Some couples broke under the pressure of the storm. Others found something solid and surprising in each other.

One year ago, Western North Carolina was pummeled by Hurricane Helene, claiming 108 lives, displacing families and leaving behind millions of cubic yards of debris that will cost billions to clean up.
The scars from Helene may be slowly healing, but many people are still working to rebuild their homes, livelihoods and sense of normalcy.
One year later, Blue Ridge Public Radio has been talking to community members about their experiences, what issues rose to the top and where we stand today.
The scars from Helene may be slowly healing, but many people are still working to rebuild their homes, livelihoods and sense of normalcy.
One year later, Blue Ridge Public Radio has been talking to community members about their experiences, what issues rose to the top and where we stand today.
Helene Recovery
Politics & Government
Climate & Environment
Growth & Development
Arts & Culture
State headlines
National headlines
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They're framing it as a way to share data and messages about threats, emergency preparedness and public health policy at a time when the federal government isn't doing its job in public health.
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A Supreme Court case over Louisiana's congressional map could determine the future of Voting Rights Act protections against racial discrimination and allow Republicans to draw 19 more House seats.
More local stories
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The state assembly passed a provision that freezes around $12 million in annual legal aid funds. No one will explain why they did it.
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A new summer career camp in Western North Carolina gives high schoolers and recent grads a one‑week, hands‑on tour of local jobs — from rolling pasta to exploring treetop courses.
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AdventHealth is holding listening sessions in Western North Carolina as the health care provider prepares to apply for a Certificate of Need for more acute care beds.
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Federal cuts and Helene have dealt a blow, but research could restart next year.
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Severe damage from Helene led engineers to declare the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge beyond repair, but volunteers say the garden’s legacy will live on.
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Officials say the risk to the general public remains low as Jackson and Macon counties investigate possible exposure.
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