Asheville’s Officer Kora Honored Amid Business Struggles

News Summary

Asheville celebrates Officer Kora, a therapy dog recognized for her exceptional service post-Hurricane Helene, while local businesses continue to recover from the storm’s impact. Kora, awarded the 2024 First Responder Paws Therapy Dog Award, has been a source of comfort for first responders and the community. Despite the uplifting news, many Asheville businesses face significant challenges in their recovery from Hurricane Helene, with reports of revenue loss and ongoing financial struggles. Community efforts to support local establishments are encouraged as winter approaches.

Asheville Celebrates Therapy Dog Kora While Businesses Struggle Post-Hurricane Helene

Asheville is buzzing with a mix of heartfelt pride and ongoing concern. At the center of it all is Officer Kora, a charming 3-year-old rescued Goldendoodle who has been making strides in the Asheville Police Department. Recently, Kora snagged the prestigious 2024 First Responder Paws Therapy Dog Award from FHE Health, recognizing her tireless efforts in supporting both the community and first responders in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Kora: A Beacon of Hope

This commendable dog joined the police force in 2023 after completing her training at Highland Canine Training. Kora isn’t just any therapy dog; she is one of only two therapy dogs in the entire Carolinas certified by the U.S. Police Canine Association. With her warm demeanor and vibrant personality, Kora has become a symbol of hope, compassion, and resilience, assisting throughout the storm recovery efforts in September 2023.

Throughout the chaos of Hurricane Helene, Kora stepped up by providing comfort to first responders and crime victims. She enjoys patrolling the streets of downtown Asheville, riding in a flashy cart that sparkles with blue lights and colorful outfits, bringing smiles to those she encounters.

A City in Recovery

While Kora’s achievements are certainly a highlight, many local businesses in Asheville are still trying to find their footing after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc. Several establishments have reported significant struggles in the months since the storm struck. For instance, the beloved 12 Bones Smokehouse, a favorite spot even for former President Obama, lost one of its locations entirely to the storm. The restaurant has had to consolidate operations, laying off 13 employees and cutting hours for its remaining staff. Reports show that 12 Bones has seen revenue drops of between 35-40% since the hurricane, a grim reality shared by several other local businesses.

Heartbreaking Sight and Financial Strain

The co-owner of 12 Bones described the extensive flood damage during the storm as “heartbreaking.” Unfortunately, the story doesn’t stop there. Many Asheville businesses have faced hurdles with insurance claims linked to the storm damages, leading to heightened financial anxiety. The available Small Business Administration loans are currently seen as a last resort, creating an uphill battle for affected businesses eager to recover.

Local lawmakers are stepping in, advocating for increased federal support, expressing the need for grants or relief programs similar to the previous Paycheck Protection Program. Outside of the local business struggles, the famous Biltmore Estate reopened on November 2, 2023, with only minimal damage sustained. However, their operations were not without challenges. They faced furloughs and closures right after the storm and saw attendance plummet to roughly half of what would be expected during the holiday season.

Community’s Call-to-Action

The adjacent Biltmore Village shopping district was not spared from the storm effects. It suffered severe flooding, leaving a trail of closed businesses attempting to get back on their feet. Power outages and flood damage may take up to a year to fully repair, complicating matters further for local shops. Many in the village are still waiting on electricity restoration while reporting sharp revenue losses during October, typically a peak month for tourism.

The good news is that community members have rallied together, encouraging local tourism to help uplift struggling businesses as winter sets in. This collaborative spirit aims to remind everyone that supporting local establishments is crucial during these tough times—and every little bit helps!

As Officer Kora continues her noble work, the residents of Asheville are reminded of the importance of compassion, kindness, and resilience—traits we can all embody as we rally around our cherished local businesses and the furry heroes among us.