High Country

The arts have always been integral to the Appalachian experience. Helene led to a pause in much of the area’s creative output. But six months later, many artists are back at work and incorporating the tragedy into their projects.

In the second installment of "With Grace and Grit: A mountain community responds to Helene," Paul Garber reports on Lansing’s Bridge to Recovery. The nonprofit was launched post-Helene to help restore vital spans that are not maintained by the state.

A few decades ago, the High Country town of Lansing was a struggling former train stop. But this century, it has seen a revival, thanks to new residents and businesses.  Then, Helene washed away much of the progress. Six months after the storm, Lansing is again looking to make a comeback.

North Carolina produces about one in five Christmas trees sold in the U.S., including the 20-foot Fraser fir chosen to grace the White House this year. Local sellers say this season’s crop is good despite the impact of Helene. But some in the industry worry about Christmases yet to come.

Voters in the Piedmont and High Country share their thoughts on the role and responsibilities of the media with WFDD reporters David Ford and DJ Simmons. Topping the list are honesty, impartiality, and conveying just the facts.

With the 2024 presidential race this close just days before November 5, it is likely that undecided voters will decide the outcome. WFDD's David Ford and DJ Simmons spoke with several of them across six counties in the Piedmont and High Country to find out why they remain on the fence.