Full Notification

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Honoring Our Heroes: National First Responders Day Tribute to Local Courage and Commitment

On National First Responders Day, we proudly honor the dedication, courage, and selflessness of our local heroes: the firefighters, EMS personnel, law enforcement officers, 911 telecommunicators, and every responder who stands ready to protect and serve our community. From confronting natural disasters like Hurricane Helene to managing daily emergencies, these brave individuals embody resilience and commitment. William Kehler, Director of Emergency Services, remarked, "Our first responders are the heart of our community, answering the call with unwavering courage. They work tirelessly to ensure our safety, often at great personal sacrifice. Today, we recognize not only their bravery but the immense gratitude we owe them." Let us celebrate these heroes, who stand with us through every crisis, making our community a safer, stronger place for all.

Transitioning Community Support: Individualized Assistance Available as Comfort Stations Demobilize

The comfort stations in the Woodlawn and Old Fort communities will be demobilized today, October 28, 2024, following a significant reduction in use as the community progresses in its recovery. Signs are posted at both locations, encouraging any community members who may still have resource needs to contact our office directly. Our commitment to supporting residents remains unwavering, and we will continue working with individuals and families to provide assistance on a more personalized level, ensuring everyone receives the help they need.

Community Partnership Steps Up: Mountain Running Company and Salomon Equip McDowell EMS for Recovery Efforts

McDowell County Emergency Services, in partnership with The Heroes Center, recently provided crucial support to a local veteran whose mobile home was destroyed by Hurricane Helene. The Heroes Center worked to secure a temporary RV, allowing the veteran to leave his hotel and return to the community he calls home. This collaboration underscores the power of partnerships in addressing urgent needs and reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting those most impacted by the storm. We remain dedicated to ensuring that everyone affected has access to the resources they need to rebuild and recover.

Blue Ridge Parkway Closed in North Carolina Due to Extensive Storm Damage

The Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina remains closed from mile post 200.1 at Sunbelt Rd. in Virginia to mile post 469 near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Cherokee, NC, following severe damage from Hurricane Helene. In North Carolina, tens of thousands of downed trees and nearly three dozen rock and mudslides have obstructed roadways and damaged sections of the roadbed. Unauthorized access also hinders recovery, as crews must stop work when individuals are present. Recently, a team in North Carolina had to pause to evacuate an unauthorized visitor who was injured. For everyone’s safety and to support recovery efforts, please respect all closures until the Parkway is safe for public use.

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