MEDINA, Ohio — It’s been a little more than three months since Hurricane Helene tore apart the lives of so many.
In some areas, roads and businesses remain closed, and some families lost everything.
It's easy to see why celebrating the holidays wasn't a priority this year, but one town in Ohio is hoping to add a little holiday magic into their lives
Mark Klaus, owner of Castle Noel – the year-round Christmas attraction, is spearheading a weekend to remember for those whose lives were impacted by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in September 2024.
Over 250 people who will be bussed in from Asheville, North Carolina, will get a complete weekend experience. “It’s like Christmas without the stress. You’re all done with all the stuff you have to do,” Klaus said. Many businesses in North Carolina remain closed due broken sewer and power lines. Roads and bridges in some parts are completely destroyed. “Basically, every business is supported and survives on the tourism and trade that is completely shut down until hopefully this summer when we can reopen on a limited basis. Even then that going to take several years to recover,” said Peter O’Leary, mayor of Chimney Rock Village, a town just east of Asheville. The City of Medina will again be holding its Christmas parade on Jan. 11 complete with fireworks. Anyone is welcome to join in on the celebrations and give a warm welcome to those who may have lost more than just a Christmas holiday. “This is a mental health break, really. Have you ever had a rough time, and you just need to get away? Just having some separation from this because these folks are going to be busy with this all year and for a long time after this,” Klaus said. He said he hopes the families are able to take something home with them, too. “Maybe when they go home they’ll have the energy they need. The sprit will rub off on other people,” he said. All expenses for the weekend, including meals and lodging, will be completely covered. To make a donation, click here.
|