Terry Woodruff, Steve Sweitzer and Blue Note owner Richard King recently formed a production company, Thumper Entertainment, to hold major events in Columbia, including another free blues festival some time later this year if it can raise sufficient funds.

This is a great idea. I applaud Terry, Steve and Richard for taking the risk to develop this festival into an annual traditional that will benefit the area for years to come. Last year’s festival was a phenomal success, even more successful than the planners and sponsors had hoped.

With these three heavy-hitters behind future efforts for this festival along with other major events, Columbia is sure to earn its place on the entertainment map.

• as reported in the Columbia Business Times