The first year Selma hosted the AHSAA Class 1A-3A state track championships few seemed prepared for the thousands of visitors who followed their athletes to Selma.

Hotel rooms were already booked, restaurants ran out of food or ran out of the ability to make change for customers.

Last year was much better thanks to an effort by city and business officials urging businesses to get ready for the increased crowds. Hotels had room for teams, coaches and fans, restaurants, while busy, were able to accommodate the influx better and overall, those visiting Selma had a much-improved experience.

Now comes the third year.

Again, the City of Selma and the Selma-Dallas County Chamber of Commerce are reaching out to area businesses, letting them know of just what is coming to town and encouraging them to get ready.

Monday, the city and chamber have organized a meeting for area hospitality businesses, where information on the upcoming events will be shared.

The meeting is set for Monday, April 7 at 8:30 a.m. at the Trustmark Community Room, located on Broad Street. Some of the events that will be highlighted include the AHSAA track meet, plus the annual Michael Johnson Football Camp, the AISA State Track Meet, Dixie Youth and Dixie Boys District 4 tournaments, the annual Battle of Selma and more.

Selma Mayor George Evans, City of Selma Recreation Director Elton Reece and Chamber executive director Sheryl Smedley will lead the meeting.