“Isn’t it wonderful to live in a community that takes care of the needs of all of its children?”

Those were the words of PowerSouth’s Gary Smith at Thursday afternoon’s Miracle League field dedication. His words underscored all others spoken there.

PowerSouth played a huge role in bringing the Miracle League project to fruition in a relatively short period of time. The City of Andalusia spearheaded the Miracle League effort for Covington County, setting a fundraising foal of $500,000 to build the ball field and playground to accommodate children with special needs. The special surface on the field and in the playground makes it easily accessible for children in wheelchairs, yet safe for anyone to play there.

To date, governments, businesses and individuals have given or pledged more than $600,000 for the project, Andalusia Mayor Earl Johnson said last week. Soon, a picnic pavilion will be added nearby.

Among those on hand was Johnny Franklin of the national Miracle League Association. He said there are more than 275 Miracle League facilities that have been developed in the past 13 years. But he said he’s never seen one come together as quickly as Covington County’s did.

The businesses, foundations, civic groups and individuals who have supported this project did so with the notion that we should take care of all of our children. The community’s generosity is overwhelming.

But the happy smiles on the faces of the players – and on the parents who never dreamed their very special children would have this opportunity – are priceless.

Kudos to this community for loving all of its children.