We Are Mitchell

Sibelco and the Sibelco Spruce Pine Foundation - Jac Fourie

Like everyone else in our region, Sibelco, one of the main producers of High Purity Quartz in the world, had to scramble to recover business operations and help the area get back on its feet. Jac Fourie, Executive Vice-President Operations High Purity Quartz and South America, is our guest on this episode. He discusses how Sibelco responded to emergency situations in the community following the storm, providing manpower and materials to assist in roadbuilding and other projects; the first months of recovery for their business; and the Sibelco Spruce Pine Foundation, which is providing businesses and individuals with financial assistance to recover from the storm. To learn more, visit www.sibelcosprucepinefoundation.org.

Forest Recovery Workshop - Brandon Pitman

Over 800,000 acres of timberland in Western North Carolina have been destroyed or adversely affected by Helene. Now comes the cleanup. Mitchell County Cooperative Extension is offering a special program to anyone with timber on their property to learn about programs to help clean up and manage these resources. Brandon Pitman, County Extension Director, joins us to talk about the Forest Recovery Workshop scheduled for Wednesday, May 14 at the old Bowman Middle School in Bakersville from 1 to 4 p.m. The workshop is free and open to all, but Brandon asks that you register to come by calling (828) 688-4811 this week to sign up.

The Orchard at Altapass - Beth Hilton and Sam McKinney

The Orchard at Altapass not only survived Helene, it is preparing to open for the 2025 season. On this episode, Beth Hilton, Executive Director and Sam McKinney, the Mission and Sustainability Manager join us today to talk about the damage the storm brought to the farm, how they worked over the winter to recover, and the 2025 season of “The Good Stuff” they will be sharing with visitors this summer.

Public Vegetation Disposal Site - Allen Cook

Mitchell County has announced a location for county residents to haul to and dispose of vegetative debris from their property. County Manager Allen Cook joins us to talk about the new disposal site, which is the Wade Tipton Field on Cane Creek Road in Bakersville. It is open seven days a week, 8 AM to 6 PM. If you need more information or have questions, please contact the Post-Helene Communication Center at 828-537-1441 (phone or text message) or by email at restore@mitchellcountync.gov.

Barbecue Fundraiser and Benefit Concert at Mitchell High - Angie Holtzclaw

Mitchell High visual and performing arts students are holding two events April 26 to raise money for projects. A barbecue dinner is taking place from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., providing a way for students to raise money for their trip to New York City later this year. At 7:00, the Duane Melton Band with John Stallings as Johnny Cash takes the stage for a benefit concert to raise money to provide heating resources to Mitchell County residents. Angie Holtzclaw, English and Theatre teacher at Mitchell High School, joins us to tell about these events and how you can support them.

What is the MARC? - Lisy Thomas

Mitchell County now has a one-stop location for help with Helene Recovery. The new Multi-Agency Resources Center (MARC) is the name for the old Bowman Middle School in Bakersville, and it has services to help most any recovery issue from Helene. Lisy Thomas, a member of the Long-Term Resiliency Group, joins us to talk about the MARC and how it brings options and opportunities for residents to get help. Plus, she talks about a special event May 10 from 10 AM to 2 PM where you can come learn more about the MARC and the agencies providing services through it.

Firefighter Appreciation Day - Stephanie Pitman and Brian Brewer

May 3, 2025 has been declared Firefighter Appreciation Day in Mitchell County. Stephanie Pitman of the Volunteer Resources Center and Brian Brewer, Mitchell County Assistant Fire Marshal and member of the Bakersville Volunteer Fire Department join us to discuss the upcoming recognition and what life has been like for firefighters since September 27, 2024 and Helene‘s visit.

Spruce Pine Alien Festival Returns - Sherry Sautner

The 4th Spruce Pine Alien Festival is returning this June. Sherry Sautner, festival organizer, joins us to talk about it and the decision to return after the devastation of Helene.