“Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live…” Deuteronomy 30:19

For those of us who believe the Bible is God’s word there is no doubt human life is the pinnacle and the most important part of His creation. Not only are we fashioned as human beings in the image of God, but every individual is also His unique creation. “Your eyes saw my unformed substance,” “you knitted me together in my mother’s womb,” “I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139)

Today marks the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks—an event that forever changed our country. In the days that followed, even small towns like Albany felt the weight of the tragedy. From locals who were near the towers to families glued to television screens back home, the impact reached far beyond the East Coast.

It had been 626 days since Adam Hill last played in a football game—his final snap for Albany coming in the 2023 state championship at AT&T Stadium on December 14, 2023. A monumental piece of the Lions’ back-to-back title runs in 2022 and 2023, Hill helped lead Albany to consecutive state championships with his toughness, versatility, and relentless work ethic. On Saturday, he finally returned to the field, suiting up for his first college game with the Texas Tech Red Raiders in their season opener against Arkansas–Pine Bluff.

Despite the 2025 dove season opening on a Monday, hunters in Shackelford County reported a day that met, or even exceeded, expectations – and expectations were high. 

Abundant birds, favorable weather, and packed fields made for a promising launch to the season, which had the traditional Sept. 1 start date and ends on Nov. 9 before picking up again for a “second season” Dec. 19, 2025 through Jan. 7, 2026.

Game Warden Jacob Mort said the county is seeing some of the best early results in the region.