The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a regional economic development agency representing a unique partnership of federal, state, and local governments. Established by an act of Congress in 1965, the Commission is composed of the governors of the 13 Appalachian states and a federal co-chairperson. Grassroots participation is provided by multi-county local development districts (LDDs) with boards made up of local business people and elected officials. The broad aim of ARC programs is to support development of Appalachia's human and community infrastructure in order to provide a climate for business growth and job creation. This commemorative edition of "Appalachia" describes the people and the land of Appalachia; profiles people and organizations that have contributed to regional development; discusses programs and the progress that has been made in the areas of education, business development, leadership, tourism, transportation, culture, health, and community improvement; and tells the history of the ARC. A final section examines ARC accomplishments, including construction of a regional interstate highway system, construction of or provision of equipment to over 700 vocational and technical education facilities, provision of job training and basic skills training for adults, completion of a network of primary health care clinics and hospitals, aid to water and sewer projects, rehabilitation or construction of over 14,000 housing units, support of revolving loan funds for small businesses, construction of comprehensive child care centers for low-income families, provision of training and assistance to local governments, and support of youth leadership training projects. Contains many photographs and a list of local LDDs. (SV)