Rep. Jamie Kiel was the guest speaker at the Russellville Civitan Club March 22.

Kiel said he had spoken to the club before – but some time ago, before COVID-19.

Kiel spoke on a range of topics, including COVID-19 and the way precautions have been applied to large businesses versus small businesses and churches.

He also spoke about gas taxes, prison reform – noting a plan for three new prisons to be built – and gun rights, especially pertaining to permits and open carry laws, as well as controversies regarding who can play on men’s and women’s sports teams and related topics.

He additionally talked about education, inflation and the Simplified Sellers Use Tax and how that affects communities.

Kiel entertained questions on various topics from those in attendance, including what prospects there might be for a lottery or other forms of gambling in Alabama.

“It’s been an interesting four years for me in the legislature,” said Kiel. “I’m glad to have the opportunity to speak to you again, and I’m happy to answer questions if you call me.”

Russellville Civitan Club President Eddie Beason said the club went for a period of time without in-person meetings because of COVID-19 precautions and resumed meeting in person a few months ago.

“The Civitan Club is for men and women interested in our community and in making it better,” explained Beason. “We’d like to encourage interested individuals to learn more at one of our meetings. We meet on Tuesdays from noon to 1 p.m. in the Ralph C. Bishop recreation center in Russellville.”

The club also recently held a successful chicken stew fundraiser and is looking forward to the next one, to be held within the next month or two. Funds go toward community service projects.