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.

Following the death of Mahsa Amini, protests erupted across Iran, leading to the arrest of numerous journalists, particularly women. The Committee to Protect Journalists reported 95 arrests over the past year, with many journalists facing harsh treatment and restrictions even after release. Activists like Kiran Nazish and Negin Shiraghaei emphasize the ongoing oppression and the resilience of Iranian women, who continue to protest against mandatory hijab laws and other restrictions. Despite the risks, a cultural shift is noted, driven by the younger generation's determination to fight for their rights. The movement remains strong, with hopes for incremental change.

The roller-skating community in Western North Carolina, particularly in Asheville, is thriving with various groups like AVLsk8 and Blue Ridge Roller Derby fostering a sense of inclusivity and support. AVLsk8, co-founded by Pattiy Torno and Ashanti Ternoir, serves as a central hub for skaters, organizing regular events and creating a welcoming environment. Blue Ridge Roller Derby, established in 2006, continues to attract new members by offering a strong support network. Other groups and individuals, such as Carolyn Lewis and Chelsea Farley, contribute to the diverse and growing skating scene, emphasizing community building and personal growth through skating.

The article discusses the high rate of violence against female and nonbinary journalists in Turkey, highlighting that the country accounts for around 20% of global violations. The Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ) has documented a significant number of cases, particularly targeting Kurdish journalists and those covering women's issues. The Turkish government, under President Erdogan, has been criticized for its control over the media, leading to censorship and legal harassment of independent news organizations. The World Press Freedom Index ranks Turkey 165 out of 180 countries. The article includes the story of Safiye Alagas, a Kurdish journalist facing charges and potential imprisonment for her work. The European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) notes an increase in censorship, with numerous articles being blocked and news agencies facing legal threats. Despite the risks, journalists like Alagas continue to report on issues they believe are important for society.

Yalda Moaiery, an Iranian photojournalist, has been recognized with the International Women's Media Foundation's Wallis Annenberg Justice for Women Journalists Award for her courageous work covering women's rights and protests in Iran. Despite being arrested, beaten, and sentenced to six years in prison, Moaiery continues her work. The article highlights the plight of journalists in Iran, especially women, who face severe repression, including imprisonment and torture. The recognition aims to bring attention to the struggles of journalists and women under the Iranian regime.

Yalda Moaiery, an Iranian photojournalist, has been recognized with the International Women's Media Foundation's Wallis Annenberg Justice for Women Journalists award for her bravery in covering dangerous conflicts and protests, despite facing imprisonment and violence in Iran. The award highlights the plight of journalists in Iran, especially following the death of Mahsa Amini, which led to widespread protests and the imprisonment of numerous journalists.

The Asheville City Council is set to hold a public hearing on the proposed budget, which includes a 4.11% salary increase for permanent city employees. County Manager Avril Pinder has recommended a $441.9 million general fund budget with a 2.55 cent property tax increase. The Community Reparations Commission continues to make recommendations as its deadline approaches. Discussions are ongoing about the future of the Asheville Primary School property and a new contract with FCC Environmental Solutions for waste management. Various candidates for local government positions are sharing their visions and strategies ahead of the upcoming elections.

A documentary titled 'Bad Press' highlights the struggle of Mvskoke Media, a Native American media outlet, to regain its editorial independence after the Muscogee (Creek) Nation's National Council repealed a press freedom act. The film, co-directed by Rebecca Landsberry-Baker and Joe Peeler, follows journalist Angel Ellis as she fights against censorship and intimidation. The documentary underscores the broader challenges faced by Indigenous journalists in the U.S., where only a few tribal nations have laws protecting press freedom. The film aims to inspire more tribes to adopt free press protections.

Pamela Cauble's backyard in North Asheville exemplifies the benefits of participating in 'No Mow May,' an initiative aimed at supporting pollinators by reducing lawn mowing to allow wildflowers to flourish. The article highlights the importance of pollinators, citing alarming statistics about their decline and the critical role they play in plant and food diversity. Local experts and organizations like Bee City USA and Asheville GreenWorks advocate for reduced mowing and the integration of native plants to create pollinator-friendly habitats. The piece also addresses legal considerations and community responses to maintaining such gardens.

Investigative journalist Cerise Castle, while recovering from an injury sustained during a protest, delved into the existence of gangs within the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD), a subject that intrigued her since childhood. Her 15-part series on deputy gangs, which dates back to the 1950s and is linked to 19 killings of men of color, led to an investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission and earned her a Courage in Journalism Award from the International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF). Despite facing discrimination and death threats, Castle's work was recognized for its importance in addressing police accountability and racial discrimination. The IWMF also honored other journalists, including Xueqin 'Sophia' Huang and Victoria Roshchyna, for their brave reporting in challenging environments.

Bruce Shapiro, a victim of a violent crime and now the executive director of the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma, emphasizes the profound impact of trauma on journalists and the importance of recognizing and addressing it within newsrooms. Hannah Storm, founder of the Headlines Network, shares her personal experiences with trauma and PTSD, advocating for better support systems for journalists. The article highlights the changing attitudes towards trauma in journalism, the challenges faced by journalists in discussing mental health, and the need for integrated mental health support in newsrooms. Al Tompkins from Poynter underscores the dangers of emotional detachment in journalism and the importance of mental health conversations.

Journalists face significant mental health challenges due to the nature of their work, which often involves covering traumatic events. Trisha Thadani, a reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, shares her personal struggles and the importance of self-care and peer support. The culture in newsrooms is gradually changing, with organizations like Hearst hiring trauma-informed therapists to support their staff. Experts emphasize the need for consistent mental health resources and the value of social connections among journalists. The article highlights the resilience of journalists and the critical role of peer support in mitigating the impact of trauma.

Journalists face significant mental health challenges due to the stressful nature of their work, often covering traumatic events. Trisha Thadani, a reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, shares her experience of burnout during the pandemic, emphasizing the need for self-care and mental health support. The article highlights the tragic death of Dylan Lyons, a reporter for Spectrum News 13, underscoring the dangers journalists face. Hearst, the owner of the San Francisco Chronicle, has hired a trauma therapist to support its staff, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for mental health resources in newsrooms. The Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma and Poynter are also mentioned as organizations providing valuable support and training for journalists.

Journalist Trisha Thadani of the San Francisco Chronicle faced a personal and professional crisis during the pandemic, leading to a two-month recovery break. The article discusses the mental health challenges journalists face, particularly when covering traumatic events. Hearst, the parent company of the Chronicle, has hired a trauma-informed therapist to support staff, reflecting a changing culture in newsrooms that acknowledges the toll of reporting on tragedy. The Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma and Poynter provide resources and emphasize the importance of peer support and destigmatizing mental health care in journalism. The recent shooting of Spectrum News 13 reporter Dylan Lyons exemplifies the dangers and emotional impact of the profession.

Newly elected Buncombe County representatives Lindsey Prather, Eric Ager, and Caleb Rudow are adjusting to their roles in the N.C. General Assembly, facing logistical and procedural challenges. They navigate issues such as office setup, commuting, and legislative processes. Despite partisan differences, there is a general atmosphere of respect and collaboration. Concerns include a proposed rule change by Republicans to override gubernatorial vetoes without advance notice. The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce aims to foster better communication among legislators. The article highlights the unexpected breadth of topics legislators must address, emphasizing the importance of understanding constituents' needs.

Suno India, founded by Padma Priya, Rakesh Kamal, and Tarun Nirwan, leverages podcasts to highlight underreported stories in India. The platform covers diverse issues such as adoption, tuberculosis, climate change, and digital rights, broadcasting in multiple languages. Podcasts offer anonymity to sources and are harder to censor, making them a vital tool in repressive environments. Suno India has used innovative methods like WhatsApp voice notes to gather news during internet restrictions and lockdowns. The article underscores the importance of supporting independent journalism to combat misinformation and uphold democracy.

Newly elected Buncombe County representatives Lindsey Prather, Eric Ager, and Caleb Rudow are adjusting to their roles in the N.C. General Assembly, facing logistical challenges and learning the legislative process. They navigate issues such as office setup, commuting, and forming relationships. The article highlights the complexities of the legislative process, including bill introduction and committee reviews, and discusses a proposed rule change by Republicans that could impact veto overrides. Despite these challenges, there is a general sense of bipartisan cooperation among members.

Aida Ghajar, an IranWire reporter, played a crucial role in bringing the story of Mahsa Amini's death to light, which sparked ongoing protests in Iran. Despite the risks, Ghajar and her brother Kiarash, who was with Amini at the hospital, chose to speak out. Ghajar, who grew up in Iran and later went into exile due to societal pressures and threats from the Iranian regime, has continued her journalism work from Paris. She, along with other exiled journalists like Masih Alinejad and Yeganeh Rezaian, use social media and a network of sources to report on the situation in Iran. The article highlights the dangers faced by journalists in Iran, with 92 imprisoned since the protests began, and the efforts by organizations like the Committee to Protect Journalists to document abuses and support those in the field.

The article discusses the threat posed by Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) to investigative journalism. SLAPPs are often defamation lawsuits with high damage demands, aimed at silencing journalists who report on financial crime or corruption. The article highlights the case of Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was killed while facing over 40 lawsuits, and Clare Rewcastle Brown, who faced a costly legal battle after reporting on the 1MDB scandal. The anti-SLAPP conference, hosted by the Justice for Journalists Foundation and the Foreign Policy Centre, addressed these issues. Media analysts and journalists, including Paul Radu of the OCCRP and Charlie Holt of Greenpeace, discussed the chilling effect of SLAPPs on media freedom and democracy, calling for legislative reforms to protect journalists and freedom of expression.