SPRUCE PINE – The popular Spruce Pine Alien Conference & Expo, or SPACE Festival, is under new leadership. Founder and operator of nonprofit business association 28777 (Two Eight Triple Seven) Christy Hemenway has taken over the festival after Jimmy Hinshaw said he was unable to organize it again this year.
Hemenway, who moved to Mitchell county from Maine two years ago, is “energized and excited” to take on the event.
The main components of the festival will stay the same, Hemenway said. She is, however, hoping to add more attractions, such as a comic book convention at the Cross Street Center, trips to the Bare Dark Sky Observatory, an “ET 5K” run and more.
She is also aiming to improve the shuttle system to be more efficient and inclusive.
Hemenway founded 28777 this past fall with the idea of creating a business association that not only served downtown Spruce Pine but also everything within the zip code.
The festival is scheduled for one day this year, which is Saturday, June 27, but if the coronavirus threat is still present, it may be rescheduled.