March 1, 2017 by The Sumter Item

IN SPORTS: A look ahead at the 2017 SHS baseball team

PANORAMA

Spring Concert Community Band will celebrate weather and present annual event a couple of weeks early C1

SERVING SOUTH CAROLINA SINCE OCTOBER 15, 1894

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017

County approves fee agreement with candy maker Fire truck and irrigation system purchases, solar farm also given OK

rizing a special source revenue agreement with Mount Franklin Foods, a candy company headquartered in Texas, during its regular meeting on Tuesday. Mount Franklin Foods South Carolina LLC, which will be located in Live Oak Industrial Park on U.S. 15 South, will still be taxed at 10.5 percent, the normal real estate and personal property assessment for manufacturing fa-

BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com Sumter County Council approved final reading of an ordinance autho-

cilities registered in the county. The tax will be considered a park payment fee, according to the agreement, and the company will receive a 60 percent reduction of that fee for 15 years, beginning this year. Mount Franklin Foods will also receive a grant of no more than $300,000 from the Sumter County infrastructure fund as reimbursement for repairs made to the roof of the project site.

For its part in the agreement, Mount Franklin Foods has committed to creating 225 jobs and investing $10 million dollars in Sumter County during the first five years of operation. County council also approved second reading of an ordinance to amend the 2016-17 budget to purchase a used fire rescue truck from the city for

SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT

Financial processes examined Board members question Baker on procurement audit, capital fund

PHOTOS BY RICK CARPENTER / THE SUMTER ITEM

ABOVE: Sumter School District Trustee Johnny Hilton asks about some budget details that were not provided in a report Monday night at the board’s monthly work session. BELOW: Sumter School District Trustee Ralph W. Canty Sr. makes a point during Monday’s work session as Chief Master Sgt. Cheryl R. Moye listens. MORE INSIDE Read Board vice chairman Karen Michalik’s full statement from Monday’s work session on today’s Opinion Page A9.

Baker said he would track down the cafeteria projects for the two schools and report it back to the board. The item was then tabled until the remainder of the information could be provided by

SEE BOARD, PAGE A7

Cantey given $40,000 surety bond for arson, fraud charges BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com

RICK CARPENTER / THE SUMTER ITEM

Attorneys Shaun Kent, left, and Hank Anderson, right, listen to magistrate judge Larry Blanding’s orders during a bond hearing Tuesday for Ronald Clifton Cantey, middle, who was charged with allegedly burning down his Compass Restaurant and accepting insurance money for a building he didn’t own.

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Reaper group may start arriving in October BY JIM HILLEY jim@theitem.com

BY BRUCE MILLS bruce@theitem.com Two agenda items related to district financial housekeeping showed Sumter School District falling short in tracking its various expenditures, according to information provided to the board and board members’ questions Monday at its monthly work session. On Monday’s agenda, district Superintendent Frank Baker had planned to take questions from board members on a procurement audit conducted in early December that revealed five findings where the district had violated its own purchasing policies’ manual. Before reaching that agenda item, a quarterly capital projects report presented by Baker mistakenly didn’t account for $4 million of $14 million total in the fund and at least two big-ticket renovation projects of cafeterias were not listed. Board member Johnny Hilton brought those two items up in questions to Baker. “Why does this report only show $10 million, when it should be $14 million-plus?” Hilton said. “There is $4 million missing somewhere, and also there is no information on the cafeteria renovations at Alice Drive Elementary and Crosswell. That may be where the $4 million is.” After Hilton’s questions,

SEE COUNTY, PAGE A7

Magistrate Judge Larry Blanding set a total of $40,000 in bonds for Ronald Clifton Cantey, charged with arson for the destruction of Compass Restaurant in Gable on July 26, 2016, during a first appearance hearing at Sumter County Detention Center on Tuesday. Cantey is charged with second degree arson; making a false insurance claim; and defrauding an insurer for the fire that destroyed the local restaurant. Blanding set a surety bond of $25,000 for arson charges; $7,500 for making false insurance claims charges; and $7,500 for defrauding an insurer charges. Cantey will have another hearing at 8:30 a.m. on April 7 at Sumter County Judicial Center and Shaun Kent, Cantey’s attorney, said his client has re-

quested a preliminary hearing. Ken Bell, public information officer for the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, said Cantey insured the building for $500,000; the contents for $200,000; and the loss of business for $100,000. After the fire, Cantey collected for damage to the building and contents, a total of $700,000. However, when Cantey purchased Compass Restaurant he bought the business and the contents, not the building or the land. Bell said investigators have requested a copy of the back of the checks, made out to Cantey and the building owner, to see who signed them. Mary Brigman, a member of the Coker family that owns the land and building, said her family did not know about the insurance policy Cantey had

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Information: 774-1200 Advertising: 774-1246 Classifieds: 774-1234 Delivery: 774-1258 News and Sports: 774-1226

Abraham McCray Mattie S. Hurst Oliver McCoy Jr. Rutley Fox Sr. Paulette Bryant Priscilla Russ

Sumter’s supportive community, pleasant climate and access to both the mountains and the coast played a factor in Shaw Air Force Base being chosen as the preferred site for the MQ-9 Reaper group program, said base Commander Col. Daniel Lasica at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Sumter Sunrise Tuesday morning. Lasica said the airmen who operate the remotelypiloted program are currently staLASICA tioned as bases such as Creech AFB near Las Vegas, and Holloman AFB near Alamogordo, New Mexico. “Hot, brown, desert,” he described those bases. He said those pilots are under a lot of stress. “It’s shift work,” he said. “They hit on the red button killing bad guys, then they go home and hug their kids.” Lasica said the Air Force wants to reward those pilots by moving them to a more livable location rather than leaving them out in remote stretches of desert. “Somewhere green, with awesome community support, centrally located, and close to mountains and beach,” he said. Sumter was named the preferred location partly because of those attributes, he said. The MQ-9 Raptor is an unmanned aircraft that can be piloted from 10,000 miles away, Lasica said. “They’re pretty big, bigger than an F-16 wingspan,” he said. “They can carry as much munitions.” They are slow to get where they are going, he said, but once there can stay overhead much longer than the F-16. Shaw is now the preferred location for three groups, he said, including about 400 airmen. The Reaper aircraft will likely be deployed somewhere else, and only the pilots and support personnel will be in Sumter, he said, though it is still a possibility some of the Reapers could be based here. Even without the aircraft, an environment assessment

SEE CANTEY, PAGE A7

SEE LASICA, PAGE A7

WEATHER, A10

INSIDE

SUNNY AND BREEZY

3 SECTIONS, 20 PAGES VOL. 122, NO. 98

Very warm today with plenty of sunshine and stiff breezes; tonight, gusty and warm, storms possible. HIGH 86, LOW 57

Classifieds B6 Comics C2 Food C4

Opinion A9 Television C3

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017

THE SUMTER ITEM

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

Historical Society talks local schools Washington Street School Grounds and Confederate Monument are pictured on a vintage postcard. John Duffie will present a program titled “The Miracle on Washington Street” at Sunday’s meeting of the Sumter County Historical Society.

FROM STAFF REPORTS

ADRIENNE SARVIS / THE SUMTER ITEM

Lt. Rhonda Pyle of Sumter County Emergency Medical Services receives a certificate of recognition from Sumter County Council Chairman James McCain during the council’s meeting on Feb. 14.

Lt. Pyle named EMT of the Year BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com Being an employee who is a team player and leads by example are just a couple of the reasons Lt. Rhonda Pyle of Sumter County Emergency Medical Services was named the 2016 American Legion Emergency Medical Technician of the Year. She’s dedicated to the profession and improving the work of the department, EMS director Bobby Hingst said. That’s all shown through her daily work ethic, he said. Pyle has seven staff members under her supervision, and all of them have nothing but positive things to say about her, Hingst said. She will do any job that needs to be done no matter her position, he said. “She leads from the front,” he said. Pyle has an infectious, positive attitude that gives others something to strive toward, Hingst said. He said Pyle has also received compliments from patients who were in her care. And during Hurricane Matthew in 2016, Pyle spent numerous hours helping manage EMS operations, Hingst said. “She has an upbeat spirit no matter what is going on,” he said. “She’s a model employee.” Pyle said she started working with the EMS department in 2009 as an EMT because she needed a job to take care of her family. Although she started the job because of a need for money, Pyle quickly began to love it. It felt good to be able to accomplish something every day, she said. Pyle said it was also rewarding preparing for the job by going back to school. Many calls are for colds or the flu, but then there are calls where someone has a heart attack or stroke, she said. She said those calls really make the job worthwhile because she has to work to find out how to assist the patient. “It’s been a blessing,” Pyle said about working with Sumter County EMS. She said knowing that she makes a difference makes her want to continue with her career for an additional 20 years. Pyle was also named Paramedic of the Year during the EMS department’s annual banquet earlier this year. She said she was so surprised when she was recognized by her peers that she cried because the award showed that others appreciated her efforts. Although her real family lives in Idaho, Pyle said the people at the department have become her Sumter family. It feels good to have people close by who feel that way, she said.

The Sumter School District was formed on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 1888. In 1889, at the age of 25, John B. Duffie was selected as the first superintendent of Sumter School District. During his administration, a graded school was opened in Sumter for the first time. His grandson, John Duffie, will present a program on his grandfather and “The Miracle on Washington Street” at Sunday’s meeting of the Sumter County Historical Society. According to his grandson, John B. Duffie was instrumental in opening a graded school on Washington Street with an enrollment of about 300 students. This marked the begin-

SUMTER ITEM FILE PHOTO

ning of Sumter’s public education system. John Duffie will give the complete story of the school and his grandfather’s contributions to Sumter schools during the meeting, which will begin at 3 p.m. at the Sumter County Museum, 122 N. Washington St., in the block adjacent to what is now known as Monument Square, where Washington, Central and Hampton schools stood for years.

The Sumter County Historical Society meets monthly, September through May. The public is invited to attend most meetings, which comprise special presentations by guests and members that add to the history of Sumter County. New members are welcome at any time. For more information call Ray Thompson at (803) 968-6032 or email ret474747@ gmail.com, or call Sumter County Museum at (803) 775-0908.

Sounds of Inspiration celebrate Black History Month

PHOTO PROVIDED

Central Carolina Technical College’s Sounds of Inspiration organization held its Black History Celebration program on Main Campus on Thursday. Lee Central High School Choir was part of the program as well as motivational speakers from the community and interpretive praise dancing from New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

Consortium names 36 Women of Excellence BY IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com The 9th Annual Celebration of Women of Excellence will be held at 11:45 a.m. on Saturday in the Parish Hall, Church of the Holy Comforter, 213 N. Main St. The Sumter Social Justice Consortium started the event in 2009 shortly after its inception in 2007 to honor women for their accomplishments in the areas of education, religion and community service. The nonprofit organization has been working with other social justice organizations in the Lowcountry to provide water systems and basic necessities for the village of Wome, Togo, South Africa. Most recently, the nonprofit spearheaded the Dry Shoes fund that partnered with Healthcare Financial Management Association to provide shoes for schoolchildren affected by the 1,000-year historic flooding in October 2015. With the association of the school district and other agencies,

hundreds of shoes were provided in the surrounding counties. The idea for Women of Excellence came about, said Chuck Wilson, chairman of the Consortium, because he felt at the time there was a tendency for women to be overlooked in the workplace and in public service. “We thought it was past time for women in the community to be brought to the forefront for the things that they had done,” he said. “This year’s honorees, like those before them, are a very diverse group we are proud to add to the WOE roster.” Keynote speaker for the celebration will be State Sen. Thomas McElveen, D-Sumter. The Class of 2017 Women of Excellence comprises Shirley Green, Sheila Stuckey, Julia Sims Stuckey, Regina Owens, Mary Jane Ragins, Tracey Gadson Johnson, Sharon Jones, Ida Ragins, Kathryn Watson McElveen, Becca Monroe-Hardy, Stephanie B. Scott, Janet Smith

Clayton, Katherine R. Howard, Barbara Prince Lash, Phyllis Haskins, Lisa Sullivan Rosdail, Kelly E. Goins, Wilhelmenia Dennis Scott, Lillian Hadley-Small, Gloria J. Prescott, Gail Kyles, Delores Griffith,. Linda D. Hammett, Linda Clark, Shiron Johnson, Patricia Pringle, Lucille McQuilla, Tonjo C. Lonon, Erika Muldrow, Ezestra McFadden, Ollie Canty, Latisha BillieGeter, Cynthia Gonazalez, Courtney D. Colleton, Alberta Sierra Neal and Cheryl McKellar. Saturday’s luncheon and program are open to the public for a donation of $35; reservations are encouraged by emailing Womenofexcellence2014@yahoo.com or contacting any of the honorees. There will be a few seats available on the day of the event. Tickets may be obtained from any of the honorees, picked up at Universal Benefits Inc., 110 E. Liberty St. from Brenda Land or by reserving them via email towomenofexcellence2014@yahoo.com no later than Friday afternoon.

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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Alisha’s photo is part of The Sumter Item’s “Every Picture Tells A Story” contest. Enter online at www.theitem.com for a chance to win $100 each month. Shed light on an important issue in Sumter; share a photo of an interesting person, place or event; show us where you’ve been in the world; or maybe just share an old photo. It’s anything you want it to be, so go for it and have fun. Tell us a story.

Firefighters respond to two fires on Saturday BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com Sumter firefighters responded to two dwelling fires on Saturday afternoon. The first fire occurred at a duplex at 43 Harry Ave. The call came in at 12:54 p.m. and firefighters arrived on scene at 12:56 p.m. to see fire coming from the back door of the apartment and smoke pushing from the eaves of the structure. According to the incident report, the fire started from an unattended pot on the stove. The blaze was contained to the kitchen, which was entirely damaged. The rest of the apartment sustained extensive heat and smoke damage and an adjacent apartment had smoke damage inside, states the report. No injuries were reported. It took firefighters about 21 minutes to get the fire under control. There was approximately $30,000 in damage to the structure and about $70,000 of the structure was saved. Approximately $3,000 in con-

tents were saved and $3,000 in contents were lost. Also on Saturday, firefighters received a call about a mobile home fire at 6115 Skinner Road, Gable, at 2:26 p.m. There was heavy fire coming from the side of the mobile home and a portion of the yard was also on fire when firefighters arrived on scene at 2:37 p.m., according to the incident report. The fire was under control by 3:07 p.m. The fire spread from the yard of another property in the 6100 block of Skinner Road after the occupant set a bag of charcoal on fire and went inside the residence, states the report. Two mobile homes on either side of the property at 6115 Skinner Road were threatened by the blaze. No other structures were damaged and no injuries were reported. Approximately $30,000 in damage was caused to the residence while $15,000 of the structure was saved. About $10,000 in contents were lost and $2,500 in contents were saved.

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See breathtaking batiks, ceramic pieces at gallery BY JANE G. COLLINS Special to The Sumter Item

A REVIEW

batik process to communicate The first inclination on color and design. For the walking into Sumter County most part, her batiks reflect a Gallery of Art’s latest exhibrespect for earth-like tones, its is simply to say “Wow!” often softly muted or inteArtist Mary Edna Fraser’s grated to form an overall large batik panels are exquisitely breathtaking, and if the emotional impression. Just measure of a teacher’s skill is studying the various types of silk fabrics she uses is a reveevidenced in the work of the lation. students, artist/instructor Her latest challenge, oil Virginia Scotchie must be one paintings, further illustrates of the best in the world. her penchant for landscape Fraser’s “Lowcountry” and color, especially in the combines her eye and enthuCarolinas. “Movement,” a siasm for environmental concomposition extremely comcerns and the forces of napatible with her batik “Flying ture with the ability to transSouth” and “Live Oak Path,” late her aerial photographs, continues to display her taken from an old 1946 Ersense of color. “High Tide” coupe 415C piloted by her and “Hobcaw Nocturne” inbrother, into massive, colortroduce strong, vivid colors ful depictions of the scenery used to crebelow. Her ate an inbatik protensity of cess skillfulexperience. ly turns the In her complex gallery process of talk, Fraser waxing and stressed dyeing into that cur“the inquisirently she tiveness of a primarily fleeting mofocuses on ment” to doing large create visucommisal poetry sioned and reveal pieces and “subtle enwants to vironmental focus on oil messages.” painting, In tune with Virginia Scotchie says her ceramic work is intended “ ... to trigger one to especially geology, tolook closer and find beauty and inon a bigger pography, trigue in the humble, ordinary and “gallery” maps, familiar objects that surround us.” scale, but charts and she resatellite im- She shares her exhibit space with several of her students. mains comages, she mitted to adds color using her art to stress the as an emotional rather than importance of the earth’s realistic response and uses preservation. some pieces like the outline Ceramic artist Scotchie’s of Kiawah to hopefully prework in itself in interesting serve the land’s integrity. and involving, often combinCurator Gardner “Cole” Miller manages to exhibit the ing unexpected shapes. In her artistic statement she stresspieces in a smooth arrangees that “I do not wish for this ment of colors, designs, patwork to be named or labeled terns and complementary (as … but to trigger one to look well as complimentary) relacloser and find beauty and intionships, strengthening the trigue in the humble, ordioverall impression of the nary and familiar objects that unity of Fraser’s artistic surround us.” The variety of voice and vision. For examher pieces substantiates that ple, three large hanging pandesire. els speak clearly of her skill Scotchie’s generosity in and observation. The center, sharing her art space with “Moonrise” (105 by 44 inches), dramatically captures the her students adds an immeasurable dimension to the moon on the horizon and the show. dramatic interplay of water Alexandra Stasko’s ceraand reflection. The intricate maic figure “Prunus Serrulaprocess which tends to break down the fabric after four dye ta,” Japanese Cherry Blossom, voices her concern for vats manipulates a series of the relationship between man tonal changes — white, blue, and ecology. turquoise and purple — creIn her words, “my work is ating a composition that gensomewhat journalistic,” reerates a sense of tranquility. flecting her long connection “Self Portrait” includes a between being in tune with piece of land where she and nature and her “concern for her husband live. “Captain Sam’s Spit” recreates the flow the natural world.” Her large male figure combines images of design and color, and of life, “flora … and decompo“Ashepoo” and “Flying sition.” North” are wonderful blends A description of her prowith the oil paintings nearby. cess is available in the galSomewhat as an aside, her lery notes, but the statue it“Homage to William Morris self is dramatically exquiI,” London wallpaper designsite, especially the sole of er in the 1860s, further disthe left foot. Another figure, plays her ability to use the

“Minoan Woman,” by Carl Craighead, recreates the atmosphere of the “Santorini frescoes.” Again, the gallery notes explain the historical significance, while Craighead’s female form captures the lifelike dainty woman, the details of her body and missing leg, the pale colors of her garments and the historical pattern in the seat. Earle Smith’s stoneware, clay vase “Straight Line,” encourages the eye to find the line, purposefully created to suggest a shadow. “Shelf of Life,” a collection of shapes and forms by Jamie Berry, uses found objects, wood, clay and paper to focus on relationships of shape, form and interest. Bri Kinard’s “Solicitude,” a massive mobile-like structure of hanging ceramic, copper, hooks and metal, gains even more emphasis from the shapes scrolled almost shadow-like behind it. Each “student” included offers an impressive commentary on the artist as a creator and explorer, a combination of mental and manual dexterity. See the works of Mary Edna Fraser and Virginia Scotchie and her students at Sumter County Gallery of Art, 200 Hasell St., from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday through April 21. Admission is free. Call (803) 775-0543 for more information.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Mary Edna Fraser’s batik titled “Romains Refuge” is described as “exquisitely breathtaking” by the writer. Her work and that of ceramicist Virginia Scotchie can be seen at Sumter County Gallery of Art through April 21.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITIZENS PARTICIPATION PLAN/NEEDS ASSESSMENT Communi es an cipa ng par cipa on in the State of South Carolina’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, Economic Development Program, and the Federal HUD HOME Program must provide for par cipa on of their ci zens in the planning and implementa on of CDBG, Economic Development, and HUD HOME-funded projects, in accordance with Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended through 1987. Therefore, a Ci zens Par cipa on Plan has been developed for Sumter County for the purpose of providing the ci zens of this locality with a wri en, detailed plan for their par cipa on in the planning and implementa on of community and economic development projects which may involve CDBG and HOME funds. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, March 9, 2017 at 6:00 p.m., the Santee-Lynches Regional Council of Governments, on behalf of Sumter County, will hold a Public Hearing at the Santee-Lynches RCOG Oﬃce, 2525 Corporate Way, Suite 200, Sumter, SC. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to review and solicit public comment on the afore-men oned Ci zens Par cipa on Plan, and to solicit public input on community needs and priori es for housing, public facili es, economic development, water/sewer facili es, public safety components and job crea on with a Needs Assessment Survey. The Ci zen Par cipa on Plan is available for review at the Sumter County Administra on Building, 13 East Canal Street, Sumter, S.C. and the Santee-Lynches RCOG Oﬃce, 2525 Corporate Way, Suite 200, Sumter, SC between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Persons with ques ons or comments concerning the Public Hearing or the Ci zens Par cipa on Plan may contact Jenna Brown, Economic and Community Sustainability, Santee-Lynches RCOG, (803) 774-1379. Sumter County does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, religion, sex, na onal origin, familial status or disability in the admission of, access to, or treatment regarding employment in its federally assisted programs or ac vi es. Lorraine W. Dennis, Sumter County, has been designated to coordinate compliance with the non-discrimina on requirements contained in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s HUD regula ons.

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Trump takes on entrenched practice of Washington leaks NEW YORK (AP) — When White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer wanted to crack down on leaks last week, he collected his aides’ cell phones to check for communication with reporters. The crackdown quickly leaked. Spicer’s losing round in Washington’s perpetual game of information whack-a-mole was hardly a surprise. In trying to plug leaks from anonymous sources, President Trump and his aides are going after one of the most entrenched practices in Washington politics and journalism, an exercise that has exposed corruption, fueled scandals and spread gossip for decades. But the practice has created several headaches for the new president, leading Trump, just weeks into his presidency, to publicly vow to try to punish “low-life leakers” in his own administration. “Let their name be put out there,’ Trump said before the Conservative Political Action Conference on Friday, accusing reporters of making up anonymous sources and stories. He declared reporters shouldn’t be allowed to use

sources “unless they use somebody’s name.” “A source says that Donald Trump is a horrible, horrible human being.’ Let ’em say it to my face.” But Trump’s administration has not been practicing what the boss preached. Despite the president’s anger about unnamed sources, White House budget officials insisted on anonymity Monday as they outlined details of Trump’s spending plans to reporters on a conference call. The budget officials ignored requests to put the briefing on the record. Several anonymously sourced stories have driven Trump coverage: revelations that former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn had lied about conversations with Russians about sanctions; details of private phone calls Trump had with leaders of Australia and Mexico; and draft memos of policy plans for actions like rounding up undocumented aliens. Trump isn’t the first president to be frustrated by leaks. From the release of the Pentagon Papers on Vietnam policy, the Watergate scandal that

brought down President Nixon to Edward Snowden’s data dump of national security files, American history is filled with stories of government misconduct that came to light through information passed privately into the hands of journalists. “Leaking is gigantically important in modern presidential coverage and Washington history,” said Frank Sesno, a former CNN Washington bureau chief and now a journalism professor at George Washington University. Sources have countless reasons for leaking, Sesno said. Maybe they’re raising a trial balloon, or shooting one down. Maybe they don’t like a policy being considered or want to report wrongdoing. Maybe they just want to talk back to the boss. Journalists prefer sources go on the record; it lends more credibility to the stories. But on important areas of national security, it’s understandable when people insist upon anonymity, said Dean Baquet, executive editor of The New York Times, on CNN’s “Reliable Sources” Sunday.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

White House press secretary Sean Spicer speaks during a daily press briefing at the White House on Tuesday in Washington. When Spicer wanted to crack down on leaks last week, he collected his aides’ cell phones to check for communication with reporters. The crackdown quickly leaked. Read more of the story at www.theitem.com.

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AP-NORC Poll: U.S. teens disillusioned, divided by politics BY GILLIAN FLACCUS The Associated Press PORTLAND, Ore. — In the days after President Trump’s election, thousands of teenagers across the nation walked out of class in protest. Others rallied to his defense. It was an unusual show of political engagement from future voters who may alter America’s political landscape in 2020 — or even in next year’s midterm elections. Now, a new survey of children ages 13 to 17 conducted by The Associated PressNORC Center for Public Affairs Research, with the permission of their parents, finds that America’s teens are almost as politically disillusioned and pessimistic about the nation’s divisions as their parents. The difference? They aren’t quite as quick to write off the future. Eight in 10 feel that Americans are divided when it comes to the nation’s most important values and 6 in 10 say the country is headed in the wrong direction. Nyles Adams, a 14-year-old from New York City, was in kindergarten when Barack Obama was sworn in as the nation’s first black president. Adams, the grandson of Trinidadian immigrants, remembers watching the inauguration on TV and talking with his mother about the particu-

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Portland, Oregon, public school students walk out of schools and converge on Pioneer Courthouse Square in November 2016 for a protest against the results of 2016’s presidential election. Read the full story at www.theitem.com. lar significance of Obama’s election for his black immigrant family. Now, with Trump as president, he feels America’s best days are behind it, and the nation will be worse off in 40 years. Yet like 57 percent of his peers, he is still optimistic about the opportunity to achieve the American Dream. “Sometimes it does get you down, but I try not to focus on it too much because I see myself as someone who despite all the odds that are against me, I’m still going to prevail,”

he said. That youthful optimism is hard to crush. While rates vary by race, 56 percent of all teens surveyed believe America’s best days are ahead, compared with the 52 percent of adults in an AP-NORC poll conducted in June 2016 who said the nation’s best days are behind it. But like adults, the poll reveals deep divisions along familiar lines. Just a quarter of teens say they have a lot in common with people of different political views. Three in four al-

ready have a party preference, including 29 percent who say they’ll be Democrats, 23 percent Republicans and 24 percent independent or another party. Less than one-third have a favorable impression of Trump, but only slightly

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COUNTY FROM PAGE A1 $25,000 as well as a used irrigation system previously used in Myrtle Beach for $88,000. Sumter County Administrator Gary Mixon said the fire truck comes equipped with emergency equipment and will be assigned to Dabbs Rural Fire Station to assist with incidents on Interstate 95. The cost for the irrigation system, intended for the county’s Crystal Lakes Golf Course adjacent to Dillon Park, includes installation, he said. Also, council approved first reading of an ordinance to authorize the option and sale of the county spec building on North Wise Drive, title only, to a prospective economic development company called Project Volcano. Sumter County Attorney Johnathan Bryan said more details about the option and sale will be included in the ordinance by second reading. He said economic incentives will be also be created in a separate ordinance for the potential venture. In other news: • Council approved final reading of an ordinance to amend the county zoning and development standards ordinance to permit solar energy systems as conditional uses in light-industrial warehouse, heavy industrial, agricultural conservation, conservation preservation and agricultural conservation districts; • Assistant County Administrator Lorraine WashingtonDennis introduced the new Sumter County Communications Coordinator Joe Perry. She said the position is new but no new money is associated with the position. This is a reclassification of a vacant position, she said; and • Sumter County Council Chairman James McCain pinned council’s newest member, Christopher Sumpter, with a county council pin. The pins are usually presented during council’s swearing in but McCain said Sumpter’s pin was not ready at that time.

RICK CARPENTER / THE SUMTER ITEM

Sumter School District Superintendent Frank Baker, right, addresses procurement audit questions raised by board trustee Johnny Hilton, left, during Monday’s meeting at the school district office.

BOARD FROM PAGE A1 the superintendent. In regards to the procurement audit — which was conducted by independent accountant Robin Poston — the written list of violations by district administration originally included two sole source procurements that lacked adequate documentation for justification. Baker updated the board Monday that Poston, after further review, had removed one of the two sole source purchase orders in question from her original findings and judged it in compliance. Other findings of purchasing violations included inappropriately using “emergency procurement” procedures for purchases that should have not considered emergencies, not consistently using purchase orders for small purchases, not attaching quote documentation to

purchase orders and splitting purchase orders for individual schools when they should have been combined and competitive bids solicited. To the district’s credit, it was its first procurement audit since consolidation in 2011. According to Baker and others, the consolidated district had a two-year grace period before a procurement audit was necessary. School districts are required to have the audit of purchase processes at least once every three years by state law. The procurement audit completed in December, represented the three-year period of 2013-16. In regards to the various findings, Baker said corrective actions have been put in place. “All corrective actions have been put in place for all the various findings,” Baker said. Even before the audit was

CANTEY FROM PAGE A1 for the property. Criminal and arson investigator Randall Stewart for the sheriff’s office said the Coker family filed a civil suit against Cantey in 2014 after he failed to pay rent for multiple months. Cantey was actually evicted from the

completed, the district had initiated some new policies on items, such as purchase orders. “As of July 2016, we are not doing anything without a P.O.,” Baker said. “Now, that is creating some heartburn for a lot of folks because it puts the responsibility back on the originator of the P.O., and the bulk of our P.O.’s are going to come from the schools.” Baker said that means principals need to do a better job managing that process. In case of emergency purchases by schools, there is now new verification documentation required that must be completed. To gain perspective on purchase-order volume for the district, Baker said in the 2013-14 school year the district totaled 16,420 purchase orders and 18,078 P.O.’s in 2015-16. All board members had questions for Baker on the

property but the land owner and Cantey worked out an agreement to allow him to continue operating the restaurant, he said. Stewart said accelerant was found at multiple spots on the property. Arson was confirmed by the time the sun rose on July 27, he said. Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis said Cantey had been a person of interest since the start of the investigation.

LASICA FROM PAGE A1 that takes about six months must still be completed. “There is a lot of pre-planning is going on,” he said, “Everything that’s legal.” The Air Force secretary will make a final recommendation in August or September, Lasica said “In October, the first of the airmen will be phasing in (to Shaw),” he said. In a few years, 434 airmen along with a projected two dependents each, will be in the community. “It will be a great impact for the community,” he said, “for businesses, for schools, for churches.” He said the Reaper group would be a mission partner at

Shaw, much like the Third Army and AFCENT. “They will report back to Creech AFB,” he said. He said that by February 2018, the Air Force wants one combat line up and running out of Shaw controlling a wing of MQ9 Raptors, and by February 2019 the Air Force wants three lines up and running. “Will keep you in the loop,” he said. Lasica said it is too early to tell if Shaw will be a location for training battalion airmen training site, and that there are no current plans to base F-35s at Shaw. He also said Shaw should not be in danger of any upcoming rounds of base closings.

Investigators got probable cause to arrest Cantey after technology and witnesses, people in the area and former employees, placed him at the scene minutes before the fire started, he said. Dennis said Cantey also made many contradicting statements during the investigation. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of other arrests, he said.

“It’s no mistake to keep Shaw open,” he said. “We can get to Europe quick, Africa quick, and the Middle East quick.” He predicted Shaw AFB will still be here well into the future. “Fifty, 100, even 200 years down the road,” he said. “It’s a strategic location with an awesome local community.”

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procurement audit, with the most questions coming from Hilton and the Rev. Ralph Canty. Hilton requested the district get more detailed information from the auditor on emergency procurements to define problems in this area better and also better communication between the district’s procurement officer, principals and department heads. In response to questions from Canty and board Chairman the Rev. Daryl McGhaney, Baker said the district office has a new person working in procurement to hold principals more accountable. Poston, the auditor — of Poston, of Harper, Poston & Moree of Georgetown — also conducted the district’s annual audit of financial statements last fall that showed the district overspent by $6.2 million in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2016.

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Doctors warn against teen pot use amid looser marijuana laws WHO’S USING

BY LINDSEY TANNER AP Medical Writer CHICAGO — An influential doctors group is beefing up warnings about marijuana’s potential harms for teens amid increasingly lax laws and attitudes on pot use. Many parents use the drug and think it’s OK for their kids, but “we would rather not mess around with the developing brain,” said Dr. Seth Ammerman. The advice comes in a new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics, published Monday in Pediatrics. The group opposes medical and recreational marijuana use for kids. It says emphasizing that message is important because most states have legalized medical use for adults, and many have decriminalized or legalized adults’ recreational use. Those trends have led parents to increasingly ask doctors about kids’ use, said Ammerman, a Stanford University pediatrics professor who co-wrote the report. “Parents will say, ‘I use it moderately and I’m fine with it, so it’s really benign and not a problem if my kid uses it,’” he said. Doctors need to know how to respond to that thinking, and parents and teens need to know the risks, Ammerman said.

AP FILE PHOTO

On Monday, the American Academy of Pediatrics highlighted warnings about marijuana’s potential harms for teens amid increasingly lax laws and attitudes on pot use. drug. Some studies suggest that teens who use marijuana at least 10 times a month develop changes in brain regions affecting memory and the ability to plan. Some changes may be permanent, the report says. Frequent use starting in the early teen years may lower IQ scores, and some studies have shown that starting marijuana use at a young age is more likely to lead to addiction than starting in adulthood. Not all teen users develop these problems and some may be more vulnerable because of genetics or other factors.

POTENTIAL HARMS

their kids and should keep all marijuana products stored out of kids’ sight, the academy says. Some young children who accidentally swallowed their parents’ pot-containing cookies or drinks have landed in the emergency room for mostly minor symptoms although some developed breathing problems.

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dren and teens is lacking, although some studies have suggested it may benefit kids with hard-to-treat seizures. The report says other potential benefits, doses and effects are mostly unknown. Recreational use is illegal for those under age 21 even in states that allow adult use. Parents should avoid using marijuana in front of

Government data show that almost 40 percent of U.S. high school students have tried marijuana, about 20 percent are current users and close to 10 percent first tried it before age 13. Use has increased in recent years among those aged 18 and older but not among young teens. Still, kids aged 12 to 17 increasingly think that marijuana use is not harmful. Dr. Sheryl Ryan, a Yale University pediatrics professor and lead author of the academy report, said marijuana “is the drug of choice” for many of her teen patients in New Haven, Connecticut. Some think daily use is safe, noting that their parents or grandparents smoked pot in college and turned out OK. But today’s marijuana is much more potent and potentially more risky, Ryan said.

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

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 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

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NOTABLE & QUOTABLE

S.C. tourism outweighs offshore oil exploration The Charleston Post and Courier outlines the “Numbers against offshore oil” for South Carolina. The numbers speak for themselves. Tourists spent more than $20 billion in South Carolina in 2015, setting a record high for the state. That number tops the previous year by nearly a billion dollars. In 2014, tourism supported one of every 10 jobs in South Carolina. It generated well over $1 billion in direct tax revenue for the state and local governments. And tourism revenue has increased almost without exception every year for nearly three decades. There are no signs of that trend slowing, much less reversing itself. But imagine the devastation of the South Carolina economy if those tourism dollars suddenly went somewhere else. Imagine if the state’s coastal communities lost their summer visitors, if fishermen were finally forced completely out of business, or if the natural environment of the coastline was forever damaged. That’s the very real possibility that some seem willing to trade for oil and natural gas drilling off the South Carolina coast. But again, it’s not just about hypotheticals. It’s about the numbers. Estimates from the American Petroleum Institute, an oil and gas lobbying group, put the 20-year economic impact of drilling offshore of South Carolina at just $2.7 billion. Again, that’s $2.7 billion over 20 years. In other words, oil and gas might generate less than 1 percent of the economic impact that tourism has on South Carolina’s economy. And a single major spill would risk the tourism industry’s vitality for years. Even exploration using seismic testing risks marine wildlife, particularly marine mammals who can become disoriented by the loud blasts. It’s not worth it. Seismic testing was stopped offshore of South Carolina just about a month ago, but exploration companies already are gearing up to try again. So conservation groups are preparing to fight back. Not surprisingly, every coastal government in South Carolina has come out against opening the state’s waters to offshore drilling. So have Reps. Mark Sanford, R-S.C., Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., and Tom Rice, R-S.C. So did Henry McMaster when he was lieutenant governor. Given the cold, hard numbers it’s hard to imagine that the state’s other leaders in Columbia and Washington would still support such a reckless plan. Gov. McMaster, in particular, has the opportunity to differentiate himself from his predecessor, Gov. Nikki Haley, by reasserting his opposition to offshore drilling and oil exploration in S.C. waters. Throughout his career as S.C. attorney general and lieutenant governor, Mr. McMaster strongly supported environmental protections. He should continue to do so as governor. Sens. Tim Scott, R-S.C., and Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., should also stand up against any future effort to open up Atlantic waters to oil and gas drilling. It just doesn’t make sense to risk $20 billion a year and the state’s largest economic sector for an industry that might at best bring in a mere fraction of that over the next two decades. ••• In “How Trump Can Hit 3 Percent Growth — Maybe,” economist Edward Lazear writes in The Wall Street Journal, “Overhaul the tax code, encourage investment and put Americans back to work. Then pray for luck.” Generally, White House forecasts are prepared by highly capable career professionals at the Council of Economic Advisers, the agency I led from 2006-09. How is it possible for serious forecasters to convert 2 percent growth into the administration’s rosier picture of better than 3 percent? The answer is threefold: Productivity growth must return to its long-term average or better; slowing labor growth caused by an aging population must be offset; and tax cuts that favor investment must have the predicted positive effects. The number of Americans 65 and over is expected to increase by 15 million between 2020 and 2030. Given longer life expectancies, it is important to encourage them to stay in the workforce. Changing the structure of Social Security benefits to reward later retirement could help. Beyond that, the Trump administration believes that it can increase labor demand by eliminating burdensome regulations on business. The White House is already moving in this direction. Increasing immigration could enhance labor hours, but that seems counter to administration policy. A return to historical gains in productivity, coupled with policies that completely offset slower labor growth, would bring the economy back to the norm of 3 percent GDP growth. It’s unlikely, but possible with some luck on the technology front and if augmented by investment-friendly tax policy. These are big ifs. They require an active president, an active Congress and some good fortune. But Mr. Trump seems willing to give it his best shot. Notable & Quotable is compiled by Graham Osteen. Contact him at graham@theitem.com.

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.

Undermining academic achievement

.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement, “The president’s decision to ask Betsy DeVos to run the Department of Education should offend every single American man, woman, and child who has benefitted from the public education system in this country.” Expressing similar sentiments, Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Cedric Richmond said, “I expect that Mrs. DeVos will have an incredibly harmful impact on public education and on black communities nationwide.” Those and many other criticisms of Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos could be dismissed as simply political posturing if we did not have an educational system that is mostly mediocre and is in advanced decay for most black students. According to The Nation’s Report Card, only 37 percent of 12th-graders were proficient in reading in 2015, and just 25 percent were proficient in math (https://www.nationsreportcard.gov). For black students, achievement levels were a disgrace. Nationally, 17 percent of black students scored proficient in reading, and 7 percent scored proficient in math. In some cities, such as Detroit, black academic proficiency is worse; among eighth-graders, only 4 percent were proficient in math, and only 7 percent were proficient in reading. The nation’s high-school graduation rate rose again in the 2014-15 school year, reaching a record high as more than 83 percent of students earned a diploma on time. Educators see this as some kind of achievement and congratulate themselves. The tragedy is that

COMMENTARY high-school graduation has little relevance to achievement. In 2014-15, graduation rates at District of ColumWalter bia Public Williams Schools, just as they did nationally, climbed to an all-time high. At H.D. Woodson High School, 76 percent of students graduated on time; however, just 1 percent met math standards on national standardized tests linked to the Common Core academic standards. Just 4 percent met the reading standards. The low black academic achievement is not restricted to high-school graduates of D.C. schools. The average black high-school graduate has the academic achievement level of a white seventh- or eighthgrader. As such, it stands as unambiguous evidence that high schools confer diplomas attesting that students can read, write and compute at a 12th-grade level when in fact they cannot. That means they have received fraudulent highschool diplomas. There are many factors that affect education that educators cannot control. But they have total control over the issuance of a diploma. Educators often complain that there’s not enough money. Census Bureau data show that as early as 2009-10, Washington, D.C., spent $29,409 per pupil (http://tinyurl.com/gp4ht8k). Starker proof that there’s little relationship between spending and academic proficiency is in the case of Detroit’s public schools. In 2009-10, the nation’s

elementary and secondary public school systems spent an average of $10,615 per pupil. According to the Census Bureau, Detroit schools spent $12,801 per pupil. The Mackinac Center for Public Policy claims that Detroit actually spent $15,570 per pupil that year. There’s not much payoff for education dollars. The National Institute for Literacy found that 47 percent of the city’s adults are “functionally illiterate.” The Nation’s Report Card reports that Detroit students score the lowest among the nation’s big-city schools, and Washington is not far behind. I’d ask Sen. Schumer how it would be possible for Secretary of Education DeVos to make education any worse than it is for many Americans. I’d suggest to Rep. Richmond that if the grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan were the secretary of education and wanted to sabotage black academic achievement, he couldn’t find a better method for doing so than keeping our public school system as it is. Many black politicians and educators would never have their own children attend the rotten, dangerous schools that are so much a part of our big cities. Many black parents, captured by these schools, would like to get their children out. But that’s not in the interest of the education establishment, which wants a monopoly on education. Black politicians and academics are the establishment’s facilitators. That explains their hostility to Betsy DeVos. She would like to give more parents a choice. Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University. © 2017 creators.com

Board member issues statement Statement read by Sumter School District Board of Trustees Vice Chairman Karen Michalik:

rarely engage like this, but I don’t just owe my constituents my best judgment or a clear and honest understanding of my position on an issue, I owe an honest representation of Karen Michalik. I owe you my integrity, so it is to that last obligation I am compelled to respond to the February 17 front page article of The Sumter Item titled, “Letting their voices be heard, African-American pastors speaking out against Sumter School District officials.” My response is as follows: God don’t like ugly, so, I will do my best not to offend Him with my testimony… Maybe there exists, in the underbelly of some seedy back alley, a place where business is done with “favors.” Well, I don’t hang out in back alleys

GUEST COMMENTARY and neither would I associate with people of little to no integrity that operate that way. To those of you who do not Karen know me perMichalik sonally, let me assure you tonight the moral compass that guides me is set very high and will not be trifled with. With the single exception of a few barnyard chickens gifted me when I lost my flock to a bobcat, I have never, let me repeat that, I have never asked for or have I ever received any “favors” from Dr. Baker, Superintendent of Sumter School District. And in the interest of full disclosure, I did offer to pay for the chickens. I have enjoyed the three hens and Rooster Cogburn, but in no way does the

manner in which I procured these animals make it difficult for me to side against Dr. Baker, as alleged in the article. This is the people’s seat! It will not be bullied or threatened by a vocal minority group seemingly hell bent on destruction. So know this … the integrity of this seat has NOT, and will NOT be compromised by some despicable allegation that has absolutely no basis in fact! There is no proof, beyond approximately $20 worth of barnyard chickens, of “any” so called favors. There cannot be, because they simply do not exist! I will conclude my statement where it began. To those of you who gave false witness against me, the last time I checked, only God is tall enough to look down on me, and I work very hard at trying to find “favor” in His eyes. Maybe you should too! Cause like I said, God don’t like ugly.

A10

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017

SUPPORT GROUPS dered Children (POMC) — Third AA, AL-ANON, ALATEEN: Tuesday, 5:30-7 p.m., Birnie AA — Monday-Friday, noon HOPE Center, 210 S. Purdy St. and 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8 Support Groups: March 1, 2017 Open to anyone who has lost p.m.; Sundays, 10:30 a.m. and a loved one to murder in a vi7 p.m., 1 Warren St. (803) 775olent way. 1852. Multiple Sclerosis Support Group AA Women’s Meeting — — Third Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Wednesdays, 7 p.m., 1 Warren Carolinas Rehabilitation HosSt. (803) 775-1852. pital, 121 E. Cedar St., FlorAA Spanish Speaking — Sunence. Call (843) 661-3746. days, 4:30 p.m., 1 Warren St. EFMP Parent Exchange Group — (803) 775-1852. Last Tuesday, 11 a.m.-noon, AA “How it Works” Group — Airman and Family Readiness Mondays and Fridays, 8 p.m., Center. Support to service 1154 Ronda St. Call (803) 494members who have a depen5180. dent with a disability or illness. Call (803) 895-1252/1253 441 AA Support Group — Monor (803) 847-2377. days, Tuesdays and Fridays, 8:30 p.m., Hair Force, 2090-D WEDNESDAY MEETINGS: S.C. 441. Sickle Cell Support Group — Last AA Summerton Group — Wednesday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Wednesday, 8 p.m., town hall. South Sumter Resource CenManning Al-Anon Family Group ter, 337 Manning Ave. Call — Thursdays, 7:30 p.m., Be(803) 774-6181. havioral Health Building, 14 Divorce Care — Wednesdays, Church St., Manning. Call 6:30 p.m., Bethel Baptist Angie Johnson at (803) 435Church, 2401 Bethel Church 8085. Road. Call (803) 481-2160. C/A “Drop the Rock” Group — Grief Share — Wednesdays, Thursdays, 9:30 p.m., 1154 6:30 p.m., Bethel Baptist Ronda St. Call Elizabeth Church, 2401 Bethel Church Owens at (803) 607-4543. Road. Call (803) 481-2160.

MONDAY MEETINGS: Sumter Vitiligo Support Group — Second Monday, 5:45-6:45 p.m., North HOPE Center, 904 N. Main St. Call (803) 316-6763. The group is also on Facebook.

TUESDAY MEETINGS: Heroin Anonymous — Tuesdays, 9:30-10:30 p.m., 4742 Broad St. Call (803) 494-5180. Sumter Connective Tissue Support Group — First Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September and November, 7 p.m., 180 Tiller Circle. Call (803) 773-0869. Mothers of Angels (for mothers who have lost a child) — First Tuesday at noon and third Tuesday at 6 p.m., Wise Drive Baptist Church. Call (803) 4696059, (803) 979-4498, (803) 4694506 or (803) 938-8544. Sumter Combat Veterans Group Peer to Peer — Tuesdays, 11 a.m., South HOPE Center, 1125 S. Lafayette Drive. Veterans helping veterans with PTSD, coping skills, claims and benefits. “The Gathering” — Second Tuesday, 5:30-6:30 p.m., North HOPE Center, 904 N. Main St. For teens and adults with special needs. Call (803) 9720051 or (803) 468-5745 or email thegathering23@aol.com. Parkinson’s Support Group — Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Carolinas Rehabilitation Hospital, 121 E. Cedar St., Florence. Call (843) 661-3746. Sumter Amputee Support Group — Second Tuesday, 6:30 p.m., Sumter Prosthetics & Orthotics, 259 Broad St. Call (803) 883-4356. Sumter Chapter Parents of Mur-

THURSDAY MEETINGS: TOPS S.C. No. 236 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) — Thursdays, 9 a.m., Spectrum Senior Center,1989 Durant Lane. Call (803) 775-3926 or (803) 4694789. Alzheimer’s Support Group through S.C. Alzheimer’s Association — First Thursday, 6-8 p.m., National Health Care, 1018 N. Guignard Drive. Call (803) 9057720 or (800) 636-3346. Journey of Hope (for family members of the mentally ill), Journey to Recovery (for the mentally ill) and Survivors of Suicide Support Group — Each group meets every first Thursday, 7 p.m., St. John United Methodist Church, 136 Poinsett Drive. Call (803) 9055620. Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group — Fourth Thursday, 1011:30 a.m., Palmetto Health Tuomey Hospice, 500 Pinewood Road, Suite 2. Call (803) 773-4663.

FRIDAY MEETINGS: Celebrate Recovery — Fridays, 6 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. program, Salt & Light Church, Miller Road (across from Food Lion). For struggles of alcohol, drugs, family problems, smoking, etc. Wateree AIDS Task Force Support Group — Third Friday, 11:30 a.m., 508 W. Liberty St. Call (803) 778-0303.

SATURDAY MEETINGS: Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy/ Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Support Group — Third Saturday, 1:30 p.m., 3785 Blackberry Lane, Lot 7. Call (803) 481-7521.

DAILY PLANNER

THE SUMTER ITEM

WEATHER

AccuWeather® ﬁve-day forecast for Sumter TODAY

TONIGHT

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Partly sunny and windy

A gusty t-storm this evening

Mostly sunny and cooler

Sunshine

Plenty of sun

Sunny, pleasant and warmer

86°

57°

64° / 38°

66° / 33°

59° / 35°

69° / 48°

Chance of rain: 10%

Chance of rain: 55%

Chance of rain: 10%

Chance of rain: 0%

SW 12-25 mph

W 8-16 mph

NNW 8-16 mph

W 7-14 mph

E 4-8 mph

SW 6-12 mph

TODAY’S SOUTH CAROLINA WEATHER

Gaﬀney 77/45 Spartanburg 76/46

Greenville 76/44

Columbia 87/53

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

IN THE MOUNTAINS

Sumter 86/57

Aiken 85/55

ON THE COAST

Charleston 84/62

Today: Low clouds and fog may break in central parts. High 75 to 84. Thursday: A shower and storm, but a shower in northern parts. High 62 to 66.

LOCAL ALMANAC

LAKE LEVELS

SUMTER THROUGH 4 P.M. YESTERDAY

Full pool 360 76.8 75.5 100

Lake Murray Marion Moultrie Wateree

80° 54° 62° 37° 85° in 1997 14° in 1963

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

Myrtle Beach 78/60

Manning 86/58

Today: A heavy, gusty thunderstorm. Winds west-southwest 10-20 mph. Thursday: Sunny and nice. Winds westnorthwest 3-6 mph.

Temperature High Low Normal high Normal low Record high Record low

Florence 86/56

Bishopville 86/56

SUN AND MOON 7 a.m. yest. 356.85 74.84 74.82 98.58

24-hr chg -0.03 -0.02 -0.05 -0.12

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

trace 1.04" 3.48" 5.58" 9.79" 7.42"

NATIONAL CITIES

REGIONAL CITIES

Today Thu. City Hi/Lo/W Hi/Lo/W Atlanta 76/44/t 60/39/s Chicago 45/26/r 38/21/sf Dallas 67/39/s 66/41/s Detroit 64/27/r 41/23/pc Houston 81/47/c 70/44/s Los Angeles 74/50/s 80/52/s New Orleans 82/56/c 65/49/s New York 70/48/sh 48/33/pc Orlando 88/65/pc 85/59/c Philadelphia 73/48/t 52/32/pc Phoenix 68/47/s 77/54/s San Francisco 60/43/s 61/44/s Wash., DC 76/46/t 55/36/pc

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 71/35/t 79/45/t 88/56/c 84/62/pc 75/61/c 84/62/pc 80/46/pc 76/49/t 87/53/pc 85/53/c 79/55/c 84/57/c 86/58/c

Flood 7 a.m. 24-hr stage yest. chg 12 8.18 -0.08 19 3.24 +0.04 14 5.27 -0.20 14 2.65 +0.71 80 75.84 -0.14 24 5.58 +0.53

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 52/30/s 64/35/s 68/35/s 66/43/pc 61/47/pc 65/41/t 63/33/pc 66/39/s 66/36/s 64/36/s 61/38/s 63/38/s 65/39/s

Today City Hi/Lo/W Florence 86/56/c Gainesville 87/61/pc Gastonia 80/45/pc Goldsboro 83/57/c Goose Creek 84/61/pc Greensboro 80/42/c Greenville 76/44/t Hickory 74/41/t Hilton Head 83/55/pc Jacksonville, FL 88/62/pc La Grange 80/46/t Macon 82/52/c Marietta 73/41/t

Sunrise 6:51 a.m. Moonrise 8:51 a.m.

Sunset Moonset

6:18 p.m. 9:46 p.m.

First

Full

Last

New

Mar. 5

Mar. 12

Mar. 20

Mar. 27

TIDES AT MYRTLE BEACH

Today Thu.

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 64/37/s 71/45/t 63/34/pc 64/35/s 63/41/t 60/34/s 63/35/pc 59/34/s 64/41/t 69/43/t 65/35/s 64/36/s 59/35/s

High 10:57 a.m. 11:12 p.m. 11:43 a.m. ---

Ht. 3.2 3.3 3.1 ---

Low 5:26 a.m. 5:49 p.m. 6:16 a.m. 6:36 p.m.

Today City Hi/Lo/W Marion 75/43/t Mt. Pleasant 84/58/c Myrtle Beach 78/60/c Orangeburg 85/56/c Port Royal 81/57/pc Raleigh 83/50/pc Rock Hill 78/46/c Rockingham 83/53/pc Savannah 87/60/pc Spartanburg 76/46/t Summerville 84/61/pc Wilmington 79/60/c Winston-Salem 79/44/t

Ht. -0.6 -0.7 -0.5 -0.6

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 61/31/s 65/41/t 64/41/t 64/38/s 63/44/t 63/35/s 62/32/pc 62/33/s 67/42/t 62/35/pc 65/41/sh 63/38/pc 59/35/s

Weather(W): s–sunny, pc–partly cloudy, c–cloudy, sh–showers, t–thunderstorms, r–rain, sf–snow ﬂurries, sn–snow, i–ice

Brown’s

“Where Quality Matters”

FURNITURE & BEDDING

PUBLIC AGENDA TOWN OF LYNCHBURG PLANNING COMMISSION Today, 4 p.m., town hall

Generous Comfort. Smooth Operation. Unmatched Quality. 31 West Wesmark Blvd • Sumter, SC

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You’ve got the EUGENIA LAST drive to do something spectacular. Gather information and set up meetings. Set your sights on your goals. Do your best to explore new possibilities. If you want something, go after it wholeheartedly. Love is highlighted.

overreacts.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Deal with matters pertaining to your private finances, medical history or government agencies with caution. Refuse to let anyone back you into a compromising corner. Make concise statements and keep moving forward. Call in a favor.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You’ll be tempted by what someone offers you. Do your best to impress your employer or other talented people in your field. Mingle, network and show off your talent, expertise and willingness to go the distance.

The last word in astrology

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Take care of the important details of your occupation. How well you work with others will make a difference to the outcome of a situation at work or within a group you belong to. Romance is highlighted.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Learn from those with more experience. Cooperation will work to your advantage when seeking advancement. Partnerships look promising once you get past divvying up responsibilities. Maintaining balance in your life will lead to success.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Communication, travel and obtaining accurate information will be a challenge. Stick to the people you know and focus on improving your relationships. An opportunity will come out of nowhere. Know your assets and your limitations.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Someone will try to take over or bully you into something you should have no part of. Don’t let anyone take advantage of you or pressure you into something you don’t want to do. Avoid indulgence and impulsiveness.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Pressure will be put on you to take action before you’re ready to participate. Don’t feel obligated to align yourself with anyone who appears unstable. Believe in your ability to rise on your own merit.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Short trips, pick-me-ups and celebrating your good fortune with someone you love are featured. Opportunities will be abundant, and taking advantage of what’s available will put you in a stellar position. Don’t let a bully stand in your way.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): A joint venture will change your life. Take the initiative to put your plans in motion. Personal and professional gains can be made by using your unique skills to bring about new opportunities. Physical improvements can be made.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Selfcriticism will do you good and bring about alterations to the way you do things. Limit your expenditures and try not to overindulge in food and drink. Emotional situations will turn sour if you or someone else

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Make decisions instead of taking orders. Be creative and look for alternative ways to live your life. Don’t give in to peer pressure. Use imagination and create the life that inspires you to be your best.

774-2100

SUMTER ANIMAL CONTROL PET OF THE WEEK Gizmo is a big, good ole mushy boy who likes most dogs, as long as they Gizmo like him, too. He is needs a family used to other dogs and wewho thinkwon’t he would do abandon himintrowell with formal ductions. What he really needs, though, is a family that will not abandon him. This guy is loyal, loving and attentive. Gizmo deserves a forever home. If he could be the one and only dog, that would be fantastic! Please consider this young adult male and give him a new start on life. Gizmo is in kennel 36 at Sumter Animal Control, 1240 Winkles Road, (803) 436-2066. Thank you for considering a homeless animal. You can view other lost / found / adoptable pets at Sumter Animal Control on Facebook.

HAVE YOU TAKEN PICTURES OF INTERESTING, EXCITING, BEAUTIFUL OR HISTORICAL PLACES? Would you like to share those images with your fellow Sumter Item readers? E-mail your hi-resolution jpegs to sandra@theitem.com, or mail to Sandra Holbert c/o The Sumter Item, P.O. Box 1677, Sumter, SC 29150. Include clearly printed or typed name of photographer and photo details. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of your photo. Amateur photographers only please. Photos of poor reproduction quality may not publish. With the exception of pictures that are of a timely nature, submitted photos will publish in the order in which they are received.

SECTION

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017 Call: (803) 774-1241 | E-mail: sports@theitem.com

PREP BASEBALL

Doing all the little things Sumter baseball team hopes better execution will lead to better season BY JUSTIN DRIGGERS justin@theitem.com There’s one thing that separates high school baseball teams that win 20 or more games and those that don’t, Sumter High School head coach Brooks Shumake said. “They find ways to win,” Shumake said. “They do the little things to find ways to win at the end.” Finding ways of winning close games eluded the Gamecocks much of last season as they finished with a 14-13 overall record and bowed out in the District VI playoffs. “We got a little frustrated last year with the fact that we were not able to drive in runs when they were out there,” Shumake said. “This year we’re doing a really, really good job and a better job as a staff talking about situational hitting, so hopefully we’ll be able to hit better with men in scoring position. “We’re looking forward to getting out there and taking on that challenge.” That challenge begins on Thursday as SHS kicks off its 2017 campaign in the NaturChem Invitational hosted by both River Bluff and Lexington high schools. The Gamecocks will take on Airport High at 5 p.m. at Lexington High on Thursday before facing Blythewood at 2:30 p.m. at Lexington on Friday. Sumter then travels to face host River Bluff on Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by a to-be-determined game on Sunday. “We’ve got eight seniors on this team and about five or so juniors, so we’ve got a veteran team,” Shumake said. “A lot of those players didn’t start last year, but it is a veteran team with a lot of senior experience. “We expect our guys to go out there and play SUMTER ITEM FILE PHOTO with poise and compete at a high level.”

The Sumter High School baseball team hopes to see a lot of Jordan Holladay being greeted by head coach Brooks Shumake rounding third base after a home run this season. Holladay, the University of South Carolina signee, and the Gamecocks open their season on Thursday in the NaturChem Invitational against Airport at the Lexington High field.

SEE SUMTER, PAGE B2

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Palmetto State stepping into postseason limelight BY PETE IACOBELLI AP Sports Writer COLUMBIA — For more than 15 years, the state of South Carolina stood on the sidelines watching as big-time postseason basketball passed it by. Now, the Palmetto State is preparing to show its stuff. While the return was borne from the shooting deaths of nine parishioners at Charleston’s Emanuel AME Church that spurred the removal of the Confederate flag from Statehouse grounds, those in the state who love hoops are

eager to make its comeback a success. “The rest of the country is going to see what South Carolina has to offer,” Gamecocks women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley said. Things start next week when the Atlantic Coast Conference and Southeastern Conference hold their women’s basketball tournaments in the state, the ACC in Conway, close to Myrtle Beach, and the SEC in Greenville. A few weeks later, Greenville’s Bon Secours Wellness Arena will host the first and second rounds of the men’s

NCAA Tournament, something it last did in 2002 — and was accompanied by a NAACP protest march that urged people to “Don’t stop, don’t shop, ‘til the flag drops.” The Colonial Athletic Association plays its men’s basketball tournament at the home of recent member College of Charleston. And Staley’s team, despite a late-season slide, including two losses in the past two weeks, is likely to host first- and secondround games in the women’s NCAA Tournament — making it a March chock full of madness like hadn’t been seen here

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, left, and the Gamecocks will be playing the SEC tournament in Greenville beginning on Friday while the ACC tournament will be held in Conway. The NCAA is allowing postseason events in the state for the first time since the removal of the Confederate flag from Statehouse grounds. in years. “We’re ready,” said Duane Parrish, director of the state’s parks, recreation and tourism department. South Carolina was banned

by the NCAA in 2001 from holding pre-determined championships like men’s basketball

SEE PALMETTO, PAGE B5

KEEPING UP

USC MEN’S BASKETBALL

Gamecocks top Bulldogs 63-57 Former SHS standout Starling playing pro hoops in Belgium BY PETE IACOBELLI AP Sports Writer

COLUMBIA — Sindarius Thornwell scored 17 of his 22 points in the second half and Duane Notice hit a foul shot with 3:11 left that put South Carolina ahead for good in a 63-57 victory over Mississippi State on Tuesday night. Notice added his only basket, a 3-pointer with 2:12 to go, that THORNWELL extended the lead for the Gamecocks (22-8, 12-5 SEC) who won the second-most Southeastern Conference games in their history and clinched one of the top four seeds for next week’s league tournament. Not that it was easy. Mississippi State (14-15, 5-12), playing without injured leading scorer Quinndary Weatherspoon, erased a 10-point deficit midway through the half and took a 52-50 lead on Tyson Carter’s 3-pointer with 4:29 to go. But Thornwell tied things up with two foul shots before

Notice’s go-ahead free throw. Chris Silva had 15 points and 11 rebounds for South Carolina, his third double-double game this season. Thornwell and Notice were honored before the game, along with fellow senior Justin McKie, in their final time at Colonial Life Arena. Mississippi State finished with 20 turnovers as it lost its seventh straight and ninth in the past 10 games. Mario Kegler had 12 points and Carter 11 to lead the Bulldogs. The Gamecocks victory bolstered their NCAA Tournament credentials with their 12th SEC win, the highest total in program history behind the 1997 team that went 15-1 for its only league championship.

THE BIG PICTURE Mississippi State: The Bulldogs played without Quinndary Weatherspoon, out with a sprained ankle. He went through warmups before the settling for a seat on the bench. Mississippi State has struggled with

SEE TOP, PAGE B3

BY BARBARA BOXLEITNER Special to The Sumter Item Brittany Starling has continued her basketball career in Belgium. The Sumter High School graduate has been playing for the Kangoeroes of a top division in a Belgium league. The 23-year-old center has played 12 of the 15 games in the current season, which started in September, according to the European Basketball online site. STARLING The former USC Upstate standout averaged 11.3 points and 3.9 rebounds, both fourth on the squad. She had a season-high 16 points during a November game and had a season-best 10 rebounds at least three times. Starling led the team with eight rebounds in a Feb. 18 win and had 13 points.

BASEBALL Saint Augustine’s University redshirt senior Michael Keels batted .333 in 13 starts. The Manning High graduate had eight runs batted in and was second on the team with seven stolen bases in 10 attempts. Presbyterian College pitcher Will Smith was 1-0 with a 0.00 earned run average in one outing. He is a past SHS Gamecock. Out of Thomas Sumter Academy, North Greenville University pitcher Shane Bishop had no record and a 3.00 ERA in three relief appearances. Junior outfielder Ni-Twaun Hill was hitless in one at-bat for Voorhees College. He is from Manning High.

MEN’S TENNIS Freshman Mark Carnes has played fifth and sixth singles for Limestone College. Carnes, who played for Wilson Hall, won once at No. 5 and lost twice

SEE FORMER, PAGE B2

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017

SCOREBOARD TV, RADIO TODAY

9 a.m. – Professional Tennis: Dubai Championships Early-Round Matches (TENNIS). 1 p.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: Miami vs. Houston from West Palm Beach, Fla. (MLB NETWORK). 1:30 p.m. – Professional Tennis: Dubai Championships and ATP Acapulco Early-Round Matches (TENNIS). 2 p.m. – NFL Football: NFL Scouting Combine Press Conference from Indianapolis (NFL NETWORK). 2:30 p.m. – International Soccer: FA Cup Round-of-16 Match – Huddersfield vs. Manchester City (FOX SPORTS 1). 4 p.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: Texas vs. Los Angeles Angels from Tempe, Ariz. (MLB NETWORK). 5 p.m. – College Lacrosse: Georgetown at Johns Hopkins (ESPNU). 5 p.m. – Professional Tennis: ATP Acapulco 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: Auburn at Georgia (SEC NETWORK). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: Arkansas at Florida (ESPN2). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: Connecticut at East Carolina (ESPNU). 7 p.m. – Women’s International Soccer: United States vs. Germany from Chester, Pa. (FOX SPORTS 1). 7 p.m. – NHL Hockey: Carolina at Tampa Bay (FOX SPORTS SOUTHEAST). 7 p.m. – College Basketball: Rhode Island at St. Joseph’s (TIME WARNER 1250). 8 p.m. – College Basketball: Virginia Commonwealth at Dayton (CBS SPORTS NETWORK). 8 p.m. – NBA Basketball: Cleveland at Boston (ESPN). 8 p.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. San Francisco from Scottsdale, Ariz. (MLB NETWORK). 8 p.m. – NHL Hockey: Pittsburgh at Chicago (NBC SPORTS NETWORK). 8 p.m. – College Basketball: North Carolina State at Clemson (WWBDFM 94.7). 8:30 p.m. – College Basketball: Mississippi at Alabama (SEC NETWORK). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Texas at Texas Tech (ESPN2). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Kansas State at Texas Christian (ESPNU). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Marquette at Xavier (FOX SPORTS 1). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Louisville at Wake Forest (FOX SPORTSOUTH). 9 p.m. – Professional Tennis: ATP Acapulco Early-Round Matches (TENNIS). 9 p.m. – College Basketball: Toledo at Northern Illinois (TIME WARNER 1250). 9:25 p.m. – International Soccer: Mexican League Match – America vs. Santos (UNIVISION). 10 p.m. – College Basketball: Air Force at San Diego State (CBS SPORTS NETWORK). 10:30 p.m. – NBA Basketball: Houston at Los Angeles Clippers (ESPN). 10:30 p.m. – LPGA Golf: HSBC Champions First Round from Singapore (GOLF). 11 p.m. – College Basketball: Utah State at Nevada-Las Vegas (ESPNU). 11 p.m. – College Basketball: Washington at UCLA (FOX SPORTS 1). 11:30 p.m. – International Soccer: CONCACAF Champions League Match – Tigres vs. Unam (UNIVISION). Midnight – Major League Exhibition Baseball: Atlanta vs. New York Yankees from Tampa, Fla. (MLB NETWORK). 5 a.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: Cincinnati vs. Milwaukee from Phoenix (MLB NETWORK).

BASEBALL The Associated Press MLB SPRING TRAINING AMERICAN LEAGUE Los Angeles Cleveland New York Tampa Bay Kansas City Houston Seattle Baltimore Detroit Minnesota Chicago Oakland Boston Texas Toronto NATIONAL LEAGUE Pittsburgh San Francisco St. Louis Colorado Los Angeles New York Philadelphia Chicago Milwaukee Miami Atlanta Arizona Washington San Diego Cincinnati

W 3 2 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 0

L 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 1 2 3 3 4

Pct. 1.000 1.000 0.750 0.750 0.667 0.667 0.667 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.333 0.250 0.250 0.000

W 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0

L 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 4

Pct. 0.750 0.750 0.750 0.750 0.667 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.333 0.333 0.333 0.333 0.333 0.000 0.000

MONDAY’S GAMES

Detroit 10, Atlanta 7 Minnesota 9, Miami 6 N.Y. Yankees 4, Baltimore 1 St. Louis (ss) 7, Boston 2 Tampa Bay 7, Philadelphia 2 St. Louis (ss) 5, Washington 4 Pittsburgh 2, Toronto 1 Houston 5, N.Y. Mets 2 Kansas City 14, Seattle 3 Chicago White Sox 4, Chicago Cubs 4 Colorado 7, L.A. Dodgers 1 Milwaukee 5, Texas (ss) 0 Oakland 5, San Francisco 4 Cleveland 3, Texas (ss) 2 Arizona 6, Cincinnati 1 L.A. Angels 5, San Diego 3

TUESDAY’S GAMES

Baltimore vs. Philadelphia at Clearwater, Fla., 1:05 p.m. Detroit vs. N.Y. Yankees (ss) at Tampa, Fla., 1:05 p.m. Houston vs. Washington at West Palm Beach, Fla., 1:05 p.m. Minnesota vs. Tampa Bay at Port Charlotte, Fla., 1:05 p.m. N.Y. Mets vs. Miami at Jupiter, Fla., 1:05 p.m. N.Y. Yankees (ss) vs. Boston at Fort Myers, Fla., 1:05 p.m. St. Louis vs. Atlanta at Kissimmee, Fla., 1:05 p.m. Toronto vs. Pittsburgh at Bradenton, Fla., 1:05 p.m. Arizona vs. Texas at Surprise, Ariz., 3:05 p.m. Chicago White Sox (ss) vs. Cincinnati at Goodyear, Ariz., 3:05 p.m. Cleveland vs. Oakland at Mesa, Ariz., 3:05 p.m. Kansas City vs. Milwaukee at Phoenix, 3:05 p.m. L.A. Angels vs. Chicago Cubs at Mesa, Ariz., 3:05 p.m. Seattle vs. Chicago White Sox (ss) at Glendale, Ariz., 3:05 p.m. L.A. Dodgers vs. Colorado at Scottsdale, Ariz., 3:10 p.m. San Francisco vs. San Diego at Peoria, Ariz., 3:10 p.m.

TODAY’S GAMES

Boston vs. Baltimore at Sarasota, Fla., 1:05 p.m. Miami vs. Houston at West Palm Beach, Fla., 1:05 p.m. N.Y. Mets vs. St. Louis at Jupiter, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

THE SUMTER ITEM

Philadelphia vs. Tampa Bay at Port Charlotte, Fla., 1:05 p.m. Pittsburgh vs. Minnesota at Fort Myers, Fla., 1:05 p.m. Washington vs. Detroit (ss) at Lakeland, Fla., 1:05 p.m. Detroit (ss) vs. Toronto at Dunedin, Fla., 1:07 p.m. Arizona vs. Chicago White Sox at Glendale, Ariz., 3:05 p.m. Chicago Cubs vs. Kansas City at Surprise, Ariz., 3:05 p.m. Cincinnati vs. Milwaukee at Phoenix, 3:05 p.m. Seattle vs. Cleveland at Goodyear, Ariz., 3:05 p.m. Oakland vs. San Diego (ss) at Peoria, Ariz., 3:10 p.m. San Diego (ss) vs. Colorado at Scottsdale, Ariz., 3:10 p.m. Texas vs. L.A. Angels at Tempe, Ariz., 3:10 p.m. Atlanta vs. N.Y. Yankees at Tampa, Fla., 6:35 p.m. L.A. Dodgers vs. San Francisco at Scottsdale, Ariz., 8:05 p.m.

NBA STANDINGS 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 34 23 22 9

L 21 24 35 35 48

Pct .638 .586 .397 .386 .158

GB — 3 14 14½ 27½

W 34 32 26 24 21

L 22 25 32 33 38

Pct .607 .561 .448 .421 .356

GB — 2½ 9 10½ 14½

W 40 30 29 28 25

L 16 28 29 30 31

Pct .714 .517 .500 .483 .446

GB — 11 12 13 15

L 13 18 25 35 35

Pct .772 .695 .576 .397 .386

GB — 4 11 21½ 22

L 22 25 32 33 35

Pct .621 .569 .448 .421 .397

GB — 3 10 11½ 13

L 9 23 33 40 40

Pct .842 .603 .431 .322 .310

GB — 13½ 23½ 30 30½

WESTERN CONFERENCE SOUTHWEST DIVISION W San Antonio 44 Houston 41 Memphis 34 New Orleans 23 Dallas 22 NORTHWEST DIVISION W Utah 36 Oklahoma City 33 Denver 26 Portland 24 Minnesota 23 PACIFIC DIVISION W Golden State 48 L.A. Clippers 35 Sacramento 25 L.A. Lakers 19 Phoenix 18

MONDAY’S GAMES

Cleveland 102, Milwaukee 95 Golden State 119, Philadelphia 108 Toronto 92, New York 91 Atlanta 114, Boston 98 Dallas 96, Miami 89 Indiana 117, Houston 108 Minnesota 102, Sacramento 88

TUESDAY’S GAMES

Golden State at Washington, 7 p.m. Portland at Detroit, 7:30 p.m. Denver at Chicago, 8 p.m. Phoenix at Memphis, 8 p.m. Utah at Oklahoma City, 8 p.m. Charlotte at L.A. Lakers, 10:30 p.m.

TODAY’S GAMES

New York at Orlando, 7 p.m. Dallas at Atlanta, 7:30 p.m. Philadelphia at Miami, 7:30 p.m. Washington at Toronto, 7:30 p.m. Cleveland at Boston, 8 p.m. Denver at Milwaukee, 8 p.m. Detroit at New Orleans, 8 p.m. Indiana at San Antonio, 8:30 p.m. Minnesota at Utah, 9 p.m. Brooklyn at Sacramento, 10:30 p.m. Houston at L.A. Clippers, 10:30 p.m.

THURSDAY’S GAMES

Golden State at Chicago, 8 p.m. Charlotte at Phoenix, 9 p.m. Oklahoma City at Portland, 10:30 p.m.

NHL STANDINGS The Associated Press

SUMTER ITEM FILE PHOTO

Rylan Williamson is one of three returning starting pitchers for Sumter High School this season along with Jordan Holladay and Dawson Price. The Gamecocks open their season on Thursday in the NaturChem Invitational against Airport at the Lexington High field.

SUMTER FROM PAGE B1 That begins with the starting rotation as three of SHS’ top pitchers are back in seniors Jordan Holladay, Dawson Price and Rylan Williamson. “Those three a really going to anchor us along with Lathan Todd and (Joshua) Sykes, who we expect to contribute a lot this year,” Shumake said. Caleb Larrimore, Daniel Twitty, Ryan Moore and Andrew Twitty will provide Sumter with some pitching depth, which will likely be key this year with the new mandated pitchcount rules. “Pitchers are going to

have to be ready to throw and we’ve been working a lot of guys,” Shumake said. “Hopefully they can step up and get us some outs.” The Gamecocks do have some holes to fill otherwise with the graduations of Brandon Spittle, Tradd James and Drew Hankins, but versatility will not be an issue as Sumter has numerous players who will play multiple positions. Daniel Twitty returns to his spot behind the dish with Corey Blackley seeing time as well. Williamson will man first base when he’s not pitching, and when he is, An-

drew Twitty will take over at first. Sykes and Joey Pereira will see time at second with Moore at short and Price taking over when Moore is on the mound. Holladay will play both third base and in the outfield along with Price. Larrimore and Hampton Rowe will play right and left fields. Luke Stokes will also see time in the outfield and with Tucker Chapman. “Our lineup is very competitive right now,” Shumake said. “We’ll put people out there to start with, but we’re looking for guys to step up and separate themselves so that there’s no question who should start based on performance.”

EASTERN CONFERENCE ATLANTIC DIVISION GP W L

OT Pts GF

Montreal Ottawa Boston Toronto Florida Tampa Bay Buffalo Detroit

8 6 6 13 10 8 10 10

176 161 172 189 155 171 152 150

163 162 165 182 172 171 176 178

METROPOLITAN DIVISION GP W L

OT Pts GF

Washington Pittsburgh Columbus N.Y. Rangers N.Y. Islanders Philadelphia New Jersey Carolina

7 8 5 2 10 7 12 8

133 168 145 164 182 187 180 168

63 61 62 61 61 61 62 60

61 60 60 62 61 61 62 58

34 33 32 28 28 28 26 24

41 38 39 40 29 28 25 25

21 22 24 20 23 25 26 26

13 14 16 20 22 26 25 25

76 72 70 69 66 64 62 58

89 84 83 82 68 63 62 58

203 211 199 206 180 157 145 146

FORMER FROM PAGE B1 at No. 6. He was 1-2 in No. 2 doubles. The Citadel sophomore Trey Davis has been playing the fourth through sixth singles spots. The former Baron was 4-8 overall, including 3-4 at fifth singles. He was winless in one match in second doubles. Men’s track and field

Coker College freshman Dre Litsey finished seventh in the triple jump at a University of North Carolina meet. The Thomas Sumter alumnus jumped 39 feet, 11.25 inches. The Citadel junior Devin Singleton placed third in the 400-meter run against Virginia Military Institute. The Wilson Hall product was part of the winning 4-by-400 relay team. Send updates about area athletes to Barbara Boxleitner at bboxleitner@outlook.com.

WESTERN CONFERENCE CENTRAL DIVISION GP W L

OT Pts GF

Minnesota Chicago Nashville St. Louis Winnipeg Dallas Colorado

6 5 9 5 6 10 3

142 159 173 177 199 201 199

60 62 62 61 63 62 60

40 39 31 31 28 24 17

14 18 22 25 29 28 40

86 83 71 67 62 58 37

203 187 183 172 184 173 121

PACIFIC DIVISION GP W L

OT Pts GF

San Jose Edmonton Anaheim Calgary Los Angeles Vancouver Arizona

7 8 10 4 5 6 7

145 166 161 177 156 176 196

61 63 63 63 62 61 61

36 33 32 33 30 26 22

18 22 21 26 27 29 32

79 74 74 70 65 58 51

170 181 162 169 154 143 148

PREP SCHEDULE TODAY Varsity Baseball

Trinity-Byrnes at Thomas Sumter, 6 p.m.

Junior Varsity Baseball

Lugoff-Elgin at Sumter, 6 p.m.

Clarendon Hall at Colleton Prep, 4 p.m.

B Team Baseball

Wilson Hall at Orangeburg Prep (DH), 5 p.m.

Varsity Golf

Trinity-Byrnes at Thomas Sumter, 4 p.m.

Wilson Hall at Heathwood Hall (at Oak Hills Country Club), 3:30 p.m. Thomas Sumter at Laurence Manning, 3:30 p.m.

Varsity Boys Golf

Varsity Girls Soccer

B Team Baseball

Wilson Hall at Hammond (at Columbia Country Club), 4 p.m.

Varsity Boys Soccer

Sumter at Andrews, 6 p.m.

Varsity Softball

Marlboro Academy at Robert E. Lee, 5:30 p.m.

NOTE: Two points for a win, one point for overtime loss.

Eau Claire at Lakewood, 7:30 p.m. Hartsville at Crestwood, 7:30 p.m. Cane Bay at Manning, 6 p.m.

MONDAY’S GAMES

Varsity Girls Soccer

Marlboro Academy at Robert E. Lee, 5:30 p.m.

Varsity Softball

FRIDAY Varsity Baseball

Montreal 4, New Jersey 3, OT Tampa Bay 5, Ottawa 1 Minnesota 5, Los Angeles 4, OT

TUESDAY’S GAMES

Washington at N.Y. Rangers, 7 p.m. Arizona at Boston, 7 p.m. Colorado at Philadelphia, 7 p.m. Nashville at Buffalo, 7 p.m. Columbus at Montreal, 7:30 p.m. Carolina at Florida, 7:30 p.m. Edmonton at St. Louis, 8 p.m. Minnesota at Winnipeg, 8 p.m. Pittsburgh at Dallas, 8:30 p.m. Los Angeles at Calgary, 9 p.m. Detroit at Vancouver, 10 p.m. Toronto at San Jose, 10:30 p.m.

TODAY’S GAMES

Carolina at Tampa Bay, 7 p.m. Pittsburgh at Chicago, 8 p.m.

THURSDAY’S GAMES

Arizona at Buffalo, 7 p.m. Minnesota at Columbus, 7 p.m. Florida at Philadelphia, 7 p.m. N.Y. Rangers at Boston, 7 p.m. New Jersey at Washington, 7 p.m. Nashville at Montreal, 7:30 p.m. Colorado at Ottawa, 7:30 p.m. N.Y. Islanders at Dallas, 8:30 p.m. Vancouver at San Jose, 10:30 p.m. Toronto at Los Angeles, 10:30 p.m.

FRIDAY’S GAMES

Tampa Bay at Pittsburgh, 7 p.m. Arizona at Carolina, 7:30 p.m. St. Louis at Winnipeg, 8 p.m. N.Y. Islanders at Chicago, 8:30 p.m. Detroit at Calgary, 9 p.m. Toronto at Anaheim, 10 p.m.

Hartsville at Crestwood, 6 p.m. Eau Claire at Lakewood, 6 p.m. Laurence Manning at Pee Dee, 4 p.m.

Junior Varsity Softball

Wilson Hall at Carolina Academy, 4 p.m.

B Team Softball

First Baptist at Laurence Manning, 5 p.m.

Varsity Track and Field

Thomas Sumter at Wilson Hall, 3:45 p.m.

THURSDAY Varsity Baseball

Sumter vs. Airport (at Lexington High), 5 p.m. Johnsonville at Crestwood (Lower Pee Dee Preseason Tournament), 6:30 p.m. Lamar at Lakewood (Pee Dee PreSeason Tournament), 6 p.m. Lake City at Manning (Lower Pee Dee Preseason Tournament), 6 p.m. East Clarendon vs. Mid-Carolina (RBI Tournament at White Knoll High in Lexington), 5 p.m. Thomas Sumter at Wilson Hall, 6 p.m. Robert E. Lee in North Central Tournament, TBA Calvary Christian at Sumter Christian, 4 p.m.

Junior Varsity Baseball

Camden at Lakewood, 6 p.m.

Junior Varsity Softball

Sumter vs. Blythewood (at Lexington High), 2:30 p.m. East Clarendon vs. Strom Thurmond (RBI Tournament at White Knoll High in Lexington), 7:30 p.m. Fork Union at Wilson Hall, 7 p.m. Pinewood Prep at Laurence Manning, 7 p.m. Patrick Henry at Clarendon Hall, 6 p.m.

Junior Varsity Baseball

Lakewood at Sumter, 6 p.m. Patrick Henry at Clarendon Hall, 4 p.m.

B Team Baseball

rence Manning in Pee Dee PitchOff (at Freedom Florence), TBA Patrick Henry at Clarendon Hall, 6 p.m.

Junior Varsity Soccer

Patrick Henry at Clarendon Hall, 4 p.m.

SATURDAY Varsity Baseball

Sumter at River Bluff, 10 a.m. Lakewood in Pee Dee Pre-Season Tournament, TBA Crestwood, Manning in Lower Pee Dee Preseason Tournament (at Lake City High), TBA East Clarendon vs. South Aiken (RBI Tournament at White Knoll High in Lexington), 5 p.m. Laurence Manning at Pinewood Prep, 3:30 p.m. Robert E. Lee vs. Fork Union (at Carolina Academy in Lake City), 11 a.m.

B Team Baseball

Laurence Manning at Pinewood Prep, 1 p.m.

Varsity Sporting Clays

Wilson Hall in SCDNR Youth Sporting Clay Open (at Palmetto Shooting Complex in Edgefield), TBA

Varsity Boys Soccer

Laurence Manning in Trinity-Byrnes Tournament, TBA

Varsity Softball

Pinewood Prep at Laurence Manning, 4:30 p.m.

East Clarendon, Wilson Hall, Laurence Manning in Pee Dee PitchOff (at Freedom Florence), TBA

Varsity Boys Soccer

Junior Varsity Softball

Ridge View at Sumter, 7 p.m. Lake City at Crestwood, 7:45 p.m. Lower Richland at Lakewood, 7:30 p.m. The King’s Academy at Wilson Hall, 5:30 p.m.

Sumter in Pee Dee Pitch-Off (at Freedom Florence), 9 a.m.

Varsity Track and Field

Junior Varsity Boys Soccer

Crestwood in Camden Invitational, 9 a.m. Lakewood in Tiger Invitational (in Fayetteville, N.C.), 9:30 a.m.

Varsity Girls Soccer

SUNDAY Varsity Baseball

Ridge View at Sumter, 5:30 p.m. Lake City at Crestwood, 5 p.m. Lake City at Crestwood, 6:15 p.m. Lower Richland at Lakewood, 6 p.m.

Varsity Softball

East Clarendon, Wilson Hall, Lau-

Sumter in NaturChem Invitational, TBA

Junior Varsity Softball

Sumter in Pee Dee Pitch-Off (at Freedom Florence), 9 a.m.

SPORTS

THE SUMTER ITEM

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017

NFL ROUNDUP

Redskins QB Cousins gets franchise tag BY BARRY WILNER AP Pro Football Writer The free agent marketplace gained two big names at running back, lost the prime quarterback potentially available, and saw two top defenders removed from the grab bag. Nine days before the free-forall begins, Adrian Peterson was told his $18 million option would not be picked up by the Vikings, and Jamaal Charles was released by the Chiefs on Tuesday. Together, they have rushed for more than 19,000 yards and scored 165 touchdowns. Yet, at ages 32 (Peterson) and 30 (Charles) when the 2017 season begins, they are at that career juncture when long-term deals for the position are rare. Yes, Peterson has Hall of Fame credentials and Charles might have had them had he not been so injury prone, but neither is likely to get a lengthy contract. Certainly there will be some interest, particularly in Peterson, who came back from a devastating knee injury to rush for 2,097 yards and win league MVP honors in 2012. He could be the player who puts a contender over the top, though he comes off another injury-ravaged season in which he played in three games. And the Vikings haven’t closed the door on his return at a lower salary. “Adrian is an important part of the Minnesota Vikings organization,” GM Rick Spielman said Tuesday. “We will continue to have conversations with his representatives and leave our future options open while determining what is best for both parties moving forward.”

AP FILE PHOTO

Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins passes against the New York Giants in Landover, Maryland. Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins had the franchise tag placed on him on Tuesday. Charles, sidelined for all but eight games the past two seasons, drew the highest praise from Chiefs owner Clark Hunt. “Jamaal has been one of the most prolific players in our organization’s history,” Hunt said, “and I have an enormous amount of respect for what he has accomplished. He’ll always be a part of the Chiefs family and we’ll be ready to honor him for his outstanding playing career when the time is right.” The time was right for the Redskins to keep Kirk Cousins, giving him an exclusive franchise tag. They have until July 15 to work out a lengthy con-

tract, but meanwhile he will be due to make somewhere near $24 million in 2017 — a pretty hefty number for a player with no postseason victories. Cousins got a non-exclusive tag last year. Last season, Cousins broke his franchise record for passing yards, nearly eclipsing 5,000, and set another team mark with more than 400 completions, throwing for 25 TDs and 12 interceptions with a completion rate of 67 percent. The Redskins lost four of their last six games to end up 8-7-1 and miss the playoffs. Charles’ teammate, All-Pro safety Eric Berry, said he

wouldn’t play for Kansas City if he was tagged for a second straight year. That was avoided when the Chiefs finalized a $78 million, six-year deal with Berry. Berry was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma three years ago, went through several rounds of brutal chemotherapy, then was deemed cancerfree the following summer. He’s been sensational since returning. “Keeping Eric Berry in a Chiefs uniform long term has been a significant goal,” GM John Dorsey said. “He’s a special football player and an incredible person. We’re thrilled

we were able to get this deal done.” Arizona’s Tyrann Mathieu had set the benchmark for the position after signing a $62.5 million, five-year deal with $40 million guaranteed. Berry is also getting $40 million guaranteed. Kansas City also signed offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif to a $41.25 million, five-year extension. Pass rusher Jason PierrePaul has shown the Giants he’s recovered from a serious hand injury sustained in a fireworks accident in 2015. The team placed a non-exclusive franchise tag on the two-time Pro Bowl defensive end Tuesday. It marked the second time in three years the Giants tagged Pierre-Paul. The other time was in 2015, but the 2010 firstround pick never signed his $14 million tender. It was ultimately withdrawn by the team after the July accident that mangled his right hand, resulting in his index finger being amputated and other fingers being mushroomed at their tips. Pierre-Paul missed the first half of the 2015 season and eventually returned after signing an incentive-laden $8 million contract. He struggled, had more surgery on his hand after the 2015 season and his play improved last season. He had seven sacks, 53 tackles, eight passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery that he returned for a touchdown. Also, Cleveland placed a second-round, free-agent tender on RB Isaiah Crowell and agreed to terms with punter Britton Colquitt on a four-year contract.

SPORTS ITEMS

Jackson scores 22 as No. 17 Duke beats No. 15 FSU 75-70 DURHAM, N.C. (AP) — Freshman Frank Jackson scored a season-best 22 points and No. 17 Duke beat No. 15 Florida State 75-70 on Tuesday night. Amile Jefferson, playing in his final game at Cameron Indoor Stadium, added 14 points and 11 rebounds while Luke Kennard finished with 17 points for the Blue Devils (237, 11-6 Atlantic Coast Conference). Jayson Tatum added 15 points for Duke, which held Florida State 14 points below its scoring average to snap a two-game losing streak that cost the Blue Devils a top-10 ranking. Dwayne Bacon scored 19 points and Xavier RathanMayes had 15 for the Seminoles (23-7, 11-6), who had their two-game winning streak snapped.

(16) PURDUE 86 INDIANA 75 WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) — Dakota Mathias scored 17 of his 19 points in the first half and Caleb Swanigan added 17 of his 21 in the second Tuesday night to lead No. 16 Purdue past Indiana 86-75 for a share of the Big Ten title. The Boilermakers (24-6, 13-4) broke a tie with their rival by claiming a record 23rd conference title. James Blackmon Jr. scored

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Florida State’s Dwayne Bacon (4) tries to get up a shot between Duke’s Jayson Tatum, left, and Marques Bolden in the Blue Devils’ 75-70 win on Tuesday in Durham, North Carolina. 16 points for Indiana (16-14, 6-11), which has lost eight of 10. The Hoosiers’ biggest problem — foul trouble. After Indiana cut a 15-point deficit to four early in the second half, the Boilermakers went on a 10-2 run when Indiana’s top two centers both picked up their third foul. The Hoosiers got as close as 57-51 with 10:07 left, but the Boilermakers answered with seven straight and pulled away. Purdue has won seven of eight and has clinched the top seed in the Big Ten Tournament. Vince Edwards had 15

points and Swanigan finished with 10 rebounds. Indiana only led once, 17-14 midway through the first half.

COLLEGE BASEBALL CLEMSON 9 WOFFORD 2 CLEMSON — Twelfthranked Clemson scored two 2-out runs in both the first and second inning and added five runs in the eighth inning to defeat Wofford 9-2 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on Tuesday. The Tigers, who won their fifth game in a row, improved to 6-2 on the season, while the

Terriers dropped to 2-6. Andrew Cox ripped a 2-out, 2-run double down the rightfield line in the first inning. In the second inning, K.J. Bryant lined a 2-out triple to right field to score Robert Jolly, then Bryant scored on a balk. Brett Hash put Wofford on the scoreboard in the sixth inning on a 2-out, run-scoring single in the sixth inning. But Clemson added five insurance runs in the eighth inning, highlighted by Robert Jolly’s run-scoring double and Chase Pinder’s 2-run single. Graduate right-hander Tyler Jackson (1-1) earned his first win as a Tiger by tossing seven strong innings. He allowed just three hits, one run and one walk with nine strikeouts. Clemson plays No. 4 South Carolina this weekend at three different sites beginning Friday at Doug Kingsmore Stadium at 6:30 p.m.

SOUTH CAROLINA 8 APPALACHIAN STATE 4 COLUMBIA – Sophomore outfielder Jacob Olson homered twice and sophomore catcher Chris Cullen added a 3-run homer as well as fourthranked South Carolina defeated Appalachian State 8-4 on Tuesday at Founders Park. The Gamecocks improve to 6-3, while the Mountaineers drop to 4-4 on the year. Senior left-hander Josh Rea-

AREA ROUNDUP

Kovalcik scores 6 goals in Lady Knights’ big win Caylie Kovalcik scored six goals as Crestwood earned an 8-0 victory Lower Richland on Monday at the CHS field to open its season. Shailyn Kennedy added two goals for the Lady Knights while Victoria Sellers dished out four assists. loria Reyes and Ashley Prater each had two assists and goalkeeper Shannon Marie had three saves in the shutout. Crestwood opens region play at home today against Hartsville.

SUMTER 4 LAKEWOOD 0 Sumter High School opened its

regular season with a 4-0 win over Lakewood on Monday at the SHS field. Sumter travels to Andrews on Thursday.

BOYS VARSITY SOCCER LAKEWOOD 10 KEENAN 2 Lakewood High School opened its season with a 10-2 victory over Keenan on Monday at J. Frank Baker Stadium. Charles Owens led the Gators

with three goals and one assist. Tyler Carraher and Luis Montoya both had two goals and one assist, while Kenneth Jones and Jack Turcios both had a goal and two assists. Phillip Cadena added one goal.

JV SOCCER LAKEWOOD 1 KEENAN 0 Lakewood edged Keenan 1-0 on Monday at J. Frank Baker Stadium. The Gators improved to 2-0.

gan earned his first victory of the season. He allowed one run on one hit with four strikeouts in 2 1/3 innings of relief work. Junior righthander Tyler Johnson struck out five batters in two scoreless innings of relief to pick up his third save of the year. Carolina broke ahead 3-0 in the bottom of the second inning. Alex Destino led off with a walk and LT Tolbert reached base on a 2-out single to set the stage for Cullen, who launched a 3-run homer to left center, his first homer of the year. The Mountaineers responded in the top of the third inning with a 3-run home run of their own as Matt Vernon knocked his first homer of the year to left field. The Gamecocks regained the lead in the fifth inning as Jacob Olson belted a solo home run to left. Carolina would then add a run in the frame as Destino lifted a sac fly to left field to score TJ Hopkins to give the Gamecocks a 5-3 advantage. Olson would come through again, this time in the seventh inning with his second homer of the day. Carolina added insurance in the bottom of the eighth as Tolbert singled to right field to score Christian Flint and Carlos Cortes extending the Carolina lead to 8-4. From local and wire reports

TOP FROM PAGE B1 the 16.7 points a game scorer in the lineup, but will likely have little chance of closing on a good note with Weatherspoon on the sideline. South Carolina: The Gamecocks had high hopes for a quick start in the last regular-season home game for seniors Sindarius Thornwell, Duane Notice and Justin McKie. But the trio shot a combined 1 of 11 from the floor for seven points. Thornwell also saw his foul-shooting streak of 32 in a row end with a miss right before halftime. ... South Carolina’s cold start included missing their first 10 3-pointers until PJ Dozier broke the ice with his long-range basket.

UP NEXT Mississippi State closes the regular season at home against LSU on Saturday night. South Carolina finishes the regular season at Mississippi on Saturday night.

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017

THE SUMTER ITEM

RECRUITING

C.E. Murray’s Rush commits to USC for ’18

ide receiver Darius Rush (6-feet2-inches, 180 pounds) of C.E. Murray High School in Greeleyville committed to the University of South Carolina football program on Monday, giving head coach Will Muschamp his first pledge from a member of the 2018 recruiting class. Rush was in Columbia on Saturday for USC’s junior day. He was leaning strongly toward a commitment going into the visit and firmed up his plans with Muschamp on Monday. “I’m really excited right now,” Rush said. “I knew going in to Saturday that I wanted to be a Gamecock. Then hearing how Coach Muschamp feels about me and his plan for me really confirmed everything. I want to be a playmaker at wide receiver. I’m going to come in and learn as much as I can and work hard to be good at it. I spend time all over the field now, so the coaches think I have a lot of upside once I get a chance to focus on one position.” Rush was offered by Muschamp last month. He also had offers from Old Dominion, South Carolina State, Charlotte and Miami (Ohio). Last season, Rush had 1,243 all-purpose yards and 18 touchdowns for CEM. He rushed for 612 yards and 12 scores and caught 14 passes for 228 yards and three touchdowns. He had 36 tackles and two interceptions on defense. Rush actually gives the Gamecocks two commitments for the ‘18 class, joining ‘17 grayshirt defensive end Tyreek Johnson of Lakewood High. The junior day, coupled with the opening of spring practice, left USC in a favorable position with many of its targets. WR Josh Vann (5-11, 175) of Tucker, Ga., came in with offensive lineman teammate Dylan Wonnum, the brother of USC DE DJ Wonnum. Vann got a strong pitch from Muschamp and WR coach Bryan McClendon. After this visit, Vann said he’s down to USC and Georgia with USC out front. He will be visiting UGA at some point, but doesn’t have a date. He wants to make his decision before his senior season. DE Jabari Ellis (6-5, 285) of Georgia Military College and a product of Lake Marion High in Santee, has offers from USC and East Carolina at this point. WR Sam Pinckney (6-4, 205) of Greenwood High has had a USC offer for several months and got another look at the program on Saturday. He also has offers from Florida State, Georgia State and Appalachian State and has drawn interest from North Carolina, Tennessee, Wake Forest, Louisville and Notre Dame. Last season, Pinckney had 72 catches for 1,200 yards and 14 TDs. Linebacker Channing Tindall of Spring Valley High in Columbia also visited USC on Saturday and continues to favor it. He also picked up offers from Florida and North Carolina State last week. Defensive lineman Kelijiah Brown (6-3, 310) of Saluda High is now working on a decision between USC and WF. Defensive back Jaycee Horn (6-1, 170) of Alpharetta, Ga., the son of former National Football League star WR Joe Horn, is being recruited by USC as a cornerback and naturally drifted over to the defensive side of the field to watch the first spring practice. “I liked what I saw,” Horn said. “I like the way (defensive coordinator) Coach (Travaris) Robinson coaches. It seems he has a special relationship with all his corners.” Horn said he will return for a visit to USC and wants to come in for a game as well to see what the gameday atmosphere is like. Horn has visits coming up with Mississippi, Missouri and Louisville, and he wants to visit Virginia Tech and West Virginia. He has been to WF and Georgia Tech.

LB Zakoby McClain (6-2, 200) of Valdosta, Ga., said USC sits firmly in his top 10 after the visit. McClain Phil Kornblut also has in RECRUITING his top list CORNER FSU, Tennessee, Louisiana State, Wisconsin, Auburn, UCLA and Nebraska. He has visited FSU and will go to Auburn on Saturday and might visit LSU after that. DB Bryce Thompson (6-0, 180) of Ben Lippen in Columbia, is a Virginia Tech commitment and remains committed, but USC continues to give him another option to consider. “They are recruiting me for the nickel and safety positions,” Thompson said. “It makes my decision a little bit harder. Now they have come into play and they are the home state, and every recruit always keeps the home state in mind. Right now, there’s a lot thrown at me so I’m not really sure, but as of right now I’m still committed to Virginia Tech.” Thompson is going to Georgia State on Sunday, UGA on March 20 and will visit Michigan in April. He has also visited Clemson, VT and NCSU. Gaffney High WR Dennis Smith picked up his first Power Five offer from USC in early December and Saturday’s visit further established his value in the eyes of Muschamp and company. Smith said he remains open with his thinking and he wants to take as many visits as he can to check out possibilities. He also has been to Duke and is also going to Clemson on Saturday. He’s also considering a visit to ECU on March 11 and UNC on March 25. Smith said he also is in regular contact with Clemson WR coach Jeff Scott. “I haven’t gotten the offer yet, but I feel like they are leaning towards it,” he said. Smith said between USC and Clemson, USC has been recruiting him harder. Smith also has offers from ODU, ECU, Charlotte and Coastal Carolina. OL Casey Holman (6-4, 285) of Snellville, Ga., has been a frequent visitor to USC and Saturday was his first chance to meet new OL coach Eric Wolford. Holman is going to UNC this weekend. He’s also been to Vanderbilt, Duke and Mississippi State. Some of his other offers are Ole Miss, Auburn, Oregon, Florida, VT and Miami. OL Jovaughn Gwyn (6-3, 290) of Charlotte picked up an offer at USC on Saturday, his first from a Southeastern Conference program. He also has offers from Duke, WF, NCSU, and Coastal. He is going to Clemson on Saturday. USC offered DL LaMarius Benson (6-2, 300) of Covington, Ga., on Saturday. “I was amazed about it being my first SEC offer from a school like this,” Benson said. “They said they like the way I play and the way I can move.”

phone: ne 803-236-0803 2 262 south pike west sumter, sc info@iamteamr.com www.iamteamr.com

Benson also has offers from Maryland, GT, Central Florida, Georgia State and Marshall. WR Spencer Gaddis (6-0, 190) of Alpharetta, Ga., has not been offered by USC, but he said WR coach McClendon plans to evaluate him this spring and this season for a possible offer. Gaddis has offers from Utah and Tulane. He also has visited Georgia State and will visit Tulane, Georgia Southern, Ball State and Utah. DB Von Ramsey of Greenwood High (6-0, 170) has not been offered, bus USC is showing interest. He’s also planning to visit Florida, Georgia State, S.C. State and App State. DL Torrion Stevenson (6-1, 316) of Branchville High has not been offered, but is under evaluation by USC. “(Assistant) Coach (Lance) Thompson invited me to the spring game and camps,” Stevenson said. “I liked everything, it was like home.” Stevenson also has been invited to S.C. State for a junior day. Tight end Tyneil Hopper (6-3, 225) of Roswell, Ga., did not pick up an offer on his visit to USC, but remains very interested. “They didn’t say anything about an offer yet, they just said they’ll be recruiting me more,” Hopper said. Hopper is going to Louisville this weekend. He has offers from Kentucky, WF, Louisville, UNC, Illinois, Alabama, Auburn, Georgia State and Massachusetts. USC added another competitor for the placekicking job in Brandon Chiazza (5-11, 170) of Malvern, Pa. He was in Saturday for the junior day and decided to enroll at USC this fall on an academic scholarship and walk-on the football team with a shot at the job. Chiazza also had preferred walk-on offers from Duke and Rutgers. Last season, he was 7-for-9 on field goal attempts with a school record of 49 yards, and he was 37-for-38 on extra points. QB Dakereon Joyner of Fort Dorchester in Summerville was in Columbia on Sunday for the annual High School Sports Report banquet where he received the statewide Offensive Player of the Year award. Joyner also went to the USC women’s basketball game where he sat with Muschamp and offensive coordinator Kurt Roper. He did not make it to Columbia on Saturday because of the death of a close friend, but he said he might get to USC for some spring practices and definitely would be in for the spring game on April 1. “I talk to the coaches often,” he said. “I’ve always liked South Carolina, but I’m starting to hear from a lot more schools. I’m just taking advantage of all my opportunities right now. But they are still recruiting me really hard. I talk with Coach Muschamp as often as I can. Nothing has slacked up at all. They are recruiting me hard and I still have interest in South Carolina.” Joyner has had a stated top five of USC, Louisville, UGA, NCSU and VT, but he said he’s not talking with Louisville any longer, and with recent offers from Oregon and

Mississippi State, he’s not limiting himself to those five any longer. He’s also been talking with Ole Miss. “I just really don’t have a definite top five anymore,” he said. Joyner has also visited NCSU and VT. He said he will be going back to VT and NCSU soon and he is also going to visit UGA and Oregon. As for Clemson, Joyner said he’s decided to move on from the Tigers and is no longer considering them. He remains set to announce his decision on Father’s Day. LB Dax Hollifield of Shelby, N.C., released his top nine schools last week as USC, Alabama, UNC, WF, VT, FSU, Notre Dame, LSU and Stanford. LB Alim McNeill (6-1, 262) of Raleigh, N.C., was a recent recipient of a USC offer. USC joins a growing list of offers for McNeill that includes Penn State, Michigan, Louisville, UK, Duke, NCSU, VT, FSU, Boston College and Tulane. McNeill is planning to be in for the spring game. He’s going to NCSU in two weeks, possibly FSU for a spring practice and Michigan this summer. He also wants to visit PSU, Louisville and UK this summer. He has been to Duke, NCSU, UNC and VT. Last season, McNeill also visited Clemson for the Pittsburgh game. The Tigers have not offered, but remain in contact. Last season, McNeill was in on 94 tackles with 15 QB sacks. He’s also a fullback and scored 14 TDs. WR Jatavious Harris (6-2, 176) of Milledgeville, Ga., has a number of major offers at this point, including USC, Miami, UGA, Tennessee, UF, Iowa, Minnesota and Pitt. USC‘s McClendon is showing a lot of interest in Harris, and he said the two are in regular contact. Harris has visited UGA and Miami and said UGA “wants me bad.” He will visit USC this spring and summer. Harris said he does have a favorite in mind, but doesn’t want to reveal it. His top list right now, is USC, UGA, UF, Pitt, Minnesota, Miami and Iowa. He is planning to be an early graduate.

CLEMSON AND USC DE Xavier Thomas of Florence and IMG confirmed he will make his college decision between Clemson and USC known on his birthday, Dec. 20 and enroll at the school in January of ’18. Thomas has said the Tigers and Gamecocks have 99 percent of his attention with Alabama holding the other one percent. Thomas visited Clemson for a junior day in late January. He and some of his IMG teammates are going on a bus tour this week and one of the stops will be on Thursday at USC, his first visit in Columbia since last season. Thomas has made no secret of the fact he grew up a USC fan and recently revealed that he would already be a USC commitment had former head coach Steve Spurrier not left. However, he also has developed a fondness for Clemson, especially with the opportunity to make an immediate impact for the defending national champion. “He likes South Carolina;

he’s always been leaning towards South Carolina,” said Thomas Balkcom, Thomas’ head coach at Wilson High in Florence. “You can’t deny the fact that Clemson is a top notch, Power Five program. (Head) Coach (Dabo) Swinney and his staff have built that place up and now you have Coach Muschamp and his staff, who are determined to build South Carolina up. “Him being a homegrown product, it’s going to be a big time war for his services. I know that Xavier is a very cerebral kid. He’ll think about it and weigh things out. Who knows what will tip him to either way. If he gives you his word, you can pretty much count on it. He doesn’t say much, so when he does give you his word, you can hold on to that because that’s the type of kid he is.” DL Darnell Jefferies (6-3, 265) of Covington, Ga., visited USC last week and was impressed. “If I had to rate my visit, I would give it a 10,” Jefferies said. He got the opportunity to talk with several of the USC coaches, including Muschamp, Robinson and Thompson. Prior to his visit to USC, Jefferies visited UGA and GT. He was at Alabama on Saturday and was offered by head coach Nick Saban. He also has offers from UGA, GT, Tennessee, Colorado State, WF and VT. Jefferies is going to Clemson on Saturday and he plans to return to USC on Thursday. Clemson and USC target DB Verone McKinley III of Plano, Texas, picked up an offer from UNC. USC jumped on board with its offer earlier this month and McKinley said he has interest in USC. “They do have a shot at getting added to the short list because I have high respect for Coach Robinson,” McKinley said. “And I know about guys like (former USC DBs) DJ Swearinger, Stephon Gilmore and Captain Munnerlyn.” McKinley has a short list of Clemson, Alabama, LSU, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, PSU, Texas A&M and UCLA.

CLEMSON Running back Zamir White of Laurinburg, N.C., released a top four of UGA, Alabama, Clemson and UNC. He listed the schools in that order and his coach was quoted last week as saying UGA is the favorite. He visited UGA earlier this month, his second visit to Athens in as many months. Clemson and UNC are both trying to get him in for a visit this weekend. White has said he will announce his decision on his mother’s birthday, June 27. LB Payton Wilson of Hillsborough, N.C., released his final seven last week of Cemson, Alabama, UGA, Ohio State, PSU, UNC and VT. He plans to be at Clemson’s junior day on Saturday. DB DeMarvion Overshown of Arp, Texas, went to Texas on Saturday. Overshown said he’s heard the most from the coaching staffs at Texas, Alabama and Clemson. Overshown also has an offer from USC along with FSU, A&M, LSU, Alabama, Oklahoma and UCLA among others.

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SPORTS

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017

PALMETTO FROM PAGE B1

At Higher-Seeded Schools First Round Wednesday, March 1 Maine at Vermont, 7 p.m. Binghamton at Stony Brook, 7 p.m. Hartford at Albany (N.Y.), 7:30 p.m. UMBC at New Hampshire, 7:30 p.m. Semifinals Monday, March 6 Lowest-remaining seed at highest-remaining seed, 7 p.m. Second-lowest remaining seed at second-highest remaining seed, 7:30 p.m. Championship Saturday, March 11 Semifinal winners, 11 a.m.

ATLANTIC SUN CONFERENCE

At Higher-Seeded Schools First Round Monday, Feb. 27 Florida Gulf Coast 87, Stetson 57 Kennesaw State 80, South Carolina Upstate 78 North Florida 77, Jacksonville 74 Lipscomb 97, NJIT 66 Semifinals Thursday, March 2 Kennesaw State at Florida Gulf Coast, 7 p.m. North Florida at Lipscomb, 8 p.m. Championship Sunday, March 5 Semifinal winners, 3 p.m.

MISSOURI VALLEY CONFERENCE

AP FILE PHOTO

South Carolina’s Alaina Coates runs back downcourt after scoring two points against Arkansas on Feb. 5 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. for Greensboro, North Carolina. The ACC women’s tournament was to be played there, too, until the league switched to South Carolina. “You never want to benefit from someone else’s misfortune,” Parrish said. “But it is an opportunity.” Parrish gets asked all the time how much the NCAA ban cost the state in lost revenue. “That’s impossible to say. Certainly in the tens of million, could be in the hundreds of millions,” he said. “Now, we’re in the game.” And many think it will stay that way for years to come. South Carolina men’s basketball coach Frank Martin said he’s seen a progressive,

open state since moving here in 2012, one that got lost amid talk of the Confederate flag and the NCAA ban in years past. “We get to host an NCAA tournament,” Martin said. “I think that’s a powerful statement of where we are.”

TV SCHEDULE TODAY

ACC 1 p.m. — Clemson vs. Virginia Tech (Fox Sports Carolinas) 3:30 p.m — Boston College vs. Georgia Tech (Fox Sports Carolinas) 6:30 p.m. — North Carolina vs. Pittsburgh (Fox Sports Carolinas) SEC 11 a.m. — Vanderbilt vs. Alabama (SEC Network) 1 p.m. — Arkansas vs. Florida (SEC Network)

ACC and SEC WOMEN’S TOURNAMENTS ATLANTIC COAST CONFERENCE

At HTC Center Conway, S.C. First Round Wednesday, March 1 Virginia Tech vs. Clemson, 1 p.m. Georgia Tech vs. Boston College, 3:30 p.m. Pittsburgh vs. North Carolina, 6:30 p.m. Second Round Thursday, March 2 Louisville vs. Virginia Tech-Clemson winner, 11 a.m. Virginia vs. Wake Forest, 2 p.m. Miami vs. Georgia Tech-Boston College winner, 6 p.m. Syracuse vs. Pittsburgh-North Carolina winner, 8:30 p.m. Quarterfinals Friday, March 3 N.C. State vs. Louisville_Virginia Tech-Clemson winner, 11 a.m. Notre Dame vs. Virginia-Wake Forest winner, 2 p.m.

Florida State vs. Miami_Georgia Tech-Boston College winner, 6 p.m. Duke vs. Syracuse_Pittsburgh-North Carolina winner, 8:30 p.m. Semifinals Saturday, March 4 N.C. State_Louisville_Virginia TechClemson winner vs. Notre Dame_ Virginia-Wake Forest winner, Noon Florida State_Miami_Georgia TechBoston College winner vs. Duke_ Syracuse_Pittsburgh-North Carolina winner, 2:30 p.m. Championship Sunday, March 5 Semifinal winners, 1 p.m.

SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE

At Bon Secours Wellness Arena Greenville, S.C. First Round Wednesday, March 1 Alabama vs. Vanderbilt, 11 a.m. Florida vs. Arkansas, 1:30 p.m. Second Round Thursday, March 2 Georgia vs. Auburn, Noon

OBITUARIES ABRAHAM MCCRAY Abraham McCray, 73, husband of Catherine Chestnut McCray, died on Friday, Feb. 24, 2017, at Palmetto Health Tuomey. He was born on Aug. 19, 1943, in Gable, a son of the late John McCray Sr. and MCCRAY Viola Rhodes McCray. Abraham was a graduate of Walker Gamble High School in New Zion. At an early age, he gave his life to Christ and joined Melina Presbyterian Church, where he served faithfully as a trustee, president of the young adult choir and chaplain of the male chorus. Abraham was employed at Santee Print Works for 28 years and retired on Dec. 31, 1998. Abraham was united in holy matrimony to Mary Alice Woods. To this union three children were born. Later in life, he met and married Catherine Chestnut McCray. He was preceded in death by a sister, Carolyn White; and two brothers, Whitmore and Raymond McCray.

Tennessee vs. Alabama-Vanderbilt winner, 2:30 p.m. LSU vs. Mississippi, 6 p.m. Texas A&M vs. Florida-Arkansas winner, 8:30 p.m. Quarterfinals Friday, March 3 South Carolina vs. Georgia-Auburn winner, Noon Kentucky vs. Tennessee_AlabamaVanderbilt winner, 2:30 p.m. Mississippi State vs. LSU-Mississippi winner, 6 p.m. Missouri vs. Texas A&M_Florida-Arkansas winner, 8:30 p.m. Semifinals Saturday, March 4 South Carolina_Georgia-Auburn winner vs. Kentucky_Tennessee_Alabama-Vanderbilt winner, 5 p.m. Mississippi State_LSU-Mississippi winner vs. Missouri_Texas A&M_Florida-Arkansas winner, 7:30 p.m. Championship Sunday, March 5 Semifinal winners, 3 p.m.

MATTIE S. HURST Survivors are a devoted wife, Catherine, of the home; a daughter, Yolanda McCray of New York; six sons, John (Valerie) McCray and Daryl (Jackie) McCray of New York, Herbert McCray, Wesley McCray, Lauren McCray and Crandell McCray, all of Sumter; five grandchildren, Cravon, Crandell and Candialayiah, who were reared in the home, and Courtney and Charity; three brothers, James (Mary) McCray of Sumter, Norman (Carolyn) McCray of Miami and Lloyd McCray of Phenix City, Alabama; two sisters, Mary Gamble George of Brooklyn, New York, and Sue M. Collins of Sumter; four brothers-in-law; and a sister-inlaw. Celebratory services for Mr. McCray will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at Melina Presbyterian Church (USA), Gable, with the Rev. Samuel Sparks, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the churchyard cemetery. The family is receiving friends at his residence, 6275 Shetland St., Sumter. These services have been entrusted to Samuels Funeral Home LLC, Manning.

MEN’S TOURNAMENTS AMERICA EAST CONFERENCE

after its legislature moved the Confederate flag, which had been flying atop the Statehouse, to a Confederate soldier’s monument on the grounds, which critics said made the banner even more visible than before. Major conferences like the ACC and SEC largely followed the NCAA’s lead in keeping prominent title games out of the Palmetto State. State lawmakers and leaders were content to let the flag issue lie, and postseason basketball remained out of reach. It took Dylann Roof killing nine black churchgoers at a Bible study in June 2015 to get then-Gov. Nikki Haley and the legisture to take down the Confederate flag, a symbol Roof waved in pictures. In December, a federal jury convicted Roof of murder. He was sentenced to death last month. “From a horrific tragedy, something good has come,” Staley said. “The Charleston Nine, obviously we feel for their families and what happened. But at least it wasn’t all in vain.” Once the flag came down in July 2015, the NCAA withdrew its prohibitions against South Carolina. Parrish said his department quickly met with NCAA leaders to make sure they knew their state would be open for business. He believes arenas in Columbia and Greenville are positioned well for when the NCAA awards venues in its next tournament cycle of 2019-2022. “I would think one or both sites will be used,” he said. Clemson coach Brad Brownell said having the NCAA Tournament back in the state is a selling point to recruits who may have grown up hearing from other coaches about the ban. “It’s something we don’t have to worry about these days,” he said. South Carolina was helped by neighboring North Carolina, which passed a law limiting protections for LGBT people and lost numerous sporting events as a result . The NCAA men’s regional in Greenville was originally set

Mattie Elizabeth “Libby” Sturgeon Hurst, age 79, beloved wife of the late Howell C. Hurst, died on Monday, Feb. 27, 2017, at Palmetto Health Richland. Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced by Bullock Funeral Home.

OLIVER MCCOY JR. Oliver McCoy Jr., 87, husband of Hattie Mae Gregg McCoy, departed this life on Monday, Feb. 27, 2017, at Palmetto Health Tuomey. He was born on Jan. 13, 1930, in Sumter, a son of the

At Scottrade Center St. Louis First Round Thursday, March 2 Evansville vs. Indiana State, 7:05 p.m. Bradley vs. Drake, 9:35 p.m. Quarterfinals Friday, March 3 Illinois State vs. Evansville-Indiana State winner, 1:05 p.m. Southern Illinois vs. Loyola of Chicago, 3:35 p.m. Wichita State vs. Bradley-Drake winner, 7:05 p.m. Northern Iowa vs. Missouri State, 9:35 p.m. Semifinals Saturday, March 4 Illinois State_Evansville-Indiana State winner vs. Southern Illinois-Loyola of Chicago winner, 3:35 p.m. Wichita State_Bradley-Drake winner vs. Northern Iowa-Missouri State winner, 6:05 p.m. Championship Sunday, March 5 Semifinal winners, 2:05 p.m.

NORTHEAST CONFERENCE

At Higher-Seeded Schools First Round Wednesday, March 1 Sacred Heart at Mount St. Mary’s, 7 p.m. Fairleigh Dickinson at Wagner, 7 p.m. Bryant at Saint Francis (Pa.), 7 p.m. Robert Morris at LIU Brooklyn, 9 p.m. Semifinals Saturday, March 4 Lowest-remaining seed at highest-remaining seed, Noon or 2 p.m. Second-lowest remaining at second-highest remaining seed, Noon or 2 p.m. Championship Tuesday, March 7 Semifinal winners, 7 p.m.

PATRIOT LEAGUE

At Higher-Seeded Teams First Round Tuesday, Feb. 28 American at Army, 7 p.m. Lafayette at Loyola (Md.), 7:30 p.m. Quarterfinals Thursday, March 2 Army-American winner at Bucknell, 7 p.m. Loyola (Md.)-Lafayette winner at Boston University, 7 p.m. Colgate at Lehigh, 7 p.m. Holy Cross at Navy, 7 p.m. Semifinals Sunday, March 5 Bucknell_Army-American winner vs. Navy-Holy Cross winner, Noon or 2:30 p.m. Boston University_Loyola (Md.)Lafayette winner vs. Lehigh-Colgate winner, Noon or 2:30 p.m. Championship Wednesday, March 8 Semifinal winners, 7:30 p.m.

SOUTHERN CONFERENCE

At U.S. Cellular Center Asheville, N.C. First Round Friday, March 3 Western Carolina vs. The Citadel, 5 p.m. Samford vs. VMI, 7:30 p.m. Quarterfinals Saturday, March 4 UNC Greensboro vs. Western Carolina-The Citadel winner, Noon Chattanooga vs. Wofford, 2:30 p.m. Furman vs. Samford-VMI winner,

late Oliver Sr. and Juanita Galloway McCoy. The family will receive friends at the home, 1001 Plowden Mill Road, Sumter, SC 29153. Job’s Mortuary Inc., 312 S. Main St., Sumter, is in charge of arrangements.

RUTLEY FOX SR. Rutley Fox Sr., 84, husband of Juanita Spencer Fox, died on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2017, at Palmetto Health Tuomey. Born on Sept. 7, 1932, in Hartsville, he was a son of John and Lillie Johnson Fox. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Williams Funeral Home Inc.

PAULETTE BRYANT Paulette Bryant, 62, wife of Titus Bryant, departed this life on Monday, Feb. 27, 2017,

6 p.m. ETSU vs. Mercer, 8:30 p.m. Semifinals Sunday, March 5 UNC Greensboro_Western Carolina-The Citadel winner vs. Chattanooga-Wofford winner, 5 p.m. Furman_Samford-VMI winner vs. ETSU-Mercer winnner, 7:30 p.m. Championship Monday, March 6 Semifinal winners, 7 p.m.

BIG SOUTH CONFERENCE

First Round Tuesday Feb. 28 Presbyterian at Campbell, 7 p.m. Longwood at Charleston Southern, 7 p.m. At Winthrop Coliseum Rock Hill, S.C. Quarterfinals Thursday, March 2 UNC Asheville vs. CampbellPresbyterian winner, 1 p.m. Liberty vs. Radford, 3:30 p.m. Winthrop vs. Charleston Southern-Longwood winner, 7 p.m. Gardner-Webb vs. High Point, 9:30 p.m. Semifinals Friday, March 3 UNC Asheville_Campbell-Presbyterian winner vs. Liberty-Radford winner, 6 p.m. Winthrop_Charleston SouthernLongwood winner vs. GardnerWebb-High Point winner, 8:30 p.m. Championship At Higher-Seeded School Sunday, March 5 Semifinal winners, 1 p.m.

COLONIAL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

At North Charleston Coliseum North Charleston, S.C. First Round Friday, March 3 Hofstra vs. Delaware, 6 p.m. James Madison vs. Drexel, 8:30 p.m. Quarterfinals Saturday, March 4 UNC Wilmington vs. Hofstra-Delaware winner, Noon William & Mary vs. Elon, 2:30 p.m. College of Charleston vs. James Madison-Drexel winner, 6 p.m. Towson vs. Northeastern, 8:30 p.m. Semifinals Sunday, March 5 UNC Wilmington_Hofstra-Delaware winner vs. William & MaryElon winner, 2 p.m. College of Charleston_James Madison-Drexel winner vs. TowsonNortheastern winner, 4:30 p.m. Championship Monday, March 6 Semifinal winners, 7 p.m.

HORIZON LEAGUE

At Joe Louis Arena Detroit First Round Friday, March 3 Detroit vs. Milwaukee, 5:30 p.m. Cleveland State vs. Youngstown State, 8 p.m. Second Round Saturday, March 4 Oakland vs. Cleveland StateYoungstown State winner, 5:30 p.m. Valparaiso vs. Detroit-Milwaukee winner, 8 p.m. Third Round Sunday, March 5 Green Bay vs. UIC, 5 p.m. Northern Kentucky vs. Wright State, 7:30 p.m. Semifinals Monday, March 6 Oakland_Cleveland StateYoungstown State winner vs. Northern Kentucky-Wright State winner, 7 p.m. Valparaiso_Detroit-Milwaukee winner vs. Green Bay-UIC winner, 9:30 p.m. Championship Tuesday, March 7 Semifinal winners, 7 p.m.

METRO ATLANTIC ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

At The Times Union Center Albany, N.Y. First Round Thursday, March 2 Quinnipiac vs. Niagara, 5 p.m. Canisius vs. Marist, 7:30 p.m. Rider vs. Manhattan, 10 p.m. Quarterfinals Friday, March 3 Monmouth vs. Quinnipiac-Niagara winner, 7 p.m. Saint Peter’s vs. Canisius-Marist winner, 9:30 p.m. Saturday, March 4 Iona vs. Rider-Manhattan winner, 7 p.m. Siena vs. Fairfield, 9:30 p.m. Semifinals Sunday, March 5 Monmouth_Quinnipiac-Niagara winner vs. Siena-Fairfield winner, 4:30 p.m. Saint Peter’s_Canisius-Marist winner vs. Iona_Rider-Manhattan winner, 7 p.m. Championship Monday, March 6 Semifinal winners, 9 p.m.

at Palmetto Health Tuomey. She was born on Aug. 15, 1954, in Bronx, New York, a daughter of the late Evan and Carmen Green Bryant. The family will receive friends at the home, 1155 Warwick Drive, Sumter, SC 29154. Job’s Mortuary Inc., 312 S. Main St., Sumter, is in charge of arrangements.

PRISCILLA RUSS Priscilla Russ, 58, died on Monday, Feb. 27, 2017, at Palmetto Health Tuomey. Born on June 30, 1958, in Sumter County, she was a daughter of Josh Frazier Jr. and Rosa Mae Vaughn Frazier. The family is receiving family and friends at the home, 4795 Chanson Lane. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Williams Funeral Home Inc.

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HAVE YOU SEEN ME? If you have any information on Barbara's whereabouts, contact Sumter County Sheriff's dept 803-436-2000 or Crime Stoppers 803-436-2718.

Lost & Found Found Large brown Dog, gentle nature, has collar Call to identify 803-316-5961

BUSINESS SERVICES Concrete Jim's Brick & Concrete Works House floors, Patios, Driveways ETC...803-236-0590 Call anytime

Health Service/ Medical Custom built, lightweiaght, easy turn, wheelchair $300 2 shower chairs never used 1 with drop arms $25 each.

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

Lawn Service Clary Lawn Service Bushhog & 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 A Notch Above Tree Care Full quality service low rates, lic./ins., free est BBB accredited 983-9721 Ricky's Tree Service Tree removal, stump grinding, Lic & ins, free quote, 803-435-2223 or cell 803-460-8747.

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

Open every weekend. Call 803-494-5500 Family Sale 350 Trailwood Dr Sat 8-1 Cash, Debit, CC accepted, patio set , treadmill, kit table set, Qn bed, small kit appl. & more!

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 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. 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 Looking for full time experienced carpenters, roofers, dry wall repair, ect. Pay determined on experienced. Call 803-968-4718 or 646-457-9318 for interview and more information. Cashier needed full time. Must have some computer knowledge, be self-motivated, dependable & energetic. Apply at Wally's Hardware from 1pm-3pm, 1291 Broad St. 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!

Help Wanted Part-Time Camp Bob Cooper (Clemson University Youth Learning Institute), Summerton, SC is now hiring for Part-Time Food Service Workers, no more than 28 hours per week, $7.25/hr. Shifts vary; some weekends. Must have a valid driver's license and be able to pass a background check. Please Call: 803-478-2105 Clemson University is an Equal Opportunity Employer Part time help wanted Children's coordinator - This position should be filled by a person who is raised in the church and experienced an active children's ministry. The candidate should have a strong Christian background and have recommendation of their pastor. The position involves taking the children from Sunday service and conducting Children's church. We also have monthly planned activities to include trips to places of interest. We are budgeting this position at $14 an hour and $4000 annually. Please send resume to St. John UMC, 136 Poinsett Drive, Sumter Sc, 29150 or call 803-773-8185 for further information. Looking for experienced lawn care person, must have drivers license, and experience with lawn care equipment. Call 803-469-8377

Miscellaneous

RENTALS

2BR/2BA, Willow Run Apt., 900sqft, clean, washer & dryer included. $550+$550 deposit. Background check required and references, no housing. Call Kim 803-294-0925 Senior Living Apartments for those 62+ (Rent based on income) Shiloh-Randolph Manor 125 W. Bartlette. 775-0575 Studio/1 Bedroom apartments available EHO Oakland Plantation Apts. 5501 Edgehill Rd 499-2157 Applications accepted Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. 1, 2 & 3 bedroom Apts. Housing for families, seniors, and persons with disabilities. Limited rental assistance available for qualified applicants. Housing office vouchers accepted. •Central heat/air •Carpet/blinds •Refrigerator/stove •Smoke free community 2- 3BR/1BA Apts for rent. Kitchen, den, LR $550 Mo.+ Dep. Call 775-6228 or 983-3401

Unfurnished Homes 3BR/2BA DW, large private lot, between Sumter and Manning. $600mo+$600dep Call 803-473-7577 1250 Coffey St. Brick 3BR/1BA, C /H/A, no pets, $550+Dep. Call 803-316-8105

Mobile Home Rentals

STATEBURG COURTYARD 2 & 3 Br, Sec. 8 803-494-4015 Oaklawn MHP: 2 BR M.H.'s, water//sewer//garbage pk-up incl'd. RV parking avail. Call 803-494-8350 American MHP, 2 & 3/BR, lot rentals, water/sewer/garbage pkup inc'd. Sec. 8 ok. 803-494-4300. 2BR 1BA S/W in Windsor City for rent. $450 mo. + dep. 464-5559 or 795-6569

New & used Heat pumps & A/C. Will install/repair, Call 803-968-9549 or 843-992-2364

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. Notice Of Application Notice is hereby given that MAA Khodiyar of Sumter, LLC DBA Munn-E-Saver #2 intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a license permit that will allow the sale and OFF premises consumption of Beer & Wine at 741 N. Main Street, Sumter, SC 29150. To object to the issuance of this permit / license, written protest must be postmarked no later than March 17, 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

Autos For Sale

Homes for Sale

30 plus years experience

2000sqft, 3BR/2BA, large family room, living room,dining room, fenced in yard, add on playroom & new heat pump. $99k Call 803-840-5201

Hours: Monday - Friday 10AM - 6PM Saturday 10AM - 2PM

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

ALL VEHICLES UNDER 10K This Week’s Cash Special

2006 Subaru Outback

TRANSPORTATION

Medical Help Wanted 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

Autos For Sale

$3999.00

1988 Chevy Van wheelchair lift 88335K mi. $2200 Call 803-775-9083

Tax, Tag & Doc Fee Extra

3735 Broad Street Sumter, SC 29154 803-494-4247 Julia Hair, President

971 Blvd Rd FWB Church fundraiser March 2,3,4 7:30am-? hot dogs, drinks, sweets.

For Sale or Trade

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

REAL ESTATE

Estate Sale 157 Pine Bay Rd Lake City SC March 3rd & 4th 8am-?

Moving -Must Sell! Riding lawn mower $500 Outdoor grill $85 Schwinn Airdyne Exercise bike(older model) $150 obo. Call 803-468-5643

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, ABL, P.O. Box 125, Columbia, South Carolina 29214-0907; or Faxed to: (803) 896-0110.

Unfurnished Apartments 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

1 Bedroom Apartments for 62 YEARS AND OLDER •Refrigerator •Central Heat & Air •Community Room •Coin Operated •Handicap •Range Laundry Room Accessible •Blinds •Emergency Call •Carpet •Ceiling Fans System **Rent Based On 30% of Adjusted Income** **Utility Allowance Given**

Southview 60 Hilliard Drive • Sumter, S.C. 29150 For application or information, please call

803-934-1449 TTY 800-735-8583

Beer & Wine License

Bid Notices INVITATION TO BID The County of Sumter is soliciting separate sealed bids from qualified vendors for the following project: Dillon Park Walking Track Bids will be received until 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, March 15, 2017 in the Sumter County Purchasing Department on the second floor of the Sumter County Administration Building, 13 East Canal Street, Sumter, South Carolina 29150. Plans and bid documents may be obtained from: Sumter County Purchasing Department 13 E Canal Street Sumter, South Carolina 29150 Telephone inquiries should be made to (803) 436-2329. The County of Sumter reserves the right to reject any or all bids. The County of Sumter reserves the right to waive any or all technicalities. Notice: Return bid envelopes must be clearly marked: "Dillon Park Walking Track"

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.

Summons & Notice 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

Summons & Notice 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

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

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

COUNTY OF SUMTER BUSINESS LICENSES The County of Sumter Ordinance regulating licenses for County businesses states that “Every person engaged or intending to engage in any calling, business, occupation or profession within the limits of the County of Sumter, South Carolina is required to pay an annual license fee and obtain a business license.” “The required license fee shall be paid for each business subject thereto according to the applicable rate classiﬁcation on or before the 15th day of March each year.” A 5% PENALTY WILL BE ASSESSED ON ALL LICENSE FEES WHICH ARE NOT PAID BY THE 15TH OF MARCH, AND AN ADDITIONAL 5% PENALTY WILL BE ASSESSED ON THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH THAT THE LICENSE FEE REMAINS UNPAID. If any license fee shall remain unpaid for sixty (60) days after its due date, the Business License Department shall issue an execution which shall constitute a lien upon the property of the licensee for the tax, penalties and costs of collection.” If you do not receive an application in the mail, please stop by our ofﬁce at 12 W. Liberty Street in the Liberty Center (the old Brody bldg) or give us a call at 774-1601. We will be available to assist you with your application or answer any questions you might have.

SECTION

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017 Call Ivy Moore at: (803) 774-1221 | E-mail: ivy@theitem.com

SUMTER ITEM FILE PHOTOS

James H. “Jimmy” Mills speaks to the audience at Patriot Hall during a recent concert by the Sumter Community Concert Band, which he directs. The band will present its spring concert Sunday at Patriot Hall.

Community band welcomes early spring Sunday concert is 1st of 2017 BY IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com

he Sumter Community Concert Band

Director Jimmy Mills takes the flute and trombone sections through a rehearsal in the bandroom at Patriot Hall. Mills will lead the full band in its spring concert Sunday afternoon in the Patriot Hall auditorium.

WANT TO JOIN THE BAND? There is no audition, but musicians must be at least 18 years old and able to read music and must have played in a high school or college band. CONTACT: Rick Mitchum, spokesman for the band, at (803) 775-9265.

WANT TO ATTEND THE CONCERT? WHERE: Patriot Hall, 135 Haynsworth St. WHEN: 3 p.m. Sunday COST: Free

doesn't have to apol-

ogize for offering its spring concert two weeks before the actual solstice — even the TV weathermen think spring is here to stay. So why not celebrate the recent temperate weather with some good, live music? The band under the direction of James H. "Jimmy" Mills will take the stage of Patriot Hall at 4 p.m. Sunday to offer a variety of tunes, several of which are based on the universal theme of love. And of course, as Alfred, Lord Tennyson wrote, "In the Spring a young man's fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love." Rick Mitchum, spokesman for the SCCB, said the band will play one of the songs most

evocative desire i off the h d i ffor llove, George and Ira Gershwin's "Someone to Watch Over Me." "The arrangement is beautiful," said Mitchum, who also plays trumpet in the band, "and it will feature Dr. Bob Lee on alto sax. This is one of those songs that has stayed popular" since it first came out in 1926 in the Gershwins' musical comedy, "Oh, Kay!" Gioachino Rossini's overture to his one-act opera La cambiale di matrimonio is a salute of sorts to marital love. Translated as "The Marriage Contract," the farcical piece shows up later, in part, in Rossini's famous "The Barber of Seville." Tim Wilson will play the French horn solo. Ennio Morricone's "Gabriel's Oboe" is not a love song, but as the main theme of the 1986 religious film, "The Mission," it

was nominated Oscar i d ffor an O and several other awards. Mitchum said SCCB member "Mallory Bocknecht has a gorgeous oboe solo." "Shoutin' Liza Trombone" will get the trombone section up front for the humorous and challenging piece by Henry Fillmore. Trombonists are Carl Scales, who is the music teacger at Alice Drive Middle School; Steve Rollins; Victor Wesley; and the versatile, longtime SCCB member, Ray Graham. Mitchum noted that Sunday's concert will be the last for Graham, who is moving to Nashville. The theme to the animated film "Up," composed by Michael Giacchino and arranged by Michael Brown, features two trumpet solos, one by Robert Berry, and the other by Mitchum. Titled "Married Life," it's

also about love and commitment. A medley of enduring songs, arranged by Warren Barker, is sure to bring back memories — and maybe even a desire to sing along. Featured songs include "Peg of My Heart," "I Want a Girl Just Like the Girl that Married Dear Old Dad" and "By the Light of the Silvery Moon." One of the SCCB's favorite composer/bandleaders will be saluted in the medley titled "In the Miller Mood." Listen for such tunes as "In the Mood," "Anvil Chorus," "Serenade in Blue," "At Last" and the SCCB Jazz Band theme song, "Moonlight Serenade." "American Salute" by Morton Gould features variations

on the tune of "When Johnny Comes Marching Home." Mitchum said the "melody moves around in the different sections of the band." A relatively new piece with a faster tempo titled "Clouds that Sail in Heaven" is described as "a concert fanfare based on the hymn ' All Creatures of Our God and King.’" There are several more pieces in Sunday's concert, as well, Mitchum said. Admission to the Sumter Community Concert Band is free. The 45-plus member band is still looking for new members, Mitchum said. He said there is no audition, but musicians must be at least 18 years old and able to read music, and must have played in a high school or college band. This 3 p.m. Sunday concert is the band's first in 2017. The final performance of the 201617 season will be presented on May 14. All SCCB concerts are presented at Patriot Hall, 135 Haynsworth St.

Thorny mystery plant still growing strong in Paris after 380 years BY JOHN NELSON Curator, USC Herbarium I love Paris in the winter when it drizzles. — Cole Porter You need to go to Paris sometime, and it doesn’t matter which part of the year. Of course, it is a big city, but it is not hard to become lost in its charm and in places where the tourists don’t end up. A couple of years ago I was in Paris on a chilly spring break, and of course, as a botanist had to pay homage to the fantastic natural history museum (https://www.mnhn.fr/en), its gardens and its world-renowned herbarium. Its collections contain many specimens of plants from the Southeast, collected in the 17th and 18th centuries, including those of Andre Michaux, famous botanist who resided in Charleston and who studied much of the plant life in South Carolina. But after a long morning of studying old plant specimens, my charming host, Gerard Aymonin, decided that the visiting American needed to see something growing — a tree just outside. And what a tree it was! One of the oldest trees in all of Paris, it was our Mystery

PHOTO PROVIDED

USC Herbarium Curator John Nelson took this photo of this week’s mystery plant, a tree that produces some of the hardest wood in the U.S. One planted in Paris in 1636 is still growing. Its thorns can inflict serious pain. Plant, planted in 1636, and still chugging along, although partially fallen and otherwise propped up with supports. An amazing sight in the drizzle. This is a tree which at maturity is

usually a bit stunted and curved. Although not considered a primary source of lumber, its wood is one of the hardest of any species in North America. Historically, this wood was used for planking and beams, and it also makes a really durable fence post. The leaves are compound, each producing a long rachis with 7-9 leaflets on each side, plus one at the end. At the base of each leaf will be a pair of pliable, green, horn-like stipules. The stipules persist throughout the growing season and even after the associated leaves have fallen, at which time the horn-like growths become woody and hardened, very effective as sharp thorns. These “stipular spines,” as we botanists call them, are variably abundant on different individuals and at different ages. Rapidly growing sucker branches typically have lots of spines, while new growth on upper branches usually produces few. This species blooms generally in late spring, producing handsome, white sweet-pea shaped blossoms, many held together in a loose raceme and dangling. The flowers at the height of blooming are quite fragrant. As a member of the bean family, it produces legumes as its fruit type. In this case,

they are flat, papery pods, about 3 inches long, containing a number of hard, black seeds. Our Mystery Plant tree is native to North America, presumed to have a rather odd distribution. It is widespread in the Appalachians, and then jumps over to the Ozark Plateau of Arkansas and Oklahoma. But it can be found widely in North America, surely as a “wild” plant, and this suggests that it is somewhat invasive, or at least a bit rambunctious. It is indeed something of a weed, commonly growing in disturbed places, sprouting readily unless the seeds land in shade. Of course, the plants are often planted intentionally, and that helps it to spread. Including in Paris. Answer: “Black locust,” Robinia pseudoacacia John Nelson is the curator of the A.C. Moore Herbarium at the University of South Carolina in the Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia SC 29208. As a public service, the Herbarium offers free plant identifications. For more information, visit www.herbarium.org, call (803) 777-8196, or email nelson@sc. edu.

At Your Service Home Care Your Concierge

With a locally practicing physician and local medical equipment specialist at the helm, AYSHC has combined expertise in health care and see the growth of the aging population within their own community.

1250 Wilson Hall Rd | Sumter, SC 29150

Personal Assistance for safe daily living VA, Medicaid, Long Term Insurance Provider www.ays-homecare.com 37 W. Rigby St | Manning, SC 29102

803-607-9677

COMICS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 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

Woman weighs reaching out to abused neighbor DEAR ABBY — I have always tried to be a compassionate person. I have experienced a lot of abuse, and Dear Abby I’m sensitive ABIGAIL to others who go VAN BUREN through it. A man across the street from me has been arrested three times in the last six months for domestic abuse. I rarely see a woman there, so I don’t know if the victim is a woman or a child. I moved into the neighborhood only six months ago. My elderly mother lives here with me. I’m torn about what to do. My heart says I should reach

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

out to the people who live there and make friends with them. My head says stay out of their business because I don’t need the drama. How do we as a society not turn a blind eye to abuse in our neighborhoods and still protect ourselves and loved ones? I don’t want to put my mother or myself in jeopardy, but I don’t want the person / people in that house to think they are alone. No more in Texas DEAR NO MORE — While I applaud you for being so caring, for your own safety, I caution you to proceed very slowly in getting to know these people. Some communities provide anonymous tip lines so citizens can report a crime without endangering

THE DAILY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

themselves or their families. The best thing you can do is to keep your eyes open and if something is happening, call the police and report it. If it involves a child, contact child protective services. DEAR ABBY — Can an atheist be a godparent? Wondering in Wisconsin DEAR WONDERING — Yes. Today, the word “godparent” does not always have explicitly religious overtones. A godparent can be anyone the parents trust to take care of their child in the event of the parents’ deaths. However, the potential godparents and the child’s parents should discuss this in detail before any decision is made about conferring such an honor and responsibility.

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

By Ed Sessa

ACROSS 1 Article 5 Die down 8 Military action toys 14 Something frowned upon 15 Graphic introduction? 16 Harm 17 *U.S. Steel co-founder 19 Roofer’s supply 20 “August: __ County”: Meryl Streep film 21 Spinal column part 23 Words on a candy heart 25 “CHiPs” co-star Erik 27 Newspaper VIPs 28 Crèche figure 31 Like Parmesan cheese 32 “Didn’t I tell you?” 33 Peas, for shooters 34 Racetrack equipment 36 *”Whiplash” Best Supporting Actor 38 Wealthy campaign donor 41 Picture framing materials 42 Orch. section

3/1/17 45 “It’s not too early to call” 46 Sprain support 47 Dove’s call 48 New York brewery known for its cream ale 51 College choices 54 Turncoat 57 “Pardon me,” in Palermo 58 Singer Warwick 59 *Peter Pan creator 61 “Imagine so” 62 Bird on Australia’s coat of arms 63 Some celebs have delicate ones 64 “Almost ready” 65 Dollop 66 Took off DOWN 1 Humor for a select few 2 On the open deck 3 All together 4 Classic music synthesizers 5 __ McMuffin 6 Cleaver nickname 7 Talus or radius 8 Central points 9 Small bay 10 *“Lost” co-creator

11 Serious injustice 12 What may be charged for books? 13 French possessive 18 Sleep acronym 22 Pickett’s Charge soldier 24 Nightmare loc. of film 26 Website pop-ups, e.g. 29 Bordeaux buddy 30 Matriarchal nickname 33 Wanted poster initials 34 __ pole 35 MetLife’s business: Abbr. 36 *Retail chain founder 37 AAA handout 38 Newton fruit

39 Explorer Vespucci for whom the New World was named 40 Turn a deaf ear to 42 Cause of calamity 43 Twisting force 44 Most cheerful 46 Twinings product 49 Sixth __ 50 Cast out 52 Simile words 53 Clothing chain ... or what the answers to starred clues comprise? 55 Played mixes at mixers, briefly 56 Jane Austen novel 58 Racket 60 Mac

Tuesday’s Puzzle Solved

3/1/17

TELEVISION

THE SUMTER ITEM TW FT

7 PM

7:30

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017 10 PM

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NBC adds new series to its ‘Chicago’ franchise BY KEVIN MCDONOUGH A tragedy with a comedian at its center, “National Treasure” (TV-14) is not to be missed. Hulu will stream this four-part British series beginning today. Robbie Coltrane (“Cracker,” “GoldenEye,” the “Harry Potter” franchise) stars as Paul Finchley, a beloved television comedian whose life unravels when he is accused of raping a teenager on the set of a movie some 25 years ago. Coltrane perfectly captures the essence of a beloved has-been, a man everybody seems to remember from their childhood, a catchphrase-dispensing legend who launched a thousand repeats on late-night television. An obese man who walks with a cane, he’s first seen at a gala event presenting a lifetime achievement award to his comedy partner. He’s both esteemed and slightly invisible, a symbol of the media’s past in a roomful of

go-getters. He’d be pitiful if he weren’t so famous, and presumably rich. “Treasure” does a great job of showing how accusations turn this “harmless” old man into a notorious figure. Gradually his beloved and devout wife (Julie Walters), drug-addicted daughter (Andrea Riseborough), fans and the audience begin to wonder just how much they can know about Finchley, or for that matter, anyone. • A warehouse conflagration on “Chicago Fire” (8 p.m., NBC, TV-14) sends Olinsky’s daughter to the hospital on “Chicago P.D.” (9 p.m., NBC, TV14), setting up the debut of “Chicago Justice” (10 p.m., NBC, TV-14). This new installment of producer Dick Wolf’s “Chicago” franchise stars Philip Winchester as ambitious prosecutor Peter Stone, who clashes with Cook County State’s Attorney Mark Jefferies (Carl Weathers), a man more

steeped in local politics than seeking justice. • Conan O’Brien hosts a prime-time special, “Conan Without Borders: Made in Mexico” (10 p.m., TBS, TV-14). His efforts at cross-border diplomacy include hiring a Mexican crew and staff and inviting “Star Wars: Rogue One” star Diego Luna and former Mexican President Vicente Fox to be his guests. While this event is rooted in topicality and controversy, “Conan” has been visiting foreign locales for years, most recently Cuba and South Korea.

TONIGHT’S OTHER HIGHLIGHTS • A new development threatens the future on “Star” (9 p.m., Fox, TV-14). • Sadie begins to wonder about Billy’s story on “Doubt” (10 p.m., CBS, TV-14). • “UConn: The March to Madness” (10

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p.m., HBO, TV-PG) follows the University of Connecticut women’s basketball team as it pursues a fifth consecutive national championship. • A rescue mission forces team members to face their doubts about Rip on “Six” (10 p.m., History, TV-14). • David’s friends search for answers on “Legion” (10 p.m., FX, TV-MA). • A bachelor party to forget on “Man Seeking Woman” (10:30 p.m., FXX, TVMA).

CULT CHOICE A traumatized police detective (Jimmy Stewart) falls under the spell of a woman (Kim Novak) who is more than she seems in the 1958 psychological thriller “Vertigo” (10 p.m., TCM). Released to mixed reviews, this Alfred Hitchcock classic now tops some critics’ lists as the greatest movie ever made.

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Meatballs — one of the heartiest meals BY SARA MOULTON The Associated Press

BETTER MEATBALLS

fter the Mona Lisa, Italy's most beloved and enduring gift to world culture

might be the meatball. But talk to any two Italian cooks about which ingredients actually comprise a meatball, and you're going to get an argument. Fine. I took this contentiousness as a license to concoct a meatball recipe of my own using the best tips from Italian friends and colleagues. Let's start with the meat in this meatball. Ideally, it should be an equal mix of beef, pork and veal, allowing each one to contribute its own unique flavor and texture. If you can't find ground veal at your supermarket, opt for the meatloaf mix, which contains all three meats. If there's no ground veal and no meatloaf mix, you'll be fine with half pork and half beef. To amp up the flavor to an even higher level, I've prescribed several umami bombs: prosciutto, Parmigiano-Reggiano and tomato paste. And of course, minced garlic. Tradition requires meatballs to be cooked well done, which can make them dry. Accordingly, I've combined the meat mixture with a panade. Panade, a paste made of breadcrumbs soaked in milk, keeps the meat juicy as the meatballs cook. Of course, when you make meatballs, you want them to retain their shape. A raw egg helps to bind the ingredients, but you also want to be sure to mix them rigorously, either in a stand mixer or with your hands. Refrigerating the meatballs for 30 minutes before sauteing them also helps. The finishing touch is to simmer the meatballs in the tomato sauce. This process allows for an exchange of flavors. Indeed, I think of it as a marriage. Both the meatballs and the sauce benefit greatly. There won't be much argument at the table about its deliciousness.

Start to finish: 2 hours, 15 minutes (1 hour, 15 minutes active) Servings: 6 3/4 cup fresh bread crumbs 1/2 cup whole milk 1/2 pound ground beef (85 percent lean) 1/2 pound ground pork 1/2 pound ground veal 2 ounces prosciutto, finely chopped 2 ounces finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, plus extra for garnish 1 large egg 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 teaspoons minced garlic 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 3 tablespoons vegetable oil plus extra for cooking the little patty 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup red wine Marinara Sauce (recipe below) or 5 cups store-bought marinara 1 pound spaghetti Chopped fresh parsley for garnish In the bowl of a stand mixer, soak the bread crumbs in the milk for 20 minutes. Add the ground beef, pork, veal, prosciutto, Parmigiano-Reggiano, egg, tomato paste, garlic, salt and pepper, and using a paddle attachment, beat the mixture for 1 minute or until it is very well mixed. (Note: If you don't have a stand mixer, just mix all the ingredients well with your hands for about 3 minutes.) Pinch off a little bit of the meat mixture, form it into a patty, and in a small skillet saute it until it is cooked through. Taste and add more salt and pepper, if desired. Scoop out the mixture, preferably using a 1-ounce ice cream scoop, and roll into balls. (If you don't have an ice cream scoop, roll the meat into walnut-size balls.) Chill for 30 minutes. In a large skillet, heat half the oil over medium-high heat. Toss half the meatballs in the flour, shaking off the excess, and add them to the hot oil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the meatballs, shaking the pan and turning them gently until they are browned on several sides. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat the procedure with the remaining flour, oil and meatballs. Add the wine to the skillet and simmer it, scraping up the brown bits, until it is reduced by half. In a large saucepan combine the meatballs with the marinara and the reduced wine. Bring the liquid just up to a boil, turn it down to a simmer ,and simmer it gently, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes.

SPEEDY MARINARA SAUCE Makes: About 5 cups 4 large garlic cloves, smashed 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes 2 (28-ounce) cans plum tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted), chopped Kosher salt In an unheated medium saucepan, combine the garlic and the oil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, turning over the garlic several times, until it is just golden, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the red pepper flakes and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Add the tomatoes and a hefty pinch of salt, bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and cook at a brisk simmer until the sauce is reduced to about 5 cups, 20 to 25 minutes. Discard the garlic. Season with salt to taste. Nutrition information per serving of the meatballs: 739 calories; 223 calories from fat; 25 g fat (8 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 128 mg cholesterol; 874 mg sodium; 78 g carbohydrate; 4 g fiber; 5 g sugar; 43 g protein. Nutrition information per serving of the sauce: 628 calories; 346 calories from fat; 38 g fat (5 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 0 mg cholesterol; 493 mg sodium; 48 g carbohydrate; 18 g fiber; 27 g sugar; 10 g protein.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Sara Moulton is host of public TV's "Sara's Weeknight Meals." She was executive chef at Gourmet magazine for nearly 25 years and spent a decade hosting several Food Network shows, including "Cooking Live." Her latest cookbook is "Home Cooking 101."

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