Volume 22, No. 9A
“A Companion for People who Live, Work, & Play in Elgin, Lugoff and Camden”
September 10, 2026
HONORING CHRIS DELONG
END OF WATCH AUGUST 29, 2026
SEE PAGES 8
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News From KC Council --Honoring Chris DeLong-By: Councilman Derek Shoemake
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Letter Submissions
The Elgin News
wants to hear from you It is the policy of The Elgin News to encourage reader participation on its editorial page. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. Because of space limitations, we must limit all contributors to one letter per person per month. Letters of 200 words or less will be published unless they contain language or content that the editors feel is inappropriate. Examples of content that will cause letters to be rejected include the following: • Disrespectful comments regarding a group's or individual's ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, religion, culture, or race. • Poor taste. • Endorsements for or complaints about • individually named commercial products or services. • Personal attacks. 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. Letters written in response to other letter writers should address the issue at hand and, rather than mentioning the writer by name, should refer to the headline and date the letter was published. Discourse should be civil and people should be referred to in a respectful manner. Letters referring to news stories should also mention the headline and date of publication. 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:
There are some columns that are easy to write. This is not one of them. Over the last several days, our community has mourned the loss of Officer Chris DeLong, Jr., a young husband, father, friend and police officer whose life ended far too soon in the line of duty. Chris was 29 years old when he was killed on August 29 while serving as an officer with the Columbia Police Department. He left behind his wife, Hannah, and their two young children, Stella and Sutton. But here in Elgin and Kershaw County, Chris was more than a name on a news report.
He was one of ours. Chris participated in the Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office Explorers program, following a path into law enforcement that his father - one of Elgin’s finest - had also traveled. Law enforcement wasn’t simply a job Chris happened to have. It was in his blood. Those who worked beside him have described a man who loved being a police officer, loved the people he served with, and loved his family. Last week, Elgin had the opportunity to show Chris’s family what he meant to this community. Hundreds gathered at the Elgin Community Center for a candlelight vigil. There were family members, friends, neighbors and law enforcement officers from across the Midlands. Officer David Dymock, who was wounded in the same incident that took Chris’s life, was there as well. Sheriff Lee Boan captured the meaning of that evening when he asked everyone to look at the candles and think about how each small flame pushes back the darkness. That is a fitting way to think about Chris. Police officers spend their careers walking toward situations the rest of us instinctively walk away from. They answer calls without knowing who will be waiting on the other side of a door. They leave spouses and children at home and accept risks that most of us will never be asked to accept. Chris answered one of those calls. And he made the ultimate sacrifice. But I don’t want the final moments of Chris’s life to become the only thing we remember about him. His life was bigger than the circumstances of his death. He was a husband who loved Hannah. He was Dad to Stella and Sutton. He was a son, brother and friend. He was someone who seemed to know people everywhere he went, who would stop to talk and laugh, and who was loyal, caring, funny and dependable. That is the Chris DeLong his children deserve to grow up hearing about. At his funeral Friday, Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook made a similar point. A person’s impact, he said, isn’t necessarily measured by the number of years he lived, but by the family he SEE SHOEMAKE, PAGE 4 >>
The Elgin News P.O. Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045
Cate Goff, Publisher (803) 513-5108
The Elgin News builds community and brings people together by informing everyone about local businesses, services, schools organizations, government, activities, events and other information useful for becoming involved. It helps those who live and work in Elgin to get to know each other as people and to become friends. The Elgin News accepts no responsibility for the contents of the advertisements or articles. Advertisements and articles are accepted with the full responsibility of the advertiser for worth and accuracy. Readers who wish to comment or have concerns regarding advertisements contained herein are urged to phone the Elgin News at (803) 513-5108. The Elgin News will discontinue accepting advertising from firms of alleged dubious reputation. Rates are net - discount agreements must be reflected on the publication order. Invoices due on receipt. Tearsheets and proofs available upon request. Advertising setup, changes and publication verification are provided at no charge. 15% agency comm. is 30-days firm. Photography charges negotiable. By-line articles are the property of the contributor and may not be reproduced without permission.
The Elgin News, PO Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045 · (803) 513-5108 Cate Goff, Publisher · Email: elginnews@gmail.com 2
September 10, 2026
Sury Announces Candidacy For School Board
Mark Sury has announced his candidacy for Kershaw County School Board Seat 2 in the Nov. 3 election. Sury’s involvement in education began long before he joined the school board. In 2001, as a parent at Blaney Elementary, he served as chairman and vice chairman of the School Improvement Council (SIC), working alongside parents, teachers, administrators and community members. “That experience taught me something I’ve carried with me ever since: you can’t truly represent a school if you don’t know the people inside it,” Sury said. As his children progressed through the district, so did his involvement. At Stover Middle, he again served as SIC chairman and vice chairman. His work included school improvement planning, monitoring progress toward school goals, contributing to the School Report Card and parent reports, and assisting school leadership with projects affecting students and families. He also served as a parent representative during the new principal interview process. At Lugoff-Elgin High School, he served as SIC chairman and vice chairman, and he sat
on the Kershaw County School District Calendar Committee. He also supported career and technical education through ATEC as SIC chairman. After more than a decade in our schools, Sury ran for the school board in 2014. He began his first term in 2015, was re-elected in 2018 and served through January 2023. On the board, Sury worked with fellow board members, district leadership, educators, families and community members as the district continued to change. He served as the board’s legislative contact from 2018 through 2022. For Sury, service has never been limited to the board table. He believes effective representation requires being present in the schools, knowing administrators and teachers, attending programs, listening to parents, supporting students and remaining accessible. Now, after 25 years with Kershaw County schools, Sury is asking the community for the chance to serve again. “Our students deserve people who will advocate for them. Our teachers and employees deserve people who will listen to them. Our parents deserve someone they can reach, and
Mark Sury, Candidate for KC School Board our community deserves experienced leadership that understands where we’ve been and where we need to go,” Sury said. “I believe there is still more work to do. Because experience matters. Relationships matter. Community matters. And together, we can build better schools for a better tomorrow.”
SERVING YOU FOR OVER 25 YEARS
20 TOWNLEE LANE SUITE A, LUGOFF LAWCONNELL.COM September 10, 2026
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KC Library: Book Clubs, Story Time & More By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Reading has always been one of my favorite pastimes. Some of my happiest childhood memories began with a walk to the library. I grew up only three blocks away, close enough to spend long summer days wandering the shelves and checking out whatever caught my imagination. If you are looking for books to read or give as gifts, be sure to put the Friends of the Kershaw County Library Book Sale at the Old Armory 1034 W DeKalb St., Camden on your calendar. This is the main fundraiser for the Bethune, Camden, and Elgin libraries. Friends’ Night is tonight, Thursday, September 10, 5 to 8pm for members only; though nonmembers may join at the door. The sale continues Friday, September 11, noon - 8pm; Saturday, September 12, 10am-5 pm; Sunday, September 13, noon - 5 pm; Friday, September 18, from noon - 8 pm; Saturday, September 19, 10 am- 5pm; and Sunday, September 20, from noon - 5 pm, when items are half price. Have you visited the library in Elgin? The Kershaw County Library’s Elgin branch, led by head librarian Hanna Gustafson, is located at 2652 Main St. Hanna said the branch offers books, eBooks, audiobooks, digital resources, and programs for all ages. Thursday story time is held at 10:30 am for babies through age three and at 11:30 am for children ages three to five. The library also hosts a homeschool group, Friday crafts, and twice-monthly after-school activities where teens ages 12 to 17 can meet and discuss topics of interest # hangout. The branch provides study rooms for after school tutoring, free digital access, and a welcoming space for learning, community gatherings, and activities such as knitting, crocheting, and quilting. There is also a community Health worker, Kristin Norwood, who can assist with basic needs with housing, food, or medical care. Call the library to check her
schedule and services: Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 6 pm, Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm. During the summer, the Elgin Library welcomes an average of 150 to 200 patrons each day. When school resumes in the fall, one to three tutors use space in the library. Anyone may obtain a free library card by visiting a Kershaw County branch and showing proof of county residency. Hanna hosts our Elgin Book Club, from 5 to 6 pm on the fourth Monday of each month. I asked members to complete a brief survey about their reading advice and what they enjoyed most about the Book Club. Several said they valued discussing books, hearing other perspectives, connecting with like-minded people, and discovering books they might not have chosen on their own. Favorite authors include J.D. Robb, C.J. Box, Lyla Sage, Mary Alice Monroe, James Patterson, and John Grisham. Most members enjoy romance and mystery, while a few prefer nonfiction and historical fiction. If a book does not hold your interest, the “experts” say it is perfectly fine to stop reading. I usually check the back cover, jacket description, or a few reviews first; if it still does not draw me in, I set it aside. Life is too short to force yourself through books you do not enjoy, and sometimes a good book simply is not the right book at the right time. If you are 50 or older, subtract your age from 100 as a suggested number of pages to read before deciding whether to continue. I keep a list of favorite authors so I can watch for their new releases, and I also enjoy nonfiction books about people, events, and topics that interest me. Library patrons may check out up to 30 books for three weeks. Reading 12 to 20 books a year is a strong habit, and finishing 50—about one book a week—makes someone an avid reader. Rather than struggling through a book you do not enjoy, move on to another; many readers do not finish every book they begin. Don't forget to shop The Friends of the Library Book Sale. There's something for everyone at the Book Sale. And the prices? Usually not more than $2. See you there!
SHOEMAKE, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 loved, the people he helped and the lives he touched. The City of CoWe should continue to pray for them. We should continue to suplumbia also posthumously promoted Chris to lance corporal. port them. And years from now, when Chris’s children ask what kind The television cameras will eventually leave. The stories will move of man their father was, I hope this community will still be here to tell down the news page. Life will return to something resembling normal them. for most of us. He was a man who loved his family. It will not return to normal for Hannah, Stella and Sutton, or for He was a man who served others. Chris’s parents, family, friends and fellow officers. He was a police officer. Our responsibility to them should not end when the ceremonies do. And Kershaw County will not forget him.
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September 10, 2026
September 10, 2026
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Time Capsule Fun At Doby’s Mill Elementary
Mrs. Lashley's students created a special class time capsule! They added their special items and captured a little snapshot of who they are right now. They sealed everything up and will keep it safe until the end of the school year, when they’ll reopen their time capsule and see how much everyone has grown and changed! They even included our school mascot, Splash, in their activities.
Camden Middle School Student Garden Grant
In December of 2025, Camden Middle school nurse, Amy Williams, was notified about the opportunity to receive a fully funded school garden through Clemson Extension and Alliance for a Healthier Generation. Health Teacher Tatiana Coleman immediately volunteered to apply and serve as the coordinator for the garden. CMS was selected for the garden in January and in May, the garden beds were installed by CMS Beta Club members. Sweet potatoes were planted first, grew over the summer, and were ready for harvest in August. All produce is provided by the grant, and our school family gets to benefit from fresh, healthy produce. The garden is maintained and cared for by the students at Camden Middle School. More vegetables will be ready for harvest in September. Mrs. DeLaCruz’s students have a restaurant and grocery store where they practice life skills. They are adding the mobile farmer’s market to their businesses this year. Students and staff are enjoying the harvest.
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September 10, 2026
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Pedestrian Unlawfully In Roadway: Reporting officer was advised of a possibly intoxicated suspicious person near the Elgin Library, which is within the Town limits of Elgin, heading further into the Town. Officer responded to the area and observed the Subject, black male walking on the side of the road at the intersection of Surry Lane and Main Street. In addition to seeing the Subject, Officer observed that an off duty Kershaw County Deputy, in a full marked police vehicle, had their lights activated as Officer turned around and activated their own. Upon making contact with the Subject, who was identified by SC DMV as Subject. Through conversation with Subject, Officer was able to determine that Subject had traveled from Columbia with intentions of walking to Washington D.C. With such a great distance to travel, Officer offered locations of both a Greyhound bus station as well as the Amtrak train station, believing both of those to be far quicker routes to get to Washington than walking. Subject expressed his concern about not having money to pay for the ticket even if he was able to get to one of those stations, assisting Kershaw Deputy advised that he would reach out to United Way come the morning if Subject was still waiting for a ticket to see if he could arrange something to get him to his destination. Once this information had been relayed to Subject and Dispatch confirmed that Subject did not have any active warrants, Officer advised Subject that he was free to continue walking as long as he liked, so long as he made sure to stay on the grass on the shoulder of the road and later on the sidewalk. As Subject began walking off, Officer deactivated their body camera as they were getting ready to leave, however as they got ready to enter their vehicle, they observed that Subject was once again walking on the roadway. Officer repeated advised Subject to move over to the side walk as they activated their body camera again, advising that if Subject continued walking in the roadway he would go to jail because he had been told numerous times that he needed to stay off the road. Subject approached Officer again, advising that he could not walk on the grass because it was people’s property and there could be things September 10, 2026
in his way. Officer explained that he could use the roadway to avoid something so long as he returned to the grass to continue walking. Subject stated that he had just come from Columbia where there are sidewalks and that he couldn’t walk on the grass because it wasn’t a sidewalk and it would take longer if he were to walk on the grass. Officer explained that the grass shoulder eventually gave way to a sidewalk further down the road and again advised that he needed to stay on the grass or he would go to jail. At this warning, Subject told Officer to take him to jail so that he could speak with a judge. When Officer asked if Subject would rather go to jail than walk on the grass, Subject responded in the affirmative, claiming that he would then be able to talk to a judge. Officer told Subject that he was free to leave, again, however he needed to stay on the grass and not in the roadway. After being told repeatedly over the course of a minute or so to walk on the grass, Subject turned to walk away from Officer, immediately walking in the roadway again. Upon seeing this happen, Officer followed Subject while giving commands for him to stop walking. When Subject finally did, Officer advised him that he was under arrest and to place his hands behind his back. At this time, Subject was taken into custody, searched incident to arrest before he was secured in the rear of Officer’s patrol vehicle. Once inside the patrol vehicle, Subject was transported to the Kershaw County Detention Center where he was booked without incident. During his arrest, Subject had a water bottle in his possession that was not allowed into the jail as it continued a liquid inside. This bottle was disposed of after Officer cleared from the jail. Both violator and trial officer copies of the citation were left at the jail for Subject to receive once he is cleared from the jail. Shoplifting: Officer was dispatched to the location, Food Lion in reference to a shoplifting where the suspect was still on scene. While Officer was en route to the location, Dispatch advised that the Subject was leaving the location and getting into a blue SUV that was pulling a trailer. Prior to Officer arriving on scene, the vehicle left on Pine Street heading towards White Pond Road. Officer circulated the area prior to making contact with the Complainant with negative results. Upon arrival on scene, Officer made contact
with the Complainant, Manager of Food Lion, who stated that she had followed the Subject around the store and observed him as he concealed merchandise in his pants. Manager stated that she had been watching the Subject, possibly a Hispanic male in all black clothing and a black bucket hat, when she suspected him of shoplifting. While speaking with Manager, she stated that she had CCTV footage of the male making selections of various merchandise before, mostly meats and Dove soap, before she watched him as he walked down both isles 10 and 11, actively shoving the merchandise down his pants. Manager stated that she followed the Subject down those isles before she watched him enter the wine area of the store. On CCTV the Subject can be seen in the wine isle before a customer makes him move toward the beer cooler. Once the Subject moves towards the beer cooler, he turned his back a little toward the camera before the item that is in his hand is concealed in his pants. After concealing the items, the Subject walks out of the Food Lion entrance closest to Subway, failing to render payment for the approximately $70 worth of meats and Dove soap, and makes his way towards a blue SUV in the parking lot. The blue SUV, which was pulling a trailer, can be seen being driven by an unknown white female as it leaves the parking lot heading towards Pine Street. During review of the footage, another possible suspect, an unknown white male with a backpack can be seen leaving from the vehicle heading towards Pine Street. Shortly after the white male leaves, the possibly Hispanic male enters the SUV and it begins heading towards Pine Street. Once on Pine Street, the vehicle slowed to pick up the white male with a backpack once again. Upon seeing that the male was involved with the blue SUV, Manager stated that other members of staff had notified her that there was a possibility that the white male had been attempting to shoplift as well. Manager was unsure if white male did manage to take any merchandise as she was occupied watching the initial suspect. Review of all footage didn’t lead to good photos of the Subjects nor the vehicle license plate. Officer attempted a search of Flock but got negative results. 7
Honoring Chris DeLong
Christopher Michael DeLong Jr., lovingly known as Chris, was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, friend and police officer whose life was defined by his love for his family, his compassion for others and his desire to serve. Above everything else, Chris was a family man. His wife, Hannah, and their children, Stella and Sutton, were the center of his world. Any time Chris had away from work, there was nowhere he would rather be than with them. He loved taking care of his family and took great pride in making sure they had everything they needed. Whether he was singing and dancing around the house, playing outside with his babies or simply spending time together, Chris found his greatest happiness in being a husband and dad. He loved deeply and made that love known. Chris had a personality that drew people to him. There seemed to be nowhere he could go without running into someone he knew, and he would always take the time to stop, talk, laugh and catch up. He was a friend to everyone and the kind of person people genuinely enjoyed being around. He was loyal, caring, funny and dependable, the kind of friend, son, brother, husband and father anyone would be fortunate to have. When he had the opportunity, Chris enjoyed duck hunting and playing video games with his buddies. But even among the things he enjoyed, nothing compared to being home with Hannah, Stella and Sutton. Chris joined the City of Columbia Police Department on June 10, 2024, fulfilling a dream he had worked hard to achieve. He graduated from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in January 2025 and began the career he had been so excited to pursue. From the beginning, Chris embraced being a police officer wholeheartedly. His squad quickly became far more than coworkers. They became brothers and sisters. Chris loved his job, loved the people he served alongside and was proud to wear the badge. On June 18, 2025, while still early in his career and recently out of field training, Chris and two of his fellow officers responded to a serious, life-threatening situation and helped save a life. For their actions, Chris and his fellow officers were recognized with a Life Saving Award in August 2025. His service was marked not only by action, but also by compassion. Following another call in November 2025, Chris received recognition after victims specifically praised the compassion, understanding and empathy he showed them. He refused to give up until he could help provide the answers they needed. That was Chris. He was ambitious, driven and genuinely wanted to make a difference. If there was a wanted subject to locate or a warrant to serve, Chris was often one of the first officers ready to go. He enjoyed proactive police work and especially loved running radar, something that became a favorite after earning his radar certification. He was also proud to serve as a member of the department's Mobile Field Force. Chris was never someone who simply showed up and did the min-
Above, Chris DeLong with wife Hannah, and children Stella and Sutton. imum. He wanted to be involved. He wanted to learn. He wanted to become better at his profession, and he wanted to help those around him do the same. Even though he was still relatively early in his own law enforcement career, Chris never hesitated to help the officers who came behind him. He understood the importance of having someone willing to answer questions, offer guidance and help a new officer find their footing. He took pride in sharing what he had learned and helping mold those who were beginning their own careers. His ambition, work ethic, compassion and willingness to help others made an impression in a remarkably short period of time and left a lasting impact on the officers who had the privilege of serving alongside him. Chris was living his dream. But beneath the uniform was the same Chris his family and friends knew and loved, the man who wanted to come home to his wife and babies, who would sing and dance with them, play outside with them, take care of them and make sure they knew every day how much they were loved. SEE DELONG, PAGE 9 >>
SCAN TO DONATE TO THE DELONG FAMILY 8
September 10, 2026
DeLong Honored At Candlelight Vigil
Hundreds filled the Elgin Community Center on Wednesday, September 2nd for a candlelight vigil honoring Columbia Police Officer Chris DeLong Jr., who was killed in the line of duty. It was standing room only as family, friends, fellow first responders and neighbors held candles and remembered a man who grew up in Kershaw County. Kershaw County Sheriff Lee Boan and Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook were among those who spoke during the ceremony, and singer-songwriter Patrick Davis, who has ties to the county, performed a song for DeLong on the video board.
DELONG, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 Chris was survived by his loving wife, Hannah DeLong, and their beloved children, Stella and Sutton DeLong. He was also survived by his mother, Angela Graham; his father, Christopher DeLong Sr., and his wife, Ellen DeLong; his siblings, Maranda DeLong and Keaton Chavis, Korryn Hollis and her husband, Mark Hollis, Aaron Monette, Adalynn Graham and Carleigh Graham; and his grandmother, Kathy Gworek. He was also survived by his grandmother, Deborah DeLong, whose late husband, Dennis DeLong, preceded Chris in death. Chris also left behind his nieces and nephews, Jaxtin Chavis, Parker Chavis and Haven Hollis, along with countless extended family members, friends, fellow officers and members of the community whose lives were touched by him. Through his marriage to Hannah, Chris was also blessed with a loving extended family, including Hannah's parents, Angel Jeffcoat and her husband, Rudy Jeffcoat, and Thomas Church and his wife, Suzanne Church; her sister, Taylor Williams, and her husband, Christian Williams; and her grandparents, Jackie Church and his wife, Ruth Church, and Teddy Chrisman and his wife, Beverly Chrisman. Chris' time was far too short, but the impact of his life cannot be measured simply in years. It can be found in the family he loved beSeptember 10, 2026
yond measure, the friendships he built, the lives he helped, the officers he encouraged, the community he served and the memories that will forever remain with those who knew him. To Stella and Sutton, he will always be Dad. To Hannah, he will always be the man who loved and cared for his family with everything he had. To his family and friends, he will always be Chris. To his brothers and sisters in blue, he will always be one of their own. And to all who loved him, he will always be our hero. A visitation was held at Dunbar Funeral Home, 3926 Devine St. in Columbia, on Thursday, Sept. 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. Chris lay in state at Riverland Hills Baptist Church, 201 Lake Murray Blvd. in Irmo, on Friday, Sept. 4, from 10 to 11 a.m. A funeral honoring his life began at 11 a.m. at the church. During Friday's service, Chief Holbrook posthumously promoted Officer DeLong to the rank of lance corporal, recognizing his courage, dedication, character and commitment to serving the City of Columbia. Burial honors followed the service at Greenhaven Memorial Gardens, 11020 Two Notch Road in Elgin. Dunbar Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements. 9
LEHS Unified Students Fall Activities
Lugoff Elgin High School Unified Students and their Be A Fan helpers have been busy preparing for two exciting fall events—one at the bowling alley and another in the school garden. Unified Olympics athletes and their families have been dedicating their Saturdays to bowling practice as the athletes work to earn a spot in the Unified Olympics Fall State Games on October 31. Marquez Tantype and Alyse Day have participated in the practices with the support and encouragement of Coach Middleton and Coach Meiler. Meanwhile, students in the life skills class have been nurturing
pumpkin seedlings they planted on July 31. Their goal is to have school-grown pumpkins ready for carving into jack-o’-lanterns by October 23—and perhaps even enough pumpkins to make homemade pumpkin pies in November. During enrichment, Janayah Tucker, Marquez Tantype, Christopher Dimapan, Brili Dixon and Angela Montes have worked together to care for the garden. Through their dedication and teamwork, the students are looking forward to enjoying the fruits—and pumpkins—of their labor this fall.
Share Your Love Of Reading - AND Win!
This September, Kershaw County Library (KCL) is celebrating Library Card Sign-Up Month with a challenge: How many new readers can you bring to the Library? Current library cardholders can pick up referral cards at any KCL location and give them to friends and family who don’t have library cards. When someone brings in your referral card and signs up for a new library account, you get credit for the referral. The cardholder with the most new sign-ups by September 30 wins a bookish swag basket, including a retro library-themed tote bag, socks, mug, hat and a bookmark—everything you need to let the world know you’re the Library’s biggest fan and an avid reader. And don’t forget the kids! KCL issues library cards from birth onward, and getting a card for a child counts toward the contest. Reading to young children is one of the most positive things parents and caregivers can do to encourage language development, learning, and a lifelong love of books. There’s no such thing as being too young for the Library. Why convince someone to get a library card? Because it’s free—and it opens the door to a lot more than the books on the shelves at your local branch. KCL cardholders have access to millions of books shared through the SC LENDS consortium. If KCL doesn’t own the book you want, 10
chances are another library does—and you can request it for delivery to your local branch. New books are added all the time, and cardholders can also enjoy free eBooks and downloadable audiobooks from their phones, tablets, and other devices. Your card also provides access to free streaming movies and television, plus some less expected offerings. Want to start a book club? You can even check out an entire book club set with enough copies for your whole group to read together. Reading entertains us, introduces us to new ideas, expands our understanding of the world, and gives us more to talk about. So why not recruit the people you spend your time with? More readers in your circle could make everybody’s life a little more interesting—and maybe make your friends and family even more fun to hang out with. With all those benefits, handing out referral cards should be an easy sell. After all, library cards are free. The challenge is simple: Pick up referral cards. Give them to people who don’t have library cards. Get them reading. The person with the most new cardholders wins. Referral cards are available at the Camden, Elgin, and Bethune branches, and the contest runs through September 30, 2026. For operating hours, directions, and more information, visit kershawcountylibrary.org. September 10, 2026
September 10, 2026
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Former LEHS Principal, Coach Laid To Rest In Lexington, SC
30thANNUAL
SATURDAY SEPT. 26 9 AM - 1 PM CAMDEN CITY ARENA 420 BROAD STREET
Schedule Johnny Deal for your family or event photos, and check out his site to access community event photos! 803.427.0883 | jdeal151@yahoo.com
MONTHLY BOOKKEEPING PAYROLL TAX PREPARATION 803.408.0200 | 1211 Pine Street, Elgin | JohnBLane.com
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Burnan Creig Tyler, 78, of Lexington, entered into eternal rest on Monday, Aug. 31, 2026. Born on March 13, 1948, in Conway, Creig was the son of the late Rev. Royce Burnan Tyler and Violet Fenters Tyler. Creig graduated from Beaufort High School in 1966, where he competed on both the Tidal Wave football and track and field teams. During his senior year at Beaufort, he broke the South Carolina state record in the discus throw, a record that stood for several years into the 1970s. He graduated from The Citadel in 1970, where he was a three-year starter at offensive guard for the Bulldogs. Selected as a co-captain for the 1969 season, Creig earned first-team All-Southern Conference and Honorable Mention All-American honors during his senior year. In 2016, he was inducted into The Citadel Athletic Hall of Fame. Known affectionately as “Coach Tyler” or “Mr. Tyler” by thousands of former players, Craig Tyler students and staff members, Creig was a lifeFormer LEHS Coach & Principal long educator. He coached high school football for 17 years, with stops at Spring Valley and Irmo high schools, while also serving as head football coach and athletic director at Manning, Lugoff-Elgin and Lancaster high schools. Following his coaching career, he transitioned into school administration, serving as principal of both Lugoff-Elgin and Lexington high schools over the course of nearly 20 years. Creig dearly loved the communities of Lugoff-Elgin and Lexington, and the relationships he formed with students, teachers and the residents of those communities meant so much to him. More important than all of these accomplishments, however, was the love Creig had for his family. He was married for 56 incredible years to the love of his life, Gilda Reynolds Tyler of Lamar. He was not only a loving husband but also a devoted father to his children, Britt and Jared. That love grew even stronger with the arrival of his three cherished grandchildren, Tyler, Logan and Emerson. More than anything, Creig loved being surrounded by his family, joking and laughing together, sharing meals during the holidays and tailgating at Citadel Bulldog football games. For so many wonderful years, he and Gilda were the beating heart of the family. Creig was survived by his loving wife, Gilda; his children, Brittany Pool (Ryan) and Jared Tyler (Stacey); and his grandchildren, Tyler Olivia Pool, Logan Ellis Pool and Emerson Royce Tyler. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Tommy Royce Tyler and Rodney Nolan Tyler. The visitation and memorial services were held at Barr-Price Funeral Home in Lexington, 609 Northwood Road. The visitation began on Friday, Sept. 4, at 2 p.m., followed by the memorial service at 3 p.m. Because of limited space, the family respectfully asked that attendance at the visitation and funeral service be limited to extended family and a small circle of close friends, and deeply appreciated everyone’s understanding, love and support. The family invites readers to share fond memories and photos of Creig on his memorial page as they celebrate his life and the love he shared. https://www.barr-price.com/obituary/BurnanCreig-Tyler In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, komen.org.
LIST YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT FOR FREE: ELGINNEWS@GMAIL.COM · 803.513.5108
September 10, 2026
Candidate Forum Set For Sept. 17 in Camden
Concerned Citizens of Kershaw County will host a nonpartisan candidate forum for the South Carolina general election on Thursday, Sept. 17, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Liberty Hall in the Revolutionary War Visitor Center, 212 Broad St., Camden. The site is 1.4 miles from Interstate 20, Exit 98. The forum is intended to inform and educate Kershaw County voters about the general election candidates who would represent the county. All candidates have been invited. J.R. Green, former superintendent, author, leadership strategist and consultant, will moderate. Residents who want to ask a question during the Q&A should arrive between 5:15 and 5:50 p.m. to sign up.
‘Man Church’ at Pine Grove
Pine Grove Baptist Church will host Man Church 2026 on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10:47 a.m. to 1:07 p.m. at 836 Pine Grove Road in Lugoff. The event, open to men and boys, carries the theme "The Gospel of Grace" and the title "When Grace Becomes Your Mission." Howard Isom will serve as keynote speaker, with music by The Master's 3. Lunch will be served. Pre-register at PGBCSC.com.
Blankets & Bands Returns
Camden’s free Blankets & Bands concert series returns to Town Green beginning Thursday, September 10. Grab your blanket or lawn chair, gather your friends and family, and enjoy an evening of live music outdoors in Downtown Camden. The fall series kicks off with Hannah E & The Lynches River Boys, local favorites bringing classic country covers and original tunes to the stage. Pack a picnic or pick up takeout from one of Downtown Camden’s local restaurants and make an evening of it. On September 24, Blankets & Bands welcomes Raw Deal to the stage for the first time. Hailing from Lancaster, this band brings plenty of Southern grit and ’90s attitude, with a versatile mix of rock and country for all ages. The Sunrise Jazz Ensemble comes to Camden on Thursday, October 8. Led by acclaimed saxophonist Ken Cheeks and featuring guest vocalist Crystal Felder, this legendary group will fill Town Green with smooth jazz and groovy funk tunes. Closing out the fall series on Thursday, October 22, Jennifer & The Charles Project will bring a crowd-pleasing mix of blues, soul and a little rock and roll. Featuring rock-solid bass and drums, Robert Charles’s stellar guitar work and Jennifer Erickson’s signature vocals, this is one performance sure to get the crowd moving. All concerts will be held on Thursdays from 6 to 8:30 p.m., weather permitting. A student or young musician will open each concert, followed by the headlining band at 6:30 p.m. Beer and wine are permitted on Town Green during concert hours. Glass containers are not allowed. If a concert is canceled due to weather, notifications will be posted on the City’s website and social media channels. Blankets & Bands is a partnership between the Downtown Camden Cultural District and the Arts Center of Kershaw County, bringing free live music to the community each spring and fall. For concert details, visit experiencecamdensc.com or artscenterkc.org.
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September 10, 2026
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Lugoff Fire-Rescue Awarded $5k Grant
Lugoff Fire-Rescue (LF-R) has been awarded a grant totaling $5,000 by Fairfield Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round-Up Program. This funding will enable LF-R to purchase smoke alarms for the residences in the LF-R District. LF-R Assistant Chief Will Catoe applied to Fairfield Electric Cooperative for assistance with this project. LF-R’s goal is to ensure each home in the Lugoff Fire District has working smoke alarms. This grant funding will allow Lugoff Firefighters to place working smoke alarms in homes that do not have them at NO CHARGE. Working smoke alarms save lives by giving occupants precious time to exit their home before being overcome by the toxins of smoke during a fire. Smoke alarms should be tested at least once a month and ensure everyone knows the sound of the alarm and how to respond. Ensure batteries are replaced at least once a year or replace smoke alarms with newer 10-year long-life alarms. Smoke alarms should be replaced when they are 10 years old. Smoke alarms should be installed in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home. If you need smoke alarms or would like LF-R firefighters to come out and conduct a free safety check of your home, please call LF-R at 803-438-2553 extension 1 or visit LF-R Headquarters located at 892 Highway 1 South, Lugoff, SC 29078.
LEHS Swimmers Set Team Record, Move To 8-2
The Lugoff-Elgin swim team picked up 15 new state cuts and a new team record Sept. 3 at the Kershaw County Aquatic Center, improving to 8-2 on the season. A state cut is a qualifying time set by the South Carolina High School League. A swimmer who meets or beats the standard in an event earns a spot in that event at the state championship meet.
The boys 200-yard freestyle relay of Jacob Hodges, Reagan O'Hara, Harlin Boyce and Parker Watts touched in 1 minute, 44.17 seconds to break the school record. Twenty swimmers posted a new best time, with 28 best times and 14 first-time event times overall. New state cuts on the girls side went to Lydia Cyrier in the 200 free and 100 backstroke, Lyla Poe in the 200 individual medley, Allyssa Tutt and Skyler Scott in the 50 free, and Zoe Branham in the 100 free. On the boys side, Watts qualified in the 50 free and 100 butterfly, Hodges in the 200 free and 100 butterfly, Will Hodges in the 200 free and 100 breaststroke, Boyce in the 200 IM and 100 backstroke, and O'Hara in the 200 IM. Five swims produced improved state times, meaning the swimmer had already qualified and went faster, which helps seeding at the state meet. Those came from Nathan Reid in the 50 free, Presley Guster in the 100 free, the girls 200 free relay of Branham, Guster, Tutt and Cyrier, and the boys 400 and 200 free relays. Pictured above, from left, Jacob Hodges, Reagan O’Hara, Harlin Boyce and Parker Watts broke the Lugoff-Elgin 200-yard freestyle relay record with a time The Demons swim again later this month. of 1 minute, 44.17 seconds Sept. 3 at the Kershaw County Aquatic Center. 14
September 10, 2026
Honoring Homegrown Hero, Christopher DeLong Jr.
A week after our community gathered to lay Columbia Police Officer Christopher DeLong Jr. to rest, I want to take a moment to address our residents directly as we continue to grieve and heal together. I want to thank everyone in our community for all the love and support you showed the family of fallen Lance Corporal DeLong. Although he worked outside of our jurisdiction with the Columbia Police Department, he is one of our own. He lived here, raised his family here, and his roots run deep in our county. Our entire community mourns a homegrown hero. Lance Corporal Chris DeLong didn’t just do a job; he lived out a calling. He had a whole life ahead of him, a beautiful young family, and a department that loved him dearly. He was the kind of young officer who reminded all of us in law enforcement why we put on the uniform every single day—full of hope, energy, and a heart for service. While the funeral services have concluded and the ceremonial honors have passed, the real work of surrounding his loved ones in love and care is only beginning. I ask that you continue to pray with me for his loving wife, Hannah, and their two beautiful children, Stella and Sutton. Please keep all of their family members in your thoughts and prayers. They will need our strength, our presence, and our support even more in the dark days ahead. As your Sheriff, I could not be prouder of how our county came together during this painful chapter, and I know we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the DeLong family for years to come. DeLong was posthumously promoted to Lance Corporal by the City of Columbia. 317 was DeLong’s badge number with the City of Columbia.
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September 10
Hannah E & The Lynches River Boys Country, Covers & Original Music
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September 24 Raw Deal
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