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From The Mayor's Desk
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:
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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.
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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
Cate Goff, Publisher (803)
By: Mayor Melissa Brazell Emmons
Note: From The Mayor’s Desk is submitted by Mayor Melissa Emmons and is not the official minutes of the Elgin Town Council.
The Elgin Town Council held its monthly meeting on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Town Hall with Mayor Melissa Emmons presiding. Council members in attendance included Mayor Pro Tem Brad Hanley, Councilwoman Dana Sloan, Councilwoman Cristy Bradley, and Councilwoman Brandy Bradley, along with Lt. Chris DeLong, Town Clerk Jamie Parker, and Town Attorney John Wells.
Mayor Emmons opened the meeting with the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayor Pro Tem Brad Hanley. Council unanimously approved the minutes from the April 7 meeting and later adopted the evening's agenda.
Several new business licenses were reported for April. New in-town businesses included J&J’s Variety on Main and Amanda S at South by Sunset Salon. Temporary business licenses were also issued to several businesses, including Lofton’s Plumbing & Gas, Midlands Family Insurance Group, Accurate Roofing & Consulting, Wooded Hill Enterprises, Sandhills Softwash, The Ellies Attic, C.S. Exteriors, and Gather and Grind Coffee Company.
Council also reviewed one complaint filed during April. The complaint, submitted by Billy Pittenger on April 8, was investigated by the Town’s Code Enforcement Officer, who determined there were no code violations.
Under old business, council members received the monthly Community Center report for April and announced the latest Business of the Quarter recipient. Dedra Harvin Esthetics received the honor.
Lt. Chris DeLong provided an update on activities within the Elgin Police Department. He reported that Officer Cooper sustained injuries while on duty on April 15. Lt. DeLong also recognized Marcus Pressley as the department’s Fourth Quarter Officer and noted that the department’s first School Resource Officer grant visit on May 5 had been successful.
Council also conducted the first reading, by title only, of the proposed 2026-2027 Town of Elgin budget. The proposed budget projects revenues and expenses totaling $2,040,966. Mayor Pro Tem Brad Hanley made the motion to approve the first reading, which was seconded by Councilwoman Cristy Bradley and approved unanimously following discussion regarding budget figures.
During council briefings, Councilwoman Dana Sloan congratulated graduates of Lugoff-Elgin High School and reminded residents that graduation ceremonies are scheduled for May 21.
Councilwoman Brandy Bradley extended congratulations to students and teachers while also expressing appreciation to residents attending the meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Brad Hanley shared personal congratulations for family milestones, noting his grandson Shawn’s graduation from technical school and Noah’s induction into the National Technical Honor Society.
Councilwoman Cristy Bradley announced that her youngest son, Brice, would graduate this
SEE MAYOR’S DESK, PAGE 9 >>
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.
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The Elgin News, PO Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045 · (803) 513-5108 Cate Goff, Publisher · Email: elginnews@gmail.com
Scuteri Named Hospitality Employee of the Year
Jenn Scuteri of the City of Camden has been awarded the 2026 HEY Award, or Hospitality Employee of the Year Award, by the Olde English District Tourism Commission for her exceptional work with visitors to Camden.
Scuteri was recognized for her dedication to hospitality, her commitment to welcoming visitors, and the positive impression she makes on guests exploring Camden and the Olde English District. Her work reflects the important role that front-line tourism professionals play in representing their communities and strengthening South Carolina’s visitor economy.
“It has been a pleasure working with Jenn to make visitors to Camden feel welcomed and at home,” said Kat Spadacenta, Camden’s Community Development Coordinator. “Whether it is a curated welcome packet, a warm email to visitors, or a friendly face at community events, Jenn brings a warm and professional presence that has helped Camden earn a reputation for true Southern hospitality.”
Rickie Good, Director of the Revolutionary War Visitor Center, also praised Scuteri’s service to visitors. “Jenn does a fantastic job working with guests and providing individualized recommendations for their trips,” Good said. “She is unfailingly welcoming and helpful to everyone who walks into the Visitor Center.”
“Jenn never shies away from a request for assistance – from visitors or colleagues – and she consistently goes above and beyond in fulfilling her role in serving those visiting Camden,” said Jenny Parrish, Director of Tourism for the City of Camden and Kershaw County. “Camden and the Olde English District are lucky to have a hospitality representative of Jenn’s caliber on our team, and we’re delighted she’s been recognized with this prestigious honor.”
The Olde English District Tourism Commission promotes tourism across Chester, Chesterfield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Union, and York counties. Through the HEY Awards, the commission joins tourism partners across the state in recognizing the people who make South Carolina a welcoming destination.
The HEY Awards honor front-line staff in SC’s tourism industry who demonstrate exceptional customer service and hospitality. The program is coordinated and co-sponsored by the SC Area Tourism Regions and the SC Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism.
Richland/Kershaw
Boundary Clarification Public Meetings
The South Carolina Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office will host a Boundary Clarification Public Meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will address the Richland/Kershaw County boundary and will be held by Zoom conference.
The public is encouraged to attend to learn more about the boundary clarification process, ask questions, and provide input. The meeting is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to ensure accurate and clearly defined county boundary information.
Meeting Details:
• Richland/Kershaw County Boundary Clarification Public Meeting
• Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
• Web Conference
• South Carolina Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office
• Members of the public may join the webinar online or by phone.
Webinar Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87423631067
Phone: 1-312-626-6799
*Webinar ID: 874 2363 1067
Pictured left to right are Micah Decker, Executive Director of the Olde English District, and Jenn Scuteri, Visitor Engagement Coordinator at the Revolutionary War Visitors Center, following Scuteri’s recognition as the 2026 Hospitality Employee of the Year.
Honoring America’s Heroic Females
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Janet Collier Durgin of Lugoff was featured as a "Living Legend" by the Military Women’s Memorial in Washington, DC and received recognition in The Elgin News for her work as a nurse and her military service in its Veterans’ Day article. She celebrated her 103rd birthday May 1, 2026.
As I thought about my own mother’s service to our country, I wondered whether her story would ever become part of the memorial. My interest in this tribute to women lingered. A few months later, my childhood friend Rebecca Crichton, RN-BC, MS, MSN invited me to a Veterans Museum presentation in my hometown, where I found many answers.
My friend Becky first visited the memorial in 1998 after transferring to Washington to serve at Bethesda Naval Hospital. She attended various ceremonies there, including promotions, retirements, and Nurse Day events honoring military nurses. While stationed at Bethesda, she volunteered with Wreaths Across America at Arlington and regularly brought visiting family and friends to the women's memorial.
The Military Women’s Memorial, at the entrance of Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., was established in 1997. More than 300,000 women who have served the United States in numerous roles since the Revolutionary War have been formally registered with the memorial.
The National Memorial is dedicated to honoring and recounting the contributions of military women—both past and present—who have served the nation. A postcard for the memorial recognizes their achievements with the words: “For the women who blazed the trail… for the women who forged new paths… for the girls who would carry on their legacy.”
There are so many stories left untold and South Carolina Ambassador Barb Kucharczyk, USAF, Ret. of Sumter is looking for current women who are serving their country or who have served. This Elgin News article asks readers to spread the word about the memorial tribute to other women veterans.
Visit womensmemorial.org and click "Register Your Service button."
Veterans or current military women should note: if someone else registers you, there's only a 30-day window for corrections. Click "Create an account," fill out the initial details, and set up your own password. There is no fee or charge.
Barbara shared that as of February, more than 6,800 women—about 15%—are registered with the VA. “Over the past two years, we have increased awareness about MWM in South Carolina through statewide outreach. As ambassadors, we focus on educating the public about the MWM, which features an electronic archive of over 334,300 names, photos, and stories from the American Revolution to today.”
Barbara continued, “One of my personal interests involves researching and identifying women veterans in cemeteries throughout South Carolina and on the Find A Grave website. From small family cemeteries in remote areas to larger sites such as Fort Jackson National Cemetery, I search for women veterans, verify their registration status, and personally register those who are not yet included. Through this process, I have registered hundreds of women, often working closely with the families of deceased veterans. The gratitude expressed by these families, whether through smiles or tears, when provided a copy of the profile generated upon registration, makes the effort rewarding.”
The memorial spans 33,000 square feet, featuring an Education Center, gallery, bookstore, and Hall of Honor.
In 1983, World War II women veterans, posed a question: "What about us?" Inspired by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, they sought overdue recognition for their service. The Military Women's Memorial was dedicated October 18, 1997, attended by more than 40,000 veterans, families, and friends.
Since the American Revolution, approximately three million women have served the nation, yet many of their stories remain untold. The Military Women's Memorial focuses on connecting with women who have served and local veteran organizations. Recording the history of women who have served the nation is important.
Since 1776, women like Deborah Sampson (disguised as a man for 17 months) and Molly Pitcher (took husband’s place firing a cannon) had key roles in the American Revolution and every major conflict since, including Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, the only female Medal of Honor recipient and a Union surgeon.
Let’s also remember Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May—a time to honor those who gave their lives in service to our country.
Town of Elgin Public Notice
Pursuant to Section 6-1-80 of the S.C. Code of Laws, public notice is hereby given that Elgin Town Council will hold a public hearing on the municipal budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year: June 2, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. | Elgin Community Center, 2427 Main Street
Rotary Clubs of Kershaw County Scholarships
The Camden Rotary Club and the West Wateree Rotary Club join forces each year for the Wild Game Dinner to raise scholarship funds for Kershaw County students. Recently, scholarships of $6,000 per student were given to LEHS and CHS graduates. North Central and home-schooled graduates will be receiving scholarships later this week.
From Lugoff-Elgin High, scholarships were awarded to: Abigail
Shoemake, Addison Greenwood, Bre’yana Peterson, Gretchen Proctor, Griffin Proctor, Hayden Stokes, Jada Diaz, Johanna Williams, Jordan Best, Neveah Anderson, Sarah Broome and Sarah Rhodes (not pictured).
From Camden High, scholarships were awarded to: Liz Eckenroth, Leah Hendrix, Stephanie Huh, Gina Millington and Laine Redfearn.
Top, Rotarians Kelly Group and Matt Irick present scholarship awards to LEHS students. Bottom, Rotarians Bob Giangiorgi, left and Alfred Mae Drakeford, right with CHS scholarship recipients. Photos courtesy Johnny Deal, BowTie Photography.
KC Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala
The Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Awards Gala, bringing together local business leaders, community members, and organizations for an evening of recognition and celebration. Presented by TruVista Fiber, the event was held at The Bock Estate & Venue, with food provided by Beasley's Barbeque, music by Blackwell Music, and photography by Bowtie.
Chamber Executive Director Loree Stokes and Board Chair Sallie Harrell presided over the evening as award after award honored the people and businesses making a lasting impact in Kershaw County.
Camden Rotary Club took home the Non-Profit of the Year award, represented by Rotary member Tom Sliker. The award was sponsored by The Health Services District of Kershaw County, represented by Donnie Wilson.
David Stokes Jr. was named recipient of the prestigious Bobby T. Jones Humanitarian Award, sponsored by MUSC Health – Kershaw Medical Center and represented by Dr. Tallulah Holmstrom, alongside Mary Jones, wife of the late Bobby T. Jones.
Tyler Locke earned the Young Professional of the Year honor, with Duke Energy — represented by Quinetta Buterbaugh — serving as the award sponsor.
In the business categories, Patteson Insurance, represented by Jessica Shoemake and Rose Patteson, claimed Small Business of the Year, sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, represented by Charlotte Hodge. Southern Touch Landscaping, with owner Adam Branham alongside Luke Shrader and Tabitha Dobbs, was named Mid-Size Business of the Year, sponsored by Synovus Bank's Charlie Thompson. Kershaw Builders Inc., represented by owners Martha and Robin Blizzard, took the Large Business of the Year title, sponsored by SAFE Federal Credit Union's Hannah Bordeaux.
Patty Rose received the President's Award, sponsored by The Citizens Bank, represented by Wayne Galloway, with Chamber Office Manager Leigh Jeffcoat also on hand for the presentation.
Rounding out the evening, Board Chair Sallie Harrell was honored with the William F. Nettles Chamber Volunteer of the Year award, recognized by Executive Director Loree Stokes for her dedicated service to the Chamber and the community.
Congratulations to all of this year's award winners. Your leadership, dedication, and commitment to Kershaw County are what make this community great. Learn more about the Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce online at www.kershawcountychamber.org.
1: Small Business of the Year award winner, Patteson Insurance; 2: Bobby T. Jones Humanitarian Award winner, David Stokes Jr.; 3: Large Business of the Year award winner, Kershaw Builders Inc.; 4: William F. Nettles Chamber Volunteer of the Year Sallie Harrell; 5: Non-Profit of the Year award winner, Camden Rotary Club with Rotary member Tom Sliker; 6: President’s Award Winner, Patty Rose; 7: Young Professional of the Year award winner, Tyler Locke; 8: Mid-Size Business of the Year award winner, Southern Touch Landscaping
Relay For Life At Blaney Elem.
Blaney Elementary School's community came together for a meaningful Relay for Life event.
Above left, BES pre-k students Phoebe White (left) and Oliver Keys (right) share a sign of encouragement.
Above right, BES students Fisher and Gavin Bateman share a sign of encouragement.
Students proudly wore purple, raised donations, and walked together on the track to celebrate cancer survivors and support the fight against cancer. Every step was filled with love and purpose as they honored one of their own classmates, Sophia, who is courageously battling this disease, as well as staff members and family members who have been impacted by cancer.
MAYOR’S DESK, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2
year and plans to enter the Air Force.
Mayor Melissa Emmons and Attorney John Wells had no additional reports.
Council entered executive session at 6:38
p.m. to discuss a contractual matter and a legal matter. No votes were taken during the session. Council returned to open session at 8:09 p.m. and adjourned shortly afterward at 8:10
p.m.
The next regular meeting of the Elgin Town Council is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
History was made as Cornerstone Christian School celebrated its first-ever graduate, marking a monumental milestone for the school. Quentin Bennett, a student who has been a fixture of the campus since the school's infancy, officially crossed the stage as the sole member of the inaugural graduating class.
His journey is inextricably linked with the school’s own story. Cornerstone Christian School first opened its doors in 2007. Quentin joined the community shortly after as a second-grade student, making him one of the few individuals to have witnessed the school’s transformation from a fledgling academy into a full K-12 institution.
Throughout his decade-plus tenure at Cornerstone, Bennett has been recognized for his consistent academic performance. A perennial Honor Roll student, he recently earned national recognition by becoming a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. He is also a member of the National Beta Club.
"We are extremely proud of his accomplishments," said his parents, Quincy and Terri Bennett, noting that they have prayed for him to become everything he was created to be.
Leading the way for all future Cornerstone graduates, Bennett is headed to USC to study Marketing & Engineering. His choice reflects a clear vision for the future, building on the foundation of leadership and character instilled during his years at Cornerstone. As he prepares to depart the halls he helped build, Bennett leaves behind a blueprint for future graduates to follow. His graduation is not just a personal victory, but a testament to the school's vision of providing a continuous, faithbased education from preschool through high school.
Historic Graduation For Cornerstone Access Kershaw Celebrates 15 Years
For 15 years, Access Kershaw has worked to ensure that healthcare in Kershaw County extends beyond the walls of a clinic.
Founded in 2010 as one of the first three Access Health networks in South Carolina, the organization remains unique as the only network in the state operating under a free medical clinic. What began as a small effort led by two nurses connecting uninsured and underinsured residents to community resources has grown into a comprehensive program serving individuals across the region.
Today, Access Kershaw brings together a multidisciplinary team of nurses, a social worker and community health workers who collaborate with each client to build a personalized plan of care. That approach ensures people are connected not only to medical services, but also to support for the broader challenges that affect their health and stability.
The program helps residents with a wide range of needs, including connecting individuals to primary care and specialty providers, assisting with medications and insurance navigation, providing behavioral health support, addressing employment and housing needs, linking clients to food resources including SNAP, and connecting individuals to preventive services such as breast and cervical cancer screenings.
"Access Kershaw is an extension of our mission, allowing us to treat the whole person rather than just their symptoms," said Charlotte Rankin, CEO of Community Medical Clinic of Kershaw County. "Their dedication to navigating social services and providing foundational support enables our patients and community members to thrive, making them a key component of the work we do at CMC."
Access Kershaw Director Jodi Rodgers reflected on the milestone with gratitude for both the community and the team that built the program from the ground up.
"A decade and a half of service and countless lives changed," Rodgers said. "A healthier community begins when no one is left behind. We are proud to serve residents in both Kershaw and Lancaster Counties, helping individuals connect to the care and resources they need, including transitional care through referrals from MUSC. I also want to
recognize Sheri Bates, one of our founding nurses, whose compassion and commitment have been instrumental in shaping Access Kershaw from the very beginning."
The organization recently celebrated the anniversary with a community open house at the Community Medical Clinic of Kershaw County, 110 E. DeKalb St. in Camden, giving neighbors, partners and supporters a chance to meet the team and learn more about available services.
For more information about Access Kershaw or to find out how to access services, visit cmcofkc.org.
Quentin Bennett Cornerstone Christian School Graduate
Pictured left to right are Access Kershaw team members Marissa Villarreal-Sheheen, Eune’ce Glenn, Mary Demby, Jodi Rodgers, and Sheri Bates.
Original Six Visits Blaney Elementary
Blaney kindergarten students were recently visited by representatives of the Original Six Foundation. Every 5k student in the school was treated to a “My O6 Library Book Fair” and gifted ten high quality children’s books as part of the foundation’s program.
Above, ES kindergarten student Taytum Brown selects books at the My O6 Library Book Fair. The Original Six Foundation (O6 Foundation) is a non-profit organization founded in 2011 by former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley to improve education in rural and under-resourced communities across South Carolina.
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.
HOMECARE
Simplified Medication Management
Personalized Support from a Health Coach
Medication Delivery Available
WTC Kershaw County FFA Places 1st In South Carolina FFA Horse Evaluation CDE
WTC Kershaw County FFA Chapter members traveled to Clemson, South Carolina, on April 17, 2026, to compete in the state Horse Evaluation Career Development Event (CDE). These members were Madeline Foret, Eric Vergara Lopez, Corinne Rand, and Jalynn Golson. Corinne Rand scored 1st High Overall Individual, and the team placed 1st overall. Winning first in this event, these students will advance to the national-level competition and represent South Carolina at the National FFA Convention next October. Students who participate in the National FFA Horse Evaluation Career Development Event (CDE) gain new insights into equine science by evaluating and ranking horses based on breed characteristics, conformation, and performance. Participants defend their decisions orally before a panel of judges. In this team CDE, students solve problems related to everything from the nutrition and reproduction of horses to the tack/equipment and feed used to care for horses. Participants strengthen their leadership, observation, analysis, critical thinking, and communication skills while also developing and exercising a competitive team spirit and building an awareness of career opportunities within the equine industry.
WTC FFA Named Gold Emblem Chapter
The WTC Kershaw County FFA has been named a Gold Emblem chapter for 2026. Gold emblem chapters are in the top 10% of their state and demonstrate involvement in their communities, commitment to leadership, and passion for agriculture.
The WTC Kershaw County FFA will now advance to the national level and will be recognized at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN next October The National Chapter Award Gold Emblem Achievement is the highest level of recognition in the FFA National Chapter Award Program. It honors FFA chapters that excel in developing impactful activities that grow leaders, build communities, and strengthen agriculture. Chapters earning this distinction have demonstrated outstanding accomplishments in all three divisions of the Program of Activities:
• Growing Leaders
• Building Communities
• Strengthening Agriculture Gold Emblem chapters are showcased at the National FFA Convention and are eligible to compete for the Model of Excellence and Premier Chapter Awards.
WTC Kerhsaw County FFA Horse Judging Team with 1st place plaque. From left to right Corinne Rand, Jalynn Golson, Madeline Foret, Eric Vergara Lopez
NOTICE: Scam Alert
The Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an increase in scam calls involving individuals pretending to represent the Sheriff’s Office.
Scammers are spoofing the Sheriff’s Office phone number and using the names of actual deputies in an attempt to make the calls appear legitimate. In some cases, caller ID may show “Unknown Name” or appear to come from a local number.
Residents should be aware that Kershaw County will not collect fines, fees, warrants, or other payments by text message, email, or phone call. The Sheriff’s Office will never demand payment by phone, and residents should never send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or Bitcoin without first verifying the information.
Before making any payment, residents should contact the appropriate office directly to confirm whether any fine, fee, or court-related matter is legitimate. This may include the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office, Clerk of Court, Treasurer, Planning and Zoning or Magistrates Office.
If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email claiming to be from the Sheriff’s Office, do not provide personal information or payment. Hang up and call the Sheriff’s Office directly to verify.
Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office: 803.425.1512
The Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to share this information with family, friends, and neighbors to help prevent others from becoming victims of these scams.
Community Health Fair
St. Matthew Baptist Church is inviting the entire Kershaw County community to its 2nd Annual Community Health Fair - and it’s completely free! Hosted by the SMBC Health Ministry under the leadership of Pastor James O. Williams, this year’s event carries the theme “Faith in Action: Healthy Bodies, Healthy Souls.”
Mark your calendars: Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at 749 Longtown Road, Lugoff, SC 29078.
Attendees can take advantage of free health services including blood pressure and glucose screenings, mental health services, grief counseling, behavioral health services, and general community health services. Food and drinks will be provided, along with free raffle giveaways throughout the morning.
This year’s fair features an impressive lineup of local organizations, including the Kershaw County Fire Department, Kershaw County EMS, Kershaw County Bookmobile, Safe Bank – Lugoff Branch, Access Kershaw, Midlands Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, United Way, Clemson Extension, and many more.
For additional information, contact Dr. Rachelle Shepard at 803.290.6357.
Future Educator Signing Day
On Thursday, May 7, 15 seniors representing Camden, Lugoff-Elgin and North Central high schools participated in Kershaw County School District’s Annual Future Educator Signing Day. The event, hosted by KCSD’s Teacher Forum, celebrated students who have decided to pursue careers in the field of education.
The signing day provided a chance for students, their families, and their educators to gather together and honor the impact of teachers past, present and future.
"We love celebrating these students who have decided to pursue the often difficult, yet richly rewarding career of public education," Jenny Proctor, Teacher Forum member, said. "We hope to see them return home to Kershaw County, but no matter where they go, we will always be proud of the fact that they are products of our amazing community.”
The future educator signees included:
Camden High School
Larkin Alexander, University of SC
Kairi Diegert, University of SC
Liz Eckenroth, Clemson University
Daniella Ramos Rodriguez, CCTC
Lugoff-Elgin High School
Sarah Broome, Winthrop University
Eden Corder, Coastal Carolina University
Addison Greenwood, Coastal Carolina
Ansley Ray, Anderson University
J’Dyn Rodgers, University of SC
Emily Turowsky, Lander University
North Central High School
Malorie Bantum, Clemson University
Zaria Brown, Presbyterian College
JaKeem Drakeford, Columbia College
Bailey Freeman, Winthrop University
Bella Wallick, Clemson University
(L-R) Back row: Malorie Bantum, Zaria Brown, Bailey Freeman, Addison Greenwood, Bella Wallick, Emily Turowski, Jakeem Drakeford, Liz Eckenroth Front row: J’Dyn Rodgers, Daniella Ramos Rodriguez, Sarah Broome, Ansley Ray, Eden Corder, Larkin Alexander
Peace Officer Memorial Day Ceremony
We were proud to dedicate last week’s KCSO Peace Officer Memorial Day Ceremony to Elgin’s own, Jeannie Potter.
Plans to create the Kershaw County Law Enforcement Officers Memorial began in mid-2024. A board, consisting of non-elected/ political members with a deep personal investment in honoring the law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the citizens of Kershaw County, was assembled.
The board members are:
• Jeannie Potter, widow of KCSO Deputy Chris Potter III
• Gayle Kosko, widow of SCHP Trooper Merl Godbold
• David Thomley, retired KCSO Captain
• Harold Brown, retired Elgin Police Chief
• Danny Templar, Kershaw County Administrator
• Daniel Roberts, Kershaw County Legislative Delegation
• Benjy Jackson, KCSO Foundation Chairman
• Autumn Furniss, KCSO Administrative Assistant
Together, the board designed and approved the monument. The estimated cost of the project was between $200,000 and $250,000, with a goal of completing the memorial by May 2026.
Unfortunately, donations came in slower than expected, and it became clear that completing the monument in time for the May 15, 2026 Peace Officer Memorial Day Ceremony would not be possible without reducing costs. After careful discussion, Jeannie Potter and the board made the difficult decision to delay the project rather than compromise its vision.
We have officers who gave their lives in service more than 100 years ago. Waiting another year or two was worth it if it meant honoring them the right way. The board remained committed to quality over speed.
As preparations for the 2026 ceremony continued, Jeannie’s health began to decline. She was unable to attend the final board meeting or the May 15 ceremony because of her condition. During that time, the board unanimously voted to make Jeannie Potter its President.
We all recognized that Jeannie has been the driving force behind this memorial, and we wanted her to hold the position that would ensure her vision remained at the heart of this project.
President Jeannie Potter’s wish is simple: complete this monument exactly as it was originally intended. The law enforcement officers whose names will appear on this wall gave everything they had to Kershaw County. We will do the same for them.
This monument will be completed without compromise — because
President Jeannie Potter would have it no other way. LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS TO BE HONORED ON THE MONUMENT:
• Robert Albertus Latta, Camden Police Department
• Jesse Fletcher Bateman, South Carolina State Constable
• Theodore Turner, Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office
• James Eugene Orr, Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office
• Ernest Christian Potter, III, Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office
• Hardy Merl Godbold, South Carolina Highway Patrol
• Ferris Edward Catoe, III, Camden Police Department
• Jonathan Shea Nash, South Carolina Highway Patrol
• Robert L. Evans, Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office
Above, RCSD Major Chis Potter, IV receiving recognition award for his mother, President Jeannie Potter during the 2026 Peace Officer Memorial Day Ceremony. (photo credit: WLTX).
Above, President Jeannie Potter (Monument Board) and Benji Jackson (KC Sheriff’s Foundation) from the 2025 Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony.
N. Cannon, Jr.
Arien Cannon