Images Sumter, SC: 2012

2012 | imagessumterco.com 速

Sumter, south carolina

makes cents Penny for Progress program gets results

Atten-Hut Famed Third Army arrives sponsored by the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce and the sumter economic development board

2012 edition | volume 2 速

Sumter, South Carolina co nte nt s F e atu r e s 12 Atten-Hut Famed Third Army arrives

16 Play ball

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American Legion Baseball has been a Sumter staple for years

20 American Spirit, Global Edge Sumter County combines right ingredients for positive growth

24 makes cents Penny for Progress program gets results

26 all for one School district moves forward

d e pa r tm e nt s 8 Almanac 29 Biz Briefs 30 Chamber Report 31 Economic Profile 33 Image Gallery 37 Local Flavor 38 Arts & Culture 40 Health & Wellness 42 Education 44 Sports & Recreation 47 Community Profile 48 Through the Lens on the cover Patton Hall Photo by Antony Boshier

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Please recycle this magazine

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Sumter County Government sumter, south Carolina

County Government …

Where government for the people is depicted in sumter’s southern charm and hospitality, and sumter’s diverse opportunities through tourism. sumter also has various recreational activities and cultural venues for youth, young adults and mature adults. sumter is a short drive off interstate 95 at exit 135.

Come visit, tour and make Sumter your home.

Visit us at www.sumtercountysc.org or call the County Administration at (803) 436-2102.

What’s Online imagessumterco.com

Photos & Videos Visually explore Sumter in our online photo and video galleries

2012 | imaGessumterco.com ®

sumter, soutH carolina

makes cents Penny for Progress program gets results

Facts Get the most up-to-date info on cost of living, top employers, schools, population demographics and more

Living here Learn the basics about local neighborhoods, schools and health care providers

atten-Hut Famed Third Army arrives sponsored by tHe Greater sumter cHamber of commerce and tHe sumter economic development board

Digital magazine Flip through the pages of this magazine and easily share articles using Facebook, Twitter or email.

Whether you are in Sumter for a visit, a tour or a lifetime, www.sumterchamber.com is your resource for information.

32 E. Calhoun St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 775-1231 (803) 775-0915 chamber@sumterchamber.com www.sumterchamber.com

®

Serving Sumter, Shaw and Surrounding Areas Since 1954

Digital Edition

play ball american leGion baseball Has been a sumter staple for more tHan 80 years

SToRY BY cary estes

the sumter p-15 baseball team prays before a game at riley park.

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PHoTo CoURTeSY oF TANYA BoWMAN

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he joyful cry of “Play ball!” has resonated throughout Sumter every summer since 1929.

That was the year that the American Legion Baseball program fielded its first team in Sumter, sponsored by Post 15. More than eight decades later, P-15 continues to put together a team every year, making it the second-oldest continuous American Legion Baseball program in the nation.

“It’s a big thing in the city of Sumter,” says Jimmy Hodge, the P-15 Athletic Officer and chairman of the baseball committee that oversees the program. “It’s something the community really gets involved in.”

American Legion Baseball is comprised of amateur players, mainly high school students, ages 13 to 19.

There are approximately 5,000 teams throughout the

sumTer

nation. Regular-season games are held from around Memorial Day weekend through early July. That is followed by more than a month of playoff games and regional and national tournaments.

Hodge says the program is so popular in Sumter that P-15 fields two 18-player teams. “We have a junior team for the younger kids, because we have so many kids come out for the program,” Hodge says. “It’s like having a minor-league team for the varsity. It’s a good proving ground, and a way to get more kids involved in American Legion Baseball every summer.” tournaments Sumter usually plays host to at least one American Legion tournament every year. The city has been a i m Ag e s s u m T e r c o . c o m

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1081 Alice Dr. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 775-1201

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Almanac

Welcome to Sumter An introduction to the area’s people, places and events

Promoting Wellness, Having Fun

Photo Courtesy of the Sumter Development Board

Saluting the Troops

A YMCA was first formed in Sumter in 1890, and the organization's first building in the area was constructed in 1911. Today, the Sumter YMCA is offering more than ever, thanks to a dedicated group of members, employees, volunteers and supporters.

Members can enjoy a full-service fitness center, as well as an array of group fitness classes, including Zumba, indoor cycling, boot camps, yoga, water aerobics and more.

Childcare is available, as well as athletic programs and leagues open to kids and adults of all ages.

To learn more about the Sumter YMCA, go to www.ymcasumter.org.

Sumter has been home to the Shaw Air Force Base since 1941. The base houses the Air Force’s largest combat F-16 wing – the 20th Fighter Wing – whose mission is to provide, project and sustain combat-ready air forces.

The base also includes Headquarters 9th Air Force and U.S. Air Forces Central, who works to project decisive air and space power for U.S. Central Command and America.

To salute the men and women stationed at the base, the city of Sumter organizes the Sumter-Shaw Street Fest. The event, considered the largest free party in the region, includes musical performances, games, food and more.

Learn more about Shaw Air Force Base at www.shaw.af.mil.

Fired Up The University of South Carolina Sumter's Fire Ants are thriving. The school features men's baseball, soccer and basketball, as well as women's softball, soccer and basketball.

All teams compete in Region X of the National Junior College Athletic Association, which includes schools in the Carolinas, Virginia and West Virginia.

Locals can enjoy games throughout the year, with home baseball and softball games taking place at Riley Park and Palmetto Park, respectively, and basketball and soccer games held on the school's campus.

For additional information, check out www.uscsumter.edu/fireants.

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Located in the High Hills of Santee, Poinsett State Park offers beautiful views, fishing, hunting, equestrian events and mountain biking. Hiking is also a frequented pastime by those who visit the area, as the park's trail system connects to the Palmetto Trail.

Poinsett State Park, which opened in 1936, is known for its interesting botanical aspects; visitors can see a variety of unusual combinations, such as mountain laurel adorned with Spanish moss.

The park was named after South Carolina native Joel Roberts Poinsett, an amateur botanist and the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico. It was Poinsett who brought the poinsettia plant to the U.S.

Photo Courtesy of Rob Pongsajapan

Park It

Above Par Home to a variety of courses open throughout the year, Sumter is an ideal place for golf enthusiasts. In total, there are four courses in Sumter County, and more than 20 others within an hour's drive.

The area includes notable courses such as Beech Creek Golf Club and Sunset Country Club, both of which are regarded as challenging. Another local favorite is Crystal Lake Golf Course, an 18-hole municipal course that can hold its own next to almost any private facility.

The only island green in the area can be found at The Links at Lakewood, which was awarded 3.5 stars

by Golf Digest.

Play on at Patriot Park Located off Patriot Parkway on General Drive, Patriot Park Sportsplex opened in 2008 and was funded by the community’s Penny for Progress tax initiative. The spacious athletic amenity features state-of-the-art soccer and softball fields that are ready for tournament play.

Along with Palmetto and Dillon parks, it has helped to establish Sumter as one of the most important venues in the region for youth sports tournaments.

For more information, contact the Sumter County Recreation & Parks Department at (803) 436-2248.

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10 Gardens

Where Inspiration Grows

JAPANESE GARDENS AT LAKE SACAJAWEA Longview, WA WATER GARDEN Fort Worth, TX TYLER MUNICIPAL ROSE GARDEN Tyler, TX SWAN LAKE IRIS GARDENS Sumter, SC CHEYENNE BOTANIC GARDENS Cheyenne, WY CINNAMON CREEK TROPICAL BUTTERFLY GARDEN Boerne, TX

Sumter made the list.

10 Gardens to Inspire See more Top 10 lists at Livability.com.

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIASANTA CRUZ ARBORETUM Santa Cruz, CA WICHITA GARDENS-BOTANICA Wichita, KS DANIEL STOWE BOTANICAL GARDEN Gastonia, NC CAPE FEAR BOTANICAL GARDEN Fayetteville, NC

Introducing the Livability.com Top 10 Lists New lists every month | Not your average lists | Not your average website

Fast Facts n Pro basketball player Ray Allen attended high school in Sumter County, where he led Hillcrest High School to a state championship.

Make a Racket With a Racquet Palmetto Tennis Center is one of the largest public tennis centers in all of South Carolina.

The complex includes 24 courts, 18 of which are lit for night play.

Six of the courts feature allweather, deco-turf surfaces. There are three on-site tennis pros who offer lessons and group clinics.

In addition, the facility has locker rooms with showers, two ball machines, a stringing service and pro shop. The center is the site of many tournaments, including pro events. Best of all, general use of the courts is free.

n Citadel Cadet George Edward “Tuck” Haynsworth, who fired the first shot of the Civil War, was born, raised and is buried in Sumter. n The Iris Festival, held every May at Swan Lake Iris Gardens, is a multiple winner of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast award, and is South Carolina’s oldest continuing festival.

Sumter At A Glance population (2010 estimate) Sumter: 40,524 Sumter County: 107,456

community. The opening of Shaw Air Force Base in 1941 gave the area an economic boost and growth spurt.

location Sumter is located in the Midlands region of South Carolina, approximately 45 miles east of Columbia, the state capital.

for more information Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce 32 E. Calhoun St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 775-1231 www.sumterchamber.com

beginnings The city of Sumter was incorporated in 1845, starting out as an agricultural

n The electric refrigerator was invented by Sumter native Charles T. Mason, Jr. n Sumter is named for General Thomas Sumter, the “Fighting Gamecock” of the American Revolution and one of the models for Mel Gibson’s character in the 2000 film The Patriot.

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Rembert 401

Oakland

Columbia

Mayesville

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SUMTER Sumter

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Pocalla Springs

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n Sumter was the first city in the U.S. to adopt the councilmanager form of government, now used as the nation’s standard. n Sumter is home to country music star Lee Brice.

Pinewood Rimini 521

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L. Marion

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ATTEN-HUT: Third Army Arrives Relocation from Atlanta to Shaw Air Force Base Hailed

Story By M.V. Greene Photography By antony boshier

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he famed Third Army has made its way to Sumter.

One of the world’s renowned fighting forces completed its relocation Sept. 15 from Fort McPherson in Atlanta to Sumter and Shaw Air Force Base. The Third Army’s historic transition to Sumter, which included the relocation of 1,000 soldiers, 200 civilians and contractors and their families, was recommended by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission in 2005.

The multimillion dollar relocation was achieved much with the same precision that defines a military operation, according to Col. Robert G. Young, Third Army Deputy Chief of Staff for Relocation.

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Relocation Like a Military Operation “The Army moves to locations all the time and sets up operations.

So we approached it as a military operation,” Young says. “We did it with military planning and procedures. So, consequently, it was orderly as you might expect.

It’s not the same as moving into Afghanistan or Iraq, but it was done in a deliberate and orderly fashion.”

The Third Army within U.S. Army Forces Central Command serves as the Army’s longest continuously deployed warfighting headquarters, operating from distinct locations that include Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan.

More than 31,000 forces are assigned or attached to the Third Army worldwide, providing aide

to its missions in support of the nation’s defense.

The Third Army’s new Main Command Post, led by Lt. Gen. Vincent K. Brooks, is located at Patton Hall at Shaw. The 320,000-square-foot building was constructed at a cost of more than $100 million to support the relocation, providing logistics and support for Third Army ground troops in theater. The unit celebrated an official welcoming to Shaw in June 2011, which included an uncasing ceremony at Patton Hall, named for the legendary World War II-era Gen. George S. Patton.

Fanfare from Sumter Community The relocation to Sumter was greeted in the community with

Patton Hall, the location of the Third Army’s new Main Command Post

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What’s Online For more about the industries that impact Sumter’s economy, visit imagessumterco.com.

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great fanfare as the South Carolina town of more than 40,000 residents is expected to receive an immediate economic impact. The Third Army staff in Sumter includes a large number of officers above the rank of major, including at least two generals and more than 50 colonels, and noncommissioned officers above the rank of master sergeant.

As part of the relocation effort, Sumter officials traveled to the Fort McPherson garrison in March 2010 where they hosted a Sumter Strategic Relocation Expo, providing information to Third Army personnel and their families to help educate them about the community and its assets. The event showcased Sumter resources, including health care, senior services, recreation and public safety.

In his remarks at the welcoming, Brooks says the Third Army would work closely with the local community as a neighbor. Young noted that many Third Army personnel already were familiar with the region through training at nearby Fort Jackson, about 40 miles to the west in the area of the capital of Columbia.

Local Leadership Praised “Sumter is a very pro-military, patriotic community. There are wholesome activities with local leadership with vision and determination to make it even better,” Young says.

A 32-year veteran of the Army, Young added that the relocation means the Sumter area can expect a long partnership with the Third Army going forward.

“It represents a commitment by the Department of Defense to Shaw and the surrounding area in its longevity,” he says.

Clockwise from top left: Patton Hall; A Patton tank on display; A World War II Army-era uniform worn by Capt. Thomas J. Quirk III of the Third Army

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Photo Courtesy of Tanya Bowman

The Sumter P-15 baseball team prays before a game at Riley Park.

Play Ball American Legion Baseball has been a Sumter staple for more than 80 years

Story By Cary Estes

T

he joyful cry of “Play ball!” has resonated throughout Sumter every summer since 1929.

That was the year that the American Legion Baseball program fielded its first team in Sumter, sponsored by Post 15. More than eight decades later, P-15 continues to put together a team every year, making it the second-oldest continuous American Legion Baseball program in the nation.

“It’s a big thing in the city of Sumter,” says Jimmy Hodge, the P-15 Athletic Officer and chairman of the baseball committee that oversees the program. “It’s something the community really gets involved in.”

American Legion Baseball is comprised of amateur players, mainly high school students, ages 13 to 19.

There are approximately 5,000 teams throughout the

nation. Regular-season games are held from around Memorial Day weekend through early July. That is followed by more than a month of playoff games and regional and national tournaments.

Hodge says the program is so popular in Sumter that P-15 fields two 18-player teams. “We have a junior team for the younger kids, because we have so many kids come out for the program,” Hodge says. “It’s like having a minor-league team for the varsity. It’s a good proving ground, and a way to get more kids involved in American Legion Baseball every summer.”

Tournaments Sumter usually plays host to at least one American Legion tournament every year. The city has been a i m ag e s s u m t e r c o . c o m

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Go Yankees!

Antony Boshier

Bobby Richardson, a Sumter native and supporter of American Legion Baseball, played for the New York Yankees from 1955-1966.

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Antony Boshier

regular site for the annual Southeast Regional Tournament, which features state champions from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Puerto Rico.

Tournament organizers have estimated that more than 1,000 people arrive in Sumter for the Southeast Regional. Approximately 350 motel room nights are required, with a total financial impact to the community of more than $500,000 in retail sales.

“Our local merchants gain from it, and it also benefits us in terms of recognition,” Hodge says.

“It’s good for the image of the city.”

Photo Courtesy of the City of Sumter

Riley Park Games in Sumter are played at historic Riley Park, a quaint 2,000-seat facility that was built in 1934 and was once the home park of the minor-league Sumter Braves. A recent renovation of the stadium included the installation of oversized fans that Hodge says keeps spectators comfortable throughout the warm summer evenings.

“It’s like a ballpark with air conditioners,” Hodge says. “A lot of nights it’s cool enough under those fans for people to put on a jacket.

The city does a tremendous job keeping up the park for us. They keep making it better and better, not only for the players but for the fans.”

Bobby Richardson One of the regular fans in attendance is Bobby Richardson, a Sumter native who played for the New York Yankees from 1955 through 1966.

“Bobby is a big supporter of American Legion Baseball,” Hodge says. “He helps in a lot of ways.

He’s always there to offer good advice. And if there’s anybody who’s qualified to give a player or the coaching staff some good advice, it’s Bobby. He has nothing but positive things to say about this program.”

Top left and right: Bobby Richardson memorabilia Bottom: A game at Riley Park

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American Spirit, Global Edge Sumter County combines the right ingredients for positive growth

Story By Betsy Williams | Photography By antony boshier

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umter County has perfected its recipe for successful economic growth, with the correct measurements of a skilled workforce, reliable infrastructure, transportation arteries, low costs, available property and pro-active leadership. The result? The largest project in Sumter County history and a steady, positive recovery in existing industry job numbers.

The big news for Sumter County is the October 2011 announcement that Continental Tire would bring 1,600 jobs and a $500 million investment to the community.

“Over the lifespan of the agreement inked between the

company and the community, Continental Tire will help the community in so many ways, from payroll to increased revenue for local governments and schools,” says Jay Schwedler, president and CEO of the Sumter Development Board. “The company plans to be producing tires here in Sumter by the middle of 2013. At more than $500 million, this is the largest capital investment Sumter County has ever seen, and roughly 10 times the size of the previous largest project. With more than 1,600 guaranteed jobs coming, Continental Tire will quickly become a major player and contributor to the entire region.”

Kaydon employees inspect and assemble bearings at its Sumter facility.

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Kaydon, a bearing manufacturer, has invested more than $8 million in a series of expansions in Sumter.

While winning the Continental Tire project in a very competitive national search is big news, it isn’t the only project that’s been cooking in Sumter County.

Existing Industries in Growth Mode “We took some losses in the early 2000s, mostly from companies deciding to migrate toward lower labor costs,” Schwedler says, noting that since then, empty buildings 22

Sumter

have sold to new and existing industries. “The good news is we’ve stabilized and have begun to reverse those trends. Over the past year our existing industries have created more than 450 new jobs, and when you combine those with the new announcements and expansions, we had a net gain of about 650 jobs. That’s not only progress, it’s tremendous progress for a community that lost jobs year in and year out for nearly a decade.”

New and expanding companies are breathing new life into vacant buildings, with projects including Au’Some Candies, which will begin production in 2012 with 120 new jobs, and Sykes Corporation, which started as a 150-job announcement in 2009 and is now using the Sumter call center as their model facility with 950 employees. Then there’s Kaydon, which has ramped up its Sumter workforce to about 400 employees, investing more than $40 million in

All men are created equal … then they get dressed.

a series of expansions.

“The area is very supportive of its industrial partners, and the leadership provides tremendous help at the local and state levels, helping us to be successful,” says Al Hubbard, plant manager at Kaydon Plant 12 and a Sumter native. “The education systems are willing to do what it takes to develop the potential workforce, and you’ve got the people in the area who are very committed to doing a good job.”

Sumter’s Can-Do Attitude Schwedler credits the success to the community’s “American Spirit, Global Edge” can-do approach to business. “We have a great community that has proven time and again that we are among the best at taking care of our businesses. When you couple that with the strength of our military assets in the region, and specifically with regard to our partners at Shaw Air Force Base, we are an attractive place to call home.”

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It Just Makes Cents Penny for Progress program gets positive results

Story By Kevin Litwin Photography By antony boshier

P

enny for your thoughts? Sumter County officials are making pennies stretch a long way thanks to a Penny for Progress program.

The Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce first brought the idea for the program to the County Council, and in 2008 voters approved a temporary one-cent tax increase that will be removed in May 2016 or when $75 million is collected, whichever comes first. The $75 million is going toward 16 major improvement projects occurring throughout the community, including construction of a rural fire station, traffic intersection improvements and purchasing critical land that borders Shaw Air Force Base.

The formal name of the initiative is the Sumter County Capital Projects Sales Tax, but it mostly goes by the nickname of Penny for Progress. The 16 projects are being overseen by the Sumter County Administrator and the County Council, and is managed by a team of experienced project coordinators.

The Chamber of Commerce remains a large supporter of the program and raised money to hire Penny for Progress campaign manager Chris Caison.

The Patriot Park Athletic Complex and Activities Center was among the first projects to be completed and has already proven to be a benefit to Sumter County.

“Patriot Park’s baseball, softball, soccer and football fields can host regional tournaments that will draw visitors from throughout the Southeast,” says Caison.

“Those visitors will spend money in our community at hotels, restaurants, stores and gas stations to bolster our economy.”

Civic Pride Caison says more than 3,500 young people in Sumter County now access Patriot Park for sports, plus the complex also has walking paths and green space.

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“Meanwhile, another completed project is vast improvements to the Sumter County Civic Center, formerly known as the Exhibition Center,” he says.

“Several beautification upgrades have occurred, which is good news around here. Those improvements have been needed for many years.”

Specific upgrades to the Civic Center included replacing the HVAC system, improving the parking lot and fencing, renovating restrooms, installing new carpet in conference rooms and improving the sound system.

“It is the only facility in the county large enough to hold graduations and other big events,” Caison says.

“Now it is a showpiece of the community once again.”

All Fired Up Besides Patriot Park and the Civic Center, another key Penny for Progress project is the construction of a rural fire station to serve residents in Cherryvale, Dabbs, Wedgefield, Dalzell, Bethel, Pinewood, Rembert, Concord, Horatio, Oswego, Graham, Pleasant Grove, Mayesville, DuBose, Byrd and 521 South.

In addition, another project will feature sidewalks constructed to connect schools and neighborhoods, plus multiple improvements will be made to the intersection of Lafayette Drive, North Main Street and Highway 378 – the single most congested intersection in all of Sumter.

Also, a new $20 million judicial center will allow Sumter County to handle a per capita docket on par with Columbia and Greenville, while road infrastructure improvements at Airport Industrial Park will allow the city and county to better compete for industrial and economic development prospects.

“Penny for Progress is a big project but well worth it,” Caison says. “There are many positives that will result from this effort.”

What’s Online For more information about the Sumter County Penny for Progress program, visit the website at www.pennyforprogress.com.

Patriot Park (top) and the new fire station in Wedgefield (bottom) are two of the projects made possible by the Penny for Progress program.

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All for One School district moves forward in first year of consolidation

Story By Kevin Litwin Photography By antony boshier

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t took 25 years and the South Carolina Legislature to accomplish it, but two former Sumter County public school districts are now one.

Sumter School District was officially established in July 2011 following the consolidation of the former Sumter School District Two and Sumter School District 17. A total of 17,000 students make up the new unified district.

“Things are going well so far, but like any other merger, there are some obstacles and issues that need to be worked out,” says Randolph Bynum, Sumter School District superintendent. “But I have visited every school and am impressed with the quality of teachers and learning that is occurring, and we’ll be taking the best teaching practices and making them available throughout the district.”

No School Falls Behind Bynum says the consolidation ensures that all schools in Sumter County get the same basic funding, with no school falling behind due to revenue collection issues.

“We are taking the strengths in resources and human capital from the two districts and combining them positively into one,” he says. “The result will be improved student achievement and raising the county’s overall quality of life, which could result in new industries taking a look at Sumter for future business ventures. In fact, one of my goals is to have many of our graduates eventually work for international companies, with some of those companies hopefully based in Sumter some day.”

Eight Years a Soldier Bynum has been an academic advocate for decades, with 26 years of education experience that included serving as associate superintendent for high schools

in Atlanta for three years prior to the Sumter County appointment. He also spent eight years in the United States Army, which can be advantageous in this community that is home to Shaw Air Force Base, which includes the Third Army, 9th Air Force and USCENTAF. Bynum, who signed a three-year contract to be district superintendent, also arrived with a strong reputation for turning around and improving student achievement scores in every school and district where he worked in the past.

“We are all stakeholders in our children’s future, so I want to develop an effective community relations initiative for Sumter School District that provides current, timely internal and external communication through district publications and communication venues,” he says. “We need to keep the public updated and seek their feedback on how we can get better.”

Increasing Morale Bynum says he also wants to create and coordinate programs to increase employee and student morale, and insists that principals and assistant principals must conduct four to six classroom visits per month. He also wants to establish a not-for-profit Sumter Education Foundation to ensure that all students are prepared to live, work and compete in tomorrow’s challenging workplace.

“All donations to the Foundation would go directly back into the schools,” he says. “They would offer the greatest amount of assistance to the teachers, in order to provide better instruction for the students. That’s what it’s all about.”

Clockwise from top: A teacher assists students with their work at Alice Drive Middle School; Randolph Bynum, Sumter School District superintendent; Cherryvale Elementary School

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Business

Biz Briefs Businesses – both large and small – that help define sumter’s economic climate

Scorecard Business At A Glance

$1.6 billion Annual retail sales

$21,378 Retail sales per capita

SIMPSON HARDWARE Biz: Hardware store Buzz: As part of the ACE Hardware franchise, Simpson Hardware sells its fair share of tools, paints and household supplies. But Simpson goes above and beyond your usual hardware store, carrying hunting and fishing supplies, sports gear and footwear, and even outdoorsy apparel brands including classics such as Carhartt and Woolrich and trendsetters like Under Armour and the North Face. www.simpsonhardwareinc.com

THOMPSON CONSTRUCTION GROUP AND INDUSTRIAL SERVICES Biz: Construction Buzz: Established in 1986 and headquartered in Sumter, Thompson is a group of privately held companies that provide a variety of industrial services to the Southeast.

Companies under the Thompson umbrella include Thompson Construction Group, TiGroup and Thompson HVAC. www.thompsonsoutheast.com

Art Bradham Biz: Accounting Buzz: Too busy to deal with the mess of money? Not a problem; Sumter residents can leave the less glamorous side to professional Art Bradham.

A CPA-certified accountant, Bradham specializes in solving tax problems as well as traditional preparation services and business valuations. www.artbadham.com

BRICK STREET Biz: Coffee shop/cafe Buzz: When in need of caffeine, Sumter locals can get their fix at Brick Street. The revamped coffee shop serves a mix of cafe classics. Coffee and espresso-based drinks may be its claim to fame, but guests can also stop in for a quick breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack or just to relax.

Events and live performances often take place at night on the Brick Street stage. www.brickstreetofsumter.com

$96 million Annual hotel and food sales

3,275 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

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Business

Chamber Report Chamber celebrating 100 years in 2012

G

rier Blackwelder says the mission of the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce is the same in 2012 as it was when the chamber was established in 1912.

“It’s kind of amazing but back in 1912, the chamber grew out of a Board of Labor whose main focus back then was to attract jobs to the community and employ more

people,” says Blackwelder, Greater Sumter Chamber president.

“Forward to 2012, and that’s pretty much the same key issue facing not only our chamber but all chambers throughout the country.”

In 2012, as the Greater Sumter Chamber turns 100, celebrations will occur throughout the year beginning with a gala celebration

at the chamber’s annual spring membership meeting.

“There will be a lot of remembrances throughout the year,” says Nancy Lee Zimpleman, chamber vice president of membership development. “We are a chamber of 950 members, and we hope they all get involved in the celebrations.”

Blackwelder says the chamber has a lot to be proud of during its long history. That includes Sumter becoming the first community in the country to enact a councilmanager form of government.

“The chamber was a big backer of that effort,” he says. “A paid manager runs the day-to-day operations and oversees personnel in Sumter, and there are now 2,800 communities in the U.S. operating with that same council-manager form of government. But Sumter was the first.”

8,500 Industrial Jobs He adds that the chamber can be proud of forming a Sumter Development Board years ago that works to attract industry to the community, and has brought 8,500 industrial jobs to Sumter over the last 40 years and continues to help businesses relocate and expand in our community.

“The chamber has also been involved with a bond referendum to improve schools, a half-penny sales tax to improve the library, and a Penny for Progress project that targets $75 million toward civic improvements – including construction of a $20 million judicial center,” Blackwelder says. “We’ve had an interesting history in our 100 years and will be recognizing much of it throughout 2012.”

Zimpleman says the celebratory events will be posted on the sumterchamber.com website, which was recently relaunched with a fresh look.

– Kevin Litwin

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Sumter

Economic overview Sumter’s location, along with its expanding industries, a thriving retail environment and one of the largest health care systems in the state, will allow the area to continue to grow and prosper.

TAXES

8%

7%

Graduate Degree

City Sales and Use Tax

7%

County Sales Tax

6% MAJOR EMPLOYERS Shaw Air Force Base 6,866 Pilgrim’s Pride 2,210 Tuomey Healthcare System 1,544

State Sales Tax

2.5%-7% State Income Tax

WORKFORCE

70%

Sumter School District

White-Collar Jobs

2,700

30%

INCOME

Blue-Collar Jobs

$21,704

EDUCATION

Per Capita Income

$46,004 Average Annual Household Expenditure

27%

Associate Degree

12%

Bachelor’s Degree

ECONOMIC RESOURCES Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce 32 E. Calhoun St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 775-1231 chamber@sumterchamber.com www.sumterchamber.com City of Sumter 21 N. Main St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 436-2500 info@sumter-sc.com www.sumter-sc.com Sumter County 13 E. Canal St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 436-2102 www.sumtercountysc.org helpdesk@sumtercountysc.org Sumter Economic Development Board 32 E. Calhoun St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 418-0700, (800) 888-7926 www.sumteredge.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

&

Rebecca B. Compton, ASID, CKD

CUSTOM CABINETRY

D E S I G N

(803) 774-0406

B AT H

NCIDQ Certificate #9127

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K I T C H E N

economic profile

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Sumter

Image Gallery

Second Millpond Photo by Antony Boshier

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Sumter County Museum Photo by Todd Bennett

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Sumter

Image Gallery

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Locally Owned and Operated for 60 Years

Serving You at theSe LocationS: 114 e. calhoun St. 803.775.4712 1455 S. guignard Pkwy. (hwy. 15 S.) 803.778.5752 1011 Broad St. 803.773.6011 343 Pinewood rd.

803.773.2370 36 Sunset Dr. Manning, Sc 803.433.2118

Antony Boshier

Local Flavor

Hugh’s shrimp and grits from Café on Main

Flavorful Options Find Your Favorite Foods in Local Restaurants

H

ungry diners in Sumter don’t need to look far for great food choices. Sumter offers a wide variety of restaurants with something to please every palate.

Deli and order from a menu filled with sandwiches, subs and tasty salads.

Cafés, Diners, Delis

All-American Hot Dogs, International Cuisine

Café on Main features a selection of soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts.

Order Hugh’s shrimp and grits or the grilled pastrami and Swiss melt with a cup of Low Country gumbo. Menus change weekly, so there’s always something new to try. Brick Street Café, located near Central Carolina Technical College’s downtown campus, offers an eclectic mix of coffeehouse-style drinks, breakfast items to-go, lunch favorites, desserts and live music.

A combination of café and bakery, Baker’s Sweets features a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches and baked goods such as red velvet cake, turtle cheesecake and much more.

Stop at Guignard Diner and try the homemade fried chicken or beef stew, or drop by Mary Ann’s

Duncan Dogs specializes in a classic, All-American favorite: hot dogs. Chili dogs, kraut dogs, Chicago-style dogs and spicy sausage dogs can all be found at Duncan, along with a variety of sides and homemade desserts.

Rascal’s adds a list of signature salads, sandwiches and burgers to its extensive hot dog menu.

Not a meat eater? Try Rascal’s veggie burger, with a choice of more than 20 different toppings.

If you’re in the mood for something south-of-the-border, stop at Angel’s Mexican Restaurant for some freshly prepared fajitas, enchiladas or burritos. Angel’s offers a wide selection of Mexican menu favorites at two convenient Sumter locations.

Go to Kobe Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar for

flavorsome Far East favorites.

Enjoy one of Kobe’s freshly prepared sushi selections or order from the extensive menu of dishes cooked on traditional Japanese hibachi grills.

Fine Dining Two fine dining establishments are located in Sumter. The Imperial, an 11,000-square-foot building with luxurious leather booths, rich wooden trim and an intimate lounge area, serves a mix of sumptuous dishes, including oysters Rockefeller, fresh jumbo crab cakes, filet mignon and slowroasted prime rib. The Imperial also features a fresh seafood buffet every Friday night and live music events on the weekends throughout the year.

Offering a seasonally inspired menu made with fresh local ingredients, Hamptons serves a variety of decadent selections including sautéed Carolina shrimp with fettuccine, pan-seared Peking duck, beef tenderloin and more.

– Barbara Biehler i m ag e s s u m t e r c o . c o m

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Antony Boshier

Arts & Culture

Art by Thomas Whichard at Patriot Hall

Keeping Culture Seekers Entertained The possibilities are nearly endless in this history-rich area

S

umter, S.C., residents and visitors can find an array of family-friendly cultural activities throughout the community.

History buffs, theater fanatics, festival goers and those who love outdoor attractions can all find something to enjoy.

Art and Theater Need a little artistic inspiration?

Browse artwork by locally and nationally renowned artists at the Sumter County Gallery of Art. The gallery offers free tours by reservation and a gift shop filled with one-of-a-kind gifts and decorative items. Art classes

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Sumter

are available for kids, teens and adults in several different media, from pottery to basket-making.

Patriot Hall is a performing arts facility that is host to performances by local actors and musicians, cultural events and conventions. Tours of Patriot Hall, which includes a 1,000-seat auditorium, meeting rooms and more, can be arranged.

The Sumter Little Theatre offers a variety of plays and musicals for all ages.

Performances are held at the Sumter County Cultural Center.

The nonprofit group includes a youth theater, which allows

children to participate in all aspects of stage performance, including set building, costumes, makeup and acting.

Festivals Galore Sumter County citizens sure know how to throw a party – and they do it often. Sumter’s longrunning Iris Festival is held every May and features a flower show, crowning of the Iris Festival king and queen, concerts and more.

Sponsored by Central Carolina Technical College, a concert series called Fridays at the Plaza offers musical entertainment from May through September on the third

Friday of the month. The event takes place from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. at Rotary Centennial Plaza and includes a wide range of music, from jazz grooves to contemporary tunes.

In September, the Sumter Shaw Street Fest salutes the men and women stationed at nearby Shaw Air Force Base with a huge street festival. From April through October, people flock to downtown Sumter toting lawn chairs for Sumter @ Six, a monthly lineup of live bands, food vendors and good old-fashioned fun. Each October, downtown Sumter hosts the Halloween on Main festival for costumed kids and pets.

Come November, it’s time for Accessibility, an annual exhibition of public art. December finds Sumter celebrating the holiday season with the Swan Lake Fantasy of Lights, the largest free Christmas light display in the state, and the Sumter Poinsettia Festival featuring a drive-through nativity, visits from Santa and live local entertainment.

and Japanese magnolias. The floral wonderland is visited by more than 250,000 people annually and has become a haven for wildlife.

Sumter County Museum Love history? Sumter County has a rich 300-year heritage you can relive with a visit to the Sumter County Museum complex. It is home to a collection of historic structures, more than 108,000 artifacts, and re-enactors who bring the county’s heritage to life.

The museum campus includes the 1916 Williams-Brice House, the Genealogical and Historical Research Center, the Heritage Education Center, the Carolina Backcountry Homestead and the beautiful Martha Brice Gardens.

The Carolina Backcountry Homestead hosts periodic living history events and includes a log cabin, smokehouse, barn, commissary, loomhouse, outhouse, blacksmith shop and gardens.

– Jessica Mozo

Local Landmarks The Sumter Opera House on Main Street is often called the crown jewel of downtown Sumter.

The historic opera house has been entertaining crowds in Sumter County since it was built in the 1890s. Today the restored building houses City Hall as well as city departments and offices. The first-floor auditorium, decorated in the Art Deco style, hosts local and national acts ranging from concerts and theater to dance and classic films. The opera house’s 100-foot clock tower atop the RichardsonRomanesque style building is visible from much of downtown.

Bask in the beauty of nature at Sumter’s Swan Lake Iris Gardens, the only public park in the United States that features all eight swan species. The shiny black waters of Swan Lake provide a striking backdrop for its many islands bursting with colorful irises, camellias, azaleas, day lilies

Indoor Heated Pool GYM Free HOT Breakfast

Walking distance to: IHOP (open 24 hours) Applebee’s Logan’s Roadhouse Chili’s Outback Steakhouse

2491 Broad St. • Sumter, SC 29150 Directly behind Applebee’s and IHOP (803) 469-6666 • (803) 469-6667 fax www.countryinns.com/sumtersc

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Health & Wellness

Aiming for Good Health Sumter’s Tuomey Healthcare System provides first-rate services

S

umter residents’ health care is in good hands. Served by Tuomey Healthcare System’s first-rate, 301-bed hospital, locals enjoy comprehensive care under the convenience of one roof.

Tuomey Regional Medical Center serves patients in every stage of life, from an infant’s first breath to end-of-life hospice care. Accredited by the Joint Commission, it provides more than 1,500 jobs, making it the largest non-industrial employer in the county. More than 150 physicians practice there.

40

Sumter

Women’s Services Tuomey’s James E. Bell Jr. Women and Infants Pavilion was added to the hospital campus in 2007 to better serve women and babies. The $23.6 million, 18,000-square-foot facility has 24 cozy inpatient rooms decorated to make patients feel at home, with comfortable furniture and ample space for in-room treatment and examinations.

The nursery system includes four separate nurseries capable of treating high-risk newborns who

need to stay at Tuomey for extended periods of time. The Bell Women and Infants Pavilion also has high-risk incubators and customizable baby stations, breast-feeding rooms and lactation consultants, and wrist and ankle monitors for mothers and babies to ensure their security.

Baby Central features a slew of labor and delivery suites featuring large windows, rocking chairs and extra-large baths and showers to make patients’ stays as comfortable as possible.

Antony Boshier

Tuomey Healthcare System

Advanced Cancer Technology Tuomey is known for the latest advances in cancer care and offers a Cancer Treatment Center with the most advanced radiation therapy technology available.

Radiation oncologists at the Cancer Treatment Center provide intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), a cutting-edge treatment few hospitals in the state provide.

In 2004, Tuomey added a new Outpatient Surgery Center with four operating rooms, one procedure room and 20 preand post-operative beds to give Sumter County residents more convenience, greater comfort and the latest in technological advancements. The Outpatient Surgery Center is located in front of the main hospital and provides

a covered, all-weather access for patients.

One of the Outpatient Surgery Center’s most impressive features is its HERMES voice control system for networking medical equipment.

The FDA-approved system gives surgeons direct control over surgical devices using simple verbal commands, which contributes to efficiency and accuracy during surgical procedures.

Long-term Care When living at home proves too difficult for elderly or terminally ill Sumter residents, they and their families have plenty of options.

Hopewell Healthcare Center, NHC Healthcare and Sumter East Health & Rehab Center are just a few of the county’s long-term care facilities.

– Jessica Mozo

301 Number of beds

1,500 Number of jobs provided by Tuomey Regional Medical Center

150+ Number of physicians

2007 Year James E. Bell Jr. Women and Infants Pavilion was added

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photos by Antony Boshier

Education

Think Outside the Box Strong private schools, higher education options available

G

o to the head of the class if you think good educational opportunities are available to students in Sumter County.

Parents who prefer a private or faith-based education for their children can find it at many area schools, while high school graduates can further their education without leaving the area by attending one of Sumter County’s higher education options. Here are some examples:

Private Schools Some of the top private schools in Sumter County include Sumter Christian School, which was founded in 1974 and enjoys a reputation for balanced excellence on a community, state and even national level; and St. Anne Catholic School,

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Sumter

which teaches pre-K through eighth grade students who strive to become empowered learners and active citizens.

Other top private schools in the area include St. Francis Xavier High School, Sumter Academy, Thomas Sumter Academy and Wilson Hall. Westside Christian Academy accommodates students in grades one through eight and is a ministry of Westside Baptist Church, and the goal of the staff is to work closely with parents in every aspect to train the whole child.

Higher Education The good academic options include Central Carolina Technical College, a comprehensive, public two-year institution that confers associate degrees, diplomas and

certificates; and Morris College, a historically black, coeducational liberal arts college operated by the Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention of South Carolina. Also available to college students in the region is the University of South Carolina Sumter, which offers a full range of programs from associate degrees through graduate programs.

Meanwhile, students living at Shaw Air Force Base can also easily access a college education.

Saint Leo University, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, the University of Phoenix and Webster University all have course and degree programs at the base.

Troy University has a community campus in Sumter County. – Jessica Mozo

From far left: Students at Morris College’s Forensics Center; Anderson Library at The University of South Carolina Sumter

Outdoor Fantasy

Antony Boshier

Get fit and have fun in Sumter

44

Sumter

Sports & Recreation

O

utdoor lovers will brag about Sumter County’s recreation options. With 24 parks offering boating, birding, hiking, biking, fishing and horseback riding, the city proves that you can get healthier while having fun outside.

And for tennis players, there’s the Palmetto Tennis Center, which has 24 lighted courts for night play and offers group clinics and private lessons.

its abundant supply of bass, catfish and crappie.

Fishing is also a favorite activity at Manchester State Forest’s four ponds and many creeks. Other popular places to enjoy the outdoors include Poinsett State Park, High Hills of the Santee Passage, Woods Bay State Natural Area and Lynches River.

Golf Courses Notable golf courses in Sumter include Crystal Lakes Public Golf Course and the Sunset Country Club. The private Sunset CC was founded in 1922 and features 18 holes at par 70 that plays 6,511 yards from the back tees.

– Jessica Mozo

Parks and Trails The Sumter County Recreation and Parks Department oversees a wide array of parks, sports leagues and trails that contribute to the county’s quality of life. The Cypress Trail is a scenic 6-mile, natural-surface walking trail open daily from dawn until dusk. There are also walking tracks at V.I.M. Park, Wedgefield Community Park, Cherryvale Community Center, Live Oak Park, RembertRafting Creek Community Center and Dillon Park.

Senior citizens stay active in Sumter, too. The Sumter County Recreation and Parks Department sponsors Senior Fitness Days, with competitive games of golf, track and field, horseshoes, bowling, basketball, table tennis and more.

Pools and Lakes Make a splash at the City of Sumter Aquatics Center, which has competition swim meets, a slide, wade pool entrance and fountain. The Aquatics Center provides water aerobics classes, swim camps for kids, lifeguard training and swim lessons for kids 3 and older.

Area lakes provide great fishing opportunities, with Lake Marion sprawling across more than 110,000 acres in Sumter and four surrounding counties. The lake is popular with fishermen, thanks to

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3/22/10 11:40:09 AM

®

Sumter , South Carolina editorial project Manager mitch Kline content Director Lisa battles Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Jessica Walker Staff Writer Kevin Litwin Copy Editor Jill Wyatt

Lifestyle Options: • Independent Living • Assisted Living

Sumter’s Only Continuing Care Retirement Community

Contributing writers Barbara Biehler, Cary Estes, M.V. Greene, Jessica Mozo, Karen Schwartzman, Betsy Williams Senior Graphic Designers Laura Gallagher, Janine Maryland, Kris Sexton, Vikki Williams Graphic Designers Rachael Gerringer, Taylor nunley Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier color imaging technician Alison Hunter Integrated Media Manager Scott vonCannon Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Chairman Greg Thurman President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman

• Skilled Nursing Care

Executive Vice President Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales Todd Potter Senior V.P./Operations Casey Hester

• Secured Memory Care

Senior V.P./Client Development Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./business Development Scott Templeton

• Medicare Part A Short-Term Rehabilitation

senior V.P./Agribusiness Publishing Kim HOlmberg V.P./business Development Charles Fitzgibbon V.p./External Communications Teree Caruthers V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens

2825 Carter Rd. Sumter, SC 29150 (830) 469-7007 www.covenantplace.org

v.p./Travel publishing Susan Chappell V.P./Sales Herb Harper, Jarek Swekosky Controller Chris Dudley Senior Accountant Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator Diana Guzman sales support Coordinator alex marks sales support project manager sara quint system administrator daniel cantrell Web creative director allison davis Web Content Manager John Hood

visit our

advertisers

Web project manager noy fongnaly Web designer II Richard stevens Web development lead Yamel Hall Web developer i nels noseworthy Web Account Manager Lauren Eubank

Bank of Clarendon www.bankofclarendon.com

Nicole Norris Design Studio Inc. www.nicolenorrisdesign.com

Belladonna LLC

On Eagles’ Wings Inc. www.sumterairport.com

Bioenergy Technologies www.bioenergyglobal.com C. Anthony’s Menswear www.canthonysmenswear.com Central Carolina Technical College www.cctech.edu City of Sumter www.sumtersc.gov Country Inn & Suites www.countryinn.com/sumtersc Covenant Place www.covenantplace.org Gallery 406 Interiors www.gallery406interiors.com Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce www.sumterchamber.com Hangar Twelve www.hangartwelve.com

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publication design Director murry keith Media Technology Analysts becca ary, Chandra Bradshaw audience development Director deanna nelson Marketing Creative Director Keith Harris

Prudential – John M. Brabham Real Estate www.wesellsumter.com SAFE Federal Credit Union www.safefed.org Sumter Beauty College Inc. www.sumterbeautycollege.com Sumter County www.sumtercountysc.org Sumter Development Board www.sumteredge.com Sykes Enterprises Inc. www.sykes.com The Southern Cross www.cannofsiam.com Thompson Construction Group www.thompson.southeast.com

Morris College www.morris.edu

University of South Carolina Sumter www.uscsumter.edu

Media Technology Director Christina Carden

Piggly Wiggly

Kaydon Corporation www.kaydonbearings.com

Sumter

Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto

Distribution Director Gary Smith Executive Secretary Kristy Duncan Human Resources Manager Peggy Blake Receptionist Linda Bishop

Images Sumter is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Greater Sumter County Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses.

For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at info@jnlcom.com.

For more information, contact: Greater Sumter County Chamber of Commerce 32 E. Calhoun St. • Sumter, SC 29150 Phone: (803) 775-1231 sumterchamber.com Visit Images Sumter online at imagessumterco.com ©Copyright 2012 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

Member

The Association of Magazine Media Member

Custom Content Council

Member Greater Sumter County Chamber of Commerce

community profile community overview Sumter is growing – and not just economically. The area’s arts, historic and environmental preservation, and sports are all growing as well, with more than 100 clubs and community organizations devoted to these interests and much more.

Household Information

42% Black

AGE:

Cost of Living

38

$42,609

Median Resident Age

Median Household Income

$134,500 Median Home Price

27%

Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

Weather

91° F July Average High

34° F Annual Rain Fall (vs. National Average Annual Rain Fall of 37”)

4% Other

46%

Numbers to know

27% Age 55 and Over

marital status:

51% Married

49% Single

January Average Low

48”

Hispanic

Age 19 and Under

Age 20-54

$578

2%

ETHNICITY:

52% White

Driver’s License State of South Carolina – Driver License Division (803) 775-8559 Vehicle Registration South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles www.scdmvonline.com/ DMVNew/default. aspx?n=titleandreg Voter Registration Sumter County Registration/ Election Office (803) 436-2310 www.sumtercountysc.org/ departments/Voterreg1.htm

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Ad Index

32 Bank of Clarendon

28 On Eagles’ Wings Inc.

C3 Belladonna LLC

36 Piggly Wiggly

C3 Bioenergy Technologies

23 C. Anthony’s Menswear

43 Central Carolina Technical College

7 Prudential – John M. Brabham Real Estate

5 SAFE Federal Credit Union

28 Sumter Beauty College Inc.

4 Sumter County

4 Sumter Development Board

2 Sykes Enterprises Inc.

1 City of Sumter

39 Country Inn & Suites

46 Covenant Place

31 Gallery 406 Interiors

6 Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce

28 Hangar Twelve

28 The Southern Cross

30 Kaydon Corporation

C4 Morris College

C2 Thompson Construction Group

47 Nicole Norris Design Studio Inc.

30 University of South Carolina Sumter

Through the Lens

Get the Story Behind the Photo Now that you’ve experienced Sumter through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. Visit throughthelensjci.com to view our exclusive photographers’ blog documenting what all went in to capturing those perfect moments.

From Our Photo Blog: Sumter It’s funny how little you know about a place even though you’ve been there numerous times.

Having been to Sumter, SC, on many occasions for work, I’ve passed under the footbridge on Liberty Street but never taken a gander at what lay beyond the fences.

To my surprise, behind the tall black fences lays a 120-acre garden, the Swan Lake-Iris Gardens, that contains all manners of flora, from camellias, to day lilies, to azaleas. But the most prized of them all, are the Japanese iris …

Hamilton Carr Bland first tried planting Japanese iris at his home in the 1920s. After several unsuccessful attempts at getting them to bloom, Bland had the iris bulbs dug up and dumped into some swamp land.

The following spring to Bland’s surprise, the bulbs burst from the ground into what would become the Swan Lake-Iris Gardens.

But if the flora doesn’t impress you, the fauna definitely will.

Posted by todd bennett

More Online See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at throughthelensjci.com.

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Sumter

Belladonna

“Different kind of clothing … for a different kind of lady!”

Giuliana Mastrangelo, Owner • 600 Bultman Dr., Unit 3 • Sumter, SC 29150 • 803.773.1431

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