A cowboy hat, a chainsaw, and a heart for neighbors—that’s the unlikely recipe that helped a mountain town rebuild after devastating floods. We spotlight “Cowboy Joe,” a Wyoming native who passed through Chimney Rock, fell in love with the community, and never left. Working alongside Spokes of Hope, he’s hauled debris, rebuilt roofs, reopened storefronts, coordinated Amish volunteers, and stacked more than 30 cords of firewood so families stay warm this winter. His voice is steady, his mission clear: follow the need, assemble the crew, and do the next right thing.
We dig into the realities of long-term recovery: families still displaced, homes that can’t be rebuilt, and the race against colder nights. Joe shares a new mission to Tennessee, where grandparents raising grandchildren lack basic utilities—proof that service doesn’t stop at county lines. You’ll hear exactly how to get free firewood through Chief Steve Freeman in Bat Cave, where to volunteer or donate via Spokes of Hope, and what kinds of skills and supplies make the biggest difference on the ground.
We also zoom out to a trend reshaping our region: environmental refugees. Western North Carolina continues to attract households escaping hurricanes, fires, and rising risk elsewhere. Even after last year’s extreme event, our area remains comparatively mild and resilient. We close with a clear-eyed real estate snapshot—moderating rates, steady demand, tight inventory, and average prices still in the 530s—plus practical guidance for anyone navigating a move tied to life changes.
Ready to help or need a hand? Reach us at 828-393-0134 or visit realestatebygreg.com. Subscribe, share this story with a friend, and leave a review to help more neighbors find the resources and hope they need.