The collective sigh of relief heard Tuesday was the acknowledgment that the last piece of Natchez-Adams County’s economic development puzzle fell in place.

With the hiring of new Natchez Inc. executive director Chandler Russ, the uncertainty over our area’s economic future became a little clearer.

The business community has jelled together more in the last 12 months than it has in at least two decades and the public and private partnership of Natchez Inc. appears to be marching into the future with a surety of purpose and a common vision for growth.

That’s a welcome sight, as was the familiar face of native son Russ, who has made a great name for himself in the economic development world.

Russ will start work next month, but we would all be wise to remember, economic development is not an individual sport.

Our community cannot kick back, relax and wait for Russ to reel in a pile of jobs. We hope and expect that to happen, but he’s going to need all of our help.

And “our” isn’t just citizens of Natchez and Adams County. For our region to truly grow and improve, we’re going to need to continue working together whenever and however possible.

What’s good for one part of our community is good for all parts. We’re a team.

Russ’ impending arrival is great news, but it’s only the beginning of the work ahead of our community.

Working together, though, anything is possible and we look forward to Russ leading the team to economic victory.