, cultural, economic, and civil affairs of Camden and Kershaw County. The Camden Junior Welfare League motto is "My Part is to improve the present moment," which has allowed the organization to adapt and identify need as times have changed. Throughout the last nine decades, the League has funded pediatric physician, eye and dental exams, as well as provided equipment to school nurses; provided clothing, personal items and other assistance to Kershaw County families with children in need; funded scholarships to Kershaw
Top: Members of the CJWL sit ready to welcome guests to the 2018 Candlelight Tour of Homes. The Tour is the League’s largest annual fundraiser, and is a Camden holiday tradition. This year's Candlelight Tour is scheduled for December 12th. Bottom: Current CJWL President Caitlin Jones (right) and Vice President Katharine Spadacenta (left) stand outside the League’s headquarters on DeKalb Street in Camden, where the organization motto is displayed across the front windows. July 10, 2020
County high school graduates pursuing an education in a helping industry; and funded nonprofit grants to organizations serving Kershaw County youth. In more recent years, the League has added classroom grants to Kershaw County School District educators, and has added an annual boutique day known as “Belle of the Ball,” which provides prom gowns and accessories free charge to young women in Kershaw County who would otherwise not be able to afford to attend prom; and volunteered member time and services to other community organizations such as the Carolina Cup Racing Association, the Arts Center of Kershaw County, Kershaw County Parks and Recreation Department, Special Olympics, Junior Achievement, United Way of Kershaw County, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Camden Jaycees, the Department of Social Services and many others. The League’s signature fundraising event, the Candlelight Tour of Homes is entering its 44th year and is scheduled for Saturday, December 12, 2020. The League has also hosted other events and fundraisers throughout the years, including an antique market, which is tentatively scheduled for the first weekend in May 2021; the 4th Annual Touch-A-Truck event, in partnership with the KC Parks and Rec Dept.; the publication of a cookbook with favorite Southern recipes, which has had three editions; as well as smaller events with a variety of themes over the years. This summer, the League will launch a history project, and invites all sustainers and past members of the League to help identify photos that have been collected throughout the years and share any additional League photos. More information will soon be available at www.camdenleague.org. The Camden Junior Welfare League is open to women who live and/or work in Kershaw County, between the ages of 21 and 50. Women who join the League are asked to commit to five years as active members, attending meetings and volunteering at the organization’s major events, as well as community events the League supports. Upon completion of five years of service, women are able to transition to become sustaining members, who are welcome but not required to participate in the League’s events. The League has an information session coming up on Sunday, July 26th via Zoom for women who are interested in learning more. A link to that event can be found at www.camdenleague.org, and an orientation for new members will be held Saturday, August 1st. The first meeting of the League will be Monday, August 3rd. The community is able to support the Camden Junior Welfare League and its work by attending one of the League’s fundraising events throughout the year, purchasing a cookbook on the League’s website, or making a direct donation to support the League’s work by mailing a check to Camden Junior Welfare League, P.O. Box 578 Camden, SC 29021.
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Our Family Caring For Your Family Since 1931
Over 30 Years’ Experience!
Camden Chapel 1112 Fair Street, Camden, SC 29020
803-432-3583
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Lugoff-Elgin Chapel 1139 Highway 1 S, Lugoff, SC 29078
803-438-3419
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512 Rutledge Street, Camden, SC dncannon@bellsouth.net
www.kornegayfuneral.com
www.denniscannonjr.com
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Book a Genova Family Karate Birthday Party before Friday, July 31st for any available date in 2020 and receive $50 off with $50 deposit!
90 minutes Hosted by a Black Belt Instructor We do all set up & clean up! Select Saturdays See office for availability
Genova Family Karate Birthday Parties are regularly priced at $250. We will take $50 off the cost of your party if you book it on or before Friday, July 31st, 2020, for any available 2020 dates, and submit a $50 nonrefundable deposit. Deposits may be made with check, cash, or card (excluding American Express). Offer ends on Friday, July 31st, 2020. Discount not available for parties outside of 2020.