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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

 As I continue to get settled in to life in Shelby County, I’m thankful for the time I’ve had to reflect on the year as a whole over the holidays, as well as the content I’ve put out in my time with the Shelby County Reporter.

As I reflect on the year that 2024 was and what 2025 can be, I was drawn to plenty of articles that SCR has put out recently regarding the numerous awards Shelby County has received across various fields.

From teachers providing quality education and receiving recognition for their services at the Shelby County Schools Teacher of the Year awards to the Shelby County Chamber recognizing individuals and organizations who contribute greatly to Shelby County at the 2024 Diamond Awards, there were plenty of Shelby County residents deserving of recognition this year.

I’ve only been in Shelby County for just over a month, but I’ve quickly recognized that this is a place that frequently celebrates the people who contribute to its success. Yet, simultaneously, it is also a place that doesn’t rest on its laurels. There is always something to celebrate in Shelby County because it’s a place that celebrates hard work and creativity.

I was also thoroughly impressed by the athletic achievements our Sports Editor Andrew Simonson reported on these past weeks. While the athletes recognized for All-County honors across a variety of sports are making waves in Shelby County with their outstanding play on the field, I have a feeling those same athletes will make an impact nationally as they embark to various colleges across the United States.

The awards that this county frequently receives are widespread: from state parks to state fairs and food to film, Shelby County is a place that works hard to receive recognition but doesn’t take selfish pride in it. Even the very newspaper that I write for is one of the most lauded in the Southeast.

It is my hope for 2025 that Shelby County continues to foster a culture of excellence rooted in humbleness and diligence. It is my honor to contribute a small part to a wonderful place that has supreme attention to detail in every area, and I’m looking forward to covering more award ceremonies over the coming months and years.