Growing up, I remember playing board games such as Clue, Monopoly, Operation, Trouble, Scrabble or Twister to name a few. I enjoyed the family friendly atmosphere that came along with each win or loss. Games like these have brought families together, beyond the dinner table, throughout generations.

As times passed though, those games quickly became almost obsolete with the introduction of game systems such as Sega Genesis and Nintendo and the fast, growing popularity of computers. Suddenly, gaming took a negative turn, becoming one of selfishness and violence, leaving family wholesomeness out of the equation.

But today, friends and their families can once again enjoy what the Parker Brothers, Milton Bradley or Merv Griffin intended from the beginning right here in Selma through the citywide Block Party.

From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. inside Lions Fair Park, children from kindergarten to fifth grades can embrace their childhood by getting their faces painted and enjoying crafts and games with their peers.

Sponsored by Church Street United Methodist Church and seven other area churches, I’m sure the event will be a huge success.

Let’s be honest, the youth need an outlet. Keeping them continuously occupied with activities — be it sports related or educational, will surely keep them out of trouble and off the streets.

I am happy to see that our local churches are stepping up to the plate and letting these children know they care and that they are loved.

I am confident the churches will also be there to spread the message of Christ’s love, making an impression on the little hearts for years to come.

It is events like this one that once again bring hope to the area. It’s a sign that the community — rich or poor, black and white, can truly come together to make the community a better place to live.

There’s nothing like seeing the smile or hearing the laughter of a child. And today, churches will make that priceless moment possible for hundreds of little ones.