The 2008 Little League regular season ended last week at City Pond, with postseason slated for July.

But the excitement has just begun.

Soon the local recreation commission will bring the county's only postseason event, in any sport, after hosting the Dixie Boys World Series August 2-7.

The event features a 12-team elimination baseball tournament, and residents of Newton County will have the opportunity to witness Little League play at its best.

Besides Georgia, teams as far away as Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia will compete in the six-day spectacle.

Tommy Hailey, director of the Newton County Recreation Commission, is the person responsible for facilitating the World Series at the immaculate City Pond complex, its fourth time to do so.

"We're excited about hosting the 2008 World Series," Hailey said. "We look forward to getting everything in and doing a good job with it. We're glad to be able to show the country our community."

Festivities begin August 1 with a banquet for the teams and parents, then move to the Covington Square where the public is invited to participate, welcoming the many visitors to the community.

Hailey and his staff have also planned a huge blowout with a live deejay and food for everyone.

Another factor motivating Hailey is the opportunity the kids and community will have to experience the excitement of a World Series.

"We're thrilled that our kids will get the chance to play and participate in a World Series and the economic residuals our community will benefit from," Hailey said with an exuberant enthusiasm.

"This will mean a lot to the county," he added. "Any time you bring in out-of-town guests to stay in your community for a weekend, they're going to spend money. They have to sleep, eat and drink (soda pop); therefore, the economic impact is tremendous."

Hailey also pointed out that an event of this magnitude would give the county great exposure.

"I think we've got a great community and we want to highlight it as much as we can," Hailey said.

Meanwhile, Ricky Vaughn, athletic supervisor of Newton County Recreation Commission, along with his staff, has selected the all-star teams that will represent the county in World Series competition for state honors.

Action started Saturday with the Pee-Wee League American All Stars pitted against the Pee Wee Southerns in Monroe County, while the Pee Wee Nationals faced the Jones County All Stars in Warner Robins.