Our hearts are with the families and communities in our beloved North Carolina mountains, who have been devastated by this catastrophic hurricane.

These towns, which have always been a source of pride and inspiration for us all, now face a long and difficult path to recovering. Our October issue — traditionally a celebration of the mountains — now serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that is needed in this challenging time.

We're especially grateful for the dedication of emergency personnel, first responders, and volunteers who are on the ground, helping in any way they can. We suggest reaching out to these relief and recovery organizations that need our help, including:

• American Red Cross: 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word "HELENE" to 90999 to make a $10 donation; redcross.org
• North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund – Helene
• Emergency Disaster Services of The Salvation Army
• Feeding the Carolinas
• Samaritan's Purse Disaster Relief

Other media organizations in North Carolina have also offered suggestions:

• Blue Ridge Public Radio
• The Asheville Citizen Times
• WFAE

In addition, check with your local churches and community organizations to see how they are assisting with relief efforts.

North Carolinians pull together. And we pull through. This week, and in the weeks to come, we're preparing for the fight ahead.

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Before becoming an award-winning author, Ron Rash tended the cemetery near his family's Watauga County farm. His latest novel, inspired by that burial ground, explores the relationship between the living and the dead, and how those who've gone are never forgotten.

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Join The New York Times best-selling author and North Carolina native Wiley Cash as he highlights great writers across the state and their work each month. Listen in on conversations between Cash and his author friends as they discuss how North Carolina inspires them on the Our State Book Club podcast.