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The Elgin News P.O. Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045
Cate Goff, Publisher (803)
Congratulations to Swingin’ Purple Door, the charming vintage clothing boutique in Lugoff for winning the KCCC Beautification Award!
Owner Pam Alderman proudly accepted the award from Christine Denis and the Kershaw County Clean Commission team.
If you haven’t stopped by yet, this is your sign. Support local. Celebrate charm. And thank you, Swingin’ Purple Door, for helping keep Lugoff beautiful!
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. 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, Publisher · Email: elginnews@gmail.com
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Hit and Run With Property Damage: On 02-10-2026, at approximately 1155 Officer responded to 2464 Main Street (First Citizens Bank) in the Town of Elgin within the boundaries of Kershaw County S.C., in reference to a hit and run with property damage to the building. Upon arrival, Officer made contact with the Manager who witnessed a white in color work truck pull away from the building and noticed it struck a post that was near the atm. The post was attached to the building. The post was damaged. Manager was able to provide me with the Passenger’s information. Due to the location being outside of my jurisdiction, Officer requested for a Richland County Deputy to respond to the Passenger’s location and inquire about the incident and possibly locating the suspect and vehicle. Officer received a call from a Richland County Deputy that responded to the location and confirmed the driver of the incident was Subject and he was driving a white in color, 1995 Chevy GMT-400 bearing a South Carolina tag. As Officer was on the phone with the Deputy, he was able to hear from Subject that he did not know his truck hit anything on the property and he was under the impression as he drove away from the bank the tailgate on the truck opened and made a loud noise. Subject drove off and did not realize it was the back of his truck that had swung far enough over and damaged the building. Subject provided Officer with his insurance information and a phone number. Due to Subject not having criminal intentions and did not know he was involved in an accident that had property damage, Officer will not pursue charges of hit and run.
Simple Possession of Marijuana: While on routine patrol of the incident location (Elgin Community Center) the Officer observed a burgundy 2013 Hyundai Tuscon bearing SC tag parked with no lights on and occupied by four people. During this time the community center did not have an active rental. The reporting officer made contact and upon exiting his patrol vehicle could smell a strong odor of marijuana. All occupants were identified and clear NCIC. Suspect 1 was in the drivers seat, Suspect 2 in the front passenger seat, Suspect 3 in the left rear and Suspect 4 in the right rear. While speaking with Suspect 1 Officer inquired about any marijuana being in the vehicle and Suspect 1 advised there was just a little. She handed the report-
ing officer a small pink bag that contained a silver package in the shape of a cd with the label of “Grand Theft Auto III’ on it. Inside was a green leafy substance believed to be marijuana (approximate field weight 2 grams). She then handed Officer a brown rolled blunt that was half torn open that also contained a green leafy substance believed to be marijuana. Just outside the left rear passenger door was a pile of tobacco shavings commonly known as “blunt guts.” Officer requested additional units to conduct a search of the vehicle due to the odor and items handed over by Suspect 1. Kershaw County Deputies J. Branham and C. Truesdale responded to assist. All four occupants were then removed from the vehicle and a search was conducted, revealing no further contraband. Due to three of the Suspects being juveniles their parents were contacted. The juveniles were released to their legal guardians without charges. The contraband was seized to be destroyed and placed in the drug drop box at headquarters. The vehicle was released to the legal owner and parents of Suspect 1. Officer’s body worn camera was activated.
Assisting Other Agency: Officer was flagged down by a concerned citizen while at the BP. They advised on the 2500 Block of Main Street near Dollar General there was a white male in a brown jacket with a flashlight and that he was running in and out of traffic. Citizen advised he almost struck the individual and was concerned. Officer responded to the area and located a white male matching the description walking north on the side of Main Street. He was not in the roadway at the time. Officer recognized the Suspect from previous encounters. The night prior the Suspect was arrested by Kershaw County deputies. Earlier in the night, Central Dispatch received three different calls from a Bookman Road address, just outside of town from the Suspect. He was claiming to have seen people running down the road. Since this time he managed to walk to town. When Officer made contact the Suspect was clearly under he influence of some form of stimulant. He was talking fast, not able to stand still, his pupils did not react to light as they should being pin point, but stayed dilated. He admitted to using the night prior and that his drug of choice was “ice.” Due to the constant 911 calls previously in the night and him being out of it Kershaw County Deputies McCaskill and Branham responded and met with the reporting officer. Deputy Branham and Officer spoke with family, who advised the
claims of people being outside the house at the Bookman Road address and calling 911 were all because they believed he was high. The Suspect’s father advised they had cameras there and nothing was observed. However, he did advise after the Suspect was released from jail he did pick him up from Cook Road and bring him to their house. Once there at around 1545 hours the Suspect had been pacing around the yard ever since rambling about things that made no sense. The Suspect was placed under arrest by Kershaw County Deputies for Unlawful Use of 911, as it appeared nothing he described indicated an emergency, so calling 911 three times was unlawful. The reporting officer’s body worn camera was activated. Reference Kershaw County Sheriffs Office case number 2026-00640.
Driving Without Lights/No SCDL/Permitting Unauthorized Driver: While on routine patrol along the 2600 Block of Main Street the Officer observed a black 2020 Honda Accord bearing SC tag that had no functioning tail lights. A traffic stop was conducted Suspect 1 was found to be the driver and his ten year old brother the front right passenger. The reporting officer requested his drivers license and he responded he did not have one. He provided his name and birth date, which was cross referenced SCDMV files revealing he only had a identification and no valid license. He was clear NCIC. While speaking with Suspect 1 it was revealed he was on the phone with his mother (Suspect 2), who was the registered owner of the vehicle. She began excitingly uttering how she let him drive to go to the store for baby formula and that she knew it was illegal. Suspect 1 was finally able to produce the vehicle’s registration. Suspect 2 advised she was getting an Uber to respond to the traffic stop location. While speaking with Suspect 1, a drivers license was observed in his lap in a small wallet. It was found to be Suspect 2’s license. It was checked through SCDMV and was valid. She was also clear NCIC. It was determined the lights on the vehicle were not functioning due to Suspect 1 not having the lights on, so the vehicle only had forward facing running lights in operation while driving. Suspect 1 was cited for Driving without Lights and No SCDL. Suspect 2 responded and took possession of the vehicle and of the children. Suspect 2 was cited for Allowing Unauthorized Persons to Drive. Both were released until their court date. Body camera was activated.
LOVE-ly Thoughts And Positive Vibes
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Have you written a note to your valentine? I received one from mine. February, the shortest month with only 28 days this year, is known for celebrating Presidents Day, Black History Month, Heart Health, and love on Valentine’s Day.
The definition of Love is a strong interest or pleasure (noun) or caring deeply for someone or something (verb). Its emotions vary among individuals young and old.
Two months into the year, I have maintained my resolution to begin a morning devotion routine. I decided to incorporate reading one Psalm every day and trying to work on memorization of verses of love, hope and faith. My mornings feel less hurried because I start each day by praying for others and thinking positively.
What a blessing it has been to have taught for 30 years in this Lugoff Elgin community. Throughout my time at LE, I have witnessed countless acts of kindness and generosity that have truly shaped my outlook on teaching.
I will never forget particularly challenging memories when the community organized projects for families in need, in the loss of homes and loved ones. These experiences not only provided vital support to our students but also inspired me to approach each day with compassion and a commitment to service. I admire the leadership and volunteers who continuously give their time and resources to meet the needs of others; their example has motivated me to write about and encourage that same spirit of giving.
Councilman Derek Shoemake (LE ’97) announced that March 21, there will be a Spring Litter Pick-Up from 9 to 12, chaired by Jill Wolfe. For further details, contact kccleancommission@gmail.com.
“I have seen leaders of all ages from 11 years old to 80 plus setting an example by picking up trash along the highway and making donations out of pride and love for Lugoff-Elgin and Kershaw County,”
said Shoemake.
Recently, I met with my former yearbook editor, Kim Moak Kelly (LE ’92), at her restaurant, Southern Mama’s Kitchen in Elgin. Her restaurant offers a buffet lunch and dinner Thursday through Sunday.
Kim began a blessing box ministry Sunday, August 17 Bless Your Heart Meals, distributing food every Sunday after her restaurant closes at three. At 3:30 there is a line of about 50 to 60 or more people who regularly benefit from her generosity. She and her staff place devotional items in carry out bags with boxes of food for families in need, the elderly, and shut ins.
Kim wears a bracelet on her arm with one of her favorite verses in The Bible from Psalms 46:5 “God is within her; She will not fail.” Kim shares her faith with others, and I know that verse motivates me to be a stronger person.
On Saturday, February 28th from 2 to 4 pm, Kim Kelly, owner of Southern Mama’s Kitchen and Jerry Lee, administrator of the Facebook page Dinner with the Demons, will entertain an LEHS alumni event welcoming author (Class of ’93) Ernie Tai, who will discuss his writing journey at 3 pm and the inspiration for his two nonfiction books Home for Supper (A memoir which features several chapters about growing up in Kershaw County and attending the Lugoff-Elgin schools) and Christian Impossible: The Jesus Way to Lead. Kim Kelly will also share her vision for her blessing box ministry and announce her plans for the business hurdles she is currently facing.
Jerry Lee wrote in his Facebook post, “Liz Simon gave me some homework today, and I'm doing it now as opposed to waiting until tomorrow morning on the school bus, but this time it's to make an announcement nothing like making verbs conjugate or participles dangle. Demons and Demonettes, particularly those in the classes in the 80s, Ernie is hoping to see as many classmates and friends as he can while he is here for the weekend.”
Jerry started this Facebook group to help alumni stay connected. Their last gathering was on July 6, 2024, at a Columbia restaurant. Their next event will be Saturday, February 28 from 2 -4 at Southern Mama’s Kitchen in Elgin. This is the perfect opportunity for classmates, teachers, and friends to reconnect, reminisce, and make new memories.
Serving Kershaw County since 1989
LEHS Books & Brunch Club
Members of the Lugoff-Elgin High School Books & Brunch club recently gathered for a themed tea party and discussion centered on the novel The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee. The young adult historical adventure follows an 18th-century nobleman and his friends on a fast-paced European journey filled with mystery, romance, and self-discovery. Students voted to read the book
as their monthly selection and celebrated with a traditional tea
complete with teacups, snacks and decorative hats. During the meeting, members shared their thoughts on favorite characters, memorable moments and key plot points. The club meets each month to encourage a love of reading while building friendships among students who share a passion for literature.
Black History Living Museum at Blaney Elem.
Sophomore Ashlynn Brown and senior Erin Carpenter select a teacup and refreshments to set the scene for their themed literary discussion as school librarian Anne Lemieux prepares accompaniments.
Club members gather to prepare a plate during Books & Brunch before beginning their discussion on The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue together.
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Blaney Elementary fourth graders made history come alive with a Black History "Living History Museum"! Dressed as influential figures, they shared inspiring stories with parents and classmates, bringing the past to life.
Above left, BES Fourth Grader Brandon Njoh shares the story of WIlliam Harvey Carney with a group of students
Above right, BES Fourth Grader Treasure Brown shares the story of Frederick Douglas.
Blaney, LEHS Partner For LEHS Caring Closet
Lugoff-Elgin High School (LEHS) teacher Carie Knight recently had the honor of accepting donations for the LEHS Caring Closet, from the Ray of Sunshine Leadership Council, a student service initiative at Blaney Elementary School sponsored by district Teacher of the Year, Ms. Randi Ray. LEHS's Caring Closet is a resource dedicated to providing essential items to assist individuals who may face challenges accessing everyday necessities while fostering a strong sense of community support. Founded by LEHS teachers Carie Knight and Marnie Melton, the Caring Closet offers a range of basic personal care items, including shampoo, lotion, hairbrushes, toothpaste, school supplies, and clothing.
The Ray of Sunshine Leadership Council collected an abundance of hygiene items and school supplies to support this initiative at LEHS. During the visit, Knight spoke with students about why the Caring Closet was established three years ago and the meaningful impact it continues to have on students in need. She expressed how impressed she was with the compassion and leadership demonstrated by the students, describing them as “young leaders in the making.” The initiative highlights the power of community collaboration within the district and showcases the positive partnership between schools and students. Knight extended her gratitude to Blaney Elementary and shared how proud she is to serve in the Kershaw County School District.
Carie Knight (second from left) accepts donations from Randi Ray (at right) to add to the LEHS Caring Closet for students and community members in need.
Night To Shine Returns to Kershaw County
The Night to Shine celebration returned to Lugoff for its seventh local year, marking the 12th anniversary of the global event sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. With a “State Fair” theme at the Rocket, the evening welcomed 120 honored guests — the largest group yet — for an unforgettable special needs prom experience.
The joy was unmistakable. One guest left in tears because he did not want the night to end, and others have since been spotted around town proudly wearing their crowns. The celebration included dancing, karaoke, games, face painting, and plenty of fair-inspired fun, all made possible by generous sponsors.
A total of 238 volunteers said yes to serving, helping create a magical evening not only for the honored guests but also for 120 parents and guardians who were given a special night of their own. Adding to the excitement was the presence of Tess Ferm, Miss America’s Teen, whose kindness and energy made the event even more memorable.
Plans are already underway for the next Night to Shine on Friday, February 12, 2027 — a night this community clearly cannot wait to celebrate again.
Photos courtesy Johnny Deal, BowTie Photography.
March 2026 Library Events
Weekly Events
Weekly on Wednesdays
10:30 AM – 11:15 AM in Camden
Baby Storytime: A fun time of stories, songs and movement for the very young. For ages 0-2.
Weekly on Wednesdays
11:30 AM – 12 PM in Camden
Get Set to Read Storytime: Join us for stories, songs and fun. For ages 3-5.
Weekly on Thursdays
10:30 AM – 11:15 AM in Elgin
Baby Storytime: A fun time of stories, songs and movement for the very young. For ages 0-2.
Weekly on Thursdays
11:30 AM – 12 PM in Elgin
Get Set to Read Storytime: Join us for stories, songs and fun. For ages 3-5.
Weekly on Thursdays
1 PM – 3 PM in Elgin
Crafty Crafters: Bring your latest craft project (knit, crochet, quilting, etc.) and join the crafting circle at the Elgin library to share tips, tricks, or just enjoy conversation together.
Weekly on Fridays
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM in Elgin
Homeschool Chess: Join other kids and parents for chess at the Elgin branch! Ages 6-17.
Special Events
Monday, March 2
5 PM – 6 PM in Camden
Spring Quilling: Join Beth Langley in creating a spring bouquet of flowers using filigree paper art! For ages 18+.
Tuesday, March 3
5 PM – 6 PM in Camden
Yoga with Charlotte: Charlotte Dewar completed the 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, Flow Style Yoga in 2021. Charlotte’s yoga teaching style encourages you to align and sync your body, breath and soul. She is also certified in Kidding Around Yoga and believes a good sense of humor is essential in life. Please show up a few minutes early to get settled before class. Don’t forget your yoga mat! Call 803-425-1508 to register. For ages 18 and up.
Wednesday, March 4
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM in Camden
Zumba with Courtney: Courtney Tidwell is a Human Services Professional and founder of Heal and Balance, with a heart for helping others reconnect with their bodies, minds, and spirits. As a certified Zumba and Dance Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer, and Reiki Master, Courtney believes movement is more than exercise—it’s a path to healing, self-expression, and joy. Her Zumba classes are more than a workout—they’re an invitation to release stress, embrace community, and feel good in your own skin. With a warm, uplifting approach, Courtney creates a space where all bodies are welcome and every beat is a chance to celebrate life. Please call the library at 803-425-1508 to register. For 18 yrs. and up.
Thursday, March 5
4 PM – 5:30 PM in Camden
KCL Chess Club: Drop in for a chess club for all ages and skill levels! If you don’t know how to play, we offer free lessons for ages 8 to adult. In each session, we’ll also discuss tactics for your chess game.
Thursday, March 5
4 PM – 6 PM in Elgin
#hangout: Teens ages 12-17 can join other teens at the library for fun, games, conversation and crafts.
Friday, March 6
10 AM – 11 AM in Camden
HSC Whiz Kids: Join other homeschoolers ages 5-8 to discover the formation of rainbows, weather and the environment, as well as primary and secondary colors, by conducting three experiments from the book Curious George Discovers the Rainbow. All materials supplied. Register by email: laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org
Friday, March 6
11:15 AM – 12:15 PM in Camden
HSC Tween Teams: The beauty of weaving and your skills will shape a small spring basket using yarn, hot glue and other accessories. Materials supplied. Ages 9-12. Register: laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org
Friday, March 6
6 PM – 10 PM in Camden
Open Game Night: Teens can come and join us at the library for RPG and strategy-based board games with other gamer teens. We’ll have a wide variety of games to choose from or they can bring a favorite. Ages 13-17. Seats are limited. To reserve your teen’s spot, please email markw@kershawcountylibrary.org by Weds. March 4.
Saturday, March 7
12 PM – 2 PM in Elgin
Adult D&D: Calling all adventurers ages 18+! KCL's Gaming Coordinator, Mark Wood, is now hosting a LIVE D&D for adults at the Elgin branch every 1st and 3rd Saturday from 12 - 2 PM. Space is limited! Sign up required. To sign-up, please email markw@kershawcountylibrary.org
Monday, March 9
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM in Camden
Plant Propagation Workshop: In this hands-on class we will be learning how to propagate plants for continual growth. We will focus on seeding, dividing established plants, and how to take cuttings. Feel free to bring plants of your own for assistance in propagation. Ages 18+. Please call 803-425-1508 to register.
Tuesday, March 10
9 AM – 6 PM in Elgin
St. Pat’s Take-and-Make: Drop in to pick up a take-and-make kit for your child to make their own lucky charm! Limit one per child.
Tuesday, March 10
4 PM – 6 PM in Elgin
BLOX: Kids and teens of all ages can join us at the Elgin library to build with a variety of bricks and blocks. Enjoy Legos, K’nex, Lincoln Logs, Snap Circuits, wooden blocks, and more.
Wednesday, March 11
1:30 PM – 3 PM in Camden
Teen Hangout: All teen homeschoolers are welcome to come talk, create, and throw out ideas in a new and extended format. Can you come? Email to sign up: laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org
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Wednesday, March 11
5 PM – 7 PM in Elgin
Adult Crafting: Join us to craft something fun that is spring themed! Ages 18+ only.
Thursday, March 12
4 PM – 5 PM in Camden
Lego Club: Kids and parents playing along are welcome to join us in playing with Legos at the library.
Thursday, March 12
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM in Camden
Center for Heirs Property: This nonprofit will present on issues affecting owners of Heirs Property including: Clearing title and resolving heirs’ property issues so families can secure legal ownership, estate planning guidance to help protect property for future generations, as well as preventing land loss and connecting families to resources that support keeping property in the family.
In this seminar, you’ll learn about the economic and environmental value of your land through sustainable forestry and land management services and also learn about tools from forestry professionals on how to care for your land, generate income, and build generational wealth.
A Q&A session will follow the presentation.
Friday, March 13
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM in Camden
Little Explorers’ Club: Join us in making a shamrock and rainbow necklace after reading a leprechaun story. All materials supplied. For ages 2-5. Email laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org to register.
Saturday, March 14
10 AM – 1 PM in Camden
Mango Languages Drop-In: Irish Language: Drop by the Camden Branch and learn how to learn! Interested in the Irish Language? We have an app for that! Your library provides Mango Languages with over 70 world languages and more than 20 English courses. Carry the lessons with you via the app to learn on the go. No sign up required, just stop by.
Saturday, March 14
10 AM – 12 PM in Elgin
SaturYAY – St. Pat’s Luck! Kids can craft their own painted Blarney stones or another of our fun lucky charms! For kids ages 12 and under.
Monday, March 16
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM in Camden
St. Patrick’s Day DIY Craft: Looking for a little luck o' the Irish to help celebrate St. Patrick's Day? Join us for an hour of crafting fun with Susan Leonard! For ages 18 and up. Please call 803-425-1508 to register.
Wednesday, March 18
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM in Camden
Read to Fraser: Come read aloud to Fraser, a friendly Golden Doodle, who wants to help you become the best reader possible! He'll be in the Camden Branch meeting room waiting for you!
Wednesday, March 18
5 PM – 6:30 PM in Camden
Labyrinths, Lecture, & Learn: Enjoy learning about labyrinths (the meditation and multipurpose tool, not the movie) through an interactive presentation with Beth Langley. You'll see a PowerPoint presentation featuring photos of various labyrinths in use, some under construction, and artwork created by youth and adult students. You can see, hold, and use a variety of finger labyrinths. You'll also get to learn to draw classical labyrinths from the seed patterns. If the weather permits, we may find ourselves chalking a labyrinth on the concrete slab at the end and get to walk a labyrinth we create together.
Thursday, March 19
4 PM – 5:30 PM in Camden
KCL Chess Club: Drop in for a chess club for all ages and skill levels! If you don’t know how to play, we offer free lessons for ages 8 to adult. In each session, we’ll also discuss tactics for your chess game.
Thursday, March 19
4 PM – 6 PM in Elgin #hangout: Teens ages 12-17 can join other teens at the library for fun, games, conversation and crafts.
Saturday, March 21
10 AM – 2 PM in Elgin
Game Day: Stop in anytime during branch hours to play with our selection of board games. Feel free to bring your own! It’s fun for all ages.
Saturday, March 21
12 PM – 2 PM in Elgin
Adult D&D: Calling all adventurers ages 18+! KCL's Gaming Coordinator, Mark Wood, is now hosting a LIVE D&D for adults at the Elgin branch every 1st and 3rd Saturday from 12 - 2 PM. Space is limited! Sign up required. To sign-up, please email markw@kershawcountylibrary.org
Monday, March 23
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM in Elgin
Elgin Book Club: Drop in and discuss Queen of Sugar Hill by ReShonda Tate. Request your book at the front desk.
Tuesday, March 24
6 PM – 7 PM in Camden
Camden Book Club: This month, our club is reading Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell. Request a copy at the Camden front desk. New members welcome!
Thursday, March 26
4 PM – 5 PM in Camden
Lego Club: Kids and parents playing along are welcome to join us in playing with Legos at the library.
Saturday, March 28
10 AM – 12 PM in Elgin
Art Avenue: Teens & tweens can join us for camaraderie with other artists at the Elgin branch. Bring your own supplies or use ours. For ages 10-17. Kids 10 - 12 must have a parent present.
Saturday, March 28
10 AM – 12 PM in Camden
Bare Roots Beginnings: Begin your groundwork using family history lessons and tools found on Ancestry Library Edition. Outline what you already know about your family and move backwards into your ancestry. Create a good search using special tips & tricks for narrowing your returns. Ages 18+; due to limited seating, please register at the Camden branch or call 803-425-1508.
Ancestry Library Edition is available inside the library only and does not require a username or password. You may bring your laptop or electronic device with you for personal classroom use.
Monday, March 30
4 PM – 6 PM in Elgin
Catchin’ the Sun: Kids ages 6-12 are welcome to join us to paint a suncatcher for the upcoming warmer months! Please dress in clothes that are ok to get messy.
*Limited supplies. Sign-up not required but recommended to hannag@kershawcountylibrary.org
Tuesday, March 31
9 AM – 11 AM in Camden/Elgin
SC Works: If you’re looking to reenter the work force or need help with your career planning, drop by and see how SC Works can help.
Blaney Elementary Awarded Conservation Mini-Grant
Blaney Elementary has been awarded a 2025–26 Conservation Education Mini-Grant from the Kershaw Soil & Water Conservation District in the amount of $1,000!
This grant will support the development of “Blaney’s Year-Round Veggie Village,” a school garden that will serve as an outdoor classroom for students in Pre-K through 5th grade. Through hands-on learning, students will explore soil health, water conservation, sustainable food systems, and environmental stewardship.
Pictured above row from left to right: Donna Douglas (Kershaw Soil & Water Conservation District), BES Kindergarten teacher Stacy Kelly, BES Assistant principal Detra Simmons, BES STEM Lab teacher Alyssa Maner. Front row: BES Students Dillon Leonard, Zoey Townsend, and Giana Icovelli
Ft. Clark Annual Senior Day
Fort Clark Baptist Church will be having their annual Senior Day on Sunday, March 8th, 2026, during thier regular 10:00am Worship Service.
The public is cordially invite to come help us celebrate. Fort Clark Baptist Church is located at 421 Veterans Row in Elgin.
Community Tree Planting Day
The City of Camden welcomed a record number of volunteers on Monday for its Community Tree Planting Day, with residents of all ages gathering at Scott Park in the morning and City Arena Park in the afternoon to help expand the City’s urban tree canopy.
A total of forty-four trees were planted, with two additional trees scheduled to be planted once ground conditions allow. The new additions include Black Gum, Holly, Nuttall Oak, and Dawn Redwood — species selected for their long-term environmental and aesthetic benefits.
The event brought together families, students, civic organizations, and community partners in a shared effort to strengthen Camden’s urban forest.
“We were overwhelmed and excited at the enthusiasm we saw in our volunteers who helped at Scott Park in the morning and City Arena Park in the afternoon,” said Kat Spadacenta, Community Development Coordinator for the City of Camden. “I can’t thank enough the individuals and organizations who took time out of their day to help improve the sustainability of our urban forest.”
The City extends special thanks to the Iota Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Camden High School SC Beta Club, and Trinity Methodist Church of Camden Youth Group for their participation and support.
This event was made possible through the Trees4SC program, a partnership between the Green Infrastructure Center and the South Carolina Forestry Commission, which assists communities across South Carolina in conserving and expanding urban tree cover.
Community tree planting initiatives like this one reflect Camden’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and long-term sustainability.
LEHS Wrestling Season Recap
The Lugoff-Elgin High School wrestling team capped off another remarkable season with a 40–3 dual record, including a 26-match winning streak, and a fourth straight appearance in the 5A Division II State Championship match. Though they came up short against a talented Fort Mill High School squad in the finals, Head Coach Ted Monroe emphasized that the championship result does not define the team’s season.
“We were battle tested, we had a plan, and we got basically all of the matchups we wanted,” Monroe said. “However, it wasn’t meant to be. I don’t think that match diminishes everything that this team accomplished.”
And accomplished they did. LEHS claimed titles at the Cane Bay Duals, Wildcat Duals, and Military Duals, finished runner-up at the Venom Duals and Demon Tournament, captured its 10th straight Region Championship, and secured its fourth consecutive Lower State Championship. The team also earned nine All-Region selections and celebrated major individual milestones, including Kendel Coker and Jakaleb Robinson reaching 100 career wins. Gabe Rush and Logan Hinton both surpassed 150 career wins and 100 career pins, with Rush becoming the program’s all-time pins leader.
Despite early-season injuries that sidelined multiple starters, the team adapted throughout the year. “Simply put, we did what we had to do, and we did it successfully,” Monroe said. “That’s the definition of a TEAM — Together Everyone Achieves More.” Wrestlers shifted weight classes, filled in when needed, and battled through adversity to maintain the program’s championship standard.
Individually, LEHS sent eight wrestlers to the state tournament: freshman Logan Vinson (113); sophomore Tyler McChesney (132), a two-time qualifier; senior Gabe Rush (157), a three-time qualifier and North-South All-Star selection; junior Jakaleb Robinson (175), a two-time qualifier; junior Logan Hinton (190), a three-time qualifier and 5A State Champion; sophomore Billy Moore (215); junior Landon Lyons (285), a two-time qualifier; and senior Adriyanna Mercado (120), who made school history as the program’s first-ever female state qualifier.
With a dominant dual record, another Lower State title, a state champion, multiple repeat qualifiers, and historic milestones, the 2025 season will be remembered as one of the strongest in LEHS wrestling history — a team built on resilience, depth, and pride.
A-Tax Grant Application Period Open
The Kershaw County Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee is now accepting Accommodations Tax Tourism Funding Grant applications for the 2026-27 funding cycle.
This grant program is open to non-profit organizations in Kershaw County for advertising and marketing projects or sites that promote local tourism activity.
Key details regarding the application process are as follows:
- Grant Workshop: March 11, 2025, at 5:30 pm in Room 190 of the Kershaw County Administration building (515 Walnut Street, Camden, S.C. 29020).
- Applications: May be obtained by calling the Kershaw County Government Center at (803) 425-6778.
- Submission Deadline: Completed applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on March 31, 2026.
- Submission Address:
Attn: Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee
Kershaw County Administration, 515 Walnut Street, Camden, S.C. 29020
For any inquiries, please contact Tyler Kirk at Tyler.Kirk@kershaw.sc.gov or (803) 425-1506 ext. 5304.
Pictured above, left, *most* of the LEHS Wrestling Team after winning the Lexington Wildcat Duels earlier in the season. At right, Junior Logan Hinton wins the individual championship in his weight class.
You Can Help Honor KCSO Fallen Officers
Last Saturday marked the 52nd anniversary of the line-of-duty death of Deputy Ernest Christian “Chris” Potter III, a member of the KCSO whose sacrifice must never be forgotten.
On February 21, 1974, Deputy Potter and his partner stopped to investigate two men hitchhiking along I-20. As they exited their patrol car, a third suspect emerged from behind a guardrail and held them at gunpoint. The suspects forced the deputies down an embankment and opened fire. Deputy Potter was struck multiple times in the head and killed. His partner was also shot in the head and seriously wounded, but survived.
Earlier that same day, the suspects had murdered Patrolman Richey Finch of the Forest Acres PD after he stopped their vehicle. The shooter in Deputy Potter’s case was sentenced to life plus 99 years and remains in prison.
Deputy Potter had served with the KCSO for only four months. He was survived by his wife who was pregnant with their only son. In a powerful testament to his father’s legacy, his son, Chris Potter IV, joined the Richland County Sheriff's Department in 1997, where he continues to serve today.
We honor Deputy Potter and all fallen officers by remembering their courage, their service, and the families who continue to carry their legacy. May we never forget their sacrifice.
Deputy Potter is one of nine law enforcement officers in Kershaw County’s history who have given their lives in the line of duty. Yet they have never received a proper memorial. Efforts are now underway to change that. Please help us remember these heroes by donating to their memorial if you can.
Above: Deputy Chris Potter was killed over 50 years ago while serving KCSO. A project to create a memorial to honor all fallen KCSO officers is underway. Scan the QR code to learn more.
