The Selma Times-Journal

An awards ceremony at the Carl Morgan Convention Center marked the first celebration of National Neighborhood Day in Selma Sunday Sept. 16.

Following an introduction that included a song performance by Councilwoman Jannie Venter, residents of Wards 5, 6, 7, and 8 were recognized by their respective city council representatives for the work they have done to keep their neighborhoods clean and safe.

City councilman Johnnie Leashore said originally, no more than 10 households were going to be recognized in his ward. So many people contributed, the number went up to 26, of which 23 made an appearance Sunday to receive their certificates of appreciation. &8220;The more, the merrier,&8221; Leashore said.

Pauline Anderson, Annie Cooper, Jessie Burton, and Louvenia Brown were presented with gifts in addition to their certificates of appreciation for having spent upwards of forty, fifty or more years in their homes.

Following the ceremony, many residents expressed appreciation for the program and council members’ assistance in their neighborhoods.

National Neighborhood Day is celebrated in neighborhoods across the country on the third Sunday in September. It is a non-political, non-sectarian event that focuses on building relationships between individuals in a community through projects that can include cleanups, block parties, dinners, and children’s activities. In Selma, the program was introduced through community outreach.

Recognition for additional residents is slated for upcoming months.