As newcomers flocked to Asheville over the last fifty years, they joined with locals to breathe new energy into the city. Sometimes called the Asheville One Thousand, these folks didn't necessarily intend to be entrepreneurs, community organizers and business leaders, but when they saw a challenge, they rose to it. Stone Soup became a gathering place and laid the foundation for Asheville's natural food culture. MANNA Food Bank emerged to help solve hunger. And the River Arts District turned into a vibrant cultural center for upcoming artists. Join author Marilyn Ball as she traces the bonds of community that gave rise to Asheville today.
Marilyn Ball is an advertising executive and writer with over twenty-five years of experience in Western North Carolina hospitality, economic development and tourism. She has published articles in many local publications including Sun Magazine, WNC Woman and Verve Magazine. Marilyn Ball moved to Asheville in 1977 and has been working to foster a spirit of community there ever since.