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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 | IMAGESSUMTERCO.COM SUMTER, SOUTH CAROLINA ®

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The eighth-largest city in South Carolina, Sumter enjoys a thriving downtown core, thanks to recent revitalization efforts. The city’s population hovers around 40,000, while surrounding Sumter County’s population is about 104,000. It’s a hospitable community with lots of friendly people, and it often attracts retirees looking for a comfortable climate year-round and a convenient location.

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Images Sumter, SC: 2012

makes centsPenny for Progress program gets results

atten-HutFamed Third Army arrives

sponsored by tHe Greater sumter cHamber of commerce and tHe sumter economic development board

2012 | imaGessumterco.com

sumter, soutH carolina

®

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on tHe cover Patton HallPhoto by Antony Boshier

departments

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

2012 edition | volume 2

sumter, soutH carolina

®

contents

Features

12 atten-Hut Famed Third Army arrives

16 play ballAmerican Legion Baseball has been a Sumter staple for years

20 american spirit, Global edGeSumter County combines right ingredients for positive growth

24 makes centsPenny for Progress program gets results

26 all for oneSchool district moves forward

16

26All or part of this magazine is printed on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

pleaserecyclethismagazine

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

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.

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What’sonlineimagessumterco.com

makes centsPenny for Progress program gets results

atten-HutFamed Third Army arrives

sponsored by tHe Greater sumter cHamber of commerce and tHe sumter economic development board

2012 | imaGessumterco.com

sumter, soutH carolina

®

Visually explore Sumter in our online photo and video galleries

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

Photos & Videos

digital magazine

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

liVing hereLearn the basics about local neighborhoods, schools and health care providers

Page 10: Images Sumter, SC: 2012

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

[email protected] www.sumterchamber.com

Page 11: Images Sumter, SC: 2012

www.WeSellSumter.com

Serving Sumter, Shaw and Surrounding Areas

Since 1954

©2011 Prudential Financial Inc. and its related entities. Prudential Real Estate Brokerage services are offered through the independently owned and operated franchisees of Prudential Real Estate Inc., Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the rock symbol are registered service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, used under license. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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

Digital Edition

share with a Friendeasily share an interesting article, stunning photo or advertisement of your business on Facebook, twitter or via email.

haVe a Blog or weBsite?embed the digital magazine in your site to add compelling, local information.

do more than JUst read aBoUt itexperience the community through video and find links to other sites for additional information.

imagessumterco.com

®

play ball

SToRY BY cary estes

the 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.”

tournamentsSumter usually plays host to at least one American

Legion tournament every year. The city has been a

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

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

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Welcome to SumterAn inTroducTion To The AreA’s PeoPle, PlAces And evenTs

Fired UpThe 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.

Promoting Wellness, Having Fun

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. Saluting the TroopsSumter 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.

Almanac

PHoTo CoURTeSY oF THe SUMTeR DeVeLoPMeNT BoARD

8 sumTer

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Park ItLocated 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.

Play on at Patriot ParkLocated 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.

Above ParHome 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.

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10 GardensWhere Inspiration Grows

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

Sumtermade the list.10 Gardens to InspireSee more Top 10 lists at Livability.com.

JAPANESE GARDENS AT LAKE SACAJAWEA

Longview, WA

WATER GARDENFort Worth, TX

TYLER MUNICIPAL ROSE GARDENTyler, TX

SWAN LAKE IRIS GARDENSSumter, SC

CHEYENNE BOTANIC GARDENSCheyenne, WY

CINNAMON CREEK TROPICAL BUTTERFLY GARDEN

Boerne, TX

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-SANTA CRUZ ARBORETUM

Santa Cruz, CA

WICHITA GARDENS-BOTANICAWichita, KS

DANIEL STOWE BOTANICAL GARDENGastonia, NC

CAPE FEAR BOTANICAL GARDENFayetteville, NC

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City

City

City City

STATE

River

Main City Name312

3121

COUNTY NAMEO TY13

To City

301

401

521

763

378

SUMTER

L. Marion

Oakland

Rimini

Pocalla Springs

Rembert

Pinewood

Mayesville

Sumter

20

95

Columbia

S o u t h C a r o l i n aState CapitalsCounty SeatCities 500,000+Cities 100,000-499,999Cities 50,000-99,999Cities 10,000-49,999

Cities 0-9,999

Interstate HighwaysU.S. HighwaysState Roads

Major RiversIntermediate RiversLakes

State BoundariesCounty Boundaries

0

0

50 Miles

50 KM

25 Miles

25 KM

10 Miles

10 KM

Sumter

population (2010 estimate)Sumter: 40,524

Sumter County: 107,456

locationSumter is located in the Midlands region

of South Carolina, approximately 45

miles east of Columbia, the state capital.

beGinninGsThe city of Sumter was incorporated

in 1845, starting out as an agricultural

community. The opening of Shaw Air

Force Base in 1941 gave the area an

economic boost and growth spurt.

for more information

Greater Sumter

Chamber of Commerce

32 e. Calhoun St.

Sumter, SC 29150

(803) 775-1231

www.sumterchamber.com

sumterataglance

FastFactsn Pro basketball player ray Allen attended high school in sumter county, where he led hillcrest high school to a state championship.

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.

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.

n sumter was the first city in the u.s. to adopt the council-manager form of government, now used as the nation’s standard.

n sumter is home to country music star lee Brice.

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 all-

weather, 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.

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the 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.

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

relocation from atlanta to sHaW air force base Hailed

Third Army Arrives

SToRY BY m.v. Greene PHoToGRAPHY BY antony bosHier

atten-Hut:

12 sumTer

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patton Hall, the location of the third army’s new main command post

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What’sonline

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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play ball

SToRY BY cary estes

the 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.”

tournamentsSumter usually plays host to at least one American

Legion tournament every year. The city has been a

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

16 sumTer imAgessumTerco.com 17

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goyankees!Bobby Richardson,

a Sumter native and supporter of American

Legion Baseball, played for the New York Yankees

from 1955-1966.

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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.”

riley parkGames 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 richardsonOne 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 ParkP

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sumter 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.”

sumter county combines tHe riGHt inGredients for positive GroWtH

American Spirit,

SToRY BY betsy Williams | PHoToGRAPHY BY antony bosHier

Global edGe

Kaydon employees inspect and assemble bearings at its sumter facility.

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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

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

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

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All men are created equal …

then they get dressed.

HOURS Mon.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Other days/times by appointment

505 S. Wise Dr. Sumter, SC 29150

(803) 905-4299 www.canthonymenswear.com

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 attitudeSchwedler 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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SToRY BY kevin litWinPHoToGRAPHY BY antony bosHier

penny 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 prideCaison 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.

“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 upBesides 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.”

penny for proGress proGram Gets positive results

makes centsIt Just

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What’sonlineFor 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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it 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 behindBynum 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 soldierBynum 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 moraleBynum 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.”

scHool district moves forWard in first year of consolidation

All for One

SToRY BY kevin litWinPHoToGRAPHY BY antony bosHier

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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SB

C

SUMTER BEAUTYCOLLEGE

• Complete Cosmetology Training• Small Classes• Financial Aid for Those Who Qualify• Services Performed by Supervised Students• Continuing Education Classes

AWARD-WINNING SCHOOL Since 1961

921 Carolina Ave. Sumter, SC

(803) 773-7311www.sumterbeautycollege.com

Charter, Rental and Instruction 2945 Airport Rd. • Sumter, SC 29153 • 803-469-4639

Gateways to Your Charter Needs and Dreams of Flight!

and

at the Sumter Airport

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scorecardbusiness at a Glance

$1.6billionannual retail sales

$21,378retail sales

per capita

$96millionannual hotel

and food sales

3,275total number

of firms

Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

Business

Biz BriefsBusinesses – BoTh lArge And smAll – ThAT helP deFine

sumTer’s economic climATe

simpson HardWareBiz: Hardware storeBuzz: 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 servicesBiz: ConstructionBuzz: 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

brick streetBiz: Coffee shop/cafeBuzz: 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

art bradHamBiz: AccountingBuzz: 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

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Business

chamberreportchAmBer celeBrATing 100 yeArs in 2012

Grier 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 council-manager 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 JobsHe 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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Rebecca B. Compton, ASID, CKD

NCIDQ Certificate #9127

(803) 774-0406www.gallery406interiors.com

I N T E R I O R D E S I G N

CU S TO M CA B I NETRY

KI

TC

HE

N

&

BA

TH

D

ES

IG

N

maJor employers

Shaw Air Force Base

6,866

Pilgrim’s Pride

2,210

Tuomey Healthcare System

1,544

Sumter School District

2,700

income

$21,704Per capita income

$46,004Average Annual household expenditure

7%graduate degree

economic resources

greater sumter chamber of commerce32 e. Calhoun St.

Sumter, SC 29150

(803) 775-1231

[email protected]

www.sumterchamber.com

city of sumter21 N. Main St.

Sumter, SC 29150

(803) 436-2500

[email protected]

www.sumter-sc.com

sumter county13 e. Canal St.

Sumter, SC 29150

(803) 436-2102

www.sumtercountysc.org

[email protected]

sumter economic development Board32 e. Calhoun St.

Sumter, SC 29150

(803) 418-0700, (800) 888-7926

www.sumteredge.com

taXes

8%city sales and use Tax

7%county sales Tax

6%state sales Tax

2.5%-7%state income Tax

Workforce

70%White-collar Jobs

30%Blue-collar Jobs

education

27%Associate degree

12%Bachelor’s degree

economic overvieWSumter’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.

economic profile

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Second Millpond

Photo by Antony Boshier

Image Gallery

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Sumter County Museum

Photo by Todd Bennett

34 sumTer

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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

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Hungry 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.

caFés,diners,delisCafé 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

Deli and order from a menu

filled with sandwiches, subs

and tasty salads.

all-americanhotdogs,internationalcuisine

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.

FinediningTwo 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 slow-

roasted 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

FlavorfuloptionsFind your FAvoriTe Foods in locAl resTAurAnTs

Local Flavor

Hugh’s shrimp and grits from café on main

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sumter, 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.

artandtheaterNeed 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

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.

FestivalsgaloreSumter County citizens sure

know how to throw a party – and

they do it often. Sumter’s long-

running 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

KeepingcultureseekersentertainedThe PossiBiliTies Are neArly endless in This hisTory-rich AreA

Arts & Culture

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art by thomas Whichard at patriot Hall

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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.

locallandmarKsThe 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 Richardson-

Romanesque 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

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

sumtercountymuseum

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

2491 Broad St. • Sumter, SC 29150 Directly behind Applebee’s and IHOP

(803) 469-6666 • (803) 469-6667 faxwww.countryinns.com/sumtersc

Walking distance to: IHOP (open 24 hours)

Applebee’s Logan’s Roadhouse

Chili’s Outback Steakhouse

Indoor Heated Pool GYM

Free HOT Breakfast

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sumter 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.

Women’sservicesTuomey’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.

aimingforgoodhealthsumTer’s Tuomey heAlThcAre sysTem Provides FirsT-rATe services

Health & Wellness

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advancedcancertechnology

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 pre-

and 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-termcareWhen 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

301Number of beds

1,500Number of jobs provided by

Tuomey Regional Medical Center

150+Number of physicians

2007Year James E. Bell Jr. Women and

Infants Pavilion was added

tuomey Healthcare system

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42 sumTer 42 sumTer

thinkoutsidetheBoxsTrong PrivATe schools, higher educATion oPTions AvAilABle

education

Go 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:

privateschoolsSome 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,

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.

highereducationThe 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

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42 sumTer

from far left: students at morris college’s Forensics center; Anderson library at The university of south carolina sumter

Page 48: Images Sumter, SC: 2012

outdoorFantasygeT FiT And hAve Fun in sumTer

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outdoor 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.

parKsandtrailsThe 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, Rembert-

Rafting 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.

poolsandlaKesMake 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

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.

golFcoursesNotable 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

Sports & Recreation

6039-TR12260M_TGB_Livability.indd 1 3/22/10 11:40:09 AM 44 sumTer imAgessumTerco.com 45

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Lifestyle Options:

•IndependentLiving

•AssistedLiving

•SkilledNursingCare

•SecuredMemoryCare

•MedicarePartA Short-TermRehabilitation

Sumter’s Only Continuing Care

Retirement Community

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

visit ouradvertisersBank of Clarendonwww.bankofclarendon.com

Belladonna LLC

Bioenergy Technologieswww.bioenergyglobal.com

C. Anthony’s Menswearwww.canthonysmenswear.com

Central Carolina Technical Collegewww.cctech.edu

City of Sumterwww.sumtersc.gov

Country Inn & Suiteswww.countryinn.com/sumtersc

Covenant Placewww.covenantplace.org

Gallery 406 Interiorswww.gallery406interiors.com

Greater Sumter Chamber of Commercewww.sumterchamber.com

Hangar Twelvewww.hangartwelve.com

Kaydon Corporationwww.kaydonbearings.com

Morris Collegewww.morris.edu

Nicole Norris Design Studio Inc.www.nicolenorrisdesign.com

On Eagles’ Wings Inc.www.sumterairport.com

Piggly Wiggly

Prudential – John M. Brabham Real Estatewww.wesellsumter.com

SAFE Federal Credit Unionwww.safefed.org

Sumter Beauty College Inc.www.sumterbeautycollege.com

Sumter Countywww.sumtercountysc.org

Sumter Development Boardwww.sumteredge.com

Sykes Enterprises Inc.www.sykes.com

The Southern Crosswww.cannofsiam.com

Thompson Construction Groupwww.thompson.southeast.com

University of South Carolina Sumterwww.uscsumter.edu

sumter, soutH carolina

®

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contributinG Writers BARBARA BIeHLeR,

CARY eSTeS, M.V. GReeNe, JeSSICA MoZo,

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JANINe MARYLAND, KRIS SeXToN, VIKKI WILLIAMS

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Web development lead YAMeL HALL

Web developer i NeLS NoSeWoRTHY

Web account manaGer LAUReN eUBANK

pHotoGrapHy director JeFFReY S. oTTo

media tecHnoloGy director CHRISTINA CARDeN

publication desiGn director MURRY KeITH

media tecHnoloGy analysts BeCCA ARY,

CHANDRA BRADSHAW

audience development director DeANNA NeLSoN

marketinG creative director KeITH HARRIS

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 [email protected].

for more information, contact:Greater Sumter County Chamber of Commerce

32 e. Calhoun St. • Sumter, SC 29150Phone: (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

46 sumTer imAgessumTerco.com 47

Page 51: Images Sumter, SC: 2012

Utilize the skill and knowledge of seasoned design professionals …

residential • CoMMerCial MediCal • hospitalitY

466 n. guignard dr. sumter, sC 29150

(803) 773-8083 www.nicolenorrisdesign.com

This secTion is sPonsored By

cost of livinG

$42,609median household income

$134,500median home Price

$578median rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

WeatHer

91°FJuly Average high

34°FJanuary Average low

48”Annual rain Fall (vs. national Average Annual rain Fall of 37”)

42%Black

2%hispanic

4%other

numbers to knoW

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

HouseHold information

aGe:

38median resident Age

27%Age 19 and under

46%Age 20-54

27%Age 55 and over

marital status:

51%married

49%single

etHnicity:

52%White

community overvieWSumter 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.

community profile

46 sumTer imAgessumTerco.com 47

Page 52: Images Sumter, SC: 2012

Ad Index 32 BankofClarendon

C3 BelladonnallC

C3 BioenergyTeChnologies

23 C.anThony’sMenswear

43 CenTralCarolina TeChniCalCollege

1 CiTyofsuMTer

39 CounTryinn&suiTes

46 CovenanTPlaCe

31 gallery406inTeriors

6 greaTersuMTer ChaMBerofCoMMerCe

28 hangarTwelve

30 kaydonCorPoraTion

C4 MorrisCollege

47 niColenorris designsTudioinC.

28 oneagles’wingsinC.

36 Pigglywiggly

7 PrudenTial– JohnM.BraBhaM realesTaTe

5 safefederal CrediTunion

28 suMTerBeauTy CollegeinC.

4 suMTerCounTy

4 suMTerdeveloPMenTBoard

2 sykesenTerPrisesinC.

28 ThesouThernCross

C2 ThoMPson ConsTruCTiongrouP

30 universiTyof souThCarolinasuMTer

Page 53: Images Sumter, SC: 2012
Page 54: Images Sumter, SC: 2012

Through the Lens

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.

FromourphotoBlog:sumter

PoSTeD BY ToDD BeNNeTT

moreonlineSee more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at throughthelensjci.com.

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.

getthestoryBehindthephoto

48 sumTer

Page 55: Images Sumter, SC: 2012

imAgessumTerco.com 49

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