It seems in Selma and Dallas County the game of politics rarely takes any time off.

Political calendars traditionally run in two-year increments, with elections taking place on a routine schedule. No such luck for those of us living in the capital of the Black Belt.

Last year, some Selma voters were asked to fill an open council position in Ward 1. The election was easy; two candidates, no chance for a runoff.

This year — actually in a matter of days — some Selma voters will again be asked fill an open position, this time in the Ward 3 post. Will it be as easy? Not likely.

This time there are eight candidates, a very good chance for a runoff and no clear front-runner to point to.

But, thanks to a local organization, voters in Ward 3 will have a chance to see, hear and meet the candidates they will be voting on when they head to the polls on Tuesday, May 24.

The Olde Towne Association has organized a candidate forum to be held Tuesday, May 17 at 5:30 p.m. at Heritage Village at the corner of Mabry and McLeod.

Just like the event is an open-air event, this event will give the candidates — and more important — potential voters — to air out their views and opinions on the current state of Selma and specifically that of Ward 3.

There are eight residents who have thrown their names into the hat to be a public servant. It is up to them to show up, answer the questions and face the public they hope to serve.

It is also just as important — and just as big a responsibility – for the voters of Ward 3 to show up Tuesday to take an active role in the process.