The first episode of On the Blue Ridge focuses on host Jon Page’s account of the aftermath of Hurricane Helene near his home south of Asheville, North Carolina.

In late September, the hurricane tore a devastating path across the Southeast. The worst of its damage struck Western North Carolina, where a combination of severe flooding, powerful wind, and landslides ravaged communities and towns. Lives were lost, homes and businesses were swept away, and roads crumbled under the surging floodwaters. In the aftermath, widespread outages of power, water, and cellular service added to the region’s suffering. Some communities were inaccessible by road, shut off from aid for days.

Guests include Jon’s family members, including his parents, Bob and Judy Page; his sister and brother-in-law, Lauri and John Palko; his son, Lincoln; daughter, Eliza; and wife, Carie Page.

Looking to support relief efforts? Here are a few good places to start:

The Asheville Citizen-Times has an extensive list of ways to help and how to donate here:

https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2024/10/02/asheville-nc-flooding-how-to-help-helene-relief-efforts-in-western-nc/75472474007/

So does Blue Ridge Outdoors:

https://www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/news/how-to-help-those-affected-by-hurricane-helene/

You can also help rebuild Lincoln’s school here:

https://givebutter.com/fernleafccs