Dear Santa,

I know my Christmas list has changed greatly throughout the years. You must miss the days when all I asked for were Disney stuffed animals and tons of Reese’s peanut butter cups.

This time last year I’m sure my list consisted mostly of gift cards and A’s on all my college finals which by the way, an A on that logic final would have been nice, but I won’t hold it against you.

This year, my list is a little different.

I’m sure your trustworthy elves in the North Pole Post Office have notified you already, but I now reside in historic Selma, Ala. Jack Frost’s snow doesn’t quite reach us down here in the Black Belt, but your Christmas spirit is still greatly felt.

This year for Christmas I’d like some things for my new home. No, I’m not asking for a new kitchen table or 55-inch plasma TV. I’m asking for things to change for the better in Selma.

As you know, we have many hardworking, caring folks here in the butterfly capital. Their passion for this small town is great and without them our community wouldn’t shine bright like the North Star. However, there are some things in Selma that unfortunately fall under the naughty list.

This year for Christmas I’d like all the vacant, unused buildings on the Broad Street and the waterfront to be restored to their original glory. I’m sure you remember how great these buildings used to be. The Tepper’s Building was where families would stock up on coats and scarves for the cold weather and the old YMCA was where Selmians would flock to work off those extra holiday pounds.

I’d also like safer, cleaner streets to enjoy after sunset. I’ve gained many great friends since moving to th South and we all need a place to enjoy after the dinnertime hour. Maybe a few more restaurants and boutiques too, since the existing ones are doing so well.

Also, if it’s not too much trouble, I’d like you to save the Selma-Dallas County YMCA. There’s been talk of this wonderful facility closing, and that would simply break my heart. The YMCA offers so many great programs for all ages. I’m sure I’m not the only one who would be saddened to see the Y go.

Lastly, I’d like you to continue the great progress that is already going on in Selma. Although our city may be hard to see as you fly through the wintery skies, it’s a great place and I’m happy to call it home.