The Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project is preparing for its annual Farm Tour in September. Local green news includes a new solar lending program from Sugar Hollow Solar, the West Asheville Garden Stroll, and the N.C. Arboretum's Monarch Butterfly Day. The article also highlights various environmental and community initiatives, such as Warren Wilson College's new master's degree in applied climate studies, Tangled Bank Conservation's prize for combating turtle trafficking, and Hood Huggers International's new book on sustainable cultures. Additionally, the Southern Environmental Law Center and other conservation groups are preparing to sue the U.S. Forest Service over the Nantahala-Pisgah Forest Plan.

The article explores the significant advancements in computer technology from the first generation of vacuum tube computers to the current era of microprocessors. It highlights the evolution through various generations, including the transition to transistors, the development of integrated circuits, and the miniaturization of components. Each generation brought about increased efficiency, reliability, and accessibility, ultimately leading to the modern computing era where computers are essential tools in various industries and personal use.

Three candidates for the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners discussed their visions for the county's future at a business meeting. Various candidates for Asheville City Council and Buncombe County Board of Commissioners shared their campaign strategies and community concerns, emphasizing issues like affordable housing, homelessness, and small business support. Early voting for the second primary begins April 25, with Republicans and unaffiliated voters deciding on candidates for state races. The article highlights the local political landscape, including the challenges faced by candidates and the importance of community engagement.

Kim Martin, lead interpreter for Buncombe County Schools, discusses the importance of language role models for deaf children. Mission Hospital faces staffing issues and has been cited for 'immediate jeopardy' by the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Various health initiatives are highlighted, including adaptive sports, crisis lines for substance use, and the expansion of mobile health units. Asheville Parks & Recreation, Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts, and Pisgah Legal share insights on health and wellness. The Buncombe County Veterans Treatment Court launches a podcast, and the benefits of school-based health centers are discussed.

Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts is celebrating its 20-year anniversary. Co-founder Mary Cissy Majebé emphasizes that Chinese medicine is a lifelong learning process. The college's milestone highlights its commitment to education and the practice of Chinese medicine.

Local nonprofits in Asheville are adapting to a new normal of fewer volunteers working more hours to meet growing community needs post-COVID-19. Organizations like Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, Four Seasons, MANNA FoodBank, Conserving Carolina, and Bounty & Soul have experienced significant changes in volunteer numbers and hours. While some have seen a rebound, others continue to face challenges. Despite these hurdles, the community's commitment and innovative volunteer recruitment and retention strategies have enabled these nonprofits to continue their essential work.

Victoria Roshchyna, an award-winning Ukrainian journalist known for her reporting on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, has been missing for nearly three months. She has previously been detained and threatened by Russian forces. Despite the risks, she continued to report from the front lines. The International Women's Media Foundation awarded her a Courage Award in 2022. Colleagues and organizations are advocating for her release, but her current status remains unknown. The situation reflects the broader dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones, particularly under Russian occupation.

The end of federal support for free school meals has left many students and families in Western North Carolina struggling with food insecurity. Rising costs of living and stringent eligibility criteria for meal assistance exacerbate the issue. Organizations like MANNA FoodBank and local school systems are working to provide support, but the need remains high. Advocates call for renewed federal assistance to ensure all students have access to proper nutrition, which is critical for their educational success.

Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts, celebrating its 20th anniversary, has grown from a single classroom to offering three accredited programs in Chinese medicine and herbology. The college emphasizes classical Chinese medicine, self-cultivation, and hands-on clinical experience. Co-founder Mary Cissy Majebé, inspired by master teacher Jeffrey Yuen, established the college with a focus on preserving ancient medical traditions. The college's clinic offers affordable treatments and engages with the local community through various outreach programs. Graduates like Heather Gagliardi and Kelsey Irvin plan to use their training to serve underserved communities.

Crislyn V’Soske Baughman, a hospice nurse and self-taught jewelry maker in North Asheville, meticulously crafts earrings, necklaces, hair clips, and mobiles by hand. Balancing her demanding nursing job with her passion for jewelry-making, Baughman finds peace and flow in her creative process. Influenced by her family's legacy in custom-made rug design, she creates unique pieces without formal training or external inspiration. Her work is available at local shops, and she cherishes seeing people wear her creations.