Hele H elena Ciitttyy New elen Newwss Serving the City of Helena and surrounding area
Late Spring 2017
HUSKY BASEBALL TEAM WINS SEMIFINAL SERIES, THEN
Huskies Win State Championship! SOFTBALL TEAM PLAYS IN CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT AFTER EARNING SLOT AS REGIONAL QUALIFIER
HELENA MARKET DAYS STARTS HELENA HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF JUNE 3 IN OLD TOWN SATURDAYS 2017 AND HONOR GRADUATES Vendors, Farmer’s Market, live entertainment, kid’s play area & more!
Valedictorian, Salutatorian and Honor Graduates inside along with others
HELENA HIGH SCHOOL SPRING ATHLETES DO WELL AT STATE
Track & Field has strong showing; Kirsen Gardner tops in state
www.MyHelenaCityNews.com / www.CityofHelena.org
FROM THE MAYOR
Greetings! Spring and Summer activities are off to a great start in the City of Helena. First Friday has returned, the Buck Creek Festival was a huge success and our youth leagues and public school sports teams have dominated their sports this season. I would like to offer my sincere congratulations the 2017 graduating class of Helena High School. Your hard work, dedication and personal investments at Helena High will bring you great rewards in the future The success and accomplishments of this class reaches well beyond Helena High, and has helped reflect positive recognition and attention on the City of Helena. These graduates have certainly earned this community’s respect and gratitude and will always have a special place in our hearts. Success in the classroom, the performing arts, sciences, volunteer civic groups and athletics have made a noted
impact and undeniable difference in this community. This group earned several million dollars in scholarships to colleges and universities across this country including U.S. Armed Service organizations. I would like to remind all the graduates to please remember this; no matter where you go in life you will always have a home here in the City of Helena where we will always welcome you with open arms. Allow me to also mention the success of Helena High School Athletics, where every sport in the program enjoyed another successful year in the AHSAA 6A State playoffs. This is indeed another historical year for HHS, not to mention we once again have had the best marching band and cheerleaders in the state! Please be sure to read the related articles in this edition of the Helena City News. I would also like to thank the administration, staff and teachers on a successful year at HES, HIS, and HMS where students continue to excel, filling our hearts with joy and pride. This is where it all begins. The City Youth League baseball, softball and soccer teams also enjoyed success this season at the
MAYOR
Mark R. Hall
CITY CLERK Amanda Traywick
CITY COUNCIL
Leigh Hulsey Pres. Pro-Tem, Place 1 Mike Jones, Place 2 Alice Lobell, Place 3 Elect Laura Joseph, Place 4 Elect Hal Woodman, Place 5 2 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
Parks and Recreation Department. Park Director Bill Miller and staff have worked hard to do their best to make this a rewarding season for everyone. We have requested funding to add additional parking at the Sports Complex and begin will work on a dedicated youth soccer field this summer. In other important news we continue to look at improvements to our city’s waste water treatment facilities. We will begin renovating a major pump station at HIS this summer, that serves a large part of our city, to insure that we are doing all possible to meet or exceed our needs. This renovation has been needed for years and I am pleased we will be able to get this done. I am VERY optimistic about the lane expansion project on State Road 261. I have worked hard to form a partnership with ALDOT, the Shelby County Highway Department, Hoover and Pelham to put together a funding mechanism to make this happen. It will certainly benefit everyone in the surrounding areas and is long overdue. This needs to happen to spur other road improvements as well. I am very pleased that work is beginning on turn lane additions at County 52 and County 13. I am told that lane additions at Co 93 and 52 will follow. We have
partnered with the County to do our part to help expedite these projects. I have also asked the Highway Department to add a much needed turn lane at County Rd.17 and County Rd.58, and they have agreed to look at this as soon as possible. All encouraging news for some much needed improvements on our roads. In closing, I would like to thank our City Council for their efforts, hard work and continued support to make Helena the best it can be. I also want to thank all of our dedicated volunteers, in particular those that work on the Buck Creek Festival. The famous Duck Race raises much needed funding for many great organizations and of course the entire event was great fun! Don’t forget to visit First Friday’s and Market Days this summer along with the big July First Friday on Saturday/Fireworks display. Jazz in the Park will return this summer as well! As always, we appreciate and ask for your continued support for our local Helena businesses. Best Wishes,
Mark Mark
IMPORTANT CITY PHONE NUMBERS City Hall: 205-663-2161 Fire Dept.: 205-663-5809 Police Dept.: 205-663-6499 Utilities: 205-663-1670 Sports Complex: 205-620-2877 Library: 205-664-8308
Go Huskies!
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Helena’s Annual Spring Clean Up Day “We had 46 Helena residents participate in making their town beautiful.” Beautification Board Chairman Chris VanCleave
On March 4, 2017 the Helena Beautification Board held its annual Clean Up Day in Old Town Helena. “This year’s event was a huge success. We had 46 Helena residents participate in making their town beautiful, said Beautification Board Chairman, Chris VanCleave. During the event, volunteers shaped up shrubs and pulled weeds throughout Old Town and at the Welcome Center Caboose. As a part of the event, the Old Town strip project began to take shape with the installation of pole plant-
ers and 6 new varieties of sustainable roses. In total, 20 roses, 5 Rosemary shrubs and 8 Nandina shrubs were planted. Six existing roses were relocated to City Hall. New this year was a “How To” demo led by Brian Puckett. Brian demonstrated how to make and install your own pole planter, like those seen around town for very little money. “This is a great way to save money and still have a great look in your garden,” said Puckett during the presentation. “Providing this information is just another way the board gives
back to the community,” Puckett said. To view more information and pictures from the event, visit the Helena Beautification Board website at www.helenabeautiful. com/2017_clean_up.html. The Board would like to thank all of the residents and groups that participated in the event and a special thanks to the local Girl Scout Troop, Donut Joe’s and Sunshine & Punkin’ Catering as well as the Helena Police Department for providing officers to ensure the safety of all of the participants.
The Helena Beautification Board is an appointed board of the Helena City Council. The Board believes that people and places are profoundly connected and thriving communities are rooted in individual responsibility and action. They host a variety of opportunities for the community to come together and serve each year. Events are posted on the Helena Beautiful Facebook page and announced via Twitter at @TweetHomeHelena.
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After game one, both Cullman and Helena teams joined in a prayer circle to give thanks.
The team that prays together, stays together
Husky baseball team wins state title! Coach guy says he was born and raised a “ballpark kid” in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Graduating from Holt High School, he went to college at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville on a scholarship to play baseball. After graduating from the school’s two year program, he earned a scholarship to continue his collegiate eligibility at Auburn University in Montgomery. (Coach Guy says he still yells Roll Tide, though.) His first job after graduating college was as baseball and football coach at Lloyd Wood Middle School in Tuscaloosa County. He stayed there four years before accepting the job to coach baseball at the brand new Sipsey Valley High School in Buhl, Alabama. “It was actually both a middle and a high school serving the same kids who had gone to Lloyd Wood, which was closed when the new school opened.
PJ met his future wife, Lee Anne, who had taken a position there teaching math after graduating from the University of Alabama. It wasn’t long before the two were married. During four years at Sipsey Valley, PJ and his baseball teams won three Area Championships, and in his final year there, 2014, the team was the runner-up for the state title. “It was during this run that I first began talking with Jay Peoples about the new Helena High School that was about to open. I felt guilty about that, but Lee Anne had already taken a job at Spain Park and was driving about 3 hours a day to and from her job. For a time, she’d stay with her parents in Shelby County while I stayed at our house in Tuscaloosa. We looked for houses in between, saw a lot of them in McCalla, which was about halfway, but prayer nudged us toward Helena,” said Coach Guy. The Monday after his team at Sipsey Valley lost the Championship game to Madison Academy, Jay Peoples, Helena High
STATE CHAMPIONS!!!
10 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
School’s principal at the time, called to offer PJ the baseball job. He accepted and took his Helena High School team to the state championship in its first year, 2015, ultimately losing the title game to Russellville in 5A competition. The nucleus of that team was eight sophomores, now seniors. “That team was 18-15 going into the 2015 playoffs and overcame a lot of adversity to fight their way into the championship round.” For those who follow the team, eight players were suspended for part of the playoffs after an unfortunate altercation with Jemison in an early round. “Us staying in it was truly a God thing,” he said, “as we pulled up JV kids to face St Paul’s who came into the series with a 39-2 record on the season. We swept them in two games on our brand new field,” he smiled. This year’s squad boasted a final record at press time of 38-6 and played behind the strong pitching of seniors Riley Davis and UAB commit Troy Cordrey along with junior Landon Green, a Samford commit. Senior Brooks Brophy would get a shot to close out the championship game on the mound. Brooks will attend UAH on scholarship this fall. Catcher Sam Praytor, who Coach Guy says is the most talented player he has ever coached, is a senior and
a University of Alabama commit. Sam currently sports a .425 batting average and provides lots of offensive firepower in addition to his play behind the plate. He’s a threat to go yard every time he steps to the plate. (Assuming the other team decides to pitch to him.) Another big hitter for this year’s team is centerfielder Nash Adams, carrying a batting average of .419 into the championship. “This group of seniors has played together since they were 5-years-old,” said Coach Guy, “and it shows in the way they perform together on the field.” Coach Guy is joined by coach Bobby Cummings who coaches infielders and helps with hitting along with Coach Guy. The pitching coach is Jody Colvin, roommate/teammate of Coach Guy’s at AUM. Now competing as a 6A team, the Huskies swept Russell County in the first round of the state playoffs in followed by sweeps of Opelika, Baldwin County and Hillcrest in short order. After struggling in game one to open the championship series, the Huskies bounced back strong to win the series in two games to bring the coveted “Blue Map” (the kids’ name for the trophy plaque) home to Helena, the baseball team’s first state title in its short three year history.
Some of the guys decided to lighten their hair for the playoffs, but these guys are not so much superstitious as they are confident in their ability to compete as a cohesive unit on the diamond.
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Beloved Helena Police Officer Billy Hinds laid to rest in Helena City Cemetery Helena lost a local legend last month when Billy Hinds died after a long illness. Billy bought the land for the house he and wife Frances lived in on Helena Road when he was just a teenager. He worked construction from age 13 and paid for the land with money he earned. Billy graduated high school in 1956, where he was a football star for the Thompson Warriors. After Frances graduated, the two set about building their house here. Starting with the Helena Police Dept. as a reserve officer in 1966, Billy set the standard here for community policing long before community policing was much thought of. Everyone knew “Mr. Billy,” as he was affectionately
known, and of the hundreds of comments left on Facebook posts made in his memory, countless numbers told about how he was the first person they met when they moved into Helena. Billy made it a point to never meet a stranger. Billy said once that he’d been known to follow a moving truck to its destination just to welcome the new folks. He said he tried to familiarize himself with all the houses he patrolled, and if he saw a strange car, he’d check it out, saying he knew that people were appreciative, and that’s what he was paid for. A real people-person, Billy always enjoyed his day-to-day interaction with citizens. “He knows everybody and really cares
about people,” the late Chief Ray Rollan once said. Perhaps people will remember him as Helena’s favorite traffic cop at the elementary school where he kept the traffic moving steadily for nearly 20 years. Billy was a longtime member of Helena United Methodist, and members there remember Billy as the man in T-shirt and jeans who was either serving up biscuits and sausage in the fellowship hall on Sunday mornings or taking out other’s trash. He had a true servant’s heart. When he wasn’t working, Billy could usually be found working in his yard or sitting out front waving at passersby. For many years he and Frances would decorate elaborately for the holidays,
Pictured above, from left: “Mr. Billy” as the Helena Elementary traffic cop, working at Helena United Methodist Church, as 1997 Christmas Parade Grand Marshals with wife Frances, and atop his riding mower.
and Halloween was a special favorite. He is survived by wife, Frances Spain Hinds. Daughter Kathy (Rod) During, Son Brian (Tracey) Hinds, Daughter Jennifer (Brad) Farrell. Grandchildren: Austin & Forrest During, Rachael, Rebecca & Garrett Hinds, Katie Cooper and great granddaughter, Audrey During. He was preceded in death by his parents, George & Lorene Hinds, Sisters: Louise Bartlett, Pat Parish & Pam Roland. Anyone wishing to donate in Billy Hinds’ memory are asked to donate to Helena United Methodist Church, New Beacon Hospice or the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.
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Helena Twirler competes at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Three thousand twirlers from several countries gathered at Disney’s Wide World of Sports in Orlandp, Florida to compete at Twirl Mania International 2017 in February. Nine-year-old Madison Randall of Helena competed in the Beginner 7-9 age division and received the following awards: • Top 5 in all of her individual events
• Top 5 in the Beginner Miss Twirl Mania pageant Madison now holds the title of Beginner Twirl Mania International 2017 2-Baton Champion! She is the daughter of Aaron and Kelly Randall. Madison is a 3rd generation twirler and has been twirling since she was 6-years-old. Congratulations Madison!
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Helena bids sad farewell to Zodie McCall dollar for the winner of a foot race down 261 and back. Demetria laughs while recalling her step-dad’s jokes and penchant for handing out those dollar bills to kids in the neighborhood.
“Keep going and treat people right.” These were the principles Zodie “Ticka Bill” McCall lived by, and for more than 50 years, Helena residents were his beneficiaries. Mr. McCall met former wife Shirley in 1966 and moved from Bessemer to a modest house on 261 in Helena. His daughter Demetria recalls his fun-loving ways, always trying “to get something going” between her and her brother—there’d be a
Shortly after moving to Helena, Zodie McCall became the first black police officer in Helena. He and his partner, Billy Hinds, called the Helena Jail (what is now LazyBoy BBQ) “headquarters.” Demetria smiles, recalling it as a time when Helena was “a very small city; everyone knew each other.” In the 70s, Mr. McCall left law enforcement to buy and manage the Helena Shell filling station (what is now Express Oil on Hwy 17), never afraid to work hard and try something new. Eventually he worked at Faulkner Garage in the evenings, and became a school bus driver by day, a position he enjoyed for more than 30 years. Demetria recalls the bus stories he’d share and the Cokes he’d hand out to his young, hot passengers.
His generous commitment to the kids and the community was evidenced by the treasures he’d receive during the holidays, and by the stories residents recently shared about his kindnesses to them. All this was an extension of the way he served his family even years later. “My kids would go to his house every morning and he would always have rice, ham, and biscuits ready for them. Then they’d all get on the bus.” When he wasn’t working, Mr. McCall would be perfecting his secret BBQ sauce. He shared his BBQ ribs at work and gave the sauce away too, but never the recipe. He enjoyed yard work, and a couple times each month would pile his kids into the pickup truck outfitted with a camper and head to Pensacola to fish off the drawbridge. For many years, Mr. McCall served as an usher at Kingwood Church, and may best be known for his latest service with the City of Helena—riding the “Green Gator” along city roads, clearing debris
with a ready smile and an instinctive, larger-than-life wave for every passerby. Mr. Zodie “Ticka Bill” McCall died February 25, 2017 at 81 years old. He would want people to remember “how vibrant and alive he was all the way up to the end,” Demetria reflects. “It’s important to work and to have good standing with people. Keep going. Treat people right.” Mr. McCall is survived by wife, Amelia Hampton McCall; children, Sam Paige, Winfred (Angel) McCall, Demetria (David) Billings, Sharon (David) Murph, Lakeshia Pate and Deon (Ardie) Taylor; step daughter, Terri Hampton; siblings, Jim Taylor, Dave, Algeray and Anthony McCall, Dovie White, Susie (Johnny) Kelley, Barbara (Jesse) and Maxine Young, Cleveann Blackstone, Gwen (Don) Battle and Leona (Donald) Lawrence, as well as 22 grandchildren and an imprint of generosity on his much loved community in Helena.
Call for Helena Beautification Award Nominations The Helena Beautification Board is currently accepting nominations for the June Helena Beautification Award. This award is given to residents within Helena that outshines all around based on exterior appearance. The criteria used to judge is based on yard maintenance, design and landscape, and overall curb appeal. Nominations are being accepted until the May 25th with the winner being selected and notified by the first of June. The winner for June will be able to proudly display a yard sign for the month, have their picture and house published on the Helena Beautification website, Helena Beautiful Facebook
page and in the local press. To nominate a home to receive the Helena Beautification Award on June 1, go to www.helenabeautiful.com/award.html and submit the address. The Helena Beautification Board is an appointed board of the Helena City Council. The Board believes that people and places are profoundly connected and thriving communities are rooted in individual responsibility and action. They host a variety of opportunities for the community to come together and serve each year. Events are posted on the Helena Beautiful Facebook page and announced via Twitter at @ TweetHomeHelena.
14 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
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Helena bids farewell to former City Clerk Frances Parrish Frances Parrish was hired as city clerk at a time when city business here was so slow that she sometimes crocheted at her desk during the workday. It was 1970 when Frances was hired as Helena City Clerk, making $10 a day, working three days a week. With a population of only 1,110 and city personnel of two (her and the police chief), the workload was less than difficult for a woman who took the job that offered low pay and a small desk with stray papers stuffed in its drawers. Born to a mother who was 42 years old, Frances continued the family tradition of later in life childbearing when Frances gave birth to her third son, Jarrod, at age 36. “It totally changed my life,” she said. Her older sons, Jimmy and Jason, were 13 and 9 when Jarrod was born, leaving Frances to return to late-night feedings and diaper changes long after she thought she was finished. She laughingly told friends that she had three families. Born in Maylene in 1932 and a 1950 graduate of Thompson High School, Frances and her
family moved to Meridian, Mississippi where they lived for 17 years before moving back and settling in Helena. Frances said she saw it as a great opportunity to work and live here. Anyone who ever visited city hall while Frances was clerk was likely to have seen Frances’ display of Egyptian relics in her office. A student of Egyptian history and customs, Frances was part of a tour group representing 52 countries and five continents that traveled throughout Egypt in 1994. She spent Christmas on the Nile, fulfilling a longtime dream to visit the country where she said she felt a deep connection. Frances proudly wore earrings carrying the sign of the ankh which means “eternal life,” and a necklace with a charm of Egyptian writing—”Frances” on one side and “Parrish” on the other. Frances love for the City of Helena and for her family ran deep. After retiring as city clerk in 1998 with 28 years of service, she returned for several years as executive assistant to then Mayor Sonny Penhale before retiring for good.
During her tenure with the city, she served as Vice President of the North Central Alabama Retired State Employees Association and received her CMC certification. Frances battled cancer successfully but then fought a neurological illness for the remainder of her life. She died March 27, 2017 at the age of 84. She was predeceased by her husband, James A. Parrish, Sr.; parents, William Oscar and Mary Ann Smith Wood; all of her siblings, Roy Calvin, William Franklin, Norman C., Gordon, Lois K. Wood, Nell Wood Allen and Lorene Wood Bearden. Her survivors include her children, James A. Parrish, Jr., Jason A. Parrish (Debbie) and Jarrod A. Parrish (Sherry); grandchildren, Josh Parrish, Jessica Parrish (Shayan Movahed), Amber Self (Bobby), Jodi Tennyson (Brandon), Reed Parrish and Aidan Parrish; great grandchildren, Autumn Parrish, Lacy Parrish, Frannie Self, Robert Self , Lelia Movahed and John Wyatt Tennyson.
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Local hero recognized at March 27 council meeting The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Jamie Griffin, with wife Amy at the late March meeting of the city council. Jamie was then presented with a Certificate of Heroism Commendation for saving the lives of three children while vacationing in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. Two boys and a girl were swimming offshore (with red flags flying) and were caught in an undertow. There was a young boy who tried to help his brother when this happened who was also rescued by Jamie. Hats off to a true hometown hero!
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Helena High School Bass Club just plain fun! Bass fishing is a lifelong activity for all ages and something they can be involved in during their college careers.
Bass fishing has become increasingly more popular since Ray Scott started the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society in 1967. Since that time, B.A.S.S. Nation has become the largest bass angler sports organization in the world. While bass fishing is not currently recognized in the state of Alabama as a high school sport, you can’t convince the members of the Helena Bass Club that it isn’t. The competitive sport has these young men hooked. Helena Bass Club first came into existence in the 2014-15 school year with the opening of Helena High School. Many of the current members, including Cade Holcomb, President, and Chace Gregory, Vice-President, were freshmen that year. Their commitment to the sport has paid off
for them. In the first year, they both qualified for state with their partners, along with several other two man teams. In the second year, not only did the majority of the two man teams qualify for state, but Cade and Chace also qualified for the Costa B.A.S.S. Nation High School National Tournament on Kentucky Lake. This year, the team is 20 members strong with anglers from the 8th-11th grades. Thus far, after four tournaments, 6 of the 10 two man teams have qualified for state. Anglers had a choice to fish 4 of the 5 regular season tournaments held on Lake Martin, Smith Lake, West Point and Neely Henry. The final regular season tournament was held May 13th on Wheeler Lake with the two-day state tournament taking
20 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
place June 9-10 on Lake Eufaula. Currently the club has two two man teams that have broken the top 30 for Angler of the Year. Each tournament, two man teams are awarded points based on their finishes. Their hope is to continue accumulating points in order to break into the top ten and possibly qualify for the Nationals tournament this summer. The thrill of competing is a strong incentive for them, but the scholarship monies awarded sweeten the pot. The club is very thankful to various local businesses who have supported them. This sport is an investment in the youth of today. While Helena Bass Club is comprised of all males, presently, many female anglers are making strong appearances at the tourna-
ments. Bass fishing is a lifelong activity for all ages and something they can be involved in during their college careers. If you ask the parents of these anglers, they’d say they’d rather their kids be on the lake fishing than…not. Pictured left to right above: Kaden Carter, Joe Randall, Scott Yunke, Dalton Craig, Lake Weidler, Chace Gregory, Tucker Weidler, Cade Holcomb, Hudson Tinnell. Not pictured: Myles Mediros, Andy Perry, Adam Jusino, Ethan Folmar, Kaleb Cook, John Heacock, McCall Caruso, Andruw Sanders, Cole Hassler, Jacob Graydon, Talon Pritchard Special thanks to sponsor Gent Holcomb for this article.
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Husky Golf team shoots well in Golden Eagle Invitational The Helena High School golf team competed in the Golden Eagle Invitational April 6th in Athens, AL. The event took place at Canebrake Country Club. Out of the 16 teams competing, Helena took 3rd place with a combined score of 315.
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Credit and Debit Cards Accepted 22 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
Pictured, l to r: Coach Steve Bromley, Alex Dawson, Brock Baker, Michael Fain, Josh Braddock, Gabe Brooks and Bill Melton. Congratulations guys!
Helena Business Association Elects New Board Members The April 4 meeting of the Helena Business Association was very well attended thanks in large part to the success of the inaugural Helena Business Expo. Many new businesses joined the HBA as a result of their participation at the Expo and it was great to see so many of them at the April meeting. April is always a very important meeting for the HBA because this is when new board members are elected. The nominees were given a chance to speak to the members about why they wanted to serve on the board. The members voted and at the end of the meeting the results were revealed. The new board members of the HBA are as follows: • Adam Windsor–President • Andy Healy– Vice-President • Johnny Carcioppolo–Secretary • Rodney Parker–Treasurer The new board members thank the outgoing President, John Burch and Vice-President, Kristi Scozzaro for all they have done for the businesses of Helena during their term. John and Kristi have been outstanding serving on the board and leave some very big shoes to fill. Both are still very active in the HBA and have been meeting with the new board members to make sure there is a smooth transition. As outgoing President, John Burch will con-
tinue to serve the HBA in the Past President’s role for the next year. Although Kristi is probably ready for a well-deserved rest, she has already said she could be counted on to help wherever necessary. The mission of the HBA is three-fold. To provide educational opportunities for our members. To provide a networking environment for Helena businesses to share their success, solve problems, and promote their business to the local market. To be an advocate for local businesses and interact with the city government on business related issues. The new board members are committed to fulfilling this mission but sincerely hope they can count on the members to help them do this. Members can help by participating in the monthly meetings and volunteering to help plan and execute the many activities the HBA sponsors. If you own a business in Helena and have not joined the HBA yet, now is a great time to do so. Let the HBA help promote your business and take advantage of the many networking and learning opportunities available to members. You won’t regret it! Submitted by: Johnny Carcioppolo– HBA Secretary Owner of FocalPoint Coaching and Training (205) 436-6500.
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JnS Treasured Creations proud to call Old Town Helena home Jen and Scot Newman, owners of JnS Treasured Creations, were Michigan natives not so long ago. Now they are more than happy to call Helena home. “We love Helena,” they agree. “We love how respectful and polite people are here in the South,” said Jen. “For about a year, Scot commuted to his Alabama job. We had heard nothing but good things about Helena, so together we drove around checking out the area. School was an important factor for our 8-year son Bryce, and he appreciates playing baseball, soccer and football with the friends he has made here.” “Soon after we moved to Helena, I asked Scot to make me a bookcase from pallets,” Jen recalls. “It turned out great and from there, it evolved into making other pallet-based items requested by friends. Dog beds, coffee cup holders, hat racks and headboards. More recently, customized leash hangers, coffee
tables and a corner entertainment center.” Jen paints a large variety of wooden signs that now surround the walls in their recently opened store at 4025 Helena Rd. “Scot delights in giving me a blank canvas of pallets and encourages me to be creative with any ideas that come to mind,” Jen notes. There is her version of Sweet Home Alabama, various renditions featuring the word LOVE, variations on nature and birds, football themed signage and motifs for each upcoming holiday throughout the year. JnS Treasured Creations is open Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 12-5. They will be open every First Friday and are always available by phone or text for custom orders. They will also be vendors at Helena Farmers Market. Check out their facebook page at: J n S Treasured Creations or contact Scot at (313) 377-9078 or Jen at (810) 938-3481.
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‘
DISCOVER All the Ways ‘‘
Your Library
‘
To
Hello from the Jane B. Holmes Public Library: We hope this letter finds you well, and that you visit the library soon…
Greetings from the library!
‘
Spring is in full effect at the library! Many patrons are visiting the library to check out a wide variety of great items. This is a great time of year to look for books on gardening, exercise, self-help, or to find good vacation books as summer approaches. The library received an LSTA grant through The Institute of Museum and Library Services, and The Alabama Public Library Service. This funding has given the library the opportunity to purchase non- ction material in different formats. If you are interested in History, Health, Biography, or many other subjects, visit the library soon for updated material. Look for posters, lists of new items, and informational displays as the summer moves along. Speaking of the summer, it is that time of year again! Time for the annual Jane B. Holmes Public Library Summer Reading Program! Whether you are 1 or 100 years old, we have a program for you. Our theme this year is Build a Better World, and we have a full program with neat prizes and a fun calendar of events.
eTIOwN Books: N FIC
N: NON-FICTIO the Monkey of ity C st Lo ee Th the Storm s er Preston th as ea gl W ou lia D Miss Ju God Trevor Noah e orn A Crim Ann B. Ross B is w Le ly er Story - Chip - Bev The Ebb Tide The Magnolia na Gaines r an ou Jo The Burial H Gaines and r Being Late Jeffery Deaver Thank You Fo an dm n ie eo Fr Finding Gid Thomas L. y oject ke ic Pr D ng e oi m ro nd Eric Je The U re Fi is re w The Stars A Michael Le - Jewel Anita Shreve Never Broken rd fo nd Sa hn sJo re ey gu Golden Pr Hidden Fi aldacci B etterly id Sh av e D Le t x Fi go The Mar Woods rt ua St iarest e D os ss Fast and Lo The Prince rn Michaels Fe er es sh ak Fi St h rie Hig Car - Iris Johansen No Easy Target
JANE B. HOLMES PUBLIC LIBRARY 230 Tucker Road, Helena AL 35080 205-664-8308 Visit us @ www.cityofhelena.org
Visiting the library is a great way to be an example for younger kids Remember these simple steps: 1. Come in and get a library card NOW! 2. Make plans to visit the library often 3. Library Summer Reading Program starts in June—BE THERE!
Helena Library 2017 Summer Reading Program “Build a Better World” (ALL SUMMER PROGRAMS ARE FREE!)
Summer Reading Registration Begins May 31st PROGRAM KICK-OFF June 7th 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. At Helena City Hall! Magician Russell Davis!
End of Summer Reading Finale!
“WILD WEST SHOW” featuring Cowboy Bruce Brannen Wednesday, July 12th 2:30 p.m. at City Hall
Story Time with Ms. Jennie* Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:00 am
If you are in middle or high school, remember to read this summer for pleasure, to keep your academic skills sharp, and for some fun prizes!
SPECIAL EVENTS ON WEDNESDAYS at City Hall McWane Science Center
June 14 - 10:30a.m. - 2:30p.m.
Midsummer Movies (at the Library)*
June 21 - 10:30a.m. - 2:30p.m.
Visit with the Fire Department
June 28 - 2:30p.m.
Visit with the Police Department
July 05 - 2:30p.m.
*Program is at library
uerytshiicng:- John Mayer ee Sewarch M N Ev for Th
- Joey Feek If Not For You eche Mode ep D artney AC Spirit Dirt - Paul McC dtrack Flowers in the riginal Motion Picture Soun e Original Motion Picture O Th By nd d Inspire La La La usic From and tion The Shack - M t I Call 90s Pop - Compila ha W ’s at Th Now eeran Divide - Ed Sh ttle Big Town Li er ak re B e Th Josh Turner Deep South - lison Krauss lation A ity ic 61 - Compi Windy C hat I Call Mus W ’s at Th ow n N , A Boat - Trai A Girl, A Bottle ompilation C 34 ompilation Kidz Bop Nominees - C 17 20 y m m ra G X I See You - e X ve - Childish Gambino Awaken My Lo
More Movies... Passengers - Chris Pratt, Jennifer Lawrence Doctor Strange - Benedict Cumberbatch Nocturnal Animals - Amy Adams, Hacksaw Ridge - Andrew Garfield Manchester By The Sea - Casey Affleck, Michelle Williams I Am Not Ashamed - Masey Mclain, Sadie Robertson, Ben Davies, Korie Robertson Loving - Joel Edgerton, Ruth Negga
ovloioeds: NederwwoM rld: B
ated Sing - Anim y Comed Un le reed e Beckinsa Assassins C sbender Wars - Kat - Ryan as F l ae Mich La La Land ma Stone ht m Live By Nig Gosling, E k ec ffl er A d n en an B The Fou alie Portm ton Jackie - Nat - Jessica Michael KeaPatel e an Slo Lion - Dev A Star Wars Miss in Chasta Rogue One: ity Jones, uli’i ic Moana - A ewayne Story - Fel ,D o h al a v n u ra L C Diego ” Johnson Back“The Rock zel The Bounce ore, Nadine en D o Fences Shemar M ill Bellamy, n, Viola to g in B h , as ez u W Velazq d o o w er is d Dav Sheryl Un
Sherlock season four - Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman American Pastoral - Ewan McGregor, Jennifer Connelly, Dakota Fanning Trolls - Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake The Light Between Oceans - Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander Jack Reacher: Never Go Back - Tom Cruise Don’t Breathe - Dylan Minnette, Jane Levy Inferno - Tom Hanks Middle School The Worst Years of My Life Griffin Cluck, Lauren Graham The Ultimate Legacy - Logan Bartholomew
The Dressmaker - Kate Winslet, Judy Davis, Liam Hemsworth and Hugo Weaving Greater: The Incredible True Story of the Greatest Walk-on in the History of College Football In A Valley of Violence - Ethan Hawke, John Travolta Snowden - Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children Sully - Tom Hanks Secret Life of Pets - Kevin Hart, Eric Stonestreet, Louis C.K. Magnificent Seven - Chris Pratt, Ethan Hawk Storks - Andy Samberg, Kelsey Grammer Finding Dory - Ellen Degeneres
Please Help Build a Miracle League ball field for Helena Mary Chambliss The Helena Miracle League ball field will be located at Joe Tucker park. Our Mission in forming the Miracle League is to provide children and adults with disabilities an opportunity to play baseball, regardless of their abilities, and also to promote community support and sponsorship of our Miracle League players. We arew promoting the construction of facilities that meet the unique needs of Miracle League families and friends. We can not change or cure the medical issues life has dealt these players, but what we can do is provide them with an opportunity to experience the joys and benefits that come from playing our national pastime—Baseball! You may have seen our booth at First Friday in Old Town Helena or at the Buck Creek Festival. Please give me a call if you’d like to help our cause at (205) 3788385, or if you want to make a monetary donation that would also be welcomed!
We will have a Motorcycle Ride and Food Truck Rally June 3rd starting at Motorcycle Supply Store in Helena. Owner Alan Farmer has been very generous in helping us put the ride together. We are currently looking for sponsors for this first annual inaugural ride. We are planning to have a live auction in October—more information and details will be announced later on this. As you can tell, the Helena Miracle League is now in the fundraising phase. While we are fundraising, looking for grants and sponsorships, and getting ready to build our field, we will be doing other activities for our special needs community. Our families and friends can follow us on our Facebook page at Helena Miracle League. Or you can call us at (205) 378-8385. We want to thank everyone who has been so supportive of our league so far! You have been behind us and believed in us 100 percent. We could not do it
26 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
without YOUR help! While we are raising the necessary funds, we will be hosting other activities for our Mirale Leaguers such as game nights, bowling, fishing, etc. We will be so much more than a baseball league—we will be a extended family! A special thanks to the following for all their help so far: Emmanuel and Kristi Scozarro, John Burch, Jason Otis Mayor Mark Hall, The City of Helena, The HBA and Alan Farmer. So many great people and I know that I am forgetting some. Our board for the Helena Miracle League are: Chairman-Mary Chambliss Vice Chair-Curtis Stephenson Treasurer-Laura Lusk Secretary-Vickie Hardin Facilitator-John Burch Dan Linden, Nikaa and Bruce Wombacher, Jimmy Hardin, Jamie Duffle, and Ralph Rawlings If you know of anyone who would like to be a sponsor for the
June 3rd motorcycle ride, please let us know. Sponsorships are only $100 to get your name on the T-shirts and brochures, banners, etc. Remember the date: June 3rd–first Saturday in June! I am very proud of my special needs child. Preston Chambliss is 19 and graduates this year from Helena High School. Preston has a very rare condition called Prader-Willi syndrome, or PWS. He wants to be a bat boy/ manager when he gets a job, so I thought a Miracle League in Helena would be a great place to start! Wont you help? Please contact us today! Visit our Facebook page at Helena Miracle League or call us at (205) 378-8385. Thank you! Mary says if you want to find Preston, look for the pretty girls…Seen here with the Belles at First Friday in May.
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The church went all out, providing inflatables, face painting, cornhole toss, pics with the Easter Bunny and more. A special prize basket was awarded to the winner of each of three age groups. Dr. Priscila Denny of Oak Mountain Orthodontics once again supplied the Prize Easter Baskets. The winners were the ones who found a special “golden egg.” In addition to Christian Life Church and Oak Mountain Orthodontics, sponsors of the Easter Egg Hunt included Bud’s Best cookies, Helena Neighborhood Walmart, Helena Publix and Sports Clips. Thanks to all the sponsors, volunteers, and evryone who brought their kids out to enjoy the beautiful spring day!
28 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
WINNERS!
City partners with Helena resident, Pastor Jeremy Saylor, and Christian Life Church to stage Annual Easter Egg Hunt
We work, rest and play in Helena And we are here to help keep you and your family healthy and enjoying our community, too!
Hands Hand so on nC Care, are, C Close lose to to H Home. ome me.. TherapySouth has served communities all over Birmingham for more than 10 years, and now Nolan Williams is bringing that commitment to Helena! We love working here to provide physical therapy for friends in our community. TherapySouth is an outpatient physical therapy practice with a fun, family-oriented environment. Our experienced physical therapists know our patients by name and strive to help them achieve their physical goals. We know you have a choice for your healthcare, and we’d love to be your physical therapists.
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ANNOUNCING
The 9th Annual
DOUGLAS W. JONES Memorial Golf Tournament Benefitting the
HELENA POLICE EXPLORERS
Tournament Information Thursday, June 22, 2017
All Proceeds directly benefit the
HELENA POLICE EXPLORERS! For more information, please contact: Captain J. Penhale Helena Police Department 816 Highway 52 East Helena, AL 35080 Office: 205-663-6499 Email: jpenhale@helenapd.com
Tournament Sponsorships are also available. Your support of the Helena Police Explorers would be greatly appreciated! If you are interested in sponsoring the tournament (many levels available) or donating a door prize, please contact us! 30 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
Bent Brook Golf Club 7900 Dickey Springs Rd Birmingham, AL 35022 7am – Sign In / Practice 8am – Shotgun Start
Lunch will be provided following your round of golf . There will also be awards and door prizes!
FORMAT – 4 person scramble (You pick team or committee will assign) COST - $100 per player This includes: Range Balls, Gift Bag, Lunch, and automatic entry for Door Prizes MULLIGANS - $5 each (Limit 3) Can be prepaid with registration or purchased at the golf course
A white swim jig & its prey. “Dude Looks Like A Lady” womanless beauty pageant raises funds for Miracle League ball field
We asked Tyler for a tip to give local anglers in search of bass this May and June. “White swim jig,” he offered. “It’s my go to lure. This is the best season of the year to catch bass, as they are coming out of the spawn and hungry.”
Former Husky Bass Club member now on scholarship with the University of Montevallo’s Outdoor Scholars Program After his graduation from Helena High School in 2016, Tyler Harless has been a part of the Outdoor Scholars Program at the University of Montevallo. This is the second year for this unique program that was started by program director William Crawford and the president of the University of Montevallo, Dr. John W. Stewart III. Dr. Stewart and Crawford were inspired to give students a chance to combine classroom studies with the fun and education of the great outdoors. Tyler said, “The Outdoor Scholars Program is a one of a kind program in which college students have the opportunity to learn about many career opportunities in the outdoors industry. We have traveled to places like Mossy Oak headquarters, whitetail deer farms and even quail farms. We have learned how to operate quail farms, how to grow big deer, how to train bird dogs and many more outdoor vocations. We have guest speakers come and talk to us a few times a
semester and we have wild game cookouts several times a semester as well. This program offers scholarships. I am truly thankful to be involved with a program like this. I have always loved hunting and fishing, and it is a perfect program for anybody that has similar interests.” When asked what he was looking forward to this upcoming school year, Harless spoke of going on trips where the students will get the chance to fish and hunt animals they have not previously encountered. Several students from the Outdoor Scholars Program also belong to the University of Montevallo’s Bass Fishing Team, like Tyler, which had a 4th place finish at Cabela’s National Collegiate Open at Lake Dardanelle, Arkansas this past March. Tyler is hopeful that his education at the University of Montevallo and experiences in the Outdoor Scholars Program will provide a more solid path to his chosen career as a Wildlife Biologist.
Supporters of the Miracle League group raising funds to build a special needs ball field in town got together for a fun night April 1 to stage a womanless beauty pageant. Several “beauties” donned their best in glam clothes and makeup, but perhaps not did it as well as the winner, none other than “Hewey No Sleep” aka Hal Woodman who may create his own cult following with this glammed out getup. Special thanks to Mike Dubberly for emceeing the event,
Denny Cruz for acting as DJ and Lillie Brewer, a “real” beauty queen from Helena High for crowning of the “Dude looks like a lady” winner. About $1,000 was raised for a wonderful cause, and everyone had barrels of fun. The Miracle League says it has a Motorcycle Ride planned for June 3 and is currently looking for more sponsors. Please contact Alan Farmer at his new Helena business, Motorcycle Supply Store, (844) 820-3310.
DID YOU KNOW?
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31
METRO SOUTH know exactly where and what they want in a home— and I enjoy using my talent to help guide them through this process. I have experience with new construction, and also with the resale of existing homes. Occasionally a family will require my expertise with a short sale, foreclosure or an investment property. I am licensed throughout the state of Alabama, so if you are looking for a property on the coast, in the mountains of North Alabama, or on one of our beautiful lakes, I am always available to work with you. I do not claim to have all the answers to the Real Estate puzzle. I do, however, work with a great team of other Realtors, mortgage lenders, title companies, and many other key professionals in this business. Together, we can help you make the right decisions with regards to Real Estate.
Hi, I’m Susan Wiggonton, a full time licensed Realtor with Keller Williams Metro South, and I’m available to assist you throughout the process of buying/selling a home. I’m a native of Gadsden, but I have lived in Shelby County for 25 years, so I know this area extremely well. I have two sons who keep my husband and I very busy, so I can appreciate how hectic life can be at times. The Real Estate market today is continually changing, and I feel that it is extremely important to work with a Realtor who you can trust. This trust includes them being available to you when you need answers and also being a partner with you as you pursue what is probably the largest purchase/sale of your life. I love meeting first-time home buyers, who often have already been browsing online. They usually
Move up to Helena’s Oak Park The Woodlands
Susan Wiggonton, Realtor® (205) 837-4228
This Jackson Circle home is in Jackson Square Conveniently located in the heart of the city
Brick homes with large lots and wooded back yards…
Susan Wiggonton, Realtor® swiggonton@gmail.com (205) 837-4228
®
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1555 Oak Park Drive, MLS #781885 $350,000 5 Bedrooms (or 4 and an extra den) 4.5 Baths Granite in Kitchen Screened and Open Deck Lower Patio Hardwoods on Main Level New Carpeting in Master Bedroom
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1549 Oak Park Drive, MLS #779772 $365,000 5 Bedrooms 4.5 Baths Bonus Den in Basement Granite in Kitchen and Master Bath Screened and Open Deck Lower Patio Hardwoods on Main Level as well as Upper and Lower Staircases
921 Jackson Circle, MLS #780574 $225,000 4 Bedrooms 2.5 Baths Move-in Ready with Updates Throughout Gorgeous Landscape Private Wooded Backyard
Have a Real Estate question? I’d love to hear from you!
Huskies Track athletes do well at State– Kirsen Gardner State Champion!
Husky Softball Team plays well in post season tournament heads to state championship tournament in Montgomery as this goes to press! Coach Heidi Kouveras has her team playing at a high level and may be peaking at just the right time. The Huskies defeated Wetumpka in a rout, 11-3, in the final game of the South Central Regional qualifier tournament May 12 at Troy. Behind the strong pitching of Avery Barnett, the Huskies put together a hitting and fielding clinic to punch their ticket to the State Championship Tournament that is played each May at Montgomery’s Lagoon Park as this goes to press. This year’s state action starts Wednesday, May 17 at 9:00a.m. with the Lady Huskies, the South Central qualifier #2, playing the North Central qualifier #1, Gardendale. The double elimination 6A State Championship tournament runs two days. Other teams in the 6A State Championship tournament include: Cullman, Daphne, Northview, Hazel Green, Walker and Chelsea. Good luck to Coach Kouveras and her Lady Huskies!
2017 AHSAA Track & Field State Championships Helena High School All State Performers
Event
Name(s)
Place
Time
4x800M Relay
Justin Ritondo, Blake Vaughn, Spencer Hodeges, Jacob Lackey
3rd
8:39.60
3200M Run
Blake Vaughn
4th
10:02.7 8
4x400M Relay
Deven Tucker, Jeremy Leath, Warren Edewards, Cade Pugh
4th
3:26.89
High Jump
Justin Stuckey
4th
6-4
1600M Run
Blake Vaughn
8th
4:34.97
Event
Name(s)
Place
Time
Shot Put
Kirsen Gardner
1st
38-5
High Jump
Allison Tanner
2nd
5-4
3200M Run
Abigail Ford
6th
12:15.44
Majorettes tops on the Plains The Helena High School majorettes competed at the Winterfest Twirling Competition in Auburn awhile back and brought home a first place trophy. Congratulations ladies!
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Now open in Old Town Helena If there is a better spot in Shelby County to enjoy a burger and some nice spring weather than the deck at Beef O’Brady’s newest location (overlooking Buck Creek Dam in Old Town Helena), I don’t know where it would be. Owners George and Eileen McCluney have spared no expense in renovating the place, either. From the no smoking signs throughout (covered deck included) to the totally renovated interior (even the bathrooms
were totally overhauled), to the big screen TVs that give the bar area a sports pub feel, the McCluneys have given a brand new feel to the place. There’s even a bandstand in the corner on the bar side where local entertainers perform a few nights each week. This is the kind of family restaurant Helena needed in this location with one of the best views around and darn good food and drinks to boot.
The menu is large featuring American family fare with a nice selection of entrees including wings, burgers, specialty sandwiches and salads. We stopped in for lunch recently. I had the BBQ bacon cheeseburger with fries and cole slaw while my wife had a build your own cheeseburger with pepperjack cheese. Cooked just right, our burgers were delicious, and I really enjoyed their fries; slightly crispy on the outside with a soft
center, fried up golden brown. We ended our lunch by sharing a chocolate molten cake that’s as good as any you’ll find, topped with whipped cream and a dark chocolate sauce. Our verdict: it’s great to have a spot close to home to take in the gorgeous view of the dam and enjoy a good meal with the family. Stop in soon and give the McCluneys a big Helena welcome!
Helena Middle School Softball Coach Mark Sanders celebrates 350th win with the winningest team in school history
Mark Sanders was born in San Dimas, California, the son of Danny Sanders, an Assemblies of God minister and his wife, the late Phyllis Sanders. “My dad started churches in several states in his younger years,” said Mark. “Our family moved to Anniston when I was 5, and then to nearby Alexandria when I was 12.” This is where he would spend his formative years and graduate high school. His mom died after a 10 year battle with cancer when he was only 15, and this was a trying time for the family. Mark helped his dad with church duties during this time, with duties ranging from helping lead the youth group and Sunday School to acting as a worship leader and preacher. “I had to grow up fast,” said Mark. Mark and his brother Michael persevered though, and when Danny found and married Christina—Mark was in high school—Mark believes she was a gift from God to be a wife to his father and a mother to himself and his brother, Michael. After graduating from Alexan-
dria High School, Mark attended Gadsden State Community College for awhile before getting a scholarship to play baseball at Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, Georgia. “I realized pretty quick after a couple of injuries that I wasn’t going to be a professional ball player,” laughed Mark, so I decided to move back home and finish my degree at Jacksonville State University.” Mark married Dawn, his high school sweetheart, soon after he graduated college. “She graduated from the University of Alabama,” he said, “and we pull for both the Gamecocks and the Tide.” Mark graduated in 1997 and married Dawn the following year. His first teaching job out of college was at Westbrook Christian School in Rainbow City, Alabama, where he served as an asst coach for the baseball and football teams. Brodie Croyle was the QB on the football team and played shortstop in baseball. “I was only there a year before taking a job at Moody in St Clair County where he stayed two years before finally getting an opportunity at a head coaching job in Shelby County at
Riverchase Middle School. “I was wanting to become a baseball coach,” he said, “but Principal Charles Smith told me if I’d take the head job with the girls softball team and do a good job, when the baseball job came open, he’d give it to me.” Mark took on the challenge before he’d had a chance to learn exactly what kind of team record he was inheriting though. “When I finally looked at the score book from the previous season,” he said, “I saw a loss of 37-0 against Clay-Chalkville called after 3 innings,” he remembered. “Another teacher then told me that the team had been winless the previous couple of years, too,” he laughed. “But I really wanted that baseball job,” he said, “so I determined that we’d work hard to turn things around. I told the girls from the beginning that I’d love them as if they were my own, and I expected each of them to love their team mates unconditionally; to be unselfish players and people. And I knew I had to create an environment in which they could excel as athletes.” In the team’s first season with
Mark at the helm, 2002, the girls went 11-15 (the only season since with a losing record), a dramatic turnaround from previous years. From 2003-2007, they had wins of 22, 19, 23, 27 and 38 wins. Each year, the girls set new school records, and won the Metro League Championship in 2007, the first ever for the school. When Helena Middle School opened in 2008, Mark was named the head softball coach (Baseball—what’s baseball?), and he hasn’t looked back. HMS’s first season to compete was in 2009, and all the new Husky team did was end up as regular season champs and runnersup in the Shelby County Tournament. The girls went on to win Southern League Championships in 2010, 2011, 2016 and this year, 2017. This year was the best season yet, as the 2017 squad only lost one game the entire year, and that in a tight game that finished in extra innings. The girls finished the 2017 season with a phenomenal record of 34-1. Congratulations all around to the record setting HMS Husky softball team and coaches!
This season was a personal milestone for Mark Sanders, too, as he won his 350th game of his illustrious softball career. “The group of young ladies that played for Helena this year was special,” he said. “They played as an unselfish single unit, top to bottom, no coach could ever ask for a better group of team players. Everybody contributed to the success of this team, and I’m grateful to all of them.” “This team won 19 games that were shutouts,” he said, “we only played three complete games all year.” (Due to the mercy rule, games are called early when the winning team is ahead by 15 runs at the end of 3 innings or by 10 at the end of 5.) The two aces in the pitching circle this year were Lexi Bullock and Peyton Doriety. About half the team was made
up of 7th graders, he said, so the Huskies should be a very talented group next season, too. Mark and Dawn Sanders call Shelby County home and are the parents of two children: Andruw (named for Braves former outfielder Andruw Jones), 14, an 8th grader and member of the Helena High School Bass Club and Sarah Grace, a 12- year-old fifth grader at Helena Intermediate School. The family are members of the Riverchase campus of Church of the Highlands. Congratulations to the HMS Husky softball team and to their award-winning coach on his accomplishments not only this season, but all those seasons played while earning those 350 wins. As a famous coach from another sport once said, “He ain’t never been nothing but a winner!”
We asked a few of the 2017 Championship team parents to comment on what makes Coach Sanders such a good softball coach… “I have had 2 children play softball for Coach Sanders at Helena Middle School. I can honestly say he is the one the kindest, most honorable men I have ever met. He cares for his players as if they were family. Helena is blessed to have a man of his caliber and who is such a positive role model for not only his players but everyone he meets.” –Benji Barnett “Coach Sanders is the perfect coach for middle school age girls. He leads these young ladies by living out his testimony. His love of the game is shown through his excellent coaching and positive energy. We are so proud of the influence he’s had on our daughter and her teammates over the past two seasons.” –Randy & Kelli Bjornstad “Our daughter Sara’s experience has been very positive. Coach Sanders is dedicated to teaching the game, but also teaching his team to be loving and to lift one another up. Young women need to be taught this. He deserves to be recognized for winning ballgames, but mostly for the example he is living in front of these young women.” –Brandon and Kristi Ezekiel There aren’t enough good things you can say about Coach Sanders. He is a beacon of light in these girls’ lives. Rick and I are so proud of the influence he’s had on two of our girls and look forward to him coaching our third. This community is so blessed to have him as a teacher and coach. –Rick and Kelli Wilkins
“This team won 19 games that were shutouts. We only played three complete games all year.” Coach Mark Sanders explaining just how good this year’s HMS team really was.
Congratulations to the HMS HUSKY SOFTBALL TEAM 2017 Southern League Champions
34-1
Local Gymnast Claims Gold, Qualifies for Regional Competition
Once again, Robyn Beeman has demonstrated that she is among Alabama’s best gymnasts. At the 2017 Alabama State Optional Gymnastics Competition in Mobile on March 18, Robyn finished first on the balance beam, floor exercise and all around. She won bronze on the vault. Despite an uncharacteristic mishap on the uneven bars, Robyn claimed gold all around with a score of 36.025. In light of her performance, Robyn qualified for the 2017 United States of America Gymnas-
tics Region 8’s regional competition, which was held April 7 – 10 in Greensboro, North Carolina. During this meet, the best Level 9 gymnasts from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee competed. During the competition, Robyn scored her best floor routine of the season (9.475) despite missing one and one half weeks of practice leading into the event due to injury. Of course, Robyn is no stranger to qualifying for regionals. She
competed on Alabama’s state team as a Level 7 and a Level 8 gymnast, which means she was one of the top eight gymnasts in Alabama at each respective level. The eight different USAG Region 8 state teams competed against each other during the regional competition. Last year, Robyn qualified for regional in her first year as a Level 9 gymnast. In addition to her superlatives in gymnastics, Robyn excels academically. She is an A Honor Roll eighth grader at Helena Middle School. Further, she was recently inducted into the National Junior Honor Society.
Robyn is also committed to the work at her church – Woodland Park Church of Christ. She is a member of Woodland Park’s Youth Service Ambassadors, a group of school children dedicated to putting Christ on display by their service both at the church and in the community. Moreover, she represents Woodland Park at an annual national Bible Bowl competition held on the campus of Tennessee Tech in Cookeville, Tennessee. Robyn trains at Legacy Gymnastics in Pelham. The coaches contributing to Robyn’s success are Brianna Mitchell, Steven Mitchell, Bethany Buchanan and Sarah Griggs. Robyn aspires to compete collegiately and then devote her career efforts to practicing medicine. Her parents, Robert and Jacqueline, have called Helena home for over 20 years. They all agree that Helena really is “Where You Want to Be!” Congratulations Robyn! Keep making Helena proud and best wishes to you.
Helena United Methodist Backpack Buddies Program HMS Coach Mark Sanders and son, Andruw, enjoy fishing Buck Creek Coach Sanders let us in on a little secret. “My son and I fish Buck Creek a lot and have figured out a secret. We catch minnows with a casting net near the waterfall, then we walk down to deeper water and absolutely tear up the bass. Look at these spotted bass we caught in buck creek in March. We try artificial baits in the exact same spots and they are totally spooked by the artificial stuff.” You heard it here first, if you want to catch lots of bass in Buck Creek, use the baits the bass eat everyday. 38 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
Helena United Methodist is honored to sponsor the worthwhile Backpack Buddies program for two Helena schools. Backpack Buddies is a national program designed to fight childhood hunger. Children ages 5-14 who are recipients of the free meal program at school are discreetly served a backpack full of easy to prepare meals for the weekend. Close to 30 local eligible children at Helena Elementary and Helena Middle are served by Helena United Methodist throughout the school year. The team of over 20 volunteers from the church led by Liz Ewing, shops, sorts and packs enough food every two months to be able to deliver the food to the two schools as needed throughout each month. The church volunteers also provide additional gift bags throughout the year such as a stuffed stocking for Christmas and an Easter bag. The program is supported with donations from the church as well as community grants. Helena United Methodist is active in serving beyond the walls of the church and serves on a regular basis with many other local ministries.
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39
H E L E N A’ S C O M M U N I T Y O F FA I T H A.M.E. New Bethel A.M.E.
New Elam Baptist Church Cunningham Drive • 663-2230 Rev. Lester Sunday School 10:00 AM Morning Worship 11:00 AM
Highway 261 • 201-5531 Rev. Wilma Merriweather Sunday School 10:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 AM
Riverside Baptist Church
1919 Highway 52 W • 426-1910 Pastor Chris Wilson • rbchelena.org Sunday Worship 9:00 AM Sunday Bible Study 10:30 AM
BAPTIST CrossBridge Community Church Starkey Street (off 261) • 621-2695 Pastors Harris Cook & Bruce Squires crossbridgehelena.com Sunday Worship 10:00 AM Wednesday Prayer Service 6:30 PM
First Baptist Church Helena
815 Highway 52 E • 663-7879 Sr Pastor Greg Walker • fbhelena.org Sunday Bible Study 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM & 6:00 PM
Shiloh Baptist Church
6700 County Road 13 • 424-4539 Rev. Pete Hubhins, Jr. Pastor Sunday School 10:00 AM Sunday Worship 11:00 AM
CHRISTIAN—DISCIPLES OF CHRIST Grace Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Gospel Light Baptist Church
5781 Roy Drive • 685-0772 Pastor Steve Kilpatrick • glbcbham.com Sunday Bible Study 10:00 AM Sunday Worship 11:00 AM
Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church
Highway 261 • 663-5257 Rev. Edwin D. Dinkins • mpbchelena.com Sunday School 10:00 AM Morning Worship 11:00 AM
869 Highway 52 • 426-1233 Rev. Tommy Morgan gracechristianchurch.org Sunday School 9:00 AM Sunday Worship 10:00 AM
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ at Helena 2499 Highway 58 • 620-4575 Evgs Curtis Flatt & Bryan Moody church-of-christ.org Sunday School 9:30 AM Morning Worship 10:30 AM
EPISCOPAL Lamb of God Charismatic Episcopal
New Vision Christian Church
2383 Highway 95 • 664-4333 Pastor Van C. Houser, Sr. • nvcc4god.org 5140 County Road 17 • 378-8022 Sunday Corporate Prayer 9:00 AM Rev. Glenn E. Davis • lambofgodcec.org Sunday Worship 10:15 AM Children’s Church 10:00 AM Sunday Worship 10:00 AM
Voice of Faith Int’l Ministries
METHODIST Helena United Methodist Church 2035 County Road 58 • 663-0111 Dr. Mary Henley • helenaumc.org Worship 9AM Traditional, 11AM Contemporary
The Church at Cahaba Bend
1560 Cunningham Drive • 663-7396 Rev. Franklin L. Kirksey Sunday Worship 7:00 & 10:00 AM Thursday Bible Teaching 10:00 AM
PRESBYTERIAN Christ Community Church
3721 Highway 52 W • 621-8060 Rev. Keith Elder • cahababend.org Sunday School 9:15 AM Contemporary Worship 10:30 AM
Meets at Helena Intermediate • 621-6248 Pastor Phil Chambers • cccbham.org Sunday Worship 10:00 AM
NAZARENE Trinity Church of the Nazarene
3396 Helena Road • 663-2174 Pastor Mike Ensminger helenacpchurch.com Sunday School 9:00 AM Morning Worship 10:00 AM
Laurel Woods Dr. & Hwy 58 • 664-4659 Rev. David Shirer • nazarene.ch/trinity/ Sunday School 9:00 AM Morning Worship 10:00 AM
NON-DENOMINATIONAL Cornerstone Church 2694 Highway 58 • 663-9332 Rev. Tim Trimble cornerstonechurchhelena.org Sunday School 9:30 AM Morning Worship 10:30 AM
Helena Cumberland Presbyterian
Our community of faith offers many services and programs year-round. Please visit the church’s website for additional information about upcoming events and programs.
Attend the Church of Your Choice This Sunday!
Lauri Williams, DMD, PC Charles Bordenca, DMD 219 North First St. Alabaster, AL 35007 Phone 205.664.2130 After Hours 205.941.0631
www.AlabasterSmiles.com No representation is made that the quality of dental services provided is greater than those provided by other dentists.
40 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
Helena Market Days Saturdays at Amphitheater Park in Old Town Helena 8am-noon through August 26th
SPECIAL EVENTS EACH SATURDAY PLUS PRODUCE AND ITEMS FROM LOCAL FARMERS AND VENDORS.
Come buy local produce, browse vendor booths, watch a chef demo or cookoff, and listen to live music. New this year, additional vendors, a children’s area and food trucks.
Chef Demos held from 9:00-10:00AM
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3 Chef Hastings, Hot & Hot Fish Club Entertainment: Thomas Trussell Non Profit: LifeSouth—Give the gift of life 10 Chef Chris Vizzina, The Vizzina Group Entertainment: Leah Rose Non Profit: YMCA Pelham 17 Chef Walter Caron, Nino’s Italian Restaurant Entertainment: Intermission Non-Profit: Two by Two Rescue 24 Farm to Table Brian Puckett Entertainment: Cody-Lee Non-Profit: Decoding Dyslexia July 1 Peaches and Cream Ice Cream Day Entertainment: Jim Quakenbush Non Profit: LifeSouth—Give the gift of life 8 Farm to Table Representative TBA Entertainment: Baily Ingle Non Profit: The Miracle League of Helena 15 BBQ Cookoff 22 Entertainment: StickandStrum 29 Entertainment: Intermission Aug. 5 Entertainment: Katie Searcy Non Profit: LifeSouth—Give the Gift of Life 12 Tomato Sandwich Day Entertainment: Alicia Sherer Non-Profit: The Miracle League of Helena 19 Entertainment: Jim Quakenbush Non Profit: Jane B. Holmes Library 26 Entertainment: Intermission Non Profit: Hatching Hope
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2689 Pelham Parkway • 620-3636 MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2017
41
PLEASE PRAY FOR OUR ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY PERSONNEL… We’re the Home of the Free Because of the Brave!
SGT Jon M. Aaron USA; 4/14 K Co (DET B), Unit 43671, FPO AP 96426-3671; Al Anbar, Iraq; Karen Dickinson’s son
Petty Officer 3rd Class Justin D. Gilbert USCG, Machinery Technician; Key West, FL; Leslie’s husband, Annette & Dan Duffy’s son-in-law
Chief Petty Officer Termaine J. Pruitt USN; NAS Pensacola, FL; Termaine Jr, Trevorn, Chelicia & Tristin’s father, Janice & Austin Pruitt’s son
E-3 HTFN Alex Avery USN; USS Frank Cable, Guam; Phil & Deana Avery’s son, Maria Avery’s brother, Ken & Mary Penhale’s grandson
SSG Jay Gortney ARNG; 20th Special Forces; Iraq; April’s husband
SGT Peter J. “Pete” Reese ARNG; 152nd MP Co.; Lauren’s husband; Kai, Sam, Dalton, Brook & Kaiti’s father
PFC Zachary Barr USA: 7th Special Forces Group; Eglin AFB, FL Cynthia & Mark Barr’s son SGT Steven M. Bennett USA; Paratrooper/Rigger; Fort Benning, GA Clara & Ken Lorino’s son SFC Eric Bond USA; 82nd ABD, 1-504 PIR; Baghdad, Iraq; Paul Zimmerman’s cousin Captain Joshua Bowen USA; 1st Brigade, 4th Inf. Div.; Fort Carson, CO Tom and Susan Bowen’s son, Fallon’s husband
SGT Brooks Gray USA; Ranger; Scofield BKS, HI; John Gray’s son, Lauren & Ryan Gray’s brother SRA Brad Hubbard USAF Fort Gordon - Augusta, GA Rod & Susan Hubbard’s son SPC Michael Hubbard USA; Camp Liberty, Iraq; Ruth Meadows grandson, Kimberly’s husband, Bonnie Hubbard’s brother SPC Eric Hunley ARNG; 1/167 Inf. Bn Co. B, Operation Enduring Freedom; Afghanistan; Mike & Barbara Hunley’s son; late Chris Hunley’s brother
CPL Casey B. Reitz USMC, MCSF Battalion, King’s Bay Naval Base, King’s Bay, GA; Tom and Suzi Reitz’s son, Tommy, Joey, and Emily’s brother Personnel SPC Second Class William T. Rice USA, USS Ronald Reagan, San Diego, CA. Son of Ginger Hamilton SPC Dwight A Rosse Jr. USA; 1-32 Cav 1st Bct, Fort Campbell, KY; Dwight & Michelle Rosse’s son, Britney & Carlton’s brother SPC Patrick D. Sharp USA; 82nd ABD; Al Asad, Iraq; Shawn Sharp’s son
CPL Michael Jeffries ARNG; 1/167 Infantry Battalion Company B, Operation Enduring Freedom; Afghanistan; Amy’s husband, Colin & Gavin’s father
SPC Ashley Bruce Squires USA; 3rd Inf. Div., 1-30 Inf.; Ft. Stewart, GA; Jesi Mason Squires’s father, Bruce & Tammy son, Aubrey & Austin’s brother
LT Sarah Bowen USN; USS John Stennis Aircraft Carrier; Bremerton, WA; Tom and Susan Bowen’s daughter
MC1 Andrew “AJ” Johnson USN; Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU); Dam Neck Annex, NAS Oceana; Virginia Beach, VA.
Cpl Rodney Stephens ARNG; 152nd Military Police Task Force 382nd, Iraq; Andrea & AnnaBelle’s father
LT Jordan Bowen USA; 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Div., Ft. Hood, TX; Tom and Susan Bowen’s son
LT Commander David Kang USN; White House, Washinton, DC; Stanley & Sue Kang’s son, Sunny Kang’s brother
SRA Mitch Braswell USAF; 16th EMS, 16th Special Op. Wing; Afghanistan; Mike & Judi Braswell’s son
CW3 Corey Lefebvre USA; Fort Rucker, AL.; Tom Lefebvre’s son
PFC Zachary S Traylor USMC; 3-23 Inf; Baton Rouge, LA; Mark & Karole Traylor’s son
SGT Jacob S. Lenoir USA; Sniper Unit of 1-64 Inf; Fort Stewart, GA; Beth Eades’ son, Caitlyn’s husband
SGT John Christian Vansant USMC; VMMT 204 Flightline, MCAS; New River, NC; Keith & Sherill Vansant’s son
SRA Tanner McGinnis USAF; 90th SFS Tactical Response Force; FE Warren AFB; Cheyenne, Wyoming Ken & Jo McGinnis’ son
Major Maxwell B. Ward USAR; Afghanistan; Kathie’s husband, Maggie’s dad, Bette Ward’s son, Michelle (Lin) Saville’s brother
Captain Fallon Bowen USA; Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div.; Fort Carson, CO Tom and Susan Bowen’s daughter-in-law, Joshua’s wife
PVT Vincent Brown USMC; Chesapeake, VA; Leonetta Prevo’s son SGT Dallas C Caviness USAF; 172 Inf. Brigade; Germany; Rebecca’s husband, Norah’s father, Rhonda’s son & Devin’s brother 1st LT William B. Cofer USA; Fort Campbell, KY; Dorothy & Jim Cofer’s son, Deborah’s brother CPO Austin C. Daniel USN; Norfolk, VA; Mike & Claudia Daniel’s son, Justin, Tatum & Autumn’s brother Captain Jon P. Darrenkamp USA; Schofield Barracks, HI; Carol Darrenkamp’s son, Stephen & Eric’s brother
2LT John M Traylor, Jr USAF; 552nd TRS; Tinker AFB, OK; Mark & Karole Traylor’s son
Petty Officer 3rd Class Erik B. McKenzie USN; USS Curtis Wilber, Yokosuka, Japan; Bond & Lisa McKenzie’s son, Brooke’s brother, Megan’s husband
PFC Zachary Walton USA; 3-1 Cav. Regt. Delta Troop; Ft Benning, GA; Becky Click’s son, Alex Walton & Sydney Mollica’s brother, Amber’s husband
2nd LT Jacob Allen Meins USAF, Special Operations Command; Kathy Meins Martin’s son
FC3 William J. Welch USN; USS Lake Erie, Pearl Harbor, HI; Devinne Brooks’ husband
MSG Jacqueline M. Moore USA, 387th; Wichita, KS; Leroy E. Lucas’ wife, Cameshia, Shaun, Chibukia & Chris’ mom
E4 Spencer R. Wood USN Corpsman; Balboa Hospital; Camp Pendleton, CA Rish & Christa Wood’s son, Whitney Brown’s stepbrother
AEAN Benjamin Lee Doaks USN; NAS Jacksonville, FL; Joe & Tammy Williams’s son, Rev. Clifton & Mattie Taylor’s grandson
SSGT Christopher S. Murphy USMC; MWHS 3, San Diego, CA; Jack & Karen Murphy’s son, Alyssa’s husband
LCPL Jared M. Fitzgerald USMC; 9th Communication Battalion; Camp Pendleton; CA; Rosemarie Butler’s son and Jeff’s stepson, Justin and Tyler’s brother
LT Commander Kimberly A. Oelschlager USN; US Navy Hospital (Balboa)-Physician’s Asst., San Diego, CA; Ted & the late Sara Oelschlager’s daughter
E-mail Helena active duty military personnel’s name, address and where they’re stationed to helenacitynews@aol.com. If your loved one has returned, PLEASE let us know so that we can keep our prayer list current. Thank you!
Let our family care for yours.
As part of the largest primary care network in the state, Brookwood Baptist Health offers compassionate care all across central Alabama. Dr. Marie Pittman, Dr. James Colvard, and Haley Jost, CRNP are dedicated members of our family medicine team at Brookwood Baptist Health Primary Care - Oak Mountain. From fevers to coughs and everything in between, we’re dedicated to serving the people of our community.
James Colvard, MD
Marie Pittman, MD
Call (205) 733-1130 or visit bbhcarenetwork.com to book an appointment today.
Haley Jost, CRNP
120 Cahaba Valley Pkwy, Ste 200 Pelham, AL 35124
JUNE 12th-14th 9:00AM-12:00PM OPEN TO GRADES 1ST-7TH $75 PER CAMPER Camp will take place at the Helena High School gym. Each camper needs to wear gym shorts, tennis shoes and a t-shirt. Camp will conclude every day at 12 noon. Deadline for registration is June 2nd. Registration received after the deadline may not receive a camp Tshirt, but will still be accepted.
Camp Includes
Camp Certificate Camp T-Shirt
Helena High students place 1st at UA Science Olympiad in Tuscaloosa Adam Jusino and Jace Aldrich, juniors at Helena High School, placed 1st in the Electric Vehicle event at the Science Olympiad competition at The University of Alabama February 18th. Participants in this event designed, built and programmed a batterypowered vehicle capable of autonomously traveling a set distance and coming to a complete stop with the push of a button. Vehicles were judged on speed and stopping distance from the target point. Sounds like a couple of future entrepreneurial engineers in the making at our high school.
Contact: Amanda Lewis (205) 682-3669 a3lewis@shelbyed.org
SUBMIT REGISTRATION BELOW
Helena Volleyball Camp Registration Information
Name Grade entering Age Address Phone Parent’s Name Person to notify in case of emergency Emergency Phone Insurance Provider Email Address How did you hear about camp? (circle one) Website
List serve
HHS Volleyball Player
T-Shirt size: (circle one) YS YM YL S M L XL Medical Release
NAME
Other
I hereby release Helena High School and all its employees from all claims because of injuries, which may be sustained while my child attends the Helena Volleyball Camp. I agree to indemnify Helena High School from any claims in which may hereafter be presented by minor child as a result of and such injuries. I give permission to Helena personnel to administer first-aid and adequate medical care in the event of any injury or illness. Parent or Guardian Signature
Date Make checks payable to: Helena High School 1310 Hillsboro Pkwy Helena, al 35080
TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2017
43
calendar of EVENTS REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS
MONDAYS Police Explorers, Explorer Training Facility, 4:00-7:00PM Fire Explorers, Station 2, 5:00PM TUESDAYS Kiwanis, Helena Senior Ctr, 7:00AM; 3rd Tues. 5:30PM Story Time, Jane B. Holmes Public Library, 11:00AM Helena Lions Club meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday, Helena Senior Center 7:00PM, Visit Helena Lions Club Facebook page for more information THURSDAYS Story Time, Jane B. Holmes Public Library, 11:00AM SATURDAYS Helena Market Days, Amphitheater, 8:00-12:00PM Fresh Produce, Vendors, Live Music, and Chef Demos at 9:00AM, June 3-August 26, 2017
hbahelena.com or their Facebook page - Friend of the Library meetings, Jane B. Holmes Library, 5:45pm 12th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 14th - Summer Reading: McWane Center, City Hall, 10:30am & 2:30pm 15th - Helena Planning & Zoning, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 17th - Respite Care-special needs 0-21, free of charge but must reserve aaronsstaffrespite.org 21st - Summer Reading: Mid Summer Movies at the Library, 10:30am & 12:00pm 26th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 28th - Summer Reading: Visit with the Fire Dept., City Hall, 10:30am & 2:30pm
july
1st - First Friday on Saturday presented by the City of Helena and HBA, in Old Town with vendors, music and great food, Times to be Announced, Fireworks will begin at dark 20th - Respite Care-special needs 0-21, free of charge but must reserve 4th - Helena City Hall & Library closed in observance of Independence aaronsstaffrespite.org Day; No Garbage Collection-Republic will collect trash/recycling one day behind through Saturday 22nd - Helena Elementary 1st Grade Year End Parties - Helena Business Association Meeting, 8:00 am, for meeting site visit - Helena Intermediate H Day hbahelena.com or their Facebook page - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm - Friend of the Library meetings, Jane B. Holmes Library, 5:45pm 23rd - Helena Elementary 2nd Grade Year End Parties 5th - Emergency Siren Test, 10:00am - Helena Intermediate Talent Show: 3rd Grade am, 4th Grade pm - Summer Reading: Visit with the Police Dept., City Hall, 10:30am & 2:30pm - Support Your Library: Jane B. Holmes Public Library Spirit Night at 10th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm Marco’s Pizza 4:00pm-8:00pm 10% of all sales benefit the library - Helena High Class of 2017 Graduation, BJCC Concert Hall, TBD 12th - HIS Registration Confirmation/Proof of Residence, 2:00pm-6:00pm - Summer Reading Finale Wild West Show with Bruce Brannen, 24th - Helena Elementary Kindergarten Year End Parties City Hall, 2:30pm - Helena Intermediate 5th Grade Awards Day, 8:30am 25th - End of the 2016-17 School Year, Early Dismisal at1:00pm, HIS 12:45pm 13th - HES Summer Registration/Proof of Residence, 7:00am-11:00am & 2:00pm-6:00pm 26th - Helena High School Report Cards Mailed Home HHS Summer Registration/Proof of Residence-All Grades, 29th - City Hall & Library Closed in observance of Memorial Day 7:00am-1:00pm & 2:00pm-7:00pm Trash & Recycling will run as usual 14th HIS Registration Confirmation/Proof of Residence, 7:00am-11:00am 31st - Summer Reading Registration Begins, Jane B. Holmes Library 15th - Helena Market Days BBQ Cookoff, OT Amphitheater, 8:00am-12:00pm - Respite Care-special needs 0-21, free of charge but must reserve aaronsstaffrespite.org 17th - HIS Registration Confirmation/Proof of Residence, 7:00am-11:00am 2nd - Helena Business Association’s First Fridays & Movies in the Park in Old Town with vendors, music and great food, First Fridays 5:30pm- 18th - HIS Summer Registration, 7:00am-11:00am & 2:00pm-6:00pm - HMS Summer Registration/Proof of Residence: 6th Grade 7:00am-11:00am, 9:00pm, Movie begins at Dusk in the Amphitheater, 7:30-8:00pm 7th Grade 2:00pm-6:00pm, 8th Grade 2:00pm-6:00pm 3rd - Helena Market Days opening day, OT Amphitheater, 8:00am-12:00pm - HHS Make up Registration/Proof of Residence, All Grades, 3:00pm-6:00pm Local produce/products vendors, live music & chef demos 9:00am Chef Chris Hastings will open this year’s Market Days 19th - HES Summer Registration/Proof of Residence, 7:00am-11:00am & 2:00pm-6:00pm 7th - Emergency Siren Test, 10:00am - Summer Reading “Building a Better World” Kick Off, City Hall, 20th - Helena Planning & Zoning, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm Magician Russell Davis, 10:30am & 2:30pm 24th - HIS Makeup Registration Day, 3:00pm-7:00pm 6th - Helena Business Association Meeting, 8:00 am, for meeting site visit HMS Makeup Registration Day, 3:00pm-7:00pm
may
june
44 Late Spring 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org
The
Future is in Good Hands TREVOR SMITH, son of Michelle and Brian Smith My favorite memory from my high school days was being voted in as SGA President by the student body. Landon Genry has had the biggest influence on my life. He graduated the year before and has always been a mentor to me. He was captain of the basketball team, SGA President, graduated towards the top of his class, and always had great character. My favorite teacher was Mr. Parker. He is my AP Calculus teacher and has strong values. Apart from teaching us Calculus, he also gives frequent life lessons that really challenge us. I plan on attending Auburn and Majoring in Computer Science/Software Engineering. Once I start making a steady living, I plan on returning to college and receiving a Masters of Divinity. In 20 years I hope to have a full family and be a head pastor for a church. CANA BROWN, daughter of Stephanie Brown and James Brown My favorite high school memory is the first school play I was in. I played Abby Brewster in Arsenic and Old Lace. I met so many new people and learned so many things. Theatre overall was my favorite extracurricular at Helena. My sisters are definitely the people who have had the biggest influence on my life. My sisters have always been there for me. They support me in everything I do, and I strive to be as loving, kind and intelligent as them. My favorite teacher at Helena is Mr. Parker. Not only is he a great football coach, but he also is an amazing math teacher. He is always willing to go out of his way to help us understand complex topics. He also teaches us inspiring life lessons that I will keep with me long after high school. I will be attending the University of South Alabama majoring in Biomedical Sciences and minoring in Spanish. Twenty years from now, I hope to be a practicing Pediatric Neurologist. I will either be working in a hospital or in private practice. I also plan on doing research in the medical field. PHILIP PARKER, son of Rodney and Melynda Parker My favorite memory from my high school days is playing at the state tennis tournament for 2 years in a row. The biggest influences on my life are my parents because they encourage me to try new things and do my best at whatever that may be. My favorite high school teacher was Mrs. McKinney, because she was my teacher for two years, and I a better relationship with her than any other teacher. I plan on attending Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, and I plan to major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. In 20 years, I see myself settled down with a family. Ideally, I will be working in a lab to research cures for diseases.
Each year, the Senior Counselor and staff selects six Helena High School seniors that embody the traits that make them excellent representatives of their graduating class as well as their community. The following students share their favorite HHS memories and future plans.
BOSTON SHARP, son of Bob and Laurie Sharp My favorite high school memory would have to be being with the band in the stands on Friday nights. It was always fun cheering on the team and playing around with my closest friends. My grandfather has probably been the greatest influence on my life because I am named after him, and I know I have to carry his name with pride because of how good and caring of a person he was. Mrs. McKinney would have to be my favorite teacher just because she has helped grow as a person as well as teach me about English. This is actually funny because I originally didn’t prefer her but after two years she has definitely become my favorite. I am going to attend the University of Mississippi with a major in Mechanical Engineering and an emphasis in Manufacturing. In 20 years I see myself with a family of my own helping to run either a Remington or Toyota manufacturing plant. JARED CLEGHORN, son of Jay and Kim Cleghorn One of my favorite memories from high school is definitely of preforming the song Rock Island in The Music Man, our spring musical during my junior year. It my first time to perform in a play, and it was a blast! My parents are my biggest influence because they have always supported me in everything I’ve done. They’ve taught me so much, and I’m so thankful for everything they’ve done to help me get to where I am today. Mr. Casey is my theatre teacher; he has helped me become more comfortable with trying new things and being in front of people. He is just a great teacher and person and so much fun to be around. I will be attending the University of Alabama, where I plan to major in computer science. In 20 years I see myself probably having some kind of job in computer programming, hopefully doing work that is meaningful and that helps people and the world in some way. I also hope to have a family and, most importantly, to be happy. MAGGIE BLANTON, daughter of Jeff and Kristen Blanton My favorite memory at HHS was the run we made to play in the 5A State Softball Championship. It was a special year. My mom is one of the most influential people in my life. She instilled in me a competitive drive and has always believed in me. Mrs. Lowe is my favorite teacher, and I was privileged to have her all four years of high school. She has a heart of gold and is truly a difference maker. Her impact on the lives of students will extend far beyond the classroom. I will be attending Auburn University and intend to major in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Twenty years from now, I hope to be a successful computer engineer working in the southeast with a family of my own.
Class of 2017 HELENA HIGH SCHOOL
The day has arrived, and we want to commend each and every graduate on this major milestone—earning their high school diploma. Most importantly, we wish the Class of 2017 a future filled with happiness, good health and much success! Our caps are off to you! Alexandra Michelle Abernathy Nash Mitchel Adams Wendy Marie Aguilar Ivan Aguirre Jacuinde Madeline Nicole Akins Nicklas Taylor Allemon Saul Alvarez-Corona Brookanne Elyse Anderson Hollie Elizabeth Anderson Taylor Christine Anderson Alexis Aparicio Shelby Kaitlyn Bailey Audrey Grace Ballard Ashlyn Rebecca Barnett Caroline Elise Barrett Katherine Grace Barton Aubry Paul Bass Lauren Elizabeth Bastille Madison Elise Bearden Brandon Michael Beers Cameron Lee Beery Bradley Dean Benton Triston Drake Bessant Marjorie Ann Blanton Hayley Marie Boley Angelo O’Ryan Bonella Wesley Todd Boyle Dakota Ariel Braxton Bailey Makay Breland Justin Edward Briggins Reagan Elizabeth Bright William Brooks Brophy Brennen Wesley Brown Cana Lauren Brown Jennifer Lenae Brown Jon Edward Brown Jackson Dance O’Neal Buchanan Mallory Nichole Buffington Jacob Scott Busby Andrew Scott Bush Justin Alexander Butler Houston Richard Byrd Cole Phillip Carpenter Faith Marion Carson Amber Janay Carter Jillian Claire Carter Gerardo Casillas Jesus Javier Cebrian Mackenzie Nicole Chafin Michael Preston Chambliss
Jared Robert Cleghorn Derrick Michael Coleman Skyler Mary Conway Troy Christopher Cordrey Mario Alberto Coronel Cael Bryant Cranor Sarah Margaret Crawford Hannah Elizabeth Crowe Dayton Lee Crump William Stanford Cummings Jake Michael Daley Christionne Danyelle’ Davis Daniel Nathan Davis James Riley Davis Allison Gabrielle Dees Sydney Madison DeVoe Bailey Camille Dewberry Zachary Cole Dickerson Joshua Aaron Dickson Carolyn Lane Diehl Spencer Welch Dixon Nigel Gauthier Loja Dollentas Ainsley Catherine Edmonds Justus James Edwards Warren Deshay Edwards Sara Grace El-Feraly Nicholas Patrick Erwin Celeste Carlos Escamilla Bailey Eden Everett Garrett Alexander Farmer Wesley Edward Featherstone Arianna Dominique Festino Luis Alejandro Figueroa Perez Austin Tyler Findlay Elijah Grant Folmar Ragan Chandler Forbes Bryson Parker Fort Taylor Breanne Fowler Madison Michelle Franklin Laura Hope Fuller Robert Gage Furgerson Ashley Dawn Gardner Cole Edward Gardner Makayla Jordan Gardner Landon Thomas Gaskins Lena Neveen Ghabayen Anna Grace Gilliland Jacob Ashton Gilliland Richard Keith Ginwright II Joshua Thomas Glenn Jillian Victoria Parker Gossett
Jacob Thomas Graham Juan Andres Granados Castano Kiara Danielle Grant Erin Nicole Green Alonna Dale Greenlea Meghan Elizabeth Griffith Hunter Kyle Gruhn Anthony James Guthrie Alexandria Nichole Hales Casey Lee Alfree Hall Jacob Lee Hall Garrett Reed Hallmark Jordan Nicholas Halstead Taylor McKenzie Hampton Taylor Makenzie Handley Miranda Dale Harkins Justin Cole Harmon Brandon Tyler Harris Andrew Zachary Hatcher Joseph Van Hayes Chloe Makenzie Hervig Sara Marie Higginbotham Camryn Johanna Hill Hayden Joseph Hill Julia Campbell Hill Madison Elaine Hollabaugh Spencer Wade Hollon Skyler Tate Horton Lindsay Caroline Hull Cody Tyler Hurt Michael David Hurt Devonte Otis Jerome Jackson Smith Andrew Joseph Jimenez Daysi Gisela Jimenez Bailey Anne Johnsey Christopher Jordan Jones Kade Collins Jones Angela Paige Joyner Krystal Marie Jusino Melendez Sydney Claire Kahl Sarah Katherine Kallaher Mason Larin Kendrick Savannah Brooke Key Corey Alexander King Christopher Alexander Knox, Jr. Mary Alexandra Kortright Ian Emerson Kramer Mary Elizabeth Laatsch Jacob Andrew Lackey Bethany Paige Leader Michael Aidan-Patrick Leak
Jeremy Tyler Leath Luke Thomason Legate Samuel Stevens Lehner Kennedy Alise Lenz Sieara Mae Lester Cameron Thomas Liddell Austen Xavier Lindgren Suyi Ma Sarah Ellen Maddox Hannah Irelynn Marks Gabrielle Elizabeth Mauterer Ashlyn Lee Maxwell Mekhi Maleah Mayfield Ashlynn Grace Mays Hallie Claire McAbee John Arthur McCain Allison Kali McCugh Cirrahn La’eeq McFarland Alexis Elaine McIntosh Jarrett Walker McMeans Jurien Alexander Melonja Khushee Jay Modi Anna Grace Monroe Hannah Blake Montalbano Meagan Elizabeth Mooney Dontrell Lerrell Moore Katherine Anne Moore Alexis Jade Morandini Andrew Jared Morgan Jasmine Monique Morgan Braylon James Moss Florence Mukami Muhindi Cynthia Wambui Muriithi Austin Ryan Newman Taylor Michelle Osborn Lindsey Catherine Oxley Katie Lauren Pace Lauren Lynn Padgett Edwin Diomedis Palacios Alvarado Philip Stephen Parker Abbey Collins Paucke Haley Brook Payne Matthew Ryan Payne Brianna Alice Pennington Tiara Leigh Pennington Kelsey Elise Peterson Brandon David Phillips Miller James Phillips Stephen Keith Pitts Samuel Caleb Praytor Aszah Raen Preuc
Kylie Laine Pritchard Kerrian LaQuece Pruitt Brandon Mitchell Pugh Cade Garrison Pugh Joseph Michael Putley Baylee Nicole Quick Brady William Michael Reeder Jordan Louise Regina Jack Rutger Reid Luke Everett Rima John Thomas Ritondo III Katherine Rivera Tyler David Rizzo Julien Miller Rodriguez Laura Maddison Rodriguez Chad Christopher Rohrbach Madison Loerine Roussell Aiden Thomas Roy Isabella Grace Ryder Simal Younus Saleh Angel Arianna Sarris Mary Alisa Saville Alec Christopher Schlotzhauer Kaitlyn Breanne Sharp Robert Boston Sharp Samantha Anne Sheets Katelyn Marie Shimel Deshone Lovelle Skinner, Jr. Hamilton Pete Smith Keaton Alexander Smith Kinnidy Nicole Smith Mason Edward Smith Trevor Brent Smith Ethan Malachi Spencer Josie Adell Stafford Tyler Cole Stoker Juli Danielle Tatum Norri Amiran Tinker, Jr. Kelsey Lynne Trimble Jailah Monye Tucker Hannah Rose Turner Victoria Eleanor Turner Davis Andrew Vansandt Victoria Leigh Vansant Brennan Alyssa Vaughn Cheryl Salich Walburn Anthony James Walker Devan Lewayne Walker Tatyana Monique Walker Alexis Suzanne Wallace Brett Harris Walton Ann Muthoni Wathiru Morgan Tatyana Watkins Justin Donnavon Watson Tamar Mackenzie Watts Emma Jean Wehby William Max Wiggonton Adina Leighanne Williams Alexa Grace Williams
Nicholas Walker Williamson Brandon Maurice Wilson Jeffrey Loyd Wilson, Jr. Kristin Avionna Woods Eshaun Iman Wray Keith Lemar Wright, Jr. Shakira Yuret Courtney Alyce Zajic
Valedictorian Cana Lauren Brown
Salutatorian Robert Boston Sharp
Honor Graduates Alexandra Michelle Abernathy Audrey Grace Ballard Madison Elise Bearden Brandon Michael Beers Marjorie Ann Blanton William Brooks Brophy Andrew Scott Bush Jared Robert Cleghorn James Riley Davis Allison Gabrielle Dees Sydney Madison DeVoe Bailey Camille Dewberry Ainsley Catherine Edmonds Bryson Parker Fort Madison Michelle Franklin Lena Neveen Ghabayen Richard Keith Ginwright II Taylor McKenzie Hampton Taylor Mackenzie Handley Savannah Brooke Key Sarah Ellen Maddox Gabrielle Elizabeth Mauterer Ashlynn Grace Mays Katherine Anne Moore Philip Stephen Parker Abbey Collins Paucke Stephen Keith Pitts Aszah Raen Pruec Jordan Louise Regina John Thomas Ritondo III Madison Loerine Roussell Kaitlyn Breanne Sharp Trevor Brent Smith Kelsey Lynne Trimble Tamar Mackenzie Watts
Congratulations and best wishes!
K9 Memorial Fundraiser
A non-profit has been formed whose purpose is to raise money for a bronze statue of a German Shepard to sit atop a granite base with an etched photo of a K9 officer and his handler. Previous City of Helena K9 tombstones will be in front of this memorial honoring their service. Helena has enjoyed the service of three diligent duos of K9s and handler teams: Hasco and the late Doug Jones, Victor and Ivy Penhale, and Bak and Philip Richards, A GoFundMe account has been opened and is accepting donations which are much appreciated. The link is www.gofundme.com/supporthelenak9s. There is additional information on the nonprofit’s plans. There is a drop-box at the Police Station. If you drop off a donation here, just mention that it is for the K9 Memorial. Officer Richards daughter, Valerie Richards, is heading up the organization along with the help of Captain Ivy Penhale, a previous K9 handler. This is an wonderful opportunity for the community to come together for an amazing cause. Together we can bring this lasting tribute and landmark to our great city.
Resident attends the Grammys Helena resident, Kenneth Powe, an Old Cahaba resident since 1999, attended the 2017 Grammys this year. Kenneth said his phone died halfway through the premiere ceremony, so he didn’t get any selfies with celebs at there, but he did send us this “more or less official photo” to use. Ken is an outstanding keyboardist and recording producer and has worked for more than 25 years in the recording industry. His Contemporary Jazz Al-
bum, Conception, was considered for The 59th Annual Grammy® Awards, this year (broadcast live on CBS) in the category of Best Contemporary instrumental Album. Nominees for this category also included Herb Alpert, Chuck Loeb, and Snarky Puppy. Ken is a member of The Recording Academy, the organization that holds the Grammy® Awards annually and votes to select each Grammy® winner. Check out his website at: kenpowe.com.
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