Helena City News Serving the City of Helena and surrounding area
Late Summer 2016
Helena Belles host a
Garden Party
CITIZENS AND BUSINESSES FEED OUR LOCAL HEROES IN BLUE Police personnel and families enjoy a complimentary night out at Coal Yard
HELENA HIGH HUSKIES MOVE TO STATE 6A CLASSIFICATION
Add Pelham, Vestavia, Homewood and Mtn. Brook to tougher 2016 schedule
BUCK CREEK FEST. COMMITTEE DIVVIES UP PROCEEDS
Volunteer group donates over $26K to community charitable organizations
Husky Football Kicks Off! SCHEDULE INSIDE!
Cover Photo by www.TheBlinkLady.com www.MyHelenaCityNews.com / www.CityofHelena.org
From the Mayor
Greetings all! Summer is almost over and it was jam packed with great events. I hope you all had a chance to enjoy them. From First Fridays, Movies in the Park, July Fireworks, Market Days and Jazz in the Park, this summer was both entertaining and fun. As we transition to the fall and the start of a new school year, I would like to thank you for your attention to safety as you drive to and from our schools. Your patience during these heavy traffic times is appreciated and insures everyone has a safe trip
to and from school. I am happy to announce the extended turn lanes will be completed at Helena Intermediate on Helena Parkway (52W) in the very near future. This small project will make room for additional cars and buses to get off the main road while turning into HIS, which will help move traffic as quickly as possible at that location. We are also awaiting engineering and traffic studies to be completed regarding a similar improvement at the elementary school. This project will be a bit more complex, but I am optimistic about the outcome. I am excited to see another year of football kick off in our community as our Helena High Huskies make the transition to
6A competition this season. The Helena vs. Pelham rivalry will officially start this season, and we look forward to the great sportsmanship and entertainment this game brings between our beloved schools. I also look forward to seeing the City Youth League Football and other fall sports programs get under way. It’s a great time of year. I am very pleased with the direction our city is going and would like to thank you all for the show of confidence and support given to me as I enter my second term in office as your Mayor. I will continue to serve you to the best of my ability and pledge my continued cooperation with the City Council to make good things happen for our community. I am very proud of the many improvements we have
made and the fiscal responsibility shown during the last four years as we added over $1 million dollars to our reserve funds that were nonexistent when I took office four years ago. We will continue to use your tax dollars wisely with accountability and transparency. Thank you again for your confidence and support. I hope you all have a great fall! I look forward to seeing you around town and at Husky football games! Please remember to shop Helena first! Kindest Regards,
Mark Mark R. Hall, Mayor
Mayor Hall with the Helena Belles. Hall delivered welcoming remarks at their annual Garden Party recently held at ShelB Acres in Helena.
Go Huskies! 2 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
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Camp Husky introduces 6th Graders to Middle School fun! Helena Middle School held its annual “Camp Husky” student orientation for incoming 6th graders recently. The camp was a one-day event. Students toured the school, received their schedules and lockers and learned about the school’s dress code. “Camp Husky” ended with the students’ first HMS pep rally. The always popular student event featured routines by cheerleaders, majorettes, the dance team and a special visit from Howler, Helena’s mascot. HMS would like to thank Dr. Priscila Denny of Oak Mountain Orthodontics for generously providing t-shirts for all the new 6th graders to wear. (Shown with Doctor Denny are two of her Helena patients, Olivia and Madison.)
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HHS students attend Alabama Lions High School Forum Helena High School Students Josie and Trinity Scozzaro attended the 7th annual Alabama Lions High School Forum at Troy University from June 17th to the 19th. They are the first representatives from Helena to ever attend, according to sources. They spent the weekend learning team-building and leadership skills with other students from around Alabama, ranging from 9th graders to college age. According to Josie, they are currently trying to establish a “Leo Club,” which is a youth service organization affiliated with Lions Clubs International. “Being a Leo helps you create
long lasting friendships and teaches you how to prepare yourself for the future.” said Josie. The ladies are the daughters of Emmanuel and Kristi Scozzaro. Josie is currently senior at HHS, and Trinity is a junior. Josie (middle below) is currently considering attending Jacksonville State University. After attending the forum, Trinity is now considering Troy. “I met so many new people, and I still stay in contact with them,” said Trinity. “It taught me how to open up and come out of my comfort zone.” You represented Helena very well ladies. Congratulations!
Cameron and Justin Beery create new additions to Helena High for Eagle Scout projects Helena high School students Cameron and Justin Beery recently served their school by completing their Eagle Scout projects with the help of several volunteers. Cameron, a senior soccer player, built an eight by 10 foot shed for the HHS soccer team. “Cameron and the volunteers had to build the floor and frame the shed out,” said Shelley Beery, their mother. “They had to build the floor and frame it out. Last weekend, we put the roof on and put the sides up.” Justin is a junior who is on the HHS wrestling team. He built four picnic tables for the school to use during their lunch periods.
“After Justin coordinated all the volunteers, we had to cut out all the pieces for the tables and build them from scratch,” said Mrs. Beery. According to Mrs. Beery, Justin and Cameron’s family, school and community are extremely proud of them. “Cameron is very busy. He’s on the soccer team and works two jobs. Justin, being special needs, didn’t take any short cuts,” said Mrs. Beery. “We had a lot of support from the city, and we had a lot of volunteers show up. I’m hoping that this inspires other kids to make a difference.”
Top: Cameron Beery pictured with volunteer Steve Austin by the shed. Bottom: Justin Beery sitting with his Troop 547 Scoutmaster, Grady Masterson, at one of his picnic tables.
6 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
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Helena Kiwanis invites everybody to come hear our Helena Huskies football coach speak Kiwanis of Helena presents a terrific program on Tuesday, August 30. Watt Parker, Head Football Coach and Athletic Director for Helena High School, will serve as our guest speaker. In the short time he has been at Helena High, he has done an excellent job. He spoke to Kiwanis last year and brought along two of his players who impressed the group with their poise and confidence when they spoke. The club plans to make an invitation to Coach Parker an annual event. As always, breakfast is provided. Please call (205) 999-5329 or ( 205) 999-5329 to reserve your spot!
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HELENA, AL
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Corey Agricola changes himself for the better at Snap Fitness Helena Despite only being a member for six months, Corey Agricola has already formed many friendships and established a workout routine at Snap Fitness. Corey, who grew up in Midfield, stayed fit during his early life by playing football, baseball and golf. Once he graduated from Midfield High School, he enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1992. After he left the Marines in 2000, he went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and received his master’s degree from Baylor University in Waco, TX. He has also received his clinical pastoral education, and is currently working on his board certification in order to further his career as a pastor. He served as the pastor of a church for nine years. He currently serves as the staff chaplain at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, teaches a class on death and dying at Samford University, and teaches substance abuse counseling classes on Saturdays at the Alabama Abuse Counseling Center. “I’ve always been active and fit, but over the course of time, I’ve kind of let myself go,” said Corey introspectively.
“My work is pretty much my life. I work with the dying every day. I see a lot of grief and bereavement, so self care is making me a better chaplain and servant in the work that I do.” According to Corey, his sleep patterns and work performance were suffering before he joined Snap Fitness. “I would get to points at work where I would sleep in my office during my lunch hour. I would have crashes, where during the middle of the day I would just suddenly get exhausted. I realized that wasn’t healthy. Corey’s workouts at Snap Fitness have also had a positive impact on his personal life. “Working out here has made all the difference in the world. I feel better and now I have more energy,” Since starting his membership last February, Corey has lost about 25 lbs. Every day, Corey arrives at Snap Fitness around 5:00 p.m. and works out for two to three hours. He primarily does strength exercises during his workouts, and never rests between sets. Corey does 3,000 crunches a day, uses the ab machine frequently and focuses on exercising a different muscle group each day.
Corey, who currently lives in McCalla, discovered Snap on his daily commute from work. He used to work as the chaplain and bereavement manager for a hospice care program and cut through Helena on his way home. “I just happened to pass Snap Fitness every day, and I finally stopped by. I didn’t know about any gyms in Helena. Once I came in and met the people, I fell in love with Snap Fitness.” In addition to the positive
changes in his health regimen, Corey has also found close friends in his fellow members. “I love the atmosphere here, I’ve heard it described like ‘Cheers’ without the alcohol,” said Corey. “They have the best trainers, they have one-on-one coaching, and I’ve been able to incorporate a meal plan into my routine. This gym is not just for working out to me. This gym is like a family.”
calendar of EVENTS REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS
14th - Helena High School Late Start, 9:10am
Mondays Exercise Classes, Helena Senior Center, 10:00am Police Explorers, Explorer Training Facility, 4:00-7:00pm Fire Explorers, Station 2, 5:00pm
- Helena Middle School Fall Makeup Pictures
15th - Helena Planning & Zoning, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm - Friends of the Jane B. Holmes Library Meeting, Library, 6:00pm 17th - Respite Care-special needs 0-21, free of charge but must reserve Tuesdays Kiwanis, Helena Senior Center, 7:00am; 3rd Tues. 5:30pm aaronsstaffrespite.org Story Time, Jane B. Holmes Public Library, 11:00am 19th - Helena Elementary Book Fair September 19-23 Helena Lions Club meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday, 22nd - First Day of Autumn Helena Senior Center, 7:00pm, Visit their Facebook 24th - Last Day to Register to Vote in the November 8th General Election page Helena Lions Club for info 26th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm Thursdays Exercise Classes, Helena Senior Center, 10:00am Story Time, Jane B. Holmes Public Library, 11:00am Fridays HBA’s Helena First Fridays, Old Town, 5:30-8:30pm Now-End of Summer, For more info visit hbahelena.com or their Facebook page
october
4th - Municipal Runoff Elections if needed, Helena Recreational Bldg,* 7:00am-7:00pm, AlabamaVotes.gov *Most residents vote here Saturdays Helena Market Days (til 8/27), OT Amphitheater, - Helena Business Association Meeting, 8:00am, for meeting site 8:00am-12:00pm, Chef Demo 9:00am, For a list of chefs, visit hbahelena.com or their Facebook page entertainment & events visit helenamarketdays.com - Helena Elementary PTO First Grade Program, 6:15pm 6th - Emergency Siren Test, 10:00am 10th - Shelby Co. Schools Teacher Workday & Prof. Dev.—No Students - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 25th - Helena Elementary Night of Scouting, 6:00pm 15th - Helena High School Cross Country Invitational - Helena Intermediate 4th Grade Parents’ Academy, 6:00pm - Respite Care-special needs 0-21, free but must reserve 26th - Helena Elementary Summer Reading Celebration, 2:00pm aaronsstaffrespite.org 27th - Last Helena Market Day of 2016, OT Amphitheater, 8:00am-12:00pm, 17th - Helena Elementary Boosterthon Rallies Chef’s Demo at 9:00am, helenamarketdays.com 20th - Helena Planning and Zoning, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 29th - Helena Middle 7th & 8th Grade Open House, 6:30pm - Friends of the Jane B. Holmes Library Meeting, Library, 6:00pm 30th - Helena Elementary 2nd Grade Parents’ Academy, 6:30pm 24th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm
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september
1st - Helena Intermediate 5th Grade Parents’ Academy, 6:00pm - HIS 5th Grade Washington DC Trip Meeting, 7:00pm 2nd - Helena Elementary Picture Day, 8:00am CITY, STATE, GENERAL ELECTIONS - First Friday, Old Town Helena, 5:30-8:30pm, visit hbahelena.com 5th - LABOR DAY: Municipal Offices, Library & Schools Closed Most Residents will Vote at the Helena Recreational NO TRASH PICK UP, collection service will run one day behind Building Polling Places open 7:00am-7:00pm date election through Saturday, September 10 6th - Helena Business Association Meeting, 8:00 am, for meeting site visit October 4, 2016 Municipal Runoff Elections (if necessary) hbahelena.com or their Facebook page November 8, 2016 General Election 7th - Emergency Siren Test, 10:00am 12th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 13th - Showcase of Bands, Helena High School - Helena Elementary Kindergarten Parents’ Academy, 6:30pm
For information concerning voter registration, polling places, absentee ballots, amendments, etc., call 1-800-274-8683 or visit
AlabamaVotes.gov
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Helena High football makes a move up to 6A The Helena Huskies move up to level 6A this year, where they’ll compete with the likes of arch rival Pelham, Mountain Brook, Opelika and Vestavia. Coach Watts said that the new region is a difficult one and expects it to be a challenge, but he feels the Huskies are eager to accept the challenge. The Huskies went 9-3 in 5A competition last year, earning a berth in the state playoffs. They return 14 starters this season and have some promising young talent. A key to the team’s success this season may be avoiding the injury bug. The offensive and defensive lines are thin so the coach says he is concerned about keeping the big guys healthy. The Huskies have a terrifichome schedule this year (see schedule), so be sure to make plans to come out for Friday games and support your home team! Home kick offs are at 7p.m.
Husky Day 2016 Helena High School celebrated the beginning of their third football season with its annual Husky Day event. Husky Day began with games between football teams from the city’s youth league. The city’s youth cheerleaders were there to encourage the players and whip up the crowd. Later that evening, the 7th grade and 8th grade HMS football teams played each other, too. For the main event, the high school’s varsity and junior varsity teams were combined and then split into two teams, kicking off at 7:30 p.m. Cheerleaders, dance teams, and majorettes from both the middle and high schools kept the crowd entertained. Helena High School’s terrific marching band performed under the direction of Jeff Burnside. Husky Day featured several local vendors and two inflatable bounce houses for children. A great time was had by all. Go Huskies, and good luck this season!
HUSKY VARSITY Home Games Kickoff @ 7 p.m.
Helena High School 2016 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE 6A Region 3
VARSITY SCHEDULE August 26 September 2 September 9 September 16 September 23 Septemnber 30 October 7 October 14 October 21 October 28
Mountain Brook Away Chilton County Away Pelham Home Homewood Home Vestavia Away Opelika (Homecoming) Home Wetumpka (Youth Recognition Night) Home Benjamin Russell Away Chelsea Away Pell City (Senior Night) Home
Freshmen/Junior Varsity Aug. 29 (Mon.) Sept. 6 (Tues.) Sept. 6 (Tues.) Sept. 12 (Mon.) Sept. 19 (Mon.) Sept. 26 (Mon) Oct. 3 (Mon.) Oct. 10 (Mon.) Oct. 17 (Mon,)
Mountain Brook FR 5:30pm/JV 7:00pm Home Homewood FR 6:00pm Away Montevallo JV 6:00pm Home Pelham FR 5:30pm/JV 7:00pm Away McAdory FR 5:30pm /JV 7:00pm Away Vestavia FR 5:30pm/JV 7:00pm` Home Briarwood FR 5:00pm/JV 6:30pm Away Chelsea FR 5:30pm/JV 7:00pm Home Pelham FR 5:30pm/JV 7:00pm Home
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Helena High School Principal April Brand announces updates campus that they can eat lunch. The other 30 minutes will be spent by engaging in their choice of clubs and activities. The program was designed to provide the maximum amount of supervision from faculty, while simultaneously offering the most flexibility possible for students. In addition to allowing greater access to a set of diverse activities, a Pack-60 will also create opportunities for students to meet with teachers for additional help and support. A master schedule will soon be available on the school’s website. It will contain details about specific meeting days for extracur-
ricular activities and clubs. The daily schedule will be displayed at HHS on the 18 Smart TVs that have recently been installed in each hallway of the school and graciously provided by the school’s PTO and SGA. The TVs will also be used for announcements, teacher and student spotlights and a way to keep students informed of what is happening on a daily basis within the school. Teachers will also be provided with small group development sessions, and the library media center will offer students more opportunities through the Makerspace program.
Through the Makerspace program, students will be able to create, experiement, build, design, research and invent. These activities change on a regular basis. Options Makerspace has for students include robotics, computer coding, stopaction videos, DIY crafts among many more. HHS also plans to add a 3-D printer and chroma key video kit to their list of options for students. All HHS students are encouraged to participate in Makerspaces and all other programs Pack-60 has to offer.
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Helena High School has made several updates to their schedule, courses and technology in preparation for the 2016-2017 school year. The Helena High School faculty and staff will be implementing a new program called Pack-60 during the school year. Pack-60 has been specially designed to allow students to eat lunch and work on tasks that relate to their personal interests. In past school years, students have had an hour to eat lunch at HHS. With Pack-60, students will have 30 minutes for lunch. They will be given the freedom to choose when and where on
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Benchmark Physical Therapy at your service in Helena Jennifer Spencer credits the accident where she fell through a glass display case while a student in 8th grade at Oak Mountain Middle School with her decision to go into physical therapy as a profession. “I sliced my arm open and it was millimeters from severing key nerves,” said Jennifer, a lifeling resident of North Shelby County. In the accident, she severed muscles and tendons, which required her to have reconstructive surgery. She was put in a splint for a time, and it was then that she became aware of the positive difference a physical therapist can have on a person’s way of life. “After I was restored back to full use of my hand and arm, I decided that physical therapy was what I wanted to do with my life.” Jennifer went on to play on the 2001 Oak Mountain High School State Champion softball team (the school’s first state championship), and received her undergraduate degree from Auburn University. She attended Physical Therapy School at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, where she graduated with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree in 2008. She then completed an 18-month orthopedic residency with her
current company, Benchmark Physical Therapy, in Atlanta, which provided her with additional orthopedic training. Jennifer opened Benchmark’s first clinic in Helena in May 2015, and is currently accepting new patients. In addition to accepting physician referrals, Benchmark offers patients Direct Access care, which gives patients with weekend or chronic injuries expert care and offers advice on their particular issues. Benchmark accepts most health insurances, and Jennifer has several areas of expertise:
In her off time, Jennifer enjoys traveling to the beach and is an avid runner. She has run 13 marathons so far and has competed in the Boston Marathon twice. Anyone in need of physical therapy can call Benchmark at (205) 621-8822.
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“I fell in love with Helena the first time I drove through it. From the charm of ‘Old Town,’ where my wife and I purchased and restored the historic Nunnally House as our office, to the ‘New Town’ atmosphere found in Helena’s RIVERWOODS, a dynamic new home community we represent, we’d like to be your Realtors of choice.” Greg Arcara
Call Arcara Residential today to discuss ways in which our team can help you with all your real estate needs! Looking for a new home? Beautiful rolling lots and a recreational lifestyle await you in Riverwoods.
Greg Arcara, Owner/Broker • Office (205) 560-0474 • Cell (205) 566-1426 • ArcaraHomes.com
18 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
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. For more information on making Riverwoods your home, contact Greg Arcara on his cell at (205) 566-1426 or his office at
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(205) 560-0474.
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Residential Beautification Award The Riverwoods home of Chad & Marcy Campbell, 193 River Valley Road Chad and Marcy Campbell built their home at 193 River Valley Road in 2009. Chad, who was raised in Helena, has been employed with the city for 20 years and currently works as the city’s Building Inspector. Chad lives with his wife, Marcy, who is a registered nurse who works part-time at Shelby Baptist and also teaches at the Shelby County College and Career Center in Columbiana. The couple has two children: Tyler, 21, and Owen, 12, a 6th grader at Helena Middle School. “Our kids have always been very involved in local sports,” Chad notes. “Owen plays travel ball for a local Helena team and also enjoys football and basketball. We have recently began attending the Church of Cahaba Bend, where Owen is involved in the youth group. We love the small town feel and the wonderful people of Helena. We couldn’t see ourselves anywhere else.” Chad built their home himself and designed the landscaping. “Our good friend, Dale Brown, also a Helena resident, helps us keep the shrubs and bushes trimmed and offers advice and guidance when we make changes in the landscaping. We recently removed some overgrown Grey Owl juniper bushes upon his recommendation and plan to remove the rest later this
fall,” said Chad. “We choose low maintence plants and shrubs as we tend to live such a busy lifestyle and want the yard to be easily maintainable.” Cotoneaster bushes add flow and softness to the yard. Arborvitae add height and are perfect for decorating at Christmas time. Also in the Campbell yard are crape myrtle and Marcy’s favorite, Lorapetalum, which serve as a retaining wall barrier. They have also planted a River Birch, in honor of the Riverwoods namesake. The three large rocks were brought in during construction, and the Campbells love the natural aspect they add to the landscape. “The only blooming flower we have are some Eureka Heritage bulbs that Marcy and Owen dug up from the old mine site before the high school
20 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
was built,” Chad said. Marcy loves palms. She continues to nurture a palm seedling brought back from Florida, as well as a sego palm in the back yard. Kimberly ferns are another favorite, and recently the Campbells added various herbs— potted lavender, cilantro, oregano and mint.
The blue cross in the yard was made by Tyler as a Mother’s Day gift to his mother. “It’s best to get advice from professionals to develop a yard that suits your family’s lifestyle,” said Chad. “But having limited time to spend working in the yard doesn’t mean you have to have a plain yard.”
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Dave Christie, 88-years-young and still going strong! Since retiring from W. S. Dickey Clay Manufacturing, Dave Christie has established a solid reputation for Christie Lawn Mower & Tiller Repair. He is there, rain or shine, every day but Sunday. Prior to establishing his home business, he served in the U.S. Air Force from 1947-1950 in the Panama Canal Zone. Mr. Christie has lived in this area on Hwy 13 for fifty-six years, and recalls that it was just a dirt when he came here. He has parked various mowers on the front lawn of the Christie Lawn Mower & Tiller Repair Shop. The mowers are from all 50
states, as well as Washington D.C., Mexico and Canada. They are also mounted in alphabetical order. The dates of the plates vary, with the oldest one dating from1928. Mr. Christie is a collector and a crossword enthusiast. His 88-yearold mind remains sharp, and is filled with significant dates and associated details. He was raised in Camp Creek, W.V., near Bloomfield. The door to his office sports a wooden silhouette of his birth state as well as two W.V. license plates, one from 1960. Mr. Christie also tells of the life-size Uncle Sam figure that he made about twenty-five years that held his mailbox. Now at his mailbox is a green road sign, denoting ‘Christie Place.’ It was a gift from his brother a few years back. “Someone asked me, ‘How long you going to work on these lawn mowers?’” he said. “And I said, Until I’m six feet in the ground!”
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Mr. Christie is the oldest member of his family still living, and he plans to live to be at least 100. He and his eleven-yearold dog, Joy, make the most of every day. Dinner is at Cracker Barrel every night except Sunday and Wednesday. Afterwards, he brings home two pork chops (one for Joy) and four biscuits for the visiting cats. As a dedicated member of the Church of Christ since 1960, he joins his church family on Sundays and Wednesday evenings. His mailbox still bears the name of his wife, Nadine, who is now buried in the Shiloh Church graveyard. The couple was married fifty one and a half years. “I was with her every day in the hospital, until I brought her home. I was holding her left hand when she took her last breath,”
said Mr. Christie. Nadine Christie passed away on February 28, 2012, at 3:57 pm. His words of wisdom, “Live life as best you can, and keep your nose clean!” Well said, Dave Christie, well said. Here’s to hearing them announce your 100th birthday on Good Morning America!
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Trey Cotney comes home, hangs his law firm’s shingle in Helena
Trey Cotney is pleased to announce the opening of his law practice in town at 6280 Helena Road, in an office building he shares with Bill Cotney, his father and owner of Cotney Aerospace, just across the road and towards Helena from Bearden Farms. Trey was raised in Helena and attended Helena Elementary, Riverchase Middle and Pelham High. He said two subdivisions were home while growing up: Plantation South in his grade school days and then Cahaba Falls, where his parents, Bill and Debbie, live today. Trey reminisced that his first job was as a paid concession stand worker at age 13 at Penhale Park. “I was excited at the opportunity to have a job. I learned at an early age that there is no substitute for hard work, even if it meant testing the limits of the child labor laws,” he laughed. Trey swam competitively growing up for Hoover Blue Thunder, who had a year round swim program, and Gobbler’s Knob during the summer. During high school and part of college, Trey worked as a lifeguard at the Pelham YMCA. After graduating from Pelham High, he attended Birmingham Southern College where he gradu-
ated with a degree in business in 2009. Trey was elected President of the SGA at BSC his senior year, and says he is proud that he was able to accomplish a lot of things to add to the college experience during his tenure, most notably bringing in Elie Wiesel, famed holocaust survivor, Nobel Laureate, writer and political activist as a guest lecturer to speak to the students about his experiences and the motivations for his work. (On a sad note, Mr. Wiesel died last month in NYC.) Also in 2009, Trey applied and was accepted to Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law, where he earned his law degree in 2012. Since entering the work force, Trey worked in corporate environments: several years with the law firm Fish, Nelson and Holden in Birmingham, and then time with Protective Life in Mountain Brook, but he soon realized how much he missed his hometown and the small town environment in which he’d grown up. So he decided to venture out and hang his shingle right here in Helena. “There’s no place like home,” said Trey, and being able to work in a shared space with his dad and younger brother, Rob, just makes it
all the better. Trey is married to Kristen, an Andalusia native and a Cardiology Fellow at UAB. Trey practices family law, business law, and personal injury law in addition to offering estate
planning and administration. He is eagerly accepting clients and invites everyone to schedule an appointment to discuss their particular legal needs. His office number is 205-787-1425.
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Belles Hold Annual Garden Party at Helena’s Shell B Acres The Helena Belles had their 2016-17 Annual Garden Party Sunday, August 14th, at ShellB Acres. Each year, the Helena Belles are presented for the upcoming year, and this year was special. The Helena Belles have a new partnership with ShellB Acres, which is a gorgeous new Helena event venue off of highway 31. The owner, Bonnie Goodman, is also a professional photographer known as “The Blink Lady.” Bonnie has just become the Belles’ official photographer. It’s a win-win for both. Her photography is amazing, and her venue is gorgeous. This year, the Belles were honored to have Miss Alabama 2016,
Hayley Barber, as their speaker. Mayor Mark Hall and the Helena City Council attended. Meteorologist Brian Peters of ABC 33/40 graciously served as the emcee for the day. This year, the Belles had a special surprise when they added a new tradition — a father/daughter dance. Behind every beautiful Southern Belle is a strong Southern gentleman. In honor of what every father means to his daughter, they danced. The girls and families enjoyed refreshments and music in a beautiful outdoor setting overlooking the lake. It was a wonderful event. The Belles enjoyed every second of the event and look forward to many more.
The ‘Helena Belles’ is a service organization, derived from the traditional Southern Belles in the South. They are the official ambassadors for the city of Helena. The true mark of a Southern Belle is that she is not only intelligent and beautiful, but she is never afraid to lace up her tennis shoes and give generously of her time and talents. Each of Helena’s 58 Belles do just that for the city and local charitable organizations and schools. Each Belle is required to complete a minimum of 30 hours each year, but many contribute much more. Helena Belles must be of good character, have a pleasant personality, exhibit Southern charm, maintain excellent academics for their entire term and enjoy their civic duties of serving their city and local charities. Denise McDonald is honored to serve as the Helena Belles Director and to represent this outstanding organization. Belles photos and cover picture courtesy of Bonnie Goodman, www.TheBlinkLady.com. Photos taken at Shell B Acres, (www.ShellBacres.com).
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Volleyball 2016 Date Aug. 30 Sept. 1 Sept. 7 Sept. 8 Sept. 10 Sept. 13 Sept. 15 Sept. 17 Sept. 20 Sept. 22 Sept. 26 Sept. 27 Sept. 29 Oct. 1 Oct. 4 Oct. 6 Oct. 8 Oct. 11 Oct. 13 Oct. 14 Oct. 15
Opponent Tuscaloosa Co. Trimatch Hillcrest Chilton County Central Tuscaloosa Trimatch Hillcrest Hewitt-Trussville Gardendale Chelsea Tournament Paul Bryant Tournament Mortimer Jordan Chelsea Chelsea Tournament Ramsay Oak Mountain Pelham Clay-Chalkville Chelsea John Carroll Dig in the Park Tournament Homewood Pelham K9 Classic Chilton County Indian Springs Shrimp Fest Tournament Shrimp Fest Tournament
Location Tuscaloosa County Tuscaloosa County Chilton County Central Tuscaloosa Central Tuscaloosa Hewitt-Trussville Hewitt-Trussville Chelsea HS Paul Bryant HS Mortimer Jordan Chelsea HS Chelsea HS Ramsay HS Ramsay HS Helena Helena Helena Helena Spain Park Homewood HS Pelham HS Helena Helena Helena Gulf Shores HS Gulf Shores HS
Time 4:30 5:30 5:00 5:00 6:00 5:00 6:00 TBA TBA 4:30 5:00 TBA 5:00 6:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 5:00 TBA TBA 5:00 TBA 4:30 5:00 TBA TBA
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Park and Recreation Department News Bytes The gazebo at Joe Tucker Park has been refurbished and is ready for park visitors to enjoy. We have also put in new playground bark on the Boundless Playground there and have new swings ordered. Football Season is underway. Football and Cheerleading Camp was held the week of July 18. (Cheer camp shown above. Football Games will begin August 30th. Home Games will be played at the Helena Sports Complex. Schedules will be posted on the website soon, visit www.helenaparkandrec.org. 28 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
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Jane B. Holmes Public Library
JANE B. HOLMES PUBLIC LIBRARY 230 Tucker Rd, Helena 35080 • 664-8308 HOURS: Mon 10:00 am Tues 10:00 am Wed 10:00 am Thurs 10:00 am Fri 10:00 am Sat 10:00 am CLOSED ON SUNDAY
GOOD DAY TO EVERYONE! Great job to everyone who read over the summer! The library saw patrons young and old visit and sign up for our FREE reading program. It turned out to be a lot of fun, and we had some great performances, as well. Special thanks to our Police and Fire Departments, among many others! The library staff worked hard to provide a program which included all ages, and even featured a neat “Olympic” event at the end of the summer! Attention families with young children: The library has a fun Story Time EVERY Tuesday and Thursday at 11:00 AM. This is a great way to explore your community and introduce children to programming featuring fun stories and songs. Ms. Jennie would love to see you soon at Story Time! The annual Book Sale and Library Birthday party is scheduled for Thursday, September 22. Everyone looks forward to this fun event, which raises money for library programs and material, and provides a FUN opportunity to rummage for books at low prices. Thank you to the patrons and citizens of Helena who donate books, movies, and music to the library. These items make our event a success! Speaking of acknowledgement, the library would like to thank the Friends of the Jane B. Holmes Public Library for their continued commitment to making our library the best it can be. These dedicated Friends help with publicity, work on projects, assist with the book sale, and provide great programs. As this summer reading season wound down, the Friends had a fun Trivia Night with food, music, and some great prizes donated by residents, city leaders, and local businesses (Too many to name here!). If you are interested in finding out more about the Friends of the library, feel free to contact Daniel Dearing, Library Director, or attend a meeting on the third Thursday of each month at 6:00 PM at the library. For information about the library and a full calendar of events:
Check out our website at www.cityofhelena. org for the latest events and info. Sincerely, DANIEL DEARING, LIBRARY DIRECTOR LSTA grant – The library received a grant through LSTA which provided great material for our Children’s, Juvenile, and Young Adult departments. This grant, which includes funding from City, State, and Federal organizations, has greatly enhanced our selection of library books. Look for lists of new books in the coming months, and explore on the catalog and shelves for new Titles you may want to check out! Ask your parent (Or yourself) to come to the library and help you get a library card. It can open up a new world to you! Also: Stop by soon for the latest books and action packed movies! Stop by soon to get these Titles! Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts 1 & 2 - Jack Thorne Whitefern - V.C. Andrews Deadly Fate - Heather Graham Night and Day - Iris Johansen The Black Window - Daniel Silva Magic - Danielle Steele Make Me Love You - Johanna Lindsey Defender - Diana Palmer The Games - James Patterson The Pursuit - Janet Evanovich Foreign Agent - Brad Thor Liberty’s Last Stand - Stephen Coonts I Almost Forgot About You - Terry McMillan End of Watch - Stephen King Or the best Movies: Batman V Superman - Ultimate Edition Bluray/Dvd Combo Orphan Black - Season Four The Dresser - Ian McKellen and Anthony Hopkins Green Room - Anton Yelchin, Imogen Poots and Patrick Stewart The Perfect Match - Terrence J, Cassie Ventura, Donald Faison, etc. By the Sea - Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie Pitt
- 7:00 pm - 6:00 pm - 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm - 5:00 pm - 2:00 pm
The Family Fang - Nicole Kidman, Jason Bateman, and Christopher Walken Zootopia - Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman 10 Cloverfield Lane - John Goodman, Mary Elizabeth Winstead Hail Caesar! - Josh Brolin, George Clooney How to Get Away With Murder: The Complete Second Season Risen - Joseph Fiennes Deadpool - Ryan Reynolds The 5th Wave - Tony Revolori, Talitha Bateman Ride Along 2 - Ice Cube, Kevin Hart Jane Got a Gun - Natalie Portman The Revenant - Leonardo DiCaprio The Lady in the Van - Maggie Smith Star Wars the Force Awakens Or check out these Tunes: The Getaway - Red Hot Chili Peppers A Moon Shaped Pool - RadioHead Black - Dierks Bentley Thank You - Meghan Trainor You Should Be Here - Cole Swindell Ripcord - Keith Urban Now That’s What I Call Country 9 Primrose School makes Library donation The Primrose School of Riverwoods recently donated $585 to the Jane B. Holmes Public Library. Owner Kim Wilson and Director Heather Acton presented the check to Library Director Daniel Dearing. The money was raised by Primrose School through the Primrose School of Riverwoods Spring Fling fundraiser.
“A young boy stood in the rain and prayed with each officer as they arrived that night.” Emmanuel Scozzaro
Townspeople show their support for our men & women in blue The Coal Yard recently hosted “Feed Our Heroes,” an event that allowed Helena residents and businesses to show their appreciation for local law enforcement. The 19 Helena police officers who attended enjoyed a complimentary meal with their families. The officers who were unable to attend were given gift cards. Nearly 100 Helena residents gathered outside the restaurant in the rain as a show of support for our Helena Police Department. The decision to host this event was made shortly after the shootings in Dallas on July 7, where several police officers lost their lives. Information about the event
was posted on Facebook during the week leading up to the event. Within a matter of days, Alan Farmer and Emmanuel Scozzaro had raised nearly $5,000 in donations. “A young boy stood in the rain and prayed with each officer as they arrived that night,” said Emmanuel. “We received a five dollar donation from an elderly resident who said, ‘It’s all I can afford, but I want them to know that I appreciate what they do,” and the resident who called us early on and said that they would pay for whatever was needed to make the event a success.” The City of Helena is thankful to the police department for the
30 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
hard work they do to keep us safe. Likewise. the Helena Police Department was incredibly grateful for the love and support from Helena’s citizens. Police Chief Pete Folmar released the following statement: “The citizens of Helena showed once again that they are a caring and compassionate group. They reached out to their Law Enforcement professionals in a time of great sadness and uncertainty, and it boosted our spirits and let us know that they appreciate and care about us and what we do. We see that every day in Helena, and it reminds us of what a great city we serve and what great people live here. I know that there
is a lot of political rhetoric going on around these tragic recent events, but nothing can excuse the mass murder, and nothing can be allowed to overshadow the sacrifice that those officers made. It is good to be reminded that 99.9 percent of citizens appreciate law enforcement and want nothing more than to help us and allow us to do our jobs and go home to our families at the end of the day.” Well said, Chief. And another big thanks to the men who wear the blue uniforms and the job they do in keeping all of us safe!
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Jake Scoggins is a local hero after saving child from a dog attack Jake Scoggins barely had his key in the door of his family’s Dearing Downs home when he heard screams echoing from behind him. The Helena High School student dropped his things and turned to see a toddler being dragged around by a big dog in the backyard of the neighbors across the street. “At first, I thought the dog had a doll in its mouth,” Jake said. “ but then I realized a little girl in the yard was screaming ‘help, get off my nephew,’ so I ran over as fast as I could. When I hear screaming, it makes me think someone’s in pain, and I don’t want that for anyone.” When Jake reached the dog, an adult rescue animal named Lucy and owned by a family member, it still had a solid hold on the bloody two-year-old boy and was dragging him across the
yard shaking him back and forth. Jake kicked the dog and grabbed the boy, holding him close to his chest and following the still hysterical aunt inside the house. “I think he was in shock,” Jake said. “He just kept saying, ‘I’m all red.’” When Jake told the boy’s family that he ‘ran over quickly’ to help, the child’s grandfather thought he said he had run over the boy until he told him about the dog. “He seemed very grateful that I did something; everyone else was rushing around, understandably,” Jake said. First Jake called his mom, and then the police. Afterward, when Jake recounted the story to his family, his twin sister Savannah asked him, “Did you not think the dog would bite you?” Jake replied, “I didn’t care what happened to me,
I just cared about getting the kid away from that dog.” Later, the family of the toddler learned that he had no broken bones and minor surgery on his left arm at Children’s Hospital the afternoon of the attack closed up his wound. The boy’s stepgrandmother talked to Tamara Temerson Love, Jake’s mom, to give her updates on the boy’s condition and to thank Jake. “I guess it does make me feel good now, knowing I could step up and do something to help, but at the time, I was just concerned for his safety,” Jake said. “I’d do it again if I needed to.”
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Helena combines First Friday and annual 4th of July celebration!
This year, the City of Helena’s annual 4th of July Celebration was combined with First Friday. Those who attended enjoyed food trucks from local vendors, local clubs and organizations and live music from the 572nd Air Force Band. This is the biggest First Friday in Helena’s history. The City of Helena thanks everyone for their continuous support of local businesses.
”
Helena is the place for families and friends!
32 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
Helena welcomes Therapy South Physical Therapy to town North Shelby Co. resident Nolan Williams opened Therapy South’s first physical therapy clinic here in Helena on June 6th. Originally from Jasper, Nolan has been a North Shelby Co. resident for six years now. He is currently the clinic’s Director and Physical Therapist. Nolan is a graduate of Walker High, where he was a baseball star. He earned a scholarship to play baseball for Faulkner University in Montgomery, and graduated in ’06. He then went to PT School at UAB. “I got hurt a lot playing ball in high school, but physical therapists always got me rehabbed and back on the field where I was as good as new,” said Nolan. “That’s when I decided that becoming a physical therapist would be the type of rewarding career I wanted to pursue.”
As a three year program, Nolan said the PT school regimen at UAB can be trying. He graduated from UAB in 2009 with his Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree. Nolan also received his Manual Therapy Certification from the University of St. Augustine in Florida in 2014. According to Nolan, Therapy South emphasizes hands-on-care and spending time with their patients every day. “Our company has an excellent working relationship with UAB,” he said. Nolan first became acquainted with and impressed by Therapy South while he was a UAB student. “They employ a lot of UAB graduates, and I was very happy to become one of them.” Nolan worked in both the
Hoover and McCalla offices as the staff physical therapist before becoming the Clinic Director at the Hueytown location. “The company had been watching Helena grow and prosper and decided to open its own clinic here this summer,” he said. According to Nolan, feedback from residents of Helena has been overwhelmingly positive. “I can’t tell you how many people have just randomly stopped
in here to just tell us how happy they are we are here and how nice it is to have a professional physical therapist located so conveniently to them,” said Nolan. Nolan and his wife, Ashley, have been married for 10 years. They have two children: Jake, 7 and Aubrey, 5. Welcome to the neighborhood, Nolan and Therapy South!
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Kathryn Webb Graduates Auburn Pharmacy School Auburn University’s James I. Harrison School of Pharmacy held its Spring 2016 commencement ceremony Tuesday, May 10 at Auburn Arena. Among the graduates was Helena native Kathryn Hester Webb. Webb is a 2009 graduate of Evangel Christian School. She is the daughter of Sonya Hester and the wife of Luke Webb. Before she enrolled in pharmacy school, she completed her prerequisites at Auburn. Webb has recently accepted a full-time position with Walgreens in Birmingham and will also be working for Covington Healthcare Associates as a consultant.
We are excited to announce our new clinic in Helena! Nolan Williams, DPT, MTC, and his staff are here to help. Call us to make a physical therapy appointment today. 205.624.4708 | 4690 Hwy 17 | Helena, AL 35080
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Coaches top row, l-r: Calvin Wilburn, Scott Gibbs, Pete Bryan, Jason Green; Middle row, l-r: Grant Peoples, Reese Wilburn, Logan Green, Connor Gibbs, Tucker Bryan, Mac Turner; bottom row l-r: Charlie Marshall, Ryan Storey, Brody McAbee, Garrett Morton, Braiden Jones
Shelby Sidewinders place 2nd at Grand Slam World Series
Col. Scott Graham retires with 29 years of service to the nation Long time Helena resident Col. Scott Graham recently retired from the Alabama Air National Guard. He dedicated 29 years of service to both the Air National Guard and the Air Force. He is originally from Prattville, Alabama. He graduated from the University of Alabama in 1987, with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering. He received his pilot wings from Reese AFB in Lubbock, Texas as an undergraduate student. He also attended Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College and Air War College. He was assigned to Castle AFB in California, where he flew the KC-Stratotanker. Several of the follow-on assignments he took include Robins AFB in Georgia and BHAM ANGB. He was also an Instructor Pilot and Evaluator Pilot in the KC-135 A/R/Q models. Col. Graham accumulated more than 7,000 hours of flight, including 1,200 combat flight hours. Col. Graham is also a veteran of
operations Desert Storm, Southern Watch, Northern Watch, the Kosovo Campaign, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Before his retirement, he served as the Operations Group commander for the 117th Air Refueling Wing in Birmingham. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal with the silver oak leaf, the Aerial Achievement Medal with 4 bronze oak leaves and the Air Force Commendation medal with 4 bronze oak leaves. As he retired, Col. Graham was awarded with the Legion of Merit for his exceptional conduct and his performance of outstanding services and achievements. The Legion of Merit is the sixth most prestigious U.S. Military award. Col. Graham and his wife, Charlotte, live in Riverwoods with their children, Josh and Katie. The family has lived in Helena for over 20 years. Congratulations, Col. Graham, and thank you for your service.
34 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
The 2016 Shelby Sidewinders 12U baseball team recently completed their spring season with a 2nd place finish at the Grand Slam World Series in Panama City Beach, FL. The double elimination tournament began June 20th and ended June 25th. In that week the Sidewinders played against other 12U teams from five different states and finished with a record of 4 wins, 2 losses and a tie. Beginning in early March and ending with the recent appearance in Florida, the team played in nine tournaments. Out of those nine tournaments they had two 1st place finishes, two 2nd place finishes and one 3rd place finish. Formed in 2011 by head coach Calvin Wilburn, the team was started with one goal in mind— To develop young “home town” players for the challenges of playing middle and high school baseball for the Helena Schools
in the highly competitive Shelby County area. Unlike many “travel” baseball teams which are comprised of highly skilled and recruited players from many different areas and school systems, the Sidewinders all hail from Helena. The team has been together since the boys were seven years old and they all now attend Helena Middle School. In the world of “travel baseball,” it’s extremely challenging to compete against the “hired gun” teams made up of players hand picked and brought together for the sole purpose of winning trophies. But for Helena’s Shelby Sidewinders, the belief in team consistency, family commitment and local player development are the secrets to their high levels of success. The boys are so proud to represent Helena around the Southeast and honored to call Helena home!
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CrossFit Furious expands to larger facility after four years in Helena Blake Matthews grew up in nearby Hoover, and graduated in 2001 from Hoover High School. He is now the proud owner of CrossFit Furious, a gym that uses CrossFit training techniques to help its members get into shape. Even though he looks like an NFL linebacker, Blake says his game has always been basketball, and in fact, he earned a scholarship out of high school to play for the Blazers at UAB. “I liked basketball better than schoolwork though,” said Blake. He soon found himself transferring to Wallace State Community College, and then to Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta, Georgia. He graduated from SPSU in 2005, where his team was ranked No. 1 nationally for much of his senior year. “We had guys from big programs all over the country there,”
he said. “Guys who didn’t have the grades to stay at the bigger schools found a home there in the NAIA [National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics]. We had guys from Duke, Georgetown, Xavier and others. Seven of my teammates went pro,” he said. Blake had a chance to do the same before a severe back injury pushed him towards the coaching/personal training profession. He got his first job out of school coaching Junior Varsity girls basketball at his alma mater, Hoover High School. About that time, he rented a building and began to offer personal training, calling his first venture “Build-A-Body.” After two years of one-on-one training, he decided he could reach more people by adopting a group concept but still keeping it adaptable so that people from all skill and fitness levels could
participate and see improvements while still getting personal instruction. Four years ago, Blake opened his first “CrossFit Furious at No Limits Sports Academy” here in Helena in the Riverwoods Shops along Hwy 52 West. Needing more space because of the popularity of the CrossFit concept, he just purchased a warehouse behind Old Town Helena at 202 Rolling Mill Road. He is currently finishing the build out, and the facility is home now to Crossfit Furious. Blake is the owner and the trainer at CrossFit Furious, and
he specializes in offering personal attention for each member. Convenient exercise sessions are available Monday through Friday at 5:15am, 12:30 pm, 4:30, 5:30 and 6:30 pm. There is also a morning session at 9:30 on Saturday. Anyone who is interested in training at CrossFit Furious can call them at (205) 620-1255, e-mail them at crossfitfurious@ yahoo.com or stop by their new larger exercise facility.
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Montevallo students from Helena give back to community
Every year, the University of Montevallo hosts a class known as “The Summer Harvest” during the summer semester. This year, Helena natives Haley Freeman and Lauren Jordan helped cultivate an organic community garden in Montevallo while taking the class. Throughout the semester, the two friends learned about the biology of plants and their nutritional value. They also learned about certain aspects of sociology, including poverty, obesity, malnutrition and food deserts (urban areas where healthy food is scarce). The students grew okra, beans, peas, tomatoes, cucumbers and corn, as well as many other types of fruits and vegetables. The food grown in the garden is collected and donated to Shelby Emergency Assistance, a nonprofit organization that provides food, clothing and other necessities to Shelby County residents who are facing a food crisis. Shelby Emergency Assistance began in 1973 through the efforts of local individuals concerned about the needs of others in our community. These individuals, working as volunteers, developed the basic philosophy that guides the oranization’s services today.
In 1977, the agency became affiliated with United Way of Central Alabama, which led to its expansion of services to cover all of Shelby County. Since that time, SEA has continued to develop a comprehensive array of services directed toward providing basic needs and promoting positive change.” At SEA, no food is wasted. Volunteers are encouraged to share any excess food with their friends, family and neighbors. Both Helena students said that they thoroughly enjoyed the class lectures, volunteering for SEA and getting their hands dirty working in the garden. “This is one of the best classes I have taken at Montevallo,” said Haley, who is a college senior. “We are not only learning valuable and useful information, but we also get to give back to the community and help those in need.” The University of Montevallo plans to continue their “Summer Harvest” class in future years. Lauren and Haley hope that this community garden will inspire other communities to come together and establish their own garden to share with those who are less fortunate.
36 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
“We are not only learning valuable and useful information, but we also get to give back to the community and help those in need.” Haley Freeman UM Senior
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$26,420.00 raised at the 2016 Buck Creek Festival! The Buck Creek Festival raised $26,420.00 in funds to distribute this year. The proceeds of the event benefit various organizations in Helena. This year, the money was allotted to the following groups: • Helena Belles: $300 • Christ Community Church: $400 • Helena Lions Club: $700 • Helena Fire Explorers: $500 • Police Explorers: $500 with an additional $700 for shuttle use • Helena Library: $500 • Helena Schools: $1000 each • Kiwanis and Key Club raised $4,085 for the Boundless Playground • Helena Band Boosters: $12, 495 from duck sales Since its inception, the Buck Creek Festival has raised $253,827 for charitable causes. Thanks to Cris Nelson and her many volunteers for all of their hard work in planning and making the Buck Creek Festival happen each year!
38 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
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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. Church
New Elam Baptist Church Cunningham Drive • 663-2230 Rev. Lester Sunday School 10:00 am Morning Worship 11:00 am
Highway 261 • 201-5531 Rev. Wilma Merriweather Sunday School 10:00 am Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 am
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
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 Rev. Pete Hubhins, Jr. Pastor Sunday School 10:00 am Sunday Worship 11:00 am
CHRISTIAN—DISCIPLES OF CHRIST Grace Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 869 Highway 52 • 426-1233 Rev. Tommy Morgan gracechristianchurch.org Sunday School 9:00 am Sunday Worship 10:00 am
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
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ at Helena
Highway 261 • 663-5257 Rev. Edwin D. Dinkins • mpbchelena.com Sunday School 10:00 am Morning Worship 11:00 am
2499 Highway 58 • 620-4575 Evgs Curtis Flatt & Bryan Moody church-of-christ.org Sunday School 9:30 am Morning Worship 10:30 am
EPISCOPAL Lamb of God Charismatic Episcopal
New Vision Christian Church
2383 Highway 95 • 664-4333 Pastor Van C. Houser, Sr. • nvcc4god.org 5140 County Road 17 • 378-8022 Sunday Corporate Prayer 9:00 am Rev. Glenn E. Davis • lambofgodcec.org Sunday Worship 10:15 am Children’s Church 10:00 am Sunday Worship 10:00 am
Voice of Faith Int’l Ministries
METHODIST Helena United Methodist Church 2035 County Road 58 • 663-0111 Dr. Mary Henley • helenaumc.org Worship 9am Traditional, 11am Contemporary
The Church at Cahaba Bend
1560 Cunningham Drive • 663-7396 Rev. Franklin L. Kirksey Sunday Worship 7:00 & 10:00 am Thursday Bible Teaching 10:00 am
PRESBYTERIAN Christ Community Church
3721 Highway 52 W • 621-8060 Rev. Lori Carden • 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!
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40 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
Philip Parker attends Alabama Governor’s School this summer at Samford University
HHS parents rally together after a family’s tragedy Several Helena High School parents banded together after two HHS football players lost their father, Craig Knight, Wednesday, August 8th. Friends of the Knight family began taking donations for the family’s expenses on Husky Day, only three days after the tragedy occured. “The thing about Helena is that we really try to take care of each other, especially when your kids have all grown up together. We love each other. We are one big, extended family,” said family friend Gayla Peoples.
Donations will be taken at the Spirit Shop in the HHS Football Stadium at every home game for the duration of the football season. The organizers are also in the process of setting up a GoFundMe page for the family. “The community is rallying around this family,” said organizer Connie Green. Before his passing, Mr. Knight served as a Helena police officer and coached football and baseball for the city’s youth league. Our deepest condolences to the Knight family during this difficult time.
Helena High School student Philip Parker attended the Alabama Governor’s School at Samford University in June. Parker was one of 92 rising high school seniors who were selected for the two week honors program. The students received college level experiences through academic work, displaying creativity and developing leadership skills. Each student selected a college major and a minor, and attended morning and afternoon classes. They also participated in a community service project, attended a Birmingham Barons game, learned about the college admission process and listened to a guest speaker who founded an orphanage in Peru. The Alabama Governor’s School’s theme is “American Vision: World View.” It is an honors
program. Students from different backgrounds and regions of Alabama receive the opportunity to interact with professors and professionals from a variety of career fields. ASG offers academic and extracurricular activities that promote fieldwork, problem solving and application skills. Applicants are required to submit recommendation letters from teachers and guidance counselors as well as written essays. This year, the average ACT score among ASG participants was 28.8. The average SAT score was 1891. Since the program’s inception 1987, over 2,000 high school students have attended the Alabama Governor’s School.
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PLEASE PRAY FOR OUR ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY PERSONNEL… We’re the Home of the Free Because of the Brave!
SGT Jon M. Aaron 4/14 K CO (DET B), UNIT 43671, FPO AP 96426-3671; Al Anbar, Iraq; Karen Dickinson’s son
SGT Brooks Gray USA; Ranger; Scofield BKS, HI; John Gray’s son, Lauren & Ryan Gray’s brother
SGT Peter J. “Pete” Reese ARNG; 152nd MP Co.; Lauren’s husband; Kai, Sam, Dalton, Brook & Kaiti’s father
SGT Steven M. Bennett USA; Paratrooper/Rigger; Fort Benning, GA; Clara & Ken Lorino’s son
SRA Brad Hubbard USAF Fort Gordon - Augusta, GA Rod & Susan Hubbard’s son
SFC Eric Bond USA; 82nd ABD, 1-504 PIR; Baghdad, Iraq; Paul Zimmerman’s cousin
SPC Michael Hubbard USA; Camp Liberty, Iraq; Ruth Meadows grandson, Kimberly’s husband, Bonnie Hubbard’s brother
LCPL Casey B. Reitz USMC, MCSF Battalion, Naval Submarine Base, King’s Bay, GA; Tom and Suzi’s son, brother of Tommy, Joey, and Emily.
Captain Joshua Bowen USA; 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division; Fort Carson, CO; Tom and Susan Bowen’s son, Fallon’s husband
SPC Eric Hunley ARNG; 1/167 Inf. Bn Co. B, Operation Enduring Freedom; Afghanistan; Mike & Barbara Hunley’s son; late Chris Hunley’s brother
Captain Fallon Bowen USA; Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division; 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 Division, 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 USA; 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 2nd LT Eric C Darrenkamp USA; Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, HI; Carol Darrenkamp’s son, Jon & Stephen’s brother AEAN Benjamin Lee Doaks USN; NAS Jacksonville, FL; Joe & Tammy Williams’ son, Rev. Clifton & Mattie Taylor’s grandson LCPL Jared M. Fitzgerald USMC; 9th Communication Battalion; Camp Pendleton; CA; Rosemarie Butler’s son and Jeff’s stepson, Justin and Tyler’s brother Petty Officer 3rd Class Justin D. Gilbert USCG, Machinery Technician; Key West, FL; Leslie’s husband, Annette & Dan Duffy’s son-in-law SSG Jay Gortney ARNG; 20th Special Forces; Iraq; April’s husband
CPL Michael Jeffries ARNG; 1/167 Infantry Battalion Company B, Operation Enduring Freedom; Afghanistan; Amy’s husband, Colin & Gavin’s father MC1 Andrew “AJ” Johnson US Navy; Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU); Dam Neck Annex, NAS Oceana; Virginia Beach, VA. LT Commander David Kang USN; White House, Washinton, DC; Stanley & Sue Kang’s son, Sunny Kang’s brother 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 U.S. Air Force; 90th SFS Tactical Response Force; FE Warren AFB; Cheyenne, Wyoming Ken & Jo McGinnis’ son Petty Officer 3rd Class Erik B. McKenzie USN; USS Curtis Wilber, Yokosuka, Japan; Bond & Lisa McKenzie’s son, Brooke’s brother, Megan’s husband 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 SSGT Christopher S. Murphy USMC; MWHS 3, San Diego, CA; Jack & Karen Murphy’s son, Alyssa’s husband
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 Cpl Rodney Stephens ARNG; 152nd Military Police Task Force 382nd, Iraq; Andrea & AnnaBelle’s father 2LT John M Traylor, Jr USAF; 552nd TRS; Tinker AFB, OK; Mark & Karole Traylor’s son PFC Zachary S Traylor USMC; 3-23 Inf; Baton Rouge, LA; Mark & Karole Traylor’s son 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 E3 Spencer R. Wood USN Corpman; Balboa Hospital; San Diego, CA Rish & Christa Wood’s son, Whitney Brown’s stepbrother
LT Commander Kimberly A. Oelschlager USN; US Navy Hospital (Balboa)-Physician’s Asst., San Diego, CA; Ted & the late Sara Oelschlager’s daughter Chief Petty Officer Termaine J. Pruitt USN; NAS Pensacola, FL; Termaine Jr, Trevorn, Chelicia & Tristin’s father, Janice & Austin Pruitt’s son
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!
HHS football team moves up to 6A classification, needs community sponsorship to make 7th Grader turns improvements to necessary upgrades school into his Eagle Scout project The Huskies are moving to the 6A classification for the 2016/2017 Garrett Fleet, a 7th grader at Helena Middle School, recently completed his Eagle Scout project by repairing the outdoor classroom at HMS. According to HMS principal Scott Knight, Garrett painted it, cleaned it up and added new dry erase boards. “Garrett hadn’t ever gone out there with his teachers,” said his mother, Betsy Fleet. “But he knew that some of the benches were broken and the writing board was rotting.” According to Mrs. Fleet, Garrett was inspired to do the project after a neghbor, who was involved in the HMS Student Government Association, mentioned how badly the outdoor classroom had fallen into disrepair.
“Garrett informed me that he didn’t want to wait until the last minute to complete his Eagle Scout project,” said Mrs. Fleet. “He came up with some really great ideas, and then spent hours in the sun with no complaints, and I’m very proud of him.” According to Coach Knight, Garrett’s Eagle Scout project now allows the school to educate students from a different setting. “Garrett did an outstanding job. It takes a lot of dedication. He’s a great student and citizen, and completing this project says a lot about his character. We’re very appreciative that he chose our school to to make some improvements that were badly needed,” said Coach Knight.
school year. This move is going to bring some great competition and much larger crowds. Along with this move, the program is also required to make several upgrades to its athletic facilities. The HAA needs your support. Here are some of the ways you can help: • Stadium Sponsorship • Football Season Tickets • Football Reserved Parking • Engraved Brick Sale • Stadium Sponsorship • Helena Athletic Association Membership You can visit the HAA website at www.helenaathleticassociation.org to become a member and get all the details about current fundraisers. Husky Day was Saturday, August 13th. There was plenty of football and fun for the entire family. It was a great start to the season. The HAA meets quarterly at the high school field house. Please join the group at their next meeting on October 2nd. They appreciate your support and look forward to a great year. Go Huskies!
Local artist donates painting to the City of Helena Fay Hutto Black presented a painting to the City of Helena at the July 25th Helena City Council meeting. She began her art training at Ward-Belmont College in Nashville and earned a degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She taught public school art for two years, and was employed as an illustrator for the U.S. Engineers in Vicksburg, Mis-
sissippi. Since 1954, she has painted and taught private classes as well as art classes at the Vestavia Hills Civic Center. Her work has been featured in seven one-woman shows in the Birmingham area, and her paintings are in collections both in the U.S. and abroad. She has received awards in a variety of media—oils, watercolor, graphics, acrylics
and originated an unusual technique called “batik printing.” The flag painting on canvas, presented to the City of Helena, is done in her favorite medium, acrylic. Several works by Fay Hutto Black can be viewed in the gallery space throughout the fall at The CoalYard Restaurant in Old Town.
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In the last issue, we mistakenly put the wrong picture for Molly Dillahunty in the outstandingf 8th Grader Section for HMS students. Our apologies and best wishes to Molly for a great Helena High School experience!
Molly Dillahunty “My favorite memories at HMS would be meeting all the amazing new friends I have come to love.” Molly’s favorite HMS teacher is Mrs. Conner. “She is an outstanding teacher and makes learning Spanish so much more enjoyable. I don’t know what I will do next year without her!” Molly’s parents are the most influential people in her life. “They do everything for me and sacrifice so much to help me. They have taught and are still teaching me so much.”
Brandon Beers attends Boy’s State Brandon Beers represented Helena High School at the American Legion Boys State in early June. The program, which was held at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, aims to educate male students about their local, state and county governments. Boys State teaches high school juniors by having them act as government officials and
participate in their government’s legislative process. Brandon was received the American Legion Auburn University James E. Jeffrey Outstanding Leadership Award, as well as a 4-year tuition scholarship to Auburn. “He was extremely excited, since Auburn University was where he was really wanting to go,” his mother said.
Lt. Col. David Crenshaw In the last issue, Lt. Col. David Crenshaw’s family was inadvertently left out of the article on National Guard Lt. Colonels in Helena. Our apologies to his wife, Traci Lynn, and their son, Drew, 16, who is a student at Helena High School. The family calls the Timberlake neighborhood home. Thank you again, Lt. Col. David Crenshaw, for your service to our nation! 44 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org
Boom Shaka-Laka BBQ and Que’s Brothers have the best butts in town! The Helena Farmer’s Market held a competition to determine who made the best Boston butts in town on Saturday, June 25th. The competition named two winners. One winner would receive the People’s Choice Award, which was determined by donations given to support the Helena Belles. The other winner would receive the Judges’ Award. After much deliberation, the Judges’ Award was presented to Que’s Brothers. The People’s Choice Award was presented to Boom Shaka-Laka BBQ. $2,519.26 was raised for the Helena Belles. The money will go towards their scholarship fund, which will help pay for some college tuition. Congratulations guys!
National Night Out Helena, 2016 The Helena Police and Fire Departments hosted their National Night Out August 2 at 6:00 p.m. at the Helena Marketplace. The National Night Out program is intended to promote positive relationships between citizens and public safety providers. Those who attended had the opportunity to meet their local police officers and firefighters, share in refreshments and see emergency vehicles and equipment that is used daily in the City of Helena. Refreshments and prizes were provided by Wal-Mart, Jack’s and Coca-Cola. A special thanks is given to these sponsors.
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HHS graduate makes Auburn’s Tiger Eyes Dance Team This past thanksgiving, Helena native Alex Crowe traveled to London to dance in their New Year’s Day Parade. Alex went as a member of the Universal Dance Association’s All-American Team. “My favorite part was seeing everyone’s face light up when they watched our dance. I hope these opportunities continue to fall before me,” said Alex. Alex is a 2016 graduate of Helena High School, and plans
to attend Auburn University this fall. Recently, Alex was selected to be part of Auburn’s 2016-2017 Tiger Eyes Dance Team. Out of 50 girls, only 14 made the team. “Alex is looking forward to dancing in her school colors this fall and making friends who will last a lifetime,” said Alex’s mother. “We can’t wait to see where she will go next.” Congratulations, Alex!
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Helena City News SHOP HELENA FIRST!
PRESORT STD. U.S.POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 15 PELHAM, AL
P.O. Box 50, Helena, AL 35080 www.MyHelenaCityNews.com www.CityOfHelena.org
MAYOR
Mark R. Hall
CITY CLERK Amanda Traywick
CITY COUNCIL
Leigh Hulsey Pres. Pro-Tem, Place 1 Mike Jones, Place 2 Cris Nelson, President, Place 3 Leslie Bartlett, Place 4 Hal Woodman, Place 5
POSTAL PATRON
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
Time for some Helena Husky Football! SCHEDULE INSIDE See you at Husky Stadium Home games played Friday nights at 7p.m.
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48 Late Summer 2016 / www.CityOfHelena.org