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A Note From The Publisher
Letter Submissions
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:
The Elgin News P.O. Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045
By: Cate Lynch Goff
For many years now, The Elgin News has been more than just a newspaper to me. It’s been a way to stay connected to this community, to tell your stories, to celebrate your businesses, and to support the place we all call home.
Because of that, I wanted to share something personal with you. My husband, Hank, and I have started a new venture together called Elevator Branding.
This didn’t come out of nowhere. It grew out of the same work I’ve been doing for years - designing, building, and helping businesses present themselves in a way that reflects who they truly are. Through the newspaper, I’ve had countless conversations with local business owners. You are doing incredible work, but maybe you’ve outgrown your logo, your website no longer represents you, or your message just isn’t as clear as it could be.
That’s where Elevator comes in.
We help businesses build clear, strategic brands through logo design, website design, and ongoing graphic design support. Not just to make things look better, but to make everything work better together.
Hank brings a strong business and analytical background to what we’re building. Where I focus on the creative and brand side, he brings structure, strategy, and long-term thinking and planning. Together, it allows us to approach each business as a whole, not just a project.
What matters most to me is that this is still rooted right here.
Elgin is home. The relationships built through The Elgin News mean everything to me, and that doesn’t change. If anything, this is just another way I can support the businesses and people who have supported me for so many years.
Elevator will serve clients beyond our area, but this community will always be at the heart of it.
If you’re a business owner who feels like you’re ready for the next step, or if you know someone who is, I’d love for you to take a look.
You can learn more in our advertisement on page 6 of this week’s paper.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support of The Elgin News and for being part of this community with me.
LEHS Coaches Honored
Three LEHS coaches have been named Region 5A Coaches of the Year!
Congratulations to:
Coach Ham (Volleyball); Coach Monroe (Wrestling); and Coach Thompson (Girls Basketball).
Your leadership and passion continue to set the standard for excellence at Lugoff-Elgin. The Demon Family is proud of you!
Cate Goff, Publisher (803)
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
Blaney’s Ray Of Sunshine Committee Visits KC Humane Society
Blaney Elementary School’s Ray of Sunshine Committee recently visited the Kershaw County Humane Society to read to dogs. To learn more about the Kershaw County Humane Society, visit them at http://www.kchumanesociety.org
Former LEHS Athletic Director Launching 6th Book
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Saturday, April 18, from 10–12 at Ella’s Boutique 2195 W DeKalb St. Camden, former Lugoff Elgin High School Athletic Director and football coach W. Scott Jones will launch his sixth book, End Road Work.
Rachel Payette of Ella's commented, “Scott's books remind me so much of why our town is amazing. I love to read his books to see where he will take us next. He calls us ‘the fun bunch’ because of our exciting events and Tik Toks.”
Scott said, “By far I have spent more time on this novel than any of my other publications. It is personal as I took a similar cross-country journey with my own great uncle. This is a fictitious story based on real life events. Tim Jackson, a twenty-four-year-old first-year high school teacher and coach in Tallahassee, FL receives an unexpected phone call from his eighty-two- year-old great uncle in California. His uncle has a strange request; he wants Tim to fly to Los Angeles and then drive him with his belongings in a rental truck for a move to Florida. Reluctantly, Tim agrees to do this for a relative he has only met once.”
Scott started working on this novel in 2020, changing it several times before becoming more serious about it in 2022. He continued, “An unforgettable cross-country adventure takes place between a young man who suspects his great uncle is showing signs of dementia and an elderly man desperate to reach Florida in time to visit his only sibling who is nearing her death in a nursing home.”
This intergenerational journey also coincides with the days leading up to the 1989 execution of serial killer Ted Bundy along with the investigation of an unsolved murder in northern Alabama from 1927; an investigation which ends up becoming a complex part of Tim's family history. Tales of murder, romance, infidelity, and inspiration are woven into this novel which offers readers the complexities of redemption
while exploring questions regarding the meaning of life and death.
Early reviews suggest that readers will find this book hard to put down, finishing it quickly and feeling a range of emotions—including laughter, tears, and empathy for the characters.
He released his debut novel, A Storm in the Carolinas, in 2021, followed by The Treasures of a Carolina Summer a year later. In 2024, Scott fulfilled his lifelong goal of becoming a traditionally published author when his third novel, What a Crowd, was released by a regional publisher. This successful sports novel, centered on college football recruiting, reached the top spot as an Amazon Hot New Release in the Young Adult /Football category in early 2024. This book features one of my favorite coaches, Danny Ford of the Clemson Tigers. Not to be out done, Carolina Gamecock fans will also enjoy the mystery surrounding one of their coaches.
In March 2025, Jones published The Stand Up, a cozy mystery novella, and in June 2025, he released his fourth novel, The Coaches' Wives, which received an excellent review from the prestigious Southern Literary Review.
I have enjoyed working with Scott editing his novels, and this has been the one manuscript I have read and reread the most. I tell everyone that End Road Work drew me in from the first chapter.
Scott grew up in a rural area near Sumter, South Carolina. He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and enjoys writing, inspiring young people, storytelling, and having fun. His interests include traveling to those “off the beaten path places” where compelling stories await, and his passion for history shines through in his work. Scott also likes to play golf; however, he admits that he is not a very good golfer.
Ashleigh Rabon said, “Scott and I go back to LEHS. It is an honor to have his books here at Ella’s. When he has his book signings, he brings all the fun with him.”
Scott is married to Bridget, a successfully licensed professional counselor, and together they have three grown children.
I would like to invite our Elgin News readers and those seeking a classic page turner to attend Scott’s book signing at Ella’ s Boutique. The book will be available for purchase for $15.99.
Free Safety Training From Lugoff Fire-Rescue
Lugoff Fire-Rescue (LF-R) is excited to announce an opportunity for our community to get free training in the following topics:
· Bleeding control (Stop the Bleed)
· Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
· LifeVac
· Narcan
LF-R will hold three sessions throughout 2026 at the Lugoff Fire Department Headquarters located at 892 Highway 1 South, Lugoff, SC 29078.
Training Sessions:
· Saturday April 18, 2026 9 am – noon
· Saturday July 18, 2026 9 am – noon
· Saturday October 17, 2026 9 am – noon
Space is limited so please signup using the Google form at the following link (https://bit.ly/lfdcpr). Once a session reaches the maximum enrollment, the form will be updated to only display dates with available slots. This training is made possible by the support of the Health Foundation of Kershaw County and the staff of LF-R. For more details, contact Captain Christi Catoe 803-438-2553.
Hoover Named Director Of KC P+Z
Kershaw County announces the promotion of Zackary Hoover to Director of the Kershaw County Planning and Zoning Department. Zack worked his way up from the role of a Permit Technician to now be selected as the Director!
Zack brings a detailed understanding of the County’s land use policies, development trends, and strategic growth objectives, positioning him to immediately support and advance both the County’s short-range and long-range planning priorities.
In his previous roles as Planning and Development Manager and Senior Planner, he oversaw planning, zoning, land development, and regulatory responsibilities while providing consistent guidance to department and county staff, developers, and the public.
His work in both the Air Force and for Kershaw County has equipped him with the leadership and operational perspective necessary for this role. Together with his staff, he continues advancing the department’s regulatory and permitting efficiency, strengthening its commitment to public service, and ensuring alignment with community goals that shape the county today and into the future.
“I am honored to accept the position of Planning and Zoning Director and grateful for the mentors, colleagues and the Planning and Zoning staff members whose guidance and support helped me reach this point. I look forward to building on our progress and continuing the work of serving the residents of Kershaw County and supporting the county’s growth and future.” – Zack Hoover
KC Fire Service Earns Designation
Kershaw County Fire Service earned its 6th Consecutive Fire Safe Community Designation through Fire Safe South Carolina, a Division of the SC State Fire Marshal's Office.
“We are very proud of the work our men and women have put in to join the other 241 departments across the state who have earned this designation. They have spent countless hours completing classes, installing smoke alarms, and attending community events,” said Matthew Bullard, Fire Chief for Kershaw County Fire Service. “This is all in an effort to better educate the citizens of Kershaw County. While I am extremely proud of our men and women of Kershaw County Fire Service, I would also like to mention that all three Fire agencies in Kershaw County received this designation: Camden Fire Department, Kershaw County Fire Service and Lugoff Fire Rescue.” Battalion Chief Blake Stokes oversees the Community Risk Reduction Division and has a team of paid and volunteer members who help drive this safe community designation.
“I am very proud of the efforts that Battalion Chief Stokes and his team make for Kershaw County to keep this designation continuous, and I fully support all the efforts that the men and women of this department do every day to keep the citizens of Kershaw County Fire Safe.” -- W. Matthew Bullard, Kershaw County Fire Chief
Zack Hoover Director of KC Planning & Zoning
LEHS Concert & Symphonic Bands Excel
The Lugoff-Elgin Concert & Symphonic Bands recently performed at the South Carolina Band Directors Association Concert Performance Assessment at Fort Mill High School. Both groups did an outstanding job and represented the school and band program well. The Concert Band earned a Superior Rating and the Symphonic Band
earned a rating of Superior with Distinction, meaning they received a superior from every judge! Band Director Travis Kelly said, "I’m so unbelievably proud of our bands and their performances! They represented our program so well, not only in the way that they played, but also in the way that they carried themselves throughout the whole process."
News From KC Council
By: Chairman Ben Connell
According to some reports, South Carolina is the fastest growing state in the country and Kershaw County is the 7th fastest growing county in the state. With that growth comes opportunity, concern, and responsibility. As your County Council, we have been working diligently to strike the right balance between preserving the character of our communities and planning responsibly for the future while also supporting the local businesses that have always been the heartbeat of Kershaw County.
In recent weeks, County Council has taken an important step forward by passing first reading of a series of ordinances aimed at managing that growth. These measures are part of a broader “smart growth” approach that reflects months of work, public input, and careful consideration. The County has been evaluating multiple ordinances designed to address infrastructure demands, housing density, and long-term planning as development pressures continue to increase. This effort follows a period in which the County implemented a temporary moratorium on major subdivisions to allow time to study and respond to growth trends. As that moratorium period has concluded, these new ordinances represent a thoughtful path forward, one that allows growth, but in a way that is sustainable and aligned with our community’s values.
Smart growth is not about stopping progress. It is about guiding it. It
means ensuring our roads, schools, infrastructure, emergency services, and natural resources can support new development without overburdening existing residents. It means protecting the rural character that makes Kershaw County special, while still welcoming new families, jobs, and investment into our county.
At the same time, we are also entering one of the most important times of the year in conducting the County’s annual budget process. Over the coming months, we will be working to develop a budget that reflects both fiscal responsibility and the priorities of our citizens.
Public input is not only welcomed, it is essential. I encourage every resident to stay engaged, attend meetings, and share your thoughts as we make decisions that will impact our county for years to come. As we look ahead, I remain confident in Kershaw County’s future. With careful planning, strong community involvement, and a commitment to doing what is right, we can continue to prosper while preserving the qualities that make this county a special place to call home.
Kershaw County is a place defined by its sense of community. That spirit was on full display recently in the achievements of some of our local student-athletes. I want to extend my sincere congratulations to the Stover Middle School wrestling team for winning the state championship, a remarkable accomplishment that reflects dedication, teamwork, and perseverance. Congratulations to the wrestlers, coaches, parents, and supporters!
I also want to recognize the Lugoff-Elgin High School wrestling team for an outstanding season and their impressive run to the state finals. Their success represents the strength of our schools and heightens the pride we all share in the next generation.
Blankets & Bands Returns to Town Green in Camden
The beloved Blankets & Bands free concert series returns to Town Green this spring, bringing live music, community, and warm evenings to Downtown Camden. Performances will take place on Thursdays, April 9 and 23, and May 7 and 21, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs, gather with friends and family, and enjoy an evening of live entertainment in the heart of Camden. Pack a picnic or grab takeout from one of Camden’s local restaurants and make it a night.
The series kicks off on Thursday, April 9, with the smooth sounds of The Esquires, offering a mix of timeless favorites that are sure to get the crowd grooving.
On April 23, Blankets & Bands welcomes Phil James & the Fast Lane to the stage for the first time, delivering high-energy 90s hits filled with fun and nostalgia.
Thursday, May 7 features Nigel Grant & Friends, bringing a lively
mix of funk and feel-good tunes to keep the energy high.
The spring series wraps up on Thursday, May 21, with long-time local favorite Landslide, known for their signature blend of smooth classic rock.
Each concert will feature a student or young musician as the opening act, with the headlining band beginning at 6:30 p.m. Beer and wine are permitted on Town Green during concert hours. Glass containers are not allowed.
In the event of inclement weather, updates and cancellations will be shared on the City’s website and official social media channels.
Blankets & Bands is a partnership between the Downtown Camden Cultural District and the Arts Center of Kershaw County, offering free, live music to the community each spring and fall.
For more information, visit www.experiencecamdensc.com or artscenterkc.org.
Camden High Welcomes Dr. Eric Thomas, Awards $30,000 in Scholarships to Students
Camden High School students were encouraged to pursue excellence and persevere through challenges during a powerful school-wide assembly held Friday, March 27, as world-renowned motivational speaker Eric Thomas delivered an inspiring keynote address in the school’s main gym.
The event, made possible through the support of Camden High School alumni and the Walter and Odessa Allen Legacy Fund, brought students and faculty together for a message centered on discipline, purpose, and opportunity.
A highlight of the morning came with a surprise announcement that left the gym energized: three Camden High School students were each awarded $10,000 scholarships to support their future education.
The scholarships were presented by representatives of the Walter and Odessa Allen Legacy Fund, an organization dedicated to helping students pursue higher education while continuing a legacy of academic excellence and community leadership.
Ten students were selected as finalists for the scholarships, including Tyson Harry, Malaya Whiters, Zaria Jefferson, Bevelan Williams, Laylah Stuckey, Amarah Outen, Janiya Johnson, Ayden Black, Zyla Johnson, and Kaleb Sanders.
From this group, three students were chosen to receive the $10,000 awards: Ayden Black, Janiya Johnson, and Zyla Johnson.
The announcement marked a meaningful moment not only for the recipients but for the entire student body, reinforcing the message that hard work and perseverance can open doors to life-changing opportunities.
School leaders, alumni, and community partners emphasized the importance of investing in local students and creating pathways for success beyond graduation.
The Walter and Odessa Allen Legacy Fund continues to play a vital role in that mission, providing financial support and encouragement to students as they take the next step in their academic journeys.
Job Fair Coming To Sumter County Civic Center
The Santee-Lynches Regional Council of Governments in coordination with SC Works and its business partners will host the Sumter County Job Fair on Wednesday, April 22nd at the Sumter County Civic Center located at 700 W. Liberty Street. From 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. our doors will be open to veterans ONLY. The doors will be open to the general public starting at 9:30 a.m. and the job fair will run until 12:00 pm.
Many employers from the Santee-Lynches region are expected to participate to include but not limited to eVAC Magnetics LLC, Eaton Corporation, SKF USA Inc., Merchant Iron Works, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, Coca-Cola Consolidated and Sandhills Medical. Up to 80 employers are expected to participate in the event.
Human capital (you) is the most important and valuable resource we have in our region, and this event will provide a tremendous opportunity for employers to meet their workforce needs by connecting with people engaged in the pursuit of happiness through productive and meaningful work. We hope to see you there. This event is designed to be a win-win-win event. Employers win by finding great local talent. You win by being empowered to better meet your needs. The community wins, because everyone thrives. Do not miss your opportunity! There is limited space available for additional employers to register. There is no cost to participate.
For more information, please contact Steve Berger at sberger@slcog. org .
Photo courtesy Johnny Deal.
GAL Volunteers Sworn In
The Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program, a division of the South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy, is proud to announce the swearing in of new volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL) in Kershaw County.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Felicia McCreary, Lavonia Johnson-Davis, and Della Robinson took an oath to provide a voice for abused and neglected children involved in family court legal proceedings. The ceremony took place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the Kershaw County Family Court House and was presided over by the Honorable Michael S. Rankin.
These newly appointed GAL volunteers have completed the required training and now join other dedicated Kershaw County community members who are advocating for children in the family court system. Their role is to ensure that every child they serve has a voice and that their best interests are represented before the court.
“We’re always looking for dedicated individuals who are passionate about advocating for children,” says Richard Fowler, regional recruiter, and trainer for the GAL program. “If you are interested in learning how you can change a child’s story, we encourage you to visit gal.sc.gov to learn more.”
Volunteers should be at least 21 years old, have a clean criminal record, no previous DSS case history, and be able to contribute four to five hours a month of their time for a child. Free training is provided to all volunteers. The next training classes begin on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
Newly sworn in Guardian ad Litem volunteers stand with The Honorable Michael S. Rankin following the Kershaw County swearing in ceremony on March 31, 2026. Pictured are Felicia McCreary, Lavonia Johnson-Davis, and Della Robinson.
For more information on becoming a volunteer Guardian ad Litem, contact Richard Fowler at (803) 645-9956 or Richard.Fowler@childadvocate.sc.gov or visit gal.sc.gov.
Wood Announces Bid for KCC Seat 4
I am proud to announce that I am running for Kershaw County Council District 4.
As a partner at Sheheen, Hancock and Godwin, LLP in Camden, SC I have built my career on hard work, sound judgement and a deep commitment to serving others. As an accountant and community member, I understand the importance of strong leadership, integrity and fiscal responsibility.
As the most experienced and most qualified candidate for Kershaw County Council District 4, I am committed to supporting responsible growth across Kershaw County while protecting the values that make our community special. I believe in smart economic development and ensuring progress is both sustainable and beneficial for the families who call District 4 home.
As a devout husband and neighbor who genuinely cares about this community and its future, I am ready to listen, lead and serve with a purpose.
Delana and I are excited to step into this new season and would be so grateful for your prayers, financial support and vote in the June 9, 2026 primary election.
Learn more on Facebook: “Marc Wood for Kershaw County Council District 4
Marc & Delana Wood
LEHS Track & Field News
The Lugoff-Elgin High School Track & Field teams showcased outstanding talent and teamwork at the recent Cavalier Relays and the Beach Run Invitational in Myrtle Beach, competing against 80 total teams.
Team Success
Girls Team: 1st place at both the Cavalier Relays (out of 34 teams) and the Beach Run Invitational (out of 46 teams).
Boys Team: 3rd place at the Cavalier Relays (out of 34 teams) and Top-10 Overall at the Beach Run Invitational, including 4th in relays.
Standout Performances
Aubrey Guy: 100m Champion at Cavalier Relays (12.51), ranked among the state’s top sprinters.
Estella Blackwell (7th grader at Stover Middle School): Set a new school record in the 800m at the Beach Run (2:26.24) and placed 10th in the 1600m.
Westin Halle: Set school records in the mile (4:36.44), 3200m (9:59.03), and steeplechase (6:57.45).
Relay Highlights
Girls 4x100 Relay (Team Members: Teryn Hobson, Trinity Williams, Kennedy Manuel, Aubrey Guy): Cavalier Relays Champions (48.84), Beach Run – new school record (48.14)
Boys 1600 Sprint Medley Relay (Team Members: Keenen Cunningham, Jarkese Grant, Tyler Lewis, Tyler Backman): Cavalier Relays Champions with a new school record (3:37.17)
Mixed 4x400 Relay (F/S Division): 1st place at Beach Run, a new event for South Carolina (Team Members: Danelle Johnson, Peyton Vadnais, Isaiah Johnson, Isabella Robinson)
Field Event Champions
Trinitie Garner: Triple Jump Champion at Cavalier Relays (10.76m).
Sarai Stewart: Long Jump Champion at Beach Run F/S Division (4.99m).
Sarai Stewart, Danelle Johnson, Jadin McNair: Long Jump Relay Champions
Congrats, LEHS Track & Field!
just 0.5 seconds away from beating the current 4x400 Relay school record!
Pictured left to right, Sarai Stewart, Danelle Johnson, and Jadin McNair wear their medals proudly after becoming the Freshman/Sophomore Long Jump Relay champions.
Pictured clockwise from top left:
Coach Jeremy Lane (center) shows off a trophy with the LEHS girls track team after a big win.
Tyler Backman, Jace Coleman, Tyler Lewis, and Peyton Vadnais (left to right) take a break from competing to strike a pose on the field. After running their season best, this team was
Mt. Moriah Celebrating 160th Anniversary
Mt. Moriah Baptist Church will commemorate its 160th Anniversary with a special celebration service on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM at 801 Broad Street in Camden. The public is invited to join this historic occasion.
The service will begin with an Old Timey Quartet Devotion by The Community Brothers of Elgin, SC, followed by a message from guest speaker Rev. Dr. Jamey O. Graham, Pastor of St.
John Baptist Church in Columbia and President of the SC Baptist E & M Convention.
For more information, contact Mt. Moriah Baptist Church at (803) 432-4454 or mtmoriahbaptistchurch@yahoo.com.
Vicki’s Attic Clothing
Giveaway
The Community is invited to visit Vicki’s Attic for a Clothing Giveaway at:
Blaney Baptist Church 1400 Blaney Road in Elgin Sat. April 18 | 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Annual Rotary Wild Game Dinner
The 13th annual Rotary Wild Game Dinner and Auction occurred on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Camden City Arena. Organized by the West Wateree-Lugoff and Camden Rotary clubs, this signature fundraiser continues to provide scholarships for Kershaw County high school seniors pursuing higher education. Thanks to this event and the dedication of its members, they are proud to have contributed more than $525,000 in educational support for over 285 local students. This year’s event was another success, drawing over 400 attendees.
Once again, Lugoff Automotive Group was the Supreme Sponsor, and the Health Services District of Kershaw County, Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union, and MediSave Pharmacy joined as Elite Sponsors. These community leaders were accompanied by numerous new and returning sponsors across the Midlands as Deluxe and Rotarian Sponsors, making this year’s event once again truly remarkable.
Haile Street Grill and B. Colson’s delighted attendees with an incredible selection of sliced venison tenderloins, wild boar loin medallions, sweet Italian venison sausage, spicy wild boar sausage, including
LEHS Artist Selected For ArtFields Jr. Exhibit
Lugoff-Elgin High School proudly celebrates senior Bailey Settles, whose artwork has been selected for inclusion in the highly competitive ArtFields Jr. Art Exhibit in Lake City, South Carolina. This juried exhibition draws submissions from talented students across the state, making Bailey's acceptance a notable achievement.
The ArtFields Jr. Statewide Art Competition is open to South Carolina students in grades 1 through 12, with all entries carefully reviewed by a panel of judges. Selected works will be showcased from April 10 through May 2 as part of the larger ArtFields Festival.
Final judging will occur during the festival, with winners formally recognized at the ArtFields Jr. Awards Ceremony. Families, schools, and community members are encouraged to attend and support these emerging young artists as they share their creativity and talent.
pulled smoked wild boar, smoked marinated quail, pheasant bog, fried catfish nuggets, and more. The dedicated members and friends locally harvested all wild game.
Beyond the delicious meal, guests enjoyed an exciting night of live and silent auctions, raffles featuring local and international vacation package experiences, grills, coolers, artwork by talented local artists, wine, gift cards from area businesses and restaurants, rare bourbons, and much more.
“We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, donors, and the entire community for their unwavering support,” said Chip Hardy, the Wild Game Dinner committee chairman. “Their generosity, along with the hard work of our committee members and volunteers, enables us to award more scholarships each year. This event embodies the Rotary motto of ‘Service Above Self.’”
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates and future events. For questions or media inquiries, please contact Chip Hardy at 803261-3402.
Multiple Arrests in Elgin Drug and Animal Cruelty Investigation
Following a live press briefing held Thursday (April 2nd), the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) released the details regarding a significant narcotics operation and animal rescue in the Elgin area. The press briefing can be viewed on the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
On April 1, 2026, investigators seized a substantial quantity of illegal drugs while executing two drug search warrants at two residences on Dixon Road. While securing the scene, deputies discovered 29 dogs and one pig living in severe conditions of neglect and mistreatment. All animals were immediately seized/rescued and moved to a secure location for medical care and rehabilitation.
Suspects & Charges: KCSO has taken multiple individuals into custody. Charges include, but are not limited to:
• Narcotics: Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID) and trafficking-related offenses.
• Animal Welfare: Multiple counts of animal cruelty and neglect. We are extremely thankful to the Kershaw County Humane Society. They always step up to the call whenever we need this type of assistance. However, they are a non-profit organization that relies heavily on donations to provide this essential assistance. They are currently housing all the animals we rescued on April 1st in an already overcrowded facility. Please consider donating: https://kchumanesociety.org/donations
