I haven’t lived in Selma very long, but over the past few months I’ve grown to call this town my new home.

One of the first things I noticed about my new home is its trash problem.

The first time I drove into Selma I couldn’t help but notice the cans, wrappers and even cardboard boxes that littered the side of Highway 80 on my way into town.

As I began to cover Dallas County Commission meetings and the occasional Selma City Council meeting I learned that others were disturbed by the city’s trash problem too.

I’ve heard city councilmen, councilwomen and commissioners express their frustrations with the trash that fill Selma’s streets.

Their frustration is understandable, elected officials should feel like it’s their duty to improve the city, but trash is not a government problem, it’s a people problem.

If the people of Selma want to see their streets cleaned, then everyone has to take enough pride in the city to keep it clean.

Selma is a beautiful place.

It’s history, buildings, homes and people make it every bit as charming as Savannah or Charleston. All the trash makes it difficult for people to see that beauty when seemingly everywhere you look lies an empty beer can, candy wrapper or takeout box.

I encourage everyone who can to participate in “Don’t Drop it on Alabama” beginning next Friday, April 20. Volunteers will be working to pick up trash along County Roads 67 and 38.

If you’re interested in participating, contact Dallas County Commissioner Valerie Reubin at (334) 872-0578.