August/September 2013 Newsbites
Protect Kentucky Streams from Increased Selenium Pollution
Kentucky regulators are attempting to weaken a state law in a way that would let mountaintop removal coal mining companies discharge more toxic selenium pollution into Kentucky’s waters. Send EPA Administrator McCarthy a message today asking her to protect Appalachian streams from toxic selenium pollution; visit appvoices.org/take-action
Introducing… Tennessee Tuesdays!
Are you a resident of the great Volunteer state, or do you live away but frequently visit in your daydreams? Well now we have a great way for you to keep up with the news from that fair state. Each Tuesday, our Tennessee Director, J.W. Randolph, updates readers on the fight to end mountaintop removal coal mining, as well as efforts to improve energy-savings policies in the state. He also delves deep to report how Tennessee’s federal legislators vote on environmental issues, and concludes each post with a link to a phenomenal Appalachian song.
Readers can sign up to receive an email each week with the latest article, or read the posts on the website’s Front Porch Blog. To learn more or sign up for Tennessee Tuesdays, visit: appvoices.org/tenn-tuesdays
AV Earns 4 Stars
Appalachian Voices was recently awarded the highest rating from Charity Navigator, an online organization that ranks non-profit groups according to best management practices. The 4-star rating was awarded to Appalachian Voices for its sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency — which means that when you support our work, you can be sure your gift will help protect Appalachia’s natural heritage and build a brighter future.
Charity Navigator is an independent, 501(c)3 organization that evaluates more than 5,400 charities in the United States to help potential donors avoid charity fraud and highlight the work of efficient, ethical and open organizations in the non-profit sector. Read more at appvoices.org/financial-information.
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The Rocky Road — and Bridge — to Recovery
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After 20 Years, Letcher County Prison Proposal Is Still Alive, Though Obstacles Remain
A $605 million proposal for a federal prison on a former strip mine site in Letcher County, Kentucky, championed by U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers, refuses to die, despite local opposition, a lack of support from the executive branch and numerous other obstacles.
The Washout and Rebuild
For nearly two years, residents of Unicoi County, Tennessee, have had to make do without a hospital after Hurricane Helene destroyed the rural hospital. Ballad Health, which owns the hospital, broke ground on a new location — in another floodplain — in August 2026.
The Shenandoah Salamander
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‘Foraging Is a Way of Connecting’
Foraging has experienced a modern resurgence, partly because of social media, online groups, the pandemic and people wanting to connect with nature. It also builds community, whether in person or online.
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