Welcome to Shaw and Sumter Guide 2025 by The Sumter Item

Shaw Sumter

&

BASE LEADERSHIP GOLF AND DISC GOLF COURSES MEDICAL CENTERS

PUBLIC ART SHOOTING RANGE

PET-FRIENDLY PLACES DINING DOWNTOWN NEW VETERANS’ CLINIC

COMMUNITY-BASED OUTPATIENT

CLINIC ADDS 104-BED VETERANS

NURSING HOME

Home of the Free,

In times of war and peace, the men and women of our military dedicate themselves to serving our country. Their commitment, patriotism, sacrifice and courage keep our country safe and strong.

We honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, and salute those who have served and are serving today.

Present this certificate at any SAFE Federal Credit Union branch when you open your first account. We'll put $5 into your brand new SAFE share account!

Welcome The Sumter Item

from

On behalf of The Sumter Item, I’d like to welcome you to the Sumter community. We’re glad you’re here.

In the last few years, the growing connections between the Shaw and Sumter communities have been evident and inspiring. Our connected communities make our events more lively, support our vibrant local business scene and help us all live more fulfilled lives.

Whether you’re in Sumter for a day, months or years, I’d encourage you to make those cross-community connections and embrace everything Sumter has to offer. From Sumter’s bustling and growing downtown to community parks and numerous local gatherings, Sumter is a place to explore and enjoy.

The Sumter Item is the 130-year-old leader in local news, and today, we’re connected not only through our newspapers, the twice-weekly Item and monthly free Sumter Item Impact, but also through TheItem.com, local video shows, hosted events, email newsletters and more.

Here are a few ways to stay connected:

Sign up for our free daily newsletter at TheItem.com/newsletter. Follow The Sumter Item on Facebook, Instagram and X. Subscribe to The Sumter Item to stay completely up to date at TheItem.com/subscribe.

Our staff at The Sumter Item is committed to keeping you informed about everything you need to know while you’re in Sumter.

I hope you enjoy this magazine.

Publisher, The Sumter Item

Welcome

To the Sumter Shaw Family

As you arrive and get settled in the community, you will soon discover the people of Sumter have great patriotic pride in supporting the base mission, military personnel and their families and demonstrate an overwhelming show of support for deployed personnel and their families. Base personnel return that support to the community through their unselfish work to improve the quality of education, medical care, spiritual life and humanitarian activities.

Shaw Air Force Base is located within city limits. City of Sumter government and staff work closely with Shaw on a daily basis with a team of former and current elected officials, city staff and military retirees in support of Shaw’s airmen, soldiers and their families.

Land use near military installations is always a concern. New residential and commercial development along with increasing competition for land, airspace and water access can constrain training, testing and other base activities. Sumter has an active land protection program around Shaw, with over 3,000 acres of land surrounding the base to keep development from encroaching too closely.

The City of Sumter partners with the base through the following programs

• South Carolina Military Base Task Force

• Shaw-Sumter Community Council

• Honorary Commanders Program

• Weasel Welcome Program

• ARCENT Newcomers Briefing

• Taste of Sumter

• Community Bus Tours

• Shaw Spouses Club

• Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee

• Joint public safety training and support programs through fire and police departments

• Events on and off base to support active duty, retirees, personnel and their families

Medical centers/ clinics:

• Sumter VA Clinic 407 N. Salem Ave. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 938-9901

Sunday: Closed Monday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday: 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Wednesday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Thursday: 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

• Columbia (Dorn) VA Health Care System 6439 Garners Ferry Road Columbia, SC 29209 (803) 776-4000

• Florence VA Clinic 514H Dargan St. Florence, SC 29501 (843) 292-8383

• Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System 109 Bee St. Charleston, SC 29401 (843) 577-5011

Hiking DAY TRIPS

Table Rock State Park

Photos by Jason Stoddard

Crowders Mountain State Park

Travel a two-and-a-half-hour drive north of the South Carolina border and get a view of Charlotte from Gaston County, North Carolina, on Crowders Mountain.

Trek along Crowder’s Trail to Rocktop Trail Loop, a 5.8-mile climb to the top of Crowder’s Mountain, for a view of the North Carolina landscape and a distant outlook of Queen City and the east.

For a tougher hike, climb the park’s Pinnacle Trail, a 4.2-mile, out-and-back trail featuring a view of the state’s west side.

5.8 mi.

4.2 mi.

2.5 HOURS

Caesars Head State Park

Travel a three-and-a-half-hour drive to Cleveland, South Carolina, to hike the surroundings of Raven Cliff Falls, a nearly 400-foot-drop waterfall surrounded by an abundance of vegetation.

For a moderate hike, trek a 4-mile, out-and-bactrail along Raven Cliff Falls Trail to see the waterfall. For a more difficult hike, travel down the Raven Cliff Falls and Dismal Trail Loop, a nearly 9-mile loop with more than 2,000 feet of elevation gain featuring a suspension bridge over the waterfall and the falls floor.

3.30 HOURS 4 mi.

Edisto Beach State Park

Take a two-hour drive south to get a hiking and beach day experience at Edisto Beach State Park for many easy, flat trails for hikers and bikers alike.

A popular site to see includes a 1.8-mile trail along the Botany Bay Beach Walk.

1.8 mi.

2 HOURS

Table Rock State Park

The park is a three-hour and 15-minute drive to Pickens, South Carolina.

For a moderate, at times strenuous, hike, climb Table Rock Trail, a 6.8-mile trail with rewarding views of both a lake and mountain landscape.

For a tougher, more challenging hike, climb to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain Trail, an 8-mile, out-and-back trail featuring views and waterfalls.

6.8 MI. 8 MI.

3.15 HOURS

Congaree National Park

An hour west of Sumter lies Hopkins, South Carolina’s national treasure with a ton of easy family friendly trails at one of the country’s famous National Parks.

Although there are many trails to explore, the 2-mile Boardwalk Loop Trail is the most popular, featuring South Carolina’s native species in a swamp-like environment.

1 HOUR 2 mi

Poinsett State Park

Stay close to home and travel to Pinewood, South Carolina, for family friendly hikes or mountain biking at Sumter County’s own state park.

Although most trails are easy, take on the moderate Poinsett Loop trail to get the entire park experience in 14.8 miles.

30 MINUTES 14.8 mi.

Photo by Melanie Smith

Base

Leadership

20th Fighter Wing commander

Col. Kevin D. “Flint” Hicok

Col. Kevin D. Hicok is the commander of the 20th Fighter Wing, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. The wing’s mission is to provide, project and sustain combat-ready air forces. He is responsible for the mission readiness of the wing’s 79 aircraft, 18 squadrons, stewardship of Shaw and the health and welfare of 8,000 active-duty airmen and civilians. Furthermore, Col. Hicok supervises the support of the 31,000 local military retirees and 29 geographically separated units across nine states.

Col. Hicok received his commission as a distinguished graduate of the Air Force ROTC program from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minnesota, in 2001. He has served as an F-16 pilot, instructor pilot, flight examiner, weapons officer and instructor at the USAF Fighter Weapons School at Nellis AFB, Nevada. Col. Hicok also served as the commander, 51st Operations Support Squadron, Osan AB, Republic of Korea. Prior to his current position, he served as the deputy commander of the 20th Fighter Wing.

Col. Hicok is a command pilot with over 2,100 hours in the F-16. He deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and flew 191 combat hours. Additionally, Col. Hicok served as an advisor to the 603d and 617th Air Operations Centers during crisis action planning and execution of Operation Odyssey Dawn and Operation Unified Protector.

20th Fighter Wing deputy commander

Col. Hugh “Hoot” Walker

Col. Hugh “Hoot” Walker currently serves as the deputy commander, 20th Fighter Wing, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. The wing’s mission is to provide, project and sustain combat-ready air forces. The wing is responsible for the mission readiness of the 79 aircraft, 18 squadrons, stewardship of Shaw and the health and welfare of 8,000 active-duty airmen and civilians. Furthermore, the 20th Fighter Wing supports 31,000 local military retirees and 29 geographically separated units across nine states.

Prior to Shaw, Col. Walker served as the deputy executive officer to the chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff. In this position, he personally supported the chairman in his role as the principal military advisor to the president of the United States, the Secretary of Defense and Congress. Col. Walker also served as the military deputy for the Joint Staff’s Generative AI Task Force, TF 37-78, where he drove cutting-edge AI adoption across the Joint Staff’s 2,200-person enterprise. Col. Walker received his commission in 2004 as a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and earned his pilot aeronautical rating in 2006 from Joint Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training at Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi. Throughout his career, he has held several key positions, including chief of staff of the Air Force Scholar at Princeton University, commander of the F-16 Weapons Squadron at the United States Air Force Weapons School, Commander’s Action Group director for Air Combat Command and USINDOPACOM scholar at the National War College. Col. Walker has also served as an evaluator pilot, joint operational planning expert, joint/coalition integration expert and as an operational advisor to multiple research labs and government think tanks.

A command pilot with over 1,900 total hours flying the F-16, including 725 combat hours, Col. Walker has supported contingency operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya. He has served in various roles such as weapons officer, mission commander, flight leader and Combined Air Operations Center liaison.

We understand you and your unique communications needs. You want fast, reliable internet, dependable wireless service, 24/7 security, various TV options, value-packed phone plans and more.

Internet

• Speeds Up to 1 Gig

• Free Modem

• Free Online Content from ESPN Security

• 24/7 UL Listed Monitoring

• Video Surveillance Phone (Voice over Internet Protocol) FTC Internet Required

• Unlimited Nationwide Calling Plus Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and Canada Wireless

• More Than 140 Local Towers to Ensure the Best Coverage

• Member of the AT&T Global Network

• Contract Buyout Option TV

• Robust Channel Lineup

• Access to Online Content through watchTVeverywhere Find us on Facebook facebook.com/FarmersTelephone

20th Fighter Wing command chief

Chief MSgt. Christopher D. Griste

Chief MSgt. Christopher D. Griste is the command chief, 20th Fighter Wing, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. He advises the commander on matters influencing the readiness, training, education and resiliency of 7,110 active-duty airmen and civilians and more than 8,000 family members. Further, he supervises the support of the 31,000 local military retirees and 29 geographically separated units across nine states. The wing’s mission is to sustain operational suppression of enemy air defenses by way of the three F-16 Fighting Falcon units for a 79 aircraft fleet worth $1.7 billion to ensure combat readiness to deploy, employ and sustain air superiority.

Air Forces Central commander (AFCENT)

Lt. Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich

Lt. Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich is commander, Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central), Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, and the Combined Forces Air Component commander for U.S. Central Command, Southwest Asia. In these roles, the general is responsible for developing contingency plans and conducting air operations in a 21-nation area of responsibility covering Central and Southwest Asia.

Air Forces Central assistant deputy commander (AFCENT)

Maj. Gen. Clark J. Quinn

Maj. Gen. Clark J. Quinn serves as the assistant deputy commander, Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central), Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. In this position, he assists with the development of contingency plans and the execution of air operations for the 20-nation U.S. Central Command area of responsibility covering Central and Southwest Asia.

Air Forces Central command chief (AFCENT)

Chief MSgt. Katherine A. Grabham

Chief MSgt. Katherine A. Grabham is the command chief master sergeant for Ninth Air Force (United States Air Forces Central). As the command chief, she is the senior enlisted advisor to the commander on all matters affecting the readiness, training, professional development and effective utilization of all assigned and attached personnel. Additionally, she coordinates with the headquarters staff, commanders and senior personnel on the development and implementation of command policy and direction. As the air component senior enlisted leader to both Ninth Air Force and United States Air Forces Central, the chief champions and directs enlisted efforts in direct support of air operations (unilaterally or in concert with coalition partners) and the development of contingency plans in support of national objectives for USCENTCOM’s 20-nation area of responsibility in Southwest Asia.

15th Air Force commander

Maj. Gen. Michael G. Koscheski

Maj. Gen. Michael G. Koscheski is the commander, 15th Air Force, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Fifteenth AF organizes, trains and equips its headquarters to be a deployable, operational-level Joint Task Force and its subordinate commands to prepare for and execute expeditionary taskings. Additionally, 15th AF commands 13 wings and three direct reporting units in the U.S., ensuring the operational readiness of about 800 aircraft and more than 47,000 active-duty and civilian members.

15th Air Force deputy commander

Brig. Gen. Steven G. Behmer

Brig. Gen. Steven G. Behmer is the deputy commander, 15th Air Force, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Fifteenth Air Force organizes, trains and equips its subordinate commands to prepare for and execute expeditionary taskings. Additionally, 15th Air Force advises, assists, advocates and assesses 13 wings and three direct reporting units in the U.S., ensuring the operational readiness of about 800 aircraft and more than 47,000 active-duty and civilian members.

15th Air Force command chief

Chief MSgt. Jeremy L. Unterseher

Chief MSgt. Jeremy L. Unterseher is the command chief master sergeant for 15th Air Force, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. He advises the commander and staff on matters influencing the health, welfare, morale and effective utilization of all assigned personnel. Fifteenth AF organizes, trains and equips its subordinate commands to prepare for and execute expeditionary taskings. Additionally, 15th Air Force commands 13 wings and three direct reporting units in the U.S., ensuring the operational readiness of about 800 aircraft and more than 47,000 active-duty and civilian members. Chief MSgt. Unterseher entered the Air Force in August of 1995 and graduated from Navy School Explosive Ordnance Disposal in June 1996. His background includes various duties in the explosive ordnance career field at unit, MAJCOM and HAF levels.

25th Attack Group commander

Col. Trevor T. Merrell

Col. Trevor T. Merrell is the commander, 25th Attack Group, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. He is responsible for leading more than 1,000 personnel within five squadrons, located across three geographically separated installations. The group provides 24/7/365 global MQ-9A operations for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and provides global attack options to combatant commands in support of national and theater-specific objectives. Prior to assuming his current position, Col. Merrell served as the J-32 Force Management division chief. He led a team that developed and staffed DoD’s annual global ISR allocation plan, provided ISR sourcing recommendations in response to CCMD emergent requirements, ensured PED is aligned with Global Force Management ISR allocation and provided ISR subject matter expertise to other DoD and Joint Staff processes.

Col. Merrell commissioned in 2003 as a distinguished graduate of the Air Force ROTC program, Arizona State University. He graduated from Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training at Laughlin AFB, Texas, as a distinguished graduate in 2004. He is also a graduate of the USAF Weapons Instructor Course and School of Advanced Air and Space Studies.

Col. Merrell is a senior pilot with combat time in the F-16, MQ-1 and MQ-9 supporting Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

Edward Myers MD, FAAFP, DABOM

Carrie Hoshour, FNP-C

Lisa Smith, PA

Grace Couch, FNP

25th Attack Group senior enlisted leader

Chief MSgt. Sheldon Wright

Chief MSgt. Sheldon R. Wright is the senior enlisted leader, 25th Attack Group, Shaw AFB, South Carolina. He is the principal advisor to the commander on issues affecting combat operations and readiness, mission effectiveness, morale, welfare, safety, training, proper utilization and professional development of the group’s 18 Air Force Specialties totaling 1,050 active duty, civilian and contract personnel. The 25th Attack Group is a combat group comprised of five squadrons across three bases providing mission support, dominant worldwide persistent strike and strategic reconnaissance operations to six combatant commands flying the MQ-9A Reaper in support of 24/7, 365 overseas contingency operations.

Chief MSgt. Wright is a native of Jenkins, Kentucky. He entered the Air Force in April of 2000 and attended Aircraft Armament Systems technical training at the 363rd Training Squadron at Sheppard AFB, Texas. His background includes F-15 and F-22 Weapons Load crew chief, F-22 Loading Standardization crew member, weapons expediter, flight chief, operations superintendent, squadron superintendent, formal training unit superintendent, chief enlisted manager, senior enlisted leader, MQ-1 Predator flight examiner and MQ-9 Reaper instructor sensor operator. Chief MSgt. Wright has deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Inherent Resolve and Freedom’s Sentinel and has provided combat support to Operation Iraqi Freedom. Prior to his current position, Chief MSgt. Wright was the senior enlisted leader, 379th Expeditionary Operations Group, Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar.

U.S. Army Central commanding general

Lt. Gen. Patrick D. Frank – “Lucky 6”

Lt. Gen. Frank graduated from St. Bonaventure University and was commissioned as a U.S. Army infantry officer.

Throughout his career, he has served in a variety of command and staff assignments. His previous assignments include: commanding general of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk; deputy commanding general and acting senior commander of 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas; executive officer to the commander ISAF resolute support; executive officer to the vice chief of staff of the Army; commander of the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team “Spartans,” 10th Mountain Division - deployed in the surge of forces to Kandahar, Afghanistan, for Operation Enduring Freedom XII-XIII; 1st Infantry Division G-3; commander of 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry “Black Lions,” 4th IBCT, 1st Infantry Division - deployed to Baghdad as a part of the surge during Operation Iraqi Freedom-V; aide to the secretary of the Army; Deputy G-3 and Brigade S-3 in the 101st Airborne Division in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom-I; company commands in the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York, where he also deployed as a staff officer in support of Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, and a tour with the 3rd Infantry Division, Germany, in support of Operation Desert Storm. Prior to assuming command of USARCENT, Lt. Gen. Frank served as the chief of staff, U.S. Central Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida.

Lt. Gen. Frank earned a bachelor of arts in finance; a master’s degree in public administration from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University; a master’s degree in national security and strategic studies from the U.S. Naval War College; and a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College.

Lt. Gen. Frank’s awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Ranger Tab, Air Assault Badge and Parachutist Badge and the Expert Infantryman Badge.

U.S. Army Central command sergeant

Command Sgt. Maj. Eric McCray

CSM McCray is a native of Conway, Arkansas. He entered the U.S. Army Reserve in January 1990 under the Delayed Entry Program, completed Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia, as a supply specialist (76V) before enlisting in the active component as a 16T in July 1992 at Fort Bliss, Texas.

BY THE NUMBERS

The workforce

$1.7 billion: Shaw’s overall annual economic impact on Sumter region

$2.3 billion: Shaw’s overall annual economic impact on South Carolina

$1 billion: Labor income generated for Sumter region 11,671: Employment impact

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

31,000+: Active duty, military family and retirees living in Sumter

Source: Love Sumter | SumterSC.gov/community/military

Out of the eight major military installations in the state, Sumter has the third-largest military presence by total volume of militaryrelated activity (behind Charleston and Columbia).

Sumter Demographics

Population: 105,199

People under 18: 23.8%

People over 65: 17%

Black: 45.9 %

White: 45.4 %

Hispanic or Latino: 4.3 %

Total housing units: 47,015

Homeowner vacancy: 0.9 %

Rental vacancy: 5.2 %

Median household income: $53,970

High school graduate or higher: 91.1%

Bachelor’s degree or higher: 23.6%

Source: Sumter Edge | sumteredge.com/talent-workforce/research-data/

SHOOTING RANGES

Outdoor and indoor opportunities available in area for firearms enthusiasts

OUTDOOR

Wateree Rifle and Pistol Range

Access: Public

About: Operated by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Wateree Rifle and Pistol Range just two miles across the Sumter County line and over the Wateree River Bridge is a manned range with an officer on duty at all times. It consists of 14 rifle stations with targets up to 100 yards and 12 pistol stations up to 25 yards away. It is part of a larger facility that includes a shotgun sports facility next door.

Location:14069 Garners Ferry Road (U.S. 378), Eastover, SC 29044

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Web: www.dnr.sc.gov/shooting/ranges/wateree.html

Phone: (803) 240-7368

Hermitage Farm Shooting Sports

Access: Public

About: Nestled just south of Camden and near the Interstate 20 interchange in Kershaw County, Hermitage Farm Shooting Sports is a sporting clays course on a 1,500-acre tract. Similar to skeet shooting, the sport of shooting “clay pigeons” first developed in England and was introduced in the U.S. in 1980.

Location: 2362 Tickle Hill Road, Camden, SC 29020

Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5:30 p.m.

Web: www.hfsporting.com

Phone: (803) 432-0210

INDOOR

Ricochet Range

Access: Private (membership packages available)

About: Ricochet opened in 2020 and features a 10-lane training bay range, a state-of-the-art target retrieval system, a “smokeless range” simulator, classrooms and a retail area. Several classes are also offered.

Location: 1410 U.S. 15 South

Hours: Winter, Wednesday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; rest of the year, Wednesday-Monday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Web: www.ricochetrange.com

Phone: (803) 938-5713

Pets

Where you can let the dogs out

Friendly places in

Pets are family, and more people are choosing to include them in their travel plans. While health and safety regulations prevent your pet pals from enjoying some spaces, you will find that Sumter also contains many places where your furry (and not-so-furry)

From parks and campgrounds to outdoor dining, a rooftop brewery and two dog parks, there are plenty of opportunities to get your pets in on that family selfie, night out or evening under the stars.

• Sonic (Broad Street and McCrays Mill Road)

• Starbucks (outdoor seating)

• Sumter Original Brewery (rooftop)

Leashed pets are welcome at numerous chains, including Petco, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply, Harbor Freight and more. Call for individual store policies.

• Candlewood Suites

• Hyatt Place

• Quality Inn

• Rodeway Inn Hotels

Hi! I am Eiffel, and my favorite place to go in Sumter is the Hyatt Place/ Downtown Sumter.

• Dillon Park (off-leash dog park)

• Sumter Dog Park (off leash)

• Gen. Thomas Sumter Memorial Park • Memorial Park • Woods Bay State Park • Palmetto Park • Poinsett State Park

SCEWR exercise back for second time in 2023

20th Fighter Wing

Story by Airman 1st Class Mariana Tafur

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. - Throughout the hours of darkness, 20th Fighter Squadron pilots and maintainers gear up, preparing to conduct their combat simulation training on Dec. 11, 2023 with the initiative to serve their country.

For the second time in 2023, the 55th, 77th and 79th FS and Fighter Generation Squadrons primed to take off in an innovative exercise, called the South Carolina Electronic Warfare Range, which was newly developed that year.

SCEWR is an exercise aimed at replicating a more realistic combat scenario to better strengthen the capabilities of the wing’s pilots, maintainers and aircraft, by combining several local airspaces and surface-to-air radio transmitters to allow pilots to train in a more expanded training system.

Behind the innovative idea for the SCEWR concept is U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Joshua Moffat, 20th Operations Support Squadron commander, who met with the Federal Aviation Administration, Marines from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Navy partners from Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Florida, the South Carolina Air National Guard and other partners that utilize the air space to proceed with training exercise.

“With the help of our strategic partnerships, we were able to make this exercise possible,” Moffat said. “SCEWR provides our pilots and maintainers with a training environment which is not available for day-to-day training, primarily facing more realistic scenarios with the ability to practice tactics closer to the way they would be employed downrange.”

Utilizing collective data from the first SCEWR exercise held on March 6, 2023, Moffat gathered with 20th FW leadership, the local Radar Approach Control team and the FAA to strategically implement improvements to the next iteration of the exercise such as: expanded airspace and altitude, multiple threat emitter systems moved to the coast, and the addition of Poinsett Electronic Combat Range to the tactical airspace for weapons employment.

Because the FAA is busy directing commercial aircraft throughout the day, the 20th FW was granted access to the airspace for SCEWR in low-traffic times throughout the nights of Dec. 11-15, 2023.

“The capabilities of our pacing threat have changed; now we train against modern fourth- and fifth-generation missiles and fighters,” said Lt. Col. Nathaniel Halley, 77th FS instructor and evaluator pilot. “The purpose of training during SCEWR is to give us an opportunity to train against a more advanced threat in our local airspace while giving our young flight leads and instructors the oppor-

tunity to develop the skills they need to plan effectively and train in a complicated environment.”

Although SCEWR training is a new and evolving occurrence, it has fostered greater connections among the units who train together, forming camaraderie and multi-level readiness to undergo any mission as one unit.

“Getting that collective brain power and man power of three squadrons together and utilizing this power showcases the full potential of Shaw’s combat air power and what the F-16 is capable of,” said Capt. Will Mueser, 77th FS pilot. “It’s interesting because when we put our minds together to solve a complex tactical scenario, it led to a lot of shared experience and lessons.”

For future goals, Moffat said he will be cohesively working with the FAA, joint partners, total force partners and environmental agencies with the local community to develop an airspace that works efficiently at high speed while also respecting the community.

FITNESS YMCA Programs

It’s important to live a healthy lifestyle, whether you’re piloting Shaw’s F-16 Fighting Falcons or taking care of your military family. The Sumter Family YMCA has something for everyone, from classes and gyms to Parents Night Out and afterschool programming. Here are some popular programs.

Aquatics

For youth and adults: swim teams for ages 5-21; Lap swim and fitness swim.

Athletics

Basketball: Leagues for youth (ages 5-15) October-February and men (ages 25 and up) September-October; personal training and clinics for youth (ages 7-16).

Flag football: Leagues for youth (ages 7-13) March-April.

Soccer: Leagues for youth (ages 3-8) March-April.

Gymnastics: Classes from preschool to adult; competitive team for girls; cheer and tumble clinics; birthday parties.

Summer camps: For ages 3-14. Camp Mac Boykin, specialty camps (aquatics, basketball, gymnastics and nutrition).

Fitness: Personal training; group exercise classes; nutrition consultations; Enhanced Fitness (program for individuals with arthritis); Exercise Is

Medicine (bridge program from physical therapy); Women On Weights (program on proper mechanics for lifting).

Wellness

YFIT: 8-week educational program looking at all aspects of lifestyle and how to overcome barriers and make changes to improve personal well-being. No fee with physician referral and complimentary membership.

StrongHeart: 12-week program for heart attack and stroke survivors or individuals at risk for both. Medical clearance from physician necessary to participate.

Diabetes Exercise Program: 12-week activity/ educational program. No fee with physician referral. Medical clearance from physician necessary.

Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program: 16week program that is a 1-on-1 with a Healthy Heart Ambassador to track and improve blood pressure. No fee with physician referral.

Youth: Birthday parties; afterschool programs; Kids Night Out event monthly.

Active Older Adult Activities: Arts and crafts; monthly movies; holiday-themed activities; field trips.

Scholarships

VETERANS’ RESOURCES expanding in Sumter

Sumter has a state-of-the-art VA Clinic, Community Based Outpatient Clinic and will soon have a 104-bed nursing home to serve area veterans

Sumter’s Community Based Outpatient Clinic, or CBOC, which is a part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Columbia VA Health Care System, opened its doors in late 2023 after a significant expansion, ushering in more opportunity for Sumter-area veterans to seek quality health care close to home.

“The Columbia VAHCS comprises the Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center and seven community-based outpatient clinics located throughout South Carolina in Anderson, Florence, Greenville, Orangeburg, Rock Hill, Spartanburg and Sumter, serving more than 90,000 veterans annually in 36 of 46 counties in South Carolina,” according to a news release. “The Columbia VA is a level 1b teaching hospital, providing a full range of patient care services, with state-of-the-art technology, education and research. Comprehensive health care is provided through primary care, tertiary

care and long-term care in areas of medicine, surgery, psychiatry, physical medicine and rehabilitation.”

At 407 N. Salem Ave., not far from Riley Park, this CBOC has served more than 5,000 veterans since November 2023 when it started operating at a larger capacity.

Valerie Brunson, director of Sumter County Veterans Affairs, said before the expansion was underway that the North Salem location outgrew the number of patients it could serve, prompting not only the expansion on that property, but also the construction of Sumter’s new Veterans Affairs Clinic at 245 Bultman Drive near the Sumter Mall.

Many retired military members remain in Sumter after their active service, and with the newly expanded CBOC and new VA Clinic, these veterans now have health care access right at their back door.

There was a ceremony celebrating the opening of the significantly larger CBOC at 407 N. Salem Ave. on June 14, 2024.

“The new clinic enhances the health care services available to veterans in the area, ensuring they receive the quality care they deserve,” according to a news release from Columbia VA Health Care System.. “We understand the importance of providing accessible and comprehensive health care services to our veterans, and the new Sumter CBOC plays a crucial role in this mission.”

Sumter-area veterans have an array of resources available to them close to home thanks to the new VA Clinic and the newly expanded CBOC, and they’re about to have even more resources to take advantage of with the new nursing home that is in its latter phases of construction.

Predicted to be completed end of January to beginning of February 2025, the 104-bed facility is under construction on more than 70 acres at 915 N. Wise Drive.

In 2019, South Carolina Department of Mental Health was directed to make a recommendation for a future location to place a state veterans’ nursing home facility in the central part of the state.

In total, the project cost $71.4 million, a combination of federal money from the U.S. Veterans Administration and state matching money, said Tracy LaPointe, director of the S.C. Department of Mental

Health’s public information office. The Veterans Administration approved $28.8 million in reimbursable money, and the department received $42.6 million for the project in its fiscal year 2022 appropriations.

When the facility opens, veterans will reside in either single- or double-occupancy rooms. The facility is planned to have a chapel, barber shop, activities room, bistro, physical therapy room and pharmacy.

“State veteran nursing homes provide eligible veterans the residential care of professional nursing and custodial care staff when they or their primary caregivers are no longer able to provide the requisite assistance at home,” Secretary of Veterans’ Affairs’ Todd McCaffrey said. “The Sumter facility is a further example of South Carolina’s appreciation and investment in sustaining veteran quality of life in our state. With nearly 400,000 veterans living in our state, nearly 45% over the age of 65, state veteran nursing homes extend a degree of comfort and dignity closer to home and honors that veteran’s service to the nation, often in their time of greatest need.”

According to LaPointe, eligibility for admission into a state veterans nursing home is as follows: a veteran served active duty with an honorable discharge, a veteran has been a resident of South Carolina for the previous 12 months, and a veteran meets Veterans Administration criteria for skilled or intermediate nursing home care. The operator of the facility will handle all admission requests.

WE HONOR OUR MILITARY at

Freedom Honda has a special offer for members of the US Military. In appreciation of your military service, Honda is offering select US Military individuals and their spouses $500 toward any 2024 or newer model year Honda automobile when financed or leased through Honda Financial Services (on approved credit). (HFS) [1]. $500 offer valid July 6, 2024 through April 1, 2025 unless terminated by HFS. Please see our website for more details and updated information.

Shaw Air Force Base’s 20th Fighter Wing

COL. KEVIN D. HICOK BROUGHT UP FROM WITHIN TO EXPAND HIS LEADERSHIP ON BASE, IN SUMTER

Col. Kevin D. Hicok, the current 20th Fighter Wing commander as of June 2024, said his oldest son is a stoic guy.

This stoic guy, at 12 years old, has moved around a lot in his life, but when his parents asked him how he would feel about sticking around Sumter after having already lived there for three years, he smiled a smile his dad won’t soon forget.

The Hicoks, like any military family, live a transient life, having lived all around the world in service to their country. It’s both an honor and a sacrifice, the commander’s wife, Bridie, said.

They moved to Sumter’s Shaw Air Force Base in July 2021 when Hicok was deputy commander of the 20th Fighter Wing.

“I really like that feeling of just being kind of scooped up and part of the community,” he said.

It’s special that Shaw’s new commander was chosen internally; usually, the base commander comes from another place, but Hicok and his family are already familiar with not only Shaw, but Sumter as well.

But they know what it’s like to be new in town, so they want all airmen and soldiers at Shaw to feel welcomed in Sumter to ease that transition every military member and family experiences upon every move.

“Welcoming these families into your communities and into your activities is very crucial to some of these families having a good experience and being able to do the mission because their families are supported at home,” Bridie Hicok said. “If you have a neighbor that you know is military, maybe their spouse is deployed, maybe their children are struggling to adapt to a new place, to invite them into your

activities and invite them to children’s birthday parties. Invite them to neighborhood barbecues and cookouts.

“Tell them about events that are happening, and sometimes it’s easier to move to a new place and just be quiet, not immerse yourself, but this town is full of opportunities, and we want our families to know that they can go to these community events.”

Welcomed and supported is exactly what the Hicoks felt during the ceremony where Shaw’s commander position switched hands officially.

“It was overwhelming, a lot of emotions going on. We’re very good friends with the previous command team, and so it’s a moment of gratitude for being able to be their partner for the last couple of years,” he said. “It’s bittersweet to see them go. And then just to look out in the crowd and see all the airmen, the breadth of support.”

The previous 20th Fighter Wing commander was Col. Kristoffer Smith. He is now deputy director of plans, programs and requirements for Air Combat Command at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, according to Shaw’s website.

Two

Women-owned businesses offer something new

A romance genre-themed bookstore and a children’s clothing boutique have more in common than you think. Under the Cover and Lollibear could not be more different from each other in what they sell in downtown Sumter, and yet they offer similar spaces catered to, but not exclusively for, women.

In an unassuming store bay window on 9 S. Main St., cat trees and toys surround the façade of Under the Cover. What one may think is just a bookstore holds so much more within.

“We wanted to create a space for people who love romance novels, so that they felt welcome and not judged and comfortable enough to sit around and read and have a glass of wine and just enjoy themselves comfortably,” owner Sharlene Shuler said.

Shuler focuses on romance novels, which have been her favorites for years, though she does have some New York Times Bestsellers to appease those who may have been dragged in by the genre-specific enthusiasts.

“At first, it was unboxing everything and looking through all the books and the covers,” Shuler said about her favorite part of owning Under the Cover. “That was a lot of fun, but really, it’s being able to share the one genre I’ve always

loved with everybody else and hoping they feel comfortable coming here. And the cats; the cats have been amazing.”

dog, Buffy, got along so well.

Who could forget about the cats? Shuler has fosters at her store and allows customers to pet them, walk with them on a leash and form a connection. All the cats are available for adoption. Even though Under the Cover has only been open since June 2024, the store has already adopted out nine cats to both the employees’ pleasure and dismay. According to Shuler, everyone cries a little when a cat leaves.

“It’s kind of a two-parter,” Shuler said. “You think of like that woman that lives alone reading her books with her glass of wine and her cat. So, it’s the spinster concept but not ‘spinstery.’ And it also gives me the opportunity to give back to the community by fostering the fur babies until they find their forever home.”

However, one of those cats was adopted by Shuler herself because the cat and her

Speaking of Buffy, there is always a chance you may see the tiny dog if you stop in.

That is not all, though. Shuler offers something else that is rare to her patrons.

“Most bookstores do coffee. But there are two coffee shops on this street that we just, we can’t compete with,” Shuler said. “So, then, after thinking about it, you know, a lot of women will drink a glass of wine and read a book.”

For as long as the store is open, which is currently 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday, of-age customers can enjoy a glass at the wine bar in the back.

Shuler pulled from her own experience when creating her business model. She enjoys reading her romance novels alongside a glass of wine, so she decided to share that joy with others.

“[Romance has] always been one of the top genres,” Shuler said. “In fact, it’s been the No. 1 genre for a long time, but it’s always kind of frowned upon like it’s, you know, not worthy of a New York Times Bestseller, but it is.”

Shuler is committed to creating a space where a love of romance novels is not shamed, and this includes holding events such as sip and paints and themed craft nights. Sometimes they even hold book signings.

The romance selection at Under the Cover is a variety that ranges from current best-selling romance authors to the obscure. She features multi-cultural, queer, young adult, fantasy and dark romance, among other genres.

Lollibear,

(803) 774-0317

Weekdays 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

that are employed here, and we all have kids, and if our kids haven’t torn it apart yet, I promise it’s not going to happen,” DuBose said. “But that’s the other thing we like about this. If your kid wants to come here and run around, go for it. I mean, that is, that’s what

The boutique, which opened in May, has clothing for prematurely born babies up to tweens and caters to families by offering corresponding sets of children’s clothing. Clothing is not the only good the store offers, though. Lollibear has toys and accessories as well as bookbags and lunchboxes. DuBose and Hulme wanted to ensure they cater to all types of children’s clothing needs,

“I don’t think I fully grasped the concept of what [owning a business] was going to be like, and it’s just been the most rewarding thing,” DuBose said. “It’s exciting to see when people go on vacation or are just out, and they pass you, and they’re wearing something that you’ve gone and picked

Under the Cover and Lollibear could be just the beginning of an increase in stores that cater to the needs/wants of women (in the case of Under the Cover) and parents (in

So go experience the colorful, yet put-together store that is Lollibear, or cuddle up with a book at Under the Cover – Hulme, DuBose, Shuler and maybe even a couple of

Hit the

LINKS

Golfing is a pastime and sport well-loved in the South and across the country. With the area's climate that is pleasant much of the year, sunny skies and wide-open spaces, courses abound in the Sumter region. From public and semiprivate to private and exclusive, each course offers a different experience. Keep going back to your favorite one, or make your way through this entire list. Either way, fore!

SUMTER

Beech Creek Golf Club

Access: Semiprivate

Beech Creek Golf Club is nestled in the historic “High Hills of the Santee” and opened for play in 1989. The golf course is located on one of the most scenic pieces of property in Sumter County with elevation changes that allow for views that can go for miles. Beech Creek is an 18-hole course that’s fun to play.

1800 Sam Gillespie Blvd., Sumter (803) 499-4653

Carolina Lakes Golf Course

Access: Special-access – Shaw AFB

Carolina Lakes Golf Course offers 18 lush, emerald Bermuda greens and fairways tucked in a gently rolling landscape. A fully stocked pro-shop, driving range and restaurant are also at the course. The restaurant overlooks the scenic 18th hole and has a panoramic view of the course from nearly every seat.

400 Stuart St., Shaw Air Force Base (803) 895-1399

Crystal Lakes Golf Course

Access: Public

Crystal Lakes is an 18-hole, 6,264-yard course (blue tees) that welcomes all levels of players.

A driving range, putting green and practice area for pitching complement a clubhouse and snack bar for a fun and affordable outing. Seniors, children and serious golfers alike enjoy walking or riding in carts at this Sumter County course that has a new entrance and parking lot.

1305 Clara Louise Kellogg Drive, Sumter (803) 775-1902

The Links at Lakewood

Access: Semiprivate

The Links at Lakewood has been under new management and ownership since May 2016. The Links’ goals are to provide a good, quality golf course to play, but at the same time keep it affordable. These goals have led The Links to be voted best golf course in Sumter County four consecutive years in The Sumter Item’s Best of Sumter readers choice contest.

3600 Green View Parkway, Sumter (803) 481-5700

Quixote Club

Access: Private

Quixote Club is a world-class golf course with a skillfully crafted clubhouse and first-class staff. Quixote invites generous, philanthropic-minded individuals from across the country to participate in a club that prides itself in leaving a legacy behind for future generations to enjoy. Based on the

East Lake Foundation model in Atlanta, Quixote’s philanthropic mission is to support ongoing high-quality, free public education in the form of Liberty STEAM Charter School, Sumter’s first public charter school.

1005 Golfcrest Road, Sumter (803) 775-5541

CLARENDON

The Players Course at Wyboo

Access: Semiprivate

Nestled along the shores of Lake Marion, The Players Course has been voted the best golf course in Clarendon County four consecutive years in The Sumter Item’s Best of Clarendon readers choice contest. The Players Course is carved from wooded terrain and features large, undulating greens. The contrasting styles of the front and back nines make for a great round.

1560 Players Course Drive, Manning (803) 478-2500

Shannon Greens Golf Club

Access: Semiprivate

Shannon Greens is one of the oldest golf courses in Clarendon County. The layout is made up of 18-hole championship tees. The course has five par 3s and five par 5s, making it a par 72 layout. There are tall pines, ponds, creeks and dog legs that give the course great character. The signature hole is No. 7, the island green. The pro shop is full of golf inventory, and there is a full-service bar and lounge area.

1435 Davenport Drive, Manning (803) 435-8752

Wyboo Golf Club

Access: Semiprivate

Wyboo Golf Club is regarded by many as the best public-access golf course in the region because of its premier condition and layout. During the summer of 2021, Wyboo did a total renovation of the greens with Tifeagle Bermuda grass. Amenities include a driving range, practice putting green, fully stocked pro shop, snack bar and bar in a newly renovated clubhouse area.

2565 Players Course Drive, Manning (803) 478-7899

arts scene

SSumter is alive with a vibrant surge of creativity. From public art flowing through the community, featuring whimsical butterflies painted by local artists and installed across downtown, to larger-than-life murals giving new life to old walls, to a cultural renaissance being brought about by a new art park and the expansion of a community art studio, Sumter’s arts scene is not just expanding; it’s soaring and painting a bright future, one brushstroke at a time.

For over two decades, the City of Sumter has sought to revitalize downtown Sumter. One way to do so was by giving it some color. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Main Street Society and the city teamed up to bring local artists to the forefront by hanging seven uniquely painted 3-foot butterflies across the Central Business District down both Main and Liberty streets. The installation of the colorful creatures was complete after two years. In 2023, the city called for round two, providing seven more butterflies and receiving more submis sions than before; two butterflies were also replaced from the first round with fresh coats of paint and new designs. The 14 total locations are spread out enough to where the city and

BUTTERFLIES

Swallowtail (original)

Artist: Cleo Klopfleisch

Sumter Item

Lucidity (original)

Artist: Nurai Tucker

MURALS

Portraits of Sumter natives Ernest A. Finney Jr., South Carolina’s first Black Supreme Court chief justice, and Freddie Solomon, two-time Super Bowl champion wide receiver, by McClellan Douglas

363 Manning Ave.

SOUTH SUMTER ART PARK

South Sumter has unveiled a new gem.

The South Sumter Art Park debuted in December 2024 after nearly a year of construction.

The park is at 645 Manning Ave. and includes two basketball courts with a vibrant, colorful, swirling art design; sidewalks; an art-themed playground; a pavilion and restrooms; greenery; parking and more. The layout of the park is meant to allow parents to keep watch over their children as they enjoy the park. Local artists have their artwork on display through rotating temporary art installations.

The City of Sumter collaborated with former state Rep. David Weeks, D-Sumter, for the project, and

funding came from the South Carolina Arts Commission for $550,000. Weeks, a native of South Sumter, said the Southside community was once strong and flourished but has been in decline over time. With the addition of the art park and several other art-related initiatives and projects expected to launch in the next year, South Sumter is in the beginning stages of “a renaissance [and] a renewal of what I call the greatness that my home community is all about,” Weeks said.

MANNING AVENUE FREE ART STUDIO EXPANSION

A landmark in the South Sumter community is expanding.

Ivan Sanders, executive director of the Manning Avenue Free Art Studio and dedicated community leader, is leading the expansion of the studio, founded by his father, the late David “Pablo” Sanders. Opened in 1976, the elder Sanders worked with youth in the neighborhood, teaching pottery, welding and various visual arts while also using the space as one of the first Feed-A-Child programs in the area.

Ivan at a young age watched his father become a father figure to other children in the community. It was that giving and receiving of love – for one another and for the arts – that sparked his desire to continue his father’s legacy. Local and state officials, such as Weeks, Sumter Mayor David Merchant, state Sen. Thomas McElveen, D-Sumter, and S.C. Speaker

of the House Murrell Smith, R-Sumter, and community members served on the studio board to help Ivan envision a new look but savor that same feel of the beloved studio.

The expansion will include a new 8,000-squarefoot building in the lot next to the current studio at 241 Manning Ave., made possible by federal funding. It will house four primary therapies: music engagement, visual arts therapy, progressive writing and creative movement.

Deloris Williams, a grant writer and studio board member, emphasized the broader impact the expansion will have on South Sumter in becoming a “magnet for the arts.” The new building will have a modern, contemporary design while still respecting the historical significance of the area, she said.

Get involved VOLUNTEERING

Give back

Want to give back to the community while meeting new people? Volunteering is a great way to find purpose and people. Support children at Crosswell Home for Children or the Sumter Family YMCA. Help families at Habitat for Humanity or Midlands Fatherhood Coalition. Support the arts at the Sumter Opera House, provide for seniors at Meals on Wheels, love on animals at the SPCA, or help provide emergency services through a faith-based mission at Sumter United Ministries.

For more information and links, go to Love Sumter at sumtersc.gov/discover-sumter/living-here/community-resources.

Network

Sumter has civic and hobby clubs that range from Master Gardeners and Red Hat Society to Sumter Artists Guild and Sumter Digital Camera Club.

For more information and links, go to Love Sumter at sumtersc.gov/discover-sumter/living-here/community-resources.

Volunteer opportunities in Sumter are just a phone call away. Whatever your passion, there are plenty of volunteer opportunities in our community including, but not limited to:

• American Red Cross

• Children’s School Programs

• City of Sumter

• Crosswell Home for Children

• Habitat for Humanity

• Meals on Wheels

• Midlands Fatherhood Coalition

• Prisma Health Tuomey

• Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands

• Shepherd’s Center

• SPCA

• Sumter County

• Sumter County Cultural Center

• Sumter County Gallery of Art

• Sumter County

Genealogical Society

• Sumter County Museum

• Sumter County Recreation Department

• Sumter Green

• Sumter Little Theatre

• Sumter Opera House

• Sumter Senior Services

• Sumter United Ministries

• Sumter Volunteers

• United Way of Sumter, Clarendon and Lee Counties

• YMCA

• YWCA

Additionally, groups and clubs are a great way to volunteer your time. Most groups are actively involved with our local community and numerous philanthropic efforts.

• American Legion

• Chess Club

• Diabetes Support Group

• Friends of Swan Lake

• Lions Club

• Master Gardeners

• Newcomers Group

• Optimist Club

• Pilot Club

• Red Hat Society

• Rotary Club

• Sumter Artists Guild

• Sumter Digital Camera Club

• Sumter Easy Riders Bike Club

• Sumter Junior Welfare League

• VFW

MILITARY MUSEUM Sumter

A PLACE FOR FAMILIES TO SHARE THEIR VETERAN’S SERVICE WITH OTHERS

his life, not only as a historian, but also an educator and coach. He welcomes all to visit the museum to witness the collection on display and learn about Sumter’s past and present war heroes.

Museum as an offshoot of the Sumter County Museum. The expansion was largely funded by $23 million in state earmarks, and its staff is trying to raise an additional $5 million.

and present military members and their families – from uniforms and photographs to medals, canisters and dog

The Sumter Military Museum was brought to life by local historian Sammy Way and his wife, Rita, supported by the Sumter community and the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority. Way has been a walking encyclopedia for Sumter all

Way’s museum is filled to the brim with all things military history. To be more exact, about 400 uniforms, more than 9,000 samples of original war memorabilia and more than 10,000 images fill the space, and it’s time for it to move into a larger space so locals can continue to learn and see more of his collection.

After about 15 years on South Harvin Street, and 20 years of Way collecting, nearly 4 acres of land at 122 N. Washington St. and 201 W. Hampton Ave. were recently rezoned to make way for an expanded Sumter Military

At the new 30,000-squarefoot museum, there will be a space where locals can conduct their own research, a family history room, archives of The Sumter Item and a local history gallery featuring sculptor and jewelry designer Grainger McKoy, a Sumterite through and through.

In the meantime, Sumter Military Museum is open Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon and Sundays 2 to 4 p.m. Families and groups can request a tour in advance by calling (803) 469-7827. This number can also be called for more information.

Your guide to

dining Downtown

From scones to filets, salads to chicken prepared this way or that, from breakfast coffee to late-night drinks over ping pong or karaoke, there is something for everyone in Historic Downtown Sumter. It’s a perfect mix of storied icons, found in diner booths with

a whirly ding and in glass shadow boxes hanging over your burger named after someone you’ll just have to ask about, and of newer must-eats, from Southern soul food to Tex-Mex tastes. And don’t you dare balk at the brisket.

Sumter Original Brewery

Sumter Original Brewery is the very first brewery to open in Sumter. This 30,000-square-foot facility has three floors with large floor games like pool and ping pong on the second and a rooftop.

El Paso Tacos and Tequila

A family owned + operated Mexican restaurant with a fullservice Tequila bar located downtown Sumter.

J. O’Gradys

Dine inside or out on the recently renovated Rotary Plaza. Known for its burgers and sandwiches, J. O'Gradys offers a delicious menu and full bar.

* Not visible on map

SUMTER FARMERS’ MARKETS

Many farmers have joined the effort through agritourism, including the

AMERICAN LEGION FARMERS MARKET

Open on Fridays from noon to 5 p.m., this market offers fresh produce, locally raised meat products, crafts and gift items and ready-to-eat food. The best part? It’s inside a building on the American Legion and county fairgrounds, so it can stay open year-round.

no antibiotics or added growth hormones. The market is governed by its own board and held weekly on Fridays from noon to 5 p.m. from April 1 through Nov. 18.

Follow them on Facebook for vendor updates at facebook.com/sumterfarmersmarket.

SOUTH SUMTER FARMERS MARKET

312 Manning Ave.

This market offers fresh produce and other craft and community items seasonally in an area of Sumter that does not have nearby access to fresh produce. There’s usually someone cooking hot meals at the market. SFMNP senior and WIC vouchers are accepted. The market is open June-October on Fridays between 2 and 6 p.m.

CERTIFIED SC GROWN Choose local, choose fresh.

Follow them on Facebook for vendor updates at facebook.com/Americanlegionfarmersmarket more at americanlegionfarmersmarket.com.

GAMECOCK CITY FARMERS MARKET

853 Broad St.

Outside Central Carolina Technical College’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology Training Center, Sumter’s newest open-air market for local farmers, vendors and craftsmen welcomed about 400 guests to peruse booths, tents and stands selling locally grown and made produce and products on its opening day, June 1, 2024.

The market runs every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is continuing to add vendors so there is a little bit of something for everybody, from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade jewelry.

South Carolina has nearly 25,000 farms that cover about 5 million acres. Thanks to our rich soil, warm weather and more than 360 growing days a year, there’s always something fresh. See what’s in season now, as well as where you can buy local all over the state, by going to certifiedsc.com.

GO STRAIGHT TO THE SOURCE

SC AGRITOURISM ASSOCIATION FARMS

DORR FARMS – 5225 Dorr Acres Road, Gable – Attractions: farm animals, corn/crop maze, hayride, U-pick, pumpkin patch, roadside market; Direct sales: fresh fruit and produce, homemade soap/lotions, pumpkins, corn, straw bales, honey, eggs; event space

STORY BOOK FARM – 1485 Oswego Road, Sumter – Attractions: agriculture museum, farm animals, camp fires, school activities, greenhouse, hayride, pumpkin patch, roadside market, storytelling, summer camps, trail rides; Direct sales: fresh fruit and vegetables, pumpkins; event space

OTHER SC AGRITOURISM FARMS

COLEMAN FAMILY FARMS – 2155 Lloyd Drive, Sumter –Attractions: Choose n’ cut Christmas trees, gift shop, U-pick; Direct sales: eggs, baked goods

FORESTER FARMS – 993 Antlers Drive, Sumter

GREENFIELD FARM – 4585 Spencer Road, Rembert – Attractions: educational seminars, hayride, horseback riding/lessons, live entertainment, trail rides, wagon rides; Accommodations: campsites/RV

HILTON FARMS – 2691 Wedgefield Road, Sumter

– Attractions: U-pick, roadside market; Direct sales: organic blueberries, pecans, Bermuda hay

JUDSON FAMILY FARM – 190 Linran Lane, Sumter

– Attractions: farm animals, bird watching, camp fires, corn/crop maze, cow/goat milking, school activities, farm-to-table meals, hayride, native plants/ecology, summer camps, cemetery; Accommodations: short-term rental cottage; Direct sales: meat/ chicken/eggs, homemade soap/lotions, pumpkins, straw bales, honey; event space

RED BARN PONY PARK – 1955 Byrd Road, Dalzell

– Attractions: hayride, horseback riding/lessons, trail rides, therapeutic riding; event space

ROGERS VEGETABLE FARM – 4515 Cotton Acres Road, Sumter

THE TREEHOUSE NURSERY AND FEED SUPPLY – 3750 Thomas Sumter Highway, Dalzell – Attractions: gift shop, tours/guided; Direct sales: bedding plants, shrubs and trees, potted plants, local crafts

* For more information, go to https://agriculture.sc.gov/

INFORMATION Public Safety

Who to call for non-emergency help

Whether a native or a newcomer, knowing the law of any new land is vital to fully integrating into the community. To keep you well-acquainted with the law-abiding faces that serve and protect Sumter, get to know your public safety agencies.

Sumter Police Department

• Police Chief Russell Roark

• Assistant Police Chief Jeffery Jackson

• Responds to calls for businesses, venues and neighborhoods within the city limits

• Hosts community events including Black History Art/Essay Contest in February, National Night Out and Halloween-themed events in October, Cram-A-Cruiser during Christmas and more throughout the year.

To report a crime, call the emergency or non-emergency number, file a report in person with the Citizen’s Assistance Unit in the headquarters’ front lobby or visit sumterpd.com/contact.

Sumter County Sheriff’s Office

• Sheriff Anthony Dennis

• Chief Deputy Hampton Gardner

• Responds to calls within the Sumter County limits including zip codes 29040, 29150, 29151, 29153 and 29154

• Hosts Community Relations Advisory Board meetings to maintain a positive and interactive rapport with citizens and increase public confidence in law enforcement and public safety matters in the community; Citizen’s Academy, a free six-week course where attendees get behind-the-scenes look at four weeks of police academy training; and holiday-themed and awareness community events

• To report a crime, call the sheriff’s office at (803) 436-2000 or call 911

Sumter County Emergency Medical Services

• EMS Director Kent Hall

• Established in 1969 out of the Tuomey Regional Medical Center; taken over by county government in 1997

• Responds to ~ 22,000 calls for service and transports ~ 18,000 people annually

• Operates seven ambulances daily, two quick-response vehicles and two additional contract ambulances through Guidance Ambulance

• Two substations in the county:

• Medic 2 located at 3231 Frierson Road in Dalzell; responds to Dalzell, Rembert, Cherryvale and parts of Wedgefield communities

• Medic 6 located at 10565 Douglas Swamp Road in Lynchburg; responds to Shiloh, Lynchburg, Mayesville and Olanta communities

Sumter Animal Control

• Primary role is to limit number of stray animals on the streets

• Responds to calls of vicious animals running at large, dog or cat bites and nuisance animals

• To report:

• Animal running at large and nuisance animals, call (803) 436-2066

• Animal bites or and suspected cruelty or neglect, call (803) 436-2775

• Suspected dog fighting, call the Narcotics Division at (803) 436-2759

Sumter Fire Department and sub fire stations

• Chief Karl Ford

• Assistant Chief Ernie Dollard (city operations)

• Five full-time fire stations

• 17 volunteer substations throughout the county

at 315 Lafayette Drive I

case of an emergency, call 911.

phone: (803) 436-2600

Located at 1240 Winkles Road

Located at 131 E. Hampton Ave. I Non-emergency phone: (803) 436-2415

PUBLIC SCHOOLS PRIVATE

Sumter School District

1345 Wilson Hall Road, Sumter, SC (803) 469-6900

Elementary Schools

Alice Drive Elementary School 251 Alice Drive, Sumter (803) 775-0857

Cherryvale Elementary School 1420 Furman Drive, Sumter (803) 494-8200

Crosswell Drive Elementary School

301 Crosswell Drive, Sumter (803) 775-0679

High Hills Elementary School

4971 Frierson Road, Shaw AFB (803) 499-3327

Kingsbury Elementary School

825 Kingsbury Drive, Sumter (803) 775-6244

Lemira Elementary School

952 Fulton St., Sumter (803) 775-0658

Manchester Elementary School

200 Clark St., Pinewood (803) 452-5454

Millwood Elementary School 24 Pinewood Road, Sumter (803) 775-0648

Oakland Primary School

5415 Oakland Drive, Sumter (803) 499-3366

Pocalla Springs Elementary School 2060 Bethel Church Road, Sumter (803) 481-5800

Rafting Creek Elementary School

4100 Hwy. 261 North, Rembert (803) 432-2994

R.E. Davis College Preparatory Academy

345 Eastern School Road, Sumter (803) 495-3247

Shaw Heights Elementary School 5121 Frierson Road, Shaw AFB (803) 666-2335

Wilder Elementary School

975 S. Main St., Sumter (803) 773-5723

Willow Drive Elementary School

26 Willow Drive, Sumter (803) 773-5796

Middle Schools

Alice Drive Middle School

40 Miller Road, Sumter (803) 775-0821

Bates Middle School

715 Estate St., Sumter (803) 775-0711

Chestnut Oaks Middle School 1200 Oswego Road, Sumter (803) 775-7272

Ebenezer Middle School 3440 Ebenezer Road, Sumter (803) 469-8571

Furman Middle School

3400 Bethel Church Road, Sumter (803) 481-8519

Hillcrest Middle School

4355 Peach Orchard Road, Dalzell (803) 499-3341

R.E. Davis College Preparatory Academy

345 Eastern School Road, Sumter (803) 495-3247

HIGH SCHOOLS / CAREER CENTER

Crestwood High School 2000 Oswego Road, Sumter (803) 469-6200

Lakewood High School

350 Old Manning Road, Sumter (803) 506-2700 or 803-506-2704

Sumter High School

2580 McCrays Mill Road, Sumter (803) 481-4480

Sumter Career and Technology Center 2612 McCrays Mill Road, Sumter (803) 481-8575

Alternative School

Sumter Academy for Support and Intervention

475 Crosswell Drive, Sumter (803) 774-5900

Adult Education

Sumter County Adult Education

905 N. Main St., Sumter (803) 778-6432

Charter School

Liberty STEAM Charter School

Administrative Office

117 N. Main St., Sumter (803) 720-5652

AND INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy

68 Market St., Sumter (803) 774-5549 or (803) 469-6058

Sumter Christian School

420 S. Pike West, Sumter (803) 773-1902

Thomas Sumter Academy 5265 Camden Hwy., Rembert (803) 499-3378

Wedgefield University for Kids 6220 Wedgefield Road, Sumter (803) 494-3887

Westside Christian Academy 554 Pinewood Road, Sumter (803) 774-4406

Wilson Hall

520 Wilson Hall Road, Sumter (803) 469-3475

COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

Central Carolina Technical College

506 N. Guignard Drive, Sumter (803) 778-1961

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

398 Shaw Drive #112, Shaw AFB (803) 666-7401

Morris College

100 W. College St., Sumter (803) 934-3200

Saint Leo University

2751 S. Wise Drive, Sumter (803) 469-0026

Troy University

465 Rast St., Sumter Sumter campus (803) 773-0025; Shaw campus (803) 666-3313

University of South Carolina Sumter

200 Miller Road, Sumter (803) 775-8727

Webster University

398 Shaw Drive, Shaw AFB (803) 666-2254

Parks & Recreation

Find a free place to play, relax

or exercise

Here is a list of public parks in Sumter County. For more information, including amenities, addresses and hours, go to www.sumtersc.gov/community/outdoor.

PATRIOT PARK

380 General Drive, Sumter, SC 29150

SWAN LAKE IRIS GARDENS

822 W. Liberty St., Sumter, SC 29150

State parks

• Poinsett State Park (pet-friendly*)

• Thomas Sumter Memorial Park (pet-friendly*)

• Woods Bay State Park (petfriendly*)

• Manchester State Forest

City parks

• Benton Park

• Birnie HOPE Park

• Chamber Park

• College Park

• Crosswell Park

• Dunway Park

• Eastwood Park

• Fulton Park

• Grier Street Park

• Herbert Circle

• Jenkins Center

• Lawton Park

• Lindley Park

• Logan Park

• Memorial Park (pet-friendly*)

• Moore Street Park

• North HOPE Park

• Optimist Park

• Palmetto Park (pet-friendly*)

• Parker Street Park

• Riley Park

• Rolling Creek Park

• Shot Pouch Greenway

County parks

• Spray Parks

• South Sumter Park

• Swan Lake Iris Gardens (open Friday of Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day)

• North HOPE Park

• V.I.M. Park

Try one of Sumter’s five free splash pads, all with green spaces for picnics:

• Crosswell Park, corner of Lafayette Drive and Yeadon Street;

• North HOPE Park, 904 N. Main St.;

• South Sumter Park, corner of South Sumter and Atlantic streets;

• Birnie HOPE Park, 210 S. Purdy St.; and

• Palmetto Park, off Theatre Drive, between the tennis center and ball fields.

For more information, call (803) 436-2640

• Cypress Park (pet-friendly*)

• Dillon Park (pet-friendly, with offleash option inside dog park)

• Mill Creek Park (pet-friendly*)

• Patriot Park (pet-friendly*)

• Veterans Park

Disc Golf

Dillon Park

Established: 2015

Course: 20 holes

Availability: Year-round

Course details: Mostly flat going in and out of the woods. A mix of tightly wooded holes and open. Two creeks coming in to play on almost all the holes.

Tees: Concrete, grass, dirt, outdoor carpet

Targets: Veteran

Property: Mixed use, public park

Services: Dogs allowed, cart-friendly, restrooms available, drinking water available

Where: Clara Louise Kellogg Drive, Sumter

Cost to play: Free

Live Oak Park

Established: 2021

Course: 18 holes

Availability: Year-round

Course details: Compact technical course with vines hanging as obstacles

Tees: Grass

Palmetto Tennis Center

The Palmetto Tennis Center is located inside Palmetto Park. It boasts state-of-the-art hard tennis courts and four new pickleball courts all lit for night play, and four on-site tennis pros offer private lessons and group clinics for beginner to advanced players from ages 3 and up. Other amenities include a tennis shop, two ball machines, stringing service, tournament-training building and restrooms. Admission for regular tennis or pickleball play is free of charge and first come, first served. Check in at the main office prior to entering a court.

Contact for more information

Phone: (803) 774-3969

Email: palmettotennis@sumtersc.gov

Where: 400 Theatre Drive, Sumter, SC 29150

Hours

Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. I Saturday: 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. I Sunday: 1-9 p.m.

* Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, special events and during inclement weather.

Targets: Liberty

Property: Mixed use, public park

Services: Dogs allowed, cart-friendly

Where: Live Oak Park, Sumter (intersection of U.S. 15 and Clipper Road)

Cost to play: Free

Lindley “Hidden” Park

Established: 2020

Course: 9 holes

Availability: Year-round

Course details: Open, some trees, flat. A short pitch and putt for novice players or for working on upshots. Distances range from 90 to 230 feet, with most around 150 feet. Neighborhood backyards surround the course with dogs in many.

Tees: Grass

Targets: Mach New II

Property: Mixed use, public park

Services: Dogs allowed, cart-friendly

Where: Lindley Avenue, Sumter (access across from Lesesne Court at intersection of Lesesne Drive or on Lindley Avenue between Lesesne Drive and Benton Drive. It looks like a driveway, but it’s not.)

Cost to play: Free

Shaw Air Force Base

Established: 2019

Course: 9 holes

Availability: Year-round, military/DoD ID holders have all-day access. EAL individuals have weekend access. NonDoD ID holders can ride with military/ DoD ID any time.

Course details: Brand-new Innova DisCatcher Pros, tee signs/next tee signs and pads. Red (short) pads for beginners, white/blue (long) league alternate pads to make 18 holes. Elevation change. Moderately wooded. Some water hazard.

Tees: Concrete

Targets: DISCatcher Pro (original)

Property: Mixed use, military base, private land

Services: Cart-friendly

Where: Shaw Air Force Base

Cost to play: Free

LZSO TRAINING WITH THE 20TH OSS

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. — When the mission demands precise and timely landings, even the most challenging terrain can be overcome. Landing zone safety officers play a critical role in ensuring aircraft can safely touch down in contingency locations, no matter how remote or underdeveloped.

The 20th Operations Support Squadron conducted LZSO training on the flightline at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Aug. 22-23, 2024, sharpening the skills needed to ensure safe landings in any environment.

The LZSO’s role demands versatility and a broad skill set. Members are required to learn and perform tasks between multiple career fields, including air traffic control, weather monitoring, airfield management and civil engineering. This cross-disciplinary expertise allows them to accomplish more with less and better overcome any obstacles they may face.

“The LZSO is the designated representative responsible for various aspects of airfield operations,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dakota Bartz, 20th OSS air traffic control watch supervisor and LZSO trainee. “Essentially, they’re prepared to go downrange and put up an airfield anywhere as needed.”

20th OSS trainers designed the training to prepare LZSO airmen to certify for worldwide deployment, ensuring their ability to establish safe and effective runways on any terrain, anywhere in the world.

“I’m guiding them through the steps as if they’ve been tasked,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Denver Davis, 20th OSS ATC noncommissioned officer incharge of standards and evaluation and LZSO instructor. “Eighty percent of our work is done before we even leave the office. We collect data and build a plan. When you show up, your plan is already in place, so you’re…verifying that all your information is correct then executing. You lay down panels and lights, measure [the runway] and start landing aircraft.”

The LZSO training provided by the 20th OSS ensures airmen are equipped with the foundational knowledge and skills to certify as world-deployable landing zone safety officers. By learning skills from various career fields, trainees are better prepared to establish safe landing zones in any environment and overcome any obstacles they may face. Once certified, this training will be a critical step in ensuring trainees can contribute to mission success globally.

20th Fighter Wing Story by Senior Airman Steven Cardo

•

Emergency at 580 feet

20th Fighter Wing

Story by Staff Sgt. Kelsey Owen

It’s a quiet weekend afternoon, and there’s only one air traffic controller in Shaw Tower.

That controller is Staff Sgt. Samuel McLean, 20th Operations Support Squadron

ATC watch supervisor, and he is currently discussing the single U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon on approach with radar approach control.

Everything, it seems, is routine. So, when the phone starts ringing — on an infrequently used line, no less — McLean

gets his first taste of the unusual.

“I’m in a lot of trouble,” says the voice on the other end.

That voice belongs to a civilian pilot, an 18-year-old in a Cessna 550 Citation II who recently departed Sumter Airport en route for Columbia, with his cousin on board as a passenger. His aircraft has experienced a total catastrophic failure — fuel is leaking at an unknown rate, and the radio and transponder have stopped functioning. While a normal aircraft in this

area would be at an altitude of 2,000-3,000 feet, this one is only at 580, and descending.

“He sounded absolutely terrified,” McLean said.

With McLean unable to locate him on radar due to the malfunctioning transponder, the pilot, speaking on a cell phone, has to give McLean an approximation of his location based only on recognizable landmarks: just past McEntire Joint National Guard Base, about 20 miles west of Shaw, flying westbound with a heading of about 290 degrees.

He wants to return to Sumter, but he’s going the wrong direction. McLean gives him a corrected heading of about 110 degrees, which will bring him back east in the direction of Shaw and the Sumter Airport.

While on the phone with the pilot, McLean also has to coordinate with RAPCON to reroute the F-16 into a high holding pattern, since he is unsure of where the civilian aircraft is in the airspace.

Eventually, he does catch sight of the aircraft over the tree line and proceeds to give suggested headings based solely on line-of-sight — a difficult feat to accomplish because vectoring relies heavily on the use of radar, which was not an option in this circumstance.

“I kept the pilot on the phone until he saw Shaw,” McLean said. “With his altitude being so low, he still couldn’t see Sumter.”

Thankfully, as he flies closer, the pilot is able to catch sight of Sumter Airport. McLean asks if he is able to make it there, and the pilot responds in the affirmative, though he notes that he is flying too fast for landing.

“It was really good for me to hear that he was going too fast on final at first because I

knew he could slow down without using the gas he had left,” McLean said. “Once he said he was good to land, I told him to call me back so I could make sure he got down safely.”

McLean does receive a call back after the pilot lands, marking an end to an unusual and stressful event for the both of them.

“McLean’s ‘out-of-the-box’ thinking and his immediate reactions directly saved the lives of two civilians, and prevent -

ed the aircraft from crashing,” said Brian Egger, 20th OSS ATC watch supervisor.

“It was definitely the craziest thing that I’ve experienced, and hopefully the craziest thing I’ll ever experience,” McLean said.

McLean was awarded an Air and Space Achievement Medal for his outstanding performance in this highly abnormal situation.

ELECTED OFFICIALS

SUMTER COUNTY VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS OFFICE

• Patricia Jefferson, director

• 141 N. Main St. Sumter, SC 29150

• (803) 436-2310

• Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m.

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION REPRESENTING SUMTER COUNTY

Lindsey Graham (R)

290 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-5972

508 Hampton St., Suite 202 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 933-0112

www.lgraham.senate.gov/ public/

Tim Scott (R) 104 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-6121

1901 Main St., Suite 1425 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 771-6112 www.scott.senate.gov/

Ralph Norman (R) 569 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-5501

454 S. Anderson Road, Suite 302 B Rock Hill, SC 29730 (803) 327-1114 norman.house.gov/

James E. “Jim” Clyburn (D) 200 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-3315

1225 Lady St., Suite 200 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 799-1100 clyburn.house.gov/

STATE SENATORS

To email a member of the state Senate: bit. ly/2C2JWGK

Jeffrey Graham (D-Camden) District 35

Kershaw, Lee, Richland and Sumter

508 Gressette Bldg. Columbia, SC 29201 Business: (803) 212-6008

Message: https://www. scstatehouse.gov/email. php?T=M&C=703124916

Jeff Zell (R-Sumter)

Calhoun, Clarendon, Orangeburg and Sumter

Business: (803) 212-6040

Message: https://www. scstatehouse.gov/email. php?T=M&C=1999431789

STATE REPRESENTATIVES

To email a member of the state House of Representatives: bit.ly/2s7h1R6

Will Wheeler III, (D-Bishopville)

District 50

Kershaw, Lee, Sumter 422B Blatt Bldg. Columbia, SC 29201

Bishopville Office: (803) 484-5454

Columbia Office: (803) 212-6958 Home: (803) 428-3161

David Weeks, (D-Sumter) District 51 Sumter

308D Blatt Bldg. Columbia, SC 29201 Sumter Office: (803) 7755856

Columbia Office: (803) 734-3102 Home: (803) 775-4228

Fawn Pedalino (R-Manning)

District 64

Clarendon, Sumter 422D Blatt Bldg. Columbia, SC 29201 Business: (803) 212-6929 Home: (803) 938-3087

Murrell Smith (R-Sumter)

Speaker of the House District 67 Sumter 525B Blatt Bldg. Columbia, SC 29201 Sumter Office: (803) 7782471

Columbia Office: (803) 7343144 Home: (803) 469-4416

SUMTER COUNTY COUNCIL

Council meets at 6 p.m. every second and fourth Tuesday at 13 E. Canal St.

Carlton Washington (D) District 1 13 E. Canal St. Sumter, SC 29150 Home: (803) 436-2102 cwashington@ sumtercountysc.org

Artie Baker (R)

District 2

3680 Bakersfield Lane Dalzell, SC 29040

Home: (803) 469-3638 council@sumtercountysc.org

Jimmy Byrd Jr. (R) Vice Chairman

District 3

P.O. Box 1913 Sumter, SC 29151

Mobile: (803) 468-1719

Fax: (803) 436-2108 jbyrd@sumtercountysc.org

Charles Edens (R)

District 4

3250 Home Place Road Sumter, SC 29150 Home: (803) 775-0044 Mobile: (803) 236-5759 charlestedens@gmail.com

Vivian Fleming-McGhaney (D)

District 5

9770 Lynches River Road Lynchburg, SC 29080

Home: (803) 437-2797

Business: (803) 495-3247 vmcghaney@ sumtercountysc.org

James T. "Jim" McCain Jr. (D)

Chairman District 6 317 W. Bartlette St. Sumter, SC 29150 Home: (803) 773-2353 Cell: (803) 607-2777 jmccain@sumtercountysc. org

Tasha Gardner-Greene District 7 council@sumtercountysc.org

SUMTER CITY COUNCIL Council meets on the first Tuesday at 1 p.m. and the third Tuesday at 5 p.m. at the Sumter Opera House, 21 N. Main St., 4th floor. Members are nonpartisan.

David Merchant Mayor 26 Paisley Park Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-1086 dmerchant@sumtersc.gov

Anthony Gibson Ward 1 agibson@sumtersc.gov

James Blassingame Ward 2 3060 Foxcroft Circle, Sumter 29154 (803) 840-1029 jblassingame@sumtersc.gov

Calvin Hastie Sr. Ward 3 810 S. Main St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 774-7776 chastie@sumtersc.gov

Rebecca Lynn Kennedy Ward 4 rkennedy@sumtersc.gov

Colin Davis Ward 5 720 Oak Brook Blvd. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 494-3337 cdavis@sumtersc.gov

Gifford Shaw Ward 6 28 Paisley Park Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 773-5918 gshaw@sumtersc.gov

SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES Attend virtually by searching “Sumter School District Board Meetings” on YouTube, or watch on Facebook @SumterSCSchools. Trustees are non partisan.

Brian Alston District 1 Vice Chairman District 1 3385 North Kings Hwy. 261 Rembert, SC 29128 (803) 572-1938 brian.alston@sumterschools. net

Brittany English District 2 6760 Spring Hill Rd. Rembert, SC 29128 803-968-8899 brittany.english@ sumterschools.net

Ralph Canty Sr. Chairman District 3 104 S. Salem Ave. Sumter, SC 29150 803-983-1469 ralph.canty@sumterschools.net

Tarah Cousar Johnson District 4 4770 Narrow Paved Rd. Lynchburg, SC 29080 843-412-4811 tarah.cousarjohnson@ sumterschools.net

Shawn Ragin Chairman District 5 3835 Quiet Court Sumter, SC 29150 803-464-6859

Shawnragin89@gmail.com

Matthew "Mac" McLeod District 6 2985 Bruce Circle Sumter, SC 29154 (803) 938-2701/Cell mac.mcleod@ sumterschools.net

Gloria Rose Lee Clerk

710 Shepard St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 464-6414

Gloria.lee@sumterschools.net

Bonnie Disney District 9 Swan Lake Dr. Sumter, SC 29150 803-983-0268 bonnie.disney@ sumterschools.net

District 8

*A special election to fill the unexpired term of Jeff Zell had not occurred when this magazine printed.

A P P L Y

T O D A Y !

#2 TWO-YEAR COLLEGE IN SOUTH CAROLINA* AFFORDABLE

CLOSE TO HOME AND SAFE SMALL CLASS SIZE

ONLINE OR IN-PERSON CLASSES

FREE TUTORING FOR CURRENT STUDENTS

TER SUM SC

WELCOME WEASELS!

Sumter wants to show you what we have to offer! Join us on the FREE 2-hour Taste of Sumter Tour to discover the best of your new home!

Find out what amenities the City of Sumter has availablefrom food, recreation, & shopping to relocation resources, we’ve got you covered.

Contact the M&FRC to find out when you can take the tour! Stop in and visit or call:

Military & Family Readiness Center 524 Stuart Ave. (803) 895-1253

Sumter Visitor Center 822 West Liberty St. (803) 436-2640