Economic development has been the buzzword in the city of Picayune for the past several years, which is a good sign.

Cities that don’t work towards building opportunities for business growth leave precious chances for expansion on the table.

This weekend, hundreds of youth ball players will be playing at Friendship Park. Bringing this tournament to the area was the work of city officials with the aim of not only raising awareness of this municipality’s presence, but also to build on the advantages our area currently offers.

While Picayune is an hour away from New Orleans and Biloxi, the city has a lot to offer within its own boundaries.

In addition to parks, Picayune has a plethora of prime land that could be developed by any number of large or small industries.

The tournament will bring in not only the children who will play in the tournament, but their parents as well. Some of these folks may either represent a large company, or are a major player in that business.

Putting the best foot forward this weekend could turn their eye our way. Companies move from time to time. When they do they look for the things Picayune offers, such as a low crime rate, laid back atmosphere and successful schools.

Youth sports tournaments also bring commerce to the already established businesses, such as restaurants, hotels and gas stations. People need to eat, sleep and fuel up for the ride home.

So local business owners prepare! This weekend hundreds of people from out of town are bringing their hard earned cash this way. And showing these visitors everything that is great about Picayune will not only be seen in their eyes, but also the eyes of their friends and family when they share their experience.