CLASS IN SESSION
HELENA STUDENTS RETURN TO SCHOOL
TO THE SHOW
RICHARD FITTS MAKES DEBUT IN THE MLB
TAKE THE FIELD
HELENA NATIVE ROSS TOLBERT ENTERS FOURTH YEAR AS DRUM MAJOR AT AUBURN
City Leadership
A letter from the mayor
Mayor Puckett reflects on summer and previews fall in the city of Helena
As we enter September, I hope this letter finds you and your family well and settling into the rhythm of the new school year. By the time you are reading this, our community will have already made important decisions in the recent elections. Some of our neighbors have stepped forward to serve, and I want to extend a warm welcome and congratulations to our newly elected officials. Public service is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I look forward to working alongside each of you in continuing to shape Helena’s bright future. For those races headed to a runoff, I encourage all citizens to stay engaged, informed, and active at the polls. Your vote is your voice, and Helena is strongest when our residents are fully involved.
School is now back in full swing, and families are adjusting to new routines of early mornings, homework, after-school practices, and Friday night
football. This is an exciting time of year, and I want to thank our teachers, administrators, and staff who dedicate so much to preparing our students for success. The investment they make in our children every day will have a ripple effect across Helena for years to come.
Looking back on August, I want to highlight our annual National Night Out event. Each year this gathering brings our community together to connect with our police officers, firefighters, and others while enjoying food, games, and fellowship. A very special thank you goes to Officer Jeff Murphy and his wife Michelle, who once again poured their time, effort, and heart into organizing the event. The Murphys have made this tradition a highlight for our city, and their commitment is deeply appreciated.
I also want to extend a big congratulations to the 7U Helena Baseball All-Stars for winning the State Title!
“For those races headed to a runoff, I encourage all citizens to stay engaged, informed, and active at the polls. Your vote is your voice, and Helena is strongest when our residents are fully involved.”
These young athletes have given our city a reason to cheer, and they represent the best of what sports can offer—teamwork, discipline, and memories that last a lifetime. Who knows, we may be watching the early careers of the next Richard Fitts or another future Major League player. But beyond the wins and trophies, it’s the friendships and lessons learned on the ball field that will stick with them forever.
I’d also like to provide an update on two major projects that will soon bring meaningful improvements to our community. The first is the turn lane from Highway 17 onto Highway 58. This project, made possible through a grant I secured under the Rebuild Alabama Act, is nearing completion this month. Once finished, the turn lane will help alleviate some of the traffic backups we’ve all experienced on Highway 17 and improve the daily commute for countless residents.
report that the app is on track to launch this October.
September also ushers in the excitement of fall sports. From youth recreational leagues to Helena High School athletics, I encourage everyone to get out and support our Huskies. Whether on the football field, volleyball court, or crosscountry trail, our young athletes deserve the cheers of their community.
The second project is one that I know many of you have been eagerly awaiting—the launch of our train app. For the past two years, the City has worked closely with Gresham Smith Engineering to design a mobile application that will bring real-time and predictive train data directly to your phone. The app will not only alert you when a train is currently blocking a crossing but also use predictive analytics to estimate when a train will arrive and when the tracks will clear. This is an exciting step forward in leveraging technology to solve one of Helena’s longstanding challenges. I’m pleased to
Together As One,
And of course, no September would be complete without Oktoberfest at the Helena Amphitheater Park. Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 20th, when gates open at 2:30 p.m. The HOTBoard has put together a day filled with fun, food, and tradition, making Helena the only place in Shelby County to celebrate Oktoberfest in style. The event will feature authentic German music by the Bavarian Express, dachshund races, keg tossing, stein hoisting, and pretzel eating contests. The day will conclude with a special performance by Texas Flood, a Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute band traveling all the way from Austin, Texas. It promises to be a celebration for all ages.
As always, I want to thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Mayor. Together, we continue to build a city that balances growth with community, innovation with tradition, and progress with smalltown charm. Let’s continue to shop, eat, and play local, supporting the businesses and organizations that make Helena the place we are proud to call home.
- Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena
Mayor Brian Puckett
In this issue
Ross Tolbert leaving legacy as four-year drum major of Auburn University Marching Band
Richard Fitts takes the mound for the Boston Red Sox
EDITORIAL
Daniel Locke
Andrew Simonson
Noah Wortham
Sydney
Jamie
Noah
Rachel
Rhett McCreight
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
VARSITY FOOTBALL AT SPAIN PARK
SEPTEMBER 9
6 P.M.
Helena High School
The Helena High School volleyball team looks to kick off area play on a positive note in a rivalry game against the Pelham Panthers on Tuesday, Sept. 9 at Helena High School, trying to gain bragging rights early in the season.
THE GUIDE
SEPTEMBER 9
VARSITY VOLLEYBALL VS. PELHAM
6 P.M.
Helena High School
The Helena High School volleyball team looks to kick off area play on a positive note in a rivalry game against the Pelham Panthers on Tuesday, Sept. 9 at Helena High School, trying to gain bragging rights early in the season.
SEPTEMBER 20
OKTOBERFEST
OLD TOWN LIVE
4 P.M.
Helena Amphitheater
The city of Helena will cap off its 2025 Old Town Live series on Saturday, Sept. 20 with an Oktoberfest celebration. The celebration will feature tunes from Texas Flood, a Stevie Ray cover band from Austin, Texas.
AROUND TOWN
SEPT. 1 | ALL DAY Labor Day
SEPT. 2 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
SEPT. 2 | 6 P.M. Varsity volleyball at Mountain Brook
SEPT. 4 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
SEPT. 4 | 6 P.M. Varsity volleyball at Briarwood Christian
SEPT. 5 | 7 P.M.
Varsity football vs. Chilton County
SEPT. 8 | 6 P.M. Helena City Council
SEPT. 9 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
SEPT. 9 | 6 P.M. Varsity volleyball vs. Pelham
SEPT. 11 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
SEPT. 11 | 6 P.M. Varsity volleyball vs. Spain Park
SEPT. 12 | 7 P.M. Varsity football at Spain Park
SEPT. 15 | 5:45 P.M. Storyteller Dolores Hydock at Helena City Hall
SEPT. 16 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
SEPT. 16 | 6 P.M. Varsity volleyball vs. Chelsea
SEPT. 18 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library
SEPT. 18 | 5 P.M.
Varsity volleyball vs. Athens
SEPT. 18 | 6 P.M.
Planning and Zoning Committee Meeting
SEPT. 18 | 7 P.M.
Varsity volleyball vs. Northridge
SEPT. 19 | 7 P.M.
Varsity football at Moody
SEPT. 20 | 4 P.M.
Oktoberfest Old Town Live
SEPT. 22 | 6 P.M. Helena City Council
SEPT. 23 | 11 A.M.
Storytime at the Library
SEPT. 23 | 4 P.M. Municipal Court
SEPT. 23 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity volleyball at McAdory
SEPT. 23 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity volleyball vs. Cornerstone at McAdory
SEPT. 25 | 11 A.M.
Storytime at the Library
SEPT. 25 | 6 P.M.
Varsity volleyball at Spain Park
SEPT. 26 | 7 P.M.
Varsity football at Oxford
SEPT. 27 | 9 A.M. Helena Fall Craft Fair
SEPT. 30 | 11 A.M.
Storytime at the Library
SEPT. 30 | 6 P.M.
Varsity volleyball vs. Chelsea
SEPTEMBER 27
FALL CRAFT FAIR
9 A.M.
Helena Public Library
Citizens will be able to get ready for the fall season and weather when the Helena Public Library hosts the 2025 Fall Craft Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., allowing residents to discover a number of handcrafted goods.
HELENA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Monday, Sept. 8 & 22
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
Helena was well-represented in the 7U state baseball tournament as the Huskies brought home some hardware.
Helena Hollow hosted a rodeo on Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19, bringing outdoor fun to the community.
Six first responders were honored for life-saving actions at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Helena City Council on Monday, Aug. 11, each receiving a letter of commendation.
National Night Out, hosted by the Helena Police Department, provided an opportunity for first responders to spend time with members of the community in a family-friendly environment.
HELENA HOLLOW HOSTS REDO RODEO
7U HELENA ALL-STARS WIN STATE TITLE
HELENA COMES TOGETHER FOR NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
HELENA HONORS FIRST RESPONDERS’ LIFE-SAVING ACTIONS
HELENA LOOKING TO BREAK OUT IN FIRST YEAR UNDER BRISKEY
The Helena volleyball program is heading into the first year of a new era as Destinee Briskey has taken over as head coach.
HELENA’S JAID SPEARS NAMED NATIONAL AWARD WINNER IN AMERICA250 CONTEST
Helena High School sophomore Jaid Spears was named a national winner in America250’s America’s Field Trip Contest. Additionally, her essay won first place statewide.
HELENA HIGH SCHOOL BAND BRAVES HEAT, PREPARES FOR 2025 SEASON
With halftime performances under the Friday night lights and competition season rapidly approaching, the Helena High School band is working hard to prepare, despite the unrelenting Alabama heat.
HELENA SOFTBALL PLAYERS BUILD BONDS WITH COMMUNITY AT ANNUAL YOUTH SOFTBALL CAMP
Kids had the chances to learn from high school players and coaches.
BACK TO SCHOOL RECAP
HES ‘ABSOLUTELY THRILLED’ FOR NEW SCHOOL YEAR
BY DANIEL LOCKE
PHOTO BY JEREMY RAINES
HELENA – Students have returned to schools across Shelby County for the start of the 2025-2026 school year, enthusiastic about new opportunities to learn and grow while making new friends.
Helena Elementary School is no exception. The youngest group of Huskies, in the care of dedicated teachers, have big things ahead of them, and principal Holly Laney is excited to see it all unfold.
“I am absolutely thrilled that another school year has begun,” Laney said. “August always brings so many exciting adventures, fresh opportunities and a sense of new beginnings. There’s an energy in the
air this time of year that’s contagious. It’s a chance to set goals, dream big and watch our students grow in ways we can’t even imagine yet.”
After the school has sat empty all summer, welcoming students back in reminds the faculty and staff why they are so passionate about education.
“The building is so quiet over the summer,” Laney said. “Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty to do, but when the students return, it’s like the school comes alive again. Seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones is a joy that’s hard to put into words. The laughter in the hallways, the buzz of conversations
and the little moments of learning happening everywhere remind us why we do what we do. It’s the heartbeat of our school.”
Although a teacher can feel overwhelmed by everything they have on their plate at the beginning of a new school year, it offers them an opportunity to begin forming a bond with their new group of students. This makes all of the hard work worth it in their eyes.
“While the beginning of the year is always a whirlwind, seeing the joy in our teachers’ eyes and the eagerness in their attitudes as they meet their new students is inspiring,” Laney said. “They work tirelessly to build that new classroom family where every child feels valued and seen. It’s a time of creativity, connection and laying the foundation for a year full of growth, both academically and personally.”
Helena takes a great deal of pride in its schools. Setting students up for success is a priority in the city, and members of the community do not hesitate to provide any support that is needed.
Laney has felt that support as much as ever as Helena Elementary heads into a new season of learning.
“We are so blessed in Helena to have parents and community partners who show up from day one,” Laney said. “We’ve had community partners drop off food, school supplies and thoughtful treats, while our PTO parents have been here daily, helping teachers, providing meals and supporting students during the busiest times of the day. Their generosity and involvement are the driving force that helps us create a warm, welcoming environment for every child.”
Laney is looking forward to another opportunity to make an impact in the lives of the students at Helena Elementary. From the youngest students to the oldest, she strives to help everyone inside the school reach their full potential.
“It takes a village to make our schools the very best for our students,” Laney said. “From kindergarteners just beginning their journey to seniors preparing for their next chapter, being a Husky is something truly special. Together, we can make this a year full of memories, learning and growth. Let’s commit to encouraging one another, celebrating every success and keeping our students at the heart of everything we do.”
Library Update
GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY
TThe summer is almost over, and the staff and library supporters want to invite everyone to visit the library. Whether you are new to the area, or simply visiting from time to time, there is something of interest for everyone.
be at Helena City Hall on Monday, September 15, at 6 p.m. No tickets or reservations are necessary, just show up. We hope to see you there.
When it comes to events and support, the Friends of the Library volunteers are important to the overall mission of the library, and they generously give their time and energy.
Library Director
Dan Dearing
Library information is available on the city of Helena website. Please visit Cityofhelena.org and click “menu” at the top right of the page, then click “residents” then “public library.” You can find access to the calendar of events there, or feel free to stop by for a paper calendar for your refrigerator. It’s free. The library has fun programs and makes an effort to have something for all ages. The library has a special presentation for grownups this month. Dolores Hydock is an award-winning storyteller and outstanding actress who performs dramatically different stories and shows.
The title of the story she will perform is “Story souvenirs: sometimes the best souvenir you bring home from a trip is a story.” This is a collection of stories from the cobblestones of Prague, a winter day in Paris, a London bus stop and some pre-trip advice. Don’t miss this great opportunity to see a Birmingham storytelling legend in person for free. The program will
This group meets to have fun, socialize, plan and work on projects to improve the library for the community. October would be a great time to visit a Friends Meeting to get acquainted with fellow residents and learn about volunteering.
The Friends meet on the first Tuesday of the month at 5:45 PM at the library. Please call 205-664-8308 and ask for Dan if you are interested in joining.
Generations of Helena residents have visited, volunteered, donated and worked in so many ways to make sure we have a nice library. There are great resources for all ages, and the staff looks forward to serving you. Please visit the Jane B. Holmes Public Library soon!
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
September’s Top Picks
YOU BELONG HERE
By Megan Miranda | Adult Fiction
A decades-old secret that drove a mother from her hometown now threatens her college-bound daughter in this twisty new thriller.
PROOF
By Jon Cowan | Adult Fiction
A riveting and gritty legal thriller about murder, cover-ups, redemption and Los Angeles.
AMIGURUMI CRITTERS: 25 IMAGINATIVE CROCHET DESIGNS FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS
By Amy Ting | Adult Nonfiction
The guidebook contains all knowledge you need to make a collection of stuffed animals.
THE ACCIDENTAL STOWAWAY
By Judith Eagle | Juvenile
In this rollicking transatlantic romp set in 1910, a plucky girl named Patch accidentally stows away on a glamorous steamship, finding herself in the midst of a mystery.
EASY CROCHET FOR KIDS
By Claire Montgomerie | Juvenile Nonfiction
“Easy Crochet for Kids” will help you teach your children the basics of crochet in a clear way that’s certain not to leave them in a tangle.
THE
WILD ROBOT ON THE ISLAND
By Peter Brown | Easy/Picture
This gorgeously illustrated picture book adaptation brings to full color the adventures of the bestselling novel “The Wild Robot.”
Sports
JONATHAN ROBERTO
Linebacker for Helena High School football
What inspired you to start playing football?
My family. My father played football ever since he was a kid and he played throughout high school and college. My older brother has played ever since he was little and now plays in college. My grandfather played in the NHL, so sports were just natural to me. Also, I just fell in love with sports when I was younger so I started playing and haven’t stopped since.
How old were you when you started playing football? I was seven years old and in the third grade.
Has there ever been a coach or mentor that made a huge impact on you? What did they teach you?
Ever since I was young, my parents always taught me to be tough and those who want to be great have to work harder than everybody else. Recently my trainer Mike McCoy has helped reinforce that lesson.
What is your favorite thing about playing for the Huskies?
I’ve grown up in Helena pretty much my whole life and have made a lot of friends through sports along the way, so getting to play with my friends I’ve grown up with is pretty special.
What is your favorite football memory?
I would say when me and my brother got to play on the same field at the same time for the first time ever. Getting to watch him and his friends grow up and then getting to play with them is cool too.
When you’re not in school or playing sports, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Working out, training, hanging out with friends, eating, watching shows, cooking and talking to God.
Education
STEVE BROMLEY
Assistant principal at Helena High School
1. First, tell me more about yourself.
I have been married to my wife, Elizabeth, for 11 years and have two kids—Easton, age 7, and Johnny, age 2. I have a bachelor’s degree in physical education from the University of Alabama and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Arkansas State University. I also graduated from Pinson Valley High School in 1996, where I played football, basketball and baseball before playing college basketball at Northwest Shoals Community College.
2. Can you tell me about your career in education?
I spent 14 years as a teacher and coach. 11 of those years were in St. Clair County and Jefferson County before spending three years at Helena High School from 2014-2017. I am now beginning my ninth year as an administrator and have held positions at Calera High School and Montevallo High School before coming back to Helena.
3. How does it feel knowing you are an assistant principal at such an esteemed school like HHS?
Helena is a truly exceptional place. My experience here does not feel like work, but rather a meaningful and fulfilling calling. Each day, I approach my responsibilities with humility and gratitude. The faculty, students and school community foster an environment of inclusivity, unity and respect. Since the school’s opening in 2014, the support from the community has been nothing short of outstanding. I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to work alongside a dedicated and student-focused team of educators, staff and administrators. Our shared commitment to building strong relationships and nurturing the whole student is our central focus. The faculty and staff genuinely love our students, treating them as our own and striving to help them realize their fullest potential.
4. What are you looking forward to most about the school year?
The opportunities to show God’s love through servant leadership, cultivating relationships and inspiring students to be critical thinkers and model citizens.
5. What has been your favorite thing about working at HHS over the course of your career?
Over the years, the relationships built within the classrooms and through extracurricular activities at Helena High School have come to define the true spirit of what it means to be an educator. an educator goes beyond academic responsibilities; it’s about fostering meaningful connections and making a lasting impact on the lives of others. This is what being a Husky is all about.
6. Do you have a message you would like to say to the Helena community?
Thank you for the opportunity to serve your students. As I continue my tenure as assistant principal, I remain committed to representing our school and community with honor, integrity and dedication.
Meet Your Neighbor
The Smitherman Family
The city of Helena has been considered a special place to raise a family for quite some time, and the Smitherman family would concur.
PJ, the COO of Aux Home Services, has loved calling Helena home along with his wife Lauren, daughter Sophia and son Dylan since moving from Homewood in 2015. Sophia is in the Marching Band at Helena High School and
Dylan loves playing baseball. Faith is something that is incredibly important to the Smitherman’s. They attend The Station Church.
Old Town Live is one of the Smitherman family’s favorite things Helena has to offer.
“We are one of the sponsors and have just enjoyed the music and community coming together as a family,” PJ said.
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
Mike Wood
Police Chief
Despite still being relatively new to the Helena Police Department, Police Chief Mike Wood is no stranger to the community. He and his wife Iliana have called Helena home for 11 years, and three of their six children currently attend Helena schools.
Wood brought 30 years of experience with him when he was sworn in as Helena’s police chief. Throughout his five months in the position, he has been impressed by the officers he feels privileged to serve with.
“They are not only highly professional, but also deeply involved in the community and passionate about serving the citizens of Helena,” Wood said.
Wood has been striving to set the department up for future success and ensure it has everything it needs to properly protect and serve the community.
Wood and his family never waste an opportunity to enjoy the entertainment options Helena has available for those who call it home.
“I truly enjoy Helena’s strong family-oriented atmosphere and the high level of community involvement,” Wood said. “From school events to popular gatherings like the Old Town Live concerts, there’s a strong sense of togetherness. It’s a familybased environment with wonderful parks, welcoming neighborhoods and plenty of opportunities for entertainment.”
STABBING THE MACE
Helena native Ross Tolbert enters fourth year as drum major of Auburn University Marching Band
BY TYLER RALEY
PHOTOS BY JAKE EVANS
SStanding in the south end zone of Auburn University’s Jordan-Hare Stadium on Nov. 12, 2022, three students in white uniforms marched out onto the field holding maces while Auburn University Marching Band announcer Jim Jackson got the crowd fired up.
In the center of the formation was then sophomore drum major Ross Tolbert, who, for the first time, was about to perform his mace routine for the first time in front of 87, 451 people.
It was a windy and cold night, making the nerves that much stronger. However, one thing stood true—when he stabbed the mace into Pat
Dye Field, it was part of the beginning of a shining experience he would have as part of the AUMB.
Now entering his fourth year as a drum major of the program, Tolbert is finishing his mark in a musical legacy that has carried on for years. In essence, some might call it destiny.
Tolbert’s passion for music did not just come up out of the blue. It is instead rooted in his DNA.
His parents, Brent and April, are both diehard Alabama fans and were both in the Million Dollar Band from 1990-1993, his dad a tuba player and drum major, his mom a clarinet
player.
Both Brent and April received degrees in music, so when Ross was growing up, finding an instrument was not difficult by any means
“I’ve always grown up around music,” Ross said. “We have a piano in our house and then we have like every instrument, so naturally I was curious of like how they worked and what they sounded like.”
Ross began taking piano lessons in fifth grade and eventually chose to play the trumpet heading into middle school. However, out of all the brass instruments to choose from, he scored the worst
on the trumpet.
So why did he choose it? He had played it a lot at home and had a great support system around him.
“They were definitely encouraging of it, and helpful too,” Ross said. “My mom has been like my musical coach throughout middle school and high school. She likes to call it ‘Mom Boot Camp.’ When we work on All-State and anything, she’s like, ‘We’re going to go to boot camp and work on this.’”
As a result of his mentor, he developed rapidly as a player, placing first chair in Shelby County
every year since his seventh grade year and making All-State band each year since eighth grade.
As he moved into his high school years, Ross began to learn under Helena’s most seasoned band director, Jeff Burnside, as he started a new era of concert music and marching band.
After two years of succeeding and continually rising above the expectations set for him, Tolbert took on a new challenge that became very intriguing to him—wanting to stand on the podium as a drum major.
“The role of drum major is very challenging
and very different that marching and playing an instrument,” Ross said. “ I think because it is such a different and demanding role, I was drawn to it because I loved the challenge and I love to go outside of my box and do things that I’ve never done. I also like to give my best effort at things I do, and I feel like I could do that best in the role of drum major.”
He set out on his ambitions, and before he knew it, he became a drum major for Helena’s marching band for his junior and senior years.
For Ross, it was going to be a major transition though, both from a learning perspective and a
change in his personality. Burnside helped him through it, getting him to where he is now.
“If you’ve ever met the man, he’s very nice. He is a talker, but for good reasons, and I think he helped me get out of my shell more than anything,” Ross said. “If there was anything that he taught me, it was how to get out of my shell, because I going into high school was very reserved and did not talk much to people... I think he definitely helped me break open out of my shell.”
Growing through those two years set him up for his college journey in the AUMB, an organization that was not necessarily uncharted waters for him.
A few years after Brent was a drum major at Alabama, current Auburn Marching Band Director Dr. Corey Spurlin took on the same role. Fast forward some years later, and Spurlin was a student teacher under April in Northport
before getting a job at the feeder high school in Tuscaloosa County High School.
So while the nerves hit that come with a transition to a big university, Ross knew that it was not really necessary to stand out himself in order to earn a standout position.
“(The transition was) very scary,” Ross said. “So naturally, there was some uneasiness about not standing out. I just came here and I didn’t really worry trying to do X, Y, Z to be a drum major, I just simply did my part.”
At the end of his freshman season, he took the initiative to try out for a spot as drum major, and after a rigorous audition process, Ross became one of the few sophomores to have ever earned a spot.
Being the young leader among three other seniors, working up to Spurlin’s high expectations for him was not easy. Ross did not waver though, he just went to work.
“I hope that I’ve been able to be a good example in everybody’s life that’s been in the AUMB. There’s the cheesy saying, ‘leave something better than you found it.’ I hope that I can leave this organization, this team better than I found it just in the simplest ways of not necessarily music-related things, but just ways that we grow as a family and as a team, just the little things.””
-ROSS TOLBERT
“(Spurlin is) very real about his expectations and there is a standard that you must meet, and that standard doesn’t fall ever,” Ross said. “It was more so me just knowing that and stepping into the role knowing that I need to do what I needed to do to pull my end of the sled.”
At the tail end of his first season, the sophomore got to do one of the most nerveracking but shining moments of drum major in the AUMB—lead the band out in pregame and do his mace routine.
As much as he had practiced his routine though, a night game in Jordan-Hare was something he could not have possibly prepared for.
“I really didn’t hear anything,” Ross said. “Strangely enough, it actually gets very quiet when you’re in the center of the field like that. I don’t remember a single sound. It’s a little nerve racking, but it’s cool.”
Mom taught middle school band at Northport, dad taught high school in Brookwood
Both transitioned to Fayette later on, mom taught middle, dad taught high
“The thing that I like the most is it’s just a brand new group of people every year and I’ve gotten a chance to see four iterations of that now. This is how it always is but it’s just really cool to see how this group of people become a family and do the thing on the field and do the thing outside of the field at practices. At the end of the day it is just band and there’s a lot more to
it than there is what we do at practice every day and what we do at a game. You’re making memories for life, you’re meeting people that you’re going to become friends with and stay friends with.”
“It’s nice to know that people see what we do and appreciate what we do, and it’s also cool that we get to be a part of an Auburn tradition that we have created with the pregame show and everything. It’s really cool. I like that we contribute more than just a show on the field—we contribute many different ways.”
“I hope that I’ve been able to be a good example in everybody’s life that’s been in the AUMB. There’s the cheesy saying, ‘leave something better than you found it.’ I hope that I can leave this organization, this team better than I found it just in the simplest ways of not necessarily music-related things, but just ways that we grow as a family and as a team, just the little things.”
FROM PENHALE TO FENWAY
BY DANIEL LOCKE
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN ATHLETICS, BOSTON RED SOX AND FILE
Helena’s Richard Fitts shines with Red Sox
HHelena has seen no shortage of talented baseball players call it home, but only one has made it to a major league diamond.
Richard Fitts, a 2018 graduate of Helena High School who went on to pitch at Auburn University, has been a consistent part of the Boston Red Sox’s pitching staff since making his debut in September 2024.
Fitts comes from a baseball family. His older brother Trevor, who played at Mississippi State University, is now the director of player development for the University of Kentucky’s program.
Helena provided the Fitts family an
opportunity to grow together, both on and off the diamond. Wearing a Helena uniform is something Fitts took a great deal of pride in.
“I love the city,” Fitts said. “Just the smalltown feel, and being able to see it grow as I’ve gotten older. Just going from Penhale Park to the sports complex and the high school being built. It was awesome to see the city grow as I did. I’ve always loved Helena and I always will.”
Fitts’ junior year at Helena was one of the most successful in program history, as the Huskies captured the baseball program’s only state title. While he was unable to participate for most of the season, he was still determined to be
a quality teammate, helping out in any way he could.
“I was hurt for most of the year, but I was kind of the team cheerleader,” Fitts said. “We had a great team. A lot of those players went on to play college ball. It was really just a tight-knit group of guys who had one goal and were able to have fun, the wins came along with it.”
PJ Guy, Helena’s head coach at the time, has no shortage of positive takeaways from his time
with Fitts in the program. While Fitts was devoted to his craft on the baseball field, Guy reflected on his passion for service in other areas and his high-quality personality.
“He is one of the best humans on the planet,” Guy said. “He was SGA president, he was one of the student leaders of our Fellowship of Christian Athletes. As far as coaching Richard the person, it was an absolute joy. He was a tireless worker, always striving to improve.”
The feeling is mutual, as Fitts credits Guy with not only developing him into a college baseball player, but helping him grow into an adult as well.
The duo has remained close over the years. Fitts specifically appreciated Guy’s ability to get the results he wanted from the team without overworking his players and maintaining an enjoyable environment.
“I love coach Guy, I loved playing for him
because of how much he pushed all of us to be better players and better men,” Fitts said. “Whether it’s the discipline or the fun aspect of movie nights and the whole team sharing a meal together. He created a culture of winning, but having fun while doing it.”
Fitts’ performance in high school earned him the opportunity to walk on at Auburn.
Head coach Butch Thompson, who also coached Trevor at Mississippi State, knew Fitts
well before his college career began. Despite Fitts missing the majority of his junior season in high school, an important time for recruiting, Thompson saw his potential and believed he would be a fine addition to the roster.
“It goes way back, that’s a decade-plus relationship,” Thompson said. “He was no different than his brother. High character, great work ethic, amazing family. I saw the value in him, even when he wasn’t on the field his junior
year of high school.”
Despite injuries and losing the majority of his sophomore season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Fitts made the most of his three years with the Tigers. He played a significant role in Auburn’s 2019 run to the College World Series.
The time he spent at Auburn pathed the way for Fitts to have an opportunity to play professionally. Thompson, who had a similar coaching style to Guy, and the rest of his staff
showed Fitts what it would take to compete at that level, a challenge he accepted confidently.
“The staff is awesome, coach Thompson does a great job really pushing the team to be a tightknit group,” Fitts said. “When Tim Hudson came in as our pitching coach, it was a great opportunity for me to be able to learn from somebody who played at the big-league level for a really long time and had a lot of success.”
All of the work he had put in so far led Fitts to
the 2021 MLB Draft. Draft day brings a significant amount of nerves, but the excitement of years of dedication finally paying off is present as well.
“It’s a stressful day. The best way I can describe it is a lot of anticipation,” Fitts said. “You don’t really know what’s going to happen.”
Fitts did not have to wait long for his name to be called, however, as the New York Yankees selected him in the sixth round. He spent the
next two seasons climbing through the minor league ranks, then was sent to the Red Sox in a trade.
Less than a year after joining the organization, Fitts got his opportunity. He received the news that he would be pitching against the Chicago White Sox at Fenway Park. It was a can’t-miss moment for everyone who had helped him along his journey.
“I was getting ready to go see an Alabama football game when he called last September,” Guy said. “He told me he was toeing the rubber at Fenway Park in 24 hours. I started scrambling and was blessed and lucky enough to make that trip. I didn’t sleep for 36 hours, but it was worth every second.”
Fitts stole the show, holding the White Sox to no earned runs and punching two batters out in
5.2 innings on the mound. He made three more starts to close out the 2024 season and earned a spot in the rotation going into the 2025 campaign.
As the season has gone along, the significance of being a member of the Red Sox, or just playing in the Major League in general, has not worn off for Fitts. He is reminded of the years of hard work that went into achieving his dream of becoming a professional ball player each time he walks into Fenway Park, widely considered to be one of the sport’s most iconic venues.
“It’s unreal every day,” Fitts said. “It’s unbelievable to come to Fenway Park and call it my work. I’m super blessed to be in this situation. Being in the big leagues is awesome and a dream come true. Being able to put on the iconic Boston Red Sox hat every day and being able to walk around with Red Sox on my chest, it’s awesome. It’s an unreal experience.”
No matter what happens for Fitts, he has earned the right to be called a Major League Baseball player, an honor that can never be taken from him. All the way from Penhale Park to Fenway Park, Helena has been well-represented by Fitts, an immensely talented pitcher who makes an impact on everyone he meets.
Your child learns with all five senses.
Six including their sense of wonder.
Strike up the band
The Helena High School marching band has been hard at work mastering its field show, stand tunes and choreography. With performances under the Friday night lights underway and competition season approaching, the band is putting its best foot forward in Brent Traylor’s first season as head director.
MAGAZINE PHOTOS/DANIEL LOCKE
Night out with local heroes
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
The parking lot of Helena High School was filled with first responders from various departments based in Helena and beyond at National Night Out. The fire fighters and law enforcement officers got to show off their equipment and tools while interacting with the community.
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
Back to school
On Aug. 7, students returned to Helena Elementary School for another year of growth and learning. The HES administrators, teachers and support staff are enthusiastic about helping the youngest group of Huskies along in their development.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
Helena High School hosted National Night Out on Aug. 5, allowing the community to interact with first responders, shop from local vendors and had a variety of food trucks to choose from.
1. Chris, Corbin and Jenna Miller
2. Meredith, Roan and Springer Cunningham
3. Dominga Gardner
4. Jay and Erin Welborn
5. Derby
6. Hewy Woodman
7. Michael Nelson
8. Jason Davis, Amy Reach and Leah Lightner
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MY HELENA
KELLY MORGAN
Project Manager at
Gresham Smith
Volunteers
The fulfillment of giving back
As a Helena Market Days volunteer, I’ve seen firsthand the time and effort it takes to organize community events—and that’s why I deeply admire all those who give their time to make Helena such a special place. Whether it’s helping with events like the Market Days, the Beautification Board, Helena Old Town, the Buck Creek Festival or volunteering in our schools or for Parks and Rec, these individuals are what make our city so special.
Soccer
Proudly representing the community on the field
In the fall and spring, our family spends a lot of time at the soccer field. Our son has been lucky to have the same coach for several years—in my opinion, one of the best coaches in the area. Through soccer, we’ve built amazing friendships with other families that go beyond the field. It’s become such a meaningful part of our Helena experience.
The Hillsboro Trail Quality time outdoors
We love that the Hillsboro Trail connects neighborhoods and provides easy access to Lee Springs Park. We walk, bike or scooter along the trail—it’s a way to unplug and enjoy quality time together. We often run into friends along the way and take a few minutes to catch up before continuing our journey. It’s a peaceful, beautiful part of our community that we’re so grateful to have.
Christmas in Helena
Celebrating the most wonderful time of the year
The holiday season in Helena is special, from the Holiday Markets to the Christmas Tree Lighting. Over the years, we’ve created memories and traditions, like meeting friends at our spot along the parade route to watch the band, cheer for the dancers, see the horses trot through and, of course, wave to Santa Claus. Though we don’t have family nearby, our wonderful neighbors and friends have become like family—we now spend Christmas Eve together, and it’s one of my favorite traditions.
HELENA
P.O.
Phone: 205-669-3131
