Wildmans Release Debut Album Longtime Friend

The Wildmans, siblings Aila and Elisha from Appalachia, recently released their debut album "Longtime Friend," blending their Appalachian roots with influences from artists like Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris. They celebrated the album release with a live concert at The Floyd Country Store, featuring fellow Appalachian Americana artist Dori Freeman, who is known for modernizing traditional mountain music. Meanwhile, Lindsay Cray, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Clinical Adventure Therapist, emphasizes the deep connection between mental health and nature, particularly through her work with Rochester's Lower Falls Gorge, advocating for reconnection with land, self, and community rooted in Indigenous wisdom. In sports, Kevin Newman, a former University of Arizona baseball standout now playing for the Los Angeles Angels, is having a challenging season, but his career highlights include a strong 2019 season with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Angels currently trail in the AL West and wild card standings as the MLB All-Star break approaches. These diverse stories reflect themes of connection—whether through music, healing, or sport—and the ongoing challenges and achievements within those arenas.