Helena City News

Hele H elena Ciitttyy New elen Newwss Serving the City of Helena and surrounding area

Summer 2017

WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM THEIR FRIENDS

COVER PHOTO: SANDRA BULLOCK

Helena Miracle League will build their ball field

HELENA HUSKIES FOOTBALL SCHEDULE INSIDE PAGE 44 Husky Day Saturday, August 19, Husky Stadium, 7 p.m.

HELENA MIDDLE SCHOOL SAYS WELCOME TO NEW PRINCIPAL

Andrew Gunn comes to Helena after spending 3 years at Chelsea Middle

TWO HELENA RESIDENTS NAMED TO TOP 50 OVER 50

Helena High Band BoosterPeter Bosworth and Dr. David Faber honored at dinner.

www.MyHelenaCityNews.com / www.CityofHelena.org

FROM THE MAYOR Crumpton. The event raised almost $1800 for the Helena Miracle League Project.

Greetings!

Summer events have enjoyed tremendous success this year as we get prepared to welcome a new school year beginning in August.

The July Fireworks show, sponsored by the HBA and First Friday, were great! Thanks to Jim Wathen and his volunteers who work hard to make the First Friday events happen. They have been a big success, drawing hundreds to the Old Town area.

The Farmers Market, managed

by Scott Newman and other volunteers, has done a superb job this year coordinating the sale of fresh fruits and vegetables and presenting great events like the Chef of the Week and the annual Best Butt Cook-off coordinated this year by volunteer Brian

The Miracle League Project is coming along well in the early stages, and I know they appreciate the community’s efforts at the BBQ contest and the recent Food Truck Rally, coordinated by the HBA and volunteer Andy Healy.

Both helped raise much needed funds. We will continue to assist Mary Chambliss and the Miracle League group as they work toward making this outstanding project become a reality.

The City Youth League football and fall sports leagues are about to get started at the Parks and Recreation Department. We look forward to another great fall season here. Park Director Bill Miller is coordinating the addition of 100 new parking spaces at the Sports Complex and will begin the bid process for a new youth soccer field to be built there as well.

Great to see that the new Waffle House near Walgreens

MAYOR

Mark R. Hall

CITY COUNCIL Mike Jones, Council President Hal Woodman, Pro Tempore Leigh Hulsey Laura Joseph Alice Lobell

CITY CLERK Amanda Traywick

2 Summer 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org

will open soon, bringing a new flavor to Helena that will help keep some of the much needed tax dollars here in our city.

Waffle House officials tell me the restaurant will be open late August/early September. We will continue to look for more retail to boost our economy and add jobs to our community.

In other news, I am still 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.

The project will last through the fall months until completed.

I immediately instructed our police chief to use everything at his disposal to make arrests in this case. Helena is a community that is open and inclusive to all, no matter what your race, religion or personal beliefs are, and we will not tolerate criminal acts based upon prejudice or hatred that may arise from that. Both my office and our police department will work hard to maintain that God given right for all. Thank you to all that responded with love and assistance to the family that was affected. You help prove again that Helena is a great and wonderful community in which to live!

Lastly, a big thanks to all our hard working city council members for your dedication and support as we work to make Helena the place you want to be!

I hope you all have a great start to the school year, and I’ll see you at Husky Stadium on Friday nights!

In closing, I feel the need to say I was very disappointed to see one of our residents suffer from a felonious act of hate and vandalism of their property recently.

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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HUSKY DAY HELENA MIDDLE SCHOOL

Helena Middle School Enjoys Husky Day 2017 with FUN and GAMES! Husky Day is always a fun time for the students and faculty at Helena Middle School. This year was no different. The students enjoyed carnival rides, a fun and popular photo booth, Kona Ice, and thrilled to splashing coaches and teachers in the dunking booth. And they always enjoy having their friends and teachers sign their Husky Day t-shirts generously provided again this year

by Husky booster, Dr. Priscila Denny of Oak Mountain Orthodontics. Enjoy the rest of your summer Huskies!

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Smooth Jazz takes over Old Town on a lazy July Sunday Afternoon

Jazz in the Park founder Bernard Lockhart said over the years, the organization has expanded to many municipalities offering the free jazz concerts. He praised the city of Helena for their interest in the organization and jazz music.

The evening started out with jazz from the Joe Carnaggio Trio and set the mood for Phil Denny, smooth jazz saxophonist from Lansing, Michigan, who served as the evening’s finale.

Denny, has performed internationally from Dubai to Kenya to Arizona, and Helena audiences were taken with his impressive artistry, presence and passion.

Denny played both jazz covers and his own original music and made his CDs, Upswing and Crossover, available to the public after the concert.

Thanks to Newcastle Homes, the city’s title sponsor and Mayor Mark Hall for helping bring this family friendly event back to town this year.

First Friday on Saturday in July with fireworks added in for fun This year, Helena residents got a twofer: First Friday organizers, the Helena Business Association and the City of Helena pitched in to July’s first Friday on Saturday, July 1st and combine it with the city’s annual Independence Day fireworks display. HBA organizers kicked into gear, with George Alterations selling t-shirts and the HBA soliciting and accepting monetary donations to make this year’s Independence Day fireworks show the best ever.

Judging by the fireworks show, they did just that.

Hats off to everyone who had a hand in putting this family friendly community event together!

IF ONLY WE HAD

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Meet Frank and Janet Lakotich Helena residents and U.S. Air Force veterans

Helena resident Frank Lakotich grew up in Joliet, Illinois. Frank’s buddy decided they’d go into the service after graduating from high school on the Buddy Program, but when the buddy failed his physical in Chicago, he got sent home for a skin rash and Frank boarded a plane for Lackland AFB, Texas, where he went through eight weeks of basic training.

“I was in the best shape of my life after those eight weeks,” said Frank.

Frank was selected for the Radio/ TV production career field, but the school for that at Lowery AFB, Colorado, was temporarily closed, so they sent him to Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Mississsippi. The new television studio was not completed there yet, so the Air Force staff sent Frank to 16 weeks of electronics school instead.

“This was in 1961. I got orders to Osan AFB, Korea, just after completing the electronics school.

After a few days at Osan, I was reasigned to Pusan, Korea, where I worked on a U.S. Army radio station as an announcer,” said Frank.

Turns out he’d gotten lots of on the job broadcast training for that

at Keesler working the “Bed Pan Circuit,” as they called it (the studio was in the hospital there).

“I cued up records and did announcing during my time in Korea. From our site at Pusan, our sound waves broadcast on water out about 500 miles.”

“After my tour was over, I applied for duty in Weisbaden, Germany, but a week after arriving there, I was reassigned to a joint Air Force/ Navy air station in Turkey. A room in the barracks served as our studio for the half watt FM radio station.

We were not supposed to broadcast off the perimeter of the air station, but I know for a fact that our music reached Istanbul via the surrounding sea. I later heard some of our American music played back and Radio Istanbul didn’t edit out our announcing intros over the beginning of the songs,” Frank laughed. “They just loved American music.”

Frank was in Turkey about nine months before receiving a temporary duty assignment (TDY) to Iraklion Air Station, Crete in 1964. It was on Crete that Frank became roommates with another Air Force DJ who went

on to have a movie written about him featuring some of the experiences he’d have later in Vietnam, Adrian Crounauer. (Good Morning Vietnam where Adrian was played by Robin Williams.)

“Adrian had joined the Air Force to avoid the draft; he already had a professional broadcasting career before joining,” said Frank. “He did the morning shows and I manned the mic in the afternoon. He taught me a lot. We did all our own jingles.

At 6p.m., he did live television news and I did the sports on the Air Force television station.”

Adrian had a choice to go to Korea or Vietnam after Crete, and he chose Vietnam where he served from 1965-1966.

Frank said he kept in touch with Adrian some in later years, and that Adrian said he’d tried to sell his experiences in Vietnam as a television series, like MASH, but once a producer signed Robin Williams to the starring role, the movie, Good Morning Vietnam was pretty much set in stone.

Adrian told him that the movie was about 60 percent true. The

bombing in the hotel was real. Adrian signed up for a 12-month tour, did that and went home. There was no reenlistment drama as portrayed in the movie.

It was back to Turkey after Crete for Frank, and when his tour was up the next year, he was sent to Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama, where he reenlisted for four more years.

“I worked part time while off-duty on Sundays for a Country Western radio station in Montgomery called WMGY,” said Frank. “My DJ name was Frank Lockett. I guess it sounded more country to them,” he chuckled.

“I also bar-tended Friday and Saturday nights on-base at the Airman’s Club.”

It was during this stint in Montgomery that Frank met his wife, Janet, also in the Air Force working in Medical Administration.

“I had just earned my E5 stripes and after a conversation with her, asked her if she would sew them on for me. She obliged. We had dinner and started dating.”

It wasn’t long before Frank was ordered back to Turkey. “I didn’t want to leave the Wisconsin girl alone

These days, Frank stays busy volunteering with the libraries in Helena and Pelham and with American Legion Post 555 which serves this area, while Janet keeps up an award winning look in their Dearing Downs yard and enjoys making works of art using cross stitch.

Here they are in their earlier days serving their country in the Air Force where Frank worked as a radio DJ and Janet worked in medical administration.

Shown above left, Frank in the 1980s with his former Air Force roommate and DJ partner, Adrian Cronauer, the real life subect of the movie starring the late Robin Williams, “Good Morning Vietnam.” here in Alabama,” Frank said with a grin. “So I asked her to marry me. She said yes, so we went up to Wisconsin for the wedding. We came back through Joliet to see my family and spend Christmas and then shipped off for Turkey as a family in late December.”

“Talk about culture shock, we had Christmas in Illinois and New Year’s in Turkey with their strict Islamic culture.

The Air Station we were stationed at was in the rural part where they hold to a very strict adherence to their traditions.”

“We had music shipped in to us once a week from Los Angeles. It was all tame with none of the protest music of the time, of course. We were required to play every type of music to please every audience.”

“Janet was the first enlisted Air Force female on her Air Station, and that took some getting used to by some of the staff,” said Frank.

She bore the couple’s first daughter, Regina, while in Turkey. (Even though Regina has dual citizenship today, she has never been back there, said Frank.)

It wasn’t long before the family was

reassigned back stateside, and Frank was sent to Bergstrom AFB in Austin, Texas, where he prepared hometown news releases he would record after interviewing war vets returning home from Vietnam and Thailand. He’d send the recorded audio tapes to their hometown radio stations. He says the one he did on Doc Blanchard, an army officer who won a medal in Vietnam, is probably the one he remembers best. (During his college years at the US Military Academy at West Point, Doc was the first junior to win the Heisman Trophy.) “He only wanted to discuss the war and wasn’t much interested in talking about football, is the one thing that sticks out most,” said Frank.

“Our son, Frank III, was born in Texas. Next April, he’ll have his 30 years in the Air Force, with several tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan plus one in Kuwait to his credit.”

Frank Lakotich III is currently an E9 stationed at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland.

After Frank’s Air Force days, he says he had a job offer at a radio station in Joliet, but it didn’t come with

insurance, so Frank found himself working at the Joliet Works of US Steel.

He worked in their personnel department taking pictures and doing press releases and things like that for them.

The couple had their third daughter, Jenifer, about a year later in Joliet.

“I’d offer the military as a great way for a young person to get a step up in life these days,” said Frank. “I got an associate’s degree at Joliet JC, my bachelor’s at Lewis University and continued on from there, working nights while getting my masters in business there, too, all on the GI Bill.

You can’t beat that.”

Transferred within the steel industry, Frank and Janet made several moves before finally retiring in 2010 with O’Neal Steel in Birmingham as their Corporate Safety Manager.

“We settled on our home when I joined O’Neal in a new subdivision in Helena called Dearing Downs back in 1990,” said Frank.

Since retiring, Frank works part time for the National Safety Council

teaching defensive driving courses.

He is a volunteer with the friends of the Helena Library and the Pelham Library Guild. Frank is very active in American Legion Post 555 which serves the Pelham, Helena and Alabaster area primarily.

He is post trustee, is on the events committee and is a member of the post’s honor flag detail. Frank is also a member of the BlueStar and the Alabama National Cemetery Support Committees, the group that puts flags and Christmas wreaths on military graves and helps with other remembrance activities.

Frank and Janet have four grandchildren and six great grandsons.

Janet takes care of the great grandkids and does a beautiful job with the yard. (Nomination for yard of the month here.) She also enjoys doing cross stitch in her spare time.

Thank you to the Lakotichs for the outstanding service they gave to our country. Salute!

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Meet Bill Carpenter, Vietnam Vet, Snap Fitness client Bill, a resident of the Port South community (just across from Snap Fitness Helena) for the past 38 years, says he had become basically disgusted with everyday living.“I was just in a bad place emotionally,” he said.

At 73 years of age, Bill is retired from Verizon and is a Vietnam Vet who deals with occasional bouts of PTSD. He credits his wife, Elaine, with alerting him to a part of their health insurance that pays for gym memberships for its members as part of its preventative medicine program.

“I can just about walk across the street and be in the gym,” he said,“so

I thought I’d head over one day and give it a look.”

While there, Bill met Jackie Droxler, Snap’s lead trainer, who is known for meeting clients where they are and designing plans to help get them to where they want to be.

“To be honest, I just wanted to feel like getting up in the morning,” said Bill.“I had no desire to turn into Charles Atlas.”

Jackie set Bill up on a 3-days-aweek plan to get him started, and Bill says he’s been a believer ever since.

“It’s like a family there, it’s clean, well maintained and somebody is

always there to help you if you have a question about one of their many strength and flexibility machines.”

Bill’s program starts with stretching for 3-4 minutes, about 10 minutes on a stationary bike and then about 20 minutes on the lower body machines one day, upper body machines the next and on the third day, I work on both the upper and lower body machines in addition to my stretching and bike riding.

“The thing I like about Jackie was how he took the time to get to know me, to find out exactly how bad of shape I was in before he designed my

workout program. I’ve started out slow, and it’s worked like a charm.

The biggest benefit and the most important to me has been my mood enhancement, you can’t put a high enough value on that. I have also noted a general reduction in the daily aches and pains associated with being a 73-year-old retired Vietnam Army Vet. I suddenly find myself doing more and feeling better about it.”

And Bill has picked up a work out partner as a side benefit.Wife Elaine, a retired 7th Grade English teacher, has begun joining in the fun with him at Snap Fitness Helena.

Are you feeling a lack of energy or motivation? Need a jump start?

Come in today to get on the right track to a healthier you!

Fannie Flagg, Tony Nathan and Helena residents, Peter Bosworth and Dr. David Faber, recognized at “Top 50 Over 50” gala Top 50 Over 50 honors 50 individuals over 50 who have made a difference in Alabama Actress, comedian and author, Fannie Flagg, along with football legend, Tony Nathan and two Helena residents, Peter Bosworth and Dr. David Faber are among those “Top 50 Over 50” honored at a gala Thursday, July 27, 2017 at 6 p.m. at The Club.

“Top 50 Over 50” recognizes individuals who have made a difference in their communities and touched the lives of others.

“Top 50 Over 50” is sponsored

by Positive Maturity, Inc., a United Way partner agency whose mission is to enhance the lives of older adults through civic engagement and social services.

Patricia Neal, known professionally as Fannie Flagg, is an American actress, comedian and author. Known as a regular panelist from the 1973-82 versions of the game show Match Game, she also is known for the 1987 novel Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe, which was adapted into the movie, Fried Green Tomatoes in 1991. Flagg was nominated for an Academy Award for the screenplay adaptation of the book and won the highly regarded Scripter Award for best screenplay.

Tony Curtis Nathan, born December 14, 1956, is a former American football running back.

During his sophomore year, Tony Nathan became one of the first black football players at Woodlawn High School in Birmingham. The story of his high school career and college

recruitment was made into the film known as “Woodlawn,” released in 2015.

Nathan played college football at the University of Alabama and was selected in the third round (61st overall) of the 1979 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins, with whom he played from 1979 to 1987. Nathan was inducted into the Senior Bowl Hall of Fame in 2006, along with Curtis Martin and Michael Strahan.

Peter Bosworth moved to Helena after a 20-year career in the Royal Navy. As Program Director of the UAB Geriatric Education Center, and now the Office of Interprofessional Curriculum, he has been involved in the implementation of several Interprofessional and Community Education programs. Peter is a member of Pack 326 and Troop 226, and for the last five years, he has been Vulcan District Commissioner. He has also served on the board of the Girl Scouts of North Central Alabama. With his wife Ilean, he is the co-chair of fundraising for the Helena High School Band Boosters.

Dr. David Faber graduated in 1981 from the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. He then went to The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine for his Psychiatric training and served as a chief resident. He is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

and is a Fellow of The American Psychiatric Association. Since completion of his training, he has practiced psychiatry in several areas including Forensic and Administrative psychiatry.

Chemical dependency is more than a medical interest; this disease has touched him and his family personally, and he knows well both the challenges and rewards of recovery.

Originally from North Carolina, he lives in Helena with his wife and neurotic dogs. He has been practicing in Helena since 2006. In his free time, his hobbies include woodworking and bee keeping.

To learn more about Positive Maturity programs, call (205) 803-3211 or log onto www.top50over50.com.

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13

FOOD TRUCK RALLY Thanks to all who are helping make Helena’s Miracle League a reality!

On a warm Saturday in June, Alan Farmer’s Motorcycle Supply Store staged a ride to help raise money for a Miracle League ball field to be built.

That afternoon, the Helena Business Association sponsored a Food Truck Rally at the Helena Sports Complex. Andy Healey secured a live remote broadcast from The Peach (97.7 FM), and members of the Miracle League held a 2-inning exhibition game.

The motorcycle ride and food truck rally brought in a little over $3,700. It was a great day with the food trucks running out of food. The ball game was a blast for all the kids, mentors and spectators; smiles all around!

We are already planning on another motorcycle ride October 28, more details to come soon. Some of the new and exciting things that are coming up for our Miracle League…

We will be at the First Friday event in Old Town Helena August 4.

A couple of the board members went to a Miracle League orientation in June, and we have already picked out the turf for our field. We got some extra pointers to move us forward towards our goal. It’s so exciting to see this happening right here in Helena!

One of the things that was recommended was that we purchase our mascot, Homer. Homer can help us raise funds and bring awareness to the miracle league. He will attend community events, visit local schools and be in the annual Helena Christmas Parade. Thanks to those who have already donated and/or helped us out in any way. We are so thankful for everyone. Some of our special helpers are: John Burch, Emmanuel and Kristi Scozzaro, the

City of Helena and Mayor Mark Hall. Our corporate sponsors have been so supportive: Newks, Motorcycle Supply Store, Alterations by George, Scozzaro Law LLC, Stewardly Financial, Pub 261, Rio’s Bar and Grill, Gallini Group, Soccer Shots, Beef O’Brady’s, The HBA, Deidra Jones Accountant, Karen Miller AllState Agency, and so many others.

We are excited that we are finally putting together an email list to mail out to everyone. If you would like to be on this list, please send your name and email to: Helenamiracles@hotmail.com.

Please like our Facebook page @ Helena Miracle League to keep up with new information.

Rio’s Bar and Grill has been doing Bingo on Tuesday nights to raise money for our league. Thanks to Crystal and all those who come out on Tuesday nights to play Bingo! It really adds up…

If you would like to make a monetary donation to help us in our cause to build a special needs ball field in Helena and purchase a mascot to help this along, please visit our Go-Fund-Me site @ www.gofundme.com/homerfund.

Finally, On Oct. 9, we will have our 1st Annual Miracle League Golf Tournament at Timberline in Calera, 8 a.m. start. $400 for a team of 4. We are in need of players, sponsorships, and hole sponsorships. We are also looking for prizes, so if any business would like to donate a prize, please contact Helena Miracle League on Facebook or email us at Helenamiracles@hotmail.com.

Thank you in advance for helping us make The Miracle League Field in Helena a reality!

Helena’s most distinctive neighborhood With generous rolling landscapes, beautiful public areas, old hardwood shade trees and spacious, executive style homes, Riverwoods is the place you want to be.

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We provide after school pickup in Alabaster, Helena and Pelham and offer reasonable rates for after school care, summer care and holiday programs for children kindergarten through 12 years of age. We also provide infant care, preschool and private kindergarten. Call us today!

Helena 10U Legends play well in World Series in Gulf Shores

Summer Car Heat Safety We all have forgetful moments at times. We may forget our cell phone or misplace our keys, but what happens if you forget your sleeping baby is left in the back seat of the car? Or what if you decide to leave your baby in the car while you run inside for “just a minute?”

Hot vehicles are the primary non-crash, vehicle-related killer of children under the age of 14, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 2016, 39 U.S. children died from hyperthermia or heat stroke while in automobiles.

When the outside temperature is 85 degrees Fahrenheit, the temperature inside a car can reach 114 degrees in just 20 minutes. This can quickly raise body temperature to dangerous levels. Cracking a window open and parking in the shade are not sufficient safeguards. A child’s body heats up three to four times faster than an adult’s body.

Children’s of Alabama has joined the national initiative, ACT, which educates the public about the dangers of leaving a child in a hot car.

ACT stands for: • Avoid heat stroke related injury and death • Create reminders • Take action Avoid heat stroke-related injury and death by never leaving your child alone in the car, not even for a minute. Always lock your doors and trunk so a child doesn’t climb into a hot car without you knowing.

Create reminders for yourself by placing something you’ll need at your destination, like a cell phone, next to the child safety seat. This can be a helpful reminder on a chaotic day.

Take action. If you see a child left alone in a car, call 911 immediately. Emergency personnel are trained to respond to these situations.

For more information, visit safekids.org or childrensal.org/childpassengersafety.

It’s always a team effort, and the enthusiastic members of Helena’s 10U Legends were at First Friday this month in front of their team banner raising funds for their trip to the World Series in Gulf Shores.

The Legends All Star team compiled a 13-3 record during their All Star run, then went 11-1 in area tournaments and won the Area Championship on June 17th.

The hard work and dedication of the Legends’ three talented pitchers, Marlee Parsons (She-Devil), Jocelyn Fulmer (J.J.) and Morgan Howland (Mo) helped them stay competitive.

“It’s been seven years since a 10U Helena Team has won the Area Championship,” Coach Sprouse said. “Our two ace pitchers, Marlee Parsons and Jocelyn Fulmer, led us to the 11-1 Area Championship.”

“Winning the Area Championship and compiling the 11-1 record gave us the #2 overall seed in the state tournament the weekend of June 24-25 and gave us a Top 9 finish against teams from all over the state.”

Catchers Hannah Williams, Anna Grace Johnson and Lola Wade worked with their pitchers to build a relationship based on trust and honesty. The catchers did a great job keeping their pitchers focused and motivated.

Also, six batters who batted over .600 for the All Star tournaments were: Hannah Steele, Harmony Williams, Hannah Williams, Anna Grace Johnson, Jocelyn Fulmer and Baleigh Prestage.

“Every girl on the team made a contribution at some point that helped us put together this unbelievable run to the Area Championship,” Coach Sprouse stated.

In the World Series, the Legends advanced to day 3 of the tournament, but came up a little short against West Mobile. Helena finished in the top 8 at the USSSA 10U World Series though, and that’s a wonderful accomplishment.

Members of the Helena 10U (age 10 and under) team are: Marlee Parsons, Jocelyn Fulmer, Kanadi Sprouse, Baleigh Prestage, Lola Wade, Mallory West, Hannah Williams, Harmony Williams Hannah Steele, Anna Grace Johnson, Savannah Piazza, Maggie Borst and Morgan Howland.

Head Coach: Rick Sprouse Pitching Coach: Sue Parsons Assistant Coaches: Brandi Storey, Jeffrey Fowler, Tony Johnson and Todd Borst Congratulations Legends on a great season!

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Summer 2017

17

PELHAM’S NEWEST SWIM COMMUNITY! Donovan Builders, LLC, is an established, high quality homebuilder.

You expect more in a Donovan home.

Jack Donovan stakes his reputation on every home he builds, and it shows in the craftsmanship on display. From elegant, coffered ceilings to traditional, old world wood cabinetry and flooring, tile showers, granite tops and elegant fixtures throughout, features in Donovan homes are usually only found in homes with a much higher price.

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New Eagle Scout Project Watson Rice manned a booth at the July First Friday to help fund his Eagle Scout project, A health and wellness improvement plan for the walking trail at Joe Tucker Park. The following was taken from his Go Fund Me page at www.gofundme.com/riceeaglescoutproject…

Jimbo Barrett, Owner 904 Belcher Drive, Pelham

(Take Highway 31 to Lighting & Lamp, turn right onto Belcher Drive, 1 block on right)

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LEE ST.

BEARDEN RD INDUSTRIAL PK DR

Hello!

I am Watson Rice, a Life Scout currently working toward Eagle in Boy Scout Troop 532 in Helena, AL, which is a boy led troop utilizing the Patrol Method, the Scout Law and Oath, and leadership development.

An Eagle Scout Project is the opportunity for a Boy Scout to demonstrate leadership of others while performing a project for the benefit of his community.

Considering how Joe Tucker Park could improve public health and human services in the area, my Eagle Project Plan is to provide health and wellness workout stations along the walking trail.

I am raising funds for the Fit-Trail® systems which are self-guided and self-paced exercise stations that comfortably accommodate one person or a group of people.

My goal is for the Joe Tucker Park walking trail to utilize scientifically designed exercises with walking or jogging to provide a well-balanced physical fitness routine for the entire body.

Ten individual exercise stations spaced along the walking/jogging trail where the participant proceeds from one exercise station to the next and performs the tasks illustrated at each site is my plan.

These systems are designed for users of all ages and fitness levels. Of course, if individual users are unable to perform any of the exercises, they can simply pass them by and go on to the next exercise station. $10,000 is required to fund my Eagle Scout Joe Tucker Heath & Wellness Trail Project. 100% of those funds will be used to purchase the Trail Fit system and building materials needed to provide areas to perform each workout station.

Thank you for your consideration and the opportunity to improve my community through a health and wellness project that will provide safe areas to exercise for all ages and fitness levels.

Checks may also be mailed; please indicate “Rice Eagle Scout Project” in memo section. Checks should be made out to: Boy Scout Troop 532 690 Rosebury Road, Helena AL 35080 Please help spread the word!

621-8828

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TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Summer 2017

19

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 Center, 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, now-August 26, 2017

august 1st - Helena Business Association Meeting, 8:00 am, for meeting site visit hbahelena.com or their Facebook page - Friends of the Library meeting, Jane B. Holmes Library, 5:45pm 2nd - Husky Camp for Incoming 6th Graders, HMS, 8:00am-10:00am - Emergency Siren Test, 10:00am 3rd - Local Schools Professional Development Day - Helena Elementary New Kindergarten parent meetings, 6:30pm, beginning in the cafeteria 4th - Local Shelby County Schools System Professional Development - HBA presents First Friday, Old Town, food, vendors & more, 5:30-9:00pm - HBA sponsored Movies in the Park—Sing! (last movie of 2017), Amphitheater Park, 8:00pm 7th - Local Schools, Teacher Workday - Helena Elementary Meet the Teacher Day: 2nd 8:00-8:45am; 1st 8:45-9:30am; Kindergarten 9:30-10:15am 1st & 2nd grade students & parents should go to the cafeteria first for a short meeting, before going to their classroom.

Kindergarten students & parents may go directly to their classroom.

- Helena Intermediate Meet the Teacher: 5th 11:00-11:45am; 4th 12:00-12:45pm; 3rd 1:00-1:45pm 8th - Shelby Co. Schools First Semester begins of the 2017-18 School Year - Helena Utility Board meeting, Community Services Bldg, 5:00pm 11th - Helena Elementary PTO Welcome Back Picnic, 5:30pm 14th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 15th - Helena Intermediate 3rd Grade Parent Academy, 6:00-7:00pm 17th - Helena Planning & Zoning, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 19th - Respite Care-special needs 0-21, free, but must reserve, aaronsstaffrespite.org 20 Summer 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org

22nd - Helena Intermediate McDonald’s Pancake Social, Cafeteria, 5:00-7:00pm - Helena Elementary 1st Grade Parent/Guardian ONLY meeting, 6:30pm 24th - Helena Intermediate 4th Grade Parent/Guardian Academy, 6:00-7:00pm 25th - Helena Elementary Picture Day 26th - Last Helena Market Day of 2017, 8:00am-12:00pm 28th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 29th - Helena Elementary PTO FR Kona Ice $3 may be purchased after lunch - Helena Elementary 2nd Grade Parent/Guardian ONLY meeting, 6:30pm 31st - Helena Intermediate 4th Grade Parent/Guardian Academy, 6:00-7:00pm

september 1st - HBA presents First Friday, Old Town, food, vendors & more, 5:30-9:00pm 4th - Labor Day Helena City Hall, Library & Schools closed; No Garbage Collection-Republic will collect trash/ recycling one day behind through Saturday 5th - Helena Business Association meeting, 8:00am, for meeting site visit hbahelena.com or their Facebook page - Friends of the Library meeting, Jane B. Holmes Library, 5:45pm 6th - Emergency Siren Test, 10:00am 7th - Helena Intermediate Picture Day 8th - Helena Elementary PTO-Spirit Day, Donate $1 wear red, white & blue 11th - Patriot Day - Helena Intermediate Coin Drop Sept. 11-15 - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 12th - Helena Elementary Kindergarten Parent/Guardian ONLY Academy, 6:30pm - Helena Utility Board meeting, Community Services Bldg, 5:00pm 16th - Respite Care-special needs 0-21, free of charge but must reserve aaronsstaffrespite.org 18th - Helena Elementary Wildwest Bookfair Sept. 18-22 19th - Helena Elementary Family Night @ the Bookfair, 4:00pm 21st - Autumn begins - Helena Planning & Zoning, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm - Helena Elementary Room Parent meeting, 6:30pm 25th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 26th - Helena Intermediate Marco’s Pizza for Thought, 4:00-8:00pm

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Brenda “Tilly” Toole

Helena Elementary Child Nutrition Professional retires

ALTADENA SQUARE • (205) 298-8711 CHELSEA (NARROWS) • (205) 981-4534 CRESTLINE • (205) 957-0870 HELENA • (205) 621-8822 HOOVER • (205) 403-8701 MOODY • (205) 640-0257 Brenda “Tilly” Toole, born the oldest of six children in Hartford, Alabama, attended Eufala High School. After high school, she went on to graduate from G.W. Junior College. Soon after, Tilly found herself working in the employment office in the capital building in Montgomery. Tilly worked there until 1992, when she moved to Shelby County with her husband, John.

The two have been married since 1972, and have been fortunate to travel and see the world.

In 1992, Barbara Lovelady hired Tilly to her first child nutrition professional job. The two still remain dear friends today.

Tilly’s first experience in cooking was in her mother’s kitchen. Tilly would come home from school and talk with her mother about her day while watching her prepare dinner.

Tilly was learning many of the tools she would need later in life to serve her in the nutrition field.

Tilly’s family and friends would tell you her chocolate pound cake

is her greatest feat in cooking. It may be, but Tilly might tell you that would be feeding 300 to 400 children in a two-hour time slot!

Tilly is a familar and friendly face around town; children may be seen running up and hugging her; they know her like they know her cooking. The children may not know that she walks everday and during her walks, she prays over the children, their families and the school, but they know she is a kind soul with a delicious meal she’s ready to serve.

After 25 years of crashing pots and pans in the morning, and all the racket a kitchen can make while preparing hundreds of meals, Tilly is retiring. She has earned her quiet mornings ahead drinking coffee on her porch, “listening to the birds,” as she describes it.

Tilly Toole, the City of Helena thanks you for your commitment to Helena’s children and the valuable work you’ve provided our community!

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Summer 2017

21

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Annual July event a real crowd pleaser

Best Boston Butt cookoff 2017 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15, 2017

Hats off to Brian Crumpton who organized this year’s Best Boston Butt in Helena barbecue cookoff.

Proceeds from this year’s event went to the Miracle League of Helena.

Everyone left having tasted some of the best barbecue around, and the smiles on their faces proved it.

Thanks to the Helena Belles for serving at yet another Helena family-friendly event.

The judges this year included District 73 House Representative Matt Fridy, Holly Whitt from North Alabama’s Whitt’s Barbecue empire, and Helena’s own Mayor Mark Hall.

This year’s winners of the cookoff were: • People’s Choice - The Que’s Brothers (raised $692) • Judges Choice - Driveway Boyz BBQ The total raised this year by all cookoff teams was $1,633.51. Three young ladies at the event, Lizzy Stokes, Ava Claire Kelly & Avery Armstrong raised $91.50 by themselves!

Thanks to all who came out and enjoyed the cookoff—you helped a most worthy cause!

JANE B. HOLMES

PUBLIC

Close-Out Party for Adult Patrons

Student Appreciation Event

Lego

LIBRARY

Good day to you!

As you read this, the summer reading program at the library will be coming to a close. Helena has had great participation in our program this year, and we congratulate EVERYONE who read this summer!

Also, special thanks to the library staff and volunteers who make our program possible, and to the City of Helena for all of their help and support.

Most of all, it is the residents of the City who visit often and read that make our library a neat place to visit.

Make sure to stop by and get a library card or update your current information so you will be ready for the school year. Remind your parents that you need a library card for help with homework and to check out books for pleasure. It is important to READ! And it’s FUN! For you Non-Fiction lovers (we know you are out there), the library has received some great new material courtesy of the LSTA grant administered through the Alabama Public Library Service. Look for displays and information on a host of subjects.

Biographies, cooking, staying in shape, careers and business—it’s all here at your local public library.

The library staff worked very hard to research and choose these new non-fiction materials such as books, books on CD, and DVDs. So visit soon and see what is new!

The library also has some great programs scheduled for the late summer/early fall.

Come on in and check these out: 8/1/2017 at 5:45 PM: Friends of the Library Meeting. Please call the library at 664-8308 and ask for Dan Dearing for more info. Learn about supporting your local library.

8/3/2017 at 4:00 PM: Student Appreciation Event: Enjoy FREE school supplies!

8/28/2017 – 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM: Lego Fun! Come build Lego friendships and creations!

9/4/2017 – Library Closed – Labor Day 9/7/2017: Cookies and Coloring – 6:00PM – 6:45 PM – Color, De-stress and meet new friends! FREE cookies.

The library sometimes adds new events, so make sure to visit and get a calendar or view the events online at www.cityofhelena.org click on the left side for library. Some things to be on the lookout for: Saturday Morning cartoons, a book sale, and an evening story time!

JANE B. HOLMES PUBLIC LIBRARY • 230 Tucker Road, Helena AL 35080 • 205-664-8308

Fun!

Great New Books!

Cookies & Coloring

205-664-8308 • Visit us @ www.cityofhelena.org

Great New Books!

New Movies:

FICTION:

John Wick 2 - Keanu Reeves The Lego Batman Movie - Animated Comedy The Vampire Diaries - The Eighth and Final Season Bones - The Final Chapter (Season 12) Beauty and the Beast - Emma Watson. Dan Stevens, Luke Evans Logan - Hugh Jackman Get Out - Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams The Space Between Us - Gary Oldman, Asa Butterfield The Great Wall - Matt Damon XXX The Return of Xander Cage - Vin Diesel Resident Evil - The Final Chapter Underworld: Blood Wars - Kate Beckinsale La La Land - Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone Rogue One: A Star Wars Story - Felicity Jones, Diego Luna

Camino Island - John Grisham Indecent Exposure - Stuart Woods Dangerous Minds - Janet Evanovich The Silent Corner - Dean R. Koontz Beach House for Rent - Mary Alice Monroe Murder Games - James Patterson Undaunted - Diana Palmer The Duchess - Danielle Steel Use of Force - Brad Thor

NON-FICTION: A Touch of Farmhouse Charm - Liz Fores Green Smoothies for Life - JJ Smith Don’t Feed the Monkey Mind: How to Stop the Cycle of Anxiety, Fear and Worry The Gospel According to Paul - John F. MacArthur The Lost City of the Monkey God - Douglas Preston Born A Crime - Trevor Noah The Magnolia Story Chip Gaines and Joanna Gaines Thank You For Being Late Thomas L. Friedman The Undoing Project Michael Lewis

Visit us @ www.cityofhelena.org

New Music: Rascal Flatts - Back to Us Lady Antebellum - Heartbreak Now That’s What I Call Country Volume 10 Linkin Park - One More Light Beauty and the Beast Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Paramore - After Laughter Harry Styles - Harry Styles After Laughter - Paramore Places - Lea Michele Welcome Home - Zac Brown Band Now That’s What I Call Music 62 The Search for Everything - John Mayer If Not For You - Joey Feek AC Spirit - Depeche Mode Flowers in the Dirt - Paul McCartney

Meet the Lackey Family In the year 2000, Elise Lackey embarked on a trip to Europe that would change the rest of her life. At the age of 42, Elise felt a calling to motherhood that she describes as “a God thing.”

After days of prayer and consulting with family members, she knew she was on the path to adopting children. This was not an easy path, as she was denied adoption by multiple agencies in the United States because of her single marital status.

Living in Memphis at the time, she found herself visiting an adoption convention at a local church. There were multiple agencies there presenting options for international adoption.

That month, Elise and her cousin, Donnette Stokes, found themselves on a plane to Frankfurt, Germany. They met more cousins when they arrived who 26 Summer 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org

were stationed there in the U.S. Army. Then from Germany, they went to the country of Ukraine where Elise and Donnette would stay in the flat of a Ukranian social worker. They stayed there three weeks to complete the adoption process; visiting the children daily. Then eventually it was on to Warsaw, Poland, to complete all the paperwork.

Finally, after three weeks and three countries, 3-year-old Lesya and 17-month-old Jacob were officially part of the Lackey family.

Elise, originally from Southside, Alabama (near Gadsden), held the dedication for her newly adopted children at First Baptist Church of Southside when her new family arrived back in the states.

Soon after, Elise and her children moved to Helena after she took a job nearby. For the

children, it was a normal Helena childhood: attending public schools, playing in the woods and swimming at Gobbler’s Knob.

Elise made sure they kept their Ukranian heritage alive, calling her mom “Babushka” the Russian word for grandmother. Lesya and Jacob both were and still are extremely active and outdoorsy.

Jacob is 18 now and just graduated from Helena High School. He is headed to Northwest Christian University in Eugene, Oregon, where he will continue his successful track career. (His team recently took 3rd place in the 4 X 800 relays at the state finals this year.) Jacob says he plans to study Physical Therapy.

Lesya is 20 and studies Psychology at Colorado Christian University. Lesya and Jacob both speak of the immense gratitude they have for their mother, and

Elise tears up as she talks about the “thank you” letters Lesya would leave around the house growing up.

It has been said that it takes a village to raise a child—that’s a truth Elise speaks about in lessons she has learned about parenthood. She credits her wonderful home of Helena as the best village in which to raise children.

Elise tears up again talking about friends like Lee and Kathy Vaughn and many others who are always there for her and her kids.

Elise thanks her family, friends, and community for the love and support she has recieved over the past 18 years.

To Elise, Lesya, and Jacob: the city thanks your family for sharing your story of inspiration and hope and for being the wonderful neighbors you are in our community.

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TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Summer 2017

27

Meet Susan Curtis

Helena Elementary School Support Person of the Year Helena Elementary School awarded Susan Curtis as the 2016/2017 Support Person of the Year. This is an award that goes to the person whose assistance in the classroom is vital to the continuation of success at school and in the community.

Originally from Old Texas, Alabama, an unincorporated community in Monroe County, Susan Curtis works as a paraprofessional at Helena Elementary School with a wide variety of students each with their own individual needs. She is a U.A.B. and Troy University alum with multiple degrees in Social Work and Marketing/Business Administration.

Susan has worked with the Shelby County Board of Education since 2007. She started her career in social work, then eventually found herself in the ECLIPSE Program. Once the 28 Summer 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org

state dissipated the ECLIPSE program, Susan transitioned to an “inclusion classroom” at Helena Elementary School.

“It is about doing what you love,” said Susan. She loves working with children, especially children with special needs. Susan does not judge her work from any prestige or salary it delivers.

Instead, she finds validation in the unconditional love she recieves from her students, or as she calls them, her babies. She says there is never a dull moment, and there are many moments that make you laugh and cry all in the same breath. Her students are what make this job so incredible. She learns more from them than anyone could teach. All the skills one needs to do the job—perseverance, flexibility, patience and kindness—she says she learned on the job. The biggest lesson

she says she learned is being able to slow down and appreciate the little things. Her students have taught her acceptance and empathy. This doesn’t mean there aren’t high demands and expectations, and there are certainly careers with more monetary benefits and that are less stressful, but she says her rewards are far greater than her challenges.

Think if we all could be as lucky as Susan to work at a place bearing witness to miracles dayin and dayout. Miracle working is not, however, a simple process. It starts with working on individual goals daily, developing skills and then turning them into life skills. Within her work she has experienced a once non-verbal child run up and wildly describe their day, a student confined to a wheelchair independently walk, and even a child scared of loud

noises and lacking social skills play percussion in band. Knowing the integral role she plays in students’ lives by helping them obtain these individual goals is priceless, she says. Her babies’ milestones may not seem monumental to some, but they are memories for a lifetime for her. These milestones and the smiles she recieves from her students when they meet an individual goal are what inspires her to do the job she loves.

Living in Helena allows Susan to maintane contact and keep her close relationships with her students. She loves to watch the continued growth from the classroom develop into the community she loves so much.

Susan Owen, Helena thanks you for being such a wonderful force in our very special community.

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.

Nolan Williams Service Director TherapySouth Helena

HELENA | 205.624.4708 www.therapysouth.com

DEVELOP GROW

Whites add a girl to the family Steven A. and Michele R. White, of Helena, announce the birth of their precious baby girl, Norah Avalyn White. She was born January 1, 2017 at 7:43 a.m., 7 pounds 12 ounces and 21 1/2 inches, at St. Vincent’s Hospital.

The proud grandparents are Milton & Kathy Romano of Helena and the late James White & Janice White of Bridgeport, Al. Norah is the little sister of Hannah K. White. Photo provided by Ashley Cox Photography of Birmingham, Al.

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TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Summer 2017

29

May 2017 Helena Beautification Award Winner

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.

The Helena Beautification Board is excited to announce the Helena Beautification Award for May has been awarded to 179 River Oaks Drive, Charles and Mary Butler.

Driving through Riverwoods, the Butler’s landscape is sure to catch the eye with precision trimmed hedges and stunning colors of flowers lining the front porch. Residents of Helena for 6 years, Mr. and Mrs. Butler, retired Assistant Principle at Hoover High and retired teacher at Mount Olive Elementary respectively, take immense pride in their property along with the joy it brings to others.

The Butler’s landscape consists of bright pink and yellow snap dragon, pansies, boxwoods lining the driveway and holly bushes that shape up the edges of the driveway and corner of the house. A berm on the side of their property leading down to the house is lined with rows of juniper, Double Knock Out roses, oakleaf hydrangeas, crepe myrtles and loropetalum.

Each month, nomination will be accepted until the 25th with the winner being selected and notified at the first of the following month.

The winner of each month 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 Faceb ook page and in the local press.

To nominate a home to receive the Helena Beautification Award go to www.helenabeautiful.com/award.html and submit the address by the 25th of each month.

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

June 2017 Helena Beautification Award Winner The Helena Beautification Board is excited to announce the Helena Beautification Award for June has been awarded to 118 1st Ave. West, Monica Josephson and Richard Glover.

The next time you are driving through Old Town be sure to make a quick turn onto 1st Ave West to go and take in the beauty of Monica and Richard’s home. Nestled right off the main roads you are quickly greeted with a lush lawn, flowers, shrubs and art that is surrounding the beauty of the 119 year-old home.

Their landscape consists of a row of Forsynthia lining the street edge, Confederate Jasmine, Boxwoods, roses, Daylilies, Canalilies and Dwarf Magnolias. As you pull up to the house you will notice the intermixing of flowers and art that bring out the beauty of one another. The corner of the yard greets passers by with a sculpture created by Alabama artist David Hammock. As you look to the front porch you are quickly drawn to the hanging baskets and swing that welcomes all with a custom piece created locally by JnS Creations. But the art that brings this house to life are the various stained glass windows that have been created and installed by Monica.

Photo credits to Christie and John Hodge Photography.

Each month, nomination will be accepted until the 25th with the winner being selected and notified at the first of the following month. The winner of each month 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, go to 30 Summer 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org

Congratulations to Charles and Mary Butler on this recognition of their beautiful home and lawn!

The Helena Beautification Board encourages residents to send in their nominations for Yard of the Month by the 25th of each month to www.helenabeautiful.com/award.html. www.helenabeautiful.com/award.html and submit the address by the 25th of each month.

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.

Congratulations to Monica Josephson and Richard Glover on their beautiful home and lawn!

July 2017 Helena Beautification Award Winner

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.

The Helena Beautification Board is excited to announce the Helena Beautification Award for July has been awarded to 9040 Brookline Lane, Theresa and Eric Kendrick.

Gardening in a small space is a challenge for some, but not for Theresa and Eric Kendrick of Helena. They’ve transformed their landscape on Brookline Lane into a colorful paradise. Well shaped foundation plantings of boxwoods give form and structure to the space while creative use of containers provide punches of color along the driveway and entry. Hanging baskets draw the eye upward and provide additional interest to the residence.

Theresa does a masterful job color blocking containers for maximum impact. Her use of Hibiscus, petunias, creeping jenny, impatiens, and other vines all blend together to create an inviting space. “Gardening is therapy to me,” says Theresa. “My time in the garden helps to relieve stress while making the world around me a more beautiful place.” she said.

Photo credits to Christie and John Hodge Photography.

Each month, nominations will be accepted until the 25th with the winner being selected and notified at the first of the following month. The winner of each month 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, go to www.helenabeautiful.com/award.html and submit the address by the 25th of each month.

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.

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.

Marie Pittman, MD

Call (205) 733-1130 or visit bbhcarenetwork.com to book an appointment today.

Congratulations to Theresa and Eric Kendrick on this recognition of their beautiful home and lawn!

James Colvard, DO

Haley Jost, CRNP

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Helena Middle School Principal

Scott Knight Retires

After serving more than 18,000 students, three school systems, and twenty six years, the City of Helena, Shelby County, and the State of Alabama wish Godspeed to one of their most beloved administrators and educators.

Born Joseph Scott Knight in Opp, Alabama, “Coach” Scott Knight was a formidable athlete at Opp High School, lettering in Football, Baseball, Basketball, Golf and Tennis for the Bobcats.

Coach Knight’s biggest hero growing up was also his biggest influence, his father, Bobby Ray Knight. Bobby Ray retired as President and CEO of Opp & Micolas Cotton Mills, after starting at the company when he was just 14-years-old as a custodian.

Scott’s father instilled in him the work ethic and focus that helped propel him towards success in his

career as an educator.

After high school, Scott found himself at Auburn University’s Pharmacy School, but eventually, would find his interest and vocation in the field of education.

Once he graduated from Auburn, he landed his first job at Beauregard High School in Lee County for a year, then Dothan High School for 13 years.

In 2004, Knight arrived in Shelby County, where he taught biology for a year at Riverchase Middle School. Soon, an opportunity to get into administration there presented itself, and he transitioned into the assistant principal position. In 2008, he transferred to Helena Middle School, where he would soon take over as Principal after Jenny Goolsby, his predecessor, was taken ill.

One would be hard pressed to

find a single one of the 18,000 students he has taught that doesn’t love and appreciate the effort and responsibility he brings to his job everyday. Like his father did for him earlier, Coach Knight strives to teach his students hard work, conviction and respect.

As a former student under Coach Knight at Riverchase Middle said, there is a great trust and admiration Coach Knight’s students have for him and his process.

Reflecting on his career, Scott Knight sits at his desk smiling at the condition in which he leaves his school. Student/parent involvement is at an all time high, and the school’s test scores are among the best in the state.

The amount of love and appreciation Knight has received since announcing his retirement has been validation of his work here.

He credits his fellow teachers and administrators, the City of Helena, and Mark Hall (the best Mayor in the world) Knight says, for his success.

Coach Knight will move to a house he and his brother built in Tennessee this summer. He plans to travel and attend sporting events still on his bucket list like the Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia and Auburn Baseball playing in a College World Series someday.

Knight also plans on continuing to work in either administration or perhaps for a non-profit.

“Coach” Scott Knight, your students and this city thank you for your dedicated work and the impact you have made on education here. You have made countless lives and communities better with your efforts.

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Summer 2017

33

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 Captain Fallon Bowen USA; Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div.; Fort Carson, CO Tom and Susan Bowen’s daughter-in-law, Joshua’s wife LT Sarah Bowen USN; USS John Stennis Aircraft Carrier; Bremerton, WA; Tom and Susan Bowen’s daughter LT Jordan Bowen USA; 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Div., Ft. Hood, TX; Tom and Susan Bowen’s son SRA Mitch Braswell USAF; 16th EMS, 16th Special Op. Wing; Afghanistan; Mike & Judi Braswell’s son 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

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 Michael Jeffries ARNG; 1/167 Infantry Battalion Company B, Operation Enduring Freedom; Afghanistan; Amy’s husband, Colin & Gavin’s father

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 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

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 Commander David Kang USN; White House, Washinton, DC; Stanley & Sue Kang’s son, Sunny Kang’s brother

Capt John M Traylor, Jr USAF; 64th Aggressor Squadron; Nellis AFB, NV; Mark & Karole Traylor’s son

CW3 Corey Lefebvre USA; Fort Rucker, AL.; Tom Lefebvre’s son SGT Jacob S. Lenoir USA; Sniper Unit of 1-64 Inf; Fort Stewart, GA; Beth Eades’ son, Caitlyn’s husband SRA Tanner McGinnis USAF; 90th SFS Tactical Response Force; FE Warren AFB; Cheyenne, Wyoming Ken & Jo McGinnis’ son 2nd LT Jacob Allen Meins USAF, Special Operations Command; Kathy Meins Martin’s son MSG Jacqueline M. Moore USA, 387th; Wichita, KS; Leroy E. Lucas’ wife, Cameshia, Shaun, Chibukia & Chris’ mom

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!

34 Summer 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org

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

SGT John Christian Vansant USMC; VMMT 204 Flightline, MCAS; New River, NC; Keith & Sherill Vansant’s son Major Maxwell B. Ward USAR; Afghanistan; Kathie’s husband, Maggie’s dad, Bette Ward’s son, Michelle (Lin) Saville’s brother 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 FC3 William J. Welch USN; USS Lake Erie, Pearl Harbor, HI; Devinne Brooks’ husband E4 Spencer R. Wood USN Corpsman; Balboa Hospital; Camp Pendleton, CA Rish & Christa Wood’s son, Whitney Brown’s stepbrother

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No Place like Helena We were enjoying a nice dinner a few months back when my husband, Gary Spearman, had a near fatal cardiac arrest. Luckily, he had on his life vest that night at Beef O’Brady’s which shocked his heart back to life.

Unfortunately, I became hysterical. All I could do was yell, “call 911!

Call 911” Four Helena police officers, four members of the Helena Fire Dept. and two ambulance drivers, plus two seemingly from out-ofnowhere angels in the form of nurses from the VA showed up and did CPR on him.

Gary had just received the Life Vest a few weeks before after having undergone a massive heart attack.

All these wonderful people came together and helped save my husband’s life. They cared for me and offered to take me to the hospital. And the people at Beef O’Brady’s couldn’t have been more helpful and kind.

The world today is full of ugly people, but there are tons more caring and loving people, especially here in Helena, Alabama. God is good.

Thank you to all our heroes, even if I didn’t get your names.

We are eternally grateful, Alice & Gary Spearman, Old Cahaba residents

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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, and listenvto live music.

New this year: additional vendors, a children’s area and food trucks.

Chef Demos held from 9:00-10:00AM July 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

For the latest, up-to-date information, visit

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35

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.

Highway 261 • 201-5531 Rev. Wilma Merriweather Sunday School 10:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 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

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

New Elam Baptist Church Cunningham Drive • 663-2230 Rev. Lester Sunday School 10:00 AM 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

Shiloh Baptist Church

6700 County Road 13 • 424-4539 Pastor Randy Keef Sunday School 10:00 AM Sunday Worship 11:00 AM

CHRISTIAN—DISCIPLES OF CHRIST Grace Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 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 • 919-7932 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

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36 Summer 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org

At the last HBA social, John Burch of Stewardly Financial chats with City Councilperson, “Ms. Alice” Lobell before Beef O’Brady’s ribbon cutting.

News from the Helena Business Association (HBA) Johnny Carcioppolo

The HBA raised $500 for the Miracle League with the Food Truck Rally staged in June in conjunction with the Miracle League ballgame held at the Helena Sports Complex.

We want to remind everyone of our next general meeting at the Helena Community Building August 1. We will have guest speakers from Helena High School DECA and FBLA Clubs talking about sponsorships, Mary Chambliss from The Miracle League will be there to give an update, and Chris VanCleave from the Helena Beautification board will be present to talk about sustainable landscaping. Don’t forget that everyone who attends the general meeting gets a chance to be the Spotlight Business of the Month for July and have a feature article written about their business that will appear in the Helena Reporter. This is great publicity for your business, so make sure you are at the meeting so you have a chance to win.

In September, we will have another social in place of our general meeting.

The social will be September 5. It will be hosted by Greg Arcara of Arcara Residential at their office on 2nd Street in Old Town from 5:30 - 7:30pm. Please make plans to attend. Those that made it to the last social at Beef O’Brady’s can tell you that we had a really good time.

HBA members sold a total of 427 shirts for the 4th of July Fireworks fundraiser, and the fireworks show was a great success.

We will host one more Movies in the Park this summer. The date is August 4th, and we will be showing the movie SING. The movie begins at 8:00 pm, and we will have a few food trucks available for treats before the movie. Come join us for the last Movies in the Park of the summer.

Helena Belles announce new Director and board member Kristy Ingram

The Helena Belle Board is working hard to extend the organization’s reach in our community and include engaging new leadership to promote and support positive enhancements for the organization.

It is my pleasure to announce new Director, Anna Marie Chapman and new board member, Stacy Franklin. I am excited for what these ladies bring to the Belles organization.

Anna Marie Chapman has worked and served in the Helena community over the last 15 years coaching, volunteering, and working behind the scenes. She brings to the Director position over 20 years of corporate leadership, particularly in the areas of human resources, organization development and risk management. She is currently head of human resources at Mspark Corporation, headquartered in Helena.

Anna Marie can be reached at (205) 253-1670 or helenabelles@gmail. com.

Stacey Franklin is a great leader in our community and has served in many roles in the Parent Teacher Organizations for HES, HMS, and HHS over the last 15 years as well. She most recently served as PTO President for HMS. She brings a wealth of experience leading nonprofit organizations with her organization and fundraising skills and community outreach.

We are honored for Anna Marie and Stacey to join the five-member board consisting of Kristy Ingram, Vice-President; Jacqui Atkinson, Secretary; and Brandy Jacobs,Treasurer.

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TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Summer 2017

37

Helena Middle School gets new principal

Meet Andrew “Andy” Gunn

With time comes change, and such is the case this upcoming school year at Helena Middle School.

With Scott Knight retiring, there will be a new person at the school’s helm this year. We’d like to tell you a little about the new man, Andrew Gunn.

Originally from Virginia, Andrew’s father was a teacher and his mother, a nurse. “Growing up in a small town, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, not a doctor or lawyer,” said Andy.

“Through good times and bad, I knew school to be a safe place where I could count on my teachers and principals to consistently be there for me.”

38 Summer 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org

After playing high school football, Gunn attended Samford University on full athletic scholarship. He did post-grad work and received his Masters of Science in Education from Samford. He also holds an EdS from UAB. Andy was most recently principal at Chelsea Middle School for three years and brings a positive and optimistic perspective towards educating students from his experience in three other school districts. He was previously assistant principal at Oak Mountain High School, and taught history at Mountain Brook and Homewood High Schools prior to that.

He says he is excited to begin this school year in Helena August

8. Andy views middles school as an exciting and fun age group.

“They seek approval and they want guidance.”

One of Andy’s goals for HMS is to increase technology development. “Instruction in today’s school system is driven by data,” he explains.

“Common Assessments are teacher-team developed.”

“Interim Assessments evaluate where students are in their learning progress and determine whether they are on track to performing well on standardized tests.”

“We are preparing our children today for jobs in an unknown future. We must give them a set of

adaptable skills,” he said.

“We will have a great year,” Andy affirmed. “HMS now has over 1,000 students, and I believe that growth is an indication that Helena schools are doing a good job.”

“I look forward to working with Assistant Principals Jennifer Cofer and Bakari Young and getting to know the students and people of Helena.”

In his spare time, Andy and his son, Jack, 7, enjoy Samford football together.

Jack plays soccer and is a member of Cub Scout Pack #95, of which Andy is a Pack leader.

Welcome to Helena, Andy; we think you’re going to love it here!

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39

Huskies Champs

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s gets Adam ies h s a #10 N hits in ser key

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ate t S A h 6 lena! t i w son es to He a e s ific que) com r r e t d la n P e y h s p e i Husk ap (State Tro USA TODAY names Coach PJ Guy M Alabama High School Baseball Coach of the Year!

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MVP es his ame 2 t i r w y G ordre nd in Troy C n the mou o ticket

hit gets a s i v a D Riley ll 3 games a

Huskies end season #1 team in the nation in Maxpreps computer poll!

Game one started off bad for the Huskies.

Even the weather tried it’s hand at changing the momentum with an hour plus rain delay, but it just wasn’t in the cards for Helena in the Thursday night series opener.

Games 2 and 3 would be different, however…

Junior Landon Green on mound to start Game 3

Will that perfect bunt roll foul? Noooooo!

Brooks Brophy takes the mound and gets the save in Game 3

1

GAME ONE (1-9)

2

GAME TWO (3-2)

Junior Trevor Bell looks for an opportunity to aadvance

Sam Praytor scores and fires up his team

The Huskies watched the game slip away early and couldn’t recover in a 9-1 loss to Cullman in game one on a rainy Thursday that saw an hour storm delay with crowds gathering under the bleachers at Montgomery’s Paterson Field.

Cullman took an early lead in the first inning and never relinquished it, and they added three more in the second inning.

Senior pitcher Jacob Heatherly (a UA commit selected on the second day of the MBL draft by the Cincinnati Reds) earned the win for Cullman. He pitched six and a third innings, giving up one run and three hits.

Riley Davis took the loss for the Huskies. Riley went three innings, allowing six runs and six hits.

Riley Davis, Nash Adams, and Jake Busby each managed one hit to lead Helena Huskies at the plate on this ill fated night.

Cullman had nine hits in the game and won it by a score of 9-1.

My what a difference a day makes.

The Husky team that took the field Friday morning at Montgomery’s Riverwalk Stadium bore no resemblance to the team that lost the night before at Paterson Field. In Game 2, Helena evens the series at one apiece.

Colton Hood’s walk-off and Troy Cordrey’s powerful pitching earn Huskies a victory.

A walk-off groundout led the Huskies past Cullman 3-2 in game 2 on Friday morning at Montgomery’s Riverwalk Stadium.

The game was tied at two with the Huskies batting in the bottom of the seventh when Colton Hood grounded out, earning an RBI and scoring the winning run.

The pitching was strong on both sides. Troy Cordrey struck out six, while Cullman pitchers combined to sit down six themselves.

The Huskies knotted the game at two in the bottom of the sixth inning when Helena’s Nash Adams doubled with two outs earning an RBI after scoring one run.

Troy Cordrey, Championship Tournament MVP, earned the win for the Huskies. He threw seven innings giving up just two runs and three hits while striking out six and walking none.

Riley Davis, Sam Praytor, Nash Adams, Jake Busby and Nick Ragsdale all had one hit each to lead the Huskies at the plate.

The Huskies would not be denied after evening the series. With it all on the line, Junior Landon Green kept the Huskies in good form and Senior reliever and 3rd baseman Brooks Brophy would come in to close things out, giving the Huskies its first state championship in the school’s short history.

Go Huskies!

3

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME (5-4)

Junior Lawson Peoples scores and Huskies hold on to claim 6A Title!

The Huskies grabbed the lead in the fifth inning and held on to clinch the 6A State Title.

Cullman took an early lead in the first inning when they scored a run on a stolen base.

The Huskies knotted the game up at one in the top of the fourth, when an error scored one run for the Huskies.

Helena took the lead late though and held on to defeat Cullman 5-4 in Game 3, the second of a doubleheader.

The game was tied at one with the Huskies batting in the top of the fifth when there was an error, scoring two runs for the Huskies.

Despite falling down by four runs in the fifth inning, Cullman tried to fight back. The Bearcats scored three runs in the failed comeback.

Cullman scored three runs in the seventh inning. Cullman’s big inning was driven by a couple of late walks.

Junior Landon Green earned the win for the Helena Huskies. He threw six and two-thirds innings, surrendering four runs, two hits, and striking out five. Senior third baseman and reliever Brooks Brophy recorded the last out on the mound to earn the save for the Huskies. Helena had seven hits in the game. Landon Green and Riley Davis each collected multiple hits for the Huskies.

In the Championship Game, the Huskies did not commit a single error in the field. University of Alabama commit, catcher Sam Praytor, had the most chances in the field with five putouts.

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Coach Cummings joins the celebrating Huskies

2016-17 6A State Champions...Helena Huskies!

Helena’s Depot Deli & Grill Hosts 6A State Champion Huskies at Fan Night May 22 was the day that Depot Deli and Grill owner and Husky Booster, Matt Bisaot, invited the 6A State Champion Helena Huskies baseball team to come in and enjoy a team dinner on the house. It was also an opportunity for fans to come out and congratulate the guys on the culmination of a season they’ll all be telling their grandkids about one day.

Ten members of this season’s team will be moving on as they have graduated. We sat down with nine of them who were there at the Depot to reminisce a bit about their careers to date and find out a little about their college plans. Good luck to all of them in the future!

Nash Adams, son of Chad and Mendy Adams Nash first played the game of baseball in Piedmont, Alabama. He moved to Helena in 4th grade.

Nash says his best baseball memory is without a doubt the 6A State Championship the Huskies won this season. After losing game one, Coach told us “It’s time to write a story; win each pitch and you’ll win the Nash Adams games.” “In my mind, that made a difference for us in games two and three. It helped us to refocus.”

Nash listed Coach Cummings as the coach who has had the most influence on his playing career. “He’s been with us from the 7th Grade on. He helped me become a better person and a better man.”

Nash plans to attend Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, where he plans to continue his athletic career as a safety on the football team.

Oh, and he says he might talk to the coach about playing baseball, too.

Brooks Brophy, son of EJ and Cindy Brophy

Brooks Brophy

Brooks is the senior 3rd baseman who entered the championship game with it all on the line in the final inning to close the deal from the pitcher’s mound.

He remembers starting the game of baseball at age 4 with friends and current teammates Jake Busby and Riley Davis. He remembers playing on the Giants.

Brooks says his best baseball memory is definitely the recent 6A State Championship. “Nothing comes

close to that!” he said.

He says the coach who has had the biggest influence on his game is Coach Bobby Cummings. “He’s been with us since middle school,” said Brooks who added, “He is an awesome coach.”

Brooks earned a scholarship to play baseball at the University of Alabama in Huntsville where he plans to major in biology and minor in chemistry. He says he plans to come back to UAB to attend Med School after graduation.

Jake Busby, son of Carrie and Scott Busby

Jake has played baseball in Helena since the age of 4, when he suited up for the Cardinals. He says winning the state championship is the best memory of his baseball career so far. “I’ve been dreaming about that my whole life,” said Jake. “And it finally happened.”

Asked which coach has had the biggest influence Jake Busby on his life to this point, and Jake joined most of his teammates in naming Coach Bobby Cummings. “I’ve known him since the 6th Grade,” said Jake, “and he’s always gone the extra mile for us — he’s been with us the whole way through.”

Jake intends to pursue a career in nursing, either as a CRA or a Nurse practitioner, beginning next fall at the University of South Alabama.

Troy Cordrey, son of Stan and Christy Cordey

Troy remembers playing baseball on the Marlins at age 4. He lists the 6A State Championship as the best memory from his playing career so far, but we’re pretty sure being named Tournament MVP in the 6A Championship Series had to come in a close second.

Talking about the way the championship series Troy Cordrey started with Helena losing big to Cullman, Troy said the team was just trying too hard, letting the moment get too big. “We went into Friday much more comfortable,” he said.

Asked to name the coach who has had the biggest influence on his playing career, Troy named Coach Bobby Cummings. “He’s been with us since Middle School. He not only impacts our baseball play, but helps us to be better men in our life and our relationships.”

Troy will continue his baseball career having earned a scholarship to pitch for the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Troy plans to major in Bio Medical Science afterwhich he plans to attend PT School and work as a Physical Therapist someday.

Riley Davis, son of Rod and Vicky Davis

Riley remembers playing as a 4-year-old Kansas City Royal in the Helena Youth League. His favorite baseball memory was several of this teams second favorite memory, but when this group of seniors were 6th Graders, their travel ball team, the Helena Wildcats, travelled to Cooperstown, NY (home to the Baseball Hall of Fame) to play in a tournament with 110 other teams Riley Davis and came in 10th. Most of the dads were coaches, and the memories still stick in their minds today.

Riley says the coach who has influenced him the most is Coach Laatsch. “Coach Laatsch never coached me in baseball. He was one of my football coaches, but he helped more in the role of life coach. He really has helped me in my walk with God.” Riley turned down a scholarship at another university to walk on with the baseball team at the University of Alabama at Birmingham this fall.

Riley plans to pursue a career as a Nurse Anesthetist there.

Wesley Featherstone, son of Cheryl Bynum and Ken Featherstone Wesley started playing baseball at age 3 in Detroit, Michigan, he says, where he played for the Cardinals.

As fate would have it, he would move to Helena the next year and end up on the Cards here, too.

Wesley lists his favorite baseball memory as the 6A Wesley Featherstone State Championship won with many of the same guys he’s been playing with since moving to Helena at age 4.

Wesley lists his youth league coach, Rod Davis, as the coach who’s had the biggest influence on his playing career. “Coach Rod coached me in both youth league baseball and flag football. He was the first coach to really push me. He instilled in me that I was destined for better things—he believed in me.

Wesley plans to attend Tuskeegee University on Academic Scholarship where he plans to major in sales and marketing.

Kade Jones, son of James and Valerie Jones

Kade remembers first playing baseball at about age 5 here in Helena for the Devil Rays. He said you can’t beat the recent 6A State Championship as easily his best baseball memory. “We knew we were a much better team than the one we put on the field in game one of the championship series,” he said.

Kade Jones Kade lists Coach Bobby Cummings as the coach who has had the biggest influence on his playing career, giving him credit for all the extra time he’d spent with him in the batting cage and hitting Kade extra flyballs to the outfield. “Coach Cummings always believed in me,” said Kade.

Kade says he plans to attend the University of Alabama in the fall where he will study engineering.

Sam Praytor, son of Ben and Tracey Praytor

Sam has played baseball in Helena since the age of 4, when he played for the Red Sox. He lists two favorite baseball memories: The Husky 6A State Championship, of course, and last summer when his 18U WWBA travel team won the league’s National Championship in Atlanta.

The team is based in Atlanta and is comprised of team Sam Praytor members mainly from Alabama, Florida and Georgia.

Sam, known for his hitting prowess in addition to his skills behind the plate, credits Coach Bobby Cummings as the coach who has had the biggest influence on his playing career. “I’ve taken hitting lessons from him since I was like 8 or 9,” said Sam. “He was there in Middle School and all the way through.”

Sam plans to continue his baseball career as a catcher for the Alabama Crimson Tide. “I have a lot to work on in terms of adjusting to the speed of Division 1 baseball,” said Sam, “but we have a new coach and a lot of talent coming in. I can’t wait to get started.” Sam says he is undecided on a field of study, but he hopes to be a coach himself one day.

Brett Walton, son of Frank Walton and Kim Harris

Brett Walton

Brett was born into baseball, you might say. Dad, Frank, coached UAB’s team from 1991-2006. Brett first played organized baseball in Helena at the age of 4 when he donned the Cardinals uniform.

He lists his favorite baseball memory as the recent 6A State Championship. Asked what was different in Game one, Brett said “Game ones happen now and then. I knew it was not going to be the same on Friday

in the next games.”

Brett lists Coach Cummings as the coach who’s had the biggest influence on his playing career, saying that he was the first coach to actually give me a chance. “He is the reason I started playing school ball. He had confidence in me.”

Brett plans to continue his baseball playing career at JSU, where he plans to study marketing and work in the business world someday.

Senior team member not available: Braylon Moss

Team gives thanks after the 6A title win.

A few team moms on a rainy evening at the Depot

Congratulations on a great season, Huskies!

Returning Husky players

USA TODAY HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS is proud to announce the American Family Insurance ALL-USA Alabama Baseball Team. Players & Coaches are selected based on their athletic achievements from the 2016-17 season.

Coach of the Year - P.J. Guy, Helena Helena High has only existed three years, and Guy has already taken the Huskies to the state championship game twice, this year winning the title in Class 6A. Helena (38-6) knocked off Cullman in the championship series, giving Guy a 100-39 overall record.

First Team Catcher - Sam Praytor, Helena Catcher, 5-11/205, Sr. Sam plans to continue his baseball career next season working behind the plate for the University of Alabama Crimson Tide.

2016-17 6A State Champions ... Helena Huskies

HELENA HIGH SCHOOL 2017 Football Schedule 6A Region 3 Home games played at Husky Stadium Head Coach/Athletic Director Watts Parker

VARSITY Aug. 19 (Sat.) Aug. 25 Sept. 1 Sept. 8 Sept. 15 Sept. 22 Sept. 29 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 20 Oct. 27 Nov. 3

Husky Day Home Ramsay (Pre-season) Home Mountain Brook Home Chilton County Home Pelham Away Homewood Away Vestavia (Homecoming) Home Opelika Away Wetumpka Away Benjamin Russell (Youth Night) Home Chelsea (Senior Night) Home Pell City Away

7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm

Tickets: $7 (No passes out—NO exceptions) Parking $5 IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR HUSKY FANS Husky Stadium: Gates open at 5:30pm.

Food/Drinks: No outside food/drinks are permitted. Please support our Band Boosters by purchasing refreshments at our full-service concession stand.

Family Friendly Environment: Tobacco, alcohol, drugs, firearms, profanity, etc. will not be tolerated at any HHS event and these rules will be strictly enforced by the Helena Police Department.

Adult Supervision: Children are always welcomed at HHS events, but they must be accompanied and supervised by a parent/guardian or responsible adult.

Field Access: Only those with sideline passes are allowed on the field at any time—PERIOD. Sportsmanship: All Helena supporters are expected to behave appropriately and conduct themselves accordingly, please keep in mind your actions and behavior are a direct reflection on our city and schools.

If deemed necessary, violators will be removed from the event by school administrators and/or the Helena Police Department.

ALWAYS Cheer for Helena, Never Against the Opponent or the Officials!

44 Summer 2017 / www.CityOfHelena.org

Soccer Camp and more in gear this summer

In the summer heat and showers, Helena High School Kicked off its summer camp season with soccer camp the week of June 4th-9th. Coaches Clif Naron and Zach Morgan led the camp week with other coaches and trainers including current and former Helena High School soccer players pitching in.

Kids first grade through seventh grade interested in soccer were trained in stretching and warmups, skill drills and even teamed up to play small games. “The camp brings more kids out to play soccer in an area dominated by football and baseball,” said Coach Naron.

Cameron Beery is one of the camp’s coaches and a former HHS player. He is a referee for Helena United Soccer and will continue his career at Huntingdon College this year.

Cameron is very excited to see the growth of soccer in his hometown of Helena. The size of the camp has grown tremendously over the past couple of years from around 50 campers to almost double that this year. Current Husky players Blake Bullock and Mac Costa both say they enjoyed teaching the game of soccer to the younger players, and both look forward to another successful year of soccer at Helena High School a program which boasts a State Championship in its short history.

Soccer was just the beginning of summer camps for HHS this summer. Camps were also in the works as this was written for: volleyball, softball, basketball and football, getting the next generation of Husky athletes ready for championship competition to keep those “Blue Map” state trophy plaques coming!

Meet Cana Brown 2017 HHS Valedictorian (That’s pronounced “Kayna,” as in the city where Jesus perfomed the miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding feast, in case you were wondering.)

Cana was born and raised in Helena. She is the daughter of James “Bo” and Stephanie Brown.

Cana’s first school memory was at Helena Elementary’s kindergarten program and says her passion has always been the piano, playing it at her dad’s church, Community Baptist in Maylene, at recitals and at school. She started taking piano lessons at age 8 from Karen Morgan, currently the music teacher at Helena Intermediate School.

“I gave it up for a year,” said Cana, “then began taking from Lisa Etheridge and Angelisa Baker, co-teachers at Community Baptist School of Fine Arts.

As she has grown older, Cana says piano has become more personal to her, listening to her favorite genre, classical instrumental, and recordings by her favorite artist, Yiruma.

Cana says she began to pursue drama her freshman year at Pelham High School, and is proud to have been in the first play that the new Helena High School’s drama department produced.

She has flourished in drama and says it has helped her embrace her creative side and also improved her problem solving skills.

She says her favorite dramatic role has been as Abby Brewster in the play Arsenic and Old Lace. “She was an old lady who liked to kill people. But she thought she was doing it with good reason,” said Cana.

(Quite a contrast to the unassuming, musically gifted Cana. “Acting!” as John Lithgow’s old character might say

on SNL’s Master Thespian piece he did with Jon Lovitz.)

Cana says her drama teacher at Helena High School is an amazing guy, and very open minded.

“He always takes our ideas into consideration and gives everyone a chance to get involved, from beginners to more seasoned drama students.

Graduated Valedictorian in Helena High School’s Class of 2017, Cana will attend The University of South Alabama on the Whiddon Honors Scholarship this fall.

She plans to major in Biomedical Science and minor in Spanish which she says will help tremendously with the medical mission trips she plans for her future as a doctor.

“I’d love to be able to help nonEnglish speaking people both in a hospital environment and just in general,” she says. “There is such a need for this in our country.”

In her spare time, Cana enjoys hanging out with pals, like her best friend Kelsey Trimble, a friend since kindergarten days, and family. Cana has three older sisters, and her family is very close.

We wish Cana all the best that the future has to offer and ask God’s richest blessings on all her future endeavors.

Meet Boston Sharp 2017 HHS Salutatorian Robert Boston Sharp, one of Helena’s brightest young stars, heads to Oxford, Mississippi, this summer. Boston; named after his grandfather Raymond Boston, earned the honor of Helena High School’s Class of 2017 Salutatorian.

Boston’s efforts in class earned him a full ride to the University of Mississippi on an academic scholarship.

He plans to major in Mechanical Engineering at the Center of Manufacturing Excellence at Ole Miss.

During his time at Helena High School, Boston was passionate about both math and music. Boston played trumpet in the marching band and jazz band and before graduating, earned his place as trumpet section leader.

When Boston arrives at Ole Miss he plans on joining the Baptist Student Union and Ole Miss Outdoors Club.

After college, Boston says he is considering attending officer training school in the Marines, and hopes to fly jets one day.

Boston thanks his parents, Bob and Laurie Sharp, for all their support, and includes his grandfather Raymond as one of his biggest role models.

Boston, your city is proud of your most recent success and wishes you good fortune in all your future endeavors.

Editor’s note: Computer’s are great, but when you make a mistake on one, sometimes it just compounds itself. Such was the case with our last issue, when the 2016 Valedictorian, Salutatorian and Honor Grads were listed in error.

Our deepest and most sincere apologies to all who were left out.

Here we profile the correct Valedictorian and Salutatorian with our heart felt best wishes for a college career as succeessful as was their time in high school.

We are also reprinting the Class of 2017 spread in its entirety, along with a picture of the honor grads on the stage graduation night at the BJCC, 2017 Senior Class officers and a fun picture of the class making the annual cap toss.

Wise words from the past…

“The roots of education are bitter; the fruit is sweet.”

— Aristotle “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”

— Benjamin Franklin “Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make man a more clever devil.”

— C.S. Lewis TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Summer 2017

45

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

Class Officers President: Laura Maddison Rodriguez Vice-President: Nash Mitchel Adams Secretary: Madeline Nicole Akins Treasurer: Troy Christopher Cordrey

Go Huskies!

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

Class Officers, l-r: Troy Cordrey, Madeline Akins, Laura Rodriguez and Nash Adams

Class of 2017 Honor Graduates

Graduates perform the cap toss

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