North Carolina (a.k.a. the "Tar Heel" State)

and its heartland... the "Piedmont":

Encompassing the central part of the state, the Heartland is made up of gently rolling foothills.  Although the area enjoys four distinct seasons, temperatures are mild year round -- the average wintertime temperature is about 42 degrees, and in summer, it's 77 degrees. The area also enjoys sunshine for about 210 days a year. Located here are shopping meccas, top golf courses, historic sites and entertainment offerings.