Detailing the present socioeconomic status of Appalachia, this article presents relevant data on Appalachian job opportunities, economic growth, human services, natural resources, governmental structure, population growth, income, health care, education levels, housing, and community services. (JC)

A native Appalachian describes how his home in southwestern Virginia (Wythe County) seemed to him as a boy and how he feels it has changed today after an absence of 20 years. (Author/NEC)

A two-year culinary arts program at Muskingum College (Zanesville, Ohio) prepares students for jobs in an emerging service-based economy. Students receive intensive classroom instruction and hands-on learning in a high-tech kitchen. Twenty-five full-time and 12 part-time students are completing their first year in the program. (LP)

Since 1981, Mike Duncan, who was chairman and chief executive officer of two banks in eastern Kentucky, has offered internships to high school and college students. Duncan has mentored students on educational goals and has encouraged them to take advantage of job opportunities in their local communities. To date, 73 students have interned at…

The second in a series of interviews with Appalachian citizens, this article presents a Pennsylvania vocational-technical school counselor's responses re: students, their abilities, and their highly positive attitudes; his program and its place in the community and career education; and the economic status of Monaca, Pennsylvania. (SB)

Describes an innovative training program in minicomputer technology at Dalton Junior College (Georgia) funded by the state department of education, private industry and the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). Points out reasons for the program's success: shortage of skilled people and the prospect of quick entry into the workworld. (LC)

The article describes the objectives, curriculum, training area, equipment used and skills taught in the power linemen's instructional course in Muskingum Area Joint Vocational School (Zanesville, Ohio). The course has great appeal for those wishing to work outdoors and has a perfect job placement record. (SB)