February 22, 2017 by The Sumter Item

IN SPORTS: Lady Barons to face CN in 3A state tourney

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Step Off! Performers from 3 states will compete in the 5th annual Lemira Golden Steppers show

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Family, puppy survive blaze Council

approves parkway rezoning BY JIM HILLEY jim@theitem.com

SAMMY WAY / THE SUMTER ITEM

Flames engulf a home at 104 Church St. on Tuesday morning.

Tuesday morning fire guts Victorian-era Church Street home BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com After thinking everything was lost during a house fire at 104 Church St. on Tuesday morning, firefighters rescued a puppy from the scene. Sumter Fire Department Battalion Chief Joey Duggan said the call for the fire came in at 10:07 a.m. and 26 firefighters from five stations — Headquarters, Alice Drive, Manning Road, Thomas Sumter and Stadium Road — responded. He said there was heavy fire and smoke coming from the front of the house when firefighters arrived. It took about 45 minutes to get the fire under control, he said. Duggan said firefighters were able to quickly push the fire back in order to get

inside the structure to put out more flames. He said one resident was inside the house when the fire started and went to a neighbor’s house where the call to fire dispatch was made. Duggan said the family of four, two adults and two children, had four pets inside the house at the time of the fire. Three cats were lost in the fire, but a puppy was saved, he said. There is an estimated $350,000 in damage caused to the structure and approximately $100,000 in contents lost, he said. Duggan said a fire investigator was called to the scene to find an area of origin for the fire and possibly determine the cause. He said there was no reason to think the fire was suspicious.

RICK CARPENTER / THE SUMTER ITEM

Neighbor Cindy Macias clutches a puppy saved from a house fire by the Sumter Fire Department on Tuesday. Macias lives next door to the home that burned at 104 Church St. and was able to reunite the puppy with the homeowner.

Sumter City Council approved an ordinance to allow multi-family apartments on the south side of Patriot Parkway near Deschamps Road at Tuesday’s regular meeting. Some residents of the area led a coordinated campaign against the proposal, and members of the public who attended the meeting were asked by opponents to hold up signs during council’s vote urging council to vote against the ordinance. Martin Graf, an Air Force retiree, was one of the people passing out signs. Graf said he and other area residents were promised the area would remain agricultural and single dwellings when he purchased a house there. Members of council pointed out they could find no record of any such promises and that the city would not have been involved in any agreement when that area was still in Sumter County. Councilman David Merchant said he reached out to former councilmen and was told no such promises were made. “City council could not make a promise outside city limits,” he said. Merchant said the only policy documents he found concerning the area show a 50foot landscaping buffer which ends at Lisbon Drive, east of the proposed zoning change. Opponents of the rezoning had also argued development of the property would encroach on Shaw Air Force Base. Councilman Robert Galiano said he had spoken with several people at the base, and none said it would be a problem. In response to a request from council, Planning Director George McGregor showed

SEE COUNCIL, PAGE A5

Trump targets more immigrants for possible deportation BY ALICIA A. CALDWELL The Associated Press WASHINGTON — Many more people living in the United States illegally could face rapid deportation — including people simply arrested for traffic violations — under a sweeping rewrite of U.S. immigration enforcement policies announced Tuesday by the Trump administration. Any immigrant who is in the country illegally and is charged or convicted of any offense, or even suspected of a crime, will now be an enforcement priority, according to Homeland Security Depart-

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ment memos signed by Secretary John Kelly. That could include people arrested for shoplifting or minor offenses. The Trump administration memos replace more narrow guidance focusing on immigrants who have been convicted of serious crimes, are considered threats to national security or are recent border crossers. Under the Obama administration guidance, immigrants whose only violation was being in the country illegally were generally left alone. Those immigrants fall into two categories: those who crossed the border without

permission and those who overstayed their visas. Crossing the border illegally is a criminal offense, and the new memos make clear that those who have done so are included in the broad list of enforcement priorities. Overstaying a visa is a civil, not criminal, offense. Those who do so are not specifically included in the priority list but, under the memos, they are still more likely to face deportation than they had been before. The new enforcement documents are the latest efforts by

SEE ICE, PAGE A5

DEATHS, B5 Miles James Kepner Cary M. Lee Jr. James B. Snow William B. Ford Sarah Jane G. Smith

Alice H. Cutter Dayton J. Walker Javion Devonta Williams Edith B. Browning

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

An arrest is made earlier this month during a targeted enforcement operation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement aimed at immigration fugitives, re-entrants and at-large criminal aliens in Los Angeles.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017

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Call: (803) 774-1226 | E-mail: pressrelease@theitem.com

Red Cross seeking more donations Inclement weather and illnesses have led to canceled blood drives across nation BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com

canceled across the nation. That amounts to about 15,000 uncollected units of blood and platelet donations in a span of about two months, she said. Franklin said 43 blood drives were canceled in South Carolina and North Carolina during that time. She said the daily collection goal for South Carolina is 500 units. So far this year, Red Cross has collected 291 units of blood in Sumter, Franklin said. In 2016, Sumter col-

American Red Cross is asking the public for blood donations this winter, one of the organization’s slowest collection seasons. Maya Franklin, American Red Cross external communications manager, said inclement weather and illnesses such as the flu could be the reasons many blood drives have been canceled so far this winter. She said 400 blood drives have been

Public info officer certified as deputy

lected 1,600 units, she said. “The need for blood is constant. Patients don’t get a break from their illness or conditions,” she said. Franklin said there are three main uses for blood donations: red blood cells for trauma patients, plasma for burn victims and platelets for chemotherapy patients. Uses for blood products are as diverse as the patients who need them, she said. Upcoming blood drives will be held:

• 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Grace Baptist Church, 219 W. Calhoun St., Sumter; • 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at High Hills AME Church, 6780 Meeting House Road, Dalzell; and • 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday at Thomas Sumter Academy, 5365 Camden Highway, Dalzell. Anyone eligible and willing to donate can schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, going to redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.

Shaw celebrates black history with students

BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com On Feb. 10, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Ken Bell became the first public information officer in the agency’s history to be certified as a deputy after completing a twoweek Class III Officer’s training BELL course at South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in Columbia. Bell said he decided to get his certification because he wanted to be more helpful when responding to scenes. Becoming a Class III deputy will allow Bell to transport suspects to Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center, conduct funeral escorts and given him limited authority to make arrests. He will also be able to perform security during school events, sports events and in courtrooms. Bell said his main duties as public information officer have not changed. He said the only difference the public may see is that he will now wear a badge and carry a firearm, and he might be wearing a uniform during televised briefings. “Since day one, I’ve been treated like a part of the team. But now, I’m part of the family,” Bell said.

CORRECTION The photo on A10 of Sunday’s edition of The Sumter Item was taken by Brent King of Limelite Photography and not Bruce Mills.

If you see a statement in error, contact the City Desk at 774-1226 or pressrelease@theitem.com.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Senior Airman Gregory Johnson reads to Shaw Heights Elementary School students last week. Shaw personnel spent the mornings reading to each class in celebration of Black History Month.

Chop shop suspects face more charges BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com A Sumter County couple arrested in December on charges stemming from a chop shop operation now face additional charges from Sumter County Sheriff’s Office. On Friday, Anthony Todd Coursey, 49, of 3991 Country Lane, was charged with conspiracy, operating a chop shop, chop shop violation, having possession of a vehicle with an altered vehicle identification number and possession

of a stolen vehicle, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office. Christine Marie Connor, 36, of 2586 S.C. 261 S., Wedgefield, was charged with conspiracy, operating a chop shop, chop shop violation, having possession of a vehicle with an altered vehicle COURSEY identification number and possession of a stolen vehicle on Friday. When they were arrested in Decem-

ber, Coursey was charged with three counts of receiving stolen goods, breach of trust with fraudulent intent and conspiracy. Connor was charged with two counts of receiving stolen goods; two counts of altering, defacing or destroying a vehicle identification numCONNOR ber; and one count of conspiracy. According to the sheriff’s office, more arrests are possible.

HOW TO REACH US IS YOUR PAPER MISSING? ARE YOU GOING ON VACATION? 36 W. Liberty St., Sumter, S.C. 29150 (803) 774-1200 Jack Osteen Editor and Publisher / Advertising jack@theitem.com (803) 774-1238 Michele Barr Rick Carpenter Business Manager Managing Editor michele@theitem.com rick@theitem.com (803) 774-1249 (803) 774-1201 Gail Mathis Jeff West Clarendon Bureau Manager Customer Service Manager gail@theitem-clarendonsun.com jeff@theitem.com (803) 435-4716 (803) 774-1259

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017

Sumter Arts

Showcase turns

20 Many genres of dance will be featured in the 20th Annual Sumter Arts Showcase at Patriot Hall at 7 p.m. Saturday and 7 p.m.

‘Greatest Hits’ will benefit Tuomey Foundation BY IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com

he Sumter Arts Showcase, presented by Miss Libby’s School of Dance and The Junior Welfare League of Sumter, celebrates its 20th year with a retrospective of its greatest hits. In fact, “Greatest Hits” is the name of this year’s showcase. The 7 p.m. Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday performances are directed by Jennifer Reimer, who celebrates her 10th year with the showcase that benefits the Tuomey Foundation. Jeff Faw, executive director of the foundation, said Miss Libby’s has raised nearly $500,000 for the foundation. “We’re excited about going over the half-million-dollar mark raising funds for the foundation,” she said. “All the proceeds will go to what used to be called the Women and Infants Pavilion,” now the nurseries for infants and newborns. Because this year marks a double anniversary, Reimer said it’s a good time to look back at some of the favorite

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Abby Zilch and Nyra Talbert, above, performed together in the 2013 Sumter Arts Showcase Performers in this weekend’s Sumter Art Showcase range in age from 2 to 18 and are skilled at dances from jazz to hip-hop. All are volunteers, as are the backstage and technical crews. features often requested by audiences and performers. “We’re listening to our audi-

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ences,” she said, naming some of the pieces the company will be performing. “Our gymnas-

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‘We’re listening to our audiences …’ JENNIFER REIMER Artistic director, Miss Libby’s School of Dance, on ‘greatest hits’ lineup namic set and music add to the excitement of the showcase, she said. In addition to the dancers, “we’ve got a very talented technical crew,” she said. “David Shoemaker is the sound and light designer and technician, and Chris Reardon is doing our video and projections.” Backstage volunteers are parents of the performers and Junior Welfare League of Sumter members. The League is the presenting sponsor of “Greatest Hits.” Sponsors of the showcase, who donate $100 or more, are invited to the opening reception of what is often described as a “Broadway-type” show at 6 p.m. Saturday. The Rising Stars, a nonprofit group based at Miss Libby’s, will host a silent auction with dozens of special items during the reception. Funds raised will go toward their travel expenses. Miss Libby’s School of Dance & Gymnastics and signature sponsor The Sumter Junior Welfare League present the 20th Annual Sumter Arts Showcase to benefit The Tuomey Foundation at 7 p.m. Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday at Patriot Hall, 135 Haynsworth St. General admission tickets are $12 in advance and are available at Miss Libby’s on Wesmark Boulevard and at The Tuomey Foundation, 102 N. Main St. At the door, tickets will be $15. Donors of $100 or more receive a minimum of two tickets, including admission to the special reception at 6 p.m. Saturday and other benefits; they can be purchased from the foundation. Other sponsorship levels are also available. For more information, call (803) 7749014, (803) 469-8277 or visit www.tuomeyfoundation.com.

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tics team, the Elite Stars, will bring back their ‘Cirque du Soleil’ number, and we’ll resurrect the popular World War II tribute and ‘Viva Las Vegas’ with the showgirls.” In addition, Reimer said, the Rising Stars “will do a Sesame Street hip-hop dance.” One constant of the showcase for the past several years has been its emcee, Ann Floyd. “She’ll be back again for ‘Greatest Hits,’” Reimer said, “and she’s always very entertaining.” Expect some fun from Floyd, who always has a few surprises in store, too. Seth Reimer, technical director, noted that the showcase has brought several cities into Patriot Hall for its elaborate performances. From New York to Las Vegas, Hollywood to Rio de Janeiro, “Greatest Hits” will bring back some of the company’s most colorful favorites. The show is very family friendly, Jennifer Reimer said. “Holly DuBose will have her 5-year-olds, Rebecca Osteen’s 4- and 5-year-old students will perform, and Julie Horton will have her 2-, 3- and 4-year-olds.” Colorful costumes, a dy-

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Trump’s new national security adviser is a soldier-scholar WASHINGTON (AP) — President Trump has chosen as his national security adviser a soldier-scholar who fought in both Iraq wars and wrote an influential book that called out the U.S. government for “lies” that led to the Vietnam War. Army Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster would remain on active military duty while leading the National Security Council, White House officials said Monday. He joined two retired generals — Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly — already in Trump’s inner circle, adding to the impression that the president prefers military men in top roles. Trump called McMaster “a man of tremendous talent and tremendous experience” when he introduced his new national security adviser at his private Florida club. McMaster, who returned to Washington with the president, said he looked forward to “doing everything that I can to advance and protect the interests of the American people.” McMaster replaced retired Gen. Michael Flynn, who was fired last week after Trump

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

President Trump, center, sits with Army Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster, left, and retired Army Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, on Monday, where Trump announced that McMaster will be the new national security adviser. Kellogg, who had been his acting adviser, will now serve as the National Security Council chief of staff. He is the director of the Army Capabilities Integration Center, a sort of military think tank, at Fort Eustis, Virginia. McMaster commanded troops in both American wars in Iraq — in 1991, when he fought in a storied tank battle known as the Battle of 73 Easting, and again in 2005-06 in one of the most violent periods of the insurgency that developed after the U.S.-led invasion in 2003. He is credited

determined that Flynn had misled Vice President Mike Pence about the nature of his discussion with Russia’s ambassador to the U.S. during the presidential transition. The White House said McMaster was one of four candidates Trump interviewed for the job during the weekend. McMaster has been heavily involved in the Army’s efforts to shape its future force and its way of preparing for war.

with using innovative approaches to countering the insurgency in the northern Iraqi city of Tal Afar when he commanded the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment. He later served as a special adviser to the top U.S. commander in Iraq. McMaster, born in 1962, earned a doctoral degree in history from the University of North Carolina. Outside the Army, he may be best known for his 1997 book “Dereliction of Duty: Lyndon Johnson, Robert McNamara, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Lies that Led to Vietnam,” a searing indictment of the U.S. government’s mishandling of the Vietnam War. The book earned him a reputation for being willing to speak truth to power. How closely McMaster’s and Trump’s views align were not clear. On Russia, McMaster appears to hold a much dimmer view than Trump of Moscow’s military and political objectives in Europe.

In remarks at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in May 2016, McMaster said Russia managed to annex Crimea and intervene militarily in eastern Ukraine “at zero cost” from the international community. McMaster said Moscow’s broader goal is to “collapse the post-Cold War security, economic and political order in Europe and replace that order with something that is more sympathetic to Russian interests.” In his current role, McMaster has studied the way Russia developed and executed its campaigns in Crimea and Ukraine, where it used what some call “hybrid warfare” — part political, part disinformation, part military. The National Security Council has not adjusted smoothly to Trump’s leadership. The president has suggested he does not trust holdovers from the Obama administration and complained about leaks to reporters.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017

COUNCIL FROM PAGE A1 a slide from the most recent comprehensive plan that showed the property is within a multi-use zone, which would allow the proposed zoning. He said the property is also three-quarters of a mile from the military protection zone, which begins west of St. Pauls Church Road. Council approved the ordinance 5-2, with only Ione Dwyer and Steve Corley voting against it. Only a few attendees held up the signs that had been passed out earlier. Council also approved a property transfer of about 500 square feet from the city to a private developer at 31 N. Main St. at market value. Chief Russell Roark III presented Sumter Police Department’s annual report to council and told them overall crime in the city was down 33 percent in 2016 compared to 2010, as reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He said arrests have also been down in the same period. Councilwoman Ione Dwyer asked Roark about the city’s homeless population, and Roark responded that it is a “hard thing to put your arms around.”

JIM HILLEY / THE SUMTER ITEM

Opponents of a plan to rezone a property on Patriot Parkway hold up signs urging Sumter City Council to vote against the proposal. Council approved the plan 5-2 at Tuesday’s meeting. He said some people may have a house and not the resources to make it livable, while others prefer to stay on the streets. Many of the people the police en-

ICE FROM PAGE A1 President Donald Trump to follow through on campaign promises to strictly enforce immigration laws. He’s also promised to build a wall at the Mexican border — he insists Mexico will eventually foot the bill — and Kelly’s memos reiterate calls for Homeland Security to start planning for the costs and construction. Trump’s earlier immigration orders, which banned all refugees as well as for-

eigners from seven Muslimmajority countries, have faced widespread criticism and legal action. A federal appeals court has upheld a temporary halt. Kelly’s enforcement plans call for enforcing a longstanding but obscure provision of immigration law that allows the government to send some people caught illegally crossing the Mexican border back to Mexico, regardless of

counter on the streets have mental health issues, he said. “Mental health is not funded properly in South Carolina,” Roark said. Council approved a resolution al-

where they are from. Those foreigners would wait in that country for U.S. deportation proceedings to be complete.

lowing the sale of beer and wine at several annual events in 2017, with only councilman Calvin Hastie voting against. “I never liked the idea of allowing people to drink at our events,” Hastie said. Also approved by council was the final reading of an ordinance approving an agreement with a company to install energy-efficient lighting and heating at various city facilities. Hastie raised a concern about the status of the South Sumter Gym, which the city recently leased to The Salvation Army. He said he and Mayor Joe McElveen had visited the center during the day recently and found it all locked up. The councilman said he still hears from a lot of constituents who are concerned about local children being unable to use the facility, despite The Salvation Army’s assurances they will be allowed to enroll in the Boys & Girls Club program. “When will these projects start?” he asked. City Manager Deron McCormick said he had thought The Salvation Army would already have begun its program, but he will contact The Salvation Army to find out more.

This would be used for people who aren’t considered a threat to cross the border illegally again, the memo says.

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UNICEF, French president urge protection for children of war BY JEFF SCHAEFFER The Associated Press PARIS — Child soldiers, underage sex slaves, orphaned adolescent refugees — France’s president and UNICEF are urging the international community to do more to protect the more than 200 million children of today’s conflict zones. “The situation is as urgent as ever,” French President Francois Hollande pleaded as he opened a conference in Paris on Tuesday with representatives from 80 countries, decrying “the nightmare that killed these children’s innocence.” Organizers want coordinated efforts to liberate and re-integrate thousands of child soldiers from Sudan to Somalia and thousands of girls forced into wedlock by militants from Nigeria to Afghanistan. “Those who harm these children are harming what is most sacred to humankind,” Hollande said. “Killing and brutalizing children is negating civilization.” The conference is also pushing for tougher prosecution of abusers and protection for hospitals and schools targeted

in war zones, such as in Syrian government airstrikes on Aleppo recently. While 105 countries have signed onto promises made 10 years ago to protect conflict children, problems persist, and the conference is aiming at enlisting more governments in the effort. “Children do not belong on the battlefield. They belong in school. They belong in safe places where they are loved and protected from the battles that they had no hand in creating,” U.N. Children’s Fund director Anthony Lake told the conference. Hollande also called on Britain to take in more unaccompanied child refugees currently in France. “I call on the United King-

dom to shoulder its responsibilities concerning adolescents today in France currently who have families across the Channel. We have made efforts to shelter and welcome them. They want to go to the UK. We have agreements with our friend and neighbor country, and these agreements by our friend and neighbor must be fully respected.” Hundreds of unaccompanied teens and younger children were among thousands of migrants who converged on a filthy camp in Calais last year before it was dismantled in October. The children were taken to migrant centers across France pending British decisions on whether to accept them.

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A serviceman teaches children to operate weapons at a military training ground of Ukraine’s National Guard outside the village of Stare, the Kiev region, Ukraine. France’s president and UNICEF on Tuesday urged the international community to do more to protect the more than 200 million children of today’s conflict zones.

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Well at

THE SUMTER ITEM N.G. Osteen 1843-1936 The Watchman and Southron

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017 H.G. Osteen 1870-1955 Founder, The Item

H.D. Osteen 1904-1987 The Item

Margaret W. Osteen 1908-1996 The Item Hubert D. Osteen Jr. Chairman & Editor-in-Chief Graham Osteen Co-President Kyle Osteen Co-President Jack Osteen Editor and Publisher Larry Miller CEO Rick Carpenter Managing Editor

36 W. Liberty St., Sumter, South Carolina 29150 • Founded October 15, 1894

COMMENTARY

Nothing is truly for free I

t was Nobel laureate economist Milton Friedman who made famous the adage “There’s no such thing as a free lunch.” Professor Friedman could have added that there is a difference between something’s being free and something’s having a zero price. For example, people say that there’s free public education and there are free libraries, but public education and libraries cost money. Proof that they have costs is the fact that somebody has to have less of something by giving up tax money so that schools and libraries can be produced and operated. A much more accurate statement is that we have zeroWalter price public education and liWilliams braries. Costs can be concealed but not eliminated. If people ignore costs and look only to benefits, they will do darn near anything, because everything has a benefit. Politicians love the fact that costs can easily be concealed. The call for import restrictions, in the name of saving jobs, is politically popular in some quarters. But few talk about the costs. We know there are costs because nothing is free. Let’s start with a hypothetical example of tariff costs. Suppose a U.S. clothing manufacturer wants to sell a suit for $200. He is prevented from doing so because customers can purchase a nearly identical suit produced by a foreign manufacturer for $150. But suppose the clothing manufacturer can get Congress to impose a $60 tariff on foreign suits in the name of leveling the playing field and fair trade. What happens to his chances of being able to sell his suit for $200? If you answered that his chances increase, go to the head of the class. Next question is: Who bears the burden of the tariff ? If you answered that it’s customers who must pay $50 more for a suit, you’re right again. In his 2012 State of the Union address, President Barack Obama boasted that “over 1,000 Americans are working today because we stopped a surge in Chinese tires.” According to a study done by the Peterson Institute for International Economics (http://tinyurl.com/ jdtbktu), those trade restrictions forced Americans to pay $1.1 billion in higher prices for tires. So though 1,200 jobs were saved in the U.S. tire industry, the cost per job saved was at least $900,000 in that year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of tire builders in 2011 was $40,070. Here’s a question for those of us who support trade restrictions in the name of saving jobs: In whose pockets did most of the $1.1 billion that Americans paid in higher prices go? It surely did not reach tire workers in the form of higher wages. According to the Peterson Institute study, “most of the money extracted by protection from household budgets goes to corporate coffers, at home or abroad, not paychecks of American workers. In the case of tire protection, our estimates indicate that fewer than 5 percent of the consumer costs per job saved reached the pockets of American workers.” There is another side to this. When households have to pay higher prices for tires, they have less money to spend on other items — such as food, clothing and entertainment — thereby reducing employment in those industries. Some people point out that other countries, such as Japan, impose heavy tariffs on American products. Indeed, Tokyo levies a 490 percent tariff on rice imports to allow Japanese rice growers to gain higher income by charging Japanese consumers four times the world price for rice. Therefore, some suggest that Congress should even the playing field by imposing stiff tariffs on Japanese imports to the U.S. Such an argument differs little from one that says that because the Japanese government screws its citizens, the U.S. government should retaliate by screwing its own citizens. Putting the issue in another context: If you and I are at sea in a rowboat, and I commit the foolish act of shooting a hole in my end of the boat, would it be intelligent for you to retaliate by shooting a hole in your end of the boat? Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University. © 2017 CREATORS.COM

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR DEMOCRATS’ BEHAVIOR ASSURES ANOTHER LANDSLIDE VICTORY “Do as we say, not as we do.” I don’t remember the first time I heard that, but I am assuming it came from one of my parents when I was very young. It also appears to be the new Democrat motto. If I am not mistaken, I believe that, during the 2016 election cycle, the Democrats demanded to know where the email leaks came from. It didn’t seem to matter what was said; they just wanted to know where they came from. They didn’t seem to care what was said; after all, this is Hillary they were trying to appoint, er, get elected as president. I don’t remember hearing a single denial from any Democrat on the content; they were just hellbent on finding out who sent it. All the while continuing to support HRC in her bid to become president. Now, it seems the Democrats want to know what was said concerning Gen. Flynn and the Russians, saying it’s not important who sent it. Not surprising in the least. So now I understand “again” the differences in Democrat and Republican leadership. The Democrats endorsed someone who clearly was not qualified to run for POTUS, but it didn’t matter to them because they thought she was the best candidate. They covered for her, with help from the mainstream media, made Bernie a scapegoat, threw Debbie Wasserman-Schultz under the bus, blamed Huma Abedin for the downfall, etc. I could literally go on and on. On the other side of the coin, the Republicans (Trump) fired Flynn. Period. End of problem. I told you guys in 2015 and 2016 that Trump was going to win, simply because “we the people” are tired of the same old garbage going on in Washington. Every two years, Democrats get on their pedestals, promising this and that and doing absolutely nothing, except confuse people on which bathroom they should use, while

people who want to kill us are steadily coming into this country. We got tired of it. We changed it. And the way the Democrats are behaving, we are almost certain of a landslide again in 2018 and 2020. I saw a lip balm commercial on CNN the other day. DENNIS VICKERS Wedgefield

WE SHOULDN’T BE LOOKING FOR A CONFLICT WITH RUSSIA In recent weeks the mainstream media, Democrats and some Republicans have made much of the Trump administration’s relationship with Russia. Chuck Schumer, Nancy Pelosi, John McCain and Lindsey Graham would be well served to take some advice from President Obama when he told Mitt Romney “that the 80’s called and they want their foreign policy back.” The Russians are not our enemy, in spite of what John McCain and others may want. There were no Russians among the 9/11 highjackers. The Russians had nothing to do with the child pornography found on Anthony Wiener’s laptop that led to James Comey’s letter to Congress shortly before our last presidential election. As Jessica Vaughan noted in her Feb. 11 post (http://cis.org/ vaughan/study-reveals-72-terrorists-came-countries-covered-trumpvetting-order), “A review of information compiled by a Senate committee in 2016 reveals that 72 individuals from the seven countries covered in President Trump’s vetting executive order have been convicted in terror cases since the 9/11 attacks.” When you look at the committee’s data at http://cis. org/sites/cis.org/files/Terror%20 Arrests.senate%20judiciary.pdf, you find that of the 380 foreigners convicted on terror charges in the United States between Sept. 11, 2001, and Dec. 31, 2014, you find that in addition to the aforementioned 72 foreigners, there are over

60 from Pakistan, 15 from Egypt, 15 from Jordan, 10 from Afghanistan, eight from Saudi Arabia, six from Kuwait, five from the United Kingdom, but only one from Russia. And in Russia’s (and Saudi Arabia’s) defense, the intelligence agencies of both these countries warned the Obama administration about Dzhokhar Tsarnaev and Tamerlan Tsarnaev before these jihadis detonated pressure-cooker bombs during the 2013 Boston Marathon. It is not in our national interest to look for a conflict with Russia. Russia can be an important partner in defeating ISIS, just as the Soviet Union was an essential partner in defeating Nazi Germany. I believe we need to give the Trump administration a chance to see if it can work with the Russians to fight our common enemy, an enemy that has declared war on us. We currently have service members serving in harm’s way in Iraq and Afghanistan and other parts of the world. We don’t need to seek out unnecessary conflicts in the former Soviet Union. BRYAN GROVES Sumter

TRUMP IS CONCERNED ABOUT CORPORATE, PERSONAL WEALTH We are on the verge of losing everything that is great about America. Every action that the new administration has taken has had serious negative impact and consequences for all Americans. The nation and the world are watching a once proud and compassionate country become more arrogant and hateful toward its own people, not to mention the planet. Deceit and pure greed are more prevalent than ever before under the guise of moral Christian values. It is abundantly clear that this president is only concerned about creating more corporate and personal wealth at any cost to humanity. TOM SWAN Sumter

WHO REPRESENTS YOU SUMTER COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 Christopher F. Sumpter II 1200 Broad St., PMB 180 Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 305-9375 (cell) csumpter@sumtercountysc.org DISTRICT 2 Artie Baker 3680 Bakersfield Lane Dalzell, SC 29040 803-469-3638 (home) DISTRICT 3 James Byrd Jr. PO Box 1913 Sumter, SC 29151 (803) 468-1719 (cell) (803) 436-2108 (fax) jbyrd@sumtercountysc.org DISTRICT 4 Charles T. Edens 3250 Home Place Road Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 775-0044 (home) (803) 236-5759 (cell) cedens@sumtercountysc.org DISTRICT 5 Vivian Fleming-McGhaney 9770 Lynches River Road Lynchburg, SC 29080 (803) 437-2797 (home) (803) 495-3247 (office) vmcghaney@sumtercountysc.org DISTRICT 6 James T. McCain Jr.

317 W. Bartlette St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-2353 (home) (803) 607-2777 (cell) DISTRICT 7 Eugene Baten PO Box 3193 Sumter, SC 29151 (803) 773-0815 (home) council@sumtercountysc.org SUMTER CITY COUNCIL MAYOR Joseph T. McElveen Jr. 20 Buford St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-0382 jmcelveen@sumter-sc.com WARD 1 Thomas J. Lowery 829 Legare St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-9298 tlowery@sumter-sc.com WARD 2 Ione Dwyer PO Box 1492 Sumter, SC 29151 (803) 481-4284 idwyer@sumter-sc.com WARD 3 Calvin K. Hastie Sr. 810 S. Main St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 774-7776 chastie@sumter-sc.com

WARD 4 Steven Corley 115 Radcliff Drive Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 305-1566 scorley@sumter-sc.com WARD 5 Robert Galiano 608 Antlers Drive Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 469-0005 bgaliano@sumter-sc.com WARD 6 David Merchant 26 Paisley Park Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-1086 dmerchant@sumter-sc.com STATE LAWMAKERS Rep. Will Wheeler, D-Bishopville District 50 (803) 484-5454 (office, Bishopville) (803) 212-6958 (office, Columbia) (803) 428-3161 (home) (803) 229-2407 (cell) Rep. Joe Neal, D-Hopkins District 70 PO Box 5 Hopkins, SC 29061 (803) 776-0353 (home) (803) 734-9142 (fax) (803) 734-2804 (Columbia) jn@schouse.org

Rep. Dr. Robert L. Ridgeway III, D-Clarendon District 64 117 N. Brooks St. Manning, SC 29102 (803) 938-3087(home) (803) 212-6929 (Columbia) Rep. Murrell Smith Jr., R-Sumter District 67 PO Box 580 Sumter, SC 29151 (803) 778-2471 (business) (803) 778-1643 (fax) (803) 734-3042 (Columbia) murrellsmith@schouse.gov Rep. J. David Weeks, D-Sumter District 51 2 Marlborough Court Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 775-5856 (business) (803) 734-3102 (Columbia) Sen. Gerald Malloy, D-Darlington District 29 1216 Salem Road Hartsville, SC 29550 (843) 339-3000 (803) 212-6148 (Columbia) Sen. Kevin L. Johnson, D-Manning District 36 PO Box 156, Manning, 29102 (803) 435-8117 (home) (803) 212-6108 (Columbia) Sen. J. Thomas McElveen III, D-Sumter District 35 PO Box 57, Sumter, 29151

(803) 775-1263 (business) (803) 212-6132 (Columbia) NATIONAL LAWMAKERS Rep. Mick Mulvaney — 5th District 1207 Longworth HOB Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-5501 531-A Oxford Drive Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 327-1114 Rep. Jim Clyburn — 6th District 319 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-3315 1703 Gervais St. Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 799-1100 jclyburn@hr.house.gov Sen. Lindsey Graham 290 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 (202) 224-5972 Midlands Regional Office 508 Hampton Street, Suite 202 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 933-0112 (main) Sen. Tim Scott 167 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 (202) 224-6121 (202) 228-5143 (fax) 1301 Gervais St., Suite 825 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 771-6112 (803) 771-6455 (fax)

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? Send your letter to letters@theitem.com, drop it off at The Sumter Item office, 36 W. Liberty St., or mail it to The Sumter Item, P.O. Box 1677, Sumter, SC 29151, along with the writer’s full name, address and telephone number (for verification purposes only). Letters that exceed 350 words will be cut accordingly in the print edition, but available in their entirety at www.theitem.com/opinion/letters_to_editor.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017

SUPPORT GROUPS Tuesday, 5:30-7 p.m., Birnie AA, AL-ANON, ALATEEN: HOPE Center, 210 S. Purdy St. AA — Monday-Friday, noon Feb. 22, 2017 Support Groups: For anyone who has lost a and 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8 loved one to murder in a viop.m.; Sundays, 10:30 a.m. and lent way. 7 p.m., 1 Warren St. (803) 775EFMP Parent Exchange Group — 1852. Last Tuesday, 11 a.m.-noon, AA Women’s Meeting — Airman and Family Readiness Wednesdays, 7 p.m., 1 Warren Center. For service members St. (803) 775-1852. who have a dependent with a AA Spanish Speaking — Sundisability or illness. Call Dordays, 4:30 p.m., 1 Warren St. cus at (803) 895-1252/1253 or (803) 775-1852. Sue at (803) 847-2377. AA “How it Works” Group — WEDNESDAY MEETINGS: Mondays and Fridays, 8 p.m., 1154 Ronda St. Call (803) 494Sickle Cell Support Group — Last 5180. Wednesday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., South Sumter Resource Cen441 AA Support Group — Monter, 337 Manning Ave. Call days, Tuesdays and Fridays, (803) 774-6181. 8:30 p.m., Hair Force, 2090-D S.C. 441. Divorce Care — Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Bethel Baptist AA Summerton Group — Church, 2401 Bethel Church Wednesday, 8 p.m., town hall. Road. Call (803) 481-2160. Manning Al-Anon Family Group Grief Share — Wednesdays, — Thursdays, 7:30 p.m., Be6:30 p.m., Bethel Baptist havioral Health Building, 14 Church, 2401 Bethel Church Church St., Manning. Call (803) Road. Call (803) 481-2160. 435-8085. C/A “Drop the Rock” Group — THURSDAY MEETINGS: Thursdays, 9:30 p.m., 1154 TOPS S.C. No. 236 (Take Off Ronda St. Call (803) 607-4543. Pounds Sensibly) — Thursdays, 9 a.m., Spectrum Senior CenMONDAY MEETINGS: ter,1989 Durant Lane. Call Sumter Vitiligo Support Group — (803) 775-3926 or (803) 469Second Monday, 5:45-6:45 4789. p.m., North HOPE Center, 904 Alzheimer’s Support Group N. Main St. Call (803) 316-6763. through S.C. Alzheimer’s AssociaAlso on Facebook. tion — First Thursday, 6-8 p.m., National Health Care, 1018 N. TUESDAY MEETINGS: Guignard Drive. Call (803) 905Heroin Anonymous — Tuesdays, 7720 or (800) 636-3346. 9:30-10:30 p.m., 4742 Broad St. Journey of Hope (for families of Call (803) 494-5180. the mentally ill), Journey to ReSumter Connective Tissue Supcovery (for the mentally ill) and port Group — First Tuesday of Survivors of Suicide Support January, March, May, July, Group — Each group meets September and November, 7 every first Thursday, 7 p.m., St. p.m., 180 Tiller Circle. Call John United Methodist (803) 773-0869. Church, 136 Poinsett Drive. Mothers of Angels (for mothers Call (803) 905-5620. who have lost a child) — First Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Tuesday at noon and third Group — Fourth Thursday each Tuesday at 6 p.m., Wise Drive month, 10-11:30 a.m., Palmetto Baptist Church. Call (803) 469Health Tuomey Hospice, 500 6059, (803) 979-4498, (803) 469Pinewood Road, Suite 2. Call 4506 or (803) 938-8544. (803) 773-4663. Sumter Combat Veterans Group Peer to Peer — Tuesdays, 11 FRIDAY MEETINGS: a.m., South HOPE Center, 1125 Celebrate Recovery — Fridays, 6 S. Lafayette Drive. Veterans p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. program, helping veterans with PTSD, Salt & Light Church, Miller coping skills, claims, etc. Road (across from Food Lion). “The Gathering” — Second For struggles of alcohol, Tuesday, 5:30-6:30 p.m., North drugs, family problems, smokHOPE Center, 904 N. Main St. ing, etc. For teens and adults with speWateree AIDS Task Force Support cial needs. Call (803) 972-0051 Group — Third Friday, 11:30 or (803) 468-5745 or email thea.m., 508 W. Liberty St. Call gathering23@aol.com. (803) 778-0303. Sumter Amputee Support Group — Second Tuesday, 6:30 p.m., SATURDAY MEETINGS: Sumter Prosthetics & OrthotReflex Sympathetic Dystrophy/ ics, 259 Broad St. Call (803) Complex Regional Pain Syndrome 883-4356. Support Group — Third SaturSumter Chapter Parents of Murday, 1:30 p.m., 3785 Blackberry dered Children (POMC) — Third Lane, Lot 7. Call (803) 481-7521.

PUBLIC AGENDA GREATER SUMTER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Today, noon, chamber office, 32 E. Calhoun St.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Someone will EUGENIA LAST try your patience. When it comes to work, put your head down and take care of your responsibilities to avoid any recourse or complaints. Strive for perfection and excellence and you will overcome setbacks and loss. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Share your thoughts and feelings and find out where you stand. Someone will contribute to your ideas and offer to help you. Collaboration with the right people will bring prolific results. Let your imagination flow. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Do what you can for others, but make sure you get something in return. Don’t let anyone take advantage of your generosity and keen perception of situations. If you want to contribute or partner with someone, set up guidelines and boundaries. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Look outside your usual stomping grounds. Go to unfamiliar destinations and you will expand your mind. Checking out different philosophies, lifestyles and cultural backgrounds will lead to personal changes. Discuss your thoughts and plans with someone you love. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Make plans to boost your education. Be resourceful and engage in feats that are challenging and require intelligence, perception and physical agility. Show everyone what you are capable of accomplishing and new opportunities will be your reward. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Be leery of people making outlandish promises or unpredictable moves. The information you are given will not be complete. Question every aspect of any contract, negotiation, settlement or money matter before

THE SUMTER ITEM

WEATHER

AccuWeather® ﬁve-day forecast for Sumter TODAY

TONIGHT

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Mostly cloudy, a shower; warm

Considerable cloudiness

Partial sunshine

Intervals of clouds and sun

Sun and some clouds

Cooler with plenty of sunshine

76°

55°

80° / 55°

82° / 56°

81° / 41°

65° / 40°

Chance of rain: 55%

Chance of rain: 15%

Chance of rain: 20%

Chance of rain: 0%

SE 6-12 mph

ESE 3-6 mph

E 4-8 mph

ESE 4-8 mph

WSW 8-16 mph

WNW 7-14 mph

TODAY’S SOUTH CAROLINA WEATHER

Gaﬀney 65/51 Spartanburg 66/53

Greenville 67/53

Columbia 75/55

Temperatures shown on map are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

Sumter 76/55

IN THE MOUNTAINS Aiken 72/55

ON THE COAST

Charleston 76/58

Today: Mainly cloudy; a shower in spots in southern parts. High 70 to 76. Thursday: Warm with some sun; a passing shower in central parts. High 71 to 79.

LOCAL ALMANAC

LAKE LEVELS

SUMTER THROUGH 4 P.M. YESTERDAY

Today Hi/Lo/W 72/59/c 70/48/s 82/55/s 65/52/pc 80/56/s 64/46/pc 74/56/pc 58/48/pc 74/60/r 63/50/pc 78/49/s 56/44/c 66/52/pc

SUN AND MOON 7 a.m. yest. 356.91 74.86 74.88 98.56

24-hr chg none +0.01 none +0.17

RIVER STAGES River Black River Congaree River Lynches River Saluda River Up. Santee River Wateree River

trace 1.04" 2.56" 5.58" 6.38" 6.50"

NATIONAL CITIES City Atlanta Chicago Dallas Detroit Houston Los Angeles New Orleans New York Orlando Philadelphia Phoenix San Francisco Wash., DC

Full pool 360 76.8 75.5 100

Lake Murray Marion Moultrie Wateree

68° 47° 60° 36° 81° in 1991 18° in 1959

Precipitation 24 hrs ending 4 p.m. yest. Month to date Normal month to date Year to date Last year to date Normal year to date

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 76/58/pc 54/42/r 86/53/s 65/48/pc 80/59/s 63/45/s 77/59/pc 68/52/pc 79/64/r 72/55/pc 65/42/s 55/41/pc 74/56/pc

Myrtle Beach 71/57

Manning 75/57

Today: Mostly cloudy and mild with a shower. Winds east 3-6 mph. Thursday: Very warm with clouds and sun. Winds light and variable.

Temperature High Low Normal high Normal low Record high Record low

Florence 77/55

Bishopville 74/56

Flood 7 a.m. stage yest. 12 8.56 19 3.70 14 7.16 14 2.63 80 76.23 24 5.14

24-hr chg +0.08 +0.30 +0.19 +0.75 -0.20 +0.20

Sunrise 6:59 a.m. Moonrise 4:01 a.m.

Sunset Moonset

6:12 p.m. 2:37 p.m.

New

First

Full

Last

Feb. 26

Mar. 5

Mar. 12

Mar. 20

TIDES AT MYRTLE BEACH

Today Thu.

High 5:52 a.m. 5:58 p.m. 6:42 a.m. 6:47 p.m.

Ht. 2.8 2.5 2.9 2.6

Low 12:43 p.m. --12:46 a.m. 1:31 p.m.

Ht. 0.4 --0.2 0.2

REGIONAL CITIES City Asheville Athens Augusta Beaufort Cape Hatteras Charleston Charlotte Clemson Columbia Darlington Elizabeth City Elizabethtown Fayetteville

Today Hi/Lo/W 62/46/c 72/54/sh 76/56/sh 76/59/c 66/57/c 76/58/c 71/52/c 67/57/c 75/55/c 75/54/c 68/51/c 76/55/c 78/55/c

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 69/50/c 77/53/pc 82/53/pc 79/58/pc 68/60/pc 78/58/pc 78/53/pc 75/57/pc 81/54/pc 77/53/pc 74/52/pc 78/56/pc 81/56/pc

City Florence Gainesville Gastonia Goldsboro Goose Creek Greensboro Greenville Hickory Hilton Head Jacksonville, FL La Grange Macon Marietta

Today Hi/Lo/W 77/55/c 73/60/r 68/53/c 78/54/c 76/58/c 65/51/sh 67/53/c 62/51/c 74/59/sh 75/61/sh 73/59/c 74/57/sh 70/55/c

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 78/55/pc 80/60/pc 76/54/pc 79/54/pc 78/57/pc 75/52/pc 75/54/pc 72/52/pc 77/58/pc 77/59/r 75/55/pc 78/54/pc 74/54/pc

Today City Hi/Lo/W Marion 61/49/c Mt. Pleasant 76/59/c Myrtle Beach 71/57/c Orangeburg 73/57/c Port Royal 72/59/c Raleigh 72/53/c Rock Hill 68/52/c Rockingham 73/52/c Savannah 75/60/sh Spartanburg 66/53/c Summerville 75/58/c Wilmington 75/54/pc Winston-Salem 63/50/sh

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 71/50/c 78/58/pc 72/57/pc 78/56/pc 76/59/pc 79/53/pc 77/52/pc 76/51/pc 78/58/pc 72/55/pc 78/57/pc 77/56/s 74/52/pc

Weather(W): s–sunny, pc–partly cloudy, c–cloudy, sh–showers, t–thunderstorms, r–rain, sf–snow ﬂurries, sn–snow, i–ice SUMTER COUNTY DEVELOPMENT BOARD Thursday, 7:30 a.m., Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce boardroom, 32 E. Calhoun St.

SUMTER CITY-COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Today, Feb. 22, 3 p.m., Sumter Opera House, 21 N. Main St., fourth floor, Council Chambers

The last word in astrology

DAILY PLANNER

Brown’s

“Where Quality Matters”

FURNITURE & BEDDING

Fall In Love with our New Styles!

you concede. Invest in yourself, not someone else. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You’ll find it difficult to keep the peace when dealing with partners or people you live with. A reserved approach will give you a chance to gather facts and information that will help you negotiate your position and your plans.

31 West Wesmark Blvd • Sumter, SC

774-2100

SUMTER ANIMAL CONTROL PET OF THE WEEK

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You’ll have plenty to think about. Don’t let anyone persuade you to take part in something that isn’t going to benefit you personally. An emotional plea will lead to changes that are not in your best interest. Avoid travel and dealing with institutions. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Emotional matters will surface if you neglect someone who needs your attention. Dealing with children, friends, relatives or your lover should be handled carefully. Don’t take physical or financial risks. Don’t let someone from your past disrupt your life. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Educational pursuits and dealing with professors, police or anyone in a position of authority will cause you stress and uncertainty. Use your ability to learn from others in order to come up with a plan that works for you. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Ask questions and make decisions. A chance to expand an interest or idea you have will bring you greater returns than you anticipate. Don’t waffle or show laziness when taking actions to turn your dream into a reality. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Size up your situation and set parameters. Don’t overdo it in order to be noticed or feel obligated to take on responsibilities that don’t belong to you. A slow and steady pace will get you where you want to go.

Meet Roxie, a medium-sized young adult mix breed. She is good with other dogs when properly introduced. Roxie is a smart, sweet dog who deserves a forever home. Please consider giving her a chance to live in a home with a family that will value her. Roxie is in kennel 16 at Sumter Animal Control, 1240 Winkles Road, (803) 436-2066. Thank you for considering a homeless animal. You can view more lost / found / adoptable pets on Facebook at Sumter Animal Control.

SECTION

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017 Call: (803) 774-1241 | E-mail: sports@theitem.com

PREP BASKETBALL

Tournament shortfall

ECHS falls to BethuneBowman in 1A playoffs BY BRADLEY HARRIS Special To The T&D

when asked what she talked about during the timeout. “I told them we knew they were going to make a run. We just had to keep our composure and respond.” CN led 27-17 at halftime and pushed the lead to 31-19 early in the third quarter. Cardinal Newman star player Tyra Beadle went down with a knee injury early in the quarter as well and that

ROWESVILLE – The Bethune-Bowman High School boys basketball team advanced to the final four of 1A basketball on Tuesday. B-B won a tough third-round playoff game against East Clarendon, 57-53 in order to advance to the lower state championship game. Three Bethune-Bowman players reached double figures in the scoring column. Braxton Wedgeworth led the way with 19 points. Rodrick Pam scored 13 points, and Ikaun Smith put up 10 points. Bethune-Bowman head coach Artis Coulter viewed the win differently than most would have. “It’s just begun for us. We are past the third round, now we are heading where it counts. That’s the lower state championship,” Coulter said. “We (Bethune-Bowman) haven’t been there in a while, but this year these guys are playing like they have something to prove. I know they have something to prove because in our eyes we are No. 1, and we are going to keep striving and show everyone that we are No. 1.” The Mohawks were given all they could handle by East Clarendon. The first quarter started off with a frantic pace, which would be the trend for the entire game. The Mohawks started off the quarter on top after Rodrick Pam score on a layup. Both teams would go on a scoring drought before East Clarendon finally tied the game at two with 6:30 left in the quarter. East Clarendon would take the lead, as it was finding success with the pick and roll offense. The Mohawks would tie the game at 11 with 46 seconds left in the quarter. However, East Clarendon would score the last bucket of the quarter. The second quarter was played at a very fast pace. Wedgeworth quickly tied the game at 13 in the opening seconds of the quarter. At the half, the Mohawks had a 28-23 lead. At the end of the third, Bethune-Bowman led 43-37. East Clarendon cut the lead

SEE SHORTFALL, PAGE B4

SEE ECHS, PAGE B4

CHRIS MOORE / SPECIAL TO THE SUMTER ITEM

Wilson Hall’s Mary Daniel Stokes (21) tries to block the shot of Cardinal Newman’s Mya Parter (3) as Liza Segars, right, looks on during the Lady Barons’ 50-37 loss on Tuesday in the SCISA 3A state tournament quarterfinals at Sumter County Civic Center.

Lady Barons climb back, but can’t overcome CN in 3A quarterfinals BY DENNIS BRUNSON dennis@theitem.com The Wilson Hall girls basketball team had done the hard work, climbing back from a 12-point deficit to within one point early in the fourth quarter of its SCISA 3A state tournament quarterfinal game against Cardinal Newman. In fact, the Lady Barons had two shots to grab the lead, including one that rolled in and out.

After the second miss, the Lady Cardinals grabbed the rebound and CN head coach Molly Rainwater called a timeout. Coming out of the huddle, Cardinal Newman hit its next four shots in the next 1 minute, 30 seconds and went on to a 50-37 victory at Sumter County Civic Center. “We did a great job of coming from 12 down,” said WH head coach Glen Rector, whose team finished the sea-

son with a 19-7 record. “We got back into it and then we missed a couple of switches that led to a couple of easy baskets.” The Lady Cardinals, who improved to 18-6, will take on First Baptist in a semifinal game on Friday at 3:30 p.m. at the civic center. First Baptist defeated Pinewood Prep 47-38 on Tuesday. “I just made a point to the girls about keeping their composure,” Rainwater said

SOUTH CAROLINA BASKETBALL

CLEMSON BASKETBALL

Slide continues as Allen, Florida top USC 81-66

Allen’s late 3-pointer lifts Hokies past Tigers

BY MARK LONG The Associated Press GAINESVILLE, Fla. — KeVaughn Allen scored 26 points, a considerably better performance than his last game against South Carolina, and No. 13 Florida beat the Gamecocks 81-66 on Tuesday night. Devin Robinson added 14 points for Florida, which won its ninth consecutive game and locked up one of the top four seeds in the upcoming Southeastern Conference Tournament. Chris Chiozza and Kasey Hill chipped in 12 and 10 points, respectively.

South Carolina (20-8, 10-5 SEC) dropped its third in a row and fourth in five games. The Gators (23-5, 13-2) looked much more comfortable in their second game without center John Egbunu, who is out for the season with a torn ligament in his left knee. Sophomore Kevarrius Hayes finished with seven points, six rebounds and three steals. Getting Allen going helped even more. The shooting guard made 5 of 7 shots, including 3 of 5 from 3-point range. He also made 13 of 14 from the free throw line and

SEE USC, PAGE B4

BY JIMMY ROBERTSON The Associated Press

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

South Carolina forward Sedee Keita (24) blocks the shot of Florida forward Justin Leon (23) during the Gamecocks’ 81-66 loss on Tuesday in Gainesville, Fla.

BLACKSBURG, Va. — Seth Allen’s 3-pointer with 3.8 seconds left to play carried Virginia Tech to a 71-70 victory over Clemson on Tuesday night. Zach LeDay scored 19 points for the Hokies (19-8, 8-7 Atlantic Coast Conference), who also beat the Tigers by a point on Jan. 22. Virginia Tech won for the third time in four games and moved to 14-1 at home this season. The loss was the latest in series of excruciating defeats for the Tigers (14-13, 4-11), who dropped their fifth game in their past six outings. Clemson is now 3-10 in games de-

cided by six points or less. Clemson’s Marcquise ALLEN Reed hit a baseline jumper with 21.6 seconds remaining to give the Tigers a 70-68 lead. Out of a timeout, Allen missed a layup with 10 seconds left, and LeDay got the rebound, but the ball was knocked out of his hands and went out of bounds off Clemson. Virginia Tech then worked the ball to Allen, who buried a 3-pointer from the top of the key. Allen finished with eight points. Reed led the Tigers

SEE TIGERS, PAGE B4

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017

SCOREBOARD TV, RADIO TODAY

9 a.m. – NASCAR Racing: Monster Energy Series Daytona 500 Media Day from Daytona Beach, Fla. (FOX SPORTS 1). 11:50 a.m. – International Soccer: UEFA Europa League Match – Manchester United vs. St. Etienne (FOX SPORTS 1). 11:50 a.m. – International Soccer: UEFA Europa League Match – PAOK vs. Schalke 04 (FOX SPORTS 2). 12:30 p.m. – Delray Beach Open and Rio Open Early-Round Matches (TENNIS). 2:30 p.m. – International Soccer: UEFA Champions League Match Round-of-16 First Leg Match – Leicester City vs. Sevilla (FOX SPORTS 1). 2:30 p.m. – International Soccer: UEFA Champions League Match Round-of-16 First Leg Match – Juventus vs. Porto (FOX SPORTS 1). 6 p.m. – Delray Beach Open and Rio Open Early-Round Matches (TENNIS). 6:05 p.m. – Talk Show: Sports Talk (WDXY-FM 105.9, WDXY-AM 1240). 6:30 p.m. – College Basketball: Vanderbilt at Tennessee (SEC NETWORK). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: DePaul at Georgetown (CBS SPORTS NETWORK). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: Duke at Syracuse (ESPN). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: Texas Christian at Kansas (ESPN2). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: Central Florida at Temple (ESPNU). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: Xavier at Seton Hall (FOX SPORTS 1). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: Pittsburgh at Wake Forest (FOX SPORTSOUTH). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: St. Louis at Virginia Commonwealth (TIME WARNER 1250). 8 p.m. – Women’s College Basketball: Texas Tech at Oklahoma State (FOX SPORTS SOUTHEAST). 8 p.m. – NHL Hockey: Washington at Philadelphia (NBC SPORTS NETWORK). 8 p.m. – International Soccer: CONCACAF Champions League Match – Vancouver vs. New York (UNIVISION). 8:30 p.m. – PGA Golf: Honda Classic Pro-Am from Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (GOLF). 8:30 p.m. – College Basketball: Texas A&M at Arkansas (SEC NETWORK). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Connecticut at Houston (CBS SPORTS NETWORK). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Louisville at North Carolina (ESPN). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Oregon at California (ESPN2). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Oklahoma State at Kansas State (ESPNU). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Butler at Villanova (FOX SPORTS 1). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Providence at Creighton (FOX SPORTSOUTH). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Lamar at Northwestern State (TIME WARNER 1250). 10 p.m. – International Soccer: CONCACAF Champions League Match – Unam vs. Victoriaville (UNIVISION). 11 p.m. – College Basketball: Fresno State at San Diego State (CBS SPORTS NETWORK). 11 p.m. – College Basketball: Oregon State at Stanford (ESPNU). 1 a.m. – LPGA Golf: Honda LPGA Thailand First Round from Chonburi, Thailand (GOLF).

COLLEGE BASEBALL By The Associated Press COLLEGIATE BASEBALL POLL

TUCSON, Ariz. — The Collegiate Baseball poll with records through Feb. 19. Voting is done by coaches, sports writers and sports information directors: Record Pts Prv 1. Texas Christian 3-0 496 1 2. Louisiana St. 3-0 494 2 3. Florida 3-0 491 3 4. South Carolina 2-1 488 4 5. Oregon St. 3-0 485 5 6. Vanderbilt 2-1 482 6 7. Arizona 3-0 480 7 8. Miami, Fla. 2-1 478 8 9. Florida St. 2-1 475 9 10. Cal. St. Fullerton 2-1 472 10 11. Louisville 3-0 470 11 12. North Carolina 3-0 468 15 13. Virginia 3-0 465 16 14. Mississippi 3-0 463 22 15. Texas A&M 3-0 460 20 16. Louisiana-Lafayette 1-1 457 14 17. Washington 2-1 456 21 18. Sam Houston St. 2-1 454 23 19. Arizona St. 3-0 451 25 20. Texas Tech. 3-1 449 29 21. Long Beach St. 1-2 445 17 22. Clemson 1-2 443 12 23. Dallas Baptist 2-1 440 26 24. Rice 2-2 438 27 25. Texas 2-2 437 30 26. U.C. Santa Barbara 1-2 432 18 27. Coastal Carolina 1-2 429 19 28. Stanford 1-2 426 24 29. Oklahoma St. 1-1 424 28 30. N.C. State 2-1 420 NR

BASEBALL AMERICA TOP 25

DURHAM, N.C. — The top 25 teams in the Baseball America poll through Feb. 19 (selected by the staff of Baseball America): Record Prv 1. Texas Christian 3-0 1 2. Florida State 2-1 2 3. Florida 3-0 3 4. Louisiana State 3-0 4 5. South Carolina 2-1 5 6. Louisville 3-0 7 7. Cal State Fullerton 2-1 8 8. Oregon State 3-0 9 9. Vanderbilt 2-1 11 10. Washington 2-1 12 11. East Carolina 0-3 6 12. North Carolina State 2-1 14 13. Virginia 3-0 16 14. North Carolina 3-0 17 15. Clemson 1-2 10 16. Louisiana-Lafayette 1-1 13 17. Georgia Tech 3-0 21 18. Coastal Carolina 1-2 15 19. Arizona 3-0 22 20. Oklahoma State 1-1 18 21. Texas Tech 3-1 25 22. Mississippi 3-0 NR 23. Stanford 1-2 23 24. UC Santa Barbara 1-2 19 25. Wright State 2-1 NR

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

2. Maryland 3. Mississippi St. 4. Baylor 5. Notre Dame 6. Texas 7. South Carolina 8. Florida St. 8. Stanford 10. Oregon St. 11. Washington 12. Ohio St. 13. Duke 14. Louisville 15. UCLA 16. Oklahoma 17. Miami 18. NC State 19. DePaul 20. Syracuse 21. Drake 22. Kentucky 23. Temple 24. Missouri 25. Michigan

The top 25 teams in The Associated Press’ college basketball poll, with first-place votes in parentheses, records through Feb. 19, total points based on 25 points for a first-place vote through one point for a 25th-place vote and last week’s ranking: Record Pts Prv 1. Gonzaga (59) 28-0 1618 1 2. Villanova (5) 26-2 1556 2 3. Kansas (1) 24-3 1503 3 4. Arizona 25-3 1356 5 5. UCLA 24-3 1316 6 6. Oregon 24-4 1297 7 7. Louisville 22-5 1267 8 8. North Carolina 23-5 1138 10 9. Baylor 22-5 1108 4 10. Duke 22-5 1014 12 11. Kentucky 22-5 943 13 12. West Virginia 21-6 908 9 13. Florida 22-5 822 15 14. Purdue 22-5 807 16 15. Cincinnati 24-3 733 18 16. Wisconsin 22-5 713 11 17. SMU 24-4 554 19 18. Virginia 18-8 427 14 19. Florida State 21-6 419 17 20. Saint Mary’s 24-3 375 22 21. Notre Dame 21-7 322 25 22. Butler 21-6 295 24 23. Creighton 22-5 178 20 24. Maryland 22-5 159 23 25. Wichita State 25-4 153 — Others receiving votes: VCU 39, Northwestern 25, Iowa State 22, South Carolina 12, Southern Cal 10, Dayton 9, Middle Tennessee 8, Oklahoma State 7, Minnesota 5, Miami 2, Monmouth (N.J.) 2, Michigan 1, Vermont 1, Virginia Tech 1.

WOMEN’S TOP 25

The top 25 teams in The Associated Press’ women’s college basketball poll, with firstplace votes in parentheses, records through Feb. 19, total points based on 25 points for a first-place vote through one point for a 25thplace vote and previous ranking: Record Pts Prv 1. UConn (33) 26-0 825 1

788 755 731 682 608 602 583 583 528 494 469 467 414 350 340 274 232 208 162 123 110 99 62 53

2 3 4 7 8 6 4 10 11 9 12 13 14 18 19 16 15 17 21 25 20

PRO BASEBALL

Others receiving votes: Texas A&M 45, Kansas St 45, Creighton 32, South Florida 27, Tennessee 9, Belmont 7, Green Bay 4, West Virginia 4, Arizona St. 3, Tulane 2, Colorado St. 2, Wright St. 1, Marquette 1, LSU 1.

NBA STANDINGS By The Associated Press THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

EASTERN CONFERENCE ATLANTIC DIVISION Boston Toronto New York Philadelphia Brooklyn SOUTHEAST DIVISION Washington Atlanta Miami Charlotte Orlando CENTRAL DIVISION Cleveland Indiana Chicago Detroit Milwaukee

W 37 33 23 21 9

L 20 24 34 35 47

Pct .649 .579 .404 .375 .161

GB — 4 14 15½ 27½

W 34 32 25 24 21

L 21 24 32 32 37

Pct .618 .571 .439 .429 .362

GB — 2½ 10 10½ 14½

W 39 29 28 27 25

L 16 28 29 30 30

Pct .709 .509 .491 .474 .455

GB — 11 12 13 14

WESTERN CONFERENCE SOUTHWEST DIVISION San Antonio Houston Memphis New Orleans Dallas NORTHWEST DIVISION Utah Oklahoma City Denver Portland Minnesota PACIFIC DIVISION Golden State L.A. Clippers Sacramento L.A. Lakers Phoenix

W 43 40 34 23 22

L 13 18 24 34 34

Pct .768 .690 .586 .404 .393

GB — 4 10 20½ 21

W 35 32 25 23 22

L 22 25 31 33 35

Pct .614 .561 .446 .411 .386

GB — 3 9½ 11½ 13

W 47 35 24 19 18

L 9 21 33 39 39

Pct .839 .625 .421 .328 .316

GB — 12 23½ 29 29½

TODAY’S GAMES

No games scheduled

THURSDAY’S GAMES

Portland at Orlando, 7 p.m. Charlotte at Detroit, 7:30 p.m. Houston at New Orleans, 8 p.m. New York at Cleveland, 8 p.m. Denver at Sacramento, 10:30 p.m. L.A. Clippers at Golden State, 10:30 p.m.

FRIDAY’S GAMES

Memphis at Indiana, 7 p.m. Washington at Philadelphia, 7 p.m. Boston at Toronto, 8 p.m. Dallas at Minnesota, 8 p.m. L.A. Lakers at Oklahoma City, 8 p.m. Miami at Atlanta, 8 p.m. Phoenix at Chicago, 8 p.m. Utah at Milwaukee, 8 p.m. Brooklyn at Denver, 9 p.m. San Antonio at L.A. Clippers, 10:30 p.m.

SATURDAY’S GAMES

Charlotte at Sacramento, 5 p.m. Atlanta at Orlando, 7 p.m. Philadelphia at New York, 7:30 p.m. Indiana at Miami, 8 p.m. Chicago at Cleveland, 8:30 p.m. New Orleans at Dallas, 8:30 p.m. Minnesota at Houston, 9 p.m. Brooklyn at Golden State, 10:30 p.m.

SUNDAY’S GAMES

Phoenix at Milwaukee, 3:30 p.m. San Antonio at L.A. Lakers, 3:30 p.m. Memphis at Denver, 5 p.m. Utah at Washington, 5 p.m. Boston at Detroit, 6 p.m. Portland at Toronto, 6 p.m. New Orleans at Oklahoma City, 7 p.m. Charlotte at L.A. Clippers, 9:30 p.m.

NHL STANDINGS By The Associated Press

EASTERN CONFERENCE

With his career in baseball approaching four decades long, Brian Snitker, center, figured there wasn’t much chance of actually getting the call to the big leagues. However, here he is -- finally, at the age of 61 -- getting ready for his first full season as manager of the Atlanta Braves.

At 61, Snitker savoring shot as Braves manager BY PAUL NEWBERRY The Associated Press KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Let’s face it, Brian Snitker had pretty much given up on his dream. He always wanted to be a big league manager. But with his career in baseball approaching four decades, he figured there wasn’t much chance of actually getting the call. Yet here he is, at 61, getting ready for his first full season as skipper of the Atlanta Braves. “I’ve always been a late bloomer,” Snitker cracked this week, sitting in the dugout after his team finished a spring training workout. He took over the Braves on an interim basis last May, becoming the fourth-oldest rookie manager in baseball history. Snitker was surpassed only by 66-yearold Tom Sheehan, who managed the San Francisco Giants for part of the 1960 season; 64-yearold Bobby Mattick, who guided the Toronto Blue Jays in 1980 and ‘81; and 62-year-old Red Corriden, who finished the 1950 season for the Chicago White Sox. “I don’t feel my age,” Snitker said. “I’m going to just enjoy it for what

it is and have a good time with it.” He certainly put in the time. Snitker has been with the Braves organization since 1977, spending four seasons as a minor league catcher and first baseman before moving into coaching. He became a manager for the first time in the Class A South Atlantic League at age 26, and his star seemed on the rise when he joined the big league club as a bullpen coach in 1985. It didn’t last. He returned to the minors the following season, settling into a largely overlooked career as a jack-of-all trades in the organization. He managed at every level of the minors, from the rookie leagues to Triple-A, and got two more stints as a coach for the big league team. After seven years as Atlanta’s third-base coach, first serving under Bobby Cox and then for his successor, Fredi Gonzalez, Snitker was sent back to the minors following the 2013 season to manage Triple-A Gwinnett. He dutifully accepted the job but could see the writing on the wall. His hopes of managing the Braves — or any other major league team, for that matter — were likely finished.

But last May, with the Braves in the midst of a major rebuilding job and predictably off to a miserable start, Gonzalez was fired. Snitker was handed what looked like another thankless job: Just get through the season the best he could, before the Braves moved on to their next full-time manager. A funny thing happened, though. The Braves, who won just 16 of their first 58 games, suddenly became a respectable team. Yes, they still finished last in the NL East, but team executives took notice of a 52-51 record after June 7 — and especially a group that played hard until the end, winning 12 of its last 14 games when there wasn’t anything on the line. “Brian truly earned this opportunity,” general manager John Coppolella said. “Whether it’s the 40 years of service to the Braves, whether it’s the way the team performed, but probably more than anything it’s the feeling our players have for him. These guys played differently under him. They came to me and (president of baseball operations) John Hart personally and said, “Look, this is the best manager we’ve ever had.’”

ATLANTIC DIVISION GP W Montreal 59 31 Ottawa 57 31 Florida 58 28 Boston 59 30 Toronto 58 27 Buffalo 60 26 Tampa Bay 58 26 Detroit 59 24 METROPOLITAN DIVISION GP W Washington 58 39 Pittsburgh 58 36 Columbus 58 37 N.Y. Rangers 58 38 N.Y. Islanders 58 27 Philadelphia 59 28 New Jersey 59 25 Carolina 55 24

L 20 20 20 23 20 24 24 25

OT 8 6 10 6 11 10 8 10

Pts 70 68 66 66 65 62 60 58

GF 166 156 149 159 181 147 160 149

GA 153 152 162 156 173 168 166 175

L OT Pts 12 7 85 14 8 80 16 5 79 19 1 77 21 10 64 24 7 63 24 10 60 23 8 56

GF 195 204 187 196 174 154 138 141

GA 126 165 143 152 174 179 170 162

GF 195 172 170 164 180 165 113

GA 133 151 173 159 194 193 190

WESTERN CONFERENCE CENTRAL DIVISION

By The Associated Press

MEN’S TOP 25

26-1 27-1 25-2 25-3 21-5 22-4 24-4 24-4 25-3 25-4 23-5 24-4 23-6 20-7 21-6 19-7 20-7 22-6 18-9 22-4 19-8 21-5 19-9 21-7

THE SUMTER ITEM

Minnesota Chicago St. Louis Nashville Winnipeg Dallas Colorado PACIFIC DIVISION

GP 58 59 60 58 62 60 57

W 39 36 31 28 28 23 16

L OT Pts 13 6 84 18 5 77 24 5 67 22 8 64 29 5 61 27 10 56 38 3 35

GP W L OT Pts GF GA San Jose 60 35 18 7 77 166 144 Edmonton 59 32 19 8 72 171 152 Anaheim 61 31 20 10 72 156 154 Calgary 59 29 26 4 62 153 167 Los Angeles 58 28 26 4 60 143 145 Vancouver 60 26 28 6 58 142 172 Arizona 58 21 30 7 49 140 183 NOTE: Two points for a win, one point for OT loss.

MONDAY’S GAMES Florida 2, St. Louis 1 Arizona 3, Anaheim 2

TUESDAY’S GAMES

Ottawa at New Jersey, 7 p.m. Pittsburgh at Carolina, 7 p.m. Montreal at N.Y. Rangers, 7 p.m. Edmonton at Tampa Bay, 7:30 p.m. Winnipeg at Toronto, 7:30 p.m. N.Y. Islanders at Detroit, 7:30 p.m. Calgary at Nashville, 8 p.m. Chicago at Minnesota, 8 p.m. Los Angeles at Colorado, 9 p.m.

TODAY’S GAMES

Edmonton at Florida, 7:30 p.m. Washington at Philadelphia, 8 p.m. Boston at Anaheim, 10:30 p.m.

THURSDAY’S GAMES

N.Y. Islanders at Montreal, 7:30 p.m. N.Y. Rangers at Toronto, 7:30 p.m. Calgary at Tampa Bay, 7:30 p.m. Colorado at Nashville, 8 p.m. Arizona at Chicago, 8:30 p.m. Boston at Los Angeles, 10:30 p.m.

FRIDAY’S GAMES

Edmonton at Washington, 7 p.m. Calgary at Florida, 7:30 p.m. Ottawa at Carolina, 7:30 p.m. Arizona at Dallas, 8:30 p.m.

Super subs are now key players on pitching-dominated rosters BY PAUL NEWBERRY The Associated Press KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Jace Peterson starts out the day shagging fly balls in the outfield. Then, he changes gloves and heads to the infield to take some grounders. Don’t try to label this guy with a position. He can play just about all of them. “Man, it’s fun,” Peterson said. “You get to move around the diamond. You get to work everywhere.” Peterson is part of an ever-growing trend on big league rosters: the super sub. The Atlanta Braves have two of them, in fact. Peterson can play second base, shortstop, third base and all three outfield positions. Chase d’Arnaud does him one better, having added first base to his repertoire this spring. “Those guys are invaluable,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. All over baseball, teams are placing huge importance on those who can play everywhere — especially in an

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

With pitching-dominated rosters more prevalent across MLB, super subs like Atlanta infielder Jace Peterson, center, are becoming more and more important. era when teams are carrying at least 12 pitchers on their 25-man rosters, leaving only four or five players on the bench. It matters even more in the National League, where pitchers must hit and there are all sorts of lineup issues to deal with over the course of a game. Pinch hitters. Double switches. Defensive changes. One of the top priorities for the defending NL East champion Washington Nationals was to re-sign 33-yearold Stephen Drew, who didn’t exactly put up huge numbers last sea-

son (.266 with eight homers and 21 RBI) but made starts at second, short, third and designated hitter. Cleveland made it all the way to the World Series with a major contribution from 24-yearold Jose Ramirez, who in his first full big league season played 117 games at third base but also got time in the outfield (84 games), second base (nine) and even shortstop (five). He hit .313 with 11 homers and 76 RBI while shifting around to all nine spots in the batting order.

SPORTS

THE SUMTER ITEM

SPORTS ITEMS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017

AUTO RACING

Gamecocks earn 5-4 win over Charlotte COLUMBIA â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Alex Destino and Jacob Olson each homered and fourth-ranked South Carolina scored five runs in the first five innings on the way to a 5-4 victory over Charlotte on Tuesday night at BOWERS Founders Park. The Gamecocks improved to 3-1 with Charlotte dropping to 2-2 on the season. Senior right-hander and former University of South Carolina Sumter standout Colie Bowers (1-0) earned the win in relief. He threw two scoreless innings with no walks and one strikeout. Junior right-hander Tyler Johnson closed out the contest in 1 2/3 innings and struck out a pair to earn his first save of the season. Despite not recording a hit, South Carolina took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first after TJ Hopkins stole third base and made it home on a wild pitch. Charlotte answered in the top of the second when T.J. Nichting led off with a single to right field, advanced on a throwing error and went on to score to tie the game at 1-1. The Gamecocks took a 2-1 lead in the bottom of the second when Jacob Olson launched his first home run for the Garnet and Black. The 49ers went ahead 3-2 after Brett Netzer led off in the top of the third with a double to right center and Nichting knocked him in with a double to left field followed by a groundout by Drew Ober to score Jackson Mims. The Gamecocks regained the lead in the fifth inning with three runs to go ahead 5-3. Justin Row tied the game at 3-3 for Carolina in the bottom of the fifth with a double to left field to score Carlos Cortes, who got on base with a double to center. Alex Destino followed with a 2-run homer to right field to give the Gamecocks a 2-run advantage. Charlotte put a run on the board with three singles by Zack Smith, Reece Hampton and Netzer in the top of the ninth, but with runners on the corners and one out, Johnson reared back and struck out Jackson Mims and coaxed a fielderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice off the bat of T.J. Nichting to preserve the Carolina victory.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

An eighth NASCAR title might make Jimmie Johnson, left, the greatest driver in the history of the sport. The 2017 season begins on Sunday with the Daytona 500.

Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next title could stake him as NASCARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest driver BY DAN GELSTON The Associated Press DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Jimmie Johnson might have had an easier time had his 6-year-old daughter asked for help with a school art project. Genevieve Johnson instead left dad briefly bewildered with a messier question: What does famous mean? â&#x20AC;&#x153;At school, the kids are asking her, saying, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Your dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? Johnson said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;How do you answer that question?â&#x20AC;? Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s try. Does your dad dress in a Loweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fire suit, slide into the No. 48 Chevrolet and race on national television every weekend? Does your dad have more than 2.3 million Twitter followers, is he besieged by autograph seekers and asked to voice cartoons on the Disney Channel? Yes, Genevieve, your father is famous. But the more contempla-

tive question is this: Is Johnson the greatest to ever drive a stock car? That answer is up for debate, though arguments for other contenders thin as Johnson continues to add to his championship collection. Seven of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;em, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve lost count. An eighth would push Johnson past Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty for most ever, leaving him alone as NASCARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest. Outside his motorhome, Johnson scratched his beard, tinged with a touch of grey, as he considered what an eighth title would mean. Johnson had retreated to Aspen, Colorado, over the winter, where the snow and ski-filled days made him want to grow his beard to roughly ZZ Top length. The King has his feathered cowboy hat. Maybe a wavy beard could become Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinguishable feature. What seemed cool in Aspen made him hot under the helmet at Daytona.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was really uncomfortable,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It just hits you the whole time.â&#x20AC;? Beard aficionado Dale Earnhardt Jr., who shaved his own for a wedding, openly admired his teammateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s facial hair. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a bad-ass beard,â&#x20AC;? Junior said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d known he was going to come so strong, I would have worked on mine a little more. I certainly do envy what Jimmieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got going on.â&#x20AC;? Most also drivers envy his record run at NASCAR history. Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shot at history hit him in 2010 when he won his fifth straight Cup title and talk about chasing eight intensified. He won his sixth in 2013, and his surprising seventh last year now makes an eighth championship seem more inevitable than a longshot. With 80 career wins and a pair of Daytona 500 victories, the 41-year-old Johnson wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let the record define him. â&#x20AC;&#x153;No,â&#x20AC;? he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m

going to try (and win it), though.â&#x20AC;? Long before he fires up the Chevy, Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s championship pursuit begins near dawn with a run. Johnson long ago traded his race helmet for a bicycle helmet during off hours at the track and put a twist on his Sunday finish line by running the occasional marathon before a race. At Daytona, he biked 42 miles on Sunday morning hours before he pulled double duty and raced in the Clash at Daytona and qualified for the 500. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inspired and coached members of the NASCAR family â&#x20AC;&#x201D; crew chiefs, fellow drivers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and helped whip them into shape before he whipped them on the track. Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s days of scarfing hushpuppies and sipping sweet tea out by a roadside barbecue stand are long behind him. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still an adrenaline junkie in the offseason, though his fastest turns in the winter now come navigating the snowcapped slopes in Colorado.

AUTHORITIES PROBE DEATH OF CLEMSON ASSOCIATE AD EASLEY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Authorities are investigating the death of an associate athletics director at Clemson University. Local media outlets report the body of 60-year-old Bert Henderson was found Tuesday morning near his Easley home. Henderson was reported missing Monday afternoon after he failed to report to work. His wife died last year. The school says Henderson started working at Clemson in 1978 as a trainer and worked with the 1981 national championship football team. He ultimately began working with Clemsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alumni Center and became executive director of its planned giving efforts. No other details been released. Crews had been using K9s and a helicopter to search for him.

PRO BASKETBALL

Play vs. rest still a real battle for many NBA teams BY TIM REYNOLDS The Associated Press MIAMI â&#x20AC;&#x201D; There are 27 games remaining on Clevelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regular-season schedule, and perhaps only one person over that stretch will be able to stop LeBron James. That would be Cavs coach Tyronn Lue. He has to protect James from himself. Finding the right time to rest players is a conundrum that many NBA coaches have wrestled with for years, even more so now given the

LAKERS FIRE KUPCHAK, JIM BUSS IN FAVOR OF MAGIC LOS ANGELES â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Los Angeles Lakers have fired general manager Mitch Kupchak and put Magic Johnson in charge of basketball operations in a major shake-up of the struggling franchiseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s front office. Lakers owner Jeanie Buss also removed her brother, Jim, from his job as the Lakersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; executive vice president of basketball operations Tuesday. Jeanie Buss then promoted Johnson, the Hall of Fame point guard who returned to the franchise earlier this year in an executive role. Mitch Kupchak has been the 16-time NBA champion franchiseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GM since 2000, when Jerry West left the club.

ing playoffs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; he abhors the idea of taking nights off. Yet there will almost certainly be nights over the next few weeks where Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; uniform stays on its game-night hanger, and fans who plunked down big money to see him play will have to deal with disappointment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Me being a competitor, me loving the game that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve loved every single day, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always have the right assessment of me playing a lot of minutes,â&#x20AC;? James said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why I have coach Lue and the coaching staff and the training staff to be

like â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hey, LeBron ... letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take it easy today.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Me, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ever want to take a day off.â&#x20AC;? Only seven players appeared in all 82 of their teamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; regular-season games in 2015-16. It is becoming more and more of a rarity; in 2005-06 there were 14 players who appeared in 82 games, in 1995-96 the number was 25. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At times, it may be necessary for a guy to rest whether if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the road or itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at home,â&#x20AC;? Toronto guard DeMar DeRozan said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a thin line.â&#x20AC;?

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ways teams have been able to apply technology to the formula and use personalized data to help their medical and athletic training staffs determine when someone simply needs a break. The rest topic seems to become more prevalent as the season winds down, particularly after the All-Star break, with teams in the playoff race trying to ensure top players are healthy for the postseason. As James nears 50,000 minutes for his NBA career â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a milestone that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll likely reach during the upcom-

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SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUMTER ITEM

SHORTFALL

USC FROM PAGE B1

FROM PAGE B1 slowed the Lady Cardinals down immensely. “We started trying to double team No. 3 (Mya Parter) after No. 21 (Beadle) went out,” said Rector. “That worked well for us.” Wilson Hall outscored CN 8-1 over the rest of the third quarter to cut the lead to 3227. Mary Daniel Stokes, who had a double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Lady Barons, scored two quick baskets to start the fourth quarter and make it 32-31 with 6:43 left in the game. “Mary Daniel had a tremendous game for us,” Rector said of Stokes, who connected on 10 of 14 shots. After Cardinal Newman missed two free throws, WH took two shots with grabbing the lead on the line, including one by Liza Segars that rimmed in and out. The Lady Cardinals grabbed the rebound and got the timeout. Coming out of the timeout, CN got the ball to Audrey Meyers, who sank a layup to make it 3431. “With them doubleteaming (Parter), we just put the ball in someone else’s hands,” Rainwater said. After a Wilson Hall turnover, Hailey Laubacker hit a layup to make it 36-31. The Lady Barons got a basket from Stokes to pull within three before Meyers and Laubacker scored again and Taylor Beadle scored to make it 42-33 with 2:42 left in the game. Those were the only points that Laubacker, Meyers and Taylor Beadle scored. Parter led CN with 12 points while Tyra Beadle had 10 and Sierra Bacon had eight. Courtney Clark added seven for Wilson Hall and Becka Noyes had five. Although he would have liked to have been playing on Friday and

chipped in six rebounds and three assists. Allen missed all three shots and scored a single point in a 57-53 loss at South Carolina a month ago. An even bigger issue for the Gators that day was missing all 17 shots from 3-point range, the first time they went scoreless from behind the arc since 1992. Allen made sure it didn’t happen again. He swished his first 3 of the game on Florida’s opening possession. South Carolina trailed by 12 points in the first half, but used a 17-2 run to take the lead. Coach Frank Martin gambled by putting leading scorer Sindarius Thornwell back in the game with two fouls. Thornwell led the Gamecocks with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Duane Notice added 16 points. Florida pulled away in the second half with a barrage of 3s. It started with Allen’s swish from the top of the key. Justin Leon hit two from the corner, and Robinson made two. The Gators finished 9 of 19 from behind the arc. They also hit 22 of 27 from the free throw line.

BIG PICTURE South Carolina: The Gamecocks need to win out and have Florida lose three in a row to get one of the top two seeds in the league’s tournament. If not, they likely will have to face Kentucky or the Gators in the semifinals in Nashville, Tennessee. Florida: The Gators can move considerably closer to clinching the top seed in Nashville with a win at Kentucky on Saturday. Regardless of what happens at Rupp Arena, though, Florida has improved its chances of landing a top-four seed in the NCAA Tournament and opening play in nearby Orlando.

UP NEXT

CHRIS MOORE / SPECIAL TO THE SUMTER ITEM

South Carolina: After consecutive road games, Gamecocks return home to play Tennessee on Saturday. Florida: Gators conclude a huge week by playing at No. 11 Kentucky on Saturday, a game that could decide the league’s regular-season champion and top seed in the SEC Tournament.

Wilson Hall’s Liza Segars (4) puts up a shot while being defended by Cardinal Newman’s Sierra Bacon (15) during the Lady Barons’ 50-37 loss on Tuesday in the SCISA 3A state tournament quarterfinals at Sumter County Civic Center. Saturday, Rector had no complaints about his team’s season. “Considering that we

lost all five starters from last season, I think we had a tremendous season,” Rector said. “We

worked hard and continued to improve. To go 19-7 is a great accomplishment.”

SCISA STATE TOURNAMENTS 3A

Boys Quarterfinals Today At Sumter County Civic Center Upper Bracket (4) Ben Lippen vs. (1) Cardinal Newman, 3:30 p.m. (3) Northwood vs. (2) Pinewood Prep, 5 p.m. Lower Bracket (5) Hammond vs. (1) Porter-Gaud, 6:30 p.m. (3) Laurence Manning vs. (2) Heathwood Hall, 8 p.m. Girls Quarterfinals Tuesday Upper Bracket (4) Hammond at (1) Northwood (3) Ben Lippen vs. (2) Florence Christian Lower Bracket At Sumter County Civic Center (4) Pinewood Prep vs. (1) First Baptist (3) Wilson Hall vs. (2) Cardinal Newman

ECHS FROM PAGE B1 to four points with 5:09 left in the final quarter. The Wolverines were able to do so because Bethune-Bow-

2A Boys Quarterfinals Tuesday Upper Bracket (1) Spartanburg Day vs. (3) Pee Dee (1) Trinity-Byrnes vs. (2) Palmetto Christian Lower Bracket Christian Academy vs. Oakbrook Prep, 8 p.m. (1) Hilton Head Prep vs. (2) Spartanburg Christian Girls Semifinals Thursday Upper Bracket at Sumter County Civic Center (1) Thomas Sumter vs. (2) Spartanburg Christian, 6:30 p.m. Lower Bracket (1) Hilton Head Christian vs. (2) Calhoun Academy, 3:30 p.m.

man went scoreless for the four minutes. The Mohawks finally scored on a Wedgeworth free throw. BethuneBowman would see its lead cut to two points with 1:09 left in te game. The Wolverines tied the game with

Boys Quarterfinals Tuesday Upper Bracket (1) Charleston Collegiate vs. (3) Richard Winn (1) Beaufort Academy vs. (2) Covenant Christian Lower Bracket (1) Anderson Christian vs. (2) North Myrtle Beach Christian (1) Dorchester vs. (2) Cathedral Academy Girls Semifinals Thursday Upper Bracket at Wilson Hall “A” (1) Laurens Academy vs. (1) Holly Hill, 6 p.m. at Wilson Hall “B” Lower Bracket (1) Dorchester vs. (2) Richard Winn, 6 p.m.

49 seconds remaining. The Mohawks hit free throws down the stretch to win. Jabari Rose led the Wolverines with 20 points. Chris White added 16.

TIGERS FROM PAGE B1 with 18 points.

BIG PICTURE Clemson: The Tigers have been known for their defense under coach Brad Brownell, but have struggled in ACC play this season. Clemson fell to 1-7 in ACC games in which it has allowed the opponent to shoot 49 percent. The Tigers have a shot at postseason play, but their chances are dwindling. Virginia Tech: The Hokies are in great position to make the NCAA Tournament for the first time in a decade. They don’t have a bad loss and play two of their final three regularseason games against teams behind them in the ACC standings.

UP NEXT Clemson: The Tigers close the regular season with three consecutive home games, starting Saturday when they take on No. 19 Florida State. Virginia Tech: The Hokies played their final road game of the season Saturday when they travel to Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts to face Boston College.

SCHSL STATE PLAYOFFS BOYS

5A Third Round Tuesday Upper State (2) Gaffney at (1) T.L. Hanna (3) Riverside at (1) Dorman Lower State (2) Irmo at (1) Goose Creek (4) Lexington at (1) Blythewood 4A Third Round Tuesday Upper State (1) Ridge View at (1) Wren (1) South Pointe at (1) Eastside Lower State (1) Wilson at (1) A.C. Flora (3) Dreher at (2) Lower Richland 3A Third Round Tuesday Upper State (2) Berea at (1) Clinton (1) Seneca at (1) Southside Lower State (1) Brookland-Cayce at (1) Ridgeland-Hardeeville (1) Bishop England at (1) Dillon 2A Third Round Today Upper State (4) Saluda at (1) Gray Collegiate (2) Keenan at (1) Greenville Tech

Lower State (1) Marion at (1) Burke (2) Carvers Bay at (1) Calhoun County 1A Third Round Today Upper State (2) Hunter-Kinard-Tyler at (1) Calhoun Falls (1) Williston-Elko at (1) Lewisville Lower State (2) East Clarendon at (1) Bethune-Bowman (1) Baptist Hill at (1) Hemingway

GIRLS

(1) (1) (1) (1)

(1) (1)

5A Third Round Monday Upper State Wade Hampton 57, (2) Clover 28 Dorman 57, (2) Woodmont 49 Lower State Goose Creek 51, (2) Irmo 36 Conway 33, (4) Socastee 27 Finals Saturday 5 p.m. Upper State at Bon Secours Wellness Arena (Greenville) Wade Hampton vs. (1) Dorman Lower State Florence Civic Center Goose Creek vs. (1) Conway

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4A Third Round Monday Upper State (1) Greenville 69, (1) Ridge View 44 (1) North Augusta 63, (3) Richland Northeast 33 Lower State (1) Lower Richland 35, (1) Myrtle Beach 34 (2) Wilson 56, (1) Crestwood 52 Finals Friday 7 p.m. Upper State at Bon Secours Wellness Arena (Greenville) (1) Greenville vs. (1) North Augusta Lower State Florence Civic Center (1) Lower Richland vs. (2) Wilson 3A Third Round Monday Upper State (1) Newberry 64, (1) Fairfield Central 36 (1) Seneca 77, (1) Emerald 69 Lower State (1) Ridgeland-Hardeeville 56, (2) Manning 51 (1) Bishop England 38, (1) Dillon 27 Finals Saturday 2 p.m. Upper State

at Bon Secours Wellness Arena (Greenville) (1) Newberry vs. (1) Seneca Lower State Florence Civic Center (1) Ridgeland-Hardeeville vs. (1) Bishop England 2A Third Round Monday Upper State (1) Christ Church 58, (1) Keenan 50 (1) Andrew Jackson 55, (2) Landrum 42 Lower State (1) Mullins 81, (1) Burke 42 (1) Batesburg-Leesville 65, (2) Marion 56 Finals Friday 4 p.m. Upper State at Bon Secours Wellness Arena (Greenville) (1) Christ Church vs. (1) Andrew Jackson Lower State Florence Civic Center (1) Mullins vs. (1) Batesburg-Leesville 1A Third Round Monday Upper State (3) Estill 46, (2) Denmark-Olar 39 (1) Lamar 34, (2) Timmonsville 21

Lower State (2) Green Sea-Floyds 60, (1) Cross 58 (1) East Clarendon 73, (1) Charleston Math & Science 46 Finals Saturday 11 a.m. Upper State at Bon Secours Wellness Arena (Greenville) (3) Estill vs. (1) Lamar Lower State Florence Civic Center (1) Green Sea-Floyds vs. (1) East Clarendon

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OBITUARIES

THE SUMTER ITEM

MILES JAMES KEPNER SUMMERTON — Miles James “Jim” Kepner, age 77, beloved husband of 26 years to Star Hunter Kepner, died on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, at the Medical University of South Carolina. Born in ParKEPNER sons, West Virginia, he was a son of the late Myrl Joseph and Frances Kathryn Dumire Kepner. Jim was a graduate of Kansas State University and was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He served as plant manager for Bendix in Kansas City, Detroit and Windsor, Canada, prior to moving to South Carolina. While in Sumter, Jim served as plant manager at Bendix, Allied and Bosch. In 1985, he was recognized as the South Carolina Business Person of the Year and he had also been named the Sumter Business Person of the Year during the 1980s. Following his retirement, Jim went on to serve on the Sumter Economic Development Board and later served as the director. Jim served on State Economic Development Board under Gov. Carroll Campbell. Jim served on various boards including: Tuomey Hospital Board; Tuomey Foundation Board; Sunset Country Club Board; and the Sumter Shaw Partnership. In addition to his local service, Jim served on various boards across the state and nation. Jim was an honorary base commander for Shaw Air Force Base. He was a founding member of the Sunrise Rotary Club, where he served as president. He was a Paul Harris Fellow and was active in the Sumter Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church at Manning. In addition to his wife, Star Hunter Kepner of Summerton, Jim is survived by two sons, James Ray Wright II and his wife, Lea Ann PainterWright, of Greenville and David Maddox Wright of New York; four daughters, Crystal Starr Martin of Olympia, Washington, Misty Martin Harris and her husband, Gregg, of Kernersville, North Carolina, April Martin Cothran and her husband, Scott Ferrell Cothran, of Mount Pleasant and Lauren Wright Jones and her husband, David, of Troy, Michigan; one sister, Nancy Kepner Haag of Plattsmouth, Nebraska; nine grandchildren, Daniel, Emilea, James, Molly, Hunter Anne, Garrison, Miles, Elli and Harper Mae; and three great-grandchildren, Deborah Rose, Ella and Nathaniel; along with numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his daughter, Deborah Wright. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday at the Presbyterian Church at Manning, 233 N. Brooks St., Manning, with the Rev. Dr. George Wilkes officiating. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday at Bullock Funeral Home, 1190 Wilson Hall Road, Sumter. Memorials may be made to the Presbyterian Church at Manning, 233 N. Brooks St.,

Manning, SC 29102 or to the American Heart Association, 4217 Park Place Court, Glenn Allen, VA 23060-9979. You may go to www.bullockfuneralhome.com and sign the family’s guest book. The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home of Sumter for the arrangements.

CARY M. LEE JR. MANNING — Cary Michael Lee Jr., 27, died on Monday, Feb. 20, 2017, at Palmetto Health Tuomey. Born on Nov. 23, 1989, in Sumter, he was the beloved son of Cary Michael Lee Sr. and LEE Gwen Hill Lee. He was the coowner of Lee Plumbing Co.; a 2007 graduate of Laurence Manning Academy; and he was an avid outdoorsman and hunter. He never met a stranger and was loved by all he met. He was a member of Clarendon Baptist Church. He is survived by his parents of Manning; two sisters, Courtney McFaddin (George) of Simpsonville and Whitney Welch (Jonathan) of Alcolu; paternal grandparents, Curtis and Mary Frances Lee of Manning; maternal grandmother, Frances Hill of Manning; a beloved niece, Carly McFaddin; a beloved nephew, Weston McFaddin; and many loving aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Marion T. Hill. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday in the chapel of Stephens Funeral Home with the Rev. Dr. Norman Rogers and the Rev. Ryan Linkous (first cousin) officiating. Burial will follow in Trinity Cemetery in Alcolu. Pallbearers will be Curt Lee, Derek Lee, Jay Morris, Mason Lee, Taylor Lee, Tilton McCrea and Hank Thompson. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the residence, 1536 Loblolly Drive, Manning. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 128 Stonemark Lane, Columbia, SC 29210 or to the American Heart Association, 520 Gervais St., Suite 300, Columbia, SC 29201. Stephens Funeral Home & Crematory, 304 N. Church St., Manning, is in charge of arrangements, (803) 435-2179. www.stephensfuneralhome. org

JAMES B. SNOW James Bernard Snow, 52, departed this life unexpectedly on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2017, at his home. Born on April 6, 1964, in Sumter County, he was the fourth child of the late Harry and Lue E. Bowen Snow. SNOW He attended Rafting Creek Elementary School, High Hills Middle School, Ebenezer Junior

High School and graduated from Hillcrest High School. He was employed with Trussell Brother’s Construction for almost 30 years. Bernard had been employed with MV Poole Construction Co. Inc. for the past few years. He was a faithful and active member of Willow Grove AME Church, where he served on the trustee board and attended Sunday school. He leaves to cherish his memories: his siblings, Carol Hall of Columbia, Harry (Judith) Snow Jr. of Savannah, Georgia, Margaret (Alonzo) Crewell of Columbia, Cornelius Snow of Woodbridge, Virginia, Renee (Jesse) Sewell of Columbia, Gary (Angela) Snow of Rembert, Sandy Snow of Claremont and Terry (Lynn) Snow of Claremont; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Homegoing services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at Willow Grove AME Church, 8105 Sumter Landing Road, Horatio, with the Rev. Wallace Preston, pastor, eulogist. The family is receiving relatives and friends at 2295 Blue Jay Lane, Rembert, and 2645 Snow Lane, Rembert. The funeral procession will leave at 10:20 a.m. from the home, 2645 Snow Lane, Rembert. Floral bearers will be first cousins, family and friends. Pallbearers will be Cornell Harris, Lewis Pinckney, Jeff Snow, Anthony Snow, Charles Tolbert and Jamar Snow. Burial will be in Willow Grove AME Churchyard cemetery. Services directed by the management and staff of Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter. Online memorial messages may be sent to the family at williamsfuneralhome@sc.rr. com. Visit us on the web at www.WilliamsFuneralHomeInc.com.

WILLIAM B. FORD On Feb. 17, 2017, God called William Bernard Ford home at Palmetto Health Tuomey. He was born on April 28, 1963, to the late Juanita Ford Jordan. William graduated from Sumter High School Class of 1982. He leaves to cherish his memories: three brothers, James Edward Ford of Apopka, Florida, Robert (Mary) Brown of Sumter and David R. Brown of Apopka; five sisters, Jeanette Mickens, Sylvia Ford and Sharon Brown, all of Sumter, Michelle Jordan of Roanoke, Virginia, and Veronica Jordan of Hempstead, New York; two aunts, Sammie (George) Toney of Sumter and Gloria Jean Richardson of Sumter; three uncles, Tony (Shirley) Mickens of Apopka, and Bert Kenlay and John (Don) Mickens of Sumter; two granduncles, Harley Ford and Roosevelt Ford of Sumter; a special friend, Sarah Williams; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Rosa Ford Mickens; and two niec-

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017 es, Africa Ford and Teosha Ford. Public viewing will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. today at Job’s Mortuary. Mr. Ford will be placed in the church at 2 p.m. on Thursday for viewing until the hour of service. Funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday at Salem Chapel & Heritage Center, 101 S. Salem Ave., Sumter. Interment will follow in Bradford Cemetery. The family is receiving friends at the home of his brother, 1503 Copley Drive, Sumter. Job’s Mortuary Inc., 312 S. Main St., Sumter, is in charge of arrangements.

SARAH JANE G. SMITH TURBEVILLE — Sarah Jane Gordon Smith, 69, wife of Leroy Smith, died on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2017, at Palmetto Health Tuomey. She was born on April 29, 1947, in Turbeville, a daughter of the late Wilbur Moore and Viola Mae Gordon. The family is receiving friends at her residence, 1306 Hicks Road, Turbeville. These services have been entrusted to Samuels Funeral Home LLC of Manning.

ALICE H. CUTTER MANNING — Alice Earline Hodge “Susie” Cutter, 59, wife of Francis Dale Cutter, died on Monday, Feb. 20, 2017, at McLeod Health Clarendon. Born on Feb. 13, 1958, in Columbia, she was a daughter of Janie Earline McGrady Hodge and the late Allen Furman Hodge Sr. She was a member of Deep Creek Pentecostal Holiness Church. She is survived by her husband of 37 years; her mother of Manning; two daughters, Gina Cutter and Shirley Cutter, both of Manning; four grandchildren, Kerri Vause, Mac McIntosh, Jonathan Cutter and Ryan Cutter; and two brothers, Lewis Hodge Sr. (Ann) of Manning and A.J. Hodge of Lexington. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by a brother, Allen Furman Hodge Jr. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday in the chapel of Stephens Funeral Home with the Rev. Josh Evans officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service from 2 to 3 p.m. at Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the residence, 4673 Kenwood Road, Manning. Stephens Funeral Home & Crematory, 304 N. Church St., Manning, is in charge of arrangements, (803) 435-2179. www.stephensfuneralhome. org

DAYTON J. WALKER An interment service for Dayton Junior Walker will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at Hillside Memorial Park, 3001 Cains Mill Road, Sumter, followed by a memorial service at noon at Palmer Memorial Chapel, 304 S. Main St., Sumter. Brother Joseph Davis will officiate. There will be no public viewing.

JAVION DEVONTA WILLIAMS MANNING — Javion Devonta Williams, 2, died on Monday, Feb. 20, 2017, at McLeod Health Clarendon, Manning. He was born on April 4, 2014, in Manning, a son of James Lee Williams and Samantha Vickers. These services have been entrusted to Samuels Funeral Home LLC of Manning.

EDITH B. BROWNING Edith Hollene Bayless Browning, 95, widow of Millard Ernest Browning, died on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, at a local nursing center. Born in Lorado, West Virginia, she was a daughter of the late George and Irene McCoy Bayless. Mrs. Browning was a charter member of the Cosmopolitan Club and a volunteer with the American Red Cross. She was a former employee of the Logan Banner Newspaper in Logan, West Virginia. Surviving are numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by brothers, Thurmond Bayless, Elisha Bayless and Ronald Bayless Sr.; and sisters, Elsie Beckett and Faye Ragsdale. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the Florence National Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals. com. Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.

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Mr. Walker, husband of the late Mildred Pringle Walker, transitioned on Friday, Feb. 17, 2017, at Sumter Health and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Sumter County, he was a son of the late Clarence and Lula Davis Walker. As a young man, he served his country in the United States Army. After military, Mr. Walker was employed by Georgia-Pacific Corp. until retirement. He began his Christian journey at Enon Missionary Baptist Church and in later years, he joined Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church and served on the board of trustees. Survivors are four sons, Elijah (Annie) Walker, David (Valaire) Walker, Harmon Walker and Rudolph (Laura) Walker, all of Sumter; one daughter, Francene Walker of Sumter; a special friend, Ronell Green of Florence; two sisters-in-law, Catherine Walker of Philadelphia and Annie Lou Pringle of Sumter; and a host of other relatives and friends. Condolences may be made on his tribute page found at www.PalmerMemorialChapel. com. Professional services rendered by Palmer Memorial Chapel Inc.

Schedule your appointment soon! Hair and makeup available! 830 S. Pike West • Sumter, SC 29150

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1018 N. Guignard Dr, Sumter, SC • 803-773-5567

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THE ITEM

CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS Announcements Sumter ghost finders, for a limited time, will pay $60 to investigate local haunted places. Privacy assured. 803-481-8826

BUSINESS SERVICES Home Improvements H.L. Boone, Contractor: Remodel paint roofs gutters drywall blown ceilings ect. 773-9904 All out Home Improvements We beat everybody's price Licensed & Bonded 803-316-8969

Lawn Service Pearson's Lawn Service & Landscaping Free Estimates Call 803-406-3514

Legal Service Attorney Timothy L. Griffith 803-607-9087, 360 W. Wesmark. Criminal, Family, Accident, Injury

Roofing Robert's Metal Roofing 35 Yrs exp. 45 yr warranty. Financing avail. Expert installation. Long list of satisfied customers. 803-837-1549.

Tree Service Ricky's Tree Service Tree removal, stump grinding, Lic & ins, free quote, 803-435-2223 or cell 803-460-8747.

MERCHANDISE Want to Buy Wanted: Antique Bottles preferably non-screw top and SC made is a plus. Call 803-840-1539.

Garage, Yard & Estate Sales LARGE GARAGE SALE Every Weekend Tables $2 & $3 FLEA MARKET BY SHAW AFB

Open every weekend. Call 803-494-5500

For Sale or Trade 4 grave plots side by side for sale at Evergreen Memorial Park. Cost per plot $2200. Call 803-614-7596 New & used Heat pumps & A/C. Will install/repair, Call 803-968-9549 or 843-992-2364 3 bar stools-dark 29" high w/backs, like new $100 each. 803-469-2958 rocker/recliner, burgundy/blue good condition $140 803-775-3252

803-774-12

OR TO PLACE YOUR AD ONLINE GO TO WWW.THE ITEM.COM/PLACEMYAD Help Wanted Full-Time

Unfurnished Homes

Dental Assistant, who is caring, compassionate and loves working with kids! Must be experienced and team-oriented, for a fun loving, fast-paced pediatric dental office. Excellent pay for Dental experience. Fax resume to 803-934-9943.

Old Manning Rd.: 3 Br, 2 Ba. on 1 acre private lot in country. All hardwood floors, frig & stove, W/D hookup. Carport & fenced yard. Outside pet only. No Section 8. $1200 mo. with 1 year lease. 803-491-5375

SLS & the SC Disaster Recovery Office is seeking qualified subcontractors to perform approximately $70 million in repair and/or replacement of approximately 1,500 homes damaged by the flooding event in 2015. For more information on the RFQ, please call (803) 233-2741 or email kscott@slsco.com and bharrison@slsco.com during regular business hours. Chef/CDM/Kitchen Manager Please apply in person at NHC HealthCare Sumter 1018 N. Guignard Dr. Sumter, SC (EOE) Nesbitt Transportation is now hiring Class A CDL Drivers. Must be 23 yrs old and have 2 yrs experience. Home nights and weekends. Also hiring experience diesel mechanic. Call 843-621-0943 or 843-659-8254 New Today Positions Available Bottled water plant seeking Exp. line leaders, operators, & electrical and mechanical maintenance, with Exp. on high speed automated production equipment. Also Exp. food QA manager and warehouse manager. All applicants must apply in person between the hrs. of 8am-5pm, Mon.-Fri. at Hickory Springs Bottle Inc. 347 Old River Rd. Elloree, S.C. 29047 Truck Driver Helena Chemical Co. has an opening for an experienced truck driver with a Class B CDL & a hazmat endorsement. This person would make deliveries, load & unload products, ability to use forklift, & perform various warehouse duties. Requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Offers excellent benefits package. Applications may be submitted in person at 5055 Florence Hwy, Mayesville, SC 29104 or Resumes can be emailed to hodgea @helenachemical.com of faxed to 803-453-5153. Pre-employment drug screen required Truck Shop Diesel mechanic needed. Local shop looking to grow. General knowledge of trucks/trailers a must. Welding skills desired. CDL pref. but not mandatory. Typical work wk is Tues.-Sat. Competitive hrly salary based on exp/knowledge. Call Michael 803-316-2113 Thomas Sumter Academy in Rembert, SC is seeking applicants for a part-time school bus driver for our Eastover route. Requirements are: a CDL license, Department of Transportation Physical and a copy of your driving record for the last ten years. Please send this information along with a resume to Susan.hux@thomassumter.org.

Housekeepers needed: Apply in person at Howard Johnson, 2816 Paxville Hwy, Manning, SC 29102, Experience preferred. No phone Calls

Good cond. blue & mauve sectional sofa. Free delivery. $285 Call 803-840-1550

Medical Help Wanted

2 Cemetery plots in Evergreen $1500 Ea. Call 803-775-3234

Pediatric office with part-time opening for receptionist, afternoons only. Requires EHR/Computer experience, and good communication skills. Bring in or mail resume with salary requirements to: 380 W. Wesmark Blvd. Bldg., B, Sumter, SC

EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted Full-Time Delivery and install man needed, will require drug screening and back ground cheek, clean driving record. E-mail/mail resume to bobsappliance2003@yahoo.com or 1152 Pocalla Rd. Sumter, SC 29150 No walk ins please! F/T HVAC Service Tech position available. Gene's Heating & Air, LLC, Requirements: • Valid SCDL with clean record • Reliable attendance & punctuality • Excellent customer service skills • Prefer 5 yr. with NATE certified Applications available Email resume to: geneshvacap @ftc-i.net

RENTALS Unfurnished Homes 3BR/2BA DW, large private lot, between Sumter and Manning. $600mo+$600dep Call 803-473-7577

Autos For Sale 2006 Toyota Sienna 108k, new tires, garage kept, excellent condition. $7000 OBO Call 803-469-6228

Miscellaneous

Huntington Place Apartments Rents from $625 per month 1 Month free* *13 Month lease required Leasing office located at Ashton Mill Apartment Homes 595 Ashton Mill Drive 803-773-3600 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5

Mobile Home Rentals 3BR & 2BR, all appliances, Sumter area. Section 8 accepted. 469-6978 or 499-1500 3BR 1.5BA MH for Rent Located in Whispering Pines MHP off Bethel Church Rd $525 mo.+deposit at signing of lease Contact David 803-468-3724

STATEBURG COURTYARD 2 & 3 Br, Sec. 8 803-494-4015 American MHP, 2 & 3/BR, lot rentals, water/sewer/garbage pkup inc'd. Sec. 8 ok. 803-494-4300.

Mobile Home Lot Rentals 1 Lot For Mobile home. Rent $165 /mo. Incl's water & Sewage. Peaceful neighborhood. Off 521 N. 1.5 miles passed Kmart Call. 803-983-3121

REAL ESTATE Homes for Sale

Refurbished batteries as low as $45. New batteries as low as $59.95. Auto Electric Co., 102 Blvd Rd. 803-773-4381

LEGAL NOTICES Legal Notice NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: The following self-storage Cube contents containing household and other goods will be sold for cash by CubeSmart 4194 Broad Street Sumter, SC 29154 to satisfy a lien on March 9, 2017 at approximately 11:00 am at www.storagetreasures.com Shanikqua Oaks - Cube 137

Beer & Wine License Notice Of Application Notice is hereby given that Vitthalkrupa Inc. dba Mozingos ABC Store intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a license permit that will allow the sale OFF premises consumption of liquor at 3350 N. Main St., Unit B, Sumter, Sc 29153. To object to the issuance of this permit / license, written protest must be postmarked no later than March 3, 2017. For a protest to be valid, it must be in writing, and should include the following information: (1) the name, address and telephone number of the person filing the protest; (2) the specific reasons why the application should be denied; (3) that the person protesting is willing to attend a hearing (if one is requested by the applicant); (4) that the person protesting resides in the same county where the proposed place of business is located or within five miles of the business; and (5) the name of the applicant and the address of the premises to be licensed. Protests must be mailed to: S.C. Department of Revenue, ATTN: ABL, P.O. Box 125, Columbia, South Carolina 29214; or Faxed to: (803) 896-0110.

Bid Notices BID NOTICE Bethel Baptist Church Is currently accepting bids for Lawn Maintenance. You may stop by the church office at 2401 Bethel Church Road, Sumter, and pick up in application. Deadline for bids is March 2, 2017.

6 Middle St. Price reduced. 3 or 4 Br. 2 Ba. C/H/A. New construction. Financing available. Call 803-464-5960 or 803-775-4391 2000sqft, 3BR/2BA, large family room, living room,dining room, fenced in yard, add on playroom & new heat pump. $99k Call 803-840-5201

Manufactured Housing M & M Mobile Homes, Inc. Now selling New Wind Zone II Champion and Clayton Homes. Lots of floor plans available to custom design your home. Nice used refurbished homes still available also. Bank and Owner financing with ALL CREDIT SCORES accepted. Call 1-843-389-4215 Like us on Facebook M & M Mobile Homes.

Mobile Home with Lots Mobile Home & Land for sale located off Blvd Rd 350 Rolling Creek Subdv $12,500 as is. Call 803-316-3693

Land & Lots for Sale 3/4 Acre, Eagles Nest Electric, water, $3900 Call 713-870-0216

Summons & Notice SUMMONS (Deficiency Judgment Waived) (Mortgage Foreclosure) Non-Jury IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CASE NO. 2017-CP-43-00006 STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF SUMTER Ditech Financial, LLC f/k/a Green Tree Servicing LLC

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2011 Chevrolet Aveo 5D LT

73K Miles

TRANSPORTATION

Autos For Sale 2005 Buick Lesabre-Tan. One car owner, non smoker. 19,108 miles, like new $8,000 Call Cell 803-464-7045

FOR SALE BY SEALED BID 131 Hauser St. 2.43 acres and buildings. www.land.scana.com (803) 217-9171

CLASSIFIED DEADLINES

11:30 a.m. the day before for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday edition. 11:30 a.m. Friday for Sunday’s edition. We will be happy to change your ad if an error is made; however we are not responsible for errors after the first run day. We shall not be liable for any loss or expense that results from the printing or omission of an advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, refuse or cancel any ad at any time.

Summons & Notice

Plaintiff, -vsWillie Mae Patricia Morales and RJM Acquisitions, LLC, Defendant(s) TO THE DEFENDANT(S), Acquisitions, LLC

Unfurnished Apartments Senior Living Apartments for those 62+ (Rent based on income) Shiloh-Randolph Manor 125 W. Bartlette. 775-0575 Studio/1 Bedroom apartments available EHO

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017

RJM

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your Answer on the subscribers at their offices, 1640 St. Julian Place, Columbia, South Carolina 29202, within thirty (30) days after service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service; except that the United States of America, if named, shall have sixty (60) days to answer after the service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service; and if you fail to answer the Complaint within the time aforesaid, the Plaintiff in this action will apply to the Court for a judgment by default granting the relief demanded in the Complaint. TO MINOR(S) OVER FOURTEEN YEARS OF AGE, AND/OR TO MINOR(S) UNDER FOURTEEN YEARS OF AGE AND THE PERSON WITH WHOM THE MINOR(S) RESIDE(S), AND/OR TO PERSON UNDER SOME LEGAL DISABILITY, INCOMPETENTS AND PERSONS CONFINED AND PERSON IN THE MILITARY: YOUR ARE FURTHER SUMMONED AND NOTIFIED to apply for the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem within thirty (30) days after service of this Summons and Notice upon you. If you fail to do so, application for such appointment will be made by the Plaintiff.

NOTICE OF FILING COMPLAINT YOU WILL PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Summons and Complaint in the above-captioned action were filed on January 5, 2017, in the Office of the Clerk of Court for Sumter County, South Carolina. Crawford & von Keller, LLC PO Box 4216 1640 St. Julian Place (29204) Columbia, SC 29204 Phone: 803-790-2626 Attorneys for Plaintiff

SUMMONS IN THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DOCKET NO.: 2016-DR-43-1498 STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF SUMTER James Warren, Plaintiff, vs. Betty Warren, Defendant. TO: THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT, BETTY WARREN: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint in this action, of which a copy is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your Answer to said Complaint on the subscribed, 109 North Main Street, Post Office Box 1211, Sumter, South Carolina 29151, within thirty (30) days after the service hereof, exclusive of the date of such service; and if you fail to answer the Complaint within the time aforesaid judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. THE DEAS LAW FIRM GARRYL L. DEAS, ESQUIRE 109 NORTH MAIN STREET POST OFFICE BOX 1211 SUMTER, SOUTH CAROLINA 29151 (803) 775-7004 ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF SUMMONS AND NOTICE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF SUMTER IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS C/A NO. 2015-CP-43-02266 U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee for Springleaf Mortgage Loan Trust 2012-2, Plaintiff vs. The Personal Representative, if any, whose name is unknown, of the Estate of Naomi D. China; Linda Brown, Joseph China III, Beverly Sanders, LaFonda DuPont, and Kendrick DuPont, and

any other Heirs-at-Law or Devisees of Naomi D. China, Deceased, their heirs, Personal Representatives, Administrators, Successors and Assigns, and all other persons entitled to claim through them; all unknown persons with any right, title or interest in the real estate described herein; also any persons who may be in the military service of the United States of America, being a class designated as John Doe; and any unknown minors or persons under a disability being a class designated as Richard Roe, Defendants. TO THE DEFENDANT(S) Kendrick DuPont, Joseph China III, and Beverly Sanders: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint in the above action, a copy which is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your Answer upon the undersigned at their offices, 2838 Devine Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29205, within thirty (30) days after service upon you, exclusive of the day of such service, and, if you fail to answer the Complaint within the time aforesaid, judgment by default will be rendered against you for relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the original Complaint in this action was filed in the office of the Clerk of Court for Sumter County on October 7, 2015. NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the South Carolina Supreme Court Administrative Order 2011-05-02-01, you have a right to be considered for Foreclosure Intervention. NOTICE OF PENDENCY OF ACTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT an action has been commenced and is now pending or is about to be commenced in the Circuit Court upon the complaint of the above named Plaintiff against the above named Defendant for the purpose of foreclosing a certain mortgage of real estate heretofore given by Naomi D. China to U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee for Springleaf Mortgage Loan Trust 2012-2 bearing date of January 31, 2002 and recorded February 4, 2002 in Mortgage Book 831 at Page 1318. This Mortgage is subject to a Loan Modification Agreement dated August 13, 2013 and recorded August 16, 2013 in Book 1192 at Page 1880. in the Register of Mesne Conveyances/Register of Deeds/Clerk of Court for Sumter County, in the original principal sum of Thirty Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty and 00/100 Dollars ($39,920.00). Thereafter, the mortgage was assigned to U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee for Springleaf Mortgage Loan Trust 2012-2, by assignment dated July 13, 2015 and recorded on July 20, 2015 in Book 1213 at Page 1425. Thereafter, the mortgage was assigned to U.S. Bank National Association as Indenture Trustee for CIM Trust 2015-3AG Mortgage-Backed Notes, Series 2015-3AG by assignment recorded on November 30, 2016 in Book 1227 at Page 5676., and that the premises effected by said mortgage and by the foreclosure thereof are situated in the County of Sumter, State of South Carolina, and is described as follows: All that piece, parcel or lot of land, with the house and improvements thereon, situate lying and being in the County of Sumter, State of South Carolina, in Leawood Subdivision, and being fully shown and delineated as Lot 220 on a Plat by J.P. Edwards, RLS dated June 7, 1971, and recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Court for Sumter County in Plat Book Z-30 at Page 138, the said lot being bounded: On the North by Lot 219 as shown on said plat and measuring thereon 160 feet; on the East by an easement as shown on said plat and other land of Litco, Inc., and measuring thereon 93.9 feet; on the South by Lot 221 as shown on said plat and measuring thereon 133.3 feet; and on the West by Wyoming Drive and fronting thereon 90 feet; be all of said dimensions a little more or less. TMS No. 251-12-04039 Property Address: 320 Wyoming Drive, Sumter, SC 29153 Riley Pope & Laney, LLC Post Office Box 11412 Columbia, South Carolina 29211 Telephone (803) 799-9993 Attorneys for Plaintiff

CONTRACTORS WANTED! • BISHOPVILLE • • MAYESVILLE, ST. CHARLES, ELLIOTT & LYNCHBURG If you have good, dependable transportation, a phone in your home, and a desire to earn extra income

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SECTION

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017 Call Ivy Moore at: (803) 774-1221 | E-mail: ivy@theitem.com

Lemira team hosts 5th Step Off Teams from 3 states slated to compete BY IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com

he small gym at Lemira Elementary School echoed with the sounds of stomp-

ing feet, clapping hands and an occasional shout. The school’s step team was practicing its routine after school on Thursday for the 5th Annual Lemira Lion Golden Steppers’ Step Off on March 4. The team has won many competitions over the past seven years, since physical education teacher Mary Tuggle was persuaded to start and coach a step team at Lemira, but as host team of the March 4 step off at Sumter High School, the all-female team won’t be competing; they’ll be demonstrating. That means “We need to be perfect,” Tuggle told the team. Assistant coaches Ave Powell and Mario Burch work with the team alongside Tuggle. Burch is an accomplished stepper himself, Tuggle said. Stepping is an increasingly popular dance/art form in which the steppers use their bodies to make intricate, rhythmic sounds by combining footsteps or stomps and claps with their voices. It has its origins in African foot dances used by South African miners to communicate after authorities banned drumming. The teams competing will be judged on such criteria as synchronization of movements, how well the team makes the transition from one formation to another, creativity, appearance and precision. Their enthusiasm and how well their routine advances their theme are also considered by the judges. The Lemira steppers entered the gym, lined up in their first formation and began reciting the mantra for their routine, written by Tuggle. It’s a female empowerment theme that will later be advanced by chest thumps and facial expression, another criterion judges consider. The steppers alternated foot stomps with recited lines: “They say I’m just a girl. “They say I’m weak. “They say the man is in charge. “They tell me I’m pretty, not smart. “They say I can’t ... . “I will take the road less traveled. ...”

PHOTOS BY KASEY MEREDITH / THE SUMTER ITEM

Members of the Lemira step team practice stepping in unison. If they aren’t in synch, their score suffers. Then it was on to an energetic routine, the steppers stomping and clapping in unison, stopping to work on a choreography glitch with their transition. They used all parts of their bodies, as Tuggle shouted to

Jiraiya Jacobs,10, left, focuses intently on her next move during the Lemira Lion Golden Steppers’ practice for their 5th Annual Lemira Lion Golden Steppers’ Step Off, which they’re hosting at Sumter High School on March 4.

floor and a smaller them to “focus!” girl jumps onto it to At the end of each do some more moves. transition routine, a “Nobody else stepper shouts around here does BANJI, and team that,” she said. “I members stop in unithink our team has a son. In keeping with good chance at wintheir positive theme, ning some competiBANJI is an acronym tions this year.” for “Be Authentic, Tuggle said the Never Jeopardize InLemira Lion Golden dividuality.” ConfiSteppers will host eldence is an important ementary, middle and part of stepping, Tughigh school teams gle said. from Charlotte, BlyRickell Brown, a thewood, Augusta, 5th-grader, is a fourCharleston, Augusta, year Lemira stepper Sumter and other loand a team captain. cations for the 2 p.m. Her older sister was Saturday, March 4, on the team, and now step off at Sumter her younger sister is High School, 2580 Mcwatching practice, Ty’janay Nathaniel, 9, emphatiCrays Mill Road. Admimicking Rickell — cally stomps while ending the mission is $5, with and getting most of stepping sequence. Emotion is funds raised earthe moves. one of the judging factors in a marked for travel ex“Stepping is very step competition. penses for the multichallenging,” Rickell ple award-winning said, “but when she (Tuggle) fusses at us, we take the cor- Lemira Lion Golden Steppers. For more information call Tuggle at (803) rection as a compliment.” 464-7795. Rickell said the Golden Steppers’ To see the Lemira team in action, signature move is the platform, in visit the website https://youtube.com/ which several of the older girls lift a watch?v=0EM-beCXizk small platform about 3 feet off the

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803-607-9677

COMICS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2017

THE SUMTER ITEM

BIZARRO

SOUP TO NUTZ

ANDY CAPP

GARFIELD

BEETLE BAILEY

BORN LOSER

BLONDIE

ZITS

MOTHER GOOSE

DOG EAT DOUG

DILBERT

JEFF MACNELLY’S SHOE

Daughter’s asexuality is not accepted by her mom DEAR ABBY — I have recently started disclosing to close friends and family that I am asexual (someone Dear Abby who experiABIGAIL ences no sexual attracVAN BUREN tion to any person). For the most part they have been supportive, but my mother and one of my friends are having trouble accepting it. I have told them I do not want children and that I am repulsed by the thought of sexual intercourse, but my mother acts like if I don’t have children, I won’t be as welcome. She even suggested that I could marry a gay man, so sex wouldn’t be an issue. And my friend con-

JUMBLE THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME By David L Hoyt and Jeff Knurek

tinues to pressure me into dating, saying I “just haven’t met the right one yet.” Abby, I have no clue how to maintain contact with them, as they seem unwilling to let my sexual identity be my business. An ace in a hole

should not be punished for it. Please try not to be defensive because this is your chance to educate. Answer their questions with patience and kindness and do not let yourself be bullied or emotionally blackmailed into doing anything you are not comfortable with.

DEAR ACE — Your sexual identity became their business the minute you told them you were asexual. The problem is that your friend and your mother do not understand what asexuality is — and many people don’t. Please tell your mother for me that marrying a gay man is not the answer because HE may want a sex life, something to which he is entitled, by the way. As to your friend, she’s well-meaning I’m sure, but misguided. You are who you are. You’re not going to change, and you

DEAR ABBY — I have an interesting question for you. Is it sexual harassment if a female supervisor at work calls a male employee “Honey”? Peter in South Carolina DEAR PETER — If that’s all there is to it, I doubt it would be considered sexual harassment. However, if you are the employee being called “Honey,” because it bothers you, tell your employer privately that it makes you uncomfortable and you prefer being addressed by your given name.

SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY: Each row, column and set of 3-by-3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 through 9 without repetition.

THE DAILY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

By Jascha Smilack

ACROSS 1 Spot for an AirPod 4 Chowder morsel 8 Moscow currency 13 Slept like __ 15 Color in a Spanish rainbow 16 Religion of Basra 17 Corn Belt tower 18 Latin I verb 19 Riyadh resident 20 *Fictional road material 23 Bookshelf bracket shape 24 Of a battery terminal 25 Necessity for a game of Ultimate 27 History class assignment 30 Elec. or water 31 __ a clue 34 Slangy pounds 36 Financial help 39 End __ 40 Tomato product 41 Preference indicator 42 Religious prefix 43 Grub 44 Brought about 45 Tenerife, por ejemplo 47 Take the helm 49 Surface layers

52 Clogs from France 56 Neurologist’s order, briefly 57 *Cola flavor 60 Pop-up foul-up 62 Stereotypical family spoiler 63 Pulitzer-winning novelist Jennifer 64 Renaissance painter __ della Francesca 65 Minute quantity 66 Fish __ 67 Family car 68 __-Coburg: former Bavarian duchy 69 Homer’s neighbor DOWN 1 Class requiring little effort 2 Distant and then some 3 Pal of Nancy, in comics 4 Barely advances 5 Big name in vision care 6 Slightly open 7 Recurring theme 8 Go out on a limb 9 Stars and Stripes land: Abbr. 10 *One with noble lineage 11 Crock-Pot server

2/22/17 12 French novelist Zola 14 *Floral papal ornament 21 Brewery kiln 22 Input for a refinery 26 *Chard, by another name 28 Marine shade 29 Portable Mongolian dwellings 31 Simple dwelling 32 Shade of gray 33 Angrily ignoring the first half of the answers to starred clues? 35 Luck, pluck or duck ending 37 Part of D.A.: Abbr. 38 Prefix with con

40 Shade of gray 44 Jacob’s wife before Rachel 46 James with three NBA titles 48 Tunnel out, maybe 49 Many future presidents, as it turned out 50 Like “Stranger Things,” e.g. 51 Metaphorical moments of time 53 Skin, but not bones 54 Kind of evidence 55 Ecclesiastical council 58 Word of amore 59 Fort with billions in bullion 61 “... man __ mouse?”

Tuesday’s Puzzle Solved

2/22/17

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Are you a music fan? Check out Brit Awards 2017 BY KEVIN MCDONOUGH “Major Crimes” (9 p.m., TNT, TV-14) returns for the second “winter” half of its fifth season. This drama, a spinoff of “The Closer,” starring Mary McDonnell, will return for a sixth season. • Now that the Grammys are in our rearview mirror, music fans can take in the Brit Awards 2017 (10 p.m., BBC America, TV-14), featuring performances by Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars, Little Mix, The 1975, Emeli Sande, Skepta and Robbie Williams. Like the Grammys, these awards recognize some of the talent that departed the scene in 2016. The late David Bowie received two posthumous nominations, and Leonard Cohen received one Brit nomination, his first. • “Unsung” (8 p.m., TV One), the addictive musical biography series usually devoted to unheralded acts dwelling somewhere in the “where are they now?” pavilion, devotes a special hour to James Brown, arguably the most influential artist in the history of pop, R&B, soul and funk music. • The word “trainwreck” has taken on comic overtones. Used to describe people and even institutions who run consistently out of control, it was the title of a raucous 2015 Amy Schumer movie. But train wrecks, accidents and rail crossing tragedies kill dozens of people every year.

Tonight’s “NOVA” (9 p.m., PBS, TV-PG, check local listings) explores the physics behind train travel and explains why a lack of safety may be built into current train design. It also looks at new technology being developed to make rail travel safer. Of particular note are Japan’s bullet trains, which offer high-speed commuter travel and sport a perfect safety record. We meet with scientists and visionaries planning for the safer, faster and more reliable trains of tomorrow. • “Nature” (8 p.m., PBS, TVPG, check local listings) rarely showcases a party out of bounds, but tonight’s “Spy in the Wild” segment has a fake monkey-cam capturing the bad behavior of primates en-

gaged in a tipsy brawl over booze at a beachside bar.

TONIGHT’S OTHER HIGHLIGHTS • Tattoos point to multiple possibilities on “Blindspot” (8 p.m., NBC, TV-14). • High school football can be murder on “Lethal Weapon” (8 p.m., Fox, TV-14). • Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke star in the 2001 police drama “Training Day” (8 p.m. and 10:45 p.m., IFC), recently adapted into a CBS series starring Bill Paxton and Justin Cornwell. • Otis’ murder weighs heavily on the salon’s staff on “Star” (9 p.m., Fox, TV-14). • Cam’s clown reputation must be defended on “Modern

Family” (9 p.m., ABC, TV-PG). • Al Pacino and Robin Williams star in the 2002 thriller “Insomnia” (9 p.m., MoreMax). • Sadie strives to keep things platonic on “Doubt” (10 p.m., CBS, TV-14). • Undercover as a hit man on “Chicago P.D.” (10 p.m., NBC, TV14). • The team mulls a risky rescue scenario on “Six” (10 p.m., History, TV-MA). • David has more questions than answers on “Legion” (10 p.m., FX, TV-MA). • Liz looks for her estranged father (Peter Gallagher) on “Man Seeking Woman” (10:30 p.m., FXX, TV-MA).

Noah” (11 p.m., Comedy Central) reflects on the inauguration of Donald Trump * LinManuel Miranda, John Early and The Head and the Heart are on “Conan” (11 p.m., TBS, r) * Kelly Ripa, Billy Gardell and The Lemon Twigs visit “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” (11:35 p.m., CBS) * Jimmy Fallon hosts Ariana Grande and Ken Jeong on “The Tonight Show” (11:35 p.m., NBC) * Terry Crews, Leighton Meester, Dr. Ben Santer and Andres Forero visit “Late Night With Seth Meyers” (12:35 a.m., NBC) * Lionel Richie, Bob Odenkirk, David Oyelowo and Bebe Rexha appear on “The Late Late Show With James Corden” (12:35 a.m., CBS).

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Ceramic pie plate makes cooking it easier BY SARA MOULTON The Associated Press

kind of carbo-licious porridge made from dried and coarsely ground corn, grits are to South-

ern cuisine what potatoes are to Northern cuisine — a deeply satisfying staple. Like squash, tomatoes and deep-pit barbecuing, grits came to define Southern cooking via the cuisines of such Southeast American Indian tribes as the Caddo, Choctaw and Seminole. These days we're starting to see grits all over the country. Often they'll show up at breakfast seasoned with salt and pepper, topped with a pat of butter and nestled alongside some bacon and eggs. They're also a signature element in Shrimp and Grits, one of the succulent delights of the cuisine of coastal

South Carolina and Georgia, which has also migrated widely. But wonderful as they are, grits can be a chore — if not slightly dangerous — to make. I'm speaking of regular old-fashioned stoneground grits, which trump "quick grits" and "instant grits" in both flavor and texture. Made the usual way, old-fashioned grits need to be stirred relentlessly to avoid clumping. You also have to handle with care; this hot mush has a tendency to bubble up and burn the cook. Here's a way to avoid those problems: Make it in the oven instead of on the stovetop. You simply combine the grits and the liquid in a ceramic pie dish (a total of 10 minutes handson time) and pop it into the oven for 45 to 50 minutes. Then stir in the flavorings — sharp cheddar cheese, in this case — and it's done. How easy is that? One note, though. The ceramic pie plate (or any shallow ceramic baking dish with the same capacity) is key. Pie plates made of metal or glass do not conduct heat as effectively.

CHEESE GRITS Start to finish: 1 hour, 5 minutes (10 active) Servings: 4 to 6 2 1/2 cups water combined with either 2 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth or 5 cups water 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into pieces 1 cup grits (not quick-cooking) 1 teaspoon kosher salt 4 ounces grated sharp cheddar Freshly ground black pepper to taste Preheat the oven to 350 F. Stir together the water, butter, grits and salt (if using salted vegetable or chicken stock, do not add salt) in a 1-quart ceramic pie plate set on a rimmed sheet pan. Bake on the middle shelf of the oven, uncovered, for 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and preheat the broiler. Stir in three-quarters of the cheese, stirring until melted. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and put the grits on a shelf in the upper third of the oven, under the broiler, until nicely browned. Serve right away. Nutrition information per serving: 196 calories; 114 calories from fat; 13 g fat (7 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 37 mg cholesterol; 708 mg sodium; 11 g carbohydrate; 1 g fiber; 0 g sugar; 9 g protein.

This sweet potato and carrot dish sparkles with vinaigrette BY MELISSA D’ARABIAN The Associated Press tarchy sides are a mainstay of the classic

American dinner. It's easy to get complacent and rely on a trusty, if unimagina-

tive, rotation of mealtime regulars: rice, potatoes, noodles. The problem with serving essentially the same (white) thing over and over is that we are missing an opportunity to bring a variety of nutrients to the table in that starchy side. And we are missing out on the joys of new colors and flavors if we just stick to the stuff that looks and tastes remarkably similar. So why not add a few colorful and interesting options to the dinner starch repertoire? Sweet potatoes are a great start, but also consider vegetables such as peas, corn, winter squashes (such as spaghetti, acorn and butternut), and sweet root vegetables such as carrots and parsnips as potential stand-ins for rice or pasta. My recipe today brings together both a starch and a root vegetable. Red-fleshed sweet potatoes (often called "yams" in American supermarkets) and carrots are tossed in a soy sauce and rice vinegar marinade, which caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

ROASTED SWEET POTATO AND CARROTS IN QUICK SOY SAUCE MARINADE Start to finish: 40 minutes Servings: 4 1 medium red-flesh sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks (about 2 cups total) 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks (about 2 cups) 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 teaspoons olive oil 1 small shallot, roughly chopped 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced or grated 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Olive oil in a mister Parsley for garnish, optional Heat the oven to 400 degrees F. Bring a large saucepan of water to boil over high heat, and once boiling, add the sweet potato and carrot cubes and cook just for three minutes. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile place the soy sauce, vinegar, olive oil, shallot, garlic, ginger and lemon juice in a blender and blend

until smooth, about 30 seconds. (For chunkier marinade, just mince everything and whisk together.) Pat the sweet potato and carrot dry with a paper towel, and place in bowl. Pour the vinaigrette over the cubes, and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes (or up to a couple of hours), stirring at least once. Cover the bottom of a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Drain the excess marinade and discard. Scatter the sweet potato and carrot cubes across the baking sheet. Mist lightly with olive oil (or use nonstick spray). Roast until tender and the edges show a slight char, about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Sprinkle with parsley and serve. Options: Add red pepper flakes and a teaspoon of maple syrup for a sweet and spicy version or a little sesame oil for a more Asian version, or top with cilantro, chopped green onions and lime juice. Nutrition information per serving: 115 calories; 32 calories from fat; 4 g fat (0 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 0 mg cholesterol; 647 mg sodium; 18 g carbohydrate; 3 g fiber; 6 g sugar; 2 g protein.

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