No. 17: Paddlebrook

Seems like I'm always answering questions about Paddlebrook, so today, I thought I'd tell you a little about our town. (No, I'm not paid by the Chamber of Commerce for this little plug.)

Paddlebrook sits west of Denver in the Rockies. It's basically an old silver mining town that never really died, but it never really caught on either. It just... lingered. Paddlebrook is one of those bumps in the road you drive through, then go, Was that a town back there? Yes, we're small. So small, that Walmart hasn't found us yet. Get the picture?

I wish I could tell you some interesting story about our town founder, or show you a monument that stands in tribute of some historic act that took place here, but I can't. We don't have beautiful gardens, or unique architecture, either. Truth is, there is nothing spectacular about Paddlebrook but its people. They are truly the gems of the Rockies.

Paddlebrook would still be going on in quiet annonymity, if it weren't for the resort. Deer Run Resort, the latest "it" retreat for the fabulously wealthy, is being built a few miles from here, so Paddlebrook is suddenly getting attention. Lots of attention.

People are beginning to move here. They want to work at the resort, or one of the other new businesses that have started to spring up. Growth is good; we're thrilled with it, but to tell you the truth, we're also a little overwhelmed. There has always been a delicate balance in this town - just enough homes to live in, jobs to work at, and schools to go to - just enough for "the locals." But now new people are moving in - people that need housing, need to find work, need to send their kids to school - you see the dilema. Paddlebrook is experiencing a boom.

This is our greatest challenge: How do we grow and remain a community? How do we accomodate all these newcomers and make them feel welcome, without wearing ourselves out? I don't know the answer yet. Hey, if you have experience in a boom town, or have some advice, lmk. I can use all the help I can get.

Some of the old-timers around here don't want any part of the new Paddlebrook. They've pulled up stakes and moved to more isolated areas of the mountain. They come to town once a month or so for supplies, then retreat into the wilderness like hermits.

Not Charlie and me. We're staying put. I am part of Paddlebrook and I will continue to be, even with the growing pains. I was telling Sammy just this morning that I'm always up for an adventure; looks like I won't have to leave home to experience this one!

Until next time -

Comments

[Jane]

It was so good to visit Paddlebrook again. I have not been able to swing by in a while. It is good to know that Sheila and Charlie will not abandon their hometown. Small towns are the backbone of this nation!!

[Chad]

The booming residue of yesterday's adventures. I think I could go for that. Naw, I'm not complaining about Denver, but hey, after 2 years in the crowded city of Lima (Peru), I could use a little bit of small-town respite. Thanks for the blogging. Keep it up!