Written by Abby Hassler
Abby Hassler
Abby is a digital storyteller who grew up in East Tennessee and joined the communications team in December 2024. Before coming to Appalachian Voices, she spent ten years in strategic communications, academia and journalism. Recent roles include the Director of Creative Strategy of a strategic communications firm focused on clean energy, clean tech and economic development, and Executive Producer of a podcast about clean energy news in Tennessee.
Overwhelming opposition to MVP Southgate submitted to federal agency
On March 11, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission closed an intervention period in the federal docket for the proposed Southgate pipeline project. Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC, the developer of the Southgate pipeline, is seeking approval to dramatically alter its original 2018 design, changing the route and increasing the pipe diameter and capacity for the project. Although community members asked for more time for review, only a 21-day intervention period was offered.
Helene’s lingering toll on Appalachian businesses
Once Hurricane Helene’s flood waters receded and the rebuilding process began, many small business owners were left unsure about their next steps.
