At its annual meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 11, the Logan Economic Alliance for Development began the new year by electing new officers to provide leadership to the organization known as LEAD.

Elected by acclamation were: President-Randy Fuqua, Publisher/General Manager of the News-Democrat & Leader; First Vice President-Mark Wilkins, Russellville district manager of Pennyrile Rural Electric Cooperative; Second Vice President-Gene Zick, Russellville city councilman; Secretary-John Ferris, retired businessman; Treasurer-Mike Riley, president of Riley-Burchett Realty & Auction Co.

While Fuqua, Ferris, and Riley are returning as LEAD officers, Wilkins and Zick are new additions to the Alliance's executive committee.

“You just can't beat a leadership team like this,” stated LEAD Executive Director Jody Lassiter. “Our organization will enjoy the benefits of experience from the successful return of three veterans, plus the fresh perspective and enthusiasm of two new officers. I look forward to working closely with LEAD's new leaders to continue our steady progress into what promises to be an active and exciting new year ahead for our community.”

Former President Jay Slaton, who did not seek re-election to the LEAD Board of Directors, was honored at the annual meeting by a unanimous resolution of the Board commending him for his service as president of the organization from 2003 to 2005.

Mark Wetton, president of Pro-Fab Metals, Inc., of Russellville, was also formally seated as LEAD's newest director at the meeting after his recent election to the board.

LEAD's other directors are William “Bill” S. Johnson, business development representative of First Southern National Bank; Paula Ezell, owner/broker of RE/MAX Realty Team; Judge-Executive John H. Guion III; Harris Dockins, magistrate, Logan County Fiscal Court; Shirlee Yassney, mayor of Russellville; Jim Wilkerson, mayor of Adairville; Dewey Roche, mayor of Auburn; and Ken Whitson, mayor of Lewisburg.