DDA Begins New Year With New Leader

Retired telecommunications executive Ed Knight is the new chairperson of the Downtown Development Association for 2009, succeeding Businesswoman Joyce Blackley, who is stepping down due to term limits.

Vice President of Design Jeme Avent will stay on the job another year as will Vice President of Economic Restructuring Leslie Hubbard, Vice President of Organization Betsy Grannis and Vice President of Promotion Lyn Austin.

Secretary Beth Williams will be leaving the board in January. Joining the board next month will be Richard Ralright, Michael Sims and Boo Carver

Knight, a Clayton resident for eight years, said he is "very excited and optimistic about the future of downtown Clayton."

"We have a good board with some new members bringing new perspectives to the mix," Knight said.

Blackley, winner of this years "NC Main Street Champion" award, is a longtime advocate for downtown. She has been a member of the Association since 1988 and chairperson since 2006.