"There's no reason to leave," is more than just a motto. It's a fact of life.
Demographics
The small population is strikingly diverse in ethnicity. Likewise, the people come from all over the Midwest: Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa.
Government
The Guiding Circle meets to discuss the needs of the village on every full and new moon. Decisions that affect the village must be voted upon by the entire village. Villagers who are enrolled in school or else who have graduated from school, may speak on the matter in a public forum before voting takes place. The members of the Circle are prohibited from voting. Everyone else who is 13 years or older must vote on the issue.
Infrastructure
The center of the village is dominated by a small, ancient-looking, cross-shaped cathedral, a remnant of when the area was invaded by Jesuit priests.
Village architecture is dominated by solid, beautifully constructed log buildings with brick chimneys. The insides of homes are surprisingly modern.
I'm told that every once in a while, a crew comes through and remodels the insides of the homes. No one knows who sends them, but the quality of their work cannot be questioned.
Geography
Nestled in a valley among rolling, sedimentary hills, the village is bordered by agricultural fields and encircled by dense forest.
Climate
Wherever Avalon really is, it's climate is temperate. Spring, summer, autumn, and winter are all distinct. It is not immune to conditions such as blizzards, thunderstorms, drought, and tornados.
Natural Resources
Avalon has excellent soil for agriculture, and hardy grasses for livestock. Poplar, ash, maple, oak, and pine are all common. Anything else can either be found at the store, or ordered through the store.
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