BRING OUT THE DUCKS
GET READY FOR THE BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL
CAN’T STOP CANTLEY
HELENA VOLLEYBALL’S VETERAN MAKES AN IMPACT
CHAMPION JOINS HELENA
MITCH MORELAND TAKES OVER AS HEAD COACH OF
HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL
HELENA
City Leadership
A letter from the mayor
Getting ready to welcome October in the city of Helena
October has arrived, and with it comes one of the busiest, most exciting months of the year for our city. From community festivals to fall sports, special recognitions, and city business, there is so much happening that touches nearly every resident of Helena. I encourage each of you to take part in these opportunities to celebrate, support, and reflect on the unique spirit that makes Helena home.
Mark your calendars for one of our city’s hallmark events—the Buck Creek Festival— returning October 10th and 11th at Amphitheater Park. Each year, this festival draws thousands of people from Helena and beyond, and 2025 promises to be another incredible celebration. Come out and enjoy two full days of live music, a wide array of local vendors, delicious food, and,
of course, the famous duck race that has become a beloved Helena tradition. The festival not only provides family fun, but also raises funds that are reinvested directly back into community projects, so your participation makes a difference.
Fall sports are now at their midway point, and our student-athletes are working hard to finish the season strong. From youth leagues to middle school teams to our Helena High School programs, I encourage everyone to show up and show out for these young athletes. Your presence in the stands means more than you may realize— it gives our kids the support they deserve as they represent Helena with pride. Whether it’s football under the Friday night lights, volleyball, cross country, or youth soccer, let’s make this season memorable for them.
“October is a month that embodies the best of Helena: tradition, community spirit, remembrance, and resilience.”
On Saturday, October 11th, Helena will honor one of its finest citizens with Jack Gray Day. Jack dedicated over four decades of his life to volunteering in our community and was instrumental in shaping Helena into the place we love today. His legacy of service and love for this city is one that will be remembered for generations. I invite all residents to join us as we celebrate his contributions and honor the lasting impact he made on our community.
As a reminder—since the questions are sure to start rolling in—Trick or Treating in Helena will, as always, be on Halloween night itself. This year, October 31st falls on a Friday, making it an especially festive evening for families. After enjoying Trick or Treating, I encourage you to make your way up to The Hill for the last Helena Huskies home football game of the regular season. What better way to round out a great night than by cheering on our team under the lights?
a new fiscal year budget before the year began. This unprecedented decision has significant ramifications for our ability to grow and meet the needs of our residents. Without an approved budget, the city cannot bring on additional first responders, expand services, or undertake projects beyond baseline operations.
Mayor Brian Puckett
Finally, I must address an important matter affecting our city operations. For the first time in Helena’s history, the City Council did not pass
Together As One,
As your Mayor, I take seriously my duty to present a balanced budget for review. I did so, and while the Council has the authority to make modifications, the process fell short of approval this year. This is not the path I believe best serves our city, but we will continue working to find a resolution that ensures Helena remains financially sound and positioned for the future.
October is a month that embodies the best of Helena: tradition, community spirit, remembrance, and resilience. I hope you will join in the many opportunities to engage with your neighbors, honor our history, and celebrate the vibrant life we share here in Helena. Together, we can continue to make this city a place we are all proud to call home.
- Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena
In this issue
Chris Willis
Mitch Moreland prepares to guide Helena baseball
The Buck Creek Festival is back
Daniel
Viridiana
Utilities and Services
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
ljoseph@cityofhelena.org
cwillis@ cityofhelena.org
ahealy@ 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
Chris Willis Andy Healy
BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL
OCTOBER 10-11
6-10 P.M., 10 A.M.-8 P.M.
Helena Amphitheater Park
One of Helena’s oldest traditions will be taking place once again this fall. The community will gather for familyfriendly fun, food, music and the iconic duck race.
THE GUIDE
OCTOBER 10
VARSITY FOOTBALL AT PELHAM
7 P.M.
Pelham High School
The Helena High School football team will take on the Pelham Panthers in another edition of the classic rivalry match-up. The Huskies will be looking to extend their winning streak over the Panthers to six on-field meetings.
OCTOBER 9
VARSITY VOLLEYBALL VS. HILLCREST
6 P.M.
Helena High School
The Helena High School volleyball team will wrap up its first regular season under head coach Destinee Briskey at home on Thursday, Oct. 9. Come out and support the Huskies on their senior night.
AROUND TOWN
OCTOBER 2 | 11 A.M.
Storytime at the Library
OCTOBER 2 | 6 P.M. Varsity volleyball at Oak Mountain
OCTOBER 3 | 7 P.M.
Varsity football at Benjamin Russell
OCTOBER 4 | 10 A.M.
Varsity volleyball at MSHS Varsity Round Robin
OCTOBER 7 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
OCTOBER 7 | 6 P.M.
Varsity volleyball at Pelham
OCTOBER 9 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
OCTOBER 9 | 5:30 P.M
Varsity volleyball vs. Hillcrest
OCTOBER 10 | ALL DAY 1st Nine Weeks ends for Helena schools
OCTOBER 10 | 6 P.M. Buck Creek Festival
OCTOBER 10 | 7 P.M. Varsity football at Pelham
OCTOBER 11 | ALL DAY Jack Gray Day
OCTOBER 11 | BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL Buck Creek Festival
OCTOBER 13 | ALL DAY Columbus Day
OCTOBER 13 | ALL DAY
Instructional planning at schools (no students)
OCTOBER 14 | ALL DAY
Instructional planning at schools (no students)
OCTOBER 14 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
OCTOBER 16 | ALL DAY Library Book Sale begins
OCTOBER 16 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
OCTOBER 16 | 6 P.M. Planning and Zoning Committee meeting
OCTOBER 17 | 7 P.M. Varsity football vs. Chelsea
OCTOBER 18 | ALL DAY Library Book Sale ends
OCTOBER 18 | ALL DAY Husky Cross Country Challenge
OCTOBER 21 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
OCTOBER 21 | 7 P.M. High school fall band concert
OCTOBER 22 | 10:30 A.M. Library senior program
OCTOBER 23 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
OCTOBER 24 | 7 P.M. Varsity football vs. Calera
OCTOBER 27 | 6 P.M. City Council Meeting
OCTOBER 28 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
OCTOBER 28 | 4 P.M. Municipal Court
OCTOBER 30 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
OCTOBER 30 | 7 P.M. Varsity football vs. Tarrant
OCTOBER 31 | ALL DAY Halloween
VARSITY FOOTBALL VS. TARRANT
The final regular-season game for the Huskies will take place at home this season. Come out and support them on senior night.
Monday,
October 27
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.
In the News
BILLY ROSENER ELECTED MAYOR OF HELENA
After an 11-month campaign, Billy Rosener has been elected as Helena’s next mayor. He will take over for incumbent Brian Puckett, who decided not to seek reelection after serving one term.
The Helena City Council approved an ordinance to dedicate the day to long-time volunteer and friend Jack Gray, who passed away in May.
CANVASSES RESULTS OF 2025 MUNICIPAL ELECTION
The Helena City Council approved the results of the 2025 Municipal Election during a special-called meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 2, at noon at City Hall.
OVERSOUL BREWING ANNOUNCES PLANS TO CLOSE
After nearly seven years of service, Oversoul Brewing has announced its plans to close at the end of September.
HELENA DECLARES OCT. 11 JACK CLAYTON GRAY DAY
HELENA
STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SOFTBALL TEAM HONORED AT FIRST FOOTBALL GAME
The Huskies were presented with their state championship rings at Helena football’s season opener.
NEW VISION CHRISTIAN CHURCH HOSTS THE ONE EXPLOSION WORSHIP EVENT
New Vision Christian Church hosted The One Explosion worship event, a three-day stretch that will allow people in the community to come together in the name of Jesus.
On the afternoon of Sunday, Aug. 17, the basketball court at the Helena Community Center was filled with tables. Each table was occupied by a team trying to earn bragging rights and bring home the Jigsaw Puzzle Championship.
During the work session preceding the regularly scheduled meeting of the Helena City Council on Monday, Aug. 25, the council heard an update on the Hillsboro Sports and Leisure Park construction project as well as renovations to the existing sports complex.
HELENA HOSTS JIGSAW PUZZLE CHAMPIONSHIP
HELENA HEARS SPORTS COMPLEX PROJECT UPDATE
Update from THE COUNCIL
Chris Willis PLACE 5
As we get into Fall, we get to enjoy the colors of the changing seasons. Likewise, we are embarking on the changing of our local leaders. After a close council race and subsequent runoff, we have a full slate for our new mayor and City Council, who will take office in the coming weeks. I hope that we, as a city, will support our new leaders, and give them an opportunity to learn the workings of our city and wrap their heads around the many different facets that make up a municipal government. We will likely not always agree with the decisions they make, but we need to remember, these elected officials are our neighbors and friends, and most of all, people.
As many of you know, I was appointed to fill a vacancy on the council nearly three years ago. Since my appointment, we have had many changes in our city. We had retirements of several department heads who had served our city for decades, and promoted or hired new department heads to lead these
great parts of our community. We annexed the Indian Ford fire district, which expanded our municipal boundaries and increased our population. We voted to construct a new city hall with a senior citizens center as well as a sports complex for our youth. We passed a one-cent sales tax increase to help pay for these additions and subsequently passed the largest budget in our city’s history, which included additional police officers and firefighters, along with several other positions that are crucial to the everyday amenities that we enjoy as citizens. None of these decisions were easy, but all were what the council thought was in the best interest of our city.
In closing, it has truly been an honor to serve the citizens of this great city. Whether you agree with the decisions that I or this council have made or not, we can all agree that Helena is a great place to live and raise our families. So from the outgoing council, thank you for your support over the last few years, and I look forward to things to come.
Library Update
GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY
AAutumn leaves are falling, and that means it is a great time to find something to read. From young kids starting in school to grown-ups catching up on the latest books, the library is a great place for everyone to visit. As the days grow shorter, be sure to stop in to get a FREE library card or update the one you have. The Library will be closed on Monday, Oct. 13, for Columbus Day.
There are some great events coming up this fall. Back by popular demand is the Helena Library Book Sale.
The sale begins on Thursday, Oct. 16, and runs through Saturday, Oct. 18. Be sure to visit and look for treasures while supporting a great resource, your local public library. Special thanks to all who donated and volunteered for the event.
Library Director
Dan Dearing
The library has a monthly senior program. The theme and activity vary each month, and are enjoyed by all who attend. For October, the senior program is on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at 10:30 a.m.
Shorter days mean more time to read books and to watch movies. Thanks to local residents, the library has an extensive collection of movies for all ages, with new titles arriving weekly. Borrowing items from the library is a great way to save money this fall.
While older kids are at school, for those of you with younger children, the library has two great ways to get your family in the swing of things:
1,000 Books before Kindergarten: Another neat program for younger children. This simple, free program encourages parents to read to their kids frequently and instill a love of reading and 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.
Storytime: For those of you with younger children, check out our storytime. This is a fun event with stories, sing-alongs 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.
October is a busy month in Helena, but remember the library as a great resource for academics and a fun to place to visit for residents of all ages.
Jane B. Holmes Public Library
230 Tucker Road Helena, AL 35080
Phone: (205) 664-8308
Facebook: Helena.Public.Library.Friends
Website: cityofhelena.org/public-library Instagram: @helenalibrary
Please visit the library soon, - Daniel Dearing, library director
October’s Top Picks
SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO
By Fannie Flagg | Adult Fiction
A tapestry of joyful and startling interconnected stories that celebrate how people from all across America cope with adversity and unexpected changes in a confusing world.
THE WIDOW
By John Grisham | Adult Fiction
A small-time lawyer accused of murder races to find the real killer to clear his name.
CRUSH YOUR MONEY GOALS: 25 SMART MONEY HABITS TO SAVE, INVEST AND, FAST-TRACK YOUR FINANCIAL FREEDOM
By Bernadette Joy | Adult Nonfiction
Get ready to Crush Your Money Goals and turn to the power of habits to make lasting financial changes!
THE HOUSE OF FOUND OBJECTS
By Jo Beckett-King | Juvenile
An exciting mystery filled with cryptic clues and wonderful word puzzles as two cousins search for their grandmother’s missing portrait.
DINOMANIA!
By Becky Baines | Juvenile Nonfiction
The ultimate dino face-off, packed with fun facts, epic battles and jaw-dropping comparisons.
COUNT DOWN TO FALL
By Fran Hawk | EASY/PICTURE
Count backwards from 10 to one during one of the most colorful times of year: fall.
Sports
AVERY CANTLEY
Setter
for Helena High School volleyball
How old were you when you started playing volleyball, and what inspired you to start?
I started playing volleyball when I was 11. It was fun because it was different from any other sports I had played, and I also enjoyed being with my friends.
Has there ever been a coach or mentor who made a huge impact on you? What did they teach you?
I wanted to I have played for many different coaches over the years, and they all have helped shape me into a better player and person. My coach from NASA, Milea Ray-Pruitt, has played a big role in my life and volleyball. She helped me to believe in myself even when I didn’t, and never gave up on me. She made me realize that I have value no matter what happens on the court.
What is your favorite thing about playing volleyball for the Huskies?
My favorite things about playing volleyball for Helena are representing my school and playing with my friends. We have a good time and enjoy being together.
What is your favorite volleyball memory?
My favorite volleyball memory is playing Nationals in Orlando, Florida this summer. I loved the girls and coaches, and we had fun together on and off the court.
When you’re not in school or playing sports, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends outside of volleyball. I’m an active member of the student ministry at The Station Church. I love to fish and hunt with my Dad. I am a member of a few different organizations at school, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and Peer Helpers. I’m also a member of the Helena Teen Council and enjoy volunteering for my community.
Education
ALLISON MIDDENDORF
Social studies teacher at Helena Middle School
First, tell me more about yourself.
I am originally from Marietta, GA, outside of metro Atlanta, and moved to Birmingham to attend Samford University in 2020. I majored in secondary education and history, and I absolutely loved my experience there. This is my second year teaching sixth grade social studies at Helena Middle School and my first year as our SGA advisor.
Can you tell me about your career in education?
I wanted to become a teacher because of my own middle and high school teachers. My teachers were kind, empathetic and challenged me to be both a better student and person. They taught me that it is okay to fail and helped me cultivate a lifelong love for learning.
What kind of impact do the students you teach have on your life as a teacher?
My students have all made me a better person. They challenge me to see each student as an individual with their own gifts and talents to bring to class. It is such an honor to celebrate each of their exciting moments and be with them during the tough ones. I am so grateful to have a career that I walk through the doors every morning excited to see my students.
What makes working with middle school students special?
I absolutely love working with middle school students! I remember middle school being a difficult time for me when I was growing up, and I always knew I wanted to end up teaching middle school. Middle school students are so fun and silly, but are also open to having the more difficult conversations when it comes to studying history.
What has been your favorite thing about working at Helena Middle over the course of your time?
My coworkers and the students have been my favorite part of working at Helena Middle School. Everyone has been so welcoming to me. Being from out of state, I don’t have any family in the area, but my coworkers have become like a second family to me. They guided me through my first year of teaching last year, and many have even helped me outside of school with car issues. My students are always telling me the best places to grab a bite to eat and fun events around the community.
Do you have a message you would like to say to the Helena community?
I would like to thank the Helena Community for welcoming me into their wonderful town. The community here is so special and has become a home away from home. I’m so grateful to the parents and guardians who have entrusted me to teach & love their students.
Meet Your Neighbor
The Howard Family
Helena continues to be viewed as an outstanding place to raise a family, and that is something the Howards could not agree with more.
Isaac and Kendall Howard picked Helena as the place to raise their children after falling in love with the local charm, close-knit community and excellent schools the city offers.
They have two children, Kaiden, a seventh-grader at Helena Middle School and Connor, a third-grader at Helena
Intermediate School.
Isaac is a pest control technician for Farmer’s Pest Control and Kendall is the director of accounting for Graham and Co.
The Howards enjoy community events such as the Buck Creek Festival and Oktoberfest and love to spend time together at Gobbler’s Knob during the summer. They are active members of The Station Church.
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
J.R. Spitzer
Firefighter/Paramedic for Helena Fire Department
For the last five years, J.R. Spitzer has served the city of Helena as a firefighter and paramedic for the fire department.
Spitzer responds to 911 calls, including medical incidents, fires, accidents and other situations that could impact someone’s life or health. He also studies to keep his skills and abilities sharp and prioritizes maintaining the department’s equipment to the best of his ability. Spitzer has been serving as a firefighter and paramedic for 13 years, originally starting his career in Millbrook. He has known this was the career for him since conducting
ground search and rescue missions as a cadet in the Civil Air Patrol as a teenager.
Spitzer acknowledged the extensive mentorship he has received throughout his career, allowing him to learn how to effectively do his job and stay in shape physically. “What’s continually kept me the most motivated throughout my career is that we get to see the difference we make in the lives of our citizens in real time,” Spitzer said. “There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing that our actions truly helped someone out during their most urgent time of need.”
MAJOR LEAGUE HIRE
The Huskies are entering a new era under the leadership of Mitch Moreland
BY DANIEL LOCKE
PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES, CONTRIBUTED BY BOSTON RED SOX
FFor the first time since Helena High School opened in 2014, the baseball program needed a new head coach. Who did the Huskies turn to? A 12-year MLB first baseman who won a Gold Glove and a World Series championship.
When the sun rises on opening day of the Huskies’ 2026 campaign, they will be under the leadership of Mitch Moreland, who played for the Texas Rangers and Boston Red Sox, where he earned his Gold Glove in 2016 and was part of the team that won the 2018 World Series, before finishing with that San Diego Padres and Oakland Athletics.
After his playing career came to an end in
2021, Moreland’s life had a hole in it. The game that everything had revolved around was absent, and it needed to play a role once again.
“I’ve been out of the game for a couple years, and really the last year or two, got to where I missed it a lot,” Moreland said. “I missed just being around the boys and the field in general. I’ve coached my kids, which are a younger age group, a good bit over the last few years, and that’s been fun, but it’s just something about the competitive side of it. Being able to be around the game in a little more advanced setting that I was missing.”
Moreland is not a completely new face to the
Helena High baseball program or the community. He moved to Helena along with his wife Susannah, a Shelby County native who grew up in Columbiana, and children Crue, Swayze and Ledger before his career in the majors came to an end.
He has volunteered with the baseball program previously, and when the opportunity to lead it presented itself, he felt the timing was right.
“I volunteered last year with Helena and had a blast with that,” Moreland said. “This happened fast here, but the job came open here in Helena, which is where we live and what we call home. We’re pretty rooted in the community, and obviously, I was excited about having a chance to take over and try to change these boys’ lives by creating good young men and good ball players.”
The Morelands were drawn to Helena by a similar aspect of the city that has led to countless other families calling it home over the years: the small-town feel mixed with outstanding schools and a tight-knit community.
“Probably The Depot, the waterfall, everything Helena is as far as a small town goes,” Moreland said. “We love the people here, we love the community. It’s a great place to raise a family. We have three kids here, and two of them are in the school system, my wife teaches here. We’re pretty involved and just love being here.”
Helena has enjoyed a good amount of success in the 11 seasons since the program began. Now, it’s under the leadership of someone who has a better understanding of what success looks like in the sport than just about anyone.
As of 2025, only 151 of the 351 members of the National Baseball
Hall of Fame have earned a World Series ring. For any player to have that opportunity is a massive accomplishment.
“There are really no words you can put to winning a World Series,” Moreland said. “There are probably four things I’ve done in my life that beat that: marrying my wife and the birth of my kids. Winning the World Series is a completely different feel. I spent my whole life trying to get to that point. I feel like that’s the pinnacle of baseball, playing in the major leagues and being on a great team and having that opportunity. I
was very fortunate to have the opportunity to play in three and to win one. There’s no way to describe it. It’s pretty special.”
Moreland’s experience as a veteran in the MLB, where he was responsible for helping young players adjust to the game at that level, gives him valuable insight into effective coaching techniques, something he plans to take advantage of with the Huskies.
“I feel like when I got to the major leagues, I had a lot to learn about the game,” Moreland said. “Turning from that young rookie into a
“Turning from that young rookie into a veteran guy that young guys came to and leaned on, I always enjoyed that mentorship role. I love that as much as I did playing the game at the end. The fact that the guys respected me enough to listen to what I had to say, it’s a different feeling and something I really enjoyed. I think that’s something I can carry into this coaching role.”
veteran guy that young guys came to and leaned on, I always enjoyed that mentorship role. I love that as much as I did playing the game at the end. The fact that the guys respected me enough to listen to what I had to say, it’s a different feeling and something I really enjoyed. I think that’s something I can carry into this coaching role. There’s no greater calling than that. There’s no better way to give back, and that’s something I’m really excited about.”
Moreland learned a lot throughout his baseball
career, but one of the most important lessons was how to handle adversity.
From problems that come up on the field to things his players will deal with after their time on the diamond comes to an end, instilling that ability to overcome tough circumstances into his players is a priority for Moreland.
“I’m huge on adversity and just figuring out a way to keep pushing forward,” Moreland said. “The adversity fight this game teaches you, you deal with that in everyday life. One thing I’ve
noticed being out is how much the game helped me prepare for stuff off the field. If I can give the guys a head start on that, that’ll be a win for us. I just want them to be ready to take on what life throws at them.”
While he plans on incorporating some of the ways he was coached as a major leaguer into Helena’s day-to-day routine, he understands he is dealing with a different level of players. Despite their age, Moreland will have a high standard for his team.
Additionally, he is prepared for the learning process that is to come with coaching high school ball for the first time and is confident his players will respond well, even if it comes with some adversity.
“I think we’re going to have to be a little more fundamental in some ways, but I will also be holding these guys accountable and treating them like men from an early age,” Moreland said. “I’m going to ask them to grow up and mature quicker than they might need to, but it’s for the right reasons, and I’m looking forward to seeing how they take it. I’ll be learning with them, it’s a new experience for me as well. It’ll be a transition for us, and hopefully we can make it
as smooth as possible.”
One of the biggest on-field lessons Moreland learned as a player is the importance of preparation. He believes his job, and that of his assistants, is to put his players in a position where they have encountered any situation that could pop up as many times as possible during practice.
“I always prided myself in being prepared, preparation is key,” Moreland said. “Whatever situation you get in during a game, if you’ve already covered that in game speed at practice, I feel like you’re going to be ahead of the curve. The more times you can make that play or succeed in that situation, the better and calmer your team is going to be. If you can play the game with a slow heartbeat, you can win a lot.”
As Helena enters a new era under Moreland, the community will have a chance to watch a team coached by a player who had success at the highest level. From game preparation to life preparation, he plans to make a lasting impact in the program.
Moreland enjoys calling Helena home, and he is eager to impact it the best way he knows how: on the diamond.
BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL PREVIEW
OCTOBER 10-11, 2025
HELENA’S BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL WILL BE HELD ON OCT. 10-11 AT HELENA’S AMPHITHEATRE PARK, RIGHT ON
BY DANIEL LOCKE
PHOTOS BY FILE
HELENA – Buck Creek will soon be filled with a large number of rubber ducks as one of Helena’s most beloved traditions is set for Oct. 10-11.
The Buck Creek Festival provides an opportunity for Helena residents and visitors alike to shop from local vendors, enjoy products from various food trucks and listen to live music, all in addition to the famous duck race, which was named after longtime volunteer Jack Gray, who passed away in May.
“Jack’s presence will be missed,” said Buck Creek Festival President JoAnna Harman. “He served on the original team, and even after retiring, he never missed coming by the festival, and we loved getting to see his smiling face. He even won the first-place prize in the Duck Race in 2021.”
The festival will open with a performance by Southtown Revival on Friday at 6 p.m. The ’77 Experience will close out the night with a set that will begin at 8 p.m.
The live music will resume at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Swamp Poppas will kick off the day. The Helena High School Jazz Band will take the stage at 11:45 a.m., followed by Margeaux and The Cat’s Meow at 1:15 p.m., Erin Black at 3:15 p.m., The Only’s at 4:00 p.m. and CashBack will close out the festival at 6 p.m.
The Jack Gray Memorial Duck Race will begin at 3 p.m. Thousands of rubber ducks will be released at the top of the dam and float over the waterfall.
The event is free, but those interested in participating in the duck race will need to purchase tickets. All funds raised will be donated to local charities and given back
THE CREEK’S BANKS.
to the community.
“We cannot wait to welcome everyone back to Helena’s Buck Creek Festival,” said Buck Creek Festival Vice President Crystal McLoughlin. “After a year apart, it feels incredible to gather once more by the creek to listen to great music, cheer on the duck race and see families enjoying all the fun. This year’s festival is going to be our best one yet—full of heart, community and hometown pride. It’s more than just a festival, it’s the heartbeat of our community. Watching Helena come together to create lasting memories, supporting local charities, filling the grounds with laughter, music and creativity, there’s nothing quite like it.”
Food vendors that will be present at the festival include BG’s Mini Donuts, Corn King, El Tejano, Kona Ice, Moe and Moore’s BBQ, Momo Cajun Eatz, Nettie B’s Grill, T and A Ohano Lemonade, Uncle G’s Pizza
Food Truck and Venice Gelato.
“It is such an honor to attempt to carry on the tradition of a festival that has been a part of our community for over 20 years,” Harman said. “It is a labor of love for all of us on the committee. We take pride in working on each aspect in the year that we spend planning. The payoff is seeing the community coming through those gates and having a good time. We have a great group of vendors, volunteers and musicians that make it such a success.”
2025 Festival Schedule
FRIDAY, OCT. 10
HOURS ARE 6-10 P.M.
SATURDAY, OCT. 12
HOURS ARE 10 A.M.
UNTIL 8 P.M.
JACK GRAY MEMORIAL
DUCK RACE
SATURDAY, OCT. 12 3 P.M.
2025 Festival Lineup
FRIDAY, OCT. 11
6 P.M. SOUTHTOWN REVIVAL
8 P.M. THE ’77 EXPERIENCE
SATURDAY, OCT. 12
10 A.M. SWAMP POPPAS
11:45 A.M. HHS JAZZ BAND
1:15 P.M. MARGEAUX AND THE CAT’S MEOW
3:00 P.M. THE JACK GRAY MEMORIAL DUCK RACE
3:15 P.M. ERIN BLACK
4:00 P.M. THE ONLYS
6:00 P.M. CASHBACK
2025 Media Sponsors
MEDIA SPONSORS
SHELBY COUNTY NEWSMEDIA, INC./HELENA – THE MAGAZINE
WBRC FOX 6
PRESENTING
CITY OF HELENA COCA-COLA
DISCOVER SHELBY
GULF DISTRIBUTING
VULCAN
PATRON
CENTRAL STATE BANK
OFFICIAL
BRIAN D HAYES
CAHABA DENTAL ARTS
CHICK-FIL-A
EL TEJANO
ESSENTIAL SOLUTIONS
LEGACY INSURANCE
MOMO CAJUN EATZ
SOUL STORY THERAPY
ACTIVITY
US ARMY
BOSWORTH & ASSOCIATES
CEDAR CREEK
EDWARD JONES
ORTHO SOUTH
BAPTIST HEALTH
2025 Festival Vendors
FOOD
BG’S MINI DONUTS
CORN KING
EL TEJANO
KONA ICE
MOE AND MOORES BBQ
MOMO CAJUN EATZ
NETTIE B’S GRILL
T AND A OHANA MADE LEMONADE
UNCLE G’S PIZZA FOOD TRUCK
VENICE GELATO
INFO
ALABAMA MINERAL SPRINGS
ALABAMA PAINTBALL
ALLISON GOOCH- ACADEMY
TRAVEL
AVADIAN CREDIT UNION
BARK MOUNTAIN RESORT
BROCKS GAP EYE CARE
C & D HOME SOLUTIONS
CAHABA RIVER KEEPER
FRESH AIR CONCEPTS
HARMONY CHURCH OF HELENA
HELENA HOUSE OF PRAYER
HELENA LIBRARY
HELENA MOUNTAIN BIKE TEAM
JOSH BUTLER
LEAF GUARD
LEAFFILTER
OLD TOWN MUSIC
ORTHOSOUTH
PRECISION CHIROPRACTIC
REMAX PREFERRED
RENEWAL BY ANDERSON
SOUTHERN INDUSTRIES HOME
IMPROVEMENT
STEP AHEAD FINANCE
THE OAK MOUNTAIN DENTURE AND IMPLANT CENTER
RETAIL
2 BAD DOGS LLC
A BIT OF HONEY ARTISANAL POTTERY
ASHLEY & NICOLE CREATIONS
AVON, ALICE PITTS AMBASSADOR
B&C WOODCRAFTERS
BEARS TIE DYES
BECK’S BLISSFUL BITES
BUCK CREEK WOODWORKS
BUNGY JUMP BY HAPPENINGS
BURKWOOD FOREST
CAJUN CABOCHONS
CANDY MAYER ART
CHARMED BY CAMERAH
CROCHETED SUN
DAVID’S STAPLE ART
DOLCE VITA CANDLE CO
DOUBLE PLAY CROCHET
EXCEPTIONAL BAITS
G & G LOFT BOUTIQUE
GRATEFUL LOTUS
GREEN THUMB GUILLEN
GWEN’S SNACKY SHACK
HAZEL & SAGE
J & D PRODUCE
JDL 3D PRINTING AND MORE
KACEE J DESIGNS
LAMARI BOUTIQUE
LOADED TEA MAMA
MAMA’S TEES
MASQUERADE FACE PAINT
MEL’S PICKS
MJ DESIGNS
PDPRINTS
RAPIDO FURIOSA
RETROMAN VINTAGE
RESTORATION ANGEL
ROCK CREEK BOUTIQUE
SEPTEMBER RAE
SOUTHERN TUMBLER DESIGN
SOUTHERN WOOD CRAFTS
STITCHED GRACE DESIGN
SWEET HOME SCONES
TAYLORMADE CLOTHING
THE BROWN BAKER
THE SMOCKING SISTERS
TOGETHER WE CREATE
TWO L’S CREATIONS
ZAY PERFUMED OILS LLC
Marching Huskies
The Helena High School Marching Band is an important piece of Helena’s game day atmosphere. From the stand tunes to the field show, no football game is complete without the hard-working band.
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
Serves Up!
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
The Helena High School volleyball team has returned to the court for another year of action, beginning a new era under the leadership of head coach Destinee Briskey. Come out and support the Huskies
Huskies take the field!
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
The Helena High School football team has returned to the field and is aiming to put on a show for the community each and every time they step under the Friday night lights. Supporting the Huskies is a great way to get involved with the community.
HELENA HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
The Helena High School marching band participated in the annual Shelby County Showcase of Bands on Sept. 9. The marching Huskies had the opportunity to perform their field show and enjoy the shows of other bands in the county.
1. Emma Davis.
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5. Londyn Taylor and Anna O’Shaughnessy.
6. Gabby Grooms and Avelyn Helms.
7. Riley Strickland and Axel Navarrete.
8. Tanner Allander, Alexandros Chingas and Kenadie Fuller.
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MY HELENA
KAYLA THOMPSON
Senior at Helena High School
Buck Creek
Helena has no shortage of good views, Buck Creek is no exception I enjoy the Buck Creek scenery and going to the Buck Creek Festival with my friends.
Teen Council
Gaining leadership skills I have recently been inducted into the Helena Teen Council, where I have been able to meet wonderful people and help serve Helena in more ways than just school projects.
Excellent schools
Learning with a purpose I love Helena’s schools, having been in the school system consistently since kindergarten. I’m now in multiple leadership positions, such as the SGA, serving as secretary.
Serving others
Giving back to the community
Besides serving as SGA secretary, I am also involved in peer helpers, ambassadors and multiple honor societies. I find so much enjoyment in being able to attend a Blue Ribbon School and being a part of the organizations it has. I strongly strive to innovate and help make school culture better, along with being a good friend to other students to help uplift and encourage. I believe Helena has helped structure and shape my mindset and supplied me with all the tools necessary to help strive for greatness.
HELENA
P.O.
Phone: 205-669-3131
