Dee Pridgen

828newsNOW News Editor Dee Pridgen thrives on making sense out of the chaos of a newsroom. She is a graduate of Troy University’s Hall School of Journalism and has more than 35 years’ experience as a reporter and editor.

Community
1 day ago
‘We refuse to give up’: McDowell reflects on Helene recovery

Officials say more than 1.3 million cubic yards of debris have been cleared, nearly 500 homes repaired, 30 rebuilds planned

Crime & Safety
2 days ago
Candler man sentenced to up to 58 years for child sex crimes

Prosecutors say abuse spanned two years; attorney general and sheriff praise multi-agency effort

Crime & Safety
2 days ago
Man arrested after firing gun in downtown Asheville, police say

Officers say no one was hurt after late-night gunfire on Broadway Street

FILE - Debris from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene is seen, Sept. 30, 2024, in Asheville, N.C. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart, File)
Community
2 days ago
One year after Helene, communities gather to heal and remember

Symposiums, concerts and community gatherings mark storm anniversary in Asheville area

The Armstrong State Fish Hatchery in McDowell County has remained closed while crews repair infrastructure and remove debris.
Local
2 days ago
NC trout program hit hard by Tropical Storm Helene

Armstrong facility rises from flood damage, partial operations resume

Community
2 days ago
Asheville unveils $4.75 million design for new Malvern Hills Park pool

Construction set for 2026; reopening targeted for 2028 as city balances safety, cost and community priorities

Betty Wheeler, 56, was last seen around 2:30 a.m. Monday in the area of 1170 Dillingham Road
Crime & Safety
3 days ago
UPDATE: Missing Barnardsville woman found

More than 80 responders using K-9 units and drones to locate 56-year-old Betty Wheeler

Business
3 days ago
Blue Ridge Power to lay off hundreds in Asheville, Fayetteville

Pine Gate Renewables subsidiary cites challenging market conditions and federal policy changes

Road Closed sign
Local
3 days ago
Nighttime I-26 closures scheduled in Henderson County

Westbound lanes between Exit 49 and 44 will be shut from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.; weather may affect schedule

Local
3 days ago
Asheville Fire Department offers disaster kit tips

Firefighters to set up table Wednesday morning to show residents what to include in a 72-hour emergency kit