Helen Chickering

1 month ago | bpr.org | Helen Chickering

A new historical novel is drawing attention to a little-known post-Civil War community that once thrived in the mountains near Hendersonville. Happy Land, by Dolen Perkins-Valdez, is based on the real story of a settlement founded by formerly enslaved people in the 1870s. The Kingdom of the Happy Land was located along the North Carolina-South Carolina border. Its founders came from Cross Anchor, S.C., pooling their resources to buy land and build a self-sustaining community.

1 month ago | bpr.org | Helen Chickering

Today, April 7, is the final day for North Carolinians with uninsured damage or loss from Hurricane Helene to apply for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The agency has been involved in disaster recovery efforts across North Carolina since the storm struck in September 2024, providing aid for temporary housing, home repairs or replacement, and repairs to private roads and bridges. Applications must be submitted by the end of the day.

1 month ago | wunc.org | Helen Chickering

A key corridor in Asheville is back in service as of Friday afternoon, as Swannanoa River Road (N.C. 81) reopened between Biltmore Avenue and Bleachery Boulevard. The reopening follows six months of cleanup, restoration and construction after Hurricane Helene flooded the Swannanoa River and destroyed much more than just the road itself. The corridor was heavily damaged — including water lines, traffic signals, overhead cables and other infrastructure.

1 month ago | bpr.org | Helen Chickering

As his first 100 days in office come to a close, Stein talks about rebuilding, federal aid, and the long road ahead after Helene. Next week marks 100 days in office for North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein. In an interview with BPR, Stein said much of his early focus has been on helping Western North Carolina recover from Hurricane Helene and preparing the region for the growing risk of wildfires. Below are excerpts from Host Helen Chickering’s conversation with Stein.

1 month ago | bpr.org | Helen Chickering |Jose Sandoval

This afternoon, Buncombe County officials warned residents of a small fire in the area. "Currently, there is a 2 acre wildfire in the Dix Creek / Leicester area of Buncombe County," the statement said. "Crews are on scene and the public is asked to avoid the area."Because of dry conditions and high winds, residents are asked to remain vigilant in fire prevention. A statewide burn ban remains in effect. For emergency alerts in Buncombe County, text BCAlert to 99411.