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Letters to the Editor

The Elgin News P.O. Box 152 Elgin, SC 29045

Cate Goff, Editor (803) 513-5108

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.

The Elgin Town Council met for its regular monthly session on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 6 p.m., with Mayor Melissa Emmons presiding.

The meeting opened with an invocation delivered by Mayor Emmons, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilman Brad Hanley. Council members Cristy Bradley, Brad Hanley, and Dana Sloan were present, along with Chief Alan Anders, Lt. Chris DeLong, Clerk of Court Doris Craven, and Town Attorney John Wells.

Council approved the minutes from the October 7 special business meeting with a unanimous vote.

MUSC Health Presents County Growth Update

During the public forum, Dave Adams of MUSC Health shared an overview of the organization’s expansion in Kershaw County, outlining continued growth and service enhancements.

Routine Business

Council unanimously adopted the meeting agenda and reviewed new business license applications submitted in October. The list included a range of businesses—from construction companies and electrical contractors to small retail and creative service providers.

No charity event requests or complaints were submitted for October.

Old Business

Council received rental data for the Elgin Community Center for both September and October.

New Business

Chief Alan Anders briefed Council on several police and community updates:

• Twenty applications had been submitted for this year’s Toys Roundup program as of November 4.

• School Resource Officers Alex Picciolo and Ellen DeLong were recognized as Officers of the Quarter.

• Officer of the Year will be announced at the Town of Elgin’s Employee Christmas Dinner.

• More than $88,000 in expenses have been reimbursed through the SRO grant.

• Council unanimously reappointed Chip Napper to the Elgin Planning and Zoning Commission. Members also authorized Mayor Emmons to sign an MOU with Sandhills Medical Foundation for its mobile medical unit, which is scheduled to be onsite November 18.

• Council Briefing

• Councilwoman Cristy Bradley expressed her gratitude for the community’s support during her family’s recent losses.

• Councilwoman Dana Sloan announced that a different tree at the town park will serve as the main Christmas tree this year.

• Councilman Brad Hanley had no report.

• Councilman Paul Rizzo was absent.

• Mayor Emmons and Attorney Wells had no report.

Executive Session and Adjournment

Council entered executive session at 6:43 p.m. to discuss a personnel matter at the request of Chief Anders. The session concluded at 7:24 p.m., and Council returned to open session with no further action reported.

The meeting adjourned immediately afterward. The next regular council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 6 p.m.

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 · Email: elginnews@gmail.com

Elgin Police Department Incident Reports

Fraud/Confidence Game/Breach of Trust:

On 11-14-2025 Officer was dispatched to 2530 Main St (Family Dollar) in the Town of Elgin within the boundaries of Kershaw County S.C. in reference to Financial Transaction Card Theft. The Complainant stated he was at a job site in Lugoff around 0900 and his wallet fell out of his pocket some time after he arrived. The victim stated he received an alert on his cell phone that his Cash App card was used at 1308 and 1309 from the Tobacco & Vape store, then at 1327 from Family Dollar in the Town limits of Elgin. The two transactions from the Tobacco & Vape store were $10.64 and $20.00, which were taken out of the victim's Cash App account. The transaction from Family Dollar was $18.09, but it was declined. The victim stated he also had his drivers license, bank card, and around $200 in his wallet. When Officer arrived at Family Dollar, Officer made contact with the Complainant and then Manager on duty. Manager showed Officer security video footage of the subject when he tried to use the victim's Cash App card. The subject was identified as Subject from the security video footage. Officer went to the Tobacco & Vape store and watched their security video footage but did not see the subject in the store during the time the Complainant informed me he was there. After running the Subject's name he was on Trespass from the Family Dollar. Officer activated my body worn camera upon arrival.

Larceny: On 11/12/25, Complainant came to Elgin Police Department to report some missing medication. She stated she noticed her medication (oxycodone) missing on 11/9/2025. Complainant stated she knew she only had 15 pills left in the bottle out of the 120 count to when the bottle is full. Complainant stated she is mainly concerned about her bottle being missing and that she has to have it when she goes back to the pain clinic on 11/20/25 to be able to get a refill. Complainant stated several times she was only concerned about her bottle being taken or (missing) and if she had the bottle she would not be at the police department to file a report. Complainant stated no one has been in her house on Branham Street, but her and her Roommate. Complainant stated at the time she didn't know Roommate's last name. Complainant stated Roommate also goes to the pain clinic and takes about 28 different pills a day, due to his pain and other health issues. Complainant stated Roommate is a great guy and she did not believe for any reason he would have taken her bottle or have

anything to do with her medication bottle being missing. Complainant stated she is not out of any money due to Medicare and Medicaid covering her prescriptions. I advised Complainant her report would be on file and she could pick up a copy on 11/13/2025 or any time after if she needed a copy. I did speak with Roommate to get his ID. Roommate made a reference that he thought Complainant may have misplaced. Roommate's info will be placed in the report.

Trespass of Real Property: On 11-10-2025 at approximately 0430, Officer responded to 2507 Main Street (Circle K) in the Town of Elgin within the boundaries of Kershaw County S.C., in reference to a suspicious female wearing a jacket and no pants. Upon arrival, Officer made contact with the female matching the description. Officer knew the female to be Subject who currently was trespassed from the property. Officer spoke with the store clerk who confirmed to me that Subject was inside of the store digging through the bathroom trashcan looking for a vape. The store clerk wanted the female to leave the property. Officer made contact with Subject for the second time and informed her that she was trespassed from the property. Subject requested to be seen by EMS and to be transported to the hospital for multiple medical issues. Officer requested for EMS to respond and Officer issued Subject a ticket for trespassing after notice. Subject was transported by Kershaw County EMS to MUSC Kershaw Hospital without further issues. Officer's body worn camera was activated upon arrival.

Domestic Violence, 2nd Degree: On 11-92025 at approximately 2200, Officer responded to Strawberry Field Lane in the Town of Elgin within the boundaries of Kershaw County S.C. in reference to a domestic dispute. Upon arrival, Officer made contact with Homeowner who stated Subject came to her house uninvited and proceeded to get into a physical altercation with her niece, Victim. Homeowner did not see the start of the altercation but did witness Subject and Victim tugging the child they have in common. Subject was attempting to take the child and Victim was trying to prevent him from doing so. The child was inside of Subject's vehicle, Victim was on the passenger side and Subject was on the driver side. Homeowner stated she attempted to help Victim by pulling on Subject's arm and she took the keys from the vehicle to keep Subject from driving off with the child. Subject is the father of the child but does not have any custody. Officer then spoke with Victim and inquired about the physical altercation prior to what Homeowner told Officer.

Victim stated Subject came to the front door to the residence and assaulted her by hitting her in the face with a closed fist and then pulling and pushing on her. Victim's verbal statement was confirmed by the doorbell camera at this residence. The video shows Victim exiting the front door of this residence, Subject approached and startled Victim. Subject hits Victim in the face using his right fist, Victim attempts to flee into the yard to escape the assault. Subject catches her and pushes are across the yard and eventually takes her to the ground. Once on the ground, both subjects are out of the camera view. Officer did see a red blemish on Victim's left cheek which is consistent with the doorbell camera video. Officer took a picture of the injury and will attach to this report. Officer spoke with Subject who at first did not provide any statement then stated Victim was the one who assaulted him by approaching him in the front yard and began scratching his neck. Video did not dictate any of his statement. After the physical altercation, Subject, Victim, Homeowner, and the child were outside. Subject grabbed the child and placed him into his vehicle and proceeded to drive the child around the neighborhood. Jones stated when he drove the child around the neighborhood he did not turn his headlights on and believed it to be reckless behavior. Victim also did not give Subject permission to take the child which was confirmed to be true per Subject's admission. When Subject parked the vehicle in front of this residence after taking the child, this was the point in the altercation where Victim attempted to take the child out of the vehicle and Smith was preventing her from doing so. Due to the above statement being confirmed by a witness and a video to prove the same, Officer advised Subject that he was under arrest for Domestic Violence in the 2nd degree. Subject assaulted Victim, a "household member" while in the presence of their minor child. Officer transported Subject to the Kershaw County Detention Center and placed a hold on him pending the warrant service. Officer requested to Kershaw County Central Dispatch to run Smith through NCIC, SC DMV, and for them to run a criminal history on Subject to check for any prior domestic violence convictions. Per Dispatch, Subject was not wanted by any other law enforcement, his drivers license status for South Carolina was suspended, and did not have any prior domestic violence convictions. Officer will be completing a warrant request charging Subject with DV 2nd degree. Officer's body camera was activated upon arrival.

Feasting Since the 1600s—Giving Thanks Never Gets Old

By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer

Thanksgiving is held on the fourth Thursday in November. Here are some interesting facts about it and other events that occur from Nov. 27–30. What do you recall about early settlers' experiences and their first celebrations?

October marks Colonial Heritage Month as designated by SC Gov. Henry McMaster; however, I usually reflect on the time span of history when Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492, and then I think about the Pilgrims and Plymouth Rock as we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. It has been over 400 years since that first feast.

During my elementary school years, students participated in seasonal activities such as fall crafts and pumpkin carving and engaged in themed dress-up day that reflected the Pilgrims and Indians. My memories include singing traditional songs like “Over the River and Through the Woods” and “We Gather Together” during music classes. Each year, the cafeteria staff prepared a special Thanksgiving meal for students and faculty on the day before the holiday, establishing a meaningful tradition within our school community.

“The colonial history of the United States spans the period of European colonization of North America from the 15th century to the establishment of the first permanent English settlement in Jamestown in 1607 and continues until the unification of the 13 British colonies and the onset of the American Revolution in the late 18th century.

In the late 16th century England, France, Spain, and the Dutch Republic also launched major colonization expeditions in North America after the British colonies won their independence from England and established the United States. It was then that colonial history transitioned to early American history. Acquiring these other colonial colonies became part of our early American history.” -Jane Massey, state chairman Colonial Heritage and Records.

The first Thanksgiving in America took place sometime between September and November 1621, though the exact date remains uncertain. The Pilgrims, having sailed from England on The Mayflower in 1620,

faced a harsh winter plagued by starvation and disease. Of the original 102 settlers, only fifty survived, including nineteen men, twenty-seven children, and four women.

Squanto, a Native American who had previously been captured and taken to England where he learned English, acted as a translator between the Wampanoag tribe and the Pilgrims that first year. He taught the settlers how to plant corn and other crops, as well as how to hunt and fish. Squanto also helped organize their harvest festival from similar European celebrations.

The earliest account of this celebration appears in William Bradford’s journal, which describes a three-day event featuring games, singing, and physical activities. Bradford, the first governor of Plymouth Colony, played a key role in establishing a permanent settlement in what is now known as the state of Massachusetts.

In 1789, our first President George Washington proclaimed a day of public Thanksgiving and prayer. First Lady Sarah Polk, wife of President James Polk our eleventh commander in chief who won victory in the Mexican-American War, hosted the first Thanksgiving dinner in the White House. Thanksgiving was officially declared a national holiday by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863.

President George H. W. Bush granted the first official turkey pardon in 1989, although tales of this tradition go back to Jack Lincoln asking his father to spare a turkey. Every year before Thanksgiving, the President pardons two turkeys. Rather than being part of the holiday meal, these turkeys join a White House parade and are later sent to live at a children’s farm.

Our Thanksgiving tables are full of our favorite dishes, ready for a feast unlike the first celebration over four hundred years ago. Our plans, our guests, our traditions are legacies we have come to appreciate along with the rites of the season. Macy’s Parade, football games, Black Friday shopping, Small Business Saturday, and finally The Palmetto Bowl (the Clemson Carolina game) make this holiday week one to remember.

Sunday, November 30th marks the start of Advent. My husband and I have been asked to light the Advent candle and read scripture at our church—a privilege we have not had in over 30 years. I appreciate being part of this season, giving thanks for our blessings and reflecting on its meaning.

Happy Thanksgiving to our The Elgin News Readers.

LEHS Cross Country Teams Make History at State Qualifier

Miss Lugoff-Elgin Middle 2025

ity; Charleston Mullins, Miss Photogentic; AudreyAnna Harvley, Miss Seventh Grade and Best Interview; Gracie Haney, Miss Sixth Grade; Palmer Bowen, Miss Lugoff-Elgin Middle School; Londyn Pollard, Miss Eighth Grade; Fraser Luther, Miss Entrepreneur; McKenney Proctor, Miss Congeniality and Mia Hoffman, Miss Fan Favorite. Photos courtesy Johnny Deal, BowTie Photography.

Students also participated in a touching tribute by setting America’s White Table, honoring those

Pictured is BES fourth grader Jayson Griffin presenting a thank you gift to former Marine Cor-

The WTC Kershaw County FFA Chapter housed at the Woolard Technology Center in Camden, South Carolina achieved 3 stars in the National Chapter Award Program. This program evaluates chapters in all 50 states and 2 U.S. Territories in the areas of Building Communities, Strengthening Agriculture & Growing Leaders.

The WTC Kershaw was selected as a Gold Chapter at the SC FFA State Convention in June 2025. Gold emblem chapters are in the top 10% of their state and demonstrate involvement in their communities, commitment to leadership, and passion for agriculture.

Above: WTC Kershaw FFA President Brady Darmer shaking hands with National FFA Officer Jack Lingenfelter on stage during the Second Session of the National FFA Convention held in Indianapolis, IN on October 30th.

Following this, the application advanced to the National level with the opportunity to earn one, two, or three stars. Three stars indicate that in all categories, WTC Kershaw FFA is going above and beyond and excels in all areas of their FFA Chapter and Agriculture Program. The FFA Chapter traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana, during the National FFA Convention on October 30th to receive this award. The FFA members, advisor, and officers work so hard throughout the year, and this award reflects the efforts made during the school and summer months. A big congratulations goes to the WTC Kershaw County FFA Chapter for this national accomplishment.

National FFA is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,027,273 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org.

ACT Now Before The Rains Come Down

Blaney Elementary School students and staff honored the brave men and women who have served our country during a Veterans Day program on November 11, 2025. The Lugoff-Elgin High

Boat Ramp Reopens at Veterans Park in Lugoff

Others participating in the celebration were members and employees of Kershaw County Council, Kershaw County Parks and Recreation, Ker-

Improvements include paved parking, 61 car and boat trailer parking spaces and a new floating dock. The ramps are now open to the public.

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Kershaw County Conducting Sewer System Testing

Kershaw County will conduct smoke testing of the sanitary sewer system November 17th through December 5th weather permitting. This test helps locate potential leaks or defects. Harmless white smoke will be introduced into the sewer system. This smoke may be seen coming from manholes or vent pipes. This is normal and safe. The smoke is non-toxic and non-staining and will disappear quickly.

The testing will occur in the Highway 1 corridor from the Town of Elgin to Lugoff-Elgin High School.

If smoke enters your home, open windows and doors for ventilation and notify field staff. Contact: Kershaw County Engineer Stephen Staley - stephen.staley@kershaw.sc.gov or Maurice Dela Torriente; Wastewater Operator - Maurice.delat@kershaw.sc.gov

Kershaw County Engineering Department –803-425-7230

KC Adult Education Honored

Kershaw County Adult Education (KCAE) received multiple state honors at the South Carolina Office of Adult Education’s 2025 Fall Training Institute and Awards Luncheon, held Friday, October 24. The program was recognized for its excellence in advancing adult learning and workforce development across Kershaw County.

KCAE earned the Workplace Literacy Award through its partnership with Cantey Foundations. This partnership established a course designed to advance their onboarding and advancement process for new employees. KCAE was also recognized for having the Highest Percentage of Participants in the Work Ready Credentials program. Both of these major accomplishments reflect Kershaw County Adult Education’s continued commitment to preparing adult learners for success in today’s workforce.

In addition, Kershaw County Adult Education received a Certificate of Adult Education Emerging Industry Partner for establishing a new Workplace Literacy Program in Digital Literacy in partnership with the Kershaw County Council on Aging (KCCA). This innovative initiative expands access to essential technology training for current and potential employees of the Council on Aging seeking to strengthen digital skills critical for employment and lifelong learning. Bruce Little, Director of KCCA states “the agency has transitioned to newer technology-based service capture and payment reconciliation platforms and this training will definitely aid that transition.”

The celebration’s highlight came when Jonathon Goodwin of Camden was named the South Carolina Office of Adult Education Outstanding Learner of the Year. Goodwin’s journey to earning his High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) is a powerful testament to perseverance and lifelong learning.

Jonathan refused to let past academic labels and challenges define him. Over several years, while often working two jobs, he steadily pursued his HSED through Kershaw County Adult Education—never allowing hardship to derail his determination. His success has inspired both peers and staff, culminating in his selection as a commencement speaker earlier this year, where he encouraged his classmates to “keep learning and have confidence in yourself.”

“Jonathon embodies the spirit of adult education—resilient, determined, and committed not only to his own growth but to the encouragement and success of others,” said Byron Johnson, Director of Kershaw County Adult Education. “We are proud of his achievements and equally proud of our team’s work to expand opportunities for adult learners across our community.”

Jonathon is now enrolled in SC Works and pursuing his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), continuing his journey toward greater economic opportunity.

These recognitions underscore Kershaw County Adult Education’s ongoing dedication to empowering adults through education, workforce preparation, and community partnerships.

Inset: Jonathon Goodwin of Camden was named the South Carolina Office of Adult Education Outstanding Learner of the Year. Below: KC Adult Education earned multiple awards at the State Conference.

DME Celebrates

KCSO Earns CALEA Accreditation

The Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office (KCSO) is proud to announce that it has earned International Accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA), widely recognized as “The Gold Standard in Public Safety.” Fewer than five percent of law enforcement agencies in the United States hold this prestigious distinction.

The accreditation was finalized last week during the CALEA Conference in Jacksonville, Fl., where KCSO successfully completed the final review and board interview process. The achievement marks the first time in KCSO’s history that it earned CALEA Accreditation.

During the conference, KCSO leadership orchestrated a memorable moment for Accreditation Manager Deputy Misty Burroughs. As the team walked to their official award photo, she was stopped under the pretense of needing a uniform adjustment—only to be surprised with a well-deserved promotion to the rank of SERGEANT. Her expression of shock and pride, captured in a photograph now cherished by the agency, marked a highlight of the event.

“This accreditation represents hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence,” the agency said in a statement. “Sgt. Burroughs has been instrumental in guiding our team through CALEA International Accreditation. We could not be prouder of her or of our entire team.”

With this milestone, KCSO now holds Dual Accreditation, maintaining both its SC State Accreditation and its new CALEA International Accreditation. This distinction underscores the agency’s ongoing commitment to professionalism, accountability, and providing the highest level of service to the citizens of Kershaw County.

Thank you, Sergeant Misty Burroughs, for your extraordinary work and dedication.