Searching for a solution

One of the reasons dodgeball is so appealing is that it is so universal. It can be played by anyone who is quick enough to get out of the way of a speeding ball and who is willing to get whacked.

In Jackson, dodgeball has taken on a life of its own. Youngsters have taken an impromptu activity and turned it into a regular event with enough organization behind it to schedule a tournament.

Playing on tennis courts at the Jackson City Park was something dozens of youths have looked forward to on Friday nights for some time. But the board of alderman is concerned about using a tennis facility for a sport like dodgeball.

What could have been an unproductive impasse now appears to be headed in the direction of reaching some reasonable accommodation. Dodgeballers are, if anything, passionate about their sport. Consider the letters to the editor and Speak Out comments of recent days.

City officials have listened to the dodgeball players. At this week's study session, aldermen and dodgeball fans had their say and listened to one another. That's the way it should be.

"We came down to work with you, to make an agreement that is beneficial," said Brett Price, a member of the Jackson Underground Dodgeball League. Let's hope that happens.