The Selma Times-Journal

Kids in Selmont now have a new place to play, thanks to efforts of the Dallas County Commission. A new playground was dedicated Saturday at 4 p.m., adjacent to Jim Minor Garden Homes.

A crowd of local residents enjoyed music, catfish, fries, barbecued chicken, and other goodies immediately following the dedication in a pavilion at the center of the playground. Kids piled onto the slide, the merry-go-round and the playground swings.

The merry-go-round stood out as a clear favorite for many of the children.

Nicole Smith, a one-year resident of Jim Minor Garden Homes, said she was very happy the playground was built. &8220;I love it out here, but we really needed something for the kids,&8221; she said.

Angela Tyus, a resident of Jim Minor Garden Homes as well, described it as a nice addition to a nice community. &8220;I think it’s great and I love it here,&8221; she said.

Jackie Harris, a Selmont native who has lived in the area since she was born, had high praises for the playground and for county commissioner Connell Towns’ hand in bringing the project to fruition. &8220;He’s done a great job here with the community,&8221; she said. &8220;This is something the kids really needed…they needed somewhere to play besides their front porches.&8221;

Towns, who is in his second term as county commissioner, said it took six months to get the playground built. Funding was a joint effort between the county commission and individual investors.

The community’s younger population was excited about the playground, too. One young man named Andrew, age 16, said he thought the playground was a nice addition to the community, though not necessarily for him. &8220;It’s nice…but for the little kids,&8221; he said. Young men Quinterrius and Devonte, both age 14, agreed. &8220;It’s straight…I mean, it’s nice to see kids having something to do,&8221; Quinterrius said.

The area is fenced in and will have round-the clock security. The park will be open to the public daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.