By Mayor George Evans

Christmas is just two days away. As we prepare to celebrate the holidays with family and friends, let us pause to reflect and count our blessings.

We’ve enjoyed some good times over the past year but also endured some challenges. We live in a city with a proud history and the people of Selma have tremendous community spirit and resilience. Although we have our differences, we’ve shown time and again, that we can come together when it counts to move our great city forward.

Good things are happening in Selma! New industries are coming to Selma. New retail businesses are opening all over town. Applications for new business licenses are up. New construction permits are up. The riverfront and downtown are coming alive with new stores and restaurants and activities. We have new parks and walking trails in our neighborhoods. We welcomed new sports and recreation events this year. Tourists have rediscovered our charms.

Selma is enjoying a resurgence but we’re just getting started. The year ahead promises to be an even more exciting and positive one for the city of Selma!

On a personal note, thank you for your continued support and confidence in me as your Mayor. I look forward to serving you for the next four years. I couldn’t do my job without the city employees who strive to provide the best possible service to the citizens and the cooperation of the City Council. I am fortunate to serve with such dedicated men and women who want the best for our city. Together we can accomplish great things because working together works.

During this holiday season, let us not forget those who are less fortunate. Christmas isn’t a happy time for everyone. The greatest gift we can give is to serve one another. Reach out to your neighbors who are experiencing financial problems and to the elderly and those who live alone. Volunteer your time if you’re able or give generously to the groups and organizations that extend a helping hand at Christmas and all year long.

At this Christmas, especially, spend quality time with your children. If the horror at Sandy Hook Elementary School has done nothing else, it has reminded us how precious our children are to us. Don’t just shower them with gifts this Christmas, shower them with love. Let them know they are cherished not just on Christmas but every day.

Finally, remember our military who serve us at home and abroad and the first responders who put themselves in harm’s way when a catastrophe or crisis strikes.

Pray for our President and national leaders to make wise decisions, for healing for the families and residents of Newtown, Conn, and for other communities around the country touched by violence, and for peace and hope in our city, in the nation and around the world.

From my home to yours, Jeannie and I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a joyous New Year!