By KATIE HURST/Lifestyles Editor

HELENA — U.S. Senator Richard Shelby, R-Ala., will make an appearance in Shelby County next week when he visits Helena on Jan. 12.

Shelby will address residents at 10 a.m. at the Helena Community Services Building. Shelby will speak on the legislative agenda for the first session of the 112th Congress as well as issues facing the nation and the state. Shelby will open the floor to questions and comments following his remarks.

“Over the years, these meetings have provided an excellent opportunity for area residents to listen and voice their opinions on the activities of our government,” Shelby said in a press release. “This will be a great chance to discuss the important issues facing our state and our nation.”

Shelby said it is part of his commitment to Alabamians to hold a meeting in each county of the state every year.

The meeting is open to the public.