A vibrant discussion about agriculture and community support took center stage at the Ashe County Commission meeting on July 21, 2025. Commissioners highlighted the importance of the new AgCenter, emphasizing its potential as a valuable resource for local youth and agricultural education.

Commissioner Jerry passionately recalled his childhood experiences with farming, noting how many young people today are disconnected from the origins of their food. "Kids nowadays think that food comes from the grocery store. They don't know that it comes out of the dirt," he stated, underscoring the need for educational initiatives that bridge this gap.

The AgCenter was praised as a significant asset for the county, with Commissioner Russell echoing Jerry's sentiments. He expressed optimism about the facility's role in fostering agricultural knowledge among young residents. "It's a really nice facility and gonna be a great asset to the county and the young people here," he said.

In addition to agricultural discussions, the commissioners addressed ongoing recovery efforts from recent storms and hurricanes. They urged community members to look out for neighbors in need, especially as winter approaches. "A lot of people still have too much pride to ask for help," Russell noted, encouraging residents to offer assistance and check for available resources.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to leveraging the AgCenter for community benefit and a reminder to support those still facing challenges in the wake of natural disasters. The commissioners expressed hope for a collaborative effort to enhance agricultural education and community resilience in Ashe County.