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The Elgin News P.O. Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045
By: Councilman Derek Shoemake
As your representative on Kershaw County Council, I want to share an update on two important efforts underway - our upcoming budget and new measures to manage the county's rapid growth.
Every year around this time, Council begins the hard work of putting together a budget for the coming fiscal year. That process is well underway, and I want you to know the priorities guiding our decisions. We are committed to drafting a budget that protects taxpayers while still providing the services and infrastructure improvements our growing community needs. That means being responsible with every dollar, looking for efficiencies, and making sure investments go where they matter most - roads, public safety, schools, and the quality of life that makes Kershaw County a great place to live. We will have more to share as the process moves forward, and I encourage everyone to attend public budget hearings when they are scheduled.
The second update concerns something many of you have been asking about: what is the county doing about growth?
The numbers speak for themselves. Kershaw County's population has grown nearly 12 percent since 2020 - double our growth rate from the entire prior decade. We are the fastest-growing inland county in the fastest-growing state in the nation. That growth brings opportunity, but it also strains our roads, our schools, and our emergency services. We have to get ahead of it, and that's exactly what our Smart Growth ordinances are designed to do.
The centerpiece is a new Permit Allocation System. Here is how it works. We set a cap on the total number of residential building permits issued over each six-month period, divided among housing types: single-family homes in major subdivisions, single-family homes and mobile homes outside major subdivisions, multi-family units, and accessory dwelling units. Permits are released twice a year, in May and November, on a first-come, first-served basis within each category.
This is a critical point: large developers cannot take permits away from local builders and individual homeowners. Each category has its own allotment. A family building a home on their own land is not competing with a big subdivision for permits. No single subdivision can claim more than 25 percent of the available permits in its category. Renovations and rebuilds are completely exempt, and developers who want to negotiate a Planned Development District with Council can still do so.
The system phases in gradually - no reduction in the first six months, then a 15 percent reduction, and eventually a 20 percent reduction in year two. Council can evaluate the program every six months, and the entire system sunsets after two years unless we vote to renew it. We can adjust the numbers at every review if the data tells us we should.
Beyond the permit system, we have also adopted ordinances addressing subdivision design standards, open space requirements, sidewalk requirements, off-street parking, emergency services access, and stronger financial guarantees from developers. Together, these measures raise the bar for new development without shutting the door on responsible growth.
I want to be clear about what this is and what it is not. This is a plan to protect Kershaw
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 SEE SHOEMAKE, PAGE 13 >>
CMS Students Win KC 250 Poster Contest
The Kershaw County 250 Art Poster Contest brought together talented middle school students from across the community to showcase their artistic interpretations of “Kershaw County’s Role in the American Revolution.”
Open to all sixth through eighth grade students in public, private, parochial, and homeschool settings, the contest invited young artists to explore local history through original, hand-created works. The result was a powerful collection of pieces reflecting the stories, sacrifices, and significance of the Revolutionary War in Kershaw County.
The contest was made possible through a collaborative effort among the Kershaw County 250 Committee, Hobkirk Hill Chapter NSDAR, Revolutionary War Visitors Center, the City of Camden, and community partners committed to preserving and celebrating the area’s Revolutionary War heritage.
Top honors were awarded to two outstanding students from Camden Middle School:
• 1st Place: “Ghost Town” (Evacuation Day/Burning of Camden, May 10, 1781) by Eilee Clapp, 8th Grade — $200 prize
• 2nd Place: “The Swamp Fox” (Gen. Francis Marion) by Kirsten Bowers, 8th Grade — $100 prize
Both students will be recognized at the Hobkirk Hill Chapter DAR Awards Ceremony on May 12 at 3:30 p.m. at the Revolutionary War Visitors Center. Families, teachers, and community members are invited to attend and celebrate their achievements.
Eilee Clapp’s first-place artwork will be displayed at the Revolutionary War Visitors Center Museum as part of Camden’s America 250
Celebration through July 4, 2026, offering visitors an opportunity to experience local history through the lens of student creativity.
“A heartfelt thank you to all participating students, teachers, and our panel of judges for making this contest such a success. Your creativity helps bring history to life,” said Project Organizer Kathryn Watkins.
The Revolutionary War Visitors Center, located at 212 Broad Street in Camden, is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. The winning artwork will be displayed in the Public House.
Above, (l to r): Kirsten Bowers and Eilee Clapp, both 8th graders at Camden Middle School.
Happy Mother’s Day From The Elgin News
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
What is Mother's Day? It is when those who love their mothers tell her they are glad it's her day. What is Grandmother's Day? It is a day that is shared with grandchildren who think it's their day, and it is because if there were no grandmothers there could be no grandchildren. Happy Mother's Day on your special day and throughout the year we wish you happiness, and do not want you to shed a tear. Your days are also special because you are so dear, and that is why we want to share every day with you throughout the year.
I discovered this poem among the letters I sent to my mother during college and early adulthood. Because long-distance calls were expensive, I made it a point to write to her often and call weekly.
This article made me recall the year 2002, when my 86-year-old mother was interviewed for the Library of Congress Living Veterans History Project.
In this interview, my mother spoke for two hours about her experiences as a World War II army nurse. Using her Lowcountry dialect, she described growing up in Pinewood, South Carolina, graduating high school as salutatorian in 1933, completing three years of nurses’ training, passing her state board, and moving to Charleston in 1936 to work in a hospital.
She worked there for four years during the Depression, earning $50 a month plus room and board. She lived in converted attic quarters with ten other single nurses.
December 7, 1941, while on duty, she heard President Franklin Roosevelt’s words over a patient’s radio: “This day will live in infamy. America is at war.”
In the wake of the attack on Pearl Harbor, nurses were desperately needed. Men were volunteering in large numbers, but joining the army took time. My mother had three younger brothers—one who
joined the Navy and two who enlisted in the Army. Two other sisters remained at home. My mother decided to leave Charleston and work at the Veterans Hospital in Columbia.
Many patients were World War I veterans who had suffered injuries that affected them as they aged. There were also patients who had been in England, France, and Germany and were brought back to the United States. The more she spoke with these soldiers, the more determined she became to join the Army Nurse Corps, so she did.
My mother began six weeks of basic training at Fort Rucker, Alabama. Each day began with 45 minutes of physical exercise, including one day spent marching five miles with a backpack. The trainees wore fatigues all day and attended eight-hour classes. Upon completing her training, she became a second lieutenant and was assigned to Moore General Hospital near Asheville, North Carolina.
Most of her patients from the Pacific suffered severe skin infections due to constant exposure to damp conditions and frequent bug bites. While working at hospitals in Asheville and Fort Rucker, she also cared for German prisoners of war who spoke little English.
World War II ended in September 1945, and my mother left the army the following June. Back in Pinewood, she met my father, a high school teacher and coach, through her brother. They married after a whirlwind courtship, and I was born ten months later, followed by my brother Gregg three years after and my sister Martha five years later. After my father’s heart attack when I was five, we moved to his mother’s home in Bishopville so he could recuperate. My mother worked as a nurse, and I learned firsthand what it meant to have a working mother.
She stayed strong when my father's died unexpectedly when I was 13. She later became director of nurses at the hospital in Bishopville, retired at 62, remained active in our community and church, joined a prayer group, and drove until 92. She was born in 1916 and was considered a member of “The Greatest Generation.”
I truly grasped motherhood once I became a mother. If your mother is still with you, celebrate with her and other special moms this Sunday, May 10. Share your Mother's Day memories with your family.
Happy Mothers and Grandmothers Day from The Elgin News!
KC Library Encourages Summer Reading
In a bold attempt to pry teenagers away from their phones, the Kershaw County Library has officially launched its Teen Summer Reading Challenge. The library's master plan is shockingly simple: read just three books this summer and walk away with free movie tickets to Camden’s Little Theater.
Participants can track down an old-fashioned paper book by visiting a local branch or scouring the online catalog to have specific titles delivered with the click of a button. For those who absolutely refuse to let go of their devices, a library card also unlocks free access to thousands of ebooks and audiobooks through the Libby and hoopla apps. Yes, reading on a screen still counts.
To ensure local teens have the chance to socialize in the real world, the library is also hosting a series of exclusive, teen-only events this June:
Tabletop Role-Playing Games (TTRPG) Night
What: A crash course in Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and indie one-shots followed by live gameplay. There will be free pizza, because the library knows exactly how to get teenagers to show up. Register at markw@kershawcountylibrary.org
When: Friday, June 5 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: Camden Library, 1304 Broad Street
Adulting Fair
What: A drop-in event featuring local experts offering advice on the transition to adulthood—think car maintenance, money management, and job hunting. Prizes will be awarded to those brave enough to contemplate their future responsibilities.
When: Monday, June 8 | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Camden Library, 1304 Broad Street
Ahhh, Nature! Guided Walk
What: Disconnect from the Wi-Fi and explore 800 acres of preserved wilderness at the Nature as Teacher Preserve. Register at jillf@ kershawcountylibrary.org
When: Wednesday, June 24 | 9:00 AM
Where: Nature As Teacher, 247 Chestnut Ferry Road
For more information on these events or to join the challenge, visit the Kershaw County Library website or stop by any location, including the Camden, Elgin, or Bethune branches.
Visit https://www.kershawcountylibrary.org/ for more info.
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
On 04-19-2026, around 2000, Officer was dispatched to Family Dollar for Shoplifting. Once Officer arrived on scene, I made contact with an Employee who first noticed the unknown white male subject and two black females that were with him. Employee stated the Manager was on her way to talk to Officer. Manager showed Officer the security video footage of when the unknown subject and two unknown females entered and left Family Dollar. On the security camera the subject and two unknown females arrived around 1946 and left before Officer arrived around 19:54. On the security camera footage, the unknown subject has the bag of Taki Chips in his hands and he passes all points of sales without rendering payment to the business (Family Dollar). Also, on the security camera footage one of the unknown black females was laughing while the unknown male was passing through the security detectors. Manager stated one of the unknown black females stated could she pay for the Taki Chips to Employee but Employee informed her that the police was already called. Manager stated the Taki Chips cost around $5.00. Officer’s body worn camera was activated upon arrival and while talking to Employee and Manager.
Assault 3rd and Harassment: On 04-30-2026 Officer was dispatched to Jeffers Circle, in the Town of Elgin regarding an Assault. Upon arriving, Officer made contact with the Complainant (Mom) who stated her Daughter and Subject got into a physical altercation where her Daughter had teeth marks on her left arms bicep, marks on the right side of her face, and a bruise underneath her left eye from the altercation. Daughter’s Ex-Boyfriend brought Subject to Jeffers Circle address so there would be an altercation with Daughter. Mom told Ex-Boyfriend and Subject to leave before the physical altercation happened. Both Daughter and Subject are 16 years old. Daughter attends Airport High School and Subject attends Lugoff Elgin High School. While both Daughter and Subject were fighting, Ex-Boyfriend moved towards Daughter, but the Mom pushed then slapped him so he would not hurt/harm Daughter. In a video from the Ring doorbell camera, Ex-Boyfriend lifts his shirt up and what looks like a magazine was in his pants. Ex-Boyfriend and Subject left the scene before Officer arrived. Both Mom and Daugther came to Town Hall and filled out Statement Forms. Mom stated she wanted Ex-Boyfriend to leave her Daughter alone and to be trespassed from Jeffers Circle address. Contact was made with Ex-Boyfriend who arrived at Town Hall and was served with the Trespass Notice for Jeffers Circle address. Ex-Boyfriend was informed that if he showed back up at Jeffers Circle address he would be arrested. Ex-Boyfriend was given his paperwork of the Trespass Notice.
Shoplifting: Officer was dispatched to the location, 2530 Main Street (Family Dollar) which is within the Town limits of Elgin, in reference to a shoplifting that had already occurred. Upon arrival on scene, Officer made contact with the manager who stated that she had CCTV footage of a woman entering the location before leaving with at least approximately $15 worth of merchandise without attempting to render payment. Officer was able to review CCTV footage while on scene. CCTV footage shows the subject, an unknown black woman with shoulder length black hair wearing a green jacket, blue shirt, khaki capris and no shoes can be seen walking up to an outdoor display rack of merchandise marked 50% off at approximately 18:41. The subject is off camera for a moment or so then reappears with an arm full of clothing from the rack. The subject enters the location and makes her way to the cosmetics near the door where she grabs an item, conceals it on her person before she moves toward the exit. On the way out the door, the subject grabs an oven mitt set that was sitting on top of a cart near the exit. After grab-
bing this item, the subject walks out the front door and back to the 50% off clothing rack before she leaves the location on foot heading towards the IGA. The subject does not make any attempts to render payment for the merchandise that she had in her possession, depriving the business of a minimum of $15 of value for the items. A more accurate total will be provided as soon as the total number of items removed from the rack outside the storefront can be added up. The business does wish to press charges on the individual if she is identified and express their desire to also have the subject trespassed from the location.
Shoplifting: On 04-19-2026, Officer was dispatched to Food Lion, in the Town of Elgin within Kershaw County S.C. for a Shoplifting. Once Officer arrived on scene, he made contact with the Supervisor who stated a white female had come into Food Lion and bought $96.84 worth of different items. Supervisor stated the unknown white female tried paying, could only pay part, but then had to void due to the system. The unknown subject passed all points of sales without confirming the payment was complete for all the items. Supervisor showed me on the security video cameras the unknown white female was dropped off by a white male with that looks like he has long gray hair. The video footage is not clear enough to see the unknown white males face. The unknown white male parked in the Food Lion parking lot. The car the white male is driving looks like a white Chrysler with a SC Tag with writing in the back glass about a “Marine”. Supervisor was unable to see the full details on the tag. On the passenger side of the white Chrysler windows it looks like a saying stating “Please Pray For Our Troops”. Supervisor stated on the security video footage the unknown subjects drive towards Town Hall and turn left. Supervisor stated the final cost the unknown white female subject owes on the stolen items is $76.00. Officer’s body worn camera was activated during this call for service
Assisting Other Agency: Officer was requested by CPL Martin with the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office to assist them in locating two individuals that had fled after breaking into auto body shop on Whitting Way. There was a K-9 track in progress and they were heading in the direction of Greenhill Road, so Deputies were requesting Officer to respond to the area in case the suspects attempted to cross Greenhill Road. Officer arrived to the dirt side of Greenhill Road and assisted Highway Patrol CPL White in circulating the area while Deputies were in the wood line tracking the suspects. While Officer was circulating the area, Deputies advised that they had one suspect in custody, however the other entered a backyard on Greenhill Road and provided a description of the home that could be seen from the drone operated by LT. McCaskill. Officer as well as CPL White meet with two other Kershaw County Deputies outside of Greenhill Road address before Officer and CPL White began searching the wood line of a neighboring property. As Officer and CPL White reached a section of the wood line that was too thick for them to enter, they heard Deputies advising the subject, who had been found atop a single wide trailer, to come down with his hands up. Shorty after they began giving commands, Deputies advised that they had the second and final suspect in custody. Once the suspect was transported out of the woods, he was temporarily placed in the rear of Officer’s patrol vehicle until Deputies could get back to their vehicles and meet R/O where the subject was apprehended. Once other patrol vehicles were brought to where the suspect had been apprehended, SGT Tate took custody of the suspect and placed him in the rear of his patrol vehicle. R/O confirmed that no further assistance was needed on scene and cleared from the location before heading back to the Town limits.
2026 Special Olympics Held At CMA
Athletes from across Kershaw County came together April 24 at Camden Military Academy for the annual Special Olympics, celebrating determination, sportsmanship, and the spirit of community. Schools sent athletes off in style with cheers, posters and parades, and the bus route to CMA was also filled with celebration.
Photos courtesy Kershaw County School District and CMA.
Community Medical Clinic Hosts Clinic Classic
The Clinic Classic, traditionally held on the last Saturday in April, is one of the year's biggest fundraisers for the Community Medical Clinic in Camden. Runners and walkers gathered on Saturday, April 25th in Camden to support CMC’s mission to provide medical care and connect resources to achieve a healthier Kershaw County.
Photos courtesy Photography by Julie JP and Coach S Photography.
May Events at Kershaw County Library
Weekly Events
Weekly on Wednesdays
10:30 AM – 11:15 AM in Camden
Baby Storytime: A fun time of stories, songs and movement for the very young. For ages 0-2.
Weekly on Wednesdays
11:30 AM – 12 PM in Camden
Get Set to Read Storytime: Join us for stories, songs and fun. For ages 3-5.
Weekly on Thursdays
10:30 AM – 11:15 AM in Elgin
Baby Storytime: A fun time of stories, songs and movement for the very young. For ages 0-2.
Weekly on Thursdays
11:30 AM – 12 PM in Elgin
Get Set to Read Storytime: Join us for stories, songs and fun. For ages 3-5.
Weekly on Thursdays
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM in Bethune
Craft Corner: All crafts and skill levels are welcome at the library to craft with our supplies or you can bring your own. All ages.
Weekly on Thursdays
1 PM – 3 PM in Elgin
In Stitches: Bring your latest craft project (knit, crochet, quilting, etc.) and join the crafting circle at the Elgin library to share tips, tricks, or just enjoy conversation together. (Formerly known as Crafty Crafters).
Weekly on Fridays
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM in Elgin
Homeschool Chess: Join other kids and parents for chess at the Elgin branch! Ages 6-17.
Special Events
Thursday, May 7 | 4 PM – 5 PM | Camden
Lego Club: Kids and parents playing along are welcome to join us in playing with Legos at the library.
Thursday, May 7 | 4 PM – 6 PM | Elgin #hangout: Teens ages 12-17 can join other teens at the library for fun, games, conversation and crafts.
Friday, May 8 | 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Camden Little Explorers’ Club: Join us as we learn about the American flag and make one to take home. Register by emailing laurend@kershawcountylibrary. org
Saturday, May 9 | 10 AM – 1 PM | Camden
Mango Languages Drop-In: French: Drop by the Camden Branch and learn how to learn a language! Interested in learning the French Language? We have an app for that! Your library provides Mango Languages with over 70 world languages and more than 20 English courses. Carry the lessons with you via the app to learn on the go. No sign up required, just stop by.
Monday, May 11 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Camden
Pruning & Trimming Tips: In this informative class lead by Jasmine Leavitt, we will learn proper pruning and trimming techniques for a variety of trees and shrubs. Please call us at 803-425-1508 to register. For ages 18+.
Tuesday, May 12 | 9 AM – 6 PM | Elgin
Patriotic Take-and-Make: Swing by and pick up a take-and-make celebrating the 250th of our nation! Limit one per child.
Tuesday, May 12 | 4 PM – 6 PM | Elgin
BLOX: Kids and teens of all ages can join us at the Elgin library to build with a variety of bricks and blocks. Enjoy Legos, K’nex, Lincoln Logs, Snap Circuits, wooden blocks, and more.
Wednesday, May 13 | 1:30 PM – 3 PM | Camden
Teen Hangout: All teen homeschoolers are welcome to honor our country's 250th anniversary by reading about the Fort McHenry flag, and making your own primitive looking flag out of muslin. All materials supplied. For ages 12 and older. Please register by emailing laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org.
Wednesday, May 13 | 5 PM – 7 PM | Elgin
Adult Crafting: America’s 250th: Join us tonight to craft something patriotic to celebrate the 250th birthday of our nation. For ages 18+.
Thursday, May 14 | 4 PM – 5:30 PM | Camden
KCL Chess Club: Drop in for a chess club for all ages and skill levels! If you don’t know how to play, we offer free lessons for ages 8 to adult. In each session, we’ll also discuss tactics for your chess game.
Saturday, May 16 | 10 AM – 12 PM | Camden
Bare Roots Beginnings: Begin your groundwork using family history lessons and tools found on Ancestry Library Edition. Outline what you already know about your family and move backwards into your ancestry. Create a good search using special tips & tricks for narrowing your returns. Ages 18+; due to limited seating, please register at the Camden branch or call 803-4251508.
This month’s Bare Roots Beginnings is a special edition centered on America250 & Revolutionary War searching.
Ancestry Library Edition is available inside the library only and does not require a username or password. You may bring your laptop or electronic device with you for personal classroom use.
Saturday, May 16 | 10 AM – 2 PM | Elgin
Game Day: Stop in anytime during branch hours to play with our selection of board games. Feel free to bring your own! It’s fun for all ages.
Monday, May 18 | 10:30 AM – 3 PM | Elgin
Red Cross Bloodmobile: Come help save a life and donate blood with the Red Cross’s Bloodmobile! Donors will receive a free beach towel while supplies last.
Monday, May 18 | 12 PM – 1 PM | National Steeplechase Museum in Camden
Kristy Woodson Harvey Book Tour: Meet New York Times Bestselling author Kristy Woodson Harvey as we celebrate the launch of our Summer Scribes Series featuring author talks throughout the summer. Kristy will discuss her new book, Summer State of Mind, with a book signing to follow. Free copies of the book while supplies last, as well as for-sale copies. Reservations required. Please visit the website to reserve your free seats: https:// buytickets.at/kershawcountylibrary/2156032
Monday, May 18 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Camden
Feeling Crafty? Upcycling at its finest! Old book pages will once again be used to make a fun addition to your Spring décor. Join us by calling 803-4251508 to save your place. For ages 18 and up.
Tuesday, May 19 | 5:30 PM – 7 PM | Elgin
Survivor Stories: Cancer survivors and caregivers join SC Cancer Alliance at KCL Elgin to share their stories with others and get the word out about the five screenable cancers (breast, cervical, colorectal, lung & prostate). Hear their powerful stories and ask your questions. Light refreshments provided. Please register by calling the branch at 803-438-7881.
Wednesday, May 20 | 5 PM – 6 PM | Camden
Yoga with Charlotte: Charlotte Dewar completed the 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, Flow Style Yoga in 2021. Charlotte’s yoga teaching style encourages you to align and sync your body, breath and soul. She is also certified in Kidding Around Yoga and believes a good sense of humor is essential in life. Please show up a few minutes early to get settled before class. Don’t forget your yoga mat! Call 803-425-1508 to register. For ages 18 and up.
Thursday, May 21 | 4 PM – 5 PM | Camden
Lego Club: Kids and parents playing along are welcome to join us in playing with Legos at the library.
Thursday, May 21 | 4 PM – 6 PM | Elgin
#hangout: Teens ages 12-17 can join other teens at the library for fun, games, conversation and crafts.
Monday, May 25 | 5 PM - 6 PM | Elgin
Elgin Book Club: Drop in and discuss Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan. Request your book at the front desk.
LIBRARY EVENTS, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10
Tuesday, May 26 | 9 AM – 11 AM | Camden/Elgin
SC Works: If you’re looking to reenter the work force or need help with your career planning, drop by and see how SC Works can help.
Tuesday, May 26 | 6 PM – 7 PM | Camden Camden Book Club: This month, our club is reading Slightly South of Simple by Kristy Woodson Harvey. Request a copy at the Camden front desk. New members welcome!
Thursday, May 28 | 4 PM – 5:30 PM | Camden
KCL Chess Club: Drop in for a chess club for all ages and skill levels! If you don’t know how to play, we offer free lessons for ages 8 to adult. In each session, we’ll also discuss tactics for your chess game.
Friday, May 29 | 10 AM – 1 PM | Revolutionary War Visitor Center
KCL Day: Join KCL for a day of Revolutionary fun featuring Bright Star Touring Theatre, a Civil War presentation, Colonial-themed crafts, and KCL's Bookmobile.
• 10 AM - Historic Camden Tour: We will hike to Historic Camden, where they will start the day describing the occupation of Camden by the British starting on May 31,1780. We'll walk to the redoubt and gain some insight into life in a British fortification.
• 11 AM - Bright Star Theater presents Jack's Adventure in American History: Join Jack as he crams for his upcoming test. When his history book magically bursts, Jack meets some of the most exciting people in our nation’s history! George Washington, Ben Franklin, Henry Ford and Neil Armstrong are just some of the 22 characters who show up in this high-energy adventure.
• 12 PM - Civil War Presentation: Dr. David Decker, Assoc. Professor of History at USC-Sumter, will use examples of uniforms, weapons and horse equipment to show the development of the US Army’s mounted troops. Examples will come from the Revolutionary, Mexican and Civil Wars. We will look at why and how uniforms change, why and how saddles change as well as weapon development and use.
• 12:30 PM - Colonial Crafts: To wear a hat or head covering today is not necessary, but in 1776 it was required! Women wore bonnets or mop caps depending on what they were doing and men wore tricorn hats. Dress the part of a colonial youth by making mop caps and tricorns with library staff. All materials supplied. Please register by emailing: laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org
Saturday, May 30 | 10 AM – 2 PM | Nature as Teacher Preserve,Camden Go Wild! Messtival: This drop-in, hands-on nature event for children and families (ages 0–12) will feature messy, sensory-rich trail stations such as nature print-making, a mud kitchen, a bug exploration station, a nature scavenger hunt, colorful trail soakers, salt dough animal tracks and so much more! Dress for a mess! Twist & Sip Lemonade and the Big Dill Grill will be on hand as well. Join us as we kick off summer reading right.
Summer Reading Program For Kids
The Kershaw County Library is launching its 2026 youth summer reading program with support from the Kershaw County School District, aiming to keep students reading and on track during the summer.
This year's countywide One Book experience features The Wild Robot by Peter Brown. The school district is helping to promote the program and has secured a grant to provide copies of the picture book
The Wild Robot on the Island for younger readers in district summer camps, expanding early literacy access.
The library will also distribute free books to children with the greatest need. Families will explore the book’s central themes of community, friendship, and nature through summer reading and hands-on experiences.
"We fully support reading during the summer. Continuing to read while school is out is essential for helping students stay on track and return ready to learn," said Matia Goodwin of Kershaw County School District.
Reading Challenge Details:
Children can participate by reading books of their choice. Those who complete the challenge earn a free book to keep.
Ages 0–5th grade: Win with 10 (read 10 books).
Grades 6–8: Strive for 5 (read 5 books).
Copies of The Wild Robot are available in print, ebook, and audiobook formats.
Summer Events:
Revolutionary Day — May 29, 10 AM – 1 PM A celebration of community with history and activities.
Go Wild Messtival — May 30, 10 AM – 2 PM A playful kickoff focused on friendship and making new connections.
Go Wild Summer Celebration — June 20, 11 AM – 5 PM A day centered on nature with guided walks and outdoor exploration.
SC Aquarium: Mountains to the Sea — July 23 An interactive program highlighting nature and sea life.
Kershaw County Library serves the community via branches in Camden, Elgin, and Bethune, and its mobile bookmobile.
For more information, visit www.kershawcountylibrary.org.
Junior Leadership Class of 2026
Junior Leadership Kershaw County continues to shape the next generation of community leaders through its student leadership development program sponsored by Kershaw County School District, Camden Military Academy, and the Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce. Designed to build leadership skills and foster community spirit, the program brings together students from across the county for hands-on learning experiences throughout the year.
Congratulations to Jada Diaz (at left), recipient of the Robert J. Sheheen Outstanding Junior Leadership Student Award, recognizing exceptional leadership and commitment to the program.
National School Lunch Hero Day
On National School Lunch Hero Day, Blaney Elementary recognized their Food and Nutrition staff. Your hard work, kindness, and dedication make a difference every single day. From preparing meals to sharing smiles, you help nourish both bodies and spirits.
30th Back To School Bash
Kershaw County families are invited to kick off the new school year with support, supplies, and a sense of community at the upcoming Back 2 School Bash.
Hosted by KCB2SBC in partnership with New Beginning Family Worship Center, the event will take place on Saturday, June 27, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Camden High School gym.
Designed to prepare students for a successful year, the free event will provide school supplies while they last, along with a variety of resources and activities for children and families.
In addition to supplies, families can take advantage of free sports physicals for students (registration required), as well as healthy meal options, motivational activities, and a career corner aimed at inspiring future goals. The event is part of a long-standing community effort, with organizers noting more than 30 years of service in the area.
Parents or guardians must be present with their children to participate.
To sign up for sports physicals or learn more, call 803-361-0078. For general questions, contact 706-910-9471 or 803-427-4237.
Organizers encourage families to arrive early, as supplies are limited.
Camden Community Concert Band Presents Season Finale Concert
The Camden Community Concert Band will take the stage this month with a lively program titled Entertainment, featuring music that moves, delights and inspires.
The concert will be held Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 3 p.m. at Camden High School, located at 1022 Ehrenclou Drive in Camden.
Audience members can expect a wide variety of familiar favorites, including selections from movies, television, Broadway, pop and classical music.
Admission is free, though donations are appreciated. The event is open to the public, and everyone is welcome to attend.
Make plans to take a seat and enjoy an afternoon of music with the Camden Community Concert Band.
SHOEMAKE, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2
County from uncontrolled growth that outpaces our infrastructure. It is not a plan that hurts local builders or stops families from building on their own property. The vast majority of permits will continue to go to homes built outside of major subdivisions, just as they always have.
Growth is not the enemy - unmanaged growth is. These measures give us the tools to grow responsibly while protecting the community we all love.
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.
LEHS and Project Safe Neighborhood Logo Contest
Lugoff-Elgin High School is celebrating several students recognized in the 2026 Project Safe Neighborhoods Logo Contest, a statewide initiative promoting school safety and gun violence prevention.
Sophomore Karla Hernandez earned top honors in the 9–12 grade division and will be recognized at the district level during the May 19 Board of Trustees meeting. Honorable mentions were awarded to freshman Jessy Martinez Gonzalez and sophomore Samara Oni.
Open to students across South Carolina in grades K–12, this contest encourages young people to use creativity to spark conversations about preventing gun violence and fostering safer school environments. This year’s theme, “Preventing Gun Violence in Our Schools – Know the Signs,” highlighted the importance of recognizing warning signals and speaking up.
Student submissions often emphasized the message “see something, say something,” reflecting the reality that, in many documented cases of school violence, warning signs were present but not fully recognized or reported.
At Lugoff-Elgin High, math teacher Samantha Thomas-Greene incorporated the contest into classroom learning, blending creativity with real-world application. Through a lesson on quadrilaterals, students explored concepts of area and space while connecting them to safety and prevention. They then designed logos on quadrilateral surfaces, integrating both mathematical principles and messages aligned with the initiative. The school community commends these students for their creativity, leadership, and commitment to promoting a safer school environment.
‘Heritage Tea’ Student Projects On Display
The African American Cultural Center of Camden will host the first-place winning student projects from this year’s Kershaw County School District Heritage Tea program, inviting the community to experience both student achievement and local history in one place.
Located at 517 York Street, the Cultural Center will feature the top projects from students in grades 3 through 8 who participated in the annual program. Since 1987, the Arts Center of Kershaw County, through its Multicultural Committee, has partnered with the Kershaw County School District to engage students in researching and presenting the lives and contributions of influential African American figures.
Student submissions were initially displayed at the Arts Center, where the Multicultural Committee conducted a blind judging process. The first-place projects, recognized for their creativity, depth of research, and presentation, will be on display at the Cultural Center through May 15.
In addition to the student showcase, visitors can explore the Cultural Center’s newest exhibit, “A Walk-Through History: Milestones in Economics & Education — 1867–1927.” The exhibit offers an immersive look at six decades of life in the post-emancipation South, featuring photographs, artifacts, and interpretive displays that highlight resilience, progress, and the lasting impact of everyday lives in shaping the Camden community.
The Cultural Center is open to the public on Fridays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Community members of all ages are encouraged to visit and experience the stories that continue to shape Camden.
Left: Karla Hernandez (Winner, 9–12 Division) – Sophomore Karla Hernandez earned top honors in the 2026 Project Safe Neighborhoods Logo Contest and will be recognized at the May 19 Board meeting for her impactful design promoting school safety. Center: Samara Oni (Honorable Mention, 10th Grade) and Right: Jessy Martinez Gonzalez (Honorable Mention, 9th Grade) .
Peace Officer Memorial Day
Public Invited To Memorial Ceremony
Friday, May 15th | 10 am
The Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office will host a Peace Officers Memorial Day Ceremony on Friday, May 15, 2026 @ 10 am. It will be held on the site of the future Kershaw County Law Enforcement Officers Memorial located beside the flagpole at the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office (821 Ridgeway Road, Lugoff).
Speakers include:
Kershaw Council Chairman Ben Connell
Camden Mayor Vincent Sheheen
SC Representative Cody Mitchell
Camden Police Chief Jack Rushing
Kershaw County Sheriff Lee Boan
The ceremony will honor the nine fallen officers of Kershaw County and their family members.
KC Library Announces Summer Scribes Series
Kershaw County Library is welcoming a full lineup of authors this summer with a series of programs celebrating books, storytelling, and community. Events will take place at multiple locations across the county and feature a mix of bestselling and regional writers.
The series begins Monday, May 18 at noon at the Steeplechase Museum with Kristy Woodson Harvey, a New York Times bestselling author, who will discuss her latest book Summer State of Mind. Registration is required for this event.
On Saturday, June 20 at 6 p.m., Vanessa Miller, a USA Today bestselling author, will appear at the Camden branch to discuss her novel American Queen.
Two programs are scheduled for Saturday, June 27. At 11 a.m. at the Elgin branch, L. Glen Inabinet will be joined by Vietnam War historian Fritz Hamer for a discussion of Mekong Memoirs. Later that day at 5:30 p.m. in Camden, New York Times bestselling author Ruta Sepetys will discuss her new novel A Fortune of Sand.
The series continues Saturday, July 18 at 5:30 p.m. in Camden with Stuart Pennebaker, who will speak about her debut novel Ghost Fish. The final event will be held Saturday, July 25 at 2 p.m. at the Revolutionary War Visitor’s Center, featuring USA Today bestselling author Donna Everhart and her book Women of a Promiscuous Nature.
Registration is required for select events. For more information or to reserve tickets for the Kristy Woodson Harvey program, visit the Kershaw County Library or scan the event QR code.
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