Dear Friends, Neighbors, and Supporters,
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On Friday, September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina with a force none of us could have imagined. In its wake, it left devastation across our community, and DT’s Blue Ridge Java was not spared. Within moments, 10 feet of floodwater surged through our café, destroying everything we had built over the past 20+ years. The space once filled with laughter, friendships, and the comforting scent of fresh coffee was reduced to debris.
But what followed was not just the story of loss, it became a story of resilience, determination, and the incredible strength of a small-town community. Like so many of our neighbors, we were left reeling, but we were not alone. Spruce Pine showed up in every way imaginable, offering help, love, labor, and hope. That spirit has carried us through every step of this journey.
The Beginning of the Rebuild
In the immediate aftermath, we began the daunting task of damage assessment and cleanup. The support we received from you, our loyal customers, neighbors, and friends, was overwhelming. Donations, encouraging messages, volunteer hours, and generous offers from fellow local businesses kept us going when the road ahead felt impossible.
In those early days, we poured our efforts into foundational repairs: replacing flooring, rebuilding ceilings, restoring the iconic front façade of our historic Wylie Building, and beginning the long process of equipment replacement. At the same time, we launched an updated online store and donation portal to help fund the many expenses ahead, from large commercial appliances to basic operating needs. That support has made all the difference.
DT’s Jr. Java: Staying Connected While We Rebuilt
Thanks to the generosity of our friends at L&L Furniture, we found a temporary home for DT’s Jr. Java inside their Outdoor Center. This small but mighty setup gave us a chance to reconnect with you, serve our community, and keep our team working. We officially reopened there on November 4, 2024, and have cherished every cup poured and every conversation shared.
Though smaller in scale, DT’s Jr. Java has kept our mission alive, fueling the community and reminding us daily of why this rebuild mattered so much.
Turning the Corner: Rebuild Progress Updates
March 2025
We began making visible progress. Concrete was poured, electrical systems were being installed, and interior walls were being framed. Our neighbors at Tree House Realty also began moving forward with their own repairs, bringing renewed energy to the Wylie Building.
April 2025
Plumbing work got underway, and we sourced antique brick to restore the charm of our original façade. Tree House Realty neared completion of their space, with floors, lighting, and doors all coming together.
May 2025
Momentum picked up significantly, plumbing was approved and covered with concrete, front doors and windows were installed, and we started to truly recognize the shape of the new DT’s. Brickwork, electrical, and wall framing moved forward quickly. Hope was becoming tangible.
June 2025
A huge turning point: the plywood came off, and the glass was installed on our front windows. For the first time since the storm, natural light filled the space once again, a deeply emotional and symbolic milestone. Sheetrock went up and the layout of the café began taking shape.
July 2025
Cabinets were installed, trim work continued, and the bathrooms and counters began coming together. Our new front signage and door decals were added, and the HVAC system was installed just in time to beat the summer heat. Each update brought us closer to reopening, and the finish line finally came into view.
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Reopened, Reunited, and So Grateful
As of late August, we are thrilled to share that DT’s Blue Ridge Java is officially reopened - and what a joyful, emotional return it has been. After nearly a year of rebuilding, waiting, and working, we are once again doing what we love: serving our community, one cup at a time.
These past six weeks have reminded us just how much this café means to so many. We've been overwhelmed by your kindness - the familiar faces, the words of encouragement, the quiet moments shared over coffee, and the cheers of “welcome back!” at the counter. Each of you has made this return not just possible, but beautiful.
To everyone who has stopped by, thank you. Your support means more than we can ever say.
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Visit Us - and Keep Supporting Local
If you haven’t had a chance to come by yet, we invite you to stop in and experience the new DT’s Blue Ridge Java. We’re back in the heart of downtown Spruce Pine, where we belong - with fresh brews, expanded offerings, and the same community spirit you’ve always known.
But we also want to say: this recovery is bigger than us. Many of our fellow businesses downtown are still rebuilding, still finding their footing, and still in need of your support.
So when you visit, stay a while. Explore Main Street. Dine local. Shop local. Support the incredible people who make up the fabric of this town - and help share the ongoing story of Appalachia coming back to life.
Together, we’re not just recovering - we’re rebuilding something even stronger.
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With Deepest Gratitude
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in us, for showing up, and for standing by our side through every stage of this journey. We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: DT’s Blue Ridge Java has always been about more than coffee. It’s about connection, comfort, and community.
And thanks to you - we’re home again.
We can't wait to see you soon.
With love and gratitude,
David, Tricia, & Taylor
DT’s Blue Ridge Java