Just one year ago I was in my parent’s home in Demopolis hoping, like many, to get the chance to put my recently earned education to use.

I had just graduated from Troy and was stuck in a moment where I didn’t have enough experience. Then I got a chance here in Selma.

What I had heard of Selma left me a little nervous going into this work, so even after accepting the job I was still hesitant.

Then I got here and was able to meet the people and see Selma as it could be.

I saw the wonderful people at the library and the work they do bringing encouraging children to read and open their minds to the world.

I got to see all of the great sports that Dallas County has to offer. In our coverage area alone there has been three teams make the final leg of their respective state playoffs: The R.C. Hatch girl’s basketball team, Dallas County’s softball team and Morgan Academy volleyball, who claimed their second title in as many years.

I saw events like the the Bridge Crossing Jubilee and Pilgrimage bringing countless visitors to see what we get to see everyday.

Unfortunately, though, I’ve also seen some of the things that have brought me down.

I’ve learned Selma has that wonderful small-town feel with big city crime.

Twelve people have lost their lives at the hands of another in the year I have been here, but city officials and police are now making plans to help curb some of that crime.

I know that in this first year in Selma, my perception of the city has gone 180 degrees, but there is always room for improvement.

So thank you Selma for such an excellent first year.

The encouragement I get each day from, you our readers, is what makes this job worth it.