North Shelby resident found dead after fire

Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputies found Kathleen Smith Jones, 78, dead in her home on Dec. 27 when they responded to smoke in the 5800 block of Cahaba Valley Road in North Shelby County.

The North Shelby Fire Department responded to the call and found Jones dead in the home at 11 a.m.

Shelby County sheriff’s deputies, along with investigators from the Alabama Fire Marshall’s Office, are investigating the death and the fire.

&uot;This is a tragic and devastating loss to the Jones family during this holiday period. our thoughts and prayers are with them,&uot; said Shelby County Sheriff Chris Curry.

Columbiana awards for Christmas decorating

The Columbiana Beautification Board has announced the winners of its Holiday Decorating Contest for residents and merchants.

According to Beautification Board chairman Michele L. Walker, the contest was held Dec. 18 for merchants and residents within the city limits of Columbiana. The event was judged by two individuals from outside of Columbiana.

She said various board members accompanied the judges while touring the city and enjoyed the creativity and artistic efforts of all who displayed the holiday spirit. The results of the judging are as follows:

* First Place Residential:

The Pardue Residence at 156 Magnolia Park.

* Second Place Residential:

The Etress Residence at 187 Cedar Lane.

* Third Place Residential:

The Bean Residence at 106 Hidden Springs Drive.

* First Place Merchant:

First National Bank of Shelby County.

* Second Place Merchant:

Gail’s Florist.

* Third Place Merchant:

The Punkin’ Patch.

Honorable Mentions went to the Smith residence at 380 Cedar Lane, the Hand residence at 102 Highland Drive, the Sauer residence at 405 E. College Street, the Vincent residence on Timothy Drive, the Oliver residence at 118 Arlington and the Glen residence at 316 E. Hwy. 25.

&uot;The Beautification Board would like to thank the judges who were such wonderful company and who were gracious enough to spend an evening with us during such a hectic time of

year,&uot; Walker said.