In a city where people can trace their roots over 100 years, Paula Crowell is new to the area.
Mrs. Crowell and her husband moved into the Hickory Hills subdivision of Thomson about a year ago. After the tornado went over their house in March, neighbors were there to help that night and the days afterward to help repair the damage. She received a crash course in where things are, who to go to and who to see in Thomson and McDuffie County to get things done.
Since the tornado, she has continued to learn more and more about what she calls "the wonderful community of Thomson."
Mrs. Crowell wants to turn the things she and others have learned into an organization to help others who are new to Thomson and McDuffie County.
"There are other families moving into the area who need to know where to go to get their license plates and pay their taxes," she said. "Even more importantly, they need information about the schools, restaurants and where to get their hair cut."
With the help of the Friends of the Library, Mrs. Crowell is organizing a Newcomers Club. The purpose of the group is to share ideas on local resources and provide a social support group for those who are new to the area. She is looking for people who have moved into the area in the past three years.
The first meeting will be a coffee held on Saturday, Oct. 13, from 10 a.m. until noon at the Thomson Library, 338 Main Street. People will be able to share stories about moving into the area and get information about resources that are available.
