Written by Abby Hassler
Abby Hassler
Abby is a digital storyteller who grew up in East Tennessee and joined the communications team in December 2024. Before coming to Appalachian Voices, she spent ten years in strategic communications, academia and journalism. Recent roles include the Director of Creative Strategy of a strategic communications firm focused on clean energy, clean tech and economic development, and Executive Producer of a podcast about clean energy news in Tennessee.
Helene’s lingering toll on Appalachian businesses
Once Hurricane Helene’s flood waters receded and the rebuilding process began, many small business owners were left unsure about their next steps.

