Cooper, Eric Church visit Banner Elk to update Helene recovery [Video]

BANNER ELK, N.C. — Gov. Roy Cooper returned to western North Carolina on Thursday to announce the return of tourism to the area following Hurricane Helene. 

Cooper and residents in the mountains touched on how quickly the turnaround was for the area, with several people thanking Cooper and other leaders for their support in the aftermath of Helene. They’re hopeful for what’s to come. 

“People are welcome here,” Charlie Brady said. “Businesses need their support.”

Meanwhile, residents are looking forward to a new reality post-Helene. 

“The mountains are strong,” Margaret Newbold said. “The people here are strong and everyone has come together to help.” 

Cooper was joined by country singer Eric Churchin Banner Elk. Church, an Appalachian State graduate, shared how significant the mountains are to him personally and why he felt compelled to …