CROWNING MOMENT
PHOTOS FROM MISS HHS AND LITTLE
MISS HELENA
GETTING RESTED
SLEEP IN HEAVENLY PEACE PROVIDES BEDS
A CENTURY LATER
HELENA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HITS MILESTONE, CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF EDUCATION SUCCESS
City Leadership
A letter from the mayor
Mayor Puckett shares his excitement for upcoming spring events
As we step into April, I hope this letter finds you and your family refreshed and recharged. We ended March with a much-needed Spring Break—a chance to take a breath, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy a little relaxation before we head into what promises to be a full and exciting month.
Looking back, March was nothing short of amazing. Our community saw a flurry of activity,
accomplishments, and plenty of fun. From local events to milestones in our schools and athletic programs, Helena continues to be a city full of energy and heart. And if March was busy, April is going to be even more jam-packed with opportunities to connect, celebrate, and look forward to the warmer months ahead.
One of the most exciting developments coming in April is the official swearing-in of
“From local events to milestones in our schools and athletic programs, Helena continues to be a city full of energy and heart. ”
our new Police Chief, Mike Wood, on April 14th. Chief Wood is certainly no stranger to Helena. A long-time resident of our city, he brings decades of leadership, dedication, and law enforcement experience to the department and our community. Chief Wood spent the last 30 years serving with the Bessemer Police Department, where he most recently held the role of Chief of Police for the past two years. We are thrilled to welcome him into this new role in Helena, and we look forward to the positive impact he will have on our officers, our city, and our safety.
that makes our town feel like home. Stay tuned for announcements on this year’s lineup!
April holds something truly special for our elementary school. Not only are they hosting their annual Spring Fling—an event full of fun, games, and family activities—but they’re also celebrating the school’s 100th year! What a legacy! For a century, Helena Elementary has been shaping young minds and creating memories. We’re incredibly proud of the educators, students, and families who’ve been part of that journey.
Spring also means sports are in full swing. Baseball, softball, and soccer fields are alive with activity—and it’s been a joy to see families and fans cheering on our young athletes. There’s just something special about spring evenings at the ballpark that brings our community together.
We’re also gearing up for another fantastic season of Old Town Live concerts this summer. These events have become a highlight for so many in Helena, offering great music, local vendors, food trucks, and a sense of togetherness
Together As One,
And of course, this month brings Easter—a time of deep reflection, renewal, and celebration. As we gather with friends and family, may we take a moment to remember the incredible gift of grace we’ve been given. In the words of 1 Peter 1:3, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
Thank you for continuing to make Helena the incredible place it is. Here’s to a joyful April filled with purpose, fun, and new beginnings.
- Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena
Mayor Brian Puckett
In this issue
FEATURES
20
New role
Natalie Landrum shares her excitement for becoming an assistant principal at HIS
26
Hitting triple digits
Helena Elementary School celebrates 100 years of growth and excellence
34
Laying down
Sleep in Heavenly Peace provides beds to kids in need
Michaela Bankston
Dave Domescik
Sydney
Kelsey
Rachel Henderson
Rhett McCreight
Viridiana
Cable, Internet and Phone
uAT&T Uverse – 1-888-708-0934 att.com
uSpectrum – 1-855-707-7328 spectrum.com
uC-Spire, Fiber Internet – 1-855-277-4735 cspire.com
Gas
uSpire – 1-800-292-4008 spireenergy.com
Power
uAlabama Power Company – 1-800-245-2244 alabamapower.com
Trash Services
uRepublic Services – (205) 631-1313 republicservices.com
Water and Sewer
uHelena Utilities City Water Service (205) 663-1670
LOCAL SCHOOLS
uShelby County Board of Education – (205) 682-7000
shelbyed.k12.al.us/
uHelena Elementary School – (205) 682-5540 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes/index.htm
uHelena Intermediate School – (205) 682-5520 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/his/index.htm
uHelena Middle School – (205) 682-5300 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hlms/index.htm
uHelena High School – (205) 682-3650 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs/index.html
uHillsboro School - (205) 864-7330 thehillsboroschool.org
We want to hear from you!
Do you have an issue that City Hall needs to know about? Please use the City Action Center at cityofhelena.org to get a resolution to your neighborhood issue.
City Government
Brian Puckett
bpuckett@cityofhelena.org
alobell@cityofhelena.org cwillis@ cityofhelena.org ahealy@ cityofhelena.org
ljoseph@cityofhelena.org hwoodman@ cityofhelena.org mharris@ cityofhelena.org
Departments
City Hall (205) 663-2161
Fire Department (205) 663-5809
Sports Complex (205) 620-2877
Library (205) 664-8308
Police (205) 663-6499
Utilities (205) 663-1670
THE GUIDE
HELENA OLD TOWN LIVE
APRIL 5
7:30 P.M
Helena High School
Helena Old Town Live will kick off its 2025 concert series on Saturday, April 5 at 7:30 p.m. This year will be the fifth year that the series will take place, and the first concert of the year will feature the music of JJ Grey & Mofro, along with southern rock artist Paul Thorn.
APRIL 22
HELENA VARSITY SOFTBALL VS. MCADORY
4:30 P.M.
Helena High School
The Helena varsity softball team will cap off its regular season with a home contest against the McAdory Yellow Jackets on Tuesday, April 22, hoping to head into the postseason on a solid note.
APRIL 8
Helena
varsity baseball vs. Spain Park
6:30 P.M.
Helena High School
Helena’s baseball team will host Spain Park in the first game of an area series at Helena High School on Tuesday, April 8 at 6:30 p.m. with the hopes of earning two wins in the series to propel its area record forward.
AROUND TOWN
EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY | 11 A.M.
Storytime at the library
APRIL 1 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity soccer vs. Ramsay, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
APRIL 1 | 6:30 P.M
Varsity baseball vs. Chelsea
APRIL 2 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity softball vs. Pelham
APRIL 3 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity soccer at Hueytown, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
APRIL 3 | 6:30 P.M.
Varsity baseball at Chelsea
APRIL 4-5 | ALL DAY
Varsity softball at Calera Tournament
APRIL 4 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity girls soccer at Leeds
APRIL 5 | 7:30 P.M. Helena Old Town Live
APRIL 8 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity soccer at Indian Springs, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
APRIL 8 | 6:30 P.M.
Varsity baseball vs. Spain Park
APRIL 10-13 | VARIOUS TIMES Helena High School spring play
APRIL 10 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity softball vs. Brookwood
APRIL 10 | 5:30 P.M
Varsity soccer vs. McAdory, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
APRIL 10 | 6:30 P.M.
Varsity baseball at Spain Park
APRIL 11-13 | VARIOUS TIMES
Helena Elementary School Spring Fling
APRIL 12 | 10 A.M.
Sozo Shindig at Helena Hollow
APRIL 12 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity soccer vs. Pelham, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
APRIL 14 | 4:30 P.M
Varsity softball vs. Pell City
APRIL 14 | 6 P.M. Helena City Council Meeting
APRIL 15 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity softball vs. Chelsea
APRIL 15 | 5:30 P.M
Varsity soccer vs. Hueytown, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
APRIL 17 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity softball vs. Spain Park
APRIL 17 | 6 P.M.
Planning and Zoning Committee Meeting
APRIL 17 | 7 P.M.
Varsity boys soccer vs. Hewitt-Trussville
APRIL 17 | 7 P.M
Varsity girls soccer at Calera
APRIL 21 | 5:30 P.M
Varsity girls soccer vs. Pell City
APRIL 21 | 7 P.M.
Varsity boys soccer at Calera
APRIL 22 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity softball vs. McAdory
APRIL 28 | 6 P.M
Helena City Council Meeting
11-13
Spring Fling
VARIOUS TIMES
Helena Elementary School
Helena Elementary School will host its annual Spring Fling from April 11-13, celebrating the school’s 100th year of existence with fun activities, food and a silent auction for all to enjoy.
APRIL 17
HELENA PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
6 P.M. Helena City Hall
The Helena Planning and Zoning Commission will meet on Thursday, April 17 to go over zoning requests and rezoning requests from various citizens and organizations around the city.
HELENA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Monday, April 14 & 28
PRE-COUNCIL AT 5 P.M.,
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 6 P.M.
HELENA CITY HALL
Helena’s City Council meetings take place the second and fourth Mondays of the month. Helena City Council meetings are open to the public and offer the chance for you to get involved in the planning of your community.
APRIL
HELENA CROWNS WINNERS OF MISS HHS, LITTLE MISS HELENA
Donning their gowns and showcasing their talents, Helena allowed girls from all over the city to show out at their annual Miss HHS pageant and Little Miss Helena pageant.
HELENA EARNS NO-HIT WIN, HONORS HOOVER FAMILY
On a day that contained many emotions and a solid game of baseball, the Helena Huskies and the Hoover Buccaneers met for a defensive showdown and battled intently on Thursday, March 6 at Helena High School.
HELENA DOWNS BRANDON, JOHN CARROLL, SPARKMAN AT PERFECT GAME HIGH SCHOOL SHOWDOWN
The Helena Huskies had a wild weekend at the Perfect Game High School Showdown in Hoover as they came close to reaching the White Bracket Championship but still ended the tournament with a 3-1 record.
PURSUIT OF HELENA BURGLARY SUSPECT ENDS IN CRASH
The Helena Police Department has pursued and taken a suspect into custody following a possible burglary and pursuit.
KASH
& CO CONSTRUCTION BUILDING NEW HELENA DRUGS PHARMACY LOCATION
KASH & CO Construction, a construction company located in Shelby County, has announced its latest project: the development of a new pharmacy location for Helena Drugs.
‘MAN OF INTEGRITY’: DON ARMSTRONG REMEMBERED FOR TREATING SHELBY COUNTY LIKE FAMILY
Standing with their heads bowed on Monday, March 10, the Shelby County Commission began their regularly scheduled meeting with a prayer.
HELENA
BOYS, GIRLS SOCCER OPENS AREA PLAY WITH WINS AT BESSEMER CITY
The Helena Huskies got off to a flying start in area play as both the varsity boys and girls soccer teams emerged victorious from a road test.
The Helena City Council honored and recognized the city’s newest Eagle Scout at its regularly scheduled council meeting on Monday, March 10 at Helena City Hall.
HELENA CITY COUNCIL HONORS CITY’S NEWEST EAGLE SCOUT
Update from THE COUNCIL
Andy Healy PLACE 2
I am genuinely excited and humbled to be serving as your newest City Council member. As I begin this journey, one of my top priorities is to help bring our community back together. In the face of challenges, it is easy for people to feel disconnected or disengaged, but I believe that when we come together as one, we are stronger, more resilient and more capable of creating lasting change.
As your new Council member, I will focus on fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and empowered to contribute. Together, we can create new opportunities for connection and we can re-establish the trust and compassion that makes our city unique.
Our local businesses are the heartbeat of our community, and I will advocate for programs that support them. Not only do these businesses provide goods and services, but they are also gathering places that bring people together. I will be pushing for more community events that encourage neighbors to get to know each other, enjoy the city and create a sense of belonging.
Another way we can strengthen our community is by ensuring everyone feels safe and supported. I will be
working closely with local law enforcement and community organizations to build an integrated approach to community safety. A safe city is one where residents feel confident in connecting with one another and contributing to the wellbeing of everyone.
You are the heart of this community, and your voice is essential. I will continue to prioritize open communication and transparency, ensuring that you have avenues to share your thoughts, ideas and concerns. In the coming weeks and months, I plan to be more involved with community advisory groups and to make sure opinions directly influence the work of the City Council. I am honored to be the liaison for the TAG Grant and Diversity and Inclusion board.
In closing, let us come together, not just to address the challenges we face, but to celebrate the unique strengths that each one of you brings to our city. We can build a stronger, more united community—one rooted in empathy, respect and collaboration.
Thank you for your trust in me. I look forward to working together to make our city a place where every resident feels connected, heard and valued.
GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY
SSpring is in the air and the library is a great place to visit to get ideas for gardening, playing outside, cooking and more. The non-fiction department at the library has been revamped over the last year thanks to a grant from Rep. Russell Bedsole. The library staff has made updating this section a priority. Look for new books in the categories of business, self-help, biography and much more.
community and the many volunteers who pitch in to help.
Another fun idea to try is the library DVD collection. Remember this is a great way to save money in the new year. The library has a great collection of movies for all ages. New titles arrive weekly, and all DVDs check out for one week. This is a great value for price-conscious movie lovers. We also have some great television series. Patrons looking for a great deal were in luck in February. The library held a book sale and the proceeds were just over $1,000! Thanks to everyone who donated books for the sale and to the many friends and library supporters who assisted with set up, publicity, running the sale itself and more. We could not have a successful library in Helena without the support of the
Library Director Dan Dearing
Speaking of success, 1,000 Books before Kindergarten is another neat program for younger children. This simple and free program encourages parents to read to their kids frequently, to instill a love of reading and a familiarity with books and learning. A library staff member will give you everything you need to get started and stay on track. Try it out today. Finally, for those of you with younger children, check out our Storytime. This a great event with stories, singalongs and music that will keep young people moving. Storytime is every Tuesday and Thursday at 11 a.m. throughout the year and it is a great way for your preschooler to learn and meet others in your community. After work or school, make sure to stop by the Jane B. Holmes Public Library for all your reading and information needs and wants!
Public Library
230 Tucker Road
Helena, AL 35080
Phone: (205) 664-8308
Facebook: Helena.Public.Library.Friends
Website: cityofhelena.org/public-library
Instagram: @helenalibrary
THREE DAYS IN JUNE
By Anne Tyler | Adult Fiction
A funny, touching, hopeful gem about love, marriage and second chances.
MOST REQUESTED COPYCAT DISHES: 100+ HOMEMADE VERSIONS OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT RECIPES
By Erica Walker | Adult Nonfiction
From fast-food classics to gourmet restaurant delights this book brings the restaurant experience directly to your home kitchen.
THE WAY OF PLAY: USING LITTLE MOMENTS OF BIG CONNECTION TO RAISE CALM AND CONFIDENT KIDS
By Tine Payne Bryson, PhD | Adult Nonfiction
Full of science-backed research, real-life stories and charming line illustrations, this book will help you nurture your kids and encourage them to become calm listeners, cooperative problem solvers, and respectful communicators.
THE FIRST STATE OF BEING
By Erin Entrada Kelly | Juvenile
When 12-year-old Michael Rosario meets a mysterious boy from the future, his life is changed forever.
TASTE OF HOME KIDS CAN COOK!: 171 FUN FOODS YOU CAN MAKE!
By Taste of Home | Juvenile Nonfiction
From no-bake snacks little ones can make on their own to entrees teens can whip up with minimal supervision, these delicious ideas delight big and little chefs alike.
CHOOCH HELPED
By Andrea L. Rogers | Easy/Picture
A Cherokee girl introduces her younger brother to their family’s traditions— begrudgingly!—in a heartfelt picture book full of gorgeous collage illustrations.
Sports
BAILEIGH RUMAGE
Tell me a bit about yourself.
I am a junior at Helena High School. I am in my fourth year of varsity soccer and play club soccer for Alabama FC ECNLR. I serve on the Youth Advisory Council for Family Connections, which serves youth in crisis, and I attend The Station Church.
What inspired you to start playing soccer?
When I was little I always had a ton of energy to burn so I told my parents I wanted to sign up for soccer and see how it went. Since I played in that first season, I fell in love with the sport. My parents continue to inspire me to play soccer as they have always encouraged me to do what I love and to work hard to be the best version of myself in all aspects of life.
Has there ever been a coach or mentor that made a huge impact on you? What did they teach you?
I had a previous club coach, John Imwalle, who always pushed me to get better and has helped me to believe in myself both on and off the field. He continues to be a great mentor for me both in soccer and in life. Additionally, my trainer, Oyeleke Payne, has made the biggest impact on my soccer career. He has encouraged me to go beyond what I thought was possible. His training is not easy, but he has helped me grow into the player I am today. Coach Naron, my high school coach, gave me an opportunity in eighth grade to be a starter for varsity and believed in me more than I believed in myself. He has been influential in helping me to become a better leader.
What strengths do you believe make you a great athlete?
Well, my dad would probably love for me to say it is my genetics, but if I am being honest, I think my drive for success and my desire to work hard gives me success as an athlete. I always push myself to become a better player today than I was yesterday and the only way to accomplish that is to work hard for myself and for those around me.
What is your favorite soccer memory?
At a pre-season tournament at the beginning of this season. We were playing Montgomery Academy and the game was tied 1-1 with only a few minutes left in the game. I scored to go up 2-1 and all my teammates came and celebrated with me. The vision of them sharing that moment with me was really special.
When you’re not in school or playing sports, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time I spend time with my family and friends and playing with my dog, Ember. I enjoy being active and outdoors. I love water sports and snow skiing, hunting with my dad and friends and traveling. I love a good concert, my friends would say I enjoy talking and recently touring colleges around the country has become a fun pastime.
NATALIE LANDRUM
Assistant Principal at Helena Intermediate School
First, tell me more about yourself.
I grew up in Pleasant Grove, Alabama. I attended Auburn University for my undergraduate degree and the University of Alabama at Birmingham for my master’s degree. I recently completed my certification in leadership and administration from the University of Montevallo. I have lived in Helena for 22 years with my husband David. We have three sons Hal, age 19, Hayes, age 15 and Sam, age 14.
Can you tell me about your career in education?
From 2002-2006, I taught fourth grade at Pleasant Grove Elementary. Then from 2006-2023, I taught fourth grade at Helena Intermediate School. From 2023-2024, I was the Administrative Assistant at HIS before I was named Assistant Principal in 2025.
How did it feel when you were named as a new assistant principal for HIS?
Being named as the new assistant principal for HIS was quite an honor. I absolutely loved my time as a teacher at HIS and I am excited to continue my career in this capacity. I hope that my extensive time as a classroom teacher helps me to be an effective administrator.
What makes working with students special?
Working with students has always been my passion. I enjoy forming relationships with kids and their families. I strive to make sure the children I work with know that I love them, believe in them and want to make learning fun.
What has been your favorite thing about working at HIS over the course of your tenure?
My favorite thing about working at HIS is the relationships I have made with students, families, teachers and administrators along the way. At the end of each school year, I get to stand in the hallways of HIS and welcome the newest graduating class as they perform the Senior Walk through the halls. I am filled with pride when I see my “babies” all grown up and ready to begin their lives as young adults. Nothing beats a student stopping for a hug and saying, “Thank you, Mrs. Landrum. I loved being in your class.”
Do you have a message you would like to say to the Helena community?
I would like to thank the Helena community for all of the support I have been given in my time at HIS. I am excited to begin this new chapter of my life, and I will continue to serve Helena to the very best of my ability.
Meet Your Neighbor
The Jones Family
When one city is nearly all you have ever known, it makes for some pretty special memories. If you want proof of that, just ask Sheryl Jones and her family. Sheryl moved to Helena when she was 7 years old 1978, and since then, has been her home. Sheryl got married to her husband, Mark, in 1996. Following that, Mark joined her in Helena. In 2003, they had their one and only son, Evan, and this is the only place of residence that he has ever known outside of his college days at the University of Alabama.
Over the many years that Sheryl has been a Helena resident, she
has been able to see the city grow from just a school, post office and a couple of churches to the busy scene that it is today. Some of her favorite things include the charming quaintness of Old Town, the ability to have anything she needs close by and the small-town hospitality.
One of the big things that the Joneses love about Helena is Christmas time. Sheryl has fond memories of that time of year, having participated in the Christmas parade when she was a child and now picking out their family Christmas tree every year at the lot across from the post office.
Helena Church Directory
ANGLICAN
Lamb of God Church
Head pastor: Caron Glenn Davis 5140 Hwy 17 (205) 919-7932 Lambofgodcec.org
BAPTIST
The Church at Old Town
Head Pastor: Josh Knierim 815 Highway 52 E (205) 663-7879 Thechurchatoldtown.org
Gospel Light Baptist Church
Lead Pastor: Gary Bohman 5781 Roy Drive (205) 685-0772 Glbcbham.com
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church
Head Pastor: Edwin Dinkins 5320 Helena Road (205) 624-3323 Mpbchelena.com
Riverside Baptist Church
Senior Pastor: Chris Wilson
Worship Pastor: Kyle Ziglar 1919 Highway 52 West (205) 426-1910 Rbchelena.org
Crossbridge Community Church
Lead Pastor: Cody Brister 1455 Starkey Street (205) 358-3500 Crossbridgehelena.com
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ at Helena 2499 Highway 58 (205) 620-4575
Helenachurch.com
DISCIPLES OF CHRIST:
Grace Christian Church
Lead Pastor: Rev. Brad Henderson 869 County Road 52 (205) 426-1233
Gracechristianchurch.org
METHODIST
Helena Methodist Church
Head Pastor: Rev. Rusty Tate 2035 Highway 58 (205) 663-0111 Helenamethodist.org
Church at Cahaba Bend
Lead Pastor: Rev. Patrick Friday 3721 Hwy 52 West (205) 621-8060 Cahababend.org
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Open Door Independent Church
120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963
Opendooral.com
The Cornerstone Church
Lead Pastor: Timothy Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332
Cornerstonechurchhelena.org
New Vision Christian Church
Senior Pastor: Van C. Houser 2383 Highway 95 (205) 919-6678
Nvcc4god.org
The Rock Church
Head Pastor: Bryan Van Gieson 501 2nd Avenue West (205) 358-7625
Rockofbirmingham.org
The Voice of Faith International Ministries
Head Pastor: Franklin Kirksey 1560 Cunningham Drive (205) 663-7396
PRESBYTERIAN
Harmony Church of Helena
Head Pastor: Scott Edwards 3396 Helena Road (205) 663-2174
Harmonychurchofhelena.net
Christ Community Church
Pastors: Phil Chambers and David Cunningham 2222 Highway 52 (205) 881-4222
ChristCommunity.net
Helena Methodist Church
Grace Christian Church
City Hall Faces
Summer Honeycutt
Police Dispatcher
Having a dangerous situation that you need help with is never a situation that you want to be in. However, if you need the assistance of the police department, the person you are probably calling is Summer Honeycutt. Honeycutt is tasked with dispatching Helena’s police officers to various locations across the city to help those in need of help, assisting on anything from car wrecks to domestic situations or even more severe cases. Honeycutt has been working in Helena for two years, but lives in Alabaster and is a graduate of Thompson High School. She attended college at the University of Montevallo and was on the archery and shotgun team.
She enjoys getting to be an avenue of comfort and cooperation with those in need, but also enjoys how tight she is with her coworkers in a job that can be quite hectic.
“My favorite part about my job is helping everyone who calls into the Police Department,” Honeycutt said. “The best thing about working for Helena is the great relationship that you build with your coworkers. We are more a family than coworkers.”
Outside of work, Honeycutt loves being out and about with her dog Remi, going to the waterfall in the city to let him swim, have fun and play fetch.
Helena Market Days in search of volunteers
BY TYLER RALEY
PHOTO BY JEREMY RAINES
Helena Market Days is attempting to cultivate a number of dedicated community members willing to donate their time and efforts to cooperatively contribute toward the city’s prized farmer’s market.
The organization seeks to combat recent low meeting turnouts and aims to recruit volunteers that are passionate toward the continuation and betterment of Helena’s seasonal market, which occurs weekly from the first Saturday of June until the last Saturday in July.
Organizers are encouraging all who are interested to reach out and hope that anyone willing to collaborate on fresh ideas to enhance the market experience will lend a neighborly hand.
“If you know of anyone looking for volunteer opportunities, please encourage them to do so,”
said Kelly Morgan, who works with Helena Market Days and also sits on the Helena Economic Development Board.
While the actual days for the event are still a couple of months away, Helena Market Days, much like every city event, requires months of advanced planning and background work to deliver the days of community fellowship that have become one of the city’s most valued trademarks.
Primarily designed to raise involvement, Helena Market Days asks that anyone interested to feel free to propose potential innovations and initiatives for the upcoming market season
Those who are interested, or who would like to learn more about Helena Market Days are also encouraged to contact event organizers at Helenamarketday@gmail.com.
THE CENTENNIAL
Helena Elementary School celebrates 100 years of growth and excellence
BY TYLER RALEY
PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES AND ADAM SHORT
OOne of the most common traditions around the world is that when a person celebrates another trip around the sun, those around them sing, “Happy Birthday.” Even when it’s not a person, but instead a business or an institution, some sort of celebration is thrown.
However, when that celebration count comes to the number 100, it takes on a special meaning of recognizing a history of excellence and the roots from which it grew from.
Helena Elementary School joins the century club in April, and while everyone in the city knows the school for what it looks like today, what many do not realize is the fact that the school is rooted
in the same place that it was when it was built in 1924.
For first-year principal Rebecca Laney, while she may be new to the school, the opportunity to be involved in a special event for a school that has reached its 100th year holds a lot of value, especially considering the school set the stage for Helena’s future growth.
“It’s truly special to be part of an event with deep roots in Helena’s history,” Laney said. “HES—now joined by Helena Intermediate, Helena Middle and Helena High School—has long been the heart and pride of our community, drawing many families to Helena for its schools.
Honoring those who came before us is a privilege, and we hope it inspires everyone to continue celebrating HES for years to come.”
One of those who came before her and played a substantial role in the school’s history is current Helena City Council President Alice Lobell, who served as the first art teacher of HES beginning in 1990.
Although retired from the position, Lobell still enjoys giving back to a place that played host to a special time in her life, and feels grateful for what she embedded in the legacy of the school.
“It warms my heart,” Lobell said. “The school, the whole community, I just love it. I love going back to that school. They’re still a big part of me, and I’m very proud of the fact that I started the art department there.”
With all of the history that the school holds, Lobell touched back on some of the vision that had come with the development of the city of Helena, which could not have been done without the opportunities that the elementary school had brought.
“Sonny Penhale, who was the mayor when I moved here, his vision was that he wanted Helena to have their own high school,” Lobell said. “He
really pushed for housing development during his time there because he knew if we had the population, then Shelby County would let us have our own school.”
Lobell went on to discuss that that vision that Penhale had was one of the many great visions that came in Helena’s early stages as a city, including that of the elementary school 100 years ago, relating it back to the railroads that were built in the 1800s and how it made Helena, Helena.
“In 1924, for them to build a school that big, to me that said whoever was running the city then had a vision for the city,” Lobell said. “I feel like that most of us in public office kind of still have that same vision of keeping that hometown feel.”
One thing that is true about any city is that change is inevitable, and for the previous 100 years, Helena Elementary has experienced that. However, while the school has carried out renovations and additions, it has still maintained the charm as it continues sitting in the same location as when it was built.
“That building, to me, I’m so glad that Shelby County hasn’t torn it down,” Lobell said. “It’s because they had to spend money because our
community got so big, they had to build schools.”
In essence, the elementary school that the city knows and loves today is still there because the city had a vision. From the railroad tracks to the elementary school, and now to the intermediate, middle and high schools, Helena had a vision to continue expanding to be a residential and flourishing city. For the last 100 years, Helena Elementary School has played a massive part in that.
The school carries the history of all of the families who have been through it, and according to Laney, that is why it still has its charm.
“While the building has its challenges, its history and charm make it feel warm and welcoming,” Laney said. “The stone wall, the arch at the front entrance and both the old and new red bricks are iconic symbols of the Helena community. However, the true heart of Helena Elementary School comes from the generations of students and parents who have been part of its story.”
Happy Anniversary
Helena Elementary School
While she is still new to the school, Laney understands how much meaning the elementary school has brought to the community, making it unique and very special compared to other schools.
“What makes Helena so special is the strong sense of connection,” Laney said. “You can’t talk about Helena without mentioning Helena Elementary School—it’s woven into everyone’s
story. This community is built on resilience and hard work. From its beginnings as a mining town to surviving a devastating tornado and thriving despite having no major highway frontage, Helena’s strength and spirit endure.”
If it were not for all of the tight bonds that residents and families associated with Helena Elementary School have, where would this beginning-level educational institute be?
“This school thrives because of the incredible support from the district, parents and the community. Parents are always hands-on, helping with everything from playground equipment to technology. The number of volunteers at any given time is truly a blessing.”
- REBECCA LANEY
Laney knows it would not be anywhere close to what it is now, as all the moving parts currently help the school to run smoothly in its historical roots.
“This school thrives because of the incredible support from the district, parents and the community,” Laney said. “Parents are always hands-on, helping with everything from playground equipment to technology. The number of volunteers at any given time is truly a blessing—
they clean, paint, decorate, pressure wash, plant and landscape, wash windows, read to students, shelve books, deliver materials and care for faculty and staff in countless ways. The generosity of the community provides both funding and volunteers, and other schools, especially Helena High School, send students to mentor and support our young learners.”
So, while the Helena community and the entirety of Helena Elementary School will be
celebrating into the night due to all of the accomplishments that they had leading up to the special event, they hope that the legacy it held 100 years ago will carry on into the next 100 years, and that that future will be very bright.
“I believe the students here today will cherish their time at Helena Elementary and have stories to share for years to come,” Laney said. “Many of their own children will likely walk these halls one day. Understanding our roots helps guide our future, and I hope this school continues to grow and evolve while holding onto the heart of the little country school it once was.”
Helena Elementary School may be 100 years old, but in reality, it is 100 years young and still chugging along like it was on day one.
Years ago, few people even knew Helena existed, yet it was special then, just as it is now,” Laney said. “And with dedication from teachers, faculty, staff, students and parents, there’s no doubt it will remain special for another 100 years.”
WELL RESTED
Sleep in Heavenly Peace provides kids in need a bed they did not have before
BY TYLER RALEY
PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES AND CONTRIBUTED
wWhen the sun sets and the moon rises, most people around the world clean up their residence before settling in and going to bed, closing their eyes shut and falling asleep to the peace and quiet of the night in their bed.
Not everyone gets that luxury though, and for many kids, that feeling is uncomfortable and causes the uncertainty of how much sleep they really will get.
Luckily, people in the United States recognize this major issue that faces society in today’s world. They want a solution to the problem, and now, there is one they can lean on—Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a national 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that builds and delivers twin and bunk beds to children who do not have the privilege of sleeping in one, and was founded by Luke and Heidi Mickelson in 2012 in Twin Falls, Idaho.
Since its inception, the organization has expanded to have chapters that reach out to every corner of the country and are found in nearly every state.
The Sleep in Heavenly Peace Birmingham South Chapter began in April 2022 and was started by Jerry and Carolyn Murray.
Sparked by a major interest in the cause that
the organization provides, the Murrays wanted to jump in on the process of starting the chapter, ultimately heading out of town for training to be a part of the solution.
When Helena residents Norman and Peggy Wilkins heard about this, they did not hesitate to jump on board, as they had already participated in a similar experience prior to joining Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
In 2020, the Wilkins visited St. Petersburg, Florida, where their daughter was involved in a bed building mission at her local church. Hearing about this, the Wilkins participated in a bed build, and to Norman, it sparked a hope that they could do something just like it back at home.
“I just came back with a sense of, ‘Man, I would really like to try to see if we could get something like this off the ground here in Birmingham,” Wilkins said.
As a result, they quickly joined the Murrays when the Birmingham South chapter was started, and have carried that same enjoyment ever since.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace delivers beds to kids in need ages 3-17. After someone applies for a bed through the national website, Shpbeds.org, volunteers vet the applicants to determine whether or not they meet the criteria for a bed to be delivered. Birmingham South SHP serves families in many of the zip codes of southern Jefferson County and now the Helena zip code as well. The chapter provides beds for the children of single parents, grandparents raising grandchildren and foster parents. The motto of SHP is “no kid sleeps on the floor in our town.”
Once accepted, they get put on a weekly delivery schedule, which Norman and Peggy assist with.
“Every day that we deliver beds, we leave wherever we’ve gone feeling so humbled and so grateful for what we’ve been blessed with because we see how people live. Peggy and I just keep reminding ourselves, ‘It’s not about the adults, it’s about the kids.’"
- REBECCA LANEY
The Birmingham South Chapter plays host to three delivery teams, one of those led by Norman and Peggy. Each week, the three teams head out to their respective locations, where they will deliver approximately 12 to 15 beds to various kids of different ages and genders.
The teams prepare by heading over to their storage unit and pick out what they believe is appropriate bedding for the particular children they are delivering to, as well as all of the bed parts that are necessary.
“Let’s say I need six singles and one bunk bed,” Wilkins said. “I’ll take all those particular headboards and footboards and siderails and slats that we put together at our bed builds, and put them in the truck. I’ll bring them home and then Peggy and I will go through the bedding,
we’ll put them in separate bags for each location.”
On the day of the deliveries, the teams head out and do the fun part: setting the beds up for the kids.
In just 20 or 30 minutes, the teams unload the beds from their truck, head inside to the room where the bed is going and lay all the hardware down before placing the mattress and accessories, making for a quick and efficient process while also showing a lot of care to the job.
For the Wilkins and many other delivery teams around the country, they’ve become so popular that kids that they’ve previously delivered to will see them and run to hug them, eagerly asking to help them get the beds out for another kid that needs it.
Norman recalled the story of the day he got to deliver a bed to Helena, signifying how the emotions of setting up a piece of furniture for a child, like a bed, bring him and his wife much joy during every delivery day.
“Every day that we deliver beds, we leave wherever we’ve gone feeling so humbled and so grateful for what we’ve been blessed with because we see how people live,” Wilkins said. “Peggy and I just keep reminding ourselves, ‘It’s not about the adults, it’s about the kids.’ If we can get these kids sleeping better, if we can get them feeling good about themselves or whatever that would help them in school, then who knows what this does for a child?”
Schools, churches, businesses and civic organizations can sponsor a bed build or bedding drive. New twin size comforters, pillows and
bed-in-a-bag sets are currently needed. SHP volunteers like the Wilkins arrive at bed builds around 6:30 a.m. to get chop saws, drills, sanders, stain tanks and branding irons set up by the time the host group volunteers arrive at 9 a.m.
Once the host organization volunteers arrive, they are shown how to build headboards, siderails, etc. by the Birmingham South SHP Core Team. A typical build lasts for 3 ½ hours as 20-50 beds are built, stained and branded with the Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) logo. For more information on sponsoring a bed build or bedding drive, contact Jerry.murray@shpbeds. org or Carolyn.murray@shpbeds.org.
For Norman, he feels that the entire process is rewarding, as all the hours put into it result in an emotional reaction that is matched by few
actions.
“Building the beds is fun because I love working with my hands, but seeing the finished products go into a house and seeing the smiles on these kids’ faces, it makes our day,” Wilkins said. “It’s a great feeling to walk out of a house and know you’ve met a need like that.”
“The Murrays dedicated themselves to doing this and starting this and they’ve watched time and time and time again, God provide volunteers and corporations and companies and donations,” Wilkins said. “Their dedication to this ministry is selfless. I can’t imagine how many hours they put in.”
Both the Murrays and the Wilkins hope that they can continue to grow this chapter and bring more people in, knowing how valuable their volunteers are with every bed build and delivery.
“I can think of one word— unmeasured,” Wilkins said. “Just to see all the people that have selfless hearts and the time that they dedicate to do this stuff is pretty incredible to behold.”
Donning the crown
FOR THE MAGAZINE/LARRY DANCY AND CONTRIBUTED
Students from across Helena donned their pageant dresses and put their best foot forward at the annual Miss HHS and Little Miss Helena pageants that took place at Helena High School in January and February.
Crossing the plate
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
The Helena varsity softball team made a trip to Calera High School to take on the Calera Eagles, taking down the county foe 9-1 on Feb. 26 to cap off the month of February on a high note.
KICKING IT
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
Helena High School’s soccer teams participated in the 2025 Warrior Invitational at Thompson High School, playing a combined five games over the course of three days.
Swing batter batter
The Helena baseball team hosted the Oak Mountain Eagles in a mid-week county showdown on March 4 at Helena High School that brought the best out of both teams.
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Electrical Engineering Analyst at Southern Company
Christmas Parade
Deck the Halls
Being able to attend the city’s Christmas parade each year is a highlight of the holiday season. With all of the lights, music and the people coming together to celebrate the festivities, it makes for a great way to spend some time as a family and take in everything.
School Organizations
Supporting Family
Helena High School athletic events have always been something we make a point to attend. Our three daughters are majorettes in Helena’s marching band, while one of our cousins plays on the high school basketball team. They are very fun to be at and we enjoy supporting our family in the process.
The Trails
Enjoying the Fresh Air
We love walking our dog Kanan on the trails in Riverwoods and Old Cahaba. Being able to enjoy the nature of the city and have fun with our four-legged friend make this that much more enjoyable to do when we get the opportunity.
Helena Beauty
Taking in the Views
Helena has many places that are pleasing to see. The scenic views and the city’s quaintness are what make Helena, Helena. With the historic and small-town feel, you do not have to go far to feel good about where you are at. You can go nearly any place and stop to take it all in.
P.O. Box 947 • 115 North Main Street
Columbiana, Alabama 35051
Phone: 205-669-3131
