RENO, Nev. (AP) - The Reno-Sparks chapter of the NAACP has elected its first non-black president in the chapter's 66 year history.

Longtime Reno attorney Jeffrey Blanck was to be sworn in Thursday night. He succeeds Lonnie Feemster, who has served four, non-consecutive two-year terms as head of the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Blanck previously served as the organization's second vice president and legal redress chairman.

Blanck says he's proud that the group's leadership and membership reflects the rich diversity of the community and the nation.

Blanck's legal practice focuses on discrimination, education and civil rights law.

Feemster will continue to serve on the group's executive committee and as Nevada state director for the NAACP National Voter Fund.

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