Edd's Gatherin' Place

Susan Wild, Communication Director for the City of Sumter, and I had a very pleasant conversation today on the history of Sumter’s Fantasy of Lights display. She was able to start at the very beginning and continue through the years as the total concept grew and expanded. We also talked economics, tourism, and taxes and how all three come together in a very coherent package to make the Fantasy of Lights one of Sumter’s largest and free attractions for Sumter and our surrounding counties and to outside tourists.

Ms. Wild will send me within the next few weeks a write up to our conversation, which I will immediately pass on to you. My desire is to understand the history behind the Fantasy of Lights and its evolution over the years. In addition, I want to pass along how certain taxes and revenues help to promote Sumter as a city for employment and residential and cultural living.