Helena City News by Dave Smith

Helena City News Serving the City of Helena and the surrounding area

Late Spring 2019

HMS Huskies Softball team Wins

Southern Conference Championship

FOURTH TIME IN A ROWâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;FINISH SEASON UNDEFEATED AT 32-0!

MARKET DAYS IS BACK EACH SATURDAY!

Starting June 1 and running through August. Complete details inside.

CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS! Come party in Old Town and watch a great fireworks show. Fun starts at 5:30pm.

CAHABA RIVER PARK OPENS, HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING

State/County joint park & trails project opens off Hwy 13 on River Road. Story inside.

www.MyHelenaCityNews.com / www.CityofHelena.org

FROM THE MAYOR Greetings! I hope this edition of the Helena City News finds you all well. This is always a busy and special time of the year in Helena as we kick off the Summer season with the Buck Creek Festival and celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2019 at Helena High School. I am so proud of the accomplishments and achievements these graduates have made. Congratulations to all the scholarship recipients and a special thanks to the students who will be joining the U.S. Armed Forces and National Guard. I am a firm believer that awesome students make good schools and good schools build a great community. We are very fortunate to have both. Speaking of festivals, I can’t say enough about the hard work that all the volunteers put forth to put on one of the best events in our state each year, the Buck Creek Festival. These volunteers work tirelessly each year to provide a fun and family-friendly event that draws thousands of people from all over the Metro area to Old Town for the event. The group is responsible for giving thousands of dollars back to community groups and even provide scholarships to several students each year from Helena High. Thank you for all you have done to make this event a huge success each year. As many of you know by now, the committee has informed us that they will be retiring as the festival organizers this year, and this will be their last festival as such. I really hate to see this group of dedicated

volunteers retire but totally understand their position in doing so. Their commitment and service to this community will never be forgotten. With that said, I am happy to report that a new committee is being formed after several of our community volunteers and business people have committed their time and efforts to reorganize and keep the festival going! There will still be great entertainment and, of course, the famous Rubber Duck Race will continue to raise money for local charities and community groups. We will have more on this after the current festival committee concludes its business and the new committee starts work during the off season for next year’s event. There will be more great opportunities to volunteer as well, and new contact information will be published soon. In other news, the repaving of the street to the Library and Joe Tucker Park has been completed and construction on the additional tennis court in Joe Tucker Park has begun. The upgrades of the football field playing surface and running track at Helena High is making progress as well. Both projects should be complete by the end of summer—just in time for fall sports. The additional tennis courts will support our middle school and high school tennis teams, and the track and field improvements will allow the schools to host track and field competitions which they previously could not do without the special rubberized surface on the track that is required. The new playing surface on the football field will allow year-round use by football, soccer, and the band allowing them to host more

MAYOR Mark R. Hall

CITY COUNCIL Hal Woodman, Council President Laura Joseph, Pro Tempore Leigh Hulsey Alice Lobell Brian Puckett 2 Winter 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

events and save the school money on maintenance and upkeep, not to mention mitigating efforts to handle storm water runoff from fertilizers and water that will no longer be needed. A new ordinance was introduced to the City Council to allow companies like Verizon to upgrade their infrastructure for fiber, broadband and small cell networks. I expect others like AT&T will follow so that small cell networks can be added. They tell me that this will allow their companies to provide future upgrades for faster and more reliable broadband and internet services in the Helena areas that are currently in their coverage footprint. I am very pleased to report that after our last year-end audit, the City of Helena remains on firm financial ground. While we have a small operating

budget compared to other cities around us, I assure you that we use your hardearned tax dollars wisely and as efficiently as possible to improve services and provide improvements whenever possible. Please remember to shop and patronize Helena businesses whenever possible so that your tax dollars remain here to support our community. In closing, I would like to remind you to visit and attend all our many activities and festivals here in the city. There is something going on in Helena that everyone can enjoy. I hope everyone has a great summer and remember: “Helena, It’s Where You Want to Be!” Best Wishes,

Mark

A sad farewell to six graduating Teen Council members…

Six senior members of the Helena Teen Council were recognized for their contributions at the May 13 meeting of the Helena City Council. They are pictured above with Mayor Hall and Councillor/Teen Council Liaison Alice Lobell: The students are: Lola DeCroes, Taylor Causey, Madison Laney, Jacob Bradford and Kirsen Gardner. Not available for the photo: Cassidy McGrew. Our thanks and best wishes go out to this group of future leaders as they chart their paths forward!

CITY CLERK Amanda Traywick

IMPORTANT CITY 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

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Crabcakes and fresh seafood are back!

In case you haven’t heard, Michael Lee, the man who trained as a sous chef at Fox Valley Restaurant for 19 years before venturing out on his own to open Mikey’s Grill in the Southlake Shopping Center, is coming to town. His Southlake restaurant location has become an institution, flying in the freshest seafood from the Gulf twice a week from a supplier who supplies seafood to fine dining restaurants all along the Eastern Seaboard—from Florida to New York. Michael has partnered with the Fox Valley property’s owner, Danny Griffin, to open Mikey’s at Fox Valley in the building that housed Fox Valley Restaurant at the corner of Hwy 17 and CR 44. “I stopped by awhile back to eat brunch at the restaurant that was operating in Danny’s building at the time, and went over to ask him to call me if the building were ever to become available,” said Michael. “After that business closed, Danny came to talk to me. We discussed it, and a partnership was formed on the spot.” ”Plans are to open in May. I look forward to serving up the same great food for which we have become known and serving it up to Helena diners hungry for something delicious.” “We will operate as an upper end sports bar and offer our full restaurant menu here, too,” said Michael, who took me to the kitchen and held up a

4 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

large fish from a box of ice. “This red snapper was swimming in the Gulf yesterday,” he said with a grin. Impressive. “The best meals start with the best ingredients,” he continued, “and you can’t find seafood any fresher than at Mikey’s unless you catch them yourself. We will have big screen TVs to catch all the sports action, and we will offer live entertainment Thursday-Saturday on the patio. We’ll try to keep our entrees at $25 or less for the most part, but still offer chef-inspired dishes designed to please most every palate.” “Stuffed fish dishes are our best specialties,” he went on, “from Tile fish to Red Snapper. All our seafood is shipped to us twice a week by Greg Abrams, whose business in Panama City, FL is known as Tarpon Docks Seafood. You can rest assured that when you order seafood at Mikey’s Southlake or the new Mikey’s at Fox Valley, it was swimming in the ocean just a day or so before you eat it.” “We grind all our own meat for burgers, too. Beef tenderloin and ribeye trimmings make up our big and juicy burgers, and I promise you will not find a more flavorful one anywhere,” said Michael with confidence. Michael’s mom, Donna Lee, makes all the restaurant’s desserts from scratch, and diners salivate over her bread pudding, double chocolate Godiva cheesecake, raspberry white chocolate cheesecake and my own favorite,

Donna’s eight layer chocolate cake. While talking with Michael in April at his Southlake location, a luncheon visitor stopped by our table as his party was leaving. “You can’t get this type of seafood in Oregon where we’re from,” he said. “My wife is originally from Maryland, and we go there occasionally, too. Mikey’s crab cakes put theirs to shame,” he continued, with all in his party shaking their heads in agreement. “It’s been awhile since fresh, delicious crab cakes were available in Helena, but that is about to change,” Mikey said. “Watch for special themed evenings at Mikey’s at Fox Valley, like Bourbon and Burgers,” said Michael. “We make our own corn dogs, too” he added, “and we will offer variations at times, making them with Andouille sausage, alligator or wild boar.” Michael said the restaurant uses lots of pecans which he grows on his Chilton County farm. “We harvested over 132 lbs of them last year,” he said. He uses them in coatings for some of his seafiood dishes and of course, Miss Donna uses them in some of her dessert creations. Did I mention that at Mikey’s, they make their own bread? They do, and it is soooo good. Be sure to watch for Facebook posts as to exact dates for opening and the special theme nights. Make plans now to check out some of Central Alabama’s finest seafood at Mikey’s at Fox Valley!

“I look forward to serving up the same great food for which we have become known and serving it up to Helena diners hungry for something delicious.”

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Beautiﬁcation Board hosts annual Planting Day April 13 in Old Town Helena On Saturday, April 13th, the Helena Beautification Board hosted its annual Planting Day in Old Town Helena. This annual event is staffed solely with volunteers from the community who gather at the Caboose Welcome Center in Old Town where they receive handson education on how to plant the hanging baskets and pole planters that have come to symbolize the start of spring time in Helena. A total of 28 baskets were planted this year using about 200 plants of different varieties. Annuals were also planted during the event in planters at the welcome center and at city hall. To learn more about the plants used for the Old Town baskets, visit Helenabeautiful.com/baskets.html. “As a part of our commitment to sustainability, we wanted to source local plants wherever pos-

sible, this board worked hard over the past year to find sources for plants that are grown right here in the state. I’m proud to announce that every plant we are using for this year’s planting day were grown right here in Alabama, beautification board Vice Chairman Brian Puckett said. In keeping with the Beautification Board’s mission of improving education and to create a sense of community for the residents of Helena, our approach to beautification is somewhat different, says Board Chairman Chris VanCleave. There is something to be said for citizens gathering together to accomplish a common goal and with over 75 volunteers ranging in age from 13-75 turning out this year to help, a lot of knowledge was shared, some friendships were made and in the process, we cultivate more than plants, we cultivate an enriched

sense of belonging and self-worth that comes from knowing you helped create something beautiful we all can enjoy, VanCleave said. The Helena Beautification Board is an appointed board of the Helena City Council. The board believes that people and places are profoundly connected and thriving communities are rooted in individual responsibility and action. They host a variety of opportunities for the community to come together and serve each year. Events are

posted on the Helena Beautiful Facebook page and announced via Twitter at @TweetHomeHelena.

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OUR VISION is to help yours

Meet Our Team… Helena’s own Dr. Tim Ansley is the owner of Inverness Eye Care and President of Alabama Eye Partners. In the community, Dr. Ansley has provided vision screenings for local elementary schools and participated in health fairs, and is the team optometric physician for Samford University Athletics. Dr. Ansley and his wife, Kendall, have a precious daughter, Blake (6), twin boys, Jackson and Baker (4), and son Graham (2). The Ansleys are members of Church of the Highlands Riverchase and call the Hillsboro community in Helena home. Dr. Christi Hill is a native of South Carolina and received her Doctorate of Optometry in 1996. In the 22 years following her doctorate, she has enjoyed private practice seeing both pediatric and adult patients concentrating on ocular disease as well as primary eye care and contact lens ﬁttings. Dr Hill and her husband, Jeff (also an Optometrist), have three sons: Jonathan (19), Andrew (16), and Ryan (14) as well as a sweet, white lab named Bailey. Her boys are active in multiple sports and love their church youth group. The Hills are active members of Briarwood Presbyterian Church and have lived in the Meadowbrook area for 16 yrs. Dr. Sarah Gordon founded Inverness Eye Care in 1986. In the community, Dr. Gordon has provided vision screenings for local elementary schools for 20 years and participated in health fairs. In addition, she has been active with fundraising events to sponsor scholarships at local schools. Dr. Gordon is married to Dr. Ronald Dichiara, an endodontist in Hoover. Dr. Gordon is a member of the Church at Brookhills and is an avid Alabama Football and UAB Basketball fan.

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2019 Easter Egg Hunt featured fun for all!

It was a cold, damp Saturday morning April 20, and the day before Easter, when the City of Helena’s Easter Egg Hunt took center stage in Old Town’s Amphitheater Park. Kids ages infant to 12 assembled at the gates, eager to get through and fill their baskets with some of the thousands of snack filled plastic eggs which members of Christian Life Church, the event’s main sponor, had laid out all over the main seating area in front of the Davidson Stage. This year’s event had open times for the youngest ones in an area all to themselves, meaning they could gather eggs from start to finish! The eggs covered the ground in front of the Davidson Stage, but they were no match for these egg hunters who filled their baskets as fast as their fingers could retrieve the eggs from the ground. Christian Life Church also filled the area at the front of the park with inflatables, games and face painting stations, insuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy. Thanks go out to Christian Life Church, its pastor, Helena resident Jeremy Saylor, the Helena Explorers, the Helena Belles and all the many volunteers who came together to make this one of the best Easter Egg Hunts ever!

Easter Happy

SOFTBALL TEAM WINS 4TH SOUTHERN CONFERENCE TITLE IN A ROW!

SOFTBALL

HELENA MIDDLE SCHOOL

Coach Sanders Wins 400th game and his On Saturday, March 2nd, with a win over Chelsea, the team his Huskies would eventually go on to beat in the Southern Conference Championship, the middle school girls gave Coach Mark Sanders his 400th career victory (His career record is 422-140 , a 75 percent win rate during his 18 years of coaching softball). Coach Sanders said that he holds a voluntary devotion once a week with his girls, and this year, they used a book called Beyond Talent: Become Someone Whom Gets Extraordinary Results, by Dr. John Maxwell. I asked Coach Sanders what the secret was to his success on the softball field, and he said, I just told you! But he laid it out for me just the same. His formula for building champions can be viewed in the box on the next page. “Our team this year had 24 players who bought into our philosophy—every game. These girls went out and had more fun than the other team,” said Mark Sanders after his team won him his 422nd game over the past

18 years and another Southern Conference Title. “We ask our girls to do two things every year: 1. Love your teammates unconditionally and 2. Have more fun than the other team. “If somebody beats us, let’s make sure they were actually better than us on that day. We don’t want to let one slip away because the other team wanted it more than we did. There is no shame in getting beat as long as you are having more fun and desiring the victory more than your opponent.” “We had 24 girls this year who did just that, and the result is what we wanted. We won every game; our girls never lost faith, even when, on occasion, we’d get behind. The girls never stopped believing in each other and offered each other encouragement whenever their teammates looked like they needed it. Even in the games in which we were behind in the last inning, these girls found a way to dig a little deeper and pull out the wins, 32 of them this year,” said Coach Sanders. In case you’re keeping count, Coach Sanders HMS teams are currently on a 74 game win streak and have won 106 out of 107 games since the start of the 2016 season. “That doesn’t even sound possible when I see it in print,” he said. “I remember our inaugural year in 2009, we played Oak Mountain, who was on a 28-game win streak. We were heavy underdogs, but we beat them. I told our girls that they should be proud, because I doubted that any school would run up that many wins in a row again,” he smiled. “Teams I

2019 Helena MIddle School Huskies—Southern Conference Champions

First row, l-r: Emma Olive, Victoria Mauterer, Allie Graydon, Katie Sparks, Grace Wilkins, Soriano Hicks, Reese McLellan, Amelia Powell, Charley Wagar. Back row, l-r: Coach Bruce Howland, Presley Lively, Cammi Pugh, Haylie Deifenderfer, Molly Rollan, Madison Martin, Harley Morrison, Riley Hollabaugh, Hannah Steele, Abbie-Lane Traywick, Rylee Tuech, Mary Beth Allen, Savannah Anderson, Abby Hibbs, Ava Middlebrooks, Gracey Whipple, Coach Ashley Blankenship Late Spring 2019 / www. www.CityOfHelena.org www.CityOfHelena CityOfHelena.org CityOfHelena

had been around had never gone undefeated before, and I had been around some great teams. It’s amazing how times can change attitudes and beliefs.” “I told our girls at the beginning of this season to not plan on going undefeated,” said the coach. “I wanted the girls to focus on their attitudes. I told them to go out and try to win each inning. At the end, if we win more innings than we lose, we’re probably going to win the game.” “I have a supernatural love for Helena. So my philosophy is really just to do my best where God has planted me. I believe the Lord put me here, and this is where I am happy to be involved in mentoring the girls who play on my teams and the students who are in my classes here at Helena Middle School. Hats off to the HMS Huskies Softball team, its assistants and its Championship Head Coach, Mark Sanders.

Coach Sanders KEYS to building a CHAMPIONSHIP program: S Supernatural Blessings E Environment R Relationships V Victory is Greater than Wins A Attitude N Never Ending Unconditional Love T Talent & Teamwork S Supernatural Blessings- God is not choosing sides in softball games. But God can bless and multiply our efforts, talents, time together, belief in each other, and belief in ourselves when we honor Him. It is those blessings that can help you win that one-run game or the game you should have lost. E Environment- Creating the right type of environment puts the players in the best emotional/ mental state to compete and succeed—at any level. An overlooked aspect of coaching is creating the right type of environment for the athletes. R Relationships with parents- Work hard at building healthy relationships with parents. Embrace the idea of parents being part of our TEAM. The relationships you build with the parents are essential to TEAM unity. The path to a parent’s heart is through their child. If you love/respect/honor each player (as if they were your player), those parents will not only go the extra mile…they will run through and dismantle a brick wall. That brick wall represents separation. V Victory is Greater than Wins- Teach them about living a victorious life through the game. These players will not play softball their entire life. For most of them, softball seasons will only represent a short season of their lives. They must be conditioned for and trained for Greatness and Victory! Now is the time to develop their character and work ethic. Teach them to do MORE than expected—even when no one is watching. A Attitude- Attitudes have a powerful inﬂuence on behavior. Positive attitudes produce more favorable results while negative attitudes only serve to generate failure. All the Attitudes that my team has start with me. Every negative attitude that we have is on me and is my responsibility. N Never Ending Unconditional Love- When you truly love kids unconditionally (NO MATTER WHAT)…and when they love each other unconditionally, it empowers them to play Beyond their Talent. A Team playing Beyond Their Talent and Beyond Themselves gives them opportunities to win Championships. T Talent & Teamwork- It takes an incredible amount of Talent to win games…but MORE Teamwork is required to win championships. The TEAM goals are more important than INDIVIDUAL roles. One is too small of a number to achieve greatness. — John Maxwell

“In my mind, this says it all.” –Coach Sanders Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. …A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Winter 2019

Husky Day at BBVA Compass Field Amzey Register 2018-2019 Alabama Junior Rodeo Association Princess After a day long queen and princess competition last May at the AJRA (Alabama Junior Rodeo Association) state finals, Amzey Register was crowned princess for the 2018-2019 rodeo season. The contest had both modeling and speech portions. There was an interview, and manners as well as horsemanship patterns were observed. In the AJRA there are two competitive divisions—kindergarten5th grade and 6th-8th grade. The princess is a member from the K-5 division, and the queen is a member from the 6th-8th grade division. As AJRA princess, Amzey’s job is to carry the American Flag during the National Anthem and the prayer at the beginning of every rodeo. She also leads her division into and around the arena during the rodeo grand entry. She and the queen are responsible for coming up with themes for most rodeos, as well as fun events for the other members to do on Saturdays after a long day of competing. Amzey also promotes the rodeo and association while trying to increase its membership. There is always more room for new cowgirls and cowboys! Amzey has been riding horses since she was 4-years-old. Amzey is now 10 and a 4th grader at Helena Intermediate School. She has been competing in the AJRA for four years. She currently competes in 3 events: barrel racing, pole bending and her favorite event, goat tying. Barrels and Poles are pretty straight forward speed events. Goat tying consists of the rider jumping off of a moving horse, running to the goat, flanking it and tying 3 of its legs together as fast as possible. Amzey has three horses. Freckles is a miniature horse that is kept in the backyard, and her quarter horses, Anna and Corona, live at a family farm where she trains them throughout the week. Throughout her time with AJRA, Amzey has won multiple belt buckles and many other awards. AJRA state finals are approaching this month and Amzey is excited for a shot at another buckle. Amzey’s mom said the family would like to give a special thanks to Daniel Barron and Helena Hardware for always having the feed and supplies in stock to keep Amzey’s horses happy and healthy and for being an annual sponsor of the AJRA throughout the years.

FUN FACTS: 16 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

Young Helena Husky Soccer players pose with Birmingham Legion Helena kids had a blast at BBVA Compass Field, home to the newly established Birmingham Legion for its inaugural season, in March. Val Lopez shared a photo of the Helena kids standing with Birmingham Legion’s starting 11 prior to the game. His son, Alen Lopez, is standing with Birmingham Legion Captain and midfielder, Mikey Lopez, in the far left of the picture. The young Helena athletes in the pictures are as follows left to right: Alen Lopez - Husky Day Captain, Kade Garcia, Issac Chavez, Mason Sasser, Calvin Bremer, Gabe Taylor, Braden Vincent, Holly Mallory, Mallory Puckett, Alana Raudenbush and Ashlyn Northrop. There were 22 total Helena Husky “Anthem Buddies” in addition to the 11 shown in the picture above. There were also six Helena Husky “ball kids” and several Helena Husky “High Five” kids in attendance. The Birmingham Legion is a professional soccer club based in Birmingham, Alabama. They compete in the USL Championship, the second division of American soccer. The team was established in August 2017 and began their first professional season this year. Go Huskies & Hammer Down! Announcing the opening of

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Dude looks like a lady… Men dress up for Miracle League

Many came out to be thoroughly entertained during the Miracle League of Helena’s 3rd Annual “Dude Looks Like a Lady” Womanless Beauty Pageant and Silent Auction held in April and staged by organizer Mary Chambliss and her dedicated crew of volunteers. Names have been changed to protect the innocent (and not so innocent), but THEY know who they are. Thanks to all these gentlemen who put themselves in skirts for a very worthy cause! The judges were Mayor Mark Hall, City Councillor Alice Lobell, Husky Football Coach Richie Busby, and former Mrs Alabama contestant Stacey Tollison had a tough job, but they excelled at judging these fine looking “ladies.” Ms/Mr Helena 2019 was awarded to “Ms. Weeds” )(AKA Best Beard) #11; Ms. Congeniality (Crowd Favorite) went to #18; Ms. Best Butt in Town and Ms. Social Butterfly went to #10; Ms. Hottest Hooters went to #3; and Ms. Hot Wheels went to #12. A huge thank you to Emcee Paul Curcio, partner of Golden Rule Helena and owner of Golden Rule Huntley Parkway, and music provider Sounds Around Town. A good time was enjoyed by all in attendance, and a nice windfall of needed funds went to Helena’s Miracle League. For more information on Helena’s Miracle League, visit them online at HelenaMiracleLeague.com.

Helena Fire Explorers earn trophies

At the 4th annual Helena Fire Explorers competition held at Helena Intermediate in March, teams from Helena, Centerpoint, Birmingham, Leeds and Henry County, Georgia participated. Congratulations to the Helena Fire Explorers on awards they

won. They placed in the following events: Communications—1st place Hose Relay—2nd place Last Resort—2nd Place Team Quick Dress—3rd place Bunker Gear Relay—3rd place Great job by all involved!

18 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

6th Grade Huskies Basketball Team runnersup in their division The 6th Grade Helena Huskies Basketball Team battled hard to win the runnersup slot in their division of the Jefferson Shelby County Youth Basketball League. The coach, Jerome Dangerfield, reports that the team had an awesome season. Pictured above, team members include: Back row, l-r, John Englezos, Jude Brown, Kelvin Pinkard, Jeremy Spratling, Brandon Sanford and Coach Jerome Dangerfield. Front row, L-R, Andrew Dobbins, Javaris Dangerfield, Jordan Owen, Owen Rhodes, Jaxon Hopper, Jacob Brister and Tyler Reed. Logan Colburn was not present for the picture.

Helena Elementary PTO holds its largest fundraiser of the year in April…

If smiles are any indication, the pictures on this page will give you some idea of how much Helena kids like the Spring Fling. It’s the Helena Elementary PTO’s annual festival and its biggest fund raiser of the year. Though there were several events in the Birmingham area competing for attention this year, Helena residents have become accustomed to the Spring Fling and look forward to it each year. Take a minute to look at the smiles on this page the next time you need to smile yourself—it’s good medicine!

Pick your homesite in Helena’s

Donovan Builders, LLC, is an established, high quality homebuilder. You expect more in a Donovan home, and you get it. 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. Large, private wooded lots are trademarks of Donovan’s newest homesites AVAILABLE NOW in Creek Water. Creekview Estates only has three estate lots left, and all three of the renderings at left are under construction there—hurry in and select your colors! Surrounded by hills and trees, residents have the best of both worlds—only a few minutes from I-459 at the CR-52 interchange and about the same to all the shopping and dining opportunities found in Helena and along U.S. Hwy 31— and you have the perfect place in North Shelby County to call home. We’re available for you seven days a week, so call today and let our team of Realtors® (over 50 years combined experience) assist you in finding the perfect place to call home. Donovan Homes has a full-time decorator to expertly assist you with all your selections and will work hard to make your dream home a reality today!

• Just minutes to the heart of Helena! • Top quality Donovan-built homes! • Large wooded lots, 1/2 - 1 acre • Acreage available in Creekview Estates • Park in neighborhood with outdoor fireplace, walking trails, and creek access

Just minutes to I-459 at CR 52 and the heart of Helena! Donovan Builders now has exceptional, private, secluded lots to build your dream house in Helena’s Creek Water & Creekview Estates.

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A few great lots still available in Pelham’s Grey Oaks, too!

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First Choice Annette Durrett 205-243-9970 annettedurrett@gmail.com

We Build Dreams! From Helena, take CR 52W towards the Cahaba River. Turn left at Hwy 13 across from Riverside Baptist. Turn right on Hwy 93 after about 3 miles, Creek Water on left, Creek Water Estates on right.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS REGULAR WEEKLY/BIWEEKLY EVENTS

june

3rd - HHS Coach Naron’s Soccer Camp (5K-6th Grd) June 3-7, Practice Field, 8:00am-12:00pm CNHuskySoccerCamp.com 4th - Helena Business Association Meeting, 8:00 am, for meeting site visit hbahelena.com or their Facebook page 10th - HHS Volleyball Camp (5K-6th Grd) June 10-13, HHS Gym, 9:00am-12:00pm (Please register by May 31st) - Summer Reading Kickoff–Music with Mark Seymour, Helena Municipal Building, 10:30am & 2:30pm - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 11th - Helena Utility Board meeting, Community Services Bldg, 5:00pm 12th - Teen Summer Reading Kickoff w/ Book Bingo, JBH Library, 2:30pm 15th - Respite Care-special needs 0-21, free but must reserve, Alabaster Methodist’s Restore Bldg, 5:00-9:00pm, aaronsstaﬀrespite.org 16th - Father’s Day 18th - HHS Cheerleading Camp (5K-6th Grd) June 18-20, HHS Cafeteria, 9:00am-12:00pm (Register by June 3rd to guarantee T-shirt) 19th - Summer Reading–Animal Tales, Helena Municipal Building, 2:30pm 20th - Helena Planning & Zoning, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 24th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm 26th - Summer Reading–McWane Science Center Program, Helena Municipal Building, 10:30am & 2:30pm

july

9th 10th 11th 15th 16th 17th 18th 20th 22nd 23rd 25th 29th -

Helena Utility Board meeting, Community Services Bldg, 5:00pm Summer Reading–Police Dept., Helena Municipal Building, 2:30pm Helena High Registration, 8:00am-12:00pm & 2:00-6:00pm Helena Musical Theatre Camp (K-5th Grd) July 15-19, HHS Auditorium, 8:00-11:00am (Please register by June 23rd) Helena Elementary Registration, 8:00am-12:00pm Helena Intermediate Proof of Residence Checks, 7:00-11:00am Helena Elementary Registration, 8:00am-12:00pm Summer Reading Closeout Party w/ Magician Russell Davis, Helena Municipal Building, 2:30pm Helena Middle Registration, 7:00-11:00am & 1:00-6:00pm Helena High Makeup Registration, 7:30-10:30am Helena Elementary Registration, 2:00-6:00pm Teen Summer Reading Closeout Pizza Party, JBH Library, 2:30pm Helena Planning & Zoning, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm Respite Care-special needs 0-21, free but must reserve, Alabaster Methodist’s Restore Bldg, 5:00-9:00pm, aaronsstaﬀrespite.org Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm Helena Intermediate Registration, 7:00-11:00am & 2:00-6:00pm Helena Middle Regisration, 8:00-11:00am Adult Summer Reading Closeout, Jane B Holmes Library, 6:00pm Helena Intermediate Makeup Registration, 8:00-11:00am

Magic City Smooth Schedule is subject to change. See City website, CityOfHelena.org for latest news.

Sunday, July 7 6-9 pm

2nd - Helena Business Association Meeting, 8:00 am, for meeting site visit hbahelena.com or their Facebook page 3rd - Summer Reading–Fire Dept., Helena Municipal Building, 2:30pm - Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks, Old Town, Fun starts at 5:30pm 4th - Independence Day Municipal Offices & Library Closed NO garbage collection: Santek will run one day behind rest of week 7th - Jazz in the Park, Old Town Amphitheater Park, TBA 8th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6:00pm TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2019

FILE P HOTOS FROM P RE V IOUS E V E NTS

MONDAYS Police Explorers, Explorer Training Facility, 4:00-7:00PM Fire Explorers, Station 2, 5:00PM TUESDAYS Kiwanis Club of Helena, Helena Senior Citizens Bldg, each 2nd, 3rd & 4th Tuesday, 7:00AM, For more info, visit kiwanisclubofhelena.com Storytime at Jane B. Holmes Library, 11:00AM Helena Lions Club meets the 2nd & 4th Thursday, Helena Senior Citizens Bldg, 7:00PM, Visit Helena Lions Club Facebook page for more info THURSDAYS Storytime at Jane B. Holmes Library, 11:00AM SATURDAYS Helena Market Days, Amphitheater Park, 8:00AM-12:00PM Chef Demos 9:00AM (June 1-August 3) June 1 - Opening Day of Helena Market Days 10th Year

Miracle League…Making MIRACLES Happen! A miracle happened at Opening Night of the Helena Miracle League’s inaugural season at Little Joe, the small field at Joe Tucker Park. Mary Chambliss, founder of Helena Miracle League, says she was worried that not many would show up, being as how the event, originally scheduled for the Friday before, had been rained out after the deluge from previous days made the field impossible to play on. The organizers had even stuffed 600 plastic eggs for a big Egg Hunt at the conclusion. “It might have been a week after Easter,” said Mary, “but the little ones who participated in the innaugural Miracle League game had the time of their lives afterward collecting their share of the goody-filled plastic eggs.”

Mary called the standing room only crowd and TV cameras and reporters present a real miracle. “ It made my heart proud,” said Mary. “It just shows how much demand there is to have a “league of our own” for special needs athletes, young and old alike. 22 Winter 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

One thing is for certain, everyone was young at heart on this night. And the happy faces on the players as they played a real game under the lights in front of a big crowd made it all worth the price of admission. Wait a minute, admission was free! The league did have Miracle League caps and t-shirts for sale, and the Golden Rule food truck was there as well as the Kona Ice truck to the delight of all in attendance. Boy Scout Troop 219, founded this past February in Helena and including both boys and girls, performed a flag ceremony for the National Anthem, and Mayor Mark Hall threw out the first pitch after Mary’s son, Preston, recent graduate of the University of Montevallo’s Falcon Flighr program (which helps young adults with speical needs transition to normal adult life), cut the ribbon to officially start the Miracle League’s 2019 slate of games. Lots more fun coming up, but meantime, be sure you make it out to Joe Tucker Park to support all these special athletes. You’ll recognize them—they’re the ones with the biggest smiles on their faces!

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Library Director Daniel Dearing with Senator Cam Ward at the Buck Creek Festival

observance y 25-27 in a M s: te a d ing y endence Da ed the follow will be clos observance of Indep ry ra ib L e in Th 4 l Day July of Memoria

Greetings from the Library!

The spring is flying by, and everyone knows what that means: It’s time for the annual Library Summer Reading Program!

This year’s Summer Reading Program theme is “A Universe of Stories,” which was chosen by library professionals to help inspire children of all ages to dream big, believe in themselves, and create their own story. The Library wants adults and teens to participate, too! The library staff and volunteers have worked very hard to provide a FUN summer this year! NOW is the time to stop by the library to make sure your card is up to date and that you are ready to read for the upcoming season! Speaking of stopping by, the Library Book Sale is Thursday, May 16 through Saturday, May 18. Find a great book and support the library! Great News! The library also has a new DVD policy: Many older DVD titles are now available for seven days. Newer movies still check out for three days to keep them moving, but there are many favorites available for seven days! Late fees are still $2 per day. Please stop by soon to see what is available. The library has a great DVD collection! Please remember the library as you plan your day. It is important to READ! The library is also a neat community resource, and a fun, FREE place to visit.

NEW BOOKS:

Two Weeks - Karen Kingsbury The Tinderbox - Beverly Lewis Miss Julia Takes the Wheel - Ann B. Ross Miracle at St. Andrews - James Patterson Someone Knows - Lisa Scottoline

The 13-Minute Murder - James Patterson The 18th Abduction - James Patterson Cemetery Road - Greg Iles Celtic Empire - Clive Cussler The Chef - James Patterson Never Tell - Lisa Gardner An Anonymous Girl - Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen Connections in Death - J.D. Robb The Reckoning - John Grisham Fire and Blood - George R.R. Martin Circe - Madeline Miller The Wedding Guest - Jonathan Kellerman

NEW DVDS:

Bumblebee with Hailee Steinfeld & Jon Cena Welcome to Marwen with Steve Carell Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase with Sophia Lillis The Mule with Clint Eastwood Vice with Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Steve Carell & Sam Rockwell A Dog’s Way Home with Ashley Judd & Jonah Hauer-King Holmes & Watson - Will Ferrell & John C. Reilly Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse with Jake Johnson & Hailee Steinfeld Mary Poppins Returns with Emily Blunt Big Kill with Christoph Sanders, Jason Patric, Michael Pare, Lou Diamond Phillips & Danny Trejo A Star is Born with Bradley Cooper & Lady Gaga BackTrace with Ryan Guzman, Sylvester Stallone & Matthew Modine Overlord with Jovan Adepo & Wyatt Russell

JANE B. HOLMES PUBLIC LIBRARY • 230 Tucker Road, Helena AL 35080

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Reading Program

“A Universe fo Stories”

Where people of all ages can sign up and collect prizes. June 3 June 10 June 12 June 19 June 26 June 27 July 3 July 10 July 15 July 17 July 18 July 25

Registration begins (and will continue until July 15) Summer Reading Kickoff: Music with Mark Seymour, City Hall, 10:30am & 2:30pm Teen Summer Reading Kickoff: Book Bingo, 2:30pm Creatures of the Galaxy presented by Animal Tales, City Hall, 2:30pm The Final Frontier presented by McWane Science Center, City Hall, 10:30am & 2:30pm Origami Helena Fire Department Program, City Hall, 2:30pm Helena Police Department Program, City Hall, 2:30pm Last Day to Record Summer Reading Books Summer Reading Closeout with Magician Russell Davis, City Hall, 2:30pm Teen Summer Reading Closeout Pizza Party, Library, 2:30pm Adult Summer Reading Closeout Party, Library, 6:00pm

The library had lots of FUN during Dr. Seuss Read across America Week! Pictured are library staff members Lisa Han and Julie Lawson.

Robin Hood with Taron Egerton, Jamie Foxx & Jamie Dornan Can You Ever Forgive Me? with Melissa McCarthy

Other Library Events/Programs at Jane B. Holmes Library:

Storytime with Ms. Jennie: Every Tuesday & Thursday @ 11:00am Game Changers*: Every Friday June 14 thru July 12, 2:00-4:00pm *Games provided or bring your own Lego Fun**: Come build Lego’s with us. June 17 @ 5:45pm & July 15 @ 2:30pm **Legos provided Cookies & Coloring***: June 24 @ 2:30pm, July 11 @ 5:45pm & July 24 @ 2:30pm ***Cookies & coloring supplies provided

NOW is the time ...

Stop by the library to make sure your card is up to date and that you are ready to read for the upcoming season!

Special Thanks to Primrose School of Helena for a great book drive! Students, faculty, and families from the school provided some great books!

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

Local author Robin Kirby Gatto‘s latest book is a must read this summer! The first book of The Watchman series, Rev 22:2, will illuminate scriptures for those that are hungry and thirsty for the righteousness of the call, as God’s watchman. This series is the Navy Seals of equipping in the Word, where you will excavate in the deep places of scripture, to understand the making of The Watchman.

Buy your copy today at Amazon.com! Sauerkraut is so full of vitamins and probiotics that ancient sailors would eat it on long voyages to keep healthy. Raw, fermented foods are brimming with healthpromoting probiotics and have been staples of the human diet for thousands of years. One such ancient food is sauerkraut, produced simply by covering cabbage with water and letting it sit for several weeks. Naturally occurring bacteria on the surface of the cabbage leaves thrive in this environment, chemically changing the cabbage and increasing its B vitamin content. So if you’re going to eat a hot dog, be sure to load it down with sauerkraut!

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26 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

Cahaba River Park, a new trails and wilderness project, holds ribbon cutting just outside Helena We got to take an early look at a new project that Shelby County Development Services recently completed in conjunction with the State’s Forever Wild Trust just outside Helena on River Road. Comprised of over 1527 acres, Cahaba River Park features 10 miles of single track mountain bike, hiking, and running trails

made possible through an ADECA grant. Two trailhead parking lots have been built along with a 24' x 50' public pavilion with two restrooms. A caretaker’s home is currently occupied by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office to keep an eye on things. A second pavilion with restrooms is planned, and canoe

launches with primitive camping are future considerations. Cahaba River Park is located at the end of River Road, which turns off Hwy 13 just outside Helena. It promises to provide world class recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts from around the area.

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Cahaba River Park contains 1339 acres on the north side of the river and 188 acres on the south side. Left, Mayor Hall, State Sen. Cam Ward, Commissioner Elwyn Bearden and others were present along with other state and local dignitaries to hear from those who had a hand in the park’s development speak before the ribbon cutting. Also present were members of local area mountain bike clubs, like the ones seen here who are members of the Shelby County Composite MTB Team, who use the Helena Husky logo as their team mascot. TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2019

them while their loved ones are away. Molly would like the support of her community through prayer as she embarks on her mission. In addition to prayer, she also needs financial support. She has already raised $11,000 of the $16,000 needed to go on the trip and is working towards the last $5000. The cost of the trip covers transportation, food, housing and insurance. Molly says it is her

desire to be the hands and feet of Jesus to every person she encounters. She is excited for this opportunity to share the love of Christ. To financially support Molly, go to her blog at https://mollymiller. theworldrace.org. She will be posting weekly throughout her mission trip. For more information on Adventures In Missions or The World Race: Gap Year, go to https://www.adventures.org.

Molly Miller—Lady on a mission One night, she had a vivid dream about playing with children in a foreign land.

Last year Molly Miller was a junior at Helena High School. Like most people her age, she wasn’t sure which direction she wanted to take after high school. She started praying about it. One night, she had a vivid dream about playing with children in a foreign land. She couldn’t get that dream out of her head and told a co-worker about it. The co-worker asked her if she had heard of The World Race. Molly did some research and found the group, Adventures In Missions, an organization specializing in Christian short-term mission trips. The opportunity that caught her eye was, The World Race: Gap Year, designed for young people ages 18-21. The World Race: Gap Year is a ninemonth mission trip to three different countries—Thailand, India and Costa Rica. The “missionaries” work with local ministers in the communities to spread the Word of God, work with orphanages, plant churches, minister to women and children trapped in sex trafficking and build homes. This opportunity sounded very interesting to Molly but she didn’t think it was something she could do. She had already looked at colleges, and at one point, thought that was the path she was supposed to take. She went on with her daily life but continued to

pray about the mission trip. One day she opened her computer and a YouTube video about The World Race popped up. She thought there must be something to this idea and talked to her mom, Amanda, about it. After more research and much prayer, Molly felt that God had called her into missions. Molly says that she has always had a heart for missions. She has gone on churchwide mission trips with First Baptist Church of Pelham since she was in sixth grade. In the spring of 2018, she went to New York City with her youth group to minister to the homeless community there. She started to notice just how much people need God and how she could actually make a difference through ministry. Molly says that she has joined 50 other people from across the United States committed to making a difference by serving in The World Race: Gap Year during her own gap year. Molly is the only person from Alabama in the group. She and her family will head to Atlanta this September to participate in a two-day Family Launch Conference prior to leaving on the trip. There she will meet up with her group and their families. The Family Launch will help to connect the families and create a support network for

28 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

Alaynna Surcouf Wins Prestigious Zaxby’s Enriching Lives Award Alaynna Surcouf was recently awarded Zaxby’s Franchising LLC’s Enriching Lives Award for her dedication to Zaxby’s core values. She was selected from a field of 16,000 franchise employees, and this is her very first job. Alaynna has been an employee of the Zaxby’s Helena location for two years. Alaynna, a member of Helena High School’s Class of 2019, is headed to the University of South Alabama this fall, where she was awarded the Mitchell Business Scholarship. The Mitchell Scholars Program allows elite business students to develop to their full potential. Through faculty mentorship and a four-year $50,000 scholarship that includes a laptop computer, scholars will pursue challenging programs while developing stewardship and civic responsibility. Alaynna is the daughter of Mark and Trinity Surcouf, and she has a younger brother, Aaron, a rising sophomore at Helena High School. The family attends Hunter Street Baptist Church. Congratulations, Alaynna on your Zaxby’s award and the outstanding college scholarship you earned!

Hats off to the Helena Lion’s Club!

First year teacher wins grant! Lindsey Smith is a first year Special Education teacher at HIS. Ms. Smith received an $850 grant last month from the Shelby County Education Foundation for her “Math Masters” program. Congratulations to Lindsey, who embodies the school’s motto: #BeTheDiﬀerence. Hats off to the Special Education teachers in all our Helena schools—you are part of what makes Helena such a special place to call home!

Helena Lion’s Club President, Rodney Clarke, presents a check for $500 to the Helena Teen Council at a recent council meeting. He also presented a check for $450 to the group to send three students to a leadership conference in Troy, Alabama. Helena Lion’s Club has one meeting each month on the

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fourth Thursday, and it is a lunch meeting. The Helena Lion’s Club was chartered December 2, 2014. This makes the third year that the Lion’s Club has sponsored the Helena Teen Council. For information on joining the Helena Lion’s Club and helping in the valuable work they do, contact Mr. Clarke by email at: rcgeagle44@gmail.com.

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Husky Wrestling and Indoor Track Stars Recognized at March Council meeting

Several Wrestling and Indoor Track athletes were recognized at a March meeting of the Helena City Council for their accomplishments after the Winter Indoor Track and Wrestling State Championships. 6A State Champion Wrestler at the 126 lbs weight class, Will Miller, stands at the right hand of Mayor Mark Hall and Track standout Kirsen Gardner (3rd in 6A Shot Put) is to his left. Next to Kirsen on the front row is wrestler Michael Moran (2nd in 6A 113 lb class). On the back row are indoor track stars Allison Tanner (6A State Champion high jumper), Jonah Hyde (6A State Champion high jumper) and TJ Funches (3rd in 6A High Jump) and Nathan Dunaway (2nd in the state at the State Wrestling Championships in the 6A 220 lbs weight class. Congratulations to all these athletes for their accomplishments!

Peter and The Starcatcher Presented by Helena High School On March 7-10, the Helena High School theater department presented its production of Peter and The Starcatcher, the prequel to the classic tale, Peter Pan. This story explained Peter’s past and how his world was created along with the lovable characters we all know. This student led production required the commitment of over 60 students who did everything from building the set pieces and props to makeup and costumes. They started work in November and put in the time to pull off this fun, family-friendly show filled with heartfelt, comedic, and action packed moments. The theater department performs two plays during the school year, one in the fall and the other in the spring. We invite you to come to the 2019 fall prduction and support our kids as they continue to pursue their passion for theater. They would like to thank their families, friends and the Helena community for your continued support. Watch for notifications of our performances next school year—we hope to see you there! 30 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

On the subject of fast cooking Microwave cooking was discovered accidentally when a chocolate bar melted in someone’s pocket. Percy LeBaron Spencer of the Raytheon Company was walking past a radar tube when he noticed that the chocolate bar in his pocket had melted. He then tested popcorn in front of the tube, and it quickly popped all over the room. He is recognized as the inventor of the microwave oven. The earliest microwave oven available for sale, the Radarange, cost $50,000 in today’s money, and was released in 1947.

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Refried beans are only fried once. The reason for this misconception is a translation error. The originals are frijoles refritos which actually means “well fried beans”—not refried.

Jack Childers is the son of Scott and Kristie Childers. He is shown here wirh his dad in front of the leader board.

Move over, Tiger, Jack is coming! Jack Childers is 11 years old and a 6th grader at Helena Middle School. Last August, he was awarded the Birmingham Golf Association’s Player of the Year, winning 16 out of 18 tournaments. He has won several Championships, including the Magic City Tour Championship and the Birmingham Golf Association Championship. One of his favorites was winning a Father/Son Tournament last year with his dad, Scott Childers. They posted a record low round of 47 (-7) on the Robert Trent Jones Oxmoor Valley Par 3 Course. Jack is really looking forward to playing on the HMS golf team next year! Jack played with the adults in the Helena Miracle League Charity Golf Tournament last October. He played baseball for several years before giving it up for golf and is excited about helping raise money for Helena’s Miracle League baseball field. Most recently, Jack hit a hole-in-one while playing the RTJ Oxmoor Valley, Par 3 course, on hole #5. I’m telling you, watch out for this kid on the links!

HELENA UMC: AN EXCITING MISSION DAY! Helena United Methodist Church held an exciting and productive Mission Day on a Saturday in February, where volunteers packed over 40,000 meals for the needy in just four hours! Helena UMC partnered with the Rise Against Hunger organization, which brought in all the meal supplies (paid for by the church) and more than 120 church volunteers assisted with packing the meals — from measuring the fortified rice-soy meal into bags to sealing the bags to boxing up all the meals. Rise Against Hunger

ships meals to over 70 countries around the world as well as throughout the United States. The Rise Against Hunger organization runs well-organized events — and even makes it fun for volunteers to participate, with lively music playing and a gong every time a group hits another milestone in the number of meals packed. Rise Against Hunger is a hands-on hunger relief program that seeks to enable families and communities to become self-sufficient and learn sustainable skills. It also provides crisis assistance in

32 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

response to natural disasters and political crisis. The Mission Day was a part of Helena United Methodist’s five-day 2019 Global Impact Celebration (GIC) Week, where missionaries from local, national and worldwide organizations provided displays about their mission efforts, plus attended a Kickoff, several dinners and a GIC Celebration during the special mission week. GIC Week

is a part of Helena UMC’s ongoing Global Outreach mission efforts, which assist organizations here in this area and around the world with much-needed funds, volunteers and more. For more details about Helena United Methodist Church, check out their church app (search Helena UMC for the free app from Apple App Store or Google Play Store) or the church website at: www.helenaumc.org.

Reilly says she plans to study business and marketing at the University of Alabama this fall. Looking at these modeling shots, this writer wouldn’t be surprised if modeling doesn’t enter the equation at some point.

MEET RISING UA FRESHMAN, REILLY MONTGOMERY A case study in achieving one’s goals despite serious setbacks! At nine-years-of-age, Reilly Montgomery’s parents were told that she had a Wilms tumor, a rare type of childhood cancer that starts in the kidneys. The doctors had to remove Reilly’s affected kidney, and she spent a week recovering in the hospital due to the operation’s invasiveness. Just two weeks after surgery, she attended Helena Youth Cheer Camp. She then performed at Show Off Night for family and friends the day after having another operation to place a port, which was also the first day of her chemotherapy. Back then, she would go to tumbling class, and since she felt so comfortable there, she also worked on some physical therapy to combat some of the side effects the chemo was having on her body. After losing 22 pounds, the doctors warned her family that if Reilly lost another pound, she would have to have a feeding tube placed. Luckily, they didn’t have to do that. Even though Reilly had to undergo

both chemotherapy and high-dose radiation, she was determined that even cancer could not stop her from doing what she loved—cheerleading. She looked to cheer as a stress reliever from the battle she was fighting with cancer. Cheer was her focus everyday, even when she was too weak to fully participate with her team. When she felt stressed, she went to tumbling class. Reilly says her love for cheer started while she was cheering at Helena’s city parks and the Alabama Cheerleading Center. As she got older, she went on to cheer for the Huskies at Helena Middle School and Helena High School. In her junior year of high school, Reilly joined ACE Cheer Company. Reilly said, “My ACE team and coach became like family to me.” The hard work and dedication of that team is evident in the team’s success. They won two of the most prestigious cheerleading championships in the

country, the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) National Competition at Disney World and JAMfest Cheer Super Nationals in Indiana. It’s really no surprise that Reilly was nominated to try out to become a UCA All-American, and needless to say, she made the squad! She is now eligible to attend special events such as a New Year’s Day Parade in either London or Rome. Reilly attributes her success to hard work and the support of her family and friends. She says her family has always helped her set goals and then achieve them. Reilly claims her mom, Amy, is her best friend, even though her Mom has lovingly told her that she can’t always be her best friend AND her mom. The late Carson Sumpter, a young and popular Pelham teen, was diagnosed with cancer two weeks after Reilly’s diagnosis. Carson inspired Reilly by encouraging her to do what she loved even when times

were tough. Reilly says cancer taught her to work harder for what she wants and to be happy with where she is now. The future looks bright for Reilly. She is nine years in remission and still goes in for yearly checks. She enjoyed her senior year at Helena High School, and in the fall, she heads to the University of Alabama. Reilly is interested in business and marketing and plans to participate in sorority rush this fall. As for cheering in the future, Reilly is still undecided. Even though she may move on from cheer, she says it has been a constant source of joy in her life, and she has always and will always love cheering. She especially treasures the friendships she has developed through the years. Reilly’s story is an inspiration for all who find themselves facing a troubling health crisis or diagnosis. The future looks bright for Reilly, and we want to wish her the very best as she heads off to college this fall!

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2019

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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 USA; 4/14 K Co (DET B), Unit 43671, FPO AP 96426-3671; Al Anbar, Iraq; Karen Dickinson’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

LCPL Jared M. Fitzgerald USMC; 9th Communication Battalion; Camp Pendleton; CA; Rosemarie Butler’s son and Jeff’s stepson, Justin and Tyler’s brother

SPC, Alexander Palmer Combat Medic Schofield, O’ahu, Hawaii

Petty Officer 3rd Class Justin D. Gilbert USCG, Machinery Technician; Mobile, AL, Leslie’s husband, Cohen & Kerrigan’s dad, 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

PFC Zachary Barr USA: 7th Special Forces Group; Eglin AFB, FL Cynthia & Mark Barr’s son

SSG Jay Gortney ARNG; 20th Special Forces; Iraq; April’s husband

SGT Steven M. Bennett USA; Paratrooper/Rigger; Fort Benning, GA Clara & Ken Lorino’s son

SGT Brooks Gray USA; Ranger; Scofield BKS, HI; John Gray’s son, Lauren & Ryan Gray’s brother

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

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 MC1 Andrew “AJ” Johnson USN; 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 SGT Jacob S. Lenoir USA; Sniper Unit of 1-64 Inf; Fort Stewart, GA; Beth Eades’ son, Caitlyn’s husband

1st LT William B. Cofer USA; Fort Campbell, KY; Dorothy & Jim Cofer’s son, Deborah’s brother

SRA Tanner McGinnis USAF; 90th SFS Tactical Response Force; FE Warren AFB; Cheyenne, Wyoming Ken & Jo McGinnis’ son

CPO Austin C. Daniel USN; Norfolk, VA; Mike & Claudia Daniel’s son, Justin, Tatum & Autumn’s brother

2nd LT Jacob Allen Meins USAF, Special Operations Command; Kathy Meins Martin’s son

Captain Jon P. Darrenkamp USA; Schofield Barracks, HI; Carol Darrenkamp’s son, Stephen & Eric’s brother

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

SSgt Phillip Hembree USAF Police, Japan Deborah Hembrees’s son, Joann Pilato’s grandson Jessica’s husband and Emily Faith’s daddy.

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!

SGT Peter J. “Pete” Reese ARNG; 152nd MP Co.; Lauren’s husband; Kai, Sam, Dalton, Brook & Kaiti’s father CPL Casey B. Reitz USMC, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines, Camp Lejeune, NC, Tom and Suzi Reitz’s son, Tommy, Joey, and Emily’s brother SPC Dwight A Rosse Jr. USA; 1-32 Cav 1st Bct, Fort Campbell, KY; Dwight & Michelle Rosse’s son, Britney & Carlton’s brother Kenneth R. Russell USMC, 123 Beaufort, South Carolina Carolyn Russell’s son 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 Capt John M Traylor, Jr USAF; 64th Aggressor Squadron; Nellis AFB, NV; 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

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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.

New Elam Baptist Church Cunningham Drive • 663-2230 Rev. Lester Sunday School 10:00 AM Morning Worship 11:00 AM

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

Riverside Baptist Church

1919 Highway 52 W • 426-1910 Pastor Chris Wilson • rbchelena.org Sunday Bible Study 9:15 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM

BAPTIST CrossBridge Community Church Starkey Street (off 261) • 621-2695 Pastors Harris Cook & Bruce Squires crossbridgehelena.com Sunday Worship 10:00 AM Wednesday Prayer Service 6:30 PM

Shiloh Baptist Church

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

First Baptist Church Helena

815 Highway 52 E • 663-7879 fbhelena.org Sunday Bible Study 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM & 6:00 PM

CHRISTIAN—DISCIPLES OF CHRIST Grace Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

Gospel Light Baptist Church

5781 Roy Drive • 685-0772 Pastor Gary Bohman • glbcbham.com Sunday Bible Study 9 & 11:30 AM Sunday Worship 10 AM & 6 PM Wednesday Prayer Service 7 PM

Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church

Highway 261 • 663-5257 Rev. Edwin D. Dinkins • mpbchelena.com Sunday School 10:00 AM Morning Worship 11:00 AM

869 Highway 52 • 426-1233 Rev. Brad Henderson 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

The Church at Cahaba Bend

Member Presbyterian Church in America 2222 Hwy 52 • 881-4222 Pastors: Phil Chambers & David Cunningham www.cccbham.org Sunday Worship 10:30 AM

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 1560 Cunningham Drive • 663-7396 METHODIST Rev. Franklin L. Kirksey Helena United Methodist Church Sunday Worship 7:00 & 10:00 AM 2035 County Road 58 • 663-0111 Thursday Bible Teaching 10:00 AM Dr. Mary Henley • helenaumc.org Worship 9AM Traditional, 11AM Contemporary PRESBYTERIAN Sunday School 10AM 3721 Highway 52 W • 621-8060 Rev. Keith Elder • cahababend.org Sunday School 9:15 AM Contemporary Worship 10:30 AM

Christ Community Church

Helena Cumberland Presbyterian NAZARENE 3396 Helena Road • 663-2174 Trinity Church of the Nazarene 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

Pastor Mike Ensminger helenacpchurch.com Sunday School 9:00 AM Morning Worship 10:00 AM

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!

2035 Highway 58; Helena, AL 205-663-0111 www.helenaumc.org

Lauri Williams, DMD, PC Charles Bordenca, DMD 219 North First St. Alabaster, AL 35007 Phone 205.664.2130 After Hours 205.941.0631

www.AlabasterSmiles.com No representation is made that the quality of dental services provided is greater than those provided by other dentists.

38 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

Students

Serving as chaperones were, l-r: Chelsey Hosmer, Barbara Hubbard, Erin Merifield, Julie Gray, and Diane Rogers

PROM for

WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

SPONSORED BY SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS

Peer Helpers who attended were, l-r: Maddie Jones, Leanna Henderson, Chloe Van Kovering and Jordan Narkates

Helena High’s students with special needs attend prom in style this year Shelby County Schools’ Prom for Students with Special Needs is an annual event held at Sterling Castle in Shelby, Alabama, for the county’s high schools. Helena High School had 13 students and four “Peer Helpers” attend Prom this year. Valinda Pate, an adapted PE teacher for Shelby County schools, organized the event. Taziki’s was served for

lunch. To make the Prom extra memorable this year, Julie Gray (one of the school’s special and loving bus drivers), helped with a special fundraiser. With her as the driving force, the group was able to raise enough money to get a charter bus through Rare Transportation and rode in style to and from Prom. Helena High School’s students

with special needs really look forward to this special event each year. Special Needs teacher, Erin Merifield, said, “They love to dance and have a great time. It always makes us (teachers) extremely happy to see all the smiles, laughter, and wonderful memories being made each year at Prom.” “The driver for the trip, Bobby

Young, was perfect for the occasion,” said Erin, who said that he even helped out at the event by helping to serve lunch. Erin also wanted to extend thanks to Patsy Maner, who is also an adapted PE teacher. Erin said that Patsy worked hard to locate and get donated dresses for some of the girls who attended to be sure that they all enjoyed a special night.

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2019

2ND ANNUAL STIVAL ERRY FE BLACK & BLUEB E JUN 15

Every Saturday 8:00AM to 12:00PM June 1st–August 31st, 2019 June 1st

Chef Chris Hastings, Hot & Hot Fish Club; Performer: Old Town Music Students

June 8th

PEACHES & ICE CR EAM DAY JULY 6

Chef Matthew Guy Lagace; Performer: Kat Fowler; Nonproﬁt: Alabama Partners for Clean Air

June 15th

2ND ANNUAL BLACK AND BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL featuring a petting zoo, pony rides and a bouncy house slide combo Chef Clifton Holt, Little Savannah Restaurant & Bar; Performer: Rick Carter; Nonproﬁt: Two by Two Rescue

June 22nd

Performer: Katie Slagle; Nonproﬁt: Kitty Kat Rescue

June 29th

Chef Matthew Norman; Performer: Steve Norris; Nonproﬁt: YMCA Pelham

July 6th

Peaches and Ice Cream Day Performer: Kat Fowler

July 13th

WATERM EL AUGUSTON DAY 3

BBQ Boston Butt Cookoff Performer: Thomas Trussell; Nonproﬁt: Helena Miracle League

July 20th

Performer: Intermission Band

July 27th

Grilled Corn Day Performer: Joe Cagle

August 3rd

Watermelon Day Performer: James Quakenbush

August 10th

Tomato Sandwich Day Performer: Katie Slagle

August 17th

BLT Day Performer: Jarod Hill

August 24th

Tractor Day Performer: Kat Fowler; Nonproﬁt: Jane B. Holmes (Helena) Library

August 31st

Carshow Performer: Old Town Music Students

Farmers, Vendors, & Artisans (subject to change)

• C&J Farms–Many Fruits and Vegetables: Peaches to Plums and Corn • Broccoli George Family Farms–Grassfed, Hormone-Free Meats • Cheyenne Farms–Fresh Eggs, Fruits, Vegetables, Baked Goods, & More • Mori Farms–Peanuts, Tomatoes, Squash, Cucumbers, Pickles, & More • Medders Family Farm–Homemade Peanut & Sunﬂower Butter • Wilkes Microgreens–Radish, Peas, Broccoli & Lettuce • Talley’s Fruit Farm–Apples, Blueberries, Peaches & Nectarines KC’s Fresh Seafood–Gulf of Mexico Fresh (never frozen) Fish & Shrimp • Aldrich Farms–Blueberries • Skull Girl Soaps • BB’s Breads • Fat Susan’s Cookies & Pastries • Brady’s Natural–Homemade Pickles, Jellies, Jams & Seasonings • Bee Creek Honey • The Petal Cart (Fresh Flowers) • Austin Beard (BBQ Sauce)

www.HelenaMarketDays.com

40 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

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TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2019

Take me out to the ball game! There’s nothing quite like watching a game of little league baseball to remind you that summer is right around the corner. And maybe there is no better place to watch a game than on a spring afternoon at one of Penhale or Joe Tucker Park’s five ball fields. Things have changed in the 15 years or so since since my family and I were almost daily visitors to one of these parks. These days, for the beginners (4-5-year-olds), coaches no longer pitch the ball to the batters. Nowadays, they hit

42 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org CityOfHelena.org .org

the ball off a tee. And only those who keep score on their own know what the score is, because there is nothing on the scoreboard to indicate it. I suppose there is something to be said for this as outfielders who seem more interested in kicking dirt, pulling flowers or grass, or trying out their latest dance moves are no longer looked down upon in a tight, 35-34 type shootout as we did in days of old, and kids can just get out on the field and be kids while starting the process of

learning some basic fundamentals of the game before they graduate at age six to the coach-pitch league where the scoreboards come alive once again and fans share that excitement. We took our camera out to watch a couple of games from both leagues recently. We hope you were able to get out and enjoy some of this fun yourselves. As far as little league baseball goes, for my money, it doesn’t get any better than this! #AmericanAsApplePie

Daughter of Retired Air Force Master Sargent Promoted to Commander Naval Hospital Beaufort holds promotion ceremony for Helena native, Lieutenant Commander Kimberly Oelschlager, in March Commander (CDR) Kim Oelschlager, the daughter of Sara and Ted Oelschlager, is a graduate of Pelham High School. Her father, Ted, is a retired United States Air Force Master Sergeant that served during the Korean Conflict and Vietnam War. After completing her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from Samford University, Oelschlager enlisted in the Navy in April 2001. She spent nearly three years as a Hospital Corpsman before commissioning as a Lieutenant Junior Grade into the United States Medical Service Corps in 2003. Oelschlager is a designated Aerospace Operational Physi-

ologist and Fleet Marine Force Warfare Officer. She has served at five commands across the United States including Aviation Survival Training Center (ASTC) Miramar, San Diego, Ca.; one of the busiest Aviation Survival Training Centers in the Fleet. Among her many accomplishments, CDR Oelschlager was instrumental in the data collection and curriculum development for an integrated virtual reality training system for night vision training operations resulting in the purchase of these systems for night labs across the NavyMarine Corps Aviation Community. She was also part of Naval

Air Systems Command, Fleet Support Team that developed an Integrated Body Armor Survival Vest for rotary wing aircrew that was operationally tested in Afghanistan in 2010. NHB Commanding Officer, Capt. Robert Jackson, said he is delighted and grateful to have an officer of Oelschlager’s caliber serving under his command. Jackson shared, “CDR Oelschlager, apart from being an exceptional Director for Public Health at my command, is also an outstanding Naval Officer who exhibits the Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment on a daily basis. Her contribution to this com-

mand’s dynamic mission of keeping F-35 Joint Strike fighter pilots healthy and flying at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort or helping “Make Marines” at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island do not go unnoticed.” Congratulations go out to one of Helena’s finest, CDR Kim Oelschlager! ABOUT NAVAL HOSPITAL BEAUFORT: Open since 1949, Naval Hospital Beaufort provides general medical, surgical and urgent care services to all active duty personnel, as well as retired military, family members and veteransresiding in the Beaufort area, a total population of approximately 29,000 beneficiaries.

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2019

Kelli Holmes of Helena named to BBJ’s Top 40 Under 40 Kelli Johnson Holmes, director of development at the University of Montevallo, was honored among the Birmingham Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40 at a reception held in February at Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham-Irondale Campus. Holmes was one of the 40 finalists selected from more than 350 nominations for the 2019 list. For this honor, the Birmingham Business Journal recognizes individuals who have contributed to company growth and success, are key leaders in their organizations, play a critical role in the community and will play a key role in the Birmingham business community moving forward. In her role in the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs at UM, Holmes works diligently as the major gifts officer to set the course and direction for activities relating to fundraising for the advancement of the university. One of the highlights of her achievements in this role is working with donors to establish scholarships to help students earn their education. She has secured more than $400,000 in funding for the University Foundation, increasing the recovery rate of lapsed donors by more than 20 percent in her development portfolio. During her time at the University of Montevallo, Holmes has greatly enhanced the programs offered and funding for scholarships and other university initiatives. “Kelli Holmes has been successful at any job or project she has taken on due to her hard work, diligence and dedication,” said Scott Dillard, UM vice president of advancement and external affairs. See more at https://www.montevallo.edu/holmes-top40 44 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

The Shelby County Amateur Radio Club is hosting a radio open house June 14 and 15 at the Helena Community Center (Sports Complex). The public is invited. The admission fee is $5.00, good for both days. On Friday, June 14th the hours are 4:00 PM till 7:00 PM; On Saturday, June 15th the hours are 8:30 AM till 3:00 PM. An announcement flier is attached. Amateur Radio provides communication services to the public in disaster situations when public services are not working due to bad weather or other unusual situations. The radio hobby provides a pathway to many young men and women into fields such as electrical engineering, electricians, and various computer related fields. The Clubs web site is www.w4shl.com. The club meets on a regular schedule and welcomes visitors to its meetings. Hundreds of Amateur Radio Clubs exist across the USA and other countries. The Clubs in the USA are united by a national organization, the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). Information about the ARRL can be found www.arrl.org. Information from the ARRL detailing how Amateur Radio Clubs interface with State, County, and City Governmental Agencies in times of disaster to serve the public are attached. Come out and join the radio fun on June 14-15!

Community Service Project… Sgt. P’s Lapghans for Veterans O’Reilly Auto Parts Open for Business A ribbon cutting and Open House was on the agenda for a Helena back in February. O’Reilly Auto Parts gave out some terrific door prizes and treated their guests to some wonderful goodie bags filled with handy small tools and accessories, all emblazoned with the O’Reilly logo. Refreshments were served, and a good time was had by all. The store manager even made a generous donation to Mary Chambliss for her Helena Miracle League organization. The ribbon cutting was sponsored by the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. The next time you are in need of parts for your vehicle, be sure to remember to buy them right here in Helena, where your tax dollars are put to work for you. Visit O’Reilly Auto Parts the next time you are in the vicinity!

We would like to introduce you to an organization here in the Helena/ Alabaster/Pelham area that is involved in a worthwhile charitable activity. Ladies in Shelby County, and the above three cities in particular, have joined the national organization, Sgt. P’s Lapghans for Veterans. A group of approximately 8-10 women meet every Friday for fun, encouragement and ideas while making lap robes for veterans in Alabama veterans hospitals, nursing homes and retirement communities. The local group has hand-made and distributed over 200 lapghans so far. Don’t knit or crochet? We have those who can teach you. Don’t quilt? We have others who can teach quilting. Don’t know how to do anything? We have a need for those who can use a pair of scissors for cutting material. This cheerful work is all volunteer and is non-profit. Funds and supplies are provided by many in our communities. All donations are gladly accepted. To see the photo gallery and obtain further information, please contact our President, Mrs. Thea Kok at (205) 620-0790. Or, see the national website at https://sgtpslapghans.org. Submitted by Grace E. Honeywell.

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A Helena mother cautions women of child bearing age to know their CMV status Valyn Anglin, a Helena resident, owner of Studio V Salon and first-time parent, was looking forward to her 4D ultrasound when she was 31 weeks pregnant with her oldest. During the ultrasound, the technician showed some concerns, and when the doctor saw the results, he knew immediately that her baby had Cytomegalovirus, (CMV). CMV is a common virus that most people have been exposed to at some point in their lives. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that between 50 and 80 percent of United States residents have had a CMV infection by the time they are 40-years-old. A CMV infection causes cold-like symptoms and is rarely a cause for concern for healthy kids and adults. You might have it and never even know it. However, CMV can be devastating for an unborn baby when its mother contracts it, or when an infected woman becomes pregnant. “CMV affects

one in every 200 babies born each year in the United States,” said Valyn. “It is the most common congenital viral infection. Babies infected with CMV before birth may develop issues such as hearing loss, developmental disabilities and microcephaly among many others. The results can vary widely, from mild to severe.” At 37 weeks gestation, Valyn gave birth to her son, Dominic. Today, Dominic is a three-yearold little boy who is cherished by his family. He has been diagnosed with microcephaly, spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, epilepsy, cortical visual impairment and hearing loss. He has a feeding tube and requires oxygen. With all his challenges though, Dominic still enjoys life and brings joy to those around him. Valyn says he likes riding in the car and loves the feeling he gets when they go across bumps in the road. He lights up the room with his smile when he hears his Nana’s voice. Prayer and the support of her

family are what has helped Valyn through this difficult journey. She wants people to know that CMV is common, and its effects can be life altering, but it IS preventable. According to the national CMV.org website, 91 percent of women do not even know about CMV. The virus can be spread from one adult to another, but it is more common for pregnant women to contract the virus from children. The virus is common in healthy preschoolage children, and it can easily be spread to other children. CMV is not generally harmful to these children. Pregnant women should be cautious, however, when coming into contact with the saliva or urine of young children. By practicing standard hygiene procedures, you can protect yourself from CMV. Follow these common sense tips to help prevent the spread of CMV: • Do not share food, utensils, drinks or straws. • Do not put a child’s pacifier in

your mouth for any reason. • Avoid contact with saliva when kissing a child. • Do not share a toothbrush. • Wash your hands after changing diapers, feeding a child, wiping a child’s nose or mouth or handing a child’s toy. All women of childbearing age should know their CMV status. Before you plan to conceive, ask your doctor for a test. Valyn has found support from other families who have children with CMV, and she found support through Facebook groups like CMV mommies and other resources for parents of children with disabilities. Valyn is now a local business owner (Studio V Salon is at the corner of 58 and 95 near Snap Fitness) and a mom to two boys. She says her experience has inspired her to view the world differently now, and she feels blessed to have Dominic in her life. To read more about CMV, visit nationalcmv.org.

For his Eagle Scout Project, Garrett Hinds laid new sod in the median at the entrance to the Helena Sports Complex.

New Eagle Scout in town!

Husky Graduate Garrett Hinds completes Eagle Project Helena High School senior, Garrett Hinds, is an accomplished young man with a bright future. In elementary school, Garrett heard a presentation about Boy Scouts of America. He came home and begged his mother to take him to the meeting. Soon after, he joined the Cub Scouts and then went on to join Boy Scout Troop 2. Twelve years later, on April 29, 2019, Garrett was awarded the most prestigious honor and highest achievement a Boy Scout can earn, the rank of Eagle Scout. In the Boy Scouts of America, only four percent of all scouts make Eagle Scout. Some well-known names among this prestigious group are Sam Walton, Michael Bloomberg, Steven

Spielberg and Neil Armstrong. The journey to Eagle Scout is a lengthy process; a scout must focus on physical fitness, being a good citizen, and possess good personal character. They must earn at least 21 merit badges and focus on leadership and service. This includes a service project that the scout plans, organizes and manages. Becoming an Eagle Scout takes perseverance and hard work. After much thought, Garrett chose a service project that would benefit the city of Helena. He grew up going to the Helena Sports Complex, and he saw there was a need to do something with the median going up to the park. The median had been mulched for years, but it proved

48 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

to be problematic when it rained heavily, and it needed to be weeded regularly. Garrett put together a proposal, had it approved, and then put together a plan to carry out his project. Garrettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eagle Project was to remove the mulch in the median and put down fresh sod. Friends Christian Hill, Reese Davis, Brennen Davis, Megan Fortson and Gracie Hughes all helped Garrett carry out his plan. Garrettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dad, Brian, also helped and donated the funds to complete the project. Today the sod is lush and beautiful and appreciated by the community. As a senior, Garrett can see more clearly the value of being a scout. He hopes more students will follow in his footsteps and give Boy Scouts a try. He is

thankful for the years of instruction and hard work that helped him develop his leadership skills and a desire to teach and help others. Garrett is grateful for the support of his family and Jonathon Whitman, his adult Boy Scout leader and former Cub Scout leader, who guided him along his journey to Eagle Scout. Garrett plans to attend the University of South Alabama in the fall and is interested in studying electrical engineering. He hopes to be able to give back by volunteering as a leader one day with the Boy Scouts of America. Garrett is the son of proud parents Brian and Tracey Hinds of Helena. He has two older sisters, Rachel and Rebecca. Congratulations, Garrett!

Helena Independence Day party set for

July 3rd with ﬁreworks and FUN!!! This July 3rd, Helena residents get a twofer. Helena Business Association (HBA) President, Amy Guida, says the Helena Business Association and the City of Helena will pitch in once again and sell t-shirts to add to the fireworks bang for a First Friday-type experience on Wednesday, July 3rd.

Plans call for taking the proceeds from t-shirt sales between now and midJune and combining it with the city’s annual Independence Day fireworks display budget. HBA volunteers have kicked into high gear, and are taking preorders for t-shirts now—they’re only $12. The HBA is also solic-

iting and accepting monetary donations to help make this year’s Independence Day fireworks show the best one ever! For info on pre-ordering your tees or to make a monetary donation, call Amy Guida at 205-777-7856 or email info@hbahelena.com. Orders will also be taken at select Helena merchants

around town and at Market Days Saturday mornings starting June 1. Mark your calendars now and plan to join in the fun Wednesday, July 3rd. The party starts at 5:30pm with fireworks just after dark. There will be food trucks and vendors oﬀering up all kinds of good stuﬀ—see you there!

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2019

Helena High School majorettes earn Winterfest honors Helena High School majorettes placed 1st at the Winterfest Twirling Championship. They placed 1st in open school dance twirl and 2nd in state school dance/twirl at the state competition. Members of the 20182019 Husky Majorettes: Halli Webb, Peyton Owens, Aliyah Merchant, Morgan Snead, Madison Epperson, Anna Reed Dramer, Elizabeth Turner, Cassidy Purkapile, and Chloe Yarbrough

Helena High School Colorguard has a year to remember Congratulations go out to the Helena High School Color Guard on the completion of another teriific school year! Best wiahes to all the team members, especially the seniors as they move on to the next phase of their lives. In the photo above, junior varsity members are in purple, and varsity members are dressed in black) Varsity: Joelle Ward, Emily Raley, Kaylee Moss, Taylor Causey, Alexis Danner, Madison Corley, Alyssa Scott, Giavanna Sarris, Gabbie Hervig, and Maddie Kae Jones. Junior Varsity: Zhanya Powell, Mady Bright, Mackenzie Kirchler, Charlotte Smith, Audrey Deifenderfer, Callie Jackson, Olivia Hudson Presley Richardson, Heather Sides and Anna Martin. 50 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

Pictured above are two new University of Alabama Crimsonettes, UAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name for its majorettes. They are, l-r: Morgan Snead, veteran Abbey Manasco and Madison Epperson. Two Huskies join former Husky twirler, Sydney Edmundson on the Tiger Eyes majorette line next fall. Pictured below, l-r: Cassidy Purkapile, Sydney Edmunson and Elizabeth Turner. Congartualtions to all these former Helena Huskies!

Four Helena twirlers named to majorette lines at both UA and AU The 2019-2020 Crimsonettes, Bamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name for its majorettes, will include two newly minted members from Helena. Congratulations to Helena High School seniors Madison Epperson and Morgan Snead. The pair will join rising UA senior, Abbey Manasco, a former Helena Husky twirler, when the Crimsonettes perform next fall as members of the University of Alabama Million Dollar Band. Way to go ladies, and Roll Tide! Two Huskies will also join former Husky twirler, Sydney Edmundson, on the Plains next fall. Helena High seniors, Cassidy Purkapile and Elizabeth Turner, auditioned and were selected to join the Tiger Eyes Majorette Line at Auburn University next fall. Congratulations, ladies, and War Eagle!

Helena High School Dance Team earns tons of honors this year Congratulations go out to the Helena High School Dance team for their accomplishments this year! In addition to performing at school events and football games in the fall, the ladies earned some competition honors this year, as well. At the NDA Bama State Championship, the dance team, under the direction of Jenni Hodgens Russell, earned: State Champions-Large Kick Division 3rd Place-Large Jazz Division Megan Calvert- 2nd Place Teen Solo Reese Tew- 1st Place Teen Solo At the UDA Magic City Championship: Below, l-r: Reese Tew, Megan Calvert, and 2nd Place Varsity Kick Ashlyn Collett–solo4th Place Medium Varsity Jazz ists earning individual At the UDA Peachtree City Championship: honors this past year Varsity Kick- Regional Champions 3rd Place- Medium Jazz Megan Calvert- 5th Place Teen Solo Reese Tew- 6th Place Teen Solo Ashlyn Collett- 2nd Place Members of the Husky Dance Team include: Lauren Caver-Capt, Dessinee Payne-Capt, Meagan Ingram, Teri Kate Atchison, Abbey Letcher, Kylee Moore, Megan Calvert, Olivia Beland, Kate Hawes, Abigail Viola, Graycee Quick, Natalie Sestili, Ava Carson, Ashlyn Collett, and Reese Tew. Hats off to all the Dance Team members on a terrific year!

Husky Dance Team at the UDA Peachtree City Championship in February

Two senior members of the dance team, Lauren Caver and Dessinee Payne, will dance for the University of North Alabama Roar Dance Team starting in the fall. Congratulations!

Poison look-alikes can kill

Parents who take great care to child-proof their home may be overlooking every day household items that pose a risk of poisoning. Ann Slattery is the director of the Regional Poison Control Center at Children’s of Alabama. She says parents need to watch out for what she calls “look-alike”products. For instance, a child may think a bottle of pine cleaner looks like a bottle of apple juice or a bottle of all-purpose cleaner looks like a sports drink. There has been an increase in poisonings due to detergent pods, and the bright colors can cause a child to mistake it for a piece of candy. Experts say it’s best to use traditional detergent if you have a child under 6-years-old in the home. Slattery says the Regional Poison Control Center at Children’s of Alabama received more than 42,000 calls in 2016. Many of those calls were associated with

household look-a-like items. She encourages parents to look around their home for items that may be mistaken for food or drink. Remember, just because an item has child-resistant packaging doesn’t always mean it’s child-proof. Slattery says the risk doesn’t only apply to children. “Adults may unintentionally get into these products, not realizing what they are,” she says. “In some cases, it could be dark and they reach for the wrong bottle. Accidental poisoning may also occur when an individual suffers from dementia”. “All household cleaning products should be kept out of sight and out of reach. Ideally, these products should be in a cabinet with a child-resistant closure,” Slattery advises. The Regional Poison Control Center at Children’s of Alabama is available 24/7/365 for poison advice for all ages. The number is 1-800-222-1222. Slattery recommends parents store the number in their cell phones for easy access.

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2019

Duck Race T ime!

18th Annual Buck Creek Festival! The 2019 Buck Creek Festival might have gotten rained out early on Saturday this year, but there are thanks due to the dedicated staff of volunteers Cris Nelson and company put together, and the city thanks her for her and her crew’s efforts over the years in staging this family-friendly event. Even though this year’s festival was closed early on Saturday when lightning threatened the area, much fun was had both Friday evening and Saturday as Helena shook off its collective winter gear in favor of shorts and t-shirts, brought their folding chairs and kicked back with good food, good music and good fun. Upon entering the park, one could not help but notice that Oversoul Brewing was open and seemed to be a popular place for visitors to relax on the expansive deck or in the lower-level fencedin courtyard and enjoy a bit of liquid refreshment in an attempt to beat the heat. The festival featured a food truck food court, and offerings ranged from Alligator-on-a-stick to shrimp tacos to Golden Rule BBQ and lots in between. The Kona Ice truck stayed busy, and the vendors all seemed to do a brisk business while children played on one of the many blow ups scattered throughout the park or splashed in the creek. All in all, it was a great weekend to be in Helena if you are the fun-loving sort. The rubber duck race will return again next year—same times, same weekend. The shirts that volunteers wore saying “The Last Rodeo” was an indicator that the current group of volunteers is retiring, but don’t you worry. A new crew is currently being formed, and plans are to keep the same type family-friendly fun event next year and beyond. Watch for information in future editions of this magazine and the city’s website at CityOfHelena.org. Thanks to all who came out, and we hope to see you all right back here next Mother’s Day weekend!

LIVE MUSIC! DANCING, FOOD&DRINK!

52 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

embers M e e t t i m m w BCF Co e f a & n o Cris Nels

Fun For All! ght Band i N y a d i r BCF F

Helena Belles Uniform of the day! Buck Creek Festival Band

THANKS TO ALL WHO CAME OUT!

TO ADVERTISE, CALL the Publisher at 746.1188 / MyHelenaCityNews.com / Late Spring 2019

2019

Helena High School presents Summer Youth Camps 2019 Soccer Camp June 3-7 (Pre-register, it’s an extra $5 to register day of event) Volleyball Camp June 10-13 (Must register by June 3) Baseball Camp June 10-12 (May register up to day of event) Cheerleading Camp June 18-20 (Must register by June 3 Basketball Camp June 24-26 (May register up to day of event)

2019

Musical Theatre Camp July 15-19 (Register by June 23 to receive a camp t-shirt) To find downloadable forms for all these camps, please visit the school’s website at http://www.shelbyed.org/schools/hhs or www.myhelenacitynews.com. Please check the school’s site for any changes or other late breaking camps! 54 Late Spring 2019 / www.CityOfHelena.org

Clockwise from top left: the nearly completed wall; a senior reaches high to make her mark; talented senior artist Matthew Davis adds his touches; Senior athletes Avery Barnett and Kirsen Gardner make their marks; and Laine Ingram, the senior who started it all with a letter to Mayor Mark Hall.

Class of 2019 leaves its mark inside Hillsboro Trail tunnel in Old Cahaba 2019 Helena High School graduate Laine Ingram says she got the idea that her class was suffering from a condition known as athazagoraphobia, and she and friend, Meredith Byrd, decided they would try and do something to help their fellow graduates get past their aﬄiction. “Athazagoraphobia is the fear of being forgotten,” explained Laine in a letter addressed to Mayor Mark Hall. In the letter, Laine told the mayor that she had been involved in numerous activities and organizations while a student at Helena High. “Throughout high school,” said Laine, “I participated in groups such as Student Ambassadors, Helena Belles, and the varsity cheer team. I plan to attend the University of Alabama in the fall and participate in the honors program.”

“A few weeks ago, a friend and I were talking about our future and the Class of 2019’s future as a whole. My friend, Meredith Byrd, also a senior and a part of the Helena Belles and student government, is going to Anderson University in South Carolina,” Laine continued. “There are over 250 students graduating from Helena High School this year, and each one has their own path they will travel. Despite the fact that most of the class will only be in Helena for a few more months, there are still so many milestones ahead of us. As May 21 approaches,” said Laine, “much more quickly than any of us can imagine, nostalgia is beginning to kick in. In addition, the senior class is beginning to suffer from athazagoraphobia. Athazagoraphobia is the fear of being forgotten,” she

explained. “Meredith and I feel it is necessary that the Class of 2019 leave something behind. We would like to leave our handprints along the inside of a Hillsboro Tunnel. We would only pick one tunnel and put them all together. This would perhaps not only create some art for the numerous people who pass through the tunnel daily, but would give our class something to claim and physically represent the handprints we left on this city. Each year, students could continue the tradition by adding their own handprints along the walls of the tunnels,” said Laine. She concluded, saying, “After all this, I am asking you to consider letting us leave a small mark on the city that has so greatly shaped our lives thus far. We understand that this is not a small thing to ask, but as Wayne Gretzky once said, “You

miss 100 percent of the shots you do not take.” Laine finished by thanking Mayor Hall for taking the time to read her letter and giving him a hearty Roll Tide. The mayor’s answer? Well, see for yourself in the pictures above. A new tradition is born for future generations of Huskies to continue when it is their time to dip their hands in the paint! All the best to this 2019 senior class of Huskies—you won’t be forgotten. Be sure to take a look at the nearest tunnel to the school (in Old Cahaba) the next time you are on the trail getting your exercise. Special thanks to talented senior, Matthew Davis, for painting the lettering for this project. (“Matthew won Best in Show at the Art Show this year and is an amazing artist,” said Laine.)

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