A Look at Lumberton

During our inaugural Book 'Em North Carolina event, we had authors come from as far away as Arizona and attendees traveled from as far away as New Jersey and Florida. More than 2,000 people attended the panel discussions and talks and of those who purchased books, more than half came from outside the county.

For many, it was their first exposure to Lumberton, North Carolina. But they quickly learned what I knew all along: this is the friendliest place on earth.

When I moved here more than 7 years ago, the community welcomed me with open arms. I found scores of people who eagerly volunteered their time and their energy to a variety of causes to make this town an ideal place to live - from those who created annual events such as the Rumba on the Lumber and Chevy to the Levee... To those who participate in the Friends of the Library, Robeson County Arts Council, United Way, Communities In Schools... To those who have the special vision to create the Southeastern Regional Waterworks Art Gallery, River Roots, Purple Door and Flying Angel Entertainment (both live theatre) to sports, exploring the Lumber River that snakes through town, and so much more.

Fall is a time for barrel racing at Cowboy Up at the Southeastern Agricultural Events Center; for kayaking along the Lumber River; for Leaping Lizards Craft and Home Show; for the Haunted Hay Ride, Family Fun Day at Biggs Park Mall, and so much more.

Lumberton is a town of contrasts. It has one of the most picturesque and relaxing historic areas, which can instantly take you back to the time of Mayberry and Andy Griffith...

To planning into the future with the NorthEast Park and the new Art Gallery and attracting businesses to this area...

And come next February, scores of authors and attendees will converge again on Lumberton and discover it's the greatest place on earth.

Written by p.m.terrell, the co-founder of The Book 'Em Foundation and co-chair of Book 'Em North Carolina. Her 14th book, Secrets of a Dangerous Woman, launches today at the Carolina Civic Center Historic Theatre in downtown Lumberton. It is the third book in Black Swamp Mysteries, an award-winning series that takes place in Lumberton, NC. For more information, visit her website at www.pmterrell.com.