“Asheville is an amazing place for local independent businesses because we have a culture that supports it,” says Lucas. “We need to continue to support, nurture and protect it.”
![](https://mountainx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/S-Lucas-Color-1-330x213.jpg)
“Asheville is an amazing place for local independent businesses because we have a culture that supports it,” says Lucas. “We need to continue to support, nurture and protect it.”
After 12 years helming the Asheville Grown Business Alliance, founder Franzi Charen is stepping aside. Her role will go to Sherree Lucas, who has served on the alliance’s steering committee for two years.