Gretna merchant group president steps down

By: John Crane | GoDanRiver
Published: January 16, 2012

The president of the Merchants Association of Gretna has stepped down.

Paula Wilbourne departed from the position Jan. 1 after announcing her intention during the organization’s annual banquet in December.

Wilbourne cited additional job responsibilities at her employer, Mecklenberg Electric Cooperative in Gretna, as a reason why she stepped down. Also, the association’s presidency needs a new person to occupy its position, said Wilbourne, who was president for two years.

During an interview Monday, Wilbourne praised the nonprofit’s efforts and contributions to the town of Gretna. The organization has about 45 members listed on its website, gretnamerchants.org. Membership is open to businesses and individuals outside Gretna, she said.

“This group puts their heart and soul into it,” said Wilbourne. “It’s a wonderful group. I encourage anybody to participate with this group.”

The group plans and organizes events in Gretna, including the annual bluegrass festival — with support from the town and Revitalization for a Greater Gretna — that took place in July. The event has been moved up to May this year to coincide with a Memorial Day parade and will feature a variety of music, Wilbourne said.

The association is also behind the Old Timers Jubilee in October and the annual Christmas parade.

Wilbourne pointed out the association’s accomplishments during her tenure as president, including creation of its website in 2010 and partnering with Revitalization for a Greater Gretna to replace Gretna’s old sign at its southern entrance from U.S. 29.

Also, attendance at the bluegrass festival tripled in 2010 from the year before. The group also offers the $500 Martha Cardwell scholarship, awarded to a student from Gretna High School each year.

The association will also elect its vice president, treasurer and secretary during its meeting in February.