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From The Mayor's Desk
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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 met on Thursday, July 7, 2026, at 6 p.m., with Mayor Melissa Emmons presiding. Council members, town staff, and attorney John Wells were present for the monthly meeting.
The session opened with an invocation from Mayor Emmons, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilwoman Brandy Bradley. Council then unanimously approved the minutes from the June 2 meeting.
During the presentation portion of the meeting, Judge David Reuwer spoke about the Declaration of Independence and its history in South Carolina as the nation celebrated its 250th birthday. Shirley Miles also addressed council to request permission to install luxury vinyl plank flooring in the Elgin Museum. Council approved the request unanimously.
Following the adoption of the agenda, council reviewed a list of new business license applications for June 2026. Applications included several in-town businesses and temporary vendors.
Under old business, council received the June 2026 monthly report for the Community Center. Members also announced that Jean’s Hair Place was selected as the town’s Business of the Quarter for the third quarter.
New business included updates from Chief Alan Anders, who reported that training has begun with Central Square, the Elgin Police Department’s new report management system. Anders also noted that proceeds from the Duke Grant were used to purchase two new portable radios for the department.
Council also considered a representation agreement involving Tommy Morgan of the law firm Smith Robinson Holler DuBose and Morgan, LLC, which will represent the Town of Elgin in an upcoming court case. Council unanimously authorized the mayor to sign the agreement.
During council briefings, Dana Sloan congratulated Jean’s Hair Place on its recognition and thanked Lt. Ed Hines for being active in the community on the Fourth of July. Brandy Bradley expressed appreciation for local businesses that donated air conditioning units and for residents checking on one another during the extreme summer heat. Mayor Emmons noted that she, along with Councilwomen Dana Sloan and Brandy Bradley, will attend the Municipal Association’s annual conference later this month. Attorney John Wells had no report.
Council adjourned at 6:34 p.m. after a motion from Councilwoman Dana Sloan, seconded by Councilwoman Brandy Bradley, passed unanimously. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 6 p.m.
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LEMS Announces New Assistant Principal
Lugoff-Elgin Middle School announces Chelsea Pedersen as its new assistant principal.
“I am excited to welcome Ms. Pedersen to Lugoff-Elgin Middle School. She brings incredible energy, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to doing what is best for students. I am confident that she will build meaningful relationships with our students, staff, and families, and I look forward to the positive impact she will have on our school community,” says Lugoff-Elgin Middle Principal LaKeisha Lawrence.
Currently, Pedersen serves as an Assistant Administrator at Westwood High School in Richland School District Two. Prior to moving into administration in 2023, she taught Physical Education and Health at Westwood High for seven years, where she served as the physical education department chair. She began her teaching career as a PE teacher at Clover Middle, where she served for four years.
While at Westwood High, she served as the Assistant Athletic Director, leading the girls' varsity soccer program for four years and the boys' program for three years.
“I am deeply honored and eager to step into the role of Assistant Principal and join the Lugoff-Elgin Middle School family. As we begin this journey together, I look forward to devoting my energy to the success of our school community by providing unwavering support to our students, empowering our dedicated staff, and building strong, collaborative partnerships with all of our families. I am incredibly excited to listen, learn, and grow with you all as we write the next successful chapter for Lugoff-Elgin Middle School,” says Pedersen.
She earned a bachelor of science degree in physical education and a masters of education degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Winthrop University. She also attended Arkansas State University where she received a master of science degree in Sport Administration and a certificate in school administration.
She is a member of SC Association of School Administrators, SC Education Association, and National Education Association.
Since 2024, Pedersen has served as a director and coach for Technical Soccer Club in Kershaw County.
Outside of school, she loves staying active and exploring the world. In her free time, she can usually be found out on the field coaching soccer, traveling the world, or enjoying quality time with her family, her dogs Cruz and Harry, and her cats Charlie, Kona, and Freya.
Chelsea Pedersen LEMS Assistant Principal
Breaking Records and Setting Standards
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Long before women held leadership roles in athletics, Barbara Wilkes was blazing trails. Growing up in Kershaw County in the 1950s, she developed a passion for competition and a determination to succeed that would shape her life’s work.
From setting records as an All-American basketball player to building championship volleyball programs and becoming one of South Carolina’s pioneering female athletic directors, Barbara opened doors for those who followed. Her journey is more than a story about sports; it is a story of resilience, faith, family, and the lasting impact one person can have on an entire community.
In the 1950s, Barbara Wilkes stood out at Camden High School as both a leader and an athlete. She served as head majorette for the award-winning school band and earned varsity letters in basketball for six consecutive years.
Barbara’s athletic talent earned her All-State honors four times with an Honorable Mention as an eighth grader. In her senior year, 1955, she was named to the All-Southern and High School All-American teams. Under Coach Pop Small, Barbara set a record by scoring 100 points in a high school basketball game against Blaney High. She averaged 30 points per game and credited Coach Small with teaching her to shoot.
Barbara attended Newberry College, where she continued her basketball career and became a cheerleader for the football and basketball team. Barbara married while in college and started a family; however, she resumed her studies eight years later at the University of South Carolina, earning a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Teaching Health and Physical Education. At USC, Barbara was a star player for the Lady Gamecocks basketball team, helping them reach the national championship in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Barbara began her teaching career at Mount Pisgah High School and Baron DeKalb High School, where she coached both volleyball teams for two years. In 1979, the schools consolidated to form North
Central High School, and Barbara continued her coaching career there for 29 years. As a coach, her volleyball teams won an impressive 549 matches, claimed 10 region championships, 3 upper state championships, and 3 state championships, including championship runner-up finishes and two state championships at Mount Pisgah High in 1975.
Barbara’s commitment to physical education extended beyond coaching. Her physical education class won the state President’s Physical Fitness Test and traveled to Los Angeles to represent South Carolina in the Way-Out Games, the national fitness competition, where the team from the smallest school in the country finished 18th in the nation. The events were televised by CBS. Members of the team were Jeff Newman, DeWayne Pate, Robbie Roberts, Sherry Hudson, Kim Horton and Debbie Knight.
Barbara was a pioneering female coach and athletic director in South Carolina, becoming North Central High School's AD in 1989 and the first woman in Class A to be a regional coordinator. Her career includes nearly three decades with the SCACA, leadership roles on various coaching associations, and service as both regional president and national volleyball vice chairperson.
Barbara said the advice she would give a new coach would be “Be very knowledgeable with your sport. Treat the athletes who are your players with respect. Establish how you will run your team, the physical shape you want them to be in, on and off the court. Most importantly, set up an early meeting with the parents.”
Barbara was recognized as South Carolina Coach of the Year in volleyball in 1979, 1981, 1987, 1992, and 1999. She was also named Coach of the Year in track and cross country in 1979 and was nominated for national volleyball coach of the year in 1980 and 1983. She coached in the North-South All-Star volleyball game in 1980, 1983, and 1996.
Barbara has been inducted into multiple halls of fame, including SCCross country Track Coaches Association , SCACA, SCA, NCHS Wall of Fame and the CHS hall of Fame, and the Camden Lugoff Area Society of Shaggers’ Wall of Fame.
On Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 9:30 at the Camden Shrine Club, 88-year-old Barbara Wilkes enjoys shagging to favorite beach music classics such as “Thank You, John,” “It Must Be Love,” and “Lady Soul.” Come watch Barbara, share a few dance steps and make some new friends who love Beach music.
Stay tuned for part two...
Camden City Manager Selected For Prestigious Program
Camden City Manager Matt DeWitt has been selected to participate in the 2026–2027 SC Executive Institute, one of the state's premier leadership development programs for senior public sector executives.
Administered by the SC Department of Administration, the SC Executive Institute brings together a select group of leaders from across the state for an intensive seven-month leadership development program. Designed to strengthen executive leadership skills, the institute provides participants with advanced coursework, collaboration with fellow public sector leaders, and practical strategies for leading high-performing organizations.
Over the course of seven months, DeWitt will participate in sessions alongside public sector executives from across the state, gaining new strategies and perspectives to help strengthen Camden's continued commitment to exceptional public service.
"I am honored to be selected for the South Carolina Executive Institute, one of the state's most prestigious leadership programs," said
DeWitt. "This experience will provide valuable opportunities to gain insights from fellow leaders across South Carolina and bring new ideas and best practices back to Camden as we continue working to provide exceptional service to our citizens."
Mayor Vincent Sheheen said DeWitt's selection is a reflection of his leadership and dedication to Camden.
“Matt’s selection for the South Carolina Executive Institute is a well-deserved honor,” said Mayor Sheheen. “He has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving our community and continually seeking ways to improve the services we provide. I am confident the knowledge and relationships he gains through this program will continue to benefit the City of Camden for years to come.”
The SC Executive Institute is considered one of the state's most respected professional development opportunities for public sector executives. Participants are selected competitively based on their leadership potential and commitment to advancing excellence in public service.
KCSD Is “Constructing Success” This School Year
Teachers and administrators gathered in the Lugoff-Elgin High School auditorium on July 24 for the Kershaw County School District's Opening Day Kickoff.
The "Constructing Success" event included recognition of the district's Teachers of the Year and remarks from a guest speaker.
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Unlicensed Driver / Speeding: Lt. Hines was on routine patrol on Smyrna Road, towards Sessions rd, within the Town of Elgin, and observed a north bound vehicle at a high rate of speed. Radar, which had been previously tested and was working properly, confirmed officer's observations of 55/35. Officer's blue lights were activated and the vehicle, a 2022 Toyota Tundra, yielded across from Blaney Elementary School. Driver presented his Salvadoran identification card and stated that he did not have a driver's license from South Carolina. The basis for the stop was explained and officer took the offered identification card and an SC vehicle registration card. KC Dispatch checked records for the subject and confirmed that he did not have a SC driver's license, nor was he showing as wanted. Owner of the truck sent a copy of the insurance card from Progressive which was observed to be valid. Citations for speeding (55/35) and Unlicensed Driver were issued, driver called his wife to come pick him up, and the vehicle was parked in the parking lot of Stover Middle School. Radar retested shortly after the stop to validate accuracy. BWC activated during stop. Assisting Other Agency: Hines was dispatched to a suspicious male passed out behind the Domino’s Pizza at 1230 Rose Street, Elgin SC. Upon arrival, Hines observed a middle-aged black male lying on the ground and against the building. Subject had what appeared to be three bags of his belongings around him along with several empty cans of beer. Subject was breathing but unresponsive. Hines requested EMS to respond. While awaiting EMS, Hines obtained a pulse of approximately 130 bpm and continued to attempt to rouse the subject. Employees of Domino’s provided some water (unconsumed) and an umbrella to provide some shade. Upon arrival of EMS at 1235 care was transferred to EMS. While subject was being treated, Hines checked subject’s wallet in an attempt to identify the subject and found a “detainee ID card” number from Alvin S Glenn (ASG) Detention Center in Richland County. KC Dispatch found a record in their CAD in subject’s name with an address in Hialaeh FL and a DOB of 01/22/1980. KC Dispatch was able to confirm with ASG records that the detainee ID number matched with the subject in the CAD. KC EMS took possession of subject’s property and transported him
to the emergency room. Body Worn Camera downloaded.
Permitting Dog To Run At Large: SRO Picciuolo was dispatched to Windy Hills Subdivision to investigate an dog at large complaint. Upon arrival, SRO Picciuolo met with a resident of Windy Hills Subdivision who stated that Subject has been letting his beagle type dog out in the morning to roam the neighborhood without a leash and without the owner of the dog present. The resident stated that the beagle dog is not aggressive but may be slightly malnourished as it looks very skinny. Resident further stated that the beagle dog will hang around her house and other neighbors’ homes. Resident stated that the beagle dog has tried to enter her residence and also bothers her dog that will occasionally be in their back yard. SRO Picciuolo could not find the beagle dog on 07/11/2026. SRO Picciuolo advised the resident to contact him on Sunday, 07/12/2026 if the dog was again at large. At 0714, SRO Picciuolo was contacted by text message and advised that the beagle dog was again at large in Windy Hills Subdivision, had been fed by another Windy Hills resident, and had returned to Subject’s home. SRO Picciuolo advised the resident that a citation would be issued to Subject, the beagle dog’s owner. OFC Pressley had previously given Suject a warning about allowing his dog to run at large (07/09/2026 EPD Case #26-0700334). Based on the previous warning to Subject, OFC Picciuolo issued a Town of Elgin ordinance summons to Subject. Shoplifting: Reporting Officer was dispatched to the location, 2507 Main Street (Circle K), which is within the Town limits of Elgin, in reference to a shoplifting. Upon arrival on scene, Officer made contact with the Complainant who is a clerk at the business. Complainant stated that he had a photo of an individual that had stole items from the business every night since Tuesday (07/07/2026). Complainant stated that his boss, Manager, intended to do a report regarding the previous thefts but had not got around to it yet before the suspect entered the location tonight, 07/10/2026 and stole again. Complainant stated that every day since the 7th of this month the Suspect, identified from the photo by Officer due to prior interactions, had come in between the hours of 2345 - 0145 and stolen the same three items each time. The three items, a 2 pack of Reese Cups, a XLG Polar Pop and a cold BBQ pork sandwich, totaled to $9.75. Over the course of the previous four nights, Subject
had taken approximately $39 worth of merchandise from the store, passing all points of sale and making no attempts to pay for the items. Tonight, 07/10/2026, Complainant stated that Subject entered the location and grabbed his items before brining them to the counter. Once Subject brought the items to the counter, Complainant stated that Subject instructed him to scan them and once Complainant did, Subject turned and walked out of the store without attempting to render payment. Complainant stated that Subject informed him that he would return to the location on the 1st to pay him for the items and that another clerk at the location, Clerk, allows him “to do it” (take without paying). Complainant stated that once he took the merchandise, Subject got on a bike and headed across the street toward the pharmacy before he lost sight of him and contacted law enforcement. Complainant stated that at the moment he was unsure if his boss wished to press charges in regards to the theft as he had not heard her say anything about pressing charges, however he was sure that she wanted Subject trespassed from the location. Officer will attempt to have someone reach out to Manager to confirm if the business wishes to press charges as soon as possible. Until that confirmation can be made, Subject will be served with a trespass notice as soon as he is located.
Assisting Other Agency: On 07/16/2026, Lt. Delong along with Kershaw County Sheriff’s office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S Secret service served a search warrant at Sessions Rd. address in the Town limits of Elgin. This is the residence of Suspect, who is the suspect in several fraud cases between South Carolina and Florida. Upon arrival the residents was surrounded by law enforcement and the occupants were called out over the PA system of a marked patrol vehicle. After a few minutes four subjects walked out of the front door of the residents with their hands raised. All occupants were detained upon exit. The last person out was identified as Suspect. Once all occupants were secured and the house was cleared three of the subjects were released from hand cuffs while officers executed the search for electronic devices belonging to Suspect. Once the search was complete Three subjects were released and Suspect was transported to KCSO for further questioning. All units cleared the scene without incident.
KCSD Announces New Admin Hires
During the July 7 board meeting, the Kershaw County School Board approved several administrative recommendations including naming Cynthia Jowers as the new director of student services, Kristi Brown as the new assistant principal of Wateree Elementary, and Reagan Payseur as the new assistant principal of Midway Elementary.
As the new director of student services, Cynthia Jowers will oversee student discipline, school zoning designations, and student activities and athletics at the district level.
“I am deeply honored and excited to have been selected to serve as Director of Student Services for Kershaw County Schools. This opportunity represents both a professional milestone and a personal calling to support students, families, and schools in meaningful ways. My experiences as a social studies teacher and assistant principal in charge of student services, crisis response, and instructional improvement have prepared me to lead with both compassion and purpose. I appreciate the support and mentorship of the Richland County School District One leaders who helped mold me professionally and personally and the unwavering love and support of my family. I look forward to serving the students and families of Kershaw County with dedication, compassion, and purpose,” says Jowers.
An experienced educator with extensive experience in progressive leadership in secondary education, Jowers began her education career in 1997 as a teacher and coach at Blackville-Hilda High School and Wade Hampton High School. From 2000-2009 she worked as the director of operations for a commercial real estate firm.
In 2011, Jowers returned to education as a teacher and coach at Dreher High School. In 2014 she was promoted to Dean of Students at Dreher, where she developed behavioral intervention systems and supervised student discipline processes, referrals, hearings and disciplinary actions. From 2014-2022, Jowers served as an assistant principal at Dreher High, leading the school's multi-tier system of supports (MTSS), attendance, student discipline systems and restorative practices. In 2022, Jowers was promoted to Assistant Principal for Instruction to lead the school’s instructional improvement initiatives, implement a schoolwide Visible Learning framework, coordinate master scheduling and strengthen intervention systems supporting graduation rate improvement.
Jowers received a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Columbia College and Master of Arts in educational administration from
Cambridge College. She is currently pursuing an Education Specialist degree in educational administration from the University of South Carolina.
She is a member of the South Carolina Association of School Administrators, Palmetto State Teachers Association and Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society.
Kristi Brown has been named the new assistant principal of Wateree Elementary School.
For the past eight years Brown has served as a first-grade teacher at Wateree Elementary. During her time at Wateree she has served as a grade-level team lead, district protocol team member, Kershaw County Teacher Forum member, School Improvement Council (SIC) member, and Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) member.
“I am incredibly honored to continue serving the students, staff, and families of our school in this new role. Having spent the past eight years in the classroom, I am excited to support our school community in a new capacity while building on the relationships, collaborative spirit, and commitment to excellence that helps every student succeed,” says Brown.
Brown was named Wateree’s Teacher of the Year during the 20212022 school year and was named a top five teacher in the district competition. In 2019, she was recognized as an Outstanding First Year Teacher Nominee. She completed Kershaw County School District’s Developing Administrators Program in 2026.
She received an Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University, a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from USC Upstate.
A Kershaw County native and graduate of Kershaw County School District, Brown is proud to continue serving the community that helped shape her. She is also the proud mother of her three-year-old daughter, Brooklyn.
Reagan Payseur will serve as the new assistant principal of Midway Elementary School.
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve the students, families, and staff at Midway Elementary. The momentum already at Midway provides a strong foundation to build on, and I look forward
Cynthia Jowers Director of Student Services
Kristi Brown Wateree Elementary Assistant Principal Regan Payseur Midway Elementary Assistant Principal
Victory Sports Camp Returns To Elgin
About 270 children spent the second week of July playing ball, cheering and learning at Blaney Elementary School during this year's Victory Sports Camp.
The camp ran July 6-9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and was open to students who had completed first through sixth grade. Campers spent mornings in a sport of their choosing, broke for a provided lunch at noon, then moved into Vacation Bible School from 1 to 4 p.m.
Sports included baseball and softball, soccer, football, basketball, cheer and volleyball. Campers stayed with the same sport all week, giving coaches four straight days to work on fundamentals with the same group.
With temperatures climbing into the 90s most afternoons, volunteers kept water stations running throughout the morning sessions and moved kids indoors for the afternoon program. Registration cost $45 per camper.
Victory Sports Outreach, which organizes the camps, was established in 2004 and uses sports as a way to share the Gospel. The Kershaw County camp draws families from Elgin, Lugoff and Camden, and it runs on volunteer coaches and helpers from area churches.
Next year's camp is set for July 5-8 at Blaney Elementary. Families who want details on registration, volunteering or sponsorship can visit victorysportsoutreach.org.
KCSD Substitute Staffing
Kershaw County School District is pleased to announce its partnership with national educational staffing firm ESS to manage daily and long-term substitute services starting this school year.
Effective July 1, 2026, ESS officially assumed management of the district's substitute program. This collaboration brings over two decades of specialized K-12 staffing experience to the community, offering local schools a robust network of qualified personnel, including substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff.
"ESS has a proven track record of placing qualified professionals in classrooms across the country," said Denise Sowell, Chief Human Resources Officer for Kershaw County School District. "We are confident that this partnership will provide high-quality support to our schools, ensure seamless continuity in our classrooms, and serve our community well."
ESS representatives are actively recruiting new hires and reaching out to current KCSD substitutes in preparation for the upcoming school year.
The district is also encouraging community members, retired teachers, recent college graduates, and anyone interested in making a positive impact in Kershaw County to apply. ESS offers flexible scheduling, allowing substitutes to choose when, where, and how often they work. Additionally, substitute positions through ESS come with competitive employee perks, including:
• Health benefits and a 401(k) plan
• Comprehensive training and ongoing district support
• Weekly pay
• Bonus opportunities and employee award programs
Those interested in applying or learning more about substitute opportunities within the district can visit the KCSD Substitute Applications Page on the KCSD website.
For More Information
If you have questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to ESS Regional Manager, Courtney Robinson, at CoRobinson@ess.com.
KCSD HIRES, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
to supporting a learning environment where every child feels happy, valued, and successful,” says Payseur.
Payseur joined the district in 2019 as a sixth and seventh grade English language arts teacher at Camden Middle, where she currently serves. She held leadership positions, as the ELA Department Chair and handled phone and computer discipline referrals. She previously taught sixth grade at Muller Road Middle School. From 2021-2024, she assisted Camden Middle as they transitioned to Canvas as the technology specialist. She completed Kershaw County School District’s Developing Administrators Program in 2025.
She received a Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership from Western Governors University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Clemson University.
She is a member of Palmetto State Teachers Association and South Carolina Association For Middle Level Education (SCAMLE). This year she served as the Head Coach for the Camden High Girls and Boys Tennis Teams.
Payseur lives in Camden with her husband, Dwight, and their daughter, Lexi. She is also the proud mother of three adult children and their spouses, “Grammy” to three grandchildren, and dog mom to Liam and Beasley.
Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Improvements at KC West
Kershaw County officials held a ribbon cutting at the Kershaw County West Park in Lugoff on July 10th.
Improvements include 250 paved parking spaces and an additional entrance/exit on Whitehead Rd.
Representatives from County Council, County Staff, Kershaw County Recreation Commission, Legislative Delegation, KBI Construction, Health Services District of Kershaw County and MUSC Health along with interested citizens were on hand for the ribbon cutting. The park is open and ready for families to enjoy.
Post 195 Recognizes Palmetto Boys and Girls State Delegates
At their July meeting, Post 195 recognized Palmetto Boys and Girls State participants sponsored by the post. Certificates were presented by Auxiliary Unit 195 president and secretary Brenda Cook and Dana Turner to Girls State delegates and LEHS rising seniors Madeline Mathis, Zaria Roberson, and Allyssa Tutt. Boys State participants recognized by post commander Claude Turner were Carleun Cleveland and Parker Robinson.
Palmetto Boys State and Palmetto Girls State programs are an opportunity for young people to learn about the American system of government and politics. They participated in a mock governmental
system. For one week, each participant has the opportunity to run for and be elected to mock offices ranging from city level (city council, mayor, etc.) to state constitutional offices such as governor and lieutenant governor.
Over 2,000 rising seniors are nominated each year by their high school teachers and counselors to be delegates or “citizens” at the programs. Nominees are interviewed and selected by the local American Legion post. Over 1000 boys went to Anderson University and nearly 800 girls participated at Presbyterian College. A number of scholarships and other programs are linked to the program.
KCL Celebrates the Retirement of Beloved Children’s Librarian Lauren Decker After 20 Years of Service
After two decades of fostering a love for reading, music, and community, Lauren Decker has announced her retirement. To honor her 20 years of loyal service, the community is invited to a celebratory drop-in retirement party on Saturday, August 1st, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
The family-friendly celebration will feature bubbles, balloon animals, and refreshments, offering community members of all ages a chance to thank Ms. Lauren and wish her well on her next chapter.
A Career Dedicated to Early Literacy and Leadership
Over the last twenty years, Lauren Decker has been a cornerstone of early childhood development and civic engagement in Camden. Her impactful career includes:
Early Childhood Advocacy: Championing early literacy through her deep involvement with Early Head Start, ensuring local infants and toddlers have a strong educational foundation.
Board & Committee Leadership: Lending her leadership to vital local organizations, serving as an active member of the Camden 250 Committee, and previously serving on the board of KC First Steps.
Mentoring Future Educators: Partnering with the Woolard Technology Center (formerly ATEC) Early Childhood Education program. High school students regularly attended Ms. Lauren’s public sto-
rytimes as part of their hands-on training and fieldwork.
Grant Writing: Writing grants to fund library programming, including many LSTA grants and NASA@ My Library.
Bringing Music to the Community
Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Lauren is well-known for her artistic contributions to the area. She is a dedicated member of the Camden Community Concert Band, where she frequently shares her musical talents playing the violin.
Retirement Celebration Details Saturday, August 1st | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
KCL Camden
All ages are welcome to attend this free event.
Bridlewood Academy: New Name, New Building, New
As families prepare to head back to school, Bridlewood Academy is kicking off the upcoming academic year with two historic milestones: a fresh identity and official plans for a brand-new facility dedicated to its upcoming middle school expansion.
Formerly known as Horse Creek Academy Kershaw, the tuition-free public charter school is gearing up for the return of students as leadership looks towards the future of the academy. The school’s new name, Bridlewood Academy, reflects the school’s growing footprint in the Camden community as the school’s leadership continues its commitment to nurturing students as they transition from elementary into their middle school years.
To support the planned expansion through grade 8, the school has finalized plans for a permanent facility to house the growing student population. Designed to maintain the school’s signature small class
Grades
sizes, the new space will dedicate areas for small-group collaborative learning, ensuring that Bridlewood Academy’s mission remains at the heart of the student experience.
"There is an incredible wave of energy on campus right now as we prepare to welcome our new and returning students back to school,” said Michael Manning, principal at Bridlewood Academy. “This year will be truly special because we are bringing in our first group of 6th graders, who will be kicking off our inaugural middle school class. With the upcoming middle school expansion, along with the plans for our future building, we are creating a school where families in Kershaw County can truly excel both academically and personally.”
Ready to experience the Bridlewood difference firsthand? Visit www. bridlewoodacademy.net today to explore our enrollment options and secure your child's spot for the upcoming school year.
KCCC Accepting Nominations For Board Members
The Kershaw County Clean Commission is accepting nominations from community members interested in serving on its board as four vacancies become available.
The Commission is seeking dedicated individuals who are passionate about litter prevention, beautification, environmental stewardship, and strengthening the quality of life throughout Kershaw County. Members play a vital role in guiding the Commission's mission and supporting programs that keep Kershaw County clean, green, and beautiful.
The Commission welcomes nominations of citizens who are willing to invest their time and talents in strengthening the community through public service. Previous experience is not required, only a genuine desire to make a positive difference.
Residents interested in serving, or those wishing to nominate someone they believe would be an excellent candidate, are encouraged to contact their Kershaw County Council representative or Hannah Parler at the Kershaw County Council Office for additional information about the appointment process.
The Kershaw County Clean Commission believes that strong communities are built by citizens who are willing to step forward and serve. By filling these vacancies, the Commission will continue its work of encouraging civic pride, reducing litter, recognizing beautification efforts, and fostering partnerships that benefit all Kershaw County residents.
Lauren Decker KCL Librarian
Post 195 Supports KC Parks & Rec, LEHS Trident Club
The Larry Jeffers American Legion Post 195 and Auxiliary Unit 195 presented checks to the Kershaw County Recreation Department to sponsor four youth T-Ball, softball, and baseball teams today, Friday, July 24, and to Lugoff-Elgin High School's Trident Club athletic boosters.
Post member Ruppert Baird presented checks to both organizations today. Receiving the check for the Recreation Department was Athletic Superintendent Jeremy Murphy at the department's offices on west DeKalb Street. Accepting the check at the school's Health Center for the Trident club were club president Julie Lyons and Katie Hinson.
The post continues to support youth sports in Kershaw County, having supported a variety of youth and school sports and clubs for over a decade. The post has formerly sponsored Lugoff-Elgin club Rugby, and continues to support Recreation Department sports, American Legion softball and youth marksmanship team, LEHS cross country, baseball, softball, and Junior ROTC rifle team, and KC Elite wrestling, among
others.
The American Legion’s youth programs intend to help shape the next generation of American leaders by fostering citizenship, character, and a deep respect for our nation’s founding principles. The Legion provides opportunities that build confidence, discipline, and civic responsibility through American Legion Baseball and Softball, Junior Shooting Sports, and a wide range of scholarships. These programs promote citizenship, leadership, service, and opportunity while ensuring future generations are ready to uphold the principles of justice, freedom, and democracy.
If you are a veteran and you would like to help support the efforts of the Legion, then membership in the American Legion, contact Post 195. Membership is open to all active, Reserve, and National Guard personnel, as well as all veterans who have served since December 7, 1941 and who has received a discharge under honorable conditions. More information about the post can be found at www.alpost195.com
Boan Is Sheriff’s Association President
At Sheriff Lee Boan's request, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson administered the oath of office as Sheriff Boan was officially sworn in as President of the South Carolina Sheriffs' Association (SCSA) during the Association's Annual Conference in Myrtle Beach. The swearing-in ceremony, attended by sheriffs from across the state, marked the beginning of Sheriff Boan's term leading the statewide organization.
Joining Sheriff Boan for this special occasion was his wife, Jennifer, who stood by his side during the ceremony. Also in attendance were Kershaw County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Tyrrell "Rock" Coleman and his wife, Angel, who were present to celebrate the historic milestone.
This appointment represents a significant moment for Kershaw County. Sheriff Boan is the first Kershaw County Sheriff to serve as President of the South Carolina Sheriffs' Association since Sheriff D.E. "Footsie" Hilton held the position in 1965.
Sheriff Boan's election reflects the confidence and respect of his fellow sheriffs and highlights his unwavering commitment to advancing law enforcement, strengthening public safety, and serving the citizens of South Carolina. As President of the Association, Sheriff Boan will help guide statewide initiatives, foster collaboration among South Carolina's sheriffs, and advocate for policies that enhance public safety and support law enforcement agencies across the state.
His election continues the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office's proud tradition of leadership, professionalism, and service to the community.
N. Cannon, Jr.
Arien Cannon