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Final day as director will be December 31

 

TRYON—Michelle Newman, the current director of the Tryon Downtown Development Association, recently announced that she is stepping down from that position. 

At the Tryon Town Council meeting on Tuesday, December 19, Newman announced that her last day as director would be December 31. 

Newman has held the title of director for just over a year, her first day being October 31, 2022. 

She will be working with TDDA officially through the end of the year and is still organizing the Tryon Midnight celebration on New Year’s Eve.

Newman says she is leaving the position to expand her freelance work in digital communications, marketing and public relations, and plans on being involved in the town as a community member and volunteer.

“I’m proud of the work we’ve done over the past year, with new businesses coming to town and multiple events every month to bring locals and visitors downtown,” said Newman. 

“I am appreciative of the town leadership, and especially the TDDA board, for their support. I believe that Tryon is at a critical moment to prepare ourselves for the next decade, and I hope there will be a groundswell of community involvement to position us to take advantage of the opportunities that are heading our way.”

At the meeting, council members expressed their appreciation for Newman’s service. 

“Thank you, Michelle, you’ve done a wonderful job,” said Councilwoman Chrelle Booker. 

“We’re going to miss you, Michelle. Thank you for your hard work,” added Councilman Bill Ingham. 

The next step for the TDDA is the hiring of an interim director. The position is currently listed on the town’s website at tryon-nc.com

Town Manager Jim Fatland reported at the meeting that the town has already received “half a dozen” applications for the new position, and there are plans to hold a joint panel for interviews.