By Mayor George Evans

As the year comes to a close, I’d like to thank each and every one of you for your continued support and the trust you‘ve given me as mayor. It is an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Selma.

As a lifelong resident, Christmastime in Selma holds a special place in my heart. The windows of the shops downtown, the Christmas wreaths and lights lining Broad Street and the decorations on homes, churches and stores all over the city remind me of my childhood. But most of all, it is the people of Selma — my neighbors and friends, my employees, former students, longtime residents and new people I meet on the street every day or who come back to town just for the holidays — who make Christmas so special. Despite the challenges we face and our occasional differences, during the holiday season we come together to help one another, to worship together and to give thanks for our many blessings. We are one Selma.

I can’t say often enough how much I appreciate the dedication and commitment of the employees of the City of Selma who strive to provide the best possible service to the citizens day in and day out. Our police and fire departments, first responders and civilian volunteers not only performed their duties here at home but went above and beyond to help in Tuscaloosa and Birmingham and wherever else they were needed during the horrific events earlier this year. They have done us proud.

Don’t forget to support our local retailers as you go about your holiday shopping. They supported Selma during this difficult economic downturn and we need to support them.

Remember that every dollar spent here turns over in our community six times and that retail sales taxes make up the bulk of the city’s revenues. Local retailers not only provide essential goods and services but they provide jobs. So, during the holidays and all year long, shop Selma first.

After Christmas, please help us to keep Selma free of litter and looking clean for the enjoyment of our citizens and for our visitors.

Place garbage and whatever trash can fit into the green containers. Bag loose packaging and neatly dispose of boxes and other materials at curbside. Separate trash from yard waste. Put trash out the night before your scheduled pickup.

This year you have the option of dropping of your natural Christmas trees at two locations for recycling: Four Seasons Garden Center at 611 Cahaba Road and the City of Selma Landfill at 4555 Water Avenue behind the Public Works Building. Drop off at both locations is during regular business hours. Please remove all lights, tinsel, bulbs, garland and other decorations before bringing them in.

Continue to check on your elderly neighbors, relatives and friends to make sure that they are healthy, safe and warm this winter. Remember to thank and keep our servicemen and women in your prayers for their sacrifices and service to our country.

Wishing you and your families a safe and enjoyable holiday season. Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah and a Joyous New Year! I am looking forward to a better and more prosperous 2012.

Peace and Blessings.