HHS STUDENT CHARIS GRAY ENLISTS IN THE AIR FORCE AND COMPLETES BASIC TRAINING.
HELENA FIRE DEPARTMENT’S CRAIG SYKES PROMOTED TO FIRE CAPTAIN.
HELENA BAND MEMBERS PARTICIPATE IN MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE.
A letter
mayor
As we enter the final month of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible sense of community that makes Helena truly special.
Dear Helena Friends and Neighbors,
As we enter the final month of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible sense of community that makes Helena truly special. We’ve always been a community that comes together, and this month is no exception. Whether it’s through a neighborly smile, lending a helping hand, or coming together for events, it is the spirit of unity that sets us apart from others.
I hope that each and every one of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, surrounded by family and
friends, sharing in the joy of good food, football, and laughter as you reminisced about the memories of years past. These moments of togetherness are the foundation of what makes our community thrive, and it’s that same sense of togetherness that brings us into the festive season ahead.
The Fall Pumpkin House has come down, and in its place, the bright, joyful lights of Christmas begin to shine. I’m excited to announce that Christmas in Helena kicks off on Friday, December 6th, in Old Town. The annual Tree Lighting, Holiday Market, and
“I encourage you to take part in the many activities happening throughout the month, spread kindness, and keep the holiday spirit alive in every interaction.”
Musical Event will fill our streets with warmth, music, and cheer. It’s a wonderful time to gather, enjoy each other’s company, and embrace the holiday spirit.
The Christmas season continues to roll in on Saturday, December 7th, at 1:00 PM, with our classical Christmas Parade. The parade will wind through town, bringing festive cheer to all, and will be capped off by none other than Santa himself riding in on a fire truck, spreading joy to everyone along the route.
As we celebrate the holiday season, we also look back at the fall and the wonderful sports achievements in our community. November brought an end to our youth Football, Soccer, and Fall Ball seasons. It’s incredible to see the commitment, teamwork, and enthusiasm that our young athletes bring to the field each season. And just like that, winter sports are upon us, so be sure to cheer on our teams as they start their new seasons.
be incredibly proud of their achievements this season. Their efforts represent the best of what our community stands for—perseverance, sportsmanship, and a love of the game.
As we celebrate these victories and learn from the challenges of the season, we must remember that the true value of these experiences goes beyond the final score. It’s about the lessons learned, the friendships made, and the sense of pride that comes from being part of something greater than ourselves. Our youth sports programs do more than teach the fundamentals of athletics; they teach teamwork, respect, and the importance of community.
A special congratulations is in order for the Helena 4th Grade Football team for winning the league championship! Their hard work, dedication, and teamwork paid off, and they certainly earned their victory. While our other 4th Grade Football team and 5th Grade Football team both played their hearts out in their respective championship games, they faced tough competition and fell short. However, they should
This season is a time of giving, reflection, and looking forward to the new year. I’m truly grateful for this community, and I’m filled with pride knowing that we continue to grow together—strengthening the bonds that make Helena a wonderful place to call home. I encourage you to take part in the many activities happening throughout the month, spread kindness, and keep the holiday spirit alive in every interaction.
Wishing you all a joyful December, full of peace, love, and cherished moments with those you hold dear. Let’s continue to make Helena a place that shines brightly, not just during the holidays, but all year long.
- Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena
School nurse Erin Parker shares her favorite things about her job.
25 The trip of a lifetime Five HHS band members travel to New York to play in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
35 Take to the skies
Rachel Raiford Mackenzee Simms
Sydney Allen
Jamie Dawkins
Rowan Futrell
PHOTOGRAPHY
Jeremy Raines
Michaela Bankston
Rachel Henderson
Rhett McCreight
Viridiana Romero MARKETING
ADMINISTRATION
Publisher
Alec Etheredge
President and Publisher
Mary Jo Eskridge Customer Service
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
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
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.
bpuckett@cityofhelena.org
alobell@cityofhelena.org
cwillis@ cityofhelena.org
cvancleave@ cityofhelena.org
ljoseph@cityofhelena.orghwoodman@ cityofhelena.org mharris@ cityofhelena.org
City Hall (205) 663-2161
Fire Department (205) 663-5809
Sports Complex (205) 620-2877
Library (205) 664-8308
Police (205) 663-6499
Utilities (205) 663-1670
FRIDAY, DEC. 6
6-9 P.M.
The Caboose Welcome Center
Join the Helena community in this magical tradition to kick of the Christmas season with live music, food trucks and a visit from Santa himself. Prior to the Christmas parade the following day, the holiday market will give guests the opportunity to stock up on stuffing stuffers while the tree lighting will delight attendees.
SATURDAY, DEC. 7
1 P.M.
Hwy 261 and Helena Old Town
Helena residents will flock to the streets on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 1 p.m. for the 53rd annual Christmas parade. This year, the theme is “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” and representatives from all around Helena will decorate floats to delight crowds for this timeless Helena tradition.
THURSDAY, DEC. 5
6 P.M.
Helena High School
With holiday melodies sure to get everyone in the festive spirit, join the Helena Middle School Band for their holiday concert on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. in the Helena High School auditorium.
DEC. 3 | 11 AM
Storytime at the Library
DEC. 3 | 3 PM
Municipal Court
DEC. 5 | 11 AM
Storytime at the Library
DEC. 5 | 6 PM
HMS Band Christmas Concert
DEC. 6 | 6 PM
Christmas in Helena Holiday Market and Tree Lighting
DEC. 6 | 4:30 PM
Boys Varsity Basketball vs. McAdory
DEC. 6 | 4:30 PM
Girls Varsity Basketball vs. McAdory
DEC. 7 | 1 PM
Helena Christmas Parade
DEC. 9 | 4 PM Utility Board Meeting
DEC. 9 | 5 PM
City Council Work Session
DEC. 9 | 6 PM City Council Meeting
DEC. 10 | 11 AM
Storytime at the Library
DEC. 10 | 3:30 PM
Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Briarwood Christian
DEC. 10 | 3:30 PM
Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Briarwood Christian
DEC. 12 | 11 AM
Storytime at the Library
DEC. 16 | 4:30 PM
Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Bibb County
DEC. 16 | 4:30 PM
Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Bibb County
DEC. 17 | 3 PM Municipal Court
DEC. 17 | 11 AM
Storytime at the Library
DEC. 17 | 5:30 PM
Boys Varsity Wrestling vs. Oxford and Weaver
DEC. 19 | 11 AM
Storytime at the Library
DEC. 19 | 6 PM
Planning and Zoning Committee Meeting
DEC. 20 | ALL DAY
Last day of school, start of Christmas break
DEC. 23 | 5 PM City Council Work Session
DEC. 23 | 6 PM City Council Meeting
DEC. 24 | ALL DAY
Christmas Eve
DEC. 25 | ALL DAY
Christmas Day
DEC. 25 | ALL DAY
First night of Hanukkah
DEC. 26 | ALL DAY
First night of Kwanzaa
DEC. 30 | 1 PM
Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Tuscaloosa County
DEC. 30 | 1 PM
Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Tuscaloosa County
DEC. 31 | ALL DAY
New Year’s Eve
TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS
11 A.M.
Jane B. Holmes Library
Join members of the Jane B. Holmes Public Library for Storytime hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays every month at 11 a.m. Storytime aims to encourage children’s love of reading and remind them that the library is a place for their imaginations to run wild.
ALL MONTH
Helena High School
The athletes at Helena High School will showcase their skills in several basketball matches throughout the month. Come out and support your Helena Huskies as they aim for another Final Four appearance with games on Dec. 6, 10, 16 and 30.
HELENA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
PRE-COUNCIL AT 5 P.M.,
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 6 P.M.
HELENA CITY HALL
Helena’s City Council meetings take place the second and fourth Mondays of the month. Helena City Council meetings are open to the public and offer the chance for you to get involved in the planning of your community.
As many of you know by now, on Nov. 25, I resigned from the Helena City Council due to ongoing health concerns. Serving this remarkable community has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me over the years.
In February, I was hospitalized for a heart ailment, during which my medical team discovered a malignancy on my pancreas. While the overall prognosis has been good, complications have persisted, and my doctors have strongly encouraged me to cut back on my commitments and prioritize my health and well-being.
During my time on the council, I have been proud to champion several key initiatives that I believe have made a lasting impact on our city. One of my proudest achievements was leading a comprehensive compensation review, which resulted in raising the minimum wage for all city employees to $15 per hour. This change not only supports the city’s hardworking staff, but also reflects our commitment to fostering a fair and equitable workplace.
Another highlight of my tenure has been our deepened
commitment to education through the Teacher Assistance Grant program. I am thrilled to report that we have contributed over $500,000 to our local schools, funding vital resources such as computers for classrooms and materials that enhance teacher instruction and inspire our children to learn.
I have always believed that Alabama’s cities and towns are either growing or drying. Throughout my term, we have taken significant steps to ensure that Helena continues to thrive. I am proud of our efforts to expand our tax base without raising property taxes, creating an environment where businesses can flourish and families can thrive.
While I am stepping away from my role on the council, and retire from public life, I remain hopeful for Helena’s future. I am confident that the next generation of leaders will continue to build upon the foundation we have laid together.
Thank you, Helena, for your support, encouragement, and the opportunity to serve. I will carry the memories of our work together in my heart as I focus on my health and personal well-being.
We want the early learning years to be an experience that truly delights both parents and their children. We commit to pursuing excellence in all areas so that the years spent with us are an investment in the child’s future. Our desire to continually set standards and exceed expectations sets the stage for a childcare experience that families are excited to be a part of! NOW
YOUR SPOT TODAY AND BE PART OF SOMETHING TRULY SPECIAL!
HELENA’S SEASON ENDS IN SHUTOUT LOSS TO ST. PAUL’S
The Helena Huskies were eliminated by a final score of 26-0 on Friday, Nov. 8 at Helena High School, ending their 2024 campaign in the first round.
After annexing the district of Indian Ford in September 2023, the Helena City Council approved a resolution to adopt the debts and assets of the Indian Ford Fire District at a special city council meeting on Thursday, Nov. 7.
From the very first play of the game, it was apparent whose night it was: Dom Santiago. Powered by the massive night from him and the offensive line, the Huskies remained on top and largely in control en route to a 49-21 win over the Calera Eagles on Oct. 25 at Ricky Cairns Stadium in Helena’s final game of the regular season.
HOSTS BARBECUE COOK-OFF FOR FIREFIGHTER BATTLING CANCER
The Helena community rallied around firefighter Ryan Mizell on Sunday, Nov. 3 during Guns and Hoses, a barbecue cook-off that raised more than $10,000 to support Mizell during his battle with cancer.
HELENA AWARDED AS THE FIRST HEALTHY ALABAMA COMMUNITY
The city of Helena was awarded the first Healthy Alabama Community designation in the state of Alabama at the Alabama League of Municipalities’ 2024 Graduation and Awards Ceremonies at Perdido Beach Resort on October 30.
Sponsored by Dixie Vintage Auto Club, the annual Old Town Car Show drove into town on Saturday, Nov. 16 at the Church at Old Town. With vintage cars of every make and model, the show brought together car enthusiasts, as well as the community for a fundraiser benefiting the Helena High School softball team.
SSeason’s greetings from the Jane B. Holmes Public Library in Helena! As a town with lots of history and a small town feel, Helena loves the holidays. The Library is no exception, and we hope you will visit to see what treasures are on the shelves.
The library is always changing and innovating. Examples include our digital services, Libby and Hoopla, which are FREE to Helena library patrons. Other innovations include reserving books from home, as well as public access computers in the library.
different apps and services can be daunting (and expensive). It can be fun to visit the library and find things the tried and true way: Browsing the shelves and finding something to watch.
We wanted to make sure to thank the leadership and volunteers of Helena’s Buck Creek Festival for inviting the library to have an information table at the event! Helena has a very family friendly event that offers a great opportunity to catch up with neighbors. Please consider thanking the people who make this possible, or better yet, volunteering to assist them.
Library Director Dan Dearing
At the same time, traditional services at the library are still important. A great selection of books, fun storytimes and some of your favorite programs are all still here. There are programs for all ages throughout the year. So visit with a family member to see what has changed, and what has stayed the same.
In addition, the library staff has made great strides in updating the library overall. New, clear signage, great new shelving and displays, as well as current books and movies with something for everyone.
Speaking of movies, the library has a great collection of DVDs. Finding a movie using all the
For those of you who have younger children, now is a great time to introduce your preschool aged child to neat programs such as Storytime (EVERY Tuesday and Thursday at 11 a.m.) and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. These free programs are essential for becoming familiar with the library and reading. Check out our calendar for the latest events at Cityofhelena.org.
We look forward to seeing you soon, Jane B. Holmes Public Library
Jane B. Holmes Public Library
230 Tucker Road Helena, AL 35080
Phone: (205) 664-8308
Facebook: Helena.Public.Library.Friends
Website: cityofhelena.org/public-library
Instagram: @helenalibrary
Please visit the library soon, - Daniel Dearing, library director
THE CHRISTMAS INN
By Pamela M. Kelley | Adult Fiction
Explore this delightfully cozy and joyful novel of second chances at the most wonderful time of the year.
TASTE OF HOME EASY EVERYDAY
COOKING: 330 RECIPES FOR QUICK & EASY, FUSS-FREE, CROWD-PLEASING FAMILY MEALS
By Taste of
Home
| Adult Nonfiction
With today’s hectic schedules, spending time with family is all the more precious. Now, you can treat your loved ones to satisfying, delicious home cooking without devoting hours to preparation.
THE HOME EDIT FOR TEENS: HOW TO EDIT YOUR SPACE, EXPRESS YOUR STYLE, AND GET THINGS DONE!
By Clea Shearer | Teen
The ultimate guide for getting it together, from lockers and backpacks to bedrooms, closets and vanities.
STILL SAL
By Kevin Henkes | Juvenile
With themes of family, friendship and resilience, this very funny school story focuses on Sal and her first day of school.
ULTIMATE BUGOPEDIA, 2ND EDITION: THE MOST COMPLETE BUG REFERENCE EVER
By Darlyne Murawski | Juvenile Nonfiction
Updated, expanded and buzzing with the latest information on all the wild, wacky, cool and creepy insects and spiders that kids love, this is a title for all young explorers!
CHRISTMAS AT HOGWARTS
By J. K. Rowling | Easy/Picture
The story of Harry Potter’s first Christmas at Hogwarts, joyfully illustrated in a heartwarming picture book sure to delight readers of all ages!
HHS Basketball Player
What inspired you to start playing basketball?
What inspired me to play basketball was just the hard work and grind you have to put into the sport.
You also play football for Helena. How do you balance playing both sports as well as your classwork and other activities?
The way I balance both football and basketball is just having a schedule and managing my time like knowing when I need to get my work done so I can still watch film and perform well.
What was it like playing in the Final Four with the basketball team last year, and how has that motivated you going into this season?
Playing in the Final Four was a great experience and was great for our school because we made history. It motivates me to just want to work hard enough to get back there.
What is your favorite part about playing basketball at Helena?
My favorite part about playing Helena basketball is the community. They really come out and our student section really comes out to support us every game.
Has there ever been a coach or mentor that made a big impact on you? What did they teach you ?
Three big coaches have made a big impact while being at Helena. First, coach (Richie) Busby. He’s always been here for me and knew my potential as soon as I came in as a freshman. Second, coach (Jim) Elgin. He’s really built me up as a young man and was a big impact in my football career at Helena, and last, coach (Lucas) McDonald. He came in and gave us a new opportunity to see how far we can go in the season and motivates us every day to just keep going. Also, my first mentor coach Dangerfield impacted my life.
What do you like to do in your free time outside of school and sports?
In my free time, I love to play video games or hang with my friends.
As a senior, what legacy do you hope to leave behind at Helena High School?
I want my legacy to be hard working and never quit, very energetic and through the ups and downs, I push through and put my best foot forward.
HHS School Nurse
First, tell me a little about yourself.
My husband, Matt, and I have three children—Norah, Aiden and Sadie. We spend the majority of our time cheering on various HMS/HHS sports and activities. We moved to the Helena community in 2010.
Tell me a little about your career. How long have you been a school nurse?
I have been a nurse for 8.5 years. I started my career at Princeton ER, then moved to BMT/Oncology at Children’s Hospital. I worked as a hospice nurse for several years prior to becoming a school nurse in 2021.
Why did you decide to become a school nurse?
I really missed working with children and thought that school nursing would be such a fun and rewarding career.
What does an average day at your job look like?
Being a school nurse can be very different day to day. I can honestly say that no one day looks like the next!
What is your favorite part about being a school nurse?
My favorite part about being a school nurse is the relationships that I have developed with the kids that I get to see every day. The class that were freshmen when I started at HHS are now juniors. It is so fun to watch them mature and grow into the young adults they are. I am always rooting for these kids, even after they graduate and go to their next season of life. It is very rewarding.
What do you believe makes Helena High School special?
100% the faculty, staff and administration. Everyone that works at HHS truly loves and cares about each one of the kids that come into the building. It is so inspiring to be able to see that first hand every day.
Do you have any health tips you would like to share with the Helena community?
I am a big believer in taking care of yourself to prevent and help minimize illness. Going for a walk/moving your body, eating nutritious foods, staying hydrated, getting plenty of sleep and being diligent about hand washing would be my tips!
At Children’s of Alabama, kids are the center of our world and our mission is to provide the very best care available to every child. It’s why we are here.
1600
Three years ago, Patrick and Kristin Bachmann were looking to relocate their family and Helena stood out as the perfect place to settle down.
“When we were looking at moving we both knew Helena would be a great place for a family,” Kristin said. “We wanted a neighborhood that was family-friendly, and offered not only great amenities, but safety for our children.”
In the past three years, Helena has become home to Kristin and Patrick, as well as their two children, Charleston “Charlie” (6) and
Jackson “Jacks” (6), their two puppies, Chance and Fancy, and their overly friendly cat, Chuck.
During the day, Patrick works in the IT industry for the United States District Court and Kristin is in the marketing department for APCO Employees Credit Union. Both Charlie and Jacks attend Helena Elementary School.
In their free time, the Bachmann family enjoys any activity that has to do with water at the pool, lake or beach. In addition, they enjoy hosting friends and family for seasonal, themed parties.
ANGLICAN
Lamb of God Church
Head pastor: Caron Glenn Davis 5140 Hwy 17 (205) 919-7932 Lambofgodcec.org
BAPTIST
The Church at Old Town
Head Pastor: Josh Knierim 815 Highway 52 E (205) 663-7879 Thechurchatoldtown.org
Gospel Light Baptist Church
Lead Pastor: Gary Bohman 5781 Roy Drive (205) 685-0772 Glbcbham.com
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church
Head Pastor: Edwin Dinkins 5320 Helena Road (205) 624-3323 Mpbchelena.com
Riverside Baptist Church
Senior Pastor: Chris Wilson
Worship Pastor: Kyle Ziglar 1919 Highway 52 West (205) 426-1910 Rbchelena.org
Crossbridge Community Church
Lead Pastor: Cody Brister 1455 Starkey Street (205) 358-3500 Crossbridgehelena.com
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ at Helena 2499 Highway 58 (205) 620-4575 Helenachurch.com
DISCIPLES OF CHRIST:
Grace Christian Church
Lead Pastor: Rev. Brad Henderson 869 County Road 52 (205) 426-1233
Gracechristianchurch.org
METHODIST
Helena Methodist Church
Head Pastor: Rev. Rusty Tate 2035 Highway 58 (205) 663-0111 Helenamethodist.org
Church at Cahaba Bend
Lead Pastor: Rev. Patrick Friday 3721 Hwy 52 West (205) 621-8060 Cahababend.org
Open Door Independent Church 120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963 Opendooral.com
The Cornerstone Church
Lead Pastor: Timothy Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332 Cornerstonechurchhelena.org
New Vision Christian Church
Senior Pastor: Van C. Houser 2383 Highway 95 (205) 919-6678 Nvcc4god.org
The Rock Church
Head Pastor: Bryan Van Gieson 501 2nd Avenue West (205) 358-7625
Rockofbirmingham.org
The Voice of Faith International Ministries
Head Pastor: Franklin Kirksey 1560 Cunningham Drive (205) 663-7396
PRESBYTERIAN
Harmony Church of Helena
Head Pastor: 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
After a recent promotion to fire captain, Shelby County native Craig Sykes will utilize his 16 years of firefighting experience to help oversee Helena’s three fire stations, working along his fellow firefighters to ensure that the department is offering the best possible service to the residents of Helena.
“My favorite thing about the job is that there is not one shift that you work that is ever the same—each call is unique and different,” Sykes said. “I enjoy being able to provide the best care possible in some of the worst situations.”
According to Sykes, bonds run deep between firefighters and his coworkers are like a second family, but that does not mean that the job is without hardship.
“First and foremost, the toughest part of my job is being away from my loving wife and three sons,” Sykes said. “However, the fire service is a very unique career that I believe you are called to do. And the good days always outweigh bad.”
Sykes currently resides in Alabaster with his wife, Shelley, and three sons, Clay (12), Colton (8) and Connor (8). In his free time, Sykes enjoys hunting, spending time with his family and working with Shoreline K9.
“In my opinion, the thing that makes Helena special is its citizens and their strong sense of community,” Sykes said. “I’m proud to be a small part of their everyday lives and take great pride being available and there for our citizens when we are called upon.”
Helena High School band students participate in Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade
BY
LLike many across the country, Kaden Vanderford grew up watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade wind through the streets of Manhattan each year. As a member of the Helena High School Band, Vanderford began researching how to be part of the parade.
Vanderford went through the application process, including submitting a recording of himself playing the clarinet, and was eventually selected to participate—the first Helena band member to be chosen for the honor.
But Vanderford did not stop there. He convinced four other bandmates to apply, and all five participated in the parade on Nov. 28.
“I’ve always loved the Macy’s parade, and I kind of started looking into how to be a part of it,” Vanderford says. “I think it’s cool that I get to be in a group that’s made up of people from around the country, and it’s a really big honor to be in the Macy’s parade in general. I was excited to perform in front of millions of people on TV, but I was also excited to do it with some of my best friends.”
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been held every year since 1924, tying it for the second-oldest Thanksgiving parade in the United States, behind only Philadelphia’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The Macy’s parade
PARTICIPATING IN THE MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE
Gabe Day sophomore, snare drum
Harrison Frith junior, baritone
Dylan Strickland senior, alto saxophone
Kaden Vanderford senior, clarinet
Thomas Washer senior, saxophone
has been televised nationally on NBC since 1953, with more than 44 million people typically watching the parade.
Jeff Burnside, director of bands at Helena High School, is happy for the school to have its first participants in the Macy’s parade, and of course, happy for the students.
“It’s good publicity for the band—they’re not doing it for that, but it’s a chance to show how active the kids are with the band and their music outside of what we do here at school,” Burnside says.
Burnside has first-hand knowledge about the unique experience they are in for: both of his children have participated in the parade. Burnside’s daughter Kaitlyn went in 2009, and Burnside’s son Andrew went in 2009, 2011 and 2012.
Burnside was at Pelham High School when his children participated, before the opening of Helena High School in 2014. Kaitlyn Traylor was the first student drum major in the Macy’s parade, and she met her husband (who is now the assistant band director at Helena) while participating in the parade.
“I was excited to perform in front of millions of people on TV, but I was also excited to do it with some of my best friends.”
- KADEN VANDERFORD
de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-888-830-8482 (TTY:
注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服 務.請致電 1-888-830-8482 (TTY: 711). H0154_mcdoc4189A_M_08/24/2024
“New York is a great place to go visit,” Burnside says. “Getting a chance to go do that parade is a highlight for what most people would get to do as far as marching band goes—where the parade goes, the sights, the significance for the holidays and TV and all that. It’s a really neat experience if you get a chance to do it. They do a good job with the parade. It’s very well done. It’s a lot of fun.”
The participants flew into New York, and on their first day there, received their instruments, were fitted for uniforms, and got set up in a hotel. Each day leading up the parade included practice in the mornings and opportunities for sightseeing in the afternoons.
The first bandmates to join Kaden were Dylan Strickland and Thomas Washer. “I was helping Kaden with his audition, and he was like, ‘You should try out for it for,’ and I thought that was
a great idea. I know it’s an experience I won’t forget,” Strickland says.
“Once Kaden applied and got accepted, he convinced me it would be awesome for our senior year to go up to New York and do this experience,” Washer says.
Then it was Harrison Frith’s turn to jump onboard, and last was Gabe Day, who is a sophomore. Day received a phone call from Burnside that the parade organizers were still looking for one participant, and he sent in his application and was accepted.
The bandmates all said they enjoyed the parade experience and spending time in New York.
“New York is a cool city,” Frith says. “I got to be there with my friends and explore, and meet people from across the country.”
“It’s something we will tell our grandkids about,” Washer adds.
“It’s good publicity for the band—they’re not doing it for that, but it’s a chance to show how active the kids are with the band and their music outside of what we do here at school”
- JEFF BURNSIDE
HHS student Charis Gray enlists in the Air Force and completes basic training.
BY STEPHEN DAWKINS
LLike many seniors at Helena High School, Charis Gray was preparing for the Homecoming Dance in early October. But Charis had other things vying for her focus that perhaps no one else at HHS, and very few across the country, could understand.
As a 17-year-old enlistee in the Army National Guard, Charis spent the Friday of Homecoming flying in a Black Hawk helicopter to a shooting range to practice with a .50-caliber sniper rifle.
A bright and talented student, Charis wasn’t sure what direction to take after high school. But drawing on an interest in aviation that dated back to childhood and a family history with the military, Charis and her supportive parents began talking to a recruiter, who
eased concerns big and small—down to whether she would be allowed lip balm at Basic Training (affirmative). Charis credits the decision and her experience thus far in giving her discipline and direction for her career path and life.
“I’ve always loved airplanes and aviation, and having a grandfather in the Navy, he guided me toward the military,” Charis said. Kelsey Gray, Charis’ mother, said her father once commented that a nineyear-old Charis had a good personality for military service because she liked structure.
Charis, the oldest of four siblings, started at Helena High School for ninth grade after moving to the city. Freshman year was a transition to a new school, and
then sophomore year came and went. It was during her junior year that Charis and her parents discussed the need for her to hone her vision for her future.
They met an Army National Guard recruiter at a National Night Out event. “There was a beautiful young woman in uniform…we started talking to my daughter about National Guard and split enlistment because it’s not as intimidating—you’re not in full active service,” Kelsey said.
After several in-home visits with the recruiter, Charis made her decision.
“I wanted to be part of something bigger, and I realized that when I started talking to my recruiter, Sgt. Reese,” Charis said. The National Guard offered that and more, including a paid-for college education and a pathway to a multitude of careers. When aviation operational specialist came up in the list,
Charis knew what she wanted to do.
But first, there was the not-so-small matter of the rite of passage for all enlisted men and women: Basic Combat Training.
In October 2023, Charis took and scored well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. Then, days after turning 17 years old on Dec. 19, 2023, Charis traveled to Montgomery Air Force Base to enlist. She finished up her junior year of high school in May and shipped out of Montgomery with six others to Fort Jackson, South Carolina.
The first week of Basic Training was mostly “processing,” such as health screenings and the issuance of uniforms and gear. But even before the
“I feel like I’m more disciplined and have more awareness and confidence—just a lot of maturing. I’ve heard a lot of soldiers say that it’s hard, but they would do it again. I really would do it again.”
- CHARIS GRAY
strenuous physical portions, there is little sleep and much information being thrown at the recruits.
Charis did not find the reality of Basic Combat Training to be how it is portrayed on TV and in movies—less yelling and more team building. “It’s getting people to bond with others in your platoon,” she said. “It’s very fast-paced. You’re surrounded by people from other cultures. It’s just a unique experience for sure.”
Still, challenging is an understatement. Recruits perform activities including rappelling off a tower and experiencing the effects of toxic gas—and relying on bland military-issue MREs (meals-ready-to-eat) for sustenance. Charis said the hardest part for her was homesickness.
One of the final parts of Basic Combat Training is called The Forge, a grueling 96-hour cumulative exercise that allows trainees to experience a multitude
of combat and logistical scenarios emphasizing battle drills, tactical operations and numerous foot patrols. “We rucked 10 miles and stayed for three nights out in the middle of nowhere,” Charis said. “It was raining the entire time. Everything was wet. I had no dry clothes and no sleep.”
Then there was the Night Infiltration Course, where trainees crawl under barbed wire while live rounds are being fired overhead. “It was definitely the most intense part of the whole experience,” she said. “It seems like you’re never going to make it to the end.”
The day before Graduation Day is Family Day. Trainees line up in formation, and parents drive by in a sort of school carpool line. Charis went running to her parents’ vehicle and was happy to see them and surprised to see they had brought along her pet cat, Mushka. “She sat in my lap the whole day,” Charis said. “She was so happy to see me.”
Charis said she has changed in positive ways since Basic Combat Training.
“I feel like I have more work ethic,” she said. “I’m goal-oriented. I feel like I’m more disciplined and have more awareness and confidence—just a lot of maturing. I’ve heard a lot of soldiers say that it’s hard, but they would do it again. I really would do it again.”
Kelsey said the 10 weeks she was apart from her daughter were difficult, but she now recognizes it was a “refining experience.”
“We got to talk to her less than 10 minutes once a week, and she’s in a crowded room, noisy, and we just get a few details,” Kelsey said. “It was a flood of emotions the first time I saw her. She had gotten so physically strong and emotionally strong. She has this sense of purpose. We are just really proud of her and blown away by this accomplishment.”
Charis attends drills on weekends, and her military experience is still surprising her. The ride on the Black Hawk was one welcome surprise, as was an invitation to represent the Army National Guard at the NASCAR race at Talladega Superspeedway, which happened to be the same weekend as the
helicopter excursion and the Helena Homecoming Dance.
After graduating from HHS, Charis will attend the University of South Alabama. She and her family lived in Mobile for a couple of years before moving to Helena, and her grandparents live there now. The deciding factor for choosing a college was USA’s ROTC program.
“I’m looking forward to making new friends, having more independence and focusing in on my studies,” Charis said.
College will be a step on the journey toward a bigger destination for Charis, and she credits her military experience with giving her the insight to recognize that perspective—and do some cool things along the way.
“I think a lot of kids my age, people in my generation, they close the door on so many opportunities that are presented to them because they aren’t willing to push themselves past the limit,” Charis said. “I’m very, very thankful for what I’m doing even though it’s hard work and it’s going to be hard in the career path I’ve chosen. I’m going to be doing something I love, with a different challenge every day. A year ago, I had no clue what I wanted to do, but I definitely have a goal for my life now.”
The city of Helena is one of the best holiday towns in the Birmingham-metro area with the Old Town area of the city turning into a winter wonderland. The month of December will feature its share of events, including the annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade.
The Helena Huskies capped off the 2024 high school football season with a playoff matchup against St. Paul’s in the opening round of the Class 6A playoffs. Despite a loss, the Huskies capped off another special year at 6-4, winning five of their final six games.
The Helena community rallied around firefighter Ryan Mizell on Sunday, Nov. 3 during Guns and Hoses, a barbecue cook-off that raised more than $10,000 to support Mizell during his battle with cancer.
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The Helena parks that our family enjoy the most are any that sports can be played at, or where the boys can fish. You’ll often find a Pourciau watching football or baseball at Helena High School. Or more often, playing football, baseball or basketball at the Helena Sports Complex. And, anytime we aren’t playing sports, you’ll find the Pourciau men fishing at various fishing holes around Helena.
Education is second to none
We’re very thankful for the Helena teachers that have impacted our children’s lives over the years. The majority of our teachers also live in Helena, so they are invested in making own community’s schools the best around. It’s special to go to church, the grocery store, sporting events and continue to see the teachers who made a positive impact on my kids! It truly takes a village to raise kids, and Helena has the best village around.
Our city’s great events Halloween in Hillsboro cannot be matched. We look forward to the decorations, the Witches’ Ride, the Sunbury Haunted House, and the multitudes that flock in on Halloween night. Also, the Helena Christmas parade kicks off the Christmas spirit for our family. The sounds of the Helena High Band and sights of kids on floats, candy flying through the air, and Santa on the firetruck bring excitement for all ages!
My favorite eats
If you’re not waiting for Home Plate Cooking’s weekly menu to drop Sunday night, sign up now! We plan our lunches around our families’ favorites. When we want a quiet night in, Refined to Go is our favorite spot with their Fish Tacos, Catfish, and Chicken Alfredo! And, if our family can all make a meal together, everyone can agree on Hibachi and Sushi at Osaka Japanese! Our family stays on the go, so it’s great to be able to get a great quality meal in Helena without the stress of cooking!
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Phone: 205-669-3131
