Residents in Ashe County, North Carolina, have raised crucial questions about the power of public voices in shaping local policies. Through debates and community engagement, they seek substantial influence on government decisions that affect their daily lives, highlighting the importance of grassroots democracy.

With nearly half of Ashe County’s residents facing steep energy bills, Ashe Library is stepping in to help. Persistent financial hardships, worsened by Hurricane Helene, have left many households in substandard conditions—but a new initiative offers hope for relief.