The Selma Times-Journal

Sen. Richard Shelby will be in town Saturday making his annual county visit.

The public is encouraged to join Shelby at a Dutch-treat lunch at the Bearden Cafeteria located at Craig Field. Shelby will be discussing his legislative agenda for the 110th Congress as well as important issues facing the nation, state and county. Following his speech, the floor will be open to questions and comment from the public.

Mayor James Perkins Jr., Probate Judge Kim Ballard and EDA Executive Director Wayne Vardaman plan to attend the luncheon and plan to discuss “projects of concern” with Shelby.

Ballard spoke highly of Shelby, saying that the senator has helped Dallas County secure grants and aided in other projects that have helped bring revenue to the county.

“He’s always been good to us,” Ballard said.

Perkins was in Washington with the senator and his staff earlier this week “planting seeds.”

On Thursday, via telephone from Washington, Perkins said the purpose of his visit was to meet with Shelby and his staff about local issues and that his visit had “been very productive.”

One main issue of discussion is plans for Selma’s Interpretive Center.

With the Lowndes County Interpretive Center up and running, Perkins said, “Now is the time to bring attention to the next phase, which is Selma.”

Perkins said he wants to highlight the need to get this project done and that Shelby has “always been committed to this project.

“There’s lots of energy and support around this issue,” Perkins said.

Saturday will mark Shelby’s 1,375th county visit since being elected and describes the yearly meeting as part of his commitment to Alabamians.

“Over the years, these meetings have provided an excellent opportunity for our residents to listen and voice their opinions on the activities of our government,” Shelby stated in a press release. “This will be a great chance to discuss the important issues facing our state and our nation as the 110th Congress reconvenes.”

To make lunch reservations, call 875-7241 or e-mail .