Northeastern Pennsylvania, commonly referred to as NEPA, is bustling with activity no matter the season. As coal mining declined decades ago, so did the population. Northeast PA developed a reputation as an area in which the future was bleak. In the heart of coal country, NEPA was littered with strip mines and abandoned coal breakers and railroad beds. A decline in population in the city of Scranton in particular left a dim outlook on residents who remained. But just as population and the area"s largest industry declined, a new light began to emerge at the end of the train tunnel. It was pride. Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and the Poconos have grown in many ways in the years since coal had faded away. New construction, new ideas, mine reclamation projects, tourism, and an influx of New York and New Jersey residents looking for a somewhat quieter way of life have caused our NEPA to surge with activity.
Did you ever go through this thought process? Do you know somebody who has? Do you have any inkling what is being there like? I wish from the core of my heart that the answers to all these queries be no. But fact remains irrefutable. There are people who suffer and I plan to discuss on their part what it takes to come home with a relatively reasonable and cheap flight booking tickets.