Christine Robinson
Heroes Among Us: The Cajun Navy 2016’s Impact on Disaster Relief
The Cajun Navy 2016, a volunteer-led disaster response organization, has been a beacon of hope during some of America’s most challenging natural disasters, including Helene. “We’re not here for titles or recognition,” explained Robert Pearson, VP. “We’re here to help people.” Their mission has evolved from basic search-and-rescue operations to a comprehensive relief effort that includes clearing debris, delivering supplies, and providing shelter.
Restoring Biltmore Village: The Corner Kitchen
The Corner Kitchen Restaurant, devastated by the flooding from Helene, hopes to reopen on Easter Sunday with a celebratory brunch, but there are many challenges to overcome. The sister restaurant, Chestnut, is open for business and hoping our community will come out for the holidays.
Asheville Symphony Presents Handel’s Messiah with Pay What You Can Tickets and Thanksgiving Food Drive
The Asheville Symphony is back with Handel's "Messiah" for the holidays, with Grammy award winning artists. In this first concert since Helene, the symphony is offering 200 Pay What You Can tickets, free tickets for first responders, and is hosting a food drive to refill the larders of the First Baptist Church so they can offer Thanksgiving dinner to those in need.
JW Bell Creates Pop-Up Shop Like Days of Yore
JW Bell men's clothier and Palm Village, signature store for Lilly Pulitzer, were able to save their inventories before the ravages of the Helene flood, and are making their products available just in time for Thanksgiving and Christmas in a special pop-up shop. Check them out at the Historic Biltmore School.
Mucking Out Marshall: The Road to Recovery
Marshall, NC lost its history and heart during tropical storm Helene, but it hasn't lost its Soul. Clean up and restoration has been ongoing since the day after the storm, working to salvage what's left of the town. Its heart came back with the many volunteers and military members helping to rebuild.
Don’t Forget Us! A Plea from Rollins NC
Although Marshall and Rollins community are closed to everyone but residents, Tribune writer Christine Robinson was invited to meet the local people and hear their stories. They have a common concern, that they will be forgotten with attention on Asheville and other areas.
How Neglected Infrastructure and Storm Helene Expose Critical Election Issues
With the future of Asheville's water system and financial integrity on the line, voting is more important than ever, however, it's been estimated that up to 10,000 people will not be able to vote in Buncombe County due to being displaced or not having the capability to get to their polling places.
3 Carolina Firefighters Lose Lives in Tropical Storm Helene Rescue Efforts
The tragic loss of three firefighters—Tony Garrison, Landon Cale Bodie, and Chief Chad Satcher—while aiding victims of Tropical Storm Helene highlights their bravery and dedication, leaving a lasting legacy of selflessness and service amidst the devastation caused by the storm.
Emergency Shelter for Linemen: Supporting Duke Power in Crisis
An amazing, temporary village of portable disaster shelters has been set up at the old Sears Parking lot at the Asheville Mall to give linemen from all other the U.S. and Canada a place to rest and get cleaned up. Duke Power has a command post there as well.
Spreading Hope: A Fun Event to Raise Domestic Violence Awareness
Want to help raise awareness in a fun and impactful way? Come to the Blue Ridge Beer Garden on October 4th for Music, Games, Raffles and a costume contest. Help families to find hope.