[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 12664]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


    CONGRATULATING THE TOWN OF SPRUCE PINE FOR REACHING THEIR 100TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

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                           HON. MARK MEADOWS

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 30, 2013

  Mr. MEADOWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the town of 
Spruce Pine for reaching their 100th anniversary. Nestled between the 
majestic peaks of Mt. Mitchell and Roan Mountain, the flourishing 
Appalachian town of Spruce Pine boasts all the natural beauty of the 
North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains.
   Spruce Pine's story began at the turn of the century when a single 
house was erected near the Carolina, Clinchfield, and Ohio Railroad 
Depot. Situated between river and mountainside, the town grew quickly, 
became chartered in 1913, quadrupled in population, and soon became the 
commercial center of the Toe River Valley.
   Growth continued as mining emerged in the economic anchor of the 
Spruce Pine community. Best known for its incredibly rich mineral 
deposits, Spruce Pine boasts the most concentrated feldspar deposits on 
earth. This geological wonder is responsible for 60 percent of the 
total United States feldspar, which is used in ceramics, paints, 
electrical wiring devices, tile, fiberglass insulation, and glass 
containers.
   In a way, most everyone east of the Mississippi has been impacted by 
goods originated from Spruce Pine. In addition, Spruce Pine is home to 
the entire world supply of the pure quartz used in manufacturing fused 
quartz apparatuses. This fused quartz is used to manufacture the 
semiconductors found in every computer. To own a computer is to have a 
connection to Spruce Pine.
   Spruce Pine is also home to a proud farming population and one of 
the world's largest art communities. The Toe River Arts Council, which 
has worked in Spruce Pine for the last 37 years, ensures a legacy of 
handmade mountain artwork that will continue for many future 
generations.
   Mr. Speaker, it is with great satisfaction that I recognize the town 
of Spruce Pine and congratulate a truly exceptional 100 years. Its 
contributions to our culture and industry have been remarkable. I 
couldn't be more proud to represent such an exemplary town, such warm 
people, and such a beautiful part of North Carolina.

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