For some time, we have championed the work of each part of the Vicksburg Warren Economic Development Partnership. We have praised their successes and supported their positions.

But while we speak of the Vicksburg Warren Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Development Foundation and the Warren County Port Commission — the three parts that make up the Partnership — as whole entities, these organizations are only greater than the sum of their parts because of the people who make up the parts.

Each organization is made up of dedicated volunteers and committed professionals driven by a common goal that has only recently been fully realized with the development and creation of the Partnership a few years ago.

In its infancy, some questioned why it was needed, but the Partnership, under the direction of Executive Director Pablo Diaz and each of the boards of directors has validated the vision a small dedicated few had in its creation.

This week, the Warren County Board of Supervisors made their two appointments to the Port Commission, naming Maurice Winston and Louis Lambiotte to 4-year terms on the commission that will begin in January. The two replace Margaret Gilmer and Brent Cappaert.

Both Winston and Lambiotte follow in the tradition of appointees and elected board members to this commission, and others, who have agreed to serve their community when asked. They follow in the tradition of bringing a community-first vision to the board or commission on which they serve.

The Supervisors did a good job selecting individuals who will be challenged to follow the likes of Gilmer and Cappaert on a commission that has a crucial role in our community and its economy.

As we approach the time of year when organizations, such as the Port Commission, Chamber, EDF and others, take shape for new terms, we want to thank those who have agreed to serve, agreed to dedicate their time and talents to community service and challenge them to push, pull and drag their respective organizations to new heights and reach new goals.

If we believe these boards and commissions are only as good as those who serve and lead them, then our community is in tremendously good shape.