The writing on the signs read, “Selma: Historic places, social graces.”

Not only does it rhyme, which all good slogans should do, but it is also true. Not only is Selma one of the more historic cities in the nation, it is also home to some of the most kind, genteel residents in the Black Belt. It is, in many ways a nice place to visit and call home.

But, recent crime has threatened that good feeling, that welcoming way of life and residents want it back.

The call for more police patrols through neighborhoods is not a step down the slope to a police state but the desperate want for residents to feel safe in the homes they live, businesses where they work and the restaurants and bars they go to have a good time.

The call for more stringent enforcement of business licenses, alcohol licenses and fire safety regulations is not a want for “Big Brother” to creep in on business, but a call for a level playing field to be enforced fairly and safely.

Residents want to know the places they go and the businessmen and women they deal with are above board and doing business the right way.

You ask any police officer, detective, lieutenant or chief and they will tell you they long for a quiet night without crime, a night where the radio is silent with the exception of a regularly-scheduled radio check.

No, the call for more police and fire involvement in certain criminal hot spots and troubled establishments in Selma is not what we want; rather it is something we must have.

Below the headlines and distressing stories, Selma has a story to tell that is far greater than the crime we’ve seen. Selma is a strong, proud city ready to live up to the banners that line the streets.