#26
September 1, 2026#28
September 1, 2026
Searchable issue transcript
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foothills foothills Digest Digest Hell or High Water Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina Display until 3/1/25 $10.95 Impact Rescue Relief Recovery Rebuilding
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Hurricane Helene is shown from above as it moves from the Gulf of Mexico into North Carolina.
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4 foothills Digest 3838 Cleary Rd Laurel Springs, NC 28644 Issue #27 2024 Phone: 828.475.1323 E-mail: editor@foothillsdigest.com Website: foothillsdigest.com Stock by Adobe Stock Created using Adobe Suite Edited with the assistance of Open AI PRINTED IN USA PARTNER COMPANY: ECKARD PHOTOGRAPHIC C A R M E N E C K A R D Editor in Chief Author, unless otherwise noted J O N E C K A R D Principal Photographer J O E Y O S B O R N E Partner S P E C I A L T H A N KS : Joey Mosteller, Heather Sener, Allison Willard, Carol Turner, Betsy Upchurch, Alexandra Walker "Put it before them briefly so they will read it, clearly so they will appreciate it, picturesquely so they will remember it and, above all, accurately so they will be guided by its light." -Joseph Pulitzer
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5 Dear Readers, How many times have we each said, "Lord willing and the creek don't rise?" Probably not as many times as we've said, "Bless your heart," but it's close. And after Hurricane Helene, that phrase carries more weight than ever. We didn't realize just how destructive the creek could be when it rises. The devastation from Hurricane Helene has been unimaginable. With nearly 2,000 landslides and the tragic loss of over 100 North Carolinians—the death toll now at 101, with some still missing—our community is reeling. Recovery will take years, but the resilience of mountain people deserves many books written about it. We hope to rebuild not only what we've lost but also in a way that ensures such devastation is never repeated. The Great Flood of 1916 affected many of the same areas, inflicting similar damage, though not as severe as what we see today. The mountains and rivers were here long before us, and they will remain long after we’re gone. We must respect them. We must be cautious and thoughtful as we rebuild in these flood-prone areas, knowing that future floods are inevitable. Both the 1916 flood and this flood were the result of hurricanes arriving from the Gulf of Mexico, following a week of rain from other systems. Since 1970, the Gulf of Mexico has been warming at twice the rate of the rest of the oceans, and that warmth gave Helene the energy to grow so powerful. Hurricanes are not new, but with the warming waters, we will likely see more frequent, larger, and stronger storms. The more hurricanes we face, the more we risk conditions that lead to catastrophic flooding. We must assume that floods like this one will happen again and plan accordingly. Even though national attention has already moved on, our region's rebuilding process is just beginning, and we must continue to support it. The outpouring of support has been truly impressive—so much money raised, so many items donated, and countless creative ways people have found to help. It’s a testament to the strength of our community and the deep love people have for these mountains. Mountain resilience has always been a defining characteristic of this region. Together, we’ll rebuild, adapt, and prepare for the challenges ahead. And as we do, we’ll continue to lean on that timeless phrase, "Lord willing and the creek don’t rise." Thank you for standing with us.
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5 Letter from the Editor 8 Hell or High Water: Hurricane Helene 10 Omer Fichman's Lens 24 Marshall Rising 34 When the Rivers Rise 38 Chasing Helene with Aaron Rigsby 48 A Holler Remembers 50 The Science Behind Helene 52 Rising Together 58 Heroes Above the Storm 66 The Pig Boss of Warren Wilson College 70 Mules to the Rescue 75 The Cajun Navy 76 Feeding the Spirit 82 Saluting the Linemen 86 FEMA: Supporting Survivors 88 Shining a Spotlight on Helpers 90 The Blue Ridge Parkway 92 Remembering Craigtown 94 Musical Heroes 98 Cardinals at the Window 100 River Arts District 105 Rising Water, Rising Morganton 106 The Quartz Mines of WNC 108 Christmas Trees 110 First Hand Accounts 120 Toe to Toe with Nature 122 A Flood, A Painting, and Fate 124 Get Your Kit Together 125 Cheap Flashlights and Snacks 126 The Story of Miss Kathleen Lipe 130 Poetry Table of Table of Contents Contents Scan for information about our Advertisers. Foothills Digest is a proud sponsor of MerleFest, the Catawba Valley Pottery Festival, and the Smoky Mountain Blue Grass Festival. Photo by Tim Reaves Photo Courtesy of NC State Parks
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8 Hell or High Water: Hell or High Water: Hurricane Helene in WNC Hurricane Helene in WNC
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9 Hurricane Helene roared into Western North Carolina in late September 2024, unleashing an unforgiving barrage of wind and rain that left the region reeling. For nearly two days, Helene hovered over the Appalachian foothills, releasing torrents of rainfall that swelled rivers far beyond their banks. The French Broad, Swannanoa, and Toe Rivers burst forth, flooding homes, shops, and roads, echoing the destructive forces of the Great Flood of 1916—but this time with even greater ferocity. Communities across Western North Carolina were brought to their knees by the storm’s unrelenting power. In Marshall, the French Broad River rose to heights unseen in over a century, swallowing the town in a tide of mud and debris. Chimney Rock faced devastation too, with landslides burying roads and destroying vital infrastructure. The beloved Flowering Bridge in Lake Lure was swept away, a symbol of the deep loss felt by all who cherished it. In Asheville, neighborhoods along the Swannanoa River found themselves submerged, with countless families left displaced. The Toe River surged through Yancey and Mitchell Counties, tearing apart homes and sweeping away memories that had stood for generations. Roads and bridges—lifelines for these mountain towns—were wiped out, isolating entire communities and leaving them cut off from the outside world. The devastation was profound. Families clung to each other as their homes were washed away, their dreams shattered in an instant. In Marshall, parents waded through waist-deep water, carrying their children to safety as the river swallowed everything they owned. In the darkness, the cries of those stranded echoed through the valleys, their fear and desperation a haunting reminder of nature's overwhelming power. Chimney Rock's streets were buried beneath a thick layer of mud, and the once-beautiful Flowering Bridge lay in ruins, its loss a heartbreaking symbol of what the storm had taken from them. In the Toe River Valley, entire neighborhoods were swept away, leaving only the bare earth where lives had once flourished. Tragically, we also lost beloved family members, lifelong residents of Appalachia who had weathered countless storms but were taken from us by Helene's fury. Their absence leaves an unfillable void in the fabric of these close-knit communities. Yet, amidst the heartbreak, a spirit emerged that was stronger than the storm. The people of Western North Carolina—bound by tradition, community, and an unwavering resilience— rose to face the challenges left in Helene’s wake. Volunteers from neighboring towns and far-flung places arrived with food, supplies, and helping hands. Local businesses turned their spaces into shelters, neighbors rescued each other from rising waters, and strangers opened their doors to those left with nowhere to go. Amid the mud and wreckage, there were countless acts of kindness—moments that reminded everyone that even the fiercest storm could not wash away the spirit of these mountains. The damage from Hurricane Helene is undeniable. Homes are gone, roads are impassable, and cherished landmarks are lost. But what remains is perhaps more profound: a community that has rallied together, bound by their love for this land and each other. The flooding may have drawn comparisons to 1916, but the response—the solidarity, the hope, the determination to rebuild—is uniquely ours in 2024. Together, the people of Western North Carolina are not just clearing debris; they are laying the foundation for a future built on resilience and community. To our readers who faced this storm firsthand, we see you. We admire your strength, and we stand with you in the days and months to come. Together, we will rebuild—not just what was lost, but something even stronger, with deeper roots and greater care for the mountains that sustain us all.
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Omer Fichman’s journey into photography began in a deeply personal way. Growing up in Israel, Omer connected with his father over their shared love of exploration. For Omer, it was more than a father-son bonding experience—it was an initiation into the beauty of storytelling through a lens. His father, who always carried a camera during their trips, taught Omer to see the world with curiosity and compassion. The camera wasn’t just a tool for capturing images; it was a way of connecting with people, places, and moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. Their travels took them to remote areas, where they met fascinating people and witnessed unique landscapes, and Omer's father made a habit of documenting it all. As Omer recalls, his father had a particular knack for seeing beauty in what others might consider broken—an abandoned building, a storm-worn tree, or a forgotten path. This vision shaped Omer's understanding of photography as an art form that finds value in the overlooked and the vulnerable. A Lens on Beauty , Tragedy , and Connection: Omer Fichman Omer Fichman
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After his father's passing last year, Omer's commitment to photography took on even deeper significance. "My father always saw the beauty in what others might consider broken," Omer reflects. "Documenting journalistically through photography— capturing people’s stories, giving voices to people and places that might otherwise be overlooked—is important to me, as it was to him." For Omer, each photograph is a tribute to his father's lessons: be kind, be curious, and connect with others. Foothills Digest is delighted to share Omer's images he took in several mountain communities after Hurricane Helene devastated the region. We appreciate his unique vision. Capturing Humanity on a Global Sca Le Omer's passion for photography grew during his own solo travels, which took him across continents—through Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. These journeys became a crucible for his photographic style, as he sought to document the humanity that unites people across cultures. He remembers an especially profound moment in Namibia, at the age of fifteen, when he was invited to witness a coming-of-age ceremony for young men in a village.
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"This experience was so vastly different from my own, and so powerful," Omer says. "It taught me how different people are culturally in their traditions, language, and beliefs—but it also showed me how much we are the same. We all want peace, we all want connection, love, and community." It is this shared humanity that Omer strives to capture through his lens, reminding viewers that despite our differences, we all belong to the same human family.
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His travels taught him that every person and place has a story worth sharing, and that photography is an essential means of bearing witness. Whether it's a vibrant festival in Latin America, a quiet village in Africa, or the crowded streets of Europe, Omer's photographs aim to celebrate both the unique and the universal—the details that make each community distinct, and the emotions that bring us together.
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18 Witnessing Pain and Finding Empathy Beyond beauty, Omer has always been drawn to the stories that need to be told—the ones that carry pain, struggle, and resilience. Living in Israel during the recent war, he experienced firsthand the suffering that tore through his country. The horrors of October 7th left an indelible mark on him, and he felt a strong pull to document these moments. "Some things in life need to be documented, especially those with pain," Omer explains. "It is my belief that when they are shared with the world, the world can bear witness and hopefully develop a deepening sense of awareness, empathy, and compassion for voices that deserve to be heard." Photography, for Omer, is an act of witness—a way of ensuring that stories of suffering are not forgotten, but instead become a call to compassion and change.
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19 His photographs from Israel during this turbulent time are raw and honest, capturing the pain and resilience of people caught in the midst of conflict. They are a testament to his belief that even in tragedy, there is a story to be told—one that can foster understanding and unity. The Floods of Appalachia Omer now lives in Asheville, North Carolina, with his fiancé Courtney, two dogs, and a cat. When Hurricane Helene struck, bringing devastating floods to Western North Carolina, Omer once again felt the call to document. This time, it was the people of Appalachia whose stories he wanted to tell—people who, like him, had experienced both beauty and loss, and whose resilience shone through in times of tragedy. "To bear witness to tragedy is an honor, and to listen to people’s stories is a privilege," Omer says. With his camera, he set out to capture the aftermath of the storm—the flooded streets, the homes washed away, and the communities coming together to help one another. For Omer, this was personal. He had come to love the Appalachian region and its people, and he wanted to play whatever small part he could in bringing attention and awareness to what was happening.
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"I understand that Appalachia, throughout history, has often been overlooked or misjudged," Omer explains. "I have come to love this beautiful place and its people. The way the community in Western North Carolina has mobilized to help one another—whether neighbor to neighbor or via mutual aid—has been incredible, and the kindness I have seen has changed me for the better." The photographs Omer took in the wake of the floods are both haunting and hopeful. They capture not only the destruction left behind by the storm, but also the resilience of the people who call this place home. His images show neighbors helping neighbors, strangers offering supplies, and communities coming together to rebuild. They tell a story of a place that is no stranger to hardship, but that always rises to meet it with strength and solidarity. A Photographer's Vision Omer's work is a testament to the power of photography to connect people, to bridge divides, and to foster empathy. His lens captures both the beauty and the pain of the world, inviting viewers to look beyond the surface and see the stories that
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lie beneath. Whether he is photographing a serene landscape, a joyful celebration, or a moment of deep sorrow, Omer's images always carry a sense of humanity—a reminder that we are all in this together. "Photography became a part of my story early in life on trips with my father," Omer says. "My father always saw the beauty in what others might consider broken. He taught me so much, and documenting journalistically through photography—capturing people’s stories, giving voices to people and places that might otherwise be overlooked—is important to me, as it was to him." Omer's journey has taken him from the deserts of Namibia to the mountains of Appalachia, from moments of profound beauty to scenes of deep tragedy. Through it all, his camera has been a constant companion—a tool for documenting, for connecting, and for bearing witness. His photographs tell the stories of people and places that might otherwise be forgotten, inviting us all to look closer, to listen, and to care. The Story Behind The Lens Behind every photograph is a story, and for Omer, that story often begins with a desire to connect—to understand the people he meets, the places he visits, and the experiences he witnesses. His images are not just pictures; they are windows into the lives of others, capturing moments that speak to the shared human experience.
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23 In Asheville, Omer has found a community that reflects the values he holds dear— kindness, resilience, and a deep connection to the land. His photographs of the flood are a tribute to this community, to the people who have opened their hearts and homes to help one another, and to the spirit of Appalachia that continues to inspire him. For Omer, photography is more than a career or a hobby—it is a calling. It is a way of honoring his father's legacy, of bearing witness to the world around him, and of connecting with others on a deep and meaningful level. Through his lens, Omer invites us to see the world as he does—with curiosity, with compassion, and with an unyielding belief in the power of human connection.
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24 By Carmen Eckard Photography by Jon Eckard The French Broad River has always been at the heart of Marshall, North Carolina—a source of life and beauty, but also of danger. When Hurricane Helene struck, the river turned from a gentle companion into a relentless force, swelling its banks and surging into the town. On that fateful day, the water rose 27 feet, filling the first floor of the Old Jail and leaving a thick layer of mud across every street, every home, and every cherished landmark. But as we soon found out, this story was never really about the destruction. It was about what came next. When we visited Marshall just two weeks after the hurricane, we expected to find devastation— and it was certainly there. Mud caked the streets and the smell of dampness hung in the air. But something else was in the air too—determination, optimism, and, most of all, community. Marshall had already begun to rebuild, and in the center of it all was Josh Copus, a potter and community organizer who owns the Old Jail, a historic building that has long served as a symbol of the town’s resilience. Marshall Rising: Art, Resilience, and Community After Hurricane Helene
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“The story here in Marshall is actually a story of human perseverance in the face of destruction,” Josh told us as we stood just outside of the Old Jail, the waterline still visible just above our heads. “We all went through despair, but despair is a dead end. On Sunday, we just started. Our town just started. We didn’t wait for anyone to come save us. We just got to work, and that’s actually how we’ve been able to heal. We’re not only getting rid of the mud and fixing our buildings. We’re fixing our hearts and our souls through this work.” A Beacon in the Chaos: Nanostead LLC On the outskirts of town, Nanostead LLC has become the beating heart of the recovery efforts. Josh introduced us to his friend, Jeramy Stauffer, who owns the tiny home building company. In the days following the flood, Jeramy and his team transformed Nanostead’s property into a fully operational base camp for recovery efforts. Everything needed to rebuild was there—tools, supplies, meals, even showers and a relaxation tent for volunteers. “Well, so, when the disaster happened, of course, on the 27th, we just kinda went around and saw the devastation happening, and then Monday rolled around and we came down, and it was just like people just standing there trying to figure out what to do next. And then Tuesday, I guess it was Monday afternoon, people started really, like, cleaning up the streets and they had machines everywhere and they were out working. The workers and volunteers were muddy and nasty. And we just wanted to give them a place that they could come eat and maybe get some volunteers shuttled down. When that started happening, then all of a sudden, this became a hub of information,” Jeramy recalled. The recovery efforts at Nanostead were not just about efficiency—they were about caring for people. Flowers adorned the tables in the makeshift dining room, and the kitchen served freshly prepared meals throughout the day. Mercy Chef, a disaster relief organization, initially offered to provide 1,500 meals a day. Jeramy modestly accepted 250. By the time dinner rolled around, they were already serving 500, and today they serve over 1,000 meals a day, sending some out to other locations in need.
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“We've become the main area for all tools and supplies for cleanup for, you know, for local people to have generators, dehumidifiers, heaters, you name it. Just everything. Chainsaws. And then once we got it out there, I was like, people just started coming from, like, all around,” Jeramy explained. “We wanted to make sure we provided volunteer protection downtown where they're down there working. So that's why we set up the PPE tent. So we made it kinda, like, to where volunteers wanted to come here because they knew they were gonna be safe there. They didn't have to bring their own supplies.” Photo by Omer Fichman
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27 The operation Jeramy and his team set up was thorough— protective gear for every volunteer, decontamination showers, and a system for sanitizing and reusing equipment to avoid waste. The focus was not only on physical safety but also on the volunteers’ well-being. They set up a relaxation tent with massages, essential oils, and a place to decompress. Jeramy knew that taking care of the people who showed up to help was just as important as the work itself. Volunteers needed a place to rest, to find comfort, and to reconnect with themselves after spending hours in the muck and chaos. The relaxation tent became a sanctuary where people could let go of their tension, even if just for a little while. Massage therapists worked tirelessly, easing the aches of those who had given everything to help others. The scent of lavender and eucalyptus filled the space, providing a calming contrast to the harshness of the cleanup outside. Essential oils were offered, not just for their physical benefits, but for their ability to help volunteers find moments of peace. Jeramy and his team understood that this work wasn’t just about rebuilding structures; it was about nurturing the human spirit, ensuring that everyone who came to help felt valued and supported. The atmosphere they created at Nanostead was one of genuine care—a reminder that even in the face of devastation, humanity’s capacity to uplift one another could prevail. “This is the mountains of North Carolina we’re talking about. We take care of our people.” Photo by Omer Fichman
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28 The Old Jail: A Symbol of Resilience At the center of Marshall stands the Old Jail, a building with a rich history, now turned into a symbol of the town’s resilience. Josh Copus, along with three friends, purchased the Old Jail at a property auction in 2016. It had been the oldest operational jail in North Carolina when it closed in 2012, after 107 years of service. Since then, Josh had transformed it into a restaurant, a boutique hotel, and a gathering space for the community. “We spent five years creatively readapting the use of the Old Jail. I own Zadie's, which is a restaurant, and the Old Marshall Jail Hotel, which is a cool, rad art hotel. This building is a cornerstone of our community. I’ve had people come up to me and say, ‘We need Zadie's. We need it. We’re counting on you.’ And I don’t see that as pressure. I see it as motivation. This whole thing is a sculpture. It’s a social practice art piece. I’m more interested in working with people and activating spaces than just making objects. What I really do is make place.” The Old Jail, like much of Marshall, bore the scars of the flood. The water rose 27 feet, filling the entire first floor. Outside, a flood meter marked the height of the waters, a stark reminder of nature’s power. But Josh was undeterred. “This is not a tale of a town that was destroyed. The town is not a collection of buildings. The people make the town, and our people are the best. We’re here. We’re committed. We’re gonna rebuild this town, and it’s gonna be better than ever. This is the phoenix. We’re coming out of the ashes.”
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29 The Past and Present: A Tale of Two Floods As Josh spoke, it became clear that this was not the first time Marshall had faced such devastation. The flood of 1916 had struck the same areas— Asheville, Bat Cave, Chimney Rock, Marshall, Morganton, Swannanoa, Biltmore Village, and the French Broad River regions—leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. During the 1916 flood, the French Broad River rose to unprecedented levels, washing away homes, bridges, and businesses. The people of Marshall and surrounding communities were left to rebuild from scratch, relying on each other to survive and restore their lives. “The cycle of disaster repeats itself,” Josh said. “There’s an outflow of support, and then in two weeks, everyone just goes back to their lives. But we’re still gonna be here. This is gonna take us months, and it’s really gonna take us years. The thing I want the world to know is that we’re not going anywhere, and we need to maintain a level of support here for this town over the long term. When we get this town back on its feet, come visit us. The people make the town, and our people are what make Marshall strong.” The flood of 1916 and Hurricane Helene were separated by over a century, but the spirit of Marshall remained unchanged. The people of Marshall had faced down the river before, and they would do it again—together.
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30 Community Efforts: Healing Through Work The recovery efforts in Marshall were not just about rebuilding structures; they were about rebuilding spirits. From the very beginning, the people of Marshall took charge of their own recovery, not waiting for outside help. Jeramy and his team at Nanostead provided the resources, the tools, and the food, but it was the people of Marshall who did the work. The teamwork was evident everywhere—people shoveling mud, repairing buildings, organizing supplies, and cooking meals. Everyone had a role to play, and it was a true community effort. Heather Willoughby, the lead administrator at Nanostead, played a huge role in keeping everything running smoothly, managing the logistics behind the scenes. She coordinated the influx of donations, ensured that supplies were distributed efficiently, and made sure that everyone had what they needed to keep going. Heather’s work was crucial in making the operation seamless, and her dedication was evident in every aspect of the recovery process. Meanwhile, Tasha Pumphrey took charge of communications, ensuring that people knew what was happening and how they could help. Tasha made sure that volunteers, residents, and organizers all stayed informed, creating a steady flow of information that kept everyone on the same page. Her Photo courtesy of Library of Congress
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31 efforts allowed people to act quickly and efficiently, whether that meant sending volunteers to a specific area or getting supplies to a family in need. Communication was key, and Tasha’s ability to keep everything connected made a huge difference. “It’s like it turned into a corporation somehow,” Jeramy said, laughing. “A very well-oiled machine. No different than what I do on a regular basis with my business, just times a thousand. We’ve heard from many people in FEMA that we have one of the most organized setups around, which is awesome.” The broader support also played a key role. FEMA was in town helping residents sign up for aid, distributing essential supplies, and coordinating logistics to streamline recovery efforts. The National Guard had been on the ground providing assistance for weeks, helping with debris removal and delivering supplies to those who needed them most. Even the active military had joined in, coming to Nanostead every day to support the community. Their willingness to lend a hand was a testament to the spirit of solidarity that had taken root in Marshall. “They’re just like, ‘What can we do for you?’” Jeramy said. “And that’s what it’s all about—people showing up for each other.” Hope for the Future As the days turn into weeks, the people of Marshall continue their work, undeterred by the challenges they face. The recovery is far from over, but the progress is undeniable. The town is healing, not just in its physical appearance but in the hearts of its people. “My optimism is not an act,” Josh said. “I got really sad. And what gave me the strength and resolve to move forward was seeing the people in my town do the same thing. We just set an example for each other. So I show up every day, and I just try to maintain as much of a positive attitude as possible because that’s what it takes.” Photo courtesy of Old Marshall Jail
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The people of Marshall are not waiting for anyone to come save them. They are saving themselves, and in doing so, they are building something even stronger than what had been there before. The community spirit that has been forged in the wake of Hurricane Helene will last much longer than the damage left behind by the storm. An Invitation to the World Josh had a message for anyone who wanted to help. “When we get this town back on its feet, come visit us. This is not a tale of a town that was destroyed. This is a story of resurrection. We’re coming out of the ashes, and it’s gonna be better than ever.” For now, the work continues. Volunteers are still needed, and donations are welcome. The Nanostead Charity Foundation had been established to support the recovery efforts, and people could visit helpmarshall.org to learn more. But more than anything, Marshall needs people to remember. The recovery is not something that will be completed in a few weeks or even a few months. It will take years, and the people of Marshall are committed for the long haul. They are not going anywhere, and they hope the world will stand with them as they rebuild. “This town is not a collection of buildings,” Josh said. “The people make the town, and our people are the best. We’re here. We’re committed. We’re gonna rebuild this town, and it’s gonna be better than ever. This is the phoenix. We’re coming out of the ashes. And that’s what’s up.” The Spirit of the Mountains Marshall is a beautiful, artistic mountain town that embodies community, creativity, and resilience. The recovery efforts are more than just rebuilding—they are transforming Marshall into something even more vibrant. At Foothills Digest, we value the spirit of community and perseverance, and Marshall's journey is a testament to that spirit. To those who have helped, thank you. To those who haven’t, come see the art, music, and resilience of a community rising stronger than ever. This is Marshall. This is hope. Photos on this page are by Omer Fichman
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When the Rivers Rise Western North Carolina's Resilience from 1916 to Today In the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, the people of western North Carolina are no strangers to hardship. Over a century ago, the Great Flood of 1916 ravaged the region, sweeping away homes, people, and history. Now, history has echoed through time as Hurricane Helene has brought similar devastation. Though the waters rose, the resilience of the people remained steadfast. This is a story not just of floods, but of community, endurance, and the spirit to rebuild. The Great Flood of 1916: A Historical Overview It began with rain—days of it. On July 5, 1916, a tropical storm from the Gulf soaked the already saturated mountains of western North Carolina. The French Broad River rose eight feet above normal, but little did the residents know that the worst was yet to come. Nine days later, on July 14, a second storm moved inland from Charleston, dumping as much as 22 inches of rain in parts of the region in just 24 hours—setting a national record at the time. The flood's impact was immediate and overwhelming. In Asheville, the French Broad River swelled to over 1,300 feet wide—a foaming, writhing torrent that tore through Biltmore Village. Throughout the region, railroad tracks dangled in midair, and the very landscape seemed to have shifted. Impact on Key Regions in 1916 Asheville: On the morning of July 16, the Swannanoa River and the French Broad River both rose rapidly, flooding streets and homes throughout Asheville. The relentless waters inundated entire neighborhoods, submerging homes and businesses. Residents scrambled to higher ground as the rivers surged, leaving many stranded. The flooding damaged critical infrastructure, washing away roads, bridges, and cutting off transportation and communication lines. Asheville’s power plant was destroyed, plunging the city into darkness and making recovery efforts even more challenging. Days later, the headline read, “Asheville today staggers under the greatest catastrophe it has ever known." Despite the chaos, the people of Asheville showed incredible resilience, coming together to support each other through the immediate crisis and working tirelessly to rebuild their beloved city. Courtesy of Pack Memorial Library
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Biltmore Village: The streets of Biltmore Village were completely submerged as the Swannanoa River rose, affecting homes, businesses, and residents. Edith Vanderbilt, owner of the Biltmore Estate, stepped into action, passing out sandwiches and coffee as a crowd gathered at the river’s edge, watching helplessly as residents clung to a tree, later known as the "Death Tree." Only one person—James Lipe's daughter Kathleen—was saved after hours of clinging to the tree. The damage left much of Biltmore Village in need of extensive rebuilding. Bat Cave: Bat Cave faced significant destruction, with entire sections of highway washed away, leaving the community isolated. The headline read, "Eight more drowned in Bat Cave section according to reports: people cut off from food supplies and many are reported starving. One body is found." (Asheville Citizen). Marshall: The scene in Marshall was equally dire. Young Herman Guthrie, just 15 years old, watched as the kitchen of his family’s café broke free and floated downstream, with his father and aunt still on the roof. When they tried to swim to safety, the kitchen overturned, and they were lost to the waters. The story of Herman’s loss became a poignant reminder of the human cost of such disasters. Chimney Rock: Reports circulated that Chimney Rock Village had virtually been washed away by the floodwaters. The headline read, "Village of Chimney Rock Reported Gone." Hotels and post offices were swept into the boulder-filled current, and new river channels carved banks as high as 75 feet. Swannanoa: The town of Swannanoa was heavily impacted by the flood, with homes, farms, and businesses submerged as the Swannanoa River surged beyond its banks. Many residents were forced to evacuate, leaving behind their possessions to the rising waters. The community faced significant damage, with roads and infrastructure washed away, isolating the town for days. Morganton: In Morganton, the Catawba River rose to 41 feet, inundating homes and businesses. Many residents were trapped on rooftops overnight, facing the terrifying force of the rising waters. Rescuers worked tirelessly, risking their own lives to bring stranded neighbors to safety. The aftermath saw extensive damage to infrastructure, with bridges washed away and roads rendered impassable. Despite the destruction, the people of Morganton came together to support one another, demonstrating the resilience that has come to define the region in times of crisis. Azalea: The town of Azalea, located near Asheville, was almost completely destroyed by the flood. Much of its infrastructure, including homes and businesses, was swept away. Unlike other communities, Azalea was never fully rebuilt and gradually faded from the map, although it is commemorated by a park in Asheville. Courtesy of Library of Congress Courtesy of Library of Congress
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36 Courtesy of SwannanoaValley Museum and History Center The Flood of 1940 The Great Flood of 1916 was not the only catastrophic flood to strike western North Carolina. In August of 1940, the region was again devastated by torrential rains and massive flooding. This time, the catalyst was a combination of a stalled weather front and remnants of a tropical storm, which dumped over 20 inches of rain in some areas over a period of several days. Rivers and creeks surged beyond their banks, causing widespread destruction. In many places, the damage rivaled or even surpassed that of 1916. The Swannanoa River, French Broad River, and Catawba River all rose to dangerous levels, submerging towns and isolating communities. In Boone, the flooding was particularly severe, with downtown streets underwater and many homes washed away. Landslides were common, blocking roads and destroying buildings, and the lack of modern infrastructure made rescue efforts difficult. The 1940 flood left an indelible mark on the region, prompting further efforts to improve flood management and infrastructure resilience. One of the most enduring impacts of the 1940 flood was the increased focus on soil conservation and reforestation. The devastation highlighted the need to protect the region’s natural resources to prevent future disasters, leading to more aggressive conservation policies. The event also led to the creation of additional flood control measures, including the construction of dams and reservoirs to help manage water levels during heavy rain events. Parallels with Hurricane Helene The devastation of Hurricane Helene brought an eerie familiarity to western North Carolina. Again, the rivers rose—the French Broad, Swannanoa, Catawba, and Broad—affecting the same areas as in 1916. In Asheville, Biltmore Village faced extensive flooding, and Swannanoa saw roads and homes submerged under several feet of water. In Bat Cave and Chimney Rock, landslides and flooding blocked access and isolated residents, just as they had over a century before. The repeated devastation was a sobering reminder of nature’s power. Despite modern infrastructure and preparation, Helene highlighted the vulnerability of communities nestled along river valleys. Yet, the resilience displayed during both events serves as a testament to the spirit of the people here—determined to rebuild, just as their ancestors had done.
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37 WPCC.EDU (828) 448-3500 1001 BURKEMONT AVE, MORGANTON Achieve Success! Experience the pioneering spirit that awaits you. Environmental and Social Reflections The floods of 1916, 1940, and Hurricane Helene all underscore the delicate balance between nature and human habitation. In both 1916 and 1940, extensive logging and deforestation were blamed for exacerbating the flooding, leading to the creation of Pisgah National Forest to preserve the region's forests. Today, increased development and impervious surfaces continue to challenge the landscape’s ability to absorb heavy rains. Since the devastating floods of 1916 and 1940, western North Carolina has made significant progress in flood preparedness. Modern dams like Lake James, designed for flood control, help manage river levels during major storms, while the North Fork Reservoir in Asheville includes measures for controlled releases. The North Fork Dam played a critical role during Hurricane Helene. Clay Chandler, a spokesperson for Asheville's Water Resources Department, offered chilling perspective on how much more lethal the already catastrophic Tropical Storm Helene could have been during an Oct. 25 briefing. Chandler explained that previous improvements to the North Fork Dam very likely prevented "what is already a catastrophe from being exponentially worse." He stated, "If that North Fork Dam had failed and unleashed six billion gallons of water, it would have meant complete annihilation of everything and every person between Black Mountain and Biltmore Village." Chandler added that without the protection it provided, the loss would have been catastrophic. Updated flood maps help predict vulnerable areas, and many municipalities along the French Broad, Swannanoa, and Catawba Rivers have revised building ordinances to raise structures above base flood elevation. Boone has improved drainage systems and created floodplains, while Morganton and Marshall installed river gauges and early warning systems to alert residents. Today, collaboration between local governments, emergency services, and conservation organizations has enhanced resilience and safety, turning past lessons into future protection. Looking Forward: Lessons from the Past The floods of 1916, 1940, and Hurricane Helene show that western North Carolina is always vulnerable to flooding—but they also demonstrate the community's resilience. Through history, the people here have rebuilt, helped each other, and adapted to challenges. The spirit of those who faced the worst and persevered lives on today in the firefighters, volunteers, and citizens who step up in times of need. The waters have tested them, but they have never broken them.
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Story by Carmen Eckard Photography by Aaron Rigsby When Hurricane Helene struck western North Carolina, the power of nature was both awe-inspiring and deeply destructive. Amidst the chaos, we were fortunate to have storm chaser Aaron Rigsby on the ground, capturing the unfolding story with his lens. Aaron's breathtaking photos and invaluable updates provided not only a glimpse into the storm's raw force but also a sense of clarity and awareness for those of us anxiously following the situation. We are immensely grateful for his presence, dedication, and the powerful images that helped us understand and navigate this historic event. CHASING HELENE WITH AARON RIGSBY
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39 For Aaron Rigsby, the story of storm chasing began with fear. "My biggest fear turned into my biggest passion, and I was blessed enough to turn my biggest passion into my career," Aaron shared. Growing up, he was terrified of storms, yet deeply fascinated by them. He found himself reading books about flooding, lightning, and tornadoes in the school library. The journey took a major turn in 2010, when a tornado hit his hometown, igniting a desire to understand these powerful events from up close. "I knew I wanted to start chasing storms," he explained. That determination led Aaron on his first trip to Tornado Alley in 2012, and in the years since, his camera has documented some of the most harrowing and beautiful displays of nature's fury. Aaron has become a renowned freelance videographer for AccuWeather, with his footage featured around the world. Along the way, he transformed his fear into not only a passion but a career that offers both education and insight. "Over the course of those 14 years, my videos have been featured all over the world, capturing severe weather in ways never before seen," he said. One of Aaron's most memorable experiences happened during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. He described the scene as both terrifying and beautiful—an unforgettable moment etched into his memory. As the hurricane stalled over the Texas coast, Aaron and his team faced relentless winds of over 130 mph. He recalled a moment when "all of our ears violently popped," and they discovered that the storm's immense pressure had ripped off parts of their hotel building. And yet, amidst this chaos, Aaron also saw something surreal: "We entered the eye, and we could look up and see stars and the Milky Way galaxy while lightning was illuminating the stadium effect of the hurricane. It was the most beautiful, yet terrifying thing I think I have ever seen to this date." It was a moment of fragile calm amid nature's fury—a testament to both the power and strange beauty of the storm.
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During Hurricane Helene, Aaron faced some of his toughest challenges yet. Western North Carolina was heavily impacted, with numerous road closures and communication challenges. As the sole storm chaser on the scene, Aaron found himself unable to be everywhere at once, while residents turned to his social media for updates and safety checks on loved ones. "Residents were flooding to my Facebook page, begging me to check on locations of loved ones," Aaron recalled. "It was like I had taken on the Mt. Everest of storm chasing." Despite the obstacles, Aaron’s skill, determination, and years of experience allowed him to document Helene in a way few others could. The logistical challenges were immense, with blocked roads and washed-out bridges creating a labyrinthine path through the impacted areas. "It was physically and mentally exhausting," Aaron admitted. "I had to plan each move carefully, making sure I could get in and out of areas safely while still capturing the storm's impact." He drove for hours on end, often with little sleep, all to provide the images and information that could make a difference for those in harm's way. One of the most poignant moments during Hurricane Helene came when Aaron found himself in a small mountain town, cut off from the outside world. "I remember standing there, seeing people helping each other dig out of the mud and debris," he said. "It reminded me why I do this—not just for the thrill, but to tell the stories of resilience, of people coming together in times of crisis." The photos he captured that day tell a story of both heartbreak and hope—of homes lost but neighbors united in rebuilding. Aaron sees storm chasing as more than just the pursuit of adrenaline. "A lot of people see storm chasers as thrill seekers, or 'wishing' for damage and destruction, and that's just not the case," he explained. Instead, he aims to bring awareness to the true severity of storms, educating the public and potentially saving lives. His powerful imagery—whether from drones, interviews, or stories of survival—offers a vivid reminder of what severe weather can do. "It might inspire someone one day to take the warnings more seriously and potentially save lives," Aaron said.
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Aaron's work, including his contributions during Hurricane Helene, plays an invaluable role in public safety and raising awareness about severe weather. Through his lens, we see both the devastation and the resilience of those affected. His documentation of Helene's impact is not just a record of destruction—it's a reminder of the strength of the people of western North Carolina and the importance of understanding the power of nature.
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2220 Hwy 70 SE Suite 179 Hickory NC 28602 828-838-1011 Storm chasing is not without its dangers, and Aaron is acutely aware of the risks involved. He recalls moments when he found himself too close for comfort—such as the time his ears popped violently during Hurricane Harvey, or when he had to scramble to find shelter as a tornado shifted direction unexpectedly. "It's all about calculated risks," he said. "You have to know when to get out and when to stay put. My goal is to document these events, not to become part of the story." His approach to storm chasing involves meticulous preparation, from studying weather patterns to planning escape routes. Over 120 NC Artisans with only handcrafted items, antiques and collectibles. Located on the west side of The Hickory Furniture Mart.
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44 Despite the inherent dangers, Aaron believes that storm chasing has a purpose beyond the thrill. "These storms are powerful and destructive, but they also have lessons to teach us," he said. By documenting their impact, Aaron hopes to contribute to a better understanding of severe weather—knowledge that could lead to improved building codes, more effective emergency responses, and ultimately, saved lives. "If my footage can help even one person understand the importance of taking a storm warning seriously, then it's worth it," he added. Aaron's efforts during Hurricane Helene did not go unnoticed. His photos were shared widely, not only by local residents but by news outlets looking to convey the true scope of the devastation. "It was overwhelming at times," Aaron admitted. "I was getting messages from people all over, asking me what was happening, if their loved ones were safe, and where the worst damage was. It was a lot of pressure, but I felt it was my responsibility to help however I could." As a freelance videographer for AccuWeather and with his footage featured worldwide, Aaron understands the power of storytelling. "It's one thing to hear about a hurricane or see a news clip, but it's another to see it through the eyes of someone who's there, experiencing it," he said. "I want people to understand what these storms are really like—the fear, the beauty, the destruction, and the hope that follows." His work not only captures the intensity of these natural events but also the human stories behind them—the resilience, the heartbreak, and the courage of those affected.
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46 Aaron emphasizes that storm chasing is not merely about showcasing nature’s raw power; it’s about conveying the emotional journey that communities go through when confronted by these forces. "I think there is something deeply compelling about being able to tell these stories from ground zero," he explained. "When I photograph a family coming together after losing everything, or see neighbors helping each other through waist-deep floodwaters, it speaks to the kind of resilience that’s often hidden behind the headlines." This personal connection to his work has made Aaron not just a documentarian of severe weather but a storyteller of the human condition in the face of adversity. For Aaron, the goal is always to make the unseen seen. He wants his audience to witness not just the chaos but also the quiet moments of hope that emerge from disaster. "I want people to see that even amidst destruction, there’s still beauty—there's still community, compassion, and hope. It’s not just about the storm, it’s about what comes after, the rebuilding, the strength, and the unity that these events bring out in people." His passion for storytelling extends beyond the moments of devastation, capturing the courage it takes for people to rebuild their lives.
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47 Aaron’s approach to storm chasing is about using his lens to bridge the gap between fear and understanding, between the chaos of nature and the strength of the human spirit. "If my photos and videos can make even one person pause and realize the real impact of these storms—the way they change lives—I think I've done my job." Through his work, Aaron invites viewers to look beyond the headlines, to see the full picture of what it means to live through, endure, and ultimately overcome the forces of nature. To Aaron, storm chasing is not just about documenting nature's fury—it's about connecting people to the reality of these events. "I hope that my work can help bridge the gap between the science of weather and the human experience," he said. "These storms affect real people, and I want to make sure their stories are told." His dedication to capturing the truth, even in the face of danger, is what makes his work so impactful. To Aaron Rigsby, we extend our sincere gratitude for braving the storm and showing us the truth through his eyes. His dedication and courage remind us of the importance of understanding and respecting the power of nature, and his images serve as a powerful reminder of both the beauty and the devastation that come with it. Through his lens, we see not just the force of Hurricane Helene, but also the resilience and spirit of the people of western North Carolina. You can find more of his work on Instagram at instagram.com/aaronrigsby and on Youtube at youtube. com/@StormChaserAaronRigsby.
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The mountain came down on Big Plumtree Creek in the early hours of a quiet morning, shattering the peace that had always defined this tucked-away hollow. The sound was deafening, the kind of sound that stays with you—mud roaring down the slope, glass exploding into shards, walls groaning as they shifted off their foundation. It was a sound that filled the air, forcing its way into every breath and every heartbeat. It was the sound of a world changing in an instant. For Joe and Sereta Calloway, it was a moment that split their lives in two. The river had been rising all morning—floodwaters swallowing the bridge by 8 a.m., and by 9, the bridge was gone. The rain hadn’t stopped, and with it came the worry that the mountain might follow. Paw Joe, as everyone knew him, had always said, "Someday that mountain is going to come down on us." It was a fear that lingered in the back of everyone's mind, but no one truly believed it would happen—until it did. Paw Joe and Robert Ross, Sereta’s father, had been watching the river rise from the window of the old family home. Paw Joe, always the stoic one, had given his wife, Granny Dora, a bag of important belongings just moments before the mountainside broke loose. He told her to hang on to it no matter what. Paw Joe was sitting on his favorite couch—the only one he ever sat on in the house—when the mountain gave way. Mud, rocks, and trees came crashing down, striking the house like a tidal wave. Glass flew everywhere, and the mud pushed everyone against the walls. In those terrifying moments, it felt like the world had turned black, like someone had turned the lights off, and all they could do was try to survive. Joe and Sereta were on the opposite side of the house and had to jump across a smaller landslide to reunite with their family. They gathered everyone they could into the bedroom and bathroom, but there was no time to think, no time to count heads. Sereta shouted, “Run!” as the house shifted nearly fifteen feet off its foundation, pushed toward the raging river. It was chaos, and everyone scrambled to escape through a window—the only way out. In the rush, they thought Robert was right behind them, but he wasn’t. And Paw Joe, who had always been there for them, was still in the living room. When they reached the highway, the rain suddenly stopped, and an eerie calm settled in. Granny Dora, pale as a ghost, turned to her son Joe and asked, “Where’s Paw?” Joe, his voice breaking, could only say, “Mom, he’s gone.” What followed were days of heartbreak and searching. Robert’s small dog, Diesel, led the rescuers—first to Robert, found not far from the house, and then, six long days later, to Paw Joe, almost a mile downstream. Diesel, with his loyalty and persistence, became a symbol of hope in the midst of loss. The family was left with the painful task of rebuilding, not just their lives, but their hearts, knowing they had lost two of the most important people in their world. Growing up in the holler, surrounded by family, Betsy Ross, granddaughter of Paw Joe and daughter-in-law of Robert Ross, remembers it as a simple, close-knit life. "It was just a simple walk through the woods or a jump across rocks in the creek to get to their home," she said. "It was nice and reassuring as a kid to be so close to our family. Family dinners were one of the best things there because you never had to worry about being left out when there were so many of us." A holler is more than just a narrow valley between mountains; it’s a place where family lives within arm’s reach, where support is never far away. For Betsy, Paw Joe and Granny Dora had always been constants, the steady presence in a world that seemed unchanging. "I thought they were always going to be there. Having one without the other just seems so strange and disheartening." Paw Joe was more than just a grandfather; he was the anchor of the family. He was a man who loved deeply and without reservation. He treated all of his many children and grandchildren the same—with kindness, love, and a gentle spirit. He was known for his garden, where he grew the best onions around, always sharing his harvest with anyone who needed it. He loved to talk about the days when he’d go hunting and fishing, and he could often be found sitting on his bench out front, drinking a cup of coffee, watching the world go by. He worried constantly about Granny Dora, especially after she fought stomach cancer twice, and he always made sure she was taken care of. When you left Paw Joe’s house, he’d tell you he loved you, to be safe, and to holler if you ever needed anything. He was the kind of man who made everyone feel like family. Robert Ross was also beloved. He was the kind of father who would take his kids to the dirt track or the drag strip, who shared his love of music with his daughter Wendy. He lived with Joe and Sereta, and his presence was a constant source of strength for the family. He was always there, always ready to lend a hand or share a smile. When the landslide hit, he was right there with Paw Joe, watching the rain, watching the river rise, as if they could will it to stop with their presence alone. In the aftermath of the tragedy, what has kept the family going is each other. They’ve found strength in the simple fact that they survived, that they still have each other to hold onto. Kylee Calloway, daughter-in-law of Joe and Sereta and married to their son Joe Allen, who has two young children, David and Sophia, said it best: “Adrenaline kept us going. We just knew we had to keep going.” And Joe, echoing the words of his father, said, “Dad always said you’ve gotta keep going, you’ve gotta keep living.” This story is both a memorial to two men who were deeply loved and a testament to the resilience of a family who has faced unimaginable loss. It’s a story of love, of loss, and of the strength it takes to keep moving forward, even when the mountain comes down. The family will rebuild, because that’s what Paw Joe would have wanted. And as they do, they carry with them the memory of the man who always sat on the same couch, the man who always shared his onions, and the man who always told them to keep living. A Holler Remembers: A Tribute to Paw Joe and Robert Ross
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Paw Joe and Granny Dora The all ll ways The all ll ways Robert with Grandkids Robert The en Robert, Joe, Joe Allen &David The all ll ways
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50 The Science Behind Hurricane Helene: Unraveling the Storm's Devastation in Western North Carolina In the wake of Hurricane Helene, residents across Western North Carolina found themselves grappling with devastating floods, landslides, and destroyed communities. This storm, unlike others in recent memory, demonstrated the destructive power of hurricanes on mountainous terrain, where the effects of extreme weather are often magnified. But what made Helene so uniquely dangerous for the region? To answer this, we need to dive into the science behind the storm and how it interacted with the complex landscape of the Appalachian Mountains. Atmospheric Conditions and Helene's Impact Hurricane Helene formed in the Atlantic, as many hurricanes do, developing from a tropical disturbance that encountered favorable conditions—warm sea surface temperatures and low vertical wind shear—which allowed it to rapidly intensify into a major hurricane. Unlike some other storms, Helene's path was actually well forecasted, with meteorologists accurately predicting its trajectory well in advance. After making landfall along the Gulf Coast, the storm moved inland across the Southeast and headed toward the Appalachian Mountains. This trajectory is not uncommon, as many of the region's major floods have been caused by the remnants of Gulf storms. Typically, hurricanes lose much of their power after making landfall due to cooler temperatures and increased friction from the terrain. However, Helene encountered a unique set of meteorological factors that sustained its strength further inland than usual. A high-pressure ridge over the Mid-Atlantic states, combined with a trough of low pressure in the Ohio Valley, helped steer the remnants of the hurricane straight into Western North Carolina. The Appalachian Mountains, with their steep slopes and narrow valleys, compounded the effects, creating conditions that amplified rainfall and increased the risk of flash flooding. Precursor Rain Event and Orographic Lift One of the key factors that led to the disastrous flooding in Western North Carolina was a phenomenon known as orographic lift. As Helene's remnants moved over the region, moist air from the storm was forced to rise rapidly when it encountered the steep terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This process caused the air to cool and condense, leading to extremely heavy rainfall over a concentrated area. In addition to this, there was a Precursor Rain Event (PRE) in the days leading up to the storm, which had already saturated the soil and waterways. This combination of the PRE and the intense rainfall from Helene transformed what might have been a disaster event into a catastrophic one. In some locations, over a foot of rain fell within just a few days, overwhelming rivers, streams, and reservoirs. The intense rainfall led to widespread flooding in communities situated along the French Broad River, the Swannanoa River, and their tributaries. Unlike coastal regions that have extensive flood management infrastructure, much of Western North Carolina relies on natural waterways and smaller-scale flood control systems, which were not equipped to handle the deluge brought by Helene. As a result, rivers spilled over their banks, inundating homes and businesses, while the force of the water washed away roads and bridges.
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51 Landslides and Debris-Driven Destruction Another significant impact of Hurricane Helene in the region was the occurrence of numerous landslides. The heavy rains saturated the soil, reducing its stability and triggering landslides across the mountainous landscape. Steep slopes, combined with the loose, weathered soil of the Appalachians, meant that large sections of hillsides became prone to collapse. These landslides not only destroyed infrastructure but also created dangerous conditions for emergency responders attempting to reach isolated communities. In addition to the direct destruction caused by landslides, the debris washed away into the floodwaters created another layer of devastation. Trees, cars, trucks, shipping containers, steel beams, and even entire houses were carried by the raging floodwaters, turning them into projectiles. Many bridges and other structures that could have otherwise handled the water flow were ultimately destroyed by these massive debris fields. When debris collided with bridges or other structures, the impact was often enough to dislodge them from their moorings, turning them into the next missile looking for its next impact. Climate Change: A Warning for the Future Hurricane Helene's impact on Western North Carolina is part of a broader trend of more frequent and intense extreme weather events due to climate change. Warmer ocean temperatures provide more energy for storms, while a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall. For mountainous regions like Western North Carolina, this means an increased risk of catastrophic flooding and landslides. Scientists blame climate change even though a similar flood happened 100 years ago because conditions today have changed significantly. The 1916 flood, like Hurricane Helene, involved two storms combining forces—one from the Gulf of Mexico and another from the Carolina coast. However, since the 1970s, the Gulf has warmed at twice the global ocean average, providing more energy for storms like Helene. Warmer water fuels hurricanes, making them more powerful. While extreme weather has always been part of our history, today we see these storms becoming both stronger and more frequent, as warmer waters and changing atmospheric conditions favor such dangerous sequences. Helene's devastation was compounded by a prior storm just a week earlier, similar to 1916, but such back-to-back storms are now more likely due to a warming climate. As we reflect on the devastation wrought by Helene, it's essential to consider the steps needed to prepare for future storms. Improved flood management, better early warning systems, and careful planning around where and how we build are all critical to reducing the risk to communities. The people of Western North Carolina have shown remarkable resilience in the face of this disaster, but without significant action, the increasing impacts of climate change may bring more frequent and severe challenges. Conclusion: A Community's Resilience Tested Hurricane Helene was a stark reminder of the power of nature and the vulnerability of mountain communities to extreme weather. The science behind the storm—its well-forecasted path, the impact of orographic lift, the Precursor Rain Event, and the resultant landslides and debris-driven destruction—helps us understand why it was so devastating for Western North Carolina. But more than that, Helene has underscored the need for greater preparedness and adaptation in the face of a changing climate. f D A Hurricane Helene triggered landslide caused a complete collapse of the roadbed A Hurricane Helene triggered landslide caused a complete collapse of the roadbed at Gooch Gap - Milepost 336 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Courtesy of NPS at Gooch Gap - Milepost 336 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Courtesy of NPS
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Rising Together: The Collective Response to Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina When Hurricane Helene struck western North Carolina, it left behind a path of destruction that spanned towns, forests, and roads, with communities grappling with flooded streets and destroyed homes. But in the face of adversity, the people of western North Carolina saw an outpouring of support from federal agencies, nonprofits, civilian pilots, and countless regular people who stepped up when it mattered most. The Federal Response: Strengths and Struggles In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the federal response was swift, but it faced several challenges. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared western North Carolina a disaster area within days of the storm's landfall, enabling immediate financial assistance to reach affected residents. Disaster Recovery Centers were set up in key locations to provide on-the-ground assistance, helping individuals apply for aid and receive essential resources, and the National Guard had boots on the ground. However, the response wasn’t without obstacles. The mountainous terrain of western North Carolina posed significant logistical challenges, with over 1900 landslides and thousands of downed trees, many of which destroyed roads and bridges. While larger roads were cleared relatively quickly, the sheer scale of the disaster meant it took longer than expected for many areas to become accessible again. Some towns were completely cut off for extended periods, and even Asheville was isolated for a few days. Roads to towns such as Marshall and Chimney Rock were flooded or obstructed, delaying federal assistance. Despite these challenges, the National Guard and FEMA workers persisted, coordinating with local authorities to distribute food, water, and emergency supplies to those in isolated areas. The federal government also provided funds to assist with debris removal, temporary housing, and road repairs, though many residents faced a long wait due to overwhelmed systems. Nonprofits on the Front Lines While fe deral assistance helped establish a foundation for recovery, nonprofit organizations played an essential role in ensuring that those left vulnerable received the care they needed. Groups like Beloved Asheville, The Cajun Navy 2016, and other nonprofits set up emergency shelters, distributed meals, and provided medical assistance. Their efforts were instrumental in reaching even the smallest and most remote communities, partnering with local groups to make sure help arrived where it was needed most. An extraordinary example of this community effort was the Mountain Mule Packer Ranch, whose mule teams were used to deliver supplies up roads that were otherwise impassable. Their determination and
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53 ingenuity ensured that vital resources reached people in areas that no vehicles could access. In Marshall, where floodwaters had reached record heights, a collective effort also emerged at Nanostead LLC, where tiny home builders offered their land and facilities as a makeshift recovery hub—providing not just practical resources like showers and food, but also a place where those affected could find comfort and solidarity. The Power of Community Response Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of the recovery effort was the response of regular people who saw a need and acted. Civilians donated millions of dollars to aid the recovery, and social media became a powerful tool to organize assistance. Within hours of the storm passing, groups like “Western NC Storm Relief” filled with offers of help—people offering to house displaced families, deliver groceries, and provide transportation to those stranded. Civilian pilots played a particularly crucial role, using small aircraft to deliver essential supplies to areas that were otherwise inaccessible. These contributions were vital to ensuring the immediate needs of isolated communities were met. Large businesses in the area stepped up to help, with Lowe's Hardware donating $2 million, and small businesses played key roles, such as Sparta Candle Company, which provided half a million dollars' worth of candles when power was out. Below, at right, is Dwayne, Sparta Candle Company's Tik-Tok darling, delivering candles. In Asheville, volunteers organized pop-up kitchens to feed victims and first responders, and musicians held benefit concerts to raise money for families who had lost everything. Local Heroes: Stories of Courage and Resilience Countless individuals emerged as heroes during the recovery process. In small towns across the region, residents led efforts to check on elderly neighbors who were stranded without power. Groups of volunteers organized to deliver food, water, and medical supplies on foot when roads were inaccessible. Their determination and leadership became a lifeline for many vulnerable residents. In several communities, local business owners came together to support each other. Owners of small shops and restaurants pooled their resources, providing free meals to emergency workers and displaced families. Despite losing much of their own inventory and suffering severe damage to their properties, they focused on helping others. Their spirit of generosity became a symbol of hope for the entire community. The Response from Utility Companies Water, power, and electricity were widely knocked out across western North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Photo by Omer Fichman
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Helene, and even three weeks later, some residents were still waiting for services to be restored. The number of downed power lines, damaged transformers, and flooded infrastructure made the recovery effort extremely challenging. Utility workers faced difficult conditions, including inaccessible roads and ongoing landslides, which hindered their ability to reach certain areas. Many water systems were compromised, requiring extensive repairs before they could be deemed safe for use again. In some remote areas, utility workers had to rely on helicopter support to access damaged infrastructure. Despite these difficulties, crews worked tirelessly, often around the clock, to restore services as quickly as possible. However, the scale of the damage meant that some communities faced extended outages, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure resilience in the face of future storms. One of the most challenging areas for utility companies was the restoration of power in remote mountain communities. In places like Little Switzerland and Linville Gorge, power lines had been completely wiped out by falling trees and landslides. Teams from Blue Ridge Energy and Duke Energy worked in tandem with local contractors, utilizing drones to assess damage and identify areas that required urgent attention. Helicopters were deployed to bring in materials and equipment, allowing workers to rebuild power lines in areas that were otherwise inaccessible. Public Health Challenges Another significant aspect of the recovery effort involved addressing public health challenges. Floodwaters had contaminated many of the water systems in the region, posing serious risks to residents. Public health officials, alongside nonprofit groups like Water Mission, worked diligently to set up mobile water purification units and distribute clean water. Health clinics were also set up in areas where medical facilities had been damaged or were overwhelmed by the influx of patients. There were also outbreaks of waterborne illnesses, such as gastrointestinal infections, due to the contamination of drinking water sources. Medical volunteers from organizations like Doctors Without
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Borders and the American Red Cross provided care to those affected, treating infections and educating residents on how to safely purify water. Mental health services were also a critical component of the recovery process, as many residents faced trauma from losing their homes and loved ones. Counseling centers and support groups were established to help individuals cope with the emotional toll of the disaster. Long-term Recovery and Rebuilding Efforts While the immediate response to Hurricane Helene focused on providing emergency relief, the long- term recovery and rebuilding efforts are just beginning. Many communities are now working on rebuilding homes, schools, and businesses that were damaged or destroyed. The state government has partnered with local municipalities to secure funding for infrastructure projects, including the rebuilding of bridges and roads that are more resilient to future storms. In the town of Marshall, residents are coming together to rebuild their community center, which served as a hub for social activities and community events. The rebuilding project is being funded in part by donations from local businesses and residents, as well as grants from the state. Volunteers from across the region have also come to help with construction, bringing with them skills and a sense of solidarity that is helping to lift the spirits of the town’s residents. In addition to physical rebuilding, there is a focus on economic recovery. Small businesses that were affected by the storm are receiving grants and low-interest loans to help them get back on their feet. Local chambers of commerce are working with business owners to develop strategies for recovery, including marketing campaigns to bring tourists back to the region. The Blue Ridge Parkway, a major attraction in western North Carolina, sustained damage in several areas, and efforts are underway to repair trails, overlooks, and visitor facilities in time for the next tourist season. The Role of Technology in Recovery Technology has played a crucial role in the recovery process. Drones have been used extensively to survey damage, particularly in areas that were difficult to access by ground. These aerial surveys provided valuable information to emergency responders, allowing them to prioritize resources and identify the most critical needs. Satellite imagery was also used to assess the extent of flooding and damage to infrastructure, providing a comprehensive overview that guided decision-making at the federal and state levels. Village of Chimney Rock
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Starlink satellite internet also played a crucial role in the recovery efforts. With communication infrastructure severely damaged, reliable internet connectivity became a lifeline for many isolated communities. Elon Musk donated 300 Starlink hardware units and made the service free for a month for anyone who had the hardware. This allowed emergency responders, volunteers, and residents to stay connected, share real-time information, and coordinate relief efforts more effectively. Starlink's rapid deployment and reliable service were instrumental in restoring communication, particularly in remote areas where traditional internet infrastructure was unavailable. Social media platforms became a vital communication tool during the recovery. Residents used platforms like Facebook and Twitter to share information about road closures, locate missing loved ones, and coordinate volunteer efforts. The hashtag #HeleneRecovery trended locally for weeks, serving as a rallying point for the community and a way to share stories of hope and resilience. Crowdfunding campaigns raised significant funds to help families rebuild, and community groups used online tools to match those in need with available resources. so used to assess the extent of flooding and damage to infrastructure, providing a comprehensive overview that guided decision-making at the federal and state levels. The Road to Recovery While the response to Hurricane Helene showcased the best of humanity, it also highlighted the importance of preparation and resilience. The combined efforts of federal agencies, nonprofits, and the people of western North Carolina ensured that many of the immediate needs were met, but the journey to full recovery is still underway. Roads remain damaged, homes must be rebuilt, and local businesses need support to get back on their feet. For many residents, rebuilding isn't just about restoring what was lost; it's also about creating something better, more resilient, and more connected. Towns across the region are exploring ways to make their infrastructure more sustainable and capable of withstanding future storms. Conversations about climate adaptation, flood mitigation, and smart development are now central to the rebuilding process. In the face of nature's wrath, the people here have shown that their spirit is unbreakable. They have rallied together, united by a love for their land and for each other, to begin the long journey toward recovery. And as the mountains stand tall, a testament to the power of nature, so too do the people who call them home— unyielding, proud, and determined to build a future worthy of their beautiful, enduring surroundings.
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58 Heroes Above the Storm The skies above Western North Carolina were filled with the sounds of helicopters and airplanes, a constant hum of hope against the backdrop of destruction left by Hurricane Helene. As the storm barreled through, it left communities isolated, roads impassable, and people in desperate need of basic supplies. It was in this chaos that two incredible organizations—Operation Helo out of Hickory and Operation Airdrop—emerged as beacons of hope. The scene was dramatic: aircraft of all types buzzing through the sky, loaded with food, water, medical supplies, and more. The urgency of reaching cut-off communities was palpable, and these operations were the answer to that call for help. Their missions brought together pilots, volunteers, and local residents, all dedicated to saving lives and delivering aid to those in dire need. Operation Helo, formed in the immediate aftermath of the storm, quickly became a crucial lifeline. Based out of Hickory Airport, they organized over 90 helicopters and 100 pilots, flying as many as 400 relief missions a day. Meanwhile, Operation Airdrop took shape at Jackson County Airport, where local leader Crystal Cochran rallied the community to receive supplies delivered by private pilots from across the country. Both organizations demonstrated the power of swift action, community involvement, and sheer determination in the face of catastrophe.
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59 Together, Operation Helo and Operation Airdrop proved that even in the midst of unprecedented devastation, ordinary people could come together to do extraordinary things. From the skies above, they were not just delivering supplies—they were delivering hope. The Formation of Operation Helo Operation Helo began with a simple but urgent call to action. Doug Jackson, who had seen firsthand the immediate need for air support in the wake of Hurricane Helene, reached out to his contacts, including Matt McSwain and Eric Robinson. The three of them quickly realized the extent of the devastation and understood that air support could be a game-changer for reaching isolated communities cut off by washed-out roads and destroyed infrastructure. McSwain and Robinson decided that Hickory Airport would serve as their operational base. With its strategic location and accessibility, it became the heart of Operation Helo. They began reaching out to pilots and putting the word out through their network, and soon enough, over 90 helicopters and 100 pilots had joined the cause. These pilots were from diverse backgrounds—some were commercial pilots, others were hobbyists—but they all had one goal: to help those in need. The scale of the operation grew rapidly. On the busiest days, Operation Helo coordinated as many as 400 relief missions, ferrying essential supplies such as food, water, and medical aid to areas that were otherwise unreachable. The pilots worked tirelessly, often flying multiple missions in a day to ensure that no one was left without help. But the success of Operation Helo was not just about the pilots—it was also about the community on the ground. The people of Hickory and the surrounding areas played an instrumental role in making the operation possible. Local residents volunteered their time to collect and sort supplies, raise funds for fuel, and provide logistical support for the ongoing missions. The sight of neighbors organizing diaper drives, food donations, and coordination efforts reflected the strength and resilience of the North Carolinian spirit. Eric Robinson, one of the co-founders, spoke of the incredible volunteer spirit: "We had such an amazing group of volunteers that we didn’t really focus on challenges. We met everything head on and remedied the 'challenge' immediately." This mindset of adaptability and determination helped Operation Helo overcome the many obstacles they faced, from fuel shortages to the unpredictable weather conditions that followed the storm. Together, the pilots and community members turned Hickory Airport into a hub of hope and relief. It was not just an airport—it was a lifeline for the people of Western North Carolina, connecting those who had the means to help with those who desperately needed it. Operation Helo demonstrated that in times of crisis, the combination of swift action, community involvement, and sheer willpower could achieve what might have seemed impossible. The Rise of Operation Airdrop at Jackson County In Jackson County, Operation Airdrop quickly became a symbol of community resilience, led by the determination and resourcefulness of local leader Crystal Cochran. When Helene devastated Western North Carolina, leaving many communities stranded without basic necessities, Crystal knew that action was needed. She used social media to rally volunteers, calling for people with trucks to meet her at the Jackson County Airport to receive the incoming supplies. The response was overwhelming. Neighbors, friends, and even strangers came forward, bringing their trucks, trailers, and sheer willpower. Crystal’s call to action transformed the airport into a hub of activity, with supplies coming in and going out as fast as they could be received and distributed. She recalled, “I was born to help people and I’ve always been that
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Jesse Onekhena DMD, MD Alex Krisko DMD, MD
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way. Just nothing of this magnitude... that’s what community does.” Her leadership became the heart of Operation Airdrop in Jackson County, a mission that united people from near and far. Jim Rowell, the airport manager, was essential in ensuring the smooth operation of the relief efforts at Jackson County Airport. His coordination with incoming pilots and management of logistics on the ground allowed for efficient handling of the large number of flights and supplies. Over the next several days, the airport saw over 450 flights and more than 900 individual operations, each flight packed with critical supplies like food, water, medical kits, and even specific items like insulin and baby formula. Supplies were flown in and then distributed through various means— trucks, trailers, helicopters, and even on foot, carried by volunteers into remote locations like Black Mountain, Burnsville, and Hendersonville. Pilots came from across the country, from states as far as North Dakota, Texas, and South Carolina. They flew their private planes and donated their time, fuel, and resources. Some even brought pre-packed supplies from home, ready to make a difference from the moment they landed. A notable donation came from the Las Vegas Raiders, who provided water and Gatorade leftover from a recent game, demonstrating the power of unity that transcended state lines. For thirteen intense days, the Jackson County Airport became a bustling center of relief and hope. The volunteers worked tirelessly, sorting, packing, and delivering supplies to people who had lost everything. They didn’t stop until they were sure that every corner of the county had been reached, and every family had access to food, water, and medical aid. After those initial thirteen days, Crystal began personally going into communities to distribute donated goods, ensuring that the aid reached the most vulnerable residents who were still struggling to recover. Crystal's determination was evident as she spoke about the effort: “I’m not gonna let somebody around me suffer when there’s something I know I can do about it.” Her refusal to back down, even when faced with the enormity of the need, inspired everyone around her. The airport became more than a place to land planes—it became a beacon of community spirit, with people coming together to help each other through the darkest of times.
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Operation Airdrop: Concord Airport Hub While Jackson County became a bustling center for receiving and distributing supplies, the Concord- Padgett Regional Airport also played a crucial role in the airlift response. The airport served as a key hub for Operation Airdrop, handling an incredible volume of incoming and outgoing flights. Over 350 supply flights by fixed-wing aircraft and 215 helicopter flights were coordinated from Concord, all aimed at delivering critical supplies to communities left isolated by the storm. The scene at Concord Airport was one of organized chaos. Planes were constantly arriving, their cargo holds packed with food, water, medicine, and other essential supplies. Volunteers worked tirelessly, loading and unloading the aircraft with efficiency and determination. Every plane that touched down meant more people would get the help they needed. One of those who responded to the call was Ryan Holt, an anesthesiologist from Wisconsin who owned a Cessna 182. Drawn to the efforts after seeing the devastation in Western North Carolina, Holt flew down to Concord and joined the relief mission. “It was some challenging flying,” Holt admitted, “but this has been such a positive experience. The people who organized this operation put their heart and soul into this.” His words echoed the sentiments of many of the pilots—ordinary people who were compelled to do something extraordinary. Volunteer heroes like Carrie Lee also made Concord Airport a place of hope and resilience. Carrie, a corporate flight attendant by profession, found herself spending her days sorting supplies and assisting with logistics in the hangars. It was grueling, physical work, but she found deep satisfaction in the efforts. “Today what was needed was medical supplies, and we had to scramble when we realized we were short,” she explained. “We found what we needed, loaded it, and got it onto a plane. It’s tiring, but it’s worth it—there are some good people in this world.” Concord’s operation was a well-oiled machine, but it was the people behind the scenes that kept everything running. From volunteer pilots to local residents showing up to help load supplies, the spirit of cooperation was palpable. There was an unwavering belief that every flight made a difference, every box loaded and unloaded was one step closer to saving a life. Despite the complexities of air traffic and logistical coordination, Concord Airport became a testament to the power of organized community response. The extraordinary number of flights operating in and
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63 fine art framing design - installations- gallery 215a 1st Avenue SW Hickory NC 28602 wednesday thursday friday 10 - 5 fanjoylabrenz.com out of Concord required strict coordination and incredible dedication from everyone involved. They handled everything from medical deliveries to essential goods for families who were cut off from any other supply chains, proving that even in the darkest of times, communities could pull together and do something truly remarkable. Ensuring Safe Air Operations Amid Chaos The airspace over Western North Carolina became extremely busy in the days following Hurricane Helene. With the number of aircraft operating in the area increasing by 300%, managing the chaos required careful coordination and strategic measures. Both military and civilian pilots were flying into the region, and the challenges of managing such heavy traffic were substantial. To ensure safe operations, several strategies were implemented by the FAA, FEMA, the North Carolina National Guard, and the Division of Aviation. One of the most effective measures was the introduction of Prior Permission Request (PPR) Lines. These phone lines allowed pilots to request landing times and parking space, helping to control the flow of aircraft into already congested airports. PPR lines were essential in preventing airports from becoming overwhelmed and helped keep everything organized. This strategy was first put in place at Asheville Regional Airport and later at Rutherford County, and it made a significant difference in managing the increased air traffic. Another safety strategy was the use of SAAFR Routes—designated airspace corridors that functioned like "roads in the sky" to separate military and civilian aircraft. This ensured safer and more efficient navigation for all involved, reducing the risk of mid-air collisions and allowing for clear communication standards. It was a first-of-its-kind solution for managing this level of disaster response, and it worked exceptionally well. In addition, Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) were put in place to limit aircraft movement in specific areas during critical operations like search and rescue missions. These temporary restrictions ensured that rescue helicopters could operate without interference, improving both speed and safety in the missions. Temporary ATC Towers were also deployed at select airports to provide additional airspace management during the intense relief period. “With this volume of aircraft, comes a need for organization and measures to get relief and
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rescue to North Carolinians quickly and safely,” stated the North Carolina Airports Association. These measures helped deconflict the crowded airspace and enabled hundreds of rescue and supply missions to be carried out efficiently and without incident. Moments of Humanity: Stories From the Air Beyond the logistics and the numbers, what truly defined the air rescue efforts were the countless moments of humanity—small acts of kindness that had a big impact on the lives of those affected by the storm. The skies were not just filled with helicopters and planes; they were filled with the hopes of those who were rescued and the determination of those who answered the call for help. One of the most touching stories involved a moment that began at the Jackson County Airport. Todd Baucom, a volunteer, recalled how Crystal Cochran, a central figure in the relief efforts, grabbed his arm and insisted he take a special set of packages. Someone had put together clear plastic sealable bags, each containing a fleece blanket, coloring book, crayons, pencils, activity book, and a small stuffed animal or toy car. When Todd offered to take just a few, Crystal told him, "No, you are taking ALL of them." Crystal’s determination was driven by more than just logistics—it was as if she had a sense that those packages would be needed. Todd later found himself in Yancey County, delivering supplies, when he met a young mother collecting items for her family. When she mentioned her children, Todd offered her the special packages he had brought. She had a three-year-old girl and a five-year- old boy, and Todd handed her two packages. He then noticed one package remaining in his hand, and the mother asked if she could take it for her sister’s daughter. Through tears, Todd handed it to her, knowing that those small gifts, gathered in the chaos of relief efforts, had found their way to exactly where they were needed. "God knew that young lady would be there that Saturday afternoon at that time," Todd said. It was moments like these that exemplified the deep compassion and connection shared by everyone involved. For Crystal Cochran, every single mission out of Jackson County Airport was personal. She was determined that no one in her community would go without help. “I’m not gonna let somebody around me suffer when there’s something I know I can do about it,” she said. Her refusal to give up, even in the face of exhaustion, inspired those around her to keep going. Eric Robinson, co-founder of Operation Helo, spoke about the emotional toll the missions took on the pilots and volunteers. “We know we saved lives. We can overcome the emotional toll because we know we did good.” It was this belief—that their work was making a real difference—that kept everyone going, even when the challenges seemed insurmountable. These stories of humanity were the true heart of the response. Volunteers worked long hours without rest, fueled by the gratitude of the people they were helping. Pilots flew into dangerous conditions, pushing their limits to bring supplies and hope to isolated communities. In every box of supplies dropped, in every person airlifted to safety, there was a story of resilience and courage—a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of disaster. The Role of Social Media and Community Engagement Social media played an indispensable role in the response to Hurricane Helene. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram became critical tools for recruiting pilots, organizing volunteers, and raising funds for both Operation Helo
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and Operation Airdrop. As each donation spot—from Statesville Airport to Wilmington—was announced, people responded immediately, bringing in massive amounts of donations. The ability to share needs in real-time meant that communities could rapidly mobilize to provide food, water, medical supplies, and more to those in desperate need. Eric Robinson remarked, "Not just the community but the entire country was invested in this mission due to social media." The speed and efficiency of these platforms inspired a nationwide response, uniting people and resources to provide much-needed relief. However, social media was also a double-edged sword. Alongside the incredible outpouring of support, misinformation about the response efforts spread widely, causing confusion and even hostility. Chris Arndt, who had boots on the ground and in the air, addressed this issue directly: "In the last few days, a small few of social media influencers have promoted inaccurate negativities surrounding the public and private response to Hurricane Helene's devastation in western NC. It's disappointing to see such a false narrative being portrayed on what should be called a tremendous effort by so many to negate human suffering. What I've seen is that everyone put the full measure of their efforts into helping their fellow citizens... it's not a matter of one side covering down for the shortcomings of the other side, it's that everyone put their full effort into helping as much as we could, as quick as we could." One of the most damaging aspects of the misinformation surrounded FEMA's role in the disaster response. False claims that FEMA was not providing support or was mishandling operations led to widespread distrust, and in some cases, even threats against FEMA personnel. These threats became so severe that certain FEMA operations had to be temporarily halted for the safety of their staff. Chris Arndt clarified that FEMA's role was never to take over local efforts, but rather to provide funding, material resources, and national coordination to assist state and local agencies. "FEMA provides direct funding during a declared 'state of emergency,' access to material support such as field hospitals, food and water, communications equipment, and national coordination to fill out any requirements by agencies across the country," Arndt explained. He highlighted that most of the work on the ground was done by local first responders, while FEMA worked behind the scenes to support them and ensure resources reached where they were needed. Lessons Learned and Future Implications The success of these efforts offered valuable lessons for the future of disaster response. Eric Robinson emphasized, "We were able to reinvent and revolutionize disaster relief through technology, through our resources, and through sheer determination from the community." The combination of advanced communication tools, grassroots organization, and quick, decisive action set a new standard for how communities can respond to disasters. A significant takeaway was the effective partnership between civilian and government forces. Each side filled in where the other needed support, without placing blame or seeking credit. This collaboration showed the potential for different sectors to work in harmony during a crisis, and how crucial that unity is for saving lives and providing timely aid. The mission of Operation Helo, Operation Airdrop, and the many volunteers involved did not end when the storm cleared. Their ongoing effort to provide support and bring hope to affected areas continues to be an inspiring testament to resilience and community strength. The lessons learned from Hurricane Helene will undoubtedly influence future disaster response efforts, making them more effective, more inclusive, and more community-driven.
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As the floodwaters surged during Hurricane Helene, Sof Smith, known as the “Pig Boss” on Warren Wilson College's Farm Crew, found herself in a dire situation. She had helped move the pigs to higher paddocks before the storm, hoping they'd be safe. But as she fed them, she noticed that the lower fields were already submerged. Soon after, she realized that the floodwaters had crept across the middle fields—where several six-week-old piglets and their mothers had been moved the previous day. The situation was escalating faster than anyone anticipated. The Pig Boss of Warren Wilson College
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67 “We had no idea it was going to get that bad.” She quickly recognized the need to act—if the pigs weren't moved immediately, they would drown. Integrating these pigs, who had never been together before, meant risking fights among them, but the priority was survival. Sof, alongside two other students, began getting the piglets and their mothers into their shelters. “Just within those same minutes, I see it rising, and it’s rising so fast,” Sof said. With rain pouring and winds howling, the team used tractors to elevate and move the piglet houses to higher ground. But the waters kept coming. It wasn’t long before older pigs, known as finishers, began swimming towards their paddock. Seeing those pigs swim over the fence lines drove home the urgency of the crisis. The students sprang into action, helping the swimming finishers reach solid ground. They worked tirelessly, guiding all the pigs they could find to the highest field available. When they spotted a pig struggling in the middle fields, which were now fully underwater, Sof and her team waded and then swam to rescue it. Chest-deep in water, they pulled the pig to safety. On their way back, one of the students even managed to scoop up a few rats stranded in a tree, tucking them into her sweatshirt for a small, unlikely rescue. Despite their efforts, many pigs were still unaccounted for, roaming freely. Sof knew the risk of heading back out was too great. She made the difficult call to Farm Manager Blair Thompson to inform him that some pigs might not make it. But before the conversation could finish, the call dropped—the storm's chaos severing their connection. “It was awful,” Sof said. Sof watched as the waters threatened the upper field, where they had just moved the pigs. Realizing they had only minutes before that area would flood too, the team relocated the animals again, this time to the upper pig house in the farm core. It was their last refuge. With no other options left, Sof and her crew began building a makeshift dam from anything they could find—gravel, mineral bags—to try to hold back the water. They also rescued the lambs and younger pigs, whose fields were starting to flood as well. Thankfully, the upper house held. Sof and her team had managed to save many of the pigs and lambs. “Everything since that first day has just been trying to find pigs, bringing them back to the Farm,” Sof said. And they did find them—pigs that had escaped the floodwaters were discovered miles away, some even forming unexpected alliances with the cattle herd. The Farm Crew students continued to locate and corral them, bringing most of them back
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home. Only 13 pigs out of the original 130 remained missing. “I definitely thought that they were all gone,” Sof admitted. “But we’re recovering them day by day—new ones popping up, finding survivors. That has been the most inspiring part. I’m like, okay, there’s more out there, they’re still alive! Keeping hope.” In a bright spot after the storm, one of their sows, Kourtney, gave birth to 11 piglets just days later. “We’re monitoring her hour by hour, but she’s doing a great job—she’s a first-time mom!” Sof said, her voice filled with pride. When asked what drove her to keep fighting for the pigs, even when the odds seemed impossible, Sof reflected, “Being in a leadership role and wanting to do a good job. And, obviously, the pigs need us. I’ve been holding onto that—knowing that I am needed.” Sof appreciates the flexibility of learning on a farm that’s also an educational institution. Mistakes are part of the process, she noted: “That’s how you learn how to do something right—by learning what not to do.” The storm had tested the Farm Crew, but it had also brought them closer, building trust as they made decisions under pressure, adapted, and tackled each problem together. “The crew is amazing,” Sof said. “Everyone carries so much weight on their backs and is ready to go all the time. It’s great to be a part of that.” Photography courtesy of Warren Williams College
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Visit Our New Site! To SUBSCRIBE, send a check for $32 to: Foothills Digest 3838 Cleary Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644 Name: Address: Phone: Or, we accept credit cards. Card Number: Expiration: CVV Code: Or Scan This Code foothills Digest www.foothillsdigest.com Be sure to check out our new website. You can read all our back issues, find out more about the places and products we feature, and order subscriptions, t-shirts and more! You can also learn more about our advertisers, and about advertising with us. We publish four magazines a year, but we publish articles online regularly, so if you miss us between issues, the website will be the cure to your blues!
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71 In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the picturesque mountains of western North Carolina turned into a scene of devastation. Torrential rains led to widespread flooding and landslides, cutting off remote communities from the rest of the state. Roads were blocked, power lines were down, and families found themselves stranded with dwindling supplies. But out of the chaos emerged a team of unsung heroes—the Mountain Mule Packers from Mount Ulla, North Carolina, led by Michael and Michelle Toberer. The Toberers, owners of the Mountain Mule Packer Ranch, had moved to North Carolina from California, where Michael had spent years as a professional mule packer, working with both civilians and military groups. Their skills and experience were suddenly in high demand as Hurricane Helene left many mountain communities inaccessible by vehicles. Michael, driven by a deep desire to help, immediately loaded up their beloved pack mules with food, water, and medical supplies and set out for the affected areas. The Mountain Mule Packers set up their first staging area in Montreat, from where they ventured into towns like Black Mountain—places otherwise impossible to reach. The mules, known for their steady footing, expertly navigated washed- out trails and treacherous, debris-strewn terrain that had swallowed up conventional roads. Michael Toberer and his team of ten mules, along with a draft cross, became the lifeline for those cut off from essential services.
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The people of these mountain towns were in dire need, and the relief brought by the Mountain Mule Packers was more than just physical. It was emotional too. One family, desperately needing insulin, was overjoyed when Michael and his mules arrived with not only the life-saving medicine but also ice to keep it cool. An 85-year-old woman, isolated in her home for a week, was thrilled to see the mule team arrive at her doorstep. Each interaction highlighted the importance of their work, and how, one load at a time, they were delivering hope to people who felt forgotten. Michele Toberer worked tirelessly behind the scenes, organizing donations and logistics, ensuring supplies kept coming in. She turned to social media to reach out for help, and the response was overwhelming. Donations poured in—food, pet supplies, even stacks of Bibles, each with a personal note written by Michele's daughter. People rallied behind the mission of Mountain Mule Packers, creating a beautiful testament to community spirit. "Every day, there's something that happens that's just beautiful," Michele shared, her voice full of emotion. "It's not just about the supplies. It's about showing people that goodness and unity still exist. This has brought people together in a way that makes you believe in humanity again." Their dedication went beyond just delivering supplies. They also coordinated with other volunteer groups like the Cajun Navy, who were also bringing aid into these hard-hit areas. Together, they created a network of support—working across land, air, and through mountain trails to ensure that no one was left behind. Photo by Mike Talyad/Jungle Branch
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For Michael, who had trained military personnel in packing mules, this was the kind of mission he was uniquely equipped for—and he didn’t hesitate to put those skills to use. The mules were ideal for the job. Unlike horses, which can struggle on unstable ground, mules have a remarkable ability to stay surefooted on rough terrain. Michael led them up steep paths, crossing broken roads and climbing trails that had become slippery with mud. Their persistence allowed them to deliver essentials like food, water, diapers, and other much-needed supplies to isolated families. As they moved from one community to another, they also camped along the way, ensuring that their work could continue day after day, regardless of how tough the conditions were. For Michele, Michael, and the rest of the Mountain Mule Packer Ranch, the experience of helping those affected by Hurricane Helene was life-changing. It demonstrated how traditional skills and a determined spirit could bring hope to those in need, even in the most challenging of circumstances. Their story reminds us that sometimes the simplest solutions—a pack of mules and a willingness to help—can be the most powerful of all. The Mountain Mule Packers proved that, even in the face of modern disasters, there is still a place for the timeless resilience of people and animals working together. Their efforts will be remembered as a testament to the power of community, resourcefulness, and the enduring spirit of the mountains they call home.
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74 In times of disaster, it's often the quiet acts of compassion that shine the brightest. The story of the Mountain Mule Packers serves as a beautiful reminder that even when the world feels broken, there are always people willing to step up, bringing not just supplies, but also comfort, hope, and humanity. It's these small yet powerful acts of kindness that mend what has been shattered. The sight of mules carrying aid up the mountain trails is a picture of strength, resilience, and the beauty of connection—between people, animals, and communities. In a world that can sometimes seem disconnected, the Mountain Mule Packers showed that unity and neighborly love are still very much alive. They are a reminder that, even when times are tough, there's an enduring spirit in the mountains that will always rise to meet any challenge. As the mountains heal and the paths become less treacherous, the legacy of those who helped, like Michael, Michele, and their mules, will linger. Their work was not just about delivering goods; it was about delivering hope. And as long as there are people like them, ready to answer the call to help, we can find comfort in knowing that, no matter how dark the times, light will always find its way back to the mountains—one step, one mule, one person at a time. Photo by Mike Talyad/Jungle Branch
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75 Ms. Jo Jane, 104, was living on a mountaintop with her son when the Cajun Navy 2016 arrived, over two weeks after the flood. They had been stranded without power or water. She asked the volunteers who sent them, and they said God did. She sighed, asking why God hadn’t taken her home yet. Her words moved them deeply. When they returned with a generator, she said her prayers had been answered, showing how the Cajun Navy brought not just supplies, but also hope. After Hurricane Helene, the Cajun Navy 2016—a grassroots group driven by compassion—helped western North Carolina. What started during Hurricane Katrina has grown into a resilient network of volunteers. Cajun Navy 2016, founded in the 2016 Louisiana floods, became highly organized in rescue and relief. When Helene hit, they launched search and rescue missions, delivered supplies, and helped those in remote areas. From Black Mountain to Asheville, they used drones, helicopters, and pack mules to reach devastated areas. As winter approached, they provided blankets and coats to those still without power. Brian Trascher, Vice President, emphasized their focus on long-term aid, not just immediate relief. Cajun Navy 2016 has built a reputation for integrity, using donations to meet urgent needs. Their volunteers, many who have faced disasters themselves, worked tirelessly, delivering warmth and essentials to isolated families. Through Hurricane Helene's devastation, the Cajun Navy’s resilience shined. Collier, a chaplain, called it the worst storm he'd witnessed, yet he found grace amid hardship. The Cajun Navy’s journey, starting in Katrina and continuing through Harvey and now Helene, shows ordinary people doing extraordinary acts, fueled by compassion. Their work is a reminder of community strength and the power of kindness in difficult times. As western North Carolina recovers, the Cajun Navy 2016 leaves an enduring message of unity and readiness to help, inspiring others to stand by their neighbors when it matters most. The Cajun Navy 2016: Heroes in the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene
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Feeding the Spirit: Stories of Community After the Storm In the wake of Hurricane Helene, which devastated large parts of western North Carolina, the community response was nothing short of heroic. Local and national organizations sprang into action to help those in need, providing food, water, shelter, and critical services to assist in recovery efforts. Below, we highlight some of the incredible organizations and individuals that worked tirelessly to support communities during this time of need. Community Resource Coordination and Immediate Relief: Bapti sts On Mission were among the first on the ground, providing essential relief services such as food, water, and shelter to impacted communities. Their volunteers worked tirelessly alongside other organizations to ensure no one was left behind. The Salvation Army provided crucial support in the form of emergency shelters, meals, and emotional care. They played an important role in meeting the immediate needs of those affected by Hurricane Helene. The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina also contributed significantly, raising funds to support various local relief initiatives. Their efforts ensured that smaller organizations had the resources needed to provide assistance. North Carolina Community Foundation worked in coordination with community partners to mobilize resources and provide grants to organizations supporting hurricane relief. Their funding was instrumental in sustaining the long-term recovery efforts. United Way chapters across all affected counties played a crucial role in connecting residents to resources through their 2-1-1 hotline. They also helped coordinate both immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts, working closely with local partners to ensure comprehensive support for the community. American Red Cross provided emergency shelter, food, and health services to those affected by Hurricane Helene. Their shelters served as safe havens for displaced residents, and their health services included first aid and emotional support to help individuals deal with the trauma of the storm. NC Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NC VOAD) played a key role in coordinating volunteer efforts and donations through their network of partners. They helped ensure that resources were effectively distributed and that volunteer efforts were safe and impactful. Hearts With Hands, a local organization in Swannanoa, operated shelters and provided essential supplies, despite having to evacuate their own warehouse due to flood damage. They continued to support the community by coordinating supply distribution and working with local partners to ensure that everyone had access to necessities during the crisis. Photo by Omer Fichman
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Food and Essential Supplies Distribution: World Central Kitchen provided vital support by setting up community kitchens and distributing hot meals to those impacted by the storm. Their quick response and dedication ensured that many affected residents had access to nutritious meals during a time of crisis. Manna FoodBank played an indispensable role in the recovery efforts, distributing food, water, and other essential supplies at the Asheville Farmers Market. They coordinated with other local organizations to ensure that food reached those who needed it most, focusing on vulnerable populations like the elderly and those without transportation. Manna FoodBank also organized volunteer drives to keep up with the high demand for food assistance, providing thousands of meals to those impacted by Hurricane Helene. Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC also stepped up to provide essential food and supplies to those affected by Hurricane Helene. Their coordination with local food banks and community organizations ensured that food reached families in need throughout the region. By working closely with partner agencies, Second Harvest played a crucial role in addressing food insecurity during and after the crisis. Cranford Brothers Barbecue (seen above) jumped into action to help feed the many people who came to help during the crisis. They decided to close down lunches at their restaurant so that they could make thousands of meals for these folks every day. Breakfasts were handled by their partner company, Granny's Kitchen. The meals are pictured, highlighting their dedication to supporting the community during this challenging time. Foothills Food Hub, based out of McDowell County, collaborated closely with emergency teams to provide food and water to affected residents, ensuring no one went hungry. The organization worked tirelessly to coordinate donations and distribution efforts, partnering with local farmers and food suppliers to keep their shelves stocked. Their commitment to making healthy food accessible was vital in helping families get back on their feet after the storm. Maynard Electric Company, LLC used their facilities to store and organize donations, helping to distribute incoming supplies to affected areas. Their efforts ensured that resources were efficiently managed and reached those in need. 12 Baskets Cafe (Asheville Poverty Initiative) provided hot meals to those impacted by the storm, creating a sense of community and comfort during a difficult time. Kickbackavl contributed to community efforts, focusing on providing meals and other necessities to those impacted. Hands on Carolina, an initiative of the Affordable Senior Housing Foundation, has been instrumental in providing long- term support to those impacted by Hurricane Helene. They have continued to store and deliver vital supplies to affected areas long after national attention has faded, ensuring that residents still struggling to recover are not forgotten. Their tireless efforts exemplify the importance of sustained, community-driven aid.
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78 Financial and Housing Support: Eblen Charities provided critical support to those affected by Hurricane Helene by offering financial assistance, housing support, and essential supplies. Their efforts were instrumental in helping families cope with the immediate aftermath of the storm, as well as providing long-term support for those working to rebuild their lives. Eblen Charities worked closely with local agencies to ensure that vulnerable populations, including those with medical needs, received the care and resources they needed during this challenging time. The Community Housing Coalition of Madison County assisted in funding emergency home repairs, helping families restore their homes so they could begin the long journey back to normalcy. They provided materials and coordinated volunteer labor to ensure that those most in need had safe and secure housing. WNC Livestock Center, based in Canton, worked to help farmers and animals, a group that was severely impacted by the flooding. Their efforts ensured that livestock received necessary care and that farmers had access to crucial resources needed for recovery. NC State Extension also provided crucial aid, supplying hot meals to emergency responders and allocating resources like fuel and animal feed to affected areas. Their coordination with local farmers helped maintain the agricultural community's resilience in the face of widespread damage. Photo courtesy Brother Wolf Animal Rescue Animal Welfare: Brother Wolf Animal Rescue and Asheville Humane Society were quick to act, placing displaced animals in foster homes and raising funds to support their ongoing care needs. Brother Wolf placed displaced animals in foster care, while Asheville Humane Society set up pet food distribution sites in coordination with Manna FoodBank, ensuring pets were fed and cared for.
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79 Volunteer Mobilization: All Hands and Hearts, Emerge Ministries, and Hands On Asheville-Buncombe provided much-needed volunteer support, helping to clear debris, distribute meals, and assist in the cleanup process. Their volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure that affected communities received the help they needed, from physical labor to emotional support. All Hands and Hearts provided volunteer-driven response efforts that helped clean up and rebuild homes in flood-damaged areas. Their dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly to restore homes and bring comfort back to families in need. Emerge Ministries, based in Pink Hill, NC, helped organize volunteers and distribute supplies to those affected by the hurricane. Their faith-based approach brought both physical aid and emotional comfort to communities in crisis. Photograph by Omer Fichman Search, Rescue, and Medical Support: Samaritan' s Purse was a familiar sight, with their volunteers in orange shirts, sometimes called the "orange wave," working extensively throughout neighborhoods, clearing debris, and helping families rebuild. Project HOPE was instrumental in addressing health-related challenges after Hurricane Helene. Their team worked in Asheville and surrounding counties to distribute hygiene products, clean drinking water, and medical supplies to healthcare facilities and shelters. They also helped coordinate water management for shelters and delivered bulk containers of water to ensure an adequate supply for those who had none. Project HOPE also provided mental health support to affected residents, recognizing the emotional toll of the disaster on individuals and families. Carolina Emergency Response Team, Operation Helo, and Operation Air Drop worked diligently to coordinate air transport for supplies to areas unreachable by road due to flooding. They collaborated with pilots to ensure food, water, and medical supplies were delivered where they were most needed. After the need for air rescues and drops subsided, Operation Helo and Operation Air Drop changed their focus to providing campers for people who had lost their homes. Cajun Navy 2016 provided search and rescue operations, helping residents trapped by floodwaters. Their expertise in navigating flooded areas was crucial in saving lives and bringing people to safety.
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80 Cultural Support: Musicians Mission of Mercy offered aid throughout the affected regions, leveraging their community connections to bring relief to those hit hardest by the storm. The Alchemy Artist Collective, based in Catawba County, put on "An Evening of Alchemy" and donated proceeds, along with the proceeds of their new annual magazine, to arts programs impacted by the flood, helping support the creative community during the recovery process. Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts supported cultural recovery and provided local aid, ensuring that the community's cultural heritage was preserved even amidst the chaos. Concert for the Carolinas raised over $24 million to support recovery efforts, and the album "Cardinals at the Window," with over 130 songs, was released to support arts programs impacted by the storm. Other Support Efforts: Water Step and Mountain Mule Packer Rescue helped ensure safe drinking water and supplies reached remote areas that were otherwise inaccessible. Wine to Water quickly mobilized to provide food, water, and supplies across Watauga, Avery, and Asheville counties. Their efforts were essential in keeping communities nourished during the crisis. Haywood Christian Ministry distributed food and other essentials, ensuring vulnerable families received support during this time of need. Diaper Bank: Babies Need Bottoms stepped up, distributing diapers, wipes, and baby supplies to affected families. Their efforts were crucial in providing comfort and stability to families with infants and young children during such a challenging time. One Love Asheville and Davis Country Store & Cafe both provided meals to impacted communities, with the latter serving as a central hub for resources in Fort Mill. Lansing Volunteer Fire Department was on the front lines, assisting in emergency response efforts and helping to ensure the safety of residents during the storm. Wilmington Relief coordinated donations and provided critical supplies in Jackson County, ensuring that even the most remote areas received the support they needed. ARG Rigging & Rescue, Inc. assisted with rescue and supply transport, using their specialized skills to help reach areas cut off by flooding. Jimmy & Jean’s Family Entertainment and Arcade played a significant role in the Ashe County community, stepping up from day one to secure and distribute supplies, as well as organizing efforts to get people the help they needed. Hurricane Helene Airlift Relief was also instrumental in
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81 Visit the Sun Lodge Sun Lodge in Maple Springs! Greg: 828.291.6099 Linda: 828.310.4688 Vrbo # 1588537 Vrbo # 1588537 airbnb #50772071 airbnb #50772071 the early days of the disaster, coordinating airlifts to bring in much-needed supplies and providing logistical support for the recovery efforts. The NC State Extension and Upper Mountain Research Station in Laurel Springs provided hot meals to emergency responders, ensuring that those on the front lines were well-fed and cared for as they worked long hours to assist the community. We've tried our best to highlight all the organizations who helped, but the truth is that there were so many individuals, groups, and organizations who stepped up that it would be nearly impossible to list them all. The number of people who contributed in countless ways, both big and small, is a testament to the spirit of this community. There doesn't exist a comprehensive list of every organization that provided assistance, and we are quite certain that we may have missed mentioning some. However, this certainly doesn't mean that their contributions were any less important or impactful. Every single effort, no matter how large or small, played a vital role in helping the community recover and rebuild. If you, as the reader, know of other organizations or individuals who helped, we encourage you to write to me at editor@foothillsdigest.com. I will make sure to include the names of those you tell me about in the online version of this article, so we can properly honor everyone who helped during this challenging time. The collective efforts of these organizations and many others underscore the power of community in the face of disaster. The incredible acts of kindness, bravery, and resilience shown by so many people during and after Hurricane Helene cannot be overstated. From neighbors checking on one another to volunteers giving their time and energy, each contribution helped make the response more effective and meaningful. The response to Hurricane Helene highlighted the resilience of the people of western North Carolina and demonstrated how, when neighbors come together, they can overcome even the most daunting challenges. If you’d like to support the ongoing recovery efforts, many of these organizations are still in need of volunteers and donations to help affected communities rebuild and heal. To every person and organization who has helped in this time of extreme need, Foothills Digest thanks you, as does the larger western North Carolina community. It means a lot to all of us that in our time of need, we were not alone. Give a Gift That Keeps Giving • Jewelry & Watch Repair • Custom Design & Engraving • Ear Piercing • Custom Fingerprint & Sentimental • Engraving danasfinejewelryinc.com | 108 North Main Avenue | Newton | (828)466-1999 27 Years STRONG Free Gift Wrapping! W e offer laya W ay Check out our Facebook Specials Shop Local
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The aftermath of Hurricane Helene left behind devastation that tested the resilience of western North Carolina, but it also brought forth incredible acts of courage and dedication from those working tirelessly to restore power to thousands of homes. The line technicians—often unsung heroes—worked around the clock, putting themselves in danger to bring light back to communities. This tribute is to them and, in particular, the men and women of Blue Ridge Energy and their dedicated partners. Linemen Across the Region: An Unwavering Commitment Across the region, linemen from numerous energy cooperatives and power companies rallied to repair broken lines, replace poles, and restore electricity. When over 1.5 million homes and businesses across North and South Carolina were left without power due to catastrophic flooding, washed-out roads, and fallen trees, these line technicians worked long hours under hazardous conditions—often facing washed-away roads, unstable terrain, and other unpredictable challenges. The community watched as linemen ventured into inaccessible areas using everything from trucks to helicopters, proving time and again that the people who keep the lights on are some of the toughest and most dedicated among us. The challenges these linemen faced were extraordinary. In some locations, entire stretches of road had been washed away, leaving neighborhoods isolated and requiring creative solutions to access power lines. Crews worked with heavy equipment, sometimes clearing their own paths to reach broken infrastructure, and they employed helicopters and drones to assess the damage where vehicles simply could not reach. Their dedication ensured that even the most remote areas were not forgotten, and every community, no matter how small or inaccessible, received the attention it needed. Blue Ridge Energy Blue Ridge Energy, a cornerstone of this effort, faced unprecedented challenges when Hurricane Helene struck. At the height of the storm, 95% of their service area was affected, leaving over 70,000 members without power—an enormous number for a cooperative of this size. Despite this daunting task, the linemen, alongside tree and grading contractors, began an immediate response to rebuild and restore power infrastructure, often under harrowing conditions. Most of the cooperative’s electric grid was affected by the storm. Roads were washed out, substations were flooded, and hundreds of power poles were broken. Yet, Blue Ridge Energy crews, with the support of other line crews from across North Carolina, Tennessee, Virgina, Maryland, Pennsylvania and other states stayed the course. Their determination and grit were instrumental in restoring power as quickly and safely as possible, despite the vast scale of destruction.
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Rebuilding Communities, One Line at a Time Blue Ridge Energy did more than restore power—they rebuilt parts of their electric grid that were completely destroyed. Crews were working in their districts in Watauga, Caldwell, Ashe, Alleghany, and beyond, often constructing makeshift roads to reach the most affected locations. More than 500 line workers, including those from partner cooperatives, worked side by side in a true demonstration of unity and determination to ensure that no community was left in the dark. The effort was not only physically demanding but also logistically complex, with teams responsible for replacing poles, cutting away fallen trees, and re-energizing substations and tap lines. Blue Ridge Energy's Director of Public Relations, Renee Walker, noted how crews were rebuilding entire sections of the power grid washed away by mudslides or destroyed by flooding, all while ensuring public safety remained paramount. Walker emphasized that the work required precise coordination and immense teamwork, as each piece of infrastructure needed to be assessed, repaired, or completely rebuilt in sequence to restore power efficiently and safely. The line technicians faced not only environmental challenges but also emotional ones. Seeing entire neighborhoods devastated and families struggling to recover weighed heavily on the crews, but it also fueled their determination. They knew their work was more than just restoring power—it was about restoring hope. Each time a neighborhood's lights flickered back on, it symbolized a step toward normalcy and recovery, a reminder that brighter days were ahead. Proactive Safety Measures: Aerial Markers for Aviation Safety In addition to their tireless work restoring power, Blue Ridge Energy has also been proactive in ensuring the safety of the community. About one month before Hurricane Helene hit, they installed large orange aerial markers on power lines. These markers are designed to increase the visibility of power lines for low-flying helicopters and airplanes, particularly medevac helicopters transporting patients in emergency situations. Given the increased volume of helicopter and small plane traffic in western North Carolina over the past month, these proactive safety measures may very well have saved lives and prevented collisions. We are grateful that Blue Ridge Energy prioritized these safety enhancements, showcasing their commitment to protecting both the skies and the community. Western North Carolina had never experienced the level of helicopter and small aircraft activity that followed in the wake of Hurricane Helene. With emergency responders relying heavily on aerial support to transport supplies, provide medical evacuations, and assess damage, the visibility provided by these markers was crucial. The installation of these aerial markers demonstrated Blue Ridge Energy's forward-thinking approach to safety—not only for their line crews but also for the broader community and emergency response teams. A Community Grateful The communities served by Blue Ridge Energy showed their appreciation in countless ways— providing words of encouragement and support to keep the line crews going through the toughest moments. Blue Ridge Energy made a huge effort to feed their crews, arranging meals and ensuring workers had everything they needed, including laundry services. The sense of camaraderie among the line technicians, staff, and communities was palpable, creating bonds that will be remembered long after the power lines were repaired.
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These linemen, through their dedication, reminded us all of the strength in community and the determination to stand up and rebuild, no matter the challenge. Their work was not just about fixing power lines; it was about providing a lifeline to the communities that depend on electricity for warmth, communication, and safety. The sight of their trucks rolling into neighborhoods brought a sense of reassurance during a time of uncertainty. As the lights gradually returned across western North Carolina, it became clear that the region owes an immense debt of gratitude to the linemen who faced the storm head-on. Day after day, they braved hazardous conditions, worked long hours, and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to restoring power. Their efforts were about more than restoring electricity—they were about reigniting a sense of normalcy, security, and hope in the aftermath of the storm. Blue Ridge Energy, their line technicians, and the many others who lent a hand deserve recognition for their incredible contribution to rebuilding after Hurricane Helene. Their dedication ensured that not only were the lights restored, but also the resilience and unity of the community. We honor their bravery and selflessness in making sure that the people of western North Carolina had the power they needed to begin the long journey of recovery. Photographs on this page are courtesy of Blue Ridge Energy.
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By Kia Evans, FEMA Region 3, External Affairs Officer Supporting Hurricane Helene Survivors in Asheville, North Carolina, the Federal Emergency Management Agency – FEMA, Responds with Native Boots on the Ground Meteorologist warned us. We knew it was coming. And the designated name for this hurricane was established. But what we didn’t know is that Hurricane Helene would be one of the biggest and deadliest weather-related events to hit North Carolina since the Flood of 1916. FEMA’s Region 3 Incident Management Assistance Team, a FEMA team that responds to disasters, was one of the first federal assets to arrive at the affected counties. The team, which is based in Philadelphia, was tasked with supporting local and state emergency managers and first response coordinators in the life safety and life-sustaining mission. Arriving in Raleigh, the team left equipped with water, 72 hours’ worth of food, and an extremely limited understanding of conditions. After reaching the initial resource staging location in Hickory, Federal Coordinating Officer Thomas McCool made his directive to the team succinct and clear: “Integrate and make things happen.” Over the course of the first week, the team was immersed in sustaining emergency coordination and integrating thousands of federal assets into an unbelievably complex situation spanning over 20 counties, with many communities only accessible by air. “Events of this magnitude represent the ongoing importance of the IMAT program,” says Charlie Maltbie, Team Lead. “To deploy without notice into uncertain conditions, ready to seamlessly integrate and jointly meet the coordination needs of a devastated community, is why we signed up for this job.” It comes as no secret for those working in emergency management that the determination of overall mission success for any incident management team depends heavily upon collaboration. And for team member Stephen Jaros, serving as the Situational Unit Leader, being part of this disaster recovery effort stirred a deep sense of responsibility and connection within him — this disaster is personal. A North Carolina native who calls the state home, Jaros deployed from Philadelphia and played a crucial part during the start of the mission. Positioned from the onset in Hickory at the staging location alongside the initial assets responding to Hurricane Helene’s destruction, Jaros was responsible for providing critical information and data back to leadership to enhance overall situational understanding of the affected counties.
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87 Working closely with North Carolina Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management (NCEM), Jaros supported their team by improving situational awareness and monitoring the significant events board, pinpointing issues or shortfalls not captured elsewhere. This close collaboration paid dividends, as Jaros addressed gaps, notified NCEM staff, who then worked with state operations to investigate and resolve the concerns while coordinating with counties to eliminate the identified shortfalls. Jaros compiled this information into reports that would ultimately guide operational decision- making at the state level, helping communities to quickly obtain the needed resources and support. And for survivors from Rutherford County, this meant the identified and improved process of organizing and maintaining donations effectively reduced the possibility of warehousing an overwhelming volume of goods. “Over the years, I’ve lived in Charlotte, New Bern, Raleigh, and Oriental,” Jaros said. “And while I haven’t lived in the western part of the state, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the atmosphere and spirit of those mountain communities. There’s something nostalgic about working in the same state that shaped my upbringing. Normally, in disaster response, I approach every mission with empathy and dedication, always striving to help communities recover. But this disaster was different. This time, I wasn’t just responding as a FEMA employee; I was working in places I know, and my family was affected,” Jaros said. “Though most of my family was spared the worst, my parents, who are building a home on Sugar Mountain in Avery County, faced their own set of challenges. At the time of the storm, they were in Charlotte just a week before Helene hit. That timing turned out to be a blessing because, had they been in the mountains, their lives might have been in real danger,” said Jaros. “This disaster has shown me, once again, the strength and resilience of North Carolinians. The recovery process will be long. But seeing firsthand the determination and generosity of people helping each other gives me hope that we will come through this stronger, as we always do,” he said. “I’m grateful to lead the team and for their performance during long hours supporting lifesaving missions in some of the most difficult terrain imaginable, while never losing our core values of serving others with compassion, fairness, integrity, and respect under a collective approach with our state counterparts,” said Maltbie. Members of the FEMA Region 3 Incident Management Assistance Team, pose near a FEMA Mobile Emergency Response Support Vehicle (MERS), stationed in front of the North Carolina Department of Public Safety in Hickory, North Carolina. MERS vehicles provide real-time critical updates to field teams, while supporting overall communication and connectivity.
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Shining a Spotlight on folks that went above and beyond In times of hardship, true heroes rise up—often unexpectedly, and often from right next door. This is a story of those who have made a difference in their communities, not because they sought recognition, but because helping others is simply who they are. The following individuals have been nominated by you, our readers, for their extraordinary contributions during challenging times, and we are honored to share their stories. From organizing grassroots relief efforts to being a constant source of hope and support, these people remind us of the power of community. Crystal Cochran has been a beacon of hope in her community, stepping up when it was needed most. She organized and helped Operation Airdrop bring goods into her county and to the people who needed it, demonstrating her selflessness and dedication that inspired countless others to get involved. Carrie Laws, also known as The Tasty Traveler, opened her food trailer just months before the storm and quickly became a crucial resource for the community. With the grocery store closed, Carrie began offering free, hot meals daily, funded by donations through Venmo and Apple Pay. She delivered over 300 meals each day, with support pouring in from locals, golf courses, and even donors as far away as Maui and Japan. Though she plans to continue for another three weeks, Carrie wishes she could keep going until everything is fixed. Lindsey K. Duch and and Lindsay Lawhon worked tirelessly out of Hickory to gather enormous amounts of supplies and provide critical aid through their efforts with Hands on Carolina. Initially, Duch worked with Operation Helo before transitioning alongside Lawhon into the new organization, which continues to support the community in powerful ways. In Asheville, as the first stores reopened, they were only accepting cash, and the lines were long. Amid this, an unnamed musician began playing for the crowd, lifting spirits during a tense time. People tried to give him tips, but at first, he refused. Eventually, he accepted them, only to turn around and offer the money to anyone short on cash who needed supplies. He continued playing, collecting tips, and giving them away, embodying the spirit of Appalachia—resilient, generous, and rooted in community. Hannah Smithey Peacock has been instrumental in getting the word out about what is needed, collecting those items, and delivering them to those in need. Her tireless efforts have ensured that essential supplies reach the right people, making a significant impact on her community's recovery. Trent Dyar, caretaker at Hermitage Mountain Gardens and Apiary, faced a devastating loss when all but one of his bee colonies were destroyed. Despite this setback, Trent worked tirelessly to help his neighbors and community recover. He assisted agencies in accessing perilous roads, engineered water stations, cleared trees blocking access, and secured generators for those in need. His resilience and selfless dedication have made a significant impact on the community's recovery.
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Visit the B Blue Door Guesthouse lue Door Guesthouse in Hickory! Vrbo # 2641941 airbnb #53261571 Vrbo # 2641941 airbnb #53261571 Greg: 828.291.6099 Linda: 828.310.4688 Scan to book! Scan to book! Anna Farlessyost, in her mid-20s, grew up in Madison County and lived in Barnardsville. She and her roommates were key in getting the mutual aid efforts set up in the area, working alongside her coworkers from Navitat. The work they accomplished in the first few days was nothing short of amazing, helping to establish crucial support systems for those in need. Noah Proudfoot collected and delivered a huge amount of donations, carefully getting them to places that were very much in need. His dedication and commitment to ensuring the right resources reached the right people made a significant difference during the recovery efforts. Addy, just 10 years old, has a successful tie- dye business that takes her all over the NC mountains. When her family learned about the storm, her dad immediately went to help, and Addy knew she wanted to contribute too. She, her brother Finley, and her mom Autumn set to work selling tie-dye to raise money, ultimately raising over $3,000 to support those affected by the storm. Their hard work and dedication are a true testament to the power of family and community. Chadburn Spivey became a contact point for folks living in Sanford, helping gather huge amounts of supplies. Even a month after the storm, he is organizing a tractor trailer load of goods to come this way. Working initially with First Baptist Church, Chadburn continued his efforts even after their donations were completed, demonstrating a tireless commitment to helping those in need. Heather Laughon Richard worked tirelessly to organize and gather supplies for those in need. She has been amazing at finding what people need and getting it to them, making a real difference in the lives of many during these difficult times. These individuals are just a few of the many who have stepped up to help their communities in times of need. Their courage, dedication, and compassion are an inspiration to us all. In sharing their stories, we hope to remind everyone that even in the darkest times, there is light. It comes from people like Crystal, Carrie, Trent, and so many others who remind us of the strength that lies in unity and kindness. Together, we can overcome any challenge and build a brighter future.
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90 Photography Courtesy of National Parks Service The Blue Ridge Parkway is a national treasure—an irreplaceable ribbon of scenic beauty and cultural heritage that winds its way through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Parkway faces its greatest challenge in decades, with widespread destruction across its length, particularly in North Carolina. Yet, even in the face of this devastation, there is hope, resilience, and an immense determination to rebuild. From the thousands of downed trees and dozens of rock and mudslides to the loss of facilities like the Linville Falls Visitor Center, below right, the damage is significant. It’s heartbreaking to see beloved landmarks impacted, and to know that hundreds of miles of trails and numerous structures need extensive repair. But as monumental as the task ahead may be, it’s also an opportunity—a chance for all of us who cherish the Parkway to step forward and help it recover. The core Parkway team, along with support from National Park Service employees from across the country, has already made meaningful progress. Over 200 miles of road have been cleared, and a portion of the Parkway in Virginia is open once again, with new sections in North Carolina beginning to follow. The reopening of a stretch from Bamboo Gap to Beacon Heights is a crucial step towards reconnecting communities and restoring access to this cherished landscape. The Blue Ridge Parkway
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91 While many areas remain closed, this gradual reopening reflects the tireless work being done behind the scenes. Every fallen tree cleared, every rockslide stabilized, and every section reopened is a testament to the commitment of those who care for this special place. Their work is a reminder that recovery is possible—that, despite the setbacks, the Parkway will continue to be a place where people find solace, adventure, and beauty. The impact of Hurricane Helene has been deeply felt, not just in the physical landscape but also in the communities that depend on Parkway visitors. The autumn season, typically bustling with leaf- lookers and travelers, has been unusually quiet this year. But there is hope—hope that, through collective action and support, the Parkway will once again flourish and bring life to the surrounding mountain towns. Now is the time for all of us to invest in the future of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether it’s through donations, or simply spreading the word, every contribution makes a difference. Together, we can ensure that the Parkway not only recovers but thrives, continuing to be a source of joy and inspiration for generations to come. Visit BRPFoundation.org/ hurricanerelief to donate to the needed repairs. We are hopeful because we know the spirit of this region. We know the resilience of the mountains, the people who call them home, and the countless individuals who hold the Parkway in their hearts. With each step forward, we rebuild not just roads and trails, but also the deep connection between people and the land. And as we do, we’re reminded that the Blue Ridge is, and always will be, a place of enduring beauty and hope.
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92 and remained an integral part of the family in retirement. Lois was a devoted grandmother, never missing a chance to cheer on her grandchildren at games or performances. Her husband, James "Jimmy" Souther, shared her dedication to family and community. A skilled mechanic, Jimmy could repair anything and was known for his generosity and reliability. Together, Lois and Jimmy were pillars of Chestnut Hill Baptist Church and active supporters of their neighbors and friends. Daniel Wright, a mason and deacon at Cedar Mountain Baptist Church, was a man of faith and hard work. He spent over six decades with his wife, Evelyn Wright, whose angelic singing brought comfort and inspiration to all who knew her. Together, Daniel and Evelyn were a shining example of love, faith, and commitment. Angela "Angie" Craig, 62, was a retired regional program representative admired for her generosity and dedication to community service. She volunteered tirelessly and was known for her compassion and kindness. Angie and her husband, Don, were enjoying time on their porch when the In the heart of Appalachia, nestled deep within the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains, lie the hollers—secluded valleys that cradle lifetimes of memories, traditions, and kinship. These hollers are more than landscapes; they are the soul of Appalachian culture, embodying resilience, belonging, and love. For generations, families like the Craigs called these hollers home, weaving stories into the soil and fostering connections that spanned lifetimes. One such place was Craigtown, a vibrant community in Fairview, North Carolina. Named for the Craig family, who lived there for over 80 years, Craigtown was more than land—it was a sanctuary and a legacy of hard work, celebration, and togetherness. In Craigtown, birthdays were joyous, children grew up surrounded by love, and neighbors always lent a hand. To the Craigs, their land was a part of their soul. In September 2024, this close-knit community faced a devastating tragedy. When Hurricane Helene swept through, relentless rains triggered a landslide that claimed thirteen lives, including eleven members of the Craig family. The loss was overwhelming, leaving the once lively holler in profound silence. A Family Rooted in Love The victims of the Craigtown landslide were more than names; they were beloved members of their family and community, each with a unique story, talents, and passions that made them unforgettable. Ronald "Ronnie" Craig, 71, was the patriarch of the family and a retired brick mason admired for his craftsmanship, love of the outdoors, and boundless devotion to his family. He spent his days hunting, fishing, and gardening, and was always ready to fix anything that needed repair. Ronnie’s wisdom and love touched the lives of his children and grandchildren. His wife of 49 years, Sandra "Sandy" Craig, was the heart of their home. Known for her warmth and incredible cooking, Sandy’s kitchen was a hub of love and laughter. She worked for decades at the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, dedicating herself to helping others. Sandy’s infectious laughter and unwavering support for her family made her the cornerstone of their lives. Ronnie’s sister, Lois Souther, 69, had a remarkable 45-year career in electronics manufacturing Remembering Remembering Craigtown Craigtown AND THE THIRTEEN AND THE THIRTEEN LIVES LOST THERE DURING LIVES LOST THERE DURING HURRICANE HELENE HURRICANE HELENE
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93 landslide struck. Don survived, but Angie’s loss left a void in the hearts of many. Tony "Bones" Garrison, 54, a battalion chief with the Fairview Fire Department, was a community hero known for his humor, leadership, and steady presence. On the day of the landslide, Tony and his nephew, Robert Brandon Ruppe, 28, rushed into danger to assist others. Their bravery and selflessness cost them their lives but left an indelible legacy of courage and service. Freddie Pack, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, was known for his adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors. An electrician by trade, Freddie enjoyed baseball and treasured the time spent with his wife, Teresa "Terri" Pack. Terri, a pharmacy technician and active church member, had a kind and nurturing nature. Together, they created a home filled with love, faith, and laughter. Their son, Chase Garrell, 28, an auto mechanic with a sharp wit and loyal heart, was beloved for his humor and devotion to family and friends. In addition to the Craig family, another neighbor also lost their life in the landslide, adding to the profound grief of this close- knit community. Each of these individuals contributed immeasurably to their family and community, leaving a legacy of love, resilience, and service that will never be forgotten. A Legacy Etched in the Hills The memory of the Craig family will forever be etched into the hills of Craigtown, a testament to their unyielding spirit and enduring love. Though the land may bear scars, the community remains strong, determined to honor the lives of those lost. In every act of kindness, every shared meal, and every memory spoken aloud, the spirit of Craigtown thrives. For the people of Appalachia, hardship is not the end—it is a call to rebuild, to hold fast to what matters most, and to carry forward the stories of those who came before. In Craigtown, the Craig family’s legacy is not just remembered; it is cherished, celebrated, and woven into the very fabric of the mountains they called home. The hills of Appalachia have always whispered stories of resilience, love, and courage. Now, they carry the Craig family’s story as a solemn hymn, sung in the rustling leaves and echoed in the rushing streams. It is a story that reminds all who hear it of the strength found in unity, the beauty in connection, and the enduring power of love to overcome even the deepest sorrow. T u r t l e I s l a n d P o t t e r y Handmade stoneware pottery in the mountains of NC 828-337-0992 Old Fort, NC turtleislandpottery.com
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94 Photography by David Bergman In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastation, the music community in North Carolina has come together in an incredible show of solidarity and resilience. The story is one of musicians stepping up to help those affected, and the community rallying to support the musicians who lost their instruments, their livelihoods, and even their homes. The response can be seen in two powerful ways: musicians helping those impacted, and initiatives aimed at helping the musicians themselves. Musicians Helping Those Impacted The first and most visible effort has been the numerous benefit concerts and musical events organized to aid those affected by Hurricane Helene. At the forefront is the Concert for the Carolinas, held on October 26, 2024, at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. With a lineup including Luke Combs, Eric Church, Billy Strings, James Taylor, The Avett Brothers, Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban, Bailey Zimmerman, Scotty McCreery, Chase Rice, and Parmalee, the concert drew over 82,000 attendees and raised $24,513,185 for relief efforts. The funds were directed towards multiple charities, including Manna Foodbank, Samaritan's Purse, and others dedicated to helping the impacted communities. Musical heroes Musical heroes
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95 During the concert, organizer Luke Combs of Asheville spoke passionately from the stage: "Twenty- eight days ago, I called my manager and said, 'We have got to do a show. I don’t know how, I don’t know how we’re gonna do it, or where we’re gonna do it, but we’re gonna do it.' My manager’s first call was to the Carolina Panthers. My first call was to Eric Church. The Teppers and the Panthers have been so incredible. They donated the venue for free! They donated the beer you are drinking, the parking, the work, they are paying the tax bill... every single dollar that is made in this building tonight is going straight up those damn mountains to the people that need it the most. And I have never been more proud to walk on a stage than I am right now." Music legend Dolly Parton also contributed to the efforts at the Concert for the Carolinas, donating an additional $1 million to support the relief initiatives. Eric Church, Granite Falls native and headliner at Concert for the Carolinas, announced an initiative called "A Blueprint for the Blue Ridge" that would include building homes for 100 families in Avery County and surrounding areas. Another notable event is Music for the Mountains, featuring Old Crow Medicine Show, Chatham County Line, and BJ Barham from American Aquarium. This benefit concert, held at Raleigh's Red Hat Amphitheater, aimed to support The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, ensuring that funds directly reached those in need. Sturgill Simpson also joined the efforts by hosting a benefit concert at Cary's Koka Booth Amphitheatre, with all proceeds going to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund. Likewise, the App Aid event in Raleigh brought together local artists to raise funds for recovery efforts in Appalachia, with proceeds from ticket sales and bar profits supporting the community. Caleb Caudle, a North Carolina native, left his nationwide tour to return home and support friends and fellow musicians in Asheville. His Dobro player, Carter Giegerich, also stepped up, filling his truck bed with gas cans to assist both friends and strangers. As Carter put it, "The music community here is always taking care of each other after things have gone sideways." This spirit of mutual support was echoed across the region as countless artists contributed to recovery efforts. Supporting Impacted Musicians While musicians rallied to support their communities, many of them faced their own losses. To address this, several initiatives have emerged to support artists who were directly impacted by Hurricane Helene. The Arts AVL Emergency Relief Grant is one such initiative, launched to meet the immediate needs of artists affected by the hurricane. This grant aims to help musicians and other artists recover and continue their work during this challenging time. Similarly, the NC Arts Foundation Disaster Relief Fund is providing financial support to artists in need, with donations from across the country helping musicians get back on their feet. A particularly inspiring initiative is Restring Appalachia, led by American Songcatcher. Supported by over 125 musicians, instrument makers, nonprofits, venues, visual artists, actors, and media outlets, Restring Appalachia aims to provide new instruments to every musician who lost theirs during the hurricane. This effort reflects the deep understanding within the artistic community of how vital instruments are to a musician's livelihood and emotional well-being. The Peel Jam event at The Orange Peel in Asheville and the Symphony of the Mountains Benefit Concert at Paramount Bristol are also raising funds specifically for impacted musicians. These events, along with the broader community efforts, demonstrate the unwavering support for artists who bring so much to the cultural fabric of Western North Carolina. A Story of Resilience The story of Hurricane Helene's aftermath is not just one of loss; it is also one of community, hope, and resilience. Musicians across North Carolina have shown that when disaster strikes, they are ready to use their talents, resources, and connections to help rebuild. At the same time, the community has rallied around its artists, ensuring that those who bring music into our lives are not left behind. It is a testament to the power of art and the strength of the human spirit—a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, we can come together to create something beautiful.
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96 THE AVETT BROTHERS WYATT FLORES TONY TRISCHKA’S EARL JAM BONNIE RAITT THE WAR AND TREATY SAM BUSH THE STEELDRIVERS THE DEAD SOUTH ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL WATCHHOUSE THE LIL SMOKIES BRENT COBB
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97 PLUS MANY MORE AMAZING PERFORMERS! Merlefest.org • 800 -343 -7857 W i l k e s b o r o , N C ALISON BROWN PETER ROWAN DELLA MAE SCYTHIAN TOPHOUSE JOHN MCEUEN & THE CIRCLE BAND THE BAREFOOT MOVEMENT THE WAYBACKS DAMN TALL BUILDINGS EAST NASH GRASS DONNA THE BUFFALO BIG RICHARD JIM LAUDERDALE JOHN R. MILLER KRUGER BROTHERS WOODY PLATT AND THE BLUEGRASS GENTLEMEN
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Cardinals at the Window: A Community's Soundtrack for Healing In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact on Western North Carolina, music has become a beacon of hope for many. Cardinals at the Window, a Bandcamp album featuring 130 songs, is the musical embodiment of resilience, collaboration, and care. The album's creators—musicians from all walks of life—have come together to offer their voices and talents to support the region they hold dear. All proceeds from the album are directed toward relief and recovery efforts, going to grassroots organizations making a real difference on the ground. Current recipients include the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, Mutual Aid Disaster Relief, Rural Organizing and Resilience (via Holler Harm Reduction), and Poder Emma (via Colaborativa la Milpa). The name of the album itself, Cardinals at the Window, reflects an old Appalachian expression symbolizing hope and luck. In this difficult time, that hope is essential as the communities of Western North Carolina work to rebuild not just homes, but also their spirit and sense of place. The album is a reminder that, in the face of overwhelming challenges, the culture and creativity of the people of Appalachia remain vibrant and steadfast. Rusty Sutton, one of the contributors to the album, shares a deeply personal account of his experience during the storm. Born and raised in Candler, a community five miles west of Asheville, Sutton speaks to the power of the rivers that both nourish and threaten the region. His family's decision to leave their home when the waters rose was made with heavy hearts, knowing they had the means to evacuate while others stayed to face the floods. Sutton's story captures the tension between love for his homeland and the pragmatic need to survive: "It was hard to decide whether to stay and help or leave. For us, it became a question of whether we’d actually be of service or just another gaggle of people in line at water distribution centers or gas stations." Now Sutton contributes what he can—his music and his words—to the healing effort. He emphasizes the importance of collective action in the wake of such a disaster, writing, "There won’t be one fix that comes from a single government agency or aid organization. It must be a network of efforts happening, both at once and over a long period of time, to put it all back together." Grayson Haver Currin, another contributor, reminisces about the moments of peace and connection brought by the rain—the same rain that would eventually contribute to the destruction of beloved places. His words capture the paradox of nature in the Appalachians, where water can be both life-giving and life-taking: "Sometimes, of course, even seemingly perfect systems temporarily fail, overrunning our own human designs and desires." Yet, Currin's message remains hopeful, just like the cardinal that symbolizes this effort. He sees the community's response to the tragedy as a testament to the strength and connection that runs through the mountains. Cardinals at the Window represents the best of Appalachia—the music, the love for the land, and the shared commitment to recovery. The album stands as a testament to the resilience of mountain folk and river people, reminding us that even when nature's waters overrun our homes, our communities are built for the aftermath. To support the ongoing recovery efforts, consider purchasing the album on Bandcamp at cardinalsatthewindow.bandcamp.com. Give what you can, and help restore a small piece of a place that so many love dearly. In the words of Rusty Sutton, "Our terrain wasn’t meant to handle this storm, but our community was built for the aftermath."
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COSMETIC, IMPLANT AND COMPREHENSIVE DENTISTRY (828) 328-5581 221 13th Ave Pl NW, Hickory 94% OF PEOPLE AGREE THAT A PERSON'S SMILE IS THE FIRST THING THEY NOTICE.
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River Arts District The River Arts District in Asheville was a vibrant hub for local artists, providing studios, galleries, and a sense of community where creativity flourished. Nestled along the French Broad River, the district was home to countless painters, sculptors, potters, and craftsmen who found inspiration in the collaborative spirit of the area. It was not just a collection of buildings; it was a sanctuary for those who sought to transform their visions into tangible works of art, a place where creativity was nurtured and celebrated. The district offered a unique blend of old industrial spaces repurposed into bustling studios and galleries, creating an environment where the past and present coexisted harmoniously. Artists could often be found working with their doors open, inviting residents and visitors alike to witness their process firsthand. This open, welcoming atmosphere fostered a sense of connection between the creators and the community, making art accessible and alive. The River Arts District was a place where relationships were built, not only between artists themselves but also between the artists and the people who cherished their work. Its importance extended beyond its walls; it was an anchor for Asheville's cultural identity, a place that drew tourists and locals together in appreciation of creativity and innovation. Its loss is a deep blow to the cultural fabric of the region, as it represented not only a place for artistic expression but also a source of inspiration and livelihood for many. The destruction of this beloved district is a profound reminder of what the community has lost, leaving artists and residents alike grieving for a space that was central to Asheville's artistic identity. The impact is felt not just economically, but emotionally, as the River Arts District was a place where dreams were pursued, where the spirit of Asheville came to life in vibrant colors and bold forms. Without it, the city feels a little emptier, the echoes of creativity quieter, as the community grapples with the challenge of rebuilding both its physical and cultural heart. The resilience of Asheville's artists and residents will undoubtedly lead to new beginnings, but the loss of the River Arts District leaves a void that cannot easily be filled. Image Courtesy of River Arts District
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Above, photography by Tim Reaves. Below, photography by Omer Fichman.
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103 Photography by Tim Reaves
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Photography by Scott Mitchener Hurricane Helene hit Morganton, NC, like the force of nature it was—raw, relentless, and transformative. Torrential rain turned rivers into raging beasts, with the Catawba bursting its banks and flooding streets that had never seen so much as a puddle before. Baseball fields flooded. Neighborhoods were underwater, and flash floods forced swift rescues. Roads vanished, mudslides swept through the hills, and crucial bridges were lost to the chaos. Yet, Morganton didn’t crumble—it fought back. With power down and neighborhoods cut off, people came together. Makeshift routes sprang up where roads were gone. Shelters filled, and neighbors opened their doors, offering warmth in the darkness. The town buzzed with chainsaws, hammers, and the heartbeat of resilience. Volunteers cleared debris, distributed supplies, and brought hope—a light that stayed on when everything else flickered out. Local businesses didn’t sit still, either. Cafés dished out free meals, hardware stores donated supplies, and fundraisers popped up. High schoolers joined the effort, clearing debris and showing the grit of Morganton’s future. The town faced devastation but responded with unity and strength—a fierce determination to rebuild and prepare for whatever lies ahead. Morganton knows the storm left a mark, but it’s not about the scars—it’s about the resilience that came after. The community is ready to shape a future that stands firm, no matter what storms come their way. Rising Waters, Rising Morganton Rising Waters, Rising Morganton
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Quartz Mines A Global Technological Lifeline Western North Carolina is home to one of the most vital resources for the global technology industry—high-purity quartz. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, the Spruce Pine Mining District produces a type of quartz so pure that it is essential for creating the silicon wafers used in everything from smartphones to medical devices and solar panels. While the region may not be widely known for its contributions to cutting-edge technology, the quartz mined here plays an indispensable role in the electronics that power our modern world. Powering the World Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth, but not all quartz is created equal. The high-purity quartz found in the Spruce Pine region is world-renowned for its exceptional clarity and low impurity levels. It is this purity that makes it ideal for use in the production of semiconductors, which are the foundation of modern electronics. Semiconductors are made from silicon, and the process starts with quartz. The quartz is mined, processed, and then converted into silicon through a complex and highly controlled procedure. Once purified, the silicon is melted and grown into cylindrical crystals, known as ingots, which are then sliced into thin wafers. These wafers serve as the base for microchips, which are the heart of most modern devices. Nearly every electronic device that relies on silicon—whether it’s a smartphone, a computer, or a solar panel—owes its existence, in part, to the quartz extracted from this small region of North Carolina. The Mining Process Mining quartz in western North Carolina is a delicate and labor-intensive process. Unlike many other forms of mining, where large machines churn through rock and soil, quartz mining requires precision to avoid contaminating the resource. The quartz in the Spruce Pine area is found embedded in pegmatite veins, which also contain other valuable minerals like feldspar and mica. Miners typically use a combination of open-pit and underground mining methods to extract the quartz. Open-pit mining is used when the quartz veins are close to the surface, while underground mining is necessary when the veins run deep into the earth. Once extracted, the quartz is processed to remove impurities, undergoing several stages of refinement before it is ready for use in semiconductor manufacturing. The result is a product that is 99.99% pure, a level of clarity that is essential for high-tech applications. A Global Lifeline for Technology The quartz from western North Carolina is not just important—it's critical. The high-purity quartz mined in Spruce Pine supplies approximately 90% of the world’s semiconductor-grade quartz. This means that the chips inside nearly every smartphone, computer, and advanced medical device can trace their origins back to the mountains of North Carolina.
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107 The Role of Lithium in Modern Technology In addition to quartz, North Carolina is home to another essential resource for modern technology: lithium. This mineral is vital for producing lithium-ion batteries, which power everything from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. Location and Mining North Carolina has been a key player in the global lithium supply chain since the mid-20th century. While production slowed due to international competition, the rising demand for lithium- ion batteries—driven by the surge in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage—has renewed interest in the state’s lithium reserves. Companies are now looking to restart mining operations, positioning North Carolina as an important player in the modern battery industry. Global Importance Lithium-ion batteries are central to the future of clean energy. As industries worldwide transition to greener energy solutions, demand for lithium is expected to increase dramatically. North Carolina’s lithium resources are set to play a crucial role in meeting this global demand, further enhancing the state’s contribution to modern technology, alongside its famed quartz mines. The importance of this resource cannot be overstated. Silicon, made from the quartz extracted here, is the foundation of microchips, which, in turn, are essential for nearly every piece of modern technology. From the automotive industry to communications, from healthcare to renewable energy, these chips are the engines of progress. Without the high-purity quartz from Spruce Pine, entire industries could be brought to a standstill. A Disruption and Recovery In September 2024, the technological lifeline provided by the Spruce Pine mines was abruptly severed by Hurricane Helene. The hurricane, which brought devastating floods to the Appalachian region, caused widespread disruption to the area’s infrastructure, including the roads, bridges, and facilities that support the mining industry. The torrential rains flooded open-pit mines and made it impossible for workers to reach underground operations. Transportation routes, essential for delivering the mined quartz to processing facilities, were also cut off, causing significant delays in the supply chain. The impact of the disruption reverberated far beyond western North Carolina. Semiconductor manufacturers, already facing challenges due to global supply chain issues, were suddenly without their most critical raw material. The shortage of high- purity quartz threatened to delay the production of microchips, creating potential ripple effects across industries that rely on this technology. However, the resilience of the region’s mining industry—and the global community’s reliance on this resource—spurred a swift recovery effort. By mid-October, less than a month after the hurricane’s landfall, the mines were back in full production. Workers had restored operations, cleared floodwaters, and repaired transportation routes. This quick recovery was crucial not only for the local economy but also for the global technology sector, which depends on the uninterrupted flow of high-purity quartz to keep the wheels of progress turning. A Small Region with a Global Impact Western North Carolina’s quartz mines are a prime example of how a seemingly small and remote area can have an outsized impact on the world. The high-purity quartz mined here is essential to the production of silicon, which, in turn, is vital for semiconductors that power everything from the devices in our pockets to the satellites orbiting Earth. While natural disasters like Hurricane Helene may cause temporary disruptions, the resilience of the region ensures that this critical resource will continue to flow, keeping the global technology industry moving forward.
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The Christmas tree industry in Western North Carolina, especially in counties like Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, and Watauga, faced significant challenges this year due to Hurricane Helene. The storm struck in September 2024, bringing heavy rains, high winds, and mudslides that caused notable damage to tree farms. These counties, known for producing high-quality Fraser firs, play an essential role in the nation’s holiday tree supply, and the impact has been keenly felt throughout the region. The hurricane damaged roads and bridges, complicating access to many tree farms and potentially slowing down this year’s distribution. While some farms lost trees to landslides and high winds, local farmers are determined to keep up with the holiday demand. Despite the setbacks, the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association is optimistic that there will be enough trees to meet customer needs, although the recovery has been challenging. One bright spot amid the difficulties is Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm in Newland, which was selected to provide this year’s official White House Christmas tree. Farm owner Sam Cartner expressed that this honor is a source of hope and pride for the community, symbolizing resilience in the face of adversity. Local farmers and officials are urging people to support the Christmas tree industry by choosing real Fraser firs from Western North Carolina this year. Each tree sale directly helps these communities recover and ensures the future of the state’s proud Christmas tree tradition. If you’re nearby, consider visiting Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, or Watauga counties to purchase directly from a farm. For those further afield, look for North Carolina-grown Fraser firs at your local retailer. Supporting this region’s trees not only brings a beautiful symbol of the holidays into your home but also contributes to the recovery and sustainability of a deeply rooted industry. CHRISTMAS TREES of Western North Carolina Holiday Every Day Art holidayeverydayart@gmail.com Timeless, artful ornaments for holidays and every day!
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It's starting to get a bit crazy outside, isn't it! You know what I'm noticing though? Even more than high water pics, bad bridges, swift water videos and power outages? How our people are coming together. Offering help. Offering services. Offering pasture lands for livestock and horses. Offering chainsaws and woodchippers for clean up. Offering fellowship halls with drinks in the fridge for shelter from the storm. Offering vegetables from gardens to those that might need food. Offering to meet basic needs. Food. Water. Shelter. Friendship. Love. Standing together. Standing firm. When there's trouble, often times politics don't really matter. Religion or lack there of doesn't really matter. Human decency is what matters. Kindness. Gentleness. Togetherness. Taking care of our neighbors and our friends. That's what matters. Nothing else. Offering what we've got to offer. That's what makes us better. Stay safe, friends. Check on your neighbors. Help where you can. Mountain Time on Main Street September 26, 2024 Cynthia Rand September 29, 2024 first-hand accounts Social media provided a unique view of the tragedy that unfolded after Hurricane Helene ravaged western North Carolina. We were able to watch the disaster unfolding in real time, and use social media as a life-line to our friends and family. These accounts stood out to the team at Foothills Digest. Just got a disaster roaming signal on my cell phone a couple of hours ago and had to go to the car to charge it. Will post more tomorrow, but I wanted to let you know that my sister and I are okay. She came to stay with me a few days ago because she didn't need to be in her mobile home on a hill under a transformer by the Swannanoa River during Helene's winds and flooding. We are alive and kicking, and so are my relatives here on Riceville Rd. No power, internet, or drinkable/usable water from the City of Asheville, but we collected drinking water before the storm and are flushing with water from outside in the stream/creek/river. I've survived a lot of bad stuff in my 60 years: Hurricane Hugo, the massive Kentucky flood two years ago by the Troublesome in Hindman, and now this storm and flood caused by Hurricane Helene. I've also experienced a lot of good things—like seeing all my kids grow up and go out into the bigger world doing amazing things, watching my brother overcome challenges in his silent world and love his job, and having my sister not just as a sister but also as a best friend. Seeing my niece overcome impossible obstacles and keep pushing for her goals and dreams has been incredible. I could Jonathan A. Neary September 29, 2024 make a list of a thousand good things I've experienced or witnessed, and I am so grateful. I'm deeply grateful for friends who send love and prayers, and I'll try to reply to all your texts tomorrow! I know this: a bunch of good people out there watching this mess on the news and social media sure have been praying hard. Some guardian angels have been surrounding our families and loved ones up in these coves and hollers. These are the good things I know. While we can focus on the aftermath of ultimate crises and horrendous storms that look like a war zone, we also get to know our communities in times like this. We are cut off because all major highways are closed. The National Guard and Red Cross will show up when/if they can get here. So far, all we've had are neighbors and community. I hope more rain doesn't come, but it's in the forecast. The river that cut through my yard has receded. Water and food pickup sites will be starting tomorrow, according to 570 AM radio (which we've been going to our cars to listen to periodically to know what's going on beyond this road). This is going to be a long, slow recovery. Asheville and the surrounding mountains were once thought to be one of the safest places to live as far as having hardly any natural disasters, but now she is a place being carved by water into something else—still the place I will always call home. I haven’t been on here in almost 2 years, but given that cell service is mostly down, I will provide some updates here. Helene was absolutely devastating, as you all know. Asheville is mostly isolated via interstate, and we are relying heavily on air drops. There is no power, and no running water. This storm is now classified as a 500 Year event on the magnitude frequency index. We have no confirmed count on casualties, but hundreds of Search & Rescue missions have already taken place, and more are ongoing. Ag Center shelter is at capacity, AB-Tech has opened a third shelter, and I have no data on Harrah’s Cherokee Civic Center at this time. If you work with me, and you can make it, we will meeting at the Civic Center at 2:00pm today to help distribute water. 99.9 FM, 94.9 FM, 88.1 FM, and 570 AM have been reliable sources of information, though they are having technical issues impacting their broadcasting. Emergency Services are requesting people stay off the roads, as the traffic is impacting response times. That being said, if you have a need, check with your local fire departments and churches, they are supplying what they can. I am currently at Station 13 on Broadway where Red Cross is distributing supplies on the first floor. If you currently have water, you may not soon, as crews work on restoring infrastructure, so please fill your bathtubs and any jugs you may have NOW, but please note there is a boil advisory. Do not drink water or brush teeth with
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111 Mountain Time on Main Street October 2, 2024 water that has not been sterilized. If you can’t reach your family, do not panic, Buncombe County has set up a missing person database and will be attempting to locate and perform welfare checks. DO NOT call 911 except for life safety issues. Listen y’all, help is coming. But it’s going to take time. Now’s the time to take care of yourselves and your neighbors. Be smart, conserve and ration supplies, and don’t go driving around wasting fuel if you have nowhere important to be. We will get through this stronger than ever, just be patient and be cautious. My prayers are with every one of you; God bless us all. Heather Sener September 30, 2024 Every morning I wake up as if it was a bad dream but it’s not a dream, it’s all very real. I hope the world doesn’t become desensitized by the images they’re seeing. These are our families, homes, churches and schools, our neighborhoods and communities. These are people’s livelihoods and the businesses they rebuilt after the destabilization of Covid lockdowns. Just how much are we supposed to endure? We are broken, we’re in the dark, we can’t clean up the mess because we don’t have water. This is a breeding ground for illness like e-coli and such. The storm has passed but this is not over. We are all very broken right now. Pray for us. We leave our beautiful home today and I don’t know what kind of condition it will be in when we come back. We don’t know what insurance will cover and what it will not because when mold and bacteria grows and spreads, your house is just never the same. Please do not tell us to “look on the bright side” or to just “think positive” we are not okay, we are grieving, we are scared and the future is uncertain. It’s okay not to be okay. Mountain Mule Packer Ranch October 1, 2024 The mule team had a successful day today, and they were able to bring mule loads of food and supplies to many residents in Black Mountain. All went smoothly, and the mules and packers are resting for the night! Their plan for tomorrow, is to bring supplies, food, and check on residents' needs in an area towards Swannanoa, where it is believed 30% of the town's residents are trapped and can't get out. This will be a busy day for the team, and we pray for their safety and stamina!Here at home, we stocked up on a huge amount of supplies, thanks to donations of so many!! And, Tractor Supply generously loaded a 24' stock trailer to the brim with plenty of livestock and pet food and also lots of gear like tarps, batteries, lights, work gloves, brooms, and shovels. Then we met at the Food Lion in Cleveland, NC to collect food and supplies brought by those that wanted to donate. It was so moving and beautiful to see people lined up bringing bag after bag, box after box, and case after case for the cause. We all had tears in our eyes and lumps in our throats as we joined together for a common cause. The devastation in the mountains has broken all of our hearts, but we are thankful that even in this sadness, we see God working through so many wonderful people. We will continue to praise HIM!! Thank you, thank you!!!! I am sitting here safe and sound and not even thirty miles away people are searching for loved ones. Communities we love, all gone. It is beyond imagining. The valleys could not hold the rain that got dumped on the mountain tops, mixed with trees and boulders it all crashed down; a wall of liquid destruction. We who are safe are told to sit tight, volunteer locally, donate if we can. But winter is coming and the news cycle will cycle on to other things and we will have to support our neighbors then. The need is as deep as our valleys. There are years ahead of us to wait for major road repairs, and bridges. Yet some simply hope to have access to the cemeteries where they want to bury their dead. The locals are hardy folks but this is beyond the pale. We have stepped back in time and blessed mule teams have deployed to trek into the remote regions to find people and to bring supplies. The beauty that drew people here is dangerous in a time of climate change where storms can behave in erratic, barely predictable ways. There is grief in the air and it is hard to concentrate on getting anything useful done. It is if the mountains themselves grieve for the destruction that has been unwillingly wrought in their name. Pamela Haddock October 2, 2024
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112 Normally, I'd be one of the first to share some words about current events in our area..... Normally... being the key word here. Nothing about anything we are experiencing is normal. It's hard to wrap your mind around it. I desperately want to share good news. Exciting news. Encouraging news. There's not been a lot of that in the last several days. We are trying to decide if things are getting better, or worse. That decision changes several times a day. It's tough here, folks. Very tough. You can see the news. You can see what's been posted and shared, even more than we can. My daughter in Alaska can tell me more about what's happening in Mitchell and Yancey County than I can, and I live smack in the middle of it. But today......today.... I saw the good. All of it. Our towns people are loving each other hard. They are serving each other deeply. The helpers are here. The trucks are rolling in. Supplies are being air dropped to us. But y'all, it's a straight disaster. Our leadership teams are working around the clock to protect and care for our community. When people ask "What do you need?"....that answer is pretty easy to give. Everything. It's a mess. A bad, bad, mess. A BAD mess. But our people, they are not. They are givers. Workers. Unselfish. Willing to walk the distance with each other. They are getting in the trenches. They are feeding each other. Offering their homes to strangers. Sharing their food, and clothing and caring for each other as only mountain folks can do. They are humble and kind. They share what they have. They protect their own, and everyone else's too. They care for random strangers, and random animals. Today, I heard music. I heard laughter. I saw kids playing on the Square and on the sidewalks. We all got in the food lines together. Many of us were blessed with hot meals from people that showed up to love us. Mr Hammond keeps saying "never in my lifetime have I seen anything like this..." He's awesome. And he's old. I figure if it's not happened in his lifetime, it just doesn't need to happen We live in Mitchell County, and work in Yancey. My husband works in Buncombe, and lost his entire office. We are right in the thick of it. It IS bad. Very bad. I can't stress that enough. But the good, is VERY good. Our people will ban together and do what we need to. Thank you to the helpers. Thank you to the folks that are fighting to get to us. Thank you to our local Law Enforcement, our Rescue Squad, our Emergency Services folks. Thank you to the kitchens that are staying open and serving us well. Thank you to the people that are sending supplies. It is unfathomable what is really happening. Whatever you're seeing on the news, it's worse. We sure do love you, Burnsville. You're our friends and you're our family. We will do our best, and we'll ask God to do the rest. Please stay safe. Please. It's a scary time out there. Mountain Time on Main Street October 2, 2024
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113 Cynthia Rand October 3, 2024 We had "SOS signal only" today in my area. Helicopters made probably 50-100, maybe more, trips over the mountains behind me in search and rescue operations. My sister made it to Black Mountain and Swannanoa in the early afternoon to attempt getting a signal but could only get texts out. So if you didn’t get a reply text from me, that’s why, and we finally did get a signal around dinner time when we had gathered with a couple of neighbors for a shared dinner. There’s some sad, hard news coming in—I don’t want to talk to you about the smell of death—and a couple more landslides that took out two cell towers (fact check needed on that since many things are posted or passed by word of mouth, and I am wondering). But I do want to tell you of a few good things I know are true: My sister came home with a report that the crews have gotten the power lines up on the side of Hwy 70 from Black Mountain all the way down to Lytle Cove. Also, Hopey’s Grocery is open till 3. So electricity is coming; y’all hang in there. Other things that happened today: A relative dropped by a solid propane grill! It has two burners, a grill, and a tiny oven. Do you know what this means?! I can boil water from the creek for dishes and get a tiny basin bath as well. Also, I can cook more food to share!!!! Tonight we had a shared meal. One neighbor who ventured out on this risky road to his studio in the River Arts District came in with sad news—his kilns, tools, and all his clay art were destroyed. Then we found out it’s his birthday. So my sweet aunt went off and came back with a chocolate stash, and we sang happy birthday to Nick. Then we freaking ate chocolate candy to celebrate! It is what you do when you don’t have cake. Then we read aloud the messages inside our Dove candy wrappers—some said “happy holidays,” somebody said their wrapper said “eat more chocolate,” but we had a good laugh, and one of my wrappers said “exhale the past and inhale the future.” The future, I guess, is now. One day at a time. This morning, the church down below me was giving out boxes of food and waters, drive-in style. I walked the dogs down there and met some of the workers and their kids. My dogs Luna and Johnny are big friendly dogs, and let me tell you what good medicine it was for those kids and my dogs to meet each other, play, and laugh. It was good medicine for me to meet neighbors, as I always chose to hermit away. An update on my friend Elizabeth, who was rescued from Summer Haven above Bee Tree near the dam on horseback: She was able to talk to us about it today. She came down from the mountain with one duffle bag of clothes, her pocketbook, and her important documents. Last night and today have been a hard awakening for her since she and her neighbors were cut off from knowing anything about the devastation throughout all of Appalachia and the severity of the storm at this end of Buncombe County. NCDOT is or will be working on Bee Tree Rd that leads up to the dam because it is Asheville’s backup water source. Summer Haven Road, which runs above Bee Tree, has two 20ft chasms in it. It wasn’t even a paved road. Water has carved extra rivers here in the valley like you can’t possibly imagine until you see it, but up close to the dam it’s crazy bad. Her late husband David helped build that dam. “It’s strong,” he told us, “it’ll hold up.” In my heart of hearts, I imagine his spirit has come back from Heaven with a host of angels holding that dam strong, facing it with arms extended and palms flat against it with all their strength and might. The only thing as strong Mountain Time on Main Street October 2, 2024 as water is the Spirit. And the Spirit is made of Love, and one thing I know for sure: David loved his Elizabeth. I see the Spirit of Love moving daily here, in the kindness of strangers pooling resources, the strength of family and friends, and the help coming in from near and far helping us survive this dire situation. Here’s another thing: When we mountain people from here get asked where we are from, we always used to say “Swannana-nowhere” (like an inside joke) and laugh because we thought, well, there’s not really much here but the former home of Beacon that made blankets and the warehouse of Ingles, the main grocery supplier of food here that should’ve never been built in a dang flood zone to start with, but is situated right there along 70 where Black Mountain and Swannanoa blend into each other. So we are buckled in between Black Mountain (first town you stop in once you get across Old Fort Mountain—a mountain made of solid granite that takes seven miles to cross, and the continental divide begins there) and Asheville, which begins at Oteen, where the city limits begin and where you can get on the Blue Ridge Parkway and go North or South. Black Mountain is famous for its camps for youth, its religious conference centers, and it is nestled under Montreat. It was a destination for tourists who wanted to see the mountains without the crowds downtown. Asheville—well, I don’t need to tell you what Asheville was like—you’ve probably visited. Asheville might have had plans to incorporate Swannanoa some time ago; not sure Swannanoa ever wanted to be incorporated. But Swannanoa had it going on: We had Okey Dokey’s (still standing, but maybe damaged), Swannanoa Flower Shop (still standing), Grovement (a community who refused to let their library be torn down this past year), Owen Middle and High School. I went to Swannanoa Elementary, which is now William D. Williams Elementary. It had CD Owen Park where I walked the dogs around the ponds or went down the trail by the river. It had Chemtronics, no longer a working facility for a few decades, which made mustard gas and Agent Orange during and for the Vietnam War, and the leftover stuff got buried there off Bee Tree Rd. It has a women’s prison, and we passed the buses evacuating the women out the day we went to get my sister some things from her trailer. Swannanoa is where the campus of Warren Wilson College is situated, along with their massive fields for cattle and sheep and acres of corn and various crops. Swannanoa is also a place of many churches and homes, and many, many hard-working people, who have no certain future now except to get through day by day, hour by hour. There’s so much more in Swannanoa than I can list. What is left of Swannanoa you’ve probably seen on the news. I’ve not seen the news, but I heard that the president flew over today. Oh wow!!! I said and kept on cooking. There’s so much to do. So many good local people and organizations are showing up, helping by bringing water, food, and necessities for the hundreds of now homeless. I walked in the Beacon area yesterday, and there’s a deep sadness in the faces of my people—our people, your people—and there’s such a Spirit of Love. So in my wildest imaginings, I see a future far, far down the line of a rebuilt Swannanoa—not the same as it was, but a new one, a good, solid Swannanoa. And when people ask us where we’re from, we will say “Swanna-somewhere.” And everyone will know exactly where. Because we should be proud to be from a place of people resilient and tough and strong enough to endure this most surreal, unfair, decimating blow from Mother Nature. We are a people descended mostly from farmers and hard workers from many occupations, from people with faith. A people who matter.
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114 Jonathan A. Neary October 4, 2024 I was able to buy a generator from Camping World today, so I can stay in my camper living a life of luxury this evening! Hoopers Creek Baptist is getting organized in a big way, so please tell me what you need, and I will find a way to make it happen. We are operating as a central hub, and the army helped us set up some shelves to manage our inventory. I made contact with Blue Ridge Cowboy Church off Cane Creek, and they helped us with some supplies, and we will be reciprocating with the things they need. If you’re near Fairview, they need pallets to get their hay off the ground; I will bring them the ones I have at the house in the morning, but I’m sure they’ll be happy to get as many as possible! I’m trying to get a truck load of round bales here in the morning. Logistics are tough with FEMA check points as of this morning, but we’re working on it. We’re still running supplies out via UTV if anyone near Hoopers Creek needs anything but can’t get to us. There were reports of looting a little ways down the road, which I can’t personally confirm or deny; I will say this: don’t try it, please, we’re giving out anything you need, anything you don’t that isn’t yours is not worth losing your life over. I feel so blessed to have met so many incredible people this past week, I have never been more proud to live somewhere in my life. Mountain folk are absolutely amazing, resilient, and kind hearted. I also want to give a big thank you to all my friends around the country who have reached out and provided me updates and remote support, I love you all, and it means more to me than you will ever know! God bless y’all, and goodnight! The picture we want to paint for you is one of resilience, not desperation. Unfortunately, there is an enormous amount of desperation. People are still missing. Homes are still gone. Livelihoods are still shuttered. Kids are still questioning what's happening. Older adults are waiting on what to do next, and looking for where to go for help. We are a tired bunch. All of us. We are also fearful of what's to come next. You'll not find anyone that isn't experiencing devastating loss, or isn't weary to their bones. Pain is pain, and one shouldn't compare it. This is tough stuff. Our entire region is suffering. The helicopters and sirens are a bit overwhelming. All day, every Mountain Time on Main Street October 4, 2024 day. When night comes, it's awfully silent. We need the helicopters and sirens still running. We need what they are bringing, and people need to be accounted for. We want to share all the good things, and only the good things. Life is easier when things are good. Sometimes, the reality is tough. There are MANY good things coming out of this. People are finding their purpose again. They are losing their hyper-focus on politics, and differences.... and becoming FRIENDS and neighbors again. They are using pens and pencils to leave notes. Handwritten notes. Tear stained prayers and thankful shouts are going up all over the place. There is great loss. Great loss. Don't be deceived. But there is also HOPE. We see it. We feel it. We will see it more clearly when we can take a hot shower and not stumble around in the dark. But we still see it. Already. Don't you agree Burnsville? Surely so. Cynthia Rand October 9, 2024 Can the power of Love overcome the rising twisted political mess occurring on social media and on the radio? I had to turn it off. It was making me ill. If you got your boots on the ground and are in this valley you will see people of all faiths, both political parties (and more) and all races, and orientations working side by side, with help from Fema, Red Cross and a multitude of military disaster relief teams as well as local relief centers like Beloved Asheville, Hearts with Hands, and Samaritans Pure, and even more local businesses and groups who pull together resources like the folks down at Silverado’s and Blount Pretzel, and so many churches that offer up their spaces for relief sites. SEE THE GOOD and turn away from false rumors, fake AI posts etc. Now is not the time to be sending in mean spirited people to stir mess up, we are still busy doing the Lord’s Work, which is Love thy neighbor, saving by literally physically still find people alive and dead. There’s been less helicopters today in my neck of the woods today This morning several of The military trucks went hastily back out to WWC hauling a temp bridge. Maybe their work is done on Bull Creekand Shope Creek I don’t know or maybe maybe they were urgently called up to find people in another holler?... Tonight in my little neighborhood there is a quietness. The generators of my neighbors above me on the mountain are silent finally since we got power above Riceville church today. The sounds
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115 The way this community has drawn together and literally dug each other out has been a beautiful thing to watch. Friends have become family, and family has become friends. (Sometimes, that's a new thing, you know! ) This entire NATION has poured into our mountains, and we love them for it. My new American flag hit me in the face yesterday as I was scrubbing out a rug, and I was overwhelmed with love for our country and what it stands for. United. That's even in our name. The UNITED States of America. May our homes and families remain UNITED. May our small communities remain UNITED. May our regions remain UNITED. May our entire country remain UNITED. It shouldn't take horrific tragedy to pull us together. Since it has, could we please stay that way? Kindness matters. Helpers matter. Selfless giving matters. Standing arm in arm, IT MATTERS! So many pictures I have NOT taken. So many I have that I just could never share. It's too personal. Too raw. Too much hurt for folks who have lost everything. Sunshine, and babies, and smiling faces.....we will share them all day long. Please remember this situation is really only beginning for us up here as we try to move forward. We need a way to rebuild what we've lost. We need a way to make a living. We need a way to keep hundreds of people warm, that are sleeping with no power, in tents or cars. Many of our people are now choosing between health insurance and house payments. Choosing Mountain Time on Main Street October 11, 2024 of crickets chanting is slowed down to a different rhythm. Three nights ago after running hard on adrenaline for 9 days I took some aleve pm that I found at a relief site to force myself into sleeping. I had to let go and give in and get deep rest. With my Johnny Cash curled up next to me and sweet kitty Georgella beside my head on the pillow, and with Luna by my bedside, I succumbed to 5 solid hours of deep sleep and had some good dreams. Next night same thing. So if you are out there running hard whether on the front lines or cleaning sewage or mud from your basement or cutting up fallen trees, or cooking for people or just stopping by someone’s house to check on them, or delivering clothes or water or hot meals, or delivering flowers to funerals or scrambling for supplies to share and you’ve not stopped for days and can’t sleep then go get you something to force yourself to rest. More pkgs arrived today. Thank you thank you thank you! I will never stop being grateful for these most necessary items. We got along way to go with the water situation. If you have a well you might want to get it checked. We don’t have a well. Just some springs that haven’t been used in decades. Toxins seep through in massive flooding situations. Going be boiling water from the creek for a long while. Drinkable water running through pipes is a long way off. But got a special delivery at a meet up from work friends lending me A base to set those big blue water tanks on. It plugs in and I have electricity now so it provides us with cold drinking and cooking water. Another Blessing! I can take the big blue tank of water and get it refilled at the relief water sites. What a great invention, right? There’s good going on all around. Bass-Smith Funeral Home offers compassionate funeral and cremation services in Hickory and Granite Falls, NC, guiding families through honoring their loved ones with dignity and respect. HICKORY LOCATION 334 Second Street NW Hickory, NC 28601 (828) 322-3015 GRANITE FALLS LOCATION 106 South Main Street Granite Falls, NC 28630 (828) 396-1305
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Mountain Time on Main Street October 2, 2024 between gas and groceries. School won't be back in session for a bit still, so childcare is an issue. Safe kids are an issue. Mental health is an issue. Physical health is an issue. Financial health is an issue. No water, is an issue. A MAJOR issue. Now that the water has receeded, we need a way to survive the storm that's only beginning for our people. Keeping it positive, but keeping it very real. It's tough up here, friends. We love you, and we thank you. Sincerely. Missy Harris October 14, 2024 A man was arrested this week for threatening FEMA workers. We are literally trying to put our homes back together and place the pieces of our lives that we can salvage into some semblance of order. And people are acting like fools, interrupting the very resources that can help us do that. The truth is FEMA funds will not replace homes. Maybe parts of homes. Maybe enough to figure out how to start over here or somewhere else. Some of the losses in these mountains are beyond repair. So many people are going to be starting over from scratch. FEMA will not replace beloved items cared for and saved. We now recognize how little things matter. Some losses will never be restored. Damaged and destroyed homes have to be assessed by FEMA. If FEMA workers are intimidated and threatened, that work is delayed. Winter is coming. The morning air is already so brisk that I need a jacket. Holes in roofs and walls have to be repaired as soon as possible. And for that to be done, FEMA assessments must take place. We’ve been lucky. The skies have been blue for the past 17 days. Thank God. Eventually, it will rain again. Eventually it will snow. We have no idea when more rain arrives how it may cause more landslides and sinkholes beneath our roads. Please don’t disparage and delay the people who are here to help us. Stop. We are all neighbors. We want each other to have roofs over our heads, at least I think we do. In the Gospels, Jesus tells a few stories that begin like this: The kingdom of God is like . . . I’ll tell you what’s truer than anything I know right now. The kingdom of God is like what I am seeing every single day here in WNC. People are helping each other. We are not asking what your religious beliefs are before we pass a box of food. We are not asking who you are voting for before we pick up shovels to get the muck and mud out of each other’s houses. We are not asking people who they love before we ask them for help. We are not requiring people to prove they have a need before we meet the need. We are sharing resources. We are helping each other get back on our feet. We are filling up each other’s water buckets. We are sharing food. We are picking up meals from World Central Kitchen. We are taking showers in public. We are throwing our towels over our shoulders as if we are walking home from the beach. We are drinking cans of water, courtesy of Anheuser Busch, canned especially for
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disasters and tragedies like this. We are rebuilding our lives, and we are learning to give and receive from our neighbors and to receive the generosity coming to us from others outside these hills. Those of us who are more accustomed to being on the giving side are learning to accept help. What I see happening in this community is nothing short of a miracle. Even when it feels like there are beautiful little miracles everywhere, we are tired. The weight of this is settling into our bodies. I looked at myself in the mirror today, and I saw lines on my face, and I swear they have grown longer in these past 17 days. That’s not a bad thing. It just tells me this is real. This is hard. This sucks. I’m lucky. My house and family are okay. I don’t believe that God favored me above those who perished or lost everything. This is just an utter tragedy, plain and simple, complex and complicated. God is showing up all around us. The Spirit is showing us that a new way of being in community together is possible. It’s not necessarily a bad thing that we’re all up in each other’s business. It’s holy and it’s sacred. There are moments when I feel numb. I know I’m not alone in that. There are days I’d rather stay in bed or take a long nap. My sister says I have a touch of the narcolepsy. She’s not wrong. But this is different. This is mentally, emotionally, and physically exhausting. We go to bed feeling that way. We wake up with the same tasks before us that we did the day before. Groundhog Day. Repeat. Having electricity helps. But many are still waiting for that. We are all waiting for water. I’m working with a team of people to try to figure out medical respite possibilities. Connecting faith communities with people who need a place to go after being released from the hospital. Care facilities, hours away. Hospice rooms, rigid and stark. And the internet fails when I need it most to contribute to that work. It feels nearly impossible to have a regular schedule. To have meetings. To be on time. To pay attention. We are trying to figure out how we are going to get our kids back in school. Another half of a year lost. The gaps were already so wide. Now what? There have been enough lies about these Appalachian mountains. Remember: it’s apa-latch-ians. Please try to get that right. It really stings when you don’t. It’s a small kindness you can offer to say the word the way we say it. Is it possible to feel the saddest you've ever felt and the happiest you've ever felt - all in the same moment? YES! These are the facts. The lies run deep. They always have. Please don’t add to that litany more than already exists. 22 days. Things are already hard enough. Let’s not make them harder. Pay attention to what is happening. Backward moving forward. Chainsaws replacing steak knives. Sawdust replacing gourmet meals. Kindness infusing our days. Learning. Loving. Sharing. Standing. Seeing. Lifting. Working. Feeding. Mending. Weeping. Wailing. Lamenting. Growing. Leaving. Staying. Gerunds propelling us forward. We’re busy healing and repairing. We don’t have time for lies. 105 West Main Street 105 West Main Street Burnsville, NC 28714 Burnsville, NC 28714 828-536-5159 828-536-5159 mountaintimeonmainst.com mountaintimeonmainst.com Furniture, Home Goods, Mountain Vittles Furniture, Home Goods, Mountain Vittles
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118 Mountain Time on Main Street October 17, 2024 "I can hear people's voices changing..." My hometown friend is away on an extended trip right now, and will be returning to Spruce Pine in a few days. She reached out to me within hours of the Hurricane hitting, and has checked in repeatedly throughout the last few weeks. I have tossed and turned all I can toss and turn tonight, so I got up and reached back to her. We chatted a second about her trip, and she asked how it was going here..... I told her. She said to me " I can hear people's voices changing." Voices ARE changing. There is a weariness. Eyes are tired. Hearts are broken. Souls are worn. Hands are calloused. Bank accounts are emptier. Homes are being bulldozed after digging for days for anything personal that could be saved. Cars and trucks on the road are dented and scratched. Big dents and big scratches. Many of them are beyond repair. Still so many folks without power or good water. Still so many with nowhere to call home. Nowhere. The wind blew some the past few days. People panicked. Power flickered and was lost again. It rained a little yesterday. As dusty as it's been, rain freaks us out. It is cold. Rain turned to sleet. The sun came back out. It was still cold. So many people are cold. Facebook is hard. It's impossible to mindlessly scroll it anymore. There is good information out there. There is bad information out there. I kind of just want to know who had what for supper, who is mad at their neighbor's barking dog, and who broke up or got together with whom. Funerals are beginning for those recovered. The helicopters have slowed down. That's a good thing. And a bad thing. We are over run with donated clothes. We are over run with trash and debris. We are over run with traffic. We've never had a traffic issue here. If our voices do change...and they are.... for sure... May they change for the good. May they be stronger. May we be kinder. Slower to speak. Slower to argue. Slower to disagree. Slower to react to negative people. May we understand more. Forgive quicker. Love deeper. Work harder. May we speak good things. May we speak life, not death. May we find our own strength, and then pass it on. Immediately. May we join up with perfect strangers to make our world better. Today, we are accepting a large delivery of supplies from Charlotte. Then, we are headed to Weaverville to deliver as much water as we can haul to our friend who lives on Pensacola. It's safer to meet in Weaverville, than try to traverse the roads to her house through Burnsville. She's coming one direction, I'm coming the other. She goes over the mountain, Ill go around it. I'm gonna hug her tight. I'm going to the river house to find Caty. She's there, working in the mud. Gonna take the little boys to the park if I can find one. Fixing my Kaj whatever he wants for supper. Waiting to hear about my David's possible new office they have found to start over. I have a kid a need to find, and two more that I'm gonna hug and tell them I love them. Call my Graci. Keep the new G'Baby tonight after work. I'm hugging my parents. Thanking them for showing up every day, all day, wherever their kids and grandkids are. Yesterday, the couple that picked up our Kyleigh the morning after the storm came in to the shop. She was walking to town to find her mama. That's me She lives a good distance from town. Discover the Mystery of Face Jugs Face jugs are more than clay— they are captivating portraits with a rich, complex history. Early American Face Jugs by the late George Myer reveals their artistic value and unique “personality.” Known for uncovering art before it was celebrated, Myer’s collection opens new perspectives on these fascinating objects. Join Kay White and George Myer Jr. at the CVPAF for a special lecture exploring this groundbreaking work. Explore the artistry and history of these American treasures. March 28th & 29th, 2025 CATAWBAVALLEYPOTTERYFESTIVAL.COM
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119 They loaded her up and brought her to the shop, and she left me a note that said "Mom, I'm ok. I am coming for you as soon as I can." She knew Juli and I would be over as soon as the roads were OK. She knew we'd be to find her. We found that little note, and both of us cried. We are ugly when we cry. Both of us. I'll keep that post it note forever. Forever. Anyway, Daddy was slicing tomatoes for the food truck, and Mama was rocking the new baby. I wanted them to meet Jim and Kaye. We went in the kitchen together, and I introduced them to he and Mama. Mama cried. Daddy took off his rubber gloves and shook their hands in the most humble form I've ever witnessed. I've seen my dad shake a LOT of hands over the years. This handshake was different. This thank you, was different. Back to our voices.... May we also remain full of gratitude. May we remain honest and humble. May we remain thankful for our heritage, our homeland and our neighbors. May we remain faithful. Steadfast. Unflappable. Love you guys. We will make it. Somehow, someway, we will. Charleen Stokes October 29, 2024 It’s been Over a month now, and today, I had my first big cry. It wasn’t a quiet, gentle release—it was the kind of cry that comes from somewhere deep, the kind where the sobs take over, and you feel it in every part of your body. I cried for all the people who have been devastated by the storm, for the lives turned upside down in a single night. I cried for the ones still out there, fighting to survive, holding onto whatever hope they can find. I cried for those who didn’t make it, for the families who won’t be the same, for the mothers trying to shield their children from freezing temperatures in the mountains. I cried for all the families still looking for loved ones. And I cried for the first responders, EMS, SAR, Fire, Police, volunteers —the men and women who have given everything to help, often carrying the weight of every tragedy they witness. The trauma they’ve seen, the strength they’ve had to find again and again, even as the toll builds. The images and memories they’ll carry with them long after the storm has passed. I cried for our community, for the trauma that we’re all holding together, each of us carrying pieces of the devastation. There’s a sense of loss that runs deeper than any single story, an ache that we feel collectively, even if we can’t fully put it into words. And I cried for the earth herself. She has borne so much—so much rain, so much wind, so much upheaval. She’s been battered and torn apart, yet she continues to hold us, to cradle what’s left of our homes and memories. Every story I’ve heard, every face I’ve seen—it’s all been sitting heavy on my heart. And today, it all came out, the weight of it finally catching up with me. I cried because, if anything, this storm has shown me how fragile safety truly is. How everything we think is solid can be stripped away in an instant. “Being safe” is something we tell ourselves, something we hold onto to feel grounded, but the truth is—it’s an illusion. In moments like this, it becomes so painfully clear that life can change in a heartbeat. Today, I let myself feel it all. I let myself cry for the brokenness, for the uncertainty, for the loss. And in some way, I think we all need that—a space to let it all out, to feel it fully. To everyone—the families, the first responders, the community, and the earth—we are all finding our way through this. Sending love and light to everyone out there still finding their way forward. You’re not alone. Love and light always YOUR PERFECT MOUNTAIN HOME IS WAITING FOR YOU TO FIND IT. 828.230.8218 STEPHENROBINSONREALTY.COM STEPHEN ROBINSON knows where to look.
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120 The roar of the river was deafening, drowning out everything but the hammering of her heart. Christy Thrift stood on the edge of her road—a road she had walked a thousand times before, now transformed into a torrent of churning water and debris. The Tow River, her constant companion as she ran NC Outdoor Adventures, had risen like a beast unchained, swelling 35 feet and turning the area into "Ground Zero" for the flood, swallowing homes, lives, and memories. Somewhere in that maelstrom was Lenny—her friend, her neighbor—swept away into the chaos. When Hurricane Helene hit, Western North Carolina was already teetering on the edge. The Tow River, usually quiet at a couple of feet, had swelled to nine before the storm fully arrived. Christy watched helplessly as waters climbed, transforming her peaceful community into a disaster zone. By the time the winds died down, the devastation was unimaginable. Homes that had stood for generations were reduced to rubble, their cinder block walls torn apart like paper. Christy and her neighbors became first responders. They couldn't wait for the National Guard—they didn’t have time. For three days, they fought the rising waters with shovels, determination, and makeshift tools. They cleared roads by hand, evacuated neighbors, and delivered insulin to those who wouldn’t have survived without it. This was a community fighting for itself, with every minute counting. The house that haunted Christy the most was Lenny's. She had watched it float away, the chimney the last part visible before it vanished into the river. Days passed without news, and it became clear Lenny was gone. The search shifted from rescue to recovery, and hope began to fade. "We need to prepare," Christy told friends and neighbors. It was the truth none of them wanted to face. The flood left deep emotional scars. People lost not only their homes but also a sense of security. Children who had played in the fields now looked at the river with fear. Neighbors who once shared laughter now faced each other with hollow eyes, haunted by what had been lost. Yet, there was a quiet resolve to rebuild and reclaim what the storm had taken. The scope of their loss was hard to grasp. Over a hundred bodies, human and animal, were scattered along a six-mile stretch, with the National Guard marking sites where vultures circled or the air smelled of decay. "You can't see them," Christy said. "They're buried in sand, up in the trees, crushed in sediment." It wasn’t just a recovery—it was a reckoning with nature’s brutal force and the fragility of everything they held dear. Christy recounted how they braved the elements, their hands blistered, bodies exhausted. They formed human chains to pass supplies, devised pulleys to get food to those trapped. Every effort was a lifeline, a testament to their determination. They became family in those moments—bound by T T oe to to oe to to e e with Nature
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121 proximity and survival. Every aching muscle was for each other. Yet, amid the devastation, there was strength. Christy spoke of how they cleared roads, delivered supplies, and checked on elderly neighbors who had stayed behind. The community rallied to get a 96-year-old couple with dementia airlifted to safety. These were the moments—of neighbors becoming heroes—that defined Hurricane Helene’s aftermath. One of the hardest parts was knowing when to stop searching. Christy described the shift from saving people to recovering those lost. The National Guard joined them, marking sites where bodies might be. It was exhausting work, both physically and emotionally. The community balanced grief and duty, knowing they had to recover loved ones even if the truth was unbearable. The road ahead remains long. With temperatures dropping, there is still much to be done. Christy and her neighbors need propane, camping stoves, and food. This isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon of resilience. Standing amidst the sand-covered wreckage, Christy gestured to the stripped landscape. "This was all green," she said softly, remembering what had been. The mines up the mountain left their mark, with sediment piling up where lush grass and towering oaks once stood. The river had changed everything—the landscape, the people, the future. But in Christy's eyes, there was still hope—a determination to rebuild, honor those lost, and bring life back to the valley. Christy spoke of their plans to rebuild. The community was already discussing where to start, who needed help first, and how to prepare better next time. They knew it wouldn't be easy. The scars of Hurricane Helene would last for years, both on the land and in their hearts. But they had each other, and that mattered most. Together, they would plant new trees, rebuild homes, and bring life back to the valley. As she spoke, it was clear this community— though battered and bruised—would rise again. Together, they would face winter, recovery, and the memories of what they lost. Because that’s who they are: the people of Western North Carolina, unbroken, standing strong against whatever comes next. Revive your sofa instead of replacing it. 828-855-8722 REPLACEMENTSLIPCOVEROUTLET.COM
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122 For anyone who was watching, the painting of Downtown Spruce Pine must have looked out-of-place as it floated out of DT's Blue Ridge Java and down what had become a river where the street once was. The painting had hung on the café’s wall for nearly two decades, commissioned by owners Trish and David back in 2007, and painted by local artist Barbara Kahn. Now, swept away by the floodwaters, it seemed lost forever. On September 27, Hurricane Helene struck western North Carolina with a force none of us could have imagined. Among the countless places destroyed was DT’s Blue Ridge Java, the beloved coffee shop at the heart of the community for over 20 years. It was ravaged by 10 feet of rushing floodwater. In an instant, everything Trish and David had poured their hearts into was swept away. The loss of the painting was particularly poignant. But fate had other plans for that painting. Railway workers helping clear the aftermath near the train depot noticed the painting in a pile of mud and rubble. They recognized the scene right away: a charming rendition of Spruce Pine's downtown, a testament to the small town's spirit. They decided it needed to come back home. "Nineteen years ago, we commissioned Barbara Kahn for this piece," Trish and David shared. "We wanted proof that we existed in downtown Spruce Pine. This painting has hung on our wall ever since. We're so extraordinarily happy to have a piece of our history back! We are incredibly grateful to the railway workers for finding this painting and giving us a light of hope in rebuilding!" The painting was muddy and worn, but still whole—and that’s when Barbara Kahn stepped in again. "I picked up the Spruce Pine painting that was recently carried away by a river of mud and deposited in a pile of rubble near the train depot. Railway workers found it and gave it back to them. Now I will meticulously restore it and it will hang again in the newly renovated Blue Ridge Java." Barbara worked carefully to restore the piece, taking advantage of a sunny Autumn day to clean it up outside. She shared updates with her followers, showing a before and after of her work. "I’m thinking it’s beautiful and strong with its scars and I’m going to leave them," she wrote. "The next step is that I’m going to paint it with a clear varnish which will preserve it ‘til kingdom come." The scars left behind are a testament to what Spruce Pine and its people have endured, and their strength to rebuild. It's no longer just a painting of downtown; it’s a symbol of hope—a burst of sunshine that helped restore faith in the future, even when everything seemed lost. A Flood, A Painting, and Fate Photography courtesy of DT's Blue Ridge Java & Barbara Kahn
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Discover your dream home in the heart of North Carolina's High Country with The Lear Group. Whether buying or selling, our expertise ensures your journey is smooth, efficient, and tailored to you. LearGroupRealEstate.com Foothills Digest loves Appalachia. Sick of folks pronouncing it wrong? Show them the right way! foothillsdigest.com/store
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124 Food Storage: Stock Up Wisely Having the right food on hand is crucial during an emergency. Freeze- dried foods are ideal because they have a long shelf life—up to 25 years—and are easy to store. Freeze-dried meals, fruits, and vegetables are nutritious and convenient, requiring only boiling water to prepare. Harmony House Foods, based in western North Carolina, offers a variety of freeze-dried options, making them a reliable choice for emergency supplies. Their leadership tells us, “Emergencies are unplanned events. But being prepared can be planned. It’s always a good idea to have shelf-stable foods and other supplies stashed away in case of the unexpected.” Water: Don’t Get Caught Without It Water is essential in any emergency. Store at least one gallon per person per day for a minimum of three days, but more is always better. For long-term preparedness, have a way to filter water from available sources. The Platypus QuickDraw water filter is a lightweight, effective tool that can quickly turn creek or rainwater into safe drinking water. This filter is a must-have for any emergency kit. The Essentials: What Else to Include in Your Kit In addition to food and water, other essential items include: • First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and prescription medications. • Fireproof and Waterproof Document Bag: Store important documents like identification, insurance papers, and licenses. • Flashlights and Batteries: Power outages are common, so have flashlights, batteries, and candles. Headlamps are also useful. • Battery-Powered Radio: Stay informed with a battery-powered or hand-crank radio. • Multi-Tool or Pocket Knife: These tools are invaluable in various situations. • Sanitation Supplies: Include trash bags, moist towelettes, and toilet paper. • Blankets and Warm Clothing: Storms can cause power outages that lead to cold temperatures, especially at night. Know Your Neighbors In emergencies, help from official sources may take time to arrive, but your neighbors are right there, experiencing the same situation alongside you. Building a strong sense of community before a crisis can be one of the most valuable forms of preparation. In times of need, neighbors can provide immediate assistance, such as helping with urgent tasks, sharing resources, and keeping each other informed about what is happening in the area. Beyond practical help, they also offer emotional support, which can be incredibly comforting during stressful and uncertain times. Strong neighborhood connections foster resilience, ensuring that everyone has a trusted network to rely on when facing the unexpected. Plan Ahead: Communication and Safety Keep a hard copy of important contacts in your emergency kit, as power outages may make phones inaccessible. Include numbers for family, doctors, and emergency contacts. Make sure your family knows the plan, including a designated safe meeting point and an emergency contact outside the area. Consider a portable phone charger, ideally solar-powered, to stay connected when power is out. Knowledge Is Power Being prepared is not just about having supplies; it's also about knowing what to do. Emergencies can be chaotic, and taking time beforehand to learn critical skills can make all the difference. Learn how to turn off utilities like gas, water, and electricity, as this can prevent further damage or dangerous situations in the aftermath of a disaster. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid so you can respond to injuries— sometimes help may not arrive immediately, and the ability to address a medical issue on your own could save a life. By stocking essentials like freeze-dried foods, keeping a water filter on hand, and having an emergency plan, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever comes your way. Preparedness is not only about having the right tools but also about building confidence, resilience, and a sense of readiness that enables you to face the unexpected with courage and control. Remember, in times of crisis, your preparation could make all the difference—not just for yourself, but for your family and community as well. When hurricanes or emergencies occur, having a plan can make all the difference. The recent devastation of Hurricane Helene has shown how vital it is to prepare for the unexpected. Whether you live in western North Carolina or elsewhere, emergencies can happen without warning, and being ready can protect both you and your loved ones. Here’s a guide to help you stay prepared.
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125 Since 1990 2613 N Center St, Hickory (828) 323-8477 kellyandcompanysalon.com Use this QR code to book your appointment! Imagine preparing for a hurricane with just a few flashlights and some snacks. It sounds absurd—yet such 'preparation' might be enough if you’re 2,000 feet up in the mountains, far from the coastline. That describes life for many in Asheville, which is why so few of us were ready for Hurricane Helene. Among those most vulnerable were our neighbors with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A home of six such residents, who also have hearing and visual impairments, has existed for decades near UNC Asheville. These individuals face daily challenges that many of us take for granted. They are autistic, or deal with other intellectual differences, and some have additional physical disabilities. Despite these challenges, they are part of a tight-knit community that strives to support their needs. As the services coordinator, I supervise the direct support workers who care for them. These direct support workers are remarkable individuals who bring patience, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility to their work every day. They are not just caregivers—they are advocates, companions, and the steady presence that our residents rely on. When the storm hit, these staff members went above and beyond, staying with the residents despite power outages, supply shortages, and isolation. They put the needs of the residents first, ensuring they were safe, comforted, and had what they needed to get through the storm. The power went out early Friday and remained out for ten days. Cell phone service disappeared, and communication was impossible. Yet the direct support staff stayed until others could make their way through dangerous conditions to relieve them. They worked long shifts, sometimes going without sleep, and faced hazardous conditions without hesitation because they knew the residents were depending on them. Neighbors provided propane stoves and hot meals, and readers of this magazine sent supplies. Despite the challenges, our clients remained brave, and the staff’s dedication shone through. The lead worker at the house took charge, making sure that basic needs were met, even using water from a rain barrel to flush toilets when necessary. They found creative solutions to keep everyone as comfortable as possible, showing incredible resilience and resourcefulness. I witnessed firsthand the resilience of our community— neighbors helping neighbors, coworkers going the extra mile, and a commitment to care that never wavered. The direct support workers exemplified what it means to be selfless and dedicated, and their actions during the crisis were nothing short of heroic. In times of crisis, the spirit of camaraderie and genuine goodness in our team made all the difference. We endured, not just because of preparation, but because of the people who stepped up when it mattered most. Cheap Flashlights & Snacks: An Account of Hurricane Helene in Asheville by Thad Eckard
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The Story of Miss Kathleen Lipe, Biltmore Village, and the 1916 Flood Biltmore Village, as we know it today, stands as a charming reminder of its origins as part of George W. Vanderbilt's vision for the region. Nestled at the entrance to the Biltmore Estate, the village was planned as a picturesque community, designed with care to support the estate and serve as a home to many of the estate's craftsmen and their families. The streets were lined with pebbledash and half-timbered homes, their quaint exteriors adding to the serene beauty of this pocket of Western North Carolina. Biltmore Village's English-inspired design, complete with tree-lined streets and beautifully crafted homes, was intended to be an idyllic community—a peaceful haven for those who lived there. On July 16, 1916, that peace was shattered as a combination of heavy rains and two powerful hurricanes caused the Swannanoa River to rise and overflow its banks, swallowing Biltmore Village in one of the worst floods Western North Carolina had ever seen. The Flood of 1916: A Storm of Unprecedented Destruction In a matter of hours, the tranquil village was transformed into a chaotic, roaring floodplain. The Swannanoa River surged through the streets, turning familiar landmarks into scenes of devastation. Many residents, including Captain James Cornelius Lipe, his daughter Kathleen, and several friends, were caught in the rising waters, facing a battle for survival that would become the stuff of legend. The following newspaper article, published shortly after the flood, in The Asheville Citizen on July 19, 1916, captures the harrowing story of self-sacrifice and heroism that unfolded that day. SELF SACRIFICE DOMINANT NOTE IN FOUR DEATHS- HOW CAPTAIN LIPE, MISS FOISTER AND THE MISSES WALKER DIED AT BILTMORE- MISS KATHLEEN LIPE ONLY ONE TO ESCAPE-FOUR TORN LOOSE, ONE BY ONE, FROM THEIR TREE OF REFUGE IN TORRENT- Self-sacrifice, service to others, and a personal heroism which shall become folk lore when history is forgotten, marked the tragedy of Biltmore green, Sunday, when Captain Lipe, the Misses Walker and Miss Mabel Foister lost their lives in the turbid flood sweeping through that bit of old England transplanted in the hills of Carolina. The late master of Biltmore had trees planted along the streets of his English village, and these trees have thrived and grown marvelously since that day. They add to the beauty of a quaint and picturesque village, and around that third tree on the right from the lodge gate, centered the tragedy of Sunday. One Saved One of the five people who were swept along on the crest of that flood Sunday, and who found present safety in and around that tree, but one remains-the youngest, Kathleen, the darling of old Captain Lipe’s heart. The captain might easily have saved his own life, had he so willed, but so long as strength was given him he aided his youngest daughter in her efforts to resist the fury of the flood calling aloud to her, tied her finally to the tree planted so many years ago by the master of Biltmore, and then–then–he died, you know. From sunrise until almost well towards the fall of night that tree afforded protection to those doomed to die. Captain Lipe was the last to be swept away-after he had done all that man might do to succor the woman. Then one of the trained nurses, whose mission in life was the alleviation of pain, could stand the buffetings of that angry flood no longer, and she disappeared beneath the swirl of the swift current. She had held her younger sister, Miss Marion, close to the tree until numbed hands and arms refused to longer serve. The sisters had been companions in life since
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The Asheville Citizen, 7/19/1916, courtesy of Asheville Pack Library
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128 the death of their mother, many years ago. It was but fitting that the younger, who had been mothered so joyfully buy the older and more competent sister, should be her companion in death, and a sudden rush of turbulent waters carried the girlish form on its crest-swirled it around and around-and then it was soon over, after that. But the fury of the god of waters was not yet satisfied, and he looked hungrily at that tree of death and demanded more–more-and still more sacrifices. The next victim of his fury was Miss Mabel Foister, also a trained nurse, whose self- sacrifice was outmatched by no one of the others looking death steadfastly in the face for so many hours from that tree near the entrance to Biltmore Estate. She might have saved herself, had she so willed, but self-sacrifice was the dominant note of that tragedy, and in her efforts to protect fifteen- year-old Marion, she lost her grasp of the tree’s branches, and was gone. This, then, left but Captain Lipe and his daughter, Kathleen. The last act of the old captain, one of the very first men employed by George W. Vanderbilt, and the oldest employee of the Biltmore estate, was to tie Kathleen to the tree with his coat. It was his supreme effort. He had done all that man might do, and then death came for him, too, and somewhere along that long trail of devastation his mud-covered body now rests. The mistress of Biltmore has given orders that no pains, no expense be spared to recover the body, for captain Lipe was a man-a man all the way through. This now left but Kathleen, the captain’s daughter, in the tree so near the entrance to Biltmore lodge, and the thousands watching wondered how long it would be before–? The capable trained nurse had been the first to go. She had remained in the tree for nearly four hours. Kathleen had been there possibly eight. The roar of the waters increased in their fury. They demanded a complete sacrifice, and the girlish form tied so loosely to the tree drooped closer and closer to the waters. She was numb, only half conscious, and could not remain much longer. The first aid for the young girl was from two men, who, in a home-made boat, built of the floating timbers, reached her late in the afternoon. As they neared the tree their craft broke in two. One of the men jumped for the tree, and made it. The other swam back to the sore. Shortly after this a young man by the name of Cooper swam to the marooned couple, starting from the Biltmore estate office, and threw a rope to the one in the tree. One end of the rope was fastened underneath the girls’ arms and she was pulled away, the waters lapping their hungry lips almost over her form.
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Boat Arrives Soon after this a boat which has been brought from Skyland, and managed by Will Donahoe, Will Nettles and an unknown colored man, left All Souls Church, and by desperate efforts on the part of the three heroes, was brought to the tree. Kathleen was placed in the craft, almost unconscious. The stout boat made a safe journey back and the girl was taken to the Biltmore hospital. How did the tragedy occur? Briefly, this is the story: Miss Charlotte Walker, Miss Marion, and Miss Mabel Foister, left their apartments over one of the stores in Biltmore Village, and went to the residence of Captain Lipe, presumably for clothing. Captain Lipe hesitated as to leaving his home at all. He finally consented to do so. As they left the house, since washed away, and were walking to the stores in the village, the current caught them as they reached Lodge street, and swept all against the tree. From that tree they dropped, one by one, into the current, after looking death in the face for many long and very dreadful hours. During all that time they were plainly seen by thousands on the shores of the little sea, whose current was so swift that it required a stout boat indeed to live in it. The men who attempted their rescue were brave men, and the most frantic efforts were made by them, and others, to save. It was not thought possible that the captain and the women could so long withstand the strength of that current constantly striving to suck them from their frail shelter, and as the strength of the first one, and then another, failed, and death came, the crowds watching so intently shuddered and turned away. It wasn’t natural–it wasn’t right, they unconsciously thought in their minds. Yesterday the village was as usual. Broad streets, quaint houses, beautiful greens, and the familiar red brick wall of the lodge and the estate. Today, the whole world changed. In place of peaceful, ordinary everyday life, a world of chaos. Water sputtering against the foundations of All Souls’ church. The station almost covered with a roaring flood. Down the streets of the village a current so swift that no man might cross it entirely-and-live. And over there on that tree human beings clinging to a frail support that threatened at any moment to be uprooted by the god of waters and cast on the crest of the flood. It wasn’t right, they argued, but was there, all there, before their eyes, but they will not soon forget the sight. Two Escape The five in the tree, with Mrs. Millholland, another daughter of Captain Lipe, and a Mr. Thompson, all left Captain Lipe’s home at the same time. Mrs. Millholland and Mr. Thompson, got safely across Lodge street, were swept against a tree on the Hendersonville road, where they remained until rescued later in the day. Frank Lipe, the son of the dead captain, got within one tree of these two, when he was swept back by the current and forced to return to the banks. This is the story, gathered at infinite pains from many sources. It may not be entirely correct, but it is believed to be as nearly so as is possible to make it. However, that may be the outstanding facts in the tragedy of Biltmore green and the tree of death, planted so long ago by the dead master of Biltmore, are simply these: • That Captain Lipe gave his life to save his daughter, and did save. • That Miss Mabel Foister made every effort to protect the delicate body of Miss Marion Walker from the buffetings of the waters, and might have been saved herself, had she so willed. • That Miss Charlotte Walker, the other trained nurse, used every effort to save her little sister, Miss Marion, and that when she failed, and disappeared, her sister followed her. Their bodies were found close together. They are close together now in that undertaking establishment’s chapel, and will be buried together. • That the efforts made to rescue them all were brave, and heroic, and daring efforts, and that these efforts, made at risk of life, were rewarded by saving of one life alone. So, then, all through the story runs the theme of self-sacrifice, service to others, and a personal heroism, which shall become folklore long after history is forgotten. The Asheville Citizen July 19, 1916
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Hell or High Water By Jennifer West The water rose, The towers died, The mountains smoked, And the hollers cried. Come hell, Come high water, “We will rise,” they screamed. Into the storm, Battered, Bruised, Forgotten and forlorn. Come hell, Come high water, “We will rise,” they wept. Hands forged, Graves dug, Hearts destroyed, Lungs deprived. Came hell, Came high water, “We will rise,” they sang. As the sun, As the dawn, As the day does. Come hell Or high water. P O E T R Y
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Once, concrete carried the weight of wheels, A forgotten road spanning water’s quiet lure and breath. But hands—hands with earth in their veins— Turned stone into bloom, turned passage into pause. They saw what lay before, Yet crafted what could be— Not in defiance of the past, But in reverence. The bridge stood, not of concrete or mortar alone, But of dreams stitched with petals, Of memories buried in soil rich with history. It was a promise, whispered between the land and the sky, with Chimney Rock standing tall in view. When the storm came, Rivers rose, fierce and unforgiving, The stones stripped bare, Yet the land—the land still held them with its gentle lure. For they are not the breaking, They are the builders. The flowers may fall beneath the water's roar, But the spirit of their hands endures. Respecting what came before, They create anew, always, As flowers rise again from roots unseen. Its span was flat, steady as their resolve, Held by arches that echoed the mountains’ grace, with Chimney Rock watching over. It did not reach for the sky— It rested on the earth, like them, And the land remembers, And so do they. The Flowering Bridge
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132 They are the hands and feet, Working tirelessly, day in and day out. They are the hands and feet Of hope, of strength, in the face of doubt. Each day passes in a blink— Blistered hands, waterlogged feet, Climbing high, digging deep, As days blur, turning into weeks. Mountain men, teens side by side, Pouring blood, sweat, and tears back into our land, Finding paths where none once were, Building roads, bridges—hand to hand. Search and rescue turns to recovery, Lives lost—numbers yet unknown. Hands and Feet by Angela Jones Photo by Omer Fichman Hope turns to heartache, As we mourn each soul that has flown. Some lost it all, yet they still show up, Helping those who lost even more. Our strength runs deeper than the divide Some claim our country endures. Donations arrive, filling the gaps, From faraway cities to our mountain towns. Grateful, we sort, stack, and serve, Even as our own hearts drown. We cry for our neighbors, We rise for them, too. Do not be dismayed— We will absolutely pull through
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Photo by Ellen Pfirrmann I told you what was important to me. I think you listened. The source is common to us both. We learned the same stories, in the same rooms, at the same tables. Supplies pulled from the same squeaky cabinets. The same crackling radiators kept us warm. We opened the same windows with those weird circular knobs. We played hide and seek. We dared each other to open the door to the boiler room. We ran away screaming and laughing. We snuck into the office and rang the bell. We knew where the best candy, snacks, and gum were hidden. We breathed in the chalky-smoke, as we placed stars by our names. The same one looked down upon us as we sang our songs, earnestly dedicated our lives, passed the plates – For my beloveds: into which we dropped our offerings, from which we lifted the bread and cup. We rolled down the sloping floors. We ate cookies perched on the ends of our fingers. We walked around with purple mustaches, as we sang in unison for Red Rover to send the next one right over. We were plunged into the same waters, knowing something had changed within us. The words had not quite become our own, yet. We knew others wanted it for us, maybe more than we knew we wanted it for ourselves at the time. It was good. Unaware in that moment, I would live the rest of my life figuring out exactly where that life-filled river would lead me. I stood up, sopping wet, smiling. A little embarrassed. That homesick feeling has never left my soul. I ask out loud again – What is stirring in your soul, out of that very same source? We need to talk soon. By Missy Harris 11/6/24
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134 The Blue Ridge Is Still Blue by Carmen Eckard The floodwaters rose, the wind howled fierce, Families scattered, hearts gripped by fear. But through the terror, through the pain, Our fire endures, like the mountain’s reign. The fire in our feet, the moxy in our hands, We rise, we rebuild—on this sacred land. Our roots run deep as the trees that stand, Together, we rise, together, we mend. We are the knowledge of the old, A people connected, a story retold. But hear me now, and heed the sound— These mountains may seem forever bound, Yet the earth still shifts, the rivers surge, Nature’s balance remains at the verge. We cling to the ridges, trusting their grace, But we must honor this sacred place. For this rainforest, more precious than gold, Is a cradle of life, both fragile and bold. The Blue Ridge stands, yes, strong and true— But it asks of us respect, anew. As we rebuild, we must be wise, Lest we forget what nature provides. For the Blue Ridge is still blue— Steadfast and strong—and so are you. The Blue Ridge is still blue—though the skies split wide, Mountains, older than the bones of time, Held strong in the face of fury— Unshaken by the tempest’s cry. These ridges, they breathe— They know the wind, they’ve kissed the rain. In the silence, in the storm, They grow tall, rooted deep in the earth’s domain. They’ve watched rivers rise— Swell and roar, They’ve bent but never broken, For they are more than stone—they are lore. These mountains hold the tales of old— Of battles fought, and valleys sown, Of those who leaned against their might And found the strength to carry on. They whisper truths in windswept groves, Their myths in every tree that grows. More than rock, they cradle dreams, More than land, they shape our seams. And we, the people born of these hills, We carry grit in our blood—grit like steel. Yet we have known the darkest days, When homes were torn, and skies turned gray.
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