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The Elgin News P.O. Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045
From The Mayor's Desk
By: Mayor Melissa Brazell Emmons
Note: From e Mayor’s Desk is submitted by Mayor Melissa Emmons and is not the o cial minutes of the Elgin Town Council.
The Elgin Town Council convened its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., with Mayor Melissa Emmons presiding.
Following the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayor Pro Tem Brad Hanley, Council unanimously approved the minutes from the March 3 and March 10 meetings.
A highlight of the evening was a presentation from Shirley Miles of the Elgin Museum, who provided an update on the museum’s ongoing efforts to preserve and share the town’s history. Following her remarks, Council voted unanimously to approve the installation of window blinds and shading for the museum’s entrance door, improvements aimed at protecting exhibits and enhancing the facility.
During the adoption of the agenda, Council again voted unanimously to proceed with the evening’s business.
The Council reviewed new business license activity for March, including several temporary vendors and service providers operating within the town. No charity event applications, complaints, or public hearing items were reported for the month.
Under old business, Council received the Community Center’s monthly report for March, noting continued use of the facility for local events.
Chief Alan Anders provided an update on the police department, reporting that two new School Resource Officer vehicles have been in service for three weeks. Additionally, the department successfully sold two older vehicles and surplus tires through GovDeals, generating $9,260 in revenue.
Council also approved a $500 contribution to support the Kershaw County Teacher of the Year Gala, recognizing the importance of celebrating excellence in education.
Committee assignments were also announced. The Contract Committee will include Councilwoman Cristy Bradley and Councilwoman Brandy Bradley, while the Finance Committee will consist of Councilwoman Dana Sloan and Mayor Melissa Emmons.
During council briefings, members shared updates and comments. Councilwoman Brandy Bradley expressed appreciation to the Town Clerk for coordinating Municipal Association of South Carolina training opportunities. Councilwoman Dana Sloan noted her enjoyment of the museum presentation and the history it highlighted. Councilman Brad Hanley shared that the Community Center was recently used for a wedding reception, reflecting its value as a community space. Mayor Emmons reminded residents that the May council meeting has been rescheduled to Thursday, May 7, 2026.
At the request of Town Attorney John Wells, Council entered into executive session at 6:44 p.m. to discuss contractual and legal matters, including an item brought forward by Chief Anders. No votes were taken during the session. Council returned to open session at 7:58 p.m.
The meeting adjourned at 7:59 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Elgin Town Council will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
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Blaney First Graders
Tucker (left) and Karter Miedzinski (right) pick strawberries.
More Than ‘Water Under The Bridge...’
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Have you ever wondered about the history of the Wateree River Bridge while crossing from the Lugoff-Elgin area to Camden?
Whether you travel by way of Highway 1 or take Interstate 20 from the Lugoff exit (92) to Camden exit (98), the path you follow is steeped in centuries of history.
Let’s look back using information from Lon Outen at the Camden Archives and his book “Gateway to the Carolinas Backcountry: Camden’s Wateree River Inland Port” and Madge Strickland’s book “A Sandhills Revelation… the history of Blaney -Elgin.”
The route near the Wateree River on Highway 1follows the old Catawba Indian Trading Path, which has remained largely unchanged since 1755. The Catawba tribe originally forged a road through the wilderness, using logs to make passage possible in places where streams were crossed. ‘Tookiedoo’ was settled in the 1600s by the Catawba tribe who built a trading post between the two rivers: the Wateree and the Broad.
I first heard the word’ Tookiedoo’ when I asked one of my students whether he was from Lugoff or Elgin.
“No,” he replied. “I am proud to live in the West Wateree part of the county known as Tookiedoo.”
Camden, founded in 1732, is South Carolina's oldest inland city and represents the start of European settlement in the region. The ScotchIrish settled on both banks of the river and established farms that extended all the way to Elgin.
From 1800 to 1805, Arthur Brown recorded cotton transport across the river in his diary. The area grew quickly as settlers arrived and new communities formed along Rice Springs Road, Wildwood Lane, and Highway 1. In 1861, Unionville (later Union) Baptist Church became Elgin's first organized church near Cureton Grist Mill.
The first toll bridge across the Wateree River was built in 1828 but
was destroyed by a flood in 1831, forcing the community to rely on ferries until a replacement was completed in 1838. That bridge sustained damage in 1854. During the War Between the States, Camden residents set it ablaze to keep the Union soldiers of Gen. Sherman out of Camden; however, the soldiers made their way into Camden anyway. Once again ferries became essential for river crossings.
In 1874, J.B. LaSalle constructed a free wooden bridge, but it was short-lived because it was not safe. The King Bridge Company built an iron toll bridge in 1883, raising it five feet above flood level. However, it was destroyed by a flood in 1908. Ferries once again became necessary until 1910, when Kershaw County borrowed $40,000 to build another bridge across the Wateree. Tragically, after only two days of rain in July 1916, floodwater demolished the new bridge, leaving 19 payments unpaid. The same flood also damaged the railroad trestle and washed out the telegraph and telephone lines between Camden and Richmond, Virginia.
At the time, ferry charges were $0.25 per car and $0.10 per passenger, later increasing to $0.50 per car and $0.05 for a mule team. Ferries played an essential role in transporting goods such as cotton before the arrival of railroads in the 1850s. Over time, as railroads and bridges became more prominent, the importance of river transportation diminished.
The completion of the Wateree Dam on September 14, 1919, at a cost of $6 million, paved the way for the construction of a new bridge, which opened on February 3, 1920. This bridge was built in response to local frustration with frequent tolls. The state purchased the bridge in 1934 for $147,500.
In 1938, a catastrophic fire caused by a fuel truck accident destroyed part of the bridge. A new bridge opened on May 1, 1942, at a cost of $350,000. Twin bridges were later added over the Wateree River on Interstate 20 in 1974. By 1999, renovated concrete bridges allowed traffic to flow smoothly on separate structures, accommodating modern demands and ensuring a safer and more reliable crossing.
About once or twice a week on social media, residents and visitors report heavy traffic, accidents, and congestion on the bridge and Hwy. 1 between11-1 and 3- 5 pm. There are consistent backups. Why?
It is the Wateree River Bridge traffic jam! We need to expect this as Kershaw County continues to grow!
LEHS Principal Announces Retirement
Lugoff-Elgin High School Principal Corey Wright announces plans to retire at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.
Wright retires after serving nearly 33 years as a dedicated educator who embodies the spirit of leadership and teamwork.
“Mr. Wright has been instrumental in driving significant progress during his time at Lugoff-Elgin High School. From enhancing student achievement to overseeing program developments in the arts and athletics, his vision has ensured that LEHS remains a top-notch place to learn. We wish him all the best in his much deserved retirement,” says KCSD Superintendent Dr. Harrison Goodwin.
Under his leadership over the past six years, Lugoff-Elgin High School has received recognition in several areas. The school was accepted into the AP Capstone Diploma Program, developed the SPARK program for rising freshmen, had three students named as finalists for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship, and has been named an Unified Champion School for the duration of his tenure. Additionally, the JROTC program has received several awards (2nd place National Raider competition, Honor Unit of Distinction), and the BETA Club was also named a School of Distinc-
LEHS Principal Corey Wright
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Assisting Other Agency: Reporting officer was dispatched to Englewood Road in reference to assisting the Kershaw County Sheriffs Office with a call regarding EMS requesting assistance in dealing with a possibly intoxicated driver that was recently involved in a traffic collision. Upon arrival, Officer observed a large gray SUV in a ditch in front of the dispatched address. An EMT on scene was able to point Officer to where the driver of the vehicle was located and Officer met with another EMT that was out with the subject. During conversation with the subject, Officer observed that she was slow to respond to questions that were asked, sometimes provided answers that were not related to the question asked and seemed to be very confused about the area that she was in. At one point she stated she was heading to the IGA on Bowen Street when there is no IGA on Bowen Street. Officer was able to confirm with a female EMT on scene as well as the original 911 caller that the observed behavior where consistent with how she had been the entire time they interacted with her. While Officer spoke with the subject about what happened and she stated she was heading from Camden to Lake Carolina to meet with the father of her children, when her newborn baby began crying and she decided to pull over to address the babies needs. The subject stated after she was done checking on the baby she went to make a u-turn on Englewood to head back toward Bowen Street when she ran off into the ditch. The subject also disclosed to Officer that she recently had her depression medication switched and though that it was making her not okay. When Officer asked if she felt as if she should be driving due to her medication making her feel not okay, she stated that she shouldn't because her medication made her feel not right. With this admission, Officer asked why she still got behind the wheel of the vehicle even when she believed that she was not in the right state to drive and she stated “I think I’m superwoman. This is my 5th kid and I just thought that I could do it.”
Shortly after speaking with the subject, Highway Patrol arrived on scene to respond to the collision and Officer gave Trooper Hunter a brief run down of what they observed and their belief that she driver was impaired, due to her medication. Officer stayed on scene and assisted Trooper Hunter until another Trooper was able to arrive on scene to assist.
Civil Disturbance: On 04-15-2026 at approximately 1000, Officer made contact with Complainant at 2469 Main Street (Elgin Town Hall) in the Town of Elgin within the boundaries of Kershaw County S.C. in reference to an incident that occurred at 1621 Smyrna Road (Blaney Elementary School). Complainant explained to me that a black male in a faded red van “Laid on the horn” when he got behind of her in the drop off line at school. Complainant is under the impression that he maybe mad at her specifically for an incident that occurred in 2025 where she filed in line with the normal flow of the drop off line and the guy got angry then because he thought she cut in line. Complainant also explained to me that when they left the property, the male passed her on the double yellow line outside of the town limits and stopped his vehicle in front of her and exited his vehicle. Complainant thought the male wanted to get in an altercation with her. Complainant avoided the male by leaving the area. Complainant made the school aware of the situation and the Elgin Police Department. This report is only to document the incident.
Shoplifting: The reporting officer was dispatched to the incident location (Food Lion) in reference to a shoplifting that already occurred. Upon the reporting officers’ arrival contact was made with the Complainant, employee of the Victim, who advised a white female wearing short shorts and a black tank top departed with a handbag full of items. She stepped out and called her back and she came back inside. Once inside she removed from her bag two Nestle Condensed Milks (14oz), one Betty Crocker cream cheese frosting (16oz), a Betty Crocker carrot cake mix (13.25oz), and two Velveeta Skillets Chicken Bacon Ranch dinners (11.5oz). The Suspect exited the store passing all points of sale without rendering payment before returning to the Complainant. The total value of the merchandise was $23.06. The Suspect then departed on foot and was observed walking all the way to
AutoZone, where it was believed she was picked up by a vehicle. The reporting officer was able to review CCTV footage, which confirmed everything; however, it also revealed the Suspect came into the store and departed one time previously before being caught. She was observed walking to a vehicle, which appeared to be a gray or silver van. She then returned to the store for the second time, which was when the Complainant caught her. The items taken during the first time are unknown at this time. The Complainant advised the CCTV footage would come from corporate. The reporting officers body worn cameras were activated. Still photos were captured and will be added to the report. The Victim does wish to prosecute and have the Suspect trespassed if located.
Suspicious Person: While on routine patrol within the Town of Elgin, County of Kershaw the Officer observed a suspicious person walking along a dark portion of Bowen Street at Emanuel Street, which is surrounded by closed businesses. The person was a white male wearing all black. As the reporting officer went to get out with the person he turned onto Emanuel Street and walked down into a grassy area appearing to avoid the Officer. Subject then continued back across Bowen Street and into the property of Bojangles, which was closed. Subject was explained the reason for making contact and he was immediately defensive. Subject insisted he was doing nothing wrong and he was being unlawfully stopped, which is an unusual reaction for a person upon initial contact. Subject then continued stating that he provided his information to another Officer back in February and how he felt his fourth amendment was being violated. He was informed he was not accused of anything and that contact was being made as he was walking around at night in proximity of closed businesses, which is uncommon in the small Town of Elgin. After several minutes Subject contentiously refused to provide his information and due to being free to leave he departed on foot. Officer found this encounter to very unusual, so he used the information about February and the other Officer Subject mentioned. Officer was able to locate body camera footage for Officer on 2/4/2026 from an encounter at 1232 Rose Street (Dirty Laundry). The person appeared to be one and the same; however, he was much clearer in the footage and had much less of a beard. The name he provided at the time was Subject (DOB 9/25/1985). The reporting officer completed a request for information (RFI) with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division’s Fusion Center providing that information and the still photo. A possible match with facial recognition came back to the same name provided. However, with the assistance of SLED Intelligence Analyst a drivers license out of Virginia was located for Subject, whose photo appeared to be one and the same. Reporting Officer shared this information with other Officer, who will be drafting a warrant for False Information to Police reference 26-0400178. Reporting Officer added the emailed information to other Officer’s case jacket and will attach the documents to both reports. The reporting officer’s body camera was worn.
Assisting Other Agency: The reporting officer heard Central Dispatch give out a 911 hang up at the incident location. Due to the close proximity of the town the reporting officer asked if Kershaw County Deputies would like assistance. They advised they would, so Officers responded to the incident location. Once on scene, Reporting Officers were able to determine the Complainant called 911 due to her son (Suspect) assaulting her. The Complainant advised her son choked her and assaulted her by hitting and kicking her in the head. She denied ever losing consciousness. She advised he also took her black 2006 Honda CRV from the incident location without her permission. All information was relayed to responding deputies. The Complainant was visibly upset and had red marks on her face and neck; however, she denied EMS. Kershaw County Deputies arrived on scene and took over the scene. They were advised of the details obtained by officers and that there was CCTV footage from a Neighbor, who lived in the camper behind the residence. Once no longer needed officers returned to town. The reporting officer’s body worn cameras were activated.
Mt. Moriah Celebrates 160th Anniversary
Mt. Moriah Baptist Church celebrated its 160th Anniversary on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM at 801 Broad Street in Camden.
Founded on January 22, 1866, in the months following the Civil War, Mt. Moriah Baptist Church was organized by 106 formerly en slaved African Americans who stepped for ward in faith to establish their own place of worship. Beginning in a blacksmith shop, the church quickly became a spiritual and cultural cornerstone in the Camden community.
Mt. Moriah was a founding member of the Gethsemane Association—the first Black Baptist association in South Carolina—and was recognized as a “mother church” in the development of the Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Association.
Over 160 years, the church demonstrated remarkable resilience, rebuilding after a dev astating fire in 1956 and continuing ministry through the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time of the celebration, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Roger L. Harris, Mt. Moriah continued to grow in faith, service, and community outreach.
The anniversary celebration included an Old Timey Quartet Devotion by the Community Brothers of Elgin, SC, and a special message from Rev. Dr. Jamey O. Graham, President of the South Carolina Baptist E&M Convention.
LEHS Students Explore The Art Of Quilting
Jess King’s AP 2D Art & Design students are bringing new life to a classic craft by exploring the art of quilting. Quilters of Kershaw County members Teresa Hunger and Mayola Taylor offered their expertise, introducing a new generation of artists to quilting. Over the course of a week, the two experienced quilters shared their knowledge of terminology, tools, and techniques.
King said she invited Hunger and Taylor as guest instructors to introduce her AP students to another element of fine arts that blends creative expression with practical skills. Through their instruction, each student selected fabrics and hand-sewed at least two quilt blocks of varying patterns, such as hourglass or half-square triangle designs. Students then embellished their blocks with embroidery, beading, lace, or other adornments to make their work more unique and personalized. The class worked together to combine individual blocks into a larger quilt, resulting in a collaborative group project. The quilt features work by Noah Bounsavath, Lacey Brazell, Brooke Forté, Olyvia Gordon, Rembert Prichard, Kayla Rocha, Izzy Scott, and Bailey Settles. Hunger and Taylor created the quilt’s center block, featuring a photo of King and her students alongside embroidered text commemorating the course title and date.
The quilt will be on display at the LEHS AP Art Showcase on May 1 from 5:00–8:00 PM at the Elgin Community Center at 2427 Main Street.
Quilters of Kershaw County meetings are held starting at 9:30 AM on the second Monday of the month at the Arts Center of Kershaw County at 810 Lyttleton Street in Camden. The group also has a 6:00 PM “Worker Bees” meeting on the third Thursday of each month at St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church at 914 Market Street in Camden. Community members are welcome to stop by, learn more, and decide if they’d like to join.
LEHS Jr. ROTC Marksmanship Team Update
The Lugoff-Elgin High School Junior ROTC Marksmanship Team delivered an outstanding performance at the American Legion Junior Shooters Competition held on April 11, 2026, earning top honors across every category and position. Competing against Dutch Fork High School, the Lugoff-Elgin team demonstrated exceptional precision, discipline, and consistency throughout the event.
The competition was sponsored by the Larry Jeffers American Legion Post and Unit 195, highlighting the organizations’ continued support of Child & Youth activities and leadership development.
Overall combined score medal winners were Danielle McCormick in first place with an overall score of 492 points with 11 bullseyes (492-11), second place finisher Zachery Fitch with 488 points and 7 bullseyes (488-7) and Stella Stutzman placing third with 464 points and 2 bullseyes (464-2).
In the kneeling position, Lugoff-Elgin shooters secured all top three placements. Individual Standing position awards were presented to First Place finisher Zachary Fitch (163-2), Second Place finisher Danielle McCormick (160-2), and Third Place finisher Stella Stutzman (148-0).
prone position, Individual Prone position awards were presented to First Place finisher Danielle McCormick (185-7), Second Place finisher Lafoy Norris (180-4), and Third Place finisher Stella Stutzman (172-2).
In the standing position, Lugoff-Elgin once again swept the podium. Individual Kneeling position awards were presented to First Place finisher Zachary Fitch (159-3), Second Place finisher Danielle McCormick (147-2), and
vannah Munib, who earned Most Improved Shooter honors with a score of 357 points and 2 bullseyes (357-2X), reflecting significant growth and dedication over the last year. This clean sweep underscores the strength of the Lugoff-Elgin JROTC Marksmanship program and the commitment of its cadets to excellence in competitive shooting. Their performance represents not only individual achievement but also teamwork and rigorous training.
Front row (left to right) American Legion Auxiliary Unit 195 Chaplin, Dana Turner, Danielle McCormick, Sophia Smiley, Payton Picard, Savannah Munib and Camilla Paloblanco. Back row (left to right) - Duane Wauters, Brendon Randall, Stella Stutzman, Lafoy Norris, Zackery Fitch (Team Captain)
Above, from left, overall award winners Stella Stutzman, Danielle McCormick, and Zachary Fitch with AL Post 195 Incoming Commander Claude “Cliff” Turner.
CMC Expands School-Based Acute Care
The Community Medical Clinic of Kershaw County (CMC), a nonprofit organization that provides free healthcare to uninsured individuals in our community, is proud to an nounce the expansion of its School-Based Health Center (SBHC) program. This growth will increase access to acute medical care for students, teachers, and school nurses across the Kershaw County School District.
This expansion has been made possible through continued partnership with the Kershaw County School District and funding support from The Health Services District of Kershaw County, enabling CMC to broaden access to care and expand services to additional schools.
As part of this expansion, the program will now include Camden High School and Lu goff-Elgin High School, ensuring all high school students in the district have access to on-campus care. The program focuses on acute care services, allowing students to receive treatment for common illnesses and minor conditions such as colds, flu, sore throats, ear infections, and other non-emergency health concerns without ever leaving school grounds. This model removes barriers to access while helping keep students in the classroom.
CMC has successfully operated a School-Based Health Center at North Central High School since 2015. The program has helped decrease unexcused absences, increase student seat time, and positively impact overall academic success and graduation rates.
“One of the greatest predictors of long-term health is a high school diploma. Our goal is to bridge the gap by increasing access to medical care across all areas of our county,” said Kimberly Cogdill, FNP, Clinic Director and School-Based Health Center Nurse Practitioner for CMC.
“This expansion represents more than access to healthcare. It represents opportunity,” said Elizabeth Starling, Coordinator for Nursing Services for Kershaw County School District. “By bringing school-based health services to more of our students, we are removing barriers, addressing disparities, and creating healthier pathways for learning. When we invest in student health, we invest in student success.”
In addition to serving students, the expanded program will now also provide care for teachers and school nurses, further supporting the health and well-being of those who serve in local schools each day.
A dedicated CMC nurse practitioner will provide care through both in-person visits and telehealth services, offering assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of acute illnesses. Services are free for students, teachers, and school nurses, regardless of insurance or financial status.
The program also prioritizes communication with families. At every visit, parents are contacted to ensure they remain informed about their student’s care and overall well-being.
The expansion of the School-Based Health Center program marks another step forward in strengthening community health through collaboration, accessibility, and innovation. For more information about the Community Medical Clinic of Kershaw County and its programs, visit www.cmcofkc.org.
LEHS PRINCIPAL, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
tion. The arts programs have thrived, with the band and dance programs receiving state recognition. The school also won the Class 4A State championship in Softball (2021) and has finished as the state runner-up in wrestling four times. There have also been a number of regional championships in several sports.
“I have been extremely blessed to have had the opportunity to serve the Lugoff and Elgin communities and Kershaw County for the past six years,” says Wright.
“I was fortunate to have a staff that cares very deeply for its student body. We are also blessed to have a great student population here at LEHS. To watch these students grow and prosper across the board has been nothing short of inspirational.Our goal at LEHS is to not just for our students to attend high school, we want them to experience high school. We do believe that the offerings here have afforded them that opportunity. I look forward to seeing all of the great success that the
students will surely experience.”
Prior to joining Lugoff-Elgin High School as the principal, Wright served as an assistant principal at White Knoll High School, where he supervised technology integration, operations and student discipline and wellness. Prior to that, he taught business education at Dutch Fork High School and served as the apex site coordinator where he directed the school’s online credit recovery program.
Wright coached the DFHS boys track team that won the AAAA state championship in 2016, and he was named 2016 SCCCTCA, SCACA and NFHS-SC Coach of the Year.
Wright previously taught at Lake Marion High School, Lower Richland High School, AC Flora High School and Westside High School.
He received a bachelor of science degree in business education from SC State University and a master of education degree from the University of South Carolina.
Top: CMC Clinical Director and School-Based Health Center Nurse Practitioner Kimberly Cogdill, FNP. Bottom: Leigh Pate, DNP, FNP-BC with a North Central High student.
KCSD Names Teacher & Principal of The Year
Recently, during the Kershaw County School District Teacher of the Year Recognition Program, Pine Tree Hill Elementary third grade teacher Mary Vannatter was named the 2026 Kershaw County School District Teacher of the Year, while Camden Middle Spanish teacher Marcia Daniels was chosen as first alternate.
All 18 Kershaw County schools selected teachers of the year. Vannatter and Daniels were two of five honor roll teachers selected as finalists for the district award. Other honor roll teachers are Flo Jackson, Blaney Elementary; Abigail Baytes Sheorn, Camden High; and Suzanna Hall, North Central High.
An educator for seven years, Vannatter is known for fostering an atmosphere where students don't just meet expectations — they excel, grow, and thrive. She sees the potential in every student before they see it in themselves, creating a foundation of trust that allows them to reach for the stars. While she is incredibly humble and consistently shies away from notoriety, her influence speaks louder than any public accolade ever could. She is an educator who quietly excels behind the scenes, content to let her students’ achievements take the spotlight.
She says, “I’m incredibly honored and honestly so grateful to be named the Kershaw County School District Teacher of the Year. I feel really blessed to do this work every day alongside such amazing colleagues and to serve students and families who inspire me more than they probably realize. Growing up in a military family, I didn’t often have the chance to feel rooted in one place, so being embraced by this community has meant more to me than I can fully express. This recognition means a lot, but it truly reflects the entire community I’m so lucky to be a part of.”
Vannatter earned a bachelor of arts degree in early childhood education from the University of South Carolina Upstate and a master of arts in reading education degree from Grand Canyon University.
Her principal Markieta Barber says, “Mary Vannatter stands apart not just for what her students achieve, but for how they grow, believe, and thrive under her care. Year after year, her academic results speak for themselves with exceptional growth across all performance areas. But her magic goes far beyond data. She builds authentic, joyful relationships with students whether she is playing kickball at recess, cheering them on at after school events, or turning everyday lessons into creative, engaging lessons. Her classroom is a place where learning feels fun, students feel seen, and excellence is the standard. We are truly blessed to have her as a Bullpup and now as the District Teacher of the Year!”
Also honored during the evening’s celebration was Camden High School Mathematics Teacher Rasheeda Edwards who was named as the district’s Outstanding First Year Teacher.
The judges were impressed with Mrs. Edwards saying, “this teacher requires high level thinking skills of all students. She notices each student and makes sure they each are actively engaged in class. She left a successful career to pursue a dream of helping others.”
Other Outstanding First Year Teacher honor roll finalists are Linden Carbaugh, Lugoff-Elgin High School; Kristen Franceschi, Jackson School; and Shawn Tarte, Camden High School.
Pine Tree Hill Elementary Principal Markieta Barber was recognized as the district’s 2026 Principal of the Year.
"Mrs. Barber has a remarkable gift for balancing high academic standards with a genuine, visible love for her students," said Superintendent Dr. Harrison Goodwin. "She doesn’t just manage a school, she has intentionally built a culture where students, staff, and families feel a true sense of belonging. Her leadership is the reason Pine Tree Hill is such a vibrant place to learn."
A 2004 graduate of Camden High School, Barber is proud to be a product of the Kershaw County School District. Her journey in education spans 18 years of dedicated service, beginning in the classroom as a kindergarten and third-grade teacher.
Since taking the helm at Pine Tree Hill, Mrs. Barber has spearheaded a powerful Leader in Me implementation, empowering students to take ownership of their learning and leadership. Her nominations highlighted her "forward-thinking, evidence-aligned practices," leading to rigorous instruction, data-driven student growth and authentic community connections.
All of the 2026 local school teachers of the year were honored at the celebration. They are:
Blaney Elementary School – Flo Jackson
Camden Elementary School – Haley Anderson
Camden High School – Abigail B. Sheorn
Camden Middle School – Marcia Daniels
Continuous Learning Center – Amanda Altman
Doby’s Mill Elementary School – Megan Capozziello
Jackson School – Taylor Cotton
Lugoff Elementary School – Ashly Haigh
Lugoff-Elgin High School – Gracie Buring
Lugoff-Elgin Middle School – Sharon Delaney
Midway Elementary School – Dr. Crystal McInvaille
North Central Elementary School – Lexe Sims
North Central High School – Suzanna Hall
North Central Middle School – Valarie Dixon
Pine Tree Hill Elementary School – Mary Vannatter
Stover Middle School – Cassandra Mickle
Wateree Elementary School – Shannan Bright
Woolard Technology Center – Mary Kathryn Shores
During the celebration, the Kershaw County Teacher Forum also awarded the $1,500 Mary Ann Blaskowitz Education Scholarship to Lugoff-Elgin High School senior Addison Greenwood.
This scholarship is named for Teacher Forum Member Mary Ann Blaskowitz, who was the first Kershaw County Teacher of the Year to be named South Carolina Teacher of the Year.
Photos courtesy Johnny Deal, BowTie Photography.
2026 Miss Stover Pageant
Queens were crowned and award winners announced during Miss
and
From left;
Stover 2026.
Aria Stallworth, Miss Congeniality; Aleyna Acosta, Miss Entrepreneur; Ariel Bennett, Miss Fan Favorite; Parker Budd, Miss Stover 2026, also Best Evening Gown, Miss Photogenic, and Miss Spirit Queen; Chaniece Townsend, Miss Eighth Grade; Makaylee Harkness, Miss Seventh Grade;
Emma Vangorder, Miss Sixth Grade. Photos courtesy BowTie Photography.
Elgin VFW Vendor Event KC Democratic Party Forum
Join the Elgin VFW on May 9, 2026 at Elgin VFW 2464 Bowen Street, 8am to 12pm for a local Vendor's Event. Outdoor space rental is $20, and is open to all vendors and the public. Come on out and support your local vendors. Contact the VFW at vfwpost11079@gmail. com or on Facebook to sign up for a space.
Kershaw County Democratic Party invites you to a Candidate Forum on April 30th at 6:00 pm at the Camden Vitality Center, 906 Lyttleton Street, Camden, SC.
Be an informed voter this Primary Season! Come meet 2026 Primary Democrat candidates who will share their platforms and answer questions about the issues that matter to the voters of Kershaw County. Vote with confidence when choosing forward-looking leaders who will best fill the seats that represent you. For information, please contact kershawscdems@gmail.com.
Cleveland School Fire Anniversary
In memory of the 103rd anniversary of the tragic Cleveland School Fire, the Cleveland School Memorial Foundation (CSMF) along with Beulah Christian Church invites the public to attend a special memorial ceremony. This ceremony will take place on Sunday May 17, 2026 beginning at 09:00 am at the Beulah Christian Church, located at 820 Beulah Church Road, Camden, SC 29020.
The Cleveland School Fire impacted many families in what is now known as the Charlotte-Thompson area of Kershaw County, just a few miles outside of Camden, SC. With nearly 300 in attendance that night, 77 lives were lost and many were injured while attempting to escape the devastating fire that occurred on May 17, 1923. The fire prompted life-saving changes to local, state, and national fire codes to help ensure a loss of this magnitude would not occur again.
The CSMF seeks to keep the memory alive and maintain both the memorial site at 410 Cleveland School Road, Camden and the mass burial site at Beulah Christian Church. For more information, visit the CSMF website at www.clevelandschoolsc.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/clevelandschoolsc
Camden Receives Credit Rating Upgrade
Camden has received a credit rating upgrade from Moody’s Ratings, reflecting the City’s continued financial strength, disciplined management, and steady economic growth.
In practical terms, the upgrade means Camden is now viewed as a lower-risk borrower. As a result, the City is positioned to secure lower interest rates when financing capital projects, reducing long-term costs and delivering significant savings for taxpayers.
Moody’s upgraded the City’s issuer and combined utility revenue bond ratings from A1 to Aa3. The agency also assigned an initial A1 rating to the City’s Installment Purchase Revenue Bonds associated with City Hall and
public safety projects. This Aa3 rating places Camden in the upper tier of municipal credit ratings and reflects the City’s strong financial position and stability.
The improved rating may also reduce or eliminate the need for bond insurance, lowering transaction and issuance costs. It can also strengthen investor confidence, increasing demand for Camden’s bonds, helping the City achieve more favorable financing terms.
City Council continues to invest in critical infrastructure, public safety, and long-term community needs while maintaining sound financial practices that support sustainable growth.
Genova Family Karate Hosts Battle of Columbia
On Saturday, April 18th, Genova Family Karate hosted its annual Battle of Columbia Karate Tourna ment! Exactly 100 students competed in Forms, Flag Sparring, Point Sparring, Grappling, and Bo Staffs. The overwhelming support Genova Family Karate received from community sponsors helped to make
Funderburk Named City of Camden Prosecutor
Camden is pleased to announce the appointment of Laurie Slade Funderburk as its new City Prosecutor.
“We are proud to have an accomplished professional like Laurie Funderburk assisting our police officers in court,” said Vincent Sheheen. “Her experience and dedication will strengthen our commitment to justice and public safety.”
“I am honored by this appointment and the opportunity to serve my hometown,” said Funderburk. “I look forward to working with law enforcement, City leaders, and residents to support a safe and strong community.”
In her role, Funderburk will represent the City in municipal court, working closely with law enforcement to prosecute cases and support the administration of justice.
With a lifelong connection to Camden, Funderburk brings a deep background in law and public service to her role as City Prosecutor. She served 16 years in the SC House of Representatives, where she was a member of the Judiciary and Ethics Committees and served as Vice-Chair of the Oversight Committee.
A graduate of the USC School of Law, Funderburk also served as a law clerk for the SC Senate Judiciary Committee. Most recently, she served as State Executive Director for the SC Farm Service Agency.
She has since reestablished her law firm, Funderburk Law, LLC, where her practice focuses on estate plan ning. Her extensive legal experience and commitment to public service position her well to support the City’s ongoing efforts to uphold public safety and accountability.
Laurie Slade Funderburk
“Screw Bandit” Sentenced
A Columbia man, Michael David Branham, has been ordered to pay nearly $15,000 in restitution after a months-long campaign of sabotaging roads in Elgin.
The Crimes: Between July 2025 and January 2026, Branham scattered screws and nails along Watts Hill Road and Donna Drive. His primary motive was targeting an ex-girlfriend who lived in the area, though his actions ultimately impacted dozens of local residents.
The Investigation: Deputies used phone tracking to place Branham at the scene of the crimes. As an electrician, Branham had easy access to the industrial hardware used in the sabotage.
The Sentence: On April 2, 2026, Branham pleaded guilty to stalking, malicious injury to personal property, and aggravated breach of peace. A judge handed down a suspended five-year prison sentence, placing him on five years of probation.
Victim Impact: Branham must pay $14,965.59 to cover the repair costs for 41 different victims.
Stage 1 Drought Declared, City Urges Voluntary Water Conservation
The City of Camden is advising residents that the Catawba-Wateree River Basin has been placed in Stage 1 drought conditions following an extended period of dry weather across the region. The region is currently experiencing its eighth consecutive month of below-average rainfall, and water levels in many of the smaller streams that feed the basin are lower than normal.
The designation was issued by the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group (CW-DMAG) under its Low Inflow Protocol (LIP). Stage 1 is the second of five drought stages outlined in the protocol and requests voluntary water conservation across the basin, which stretches from the North Carolina mountains to the Wateree Dam.
As a water provider within the basin, the City of Camden is asking customers to voluntarily eliminate non-essential water use and limit discretionary uses such as lawn irrigation to no more than twice per week during off-peak hours (10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.). In accordance with City ordinance, the goal during Stage 1 is to achieve a 3–5 percent reduction in overall water use.
“As a member of the Catawba-Wateree Water Management Group,
the City of Camden aims to raise awareness about increased drought conditions and help promote responsible water use during this time of extreme dry conditions in the entire drainage basin,” said Jack Thornsberry, Director of Utilities and Public Works for the City of Camden. “By starting volunteer conservation efforts early, we can help protect our collective water resources should the drought conditions continue into the summer.”
Duke Energy, which manages the lakes in the basin, has begun making adjustments to help conserve water levels, including releasing less water downstream and limiting certain recreational flows, while lake users may also notice increased monitoring at public boating access areas, with temporary closures possible if water levels continue to decline.
The City of Camden, along with CW-DMAG partners, will continue monitoring conditions and coordinating efforts to protect the shared water supply and the health of the Catawba-Wateree River Basin.
Residents with questions about water use or conservation practices may contact the City of Camden Public Works Department at 803432-2421.
