To say this is a big week for me is a little bit of an understatement.

Today marks my one year anniversary at the Selma Times-Journal, and looking back, I must say I’m pretty amazed at some of the stories I’ve been able to cover in my short time here.

I was at the greatest Iron Bowl in history when Chris Davis made a play I plan to tell my grandchildren about one day in the very distant future. I covered Dallas County High School as it won the school’s first ever state basketball championship with an incredible comeback that in my opinion, may top the Iron Bowl in wackiness, just because it was so rewarding to see a team I’d watched all year dig deep to achieve its dream. When William Lee hit the three-pointer that sent the game to overtime, I couldn’t believe it went in.

I followed Lee to the Alabama Sports Writers Association banquet in Montgomery, where he won the Mr. Basketball award, making official something I already knew — he was the state’s best basketball player. I was there when he signed with UAB, just like I was there when Selma, Keith and Dallas County had several football players sign to play college football.

I covered the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s state track meet at Memorial Stadium, where over a hundred schools participated for state titles. Through the Selma Quarterback Club, I got a chance to meet Auburn Athletic Director Jay Jacobs and SEC official Marc Curles along with others.

I was there when Selma head basketball coach Woodie Jackson won his 700th career game, which was just another milestone for Jackson, who already has five state championship rings.

My first year here in Selma has flown by. It’s amazing thinking back that I’ve been here this long and the topics I discussed are only a portion of the things I’ve been able to cover. I get to work with great people in and out of the office. From day one, Selma has welcomed me with open arms — especially the area coaches — and I can’t thank them enough. I can’t wait to see what my next year here in Selma holds. I’m sure there will be great stories, but one thing is for sure — I won’t be doing it alone.

On Sunday, I’m getting married to a beautiful woman in Alyssa Branham who has supported me as I’ve pursued my dreams. We are excited to continue our life together here in Selma.