Canary turns ATA over to Graves

Graves, whose second term as governor of Kansas ended Monday, was sworn in as Canary's replacement yesterday.

Canary replaced Walter B. McCormick Jr. when he left in July 2001 to head the United States Telephony Assn. He had the interim tag lifted from his title three months later, with the understanding that Graves would take over when his term in office ended.

"Leaving an organization is never easy, but I feel good about the man taking my place," Canary said of Graves. "He understands the challenges that lie ahead, and he is more than ready to successfully deal with them."

Graves said yesterday that Canary would remain with ATA as an advisor, at least through the group's Winter Leadership Meeting next month. He added that Steve Brooks would remain as chief of staff.