Mebane on the Mic

AutumnFest is back for its 17th year! On this episode of Mebane on the Mic, we’re getting to know the people and passion behind one of Mebane’s favorite fall traditions.
Kelli Potter, owner of SolGarden and a member of the Events Committee for the Downtown Mebane Development Corporation (DMDC), and Nicole Harkins, Marketing & Events Coordinator for the DMDC, join us to talk about how AutumnFest has evolved, what goes on behind the scenes to bring the event to life, what attendees can expect, and what keeps people coming back year after year.
Whether you’re a longtime AutumnFest fan or have never attended before, tune in for everything you need to know before heading downtown for this year’s celebration! 🍁

Keeping the public safe is one of the Mebane Police Department's highest priorities. On this episode of Mebane on the Mic, Police Chief Mitch McKinney and Traffic Officer Bryan Dempsey discuss how the department works to protect the community through education, outreach, and proactive policing.
The conversation highlights the upcoming Traffic Safety for New Drivers program, where attendees will learn valuable driving safety tips for both new and experienced drivers. Chief McKinney and Officer Dempsey also discuss the importance of community policing, responsible gun safety, and how residents can partner with the Police Department to help make Mebane a safer place to live, work, and play.
Whether you're a new driver, a parent, or simply interested in learning more about public safety, this episode is packed with practical information and insight from the officers who proudly serve our #PositivelyCharming community every day.

Summer evenings are even better in downtown Mebane!
In this episode of Mebane on the Mic, we're joined by Sarah Williams, Executive Director of the Downtown Mebane Development Corporation (DMDC), and Peyton Rice Fuqua, the DMDC Secretary, to talk about the return of Downtown at Dusk.
Learn how this popular summer event series brings the community together while supporting local businesses, explore what's planned for this summer, and hear what visitors can expect when they experience Downtown at Dusk.
Tune in to discover why Downtown at Dusk is the perfect place to shop, dine, connect with neighbors, and make lasting summer memories in downtown Mebane!

In this episode of Mebane on the Mic, we sit down with Hall of Fame founder Dean Ray, Recreation and Parks Director Aaron Davis, and Recreation Superintendent Kris Kloepping to discuss the history, purpose, and lasting impact of the Mebane Sports Hall of Fame.
The conversation explores how the Hall of Fame got started and why preserving Mebane’s rich athletic history is so important to the community. Dean shares personal reflections and memorable moments from the Hall’s journey, while Aaron and Kris provide insight into this year’s induction ceremony and what attendees can expect as Mebane honors the athletes, coaches, teams, and community members who helped shape its sports legacy.
Whether you’re a longtime sports fan, former athlete, or simply proud to call Mebane home, this episode sheds light on how our community celebrates the stories, traditions, and spirit that continue to connect generations through sports.
If you would like to purchase tickets to the 2026 Sports Hall of Fame Induction Gala, please visit the City of Mebane Sports Hall of Fame webpage.

The Downtown Mebane Development Corporation—now known as DMDC—has a new Executive Director leading the charge!
From the four pillars of the Main Street program to how they’re shaping downtown Mebane’s vision and future, meet Sarah Williams. She joins Kelly in the studio to discuss DMDC’s short- and long-term goals, what’s next for downtown, how you can get involved, and upcoming events in May.
To learn more or get involved, visit the DMDC website, sign up for the weekly newsletter, or email info@visitdowntownmebane.com.

Who’s ready for the longest-running street festival in Alamance County? The 38th Annual Mebane Dogwood Festival is back and better than ever!
From exciting new attractions and rides to expanded vendors and live performances, this is the can’t-miss event of spring.
Joining us in the studio are Mebane Business Association President Valerie Beausoleil and Administrator Claudia Clemente. We’re talking all things Dogwood Festival—from changes to the usual schedule to one-of-a-kind auction items and more. Don’t miss this inside scoop before the festival arrives!
For more information, visit Mebane Dogwood Festival.

Calling all soccer fans! The MYSA Spring Shootout Tournament is back—and this year, it’s bigger than ever. Find out what that means for the Mebane community and when all the action is happening. From game-day excitement to off-the-field activities and more, the MYSA Spring Shootout is a jam-packed weekend of fun! Not sure what MYSA stands for? No worries—we cover it all with Taylor Saxe, Executive Director of MYSA.
 
For more information about MYSA, visit https://www.mebaneyouthsoccer.com/.

The North Carolina Railroad has served as a powerful engine of growth—fueling early industry, shaping small towns, and continuing to drive opportunity across the state today. But what role does the railroad play in the hustle and bustle of modern life?
Tune in as we sit down with Donald Arant, Vice President of Engineering for the North Carolina Railroad Company, to explore the origins of rail in North Carolina, how its purpose has evolved to meet today’s needs, and the key challenges facing rail infrastructure.
You’ll also learn more about the rail lines serving North Carolina and upcoming improvements along key interchanges designed to increase efficiency and support future growth.

Mebane's first music festival is almost here! Join Hook & Line Committee Members Larry Vellani and Maurice Evans as they share their connection to Odell and Joe Thompson and reveal the story behind this year's first-ever two-day music festival. From panel discussions and art galleries to line dancing, live performances by Rhiannon Giddens and Justin Robinson of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, and even a cooking contest, this episode covers everything festival-goers can expect. Tune in and get ready to experience the sounds, stories, and surprises that will make this event unforgettable!
 
For more information and a rundown of events, visit Hook & Line—The Thompson Music & Arts Heritage Festival website.

Join us for a deep dive with Kyle Smith, Public Utilities Director for the City of Mebane, as he walks us through the crisis and recovery from Tropical Storm Chantal. Kyle explains how the storm flooded the plant, the damage caused, and the major repairs needed. He also shares where the plant stands today and what steps are being taken to ensure the Graham-Mebane Water Treatment Plant remains operational for future storms.
 
If you would like to learn more about Mebane's Water Shortage Response Plan, visit City of Mebane Water Response.