About Me
“I am a farmer, and I care about people”!
Ann Rose has been an active part of the Ashe county community since 1996. In her time here, Ann spent 18 years as a home-care nurse, going from house to house providing assistance to those in our community that were unable to travel. Experiencing life here through the lense of a healthcare worker allowed her to become intimately familiar with the needs of our citizens. Even though she left her nursing career behind in 2008 to focus on farming full time, the imprint of her time as a healthcare professional has never left her, and continues to drive her passion for providing access to quality care and nutrition to the people of Ashe county.
Ann has been farming full time since 2008, selling her produce at the Ashe County Farmers Market for the past thirteen years, founding the Lansing farmers market three years ago, and leading classes and workshops in our community to help teach people food preservation and cultivation skills. The importance of nutrition and access to healthy foods is ever present in her work, and inspires Ann to continue the hard labor filled life that comes with being a farmer to promote a more sustainable and self-sufficient way of life.
Outside of her participation in and passion for local agriculture, Ann has been an integral part of Ashe County’s development in cultural and beautification projects to provide our residents with more avenues for personal growth and enjoyment. As a project manager and grant writer for GLAD(Greater Lansing Area Development) Ann brought in 1.5 million dollars in state and federal grants to fund the creation of the Lansing Park, and oversaw its planning and development. The Lansing Park is now a destination for fisherman, loving dog owners, runners, and strollers alike, and hosts many local events. Ann was also the founder and project manager for the Lost Province Cultural Arts Center non profit organization which hosts many wonderful art classes and events for our residents.
Ann Rose has been a positive influence on this community for the past twenty eight years, and has accomplished so much through her grit and determination. By running for a seat on the Ashe County Board of Commissioners, Ann hopes to be in a more influential position to put in the work and push for change to better the lives of our citizens.
As she always says, “If you need something done, ask a busy person”!
I am a farmer, and I care about people!
If you need something done, ask a busy person!
What I see as our issues
Ladies and gentlemen, residents of Ashe County,
Thank you for joining me today as I stand before you as a candidate for Ashe County Commissioner. My commitment to our community is rooted in the values that define us – values centered around women's health, environmental sustainability, access to healthy food, equality, and fiscal transparency.
1. Women's Health: Our community deserves comprehensive healthcare department. We deserve healthcare free from political interference that addresses the unique needs of women. I will advocate for accessible and affordable healthcare services that encompass preventive care, reproductive health, and mental well-being. We must take the politicians out of women's healthcare and allow the woman to decide what is best for the woman. We must ensure that every woman in Ashe County has the resources and support she needs to make informed decisions about her health.
2. Environment: Our breathtaking natural surroundings are part of what makes Ashe County special. I pledge to protect our environment and natural resources. This includes supporting initiatives for clean air and water, public green space and trails, and sustainable development. By fostering a healthy environment, we not only preserve the beauty of our home but also promote the well-being of our residents.
3. Healthy Food Access: Access to nutritious and affordable food is fundamental to the well-being of our community. I will work towards creating partnerships with local farmers and schools to ensure that Ashe County residents, including children, have access to fresh, locally sourced, and healthy food options. This not only supports our local economy but also promotes a healthier lifestyle for all.
4. Equality: In Ashe County, we pride ourselves on being a community that values diversity and inclusivity. I am committed to promoting equality for all residents, regardless of gender, race, or background. This includes working towards fair and equitable policies in education, employment, and community development to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.
5. Fiscal Transparency: As your commissioner, I will prioritize fiscal transparency. Our community deserves to know how taxpayer dollars are being spent. I will advocate for open and accountable oversight committee for spending tax dollars, making sure that residents have access to clear information about how their money is being utilized. By fostering transparency, we can build trust and ensure that our county's resources are used wisely and efficiently. I will fight to increase subsidized childcare so working parents of preschool children can gain jobs or keep their jobs.
In conclusion, I am running for Ashe County Commissioner because I believe in a future where our community thrives on the principles of health, equality, and transparency. Together, we can build a county that is not only economically prosperous but also socially and environmentally sustainable.
Thank you for your support, and I look forward to working together to make Ashe County an even better place to call home