Volume 17, No. 7B
July 23, 2021
Victory Sports Camp 2021
rty Owner,
s “You reap what
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! kr?of 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
Story Page 7
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, July 6, 2021, at 6:00 pm at the Elgin Town Hall. All members of Council were present except for Councilman Hanley and Councilwoman Sloan. Councilman Rizzo participated via ZOOM. The Invocation was given by Mayor Emmons and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The first order of business was the approval of the minutes from the Regular Meeting held on Tuesday, June 1, 2021. There was no one signed up to speak during Public Forum. The agenda was amended to schedule discussion of the following items at a Special Business Meeting on Tuesday, July 20, 2021: Ordinance 238-Election Dates/Times-2nd Reading, Municipal Judge Recommendation and the Amendment to the Elgin Zoning Ordinance-Section 9.3-2-Written Notification. The following Business License Applications were approved for the month of June 2021: (1) Eyers Accounting & Tax Services, LLC-an accounting firm located at 2406 Bowen Street in Elgin and (2) Broom Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.-Heating, Air and Electrical-located at 1232 Blythewood Road in Blythewood. The following Charity Permit Request was approved for the month of June 2021: (1) Family Worship Center-Car Wash Fundraiser on June 12, 2021, at 2463 Main Street in Elgin. There were no Complaints for the month of June 2021. If you or your organization wishes to hold a fundraising event in the Town of Elgin, please remember to check with Elgin Town Hall about completing a Charity Permit Request Form prior to the event taking place. Also, please remember to support the businesses in the Elgin Community and shop local. No one signed up to speak during the Public Hearing for the Annexation Request for 1282 Sessions Road in Elgin. The 2nd Reading is scheduled for Tuesday, August 3, 2021. In Old Business, approval was provided for Mayor Emmons to run the advertisement for the Accounting Services for Payroll Bid. The deadline for bids to be submitted is Monday, August 16, 2021, and the information has been listed on the town’s website and social media as well as ads in the Chronicle Independent and The Elgin News. In New Business, Chief Anders informed Council of the recent random Safety Point Checks and traffic issues that included (9) Failure to Stop for Blue Lights since January 1st, with (4) occurring in the past week. He discussed the monthly Incident Reports and stated that they are much higher than this time last year. He also advised Council of the recent resignation of one of our Crossing Guards and that he is accepting applications for the position. In Council Briefing, Councilman Ed Smith had no report. Councilman Paul Rizzo had no report. Mayor Emmons reminded Council of the Special Business Meeting that is scheduled for Tuesday, July 20, 2021, at 6:00. Attorney John Wells reminded our Clerk that once Ordinance 238 is approved, that a copy needs to be scanned and emailed to the Kershaw County Election Commission for our upcoming election in November 2021. Our next regular scheduled meeting will be on Tuesday, August 3, 2021, 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 are informed, you are empowered. Also, we now broadcast our monthly council meetings live on the “Town of Elgin” Facebook Page. If I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to contact me by phone at 803-309-1385 or email at Melissa. emmons@townofelginsc.com.
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 23, 2021
July 23, 2021
3
Senior Cruise Memories, Part II
drink being extremely hot as well as the noon day sun. After the bullfight we returned to the ship, cooled off, and rested until the others returned from their adventure. Around three we took a wild $3 cab The sweltering sun beamed brightly on the ride to the Plaza four blocks from the ship to shop. white sands, the stress of the Mexican soldiers It was siesta time, so no Mexicans were out and about except in the pool with machine guns guarding the beach at hall by the liquor store. We purchased bottles of pure vanilla for our mothers Playa del Carmen, the sad songs of the beau- to use in baking. tiful children forced to beg… these scenes We made the decision to walk back to the ship instead of taking a maypop will always haunt my memory. I fought off a tire taxicab ride. As we were nearing the docks, I remembered seeing a contension headache as we returned to the ship cerned look on Annette's face. She said, “That’s not our ship, is it?” by tinder boats. I looked up where she was pointing, and there on the top deck was a group Annette Wertz recalled that dinner was the of boys. I knew without a doubt it was our group! Before I could complete main event of every evening, and that the girls in our group were the most my thought, I saw one male jump and hit the water. My heart sank with his beautiful, and the boys were always handsome in their sports coats. body. Then the others jumped in for the rescue, and as we ran to the docks, We were always entertained by singing troubadours. I knew the group was my heart was in my throat. excited about the French themed evening planned with a Can-Can show and Greg Newman said,” My most memorable moment was when I jumped dancing in the clubs. I was too pooped for the party at the midnight buffet. off the ship. I was very thankful my friends were right there to help me swim I had no problem falling asleep to the lull of the ship rocking in the waves. to the pier. I did not hear the ship dock in Cozumel alongside eight other cruise linBill DeWitt said he remembered the senior guys surprising him with a ers. Annette, Lisa Joyner Coombs, and I had decided the night before that cake, and the waiters singing Happy Birthday. “A birthday cake or graduwe wanted to go to the bullfight as our excursion. (Shades of my love for ation cake, whatever it was we all enjoyed it. That was only 34 years ago. I Ernest Hemingway novels and Annette and Lisa’s love of Spanish) Most of remember the group was always full of surprises. They were fun and wanted the senior guys decided to go with us while the rest decided to go snorkeling. everyone to have as good a time as they had.” Cozumel is famous for the world's second largest reef :the Coral Reef next Jimmy Ray remembered several who were seasick, but not for long. to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The cruise director told us that Cozumel Other highlights from our trip…watching our ship pull anchor…then sailwas considered one of the best locations for snorkeling. ing out of Cozumel… the next day (Thursday) we spent cruising at sea… At 9:00 Mexican time we posed with the matador on the dock for photos games, talent shows, and swimsuit competitions as we sat in deck chairs and bought our $20 tickets to the bullfight. In Mexico today there are 225 around the pool…. winning money in the casino to pay for the professional bull rings because bull fighting is still popular. We only had to walk a short photos, celebrating July with the waiters singing “God Bless America” and distance (less than a mile) from the ship to locate the bull ring. They an- serving us Baked Alaskan for dessert. nounced before the bullfight started that the bull would be donated to the In the summer of 1987, there were memories made and friendships local orphanage for food. Annette remembered how gross it was with blood strengthen to last for a lifetime. Thank you again to Class President Julie everywhere! Robert Stockman recalled buying a coca cola for $10, and the Turner Stockman for helping me recall these moments to remember. By: Liz Simon Staff Writer
Camden High Class of '81 Reunion
Camden High School’s Class of 1981 held their 40th reunion at the Camden Shrine Club. Photo courtesy Johnny Deal. 4
July 23, 2021
From the Chief 's Desk
Hello Elgin! I’m excited to let everyone know about an event coming to Elgin next month. We are hosting the Elgin Police Department’s Toy Roundup Car Show! This will be free for the public, but donations will be greatly appreciated. The event will be on August 7th starting at 9am, Potter Park (2427 Main St. Elgin, SC 29045). All proceeds go to helping less fortunate families and children at Christmas. If you have a vehicle that you would like to enter in the show, please
contact Elgin Town Hall (803-438-2362) or just show up on the day of the event. It is $25 to enter your vehicle, we are giving away 30 trophies, including “Mayor’s Favorite”. There will also be Raffles, food trucks and fun for the kids. So everyone please come out and enjoy the show!
Chief Alan Anders
Elgin PD Incident Reports
Welfare Check / Assisting Another Agency: Officer was dispatched to a welfare check at Brentwood Drive home in the Town Limits of Elgin. Officer arrived and spoke with Complainant who stated that she could not get her sister Victim on the phone nor could Victim's son who lived in another state. Officer tried knocking on the doors front and back very loudly and there was no response. Officer then told the family on scene that there was no response and that the only other option would be to force entry. Complainant and the son told me to force entry and Officer requested the fire department for assistance. Once the fire department arrived we checked with neighbors for spare keys and checked for open windows and none were open. The fire department then busted the window on the back door but the dead bolt had a key lock from the inside. At this time Officer kicked the door open and we found Victim laying on the floor. Victim was laying in feces and urine and appeared to have been there for a few days but
was conscience. We immediately called for EMS and Officer informed the family of the situation. EMS arrived and transported Victim. The family members on scene stated they would go to Lowes to get some supplies to secure the door and that they would repair it. Officer then gave Complainant my card and told them if they needed anything to give us a call and cleared the scene. Possession of Marijuana: Officer was patrolling the area of Main Street in the Town Limits of Elgin when Officer noticed the Chrysler in front of me had a tag that was just taped to the car. When Officer ran the tag it came back to a Lincoln. Officer made a traffic stop on the vehicle and spoke with the driver Subject. While speaking with Subject, Officer could smell the strong odor of marijuana coming from the car. Subject did not have a license on her and she gave me her name and date of birth. When Officer ran it through dispatch they stated that her license was suspended. Officer asked her if anything illegal was in the car and she said no then stated she had
Hailey Mock Named USA Today Softball Player of the Year for SC
Congratulations to recent grad Hailey Mock who was announced as the USA Today Softball player of the year for the state of South Carolina. Mock will move on to the national USA TODAY High School Sports Awards show and will compete for top honors against other statewide winners across the country. Winners will be revealed during the awards show, hosted by Michael Strahan and Rob Gronkowski, premiering at 8 p.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 5, 2021. The national show can be watched on any smart device through the USA TODAY Sports Wire and News Wire Channels, available on Roku, Samsung, Amazon Fire and most smart TVs. Viewers may also stream the show on demand on the USA TODAY High School Sports Awards website or through YouTube. July 23, 2021
a marijuana joint. She then proceeded to hand me a prescription pill bottle that contained a marijuana joint and a smaller piece of marijuana. Officer searched the vehicle and found nothing further that was illegal. Officer issued Subject citations for possession of drug paraphernalia, DUS Insurance and no tag. Subject waited on the arrival of a licensed driver and Officer cleared the scene. Once Officer arrived back at the police department Officer weighed the marijuana and it weighed approximately one gram. Officer placed it into an evidence bag and placed it into the drug evidence drop box. Larceny, Vehicle Tag: On 07/12/2021, around 11:35 am, Victim reported that his license tag had been stolen off of his 2020 Yongfu moped while at Blaney Wings. Victim stated that he left the moped at Blaney Wings late Friday night (07/09/2021) and returned on Sunday morning (07/11/2021) to pick it up when Victim noticed that the tag was missing. Tag will be entered into NCIC. “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
5
Choir Camp Celebrates 21st Year
On July 16 and 17th, Choir Camp of SC was held for the 21st year. This year's camp was at Father's House Ministries. The theme was "Open Arts, Open Hearts". Watch for the 70 or so red camp shirts in the Elgin community, and many thanks to the Choir Camp sponsors for their help. Mostly, we thank God for provision, safety, and for the 8 children who gave their hearts to Jesus during our weekend camp. Also, many thanks to Father's House for allowing us a place to worship and praise our Heavenly Father collectively.
Get your event in The Elgin News! Call or text us at 803.513.5108
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
6
Camden Rotary Scholarships
Pictured above, from left: Camden Rotary Scholarship Committee Chair Lauren Reeder, Scholarship Committee Matt Irick, Hampton West, Katie Frazier, Camden Rotary Board Member Chip Hardy, and Club President Charlotte Rankin. The Camden Rotary Club recently awarded two $4,000 scholarships to Anna Katherine “Katie” Frazier and Hampton West of Camden High School. Katie will be attending The University of South Carolina where she will be majoring in Biology while Hampton will be attending Coastal Carolina and majoring in Business Finance. This is the first year The Camden Rotary Club has offered $4,000 scholarships to graduating seniors from Camden High School and North Central High School. Under the new scholarship program, recipients will receive $500 per semester for four years of their undergraduate program as long as they maintain a B average or better. July 23, 2021
LEHS To Host Demon Fest to Kickoff 50th Anniversary Celebrations
On June 12, the 50th class of Lugoff-Elgin High School graduates crossed the stage. To mark this momentous occasion, the graduates wore special red tassels. The celebration, however, is just getting started. Throughout the upcoming school year, LugoffElgin High School will host various events to honor former students and celebrate current ones to commemorate its 50th anniversary. “My biggest hope is that we give the community something to look forward to after all that we have been through since March of 2020,” Mr. Corey Wright, LEHS principal, said. “We seek to make a lasting connection between the school and the Lugoff-Elgin community.” The festivities will begin on Friday, Aug. 6 at a back-to-school event called “Demon Fest: Celebrating 50 Years.” During this family-friendly event, which will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., attendees will have the opportunity to participate in various activities, such as cornhole, face painting, inflatables, and more. “We are extremely excited to foster the connection between the school and the community,”
Wright said. “Our goal is to make sure that we can serve our students and give the LE family a school that they can be proud of.” At Demon Fest, arts programs will showcase the work of their talented students and fall athletes will be recognized. While admission is only $1, the event will include various activities that cost additional money. The concession stand will be open, food trucks will be available, and numerous items will be sold at booths hosted by LE clubs. After celebrating and supporting LE’s artists and athletes, the Demon Fest will conclude with a fireworks display. The event will be held at the stadium on the campus of LEHS, and attendees are asked to park and enter on the home side of the stadium. “We will continue the 50th celebration at the first home football game against Dreher High School by welcoming back all five decades of Lugoff-Elgin graduates,” Wright said. “We have a phenomenal committee that has planned several events throughout the course of the year. We look forward to carrying on the ‘Legacy of Excellence’.”
ACT Now Before The Rains Come Down
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
803.438.2195
39 Plaza drive lugoff
Call us for your next project!
Victory Sports Camp 2021
Lugoff First Baptist Church, along with partner churches Blaney Baptist, Harmony Baptist and Malvern Baptist, recently hosted the Victory Sports Camp at Blaney Elementary School. Over 100 kids from 1st thru 6th grades participated in this week of sports fun and fellowship. We deliver mason, fill sand, topsoil, sand clay and various types of rock.
Family-Owned & Operated Since 1999.
Life insurance can be lifechanging. Trey Webb, Agent
A healthier YOU starts at Elgin Pharmacy.
We have the products you need to look and feel your best. Talk to your pharmacist today about what products are right for you or visit MyGNP.com.
Life won’t always go as planned. That’s why there’s life insurance. It can help you protect your family’s future, no matter what happens. Call me today. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®
803.438.5735 10201 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29229
July 23, 2021
treywebbinsurance.com 803-788-9188
Monday-Friday, 9a-7p | Saturday 9a-2p | Closed Sunday
7
Car Show To Support No Family Hungry Blanketing Families, Inc. in partnership with Toys Round Up Father's House Ministries will again be offerSATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 2021 AT 9 AM
Elgin Police Department Toys Roundup & Caring Hands Foundation is having Our first Car Show! All Proceeds go to Elgin Toy Round UP! Visit the Toys Round Up and Caring Hands Facebook page for more details. Sponsors are Welcome! Entry Fee $25.00 Top 30 awarded Trophies. Best Of Show Best Car Best Truck Best Paint Best Interior Best Engine Best Muscle Car Best Original People Choice And More!! Food Vendors & Fun for the Kids!! 50/50 Drawing Raffle!!
PUBLIC NOTICE Bookkeeping Services - Payroll: The Town of Elgin is soliciting bids for Bookkeeping Services involving Payroll. The scope of tasks specifically required will involve the following functions: • Prepare/Submit Payroll-Direct Deposit Bi-Weekly and Monthly • Prepare/Submit Quarterly and Year-End Payroll Tax Returns/Reports • Prepare/Submit Monthly and Quarterly and Year-End Retirement Reports • Prepare/Submit W-2’s and 1099’s Annually It will be required that the accountant use the Town of Elgin’s Finance Module (Nicholson) as well as the Town’s Account Access for SCDOORWAY, SUETS and it’s First Citizen’s BOB Advantage to complete all tasks. This will be required for all staff of the Town of Elgin and the Elgin Police Department, which will include a total of (19) employees/staff/council. Interested parties please contact Elgin Town Hall at 803-438-2362 or email us at elgin.clerk@townofelginsc.com for additional information or if you have further questions. All applications are due no later than Monday, August 16, 2021 and can be emailed to our Clerk or mailed to the Town of Elgin, Post Office Box 277, Elgin, South Carolina 29045.
8
ing food at Elgin Town Hall on August 4th and August 18th at 2 pm. For more information, visit Blanketing Families on Facebook.
KC Library Online Events
Saturday, July 24 | 1:30 PM on Facebook Sloth Take-and-Make Fun: Everyone needs a pocket sloth. Pick up supplies at library doors starting July 16 and watch a video on Facebook to make it. Ages 12-17. Tuesday, July 27 | 11 AM on Zoom Board of Directors Update Tween Tales: The writing games we're going to The Arts Center of Kershaw County is pleased play will get you started writing your tale. At the to announce that four new members are joining its end of the summer, the library will professionally Board of Directors beginning with its 2021-2022 print and distribute all stories completed. Sign up Season. Having backgrounds in theatre manageby email: laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org ment, business, and civil society, the new board Tuesday, July 27 | 1 PM on Zoom members bring years of experience and leadership Teen Time Tales: Play these writing games with to support the programming, finances, community Sara Jane Arnett and the words will start flowing. outreach, and fundraising at the Center. The library will professionally print all submitted The mission of the Arts Center of Kershaw stories at the end of the summer for you and your County is to create an environment that promotes friends. Sign up by email laurend@kershawcounartistic and cultural experiences and provides sutylibrary.org. perior educational, instructional and entertainTuesday, July 27 | 6 PM on Google Hangouts ment opportunities that elevate and enrich the Write Club: Calling creative writers ages 18 and community for all residents of Kershaw County up! In Write Club, we will coax the writer out of and beyond. you with fun writing games where you can be as The new board members include: silly (or serious) as you like. To join, email hanGeorge Carruth, Teaching Artist nag@kershawcountylibrary.org Charlotte Hodge, Group Sales Representative Thursday, July 29 | 11 AM on Zoom for BlueCrossBlueShield of South Carolina Tween Tales: The writing games we're going to Chris Matney, Technical Service Manager and play will get you started writing your tale. At the President of the Kershaw County Theatre Guild end of the summer, the library will professionally Kathy Stitt, Retired from Tournament print and distribute all stories completed. Sign up Headquarters at Augusta National Golf Club by email: laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org Thursday, July 29 | 1 PM on Zoom Teen Time Tales: Play these writing games with Sara Jane Arnett and the words will start flowing. Audition Announement The Arts Center of Kershaw County will hold The library will professionally print all submitted auditions for the musical production of Nunsense stories at the end of the summer for you and your on Monday and Tuesday, July 26 and 27, in the friends. Sign up by email laurend@kershawcounWood Auditorium at the Arts Center of Kershaw tylibrary.org. Thursday, July 29 | 6:30 PM on Zoom County from 6:00 p.m - 8:30 p.m. This producYoga for EveryBody: Join Scott Freiberg for a tion will run in the Black Box Theatre at the Arts gentle, easy, and welcoming yoga class for all levCenter September 24 - 26 els. Cultivate your own relaxation with each pose Audition Details: Please prepare 16 bars of a piece of music that and each breath. To sign up, visit www.kershawshows off your voice with digital accompani- countylibrary.org/yoga-is-back-on-zoom ment. There should be no other singers on your background music. One of the nuns has an operatic voice and others are belters, so be prepared to show your stuff ! Your range will be tested, and you will also be Free Clothing For Those In Need asked to learn some harmony to see how well you can retain parts and how well you blend. Second Tuesday of the Month | 9 am - 12 pm You will also be asked to learn a short dance Second Thursday of the Month | 5 pm - 7 pm routine, so wear something that you feel comfort- Second Saturday of the Month | 1 pm - 4 pm able moving in. If you have dance experience, be sure to let us know on your audition form. 1400 Blaney Road - Blaney Baptist Church
Arts Center News
Vicki's Attic
July 23, 2021
Successful Navigation Of A Pandemic School Year
emotional progress we were able to see with students this year was Taking on a middle school principalship, at directly attributed to the a new level in a new school district, was the following: -returning the majorstart of my 2020-2021 school year. Being a principal for 15 years prior did not fully pre- ity of virtual students to pare me for what I would be tasked to do this in person learning -implementing Viryear. When I was hired, the district was finaltual Saturday Academy izing the learning platforms for the year. Kershaw County School District would provide (VSA) -providing tutors three learning platforms simultaneously from day one. Students would also be allowed to through Kershaw County School District change learning platforms every quarter. -providing peer menAfter looking back over last year, the most difficult part was scheduling Pictured above, from left: Wendy Hill, Assistant Prinevery student between learning options and moving students between op- toring/tutoring cipal Stover Middle School; Dr. Chantelle Baker, -implementing a distions every quarter. The majority of our students started in virtual learning Principal Stove Middle School; Charisse Flowers, platforms and as the year progressed the majority of our students returned to trict mentor program Assistant Principal Stover Middle School And providing on site face to face learning. There were many challenges in teaching students virtually. What was most surprising was seeing the assessment data, attendance, social and emotional support for students on campus through the Alpha Beand grades from the majority of virtual students versus our face to face stu- havioral Health Center of Kershaw County and the Department of Mental Health. dents. Our Stover team made this year a success story. Our teachers and staff With my superintendent’s support, we asked that all students failing in core content areas to come back to face to face instruction in quarter 3. The were the true heroes. A special thank you to our deputy superintendent, Tim immediate impact of this decision had immediate implication after seeing Hopkins, who made sure we had all the PPE items to keep all our staff and many of our virtual students grades and assessment data rise. We knew this students safe during face to face learning and our district superintendent, Dr. was a year like no other. As a school team, we implemented the following at Shane Robbins, who trusted our team to be creative and think outside of the Stover to help compensate for the loss of face to face instruction time begin- box while offering three learning options to our students. It is so easy to think about the struggles this year teaching during a panning in March of 2020: demic. However, we were blessed to celebrate the following successes at our - Dedicated daily time for interventions through EXACT PATH school: - Scheduled MAP conferences with students to set individual goals *The first school in the district to implement AVID (Advancement Via - Student Learning Objectives (SLOs/GBEs) written to support Individual Determination) increased student achievement * 100% Algebra One EOC (preliminary data) pass rate - quarterly benchmarks to assess student knowledge of the standards *Inaugural peer mentoring/district mentoring programs and areas to reteach. *Stover Archery Team- State Tournament finished 2nd for Bullseye The increases were incremental, but we worked as a team to continue to *Virtual Artist in Residence- Keith Tolen meet the needs of our students and not allow them to fall backwards even *1st inaugural Walk for Life Breast Cancer Walk (raised over $1,400) more. *School floats in Elgin Catfish Stomp and The Lights of Lugoff Parade Our school not only implemented academic support to assist with our students but provided support with the social and emotional learning of our (won Best Use of Lights Award and Best School)-Thank you Mr. Martin! * Yearbook won an All-State rating and Palmetto Award for best middle students. With all that occurred during the ending of the 2019-2020 school year and this past year, many of our students needed extended opportunities school yearbook. *Community Service projects to include: Tigers Take Time to Care, Wands to talk with school-based counselors and administration. Kershaw County School District also partnered with the Alpha Behavioral Health Center and for Wildlife, monetary donation for Food for the Soul Homeless Shelter and the Department of Mental Health to provide ongoing counseling sessions a basket of goodies donated to the local animal shelter. I know that that we will have successes and areas that will be challengfor students in need. As I told the staff at the beginning of the year, we needed to be flexible ing. However, I know this team is capable of meeting these challenges. I am in all aspects of teaching. This was not a normal year by any means, but the blessed to be a part of such a dynamic team of professionals. After this year, everything and anything is possible as we continue to fafailure of our students was not an option. The success of our students is and cilitate the mission of the school and Kershaw County School District: To will continue to be our number one priority. Overall, the academic, social, and educate all students for success. Go Tigers! By: Dr. Chantelle Baker Stover Middle School Principal
Above: Despite the many challenges to educating students during the Coronavirus pandemic, the Stover Middle School staff, led by Principal Dr. Chantelle Baker rose to the task. Thanks to the efforts of leaders like Dr. Baker at all our schools, as well as leaders in the school district office, support from parents and partnerships in the community, 2020 was a successful, though challenging year. July 23, 2021
9
Miss Camden, Miss Summer Camps at WES Camden Teen Crowned
Above: Miss Camden Alana Sweet, left, and Miss Camden Teen Alyson Goodwin, right, pose with Miss South Carolina Julia Herrin shortly after being crowned. Alana and Ayson are students at Camden High School. Photo courtesy Johnny Deal.
Above: A camper works on her stacking skills. This summer, there are three camps at Wateree: 1) A summer reading camp for the 4K students going up to 5K. 2) A summer reading camp for 3rd graders moving up to 4th grade. 3) A STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) camp for Kindergarten thru 2nd grade. Camps include Wateree kids, as well as kids from other West Wateree schools.
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 Follow Us
10
July 23, 2021
Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office Mark Your Calendars: National Night Out Set for Aug. 3rd
Mark your calendars for this year’s National Night Out: August 3, 2021 from 5pm to 8pm. We had a great time last year and we are looking forward to another great time this year. Bring your children and enjoy a family friendly event. Just like last year, we will start the event with a First Responders Parade with lights and sirens around Lugoff-Elgin Middle School and Annex Building parking lots. We will then assemble for a “show and tell” around some of the first responder vehicles and there will be indoor activities inside the rear of the Annex Building. Multiple law enforcement, EMS, fire
Sheriff Lee Boan
departments, etc. will be present. We created a Facebook event for details and updates. National Night Out enhances the relationship between citizens and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and citizens together under positive circumstances. We hope to see you there!!! Follow this link for more information about National Night Out: natw.org/about/
Update from SC State Senator Penry Gustafson
I was asked, “Where is God in all this?” by SC ELCA Bishop Rev. Dr. Herman Yoos in response to life’s obstacles. He was my pastor who baptized William, married Todd and I, and called me to share the dreadful news my brother had been killed. I’ve never known a person so filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit! As a focused leader with a strong faith, I consider this question during both bad times, like a pandemic, natural disaster that hits home, or when an important decision is pending. Divine Providence intertwined my life with Jy Nunley and Kalab Haven. That’s another way of saying our God loves and guides us, working all things for good. My mother’s favorite hymn was “Thine is the Glory,” and my eyes still water if I hear even the first line. As I grew up and conquered challenges, Mom would often proclaim, “To God be the Glory!” I pray for God’s presence and guidance daily, especially now that I represent over 100,000 great people in District 27. There is great responsibility and humility that coincides with leadership. Luke 12:48 states, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” Isn’t this requirement meant for us to focus on others and not ourselves? Brian Mays, Director of the Jackson Teen Center, invited me to visit the Kershaw County Boys and Girls Club on May 25, 2021. The week prior I had been informed that the SC Women’s Legislative Caucus was providing funds for me to give a scholarship to a young lady of my choice-she had to be a graduate and going to a state school. That’s it—no other criteria, so how to choose? The plan was simply to award the scholarship to the first female seen at the Boys and Girls Club who met the basic qualifications. JY NUNLEY was one of the “superstars” wearing a Coker University sweatshirt, so I asked about her plans. Lo and behold, yes, she is going to Coker, and has recently been named Boys and Girls Club’s “Youth of the Year” for South Carolina. What an achievement! I discreetly asked for us to speak in the hall. What a thrill to help someone so deserving! She July 23, 2021
was grateful and dazed by the news. Jy is a dedicated warrior of success, overcoming homelessness who never lost focus on academics and work. My exposure to the needy and homeless through Food for the Soul solidified this choice. This Camden High School graduate is an example of grit and grace. Jy Nunley has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship by her senator, the newest member of the Women’s Legislative Caucus. This was not luck or karma; God led me to her through His Divine Providence. Then there’s Kalab Haven, a recent graduate and star athlete of North Central High School. A local article caught my eye, since he received an athletic scholarship from my alma mater, Newberry College (Class of 1992). I sent him a personalized congratulatory letter, including the article. As graduations drew closer, each graduate received a personal letter signed by yours truly (over 1,000)! Kalab sent me a note to thank me for his letter, so I called him to thank him for his note! He told me about his journey behind and challenges ahead. Kalab confided he needed additional financial support. Scholarships cover school but not insurance, books, gas, etc. Knowing studying and practice will fill his calendar, we know he won’t be able to work as he had for years. He was brave and humble enough to ask me for help. As a mother of three college-aged children, I felt Suzy Orman come out of me. He moved quickly to provide a resume, budget, and list of expenses and patiently waited to hear back from me. Serving as a fulltime legislator, my own schedule was tighter than a tick. If I could, I would assist every high school graduate! My Senate salary is $10,400/year plus per diem per session day worked. Another $1,000 monthly is given directly to legislators for in district expenses. (There is no legal requirement for accountability for this specific money). On June 13, 2021, Kalab honored me with an invitation to his family graduation celebration. With a scrapbook I made from my freshman year at Newberry College and a personal $1,000 check, I arrived to present his scholarship. What an af-
Above Top: Sen. Penry Gustafson visited the Jackson Teen Center to present Jy Nunley the $1000 scholarship from the SC Legislative Women’s Caucus. Above Bottom: Sen. Gustafson with recent NCHS graduate Kalab Haven, who will attend Newberry College on an athletic scholarship this fall. ternoon of swapping stories and advice (politician or not, I am famous for my unsolicited advice)! After he described a business plan he formulated in an economics class, he popped up to give me one of the t-shirts sold. With a strong will and determination, Kalab is going to be a success, for he, too, displays grit and grace. Ultimately, Jy Nunley and Kalab Haven were chosen in unique ways to receive $1,000 scholarships. “To God I give the glory!” Congratulations to ALL who graduated, and let’s pray for safety, happiness, and much success. AND if you are 18, register to vote!
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
• • • • • • • • • • •
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
Hurt On The Job Other Services • Wills • Probate Administration • Durable Power of Attorney • Living Wills • Healthcare Power of Attorney
512 Rutledge Street, Camden, SC dncannon@bellsouth.net
$
35 Valid thru 8/31/21
Offer is exclusive to readers of The Elgin News.
803.736.4777 | genovakarate1@gmail.com