The Appalachian Regional Commission, established by the 1965 Appalachian Regional Development Act, has as its overall goal the economic and social development of the region. The program brings together the more than 18 million Appalachian citizens and local, State, and Federal governments in a cooperative effort to build a better life. In 1973, there were some temporary setbacks from natural disasters but overall advances for the Appalachian development program. This annual report focuses on what has been accomplished by the Commission during 1973, also discussing its organization and development strategy. Innovations and the current status of finances, employment, population, income, transportation, education, environment, health, child development, and housing are specific areas of concern. The appendices list the Appalachian population, approved projects, expenditures by State, and local development districts. (NQ)