The Columbus Lowndes Convention and Visitors Bureau board is short one member after Lester “Pinky” King submitted his letter of resignation on Monday.
King’s resignation, effective today, comes due to health concerns.
“Due to my progressing health issues, I find it more difficult to attend meetings and participate in CVB functions,” King wrote in his letter. “Thank you for all your support and friendship for the past three and a half years. I enjoyed my time on the board and with all of you.”
King, 71, was appointed to the board in 2013. He worked for S&K Doors and Specialty Co. in Starkville before retiring in 2013. He said he will miss serving on the CVB board.
“My term on here has been delightful,” he said. “If there’s been any turmoil, it’s been very, very little. People have been very nice to me.”
CVB Executive Director Nancy Carpenter said King served as a Lowndes County representative, meaning county supervisors must pick his replacement to serve the remainder of his four-year term, which ends Feb. 8, 2018.
Carpenter described King as a “gentleman” and said she’s deeply appreciated his work with the board. King has served as treasurer since his appointment.
“He’s been such a good financial adviser for all of us,” Carpenter said. “He’s kept us accountable and made sure that not only were our finances in great shape, but he was wonderful at planning and doing strategic planning for our finances as far as preparing for the future.”
The board appointed new officers during Monday’s meeting, naming Mark Castleberry the new treasurer. Members also reappointed Dewitt Hicks as board president.
Hicks said he’s enjoyed serving with King and wished him well.
“He’s been a very faithful, commendable member and I think without exception, everybody appreciates his character and the way he’s conducted (being the treasurer) for these years,” Hicks said. “We hate we got his letter. He had some health issues he needs to take care of, and all the best wishes are extended unanimously by the board.”
Alex Holloway was formerly a reporter with The Dispatch.
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