Tune in here to this ​Friday's edition of Breaking With Brett Jensen!

Breaking Brett Jensen kicks the show off by talking about the shocking state of Lake Lure, North Carolina, and the extensive recovery efforts still underway nearly a year after Hurricane Helene. Broadcasting live from Black Mountain, NC, Brett describes how the lake has been intentionally drained 28 feet — the lowest in its history — to remove over a million tons of debris.

Jensen interviews Lake Lure Town Manager Olivia Stewman, who shares that while the water is testing normal, the lake was rendered unusable without the cleanup. She estimates full restoration by May 2026. Brett then travels through Chimney Rock and Bat Cave, noting the ongoing devastation and slow rebuilding efforts.

Jensen is joined by longtime Broad River resident Bo Reising to discuss the ongoing struggles facing the community nearly a year after Hurricane HelenJensen sits down with Reising on his front porch to reflect on the slow recovery process. Reising speaks candidly about the emotional and financial toll the storm has taken -- from losing hay fields and reliable roads to watching neighbors, including his niece, struggle to rebuild their lives. He also details the fading presence of state and federal aid and the overwhelming burden placed on local residents. Despite it all, Reising remains committed to helping his community

Jensen is also joined by Richard, a 15-year veteran of the Broad River Volunteer Fire Department, to discuss the lasting impact of Hurricane Helene on first responders and their community one year later.Richard reflects on how the storm strengthened community bonds, with neighbors stepping up to help one another in true mountain fashion.

He also highlights the critical equipment donations they’ve received, including a brush truck from the Charlotte Fire Department and a fire engine from upstate New York, which helped replace vehicles lost in the flood. As they prepare to reopen a rebuilt community center on the anniversary of the storm, Richard urges people outside the region not to forget the mountains—they still need help.

Listen here for all of this and more on Breaking With Brett Jensen.

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