Friday and Saturday, the Selma area will once again be inundated with visitors from throughout the state and the region.

As we welcome guests who are taking part in the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s state track championships, those attending the festive ArtsRevive StreetFest, those taking part in the Selma Habitat for Humanity Rib-Off Saturday or the grandparents and extended family coming to town for dance recitals, we must remember that in many cases, this will be the first time many will be visiting Selma.

What will they take away from their visit? What will they remember about the place we call home?

While we cannot control the outcome of the track meet, the judging comments at the Rib-off or how well someone dances, we can control how we treat our guests and the hospitality we show them during their stay.

It is our job — everyone’s job — to ensure when these guests head home, they do so with a smile on their face and a positive impression of Selma.