A former elected official recounts the true story of a small town that descended into anti-government chaos. This cautionary tale explores how to strengthen democracy by tuning in to local government. With humor and real-world examples, Dr. Pearson walks the audience through her step-by-step civic engagement model. In a time of political polarization and tribalism, this talk is a non-partisan primer on wielding the power of people to be good neighbors and good citizens.