A question for those who live in the Shenandoah Valley region (Richmond: crimes, living in)

[MAWP87]

Just curious -

I wanted to know how old you are, and how you feel about living in the Shenandoah Valley area. Do you feel like there are a lot of people your age in the area? Do you feel a sense of community in your town? Feel free to add anything that you particularly love or hate about it.

[Nebat]

Originally Posted by MAWP87

Just curious -

I wanted to know how old you are, and how you feel about living in the Shenandoah Valley area. Do you feel like there are a lot of people your age in the area? Do you feel a sense of community in your town? Feel free to add anything that you particularly love or hate about it.

I'm 29 and live in Staunton. I"m fine with living here. It's mostly a quiet place. I like the historic downtown area and Gypsy Hill park. What i don't like is there is a lot of redneck white trash types. I have no problem with poor people as i don't have any money either, but i have a problem with people glorifying a lifestyle, like being dirty, smelly, unhealthy, and unkempt, because they feel entitled to do so. By no means is this a large part of the population, just a few that really stick out and you remember when you see them. There is a lack of good work for young people, i myself travel to Charlottesville for work. There isn't a lot to do, so some young people get bored and commit property crimes. Serious crimes are rare, but do happen occasionally. As far as Staunton, it's mainly older people i feel. There are a lot of people my age, but most want to move. I think there is a sense of community here. I know all of my neighbors and the downtown merchants all look out for each other.

Even though i probably paint a negative picture of the area, for me it's fine. I'm happy here. But it doesn't take much to please me. There isn't much shopping, you either have to go to Charlottesville or Harrisonburg, or for serious shopping Richmond or DC. Again this doesn't bother me since i don't mind getting away for a day either. I do absolutely love the scenery of the valley though and that keeps my mind off some of the things i don't like. But bottom line is you are the only person who will know what will make you happy and i wish you luck in finding the perfect place!