Volume 16, No. 4A
“A Companion for People who Live, Work, & Play in Elgin, Lugoff, Camden and Northeast Columbia”
April 10, 2020
Citizens Gather To Cover Hospital Workers In Prayer
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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! 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
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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, gender, religion, culture, sexual orientation or race. • Poor taste. • Endorsements for or complaints about individually named commercial products or services. • Personal tributes, attacks or thank you’s. 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
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Fred Davidson, Sales Manager (803) 466-4604
The regular monthly meeting of the Elgin Town Council was held on Tuesday, April 7th at 6:00 pm at the Elgin Town Hall. Due to the current public health emergency related to COVID-19, Mayor Emmons, Clerk Ansley Champe and Chief Brown were on site at Town Hall and Councilman Hanley, Councilwoman Eyers, Councilwoman Sloan, Councilman Smith, Attorney John Wells and Judge James participated through the ZOOM Software. The Invocation was given by Mayor Emmons and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, which was led by Councilman Hanley. The first order of business was to approve an Ordinance Providing Emergency Procedures for Public Meetings of the Town of Elgin During the Continuance of the Coronavirus Epidemic. After some discussion and clarification from Attorney John Wells, Council approved the Ordinance in addition to an amendment to include Section 6 in regards to public access to Town Hall. A copy of the Ordinance will be available to the public on the town’s website (www.townofelginsc.com). Next item on the agenda was the approval of the minutes from the Regular Meeting held on Tuesday, March 3rd. As stated in the Emergency Ordinance, with respect to any electronic meeting, any public comment periods provided for by local ordinance, resolution, policy, or bylaws are hereby suspended. Members of the public may submit written public comments, which shall be distributed to the members of the Governing Body. We also allowed the opportunity for such comments during our live-stream segment of the meeting as well. There were no New Business License Applications in March 2020, no Charity Permit Requests, no Complaints and no Old Business. As always, we welcome new businesses to our community and encourage you to visit them and Think Elgin First. Also, 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. In New Business, Chief Brown congratulated Elgin Police Department’s Administrative Assistant, Angie Garrett for completing the required courses and becoming a Level 3 Certified Officer. He also presented Council with a Mutual Aid Agreement between the Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office and the Elgin Police Department, which was approved. In Council Briefings, Councilwoman Sloan had no report, Councilwoman Eyers had no report, and Councilman Smith had no report. Councilman Hanley expressed his appreciation to those on the frontline during the pandemic as they are caring for those who are sick, members of law enforcement, as well as those working in the supply chain such as the truckers, grocery stores, pharmacies and those working to provide data to keep the public updated during these uncertain time. Mayor Emmons thanked the staff at Town Hall, members of the Elgin Police Department and Council for working to continue to serve the Elgin Community during the COVID-19 Pandemic. She also expressed appreciation to the United Way Mobile Nutrition Center, Blanketing Families, Inc. and local church volunteers for working and providing the drive-up food distributions that are taking place at Town Hall for our surrounding community. Elgin Attorney, John Wells, wanted to make sure the public defender’s office payment was processedwe are currently holding the check at Town Hall for pick-up per their instructions in an email. He also instructed Mayor Emmons to sign the Emergency Ordinance and to execute it immediately. He discussed plans for the May 2020 meeting and that if the pandemic has not improved; the Emergency Ordinance will permit that meeting to be held in the same format as this meeting. Since there was no further business, the meeting adjourned. Our next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2020 at 6:00. I encourage everyone to make an effort 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. We also now broadcast our meetings live on the Town of Elgin Facebook Page. If I can ever be of assistance, 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 April 10, 2020
They’re moms and dads. Brothers and sisters. Friends and neighbors. HEROES.
As we continue in the ďŹ ght against COVID-19, we honor all of our providers and employees working hard to ensure a safe place of care and a healthier community for all of us. Some moments need heroes. To our heroes, we say thank you.
#ThankAHealthcareHero
KershawHealth.org April 10, 2020
3
Cabin Fever Thoughts
food” around their house. My problem is the exact opposite. My shopper has stocked our kitchen with fruits and vegetables and all his snacks that don’t appeal to me. The other night I had a brief battle with my blender while I admit I have sometimes put off trying to make me a healthy protein shake. Suddenly the blender wouldn’t assignments I was not eager to complete, blend; I hit another button. And the fruit flew one way and the liquid flew and I have also spent hours in a labor of love the other! Picture this: With strawberries in my hair I was slip, sliding around writing important essays… my 1965 Class trying to clean up my mess. Day speech, letters to friends overseas during This little “incident” prompted me to share with you how I am surviving the heart breaking Vietnam Era, and recently the Quarantine of 2020 with my ROMEO (Retired Old Man Eating Out) eulogies for dear friends who left us too soon. Yes, my husband is having “cabin fever” from missing his breakfast club every The words always flowed on the paper, but morning. They would meet and solve the problems in their world between 8 this article I have delayed hoping for a return and 10. I am a sleepy head, and Billy is an early riser. Now he wakes me up to the way we were before we heard those banging around in the kitchen fixing his own breakfast. I remember now why ugly terms ‘pandemic’ and ‘corona virus’. I don’t like to cook! I never enjoyed the clean up! The first time I heard the word ‘pandemic’ was when I was a seven years I will never take a hug or a one on one face to face conversation for granted old. I asked my daddy why he didn’t have a father. He gently explained to me again. Through the magic of technology, we can connect to others in a way our how the ‘pandemic’ of 1918, the Spanish Flu, had caused the deaths of over grandparents never could in 1918. Be inventive. Be creative! I have used these 50 million people worldwide, and my grandfather was one of the victims. I days of isolation to journal and reach out to others. I have found comfort in asked my daddy since he was only an infant if he or my Nanny had had the not being “so rushed” as our daily lives use to be. I will save my thoughts on flu. He explained that even as widespread as it was, and how it devastated how our lives have changed for my next article (maybe). I wanted to make every family in our town of Bishopville, neither he nor my grandmother you smile today and maybe laugh. became ill. I hope I inherited their genes. I know there were a lot of smiles and laughs as the overworked and How are you and your family/ friends following the guidelines to flatten underpaid teachers organized a parade through our community's the curve? We all have a new term too “social distancing”- stay at least six neighborhoods to wave and smile at their students. What a highlight and feet away. We are dependent on various media to inform us with the latest delightful surprise! Way to go! updates and how we can now seek medical advice through tele visits with a I want to thank our Pastors who have connected with their congregations doctor. by drive-ins at church and through the internet. This past Sunday, we watched During the past 30 days of “house arrest” by my children/ grands, news four services in our home. Now more than ever we need our Heavenly Father junkie that I am, I have really been on “news overload.” My advice to you and His son Jesus. when viewing news reports is to consider the source. Unplug often to clear Thank you to all our leaders who have had to make decisions that will your thoughts. Take deep breaths and relax your shoulders. Walk around even affect lives forever. if it is only in your house. How can we ever say thank you to our first responders, law enforcement, The silly questions we use to ask: "Who would you want to be stranded on the scientists, those in the medical fields, (how do you do it? Day in and a deserted island with" and "what would you take with you" takes on a new out!), all the vital businesses and workers we take for granted that keep our perspective in our upside down world. daily world real. Non-essential workers and those who are no longer working I now understand what the term “cabin fever” means. In the 1600’s, when our prayers are with you too! the early settlers crossed the Atlantic Ocean to come to America in a ship, To our tired and over worked Moms and Dads with new responsibilities: it was a journey of six to fourteen weeks of cabin confinement, and we think home schooling. You will make it through these days and the memories made “our cabin fever” is difficult! and the memories lost will forever make a difference in your families’ lives. My husband Billy tells me he should be the one to make “the sacrifice” to Blessings for all I pray during this Easter Season. Protect those you love! leave the house and shop for groceries, prescriptions, etc. I read on Facebook Protect your own health! Stay strong! where many of my friends have complained about having too much “junk Love you all! By: Liz Simon Staff Writer
WW Rotary Announces Scholarship Winners
The West Wateree-Lugoff Rotary Club has given scholarships to Lugoff Elgin Seniors for over thirty (30) years. The Scholarship Selection Committee considers excellence in academics, participation in extracurricular activities, and financial need in its guidelines for making the awards. This year we had thirty three (33) students from Lugoff-Elgin High School apply for the Scholarships. We were able to award Ten (10) students $3000 Scholarships. The money was raised in the 2019 Annual Wild Game Dinner and Auction. Funds raised from the 2020 Event will be awarded in 2021. The Wild Game Dinner and Auction is hosted jointly with the West Wateree-Lugoff Rotary Club and the Camden Rotary Club. The Camden Rotary Club Scholarship recipients will be announced at a later date.
Congratulations to this year's scholarship winners: Natalia Arriaga (Eduardo and Rebecca Arriaga) Brooke Baker (Brian and Tina Baker) Erin Catoe (William and Kathryn Catoe) Colby Lane Christofaro (Thomas R and Lindsey H Christofaro) Randy Dinkins (Randolph and Jessica Dinkins) Gracyn Duncan ( James Duncan and Rozalynd Cawood) Sierra Kirkland (Rico Kirkland and Rhodesia Shepard) Taylor LeGrand ( Jason and Molly LeGrand) Mackenzie Kaitlyn McGaha (Tyler McGaha and Stacy Boan) Kaleigh Robinson ( Jeffrey and Lori Robinson)
Find us on Facebook! @theelginnews 4
April 10, 2020
From The Chief ’s Desk...
A feel good story about an event my daughter witnessed at a local store last week, she watched as a lady purchased every coat hanger in the store and as the lady was paying for it my daughter’s curiosity got the best of her and she had to ask the lady about purchasing so many coat hangers. Turns out the lady had an elderly neighbor that she went over to help do her laundry. Her neighbor did not have a clothes dryer so the good Samaritan was washing the clothes and using the coat hangers to dry them on the back porch where her elderly friend could get to them after they dried. Pretty good stuff here and really what small town neighborhoods should strive for. Now that the CDC has requested all of us to wear masks when we go out to purchase the necessities I see a lot of citizens complying which is excellent. What isn’t excellent is the fact that we now see discarded gloves and masks in our roadways and parking lots. This is not only illegal but really dangerous for the working people who have to clean up. I have instructed my Officers that if they observe anyone doing this they are to charge them under the littering law which carries a minimum of a $200 fine and can include time in jail. The best part of the littering law is if
convicted you may have to clean up the streets and parking lots while performing community service in front of your neighbors and friends. Come on folks you care enough to take the precautions please put a zip lock bag in your pocketbook or car and dispose of you gloves Chief Harold Brown and masks as you should. As everyone probably knows by now the Governor has issued a stay at home or work order for our entire state. This does not mean you cannot get your groceries or any of your essential needs, it does mean you may need to plan on allowing more time as the stores can only allow so many in at a time. Yes, if your plumbing goes bad you can get pipe and fittings from the hardware store, again limited number of people allowed in. As I read the Governor’s order it struck me that we are required to do what we should have been doing all along which is simply use common sense. We need to stop this enemy now before more misery and loss of life occurs, PLEASE keep your distance!
MCCU Makes Award-Winning Financial Literacy Program Free for Local Classrooms
Schools are designed to teach today’s youth the basics: reading, writing, arithmetic, science, and history. But there’s one subject that most students aren’t being taught in the classroom: financial literacy. From learning how to create a budget and understanding how and why you should save money to navigating credit and keeping your identity safe, introducing financial literacy early equips the next generation to make smart choices when it comes to financial security. That’s why Mid Carolina Credit Union (MCCU) has partnered with Banzai, an award-winning financial literacy program. Since its inception in 2010, Banzai has become the largest program of its kind. More than 50,000 teachers in all 50 states use the program, which is aligned to state curriculum requirements. Tina Smith with MCCU says “We saw a need in the community for financial literacy in schools that reflected the products in modern banking. And we decided to move forward with financing Banzai’s curriculum to high schools in both Kershaw County and Blythewood.” “More than ever, it’s important that kids develop sound financial skills to prepare them for the realworld, and we’re doing something about it.”
MCCU has offered time, money, industry experience, and a variety of credit union resources to help local schools teach personal finance in the classroom. Since the launch of the program in May of 2019, almost 500 have gone through the program. Students using the program are exposed to reallife scenarios where they learn to pay bills and balance a budget — but it’s not always easy. Students must learn to manage unexpected expenses such as parking tickets, interest charges and overdraft fees. The educational program also introduces students to auto loans, bank statements, entertainment costs, savings and more. Kershaw County School District Superintendent Dr. Shane Robbins said, "This is another example of the great partnership that Mid Carolina Credit Union has with our schools. We greatly appreciate their making these lessons available. I am glad to see our students having this additional opportunity to learn about financial literacy, which will benefit them throughout their lives." Teachers interested in using the Banzai program can visit midcarolinacu. teachbanzai.com or call 888-8-BANZAI. A free direct course for kids, teens and adults is also available to the public on Mid Carolina’s website at midcarolinacu.com.
LE Middle Teacher Named STEM Finalist
Lugoff-Elgin Middle School (LEMS) STEAM/Project Lead the Way teacher Tracy Elmore has been selected as one of five regional finalists for SC Future Minds’ SC STEM Educator of the Year. The STEM Educator of the Year award was created to honor teachers who are making a significant difference in the lives of students across the state by providing an excellent curriculum, encouraging lifelong learning, and inspiring a passion for STEM beyond the classroom and into the future. “Tracy continues to look for new and innovative ways to engage her students in meaningful and relevant instruction that is also timely given the speed with which we see technology change,” said LEMS Principal Gene Cameron. “Her energy is contagious and her focus is always on the students April 10, 2020
and what she can do to engage them on a daily basis.” SC Future Minds received hundreds of nominations for the award. Finalists were selected by a panel of judges from leading STEM companies including Michelin, BMW, Google, Milliken and Ranger Aerospace as well as STEM education specialists. Elmore is part of the Kershaw County STEAM Council, a group of school and community leaders who are creating a common vision and mission for the students of Kershaw County to have access to STEAM education that will prepare them for career and leadership opportunities in the community. The second year for the honor, the STEM Educator of the Year will be announced later this spring.
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Getting Kershaw County Working Again
with it. There are no promises of an easy road. April will be the tough month. Brutal, even; and as the drum beat of "breaking" news continues, we focus instead on doing what we can. We are making a difference; and we buy time Easter reminds us of our total reliance on the for Kershaw Health, and the FDA and Federal and State and County support Creator and on one another. We are bonded to be felt....everywhere, at first subtle and small, but steady and reliable. I have begun my talks in the Army and Kershaw County with the phrase together in the good times and now more so in – “It’s a great day!” As we close week four of COVID-19 in Kershaw this trial. Kershaw County shares a bond: like our County, such a signal of optimism has taken on a new meaning as I have veterans who served this County and this watched our citizens and businesses show forth grit and competence. When Country on outposts & ships all over the Kershaw County is met with adversity, we have never accepted a set-back. world, but now face an even tougher fight, We have always risen to the challenge in Tornadoes, Floods, and Hurricanes right here at home. And a fight it is, a struggle – adapting, adjusting, and standing strong and united. “Stronger Together, without regard for uniforms or age or gender Kershaw Strong” in our schools, government bodies, non-profits, businesses, or station.... waged among the population, and with our wonderful Hospital and churches, working as one to do our part to fight this unseen enemy. Thank you. As we join with the School District to change our way of and EMS and Nurses and First Responders and County staffs on the front educating our children. As Industry shifts our work environments to home. lines. They all say to us: “The price of even a single soul is too high.” Indeed! As Moms and Dads and grandparents and the kids make the necessary Yet, such loss would be compounded if the citizens were to despair and not lifestyle changes to keep ourselves and our families healthy. Thank you for adjusting your lives without complaint. seize the moment to protect, and, yes, even to see it through to thrive again. Thank you for being a part of the solution and not the problem. The fallen and the stricken deserve not only honor but also our commitment And thank you for working with us to find solutions for local businesses and resolve. Likewise, our businesses and agencies are looking for the path and the unemployed. forward, too, having suffered bleak sales and closed doors. Yes, it is a great day in Kershaw County because we are “KC Strong.” I will not be a Polly-Anna, or serve up mush to an already hard-pressed As the sign in on Camden’s Little Theatre says, “Stay Healthy. We’ll be population: our only way out is THROUGH, through the guidance we have back soon.” followed now for over 4 weeks: sanitation, keeping distance and all that goes By: Julian Burns, KC Council Chairman
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Adapt, Adjust and Overcome Local Business Works To Support Our Healthcare Heroes
Covid-19 has drastically changed the day-to-day life for Kershaw County business owners. Businesses have been forced to adapt and adjust how they operate to stay afloat during this difficult time. However, in times of difficulty, helpers emerge. Many businesses across the country, and also here in Kershaw County, have adapted their business models to not only survive the economic difficulties brought on by the virus, but also to help those in need. One such business is Southern Restyle operated out of Camden by owner Becky Reckelhoff. Southern Restyle is an eclectic mix of new and vintage decor and home items, operating from their shop off of Black River Road in Camden. Prior to the outbreak, Reckelhoff spent her time repurposing and creating items for the shop. As the virus began to grip the world, Reckelhoff begain to wonder how she could help. "In mid-March, I began with making masks for my family. I saw a video showing a basic pattern, and it seemed fairly straightforward. I am not a seamstress by trade, however I knew I could do it. Once I had a few done, I posted on the Southern Restyle Instagram and Facebook pages to see if there was interest. Almost immediately I began getting messages," says Reckelhoff. As healthcare workers began messaging her with concerns over lack of PPE items, Reckelhoff decided something had to be done. "I decided to sell masks to my customers," says Reckelhoff. "They could then donate toward providing even more free masks for healthcare workers." The total number of masks ordered in the last three weeks is over 150. So far, there have been over 50 masks donated to healthcare workers here in South Carolina, as well as in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia. While this time is trying, Reckelhoff chooses to focus on the positives. "To say this has been a difficult road for all of us is a huge understatement. The news is constantly changing. There are so many people focused on what’s going wrong," says Reckelhoff. "I want to focus on what is going right." For more info on Southern Restyle, visit them online at southernrestyle.com or by finding them on Facebook or Above: Reckelhoff puts the finishing touches Instagram. on a fabric PPE mask. April 10, 2020
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Get Up to $5,000 NOW Prior Kershaw County School District rolling into their spring break this week, KCSD staff worked hard to make sure meals were provided to those students who needed it. Ten meals per student were bagged and picked up from one of four sites across the county. Pictured above, KCSD staff organizes filled bags at Blaney Elementary School. Meal delivery & pick-up will resume on April 13. Also, the school district greatly appreciates the following businesses who donated bags: Food Lion of Elgin, IGA of Elgin, Piggly Wiggly of Camden, and Sonic of Lugoff. If you have questions regarding meal deliveries during the school closures, call one of the following numbers: Camden Area Bus Office - 425-8943 Elgin Area Bus Office - 438-2135 Lugoff Area Bus Office - 438-8017 North Central Area Bus Office - 425-8976 OR 424-2849
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Citizens Gather at KershawHealth To Pray For Hospital Workers, Virus Victims When Camden native and Karesh TLC HR Manager Begee Mays saw a video on Facebook where people gathered to pray for hospital workers and staff, she was inspired to do the same thing here in Kershaw County. After thinking on it and praying over the idea, she decided to go for it. "God shoved me," says Mays. With that little shove from God, Mays began reaching out to local pastors and KershawHealth administrators to coordinate the prayer meeting, which was held on March 29th. People arrived a little before sunset to cover doctors, nurses, hospital staff and virus victims with prayers. "Prayer was the main reason it was planned," says Mays. "Prayer for the staff and the people fighting for their lives." The hundreds of people who came to the prayer meeting, remained in their cars - following recommended social distancing guidelines. The constant flash of parking lights glowed in the sky, however, as those gathered prayed together. Mays said she felt the event gave people a way to channel their stress related to the virus. "It was very spiritual, very moving," sayd Mays. "People have had all kinds of emotions about this, and it gave people such an emotional release." Mays says that after the event, many people thanked her for coordinating the meeting, but Mays gives credit to God. "It was God's show," says Mays. April 10, 2020
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Drive By Birthday Covid-19 Testing Livy Barton is having a drive by and wave party April 15th from 10 am-12 pm. Due to Covid-19, Livy's family decided a traditional birthday was out of the question, but we still want to show her that her friends and family love and support her even if we can not be together right now. Livy is turning 4 on April 15th. She attends Dobys Mill elementary Special Education 3k classes and all of her teachers, classmates, friends, and family members have been invited. Anyone who would like to drive by and wave is welcome! Join the fun: April 15th ・ 10 am - 12 pm 2116 Heath Pond Road, Elgin
On March 23, Sandhills Medical launched a COVID-19 drive-thru testing site in Camden, in response to the community spread reported in Kershaw County. Since inception, 263 test have been given and 227 results have been reported, with 25 positives (as of end of 4/7). One of the primary ways to prevent more community spread, is for people who have been exposed, and especially those with symptoms, to get tested and isolate themselves until those results are attained. Anyone who needs to get tested can call 877-529-4339, MondayFriday from 8am-5pm, and get screened by phone for an appointment. An appointment is required in order to get tested. Sandhills Medical Foundation is also announcing a grant award in the amount of $61,383 from HRSA for support in preventing, preparing for, and responding to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), as outlined in the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act. Sandhills Medical Foundation, Inc. is a community health center covering the counties of Chesterfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, and Sumter with quality primary healthcare. The mission of Sandhills Medical Foundation is to be responsive to community healthcare needs by providing quality, comprehensive, and cost effective healthcare.
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KC Coronavirus Hotline: 803.425.7242 April 10, 2020
LEHS Student Author Series
By: Jenny Proctor, LEHS Journalism Teacher
From the first week in Journalism 1, I teach my students that their job as a journalist is to tell stories, founded on truth, of course. They also begin learning from that very first week that every single person has a story to tell and that while those stories may not change the world, they can change small aspects of how we all view one another. Just as every single person has a story to tell, every single community member is currently being impacted by Covid-19, so immediately after they finished the yearbook on March 20, my yearbook students began finding stories to tell. Although they had the challenge of communicating only via phone conversations or through electronic methods, my students found some
incredible stories to tell. As my amazing students began submitting their ideas, my excitement for what they were able to do started to grow. Here they are as high school students covering a global pandemic - an event that will find its way into history books and will be referred to for generations to come. Then I realized we had no way of sharing these print stories with our school audience since we are currently not in school. However, I called Cate, the editor of the Elgin News, and asked if she would be willing to partner with us to share these stories. Cate graciously agreed, so for the next few issues, you will be able to read stories about your neighbors and how their lives are changing because of Covid-19. Our hope is that these stories will help you realize you are not alone and that we are truly all in this situation together.
A Setback for A Comeback
each week [and now cannot] have anyone in the studio,” Elliott said. Although the studio closure has resulted in unemployment for the owner, Small business owners all have known the chal- it also affected the other eight employees along with the students. lenges that come with opening a new business. For “It affects the students in multiple ways because they don’t get that social Britton Elliott, owner and director at Palmetto interaction with their dance friends but the biggest effect comes in terms Dance Center on White Pond Road, start up costs, of their endurance, muscle memory, and flexibility,” Elliot said. “I encourpersonal income and advertising were all consid- age my dancers to do some type of cardio and stretching activity every day ered, but never the idea that a pandemic would while we are apart, but it is really easy for them to cheat or skip when I am force her to shut her doors. not there to encourage them like [I do in] a classroom setting.“ After she founded it in 2008, Elliott immediUsually Britton’s typical day involves heading to the studio in the mornately relied on the studio as her sole income, relying on a rush of advertise- ing, making plans, and then starting classes at around four, but the closure ments and word of mouth to attract business. She has continued to depend has caused an obvious change in her schedule. on the studio as her only source of income, “I’m working all day every day,” Elliott even now as a single mom. said. “I record videos in the morning hours, She has been mostly successful until re I am determined to not let Palmetto do virtual classes in the afternoon and evecently when the government began restrictning, and then send updates and emails late Dance Center be one of those businesses that at night.” ing the number of people together in a particular space due to Covid-19. After the has to close its doors forever. I may struggle Keeping her students in mind, Elliott local school closings, it was just a week later for a little while, but I am planning on a BIG keeps faith that her students will be able to when Elliott felt she had to close her doors. - PDC Owner Britton Elliot return to class before long. comeback." “I am a rule follower,” Elliott said. “Push“I am determined to not let Palmetto ing the boundaries of guidelines would only Dance Center be one of those businesses put my dancers and families at risk and their health and safety is my big- that has to close its doors forever,” Elliott said. “I may struggle for a little gest concern. It may hurt me for a few months, but knowing my dancers while, but I am planning on a BIG comeback.” are safe gives me the reassurance that they will all be back when we are Elliott believes dance is a way of life for her dancers and when this crisis allowed to open back up.” is over, they will still need it as a way to express themselves and interact Elliott recognized the health concerns of having a studio full of students with others. and parents and has had to adjust to the idea of not having classes. “I have promised my kids I will be here and I won’t let the thought of “The shut down has caused major adjustments to the Dance Studio failure get in the way, even though it is extremely scary at the moment,” world as I [usually have] over 300 kids coming in and out of the studio Elliott said. By: Mackenzie McGaha, LEHS Student Writer
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United Way of KC Covid-19 Response Fund
To support the rapidly escalating needs of Kershaw County residents the United Way of Kershaw County has launched a COVID-19 Response Fund. This fund will help Kershaw County residents meet basic needs including food, shelter and rent/utility assistance due to lost wages related to COVID19. Since the start of the fund, grants have been secured from Central Carolina Community Foundation and South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to directly support UWKC’s health initiative, the Mobile Nutrition Center. At the onset of the Coronavirus Crisis the MNC began operating at a higher level by doubling food distributions and setting up pop up distribuApril 10, 2020
tions when supply allowed. On average the MNC distributes 13,500 pounds of food each month, during the month of March the MNC distributed over 17,000 pounds of food. New Day Transitional Housing office is open and assisting individuals and families facing homelessness. For questions regarding services and assistance available call UWKC at 803-432-0951 or visit www.UWKC.net. Donations of non-perishables and personal items are urgently needed and can be brought to the UWKC office, 110 E Dekalb Street Camden, SC from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday – Friday. Donations to the COVID-19 Response Fund can be made at www. UWKC.net or mailed to P.O. Box 737 Camden, SC 29021.
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LEHS Seniors Honored With Banner Display
What began as a way to honor Lugoff Elgin student athletes who missed out on their senior spring sports season, has evolved into a celebration of all LEHS seniors who will miss many milestones due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Initially, band parent Rhonda Rhodes reached out to LEHS Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Matt Campbell, with an idea to move some student athlete and band student banners from their current locations out to Highway 1 for more visibility. With such a positive response, senior banners for all other sports out were also relocated towards the road, and that snowballed into the idea of creating a senior wall honoring ALL seniors. As the plan for the banner wall evolved, Campbell and his wife Jeanene, reached out to Carolina Sports, Inc. who printed the athlete banners. Seniors who did not participate in a sport or extra-curricular activity would need to have a banner or yard sign created. "Carolina Sports Inc. has been amazing getting this going," says Jeanene Campbell. "They have created a special page for us on their website, so people can order online without having to leave their homes." Yard Signs cost about $20 each, and Jeanene says many people have volunteered to cover the cost of a sign if the student could not otherwise afford one. Full color banners are also available for purchase from Carolina Sports. This effort is not a school event, but is being coordinated by volunteers with the full support of the administrators and staff at LEHS. Matt and Jeanene Campbell spearheaded this effort, with much assistance from Mark and Yvonne Houde with Carolina Sports; Band Parent, Rhonda Rhodes; and LEHS teacher Jenny Proctor who acquired permission to use yearbook photos. Banners and signs will be removed after graduation, which will be held on either May 30th or June 27th - depending on how the virus progresses.
Camden Elementary "Teacher Wave Parade"
Since school closures have separated students and teachers since mid-March, many schools across the county have coordinated a "Wave Parade" as a way for teachers to reconnect with their students - at an appropriate social distance, of course. On March 26th, Camden Elementary staff traveled around communities to wave at students who lined the streets with homemade signs and banners. Many thanks to Johnny Deal and BowTie Photography for the photos.
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Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office
Stay Home Order: Focus on the Intent
Most of us knew the day was coming for a South Carolina “Stay Home” order. The order officially went into effect on Tuesday (4/7/20) at 5pm. I have heard from both sides on this topic. One side wanted the order and feels it should have been put in place weeks ago. The other side feels it could be a violation of our Constitutional rights. As your sheriff, I am very concerned about anything that may violate Constitutional rights. Our governor has made it very clear that our rights greatly concern him. Our rights are part of the reason it took this long for his order to be issued. Our governor made his decision with the input of several legal and medical professionals. He is very careful not to overstep his powers. I need everyone to focus on the INTENT of this stay-home order. Please
don't dig into the wording in efforts to get around the intent. The intent of this order is NOT to violate anyone’s rights. The intent of this order is to save lives. It is just that simple. Our governor had a lot to consider before implementing this order. He had to Sheriff Lee Boan consider our public safety, the Constitution, and our state’s economy. His decision was not made without carefully considering all of these important issues. His intent is to save lives. Stay focused on the intent of the order. I need your help. Stay home. Save lives.
City of Camden Staff Available to Assist Small Businesses Applying For SBA Disaster Loans
The City of Camden has announced it will make staff available to assist business owners as they apply for the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Loan Advances. This is in response to the recently passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act stimulus package, which includes small business relief in the form of Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Loan Advances, as well as other aid programs. The Small Business Administration has indicated that funds will be made available within three days of a successful application. More information about federal relief and assistance to small businesses can be found at www.sba.gov/coronavirus. City staff will provide assistance to business owners primarily by phone or via web meetings, but will also be available for one-on-one meetings, by appointment only, at the Robert Mills Courthouse, 607 Broad Street. To make an appointment, business owners are encouraged to call the Robert Mills Courthouse at 803-432-2557 or call Katharine Spadacenta, Main Street Program Manager at 803-549-5648 or email at kspadacenta@camdensc.org to be connected to a City staff member for assistance.
The City continues to strongly request that employees for all businesses, as applicable, transition to a remote work model, or work from home, and that no social gatherings be held anywhere in the City until further notice. City Council and Mayor Alfred Mae Drakeford’s state of emergency declaration and nightly curfew from 10 pm to 5 am also remains in effect until further notice. Governor Henry McMaster has ordered all nonessential businesses in the state to close for 15 days, beginning at 5:00 pm Wednesday, April 1st. According to the governor’s office, if a business has a question as to whether they qualify as essential, business representatives can call 803-734-2873 or send an email to covid19sc@sccommerce.com. City staff will continue to monitor the COVID-19 virus and make operational decisions as necessary. The Kershaw County government has activated a COVID-19 hotline. The public is encouraged to call the COVID19 hotline at 803-425-7242 and monitor information and updates at SC DHEC’s website www.scdhec.gov/covid19 or the Kershaw County website www.kershaw.sc.gov/coronavirus.
Gustafson Abandons House Bid To Run Against Sheheen
Republican Penry Gustafson, a former small business owner and community leader, officially filed for State Senate District 27, currently held by Vincent Sheheen. Since his election to the State Senate in 2004, Sheheen has run unopposed. Vincent Sheheen ran for Governor in 2010 and 2014 losing to Nikki Haley each time. Penry said the decision to run is about giving voters the choice of a new conservative vision that better reflects the values of Senate District 27. “We deserve a chance to vote for a new conservative vision that best represents our small town and rural values, supports our Governor and our President, and stands up to radical liberalism of today's Democrat party. Year after year we have not been able to hold Senator Sheheen accountable for his votes," says Gustafson. "We've had no choice but to reelect him, no matter what he says or does, even when his votes don't reflect our core values. I cannot sit on the sidelines and watch him go unchallenged again. This time voters will not be robbed of a choice. I have decided to run for State Senate and provide a clear choice for the people of District 27 for the first time in almost two decades.” Penry Gustafson initially filed on March 16th for State House District 52. She explained why she withdrew from the House race to run for the SC Senate, “I had no intention to run for State Senate, but conservative leaders have urged me to step up. It was a difficult decision, but doing the right thing often takes courage. I’ve never been afraid to do the right thing, and I truly believe democracy works best when the people have a choice. April 10, 2020
It's how we hold politicians accountable! Another Republican candidate, Vic Dabney, offered to run for State House 52, giving people a choice in that race. We need more citizens to offer themselves for public service and challenge insiders and career politicians. Now voters will have a choice in both races." Drew McKissick, Chairman of the South Carolina Republican Party, said the Senate race will be a priority for Republicans this year. “We are excited that Penry is giving voters a choice this year. The voters of District 27 overwhelmingly elected and supports our President and Governor McMaster. They deserve a State Senator like Penry who supports Republican ideals and will stand with them.” Penry Gustafson is a community leader with a servant’s heart. After selling her successful small business, she supported her family through grit, integrity, and hard work as a top salesperson for a national company. Penry now works tirelessly for others by serving on the Board of Directors for Food for the Soul and a leader at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. She has volunteered and served with organizations such as Meals on Wheels, the Red Cross, Kershaw County Fine Arts, H.U.G.S. for the Homeless, Graceworks, Habitat for Humanity, Newberry College Kappa Delta Chapter Advisory Board, Transitions and others. Penry and her husband Todd live in Kershaw County and have three college-aged children--William, Drew, and Maggie. Senate District 27 includes citizens in Kershaw, Chesterfield, and Lancaster counties. In 2016, Donald Trump carried the district with 59% of the vote.
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