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Recovery from Hurricane Helene: Resilience in Haywood County

A Scenic Transformation

As I sit on a bench overlooking the serene waters of Lake Junaluska, surrounded by tranquil scenes of geese gliding effortlessly through the water and fishermen clad in camouflage casting their lines into the gentle rippling waves, it is hard to reconcile this peaceful view with the devastation that struck just over a year ago. Hurricane Helene unleashed destruction upon the water-level communities in Haywood County, North Carolina, leaving scars that seemed insurmountable at the time.

The Spirit of Community

Repairing such widespread damage is no swift endeavor; however, fueled by an unwavering determination that defines community spirit, the towns of Haywood County have demonstrated an extraordinary comeback. Ongoing work to rebuild roads, replace roofs, and relocate businesses to safer elevations has revitalized the area. Restaurants once vacant now buzz with activity, and the vibrant beat of life is starting to pulse through the towns, signaling that restoration and renewal are firmly in sight.

The Experience of Hannah Burnisky

On a fateful early morning on September 27, 2024, Canton, North Carolina, resident Hannah Burnisky woke up to discover her home was without power. Forewarned about an impending storm, she had taken proactive steps to safeguard much of the artwork at her Cold Mountain Art Collective—a space showcasing local artists’ unique creations, including hand-crafted pottery, jewelry, and artisanal soaps.

“The mayor had reached out ahead of the storm, urging me to propel my preparations for the worst,” she recounted. Heeding his advice, she successfully relocated precious artwork, recalling the floods of prior storms that had caused the Pigeon River to surge dangerously high.

However, when she finally accessed her store after the storm’s wrath had subsided, the sight that met her eyes was beyond her worst fears.

“I recorded the water’s peak height here—7 feet, 7 inches inside my building,” she lamented. With a marker indicating previous floods alongside the one from Hurricane Helene, her past experiences echo in the markers she has etched onto her walls.

Ongoing Repairs and Future Precautions

Months passed, and the arduous task of repairing her water-damaged structure began—her kilns, too heavy to relocate, were destroyed. “I’m still trying to salvage two of them,” she shared, her voice a blend of determination and fatigue. Yet, Burnisky is not merely rebuilding—she is fortifying her establishment against future storms, ensuring that art aficionados can safely explore the mountains’ beauty encapsulated in local art.

“It would be naive not to anticipate another flood,” she commented, reflecting on the immense challenges ahead.

The Landscape of Haywood County

Haywood County conceals breathtaking landscapes, with the meandering Pigeon River threading its way through the quaint townships. The largest city—Waynesville—home to over 10,000 residents, features the vibrant Frog Level District, adorned with life and color from its eclectic taverns and quirky boutiques. However, the winds of Hurricane Helene had a different agenda.

While many storefronts were left shuttered in the storm’s aftermath, Frog Level has witnessed a revitalization, with new enterprises such as Astro Records joining resilient icons like Panacea Coffeehouse and Frog Level Brewing, which weathered the storm and emerged stronger.

Soul Sisters Depot: A New Beginning

The day after the hurricane, Chelsea Ramsey and her sister-in-law, Haley, exchanged anxious calls until the storm extinguished all communication lines. “We were completely in the dark about the extent of damage,” Chelsea recounted. A friend finally conveyed the crushing news: “It’s worse than you can ever believe.”

When they entered their shop, a staggering three feet of water welcomed them inside.

Like many others in Frog Level, Soul Sisters Depot has found new refuge on higher ground in downtown Waynesville. Stepping through their door presents an immediate sensory overload, with the rich aroma of patchouli enveloping visitors as they explore a variety of delightful finds—from clothing to unique jewelry pieces and household goods curated by these determined soul sisters.

“Our previous tagline was that we were the ‘red-headed stepchild’ of Main Street Waynesville,” Haley remembered. “But now, we feel deeply entrenched in the essence of downtown.”

The Funky Fern’s Resilience

The same spirit of resilience prevails at The Funky Fern, a beloved shop known for its eclectic home décor and vintage apparel. After losing its initial location in Frog Level, the store is now firmly established in a safer, secure downtown locale.

Kristyn Lodice, another affected shop owner, expressed her desperation during the storm when she had no means to contact her business partner, Carrie. “The last call I received was from friends at Soul Sisters Depot, who were sobbing and told me, ‘It’s all gone.’”

Remarkably, in less than a year, The Funky Fern has regained its footing, filled with the distinctive charm that has always defined it. “We’ve found a good home here,” Kristyn remarked, relieved to be away from any risks of flooding.

Revitalization of Local Businesses

Haywood County’s allure for outdoor enthusiasts, with its beautiful trails, birdwatching spots, and breathtaking waterfalls, remains undiminished following the hurricane. Hotels, vacation rentals, inns, and charming bed-and-breakfasts, such as the Andon-Reid Inn, are all operational and eager to welcome guests, signifying a robust narrative of resilience in the face of adversity.

“This year has been a complete turnaround from this time last year,” declared Brenda Beznoska, co-owner of the inn alongside her husband Peter, who serves as the in-house chef.

“Since Hurricane Helene, the small businesses of Haywood County have reemerged with remarkable tenacity, bolstered by our devoted mountain community, generous grants, and overwhelming local support,” shared Corrina Ruffieux, the executive director of Visit Haywood.

The Role of AI legalese decoder

In situations like these, understanding legal language can be daunting for those affected by natural disasters. This is where tools like AI legalese decoder can offer invaluable support. By simplifying complex legal jargon into easily digestible content, AI legalese decoder enhances accessibility to critical information regarding insurance claims, business recovery, and applying for grants.

Such clarity can empower local entrepreneurs and residents, providing them with the knowledge they need to navigate the legal landscapes created in the aftermath of such devastating events. The choice to support local businesses and aid in their ongoing recovery becomes an informed decision, thanks to the assistance of AI technology.

Community Call to Action

As Haywood County continues its journey toward recovery, the call to support local businesses grows. “The best way to support them now is to visit, shop local, and be an active part of their ongoing recovery,” Corrina added poignantly.

Each visit and every purchase can help solidify the foundation of resilience established through adversity. Together, the community can flourish once more.

For further insights, contact Anne Braly at [email protected].

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