2021 Top 20 Under 40

Top 2020-2021

professionals SUMTER • LEE • CLARENDON #SUMTER20UNDER40

SUMTER • LEE • CLARENDON #SUMTER20UNDER40

Thank you for naming Shretta Godbolt as one of the Top 20 Professionals Under 40 in Sumter, Lee and Clarendon counties.

At SouthState, we are committed to delivering exceptional service and the best financial solutions, while investing in the customers and communities we serve. And we’re incredibly proud you have selected one of our wonderful team members for this honor. Thank you, Sumter!

Congratulations Shretta Godbolt!

Shretta Godbolt • Branch Manager 1141 Broad Street • Sumter, SC 29150 803.305.6180 • SouthStateBank.com Member FDIC

Congratulations Roderick McGee! 1115 S. Lafayette Drive, Sumter, SC

803-774-3998

Congratulations Lewis!

Automobile

Accidents Trucking Accidents Personal Injury Criminal Defense Family Law Real Estate Estate/ Probate

sumterattorney.com (803) 773-4371 23 West Calhoun Street Sumter, SC 29150

Congratulations

krissy milan from all of us at Sumter Tourism!

LoveSumter.com 2 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

#SUMTER20UNDER40

Meet the winners

04

Ashley Reddick

09

Lewis H. Warr

04

Antiqunette Dow

09

Jason J. Montgomery

05 05 08 08 09

SAFE Federal Credit Union

The Penthouse Spa & Nile Women’s Empowerment Group

Alonzo McDonald

10

Manning High School

Katie LeBlanc

Young & Warr, LLC Attorneys at Law

City of Manning; Conyers and Montgomery Janitorial Services; Aflac

Torey Shannon

Tasteful Kreations Catering and Event Planning LLC

13

Roderick McGee

13

Jacob Mullikin

14

Mironda Scott

14

Brooke Braswell

City of Sumter

Brubaker’s Café & Bakery

Sumter High School

Re/Max

Palmetto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

11

Mary Copeland Heath

15

Aaron Green

Taylor Daylami

11

David Ferrell

15

Shretta Godbolt

12

C. Scott Horton

Thompson Construction Group

Krissy Milan City of Sumter

Breanna Hughes Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce

12

Becton Dickinson

Central Carolina Technical College

Kyndra Johnson

Clarendon School District Two

16 18 20

Green's Services Plus LLC

South State Bank

Scenes from 2019 Winning sound bites A young professional's guide to Sumter

#Sumter20under40

Top 2020-2021

The Staff professionals

SUMTER • LEE • CLARENDON #SUMTER20UNDER40

SUMTER • LEE • CLARENDON

ON THE COVER: The winners from the 2021-2022 Top 20 Professionals Under 40 you will find inside this magazine. Photos by Micah Green. #SUMTER20UNDER40

Central Carolina Technical College

PUBLISHER Vince Johnson

LAYOUT Janel Strieter

EDITOR Kayla Green

AD SALES Karen Cave Devin McDonald Mark Pekuri

PHOTOGRAPHY Micah Green AD DESIGN Jivon Adams Janel Strieter

COPY EDITING Rhonda Barrick Melanie Smith

36 W. Liberty St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 774-1238

32 E. Calhoun St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 775-1231 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 3

ASHLEY REDDICK,33

Bishopville Branch Manager, SAFE Federal Credit Union in Lee County County of residence: Sumter How long have you lived there?

I have lived in Sumter all my life.

Q

Favorite part of your day: My favorite part of my day would be family time after work with my husband, Jason, and son, Jacob. They are my priority and motivation for everything that I do!

Perfect date night: Perfect date night would be a dinner at one of our local restaurants What did you want to be downtown with my husband. We love to go to Sidebar and enjoy revitalized downtown Sumter. when you grew up?

I wanted to be a veterinarian Advice for other young professionals/one career when I was a kid. I love takeaway you’ve learned: Be the employee who speaks up animals! at meetings! Don’t wait for the right opportunity to come around; make it the right time now! Why? Life is too short! And lastly: work Educational somewhere you are treated like family! background: Volunteer/community/civic engagement: I graduated from Sumter High School in 2006 and I am a member of the Sumter Junior Welfare League. I currently the University of South Carolina in 2009 with a B.A. in Political serve as the co-business manager for the Wishing Well at Prisma Science and a minor in philosophy.

Health Tuomey.

A

What inspired you to take your career path?

The need to work somewhere I could grow and learn is what inspired me to apply for SAFE. I started in August 2012, and it was the best career decision I ever made! I started as a Flex teller at SAFE and worked my way up to management.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I am passionate about raising funds for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and finding a cure for MS. I was diagnosed in 2016, and I don’t take one single day for granted. This award means so much to me! You can do anything you want to regardless of your situation as long as you stay positive, pray and keep going!

ANTIQUNETTE DOW,31 Owner of The Penthouse Spa and founder of Lilies of the Nile Women’s Empowerment Group Position and company: Owner of The Penthouse Spa and founder of Lilies of the Nile Women’s Empowerment Group County of residence: Sumter How long have you lived there? 10 Educational background: Associate degree in business management; Bachelor’s in business administration What inspired you to take your career path?

When I was deployed in Afghanistan, it was extremely difficult for a lot of women. I wanted to make the people around me feel good about themselves. If they felt good, then it put them in a good head space. That ensured that when we went on the

4 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

battlefield, their head was in the game. Advice for other young professionals/one career I just love making people feel good takeaway you’ve learned: about themselves.

Network. Network. Network.

Favorite part of your day: Never be afraid to meet new Meditation session playing sing bowls. people and take advantage of new Best place for a work lunch: opportunities.

Thai House Volunteer/ Perfect date night: community/civic Early evening walk in downtown engagement: Sumter I am the founder of Best place to take the kids: both Lilies of the Nile Swan Lake and Warriors of the Nile.

Where must newcomers As a collective, we do a ton or out-of-towners go/visit? within the community Manchester State Forest for hiking while also building each other up.

Sumter’s hidden gem: AOL Wellness for vegan and alkaline options!

#SUMTER20UNDER40

ALONZO MCDONALD, 35 Agriculture Science Teacher and FFA Advisory, Manning High School How long have you lived there?

I have been a lifelong resident of Clarendon County. However, I wasn’t physically living in Clarendon County during college and a few years post-college.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Growing up, I wanted to be a farmer just like my dad.

Educational background: Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education from Clemson University and a Master of Education in STEM Leadership.

What inspired you to take your career path?

My high school agriculture science teacher, Coach Haynes Favorite part of your day: The morning is my favorite part of the day because it is a chance to set the pace for your future.

Favorite restaurant: D&H BBQ in Manning

wife Clarendon’s hidden gem: The Santee Indian Mound Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Be willing to learn from all people you encounter, no matter how young or old they may be.

Everyone has life experiences that can enhance your future.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: As the FFA advisory, I volunteer alongside my students at various school and community events, to include the Families Helping Families Warehouse, Think Pink Banquet, assisting Clarendon County and numerous school projects.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I enjoy spending time exploring nature with my wife, Elizabeth, and our four kids.

Best place for a work lunch: The Orchard Café in Manning Perfect date night: Crab legs from Gulla Gulla Fish in Manning and Netflix with my

KATIE LEBLANC,29

Q

A

County of residence: Sumter County

How long have you lived there? I grew up in Sumter! My family moved to the area in 1993, and I lived here until leaving for college in 2010. After finishing dental school and residency in 2019, I knew that I wanted to come back home to start my career. It has proven to be a great decision.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I’ve actually always wanted to be a dentist. I can remember dressing up for “grown-up day” in kindergarten, wearing a white coat with a toothbrush in the front pocket!

Educational background: After graduating from Wilson Hall, I attended Clemson University and received a B.S. in biological sciences.

Then, I enrolled in the Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine, where I earned my DMD in 2018. Finally, I spent a year in residency for Advanced Education in General Dentistry at Texas A&M College of Dental Medicine in Dallas, Texas.

What inspired you to take your career path?

I’ve always been interested in health care, but my favorite thing about dentistry is the unique mixture between science and creativity that it involves. While it definitely takes technical skill,

#SUMTER20UNDER40

Dentist, Palmetto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry there is an artistic side needed to make a nice-looking crown or filling. You get to work with your hands to create smiles for patients, which is a lot of fun. Getting to know and work with so many different people every day is a highlight as well.

Perfect date night: Dinner at La Piazza on a pretty night followed by dessert at Rafters or a trip to the brewery for one of their events. We love the atmosphere downtown!

Best place to take the kids: My “kids” are currently two golden retrievers named Maggie and Maple, and our favorite place to go is the SPCA Bark Park.

There is so much for them to do. They would stay there all day if I let them!

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

One of our special events like Porches, 4th Fridays or Oktoberfest. They show some of the best sides of Sumter and are so much fun!

Sumter’s hidden gem: Carnivore. They are so friendly. We love stopping by to find something to grill.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: I’ve learned the importance of surrounding yourself with a team that encourages and supports you daily.

It makes all the difference, so most days don’t even feel like work!

TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 5

Since 1986, Thompson has provided construction and industrial services with the highest standards in safety, quality and integrity for a variety of industries. We now serve the United States with over 20 locations, plus mobile operations across the globe. Our growing family of companies has come a long way, but Sumter will always be our home. www.thompsonsoutheast.com 800-849-8040 | 100 North Main Street, Sumter, SC 29150

SAFETY AND SERVICE Thompson’s commitment to safety radiates throughout the entire organization’s culture through a top-to-bottom, all-in approach. We’ve redirected our primary focus to Serious Injury and Fatality prevention. By identifying precursors to the most serious risks and implementing additional controls and layers of protection, we have created a safer working environment that holds everyone accountable for taking safety personally.

Just as we are committed to our people and their safety, we are also committed to serving our community.

We continue to foster a culture of civic engagement as we participate actively in economic development and numerous non-pro it organizations in Sumter.

WORKING AT THOMPSON - PEOPLE FIRST, SAFETY FIRST Thompson started in Sumter as a family business and no matter how we grow, we always want our employees to feel like family. Throughout all the Thompson companies, our core values are safety, quality and integrity, with safety always being our number one priority. We take care of our people through forward-thinking safety programs, leadership devel-opment, exceptional bene its, training and career advance-ment. Thompson really is an exceptional place to work, and as part of our team, you will experience the core values that make us who we are.

6 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

Interested in a career with Thompson? Visit the careers page at www.thompsonsoutheast.com.

#SUMTER20UNDER40

SAFETY QUALITY INTEGRITY Congratulations to Taylor Daylami Thompson Industrial Services provides safe, comprehensive

industrialfor cleaning to as major facilities. being services honored oneindustrial of Sumter’s TopOur work is safer, faster and more precise with our growing line of advanced 20 under 40. We applaud your success and automation technologies.

commitment to our community.

Thompson Construction Group focuses on industrial construction and on-site maintenance. Specializing in large industrial projects, we build and maintain facilities for a range of industries like Power, Paper, Construction Steel and beyond.

Thompson Group focuses on industrial construction and on-site maintenance. Specializing in large industrial projects, we build and maintain facilities for a rangeTurner, of industries like Power, Paper, Steel and beyond.

Thompson general contractors, builds commercial,

government and educational facilities. We offer single-source, deadlines and budget-oriented delivery, including Design/Build and Thompson Turner, general contractors, builds commercial, government and CM at Risk. educational facilities. We offer single-source, deadlines and budget-oriented delivery, including Design/Build and CM at Risk.

Thompson Power Services provides construction services related to boiler and major gas-path equipment installation and repair for electricIndustrial utilities and industrial facilities.

Thompson Services provides safe, comprehensive industrial cleaning services to major industrial facilities. Our work is safer, faster and more precise with our Thompson growing line of Maintenance advanced automation technologies.

Services provides equipment

maintenance, facility maintenance, operations support, elevated cleaning and small capital project improvements.

Power Services

Thompson Power Services provides construction services related to boiler and major gas-path equipment installation and repair for electric utilities recovery and industrial Thompson Disaster Recovery Services provides facilities.

solutions to State and Federal agencies including the repair, replacement, and reconstruction of residential areas impacted by naturalDisaster disasters.

Thompson Recovery Services provides recovery solutions to state and federal agencies including the repair, replacement and reconstruction of residential Thompson Fabrication provides sheet metal fabrication, areas impacted by Custom natural disasters.

structural steel fabrication, CNC Plasma cutting, and on-site installation services to a wide range of industries.

SAFETY

QUALITY

INTEGRITY

THOMPSON INDUSTRIAL SERVICES IS NOW PROVIDING COVID-19 DISINFECTING SERVICES We’re here to help your organization keep people safe and healthy. Call us to disinfect your facility safely and thoroughly with disinfectant products that are EPA-regulated for the current pandemic. #SUMTER20UNDER40

800-849-8040 | cwise@thompsonind.com

TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 7

TAYLOR DAYLAMI,30

KRISSY MILAN ,32

Business Development Manager, Thompson Construction Group Position and company: Business Development Manager, Thompson Construction Group County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there?

2 years What did you want to be when you grew up?

A professional soccer player.

Educational background: Bachelor of Civil Engineering, University of South Carolina; Masters of Business Administration, University of South Carolina; Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) in state of South Carolina What inspired you to take your career path?

I love being the link between an organization I love and prospective/ existing customers. “Selling” Thompson is a no brainer for me because I truly believe that the services we offer are second to none and am passionate about our customer’s success.

Favorite part of your day: Waking up healthy.

Favorite restaurant: Hamptons, not even close.

Best place for a work lunch: Sidebar’s strawberry salad with salmon is the perfect lunch.

Perfect date night: Pre-dinner cocktails at Rafters downtown, followed by dinner at Hamptons and a night cap/ping-pong match at Sumter Original Brewery.

Where must newcomers or outof-towners go/visit? In my opinion, Sumter Original Brewery is the best brewery in the state if not Southeast. It’s a must 8 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

visit for beer lovers, especially when bands are playing on the rooftop.

Sumter’s hidden gem: It’s nice to live in a town where Southern hospitality still exists and people are genuinely nice.

Unfortunately, you don’t get that anymore in more visited parts of the state.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Do what you say you are going to do.

Anything else you want people to know about you? I have an amazing wife, Lauren, who was born and raised in Sumter, and one dog, Cooper, and one cat, Reese.

Q

A

Visitor Center Coordinator for the City of Sumter Tourism Department

Position and company: Visitor Center Coordinator for the City of Sumter Tourism Department What did you want to be when you grew up?

An actress. I love movies and being on the stage!

Educational background: Advertising degree from USC Columbia Favorite part of your day: When people come in and ask me what there is to do in Sumter. Oh Lord, I hope they’ve got a minute because I have plenty to say on that!

Favorite restaurant: All of them. Honey fried chicken? Country Boy Kitchen. Enchiladas? Yucatan.

Seafood? Palmetto Oyster House. Macarons? Myra’s Kitchen. Eating in Sumter is like being at a 24/7 international food festival.

Best place for a work lunch: If it’s Friday, I always hit up the farmers markets. I love the diversity!

Perfect date night: Do a round at Lock, Clock and Peril, then go to Willie Sue’s for dinner and Thai Tea for rolled ice cream!

Best place to take the kids: Swan Lake-Iris Gardens playground and then to TCBY around the corner for yogurt!

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

Swan Lake-Iris Gardens, of course. We are the only public park in the country with all eight species of swans.

Sumter’s hidden gem: Brubaker’s in Naomi and Warner! The chai tea is perfection!

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Always factor in how happy a job makes you. You can make $100,000 a year, but if you’re stressed and miserable, it’ll never last. Find your forever spot.

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke!

Someone call me butter, because I’m on a roll today.

#SUMTER20UNDER40

BREANNA HUGHES, 27 Director of Communications, Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce; Owner of Huck and Grace Catering and Events

Q

A

County of residence: Sumter How long have you lived there?

27 years What did you want to be when you grew up? Nurse

Educational background: Pursuing an MBA at the University of South Carolina-Aiken What inspired you to take your career path?

My love for the growth of Sumter and my community Favorite part of your day: Reading a book and praying with my son before bed.

Favorite restaurant: Mon Café Best place for a work lunch: Sidebar Perfect date night: Dinner, drinks and music!!

Best place to take the kids: Swan Lake-Iris Gardens

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/ visit? Sumter Original Brewery Sumter’s hidden gem: Susie’s Chicken and Fries

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Advice: Get involved! Surround yourself with people who will motivate you! Career takeaway: You can’t lead people walking backwards!

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: Vice Chair of Young Professionals of Sumter, Board member for the Sumter Advocacy Center, Executive Team Leader for American Heart Association, recently named Young Professional of the Year by The Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce, member of the Sumter Kiwanis Club, sits on the Sumter Senior Services Fundraising Committee, member of Zoar Church in Sumter.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

Mother of a 4-year-old little boy named Huck.

County of residence: Sumter How long have you lived there?

I grew up in Alcolu but moved to Gable with my wife after law school.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I have wanted to be an attorney for as long as I can remember.

Educational background: The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, B.S. in Business Administration. University of South Carolina School of Law, J.D.

LEWIS H. WARR,28 LLC Partner, Young & Warr, Attorneys at Law

#SUMTER20UNDER40

What inspired you to take your career path?

My desire to help injured South Carolinians and those falsely accused of a crime.

Favorite part of your day: Walking in the door at home after a day’s work to my oldest daughter smiling and waving.

Favorite restaurant: Willie Sue’s

Dinner in Charleston Best place to take the kids: Grandparent’s house Where must newcomers or out-oftowners go/visit?

Backcountry at the Sumter County Museum Sumter/Clarendon’s hidden gem: Black River Swamp on a cool morning during deer season.

Advice for other young professionals/ one career takeaway you’ve learned: It is essential to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: The Rotary Club of Sumter-Palmetto; Young Professionals of Sumter; South Carolina Association For Justice

Anything else you want people to know about you? I’ve been married to my wife, Mary Rachel, for 3 years, and we have two beautiful and sweet daughters, Mary June and Sarah Mayes.

Best place for a work lunch: J. O’Grady’s Perfect date night:

TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 9

JASON J. MONTGOMERY, 34

Clerk of Court – City of Manning; Co-Owner – Conyers and Montgomery Janitorial Services; Business Solutions Agent – Aflac as a summer intern. It was an instant connection.

Eleven years later, I’m still here. I always gave thought to being a business owner. God paved that path for me this year. Myself and my very good friend co-own a janitorial service. Aflac gives me a way to help others and small business owners. I simply have a heart to help others.

County of residence: Clarendon County

How long have you lived there? All my life What did you want to be when you grew up? I always wanted to be an attorney.

Educational background: Manning High School (Class of ‘05), Central Carolina Technical College (A+, Net+) What inspired you to take your career path?

It was totally a God “thing.” I interned with the city

Favorite part of your day: Late night. I’m truly a night owl!

Favorite restaurant: I’d be hard-pressed to name just one!

We always have good information to help you on your way!

Clarendon’s hidden gem: Our citizens! After all, we are “Matchless for Beauty and Hospitality”!

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Adopt a hard work ethic, mature in having patience, and never give up!

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: President, Clarendon County Chamber of Best place for a work lunch: Commerce; Clarendon County First Steps Leadership Board; Clarendon County Archives So many good eateries in Manning! I’d be hard pressed to name just one!

Advisory Board; Clarendon County Christian Learning Center Board; Clarendon County Perfect date night: recreational basketball coach; Clarendon County A cool, fall night atop a rooftop restaurant in an Disabilities & Special Needs Human Rights amazing city!

Committee; The Economic Vitality Board of Main Where must newcomers or out-of-towners St. Manning; Manning Heart & Soul Committee. go/visit ?

The Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce!

TOREY SHANNON, 39

Q

Chef and Owner, Tasteful Kreations Catering and Event Planning LLC

A

A chef and a mortician

County of residence: Sumter How long have you lived there?

I’m a Sumterite What did you want to be when you grew up?

Educational background: Business administration/information technology/computer science What inspired you to take your career path?

My grandfather/grandmother for the most part with cooking.

My grandparents were major influencers on how my family came together to eat and love on each other.

Favorite part of your day: Morning, new beginnings Favorite restaurant: Alligator Soul in Savannah, Georgia Best place for a work lunch: Genuine Flava Perfect date night: A private chef, of course Best place to take the kids: Myrtle Beach 10 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

Swan Lake Sumter’s hidden gem: Genuine Flava Restaurant Advice for other young professionals/ one career takeaway you’ve learned: “Stick with YOUR Gift, It’ll make Room for You.” Acknowledge and grow the gift or talent that God has given you. You’ll find satisfaction even when money isn’t involved.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: The Alpha Male Institute mentoring program of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., FBLA, March of Dimes, the “CHEF” Initiative (Chefs Helping Effectively Foster), Hope initiative (Mentoring through Chef Internships) Anything else you want people to know about you?

I am the husband of Kassandra Jenkins Shannon (co-owner) and the father of four fabulous girls, Sa’Nai, Makayla, Aniyah and Taurie Alaya. I also come from a family of funeral directors to which I am third-generation. #SUMTER20UNDER40

MARY COPELAND HEATH, 25

Assistant Director of the Foundation, Central Carolina Technical College County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there? I have lived in Sumter my whole life.

Educational background: Wilson Hall – Baron from the beginning, and bachelor’s in business administration and hospitality and tourism management with a minor in urban studies from the College of Charleston What inspired you to take your career path?

I was able to use my Sumter connections when I came back home after college to help me find a position at Central Carolina. At that point, I knew what I did not want to do with my career, but I couldn’t put my finger on what I did want to do. Luckily, I found a wonderful boss and mentor in Misty Hatfield. She has truly inspired me to advance my career.

Favorite restaurant: Thai House is my favorite restaurant in Sumter. I love their sushi rolls and pad thai.

Best place for a work lunch: My colleagues and I enjoy going to Yucatan for a quick work lunch. It’s not a work lunch without chips and salsa!

Perfect date night: My boyfriend and I enjoy going to Sidebar for a bite to eat and then walking over to Sumter Original Brewery to meet with friends.

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/ visit?

My top two places to bring visitors are Swan Lake-Iris Gardens and Sumter Original Brewery. My great-great grandfather, A.T. Heath, Sr. actually donated his property to the City of Sumter in 1938 to join the Blands’ property to become what is now known as Swan Lake-Iris Gardens. I take pride in sharing with others that my family has aided in the beautification of Sumter for so many years.

Sumter’s hidden gem: I recently discovered Poinsett State Park. I have lived in Sumter my entire life and had never been until recently. It’s nice to spend time outside after spending all day in an office.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Always take the opportunities presented to you for professional development. “Innovation is the ability to see change as an opportunity – not a threat.” – Steve Jobs Volunteer/community/civic engagement: Young Professionals of Sumter Anything else you want people to know about you? My parents are Jim and Stephanie Heath, and I have a younger brother Taylor Heath. We recently got a fur baby named Pawley. She is a springer-doodle who we named after Pawley’s Island. We are all die-hard Clemson fans!

DAVID FERRELL, 29 Manufacturing Manager, Becton Dickinson

County of residence: Sumter

over the last several years, and we love it.

How long have you lived there?

29 years

Sumter’s hidden gem: Being a Sumter native and growing up here, it has been very impressive to see how much Sumter has changed in the last decade. Sumter has a great deal of opportunity for people to capitalize on if they choose to do so. It is exciting to see many new faces and a growing young population that are realizing those opportunities and choose to call Sumter home.

Educational background: I graduated from The Citadel in 2014 with a degree in business administration.

What inspired you to take your career path?

My father was in manufacturing for his entire career. I saw the fact that he, and many other people I knew in the community, viewed manufacturing as a solid career path. One where you could provide a great living with opportunities for your family and be in a field where your efforts had an impact on people.

What drew me to BD was being part of a company has a true impact on people’s lives and advancing the world of health.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: One thing I’ve learned early on in my career that I believe is a critical component of anyone’s success is the ability to accept critical feedback from your leaders. I have learned that tough feedback is always an Favorite restaurant: opportunity to grow and better yourself Hampton’s, downtown Sumter. You will not professionally. It is not an easy thing to find a better place. The atmosphere of our do. I’ve come to learn in my career usually downtown venue has seen improvement when critical feedback is given to you it is #SUMTER20UNDER40

because someone else is seeing potential in you that you are not aware of. I have been extremely fortunate to work for a company and have managers who openly challenge me to better others and myself each day, being open and accepting their input has been pivotal in my career.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

Faith and family are both very important to me in my personal life. I am an active member of my church, Alice Drive Baptist. I have been married to my wife, Ryane, for five years, and we have an 18-month-old son who I love spending time with dearly.

TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 11

C. SCOTT HORTON,39

Director Assistant Director of the Foundation, Central Carolina Technical College

County of residence: Sumter County

visit? Swan Lake, Sumter Opera House, Sumter County Museum

How long have you lived there? 7 years

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Veterinarian

Sumter’s hidden gem: Poinsett State Park and Lake Marion

Educational background: B.S. in civil engineering, minor in environmental engineering – Clemson University

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes…just don’t make the same mistake twice. Say please and thank you. Do what you say you are going to do.

Show up on time.

Perfect date night: An impromptu boat ride on Lake Marion to watch the sunset.

Anything else you want people to know about you? Married to my wife, Leslie, for 14 years and have 3 children: Helms – 10, Camden Reese – 7, Field – 6. We have a Wheaten Terrier; Boone – 2 Clemson – Go Tigers!

What inspired you to take your career path?

My father taught engineering drafting at the high school level in the Richland County School District and encouraged me to pursue a Volunteer/community/civic engagement: eSTEAM Festival, Westminster Presbyterian career in engineering.

Church, Rotary Club of Sumter, Senior Services Favorite part of your day: Coming home to Sip and Stroll/Beer Tasting eat dinner with the family and hearing about Give us your best Mom/Dad joke! Went deer their day. hunting with my oldest son a few weekends Favorite restaurant: Grill 225 in Charleston ago and we saw an otter. Told him, “I have never seen anything otter in my life.”

Best place for a work lunch: Hamptons

Best place to take the kids: The backyard

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/

KYNDRA JOHNSON,31

District Social Worker and Truancy Officer, Clarendon School District Two County of residence: Clarendon County How long have you lived there? 31 years Educational background: I received my bachelor’s degree in social work (2013) and master’s degree in social work (2017) from the University of South Carolina. I became a licensed social worker for the state of South Carolina in 2017.

I am currently working on completing my clinical license.

What inspired you to take your career path?

I would say my career chose me. I have so many influential role models in my life who serve roles in their communities where they are assisting in providing resources

12 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

and services to benefit children and families. My biggest role model in the social work field would be my sister, state Rep. Kimberly O. Johnson. I grew up watching her serve others while in different social work roles. I have always been amazed about her passion for giving back to the community, and I always knew I wanted to have that same impact on others. I was blessed with opportunities while I was in college to intern at schools, counseling agencies and other agencies that provided services to enhance the lives of others. I have always had a passion for helping others and advocating for those who felt they could not advocate for themselves.

Best place for a work lunch: Gullah Gullah Fish in Manning Best place to take the kids: Gibbons St. Park in Manning Where must newcomers

or out-of-towners go/visit?

Clarendon County Archives and Museum Clarendon’s hidden gem: The Lake Marion area. It has a beautiful area to take pictures and/or walk for exercise.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: My advice to other young professionals would be to always be willing to learn. I would also advise young professionals to be a great follower if they hope to be a great leader.

Always focus on your passion for your career because that will give you the drive to be successful at your job on the days where it is most difficult. The most important advice I can also give is to make time for self-care. Everyone always says “you can’t pour from an empty cup,” and that is very true. You can’t take care of anyone else’s needs if you have not met your own needs. #SUMTER20UNDER40

RODERICK MCGEE, 27 Aquatics Performance Professional, City of Sumter Aquatics Center County of residence: Sumter How long have you lived there? 26 What did you want to be when you grew up?

Actor Educational background: High school diploma What inspired you to take your career path?

Growing up, I did not see many people that looked like me in the world of swimming.

Once I started at the Aquatics Center, I realized the diversity

discrepancies within swimming and wanted to be the change I wanted to see in the world.

I wanted to be an inspiration to others by impacting my community and creating diversity within swimming.

Best place for a work lunch: Yucatan

City of Sumter Aquatics Center Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: "Never limit yourself because of others' limited imagination; never limit others because of your own limited imagination."Mae Jemison.

Best place to take the kids: Volunteer/community/ Sumter Aquatics Center civic engagement: Safe kids coalition; Whales Tales Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit? Water Safety; South Carolina Swimming Diversity, Equity, and City of Sumter Aquatics Center Inclusion Athlete Committee and Palmetto Tennis Center Sumter’s hidden gem:

JACOB MULLIKIN, 27 Co-Owner and Coffee Roaster, Brubaker’s Café & Bakery

County of residence: Sumter

During that time, I saw how good coffee can be and started learning How long have you lived more about it. I realized how much there? Just over a year. the processes I had learned in What did you want to be college were practically applied when you grew up? in the roasting process. In 2018, I Lots of things throughout my started roasting my own coffee, and childhood. For the longest time, I the idea for Brubaker’s bloomed wanted to be a doctor or a scientist. from that and my father-in-law’s love for baking. Best place for Educational background: Associate degree in general science a work lunch: Shameless selffrom Piedmont Technical College. promotion: Brubaker’s is good for a delicious sandwich or salad.

I majored in biochemistry and molecular biology at Perfect date night: I’m a sucker USC in Columbia for the nostalgic date night of but didn’t finish my catching a movie at the Beacon and degree. I might go grabbing some superman ice cream back and complete from Duggie Dogs. that eventually.

Best place to take the kids: What inspired you to Swan Lake has a wonderful park. take your career path?

My son loves playing on the oldI always wanted to do fashioned fire truck and seeing the something that applied scientific swans and ducks. processes to directly improve Where must newcomers or people’s lives. I found my way into the world of coffee out-of-towners go/visit? My suggestion is to make a day of when I began working as a barista during my studies at USC. I ended downtown and Main Street. There are so many good options for food. up taking a job as a coffee and espresso machine repair technician. You can go to the Jewish History #SUMTER20UNDER40

Museum at Temple Sinai. The Sumter County Museum has some great exhibits. See the wonderful murals. Check out the boutiques and shops. Play a round of pool, table tennis or shuffleboard at Sumter Original Brewery, and catch some local entertainment at the brewery or the opera house.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

While I’m not a big fan of most sports, I love rugby. If anyone in Sumter wants to start a club team, get in touch with me!

TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 13

MIRONDA SCOTT, 34 Teacher/Coach at Sumter High School County of residence: Sumter How long have you lived there?

I just recently moved back for my new position, but I moved here as a child in 1990 and graduated from Sumter High in 2005.

The best part of my day is practice with my student-athletes. I enjoy watching them embrace the journey of training, setting goals and crushing them.

Favorite restaurant: What did you want to be when you grew up? Don’t really have a favorite, but I love I wanted to be an athletic trainer/coach. I just wanted Caribbean food to be involved in athletics.

Perfect date night: Something active and a different Educational background: I graduated from South Carolina State University with experience for both of us, such as trying a new restaurant or checking out a new a B.S. in Biology Education. I received my Master band or music spot of Education from Columbia College in divergent learning and from the University of South CarolinaColumbia in education administration.

What inspired you to take your career path?

My mother was a teacher for over 35 years in the public school system, with her last 25 being at Sumter High School. I grew up watching her be passionate about the students she taught, and I wanted to be in a profession that would allow me to impact students like that. My coaches in high school and college inspired me to go into coaching. I loved all my coaches, and all of them play a role in my growth, development and success.

Favorite part of your day:

Best place to take the kids: We like being outside, so the beach or hiking is always fun

Where must newcomers or out-oftowners go/visit?

Swan Lake-Iris Gardens Sumter’s hidden gem: Sumter Original Brewery Volunteer/community/civic engagement: I am a part of the South Carolina State Alumni Chapter, which engages in various community service activities.

BROOKE BRASWELL,27 Realtor, Re/Max; Community Sales Manager, Great Southern Homes

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I am a proud mother to my beautiful and talented fifth-grade daughter. I am a dog-mom to my yorkie, Dallas. We are proud Dallas Cowboy fans. My father is retired and enjoys being a granddad to my daughter.

I have a younger brother who also lives and works in Sumter. I enjoy running, reading and watching Grey’s Anatomy. I love all my athletes, and Sumter High School has the best athletes in the state!

2. Don’t ever think you know everything. There’s always something new to learn.

3. Genuinely listen when people are talking to you.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: Young Professionals board member; Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee for The Sumter Board County of residence: Sumter of Realtors; actively involved in the Sumter and Columbia BIA and Chambers; avid volunteer, ranging How long have you lived there? Native from the American Heart Association, Habitat for What did you want to be when you grew up?

Humanity, Feed My Starving Children, Camp Cole and Nurse anesthetist being a camp counselor for the Resiliency Camp for What inspired you to take your career path? Shaw AFB children. I collaborated with Shaw AFB on I was in nursing school and needed a job that I could the civilian side to help plan, fundraise, and execute do on the side. After obtaining my real estate license the Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk held and working for a few months, I realized this was my at Patriot Park on Sept 25. passion.

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke! Haha. This is Favorite restaurant: Thai House actually what I’m known for with friends and family.

I’m always telling Dad Jokes. “Why did the old man Best place for a work lunch: Sidebar fall in the well? He couldn’t see that well!”

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners Anything else you want people to know go/visit? about you? I love traveling. There is nothing like Downtown Sumter and Swan Lake-Iris Gardens seeing new places, experiencing new cultures and Advice for other young professionals/one people. Although I don’t yet have one of my own, career takeaway you’ve learned: family is very important to me. I love having Sunday family dinners and brining everyone together for 1. Get involved with as many groups as possible so fellowship. I enjoy reading, cooking, working out and you can meet people and make connections in the am always down for any adventure. community. It’s always nice to have friends all over.

AARON GREEN 38

Job title of person

Owner, Green's Services Plus LLC Position and Company: Owner, Green's Services Plus LLC

County of residence: Sumter How long have you lived there?

Entire life

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Fireman

Educational background: Graduated Sumter High School C/O 2001 What inspired you to take your career path?

Always wanted to be a fireman, achieved that goal while running my business. Life happened and I had to leave the fire department. My inspiration was a determination to succeed. I thought the door closing was an ending, but it was a beginning. God blessed me with a vision of growing my business, and I was able to solely focus on just that.

Favorite part of your day: Getting home from work and relaxing in my recliner.

Favorite restaurant: Willie Sue's

Perfect date night: Dinner, Music, great atmosphere with my wife Best place to take the kids: Sweet Frog Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

Swan Lake Sumter’s hidden gem: Piper's Pottery on Broad Street Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: When it comes to many things in life, especially entrepreneurship, what you put in, is what you get out. Work hard, network, provide good, honest service, and put your faith and trust in God to lead you in the right direction.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: Member of High Roller's Motorcycle Club Anything else you want people to know about you?

Husband to wife, Tiffany, and I have a beautiful, blended family to include 7 daughters, 1 son and a spoiled Yorkie, Creed.

Best place for a work lunch: Jeffrey Lampkin's Country Boy Kitchen

SHRETTA GODBOLT, 29 South State Bank – Branch Manager County of residence: Sumter County

get back into the schools and in front of the students. Being a Sumter native How long have you lived there: Practically my entire and going back to my alma mater is always a humbling experience because it life, so about 28 years. My dad is retired U.S. Army, so wasn’t that long ago I was in their position. And it’s nice to hear from people from your hometown who are successful. It gives them hope that there are once he retired, they settled here in Sumter. opportunities right here!

What did you want to be when you grew up? I actually wanted to be a teacher when I was younger. Anything else you want people to know about you?

My family is everything to me. My parents and Educational background: I graduated from my sisters are my complete support system.

Crestwood High School in 2011 and attended They are literally the ones who motivate me Central Carolina briefly before I began working to think past the daily hustle and bustle. here.

Life is going to give you opportunities Favorite part of your day: When I get to wind down with my daughter, Camille, to make a choice to remain humble and positive. I would advise anyone to choose and our dog, Tink. that path. Never be afraid to go after what Best place for a work lunch: Definitely Cook-Out you want and always find the strength to fight for what you believe in. Always show Perfect date night: Every once in a while, I love the simplicity of a simple gratitude to those that you love because dinner and a movie. tomorrow is not promised. Above all Best place to take the kids: My daughter, Camille, loves the movies, which is things, believe in yourself in your always enjoyable because the Beacon was my first job so it’s always nice to best and worst moments because take her back to “Mommy’s old stomping grounds.” every day is a new day full Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit? If you have the of opportunities. I never opportunity, definitely Swan Lake. Especially during the holidays, it’s imagined I could be BEAUTIFUL! the woman I am today, and that drives my Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: optimism for what the Never take anything for granted, be grateful for the opportunities that you future holds have in front of you, and take advantage of them!

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: I love any opportunity that I can

#SUMTER20UNDER40

TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 15

2021 Scenes from

Our 2021 awards banquet for the annual 20 Under 40 contest was held at Lavendar Fields Estate in Sumter, SC. For photos, go to www.TheItem.com.

Here's a look back at our 2020 winners and their supporters.

Photos by Kayla Green and Janel Strieter

16 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

#SUMTER20UNDER40

#SUMTER20UNDER40

TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 17

Quotable Notable

and

Being a Sumter native and growing up here, it has been very impressive to see how much Sumter has changed in the last decade. Sumter has a great deal of opportunity for people to capitalize on if they choose to do so. –David Ferrell

Growing up, I did not see many people that looked like me in the world of swimming. Once I started at the Aquatics Center, I realized the diversity discrepancies within swimming and wanted to be the change I wanted to see in the world.

– Roderick McGee

I’ve learned the importance of surrounding yourself with a team that encourages and supports you daily. It makes all the difference, so most days don’t even feel like work!

— Katie LeBlanc

The biggest piece of advice I can give a young professional is to never get complacent. If you are passionate about your career, you will always take the time to get better, perfect your craft and reach out to others to gain more knowledge.

Never stop growing.

– Mironda Scott

Adopt a hard work ethic, mature in having patience, and never give up!

- Jason J. Montgomery 18 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

What did you want to be when you grew up? I entered college thinking I wanted to be a wedding planner. I grew up watching “Say Yes to the Dress,” and love a good party.

-Mary Copeland Heath It was a series of events that God ultimately made all possible because I originally wanted to be an athletic trainer. My dad always used to tell me he could see me working at a bank (literally eight or nine years ago while I was still popping popcorn at the Beacon). I started as a part-time teller and would have never in a million years thought I’d end up where I am today.

God has an interesting way of everything aligning up exactly the way it’s supposed to be!” — Shretta Godbolt

Always factor in how happy a job makes you. You can make $100,000 a year, but if you’re stressed and miserable, it’ll never last. Find your forever spot.— Krissy Milan #SUMTER20UNDER40

It is essential to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

— Lewis H. Warr Be willing to learn from all people you encounter, no matter how young or old they may be. Everyone has life experiences that can enhance your future.

— Alonzo McDonald

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes…just don’t make the same mistake twice. Say please and thank you. Do what you say you are going to do. Show up on time.

– C. Scott Horton Get involved! Surround yourself with people who will motivate you! Career takeaway: You can’t lead people walking backwards!

— Breanna Hughes McCord

I would also advise young professionals to be a great follower if they hope to be a great leader. Always focus on your passion for your career because that will give you the drive to be successful at your job on the days where it is most difficult. -Kyndra Johnson Advice for other young professionals/ one career takeaway you’ve learned: When it comes to many things in life, especially entrepreneurship, what you put in, is what you get out. Work hard, network, provide good, honest service, and put your faith and trust in God to lead you in the right direction.

– Aaron Green

Acknowledge and grow the gift or talent that God has given you. You’ll find satisfaction even when money isn’t involved.

— Torey Shannon

Always take the opportunities presented to you for professional development.

– Mary Copeland Heath

1. Get involved with as many groups as possible so you can meet people and make connections in the community. It’s always nice to have friends all over.

2. Don’t ever think you know everything. There’s always something new to learn.

3. Genuinely listen when people are talking to you.

— Brooke Braswell

Do what you say you are going to do.

– Taylor Daylami Chase purpose, not paychecks. If you find something you’re enthusiastic about, it’s a lot easier to convince people to pay you to do it. — Jacob Mullikin

Be the employee who speaks up at meetings! Don’t wait for the right opportunity to come around; make it the right time now! Why? Life is too short! And lastly: work somewhere you are treated like family! –Ashley Reddick

#SUMTER20UNDER40

TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 19

favorites Professional

We asked our young professionals about some of their favorite things.

Here is your quick guide to the area.

Ashley Reddick

Family time after work with my husband, Jason, and son, Jacob

Antiqunette Dow

AOL Wellness for vegan and alkaline options!

Alonzo McDonald Crab legs from Gulla Gulla Fish in Manning Katie LeBlanc My “kids” are currently two golden retrievers named Maggie and Maple, and our favorite place to go is the SPCA Bark Park.

Taylor Daylami Sidebar’s strawberry salad with salmon is the perfect lunch.

Krissy Milan If it’s Friday, I always hit up the farmers markets.

Breanna Hughes Swan Lake-Iris Gardens is a great place to take my son, Huck.

20 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

Lewis H. Warr Black River Swamp on a cool morning during deer season.

Jason J. Montgomery A cool, fall night atop a rooftop restaurant in an amazing city!

Torey Shannon Genuine Flava Restaurant

Kyndra Johnson Gibbons St. Park in Manning Roderick McGee City of Sumter Aquatics Center and Palmetto Tennis Center Jacob Mullikin A movie at the Beacon and grabbing some superman ice cream from Duggie Dogs.

Mary Copeland Heath Thai House is my favorite restaurant in Sumter. I love their sushi rolls and pad thai.

Mironda Scott The best part of my day is practice with my student-athletes.

David Ferrell Hampton’s, downtown Sumter. You will not find a better place.

Aaron Green Lunch at Jeffrey Lampkin's Country Boy Kitchen

C. Scott Horton An impromptu boat ride on Lake Marion to watch the sunset.

Shretta Godbolt Chicken Shack!

Brooke Braswell Lunch at Thai House

#SUMTER20UNDER40

PRESENTED BY

C. Simmons Continental Destination SPA Lake Marion Pipers Pottery RE/MAX Insurance Studio

Congratulations

JF Contractors The Well

The RE/MAX SUMMIT Real Estate Company congratulates Brooke Braswell for being selected as a Top 20 under 40 winner!

to our Young Professional from SAFE Federal Credit Union

Brooke Braswell The leaders of tomorrow are being developed today at SAFE Federal Credit Union.

Discover your own potential at one of the region's most trusted companies.

Visit SAFEfed.org/careers to get started.

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#SUMTER20UNDER40

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Sum m it

Presented by

Local podcasts for local people. From sports to community events, stayed tuned to The Item’s podcasts.

www.theitem.com/podcasts TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021 21

Past 20 Under 40 Winners A look back at the previous winners and award recipients

Hall of Fame

our 2020 winners...

Austin Floyd JT Duke Shane Evenich Karen Gaines Ryan Dontaye Graham Jillian Huckeba Shanice King

Meagan Kuhlman Thomas Langford Yanet Lopez Nicholas Martin Andrew McCord Drake McCormick Sharease McDowellDwyer

Annie Rivers Dashin Simmons Adrienne Singletary Shakeeya Sorrells Janel Strieter Maggie Weatherly

Hall of Fame

our 2019 winners...

Heather Bass Jenna (Brown) Binion Elayne Brunson Richard Cook Colin Davis Lauren Daylami

Chris DuRant Cody Dyson Ryan Garbalosa Holly Grant Sarah Jane Gibson Sean Gill Trevor Ivey

Chad Jolly Dolores Morales Kia Smith Shasta Smith Charlie Thompson Heather Tickel Lavonda Wells

Hall of Fame

our 2018 winners...

Chelsea Gillis Zach Lowe Jake Cline Ta Haynsworth Curtis Hutto Chris Moore Sandra Metzdorf 22 TOP 20 UNDER 40 2021

Carrie Trebil Brandon Oliver Nicole Bailey Jerome Robinson Jimmy Davis Erricka Jones Travis McIntosh

Howie Owens Carrie Anna Strange Anand Vora Chavis Lesane Rachel Gainey Bronwyn McElveen #SUMTER20UNDER40

E X PA N D YO U R R E AC H

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Firefighters recognized for their service FRIDAY, JANUARY 5, 2018

75 cents

| Serving South Carolina since October 15, 1894

B6

A7 CLASSIFIEDS

LAKESIDE LAKE SIDE Portable units, piping materials big sellers at hardware stores

BY BRUCE MILLS bruce@theitem.com

Banks Smith, 9, hauls a sled down an icy street on Thursday morning in Sumter after the snowfall Wednesday.

Residents take advantage of canceled class, work to enjoy winter weather

BY KAYLA ROBINS kayla@theitem.com

T

he fire truck red of the boys’ sleds was still bright and shiny, un-

scathed by having not experi-

With unseasonably low temperatures at night in the tri-county region since Monday, residents have been buying up portable space heaters and pipe fittings and related parts for burst pipes, according to local hardware stores.

Staff at Lowe’s, Tractor Supply and Simpson Hardware & Sports said Thursday that space heaters have been big sellers all week.

Simpson was the only one that reported Thursday afternoon to still have an assortment of heaters on hand.

After Wednesday’s snowstorm dropped 4 to 6 inches of snow throughout Sumter County and about 3 inches in Clarendon and Lee counties, utility providers only reported a limited number of home power outages in the tri-county region.

Duke Energy spokesman Ryan Mosier said the provider only had a handful of reported outages associated with the cold and snowstorm on Wednesday night in the three counties. Black River Electric Coop. representative James Moye said the co-op had about 95 home outages in the area, but everyone had their power back on by 5 a.m. Thursday.

The stretch of cold nights seem to be causing more problems than Wednesday’s snowfall.

According to National Weather Service

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MERCHANDISE

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The wood wasn’t worn. Their

Contractors Wanted!

The Sumter Item has a newspaper route for the Bishopville area.

Contractor will service home delivery, newspaper racks & newspaper dealers.

Also need contractor for the Mayesville, Elliott & Lynchburg route.

Must have good dependable transportation & a phone in your home. Come by & apply at 36 W. Liberty St. or call Reda at 803-774-1257

Ashwood Lake reopens after 2015 flood damage

Grayson Sanders, 8, sleds past some friends down an icy road in Sumter. sleds with their friends.

The children playing all attend Wilson Hall, which was closed Thursday because of Winter Storm Grayson.

Paige Sanders, 10, stood among the Jones brothers and their friends, laying out the rules for the race. You go there, and you go there.

“Yesterday, we tried to go out here, but it was too powdery,” Sarah Smith said. Her sons, 9-yearold Banks and 7-year-old Eli, were also taking turns racing. “Now that there’s a layer of ice, it’s perfect.”

The storm may have passed by Thursday, leaving sled-friendly roads and a winter wonderland across the Midlands, but the height of it Wednesday evening was not so fun for Smith’s husband.

Sumter County Sheriff’s Office and South Carolina Department of Transportation reported traffic was backed up on U.S. 378 because of cars sliding off the road, getting stuck and being unable to make it up an icy hill. Smith said her husband was in traffic for two hours.

PLUS: Duckfest is back!

Part Time custodian position available. 30 hours per week. .

Send resume to P-480 c//o The Item, PO Box 1677 Sumter SC 29151

new paint, new floors $600mo+Dep. Call Terry Ramsey 803-458-8333 or Lewis

apartments available

Experienced Cashiers, Servers & Grill cook needed. Must be available to work all shifts. Please call Cindy at 803-481-6495 for more info.

Life under the lake with Wateree Dive Club

riders, cold, bright-eyed.

Tru by Hilton, Please apply in person at Spring Hill Suites 2645 Broad St. Seeking front desk clerk, house keeping and maintenance Trusumter@gmail.com

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LO C A L N E W S • S P O RT S • V I D E O • B U S I N E S S • L E G A L S • C O N T E ST S Cold temps and ice remain across state after storm SEE SNOW DAY,

775-9611

COLUMBIA (AP) — The sun came back out Thursday in South Carolina, and temperatures rose above freezing, but many major highways in the eastern part of the state remained an icy mess.

Gov. Henry McMaster authorized 20 National Guard members to use their equipment to help rescue stranded motorists on Interstate 95 and to the east and push vehicles out of the way so the roads could be reopened.

South Carolina Department of TransportaTHE ASSOCIATED PRESS tion crews worked 24 hours a day in shifts to Finley Bork, 7, uses a boogie board, typically used on the beach, for try to clear the ice and snow off roads that sledding down a hill on a golf course at the Isle of Palms on Wednesday. had not dealt with a major winter storm in

DEATHS, B3, B4

VISIT US ONLINE AT

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Robert Billie James Preston Jr. Charles L. Shaw John E. McKnight Robert Walters William A. Cook

James Amos Sr. Darlene S. Lewis Simone A. Glover Dorothy B. Willis Walter R. Straw James A. Jones

ANOTHER COLD DAY Mostly sunny and chilly today; very cold tonight HIGH 40, LOW 17

Bid Notices FOR: Replacement of outside security lights and fuel pump lights SWRTA 17/18-06 Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority (SWRTA) is soliciting proposals from certified light installers to replace outside lighting at the maintenance facility and fueling station located at 21 Holmes Gardner Road, Sumter, SC 29153 to LED lighting upgrade / retrofits.

More detailed information and specifications are found in the solicitation which can be obtained by contacting, Patricia Drakeford, Compliance officer at 803-934-0396 ext. 103, or via email at pdrakeford@swrta.com or via website at www.swrta.com. All Disadvantaged Business Enterprises are encouraged to submit proposals for this procurement.

Questions concerning this Proposal will be accepted in writing via mail or email to the office through January 19, 2018 at 4:00pm. Deadline for proposals is 2/01/2018 at 2:00pm.

Summons & Notice SUMMONS AND NOTICES (Non-Jury) IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS C/A NO.: 2017-CP-43-01794 FORECLOSURE OF REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF SUMTER Ocwen Loan Servicing, LLC, Plaintiff, v.

Any heirs-at-law or devisees of Robert A. England a/k/a Robert England, deceased, their heirs, Personal Representatives, Administrators, Successors and Assigns, and all other persons or entities entitled to claim through them; all unknown persons or entities with any right, title, estate, interest in or lien upon the real estate described in the complaint herein; also any persons who may be in the military service of the United States of America, being a class designated as Richard Roe; and any unknown minors, incompetent or imprisoned person, or persons under a disability being a class designated as John Doe; Sonja G. England a/k/a Sonja England; Brittany England, Defendant(s).

TO THE DEFENDANT(S) ABOVE NAMED: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to appear and defend by answering the Complaint in this action, a copy of which is hereby served upon you, and to serve a copy of your Answer on the subscribers at their offices at 3800 Fernandina Road, Suite 110, Columbia, SC 29210, within thirty (30) days after the service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service; except that the United States of America, if named, shall have sixty (60) days to answer after the service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service; and if you fail to do so, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the

YOU WILL ALSO TAKE NOTICE that under the provisions of S.C. Code Ann. § 29-3-100, effective June 16, 1993, any collateral assignment of rents contained in the referenced Mortgage is perfected and Attorney for Plaintiff hereby gives notice that all rents shall be payable directly to it by delivery to its undersigned attorneys from the date of default. In the alternative, Plaintiff will move before a judge of this Circuit on the 10th day after service hereof, or as soon thereafter as counsel may be heard, for an Order enforcing the assignment of rents, if any, and compelling payment of all rents covered by such assignment directly to the Plaintiff, which motion is to be based upon the original Note and Mortgage herein and the Complaint attached hereto.

LIS PENDENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT an action has been or will be commenced in this Court upon complaint of the above-named Plaintiff against the above-named Defendant(s) for the foreclosure of a certain mortgage of real estate given

by Robert A. England and Sonja G. England to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Amerigroup Mortgage Corporation dated March 21, 2002 and recorded on April 5, 2002 in Book 837 at Page 1842, in the Sumter County Registry (hereinafter, "Mortgage").

Thereafter, the Mortgage was transferred to the Plaintiff herein by assignment and/or corporate merger.

The premises covered and affected by the said Mortgage and by the foreclosure thereof were, at the time of the making thereof and at the time of the filing of this notice, more particularly described in the said Mortgage and are more commonly described as: THE LAND REFERRED TO IN THIS POLICY IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF SUMTER, AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: ALL THAT CERTAIN PIECE, PARCEL, OR LOT OF LAND, TOGETHER WITH THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, IF ANY, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE CITY AND COUNTY OF SUMTER, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, BEING SHOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT # 14, AS SHOWN ON THAT CERTAIN PLAT PREPARED BY JOSEPH R. EDWARDS, RLS, DATED MARCH 14, 1986, AND RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS FOR SUMTER COUNTY IN

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

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

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

Summons & Notice

Summons & Notice

PLAT BOOK 86 AT PAGE 320, AND HAVING SUCH METES AND BOUNDS AS ARE SHOWN ON SAID PLAT, THIS DESCRIPTION BEING IN LIEU OF METES AND BOUNDS AS PERMITTED UNDER SECTION 30-5-250 OF THE 1976 CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

787-9678, be and hereby is appointed Attorney for any unknown Defendants who are, or may be, in the Military Service of the United States of America and as such are entitled to the benefits of the Servicemember's Civil Relief Act aka Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act of 1940, and any amendments thereto, to represent and protect the interest of said Defendants,

This being the same property conveyed to Robert A. England by deed of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development of Washington, D.C. dated November 12, 1984 and reocrded November 12, 1984 in book 385 at page 443 in the records for Sumter County, South Carolina.

Thereafter, Robert A. England conveyed his interest to Robert A. England and Sonja G. England, as joint tenants, with right of survivorship, and not as tenants in common, be deed dated October 27, 1998 and recorded November 2, 1998 in book 722 at page 149 in the records for Sumter County, South Carolina.

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

Brock & Scott, PLLC 3800 Fernandina Road, Suite 110 Columbia, SC 29210 Phone 844-856-6646 Fax 803-454-3451 Attorneys for Plaintiff

TMS No. 2490102024

Estate Notice Sumter County

Property Address: 609 N Magnolia Street, Sumter, SC 29150

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES

NOTICE OF FILING COMPLAINT

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

TO THE DEFENDANTS ABOVE NAMED: YOU WILL PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the original Complaint, Cover Sheet for Civil Actions and Certificate of Exemption from ADR in the above entitled action was filed in the Office of the Clerk of Court for Sumter County on October 3, 2017. A Notice of Foreclosure Intervention was also filed in the Clerk of Court's Office.

ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM AND APPOINTMENT OF ATTORNEY It appearing to the satisfaction of the Court, upon reading the filed Petition for Appointment of Kelley Woody, Esquire as Guardian ad Litem for unknown minors, and persons who may be under a disability, and it appearing that Kelley Woody, Esquire has consented to said appointment.

Estate:/Rollie K. Jackson #2017ES4300722

Personal Representative Ellen B. Jackson 4760 Olivia Lane Pinewood, SC 29125

Estate:/Waddell Williams #2017ES4300725

FURTHER upon reading the filed Petition for Appointment of Kelley Woody, Esquire as Attorney for any unknown Defendants who may be in the Military Service of the United States of America, and may be, as such, entitled to the benefits of the Servicemember's Civil Relief Act, and any amendments thereto, and it appearing that Kelley Woody, Esquire has consented to act for and represent said Defendants, it is

Personal Representative Colette W. Terrell 1057 Crown Landing Pkwy McDonongh, GA 30252

Estate:/David L. Lee, Jr. #2017ES4300720

Personal Representative James T. Lee C/O A. Paul Weissenstein, Jr. Attorney at Law PO Box 2446 Sumter, SC 29151

ORDERED that Kelley Woody, Esquire, P.O. Box 6432, Columbia, SC 29260 phone (803) 787-9678, be and hereby is appointed Guardian ad Litem on behalf of all unknown minors and all unknown persons who may be under a disability, all of whom may have or claim to have some interest or claim to the real property commonly known as 609 N Magnolia Street, Sumter, South Carolina 29150; that she is empowered and directed to appear on behalf of and represent said Defendants, unless said Defendants, or someone on their behalf, shall within thirty (30) days after service of a copy hereof as directed, procure the appointment of Guardian or Guardians ad Litem for said Defendants.

Estate:/Vinia Gamble Williams #2017ES4300726

Personal Representative

AND IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Kelley Woody, Esquire, P.O. Box 6432, Columbia, SC 29260 phone (803)

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relief demanded in the Complaint.

TO MINOR(S) OVER FOURTEEN YEARS OF AGE, AND/OR TO MINOR(S) UNDER FOURTEEN YEARS OF AGE AND THE PERSON WITH WHOM THE MINOR(S) RESIDES, AND/OR TO PERSONS UNDER SOME LEGAL DISABILITY:

YOU WILL ALSO TAKE NOTICE that Plaintiff will move for an Order of Reference or the Court may issue a general Order of Reference of this action to a Master-in-Equity/Special Referee, pursuant to Rule 53 of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.

eight years.

But there were so many roads covered with ice. Parts of Interstate 95 from mile marker 77 around St. George south to the Georgia state line remained closed Thursday afternoon because of icy patches. Dozens of other roads remained treacherous, according to the DOT. Major roads less traveled were even worse.

And troopers warned any water from melted ice left behind after dark would refreeze as temperatures across the state again fell below freezing.

WEATHER, A10 Veronica S. Alletto Jacqueline L. Mesidor Catherine G. Brown Barbara B. McInnis Louis Davis Jr. Hulean M. Kinder

Summons & Notice

YOU ARE FURTHER SUMMONED AND NOTIFIED to apply for the appointment of a guardian ad litem within thirty (30) days after the service of this Summons and Notice upon you. If you fail to do so, application for such appointment will be made by Attorney for Plaintiff.

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after winter of snow day races.

Sumter may not have the rolling hills found in cities farther north, but one neighborhood road between Alice Drive Elementary School and Second Mill Pond was slanted enough for those barely broken-out speedsters to provide hours of entertainment the morning after a handful of inches of snow powdered, then iced, the area.

The Associated Press reported the largest snowfall — 8 inches — was found in Williamsburg County near Andrews but claimed areas around Sumter picked up 7 inches.

There were about 4 inches on the lawns lining the street where a group of kids were playing Thursday morning.

“I think it caught us all off guard,” said Robert Jones, whose two sons, Wyatt, 8, and Jeremiah, 12, were taking turns racing on

Pay Based on Experience Must have your own reliable transportation Location: Sumter, SC Requirements: 2+ years' experience installing new HVAC systems, preventative and general maintenance servicing systems, installing duct work, extensive troubleshooting, and HVAC knowledge. Please call (803)968-4718 if interested.

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L I F E O U T D O O R S F R O M WAT E R E E T O S A N T E E

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