Good morning, Decatur.

John Seymour, the former President and CEO of the local chamber whose work transformed Decatur’s economic landscape, died at home on Dec.

12 at age 82. Known for his humble spirit + he guided community development projects and mentored many, his legacy lives on in Decatur.

Decatur Downtown Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Kelly Thomas said downtown holiday attractions will be expanded in coming years, building on renewed efforts this year to welcome more visitors downtown.

Further details on the expansion are expected soon.

On Dec. 17, Calhoun Community College & Morgan County Schools held a ribbon-cutting for the Rural Development Park, a repurposed Career Tech High School in Morgan County that now serves 80 dual-enrolled students and will expand programs in Fall to include additional career training.

The Alabama Department of Human Resources has launched a pilot for chip-enabled EBT cards in 11 counties to improve security by adding an expiration date and a 3-digit code; if successful, new cards will be mailed statewide after a four-to-six-week trial.

Respiratory illnesses are on the rise as the holiday season nears * local health sources advise residents to monitor symptoms and seek care when needed.