Helena - The Magazine December 2023 by Shelby County Newsmedia, Inc.

CITYOFHELENA.ORG

DECEMBER 2023

HELENA THE MAGAZINE

RUNNING WILD HELENA’S ASPEN WARREN CHASES BIG DREAMS

AN OLD TOWN CHRISTMAS

LETTERS TO SANTA FIRST GRADERS FROM HES SHARE THEIR WISHES

ENJOYING HOLIDAY TRADITIONS IN HELENA

DECEMBER 2023

CityOfHelena.org 1

A FARM ST YLE COMMUNITY. Site Plan

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For more information visit shelbylands.com

CityOfHelena.org 3

City Leadership

A letter from the mayor As the holidays arrive, we celebrate as a community As we approach the festive season, I am delighted to share some exciting developments and extend warm holiday wishes to the residents of Helena. December is not just a time for celebration but also a moment to reflect on the progress our community has made. From infrastructure improvements to community events, Helena is buzzing with positive energy. One significant development is the forthcoming installation of a new traffic signal at the intersection 4 CityOfHelena.org

of Hwy 261 and Sara Lane. Following a thorough study conducted by the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), a commitment from dedicated developers, and traffic engineers, this crucial addition will enhance accessibility to a new shopping area. Improved traffic flow not only eases the daily commute for residents but also contributes to the economic vitality of our city. I am grateful for the collaborative efforts that have made this project possible and

December in Helena is not just a month of festivities but also a time to celebrate progress and collaboration. look forward to the positive impact it will have on a spectacular parade on December 2nd. It is through their hard work and creativity that we are able to our community. In addition to improved traffic management, the come together as a community to enjoy the festive City Hall and Town Center location are undergoing spirit. I appreciate their dedication to making the parade a highlight of our holiday transformative changes. Earth is being celebrations, bringing joy to residents moved to pave the way for a more of all ages. functional and aesthetically pleasing As we embrace the holiday season, civic area. This endeavor reflects our I want to take a moment to extend my commitment to creating spaces that warmest wishes to you and your family. resonate with the spirit of Helena. As On behalf of the City of Helena, I wish we witness the physical transformation, you a Merry Christmas filled with love, let us anticipate the positive impact this laughter, and cherished moments. will have on community engagement May the spirit of the season bring you and municipal services. joy and peace. Looking ahead, I also The holiday season is synonymous Mayor Brian extend my very best wishes for the New with joy and community spirit, and Puckett Year. May it be a year of prosperity, this year’s Christmas In Helena event growth, and continued unity within on December 1st promises to be a memorable celebration. I extend my heartfelt our community. In conclusion, December in Helena is not just thanks to the Beautification Board volunteers for their hard work and dedication in organizing this a month of festivities but also a time to celebrate year’s festivities. Their commitment to enhancing progress and collaboration. From infrastructure the beauty of our city is truly commendable, and projects to community events, our city is evolving I am confident that their efforts will make this in ways that will benefit us all. As we come together to celebrate the holidays, let us also celebrate the Christmas season special for everyone in Helena. The Parade Committee also deserves special positive momentum that is propelling Helena into recognition for their tireless efforts in orchestrating a bright future.

Together As One,

-Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena

CityOfHelena.org 5

In this issue FEATURES

Reaching new heights HHS athlete Aspen Warren leaving running legacy

Earning the crown Kathy Paiml shares journey to Miss Senior Alabama

An Old Town Christmas Get ready for holiday fun and see Letters to Santa

6 CityOfHelena.org

Follow the City of Helena

Facebook.com/helenathemagazine

TikTok @CityOfHelenaAL

HELENA THE MAGAZINE

CONTENT

Official Publication of the City of Helena

A Letter from the Mayor

Sports Q&A

EDITORIAL Donald Mottern

City Government

Schools Q&A

Barton Perkins Andrew Simonson Noah Wortham

DESIGN

The Guide

City Hall Faces

Sydney Allen Jamie Dawkins Rowan Futrell Connor Martin-Lively

In the News

Helena Church Directory

PHOTOGRAPHY

MARKETING Rhett McCreight

My Helena

Greetings from the Jane B. Holmes Public Library

Jeremy Raines

Michaela Hancock Rachel Henderson

ADMINISTRATION CITYOFHELENA.ORG

ON THE COVER Holidays in Helena

DECEMBER 2023

HELENA THE MAGAZINE

HELENA’S ASPEN WARREN CHASES BIG DREAMS

AN OLD TOWN CHRISTMAS

Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. 115 North Main Street Columbiana AL 35051 205-669-3131 Alec Etheredge

RUNNING WILD

During the month of December, the city of Helena becomes a scene out of a holiday movie with the decorations and celebrations throughout the month.

LETTERS TO SANTA FIRST GRADERS FROM HES SHARE THEIR WISHES

General Manager Mary Jo Eskridge Customer Service

ENJOYING HOLIDAY TRADITIONS IN HELENA

DECEMBER 2023

Photo by Jeremy Raines Cover Design by Connor Martin-Lively

Publisher CITYOFHELENA.ORG

CityOfHelena.org 1

Need to rent a Pavilion for an upcoming Birthday or Family Reunion? Rent a City Park Pavilion: cityofhelena.org/parks-recreation/helena-parks/

Helena - The Magazine is the official publication for the City of Helena that is published monthly by Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. This publication replaces the weekly newspaper Helena Reporter that was produced specifically for the Helena community since 2015. The magazine is mailed to all households and businesses in the 35080 zip code and will be available year-round throughout the City of Helena. Additional copies may be available at Helena City Hall at 205-663-2161 or info@helenathemagazine.com. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission is prohibited. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Shelby County Newspapers, Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Please email advertise@helenathemagazine.com for advertising inquiries.

Utilities and Services Cable, Internet and Phone uAT&T Uverse – 1-888-708-0934 att.com uSpectrum – 1-855-707-7328 spectrum.com uC-Spire, Fiber Internet – 1-855-277-4735 cspire.com Gas uSpire – 1-800-292-4008 spireenergy.com Power uAlabama Power Company – 1-800-245-2244 alabamapower.com Trash Services uRepublic Services – (205) 631-1313 republicservices.com Water and Sewer uHelena Utilities City Water Service (205) 663-1670 LOCAL SCHOOLS uShelby County Board of Education – (205) 682-7000 shelbyed.k12.al.us/ uHelena Elementary School – (205) 682-5540 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes/index.htm uHelena Intermediate School – (205) 682-5520 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/his/index.htm uHelena Middle School – (205) 682-5300 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hlms/index.htm uHelena High School – (205) 682-3650 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs/index.html uHillsboro School - (205) 864-7330 thehillsboroschool.org

City Government Brian Puckett Mayor bpuckett@cityofhelena.org

Alice Lobell

Chris Willis

Christopher VanCleave

Place 3, Council President

Place 1

Place 2, Pro Tempore

alobell@cityofhelena.org

cwillis@ cityofhelena.org

Laura Joseph

Hewy Woodman

Amanda Traywick

Place 4

Place 5

ljoseph@cityofhelena.org

hwoodman@ cityofhelena.org

City Clerk and Treasurer

cvancleave@ cityofhelena.org

We want to hear from you! Do you have an issue that City Hall needs to know about? Please use the City Action Center at cityofhelena.org to get a resolution to your neighborhood issue.

atraywick@ cityofhelena.org

Departments City Hall (205) 663-2161 Fire Department (205) 663-5809 Sports Complex (205) 620-2877 8 CityOfHelena.org

Library (205) 664-8308 Police (205) 663-6499 Utilities (205) 663-1670

THE GUIDE

HELENA’S TREE LIGHTING & HOLIDAY MARKET DEC. 1 6-9 P.M. Old Town Helena

Join members of the Helena Beautification Board as Helena kicks off the Christmas season with its annual tree lighting, Christmas show and holiday market. Located at the Helena Welcome Center’s red caboose, browse and shop local and regional vendors and businesses featuring gift and craft items, hear performances by special musical guests “The Martini Shakers, the Helena High School Choir and a dance troupe! CityOfHelena.org 9

AROUND TOWN DEC. 2

The 52nd Annual Helena Christmas Parade 12:30 P.M. Old Town Helena Helena’s time-honored tradition makes its annual return on Saturday, Dec. 2. Residents and visitors will line the sidewalks of Old Town as the decorated floats make their way down the street. Those in the parade, as in year’s past, will be gleefully tossing candy and Christmas cheer out to those in attendance. Everyone is encouraged to arrive and find a sport early so that the children will have good spots to see a very special guest. Reports indicate that Santa himself will arrive just in time for his yearly appearance.

DEC. 15

Helena Teen Council Movie Night The Helena Teen Council is sponsoring a free movie night for teens in the local community. For ages 13-19 only, the Teen Council Movie Night will feature the film “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Refreshments will be available at the event for $1 each (cash only).

HELENA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

Monday, Dec. 11

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DEC. 1 | 7 P.M. Helena Basketball vs. Oak Mountain DEC. 1 | 6-9 P.M. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony DEC. 2 | 12:30 P.M. The 52nd Annual Helena Christmas Parade DEC. 4 | 7 P.M. Helena Basketball vs. Gardendale DEC. 5 | 7 P.M. Helena Basketball vs. Chelsea DEC. 5 | 7-9 P.M. Helena High School Band Christmas Concert DEC. 6 | 4-6 P.M. Bowling: Helena High School vs. Spain Park DEC. 7 | 4-6 P.M. Bowling: Helena High School vs. Oak Mountain

8-11 A.M. Helena High School Football Field

PRE-COUNCIL AT 5 P.M., CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 6 P.M. HELENA CITY HALL

EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library

Helena’s City Council meetings take place the second and fourth Mondays of the month. Provided the Christmas holiday, only one Council meeting will take place this month, on Monday, Dec. 11. Helena City Council meetings are open to the public and offer the chance for you to get involved in the planning of your community.

DEC. 18 | ALL DAY Beginning of Christmas School Holiday (Schools and Offices Closed) DEC. 18-20 | TBD Husky Holiday Tournament DEC. 21 | 6 P.M. Planning & Zoning Committee meeting DEC. 25 | ALL DAY Christmas Day DEC. 26 | 4 P.M. Municipal Court DEC. 27-29 | TBD Ft. Walton Beach Tournament DEC. 29 | ALL DAY Last Day of Christmas School Holiday (Schools and Offices Closed).

DEC. 18-20

Husky Christmas Basketball Tournament 9:30 A.M. TO 4:30 P.M. Helena High School Following the start of the Christmas holiday, Helena High School will serve as host for the Husky Christmas Basketball Tournament, featuring a number of schools from surrounding municipalities. The threeday event will serve to feature the vast amount of talent on the court this school year.

CityOfHelena.org 11

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In the News SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS IMPLEMENTS ANONYMOUS ALERTS Shelby County Schools is implementing the Anonymous Alerts reporting system (AARS) that empowers individuals to report safety concerns and warning signs of potentially threatening behavior before they can escalate into a crisis. The Anonymous Alerts reporting software helps students, timid or not, to come forward and use their voice. It is designed to be an anonymous two-way communications channel, allowing students across the district’s 31 schools to securely share issues and concerns privately with school officials.

END OF AN ERA: SAN ANTONIO GRILL CLOSED IN HELENA ON OCT. 18 For many in Helena, it is the end of an era as San Antonio Grill, a staple restaurant in the community that has featured Mexican cuisine since 2006, announced that they will be closing their doors for the final time on Wednesday, Oct. 18.

BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL MEMORIALIZES LONGTIME VOLUNTEER WITH NEW STAGE NAME Attendees to this year’s Buck Creek Festival in Helena may have noticed the stage adorned with a new banner declaring it as the Jim McKinley Stage. Done in honor of the late Jim McKinley, who died early this year on May 24, the stage’s naming served as a tribute to someone who had played a pivotal role in the organization and execution of the festival’s music events for years.

HELENA FAMILY STARTS FUNDRAISER TO PAY FOR SON’S WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VAN A local family in Helena is looking to their community for neighborly love and help as they raise money for the purchase of a wheelchair accessible van for their son, Oliver Garcia. In doing so, they have partnered with the nonprofit Help Hope Live in the coordination of a fundraiser to help raise the necessary funds. CityOfHelena.org 13

In the News HES BOOSTERTHON EXCEEDS FUNDRAISING GOALS Students, staff and the community have much to celebrate at Helena Elementary School after this year’s Boosterthon week greatly exceeded fundraising goals. The school hosted their annual Boosterthon Fun Run on Thursday, Oct. 12, which capped off a week that focused on each class and student working together as a team and rallying together to help their school.

CHURCH AT OLD TOWN HOSTS FALL FEST IN HELENA The Church at Old Town in Helena welcomed families from across the community to their annual Fall Fest on Sunday, Oct. 22. Children and their parents came from throughout Helena dressed in full costumes ready to enjoy the festivities which took place from 3-6 p.m.

HELENA POLICE DEPARTMENT LAUNCHES CHAPLAIN PROGRAM The Helena Police Department recently launched its new Police Chaplain program on Friday, Oct. 6. The program, which features a mission statement that calls for the prayerful ministering to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of employees and families of the Helena Police Department, as well as the construction of connections with the community at large, has been something the HPD has wanted to organize for some time.

GOSPEL LIGHT BAPTIST ACADEMY TO SEND INTERNATIONAL AID AS PART OF FUNDRAISER Gospel Light Baptist Academy in Helena has partnered with Feed the Need in an effort to raise awareness, funds and community involvement toward both raising funds for their school and supporting an international cause. 14 CityOfHelena.org

In the News ANNUAL OLD TOWN HELENA CAR SHOW RETURNS NOV. 11 Cars of all makes, shifts and models will be on full display on Saturday, Nov. 11 as Helena Middle School’s softball team hosts the second annual Old Town Car Show. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Helena softball teams.

DANIELLE BORDEN SELECTED TO SERVE IN EXCLUSIVE STUDENT LEADERSHIP ROLE The University of Alabama in Huntsville announced in an official press release that Danielle Borden, a resident of Helena, AL, was selected to serve as an ambassador for the College of Business.

HELENA NATIVE TO PUBLISH DEBUT NOVEL LaDarrion Williams, a Helena native and 2011 graduate from Thompson High School, is on track to publish his debut novel, “Blood at the Root” next year.

CityOfHelena.org 15

Library Update

GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY

I hope this note finds you well this Holiday Season. Make sure to stop by the library to check out the newly released books and movies that are available. . We also offer new items on the digital apps Libby and Hoopla. If you are not using these services, please stop by the library today and obtain or update your library card. Accessing these services is free, and opens up some great options whether you are traveling, visiting or simply enjoying the hustle Library Director and bustle of everyday Dan Dearing life. The library received some great news over the past couple of months. The following grants were announced. State Sen. April Weaver visited in July. The funding she allocated will go toward books on science, art and technology in our children’s department, and inspiring new biographies. We appreciate Sen. Weaver’s service and her continued support. The Library would also like to thank Rep. Paschal for his service and for securing funding for the community. His grant will be used for technology upgrades to allow patrons better access to digital resources. In addition, large print books will be purchased to meet the needs of many community members.

Please visit the library soon,

Rep. Leigh Hulsey is in her first cycle to be in a position to assist with grants. A familiar face to library patrons, Rep. Hulsey is a Helena resident and served on the Helena City Council. The grant she provided will be used to modernize and update the early reader section of the children’s department. Having current materials for developing readers is part of the Library’s Long-Range Plan, and the community will benefit from these upgrades. Finally, Vulcan Materials, who has been a tireless supporter of the Helena Public Library over the years also provided a grant. This allocation will be used to ensure that juvenile non-fiction covers new and current subjects. That is over $10,000 in funding to improve library service to Helena and the surrounding area. Thanks to the many people who have worked to make this a reality! December features some fun events. Stop by for a calendar or visit Cityofhelena.org click on community, then on public library. Have a happy holidays!

Jane B. Holmes Public Library 230 Tucker Road Helena, AL 35080

Phone: (205) 664-8308 Facebook: Helena.Public.Library.Friends Website: cityofhelena.org/public-library Instagram: @helenalibrary

-Daniel Dearing, library director

16 CityOfHelena.org

December’s Top Picks A ROYAL CHRISTMAS By Melody Carlson | Adult Fiction Spend this Christmas with bestselling author Melody Carlson as she whisks you away to a royal holiday you’ll never forget! HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD CLEAN UP THEIR MENTAL MESS: A GUIDE TO BUILDING RESILIENCE AND MANAGING MENTAL HEALTH By Dr. Caroline Leaf | Adult Nonfiction Dr. Leaf shares a clear and effective five-step plan to teach your child how to manage their mind so they can live a life with greater resilience, health, and happiness. YUMMY TODDLER FOOD: DINNERTIME SOS: 100 SANITY-SAVING MEALS PARENTS AND KIDS OF ALL AGES WILL ACTUALLY WANT TO EAT: A COOKBOOK By Amy Palanjian | Adult Nonfiction This is the cookbook that parents with little kids have been waiting for. With strategies to cut down on cooking time, healthy shortcuts, and meal planning tips, Dinnertime SOS shares tried-and-true cooking advice and recipes to help parents win dinnertime. SPACE ACTIVITY LAB By DK | Juvenile Nonfiction This fun, fact-filled book is brimming with exciting outdoor experiments to help budding astronomers aged 9+ explore the secrets of space. HAPPY NARWHALIDAYS (A NARWHAL AND JELLY BOOK) By Ben Clanton | JUVENILE Dive into three new stories about Narwhal’s favorite time of the year! ONE STORMY CHRISTMAS By M. Christina Butler | Easy/Picture In this sweet story of friendship, Little Hedgehog and his friends discover that the beavers are trapped in their house after the big winter storm! Can they work together to rescue their friends?

CityOfHelena.org 17

Sports

LAKE GRAHAM

Helena High School Girls’ Basketball Coach 18 CityOfHelena.org

With this being your first year here at Helena High School, can you share a bit about your coaching career so far? How has it prepared you moving forward in your role here at Helena? This will be my 7th year as a coach, my first as a varsity head coach. The previous six years I was a part of the Vestavia Hills system, where I served as a middle school head coach for boys and girls for 4 years, and most recently as JV head coach and varsity assistant the last two. My time there was invaluable because it allowed me to see what it takes to create a successful, disciplined, and driven program. How would you describe your coaching philosophy? I believe in coaching kids to a standard. I set incredibly high expectations for my players in the effort and commitment it takes to be the absolute best we can be each and every day. I believe that only through the daily pursuit of excellence can we improve where we need to perform our best as a team. This is a gradual process of learning and developing both the physical skills and the mental toughness required to meet the standard we set for ourselves. I believe in preparing my kids not just for our next opponent, but to be disciplined, hardworking, and mentally tough people who will make a difference for good in their world. What do you think are the most important qualities in a player? Coachability, determination, and selflessness. Players must be open to being coached and guided to doing things a different way than they’ve done before. They must be determined in the face of adversity, and seek to overcome challenges both internal and external. And they must be a team first minded player, seeking to be the best team mate they can be. What are your goals for the team this year? Short term goals for this particular season will be to establish our culture and standard for what it means to be a Helena Girls Basketball player. To improve day after day within our system and to give ourselves the best chance we can to be competitive in our area and beyond. These girls have already done a fantastic job with this, and I am optimistic about our future this season. What do you find most rewarding about coaching? When I see a player who I know has bought in, worked their absolute hardest, sacrificed for our team, and been determined to improve, be rewarded for their efforts. Seeing them succeed because of the effort they have put into their craft is what this is all about. As a coach I believe it’s my job to facilitate those opportunities for my players so that they have the best chance to experience that feeling of reward for their hard work. What’s your message to the supporters and fans of Helena High’s girls’ basketball team? Your support means the world to us and our program. We will prepare each and every day to be a team that this community will be proud of, and hope that you will continue to invest in our program. We want our basketball program as a whole, K-12, to do nothing but grow!

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CityOfHelena.org 19

Education

LINDSEY RIGDON Helena High School English Teacher and Helena High School’s Teacher of the Year

20 CityOfHelena.org

How long have you been teaching at Helena High School, is this your first teaching position? I have been teaching at Helena High School since the school opened. Before Helena, I taught at my alma mater, Pelham High School. What inspired you to become a teacher? Teaching was not my first career, and I never would have dreamed it was the profession for me until I realized my passion for helping others achieve their potential. While working at my high school and college job at Ragtime Cafe, I realized my love for training new hires. After deciding to go back to school to receive my graduate degree, I took my passion for leading people to their potential and chose to receive a Masters in Secondary Education. How do you build meaningful relationships with your students? Building relationships with my students starts on day one and beyond. I dedicate the first few weeks around getting to know one another and not just being in an environment to learn, but to grow and have fun together. What I love most about teaching sophomores is that I am able to continue relationships with them for the next two years. One of the favorite parts of my day is to greet them while they are passing by in the halls, and I love when they come by to say hello and tell me of their future plans after graduation or what they have been up to lately. What teaching methods do you find most effective with today’s students? A question I always ask myself while planning a lesson is, would I enjoy doing this? I strive to plan engaging and interactive lessons where students are active participants in their learning and one way of doing that is giving students choice in their learning, whether it be the book they read during our literature circle unit or the topic for their argumentative essay. I have also started placing students in groups. Students learn so much from one another and this classroom setting leads to more active participants and purposeful, interactive discussions. If you could give one piece of advice to new educators, what would it be? My best advice to new educators is to not try to do it all alone. Rely on those around you to keep you going when the going gets tough and to celebrate accomplishments. Helena High School is a family, and I would not be able to do what I do without the support of my colleagues. What message would you like to convey to your students and their parents through this feature? I truly feel it is an honor to be able to teach your child. It is not that I have to go to school and teach, but I get to go to school and teach our future leaders. And what an amazing group of rising leaders we have!

In the little moments and major milestones of childhood, we are here for our patients and their families – helping, healing, teaching and discovering.

ChildrensAL •org

CityOfHelena.org 21

City Hall Faces

Meet Nathan Horton Wastewater Treatment Operator

Nathan Horton has served the city of Helena as a wastewater treatment operator for nearly two years. In that role, Horton’s many responsibilities include overseeing the daily operations and maintenance at the Helena water treatment facility and carrying out maintenance requirements within the city’s collections system. That system, which many residents do not often think about, includes a great number of parts that must be meticulously observed and maintained at all times. “This can include things like fixing a sewer line or responding to lift station alarms as well as making sure our treatment facility is operating properly so we can provide the best water quality possible,” Horton said. In fulfilling this necessary role, Horton finds that his favorite part of the job is his ability to find and fix the things that were broken or problematic, as well as always being on the lookout for new ways to complete tasks that may serve to improve the city’s processes.

22 CityOfHelena.org

In Horton’s view, his position is a constantly evolving position that calls for new and important adaptations each and every day. This is especially true given that waste water treatment plays a vital role in our environment as well as our riverways. Therefore, he believes it to be very important that one remain open to new ideas and trying new things in an effort to best protect the citizens of Helena as well as the ecosystem. Although he has only worked as a wastewater treatment operator for two years, Horton has lived in Helena for the past four. “I’ve fallen in love with this little town, it’s one of the few places left that still have that small town feel,” Horton said. “Me and my wife enjoy going to the duck festival every year as well as all the other festivals and concerts we have here in Helena. I also enjoy spending time at our beautiful parks. Helena is a great place to work and an even better place to call home.”

Helena Methodist Church

Grace Christian Church

Helena Church Directory ANGLICAN Lamb of God Church Head pastor: Caron Glenn Davis 5140 Hwy 17 (205) 919-7932 Lambofgodcec.org BAPTIST The Church at Old Town Head Pastor: Josh Knierim 815 Highway 52 E (205) 663-7879 Thechurchatoldtown.org

CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Helena 2499 Highway 58 (205) 620-4575 Helenachurch.com

New Vision Christian Church Senior Pastor: Van C. Houser 2383 Highway 95 (205) 919-6678 Nvcc4god.org

DISCIPLES OF CHRIST Grace Christian Church Lead Pastor: Rev. Brad Henderson 869 County Road 52 (205) 426-1233 Gracechristianchurch.org

The Rock Church Head Pastor: Bryan Van Gieson 501 2nd Avenue West (205) 358-7625 Rockofbirmingham.org

Gospel Light Baptist Church Lead Pastor: Gary Bohman 5781 Roy Drive (205) 685-0772 Glbcbham.com

METHODIST Helena Methodist Church Head Pastor: Rev. Rusty Tate 2035 Highway 58 (205) 663-0111 Helenamethodist.org

Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Head Pastor: Edwin Dinkles 5320 Helena Road (205) 624-3323 Mpbchelena.com

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Open Door Independent Church 120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963 Opendooral.com

Riverside Baptist Church Senior Pastor: Chris Wilson Worship Pastor: Kyle Ziglar 1919 Highway 52 West (205) 426-1910 Rbchelena.org

The Cornerstone Church Lead Pastor: Timothy Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332 Cornerstonechurchhelena.org

Crossbridge Community Church Lead Pastor: Cody Brister 1455 Starkey Street (205) 358-3500 Crossbridgehelena.com

The Voice of Faith International Ministries Head Pastor: Franklin Kirksey 1560 Cunningham Drive (205) 663-7396 PRESBYTERIAN Harmony Church of Helena Head Pastor: Mike Ensminger 3396 Helena Road (205) 663-2174 Harmonychurchofhelena.net Christ Community Church Pastors: Phil Chambers and David Cunningham 2222 Highway 52 (205) 881-4222 ChristCommunity.net

Church at Cahaba Bend Lead Pastor: Rev. Patrick Friday 3721 Hwy 52 West (205) 621-8060 Cahababend.org

CityOfHelena.org 23

SETTING THE PACE Aspen Warren plans to go the distance in the land down under BY DONALD MOTTERN PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES AND CONTRIBUTED

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Aspen Warren, a senior at Helena High School, is earnestly preparing for an opportunity to represent not only his family, friends and hometown, but the United States as a whole. Next July, Aspen will board a flight to Queensland, Australia and take part in the annual Coast 2 Coast International Athletics track and field meet held at the Gold Coast Performance Centre. For an up and coming athlete like Aspen, it is an opportunity that is simply too amazing to ever turn away from, which is a fact that makes his journey to this point in time, all the more interesting. Less than seven years ago, Aspen had no interest whatsoever in the sport he now excels and serves as an inspiration in. “In seventh grade I joined cross-country and

track to try and stay in shape for soccer,” Aspen said. “I didn’t really have any interest in the sport other than staying in shape for soccer.” According to Aspen’s father, Anthony Warren, that initial move was thanks to repeated recommendations made by coach Todd Schaefer, who pushed his soccer players to take up the sport as to maintain and develop their peak performance and readiness during the soccer offseason. “He played soccer for quite a while, and as a matter of fact, he played a high-level soccer for (Birmingham United Soccer Association) BUSA,” Anthony said. “(Aspen) played at the highest level over there. It was funny because he was always kind of the quickest guy. He was what they call a striker. He was the guy that had to be the fastest on the

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team.” Before these suggestions took root, Aspen had always been firm footed in his belief that “running was an exercise,” and not a sport. Nevertheless, Aspen eventually agreed to take part in track along with a few other teammates. At first, he did so begrudgingly, but as he completed his seventh-grade year, Aspen was already exhibiting a talent that even he couldn’t deny or ignore. “As the season went on—my very first year with track—I saw that I was naturally gifted and I was talented at the sport,” Aspen said. “I would race my teammates and I was above average. Coming in that eighth-grade year, I would win most of my meets in track and cross-country. And (by the time I was) in eighth grade, I knew that I could do something big with the sport.” For someone who was initially uninterested in the sport, Aspen displayed a natural talent in that first season and developed it even further during his 26 CityOfHelena.org

eighth-grade year. During that time, he became the number three freshman in the United States for the mile. However, events that year were all cut short or canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although delayed, Aspen was not deterred in his newfound position and maintained his status as a top runner in his class. In fact, Aspen hung up his soccer jersey and shin guards permanently in favor of track beginning with his freshman year in high school. Now, he just takes part in his two main cross-county events which are the 800 and 1,600 meter, which translate roughly into a half-mile and mile run respectively. “What kind of flipped (Apsen) was the camaraderie,” Anthony said. “While running in his eighth-grade year he received a lot of mentorship from the seniors. They came together when Aspen was in eighth grade—a lot of the boys came together—and bought him his first pair of—very expensive—running shoes. I was a little taken back because we were going to buy them for him. But

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Brady Barton and a lot of these guys took Aspen under their wing.” This team mentality, which Aspen quickly melded with, served to encourage him as he developed and matured in the sport throughout his high school career. Every weekend, the teammates also hold student led Bible studies and rotate houses as to where the events are hosted. However, Aspen is the first to admit that despite the collective team mentality and his natural capabilities, his success at Helena has not been effortless. “Throughout the years, I’ve been talented, but the sport really just taught me that talent doesn’t get you places,” Aspen said. “It’s talent plus hard work. And these past couple of years in high school have really taught me that because my talent has only taken me so far. I started to see some plateauing during my sophomore year, because I wasn’t working hard. (After that) I started to work hard again. It really showed me that talent plus working hard is what makes you successful in the sport, more than anything.” 28 CityOfHelena.org

This year, In the middle of this hard work and gaining recognition for his local successes, Aspen received the invite from Coast 2 Coast Athletics that offered him an amazing opportunity to further his athletic standing. “I actually got a letter through the school and I got it from my counselor and she handed it to me,” Aspen said. “I went home and opened it up and it was an invitation to run internationally and represent the United States at this meet in Australia.” Aspen’s coach had also been notified about the invitation and helped to attribute legitimacy to the invitation before Aspen and his parents sat down to further research the organization. At first, they believed it might have been an invitation sent en masse to high school athletes across the country, but they soon realized the exclusiveness of the event. “As parents, the first question we’re going to ask is, of course, ‘Who are you?,’ But really these are people that look out for not only just fast runners,

but they also seek out character and grades and things of that nature,” Anthony said. “They’re a nonprofit and you can tell they are a very reputable and very nice group of people that get together to just take a lot of their own time to really recognize and try to put forth the best athletes all around.” The meet, which is currently scheduled for next year on July 12-14, will involve athletes representing multiple countries including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States and others. It is an officially sanctioned International Association of Athletics Federations event that will see results rendered as official records. With all of this on the table, Aspen is simultaneously setting the pace for his future looking ahead. He has expressed an intention to run collegiately and is already touring colleges and receiving offers, including one from his mother’s alma mater of Montevallo. “It’s a big goal for me to run collegiately,” Aspen said. “I want to run at the highest level possible. So, Division one, collegiately and then obviously this opportunity is awesome to run internationally. So,

after the collegiate level, if running professionally is an option, then that’s obviously there.” Aspen also has interests and talent off the track as well, which are expressed in his intention to attain a degree in business and an MBA through a university. Already he has expressed a business acumen exceeding his age by having started businesses in areas such as internet marketing, lawn service and pressure washing. “I’m just, trying to learn some new skills and teach myself. It’s really nothing crazy,” Aspen said. “I’m just trying to learn and if I don’t make any profit off of it, then that’s okay. At the end of the day, it’ll help me in the future.” In Aspen’s view, much like his startups, the meet in Australia can do nothing but help in training and the attainment of future success. Therefore, to Aspen and his family, there is no question now that he will board the flight to Australia next year, it is simply too great an opportunity to pass by. That being said, the trip will not be cheap and he is asking friends, family and the local community for their support in the adventure. Recently, Aspen

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took it upon himself to start a GoFundMe page to raise the necessary funds. “I’m going to have to cover travel expenses such as plane tickets, meals and housing,” Aspen said. “So, I created a GoFundMe where the community and just people that want to support me, can help me out and to help fund this so that I can represent not just the city of Helena or the state of Alabama, but the whole country.” The GoFundMe fundraiser that is currently underway has been carefully set up to accommodate the many requirements and guidelines set forth by the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA). One of these 30 CityOfHelena.org

requirements demands that all donations made to Aspen’s page are directly sent to Coast 2 Coast, and not directly to Aspen himself. This is done to safely ensure that all donations and funds are correctly situated and organized for their promised purpose. So far, this effort has taken off in a grassroots fashion, with friends and family pitching in to help Aspen meet his goal of raising $6,000. As of the beginning of November, he is nearly one third of the way there, with over $1,850 raised. “I’ve been surprised,” Anthony said. “It’s not just one donor. One great aunt, a lot of friends, a lot of people who know Aspen have all really

stepped up and made small donations, here and there. All of us has been before talking about how appreciative and how really emotional it’s been for everybody to pull together.” For a student who began this athletic journey with no intention of utilizing it as anything other than a training exercise, his being chosen to participate in an international event has been a deeply humbling experience. As July approaches, Aspen plans to keep putting in the hard work that so far has netted him with the highest degrees of success, all while serving as a role model and inspiration for his team and showing his honest

appreciation for those he knows as friends and family. “It’s humbling for him,” Anthony said. “He’s such a low-key kid. Everybody you talk to will say that he’s not a loud bragging kind of fellow.” Those who would like to learn more about Aspen’s involvement in the Coast 2 Coast International Athletics event, or who would like to help fund Aspen’s trip can visit his GoFundMe page at Gofundme.com/f/run-with-aspen-send-helenaathlete-to-australia?fbclid=IwAR3UzlWngXSJbZl KklacLJsjbJ-qYIl3bacNJpAZy_ TYj71M1pNpytxl1w8 CityOfHelena.org 31

DARE TO DREAM Ms. Senior Alabama 2023 Kathy Paiml teaches others that it’s never too late to follow their dreams. BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY HOLLI HOBBS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Age is but a number that often, too many people take too seriously. Why should such a number define what individuals accomplish in life? A better question is why is it too late for anyone to pursue her dreams? The fear of the unknown–such as being too old–is the Goliath that stands in many people’s way, preventing them from seeing all that they can do. Some give up too easily and fail to realize that accepting failure does not mean accepting defeat. Part of learning and achieving goals in life requires

one to step outside of her comfort zone, trying what could be multiple attempts to accomplish her goal– and that’s okay. Kathy Paiml was 38 years old when she became a teacher. She was 49 when she beat breast cancer. Now, at age 65, she’s been crowned as the 2023 Ms. Senior Alabama. People, she says, should treat age like wine–it only gets better as the years go on. Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Kathy says she grew up struggling in school. She hated the fact that she couldn’t grasp reading comprehension CityOfHelena.org 33

and never, ever did she think she’d become an educator. “I always enjoyed working with students who struggled,” Kathy says. “I struggled as a reader growing up, but I would use myself as an example to my students.” After graduating from high school, Kathy attended Western Kentucky for a short time before taking a break. She later met and married her husband, who encouraged her to go back and finish her degree. Kathy went back to school at the University of Louisville and got her associate’s degree in office administration. She worked as a secretary until her children were born and prioritized being a homemaker until her youngest entered into grade school. While she became a “classroom mom” and 34 CityOfHelena.org

worked to help plan functions at her childrens’ schools, Kathy thought it might be fun to be a teacher. So, she did the unthinkable: try again. Kathy’s family relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, where Kathy went on to attend the University of Memphis, majoring in education. She became an elementary school teacher and taught in Memphis for one year before moving with her family to Birmingham. Kathy’s family moved to Trace Crossings in Hoover, Alabama, and it was at Trace Crossings Elementary School that Kathy taught first, second and third grade. She says she loved living in a neighborhood where several of her students lived because she often got to visit with families outside the classroom. “I love interacting with students,” Kathy says. “You’re a rock star wherever you go.”

During her time teaching, Kathy went back to school this time at UAB and earned her master’s degree in educational administration. She transferred to Green Valley Elementary School and worked there as an assistant principal for several years while she earned her educational leadership certificate from the University of Montevallo and her Ed.S. in educational technology from Lesley University. Now, three degrees, two certificates and six schools later, Kathy landed her dream job as the principal of Helena Intermediate School in 2013. At this time, she had only been in education for 17 years. “I always like to continue to learn and to grow, and I think that’s why I always kept going back to school because I enjoy learning,” Kathy says. “It was

a struggle for me earlier on, but I enjoyed continuing to learn.” As much as she loved challenging herself to accomplish her goals, Kathy says she really did enjoy her time in the classroom and as an administrator. One of her fondest memories at Helena Intermediate School was racing students on scooters throughout the hallways. Kathy eventually retired from education in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Like so many others, Kathy found herself wondering, “What’s next?” “I’ve always loved the special needs community, and I’ve been involved with the Miracle League as a coach and a volunteer,” Kathy says. She decided to volunteer her efforts with children and adults with special needs through the nonCityOfHelena.org 35

profit organization, Unless U, which is based in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. Kathy didn’t spend too much time outside of the classroom, however, as she jumped right back in helping teach math, character education and more. “I loved every minute of it,” she says. Kathy would often visit her students with special needs at Helena Intermediate, spending time getting to know each of them. She says it was one of her favorite parts of her work days. Talking about individuals with special needs, Kathy says, “They’ve got so much more to offer than 36 CityOfHelena.org

people give them credit for. [Working at Unless U] has been a wonderful learning experience for me, too. While volunteering at Unless U, Kathy learned about the Ms. Senior Alabama organization, which is a non-profit promoting fellowship and service for women ages 60 and older. Kathy volunteered to represent the city of Helena as Ms. Senior Helena. She competed in the Ms. Senior Alabama pageant in 2021 and 2022, being named the first runner-up both years. In June 2023, Kathy returned to compete for what would be her third and final year,

and this time, she tackled another Goliath in her life: bringing home the gold. Kathy was named the 2023 Ms. Senior Alabama on June 10, 2023, at the Ms. Senior Alabama competition, which was held at Oak Mountain High School. She couldn’t believe she won at first, but as everyone stood cheering and coming up to congratulate her, she slowly realized she had done it–she had achieved what she thought may be impossible. Though winning felt great, Kathy says her favorite part of competing was actually making so many relationships that she cherishes each and every day. “The best part about it is getting to meet all of the ladies,” Kathy says. “Everyone gets along really well and supports each other.” This year’s theme for the pageant was “Dare to Dream,” and what a great year it was for Kathy to have won. It’s these friendships, she says, that really make trying for anything worthwhile. Kathy never allowed her struggle in the classroom

to affect her mindset that she could do it–she could become a teacher. Though she says she was scared at first, she never once regretted the feeling she experienced walking across that stage with her diploma in hand for the first time. That feeling she chased five more times, earning a plethora of knowledge that has enriched her everyday life. She was also quite anxiety-ridden competing in the Ms. Senior Alabama competitions, but she had so much fun and made many friends competing. If you ask her, it was all worth it. If one doesn’t dare to step out of her comfort zone–if she doesn’t dare to dream big–she may never achieve what she thinks is impossible. Kathy encourages everyone to take that first step of dreaming big because if she can dream it, she can do it. Besides, if age is just a number, then trying something new is just another Tuesday, Kathy says. Those interested in learning more information about the Ms. Senior Alabama organization can visit mssenioralabama.com.

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Christmas in Helena

Photos by Jeremy Raines

Old Town Helena welcomes in the Christmas season with unique style as the city holds its annual Holiday events. On Dec. 1, this year, the community will gather at the Caboose Welcome Center for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, Holiday Market and another entry in the city’s Christmas Concert event. The next day, on Dec. 2, community members will also line the streets of old town to celebrate the return of the season and Santa Claus’ yearly visit with the annual Helena Christmas Parade. 38 CityOfHelena.org

CityOfHelena.org 39

Letters to Santa HELENA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Shackelford Class Dear Santa, Majiclpixe UMERK iND OL HAMicK 2RWeg Rel CAMRU Pet Dog Magic Wod Love, Avie Dear Santa, I wot a shiplago I wot a unuglg I wot a cechan stufam I wot a Pkse I wot a boogobe rsecr I wot a Jron I wot a Lago cr I worte a mliyln dowrs. Love, Pierce Dear Santa, I wunt a stuft aleadr and a Transfomr Squrpeiw And a pupie And a trdle And a pinoce And a fedes toy Love, Charlie Dear Santa, I wot a toy Iep Ples and a Brbe Halspies I wot a pupe ples ples Ples Love, Scout (I love you Santa) Dear Santa, I would like Akedos supr splitters and akedoes Love, Landon

Dear Santa, Goebedol Flals Love, Reagan Dear Santa, I wot a Anejuv zkwozhme loz Amd I wta hoo Dakarnoa Delfrum your Raderzadaletl Shech uvav Youor ded DAzAnDKloz Love, Georgia

Dear Santa, I woet a Bribe. I woet a drss. I woet a loveramp. I woet Brasis. I woet a Ebox 5. I Dear Santa, woet a Macup I wont Pong Wipeout Marvle toys glow Love, games runway – baskitball movin hoops Ava ninjarevel magic kit slime Love, James 40 CityOfHelena.org

Dear Santa, I hope you are good. I want Osmo Byjus, Hot Wheels cixo, And super Mario bros wonder gam Thank you! Love, Hayes Dear Santa, I would like a for addley march Agcbby doll house. A lot of Legos that 7+ or 8+ A brother. I have been a good girl Love, Mackenzie Dear Santa, I wot lipstick A schwshmello A BARBIE DOLL Ishadow Crafts and art Bickycle PJs Water Bottle A nteto Sun Blush Shoes Love, Everly

Dear Santa, Dear santa I want a Barbie house for chrismaes And BARBIES, Love, Arely

Dear Santa, How was your sumr? Min was good. For crismas I want a toy kichn and toy food. I would also like a Barbie. Thank you Santa. Love, Sofia

Dear Santa, How are you Santa I hope you are having the best year. How are the elves. Can I please have a lol DOLL DOLLhouse, a squishmallows. Love, Brooklyn

Dear Santa, I woet drt bic. Cor it. I xi Dol.Ecc z bex2.Wozn I prp uon l4 mine Iren hbedog minegoDinDoDo. Anoqanodrad Ipad. Love, Briggz

Dear Santa, Dear Santa, I have bin ringl good this yere. I want a Hllo wt are you doing? You are nies for crsms. I would like two yellow luigis. One the elves too have a good yere. And I want to Star-Wars action figure for me and one for my brothr. My brothr wont sonic shoos and shrt. Thanr you RC-car. Love, Santa. Lenox Love, Ms. Jordan’s Class Dear Santa, Matias I wont to no how the elvs are doing? I Dear Santa, love you may I plese have a RC car, sum Dear Santa, How ar you? I hope you hve had a good You are nis. I want a squishmelo For moor thing for my Mandalorin costume. day. I hav biu a good girl. Love, CaN I please have a bubble machine a crisms. I would also lik a tablet. Thank you Ezekiel Santa. mermaid, a lol dollhouse? Love, Love, Dear Santa, Azael Bella How are you? I hope you have had a good year. What kind of cookies do you Dear Santa, like? May I plas a motorcycle , a makeup How are you? I am good. For crsms I kit, and a play doh kit to make food? would like a majik mixr Love, Love, Aylal Marie Antonella CityOfHelena.org 41

Dear Santa, I love chrisxmos. This year I want a furrbe. I also want a Helo Kity suishmelo. I want a lot of presents. Love, Emerson

Young’s Class Dear Santa, I love Christmas. This year I want a cooby fig. I want a scooby blapit. The most I wut is a scooby-doo misdrg box. I cannot wait for christma-s! boing good. Love, Ellie Dear Santa, I love Christmas this year I want a toy. I also want a drone. Wht a piano the most. I hope you are doing good. I cannot wait for Dear Santa, Christmas I want a Xbox. And I want my own Love, cromebook. I want alexa. I what a drown. I Logan hope you are good! Love, Dear Santa, Graham I love Christmas. This year I want a toy. I want a dun. Dear Santa, Love, I lovechristmas becuz this year I am Greyson geeting labregehe. I cannot wait for Christmas. Dear Santa, Love, I love Christmas this year want a gol. I Tyson ant pelo the most. I want smuchmelo the most. I hope you are doing good. I cannot Dear Santa, wait for Christmas! I want Legos and a drone. I also want a Love, book. I cannot wait for christmasl. Haylee Love, Owen Dear Santa, I love Christmas. This year I want some Dear Santa, thommigschrges. And I want racscars. I I love cristmas. I want a bb gun. I also want plado the most. I hope you are doing pelel gun. The most hope doing good I good. I cannot wait for Christmas! cannon wait for chrisas! Love, Love, Jack Micah Dear Santa, I love Christmas. This year I wota sockr. I want toys the mot. I hope you are doing good. I catnrot wait for chrnistmat! Love, Gracie Dear Santa, I love Christmas. This year I want a Barberaws. Nekst to a beachside. I want a outside jeep. I wont a banch fowr moy of towas. Love, Claire 42 CityOfHelena.org

Dear Santa, I love chrstmas. I wanta a big holels plasete. I oso wont sum holels cars. I wont a lotuv presis. Love, James Dear Santa, I love christmas. This year I want a slipsu. I also want a payhosn the most. I hope you are doing good. I cannot wait for Christmas! Love, Audra Dear Santa, I love christmas this year I woud like a drone and a gocdoe toy. I would like legos. Love, Easton Dear Santa, I love Christmas! This year I want are semts. I also want a tree. I want a candy cane the most. I am so excited for christmas! Love, Alisha Dear Santa, I love Christ. I want a snake. And I want a modnsias. I want a costoom. Love, Kyree

Dear Santa, I love christmas. This year I want a Dear Santa, Ipad. I also wana stufey. I want brby the Can I have a spiderman toy? Thank you mos. I cannot wait for christma! for my toys. I hope I am good for you. Love, Love, Luciana Raydel Dear Santa, I love Christmas This year I want a motsrck. I want a spldmin the most. I hope you are good! Love, Laith

Dear Santa, I am nice. You are kind. Bring me presents. Love, Jaxson

Mrs. Esslinger’s Class Dear Santa, I want a skate boord. And it is a black skate.board is the rane deerse good. Are the elfs doing good! Is the north pole cool is it cool there crismis is fun is it very cold there is there ice driting I love presents thye are fun it is fun on crismis Love, Kase Dear Santa, I wot a babes sloth. I will feeds it and let it clime an mix chree. In mie back yard. Can you bring it in a cadeg. How are you and how is misis clos. Love, Haddie

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Dear Santa, For crismis I want a posit fidgeitspinrr! So I can play with it! I well leav out cookies and millk! For you. What cookies wod you like for crismis! How are the raindears! I love you so much wod you like me to tell my family Love, Victoria Dear Santa, I love you santa! What I wate for cicstccs is a red fibees. So I can trown it higo. And are yore elfs doing good? And I will leve out Mike and Coikes Love, Graham Dear Santa, For crismis I wot a bick that has flower and rabose and puckins on the bick with chraneing wils. Is the randers dowing wel? Is misis clos dowing wel. I wil git you ckockckeis and mieck. Love, Emma Dear Santa, I wot a elnt on the shelf and ples can the elth on the shlf be nis. Santa you or the best. I luv you Santa. And I luv cisos. Love, Maggie Dear Santa, I want a Pees 5 Santa I wut play bee kus I love play on ikcaronix. Santa imi on the Dear Santa, note list or the nis list. I wud giv you sum I wot a sesol the skular I wot it to be. The coke and milk on Kris mis. I at mi gremlos sesol is for my baby sister how is mis clos ome you can et the cuc and milk. For mi sav my choclit ckokes. I love you so much. litol bruth a tablit with roblox and loooo Love, robulks. Dakota Love, Azanel Dear Santa, I wut a toy car. I wil wux mi toy car to Dear Santa, trn in a robot and bac in a twoe car wik a I wud like fr crismi is a ifon. I wot to and a butin umacs a hos in the becgac oso play. I wot to ask you ris the efs dwing with a soshi kohr a kemot war I can chroll gud. And r yoo duing gud. I luv yoo satu. I oso a camru. I il lev cuces bus giv I to mi wil set cokes. I bet yoo r tiyrd. So yoo can krar loo. ret on my couch. I wat yoo to rest on my Love, couch. I wil fix yoo sum mic. Grayson Love, Owen 44 CityOfHelena.org

Dear Santa, I want a bowser lego set. I will bild it. I love you. How are your rainderes? Will you give misses claus a coikei. I will give ou some and I will give you some milk Love, Logan Dear Santa, I love you and I want on if you ranedeer doohgud and I want a poceemon cars fool on chorsra and I wil put it in mt byr. How r your elvs doing? And I want the chorsord to be silvl in the bac. Lalnd. And in the boostr box I wunt site in flams. Love, Bodie

Dear Santa, I wot for Crismis is a ifon 14. Ive wot is so bad. Hal ol yu radedezr I will give you cookeze and mil on mi momz desk. Love, River

Dear Santa, Santa, I wud a majick mikr for that has rilmajick. I will lev you sum kookis and plis give sum millk and kookies to misis klos Love, Zarek

Dear Santa, I would blue truck for christmas. I love you Santa. Love, Fernando

Dear Santa, For kresmes I wut a krurgor milidsistr the kulu is pek infor me Iwut a robut in I luv you. In I fogot for put kuesmeyk in talkuw in ign lef alutkues! Love, Jeremy

Dear Santa, For crismis I wood lik a gold rctevr stufe I wood like it yelo. I em aunu tac cer uv it. Is the ran der doo eng good? End r the elf doo eng good? I love you, Santa. Love, Day Dear Santa, For crismis I wunt pocecmon cras. Houw is the randeerrse. I wunt the poceemon crdse beacus I wunt to sho my frends wut tipe uv cookee do you want wite milk. Wen you go to my house I wood have randeer food. How are the elfs is mrs clos good. Love, Max Dear Santa, I woot a Jespo Eevee I wil play it do you reer eyit exist Santa. How are the elvs. Before I frgit safe travls do you fil good. Tel mis cos I said hey. I love you and if you fil sad, tel Santa mis you. Love, Justus Dear Santa, I wut a prises mreyow crt is you rr mac a prises pech crr prises pech gime ey miy. How rr r you Santa, I hop you r do guddd day I hope just wuvtut the! Love, Jessa

Stephanie Allen’s Class

Dear Santa, I wot a fon. I wot mon video gom disx. I wot a pet rmudilo Love, Warren Dear Santa, I want a spiderman web shooter and iron man mask. I want a furry puppy and a cat. Love, Brooks Dear Santa, I have bin a really good girl. I want a electric scootr, A dog, and a fone. I also want a ez roller. Thank you Santa. Love, Blakely

Dear Santa, I luvv haw ru can u ples git me a indomisracs and a dog. And a cat and a Dear Santa, gam. The game I wont is for cripriml I have been good. I want a power ranger. Love, I want a Blaster. I have been getting paws. Jason I want slime. Thank you. Love, Dear Santa, Mason I would like 1. Elvelis 2. Skimelo 3. Tablid Dear Santa, Love, Is rudolph your favrite raindear? What Dallas is your elfes name? I hope you thik Ive ben good This year. I want newborn Baby Dear Santa, I wot a brbedror. A tou dog. How elfs do girl clothes, chrismiss Blanket, I want fast push toy, Stanley cup whith a strawlm you have? cookeez makery, chrismiss socks. Hope Love, you like my cookies. Lily Love, Hollis Amelia Dear Santa, I want a amerikin Grl Doll and a barbe Dear Santa, kampr. Barbe dream hause I have been a good girl! I would like a Love, vanity, a unicorn, Gabby doll house. How Levier Jane are you? How are Rudof And Dancer? Can I have a play dough kit? Dear Santa, Love, I wanta a Barbie camper. I alsoe want Caroline a manicure set and all dangly earrings. I want maney to go shopping. I want a noo Dear Santa, macup set. I also wot a Pet hous. I have din I wut a toy babe cat. What are you good this year. I love you Santa. dodge? I wut a toy just like you. I wut a toy Love, mom. I Love you. I wut a toy liun. Ellie Grace Love, Eden

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Dear Santa, I would like these things. 1. Spidey web shooter 2. Balloons 3. Animalba balloons 4. Long leash 5. Dogy cages 6. Silly string 7. Nintendo car game 8. Smelly markers 9. Sharpies 10. A white board 11. White board markers 12. Colored paper 13. Nerf guns 14. Laser tag 15. A big lock 16. A desk 17. Slap bracelets Love, Beckett Dear Santa, Are your reindeer real? Ballet suit earrings I have been good this year I see you soon Thanks Santa! Love, Evelynn Dear Santa, I wut a hukehes set but no lagos. Howolb you? I yem six. Love, Leo

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Dear Santa, Hope you Are well. This Christmas I would like a Nintendo switch and games. Minecraft legos. Lego city, toy dino, dragon nerf and a toy dog. Love, Ronan

Dear Santa, Vr eroldlen soobrmeo baskol goal. Ps fif. Meoshoo. Roblox crd. Minkat lago. Minkat woli. Cpubtr. Roblox wach. Love, Charlie

Dear Santa, Toy car. 10 nerf guns. Ipad. Baseball Dear Santa, All I ever wutid was was a good krismis. glove. Shoes. Phone Love, I wut a tablit. I wut a toy. I wut a magup Carter set. I wut a icecrem sop that is small. I wut a pet. Mrs. Nikolic’s Class Love, Ryleigh Dear Santa, Mariy crismiss Santa. Thack you for Dear Santa, I wot A Hamstir. Heroes of goojitzu giveing me prezints evre yere. I love squish. A pet dinoe. A minfore botg codow. crismiss becase of you and famle too and I want slime. How ode or a you? I wot you. I am six. Love, Love, Emilia Maverick

Dear Santa, Dear Santa, Thank you for the gifts. First I need I hop that yor randerss has a got day Santa I wunt four lols and sum shoos. I want a gutar and robots and a dog sqooshmeloss. Santa I hop that you had a pleas. I love you Santa. Love, grat weck end. Bryson Love, Koli M Dear Santa, I love you santa you are cewt you udo Dear Santa, Thak you for mack me to finde my elf. rudof. I wont a trensformrs. I will eve you Ples gime a bobe campr. And Shoos. And sum coocese. He wuz redet to go brogoubl. Love, ugtre And drums. Ples gimeit. Sean Love, Caleb Dear Santa, I wot a ps4 and a atv I hop yr ra Devis Dear Santa, I hop you had a grat day if yu radee rwrx aar evina motusi Love, and I wood wunt a big lusdee plees git me Isaiah and a shoosbee. I hop I am not on the note lis. Dear Santa, Love, Thank you Santa for gifts. I love you Ellie Santa. May I pleas have a little puppy. Love, Dear Santa, Lydia I hope your randersor redey to flly. Plese kan I hav a mine micik. Plese Kan I Dear Santa, have a undwer. Hi Santa. Pls get me a new cas phoun. Love, Work hard santa love. Santa Jackson Love, Kaydin Dear Santa, How is the randers? How is the efs? Am Dear Santa, I on the node list or the nise list. If I am on Ples can I have a ninju toy and a ninju the nise list I wut a pc and game cher with wis and lecherik skooder. NFL Footboll trtul masck. Thack you for my presins from Last yer. and a nideo kids boll Love, Love, Theo Jagger Dear Santa, I hope yur randear is doing OK. Can I have a hachemoll pless. Tack you Santa for being nise to me! Love, Emily Dear Santa, I like Santa I wunt to ber, bik, pumpkin t loe. Love, Kingston

Dear Santa, Your so nice for chrismas. I want an Ipad for chrismas and I hope im on the nice list. Love, Alt Dear Santa, I Hope yur rodr is gilteg redeto. Do hrd wrkin hrde. May I pless get a sheass and Hotwlss. Love, Tripp Misty Stephens Class Dear Santa, Is Padolph ok? Are you good? Can I hav a florida football jerzy. Can I have a x box ples. Can I hav a Luigi Shert?Can I hav a Alabama football jerzy Can I hav a perdy football jerzy. Love, Brett Dear Santa, I hop you had a grate Sumer. I will like you to breg me a setuv brasletse. I will like a set uv macrs and cnedsan. I cant wat in tel it is Krismis I am goeg to giv To give you branes I am gunu Set. You carits for the radrs I Want one more theg a scqish Mellow. Love, Sienna

Dear Santa, I wud like to No hau the Ragders are Doeg. I wud like to Toc about wut I wud Like Dear Santa, I elike to pwant Santa. Tnacuou Santa. for crismis. I wud like a ade cat dol Haus bot Brenarest barbe. Henetair luve Brbe. To I and a big sqush Miloe and a majik Mexe playingston. With Ginetniike. Brygn Car and a rele bog. Love, tripp. Jaggrcaleband. Blexlyhaveabrbe. Anderson Love, Allyna Dear Santa, Howr the cukes. I wto for Krismis Is a Dear Santa, Qipes bbbobps os peskips upqus pakbob noew pear of shoos. And a skwush melow. And go to flordue. The is Tim I am going to mleki. Give you bownea and Choclit milk. I hoq Love, we have a wudrful day. Bexley Love, Aubriella CityOfHelena.org 47

Dear Santa, Santa I hog You had a gud Sumer. I wunt rel roabes. And I wut a wotrmelin Swshmelo. I wuta pikax squshmelo Minig ston. And I wunt a roabe squshmelo. Love, Adam

Dear Santa, Hal is Roodof. Can I hav a Fast cccar. And a nerf Mushing gun. And A lego car car. And a banu gun. A Mikraft unspecubl In my room. A pak Uv pokye lego wifpikchool in it. Love, Pratt

Dear Santa, I wont A chrsrd And scwrldoly And you Robot I want my mom Let me pLay Roblix And skdolls Dinsor And dawsr Love, Jackson

Dear Santa, I wood lick For chrismis is a Pupit but a hul. Bunch Of thim I wont a. Sister I wont a. Baby pup I want I wont god and a yoanuorn Pupit For santa hav a. good chrismis Love, Edyth Dear Santa, Irile wont a Fast notr sical I love sum norcrs I love a Fan I love a PSViF I love a Fallrilr I love a tablit I love a Cpyootr I love a dinin I love a lanp Fallr my Mom I love a Dear Santa, lot fo I love you. I loved my msee kart chras Mume I love a ploy Butin I love a ciall you gav me. This yyer can I plees have magic Wand I love a scwusnelo pokeeman Toys and a par of sliprs And Love, pajamas plees. Isaiah Love, Ava Dear Santa, How are the Randyer? I wish For sum Dear Santa, hiyhils I hope for a blancet. I wish for a I wut moor dipre And wips I wut Bodols ulexa. I wish for Macup. I hope for mpor and babydolll Closes I wut a Babyse I wus Sccs. I wish for a camra. And a cinpooter. schoosh I wut swush mele peck I wut a Dear Santa I hope you hav pool I wut a Paezz scwooshy I wot a Plushy a good crismic. And a xwush melow. Dog I wut a Box marcindooll With cute The end horse I wut a Bobeydoll Car I wut my Ers Love, Perst I wut scidols for my stocking I wut Marleigh starbrst in my stocking Dear Santa, I hope you Had a great Summer. How Was Mrs Claus? Can I please have Super Mario bros wonder. Can I alos have a Super soft pillow. Can I alos have some candy. Thanks. Love, Elliott

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Love, Amelia Dear Santa, Haw ore the rane dere downg Did you lik the Kokes last yer I gav you. I loved The dol you gav me This yer I wunt A robot dog. And Tuns uv hathu Mols. I wod rile like A hemastr Ken I ples hav a Bubl gum mshen Love, Mack.

Dear Santa How wus You sprieg I won pck eoj I won sck psh Hebs I wont A 100s hols smello pwnoG pockmo snap. Love, Holden Dear Santa, You Dio et Mi Koes I wota kr Lik Barbe ano You kin gift A little BArBe hose Love, Karetzy Dear Santa, I hope you Had grate summr I would like a Ps5 and iphone 15 And a real kitty Love, Mathew Dear Santa, Is redof red Nos dery Okay ples can I have a godn mincraft Axtoy Ples can I Hav a mincart bjets Lago catr wef baknsup Lago and the set Can ples I a Bjetrpushy can I ples hav a redten Love, Alex Dear Santa, How as yr Summr1. I wod Wut This yer A Xbxox Seresx. Woble Life. And cadot Doody and Fornite on nintetoe and arc cre is Blakond greenand a scapeBord. Love, Luke

Marketplace Helena the Magazine • 205.669.3131

HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT TODAY! (for 3,5, 0r 10 months) Make a lifelong friend from abroad. Enrich your family with another culture. Select an exchange student from over 70 different countries. All families are welcome to apply. CALL PAMELA AT (205)577-9323 host.asse.com or email info@asse.com Automation Personnel Services Hiring IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walk-in applications accepted. Clanton (205)280-0002. Pelham (205)444-9774. HOME REPAIR & PRESSURE WASHING •Carpentry •Water, heater, & faucet repair •Plumbing •Painting•Yard & Garage Cleanup •Dumping & Hauling GIVE US A CALL, WE DO IT ALL! ALL TYPES OF REPAIRS! 423-440-0651 110 DONNA AVE ELIZABETHTON, TN 37643 Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007 NOW HIRING!!! BEST WESTERN PELHAM • FRONT DESK• HOUSEKEEPERS• HANDYMAN “RETIREES ARE WELCOME” CALL OR TEXT 205.908.1305 BIRMINGHAM WATERWORKS CONTACT US AT (205)244-4000 BRIAN’S TREE SERVICE•TREES CUT FROM THE TOP DOWN!•SAFE TREE REMOVAL IN CONFINED AREAS!•STUMP GRINDING!•GENERAL LIABILITY•WORKERS COMP WWW.BRIANSTREE.COM 205281-2427 Central Alabma Wellness Mental Health Services Office locations in Calera, Clanton, Pelham, and 280! 205-651-0077 Visit our website to learn more centralalbamawellness.org Dogwood Plumbing LLC – Master Plumber, Master Gasfitter. Licensed & Insured. Senior Discounts. Plumbing

• Drain • Gas 205-864-2369 dogwoodplumbingllc@gmail. com SENIOR L2/L3 AUTOMATION SPECIALIST Danieli Taranis LLC (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsbl for anlzng user needs & sftwr reqs. to dtrmne fsibilty of dsgn w/in time & cost constraints, dscssng & evltng potential situations that can arise insde the plant & correlating them w/fnctnlts of the MES or flat prdct cntrl app. to produce fnctnl reqs. for each prjct, obtnng & evltng info on factors such as rprting frmts req., costs, or secrity needs to dtrmne hrdwr cnfgrtn. HS diploma w/3 yrs of prior work exp. in the pos. off. or rel. dvlpng, tstng & comsng Lvl 2 Automation Systms & Lvl 3 MES Syst. Send resumes to r.woods@ danieli.com Property Real Estate Manager (live out). Sought by commercial real estate company. Worksite: Birmingham, AL. 36 months exp. req. in same job or, Private Household Management or, any other closely related. Supervise other service workers $28.82 per. hour. 40 hrs. weekly. No walk in’s. Mail resume with cover letter to: The Founder. The Hazelrig Companies. 3535 Grandview Parkway, Suite # 315, Birmingham, AL 34243. AUTOMATION L1 PLC DEVELOPER Danieli Taranis (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsble for dvlpng sftwr prjct for autmtn sys.; intnl tstng of sftwr app on autmtn sys; drawing up ad prep. of oprtr manuals; field check, assurance that all field elctrcl eqpmnt is cnctd to autmtn sys; motor mvments accrdng to data sheet; mach. automatic mvmnts according to cycle diagram; monitor plant prdctvt. Bachelor’s in Cmptr Scnce or IT w/5 yrs of progress resp. prior wrk exp in the pstn offrd. or reltd. Mst knw (thru acad training or wrk exp) dvlpng MES autmtn sftwre using DELPHI XE2 & SQL ORACLE PL/SQL for bcknd dvlpmnt; dvlpng autmtn sftwre for steel indstry; SQL dtbse, Vsl Stdio Cde, Delphi 2005, Orcle dtbse, incl. Orcle ADF, Orcle SOA, & Orcle BPM. Resumes to r.woods@danieli. com.

Marble Valley Manor. Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-5482547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A). Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Production Supervisor $50,000.00-$70,000.00/ year 10hr shifts Mon-Thurs Oversees production operations. Sets objectives, organizes workflow, prepares schedules, assigns responsibilities, trains employees, ensures safety, schedules maintenance, submits performance reports. Skills:Automotive Plant Experience -Experience as Production Supervisor or similar role -Experience with manufacturing machinery and tools -Advanced skills in MS Office -High School Diploma; Degree in a technical, engineering or relevant field will be an advantage Benefits: PTO, 401k w/match, Health/Dental/ Vision insurance, employee assistance, referral program, tuition reimbursement 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044 O-FLEX METAL FINISHING 2nd Shift Supervisor $50,000.00$70,000.00 2nd shift 2:30p.m.1:00a.m. Monday–Thursday Responsibilities: •Be an effective Supervisor in a participative work environment •Ensure all Finishing Dept. goals and improvement objectives are accomplished per our commitments •Ability to optimize utilization of personnel, equipment, material, and space to meet OMF’s daily, monthly and annual targets. Will be evaluated regularly on ability to continuously improve in all areas of responsibility. 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044 O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Maintenance Technicians: Friday–Sunday 12 hour shifts 6:00a.m.-6:00p.m. Responsible for maintenance of O-Flex facilities & equipment across all lines & departments. Oversight of preventative maintenance programs. Coordinates continuous improvement activities with Maintenance Team Leader. Starting pay $19$28 BOE 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

Quantum Logistics Hiring Class A Driver. Montgomery, AL. Full or part time. $.48-$.55 per mile. Paid weekly. BCBS Insurance. Home weekend EZ Pass and prepass. Safety & Fuel Bonus. Apply online www.qtmlog.com Call (334)2888106.

Take your anxiety out of baking Fall pies – You CAN bake them Yourself!! Join me on September 24th and learn to make a buttery, flaky delicious crust and fill it with local Apples just in time for the Holidays!! Classes are held at Party Art Studio in Pelham and are totally hands on. September 24, 2023 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Sign up on my Facebook page @Siggi’sTable or Email siggistable@gmail.com See You Soon!! Nursing Assistant to help care for an elderly gentleman in Jemison requiring total assistance. PT-FT. To apply, call Ms. Peoples (205)688-1992 or (205)447-3005 Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time. Must have pistol permit. Call Brittany 205-991-4653 Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting. com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started! Now Hiring For Utility Positions Starting pay $15.14/ hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www.bc.com Hiring Experienced Driver Must have Class A CDL, Hazmat, tanker exp. Local deliveries, so you will be home every night. We have new equipment, FT/PT positions available with excellent hourly pay. Offering health/ dental insurance, paid vacations. Send resumes to: mark@allenoil. com Call 256-404-4143 or come by the Allen’s office at: 1251 Old Bham Hwy in Sylacauga NOW HIRING SERVICE TECHNICIANS •5 yr minimum experience required. •BCBS Insurance. •$25-$35 per hour (based on experience) + commission. Carden Heating & Cooling. 205-669-2459

H.H Handyman & Hardscape 205-720-7241 We Specialize In Kitchen, Decks, Bathrooms, Remodeling, Interior, Exterior Home Repairs and More! CALL US TODAY! Experienced Termite Technician or someone experienced in route-service work and wants to learn new profession. Workvehicle/equipment provided. Must drive straight-shift, have clean driving record/be 21/pass background/drug test. Training provided. Insurance/401K offered. M-F 7:00-4:30 + 1 Saturday/month. Pay $13hr. Send resume to facsmith@charter.net WE ARE HRIING Lawn & Ornamental Service Technician Benefits Include: 401K, BCBS Medical & Dental Insurance, PTO + Holiday Pay Heritage Tree and Lawn Care is seeking passionate technicians to make an impact in the industry. APPLY NOW 205-995-3331 #TechCareer #HiringNow By Heritage Lawn & Tree Care Facebook Apply Today 205-995-3331 Darrel@heritageltc.com More information: heritageltc.com Canopy Park Apartments NOW LEASING! Call us for Specials! 205-813-5568 2100 Canopy Trail Pelham, AL 35124 www. canopyparkapartments.com Canterbury Realty Group 4000 Eagle Point Corp. Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 Acquisition, Divorcing, or Estate Settlement? Real Estate is at its core. From 6K-4M Let my experience work for you! John M. Antonio Associate Broker 205706-6858 antonioproperties@ gmail.com Take your anxiety out of baking Fall pies – You CAN bake them Yourself!! Join me on October 22nd and learn to make a buttery, flaky delicious crust and fill it with local Apples just in time for the Holidays!! Classes are held at Party Art Studio in Pelham and are totally hands on. October 22, 2023 2:00 pm-4:00 pm Sign up on my Facebook page @Siggi’sTable or Email teresa@siggistable.com See You Soon!!

CityOfHelena.org 49

MY HELENA MADI SAVILLE Senior Class President and Helena Teen Council Representative

School Involvement:

A place for every student Whether it’s a sport, a club, or an organization, Helena’s schools have a fit for every student. At the high school, we have over 60 clubs and it is really a great way to get students connect and involved with one another.

Great Small Businesses

Shopping local keeps us together All around Helena there are so many amazing small businesses. Places such as Oh My Sole, Native Beach Tan, Highway 52 Nutrition and Taylormade Clothing are some of my favorites. Our great small businesses make Helena distinct and unique and give people so many opportunities to shop local and support our community.

Sunsets at Helena High School

The amazing views and landscapes One of the best parts about living in Helena is driving to Helena High School and watching the sunset. It is truly an amazing sight.

Community

Our small town feels like a family Helena has such an amazing community that feels almost like a family. Every time you go to the grocery store you’ll always see a familiar face. It’s so amazing to live in a town that values each of their residents.

Friday Night Lights

Having Husky pride So many families come out and support our football team each week. It’s such a fun vibe and we always have a huge crowd that turns out to support our arts and sports. The student section is always filled with high energy and it’s such an amazing thing to be apart of. Our cheerleaders and lettermen do a great job of hyping everyone up and encouraging the football players.

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CityOfHelena.org

HELENA THE MAGAZINE

P.O. Box 947 • 115 North Main Street Columbiana, Alabama 35051 Phone: 205-669-3131

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID MONTGOMERY, AL PERMIT NO. 432