GERRI WILLIS: This Christmas, I keep thinking about family, friends in western NC. America should, too

Two months after Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina, causing $53 billion in destruction and claiming over 100 lives, the recovery efforts are ongoing. Despite private organizations like church groups and Samaritan’s Purse stepping in to help, there is criticism towards the federal government for not doing more. The town of Spruce Pine, crucial for mining super pure quartz essential for modern technology, faces hundreds of millions of dollars in restoration costs, including replacing the water treatment plant.

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