Salida...Buena Vista?

What is the situation in the Salida or Buena Vista area for medical marijuana...are there dispensaries and doctors there, or do most people have to go into the Springs for meds ?
Is the weather really much milder there...much less snow??
Empolyment, crime, nice people?? I hear it is called the banana belt because of such nice weather.
How far a ride is it to Colorado Springs? I imagine there would be some bad snowy roads between that area and the Springs.
It seems more small town which I like....any info is appreciated...thanks.