HODGES – For the first time in 50 years, the president of a major national organization will be making a stop in Franklin County.

Jim Porter, president of the National Rifle Association (NRA) will be in the area this Friday to meet with the public and to serve as the grand marshal of the Rock Bridge Canyon Rodeo.

Porter, who was named president of the NRA in May, is visiting the area after Rep. Johnny Mack Morrow extended the invitation to serve as the rodeo’s grand marshal.

“Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park has become one of the premier tourist attractions in North Alabama, and in my opinion, throughout the state,” Morrow said.

“The rodeo they are hosting this weekend is a big event for the park, and I thought it would be great to have a special guest serve as the grand marshal.”

The rodeo kicks off at 7:30 p.m. Friday at RBCEP in Hodges. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m.

But Morrow said for those who would like to meet and talk to Porter before the rodeo, Morrow will be hosting a reception for Porter at Cypress Cove Farm on Friday from 2-4 p.m.

“This is a great honor to have the NRA president in Franklin County,” Morrow said.

“The last time Alabama hosted the president of the NRA was back in 1961 when Jim’s father, Irvine Porter, served as NRA president.

“We knew that there would be many NRA members and community members who would like to meet Jim, so I just want to invite the public to come out to this event as well as to the rodeo.

“It is rare to have someone of this caliber to visit our county, and I hope our residents will take advantage of this great opportunity.”