‘A city of heroes’: Helene showed the collective power of Asheville
Editor’s note: The following is the text of Asheville Fire Chief Michael Cayse’s speech at the Oct. 22 candlelight vigil held at Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville to honor those affected by Tropical Storm Helene. Good evening, Asheville. My name is Mike Cayse, I have the pleasure of being the fire chief for this […]
Letter: Vote no to amend state constitution
“The proposed constitutional amendment prohibiting noncitizens from voting provides a purported solution to a problem that does not exist.”
Letter: HCA stepped up for WNC through disaster
“Everyone should applaud how HCA stepped up for our region when we all needed a major medical facility as Helene struck.”
Letter: We’re pulling together at Givens Estates
“All of these staff members are heroes, and we love and appreciate, appreciate, appreciate them!”
My Story: Getting trees off roofs and feeling community support
“I worked from High Point and kept answering phones and coordinating help — finding out which tree crews with cranes were where and getting that information to anyone with a tree on their house.”
Famous last words
Letter: Neighbors’ response restores faith in people
“We were both amazed and appreciative for our neighbors for reaching out to everyone inquiring and sharing of each other’s status and needs, and information on where to find food, water, gas and cell service.”
My Story: Neighbors DIY it to source water for East End/Valley Street
“By Sunday, it became clear that our water infrastructure wasn’t going to improve anytime soon, and our neighbors needed a way to flush their toilets. We decided to gather creek water using buckets and bins from a friend’s property and bring it back for our neighbors.”
Letter: WNC’s hardworking ethos helped after Helene
“Rather than moan and wait on the government, people used their own equipment, their own gasoline and their own sweat to address a serious situation.”
Letter: Together, we’ll overcome Helene’s destruction
“The needs remain massive, but by the grace of God, the response has been immense as well. So grateful for all the first responders and volunteers who inspire and encourage us every day.”
Gimme shelter
Muddy waters
Water levels
Handing over the keys: Xpress sponsors supply run
Xpress recently sponsored a supply run to Mecklenburg County. Distribution coordinator Cindy Kunst got the vehicle ready for Xpress managing editor Thomas Calder, who made the trip.
Letter: We must save ourselves from plastics
“Friends, we must take personal action. The state will not even allow the city/county to ban single-use plastic bags, but we can stop using them.”
Letter: Can we stomach the I-26 ‘Disconnector’?
“Thank you, Mr. Branyon, for informing us about the negative environmental impacts that come with a plan of action for a six-lane freeway expansion. Once again, in the name of growth.”
Letter: UNCA should evolve with new programs
“Build a new curriculum that has application in the workforce, and the students will come. In doing so, the liberal arts education offered at UNCA will not only survive, but it will also thrive.”
Tight fit
Skeleton crew
Letter: Clifford brought veterans comfort and calm
“Clifford was a steady presence in the Veterans Treatment Court (VTC), where he helped many veterans navigate the challenges of returning to civilian life — whether it was coping with the wounds of war or overcoming personal struggles.”