Hello readers! I’m back with this week’s edition of What’s Up in Odenville.

The Countdown to Christmas has begun and you have 14 days to get those gifts under the tree! Most of my shopping is complete. Just a few small things to pick up here and there. I have several Christmas gatherings on the agenda and I’m looking forward to spending time with friends and family. Well, most of them anyway. Let’s be honest. We ALL have that one (in some cases more than one) person that makes getting together during the holidays a struggle. You know, the Cousin Eddie from Christmas Vacation. The headache medicine and eggnog starts flowing freely, and the smoke breaks more frequent. I know you can relate. Just breathe, count to ten and pray you won’t need bail money this year. ‘Tis the season after all…

Let’s get to the news:

Community

The City of Odenville’s Annual Christmas Parade was held on Tuesday and was a huge success. After much stressing and last minute changes everything went off without a hitch. The participation and the attendance was unbelievable. Although the temperatures read in the 50’s, trust me when I tell you it felt like it was in the 30’s. My hands and feet were frozen and my nose looked like Rudolph. Our Grand Marshal this year was Fred Hunter from Fox 6 Absolutely Alabama, honorary Grand Marshals were the Moore Family – Jennifer, Carter, Clara Grace, and our precious Colton along with his friend Nick. The Moore’s rode in the sleigh with none other than Jolly Old St Nick himself. Colton’s mom Jennifer said the kids were so excited about being a part of the parade they were ready to go at 5 a.m. that morning! Folks really put their creative juices in motion and created some AMAZING floats and displays. The winners for the float contest were as follows:

Mayors Award – Best Overall – S.W.A.T with their military vehicle decked out as Rudolph.

Judges Award – Most Creative – Odenville United Methodist Church – Live Nativity

Spectacular Sparkle Award – Best use of Lights – Odenville Utility Board

Thanks to The City of Odenville, The OPD and everyone that helped make this parade a successful. Great job to everyone. Can’t wait to see what next year brings.

Odenville Youth Volleyball

We will be hosting our third annual youth volleyball camp on Dec. 12, at SCCHS. Cost is $10 and includes a camp shirt.

Grades K-2 will be from 9-11 a.m.

Grades 3-4 will be from 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Grades 5-6 will be from 3-5 p.m.

Boys and girls will be welcome, and forms have been sent to OES, OIS, OMS, and Margaret Elementary. If your child has not received one, feel free to message us for an emailed copy. Also, please message any questions you may have. Thanks for letting your child participate in this awesome sport!

The next Odenville Area Business Association meeting will be Monday Jan. 4 at 6 p.m. at the Odenville Civic Center. Hope to see you there!

Everyone be sure to lock your car doors and house doors! There have been reports of armed break-ins in our and surrounding communities. Be aware and be safe!

That’s all for this week! Send your Odenville news to odenvillenews@gmail.com.

Remember to shop local this Holiday Season and help support your local small businesses. Small business is the heart of our community!