Cynthia - "new age rich left wing trust funders"? Come on! Although I moved to Paonia only recently I’ve visited many times over the years – extending, by the way, to the years before you lived here. I love it here! (In that respect I guess I’m “rich” as you say, but in no other sense.) I buy groceries at Don’s, meds at Hays Drug Store, do my best to keep up on town news and affairs, take care of my place, address Christmas cards for KVNF, clean up after my dog and participate in the community as much as I can. I worked until I was 70 so I could afford to retire here on social security. I realize the Valley was built around coal mining. However, economics have changed. Since the Valley is blessed with natural beauty, agricultural resources, arts & cultural venues and sustainable technology, Paonia’s vitality has bloomed (check the just-released 2018 audit report). The majority of former coal towns both here and in Appalachia are cold, gray zombie-towns and a burden on their areas. While I’m very aware many long-term residents agree with your point of view I have confidence that some embrace positive change and the new vitality and bright future it brings.
Louis | Ruskin, FL | Report Abuse