Help Revive Chimney Rock Family Legacy Business

My name is J. Meliski, fourth-generation owner of the Chimney Sweeps and Mountain Traders gift shops in Chimney Rock Village. These historic buildings, and pillars of the Village, have been decimated due to Hurricane Helene, much like all the small businesses in the area. My stores have been in operation for more than 50 years within my family, with the buildings dating back to the inception of the Village in the late 1920s. My grandfather, Joe Meliski, opened Mountain Traders in 1973, continuing a previous business from his family. My parents, Buck and Barbara Meliski, opened Chimney Sweeps in 1975, and operated both stores successfully until 2011, when I was fortunate enough to be able to continue the family legacy in Chimney Rock Village. More than just a business, these buildings and iconic stores were my childhood home and job. Devastating is the only word I can use to describe this situation, a feeling shared by every small-business owner, and those like myself who were raised in the Village.

Sifting through the mud-encrusted remains of these once-thriving small businesses, the realization that all cleaning and rebuilding costs necessary to bring my shops back to life will largely be borne completely by my family and me. Insurance is denying any claim, and State/Federal assistance for business owners is minimal to non-existent.

With the goal of rebuilding and moving forward, any contribution to my efforts is appreciated more than you will ever know. Every dollar raised will go directly toward the extensive restoration of my family's legacy and ensuring that Chimney Rock Village is once again the thriving mountain hideaway I grew up in. On behalf of my family, dedicated staff, and all citizens and affected bushiness owners in the Village, thank you.

With gratitude,

J. Meliski