Among the candidates in Saturday’s Concordia Parish primary are residents who hold multiple college degrees, have varied business talents and varied levels of experience in politics and government.

In short, we’re in for an interesting mix on the parish police jury once the election season is over.

It is good to see so many people involved in this year’s election process &045;&045; and their ideas deserve voters’ attention.

Concordia Parish is in a unique situation. Still held back in many ways by economic and geographic realities, the parish is nevertheless on sound financial footing, with optimism spreading from the work on the Vidalia riverfront to the efforts of Ferriday leaders to attract industry and revitalize the town.

On Saturday voters have a chance to select folks who will help join that forward-thinking leadership &045;&045; as well as address the continuing issues of the parish, from economic development to drainage.

We hope voters will take a close look at the candidates in each district, as well as the statewide candidates and the sheriff’s candidates, and choose wisely. Elections are not about voting for your buddy; they are about voting for the right person for the position.

We are electing leaders for the future of our parish and our state, and it’s an awesome responsibility.