The City of Selma makes a significant investment in its youth through Dixie Youth Baseball.

There are more than 2,000 area youth signed up for youth baseball and girl’s softball on one of 124 teams, starting at age 5.

The city budgeted $725,832 for the recreation department this year, which is used for salaries, facility maintenance and programs. Participants take part free of charge, the recreation department provides hats and game shirts.

The players have to provide their own pants, socks and cleats. There is no registration fee.

According to Elton Reece, director of the parks and recreation department, Selma is the only city in the state that provides the program free of charge to participants.

The opening ceremony is set for April 12, and games begin on April 13.

There is still a need for volunteers coaches.

We applaud the city for its recreation program. There is no way to measure the impact on the lives of children who have participated over the years.