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Letters to the Editor
The Elgin News P.O. Box 152 Elgin, SC 29045
Cate Goff, Editor (803) 513-5108
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.
Elgin Town Council Discusses Community Center Progress, Grants, and Resident Concerns
The Elgin Town Council convened for its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday evening, July 1, 2025, with Mayor Melissa Emmons leading the session and all council members present. The meeting began with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by unanimous approval of the June 3 meeting minutes and the evening’s agenda.
New Business Licenses and Community Requests
Council reviewed and approved several new business license applications, reflecting continued economic activity in the town. Notable additions include Compass Realty, Josh & Alec Italian Ice, and Bilt Rite Corporation. Two charity events by Josh & Alec Italian Ice were also approved, supporting mission fundraising efforts at local establishments.
Resident Concerns Aired
The public forum featured Bubba Ernst, who expressed concern over a neighbor’s newly installed six-foot privacy fence. He, along with Betina Burris, filed formal complaints about the same issue. Mr. Ernst also submitted an employee-related complaint.
Community Center Nears Completion
Councilman Brad Hanley provided an update on the much-anticipated Elgin Community Center. The sprinkler system’s controller has been relocated, and outstanding items on the construction punch list are being addressed. A motion passed to finalize the Community Center Rental Agreement with updated fee and guideline language. Mayor Emmons announced that the Grand Opening will feature the firing of a 3-pound Grasshopper Cannon.
Police Department Updates
Chief Alan Anders shared several key developments with the Elgin Police Department (EPD). Lt. Ed Hines was honored as Officer of the Quarter. EPD has been awarded an $11,000 grant to purchase new body armor. In addition, the department sold an older vehicle to fund a motor replacement in a spare unit and donated a vehicle cage to the Edgeville Police Department.
Museum Lease Approved
Council unanimously adopted a lease agreement for the local museum, which includes clearly defined hours of operation and key responsibilities.
Council Member Reports
Councilwoman Dana Sloan reminded residents that Chance’s Disposal will begin trash pickup this week. Councilman Paul Rizzo congratulated Jules Lemonds on placing in the top five at the Miss South Carolina Pageant. Councilwoman Cristy Bradley thanked the Pine Forest Subdivision for their help locating her missing cat. Mayor Emmons concluded with a call for community support following the tragic loss of an officer in the Darlington County Sheriff’s Department.
Executive Session and Adjournment
The Council entered into Executive Session to discuss legal and personnel matters, emerging with no further action required. The meeting adjourned at 8:36 p.m. The next regular Town Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.
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The Elgin News, PO Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045 · (803) 513-5108 Cate Goff, Editor · Email: elginnews@gmail.com
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Trespass of Real Property: On 07/21/2025, Elgin Police Officers were dispatched to 2506 Greenhill Rd. (Hidden Treasures) in the Town Limits of Elgin for an active break-in to a business. Dispatch advised there was a black male in a grey Honda trying to make entry to the building, according to the Complainant. Upon our arrival, there was no one on the property and no signs of forced entry to the building. Upon the arrival of the Complainant, she advised the male seen on the property was at a double wide trailer on Greenhill Rd. Ofc. Gilbert and Sgt. Carter (KCSO) went to the trailer and made contact with Subject who admitted to officers that he was there and took a tote out of the donation bin to load with items he planned to donate. After speaking to the owner of Hidden Treasures, it was agreed since it was just an empty tote and it was going to be returned he would like Subject and his girlfriend trespassed from the property. Ofc. Gilbert issued and explained the trespass noticed to Subject and his girlfriend and both stated the understood and would not return to the property.
Fail To Stop For Blue Lights / Medical Issue: On above date and time, Officer was dispatched to IGA within the town limits of Elgin to check on an "older female" that had driven "up on the sidewalk" at Bojangles and was now at the IGA gas pumps in a Blue Toyota Highlander. Officer arrived and made contact and identified Subject by her SCDL. Subject indicated that she was en route to an eye doctor and was "fine" but admitted to feeling a bit odd and anxious about the doctor's visit. She declined EMS response. Further discussion revealed Subject suffered from Macular Degeneration and was en route to get her fourth injection in the eye to retard the disease. When asked about being told not to drive after the injection, she stated she had been told that at the initial visit, but not at subsequent procedures. As a point of clarification, Officer confirmed that she had a driver at the first visit, but not the second and third visits and she agreed. At this point subject was a bit confused, but denied major medical issues indicating she was on medication for high blood pressure which she had taken along with another daily medication she couldn't remember the name of. She further indicated that she had taken a "pill" for her anxiety the name of which she thought started with "CH". A non-standard HGN test was performed and no nystagmus was noted. Subject was given her belongings back and Officer circled through the parking lot
to exit onto Main Street when he observed that the vehicle was exiting southbound onto Main Street and had driven left of the marked lines and into the marked median. An additional unit was requested and Officer activated his overhead blue lights to stop the driver. At this point, the concern was age-related infirmities. Subject ignored the blue lights and, eventually, siren proceeding southbound at a speed of approximately 35 miles per hour. OFficer #2 began to respond. Subject continued to ignore the blue lights and siren, and crossed multiple times left of center over the approximately three miles, continuing at about 35-40 mph in a 45 mph zone. Upon reaching the area where the road opens up to four lanes, Officer #2 moved ahead and began to slow down in front of subject who came to a stop. She advised Officer #2 that she didn't see the blue lights or hear the siren and further elaborated that she had glaucoma in one eye and "was blind" in the other eye. Subject's demeanor was one of increased confusion and her physical abilities were reduced from what was exhibited at the contact just a few minutes prior. She commented that "the pill" must be affecting her. Subject was made comfortable in Officer's car with the air conditioning on, and provided with her sandwich and cold beverage that she had picked up from Bojangles. Contact was made with her family (Witness #1) who responded to pick up her vehicle and take her to the doctor. Due to operational error, the first few minutes of the encounter were not on BWC. Due to timing, the first few moments of the attempt to stop her were not on BWC. Balance of incident recorded and downloaded.
Civil Disturbance: Reporting officer was dispatched to the location, Town Hall which is within the Town limits of Elgin, in reference to a civil disturbance between two people. Reporting Officer as well as Officer #2 arrived on scene and made contact with both halves of the disturbance. Officer made contact with the female half of the altercation, who was identified by her SC DMV profile as Subject who stated that she had been having issued with the male, the driver identified by his SC DL as Complainant. Subject stated that they had decided to go to Charleston earlier that morning and had began having issues while they were there. Subject claimed that it had gotten worse as they traveled and stated that Complainant had laid hands on her as well as locked her inside the car, preventing her from being able to leave him. Subject stated that she had a friend on the phone that would be able to back up everything that she was saying, however when this friend was asked if he had witnessed any of this behavior by Officer #2, he stated that
he hadn't. The friend stated that he had only heard what had been relayed to him through Subject. During the course of attempting to talk to Subject, she had a hard time staying on the topic of the incident. Several times she reached points where she stated that she did not wish to speak specifically to Reporting Officer anymore and wanted to tell her story to another officer. Subject began speaking with Officer #2 and while she was being talked to, she was offered a dress to cover herself (she was in a bikini) and she refused. While Subject was telling her story to Officer #2, Reporting Officer had Dispatch run her and they advised that if she had a tattoo of an Ace of Hearts on her hip than she was wanted out of York County. Confirming the tattoo, Officer placed Subject in cuffs and placed her in the rear of Officer patrol vehicle while a 10 minute hit was sent to York County. Officer spoke with the Complainant about the situation and he stated that they had began having problems the night before not long after the pair had met back up after talking to each other for years over Facebook messenger. Complainant stated that after the initial blow up the night before, Subject had suggested going to the beach the next morning and Complainant agreed to take her. Complainant stated that Subject once again had another blow up while they were in Charleston that caused him to get Law Enforcement involved. Complainant stated that they were initially separated by Charleston Police but when he heard that Subject was stranded he went back to pick up her, which lead to further arguments later down the road. York County confirmed the hit and Subject was informed of the fact that she was going to be booked into the Kershaw County Detention Center and given the opportunity to have Reporting Officer help her put something over her bikini to cover herself. Subject refused and stated that Officer was "going to see her body, 3 kids and all". While on the way to KCDC, Officer attempted to explain to Subject what was going to happen to her and what she would need to do to go about getting her belongings from Complainant's house, however she refused to listen and began speaking utter nonsense in the rear of Officer patrol vehicle. Upon arrival at KCDC, Subject was asked why she hadn't gotten dressed she stated that she couldn't while she was in handcuffs. Officer as well as a fellow female detention staff member offered to remove the cuffs long enough to assist her into a dress/covering to which she refused yet again. Subject was finally booked into KCDC to await pick up from York County.
From Sunblock to School Bells: It’s That Time Again!
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
We have all seen the signs that summer is coming to an end. The daylight hours are shorter as the sun sets in the western skies. The hot temperatures are still way too high in the 90’s.
July 28, the Kershaw County School District officials, teachers, and staff will return to the schools for three days of professional training and two classroom workdays. One week later August 4, all students will return to start their new year.
The return to the school routine as always signaled to me that summer vacation was over. Bus drivers gear up the big yellow school buses, and school supplies are posted in Walmart and online for all schools.
The tax-free shopping weekend is next weekend August 1-3. I am usually not ready for the summer to end, and with the temperatures in the high 90’s, I feel for the young players out on the practice fields who need to be reminded often about staying hydrated.
I laugh and tell my family I stay hydrated by eating tomato sandwiches that do taste better in July and August, and watermelons that are best purchased from roadside stands like Melons for Missions.
It is difficult to realize how the summer days have flown. We made plans in early spring to stay with friends for the Memorial Day weekend at Pawleys Island. They live on Haunting Trail on part of an old plantation year-round. There are three gravestone markers in the front yard. No, I did not see the Gray Man’s ghost; however, it did rain.
My husband's first cousins have experimented with living at the beach for a year. They are trying to decide if the beach is calling them from this area. We have had the opportunity to visit them back in the winter and now summer in North Myrtle Beach. Both times we have visited them, it has been a great get away, but for me after a week anywhere I'm ready to
return home.
Our cousins who have lived at the beach have been torn between the Midlands and the call of the beach. I must admit a beach sunset thrills my soul, and I can easily fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing on the shore. For now, we will just make visits to other places near and far.
I believe this has been one of the busiest summers for everyone. Family and friends have shared their summer plans for traveling to faraway places like Alaska, Hawaii or tours of the Tower of London and the sights of Paris and Rome, I do admit traveling is tempting, but for now I will enjoy the journeys through their Facebook pictures.
I never thought I wanted to retire here. I always thought that I wanted to return to my hometown of Bishopville, but I finally realized that Kershaw County has been my home for 55 years, and now my forever home.
Pool parties, riding jet skis at the lake, local festivals such as The Lizard Man Stomp where there was even dancing in the streets with above 95-degree weather made summer get togethers and celebrations fun. There were no sudden summer storms to cancel July 4th plans here in Kershaw County, especially the firing of the historic grasshopper cannon and the ribbon cutting ceremony in Elgin at the new railroad museum/ community center July 3rd.
Little did we realize as we came together with family and friends to celebrate our national holiday that an unbelievable nightmare was occurring in small-town Kerrville, Texas. Many lives were swept away in the massive flash flooding.
Tragically, most of the victims were young girls who were attending the summer church Camp Mystic. As of our press time, there are questions that there could be from three to over 100 people missing and over 135 victims who lost their lives. More than 25 per cent were children. Many families were camping along the Guadalupe River and drowned as the river surged. President Trump and his wife visited with the families who had lost loved ones, and he called on Dr. Phil to give some advice at a press conference.
Dr. Phil said, “You do not ever get over it. You get through it.”
Nature As Teacher Partners with Kershaw County
Nature as Teacher (NAT) Preserve is proud to announce a significant new partnership with Kershaw County Government. As part of this collaboration, the County will assign a dedicated staff member from its Stormwater Management Division to be based full-time at the preserve, enhancing environmental education and access to the site.
Nature as Teacher is recognized as a sanctuary for environmental edu cation in Kershaw County. “Environmental education enables learners to appreciate the interconnectedness of social, ecological, economic, cultural, and political perspectives,” said Ashley Branham, Interim Program Co ordinator of Nature as Teacher. “We are excited to announce our partner ship with Kershaw County in this endeavor.”
The preserve is located on public land, allowing for expanded support from the County, including infrastructure maintenance and funding for staffing. With the addition of a full-time stormwater management profes sional on site, Nature as Teacher will be able to increase public access and programming, while deepening its role as a regional resource for conser vation and learning.
This shared vision reflects the legacy of Margaret Lloyd, the conserva tionist and philanthropist who donated the 853-acre property to Clemson University. “Margaret Lloyd was deeply inspired by connections,” Bran ham added. “She believed that nature is the ideal classroom for discov ering personal truths, understanding the universe, and recognizing our relationships with all living beings.”
Together, Clemson University—through Nature as Teacher—and Ker
shaw County are committed to building a healthier, more sustainable, and resilient future for the community by promoting environmental literacy and inspiring responsible action. Future plans include collaborative "lunch and learn" programs for County staff and expanded outdoor educational activities.
Above, left to right: Bob Giangiorgi, Danny Templar, Richard Guess
Camden Medical Pavilion Opening
MUSC Health is proud to announce the grand opening of the Camden Medical Pavilion, a new facility designed to deliver high-quality, comprehensive care to women in Kershaw County. A ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration was held on Tuesday, July 15, at 4 p.m. at 2034 West DeKalb Street, Camden, SC.
“This new medical pavilion reflects MUSC Health’s ongoing commitment to investing in our community and expanding access to excellent care,” said Tallulah Holmstrom, M.D., chief medical officer of MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center. “We’re excited to bring this level of women’s healthcare to Camden and provide a space designed with our patients' unique needs in mind. This building shows MUSC’s commitment to bringing the best in women’s care to our backyard.”
The Camden Medical Pavilion brings together women’s health physicians, primary care physicians and advanced imaging services under one roof, making it easier than ever for women in the Kershaw County communities to access specialized care close to home.
Key features of Camden Medical Pavilion include:
• Comprehensive women’s health services, including obstetrics, gynecology, and other specialty care.
• Cutting-edge women’s imaging capabilities, including 3D mammography, ultrasound, and bone density scanning.
• A community room to hold classes and conferences for patient education and events.
Visit muschealth.org for more information.
United Way of KC Summer Bash 2025
The United Way of Kershaw County’s Summer Bash lit up the night
Grind + Groom Day Returns
After the tremendous success of last year's inaugural event, Grind Out Sports & Education, in partnership with the Jackson Teen Center, is proud to announce the return of Grind & Groom Day—a powerful and purposeful back-to-school celebration like no other.
This year’s event will take place at Lugoff-Elgin High School, on July 31 from 11 am - 5 pm, offering a day filled with free grooming services, food, contests, music, and community resources for teens and youth from Kershaw County and beyond. The goal remains the same: to uplift and empower students by giving them the tools and confidence they need to walk into the new school year feeling seen, supported, and celebrated.
“Grind & Groom Day is about more than just a fresh haircut—it’s about restoring pride and confidence,” said Brian Mayes, Director of the Jackson Teen Center. “We believe in creating a space where teens feel at home. Events like these strengthen our mission to provide an environment that promotes self-confidence and belonging. Join us for a day of celebration, inspiration, and preparation as we support our local youth and honor one of Camden’s own.”
Last year’s event drew hundreds of youth and featured a special appearance from NBA player GG Jackson of the Memphis Grizzlies—himself a proud product of the Jackson Teen Center. Jackson not only energized the crowd but also presented Director Mayes with a donation to fund future programs through Grind Out Sports & Education. He is expected to return again this year with even more surprises in store.
Attendees can look forward to:
• Free haircuts, nail services, and grooming
• Basketball contests and live DJ music
• Free food and drinks
• Resource tables from local organizations and companies
Last year’s event also marked the debut of a new Grind Out logo, emblazoned proudly at the Jackson Teen Center’s basketball court, featuring GG Jackson’s signature. And while the venue may have changed, the excitement and impact will be just as unforgettable this year—if not more.
Grind & Groom Day is a vibrant reminder of what happens when community, culture, and compassion come together to uplift youth. All students and families are encouraged to attend and celebrate the promise of a great school year ahead.
For more info or to get involved as a sponsor or volunteer, contact Brian Mayes at 803-729-7801.
KCSD Announces Administrative Updates
The Kershaw County School Board recently approved Jodie Kahler as the district’s new Coordinator of Teacher Quality and Staff Development and Dr. Siddeeqah Cruse as the new assistant principal of Stover Middle School.
Jodie Kahler brings 23 years of experience, all as an English teacher and ELA department chair at North Central Middle School. Since 2008, she has led the district’s mentor support program and, since 2020, has supported new certified hires and induction teachers with professional development. She also teaches ProTeam, a course aimed at inspiring middle schoolers to consider careers in education.
Kahler is a three-time Teacher of the Year at
her school and has been recognized as the 2003 KCSD District Secondary Reading Teacher of the Year and the First Alternate District Teacher of the Year in both 2015 and 2024. In 2025, she received the Jessie Little “Leading the Way” Award from Winthrop University for her work mentoring educators. She holds a BA in English from the University of South Carolina and a Master’s in instructional accommodations from Francis Marion and is a member of the Palmetto State Teachers Association.
Dr. Siddeeqah Cruse joined KCSD in 2023 as a 7th teacher at Stover Middle, where she also serves as 504 Coordinator and National Junior Honor Society Faculty Advisor. She has 16
years of teaching experience in Lee and Richland Counties and held roles including AVID site coordinator, Project-Based Learning Coach, and Soar Program Lead. She also served on the Richland Two Grading Task Force and the SC Department of Education’s Social Studies Alignment Guide Committee.
Cruse completed KCSD’s Developing Administrators Program and is a member of organizations including the SC Association of School Administrators and National Council for Social Studies. She holds a BA in History, a Master of Teaching in Secondary Education, a Master’s in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction—all from USC.
New Small Business Workshop Added to Summer Series
An additional workshop has been added to the Small Business Summer Series, hosted by the City of Camden at the Camden branch of the Kershaw County Library, 1304 Broad Street. Small business consultant and tax advisor Jeffrey Cooper will lead an intensive two-hour workshop for small business owners needing to write or refresh their business plans on Tuesday, August 12.
Remaining workshops in the summer series are as follows:
Tuesday, July 29
6:00-7:00 pm
Financing Your Business
In this workshop, led by small business consultant and tax advisor 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?
Tuesday, August 12
5:00-7:00 pm
Writing Your Business Plan
It’s always important for your business to have a plan, whether it’s the first or a refreshed version. This seminar will cover writing a complete business plan, including specific emphasis on the Executive Summary and the Financial Analysis. How long should the executive summary be and what to say? What should the financial analysis show? Small business consultant and tax advisor Jeff Cooper has the answers, and will demonstrate using spreadsheet creation to complete a 3-5 year cash flow analysis. Bring your laptop to this workshop to get started.
For more information, visit www.kershawcountylibrary.org or www.experiencecamdensc. com.
Books on Broad Presents Mother Emanuel Author
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 coffee shop located in downtown Camden.
VBS at Highway Pentecostal
Calling all Cowboys and Cowgirls! Join us Friday and Saturday, July 25-26th for a rootin tootin time down on the farm! Gather your herd and bring them to our Barnyard, Friday evening check in registration 5:30-6:00pm for dinner, opening assembly starts at 6:00pm, on Saturday morning light breakfast snacks begin at 9:00am with registration check in. After VBS is concluded stay and join us for a FAMILY FUN DAY until 2:30! Family Fun includes: Food, Inflatables, Games, Petting Zoo Animals, Face Painting/Hair Tinsel, an Ice Cream Truck and much more!
August Events at the KC Public Library
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
1 PM – 3 PM in Elgin
Crafty Crafters: 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.
Special Events
Friday, August 1 | 1 PM – 2:30 PM | Elgin
Junkyard Geniuses: Mini Ecosystems: Join Ms. Misha to discover the wonders of science through hands-on learning. This week, we’re going to have fun making mini ecosystems with recycled materials. Please call 803-438-7881 to sign up as space is limited. For ages 7-10.
Friday, August 1 | 6 PM – 10 PM | Camden
Open Game Night: KCL invites teen gamers to come enjoy tabletop RPG and strategy-based board games at Open Game Night! Seats are limited, so RSVP is required to attend. Email markw@kershawcountylibrary.org to reserve your teen’s spot. Signups must be received no later than Wednesday, July 30! Space is limited. For ages 13-17.
Thursday, August 7 | 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.
Thursday, August 7 | 4 PM – 6 PM in Elgin #hangout: Need someplace to unwind and hang out with your friends or other tweens/teens? Come to KCL Elgin and socialize, play games, do artwork, work on a group project, or just chill with our lo-fi. No sign-up is required; just drop in and hang. For ages 12-17.
Thursday, August 7 | 6 PM – 7 PM | Camden
Echoes of Vietnam: Memory, History, and the Legacy of War: This one-hour conversation explores the enduring impact of the Vietnam War on American identity, memory, and Southern narratives. Featuring L. Glen Inabinet, author of Mekong Memoirs, and Dr. Fritz Hamer, historian and expert on the war’s social and cultural legacy, the discussion will reflect on personal experience, national trauma, and the shifting public perception of veterans and military engagement. How does the legacy of Vietnam continue to haunt the American South—and how is it remembered, reinterpreted, and retold?
Friday, August 8 | 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Camden Little Explorers’ Club: Clay Letters: Each child will shape their name using clay and a letter template. All materials provided. Ages 2-5. Email to register: laurend@kershawcountylibrary.org
Tuesday, August 12 | 4 PM - 6 PM | Elgin
BLOX: Kids and teens of all ages are welcome to come build with varying items at the Elgin library! We have Legos, K’nex, Keva Planks, and more. It’s a great way to add a little STEM into your summer!
Tuesday, August 12 | 5 PM – 7 PM | Camden Summer Seminars: Writing Your Business Plan: It’s always important for your business to have a plan, whether it’s the first or a refreshed version. This seminar will cover writing a complete business plan, including specific emphasis on the executive summary and financial analysis. How long should the summary be… and what do you say? What should the analysis show? Small business consultant and tax advisor Jeff Cooper has the answers and will demonstrate, using spreadsheet creation to complete a 3-5 year cash flow analysis. Bring your laptop!
Thursday, August 14 | 4 PM – 5 PM | Camden Lego Club: Kids and parents playing along are welcome to join us in playing with Legos at the library.
Tuesday, August 19 | 5 PM – 6 PM | Elgin
Law Talk: Real Estate and Foreclosure: Join a local lawyer for a discussion on what to expect legally with real estate and foreclosure. Reserve your free seat by calling 803-438-7881. Law Talks are sponsored by the SC Bar Public Services Division and are open and free to the public.
Thursday, August 21 | 4 PM – 6 PM | Elgin
#hangout: Need someplace to unwind and hang out with your friends or other tweens/teens? Come to KCL Elgin and socialize, play games, do artwork, work on a group project, or just chill with our lo-fi. No sign-up is required; just drop in and hang. For ages 12-17.
Thursday, August 21 | 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.
Monday, August 25 | 5 PM – 6 PM | Elgin
Elgin Book Club: Drop in to pick up our July read, Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson. Request a copy with the Elgin front desk today! New members welcome!
Tuesday, August 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, August 26 | 6 PM – 7 PM | Camden
Camden Book Club: This month, our club is reading You’ll Do: A History of Marrying for Reasons Other Than Love by Marcia A. Zug. Request a copy at the Camden front desk. New members welcome!
Thursday, August 28 | 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, August 28 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Camden
Law Talk: Tenant Rights & Responsibilities: Join a local lawyer for a discussion on your rights and responsibilities when you rent property. Reserve your free seat by calling 803-425-1508. Law Talks are sponsored by the SC Bar Public Services Division and are open and free to the public.
National Night Out Set for Aug. 5
Bad weather forced us to cancel last year's National Night Out. We are looking forward to seeing everyone this year on August 5th at 6pm.
The event will start with a parade of multiple first responder vehicles around the L-E Middle School and L-E High School Annex. We will then park behind the L-E Annex and transition to a touch-a-truck event with bounce houses, K9 displays, food, fire trucks, ambulances, KCSO Mustangs, and much more. This is a free event.
National Night Out culminates annually on the first Tuesday in August. It enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
Community Eligibility Provision Notice
Kershaw County School District is participating in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) for the 2025-2026 school year. Section 104(a) of the Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010 amended section 11(a)(1) of the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1759a(a)(1))(the law) to provide an alternative to household applications for free and reduced-price meals in local educational agencies (LEAs) and schools with increased levels of low-income students.
This alternative is referred to as the Community Eligibility Provision. All students enrolled in the school/district may participate in the breakfast and lunch program at no charge to them. Families will not have to fill out meal applications.
Breakfast and lunch meals follow the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines for healthy school meals. Please encourage students to participate in the school meal programs. You may contact your School Food Service (SFS) Director Misha Lawyer for additional information.
Parents or guardians that do not want their child/children to participate in CEP may wish to discuss this matter with Misha Lawyer, Director KCSD Nutrition and School Food Service on an informal basis. Parents wishing to make a formal appeal may make a request either orally or in writing to Misha Lawyer, Director KCSD Nutrition and School Food Service whose address is: 2029 West Dekalb St Camden, SC 29020 for a hearing to appeal the decision.
