Challenge aims to improve fitness, combat social isolation in older adults

A “health-meets-social” approach to aging rolls out this month at the YMCA of Western North Carolina, in collaboration with AARP. The partnership has created a three-month program, dubbed Disrupt Aging Community Health Challenge, that combines a fitness challenge with social involvement for people 50 and older. The YMCA of WNC was one of 10 YMCAs across the country […]

Honoring Julian Price: An evening of music, film and tears

“I’m kind of still in disbelief and really overwhelmed, but in a wonderful way,” says filmmaker Erin Derham. Her documentary, Julian Price: Envisioning Community, Investing in People, premiered last night at the Orange Peel, to a sold out crowd. The film, which tells the story of Julian Price’s life in Asheville, was joined by live performances from the […]

Free and low cost health care as a basic human right

Caregivers and organizations in Western North Carolina — including community health centers, acupuncturists and herbalists — are helping people without insurance receive the care they need. Indeed, many providers say access to health care is a basic human right. People in every corner of the state should be covered and have access to care, says Benjamin Money, CEO and president […]

Mountain medley: Reflection­s on the 2015 Appalachia­n Studies Conference

In an ongoing effort to connect those dispersed communities, the Appalachian Studies Association held its 38th annual conference last month in Johnson City, Tenn. The one-of-a-kind event unites scholars and musicians, activists and academics, to celebrate the often misunderstood region’s distinctive heritage, culture and physical landscape.

Expect a big turnout at CleanUp Candler April 9 community meeting

Can a community initiative rise from the ground up, with no leaders and no set agenda? The answer is yes, and it’s apparent in newly affixed “Ole Town Candler” bumper stickers and a CleanUp Candler campaign that’s taking off via a Facebook page. And on Thursday, April 9, the initiative takes another step forward with a community meeting at Enka Middle School.