March 6, 2014

SERVING SOUTH CAROLINA SINCE OCTOBER 15, 1894

City moves forward with $194K ‘green’ Park could be demolished later for development

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

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2 SECTIONS, 18 PAGES | VOL. 119, NO. 120

BY BRISTOW MARCHANT bmarchant@theitem.com (803) 774-1272 The former site of two Main Street stores torn down last year is set to be remade as a public park, to the tune of $194,000.

Sumter City Council voted to ap-

Haley expected to sign tax break bill for military Lent begins

prove a contract to beautify the “Sumter Green,” as city officials have taken to calling the site of a buildings that once housed Maxway and Citi Trends on North Main Street, which they now envision as a city park.

The buildings were demolished last fall with the goal of placing a

downtown hotel on the site, which sits across from the Sumter Opera House, as a way to attract convention guests to downtown Sumter, although no builders of a hotel have formally come forward. But in the meantime, the city has other

SEE PARK, PAGE A10

BY BRADEN BUNCH bbunch@theitem.com (803) 774-1201 South Carolina’s military personnel could soon see a tax break on homes they have not been able to sell after receiving orders stationing them elsewhere.

Legislators in Columbia sent their final version of a bill proposed by state Rep. Murrell Smith, R-Sumter, to Gov. Nikki Haley on Wednesday which would allow military homeowners to keep their property in the lower, owner-occupied tax group, even if they are renting out the property.

These homeowners could keep this tax rate as long they remain on active duty and place the home on the market within 30 days of purchasing a second home.

Smith said the proposal was simply another step to show how South Carolina has a commitment to the military. “We want to do what we can to make sure that our men and women that serve in South Carolina feel like we’re looking out for their best interests,” Smith said.

The tax break will even apply to military personnel transferred to other military

SEE BILL, PAGE A8

SPORTS

PHOTOS BY MATT WALSH / THE SUMTER ITEM

Khloe S., above, looks up at the ashes on her head during the Ash Wednesday Mass at St. Anne Catholic Church in Sumter. During the 40-day Lenten season that began Wednesday, Christians prepare for Easter.

Father Tom Burke, left, leads Ash Wednesday Mass at the church.

Griffin M., below, prays at the church during the Mass service. See more photos of the service and more about local Lenten services on page A7.

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Penny-tax stakeholders to meet on final list

BY BRISTOW MARCHANT bmarchant@theitem.com (803) 774-1272 These are the people who will decide how a renewed penny tax in Sumter County will be spent.

County officials released the full list of stakeholders who will meet to draw up the list of proposed projects for a new penny tax. The group’s first meeting will be held today at noon in the county council chambers.

“This is really the beginning of the process,” said Sumter City Manager Deron McCormick, one of 19 named stakeholders. “This is the first time, I believe, we’ll see all the projects proposed by the different groups and have the chance to add some additional comments.”

Twenty individuals will be drawn from the nine lead groups working the past few months to draft proposals for penny-tax

‘We want to be a community where kids will come back to live, to work and to raise a family.’

THE REV. NAPOLEON BRADFORD Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church spending. The combined stakeholders, one of whom had not been confirmed on the eve of the meeting, will now hold a series of meetings to finalize the list of projects, and a separate citycounty commission will then approve the list for county residents to vote on in a November

referendum.

The Rev. Napoleon Bradford, the director of education at Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church, will serve as a stakeholder for the young professionals’ lead group.

Young people’s needs were a new dimension added to this process from the lead up to 2008’s vote on the Penny for Progress.

“We’re looking not only at a project’s immediate impact on us, but on our children and our children’s children,” Bradford said.

“We want to be a community where kids will come back to live, to work and to raise a family.”

Some of his group’s suggestions are cosmetic, such as improved lighting on the main roadways into town, but also ensuring young people are educated to work in the area’s growing industrial fields.

While the final list is still up in the air, other project ideas are still

SEE PENNY TAX, PAGE A8

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THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

THE SUMTER ITEM

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

Woman charged in sexual assault of boy

BY ROB COTTINGHAM rcottingham@theitem.com (803) 774-1225 A Sumter woman has been charged in the sexual assault of an Irmo teenager after turning herself in to authorities Wednesday.

Dawn Marie Barfield, 42, of 1 David Court, was charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct after an investigation of the alleged fondling of a then-15-year-old Irmo boy.

According to reports, the victim, now 16, came forward and told his mother that Barfield touched him in his private area when he was still 15.

Barfield, who is the victim’s sister’s ex-boyfriend’s mother, also allegedly forced the teen to reciprocate during the incident. Once the mother learned of the assault, she reported her son’s account to Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.

Maj. Allen Dailey said Barfield turned herself in Wednesday without incident and is being held at SumterLee Regional Detention Center, where she awaits a bond hearing.

U. Thorne, 17, of 1810 Frenchy Williams Road, was charged with firstdegree criminal sexual conduct with a minor Feb. 26 after the alleged victim, Thorne’s 6-year-old cousin, stepped forward and told his mother what had occurred between him and Thorne. The mother acted quickly and alerted law enforcement.

In all three cases, the victims’ willingness to step forward resulted in timely arrests, and Dailey commended victims for having the courage to speak up.

“It always helps us when the victims themselves step forward and speak out,” Dailey said. “It’s very hard to reach out to that demographic, especially when you have no indication as to who they are. Whether it’s law enforcement or parents, it’s best they tell someone. The more cooperation we get from them, the quicker we can get to the bottom of the investigation.”

Dailey said victims of sexual crimes, namely children, are less

Dailey said child sex charges are particularly sensitive cases, but having the victims step forward helps tremendously.

Barfield’s arrest is one of several criminal sexual conduct with a minor charges levied by the sheriff’s office in the past few weeks.

Elizabeth Marie Moss, 31, a former teacher at Chestnut Oaks Middle School, was arrested Feb. 19 and charged BARFIELD with second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor after an investigation revealed she reportedly engaged in sexual activity with a then-13-year-old student in March through April of 2013. A separate charge of criminal solicitation of a minor was levied against her after investigators discovered a Facebook chat conversation in which Moss allegedly propositioned another student, attempting to seduce him.

In a separate incident, Lenerick

likely to come forward than victims of other crimes because they might not understand they’ve done nothing wrong.

“The victims are innocent in all of this; they’ve done nothing wrong,” he said. “It’s the perpetrators who are committing the crimes.”

On the flip side, Dailey said allegations as socially sensitive as criminal sexual conduct with a minor, which carry heavy sentences, are investigated thoroughly before charges are levied.

“We have to get all the evidence together before we can make an arrest,” he said. “We have to interview witnesses and conduct forensic exams and forensic interviews. It’s a thorough process.”

Once enough evidence is gathered to warrant an arrest, Dailey said law enforcement acts swiftly, especially if the victim is a child.

“Children are so much more vulnerable than adults. You have to step in quickly,” he said. “We go the extra step for children.”

LOCAL & STATE BRIEFS FROM STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS

1 arrested, 1 wanted in firearm burglary Jimmie Durant, 18, of 549 S. Sumter St., was arrested Tuesday at a Gate Street residence after officers received an anonymous tip that he was in the area. Durant was wanted in connection to a Jan. 22 burglary at a Lawson Street home during which several firearms, three small swords and an electronic safe were stolen.

Durant, who is DURANT charged with firstdegree burglary, is being held at Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center pending a bond hearing. The public’s help is needBARTON ed in finding Ronald Barton III, 17, last known address 43 L St., who is also wanted in the burglary.

Barton is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall, 135 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

People with information on Barton’s whereabouts are asked to contact Sumter Police Department at (803) 436-2700 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-CRIMESC. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward for information leading to an arrest.

S.C. State president asks for $13.6M COLUMBIA — The president of South Carolina State University asked lawmakers Wednesday for $13.6 million to pay bills that began piling up in October, but it remains unclear whether they’ll provide the cash and what happens if they don’t.

President Thomas Elzey sought a direct payment, saying that would eliminate the university’s deficit and start next school year “with a clean sheet of paper.”

RAYTEVIA EVANS / THE SUMTER ITEM

Sumter School District Superintendent Dr. Frank Baker speaks at the monthly Vision in Progress meeting Wednesday morning at the James E. Clyburn Intermodal Transportation Center.

Baker talks technical program for high school students

BY RAYTEVIA EVANS revans@theitem.com (803) 774-1214 During the monthly meeting for Vision in Progress on Wednesday, Superintendent Dr. Frank Baker spoke briefly about his goals for Sumter School District — including a proposal he is working on with Central Carolina Technical College’s President Tim Hardee.

Previously, local legislation gave the college the money to purchase the old Walmart building on Broad Street. The school plans to renovate the space and use it for a training center to properly prepare its students for the workforce.

Baker explained to VIP members that one of many proposals being discussed among himself, Hardee and local legislators is a technical high school proposal.

“There is a possibility we’re getting more funding into Sumter County. I

have been speaking with legislators and Tim Hardee at Central Carolina about partnering with higher education, to prepare some of our high school students for jobs,” Baker said.

Baker said he knows he will receive responses about using one of the three high schools that may not be up to capacity as a technical high school and move those students to one of the other schools. However, Baker said the current high school facilities are not equipped to become technical high schools, but Central Carolina’s new training center on Broad Street will be the proper facility and have the proper equipment to train students for jobs with companies such as Continental Tire the Americas and for other technological and industrial careers.

One of the steps in preparing for a possible partnership with Central Carolina is adding more courses at the

Sumter Career and Technology Center.

Baker explained that by implementing programs that show the Sumter public school system and local higher education institutions are training local residents and students for technological and specialized positions, more businesses like Continental will be more inclined to open in the county.

Baker also emphasized the need to get the word out about programs the school district offers and to connect more with the community, including with different faith-based communities in the county.

“We have problems just like any other school district, but we have to let people know about the good things we’re doing here,” he said. “I am a strong advocate in involving our faithbased communities. We have to create partnerships and get the community more involved. The school district can’t operate in isolation.”

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LOCAL

THE SUMTER ITEM

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

Chamber membership drive

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POLICE BLOTTER STRONG ARM ROBBERY A 19-year-old told officers a black male with a beard, a white male and a white female robbed him in the 1000 block of McCrays Mill Road between 8 and 8:10 p.m.

Monday. The victim said the black male and the white male held him down while the black male continuously punched him in the face, demanding money. The suspects fled with $60 in cash.

PHOTOS BY MATT WALSH / THE SUMTER ITEM

Electa Riggs is sprayed with Silly String every time she signs up a new member at the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce annual membership drive. As of Wednesday, 130 members had joined the chamber during this year’s event.

Jimmy Cusano, right, builds relationships between business leaders and the chamber. “You cannot create business yourself, cannot get jobs to your community by yourself or stand in front of a legislature and fight on behalf of business by yourself like 1,100 members can.

That’s why you have a chamber,” Cusano said.

STOLEN PROPERTY A 1999 light blue Dodge Durango valued at $6,000 was reportedly stolen between 3 p.m. Feb. 3 and 3:50 p.m.

Tuesday from a residence in the 400 block of Love Street.

A maroon 2003 Mitsubishi Galant valued at $3,000 was reported stolen at 5:59 p.m.

Tuesday from a residence in the 200 block of Watkins Street.

A 42-inch flat-screen TV and a Nintendo DS handheld gaming system were reportedly stolen between 9 p.m.

Tuesday and midnight Wednesday from a residence in the 300 block of North Magnolia Street. The items are valued at $1,156.

DEBIT CARD FRAUD Officers spoke with a woman who said her debit card was stolen Sunday while the victim was at church. An unknown suspect reportedly made a $579 purchase with the card between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Sunday at a business in the 1000 block of Broad Street.

Officers responded to the 900 block of Parsons Lane at 1:56 p.m. Monday in reference to a victim who said an unknown suspect stole her debit card and made multiple purchases totaling $2,610.

SUSPICIOUS FIRE An officer was called at 2:49 p.m. Tuesday to investigate a suspicious house fire in the 10000 block of Nero Circle, Olanta, after an investigator reported the fire patterns were not consistent with a normal fire. The fire department responded to the fire at 12:55 p.m. and managed to control it at 1:22 p.m. Damage is estimated at $100,000.

Anthony drops out of S.C. education superintendent race

BY RAYTEVIA EVANS revans@theitem.com (803) 774-1214 The race for South Carolina Superintendent of Education recently got a little lighter after Rep. Mike Anthony, DUnion, announced that he would end his campaign for the position. Anthony made the announcement Wednesday afternoon, stating that he would be running for re-election to the S.C. House of Representatives.

“Since announcing my candidacy for Superinten-

dent of Education, I have enjoyed traveling around the state and meeting so many others who share my commitment to improving public education in South Carolina,” said Anthony in a prepared statement ANTHONY Wednesday afternoon. “During this time I have come to the conclusion that I can be more effective at improving our schools by remaining in the House of Representatives, where I

presently serve on the budget-writing Ways and Means Committee as well as the K-12 sub-committee.

“As superintendent, one of my main goals would have been to put more money into the classroom. By remaining in the House and continuing to serve on the Ways and Means Committee, I have a voice, and more importantly a vote, to put more money in the budget for our schools.”

Furthermore, Anthony said he enjoys serving his community in the legislature but has not enjoyed being away from

Union and his family as much. Anthony’s announcement to end his campaign comes not too far behind longtime educator Molly Spearman’s announcement that she is throwing her hat into the race for the position.

Spearman joins seven other candidates hoping to get the GOP nomination.

Those other candidates are Sally Atwater, a former Colleton County teacher; Gary Burgess, Anderson County Board of Education member; Charmeka Childs of Columbia and former S.C.

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Education Department deputy superintendent; Amy Cofield, a Lexington attorney; Sheri Few, a Lugoff Republican activist; Don Jordan of Columbia, a University of South Carolina professor; and Elizabeth Moffly, a Charleston County School Board member.

Now that Anthony has ended his campaign, Montrio Belton, former principal and teacher from Fort Mill, is the only candidate running as a Democrat.

Current S.C. Superintendent of Education Dr. Mick Zais is not seeking re-election.

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NATION | WORLD

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

THE SUMTER ITEM

Obama puts spotlight on minimum wage NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (AP) — Mounting a show of support from like-minded governors, President Obama put a spotlight Wednesday on a minimum wage push that Democrats hope will appeal to economically squeezed voters in November’s midterm elections.

Standing at the center of a packed college gymnasium, Obama said raising hourly wages to $10.10 would pull millions of Americans out of poverty. Although one of Obama’s top priorities, the proposal is more likely to serve as a rallying cry for Democrats in the approaching election than to be adopted by Congress in the foreseeable future.

In a nod to staunch Republican opposition, Obama urged Americans to demand answers from their lawmakers about whether they support raising stagnant wages. If they don’t, why not?

“Ask them to reconsider.

Ask them to side with the majority of Americans,” Obama said. “Instead of saying no for once, say yes.”

The backdrop as Obama rallied a crowd of 3,000 at Central Connecticut State University: Four northeastern governors — from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont and Rhode Island — who support Obama’s proposal.

More than 20 states have increased their state-level minimum wages, said Labor Secretary Tom Perez, including six in the year since Obama first called for a federal increase. Democrats think the push will bolster a populist message about expanding opportunity that they think offers their best shot at fending off Republicans this November.

As if to underscore how politically charged the issue has

Home births still rising, driven by white moms

BY MIKE STOBBE AP Medical Writer ATLANTA — Home births have risen to their highest level in about four decades but are still only a fraction of all births, according to a new government report released Tuesday.

A little more than 1 percent of U.S. births occur at home, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported.

Experts said they remain largely a phenomenon of white women and those who live in remote areas.

In the 20th century, births shifted from homes to hospitals. Out-of-hospital deliveries were down to 1 percent by 1969.

But about 2004, they began inching up again and reached about 1.36 percent in 2012.

That translates to about 35,000 births in homes and another 16,000 in freestanding, birthing centers.

While more birthing centers have opened, perhaps the main driver was an increase in out-of-hospital births involving white mothers, said T.J. Mathews, one of the authors of the new report.

The proportion of white mothers delivering outside hospitals rose to 1 in 49. For Hispanic, black and Asian mothers, it is about 1 in 200.

Experts think there’s been a culture shift among many white women, who question high rates of cesarean sections in hospitals and have come to think of home births with midwives as a preferable alternative.

“They are having conversations about it and influencing each other,” said Mathews, a CDC demographer.

Alaska had the most out-ofhospital births — about 1 in 17.

Women in remote locations may not able to get to hospitals in time for delivery.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

President Obama greets Café Beauregard owner Alice Bruno and her husband, Rob Chiovoloni, far left, during a visit to the eatery in New Britain, Conn., on Wednesday. Also at the counter with Obama are Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, center, and Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin.

Obama traveled to the Hartford, Conn., area to highlight the importance of raising the minimum wage. already become, Republicans seized on Obama’s appearance to accuse him of threatening to obliterate badly needed jobs.

Republicans cite a study from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimating the proposal would cut employment by roughly 500,000 jobs. The White House

disputes that finding, while embracing another finding from the same report that says more than 16.5 million people would see higher earnings by 2016.

“The problem is Republicans in Congress oppose raising the minimum wage. Now I don’t know if that’s just because I proposed it,” Obama

said to laughter from the largely supportive crowd.

“Maybe I should say I oppose raising the minimum wage, and they’d vote for it.”

Poking fun right back, House Speaker John Boehner’s office released a parody “fact sheet” in the style typically used by the White House to outline

Obama’s proposals.

The headline: “President Obama Offers Plan to Destroy Jobs for Low-Income Americans.”

“When folks are still struggling to find work in this economy, why would we make that any harder?” said Boehner spokesman Brendan Buck.

WHO: 5 percent of calories should be from sugar

BY MARIA CHENG AP Medical Writer LONDON — Just try sugar-coating this: The World Health Organization says your daily sugar intake should be just 5 percent of your total calories — half of what the agency previously recommended, according to new draft guidelines published Wednesday.

After a review of about 9,000 studies, WHO’s expert panel says dropping sugar intake to that level will combat obesity and cavities. That includes sugars added to foods and those present in honey, syrups and fruit juices, but not those occurring naturally in fruits.

Dr. Francesco Branca, WHO’s director for nutrition, conceded the new target was somewhat aspirational.

“We should aim for 5 percent if we can ... but 10 percent is more realistic,” he said in a news conference on Wednesday.

Americans and others in the West eat a lot more sugar than that: Their average sugar intake would have to drop by two-thirds to meet WHO’s suggested limit.

WHO’s new guidelines have been published online, and the agency is inviting the public to comment via its website until the end of March.

Many doctors applauded the U.N. agency’s attempt to limit the global sweet tooth.

“The less sugar you’re eating, the better,” said Dr. Robert Lustig, a professor of pediatrics at the University of California and author of a book about the dangers of sugar. “If the sugar threshold is lowered, I think breakfast cereal is going to have a really hard time justifying its existence,” he said, referring to sweetened cereals often targeted to children.

When WHO last revised its sugar guidelines more than a decade ago, it recommended sugar should be less than 10 percent of daily calories. The

U.S. sugar industry was so incensed it lobbied Congress to threaten to withdraw millions of dollars in funding to WHO. A contentious reference to the sugar limit was removed from a global diet strategy, but the recommendation passed.

Lustig said WHO’s new guidelines could alter the food environment by forcing manufacturers to rethink how they’re using sugar in processed foods such as bread, soups, pasta sauces and even salad dressings. He called the amount of sugar in processed food an “absolute, unmitigated disaster.”

WHO’s expert group found high sugar consumption is strongly linked to obesity and tooth decay. It noted that heavy people have a higher risk of chronic diseases, responsible for more than 60 percent of global deaths. Dental care costs up to 10 percent of health budgets in Western countries and cause significant problems in the developing world.

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Smutty tone dominates USA’s new ‘Sirens’

BY KEVIN MCDONOUGH How bad is “Sirens” (10 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., USA, TV-14), a sitcom about Chicago emergency medical technicians? It begins with a scene between Johnny (Michael Mosley) and his pretty ex-girlfriend, Theresa (Jessica McNamee), about online pornography.

This theme continues for most of the pilot.

A dying man on his way to the hospital begs three knucklehead EMTs to erase his search engine history, lest his wife discover his peculiar fetish. The guys, including Hank (Kevin Daniels) and Brian (Kevin Bigley), comply, but not before witnessing something so soul-shatteringly disgusting that they are reduced to silence.

I’m not a prude when it comes to the porn culture that dominates “Sirens,” but I’m a firm believer that when it enters the room, any hint of wit, sophistication or intelligent conversation quickly exits.

In its defense, “Sirens” strives to become an elaborate spoof on smut itself. Brian delivers a little speech about its harmful effects on “an entire generation of men.” But this strenuous conceit is burdened by zero character development.

Johnny’s best friend, Hank, is obviously black and is supposed to be gay. But you wouldn’t know that until he announces, “Hey, I’m black and I’m gay.” When Theresa and her girlfriends meet for drinks, their conversation quickly gets down to bra sizes. Yes, it’s that witty!

• Contrived characterizations and a smutty tone continue on “Saint George” (9 p.m., FX, TV14). George (George Lopez) is supposed to be the rich founder of an energy drink company who is also a public school teacher. He’s still close to his ex-wife, Mackenzie (Jenn Lyon), with whom he shares banter, but no chemistry.

Equally alien is their nerdy son, Harper (Kaden Gibson).

The cast includes David Zayas (“Dexter”) as a cousin, Danny Trejo (“Machete”) as George’s feisty uncle and Diana Maria Riva as the school principal who lusts after George.

George seems embarrassed by a world where people use cellphone technology to “sext” pictures of intimate body parts.

This being a “family” show, even George’s mother (Olga Merediz) jokes about masturbation.

• Andy Daly stars on “Review” (10 p.m., Comedy Central, TV-14) as a pompous critic/ pundit who “reviews” life experiences that are alien to him and describes them NPR-style for our illumination. Imagine “Borat” as “Charlie Rose.” “Review” doesn’t work.

TONIGHT’S OTHER HIGHLIGHTS • A social networking nightmare on “Community” (8 p.m., NBC, TV-PG).

• A Jabberwocky mystery on the returning “Once Upon a Time in Wonderland” (8 p.m., ABC, TV-PG).

• Tom and Ben want to organize a benefit concert on “Parks & Recreation” (8:30 p.m., NBC, TV-PG).

• The mayor complicates Keegan’s life on “Rake” (9 p.m.

Fox, TV-14).

• Kopus lords over Harold on “The Red Road” (9 p.m., Sundance, TV-14).

• Kristina’s new chapter on “Parenthood” (10 p.m., NBC, TVPG).

• Fitz rejects the truth on “Scandal” (10 p.m., ABC, TV-14).

• Ragnar assembles a curious coalition on “Vikings” (10 p.m., History, TV-14).

• Gold miners scour Greenland on “Ice Cold Gold” (10 p.m., Animal Planet, TV-PG).

SERIES NOTES Bernadette plays peacemaker

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AROUND TOWN The Shepherd’s Center, 24 Council St., will offer free public information sessions 11-11:50 a.m. each Thursday through March 13 as follows: today, spring gardening tips; and March 13, you are what you eat.

In recognition of March being Credit Education Month, the Sumter County Library will host free programs at the main branch, 111 N. Harvin St., as follows: 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 18, “Managing Your Finances” with Donna Holmes from SAFE Federal Credit Union; 1 p.m.

Wednesday, March 19, the documentary “Why Smart People Do Stupid Things with Money” will be presented; and 1 p.m.

Wednesday, March 26, “Lunch and Learn: Smart Investing and Banking Tips” with a representative from Wells Fargo, bring your lunch and enjoy the presentation while you eat.

Free income tax filing services and FAFSA applications will be provided through April 15 as follows: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays, 3-8 p.m. Saturdays, appointments only on Sundays, Goodwill JobLink Center, 1028 Broad St., (803) 774-5006; and 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, Lee County Adult Education, 123 E. College St., Bishopville, (803) 484-4040. Call Ms. Samuels at (803) 2408355.

The AARP Foundation TaxAide Program will offer free income tax assistance and electronic filing for taxpayers with low to middle incomes. All ages are welcome and you do not have to be an AARP member.

Assistance will be available 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays through April 15 at the Shepherd’s Center, 24 Council St. Call Lynda at (803) 469-8322.

The Transatlantic Brides and Parents Association (British Wives) will meet at 11 a.m.

Friday, March 7, at the Spectrum Senior Citizen Center, Pinewood Road.

You do not have to be a bride to attend. All exPats are welcome. We will be celebrating St. David of Wales and St. Patrick of Ireland. Call Josie at (803) 775-8052.

The Shepherd’s Center will hold a “One Pot Cook-Off” 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, March 7, at 24 Council St. Cost is $10 per person for all you can sample and eat. Take out will be available. Call (803) 773-1944 for details.

USA NETWORK

From left, Michael Mosley, Kevin Bigley and Kevin Daniels star in a scene from the USA sitcom “Sirens.” on “The Big Bang Theory” (8 p.m., CBS, TV-PG) * Nadia rues time lost on “The Vampire Diaries” (8 p.m., CW, TV-14) * Carol descends on “The Millers” (8:30 p.m., CBS, TV-PG) * Jealousy on “Two and a Half Men” (9 p.m., CBS, TV-14) * Mary mulls her options on “Reign” (9 p.m., CW, TV-14) * Simon’s biological clock is ticking on “The Crazy Ones” (9:30 p.m., CBS, TV14).

LATE NIGHT Paul Taylor is booked on “The Daily Show With Jon Stewart” (11 p.m., Comedy Central) * Kristin Chenoweth, Billy Connolly and Drive-By Truckers appear on “Conan” (11 p.m., TBS) * Mary McCormack guest-hosts Allison Janney,

Whitney Cummings, Fortune Feimster and Brad Wollack on “Chelsea Lately” (11 p.m., E!) * Theaster Gates is on “The Colbert Report” (11:30 p.m., Comedy Central) * Bob Mould is on “Late Show With David Letterman” (11:35 p.m., CBS) * Jimmy Fallon welcomes Lindsay Lohan, Billy Eichner and Bad Things on “The Tonight Show” (11:35 p.m., NBC) * Aaron Paul, Bellamy Young and Jetta appear on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” (11:35 p.m., ABC) * Martha Stewart and Lil Jon visit “Late Night With Seth Meyers” (12:35 a.m., NBC) * Craig Ferguson hosts Rosie Perez on “The Late Late Show” (12:35 a.m., CBS).

Copyright 2014, United Feature Syndicate

The Sumter County Active Lifestyles (SCAL) will hold its next community walk at noon Saturday, March 8, at Patriot Park, 200 General Drive. Walks are $1 per adult and free for children under 18, SCAL and SCOTM! members. Mary Nevins, water resources agent with Carolina Clear, will discuss rain gardens.

The Sumter Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind will meet at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, March 11, at Shiloh-Randolph Manor, 125 W. Bartlette St. Bertha W. McCants, Ed.D., will speak.

Transportation provided within the coverage area.

Contact Debra Canty at (803) 775-5792 or at DebraCanC2@frontier.com. Call (206) 376-5992 for ticket information about the April 19 barbecue.

The Clarendon County Republican Party will meet Thursday, March 13, at Cornerstone Free Will Baptist Church, 2116 Greeleyville Highway, Manning. Supper will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting will begin at 7 p.m. Leon Winn, GOP candidate for the 6th District congressional seat, Clarendon County NAACP President Robert McFadden and SCGOP Regional Field Director Martha Gravlee will speak.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

RELIGION

THE SUMTER ITEM

It’s not too late to make commitments to your faith

T

hough the religious holiday of Lent may not be observed by many of the denominations in Sumter, the event has a message for us all.

The six-week period commemorates the occasion of Jesus’s 40-day fast in the desert as recorded in Matthew, Mark and Luke.

Scripture holds that during this time, Jesus was tempted by the Devil himself. The season of Lent culminates in the celebration of Holy Week, when Jesus was crucified and resurrected.

In honor of that event, believers across the world celebrate Lent in a showing of self-denial, penance, atone-

Visit churches by trolley tour next month

BY JADE REYNOLDS jade@theitem.com (803) 774-1250 Sumter Trolley Tours LLC is kicking off its monthly church tours April 5.

“Our goal is actually threefold,” said owner Carletha Addison. “We would like to highlight the variety of religious organizations and their historical buildings present in Sumter County, offer our hometown caterers the opportunity to showcase their business and to introduce the public to Sumter Trolley Tours since it is a fairly new concept for this area.”

For $50, you can visit Trinity United Methodist Church and try appetizers provided by the Evening Pilot Club. At the next stop, the Church of the Holy Comforter, Catering for All Occasions will supply a main course. The final stop is Church of the Good Shepherd, where Serendipity Catering and Café will serve dessert.

“We looked at churches that have a long history in the community and buildings with interesting architectural features,” Addison said. “We also wanted to introduce some diversity in the mix.”

Each course will be followed by a half-hour presentation of church history provided by the hosts. Church representatives are invited to provide music for dining, Addison said.

The tour will begin at 11:30 a.m. April 5 at Sumter Opera House, 21 N. Main St., and the trolley will return about 3:30 p.m.

Tickets are available at all church locations, participating caterers and from Sumter Trolley Tours.

They are working on securing a Presbyterian church for the May tour, Addison said.

For more information, call (803) 773-0327 or visit sumtertrolleytours.com.

RELIGION BRIEF FROM ASSOCIATED PRESS REPORTS

Noah’s ark project will move forward LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A Christian ministry’s longstalled plans to build Noah’s Ark in the hills of Kentucky have been revived.

Creation Museum founder Ken Ham said a municipal bond offering has raised enough money to begin construction on the Ark Encounter project, estimated to cost about $73 million. Groundbreaking is planned for May, and the ark is expected to be finished by the summer of 2016.

Ham said a high-profile evolution debate he had with “Science Guy” Bill Nye earlier this month helped boost support for the project.

Nye said he was “heartbroken and sickened for the Commonwealth of Kentucky” after learning that the project would move forward.

ment and good works.

For many, it’s a time to draw close to their God by making a conscious effort to Faith Matters show the fruits of JAMIE H. their faith.

WILSON As believers, we can use the time to deepen our relationship with the Creator.

Pledges during Lent run the gamut from those who simply abstain from sweets to those who actually fast during the 40-day period. Some even use it, not just to “give up” something but to take

on some act of charity.

I find that even some of my brothers and sisters in the faith, who are a part of a religion that doesn’t pay tribute to Lent, still try to observe the holiday. There is something vastly alluring about changing course from your daily routine to find a deeper spiritual truth, to dedicate a portion of your year to finding spiritual meaning through physical acts.

In a way, I think the idea of Lent is attractive because most of us acknowledge the need to shake some of those daily distractions that drive a wedge between us and a closer relationship with God. I’m not

talking about the distractions that we can’t control — a snarl in traffic, a grumpy child, a frustration at work.

I’m speaking specifically about those self-applied comforts that we feel we need to get through the day such as the indulgence of a piece of office gossip or the watching of a TV show that, while funny, is morally bankrupt. Maybe your distraction is your pride.

While many of these things make us feel good in the moment, they have the potential to disrupt our dedication to our spiritual convictions.

The great news is that you have the ability to give

them up and focus on your faith. Those things that bring you down do not have to become permanent baggage in your spiritual life.

Hebrews 12:1 tells believers to throw aside those things that weigh us down in our spiritual journey. You can begin that process now by acknowledging and avoiding those distractions.

Today is the second day of Lent, and it’s certainly not too late to make a commitment today. It’s never too late to make a commitment to grow deeper in your faith.

Email Jamie H. Wilson at faithmatterssumter@gmail. com.

RELIGION

THE SUMTER ITEM

Ash Wednesday Mass

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

Tilly E., above, has ashes put on her forehead during Ash Wednesday Mass at St. Anne Catholic Church. The season of Lent began Wednesday.

A candle is lit during the annual service at the church on Wednesday.

PHOTOS BY MATT WALSH / THE SUMTER ITEM

FROM STAFF REPORTS

Men invited to church’s annual Wild Game Night First Baptist Church of Sumter will hold its annual Men’s Wild Game Night on Friday at the church, 107 E. Liberty St.

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Local Methodists unite for Lenten services

BY IVY MOORE ivym@theitem.com (803) 774-1221

RELIGION BRIEF

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Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the church.

Seminars on turkey and duck calls will begin at 4:30 p.m., with dinner beginning at 6 p.m.

Besides an opportunity to try a variety of wild game meats, attendees will be able to see trucks, boats and ATVs. There will also be door prizes.

For more information, call the church at (803) 773-3732.

Wednesday began the holiest season in the Christian calendar, a time when Christians concentrate on the period leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Sumter’s seven United Methodist Church congregations have decided this year to combine for “a special Lenten worship experience” on each Sunday of Lent, beginning this weekend and ending on Palm Sunday, April 13.

The Rev. Reginald Thackston, interim pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church, which is the host church, said he has long wanted to participate in a collaborative project with other UMC churches.

“A number of years ago, before I retired, a group of Methodist ministers used to get together for breakfast, and we talked about such a project,” Thackston said.

“For one reason or another, it never came to pass.”

Recently, Thackston mentioned the idea to Trinity’s worship committee, “and they got excited,” he said.

The committee’s chairwoman, Jodie Smith, and the committee have been working with Thackston in preparing to serve as hosts.

Thackston also called the other ministers, they met and, he said, “We talked for about 30 minutes, and said, ‘let’s do it.’ Everything is a ‘go.’”

Churches participating are Trinity, Aldersgate, Emmanuel/Mount Zion, St. Mark, St. John and St. James United Methodist churches.

On each Sunday, four churches will alternate responsibility for one of the four elements of the program: meal, music, liturgy and sermon.

Thackston said the programs will follow the traditional order of

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH LENTEN SERVICES 6:30 p.m. Sundays, March 9-April 13 • March 9: Music, Aldersgate; Liturgy — the Rev. Doris Bright, Emmanuel/Mount Zion; Sermon — the Rev. Randall Haase, St. Mark • March 16: Music, St. Mark; Liturgy — the Rev. Webb Belangia, Aldersgate; Sermon — the Rev. Mary Johnson, St. James • March 23: Music, Trinity; Liturgy — the Rev. Bob Huggins, St. John; Sermon — the Rev. Doris Bright, Emmanuel/Mount Zion • March 30: Music, St. James; Liturgy — the Rev. Angela Marshall, Trinity; Sermon — the Rev. Webb Belangia, Aldersgate • April 6: Music, Emmanuel/Mt. Zion; Liturgy — the Rev. Mary Johnson, St. James; Sermon — the Rev. Bob Huggins, St. John • April 13: Music — St. John; Liturgy — the Rev. Randall Haase, St. Mark; Sermon — the Rev. Dr. Robin Dease, Hartsville District superintendent

service, and the sermons will be brief and will focus on some aspect of Lent.

“I’m sure we will focus on the story of the cross and sacrifice and personal spiritual discipline,” he said.

The final sermon on Palm Sunday will be delivered by the Rev. Dr. Robin Dease, district superintendent.

The 6:30 p.m. Sunday sermons will not take the place of regular Sunday services but will be an addition. A simple meal of soup and sandwich will be served in the Trinity Fellowship Hall at 6 p.m.

There is no charge, and no offering will be collected, Thackston said, adding “however, donations will be accepted to help feed the hungry and homeless.” The public is invited to attend.

Trinity UMC is located at 226 W. Liberty St. Call (803) 773-9393 for more information.

CHURCH NEWS Bethany Fellowship Baptist Church, 350 E. Red Bay Road, announces: * Sunday — Family and friends day at 11 a.m. The Rev. Sandra Simmons will speak.

Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, 4319 Rowe Drive, Summerton, announces: * Friday — Youth ministry barbecue sale. Cost: $5 per sandwich or $8 per pound of barbecue. * Sunday — Trustee and trustee wives 17th annual program at 2 p.m. The Rev. Johnnie L. Lawson Sr., pastor of New Light Missionary Baptist Church, Davis Station, will speak. Dinner will be served.

Canty Memorial Church of God In Christ Ministries, 873 Woodcrest St., announces: * Sunday — Usher board anniversary program at 4 p.m.

The Rev. Lorenzo Small, of Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church of Lancaster, will speak. * Thursday-Friday, March 27-28 — Revival and first Young Believers Conference at 7 nightly. Elect Lady Chantelle Hutchins and Minister Torey Fountain will speak.

Clark United Methodist Church, 2980 U.S. 401 N., Oswego Highway, announces: * Sunday, March 23 — 50 state rally at 11 a.m.

Community Church of Praise, 562 S. Pike Road, announces: * Sunday, March 30 — Initial sermon of Evangelist Ella Wright at 3 p.m. * Friday, April 18 — Good Friday service. Pastor Dorothy P. Maple will speak.

Concord Baptist Church, 1885 Myrtle Beach Highway, announces: * Friday, March 21 — Gospel singing at 7 p.m. featuring “Loose Stone.” A love offering will be received. * Tuesday-Thursday, April 1-3 — Rivers of Joy Jubilee with Dr. Dennis Benton at 7 nightly. Music provided by Squire Parsons, The Diplomats and The Achormen.

Emmanuel United Methodist

Church, 421 S. Main St., announces: * Sunday — Women in the pulpit. Yolanda D. Wilson, executive director of YWCA of the Upper Lowlands Inc., will speak. Sunday school begins at 10 a.m. followed by 11:30 a.m. worship.

First Baptist Missionary Church, 219 S. Washington St., announces: * Wednesday-Friday, March 19-21 — Spring Revival at 7 nightly with speakers as follows: Wednesday, the Rev. E.L. Sanders, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church of Pinewood and Mt. Joshua Baptist Church of Camden; Thursday, the Rev. Vernon Holland, pastor of Antioch Baptist Church of Hartsville; and Friday, the Rev. Clemon Grant, pastor of Central Baptist Church of Salters. * Sunday, March 23 — Benedict College Day will be observed at 11 a.m. David Swinton, the college president, will speak. The Benedict College Chorale will provide music.

Grant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, 5405 Black River Road, Rembert, announces: * Sunday, March 16 — Pastoral anniversary celebration.

Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. followed by 10 a.m. worship.

High Hills Missionary Baptist Church, 6750 Meeting House Road, Dalzell, announces: * Friday, March 21 — Spring musical at 7:30 p.m. * Sunday, March 23 — Anniversary of choir number two during 10:15 a.m. worship.

Joshua Baptist Church, 5200 Live Oak Road, Dalzell, announces: * Sunday — Parade of youth program during morning worship. * Sunday, March 16 — YWA anniversary celebration during morning worship. * Sunday, March 30 — Youth service. Church school begins at 9 a.m. followed by 10 a.m. worship.

Knitting Hearts Ministry, meets at Bethesda Church of

God, 2730 Broad St., announces: * Saturday — Knitting Hearts Café will meet 10 a.m.noon. Dr. Linda Myers will speak. First Glimpse Praise Band will provide music and Shelica Daniels will present an interpretive dance. All women are invited for a time of fellowship, worship and the word. www.knittingheartsministry.org Land Flowing with Milk & Honey Ministry, 1335 Peach Orchard Road, announces: * Sunday — Ordination and installation service at 4 p.m. for Dr. Alec Bradley Jr., Presiding Bishop L.V. Williams and Pastor Ray Mathis Jr. * Sunday, March 16 — Evangelist Tonya Mack will speak at 11 a.m. There will be a pastor’s appreciation service at 4 p.m. for Pastor Ray and Prophetess Stephanie Mathis.

Prophetess Rose Clark-Summers, of Greensboro, N.C., will speak. * Sunday, March 30 — Youth with Swag at 11 a.m. RaySean Mathis will speak.

Mount Pisgah AME Church, 217 W. Bartlette St., announces: * Sunday, March 16 — Gospel concert at 5:30 p.m. featuring Voices of Deliverance of Charleston.

Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 325 Fulton St., announces: * Sunday, March 16 — Pastor’s support ministry anniversary worship celebration at 10:45 a.m. Deacon ordination / deaconess consecration worship celebration will be held at 4 p.m. Pastor Donald E. Greene Jr., of Andrew Chapel Baptist Church in Orangeburg and vice president at large of Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention of South Carolina, will speak. * Sunday, March 30 — Youth worship celebration at 10:45 a.m. Minister Darryl Cunningham, Morris College student, will speak.

Mulberry Missionary Baptist Church, 1400 Mulberry Church Road, announces:

* Sunday — Trustee and trustee wives anniversary at 10:45 a.m. Pastor Nate Brock will speak. The contemporary mass choir’s annual program will be held at 4 p.m. featuring Britton United Mass Choir.

New Fellowship Covenant Ministries, 316 W. Liberty St., announces: * Saturday — Clothes giveaway 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free snack also.

New Testament Lighthouse Church, 1114 Boulevard Road, announces: * Saturday — Gospel singing at 6 p.m. featuring the Sycamore Singers.

Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church, U.S. 52 South, Salters, announces: * Sunday, March 16 — Fourth pastoral anniversary of Pastor David Woods Jr. at 3:30 p.m. Pastor Carnell Witherspoon, of Mount Chapel Baptist Church in Manning, will speak.

Orangehill AME Church, 3035 S. King Highway, Wedgefield, announces: * Sunday — 15th anniversary celebration of the male chorus at 3 p.m.

Pinewood Baptist Church, S.C. 261, Pinewood, announces: * Sunday-Wednesday, March 16-19 — Revival services at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday and 7 nightly Monday-Wednesday.

The Rev. Kirk Carlisle will speak. Dinner served at 5:45 p.m. in the fellowship hall Monday-Wednesday. Nursery provided for all services. Call (803) 452-5373 or visit www. pinewoodbaptist.org.

Sheppard Ministries, 8490 Two Mile Road, Lynchburg, announces: * Friday, March 21 — Gospel singing at 7 p.m. at Freedom Worship Pentecostal Holiness Church, 1490 Florence Highway. On the program: Joyful Echoes from Marion, the Singing Sheppards and others.

St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church, 7650 Summerton Highway, Silver community, Pine-

wood, announces: * Sunday — “Satan on Trial” will be presented at 1:30 p.m. The production is presented by Billy and Juanita Bozier and written and directed by Deacon Anthony Canty.

Requested donation is $10 for the church building fund. Call (803) 452-7079 or Azalee Williams at (803) 236-6451.

St. Matthews Missionary Baptist Church, 1126 St. Matthew Lane, Manning, announces: * Sunday, March 16 — Men’s Day celebration at 2 p.m. The Rev. Sam Livingston, pastor of Antioch Baptist Church of Manning, Jordan community, will speak.

Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, 155 Wall St., announces: * Sunday, March 23 — Pastor Larry C. Weston’s 25th pastoral anniversary appreciation celebration at 10 a.m. Dr. James S. Hall, pastor of Triumph Baptist Church of Philadelphia, Pa., will speak. * Friday, March 28 — Anniversary concert at 7:30 p.m. featuring gospel recording artist Bishop Paul S. Morton.

Tickets may be purchased at the church. * Saturday, March 29 — God’s Girls Rock Cotillion at 4 p.m. Call (803) 775-4041.

Unity Baptist Church, 4000 U.S. 15 South, announces: * Today-Saturday — Revival 6:30-8 nightly with speakers as follows: today, the Rev. Dennis Benton; Friday, the Rev. Ron Underwood; and Saturday, the Rev. Dr. Richard Harris.

Walker Avenue Church of God, 100 Walker Ave., announces: * Sunday — Usher’s anniversary program at 4 p.m.

Minister Maggie Richardson will speak.

Westend Community Church, 101 S. Salem St., announces: * Saturday — Voices of High Praise reunion concert, part one, at 6 p.m. featuring recording artist Anton Milton of Anton Milton and Glorified of Mount Laurel, N.J., and Pastor Donnell Peterson and Rhema of Greensboro, N.C.

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NATION | WORLD

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

THE SUMTER ITEM

Russia, West try to hammer out Ukraine diplomacy PARIS (AP) — Facing off in Europe’s capitals Wednesday, Russia and the West began building the elements of a diplomatic solution to Europe’s gravest crisis since the Cold War — even as the West appeared increasingly resigned to an entrenched Russian presence in Crimea.

NATO hit back by putting Russia on suspension, and the European Union extended $15 billion in aid to Ukraine, matching the amount the country’s fugitive president accepted from Moscow to turn his back on an EU trade accord.

As peace efforts got underway in Paris and Brussels, volatility reigned on the ground in Ukraine: A special U.N. envoy visiting Crimea came under threat by armed men who forced him to leave the region. Meanwhile, hundreds of demonstrators, many chanting “Russia! Russia!” stormed a government building in eastern Ukraine — renewing fears that turmoil could spill out of Crimea and engulf other Russian-dominated parts of Ukraine.

Ukraine’s prime minister told The Associated Press in his first interview since tak-

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov meet at the Russian Ambassador’s Residence in Paris on Wednesday. Russia rebuffed Western demands to withdraw forces in Ukraine’s Crimea region to their bases on Wednesday amid a day of high-stakes diplomacy in Paris aimed at easing tensions over Ukraine and averting the risk of war. ing office that he still feared Russian President Vladimir Putin might attempt more land grabs: “Mr. President,” Arseniy Yatsenyuk said, “stop this mess.”

Yatsenyuk vowed to keep Crimea as part of Ukraine, but expressed openness to granting it more autonomy.

Ukraine’s foreign minister,

Studies show big promise for HIV prevention drug

BY MARILYNN MARCHIONE AP Chief Medical Writer Exciting research suggests that a shot every one to three months may someday give an alternative to the daily pills that some people take now to cut their risk of getting HIV. The experimental drug has only been tested for prevention in monkeys, but it completely protected them from infection in two studies reported at an AIDS conference on Tuesday.

“This is the most exciting innovation in the field of HIV prevention that I’ve heard recently,” said Dr. Robert Grant, an AIDS expert at the Gladstone Institutes, a foundation affiliated with the University of California, San Francisco.

“Both groups are showing 100 percent protection” with the drug, Grant said of the two groups of researchers. “If it works and proves to be safe, it would allow for HIV to be prevented with periodic injections, perhaps every three months.”

Until a vaccine is developed, condoms are the best way to prevent infection with the AIDS virus and many other sexually spread diseases. But not everyone uses them, or does so all the time, so public health officials have pursued other prevention options.

A drug used to treat people with HIV — Gilead Science’s Truvada — also is used to help prevent infection in people who don’t have the virus.

A big study in gay men a few

years ago found it could cut this risk by up to 90 percent, depending on how faithfully people take the daily pills.

The new research tested something that could make this type of prevention much more practical — a long-acting experimental drug made

by GlaxoSmithKline PLC. The studies tested it in macaques exposed to a human-monkey version of HIV. Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gave six monkeys shots of the drug every four weeks; six others got dummy shots. All were exposed to the virus twice a week for 11 weeks.

The monkeys who got the fake treatment were readily infected “but the animals that received the long-acting drug remained protected,” said study leader Gerardo GarciaLerma of the CDC. The results mirror what was seen in the CDC’s early research in monkeys on Truvada, the pill that’s available for HIV prevention now.

In the second study, Chasity Andrews and others at the Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center at Rockefeller University in New York gave eight monkeys two shots of the drug, four weeks apart, and dummy shots to eight others. The animals were exposed to the virus weekly for eight weeks. Again, all animals given the fake treatment were quickly infected, and those on the drug were all protected.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

An H9 T cell is seen infected with the human immunodeficiency virus.

Research suggests that a periodic shot may someday give an alternative to the daily pills that some people take now to cut their risk of getting HIV from sex with an infected partner.

Andriy Deshchytsia, told the AP that pro-Russian citizens in Crimea must be willing to replace armed forces with international observers if they want a vote on more self-rule.

But most of the bargaining chips Wednesday belonged to Russia, whose troops are fanned out across Crimea and control most of its strate-

gic facilities.

A growing chorus of prominent American voices expressed resignation that Crimea was lost to Russia: “I’m not optimistic they’re going to leave,” said Michael McFaul, who served as Obama’s ambassador to Russia until last week.

U.S. Secretary of State John

BILL FROM PAGE A1 installations within the Palmetto State, meaning these service men and women could have two homes in South Carolina qualifying for the lower rate.

Rental properties, which are often what these unsold homes become when military personnel are unable to sell, are taxed at a higher, six-percent rate in South Carolina, rather than the four-percent rate reserved for owner-occupied homes. Spouses of armed forces personnel will also qualify for the lower rate.

Haley is expected to sign the bill that, after some slight amendments, was passed unanimously by both bodies of the general assembly. Once approved, the bill will be-

PENNY TAX FROM PAGE A1 circulating. City Councilman Calvin Hastie, who is not a stakeholder, feels the city should have more of an input into the largely county-led process.

“All the councilmen are supposed to be on one group, and I’ve only been to one meeting (about the penny tax),” Hastie said. “I’ve had people in my area ask me about the penny tax, their concerns about things they want on the list, and whether they can get involved with these groups.”

Hastie wants to see more attention paid to the southside of Sumter, especially the Manning Avenue corridor, which he said was neglected by the previous Penny for Progress.

“I definitely think they could do a better job of reaching out to people to find out what they want to see done, what they need,” Hastie said.

Two stakeholders will represent each of the lead groups that met to propose projects, with two other seats held ex officio by McCormick and County Administrator Gary Mixon.

Other seats are also held by officeholders; Sumter County Council Chairman Larry

Kerry, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and several European counterparts conducted an intense round of diplomacy in Paris to try to find an exit strategy in Ukraine.

Speaking at a news conference after the talks, Kerry said the encounter was “very constructive, without promising something that is not defined yet, without raising hopes that are inappropriate to raise.”

“I want to be realistic. This is hard tough stuff, and a very serious moment,” Kerry said.

“But I’d rather be where we are today than where we were yesterday.”

“I personally feel that I have something concrete to take back and talk to President Obama about,” Kerry said, though he didn’t specify what that was.

While negotiations were inconclusive, top European officials expressed optimism that at least the two sides were talking — and making progress.

“For the first time, starting with this meeting in Paris, something moved in the right direction,” said French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius.

come effective immediately.

Lawmakers also think the legislation helps protect the state against future military cuts if and when armed force leaders decide to hold another round of base closings.

“Not only do we have to prepare our bases fiscally for the next round of BRAC (base realignment and closure), but we also need to concentrate on the quality of life for our military families,” Smith said.

Despite the unanimous support of legislators, the bill took nearly two years to clear the general assembly.

Smith said the lengthy timing was primarily because of the conflicting calendars of the state Senate and the House of Representatives. “Unfortunately, that’s just the legislative process,” Smith said.

Blanding and councilman Charles Edens will represent the county, while their counterparts, Sumter Mayor Joe McElveen and city councilman Thomas “Bubba” Lowery, will represent the city of Sumter.

State Rep. David Weeks is an at-large representative, along with Dr. Michael Mikota, director of the Santee-Lynches Council of Governments. Sheriff Anthony Dennis is part of the public safety contingent, along with Sumter Police Chief Russell Roark.

The other half of the stakeholders’ group represent specific organizations.

The Sumter Economic Development Board has Chairman Greg A. Thompson and president and CEO Jay Schwedler; the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce sends President Grier Blackwelder and incoming Chairman Bob Smith. The educational field will be represented by Dr. Tim Hardee, president of Central Carolina Technical College, and Morris College professor Dr. Jacob Butler.

The last two groups were selected atlarge. Dr. Tavita S. Herriott and Josephine Young were in the lead group for rural residents, while Bradford and an unidentified second person are part of the young professionals’ group.

Carnival, passengers in court over 2013 disabled ship ordeal MIAMI (AP) — About three dozen passengers who sailed on the ill-fated Carnival Triumph cruise ship that drifted at sea for days are hoping to collect thousands of dollars apiece as a result of lingering medical and mental problems they say were caused by their nightmarish experience.

Their lawsuit, the first to go to trial since the February 2013 cruise, is being vigorously defended by Miami-based Carnival Corp., which contends the passengers cannot show such problems as kidney stones, posttraumatic stress disorder and scratchy throats are linked to unsanitary conditions or the fire that disabled the engine. At stake is perhaps millions of dollars, as well as the industry’s restrictive policy — printed on each ticket — that governs the kinds of lawsuits passengers can file.

Passenger Debra Oubre, of Friendswood, Texas, who said she has worked in cruise line shore operations and has enjoyed a dozen cruises, said she joined the suit to hold someone accountable.

“Many of us, if not all of us, were physically or emotionally hurt,” she said. “I just want the truth to be told.”

Again and again during the three-week

‘Many of us, if not all of us, were physically or emotionally hurt. I just want the truth to be told.’

DEBRA OUBRE Passenger from Friendswood, Texas, who sailed on Carnival Triumph in February 2013 trial, Triumph passengers have told their story to Senior U.S. District Judge Donald Graham, who is hearing the case without a jury. Testimony is expected to wrap up this week, and Graham could decide whether the passengers deserve any damages at any time.

Some Triumph passengers testified on Carnival’s behalf Wednesday, including James Ede, of Houston, who said the crew kept them well-informed and provided plenty of water.

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

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014 H.G. Osteen 1870-1955 Founder, The Item

H.D. Osteen 1904-1987 The Item

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Margaret W. Osteen 1908-1996 The Item Hubert D. Osteen Jr. Chairman & Editor-in-Chief Graham Osteen Co-President Kyle Osteen Co-President Jack Osteen Editor and Publisher Larry Miller CEO Braden Bunch Senior News Editor

20 North Magnolia Street, Sumter, South Carolina 29150 • Founded October 15, 1894

COMMENTARY

Once upon a moonbeam W

ASHINGTON — In matters cultural, California has always been America’s petri dish. Whatever happened in California usually infiltrated the rest of the country.

Today there is reason to hope that other trends collecting on our far-left coast (geographically speaking) might infect the nation, especially in matters of governance and fiscal responsibility.

Jerry Brown, about to begin a run for his fourth term as governor, has shed the “Governor Moonbeam” moniker that he has worn like an itchy suit for nearly 40 years, compliments of famed Chicago columnist Mike Royko (RIP, 1997). Even Royko later regretted the nickname and tried to retract it after hearing Brown speak at the 1980 Democratic National Convention, saying Brown seemed to be the only Democrat who understood the challenges that lay ahead.

There is cause today to resurrect this observation.

In his elder years — not to be confused with elderly — Brown has traded earlier dreams of a California space program for more downto-earth policies that reflect a reKathleen spect for non-ideological pragmaParker tism. At times, he sounds more Republican than Democrat and, not to get carried away, as though he may be sipping a little tea on the side.

Since becoming governor again in 2011 following a decades-long hiatus (he also served as governor from 1975 to 1983), Brown has turned around the state’s budget from deficit to surplus. When NBC’s David Gregory asked Brown whether his fiscal success in California carried any lessons for Washington, Brown was candid and jaw-droppingly refreshing.

“Well, you’ve got to be tough on spending. No matter how liberal you want to be,” he said. Did he say tough on spending? Hold on to your flip-flops, there’s more.

“At the end of the day, fiscal discipline is the fundamental predicate of a free society. And you just have to maintain that.”

Listening to the interview, I did wonder for a few seconds whether Republican John Boehner had body-snatched the governor and was using Brown to channel his thoughts. Indeed, Brown sounded more like the speaker of the House than the president of the United States, whose own $4 trillion budget was just released.

Although Brown and President Obama share similar goals, especially in infrastructure spending (Brown wants to build a high-speed rail system in California), the governor recognizes that such projects have to be considered within a broader commitment to balance.

“Spend more. But in the framework of adjusting your long-term liabilities. And that’s not the case today,” said Brown.

As one example of how Brown has had to stand tough on spending, his budget did not include an item pushed by California’s Democratic Senate president pro tempore to create a universal prekindergarten program for 4-year-olds. The program would have cost the state about $1 billion a year to benefit 350,000 children.

When did Jerry Brown start hating 4-year-olds?

He doesn’t, of course, but reducing spending is always painful for someone. It is also sometimes necessary.

On other subjects of current interest, Brown observed how much things have changed in the four decades since he was first governor and dating Linda Ronstadt. On pot legalization, he was again sane — and conservative.

First, Brown said he’d like to see how things play out in Colorado and Washington, where recreational marijuana use has been legalized. Second, he said that while some things are fine in a certain amount, we have a tendency to go to extremes.

“How many people can get stoned and still have a great state or a great nation? The world’s pretty dangerous, very competitive. I think we need to stay alert, if not 24 hours a day, more than some of the potheads might be able to put together.”

All things conservative are not always sane, needless to say. And liberals have moved the country forward in necessary ways. Balance is the key, and it would appear that Brown has found his center.

His comments took many by surprise not only because they don’t jibe with our recollection of Governor Moonbeam but because they make so much sense.

If the political center where most Americans dwell is starved for a leader, Jerry Brown may be the model for what they seek.

It’s too bad that he essentially has conferred the Democratic presidential nomination on Hillary Clinton. Some would say Brown is too old and perhaps, at 75, he is. But if youth brought us Governor Moonbeam, an older, wiser Brown gives us hope.

By all means, please pass the petri dish.

Kathleen Parker’s email address is kathleenparker@ washpost.com. © 2014, Washington Post Writers Group

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Service proved how much Bowman meant to Sumter I just want to comment on the celebration of life for Dr. Leroy Bowman (Tuskegee airman) last Saturday at Jehovah Bap-

tist. The service was moving and the attendance showed just how much Dr. Bowman meant to the Sumter community. He was our hero. And to see the procession ride down Manning Avenue with the horse-drawn

carriage carrying the remains of Dr. Bowman was an amazing sight to see. What a proper way to honor a man like Dr. Bowman.

WILLIAM GATES Sumter

bring the former Soviet republics back into the fold, whether as formal parts of Russia or as unquestioned allies over which Russia exercises control. None is considered more important than the Ukraine.

With Putin now using military power and other armtwisting to take over the strategic Crimea, it is likely only a matter of time before the rest of the Ukraine is next. And there is nothing that the United States and the West are prepared to do about it, at least militarily. Though Republicans such as South Carolina U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham are right that the Obama administration’s response to date has been weak, no one can envision a scenario in which forces from this country or any other attempt to intervene with Russian military action in the Crimea, in the Ukraine or, in reality, anywhere in what was the former Soviet Union.

The West’s most potent weapon, however, is not a military threat. It is the reality of what economic sanctions against Russia would mean. This is not the world of the 1980s when the Russian economy was insulated; this is the global economy of 2014 in which Russia is a player.

Putin could win militarily and lose big time in the bigger picture.

That is why he would be wise to look for an alternative that gives him the control he wants while ratcheting down the military pressure ...

islation called the Senior Trafficking and Exploitation Reform of 2014.

In summary, the legislation “strengthens vulnerable adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation laws.” The legislation closes loopholes and addresses forms of abuse not defined in the current law. The legislation “beefs up punishment for anyone who attempts to threaten or intimidate a vulnerable adult or senior involved in an abuse-related investigation,” according to a summary of the bill. Senior citizens are defined as persons 60 years of age or older; a vulnerable adult is a person 18 or older who is impaired by a physical or mental condition.

The state’s 60 and older population was nearly 915,000 in 2010 and is projected to increase to 1.2 million in 2020, according to the bill. Projections of 2020 numbers for individual counties are not available.

The Omnibus Adult Protection Act of 2006 pertains to seniors in long-term care facilities or who are disabled but “does not protect the many seniors who are able to live independently.” The new legislation says “human trafficking of senior citizens is a growing problem, whether through deprivation of food and medication by a caregiver or placement in or transfer to a facility with unsafe and unsanitary conditions.”

In the reform legislation, “exploitation” includes specific language on causing vulnerable adults or senior citizens to purchase goods or services by means or “undue influence, harassment, duress, force, coercion or swindling by overreaching, cheating or defrauding.”

McConnell says of the legislation: “We want to send a clear message that if you intentionally set out to exploit or abuse a senior or adults with disabilities, you will get more than a slap on the wrist.”

A growing population of seniors probably means an increased number of people all too willing to cheat a segment of the overall population that is more vulnerable than younger adults.

The Senior Trafficking and Exploitation Reform of 2014 legislation deserves serious consideration in the General Assembly. We urge Grand Strand state representatives and senators to support it.

EDITORIAL ROUNDUP Recent editorials from South Carolina newspapers:

The Aiken Standard March 3

Concealed-carry law has other, less known changes The new concealed-carry law recently passed in South Carolina has been a hot-button issue since the day it was passed.

The law allows concealedweapon permit holders to carry guns into establishments that serve alcohol. That provision of the law, in itself, is one that can be debated at length.

But a lesser-known aspect of the law goes beyond the realm of debatable and into the territory of downright scary.

Before the new law was passed allowing permit holders to carry guns in places that serve alcohol, anyone who obtained a concealed-carry permit in South Carolina had to undergo an eight-hour training course.

Now, under the new law, the length of the concealed carry training course is up to the instructor, as long as the permit applicant passes the state-mandated written test and a 50round qualification course. If the applicant does that, the instructor can sign the certificate, and a resident can carry a concealed weapon almost anywhere, including bars ...

Even though that’s a bit more understandable piece of the law, it still can leave a large training gap. For both groups, the training they received regarding weapons use is much different that what would be applicable in a civilian world.

The additions tacked onto the bill — provisions most South Carolina residents weren’t even aware of when they supported the bill — are what makes this new law downright dangerous.

The Times and Democrat March 4

Russia, Putin will not cede influence in Crimea, Ukraine Any worry that Russian leader Vladimir Putin had about the image of Russia before, during and after the Winter Olympics is long gone. ...

Putin appears determined to

The Sun News March 2

Senior protection reform legislation due The movie “Nebraska,” ... is about a senior citizen’s determined quest to collect the $1 million he thinks he has won in a sweepstakes. It is a poignant story and so true to the real-life experiences of many whose parents have been the victims of all manner of scams.

In real life, of course, the exploitation of seniors often is much more serious than a misleading announcement of sweepstakes winnings. S.C. Lt. Gov. Glenn McConnell, whose responsibilities include the Office on Aging, has proposed leg-

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? Send your letter to letters@theitem.com, drop it off at The Item office, 20 N. Magnolia St., or mail it to The Item, P.O. Box 1677, Sumter, SC 29151, along with the writer’s full name, address and telephone number (for verification purposes only). Letters that exceed 350 words will be cut accordingly in the print edition, but available in their entirety at www.theitem.com/opinion/letters_to_editor.

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THE SUMTER ITEM

WEATHER

PARK FROM PAGE A1 plans for the now vacant lot.

“We’re not going to wait to make it a nice, useable space,” City Manager Deron McCormick told council Tuesday as he outlined plans for the green.

Council members approved a bid by J.F. Contractors of Sumter to lay sod, plant trees and lay utilities inside the proposed park, at a cost of $194,824.40.

The city spent a similar amount of money to demolish the building in November, which was acquired in 2012. The 107-year-old storefront was demolished after the leases for both businesses expired. At the time, county records show the owners were producing $9,500 in property taxes annually.

While the plan is to make the green a pleasant space for public events or just for pedestrians strolling through, putting a hotel in the space along North Main Street is still the longterm goal. Plans for Sumter Green take that into consideration.

“Anything we put in will be reusable, including the sod,” McCormick said. “We can spade the trees and move them somewhere else.”

While officials still await for movement on the hotel front, downtown manager Howie

DAILY PLANNER

Owens said he’s already heard from groups interested in using the land for upcoming events.

“United Way is going to hold a fundraiser on (Kentucky) Derby Day,” Owens said. “We’ve talked about setting up the stage for downtown concerts there, so we don’t have to close the road so early and affect those businesses.”

Plans for the open space would include walkways and lighting so the space is visible at night, while keeping plans “as flexible as possible” for any future development.

In other actions on Tuesday, council approved a separate contract with Utility Services of Perry, Ga., to repaint the Alice Drive water tank.

“Every 10 to 12 years we rotate work on a tank, so every year and a half we’re painting a tank,” said Al Harris, assistant city manager for public services, in presenting the proposal.

Utility Services will also be asked to provide “security documentation” on the city’s seven other elevated tanks, which is required to ensure they comply with Department of Health and Environmental Control regulations.

The contract with Utility Services is worth $95,900.

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2014

AccuWeather® five-day forecast for Sumter TODAY

TONIGHT

Breezy and colder with rain

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

Pleasant and warmer

Periods of clouds and sun

Pleasant with plenty of sunshine

Breezy with periods Breezy and warmer of rain with rain

38°

36°

47° / 34°

69° / 47°

70° / 39°

70° / 45°

Chance of rain: 80%

Chance of rain: 80%

Chance of rain: 85%

Chance of rain: 5%

Chance of rain: 5%

Chance of rain: 10%

Winds: WSW 4-8 mph

Winds: NNW 7-14 mph

Winds: SSW 6-12 mph

Winds: NE 12-25 mph

Winds: NNE 12-25 mph Winds: NNE 10-20 mph

TODAY’S SOUTH CAROLINA WEATHER

Gaffney 46/31 Spartanburg 48/31

Greenville 47/31

Columbia 40/37

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

Sumter 38/36

IN THE MOUNTAINS Aiken 38/36

ON THE COAST

Charleston 49/45

Today: Rain, some heavy, and a thunderstorm; windy. High 47 to 51.

Friday: Rain; warmer in northern parts.

High 52 to 56.

LOCAL ALMANAC

LAKE LEVELS

SUMTER THROUGH 4 P.M. YESTERDAY

Today Hi/Lo/W 44/33/r 30/21/pc 58/39/s 27/17/pc 60/37/pc 72/55/pc 61/47/c 30/25/pc 78/63/t 31/25/c 84/62/s 63/49/sh 34/27/c

SUN AND MOON 7 a.m. yest.

357.95 75.07 74.34 97.94

24-hr chg -0.16 -0.15 -0.13 +0.32

Sunrise 6:45 a.m.

Moonrise 10:08 a.m.

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

0.04" 0.09" 0.65" 5.88" 5.97" 8.07"

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

Full pool 360 76.8 75.5 100

Lake Murray Marion Moultrie Wateree

41° 33° 63° 38° 86° in 1976 21° in 1980

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

Fri. Hi/Lo/W 55/45/r 38/25/pc 70/49/pc 38/29/pc 68/49/pc 77/56/s 63/48/s 42/34/c 72/50/pc 44/34/c 83/58/pc 66/47/pc 45/34/c

Myrtle Beach 47/41

Manning 38/37

Today: Cloudy with a touch of rain. Winds northeast 10-20 mph.

Friday: Rain, mainly early. Winds northnortheast 7-14 mph.

Temperature High Low Normal high Normal low Record high Record low

Florence 40/35

Bishopville 39/36

Sunset Moonset

6:22 p.m. none

First

Full

Last

New

Mar. 8

Mar. 16

Mar. 23

Mar. 30

TIDES

Flood 7 a.m. 24-hr stage yest. chg 12 9.02 -0.13 19 5.70 +1.80 14 6.56 -0.34 14 5.32 +1.57 80 78.05 -0.73 24 7.50 -0.30

AT MYRTLE BEACH

Today Fri.

High 12:27 a.m.

12:56 p.m.

1:17 a.m.

1:47 p.m.

Ht. 3.1 2.7 3.0 2.6

Low Ht. 7:29 a.m. 0.0 7:38 p.m. -0.1 8:23 a.m. 0.4 8:29 p.m. 0.2

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 46/29/r 46/32/r 39/36/r 48/46/r 50/49/r 49/45/r 47/31/r 50/34/r 40/37/r 40/36/r 45/42/c 41/38/r 42/37/r

Fri. Hi/Lo/W 54/32/r 53/38/r 49/32/r 52/40/r 56/49/r 54/39/r 50/34/r 56/41/r 48/34/r 47/34/r 53/38/r 50/36/r 48/35/r

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 40/35/r 66/51/t 47/31/r 46/37/r 49/44/r 42/30/r 47/31/r 46/30/r 49/48/r 62/50/t 46/37/r 40/39/r 47/33/r

Fri. Hi/Lo/W 48/34/r 61/41/pc 50/34/r 50/35/r 53/39/r 46/33/r 53/39/r 51/35/r 52/44/r 58/41/pc 52/37/pc 55/38/r 53/42/r

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

Today Hi/Lo/W 47/33/r 50/45/r 47/41/r 38/38/r 48/46/r 44/35/r 46/32/r 41/36/r 50/45/r 48/31/r 49/46/r 48/45/r 42/30/c

Fri. Hi/Lo/W 53/35/r 54/39/r 53/39/r 48/35/r 52/40/r 46/44/r 49/33/r 48/33/r 54/39/r 53/38/r 52/42/r 55/40/r 48/35/r

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

BRISTOW MARCHANT / THE SUMTER ITEM

City Manager Deron McCormick explains plans for the site of the former Maxway and Citi Trends stores on Main Street, which officials plan to turn into a park called “Sumter Green” until plans to put a downtown hotel on the site come to fruition.

The last word in astrology

ARIES (March 21-April 19): A professional or EUGENIA LAST financial opportunity is apparent. Use reason and common sense and you will discover a way to put your skills and talent to good use.

Don’t initiate change; let it come to you.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Keep a low profile and surmise what’s required of you by what others do.

Compromise will be needed for you to get ahead. Don’t allow emotions to interfere. Being stubborn won’t bring the results you want.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Energy, enthusiasm and honoring promises will lead to positive change. An interview, job application or resume update will lead to a better position.

Someone you’ve worked with in the past will offer valuable information.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Expand your interests and delve into hobbies or life changes that are unusual and new to you. Social activity geared toward self-improvement, romance or travel will enhance your current relationship.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You’ll be ready to incorporate change into your daily routine. With a little effort, you can improve your environment at home.

Partnerships will be worth nurturing and will ensure you have an ally when needed.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Use past experiences to define what you want to see happen. Once you give a riveting account of what to expect, you’ll enlist the help of key people

who will improve your chance to achieve success.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Time spent on self-improvements will pay off.

Love, romance and making positive changes within an important relationship or to your current lifestyle will bring you satisfaction.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Take measures regarding a personal situation that are unexpected, unique and will help protect you from someone likely to retaliate. Look for places to visit that will give you the freedom to live life your way.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Keep the pace until you reach your destination. Make the changes at home that fit your needs and help you find the comfort and entertainment that is conducive to your health and wellness.

LOTTERY NUMBERS PALMETTO CASH 5 WEDNESDAY

MEGAMILLIONS TUESDAY

7-11-20-25-36 PowerUp: 2

10-29-31-35-45 Megaball: 10 Megaplier: 2

PICK 3 WEDNESDAY

PICK 4 WEDNESDAY

5-0-9 and 8-4-6

5-4-5-0 and 1-0-2-9

Powerball numbers were unavailable at press time.

PICTURES FROM THE PUBLIC

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Reevaluate your position and how you get along with the people you encounter. Question your progress and consider how to move forward or reach success faster.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Put more into your personal finances or invest in something you feel will help you earn more money. What you do to improve your life will also raise your confidence and standard of living.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Sharing personal information is likely to cause a problem. Focus on finding out what you can about others and using the information to give you an edge. You can get ahead if you network with influential individuals.

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Call (803) 774-1200 and get started today.

Nikki Ivey comments on her photo submission of her daughters, Kerrigan and Lillie, “This is how we spent our snow day in Wedgefield. All smiles!”

SECTION

Lady Tigers top Virginia Tech in ACC tourney

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THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

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

PREP BASKETBALL

4 area players named all-state

CHS’ last line of defense Miller-McCray’s blocks, rebounds have helped shut down opposing teams en route to 3A title game

BY MICHAEL CHRISTOPHER mchristopher@theitem.com

BY DENNIS BRUNSON dennisb@theitem.com COLUMBIA — The Crestwood High School girls basketball team likes to throw a lot of different defensive looks at its opposition to try and keep it off balance and not let it get comfortable with what it’s doing offensively.

No matter how much Lady Knights head coach Tony Wilson switches and mixes his defenses throughCHAMPIONSHIP out a game, SATURDAY there is one constant: ShaquanWHO: Crestwood da Miller-Mcvs. Dreher Cray on the back WHEN: 5:30 p.m. end.

WHERE: Colonial Life The 6-foot-3Arena, Columbia inch sophomore is literally the TICKETS: $10 last line of dePARKING: $5 fense for Crestwood, and a very imposing one at that. She is a big reason the Lady Knights are 25-3 on the season and facing Dreher for the 3A state title on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia.

“It’s nice to have her back there,” said guard Cawasha Ceasar, a sophomore like Miller-McCray. “If I don’t end up getting (a steal or a rebound), Shaquanda will be back there to step up.”

Although she is just in double figures in one category, Miller-McCray is very close to averaging a triple-double. She is averaging 12 rebounds, nine blocked shots and 9.8 points a contest.

“I’m just trying to do what I can to help our team win,” Miller-McCray said. “This has been a team effort for

SEE DEFENSE, PAGE B4

MATT WALSH / THE SUMTER ITEM

Crestwood’s Shaquanda Miller-McCray, right, has been a defensive force for the Lady Knights this season, averaging 12 rebounds and nine blocked shots a game while helping CHS earn its first berth in the 3A state title game on Saturday in Columbia.

Four local high school basketball players — Sumter High School senior Erick White, Crestwood senior Keanua Williams, Lakewood senior Sonora Dengokl and Scott’s Branch senior Traviant Riley — were seWHITE lected to the South Carolina Basketball Coaches Association all-state teams in their respective classifications.

White was named to the 4A boys WILLIAMS team, while Williams and Dengokl were named to the 3A girls team. Riley is on the 1A boys all-state team.

Williams is averaging 14.3 points, DENGOKL seven rebounds, five assists and three steals per game for the Lady Knights, who are playing Dreher for the state title on Saturday at 5:30 RILEY p.m. at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia. Crestwood is 25-3 on the season and won its third straight Region VI title with a 10-0 record and has won 23 straight league games. Williams was selected Region VI Player of the Year.

Dengkol led Lakewood to a second-place finish behind

SEE ALL-STATE, PAGE B4

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Clemson opens spring with QB battle

BY PETE IACOBELLI The Associated Press CLEMSON — For the first time in five years, Clemson has questions at quarterback.

The Tigers started what figures to be a three-way battle to succeed record-setting passer Tajh Boyd with the start of spring practice Wednesday.

“I can’t wait to see how it plays out,’’ Boyd said.

Neither can Clemson fans, who’ve grown comfortable with the durable Boyd under center the past three seasons. He threw for nearly 12,000 yards and an Atlantic Coast Conference record 107 BOYD touchdowns during his time at Clemson.

But Boyd’s time is done — he’ll audition for NFL personnel on campus Thursday at Clemson’s pro day _ and coach Dabo Swinney is looking for a replacement among longtime backup Cole Stoudt, redshirt freshman Chad Kelly and prospect Deshaun Watson, who enrolled early to take part in spring drills.

Swinney said this week that Stoudt, who’ll be a senior next fall, will get first crack simply because “somebody has to go out there first.’’

But Swinney says he and the coaches will be swayed by whoever plays the best.

“At the end of the day, it’s about scoring touchdowns and who can get that done,’’ Tigers offensive coordinator Chad Morris said.

Stoudt, the son of former NFL quarterback Cliff Stoudt, has had the most experience, mostly mopping up after Boyd led the Tigers to a big lead and the outcome was no longer in doubt.

Still, he’s completed more than 72

10-second rule withdrawn by NCAA committee

BY RALPH D. RUSSO The Associated Press

weren’t there, we were coaching each other to get better.’’

Chad Kelly also has an NFL quarterback pedigree — he’s the nephew of ex-Buffalo Bills great Jim Kelly — and a confidence that’s evident each time he takes the field, speaks into a camera or uses social media.

NEW YORK — Round one of the pace-of-play debate goes to the proponents of fast football.

The NCAA football rules committee tabled a proposal Wednesday that would have penalized offenses for snapping the ball before 10 seconds had run off the 40-second play clock.

After a conference call, the committee decided not to send the so-called 10-second rule to the playing rules oversight REDDING panel for approval today.

“What the committee agreed to do was table that proposal to allow time to gather more information from the medical community and allow time for a broader discussion for the implications of that change,’’ NCAA national coordinator of officials Rogers Redding told the AP. Redding said the NCAA received 324 comments during the feedback period after the proposal passed and 75 percent opposed the change; 16 percent supported the proposal. The rest were uncertain.

Redding also said a new proposal was passed by the committee to expand roughing the passer to include “forcible’’ hits to the knees or below.

The 10-second proposal, touted as a move to protect players by slowing down the fast-break offenses so prevalent now in college football, infuriated many coaches. Auburn’s Gus

SEE CLEMSON, PAGE B4

SEE RULE, PAGE B4

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Clemson’s Cole Stoudt, right, leads a quarterback drill on Wednesday during the first day of spring football practice in Clemson. This is the first time in the last five years that the Tigers have questions surrounding the QB position. percent of his passes and had just one interception in 119 career pass attempts the past three seasons. He’s spent the most time behind Boyd drilling in Morris’ high-tempo system and has shown ability to move the Tigers.

“We were all competing together and making each other better,’’ Stoudt said. “When the coaches

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BASKETBALL

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

THE SUMTER ITEM

WOMEN’S ACC TOURNAMENT

WOMEN’S TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Clemson’s Chancie Dunn, foreground, and teammate Nyilah Jamison-Myers react to a basket in the final seconds of the Lady Tigers’ 69-56 win over Virginia Tech on Wednesday in the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament in Greensboro, N.C.

Clemson rolls past Va. Tech 69-56 GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP) — Nikki Dixon scored 22 points and grabbed a career-high 12 rebounds as thirteenth-seeded Clemson beat No. 12 seed Virginia Tech 69-56 Wednesday in the first game of the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament.

It was Clemson’s first conference tournament win since 2009 and it avenged a 74-48 defeat to Virginia Tech last Thursday.

Nyliah Jamison-Myers scored a career-best 19 points for Clemson (13-18). It was Dixon’s ninth 20-plus point game of

the season and she recorded a double-double in the first half alone. Dixon hit 12 of 15 free throws and the Tigers made 21 of 28 as a team.

Senior Uju Ugoka had 20 points and 10 rebounds for Virginia Tech (14-16). It was her 16th double-double of the year.

Virginia Tech got within 55-46 with 6:46 left, but Dixon scored four consecutive points to put the Tigers up by double-digits for good.

Clemson plays No. 5 Syracuse today.

MEN’S BIG SOUTH TOURNAMENT

Harper leads Bucs past Campbell CONWAY — Arlon Harper scored 20 points and Will Saunders added 18 as Charleston Southern, the No. 5 seed out of the North Division, beat Campbell, seeded fourth from the South Division, 81-71 in the opening round of the Big South Conference tournament Wednesday night.

Charleston Southern (13-17) trailed by as many as 15 points in the first half and went into the break down 42-33.

The Buccaneers hit 3-pointers on three consecutive possessions during a 13-5 spurt early in the second half to make it 53-50 with 13 minutes left.

A 13-3 run a few minutes later gave CSU its first lead, 68-64, since the game’s opening minutes, when it led 2-1.

Charleston Southern dominated the glass, outrebounding Campbell 41-26 overall and 13-4 on the offensive glass.

Reco McCarter paced the Fighting Camels (12-20) with 19 points.

The Buccaneers will take on Coastal Carolina in the quarterfinals on Friday.

RADFORD 78 PRESBYTERIAN 73

CONWAY — Ya Ya Anderson scored 18 points as third-seeded Radford hung on to beat No. 6 seed Presbyterian 78-73 in the first round of the Big South Conference tournament Wednesday.

BIG SOUTH TOURNAMENT At The HTC Center Conway First Round Wednesday Winthrop 77, Liberty 65 Radford 78, Presbyterian 73 Charleston Southern 81, Campbell 71 Gardner-Webb vs. Longwood (late) Quarterfinals Friday High Point vs. Winthrop, Noon UNC Asheville vs. Radford, 2:30 p.m.

Coastal Carolina vs. Charleston Southern, 6 p.m.

VMI vs. Gardner-Webb-Longwood winner, 8:30 p.m.

Semifinals Saturday High Point-Winthrop winner vs. UNC Asheville-Radford winner, Noon Coastal Carolina-Charleston Southern winner vs. VMI_Gardner-Webb-Longwood winner, 2:30 p.m.

Championship Sunday Semifinal winners, Noon

Radford was up 70-59 with 4:49 left, but Presbyterian stormed back to trail by just one with 27 seconds left. Radford’s Rashun Davis made two free throws with 20 seconds remaining and Presbyterian’s Jordan Downing missed a long 3-pointer that would have tied it. Javonte Green sealed it with two free throws.

Green finished with 16 points for Radford (21-11) and R.J. Price added 15.

Downing scored 32 for Presbyterian (6-26) and Reggie Dillard had 13.

After surrendering a 19-4 run, Presbyterian got within single-digits until

Davis’ 3-pointer, Radford’s seventh of the game, ended an 8-3 PC run and gave the Highlanders a 65-54 lead with 7:12 left.

Radford will play No. 2 seed UNC Asheville in the quarterfinals on Friday.

WINTHROP 77 LIBERTY 65

CONWAY— Keon Johnson scored 15 points as fourth-seeded Winthrop beat defending tournament champion Liberty 77-65 to open the Big South Conference tournament on Wednesday.

Keon Moore, Andre Smith and Joab Jerome had 14 apiece for Winthrop (18-12). The Eagles made all 21 of their free throws and hit 8 of 22 from 3-point range. Jerome made all nine of his free throws, Johnson made three 3-pointers and Moore had eight rebounds.

Andrew Smith led No. 5 seed Liberty (11-21) with 17 points and Joe Retic added 15. The Flames were up by as many as 12 in the first half.

The game was knotted at 51 with 7:52 left. Then Johnson hit back-toback 3-pointers to start a 10-2 run to pull away. Moore’s free throws at the 1:33 mark gave Winthrop its first double-digit lead of the game.

Winthrop moves on to play top-seeded High Point in the quarterfinals on Friday.

Atlantic Coast Conference At Greensboro Coliseum Greensboro, N.C. First Round Wednesday Clemson 69, Virginia Tech 56 Virginia 74, Boston College 59 Wake Forest 72, Pittsburgh 58 Second Round Today Syracuse vs. Clemson, 11 a.m.

Miami vs. Florida State, 2 p.m.

Georgia Tech vs. Virginia, 6 p.m.

North Carolina vs. Wake Forest, 8:30 p.m.

Quarterfinals Friday N.C. State vs. Syracuse-Virginia Tech-Clemson winner, 11 a.m.

Notre Dame vs. Miami-Florida State winner, 2 p.m.

Duke vs. Georgia Tech-Virginia-Boston College winner, 6 p.m.

Maryland vs. North Carolina-Wake ForestPittsburgh winner, 8:30 p.m.

Semifinals Saturday N.C. State-Syracuse-Virginia Tech-Clemson winner vs. Notre Dame-Miami-Florida State winner, 5 p.m.

Duke-Georgia Tech-Virginia-Boston College winner vs. Maryland-North CarolinaWake Forest-Pittsburgh winner, 7:30 p.m.

Championship Sunday Semifinal winners, 7 p.m.

Big South Conference At The HTC Center Conway First Round Tuesday UNC Asheville 43, Radford 42 Presbyterian 54, Longwood 40 Coastal Carolina 106, Charleston Southern 71 Quarterfinals Today High Point vs. UNC Asheville, Noon Campbell vs. Gardner-Webb, 2:30 p.m.

Liberty vs. Presbyterian, 6 p.m.

Winthrop vs. Coastal Carolina-Charleston Southern winner, 8:30 p.m.

Semifinals Saturday High Point-UNC Asheville winner vs. Campbell-Gardner-Webb winner, 6 p.m.

Liberty-Presbyterian winner vs. Winthrop_ Coastal Carolina-Charleston Southern winner, 8:30 p.m.

Championship Sunday Semifinal winners, 5 p.m.

Southeastern Conference At The Arena at Gwinnett Center Duluth, Ga. First Round Wednesday Mississippi State 73, Missouri 71 Arkansas vs. Mississippi (late) Second Round Today Vanderbilt vs. Georgia, Noon Florida vs. Mississippi State, 2:30 p.m.

Alabama vs. LSU, 6 p.m.

Auburn vs. Arkansas-Mississippi winner, 8:30 p.m.

Quarterfinals Friday South Carolina vs. Vanderbilt-Georgia winner, Noon Kentucky vs. Florida-Missouri-Mississippi State winner, 2:30 p.m.

Tennessee vs. Alabama-LSU winner, 6 p.m.

Texas A&M vs. Auburn-Arkansas-Mississippi winner, 8:30 p.m.

Semifinals Saturday South Carolina-Vanderbilt-Georgia winner vs. Kentucky-Florida-Missouri-Mississippi State winner, Noon Tennessee-Alabama-LSU winner vs. Texas A&M-Auburn-Arkansas-Mississippi winner, 2:30 p.m.

Championship Sunday Semifinal winners, 3:30 p.m.

Southern Conference At Kimmel Arena Asheville, N.C. First Round Friday Georgia Southern vs. Wofford, 11 a.m.

Western Carolina vs. UNC Greensboro, 1:15 p.m.

Quarterfinals Saturday Chattanooga vs. Georgia Southern-Wofford winner, Noon Appalachian State vs. Elon, 2:30 p.m.

Furman vs. Western Carolina-UNC Greensboro winner, 5 p.m.

Davidson vs. Samford, 7:30 p.m.

At U.S. Cellular Arena Asheville, N.C. Semifinals Sunday Chattanooga-Georgia Southern-Wofford winner vs. Appalachian State-Elon winner, Noon Furman-Western Carolina-UNC Greensboro winner vs. Davidson-Samford winner, 2:30 p.m.

Championship Monday Semifinal winners, 5 p.m.

TV SCHEDULE

TODAY ACC Second Round 11 a.m. – Syracuse vs. Clemson (FOX SPORTSOUTH).

2 p.m. – Miami vs. Florida State (FOX SPORTSOUTH).

6 p.m. – Georgia Tech vs. Virginia or Boston College (FOX SPORTSOUTH).

8 p.m. – North Carolina vs. Wake Forest or Pittsburgh (FOX SPORTSOUTH).

SEC Second Round Noon – Vanderbilt vs. Georgia (SPORTSOUTH).

2:30 p.m. – Florida vs. Missouri or Mississippi State (SPORTSOUTH).

6 p.m. – Alabama vs. Louisiana State (SPORTSOUTH).

8:30 p.m. – Auburn vs. Arkansas or Mississippi (SPORTSOUTH).

MEN’S TOP 25 ROUNDUP

NBA ROUNDUP

Wake pulls away to upset Duke 82-72

Jefferson’s 34 points power Bobcats past Pacers 109-87

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Tyler Cavanaugh scored a careerhigh 20 points and Wake Forest pulled away to upset No. 4 Duke 82-72 on Wednesday night.

Travis McKie added 19 points in his final scheduled home game for the Demon Deacons (16-14, 6-11 Atlantic Coast Conference).

Codi Miller-McIntyre had 13 points to help Wake Forest claim its first win over Duke since 2009 and its biggest win since an upset of No. 2 Miami last February.

Jabari Parker scored 19 points and Rodney Hood added 16

for the Blue Devils (237, 12-5).

(11) LOUISVILLE 84 (18) SMU 71 DALLAS — Russ Smith scored 22 of his 26 points after halftime, including six 3-pointers, and No. 11 Louisville became the first opponent to win in SMU’s renovated home, beating the 18th-ranked Mustangs 84-71.

(19) CONNECTICUT 69 RUTGERS 63

STORRS, Conn. — Shabazz Napier scored 26 points in his final home game, leading 19th-ranked UConn to a 69-63 win over Rutgers.

From wire reports

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Wake Forest’s Andre Washington (31) drives past Duke’s Rodney Hood (5) during the Demon Deacons’ 82-72 victory on Wednesday in Winston-Salem, N.C.

CHARLOTTE — Al Jefferson scored 34 points in Charlotte’s 109-87 victory over the Indiana Pacers 109-87 Wednesday night that gave the Bobcats their fifth straight home win.

Jefferson was 16 of 25 from the field and had eight rebounds for the Bobcats (28-33), who equaled their combined win total from the previous two seasons.

Jefferson, whose 38point, 19-rebound effort Monday night was overshadowed by LeBron James’ career-high 61point outing, has scored at least 20 points in 21 of his last 24 games.

Charlotte became the first team since the 200910 Knicks to play the NBA’s top four teams in consecutive games. They

previously lost to San Antonio, Oklahoma City and Miami on the road.

Evan Turner had 22 points for the Pacers (4615).

ROCKETS 101 MAGIC 89

ORLANDO, Fla. — James Harden scored 31 points, including 25 in the second half, and the Houston Rockets dug out of a double-digit, first-half hole to beat Orlando 101-89.

WIZARDS 104 JAZZ 91

WASHINGTON — Trevor Ariza scored 26 points, Bradley Beal added 22, and the Washington Wizards shot 54 percent in a 104-91 win over Utah.

From wire reports

SPORTS

THE SUMTER ITEM

SCOREBOARD TV, RADIO TODAY

7 a.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: Miami vs. New York Mets from Port St. Lucie, Fla. (MLB NETWORK).

10 a.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: Houston vs. Detroit from Kissimmee, Fla. (MLB NETWORK).

1 p.m. – PGA Golf: WGC-Cadillac Championship First Round from Doral, Fla. (GOLF).

1 p.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: New York Yankees vs. Philadelphia from Clearwater, Fla. (MLB NETWORK).

5 p.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: San Diego vs. Texas from Peoria, Ariz. (MLB NETWORK).

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

6:30 p.m. – PGA Golf: Puerto Rico Open First Round from Rio Grande, Puerto Rico (GOLF).

7 p.m. – College Basketball: Charlotte at Marshall (CBS SPORTS NETWORK).

7 p.m. – College Basketball: Memphis at Cincinnati (ESPN).

7 p.m. – College Basketball: Louisiana State at Vanderbilt (ESPN2).

7 p.m. – College Basketball: Penn State at Northwestern (ESPNU).

7 p.m. – College Basketball: Villanova at Xavier (FOX SPORTS 1).

7 p.m. – High School Baseball: Mid Carolina Credit Union Baseball Bash Championship Game from Kershaw (WPUB-FM 102.7).

8 p.m. – College Basketball: George Mason at La Salle (NBC SPORTS NETWORK).

8 p.m. – NBA Basketball: Miami at San Antonio (TNT).

9 p.m. – College Basketball: Virginia Commonwealth at Richmond (CBS SPORTS NETWORK).

9 p.m. – College Basketball: Iowa at Michigan (ESPN).

9 p.m. – College Basketball: UCLA at Washington (ESPN2).

9 p.m. – College Basketball: Hawaii at California-Santa Barbara (ESPNU).

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

9 p.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: Los Angeles Dodgers vs.

Los Angeles Angels from Tempe, Ariz.

(MLB NETWORK).

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

10:30 p.m. – NBA Basketball: Los Angeles Clippers at Los Angeles Lakers (TNT).

11 p.m. – College Basketball: Southern California at Washington State (ESPNU).

1 a.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: St. Louis vs. Minnesota from Fort Myers, Fla. (MLB NETWORK).

4 a.m. – Major League Exhibition Baseball: Milwaukee vs. Colorado from Phoenix (MLB NETWORK).

MLB SPRING TRAINING

By The Associated Press AMERICAN LEAGUE Cleveland Tampa Bay Seattle Kansas City Minnesota Detroit Oakland Baltimore Houston Los Angeles New York Toronto Chicago Boston Texas

W 6 4 6 5 4 5 5 3 3 3 4 4 2 1 1

L 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 2 3 3 4 4 3 5 5

Pct .857 .800 .750 .714 .667 .625 .625 .600 .500 .500 .500 .500 .400 .167 .167

San Diego vs. Milwaukee at Phoenix, 3:05 p.m.

San Francisco vs. Kansas City at Surprise, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Chicago White Sox vs. Cincinnati (ss) at Goodyear, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Cleveland vs. Chicago Cubs (ss) at Mesa, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Texas vs. L.A. Dodgers at Glendale, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Cincinnati (ss) vs. Seattle at Peoria, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Chicago Cubs (ss) vs. L.A. Angels (ss) at Tempe, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Arizona vs. Oakland at Phoenix, 3:05 p.m.

L.A. Angels (ss) vs. Colorado at Scottsdale, Ariz., 3:10 p.m.

Detroit vs. N.Y. Yankees at Tampa, Fla., 7:05 p.m.

NBA STANDINGS

By The Associated Press EASTERN CONFERENCE ATLANTIC DIVISION W Toronto 33 Brooklyn 29 New York 21 Boston 20 Philadelphia 15 SOUTHEAST DIVISION W Miami 43 Washington 31 Charlotte 27 Atlanta 26 Orlando 19 CENTRAL DIVISION W Indiana 46 Chicago 33 Detroit 24 Cleveland 24 Milwaukee 12

L 26 29 40 40 46

Pct .559 .500 .344 .333 .246

GB – 3½ 13 13½ 19

L 15 29 33 32 43

Pct .741 .517 .450 .448 .306

GB – 13 17 17 26

L 14 27 36 38 47

Pct .767 .550 .400 .387 .203

GB – 13 22 23 33½

WESTERN CONFERENCE SOUTHWEST DIVISION W San Antonio 44 Houston 41 Dallas 36 Memphis 34 New Orleans 24 NORTHWEST DIVISION W Oklahoma City 46 Portland 41 Minnesota 30 Denver 25 Utah 21 PACIFIC DIVISION W L.A. Clippers 42 Golden State 37 Phoenix 35 Sacramento 21 L.A. Lakers 21

L 16 19 25 25 37

Pct .733 .683 .590 .576 .393

GB – 3 8½ 9½ 20½

L 15 19 29 34 39

Pct .754 .683 .508 .424 .350

GB – 4½ 15 20 24½

L 20 24 25 39 40

Pct .677 .607 .583 .350 .344

GB – 4½ 6 20 20½

TUESDAY’S GAMES

Golden State 98, Indiana 96 San Antonio 122, Cleveland 101 Houston 106, Miami 103 Oklahoma City 125, Philadelphia 92 L.A. Clippers 104, Phoenix 96 New Orleans 132, L.A. Lakers 125

WEDNESDAY’S GAMES

Houston at Orlando, 7 p.m.

Utah at Washington, 7 p.m.

Indiana at Charlotte, 7 p.m.

Memphis at Brooklyn, 7:30 p.m.

Golden State at Boston, 7:30 p.m.

Chicago at Detroit, 7:30 p.m.

Dallas at Denver, 8 p.m.

New York at Minnesota, 8 p.m.

Sacramento at Milwaukee, 8 p.m.

Atlanta at Portland, 10:30 p.m.

TODAY’S GAMES

Miami at San Antonio, 8 p.m.

Oklahoma City at Phoenix, 9 p.m.

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

FRIDAY’S GAMES

Memphis at Chicago, 7 p.m.

Sacramento at Toronto, 7 p.m.

Cleveland at Charlotte, 7 p.m.

Brooklyn at Boston, 7:30 p.m.

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

Detroit at Minnesota, 8 p.m.

Milwaukee at New Orleans, 8 p.m.

Portland at Dallas, 8:30 p.m.

L.A. Lakers at Denver, 9 p.m.

Indiana at Houston, 9:30 p.m.

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

NATIONAL LEAGUE

W L Pct Pittsburgh 6 1 .857 Miami 5 2 .714 Washington 4 2 .667 San Francisco 4 3 .571 Arizona 5 5 .500 Milwaukee 4 4 .500 Cincinnati 3 4 .429 St. Louis 2 3 .400 Colorado 3 5 .375 Chicago 2 4 .333 Los Angeles 2 4 .333 New York 2 5 .286 San Diego 2 5 .286 Atlanta 1 6 .143 Philadelphia 1 6 .143 NOTE: Split-squad games count in the standings; games against non-major league teams do not.

TUESDAY’S GAMES

Miami 3, Minnesota 1 Tampa Bay 8, Boston 0 Atlanta 8, Washington 4 Pittsburgh 5, Detroit 2 N.Y. Mets 6, Houston 2 Kansas City 9, Cincinnati 5 Arizona 8, San Diego 6 L.A. Angels 7, Texas 4 Oakland (ss) 6, Milwaukee 4 Cleveland 5, Chicago White Sox 4 Chicago Cubs 6, Oakland (ss) 4 Seattle 4, L.A. Dodgers 1 San Francisco 3, Colorado 2 Toronto 5, Philadelphia 3 Baltimore 3, N.Y. Yankees 2

WEDNESDAY’S GAMES

Philadelphia 2, Atlanta 2, tie Washington 11, N.Y. Mets (ss) 5 Tampa Bay 5, N.Y. Yankees 4 St. Louis 8, Boston 6 Detroit 3, Houston 0 Pittsburgh 6, Toronto 4 Miami 5, N.Y. Mets (ss) 2, 10 innings Cleveland 8, Seattle 5 San Diego 8, Chicago White Sox 0 San Francisco 3, L.A. Angels 2 Colorado (ss) 8, Texas 2 Colorado (ss) 7, Chicago Cubs 5 Milwaukee 7, Oakland 2 Kansas City 6, Arizona 5 Baltimore vs. Minnesota (late) L.A. Dodgers vs. Cincinnati (late)

TODAY’S GAMES

St. Louis vs. Minnesota at Fort Myers, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Philadelphia (ss) vs. Detroit at Lakeland, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

N.Y. Mets vs. Houston at Kissimmee, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

N.Y. Yankees vs. Philadelphia (ss) at Clearwater, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Boston vs. Miami at Jupiter, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Tampa Bay vs. Baltimore at Sarasota, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Toronto vs. Pittsburgh at Bradenton, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Cincinnati vs. San Francisco at Scottsdale, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Chicago Cubs vs. Cleveland at Goodyear, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Seattle vs. Chicago White Sox (ss) at Glendale, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Colorado vs. Milwaukee at Phoenix, 3:05 p.m.

Chicago White Sox (ss) vs. Kansas City at Surprise, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

L.A. Dodgers vs. L.A. Angels at Tempe, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Texas vs. San Diego at Peoria, Ariz., 3:05 p.m.

Oakland vs. Arizona at Scottsdale, Ariz., 3:10 p.m.

Washington vs. Atlanta at Kissimmee, Fla., 6:05 p.m.

NHL STANDINGS

By The Associated Press EASTERN CONFERENCE ATLANTIC DIVISION GP W Boston 61 39 Montreal 63 34 Tampa Bay 62 34 Toronto 63 32 Detroit 61 28 Ottawa 62 27 Florida 62 23 Buffalo 61 18 METROPOLITAN DIVISION GP W Pittsburgh 61 41 Philadelphia 62 32 N.Y. Rangers 62 33 Columbus 62 32 Washington 62 29 New Jersey 63 27 Carolina 62 27 N.Y. Islanders 64 24

L OT 17 5 22 7 23 5 23 8 21 12 24 11 32 7 35 8

Pts GF 83 192 75 160 73 179 72 186 68 162 65 176 53 152 44 124

GA 138 154 160 193 169 202 201 183

L OT 16 4 24 6 26 3 25 5 23 10 23 13 26 9 32 8

Pts GF 86 195 70 174 69 162 69 184 68 184 67 152 63 154 56 176

GA 150 180 157 172 186 156 175 217

WESTERN CONFERENCE CENTRAL DIVISION GP W L OT Pts GF GA St. Louis 61 41 14 6 88 204 141 Chicago 63 36 13 14 86 215 170 Colorado 62 40 17 5 85 192 166 Minnesota 62 34 21 7 75 153 150 Dallas 62 29 23 10 68 175 175 Winnipeg 63 30 26 7 67 176 181 Nashville 62 26 26 10 62 151 188 PACIFIC DIVISION GP W L OT Pts GF GA Anaheim 62 43 14 5 91 202 150 San Jose 63 39 17 7 85 190 154 Los Angeles 63 35 22 6 76 152 134 Phoenix 62 28 23 11 67 170 180 Vancouver 64 28 26 10 66 150 167 Calgary 61 23 31 7 53 141 185 Edmonton 63 21 34 8 50 157 206 NOTE: Two points for a win, one point for overtime loss.

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

Knights baseball falls 3-1 to NCHS KERSHAW — Crestwood High School’s varsity baseball team fell 3-1 to North Central High School on Wednesday in the consolation game of the Mid Carolina Credit Union baseball bash preseason tournament at North Central High School.

The game was called after five innings due to a time limit.

Crestwood junior pitcher Christian Buford allowed one earned run on one hit and struck out four. Senior Ryan Miller led the offense going 2-for-3. Buford scored the lone Knights run on a suicide squeeze bunt by Tyler Harrington.

In their opening game Crestwood lost 7-3 to NCHS on Tuesday. That game was also called due to a time limit.

CHS junior Cole Benenhaley allowed four earned runs in four innings with five strikeouts. He was also 1-for-1 with a run scored and a walk. Buford led the offense with two hits including a double and two RBI. Miller had two runs scored

and a walk.

CHS begins the regular season on Wednesday at Hartsville at 6:30 p.m.

JV BASEBALL SUMTER 6 CAMDEN 0 CAMDEN — Sumter High School defeated Camden 6-0 on Tuesday at the Camden field.

Hampton Rowe was 2-for3 with two runs batted in for SHS. Lenny Gonzalez had a hit and two RBI and Rylan Williamson had a hit and an RBI. Drew Hankins pitched 4 1/3 innings to get the victory. He struck out four while allowing two hits and two walks.

VARSITY SOCCER LAURENCE MANNING 6 THOMAS SUMTER 0 DALZELL — Laurence Manning Academy’s varsity soccer team defeated Thomas Sumter Academy 6-0 on Thursday at General Field.

Will Wannamaker had

JV SOCCER WILSON HALL 8 THOMAS SUMTER 0 Wilson Hall’s junior varsity soccer team opened the season with an 8-0 victory over Thomas Sumter Academy on Wednesday at Patriot Park.

The Barons were led by Haley Roone McCaffrey’s two goals and two assists.

Andrew McCaffrey had two goals and an assist. Graeson Smith and Mills Herlong each contributed a goal and an assist. James Munford and Joshua Easler each scored a goal.

WH’s next game is 5 p.m.

March 11 at Patriot Park versus Palmetto Athletic.

Gamecocks rally for 4-2 win over Stetson COLUMBIA — Weber Pike’s 2-out tworun single in the bottom of the seventh inning capped a 4-run frame as top-ranked South Carolina rallied for a 4-2 victory over Stetson on Wednesday afternoon at Carolina Stadium.

The Gamecocks improved to 12-0 on the year while Stetson drops to 2-11.

Trailing 2-0, the Gamecocks mounted a comeback as Tanner English led off with a single followed by a walk by Marcus PIKE Mooney. Joey Pankake drove in South Carolina’s first run with a 1-out single to score English. With two outs and runners on second and third, the Gamecocks tied it as Connor Bright reached on an infield single that scored pinch runner Gene Cone. After Bright stole second base, Pike would lift a 0-2 pitch into center for a single scoring a pair of runners and giving Carolina a 2-run lead.

Cody Mincey retired all three batters he faced in the eighth inning and Joel Seddon closed out the game with a perfect ninth inning for his fourth save. Senior right-hander Hunter Privette (1-0) earned a win with one scoreless inning of relief. Stetson reliever Tyler Warmoth (0-2) suffered the loss.

He allowed two runs on three hits in 2/3 of an inning.

South Carolina’s 10-hit afternoon saw 2-hit games from English, Logan Koch and Mooney.

Stetson starter Austin Perez was effective for most of the game as he worked six scoreless innings before tiring in the seventh. He allowed two runs on seven hits in 6 1/3 innings with three walks. South Carolina received a quality relief outing from Vince Fiori, who pitched 3 2/3 scoreless innings with five hits allowed and three strikeouts.

The Gamecocks return to action this weekend hosting a 3-game series against Brown. First pitch for the opener on Friday

WEDNESDAY’S GAMES

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

Washington at Philadelphia, 8 p.m.

Ottawa at Calgary, 9:30 p.m.

Montreal at Anaheim, 10 p.m.

Your community news source www.theitem.com

FRIDAY’S GAMES

N.Y. Rangers at Carolina, 7 p.m.

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

Buffalo at Florida, 7:30 p.m.

N.Y. Islanders at Calgary, 9 p.m.

Pittsburgh at Anaheim, 10 p.m.

FRIDAY’S GAMES

Tampa Bay vs. Toronto at Dunedin, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Atlanta vs. Boston at Fort Myers, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Philadelphia vs. Baltimore at Sarasota, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Miami vs. St. Louis (ss) at Jupiter, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Minnesota vs. Pittsburgh at Bradenton, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

Houston vs. Washington at Viera, Fla., 1:05 p.m.

St. Louis (ss) vs. N.Y. Mets at Port St. Lucie, Fla., 1:10 p.m.

three goals to lead LMA. Austin Stout had two goals and two assists and Olin Robinson had a goal and an assist.

Andrew Compton had seven saves in goal and had help from defensive backs Tyler Barrett, Mitch Bochette, John Nguyen and Stephen Prebish in getting the shutout.

SPORTS ITEMS

Boston 4, Florida 1 New Jersey 4, Detroit 3 Columbus 4, Dallas 2 Colorado 4, Chicago 2 St. Louis 4, Tampa Bay 2 Pittsburgh 3, Nashville 1 N.Y. Islanders 3, Winnipeg 2, OT Phoenix 1, Vancouver 0 Edmonton 3, Ottawa 2 Carolina 3, San Jose 2, OT

Washington at Boston, 7 p.m.

Los Angeles at Winnipeg, 7 p.m.

Buffalo at Tampa Bay, 7:30 p.m.

Colorado at Detroit, 8 p.m.

Columbus at Chicago, 8 p.m.

St. Louis at Nashville, 8 p.m.

Vancouver at Dallas, 8:30 p.m.

Montreal at Phoenix, 9 p.m.

N.Y. Islanders at Edmonton, 9:30 p.m.

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

B3

AREA ROUNDUP

TUESDAY’S GAMES

TODAY’S GAMES

|

Hours:

Monday - Friday 9:00am-7:00pm Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm Sunday Closed

is 7 p.m. with Saturday’s game scheduled for 4 p.m. and Sunday’s series finale at 12:30 p.m.

STEELERS SIGN POLAMALU, MILLER TO EXTENSIONS

PITTSBURGH — Troy Polamalu and Heath Miller have agreed to new three-year contracts with the Pittsburgh Steelers that will keep them with the team through 2016.

Terms of the deals were not disclosed, but both figure to give Pittsburgh salary cap relief before free agency begins next week.

The Steelers also agreed to terms with safety Will Allen.

Polamalu was scheduled to make $8.25 million in 2014 in the final season of a fouryear contract he signed in 2011. The 8-time Pro Bowl safety is coming off a bounce back year in which he played in all 16 games after being limited by injuries in 2012.

Miller caught 58 passes for 593 yards and a touchdown in 2013 after sustaining a major right knee injury at the end of the 2012 season.

NHL TEAMS MAKE A FLURRY OF DEALS AT DEADLINE

Tampa Bay Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman says he had multiple conversations with Martin St. Louis about his desire to play for another team.

Tampa Bay dealt its unhappy captain to the New York Rangers for their rugged captain, Ryan Callahan, just hours before the deadline.

Montreal made what seems to be a shrewd move. The Canadiens acquired high-scoring forward Thomas Vanek from the New York Islanders for a prospect, second-round pick and conditional fifth-round selection.

Detroit picked up center David Legwand from the Nashville Predators and plans to plug him into its top line Thursday night at home against Colorado.

From staff, wire reports

B4

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OBITUARIES | SPORTS

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

JULIA D. SINGLETON Julia Davis Singleton, 90, widow of James Singleton Sr., departed this life on Saturday, March 1, 2014, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born Oct. 16, 1923, in Sumter County, she was a daughter of the late Thomas and Hattie McFadden Davis.

“Kootney,” as she was affectionately called by family and friends, was educated in the public schools of Sumter County. She joined St. Paul AME Church at a very early age.

Mrs. Singleton leaves to cherish her precious memories: nine daughters, Rose China of Newark, N.J., Edith (Eddie) Addison, Essie (Edward) McGee, Thelma (James) Isaac, Gloria (Johnny) China, Bernice (Jacob) Jones, Deborah (Alvern) Webb, Sandra (Alfred) Humes and Linda (Kenneth) Williams, all of Sumter; 28 grandchildren; 55 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by a son, James Singleton Jr.; a daughter, Julia Vaughn; and

all of her siblings, Sally Maple, Ben Davis, Thomas Davis, Johnny Davis, Willie Davis, Mary Davis, Leah Rembert and Minnie Choice.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at St. Paul AME Church — Shaw, 1495 N. St. Paul Church Road, Sumter, with the Rev. Eric Dent, pastor, eulogist.

The family will be receiving friends and relatives at the home of James and Thelma Isaac, 94 E. Brewington Road, Sumter.

The remains will be placed in the church at noon.

The procession will leave at 12:20 p.m. from the home.

Floral bearers and pall bearers will be friends and family.

Burial will be in the St. Paul AME Church — Shaw cemetery.

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 management and staff of Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter.

CLEMSON FROM PAGE B1 Kelly got into a tiff early in his Clemson career when he said on Twitter he was out to supplant Stoudt as Boyd’s backup, something that did not happen. Kelly recovered from a severe knee injury in last April’s spring game to play last season in games when the score was really out of hand.

“Then there’s the wild card,’’ Boyd says in talking about Watson.

The freshman was one of the country’s top dual-threat high school quarterbacks who accounted for more than 17,000 yards of offense at Gainesville High in Georgia and seems a perfect fit for Clemson’s offense.

“This is a big playbook and it’s not easy for a freshman to come in and learn it,’’ Kelly said.

Stoudt looked the sharpest at practice while Kelly also was on target during the workouts.

Watson, perhaps nervous, missed on some throws in his first official college practice.

Morris said not to look too deeply at anything that happened out there.

“It was a good first day,’’ Morris said. “But that’s all it was, a first day.’’

The last time Swinney had a quarterback decision came in 2009 when Kyle Parker beat out Willy Korn for the starting job. Once Parker left two seasons later, Boyd stepped in and led Clemson to an ACC title and a 32-8 record.

Swinney doesn’t expect to have a winner after the spring game next April 12 unless one of the candidates blows the others out of the water the next month. He’s looking forward to the competition because whoever wins should be able to help Clemson build on what Boyd’s accomplished.

“It’s not a situation where we don’t have talent at that position,’’ Swinney said. “For us, who gives us the best chance to win on Saturdays right now? That’s the process we’ve got to sort out.’’

DEFENSE FROM PAGE B1 us to get to the state championship (for the first time in program history).”

Miller-McCray had a huge defensive game in Crestwood’s 33-32 victory over Orangeburg-Wilkinson in the lower state title game in Florence. She had 12 blocks, 10 of them coming in the first half and most of them coming against O-W’s 6-2 all-state performer, Vondria Ritter.

Miller-McCray also had 11 rebounds and scored eight points.

GEORGE HASIK ELGIN — George Hasik, age 71, beloved husband of Linda White Hasik, died Wednesday, March 5, 2014, at KershawHealth Medical Center in Camden.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced by Bullock Funeral Home of Sumter.

LORETTA M. HEYWARD Loretta McGee Heyward, 51, wife of Bernard Heyward, entered eternal rest on Sunday, March 2, 2014, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born Oct. 17, 1962, in Sumter County, she was a daughter of the late Samuel and Thelma June McGee. She attended the public schools of Sumter County and was a 1981 graduate of Hillcrest High School, Dalzell. She was a member of Orange Hill AME Church in Wedgefield, where she was the adviser of

ALL-STATE FROM PAGE B1 Crestwood, going 7-3 under firstyear head coach Frances Fields.

Dengkol averaged 16.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 2.6 steals and 0.6 blocks per game to lead Lakewood to a 15-8 overall record in which it reached the second round of the state playoffs.

White had a well-balanced season for the Gamecocks. He averaged 9.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 4.7 steals while shooting 45 percent from the field and winning Region VI Player of the Year honors. He helped lead SHS to the 4A lower state title game for the second straight year where it lost to Wando 54-41 after defeating 2013 lower state champion Goose Creek 45-37.

Riley had a great season for Scott’s Branch even though the team had a 3-18 record. Riley averaged 18.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.7 steals and 4.2 assists while earning Region VII Player of the Year honors.

Picking up state Player of the Year honors for the boys were Gaffney senior L.J. Peake in 4A, Dreher junior Tevin Mack in 3A, Chesnee junior Deion Holmes in 2A and Denmark-Olar senior Chris Turner in 1A. West Ashley senior Dekeiya Cohen earned 4A girls player of the year honors while Dreher senior Kaydra Duckett took home the honor in 3A, Fairfield Central senior Jada Martin won in 2A and Timmonsville senior Sade Eli won for 1A.

“Shaquanda’s been doing it like that for us all year,” Wilson said. “She’s averaging about a triple-double a game. She’s one of the reasons we’re playing for the state championship. She’s done a tremendous job.”

And while the biggest impression she makes defensively is with the blocks, MillerMcCray is more than agile and athletic enough to step into passing lanes to make steals on the back end of presses and traps. That was evident in the Lady Knights’ 55-31 third-round victory over Hilton Head Island.

Crestwood was trailing 24-22 early in the third quar-

ter when it went to a 2-3 halfcourt trap. The result was 14 Lady Seahawk turnovers with the Lady Knights outscoring them 33-7 the rest of the way.

Miller-McCray played in the middle on the back of it, and HHI couldn’t throw over her, and she was able to step up and intercept several passes in front of her.

“It’s really nice that she is athletic enough to do that,” Wilson said. “It makes her hard to deal with.”

Keanua Williams, Crestwood’s all-state performer, said Miller-McCray’s presence allows her and her teammates to be more aggressive when

THE SUMTER ITEM

the youth choir.

Survivors are her devoted husband of 27 years, Bernard Heyward of the home; three sons, Darien, Darnell and Samuel, all of Wedgefield; a special niece, Nikia McGee of Wedgefield; a goddaughter, Jeyada Atkins of Sumter; two sisters, Lorraine (James) and Thelma (Harold) of Sumter; six brothers, Samuel (Edna) of California, Willie, Leon and Alonzo, all of Sumter, James (Redda) of Florence and Roosevelt of Connecticut; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Viewing will be held from 2:30 to 7 p.m. today, and funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friday at Orange Hill AME Church, Wedgefield, with the Rev. Harry Burns, pastor, the Rev. Roger Mullins, the Rev. Lenuel Washington, the Rev. Delores Harris and Evangelist Bernice Mullins.

The family is receiving relatives and friends at the home, 6530 Middleton Road, Wedgefield.

Online memorials can be sent to comfhltj@sc.rr.com.

RULE FROM PAGE B1

Community Funeral Home of Sumter is in charge of these arrangements.

DANIEL J. WADE Daniel Jerome Wade, age 30, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, March 1, 2014, at St. Francis Hospital, Greenville.

Born in Washington, D.C., he was a son of David L. Wade Sr. and Barlinda Nixon.

Survivors in addition to his parents include a brother, David L. Wade Jr. of Atlanta; a sister, Suncera Akeya Wade of the home; and a host of other close relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. today at New St. Paul Holy Commandment Church, Summerton, with Elder James L. Brunson, pastor, officiating. Final resting place will be in the church cemetery.

Online condolences may be sent to www.dysonshomeforfunerals.com.

Professional services entrusted to Dyson’s Home for Funerals, 237 Main St., Summerton, (803) 485-4280.

Malzahn, Arizona’s Rich Rodriguez and Texas Tech’s Kliff Kingsbury were among the critics who said there was no proof that up-tempo offenses increased the risk of injuries.

Rodriguez and Arizona went to so far as to make a video spoof of the movie “Speed’’ to get the point across.

“I don’t know where it goes from here, but I appreciate the rules committee realizing it was a mistake to put it out there right now,’’ Rodriguez said Wednesday in a telephone interview.

Had the rule been approved it would have gone into effect next season. The penalty for snapping the ball too fast would have been 5 yards.

Arkansas coach Bret Bielema and Alabama’s Nick Saban were not on the rules committee but did push for changes to control the everquickening pace of play. Both run slower-paced, pro-style offenses. The proposal was passed by the rules committee on Feb. 12.

What followed was three weeks of heated debate among college football fans and coaches about the evolution of football.

The proposal caught many coaches by surprise because this is non-change year for NCAA rules. But exceptions

could be made for rules related to player safety. Supporters — such as Saban — said they were concerned about the increasing number of plays in games and that fatigued defensive players could not be taken off the field when offenses were rushing to the line of scrimmage after the ball was spotted by officials.

“I didn’t offer any solutions to the problems,’’ Saban said Wednesday before the proposal was tabled. “I just not only gave my opinion, but presented a lot statistical data that would support the fact that pace of play is creating a lot longer games and a lot more plays in games.’’

“Now, I know a lot of you say there’s no statistical information that says if you play 88 plays in the game you have a better chance to get hurt if you play 65 plays in a game.

Over 12 games that 250 (additional) plays, approximately.

That’s four games more that you are playing.’’

Bielema said he feared for players with the sickle cell trait, a genetic condition that can alter red blood cells during strenuous exercise and cause muscles to break down.

The Razorbacks coach said they could be put in danger playing against by no-huddle offenses that make it impossible for defenses to substitute players.

trapping or pressing.

“Having her back there is a good thing for us,” Williams said. “To know that she is there and can block shots allows us to go after the ball more.”

Miller-McCray said she en-

joys the challenge that she faces every game.

“I really feel like I’m going to be able to block them all,” she said. “I love it when it’s 2-on-1. I know I’ve got to step up at that point. I enjoy it.”

COMICS

THE SUMTER ITEM

BIZARRO

SOUP TO NUTZ

ANDY CAPP

GARFIELD

BEETLE BAILEY

BORN LOSER

BLONDIE

ZITS

MOTHER GOOSE

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B5

DOG EAT DOUG

DILBERT

JEFF MACNELLY’S SHOE

Reading obituaries may comfort lonely heart DEAR ABBY — “Still Alive in San Diego” (Nov. 22) said she reads the obituaries every day and feels somehow Dear Abby disappointed when she ABIGAIL doesn’t see a VAN BUREN name she recognizes.

She asked if it was “weird” and you told her yes, that it seemed like a lack of empathy.

I don’t agree. What’s happening is this woman is lonely and the activity has become the hub of her day. It gives her something -- sadly -- to look forward to and a sense of closeness to her acquaintances when she recognizes their

THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2014

names.

My advice to her would be to find another way to fill the void and not obsess about the obits. Joining a club or taking up a physical activity would allow her to meet people. I’m betting she will feel less of a need to connect to the obituaries if she expands her social circle to include the living.

Been there too, in Rhode Island DEAR BEEN THERE, TOO — Your point is well-stated, and it was echoed by other readers who, like you, read between the lines of “Still Alive’s” short letter. Read on: DEAR ABBY — If the letter-writer is ill, disabled, elderly or has outlived most of her companions, it might explain her “let-

THE DAILY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

down” when no one she knows appears in the obituaries. Seeing a familiar name may bring back memories of better times and make her feel more connected to the outside world.

Julie in Wiscosin DEAR ABBY — An obituary is more than a death announcement. It tells a story. It’s often the last memory loved ones have of someone cherished, and it’s the deceased’s introduction to a sea of strangers.

Obituaries are scrapbooked and prized, and researched for generations by genealogists, historians and relatives looking to complete their family tree. A well-done obituary is the final word on how a person is remembered.

Sandy in Pennsylvania

JUMBLE

SUDOKU

THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME

By David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek

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

ACROSS 1 Elementary fellow?

7 Chief Osceola riding Renegade introduces its home games: Abbr.

10 Daddy 14 Longtime Hawaiian senator Daniel 15 Ottowan interjections 16 Woeful cry 17 *Large emigration 19 Frisks, with “down” 20 Asian holiday 21 Lettershaped fastener 22 Land at Orly?

23 Confederate 24 *Lunchbox item 26 Smallish crocodilians 28 Portal toppers 29 100-eyed giant of myth 30 Word of greeting 31 Points a finger at 32 *”I’ll Be There for You” on “Friends,” e.g.

36 __ date 38 Levy 39 Brought about 43 Southeast Asian honey lover 45 Oporto native, e.g.

47 *Children’s literature VIP 49 Brandy label letters 50 Cream of the crop 51 CNBC topics 52 Breadbasket, so to speak 53 Director Gus Van __ 54 *Daily Planet setting 57 Palm smartphone 58 Celebratory poem 59 Valuable lump 60 Bldg. annex 61 Beersheba’s land: Abbr.

62 Word that can follow five prefixes hidden sequentially in the answers to starred clues DOWN 1 “Tell __”: 1962-’63 hit 2 Winning steadily 3 Get clobbered 4 It’s not an option

5 Observe 6 Church maintenance officer 7 Disgusted 8 Back-andforth flights 9 Navy hull letters 10 Empty threat 11 Afraid 12 Platoon activities 13 Look over carefully 18 Burden 22 X, sometimes 23 __ Victor 24 Window part 25 Silver opening?

27 Remote control 30 Spell 33 Floride, par exemple 34 Many couples

35 Cub or Card 36 Simpleton 37 Like some looseleaf paper 40 Reveal 41 More to one’s liking 42 Plastic __ Band 43 Cuarenta winks?

44 Tongue suffix 45 “Click __ Ticket”: road safety slogan 46 Quantum gravity particles 48 More timely 52 Painter van __ 54 French pronoun 55 __ tent 56 CPA’s office, perhaps

B6

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

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

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

Free est. 494-9169/468-4008

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

For Sale or Trade

For Sale or Trade

Help Wanted Full-Time

Cash for Junk Cars, used Cars, junk Batteries & unwanted gift cards. Call Gene 803-934-6734

Mens' Left Hand Wilson Fat Shaft Irons. 3 Thru Wedge plus Driver & Putter $150 Call 803-840-9097

Love seat $75 OBO Oak Coffee & End tables $40 Call 481-4596

Solid Mahogany Dining Room Set, table w/ 12 chairs, (2) china cabinets, (2) buffet tables, serving with bar, (1) entertainment cabinet, (1) storage cabinet. Cost over $35,000, asking $7,000. Beautiful Oriental hand craving.

803-494-4220 or 803-565-5600

Carpenter needed.

Must have own transportation.

Most work in Manning area. To apply please call 803-473-4246 and leave message.

Bid Notices

Tree Service

Trinity UMC Garage Sale: Williams Bryce Center, Sat. Mar. 8th 8AM-12PM. Furn, hshld items, toys, tools.

BID SOLICITATION

NEWMAN'S TREE SERVICE Tree removal , trimming & stump grinding. Lic & Ins.

1351 Shoreland Dr. Saturday, March 8th, 7 am - noon.

Must see items!

Sumter School District will be receiving sealed bids on replacing Aluminum Canopies at Delaine Elementary School. You may pick up specifications at Sumter School District Maintenance Department, 1345 Wilson Hall Road, Sumter, SC. Sealed bids will be opened in the Maintenance Department, 1345 Wilson Hall Road, on Friday, March 21, 2014, at 2:00 p.m.

ANNOUNCEMENTS Lost & Found Found: around Alice Dr., Orange male tabby. Trapped by Animal Control & pulled for rescue.

Please call to describe: 803-972-7049 or 803-795-3978

803-316-0128

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

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

The Tree Doctor Any size tree removal & stump grinding. Trimming & clearing. No job too big or small. Call 775-8560 or 468-1946. We accept credit cards and offer senior discounts STATE TREE SERVICE Worker's Comp & General liability insurance. Top quality service, lowest prices. 803-494-5175 or 803-491-5154 www.statetree.net A Notch Above Tree Care Full quality service low rates, lic./ins., free est BBB accredited 983-9721

FLEA MARKET BY SHAW AFB

Open every weekend.

905-4242

Huge Garage Sale 3 families. Furn, knick-knacks, clothes, good stuff. Something for everyone. 1195 Waterway Dr. (Morris Way) Sat. 7:00 am

4485 Pond Loop Rd. Fri 10AM, Sat 9AM. Storage shed, BR set, twin bed, hshld items, & much much more.

PETS & ANIMALS

Three piece curved sofa with 2 recliners, asking $900. (2) end tables and coffee tables, $600, black desk and chair $200, (2) amoire with drawers and mirrored doors, $700, 3 piece Entertainment center $900, paddle boat $250, (2) Wall ovens, $600/both.

803-494-4220 or 803-565-5600 Expert Tech, New & used heat pumps & A/C. Will install/repair, warranty; Compressor & labor $600. Call 803-968-9549 or 843-992-2364 3 piece sectional sleeper & chair $1,300, Black lacquer table w/ 6 chairs $1,200, Set of Back coffee and end tables $300. Call 803-983-3312 Martin's Used Appliance Washers, Dryers, Refrig., Stoves.

Special front end load washer $399 Guarantee 464-5439/469-7311

2011 Kioti 30HP 4wd Tractor with loader, backhoe and accessories.

Call 803-795-9166

Home Improvements H.L. Boone, Contractor additions, painting, roofing, gutters, sheetrock, blown ceilings, decks. 773-9904

Accountant/Admin.Assistant Jonas experience preferred Call 772-486-3766

Help Wanted Full-Time Mechanic needed at busy car lot.

Salary based on Exp. Apply in person, at 1282 N. Lafayette Dr. NO PHONE CALLS!!! Valid Driver's License Required. Must have own tools.

F/T Optometric Assistant. Experience preferred but not required.

Must work Saturdays. Will accept resumes on Thurs. Mar. 13th from 1-4 pm at H. Rubin Vision Center, 1057 Broad St., Sumter Mall. No phone calls please.

DRIVERS WANTED

1 male cream color Chihuahua pups.

7 wks old, $150.

803-464-4136

BUSINESS SERVICES

Candlewood Suites 2541 Broad St.

Salesman for busy car lot.

Sales experience required. Salary negotiable. Apply in person at 1282 N Lafayette Dr Sumter. No phone calls.

EMPLOYMENT

Pets

$200 Reward. Lost 3 legged female calico cat in area of Calhoun & Purdy. Call 968-1312

Springhill Suites Marriott is now accepting applications for Front Desk associates, Housekeepers, and a Maintenance Engineer for full and part time positions. Please email resumes to springhill2014@gmail.com or drop off at

“NO GIMMICKS�

. PL RQ DOO PLOHV ‡ /D\RYHU 3D\ ‡ /RDGLQJ XQORDGLQJ IURP st KU *XDUDQWHHG 0LQLPXP 3D\ ‡ $FKLHYDEOH *RDOV IRU /XFUDWLYH ,QFHQWLYHV - CDL (Class A) w/ hazmat & tanker - At least 2 yrs. exp. - Clean MVR

MERCHANDISE

- Excellent pay ($.45 per running mile - includes $.06 per diem non-taxable expense) - Paid Vacation - Paid Holidays - Paid Sick Days - BC/BS Health Ins. - Dental Insurance - Life Insurance - Short Term Disability - 401(k) w/co. Match

Garage, Yard & Estate Sales Multi-Family Sale: 130 Elkhorn Trail., Sat. 7AM. Furn, clothes, baby gear, toys, and much more.

Estate Sale, 7 Wingate Ct, Fri 1 pm - 6 pm, Sat 9 am - 2 pm.

Furniture, storm & metal doors, linens, dishes, decor, crystal, jewelry, shoes, clothes. No Early Birds on Sat. 481-3754

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

We Want to Sell Your Car

Now! 4 Lines

+ 4 Days

FOR ONLY

$24!

*PHOTO INCLUDED

00

20 N. Magnolia Street Sumter, SC www.theitem.com No refund for early cancellation.

Private Party Only! Business and commercial accounts not eligible.

All ads must be prepaid. All advertising subject to publisher’s approval.

Special cannot be combined with discounts.

Other restrictions may apply.

Limited Time

803. CALL

774.1234

MARCH INTO MAGNIFICENT DEALS AT MAYOS #6: 0/& "5 &7&3:%": -08 13*$& "/% (&5 5)& 4&$0/% )"-' 13*$& 4VJUT 4IJSUT 5JFT 4IPFT 4QSJOH 4FMFDUJPO OPX JO TUPDL If your suits aren’t becoming to you, It’s a good time to be coming to Mayo’s!

8FTNBSL 1MB[B t t .PO 4BU t XXX .BZPT%JTDPVOU4VJUT DPN

CLASSIFIEDS

THURSDAY, MARCH 06, 2014

Help Wanted Part-Time

Unfurnished Apartments

$$$ AVON $$$ FREE TRAINING! 803-422-5555

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

775-0575 Studio/1 Bedroom apartments available EHO

Christian School seeking Kindergarten teacher for 2014/15. Must hold SC Teaching Certificate. Call 803-934-8727 for application.

Trucking Opportunities Truck Driver Trainees Needed Now at H.O. Wolding Earn $800/wk Local CDL Training NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Be trained & based locally!

1-888-263-7364

HOLLY COURT APARTMENTS located in Manning, currently have spacious two bedroom apartments for rent. Fully carpeted with central air and heat, water and sewer included. Please call to inquire about our Move in Special.

Ph:( 803) 435-8786

Unfurnished Homes

Medical Help Wanted East Palmetto Ambulance Services now accepting applications for Drivers, EMT'S and Paramedics. Apply in person at 3662 Greeleyville HWY , Manning.

803-473-8000

Work Wanted Make Extra $$$ Selling Home/Body Fragrances Kits are $45, $100 or $135 You Buy & We Supply Call 775-7823

Brick 3BR 1BA Recently renovated. Mayesville Area $450 Mo. +Dep Call 843-374-3555

Mobile Home Rentals American MHP, 2 & 3/BRs, lot rentals, water/sewer/garbage pkup inc'd. Sec. 8 ok. 803-494-4300.

3BR 2BA 14x80 No pets Call 803-499-1500 No calls after 9pm (Scenic Lake) Oaklawn MHP: 2 BR M.H.'s, water/sewer/garbage pk-up incl'd.

RV parking avail. Call 494-8350

RENTALS Rooms for Rent Rooms for rent in spacious home. Rent available with private bathroom. Call 803-404-4662 for details.

3br/2ba, 24 x 48 MH. Fenced yard, 10 x 20 deck w/priv. dock, overlooking 22 acre lake. $725/mo + utilities & sec. dep. No pets!

Stove/refrig & microwave incl. min. from Shaw. Call 803-840-9097 or 840-9098.

Resort Rentals Ocean Lakes 2BR/2BA C/H/A Sleeps 8, near ocean, Call 803-773-2438

Office Rentals Retail Space for Rent Bracey Plaza on Manning Avenue 1,250 s/f most reasonable price in town!!! Please call 436-0020

REAL ESTATE

THE ITEM

Farms & Acreage

Autos For Sale

FSBO: Land, Small & Large acreage.

Owner financing.

803-427-3888.

A Guaranteed Credit Approval AUTO LOANS

Land & Lots for Sale 3 Lots in City limits (Bishopville).

Asking $20,000 or possible trade.

Call 803-459-4773

Hair's Auto Sales 4835 Pinewood Rd. 803-452-6020 On The Lot Financing No Credit Check, Free Warranty.

TRANSPORTATION

Manufactured Housing Large 4BR MH, Owner Financing, pay off 15 Yr, 15S area. With small down payment.

Call 795-6572 Tax Time is Here... Low Credit Score? Been turned down for bad credit? Come try us, we do our own financing. We have 3-4-5 bedroom homes. Layaway program available. For more information, call 843-389-4215.

Mopeds / ATVs / Motorcycles 2001 Kawasaki Bayou 220, like new. Less than 30hrs. $1500 FIRM. Call 803-260-9866

R & R Motors 803-494-2886 03' Lincoln Town Car, 03' Dodge Stratus- low miles, 08' Mazda 6, 05' Dodge Dakota Quad Cab 4x4, 06' VW Jetta

Autos For Sale

Miscellaneous

Auto Choice Sales & Rentals Buy Here, Pay Here. No Credit, No Problem. Cash Rentals. 494-8827

53.26 Acres (Alcolu area) 4 ponds & Cabin with power, also established road. Ducks, turkeys, fish, deer. Call 803-481-2048 pin# 9129

95' Dodge Ram 1500 with Leer Cap, Sherrod convert , Rhino liner Tow pack., NEW Interior, Stereo XM. Heater, brakes, shocks, exhaust. $4.000 803-435-8075

Reconditioned batteries $35. We buy OLD battery cores. Golf cart chargers for sale. Auto Electric Co 803-773-4381

STATEBURG COURTYARD 2 & 3 BRs 803-494-4015

I’ve never seen so many cars and people!

What do you think is going on over there?

Well, I was told she’s having one of those ‘Garage Sales.’ Can you imagine?!

Minnie told me she made over $100 last time she had one... Just by placing a Classified Ad in

20 N. Magnolia St. Sumter, SC 803.774.1234 www.theitem.com

BUY IT. SELL IT. FIND IT. Classified ads make finding a car easy.

Classified ads are great for finding those purrfect pets.

Classified ads can get you antiques for your home.

Classified ads put home-seekers on solid ground.

Looking to find...

A NEW BEST FRIEND?

Classified ads make finding a job practically no work at all.

No matter what it is, you can always buy it, sell it or find it with The Item Classified ads.

For information, or to place an ad. Call 774-1234.

The News You Can Use.

for the new house or the new spouse in one convenient placeOUR CLASSIFIEDS! Sporting Goods • Electronics Appliances • Furniture • Cameras Jewelry • Dishes • Books PLUS A WHOLE LOT MORE!

Farms & Acreage

Unfurnished Apartments

Do you think we should have one and place an ad?

It sure would help with Spring Cleaning!

ne STOP SHOPPING You can find everything you need

1986 Fleetwood DW 3 BR 2 BA As is $37, 000 Call 703-599-5027

3BR 2BA 14x70 All Appliances, Sect.

8 Accepted Call 803-469-6978

3BR 1.5 BA Waterfront Apt at the Lake $750 mo+ $750 Dep No pets 803-983-9035 or 803-773-6655

Autos For Sale

We will arrange financing even if you have been turned down before.

Loans available for no credit, bad credit, 1st Time Buyers & Bankruptcy buyers. No co-signers needed. Call Mr. Ashley Brown at 803-926-3235

Homes for Sale Sumter W Sherwood Dr- Brick 3BR 1BA 1016 sq ft. attached garage. Lease or Cash Call for details 877-499-8065

CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT Call, email or fax us today!

FODVVLILHG#WKHLWHP FRP ‡ FAX

(803) 774-1234

B7

774-1234

B8

THE ITEM

CLASSIFIEDS

THURSDAY, MARCH 06, 2014