Dear Editor:
It is now official. Rick Neighbors has announced his resignation as Chair of the Franklin Democratic Party. I had no idea that almost seven years ago when I met Rick Neighbors that I was shaking hands with one of the best friends that I would ever have. There are few people in this world that cross all the t’s and dots all the i’s but Rick does. He is one of a few breed who is a decent, honest and genuine human being.
I met Rick when I was working in his campaign for the House of Representatives. This campaign was so different from the many I had been involved in before. It was during this campaign that other great things happened in my life as well. I met another person who has turned out to be one of my best friends, Lisa Ward. She was Rick’s campaign manager and is still today one of the hardest working people I know.
I was involved in two more campaigns after that first one and to this day I will always regret that Rick did not win that election. What a different District 4 we would be living in if he had defeated Robert Aderholt.
Rick is a Veteran and did three tours in Vietnam. I asked him why three times and he said “Because that is where I was needed.” That is who Rick is. He is married to Judy, the love of his life and devoted to his family. He is so proud of those grandbabies!
I have enjoyed sharing the hundreds of conversations over the years and look forward to many more. Rick has always contributed his best to everything that he does. He has worked endlessly in promoting the Democratic Party.
On behalf of the Marion County Democratic Party we wish him the very best in his new adventures. The sky is the limit my friend!! Go for it!!! We love you, Rick!
Lynda Kirkpatrick
Marion County Democratic Party Chair
House District 17 State Democratic Executive Committee Alabama Democratic Party
Member of Alabama Democratic County Chairs Association