Nothing brings people together like food.

Cookouts, like the ones held by the Elks Lodge at the Smoke-Out Violence rally Saturday and the Selma High School football team Thursday work wonders to create a sense of community and camaraderie among residents.

That is what will eliminate crime.

Neighborhood violence is out of control, and the shootings over the past two days, one resulting in a death, and a hit-and-run Saturday show a fundamental lack of respect for fellow human beings.

Coming together, for whatever reason, is the only thing that will help reduce the number of violent crimes Selma is experiencing.

Violence only breeds more violence. The residents of Selma have a responsibilty to the other members of the community to hold violent offenders accountable.

Neighborhood watches are a good way for residents to be aware of what is happening in their neighborhoods and noticing the warning signs of violent crime before it occurs.

Use the Crime Stoppers number and the secret witness line as tools to bring criminals to justice.

Swift and harsh punishment will go a long way to detering crime, but nothing will help eliminate violence like taking personal responsibilty for the safety of yourself and others.

Bringing the community together — the entire community — is the only way to keep it from being broken apart by violence.