December 9, 2014

Per capita income numbers please development board

BY JIM HILLEY jim@theitem.com

75 CENTS

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

SERVING SOUTH CAROLINA SINCE OCTOBER 15, 1894 2 SECTIONS, 20 PAGES | VOL. 120, NO. 46

Sumter County has seen some good economic numbers released in recent days.

The Sumter County Economic Development Board recently released information showing the Sumter Metropolitan Statistical Area increased in per capita in-

come from $25,042 in 2006 to $33,301 in 2013, an average increase of 4.7 percent per year.

“It’s all good information,” said Jay Schwedler, president and CEO of Sumter Economic Development.

“We have been tracking it since 2006 as it relates to the board’s efforts. Our primary mission is to raise per capita income for all people in Sumter County. This is our

primary measure of whether we are succeeding in the goals and objectives that we set forth.”

He said it was gratifying to see such tangible and measurable results.

He said the growth of per capita income in the Sumter MSA has remained steady during the

SEE INCOME, PAGE A9

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RICK CARPENTER / THE SUMTER ITEM

Jaden Gibson, 5, points to an upcoming attraction in Sunday’s downtown Christmas parade while Sydney Gibson, 6, gets a smile from it. Both were donning antlers.

POINSETTIA FESTIVAL SCHEDULE Sumter’s Poinsettia Festival is well underway, starting with the Dec. 1 opening ceremonies for the spectacular Fantasy of Lights at Swan Lake-Iris Gardens. Trees are lit up all over town, and most people are at least thinking about decorating, perhaps inspired by the garden clubs’ Holiday House Tour or the many trees on the Tuomey Regional Healthcare System campus. Santa is ensconced in his village at Swan Lake on Friday and Saturday evenings, the Festival of Choirs welcomed Advent, and the Sumter Christmas tree is glowing each night in front of the courthouse. Many more events have taken place, but there are still plenty to look forward to. Here are just a few: Today through Dec. 31: • Festival of Trees, Circle of Lights at Tuomey, free daily • Fantasy of Lights, Swan Lake, dusk to 9 p.m., free daily • Sumter Bottom Brass Christmas Concert, National Health Care, 6:30 p.m., free.

Thursday, Dec. 11 through Sunday, Dec. 14: • “Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” Dec. 11-14, 18-21, Sumter Little Theatre, (803) 775-2150 Friday, Dec. 12, Saturday, Dec. 13: • Santa’s Village, Santa’s Express, free, Swan Lake Heath Pavilion, from 6 to 8 p.m • Living Christmas Story, Trinity Methodist Church, also Sunday, from 6 to 9 p.m., free, (803) 773-9393 • Jingle with the Arts, Patriot Hall, 7:30 p.m. Friday; 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, (803) 773-2847 Saturday, Dec. 13: • Carolina Backcountry Christmas, 2 to 4 p.m., Sumter County Museum, free, (803) 775-0908 Sunday, Dec. 14: • Sumter Community Concert Band Christmas concert, 4 p.m., Opera House, free • Sumter Civic Chorale Christmas concert, 3 p.m., Patriot Hall, free

MATT BRUCE / THE SUMTER ITEM

The Grinch high-fives an onlooker at the corner of Main Street and Hampton Avenue.

MATT BRUCE / THE SUMTER ITEM

.com

A costumed marcher, above, participates in the Sumter Tribe of Cheraw Indians’ presentation.

MATT BRUCE / THE SUMTER ITEM

The leader of the Hawks step team, left, dances during a performance at the intersection of Main and Liberty streets.

In 2nd week, Fireside Fund rakes in nearly $5,000 JADE REYNOLDS jade@theitem.com In its second week out of the gate, Fireside Fund raised nearly $5,000.

That will help a lot of people buy kerosene to heat their homes.

“I have had some propane and wood as well, but the biggest is kerosene,” said Christy Lamb, social worker with The Salvation Army. “You get a lot of older people who heat with kerosene. We give most of them $75 vouchers.”

She estimated the partner-

Jewelry

ship between her organization and The Sumter Item helped at least a dozen families with

Wholesale

this particular heating source last week.

Started in 1969, the program has the publication collect the money and give it to The Salvation Army. In turn, the nonprofit distributes the donations in the form of vouchers to people who need help heat-

ing their homes.

The 2014-15 fund has been named in honor and memory of the late Maj. Gen. Tom Olsen, a man known not only for serving his country, but also for giving his time to the

SEE FIRESIDE FUND, PAGE A9

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

THE SUMTER ITEM

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

LOCAL BRIEFS FROM STAFF REPORTS

Turbeville council meets tonight Turbeville Town Council will meet at 6:30 p.m. today at Turbeville City Hall, 1400 Main St. After hosting public participation, council will get an update on the USDA Wastewater Treatment Plant, receive an audit report from Timothy Cornelison and hear committee reports, as well as an administrator’s report from City Manager Rodney Johnson.

Council will hold an executive session on a personnel matter.

For more information, call (843) 659-2781.

City will not pick up trash on Christmas Day In observance of Christmas, the City of Sumter will not collect household garbage or recyclables on Christmas Day. Instead, if you have a Thursday collection day, your garbage and recyclables will be collected on Saturday, Dec. 27.

Residents are asked to have their roll cart and recycling bin at the curb by 7 a.m. for collection.

The City of Sumter will collect household garbage and recyclables on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2015.

Direct any questions or concerns to City of Sumter Public Services Department at (803) 436-2558.

Polumbo: ‘It costs bucks to beat Buck Rogers’

BY RICK CARPENTER rick@theitem.com The commander of the Ninth Air Force told the Sumter Rotary Club on Monday that the U.S. has superior air craft over any country in the world, but that superiority depends on congressional funding and future presidential support.

Maj. Gen. H.D. “Jake” Polumbo Jr. said continued congressional sequestration has put a stranglehold on the Air Force’s ability to accurately budget its resources. And, he said, without investing more money to continue to develop new equipment might allow other countries to catch up with U.S. technology.

“It costs bucks to beat Buck Rogers,” he said. Polumbo encouraged Rotarians

RICK CARPENTER / THE SUMTER ITEM

Maj. Gen. H.D. “Jake” Polumbo, commander of Ninth Air Force, speaks to Sumter Rotary Club on Monday. to voice their concern to the South Carolina congressional delegation.

When Congress and the president failed to reach a

budget reduction solution in 2011, Congress agreed to implement automatic budget cuts and an increase in taxes that together would lower the deficit by $4 billion. Federal officials refer to that agreement as a sequester.

The automatic budget cuts under the sequester hits the defense department budget the hardest at a time when the country has been asked to defend against the ISIS terrorist group working in Syria and Iraq.

Polumbo said the sequester forces the Air Force to prioritize how to utilize its personnel. With a new stateof-the-art F-35 fighter becoming a part of the military’s arsenal, the Air Force will have to make a tough choice on whether to mothball its current A-10 aircraft so it can train its existing pi-

lots to fly F-35s.

He said the A-10 provides important close air support for military operations.

He said Shaw Air Force Base remains a strong candidate to host the F-35 but probably not until early or mid-2020s.

Polumbo spoke to the superior air power another Air Force fighter has as well, the F-22 Raptor stealth tactical fighter which is being used for various missions in the Air Force.

How much superior power does the F-22 have over the F-16? Polumbo said he recently trained in an F-16 combat simulation against an F-22 and got shot down without even seeing the F-22.

He joked that in training exercises, “they always like to shoot the general down first.”

Candlelight vigil commemorates World AIDS Day Members of the community, as well as members of Wateree AIDS Taskforce, hold a candlelight vigil at the Sumter County Courthouse on Thursday evening. The vigil was held to commerate World AIDS Day, which began in 1988.

Sumter Bottom Brass will present concert The Sumter Bottom Brass will present a Christmas concert at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at National Healthcare of Sumter, 1018 N. Guignard Drive.

Emmett Anglin said, “The ensemble is a brass quintet made up of tuba, three trombones and a flugelhorn or alto trumpet.”

He said the group adopted its name “because most of the group is made up of low-brass instruments.”

The quintet comprises Anglin on flugelhorn and alto trumpet; Jessica Bettinger, Joe Bettinger and Ray Graham on trombones and John Wate on tuba.

“This is not the traditional instrumentation of the brass quintet, which is usually made up of two trumpets, F horn, trombone and tuba,” Anglin said, adding “The music the group plays is not available commercially.” Instead he has arranged the music for the 45-minute concert specifically for the Sumter Bottom Brass.

It is all Christmas music.

All the members except Anglin are also members of the Sumter Community Concert Band.

The public is invited to the concert. Admission is free.

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

PHOTO PROVIDED

Sumter chamber hosts legislative breakfast Wednesday

BY JIM HILLEY jim@theitem.com The majority of the area’s state legislative members will be in attendance at the Sumter Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Breakfast presented by Central Carolina Technical College at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Central Carolina Health Science Building, in the Iris Room.

The breakfast is free to chamber members and $5 for non members.

Chamber President Grier Blackwelder said five of Sumter County’s seven elected members of the General Assembly are expected to attend, includ-

ing Sens. Kevin Johnson and J. Thomas McElveen III, as well as Reps. Murrell Smith, Robert Ridgeway and Grady Brown.

“I think the other two who will not be there will be out of the county,” Blackwelder said.

He said the members of the legislative delegation will give their two- or three-minute opening comments and then we will take questions from the audience.

Topics generally cover education and the budget, he said.

“I imagine there will be a good bit of focus on infrastructure, since it has been in the news quite a bit,” Black-

welder said. “What would be their wishes to help solve the needs of our roads in South Carolina, particularly as it pertains to the Sumter region.”

Ethics reform is another topic Blackwelder said may be brought up.

“We have a member of our delegation who is vice-chairing the House Ethics Committee in David Weeks,” he said.

Blackwelder said the breakfast is coordinated by the chamber’s governmental affairs committee.

The chamber will continue to accept reservations through noon today.

For information, call the chamber at (803) 775-1211.

HOW TO REACH US IS YOUR PAPER MISSING? ANNOUNCEMENT ARE YOU GOING ON Birth, Engagement, Wedding, VACATION? Anniversary, Obituary 20 N. Magnolia St., Sumter, S.C. 29150 (803) 774-1200 Jack Osteen Editor and Publisher jack@theitem.com (803) 774-1238 Rick Carpenter Managing Editor rick@theitem.com (803) 774-1201 Waverly Williams Sales Manager waverly@theitem.com (803) 774-1237

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LOCAL

THE SUMTER ITEM

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

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‘Christmas Pageant’ brings back ‘worst kids in town’

BY IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com “The Herdmans are back!” is a lament by the characters in “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” but it’s a joyous statement by theater-goers who fill Sumter Little Theatre every time it’s presented to herald the yuletide season in Sumter. Barbara Robinson’s play both amuses and inspires its audiences and its young cast with the Christmas story itself, as well as with the story of six young siblings who’ve never before heard it.

The play opens Thursday at the theater.

It’s the first time directing the show for Eric Bultman, executive director of SLT. “I’ve seen Katie’s (Damron, SLT director emerita) production and Heather Turner’s productions,” he said. “I don’t know if it’s the play or the kids, but I am having a great time.”

As predicted by critics when the play was first produced in 1982, Robinson’s play based on her 1971 book has become a classic.

“Best Christmas Pageant” remains relevant, Bultman said.

“The story is timeless and so is the humor,” he said. “I was worried that the jokes might be dated, but the kids in the cast laugh at them and so do the adults.”

Another reason for the show’s continuing popularity, Bultman said, is that “Most Christians have either seen or participated in a Christmas pageant, from big productions with live camels and other livestock, lavish costumes and sets and 100-member choirs, to modest celebrations where the baby Jesus is a doll, Joseph’s beard is held on with Scotch tape and the Wise Men and Shepherds wear their fathers’ bathrobes.”

The pageant in SLT’s play is definitely closer to the latter, and that makes it all the more moving and special.

The Herdmans are the least likely group to be interested in being in the play that depicts the Nativity. They are a group of siblings who lie, cheat, steal, cuss, smoke cigars, look at dirty books and generally bully the other children in their school. As Beth Bradley (Kailey Davis), the play’s narrator, says, “The Herdmans are absolutely the worst kids in the history of the world.”

They don’t go to church and

MATT WALSH / THE SUMTER ITEM

Imogene and Ralph Herdman fight over the Baby Jesus doll as Mrs. Bradley, the Christmas pageant director, tries to calm them down. The action takes place in the church pageant within Sumter Little Theatre’s “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” gene Herdman, who is regarded as the worst of the siblings.

“Imogene is tough,” Jayde WHAT: “The Best Christmas said. “She smokes a cigar in Pageant Ever” the church bathroom in her WHEN: Dec. 11-14, 18-21 at 7:30 costume” as the Virgin Mary. p.m. Thursdays through “She’s loud and bossy.”

Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays Ralph, the oldest of the WHERE: Sumter Little Theatre, Herdmans, is played by James 14 Mood Ave. Halimas, who has “a big fight scene, cusses and smokes. I’m COST: $10 adults/$8 under 12 constantly beating the crap PHONE: (803) 775-2150 out of people.”

Leroy (Steven Fines) said he “steals people’s lunches. We’re just ‘bad kids.’” have never heard the Christ“The show has a very good mas story, and their involvestory,” Jayde said. “It’s very ment in the pageant happens funny.” by accident, because Beth’s Because the Herdmans want brother Charlie, played by Adam Reisenauer, mentions to to be in the play, the parts are them that the kids get desserts not assigned as usual, but commandeered by the sibling in Sunday school, so they come for the free food and are group. Imogen threatens the previous year’s Mary, and her present when Grace Bradley sister and brothers get their (Charlotte Gallagher) takes parts in much the same way. over the direction of the pagThe other Herdman siblings eant.

“I get in a lot of trouble (for are Barrett Conner as Ollie, Owen Fields as Claude and that) at first,” Adam said.

Ellie Morse as Gladys, who Gallagher said the play portrays the Angel of the Lord “transforms the Herdmans as a superhero. and the (church goers), too.”

Much hilarity results durJayde Torres, 11, plays Imo-

WANT TO GO?

Waters; as shepherds: Desmond Mitchell, Jaxon Fields, Destynd Loring, Dominic Marro, Carlos Waters Jr., Julian Wright, Rayvon Harris; Angel Choir: Virginia L. Dene, Jennifer Barnett, Kiersten Cain, Lauren Carneal, Maggie Morse, Carolina Getz, Abigail Prichard, Kenya Flippin, Kylie Timmons, Candace S. Mitchell, Ashari Harper and Caroline Belangia.

The stage manager is Delaney Johnson, costume mistress is Sylvia Pickell, sound technician is Michael Brown and the crew are Tristan Pack, Skylar Head, Lauren Cain, Sean McCalister and Emily Walker.

ing rehearsals for the pageant within the play. Barrett said he thinks “everyone will like it because it’s funny, especially the young kids.”

Bultman said many adults who’ve been in similar pageants or watched their own young family members in them will particularly enjoy the show.

“Watching children, in this case the Herdman kids, experience the Christmas story for the first time as they perform it for an audience makes ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” a favorite,” he said.

Also in the cast are Kyle Austin, Sumer Jarvis, LaShonda McElveen, Gwyn

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LOCAL / STATE

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

2 separate Clarendon shootings leave 2 dead, 3 others wounded

Arrests made in both, more expected in 1

BY JIM HILLEY jim@theitem.com

Two young men have lost their lives in separate shooting incidents in Clarendon BAUGHMAN County since Friday afternoon.

Stephen Hunter Brown, 19, of 1362 Savage Road, was reportedly shot to death at a home on Boyd Road between Manning and Paxville Friday afternoon. Isaac Baughman, 26, of 1187 Raiders Road, has been charged with murder in connection with that incident.

Deputies continue to investigate another shooting that left

one man dead and three others wounded early Sunday morning at a club in Silver. Ty Bennett, 23, of Davis Station, has been arrested in connection with the shooting. Authorities think there were multiple shooters and expect more arrests to be made.

Coroner Hayes Samuel said Shawn Carter, 21, died of a single gunshot wound to the head and neck at the Crystal Lounge. He was reportedly one of four people struck by bullets during a shooting incident at around 3:30 a.m. Sunday morning.

Deputies responded to the night spot to clear the parking area and were told that several shots were fired during a fight that broke out in the parking lot as they were en route. Early dispatches indicated one person was hit, and

multiple suspects reportedly left the scene in a white vehicle.

When deputies arrived, they learned that a family member had transported Carter to the hospital. Officers later learned that four people suffered gunshot wounds during the incident, and all of them were admitted to the emergency room at Clarendon Memorial Hospital.

Reported as injured by gunshots in the incident were Erica Taylor, Takelia Garris and Quincy Jackson.

Investigators are asking for the public’s help in developing suspects. Those with information about the crime are urged to contact Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office at (803)435-4414 or call CrimeStoppers at 1-888-Crime-SC to make a tip anonymously.

Drive-by victim remains critical Sheriff ’s office speaking to multiple persons of interest

BY JADE REYNOLDS jade@theitem.com A shooting victim remains hospitalized in critical condition Tuesday after a weekend drive by.

While no arrests have been made at this time, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office is seeking and speaking to multiple persons of interest, said Braden Bunch, public information officer.

The owner of the vehicle investigators say was used in

the incident has been identified, and though not a suspect, is being questioned as a person of interest.

“The owner may have integral information to the actual shooting,” Bunch said.

Deputies responded to Tuomey Regional Medical Center for two gunshot victims shortly after midnight Saturday. The incident reportedly took place in the 200 block of East Red Bay Road.

The preliminary investigation indicates Travis Miller, 25, and O’Brian Spann, 29, were shot while standing in a parking lot outside a convenience store. Miller sustained multiple gunshot wounds, while Spann re-

ceived a single one to his ankle, Bunch stated in a previous release.

Witnesses say more than one person fired shots from inside a black Cadillac. A vehicle matching the description was later found abandoned early Saturday morning by officers with Sumter Police Department outside a business in the 200 block of East Newberry Street. It has been taken into evidence and processed.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to call either Sumter County Sheriff’s Office at (803) 436-2775 or Crimestoppers at (803) 436-2718.

THE SUMTER ITEM

Historic marker erected

PHOTO PROVIDED

This historic marker, erected Nov. 9, can be found on U.S. 521 South and directs the public to the site of what was formerly the Britton Community and Britton Siding. The sign was the inspiration of Dr. J.J. Britton, MD, who wanted to place a marker commemorating the homesite of his ancestors. From left are representatives of three generations of the Britton family: John James Britton, MD; John James Britton Jr., MD; and John James Britton III.

Santee Cooper approves $5M in loans for industrial projects MONCKS CORNER (AP) — South Carolina’s stateowned electric and water utility Santee Cooper has approved almost $5 million in loans for industrial projects in Orangeburg and Anderson counties.

The Santee Cooper board on Monday approved a $4 million loan to Orangeburg County to build an industrial building to house a plant for Sigmatex which makes

carbon fiber textiles. The company announced in October that it is investing $12 million and will create 50 jobs at the plant at the Matthews Industrial Park.

The $922,000 loan to Anderson County is for an industrial building in the Alliance Industrial Park. Santee Cooper initially approved an almost $2 million loan for that project in August of 2013.

PROTECT THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS IN LIFE.

POLICE BLOTTER CHARGES Joshua Arbeiter, 26, of 3325 Lee Altman Drive, Dalzell, was arrested Wednesday and charged with custodial interference after reports he tried to take his 2-year-old son to South Dakota without telling the child’s legal custodian sometime between Tuesday and Wednesday. Authorities made contact with the suspect while he was in Knoxville, Tennessee.

STOLEN PROPERTY A Pardner pump 12-gauge shotgun, .40-caliber Springfield XD and Spikes Tactical AR rifle were reportedly stolen from a Dalzell home in the 3300 block of Denton Drive about 11 p.m. Thursday.

A 42-inch TV, .32-caliber revolver, assorted costume jewelry and Xanax medication valued in total at $1,300 were reportedly stolen from a Wedgefield home in the 1300 block of Hidden Oaks Drive about 2:15 p.m.

Thursday.

A queen-size Tempur-Pedic mattress and box spring valued at $499 as well as a wooden chest of drawers valued at $60 were reportedly stolen from a rental storage facility unit in the first block of Commerce Street between 5 p.m. Wednesday and 1 p.m. Thursday.

A Ruger 9 mm semi-automatic weapon valued at $650 was reportedly stolen from a Ford Expedition parked in the first block of Shirer Street between Nov. 27 and 11:20 a.m. Monday.

DAMAGED PROPERTY An unidentified person reportedly drove an unknown vehicle into a brick fence in the first block of Blanding Street between 11:30 p.m. Tuesday and 10:20 a.m. Wednesday causing $2,000 in estimated damage to the fence.

A glass window at the main entrance of an under-construction restaurant in the 1000 block of Broad Street was shattered between 6 p.m. Wednesday and 7:45 a.m.

Thursday, causing $1,000 in estimated damage.

A front-end loader valued at $100,000 was reportedly severely damaged during a fire at a storage facility in the 600 block of East Fulton Street about 11:40 a.m.

Wednesday.

RECOVERED PROPERTY Police reportedly discovered 53 grams of suspected marijuana on top of a digital scale next to a building in the 400 block of Broad Street while responding to a burglary alarm call about 9:30 p.m. Thursday.

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LOCAL

THE SUMTER ITEM

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

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A5

PHOTOS CHRIS MOORE / SPECIAL TO THE SUMTER ITEM

The Sumter High School Chamber Choir Ensemble performs during the 14th annual Dr. Perry Davis Memorial Circle of Lights ceremony and the kickoff for the 13th annual Festival of Trees ceremony on Thursday at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Festival of

Trees

Sumterites, above, check out the colorfully decorated Christmas trees in the lobby of Tuomey Regional Medical Center on Thursday evening after the lighting ceremony for the 13th annual Festival of Trees.

The Festival of Trees at Tuomey Regional Medical Center boasts more than 50 Christmas trees in the main lobby, on all floors, in the cafeteria, in Bell Women and Infants’ Pavilion, in Outpatient Surgery and in Mammography. These trees were sponsored and decorated by various businesses and individuals in our community, and each has a very unique theme.

All proceeds from tree sponsorships and Circle of Lights benefit Tuomey Hospice Services. Since 2002, more than $680,000 has been raised for Tuomey Hospice, which enables patients to spend their final days being cared for by Hospice nurses and surrounded by their loved ones.

For more information on Festival of Trees or Circle of Lights, call (803) 774-9014.

During the 14th annual Dr. Perry Davis Memorial Circle of Lights ceremony, Julie Ardis and Carolyn Criss speak on behalf of John F. Criss, who was cared for by Tuomey Hospice.

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A6

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WORLD

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

THE SUMTER ITEM

South African aid group: U.S., NATO combat command U.S. ally was kept informed in Afghanistan ends after 13 years of release negotiations

BY LYNNE O’DONNELL The Associated Press

BY CHRISTOPHER TORCHIA The Associated Press JOHANNESBURG — The government in Yemen, a U.S. ally, was kept informed about a South African aid group’s efforts to negotiate the release of a South African hostage before he died in a U.S. raid on al-Qaida militants, the head of the aid group said Monday.

The comments by Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, came amid questions about what officials of various governments knew, if anything, about efforts to release South African Pierre Korkie, who was said to be close to being freed even as another hostage with him, American Luke Somers, appeared to face imminent execution.

The two men were killed Saturday during a U.S.-led rescue attempt. The U.S. ambassador in South Africa said the United States did not know that Sooliman and his organization believed the South African hostage was to be released Sunday under a deal struck with al-Qaida.

“At all times, the Yemeni government was informed about our actions on the ground,” Sooliman said in an interview with The Associated Press. “We didn’t do anything in isolation from them.”

Sooliman said he had considered the possibility that Yemeni authorities were talking to American allies about the case, but said he did not want to “delve” into speculation and took the Americans at their word.

“If they say they didn’t know, they didn’t know,” he said.

Yemeni authorities knew about negotiations to secure Korkie’s release and an “exchange of information” about the hostage took place two weeks ago in the presence of American officials in Sanaa, Yemen’s capital, a senior Yemeni intelligence official. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media.

The Americans, however, did not “officially” ask for information about the South African hostage, the official said.

Korkie, a teacher, was abducted with his wife Yolande in the Yemeni city of Taiz in May 2013. She was released in Janu-

ary after negotiations by Gift of the Givers, which has an office in Yemen. The group has provided disaster relief in Somalia and other countries.

Pierre Korkie’s captors lowered a ransom demand of $3 million to $700,000 after realizing Korkie’s family and friends could not raise the money, according to Sooliman. Eventually, a deal was reached under which tribal leaders would get a $200,000 “facilitation fee” in exchange for Korkie’s release, he said.

U.S. Ambassador Patrick Gaspard said in South Africa that American officials were “unaware of ongoing negotiations that had any resolution” between the militants and Gift of the Givers, and that it was “not altogether clear” to him that the South African government was aware of the talks.

“We were just completely unaware of those developments and had to act hastily,” the ambassador said in a telephone interview with the AP. He said it appeared that the negotiations for Korkie’s release were “pretty far down the track.”

The U.S. decided to carry out the raid because the militants had threatened to kill Somers, Gaspard said.

“At no time was it apparent that Pierre Korkie was being held in the same space as the American photojournalist Luke Somers,” the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria said in a statement.

Washington views al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula as the most dangerous branch of the terror group as it has been linked to a number of foiled or botched attacks on the U.S. homeland. The U.S. has conducted drone strikes in Yemen targeting suspected militants and offers aid to the country’s military. Civilian casualties in the strikes have angered many.

Some tribal figures involved in negotiations for Korkie’s release were recently killed in a drone strike, Sooliman said.

This year, Gift of the Givers received reports from people claiming to have seen Korkie in different locations and with different hostages, and also alone with his captors. Sooliman said it was possible that Korkie and Somers, the American hostage, were put together by their captors “at the last minute” before the raid.

KABUL, Afghanistan — The U.S. and NATO closed their combat command in Afghanistan on Monday, more than 13 years after invading the country in the wake of the Sept. 11 terror attacks to target al-Qaida and Osama bin Laden.

Though quickly routing the Taliban-led government that sheltered the militants, the U.S.-led coalition soon found itself spending billions of dollars rebuilding a country devastated by almost 30 years of war while an insurgency grew as the invasion and occupation of Iraq quickly took America’s attention.

As NATO’s International Security Assistance Force’s Joint Command, which was in charge of combat operations, lowered its flag Monday and formally ended its deployment, resurgent Taliban militants launched yet another bloody attack in the country. And with President Obama allowing American troops to go after both al-Qaida and Taliban militants in the country into the next year, the fighting likely won’t be over anytime soon.

“I don’t think the war will slow or stop during the winter, as attacks on cities are not contingent on the weather,” Afghan political analyst Wahid Muzhdah said. “I believe attacks in the cities will increase — they attract media attention.”

Monday’s ceremony saw the NATO flag of the command folded and put away amid the foreign troop withdrawal. From Jan. 1, 2015, the coalition will maintain a force of 13,000 troops in Afghanistan, down from a peak around 140,000 in 2011. As of Dec. 1, there were some 13, 300 NATO troops in the country.

U.S. Gen. John F. Campbell, commander of NATO and U.S. forces, said foreign troops now will focus on training and supporting local Afghan forces, which have led the fight against the Taliban insurgents since mid-2013.

“The Afghan security forces are capable,” Campbell told The Associated Press. “They have to make some changes in the

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

International Security Assistance Force Joint Command, Lt. Gen. Joseph Anderson, right, and commander of International Security Assistance Force, Gen. John F. Campbell, center, salute during a flag-lowering ceremony in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Monday. The U.S. and NATO ceremonially ended their combat mission in Afghanistan. leadership which they’re doing, and they have to hold people accountable.”

But as local troops stepped up, they now face recordhigh casualty figures that have risen 6.5 percent this year, to 4,634 killed in action, compared to 4,350 in 2013. By comparison, some 3,500 foreign forces, including at least 2,210 American soldiers, have been killed since the war began in 2001.

Obama recently allowed American forces to launch operations against both Taliban and al-Qaida militants, broadening the mission of the U.S. forces that will remain in the country. They also will be permitted to provide combat and air support as necessary, while Afghan

President Ashraf Ghani also considers resuming controversial night raids that could see Americans take part.

Up to 10,800 U.S. troops will remain in Afghanistan for the first three months of next year, 1,000 more than previously planned, said a NATO official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss troop deployments.

As a result, there will be little, if any, net drop in U.S. troop numbers between now and Dec. 31, when the international combat mission formally ends.

By the end of 2015, however, American officials say the U.S. troop total will shrink to 5,500, and to near zero by the end of 2016.

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

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A7

Syrian Jewish bibles could spark ownership dispute

BY DANIEL ESTRIN The Associated Press JERUSALEM — Two decades after Israeli spies helped Syrian Jews whisk ancient Hebrew bibles from Damascus to Jerusalem, Israel’s national library asked an Israeli court on Monday to grant it custodianship over the manuscripts — a move that could spark an ownership battle over some of the Syrian Jewish community’s most important treasures.

Known as the Crowns of Damascus, the nine leather-bound parchment books — some featuring microscopic calligraphy and gold-leaf illumination — were written mostly in Spain and Italy between 700 and 1,000 years ago. For hundreds of years, they were guarded inside synagogues in the Syrian capital, presented only on special occasions.

In the early 1990s, Syria lifted travel restrictions on Jews and many emigrated, but they were not permitted to take their sacred manuscripts.

So, in a covert operation by Israel’s Mossad spy agency, eight ancient bibles were spirited to Israel between 1993 and 1995. The ninth was smuggled out of Syria in 1993 with the help of a Canadian Jewish activist.

Once in Israel, the manuscripts were entrusted to the national library for restoration and storage. Their existence there was kept secret for a decade, presumably so as not to draw the ire of Syria, Israel’s longtime foe. The library already had two other Damascus bibles in its collection, purchased in the 1960s and ’70s in

lishment of a Syrian Jewish heritage center in Israel.”

But Hamra has not yet built the center, and the library denies it ever promised him the manuscripts. It asked Hamra to be a member of the proposed steering committee, but he declined.

“It is not my property, but it is the property of my community,” Hamra said.

The library, which houses many other ancient Jewish manuscripts, says it has the expertise to preserve the brittle bibles.

The proposed trust would enTHE ASSOCIATED PRESS shrine the manuscripts as A library official shows a Jewish manuscript smuggled into Israel from “owned by the Jewish people,” said Haggai Ben Shammai, the Damascus in a Mossad spy operation in the early 1990s. The manulibrary’s academic director. “It script is one of the earliest existing complete manuscripts of the Hecannot be transferred to anybrew bible. body.”

Shammai said he is not worcus Jewish immigrants in Israprivate sales. ried about possible Syrian deDetails of the Mossad opera- el, would oversee them. The Damascus Jewry Organization mands to return the bibles to tion remain classified, but the in Israel, the main group repre- Damascus since they were man who helped organize it senting Damascus immigrants, never Syrian government propwas Rabbi Avraham Hamra, erty but belonged to Syria’s supports the library’s initiathe then-leader of the DamasJewish community. The wartive. cus Jewish community who engulfed country is not a safe But Hamra, who is not connow lives in Israel. Shabtai nected to that organization, op- place for the manuscripts anyShavit, the Mossad director at way, he added. poses the library’s proposal the time, confirmed Hamra’s There was no immediate involvement without giving de- and says he may challenge it in court. He argues the bibles are comment Monday from authortails.

Syrian Jewish cultural proper- ities in Damascus, where few The existence of the bibles was revealed in 2000 when they ty and that the library had promised to transfer them to a were exhibited at the Israeli Syrian Jewish heritage center president’s residence. And on in Israel he plans to build.

Monday, the National Library That promise, Hamra says, of Israel went to court to formally ask the Justice Ministry appears in a catalogue from the 2000 exhibition co-sponsored by to establish a kind of public the library. charitable trust for the nine The catalogue calls the manCrowns of Damascus. uscripts the “religious and According to the proposal, the manuscripts would remain spiritual treasure of the Syrian Jewish community” and says in the library’s climate-conthe Israeli library would safetrolled coffers and a steering guard them “until the estabcommittee, including Damas-

Jews remain today.

The battle over the bibles mirrors a famous tug-of-war over another important Jewish manuscript from Syria: the 10th-century Aleppo Codex, considered the most ancient authoritative copy of the Hebrew Bible.

Like the Crowns of Damascus, the Aleppo Codex was safeguarded in a Syrian synagogue for ages. A Syrian Jew fleeing persecution smuggled it out of Aleppo to Israel, where it landed in the hands of the Israeli president in the 1950s.

Aleppo Jews in Israel took the Israeli government to court, saying the bible was meant to reach their community. A trial lasted years and ended in compromise — a trusteeship led by an Israeli chief rabbi was established to oversee the Aleppo Codex.

Meir Heller, a lawyer for the national library, said the library is prepared to advertise its proposal for the Crowns of Damascus in newspapers in Syria, Europe and the U.S. to allow objectors to challenge the move in court.

“Any interested party can come forward, and the court will decide,” he said.

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A8

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NATION

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

THE SUMTER ITEM

Supreme Court rejects BP appeal of spill settlement

BY JANET MCCONNAUGHEY The Associated Press NEW ORLEANS — The Supreme Court is leaving in place BP’s multibillion-dollar settlement with lawyers for businesses and residents over the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

The justices did not comment Monday in rejecting the London-based oil giant’s arguments that lower courts misinterpreted settlement terms and put BP on the hook to pay inflated and bogus claims by businesses.

The court’s decision makes the economic and property damage settlement final, starting a six-month deadline for filing claims, said plaintiffs’ attorney Joe Rice of Mount Pleasant.

BP PLC wanted the court to consider whether people and

businesses seeking payments under the settlement included some who haven’t actually suffered any injury related to the spill.

A district court and an appeals court ruled that, under the settlement BP agreed to, businesses do not have to prove they were directly harmed by the spill to collect money — only that they made less money in the three to eight months after the spill than in a comparable pre-spill period.

BP’s Macondo well blew up on April 20, 2010, killing 11 men. An estimated 103 million to 176 million gallons of oil spewed into the Gulf of Mexico before the mile-deep well was capped July 15, 2010. Lawyers for BP and the government agree that 34 million gallons was captured before it could pollute coastal marshes

and fishing grounds.

“Today’s ruling is a huge victory for the Gulf, and should finally put to rest BP’s two-year attack on its own settlement,” lead plaintiffs’ attorneys Stephen J. Herman and James P. Roy said in an emailed statement.

The settlement doesn’t have a cap, but BP initially estimated that it would pay roughly $7.8 billion to resolve the claims. The company said it can no longer give a reliable estimate for total cost. The company, which made separate settlements for medical claims and seafood-related business claims, has paid more than $13 billion in claims by individuals, businesses and government entities and another $14 billion-plus on response and cleanup, according to its oil spill website.

BP remains concerned “that

the program has made awards to claimants that suffered no injury from the spill — and that the lawyers for these claimants have unjustly profited as a result,” BP spokes-

business’s revenues and expenses. The company has been trying to oust Juneau.

U.S. District Judge Carl Barbier rejected its claims but BP went to the 5th U.S. Circuit THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

A wide beach fills an area that once was open Gulf water at Dauphin Island, Alabama. Hurricane Katrina cut the coastal island in two in 2005, but the gash has closed in recent months, and the island again is whole because a rock pile created after the BP oil spill in 2010 captured sand washing along the coast. man Goeff Morrell said in an emailed statement.

He added, “We will therefore continue to advocate for the investigation of suspicious or implausible claims and to fight fraud where it is uncovered.”

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals did get the method for calculating losses changed after BP argued that claims administrator Patrick Juneau wasn’t correctly matching

Court of Appeals.

A third-party audit of the settlement program, made public in November, found that it correctly processed 99.5 percent of claims. Chicagobased McGladrey LLP described the program as “welldesigned and appropriate.”

The deadline for medical claims is Feb. 12, 2015, according to the federal district court claims website. That for seafood-related businesses is past.

Mobile apps still collect information on kids

BY ANNE FLAHERTY The Associated Press WASHINGTON — Worried that toy stores, fast-food chains and other retailers are tracking your kids online this holiday season? A landmark 2013 law aimed at protecting the privacy of America’s youngest mobile consumers hasn’t stopped app developers from collecting vast amounts of data, including a person’s location and even recordings of their voice, according to privacy researchers and consumer advocates.

Whether mobile app developers seek parental consent first — as required by law — or pass the information on to advertisers isn’t entirely clear. But if you prefer to stay anonymous, your options are limited: Wade through each mobile app’s privacy policies to make sure you are OK with the terms, or stick the phone on “airplane mode” to shut off the wireless connection and risk losing functionality.

“Kids are such a lucrative market, especially for apps,” said Jeff Chester, executive director of the Center for Digital Democracy. “Unfortunately, there are still companies out there that are more concerned about generating revenue than protecting the privacy of kids.”

Americans have traded vast amounts of personal data in exchange for the ease and functionality of fun mobile applications on their phones. But how is industry using that information? Chester and other consumer advocates allege that fast food chains are increasingly focusing advertising dollars on digital media, targeting blacks and Hispanics. They also warn that data from

phones can be combined with offline information like home prices, race or income in ways that could violate fair lending laws. And a new site, PrivacyGrade.org, found that many popular kids’ apps such as Talking Tom and Fruit Ninja collect information in ways parents wouldn’t expect.

Concerned in particular about industries’ focus on kids online, the Federal Trade Commission in July 2013 expanded the Child Online Privacy Protection Act, or COPPA, to require app developers to get parental consent before collecting personal data on anyone younger than 13. That includes information like the unique identifying device on a phone, a person’s phone number or a device’s location.

“It’s upped the ante for companies deciding whether they are going to market to kids,” said Michelle De Mooy of the Center for Democracy and Technology. “And that’s a good thing.”

But with the number of smartphones expected to reach 3.5 billion in the next five years, according to Forrester Research, the mobile app and advertising industry has exploded. Regulators don’t have an easy, automated way of analyz-

ing the hundreds of mobile apps popping up each day.

Since the updated regulation went into effect, the FTC has brought about only two enforcement actions against mobile apps. Last September, the commission announced that Yelp Inc. agreed to pay $450,000 and TinyCo. $300,000 to settle separate charges that their companies knowingly collected information on young children through their mobile apps.

“Our ultimate goal is compliance,” said Kandi Parsons, an attorney in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. But “that doesn’t undermine our desire to bring cases against companies that violate COPPA ... where we find violations, we will bring cases against mobile apps.”

According to PrivacyGrade. org, which is run by computer scientists at Carnegie Mellon University, scores of apps that collect information are still aimed at kids.

For example, Fruit Ninja collects a phone’s location, which could be passed on to advertisers. And Talking Tom, where kids can talk to and “tickle” an alley cat using the touch screen, collects a child’s audio recordings along with other in-

formation that can uniquely identify a phone.

Whether these apps would violate COPPA would depend on a number of factors, including whether and how they seek parental consent. But because these apps collect information in surprising ways, PrivacyGrade.org gave them both D grades.

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hind Talking Tom, said in a statement that personal information and recordings are never shared with advertisers.

The developer says its app also complies with COPPA by providing “appropriate gate protections ... to distinguish adults from minors and restrict sharing on social media,” according to the statement.

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THE SUMTER ITEM

INCOME FROM PAGE A1 seven-year period covered by the numbers.

“The trend is upward and it’s consistent,” he said.

“The most important thing is over the past seven years we’ve closed the gap between Sumter and the state by a good bit. The state’s per capita income has grown by an average of about 2.8 percent per year since 2007, while Sumter’s has grown by about 4.2 percent per year. We are closing the gap.”

Schwedler said there are probably a number of factors behind the income growth but singled out the manufacturing sector and the growth of Shaw Air Force Base with the addition of the Third Army as among the biggest.

“There are always leading sectors and lagging sectors; we haven’t done an analysis to determine which is which.

But it’s obvious that, on the whole, Sumter is growing strong and outpacing the competition,” he said.

Schwedler said that to sustain the numbers of the next several years, local leaders need to continue their current efforts.

“Mostly we just need to keep on doing what we are already doing: creating an

environment where Shaw can grow and fostering industrial and commercial growth with business-friendly policies designed to build on Sumter County’s reputation as one of the best places to do business in the world,” he said.

A decline in unemployment has also been a contributing factor in the area’s rise in per capita income. Information released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics show the Sumter MSA unemployment figures have decreased from 8.9 percent in August 2013 to 7.5 percent in September 2014, a decrease of 1.4 percent. Statewide, unemployment has decreased in the same period from 7.7 percent to 6.6 percent, a decrease of 1.1 percent.

He said per capita income is among many statistics the board considers important.

“There are a lot of measuring sticks, but per capita income is one of the best,” he said. “We also pay attention to statistics like the unemployment rate, building permit activity, retail sales and the number of manufacturing jobs in our community as general indicators of economic health.”

FIRESIDE FUND FROM PAGE A1 Sumter community and the state.

If you need assistance, contact The Salvation Army at (803) 775-9336.

Donations may be mailed to The Sumter Item, P.O. Box 1677, Sumter, SC 29151 or dropped off at the office, 20 N. Magnolia St. Spell out acronyms and names correctly and clearly. When making a gift in someone’s name, please include a full identification. Names will be printed as given.

Contributions received as of Monday included: In memory of Annie Bradham from Horace Curtis, $100; In memory of Billy Barrineau and Tony Barrineau, my two sons, from Rose Price, $25; The Dalzell Divas, Red Hat Society, $188; retired Col. and Mrs. Donald P. Adee, $200; Jane F.K. Tisdale, $100; In memory of Mary Spann and Elliott Lenoir from Vickie and Fraiser Saunders, $100; In memory of Col. W.P. Alston and Effie M. Robinson from Mrs. Eddie R. Alston, $50; Steve and

Darla Dean, $150; Wesleyan Service Guild, Circle No. 5, of St. Mark’s UMC, $25; and Robert and Clara Fisette, $1,000.

Brewington FCL, $100; In memory of J. Alvin Burns from Marie Burns and Family, $300; Aldersgate United Methodist Women, $300; Andrena Ray, $100; The Women of Concord Presbyterian Church, $650; Betty and Bill Elliott, $25; Bethel United Methodist Church, $500; In memory of Deacon Willie B. Nelson and Deacon Lillie B. Nelson from The Davis Family, $200; In memory of Maj. Gen. Olsen from Gus and Ruby Pringels, $50; B.O. Wilder Jr., $50; In memory of John Brabham Sr. and John Brabham III from Louise Brabham, $100; and In memory of Rosa Hodge from Faithful Workers SS Class, $100.

Total Combined Anonymous: $524 Total This Week: $4,938 Total This Year: $12,077 Total Last Year: $62,869.17 Total Since 1969: $1,396,260.19

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A9

South Carolina State University to receive $12M from reserves

BY SEANNA ADCOX The Associated Press COLUMBIA — The state’s financial oversight board agreed Monday to dip into reserves and give South Carolina State University $12 million during three years, though questions remain about the school’s solvency and whether any of the money must be repaid.

The Budget and Control Board voted 3-1 to get the money from tax collections that are coming in above advisers’ expectations.

Gov. Nikki Haley, the board’s chairwoman, refused to vote, calling the decision irresponsible to both the university and taxpayers.

“There were no terms put with it, no accountability put with it, no responsibility,” she said after the meeting. “I wiped my hands of it.”

University President Thomas Elzey said the money represents the support needed to pay bills and move forward.

Whether the funding for the state’s only public historically black college represents a loan or a bailout becomes part of legisla-

tors’ budget debate in the upcoming session.

Haley said it clearly looks like a no-stringsattached gift.

“They just gave the money away because they know it can’t be paid back,” she said.

“If they thought it was a Band-Aid, it wasn’t even that.”

Last week, a legislative panel approved the $12 million plan, as recommended by a group of former and current college presidents assembled by Senate President Pro Tem Hugh Leatherman. The plan calls for the school to receive $6 million this fiscal year to pay long-overdue bills, then $4 million in 2015-16 and $2 million in 2016-17.

Normally, the budget board must approve loans and their conditions. But a clause in the 2014-15 budget — which Haley did not veto — removed that final step in this case.

It specified the budget board’s only role would be to identify the funding source within 15 days of a decision by the Joint Bond Review Committee, which Leatherman chairs.

“I didn’t think they’d handle it so irresponsibly,” Haley said about not vetoing the clause.

Transportation commission OKs state’s road needs plan COLUMBIA (AP) — The South Carolina Transportation Commission has given final approval to a plan projecting the state will need to spend another $60 billion during the next quarter century on roads, money which the state does not have.

The Statewide Multimodal Transportation Plan, which was the topic of public hearings across the state earlier this year, was approved at last week’s commission meeting in Columbia.

It projects that by 2040, the state will need to spend another $70 billion on transportation — about $60 billion of it on roads. The plan said with current revenue projections of only $28 billion during that period, the state will be about $1.5 billion short each year of meeting its highway needs.

Commission Chairman W.B. Cook said in a news release that the commission will discuss how to get the money and says the study can’t be allowed to languish. The plan, which outlines transportation needs in all

areas, is updated every five years.

Finding a way to fix South Carolina’s roads and bridges will be a top priority when lawmakers return to Columbia next month for the new legislative session. Up to a dozen bills to spend more highway money into are expected to be introduced.

One introduced last week by state Sen. Nikki Setzler, a Democrat from West Columbia, sets aside about $60 million yearly from sales tax collected on vehicles to be used for adding lanes to existing interstate highways.

The intermodal plan found that in 2011, 31 percent of the state’s interstate highway system experienced congestion for at least one peak hour a day. That figure is expected to rise to 62 percent by 2040.

The state maintains about 41,000 miles of roads, about half of that secondary roads for which the state receives no federal transportation money. One House committee has proposed transferring maintenance of those roads to South Carolina’s counties.

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N.G. Osteen 1843-1936 The Watchman and Southron

THE SUMTER ITEM

H.G. Osteen 1870-1955 Founder, The Item

H.D. Osteen 1904-1987 The Item

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

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

GUEST COMMENTARY

Here we go again

R

ecent articles in The State newspaper by Sammy Fretwell focus on the Pinewood commercial hazardous waste dump, which closed in bankruptcy 15 years ago. Why is it in the news today? The state Department of Health and Environmental Control is now asking for $40 million in public money over the next 10 years to pay for the mess this private firm made. The total could reach hundreds of millions in the coming decades.

The site, literally on the banks of Lake Marion, contains 4 million tons of toxic waste. Seventy-five percent came from outside S.C. Laidlaw/Safety-Kleen opened the site in the late 1970s using crude technology with no public notice.

Phil The site was Leventis fined millions of dollars over the years, a pittance compared to almost a billion dollars in cash flow it generated.

A DHEC staff report in the late 1980s indicated over $250 million (in 2014 dollars) of cash should be deposited with the state for expected monitoring, maintenance and leaks during the period 100 years after closure. Gov. Carroll Campbell and the DHEC board shot that down, taking instead a “promise” that the company would provide what was needed, when it was needed. Then the operators declared bankruptcy and left South Carolina.

Why is it in the news again?

It’s been closed 15 years. DHEC allowed politics to trump public interest. DHEC says the site is safe. Independent sources say it is not. Regardless, now public money is needed.

This is particularly pertinent today because a gold mine wants to expand in South Carolina. One farm in the Lowstate is being allowed to suck the Edisto River dry. And our governor and attorney general are pressing U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to loosen regulation of wetlands in the name of development. All three are like the dump — the profit is up front and the liabilities may be left to the public when the industry closes, takes their money and runs out of S.C. Moral hazard takes place when those who make the money take none of the risks.

With the gold mine, the water sink farm and the wetlands, citizens should demand that DHEC, on our behalf, get cash to pay us for the natural resources of the state these “developers” are using or abusing. If these costs make the business model unworkable for the owners, why should we allow them to shift costs to us for their profit? If we do, someone may be writing the media across the state in 2050 saying the citizens now have to pay millions because these companies made money here but left their mess to us ... like the dump.

We told governors, DHEC boards and staffers. It would be dereliction of duty for this governor and current DHEC board to allow this to happen again.

We told you so then and we are telling you again: Regulate in the interests of our citizens, not corporations that will leave us once they have had their way with our resources.

Phil Leventis is a former Democratic state senator from Sumter.

COMMENTARY

Racist cops — or liberal slander?

W

e have found the new normal in America.

If you are truly outraged by some action of police, prosecutors, grand juries or courts, you can shut down the heart of a great city.

Thursday night, thousands of “protesters” disrupted the annual Christmas tree lighting at Rockefeller Center, conducted a “lie-in” in Grand Central, blocked Times Square, and shut down the West Side Highway that scores of thousands of New Yorkers use to get home.

That the rights of hundreds of thousands of visitors and New Yorkers were trampled upon by these selfrighteous protesters did not prevent their being gushed over by TV commentators.

Watching cable, I saw one anguished man cry out from a blocked car that he was trying to get his sick dog to the vet. But his rights were inferior to the rights of protesters to block traffic, chant slogans and vent their moral outrage to TV cameras.

From New York to Washington to Oakland, crowds acted in solidarity to block main arteries at rush hour.

Has President Obama condemned this? Has Eric Holder?

Remarkable. Underlings of Gov. Chris Christie have been under investigation for a year for closing off lanes to the George Washington Bridge. Contrast liberal indignation at Christie, with liberal indulgence of the lawbreaking Thursday night, and you will see what people mean when they talk of a moral double-standard.

What were these protests about? A grand jury on Staten Island voted not to indict NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo in the death of Eric Garner last July. As the video that has gone global shows, Pantaleo sought to arrest Garner, a 6’5”, 350-pound man arrested many times before.

What was Garner doing?

Selling cigarettes one by one on a main street, a public nuisance for the stores and shops in front of which he

plied his trade, but not a felony, and surely not a capital offense. A misdemeanor at most.

As Garner backed away and brushed aside attempts to handcuff him, Pantaleo grabbed him from behind by the neck to pull him down, as other cops swarmed in.

Repeatedly, Garner cried, “I can’t breathe!” On the ground he again cried, “I can’t breathe!” And he died there on the sidewalk.

Undeniably, terrible and tragic. Undeniably, not a natural death. And, undeniably, the way Garner was brought down and sat upon, an arm Pat around his neck, conBuchanan tributed to, if it did not cause, his death.

Yet Garner did not die by strangulation. According to the city medical examiner, he died from the “compression of chest and prone positioning during physical restraint by police.”

The cops were holding him down by sitting on him.

As Rep. Peter King said Thursday, “If Garner had not had asthma and a heart condition and was so obese, he would not have died.” The Washington Post reports that the medical examiner seemed to confirm this, describing “Garner’s asthma and hypertensive cardiovascular disease as contributing factors.”

Why would a Staten Island grand jury not indict Pantaleo for murder or manslaughter in the death of Eric Garner?

In a word, intent.

Did Pantaleo intend to kill Eric Garner when he arrived on the scene?

Did Pantaleo arrive intent on injuring Eric Garner? No and no.

Pantaleo was there to arrest Garner, and if he resisted, to subdue him and then arrest him. That was his job.

Did he use a chokehold, which the NYPD bans, or a takedown method taught at the police academy, as his

lawyer contends?

That is for the NYPD to decide. The grand jury, viewing the video, decided that the way Pantaleo brought down Garner was not done with any criminal intent to kill or injure him, but to arrest him.

Garner’s death, they decided, was accidental, caused by Pantaleo and the other NYPD cops who did not intend his injury or death, with Garner’s asthma and heart disease as contributing factors.

Now that grand jury decision may be wrong, but does it justify wild allegations of “racist cops” getting away with “murder”?

This reflexive rush to judgment happens again and again.

We were told Trayvon Martin was shot to death by a white vigilante for “walking while black,” and learned that Trayvon, when shot, had been beating a neighborhood watch guy nearly unconscious, “martial arts style,” while sitting on top of him.

We were told that Ferguson cop Darren Wilson gunned down an unarmed black teenager for walking in the street, and learned that Michael Brown just robbed a convenience store, attacked Wilson in his patrol car, and was shot trying to wrestle away the officer’s gun.

Liberals are imprisoned by a great myth — that America is a land where black boys and men are stalked by racist white cops, and alert and brave liberals must prevent even more police atrocities.

They live in a world of the mind.

The reality: As of 2007, black-onwhite violent crime was nearly 40 times as common as the reverse. But liberals can’t give up their myth, for it sustains their pretensions to moral superiority. It defines who they are.

Patrick J. Buchanan is the author of the new book “The Greatest Comeback: How Richard Nixon Rose From Defeat to Create the New Majority.” © 2014 creators.com

EDITORIAL PAGE POLICIES 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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If ‘Rudolph’ is on TV, Christmas Day must be near

BY KEVIN MCDONOUGH Christmas arrives so early on television (and in stores and shopping centers) and with such furious insistence that I simply don’t pay much attention — until about now.

In fact, my Christmas meter — my innate sense that the holidays are truly breathing down my neck and that I had better at least give some thought to gift buying, card sending and clearing out the attic so I can find old ornaments and lights — is perfectly calibrated to the prime-time arrival of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (8 p.m., CBS, TV-G).

CBS often waits to air this 1964 classic until two weeks or so from the big day. And to me, that’s about right.

ABC tends to burn off “A Charlie Brown Christmas” way too early in the pre-season. A special that beloved should be savored till the right minute, not aired while there’s still leftover Thanksgiving cranberry sauce in the fridge.

CBS also continues its curious tradition of airing “Rudolph” on the same night as the “Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show” (10 p.m., TV-14). This has never made much sense to me, but annual repetition has turned it into a kind of holiday tradition.

OK, kids, just like Rudolph’s pal Clarisse sings, “There’s Always Tomorrow,” but you had better get to bed right now, so we can watch barely clad models bursting out of their lingerie and underwear!

Oh, I’m feeling more Christmasy already!

Arthur Rankin Jr., a cocreator of “Rudolph” with Jules Bass, died this past Jan. 30.

• The corporate upstairsdownstairs comedy “Ground Floor” (10 p.m., TBS, TV-14) enters its second season.

Somehow the first completely passed me by.

• Jax wants to fill his father’s shoes in the series finale of “Sons of Anarchy” (10 p.m., FX, TV-MA).

• The series “Song by Song” (10 p.m., Ovation) profiles electric violinist Lindsey Stirling, who reached her huge audience the old-fashioned way: YouTube.

Her videos, combining ani-

spouses, children and family life.

TV ON DVD TV-themed DVDs available today include “Doctor Who: The Complete Eighth Series” and “Mork and Mindy: The Complete Series”

SERIES NOTES Reverse Flash arrives on “The Flash” (8 p.m., CW, TV-14) * Coulson and Whitehall’s teams clash on “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D” (9 p.m., ABC, TVPG) * The gang questions Gil and Jake’s dynamic on “Marry Me” (9 p.m., NBC, TV-14) * * A test for Crowley on “Supernatural” (9 p.m., CW, TV-14).

LATE NIGHT CLASSIC MEDIA / CBS

The longest-running holiday special in television history, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” celebrates its 40th anniversary broadcast at 8 p.m. today on CBS. mation, music and choreography, have tallied more than 760 million hits. Her YouTube channel has more than 5.5 million subscribers. To put that in some perspective, that’s about how many people watch “About a Boy,” an NBC comedy in its second season.

CULT CHOICE Billy Bob Thornton, Bernie Mac and Lauren Graham star in the deliriously dark 2003 holiday comedy “Bad Santa” (8 p.m., WGN).

TONIGHT’S CHRISTMAS SPECIALS AND EPISODES • The voices of Fred Astaire and Mickey Rooney animate the 1970 special “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” (8 p.m., ABC, TV-G).

• Spencer’s murder charges dampen the holiday mood on “Pretty Little Liars” (8 p.m., ABC Family, TV-14).

• Only Santa can save the gang from an airport meltdown on “New Girl” (9 p.m., Fox, TV-14).

• April’s family holds an early Christmas on “Chasing Life” (9 p.m., ABC Family, TVPG).

• Will’s lawsuit hangs over the holidays on “About a Boy” (9:30 p.m., NBC, TV-14).

• Mindy wonders if mistletoe might mean marriage on “The Mindy Project” (9:30 p.m., Fox, TV-14).

TONIGHT’S OTHER HIGHLIGHTS • Three of five advance, followed by a previously eliminated “wild card” contestant, on “The Voice” (8 p.m., NBC, TV-PG).

• The top four tackle Alas-

kan salmon on “MasterChef Junior” (8 p.m., Fox, TV-PG).

• NBC News devotes an hour to movie promotion with “Angelina Jolie: Unbroken” (10 p.m., NBC).

• Violence coincides with Henry’s discovery of his mystery caller’s identity on “Forever” (10 p.m., ABC, TV14).

• “State of Play” (10 p.m., HBO, TV-PG) looks at the impact of sports celebrity on

2014-15

DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF TOM OLSEN

tUnE-yArDs perform on “Conan” (11 p.m., TBS) * Ben Stiller, Olivia Munn and LaLa Brooks appear on “Late Show With David Letterman” (11:35 p.m., CBS) * Jimmy Fallon welcomes Ricky Gervais and Steven Van Zandt on “The Tonight Show” (11:35 p.m., NBC) * Rosario Dawson, Eugenio Derbez, Sturgill Simpson and Bob Mould visit “Late Night With Seth Meyers” (12:35 a.m., NBC) * Craig Ferguson hosts Michael Sheen on “The Late Late Show” (12:35 a.m., CBS).

Copyright 2014, United Feature Syndicate

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

AROUND TOWN Road, Dalzell.

Clarendon School District One will conduct free vision, hearThe One Sumter Community ing, speech and developmental meeting will be held at 6:30 Free for Clarendon School Disscreenings as screenings part of a child p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14, at trict One children find effort to identify stuMount Zion Missionary Bapdents with special needs. tist Church.

Screenings will be held from The Westside Neighborhood As9 a.m. to noon at the Summerton Early Childhood Cen- sociation will meet at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 15, at ter on the following Thursthe Birnie HOPE Center, 210 days: Dec. 11; Jan. 8, 2015; Feb. 12, 2015; March 12, 2015; S. Purdy St.. Contact Jim McCain at (678) 429-8150 or jtApril 9, 2015; and May 14, mccain@bellsouth.net.

2015. For more information, call Sadie Williams or Audrey Performing Arts for the Holidays Walters at (803) 485-2325, ex- will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 15, at Patriot tension 221.

Hall, 135 Haynsworth St. All The 10th Annual Christmas Luforms of entertainment are minary Memorial Service prewelcome: instrumental, vosented by Evergreen and calists, mimes, choirs, poetHillside Memorial Parks will ry, praise dancers, and more. be held at 5:30 p.m. today at For additional information, 802 N. Guignard Drive. In the call the South Sumter Reevent of rain, event will be source Center at (803) 436held on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

2276.

The Mary McLeod Bethune The Sumter County Educators Sumter Branch will meet at 5 Association — Retired will hold p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12, at its Christmas program and Morris College. Call Lucile luncheon at noon on Washington at (803) 773Wednesday, Dec. 17, at New 1987.

Beginnings Restaurant, 1335 The Civil Air Patrol Sumter Com- Peach Orchard Road. Call posite Squadron’s Wreaths Brenda Bethune at (803) 469Across America ceremony will 6588 for additional informabe held at noon on Saturday, tion.

Dec. 13, at Sumter Cemetery, 700 W. Oakland Ave. The pub- The Sumter Combat Veterans Group will meet at 10 a.m. on lic, especially active duty Friday, Dec. 19, at the South and retired military memHOPE Center, 1125 S. Lafaybers and their families, are ette Drive. All area veterans invited to attend this event.

Perry Moses III, former flotil- are invited.

Good Samaritans For All People la commander of the U.S. will mark its 20th anniversary Coast Guard Auxiliary, will with the nonprofit’s Christmas speak. After the brief ceregiveaway starting at 8 a.m. on mony, attendees are welSaturday, Dec. 20, at Lee Cencome to help hang the tral High School, 1800 Wiwreaths along the cemetery sacky Highway, Bishopville. fence.

All families who need help Heartz 2 Soulz will hold its anare welcome to attend for nual “Giving Back to the Comtoys, clothes and food. Bicymunity Christmas Dinner and cles will also be available.

Gift-Giving Event” for local For more information, call homeless, addicts, prostithe Rev. Eddie Thomas at tutes, battered women, etc., from noon to 3 p.m. on Satur- (803) 459-4989.

Manchester High “55-70” will day, Dec. 13, at CJS Café N host its biannual school reunion Catering, 226 N. Washington on Friday, Dec. 26, 2014, at St. (inside Econo Lodge). Dothe Gamecock Shrine Club, nations of hats, scarfs, 1865 U.S. 15 S., Sumter. All gloves, coats, blankets and toiletries are being accepted school alumni / attendees are invited. Cost is $65 per for this event. Call (803) 774person. Payment deadline is 2233 or (803) 406-2446.

Dec. 15. Contact the Rev. The Sumter Branch NAACP will Rufus Gaymon at (803) 316hold its annual membership meeting at 5 p.m. on Sunday, 6428, the Rev. George Gaymon at (803) 600-5919 or Dec. 14, at High Hills Baptist Doris Harvin at (843) 906Church, 6750 Meeting House 8250.

PUBLIC AGENDA LEE COUNTY COUNCIL Today, 9 a.m., council chambers SUMTER HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION Today, noon, Sunset Country Club LYNCHBURG TOWN COUNCIL Today, 6 p.m., Teen Center on Magnolia Street, Lynchburg SUMTER COUNTY COUNCIL Today, 6 p.m., Sumter County Council Chambers SUMMERTON TOWN COUNCIL

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Stay on top of EUGENIA LAST your domestic situation or any home improvements you are making. Problems with fire, electronics or a tiff with someone you love can quickly lead to trouble. Expand your knowledge to prepare you for future trends.

The last word in astrology

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Think matters through carefully.

Moderation will be critical when dealing with investments. Don’t allow an emotional situation to cost you. Getting bent out of shape will not solve problems; it will only make matters worse. Stabilize important relationships.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You’ll be easily distracted. Don’t let anything hinder your ability to get a job finished. Partnerships will improve if you are a team player. Explore and expand your options. Thrive on change and show your diversity.

Romance is on the rise.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Use your unique and expressive insight to keep anyone trying to interfere in your plans at arm’s length.

Protect what’s yours by relying on your experience and past connections to ensure you are in control and on track.

Today, 6 p.m., town hall PINEWOOD TOWN COUNCIL Today, 6:30 p.m., town hall

DAILY PLANNER

THE SUMTER ITEM

WEATHER

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2014

AccuWeather® five-day forecast for Sumter TODAY

TONIGHT

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Sunny, breezy and warmer

Clear to partly cloudy

Plenty of sunshine

A full day of sunshine

Partly sunny

Partly sunny

55°

34°

55° / 30°

53° / 28°

56° / 29°

57° / 32°

Chance of rain: 5%

Chance of rain: 25%

Chance of rain: 0%

Chance of rain: 5%

Chance of rain: 0%

Chance of rain: 5%

WNW 10-20 mph

NW 6-12 mph

NW 7-14 mph

WSW 4-8 mph

NNW 3-6 mph

N 4-8 mph

TODAY’S SOUTH CAROLINA WEATHER

Gaffney 52/34 Spartanburg 53/34

Greenville 53/33

Columbia 56/35

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

IN THE MOUNTAINS

Charleston 57/37

Today: Partly sunny and breezy. High 53 to 58.

Wednesday: Plenty of sunshine. High 54 to 58.

LOCAL ALMANAC

LAKE LEVELS

SUMTER THROUGH 4 P.M. YESTERDAY

Full pool 360 76.8 75.5 100

Lake Murray Marion Moultrie Wateree

49° 40° 59° 35° 82° in 1998 17° in 2010

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

SUN AND MOON 7 a.m. yest.

356.83 74.33 73.99 95.95

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

trace 0.03" 0.81" 35.04" 46.88" 44.41"

NATIONAL CITIES

REGIONAL CITIES

Today Wed. City Hi/Lo/W Hi/Lo/W Atlanta 54/33/s 51/31/s Chicago 38/29/sf 34/22/pc Dallas 66/42/pc 62/47/c Detroit 41/29/sf 35/23/c Houston 69/45/s 64/49/c Los Angeles 76/56/s 73/58/pc New Orleans 67/43/s 58/42/s New York 44/40/r 40/33/sh Orlando 66/44/s 61/41/s Philadelphia 44/36/r 42/33/c Phoenix 78/54/s 77/54/s San Francisco 65/54/c 64/58/c Wash., DC 46/41/r 47/35/c

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 44/30/pc 54/30/s 58/29/s 58/38/s 52/41/c 57/37/s 54/34/pc 56/33/s 56/35/s 54/35/pc 51/38/c 51/37/pc 52/37/pc

Wed. Hi/Lo/W 44/25/pc 53/27/s 56/26/s 57/35/s 50/39/pc 56/34/s 54/28/s 55/31/s 56/30/s 55/29/s 54/33/c 54/32/s 54/31/s

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Roll out the red carpet and get ready to show off what you have to offer. You’ll attract both personal and professional interest if you share your thoughts. Romantic opportunities are present, but you may have to make the first move.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Make unique changes. A new job or finding a way to make some extra cash is apparent. Branch out by using your talents in diverse ways.

Applying what you know or do best to fit the current economic trends will pay off.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You’ll face opposition at home and must be careful not to confuse facts with fiction when dealing with personal matters. Precision and detail will be necessary when expressing your views. Keep your wits about you

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Don’t get caught in the crossfire. Take a course or discuss your concerns to help you get a better view of what you are dealing with. Invest in yourself and the things you want to pursue in the future.

Sunset Moonset

5:13 p.m.

9:32 a.m.

Last

New

First

Full

Dec. 14

Dec. 21

Dec. 28

Jan. 4

TIDES

Flood 7 a.m. 24-hr stage yest. chg 12 7.20 -0.10 19 3.56 -0.21 14 5.04 -0.63 14 3.53 +0.03 80 76.90 -0.07 24 6.58 -1.71

AT MYRTLE BEACH

Today Wed.

Today City Hi/Lo/W Florence 55/36/s Gainesville 62/36/s Gastonia 53/33/pc Goldsboro 49/38/pc Goose Creek 56/37/s Greensboro 51/36/pc Greenville 53/33/s Hickory 51/34/pc Hilton Head 56/38/pc Jacksonville, FL 60/36/s La Grange 59/31/s Macon 58/29/s Marietta 51/31/s

Wed. Hi/Lo/W 56/31/s 58/34/s 54/29/s 53/31/pc 56/33/s 50/29/s 52/30/s 49/29/s 54/38/s 57/33/s 55/29/s 55/28/s 50/29/s

High 10:40 a.m.

11:06 p.m.

11:20 a.m.

11:49 p.m.

Ht. 3.3 2.8 3.1 2.7

Low 5:03 a.m.

5:44 p.m.

5:45 a.m.

6:24 p.m.

Today City Hi/Lo/W Marion 50/34/pc Mt. Pleasant 56/38/s Myrtle Beach 53/38/pc Orangeburg 56/35/s Port Royal 57/39/pc Raleigh 51/36/pc Rock Hill 53/31/pc Rockingham 53/34/pc Savannah 59/38/s Spartanburg 53/34/s Summerville 56/37/pc Wilmington 52/37/pc Winston-Salem 51/36/pc

Ht. 0.0 0.3 0.2 0.4

Wed. Hi/Lo/W 49/26/pc 56/36/s 54/35/s 56/31/s 56/36/s 52/30/pc 53/27/s 53/26/s 58/35/s 52/30/s 54/35/s 55/32/s 50/29/s

your qualifying Trane 0% APR and Purchase system before Dec. 15, 2014 and take your choice of 0% APR for 48 with equal payments or up 48 MONTHS months to a $1000 trade-in allowance.

Call today for complete details & schedule your FREE in-home consultation to learn how much you can save.

803-795-4257

and avoid discord.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Choose your partners carefully.

Make sure that both parties in a relationship have something to contribute. Equality will determine the longevity of any connection in which you intend to participate. Be smart and considerate of others.

Sunrise 7:15 a.m.

Moonrise 8:25 p.m.

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

SUMTER COUNTY VOTER REGISTRATION / ELECTION COMMISSION Thursday,5:30 p.m., registration / election office, 141 N. Main St.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Embrace change. You’ll surprise everyone with your ability to handle whatever comes your way.

Draw on your experience and nothing will stand in your way.

Positive changes at home will add to your comfort and happiness.

24-hr chg +0.22 -0.08 -0.08 -0.11

RIVER STAGES

MAYESVILLE TOWN COUNCIL Today, 7 p.m., town hall

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Workrelated matters should be put into play. Use your skill, intuition and memory to help make things happen. Keep in mind that quality must be put before quantity if you want to stay ahead of the game financially.

Myrtle Beach 53/38

Aiken 56/31

ON THE COAST

TURBEVILLE TOWN COUNCIL Today, 6:30 p.m., town hall

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Don’t let your emotions interfere with what needs to be done. Speak up and take action. Someone you worked with in the past will help you out.

Make the first move and you will take any opposition you face by surprise.

Sumter 55/34 Manning 55/35

Today: Sunny, breezy and warmer. Winds west-northwest 10-20 mph.

Wednesday: Mostly sunny. Winds westnorthwest 4-8 mph.

Temperature High Low Normal high Normal low Record high Record low

Florence 55/36

Bishopville 54/35

LOTTERY NUMBERS PALMETTO CASH 5 MONDAY

POWERBALL SATURDAY

MEGAMILLIONS FRIDAY

1-4-21-27-38 PowerUp: 3

12-15-22-43-49 Powerball: 14 Powerplay: 2

4-5-11-51-59 Megaball: 5 Megaplier: 5

PICK 3 MONDAY

PICK 4 MONDAY

9-0-4 and 6-2-3

8-8-7-4 and 3-6-3-7

PICTURES FROM THE PUBLIC Sandy Tomlinson comments on her photo submission, “In Oregon we visited Crater Lake, which at 1,943 feet deep, is the deepest lake in the United States. It is also famous for its deep blue color. It was hard to walk away from that beautiful sight!”

HAVE YOU TAKEN PICTURES OF INTERESTING, EXCITING, BEAUTIFUL OR HISTORICAL PLACES? Would you like to share those images with your fellow Sumter Item readers? E-mail your hi-resolution jpegs to sandrah@theitem.com, or mail to Sandra Holbert c/o The Sumter Item, P.O. Box 1677, Sumter, SC 29150. Include clearly printed or typed name of photographer and photo details. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of your photo. Amateur photographers only please.

SECTION

Tigers upset Arkansas B4

B

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

Call: (803) 774-1241 | E-mail: sports@theitem.com

USC WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

COMMENTARY

Putback on top

Watson’s health more important than bowl

Wilson’s late bucket sinks Duke, keeps Carolina perfect and No. 1 in latest AP poll

BY DENNIS BRUNSON dennis@theitem.com

BY JOEDY MCCREARY The Associated Press DURHAM, N.C. — With the game on the line, No. 1 South Carolina put the ball in the hands of its preseason All-American.

It wound up going to the Gamecocks’ freshman star — and that turned out just fine, too.

A’ja Wilson’s putback of Tiffany Mitchell’s miss with 1.8 seconds remaining lifted South Carolina past No. 9 Duke 51-50 on Sunday.

“I didn’t hesitate ... We wanted the ball in (Mitchell’s) hands,” coach Dawn Staley said. “She definitely made a play for us. ... She sucked the defense in to give A’ja and all of our other players (a chance) to get the rebound and the putback.”

That putback kept South Carolina at No. 1 and dropped Duke out of the top 10 for the first time in six years in Monday’s new AP Top 25 rankings.

Asia Dozier scored 11 points and Wilson finished with 10 for the Gamecocks (8-0), who trailed by four with less than 20 seconds left before rallying for their first road win over a top-10 team in nearly three years.

Rebecca Greenwell had 12 points and foul-plagued All-American Elizabeth Williams had all five of hers in the final 4½ minutes. Duke (5-3) is on its first three-game losing streak since 2007-08.

Greenwell’s two free throws with 41.9 seconds left put the Blue Devils up 50-46.

Then came South Carolina’s comeback: Mitchell, a preseason All-American,

SEE TOP, PAGE B4

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

South Carolina’s A’ja Wilson, front, drives past Duke’s Elizabeth Williams during the Lady Gamecocks’ 51-50 victory on Sunday in Durham, N.C. Wilson’s putback with 1.8 seconds left helped USC remain unbeaten and at the top of the latest AP poll.

PRO FOOTBALL

There were no real shockers that came out of the bowl announcements for the Clemson and South Carolina football teams on Sunday. The Tigers had been penciled in for the Russell Athletic Bowl in Orlando, Fla., since Georgia Tech beat Georgia. They just needed to know who the opponent would be and it is Oklahoma.

USC knew it was being considered for one of three bowls, and it was seDennis lected to play in Brunson the Duck Commander Independence Bowl in Shreveport, La., against Miami.

Perhaps the biggest news of the day — and it was anticipated — was Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney opening the door that freshman quarterback sensation Deshaun Watson could have surgery on the torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee to begin the rehabilitation process and skipping the bowl game. Swinney was adamant after the Tigers’ 35-17 victory over South Carolina that Watson would play in the bowl game. Of course, that was when he thought his team would get an Orange Bowl invitation after Georgia beat Georgia Tech.

Swinney was taking a calculated risk when he played Watson against the Gamecocks on what was then said to be a tweaked ligament. There was no doubt in my mind how much he wanted to end the 5-game losing streak to Carolina when he tried the failed onside kick after Clemson’s first touchdown. When Swinney announced after the game that Watson had played with a torn ligament that took it to a completely different level.

Mission accomplished. Now it’s time to let Watson have the

SEE BRUNSON, PAGE B3

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

’Bama, FSU, OSU, Oregon star in powerful playoff

BY RALPH D. RUSSO The Associated Press

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Carolina quarterback Cam Newton (1) pushes New Orleans outside linebacker Kasim Edebali (91) away in the second half of the Panthers’ 41-10 victory on Sunday in New Orleans.

Newton, Panthers pound Saints

BY BRETT MARTEL The Associated Press NEW ORLEANS — Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers proved they can still summon the type of competent, passionate and feisty football associated with teams pushing for postseason berths.

After six straight mistake-filled losses, Carolina could not afford to wait any longer than its trip to the Big Easy to make piling up yards and points look — well —

easy again.

Newton passed for three touchdowns, incited a scuffle after soaring over the pile for another score and let running back Jonathan Stewart do the rest in a 41-10 rout of the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

“When you execute like that, it’s fun to watch. And when you don’t, it’s hard to watch,’’ said Newton, who was an efficient 21of-33 for 226 yards with no interceptions and no sacks.

The victory pulled Carolina (4-

8-1) closer to NFC South Division leader Atlanta (5-7), which plays Monday night at Green Bay. Newton also scrambled for 83 yards and Stewart rushed for 155 yards on 20 carries, highlighted by his 69-yard run that made it 31-3 early in the third quarter.

“When the offensive line is playing as well as they did today, and our running backs are running like they were, and our guys are catching the ball like they

SEE PANTHERS, PAGE B6

GRAPEVINE, Texas — The first College Football Playoff expanded the national championship race, made the regular season even more intriguing and produced a final four with major star power.

Nick Saban’s No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Urban Meyer’s No. 4 Ohio State Buckeyes at the Sugar Bowl.

Marcus Mariota, this season’s Heisman Trophy front-runner, and second-seeded Oregon vs. Jameis Winston, last season’s Heisman Trophy winner, and defending national champion Florida State at the Rose Bowl.

The winners will meet on Jan. 12 in Arlington, Texas, at the home of the Dallas Cowboys.

A new era, indeed, but with the same old problems: What is the best way to pick the teams and what should be the criteria?

After six weeks of ranking teams, the selection committee shuffled its deck Sunday and dealt the Big 12 out of the playoff.

“We’re smarting today,’’ Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby said.

TCU, which had been third in the rankings last week, ended up sixth. Big 12 co-champion Baylor moved up a spot to No. 5, but both were squeezed out by Ohio State, which won over the committee with a doozy of a closing statement in its conference championship game: a 59-0 victory against Wisconsin for the Big Ten title.

“I would say that

SEE PLAYOFF, PAGE B3

B2

|

SPORTS

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

SCOREBOARD

Cleveland at Brooklyn, 7:30 p.m.

Golden State at Minnesota, 8 p.m.

Utah at Sacramento, 10 p.m.

Phoenix at L.A. Clippers, 10:30 p.m.

TV, RADIO

TODAY’S GAMES

TODAY

11 a.m. -- Professional Golf: Indonesia Open Third Round from Jakarta, Indonesia (GOLF).

2:30 p.m. -- International Soccer: UEFA Champions League Match from Liverpool, England -- Basel vs. Liverpool (FOX SPORTS 1).

2:30 p.m. -- International Soccer: UEFA Champions League Match from Madrid -- Ludogorets Razgad vs. Real Madrid (FOX SPORTS 2).

2:30 p.m. -- International Soccer: UEFA Champions League Match from Istanbul -- Arsenal vs. Galatasaray (FOX SPORTSOUTH).

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

6:30 p.m. -- LPGA Golf: Rolex Awards Celebration from Naples, Fla. (GOLF).

7 p.m. -- College Basketball: Jimmy V Classic from New York -- Villanova vs.

Illinois (ESPN).

7 p.m. -- College Basketball: Seton Hall at Wichita State (ESPN2).

7 p.m. -- College Basketball: Missouri (Kansas City) at Iowa State (ESPNU).

7 p.m. -- College Basketball: IUPUI at Xavier (FOX SPORTS 1).

7:30 p.m. -- NHL Hockey: Los Angeles at Buffalo (NBC SPORTS NETWORK).

8 p.m. -- NBA Basketball: Dallas at Memphis (NBA TV).

9 p.m. -- Women’s College Basketball: Weber State at Brigham Young (BYUTV).

9 p.m. -- College Basketball: Jimmy V Classic from New York -- Indiana vs.

Louisville (ESPN).

9 p.m. -- College Basketball: Alcorn State at Iowa (ESPNEWS).

9 p.m. -- College Basketball: Texas A&M at Baylor (ESPN2).

9 p.m. -- College Basketball: Eastern Michigan at Michigan (ESPNU).

9 p.m. -- College Basketball: South Dakota at Creighton (FOX SPORTS 1).

10:30 p.m. -- NBA Basketball: Sacramento at Los Angeles Lakers (NBA TV).

Midnight -- NHL Hockey: Nashville at Colorado (FOX SPORTSOUTH).

NBA STANDINGS

By The Associated Press

Washington at Orlando, 7 p.m.

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

Boston at Charlotte, 7 p.m.

Philadelphia at Atlanta, 7:30 p.m.

Brooklyn at Chicago, 8 p.m.

New Orleans at Dallas, 8 p.m.

Portland at Minnesota, 8 p.m.

New York at San Antonio, 8:30 p.m.

Houston at Golden State, 10:30 p.m.

Miami at Denver, 10:30 p.m.

NFL STANDINGS

By The Associated Press AMERICAN CONFERENCE EAST W L New England 10 3 Miami 7 6 Buffalo 7 6 N.Y. Jets 2 11 SOUTH W L Indianapolis 9 4 Houston 7 6 Tennessee 2 11 Jacksonville 2 11 NORTH W L Cincinnati 8 4 Pittsburgh 8 5 Baltimore 8 5 Cleveland 7 6 WEST W L Denver 10 3 San Diego 8 5 Kansas City 7 6 Oakland 2 11

T 0 0 0 0

Pct .769 .538 .538 .154

PF 401 314 281 214

PA 267 260 241 349

T 0 0 0 0

Pct .692 .538 .154 .154

PF 407 314 220 199

PA 307 260 374 356

T 1 0 0 0

Pct .654 .615 .615 .538

PF 281 362 356 276

PA 289 319 255 270

T 0 0 0 0

Pct .769 .615 .538 .154

PF 385 293 291 200

PA 293 272 241 350

EAST

ATLANTIC DIVISION L 5 10 11 18 18

Pct .750 .444 .389 .182 .100

GB – 6 7 12 13

L 6 6 11 14 15

Pct GB .684 – .684 – .450 4 1/2 .391 6 .250 8 1/2

L 7 8 11 13 18

Pct GB .611 – .600 – .500 2 .350 5 .143 9 1/2

WESTERN CONFERENCE SOUTHWEST DIVISION W Houston 16 Memphis 16 San Antonio 15 Dallas 16 New Orleans 9 NORTHWEST DIVISION W Portland 16 Denver 9 Oklahoma City 7 Utah 5 Minnesota 4 PACIFIC DIVISION W Golden State 17 L.A. Clippers 14 Phoenix 12 Sacramento 10 L.A. Lakers 5

WEDNESDAY’S GAMES

NATIONAL CONFERENCE

EASTERN CONFERENCE W Toronto 15 Brooklyn 8 Boston 7 New York 4 Philadelphia 2 SOUTHEAST DIVISION W Atlanta 13 Washington 13 Miami 9 Orlando 9 Charlotte 5 CENTRAL DIVISION W Cleveland 11 Chicago 12 Milwaukee 11 Indiana 7 Detroit 3

Toronto at Cleveland, 7 p.m.

Portland at Detroit, 7:30 p.m.

New York at New Orleans, 8 p.m.

Milwaukee at Oklahoma City, 8 p.m.

Dallas at Memphis, 8 p.m.

Miami at Phoenix, 9 p.m.

San Antonio at Utah, 9 p.m.

Sacramento at L.A. Lakers, 10:30 p.m.

Philadelphia Dallas N.Y. Giants Washington SOUTH Atlanta New Orleans Carolina Tampa Bay NORTH Green Bay Detroit Minnesota Chicago WEST Arizona Seattle San Francisco St. Louis

W L 9 4 9 4 4 9 3 10

T 0 0 0 0

Pct .692 .692 .308 .231

PF 389 343 293 244

PA 309 301 326 346

W L 5 7 5 8 4 8 2 11

T 0 0 1 0

Pct .417 .385 .346 .154

PF 291 333 269 237

PA 299 359 341 348

W 9 9 6 5

L T Pct PF PA 3 0 .750 380 267 4 0 .692 265 224 7 0 .462 263 281 8 0 .385 281 378

W 10 9 7 6

L T Pct PF PA 3 0 .769 275 238 4 0 .692 322 235 6 0 .538 244 268 7 0 .462 285 285

SUNDAY’S GAMES

L 4 4 5 6 10

Pct GB .800 – .800 – .750 1 .727 1 .474 6 1/2

L 4 11 13 15 15

Pct GB .800 – .450 7 .350 9 .250 11 .211 11 1/2

L 2 5 9 10 16

Pct GB .895 – .737 3 .571 6 .500 7 1/2 .238 13

SUNDAY’S GAMES

Boston 101, Washington 93 Atlanta 96, Denver 84 Memphis 103, Miami 87 Oklahoma City 96, Detroit 94 Dallas 125, Milwaukee 102 Portland 103, New York 99 New Orleans 104, L.A. Lakers 87

MONDAY’S GAMES

Boston at Washington, 7 p.m.

Atlanta at Indiana, 7 p.m.

Denver at Toronto, 7:30 p.m.

N.Y. Giants 36, Tennessee 7 Carolina 41, New Orleans 10 Minnesota 30, N.Y. Jets 24, OT Pittsburgh 42, Cincinnati 21 St. Louis 24, Washington 0 Baltimore 28, Miami 13 Indianapolis 25, Cleveland 24 Detroit 34, Tampa Bay 17 Houston 27, Jacksonville 13 Denver 24, Buffalo 17 Arizona 17, Kansas City 14 Oakland 24, San Francisco 13 Seattle 24, Philadelphia 14 New England 23, San Diego 14

MONDAY’S GAME

Atlanta at Green Bay (late)

THURSDAY, DEC. 11

Arizona at St. Louis, 8:25 p.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 14

Oakland at Kansas City, 1 p.m.

Pittsburgh at Atlanta, 1 p.m.

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

Miami at New England, 1 p.m.

Houston at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.

Jacksonville at Baltimore, 1 p.m.

Green Bay at Buffalo, 1 p.m.

Tampa Bay at Carolina, 1 p.m.

Cincinnati at Cleveland, 1 p.m.

Denver at San Diego, 4:05 p.m.

N.Y. Jets at Tennessee, 4:05 p.m.

San Francisco at Seattle, 4:25 p.m.

Minnesota at Detroit, 4:25 p.m.

Dallas at Philadelphia, 8:30 p.m.

SPORTS ITEMS

Mariota, Cooper, Gordon named finalists for ’14 Heisman Trophy NEW YORK — Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota, Alabama receiver Amari Cooper and record-breaking Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon were selected Monday as finalists for the Heisman Trophy.

Mariota is considered the clear the front-runner to win the 80th Heisman on Saturday night in New York. He would become the first Oregon player to earn college football’s most famous player of the year trophy.

Mariota and the second-seeded Ducks will face Florida State and last year’s Heisman winner Jameis Winston at the Rose Bowl in the College Football Playoff semifinal on Jan. 1.

Cooper helped Alabama earn the top seed in the playoff. The Crimson Tide plays Ohio State at the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans.

Jamies Winston becomes the seventh player since 2003 to miss out on becoming a twotime Heisman winner. Ohio State’s Archie Griffin is the only player to win two Heismans.

SPIETH WINS BY RECORD 10 SHOTS AT ISLEWORTH WINDERMERE, Fla. — Jordan Spieth won the Hero World Challenge with a performance that tournament host Tiger Woods could appreciate.

Staked to a seven-shot lead, Spieth blew away an elite field at Isleworth and set two tournaments records Sunday when he

closed with a 6-under 66 for a 10shot victory over Henrik Stenson.

Woods closed with a 72 and tied for last in the 18-man field.

PATRIOTS 23 CHARGERS 14

SAN DIEGO — Tom Brady threw a 69-yard touchdown pass to Julian Edelman midway through the fourth quarter, and the New England Patriots beat the San Diego Chargers 23-14 on Sunday night.

From wire reports

FRANK’S

THE SUMTER ITEM

BOYS AREA ROUNDUP

Hawks top Furman 36-28 The Alice Drive Middle School boys basketball team remained unbeaten at 3-0 with a 36-28 victory over Furman on Monday at the Indians gymnasium.

Keonte Gree led the Hawks with 14 points, six rebounds and six assists.

Naqwan Mickens had 11 points and seven rebounds.

Kwaleek Jones added eight points and 10 rebounds. AD will host Lee Central on Wednesday.

Trevious Epps led the Indians with 10 points. Juwan Purdue added nine and Allan Clark had five.

Furman will host Bates on Thursday.

BATES 48 MAYEWOOD 31

Bates Middle School beat Mayewood 48-31 at the Bantams gymnasium on Monday.

Kareem Burson had 10 points to lead the Bantams while four other players contributed eight points apiece.

The Bantams will travel to Furman on Thursday.

VARSITY BASKETBALL LAKEWOOD 45 LEE CENTRAL 42 BISHOPVILLE — Lakewood High School improved to 2-1 on the season with a 45-42 victory over Lee Central on Saturday at the Lee Central gymnasium.

Jalen White led the Gators with 14 points.

Tyshawn Johnson finished with nine points and Daquan Tindal added seven.

TODAY Varsity Basketball Sumter at Spring Valley, 6 p.m.

Lakewood at Richland Northeast, 6 p.m.

Andrew Jackson High at Lee Central, 6 p.m.

Lake View at East Clarendon, 6 p.m.

St. Francis Xavier at Holly Hill (Boys Only), 6 p.m.

Varsity and JV Basketball Crestwood at Scott’s Branch (No JV Girls), 6 p.m.

Manning at C.E. Murray, 4 p.m.

Wilson Hall at Cardinal Newman, 4 p.m.

Heathwood Hall at Laurence Manning, 4 p.m.

Robert E. Lee at Marlboro, 4 p.m.

Calvary Christian at Sumter Christian (no Varsity Girls), 4 p.m.

WILSON HALL 34 CARDINAL NEWMAN 31 COLUMBIA — Wilson Hall held of Cardinal Newman with a 34-31 victory on Monday at the Cardinals gymnasium.

Landon Van Patton led the Barons with 12 points and eight rebounds. John Thomas Parker had 10 points. Mills Herlong contributed four points and six rebounds and Grey Holler added seven rebounds.

WH will travel to Camden Military on Wednesday.

SUMTER CHRISTIAN 45

NORTH CHARLESTON — Sumter Christian lost to Fountain Inn Christian 57-45 in the championship game of the Northside Christian Tournament on Saturday.

TJ Barron led the Bears, 4-2, with 16 points. Desmond Sigler added 10.

VARSITY WRESTLING SHS 16TH OUT OF 32

JV BASKETBALL

GREENVILLE — Sumter High School finished 16th in the 32-team Steadman Hawkins Southern Slam tournament held on Friday and Saturday at Eastside High School.

The tournament had teams from Alabama, Georgia and North Carolina as well as South Carolina.

The Gamecocks had four wrestlers place in their respective weight classes. Mac Mota was third at 160 pounds and David Pringle was third at 220. Donovan Jones was sixth at 152 and Reco Nicholson was seventh at 170.

THOMAS SUMTER 31 ROBERT E. LEE 15 BISHOPVILLE — Thomas Sumter Academy defeated Robert E. Lee 31-15 on Monday at the Cavaliers gymnasium.

Zach Fugate led the Generals with 14 points while Jared Washington added six.

LAKEWOOD 47 RICHLAND NORTHEAST 42

Lakewood’s Grant Singleton and Dontrea Osbourne each had eight points to lead the Gators to a 47-42

GIRLS AREA ROUNDUP

Jenkins leads TSA past Lady Cavs 30-20 JV BASKETBALL

Hannah Jenkins had eight points and 14 rebounds to lead Thomas Sumter past Robert E. Lee Academy 30-20 on Monday at the Cavaliers gymnasium.

Taylor Knudson contributed six points and nine steals. Logan Morris added four points and six steals. Latrice Lyons had six points and four steals.

The 5-1 Lady Generals will travel to Carolina Academy on Thursday.

LAKEWOOD 22 RICHLAND NORTHEAST 17

Lakewood beat Richland Northeast 22-17 on Monday at the Gators gymnasium.

Serena Choice led the Lady Gators with six points.

THOMAS SUMTER 27 ROBERT E. LEE 16

THOMAS SUMTER Chappell 2, Knudson 6, DeMonte 2, Jenkins 8, Nevels 2, Morris 4, Lyons 6.

ROBERT E. LEE Dinkins 3, Manuel 7, Griffin 2, Gaskins 6, DeFee 1.

BISHOPVILLE — Thomas Sumter Academy improved to 3-0 on the season with a 27-16 victory over Robert E. Lee Academy on Monday at the Cavaliers gymnasium.

Carmen Sylvester led TSA with 10 points and three steals. Allie Linder had six rebounds and three steals. Taja Hunley added five rebounds and two steals.

The Lady Generals will play at Carolina Academy on Thursday.

WILSON HALL 55 HEATHWOOD HALL 33 COLUMBIA — Wilson Hall improved to 4-1 on the season with a 55-33 victory over Heathwood Hall on Friday at the Heathwood gymnasium.

Lauren Goodson led the Lady Barons with 15 points, while Nicolette Fisher had 11. Holly Scott added eight.

MIDDLE SCHOOL BASKETBALL

SUMTER CHRISTIAN 32

BATES 30

FOUNTAIN INN CHRISTIAN 13

MAYEWOOD 9 Bates Middle School beat Mayewood 30-9 on Monday at the Bantams gymnasium.

Khamaya Hilton led Bates with 10 points, nine rebounds and three steals. Mia Emo added six points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal in the victory.

NORTH CHARLESTON — Sumter Christian School defeated Fountain Inn Christian 32-13 on Saturday in the consolation game of the Northside Christian Tournament.

Susanna Hutson had 19 points to lead the Lady Bears, who improved to 3-4 on the season.

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Malik Wilson added six points and eight rebounds for the 2-1 Gators.

Lakewood will host Lee Central on Friday.

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COLLEGE FOOTBALL

THE SUMTER ITEM

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

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B3

Bama’s Cooper, Mizzou’s Ray capture SEC awards USC’s Cooper, Cann named to first and second teams

BY PAUL NEWBERRY The Associated Press ATLANTA — Long known for its power offense, Alabama opened things up this season.

With a player such as Amari Cooper, that was a good call.

Cooper, the nation’s leading receiver, was honored as the Southeastern Conference offensive player of the year Monday by The Associated Press, recognizing his huge role in helping the Crimson Tide claim the No. 1 ranking and a spot in college football’s inaugural playoff.

Shane Ray became the second straight Missouri player to take the award as the leading defensive player, while Mississippi State’s Dan Mullen was selected as SEC coach of the year.

Georgia running back Nick Chubb was voted the top freshman.

South Carolina wide receiver Pharoh Cooper also made the first-team SEC list and made second-team as an all-purpose player. USC offensive lineman A.J. Cann was also selected to the second team.

Cooper, a 6-foot-1, 210-pound junior, leads the nation with 115 catches and 1,656 yards, and ranks second with 14 receiving touchdowns.

“Amari has gotten better every year,’’ coach Nick Saban said. “He’s a hard worker and a really prideful guy in terms of his performance. I just think he played with a lot more consistency this year. His focus has been better. He’s not let the little things bother him, whether it’s a little nagging injury or whatever. He’s just been a demon in how he competes.’’

With Lane Kiffin taking over as offensive coordinator, the Crimson Tide (12-1) went to a more fast-paced offense that was a perfect fit for Cooper and senior quarterback Blake Sims. A

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

South Carolina wide receiver Pharoh Cooper was selected to the AP All-SEC first team on Monday. Cooper was also selected as a second-team all-purpose player and offensive lineman A.J. Cann was also selected to the second team. team that had relied on a stout running game became a force through the air, ranking third in the SEC with 281 yards per game.

Alabama will meet Big Ten champion Ohio State in the Sugar Bowl semifinal game on New Year’s Day.

BRUNSON

PLAYOFF

FROM PAGE B1

FROM PAGE B1

surgery and get him on rehab road to get ready for the 2015 season. That was my thinking even if Clemson had received the Orange Bowl invite; no disrespect to the Russell Athletic Bowl, I’m surprised Swinney didn’t announce on Sunday that Watson was done for the year.

Clemson could have a big season awaiting it in ‘15 with a healthy Watson; having him at 100 percent by the summer is much more important than winning a bowl game.

Not that the Tigers are throwing in the towel by not playing Watson. This is an opportunity for Cole Stoudt to leave his mark on the program after struggling in most of his playing chances. New co offensive coordinators Tony Elliott and Jeff Scott need to coach him up and see what happens.

Also, Clemson has a defense that has proven itself to be stout as the season has progressed. And don’t you think that defensive coordinator Brent Venables will be more than just a little fired up to dial up defensive calls against his old boss, Bob Stoops?

As for USC, one of the good things about going 6-6 is it has broken up the monotony of going to either Tampa, Fla., for the Outback Bowl or to Orlando for the Florida Citrus Bowl. It’s been nine years since USC played in the Independence Bowl, and the vast majority of the world had never heard of Duck Commander at that time. Maybe there will be photo opportunities available with Willie, Phil, Uncle Si and Jase in Shreveport.

In all seriousness though, one would think the USC players will be ready for this game.

While this season has no doubt been a disappointment, a 7-6 record and winning three of its final four games as opposed to 6-7 and two straight losses will look much better in the history book. A victory would give Carolina its seventh straight winning season, only the second time that has happened in program history.

The other came from 1928-34.

So while the bowls may not be what was hoped for at the start of the season, there is still reason for anticipation for both programs at the end of the month.

human nature is that the most recent thing that occurs, in this case the mostrecent achievements, are the most impactful,’’ Bowlsby said. “Ohio State’s victory over Wisconsin was complete domination, and in that regard they played their way into the position they now enjoy.’’

The Big 12 doesn’t have one of those anymore. Its teams play only 12 games, compared to 13 for champions of the other Big Five conferences.

Bowlsby and his conference athletic directors are meeting in New York this week and he anticipates the topic of how best to determine a champion will come up.

“This will be a catalyst for discussion for sure,’’ Bowlsby said.

The Big 12 can’t hold a championship game because it only has 10 teams, but the conference, along

Ray, who leads the SEC with 14 sacks, kept the defensive award in Missouri’s hands after Michael Sam won it a year ago. With Ray and Markus Golden pacing the conference’s most fearsome pass rush, the Tigers (10-3) captured their second

with the Atlantic Coast Conference, is trying to change that. The leagues have proposed getting rid of NCAA rules requiring a conference have 12 teams split into two divisions to play a title game.

Holding one with 10 teams that play a nine-game roundrobin schedule isn’t ideal because the game would always be a rematch, Bowlsby said.

“I don’t know with 10 it’s something that we would necessarily do,’’ Bowlsby said. But conference expansion is a complicated issue that goes well beyond whether to hold a championship game.

Bowlsby cautioned about making a “knee-jerk’’ reaction to one year’s results. He said his faith in the process has not wavered.

“We put a system in place and I helped to put it in place and I have confidence in that system. And I have confidence in the impeccable integrity of the people in that room,’’ he said.

Baylor coach Art Briles

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straight SEC East title.

In the league championship game, Missouri lost to Alabama 42-13 this past weekend, a game that was marred by Ray’s brutal hit on Sims after he delivered a 58-yard touchdown pass. The Tigers star was ejected from the game, and Missouri settled for a spot in the Citrus Bowl against Minnesota.

“It’s not how you want to end your season at all,’’ Ray said. “I’m not a dirty player.’’

Mullen guided Mississippi State (102) to the top of the AP rankings for the first time in school history, a startling rise for a program that had long been an also-ran in the rugged SEC West.

The Bulldogs’ quest for a perfect season ended with a loss to Alabama, and any chance of making the four-team playoff was doomed by a loss to rival Mississippi.

Still, Mullen’s team was selected to play Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl.

The 5-10, 228-pound Chubb was expected to play a backup role for Georgia. That changed when star running back Todd Gurley received a fourgame suspension for selling his autograph, then went down with a seasonending knee injury.

With Chubb taking over the lead role, the Bulldogs didn’t miss a beat.

He finished second in the SEC with 1,281 yards rushing, averaging 6.9 yards per carry and scoring 12 touchdowns.

Cooper was a unanimous selection to the first team, which included five of his teammates: offensive lineman Arie Kouandjio, defensive lineman Jonathan Allen, linebacker Reggie Ragland, safety Landon Collins and punter JK Scott. Like Cooper, Collins was named on every ballot.

The other unanimous pick was Ole Miss cornerback Senquez Golson. The Rebels, who are headed to the Peach Bowl, had four other players on the first team with offensive lineman Laremy Tunsil, tight end Evan Engram, defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche and safety Cody Prewitt.

wasn’t so sure.

“I think the committee needs to be a little more regionalized with people that are associated with the south part of the United States,’’ he said. “I’m not sure there is a connection on there that is that familiar with the Big 12 Conference.’’

There were five active athletic directors on the 12-member committee, one from each of the Big Five conferences. The Big 12 was represented by West Virginia’s Oliver Luck. The Mountaineers have been in the Big 12 for three seasons.

Maybe the most jarring part of Sunday’s unveiling was TCU dropping three spots from the last rankings.

The Horned Frogs seemed to be secure at No. 3 last week, and then beat lowly Iowa State by 52 on Sunday.

Committee chairman Jeff Long said TCU’s drop was more about the Buckeyes than the Frogs, but it highlighted a problem with weekly rankings. Commis-

sioners initially leaned toward not having them when they first started putting the playoff together.

While Long would emphasize every week the committee started with a clean slate, traditionally college football polls create a pecking order for teams that only gets disrupted by losses.

The top six teams in last week’s rankings all won on Saturday. On Sunday, the teams were the same, but the order was very different.

And it left many fans wondering why.

Long said it was too soon to say what changes the committee would recommend to the commissioners.

It’s safe to say the benefit of having weekly rankings will be addressed when Long’s crew reconvenes in a couple of months.

“I think that the committee will look at this year, look at this season, look how the entire process went,’’ he said.

Until then, let the playoff games begin.

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COLLEGE BASKETBALL

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

THE SUMTER ITEM

Clemson upsets No. 18 Arkansas 68-65 in OT PETE IACOBELLI The Associated Press

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Clemson’s Rod Hall, right, drives to the basket while defended by Arkansas’s Moses Kingsley during the Tigers’ 68-65 overtime victory on Sunday at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson.

WOMEN’S AP TOP 25 1. S. Carolina (23) 2. UConn (7) 3. Texas (4) 4. Texas A&M 5. Notre Dame 6. North Carolina 7. Stanford 8. Kentucky 9. Baylor 10. Louisville 11. Tennessee 12. Nebraska 13. Duke 14. Maryland 15. Oregon St. 16. Georgia 17. Rutgers 18. California 19. Michigan St. 20. Oklahoma St. 20. Syracuse 22. Mississippi St. 23. West Virginia 24. Iowa 25. DePaul

Record 8-0 6-1 6-0 9-0 8-1 8-0 5-2 8-1 6-1 8-1 6-2 7-1 5-3 7-2 7-0 10-0 7-1 7-1 5-2 6-1 6-1 8-0 6-1 7-2 6-2

Pts 837 805 772 740 738 685 613 585 552 534 465 425 408 377 358 354 304 298 238 197 197 194 122 72 63

Prv 1 3 4 5 2 6 8 13 11 7 14 12 9 15 17 19 18 10 16 20 21 23 24 22 25

Others receiving votes: Green Bay 26, St. John’s 15, Northwestern 14, Arizona St. 13, Princeton 7, Washington St. 7, James Madison 6, Minnesota 6, W. Kentucky 5, Washington 5, South Florida 4, Florida St. 3, Oklahoma 3, Kansas 2, Arkansas 1.

TOP FROM PAGE B1 hit a 3 with 17.9 seconds left.

Khadijah Sessions and Olivia Gaines teamed to steal the ball from Greenwell in the backcourt.

The Gamecocks called timeout with 10.9 seconds left and worked it to Mitchell, who drove the lane but missed with about 4 seconds left. The rebound went to Wilson, who scored in traffic.

“The thing we emphasize the most is rebounding,” Wilson said. “So I know whatever shot went up, I have to go in and (get) the rebound.”

Ka’lia Johnson’s desperation heave at the buzzer didn’t come close for Duke.

Williams missed Duke’s past two games — both road losses to nationally ranked teams — with a foot injury. She spent the entire day in foul trouble, picking up her fourth with 13:25 remaining.

She checked back in with 5:17 left and hit a layup to restore the Blue Devils’ onepoint lead, added a hook shot in traffic and drew a risky charge on Wilson with about 4 minutes left.

The Gamecocks started the second half with a 15-4 run that gave them a seven-point lead — the largest lead by either team. Dozier hit two 3-pointers during the run before her free throw with 12:53 remaining put South Carolina up 32-25.

“No way are you coming out of that locker room soft,” Duke coach Joanne P. McCallie said. “No way.”

CLEMSON — Clemson coach Brad Brownell wasn’t sure how long it would take his team to get over a second-half collapse Monday against Rutgers. Turns out, it took just one game.

The Tigers rallied from six points down in the final minute to force overtime, then went on to defeat No. 18 Arkansas 68-65 on Sunday.

Rod Hall scored 11 of his 19 points in the final minute of regulation and overtime to rally Clemson (5-3).

Brownell wasn’t sure what might happen after his team blew a sevenpoint lead in the final eight minutes in falling to the Scarlet Knights 69-64 at home earlier this week.

“I was really disappointed with the Rutgers game,” Brownell said.

“It really bothered me.”

So there wasn’t much hope when Clemson found itself trailing 57-51 with a minute to go. That’s when Hall led the comeback with two layups to draw the Tigers within a basket. Rashad Madden coughed up the ball again for Arkansas, and Jaron Blossomgame made a layup to tie the game at 57-57.

Blossomgame said the team wasn’t worried about its past failures during the rally. “I think we put Rutgers behind us,” he said.

“We had three days of tough practices competing against each other.

Coach made it really tough for us.”

Hall said the team had lost games because of its effort and the players made sure that wouldn’t be the case this time. “That was the key to the game,” he said.

Hall started the extra period with a 3-pointer to put Clemson ahead for good.

UK unanimous No. 1; Kansas back in Top 10

BY STEPHEN HAWKINS The Associated Press Kansas coach Bill Self saw in one game just how bad and how good his Jayhawks can be.

The Jayhawks (6-1) moved back into AP Top 10 on Monday, three days after an impressive 71-65 comeback victory over Florida.

“I learned how we can look obviously when we’re not focused and prepared to play, and basically how slow we can look because they dominated us with their speed in the first half,’’ Self said Monday.

“We found out a lot of things. It’s a long game. Defensive rebounding can keep you in the game even when the offense is laboring. I think we showed some toughness there, no question, in the second half.’’

Kentucky, the team responsible for the Jayhawks’ only loss, remained No. 1 in the new poll.

The Wildcats (9-0) became the unanimous No. 1 team Monday, getting the first-place votes on all 64 ballots cast. Syracuse spent two weeks as a unanimous No. 1 last season.

Wisconsin had been getting some first-place votes before its 80-70 loss last week to Duke. The Badgers slipped from second to fifth in the new rankings.

Duke (8-0) replaced Wisconsin at No. 2, jumping two spots and ahead of No. 3 Arizona (8-0), which stayed undefeated with a 66-63 overtime victory against No. 9 Gonzaga over the weekend.

Louisville was up one spot to fourth. Virginia, Villanova, Texas and Gonzaga were ahead of Kansas.

Since its 72-40 loss to the Wildcats on Nov. 18 that dropped Kansas from fifth to 11th in the poll, the Jayhawks have won their past five games. The latest was against another top SEC team.

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Michael Qualls hit a 3-pointer to bring Arkansas within 68-65 with 1:01 to play. But that was as close as the Razorbacks (6-2) would get.

Qualls had 21 points and Portis 18 for Arkansas, which has lost its second straight after opening with six consecutive wins.

“Once it got in overtime, momentum kind of shifted,” Arkansas coach Mike Anderson said. “But it wasn’t because of lack of effort. We just didn’t finish the way that we’re capable of.”

Blossomgame added 17 points for Clemson.

This one certainly looked like a defeat for Clemson after Arkansas overcame a nine-point deficit to lead by as many as eight points down the stretch.

Arkansas had a chance to get closer in overtime down 68-65, but Alandise Harris missed a layup and Qualls was short on a 3-pointer in the final seconds.

The matchup featured one of the country’s top offenses in Arkansas against a Clemson team that hangs its hat on defense — the Tigers were fifth nationally last year in points given up.

And it was defense that won out early as the Razorbacks were held to their fewest points in a half this season.

Clemson led 29-20 after Hall’s 3-pointer with 2:02 left in the opening period. But Michael Qualls scored the final five points of the half, including a three-point play, to trim Clemson’s margin to 29-25 at the break.

Similar shooting woes that doomed Clemson against Rutgers cropped up again as the Tigers made only two of their final 12 shots of the half.

Keeping Sumter Beautiful Jolie Brown Clemson Extension • Carolina Clear, Sumter County Bad Things Happen in Three’s I’m sure you have heard the old saying, “bad things happen in three’s.” I believe this saying, because it is happening to me. First, we had a company come to our home and check our heating and air unit. This is a 20 plus year old unit that I would venture to guess has not been checked in over 10 years. We live in a home that has been in my husband’s family since it was built by his great-grandfather in 1935. Renters have used this home for the past 20 years. After checking our unit, the repairman called my husband and declared that we desperately needed a new unit. As a matter of fact, he was just happy we were OK, and had not been inhaling fumes. There was a lot wrong with our old unit.

There was a hole found in the air handler, the burners were rusted out, and the two safety switches were “jerry-rigged.” I am indebted to this repairman for finding these safety hazards. I was not happy last night when my husband called to say we had no heat, but luckily it was a warm night. I am also grateful to this heating and air repairman for calling his boss and telling him he had a pregnant woman with no heat and he had to fix it first thing the next morning! I am happy to report that our unit was delivered this morning.

Our second bad thing happened when my husband went to move a tractor at the farm to get ready for soybean harvest. Someone had left out the dipstick so no telling what kind of rain, leaf litter, bugs, etc was left in the oil pan. Now he has to change the oil, buy a new dipstick because it has not been found, and change all of the oil filters. My husband was not happy about this inconvenience; harvest time is crunch time on the farm. We are currently waiting on our third bad thing. I am sure it won’t be long.

I do have some good news to add to this article, you do not have to wait for three bad things to happen in your yard. Instead, you can prepare and make

three good things happen! First, be sure to get a soil sample before you fertilize your lawn this spring.

Make sure you know what nutrients your yard needs and what nutrients your yard is already sufficient. This simple step will save you money from wasted fertilizer and will make sure our local rivers and streams do not receive excess nutrients from over fertilization. Second, you can check your irrigation systems and make sure they are only irrigating the areas in your lawn that need water and are only putting out water when your lawn needs it. I can’t tell you how many times I have driven down the road and have seen irrigation systems going full blast during or right after a rain. Your lawn only needs about an inch of water a week. Thirdly, you can apply a fresh layer of mulch to your flowerbeds and around your trees. Using mulch the correct way can help keep your soil moist, moderate soil temperatures, and reduce weed pressure. If you use the free mulch that falls from your trees, you can have all of this at no extra cost! When you mulch, maintain a two to three inch layer over the roots of trees, shrubs, and plant beds. Be sure to keep the mulch a hands width of space away from the plant’s trunk or stem.

Sometimes life happens and bad things come in three’s. Other times, you can be proactive and make good things happen in three’s. I would encourage you to be proactive when possible and roll with the punches when you have to. For more landscape and gardening tips, visit Carolina Clear’s Carolina Yards website at www.clemson.edu/cy or visit your local Clemson Extension office for a new Carolina Yardstick Work Book.

Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.

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Worried teenager hesitates to confront mother DEAR ABBY — What are the signs of prescription drug abuse?

How would you suggest a young person like me Dear Abby (I am 13) confront a ABIGAIL close family VAN BUREN member about something like this, especially since I’m not sure?

I found an antidepressant prescribed for my mother. As long as I can remember, she has been a happy and upbeat person, and I have no reason to suspect she’s depressed.

I’m worried she may be abusing the medication.

I have never felt comfort-

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

able asking questions, so it would not be easy for me to ask her. Please help. I now have trouble even speaking to her. Any advice would be appreciated.

Worried teen in Boston DEAR WORRIED TEEN — Perhaps it will lessen your fears to know that antidepressants are sometimes prescribed not only for depression, but also to help people with sleep problems and other conditions. You have reached an age when it is important for teens to be able to talk to their parents about any concerns they may have, and you should talk to your mom about this. Please don’t procrastinate.

DEAR ABBY — My fiance and I

THE DAILY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

recently got engaged, and I was thrilled when he got down on one knee with my great-grandmother’s ring.

While I love both the ring and the idea that we saved a lot of money we can now put toward our wedding, I can tell he feels awkward when wellwishers congratulate him on having selected such a pretty and expensive ring. What’s the best way to respond to these comments and make my fiance feel like he did a great job?

Vintage-loving bride DEAR VLB — It isn’t necessary to discuss the history of the ring with everyone who comments. Because you know your fiance is sensitive about it, just smile and say thank you.

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.

ACROSS 1 Palm reader, e.g.

5 Implied with a nod, say 10 Music-playing Apple 14 Berry rich in antioxidants 15 Solo 16 Taboo 17 Six-time French Open champ Bjorn 18 “I speak for the trees” Seuss character 19 TV series with many choreographed numbers 20 Star system closest to the solar system 23 Snuggles 24 Wallops 27 Long in the tooth 28 Software development phase 30 Good, in the Gal‡pagos 33 Melody 34 Prefix with morph 35 Attorneys’ org.

36 Week-long year-end celebration 39 River to the Rhine 40 Words of denial

42 “Deal __ Deal” 43 Stick around 45 Bit of electromagnetic radiation 47 __ au vin 48 Stonewall 49 Appraise 53 Atlantabased carrier 56 Use a Taser on 58 “Steppenwolf” author 59 Official proclamation 60 Show of affection 61 Steaming mad 62 Raison d’__ 63 Pay to play 64 Lacking face value, as stock 65 Comical Martha DOWN 1 Crimson Tide coach Nick 2 School, to Yvette 3 Old West brothers 4 “Amen, brother!”

5 Sprinkled with baby powder 6 Medicinal plants 7 Iowa crop 8 “For those listening __

home ...”

9 Oil, informally 10 Unappreciative sort 11 Precinct wheels 12 United 13 Deer girl 21 “No problem here” 22 Actress Thurman 25 Relatively cool heavenly body 26 Building level 28 Ski slope beginner 29 Automaker Ferrari 30 Foreheadcovering hair 31 WWII sea threat 32 “Try and catch me!”

33 “Gone With the Wind” estate 37 Became harder to deal with 38 Coral ring 41 Ginormous 44 Ground water source 46 Feel poorly 47 Life’s work 49 Panoramic view 50 Santa __ racetrack 51 Emotional 52 Perfumer Lauder 54 Aviation prefix 55 PDQ kin 56 Reggae cousin 57 Cookie holder

B6

|

SPORTS

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2014

PANTHERS FROM PAGE B1 were, it’s hard to lose,’’ Newton said.

For Saints coach Sean Payton, it was hard to watch as New Orleans (5-8) lost its fourth straight home game to fall a half-game behind the Falcons.

“Obviously, that’s embarrassing — how we played, how we coached. You pick an area, you pick a phase and it was awful,’’ Payton said. “It

THE SUMTER ITEM

couldn’t have started any worse and couldn’t have finished any worse.’’

The Panthers scored an NFLlow 30 first-quarter points during their first 12 games combined. Against New Orleans, Carolina scored on its opening series for only the second time on Kelvin Benjamin’s 9-yard touchdown catch. The Panthers wound up scoring 17 points before 9 minutes had elapsed, thanks in no small part to Saints’ turnovers.

Mark Ingram’s fumble on

the New Orleans 25 led to a field goal. Bene Benwikere’s interception of Drew Brees led to Newton’s rushing TD, which in turn led to a brief melee behind the end zone.

Newton was jawing with defensive end Cam Jordan, then linebacker Curtis Lofton shoved Newton just as the quarterback broke into his “Superman’’ celebration. The scrum that ensued burst through a closed gate behind the goal post and spilled into a tunnel.

Tight end Brandon Williams was ejected for punching Jordan.

Newton said the scuffle resulted from “a lot of testosterone on that field at one time.’’

Lofton, who was penalized but not ejected, said he didn’t regret his shove and was not going to stand for what he viewed as Newton taunting.

During Carolina’s six-game skid, Newton threw nine interceptions and just six touchdown passes, and was sacked 25 times. Against the Saints,

he had his fourth career game with at least 200 yards passing, multiple touchdown passes, 80-plus yards rushing and a touchdown run.

Despite losing four of five games, the Saints will remain tied for first place in the NFC South if Atlanta lost to the Packers on Monday. Carolina, meanwhile, would sit a half game behind both the Saints and Falcons. If the Falcons upset Green Bay, they’ll take a one-game lead, but still must play in New Orleans on Dec. 21.

Andy Poole, Eric Putt (Melissa), Ryan McDavid (Hope), Brittany Dinkins (David) and Caroline Degnan Williams (Clint).

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Krissie Degnan; two brothers; and a sister.

A service to honor his life will be held at 2 p.m. today in the Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Charles Clanton officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Andy Poole, Harold Poole, David Dinkins Jr., Clint Williams, Jonathan Hanna, Roonie Poole Jr., Eric Putt and Ryan Flemming.

The family will receive friends at the home.

On behalf of his deep love of the Lord and 41 faithful years as a member of First Baptist Church, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 107 E. Liberty St., Sumter, SC 29150.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements. www.ecsfuneralhome.com

Dec. 6, 2014, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

He was born on Jan. 4, 1963, in Sumter County, a son of the late Fred Sr. and Mary Ann Richardson Pleasant.

The family will be receiving friends at the home, 467 Allen Drive, Sumter, SC 29150.

Funeral plans are incomplete and will be announced later by Job’s Mortuary Inc. of Sumter.

AARON RHODES

EUGENE BROWN JR.

GABLE — Aaron Rhodes, 85, widower of Vivian McFadden Rhodes, died on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014, at his residence, 2627 Black River Road, Gable.

He was born on Nov. 24, 1929, in the Cartersville section of Lee County, a son of the late Robert and Annie Francis Rhodes.

He was preceded in death by a son, Robert McFadden Sr.; eight brothers; and three sisters.

He received his formal education in the public schools of Lee County. He was a member of Melina of Presbyterian Church, USA and served on the board of trustees and men’s council. He was also a member of Golden Gate Masonic Lodge No. 78.

Survivors are a sister, Eula Mae Felder of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; a daughter-inlaw, Priscilla McFadden of Gable; four grandsons, Robert (Lexis) McFadden, Woodrow (Biritlee) McFadden, Travis Quattlebaum and Jeffery Copeland of Sumter; and four great-grandchildren.

Masonic rites will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. today in the Hayes F. and LaNelle J. Samuels Sr. Memorial Chapel, 114 N. Church St., Manning.

Celebratory services will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at Melina Presbyterian Church, USA, Black River Road, Gable, with Pastor Samuel Sparks officiating and the Rev. Mary Hagen assisting.

Burial will follow in the churchyard cemetery.

Mr. Rhodes will lie in repose one hour prior to funeral time.

The family is receiving friends at the residence.

These services have been entrusted to Samuels Funeral Home LLC of Manning.

Eugene Colzy “Gene” Brown Jr., 88, husband of the late Mary Olene Burns Brown for 62 years, died on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in the Oswego community of Sumter County, he was a son of the late Eugene C. Sr. and Marie Laurella White Brown. Mr. Brown was a lifelong member of Bethel United Methodist Church and a member of the John L. Edens Bible Class. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and retired from DuPont after more than 30 years of service. He was a Mason, Shriner, member of American Legion Post 15, the Woodmen of the World, and an active longtime member of the Sumter Family YMCA. Mr. Brown was also a member of the Sumter Historical Society.

He enjoyed studying genealogy and family history.

Survivors include two daughters, Mary Ann Brown Knight (Hugh) of Charleston and Linda Jean Brown Lavender (Jimmy) of Sumter; three grandchildren, Hugh Franklin Knight III (Meredith), Brian Burns Knight and Mary Katherine “Katie” Lavender; two great-grandchildren, Allison Blair Knight and Anna Elizabeth Knight; two brothers, Dr. Charles Myers Brown of Urbana, Illinois, and Melvin Ervin Brown of Oswego; one sister, Anne Marie Brown Partin (Wayne) of Manning; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday at Bethel United Methodist Church with the Rev. Jeremy Howell officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons, Brian Knight and Hugh Knight III, as well as John Brown, Mel Brown, Dr. Kevin Brown and Mitchell Johnson.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m. today at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the home of his daughter, 730 Oakbrook Blvd.

Memorials may be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, 5575 Lodebar Road, Sumter, SC 29153; The Sumter Family YMCA, 510 Miller Road, Sumter, SC 29150; or a charity of one’s choice.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.

OBITUARIES THEOLA TEMPLES Theola Myrtle Belt Temples, age 77, beloved wife of the late Dent Manning Temples, died on Friday, Dec. 5, 2014, at McElveen Manor.

She was born in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, a daughter TEMPLES of the late Merle Edgar and Ethel Graham Belt.

She was formerly employed

by Belk. She loved to paint and do crafts and was a member of the Shepherd Center of Sumter. She was a member of Westside Baptist Church.

Surviving are two sons, David Michael Temples and his wife, Robyn, of Wichita, Kansas, and Jeffrey Rountree Temples and his wife, Anna, of Columbia; a daughter, Patty Sue Bowles and her husband, Marq, of Bulverde, Texas; a daughter-in-law, Teresa Miller Temples of Sumter; a brother, Leroy Belt of Arkansas; nine grandchildren, Derek Norman, Ian Temples, Lacey Norman, Kyndall Beach, Kyle Temples, Kelly Temples, Chad Temples, Bradley Temples and Angel Temples; and one greatgrandchild.

She was predeceased by a son, Gary Temples.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Bullock Funeral Home and other times at the family residence.

You may sign the family’s guest book at www.bullockfuneralhome.com.

The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home of Sumter for the arrangements.

SHAWN CARTER Shawn Carter, 20, died on Dec. 7, 2014, at Clarendon Memorial Hospital in Manning.

Born in New York, he was a son of Lucy Carter.

The family will receive friends at the home, 59 First St., Summerton.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced by Summerton Funeral Home LLC, (803) 485-3755.

CLYDE W. REAM Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Clyde William Ream died on Monday, Dec. 8, 2014, in Columbia.

Services will be announced

by Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, (803) 7759386.

GEORGE H. POOLE George Hilton Poole, 89, a loving, devoted Christian husband, father and grandfather entered his heavenly home on Friday, Dec. 5, 2014.

A blessing to all he met, George was the definition of unconditional love.

His sweet, funPOOLE loving spirit will live on in all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Armed with his sweet smile and a laugh to share, George never met a stranger and enjoyed nothing more than sharing his deep love of the Lord.

“Daddy” was the patriarch of the family and built a strong legacy that will continue on for generations to come. His family will cherish the precious memories of their beloved “Daddy” and “Granddaddy” for the rest of their lives.

George was born on Jan. 23, 1925, to the late Roney and Marie Poole. He was a proud Navy veteran and served on the USS Randolph in World War II. After retiring from the state, he became a successful businessman, building three local stores. George was proud of the life he built but his greatest pride was always the love he had for the Lord and his precious family.

Survivors include his wife of 67 wonderful years, Thelma; his two children Judy Hanna (Wayne) of Greer and Rod Poole (Cyndee) of DeBary, Florida; and seven grandchildren, Elizabeth Pitts (Lee), Catherine Fleming (Ryan), Jonathan Hanna,

FRED PLEASANT JR. Fred Pleasant Jr., 51, departed this life on Saturday,

BARBARA ANN TAYLOR Barbara Ann Taylor entered eternal rest on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014.

Born on Aug. 20, 1955, in Sumter County, she was a daughter of Mary Ann Watson Taylor and the late Clyde Dean Taylor.

The family is receiving relatives and friends at the home of her sister, Sonya (Willie) Phillips, 660 Sierra St. Funeral plans will be announced by Community Funeral Home of Sumter.

ARLENE S. ROHL MANNING — Arlene Smith Rohl, 75, of Manning, wife of Arlen W. Rohl, died on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014, at her home.

Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. on Wednesday at New Covenant Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Marcus Van Vlake officiating.

Burial will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday at Andersonville National Cemetery in Andersonville, Georgia.

Arlene was born in Oglethorpe, Georgia, a daughter of the late Jake O. and Montez Justice Smith. She was a member of Hope Lutheran Church.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by a daughter, Jennifer (Charlie) Barrett of Manning; a son, Jeff (Kim) Rohl of Holly Hill; a sister, Helen (Cliff) Whatley of Mt. Pleasant; and granddaughters, Katie Rohl and Faythe Barrett.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Avinger Funeral Home, Holly Hill.

Memorials may be made to Embrace Hospice, 183 W. Evans St., Suite 400, Florence, SC 29501.

The family would like to thank Tyson Robinson, Shirley McBride, Kathy Murdock, Rhonda Brown and Dr. Robert Eagerton for the care of Arlene. www.avingerfh.com

VERNESE T. EVANS MANNING — Vernese Taylor Evans, 76, widow of Frank Evans Sr., died on Monday, Dec. 8, 2014, at Clarendon Memorial Hospital, Manning.

She was born on Sept. 3, 1938, in Manning, a daughter of the late Henry and Bertha Froneberoj Taylor.

The family is receiving friends at the home of her daughter, Julia Evans Brown, 236 N. Church St., Manning.

These services have been entrusted to Samuels Funeral Home LLC of Manning.

SHAW

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803.499.4567

1890 PEACH ORCHARD ROAD • SUMTER BEHIND SHAW AFB

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 09, 2014

THE ITEM

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803-774-1234

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

CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS Lost & Found Found, male puppy 4100 block Camden Hwy call to ID 803-499-9832

In Memory

Help Wanted Full-Time

Unfurnished Homes

LARGE GARAGE SALE 1st & 3rd Weekend Tables $2

STC Now Hiring Diesel Mechanic Qualified candidates must have: •Valid driver license •High School Diploma or GED •Three years or more of diesel mechanical experience •Must provide tools / picture at interview

3BR 2BA 1900 sq. ft, large fenced backyard $950 Mo + $950 Dep 840-0207

FLEA MARKET BY SHAW AFB

Open every weekend.

905-4242

For Sale or Trade

Bird's Towing & Lock Out 24 Hour Service 803-834-BIRD (2473) TAXES Income - Payroll - Sales Same day service. 507 Broad St. Locally owned. Tesco 773-1515

Lawn Service Four Seasons Lawn Care Serving Sumter for almost 20 yrs!

Free est. 494-9169/468-4008 Lifestyles Lawn Service Holiday Clean-up Specials!

Leaf removal, hedge trimming, pine straw instal. Mil.-Sen. Disc.!

Call Erik 803-968-8655

Roofing Robert's Metal Roofing 35 Years Experience. 18 colors & 45 year warranty. Financing available.

Expert installation. Long list of satisfied customers.

Call 803-837-1549.

Tree Service A Notch Above Tree Care Full quality service low rates, lic./ins., free est BBB accredited 983-9721

STATE TREE SERVICE Worker's Comp & General liability insurance. Top quality service, lowest prices. 803-494-5175 or 803-491-5154 www.statetree.net

PETS & ANIMALS Dogs

EOE and Drug Free Workplace Contact - Pat Joyner 803-775-1002 x107 Roper Staffing is now accepting application(s) for the following position(s):

3 Plots in Evergreen Cemetery $4000 for all 3. All are together. Call 803 468-1380

·Insurance agent (P/C Life/Health & Auto) ·Industrial Electrical Technician-w/ PLC programming ·Welders (Mig/Tig) ·Maintenance Technician (Electrical/ Mechanical) ·Machine Operators (Heavy Lifting/ Schematics/Blue Prints/Micrometers) ·Senior Accountant (B.A. Accounting) Industrial process + ·Process Engineer (Chemical / Science Degree) ·Warehouse/Material Handler/ Logistics Clerk- Computer Literacy ·Executive Assistant (Microsoft Suite Proficiency Req.)

Golden Kernel Pecan Co. 1214 S. Guignard Dr. Sumter 803-968-9432 We buy pecans, We sell Pecan halves & Pieces, Chocolate, Sugarfree Chocolate, Butter Roasted, Sugar & Spiced, Prailine, Honey Glazed, English Toffee Gift Packages available . M-F 9-5 Sat 9-1

Business Services

STC offers competitive salary and benefits

American Red Cross New Crop Variety Shelled Pecans 803-775-2363

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

Guarantee 464-5439 or 469-7311

BUSINESS SERVICES

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.

Garage, Yard & Estate Sales

Like New Pool Table 8 1/2 Ft X 5 ft $500 Call 775-7123 9-5:30 or 468-0280

Savondria N. Shannon 03/31/1980 - 12/09/2005 It's been nine years but I still try to fight the tears. I know in life we must go on, as you watch from God's throne. Sadly missed, Family & Friends

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.

Hickory & Oak firewood. Seasoned/Green $65 Delivered. Notch Above Tree Service. 983-9721 Expert Tech, New & used heat pumps & A/C. Will install/repair, warranty; Compressor & labor $600.

Call 803-968-9549 or 843-992-2364 Firewood for Sale Will Deliver. Call 803 651-8672 Set of 4 Blk Factory Rims & Clear Top for a Grand Sport Corvette. Call for details and price 803-968-2459

EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted Full-Time RN/CNA's w/hospice experience needed ASAP. Please send all responses to Box 380 c//o The Item, PO Box 1677 Sumter SC 29151 Established Heating and Air Conditioning Company looking for a Laborer/helper for the installation dept. Employer needs to have valid driver’s license, able to lift more than 10 lbs., work well with others and experience with duct work would be good but not necessary. Mail resume to PO Box 2378, Sumter 29151 or apply in person 1640 Suber Street, Sumter SC. LOCAL CORPORATION seeking upbeat, highly motivated and energetic individual for Full Time Position. Must have proficient computer skills, merchandizing & management skills, be able to work well in a team-oriented environment, be adaptable to a flexible work schedule, possess excellent communication skills and have the ability to multi-task. Please send Resume' to P-379 c//o The Item, PO Box 1677 Sumter SC 29151

NEW APPLICATION TIMES: Mon.-Wed. 8:30 am - 10:00 am and again at 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm. Please call the Sumter office 803-938-8100 to inquire about what you will need to bring with you when registering.

Experienced Activities Professional Covenant Place of Sumter is looking to fill the position of Activities Professional. This position requires a minimum of 1 yr. of dementia care experience in a Long Term Care facility. Apply in person to: Covenant Place 2825 Carter Road Sumter, SC 29150 EOE Dental Assistant, who is caring, compassionate and loves working with kids! Must be experienced and team-oriented, for a fun loving, fast-paced pediatric dental office.

Excellent pay for Dental experience.

Fax resume to 803-934-9943.

Locally established Heating & Air condition Co. looking for Exp. Service Tech. Needs to have good driving record. Pay range from $33k-$46k a year plus health insurance, retirement, bonus and commission available. Apply in person at 1640 Suber Street.

Help Wanted Part-Time $$$ AVON $$$ FREE TRAINING! 803-422-5555

RENTALS

Laborers and Masons needed for Shaw AFB Project Contact: sharon.colaconstructors@gmail.com

ROOMS FOR RENT, $100- $125 /wkly. All utilities & cable included.

803-938-2709

Farm Products Horse Hay for sale. Tight sq. bails $5. Heavy rnd. bails $40.

Corn oats hog feed. Call Warren 843-319-1884

3Bd 2Ba MH near Pinewood New carpet & appliances, no pets $500 mth + dep. Call 843-884-0346 Oaklawn MHP: 2 BR M.H.'s, water /sewer/garbage pk-up incl'd. RV parking avail. Call 803-494-8350

Ribbon Rd., PInewood 3 Br, 2 Ba DW, stove, refrigerator, $700 mo.+dep. 803-506-4600

STATEBURG COURTYARD 2 & 3 BRs 803-494-4015

Commercial Rentals 1012 Pocalla Rd. (Old Parts Connection bldg.) 2,000 sq ft heated w/ 2 offices, 3 baths, showroom/lobby, 3,000 sq ft warehouse space. $1,350 mo/dep. 803-775-2344.

REAL ESTATE Homes for Sale THE WILLOWS: 1029 Cutleaf 2/2, all appl, washer/dryer.

Call 803-469-9381 For Rent or Sale 821 Holiday Drive 2BR 1BA possible owner financing. 803-983-7064.

Tudor Place: 2241 Preot 3/3, all appl., washer/dryer, new roof, h.w. heater, carpet, vinyl and paint. Call 803-469-9381

Manufactured Housing LOW CREDIT SCORE? Been turned down for bad credit? Come try us, we do our own financing. We have 2-3-4 bedroom homes. For more information, call 843-389-4215.

TRANSPORTATION Vans / Trucks / Buses Commercial buses. Perfect for church or daycare. 5 to choose from.

Affordable prices, financing available. Call American Auto Sales 803-775-2344 or come by 408 S. Lafayette.

Autos For Sale Crown Victoria Police Interceptors Over 15 in stock from years 2000 2008. Affordable prices & pymts.

775-2344 or come by American Auto Sales. 408 S. Lafayette St

LEGAL NOTICES Beer & Wine License

protesting resides in the same county where the proposed place of business is located or within five miles of the business; and (5) the name of the applicant and the address of the premises to be licensed. Protests must be mailed to: S.C. Department of Revenue, ATTN: ABL, P.O. Box 125, Columbia, South Carolina 29214; or Faxed to: (803) 896-0110.

Notice Of Application

Notice is hereby given that John Irick intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a license permit that will allow the sale ON premises consumption of Beer & Wine or Liquor at 1581 Britton Rd. Sumter, SC 29153. To object to the issuance of this permit / license, written protest must be postmarked no later than Dec. 17, 2014. For a protest to be valid, it must be in writing, and should include the following information: (1) the name, address and telephone number of the person filing the protest; (2) the specific reasons why the application should be denied; (3) that the person protesting is willing to attend a hearing (if one is requested by the applicant); (4) that the person protesting resides in the same county where the proposed place of business is located or within five miles of the business; and (5) the name of the applicant and the address of the premises to be licensed. Protests must be mailed to: S.C. Department of Revenue, ATTN: ABL, P.O. Box 125, Columbia, South Carolina 29214; or Faxed to: (803) 896-0110.

Summons & Notice

Notice Of Application

Notice is hereby given that Trupti LLC DBA: Short Trip #17 intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a license permit that will allow the sale OFF premises consumption of Beer & Wine at 404 S. Lafayette Dr. Sumter, SC 29150. To object to the issuance of this permit / license, written protest must be postmarked no later than December 17, 2014. For a protest to be valid, it must be in writing, and should include the following information: (1) the name, address and telephone number of the person filing the protest; (2) the specific reasons why the application should be denied; (3) that the person protesting is willing to attend a hearing (if one is requested by the applicant); (4) that the person

SUMMONS IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT 2014-ES-43-673 STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF SUMTER Evelyn Jenkins, Petitioner, Vs. Janifer Baker and any known or Unknown heirs of James Clifford Jenkins, IN THE MATTER OF: James Clifford Jenkins DECEDENT YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to Answer the Petition in this action, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your Answer to the said Petition on the Petitioner or her attorney, Larry C. Weston, Esquire, at his office, 109 North Main Street, Sumter, South Carolina, within thirty (30) days after the service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service, and if you fail to Answer the Petition within the time aforesaid, the Petitioner in this action will apply to the Court for the relief demanded in the Petition.

NOTICE

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• Display Ads • Special Sections • Niche Publications • Online 2 Rooms, 1 ba, kit., over garage, priv. entrance, $625/mo + $400/dep incl elec & water 803-491-7832

MERCHANDISE

Mobile Home Rentals

WALMART/SHAW 16.6 ACRES PAVED, ELEC. WATER $2350/ACRE 713-870-0216

Beer & Wine License

Rooms for Rent

Need OTR Truck Drivers. 2yrs exp.

Good driving records. Dependable & willing to work. Paid weekly. Paid Vacations. Call 888-991-1005

Lab mix puppies, 2 months old, 4 females - $50 each, 2 males, $75 each. Call 469-8727 after 5 pm.

3BR 2.5 BA in Twin Lakes $1000 mo.+ dep. 1yr lease. Call 775-7326 or 775-1201.

For Sale Nice 4 Br 2 Ba D/W MH w/ dinning rm, den w fire place, bonus rm. c//h//a, new carpet & paint, brick underpinning, lg fenced lot 803-983-0408

Night Security PRN/Weekend Night Security needed in a skilled nursing facility for 8pm to 8am shift. Position consists of security walk through and light environmental maintenance.

Experience preferred but not required. Apply in person to: Covenant Place 2825 Carter Road Sumter, SC 29150 EOE

OBEDIENCE TRAINING Basic Commands, Behavior problem solving, Advanced training. Ask about our vacation package. Call 803-972-0738 or 972-7597

Rent- 3BR/1BA Recently renovated on W Hampton St $850 Mo+Dep. 803-464-5872

Land & Lots for Sale

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

775-0575 Studio/1 Bedroom apartments available EHO Oakland Plantation Apts.

5501 Edgehill Rd 499-2157 2 BR apartments avail.

Applications accepted Mon., Wed. & Fri. 8 am - 4:30 pm.

MARK PEKURI MULTIMEDIA SPECIALIST CALL TODAY

803•464•8917

mark@theitem.com

It’s Mayo’s “More for your money Christmas Sale”!

Buy 1 Regular Priced Suit, Receive 2nd Suit of Equal Value FREE! Great Selection & Savings!

SHIRTS, TIES, PANTS & SHOES Buy 1, Get a 2nd HALF PRICE! IN-STORE ALTERATIONS, FOR THOSE LAST MINUTE OCCASIONS

MAYO’S SUIT CITY 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

B8

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INDIVIDUAL SHEETS Flat or Fitted Twin .....................$3 each 29 Progress St. - Sumter Full ...................... $3 each Queen.................. $4 each 775-8366 Ext. 37 Store Hours Mon. - Sat. • 9:30 - 5:00 Closed Sunday Summons & Notice TO THE DEFENDANT ABOVE NAMED: TAKE NOTICE that the Summons in the above mentioned action, together with the Complaint, was filed with the Sumter County Probate Court on the 25th day of November, 2014. The Guardian ad Litem for any unknown heirs of the Estate of James Clifford Jenkins in this matter is Garryl L. Deas, Esquire, Deas Law Firm, 109 N. Main Street, Sumter, South Carolina.

Larry C. Weston, Esquire Attorney for the Petitioner 109 North Main Street Post Office Box 1571 Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 778-2421

Estate Notice Sumter County

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES

Persons having claim against the following estates are required to deliver or mail their claims to the indicated Personal Representatives, appointed to administer these estates, and to file their claims on Form #371PC with the Probate Court of Sumter County Courthouse, N. Main Street, Sumter, SC, 29150, on or before the date that is eight months after the date of the first publication of this Notice to Creditors, (unless previously barred by operation of Section 62-3-803), or such persons shall be forever barred as to heir claims. All claims are required to be presented in written statements, indicating the name and the address of the claimant, the basis of the claim, the amount claimed, the date when the claim will become due, the nature of any uncertainty as to the amount claimed and the date when due, and a description of any security as to the claim.

Estate:

Henry A. Gee #2014ES4300574-2

Personal Representative

Beth Brown C/O Paul M. Fata Attorney at Law PO Box 568 Bishopville, SC 29010 Estate:

James Montalbano Jr. #2014ES4300678

Personal Representative

Marsha M. Aull 3085 Lowfalls Lane Sumter, SC 29150 Estate:

Holmes Smith #2014ES4300667

Personal Representative

Tonia Smith C/O John C. Land, III Attorney at Law PO Box 138 Manning, SC 29102 Estate:

Paula Price Welch #2014ES4300661

Personal Representative

Dianna Welch 1070 Rockdale Blvd.

Sumter, SC 29154

ASSORTED THROW PILLOWS

$3.00 each

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 09, 2014

DECEMBER CLEARANCE SALE!!

HURRY IN WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!

MICROFIBER

SHEET SETS

Twin .....................$5 each Full ...................... $5 each Queen.................. $8 each King .................... $8 each LACE PANELS... $5.00 each

Estate Notice Sumter County

Estate Notice Sumter County

Estate Notice Sumter County

Estate Notice Sumter County

Estate Notice Sumter County

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES

Persons having claim against the following estates are required to deliver or mail their claims to the indicated Personal Representatives, appointed to administer these estates, and to file their claims on Form #371PC with the Probate Court of Sumter County Courthouse, N. Main Street, Sumter, SC, 29150, on or before the date that is eight months after the date of the first publication of this Notice to Creditors, (unless previously barred by operation of Section 62-3-803), or such persons shall be forever barred as to heir claims. All claims are required to be presented in written statements, indicating the name and the address of the claimant, the basis of the claim, the amount claimed, the date when the claim will become due, the nature of any uncertainty as to the amount claimed and the date when due, and a description of any security as to the claim.

Estate:

Willie Jackson #2014ES4300656

Personal Representative

Persons having claim against the following estates are required to deliver or mail their claims to the indicated Personal Representatives, appointed to administer these estates, and to file their claims on Form #371PC with the Probate Court of Sumter County Courthouse, N. Main Street, Sumter, SC, 29150, on or before the date that is eight months after the date of the first publication of this Notice to Creditors, (unless previously barred by operation of Section 62-3-803), or such persons shall be forever barred as to heir claims. All claims are required to be presented in written statements, indicating the name and the address of the claimant, the basis of the claim, the amount claimed, the date when the claim will become due, the nature of any uncertainty as to the amount claimed and the date when due, and a description of any security as to the claim.

Estate:

Gladys Thomas C/O B. Scott Suggs Attorney at Law PO Drawer 591 Florence, SC 29503

Barbara Jackson 1501 Radical Road Sumter, SC 29153 Estate:

Rosa Hatfield #2014ES4300654

Personal Representative

Ernest Hatfield, Jr. 3870 Mountain Way Cove Snellville, GA 30039 Estate:

Carol Burr #2014ES4300660

Personal Representative

Martha Loretta Burr C/O Kenneth R. Young, Jr. Attorney at Law 23 West Calhoun Street Sumter, SC 29150 Estate:

Helen H. McLeod #2014ES4300682

Estate:

Estate:

Donnie J. Stone #2014ES4300681

Personal Representative

Gayle B. Blanchette' 381 Mooneyham Road Sumter, SC 29153

James Rodney Weston #2014ES4300685

Personal Representative

Tarnissaya S. Josey C/O Attorney at Law Sharon Clark PO Box 880 Sumter, SC 29151 Estate:

Estate:

James W. Singleton #2014ES4300658

Personal Representative

Barbara Bolden King C/O Ruben L. Gray Attorney at Law PO Box 2636 Sumter, SC 29151 Estate:

Lucille Herring #2014ES4300680

Personal Representative

Persons having claim against the following estates are required to deliver or mail their claims to the indicated Personal Representatives, appointed to administer these estates, and to file their claims on Form #371PC with the Probate Court of Sumter County Courthouse, N. Main Street, Sumter, SC, 29150, on or before the date that is eight months after the date of the first publication of this Notice to Creditors, (unless previously barred by operation of Section 62-3-803), or such persons shall be forever barred as to heir claims. All claims are required to be presented in written statements, indicating the name and the address of the claimant, the basis of the claim, the amount claimed, the date when the claim will become due, the nature of any uncertainty as to the amount claimed and the date when due, and a description of any security as to the claim.

Estate:

Raymond Johnson C/O Paul A. Weissenstein, Jr. PO Box 2446 Sumter, SC 29151 Estate:

Hursel Bruce Williamson, Sr. #2014ES4300653

Edwina Powell Hodge Green #2014ES4300677

Personal Representative

Mattie Yvonne Powell Hodge 2460 Highway 521 South Sumter, SC 29153 Estate:

Warren M. Williams #2014ES4300659

Personal Representative

Philip Lee Williams 590 Adger Lane Sumter, SC 29154

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John F. Criss, Jr. 710 Merriwether Drive North Augusta, SC 29841

Persons having claim against the following estates are required to deliver or mail their claims to the indicated Personal Representatives, appointed to administer these estates, and to file their claims on Form #371PC with the Probate Court of Sumter County Courthouse, N. Main Street, Sumter, SC, 29150, on or before the date that is eight months after the date of the first publication of this Notice to Creditors, (unless previously barred by operation of Section 62-3-803), or such persons shall be forever barred as to heir claims. All claims are required to be presented in written statements, indicating the name and the address of the claimant, the basis of the claim, the amount claimed, the date when the claim will become due, the nature of any uncertainty as to the amount claimed and the date when due, and a description of any security as to the claim.

Estate:

Bernice Perry #2014ES4300679

Personal Representative

Amelia Geddis-Porter 601 Bur Oak Lane Columbia, SC 29229 Estate:

Willie L. Dupree #2014ES4300668

Personal Representative

Doris J. Dupree 224 Wildwood Avenue Sumter, SC 29154

LOCAL DRIVERS WANTED

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The Perfect Housewarming Gift The Sumter Item is locally owned and run.

We’re part of this community and we believe in Sumter.

John Frederick Criss #2014ES4300650

Personal Representative

George Scott Waite, Jr. 1020 Santa Fe Trail Sumter, SC 29154

Bryan Douglas Williamson 108 Turkey Creek Court Lexington, SC 29073 Estate:

Mary E. Hunter #2014ES4300684

Personal Representative

Personal Representative

Personal Representative

Gayle B. Blanchette' 381 Mooneyham Road Sumter, SC 29153

Vincent O'Mar Thomas #2014ES4300675

Personal Representative

Persons having claim against the following estates are required to deliver or mail their claims to the indicated Personal Representatives, appointed to administer these estates, and to file their claims on Form #371PC with the Probate Court of Sumter County Courthouse, N. Main Street, Sumter, SC, 29150, on or before the date that is eight months after the date of the first publication of this Notice to Creditors, (unless previously barred by operation of Section 62-3-803), or such persons shall be forever barred as to heir claims. All claims are required to be presented in written statements, indicating the name and the address of the claimant, the basis of the claim, the amount claimed, the date when the claim will become due, the nature of any uncertainty as to the amount claimed and the date when due, and a description of any security as to the claim.

CONTACT Pat Joyner at 803-775-1002 Ext. 107 OR visit our website to download a job application and fax to (954) 653-1195 www.sumtertransport.com 170 S. Lafayette Drive Sumter, SC 29150 EOE

20 N. Magnolia St. | Sumter, SC 803.774.1200 www.theitem.com