The lights are on. We have cell service. There’s potable water coming from the tap. And most of the roads are passable. Life has returned to normal in Western North Carolina, right? No, it hasn’t. The region’s economy is a long way from what it needs to be.
Even if they acknowledge that fact, too many of the folks who live here are sitting back and waiting for those usually badmouthed tourists to show up and open their wallets. It’s our responsibility, too.
Use one of those passable roads to drive into downtown Asheville to patronize a restaurant or brewery. Go to Swannanoa or Marshall and spend a few bucks in one of the hardest-hit towns. Make your way to Brevard or Waynesville or Black Mountain and patronize the local businesses…