Born and bred right here in Woodstock, Ashley Frasca knows this town like the back of her hand. As a dear friend and mentee of “The Georgia Gardener” Walter Reeves, she thrives on sharing useful information with her community. After many years as Reeves’ right-hand woman, she is thrilled to take the helm of the Green and Growing radio show on Saturday mornings. Whether using her green thumb to coach people on their backyard camellias and the like, or reporting a traffic jam along I-575, she uses her 14 years in radio to embrace every opportunity to inform her listeners with what she learns.
How does being a radio personality help you connect with your community?
Ashley Frasca: As I see it, our roles are to inform, educate and entertain; in that order. It’s an honor to serve the community I grew up in, and I never thought I’d have the confidence or knowledge to host my own show. But thankfully, in 14 years of radio, I’ve made some incredible friends and supporters along the way!
What aspects of Reeves’ legacy do you hope to carry on?
AF: I used to joke with my boss that Walter’s loyal listeners would be at the gates of WSB with pitchforks and torches, wondering who I was! Thankfully, they’ve embraced and encouraged me. The best compliment I’ve received is when a caller said to me “Thank you, Ms. Walter!” Walter’s support of me came through the radio for the eight years I helped produce his show. All the while, he was preparing me, and I had no idea! I’m grateful to him and to so many others for encouraging me to add my own flavor to Green and Growing.
How do you stay inspired about gardening?
AF: In 2023, I finally (and proudly) became a certified Cherokee County Master Gardener, an arm of the University of Georgia Extension that serves the communities we live in. The garden community helps me stay informed and inspired, and I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without them!
What do you love most about Woodstock?
AF: I grew up here, and my husband and I have made our home together here as well, sharing many memories downtown. I’ll always remember being in Girl Scouts and participating in the Christmas Parade. My wedding took place at the community center, next to the formerly historic Magnolia Thomas Restaurant. Plus, I’m finally slowing down enough to appreciate the rich art community here.
Where are some of your favorite local hangouts around town?
AF: We enjoy dinner at Reel, margaritas on the rooftop at Pure Taqueria and bringing our Great Dane, Shadow, to Reformation Brewery (where she once met actor Stephen Baldwin)!
