U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., is coming to Pike County today, and it’s an excellent opportunity for residents to meet their congressional representative.

Shelby will be speaking at a town-hall gathering at the Pike County Courthouse beginning at 10 a.m.

This visit is part of his ongoing commitment to visiting his constiuents and talking with the people he represents. If it follows his traditional formal, Shelby will speak briefly, providing an update on key congressional issues, and then answer questions from the crowd.

And, based on a similar visit last year that took place at Banks Buy-Rite on a Saturday morning, the senator is likely to draw plenty of questions and interest.

This is, after all, an election year. And one filled with plenty of critical national issues, from the economy to foreign relations to the continuing divide between Democrats and Republicans inside the Beltway. And right here in Pike County, we have plenty of concerns, as well, from farmers to newly-minted Tea Party members to small business owners struggling to pay bills and make a profit in today’s economy.

Yes, we have plenty of concerns and questions – and what better way to get some answers, or at least some satisfaction in making our frustrations and concerns known, than to visit face-to-face with our state senator.?