Helena - The Magazine October issue

HELENA

FUTURE FIRST RESPONDERS

CITY POLICE AND FIRE EXPLORER PROGRAMS FLOURISH

HUSKY GAMEDAY

STUDENTS CREATE PROGRAM BASED ON POPULAR SPORTS SHOW

BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR THE ANNUAL EVENT

A FARM S T YLE COMMUNITY.

LOTS RANGING FROM 5 TO 20 ACRES

LOCATED ON HIGHWAY 13 NEAR CAHABA PARK

Site Plan

ANY INQUIRUES CONTACT:

Tim Webster

Email: tim@shelbylands.com

Phone: (205) 789-3301

Abby Webster

Email: abby.webster@shelbylands.com

Phone: (205) 393-1423

OTHER SHELBY LANDS DEVELOPMENTS:

For more information visit shelbylands.com

Parkview Farms

Springwater Farms

City Leadership

A letter from the mayor

A budget update, a thank you to Chief Valenti, and Indian Ford annexation

As your Mayor, it is my privilege to keep you informed about important matters concerning our wonderful city. Today, I am pleased to share some significant updates regarding our municipal budget for the fiscal year 2024, the retirement of our esteemed Fire Chief, and an update on the annexation election for the citizens of the Indian Ford Fire District.

First and foremost, I am happy to announce that the City Council has recently approved the balanced municipal budget for the fiscal year 2024 that I presented. This is a milestone achievement that reflects our dedication to responsible financial management and ensuring the continued wellbeing and progress of our community. The budget has been carefully crafted to address the needs

and aspirations of our citizens while maintaining essential services and infrastructure development.

The approved budget places significant emphasis on public safety, education, recreation, infrastructure, and sustainable development. We remain committed to enhancing the quality of life for all residents, promoting economic growth, and fostering a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. I want to express my gratitude to the City Council for their diligent efforts in passing this budget that aligns with our shared vision for a prosperous and vibrant city.

The Helena Farmers Market wrapped up another great year, and I am excited to announce that new leadership of the board has already begun planning for next year. I am calling all residents that want to volunteer to help make the market the best it can be for next year to reach out to me to get you plugged in.

Last month, I told you about the election to annex the residents of the Jefferson County Indian Ford Fire District into the City. The election was held on September 12th with the residents voting overwhelmingly to annex to become a part of our family. Our commitment to you is as it is with all our citizens; first responder protection you can trust and rely on as well as access to city services. Indian Ford residents will see a reduced property tax rate from (15 mils to 5) and improved ISO Fire rating

both resulting in a cost savings to you. Welcome to Helena.

It is my honor to inform you that after a long and illustrious career, Fire Chief, Pete Valenti, will be retiring from their position after over 30 years of outstanding service to our community. The retirement of Chief Valenti marks the end of an era, as he has tirelessly worked to ensure the safety and security of our citizens. We owe him a debt of gratitude for his unwavering commitment and leadership. The search for a new Fire Chief is already complete. We were dedicated to finding an exceptional candidate who possesses the necessary skills, experience, and integrity to lead our fire department effectively. The selection process was thorough and transparent, involving input from various stakeholders and a rigorous review process to ensure the suitability of the chosen candidate.

I encourage you to stay engaged with the city’s news and updates through our official website cityofhelena.org. Your voice and opinions matter, and we welcome your feedback through our online action center.

Thank you for your continued support and trust in our shared mission to build a prosperous, safe, and inclusive city for all. By working together, we can achieve remarkable things and create a brighter future for generations to come.

mayor of Helena

Mayor Brian Puckett

In this issue

FEATURES

29 Preparing the future

Explorer programs are exciting for future first responders

39 Back to Buck Creek

The annual Buck Creek Festival returns this month

24 Sideline report

Students create Husky Gameday to highlight sports programs

EDITORIAL

Donald

Barton Perkins

Andrew Simonson

Noah Wortham

Sydney Allen

Jamie Dawkins

Rowan Futrell

Connor Martin-Lively

Jeremy Raines PHOTOGRAPHY

Rhett McCreight

Tori Montjoy-Smith

Michaela Hancock

Viridiana Romero

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

uSpire – 1-800-292-4008 spireenergy.com

Gas

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

BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL

OCT. 6-7

Amphitheater Park

The event residents across Helena look forward to each year is set to return with the annual Buck Creek Festival coming to the banks of Buck Creek Oct. 6-7 at Helena’s Amphitheater Park. The event will make its return to the fall for the first time since 2021. Set in Helena’s Amphitheater Park, this familyfriendly event will start on Friday, Oct. 6 from 6-10 p.m., and will then pick up again on Saturday with the festival kicking off at 10 a.m. on Oct. 7 and ending at 10 p.m. that night.

THE GUIDE

Helena Pumpkin House

Helena Welcome Center

The debut date for this year’s Pumpkin House is Oct. 20. For the past five years, members of the city transform the pergola in the center of Old Town into a true symbol of the season. Approximately 400 pumpkins from the Finley Ave. Farmers Market with twinkling string lights, scarecrows and more will make up the display. The Pumpkin House will remain open from Oct. 20 until Nov. 16 just before decoration begins for Christmas.

Annual Shelby County Amateur Radio Club Hamfest/Tailgate

6 P.M. Amphitheater Park

The Shelby County Amateur Radio Club, a non-profit organization, will host its annual Hamfest and Tailgate at Helena’s Amphitheatre Park on Oct. 21st from 8 a.m. until noon. The event will allow people involved in the hobby to buy, sell or trade ham radio gear. Organizers will also have radio stations set up for people to learn about amateur radio and even get on the air to talk. There is no admission fee, or fee to setup a table or to sell goods. It is a family event and all are welcome.

Monday,

Helena’s city council meetings take place the second and fourth Mondays of the month. This month, the only meeting will be on Monday, Oct. 23 due to Columbus Day on Oct. 9. The city council meetings are open to the public and offer the chance for you to get involved in the planning of your community.

AROUND

EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

OCT. 3 | 5 P.M.

Helena volleyball vs. Pelham (Away)

OCT. 5 | 5 P.M.

Helena volleyball vs. Briarwood (Away)

OCT. 6 | 6 P.M.

First day of the Buck Creek Festival

OCT. 6 | 7 P.M.

Helena football vs. Briarwood

OCT. 7 | TBA

Helena volleyball tournament: Muscle Shoals Tourney (Away)

OCT. 7 | 10 A.M.

Second day of the Buck Creek Festival

OCT. 10 | 5 P.M.

Helena volleyball vs. Hillcrest

OCT. 12 | 5 P.M.

Helena volleyball vs. Tuscaloosa County HS (Away)

OCT. 13-14 | ALL DAY

Varsity Volleyball

Tournamanet: Blalock Tourney (Away)

OCT. 14 | ALL DAY

Helena Cross Country: Helena Invitational

OCT. 16 | 4 P.M.

Helena volleyball vs. Oak Mountain (Away)

OCT. 19 | 6 P.M.

Planning & Zoning Committee meeting

OCT. 20 | 6 P.M.

Debut of the 2023 Helena Pumpkin House

OCT. 20 | 7 P.M.

Helena football vs. Calera

OCT. 21 | ALL DAY

Cross Country: Husky Challenge (In Trussville)

OCT. 21 | 8 A.M.

Annual Shelby County Amateur Radio Club Hamfest/ Tailgate

OCT. 23 | 6 P.M.

Helena City Council meeting

OCT. 24 | 4 P.M. Municipal Court

OCT. 25 | 10:30 A.M.

Cute as a Pumpkin senior program at the library

OCT. 25 | ALL DAY Make-up High School picture day (regular and seniors)

OCT. 27 | 7 P.M.

Helena football vs. Benjamin Russell (Away)

HELENA TEEN COUNCIL ELECTS NEW OFFICERS

On Monday, Aug. 28 the Helena Teen Council hosted elections with a fair popular vote for their new officers. The Teen Council elected Riley Hollabaugh as President, Cooper Tucker as Vice President, Brant Laird as Secretary, and Jake Bell as Social Media Chair.

LEARNING STATION DONATED TO HELENA LIBRARY BY SWCD

The Helena library now has access to Ag Learning Stations thanks to the efforts of the Shelby County Soil and Water Conservation District. The stations are intended for students in K2 through K5 and educate on the topics of agriculture and conservation.

HELENA POLICE DEPARTMENT VISITS PRESCHOOL DURING COMMUNITY HELPERS WEEK

Officer Murphy, who serves as a school resource officer at Helena Intermediate School, took time to visit the gathered children at Helena Methodist Preschool on Sept. 6. He talked to the students about his job with the Helena Police Department and the daily work expected from a police officer. The Preschoolers were also allowed to view his police truck, complete with a lights and siren display.

The Helena public library, in joint partnership with the Helena Historic Preservation Committee, presented a talk featuring Mrs. Laura and Dr. Mark Steltenpohl on Monday, Aug. 21 that occurred at Helena City Hall. The discussion, titled Stories from the Roadside Geology of Alabama, focused on the Steltenpohls’ efforts in writing their recently released book, Roadside Geology of Alabama.

HELENA HOSTS TALK ON STATE’S ROADSIDE ROCKS

HELENA HIGH SCHOOL NAMED AMONG TOP 25 SCHOOLS IN ALABAMA

The most recent rankings from U.S. News and World Report have ranked Helena High School at No. 21 for the best school in the state of Alabama. The methodology for the rankings base the scores on the graded categories of college readiness, state assessment proficiency, state assessment performance, underserved student performance, college curriculum breadth and graduation rate.

As of Aug. 22, the city is currently seeking an accomplished fire service professional to serve as the next Fire Chief. The successful candidate will lead the Fire Department and achieve operational success through their vision, strategy, and leadership. The Fire Chief, once appointed, will also serve as the Emergency Management Director. This search comes following the announcement that current Fire Chief Peter Valenti will soon be retiring after more than 30 years with the Helena Fire Department.

HELENA HOLDS DEDICATION OF HISTORIC RAILROAD MARKER

The Helena Historic Preservation Committee (HHPC), in close cooperation with the city of Helena and the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, held a dedication that marked the restoration of a historic railroad mile post on Sunday, Aug. 27. The Post can be viewed on the Hillsboro Trail near the entrance to Lee Springs Park.

HELENA CITY COUNCIL PAYS TRIBUTE TO KHALIA SMITH

The Helena City Council approved a resolution in remembrance and recognition of the life of Khalia Smith during a regularly scheduled city council meeting on Monday, Aug. 14. The recognition honoring Smith made specific mention of her outspoken belief in God, noted her as an avid volunteer worker in both her church and local community and detailed her outstanding academic record.

HELENA LOOKS TO APPOINT NEW FIRE CHIEF

HELENA FIRE DEPARTMENT TAKES PART IN MEDEVAC TRAINING

Members of the Helena Fire Department were involved in medical evacuation trainings hosted by the Alabama Air National Guard during the last week of July. The classes sought to build relationships with civilian partner agencies and to teach necessary skills regarding the safe transportation of patients in cases of disaster or emergency.

HELENA KIWANIS CLUB MAKES DONATION TO SALVATION ARMY

The Helena Kiwanis Club made a donation in the amount of $500 to the Salvation Army on Aug. 22. The Salvation Army utilizes donated funds in their efforts to support and provide services to vulnerable populations.

HELENA HUSKIES OPEN 2023 SEASON WITH WIN OVER RIVAL CHELSEA

The Helena Huskies debuted their varsity football program in a season opener ending with a staggering victor over their rival Chelsea on Thursday, Aug. 24. Helena made an emphatic statement with a 50-14 win over the Chelsea Hornets.

HELENA SWEEPS JOHN CARROLL TO EARN WIN IN AREA OPENER

Helena entered their match with John Carroll on Aug. 31 looking for a rebound win to kick off area play, and they did just that with a strong straight-sets win over the Cavaliers.

Every spectrum of eye care.

At UAB Callahan Eye, we’re focused on providing vision-saving care at every level — from the only 24/7 eye emergency room in Alabama to daily eye care from expert physicians.

See the di erence at uabcallahaneye.org.

HELENA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CELEBRATES GRANDPARENTS DAY

Helena Elementary School recognized Grandparents Day on Sept. 8 by inviting the students’ elders to school for breakfast and several other activities. More than 100 of these special guests took part in the event and showed just how much they care for their students.

HELENA TAKES COUNTY BATTLE OVER CALERA

After downing John Carroll on Thursday, Aug. 31, the Huskies opened a new week with another sweep against county rival Calera on Tuesday, Sept. 5 in dominant fashion.

HELENA OVERCOMES EARLY DEFICIT TO BEAT HOMEWOOD IN REGION OPENER

The Helena Huskies overcame an early deficit on Friday, Sept. 8 when they continued their marched to a 3-0 start to the season, defeating the Homewood Patriots 31-17 on the road to open region play.

HELENA HANDLES BUCKHORN AS HUSKIES REPEAT DOMINANT WAYS

Helena defeated Buckhorn, 55-7, on Friday, Sept. 1 to improve to 2-0 before Class 6A, Region 3 play begins next week with a trip to Homewood.

SCHOOL STAFF ENJOYS COMMUNITY SCAVENGER HUNT

On Monday, Aug. 14, Helena Elementary School staff took part in a scavenger hunt that focused on teaching them about the local geographic area. The hunt took them to several local businesses and locations throughout Helena.

INDIAN FORD FIRE DISTRICT VOTES IN FAVOR OF ANNEXATION BY HELENA

Citizens of the Indian Ford Fire District arrived at the polls and voted in favor of their district’s annexation into the city of Helena on Tuesday, Sept. 12.

THE HELENA CITY COUNCIL PASSES THE GENERAL FUND BUDGET FOR FY 2024

The Helena City Council officially approved their budget for the 2024 fiscal year. This news comes after a great deal of work to ensure that the city’s money is utilized appropriately and as efficiently as possible. Helena’s general fund budget for the 2024 fiscal year totals in the amount of $12.4 million.

GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY

TVisiting the library offers a fun outing that gets families out into the community to utilize a FREE and fun resource!

As the days get shorter, fall offers a perfect opportunity to find a new book to read. For younger kids, something to help with learning to read is a great choice.

If you are a growing reader or teen, having a book to read for pleasure can offer a good way to take a break from a busy academic schedule.

If you are an adult, look for something new and inspiring, like bestselling fiction, a biography or the latest non-fiction.

Library Director

Dan Dearing

One area people often overlook is the library’s DVD collection. Streaming and other services have changed the way people watch movies and television, but for the price and simplicity, the library is still a great option.

New titles arrive weekly, and the citizens of Helena have invested in a great collection of movies for all ages. DVDs check out for one week and they are one dollar per day if late. This is a great value for price conscious movie lovers!

UPCOMING LIBRARY EVENTS INCLUDE:

uStorytime – Held every Tuesday and Thursday at 11 a.m. Storytime features a neat program with stories, music and movement for preschool aged children.

uAppearance by Norton Dill – On Oct. 2 there will be a great event, featuring an appearance by musician Norton Dill. The program will be held at Helena City Hall at 5:45 p.m.

uFree prize with a book – On Wednesday, Oct. 18, teens will have the opportunity to check out any one book and receive a FREE prize.

uSenior program – On Wednesday, Oct. 25 at 10:30 a.m., the library will present a senior program, called, “Cute as a Pumpkin,” featuring a pumpkin button frame craft.

uFun Fall Crafts for Kids – On Monday, Oct. 30, visitors to the library can enjoy a fun crafting event for the kids! This event will take placed from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. and is intended for children, ages 4 and up.

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

October’s Top Picks

THE EXCHANGE: AFTER THE FIRM

By John Grisham | Adult Fiction

Bestselling author John Grisham delivers high-flying international suspense in a stunning new legal thriller that marks the return of Mitch McDeere, the brilliant hero of The Firm.

GLUCOSE REVOLUTION: THE LIFECHANGING POWER OF BALANCING YOUR BLOOD SUGAR

By Jessie Inchuspe | Adult Nonfiction

Improve all areas of your health—your sleep, cravings, mood, energy, skin, weight—with easy, science-based hacks to manage your blood sugar while still eating the foods you love.

OUTLIVE: THE SCIENCE AND ART OF LONGEVITY

By Peter Attia MD | Adult Nonfiction

In this operating manual for longevity, Dr. Peter Attia delivers innovative nutritional interventions, techniques for exercise and sleep and tools for addressing emotional and mental health.

THE LITTLE MERMAID: AGAINST THE TIDE

By J. Elle | Young Adult

An original novel inspired by Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

MY WEIRD SCHOOL GRAPHIC NOVEL: MR. CORBETT IS IN ORBIT!

By Dan Gutman | Juvenile

In this first book, A.J. and his friends at Ella Mentry School are headed on a field trip to NASA headquarters. But their tour guide, Mr. Corbett, is a total space cadet! Full of visual gags, space aliens, and hilarious full-color illustrations, this graphic novel is out of this world!

BRUCE AND THE LEGEND OF SOGGY HOLLOW

By Ryan T. Higgins | Easy/Picture

Bruce is a bear who really doesn’t like Halloween. Will Bruce get in the Halloween spirit? Or will the Halloween spirit get Bruce?

Hope lives

Our dedicated doctors, nurses, researchers and staff are committed to finding a cure, so kids like Adrian can live their healthiest life – cancer free. We never give up hope of a world without childhood cancer and blood disorders, and that’s why we are here.

CAMMI PUGH

Helena High School athlete

How long have you been involved in the sport of volleyball? Do you play any other sports in addition to it?

I have been playing volleyball since I was in the seventh grade. I also play softball and have been playing since I was seven years old.

What do you enjoy most about the sport?

Volleyball is fast paced and is very much a team sport. It’s fun to be surrounded by people that want and need you to succeed more than they want it for themselves.

Are you considering playing volleyball at the college level and beyond?

I am not. I am going to focus on my schoolwork and future career.

With Coach Livingston now leading the program, are you excited about the season as it is getting underway? Are there any aspects of the season or school year you are particularly excited about?

It is a bittersweet feeling, I am so thankful that Coach Liv stepped up for us, she sees a potential in us that we sometimes don’t see in ourselves. I am very excited to begin my senior season with my team, I think we will make a good run, so it’s definitely exciting.

How do you juggle academic responsibilities with your athletic commitments?

At the high school they allow so many resources and ways to succeed in your school and sports, so that has been amazing. But, I’ve also had to learn to manage my time and be responsible with how I use my free time.

Can you share a particularly challenging moment or obstacle you have faced in our volleyball journey? How did you overcome it?

Going into junior year we had a new coaching staff and they wanted me to play a position that I had never played before. It was scary and challenging because I was competiting for a position against girls who had been playing it for years at that point. As the season came around, I ended up surprising myself. I learned that hard work doesn’t go unnoticed, and challenging yourself is a good thing and being surrounded by people that challenge you will only make you better.

What would you like people to know about the dedication and commitment required to excel in your sport?

It takes a lot of commitment and hard work to excel in anything that you do, sometimes you may have to make sacrifices that you don’t want to, but, in the long run, it is worth it.

Outside of sports, what other activities do you take part in and enjoy?

I love spending time with my family and friends.

RILEY HOLLABAUGH & MIAH ROSENER

Helena High School students, Teen Council members and members of Husky Gameday

Tell us about the Husky Gameday program, what is it that you do at the games, and how is it run?

R: Husky Gameday is a club that my friends and I organized. Our sponsor is Melissa Copeland, a teacher at Helena High School. We were inspired by ESPN College Gameday, where they do predications on who will win and do interviews.

M: It is just a fun way to get everyone excited about the games. We do interviews with players and coaches and also funny little segments as well. It’s organized by Cammi Pugh, Maddie Ingber, Presley Lively, Riley, and myself.

Does the program reflect anything you’d like to do as a career in the future?

R: I definitely enjoy recording and editing videos. Right now, I’m really interested in real estate and becoming a real estate agent/developer.

M: I don’t personally see myself taking a career in broadcast journalism, I’m just having fun with my friends! What I’m most interested in pursuing is a career in interior design.

What is it that you like most about this program, and what led you to join it?

R: I think what I like the most is that my friends and I just get to have a good time making funny videos and making people laugh.

M: I think my favorite part of the program is just having a good time and hearing people tell us about how they liked or saw videos that we have posted.

Are the presentations recorded or broadcast? If so, where can they be found?

M: Yes, the videos are prerecorded and can be found on our Instagram and Tiktok.

R: We post our videos on our Instagram @huskygameday or our Tiktok @husky_gameday.

How are you liking the school year and your roles with the Helena Teen Council so far?

R: I’m liking school a lot so far this year. I also was just elected to be President of Helena Teen Council, so I am very excited for this year all that comes with it! I think we have a great teen council this year.

M: So far, the school year has gone really well. I’m just soaking it all up before it is gone. As far as Teen Council goes, I had so much fun last year and am so excited to see how we will place an impact in our city this year!

What led you to be involved with the Helena Teen Council?

R: As my grandmother is the sponsor of the Teen Council, I have always seen what they get to do. So, I was really excited to join last year!

M: I decided to join Teen Council as a way to get involved in the city and its events and also as a way to just learn about what is going on in our city.

City Hall Faces

Hunter Lindsey

Water Technician for the city of Helena

For the last two-and-a-half years, Hunter Lindsey has served as a water technician for the city of Helena. Helena Water Board’s mission is to ensure the proper planning, operation, and maintenance of the infrastructure that supplies high quality drinking water and water services to the households and commercial properties within the city.

In serving that mission, Lindsey is responsible for the identification, diagnosis, and repair of water leaks to any lines managed by city water. He also holds the duty of reading and maintaining water meters and the maintaining and repair of any other systems or instruments pertaining to the operation of city water.

“I enjoy working with a great group of guys and getting issues resolved quickly and correctly,” He said. “Clean, safe, reliable water for the people of Helena is the priority. You never know

what difficulties someone may be facing in their life, so when we restore service it feels good to think maybe it helped them out a little bit.”

Lindsey views himself as a lifelong resident of Helena, and has called the city his home for virtually his entire life. Although his time working with Helena’s water is a relatively new chapter in his life, he enjoys helping and serving in his hometown and does his best to honor God and serve the community in a way that makes a noticeable difference each and every day.

“No matter where I go, I’ve always been happy to come home,” Lindsey said. “Despite the traffic at times, I love it here in Helena. My bosses and my coworkers are the best and I genuinely enjoy coming to work.”

Outside of his work with the city, Lindsey is happily married with three children that he “loves more than life itself.”

Helena Church Directory

ANGLICAN

Lamb of God Church

Head pastor: Caron Glenn Davis

5140 Hwy 17

(205) 919-7932

Lambofgodcec.org

BAPTIST:

The Church at Old Town

Head Pastor: Josh Knierim

815 Highway 52 E

(205) 663-7879

Thechurchatoldtown.org

Gospel Light Baptist Church

Lead Pastor: Gary Bohman

5781 Roy Drive

(205) 685-0772

Glbcbham.com

Mount Pleasant Baptist Church

Head Pastor: Edwin Dinkles

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

NON-DENOMINATIONAL:

Open Door Independent Church

120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963

Opendooral.com

Cornerstone Church Life Christian Fellowship

Lead Pastor: Rev. Tim Trimble

2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332

Cornerstonechurchhelena.org

Church at Cahaba Bend

Lead Pastor: Rev. Patrick Friday

3721 Hwy 52 West (205) 621-8060

Cahababend.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

Helena Methodist Church

Grace Christian Church

Shawn and Caroline Kirkland

Shawn and Caroline Kirkland first moved to the city of Helena in February 2018 from Montgomery.

Since becoming residents of Helena, Shawn and Caroline have had three children, the oldest of whom is their four-year-old son, Noah.

Despite his young age, Noah visibly displays great dedication and enthusiasm for Jiu-Jitsu, which is a popular self-defense martial art and combat sport that is primarily based on the practices of grappling, ground fighting and submission holding techniques. It is a sport that his father, Shawn, has long admired and respected.

For the Kirkland family, discipline, fitness, and health aren’t just words but a way of life, they are also principles that are taught in Jiu-Jitsu.

Beginning when he was just three years old, Noah began his martial arts journey in August 2022 and immediately found a passion for it. He quickly developed his own aspirations of participating in tournaments and started doing so in the spring of 2023. Noah now practices in private coaching sessions every

month and attends intermittent competition classes every few months.

Noah also proudly graduated up to the grey belt this spring. Already a champion, Noah has impressively placed in several tournaments so far:

Gracie Barra Tournament, Pelham, Alabama: 2nd Place

Compnet Tennessee Tournament, Nashville, Alabama: 3rd Place

Gracie Barra Tournament, Pelham, Alabama: 3rd Place

NAGA Tournament, Foley, Alabama: 3rd Place

With an unwavering spirit, Noah is also slated to compete in several more tournaments this year, including ones in Chattanooga, TN, Destin, FL and Pelham and Birmingham, AL. With all of that said, life isn’t all training and tournaments for the Kirkland family. Helena has quickly nestled itself into the family’s heart. Sundays see the family indulge in Noah’s favorite food, queso, at the local Mexican restaurant after a morning of church. The local parks, especially Joe Tucker Park, are also family favorites. The Kirkland family truly cherishes the sense of community they share with everyone in Helena.

GUARDIANS OF TOMORROW

Helena’s Explorer programs serve as the training ground for Helena’s future heroes

BY DONALD MOTTERN PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES AND CONTRIBUTED

IIn the city of Helena, the commitment to community safety and service is a quintessential element in the fabric of the community. Thanks to the efforts of some of Helena’s current police and firefighters, young individuals that are eager to make a positive impact have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in those essential services through the two department’s Explorer programs. These initiatives not only provide invaluable experiences and vocational insight, but they also foster personal growth, community engagement and serve to mold the future guardians of Helena.

These programs have a long history both in Helena, and the nation as a whole. Explorer programs are designed as interactive career education programs that put participants at the worksite of the career represented. In that vein, participants, as their titles represent, explore the career fields in question and learn what the careers entail, learning all they can along the way.

On the whole, the Exploring programs are organized under Learning for Life, which is an affiliate of the Boy Scouts of America. That being said, posts are open to both men and women who

have reached the age and grade levels required.

“You have to be at least 14 and then, at age 21, the explorer ages out (of the program).” said Sgt. Adam Sample, the head advisor for Post 790. “Between the ages of 14 and 21, they are welcome and encouraged to show up every day that they meet.”

For the city of Helena, students and others in the age range have the opportunity to partake in the Helena Police Department’s Explorer Post 790 and the Helena Fire Department’s Explorer Post 2060. Police explorers meet each Monday while fire explorers meet every Thursday.

Wes Channell, who currently serves as the interim captain of the Helena Fire and Rescue Department’s Explorer Post until a full appointment is made, is

one of many who can cite their involvement in the Explorers as a root cause of their lasting participation in the field. In September, he started recruit school with Birmingham Fire and Rescue. Although his involvement with the Helena Fire Explorer Post will be limited by this, he still plans to take part in every opportunity that presents itself.

“I initially joined the program (during) my 7th grade year at Helena Middle School but had to take a short hiatus until my eleventh-grade year,” Channell said. “(I) have been a part of the program (and the Helena Fire Department) ever since.”

In fact, the two programs in Helena have generated a long line of first responders and officers that have aged out of the programs and gone on to

serve Helena and the surrounding areas.

“As long as we’ve been around, you would be hard pressed to find any police department in Shelby County that doesn’t have a former explorer working for them,” Sample said. “I know we’ve got people that came through our post in our current leadership areas here, in our administrative staff, in our supervisors and at other cities. I know we’ve aged out a couple here recently that have gone into the military. We’ve had so many come through our post that went on to law enforcement in Shelby County.”

Another of Helena’s firefighters, Matthew Mayfield, currently serves as an advisor to Explorer Post 2060. Mayfield, who also serves as a firefighter and hazmat technician with the Birmingham Fire Department in addition to his roles in Helena, started his career following the training and preparation he received during his

participation in the Helena Fire Explorers. In March 2016, while still in the program, he was recognized by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Children and Disasters Newsletter for his work promoting fire safety. Mayfield is but one example of the many success stories to have come from the two programs.

For those interested, the posts operate under an ongoing basis organized into weekly meetings, meaning that the programs are not carried out in the traditional class or curriculum model. The Explorer posts are instead designed as ongoing experiences that can be joined at any time. In the same spirit, participants, while they are strongly encouraged to do so, are not required to attend every meeting.

“It’s one of those things where we understand that a lot of the kids have things going on like band,

football, and even jobs because we do have 19 and 20 year olds,” Sample said. “But it is one of those things that the more you put into it the more you’ll get out of it.”

Both posts seek to ensure that the experience is one that balances community interaction and outreach with on-hand and involved exposure to activities found in the lines of work being represented.

“We provide hands-on training and set up scenarios pertaining to the situation we are training on,” Channell said. “We are involved in many public events such as the Buck Creek Festival and Old Town Live. We also work football games to allow the explorers to interact with the community.

In addition to these trainings, which in the past

have included mock wildland fire exercises, trauma life support techniques and EMS procedures, fire explorers also take an annual trip to the Alabama Fire College that allows them to experience what their recruit school will be like should they decide to pursue fire and rescue as a career. While, of course, not being the same trainings and experiences, Post 790 also offers similar avenues and exposure to the fieldwork seen in law enforcement.

“During our meetings, what we’ll do is have a topic of instruction,” Sample said. “Those topics usually start with more of a classroom feel and lecture and then it leads on into hands on stuff. It ranges from everything, we’ll teach the kids about working a wreck, or collecting evidence at a crime scene, courtroom testimony, what to do in case of a

bomb threat and how to pull over a car. There is all types of things and scenarios that we go over with them teaching them how to handle.”

Both posts also involve themselves in state and national level competitions where they are pitted alongside other fire and law enforcement posts from other areas and municipalities. Such competitions commonly take these learning scenarios and involve participants displaying their retained knowledge of correct procedure and providing an able-bodied effort.

Although these programs have a surface level intent of placing their respective careers on full display for those interested in pursuing them, the secondary aspects of the Explorer posts are also equally as important. It is important to note that the posts are not merely ride-along programs, but that they also serve to construct bonds, friendships and understandings that will serve the participants throughout all aspects of their lives.

“I feel the program is a great thing for young people looking to find a place of belonging,” Channell said. “Middle and high school are rough

times for many people and this program gives you the opportunity to be around some great people, (and to) learn and prepare yourself for the future.”

Per their guiding principles, both posts aim to educate participants on five major emphases which include developing knowledge on career opportunities in the field pertaining to the post, developing life skills, teaching the importance of citizenship, developing the character and ethics of each participant and the provision of valuable leadership experience to those in the programs.

“A lot of times, I think, people miss the idea, (They think) that because it’s a law enforcement post that it is just geared for people that are going into law enforcement, or who want to be a police officer, or are going into the military,” Sample said. “We’ve got a lot of kids right now that will never see those career fields, but are still meeting people, learning new things, making connections and having friends. A lot of them do go on to careers in law enforcement or the military, but a lot of them don’t and we say that’s okay. As long as you take

something that we can give you and you’re better for that.”

Sample and Channell both emphasized their posts’ responsibilities of instilling kids with life lessons regardless of where they go or what they ultimately decide to do for a living. For Sgt. Sample especially, it is an aspect of the program that he finds truly rewarding.

“Building relationships with the kids, especially when they first start, and seeing them blossom and doing things, after some time in the program, that they never, in a million years, thought they would have been able to do when they first started—being able to see them grow with the program—is one of my favorite parts.”

From that perspective, it is clear that Helena’s Explorer Post 790 and 2060 are not only educating interested students about noble career paths, but

that they are also crafting the guardians of tomorrow, whether they choose to wear a uniform or not.

“The main goal for our program is not just to prepare people for the fire service but to prepare people for life and I think I would definitely like to see that trend continue once I am long gone,” Channell said.

Those seeking to learn more about the Exploring programs as a whole can find a wealth of information at Exploring.org.

Those interested in the Helena Police Department’s Explorer Post 790 are encouraged to contact Sgt. Adam Sample at asample@cityofhelena. org.

Those interested in the Helena Fire Department’s Explorer Post 2060 can reach out by email at helenafireexplorers61@gmail.com

“Middle and high school are rough times for many people and this program gives you the opportunity to be around some great people, (and to) learn and prepare yourself for the future.”

- WES CHANNELL

HELENA'S BUCK CREEK FESTIVAL

Buck Creek Festival ready for another big event Oct. 6-7

BY ALEC ETHEREDGE

The event residents across Helena look forward to each year is set to return with the annual Buck Creek Festival coming to the banks of Buck Creek Oct. 6-7 at Helena’s Amphitheater Park.

The event will make its return to the fall for the first time since 2021 after it moved back to May for one year before the logistics of the fall event helped with improving this year’s festivities.

“It seems like everyone in Helena looks forward to Helena’s Buck Creek Festival, and we are so glad to be back again this year with a festival in the fall,” said Buck Creek Festival President JoAnna Harmon. “Even though the time of year is different, everything else will be what the community expects of this iconic festival.”

Set in Helena Amphitheater Park, this family-friendly event will start on Friday, Oct. 6 with hours ranging from 6-10 p.m., while it will then pick up again on Saturday with the festival kicking off at 10 a.m. on Oct. 7 and ending at 10 p.m. that night.

“The community should come out expecting exceptional local arts and craft as well as retail vendors, food vendors, live music, kids play area and the beer tent,” Harmon said. “Helena’s Buck Creek Festival strives to continue the legacy of this festival that started more than 20 years ago and this year is no different.”

In May of this year, the community lost Jim McKinley, one of the original Buck Creek Festival committee members.

“In speaking with family and friends, everyone said that Jim McKinley’s favorite part of the festival was the music, so this year the stage will be named the Jim McKinley Stage,” Harmon said. “Starting off the music Friday night at 6 p.m. will be Love Rat followed by Rick Carter & Friends.

Saturday the Jim McKinley Stage will start up at 10 a.m. and will feature music by bands such as Suburban Love Junkies and Jupiter Coyote.

Not to be missed is the iconic Duck Race. Helena’s High School Band will once again sell raffle tickets to get your duck in the race.

In addition to ducks, this is the only place to get a HBCF festival shirt. For $25, you can get a flock of five ducks and a festival shirt, while single ducks are sold for $5 each.

Duck presales will be sold at local businesses and through band students, while the band will also have a duck sales booth at the festival.

The duck race will kick off with the cannon blast at 3 p.m. on Saturday. Prizes to race winners are $500 for first place, $250 for second place and $100 for third place.

Winners will be announced at the Jim McKinley stage following the race.

The festival committee is excited to announce that this year, the children’s play area will run extended hours. The play area will be available from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Saturday.

Wrist bands for all day access to the play area will be $10 per child and can be purchased with cash at the play area. Card purchases for wrist bands will be available at the two beer tents.

“My favorite thing about the festival is getting the community to come together down by the creek,” HBCF Secretary Crystal McLoughlin said. “We have something for everyone. Want to relax and listen to music, do a little shopping and support local artisans, eat some interesting food from our numerous food trucks, or let your kids run free in the revamped play area or splash around in the creek—we have you covered! Come stay for the day or only an hour whatever works for you and your fam jam and we promise you will have a blast down by the creek.”

The HBCF committee and volunteers looks forward to hosting you at this year’s festival.

Buck Creek Festival 2023 Sponsors

MEDIA SPONSORS

Helena The Magazine

Shelby County Reporter

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Gulf Distributing

Vulcan Materials

Discover Shelby

Coca-Cola

PATRON SPONSORS

Central State Bank

Steakhouse of Helena

Hey Bebe

OFFICIAL SPONSORS

Oversoul Brewing

Cahaba Dental Arts

Helena High School Band Boosters

El Tejano

Soul Story Therapy

Brian D Hayes

Chick-Fil-A Helena

Regulators MC Cahaba

Danielle Portera Lang Fine Art

ACTIVITY SPONSORS

Uptown Salon

Old Town Realty Group

Cedar Creek Nursery

CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS

Hughes Jewelry

FOOD

Buck Creek Festival Vendors

Freckled Leopard Boutique

Fuzzy Buttz

Corn King

El Tejano

Hey Bebe

Kona Ice

Parasol Treats

Stacked and Stuffed

T & A Ohana Lemonade

Thirstea Cafe

Uncle G’s Pizza Food Truck

Venice Gelato

RETAIL

Alabama Adult and Teen Challenge

AllieStudioCo

B & E Clothing

Be The One By Berenice

Bears Tye Dyes

Beauty From Ashes

Binx’s Baskets

Borth Naturals

Buck Creek Woodworks

Bungy Jump by Happenings

Candy Mayer Art

CrochetedSun

CrysTee’s Shirts and More

Danielle Portera Lang Fine Art

Decorating with Pam

Dolce Vita Candle Co

First Fruits Ministries

GH Designs

Glow Gallery

Golden Belle Candle Company

Grandmas Door Decor

Grateful Lotus

Honey Boutique

Honey Creek

iGumbo-Art

Iron City Installs

Ivory LeShores Gourmet Bread

Jewelry Junki

Jodie’s Canvases

Kacee J Designs

Kerri’s Kloset

L&K Authentic Creations

Lar-Ren’s Farm Wood Turning

LBS Car Coasters

Let’s Geaux Farming

Little Shop

Lydia Anne’s Boutique

Mamalogg Creations

Mary Kay (Susie Serio)

Mary Porter

Masquerade Face Painting

Melon Momma Designs

MJ Designs

Randall Hanson

Rhodes Soapery

Rhonda White

Rock Creek Boutique

Roxie’s Puptique

Savior Stones

Siluria Mills Co.

Southern Tumbler Design

The Magnolia Bookshop

Twisted Peacock

Two L’s Creations

UltiMutt Dogventures and Nutrition LLC

Vora Kanya

AFS Foundation Repair

Avadian Credit Union

Brocks Gap Eye Care

Cahaba Riverkeeper

Central State Bank

Helena House of Prayer

Helena Library

Help Hope Live

Humana

Integrative Health Services

Karen Pierce, Keller Williams Realtor

Leaf Guard

LeafFilter

Old Town Realty Group

Precision Chiropractic

R&R Home Systems

Soul Story Therapy

The Uptown Salon

Therapy South Helena

Widows Link

HELENA OLD TOWN LIVE

Helena residents and visitors showed up in number to say goodbye to Helena Old Town Live, which held its last event of the season on Saturday, Aug. 12.

1. Bradley, Oliver and Andy Poe.

2. Calvin Holmes and Natalie Fannin.

3. Candy Campbell and Holly Holmes.

4. Chris, Corbin and Jenna Miller.

5. David Vadnais and Ana Blackburn.

6. Erin and Bert Davis.

7. Brian Puckett with Mitt, Will and Tatum Schroeder.

PHOTOS BY DONALD MOTTERN

HELENA STUDENTS RETURN TO SCHOOL

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

1. Benton, Addie, Collier Dakota and Kara Burleson

2. Callaway Phillips

3. Easton Blackwell

4. Helena Elementary School first grader and SCBOE network tech

5. Helena High School freshman

6. Helena High School freshmen

7. Helena Intermediate and Elementary students

8. Helena Intermediate School third grader

9. Helena Middle School sixth grader

In an end to the summer vacation, Helena’s students began their new school year with an air of excitement on Thursday, Aug. 10.

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OFF AND ROLLING

THE HELENA FOOTBALL TEAM OPENED THE 2023 SEASON WITH A 3-0 START, INCLUDING A BIG 31-17 WIN IN THEIR REGION OPENER AGAINST THE HOMEWOOD PATRIOTS. THE HUSKIES OVERCAME A 10-0 DEFICIT IN THE COMEBACK WIN TO GET OFF TO WHAT THEY HOPE IS A PROMISING START TO A BIG SEASON IN THE REGION. FOLLOW SHELBYCOUNTYREPORTER. COM AND THE HELENA – THE MAGAZINE FACEBOOK PAGE ALL SEASON FOR UPDATES.

PHOTOS FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES AND LARRY DANCY

Buck Creek Festival

Displaying our creativity

At the annual Buck Creek Festival, I get to display and sell my stained-glass creations to my friends and neighbors. I also put out my own Christmas ornaments and holiday decorations as well, which will fit well with the festival being held in October this year.

MY HELENA MONICA JOSEPHSON

Local Resident and happily retired with her husband, Rick

The Helena Christmas Parade Riding into the holidays

In mentioning Christmas, I also love that our Harley group rides in the parade in front of Santa’s fire truck as if we were his team of 8 reindeer, plus Rudolph. Afterwards we ride for a block behind the shops and stop at my house for lunch. This upcoming year will be the third time the Pelham Chapter has done this.

Fourth of July

Witnessing the rockets’ red glare

Speaking of holidays, the Fourth of July is especially cool for us in Helena. It is special because we can walk around downtown, walk home and cookout with family and friends. Then we can watch the city’s fireworks from our back deck. We never have to worry about parking and living in an old town gives us easy access to anything that is going on.

The Old Town Experience

Enjoying Helena from our own perspectives

Living in a 140-year-old renovated home in Old Town Helena is the best place to be. Living the life of retirees, we greatly enjoy Helena Old Town and what it has to offer. When I have out of town guests, we stroll down to Goodfellas for a drink on the deck, walk to Beef O’Bradys for dinner and then walk back home. We love wandering through the shops so close to home, we even love our trains.

Buck Creek and the Cahaba River Exploring our natural features

Besides the special events, holidays, and festivals which we have at our fingertips, we love kayaking in Buck Creek and the Cahaba River. Every so often, we take our kayaks to Buck Creek, drop them in above the dam, and have fun paddling upstream before following the current back down. When we want a longer ride, we drop into the creek and paddle to the Cahaba River. It’s a nice thing to have access to on a hot day, and we’ve even brought our grandsons with us at times.