Helena City News

Helena City News www.myhelenacitynews.com

Serving Helena and Surrounding Communities

Fall 2011

ghost story a helena

magnolia springs manor

Helena museum opens its doors History has a home in Old Town, and it carries a familiar name

rc race cars rev up good times Warehouse Hobby Raceway drives a new brand of fun

Helena city news hits the web

Your newsletter has a new site, blog and Facebook fan page

www.MyHelenaCityNews.com • helenacitynews.Blogspot.com

From the Mayor’s Desk Got Real Questions? Get Real Answers! Call 663-9301 or Email: sonny@sonny-penhale.com Dear Friends, y best wishes go out to Jenni Goolsby, our principal at Helena Middle School, as she accepts a transfer to the central office in Columbiana. Jenni is a fine lady, and we wish her the best in everything she does.

Doug Jones, our police chief, married Melissa Davenport. Congratulations to them both. Doug has been with the Helena Police Department since he graduated from high school, starting out as a dispatcher.

Please, please do not feed the geese at Joe Tucker Park or Silver Lakes. They are growing in numbers and are creating a health hazard with all the waste and debris they leave behind.

Please keep our dog leash ordinance in mind, and while your dog is off your property, remember that it is your responsibility to pick up any waste it leaves behind.

Thanks to Amy Bolt who recently organized the Helena Belles service group at Pelham High School. Young ladies were selected to be in her first class, and their names and pictures can be found on page 5 in this magazine. Congratulations to them all. I know they will represent the city well as hostesses.

Thanks to all who came out to support the first ever Suicide Prevention Walk. It is good to know that help is just a phone call away for any who feel desperate about life. Our chaplains are on standby to field calls for help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They are trained to handle crisis situations. They meet each month to pray together and talk about ways in which they can reach out.

I know this group is effective, because the number of suicide attempts has taken a nose dive since the problem was brought to light. My prayer is that it continues to decline and be eliminated. From a high last year of 24, so far this year, there have been two attempts. That’s one more thing to thank God for.

My thanks to Street Department employee Jeremy Bungo, this month’s employee spotlight, and to Councilwoman Barbara Hyche. There is a special feature about Jeremy and his devotion to helping Barbara with the beautiful hanging baskets all over town. These two do

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so much to keep our city beautiful. Please thank them when you see them out for their tireless efforts on our behalf.

Thanks to all who joined in the prayer walk on Oct. 8 to bless the site of our new school and to thank God for paving the way for us to have a new high school.

Two potential new restaurants are looking at the old Incahoots building.

One is a micro-brewery and the other a bakery/restaurant combination. More on these if something concrete develops.

Thanks to everyone who came out for the dedication of our newly opened Kenneth R. Penhale Helena History Museum recently. Kenny has always been devoured by his love of history, and his collections of pictures and mementos and those he has gathered from others are truly something for everyone who lives here to be proud of. If you have not been for a visit yet, I urge you to read the story on page 14 and come out to see for yourself the rich heritage you enjoy as citizens of Helena. Kenny worked without rest to bring this project to fruition, and I offer my congratulations to him on a job well done.

Dave Smith, the publisher of Helena City News, has developed a website for this newsletter, so now you can access it from anywhere you have a computer.

The newsletter’s website address is www.MyHelenaCityNews.com.

It has an associated community blog that can be updated as often as is needed at www.HelenaCityNews.blogspot.com.

I hope you are as impressed with the new website and blog as I am. They were produced at no cost to the city and are being maintained by Dave as a free service to the citizens of Helena. My thanks to him and his crew for a job well done.

Helena has enjoyed first class communications tools produced by Dave Smith for the better part of 20 years. He earns his pay for publishing our newsletter strictly through advertising that he is responsible for selling. We send out the bills and take out a portion of the advertising revenue to account for our clerical time and also for any advertisers who do not pay. This amount withheld usually manages to offset a portion of the printing and postage costs, too.

Dave has always kept the city’s costs to a bare minimum. About a year ago, he

revamped our mailing program saving us nearly 40 percent on postage, and the last time we took bids on the printing of the newsletter (from leading printers in the Birmingham market — about a year ago as well), the lowest bid was nearly $1,500 per issue more than Dave’s printer was charging us. Time and time again, Dave has proven to be a valuable asset to the City of Helena, both for his connections in the printing industry and the professional look he gives to everything he does for us, from the newsletter to brochures and now, the website and blog. We are fortunate to have Dave Smith working with us.

Helena Athletic Boosters are charged with raising money for the sports teams at both our middle school and, when it is built, our new high school. Doug Moore is the president, and he has called a meeting of interested parties at the first Athletics Town Hall Meeting, Sunday, Oct. 23, from 7 to 8 p.m., at Helena City Hall. This meeting will officially launch the Helena Athletic Association.

Any parents of children K-12 who participate in any Helena athletic program should make plans to attend. Email questions to:

Charles W. “Sonny” Penhale

helenaathleticassociation@gmail.com.

Finally, if you see somebody in your neighborhood that looks out of place, do not be bashful about calling the police department at 663-6499 to allow them to check things out. Let the police know when people are selling things door-todoor and let’s be sure they are on the up-and-up. Sometimes criminals will go door-to-door pretending to sell things just to see if anybody is home. This has actually happened. Things are not like they used to be unfortunately. Better safe than sorry.

There is a lot going on in the life of our city, and as always, it is my great pleasure to serve as your mayor.

Yours Truly,

Charles “Sonny” Penhale

Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale had the pleasure of meeting 2012 Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain at a recent dinner meeting of the Shelby County Republican Executive Committee.

2 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

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Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 3

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The Helena Belles held its official meeting at Magnolia Spring Manor on Oct. 2.

Officers were selected and plans for the upcoming year were laid out. For the 2011-2012 school

year, Haley Freeman was chosen as president and Mary Ashley Hereford was chosen as vice president. Kylie Woodman, Kayla Dubberly, Madison Crain and Heather Boyle were chosen

as the group’s historians.

Congratulations to all these girls and be sure to look for them at upcoming community events.

They’ll be the ones in the pretty, long dresses serving as hostesses.

Portrait photography courtesy of Gretchen B. Seniors

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 5

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6 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

An artist’s rendering of the new Helena High School, which is scheduled to open in Fall 2013.

Shelby County Schools superintendent addresses Helena Kiwanis Shelby County Schools Superintendent Randy Fuller spoke to the Helena Kiwanis Club last month, telling those present that a $75 million to $80 million bond will be finalized within the coming weeks to help fund the construction of Helena’s first high school. (This has now been done.)

He thanked the city of Helena for its support in passing a school tax that paved the way to secure the bond.

“The building of a new high school will be an exciting time for this community,” Fuller said. “And I ask that each citizen support the community leaders as they move through this process.”

Helena High School is expected to open in 2013 as a Class 5A school, pending a land purchase from U.S. Steel. The high school’s expected enrollment is 950 students. Helena Middle School will receive an additional six to eight classrooms and Helena Elementary School added classrooms and parking.

From left, Kiwanis President Michael Clark, Superintendent Randy Fuller and Barry Ellis.

Town hall meeting launches Helena Athletic Association Those waiting for the official launch of the Helena Athletic Association won’t have to wait much longer.

A town hall meeting is scheduled for 7 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 23, to discuss the association. The meeting will be held at Helena City Hall and any parent whose children participate in any athletic program should plan to attend.

“The Helena family is about to embark on a project that will forever change our community,” said Doug Moore, president of the Helena Athletic Association.

“The addition of Helena High School brings much excitement and a fulfillment of the a long dream and vision. It won’t be long before the excitement of Helena

High School sports will be in the air.

“Along with the fun comes a tremendous amount of responsibility. The volunteer and financial needs will be tremendous. We already have a glimpse of this with our middle school. After much research, the Helena Middle School Athletic Association has concluded that in order for us to raise the kind of money to meet the needs of the athletic programs in our schools, we must form our own 501(c)3.

“We are excited to announce the Helena Athletic Association,” said Moore. “You are invited to be a part of our official launch. You will have the opportunity to be charter members of an

organization that must exist for our success.

Please come hear the vision that has been developed and meet the board. You will also find Doug Moore out ways you can serve and take an active part in shaping the future of Helena Athletics.

“We are looking forward to your active participation,” said Moore.

Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale and architect Rick Lathan will attend and provide a brief update on plans for Helena High School.

For more information, please email helenaathleticassociation@gmail.com.

Helena City Council approves land purchase for new high school The Helena City Council met on Tuesday, Sept. 20, in a special session called by Mayor Sonny Penhale to discuss the land purchase for Helena High School.

The hour-long meeting delved into questions about environmental hazards and other concerns. Ultimately, the council voted unanimously to make an offer of $1.7 million to purchase approximately 76 acres from U.S. Steel and to give the mayor the authority to enter into the purchase agreement.

At the speaker’s table were attorneys representing the city in negotiations with U.S. Steel, Brian Cash and Bill Justice, and financial investment banker Joe Jolly.

U.S. Steel also asked the city to refinance its $700,000 bond on the Hillsboro Parkway land and asked the city to agree to obtain the bond

by January 2012.

The land for the high school is off County Road 91 and Hillsboro Parkway near Helena Middle School.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 7

COVER STORy

Southern specters Weddings. Receptions. Parties.

But the living might not be the only ones on the guest list at Magnolia Springs Manor.

W

hen walking up the brick and stone pathways of Magnolia Springs Manor, it’s easy to get lost in the past. The Helena home, after all, was built in circa 1880 and has every bit of charm you would expect from a Southern home constructed in that era.

The simple, white-washed exterior showcases just how well the home has aged over the decades. Columns frame a classic balcony and front porch, either of which would be perfect for sitting and sipping mint juleps. And the gardens, perhaps best enjoyed underneath a parasol to gently block the sun, are manicured to near botanical perfection.

The interior is just as brilliant.

The front rooms are sun-kissed in the morning, illuminating the warmth of the antique furnishings. A set of “Gone With the Wind” plates hang near the staircase above the opening to the piano room.

And standing below its low ceilings on the first floor, or its 12-foot ceilings on its second, you can feel the home’s age.

“I love it here,” says homeowner Kathy Hamilton. “I love old homes. It’s just so peaceful.”

A Bessemer native, Kathy is all Southern. Her drawl is sweet and thicker than some. And you believe her when she says she loves her home, a historic and

At top and center, the low ceilings and classic, antique furnishings give the main living area its charm at Magnolia Springs Manor. Above, the morning sun pours a symphony of light into the Piano Room.

8 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

At left, a door opens to the secondfloor balcony where some of Helena’s finest residents have been able to relax in style over the decades. Above, an interesting frame is captured by remote while the camera rests on a tripod. A strange trick of the light or other-worldly interference? You be the judge.

architectural gem.

Recent transplants from Alabaster, Kathy, her husband, David, and twoyear-old son, Payton, moved into the home on the corner of 3rd Street and 1st Avenue West in December. She’s owned the Manor since 2007, where she has fun operating the property as a venue for weddings and other events.

On any given weekend, Kathy’s home is brimming with people. A bride. A groom. Their maids and men. Proud family members and friends. Servers.

Musicians. Ghosts.

Oh yeah. This Manor happens to be a haunted manor.

“I hear noises. It usually happens when I’m here by myself,” Kathy says.

“I’ve heard loud bangs coming from upstairs. I’ve heard doors slamming throughout the house.

“A lot of people have told me the home is haunted. People have stopped me and asked if I’ve experienced anything.”

“

And sometimes I’ll be in a room and I turn to look because it feels like someone has walked behind me.”

Thankfully, for Kathy’s sake, she’s kept her sense of humor about who might be sharing the home with her and her family.

“I talk to them (the spirits). I say, ‘hello, goodbye, go to bed. Don’t bother me and I won’t bother you.’”

So who are these specters that have taken up permanent residence?

Kathy can’t be sure, but to find likely contenders one might turn to some of the earliest occupants.

The two-story home was built as a private residence by Helena utility magnate and entrepreneur

C.T. Davidson for his brother, N.C. Davidson, and sister-in-law, Mary.

N.C. died at the age of 36 in 1888. Mary remained at the home and eventually remarried the local pharmacist, Dr. Tucker. The couple raised five children in the home.

Both N.C. Davidson and Dr. Tucker likely died in the home, according to Helena historian Ken Penhale. And both men likely laid in state in the home before burial, a custom in which a coffin and body are placed on view to allow people to pay their respects to the deceased before they are buried.

And Kathy says they may not be the only ones.

“There was a woman who came by once and said her grandfather laid in state in the house, too,” Kathy says.

Throughout its history, the Manor has changed hands only a few times.

And it was once used as a boarding home, according to Kathy. In 130 years, the home has likely seen its share of

characters pass through its doors, as well as its share of happiness and sorrow.

So has Kathy ever been really frightened? Yes. Early in ownership, she had an experience that left her shaken.

“One night when I was here cleaning, the vacuum turned itself off three different times,” she says. “I thought it might be the (electrical) sockets so I kept changing them. After that third time I just threw down the vacuum and got out of here.

“And sometimes I’ll be in a room and I turn to look because it feels like someone has walked behind me.”

Kathy, who says she’s been blessed with the home, understands why a former resident might want to stay lost in the Manor’s past, its present and its future.

“The way I look at it is they love the home as much as I do and they’ve chosen to stay,” she says. “And as long as they behave, they can stay as long as they want.”

At left, the charm of the main floor is carried to the second story in the main bedroom of the Magnolia Springs Manor. Center, homeowner Kathy Hamilton stands in the property’s gardens just off the hose. At right, a decorative garden statue stands watch on the grounds.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 9

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10 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

Warehouse Hobby Raceway owner Alan Burton is a professional RC racer and has traveled the world doing what he loves.

Gettin’ dirty

If you’re into RC cars ­— or even if you’re not — race over to Warehouse Hobby Raceway for some good, clean fun

R

Alan Burton has been racing RC cars since he was 11 years old. Now, his daughters, Chloe and Abbie enjoy the sport as well.

adio-controlled race car enthusiasts have found pay dirt at Alan Burton’s Warehouse Hobby Raceway in Helena, Alabama’s first indoor dirt track for RC racing.

Since it opened in January, pro and novice competitors have traveled from all over the southeast to sample the track on Rolling Mill Street. And the busy fall and winter season is just ahead.

Alan has enjoyed RC cars since he was 11 and today lives his childhood dreams of traveling the world as a professional RC racer sponsored by companies such as Serpent, J Concepts, Absolute Hobbyz and Tekin.

The facility has two office spaces devoted to fine-tuning and repairs for

RC car owners who many not be equally enthused about the necessary technical maintenance. Alan says tires are the first essential part to have in working order and he can usually be found hovering over a desktop lined with yellow and black discs while practice runs zoom in the background.

RC cars can cost $300 to $2,000, Alan says, and with his experience, he can direct a newbie to a quality car matched to their budget. He says he discourages first-time buyers from choosing a product off the Internet, where the quality is unknown and parts may not be readily available.

Locally, Alan recommends Oak Mountain Hobbies and Toys on Pelham

Parkway where a knowledgeable staff can show you their stock of cars and accessories.

Alan says he has planned improvements this fall to the warehouse, such as an enclosed, heated pavilion for viewers.

Flat-screen TVs are also being installed in the charger station areas so that everyone can keep up with their favorite team’s scores.

Advertising banners for local businesses will be available for placement on an inner wall. And birthday parties, with cars provided for the occasion, can be booked for any age.

With open practices held on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday afternoons, many new to the sport have come to find out more and to practice in small groups.

Chloe and Abbie, Alan’s 5- and 10-year-old daughters, can be found at the track, too, racing their own cars.

He suggests that age 5 is a fine time to introduce children to the sport.

Alan brings a premier event race, the Alabama Manufacturers Shootout, to the Cullman arena each June, where some 650 RC racers gather.

Keep up with Warehouse Hobby Raceway on Facebook at www.facebook. com/WHRaceway.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 11

Runners at the 2nd Annual Panther Prowl 5K spring into a prowl.

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The 2nd Annual Panther Prowl 5K, which benefits the Helena Middle School Athletic Association, was run on Saturday, August 13, and was a huge success. More than 200 participants joined the race.

Mayor Sonny Penhale started the race and Greg Eddins emceed.

Race organizers said the event could not have been so successful without the following sponsors: Coca Cola, Frito Lay, Karen Miller-Allstate Insurance, Event Operations Group, D.H. Griffin Companies, Gamin’ Ride, Dr. BogganOrthodontics South PC and Hoover Foot Center’s Charles Oehrlein MD.

The following Helena businesses also contributed door prizes for the event: Alterations by George, Home Plate Cooking, Frankie’s Market, The Fieldhouse, Little Italy, Top It Off and Lucia’s Italian.

The Helena Middle School Athletic Association gives special recognition to Officer Phillip Richards and Helena resident Clint Channell. Both men volunteered their time to plan the race route and help with all aspects of organizing the event. They attended all the meetings and neither has a child attending Helena Middle School.

Helena Middle School Athletics appreciates all their time and effort.

The winners of the One Mile Fun Run boys’ Prowl: 1st place, Nash Adams; 2nd Place, Bradon Hulsey; 3rd place, Trey Harless.

The winners of the girls’ Prowl: 1st place, Lindy Long; 2nd Place, Emily Gustafson; 3rd place, Madison Franklin.

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The winners of the mens’ 5K Prowl: 1st Place, Cameron Slane; 2nd place, Clilnt Channell; 3rd place, Mark McTune. The winners of the females’ 5K Prowl: 1st place, Rachel Jansen (not pictured); 2nd place, Ann Eller; 3rd place, Leysa Lackey.

12 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

earn cash for our schools every time you shop online!

Box Tops for Education programs can mean much-needed funds for Helena schools. Whether you have a child in school or not, you can help raise money for our schools with products you already buy and places you already shop online.

Here’s how you can help through the Box Tops for Education program: 1. Clip a box top from hundreds of participating products and drop them off at a Helena school. Each top is worth 10 cents when a school redeems them.

2. Shop at your favorite online stores through the Box Tops Marketplace at btfe.com and up to 15 percent of your purchase total is automatically donated to your school, at no additional cost to you. Plus, you’ll get exclusive Box Tops deals and discounts.

3. Buy books online through the Reading Room, a partnership between Box Tops and Barnes & Noble. Your school receives up to 6-percent of qualifying purchases.

4. My Class Essentials is a free online registry to help classrooms get the learning tools they so desperately need. Your school earns a 2-percent cash donation with every purchase.

Sign up to support Helena schools at btfe.com and you can see how much a school is earning with Box Tops, enter online promotions for chances to win Bonus Box Tops and other prizes, print coupons for your favorite Box Tops brands and make mealtimes easier with recipes for your family.

You can also sign up for Box Tops email newsletters that will keep you updated on the program, and for Marketplace newsletters with Box Tops members-only deals and discounts.

For a complete list of products or for more information on any of the Box Tops for Education programs, please visit btfe.com and help Helena’s schools.

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Have a question? Please submit it to Dr.RoderickWhite@gmail.com I sometimes have low back pain. A friend of mine is one of your patients and she said you told her to stop sleeping on her stomach. I sleep on my stomach, could that be the

cause of my low back pain?

Mary Michael G., Alabaster, AL

Sleeping on your stomach can indeed promote back pain, as well as neck and shoulder pain. If you are having persistent low back pain, I encourage you to get it checked out.

By sleeping on your stomach, your head remains turned in one position for several hours. As a result, one side of your body remains in a contracted or stressed position. As a general rule, I encourage patients to sleep on their side with a firm or memory foam type pillow, on a good mattress, with a pillow between their knees or to sleep on their backs.

If you have low back pain, one thing you can try is lying on the ground and putting your feet up on a chair or on the couch. Elevating your legs can take stress off of your lumbar spine (low back) and the surrounding muscles. According to an article, “Back to Basics” in the journal, Alternative Medicine, there are two stretches you could also try.

The first one is a Simple Leg Raise. Lying flat on your back, slowly lift one leg in the air and then the other, holding each in the air for 10 – 15 seconds while breathing.

You can aid this stretch by using an exercise band. Hold on to each end of the band and loop it over the ball of your foot and gently pull the band to help you stretch your leg. The key is not to try and lift the leg so high that your back begins to arch.

The second stretch is called Knee-to-Chest Stretch. Also performed lying on your back, bend one leg at a time and wrap your hands around your knee with both hands and slowly pull your knee to your chest. When you begin to feel moderate pulling in your low back, hold the position for 10 -15 seconds, let go, and slowly straighten your leg. Do this 5-6 more times, trying to bring your knee a little closer each time.

Low back pain can have numerous causes. However, changing your sleeping position and adding these simple stretches to your routine can help. Again, if your pain persists, I encourage you to have it checked out.

Dr. Roderick White is a Chiropractic Physician and Clinic Director at

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Student dreams of blasting off with NASA Lauren Riley was accepted into the NASA Inspire Engineering program. She is one of almost 4,800 students from 49 states as well as Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam that was accepted.

The Interdisciplinary National Science Project Incorporating Research and Education Experience (INSPIRE) is a multi-tier, year-round program designed for students in 9th to 12th grade who are interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and careers.

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Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 13

Helena’s history Thanks to town historian Ken Penhale, our little town now has a place to teach us about our past

A

large and appreciative crowd enjoyed the opening of the Helena City Museum on Sunday, September 11.

The following Monday evening, Helena historian Ken Penhale was surprised to learn at the City Council meeting that the museum had been officially named the Kenneth R. Penhale Helena City Museum — and deservedly so given Penhale’s years of documenting the area’s history and his collection of artifacts that now have a permanent home.

“The 30 plus old photographs that were enlarged and framed for display probably received the most comments,” Penhale said about the opening. “So much more detail was revealed in the enlargements — some were originally postcards.”

The museum organizes the artifacts into sections revealing their usage in a way that tells their story in a lively manner. The crowd peered

at old tools, mining memorabilia, a country store vignette, a turn-of-the-century home vignette and unique items like the Helena High School report cards circa 1887 and the Keg and Shot Glass Bar Set that Penhale’s grandfather, Charlie Hinds, brought back from his California trip to the 1926 Rose Bowl.

As far back as 1975, Penhale served as president of the Shelby County Historical Society that was responsible for saving the Columbiana Courthouse from demolition. He oversaw the entire restoration — working hands-on with the contractors.

Penhale brought his experience to the second floor of the old Masonic Lodge and says that items are still being added. A military showcase is yet to be debuted and when the proper mannequin is acquired, a dress belonging to Helen Lee’s mother will be on display.

The museum is still in need of male manne-

quins to display donated military uniforms.

During the open house, Mr. and Mrs. Sonny Eccles were special visitors from Birmingham.

Mr. Eccles’ father was a survivor of the 1940 double freight-train wreck in front of the depot.

Locale merchant, Kent Free, admired the museum’s fine arrowhead collection and commented on the Family Temperance Pledge, a large framed document, that would have been signed by households who agreed to “Solemnly Promise to Abstain From the Use of All Intoxicating Drinks As a Beverage.”

Linda Hinds Duke commented she had spoken to three of her former educators during the open house — Irene Mullins, who taught her in 4th grade at Helena Junior High School and Carolyn Knowles, her Physical Education teacher at Thompson High School. Duke was also an office aid at Thompson High School when Charles Knowles was principal.

14 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

WHEN YOU VISIT The new Kenneth R. Penhale Helena City Museum is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

It may be open other days by appointment. Call Ken at 369-1448 to schedule visits other than the times listed above.

Council names Museum for historian Ken Penhale

At left, Ken is presented with a proclamation from the Helena City Council naming the Helena City Museum after him. Pictured at left is Ken with Billy Dean Harris and Councilman Jerry Deon Pate.

Familiar Helena faces such as Kenneth and Irene Mullins, James and Marion Sides, C.W. and Frankie Fulgham, Billy and Frances Hinds, Billy Dean Harris, Ron and Peggy Holly, Cris Nelson and Brian Davidson were seen perusing the museum displays — all bestowing many compliments on the results of Ken Penhale’s painstaking, but rewarding, efforts.

Above, Ken Penhale and his wife, Mary.

At Helena’s Sept. 12 City Council meeting, Councilman Jerry D. Pate read a proclamation on behalf of the council praising lifelong Helena resident and historian Ken Penhale for “his contributions in preserving Helena’s historic past and working tirelessly to put his and others’ memorabilia collections together for present and future generations to look upon and to understand the rich heritage that Helena citizens enjoy.”

It was then announced that Helena’s new museum would be named the Kenneth R. Penhale Helena City Museum.

“They certainly didn’t have to name it after me,” said Ken. “If not Kenneth Penhale, who?” voiced an attendee of the meeting.

Billy D. Harris, former city councilman and a long-tome friend of Ken’s, shared an amusing anecdote or two about Ken’s past, alluding to his love of history and his love for Helena.

Born the third child of four to the late Mary Lou (Hinds) and the late William “Bill” Penhale, Ken attended school at Helena Junior High and then Thompson High School. He went on to attend the University of Montevallo as a history major. He worked for seven years at Ingalls’ Iron Works and 33 years at American Cast Iron Pipe Company, from which he is now retired.

Ken has dedicated a lot of time seeking out and collecting old pictures, artifacts and memorabilia focusing on his hometown of Helena and Shelby County. For the past two years, Ken has worked tirelessly to put together the contents of the new museum.

Ken has been a contributor for the past 17 years to the Helena City News’s “From the Archives” column and is a former president of the Shelby County Historical Society. Ken is co-author of the foremost Helena history “Images of America: Helena, Alabama,” with Martin Everse, a pictorial history of the town currently available at select stores (Walgreens, Books-A-Million, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com).

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 15

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City to discontinue use of fluoride in its drinking water A decision has been reached concerning the fluoridation of the water supply in our city. The facts are that fluoridated water has been shown to reduce cavities in children and adults, but recent advances in dental care products have shown that they are also effective in this regard. Items such as fluoridated toothpastes, mouth washes and rinses are all effective at preventing cavities along with regular brushing and flossing.

Fluoride, or hydrofluorosilicic acid, is an extremely caustic chemical and could pose a health hazard to employees whose job it is to add it to our water. It is so caustic, in fact, that its fumes have etched the glass, corroded the electronics and degraded the integrity of the piping in our main treatment building.

Workers must wear protective clothing and a breathing apparatus in order to work with the chemical. It has rendered several of our main water pumps useless, costing the city a great amount of money to replace them.

Other small towns in our area have already discontinued the use of fluoride, and after careful consideration, we will now join them.

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16 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

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Pickle will hold several public hearings concerning this matter over the coming months and will have maps to show the public which areas are in question so that residents can see whether their property is affected.

The meeting dates and times will be posted in the Helena City News print edition and on Helena City News’ blog, http://helenacitynews.blogspot.com as well as the city’s website at cityofhelena.org.

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Some areas in Helena that were previously listed as “not in the flood plain” are going to be re-classified as “in the flood plain,” according to Helena building official George Pickle.

All the data has not yet been completely evaluated, and some protests are in the process of being filed for areas that city officials know are being reclassified in error. Residents currently living in an area that is prone to flooding and who don’t currently have federal flood insurance, may want to consider adding federal flood coverage to your policy.

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Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 17

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“Our detail specialists, Jason Markos and Michael Bell, are awesome,” said Bryan. “They’ll give your vehicle their attentive best when you bring your car to our shop.”

Bryan became interested in tinting applications for cars in 1993 and expanded into commercial building applications in 2001.

Bryan, who has a second Cutting Edge location in Moody, along with his wife, Becky, are Odenville residents. They have a daughter, Haley Nicole, 13, who plays travel ball with the Hoover Outlaws and their son, Jackson, 7, plays football and baseball.

Bryan races 4-wheelers and says, “It’s my only hobby — something I do for the love of the sport.” His favorite ATV

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The Cutting Edge offers a pickup and delivery detailing program to businesses and schools. They also service Allstate Insurance and Helena Elementary and Intermediate Schools locally.

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Owner Bryan Lindsey has been tinting cars since 1993 and owns a second location in Moody.

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18 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

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This Aion d & Get % 1 0 OFF! Helena attorney honored with Scouts’ National Heroism Medal Helena attorney and Boy Scouts volunteer leader Brian Davidson was presented the National Heroism Medal from the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America for his life-saving actions during a Scouts meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 20.

Davidson’s quick thinking saved the life of Helena Boy Scouts Troop 532 Assistant Leader Julie Hull after she was severely injured in an automobile wreck last July. About 25 Scouts and leaders were returning home from a trip to Charleston, S.C., where they visited Fort Sumter National Monument and the USS Yorktown.

Hull received head injuries and a deep cut on her right arm and was experiencing severe blood loss. Using his Scout skills and emergency first aid training, Davidson applied pressure to stop the blood flow and kept talking to Hull to prevent her from losing consciousness.

Davidson maintained his post until professional medical help arrived.

Hull was airlifted to the Medical College of Georgia Hospital in Augusta, Ga. Davidson also took responsibility for Hull’s son, Ian Hull, and gave assurance that he would see Ian home safely.

An emotional Hull stood with Davidson and his family at the award ceremony to say “Thank you for making it possible for me to be here today.”

The honor came upon recommendation from the Scouts’ National Court of Honor. Very few National Heroism Medals are awarded each year.

Few National Heroism Medals are awarded each year by the Boy Scouts of America. At right, Brian Davidson and Julie Hull embrace during the presentation ceremony.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 19

The new Jason Clayton, 41…

Thank you Snap Fitness!

The journey to change my life began on Oct. 15, 2009, when I weighed nearly 200 pounds. I was sitting on the side of my bed and my wife had a concern about my overweight frame.

That night, I went to join Helena’s Snap Fitness and I’ve been a proud member since.

After a lot of hard work, I lost 30 pounds, which put me at a leaner and thinner 158. Feeling a bit too skinny, I added muscle weight and am now a comfortable 170. I look more fit and feel more healthy.

Snap Fitness really changed my life.

This new transformation has given me more confidence and improved my quality of life in ways that I never thought possible.

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the gym at Snap Fitness—it really feels like you’re part of the family.

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I thank my beautiful wife, Beth, and my supportive children, Chad and Haley, for allowing me go to the gym whenever I need to.

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20Members Fall 2011 ● and Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com Non-Members Welcome for classes!

HELENA’S EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Father. Husband. Musician.

And the ‘guy who waters the hanging baskets’

J

eremy Bongo admits he took a lot of abuse from schoolmates beginning at an early age, as he warded off attackers determined to play his head like . . . yes, a bongo drum.

Born in upstate NY, he and his parents moved progressively down the East coast, and he ended up for a semester at UAB as a theater major.

“I’m more of a musician than a thespian,” he admits right off. “Big on the Karaoke circuit, you know. It’s what I do to relax.”

Word about his “voice like an angel” had already filtered from the doors of Helena City Hall when he was nominated for Employee of the Month, but who knew?

You are more likely to have seen him hanging off the back of the sanitation truck, which was his job for the first two of the four years he has been employed by the city. This job, he says, involves

a good bit of dead animal road rescue and some crazy live and wild animal removals.

After moving over to the Street Department Bongo has been considerably more recognized as the “guy who waters the hanging baskets.”

“Bongo really took an interest in not only just keeping the baskets alive, but in learning about the names and

Helena Councilwoman Barbara Hyche and Helena city worker Jeremy Bongo work extremely hard at keeping our community beautiful. Many thanks to both for doing such a wonderful job.

Below, Bongo with his daughter, Kahlen.

trimming needs of the plants. I have been climbing up a ladder to groom the baskets for too long. I think I will be turning all that over to Bongo next year,” said councilwoman Barbara Hyche who plants each individual basket in late spring.

Bongo is married to Lauren, who is a medical technologist at UAB Hospital, and they are parents to daughter Kahlen, four. We’re told another little Bongo is on the way!

He and Lauren enjoy road trips. They have visited Memphis’ Gibson Guitar Factory and Beale Street where Bongo says he “could live there forever.” Bongo also touts the adventure of attending Dragon Con, the world’s largest fantasy/ SciFi convention held annually over Labor Day in Atlanta.

“You will see the most amazing array of costumed individuals you can imagine,” he says.

Bongo’s interests outside of work are fantasy games like Starship Trooper and sci-fi novels from writers such as Terry Goodkind.

And then there is his guitar, which he has been playing for sixteen years. He gravitates to rock’n’ roll from the ’70s through the ’90s, with a strong streak of the blues thrown in. The Doobie Brothers, Allman Brothers, John Lee Hooker and Muddy Waters are all favorites.

“I could talk music all day,” Bongo said.

And after hearing a solo performance — no karaoke — we also suspect he could happily play music all day.

“I tried out for American Idol,” he says.

“But I couldn’t see me going through the motions as a pop star.”

Check out Bongo’s video to hear for yourself what we all suspect — we’ll definitely be seeing him on a stage beyond Helena.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 21

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22 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

Conchita Hicks shares her family’s story in new book — Leaving Havana Longtime Pelham High School Spanish teacher Conchita Hicks did not set out to write a book and have it published, but sometimes, things just get bigger than you intended.

Her father’s stroke in 2000 made her realize that her family’s story would be forever lost to time if she did not record it.

“I tried for years to get my parents to write down the details of leaving Cuba, but they never did,” she said.

After her father passed in 2005, she pushed even harder for her mother to document memories from her earlier life, but to no avail.

“My mother’s health started failing after my father passed,” she said. Her mother died in 2009.

Conchita was only six-and-a-half-years-old when the Hernandez family immigrated from Cuba to America.

Neither of her two younger sisters recall anything from their life before.

“I really just wanted my children and grandchildren to know about their heritage,” she said.

So in 2009, Conchita began researching and compiling the bits and pieces. With much of the experience already lost with her parents, she relied on her own vague memories from childhood to tell much of the story.

She wrote down all the things she could recall her parents telling her about life in Cuba before communism took hold — that they had been wealthy and had even known Fidel Castro in his younger years. She used the anecdotes and researched the political atmosphere in

Pelham High School Spanish teacher Conchita Hicks details her family’s time in Cuba (pictured above) in her book, Leaving Havana.

Cuba to write their story.

“We weren’t allowed to bring anything with us when we left,” she said. “Each person was allowed to take one suitcase that weighed sixty-six pounds. No valuables and no pictures were allowed to leave the country.”

Many years after the family left, her grandmother, who had remained in Cuba, was finally able to come for a visit. She brought with her the only pictures of the young Hernandez family that ever made it to America.

So, 50 years after their move, Conchita had very little documentation to help her understand, verify or recount

the events surrounding her parents’ difficult decision to leave their homeland behind. After months of writing and researching, Conchita finally took the text of her family history to Kinko’s to have it bound.

“When I saw what they had to offer, I felt like I had put in too much work to have it look like a high school term paper,” she said.

She decided to look into having it published and went back to the editing room to polish up her new book.

Conchita’s book, Leaving Havana, is on sale today at Amazon.com. Order your copy; it is an interesting read.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 23

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Fur-Baby foster homes wanted Two by Two Rescue seeks to help the discarded, distressed and stray dogs of Helena.

If you would like to be a part of the mission, consider being a foster parent.

The rescue will pay for vet care, you just provide love and safety to a pet who needs it.

To learn more about Two by Two Rescue, please visit their website at www.twobytworescue.com.

Remember, their mission is to help the distressed, so they can’t take owner

relinquishments.

Also, donations of chew bones, toys, kennels and used linens are always welcome. Financial donations can be made via Pay Pal on the website.

24 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

Yard of the Month: 401 Chadwick Circle Walter and Judy Douglas have an unusually panoramic yard.

Situated on a corner lot in Chadwick upon entering the neighborhood, you first see their back yard, which oozes charm as landscaping enhances the view of a sunroom and arbor.

“We love this place, and we spend most of our time year round in the sunroom.

We are here until we go to Southern Heritage,” the Douglases say.

When Walter retired from Alabama Power in 1996, they discovered this home and moved from Forestdale when the fourth sector of the neighborhood was just being cleared. They converted the screened porch to a sunroom and added the arbor that for many years was covered with Carolina jasmine.

“The birds took over and built nests in every plant, and their messiness convinced us to eliminate the jasmine eventually.”

Hummingbirds, one dominant runt-sized bird in particular, frequent the feeder that can be seen from the Douglases favorite lounging chairs. A red Japanese maple and azaleas surround the sunroom.

The patio is graced with an assortment of fountains, a wooden porch swing and some representatives from Judy’s collection of pigs.

“Our neighbors really enjoy our yard as well, and one has even told us she wants to hold her wedding under our arbor.”

Judy calls herself a “visual coordinator” and enjoys arranging and changing the vignettes both inside and outside her home. With “just a little hint,” she can be persuaded to do the same for her neighbors and friends. Taking after her mother, Judy is also a devoted thrift shop explorer.

During the last round of storms, the large pear tree that anchored the bed in the corner yard was uprooted, and that area is being replanted. Walter does all the mowing and trimming at home as well as the yards of several neighbors.

Judy and Walter have been married

25 years and have two children and three grandchildren. Members of Hunter Street Baptist Church, they have traveled to Italy, Switzerland, Hawaii and especially enjoyed their visit to the Holy Land. They’ve also spent six exciting weeks in a motorcoach touring Alaska.

The Douglases also emphasize their appreciation for their community and say they pay attention to keeping their tax dollars working here by shopping in Helena whenever possible.

Congratulations to our yard of the month winners!

Fall lawn care pays off come spring Want a better-looking lawn come spring? You might want to start doing some of the work now.

It’s a great time to lay sod and Jeff Brumfield of Allstar Landscaping here in Helena recommends Empire Zoysia, Z-52 Zoysia and BK-7 Zoysia, all which are shade loving. For sun tolerance, Brumfield says Tifton Bermuda is his choice.

It’s also the right time to fertilize turfgrasses, preferably with slow-release, all-natural fertilizer.

When given adequate nutrients,

turfgrasses can store food in the form of carbohydrates during the winter months.

The six-week window prior to the first freeze is also the perfect time to put down a second application of selective, preemergent herbicide.

The first application, usually applied in late winter to early spring, takes care of weed seeds that overwintered in the lawn. The second application deals with weed seeds that were deposited during the summer months. You can buy

all-natural pre-emergent herbicides made from corn gluten.

Know the difference between selective and nonselective herbicides. Selective herbicides target specific weeds or seeds without damaging turf grass or landscape plants in the process.

Nonselective herbicides destroy anything and everything green.

It’s also time to prune summer flowering trees and shrubs. Encore azaleas and Burning Bush can be added to the landscape for late color, and accents of mums and

pansies can last into cold weather.

As the ground cools, you can plant spring flowering bulbs like daffodils, crocus and irises.

In the South, trees planted in fall have a longer season for the roots to get established with less stress from the heat. The tree can put all its energy into root growth. Even though the heat has diminished, don’t put away your hose yet if we should have a dry fall. The rule of thumb is a lawn should get an inch of water every 14 to 21 days.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 25

Please Pray for the Safety of Our Military Personnel and Remember throughout the Year— We are the Home of the Free Because of the Brave!

SGT Jon M. Aaron

AEAN Benjamin Lee Doaks

SSG Maria D. Sanchez

4/14 K CO (DET B), UNIT 43671, FPO AP 96426-3671; Al Anbar, US Navy; NAS Jacksonville, FL; Son of Joe & Tammy Williams, grand- Drill Sgt, Ft. Benning, GA; Wife of 1SG Michael Sanchez, mom of Sebastian, daughter of James & Estrella Hudgins Iraq; Son of Karen Dickinson son of Rev. Clifton & Mattie Taylor

PFC Jonathan R. Barnett

US Army; Calvary Scout-3rd Brigade-1st Armor Div.; Fort Riley, KN; Son of Susan Barnett

PFC Matt Barnett

SSG Jay Gortney

Alabama Army National Guard 20th Special Forces, Iraq; husband of April

SPC Michael Hubbard

US Army; Delta Co.-232nd Medical Battalion; Fort Sam Houston, TX; US Army; Camp Liberty, Iraq; Grandson of Ruth Meadows, husband of Son of Susan Barnett Kimberly, brother of Bonnie Hubbard

Lt. Commander David Kang

SGT Steven M Bennett

US Navy; Japan; Son of Stanley & Sue Kang, sister Sunny Kang

US Army; Paratrooper/Rigger; Fort Benning, GA; Son of Clara & Ken Lorino

CW3 Corey Lefebvre

SFC Eric Bond

US Army; Fort Rucker, Ala.; Son of Tom Lefebvre

SRA Mitch Braswell

US Army ; Ft Stewart , Ga, Son of Beth Eades and new husband of Caitylyn McClesky-Lenoir

US Army;, 82nd Airborne, 1-504 PIR; Baghdad, Iraq; Cousin of Paul Zimmerman USAF; 16th EMS, 16th Special Op. Wing; Afghanistan; Son of Mike & Judi Braswell

PVT Vincent Brown

USMC; Stationed in Chesapeake, VA; Son of Leonetta Prevo

SGT Paul Bushnell

USMC; Expeditionary Unit deployed from 29 Palms, CA; Son of Bill & Julie English, Sarah’s husband

PVT 1st Class Jacob S. Lenoir

1SG Michael D. Sanchez

Camp Lindsey, Afghanistan; Husband to SSG Maria Sanchez, dad of Sebastian, son of James & Estrella Hudgins

SPC Adam T. Saulters

US Army; 82nd Airborne Division, Iraq; Son of Patty Saulters, brother of Casee Saulters

SPC Patrick D. Sharp

US Army, 82nd Airborne; Al Asad, Iraq; Son of Shawn Sharp

SPC Ashley Bruce Squires

US Army (3rd Inf. Div., 1-30 Inf.); Ft. Stewart, GA; Father of Jesi Mason Squires, son of Bruce & Tammy, brother of Aubrey & Austin

Cpl Rodney Stephens

Petty Officer 3rd Class Erik B. McKenzie

Army National Guard; 152nd Military Police Task Force 382nd, Iraq; Father of Andrea & AnnaBelle

2nd Lt. Jacob Allen Meins

Deputy Commander; 11th Aviation Command, Fort Knox, KY; Husband of Karole, father of John, Zach & Ashley

US Navy; USS Curtis Wilber, Yokosuka, Japan; Son of Bond & Lisa McKenzie, Brooke’s brother, Megan’s husband USAF, Air Force Special Operations Command; Son of Kathy Meins Martin

COL John “Mark” Traylor

HM2 Daniel Mills

2LT John M Traylor, Jr

US Air Force; 325th Air Control Squadron; Tyndall AFB, FL.; Son US Navy; Marine Corp Training & Advisory Group; Yemen; Helena Fire of Mark & Karole Traylor SGT Dallas C Caviness Department Firefighter/Paramedic US Army; 172 Infantry Brigade; Germany; Husband of Rebecca, Father of RCT Zachary S Traylor Norah, Son of Rhonda & brother of Devin MSG Jacqueline M. Moore USMC; Marine Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC; Son of Mark & US Army, 387th; Wichita, KS; Wife of Leroy E. Lucas, mother of 2nd Lt. William B. Cofer Karole Traylor Cameshia, Shaun, Chibukia & Chris US Army ; Fort Benning, GA; Son of Dorothy & Jim Cofer, brother of SGT John Christian Vansant Deborah, boyfriend of Kristen Beam VMMT 204 Flightline, MCAS New River, NC; Son of Keith & Sherill SSgt Christopher S Murphy LCPL Roberto M Conde Vansant USMC; MWHS 3, San Diego, CA; Son of Jack & Karen USMC; Expeditionary Unit deployed from Camp Lejeune, NC; Son of Murphy. husband of Alyssa Major Maxwell B. Ward Robert & Aurette Conde Army Reserve; Afghanistan; Husband of Kathie, dad of Maggie, son of Bette LT Kimberly A. Oelschlager Petty Officer 1st Class Austin C. Daniel Ward, brother of Michelle (Lin) Saville US Navy ROTC Unit-University of Pennsylvania; Daughter of Ted & US Navy; Norfolk, VA; Son of Mike & Claudia Daniel, brother of Adam Walton the late Sara Oelschlager Justin, Tatum & Autumn US Navy; USS Nimitz; Son of Randy & Peggy Walton, brother of Petty Officer 1st Class Termaine J. Pruitt 2nd Lt Eric C Darrenkamp Annalee US Army; Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, HI; Son of Carol US Navy; Guam; Husband of Loretta, father of Termaine Jr, Trevorn, Chelicia & Tristin, son of Janice & Austin Pruitt Darrenkamp, brother of Jon & Stephen E-mail Helena active duty military personnel’s name, address and where they’re stationed to LT James Brooks Dickey PVC Dwight A Rosse Jr. 1999 Stephanie Ct, Auburn, AL 36830; Son of Charlie & Janie Brooks / US Army; 1-32 Cav 1st Bct, Fort Campbell, Ky; Son of Dwight & Michelle helenacitynews@aol.com.

Janet & Dennis Dickey Rosse, brother of Britney & Carlton If your loved one has returned, please let us know.

Changing Jobs? Retiring?

1. What should you be doing to plan for retirement?

2. What options do you have with your 401(k) when you change jobs?

3. What about planning for your child’s education?

4. Are you prepared?

Call now if you’ve ever asked yourself these questions.

Let my experience work for you!

Cindy Chandler, CFP

®

www.ChandlerFinancialGroup.com

Office (205) 620-9499 • cindy@chandlerfinancialgroup.com Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through Sunset Financial Services, Inc., 3520 Broadway Kansas City, MO 64111 (816) 753-7000 (Home Office) Member FINRA/SIPC. Chandler Financial Group, Inc. is not affiliated with SFS.

Helena students get top honors at University of Alabama at Birmingham These Students from Helena have made the Presidential and Dean’s List for UAB 2010/2011: Amber D. Peek, Presidential Honors List Anna R. Morgan, Dean’s List Jonathan Boyd, Dean’s List Zachery D. Fancher, Dean’s List Julie R. Covington, Dean’s List Catherina S. Vestri, Dean’s List.

We are proud of these students who

represent the City of Helena so well.

Congratulations!

3Excellent Good Average Poor Unacceptable

26 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

Ready to be thin again?

Sponsored by…

Slim Down Challenge makes a comeback courtesy of Helena City News & Snap Fitness

Y

ou may remember a few years back the Helena City News’ Slim Down Challenge.

It was a weight loss competition with overweight contestants from Helena and Pelham squaring off against each other to see who could lose the most weight using a sensible, guided approach that incorporated healthy eating, exercise and lifestyle changes to reduce their body mass.

In the three years the program ran, contestants lost an average of 50 lbs each during the four-month program.

The problem was keeping it off. Most of the contestants did not join the gym and maintain the skills they learned, so they ended up putting back on the poundage they lost.

This year, the plan will be much the same as in the past with one exception — contestants chosen will be required to join the gym we use for one year in the hope that if they are paying for a gym membership, they will find it easier to stay on their maintenance plan and make their new-found weight loss a permanent change.

Here’s the kind of people we’re looking for: • People with at least 50 lbs to lose.

• People who are basically healthy.

(This program incorporates regular, healthy eating with a vigorous exercise regimen, so you must obtain a physical and a doctor’s release to participate.)

• People who are motivated not to win a contest but to make a permanent change in their lives.

• People who are willing and able to buy a monthly gym membership for at least one year.

If you fit the above criteria, send us three recent pictures (front, back and side), and tell us a little about yourself.

Email the info to: helenacitynews@aol.com.

We will select 6 people from Helena to participate in this program, which will start in January of 2012.

So go ahead — all you have to lose in the first four months of next year is about 50 lbs!

A special thanks to Snap Fitness in Helena for partnering with us this year.

They have a proven record of success in helping people get back on track in the health and fitness department.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 27

Pelham High School graduates on Auburn Modeling Board

Stephen Pitts back from his adventure in Western Canada

You didn’t know Auburn University had a Modeling Board? Now you do.

In fact, two former Pelham High School students, Emily Busby, at right, and Helena’s own Kaitlyn Webb, below, are on the board.

Emily is Vice President of the executive board this year.

The Auburn University Modeling Board is currently comprised of 31 students.

Carefully selected by a panel of judges after an audition and interview selection process which is held every fall semester, members represent the diversity of the Auburn student body, embodying all nationalities.

Members participate in fashion shows and special events throughout the year in the Auburn/Opelika area and beyond.

The Auburn University Modeling Board can also be found in several print advertisements and campaigns in the local community.

The board has an annual philanthropic fashion show every October to benefit breast cancer awareness called “Couture for the Cure.”

At the show, models wear clothing from local boutiques around Auburn.

World traveler at such a young age?

Believe it.

Stephen Pitts recently explored Western Canada, learning as much as he could learn, seeing as much as he could see. If his journal of the trip is any indication, there was plenty to do.

From Calgary to Vancouver, Stephen celebrated a series of firsts, including his first airplane ride. And just in time for Halloween is an account of visiting Craigdarroch Castle, which is supposed to be haunted.

Want to read about Stephen’s trip for yourself? His entire journal can be downloaded by visiting http://tinyurl. com/StephenKPitts.

You can see 150 of Stephen’s best photos from his trip at http://StephenKPitts. phanfare.com.

Way to go Stephen, and we can’t wait to hear about your next trip.

SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS 2011 – 2012 School Calendar

JOB FAIR FOR MATURE WORKERS (50+) Tuesday, October 18th 8:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Pelham First Baptist Church

2867 Pelham Parkway, Pelham, AL AWARE (Aging Workers Are Reliable Employees) A Division of Positive Maturity, Inc., A United Way Partner

Jan 3.........................Teacher Workday (No Students/Offices Open)

This is a unique opportunity for mature workers who are looking for employment or a change in careers. For job seekers there is no charge. Applications are available on site. Job skills workshops will be conducted during the event.

Jan 4.............................. 2nd Semester Begins, Full Day for Students

Talented, creative ad designer wanted

Nov 11............. Veterans Day Observed (Schools & Offices Closed) Nov 23-25.............. Thanksgiving Break (Schools & Offices Closed) Dec 20 . ................ 1st Semester Ends, Students Dismissed at 1 P.M. Dec 21-Jan 3.......................................................Christmas Holidays

Jan 16................M.L. King, Jr. Birthday (Schools & Offices Closed) Feb 20.............................Presidents Day/1st Inclement Weather Day ..........................................(Closed Unless Needed as Make-up Day) Mar 19-23......................... Spring Break (Schools & Offices Closed) Mar 26............................................Teacher Workday (No Students) Apr 20...................................................2nd Inclement Weather Day ...................(Closed Unless Needed as Make-up Day/Offices Open) May 23..........................2nd Semester Ends, Schools Close at 3 P.M. May 24........................................................High School Graduation May 24............................................Teacher Workday (No Students) May 28........................... Memorial Day (Schools & Offices Closed) www.shelbyed.k12.al.us

Experience with Indesign, Photoshop and Illustrator Looking for creative individual to fill part time position designing ads. Digital photography experience helpful. Submit resumes to CityNewsGroup@ aol.com.

28 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

Watch for our Money-Saving Circulars in the Mail!

Health Tips of the Month:

Cold or Flu?

COLDS often start with a sore throat that gets worse over a day or so. FLU comes on all at once and leaves you hurting all over and with a fever. A sore throat not accompanied by a fever is most often a cold. Fever with body aches are most often the FLU. The best prevention for both is simple regular hand washing with soap and warm water for 20 seconds.

If you suspect you have the FLU, see your doctor and start taking an antiviral drug within 48 hours to shorten its duration. OTC medicines can help minimize the symptoms of both COLD and FLU. Be sure to get a FLU shot or nasal mist to keep FLU at bay.

Email: HelenaHometownPharmacy@gmail.com

We know you have lots of options when it comes to where you have your prescriptions filled. Your hometown independent pharmacy has made a significant investment in the community and is here when you need us— sponsoring community events, little league teams and doing everything we can to earn your confidence and your business. A myth is that an independent pharmacy is more expensive than a chain, when often, the opposite is true. We want and need your business. Please come and give us the chance to earn it.

Find us on

745-EZRX (3979)

www.HelenaHometownPharmacy.com

5129 Hwy 17

(Across from Express Oil)

THIS IS THE BOOT CAMP YOU’VE BEEN HEARING ABOUT! Helena’s ONLY Nationally Recognized Fitness Boot Camp offers you 4 weeks of fun outdoor activities to help you reach your fitness goals FAST!

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Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 29

Helena Intermediate School dashes to be healthy with Healthy Heart Fun Run Helena Intermediate School held A special thanks to Oak Mountain its annual Healthy Heart Fun Run in Orthodontics and Dr. Priscila Denny September and it was a huge success. (pictured inset), for donating 1,000 Students and staff walked or ran T-shirts for participants to wear during more than 2,000 miles in the event. the run.

Grand total for donations was $22,463.

These funds will be used by the HIS PTO to purchase additional technology equipment for the school and to support other projects there.

Each class was encouraged to raise $1000.00. Seven classes exceeded that goal.

As a reward, students participated in a water balloon drop over their teachers’ heads.

The school’s goal was to raise $20,000.

Since that goal was met and exceeded, assistant principal Genet Holcomb had a water balloon dropped over her head, too. The two students who raised the most money, Robin Beems and Kylie Jones, Mrs. Holcomb hugs top earners Robin were given the honor of Beems and Kylie Jones. dropping the water balloon on Mrs. Holcomb’s head.

Dr. Priscila Denny with Anna Peoples and Emeline Thornton wearing the T-shirts Oak Mtn. Orthodontics donated for the run.

Christmas trees help boys build character The Christmas season is nearly upon us and the boys of Helena’s Boy Scout Troop 2 and Boy Scout Troop 532 will soon be selling trees for Helenites to take home and decorate.

Sales will help fund the troops’ activities throughout the year. And according to Troop 532, when one purchases a tree from a Scout, they are helping him take part in an active character- building program.

Troop 2 has over 40 Active Scouts and will use the funds to help with infrastructure, equipment needs and the building of a new Scout Lodge in Helena.

Troop 532 has been a part of Helena’s heritage for more than 40 years. In fact, Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale once served as Scoutmaster for the boys of the troop.

BSA Troop 2 of Helena, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Helena, will be conducting its annual Christmas Tree sale at the intersection of County Road 52 and Hwy. 261, across from the Helena Post Office.

Troop 2’s sale begins Friday Nov. 25, and runs to Wednesday, Dec. 21.

They promise a selection of grade A premium Balsam, Fraser Firs and Blue Spruces. They will deliver for free in a limited geographic area around the Helena, Pelham and Alabaster area.

Troop 532’s Christmas tree lot is on Hwy. 119 across from Thompson Intermediate School. They will open the lot on Friday, Nov. 25, with a selection of Fraser Firs.

Troop 532 is chartered by Helena United Methodist Church. They meet each Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. in the Scout trailers just behind the church.

30 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

L-R: (back) Laura Cochran-sponsor, Kiera Hiatt, McKay Wilkins, Aby Lindley, Tristin Sharp, Katie Thomas, Karlie Lawson, Pressley Sherer, (front) Katie Belue, MerryMichael Ramsey, Savanna Windham, Maddie Gathings, Shelby Bradford, Marissa Wilkins, Megan Aenchbacher and Hayley Barber.

The Pantherettes award winners at UDA camp The 2011-2012 Pelham High School Pantherettes attended the UDA (Universal Dance Association) camp at the University of Alabama. The dance team’s honors included: First Place for their Home Routine, a Superior Trophy, Leadership Award, and the Spirit Stick.

Congratulations, ladies, your hard work and dedication paid off!

August 2011 Market Statistics for Homes Sold in Helena (Single Family Residences)

Units sold: 24 Average list price: $182,428 Average sold price: $173,508 Average days on market: 148

Graham & Associates, cpas Serving Shelby County for 25 years!

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Compare August 2010 Units sold: 18 Average list price: $214,016 Average sold price: $198,972 Average days on market: 197 There are currently 168 homes for sale in Helena ranging from $76,900 to $1 million, according to Birmingham MLS.

Helena firemen think pink The Helena Fire Department’s breast cancer awareness T-shirts for 2011 are in. Helena firemen will be selling and wearing the shirts in October to raise money for breast cancer research.

Each shirt is $15. Buy your own and support a worthy cause.

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Your Tax Professionals in Shelby County offering…

L-R: Crystal Jones, Accountant, Denise Graham, CPA, Angel Brown, Sally Truxal (& below, Steve Emerson, CPA)

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Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 31

Attention Investors!

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Jane B. Holmes Public Library — News and Notes

From Library Director Daniel Dearing Good day to you, Fall is in full swing at the Jane B. Holmes Public Library. Fall is an important time at the library, and there is barely time to breathe as our Summer Reading Program ended and school started back.

Speaking of school, remember the library is a great place to work on academic success. In addition to great non-fiction books in many areas, the library also has good computer access with very reasonable printing prices and a self-service copier. Make sure to bring your card and keep it up to date.

Also, do not forget your pleasure reading. Reading is a great way to take a quick break from studying and sharpen your skills…and catch up on your favorite authors!

People often ask if the library accepts donations. The library is a non-profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible. The library gladly accepts monetary donations as well as books, movies, and music in good condition. Stop by for a list of other items that can help as well.

For anyone who is interested in The Friends of the Jane B. Holmes Public Library, our next meeting is Thursday, October 20 at 6:00 p.m.

Upcoming Dates Nov. 11 Library Closed in observance of Veterans Day

New Hours: Mon. 10-7, Tues. 10-6, Wed. 10-6, Thurs. 10-7, Fri. 10-5, Sat. 10-2, Closed Sun.

www.shelbycounty-al.org • 664-8308

32 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

HMS welcomes its new head girls’ basketball coach

HMS Boys’ & Girls’ Basketball games, 2011-12 Nov. 8, Oak Mountain 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Nov. 10, Columbiana 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Nov. 15, Calera 4:30 (Girls) /5:45 / 7:00 Nov. 17, John Carroll 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Nov. 21, Briarwood 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Nov. 22, Westminster 4:30 *** (Girls only) Nov. 29, Chelsea 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Dec. 1, Riverchase 4:15 / 5:30 (Girls) / 6:45 Dec. 5, Berry 4:30 / 5:45 *** (Boys only) Dec. 8, Columbiana 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Dec. 12, Calera 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Dec. 15, John Carroll 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Dec. 20, Nichols Lawson 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Jan. 3, Briarwood 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Jan. 5, Chelsea 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 Jan. 10, Riverchase 4:30 / 5:45 (Girls) / 7:00 *** Nov. 4, 5 Thompson Tournament Girls Tournament *** Nov. 18, 19 Thompson Tournament Boys Tournament *** January 12, 13 and 14 are the dates of our Southern Conference Tournament. *** John Carroll is hosting the Girl’s Tournament / Calera is hosting the Boy’s Tournament

HMS coaches Kane Peckham, Clay Wolford and Lindsey Minton.

Helena Middle School Panthers ready to hit the basketball court Even though Helena Middle School has only been open three years, there have been several exceptional athletes in all sports go on to start at the high school level.

A lot of that fact has to do with God-given talent and the other is great coaching, of which HMS has the cream of the crop.

The Helena Panthers, both boys and girls, worked hard this summer on and off the court to get ready for an exciting basketball season.

Kane Peckham, social studies teacher, will take over the helm as head coach of the HMS 8th grade boys’ basketball team. He had previously coached the school’s girls’ basketball team, and he said he was proud of their winning record the past three seasons he coached.

“Although I am sad to be leaving the girls program, I am excited about the opportunity to work with the boy’s team,” Coach Peckham said.

With nine years experience coaching both girls’ and boys’ basketball, three at rival Riverchase Middle School, as well as three as

Boston butts help teams raise needed funds Helena Middle School’s boys’ and girls’ basketball teams are raising

an assistant baseball coach, Coach Peckham brings a wealth of experience and excitement to the court.

This year Clay Wolford joined HMS as head coach of the 7th grade boys’ basketball team. He was an assistant basketball coach at Berry Middle School last year.

With a passion for coaching youth sports and teaching children the importance of being physically active. Coach Wolford will graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in May with a degree in Physical Education.

He is married, has a son and another baby is on the way. Congratulations!

Both Coach Peckham and Wolford are excited about the level of talent on both teams for the upcoming season, and they would like to thank Coach Floyd of Pelham High for his assistance during summer team workouts.

“We look forward to the community’s continued support of our great programs here at Helena Middle School,” Coach Peckham said.

Go Panthers! money by selling Boston butts from Firehouse BBQ. Funds raised to purchase uniforms and equipment. Butts cost $30 and tickets will be sold starting Oct. 14.

You can pick up your butt on

Welcome, lady, to the Lady Panthers.

Lindsey Minton is the new head girls’ basketball coach at Helena Middle School.

Lindsey was a true three-sport athlete at Piedmont High School dominating in basketball, softball and volleyball until graduating in 2005.

While attending Jacksonville State University and working toward her degree, she coached and played all intramural sports: basketball, softball (champions one year), volleyball, racquetball (winning team two years) and dodge ball.

In her spare time she also coached Piedmont Developmental Basketball League (4-6 grade) finishing with a 13-2 record; served as a Volleyball Official for the East Alabama Volleyball Officials Association; and was named 2007 All Sorority Sportswoman of the Year.

In 2009, Lindsey earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, with a concentration in Biology.

While Lindsey continued her education at JSU, when she was not in the classroom as a student or a biology/anatomy lab instructor, she continued to play on the intramural racquetball team (winning both years, of course), and studying the effects of the oil spill on grass shrimp through a grant from BP. She graduated with an MS in Biology in December 2010.

HMS’s highly educated and phenomenal athlete Coach Lindsey Minton has proven her ability to coach with a developmental league and we are excited to see what she has in store for our young Lady Panthers on the basketball court this season.

Congratulations to Coach Minton and best of luck to the Lady Panthers on a successful season.

Wednesday, Nov. 9, between 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Helena Middle School’s back parking lot at 1299 Hillsboro Parkway.

For more information, please email Coach Kane Peckham at kpeckham@shelbyed.k12.al.us.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 33

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Marathon runner Stepfanie Phillips is Snap Fitness’ newest trainer Stefanie, 32, started running and working out just five years ago, but it quickly became a way of life for her and she is happy today to serve as a trainer for Snap Fitness.

“Exercise can change anybody’s life for the better, and the time to start is NOW, no matter your current fitness level,” she said.

Stefanie has run eight half marathons, five full marathons and ultra marathon (30 plus miles) and lots of 5Ks and 10Ks. “I run and work out on a daily basis to stay in shape and improve. I believe that fitness is wellness. It is my passion, and I love to share it! My goal is to help people get fit, get healthy and get moving toward a healthier lifestyle.”

If you are thinking of starting an exercise plan, call Stefanie today at Helena’s Snap Fitness, 664-2600.

34 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

Calendar of Events Regular Weekly Events Mondays Fire Explorers at Station 2, 5 p.m.

Tuesdays Storytime at Jane B. Holmes Library, 11 a.m.

Tuesdays Kiwanis Club at Helena Senior Citizens Center, 7 a.m.

Thursdays Storytime at Jane B. Holmes Library, 11 a.m.

Thursdays Police Explorers at Helena Explorers Post, 4 p.m.

October Breast Cancer Awareness Month

18th - Mature Workers Job Fair, First Baptist Pelham Annex, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

- Buck Creek Civitans Meeting, Nino’s Restaurant Hwy 31 Pelham, 7 p.m.

20th - Friends of the Library Meeting, Jane B. Holmes Library, 6 p.m.

21st - Pelham vs Homewood (Senior Night), PHS Ned Bearden Stadium, 7 p.m.

24th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6 p.m.

27th - Planning & Zoning Commission, Helena Municipal Building, 6 p.m.

- 30th Middle Eastern Food Festival, St. George’s Church, Oct. 27-29 www.saintgeorgeonline.org 28th - Helena Elementary Fun Run: 2nd 8-9 a.m.; 1st 9-10 a.m.; 5k 10-11 a.m.

- Helena Intermediate Annual Fall Festival, 6-10 p.m., For more information, call 682-5520 29th - Helena Intermediate Annual Fall Festival, All Day Event, For more information, call 682-5520 - Oak Mountain State Park First Annual Fall Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

31st - Halloween – Please drive carefully and watch for trick-or-treaters

November 1st - HBPA Meeting, La Reunion, 8 a.m.

- Buck Creek Civitans Meeting, Nino’s Restaurant Hwy 31 Pelham, 7 p.m.

2nd - Emergency Siren Test, 10 a.m.

5th - Last Old Town Wild West Trade Days of 2011, 2nd Street in Old Town, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

6th - Daylight Savings Time ends, Fall Back One Hour before retiring Saturday night 10th - Friday’s garbage will be collected one day early with Thursday route, November 10 11th - Veterans Day Observed–Municipal Offices Shelby Co. Schools Closed NO GARBAGE COLLECTION, Thursdays & Fridays routes will be collected a day early, Thursday, November 10 14th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6 p.m.

15th - Buck Creek Civitans Meeting, Nino’s Restaurant Hwy 31 Pelham, 7 p.m.

17th - Planning & Zoning Commission, Helena Municipal Building, 6 p.m.

19th - Aaron’s Staff Respite Care (special needs care, ages 0-21), Linda Nolen Learning Center, 4-9 p.m. Must reserve 620-5004 23rd - Shelby County Schools Thanksgiving Holiday November 23-25 - Thursday’s garbage will be collected along with usual Wednesday route 24th - Municipal Offices Closed in observance of Thanksgiving November 24-25 NO GARBAGE COLLECTION NOV. 24, Thursday’s garbage will be collected one day early with regular Wednesday route, November 23 25th - Friday’s garbage will be collected as usual on November 25 28 th - Helena City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6 p.m.

- Helena Elementary Santa Shop November 28-December 2 - Helena Intermediate Lunch Room Staff Appreciation Week Nov. 28-Dec. 2 December 3rd - 41st Annual Helena Christmas Parade, theme “A Small Town Christmas, 1:30 p.m.

For info visit www.cityofhelena.org

Come see our beautiful and unique dresses for all special occasions from homecoming, pageants, prom and sorority events.

We are located at 8919 Hwy 119 Suite 102 in Alabaster.

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Current customers refer a friend to us , Inc. and receive a restaurant gift card!

Complete Auto Service CarCare will maintain your Honda, Acura, Toyota & Lexus factory warranty with all scheduled maintenance.

CarCare uses factory parts to ensure your repair is done right. We never guess. Instead, we take the time to properly diagnose your vehicle so when you leave our shop, you can be sure it was done right.

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Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 35

Basic Hints to Help New Small Businesses Folks starting a small business are often challenged by their new tax filing requirements. It can be overwhelming to learn about federal tax responsibilities.

The following is a list of basic tips to avoid potential problems: • Classify workers properly as employees or independent contractors as determined by law, not the choice of the worker or business owner.

• Deposit federal employment taxes, called trust fund taxes, according to the appropriate schedule.

• Start making estimated quarterly payments to cover your own income tax and social security self-employment tax liability.

• Keep good records to protect your personal and financial investment and to make tax filing easier.

• Consider a tax professional to help you with schedule C. • File and pay your taxes electronically. It’s fast, easy, and secure.

• Protect financial and tax records to ensure business continuity in the event of a disaster.

Starting a new business?

Give us a call today. As always, we’re here to help sort out your tax responsibilities.

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C I T Y O F H ELEN A 2011 Holiday Garbage Pick-up Schedule

Veterans Day — Friday, November 11, 2011 City Hall Closed Thursday and Friday’s routes will be picked up on Thursday, November 10, 2011 Thanksgiving Day — Thursday, November 24, 2011 City Hall Closed Wednesday and Thursday’s routes will be picked up on Wednesday, November 23, 2011 Friday’s route will be picked up on Friday, November 25, 2011 Christmas Eve — Friday, December 23, 2011 City Hall Closed Thursday and Friday’s routes will be picked up on Thursday, December 22, 2011 Christmas Day — Monday, December 26, 2011 City Hall closed Monday and Tuesday’s routes will be picked up on Tuesday, December 27, 2011 New Year’s Day — Monday, January 2, 2012 City Hall Closed Monday and Tuesday’s routes will be picked up on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 YOU MUST HAVE YOUR GARBAGE CURBSIDE BY 6:00 A.M.

PICKETT

Eagle Scout project feeds water to Helena’s Troop 2 lodge In 2010, Jerry Pate took some of the local Scouts to the site of the future Kiwanis Community Center (and Troop 2 Scout Lodge) and showed them around.

It was then Alex Wurstner decided on his Eagle Scout project: installing a water line to the lodge site. It would also include a hydrant so they could have water on site for camp outs and work days.

Alex had 3-inch pipe donated by Mr. Scott Carpenter and Consolidated Pipe. Ferguson Plumbing of Pelham donated 1-inch pipe to run up to the lodge and V&W Plumbing, also of Pelham, gave him a discount on the plumbing supplies.

And, of course, the City of Helena donated countless hours installing the 3-inch pipe to the Community Center property, and Alex and the scouts of Troop 2 took it on up to the lodge and capped it off for future use and also diverted the line into the woods for the hydrant.

Troop Master Plumber, Randy Beers, helped with the connections and was also a mentor for Alex on all things plumbing related.

Alex met with city officials and plumbing suppliers, along with Mr. Beers, in order to carry out the project.

It was just inspected by George Pickle, building official for the City of Helena, last week and it passed inspection.

Alex plans to install a concrete base around the hydrant with a plaque noting his Eagle Project.

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36 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

LICENSED & INSURED OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

5K walk brings attention to suicide prevention in Helena Bessemer police officer Ben McCay knows first-hand the tragic face of suicide.

At Helena’s inaugural 5K Walk for Suicide Prevention on Oct. 1, McCay walked in memory of his friend, Zachary, who took his own life four years ago.

Zachary’s death left his and Ben’s families grief stricken and with unanswered questions.

In his line of work, McCay is sometimes faced with helping strangers through difficult times.

“I go on attempted suicide calls all the time, the latest about two weeks ago,” said McCay. “You try to take advantage of the limited time you have to offer help.

Unfortunately, this economy doesn’t help (the situation).”

Last year in Helena alone, there were

18 suicides and 12 more attempts.

At the 5K walk, 40 people hit the pavement to raise awareness of the issue.

The walk, which followed the Panther Prowl route from Helena Middle School, was sponsored by the City of Helena and Hands Across Helena, a group of citizens, clergy and city officials concerned about the number of suicides in our city.

Finishing the walk in 31 minutes were Helena residents Ben and Kelly McCay. If you missed the walk, there is another on Nov. 6 at Heardmont Park. The Out of the Darkness Community Walk is sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. If you would like to be on the Hands Across Helena team, contact its team captain, Roxann Edsall, at 205-533-0910.

First finishers Kelly and Ben McCay, front, completed the 5K walk in 31 minutes.

Reach 12,200 Pelham and Indian Springs residents and businesses!

Advertise with us in the Pelham City News, too!

HELENA’S

Landscape Supply And Nursery

If you think witches, ghosts, and goblins are scary, wait until spring and look at the weeds in your yard if you don’t use fertilome and Hi Yield on your lawn this fall. You can never use enough pre-emergent! Treating your lawn in the off season is the best way to prevent weeds in the spring. We recommend Hi Yield with deminsion as a pre-emergent and Weed Free Zone as a post emergent during the cooler weather.

Be on the lookout for fall items like pumpkins, mums and pansies, cabbage and kale. These items will be arriving at the nursery when the time is right. Stop by and see Brandon, and let him know what you are looking for, or give him a call at 621-5255. Fall is considered to be the best time to install plants for many reasons. Most plants are headed to their dormant season so the plants are not growing much and therefore require less effort from you. We are also headed toward our natural rainy season, so less watering by you. Call the local experts at Helena’s Landscape Supply and Nursery when you need help with your planning or installation. We also can clean your gutters and do fall lawn clean ups as well. Call the office or come in and we will schedule an appointment just for you. And don’t forget to check the sign out front for special sales events and reminders.

It is our goal at Helena’s Landscape Supply and Nursery to help you every way we can with your outdoor projects. So come on by, say hello to Buddy, and lets get going on your new project. We are located at 4726 Highway 52 in downtown Helena, or call us at 621-5255.

Now that the kids are back in school…

It’s time to get organized—and we’ve got a spare garage!

Buy a full page, full color ad for less than a nickel per address!

For more info, go to www.PelhamCityNews.com or call 746-1188.

XYZ (eXtra Years of Zest) Club weekly activities held at the Helena Senior Citizens Center Located at 222 Tucker Road, behind city hall and next to the library Monday 10:00 am Chair Aerobics: Fun & gentle workout Tuesday 11:00 am-3:00 pm Cards & Games: Bring a sack lunch & join the fun Thursday 10:00 am Chair Aerobics Fun and gentle workout Friday 5:00 pm Social Time: Come see what fun is in store For more information, contact Liz Morris at 664-1946.

Office: Mon-Fri 8am–6pm • Sat 8am–5pm Sun 1-5pm • Gate: Open 6am–9pm daily Hwy 17 at Hwy 58, Helena

620-5353

Shelby County Drug Free Coalition message “The adolescent brain is not mature enough to avoid risktaking and many youth do not think before they act.

It’s important to talk to your kids about the risks and consequences of using alcohol, tobacco and other drugs often throughout their development.” www.familyconnection-inc.org/coalition/

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Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 37

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Churches

New Bethel A.M.E. Church Highway 261 • 201-5531 Pastor Rev. Wilma Merriweather Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

METHODIST

Helena United Methodist Church 2035 County Road 58 • 663-0111 Pastor Rev. Michael Edmondson • helenaumc.org Worship 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Modern Worship Sunday 7:19 p.m.

The Church at Cahaba Bend BAPTIST 3721 Highway 52 West • 621-8060 CrossBridge Community Church Pastor Rev. Lyle Holland • cahababend.org Starkey Street (off Hwy 261) • 621-2695 Sunday School 9:30 & 10:45 a.m.

Pastors Morrell Aldridge, Harris Cook & Bruce Squires Contemporary Worship 9:30 & 10:45 a.m. crossbridgehelena.com Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.

NAZARENE Wednesday Prayer Service 6:30 p.m.

Trinity Church of the Nazarene Laurel Woods Dr. & Hwy 58 • 664-4659 First Baptist Church Helena Pastor Rev. David Shirer • nazarene.ch/trinity/ 3616 Helena Road • 663-7879 Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

Senior Pastor Dr. Mark DeVine, Pastor Greg Walker Morning Worship 10:00 a.m. fbhelena.org Sunday Bible Study 9:30 a.m.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Celebration Church Gospel Light Baptist Church Meets at Helena Intermediate • 602-0805 5781 Roy Drive • 685-0772 Pastor David Bradford • hiscelebrationchurch.com Pastor Steve Kilpatrick • glbcbham.com Small Groups/Bible Study 9:15 a.m.

Sunday Bible Study 10:00 a.m.

Contemporary Worship 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m.

Cornerstone Church Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church 2694 Highway 58 • 663-9332 Highway 261 • 663-5257 Pastor Rev. Tim Trimble Pastor Rev. Edwin D. Dinkins • mpbchelena.com Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

New Vision Christian Church New Elam Baptist Church 2383 Highway 95 • 664-4333 Cunningham Drive Pastor Van C. Houser, Sr. • nvcc4god.org Pastor Rev. Lester Sun. Corporate Prayer 9:00 a.m.

Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship 10:15 a.m.

Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

SNS@HIS Riverside Baptist Church Meets at Helena Intermediate 1919 Highway 52 West • 426-1910 Teacher/Leader Dr. Wayne Williams Pastor J.J. Stanbridge • e-mail: jj@rbchelena.org Sunday Night Service 6:00 p.m.

Sunday Worship 9:00 a.m.

Voice of Faith International Ministries Sunday Bible Study 10:30 a.m.

1560 Cunningham Drive • 663-7396 Pastor Rev. Franklin L. Kirksey Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church 6700 Highway 13 • 424-4539 Sunday Worship 7:00 a.m.

Pastor Rev. Randy Keef Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.

Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

PRESBYTERIAN Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

Christ Community Church Meets at Helena Elementary • 621-6248 CHRISTIAN-DISCIPLES OF CHRIST Pastor Phil Chambers • cccbham.org Grace Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.

869 Highway 52 • 426-1233 Pastor Tommy Morgan • gracechristianchurch.org Helena Cumberland Presbyterian Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

3396 Helena Road • 663-2174 Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.

Pastor Rev. Tommy Johnson • helenacpchurch.com Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

CHURCH OF CHRIST Morning Worship 10:00 a.m.

Church of Christ at Helena 2499 Highway 58 • 620-4575 Evangelists Curtis Flatt & Bryan Moody church-of-christ.org Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Attend the Church of Your Choice This Sunday!

38 Fall 2011 ● Helena City News ● www.CityOfHelena.org ● Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

PLUMBING REPAIR SERVICES Commercial and Residential

Call 664-3300 for 24 Hour Service • Sewer & Drain Cleaning • Faucet & Toilet Repairs

Boosterthon Fun Run Invites Students on an EPIC Adventure at Helena Elementary Helena Elementary in Birmingham will host the Boosterthon Fun Run event on Oct. 28.

The Boosterthon Fun Run is a 9-day fitness and leadership program designed to help schools raise needed funds for education while inspiring students to live character-filled lives. Boosterthon’s new character theme, Epic Adventure, will show 430,000 students this school year how to work together in teams through the adventure actions Encourage, Play, Invite and Celebrate.

“Every day, our team members see students across the country get excited about character and leadership,” said Chris Carneal, Boosterthon founder and president. “Schools exceed their financial goals, and we challenge students to live out the daily character action in school and at home.”

As part of the 2011-2012 program, schools nationwide will join Boosterthon in Operation Playground, an initiative that will build playgrounds for underprivileged schools in Guatemala.

Students will see firsthand their efforts not only benefiting their school but also giving students in other parts of the world the opportunity to “play.”

Leading up to the Boosterthon Fun Run event at their school, students are invited to gather pledges for each lap they run. Along the way, Boosterthon

provides fitness rewards such as the PlayDisc, a hand-woven Fair Trade disc made by local Guatemalans.

Boosterthon has a proven track record of helping schools boost funding by more than 75 percent over other traditional methods and executes all aspects of the program from start to finish, taking the workload off parent organizations.

Founded in 2001 at a time when the fund raising landscape relied primarily on product and catalog sales, Boosterthon set out to completely redefine the industry.

Today, students are not selling products door-to-door; instead they benefit from a fun, interactive program that impacts schools and develops leaders.

But the Boosterthon Fun Run is more than a fundraiser. The program offers an extensive character curriculum that combines live character presentations, a children’s book, upbeat music, and a read-along mini-movie that includes live action and animation.

“We know that by investing in students, everyone wins,” said Carneal.

“We wanted Epic Adventure to be more than just motivational posters on a wall.

We worked hard to bring our theme to life on different platforms to create an unforgettable experience for students.”

• Water Heater Repairs & Replacements • Major & Minor Sewer Line Repairs • Sewer Line Camera Inspection • Backflow Preventer Inspection & Certification

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Tina’s Tidy Up WE’RE EXPANDING!!!

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Gobblers Knob membership for sale, and it’s discounted!

Looking for a membership to Gobblers Knob, the swim and tennis club here in Helena, but want to save a little money, too?

There’s a deal waiting on you. Just call 663-3007 for more information about the discounted membership that’s available for sale.

Email Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale: sonny@sonny-penhale.com ● www.myhelenacitynews.com ● Helena City News ● Fall 2011 39

City of Helena P.O. Box 613 Helena, AL 35080

Please Do Business With Your Hometown Merchants!

Whenever possible, buy here—we need your business! You’ll save gas and time and your city NEEDS your sales taxes! PLEASE RECYCLE, and visit our hometown grocery and drug stores! Buy your gas here, too. You CAN HELP IMPROVE YOUR city services!

Presort Std. U.S.Postage Paid Permit 26000 HELENA, AL

POSTAL PATRON

Mayor

Charles W. “Sonny” Penhale

City Clerk Amanda Traywick

City Council Leigh Hulsey Barbara Hyche Cris Nelson Jerry Deon Pate Katherine Ennis

Have A Question For The Mayor?

Contact Him By E-mail: sonny@sonny-penhale.com

Important Dates

ct. 20 Friends of the Library Meeting, Jane B. Holmes Library, 6 p.m.

O Oct. 24 City Council, Helena Municipal Building, 6 p.m.

Oct. 27 Planning & Zoning Commission, Helena Municipal Building, 6 p.m.

Oct. 28-29 HIS Fall Festival : Friday 6-10 p.m. & Saturday 2-10 p.m.

Nov. 5 Last Old Town Wild West Trade Days of 2011, 2nd St. Old Town, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Nov. 6 Daylight Savings Time ends, set clocks back one hour before retiring Saturday night Nov. 11 Veterans Day - City Offices Closed & No Garbage Collection Friday’s garbage will be collected one day early with Thursday’s route

Helena City News is provided by the City of Helena and the advertisers as a public service.

If there is anything you would like to see included, or if you have any comments, contact the publisher, Dave Smith, through the “Contact Us” info button at www.MyHelenaCityNews.com. Phone 746-1188.

This and every issue of Helena City News is brought to you by our advertisers!

Some kids are labeled disruptive or learning disabled when they may actually have an undetected vision problem.

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