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Letter Submissions
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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The Elgin News will not knowingly publish factually incorrect information.
Only letters written exclusively to the newspaper will be published. Letters to a third party or those written to more than one newspaper are not accepted.
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All letters must be signed and include the writer's street address or route address telephone number, which will be used for verification purposes only.
We welcome your input. You may write to us by e-mail at elginnews@gmail.com or by regular mail at:
Letters to the Editor
The Elgin News P.O. Box 152 Elgin, SC 29045
Cate Goff, Editor (803) 513-5108
News From KC Council
By: Councilman Derek Shoemake
This past Independence Day, like many of you, I took a moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy—freedoms that were not given, but earned through the sacrifice of brave Americans. While I usually use this space to provide updates on County Council business, today I want to pause and honor the many veterans who have lived in, passed through, and left their mark on Kershaw County.
Our community has long stood as a quiet witness to history, home to patriots from every era. General Joseph Brevard Kershaw, born in Camden in 1822, answered the call of duty in both the Mexican-American War and the Civil War, rising to major general. Though history will always weigh the complexities of his time, Kershaw’s leadership and devotion to duty underscore the long bond between this county and military service. His name now marks our county and our legacy.
Letter To The Editor
I recently had the opportunity to donate a handicap ramp that belonged to my late husband, Jim Timmerberg. What followed was a beautiful example of community kindness and generosity that I feel compelled to share.
With just a brief mention to Linda at E&T Hardware in Elgin, she immediately connected me with Harvey Gardner and Robby Stockman. From there, an incredible group of volunteers— including members of the VFW, Pine Grove Church, friends, family, and even a couple of grandsons—came together to carefully remove the ramp.
It was heartwarming to witness such selfless teamwork. These are the quiet good deeds that often go unnoticed but truly define what it means to be part of a caring community. dignity. In doing so, it will carry on Jim’s legacy in the most meaningful way. He believed in quiet, powerful acts of good, and I know he would be proud.
Above, volunteers worked together to relocate a handicap ramp for Betty Timmerberg.
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Disorderly Conduct: While Officer was sitting on Rose Street, which is within the town limits of Elgin, they were approached by one Subject, who was speaking about having a problem with the cashier at the Circle K. Subject told Officer that he was wishing to file a complainant about the cashier that was up there for being disrespectful to him in the past. Officer informed Subject that he would have to speak with a business manager about that to which Subject stated that he would just go up to the location and "slap the $&^% out of that gay man." Subject further stated that the next time that he went up there he was going to get behind the counter and smack him. Officer was unaware of any kind of civil disturbance that had occurred at the Circle K, recently or otherwise, and went to make contact with the other mentioned party. Officer arrived at the Circle K and made contact with Victim, the night shift employee at the location. Victim stated that he had been having problems with Subject for the last few weeks. Victim stated that Subject would enter the location and seemingly out of nowhere just begin insulting and threatening Victim, calling him a "faggot" while also threatening to come behind the counter to beat him up. Victim stated that on this night, Subject was walking toward the Circle K from the Bojangles and Victim could hear him mumbling about hoping that "faggot" was at the store because he was going to "beat his @$$". Victim stated that Subject never came inside but did sit outside on the curb, which is when Victim approached him and told him to get off the property. Victim stated that after this was said Subject continued with being verbally aggressive before he ultimately left from the location. Victim expressed to Officer that he wished to have Subject placed on trespass from the location due to all the aggressive behavior. Officer stated a trespass form and advised Victim that it would be served the following day 6/28 and a copy of the completed form would be dropped off once it had been served. The following day, Officer observed Subject walking down the side of Main Street and made contact with him. Subject was advised that he was being trespassed from the location as well as the consequences of returning to the location after the notice was served. Subject signed and took his copy before a second copy was dropped off at the Circle K for their records.
Assault/Intimidation: Reporting officer was approached by the manager of a local business, Pizza Hut which is located within the Town limits of Elgin at 2465 Main Street in reference to an irate customer threatening her staff. The Complainant, the stores General Manager, stated that she had been contacted by her Manager on 6/26/2025 and was informed that a customer had gotten verbally aggressive with both Managers that were working that night before she ultimately threatened to kill the staff inside the building that night. Complainant and another representative of the business were able to provide R/O with a copy of the transaction receipt for the order placed by the Suspect as well as sound clips of the audio recorded line from when Suspect called the store. These audio clips were emailed to R/O, who was also able to listen to them while taking this report. Suspect contacted the store a total of 5 times from the time that she placed her order at 2141. The first two times she was simply checking on the order, however on the third phone call approximately 45 minutes after she ordered, she became irate and aggressive, stating that she had waited over an hour for her food and wanted to know where the hell it was at. Manager 1, the manager that spoke with Suspect initially, stated that once Suspect began cursing at her she hung up the phone and informed the Manager 2 about the situation. When Suspect called again, Manager 2 picked up the phone and began attempting to assist the woman but was immediately met with cursing. Manager 2 advised the woman that she would be unable
to help if the woman continued cursing and acting the way that she was. Suspect did not stop her behavior and Manager 2 hung up on her. Suspect then called a third time, speaking with Manager 2 again, and continued with the aggressive and vulgar language however this time when Manager 2 was getting ready to hang up the phone Suspect stated "I live 3 minutes away. I'm coming up there to kill y'all." Manager 2 stated that after that threat was made, she informed Manager 1. Both woman stated that they felt as though the woman would be coming up to the store and were scared to the point of locking the front door despite the fact that they were not closed. Manager 2 stated they even began asking customers that approached the door who they were prior to letting them inside because they were scared due to the threat the woman had made. An officer was called to the location on the night of the incident and told of the situation to possibly prevent anything from happening. Officer took the name that they were given and ran it through SC DMV to possibly obtain a photo of the suspect. When Officer narrowed their search to just Elgin, Officer got back a single result that showed an address that matched the address that was listed on the delivery order that had been placed with Pizza Hut.
Shoplifting: On 7-4-25 at approximately 1035, Officer responded to Family Dollar in reference to an attempted shoplifting. Upon arrival, I made contact with the Manager who stated the same male that shoplifted on 07-02-2025 attempted to steal ice cream today and pointed at the suspect who was riding a bicycle in front of the building. I made contact with the male and identified him as Subject. I identified Subject by his South Carolina ID. Subject stated he did not take any items from the store and did not have anything on his person belonging to the store. Due to him not being in possession of any stolen items during this interaction, I went back to the store manager who requested Subject to be placed on trespass from the property and to be charged. I found Subject and served him with a notice of trespass, Subject signed the form. While speaking with Manager, she informed me that Subject shoplifted on 06-24-2025, 07-02-2025, and attempted to shoplift on 07-04-2025. Manager has video of all three incidents and was able to show me. On 06-24-2025, Subject entered the store and walked to the coolers on the right side of the building. Subject walked to the ice cream section and took a 6 pack of Klondike originals. Subject then placed the item in the front of his pants concealing the item. Subject then exits the store, passing all points of sale without paying depriving the store of full retail value of $5. This incident case number is 25-0700398. During the incident on 07-02-2025, per the stores security video, Subject entered the store and walked to the coolers on the right side of the building. Subject walked over to the ice cream section and took a 6 pack of Klondike originals and placed the item inside of his pants to conceal the item. Subject then exited the store passing all points of sales without paying, depriving the store of full retail value of $5. This incident case number is 25-0700390. On 07-04-2025, Subject entered the store and walked to the coolers on the right side of the building. Subject walked to the ice cream section and placed a box of Magnum ice cream "Cookie Duet" in the front of his pants concealing the item. After placing the item inside of his pants, Subject looked to his left and saw two people witness this incident. One witness being an unidentified female, appeared to be a minor, and a store employee. Subject took the box out of his pants and sat it on a pack of water that was laying on the floor nearby the cooler. This incident case number is 25-0700399. I will complete a warrant request, charging Subject with Shoplifting. The shoplifting charge will be enhanced due to Subject having two prior convictions per his criminal history. Body worn camera was activated.
Get Ready To Party Like It's 1776
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
If I told you that we had a year to plan the biggest celebration our country has ever participated in, would you start planning now? In most counties in our state and in our country, local leaders have been discussing ways to celebrate this event since last April.
Have you determined what this hoopla is all about yet?... The United States of America will celebrate its 250th birthday July 4, 2026. Last January, President Donald Trump issued an executive order 14187 to have our citizens address the anniversary and make plans to celebrate the freedoms so many have fought and died for in our history. America250's website has compiled upcoming milestones and opportunities about the historic moments. According to their website, “It is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation's past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.”
Derek Smith, from Bishopville, an author of 13 books has written extensively on the history of our county. Derrick recently published a book “Revolutionary Camden - SC's bloody epicenter in the War of Independence. In the preface to Derek's book he writes, “The most amazing thing I discovered was the overlooked, but the crucial part that Camden played in the Revolutionary War. Two major battles were fought there as well as more than a dozen lesser clashes in the general vicinity. Camden itself was central to the British army's plan to quell the rebellion in the South and gradually smother it completely after Charleston’s capture. In May 1780, the British established a chain of outposts across South Carolina. ‘Camden, … the critical link as a stronghold inland base of operations and supply depot during the last year of the war the history of the state and of the United States was making in that small district of which Camden was the capital’ stated a 1905 account.”
SHOEMAKE continued from Page 2
A century later, Richmond Hobson Hilton carried that same legacy to the battlefields of France in World War I. In 1918, under withering fire, Sergeant Hilton charged a German machine-gun nest, killing or capturing more than a dozen enemy soldiers—even after losing an arm. He received the Medal of Honor and numerous international awards. His grave in Old Quaker Cemetery remains a place of solemn reflection for those who remember his courage.
Our roll call of heroes doesn’t stop there. Donald Leroy Truesdell, a Marine who fought in Nicaragua, also earned the Medal of Honor. John Canty Villepigue, another WWI hero, and Richard Rowland Kirkland, the “Angel of Marye’s Heights” during the Civil War, remind us that courage and compassion go hand in hand. These names—etched in stone in our cemeteries and echoed in our schools—are part of who we are.
But our honors are not confined to the distant past. Step inside the control room at the Kershaw County Airport and you’ll see the name of Retired Col. Loren Webb, a Vietnam veteran whose service continued long after the war, guiding civilian and military aviation alike. And Major General Julian “J.B.” Burns—retired U.S. Army officer and former County Council Chairman—has spent his post-military life preserving the memory of veterans and championing causes that support them. And then there are veterans like Patrick Payne. Patrick walked our streets, and lived the values we hold dear. He joined the military to serve something greater than himself and did so with honor and distinction – earning the Medal of Honor in 2020 for his courageous rescue of 70
After reading Derek’s book, I decided to do some additional research about the part Kershaw County played in our struggle against the British who had the most well trained and recognized army in the world at that time. The Wateree River, which divides the Lugoff-Elgin area from Camden, played an eventful role in the skirmishes and events along the river that took place at (local Loyalist Thomas Carey) Carey’s Fort built to guard the Wateree Ferry about a mile down river from Camden. American patriots such as Francis Marion (The Swamp Fox) and Thomas Sumter (The Gamecock) eluded the trained infantry from Great Britain.
Jeff Pearson, son of the late Camden City Manager Mel Pearson and his wife Delaine, wrote the following tribute to Kershaw County in his recent best seller, “The Life Unlived” …it stands for courage. Larry Doby, the first black man to play baseball for the American League hails from Camden, Major General Baron deKalb, a French military officer, who served in the Continental Army, lost his life for our freedom in the Battle of Camden during the Revolutionary War. The Camden area is home to at least four recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor with one awarded for actions taken in the past few years to Lugoff-Elgin High graduate 2002 Sergeant Major Thomas Patrick Payne who served over 17 combat deployments. September 11, 2020, President Trump awarded Payne the Medal of Honor for a rescue operation in October 2015. Payne, despite heavy enemy gunfire and orders to evacuate a collapsed building, stayed behind to see the mission accomplished. He freed 70 Iraqi prisoners.
Chief Warrant Officer United States Marine Corps (1924 -1946) Donald Truesdell of Lugoff received the Congressional Medal of Honor for actions during the occupation of Nicaragua during World War II. He attempted to throw away a rifle grenade at the cost of his losing his right arm; however, he saved the lives of his soldiers. He was born in 1906 and died in 1987. He is remembered by most students, teachers, parents, and the community for his dedication as a crossing guard at Lugoff Elementary.
Courage is a quality that everyday heroes demonstrate in times of conflict. One never knows when that moment will occur. Thank you to all our heroes past and present!
prisoners Iraq. Patrick’s commitment to his fellow soldiers and to freedom itself captures the very spirit of Independence Day. He is one of many modern veterans who continue to give back to our community and our country.
The individuals I’ve named here represent only a fraction of the generations who have served. The HonorStates database lists over 100 men and women from Kershaw County who gave their lives in uniform. (https://www.honorstates.org) Their stories may not always make headlines, but their legacy is all around us—in our peace, our rights, and our continued prosperity.
As your County Councilman, I remain committed to honoring our veterans not just with words, but with action. From ensuring access to services through our Veterans Affairs Office to supporting initiatives that help veterans and their families, I believe we must show our gratitude through meaningful support.
This Independence Day—and every day—may we remember that our liberty came at a cost. And that cost was paid by people from Elgin, Lugoff, Camden, and every corner of this county. We honor them not just with parades and fireworks, but with enduring gratitude and support.
God bless our veterans. God bless Kershaw County. And God bless the United States of America.
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.
Elgin Community Center Opening
The Town of Elgin proudly celebrated the grand opening of its long-awaited Community Center—a dream in the making since 2009. Through years of diligent saving, along with strong support from both state legislators and County Council, the town transformed vision into reality. Inspired by Blaney’s railroad heritage, the building’s design reflects the charm of a historic freight depot, complete with wood beams, trusses, and large telescoping doors. This 2,500 sq. ft. facility includes a warming kitchen, utility rooms, and space for the Blaney-Elgin Museum. The project stands as a testament to collaboration, dedication, and community spirit.
Annual Kid's 4th of July Parade in Camden
Photos courtesy Kendall Horner.
United Way of Kershaw County invites the community to celebrate summer—and support a great cause—at its highly anticipated Summer Bash, happening Saturday, July 19 from 7:00 to 11:00 PM at 1011 Galleria in Camden.
This unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and community spirit will feature a highenergy live performance by the Jebb Mac Band, known for blending Johnny Cash, Eminem, and original Southern soul. Guests will enjoy an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and a casual, relaxed atmosphere perfect for kicking back and connecting with friends and neighbors.
Books on Broad Presents Mother Emanuel Author KCSD Registration Now Open United Way's Summer Bash
Tickets are available now at https://tinyurl. com/summerbashuwkc or can be purchased directly from United Way of Kershaw County. All proceeds from the event support United Way of Kershaw County’s mission to improve lives and strengthen the local community through programs focused on:
• Health & Hunger: including mobile nutrition units, community gardens, summer food programs, and fresh food boxes
• Education: such as the Ready Readers initiative
• Financial Stability & Housing: including the New Day Transitional Housing Program, Homeless Outreach, Fresh Start Mobile Shower & Laundry services, and the Young Adult Housing program
“This isn’t just a party—it’s a chance to make a real impact in Kershaw County,” said Donny Supplee. “We’re inviting everyone to come out, have fun, and help us continue building a healthier, stronger, and more connected community.”
Join Books on Broad for an evening with Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Kevin Sack, author of Mother Emanuel: Two Centuries of Race, Resistance, and Forgiveness in One Charleston Church, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Liberty Hall, Revolutionary War Visitor Center, 212 Broad Street, Camden, SC. The event will include an author talk, audience Q&A, and book signing. Admission is free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase at the event or in advance at Books on Broad, 944 Broad Street.
About the Book
Mother Emanuel tells the remarkable story of Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Known for its deep historical roots and pivotal role in African American history, the church drew international attention in 2015 after a tragic mass shooting claimed the lives of nine worshippers during a Bible study. In this sweeping narrative, Sack explores two centuries of resilience, resistance, and faith—from the church’s founding in 1817 through the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Movement, and its powerful message of forgiveness in the modern era.
About the Author
Kevin Sack is a veteran journalist and three-time Pulitzer Prize winner. For over four decades, he has reported on national affairs and race for The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Known for his in-depth narrative storytelling, Sack brings history to life through the lens of one extraordinary congregation. He lives in Charleston, South Carolina. Books on Broad is an independent bookstore and co ee shop located in downtown Camden.
Families of returning Kershaw County School District students—including families who completed their pre-kindergarten or kindergarten students’ initial enrollment this spring—should have received an email with their students’ registration codes and instructions to complete the online registration process on Monday, July 7.
New KCSD students should contact their zoned school to begin the registration process. Schools will have a special registration help day on July 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. for families who do not have internet access or who need assistance with registration.
This year all new students, students with a new address, and students going into grades 6 and 9 will be required to upload three documents for proof of residency. Examples of these documents include a photo I.D., a recent tax document for vehicles or primary residence, recent payroll check, bank document, mortgage, real estate purchase contract, rental/lease agreement or power or water bill.
Please complete this online registration as soon as possible as we will use the information provided to develop student schedules and determine teacher assignments that will be sent to families electronically before the first day of school on August 4. As a reminder, four- and five-yearold kindergartners will begin school on a staggered start schedule for the 2025-2026 school year.
All students in Kershaw County School District will receive free breakfast and lunch during the 2025-2026 school year as part of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program. Parents do not need to complete a Free and Reduced Meal Application.
Demon Elite Youth Football and Cheer
By: Karen Robinson, Guest Writer
As summer heats up, so does the excitement surrounding the Demon Elite Youth Football & Cheer programs, which are emerging as one of the strongest in the Midlands’ youth sports scene. Based in LugoffElgin and deeply connected to the town’s proud football history, Demon Elite is gearing up for an energetic 2025 season centered on positive youth development, resulting in athletic achievement, mentorship, team building, and community pride.
The Demon Elite program founded in 2023 by a coalition of dedicated parents, coaches, military veterans, and local leaders to give back to the community's youth through sports. Demon Elite serves boys and girls aged 5 to 18, offering tackle football in the fall, flag football in the spring, and cheerleading for the following age groups: 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, 13U, and 18U.
Mission & Mantra
Demon Elite Youth Football is an inclusive program dedicated to fostering confidence and self-worth in young athletes, beyond the gridiron and into their schools, families, and communities. Based in Lugoff, South Carolina, we proudly serve Kershaw and surrounding counties with a commitment to teamwork, responsibility, and personal development.
Participation in youth sports not only enhances physical abilities but also cultivates social and emotional growth. Our players and cheerleaders transform their skills into achievements while building a network of friends, support, and trust. Demon Elite is more than football and cheer; it’s a family. Train like a champion. Cheer like a star. Compete with heart. That’s the Demon Elite Way.
Our Mantra
1. Develop young men and women
2. Build community leaders
3. Play football and cheer with dignity, respect for self, teammates, and opponents
Co-founder Bernard West: “We started Demon Elite because we believe in building strong athletes, and even stronger individuals.” To support his claims, co-founder Neal McMillan said, “Every practice, every game, every cheer is a step toward a brighter future for our youth.” Every coach,
mentor, and leader involved in The Demon Elite program is committed to improving each participant's performance in sports, in life, and for their future.
The Demon Elite program is dedicated to youth development by providing a safe and structured environment where athletes of all skill levels can develop their abilities to achieve excellence. It builds football and cheer skills through a values-driven organization. The core values of discipline, respect, leadership, and academic responsibility are emphasized and utilized to foster growth in every participant, resulting in the Demon Elite Trophy case. These victories showcase the team’s competitive grit and rigorous training, but for The Demon Elite, character is just as vital as winning championships.
The Demon Elite program helps to fill the pipeline of pride by maintaining a close relationship with Lugoff-Elgin High School (LEHS), the home of the Demons. The program shares practice facilities with LEHS and Stover Middle School.
Big Dates Ahead
• Team Jamboree – Saturday, August 16, 2025
• Home Game (LEHS) vs. SC Chiefs – Saturday, August 23, 2025
Whether you’re a player, parent, or proud supporter, these are mustattend moments to see the energy and effort that define Demon Elite.
The Demon Elite program has affordable registration and a commitment to developing well-rounded youth. Why Join Demon Elite?
• Comprehensive age divisions, allowing athletes to grow at their own pace
• Support from local schools and school staff
• Focus on character development through mentorship and discipline
• Coaching with years of experience at many levels
• Competitive events including jamborees, tournaments, and home games
• Financial support available through scholarships and uniform sponsorships
If you would like more information on how to get involved, visit our website, www.demonelite.com, call us at (803) 310 1130, or email demonelitefootball@gmail.com. We are also on social media as Demon
KCSO Honors Reserve Deputies
Your KCSO had a retirement party for three of your KCSO Reserve Deputies on June 27th. They have served our citizens in a voluntary capacity (non-paid) for nearly 45 years combined.
Corporal Troy Miller (25+ years)
Corporal Jason Cox (13 years)
Corporal JR Scott (6 years)
“We will never be able to pay our law enforcement officers what they are worth. These three deputies are extra special because they did the job for free. I have nothing but respect for their selfless service.”
- Sheriff Lee Boan
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!!!
McLeod Retires From KC
The end of an era occurred on July 3rd when Billie McLeod retired as Register of Deeds. Billie's first day at Kershaw County was October 30, 1978 in the Clerk of Court's Office with Edward Ogburn as Clerk of Court.
The SC Legislature created the Register of Deeds in 2001 and Billie became our ROD July 22, 2002. That is also when her office and many administration offices moved from the Courthouse to the former Belk Building, site of the current Government Center.
Along with Edward Ogburn, Billie has worked with Clerks Barbara Reeves, Tillie Goodson and Joyce McDonald.
FFA Chapter, Kylie Tucker, traveled to Greenville, South Carolina, from June 16 to 19, 2025, to run for election to serve as a South Carolina State Officer. Only six students are elected to represent our state each year. There were 16 candidates this year, representing all regions of SC. During this process, State Officer Candidates are required to take a test, go through rounds of interviews, and deliver several speeches to both the nominating committee and the FFA members of South Carolina. Being elected is a huge honor. Kylie will be serving as the State Secretary for the 2025-2026 year. The State Officers will travel across the state to be an agricultural advocate, provide leadership and career training to FFA members, build positive relationships across the state and nation, and serve as the face of the South Carolina FFA Association.
WTC Kershaw County FFA member Kylie Tucker is elected to State FFA Office. Audrey Cathacart is the agriculture teacher and FFA advisor for the WTC Kershaw County FFA Chapter.
South Carolina agricultural education serves more than 12,000 students across the state. Students receive instruction in one of five different pathways within the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources career cluster. The South Carolina FFA Association is comprised of over 7,000 members across the state. The mission of the SC FFA Association is to develop premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.
Pictured left to right: Cpl. Jason Cox, Cpl. Troy Miller, Cpl. JR Scott
Pictured above: Senators Allen Blackmon, left, and Jeffrey Graham present a flag that was flown over the State Capital and a Certificate honoring Billie McLeod for
