News From KC Council
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Letters to the Editor
The Elgin News P.O. Box 152 Elgin, SC 29045
By: Council Chairman Ben Connell
An important part of considering how to manage growth in Kershaw County involves encouraging economic development and bringing solid jobs to our community. I am excited to share the introduction of Project NAM, a proposal currently before County Council, which propose a $12 million investment in our area and at least 50 new jobs. This project is expected to bring quality jobs to Kershaw County, enhancing our local economy and providing residents with more local employment opportunities.
Kershaw County is experiencing significant residential growth, particularly in the West Wateree area. While this growth brings opportunities, it also presents challenges such as increased traffic congestion and strain on infrastructure. To address these issues, the county council recently increased the minimum lot size to .5 acre, for those with sewer access, and 1 acre, for those on septic tanks. We are also implementing improved residential growth controls that balance development with the preservation of our community's rural character. This process will move towards completion when the planning commission completes its work on the comprehensive plan in the near future. Then, the County Council and staff will finish working on the Kershaw County Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR).
As the newest member of County Council, I am committed to ensuring our community grows thoughtfully in a manner that respects individual property rights while safeguarding the quality of life for all residents. We need to hear from you on a moratorium proposal before Council that would generally prevent any new subdivisions for at least six months, including those subdivisions as small as two lots. We need feedback from the community on this proposal so we can understand what balance to strike on possibly using a moratorium as a tool to control growth, while also protecting individual property rights and making sure that government does not overstep it bounds. Infrastructure improvements are also underway, thanks to long-awaited funding. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has initiated several projects in our county, including the replacement and rehabilitation of bridges on I-20 over the Wateree River, the bridge in Elgin, and various repaving projects, among many others. Local leaders, including the county, have recently asked to be more included in and updated on the scheduling of these state projects so that interruptions and related traffic can be minimized. These projects are vital for ensuring safe and efficient transportation for our community and I’m glad to see the requested funding being provided.
The third and final reading of the 2025-2026 budget is set for the June 17th County Council meeting.
In conclusion, Kershaw County is taking deliberate steps to manage growth responsibly while respecting individual property rights, attract meaningful economic investments, and support improvements for our infrastructure. By working together, we can build a thriving community that honors our way of life and meets the needs of our residents.
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Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Disorderly Conduct: Officer was dispatched to the incident location (Circle K) in reference to a white male in the store cursing and causing a scene. Upon the reporting officer's arrival the Suspect already departed on a moped. He was last seen taking a left onto Church Street. The Complainant, Manager of the incident location, advised the Suspect entered the store and as he did he walked up close to one of the clerks and did a humping gesture while saying "ooh baby baby" . He then proceeded to call the Complainant a whore and bi^%h. She advised this is not the first time he has caused a scene at the store and wishes for him to be trespassed upon being located. The Complainant was able to obtain a picture of the Suspect just before he departed. The photo will be attached to the report. The Suspect is an older white male with a long grey beard on a black moped. The reporting officer's body worn cameras was not activated as he forgot to activate it.
Trespassing After Notice: Officer was dispatched to the location, Family Dollar, which is within the Town limits of Elgin, in refer-
ence to a possible shoplifting by an individual that was trespassed from the location. While in route to the location, Officer was advised by Dispatch that the suspect on the premise was one Suspect. Officer arrived on scene and made contact with the Manager and asked if Suspect was still inside the business or if she had already left. Manager stated that she was still inside and immediately led Officer to the isle that the suspect was on with merchandise in her hands. Suspect is know to Officer through prior encounters and Officer was aware of an active trespass notice against Suspect at the location (case number 220300196), so Officer immediately asked Suspect to place her things on the ground before detaining her in handcuffs to further investigate the possible shoplifting claim. Officer placed Suspect in the rear of their patrol vehicle and began speaking with Manager, who stated that Suspect had entered the store at approximately 1800 hours. Manager stated that Suspect walked up and down several isles acting "weird" by picking up items off the shelves to look at them before immediately dropping them on the bottom of the shelf. Manager stated that at one point
Suspect had collected a gift bag that she was stuffing things into however she ultimately abandoned that bag in the open on one of the isles prior to Officer arriving on scene. Suspect was in possession of a pink bag that she stated belonged to her and after a search of her bag was conducted, Manager confirmed that nothing that belonged to the store was in Suspect possession. At this time, Suspect was placed under arrest for Trespassing after Notice and was going to be transported to the Kershaw County Detention Center when she stated that she needed to go to the hospital. When asked why she stated that she needed to have her eye looked at, which Officer noticed did have what appeared to be puss coming from it, as well as the fact that she needed to be checked because she "was on medication that would blow up the x-ray machine at the jail." Officer transported Suspect to the hospital where she was treated in house for her pink eye and medically cleared to the jail. Suspect was then transported to KCDC without incident where she was booked on the charge of Trespassing After Notice.
Chamber of Commerce, the KC School District and Camden Military Academy with beneficiary support by the members of the KC Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club of KC and Associated Charities of KC.
The graduates and guests heard special remarks on leadership by keynote speaker Danny Templar, Administrator of Kershaw County. Also addressing those in attendance were students representing each
of the participating schools. They included Emma McCutcheon of CHS, Caleb Terrell of CMA, Hayden Stokes of LEHS and Jasmine Cruz Salinas of NCHS.
Cooper Quigley of NCHS received the Robert J. Sheheen Outstanding Junior Leadership Student of the Year award, which honors the former Kershaw County state representative and Speaker of the House. The award recognizes a student who demonstrates exemplary leadership qualities during the program year.
The program for this class began last August and continued throughout the school year. These sessions covered economic development, public speaking, local government, and social issues. The program also featured a ropes challenge and team-building course at Camp Canaan in Rock Hill.
Chaos To Redemption Presented This Weekend
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Tonight, June 6 at 7pm and tomorrow June 7 at 3pm the Jubilee Theater located at New Life Christian Outreach on 411 Hwy. 601South in Lugoff will present an original musical drama entitled Chaos to Redemption by Marney L. Wooldridge writer, director, performer, and producer. Admission is free, and donations are encouraged.
Marney began writing this work in November 2024. First, she said she sat at her dining room table and prayed and asked the Holy Spirit to help guide her actions. The Lord gave her the title as a prophetic message to all those who will watch and attend the show. It took her about a month to write the play, but she continually fine-tuned the story after she started casting the roles.
Her son Camden-Wesley Wooldridge developed the first piece of music for the dance entitled Chaos to show chaos after the Rapture. The second dance is Salvation.
Marney said, “I believe the Lord is telling me this is a global message, but also an individual message that those who have Chaos in their life God wants to bring Redemption. I believe that the world is about to see a lot more chaos.
Marney continued, “He is asking people which cup will you drink from… a cup of wrath and destruction or a cup of redemption and righteousness?
“There are approximately twenty-five characters in the play as well as twelve choir members directed by Reverend Dionne Hough. Several individuals play more than one role. The main characters are Reverend Hough, and her role has developed and grown. Pastor Steve Lee of Mt. Olivet Church, Ryan McNeely, Pastor Bruce Marthers of First Assembly of God, Youth Pastor Jesse Trimnal of Antioch Baptist Church, and Camden-Wesley Wooldridge. The narrator is Jackie McNeely. and dance troupe used by God to spread His word in theatrical form. The
core mission is to the tell the good news of Yahweh by utilizing the arts while also connecting people together and showing the Father's love in whatever the guiding venture. The setting of the play is in 2025. The focus is that every choice one will make will determine the future whether good or bad. The play shows that many choose their own path, and now they are left in chaos. The play is dedicated to lost souls.
“Behind the scenes is the creativity of the Holy Spirit. Thanks to Reverend Dionne Hough for the media and sound; tech and lights Gene Brown; to Henry Powers and Gene Brown for allowing Chaos to Redemption to come to the stage. The videographer is Ally Nelson, a graduate from SCAD with a BFA in film and TV.
Marney went on to add, “The vision God gave me is that there is a layer upon layer. He could create us all in one moment, but He chose to build upon the layers in six days, and then He rested.
“I had a vision. I wrote. I cast it. I choreographed. We began rehearsals, dances, shared visual ideas and sounds with Reverend Hough. She helped me as well as others to bring the message to life. God gave me the personalities of each character, and Reverend Hough helped me bring forth the songs.
“Special thanks to the dancers: Amy Matthews, Michelle Sanders, Abby Stone, and Jess King and special thanks to Jubilee Theater. In God we trust.”
Marney is a graduate of North Central High School where her mother Barbara Wilkes, a seven-time Hall of Fame recipient, was the first woman athletic director in South Carolina and inducted in the Shaggers’ Hall of Fame. Marney graduated from Columbia College, and earned her Master’s from Texas Women’s University. Marney is a massage therapist and a Pilates instructor at The Fitness Zone. Like her mother, Marney enjoys dancing and exercising; however, she excels in modern theatrical dance, not shag.
Chaos to Redemption will compel the audience to search for the truth in their lives and share God’s message to the “others in the world we live.”
educators to gather together and honor the impact of teachers past, pres
mances. It is going to be a special blessing for our community. Hope to see you at New Life Christian Outreach (411 Hwy. 601 South in Lugoff)
ent 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.”
Central high schools participated in Kershaw County School District’s Annual Future Educator Signing Day. The event celebrated students who have decided to pursue careers in the field of education.
Rotary Clubs of Kershaw County Announce Scholarship Recipients
These 14 students will receive $4,000 each. Funding for these scholarships comes from Rotary's Wild Game Dinner held in March each year.
From North Central High School: Representing Rotary is Dan Matthews; Nataleigh Baker, Addison Bittner and Mary Norwood. Home School: Kaiser Schofield.
From Lugoff-Elgin High School: Olivia Atkinson, Landen Hall, Watson Harvley, Andrea Kish and Success Odigili. Representing Rotary is Matt Irick.
From Camden High School: Representing Rotary is Alfred Mae Drakeford: Hope O'Bradovich, Kensie McGee, Emma McCutcheon, and twins Jazira Meagley and Jadin Meagley.
Community Band Scholarships
Landon Altman. Both are seniors at Lugoff-Elgin High School and both will attend Winthrop University in the Fall. Each received a $1,000 scholarship.
Pictured above, left to right; Cheryl Black, Amber Price, Tara Price, Roxi Price, Nancy Wylie, Landon Altman, Amanda Altman and Robert Wertz.
Small Business Summer Workshop Series
The City of Camden continues to host a summer series of small business workshops at the Camden branch of the Kershaw County Library. Kat Spadacenta, Community Development Coordinator, and representatives from the business support community will lead workshops for small business owners and any member of the public wishing to attend. Workshops will be held on Tuesday June 3, Thursday June 12, Thursday July 10, and Tuesday July 29 at the Camden Library Branch, 1304 Broad Street. All workshops are from 6:00 to 7:00 pm.
June 3 – Make Sure Your Business is Seen Online
These days, it’s necessary to have your business found online. Learn how to make the most of Google Search, Google Business Profile, Trends, and what you need to achieve on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, to make sure you are seen by potential customers and loyal followers alike. Bring a laptop to this workshop.
June 12 – How to Get Started in Business!
Do you know the difference between a C Corp, Subchapter s, LLC, Partnership or Sole Proprietorship? Which is better for you? How much
Ft. Clark Baptist Seeks Lead Musician
Fort Clark Baptist Church is searching for a Lead Musician. This person must be proficient at organ/piano and all genres of gospel music. If you or someone you know are interested, scan the QR code for a job description. Please email resumes to ftclarkmedia@gmail.com
5th
does it cost to get started? Where to incorporate? Where will you pay the least amount of taxes? What about accounting? Small business consultant Jeffrey Cooper will have all your questions answered.
July 10 – Learn the Basics of Google Ads
It doesn’t take a huge budget to market your business! In this workshop, you will learn how to reach more customers and grow your business with Google Ads. Learn how to create an account and set up an ad campaign, write great ads, refine keywords, and include ad extensions, and measure success. Bring a laptop to this workshop.
July 29 - Financing Your Business
In this workshop, led by small business consultant Jeffrey Cooper, you will be able to identify the different types of financing and their requirements and pitfalls. What are the basic needs to obtain financing for your small business? What is right for you?
For more information, visit www.kershawcountylibrary.org or www.experiencecamdensc.com.
Annual Juneteenth Celebration
The Kershaw County community is invited to join in the spirit of unity and solidarity during the 5th Annual Kershaw County Juneteenth Celebration on Friday, June 13th from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Camden City Arena. Join in this celebration of the richness of African American culture and history.
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Today, Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It’s a time for reflection and rejoicing. A time for assessment, self-improvement, and planning for the future.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their personal lawn chairs. There is no cost for any food or beverages being served. Enjoy a hot dog or perhaps some fried fish and fries, all free of charge.
The Liberty Stage at Camden City Arena will showcase various artists and community leaders offering cultural expressions to celebrate the 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration. There will be music for all; poets and dancers will also take the stage, and special guests.
offering D.O.T. Certi ed Physicals for
Don’t miss the Empowerment Fair, where various organizations will provide valuable information to improve the quality of life for our citizens. Gather important resources from organizations like DHEC, healthcare providers, bankers, and more. There will be something for everyone to enjoy and learn from.
You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase small items from a few vendors, but remember, no food or entertainment comes with a cost. This event is not a fundraiser, but a FUN-raiser for the entire community!
Come celebrate with the Kershaw County community on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 4 PM to 8 PM at the Camden City Arena, 420 Broad Street. For additional information, please call 803-4250793 or email alifebullders@gmall.com.
United Way Recognizes Contributions
United Way of Kershaw County is proud to recognize three remarkable individuals whose dedication, compassion, and tireless community service have left a lasting mark on our region. The organization celebrated the
son Award for Community Service
Jamie and Frances Guy have been awarded the 2024 Jake Watson Award for Community Service, recognizing their steadfast commitment to making Kershaw County a better place. As active members of Bethesda Presbyterian Church, the Guys embody humility and generosity in their daily lives.
extraordinary contributions of Jamie and Frances Guy, Dr. Cindy Dieringer, and Ann Davis—each honored with prestigious awards that reflect a legacy of selflessness and community care.
tey Caring Hearts Award
Jamie has long served as a guardian ad litem, advocating for the rights and well-being of children, while both Jamie and Frances volunteer with organizations such as the Community Medical Clinic and Hospice.
Frances’s homemade treats are a cherished gift to many, and Jamie’s involvement with Rotary exemplifies his civic-minded spirit. Their deep devotion to family and their community makes them shining examples of service and compassion.
The late Dr. Cindy Dieringer was posthumously honored with the inaugural William and Katie Cantey Caring Hearts Award, which celebrates individuals who embody the Canteys’ legacy of compassion and commitment to affordable housing and community uplift. Known for her brilliance, wit, and boundless empathy, Dr. Dieringer served in numerous medical leadership roles including Medical Director and EMS Director at Kershaw Health. Beyond her professional achievements, she was deeply involved in the arts, the Christian Community Ministries food pantry, Community Medical Clinic, the Humane Society of Kershaw County, and United Way’s New Day Transitional Housing program. The award was presented by Dr. Tallulah Holmstrom and accepted by close friends Darlene Maxwell, Vicky Moody, and Sarah Jowers, who continue to honor her legacy.
ent of the Anne Dallas Volunteer of the Year Award, recognizing her extraordinary impact over more than four decades of service. As a dedicated United Way board member, co-chair of Concerned Citizens of Kershaw County, and active member of the NAACP, Ann has worked tirelessly to promote civic engagement and community equity. Her leadership spans organizing town halls, cultural events, and direct advocacy, all while maintaining a personal touch— whether through handwritten notes or heartfelt conversations. As a retired educator, she continues to mentor and uplift young people, always leading with grace, resilience, and an unwavering moral compass. “To know Ann Davis is to have a friend for life,” said Mary Ann Byrd, former Executive Director of Communications for Kershaw County School District. “She is most deserving of this recognition.”
KC Awarded Grant To Protect Water Quality
Kershaw County is excited to announce a grant award from the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) to protect water quality in the Lake Wateree Watershed. This project is being funded, in part, by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and made possible by the SCDES. The $199,399 grant will allow Kershaw County and partnering organizations to work with homeowners within the watershed to identify and repair or replace failing septic systems. This award follows a previous 319 grant awarded through SCDES in the Twenty-Five Mile Creek Watershed which also addressed bacteria and nutrient sources from failing septic systems.
This project is the first 319 grant to be implemented in the Lake Wateree Watershed. Lake Wateree serves many important uses for the surrounding population, including its use as a source of drinking water for the City of Camden and the Lugoff-Elgin Water Authority, recreational uses for residents, and agricultural and industrial uses. Septic system failure is one of many non-point sources (NPS) that have the potential to cause bacteria and nutrient loading and algal blooms in the Lake Wateree area. Septic systems are widely used to treat sewage from residences and
businesses throughout the watershed. As development in the Lake Wateree Watershed increases, it becomes increasingly imperative to limit the amount of bacteria and nutrients entering Lake Wateree.
The Lake Wateree Septic 319 Project will provide up to 60% cost share assistance to homeowners within the watershed for septic repair or replacement to protect and improve water quality. For example, if a septic system repair or replacement costs $7,000, then the homeowner would be required to pay $2,800 directly to the contractor, and after the County has inspected and approved the completed repair/replacement, the grant would pay the septic contractor the remaining $4,200. Applicants will be required to provide a completed application and two quotes for repairing or replacing their system (or three quotes if total cost is greater than $10,000). Because limited funding is available, septic systems in close proximity to tributaries, streams, or Lake Wateree will be prioritized. Kershaw County residents of the Lake Wateree Watershed who are interested in applying for grant support to repair or replace their failing septic systems may email Lucas Clifford at lucas.clifford@wsp.com, or call 803-451-3679.
School Is NOT Out For Your SROs
As teachers and students started their first week of summer break, your KCSO School Resource Officers (SROs) had a full week of in-service training, active intruder, PT tests, firearms qualification, first aid, defensive driving, policy updates, required academy updates, and much more. Your SROs are very committed to their training for our children.
We try to keep your SROs in their schools while school is in. This means the majority of their training takes place when school is out. Don’t worry, they will get some vacation time too.
Lugoff Fire-Rescue Receives $17K Grant
Duke Energy recently awarded Lugoff Fire-Rescue with a $17,500 grant for chainsaws and personal protective equipment (PPE).
The grant, submitted by Battalion Chief Chris Jones, will allow Lugoff Fire-Rescue to obtain up to 11 chainsaws and 11 sets of personal protective equipment. These items will help Lugoff Fire-Rescue provide better response and recovery during weather related disasters.
From a late afternoon thunderstorm to a large hurricane, Lugoff FireRescue will now be better equipped to assist our area partners from South Carolina Department of Transportation and Kershaw County Public works, ensuring our roadways are safe and clear. The equipment also has other uses during emergencies including fires, roadway incidents, and more.
Standardization of chainsaws will help Lugoff Fire-Rescue reduce maintenance costs by being able to stock standard parts for continued support of the chainsaws. Training will be enhanced and shortened because of faster familiarization with equipment.
Awarded under Duke Energy’s Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO) grant program, Lugoff Fire-Rescue was one of 38 nonprofits and government agencies across South Carolina that competitively sought after a total of $500,000 of funding this year. Grants were capped at a maximum request of $20,000.
“Thank you to Duke Energy for your continued support of Lugoff Fire Department in obtaining the equipment we need to serve the community” said Fire Chief Chris Spitzer.
