MNJ Photo/Mariel Williams. While traffic on the streets of downtown Spruce Pine is slower these days many small businesses are finding ways to rebound in the wake of destruction. The Market on Oak has opened its doors to four small businesses: Treasures in the Pines, Spruce Pine Florist, HairCraft, and Treehouse Realty. L&L Furniture Company cleared space for D.T.’s Java Jr. in their lawn and garden furniture showroom. Spruce Pine businesses are showing that the business community is stronger when together
Submitted photo. From left, Finance Officer Crystal Young, retiring Town Manager Darlene Butler and Parks and Recreation Director Michael Wood pose at Butler’s retirement reception.
MNJ Photo/Mariel Williams. Mitchell County Manager Allen Cook speaks at a town hall meeting in Bakersville.
Submitted photo. The new warehouse of MANNA Foodbank is located in Mills River in Henderson County. The previous facility in Buncombe County was destroyed in Tropical Storm Helene.
MNJ Photo/Mariel Williams. Mitchell Medics honored four employees recently for their efforts to save a teenager in a medical crisis the morning Hurricane Helene knocked out communications in Mitchell County. From left are Dr. Gabriel Cade of Blue Ridge Regional Medical Center, patient Devon Hughes, and Mitchell Medics staffers Alex Brown, Jared Stickle and Evan Stern, holding Millicent Stern.
MNJ photo/Sarah Atkins. The Mitchell Middle and High School Bands perform Christmas songs for friends and family.