September–December 1998 Issue

Once Distressed, Jackson County Moves On
by Fred D. Baldwin

Thanks to strong leadership and long-term investments in physical infrastructure, institutional networks, and people, a once-distressed county in North Carolina is moving in the right direction.

The Town That Helped Itself—to Water
by Fred D. Baldwin

The residents of Smith Ridge, Virginia, used "sweat equity" to help finance a new water system through the state's Self-Help Virginia initiative.

A Conversation on Distressed Counties

Three experts on the Appalachian Region discuss the problems and potentials of the Region's poorest counties.

Appalachian Scene: The Spirit of Oneida
by Carl Hoffman

Thanks to an extraordinary community effort, the Oneida Special School District is not just alive, but arguably one of the best school systems anywhere. It has three brand-new, state-of-the-art buildings, commitments of funding for years to come, and excited, dynamic teachers. And most important of all, enrollment is growing, students' test scores are rising, and more and more students are continuing their education after graduation.

Hammering Home Skills
by Carl Hoffman

Housing rehabilitation and training in construction skills training combine in southwest Virginia's If I Had a Hammer project.

Inside Information: September–December 1998 Issue

ARC Reauthorization Approved by Congress; Study Examines Impact of Appalachian Highway System; ARC Representatives Hold Commission Meeting in Corning, New York; DDAA Holds Workshops on Collaboration with Foundations. Inside information, September–December 1998.

Kids on Campus
by Carl Hoffman

An award-winning summer program in Ohio's Athens County sends elementary school kids to a college campus for six weeks of tutoring, self-esteem building, nutritious meals, and fun.

Reading for Life
by Fred D. Baldwin

Barrow County, Georgia's strong commitment to literacy shows in the achievements of its adult learning center.