Monday, October 25, 1999
Appalachians celebrate with pride
Council makes strides in 25 years
BY SARA J. BENNETT
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Years ago, Marlin Wightman didn't like to acknowledge his Appalachian background.
“At one time, you see, we were labeled the ignorant hillbillies,” he said. “This was a title I wanted to shake, but I don't mind being called a hillbilly now. Now I have much pride in my heritage.”
Mr. Wightman, 66, attributes that to the Urban Appalachian Council, which celebrated its 25th anniversary Sunday at Mount Airy Forest, attracting more than 300 people. The or ganization promotes Appalachian culture and works to improve health and welfare services for people of Appalachian descent in Greater Cincinnati.
Involvement with the council encouraged Mr. Wightman to pursue the woodcarving he learned as a boy in Tennessee. The Colerain Township man spent several years speaking at area schools about mountain culture and arts.
“It really took my connection with UAC to enjoy the pride I feel I deserve,” he said, fingering intricately whittled dolls, puppets and animals on a display table Sunday. “They encouraged me to use the talents I had learned before.”
Although Appalachians have made strides over the years, poverty and limited schooling still pose challenges. The Urban Appalachian Council aims to empower the community with youth activities, adult education centers, employment readiness programs, cultural events, and neighborhood outreach efforts.
Colleen Newman of Price Hill credits the council's Family Connection program with helping her leave an abusive relationship, forge stronger ties with her two children, and move toward independence from welfare.
Ms. Newman, 30, is just starting to learn about her Appalachian heritage. She knows her father is from Kentucky, and she wants to find out more.
More important, she says, is the confidence that involvement with the council has given her. Today, Ms. Newman works part time for the organization.
“Everybody is so nice and so wonderful,” she said. “They helped me learn to listen to myself and listen to my children, and to solve problems in a positive way.”
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