Featured Speaker at the 2025 Henderson County Democratic Convention Preston Blakely is no stranger to Western North Carolina—or to making history. Born in Asheville and raised in Fletcher, Preston's roots run deep in our region. His journey from a young, engaged resident to the Mayor of Fletcher is a testament to the power of community, legacy, and leadership. Blakely earned his B.A. from UNC Greensboro, double majoring in African American & African Diaspora Studies and Polit