This week with Elon News Network

Security and fire safety report shows increase in substance violations at Elon University, candidates differ on budget plans at ABSS Board of Education candidate forum and Gibsonville hosts second annual chalk walk.

Anjolina Fantaroni | Staff Photographer

Hurricane Helene leaves mark on Western North Carolina, recovery efforts underway

Anjolina Fantaroni

Western North Carolina is picking up its pieces following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which swept through the region in a 500-mile-wide path Sept. 27. The Category 4 hurricane left over 292,000 people without power and caused severe property damage. According to the Associated Press, the death toll has reached 200. Asheville, Boone, Canton, Lake Lure, and Rutherford Counties experienced extreme flooding from the French Broad River — with water levels rising over 20 feet. The flooding caused water to run through many buildings, including Asheville Community Movement Gymnastics. Co-owner Rebecca Hall said that the flooding lifted up the flooring of the gymnasium.

Alamance County Board of Commissioners candidates prioritize lowering taxes, funding education

Avery Sloan 

Avery Sloan | Staff Photographer

The six candidates running for Alamance County's Board of Commissioners spoke at a forum held Oct. 1 at the Paramount Theater in Burlington. The board has six commissioners, with three seats open at this election. Two candidates, Democrat Pamela Tyler Thompson and Republican John Paisley Jr., are running for reelection and Democrat Carissa Graves, Democrat Chris Smith, Democrat Anthony Pierce and Republican Ed Priola are looking for a seat. The forum was hosted by Impact Alamance, Alamance Chamber and Elon University with support from the city of Burlington and Elon News Network.