The Town of Vidalia certainly seems to be on a roll. A number of small businesses have made commitments to move to the community, from a Chinese restaurant to a medical clinic to a major chain hotel.

While these are small businesses &045;&045; not the large industry most people associate with the buzzwords &uot;economic development&uot; &045;&045; they can have a great impact on a community and its attitude.

We’re glad to see so many entrepreneurs interested in investing in Vidalia. This is a town which has made great strides over the past few years &045;&045; and the ultimate testament is the riverfront development project, a combination of state and local funds, which is the culmination of a long-term vision.

Perhaps that has been what is key to Vidalia’s success in development in recent years.

Not only do local leaders have a drive to do what’s best for the community, they have had a solid vision and a plan to bring that vision to reality.

As Natchez voters look to make a decision in the upcoming mayoral election, they should pay close attention to which candidates have a solid vision and have a plan to bring that vision to reality, using the aldermen, the city department heads and the people of our community as partners in that vision.

We have great opportunities ahead if we only pay attention to them and seize the moment.