Back when world-famous tennis player Andre Agassi had hair, he starred in a series of ads with the tagline, “Image is everything.”

Well, of course that’s not true.

Image isn’t everything, but it is important.

That’s why we’re glad that the Highway 80 landscaping project is going through.

Selma is a city rich in history and beauty.

Compared to many cities, Selma already has more than its fair share of beautiful scenery, but we shouldn’t stop there.

With the industrial work going on south of Selma, it’s important that our city look its best when we try and attract new business.

While landscaping doesn’t rank with improving schools, improving unemployment and keeping Selma safe, it does send a positive message to Selmians, visitors and potential Selmians.

When we take the time and money (even if it is grant money) to improve our city’s beautification it says that we care about the town in which we live, that we are committed to making it better in every way we can.

Like a fresh coat of paint on a house, improving Selma’s look can make a big and very real difference.