A huge shout out and congratulations to Ashville High School Senior Molly Northam. Northam excels in basketball scoring an average of 20 points per game and nine rebounds per game. That is beyond impressive. Well done Molly. We predict you will go far.

On the subject of basketball, the St. Clair County event center will be opening soon. This 12,000 sq. ft. building, at 100 Arena Drive in Odenville, now sports the lines for a full basketball, volleyball and three pickleball courts. and it’s not even finished.

The St. Clair County extension office program for 8th graders “Reality Check, Your Money or Your Life” will be held on Jan. 19. This event simulates real life for the students including occupations, family situations and the surprise events life throws at us. Storefronts are set up for the students to purchase everything from groceries to daycare to life insurance and more.

According to Leigh Anne Clark from the extension office, “It’s always a lot of fun to see how the kids react. Some even ask for divorces or if their mothers can keep their kids so they don’t have to pay for daycare.” Spoiler alert, they cannot.

This event is also a lot of work. Volunteers are sorely needed. Private message the extension office if you are interested.

Thursday and Friday are the last days to drop off toys for Alabama Christmas Blessings. Drop off locations are the Dollar General in Steele, Steele Marathon, Vintage 426 in Atalla, and Advance Auto in Pinson.

Ashville’s Christmas on the Square and parade did not proceed as planned. Apparently, the weather has no Christmas spirit. The event has not been canceled just postponed. On Dec. 19, the vendors and food trucks will open on the square at 4 p.m. There will be face painting, balloon twisting and pictures with Santa. The parade will start at 8:30 p.m. so bundle up.