In Selma, a group of 14 dancers, ranging from the ninth grade to the 12th, have achieved national status.

These young ladies and their dance teacher, Margie Burke, will travel to New Orleans to participate in the BCS National Championship game’s halftime show, Jan. 9, 2012.

Now that seems like a long time away, but not so much if you’re Burke or one of the girls working on the routine with choreographers who have worked with the likes of Lady Gaga, Mary J. Blige and Jennifer Lopez.

Surely, this is an honor for the girls and Burke. It is a wonderful invitation. This is also an honor and positive spotlight for Selma and Dallas County. In these dark days of news about shootings and murders, the ability to announce the achievement of these young women from Selma and Dallas County high schools and Morgan Academy brings a ray of sunshine into our midst.

The troupe has worked hard to gain this reputation of being one of the top 50 in the nation. Now, these young women are preparing daily for the event.

The trip isn’t free. Members of the troupe will have to raise funds to help get there. So, when they knock at your door or come to your business, first smile at them and congratulate them for bringing honor to our community. Then, dig deep in your pocket and give.

After all, when one group of us succeeds, the entire community benefits.