BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Almost a month ago, the remnants of Hurricane Helene roared through the mountains, washing out roads and bridges, destroying homes and businesses and ripping apart families.

In the weeks since, families have buried their dead, crews have begun rebuilding roads and bridges and business owners have taken stock of what was left of their retail establishments.

All of this during what is typically tourist season in Western North Carolina.

“In those first few dark days of the storm, the locals, our Swannanoa Valley neighbors, proved the value of our relationships with each other,” Black Mountain Mayor C. Michael Sobol said in a statement Wednesday.

“Later, kind strangers filled Valley churches and parking lots with supplies we needed. Of course, we are all grateful, and there is no shame in getting help when you need it. But the good people who came from elsewhere to help us will soon go home.”

When that happens, Sobol said, it will be up to local residents to help each other.

“The best way to build back what we knew and loved is to build back local,” Sobol said. “As soon as you are able, get in the habit of supporting your Swannanoa Valley merchants and restaurants who are trying to stay open, or reopen, by buying directly from them instead of relying on free relief goods, or going online or to a restaurant or ‘big box’ store somewhere else. It may cost a little more, but it puts your neighbors back to work. Back to work is what builds us back.”

Buying local is imperative, he said.

“And, if you are able, do something extra. Help Valley merchants and restaurants buy time for things to get back to ‘new normal’ by purchasing a gift certificate, especially if they are offering free food or services,” Sobol said. “You might have to write a check (remember those?) if the card machine doesn’t work. You are putting money in their cash register now when it’s needed most. You can redeem it for yourself or give it away later.”

Sobol also urged people to “be nice to everybody.”

“Be gracious, especially when service is slow. If you are able, tip generously and often, even if it’s free!”