Part 5/9:
The landscape of coal mining is evolving, and many residents are grappling with the industry's decline. Wes mentioned the bleak reality of his community, where once more than a hundred mines operated, now stand none. This decline has resulted in a pressing question: what comes next? Young men, like Wesley’s son who made nearly $200,000 as an electrical lineman, symbolize a shift towards seeking and creating opportunities outside of traditional coal mining, though the ties to the land and community remain potent.