I am writing to endorse Patricia Jones “PJ” Ricks, a candidate for Salisbury City Council.

PJ and I served together on the Salisbury Planning Board for four or five years.  I came to admire her ability to consider all sides of an issue and her willingness to appreciate the input of others.  She was born in Salisbury and graduated from Livingstone College.

She began teaching at South Rowan High School, but spent the bulk of her teaching career with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg system. She was ultimately a substance abuse counselor.

Upon retirement she returned to her Salisbury roots. My Sunday school class at First Presbyterian began a collaboration with her church, Crown in Glory Lutheran Church, that we later named Conversations in Faith that remains active today after three years.

The intent of the program is to address the racial divide in Salisbury.

Our conversations have covered things like bias, institutional racism, the statue Fame, immigration and many other topics.

PJ grew up with the guidance of Wiley Lash as her godfather, so public service comes naturally to her.  I encourage your support and vote.

— Carl Repsher

Salisbury