February 18, 2016 by The Sumter Item

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Recording shows Manners aware of arson case

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BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com The second day of the Joseph Manners murder trial started Wednesday morning in Courtroom 3B at the Sumter County Judicial Center, with Judge Jeffery Young presiding. Manners faces two counts of murder and an arson charge for his alleged involvement in the June 1, 2013, deaths of his grandparents, James and Joann Topper, when their Barnwell Drive house was set on fire. Assistant Solicitor John Meadors spent most of Wednesday establishing the severity of a blaze and the state that James and Joann Topper were found and Joseph Manners’ coherent state of mind after he was arrested. The photos Meadors showed to the jury were all taken by Julian Blair, a fire and arson investigator with Sumter County Sheriff’s Office in 2013, who served as the prosecution’s first witness Wednesday. Blair said Joann Topper’s body was found in the kitchen on the ground floor of the house and James Topper’s body was later found on the bottom floor of the house, near the stairs. Based on his findings, Blair determined that the fire started in the room where James Topper’s body was found, although the exact point where the fire started could not be confirmed. Defense Attorney Timothy Griffith asked Blair if it were possible that the fire started on the upper level of the house. Blair said it is possible but based on the photos and his observations, the fire started somewhere in the room on the bottom level. Agent Brian Wright with South Carolina Law Enforcement Division’s arson unit said he did a walk though of the house with his accelerant detection canine on June 5, 2013, during the execution of a search warrant. The dog indicated several spots where an accelerant had been used in the room where James Topper was found. Capt. Brian Christmas with Sumter Fire Department said when investigators raised James Topper’s body there was a “sudden rush of smell suspected to be gasoline.” Later, Dr. Janice Ross, the pathologist in Newberry County who performed the autopsies on James and Joann Topper on June 3, 2013, was brought in as a witness on behalf of the prosecution. She said both James and Joann Topper suffered fourth-degree burns to approximately 80 percent of their bodies. Ross determined that Joann Topper died of

KEITH GEDAMKE / THE SUMTER ITEM

Donald Trump points out one of his supporters during his campaign rally at the Sumter County Civic Center on Wednesday.

Firebrand GOP presidential candidate draws big crowd BY JIM HILLEY jim@theitem.com

SEE MANNERS, PAGE A10

KEITH GEDAMKE / THE SUMTER ITEM

If you are hoping for specific plans on how to beat ISIS, bring back jobs from overseas or stop illegal immigration, you are probably not a Donald Trump fan. If you believe what this country needs is a president with a forceful personality, oodles of charisma and barrels of self-confidence, you just might be a Trump fan. A full house at Sumter County Civic Center hung on Trump’s every line, often breaking into chants and cheering as he peddled

A photo of the burning structure is part of the evidence against Joseph Manners in his ongoing trial.

SEE TRUMP, PAGE A10

KEITH GEDAMKE / THE SUMTER ITEM

Chuck Duncan, from Charleston, and Garrett Bowling, from Lexington, who was wearing his Super Trump cape, compare selfies while waiting for Donald Trump to make his appearance at Sumter County Civic Center on Wednesday.

Mayor: Sumter needs technical high school BY JIM HILLEY jim@theitem.com The next piece of the development puzzle in Sumter is a technical high school, Mayor Joe McElveen told attendees at a Building Industry Association “Know & Grow” lunch at the South Carolina Electric & Gas building on North Pike on Wednesday. McElveen said Sumter has been able to raise its per capita income thanks in large part to training programs such as Central Carolina Technical College’s nursing and welding programs; but young people need to begin

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learning technical skills at a younger age. “We have got to have a tech high school,” he said. “We have to have the (General Assembly) delegation on board, the city and county councils on board and, most of all, the board of education on board.” He said he would love to see a technical high school built right next to CCCT’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Center. Economic Development Board Chair Jay Schwedler said having a workforce available for companies interested in coming to Sumter is extremely

important. “Workforce development and economic development — you can’t have one without the other,” he said. Schwedler and McElveen said a program allowing graduating high school students to attend CCCT for two years withSCHWEDLER out paying tuition is a huge development. “Technology in this country is the future,” Schwedler said. “People will not make stuff; robots will make stuff. “In the past, we needed people to

DEATHS, B5 Ronald S. Roberson Vermell Edwards Elizabeth F. Watson Tommie Lee Bradley Lachelle R. June Herbert Howard Joyce K. Allen

Dora J. Moses Bertha Lee Lowrimore Lue Ethel C. Drayton Mya Elizabeth Bell Larry Blanding Louise English-Moses George Hampton

stamp out that part. In the future, we need people who can fix that robot that stamps out that part.” He said CCCT’s mechatronics program is a great way to give people training for the skills of the future, but more needs to be done. “The outcome we want to see is a technical high school,” he said. He said per capita income is the best measuring stick for economic growth and Sumter has done remarkably well in that area. “We are up 44 percent since 2006,”

SEE MAYOR, PAGE A10

WEATHER, A12

INSIDE

ANOTHER NICE DAY

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Sun returns today; a little cooler and chilly and clear tonight. HIGH 56, LOW 31

Classifieds B7 Comics B6 Opinion A11

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

THE SUMTER ITEM

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Police seek assistance in finding teen

Festive atmosphere awaited Trump

FROM STAFF REPORTS Sumter Police Department is seeking help in locating Dominique McCray, 17. McCray’s mother reported him missing on Feb. 6. He was last seen leaving the residence at 417 Silver St. in Sumter on Jan. MCCRAY 31 after an argument with his mother. He reportedly made contact with his father, but efforts to reach him by phone have been unsuccessful. None of his family members or friends have reported hearing from or seeing him, according to a release from the department. McCray is described as 5 feet 11 inches tall and weights about 150 pounds. He has black hair, brown eyes and pierced ears. He also has a tattoo on his right arm with the word “Faith.” Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to call the Sumter Police Department at (803) 436-2700. Tips can also be given anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (803) 436-2718 or 1-888-CRIMESC.

KEITH GEDAMKE / THE SUMTER ITEM

Kaylie Kilpatrick, left, and James Wesley Hanna came from Florence to illustrate their Trump support Wednesday. JIM HILLEY / THE SUMTER ITEM

Linda Farley, who describes herself as a Kentucky grandma, is a Trump fan but says she supports Sen. Ted Cruz.

By 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, a line of people had wrapped around Sumter County Civic Center for the Trump for President Rally. More than 500 people were in line, and the line was swelling quickly when people got off work at 5 p.m. Security for the event was as tight as when President Obama visited Columbia in 2015. But it was generally a festive mood, with some people even tailgating with hot dogs, although they were not cooked on site. Some people were selling Trump T-shirts and hats, and volunteers were placing Trump stickers on people’s clothing. There were even some people dressed with unique Trump hairpieces. While some people might have been at the event because of Trump’s celebrity status and hair-raising experiences, others were actually there to hear his stand on the issues. James Johnson of Rock Hill said he likes Trump’s ideas about veterans. While waiting to get in Wednesday, he said, “I like his stand on immigration.” Sandra Johnson, who was with James, added, “We must take care of Americans first.” Harry Rogers of Manning expressed what many people who are voting for Trump say. “I don’t want to elect another politician,” Rogers said. “Everybody else besides Ben Carson and Carly Fiorina are politicians, but they don’t stand a chance. Trump stands a chance.” Linda Farley, who describes herself as a Kentucky grandma, is a Trump fan but says she supports Sen. Ted Cruz. She arrived with a car with virtually every inch of it making a political statement. Meanwhile, Holly Jordan, a University of South Carolina student from Charleston, said she’s not sure who she will vote for, but it will definitely be a Republican. Reporters Jim Hilley and Rick Carpenter contributed to this story.

DOT roundabout planned at Lewis Road and Kinsgbury Drive

Red Cross in need of home after losing space in flood

BY ADRIENNE SARVIS adrienne@theitem.com

BY IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com

During its regular meeting Tuesday, Sumter City Council approved a resolution regarding a South Carolina Department of Transportation project that will include a roundabout at Kingsbury Drive and Lewis Road. Assistant City Manager of Public Services Al Harris said this is a South Carolina Department of Transportation project, and the city will need to move its waterlines while the project takes place. In approving the resolution, city council also approved a $99,060 bid from B & B Construction of Sumter to move the city’s waterlines. Harris said there will be no cost to the city because this is a DOT project. Council also approved first reading of an ordinance to annex two parcels of land, 3.34 acres, at 1177 Broad St. Sumter City Manager Deron McCormick said a restaurant and retail space have been proposed for the site. Later, council recognized the 2015 recipients of the American Legion Post 15 Firefighter of the Year and

Police Officer of the Year awards, Lt. Will Glover and Lt. Truman Duggin, respectively. Sumter Fire Chief Karl Ford told council that Glover began his career in 2005 as a volunteer firefighter with the city of Camden. After completing approximately 2,500 hours of training, Glover began working at Sumter Fire Department in 2008. Police Chief Russell Roark III said Duggin spent 47 years in public service, serving in the military and with law enforcement. While he was with the department, Duggin was responsible for the care of evidence and eventually developed a best practice for evidence for city police, Roark told council. The police chief also credited Duggin with developing a curriculum and kit that would allow officers to process crime scenes on their own without calling in crime scene investigators to every scene. In other news, city council approved a resolution authorizing a mutual aid agreement between Sumter Police Department and Camden Police Department.

The organization that provides emergency services to Sumter residents is now in need itself. The American Red Cross Sandhills Chapter lost its home on North Guignard Drive during the October flood and has since been operating out of space at First Baptist Church, 107 E. Liberty St. “They’ve been very generous and wonderful to us,” said Red Cross Communications Officer Jennifer Heisler, “but we need to find a new, permanent office in about a month.” Heisler said the Red Cross needs about 1,500 square feet in order to have enough space for volunteers to work and for Red Cross workers “to teach classes and to hold

blood drives. We have more than 200 volunteers locally.” “The most important thing is the safety of our staff (and volunteers),” she said. “We’ve been able to continue to provide services, thanks to First Baptist, to respond to fires and assist families. We’re focusing on ensuring clients with emergencies get what they need. “We’re hoping to find something the community will let us use or even another organization that has space we can share.” The Sandhills Chapter of Red Cross serves Sumter, Lee, Kershaw and Clarendon counties. If you can help, or for more information, call Nancy Cataldo, director of the Sandhills Chapter, at (803) 201-6457.

Kershaw County sheriff asks for bond for man in teenager’s fatal shooting CAMDEN (AP) — The Kershaw County sheriff says a man who shot and killed a teen who was stealing items from his truck should be released on his own recognizance as he awaits trial on a voluntary manslaughter charge. Several media outlets re-

ported that Sheriff Jim Matthews told a judge at a bond hearing Wednesday he is a friend of 49-year-old Jimmy Methe. The judge says he will decide later this week whether to give Methe bail. Matthews said last weekend that Methe caught

17-year-old Brandon Spencer and another unidentified person stealing from his truck and shot at them as they ran away. Spencer was hit in the head and died. The sheriff says deadly force is only justified in South Carolina when someone’s life is threatened.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Patriot Hall exhibition a ‘magnificent collection’ Although you might have missed opening night with the exciting drumbeats and chants by the Keepers of the Word, an American Indian heritage intertribal group from the Lowlands comprising several tribes such as the Comanche and Cherokee, there is plenty of energy and excitement in Gallery 135’s current exhibit “our native spirit: the art of tari federer and dot goodwin.” Opening night was a special opportunity to meet both artists and to share their intense enthusiasm and respect for American Indian culture. Goodwin, who has a studio she opened in 1984 in Camden, and Federer, who also works and exhibits there, exude delight and dedication when discussing their connection to this culture. The show is a magnificent collection of themes, mediums and art. In Goodwin’s “Our Native Spirit” she confesses it “reflects an honor and holiness that I feel about the life I am living … ,” an attitude acquired throughout a life enriched by participation in sacred ceremonies making her “heart be deeper and more symbolic feeling.” Her immense statue “Wisdom Keeper” features an owl face with hypnotic, glaring eyes and a costume intensifying the object’s aura. Nearby, her “Inception” combines a blue, three-dimensional piece that uses delicately curved wings, a sacred center Tree of Life and a translucent cloth overlay to create a spirit calming and serene. Her original castings, like her mixed media “Talisman” and “Winged Prayers” with its carved peace pipe, feather and bison, all surrounded by decoupage Indian-themed cloth and “Tails of the West” with its layers of color leading from the horses to the immense mountain beyond,

reveal careful, meticulous handling of color and materials. In her insightful notes for the mixed media “Ka’Wak,” Goodwin emphasizes the impact of the spirituality: “Lightning strikes and is waking up our life force to become the arc of energy as we balance ourselves.” She combines layers of the colors blue, turquoise, the gold flash of lightning — to highlight the purple form, for “We are awakening and present … where Spirit meets us.” Similarly in “Blue Dawn” she uses the two horses to represent “polarity… running together in the same direction on their shield … the three of three —Water (feminine), Fire (masculine) balanced with the Spirit.” All of her pieces are beautifully developed and filled with a sense of love and respect for the culture and its impact on her personality. She seems filled with contentment, grounded yet anticipatory. Similarly, Federer’s work reflects her lifelong attachment to American Indian history and culture. “Aho Mitakuye Oyasin” celebrates the “simple, yet profound statement of the Lakota Nations” … that “all my relations spoke to invite and acknowledge all relatives to the moment.” There is an awareness that Americans see the connection as blood relations, while the Indian culture senses that “other than human could be a relative” and that if we “lived by this meaning of ‘relative’ what a different world we would be living in.” She continues the theme of harmony in the statement by Silver Wolf Walks Alone: “Truth does not owe homage to humans. Humans owe homage to Truth.” Her entries reveal her skill with a variety of mediums. The powerful “Medoc Moun-

USDA new rules would increase food stamp access to healthy foods WASHINGTON (AP) — The Agriculture Department unveiled new rules on Tuesday that would force retailers who accept food stamps to stock a wider variety of healthy foods or face the loss of business as consumers shop elsewhere. The proposed rules are designed to ensure that the more than 46 million Americans who use food stamps have better access to healthy foods although they don’t dictate what people buy or eat. People using food stamp dollars could still purchase as much junk food as they wanted, but they would at least have more options in the store to buy fruits, vegetables, dairy, meats and bread. “USDA is committed to expanding access for SNAP participants to the types of foods that are important to a healthy diet,” Kevin Concannon, USDA undersecretary for food, nutrition and consumer services, said in a statement. “This proposed rule ensures that retailers who accept SNAP benefits offer a variety of products to support healthy choices for those participating in the program.” In 2014, Congress required the Agriculture Department to develop regulations to make sure that stores that accept food stamp dollars, now called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, stock a wider array of healthy food choices. Under current rules, SNAP retailers must stock at least three varieties of foods in each of four food groups: fruits and vegetables, dairy, breads and cereals, and meats, poultry and fish. The new rules would require the retailers to stock seven varieties in each food group, and at least three of the

food groups would have to include perishable items. In all, the rules would require stores to stock at least 168 items that USDA considers healthy. The proposal would also require that retailers have enough in stock of each item so that the foods would be continuously available. The rules could mean that fewer convenience stores qualify to be SNAP retailers. The convenience store industry has argued that it often operates the only stores that serve certain neighborhoods and at certain times, like overnight. Concannon said the department would try to ensure that the rules don’t affect SNAP recipients’ access to food retailers, and the department may consider waiving the proposed requirements in some areas. The rules come as a key House Republican is pushing for drug tests for food stamp recipients and new cuts to the program. Alabama Rep. Robert Aderholt, the chairman of the subcommittee that oversees USDA spending, introduced a bill last Thursday that would allow states to require drug testing. The move is designed to help states such as Wisconsin, where Gov. Scott Walker has sued the federal government, to permit screening.

tain,” a stoneware clay form, is not glazed to show the viewer “where the object came from.” The size, fern motif and wild horse on the top — its mane flowing in the captured moment in time and reminiscent of her many horses through the years — contrast with her delicately textured “Thunderbird” bowl and the strong lines of the stoneware clay lamp “The Pueblo.” Her weaving has its own interesting story. Before she was allowed to study weaving with the Navajo women, she had to teach herself the basics. In the tapestry “Spirit Bear” her texture is rough, masculine. Her design for “Homage to Grandmother” was presented three times before the Navajo weavers would allow her to try it because it was so intricate. The surface is smooth (female), and the technique very spiritual. Navajos weave on the vertical loom: The top represents the sky, the bottom Mother Earth, and the middle threads the child of creation. Symbolically the weaver cuts a small piece of the cloth hanging below as a keepsake to represent the umbilical cord. Her completed Navajo-inspired tapestry was dedicated by the native weavers and the medicine man in the 500-year-old cabin in the nearby photograph “Grandmother’s Hogan.” Other photographs, like the complex photomontage “So the People May Live,” reveal Federer’s long passion for the story of the Wounded Knee Massacre and her admiration of the Lakota people, “a nation that thought of all people as a whole.” Lost Bird was the only survivor, and the composition stresses the irony of that treatment of Native Americans with their contributions to society. In her oils like “Native Dreams” she uses symbols of her daily existence — the owl, feathers (for more than 45 years she scribed her

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Dot Goodwin’s “Status Crow” can be seen in Gallery 135 in Patriot Hall through Feb. 29. It is part of the exhibition titled “our native spirit: the art of tari federer and dot goodwin.” name within a feather and several years ago married her husband whose last name Federer means just that). When she works, she states: “I become hollow bones, and everything works through my bones. When I wake up, I am awed and surprised by what I have accomplished.” Both artists compliment and complement each other, not surprising from their absorption with the harmony within the Native American

n l o c in

culture. The show is vibrant in color, creatively executed and well documented with personal explanations to guide viewers through the journey to appreciate “our native spirit.” The exhibit will remain at Patriot Hall Gallery 135, 135 Haynsworth St., through Feb. 29. Admission is free and open to the public during normal hours of operation: 9 a.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call (803) 436-2260.

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RELIGION

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Lift up election season in prayer

hat weighs more, a vote or a prayer? The way most of us measure those two things, they weigh the same: a drop in the bucket, a grain of sand in the ocean. The sentiment can be condensed to this one question: Does it really even matter? From the perspective of the voter, a single vote holds little sway, especially when each person’s vote is weighed equally no matter how shortsighted or haphazardly cultivated. It’s disheartening to think that my vote could be cancelled out by another person who votes on impulse, but such is the population of registered voters. We tend to think of our prayers in the same way: I am but one voice in a host of voices, carelessly thrown skyward. How could God possibly hear my requests over the din of millions of prayers? Because of this hopeless outlook, I find myself regularly praying out of a sense of obligation, a horrible, meaningless practice considering I’m petitioning the one entity that can truly affect change, not

only in the world but in my heart. I hold no absolute confidence in any of our present presicandiFaith Matters dential dates or parJAMIE H. ties. I do have WILSON absolute faith in the one who holds the world and all of its people in His hands. It is with that confidence that we are commanded to pray: “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16, NIV).” With boldness we come before God, presenting our requests. That makes prayer a very weighty responsibility for all believers. The truth is, votes and prayers actually work very differently. You only get one vote, but you can pray without ceasing. A vote is the conclusive response to a decision. Prayer should be the first step toward a decision. Votes help elect imperfect

CHURCH NEWS Bethel AME Church, 1605 S.C. 261, Wedgefield, announces: * In honor of Black History month, each Sunday during the month of February a hero or heroine will be presented during the 10:15 a.m. service. The Black History month celebration will come to a close with a soul food dinner on Sunday, Feb. 28. Cedar Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 1275 Oswego Highway, announces: * Saturday — Sunday school ministry’s annual music and talent service at 6 p.m. Church of Christ, 313 Mooneyham Road, announces: * Saturday, Feb. 27 — An appreciation program for the Palmetto Gospel Singers of Sumter will be held at 5 p.m. On the program: St. Matthew B.C. Choir; Sumter Violinaires; The Hill Boys; and many others. Community Church of Praise, 562 S. Pike Road, announces: * Sunday — Friends and family day at 4 p.m. Minister Mary Lou Durant will speak. Concord Baptist Church, 1885 Myrtle Beach Highway, announces: * Saturday — Kevin Plott, gospel soloist, will provide music at 6 p.m. A love offering will be received. Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, 105 Dinkins St., Manning, announces: * Sunday, Feb. 28 — Black history program at 4 p.m. Curt Thomas will speak.

Fellowship Outreach Ministries, 1891 Florence Highway, announces: * Sunday, Feb. 28 — An appreciation service for Mrs. V. Jackson will be held at 4 p.m. Prophetess Talitha Martin Harrison will speak. * Thursday, Friday and Sunday, March 3, 4 and 6 — Appreciation service for Apostle Virnetta J. Bennett as follows: 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday; and 4 p.m. on Sunday. Speakers: Assistant Pastor E. Boone; Apostle J. Gilliam; and Pastor Lashonda McElveen. Friendship AME Church, 6156 Furse Road, Summerton, announces: * Sunday — Family and friends day at 10:30 a.m. The Rev. Albert Thompson will speak. High Hills Missionary Baptist Church, 6750 Meeting House Road, Dalzell, announces: * Sunday — YWA anniversary program during 10:15 a.m. worship service. * Sunday, Feb. 28 — Black history program during 10:15 a.m. worship. * Sunday, March 6 — Holy communion after 10:15 a.m. worship. Hopewell Baptist Church, 3825 Peach Orchard Road, Dalzell, announces: * Sunday — Black history program, sponsored by the YWA, at 4 p.m. The Rev. Reginald Floyd will speak. On the program: Mount Pleasant Mass Choir of Lynchburg; Crestwood High School Choir; and Jerusalem Baptist Church Choir. A skit will also be presented: “Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).”

Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 421 S. Main St., announces: * Sunday — Black history program with Afro-American tea immediately after services. Sunday school begins at 10 a.m. followed by 11:30 a.m. worship.

Joshua Baptist Church, 5200 Live Oak Road, Dalzell, announces: * Sunday — The 21st pastoral anniversary of the Rev. Eugene Dennis will be celebrated at 10 a.m. The Rev. Anthony Taylor will speak.

Faith Missionary Baptist Church No. 1, 115 Laurel St., announces: * Sunday, Feb. 28 — Fourth Sunday fellowship at 4 p.m. at West End Community Church, 101 S. Salem St. The Rev. Tamara Durant will speak.

Kingdom Builder’s Outreach announces: * Every first and third Monday from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., praise / step team at North HOPE Center. * Saturday, April 2 — “So You

people to office for a short while. Prayer gives us an audience with the Almighty, the one who gives life purpose. We can vote for the man or woman who we feel will solve our nation’s problems, but how often do we pray, anticipating real divine intervention? We should, so says scripture. “But when you ask, be sure that you really expect Him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.” (James 1:6, NLT) When was the last time you listened for an answer to prayer? Or are your prayers just wafting in the wind? Prayer and the electoral process will collide in the coming weeks and months. We’ll begin the process of electing a new leader, a prospect which I hope you have personally bathed in prayer. It’s no secret that I think believers should vote their values in the upcoming election, but more importantly I hope you remember that your most important duty is to lift up the entire election season in prayer. Email Jamie H. Wilson at faithmatterssumter@gmail.com.

Think You Can Praise” friendly competition event. Open to all solo artists, groups, ministry teams, mime, praise dance, and all other Christian talents. Registration ends March 1. Contact Minister Chenise MzChozen Williams at (803) 305-5255. LaGree AME Church, 2920 Kolb Road, announces: * Sunday — Dedication service at 3 p.m. Presiding Elder Eddie Gaston, of the Manning District, will speak. Mount Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 5918 S.C. 260, Manning, announces: * Sunday, Feb. 28 — Black history program will follow the 11:15 a.m. worship. Mount Pisgah AME Church, 217 W. Bartlette St., announces: * Sunday, Feb. 28 — Family and friends day at 4 p.m. Mount Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church, 7355 Camden Highway, Rembert, announces: * Friday — Youth movie night at 6:30 p.m. featuring “In and Out.” * Sunday — Decoration and hospitality annual day will be observed. * Sunday, Feb. 28 — Black history program. Dr. Twianna Mayo will speak. Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 325 Fulton St., announces: * Sunday — Trustee ministry anniversary program and black history celebration at 10:45 a.m. * Sunday, Feb. 28 — Golden Age Ministry anniversary program and black history celebration at 10:45 a.m. New Birth Holiness Church, 42 Larkin St., announces: * Sunday, Feb. 28 — Family and friends day at 4 p.m. with gospel singing groups. On the program: Sumter Violinaires; The Corinthians; The Jubilees; and Hosea Session and Messengers. New Testament Lighthouse Church, 1114 Boulevard Road, announces: * Saturday — Gospel singing at 6 p.m. featuring One Touch and others. Pinewood Baptist Church, S.C. 261, Pinewood, announces:

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Restoring Church of Nativity

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

After two years of painstaking work, experts have completed the initial phase of a delicate restoration project at the Church of the Nativity, in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, where this mosaic is located, giving a much-needed face lift to one of Christianity’s holiest sites. Ziad al-Bandak, who leads the Palestinian committee in charge of the restoration, calls what has been accomplished so far nothing short of “revolutionary.”

* Wednesday, March 2 — The Ark Singers (http://thearksingers.com/) in concert at 7 p.m. A love offering will be received. Call (803) 452-5373 or visit www. pinewoodbaptist.org. * Sunday-Wednesday, March 13-16 — Revival services will be held at 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Sunday and 7 nightly MondayWednesday. Dr. Tommy Kiker will speak. Dinner served at 5:45 p.m. Monday-Wednesday in the fellowship hall. To make dinner reservations, call (803) 452-5373. Providence Baptist Church, 2445 Old Manning Road, announces: * Today — Soup and cornbread supper at 6 p.m. * Sunday — Sweetheart banquet at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $10. St. John Baptist Church, 3944 Brewer Road, Manning, announces: * Sunday — Pack-a-pew program at 4 p.m. The Rev. Ethel Lemon will speak. * Sunday, March 6 — Pastor’s ninth anniversary celebration at 4 p.m. Pastor Jonathan Anderson will speak. St. Jude Catholic Church, 611 W. Oakland Ave., announces: * Sunday — Black history program at 3 p.m. featuring the Rev. John Kennedy, A cappella Group, High Hills Ensemble and St. Jude Gospel Choir. St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church, 7650 Summerton Highway, Silver community, Pinewood, announces: * Sunday — Black history program at 3 p.m. Sen. Kevin Johnson, D-Manning, will speak. * Saturday, Feb. 27 — Third annual Boys to Men program at 2:30 p.m. Open to all young men and boys. * Saturday, March 12 — The play “A Long Way Home,” written, produced and directed by Dea-

con Anthony G.Q. Canty, will be presented at 6 p.m. at Patriot Hall, 135 Haynsworth St. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door and can be purchased by calling Azalee Williams-Kinard at (803) 236-6451. Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, 155 Wall St., announces: * Sunday, Feb. 28 — Black history worship at 10 a.m. Dr. Ezell Pittman will speak. Triumph Ministries, 562 Pike Road, announces: * Friday and Sunday — Pastor appreciation for Prophetess Stephanie Mathis as follows: 7 p.m. Friday, Prophetess Rose Clark Summers of Greensboro, North Carolina, will speak; and 4 p.m. Sunday, Pastor Dorothy Maple will speak. These services will be held at Cross Road Christian Fellowship / St. Peter Baptist Church, 845 Webb St. Unity Baptist Church, 4000 U.S. 15 South, announces: * Friday-Sunday — Revival services as follows: 7 p.m. Friday, the Rev. Paul Goff will speak and His Calling will provide music; 7 p.m. Saturday, the Rev. Jimmy Johnson will speak; 10:30 a.m. Sunday, the Rev. Ken Fetuao will speak and the Wallace Family will provide music; and 6 p.m. Sunday, the Rev. Terry Johnson will speak and Elizabeth Baptist Church Choir will provide music. John Foisey will also provide music at each service. Walker Avenue Church of God, 100 Walker Ave., announces: * Sunday — Youth day program. Tomeka Addison, of Brockington Street Church of God, Timmonsville, will speak. * Sunday, March 13 — Usher’s 58th anniversary program. The Rev. Patricia Kirkland, of Brockington Street Church of God, Timmonsville, will speak.

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NATION

THE SUMTER ITEM

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Before Supreme Court nod, an intrusive interrogation BY JOSH LEDERMAN The Associated Press WASHINGTON — Did you ever buy porn, sniff glue, have sex in junior high? Exactly how many times? White House lawyers are scouring a life’s worth of information about President Obama’s potential picks for the Supreme Court, from the mundane to the intensely personal. In trying to replace the late Justice Antonin Scalia, the president could alter the balance of the court for decades — but only if he can get his nominee through Republicans in the Senate. Prospective justices are put through the nation’s most thorough background check, an invasive process where nothing is off limits. After all, a surprise dredged up later could scuttle confirmation. So candidates’ taxes, writings, childhoods, business dealings, medical histories and, yes, love lives, are all scrutinized for potential red flags. “The idea that you miss something that later torpedoed the nomination — that’s a nightmare,” said Jack Quinn, former White House counsel to President Bill Clinton. Just ask Judge Douglas Ginsburg. Nine days after President Ronald Reagan nominated him for the high court, it was revealed he had smoked marijuana as a law professor at Harvard and he was forced to bow out. For Obama, who has successfully nominated two justices, the vetting

process is even more critical this time as he works to push a nominee through in his final year in office. Already, Republicans are threatening to not even hold a vote. If hearings get mired in a squabble about some late revelation, Republicans could find a fresh rationale for dragging the process out until Obama’s term ends in January 2017. Traditionally, vetting takes weeks if not months, depending on how many candidates are being checked. But Obama isn’t expected to wait more than a couple of weeks to announce his pick. The White House was jolted into action after learning of Scalia’s death, officials said, summoning administration lawyers during Presidents Day weekend to begin searching for a suitable replacement. Obama, traveling in California, has been working with top advisers on his list while aides feel out senators about their willingness to hold a vote. Millions of Americans with security clearances or government jobs are asked probing questions about their loyalty, reliability and character in FBI background checks. But for Supreme Court contenders, the inquiry goes far deeper. Justice Anthony Kennedy sat through 10-plus hours of FBI interviews — and a three-hour session with the attorney general and White House counsel in which all “conceivable noholds-barred questions were asked,”

according to a memorandum archived in the Reagan Library. Among the questions Kennedy was asked: Have you ever engaged in kinky sex? Did you shoplift as a kid? What about any associations with groups like the Klu Klux Klan? Ever abuse a girlfriend? Engage in cruelty to animals? And tell us about sex in college: How often, how many women, and did you ever contract a venereal disease? Typically, such a deep dive doesn’t take place until the “short list” has been winnowed to a few candidates being seriously considered. Some presidents keep a close hold on the names, wary of allowing opponents to start building a case against them. Others have floated potential names through the media to try to gauge the public’s reaction. “I always tell clients that they should think long and hard about whether they want to go through the process at all,” said Robert Kelner, a partner at the Covington law firm who advises presidential appointees on Senate confirmation. “You give up any semblance of privacy. Your name may be floated, but then it might become publically known that the White House backed away because of something embarrassing.” In the Obama White House, the investigation has been divided in the past into a “substantive vet” of workrelated history, performed by White House and Justice Department law-

Church Directory Adventist

Greatness by Example

Sumter Seventh-Day Adventist 103 N Pike West 775-4455 Pastor Harry Robinson Sat. Sch: 9:15 am, Worship: 11:00 am Tues Bible Study 7 pm www.sumter22.adventistchurchconnect.org

Church of Christ Plaza Church of Christ 1402 Camden Hwy. • 905-3163 Stewart Schnur cell 361-8449 Sunday School: 10 am Sunday Worship: 11 am & 6 pm Wed. Bible Class: 7 pm

African Methodist Episcopal

n Presidents’ Day we celebrate the memory of past leaders, each one an example of greatness. One was Abraham Lincoln, a man of character and perseverance. He won the presidency after being defeated for public office eleven times. He came from humble beginnings and took nothing for granted, having empathy for the poor and oppressed and believing that everyone should be treated equally “with malice toward none and charity for all”. Most importantly, Abraham Lincoln was a man of God. Of the Bible, he said, “Read this book for what on reason you can accept, and take the rest on faith….” Follow a great example and worship God this week.

Anglican Mon. - Thurs. Chapel 9 am Morning Prayer Wed. Chapel 11:00 qm - Bible Study 12 pm Mass

Photo Credit Istockphoto.com/eurobanks

Wayman Chapel AME Church 160 N. Kings Hwy. • 803-494-3686 www.waymanchapelame.com Reverened Dennis W. Broughton, Jr. Church School 9:00 am Worship 10:15 am Wed. Bible Study 12:00 pm & 6:30 pm

Church of the Holy Cross 335 North Kings Hwy (Hwy 261 N) 803-494-8101 Father Michael E. Ridgill, C.F.S.B. Sunday School 9:00 am Mass 10:00 am

Saturday: 6:00 pm S 99:15 15 - 12 00 Noon, N 55:00 00 PM Sun. 12:00 Confession: Sat. 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

1 Cor. 13:1-13

Colossians 3:1-17

Weekly Scripture Reading John John John 3:1-21 3:22-36 14:15-31

John 15:1-17

Luke 15:1-10

Scriptures Selected by the American Bible Society

Salem Missionary Baptist Church 320 West Fulton Street 803-775-8054 Sun. School 9:00 am Praise Worship 9:55 am Worship 10:00 am

Shaw Heights Baptist Church 2030 Peach Orchard Rd. • 499-4997 Rev. Robert White Pastor Sunday School: 9:45 am Sunday Worship:11 am & 6 pm

Assembly of God Baptist - Southern Catholic - Roman First Assembly of God 1151 Alice Drive * 773-3817 www.sumterﬁrstag.org Jason Banar, Pastor Sunday School 9:30 am Sunday Worship: 10:30 am

Baptist - Missionary Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church 803 S Harvin St. * 775-4032 Marion H Newton, Pastor Sunday Worship: 7:45 & 10:45 am Sunday Youth Service: 10:45 am Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 pm

Grace Baptist Church 219 W Calhoun St * 778-6417 Dr. Stephen Williams S.S. 9:45 am; Worship 11:00 am Evening Worship/Bible Study 6:30 pm Wed. Prayer Meeting 6:30 pm Wed. Bible Study: 6:30 pm

The Catholic Community of Sumter, St. Anne Site 216 E Liberty St • 803-773-3524 Pastor Rev. Frank Palmieri, CRM Vicar Rev. Noly Berjuega, CRM Weekend Masses: Sat. 4:30 pm Sun. 8:00 and 12:00 Noon Confession: Sat. 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Hickory Road Baptist Church 1245 Cherryvale Dr 803-494-8281 Dr. Ron Taylor Pastor Sunday School 9:45 am Worship 10:55 am Evening Worship 6:00 pm

The Catholic Community of Sumter, St. Jude Site 611 W. Oakland Ave • 773-9244 www.stjudesumtersc.org FPastor Rev. Frank Palmieri, CRM Vicar Rev. Noly Berjuega, CRM

Interdenominational City of Refuge Church 16 Carolina Ave 938-9066 Barbara & Johnny Davis Sun School 10:00 am Worship 11:15 am Bible Study (Wed.) 7:00 pm www.cityofrefugeministry.com

Spiritual Life Christian Center 4672 Broad St. Ext • 968-5771 Pastors Randolph & Minerva Paige Sunday Worship: 11:00 am Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 pm Victory Full Gospel Interdenominational Church 601 Pitts Rd • 481-7003 Joann P. Murrill, Pastor Sunday Worship: 11:00 am Youth Bible Study 7:00 pm

Lutheran - ELCA St James Lutheran Church 1137 Alice Dr, Sumter 773-2260 / www.stjamessumter.org Pastor Keith Getz Sunday School: 9:00 am Sunday Worship: 10:00 am Wed. Bible Study 10:30 am Holy Communion: 12:00 pm

yers, and the “personal vet,” handled by outside attorneys, current and former administration officials said. Memos on each area of inquiry then get melded into a single report for the president and top aides. Obama, like the four most recent presidents before him, tends to interview his final candidates himself. George W. Bush interviewed five candidates to replace Sandra Day O’Connor before settling on Samuel Alito, according to the Congressional Research Service. Candidates who have been Senateconfirmed before could be especially appealing to Obama because much of the painstaking work of collecting information is already done. This year’s short fuse also works in favor of younger judges whose thinner judicial records mean a shorter paper trail. After the president’s nomination there’s a whole new round of questioning — this time by the Senate Judiciary Committee, in questionnaires and finally in televised hearings. Justice Sonya Sotomayor, nominated in 2009, was asked whether anyone in Obama’s office had asked her about cases currently before the court. She was also asked to list every opinion she’d authored, every time she’d recused herself and every legal event she’d attended since joining the district court. All told, Sotomayor’s questionnaire response totaled more than 5,000 pages.

First Church of God 1835 Camden Rd • 905-5234 www.sumterfcg.org Ron Bower, Pastor Sunday School: 9:30 am Sunday Worship: 10:30 am

Lutheran - NALC Immanuel Lutheran Church 140 Poinsett Drive 803-883-1049 • 803-774-2380 Pastor Gary Blobaum Worship Service 9:00 am Sunday School 10:30 am Wed Bible Class: 7:00 pm

Presbyterian USA

Greater St. Paul Church 200 Watkins Street • 803-778-1355 Founder Bishop W.T. English Sunday School - 10:30 am Worship - 11:30 am Evangelistic Service 6:30 pm Wed. Mid Week Service - 7:30 pm

Methodist - United Aldersgate United Methodist 211 Alice Dr • 775-1602 Dr. Webb Belangia, Reverend Traditional Service 9:00 am Sunday School 10:15 am Contemporary 11:15 am

Sumter Bible Church 420 South Pike West, Sumter 803-773-8339 • Pastor Ron Davis Sunday School 10:00 am Worship 11:00 am & 6:30 pm Wed. Bible Study & Prayer 7:00 pm

Bethel United Methodist Church 5575 Lodebar Rd • 469-2452 The Rock Church of Sumter Rev. Jeremy Howell 365 N. Saint Pauls Ch. Rd. • 803-494-7625 Sunday Worship: 8:30 & 11 am Pastor Gwendolyn Credle Sunday School: 10 am Sunday School 9:30 am www.yourbethel.org Worship Service 11:00 am BMethodist@ftc-i.net St John United Methodist Church 136 Poinsett Dr * 803-773-8185 www.stjohnumcsumter.com Rev. Larry Brown Sunday School 9:45 am Worship 11:00 am Wed. Bible Study 11:00 am Trinity United Methodist Church 226 W Liberty St • 773-9393 Rev. Steve Holler Blended Service 8:45 am Sunday School 9:45 am Worship Service 11:00 am trinityumcsumter.org

Non-Denominational Christ Community Church(CCC) 320 Loring Mill Rd., Sumter www.cccsumter.com 803-905-7850 Sun. Worship 10:00 am (Patriot Hall) 135 Haynsworth Street

First Presbyterian Church of Sumter 9 W Calhoun St (at Main St.) (803) 773-3814 • info@fpcsumter.org Interim Pastor Rev. Jim Burton Sunday School 9:30 a.m. (classes for all ages) Hospitality/Fellowship Hall 10:10 a.m. Children/Youth Gather 4:45 p.m. W. Bldg. Night Church 5:00 p.m. (classes for all ages) Supper 6:30 p.m. Fellowship Hall

Presbyterian - ARP Lemira Presbyterian Church 514 Boulevard Rd • 473-5024 Pastor Dan Rowton Sunday School 10:00 am Worship 11:00 am

Pentecostal First United Penecostal Church 14 Plowden Mill Rd • 775-9493 Pastor Theron Smith Sunday Service: 10:00 am & 6:30 pm Wednesday Bible Study: 7:30 pm Sumter First Pentecostal Holiness Church 2609 McCrays Mill Rd • 481-8887 S. Paul Howell, Pastor Sunday School: 10:00 am Sunday Worship: 10:45 am & 6:00 pm Wed. Bible Study/Youth Group: 7:00 pm

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

THE SUMTER ITEM

THE CLARENDON SUN Call: (803) 774-1211 | E-mail: konstantin@theitem.com

The Rev. George P. Windley Sr., pastor of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Manning, stands in the sanctuary of his church. He is the longest-tenured pastor of the church, serving for 37 years. Below, Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church is seen in Manning. The church was founded in 1869, and the current building was constructed in 1901. PHOTOS BY KONSTANTIN VENGEROWSKY / THE SUMTER ITEM

Manning pastor wins humanitarian award BY KONSTANTIN VENGEROWSKY konstantin@theitem.com The Rev. George P. Windley Sr., pastor of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Manning, will receive the Grace Brooks-Palmer Humanitarian award today at the 38th Annual Cross Cultural Conference in Myrtle Beach. Windley has served as pastor of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church for 37 years. He is the longest-tenured pastor of the church. Throughout his career, he has pastored four churches across South Carolina. Windley has also served as chaplain with South Carolina Department of Corrections for about 27 years. He was the first black senior chaplain hired by the department. Willie Bethune, past president and current board member of Action Council for Cross Cultural Mental Health and Human Services, nominated Windley for the award. Some of the requirements for nominees included: making significant contributions to the community; exemplifying values and behavior that transcend issues of race, ethnicity and gender; tolerance of divergent views; and being a resident of South Carolina. “Rev. Windley left a legacy of service at the Department of Corrections and continues to exemplify himself as a pastor,” Bethune said. “He helped many individuals who felt all alone. He can inspire anyone. You can see him in the streets working to help people. You can see the goodness of the Lord in him, in the way he lives his life.” State Sen. Kevin L. Johnson, D-Manning, has been a member of Windley’s church for 29 years. “The word humanitarian fits Rev.

Windley perfectly,” Johnson said. “He is selfless, humble and does a lot for individuals in the community, especially work behind the scenes. He has a big heart and is a very generous person.” Manning Mayor Julia A. Nelson is also a member of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church. “Rev. Windley is a faithful man of God,” Nelson said. “His faith is not one that is worn on his garment as a badge but one that can be demonstrated in the way he encourages everyone in any situation.” Windley, originally from the Burgess Community in Myrtle Beach, was raised in a family of 12 children. His father died when he was 7. At 17, Windley said he decided to give his life to Christ and was called into the ministry. After graduating from Whittemore High School (today Whittemore Middle School) in Myrtle Beach, he enlisted in the Navy, where he served from 1969 to

1971. He then enrolled at Morris College in Sumter, receiving a bachelor of arts degree and a bachelor of divinity. He completed further studies at Colgate Divinity School in Rochester, New York, and five units of Clinical Pastoral Education. In the 1980s, he began ministering to inmates at different prisons throughout the state, and in 1989 he was hired as chaplain. “When I interviewed inmates at the various prisons, I noticed that most of them came out of single-parent homes, without a father,” he said. “They did not have that nurturing, caring, supportive and God-fearing person in their life growing up.” Out of those interviews Windley said came an idea to create an annual conference for young men. In 1987, Windley and several church and community leaders started an annual program for boys called “Manhood Training” at his church. The pro-

gram covered topics such as physical fitness, etiquette, drug awareness, social skills, problem solving and teamwork and staying away from self-destructive behaviors. Through the years, the program expanded to include girls as well and today is called “Manhood/ Womanhood Training.” The program follows a manual that was designed by Windley’s childhood friend, O’Neal Smalls, a retired University of South Carolina School of Law professor. “We invite any boys and girls from the community who want to come,” Windley said. The program has ministered to about 3,000 people in its 29 years of existence and has attracted youth from five counties and outside the state, he said. During his career as chaplain at the South Carolina Department of Corrections, Windley started a program called “Character-based dormitory” at Turbeville Correctional Institution. The program caters to about 125 inmates who live in one of the wings of the prison. The inmates go through programs focused on character-based learning. These include workshops on leadership, anger management, integrity and character, GED preparation, individual Bible study and parenting. “The goal is to transform their thinking to become model citizens and to teach others how to be positive and productive,” Windley said. “It’s about sowing positive thoughts in their minds.” Windley said he was humbled to have been selected to receive the Grace Brooks-Palmer Humanitarian award. A native of Aiken, Brooks-Palmer was a Columbia resident known across the state for her work in civil rights and community organizing.

Miss Clarendon 2016 focuses on program for special-needs students BY KONSTANTIN VENGEROWSKY konstantin@theitem.com Drue Floyd, Miss Clarendon 2016, has a passion for working with students with special needs. The New Zion native, who was crowned on Feb. 6, is promoting her platform “Project UNIFY.” Special Olympics Project UNIFY is a national education-based program that uses sports and education initiatives of the Special Olympics to activate youth to promote school communities where all young people are agents of change, according to the Special Olympics website, www. specialolympics.org/projectunify.aspx. Floyd, 19, said the program has been a success at her alma mater, East Clarendon High School, in Turbeville. “The program brings together students from the regular classroom setting to work with students with special needs,” she said. Floyd said students spend time with those with special needs during their lunch and

break periods. They participate in events such as the school’s beauty pageant and prom. “It was bittersweet to graduate last year because I miss working with those students,” she said. “I’ve always found myself drawn to them and never saw them as any different.” Floyd said with her platform she wants to encourage others to accept special-needs children and to help them in their daily lives. “I would like to promote the program to other school districts and am excited to be a part of it,” she said. Floyd is pursuing an associate’s degree in speech lan-

guage pathology at Central Carolina Technical College. Her ultimate goal is to receive a master’s degree in that field and to work with children and adults who have speech disorders, such as difficulties with speech, voice and swallowing. Floyd has been competing in pageants since age 13, primarily at her school and locally. In 2015, she was crowned Miss East Clarendon High School. She said winning Miss Clarendon came as a surprise to her. “It was amazing,” she said. “I was in complete shock.” Floyd also won the swimsuit competition at the pageant.

She has been singing her whole life, and her talent was a song called “Four Days Late” by Karen Peck & New River. As with all Miss South Carolina contestants, Floyd will be raising money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals throughout the year. The organization is a nonprofit that raises money for children’s hospitals, medical research and community awareness of children’s health issues. To make a donation on Floyd’s page, go to www.missamericaforkids.org/Donate/ missclarendonsc. For those wanting to request an appearance by Miss

PHOTO PROVIDED

The platform of Drue Floyd, a New Zion native named Miss Clarendon 2016, is “Project UNIFY.” Clarendon or Miss Clarendon Teen, email missclarendonpageant@yahoo.com.

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES All persons having claims against the following estates MUST file their claims on FORM #371ES with the Probate Court of Clarendon County, the address of which is 411 Sunset Dr. Manning, SC 29102, within eight (8) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice to Creditors or within one (1) year from date of death, whichever is earlier (SCPC 62-3-801, et seq.), or such persons shall be forever barred as to their claims. All claims are required to be presented in written statements on the prescribed form (FORM #371ES) indicating the name and 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 claim, and a description of any security as to the claim.

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THE SUMTER ITEM

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

IS faces budget crunch, cuts perks, trims salaries

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, is leaving open the possibility of holding a hearing for President Obama’s choice to fill a Supreme Court vacancy amid signs of uncertainty about how Republicans would treat a nominee to replace the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia.

Senate chairman open to hearing for Supreme Court pick WASHINGTON (AP) — The chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee is leaving open the possibility of holding a hearing for President Obama’s choice to fill a Supreme Court vacancy amid signs of uncertainty about how Republicans would treat a nominee to replace the late Antonin Scalia. Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, said he backs Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s view that Obama’s successor should make the nomination of a lifetime appointment. But Grassley didn’t rule out holding confirmation hearings and a vote by his panel on an Obama selection. “I would wait until the nominee is made before I would make any decision,” Grassley said Tuesday in a conference call with Iowa radio reporters. “In other words, take it a step at a time.” Asked if he thought the controversy over filling the court vacancy might endanger his reelection chances this fall, Grassley said, “I think I have a responsibility to perform, and I can’t worry about the election. I’ve got to do my job as a senator, whatever it is. And there will be a lot of tough votes between now and the next election.” The battle lines were set almost immediately in the hours after Scalia’s death on Saturday. Senate Republicans, led by McConnell and including vulnerable GOP senators up for reelection this year, said Election Day in November will give voters a say in who replaces Scalia. Senate Democrats countered that Obama is president until Jan. 20, 2017, and has every constitutional right to make the selection and the Senate should do its job and consider the choice. Obama has said he will nominate a replacement in due time. His Democratic allies made it clear that denying the president that right would be an unprecedented step and argued it would enshrine the GOP as “the most nakedly partisan, obstructionist and irresponsible majority in history.” “By ignoring its constitutional mandate, the Senate would sabotage the highest court in the United States and aim a procedural missile at the foundation of our system of checks and balances,” Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said in a scathing op-ed in Tuesday’s Washington Post. The No. 3 Democrat in the Senate, Chuck Schumer of New York, said Tuesday that he expects Obama to select a consensus candidate who could get bipartisan support and predicted that a “huge public outcry” would force McConnell to back down. Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont, the top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, said, “refusing to do anything means you’re voting maybe. That’s a cowardly way out.” In Richmond, Vermont, Leahy said the last time the court was down a jurist was during the Civil War. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., a member of the Judiciary Committee, cautioned Republicans Tuesday against flatly ruling out any Obama nominee because of the possibility that the president selects someone who

matches Scalia’s conservative views. “That’s unlikely to happen, but I think we fall into the trap if we just simply say ‘Sight unseen,’ we fall into the trap of being obstructionist,” Tillis said on “The Tyler Cralle Show” on WAAV in Wilmington, North Carolina. Tillis said if Obama picks a candidate who embraces the president’s views, “then we’ll use every device available to block that nomination, wait till the American people voice their vote in November and then move forward with the nomination after the election.”

BEIRUT (AP) — Faced with a cash shortage in its socalled caliphate, the Islamic State group has slashed salaries across the region, asked Raqqa residents to pay utility bills in black market American dollars and is now releasing detainees for a price of $500 a person. The extremists who once bragged about minting their own currency are having a hard time meeting expenses, thanks to coalition airstrikes and other measures that have eroded millions from their finances since last fall. Having built up loyalty among militants with good salaries and honeymoon and baby bonuses, the group has stopped providing even the smaller perks: free energy drinks and Snickers bars. Necessities are dwindling in its urban centers, leading to shortages and widespread inflation, according to exiles and those still suffering under its rule. Interviews gathered over several weeks included three exiles with networks of family and acquaintances still in the group’s stronghold in Raqqa, residents in Mosul and analysts who say IS is turning to alternative funding streams, including in Libya. In Raqqa, the group’s stronghold in Syria, salaries have been halved since December, electricity is rationed, and prices for basics are spiraling out of reach, according to people exiled

from the city. “Not just the militants. Any civil servant, from the courts to the schools, they cut their salary by 50 percent,” said a Raqqa activist now living in the Turkish city of Gaziantep, who remains in close contact with his native city. But that apparently wasn’t enough to close the gap for a group that needs money to replace weapons lost in airstrikes and battles and pays its fighters first and foremost. Those two expenses account for two-thirds of its budget, according to an estimate by Aymenn Jawad alTamimi, a researcher with the Middle East Forum who sources Islamic State documents. Within the last two weeks, the extremist group started accepting only dollars for “tax” payments, water and electric bills, according to the Raqqa activist, who asked to be identified by his nom de guerre Abu Ahmad for his safety. “Everything is paid in dollars,” he said. His account was bolstered by another exRaqqa resident, who, like Ahmad, also relies on communications with a network of family and acquaintances still in the city. Al-Tamimi came across a directive announcing the fighters’ salary cuts in Raqqa: “On account of the exceptional circumstances the Islamic State is facing, it has been decided to reduce the salaries that are paid to

all mujahedeen by half, and it is not allowed for anyone to be exempted from this decision, whatever his position.” Those circumstances include the dramatic drop in global prices for oil — once a key source of income — airstrikes that have targeted cash stores and oil infrastructure, supply line cuts, and crucially, the Iraqi government’s decision to stop paying civil servants in territory controlled by the extremists. A Russian-backed Syrian government offensive in Aleppo province, where IS controls major towns including Manbij, Jarablus and alBab, is also putting pressure on IS. Government troops and allied militiamen have advanced toward the town, considered an IS bastion, leading many militants to send their families to Raqqa. An exile from al-Bab said low-level fighters there have begun to grumble, and townspeople have overheard Islamic State officials discussing crippling airstrikes on oil infrastructure in Syria and Iraq and the cutoff of supply lines and revenue sources. The resident, who asked only that his first name Oussama be used because he still has family in the city, said dozens of residents of alBab have fled, ignoring orders from the extremists. “You can sense the frustration; their morale is down,” Oussama said of the fighters.

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WIS

TELEVISION

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

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You, Me and the Apocalypse: What The Blacklist: Drexel Red helps task (:01) Shades of Blue: Undiscovered WIS News 10 at (:35) The Tonight Show Starring Country Wozniak deals with his feel- 11:00pm News Jimmy Fallon Vince Vaughn; Ryan Happens to Idiots Jamie and Dave get force look for murderer. (N) (HD) Seacrest. (N) (HD) and weather. ings. (N) (HD) into a hospital. (N) (HD) The Big Bang (:31) Life in (:01) Mom Marjo- 2 Broke Girls Elementary: A Study in Charlotte News 19 @ 11pm (:35) The Late Show with Stephen Theory (N) (HD) Pieces Looking rie’s wedding. (N) Caroline’s story. Professor murdered with mushThe news of the Colbert Actress Téa Leoni; actress younger. (N) (HD) (HD) (N) (HD) rooms. (N) (HD) day. Amanda Peet. (N) (HD) Grey’s Anatomy: All I Want Is You Scandal: The Candidate Mellie turns How to Get Away with Murder: She ABC Columbia (:35) Jimmy Kimmel Live Kerry The doctors continue to treat to Olivia for help. (N) (HD) Hates Us Keating household remains News at 11 (HD) Washington; Nikolaj Coster-Waldau; Meredith. (N) (HD) on edge. (N) (HD) Jason Derulo. (N) (HD) Europe Ruins and Palmetto Scene The World of Julia Peterkin: Cheat- Reel South (N) Reel South: Mercy Street: The Dead Room Hos- Tavis Smiley BBC World News Charlie Rose (N) 11 14 mosaics. (N) (HD) ing the Stillness The life of the (HD) Bending Sticks (N) pital inspector visits. (HD) (HD) International (HD) American fiction writer. (HD) news. The Big Bang The Big Bang American Idol: Showcase #4: Judges Vote The remaining contestants get WACH FOX News at 10 Local news Overtime 2 Broke Girls: Mike & Molly 6 6 Theory Two Theory (HD) a chance to perform with mentors, preparing for the verdict of the judges’ report and weather forecast. And the Hidden Peggy’s stories. women. (HD) votes, which determines the Top 14. (N) (HD) Stash (HD) (HD) Anger Manage- Anger Manage- DC’s Legends of Tomorrow: The 100: Hakeldama Clarke’s dream The Mentalist: Redwood A girl re- The Mentalist: Red Handed Jane Hot in Cleveland 4 22 ment Eccentric ment Eccentric Fail-Safe Snart leads escape mission of peace crushed. (N) (HD) lives her friend’s death. (HD) plays cards to solve casino murder. Friends share therapist. (HD) therapist. (HD) to free team. (N) (HD) (HD) home. (HD) WIS News 10 at Entertainment Tonight Dating app. (N) (HD) news update. News 19 @ 7pm Inside Edition (N) 9 9 Evening news up- (HD) date. Wheel of Fortune Jeopardy! (N) 5 12 (N) (HD) (HD) 3

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Power struggles, savagery continue as ‘Vikings’ returns BY KEVIN MCDONOUGH The “Vikings” (10 p.m., History, TV-14) are back! Bury your silver. The compelling, ultra-violent family saga returns for a 20-episode fourth season that will air in two separate installments. The story resumes with Ragnar (Travis Fimmel) knock, knock, knockin’ on Valhalla’s door. After Paris, he’s considered a goner by enemies and friends. These include his stunning, if scheming, second wife, Queen Aslaug (Alyssa Sutherland). Ragnar’s sidekick, Floki (Gustaf Skarsgard), who murdered the king’s Christian confidant, Athelstan (George Blagden), at the end of season three, is also not too keen for Ragnar to awaken. Meanwhile, back in Paris, Ragnar’s brother, Rollo (Clive Standen), learns that power politics and imperial deals make for very strange bedfellows. The raid on Paris has resulted in a mass of gold and treasure. More importantly, it has opened the Vikings’ eyes to a new kind of military hardware that should up the body count on this very violent show, while at the same time rendering some of their colorful tactics a tad obsolete. Not to give too much away, but the bloodiest moments include Ragnar’s discarded first wife, Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick), caught up in power struggles of her own. The less said about this scene, the better. Guys, you never want to mess with a shield maiden. “Vikings” continues to appeal to those of us brave enough to admit that we find the narrative on “Game of Thrones” more convoluted than engaging. A fairly simple family story complete with power struggles and savagery, “Vikings” most resembles “The Sopranos” in emphasizing a complicated leader beset with underlings with very mixed motivations and surrounded by fierce women more than capable of great loyalty and betrayal. • Also on History, Craig Ferguson returns to latenight talk with the 22-episode half-hour series “Join or Die With Craig Ferguson” (11

A prison break on “DC’s Legends of Tomorrow” (8 p.m., CW, TV-14) * John hides his age on “Life in Pieces” (8:30 p.m., CBS, TV-PG) * Marjorie’s big day on “Mom” (9 p.m., CBS, TV-14) * Peace schemes dashed on “The 100” (9 p.m., CW, TV-14) * Screen dreams on “2 Broke Girls” (9:30 p.m., CBS, TV-14).

CULT CHOICE Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse star in the 1953 songand-dance classic “The Band Wagon” (10 p.m., TCM).

LATE NIGHT

JONATHAN HESSION / HISTORY

History’s hit drama series “Vikings” begins its fourth season at 10 p.m. today. p.m.). On “Die,” Ferguson will discuss topics related to history with a panel of historians and celebrities. Topics include: What was the most influential drug in history? The greatest pair of “frenemies”? The most influential band? Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert make “stars” of lesser-known authors and experts. The accent here appears to be on celebrity talk. “Die” has announced the appearances of Judd Apatow, Jack Black, Julie Bowen and Courteney Cox, as well as talk-show hosts Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel and Joel McHale. Look for rich people treating history as a parlor game (or a joke), rather than smart people discussing the subject as if it matters.

• Death by fungi on “Elementary” (10 p.m., CBS, TV14). • Harlee shields Saperstein on “Shades of Blue” (10 p.m., NBC, TV-14). • New insights into Annalise’s past on “How to Get Away With Murder” (10 p.m., ABC, TV-14). • Chip babysits for Dale on “Baskets” (10 p.m., FX, TV-14). • News emerges about Will and Katie’s long-lost son on

“Colony” (10 p.m., USA, TV14). • News of Alex’s fate on the season finale of “London Spy” (10 p.m., BBC America, TV14).

SERIES NOTES A nuanced reaction on “The Big Bang Theory” (8 p.m., CBS, TV-14) * The search for a savior on “You, Me and the Apocalypse” (8 p.m., NBC, TV-14) *

Ice Cube is booked on “The Daily Show With Trevor Noah” (11 p.m., Comedy Central, r) * Tom Jones and Oliver Hudson appear on “Conan” (11 p.m., TBS, r) * Jemele Hill is a guest on “The Nightly Show With Larry Wilmore” (11:30 p.m., Comedy Central, r) * Tea Leoni and Amanda Peet are booked on “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” (11:35 p.m., CBS) * Jimmy Fallon welcomes Vince Vaughn, Ryan Seacrest and Dead & Company on “The Tonight Show” (11:35 p.m., NBC) * Katie Couric, Gillian Jacobs and Anders Holm appear on “The Late Late Show With James Corden” (12:35 a.m., CBS). Copyright 2016, United Feature Syndicate

2015-16

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

TONIGHT’S OTHER HIGHLIGHTS • Past participants mentor on “American Idol” (8 p.m., Fox, TV-14). • Meredith’s trauma touches everyone on “Grey’s Anatomy” (8 p.m., ABC, TV-14). • A tech wiz’s killer may be a pro on “The Blacklist” (9 p.m., NBC, TV-14). • Liz thinks Susan Ross has the right stuff on “Scandal” (9 p.m., ABC, TV-14).

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LOCAL

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

TRUMP FROM PAGE A1 his vision for the nation’s future. Judging by the crowd’s enthusiasm, those who are counting on the Trump campaign to implode any day may be as President George W. Bush might say, “misunderestimating” The Donald. He began by calling the agreement with Iran “disgusting,” warning that Iran is now in control of Iraq and has all the power in the region. “We spent $2 trillion and thousands of lives,” he said, reminding the crowd he was against the U.S. invasion in 2003. “We have to start being smart,” he said, as the audience cheered. On immigration, he said we cannot let people into the country with no idea of who they are. “We’re going to build that wall,” he said. “I learned we have 179,000 criminal illegal aliens in the country. They’re all over the place.” He heaped scorn on Secretary Hillary Clinton, and insinuated she is being protected from criminal charges by President Obama. “Have you ever seen her so solicitous,” Trump asked. “She doesn’t want to get indicted.” “I am going to beat her so easily,” he crowed. He lambasted the country’s trade deficits with China and Mexico. “China is taking so much money it is the greatest theft in the history of the world,” he said, promising a 35 percent tax on goods entering the U.S. from countries such as China and Mexico. “They take our money, they take our jobs, they take our factories, and we owe them,” he said.

MAYOR FROM PAGE A1 he said. “That is phenomenal.” He said in 2006 per capita income in Sumter County was $5,000 to $6,000 below the South Carolina average and now it is only $600 less than the state average. “We have closed the gap considerably,” he said. He said Sumter did a lot of things right when it landed Continental Tire The Americas, such as investing in a water tank and sewer upgrades in the community. Continental has surpassed original expectations for investment in the area economy, which was around $500 million, he said. “Continental is pushing $1 billion,” he said. He singled out CCCT’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Center as a one-of-a-kind facility that has attracted the interest of several companies, including Volvo, which is set to build a plant near Charleston. McElveen said Shaw Air Force Base is a big part of the Sumter economy and is as strong as it has ever been, but the local community must be careful not to allow encroachment to complicate the base’s mission. He said the base may get the new F-35 fighter at some point and it is louder than the current airplanes at the base and may require changes in the protected zones. “One of the big things we have here is the Poinsett Range,” he said. Steve Creech, chairman of the Sumter Military Affairs Committee, said the overall picture at the base is positive, even though there are questions about whether the Third Army will remain at the base. He said the Department of Defense would like to initiate a session of the Base Closing and Re-alignment Commission or BRAC so it could con-

He repeated his attack on Sen. Ted Cruz for spreading rumors of Ben Carson dropping out of the race the night of the Iowa caucuses and sending out flyers alleging “voter violations.” “Politician are worse that real estate developers,” he said. Turning to Sen. Marco Rubio, Trump said he was glad the senator called him a liar. “Now I can call him a liar, too,” he said. All politicians are taken care of by their contributors and lobbyists, he said. “Nobody takes care of me,” Trump said. “I finance my own campaign” He chided Gov. Nikki Haley, who had earlier in the day endorsed Rubio. “She is weak on immigration,” he said as the crowd responded with a roar. “We need a strong immigration policy.” Trump said that he was asked if he was angry, but he wasn’t going to give the proper reply. “I am angry, and so are the people that follow me,” he said. He urged the attendees to get out and vote Saturday because he would be watching. “I am going to be here Saturday night, I am going to be here Sunday night,” he said, leaving it up to the listeners to interpret what the meant by “here.” In his hour-long speech Trump said he had been around the country and seen thousands of people at his rallies. “Bigger than Bernie’s — though he does really well,” he bragged. “The people of this country are incredible, now get out and vote and make this country great again,” Trump concluded, leaving the stage to mingle with the first few rows of the audience and the dozens of people who crowded around trying to get a glimpse and take a cellphone picture.

solidate some bases, but Congress has not allowed it. He said a BRAC would most likely be a plus for Shaw AFB, since operations at any bases closed could well be relocated to Shaw, which is considered

THE SUMTER ITEM

MANNERS FROM PAGE A1 .smoke inhalation based on the soot in her airways and the carbon monoxide in her blood system. Joann Topper was alive and breathing in smoke as the fire was going, Meadors asked. “Correct,” Ross said. She said James Topper died of thermal injuries. Griffith asked if James Topper had a high but non-toxic level of alcohol in his system indicating he was intoxicated when he died. Ross said, “yes.” The Toppers’ 2008 white Honda Accord, believed to have been taken by Manners after the fire, was later spotted by Sgt. Kimberly Klare with Erlanger Police Department in Erlanger, Kentucky, who followed behind and later chased the Honda for approximately 22.48 miles to Cincinnati, Ohio. Manners was apprehended on June 2, 2013, after crashing the Honda into the Ohio River and attempting to flee on foot. The prosecution played an audio recording of Manner’s interview with Sgt. Jennifer Mitsch, a homicide investigator with Cincinnati Police Department, at a Cincinnati hospital on June 3, 2013. Mitsch said Manners appeared to be coherent during the interview and did not ask for her to repeat or explain anything. She said she could understand Manners without issue during the interview. During the interview Manners said he did not stop the vehicle

safe from closure. Creech said a bill before the S.C. Senate to cut taxes on military retirees would be a big boost for growth in Sumter. “We are in competition with states all over the Southeast

for military retirees,” he said. “One thing military retirees do is find out which states won’t tax their retirement income and that’s where they go.” Assistant City Manager Daren McCormick said Sum-

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when he was being chased by Erlanger police because he knew he was going to jail anyway. Manners said he had had a problem with depression and drugs since high school and tried to overdose of Adderall when in school. He described living with his grandparents as chaotic and said they argued every day. He also said they believed that he would steal from them. Manners later told Mitsch he would possibly be facing arson, murder and grand theft auto charges from South Carolina. Meadors stopped the recording at that time to state that Manners was the first to mention possible charges. Manners told Mitsch that his grandmother was upstairs and not dead when he left the house on June 1, 2013 and his grandfather was most likely knocked unconscious after he struck him with his hand. After Mitsch asked about an accelerant, Manners mentioned a “big old tank of gas.” Griffith asked Mitsch if Manners’ signature on a document stating he had been read his Miranda rights on June 3, 2013 could have been uneven because he was under the influence of drugs. Mitsch stated that to the best of her knowledge, Manners’ signature was uneven because of the position that he had been handcuffed to the hospital bed.

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

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016 H.G. Osteen 1870-1955 Founder, The Item

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A11

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COMMENTARY

What would Scalia do?

Senate should block Obama’s nomination to Supreme Court

ASHINGTON — As Republican presidential candidates invoke Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia’s legacy, all insisting that his suddenly vacant seat shouldn’t be filled until a new president is in place, it is helpful to ask: What would Scalia do? First, Scalia would read the law and, without much chin-stroking, recommend the obvious intent of Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution, which reads: “ shall nominate, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, shall appoint ... judges of the Supreme Court.” See? That wasn’t Kathleen complicated. And Parker the Senate can always reject a nominee. Yet Majority Leader Mitch McConnell made it clear that no Supreme Court nominations will get to the floor. Somewhat less rigid, Sen. Chuck Grassley, chair of the Judiciary Committee, has said he’ll wait to see who the nominee is before deciding whether to convene a hearing. All Republican candidates have expressed agreement with McConnell, with Donald Trump being the most vocal and least nuanced: “Delay, delay, delay,” he said inimitably at Saturday’s debate in South Carolina, just hours after the nation learned of Scalia’s death. As unseemly as such political proclamations are so soon after the justice’s death, Scalia likely would have found the shenanigans childishly amusing. Unerringly faithful to the rule of law -- and deferential to the executive and legislative branches — he would have understood the politics but not the point. The law is clear. But politics are something else, and Republicans have decided that, at least on this matter, the people should have a voice. Inarguably, with three justices likely to retire during the next presidency and Scalia’s seat now empty, the stakes couldn’t be higher. But, if you’ll pardon this intrusion of logic, haven’t the people already had a voice? Didn’t a majority of the people re-elect President Obama, and doesn’t he have nearly a year left to serve out his term? Lame duck doesn’t mean dead duck — and this president’s still quacking. Now, if you don’t really like democracy, we can talk. Originalists well know that the Founding Fathers had no interest in everybody having a voice. But these same originalists would have to concede that it’s the president’s job to nominate a replacement for an empty Supreme Court seat and the Senate’s job to advise and consent

— or dissent, as the case may be. Yet to Republicans, the idea of Obama fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities falls somewhere between apocalyptic and absurd. Sort of like when people used to walk up to Scalia and ask, When did you first become an originalist? — prompting the justice subsequently to remark: “As though it’s some weird affliction, you know, ‘When did you start eating human flesh?’” Love or hate Scalia, the Supreme Court just became a far, far duller place. So why would the GOP, professedly stewards of original intent, seek to thwart the Constitution’s clear purposes? Again, not complicated. First, because several cases that Republicans hoped would result in their favor hang in the balance. With a four-four vote, the lower courts’ rulings stand. Second, payback. All will gladly remind us that Democrats have behaved similarly. In 2007 — 18 months before President George W. Bush’s term was up — Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer recommended that the Senate shouldn’t confirm any Bush nominee to the Supreme Court “except under extraordinary circumstances.” And, Republicans will never forgive Democrats for the circus-like confirmation hearings of Robert Bork and Clarence Thomas. They’ve been keen to return the favor when the balance of powers shifted their way. Even understanding these reasons, the GOP is playing with fire. Is this really a precedent they wish to set? Which of these men in his fourth or eighth year of his presidency would surrender his own nominating powers to a successor? And, finally, what if the next president is Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders? The GOP’s calculation, apparently, is that the greater risk lies in Obama’s nominating a reasonably moderate liberal who passes all the usual tests that Republicans can’t rationally block. If Obama were feeling frisky, he might select a Hispanic or Asian judge, thus helping ensure that the Republican “Big Tent” collapses from the weight of emptiness. All things considered, it may seem wiser to avoid the advise-and-consent process, but hypocrisy takes no prisoners. You can’t attach yourself to Scalia’s originalist virtues and also ignore the rule of law he so passionately defended. Scalia’s advice might be his own reflections on being a good and faithful judge: “You have to resign yourself to the fact that you’re not always going to like the conclusions you reach.”

ccording to Sen. Elizabeth Warren, the future of the republic teeters in the balance. Unless the United States Senate bows to the will of President Barack Obama and approves his replacement for Justice Antonin Scalia on the Supreme Court, everything we hold dear will be lost. A refusal to get with the program, Warren insists, “would threaten both the Constitution and our democracy itself. It would also prove that all the Republican talk Rich about loving the Lowry Constitution is just that — empty talk.” This is the twisted view now prevalent on the Left and in the media: It reads Article II of the Constitution giving the president the power to appoint justices with “the advice and consent” of the Senate as, in effect, an affirmative obligation on the Senate to consider and approve the president’s nominees. Might this wholly fanciful constitutional exegesis have something to do with a desire to replace Scalia, a giant of originalism, with another progressive rubber stamp? Cut to Sen. Chuck Schumer, a giant of clever partisan manipulations. Back in 2007, the New York Democrat all but pledged his life and sacred honor to blocking any further George W. Bush appointments to the Supreme Court — and somehow democracy survived. Of course, Barack Obama can nominate whomever he likes to the Supreme Court. Of course, the Senate can block him or her. And of course, Democrats can call Republicans heedless obstructionists and try to turn the public against them. This is the natural contest between the political branches, which is a feature of the U.S. Constitution, not a bug. At the fault line between the two elected branches, the nomination process is inherently political, and, inevitably, tensions will be highest when a president is about to leave office. Josh Blackman of the South Texas College of Law found that the most recent examples of a president getting an election-year nominee through a Senate held by the opposing party were 1988 (Ronald Reagan got Anthony Kennedy after the re-

jection of Robert Bork) and then all the way back in 1880 (Rutherford B. Hayes got William Burnham Woods). The Congressional Research Service looked at rejected Supreme Court nominees a few years ago and concluded, “Opposition to the nominating President played a role in at least 16 of the 36 nominations that were not confirmed. Many of the 16 were put forward by a President in the last year of his presidency — seven occurred after a successor President had been elected, but before the transfer of power to the new administration.” (In the 19th century, there was a much longer gap between the presidential election and the new president taking office.) No doubt, Republicans will take heat for simply saying “no” to another Obama appointee to the Court. But there will be none of the faux drama of a government shutdown, when the national parks are shackled and the media acts as if America’s national life is on the verge of collapse. The country will be able to survive some 4–4 Supreme Court decisions, which affirm the lowercourt decision. This is a chance for the Senate, in behalf of the prerogatives of Congress, to show some institutional self-respect. It owes President Obama no deference or consideration. He has trampled on the legislative power at every opportunity, including attempting to deem the Senate in recess on his own say-so (he lost the resulting Supreme Court case 9–0). His unconstitutional immigration and clean-power directives both have been held in abeyance by the courts. If President Obama wanted a collegial relationship with the Republican Senate, he should have thought of that long ago, and if didn’t want to lose the Senate, he should have moderated his stances. Now, he will pronounce himself shocked and saddened that Congress doesn’t want to hold his coat while he remakes the high court. The Senate should hold firm, and let Elizabeth Warren and her colleagues rend their garments and gnash their teeth. Rich Lowry is the editor of National Review. He can be reached via email: comments.lowry@nationalreview.com. © 2016 King Features Syndicate.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR WRITER CHANNELS TRUMP TO DELIVER MESSAGE TO VOTERS Hey, you stupid South Carolina voters! I’m going to tell you about my presidential campaign in real simple terms so you dummies can understand it. First of all, I’m much smarter and more experienced than all the losers I’m running against, plus they lie all the time and cheat. I might even sue that jerk Ted Cruz; what a loser! Look. I’m a big deal and I make

big deals. And I always win; everybody loses to me because I get along with everybody and I’m loved by all. I could probably shoot one of you dummies and you’d still vote for me. And George Bush lied us into that Iraq war; who needs more Bushes. I’ll bet you can’t wait until I’m your President. It will be uuuge! Won’t you be proud when I’m in the White House? Admit it, dummies! RICHARD METZ Sumter

WHO REPRESENTS YOU? SUMTER COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 Naomi D. Sanders 5605 Borden Road Rembert, SC 29128 (803) 499-3947 (home) DISTRICT 2 Artie Baker 3680 Bakersfield Lane Dalzell, SC 29040 803-469-3638 (home) DISTRICT 3 James Byrd Jr. 13 E. Canal St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 468-1719 (mobile) (803) 778-0796 (office) (803) 436-2108 (Fax) jbyrd@sumtercountysc.org DISTRICT 4 Charles T. Edens 760 Henderson St. Sumter, SC 29150

(803) 775-0044 (home) (803) 236-5759 (mobile) DISTRICT 5 Vivian Fleming-McGhaney 9770 Lynches River Road Lynchburg, SC 29080 (803) 437-2797 (home) (803) 495-3247 (office) DISTRICT 6 James T. McCain Jr. 317 W. Bartlette St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-2353 (home) (803) 607-2777 (mobile) DISTRICT 7 Eugene Baten P.O. Box 3193 Sumter, SC 29151 (803) 773-0815 (home) SUMTER CITY COUNCIL MAYOR Joseph T. McElveen Jr. 20 Buford St.

Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-3259 cyates@sumter-sc.com Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-0382 jmcelveen@sumter-sc.com WARD 1 Thomas J. Lowery 829 Legare St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-9298 tlowery@sumter-sc.com WARD 2 Ione Dwyer P.O. Box 1492 Sumter, SC 29151 (803) 481-4284 idwyer@sumter-sc.com WARD 3 Calvin K. Hastie Sr. 810 S. Main St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 774-7776 chastie@sumter-sc.com WARD 4 Colleen Yates 437 W. Hampton Ave.

WARD 5 Robert Galiano 608 Antlers Drive Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 469-0005 bgaliano@sumter-sc.com WARD 6 David Merchant 26 Paisley Park Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-1086 dmerchant@sumter-sc.com STATE LAWMAKERS Rep. Grady Brown, D-Bishopville District 50 420 S. Main St. Bishopville, SC 29010 (803) 484-6832 (home) (803) 734-2934 (Columbia) Rep. Joe Neal, D-Hopkins District 70

P.O. Box 5 Hopkins, SC 29061 (803) 776-0353 (home) (803) 734-9142 (fax) (803) 734-2804 (Columbia) jn@schouse.org Rep. Dr. Robert L. Ridgeway III, D-Clarendon District 64 117 N. Brooks St. Manning, SC 29102 (803) 938-3087(home) (803) 212-6929 (Columbia) Rep. Murrell Smith Jr., R-Sumter District 67 P.O. Box 580 Sumter, SC 29151 (803) 778-2471 (business) (803) 778-1643 (fax) (803) 734-3042 (Columbia) murrellsmith@schouse.gov Rep. J. David Weeks, D-Sumter District 51 2 Marlborough Court Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 775-5856 (business)

(803) 734-3102 (Columbia)

(803) 327-1114

Sen. Gerald Malloy, D-Darlington District 29 1216 Salem Road Hartsville, SC 29550 (843) 339-3000 (803) 212-6148 (Columbia)

Rep. Jim Clyburn — 6th District 319 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-3315 1703 Gervais St. Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 799-1100 jclyburn@hr.house.gov

Sen. Kevin L. Johnson, D-Manning District 36 P.O. Box 156, Manning, 29102 (803) 435-8117 (home) (803) 212-6108 (Columbia) Sen. J. Thomas McElveen III, D-Sumter District 35 P. O. Box 57, Sumter, 29151 (803) 775-1263 (business (803) 212-6132 (Columbia) NATIONAL LAWMAKERS Rep. Mick Mulvaney — 5th District 1207 Longworth HOB Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-5501 531-A Oxford Drive Sumter, SC 29150

Sen. Lindsey Graham 290 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 (202) 224-5972 Midlands Regional Office 508 Hampton Street, Suite 202 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 933-0112 (main) Sen. Tim Scott 167 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 (202) 224-6121 (202) 228-5143 (fax) 1301 Gervais St., Suite 825 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 771-6112 (803) 771-6455 (fax)

A12

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

AROUND TOWN es by eight 19th and 20th cenThe General George L. Mabry Jr. tury female composers. Event Chapter 817, Military Order of is free and open to the public. the Purple Heart will meet at 6 Areatyou a Purple recipient? will be served. Refreshments p.m. today American Le- Heart gion Post 15, 34 S. Artillery The Lee County Branch NAACP Drive. This is a permanent will hold its annual Freedom change in the meeting place Fund Banquet Dinner at 6 p.m. but the group will continue to on Friday, Feb. 19, at the Lee meet on the third Thursday of Central High School cafeteria. each month. All Purple Heart Tickets are $25 at the door. recipients and those interestThe Lincoln High School Presered in associate membership vation Alumni Association will are invited. Call (803) 506meet at 4 p.m. on Sunday, 3120. Feb. 21, at the Lincoln High The Shepherd’s Center, 24 Coun- School cafeteria, 22 Council cil St., will offer public informaSt. Lincolnites, friends and tion sessions from 11 to 11:50 community members are ina.m. on Thursdays as follows: vited. Call (803) 968-4173. today, creating a living will / The Sumter County Education hospice; and March 3, COPD. Association-Retired will meet at Christina Blakley, registered noon on Feb. 24, 2016, at the nurse with Palmetto Health North HOPE Center, 904 N. Tuomey, will speak. Main St. Tickets for the assoClarendon School District One ciation’s April 29 banquet will will conduct free vision, hearing, be disbursed. Call Brenda speech and developmental Bethune at (803) 469-6588. screenings as part of a child The Sumter Branch NAACP’s Anfind effort to identify stunual Black History Program will dents with special needs. Screenings will be held from 9 be held at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 28, at St. Paul AME Bapa.m. to noon at the Summertist Church, 835 Plowden Mill ton Early Childhood Center, 8 Road. The Rev. Dr. James B. South St., Summerton, on the Blassingame will speak. following Thursdays: March Broken Wings, an eight-week 10; April 14; and May 12. Call grief support group hosted by Sadie Williams at (803) 485Amedisys Hospice Care, will 2325, extension 116. AARP will offer free tax prepara- be held from 10 a.m. to noon tion from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each Saturday from March 5 on Mondays and Wednesdays through April 23. Meetings will be held at the Amedisys through April 13 at the ShepHospice office, 198 E. Wesherd’s Center of Sumter, 24 Council St. Applicants are ad- mark Blvd., Suite 2, (803) 774vised to bring with them gov- 4036. There is no charge and the public is invited. ernment-issued photo IDs, Social Security cards and / or The 16th Annual Cavalier Pride Medicare cards for anyone in Auction will be held on Saturthe household, last year’s tax day, March 5, at Robert E. Lee Academy, 630 Cousar St., forms, W-2 and / or 1099 forms, and power of attorney Bishopville. Food will be certification forms if they are served from 5 to 7 p.m. Bidding will begin at 5:30 p.m. filing for someone else. Call with the first table closing at Henry Dinkins at (803) 4994990 or Lula King at (803) 316- 7 p.m. Silent and live auction tickets are $15 in advance 0772. and $20 at the door. The Sumter Combat Veterans Shaw Air Force Base will host the Group will meet at 10 a.m. on Shaw Air Expo open house and Friday, Feb. 19, at the South air show Saturday and Sunday, HOPE Center, 1125 S. LafayMay 21-22. The free event will ette Drive. All area veterans be open to the general public and active military are invitfrom 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. both ed. days. Visit www.shaw.af.mil/ The Lincoln High School Preserairexpo/ for more informavation Alumni Association will hold a dinner fundraiser from 11 tion. Also, “like” the Shaw Air Force Base Facebook page at a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 19, at the Lincoln High School https://www.facebook. com/20FighterWing/ for upgymnasium, 26 Council St. to-date information. Aerial Cost is $8 per plate and dindemonstration teams or perner will consist of grilled barformances will include: U.S. becue chicken or fried fish, Air Force Thunderbirds; U.S. seasoned rice, sweet pea, roll, dessert and a drink. Dine Army Black Daggers parachute demo; 20th Fighter in or take out. Call (803) 968Wing Air Power; F-16 Viper; 4173. USAF Heritage Flight; Canadi“Piano Music with a Feminine an Air Force CF-18; U.S. Navy Touch: Celebrating Women Com- F/A-18; Warbirds (historical posers in History” will be held military aircraft); and Gary at noon on Friday, Feb. 19, at Ward & Greg Connell. The the USC Sumter Nettles Audi- acts are not in order of pertorium. Jane Luther Smith will formance and are subject to lecture on and perform piecchange.

DAILY PLANNER

THE SUMTER ITEM

WEATHER

AccuWeather® ﬁve-day forecast for Sumter TODAY

TONIGHT

Plenty of sun

Clear

56°

31°

58° / 40°

68° / 48°

71° / 54°

69° / 50°

Chance of rain: 0%

Chance of rain: 5%

Chance of rain: 10%

Chance of rain: 60%

NNE 6-12 mph

E 3-6 mph

SE 4-8 mph

SW 8-16 mph

WSW 6-12 mph

SW 6-12 mph

TODAY’S SOUTH CAROLINA WEATHER

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Columbia 59/33

Sumter 56/31

IN THE MOUNTAINS

Myrtle Beach 56/35

Manning 56/31

Today: Plenty of sunshine. Winds light and variable. Clear. Friday: Sunny to partly cloudy. Winds south 4-8 mph.

Aiken 57/31

ON THE COAST

Charleston 60/37

Today: Plenty of sun; cooler. High 55 to 61. Friday: Sunny. High 52 to 61.

LAKE LEVELS Full pool 360 76.8 75.5 100

Lake Murray Marion Moultrie Wateree

58° 40° 59° 35° 82° in 1989 11° in 1958

SUN AND MOON 7 a.m. yest. 356.56 76.35 75.72 96.01

24-hr chg +0.02 +0.05 +0.04 +1.00

RIVER STAGES

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

Florence 55/30

Bishopville 55/30

SUMTER THROUGH 4 P.M. YESTERDAY

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

trace 4.08" 2.04" 6.38" 7.60" 5.98"

Rain and drizzle in the p.m.

Gaﬀney 53/28 Spartanburg 54/30

Greenville 55/31

LOCAL ALMANAC

MONDAY

Plenty of sunshine Warmer with clouds Turning cloudy and and sun warm

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

Temperature High Low Normal high Normal low Record high Record low

SUNDAY

Flood 7 a.m. 24-hr stage yest. chg 12 10.41 +0.07 19 4.40 -0.40 14 9.80 +1.10 14 5.26 +0.13 80 79.61 -0.21 24 12.09 -0.10

Sunrise 7:04 a.m. Moonrise 2:36 p.m.

Sunset Moonset

6:08 p.m. 3:53 a.m.

Full

Last

New

First

Feb. 22

Mar. 1

Mar. 8

Mar. 15

TIDES AT MYRTLE BEACH

Today Fri.

High 5:32 a.m. 5:58 p.m. 6:29 a.m. 6:53 p.m.

Ht. 3.1 2.7 3.1 2.8

Low Ht. 12:33 p.m. 0.0 --- --12:41 a.m. -0.3 1:27 p.m. -0.1

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 60/39/s 40/37/c 75/59/s 32/29/pc 77/60/s 68/50/pc 70/54/s 36/24/s 71/53/s 37/22/s 82/58/s 62/51/sh 40/25/s

Fri. Hi/Lo/W 64/47/s 56/39/pc 78/60/c 53/40/sh 79/61/c 69/50/s 76/57/s 40/37/pc 72/52/pc 43/35/c 84/57/c 61/48/r 43/38/pc

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 52/28/s 60/34/s 60/32/s 61/38/s 44/34/s 60/37/s 53/30/s 57/34/s 59/33/s 54/30/s 45/26/s 54/28/s 53/27/s

Fri. Hi/Lo/W 52/38/s 62/42/s 63/41/s 61/44/s 49/40/pc 61/43/s 55/42/s 58/42/s 60/42/s 55/37/s 49/38/s 56/38/s 54/39/s

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 55/30/s 68/42/s 53/28/s 51/28/s 58/34/s 49/28/s 55/31/s 52/28/s 57/41/s 63/43/s 64/38/s 63/35/s 59/36/s

Fri. Hi/Lo/W 56/39/s 71/45/s 55/41/s 54/39/s 60/40/s 52/39/s 56/40/s 53/38/s 57/45/s 68/44/pc 67/43/s 66/41/s 63/44/s

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 54/25/s 58/39/s 56/35/s 57/32/s 59/40/s 50/27/s 53/29/s 53/27/s 63/38/s 54/30/s 58/34/s 56/31/s 49/29/s

Fri. Hi/Lo/W 54/35/s 58/43/s 52/42/s 59/39/s 59/44/s 52/40/s 55/40/s 54/37/s 64/43/s 55/40/s 59/40/s 54/39/s 52/39/s

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

ODDITIES

Dutch tourist survives tiger attack

PUBLIC AGENDA CLARENDON SCHOOL DISTRICT 3 Today, 7:30 p.m., district office, Turbeville

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Work alone if EUGENIA LAST that’s what it takes to get things done your way. Don’t wait around for help -- do what you want to do quickly and efficiently to avoid being questioned. Keep a secret to avoid opposition or interference.

The last word in astrology

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Try to get along with your peers to avoid a problem at work. Refrain from making personal changes to the way you look or what you believe in. Wait until you are certain about what you want to do before taking action. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Check out new job opportunities. Consider how your skills and talents can fit into the current economic trends and market yourself accordingly. Showing affection and charm will win favors from someone you love. Travel plans should be made. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Revisit the past and document the things you want to remember. Make a change at home that will give you more space or result in more people or pets living with you. Don’t be afraid to do things differently. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You could use a change. Whether you decide to go on sabbatical or just a short vacation, it will do you good. You need time to yourself in order to make a wise choice about your future prospects. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Get out and have some fun. Take part in events that you are interested in and make a difference. Good fortune will arise through the people you meet. Express your emotions and take positive action.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Make plans. This is not the time to sit around waiting for people and things to come to you. Use your charm and intelligence to get ahead. Network and you will make an impression that will lead to greater confidence and better partnerships. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Travel, attend an exhibit or sign up for a self-awareness course, and you will meet unusual people and discover alternative ways to put your talents to good use. Don’t miss out because someone is unwilling to take part. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Make a choice not to overspend or indulge. Put your money in a safe place and refuse to let anyone talk you into doing something foolish. Romance is highlighted, but shouldn’t put you in debt. You can’t buy love. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Do whatever it takes to impress someone who can help you change your financial or legal status. A little extra thought regarding how you can be more entertaining will help you attract promising job offers.

KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — A Dutch tourist who survived a tiger attack in the jungles of southwestern Nepal over the weekend by climbing a tree said Monday that he’s lucky to be alive and will now have a story to tell when he returns home. Gerard Van Laar said he was attacked by the tiger when he and his Nepalese guide were hiking in Bardia National Park on Saturday. “I was super lucky to be alive. I would have been dead if it had not been for Krishna (the guide),” Laar said by phone from Bardia,

about 250 miles southwest of Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. “All of a sudden, I heard a roar and a growl, and the tiger was heading toward us at full speed,” said Laar, who has been travelling in Nepal since last month. He was able to escape by climbing a tree, but his guide was attacked and slightly injured as he ran away to draw the attention of the tiger. The tiger returned and circled the tree while Laar tried to stay as quiet as possible about 20 feet above the

ground. About two hours later, the guide arrived back with help and they shouted and used sticks to drive away the tiger. The guide was hospitalized for a day, but Laar was not hurt. The 33-year-old freelance engineer from Dedemsvaart, Netherlands, said he thought he would be killed until he was able to climb the tree. Bardia, a protected national forest, is home to about 70 tigers. It is popular and receives thousands of visitors a year, but tiger attacks are rare.

PICTURES FROM THE PUBLIC Jeff Byer shares a photo he took while visiting Carolina Beach State Park, which is located on Cape Fear River just south of Wilmington, North Carolina.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Take a break in order to figure out how you want to move forward. Life changes have sent you into a tailspin, and taking time to assess, regroup and make wise choices will be in your best interest. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You’ll be forced to reevaluate your past and present in order to build a brighter future. Don’t be afraid to start over. New beginning may be difficult, but can also be rejuvenating. Clear the way to freedom and good fortune.

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

Thursday, February 18, 2016 Call: (803) 774-1241 | E-mail: sports@theitem.com

PREP BASKETBALL

Out-foxed by Gamecocks Big 2nd half, pressure defense and effort on the boards lift Sumter to 64-47 playoff victory against Dutch Fork

BY JUSTIN DRIGGERS justin@theitem.com Sumter High School’s boys basketball team outshot Dutch Fork in the third quarter of Wednesday’s firstround 4A state playoff game -- outshot and outscored. The Gamecocks also outrebounded, out-hustled, outpressured and out-everything else as well. Bolstered by a 15-2 run in the frame and a near 30point fourth quarter, SHS rolled in the second half en route to a 64-47 win over the Silver Foxes at the Sumter High gymnasium. The Gamecocks, now 16-6 overall, will host West Ashley on Saturday at 7 p.m. West Ashley defeated Lexington 72-61. Dutch Fork finished the year at 12-11. “The pressure wore them down,” Sumter head coach Shawn Jones said of his squad’s defense. “That’s what we do. We’ve got enough guys that get out there and just wear them down.” SHS held Dutch fork to just two points in the third quarter after trailing by four at the half. Cedric Rembert scored seven of his teamhigh 16 points in the period and the Gamecocks connected on a trio of 3-point baskets to bolster the lead. The biggest difference, though, was rebounding. After being fairly even in the first half, Sumter crashed the boards hard in the second half -- especially on the offensive end. SHS had the edge in rebounding by a 36-22 margin and 15 of those were on the offensive side. “We started off slow, but once we all got on the same page, we started building off RICK CARPENTER / THE SUMTER ITEM each other,” said Jaylenn Sumter’s Jaylenn Corbett (22) tries to get a shot off while being defended by Dutch Fork’s Jordan Corbett, who led Sumter Warlick, right, during the Gamecocks’ 64-47 victory on Wednesday at the SHS gymnasium in the first with nine rebounds. “We round of the 4A state playoffs. came together much better in the second half. It was just The Gamecocks had plenty Charles Patton added 13 basket with five of them effort. Rebounding, defense, of offense and defense across points with eight coming in scoring five points or more. offense -- it was just all betthe board. Rembert finished the final eight minutes. SHS Please see SUMTER, Page B3 ter in the second half.” with eight rebounds while had nine players find the

PREP BASEBALL

Sumter High’s Barnes gets opening day start for Tigers BY JUSTIN DRIGGERS justin@theitem.com Charlie Barnes’ freshman season with the Clemson University baseball team likely wasn’t what he had envisioned. The former Sumter High School and Sumter P-15’s standout had two starts and over 10 innings under his belt by mid-March of 2015, but was relegated to bullpen soon after and tossed just under 14 innings the rest of the season. “Yeah, I mean it was definitely frustrating, but there’s nothing you can do,” Barnes said in a Tuesday interview on TigerNet.com. “It’s baseball, that’s how things happen. You just got to put your head down and keep working every day and good things will happen.” Good things -- like an opening day start the following season. First-year Clemson head coach Monte Lee announced that Barnes will start the Tigers’ season opener against Maine on Friday at 4 p.m. at Doug

Kingsmore Stadium. “I think Barnes is a tremendous competitor,” Lee said on TigerNet.com. “Nobody likes facing a left-hander, typically. Barnes is one of those guys that has a lot of pitchability. We know he’s going to go out there and pound strikes and compete as hard as he can. “He’s one of those guys who gives us a great chance for a quality start in Game 1.” With the departures of Matthew Crownover and Zack Erwin, the top spots in the Tigers’ rotation were up for grabs heading into this year, and Barnes and Clate Schmidt became the frontrunners. “I was in a good spot,” Barnes said. “It was fun battling with Clate. It was a good, friendly competition between me and him to see who could get it. So it was a lot of fun to just get out there and pitch.” Lee and his staff decided to go with Barnes, in part to set up a lefty-rightylefty top of the rotation with Schmidt and freshman Jake Higginbotham.

BRADLEY MOORE / CLEMSON ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

Former Sumter High and Sumter P-15’s standout Charlie Barnes will get the opening day start for Clemson on Friday when the Tigers open the 2016 season against see BARNES, Page B4 Maine at Doug Kingsmore Stadium.

PREP BASKETBALL

TSA girls get bye in 1st round of playoffs SCISA tourneys start Friday, Saturday BY DENNIS BRUNSON dennis@theitem.com The Thomas Sumter Academy varsity girls basketball team is the only one of the six local boys and girls basketball teams to get a bye in the first round of the SCISA 3A state playoffs, which begin on Friday at sites around the state. The Lady Generals, who won the Region II regular-season and tournament titles and are 20-3 on the season, won’t play until Tuesday when the 3A tournament moves to Sumter Civic Center the rest of the way. TSA, the upper No. 2 seed, will take on the winner of Friday’s game between upper No. 3 and Porter-Gaud and upper No. 6 Heathwood Hall at 5 p.m. The Wilson Hall and Laurence Manning Academy girls teams will play first-round games on Friday. The 16-9 Lady Barons are the lower No. 3 seed and will take on No. 6 Cardinal Newman at 6:30 p.m. at Sumter Civic Center. The winner of that game will tak on lower No. 2 Pinewood Prep on Tuesday at 8 p.m. in Sumter. LMA, the upper No. 5 seed, will meet upper No. 4 First Baptist at 7:30 p.m. on Friday in Charleston at PorterGaud’s main gymnasium. The winner of that game will face upper No. 1 seed Hammond on Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. in Sumter.

Please see SCISA, Page B2

CLEMSON BASKETBALL

Blossomgame scores 23 to lead Clemson to win over Eagles By PETE IACOBELLI The Associated Press GREENVILLE — Jaron Blossomgame scored 23 points and Clemson kept its long-shot NCAA tournament hopes alive with a 65-54 victory over Boston College on Wednesday. The Tigers (16-10, 9-5 Atlantic Coast Conference) trailed at the half and were down 43-42 with 12 minutes left before going on a 16-5 run to gain control and send the Eagles (7-19, 0-13) to their 13th straight loss. Clemson has more work to do if it wants to move into the NCAA field. Falling to struggling Boston College, though, would’ve been a death blow. Donte Grantham put the Tigers up for good, 45-43, with a 3-pointer before Blossomgame’s two foul shots. Grantham, Avry Holmes and Blossomgame each hit 3-pointers to give the Tigers a 58-48 lead that the Eagles could not overcome. Boston College leading scorer Eli Carter was 1-of-17 shooting to end with 5 points, 11 fewer than his season’s average. Dennis Clifford had 17 points to lead the Eagles. Holmes scored 17 points and Grantham 10 for Clemson. Blossomgame added six rebounds with two blocked shots and had his seventh game in the last nine contests scoring 20 or more points. Carter’s performance continued a late-season slide for the Florida transfer.

see CLEMSON, Page B3

sports

The SUMTER ITEM

Thursday, February 18, 2016

sumter

“Lot of balanced scoring tonight, so I’m happy with that,” Jones said. “(Dutch Fork) did a lot of good things against us in the first half but we adjusted to it handled it well.” The defending 4A champs also handled Silver Fox leading scorer Jordan Davis well. He lead DFHS with 14 points, but only had seven through the first three quarters. Bryson Cannon also added 10 points for Dutch Fork, “We definitely had an eye on him,” Jones said of Davis, who was named the SCBCA 4A Player of the Year earlier on Wednesday. “He’s what makes them go and he a big 3-pointer in the first half, but I think we kept the ball out of his for the most part in the second half.” Zykiem Jackson added nine points for Sumter and Corbett followed with eight. “We were just trying to get high-percentage shots (in the second half),” Corbett said. “We were trying to get it into the paint. We got some outside shots, but we wanted to get it inside and try and maintain the lead.”

From Page B1

He had just 2 points four games ago, then 7 points in a loss to Syracuse last time out. Against Clemson, Carter missed all seven of his three-point tries. Boston College surpassed its previous worst losing streak of 12, set in 1999-2000 as members of the Big East Conference and matched last time out. This was supposed to be a Clemson runaway, the Tigers looking to build momentum to continue a surprising ACC season. Instead, the Eagles kept firing away — and hitting

SCHSL STATE PLAYOFFS

From Page B1

CLEMSON

RICK CARPENTER / THE SUMTER ITEM

Sumter’s Cedric Rembert, left, shoots over Dutch Fork’s Jordan Davis during the Gamecocks’ 64-47 victory on Wednesday at the SHS gymnasium in the first round of the 4A state playoffs.

big shots. Boston College made 13 of 28 shots in the opening half after entering dead last in ACC field-goal shooting. The Eagles were 6 of 14 from behind the arc, coming in 13th in that category in ACC play. In this one, Boston College rallied from nine points down early to grab a 34-31 halftime lead on Sammy Barnes-Thompkins’ second 3-pointer of the period with 47 seconds left. And the Eagles did it with Carter (16.1 points a game) in a first-half funk: He went 0-of-7 with zero points. Clemson, meanwhile, struggled to make shots. Starting forward Grantham was 1 of 7 while the starting

backcourt of Holmes and Jordan Roper combined to go 2 of 6 from the floor.

CLEMSON 65, BOSTON COLLEGE 54

BOSTON COLLEGE (7-19) Clifford 8-12 0-0 17, Owens 3-5 0-0 7, Carter 1-17 3-3 5, Hicks 1-3 0-0 3, Milon 1-3 0-0 3, Barnes-Thompkins 5-8 2-2 14, Meznieks 1-4 0-0 3, Diallo 1-2 0-0 2. Totals 21-54 5-5 54. CLEMSON (16-10) Blossomgame 9-17 4-4 23, Holmes 4-8 7-8 17, Grantham 3-10 1-2 10, Nnoko 3-6 0-1 6, Roper 1-4 0-0 3, DeVoe 2-8 0-0 6, Djitte 0-1 0-2 0. Totals 22-54 12-17 65. Halftime—Boston College 34-31. 3-Point Goals—Boston College 7-23 (Barnes-Thompkins 2-4, Owens 1-2, Clifford 1-2, Hicks 1-2, Milon 1-2, Meznieks 1-4, Carter 0-7), Clemson 9-25 (Grantham 3-7, Holmes 2-5, DeVoe 2-6, Blossomgame 1-3, Roper 1-4). Fouled Out—Owens. Rebounds—Boston College 32 (Clifford 8), Clemson 37 (Blossomgame, Nnoko 8). Assists—Boston College 12 (Carter 6), Clemson 14 (Holmes 5). Total Fouls—Boston College 19, Clemson 9. A—8,101.

AREA ROUNDUP

Stallions open playoffs with win BISHOPVILLE – Lee Central High School’s varsity boys basketball team opened the 2A state playoffs with a 71-46 victory over Waccamaw on Wednesday at the LC gymnasium. The Stallions, who improved to 14-9 on the season, led 20-5 after the first quarter and increased the lead to 36-14 at halftime. Demarcus Smith and Daequan Thomas both has 12 points to lead Lee Central. Niquan Riddick added 11 and Kendrick Holloman had 10. Justin Busby led Waccamaw with 15 points and Kenley Vereen had 11. LC will play host to either Academic Magnet or Edisto at 7 p.m. on Saturday in a second round.

WACCAMAW Busby 15, Vereen 11, Bryant 8, Frank 7, Hewitt 2, Lucas 2, Heimburger 1. LEE CENTRAL Smith 12, Thomas 12, Riddick 11, Holloman 10, Cooper 6, Austin 5, McDowell 4, Simmons 2, Nixon 2, Brown 1.

Carvers Bay 73 Scott’s Branch 46 GEORGETOWN – Scott’s Branch lost to Carvers Bay 73-46 on Tuesday in the first round of the 1A state playoffs at the CB gymnasium. Chauncey Aiken led the Eagles with 10 points. Marquez Hunt had nine. Arkel Williams led Carvers Bay with 17 points and nine rebounds. Dijon Goss added 16 and DJ Goss had 11.

Girls

BOYS

First Round 4A Tuesday Upper State (1) Rock Hill 66, (4) Greenwood 46 (3) Westwood 43, (2) Wade Hampton 41 (1) Greenville 58, (4) Fort Mill 37 (2) Ridge View 89, (3) Spartanburg 53 (1) Spring Valley 75, (4) Byrnes 43 (2) Westside 74, (3) Nation Ford 47 (1) Dorman 79, (4) Woodmont 35 (3) T.L. Hanna 64, (2) Gaffney 61 Lower State (1) Goose Creek, 61, (4) White Knoll 44 (2) Conway 60, (3) Fort Dorchester 44 (1) North Augusta 76, (4) James Island 39 (3) Socastee 41, (2) Summerville 37 (1) Ashley Ridge 71, (4) West Florence 39 (2) Lexington 52, (3) West Ashley 45 (1) Sumter 74, (4) Dutch Fork 42 (3) Irmo 49, (2) Wando 36

First Round 4A Wednesday Upper State (4) T.L. Hanna at (1) Fort Mill (3) Ridge View at (2) Spartanburg (4) Clover at (1) Westside (3) Wade Hampton at (2) Spring Valley (4) Dorman at (1) Blythewood (3) Gaffney at (2) Laurens (4) J.L. Mann at (1) Byrnes (3) Hillcrest at (2) Nation Ford Lower State (4) North Augusta at (1) James Island (3) Bluffton at (2) Carolina Forest (4) Goose Creek at (1) Irmo (3) West Florence at (2) Summerville (4) South Florence at (1) Fort Dorchester (3) Wando at (2) South Aiken (4) Dutch Fork at (1) Sumter (3) Lexington at (2) West Ashley 3A Tuesday Upper State (1) Seneca 94, (4) Chester 64 (3) Richland Northeast 46, (2) Southside 43 (1) South Pointe 74, (4) Walhalla 44 (2) Lower Richland 52, (3) Eastside 43 (1) Berea 61, (4) Camden 59 (3) Union County 62, (2) Daniel 60 (1) A.C. Flora 65, (4) Emerald 44 (2) Lancaster 61, (3) Wren 56 Lower State (1) Beaufort 53, (4) Aiken 50 (2) Wilson 74, (3) Crestwood 72 (1) Midland Valley 69, (4) Berkeley 42 (2) Darlington 75, (3) Myrtle Beach 37 (4) Lakewood 55, (1) North Myrtle Beach 46 (3) Brookland-Cayce 56, (2) Hanahan 48 (1) Marlboro County 64, (4) St. James 48 (2) Airport 57, (3) OrangeburgWilkinson 17 2A Wednesday Upper State (4) Saluda at (1) Blacksburg (3) Newberry at (2) Indian Land (4) Carolina at (1) Abbeville (3) Cheraw at (2) Fairfield Central (4) Buford at (1) Keenan (3) Pendleton at (2) Strom Thurmond (4) Columbia at (1) Andrew Jackson (3) Ninety Six at (2) Landrum Lower State (4) Whale Branch at (1) RidgelandHardeeville (3) Andrews at (2) Mullins (4) Wade Hampton at (1) Battery Creek (3) Marion at (2) Lee Central/Timberland (4) Waccamaw at (1) Lee Central/ Timberland (3) Edisto at (2) Academic Magnet (4) Lake Marion at (1) Dillon (3) Bishop England at (2) Silver Bluff 1A Tuesday Upper State (1) Calhoun Falls 47, (4) Southside Christian 46 (2) Ridge Spring-Monetta 52, (3) Lewisville 47 (1) Christ Church 76, (4) Whitmire 33 (2) C.A. Johns 66, (3) Hunter-Kinard-Tyler 46 (1) McBee 59, (4) Blackville-Hilda 49 (2) St. Joseph’s 53, (3) Dixie 34 (1) Calhoun County 92, (4) Lamar 38 (1) Fox Creek 54, (3) Greenville Tech 47 Lower State (1) Denmark-Olar 66, (4) St. John’s 48 (2) Carvers Bay 78, (3) Scott’s Branch 48 (1) Charleston M & S 73, (4) Bamberg-Ehrhardt 50 (2) C.E. Murray 76, (3) Latta 75 (1) Hannah-Pamplico 92, (4) Green Sea-Floyds 55 (2) Burke 61, (3) Allendale-Fairfax 58 (1) Hemingway 74, (4) Timmonsville 47 (2) Branchville 75, (3) Cross 49

3A Monday and Tuesday Upper State (1) Wren 66, (4) Broome 46 (2) Greer 70, (3) Chapin 42 (1) Lancaster 71, (4) Seneca 48 (2) Lower Richland 79, (3) Emerald 18 (1) Eastisde 47, (4) Richland Northeast 38 (2) Belton-Honea Path 73, (3) Chester 51 (1) Dreher 104, (4) Travelers Rest 32 (2) South Pointe 54, (3) West Oak 33 Lower State (1) Orangeburg-Wilkinson 65, (4) Swansea 28 (2) Wilson 73, (3) Hartsville 65 (1) Midland Valley 75, (4) Beaufort 32 (2) Manning 56, (3) St. James 48 (1) Myrtle Beach 46, (4) Lakewood 29 (2) Stall 56, (3) Airport 45 (1) Crestwood 53, (4) North Myrtle Beach 27 (2) Aiken 46, (3) Berkeley 34 2A Tuesday Upper State (1) Pendleton 66, (4) Ninety Six 48 (3) Fairfield Central 60, (2) Indian Land 38 (1) Saluda 63, (4) Powdersville 24 (2) Newberry 71, (3) Buford 52 (1) Keenan 51, (4) Cheraw 37 (2) Strom Thurmond 49, (3) Landrum 44 (1) Andrew Jackson 56, (4) MidCarolina 35 (2) Woodruff 46, (3) BatesburgLeesville 42 Lower State (1) Ridgeland-Hardeeville 85, (4) Academic Magnet 14 (2) Dillon 66, (3) Lake Marion 17 (1) Bishop England 87, (4) Barnwell 22 (3) Waccamaw 26, (2) Timberland 25 (1) Lee Central 51, (4) Marion 36 (2) Battery Creek 70, (3) Edisto 44 (1) Mullins 90, (4) Andrews 5 (3) Whale Branch 38, (2) Wade Hampton 31 1A Monday and Tuesday Upper State (1) McCormick 66, (4) Greer MC 40 (2) Ridge Spring-Monetta 58, (3) McBee 31 (1) Christ Church 95, (4) Fox Creek 23 (3) North 62, (2) Lamar 52 (1) C.A. Johnson 89, (4) WagenerSalley 17 (3) Calhoun Falls 27, (2) Greenville Tech 26 (1) Calhoun County 72, (4) Lewisville 38 (3) Southside Christian 43, (2) Dixie 20 Lower State (4) Charleston Math and Science at (1) Estill (2) Carvers Bay 82, (3) Scott’s Branch 28 (1) Burke 48, (4) Allendale-Fairfax 36 (3) Hemingway 41, (2) C.E. Murray 36 (1) Timmonsville 70, (4) Green SeaFloyds 44 (2) Cross 56, (3) Denmark-Olar 44 (1) Latta 73, (4) Hannah-Pamplico 22 (2) Bethune-Bowman 53, (3) Baptist Hill 33

TOP 25 ROUNDUP

Brunson’s 25 points lead No. 1 Villanova over Temple PHILADELPHIA — Jalen Brunson scored a season-high 25 points against his dad’s old team, leading No. 1 Villanova over Temple 83-67 Wednesday night. Daniel Ochefu had 16 points and nine rebounds and Kris Jenkins added 15 points as the Wildcats (23-3) won their sixth in a row. Villanova took its 14th straight game in the Philadelphia Big 5 to claim its third consecutive city series title.

Penn State 79 (4) Iowa 75 STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — Donovon Jack scored 19 points on 8-of-9 shooting, and Penn State beat No. 4 Iowa 79-75 on Wednesday night. The Nittany Lions (13-13, 4-9 Big Ten) had lost five of six, but Shep Garner and Brandon Taylor had 18 points apiece in the school’s second victory over a Top 25 team in two weeks. Penn State also beat No. 22 Indiana 68-63 on Feb. 6.

Saint Joseph’s 79 (15) Dayton 70 PHILADELPHIA — DeAndre’ Bembry had 16 points and 13 rebounds, and Saint Joseph’s beat No. 15 Dayton 79-70 on Wednesday night for its fourth straight win. The Hawks had five players

score in double figures in their 11th victory in 12 games overall. Aaron Brown scored 14 points, and Isaiah Miles had 12 points — all in the second half — 12 rebounds and five assists.

(18) Louisville 72 Syracuse 58 LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Damion Lee scored 15 points, Trey Lewis added 14 and No. 18 Louisville pulled away in the second half to beat Syracuse 72-58 on Wednesday night. The Cardinals (20-6, 9-4 Atlantic Coast Conference) snapped a two-game slide, shooting 56 percent in the second half. They overcame a 3-of-14 shooting start to finish at 48 percent overall.

Xavier 85 (23) Providence 74 CINCINNATI — Trevon Bluiett scored 17 of his 23 points during Xavier’s big first half, and Myles Davis had a triple-double as the eighth-ranked Musketeers held on for an 85-74 victory over No. 23 Providence on Wednesday night. The Musketeers (23-3, 11-3 Big East) led for all but the opening minute as they piled up 52 points in the first half. Wire reports

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Thursday, February 18, 2016

The SUMTER ITEM

COLLEGE BASEBALL

Following exodus, SEC searches for baseball stars By DAVID BRANDT The Associated Press

lefty A.J. Puk. The Gators are one of the favorites to win the SEC after finishing with a 52-18 One year after dominating record last season. the top of the Major League Vanderbilt, LSU and Texas Baseball draft, the Southeastern A&M are among the teams exConference is searching for its pected to challenge the Gators next breakout stars. for the league title. The league had four of the Vanderbilt won the College first eight picks of last sumWorld Series two years and mer’s draft, including Vandermade the championship series bilt shortstop Dansby Swanson, last year before falling to VirLSU shortstop Alex Bregman, ginia. The Commodores lost Arkansas outfielder Andrew multiple stars from that team — Benintendi and Vanderbilt including Swanson and Fulmer pitcher Carson Fulmer. — but still return several expeMississippi State coach John rienced players, including outCohen believes that just gives fielders Bryan Reynolds and others the opportunity to step Jeren Kendall and pitchers Kyle forward. Wright and Jordan Sheffield. “There are some great playLSU has a deep pitching staff ers who left our league,” Cohen led by starters Jared Poche and said. “But there will be an allAlex Lange. Tigers’ coach Paul star cast that will step forward. Mainieri hopes those veterans It’s one of the great things can help stabilize the team about being in the SEC.” while his young lineup gets Many of the potential standsome more experience. outs are on the mound. “Our hitters had to face our Florida returns right-hander veteran pitchers all fall during Logan Shore and hard-throwing practice, and they didn’t swing

the bats poorly,” Mainieri said. “So I have cautious optimism.” Texas A&M’s lineup should be anchored by outfielder Nick Banks, who hit .364 last season with eight homers, 48 RBIs and nine stolen bases. Some things to watch in the SEC this spring:

LOADED FLORIDA Much has been made of the Gators’ pitching staff, which includes standouts like Shore and Puk. But the lineup also returns a considerable amount of talent, including sophomore J.J. Schwarz, who hit .332 last season with 18 homers and 73 runs batted in.

ALABAMA UPGRADE Alabama will be playing in an updated Sewell-Thomas Stadium this spring after a $42 million renovation. The program hopes it’s the boost it needs to push into the conference’s elite on a consistent basis.

File/AP

Florida’s Logan Shore (above) and Alex Faedoa are two key returnees for the Gators this season.

CONSISTENT VANDERBILT Vanderbilt coach Tim Corbin has built arguably the SEC’s most powerful program. The Commodores won the national title in 2014, nearly did it again last season and show no signs of

NASCAR’s major losers hopeful of major upset By DAN GELSTON ASsociated Press DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The 1962 New York Mets, the mid-70s Tampa Bay Bucs and the current Philadelphia 76ers have nothing on Casey Mears. The nephew of four-time Indianapolis 500 champion Rick Mears, Casey has a tortured losing streak that is closing in on 300 races. His chances of winning the Daytona 500 on Sunday are about as slim as the gap between cars in bumper-to-bumper pack racing. “I don’t like the stat that I have, the longest-running winless streak,” Mears said. “But I think a lot of those things drive you to push and work hard now to try to end that.” Don’t worry Mears, you actually don’t have the longest streak. According to STATS LLC, the longest active losing streaks in the Sprint Cup series by drivers attempting this year’s Daytona 500 are held by: — Bobby Labonte, 395 races. — David Gilliland, 330 races. — Mears, 296 races. — Reed Sorenson, 234 races. — Michael Waltrip, 218 races. Those are just a few of the of forlorn drivers who will trudge into “The Great American Race” without much expectation of pulling off The Big One and adding to the short list of upsets at Daytona International Speedway. With few exceptions, the majority of the long shots are on the wrong side of NASCAR’s power structure. They drive low-funded cars with inferior equipment and have inexperienced crews that put them in the hole before the green flag even drops. The days of an underdog like Alan Kulwicki scratching together the resources to win a championship, much less multiple races, are over. Cars owned by Roger Penske, Rick Hendrick, Stewart-Haas and Joe Gibbs won 35 of the 36 Cup points races last season. Martin Truex Jr. was the lone outlier, winning once for Furniture Row Racing. For some drivers, the thought of starting the engine knowing there was no chance of catching Jimmie and Junior — or even winless Danica — was a blow to their pride. Justin Allgaier went 0 for 75 in three

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Aric Arimola, left, and Casey Mears, right, are two Sprint Cup Series drivers that have struggled picking up victories heading into Sunday’s Daytona 500. years at the Cup level before dropping to the second-tier Xfinity Series. “I saw a side of myself that I didn’t necessarily like,” he said. “I started doing some things with the way I approached the track, and I didn’t like the way I was doing that. I’ve struggled to understand why it works the way it works with myself.” Greg Biffle was once one of NASCAR’s regular winners, getting to victory lane six times in 2005 and finishing fifth in the standings in 2012. He’s coming off back-to-back winless seasons for the first time in his Cup career. “Last year, unfortunately, we knew that next month we weren’t going to show up to the race track and win,” he said. “We didn’t have the cars to do it.” Mired in mediocrity, Biffle’s team underwent a major offseason overhaul that included a new crew chief to try and rediscover his winning ways. Mears has watched Germain Racing morph through the years into a potentially competitive team and he flashed some speed in Daytona qualifying. He had heavyweight ownership behind

him early in his career before he bounced around with the have-nots. He failed to qualify for the 2010 Daytona 500 driving for a start-and-park team. The start-and-park teams were NASCAR’s equivalent of tanking, fielding a noncompetitive car in hopes of guaranteed cash and little risk of destroying parts. With a new charter system in place, that ignominious era of early exits has largely been drummed out of the series. “It’s the worst thing you’ve ever done as a competitor,” Mears said. “I don’t know how you do it, but you have to because you want to continue to be in the sport.” But much like that 2-15 matchup in the NCAA Tournament, there is still a glimmer that — on any given Sunday at Daytona — there is hope. Waltrip went 462 races without a victory before winning the 2001 Daytona 500. Trevor Bayne, driving in this year’s field, pulled one of NASCAR’s biggest stunners at Daytona in 2011. Derrike Cope — who? — won the 1990 Daytona 500.

SPORTS ITEMS

Crestwood to hold alumni baseball, softball games Crestwood High School will hold alumni baseball and softball games on Saturday at 2 p.m. at the school’s facilities. The 2016 baseball and softball teams will take on the alumni teams in the fundraiser games for the programs. There will also be a baseball home run derby before the game. Admission is $3 per person and concessions will be available. Any interested alumni can contact baseball head coach Mike Kremer at (803) 469-6200 Ext. 4001 or softball head coach Thomas Nickens at (803) 469-6200 Ext. 7162.

Cleveland to honor Brown with statue outside of stadium CLEVELAND — The

Browns are honoring Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown with a statue outside their stadium. Considered one of the greatest players in NFL history, Brown said he’s humbled by the honor which was announced on his 80th birthday. The sculpture of Brown will be unveiled outside FirstEnergy Stadium later this year. Brown spent his entire career with the Browns, who drafted him in 1957. A ninetime Pro Bowl selection and three-time league MVP, Brown finished with 12,312 yards before retiring in 1965 at the peak of his career. He led the league in rushing in eight of his nine seasons. His iconic No. 32 was retired by Cleveland. Brown

was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971. Brown has worked as a special adviser to owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam for the past few years.

taurant on Jan. 23.

Grizzlies send Lee to Charlotte in 3-team deal

CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Hornets acquired veteran swingman Courtney Lee from the Grizzlies in a threeBlake Griffin apologizes team trade that will help bolfor punching Clippers ster the team’s perimeter staff member shooting and defense after LOS ANGELES — Blake losing Michael Kidd-GilGriffin has apologized for christ for the season to a punching a Los Angeles Clip- shoulder injury. pers staff member last The Grizzlies got forward month, saying he wishes he P.J. Hairston from Charlotte could take back the incident and big man Chris Andersen that left him with a broken and two second-round draft right hand and the employee picks from the Heat, who with facial injuries. will get guard Brian Roberts Griffin was suspended four from Charlotte. games and docked five The three teams confirmed games’ pay totaling $859,442 the trade Tuesday night. for the altercation with Matias Testi at a Toronto resThe Associated Press

stopping anytime soon. Corbin has to replace more talent than most — the Commodores lost three first-round MLB draft picks in June — but recent history indicates Vanderbilt will be a contender once again.

barnes

From Page B1

“We wanted to try to split (Maine’s) lineup a little bit and go lefty then righty,” Lee said. “I think (that combination) can do some different things to a lineup from one game to the next.” However, Lee stressed that it wasn’t just the matchup that gave Barnes the edge. He considers the Tigers to have two staff aces. “We debated it and felt fine going either way,” Lee said. “I felt they were 1A and 1B so to speak.” Barnes’ stock has risen greatly since last season. He had a 1-2 record with a 3.38 earned run average in 12 appearances. In 24 innings, he allowed 26 hits with eight walks and 23 strikeouts. In 16 2/3 innings of relief work, he was 1-0 with a 1.62 ERA. He allowed nine hits, no earned runs and allowed one walk with four strikeouts. It was over the summer, though, that Barnes started to really get into a groove. Pitching for the Lexington County Blowfish of the Coastal Plain League, the left-hander went 3-2 with a 2.92 ERA in seven starts (37 IP). He struck out 37 and walked just three. “I had a good summer,” Barnes said. “I went out there and got some good, quality innings. It was good just to get out there and see other (Atlantic Coast Conference) hitters, other college hitters. I really just got a lot of confidence from that. “Coming into the fall I knew we obviously lost a lot with our rotation pretty much being wiped out, so it was kind of my time to take that next step forward and be what the team needs.” The former SHS ace believes he has a 3-pitch mix to be successful this season. Barnes’ fastball tops out in the high 80s (miles per hour) and he has a changeup to get righties out and a curveball to lock up lefties. “I feel like I have a pretty good mix -- that I can mix offspeed and throw all three of my pitches for strikes at any time,” he said. “I feel I can do that and spot my fastball pretty well.” His biggest key will be just to attack hitters, he said. “Just try not to walk anyone and keep the ball low, get ground balls, flyballs and let my defense go to work,” Barnes said. There might be a few butterflies as Barnes gets ready to toe the rubber on Friday, but once the game starts, those will go away, he said. “I’ll probably be a little nervous during the national anthem, that’s usually when it happens,” Barnes said. “But (after) the first pitch, I should be ready to roll. “I think it will be good, opening weekend, try to come out and throw well for the team and just try to get the season started on the right foot.”

OBITUARIES

THE SUMTER ITEM

RONALD S. ROBERSON SUMMERTON — Ronald Seabrook Roberson, 75, husband of Joyce Floyd Roberson of 50 years, died on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016, at his residence. Born on June 8, 1940, in Alcolu, he was a son of the late James Montallion Roberson and Annie Covington Driggers Roberson. He was a charter member of Southern Methodist Church of Summerton. He ROBERSON was a retired engineer with the railroad and a U.S. Air Force veteran. He is survived by his wife of Summerton; a daughter, Sherri Roberson McInnis (Neil) of Summerton; a granddaughter, Peyton McInnis of Summerton; a brother, Sanford Roberson (Ann) of Lake Junaluska, North Carolina; three sisters, Pauline Evans of Lynchburg, Sadie Duke of New Zion and Connie Martens (Steve) of Summerton; and numerous nieces, nephews and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by a son, Doyle S. Roberson; a brother, Lloyd Bethea Roberson; and a sister, Azalee Roberson Bodenheimer. A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday at Southern Methodist Church of Summerton with the Rev. Mike Watson officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church and other times at the residence, 14 Caldwell St., Summerton, SC 29148. The family would like to express their appreciation to his caregivers with the Palmetto Health Tuomey Bridge Program. The family requests that memorials be made to Southern Methodist Church of Summerton, 1107 Felton Road, Summerton, SC 29148, or to a charity of one’s choice. Stephens Funeral Home & Crematory, 304 N. Church St., Manning, is in charge of arrangements, (803) 435-2179. www.stephensfuneralhome.org

VERMELL EDWARDS Funeral services for Vermell Edwards will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday at High Hills AME Church, 6780 Meeting House Road, Dalzell, with the Rev. Stanley Rivers officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Public viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Palmer Memorial Chapel, 304 S. Main St., SumEDWARDS ter. Ms. Edwards will be placed in the church at 10 a.m. until the hour of service. The family is receiving friends at 5786 Fish Road, Dalzell. Vermell Edwards, 80, dear companion of the late Nathaniel Gregory, died on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2016, at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Born in Sumter County, she was a daughter of the late Oscar Moore and Susan Dargan. After returning to Sumter, she reunited with her childhood church, High Hills AME Church and enjoyed singing in the choir. Ms. Edwards supported the Sumter community by attending Sumter Senior Citizen Center; being a member of the Golden Girls; and singing with the Majestic Singers. Survivors include one daughter, Mary Davis of Baltimore, Maryland; four sons, Jeremire (Renee’) Edwards and Vernon Edwards of Baltimore and Bobbie Edwards and Arnold (Tanitrice) Edwards of Sumter; and a host of other dear relatives and friends. Condolences may be made on their tribute page found at www.PalmerMemorialChapel. com Palmer Memorial Chapel is

in charge of the arrangements

ELIZABETH F. WATSON SOUTHERN PINES, North Carolina — Elizabeth “Libba” Flemming Watson, 91, passed away on Feb. 12, 2016, in Pinehurst, North Carolina, near Southern Pines where she resided. She was born in Greenwood to Alice Rice and Thomas Willard Flemming. She grew up in Sumter and graduated from Furman University in three years. She married John Clarence Watson Jr. in 1947, with whom she spent more than 65 years in marriage. They lived in Boston, Albemarle, Kinston, Elizabethtown and Monroe before moving to Southern Pines. She was a school teacher in Monroe and Pinehurst and an office assistant at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve in Southern Pines, an activity she loved so much. Her other favorite activities were bird watching; walking more than three miles a day; helping to keep the roads of Highland Trails and Southern Pines clear of trash; as well as managing American Red Cross blood drives as a volunteer. Her husband, John C. Watson Jr.; her sister, Jeannette F. Fink of Orangeburg; and her brother, William Rice Flemming of Sprint Hill, Florida, predeceased her. Surviving are sons, Lawrence Flemming Watson of Washington, D.C., and Wayne Elliott Watson and partner, Nancy Peterson, of Chapel Hill; daughter, Carol Watson Pivor and husband, Mitchell Pivor, of Dover, New Hampshire; and grandchildren, Ryan and Andrea Watson of Chico, California, and Alicia Pivor of Dover. A memorial service will be conducted at 10 a.m. today at Penick Village Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her memory to Penick Village Foundation, P.O. Box 2001, Southern Pines, NC 28388-2001; The Nature Conservancy, 4245 N. Fairfax Drive No. 100, Arlington, VA 22203-1606; or by donating to the American Red Cross Blood Drive. Powell Funeral Home and Crematory of Southern Pines is assisting the family. Online condolences can be given at www.PinesFunerals. com.

Lachelle R. June, 39, was born on Oct. 27, 1976, in Sumter, to Albertus Generette and Linette Ham. She was the wife of George June Sr. She departed this life on Friday, Feb. 12, 2016, at Palmetto Health Tuomey. She is survived by her husband, George June Sr.; three sons, Shiaheem June, Cappine G. June and George June Jr.; parents, Albertus Generette and Linette Ham Generette; three brothers, Aresneo Generett, Willie Shaw Jr. and Kion Shaw; sister, Sadiquah Shaw; grandmother, Esther B. Ham; great-grandmother, Rosetta Cousare; father-in-law, Herbert June Sr.; and a host of other relatives and friends. Online messages of hope can be left at www.whitesmortuary.net The family is receiving friends at the home, 40 Rast St., Sumter. Services entrusted to Whites Mortuary LLC, (803) 774-8200.

HERBERT HOWARD

Tommie Lee Bradley, 59, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016, at Palmetto Health Tuomey. Born on May 24, 1956, in Sumter County, he was a son of the late Turner Lee and Virginia Ladson Bradley and the grandson of the late Julius and Janie Green. He was united in holy matrimony to the late Donnelle Lesane Bradley. He was educated in the public schools of Sumter County and was a mechanic by trade. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday at Salt and Light Church, 360 Miller Road, with the co-pastors, the Rev. Rodney Howard and the Rev. Marion Zeigler, officiating the services. Public viewing for Mr. Bradley will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. today at the Robert Scriven Jr. Memorial Chapel. The family is receiving relatives and friends at the home of his sister, Pamela Bennett, 27 Wilson St. Ephriam D. Stephens Funeral Home, 230 S. Lafayette Drive, Sumter, is in charge of arrangements. “Where Dignity is the Watchword”

Herbert “Pete” Howard was born on Dec. 13, 1959, in Lee County, to the late Johnny Howard Sr. and Pauline Howard English Cooper. He departed this life on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2016, at his residence in Mayesville. Herbert was educated in the public schools and was a graduate of Mt. Pleasant High School Class of 1975. He was employed at Santee Print Works for more than 30 years. He was a member of St. Mark UME Church, Mayesville. Herbert was married to the late Rovenia Howard. He was a family man and enjoyed being with his family and friends. He was the life of the party; an avid cook who created his own recipes; and a great singer. Teddy Pendergrass was one of his favorite artists. Herbert will be truly missed by his family and friends. Herbert leaves to cherish his memories: one son, Terrance McDonald; three brothers, Johnny and James Howard, both of Mayesville, and Wardell Plowden of Fort Pierce, Florida; two brothersin-law, John (Ethel) Brunson and Ernest (Cenise) Brunson; a nephew raised as a son, Jermaine Brunson of Sumter; grandniece and a grandnephew, Corsha and Jermaine Brunson Jr.; two uncles, Johnny Wilson and Walter McClary; four aunts, Mary Moses, Henrietta Wilson, Bertha Scarborough and Sue Mae Wells; two close friends, Ronnie Davis and Robert Anderson; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by three uncles, Robert, Zack and Henry Wilson. Public viewing will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. today at Job’s Mortuary. Mr. Howard will be placed in the church at noon on Friday until the hour of service. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday at Salem Chapel & Heritage Center, 101 S. Salem Ave., Sumter, with the Rev. Emanuel Davis officiating. Interment will follow in Mayesville Community Cemetery. The family will be receiving friends at the home of his brother, 2180 Ave. B, Mayesville. Job’s Mortuary Inc., 312 S. Main St., Sumter, is in charge of arrangements. Online memorials may be sent to the family at jobsmortuary@sc.rr.com or visit us on the web at www.jobsmortuary. net.

LACHELLE R. JUNE

JOYCE K. ALLEN

Funeral services for Lachelle R. June will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday at Reid Chapel AME Church, 1008 Dilbert St., Sumter, with the Rev. Abraham Temoney Jr., pastor, officiating. The interment will follow in Greater Mt. Pisgah Church Cemetery, Rembert. A public viewing will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. today at the mortuary.

DALZELL — Joyce Kennedy Allen, 69, entered eternal rest on Feb. 14, 2016. Born on June 5, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was a daughter of Bernice McDonald and the late Joseph Lewis. She graduated from Eastern School in Sumter. She was a member of St. Paul AME Church and served as a member of the Gospel Deliv-

TOMMIE LEE BRADLEY

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016 erance Choir. Survivors are two sons, Richard (Sharon) Allen Jr. and Edwardo (Bobbi) Allen; two daughters, Bridget (Randy) Lemmon and Theresa A. Scott; stepdaughter, Cynthia (LeErnest) Wells; a brother, Eugene McDonald; two sisters, Beatrice McDonald and Jacqueline McDonald; 12 grandchildren; one greatgrandchild; a host of other relatives and friends. Public viewing will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday at St. Paul AME Church with Pastor Robert E. Galloway. Burial will follow in St. Paul AME Cemetery. The family is receiving visitors until 7 nightly at the home, 3220 Deer Track Circle, Dalzell. Online memorials can be sent to comfhltj@sc.rr.com. Community Funeral Home is in charge of these arrangements.

DORA J. MOSES ALCOLU — Dora Johnson Moses, 89, widow of Anthony Peter Moses, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2016. She was born on May 25, 1926, in Bennettsville, a daughter of the late Joe and Rosa McCrea Johnson. The family is receiving friends at her residence, 1228 Cooter Creek Road, Alcolu. These services have been entrusted to Samuels Funeral Home LLC of Manning.

BERTHA LEE LOWRIMORE Bertha Lee Thames Lowrimore, 95, widow of Lonnie James Lowrimore Sr., died on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016, at her home in Sumter. Services will be announced by Stephens Funeral Home & Crematory, 304 N. Church St., Manning, (803) 435-2179. www. stephensfuneralhome.org

LUE ETHEL C. DRAYTON Lue Ethel Conyers Drayton, 75, wife of Ervin Drayton, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016, at Orangeburg Regional Medical Center, Orangeburg. She was born on March 22, 1940, in Clarendon County, to the late Paul and Addie Richardson Conyers. The family will receive relatives and friends at the home, 1566 Drayton-McKnight Road, Pinewood. Funeral services are incomplete and will be announced by Community Funeral Home of Sumter.

MYA ELIZABETH BELL Mya Elizabeth Bell, infant daughter of Melvin Bell and Theresa Dennis, entered into eternal rest on Monday, Feb. 15, 2016, at Palmetto Health Richland, Columbia. She was born on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016, in Sumter. Survivors are her parents; twin sister, Mariyah Rose Bell; maternal grandparents, Willie and Elizabeth Dennis; paternal grandparent, Flora Ann White (Joseph Mackie); paternal great-grandmother, Rozell White Brown; and a host of other relatives. Graveside services will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday. The family will receive visitors at the home, 110 Woodlawn Ave., Sumter. Community Funeral Home of Sumter is in charge of arrangements.

LARRY BLANDING Larry Blanding Sr., 60, was called to eternal rest on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016, at Magnolia Manor, Inman, Spartanburg County. Born on March 1, 1955, in Sumter County, he was a son of the late Frank and Verlene Abrams Blanding. At an early age, he attended Antioch United Methodist Church until his health failed. Larry was wellknown in the community as a caring and generous person. He leaves to cherish his memories: two daughters, Vakenya (Derrick) Rheames

of Dalzell and Thandi Blanding of Sumter; one son, Larry Blanding Jr. of Sumter; one sister, Verlene Blanding of Sumter; one brother, Herbert (Penny) of Dalzell; one aunt, Martha Bennett of Sumter; one uncle, J.P. (Mabel) Abrams of Sumter; three sisters-in-law; two grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Friday at John Wesley Williams Sr. Memorial Chapel, Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter, with the Rev. Raymond Cook, pastor of Antioch United Methodist Church, officiating, eulogist. The family is receiving friends and relatives at the home of Rocky Blanding, 6600 Keystone Road, Dalzell. The procession will leave at 2 p.m. from the home. Online memorial messages may be sent to the family at williamsfuneralhome@sc.rr. com. Visit us on the web at www. williamsfuneralhomeinc.com Services directed by the staff and management of Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter.

LOUISE ENGLISH-MOSES Deaconess Louise Elizabeth English-Moses, 93, went home peacefully to be with the Lord on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016, at Palmetto Health Tuomey. Born on Aug. 28, 1922, in Sumter County, she was the third of 12 siblings of the late Rev. John Henry “Sip” English Sr. and Laura Taylor English. Deaconess Moses was married to the late Ed Moses. She was a member of Clark United Methodist Church, where she sang with the choir. In 1959, she moved to New Jersey and joined First Baptist Church, Linden, New Jersey. Upon returning to South Carolina in 2011, she joined Grant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where she was a member of the choir, Missionary Society and Wednesday night Bible study. In addition to her daughter, Agnes Moses Griffen, she leaves to cherish her memories: two brothers, Harry English of Hephzibah, Georgia, and the Rev. George English (Doris) of Sumter; one sister, Lela Davis of Baltimore, Maryland; six grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday at Grant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, 5401 Black River Road, Rembert, with the Rev. Clifton N. Witherspoon, pastor, eulogist. The family is receiving relatives and friends at the home, 60 Hilliard Drive, Apartment 51, Southview Apartments, Sumter. The remains will be placed in the church at 10 a.m. The funeral procession will leave at 10:30 a.m. from the home. Floral bearers will be members of the Missionary Society. Pallbearers will be grandsons, great-grandsons and nephews. Burial will be in Grant Hill Missionary Baptist Churchyard cemetery. Services directed by the management and staff of Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter. Online memorial messages may be sent to the family at williamsfuneralhome@sc.rr. com. Visit us on the web at www.williamsfuneralhomeinc. com

GEORGE HAMPTON TURBEVILLE — George Hampton died on Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2016. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday at Howard Chapel AME Church, New Zion, with the Rev. Oliver Davis, pastor. These services have been entrusted to Samuels Funeral Home LLC of Manning.

COMICS

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

THE SUMTER ITEM

BIZARRO

SOUP TO NUTS

ANDY CAPP

GARFIELD

BEETLE BAILEY

BORN LOSER

BLONDIE

ZITS

MOTHER GOOSE

DOG EAT DOUG

DILBERT

JEFF MACNELLY'S SHOE

Parents worry about kids after they’ve grown up DEAR ABBY — At least “Renee in Oregon” (Sept. 10), who asked her adult daughters for their Dear Abby friends’ ABIGAIL phone numbers, cares VAN BUREN enough to want someone to call if her adult children don’t respond. I didn’t regard her request as nosy or overbearing, simply so she’d have a “just in case” number. Renee’s daughters sound like ungrateful brats who don’t care anything about worrying their parents. I’m thankful my four adult

children will text me in response to my call to let me know they are OK. I have never had a problem getting a contact number from them for a neighbor or friend. Two of them offered the information without my asking. I have only had to call a contact once. Thank goodness it was only a matter of a stolen phone, not a sick or injured child. I’m blessed my kids understand that it’s not to get in their business, but a logical safety issue. Lucky dad in Kentucky DEAR LUCKY DAD — I’m glad for you. The response from readers about Renee’s letter was varied, and it was informative to read their perspectives:

DEAR ABBY — Sometimes parents do need a contact person for emergencies. At what point should a person have to contact the police? Years ago, parents here in Northern California didn’t hear from their adult son for a week or two. They thought he was with his live-in girlfriend. She thought he had gone to see them. Sadly, his body was found stuffed in an irrigation pipe weeks later. He had been robbed and murdered. Hopefully, Renee’s three daughters are close enough to have regular contact with each other and can call their parents on a regular timetable to check in and assure them all is well. California Mom

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.

THE DAILY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

By Bruce Haight

ACROSS 1 "Pay attention!" (Ford) 6 Time for new growth: Abbr. 9 Minute Maid Park player (Chevy) 14 Select group 15 Eastern ideal 16 Absolute 17 Summer Olympics competitor 18 Symmetrically placed Monopoly sqs. 19 Bambino's parent 20 Musical narrated by Che 21 Squeeze (out) 22 Cosmetician Adrien 23 Info-gathering mission 24 Entanglement 25 Guffaw evokers 26 Way up the mountain 29 Slowpokes 33 1945 battle setting, familiarly 34 "Macbeth" witches, e.g. 38 Car mishaps that occur at this puzzle's four circles 41 Jabbers

2/18/16 42 Lip-reading alternative: Abbr. 43 Subtlety 44 Writer who used his actual middle name as a pen name 46 Venomous snake (Dodge) 50 Place for a key: Abbr. 51 Atlas, for one (Nissan) 56 Pianist known for his Beethoven interpretations 57 Most preferred, in texts 58 RollerCoaster Tycoon World publisher 59 Pope after John X 60 Seine sight 61 Can't be beaten 62 Not yet up 63 Yalie 64 Calf-roping loop 65 Monopoly stack 66 67-Acr. has one 67 Show contempt DOWN 1 Sound mixing control 2 Bar staple 3 Type of pride (Honda) 4 Be of __: help

5 Suppress 6 Scattered 7 Subject to ticketing 8 NCAA's "Granddaddy of them all" 9 Capital of Eritrea 10 Lewis with Lamb Chop 11 Beat (Ford) 12 Convened again 13 Educational hurdles 27 Prize for a picture 28 Beef cuts 29 Rooting place 30 Larry O'Brien Trophy org. 31 "Fine with me!" 32 Connections 34 Familia member

35 Harry's Hogwarts cohort 36 Firm ending? 37 Verb ending 39 Hardens into bone 40 Keeps up 44 Ancient Celtic priests 45 Present to the public 46 Well-founded 47 Adler of Sherlock Holmes lore 48 Space explorer (Ford) 49 Like many roofs 52 "Challenge accepted!" 53 Western skiing mecca (Chevy) 54 Got up 55 Gunpowder ingredient

Wednesday’s Puzzle Solved

2/18/16

CLASSIFIEDS

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

THE ITEM

803-774-1234

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

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.

CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS SERVICES Business Services Burch's Landscaping WaterProblemsSolved: GuttersFrench Drains-Sump pumps-leveling & sodding-topsoil-filler dirt or crusher run. Call Burch 803-720-4129

Home Improvements H.L. Boone, Contractor: Remodel paint roofs gutters drywall blown ceilings ect. 773-9904

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

Roofing All Types of Roofing & Repairs All work guaranteed. 30 yrs exp. SC lic. Virgil Bickley 803-316-4734. Robert's Metal Roofing 35 Yrs exp. 45 yr warranty. Financing avail. Expert installation. Long list of satisfied customers. 803-837-1549.

Septic Tank Cleaning

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

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 9w, AM Staff Pitbull terrier pups. Asking $100. Call 803-968-9806

Poultry PALMETTO CORNISH CHICKENS $12/case (of 12) B-Grade Southern States 335 Broad St., Sumter 803-775-1204 While Supplies last!

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

Help Wanted Full-Time

Unfurnished Apartments

Multi- Family Sale 202 Burns Dr., Sat 20th, 7-11. Fundraiser for Sumter Blue Dogs Baseball travel team.

Seed Technician Position Available The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, have excellent organizational skills, as well as the ability to follow verbal and written directions. Duties include: •Seed processing, treating, and packaging •Organizing placing seed into storage •Maintaining inventory accuracy •Maintaining working order and cleanliness of seed equipment, warehouses, and warehouse equipment •Assist Warehouse Manager as needed •Utilize computer systems

TRUCK MECHANIC / WELDER NEEDED Experienced Truck Mechanic & Welder needed for local trucking company. Work includes general maintenance on trucks and trailers, along with welding repairs on rolloff equipment. Benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans. Company paid uniforms, paid holidays, PTO time, life insurance, 401K and profit sharing. Must have own hand tools and valid driver's license. Hourly pay commensurate with experience. Apply in person at FCI 132 Myrtle Beach Hwy Sumter, SC 19153 803-773-2611 Ext - 25 for Todd. Resumes can be e-mailed to tkrigbaum@freeholdcartage.com

Downtown apartments 2BR 2BA $950, Util. Incld. 803-775-1204 Mon.-Fri. 8-5p or 803-968-1950

Please call 803-453-5151 to schedule an interview

Work Wanted

For Sale or Trade 2 plots for sale in Iris Gardens Evergreen Cemetery. $4200 call 843-833-1434 Oak firewood 803-651-8672

for

sale.

Call

Brand New 3900 Super Star CB, never used $90, 400 Watt Linear, like new $135. Call Kell 473-7195 or 491-5640 lv msg Bill's Furn & Antiques 1107 N. Main St. Open Thurs & Fri. 8-5. Other times by Appt. New items weekly. We do Estate Auctions, Tag sales etc... 803-968-5115 Martin's Used Appliance Washers, Dryers, Refrig., Stoves. Guarantee 464-5439 or 469-7311. Open 7 Days a week 9am-8pm

Holiday Inn Express seeking front desk clerk & front desk manager. Previous hotel experience required. Please apply in person at 2490 Broad st. Bucket operator/groundsman needed for local tree service. Must have Valid Drivers License. Call 803-983-9721.

EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted Full-Time Warehouse Position Must be reliable, some knowledge of hardware. Apply at Wally's Hardware 1291 Broad St. Meter Reader/Maintenance Worker. Small Rural Water Co. seeks full time individual to perform meter reading and maintenance duties. CDL and Certification in water distribution is a plus. Duties include, but are not limited to reading water meters, maintenance to water mains and services. Company provides paid employees benefits, holidays. Exp. preferred but not necessary, will consider all applicants. Salary commensurate with experience. Send resume and past salary history to Meter Reader Box P- 174 c/o The Item, PO Box 1677 Sumter SC 29151

Hiring landscape/irrigation crew member. Exp. a plus. Must have valid drivers license with clean record. Call 803-773-3400. Full time Groomer Needed Must be willing to work Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat. Please send resume to Box 434 c//o The Item, PO Box 1677 Sumter SC 29151 We are a local company looking for exp. straight truck drivers. Over the road, home most weekends. CDL not required. Must have good driving record. Call 803-340-0271. Nesbitt Transportation is now hiring Class A CDL Drivers. Must be 23 yrs old and have 2 yrs experience. Home nights and weekends. Also hiring experience diesel mechanic. Call 843-621-0943 or 843-621-2572

CONTRACTOR WANTED!

LAKEWOOD & HWY 15 SOUTH

NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED. Must have RELIABLE transportation and a phone in your home. 6 Days a week CALL LORI RABON at 774-1216 or come in to fill out an application.

MERCHANDISE Auctions Estate Auction of the late Harriet Smith at 2869 Sequoia Dr. Sumter, Feb. 27th @ 9 am. Furniture, antiques, glassware, AC units, etc. Auction by Bill's Furniture, Antiques & Auction Firm. AFL 4061. Tommy Atkinson SCAL 3879. 10% buyers premium & 8% sales tax. Everything must be moved the day of sale.

Garage, Yard & Estate Sales Will buy furniture by piece or bulk, tools, trailers, lawn mowers, 4 wheelers, or almost anything of value. Call 803-983-5364

Need a little help at home? I can offer light house keeping, laundry etc. I have a few openings, over 30yrs exp. Call or text 803-565-0823

RENTALS Unfurnished Apartments Swan Lake Apts. Apply now. 2BR 1BA apts. in quiet scenic neighborhood. No sect. 8. No Smoking, No Pets 803-775-4641.

Mobile Home Rentals

STATEBURG COURTYARD

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

2 & 3 BRs 803-494-4015

Unfurnished Homes

Homes for Sale

Nice 3 Br, 3 Ba, downtown historical district, refrig, stove, dishwasher, C/H/A, hardwood floors, FP, fenced in yard, lg. workshop with C/H/A, alarm system. No Pets. $1200 mo. Call 803-491-5375.

3br, 2ba, DW mobile home with lot. $11,500 OBO. 214 Brand St. 803-528-4351

1290 Kings Pointe 3BR/1.5BA , $700/mo + dep. No pets. 803-518-3316 Newly

Renovated

2400sqf. C//H//A 4Bdr, 2.5Ba. sun room, fenced lot, no pets. 803-206-7859

Mobile Home Rentals Scenic Lake MHP 2 Bedroom 2 bath , No pets. Call between 9 am - 5 pm 803-499-1500

Going on

REAL ESTATE

A nice 3Brd, 2Ba DW mobile home with land. Must quailify for bank financing. $74,900 Call 803-469-6973

Manufactured Housing Turn your Tax Refund into your dream home! We have quality used refurbished mobile homes. We specialize in on the lot financing. Low credit score is OK. Call 843-389-4215 AND also visit our Face Book page (M & M Mobile Homes).

vacation? Don’t Miss A Thing!

Let your carrier save your paper for you while you are on vacation!

Call 803-774-1258 Customer Service Dept. Hours Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm

20 N. Magnolia Street

ROUTE OPEN IN Hwy. 15 N., & Dubose Siding Areas GREAT FOR PERSON LOOKING FOR EXTRA INCOME If you have good, dependable transportation and a phone in your home, apply in person at:

Not your ordinary yard sale! Old Sumter in town home, tools, furniture and more. 2441 Wedgefield Rd. Sat 20th, 7am no early birds.

LARGE GARAGE SALE Every Weekend Tables $2 & $3 FLEA MARKET BY SHAW AFB

Open every weekend. Call 803-494-5500

Circulation Department

20 N. Magnolia Street Sumter, SC 29150 or call Dean Benenhaley at (803) 774-1257

20 N. Magnolia Street

803-774-1258

MAYO’S “FABULOUS FEBRUARY SALE”

WHERE $1.00 CAN BUY YOU A SUIT!

Choose ONE suit at our REGULAR PRICE Get SECOND suit of equal or less value for ONLY $1.00! Because it’s FABULOUS FEBRUARY

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

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

CLASSIFIEDS

THE ITEM Land & Lots for Sale

Autos For Sale

One acre of land with power pole, well, and septic tank. $6500 OBO. 5120 Joebilly Rd 803-528-4351

02 Buick LeSabre. Runs & drives good, looks good. Stk# 126648. $2000 cash. Plus TT&L and $299 doc fee. Call 866-224-5963.

Dalzell- Mobile home Lots for sale starting at $4,800 Call Burch 803-720-4129 7am-7pm

LEGAL NOTICES Legal Notice NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF NEED

Commercial Industrial

This is to notify you that McLeod Regional Medical Center of the Pee Dee, Inc., doing business as McLeod Home Health, is applying for a Certificate of Need from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (the "CON"). The CON would allow McLeod Home Health to operate a home health agency and provide home health services in Kershaw County, South Carolina. The capital cost of the project is estimated to be zero.

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

TRANSPORTATION

Beer & Wine License Vans / Trucks / Buses 94 Chevy S10. Runs great. Camper shell incld. Econ. truck. Stk# 179851. $2000 cash. Plus TT&L and $299 doc fee. Call 866-224-5963.

SALES SALES SALES! OVER 100 CARS STARTING AT $1995! Price is Right Auto Sales 3210 Broad St 803-494-4275

96 Chevy Z71. Awesome truck runs like a champ. Stepside. If you drive it you'll buy it Stk# 125582. $3500 cash. Plus TT&L and $299 doc fee. Call 866-224-5963.

15 Mustang. You see it you'll want it. very sharp. Bad credit ok. Stk# 333128. $2500 Down, $535.49/mo., 11% APR for 72 mo., $29,995, plus TT&L & $299 doc fee. WAC. Call 866-224-5963.

01 Expedition. Runs & drives. Solid truck. Stk# B14144 $1200 cash. Plus TT&L and $299 doc fee. Call 866-224-5963.

2002 Mitsubishi Lancer Rally Add., good shape mechanically, depend. transp., A/T, 31mpg. $1800 Call 803-840-9135 or 803-840-1087.

4-Wheel Drive

15 Dodge Dart. Like New. Fac. Wrnty. Bad credit ok. Stk# 265239. $1500 Down, $288.04/mo., 11% APR for 72 mo., $15,995, plus TT&L & $299 doc fee. WAC. Call 866-224-5963.

08 Nissan Titan. 4x4 solid truck. 1 owner, clean carfax. runs like a beast. Stk# 323555. $7000 cash. Plus TT&L and $299 doc fee. Call 866-224-5963.

Miscellaneous SUVs

Abandon Vehicle / Boat

04 Jeep Liberty. Runs & drives good, looks good. Stk# 147971. $4500 cash. Plus TT&L and $299 doc fee. Call 866-224-5963.

Abandoned Vehicle Notice:

Autos For Sale 97' Buick Le sabre blue, runs good, $2600 OBO, 96' Dodge Grand Caravan Runs great! $3100 803-795-3606 15 Altima. Beautiful, low miles, fully loaded car. Bad credit ok. Stk# 173751. $1500 Down, $307.08/mo., 11% APR for 72 mo., $16,995, plus TT&L & $299 doc fee. WAC. Call 866-224-5963.

Notice Of Application

Notice is hereby given that Cali Joe's LLC intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a license permit that will allow the sale and ON premises consumption of Beer, Wine and Liquor at 4668 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29154. To object to the issuance of this permit / license, written protest must be postmarked no later than February 20, 2016. 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, ABL, P.O. Box 125, Columbia, South Carolina 29214-0907; or Faxed to: (803) 896-0110.

New batteries: Car 630 amp $70. New Truck GR31 $78. Auto Electric Co., 803-773-4381

OUR WORLD IS IN COLOR...

13 Ford Flex. Awesome for family. 3rd row. Stk# D01439. $2000 Down, $449.83/mo., 11% APR for 72 mo., $24,995, plus TT&L & $299 doc fee. WAC. Call 866-224-5963.

The following vehicle was abandoned at Honda of Sumter, 2544 Broad Street Ext., Sumter, SC 29150. Described as a 1992 Honda T R X 2 5 0 X , V I N # JH3TE1301NM401057. Total Due for storage is $550.30 as of February 11, 2016, plus $15.00 per day thereafter. 2012 HAMMERHEAD/MUDHEAD, VIN # L6KTK208XC0901007. Total Due for storage is $155.60 as of February 11, 2016, plus $15.00 per day thereafter. 2003 HOND XR80, VIN # JH2HE01083K217993. Total Due for storage is $614.35 as of February 11, 2016, plus $15.00 per day thereafter. Owners are asked to call 803-469-3598. If not claimed in 30 days. it will be turned over to the Magistrate's Office for public sale.

Summons & Notice

02 Mazda Tribute. Runs great. Good fam veh. Stk# M19545 Hurry, won't last long $3000 cash. Plus TT&L and $299 doc fee. Call 866-224-5963.

SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF FILING OF COMPLAINT (Non-Jury) Foreclosure

06 Honda Accord SE. Runs & drives great. Stk# 033028. $5000 cash. Plus TT&L and $299 doc fee. Call 866-224-5963.

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

WHY ISN’T YOUR AD?

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Summons & Notice

C/A #: 2016-CP-43-00177

Supreme Court Administrative Order 2011-05-02-01, you have a right to be considered for Foreclosure Intervention.

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF SUMTER BRANCH BANKING AND TRUST COMPANY, Plaintiff, vs. ERIK FORD; KAREN W. FORD A/K/A KAREN E. FORD; ARROW FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC ASSIGNEE OF FIA CARD SERVICES, N.A.; and STERLING JEWELERS INC. DBA KAY JEWELERS, Defendants. TO THE DEFENDANTS ERIK FORD AND KAREN W. FORD A/K/A KAREN E. FORD ABOVE NAMED: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint in this action, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your answer to the said Complaint upon the subscribers, at their office, 1703 Laurel Street (29201), Post Office Box 11682, Columbia, South Carolina 29211, within thirty (30) days after the service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service; and if you fail to answer the Complaint in the time aforesaid, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the original Complaint in the above entitled action was filed in the office of the Clerk of Court for Sumter County on January 29, 2016. Benjamin E. Grimsley S.C. Bar No. 70335 Attorney for the Plaintiff PO Box 11682 Columbia, SC 29211 803-233-1177 bgrimsley@grimsleylaw.com

SUMMONS AND NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS C/A NO. 2015-CP-43-01701 STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF SUMTER

NOTICE OF PENDENCY OF ACTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT an action has been commenced and is now pending or is about to be commenced in the Circuit Court upon the complaint of the above named Plaintiff against the above named Defendant for the purpose of foreclosing a certain mortgage of real estate heretofore given by Christopher L. Godfrey and Tabetha Dawn Godfrey to Selene Finance LP bearing date of December 5, 2007 and recorded December 7, 2007 in Mortgage Book 1096 at Page 3503 in the Register of Mesne Conveyances/Register of Deeds/Clerk of Court for Sumter County, in the original principal sum of Seventy One Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy Two and 00/100 Dollars ($71,872.00). Thereafter, by assignment recorded on August 12, 2013 in Book 1192 at Page 624, the mortgage was assigned to Bank of America, N.A.; thereafter, assigned unto Plaintiff by assignment dated October 6, 2014 and recorded July 24, 2015 in Book 1213 at Page 2533., and that the premises effected by said mortgage and by the foreclosure thereof are situated in the County of Sumter, State of South Carolina, and is described as follows: All that certain piece, parcel or lot of land with the improvements thereon, if any, situate, lying and being in the County of Sumter, State of South Carolina being shown and designated on a plat containing 1.22 acres, more or less, prepared by Charles Edwin Norris and Julia W. Norris by Lindler Land Surveying, LLC dated May 22, 2002 and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Sumter County in Book 2002, page 358 on June 24, 2002. This said lot has such metes, boundaries, courses and distances as are shown on said plat, which are incorporated herein in accordance with the provisions of Section 30-5-250 of the Code of Laws of South

Summons & Notice Carolina, 1976. This is the same property generally known as 5360 Live Oak Road, Dalzell, SC. Represented by Sumter County Parcel No. 193-00-01-036. Also included is a 2003 Fleetwood M o b i l e H o m e , V I N : NCFL241A/B67773GB13.

TMS No. 1930001036 Property Address: 5360 Live Oak Road, Dalzell, SC 29040 Riley Pope & Laney, LLC Post Office Box 11412 Columbia, South Carolina 29211 Telephone (803) 799-9993 Attorneys for Plaintiff

ANNOUNCEMENTS Lost & Found Found: puppy near Catchall Road in Dalzell. Call 236-9007 to identify.

Selene Finance LP, Plaintiff vs. Christopher L. Godfrey and Tabetha Dawn Godfrey, Defendants. TO THE DEFENDANTS Christopher L. Godfrey and Tabetha Dawn Godfrey: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint in the above action, a copy which is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your Answer upon the undersigned at their offices, 2838 Devine Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29205, within thirty (30) days after service upon you, exclusive of the day of such service, and, if you fail to answer the Complaint within the time aforesaid, judgment by default will be rendered against you for relief demanded in the Complaint.

Sell Your Items In

NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the original Complaint in this action was filed in the office of the Clerk of Court for Sumter County on July 23, 2015.

NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the South Carolina

The Perfect Housewarming Gift The Sumter Item is locally owned and run. We’re part of this community and we believe in Sumter.

Appliances, Cars, Pets, Furniture, Yard Sales & More.

It’s Easy - Call Today 803-774-1234 www.theitem.com

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