I want to start off this editor’s note by wishing our entire community a heartfelt thank you for the compassion I have seen so far for those affected by Hurricane Helene in the western Carolina region.
I found out about the truly devastating effects of the storm this past Friday when I was scrolling on Facebook of all things and saw a photo of my hometown Boone, NC underwater.
I immediately contacted my family in the area, and while we are so blessed to be able to report that everyone was dry and safe (although without power, internet or water) unfortunately, not everyone can say the same.
On Monday, Sept. 30 I woke up to no less than six emails in my inbox asking for me to help the Journal get the word out about multiple outreach operations that were being organized. That evening I was on a Zoom call with local business owners, nonprofit leaders and more organizing an article on the various donation spots and volunteer requests which, at the time of this issue’s printing, volunteers with the donations should be ready to head out on Friday, Oct. 4.
While I am incredibly thankful to our local organizations for their help, given the time tables and when this issue will be released, I’d like to give a spotlight to organizations based in the affected areas:
As you enjoy this issue, please take a moment to be thankful that most of our areas remain safe.
Happy reading!
This is the first year of the Veteran Business Expo, and it grew out of Fayetteville PWC’s Economic Impact Program, which focuses on expanding access and opportunity in public-sector contracting while strengthening the local economy. It builds off th
Lynlene Apiary and Crafts is owned and operated by mother-daughter duo Carolyn Kleinert and Jolene Kleinert. They are certified apiarists and sell honey, candles made with beeswax, soaps and other crafts at local farmers markets. Photos by GFBJ.Lynle
Big T’s has been a local favorite of Hope Mills since 2000 when Timmy (Big T) and Donna Gray first opened right on Hope Mills Lake. It is a seasonal restaurant, so many of Big T’s loyal customers were happy to hear they would now be open year-round, seven days a week.
