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The Elgin News
wants to hear from you It is the policy of The Elgin News to encourage reader participation on its editorial page. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. Because of space limitations, we must limit all contributors to one letter per person per month. Letters of 200 words or less will be published unless they contain language or content that the editors feel is inappropriate. Examples of content that will cause letters to be rejected include the following: • Disrespectful comments regarding a group's or individual's ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, religion, culture, or race. • Poor taste. • Endorsements for or complaints about • individually named commercial products or services. • Personal attacks. The Elgin News will not knowingly publish factually incorrect information. Only letters written exclusively to the newspaper will be published. Letters to a third party or those written to more than one newspaper are not accepted. Letters written in response to other letter writers should address the issue at hand and, rather than mentioning the writer by name, should refer to the headline and date the letter was published. Discourse should be civil and people should be referred to in a respectful manner. Letters referring to news stories should also mention the headline and date of publication. All letters must be signed and include the writer's street address or route address telephone number, which will be used for verification purposes only. We welcome your input. You may write to us by e-mail at elginnews@gmail.com or by regular mail at:
News From KC Council By: Councilman Derek Shoemake
Sometimes the most meaningful things a community does are also the simplest. At the entrance to Lugoff-Elgin High School, two memorial benches will soon sit across from each other. They are beautiful benches – modeled after the historic Charleston Battery benches that have lined Charleston’s waterfront for generations. Their ironwork features native South Carolina wildlife, and their cypress slats and memorial plaques were crafted locally right here in Lugoff. But what matters most is not the design. What matters is why they are there. These benches honor the memories of two young women from our community, Samantha Gladden and Maryann Large. Their classmates in the Lugoff-Elgin High School Class of 2026 chose to create something lasting – something that future students will see every day as they walk into school, and something that will honor the memory of these wonderful young women. It is a powerful reminder that the character of a community is often revealed in how it remembers, supports, and cares for one another. I am proud of the students who led this effort. At a time when it would have been easy to simply move on, they chose to come together and do something meaningful. They created a place where students can sit, reflect, talk with friends, or simply pause for a moment. And in doing so, they made sure that the memories of Sam and Maryann remain part of the story of Lugoff-Elgin High School. That kind of compassion and leadership from young people should make all of us hopeful about the future of Kershaw County. Because the truth is, the future of our community will belong to the young people growing up here today. The students walking through our schools now will one day be our teachers, business owners, deputies, nurses, and community leaders. Our job as a community is to make sure Kershaw County is a place where they want to build their lives. That means creating opportunities. It means making sure there are good jobs available here at home. It means supporting economic development that brings new industries and careers to our county. It also means continuing to invest in the things that make a community vibrant and welcoming – parks, recreation, and spaces where families and young people can gather. In fact, over the next 45 to 60 days, Kershaw County will complete what will be the largest recreation upgrades in our county’s history. These projects will expand opportunities for youth sports, outdoor activities, and community events across the county. Recreation might seem like a small thing compared to other government responsibilities, but it matters more than many people realize. Fields, parks, and trails are places where friendships are formed, where families spend time together, and where young people develop the teamwork SEE SHOEMAKE, PAGE 11 >>
The Elgin News P.O. Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045
Cate Goff, Publisher (803) 513-5108
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 2
March 12, 2026
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Larceny: Reporting officer was dispatched to the location, 2465 A Main Street (Subway), which is within the Town limits of Elgin, in regards to a customer consistently stealing money from the employee tip jar. Officer arrived on scene and made contact with the Manager who stated that she had CCTV footage of the same unknown black female stealing from the employee tip jar located in front of the register on three separate occasions. Manager was able to show Officer CCTV footage while on scene. Officer watched CCTV footage of the three separate incidents and the footage showed a similar incident each time. The subject, an older black female, enters and places an order then moves to the register to pay for that order. After the suspect pays for the order, she reaches her hand into the plastic tip jar located in from of the register and takes out whatever money is inside the container before leaving the location and getting into an unknown vehicle. Manager provided Officer with the dates of the three incidents and the approximate amounts of money that were taken each time. On 02/07/26 approx. $10, 03/02 approx. $15 and on 03/06 approx. $2 for a total of $27 taken during the three incidents. With all the information that Manager had collected, Officer advised that they would follow up as best as they could in an attempt to identify the suspect. Manager informed Officer that she planned to post the photos on social media in an attempt to figure out who the woman was and Officer informed her to call if anyone assisted in giving her a name of the suspect. Telephone Calls, Obscene/Harassing: While on duty at Stover Middle School, SRO was contacted by Assistant Principal who stated that she called CM’s parents to let them know CM received a Level 2 Disciplinary mark for failing to charge his Chromebook. While speaking to Parents of CM, Father/Subject began to get hostile and ultimately called Assistant Principal a “b&^%h a^% n%^*r” and hung up the phone on Assistant Principal. Subject has caused problems at both Stover Middle School and Blaney Elementary School and SRO wanted documentation of this incident. Assistant Principal did a written statement, which is attached to this report. Subject was placed on trespass from Kershaw County School District properties and sent notice by registered March 12, 2026
USPS letter. Shoplifting: On 02-21-2026, I (Officer Beck) responded to 2530 Main Street in the Town of Elgin, in reference to a shoplifting. Upon arrival, Officer made contact with Employee, who stated an unknown white female attempted to take items worth around $80.00 from the business (Family Dollar). The subject grabbed some items from inside the store, but once she got to the register she paid for a single candle. The Subject hid the rest of the items inside another bag she had with her. On security camera the subject passed all points of sale with the unpaid items and the security detector went off. The Employee stopped the Subject and she stated she did not have any unpaid items on her. The Subject did finally admit she had the items and dumped them into a cart on camera. Employee informed the Subject that she was on Trespass and to leave the store since all items were returned. The Subject left the scene before Officer arrived. Before the Subject left the scene Employee asked her name and she stated Subject. Employee stated he did look up Subject on Face Book before Officer arrived on scene and stated he did recognize her from her profile. Officer’s Body Warn Camera was activated during the duration. Driving Under The Influence, 1st: On 0301-2026 at approximately 0240, Officer conducted a traffic stop on a blue in color Toyota Tacoma on Main Street at the intersection of Green Hill road in the Town of Elgin. The vehicle was traveling at 52 mph in a posted 35mph zone. The vehicle had a SC tag. Officer made contact with the driver was identified as Subject by his SCDL. Officer informed Subject the reason for the stop and Officer requested to see his drivers license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Subject only provided me with his drivers license. While Subject was speaking, Officer noticed his speech was slurred which indicated to me that he was possibly intoxicated. Kershaw County Central Dispatch informed me early in my traffic stop that a cashier from CircleK in Elgin that there was a male that came into the store who had trouble speaking due to possibly being intoxicated and the male got into a blue truck and almost struck her vehicle when he left the parking lot. The description dispatch provided Officer and the time frame helped further confirm this was the driver and vehicle in my traffic stop. While Officer was in patrol vehicle attempting to run his license through dispatch, the male exited
his vehicle without Officer asking him to do so. As he was walking toward patrol car, Officer noticed he was not steady on his feet. Officer exited my patrol vehicle and met him at the front of the patrol car. Subject stood at the front of my car and Officer saw he was swaying while trying to stand still. Officer also smelled the odor of alcohol emitting from his breath while speaking. Officer asked Subject if he had been drinking alcohol recently to which he admitted to drinking one beer and had one shot of tequila. Officer then asked if Subject wanted to take a sobriety test due to him showing multiple signs of intoxication. Subject refused to take any field sobriety test. Officer advised Subject that he was under arrest for driving under the influence and directed him to face my patrol vehicle and place his hands behind of his back. Subject complied and Officer was able to apply handcuffs. Officer checked each cuff for proper fit and Officer double locked each cuff. Officer searched Subject for any contraband on his person and did not locate anything of interest. Officer read Subject his Miranda Rights after he was placed in handcuffs. Subject then proceeded to throw up several times on the side of the road which made the odor of alcohol coming from his person even stronger and indicated to me his level of intoxication was high. After Subject finished throwing up, Officer secured him in patrol vehicle with a set belt. Subject’s Sister arrived on scene to take possession of his vehicle with his permission. Per dispatch, Sister’s drivers license status was valid and she took the vehicle. Officer transported Subject to the Kershaw County Detention Center and escorted him to the observation room. Officer read Subject the advisement of implied consent rights form and offered for Subject to provide a breath sample to be tested for alcohol. After the 20 minute observation period, Subject refused to provide a sample. Officer completed a notice of suspension form then escorted Subject into the detention center to be booked in. Officer provided Subject with all copies of the forms and a copy of the ticket for DUI. Officer also gave the jail staff a copy of the ticket. Officer checked Subject’s driving history and he did not have any prior convictions making this a DUI 1st. Officer took Subject’s SC drivers license to be sent back to the DMV. Body and in car camera were activated. 3
Peace Through Scripture In A Troubled World By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
I had originally completed a different article for the March 12 th issue of The Elgin News, but I decided with the events of this past weekend’s America’s Operation Epic Fury in the Middle East to change direction for our readers. We are all witnesses to the missile strikes and bombings in the Holy Land by the media covering firsthand the military action on our TV and computer screens. Last issue, I mentioned that I had kept my 2026 resolution by starting a morning routine reading one Psalm and a short devotional. Experts suggest it takes at least three weeks of consistency to form a habit, which encouraged me to create my own approach. Although rising early was sometimes tough, I made a commitment to begin each day with God. I knew to develop this habit; I would have to create my own plan for what would work for me. It was tough to set an alarm for 30 minutes before I was to crawl out of bed to be somewhere… to start a new day, but this was a pact I made between me and myself. Faithfully I have set the alarm to start my day with the Lord. When I decided to begin this reserved time for “me”, I thought about what I hoped to accomplish during this quiet time. I asked myself the following questions: What are my needs, my learning style, and what did I want to know to help me grow in my faith. Lastly, what are my fears and weaknesses. I chose the Book of Psalms to study first because David, the primary author, is a Biblical hero whose honesty and faith inspire me; sharing David’s story also helped me teach our oldest child Bo when he was past the toddler stage about relatable, flawed characters who rely on their faith. In my early days as a child in Bible school and Sunday
school classes, I read and studied David’s thoughts and words. David knows his Savior and relies on faith. Almost all of our readers can recite David’s 23rd Psalm and are uplifted by the words. After reading Psalms, I plan to study the books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon written by David’s son Solomon who was named by God as the wisest man in the world. By the end of September, I hope to finish The Book of Isaiah, and move into the New Testament Gospels leading up to Christmas. My husband and I often end our days with devotions from The Daily Bread and The Upper Room—books I’ve valued throughout my life. We come together an hour before bedtime and share our thoughts on the day, pray for our concerns for others, and review our plans for the next day. No matter how hectic our days and world become I treasure this time. For Christmas, I bought The Amplified Study Bible for myself after finishing the King James Version in a year. I also plan to keep studying the Bible, including retaking an online course on The Book of Revelation by Reclaiming Hearts Ministries (Camden’s own Denise Goude Jones). Amid recent deadly terror events in our world in the Middle East and in our own country, I find daily peace in scripture. I promised my mother and my grandmother Nanny when I was a working mother that one day I would make the time to be alone with God for more than a quick daily thought for the day. I know they were right. It has made a difference in my life. Esther is one of my favorite heroines in The Bible because she becomes a strong leader even though she is afraid. March 15 marks Purim in Israel, commemorating Esther's role in saving the Jewish people in Persia modern day Iran. One of my favorite quotes which I have referred to many times in my life is “Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Are we divinely appointed to witness and pray for others? During this time of Lent, we should add to our prayer list our leaders, the military, and those in need.
KC Announces Detention Center Director
Director Dr. Jermaine Gordon, a respected leader in the field of corrections and public safety, brings nearly 20 years of experience to his role as Director of the Detention Center. He has held key leadership positions across multiple agencies, including the Florida Department of Corrections, South Carolina Department of Corrections, South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice, Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center and currently Jail Manager Certification Commissioner for the American Jail Association. Dr. Gordon holds a Doctorate in Pastoral Counseling and is credentialed as a Certified Jail Manager (CJM) by the American Jail Association and a Certified Correctional Health Professional (CCHP) by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care. His professional mission bridges public safety and holistic care, focusing on rehabilitation, accountability, and ethical leadership. In addition to his public service, Dr. Gordon is a devoted family man and an ordained Bishop, providing spiritual guidance and mentorship within his community. He often shares, “In both ministry and corrections, the mission is the same: to meet people where they are and help them become who they were meant to be.” "I am remarkably honored and blessed to be the Kershaw County Director for the Detention Center and look forward to working alongside the dedicated team there. Together, I believe we can continue building a safe, professional, and progressive facility that serves both the justice system and the greater community with esteemed integrity." — Dr. Jermaine Gordon 4
Dr. Jermaine Gordon Named Director of Kershaw County Detention Center March 12, 2026
March 12, 2026
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LEHS Journalism Honored at SIPA
Lugoff-Elgin High School (LEHS) journalism students recently attended the Southern Interscholastic Press Association (SIPA) convention. Though SIPA is based at the University of South Carolina, it serves high school journalism programs throughout the southeast, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and others. While at the convention, students attended various breakout sessions to deepen their knowledge of scholastic journalism and also competed to showcase their current skills.
The weekend concluded with an awards ceremony in which LEHS had plenty of opportunities to celebrate. LEHS's Kaleidoscope yearbook received an All-Southern rating, which is the highest possible and placed 2nd overall for Best in Show. Several individuals also won awards: Seniors Tori Potter & Zoei O’Quinn Nichols won third place for theme writing; junior Baya Hardee won third place for people feature writing; Juniors Hannah Flake and Haley Starcher won third place for academic spread design & first place for headline package design. Seniors Karmen Bramlitt, Tori Potter, and Zoei O’Quinn Nichols won
first place for opening spread design; O’Quinn Nichols also placed third for academics writing. Bramlitt, along with junior Charli Small, also won third place for people spread design. Senior Lynleigh Bowen won 3rd place for landscape photography and freshman Grayson Proctor received first place for photo illustration. Both Lynleigh Bown and fellow senior Gauge Tankersley were also named SIPA Yearbook All Stars due to the quality work they have produced throughout the year. LETV, LEHS's student-led weekly broadcast production, received a Merit rating in the evaluation section. This is the first professional evaluation since the revitalization of the program, and the staff is excited for the feedback and the chance to improve. Students placed in different categories for individual competitions: junior Sam Vinson won first place in the Hype Video category; senior Fallyn Murphy and junior Baya Hardee won second place in the Public Service Announcement category; seniors Jada Diaz and Braxton Nelson along with junior Lauren Walters won 2nd place in the Videography category. Diaz and Nelson were also recognized for being SIPA All Stars for all of the work they have accomplished this year for LETV.
Pictured above (front, l-r): Charli Small, Jada Diaz, Payton Mobley, Fallyn Murphy, Braxton Nelson, Jenny Proctor, Yearbook Adviser. (back, l-r): Michael Branham, LETV Adviser; Lauren Walters, Chloe Coleman, Sam Vinson, Lynleigh Bowen, Grayson Proctor, Gauge Tankersley, Braylen Hinton
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March 12, 2026
Dabbs Named Post 17 Teacher of the Year
American Legion Post 17 is proud to announce that Mrs. Stephanie E. Dabbs of Doby's Mill Elementary School has been selected as the 2026 American Legion Post 17 Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Dabbs was recognized for her outstanding dedication to education, her commitment to the success of her students, and the positive impact she continues to have on young people in the Camden community. Through her passion for teaching and her ability to inspire students, she exemplifies the qualities that make an exceptional educator. Throughout her career, Mrs. Dabbs has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering both academic achievement and personal growth in her students. Her classroom is known as a place where students feel encouraged, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential.
The American Legion has long supported programs that promote education, citizenship, and leadership among the nation's youth. The Teacher of the Year Award is presented annually by American Legion posts to recognize educators who go above and beyond in preparing students to become responsible citizens and future leaders. "Mrs. Dabbs represents the very best of our education community," said representatives of American Legion Post 17. "Her dedication to her students and her passion for teaching make her truly deserving of this honor." Post 17 congratulates Mrs. Dabbs on being named the 2026 Teacher of the Year and thanks her for the lasting difference she continues to make in the lives of her students and in the Camden community.
HOMECARE PHARMACY SERVICES Simplified Medication Management Personalized Support from a Health Coach We will be making repairs to the ReStore until sometime in March. A grand reopening date will be shared when we have more information. During this time: WE WILL CONTINUE ACCEPTING DONATIONS AND WILL CONTINUE OUR PICK UP SERVICE IN-PERSON SHOPPING IS UNAVAILABLE DURING CONSTRUCTION
March 12, 2026
kershawhabitat.org | 803.432.8995
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Read Across America 2026
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March 12, 2026
Lugoff Elem. Completes First Archery Season
Congratulations to Lugoff Elementary School on an outstanding first competitive year in Archery! These talented 4th and 5th grade students truly shined, earning 3rd place at the State Qualifying Tournament on February 7. While the team narrowly missed the overall cutoff to advance to the state competition, Lugoff Elementary proudly celebrates three individual qualifiers who represented LES at their very first State Tournament on March 3 at the State FairGrounds. A big congratulations to Ronnie Boykin, Grayson Strong, and Bella Bennett on this incredible achievement! Your hard work, focus, and dedication have made your school and community proud.
St. Matthew Baptist Hosts Heart Health Walk
In recognition of American Heart Health Month, the Health Ministry of St. Matthew Baptist Church partnered with Dr. Brittany Winestock of LAG Heart & Health Wellness Consulting, LLC hosted a Community Heart Health Walk on February 28, 2026, at Scott Park in Camden, South Carolina. The event brought together residents from across Kershaw County with a shared goal of promoting heart health awareness, education, and disease prevention. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for nearly 950,000 deaths in 2025. Locally, the impact is also significant, with 154 heart disease–related deaths reported in Kershaw County in 2024. Vital health statistics further indicate that 1 in 4 Americans will develop heart failure, a serious form of heart disease that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. The Community Heart Health Walk served as an opportunity to not only encourage physical activity but also educate community members about common risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing heart disease. These risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, and Type 2 diabetes, all of which are prevalent yet
largely preventable through lifestyle changes, early screening, and ongoing health education. A powerful highlight of the event was hearing from two community members who shared personal testimonies about their journeys with heart disease. Mrs. Eric Martin and Ms. Sonya Gripper courageously spoke about their experiences, offering inspiration, encouragement, and a reminder of the importance of early awareness and proactive health management. The event reflected the mission of St. Matthew Baptist Church’s Health Ministry, which remains committed to strengthening community engagement through health education and awareness. By integrating faith-based principles with practical health initiatives, the ministry continues to empower community members with knowledge and resources that support healthier lifestyles. Through events like this one St. Matthew Baptist Church hopes to continue fostering opportunities that promote wellness, inspire prevention, and build a healthier future for families throughout Kershaw County.
City of Camden A-Tax Grant Applications
The City of Camden Public Art Committee has released a Call for Artists to submit proposals for a mural at Gallery 537, located at 537 East DeKalb Street, on the exterior wall facing west bound traffic on East DeKalb Street/U.S. Hwy 1, approaching the intersection of Broad Street/U.S. Hwy 521. The proposed theme for this mural, as determined by the owners of Gallery 537 and the Public Art Committe is “More Than a Revolution,” a visual narrative blending the heritage and history of Camden,
along with the strong artistic and cultural contributions of the community, with a highlight on music. Details of the Call for Artists can be found on the Experience Camden SC website. The deadline for submissions is April 8, 2026 at 5:00 PM. Finalist Interviews will be conducted during the Public Art Committee’s regularly scheduled meeting on April 15, 2026 at 9:00 AM. For more information, contact Katharine Spadacenta, Staff Liaison to the Camden Public Art Committee, at kspadacenta@camdensc.org.
803.513.5108 • elgin elginnews@gmail.com news@gmail.com March 12, 2026
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Artist visits LEHS Art Department
A real-world artist, Deborah Life of Columbia, recently visited Lugoff-Elgin High School's Independent Ceramics 2 students for a special meet-and-greet tea. Ms. Life first connected with the LEHS ceramics program last December at the Richland County Public Library during a Holiday Market, where Ceramics 1 students set up and sold their pottery. After purchasing one a piece titled "Hairs" from LEHS senior Bailey Settles, a conversation began and the group discovered that Life is an active professional potter. It quickly became clear that she would be an excellent guest artist for the school's upper-level ceramics students. The student-led tea with Ms. Life was a great success. She shared insights about her background, how she found her path in pottery, the professional groups and activities she participates in, and valuable business advice from her experience as a working artist. Students had the opportunity to share their own artwork, give her a tour of the studio, and engage in meaningful conversation about the creative process. A future visit is already scheduled, when Ms. Life will return to demonstrate some of her techniques and collaborate with students on a hands-on project.
Deborah Life shares a laugh with LEHS senior Addi- Visiting artist Deborah Life offers guidance and Senior Asher Gordon presents a work-in-progress son Cannada during her recent visit with Ceramics professional insight to Ceramics 2 student Jazmin piece to visiting ceramic artist Deborah Life during 2 students. Baczynski during her classroom visit. her time in the LEHS Ceramics 2 studio.
Serving Kershaw County since 1989
1071 Hwy. 1 South, Lugoff Phone: (803) 438-6161 Fax: (803) 438-4743 www.watereetax.com 10
March 12, 2026
LEHS Blue Note Demons Jazz Band
Lugoff-Elgin High School’s Blue Note Demons Jazz Band, under the direction of William Melven and Kevin Flowers, recently performed at the South Carolina Band Directors Association Jazz Performance Assessment, held at Newberry College, for the first time since 1999 and earned a Superior Rating. LEHS senior Walker Little also delivered an outstanding performance with the All-State Jazz Band at Charleston Southern University. “I’m so proud of these kids!” said LEHS band director Travis Kelly following their performances. SHOEMAKE, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 and confidence that will carry them through life. In the coming months, County Council will also begin work on our annual budget and continue discussions about the critical needs facing our community – from infrastructure and public safety to responsible growth and economic development. Those decisions will shape the future of Kershaw County for years to come. But as we look ahead to those conversations, I hope we also remember the lesson behind two simple benches at the entrance to a high school.
March 12, 2026
Communities are strongest when they care for one another, when they remember those who have touched their lives, and when they invest in the young people who will carry the community forward. The students of Lugoff-Elgin High School have shown us exactly what that looks like. And Kershaw County will be better for it. As always, if you have questions or concerns, please text or call me at 803-427-4929, email me at derek.shoemake@kershaw.sc.gov, or follow my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/councilmanshoemake for updates on County business.
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CHS Receives Donation For Special Olympics Team
Pictured above: Camden High School received a donation for their Special Olympics team from four local service organizations: Camden Lions Club, Kiwanis Club of Kershaw County, Lugoff Optimist Club, and Rotary Club of Camden. Each donated $500 for the team's trip to Minnesota this summer to compete with athletes from across the country. Front Row: Assistant Principal Lawrence McCallum; Student Coach Daniella Ramos Rodriguez; Student Athletes Desiree Garrett and Savion Penny; Coach Arisleida de Guzman Back Row: Roger Smoak (Lions Club); Chris Radcliff (Kiwanis Club); Sherri Williams (Lugoff Optimist Club); Matthew Irick (Rotary Club of Camden)
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March 12, 2026
KC Democratic Party Convention
“Serving Columbia Since 1963”
The Kershaw County Democratic Party will host their annual county convention on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 10:00 am to 12 noon at 810 Laurens Street in Camden, South Carolina. Local, state and national issues will be discussed. Elected officials will be present. Coffee and other refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Eve Carlin at (803) 900-1084.
ALL YOU CARE TO EAT! Hours:
Thurs - Sat 11-8 • Sun 11-3 Catering Available Call us at 318-6682 for your catering needs.
4927 Alpine Road, Columbia, SC 29223
803-788-8238
ACT Now Before The Rains Come Down
Vicki’s Attic Springvale Easter Baptist invites you to join them Clothing Giveaway onSpringvale Easter Sunday - April 5, 2026 at 1496
The Community is invited to visit Vicki’s Springvale Road in Lugoff. • SONrise Service - 8:00 am @ Outside Attic for a Clothing Giveaway at: Baptistry • Breakfast - 8:30 - 9:15 am in Fellowship Blaney Baptist Church Hall 1400 Blaney Road in Elgin • Worship - 9:30 am in Sanctuary Two different dates this Spring! *There will be NO Sunday School or Evening Act. Contact the church at (803) 438-1505 with Sat. March 21 | 11:00 am – 1:00 pm questions. Sat. April 18 | 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Highway Pentecostal Hosting Spring Festival
Highway Pentecostal invites you to Spring Festival on Saturday March 28, 2026 from 11 am-1 pm. Join for a gospel presentation, food, games and activities, a bounce house, fun prizes and an egg hunt. Highway is located at 2290 Heath Pond Rd. in Elgin.
Job Fair Coming To WTC on April 10th
25 COLORS TO CHOOSE FROM! ∙ Seamless, 1/2 Round & Copper Gutters ∙ Gutter Clean Outs & Repairs ∙ Gutter Covers ∙ Quality Service to the Midlands for 10 Years actseamlessgutters@gmail.com
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(803) 669-2574
Camden, Lugoff-Elgin and North Central High Schools, along with Kershaw County Adult Education are partnering with Woolard Technology Center to host a Job Fair & Career Expo. The event will be held on Friday, April 10th from 10am-2pm at the Woolard Technology Center. Employers with full time, part-time and summer job opportunities are invited to interact with KCSD students. Employers interested in participating should contact Teri Luther at 803424-2860 or teri.luther@kcsdschools.net.
Blaney Baptist Scholarship Opportunity
Blaney Baptist Church is now accepting applications for its annual Blaney Southern Baptist Scholarship for the 2026-2027 academic year. Any individual attending college or trade school for the first time is eligible to apply. DEADLINE is April 1, 2026 – no exceptions. Detailed information and application process can be found at: Blaneybaptist.com
Schedule Johnny Deal for your family or event photos, and check out his site to access community event photos! 803.427.0883 | jdeal151@yahoo.com
March 12, 2026
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Doby’s Mill Welcomes New Beta Club Members
Doby’s Mill Elementary School proudly inducted 26 new members into the Doby’s Mill Chapter of the National Junior Beta Club during a special ceremony held on Friday, March 6. These students were nominated by their teachers in recognition of their academic excellence, integrity, and outstanding character, qualities that exemplify the high standards of the Beta Club. Principal Sharon Lewis and Beta Club Sponsor Amanda Cook, a 5th grade teacher at Doby’s Mill Elementary, welcomed the new members and their families during the induction ceremony. The event celebrated the students’ achievements and recognized their commitment to leadership, scholarship, character, and service. During the upcoming 2026–2027 school year, the newly inducted Beta Club members will participate in a variety of school and commu-
nity service projects while striving to uphold the organization’s motto, “Let Us Lead by Serving Others.” Through these service-learning opportunities, students will continue to develop leadership skills and demonstrate the importance of giving back to their school and community. DME has a long-standing tradition of excellence in the National Junior Beta Club. Since 2004, more than 800 students have been inducted into the school’s chapter, reflecting the continued dedication of its students, teachers, and staff to academic achievement and positive character. Congratulations to the newest members of the National Junior Beta Club! Their hard work and commitment to service make them outstanding representatives of the DME community.
Kershaw County A-Tax Grant Applications
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.
803.513.5108 • elgin elginnews@gmail.com news@gmail.com 14
March 12, 2026
KCSO Deputies Complete Crisis Negotiation Training
Huge shout out to your very own Kershaw County Deputies, Sergeant Chelsea Cockrell, Corporal Chad Dickerson, and Victims Advocate Lee Thomasson, for successfully completing an intensive Crisis Intervention and De-escalation course hosted by the SC Criminal Justice Academy! This wasn’t your average classroom session. Our deputies dove deep into advanced strategies for handling high-pressure situations, focusing on: • Crisis Intervention: Specialized techniques for supporting individuals experiencing emotional or irrational distress. • Suicide Intervention: Critical skills for life-saving outreach during mental health emergencies. • High-Risk Negotiating: Mastering the art of verbal de-escalation to resolve volatile incidents safely. The curriculum pushed them beyond the books, combining rigorous classroom instruction with live role-playing scenarios and constant performance assessments. This hands-on approach ensures that when the stakes are high, their response is second nature. By honing their active listening and negotiation tactics, Sergeant Chelsea Cockrell, Corporal Chad Dickerson, and Victims Advocate Lee Thomasson are better equipped to protect and serve our community with empathy and professional precision.
Pictured above, left to right: Sergeant Chelsea Cockrell, Victims Advocate Lee Thomasson, and Corporal Chad Dickerson
March 12, 2026
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