The issue: This is National Preservation Month.

Our position: Selma is rich in history and is deserving of accolades for preserving its heritage.

The theme of this year&8217;s National Preservation Month&8217;s celebration is &8220;This Place Matters.&8221;

Selma joins thousands of people across the nation in celebrating the importance of their particular place that matters to them through various programs, such as travel, education community revitalization and homeownership in historic districts.

We are fortunate here because we have the largest contiguous histroic district in Alabama.

Our city has taken the pains to ensure that our historic district stays

true. The Historic Preservation Commission meets regularly and works with propertyowners and homeowners to maintain the historical integrity of homes in our designated neighborhoods.

May is Preservation Month.

Mayor James Perkins Jr. has issued a procalmation recognizing the month, recognizing that historical preservation is relevant for communities in fostering local pride and maintaining the character of communities.

On May 29, Selma will be nationally recognized for its preservation efforts as a Preserve America City.

This is a George W. Bush administration initiative that recognizes and gives the designation to governmental entities that celebrate their heritage.

The program began in 2003. Since then, more than 600 communities have been recognized by Preserve America.

In Alabama, Selma joins Birmingham, Chickasaw County, Huntsville and Mobile as Preserve America areas.

Benefits of the designation include White House recognition, a certificate of recognition, a Preserve America road sign and eligibility for Preserve America grants, among other things.

Our history means a great deal to all of us. We&8217;re proud of the desgination and the efforts that surely will follow.