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.

An American flag stands next to a sign written on housing debris along the Swannanoa River, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, in Swannanoa, N.C. Swannanoa was one of several communities in western North Carolina that was severely affected by Hurricane Helene. (AP Photo/Kathy Kmonicek)
Business
5 months ago
Shops, tourism return to Black Mountain and Swannanoa after Helene

Nearly a year later, businesses, volunteers and residents continue to drive recovery, chamber director says

Community
5 months ago
Candlelight ceremony in Swannanoa marks Helene anniversary

‘This day a year ago was one we all wish we could take back.’ — Swannanoa Fire Chief AJ Penland

Assistant Fire Chief Jeremy Knighton
Local
5 months ago
Asheville fire official reflects on Helene response

Assistant fire chief details planning, strategic deployment, 250-plus rescues, community support and lessons learned

Rustic Ritual Beauty
Business
5 months ago
Asheville salon owner reopens in South Slope

Rustic Ritual Beauty rises from Helene’s devastation with community support and a new location

Traffic along Interstate 40 on Friday provided an apt backdrop as Gov. Josh Stein and a host of state and federal officials marked Helene’s one-year anniversary.
Local
5 months ago
Roar of trucks on I-40 signals resilience one year after Helene

State, federal officials highlight recovery in Western North Carolina during visit to Pigeon River Gorge

Local
5 months ago
NOAA releases ‘story map’ of Helene’s destruction

Interactive resource combines photos, videos and data to trace storm’s impact from Florida to Western North Carolina

Community
5 months ago
Volunteers prepare 720 backpacks for Asheville area children

Bank of America, Feed the Children team up to support families still recovering from Helene

Local
5 months ago
WNC leaders call for reforms as Helene recovery drags

With federal aid slowed, legislators propose state action to speed buyouts, strengthen resilience

Asheville Museum of Science
Arts & Culture
5 months ago
Asheville museum marks Helene anniversary with free admission

Asheville Museum of Science invites WNC families to reflect, grieve and celebrate resilience through the Our Changing World exhibit

Ciano Damone Kimble
Crime & Safety
5 months ago
Man arrested after firing shots at Asheville motel

Police recover multiple firearms and narcotics during investigation

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