After Tropical Storm Helene, Asheville restaurants faced financial strain with low tourism and decreased local spending. Many adapted by offering affordable menus, diversifying revenue and focusing on community support.
Author: Justin McGuire
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Updates on WNC parks projects delayed by Helene
Major recreation projects in Black Mountain, Hendersonville and Woodfin got delayed by Tropical Storm Helene. Where do they stand seven months later?
Environmentalists say federal policies put forests at further risk
A crowd of about 150 people attended a forum designed to educate community members about nonprofits that focus on public resources, land and wildlife, especially given recent federal policies that could pose long-term challenges.
Firehouse Hub coalition to guide long-term recovery in Barnardsville
A coalition of people in Buncombe County’s rural Barnardsville community is looking at ways to help the area’s long-term recovery from Tropical Storm Helene.
Despite McCormick Field construction, Tourists ready to play ball
The Asheville Tourists will host 66 home games during the 2025 season while McCormick Field is undergoing major renovations. The teams says it’s ready to meet the challenge.
Buncombe County libraries adjust to life under Helene-related hiring freeze
Six Buncombe County libraries are operating fewer days than normal because of a hiring freeze. Officials say the changes are just temporary.
Asheville teen named to USA Paralympic National Swim Team
T.C. Roberson High School junior Emma Roberts recently was named to the USA Paralympic National Swim Team just months after her first Para swimming competition.
New photography book documents Black experiences in Appalachia
Chris Aluka Berry’s book of photographs explores the sometimes hidden world of Black people in Western North Carolina and other parts of Appalachia.
Basketball star Henry Logan broke barriers, conquered demons in legendary life
Asheville’s Henry Logan started the integration of college basketball in the South when he went to Western Carolina College in 1964. A new book looks at the legacy of the pioneering player.
Check out these five great winter hikes in Western North Carolina
For our Wellness Issue, we asked folks in Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Madison and Transylvania counties to identify one great winter hike from their area.
Five Points residents rally to preserve wooded area owned by UNCA
Residents of Asheville’s Five Points neighborhood are rallying to preserve a nearby wooded area owned by UNC Asheville. The university says it has made no decisions about developing the area.
Around the Region: Holiday sales give some small-town merchants reason for hope going into 2025
The holiday shopping season was a huge success from some small-town merchants still reeling for the effects of Tropical Storm Helene. And even those who had less success said local shoppers made a huge difference.
Donors step up to support Give!Local in record numbers
Give!Local raised more than $337,000 — plus more than $112,000 in matching grants — for 52 area nonprofits in 2024. That was a big increase from 2023.
Helene will have long-lasting effect on animal-adoption agencies
From a decrease in adoptions to an increased need for emergency veterinary care, Tropical Storm Helene’s impact will continue in 2025 for animal shelters.
Western North Carolina mayors reflect on tumultuous 2024
WNC mayors weigh in on the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene and other issues that shaped 2024 — and take a look ahead to 2025.
Student documents Christ School history in new book
Grey Edens, a Christ School senior from Charlotte, recently self-published a history of the Arden school based on a year of research.
Destroyed athletic facilities leave local sports leagues searching for new homes
Flood waters from Tropical Storm Helene decimated many of the City of Asheville’s premier outdoor athletic facilities, and officials don’t know when — or if — they will be repaired and restored.
Asheville businesses pick up the pieces post-Helene
Asheville business owners dealing with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene have a simple message for local customers: We’re still here, and we need your support.
Xpress seeks student writing and art for 2025 Kids Issues
Attention, local kids and teens: Who or what inspires you? What is the most inspirational thing you experienced in the last year? Who is your hero? Once you have an idea, it’s time to get creative, then share your work for possible publication in Xpress’ Kids Issues! The theme for 2025 is “Who or what inspires […]
New Soil & Water supervisor talks Helene recovery
Blair Thompson is joining the Buncombe Soil & Water Conservation District board at a time when its work is in the public mind due to Tropical Storm Helene.
Nonprofit groups address fundraising, volunteer challenges in wake of Helene
Many local nonprofits are facing challenges as money and volunteer hours pour into groups with a more direct role in storm recovery efforts. These groups are trying to address the issue in creative ways, including reaching out to donors and volunteers outside WNC for help.
