December 30, 2015

IN SPORTS: Sumter boys top Latta; girls earn title berth

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Pose for effect Interactive exhibition at Patriot Hall puts students in the great masterpieces C1

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Sheriff seeks info in southside shooting FROM STAFF REPORTS Sumter County Sheriff ’s Office is seeking information regarding a shooting that occurred Tuesday afternoon leaving one man hospitalized with multiple gunshot wounds.

At about 2 p.m., officers received a call of shots fired inside a building at 640 B Manning Ave. and discovered the 37-year-old male victim upon arrival, according to a news release from the sheriff ’s office.

The victim was transported to Tuomey Regional Medical Center by

Drinking safely for New Year

Sumter County Emergency Medical Services prepares to load a patient in an ambulance in the 600 block of South Manning Avenue on Tuesday afternoon.

Sumter County Emergency Medical Services for treatment and was in stable condition as of Tuesday evening, according to Major Allen Dailey.

Upon a preliminary investigation, witnesses said they heard numerous gunshots in the incident location and saw two unidentified black males running away from the scene.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Sumter County Sheriff ’s Office at (803) 436-2000 or CrimeStoppers at (803) 773-1100.

RICK CARPENTER / THE SUMTER ITEM

Christmas a perfect time for a … car wash?

Police stepping up checkpoints

BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com With 2016 right around the corner, local law enforcement agencies encourage area residents to be safe and responsible on the roads while ringing in the new year.

Sumter Police Department Public Information Officer Tonyia McGirt said officers will have extra patrols and check points on New Year’s Eve. She said the department will be working alongside Sumter County Sheriff’s Office and South Carolina Highway Patrol to monitor the roadways.

The goal is to have zero fatalities, McGirt said.

She encourages those planning to celebrate the holiday on Thursday night to have a designated driver.

The designated driver should be someone who does not drink at all that night, she said.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 30 Americans die every day as a result of vehicle wrecks involving an impaired driver.

Between 2002 and 2012, 3,870 people were killed in wrecks involving drunk drivers in South Carolina, according to the CDC. The CDC’s website states

KEITH GEDAMKE / THE SUMTER ITEM

SEE NEW YEAR, PAGE A6

Dakota Williams, 10, plays in the foam generated while washing the family’s car on Christmas Day. All over Sumter, self-wash car washes had lines of cars waiting.

NAACP donates $1,200 to local humanitarian organizations

BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com Four local humanitarian organizations each received checks for $300 from National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Sumter Branch, Tuesday morning for assisting Sumter residents after the October flood.

Elizabeth Kilgore, president of Sumter Branch of NAACP, presented the checks to Sumter United Ministries,

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First Presbyterian Church ministries and the local Salvation Army and American Red Cross branches during a short ceremony at Sumter County Courthouse.

KILGORE She commented that Sumter Branch of NAACP does not usually give out donations but felt compelled to make an exception because of the assistance provided by the agencies.

These four organizations are in the business of helping those in need whenever and wherever possible, she said.

Some do not understand how greatly families have been affected by the storm, Kilgore said.

Kilgore said she is proud of Sumter Branch of NAACP executive committee for stepping up and suggesting that donations be given to the agencies.

Sumter County Councilman Eugene Baten, a member of the executive committee, said the members came to-

DEATHS, B5 Stanley D. Frankenstein Rosetta D. Harris Kenneth G. Duke Dorothy Duda Henry W. Mathis Jr.

William L. Ervin Robert L. Walker Minnie I. Sanders-Miller Myrtle Blanding Tessy G. Dewil

gether and suggested the Sumter branch show its appreciation for the agencies that have worked hard to help families recover.

“It’s important to give something back,” he said.

Mark Champagne, executive director of Sumter United Ministries, said the donation could not have come at a better time.

He said United Ministries will soon

SEE NAACP, PAGE A6

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

STATE BRIEFS

First Day Hikes will be held in Lee, Olanta

FROM WIRE REPORTS

Police: 1986 fugitive caught in S.C. SURFSIDE BEACH — A fugitive from North Carolina who had been on the run for nearly 30 years has been arrested in Surfside Beach.

Seventy-one-year-old James Edward Coe was arrested by Horry County police Sunday morning for shoplifting, multiple news media outlets reported. Records from North Carolina Department of Corrections show Coe had escaped a North Carolina prison on June 23, 1986.

Coe was convicted in April 1984 on two counts of receiving stolen goods in Forsyth and Stokes County. Court records show Coe’s expected release date was in November 1989.

Coe was arrested Sunday for stealing jewelry from a flea market, a police report said.

Authorities said Coe walked away with the jewelry and then sold the stolen item to another vendor.

The suspect denied taking the item and didn’t have a state ID, the report said. Police said the suspect provided his information, which revealed him as a wanted man.

Coe was denied bond Monday and will be extradited to North Carolina.

11 rescued animals die in Richland house fire IRMO — Nearly a dozen rescued animals have died in a Christmas Day fire at a home in Richland County.

WLTX-TV reports that Lane Crenshaw and Karie Bridge were in Charleston visiting family when a fire broke out at their home.

The station reports that the couple has been taking in exotic animals, cats and dogs since 2010. A total of 11 animals — two dogs, two parrots, a bearded dragon, a boa constrictor, four ferrets and a kitten — were killed in the fire.

Officials with the Irmo Fire Department say the fire was possibly caused by a heating lamp. The fire is still under investigation.

Customer hit employee with wrapping tube ROCK HILL — Authorities say a customer who tried to cut in a Christmas Eve shopping line is accused of hitting a store employee in the head with a tube of wrapping paper.

The Herald of Rock Hill reports that police say in a report released Monday an employee at Family Dollar told officers a customer waiting to check out tried to cut in line at about 3 p.m. Thursday.

Officers say the customer got mad, was asked to leave and swung a wrapping paper tube at an employee, hitting her in the head.

The shopper left the store, and employees called police.

Authorities say the employee told them she had never seen the woman at the store before.

Start the New Year at Lee State Park or at Woods Bay State Park in Olanta with a one-mile hike.

Join a park ranger at 10 a.m. Friday at the Education Center for the Woods Bay or 11 a.m. Friday at Lee State Park’s Education Center for a hike down the boardwalk and on the Floodplain Trail. Participants will be on the lookout for red-headed woodpeckers, kinglets and gnatcatchers and will visit some of the park’s artesian wells and learn about how they work. Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather and bring a water bottle.

For more information, go to www.

SouthCarolinaParks.com or call (803) 428-4988.

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People in Sumter share New Year’s resolutions

BY JIM HILLEY jim@theitem.com As the memories of 2015 recede like an alligator into Puddin Swamp, people will turn their thoughts toward the New Year, always a time when optimism gushes like shaken champagne, pessimism cowers in the corner like Thanksgiving’s leftover gravy in the icebox and New Year’s resolutions are dusted off and lined up like pins in a bowling alley.

So what are our neighbors in Sumter resolving for the coming year?

What good things will they do more of ? What vices will they do less of ?

What nasty habits will they go all cold turkey sandwich on?

Howie Owens said 2015 was a fantastic year.

“My resolution is to be a better husband and a better father,” he said.

Owens, the City of Sumter downtown development manager, said he kept his resolution last year — to lose weight.

“My wife had a baby, and I gained weight while she was pregnant,” he said.

This past year was rough on the community because of events such as the flood, Owens said, but he is excited about 2016, though he might be putting on more weight again.

“My wife is pregnant with our second child,” he said, before heading off to an ultrasound.

“Walk with the Almighty,” is Jeffery Johnson’s plan for 2016, but he said he does not make New Year’s resolutions.

The Mayesville resident said 2015 was a good year for him.

Cornelius Davis Jr. said he is concerned about his wife’s health, and his resolution is to stay at home with her more.

He said last year they were planning to go out of town but decided to stay home.

“It was a rough year with the flood, but by working together we were able to get through it,” he said.

CARTER

DAVIS

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OWENS

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Davis said in 2016 he was looking forward to choosing a new president who will make the right decisions to “make this country great again.”

“It is still the greatest country in the world,” he added.

“Get closer to God,” is among the resolutions of business owner Ted Wilson Sr., who said 2015 was a great year for his business and his family.

“I want to serve mankind better than before and help needy families,” he said.

“We had tremendous success at our company and hired lots of new people.”

Wilson said he has become financially independent and is proud to be able to “enjoy the good life and be able to help people.”

Helping construct homes for people in need is one on the things he has resolved to continue.

“We built several new properties (in 2015), especially on the South side,” he said. “It is a tradition in my family to give back.”

He is hoping to make a trip to Africa this year, he said, to help villages obtain better water supplies.

“That may have to wait until 2017,” he said.

Geraldine Singleton said 2015 was “OK.” Well known in Sumter for feeding

hundreds of hungry people during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons, Singleton said she doesn’t make New Year’s resolutions.

“I just try to do better,” she said.

It is a universal hope, but a task that is easier for some people than others.

Albert Ford of Wedgefield said his resolutions include being prosperous and in good health.

“And treat all of mankind not as I would want to be, but as they need to be treated,” he said.

Norman “Chief” Carter said his resolutions last year were normal things — to lose weight, exercise more, etc.

“This year, I am not going to do that,” he chuckled, somewhat like a kid who has just eaten the last cookie but promises not to take any more.

He said he was going to get more involved in church and politics.

The past year was a good one for him, he said.

“I felt blessed,” Carter said.

Sumter County Councilman Eugene Baten said he wanted to continue to work on downtown development in Sumter and to get more kids involved in STEM programs.

“I hope and pray we can get together and understand we are all in the same situation,” he said.

State Sen. Kevin Johnson said he wants to work harder for the people of South Carolina and is hopeful about 2016.

“It should be the year we finally come up with a roads solution,” he said.

The state senator said his resolutions last year were to lose some weight and lead a healthier lifestyle.

“I kept them,” he laughed, “maybe for the first month.”

Briajala Green, 12, a seventh-grader at Ebenezer Elementary, said 2015 was a good year, and she had resolutions for 2016.

“Read more and get better at math,” she said.

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Neighbor tried to save baby after deadly Texas twister BLUE RIDGE, Texas (AP) — The winds had finally calmed when Debralee King and her husband ventured out to check on their horses and see what damage the tornado had caused. Then she heard a scream.

King saw her neighbor, Jose Daniel Santillano — shirtless and shoeless — running toward her with his newborn daughter in his arms. The child was gravely injured.

Her tiny hand was cold.

“He wanted me to take her to the hospital,” King said.

“He was frantic. His wife was still trapped.”

With that, King was thrust into the unsuccessful effort to save the likely youngest victim of a powerful line of weekend storms that spawned multiple tornadoes, destroyed

several hundred homes and displaced residents throughout Dallas’ suburbs.

At least 11 people died and dozens were injured in the tornadoes that swept through the area on Saturday, pushed by a powerful storm system that continued to hit the nation’s midsection on Monday with heavy snow, ice, rain, flooding and blustery winds.

More than 2,800 flights nationwide were canceled Monday — more than half of them at Chicago’s two main airports — but that had dropped to 600 by Tuesday morning.

Deaths also were attributed to the recent weather in Missouri, Oklahoma and Arkansas, and governors declared disaster declarations in numerous states.

Although the weather was expected to fade, more flooding was expected along the swollen Mississippi River on Tuesday.

In Texas, officials estimated as many as 1,450 homes in the northern part of the state were damaged or destroyed by at least nine tornadoes.

The National Weather Service has said an EF-4 tornado — the second-most powerful with winds up to more than 200 mph — hit the northeast Dallas suburb of Garland.

Authorities think the city’s eight tornado victims died when their vehicles were thrown from overpasses in the area of Interstate 30 and the George Bush Turnpike, a major route in the region.

“I’ve never seen anything like this, with this scale of de-

DAVID WOO / THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS

Roberta Moses, left, and Monica Holman embrace in Roberta’s stormdamaged front yard in Glenn Heights, Texas, on Monday. struction,” Police Chief Mitch Bates said Monday.

In Blue Ridge, a tiny town north of Dallas, King said she tried to save her neighbor’s newborn daughter during the chaos. King said she and another neighbor got in a vehicle with the infant, Aleya, and began driving.

“I kept saying, ‘Oh, my God. Be OK, baby. Be OK,’” King

recalled. “Her little hand was cold. I kept praying.”

They found a game warden about five minutes away. He called paramedics and began CPR until an ambulance arrived, according to King and Captain Jim Moody of the Collin County sheriff’s department.

“The poor little girl didn’t make it,” King said.

Officials: ‘Affluenza’ teen, mother planned flight to Mexico FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — A Texas teenage fugitive and his mother attempted to disguise themselves and disappear among the American tourists who flocked to a Mexican resort city for the holidays before they were arrested and set for deportation to the U.S., authorities said Tuesday.

Tarrant County Sheriff Dee Anderson said 18-year-old Ethan Couch, known for invoking an “affluenza” defense after a drunken driving wreck, and his mother, Tonya Couch — both

of his trial, a defense expert argued that his wealthy parents coddled him into a sense of irresponsibility — a condition the expert termed “affluenza.” The condition is T. COUCH not recognized as a medical diagnosis by the American Psychiatric Association, and its invocation drew ridicule.

Anderson said Couch and his mother apparently crossed the border in her

detained Monday in the Pacific Coast city of Puerto Vallarta — had prepared to be gone awhile.

“They had planned to disappear. They even had something that was alE. COUCH most akin to a going-away party before leaving town,” he said.

Couch was on juvenile probation for the wreck that killed four people when he was 16. During the sentencing phase

Chicago officer pleads not guilty CHICAGO (AP) — A white Chicago police officer charged with murder in the 2014 fatal shooting of black teenager Laquan McDonald pleaded not guilty Tuesday.

Jason Van Dyke faces six counts of first-degree murder and one of official misconduct in the 17-year-old’s death. The officer appeared in front of Judge Vincent Gaughan in Cook County Criminal Court wearing a dark suit and blue striped tie. The next hearing is set for Jan. 29.

Van Dyke’s defense attorney, Dan Herbert, said his client is “hanging in there” and wants to tell his side of the story so that he’s not seen “as this coldblooded killer.” Herbert also said that they haven’t ruled out asking for a change of venue.

Cook County attorneys were not available for comment after the arraignment.

Public outcry has been furious since a dashcam video was released last month showing the veteran officer shooting McDonald 16 times. The teenager, armed with a knife, was veering away from officers when Van Dyke opened fire.

The footage sparked days of street demonstrations, the forced resignation of Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy and a broad federal civil rights investigation of the Police Department’s practices and how allegations of officer misconduct are handled.

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pickup and drove to Puerto Vallarta, though the whereabouts of the truck are unknown.

The U.S. Marshals found the two in Mexico, and worked with Mexican agencies to apprehend them. It was not clear whether they had any accomplices. No immediate charges were planned for others who may have known about or assisted with the flight plan, Anderson said.

He said authorities have no evidence that Crouch’s father was involved.

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National parks hitting visitation records NYC may turn to ‘micro-apartments’ in housing crunch

BY FELICIA FONSECA The Associated Press

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Stage 3 Properties co-founder Christopher Bledsoe closes a sliding glass door as he stands at the Juliet balcony inside one of the apartment units at the Carmel Place building in New York. As the city-sponsored “micro-apartment” project nears completion, it’s setting an example for tiny dwellings that the nation’s biggest city sees as an aid to easing its affordable housing crunch.

New variance allows units smaller than 400 square feet

BY JENNIFER PELTZ The Associated Press NEW YORK — The apartments in a new Manhattan building boast little balconies, tall ceilings, dishwashers and storage space. All in 360 square feet or less.

It’s micro-living in the nation’s biggest city, and New Yorkers could be seeing more of it. Planning officials are proposing to end a limit on how small apartments can be, opening the door for more “micro-apartments” that advocates see as affordable adaptations to a growing population of single people. Critics fear a turn back toward the city’s tenement past and question whether less space will really mean less expensive.

At Carmel Place, the Manhattan building that marks the city’s first experiment in decades with building supersmall dwellings, the pitch is that little can be just enough.

“An efficiently designed micro-unit,” says developer Tobias Oriwol, “is just a nice apartment.”

Set to open early next year, Carmel Place features 55 apartments ranging from 265 to 360 square feet. By comparison, a typical one-car garage can be about 200 square feet.

As an experimental project, Carmel Place got city land and a waiver from New York’s 400-square-foot minimum on new apartments set in 1987. A proposed elimination of that minimum would allow smaller studios in buildings with a mix of apartment sizes, but entire micro-unit buildings

would continue to need waivers.

“For us, it was really important to demonstrate how small space could be an enhancement to quality of life,” said Christopher Bledsoe of Stage 3 Properties, which designed the interiors and amenities at Carmel Place.

Long, flat walls without columns maximize furniture-arranging options, although some units come furnished with fold-out wizardry, including a desk that expands into a 12-seater table and a retractable bed that pulls down tidily over a love seat. Developer Monadnock Construction and architecture firm nArchitects worked inch by inch — sometimes by eighthinch — to meet such requirements as a wheelchair-accessible bathroom within the small space.

Forty percent of the units have rents set by affordablehousing programs topping out at about $1,500 a month, but market-rate ones rent for $2,650 to $3,150, roughly on par with many studios in the nearby Murray Hill neighborhood. About 20 people have applied and hundreds requested information for eight marketrate units so far, while more than 60,000 have entered a lottery for the affordable ones.

Mayor Bill de Blasio’s housing plan says Carmel Place and other projects show “developers can build compact units that are livable, safe, healthy” options for small households.

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Many of the country’s most prominent national parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Zion, set new visitation records in 2015 and are bracing for what could be an even busier new year.

The National Park Service celebrates its 100th birthday in 2016 and has been urging Americans to rediscover the country’s scenic wonders or find new parks to visit through marketing campaigns that include giving free passes to every fourth-grader and their families.

So the attendance records could be short lived, with even bigger crowds expected next year.

“Everybody’s getting psyched and ready for it,” Yellowstone spokeswoman Sandra Snell-Dobert said.

“We want people to have a good experience when it comes to our national parks. We’re trying to keep that wonderful experience while managing large numbers of people.”

Overall visitation to national parks is on track to hit 300 million in 2015, besting last year’s all-time high of nearly 293 million.

Absent December totals, Grand Canyon in northern Arizona hit almost 5.3 million visits. Zion in Utah is over 3.5 million. Yellowstone, which stretches into Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, is nearing 4.1 million. Yosemite in California

is about 220,000 visits shy of the 1996 record_4.2 million — with November and December still left to count.

The past year has meant some adjusting for parks as they manage the crowds. Yosemite lowered the entrance fees during the late fall and winter partly to encourage visitors to consider times other than the busy summer. Zion extended its shuttle bus service when the parking lots became too full for people to access the canyon. It also brought in interns to help study peak times.

The Grand Canyon opened up its residential and employee entrance at the South Rim to those who already had passes during holiday weekends and plans to do the same in 2016. It’s also ramped up hiring for entrance gate employees but will move them around jobs so they don’t get burned out, said Grand Canyon revenue and fee business manager Marlon Avantyr.

“We survived this year pretty much unscathed, just tired, but in a good way,” he said. “We have a good plan and a good idea of what to expect, so we’re hoping to stay ahead of the curve.”

More signs around national parks will help direct traffic, and officials plan to use social media to help visitors better plan their trips. Park officials say they’ll rely more on seasonal workers, interns

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and volunteers who might suggest less-busy areas to visit or alternate times.

The Park Service’s fiscal year 2016 budget includes $8 million for seasonal employees during the centennial, the agency said.

Some decisions on crowd-management will be made on the fly, said Zion spokeswoman Aly Baltrus.

“We’re constantly looking for what’s needed,” she said. “But at this point we don’t have an influx of funds, so we’re rearranging things as best as we can.”

At nearly 2,000 square miles, the Grand Canyon has plenty of room for visitors to branch out for river trips, backcountry hikes and to dozens of lookout points. However, the South Rim remains the most popular tourist spot. Just this year, the park proposed charging at least $5 for day hikes beyond 5 miles on major trails from the north and south rims to ease congestion.

The upcoming year will bring dark skies programs, a Theodore Roosevelt impersonator and historical steam engines to the Grand Canyon. But it won’t be all about the Grand Canyon.

Workers will be talking up other Arizona parks that don’t get as much attention.

“Grand Canyon promotes itself,” said Vanessa Ceja-Cervantes, the park’s centennial community outreach assistant. “We have to do very little to get people to come out to the park.”

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Pair suspected of plotting attacks in Belgium arrested

BY JOHN-THOR DAHLBURG The Associated Press BRUSSELS — Belgian authorities announced Tuesday they have arrested two men and seized militarytype uniforms and Islamic State group propaganda in connection with a suspected plot to unleash holiday season attacks against police, soldiers and celebrated locations in Brussels.

The attacks under preparation “were the same style as those perpetrated in Paris Nov. 13,” in which 130 people were killed and hundreds injured by suicide bombers and gunmen equipped with Kalashnikovstyle assault rifles, according to an internal document from Belgian state security services cited by RTBF French-language television.

Those lethal actions were claimed by the Islamic State extremist group.

The two suspects were arrested after searches Sunday and Monday in the Brussels area, the eastern Liege region and Flemish Brabant, the Belgian Federal Prosecutor’s Office said in a statement. It did not disclose their names or further information about them.

During the searches, no weapons or explosives were found, but military-type training uniforms, IS propaganda material and computer equipment were impounded and are being examined, the prosecutor’s office said.

It said the case was unrelated to the brazen and bloody extremist actions in Paris a month and a half

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

A Penguin runs out of the ocean after swimming with other penguins at Boulders beach, a popular tourist destination in Simon’s Town, South Africa. African Penguins struggle to find food at sea, contributing to a sharp drop in numbers through the years.

African Penguins face threat from pet dogs

BY CHRISTOPHER TORCHIA The Associated Press

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

An armed policeman patrols at the Grand Place in Brussels on Tuesday. Two people have been arrested in Belgium on suspicion of planning attacks in Brussels during the holidays, the federal prosecutor’s office said Tuesday. ago, but that the investigation, which is still ongoing, has revealed a “threat of serious attacks that would target several emblematic places in Brussels and be committed during the end-ofyear holidays.”

The prosecutor’s office gave no more details about the intended targets, but an official close to the investigation told The Associated Press that they included the Belgian capital’s cobblestoned main square,

thronged between Christmas and New Year’s with shoppers and strollers, as well as a police headquarters in an adjacent street.

“On the Grand Place, there are a lot of people, as well as soldiers and police who are patrolling, as well as a police station nearby,” said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized by the judge leading the investigation to make public statements.

JOHANNESBURG — African Penguins struggle to find food at sea, contributing to a sharp drop in numbers through the years. The endangered animals also face a shore-based threat in South Africa — pet dogs.

More than 40 penguins were killed this year by one or more dogs and authorities recently increased patrols in a penguin nesting area where people often take their dogs for a walk, the city of Cape Town said Monday.

Protective measures along Burgher’s Walk in Simon’s Town, which include requiring leashes for all dogs in the area, have been effective and full-time patrols will continue until the end of January, Cape Town officials said.

Authorities will try to find the right balance between protecting penguins in the urban

district while at the same time “not over-regulating human recreation in the area,” city councilor Johan van der Merwe said in a statement.

The decline of the African Penguin increased about 2004 with a southern shift in anchovies and sardines away from the hub of penguin colonies along South Africa’s Atlantic coast, reducing the penguins’ ability to get food, according to experts. Scientists are unsure why the fish moved, considering climate change and overfishing as some of the possible causes.

Namibia also hosts the endangered species.

In 2010, the International Union for Conservation of Nature declared the African Penguin endangered. Based on data around that period, it estimated the total number of African Penguins at about 80,000, amounting to a 60 percent drop in the population over 30 years.

Rare winter flood threatens homes, closes interstates

BY JIM SALTER The Associated Press ST. LOUIS — A rare winter flood shut down portions of two interstates on Tuesday, threatened hundreds of homes and caused sewage to flow unfiltered into waterways.

Torrential rains over the past several days pushed already swollen rivers and streams to virtually unheardof heights in parts of Missouri and Illinois. Record flooding was projected at some Mississippi River towns, and the Meramec River near St. Louis was expected to get to more than 3 feet above the previous record by late this week.

At least 18 deaths in Missouri and Illinois are blamed on flooding, mostly involving vehicles that drove onto

swamped roadways.

The river on Tuesday spilled over the top of the levee at West Alton, Missouri, about 20 miles north of St. Louis. Mayor William Richter ordered any of the town’s approximate 520 residents who had not already evacuated to get out of harm’s way.

Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon activated the National Guard to assist with security in

evacuated areas and to help divert traffic at road closure sites.

In another eastern Missouri town, Union, water from the normally docile Bourbeuse River reached the roofs of a McDonald’s, QuikTrip and several other businesses. The river reached an all-time high Tuesday, nearly 20 feet above flood stage.

Interstate 44 was closed

near the central Missouri town of Rolla, and a section of Interstate 70 was shut down in southern Illinois.

Hundreds of smaller roads and highways were also closed across the two states, and flood warnings were in effect.

In St. Louis, more than 100 volunteers turned out in blustery, cold conditions to fill sandbags where a flooded wa-

terway threatened hundreds of homes.

The River Des Peres is a man-made storm sewer channel that flows through south St. Louis into the Mississippi River, a few miles south of the Anheuser-Busch brewery.

The channel is deep enough that flooding isn’t a concern under normal conditions.

But there is nothing normal about this December flood.

Extended Black Friday Sale Happy New Year!

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(803) 773-8016

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“HAPPY NEW YEAR!” As we count down to 2016, we recall the many good times we’ve shared with friends and neighbors like you. Thank you for making 2015 a memorable year for us. We’ve loved every minute of serving you, and we look forward to seeing you again next year!

We hope your New Year is nothing but good times, from beginning to end.

Happy New Year, friends!

Closed 12/31, 1/1 & 1/2.

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LOCAL

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015

THE SUMTER ITEM

DRINKING FROM PAGE A1 reaching a blood alcohol level of .08 percent or higher can lead to poor muscle coordination, deterioration of reaction time and impaired judgment, a bad combination when driving.

For a first DUI offense, offenders face a $400 fine, between 48 hours and 30 days in jail or 48 hours of community service.

According to the CDC, people react differently to alcohol based on many factors including age, gender, weight and fitness

level, and amount of food consumed prior to drinking.

No source of alcohol — beer, wine or liquor — is safer to drink than another; it is the amount of alcohol consumed, not the type, that affects the body, according to the CDC. For those who end up drinking Thursday night but do not have a designated driver at the end of the night, the CDC suggests keeping the telephone numbers of local taxi companies on hand.

....Cash in a FLASH....

We Buy: Gold & Silver Jewelry, Silver Coins & Collections, Sterling/.925, Diamonds, Pocket Watches, Antiques & Estates

Lafayette Gold & Silver Exchange Inside Vestco Properties KEITH GEDAMKE / THE SUMTER ITEM

480 E. Liberty St. Sumter, SC 29150

Councilman Eugene Baten and United Ministries Executive Director Mark Champagne talk before the Sumter Branch of the NAACP presented donations of $300 to four Sumter charities on Tuesday morning at the Court House.

(inside Coca-Cola Building))

Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 5:30 PM • Sat: 8 - 2 PM

803-773-8022

NAACP FROM PAGE A1 be working with Mennonite and Amish groups that are visiting Sumter to help repair houses damaged by the flood.

Champagne said the repairs will start within a couple of weeks.

“Any donation means a lot,” said American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces Coordinator Janice Odom.

She said the donation will help the organization as it is still receiving visits from Sumter residents in need of assistance.

Cynthia Butler, bookkeeper for Salvation Army, said even though Sumter is a small community, compared to others, the people manage to give back in a big way.

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015 H.G. Osteen 1870-1955 Founder, The Item

H.D. Osteen 1904-1987 The Item

|

A7

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

20 N. Magnolia St., Sumter, South Carolina 29150 • Founded October 15, 1894

COMMENTARY

Food fads: Make mine gluten-full

W

hen the federal government’s 1980 “Dietary Guidelines for Americans” warned about the baleful effects of saturated fats, public interest activists joined the fight and managed to persuade major food companies to switch to the shiny new alternative: trans fats.

Charles Krauthammer Thirty-five years later, the Food and Drug Administration finally determined that trans fats are not just useless but unsafe, and ordered them removed from all foods. Oops.

So much for settled science. To tell the truth, I never paid much attention to the fat fights in the first place. From my days as a medical student (and prodigious consumer of junk food), I’ve seen so many solemnly proclaimed “findings” come and go that I decided long ago to ignore — and outlive — them all.

So far, I’m ahead. Never had an egg substitute in my life. I figured trans fats were just another fad waiting to be revoked and renounced.

Moreover, if I was wrong, the green eggs and ham would take so long to kill me anyway that I was more likely to be hit by a bus first. Either way, win-win.

Don’t get me wrong. I don’t advocate this kind of jaunty fatalism for everyone. This is a private affair. I do, however, preach skepticism. Remember that most venerable piece of received medical wisdom — 98.6 degrees as the average adult human temperature? In 1992, three researchers bothered to measure — and found that the conventional wisdom (based on an 1878 German study) was wrong. Normal is 98.2.

After that — 114 years of error — one is inclined to embrace Woody Allen’s “Sleeper” theory that in 200 years we’ll discover that smoking is good for you, fruits are not. I still love peaches, but I eat them for the taste — and the memories — not because they might add a month to my life (in the ICU when I’m 90).

I don’t mean to be cynical, just realistic. Take fish oil.

For at least 10 years the National Institutes of Health has strongly recommended omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.

I held out, trusting both my gastronomic prejudices (more turf than surf) and my faith that time ultimately undoes all of life’s verites. I waited. My orneriness has

not been fully vindicated — NIH still recommends dietary fish oil — but it does find omega-3 supplements to be useless.

Exhibit A for medical skepticism, however, remains vitamin C. When Linus Pauling, Nobel laureate in chemistry (not nutrition), began the vitamin-C megadose fad to fend off all manner of disease, the whole thing struck me as bizarre. Yes, you need some C to prevent scurvy if you’re seven months at sea with Capt. Cook and citrus is nowhere to be found. Otherwise, the megadose is a crock. Evolution is pretty clever. For 2 million years it made sure Homo erectus, neanderthalensis, sapiens, what have you, got his daily dose without having to visit a GNC store.

Sure enough, that fashion came and went. But there are always new windmills to be tilted at. The latest is gluten.

Now, if you suffer from celiac disease, you need a gluten-free diet. How many of us is that? Less than 1 percent. And yet supermarket shelves are groaning with products proclaiming their gluten-freedom. Sales are going through the roof.

Another crock. Turns out, according to a massive Australian study of 3,200 products, gluten-free is useless.

“The foods can be significantly more expensive and are very trendy to eat,” says Jason Wu, the principal investigator. “But we discovered a negligible difference when looking at their overall nutrition.”

Told you so.

Why then am I not agitating to have this junk taken off the shelves? Because of my other obsession: placebos. For which I have an undying respect, acquired during my early years as a general-hospital psychiatrist. If you believe in the curative powers of something — often encouraged by the authority of your physician — a sugar pill or a glass of plain water can produce remarkable symptom relief. I’ve seen it.

I’ve done it.

So I’d never mess with it.

If a placebo can alleviate your pain, that’s better than opioids. If going gluten-free gives a spring to your step, why not? But please, let the civility go both ways. Let the virtuous Fitbit foodie, all omega-3’d and gluten-free, drop the self-congratulatory smugness. And I promise not to say it’s all in his head.

Live and let eat. Merry Christmas.

Charles Krauthammer’s email address is letters@ charleskrauthammer.com. © 2015, The Washington Post Writers Group

LETTER TO EDITOR CHRISTMAS EVE FRONT PAGE MADE READER’S DAY Thank you for your Dec. 24 front page; it made my day.

I have it in a poster frame.

I am also sending a copy to each of my daughters who do not live in South Carolina.

I feel sorry for those who were offended. How can “Peace on earth to men of good will” offend anyone?

And, I do not need to be lectured on exactly when Christ was born. I am 80 years old and have known

Misleading and using blacks

S

upreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia ran headlong into the leftist meat grinder by questioning whether college admission of blacks with academic achievement levels significantly lower than the rest of the student body is beneficial to blacks.

His question came up during oral arguments in Fisher v. University of Texas, wherein the court will rule whether the use of race in college admission decisions violates the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of “equal protection of the laws” to all citizens.

Justice Scalia’s questions generated news headlines such as “Justice Scalia Suggests Blacks Belong at ‘Slower’ Colleges,” “Scalia questions place of some black students in elite colleges” and “Scalia and the misguided ‘mismatch’ theory.”

Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid said, “It is deeply disturbing to hear a Supreme Court justice endorse racist ideas from the bench of the nation’s highest court.”

The issue for black parents is not whether their sons and daughters should be admitted to an elite college or one that is lowerranked. The issue is whether their sons and daughters should be admitted to a college where they would not be admitted if they were white.

The question for black parents and black people is: Which better serves our interests, a black student’s being admitted to an elite college and winding up in the bottom of his class or flunking out or a black student’s being admitted to a less prestigious college and performing just as well as his white peers? I would opt for a black student’s doing well and graduating from a less prestigious college.

COMMENTARY Think of it this way. Suppose you asked, “Williams, would you teach my son how to box?” I say yes, and after your son wins a few amateur matches, I set him up with a Walter match Williams against an elite boxer like Mike Tyson or Lennox Lewis. Your son may have the potential to be a worldclass boxer, but he is going to get his brains beaten out and have his career ended before he learns how to bob and weave.

It’s the same with any student — black or white.

Pupils are less likely to succeed if they are placed in a fast-paced academic environment where their academic achievement levels do not begin to match those of their peers.

Such students would have a greater chance of success in a slower-paced, less competitive environment, one more in tune with their preparation and where they might receive more personal help.

My recommendation to black parents is: Do not enroll your children in a college where their SAT score is 200 or more points below the average of that college.

Keep in mind that students are not qualified or unqualified in any absolute sense. The nation has more than 4,800 colleges, meaning there’s a college for most anybody.

Another group of beneficiaries is composed of black staff and faculty who are hired and create campus fiefdoms with big budgets based on the presence of black students. The number of black students enrolled is the key, not the

‘The issue for black parents is not whether their sons and daughters should be admitted to an elite college or one that is lowerranked. The issue is whether their sons and daughters should be admitted to a college where they would not be admitted if they were white.’ number who graduate or wind up in useless “Mickey Mouse” courses or in the bottom of their classes.

In fact, there is an element of perversity. The greater the number of blacks who are on academic probation or do not graduate the more justified are calls for greater budgets for academic support and student retention programs.

I have been asked: If elite colleges do not create lower admission standards, how are they going to have enough black students? My response is: That’s their problem. Black people cannot afford to have our youngsters turned into failures in order to support the agendas of diversity race hustlers and to lessen the guilt of white liberals.

Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University. © 2015, creators.com

EDITORIAL PAGE POLICIES that for at least 65 years.

The British monarch has an “official birthday” and it is not when she was born.

I have never been offended by other faiths except when they say “submit or die.”

Do the offended go to work or give back holiday pay?

I long for the days before political correctness, when common sense was something everyone had.

RAYMOND J. TIFFAULT JR. Sumter

EDITORIALS represent the views of the owners of this newspaper.

COLUMNS AND COMMENTARY are the personal opinion of the writer whose byline appears. Columns from readers should be typed, double-spaced and no more than 850 words. Send them to The Sumter Item, Opinion Pages, P.O. Box 1677, Sumter, S.C. 29151, or email to hubert@ theitem.com or graham@theitem.com.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are written by readers of the newspaper. They should be no more than 350 words and sent via e-mail to letters@ theitem.com, dropped off at The Sumter Item office, 20 N. Magnolia St. or mailed to The Sumter Item, P.O. Box 1677, Sumter, S.C. 29151, along with the full name of the writer, plus an 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.

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015

NEW YEAR’S HOLIDAY SCHEDULE BANKS — All area banks and credit unions will be New Year’s Holiday Schedule: Dec. 30, closed Friday.

2015 GOVERNMENT — The following will be closed Friday: federal government offices; state government offices; U.S. Postal Service; City of Sumter offices; Sumter County offices; Clarendon County offices; Lee County offices; City of Manning offices; and City of Bishopville offices.

SCHOOLS — The following will be closed through Jan. 3, 2016: Sumter School District; Clarendon School Districts 1, 2 and 3; Lee County Public Schools; Robert E. Lee Academy; Thomas Sumter Academy; Wilson Hall; St. Anne Catholic School; St. Francis Xavier High School; and Laurence Manning Academy.

Clarendon Hall will be closed through Jan. 4, 2016.

Sumter Christian School will be closed through Jan. 3, 2016. A faculty in-service day will be observed on Jan. 4, 2016, and students will return on Jan. 5, 2016.

Central Carolina Technical College will be closed through Jan. 3, 2016.

USC Sumter will be closed through Friday.

UTILITIES — Black River Electric Coop. and Farmers Telephone Coop. will be closed Friday.

OTHER — Clemson Extension Service will be closed Friday.

The Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce will be closed Thursday and Friday.

The Sumter County Library will close at 4 p.m. on Thursday and will remain closed Friday.

The Harvin Clarendon County Library will be closed Friday.

City of Sumter will collect household garbage and recyclables on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2016.

All offices of The Sumter Item will be closed Friday. The Sumter Item will not publish on Friday, New Year’s Day.

FYI

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Lady luck is in EUGENIA LAST your corner.

When it comes to money, contracts, negotiations and settlements, the planets favor you. Hesitation will be your downfall and arguments will be a waste of time. When an opportunity arises, give it your best shot.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Open up conversations with people who have an inside view of an industry that interests you. Networking and socializing with your peers will lead to a new friendship with a colleague you want to collaborate with.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You will face opposition if you aren’t forthright about what your motives are. Do your best to reveal what you want and what you are offering. It’s better to know where you stand than to live a confused life.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Don’t make changes just because someone else does. Focus on tradition, family and reconnecting with relatives you don’t get to see very often. The memories will stir up ideas and inspire you to make plans in the new year.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): It’s the festive season, and entertainment, socializing and finding time to be affectionate with someone you love is encouraged. A trip to the spa or to spruce up your image will be just what you need to lift your spirits.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You’ll face opposition if you share your personal thoughts and plans. Work undercover until you come up with a foolproof plan. A networking

THE SUMTER ITEM

WEATHER

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2015

AccuWeather® five-day forecast for Sumter TODAY

TONIGHT

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Rain and a thunderstorm

Some rain and a thunderstorm

Couple of thunderstorms

Cloudy, showers around; cooler

Partly sunny

Sun and clouds

76°

65°

70° / 56°

59° / 40°

53° / 34°

55° / 35°

Chance of rain: 65%

Chance of rain: 55%

Chance of rain: 60%

Chance of rain: 60%

Chance of rain: 5%

Chance of rain: 15%

SSW 4-8 mph

SW 3-6 mph

W 4-8 mph

NNE 6-12 mph

NNE 4-8 mph

W 3-6 mph

TODAY’S SOUTH CAROLINA WEATHER

Gaffney 66/56 Spartanburg 65/54

Greenville 67/54

Columbia 76/65

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

Sumter 76/65

IN THE MOUNTAINS Aiken 72/60

ON THE COAST

Charleston 78/66

Today: A thunderstorm in spots. High 74 to 78.

Thursday: A thunderstorm; humid in southern parts. High 72 to 76.

LAKE LEVELS

SUMTER THROUGH 4 P.M. YESTERDAY

Today Hi/Lo/W 66/52/r 31/23/sn 53/35/pc 36/29/c 60/47/c 63/42/s 64/56/t 52/44/r 86/68/c 56/44/r 59/37/s 52/38/pc 57/44/r

SUN AND MOON 7 a.m. yest.

358.65 76.02 73.55 100.78

24-hr chg -0.34 +0.33 none -0.35

Sunrise 7:27 a.m.

Moonrise 10:42 p.m.

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

0.10" 3.93" 3.10" 61.29" 38.90" 46.70"

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

Full pool 360 76.8 75.5 100

Lake Murray Marion Moultrie Wateree

78° 71° 54° 32° 78° in 2015 19° in 1977

Precipitation 24 hrs ending 4 p.m. yest.

Month to date Normal month to date Year to date Last year to date Normal year to date

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 59/45/c 28/14/c 49/36/c 35/26/sf 57/46/r 66/42/s 62/50/r 51/37/pc 84/67/pc 51/37/pc 63/40/s 52/37/s 54/37/pc

Myrtle Beach 77/66

Manning 75/66

Today: Mild with rain and a thunderstorm.

Winds southwest 3-6 mph.

Thursday: Cloudy and mild. Winds south 3-6 mph.

Temperature High Low Normal high Normal low Record high Record low

Florence 76/64

Bishopville 73/64

LOCAL ALMANAC

attend. Call (803) 773-4811.

Zumba classes will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and The Civil Air Patrol Sumter Are you looking for a group to get involved Wednesdays at the Parks Composite Squadron meets with? and Recreation building on from 7 to 9 p.m. each MonHaynsworth Street. Classes day at the Sumter Airport. are $5 each. Registration is Contact Jared Buniel at (803) not required. Contact 481-7915 or JaredLotR@juno.

Deanne Lewis at zumcom. Visit www.scwg.cap. badeanne@gmail.com. gov/sumter/.

Sumter Area Toastmasters The Palmetto PC Club meets meets at 7 p.m. each Tueson the second Thursday of day at the Sumter Mall com- each month at the Capital munity room, 1057 Broad St. Senior Center in Columbia.

The group helps in developDetails about the club can ing speaking and leadership be found at http://palmetskills. Call Douglas Wilson at topc.org/home/.

(803) 778-0197 or Rebecca Sumter Newcomers Club welGonzalez at (803) 565-9271. comes new residents (and The Westside Neighborhood even some longtime resiAssociation meets at 5:30 dents) with coffees and lunp.m. on the third Monday of cheons each month. Call each month at the Birnie Anna Nunnery at (803) 469HOPE Center, 210 S. Purdy St. 0143 or Jeanne Bessel at (803) 469-0598.

The Christian Golfers’ Association (CGA) meets at 8 a.m.

The Sumter Combat Veterans each Tuesday for Bible Group holds weekly peer to study. The group meets at peer meetings at 11 a.m. the CGA office in Dillon Park. every Tuesday at the South Refreshments provided and HOPE Center, 1125 S. Lafaygolf after Bible study. Call ette Drive. These meetings (803) 773-2171. are designed for veterans to help other veterans with UAW Eastern Carolina InternaPTSD, coping skills, claims tional Retirees Council meets and benefits. Open to all at 10 a.m. on the second area veterans.

Wednesday of each month at the VFW in Little River. All The Rembert Area Community UAW retirees are welcome Coalition (RACC) offers a seto attend. Call Bob Artus at nior citizens program 10 (803) 481-3622. a.m.-noon each Monday and Wednesday at 6785 Bradley The Ballard-Palmer-Bates St. (behind community car American Legion Post 202 wash), Rembert, SC 29128. meets at 7 p.m. on the third Transportation is available.

Wednesday of each month For details, call (803) 432at the Post, 310 Palmetto St. 2001.

All veterans are welcome to

The last word in astrology

DAILY PLANNER

Sunset 5:22 p.m.

Moonset 10:50 a.m.

Last

New

First

Full

Jan. 2

Jan. 9

Jan. 16

Jan. 23

TIDES

Flood 7 a.m. 24-hr stage yest. chg 12 12.14 +0.16 19 12.90 -2.46 14 16.08 +2.30 14 8.71 -2.55 80 83.70 +0.05 24 23.36 -1.41

AT MYRTLE BEACH

High 12:08 a.m.

12:19 p.m.

12:55 a.m.

1:02 p.m.

Today Thu.

Ht. 2.7 2.9 2.6 2.8

Low 6:48 a.m.

7:21 p.m.

7:36 a.m.

8:04 p.m.

Ht. 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.4

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 65/47/r 67/53/r 75/61/t 78/64/t 75/66/sh 78/66/c 70/57/r 67/55/r 76/65/t 73/64/r 71/64/r 73/67/t 73/66/r

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 61/40/c 66/48/c 69/52/c 75/57/t 70/53/c 76/61/t 67/47/c 68/51/c 70/56/t 69/53/t 64/48/t 70/51/t 68/50/t

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 76/64/r 84/65/c 67/58/r 74/66/r 77/66/c 67/55/r 67/54/r 63/52/r 74/66/t 85/65/c 66/54/r 73/59/t 63/49/r

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 71/55/t 82/65/c 66/48/c 68/49/t 76/60/t 61/44/c 66/49/c 61/43/c 73/60/c 82/63/c 61/46/c 62/48/sh 61/43/c

City Marion Mt. Pleasant Myrtle Beach Orangeburg Port Royal Raleigh Rock Hill Rockingham Savannah Spartanburg Summerville Wilmington Winston-Salem

Today Hi/Lo/W 63/49/r 76/67/t 77/66/t 75/64/t 76/65/t 70/61/r 69/58/r 71/64/r 81/65/t 65/54/r 77/66/c 78/66/t 64/54/r

Thu. Hi/Lo/W 63/42/c 75/61/t 75/58/t 71/57/t 74/58/t 62/46/r 66/49/sh 68/48/r 78/60/t 66/48/c 75/59/t 75/56/t 61/43/c

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

For Comfort You Can Count On, Better Make It Boykin!

803-775-WARM (9276) www.boykinacs.com License #M4217

function will be a good place to pick up information.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You are running out of time. Make a point to enforce the changes you want to make before the turn of the year.

It’s important to enter 2016 with a clean slate. You will have to be secretive to avoid interference.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Share your ideas and plans with someone you love or want to spend more time with. Favors will be granted if you decide to enter into a joint venture. Unusual changes at home will inspire you to be more creative.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Stick close to home and abide by the rules and regulations. You will face opposition if you are indulgent or try to ignore the assignments that are due before the year comes to a close. Secrets will be revealed.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Don’t leave anything undone.

Avoid arguments or conflicts with someone who doesn’t understand what you are doing. Finish what you start and head in a direction that will allow you to lay down a solid foundation for future negotiations.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Look at your options and ponder what you want to achieve next year. You can bring about changes based on past experience and future goals.

Take physical steps to ensure you will be ready when the time comes.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The disclosure of a personal secret will leave you confused and uncertain about what to do next. Don’t let your emotions take over and lead to a situation you cannot reverse.

Bide your time and seek legal advice.

LOTTERY NUMBERS PALMETTO CASH 5 TUESDAY

POWERBALL SATURDAY

MEGAMILLIONS TUESDAY

2-3-4-32-34 PowerUp: 4

27-40-44-59-65 Powerball: 20; Powerplay: 2

numbers not available at press time

PICK 3 TUESDAY

PICK 4 TUESDAY

LUCKY FOR LIFE MONDAY

7-6-5 and 4-0-3

8-5-7-9 and 2-9-5-7

2-3-10-37-45; Lucky Ball: 6

SUMTER ANIMAL CONTROL DOG OF THE WEEK King, a handsome young male, is just an all around good boy. He is only a medium-sized boy, but has a commanding presence. King will guard your castle (inside home please). King is waiting for you in kennel 32 at Sumter Animal Control, 1240 Winkles Road, (803) 4362066. Sumter Animal Control has many deserving animals. Follow our Facebook page at Sumter Animal Control.

SECTION

b

Wednesday, December 30, 2015 Call: (803) 774-1241 | E-mail: sports@theitem.com

orange bowl

Endurance rewarded Defensive battle not in forecast

Tigers, Sooners both capable of lots of offensive firepower

By PAUL NEWBERRY AP National Writer

CLEMSON ATHLETICS

Former Sumter High School standout William Cockerill (61) took a long, bumpy road to earning a spot on the Clemson roster. He hopes his endurance in the face of one setback after another will pay off with a national championship in his final year with the Tigers.

Former SHS standout Cockerill hopes long, winding road to Clemson roster ends with national title By justin driggers justin@theitem.com At winter workouts following his freshman season at Clemson University, Tigers head coach Dabo Swinney approached William Cockerill while he was in the midst of stretching with an idea he had in mind.

“Cockerill, I’ve either got the best news of your life or the worst news of your life,” Swinney told the former Sumter High School tight end standout. “We’re going to move you to (offensive) tackle.”

Cockerill didn’t hesitate.

“Alright coach, let’s do it!” he said.

The 6-foot-6-inch senior has never regretted that decision or the one he made to walk on at Clemson.

With the Tigers sporting a 13-0 record, an Atlantic Coast Conference championship, a No. 1 overall ranking and an

See cockerill, Page B4

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — No one will be tuning in to the Orange Bowl looking for a defensive slugfest.

Clemson’s Deshaun Watkins is used to lighting up the scoreboard. Oklahoma’s Baker Mayfield has shredded one helpless defense after another.

“People love seeing highpowered offenses and guys slinging the ball around,” said Clemson linebacker Ben Boulware, sounding a bit gloomy as he looked ahead to Thursday’s national semifinal game. “The viewers want to see Deshaun throw for 600 yards and Mayfield throw for 600 yards.”

While no one is ready to bury the ol’ adage that defense wins championships, it needs a bit of tweaking

with these teams.

Clemson (13-0) gave up more than 30 points in its last two games, but Watson & Co. made sure it didn’t ruin the perfect season. The Tigers held off South Carolina 37-32 in their regular-season finale, then survived a 45-37 track meet with North Carolina to capture the Atlantic Coast Conference championship.

Oklahoma (11-1) followed a similar path to the College Football Playoff. The Sooners gave up at least 20 points in eight games, more than 30 a couple of times. It cost them only once — an upset loss to Texas.

Despite all those shaky performances, neither defense is lacking bravado.

“I know what we’ve got,” Oklahoma outside linebacker Eric Striker said Tuesday

See orange bowl, Page B4

high school BasketBall

Steady rotation Contributions across the board & a few big runs help SHS boys top Latta By justin driggers justin@theitem.com

lacking, so it was a great opportunity for guys to come in and improve in game-time sitWith two games on Tuesuations. day’s docket for Sumter High “We’re going to drop down School’s boys basketball team, to a smaller rotation when reit was important to keep fresh gion play starts, but we’re not legs on the court, head coach sure who those players are Shawn Jones said. going to be just yet.”

“We weren’t looking ahead, The Gamecocks had six but we wanted to try and keep players scored five points or guys from spending too much more, but only one who posttime on the floor (leading into ed double-digits. It was a good the 7:30 p.m. game against Lee sign, however, that Charles Central),” he said.

Patton was the one who did it.

The Gamecocks managed to In just his second game make the most of their rotaback from injury, Patton tion as 14 different players scored 10 points and had eight scored against Latta. Coupled rebounds for the Gamecocks. with a big run early in the “It’s definitely good to get first half and another late in him back into the rotation,” the second, the result was a Jones said. “He’s still getting 68-54 victory on Day 2 of the used to the pace and he got in District 9 Officials Christmas a little foul trouble, but he did Tournament at The Castle. some good things for us, Sumter (5-3) lost 61-58 in which was good to see.”

OT to Lee Central in the Patton was part of an 11-0 nightcap as the Stallions run Sumter used early in the earned a berth in today’s title first half to grab the advangame against C.E. Murray. tage. The Gamecocks were up “It was great to see a lot of 23-9 at one point before the Vithe guys come in and get that kings battled back to within game-time experience,” Jones See boys, Page B2 said. “That’s something we’re

KEITH GEDAMKE / THE SUMTER ITEM

Sumter’s Cedric Rembert, left, goes up for shot as Latta’s Eric McGirt, center, watches during the Gamecocks’ 68-54 victory on Tuesday night at The Castle in the District 9 Officials Christmas Tournament.

Lady Gamecocks roll past Manning to tournament title game by eddie litaker Special to The Sumter Item

wood High’s The Castle The first The Manning High School challenge varsity girls basketball team would be facfaced two major challenges as ing off with 4A it headed into the opening power Sumter, game of second-day play in the an endeavor loudenslager 19th Annual District 9 Offithat did not cials Christmas Basketball end well for the Lady MonTournament Tuesday at Crest- archs as the Lady Gamecocks

closed the first half with a 12-0 run and continued to pull away in the second half for a 54-19 victory that helped it advance to today’s championship game.

The second challenge came from Manning head coach Darren Mazyck during a lengthy session outside the Lady Monarchs’ locker room

that was full of passion and emotion.

How the Lady Monarch players respond to that second challenge could define a season that began with much promise and high expectations after a 9-0 start.

“This is probably, I would say, the worst that we’ve played this year,” said Mazyck,

whose team stood at 9-2 and 0-2 in tourney play, including a 50-44 loss to Lee Central on Monday. “But it’s a Christmas tournament and it’s a learning process. Don’t take anything away from Sumter; they’re one of the top teams in the state in that 4A division, and we’re

See girls, Page B2

B2

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sports

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Scoreboard TV, RADIO TODAY Noon – College Football: Birmingham Bowl from Birmingham, Ala. – Auburn vs. Memphis (ESPN).

Noon – College Basketball: West Virginia at Virginia Tech (ESPNU).

1 p.m. – College Basketball: Indiana at Rutgers (ESPN2).

2 p.m. – College Basketball: Houston at South Florida (ESPNU).

3 p.m. – College Basketball: Michigan at Illinois (ESPN2).

3 p.m. – International Soccer: English Premier League Match – Liverpool vs.

Sunderland (NBC SPORTS NETWORK).

3:30 p.m. – College Football: Belk Bowl from Charlotte – North Carolina State vs. Mississippi State (ESPN).

4 p.m. – College Basketball: Northwestern at Nebraska (ESPNU).

4 p.m. – College Basketball: Long Beach State at Duke (FOX SPORTSOUTH).

4:30 p.m. – Women’s College Basketball: SEC/AAC Challenge from Jacksonville, Fla. – Mississippi State vs.

South Florida (SEC NETWORK).

5 p.m. – College Basketball: Penn State at Maryland (ESPN2).

6 p.m. – College Basketball: Oakland at Virginia (ESPNU).

6:05 p.m. – Talk Show: Sports Talk (WDXY-FM 105.9, WDXY-AM 1240).

7 p.m. – College Football: Music City Bowl from Nashville, Tenn. – Texas A&M vs. Louisville (ESPN).

7 p.m. – College Basketball: Clemson at North Carolina (ESPN, WWBD-FM 94.7).

7 p.m. – College Basketball: Seton Hall at Marquette (FOX SPORTS 1).

7 p.m. – NBA Basketball: Los Angeles Clippers at Charlotte (FOX SPORTS SOUTHEAST).

7 p.m. – Women’s College Basketball: SEC/AAC Challenge from Jacksonville, Fla. – Florida vs. Central Florida (SEC NETWORK).

7 p.m. – College Basketball: Francis Marion at South Carolina (WDXY-FM 105.9, WNKT-FM 107.5, WDXY-AM 1240).

7:30 p.m. – NBA Basketball: Los Angeles Lakers at Boston (NBA TV).

8 p.m. – College Basketball: Arkansas at Dayton (CBS SPORTS NETWORK).

8 p.m. – High School Football: Under Armour All-America Game from Orlando, Fla. (ESPNU).

8 p.m. – Women’s College Basketball: Kansas at Oklahoma (FOX SPORTSOUTH).

8 p.m. – NHL Hockey: New York Rangers at Tampa Bay (NBC SPORTS NETWORK).

9 p.m. – College Basketball: Syracuse at Pittsburgh (ESPN2).

9 p.m. – College Basketball: Georgetown at DePaul (FOX SPORTS 1).

9 p.m. – College Basketball: Western Michigan at Vanderbilt (SEC NETWORK).

10 p.m. – College Basketball: Wyoming at San Diego State (CBS SPORTS NETWORK).

10 p.m. – NBA Basketball: Denver at Portland (NBA TV).

10:30 p.m. – College Football: Holiday Bowl from San Diego – Southern California vs. Wisconsin (ESPN).

10:30 p.m. – NHL Hockey: Philadelphia at San Jose (NBC SPORTS NETWORK).

11 p.m. – College Basketball: Fresno State at Nevada-Las Vegas (ESPNU).

NFL STANDINGS

By The Associated Press

AMERICAN CONFERENCE East

W L T Pct PF PA y-New England 12 3 0 .800 455 295 N.Y. Jets 10 5 0 .667 370 292 Buffalo 7 8 0 .467 357 342 Miami 5 10 0 .333 290 379 South

W L T Pct PF PA Houston 8 7 0 .533 309 307 Indianapolis 7 8 0 .467 303 384 Jacksonville 5 10 0 .333 370 418 Tennessee 3 12 0 .200 275 393 North

W L T Pct PF PA y-Cincinnati 11 4 0 .733 395 263 Pittsburgh 9 6 0 .600 395 307 Baltimore 5 10 0 .333 312 377 Cleveland 3 12 0 .200 266 404 West

W L T Pct PF PA y-Denver 11 4 0 .733 328 276 x-Kansas City 10 5 0 .667 382 270 Oakland 7 8 0 .467 342 376 San Diego 4 11 0 .267 300 371

NATIONAL CONFERENCE East

W L T Pct PF PA y-Washington 8 7 0 .533 354 356 N.Y. Giants 6 9 0 .400 390 407 Philadelphia 6 9 0 .400 342 400 Dallas 4 11 0 .267 252 340 South

W L T Pct PF PA y-Carolina 14 1 0 .933 462 298 Atlanta 8 7 0 .533 322 325 Tampa Bay 6 9 0 .400 332 379 New Orleans 6 9 0 .400 388 459 North

W L T Pct PF PA x-Green Bay 10 5 0 .667 355 303 x-Minnesota 10 5 0 .667 345 289 Detroit 6 9 0 .400 334 380 Chicago 6 9 0 .400 315 373 West

W L T Pct PF PA y-Arizona 13 2 0 .867 483 277 x-Seattle 9 6 0 .600 387 271 St. Louis 7 8 0 .467 264 311 San Francisco 4 11 0 .267 219 371 x-clinched playoff spot y-clinched division

Saturday’s game

Washington 38, Philadelphia 24

Sunday’s games

Houston 34, Tennessee 6 Kansas City 17, Cleveland 13 N.Y. Jets 26, New England 20, OT Indianapolis 18, Miami 12 Detroit 32, San Francisco 17 Buffalo 16, Dallas 6 Chicago 26, Tampa Bay 21 Atlanta 20, Carolina 13 Baltimore 20, Pittsburgh 17 New Orleans 38, Jacksonville 27 St. Louis 23, Seattle 17 Arizona 38, Green Bay 8 Minnesota 49, N.Y. Giants 17

Monday’s game

Denver 20, Cincinnati 17, OT

Sunday, Jan. 3

Jacksonville at Houston, 1 p.m.

Oakland at Kansas City, 1 p.m.

Washington at Dallas, 1 p.m.

Detroit at Chicago, 1 p.m.

Minnesota at Green Bay, 1 p.m.

N.Y. Jets at Buffalo, 1 p.m.

New England at Miami, 1 p.m.

Tampa Bay at Carolina, 1 p.m.

New Orleans at Atlanta, 1 p.m.

Baltimore at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.

Pittsburgh at Cleveland, 1 p.m.

Tennessee at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.

Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.

St. Louis at San Francisco, 4:25 p.m.

San Diego at Denver, 4:25 p.m.

Seattle at Arizona, 4:25 p.m.

NBA Standings

By The Associated Press

EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic Division

Toronto Boston New York Brooklyn Philadelphia

W L Pct GB 19 13 .594 — 18 13 .581 ½ 14 18 .438 5 9 22 .290 9½ 2 31 .061 17½

The SUMTER ITEM

area roundup Southeast Division

Atlanta Miami Orlando Charlotte Washington Central Division

Cleveland Indiana Chicago Detroit Milwaukee

W L Pct GB 20 13 .606 — 18 12 .600 ½ 18 13 .581 1 17 13 .567 1½ 14 15 .483 4 W L Pct GB 20 9 .690 — 18 12 .600 2½ 17 12 .586 3 17 14 .548 4 12 20 .375 9½

WESTERN CONFERENCE Southwest Division

San Antonio Dallas Memphis Houston New Orleans Northwest Division

Oklahoma City Utah Portland Denver Minnesota Pacific Division

Golden State L.A. Clippers Sacramento Phoenix L.A. Lakers

Morant, Knights take down Titans in Carolina Classic FLORENCE – Ja Morant scored 29 points to lead Crestwood High School’s varsity boys basketball team to a 74-49 victory over Trinity-Byrnes on Tuesday in the Carolina Classic.

James Jennings added 14 points while Kobe Thomas

had 12 and Trevion Webber finished with 11.

GIRLS VARSITY BASKETBALL Sumter 62 Lee Central 37

W L Pct GB 27 6 .818 — 18 13 .581 8 17 16 .515 10 16 16 .500 10½ 10 21 .323 16 W L Pct GB 21 10 .677 — 13 16 .448 7 13 20 .394 9 12 19 .387 9 11 20 .355 10 W L Pct GB 29 1 .967 — 19 13 .594 11 12 19 .387 17½ 12 21 .364 18½ 5 27 .156 25

Monday’s Games

Indiana 93, Atlanta 87 Orlando 104, New Orleans 89 L.A. Clippers 108, Washington 91 Charlotte 108, L.A. Lakers 98 Brooklyn 111, Miami 105 Chicago 104, Toronto 97 San Antonio 101, Minnesota 95 Dallas 103, Milwaukee 93 Utah 95, Philadelphia 91 Cleveland 101, Phoenix 97 Golden State 122, Sacramento 103.

Tuesday’s Games

Detroit at New York, 7:30 p.m.

Miami at Memphis, 8 p.m.

Atlanta at Houston, 8 p.m.

Milwaukee at Oklahoma City, 8 p.m.

Cleveland at Denver, 9 p.m.

Wednesday’s Games

Brooklyn at Orlando, 7 p.m.

L.A. Clippers at Charlotte, 7 p.m.

Washington at Toronto, 7:30 p.m.

L.A. Lakers at Boston, 7:30 p.m.

Indiana at Chicago, 8 p.m.

Utah at Minnesota, 8 p.m.

Phoenix at San Antonio, 8:30 p.m.

Golden State at Dallas, 8:30 p.m.

Philadelphia at Sacramento, 10 p.m.

Denver at Portland, 10 p.m.

NHL

By The Associated Press

EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic Division

GP W L OT Pts GF GA Montreal 38 21 14 3 45 110 95 Florida 36 20 12 4 44 98 83 Detroit 36 18 11 7 43 93 94 Boston 35 19 12 4 42 108 94 Ottawa 36 18 12 6 42 108 105 Tampa Bay 37 18 15 4 40 95 88 Buffalo 36 15 17 4 34 85 94 Toronto 34 13 14 7 33 89 94 Metropolitan Division

GP W L OT Pts GF GA Washington 35 27 6 2 56 110 72 N.Y. Rangers 37 20 13 4 44 107 98 N.Y. Islanders 36 19 12 5 43 97 85 New Jersey 36 17 14 5 39 84 90 Pittsburgh 35 17 15 3 37 79 86 Philadelphia 35 15 13 7 37 76 96 Carolina 36 15 16 5 35 85 103 Columbus 38 13 22 3 29 92 120

WESTERN CONFERENCE Central Division

GP W L OT Pts GF GA Dallas 37 27 7 3 57 129 91 St. Louis 38 22 12 4 48 95 90 Minnesota 35 19 10 6 44 95 84 Chicago 37 20 13 4 44 97 89 Nashville 36 18 12 6 42 97 92 Colorado 37 18 17 2 38 106 102 Winnipeg 35 16 17 2 34 93 104 Pacific Division

GP W L OT Pts GF GA Los Angeles 35 22 11 2 46 93 79 Arizona 35 17 15 3 37 95 109 Vancouver 38 14 15 9 37 93 109 San Jose 35 17 16 2 36 96 100 Calgary 35 17 16 2 36 96 116 Edmonton 37 15 19 3 33 95 113 Anaheim 34 13 15 6 32 66 87 NOTE: Two points for a win, one point for overtime loss.

Monday’s Games

Montreal 4, Tampa Bay 3, SO Washington 2, Buffalo 0 Nashville 5, N.Y. Rangers 3 Minnesota 3, Detroit 1 Los Angeles 5, Vancouver 0 Colorado 6, San Jose 3

Tuesday’s Games

Ottawa at Boston, 7 p.m.

N.Y. Islanders at Toronto, 7 p.m.

Carolina at New Jersey, 7 p.m.

Dallas at Columbus, 7 p.m.

Montreal at Florida, 7:30 p.m.

Nashville at St. Louis, 8 p.m.

Detroit at Winnipeg, 8 p.m.

Anaheim at Calgary, 9 p.m.

Los Angeles at Edmonton, 9 p.m.

Chicago at Arizona, 9 p.m.

Wednesday’s Games

Toronto at Pittsburgh, 7 p.m.

Buffalo at Washington, 7 p.m.

New Jersey at Ottawa, 7:30 p.m.

N.Y. Rangers at Tampa Bay, 8 p.m.

Philadelphia at San Jose, 10:30 p.m.

college basketball

By The Associated Press

Monday’s Men’s Scores EAST Army 91, Monmouth (NJ) 84 Boston U. 86, Kean 53 Brown 81, Bethune-Cookman 73 Columbia 72, Howard 59 Cornell 65, St. Peter’s 62 Hofstra 80, Sacred Heart 73 Iona 77, Drexel 70 Rutgers 89, Mass.-Lowell 66 Stony Brook 83, NJIT 61 Villanova 77, Penn 57 SOUTH Belmont 85, Valparaiso 81 Duke 105, Elon 66 Gardner-Webb 101, Mid. Georgia St. 78 Green Bay 78, Morehead St. 72 High Point 96, Methodist 50 Longwood 90, Cairn 52 Louisiana Tech 77, Prairie View 58 North Carolina 96, UNC Greensboro 63 Texas A&M-CC 74, Austin Peay 70 UC Riverside 81, Morgan St. 72 UNC Wilmington 106, Campbell 83 W. Kentucky 93, Brescia 66 Winthrop 116, Rio Grande 84 MIDWEST Butler 92, IUPUI 54 Creighton 102, Coppin St. 77 E. Illinois 78, Hannibal-LaGrange 53 E. Michigan 88, Detroit 73 Grand Canyon 86, SIU-Edwardsville 75 Oakland 101, Chicago St. 93 South Dakota 89, Florida Gulf Coast 81, OT SOUTHWEST Houston 76, Nicholls St. 49 TCU 75, Delaware St. 47 FAR WEST Arizona St. 75, CS Bakersfield 59 California 86, Davidson 60 Sacramento St. 78, Pacific Union 49 Saint Mary’s (Cal) 65, Utah Valley 50 Seattle 80, UC Davis 75, OT UC Santa Barbara 83, Washington 78 Utah 115, Coll. of Idaho 74

Sumter High School’s varsity girls defeated Lee Central 62-37 in the District 9 Officials Christmas Tournament on Tuesday at The Castle.

Jessica Harris led the Lady Gamecocks with 18 points.

Kiara Jones had 14 and Kyra Wilson had 10.

boys

From Page B1 32-25 at the break.

An 8-0 run to start the second half -- highlighted by Tylik Simon’s 3-pointer and Calvin Felder’s 3-point play -gave SHS some breathing room again. Simon wound up second on the team with eight points while Felder was one of the players with five.

However, the Vikings battled back once more. Led by Jordan Sims and Nukie McFadden, the duo combined for 19 points in the second half (and 18 apiece total) as Latta pulled within 52-43 with plenty of time remaining.

A final run by the Gamecocks all-but sealed the victory, however. Ahmad Peoples and Xzavian Burson combined for eight points during a 10-2 run as SHS went up by 17 at one point and cruised the rest of the way. Both finished with seven points.

“With the way we rotated guys in, you knew there were going to be runs on both sides,” Jones said. “Our second unit is still learning; still a work-inprogress defensively. But we saw a lot of good things tonight and some things that we still have to work on.”

KEITH GEDAMKE / THE SUMTER ITEM The Gamecocks also did a betSumter’s Charles Patton (15) goes up for a rebound along with ter job rebounding in the second half. Latta held a 17-12 edge in Latta’s Jordan Sims (22) during the Gamecocks’ 68-54 victory the first half but SHS held a deon Tuesday at The Castle in the District 9 Officials Christmas cisive 19-9 advantage on the Tournament. boards in the second half.

Cedric Rembert and Jaylenn DISTRICT 9 OFFICIALS CHRISTMAS Corbett each added six points TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE for Sumter. Tyreek McAllister MONDAY C.E. Murray 71, Manning 70 had nine for Latta followed by C.E. Murray 59, Lamar 25 (Boys) (Boys) Maning 48, Lee Central 43 (Boys) Sumter 54, Manning 19 (Girls) Davonta Porter with eight.

Lee Central 50, Manning 44 (Girls) Latta 68, Lamar 51 (Boys) Lee Central 72, Latta 67 (Boys) C.A. Johnson 44, Lee Central 27 (Girls) Spring Valley 62, Blythewood 33 (Girls) Sumter 57, C.A. Johnson 42 (Girls) Spring Valley 58, Crestwood 36 (Girls) Sumter 63, C.E. Murray 46 (Boys) TUESDAY Manning 58, Lamar 53 (Boys) Manning 44, C.A. Johnson 39 (Girls)

girls

Sumter 62, Lee Central 37 (Girls) Sumter 68, Latta 54 (Boys) Crestwood 42, Blythewood 28 (Girls) Lee Central 61, Sumter 58 (Boys) TODAY at Crestwood Championship Games 6 p.m. — Sumter vs. Spring Valley (Girls) 7:30 p.m. — C.E. Murray vs. Lee Central (Boys)

Tickets: $7 for adults, $5 for students (high school or college) per day. Ticket good for both sites.

SUMTER 68, LATTA 54 SUMTER

32 36 -- 68

LATTA

25 29 -- 54

SUMTER Patton 10, Simon 8, Burson 7, Peoples 7, Rembert 6, Corbett 6, Johnson 5, Felder 5, Atkins 4, Tiller 3, Jackson 2, Williams 2, Singleton 2, Missilidine 1.

LATTA McFadden 18, Sims 18, McAllister 9, Porter 8, Hall 1.

“Effort-wise, it was all right. Our mistakes early in that game were just fundaFrom Page B1 SUMTER 30 24 — 54 mental stuff -- silly turnMANNING 9 10 — 19 trying to become that. Secovers, missed layups, missed SUMTER ond year there, still putting free throws -- but I felt like Abram 7, Kyra Wilson 14, Mcsome things in place and we the effort was there the maBride 9, Jessica Harris 13, Myles 3, Tyler 8. just got off to a fast start jority of the game, which MANNING (during the undefeated run). was a good thing to see.”

Brunson 4, Walker 1, Busby 2, Harvin 8, Goldsmith 4.

Today we just ran into some The second half began in more problems offensively, promising fashion for Manand we just had too many ed a little bit of our action ning as Kayla Goldsmith breakdowns defensively to from going inside to our post banked in a shot from the try to compete near the players, and we were relying right side to open the scorend.” too much on long-range ing, but a 9-0 Sumter run Both teams got off to pain- shots and the mediocre shots pushed the lead to 28, 39-11, fully slow starts offensively, instead of just trying to put with 13:02 to go. The lead with Sumter’s Jessica Harup a good challenge against topped out at 38, 54-16, beris scoring on a layup at the them on that.” fore Makeba Harvin, who 13:35 mark of the 16-minute Sumter will face defending topped the Lady Monarchs first half for the game’s first 4A state champion Spring with eight points, hit a lowpoints. Manning trailed 11-3 Valley in the title game bepost bucket and closed out a at the 7:05 mark of the half, ginning at 6 p.m. at The Cas- 3-point play at the line for with all three points coming tle. This will be the second the game’s final points. at the free throw line, when meeting between the teams Loudenslager said his Ambria Brunson scored the as SHS beat the Lady Viteam’s wide victory margin Lady Monarchs’ first basket kings 60-46 in its season was largely due to just of the game. Brunson added opener. catching a hot team at the another bucket shortly after Sumter head coach Jason right time. and Ariyonia Busby would Loudenslager, whose team is “I’ve been in their situaconnect for her only bucket 9-2 after beating Lee Central tion before. They came in of the game with 4:20 left, 62-37 following the Manning undefeated, they lost a tough pulling Manning within game, said the game’s 11 a.m one (50-44 to Lee Central on nine, 18-9. start likely contributed to Monday) and sometimes From there, Sumter would the sluggish play of both that’s tough to bounce back score the final 12 points of teams early. from,” Loudenslager said. the half to carry a 30-9 lead “Both teams got off to that “We were just fortunate into the break. Harris scored slow start,” said Loudenough to catch them on a all 13 of her points in the enslager, whose team defeat- day when they didn’t quite opening half while Kyra ed C.A Johnson, 57-42, in its get with it. We caught a good Wilson put in nine of her Monday tourney opener. break with that, but Darteam-high 14 for the Lady “We were over here in plenren’s got a good basketball Gamecocks. ty of time to get loose, but team and Manning’s going “Offensively, we got off to a some days it’s like that. Chr- to do good things this year, I slow start,” said Mazyck, sitmas break, it’s just kind think.” whose team completed tourof hard getting back into the Wilson finished with a nament play Tuesday eveswing of things. That’s why double-double for Sumter, ning against C.A. Johnson. we do the Christmas tourna- adding 10 rebounds and four “We kind of held our own for ments, the Thanksgiving steals to her 14 points. Anna a little while defensively, but tournaments, because every- McBride closed with 12 reit’s hard to match up with thing big is coming up two bounds, nine points, five the size that Sumter has on weeks from now (with reblocks and four steals while the inside. That kind of limit- gion play).

Harris also had four steals.

SUMTER 54 MANNING 19

sports

The SUMTER ITEM

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

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B3

pro football

Eagles, Kelly part ways with 1 game left

By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football Writer

back Byron Maxwell. Murray has been a bust and Maxwell has underperformed. Kelly PHILADELPHIA — GM even signed Tim Tebow, but Chip Kelly cost coach Chip released him after he won the Kelly his job. competition for the No. 3 quarThe Philadelphia Eagles terback job. fired Kelly Tuesday night with Kelly didn’t want players one game left in his third seaperceived as “me-first” guys. son, dumping the coach/perHe alienated some of his playsonnel boss after missing the ers, though the only ones who playoffs in consecutive years. spoke out against him did it Kelly was released before the after they were gone. finale of a disappointing seaMcCoy, the franchise’s allson that began with Super time leading rusher and a fan Bowl expectations. The Eagles favorite, made headlines when are 6-9 after going 10-6 two he said there’s a reason Kelly years in a row. They were elimgot rid of “all the good black inated from playoff contention players.” Cornerback Brandon after losing to Washington at Boykin, who was traded to home on Saturday night.

Pittsburgh, said Kelly was Eagles CEO Jeffrey Lurie is“uncomfortable” around black sued a one-sentence statement players. to the media, saying he appreOther players supported ciates Kelly’s contributions Kelly and moves such as signThe Associated Press ing Murray and Maxwell conand wishes him success going With one game remaining in a disastrous 6-9 season, Philadelphia parted ways with head coach Chip Kelly tradicted McCoy’s claim. But forward. on Tuesday. Kelly spent the last three seasons with the Eagles, going 10-6 in each of his first two years, Lurie told fans in an email Kelly’s reputation took a hit but missed the playoffs last season and this year. that he decided to make a anyway. change after “evaluating the Shortly after Kelly was many factors involved in our personnel. moves backfired. two-time Pro Bowl guard Evan fired, Eagles linebacker Emperformance as a team.”

Kelly gained full control of Since March 2014, Kelly reMathis and traded quartermanuel Acho tweeted: “Power The Eagles also fired Ed personnel decisions last offleased three-time Pro Bowl back Nick Foles and a 2016 tends to corrupt, and absolute Marynowitz, who was vice season, winning a power wide receiver DeSean Jackson, second-round draft pick for power corrupts absolutely.” president of player personnel. struggle with then-general traded two-time All-Pro runSam Bradford.

Suspended Cleveland Longtime NFL executive Tom manager Howie Roseman. But ning back LeSean McCoy, He also gave big money in Browns receiver Josh Gordon Donahoe will assume the role Kelly tore apart a winning didn’t re-sign 2014 Pro Bowl free agency to running back tweeted: “Shady, Maclin, of senior director of player team and several of his bold wideout Jeremy Maclin, cut DeMarco Murray and cornerFoles, Djax.. Smh.”

monday night football

Broncos survive in OT

BY ARNIE STAPLETON The Associated Press

and sealing Denver’s 20-17 win Monday night.

“It was my fault. I told the DENVER — One errant team that,” McCarron said. shotgun snap sent the for“I looked up to see the covertunes of the Denver Broncos age and the snap caught me and Cincinnati Bengals in by surprise.” different directions.

This was just the big play AJ McCarron took his eyes Ware’s been looking for ever off his center for a split-secsince missing a month with a ond to look at the coverage bad back. and both the snap and Cin“Felt great to finish the cinnati’s surest path to a game that way,” Ware said. first-round bye slipped away “We thought we were going — along with a chance to to finish it with the field goal earn the AFC’s top seed next but at the end of the game, week. it’s all about that win.”

DeMarcus Ware secured Ware’s recovery followed a both the fumble and Denver’s 37-yard field goal by Brandon ticket to the playoffs, clampMcManus, whose shanked ing down on the loose foot45-yarder at the end of reguball 6 minutes into overtime lation made necessary the

extra drama.

“I’m 24 years old and I don’t think I’ve ever kicked the ball like that in my life: grade school, elementary school or anything like that,” McManus said. “I just wrapped my toe around it and I knew I had to bounce back.”

He did, and Ware’s followup capped Denver’s second comeback from a 14-0 deficit at home this season. The Broncos (11-4) also beat New England in overtime last month after spotting the Patriots a two-touchdown lead in the first half.

Denver’s comeback denied the Bengals (11-4) their first road win on a Monday night

men’s top 25 roundup

Temple pulls away to upset Cincy CINCINNATI — Quenton DeCosey scored 19 points and hit three free throws in the closing seconds, helping Temple pull away to a 77-70 victory over No. 22 Cincinnati on Tuesday, the Owls’ first win over a ranked team this season.

Temple (6-5, 1-0 American Athletic) had lost its three previous games against Top 25 teams — North Carolina, Butler and Utah — but closed the game with an 11-5 run to get the breakthrough win.

The Bearcats (10-4, 0-1) have dropped four of their past seven games, including back-to-back losses against Iowa State and Temple on their home floor.

(13) Miami 76 Princeton 64

CORAL GABLES, Fla. — Angel Rodriguez scored 14 points and Miami withstood an upset bid.

Davon Reed finished with 13 points and Ja’Quan Newton scored all of his 13 in the second half for the Hurricanes (11-1).

Rodriguez’s two free throws and 3-pointer during a 1-minute stretch late in the second half put the Hurricanes ahead for good. Rodriguez’s conversion from behind the arc with 5:02 left gave Miami a 62-58 lead.

(14) Purdue 61 Wisconsin 55

MADISON, Wis. — A.J. Hammons scored 24 points, Dakota Mathias hit two 3s in

bowl roundup

Ron Jenkins/The associated press

California wide receiver Kenny Lawler (4) celebrates one of his three touchdown receptions on Tuesday during the Bear’s 55-36 win over Air Force in the Armed Forces Bowl in Fort Worth, Texas.

Bowl schedule

By The Associated Press

Tuesday, Dec. 29

Armed Forces Bowl Fort Worth, Texas California 55, Air Force 36 Russell Athletic Bowl Orlando, Fla. Baylor 49, North Carolina 38 Arizona Bowl Tucson Nevada (6-6) vs. Colorado State (7-5), 7:30 p.m. (ASN) Texas Bowl Houston Texas Tech (7-5) vs. LSU (8-3), 9 p.m. (ESPN)

Wednesday, Dec. 30

Birmingham (Ala.) Bowl Auburn (6-6) vs. Memphis (9-3), Noon (ESPN) Belk Bowl Charlotte, N.C. NC State (7-5) vs. Mississippi St. (8-4), 3:30 p.m. (ESPN) Music City Bowl Nashville, Tenn.

Louisville (7-5) vs. Texas A&M (84), 7 p.m. (ESPN) Holiday Bowl San Diego Wisconsin (9-3) vs. Southern Cal (8-5), 10:30 p.m. (ESPN)

Thursday, Dec. 31

Peach Bowl Atlanta Houston (12-1) vs. Florida State (10-2), Noon (ESPN) Orange Bowl (Playoff Semifinal) Miami Gardens, Fla. Clemson (13-0) vs. Oklahoma (111), 4 p.m. (ESPN) Cotton Bowl Classic (Playoff Semifinal) Arlington, Texas Alabama (12-1) vs. Michigan State (12-1), 8 p.m. (ESPN)

the Associated Press

Temple’s Josh Brown (1) celebrates after the Owls upset No. 22 Cincinnati 77-70 on Tuesday in Cincinnati. the final 1:19 and Purdue held on to beat Wisconsin.

The Boilermakers (13-1, 1-0 Big Ten) snapped a four-game losing streak to the Badgers (8-6, 0-1), who lost their first conference game under interim coach Greg Gard.

But Purdue needed the two late 3s by Mathias after Wisconsin had narrowed an 11point deficit to 52-49 with 1:40 left on a short jumper by Alex Illikainen.

(17) SMU 81 TULSA 69

TULSA, Okla. — Shake Milton, a freshman from the Tulsa suburb of Owasso, had a spectacular homecoming, scoring a career-high 24 points and going 7 of 8 from 3-point range to lead Southern Methodist in the American Athletic Conference opener for both teams.

Nic Moore added 23 points as the Mustangs (12-0, 1-0) shot 56.4 percent (31 of 55), above their conference-leading percentage of 52.4 percent.

(23) BAYLOR 72 TEXAS SOUTHERN 59

WACO, Texas — Al Freeman scored 21 points and ignited a key run that finally put No. 23 Baylor in control on the way to a victory over Texas Southern on Tuesday.

The Bears (10-2), in their final game before opening Big 12 Conference play, led only 44-40 in the second half before Freeman made a layup and then hit a 3-pointer to start a 10-0 run. By time Johnathan Motley made a short jumper for his first points and Lester Medford made a 3, it was 54-40 with 11:11 left.

From wire reports

Friday, Jan. 1

Outback Bowl Tampa, Fla. Northwestern (10-2) vs. Tennessee (8-4), Noon (ESPN2) Citrus Bowl Orlando, Fla. Michigan (9-3) vs. Florida (10-3), 1 p.m. (ABC) Fiesta Bowl Glendale, Ariz.

Notre Dame (10-2) vs. Ohio State (11-1), 1 p.m. (ESPN) Rose Bowl Pasadena, Calif.

Iowa (12-1) vs. Stanford (11-2), 5 p.m. (ESPN) Sugar Bowl New Orleans Oklahoma State (10-2) vs. Mississippi (9-3), 8:30 p.m. (ESPN)

Saturday, Jan. 2

TaxSlayer Bowl Jacksonville, Fla. Penn St. (7-5) vs. Georgia (9-3), Noon (ESPN) Liberty Bowl Memphis, Tenn.

Kansas St. (6-6) vs. Arkansas (75), 3:20 p.m. (ESPN) Alamo Bowl San Antonio Oregon (9-3) vs. TCU (10-2), 6:45 p.m. (ESPN) Cactus Bowl Phoenix West Virginia (7-5) vs. Arizona State (6-6), 10:15 p.m. (ESPN)

Monday, Jan. 11

College Football Championship Game Glendale, Ariz.

Orange Bowl winner vs. Cotton Bowl winner, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN)

Baylor shows off its No. 1 offense vs. UNC ORLANDO, Fla. — Johnny Jefferson rushed for three touchdowns and a bowl-record 299 yards, and No. 18 Baylor ran past No. 10 North Carolina 49-38 in the Russell Athletic Bowl on Tuesday night.

Despite missing two quarterbacks, an award-winning receiver, and a 1,000-yard running back, the Bears’ No. 1-ranked scoring offense stayed creative, pounding out 645 yards rushing and 756 total yards — both records.

Devin Chafin added 161 yards and a touchdown, and Terence Williams rushed for 97 yards and two touchdowns for the Bears (10-3).

North Carolina (11-3) tried to match Baylor’s scoring output but had a key fumble in the third quarter that stifled its comeback efforts.

Marquise Williams passed for 243 yards and three scores,

armed forces bowl cALIFORNia 55 AIR FORCE 36

FORT WORTH, Texas — Jared Goff threw for 467 yards and six touchdowns and California won in the postseason for the first time in seven years, beating Air Force 55-36 in the Armed Forces Bowl.

Goff had three of his scoring tosses in a span of five plays in the second quarter as the Bears (8-5) broke a 14-14 tie and cruised in a rematch of the 2007 Armed Forces Bowl, also won by Cal (42-36).

Receiver Kenny Lawler had three touchdowns for Cal, which last made the postseason in a 21-10 loss to Texas in the Holiday Bowl in 2011. The Bears’ last bowl win was 24-17 over Miami in the 2008 Emerald Bowl near their Bay Area campus.

From wire reports

B4

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sports

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

The SUMTER ITEM

Oklahoma football

Journey began with stand against racism

By PAUL NEWBERRY The Associated Press FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — On a balmy morning in south Florida, Baker Mayfield and his Oklahoma teammates goofed around beneath the swaying palms as they posed for a picture in front of the Orange Bowl logo, their tight bond forged by the ups and downs of a long season — the grueling practices, the lonely hours in the weight room, the incessant scrutiny that comes with playing in a high-profile program.

For the Sooners, though, it goes deeper than that.

When a racist video shot by members of an Oklahoma fraternity went viral last March, exposing an ugly side to campus life and the isolation that many African-American athletes feel, the football team took a stand.

In many ways, that’s where the Sooners (11-1) began their journey to the College Football Playoff, setting up a semifinal game against top-ranked Clemson (13-0) in the Orange Bowl on New Year’s Eve. “It was a huge thing that we had to deal with,” receiver Sterling Shepard said Monday.

“It could have split the team in either of two directions. The team could’ve went downhill, because you had a group of guys that believed something and another group of guys

cockerill

From Page B1

No. 1 overall ranking and an Orange Bowl matchup on Thursday in Miami against Oklahoma for the right to play for a national title, the choice seems like a no-brainer now.

It wasn’t at the time -- and the normally always optimistic Cockerill found himself suffering setback after setback on the long road to fulfilling his dream of playing college football.

It started in the middle of his senior season at Sumter.

Cockerill had been offered a full scholarship to play at Football Championship Subdivision school Liberty University in Virginia and was going to take it.

Then, word came down to him that the coaching staff had left and they were not going to offer him the scholarship.

Starting the recruitment process all over again, Cockerill had interest from Furman, Wofford, Newberry and Coastal Carolina to name a few. He finally got what he was looking for though when Wingate University offered him a full ride -- half of it an academic scholarship, the other half athletic.

The next week, Wingate informed Cockerill that his scholarship had been given

got a great family atmosphere,” said Reader, who is black, “but I might be oblivious to some things that happen.”

Clemson has been through its own racial turmoil, though it hasn’t really extended to the football team. In recent years, there have been calls to change the moniker on the university’s signature building, Tillman Hall, which is named after former South Carolina governor and U.S. senator Benjamin Tillman, a staunch white supremacist who led the effort to disenfranchise black voters in the late 1800s.

The Associated Press “You can see some divisions,” Reader said. “It’s not as hard being an athlete because leading to the resignation of white. “We can influence peoyou’re isolated a lot. You can’t the university president last ple. We can have an effect.” really do things. We don’t have month.

While the Sooners protest In retrospect, it would be garnered plenty of attention, it time to do a lot of things. I simplistic to imply that every- didn’t change a reality at most think if you want to do stuff (as a minority), it’s pretty one on Oklahoma’s football major universities: Blacks often make up a hefty percent- tough on you.” team felt the same degree of age of the football and men’s Yet, as Oklahoma and other outrage when the offensive schools have shown, athletics video came to light. Some were basketball teams, yet those can be a powerful conduit to deeply offended, others would numbers are rarely reflected in the student body at large. address social ills. have preferred to stay out of At Oklahoma, blacks com“I think it played a big part the whole mess. That’s where prise a scant 5.3 percent of en- with just everybody coming tothe team’s leadership — playgether as a team,” said offeners both black and white, sup- rollment on a campus with ported by coach Bob Stoops — more than 27,000 students. The sive lineman Nila Kasitati, African-American numbers who is from American Samoa. came together to ensure that are slightly higher at Clemson “There are different events, an issue dividing the campus — 6.25 percent for the most re- things that happened throughdidn’t lead to a devastating cent semester, but still less out the season, throughout the split of team unity. than 1,500 in a student body of year, that brought us together “We realized our power and more than 22,000. as a team, brought us to where our stage,” said Mayfield, the “I think at Clemson we’ve we are right now.” team’s star quarterback who is

The University of Oklahoma football team and coaches line up wearing all black last March in the Everest Training Center in Norman, Okla., to protest a racist video shot by a campus fraternity.

It is considered a bonding moment for the team.

that believed something. But we were able to come together as a team and kind of work that thing out.”

The nine-second video showed members of Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s Oklahoma chapter singing a song that used a racist slur for black people and referenced lynching.

The Sooners halted spring practice in protest, providing a glimpse of the power college athletes can have when they dressed in all black and walked arm-in-arm at Owen Field. It was a precursor to Missouri’s black players taking an even stronger stand, threatening to boycott a game over the lack of response to a series of racial grievances,

“I thought about it for all of five seconds and decided to go. If I was going to walk on, I was going to go big.” william Cockerill to someone else.

“That was probably the biggest blow in all of this,” he said. “That left me pretty bummed and disappointed.

It’s one of the few times it was hard to stay positive.

“I had to ask myself, ‘Do I really want to do this?’”

Wingate did offer to let the SHS alum walk on, and while pondering that decision, Cockerill finally caught a break.

“About two or three days after Wingate pulled their scholarship, I found out that Clemson had reached out to me and wanted me to walk on,” he said. “I thought about it for all of five seconds and decided to go.

“If I was going to walk on, I was going to go big.”

Then, another hurdle was thrown in Cockerill’s path.

Since he was a walk-on, he had to apply to enroll at Clemson and wound up not getting in.

Instead he opted for the Tri County Technical College Bridge to Clemson program that would get him into school, but he still had to try out the following year and earn his way on the squad.

orange bowl

From Page B1

during media day at Sun Life Stadium.

“We know what it takes to win the game. One thing about the media: They’ve got to talk, they’ve got to come up with stuff.”

The media has nothing to do with the national statistics, which have Oklahoma outside the top 20 in all four major defensive categories. The Sooners are tied for 22nd in points allowed (20.8 per game).

Clemson has been stingy when it comes to defending the pass, but a bit leaky against the run. The Tigers are giving 20.2 points a game, tied for 18th nationally.

“It’s about getting the W,” Clemson cornerback Mackensie Alexander said.

“It ain’t always gonna be pretty. When I hear people say, ‘Aww, you guys gave up all these points,’ I’m like, ‘We’re the number one team in the country.’ Everybody is gonna play us hard, have tricks, do everything they can. For the last six weeks, everybody has been throwing everything at us, everything they’ve got.”

Only two teams in the last 30 years

“It was still my dream to play college ball,” Cockerill said. “So that’s what I did.

Then over the summer they called me and told me that roster spot had opened up and I didn’t have to try out.

“It was a lot of situations that were out of my control.

I just had to keep a good head and keep working.”

The emotional endurance eventually paid off. He didn’t see any action in 2013, but after switching positions and putting on close to 40 pounds of extra weight and muscle, Cockerill finally saw his first collegiate action in 2014 on Sept. 6 against South Carolina State. He played 12 snaps that day and also got on the field for one snap against N.C. State on Oct. 4.

“Changing positions and gaining weight was tough on me and kind of made me wonder why I went through all of this,” Cockerill said.

“But once I got on the field, it all went away. It was only (12) plays or so, but it just reinforced my love of the game and why I fought so hard to get here.

“I was nervous for the first play but after that I haven’t

have won national titles while allowing at least 20 points a game, but both have come in the last five seasons — mirroring the game’s ever-increasing emphasis on offense.

Ohio State won the championship a year ago despite giving up 22.0 points per contest, ranking 26th nationally.

Cam Newton-led Auburn finished No. 1 in 2010 while surrendering an average of 24.1 points, which placed a mediocre 53rd in the national rankings.

Of course, it’s still a better bet that a team will claim the title by stopping the other team from scoring. Between Auburn and Ohio State, three straight national champions (Alabama in 2011-12, Florida State in 2013) ranked No. 1 in points allowed. In the last three decades, just five other champions finished higher than 10th nationally in points allowed.

None of that seems to faze these teams.

“We’ve very flexible on defense,” Alexander said. “What we’re able to do on defense, nobody can match that. There are defensive coordinators in college football who are like, ‘Man, I wish I could be coaching you guys.’ We’ve got a lot of great players.”

Playing in the run-and-gun Big 12 Conference, Oklahoma is used to facing

really been nervous anymore.”

Cockerill saw time against Wofford, Boston College and Wake Forest this season, but at the very least, he’s had a front-row seat for the Tigers’ dream season.

“It’s been so amazing,” he said. “I know a lot of people doubted us, doubted the offensive line all year, and we’ve come through and found a way to win each game.”

The most memorable game was the home game against Notre Dame, Cockerill said.

“That was just wild,” he said of the 24-22 victory. “It was like playing in a monsoon, but the stadium was packed and everyone was so into the game. It was a great game too. A great game to watch.”

Cockerill is hoping for at least two more this season, starting on Friday against the Sooners. Intending to get his Masters Degree after the year is over, Cockerill is content to give up his final year of eligibility.

“It’s something I want to do and it’s time to start a new chapter and move on to the next challenge,” he said.

“But I’ll be grateful for my time here and the relationships I’ve built will last a lifetime.

“Hopefully, there’s one more good thing to come in my football career.”

A national championship.

dynamic offenses.

This might be their toughest challenge yet. Start with Watson, a Heisman Trophy finalist and probably the most dangerous two-way threat in the country. He can beat you with his arm (3,512 yards passing, 30 touchdowns), he can beat you with his legs (887 yards rushing, 11 TDs). He has weapons all around, including running back Wayne Gallman (1,332 yards rushing, 10 TDs) and nine players with double-figure receptions led by Artavis Scott (84 receptions).

Mayfield and the Sooners are just as daunting. The junior quarterback has passed for 3,389 yards with 35 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He, too, can take off and run, which led Boulware to describe him as “kind of Manzielesque” — a nod to former Texas A&M star Johnny Manziel. Three Oklahoma receivers have hauled in more than 40 passes, while Samaje Perine has rushed for 1,291 yards and 15 TDs. Hard to see this being a defensive struggle.

That’s not to say it won’t come down to a big defensive play.

“Whenever you’ve got two great offenses,” said Clemson linebacker B.J. Goodson, “it’s always gonna be about who’s making big stops in big moments.”

orange bowl notebook

Tigers just 2 wins shy of historic 15-0 campaign The Associated Press Clemson is playing for something never done in college football history: 15-0.

Granted, teams play more games now than ever before, but the significance of being the first to 15 isn’t lost on the Tigers. There’s been five teams in the last 15 years to go 14-0, two others that went 14-1 (including national champion Ohio State last season), but the Tigers have a shot at going to a place that no FBS team has gone before.

“We had said before the season started that we wanted to be the best ever and we wanted to go 15-0,” Clemson standout defensive end Shaq Lawson said. “So that was our goal before the season even started, and we’ve got a chance of reaching our goal.”

Yes, the Tigers will give the requisite “one game at a time” cliche going into Thursday’s College Football Playoff semifinal against Oklahoma. But Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson won’t even try to deny that the Tigers know the significance of the record that will be theirs if they win the national title.

“Of course,” Watson said.

“We want to be the best ever.

There’s never been a 15-0 team in college football. But first we’ve got to get past this one and continue our journey.”

SEEING DOUBLE Twin brothers will be heading to the national championship game.

Whether they’ll be in Oklahoma or Clemson colors remains to be decided.

There’ll be twins on both sidelines in the Orange Bowl game Thursday night, with Oklahoma quarterback Trevor Knight and tight end Connor Knight on one side, Clemson linebackers J.D. and Judah Davis on the other.

Neither set of twins knew about each other before they arrived at Tuesday’s media day for the College Football Playoff semifinal matchup.

“Twin takeover,” Connor Knight said.

OBITUARIES

THE SUMTER ITEM

STANLEY D. FRANKENSTEIN COLUMBIA — Stanley “Stan” Douglas Frankenstein passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015, at Palmetto Health Richland in Columbia.

He was born on July 6, 1952, to Melvin and FRANKENRuth FrankenSTEIN stein, in Huron, South Dakota.

He graduated from Huron High School. Stan was known for his love of family, hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his two daughters, Mandy Bumgarner of Elgin and Carrie Truell of Sumter; their mother, Mary Turner; one son, Sean Frankenstein of Lamar; two stepchildren, Timothy Bradley and Ashley Kennon of Lamar; their mother, Debora Frankenstein; one brother, Roger Frankenstein of Dante, South Dakota; one sister, Janice Kiker of Florence; seven grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents; and one brother, Richard Frankenstein of Diamond Bar, California.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. today at KistlerHardee Funeral Home, 315 Pearl St., Darlington, SC 29532.

Memorial donations can be made to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America Inc. at www.myasthenia.org or to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.

ROSETTA D. HARRIS Rosetta D. Harris, 88, beloved wife of Charles E. Harris, died on Thursday, Dec. 24, 2015, at her residence.

A memorial service will be held at noon on Saturday at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church.

You may go to www.bullockfuneralhome.com and sign the family’s guest book.

The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home for the arrangements.

KENNETH G. DUKE CLOVER — On the afternoon of Dec. 28, 2015, Kenneth “Gene” Duke passed away after his battle with cancer.

His loving wife, Doris, was by his side at Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House in Rock Hill.

Gene was 74 years old.

Gene was born on July 12, 1941, in Kingstree, the first child of Kenneth and Letha Duke. Gene was a father of three, two sons and one daughter. He was a family man who married his high school sweetheart, Doris, on June 11, 1961. Gene spent 22 years in the United States Air Force and provided his family with a wonderful adventure, living in several states and overseas throughout those years. All of Gene’s children were educated not only in public schools, but in different cultures and geographic areas that proved to prepare them for life’s expectations. Both of Gene’s sons, Bryan and Kevin, went on to serve in the military, following in their father’s footsteps.

Kevin once said, “My dad is the smartest man I have ever known,” and his friends always said, “If you want something done right, get Gene to do it!”

After 22 years of decorated service in the military, Gene retired and started a new career in education. Gene held three college degrees, an associate of arts from the University of Maryland and an associate and bachelor of arts degrees from the University of South Carolina. Gene taught high school students for another 20 years before retiring once again. Although

Gene and his wife Doris lived in numerous states and overseas, they did settle in Sumter, where they lived for more than 25 years before moving to Clover to be close to their loving grandchildren. Gene loved to travel, see new places and new things, so he and Doris bought a motor home and spent a year traveling throughout the United States.

They also bought some property in the mountains of Tennessee, where they both enjoyed spending time together with what he always said was his second family, their dear friends at TCPC in Tennessee.

Gene was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth B. Duke, and mother, Letha Duke.

Gene is survived by his wife, Doris E. Duke; his brother, Larry Duke of Hartsville; his three children, Kenneth B. Duke (Pam) of Wilmington, North Carolina, Kevin Lee Duke (Sandy) of Little River and Darbie Jan Bufford (Britt) of Clover; and his grandchildren, Kelsey Bufford, Garrett Bufford and Vincent Duke.

Visitation will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. today at Williamsburg Funeral Home, 332 E. Main St., Kingstree. A memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. in the chapel with burial to follow at Kingstree Memorial Gardens.

Memorials may be made to the Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House in Rock Hill.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

DOROTHY DUDA Dorothy Maxine Chandler Duda died on Monday, Dec. 28, 2015, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in Sumter, she was a daughter of the late Harry Mathis Chandler Sr. and Annie Lou Simpson Chandler.

Mrs. Duda was retired from Korn Industries.

Surviving are a daughter, Maxine Elaine Duda Hoppe; two sons, Donald Lynn Duda and Lawrence Wayne Duda; one sister, Carol C. Robertson; and two brothers, Roy A. Chandler and Joe D. Chandler.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Harry M. Chandler Jr.; and a sister, Frances C. Prescott.

Private graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. today in the Sumter Cemetery.

The family would like to thank McElveen Manor and Tuomey Regional Medical Center for their compassionate care of Mrs. Duda.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals. com Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.

HENRY W. MATHIS JR. Henry Wenzel Mathis Jr., 82, passed away on Dec. 28, 2015, at McElveen Manor.

Born on July 29, 1933, in Sumter to Henry Wenzel and Mary Barwick Mathis, he was the grandson of police chief John M. and Edith D. Barwick and J. Benjamin and Annie Weldon Mathis. He and his family were Lutheran and Methodist.

Henry graduated from Edmunds High School and attended the University of South Carolina in Columbia.

He was a veteran of the Korean War. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was assigned to the Naval Air Corps, which stationed him at Barbers Point, Hawaii.

Henry’s career in heavy equipment financing led him to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he resided until his retirement. In 1998, he returned

to Sumter. He continued his lifelong passion for physical fitness at the YMCA, where he met and cultivated many friends. He enjoyed his daily breakfast with friends at Hardees until Alzheimer’s robbed him of these pleasures in 2010. He will be remembered for his sharp wit and sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Nancy R. Mathis.

Surviving are daughter, Kathryn Easton; stepdaughter, Vicki Roberts; grandsons, Kent and Joel Easton; and lifelong friend, John Thompson.

Memorials can be made to the Sumter SPCA, 1140 S. Guignard Drive, Sumter, SC 29150 or to Alzheimer’s Association, 3223 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia, SC 29169.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday in the chapel of Elmore-Hill McCreight Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals. com Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home and Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.

WILLIAM L. ERVIN Pastor William Leroy Ervin, beloved husband of Vermelle Capers-Ervin for 11 years, was called to eternal rest on Friday, Dec. 25, 2015, at his home.

Pastor Ervin was born on Jan. 24, 1928, in Camden, New Jersey, a son of the late Samuel and Jessie May Ervin. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson Vocational High School in Camden, New Jersey, in 1946.

He served 18 months in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947.

Before beginning college, Pastor Ervin worked several years with his father in Camden, N.J. His journey to begin his college education started by the purchase of a “Message Magazine” from a man on the street who invited him to attend church with him at Mt. Olive Seventh-day Adventist Church in Camden. He then accepted the “The Angels Message” of the Seventh-day Adventist beliefs and became a member of the Mt. Olive Church. His college education started at Oakwood College (now Oakwood University) in Huntsville, Alabama, where he received his bachelor of arts degree in religion as his major and biology as his minor in 1955. He then attended Potomac University (now Andrews University) in Barren Springs, Michigan, where he received his master of arts degree in Bible and systematic theology in 1957.

Pastor Ervin pastored churches in the Alleghany East Conference in New Jersey and Maryland areas. He retired in 1993. He truly had a passion for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and enjoyed eating and snacking in the middle of the night.

He later moved to Sumter, S.C. with his fiancée, Vermelle Capers, where they united in marriage on June 2, 2004.

He later joined Berea Seventh-day Adventist Church.

He then pastored as interim pastor for the South Atlantic Conference of churches in Lagrange, North Carolina; Hemingway; Florence; Darlington; S.C. District; and Manning and Sumter, S.C. District.

He is survived by his devoted loving wife, Vermelle Capers-Ervin of the home; one stepdaughter, Karen CapersAdams of Orange, New Jersey; one step-granddaughter, Latoya Capers of Paterson, New Jersey; two step-grandsons, Douglas Capers of Paterson and Reginald Adams of Orange; six great-great-grand-

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015 children; several nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ethel Braxton-Ervin; one daughter, Dawn Ervin; four brothers; and three sisters.

Public viewing will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. today at Job’s Mortuary.

Pastor Ervin will be placed in the church at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday for viewing until the hour of service.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday at Berea Seventh Adventist Church with Pastor Marquis Jackson officiating. Interment will follow in Fort Jackson National Cemetery, Columbia.

The family is receiving friends at the home, 78 Hoyt Heights St., Sumter.

Job’s Mortuary Inc., 312 S. Main St., Sumter, is in charge of arrangements.

ROBERT L. WALKER Robert Lowry Walker, 67, husband of Frances Kinard Walker, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015, at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence.

He was the only son of Eula Tidwell Walker and the late Lowry Lepage Walker. Mr. Walker was a member of Fraser Memorial Presbyterian Church and Claremont Masonic Lodge. He was a retired plumbing contractor and also retired from Clarendon County as a codes inspector.

Surviving are his wife of Sumter; his mother of Sumter; three children, Robert Lowry “Robbie” Walker of Manning, and Donna W. Gilbert and Roddy Walker, both of Greer; and four grandchildren, Carson Walker, Callie Walker, Mallory Gilbert and Zane Walker.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday at Fraser Memorial Presbyterian Church with Pastor Chuck Staggs officiating.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. on Thursday at Fraser Memorial Presbyterian Church and other times at the home of his mother, 1221 Bradd St. Memorials may be made to Fraser Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1746 U.S. 521 South, Sumter, SC 29153.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals. com Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.

MINNIE I. SANDERS-MILLER Minister Minnie I. SandersMiller, 66, transitioned from labor to reward on Friday, Dec. 25, 2015, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center, after a period of illness.

Born on July 29, 1949, in Sumter County, she was a daughter of the late Henry and Lillie Mae Mack Sanders and wife of the late Isaiah Miller Jr. Minnie attended the public schools of Sumter County. Upon graduation from Ebenezer High School, she continued her education throughout various colleges and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in early childhood education. She was wellknown in the community as a teacher at High Hills Daycare Center and later went on to open Mary’s Little Angels Daycare Center. Minnie accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, later becoming a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ at Mt. Sinai Holiness Temple, continuing to work many years working as a faithful, devoted, and humble servant of Jesus Christ.

She worked on the ministerial staff, was an adult Sunday

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school teacher, and prayer warrior. Wherever her hands were needed, she worked faithfully.

Minnie leaves to cherish her precious memories: her children, one daughter, Pamela Miller of the home; two sons, Adrian (Tonya) Miller of Columbia and Eric (Robin) Miller of Sumter; one sister, Irma (Ben) Stephens of Macon, Georgia; two brothers, Deacon John (Mary) Sanders of Rembert and Deacon Willie (Karen) Sanders of Somerset, New Jersey; one uncle, Walter Sanders of Rembert; one aunt, Sally Tarver of Columbus, Ohio; seven sisters-in-law; three brothers-in-law; 11 grandchildren; two greatgrandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Rosa T. “Bo” Rembert.

Funeral services will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday at Mt. Sinai Holiness Temple, 5610 Dinkins Mill Road, Rembert, with Pastor Tyrone Champagne, interim pastor, and Bishop Michael Pressley, eulogist.

The family is receiving relatives and friends at the home of her daughter, Pamela Miller, 5355 Borden Road, Rembert.

The remains will be placed in the church for viewing at 2:30 p.m.

The funeral procession will leave at 3 p.m. from the home.

Floral bearers and pallbearers will be family and friends.

Burial will be in the Mt. Sinai Holiness Temple Cemetery.

Services directed by the management and staff of Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter.

Online memorial messages may be sent to the family at williamsfuneralhome@sc.rr. com.

Visit us on the web at www.

WilliamsFuneralHomeInc.com

MYRTLE BLANDING COLUMBIA — On Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015, Myrtle Blanding, companion of Roosevelt Sumter, exchanged time for eternity at Palmetto Health Richland.

Born on Aug. 30,1954, in Manning, she was a daughter of Elreeda Martin Blanding and the late Alfred Blanding Sr. The family is receiving relatives and friends at the residence of her mother, 4203 Silver Road, Manning.

Funeral services are incomplete and will be announced

by Fleming & Delaine Funeral Home & Chapel.

TESSY G. DEWIL Tessy Gross Dewil, 69, wife of Thomas Arthur Dewil, died on Saturday, Dec. 26, 2015, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in Munich, Germany, she was a daughter of Anna Gross Laspiza and the late Jack Laspiza. Mrs. Dewil attended Lakewood Baptist Church. She was a retired executive chef with the Jewish Synagogue in Long Island, New York.

Surviving are her husband; two Yorkies, Boo Boo and Shadow; a son, Frank Ferris; two daughters, Janine Ciafonne and Christie Beaulieu; a brother, Bill Dewil (Delores); a sister, Linda Blocker (Dan); a nephew, Matt Dewil; six grandchildren, Daniel, Amanda, Christopher, Jaclyn, Robert and Thomas; and a cousin, Judy Wadford.

Memorial services will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday at Lakewood Baptist Church with the Rev. Sammy Thompson officiating.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals. com Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.

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CLASSIFIEDS

THE ITEM

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015

803-774-1234

OR TO PLACE YOUR AD ONLINE GO TO WWW.THE ITEM.COM/PLACEMYAD

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL NOTICES Summons & Notice ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS C/A NO. 2014-CP-43-2547 STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF SUMTER CitiFinancial Servicing LLC, Plaintiff vs.

The Personal Representative, if any, whose name is unknown, of the Estate of Francis Ellis a/k/a Francis V. Ellis; and any other Heirs-at-Law or Devisees of Francis Ellis a/k/a Francis V. Ellis, 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.

It appearing to the satisfaction of the Court, upon reading the Motion for the Appointment of Kelley Y. Woody, Esq. as Guardian ad Litem for all unknown persons and persons who may be in the military service of the United States of America (which are constituted as a class designated as "John Doe") and any unknown minors and persons who may be under a disability (which are constituted as a class designated as "Richard Roe"), it is ORDERED that, pursuant to Rule 17, SCRCP, Kelley Y. Woody, Esq. is appointed Guardian ad Litem on behalf of all unknown persons and persons who may be in the military service of the United States of America (constituted as a class and designated as "John Doe"), all unknown minors or persons under a disability (constituted as a class and designated as "Richard Roe"), all of which have or may claim to have some interest in the property that is the subject of this action, commonly known as 328 N. Magnolia Street, Sumter, SC 29150, that Kelley Y. Woody, Esq. is empowered and directed to appear on behalf of and represent all unknown persons and persons who may be in the military service of the United States of America, constituted as a class and designated as "John Doe", all unknown minors and persons under a disability, constituted as a class and designated as "Richard Roe", unless the Defendants, or someone acting on their behalf, shall, within thirty (30) days after service of a copy of this Order as directed below, procure the appointment of a Guardian or Guardians ad Litem for the Defendants constituted as a class designated as "John Doe" or "Richard Roe".

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that a copy of this Order shall be served upon the unknown Defendants by publication in the The Item, a newspaper of general circulation in the County of Sumter, State of South Carolina, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks, together with the Summons in the above entitled action.

SUMMONS AND NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT(S) 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; 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.

Summons & Notice 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 Francis V. Ellis to CitiFinancial Servicing LLC bearing date of August 12, 2005 and recorded August 15, 2005 in Mortgage Book 993 at Page 115 in the Register of Mesne Conveyances/Register of Deeds/Clerk of Court for Sumter County, in the original principal sum of Twenty Five Thousand Two Hundred Ten and 65/100 Dollars ($25,210.65). That thereafter, the Mortgage was assigned unto Plaintiff, which assignment is dated August 28, 2014 and to be recorded in said ROD Office., 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: That property with any improvements thereon situate in School District 17, Sumter County, South Carolina, representative as Lot 15 on plat of R.F. McLellan dated January 7, 1938, recorded in the Sumter County RMC Office in plat book G-5 at page 152.

Together with all and singular, the Rights, Members, Hereditaments and Appurtenances to said Premises belonging or in anywise incident of appertaining. TMS No. 249-08-04-016 Property Address: 328 N. Magnolia Street, Sumter, SC 29150 Riley Pope and Laney, LLC Post Office Box 11412 Columbia, South Carolina 29211 Telephone (803) 799-9993 Attorneys for Plaintiff A-4553839 12/16/2015, 12/23/2015, 12/30/2015

CLASSIFIED DEADLINES 11:30 a.m. the day before for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday edition.

9:30 a.m. Friday for Saturday’s edition 11:30 a.m. Friday for Sunday’s edition.

We will be happy to change your ad if an error is made; however we are not responsible for errors after the first run day. We shall not be liable for any loss or expense that results from the printing or omission of an advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, refuse or cancel any ad at any time.

Septic Tank Cleaning

Carolina Healthcare Hospice is seeking RN's and CNA's in the Sumter, Columbia & Clarendon Counties. Forward resumes to PO Box 464, Sumter SC 29151 or call 803-774-4377.

Septic Tank Cleaning Call the pros for all of your septic pumping needs. 803-316-0429 Proline Utilities, LLC

Tree Service NEWMAN'S TREE SERVICE Tree removal, trimming & stump grinding. Lic/Ins 803-316-0128 Ricky's Tree Service Tree removal, stump grinding, Lic & ins, free quote, 803-435-2223 or cell 803-460-8747.

STATE TREE SERVICE Worker's Comp & General liability insurance. Top quality service, lowest prices. 803-494-5175 or 803-491-5154 www.statetree.net A Notch Above Tree Care Full quality service low rates, lic./ins., free est BBB accredited 983-9721

PETS & ANIMALS Dogs German Shepherd puppies, born Nov. 9th. $200 ea. Call Harry 803-460-7112 lv msg.

ANNOUNCEMENTS MERCHANDISE In Memory

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

Open every weekend. Call 803-494-5500

For Sale or Trade Firewood for sale, off Sally & McLaurin.

You cut & haul $50 a quart, $25 1/2 & $12.50 a basket. 803-305-2159 or 803-983-7728 Louise Anderson Alpha May 24, 1949 Omega Dec 30, 2014 It's been a year since your Angel Wings were ready. As much as we love you, God loves you best. You are sadly missed by your children and grandchildren.

BUSINESS SERVICES

Martin's Used Appliance Washers, Dryers, Refrig., Stoves.

Guarantee 464-5439 or 469-7311.

Year-End Payroll Reports Forms W-2 -1099 Tesco 507 Broad St 803-773-1515

Local / Regional Drivers Immediate openings for experienced Van, Tanker & Rolloff drivers. Class A CDL with Hazmat & Tank endorsements required with 2 years verifiable experience. Mileage starts as high as .41 per mile and top rate .45 per mile along with stop pay, hourly pay and per diem on overnight trips. $1,000.00 sign on bonus and assigned equipment. Medical, Dental, Prescription & Life Insurance plans along with 401K and profit sharing. Paid Holidays, Earned PTO time and .03 per mile yearly Safety/Performance Bonus plan. Applicants can apply in person at FCI 132 Myrtle Beach Hwy Sumter, SC 29153 or call 1-888-249-2651 ext-24

paint roofs gutters drywall blown ceilings ect. 773-9904 JAC Home Improvements 24 Hr Service. We beat everyone's prices, Free Est. Licensed & Bonded 850-316-7980

Legal Service

NOTICE

Attorney Timothy L. Griffith 803-607-9087, 360 W. Wesmark.

Criminal, Family, Accident, Injury

Help Wanted Full-Time

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 November 25, 2014.

Roofing

Local Tree Service Co. looking for CDL driver, bucket operator & climber. Call 803-478-8299

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

All Types of Roofing & Repairs All work guaranteed. 30 yrs exp. SC lic.

Virgil Bickley 803-316-4734.

Robert's Metal Roofing 35 Years Experience. 45 year warranty. Financing available. Expert installation. Long list of satisfied customers. Call 803-837-1549.

Manufactured Housing

Nice 2 BR 1 BA home. Safe area. $480 mo. + sec dep. No pets. Sec. 8 OK. Close to Shaw. Call 803-968-5329.

Was your home affected by the recent FLOODS? Use your FEMA CHECK for a down payment on one of our quality used refurbished homes. We specialize in on the lot financing. Low credit score is OK. Call 843-389-4215 AND also visit our Face Book Page (M&M Mobile Homes)

Mobile Home Rentals

Schools / Instructional • Tax Preparer • Training provided Jan 2nd. Day and evening classes available.

•Customer Service• Free week long tax preparation class with customer service focus. Learn computerized tax preparation in day or evening classes starting Jan 2nd.

Apply for seasonal opportunities.

803-418-0123

Work Wanted Need Help putting your house back together since the storm? Specializing in cabinets & trim work.

803-481-4464

RENTALS Unfurnished Apartments Nice 1 Br, 1 Ba apt. in downtown area. Hardwood floors, refrigerator & stove, C/H/A, no pets. $450 mo. Call 803-491-5375.

Clean 3BR 1BA 50 Spider Ct. near Red Bay Rd. $375 mo + $600 dep.

No pets. 803-638-9066 lv msg.

2, 3 & 4 Bedroom for rent, Cherryvale & Dogwood Area $250 & up. (803) 651-9926 2, 3 & 4 Bedroom. Scenic Lake MHP, in Sumter/Dalzell area. No pets. 499-1500 9am-5pm

Minutes Walmart/Shaw, acre, cleared, septic, water. $13,900.

888-774-5720

Commercial Industrial

3 & 4 Br, 2 ba, all appliances, Sumter & Dalzell area. Section 8 accepted. 469-6978.

Avail. Jan. 1st- SW off 15 S Ramsey Rd 3BR 2BA 1 Ac. Lot , fresh paint, new carpet $400 Mo + $300 Dep Call 803-795-9970

For Sale- Lake Side Restaurant, Bar, Convenience Store, gas pumps & docks. Property is leased. Lake Marion. All equipment & furniture are included. Call 904-554-7663

2, 3 & 4 Bedroom for rent, Cherryvale & Dogwood Area $250 & up. (803) 651-9926

TRANSPORTATION

Nice 3BR 2BA SW on 1 acre. 5 min. to Shaw, all appl's, $650 mo+dep. 803-983-0371

Autos For Sale

STATEBURG COURTYARD 2 & 3 BRs 803-494-4015

Senior Living Apartments for those 62+ (Rent based on income) Shiloh-Randolph Manor 125 W. Bartlette.

775-0575 Studio/1 Bedroom apartments available EHO

Unfurnished Homes

Land & Lots for Sale

2014 Honda Accord Sport, black int/ext. Very clean, garage kept. 48K mi. Extras. $17,500. 803-938-2945.

REAL ESTATE Homes for Sale

Home for sale 47 Alice Dr 2 BR 1BA Call 803-469-6318

HUNTINGTON PLACE APARTMENTS

FROM $575 PER MONTH

1 MONTH FREE THIRTEEN (13) MONTH LEASE REQUIRED

(803) 773-3600 POWERS PROPERTIES

803-773-3600

595 Ashton Mill Drive Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9-5

For Sale, Christmas Special! 1387 Raccoon Rd. Mayesville area. Must Sell! 3 br, 1.5 ba, lg bldg side yard, 1 ac lot C/H/A. Fin avail. No dwn pymt.

Pymt of $431 mo. 464-5960 For Sale 821 Holiday Drive 2BR, 1BA, Den, LR. $61,900. Call 803-983-7064.

EMPLOYMENT Trucking Opportunities

H.L. Boone, Contractor: Remodel

Unfurnished Homes

Expert Tech, New & used heat pumps & A/C. Will install/repair, warranty; Compressor & labor $600. Call 803-968-9549 or 843-992-2364

Accounting & Bookkeeping

Home Improvements

Help Wanted Full-Time

FT/PT Front Desk Clerk. Some experience & computer knowledge helpful. Apply in person 9 - 3pm.

Mon -Fri. at Mt. Vernon Inn, 2 Broad St. Sumter.

Classified in-line Advertising Edition

Wed., December 23 Thurs., December 24 Sat., December 26 Sun., December 27 Thurs., December 31 Sat., January 3 Sun., January 4

Deadline

Tues., December 22 at 9:30am Tues., December 22 at 11:30am Wed., December 23 at 9:30am Wed., December 23 at 11:30am Wed., December 30 at 11:30am Thurs., December 31 at 9:30am Thurs., December 31 at 11:30am

Have a Safe and Merry Christmas!

NO PROOF DEADLINES Deadline is 24 hours earlier if proof is required Business office will be closed December 24th and 25th and January 1

Driver and mechanic needed.

Driver will be home on weekends.

Call 843-621-0943 or 843-621-2572

MAYO’S SUIT CITY

20 N. Magnolia Street • Sumter, SC 803-774-1200

TUXEDOS AVAILABLE for rental or purchase

Winter Clearance Sale IN PROGRESS NOW!

If your suits aren’t becoming to you, It’s a good time to be coming to Mayo’s!

Wesmark Plaza • 773-2262 • Mon-Sat 10-7 • www.MayosDiscountSuits.com

SECTION

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015 Call Ivy Moore at: (803) 774-1221 | E-mail: ivy@theitem.com

‘Picture Yourself in Art’ at Patriot Hall Sumter students make classic works interactive

BY IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com

‘P

eople are having a lot of fun” with the current ex-

hibit in Patriot Hall’s Gallery 135, according to Carmela Bryan, executive director of the Sumter County Cultural Commission. The exhibit is the brain child of Heidi Adler, head of the fine arts department at Sumter High School.

The premise of the show titled “Picture Yourself in Art” is that it provides “an opportunity for (viewers) to pose with an iconic piece of art,” Adler said. In most cases, they can pose not just with the art, but actually become part of it.

The exhibition had its genesis several years ago, when Adler painted Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” for a festival called “Spring for the Arts,” sponsored by then Sumter School District 17 schools’ combined fine arts departments.

“I came up with the idea so that the photography classes could have an ‘arty’ photo booth,” she said.

Festival goers could pose with clothing and props similar to those worn by Wood’s models to have their photographs taken.

“After the festival the painting was packed away for a decade,” Adler said.

She was reminded of the painting earlier this year when her uncle sent her a link to a YouTube video of a flash mob recreating Rembrandt’s famous “Night Watch” painting. (See it online at http://bit.ly/1hgMrDP. ) Adler was inspired “to do something along these lines for the Cultural Commission,” she said.

That concept involved devising ways for people to insert themselves into the iconic artworks.

When Adler introduced the idea during a meeting, she said, Bates Middle School art teacher “Jessica Millwood suggested we do something where people can post the art on the web.”

Millwood also came up with the hashtag for posting the photos on Instagram — check out #sumterpictureuinart.

Adler said students from five Sumter School District schools selected the artworks in which they wanted to see themselves and others.

“This project is an effort to bridge the gap between historical artwork and contemporary technology to make it relevant to our students and bring the art work to life,” she said. “This is an interactive show, and we invite you to take a picture of yourself in the artwork the students in Sumter School District have recreated.”

Schools, artists, artwork

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Andy Warhol’s celebrated painting of Marilyn Monroe provided the perfect opportunity for Sara Bryan to get into art at Gallery 135 in Patriot Hall. The exhibit can be seen through Jan. 31.

ABOVE: Frederick Bryan “pictures himself” in Edvard Munch’s “The Scream.” Sumter School District art teachers and students created modified copies of iconic artworks for an exhibit at Gallery 135 in Patriot Hall. Viewers can insert themselves into the paintings to bring them to life. BELOW: Sarah Skinner poses inside a copy of Henri Matisse’s “Purple Robe and Anemones.” Several different artworks were recreated and modified by local art students so that people can become part of them. They can then have photos taken and post them on Instagram. and teachers in that order are: • Sumter High School — Andy Warhol, Marilyn Monroe —Kristen Boegner • Sumter High — Henri Matisse, Purple Robe and Anemones — Deana Rennick • Sumter High — Grant Wood, American Gothic — Heidi Adler • Sumter High — Edvard Munch, The Scream — Heidi Adler • Lakewood High — Jonathan Green, White Breeze — Roseetta Davis • Bates Middle School — Johannes Vermeer, Girl with a Pearl Earring — Emily Simon • Rafting Creek and Delaine Elementary — Dogs Playing Poker — Caitlin Murtha • Ebenezer Middle — Alice in Wonderland in different artistic styles — Beverly Cornell Picture Yourself in Art can be seen in Gallery135 at Patriot Hall in the Sumter County Cultural Commission, 135 Haynsworth St., from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Jan. 31, except for holidays. Admission is free. Call (803) 436-2260 for more information.

Original voice of Star Wars emperor speaks again

BY NICK THOMAS Tinseltown Talks

A

s the world briefly suspends reality and escapes to a galaxy far, far away since “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” was released nationwide on Dec. 18, Clive Revill is not among the millions flocking to movie theaters.

But as any Star Wars fan worth his weight in action figures knows, Revill was cast as the original voice of the Emperor in “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back.”

“I got a call from the director, Irvin Kershner, who I’d worked with on ‘A Fine Madness,’” recalled Revill from his home in Los Angeles. “He needed a voice for the Emperor who would be only appearing as a holographic image.

So I tried it several times and found it worked best with no emotion whatsoever.”

Although his scene with Darth Vader spanned barely a minute in the original theatrical release, his voice was replaced in the 2004 DVD by that of Ian McDiarmid, who went on to play the Emperor in Episode VI and the three prequels. Yet fans still line up to meet Revill at sci-fi conventions.

“They come up to me, and I tell them to get close and shut

PHOTO PROVIDED

Actor Clive Revill is shown as a hologram at left, when he was the voice of the emperor in “Star Wars: Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.” At right, he’s shown talking to Peter Falk in the final episode of the TV series “Columbo.” their eyes,” he said. “Then I say (in the Emperor’s haunting voice) ‘There is a great disturbance in the Force.’ People turn white and one nearly fainted!”

Revill remains indifferent about the voice replacement.

“I was the original Emperor, but they wanted continuity with the later movies. They made a good choice with Mc-

Diarmid.”

Born in New Zealand, Revill moved to London in 1950 where he studied acting at the famed Old Vic Theatre. He traveled the U.K. working in traditional stage productions, eventually finding his way to Broadway and Hollywood.

“The first film I vividly remember working on is ‘Modesty Blaise,’” said Revill of the

1966 spy spoof in which he played a Scotsman, but convinced the director he could pull off a second role.

“I got the makeup man to transform me into an Arab, then marched over to (director) Joseph Losey, who was drinking in his hotel room.

The makeup and my accent were so good, he didn’t recognize me until I said ‘Joe, it’s

Clive’ and he almost dropped his drink. So I ended up with the two roles.”

Revill’s talent for accents, dialects and even singing were showcased in the 1978 Columbo episode, “The Conspirators,” where Revill played a jovial but deadly Irishman.

“It was the last episode Peter Falk did in the original Columbo series,” he noted.

“But there was no sense of regret on the set that the show was ending. Peter and I had a lot of creative fun interacting with each other’s characters.”

Now 85, Revill says he has retired from acting although he doesn’t rule out future voice work. And while he remains amazed that his oneminute involvement in a Star Wars film still resonates with fans today, he says he’s never seen a Star Wars film.

But he understands their appeal.

“People can detach from their reality and live in this other fantasy reality for a short while,” he says. “That’s the magic of film.”

Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala., and has written features, columns and interviews for more than 600 magazines and newspapers. Follow @TinseltownTalks

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015

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FOOD

THE SUMTER ITEM

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Sweet and Sour Kielbasa Relish comes together quickly and easily and can be made up to five days ahead.

Add kielbasa relish to your cheese platter

BY ALISON LADMAN The Associated Press

T

here’s nothing wrong with a standard issue platter of

delicious cheeses set out as part of a holiday party spread. In fact, we often find ourselves hovering around it. After all, eating cheese is far more enjoyable than small talk with strangers.

But wouldn’t it be great if that same cheese platter was jazzed up a little? Because while cheese is great, cheese and meat is even better. And while you could just add some sliced prosciutto to the platter, why not go over the top for the holidays? Why not make this simple sweet-and-sour kielbasa relish?

This recipe boasts big sweetsavory-sour flavors that are the perfect complement to cheese. It also comes together quickly and easily and can be made up to five days ahead. If refrigerated, warm briefly on the stove or in the microwave.

SWEET-AND-SOUR KIELBASA RELISH Start to finish: 40 minutes Servings: 10 12-ounce kielbasa, finely diced 1 large yellow onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, diced 14 1/2-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup cider vinegar 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Kosher salt and ground black pepper In a large, deep skillet over medium, cook the kielbasa, stirring often, until caramelized and well browned, 6 to 7 minutes. Add the onion and garlic and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, brown sugar, vinegar and red pepper flakes. Continue to cook, maintaining a simmer until thick and jammy, 10 to 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then allow to cool slightly. Serve warm.

Nutrition information per serving: 120 calories; 50 calories from fat (42 percent of total calories); 6 g fat (2 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 25 mg cholesterol; 520 mg sodium; 11 g carbohydrate; 1 g fiber; 7 g sugar; 5 g protein.

A little reduction has a big impact

BY J.M. HIRSCH AP Food Editor All the best holiday cocktails start with drinks you make for your 11-year-old, right? Or is that just me?

The boy was craving what is known in our house as a “special drink.” Which basically means anything with sugar.

Except we rarely have soda in the house, so special drinks usually are homemade concoctions combining some blend of seltzer water, juice and whatever else inspires me in the moment.

On this night, all I had in the refrigerator were apple cider and orange juice. So using my killer mixology skills, I dumped those together then added a splash of seltzer.

He loved it.

And that is how I got the inspiration for this adult version. I still combine the cider and juice, but then simmered them down in a reduction. The resulting syrup is spooned into glasses, topped with a splash of amaretto liqueur, then finished with a healthy pour of sparkling wine. A sprig of rosemary adds a fresh touch.

THE SPARKLING ORCHARD GROVE Start to finish: 25 minutes Servings: 8 1 cup apple cider 1/2 cup orange juice 4 ounces amaretto liqueur 750-milliliter bottle sparkling wine 8 sprigs fresh rosemary In a small saucepan over medium-high, combine the cider and orange juice. Simmer until reduced to 1/2 cup, 20 to 25 minutes. Set aside to cool.

To prepare each cocktail, pour 1/2 ounce of the cider-juice reduction into a sparkling wine flute. Add 1/2 ounce of amaretto liqueur to each glass, then top with sparkling wine. Lightly smack each rosemary sprig several times against the counter to release the oils, then add 1 sprig to each cocktail.

Up your olive game with these easy marinated olives

BY ALISON LADMAN The Associated Press We know that when you were a kid, you loved shoving those tasteless canned black olives onto the tips of your fingers, then nibbling them off one at a time. And we know that every time you see a bowl of those same tasteless black olives you’re tempted to do it again. Because there is something satisfying about wiggling and nibbling olive-topped fingers.

But unless you’re 5, that just doesn’t pass muster during holiday entertaining season. So instead, we urge you to up your olive game and try serving these easy marinated olives. No finger wiggling needed.

MARINATED OLIVES FOUR WAYS Start to finish: 1 day (10 minutes active) Makes about 2 cups HERB AND SEED In a dry skillet, toast 1 tablespoon caraway seeds and 1 tablespoon fennel seeds until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Mix in 2 tablespoons each of minced fresh rosemary, minced fresh thyme and minced fresh marjoram. Add 1/2 cup olive oil and 2 cups Sicilian or other large green olives. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

AGRODOLCE

Combine 1 1/2 cups mixed olives, 1/2 cup golden raisins, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary, 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic, and the zest and juice of 1 orange.

Cover and refrigerate overnight.

TOASTED GARLIC In a small skillet over medium, heat 1/4 cup olive oil. Add 3 tablespoons chopped garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until lightly browned and fragrant. Add to 2 cups Kalamata olives along with 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

LEMON-PUMPKIN SEED Combine the zest of 1 lemon, 1/4 cup pumpkin seed oil (or lemon-flavored olive oil), 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds and 2 cups Castelvetrano olives.

FOOD

THE SUMTER ITEM

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015

Nothing less than chocolate will do on some days

BY MELISSA D’ARABIAN The Associated Press

I

f you were to join my family for dinner on a regular weeknight (go

for it, but call first!), you’d see our typical dessert routine in action.

It works like this: My husband grabs my favorite tiny bamboo cutting board and a paring knife while I grab a variety of fruit. Then we sit with our four daughters, chatting about our days — sometimes enjoying an impromptu dance show from one or more of the girls — as we pass wedges of pears or whatever around the table. It’s sacred family time.

But... Sometimes a girl needs a serious dessert. And by serious, I mean chocolate.

Yes, I’ll sometimes satisfy this need by nibbling on a square of dark chocolate with my decaf espresso. That’s fine.

But for truly special occasions I whip up little edible chocolate bowls. They take just minutes to make using chocolate chips, and you can fill them with berries, your favorite fruit, or anything else you want. These little bowls are fun enough to make for kids’ sleepovers, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party.

I love buying the darkest chocolate chips I can find (usually 60 percent) because I love the almost-bitter flavor of darker chocolate. Plus, it is

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These edible chocolate bowls take just minutes to make using chocolate chips, and you can fill them with berries, your favorite fruit, or anything else you want.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

healthier.

Once you master the (simple) technique of making these chocolate baskets, you can easily customize them, adding cinnamon, cayenne, rosemary, chunky sea salt, flecks of orange zest, whatever your imagination desires. I usually fill my bowls with berries or in-season fruit (try lightly sauteed pears), but feel free to treat them like super tasty tart crusts and build even more decadent desserts in them.

DARK CHOCOLATE BERRY BASKETS Start to finish: 30 minutes Servings: 8 1 cup dark chocolate chips 1 teaspoon coconut oil 2 tablespoons finely chopped toasted almonds Kosher salt 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (white, if you have it) 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar Ground black pepper 2 cups halved or quartered fresh strawberries (or other berries or orange segments, membranes and seeds removed) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint In a large glass or other microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate and coconut oil.

Microwave on 50 percent power, stopping to stir every 30 seconds, until melted and smooth, about 3 minutes.

Spread a few spoons of the melted chocolate into a silicone cupcake liner, using the back of the spoon to spread the chocolate up the side of the liner so it is evenly and thickly coated. Sprinkle the wet chocolate with a teaspoon of almonds and a tiny pinch of kosher salt. Repeat with 7 more liners. Chill the chocolate until firm, at least 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix together the vinegar, brown sugar and a pinch of pepper. Add the strawberries and toss to coat. Let sit to allow flavors to meld for at least 15 minutes, or up to a few hours. Immediately before serving, stir the mint into the strawberries, remove the chocolate baskets from the molds and spoon in the berries.

Nutrition information per serving: 170 calories; 90 calories from fat (53 percent of total calories); 10 g fat (7 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 0 mg cholesterol; 40 mg sodium; 23 g carbohydrate; 3 g fiber; 20 g sugar; 3 g protein.

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COMICS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015

THE SUMTER ITEM

BIZARRO

SOUP TO NUTS

ANDY CAPP

GARFIELD

BEETLE BAILEY

BORN LOSER

BLONDIE

ZITS

MOTHER GOOSE

DOG EAT DOUG

DILBERT

JEFF MACNELLY'S SHOE

Catholic hospitals value lives of mother, child DEAR ABBY — You printed a letter from a woman (Nov. 25) whose husband told her while she was pregnant that, if it came to a choice, he would choose the life of the baby over hers. Your response contained a piece of misinformation I would apDear Abby preciate you correcting for ABIGAIL your readers.

You asserted that it is VAN BUREN Catholic policy to save the life of the baby over the mother in obstetrical emergencies. Abby, that is one of the oldest but most persistent pieces of misinformation out there! This inaccurate statement has been replayed even in movies in spite of repeated denials by Catholic hospitals and the professionals who render care in them.

The fact is: Catholic policy is abundantly clear on the dignity of both mother and baby, and makes no priority of one over the other.

Catholic hospitals operate with the same

THE DAILY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

standards of safety in maternity care and are inspected by the same organizations that inspect non-Catholic maternity programs such as the Joint Commission and the licensing agency of each state. Catholic hospitals must adhere to the same robust standards as every other maternity service in the country.

I would appreciate it if you could assure your readers that, while this makes for good movies and novels, it is not the Catholic position. The dignity of the life of both mother and baby are critically important to all those serving in Catholic health care. Thank you for your help with this.

Sr. Carol Keehan, president and chief executive officer, Catholic Health Association DEAR SISTER CAROL — Since printing that letter, I have received a crash course in ethics at Catholic hospitals. I apologize to you and to my Catholic readers for saying what I did.

In the interest of educating my readers, I am sharing some of the enlightening letters I received.

JUMBLE

SUDOKU

THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME

By David L Hoyt and Jeff Knurek

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

By Michael Dewey

ACROSS 1 Coors "malternative" 5 NFL ball carriers 8 Silently understood 13 National Air and Space Museum movie format 14 Culturally affected 16 Shrine to remember 17 It may lead to an acquisition 20 Bucket filler 21 Cooking oil brand 22 Sport with masks 23 Nag's comment?

25 Binding words 27 Stately tree 28 Coalition 32 SeaWorld swimmer 33 Strauss' "__ Rosenkavalier" 34 Source of ultraviolet rays 35 Evidently is 37 Enthusiasm 39 The Masters or The Open 43 Aurora's Greek counterpart 45 Beat a hasty retreat

47 Yawner 48 With "the," one's best shot 51 Dashboard meas.

53 __ Jose 54 Race paces 55 Met showstopper 57 "We can do it, team!"

59 Belittle 62 Sincere intention to be fair 65 Maneuver around 66 Jordanian queen dowager 67 Vacationing, perhaps 68 Know without knowing why 69 Second afterthought: Abbr.

70 Daughter of Elizabeth II DOWN 1 Pasta choice 2 All-in-one Apple 3 Act in a conciliatory way 4 Log splitter 5 Plundered 6 Khrushchev's successor 7 Texas ALer

12/30/15 8 What Tweety tawt he taw 9 Out of the wind 10 Pitcher in the woods 11 Spur on 12 Tribal symbol 15 Connecticut Ivy Leaguer 18 Fail to say 19 "Voilà!" cries 24 Glossy coating 26 Egg cell 28 "__ Boys": Alcott sequel 29 Rock to refine 30 Practice exercise 31 How money might be lost 36 Fixes the fairway, say 38 Soda jerk's workplace 40 Makes a note of

41 Boston Garden hockey immortal 42 Spanish king 44 Milan's Teatro alla __ 46 Business deals 48 John Glenn, for one 49 Words often starting a long shot 50 Blunder 51 Dungeons & Dragons spellcasters 52 Demonstrate as true 56 Tacks on 58 Sporty car roof 60 Farsi-speaking land 61 Eye sore 63 Membership cost 64 LAX overseer

Tuesday’s Puzzle Solved

©2015 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

12/30/15

TELEVISION

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News 19 @ 7pm Inside Edition (N) Evening news up- (HD) date.

Wheel of ForJeopardy! (N) tune: America’s (HD) Game (N) (HD) Naturescene in S Expedition ConCarolina: Cooper nected wildlife.

River The Big Bang The Big Bang Theory Howard Theory (HD) returns. (HD) Anger Manage- Anger Management Eccentric ment Eccentric therapist. (HD) therapist. (HD)

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Law & Order: Special Victims Unit: Criminal Pathology The SVU returns to the crime scene. (HD) Code Black: Sometimes It’s a Zebra Guthrie’s son is new attending surgeon. (HD) The Middle: Flirt- The Goldbergs: A Modern Family black-ish: ing with Disaster Chorus Lie (HD) Extended family. Churched Church (HD) (HD) invitation. (HD) Nature: Animal Misfits A look at how In Defense of Food (N) (HD) odd animals live & thrive. (HD)

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015 10 PM

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Chicago P.D.: A Dead Kid, a NoteWIS News 10 at book, and a Lot of Maybes Dangerous 11:00pm News teenager. (HD) and weather.

Criminal Minds: The Job Several News 19 @ 11pm candidates are considered for a va- The news of the cant position at the BAU. (HD) day.

The Goldbergs black-ish: ABC Columbia Erica forms a club. Daddy’s Day (HD) News at 11 (HD) (HD) Tavis Smiley (HD)

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(:35) The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon Comedic skits and celebrity interviews. (HD) (:35) The Late Show with Stephen Colbert “Downton Abbey” stars; Adam McKay. (HD) (:35) Jimmy Kimmel Live Celebrities and human-interest subjects. (HD)

BBC World News International news.

Empire: Fires of Heaven Cookie and Rosewood: Bloodhunt and Beats WACH FOX News at 10 Local news TMZ (N) 2 Broke Girls: Anika’s secret performance gets the Rosewood, Villa in depths of report and weather forecast.

And the Fun Facattention of Pitbull. (HD) everglades. (HD) tory (HD) iHeartRadio Jingle Ball 2015 iHeartRadio holds Whose Line Is It The Closer: Serving the King, Part 1 A The Closer: Serving the King, Part 2 star-filled holiday celebration event with live perforAnyway? (HD) murder is linked to a terrorist group. Brenda hunts a suspected terrorist. mances. (HD) (HD) (HD)

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Duck Dynasty Duck Dynasty: John Luke Gets 20/20: Meet the Trumps Profile of (:01) Who is Donald Trump? A dar- (:02) Duck Dy(:32) Duck Dy(:01) Duck Dy(HD) (HD) Hitched Wedding ceremony. (HD) Donald and wife Melania. (HD) ing profile. (HD) nasty (HD) nasty (HD) nasty (HD) The Walking Dead: Prey Plans sabo- The Walking Dead: This Sorrowful The Walking Dead: Welcome to the The Walking Dead: 30 Days Without The Walking 180 The Walking Dead: Arrow on the Doorpost Hopes for peace. (HD) taged. (HD) Life Sacrifice for peace. (HD) Tombs (HD) an Accident (HD) Dead (HD) 100 Treehouse Masters (HD) Treehouse Masters (HD) Treehouse Masters (HD) Tanked: Holiday Madness (HD) (:02) Treehouse Masters (HD) Treehouse 162 Martin DJ’s atti- Martin DJ’s atti- Martin DJ’s atti- Martin DJ’s atti- Martin DJ’s atti- Martin DJ’s atti- Martin DJ’s atti- Martin DJ’s atti- Martin DJ’s atti- Martin DJ’s atti- Wendy Williams tude. tude. tude. tude. tude. tude. tude. tude. tude. tude.

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CNN Tonight with Don Lemon Anderson Cooper 360° (HD) Anthony South Park (HD) South Park: Gin- South Park (HD) South Park: More Jeff Ross Roasts Criminals: Live at South Park: 136 South Park: T.M.I. South Park (HD) South Park (HD) South Park A (HD) new fad. (HD) ger Kids (HD) Crap (HD) Brazos County Jail (HD) Goobacks (HD) Descendants (‘15, Action) aac Dove Cameron. Trouble-making children Best Friends Liv and Maddie Girl Meets World Austin & Ally So Raven Getting 80 K.C. Undercover BUNK’D (HD) (HD) of villains get chance to attend prep school in kingdom. (HD) Whenever (HD) (HD) (HD) (HD) it together.

103 Alaskan Bush People (HD) Alaskan Bush People: Off (N) Alaskan Bush People (N) (HD) Men, Women, Wild (N) (HD) Alaskan Bush People (HD) Men, Women 35 College Football: Texas A&M Aggies vs Louisville Cardinals from LP Field in Nashville, Tenn. z{| (HD) College Football: USC Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers (HD) 39 College Basketball: Clemson vs North Carolina z{| (HD) College Basketball: Syracuse Orange at Pittsburgh Panthers (HD) SportsCenter (HD) Lizzie McGuire 131 (5:30) Pitch Perfect (‘12, Comedy) (:15) Grease (‘78, Musical) aaa John Travolta. During the 1950s, a teenager wants to prove himself to a new The 700 Club aaa Anna Kendrick. (HD) girl in school, but he trips up when he tries to maintain a cool image with his friends. (HD) (‘03) aa (HD) 109 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives (HD) Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives (HD) Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives (HD) Mystery (N) Mystery (HD) Mystery (HD) Mystery (HD) Diners (HD) 74 On the Record with Greta (N) The O’Reilly Factor (N) (HD) The Kelly File News updates.

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‘Mozart in the Jungle’ begins streaming new season

BY KEVIN MCDONOUGH “Mozart in the Jungle,” a gem that arrived at the end of 2014, returns for a second season on Amazon. A whimsical and, at times, even magical, inside look at a New York philharmonic orchestra, “Mozart” works as both a high art romp and a good old-fashioned soap opera.

As season two begins, the heartthrob genius conductor Rodrigo (Gael Garcia Bernal) is seen having a strange conversation with Mozart himself.

And the composer hints that the Mexican maestro just might be an exotic phony. Hailey (Lola Kirke), the struggling young oboist at the center of things, still doesn’t know what to make of the kiss she shared with Rodrigo at the end of season one.

Despite working hard on her artistry, she’s still stuck as the conductor’s personal assistant, a role she thought she transcended some time back.

Thomas (Malcolm McDowell), the dethroned conductor, appears to be happy composing his great masterpiece. But there are patrons and donors eager to see him return and replace the rebel that they have come to call “Che Guevara.”

Bernadette Peters makes the absolute most of her role as Gloria Windsor, the flirty president of this floundering cultural institution, forever fundraising and refereeing fights between patrons, conductors and high-strung musicians. Trouble is compounded this season when the orchestra asks for a new contract and hires a highpowered labor negotiator (Gretchen Mol, “Boardwalk Empire”).

“Mozart” makes the most of its affluent New York setting, but never descends into the trite subjects of sex, shopping and money found in so many series since “Sex and the City.”

Its characters are eccentric but passionate, and they care deeply about art without appearing, or sounding, elitist or phony.

It’s a delicate tightrope act, nicely negotiated by writers Roman Coppola and Jason Schwartzman and director Paul Weitz. Schwartzman, a regular in Wes Anderson’s films, is also an executive producer. One of the small miracles of “Mozart” is how much character exploration, politics and intrigue it can jam into 30-minute morsels. “Mozart” is

On two helpings of “The Goldbergs” (ABC, r, TV-PG): a change of octave (8:30 p.m.), public pools (10 p.m.) * Guthrie’s son joins the staff on “Code Black” (9 p.m., CBS, r, TV14) * Improv on “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” (9:30 p.m., CW, r, TVPG) * On two helpings of “black-ish” (ABC, r, TV-PG): positive thinking (9:30 p.m.), an alternative Father’s Day (10:30 p.m.) * Replacing Kate on “Criminal Minds” (10 p.m., CBS, r, TV14).

LATE NIGHT

CHUCK HODES / FOX

Guest star Pitbull appears in a repeat of the “Fires Of Heaven” episode of “Empire” airing at 8 p.m. on FOX. not your typical television comedy. It is a very good one.

• New Year’s resolutions arrive in roughly 24 hours! Most of them involve eating. The documentary “In Defense of Food” (9 p.m., PBS, TV-PG, check local listings) features author Michael Pollan, who travels the world to see how we can save our food supply from the commercial and technological “improvements” of the last century, which have robbed flour of its nutrients and jampacked so many processed foods with sugar, salt and fat.

These “new” and “improved” fake foods and soft drinks have resulted in an epidemic of obesity and diabetes, particularly among the young and within minority communities.

woes on “Modern Family” (9 p.m., ABC, r, TV-PG).

• A missing teen may pose a risk on “Chicago P.D.” (10 p.m., NBC, r, TV-14).

“The Man With the Golden Arm” (9:15 p.m., TCM), co-starring Eleanor Parker, Kim Novak, Arnold Stang and Darren McGavin.

CULT CHOICE

SERIES NOTES

Star Frank Sinatra and producer/director Otto Preminger challenged the prevailing Hollywood “code” by depicting a drug addict in the 1955 drama

Frankie finds Axl’s friend attractive on “The Middle” (8 p.m., ABC, r, TV-PG) * Selena Gomez performs at the “iHeartRadio Jingle Ball” (8 p.m., CW, r, TV-14) *

Daniel Radcliffe, Betsy Brandt and Saint Motel appear on “Conan” (11 p.m., TBS, r) * Michelle Dockery, Hugh Bonneville, Allen Leech, Adam McKay and Kurt Vile are booked on “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” (11:35 p.m., CBS, r) * Jimmy Fallon welcomes Will Ferrell, Alicia Vikander and Twenty One Pilots on “The Tonight Show” (11:35 p.m., NBC, r) * Ryan Seacrest, Giada De Laurentiis and Gavin James appear on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” (11:35 p.m., ABC, r) * Matthew Morrison, Uzo Aduba and A Great Big World visit “Late Night With Seth Meyers” (12:35 a.m., NBC, r) * Melissa Benoist, Olivia Wilde and Saoirse Ronan appear on “The Late Late Show With James Corden” (12:35 a.m., CBS, r).

Copyright 2015, United Feature Syndicate

2015-16

DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF CHARLES R. “PAP” PROPST

TONIGHT’S OTHER HIGHLIGHTS • Celebrities play pranks on “I Get That a Lot” (8 p.m., CBS).

• Cookie gets Pitbull’s attention on “Empire” (8 p.m., Fox, r, TV-14).

• On two helpings of “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (NBC, r, TV-14): a body washes ashore (8 p.m.), a serial killer offers a tip (9 p.m.).

• A bounty hunter pitches in on “Rosewood” (9 p.m., Fox, r, TV-14).

• Cam and Mitch face money

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Tuscan Pasta

Swap salt for spice in 2016 FAMILY FEATURES

M

aking a New Year’s resolution? Don’t forget salt. Most Americans consume about 1,000 milligrams of sodium over the amount recommended by nutrition and health experts. New

research shows cooking with spices and herbs could help you ditch the salt shaker and meet sodium recommendations.

Keeping a resolution to cut salt from your diet is easy. Use simple spice swaps to create tasty, low-sodium meals. From seasoning eggs with basil instead of salt to adding spices and herbs to no-salt tomato sauce, the McCormick Kitchens offer these easy tips and recipes to make low-sodium meals full of flavor: • Beat 1/8 teaspoon herb instead of salt into 2 eggs before scrambling.

• Add oregano, garlic powder and red pepper to no-salt added tomato sauce for a tasty, low-sodium pasta dinner.

• Try making Citrus Herbed Chicken with Asparagus, Fiesta Citrus Salmon or Tuscan Pasta. These dishes don’t call for any salt. Instead, they swap in basil, garlic powder and oregano.

For more low-sodium tips and recipes — such as shaved vegetable salad with Italian herb vinaigrette — visit McCormick.com/recipes/low-sodium to keep your New Year’s resolutions on track. To see the full Anderson study, which examined the effects of a behavioral intervention that emphasized spice and herbs, and how it impacts sodium intake, visit McCormickScienceInstitute.com.

CITRUS HERBED CHICKEN WITH ASPARAGUS Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Serves: 4 1/4 cup flour 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Garlic Powder 1/4 teaspoon McCormick Black Pepper, coarse ground 1 pound thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 tablespoon oil 1 1/2 cups chicken stock 1 teaspoon McCormick Basil Leaves 1 teaspoon McCormick Oregano Leaves 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 2 tablespoons lemon juice In shallow dish, mix flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder and pepper. Reserve 2 tablespoons. Moisten chicken lightly with water. Coat evenly with remaining flour mixture.

In large nonstick skillet, heat oil on medium heat. Add 1/2 of the chicken pieces; cook 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Repeat with remaining chicken, adding additional oil, if necessary. Remove chicken from skillet; keep warm.

In medium bowl, mix stock, basil, oregano and reserved flour mixture until well blended. Add to skillet along with asparagus. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 3-5 minutes, or until sauce is slightly thickened, stirring frequently. Stir in lemon juice.

Return chicken to skillet; cook 2 minutes, or until heated through.

TUSCAN PASTA

FIESTA CITRUS SALMON Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Serves: 4 1/4 cup orange juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons McCormick Perfect Pinch Salt-Free Fiesta Citrus Seasoning, divided 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar, divided 1 pound salmon fillets In small bowl, mix juice, oil and 1 tablespoon each seasoning and sugar. Place salmon in large re-sealable plastic bag or glass dish. Add marinade; turn to coat well. Refrigerate 30 minutes, or longer for extra flavor.

In another small bowl, mix remaining seasoning and sugar. Remove salmon from marinade. Discard any remaining marinade. Rub salmon evenly with seasoning mixture.

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Serves: 6 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained 1 can (8 ounces) no-salt added tomato sauce 1 tablespoon sugar (optional) 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar, divided 2 teaspoons McCormick Garlic Powder 2 teaspoons McCormick Perfect Pinch Italian Seasoning 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Black Pepper, ground 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 pound zucchini, sliced 1 package (8 ounces) sliced mushrooms 1 small onion, chopped 6 ounces pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine In medium saucepan, mix tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar and seasonings. Bring to boil on medium heat. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 20 minutes.

In large skillet, heat oil on medium-high heat. Add zucchini, mushrooms and onion; cook and stir 4 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp. Stir tomato sauce into vegetables.

Meanwhile, cook pasta as directed on package. Drain well. Place pasta in serving bowl. Add vegetable mixture; toss well.

Source: McCormick Spice