YOUTH FOURTH GRADE TEAMS FIND SUCCESS
HELENA PE TEACHERS AWARDED SPECIAL GRANT
City Leadership
A New Chapter in 2025
As we turn the page to a new year, we reflect on the journey of 2024, a year that brought both challenges and triumphs.
As we turn the page to a new year, we reflect on the journey of 2024, a year that brought both challenges and triumphs. I hope that each of you had a wonderful and meaningful time with friends and family over the Christmas season. Looking back on the year, we remember the lessons learned and the achievements that made us stronger and more united as a community.
December was a month full of celebration, connection, and gratitude. From festive community gatherings to honoring those who make Helena a
special place, I couldn’t be more proud of the hard work and dedication I see in our city every day. We owe a huge thank you to the volunteers of the Beautification Board and the Christmas Parade Committee, whose teamwork ensured that our Christmas celebrations were a magical experience for all.
I’d also like to take a moment to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our local athletes. Congratulations to Austin Lewis for his participation in the Alabama North-South All-Star Game and to Torey Ward for playing in the Alabama-Mississippi
“Together, we have accomplished so much, and together, we will continue to build a brighter future for Helena.”
All-Star Game. These young men represent the best of Helena, and we couldn’t be prouder of them. Our high school basketball teams, both boys and girls, are off to an outstanding start this season—another exciting chapter for our community to cheer on.
Looking ahead to 2025, there’s much to be excited about. We’re on track to complete the new Dog Park and the City Hall, both projects that will serve as lasting symbols of our growth. The new Sports and Leisure Complex is progressing, and we continue to welcome new businesses to Helena, strengthening our local economy.
As we step into this new year, I’d like to share something personal. On August 14th, I suffered a stroke and spent several days in the hospital. During that time, I underwent countless tests, and to this day, I continue to manage my health with regular doctor visits. The experience was humbling and gave me time to reflect on the role I hold as your mayor. It made me realize that, while politics is not something I sought after, it has given me the opportunity to serve the people of Helena in meaningful ways.
to make decisions merely to please others. My focus has always been on making choices that will positively impact our community for generations to come. The difficult decisions, though sometimes met with criticism, have always been made with what’s best for Helena in mind. While the challenges have been tough, I’ve never wavered in my commitment to this city, but this will be my last term in office.
As your mayor for the next 11 months, I will continue to work tirelessly for Helena. I will advocate for the resources we need, make decisions that serve the greater good, and always call this community my home. I encourage healthy competition for this position in the upcoming election— someone who is truly dedicated to Helena, with a heart for solutions, not complaints.
Over the past four and a half years, I have grown, faced challenges, made tough decisions, and learned from both my successes and mistakes. In a city of nearly 25,000 people, I never intended
Together As One,
I am deeply grateful to the residents who have trusted me with this role. I will always cherish the support of our city employees, who have been with me every step of the way. Together, we have accomplished so much, and together, we will continue to build a brighter future for Helena.
I wish you all a prosperous and happy start to the new year. Thank you for allowing me the honor of serving you.
- Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena
Mayor Brian Puckett
In this issue
FEATURES 20
Soaring like an Eagle
Katelyn Holmes earns major accomplishment
25
Little Huskies
Helena fourth grade football teams compete for titles 35 Healthy in Helena
Helena PE teachers awarded grant for leadership
by Jeremy Raines Cover Design by Sydney Allen
HE LEN A
Michaela Bankston
Dave Domescik
Anna Grace Moore Tyler Raley
Andrew Simonson
Sydney Allen
Jamie Dawkins
Rowan Futrell
Connor
Jeremy Raines PHOTOGRAPHY
Kelsey Alexander
Noah Brakefield
Rachel Henderson
Rhett McCreight
Viridiana Romero
ADMINISTRATION
Alec Etheredge
Photo
Utilities and Services
Cable, Internet and Phone
uAT&T Uverse – 1-888-708-0934 att.com
uSpectrum – 1-855-707-7328 spectrum.com
uC-Spire, Fiber Internet – 1-855-277-4735 cspire.com
Gas
uSpire – 1-800-292-4008 spireenergy.com
Power
uAlabama Power Company – 1-800-245-2244 alabamapower.com
Trash Services
uRepublic Services – (205) 631-1313 republicservices.com
Water and Sewer
uHelena Utilities City Water Service (205) 663-1670
LOCAL SCHOOLS
uShelby County Board of Education – (205) 682-7000
shelbyed.k12.al.us/
uHelena Elementary School – (205) 682-5540 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes/index.htm
uHelena Intermediate School – (205) 682-5520
shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/his/index.htm
uHelena Middle School – (205) 682-5300 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hlms/index.htm
uHelena High School – (205) 682-3650 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs/index.html
uHillsboro School - (205) 864-7330 thehillsboroschool.org
We want to hear from you!
Do you have an issue that City Hall needs to know about? Please use the City Action Center at cityofhelena.org to get a resolution to your neighborhood issue.
City Government
Brian Puckett
bpuckett@cityofhelena.org
alobell@cityofhelena.org
cwillis@ cityofhelena.org
ljoseph@cityofhelena.orghwoodman@ cityofhelena.org mharris@ cityofhelena.org
Departments
City Hall (205) 663-2161
Fire Department (205) 663-5809
Sports Complex (205) 620-2877
Library (205) 664-8308
Police (205) 663-6499
Utilities (205) 663-1670
THE GUIDE
HELENA VARSITY BASKETBALL VS. PELHAM
JAN. 10
5:30 P.M.
Helena High School
The Helena High School boys and girls basketball teams will compete against rival Pelham on Jan. 10 at home in a big area battle between the two teams as they look to chase down an area championship this season.
16
HELENA PLANNING & ZONING COMMITTEE MEETING
6 P.M.
Helena City Hall
Looking to be in the know about everything happening in Helena, the Helena Planning & Zoning Committee will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 16 to go over several important items related to future growth and planning for the city.
11
Boots and Bows Date Night at Helena
Chick-fil-A
5 P.M.
Helena Chick-fil-A
The Helena Chick-fil-A will host a Boots and Bows Date Night on Jan. 11, inviting parents to a special date night at the restaurant with their son or daughter. It will include a 45-minute tableside service with dinner, crafts, pictures and the Chick-fil-A Cow.
AROUND TOWN
EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY | 11 A.M.
Storytime at the library
JAN. 1 | ALL DAY
New Year’s Day, city offices closed
JAN. 3 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity basketball at Chelsea, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
JAN. 4 | ALL DAY
Ice Breaker Track and Field event for HHS athletes
JAN. 7 | ALL DAY
Second semester begins for students
JAN. 7 | 5:45 P.M.
Friends of the Library Meeting at Jane B. Holmes Library
JAN. 7 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity basketball at Spain Par, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
JAN. 8 | 4 P.M.
Varsity bowling vs. Pelham at Oak Mountain Lanes
JAN. 10 | 5:30 P.M
Varsity basketball vs. Pelham, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
JAN. 10 | TBD
Varsity Wrestling Regional Duals at Pelham High School
JAN. 11 | 5 P.M.
Boots and Bows Date Night at Helena Chick-fil-A
JAN. 13 | 4 P.M. Utility Board Meeting
JAN. 13 | 6 P.M. Helena City Council Meeting
JAN. 14 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity basketball vs. Chelsea, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
JAN.
JAN 16 | 6 P.M.
Helena Planning & Zoning Committee Meeting
JAN. 17 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity basketball vs. Spain Park, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
JAN. 20 | ALL DAY
MLK Jr. Day, schools and city offices closed
JAN. 20 | ALL DAY
Indoor Track MLK Classic
JAN. 20 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity basketball vs. Hueytown, girls at 5:30, boys at 7
JAN. 21 | 5:30 P.M
Wrestling Tri-Match with Shelby County and Leeds
JAN. 23 | 5:30 P.M.
Wrestling tri-match with Chelsea and Wenonah (Senior Night)
JAN. 24 | 6 P.M.
Varsity basketball at Pelham, girls at 6, boys at 7:30
JAN. 25 | 7 P.M.
Sadie Hawkins Dance at HHS
JAN. 27 | 6 P.M.
Helena City Council Meeting
JAN. 27 | 7 P.M.
Varsity basketball vs. Northridge, boys only
JAN. 28 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity basketball vs. Chilton County, girls at 5:30, boys at 7 (Senior Night)
JAN. 30 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity basketball at Oak Mountain, girls at 6, boys at 7:30
JAN. 21 AND 23
Helena Wrestling Tri-Matches
5:30 P.M.
Helena High School
Helena’s varsity wrestling team will host tri-matches on Jan. 21 and 23 this month. The first on Jan. 21 will feature Shelby County and Leeds while the second includes Chelsea and Wenonah.
JAN. 25
Sadie Hawkins Dance at HHS
7 P.M.
Helena High School
With the end of January approaching and Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Helena High School will host its annual Sadie Hawkins Dance at the school. The event will take place on Jan. 25 at 7 p.m.
HELENA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Monday, Jan. 13 & 27
PRE-COUNCIL AT 5 P.M.,
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 6 P.M.
HELENA CITY HALL
Helena’s City Council meetings take place the second and fourth Mondays of the month. Helena City Council meetings are open to the public and offer the chance for you to get involved in the planning of your community.
In the News
HELENA FOOTBALL PLAYERS NAMED TO ALL-COUNTY TEAM
The Helena Huskies had six players named to this year’s All-County football team with three named to either the first or second team and three named as honorable mention players. Jeremy Spratling and Austin Lewis both earned First Team offensive spots, while Jonathan Roberto took home a Second Team defensive spot at the linebacker position. Nate Ferguson, Torrey Ward and DJ Williams each earned honorable mention nods.
The Helena Belles hosted their annual Powder Puff game near the end of 2024 to help raise money for Down Syndrome of Alabama. During the game, a special check was presented to Down Syndrome of Alabama for $2,000 to help make a difference for many ahead of the holiday season.
Ahead of the holidays, the Helena High School band performed a special Christmas concert at the school. The concert, symphonic, wind ensemble and jazz bands all performed during the festive event, which took place on Dec. 10.
Helena Elementary Teacher Megan Anglin was chosen as this year’s Shelby County Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year. Anglin was honored at the annual Teacher of the Year banquet held on Dec. 12 by the Shelby County Schools Education Foundation. She was selected among all of this year’s top elementary teachers from the Shelby County School system.
HELENA BELLES HOST ANNUAL POWDER PUFF GAME
HELENA HIGH SCHOOL BAND PERFORMS CHRISTMAS SHOW
MEGAN ANGLIN NAMED SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS ELEMENTARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR
HELENA CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAY SEASON
The city of Helena celebrated the holiday season in early December with two of its most popular events each year. The annual Christmas tree lighting and holiday market took place on Friday, Dec. 6, while the annual Christmas parade made its way through Old Town a morning later on Saturday, Dec. 7. It created a magical feel across the city.
HELENA KICKER AUSTIN LEWIS COMPETES IN NORTH SOUTH ALL-STAR GAME
Helena High School football player Austin Lewis competed in the North-South All-Star Game during the month of December and left his mark on the outcome. The Helena kicker nailed six extra points, while also making a 21-yard field goal in a 45-24 win for the North team.
VOLLEYBALL ALL-COUNTY TEAM FEATURES SEVERAL HELENA PLAYERS
Helena had six total players named to this year’s All-County Volleyball Team put together by the Shelby County Reporter. Addison Dockery earned a first-team nod for the Huskies after a special senior season, while Kylie Scoles grabbed a spot on the second team. The Huskies also got honorable mention spots from Monroe Bouler, Maddie Morris, Lauren Sivley and Riley Woods.
After Helena Elementary School was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence earlier this year, members of the school’s leadership team traveled to Orlando in early December to be recognized. They led different session and were named a Lighthouse School.
HELENA EDUCATORS ATTEND BLUE RIBBON EVENT IN ORLANDO
In the News
HELENA SECOND/THIRD GRADE FLAG FOOTBALL TEAM TAKES CHAMPIONSHIP
In the Second/Third Grade Division, the Helena flag football team took home the championship. The Eagles, who are coached by head coach Tim Ansley, were strong throughout the season to bring a division title back to the city.
KINDERGARTEN/FIRST GRADE FLAG FOOTBALL FINISHES 2ND
The Helena Kindergarten/First Grade flag football team finished second in its division this season. The Saints, coached by Josh Hebert, put together a special season on their path to a runner-up finish in the local NFL Flag league.
HUSKIES’ FOURTH GRADE BLUE TEAM WINS TITLE
The Helena Fourth Grade football team put together an impressive run during the 2024 football season. The year was capped off by a championship when they took down Oak Mountain in the title game. Going from winless the year before to championship, the team was led by head coach Justin Brown in an impressive turnaround season featuring the America Division title.
HELENA BLACK TEAM GRABS RUNNER-UP FINISH IN NATIONAL DIVISION
The Helena Fourth Grade Black Team competed in the National Division during the 2024 season and put together an impressive season. Led by head coach Tyler Rollin, the Huskies finished 9-2, ultimately finishing as runner-up in the National Division Championship game.
HELENA SCHOOLS SCORE WELL ON STATE REPORT CARD
Each of Helena’s schools, which are part of Shelby County Schools, scored well on the state report card. Helena Elementary and Intermediate schools earned a high score of 94, while Helena High School received a score of 85 and the middle school just behind with a score of 84.
CHRIS VANCLEAVE RESIGNS FROM HELENA CITY COUNCIL
Due to continued health concerns, Chris VanCleave made the decision at the end of January to resign from Helena City Council. After a heart ailment hospitalized him in February of 2024, doctors found a malignancy on his pancreas. While he has had a good prognosis, there have been complications throughout and doctors encouraged him to cut back on commitments. VanCleave has been instrumental in a lot of the city’s success and has been a resident for more than 15 years.
Library Update
GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY
AA reminder from the staff: The library is open and here to serve you. There are great books and a host of other resources here, all available for FREE. From digital options like Libby, Hoopla and the Alabama Virtual Library, to print books for the whole family, there is something here for everyone.
Library Director
Dan Dearing
State and local elected officials, friends, volunteers and many others have placed an emphasis on providing quality library services to the citizens of Helena. Each new year offers a great opportunity to improve your reading, and your life! Examples include books about getting ahead at work or school, ways to improve your overall health, getting organized, and making the most of new opportunities, just to name a few.
Applying for a library card is simple, and only takes about 10 minutes. If you have questions about the application process, stop by or call and ask one of the library staff members. Winter is a great time to visit, see what is new, and find something to read as the new year unfolds. New titles are added daily, and reserving books from home is simple and fun! To add to your experience, check out our new App, myLIBRO.
In addition to all of these great opportunities,
the library strives to offer programming that is fun, inspiring, and educational. From storytime EVERY Tuesday and Thursday at 11:00 AM to monthly events such as check out 10 books, get a prize, Lego Fun and a senior program, we offer something for everyone. Check out the web site at www.cityofhelena.org or better yet, visit the library for a calendar to hang on the fridge!
Special thanks to the Friends of the Library for their hard work this year. The Friends assisted with the library entry in the Helena Christmas Parade. The members provided candy for the event and volunteered to walk in the parade. They once again held a toy drive that benefitted the Helena Police Department’s Toys for Tots campaign.
The Friends of the Library are an important part of the overall mission of the library, and they generously give their time and energy. The Friends meet on the first Tuesday of the month at 5:45 p.m. at the library. Please call 205-664-8308 and ask for Dan for more info. Looking forward to seeing everyone soon in 2025!
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
January’s Top Picks
VARIATION
By Rebecca Yarros | Adult Fiction
A new contemporary romance about the summer a celebrated dancer returns home and unearths years of family secrets and deep regrets with someone she never forgot.
MOST REQUESTED COPYCAT DISHES: 100+ HOMEMADE
VERSIONS OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT RECIPIES
By Favorite Family Recipes | Adult
Nonfiction
From fast-food classics to gourmet restaurant delights, this book brings the restaurant experience directly to your home kitchen.
GETTING FROM COLLEGE TO CAREER
By Lindsey Pollak | Adult Nonfiction
The definitive guide to building the experience, skills and confidence you need to tackle today’s fast-moving job search, offering tips and strategies ranging from the simple to the expert.
THE BLETCHLEY RIDDLE
By Ruta Sepetys | Juvenile
This middle grade historical adventure follows two siblings at Bletchley Park as they try to unravel a mystery surrounding their mother’s disappearance.
OCEAN CREATURES: A SPOTTER’S GUIDE
By Sabrina Weiss | Juvenlie Nonfiction
Dive through the world’s oceans and spot more than 150 colorful, peculiar and marvelous ocean creatures—without ever leaving your own bedroom!
COLD
By Tim McCanna | Easy/Picture
This lyrical environmental picture book introduces readers to some of the most beautiful and fascinating cold climate creatures and habitats all over the world.
HHS Basketball Player
JOSEPH KING
What inspired you to start playing basketball?
My family inspired me to play basketball. Everywhere we went there was basketball and I fell in love.
How do you balance sports with schoolwork?
I balance sports and schoolwork by trying to finish all my work in class and during lunch then studying after practice for 30 minutes a day.
How have you stepped up this year as a senior leader on the team?
I stepped up as a senior leader in aspects of trying to keep everyone’s heads up when they mess up, bringing everyone into the game plan as a team and leading by example on and off the court.
What’s your favorite part about playing basketball for Helena?
My favorite part about playing for Helena I’d say is playing with my close friends that feel like family.
Has there ever been a coach or mentor who made a big impact on you? What did they teach you?
My dad as a coach has made the biggest impact on me. He taught me every skill I have, but not only that, he showed me how to think about the game and how to see the game.
What do you do in your free time outside of school and sports?
Outside of school and sports, I spend time hanging out with my friends and my girlfriend or at home with family.
As a senior, what legacy do you hope to leave behind at Helena High School?
As a senior, I hope to leave a legacy of being a great all-around player and student but also three-time area champions and 6A state champions.
Education
KATELYN HOLMES
Helena student and Eagle Scout
What does it mean to you to have completed your Eagle Scout rank?
I feel like I have grown from this experience. I have learned so much, especially how to be a good leader. I also can now dedicate more time to the Order of the Arrow and service work.
What was the project you worked on to be able to complete the rank of Eagle Scout?
I made three benches around trees in the McAdory High School courtyard to provide seating for the students and faculty.
What does it mean to be honored by the city for this accomplishment?
I feel extremely honored to have such praise, and I believe that I couldn’t have gotten it without my friends and family.
What first got you into scouting?
My brother joined a cub scout group so it motivated me to join so I could do what my brother was doing.
Growing up in Scouts, what has been the most fun part to you?
All the service that I have the opportunity to do, and being in the outdoors, is amazing.
Outside of Scouts, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I am a student at the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering in Huntsville and I love it. I am on the Robotics and Archery team there and I enjoy participating in those groups.
Who has served as your biggest role model throughout your life to get you to where you are now?
My dad and his many talents and skills have been my biggest inspiration
How will the work you put toward achieving your Eagle Scout rank help you in the future?
I believe that the survival and life skills I learned while earning my Eagle rank will help me to reach my life goals.
Meet Your Neighbor
The Ansley family
Tim Ansley has a unique perspective on the city of Helena, moving here with his family in 1988 at the age of 11 months old. He eventually attended Helena Elementary School, a place special to him as his mother Betty still serves as a second grade teacher there. Now, all these years later, he lives in his hometown with his wife Kendall and their four children Blake (12), Jackson (10), Baker (10) and Graham (8). Tim and Kendall met at Samford University in 2006 and now have a family with four kids in the Helena school system.
“We love Helena because of the small town feel with wonderful schools,” Tim said. “We have learned to embrace the traffic and
trains to keep our Mayberry the small, quaint town that it is.”
In 2019, Tim formed Alabama Eye Partners, which proudly employs many Helena residents and cares for patients from the city of Helena. Kendall is also a local teacher at The Day School at Cahaba Bend in Helena, preparing many of Helena’s children for grade school.
The family is also big into local sports with Tim forming Shelby Elite in 2021, which is a competitive baseball organization that many young athletes play on. He also formed Husky Hoops in 2022.
Helena Church Directory
ANGLICAN
Lamb of God Church
Head pastor: Caron Glenn Davis 5140 Hwy 17 (205) 919-7932 Lambofgodcec.org
BAPTIST
The Church at Old Town
Head Pastor: Josh Knierim 815 Highway 52 E (205) 663-7879 Thechurchatoldtown.org
Gospel Light Baptist Church
Lead Pastor: Gary Bohman 5781 Roy Drive (205) 685-0772 Glbcbham.com
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church
Head Pastor: Edwin Dinkins 5320 Helena Road (205) 624-3323 Mpbchelena.com
Riverside Baptist Church
Senior Pastor: Chris Wilson
Worship Pastor: Kyle Ziglar 1919 Highway 52 West (205) 426-1910 Rbchelena.org
Crossbridge Community Church
Lead Pastor: Cody Brister 1455 Starkey Street (205) 358-3500 Crossbridgehelena.com
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ at Helena 2499 Highway 58 (205) 620-4575 Helenachurch.com
DISCIPLES OF CHRIST:
Grace Christian Church
Lead Pastor: Rev. Brad Henderson 869 County Road 52 (205) 426-1233
Gracechristianchurch.org
METHODIST
Helena Methodist Church
Head Pastor: Rev. Rusty Tate 2035 Highway 58 (205) 663-0111 Helenamethodist.org
Church at Cahaba Bend
Lead Pastor: Rev. Patrick Friday 3721 Hwy 52 West (205) 621-8060 Cahababend.org
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Open Door Independent Church 120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963 Opendooral.com
The Cornerstone Church
Lead Pastor: Timothy Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332 Cornerstonechurchhelena.org
New Vision Christian Church
Senior Pastor: Van C. Houser 2383 Highway 95 (205) 919-6678 Nvcc4god.org
The Rock Church
Head Pastor: Bryan Van Gieson 501 2nd Avenue West (205) 358-7625
Rockofbirmingham.org
The Voice of Faith International Ministries
Head Pastor: Franklin Kirksey 1560 Cunningham Drive (205) 663-7396
PRESBYTERIAN
Harmony Church of Helena
Head Pastor: 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
City Hall Faces
Scott Verner
Athletics Supervisor for Helena Parks and Rec Department
When you think of youth sports in the city of Helena, Scott Verner’s name comes to mind as quick as anyone due to his service to the community.
The athletics supervisor for the city of Helena’s Parks and Rec Department, Verner is in charge of all athletics run by the city of Helena, meaning he handles the organization and work for youth sports in the city.
That includes a special fall season of football that included championship and runner-up finishes for several teams.
It is a position he does with joy and one he has been in for the past four years, while he has been with the city’s parks and rec department for a little more than 11 years.
“I am responsible for electing our volunteer coaches,
working with other parks to create game schedules and coordinating officials for our park,” he said. “I enjoy helping create fun and competitive youth leagues to compete against the surrounding communities.”
Nearby residents for 31 years, Verner and his wife both attended and graduated from Homewood High School before eventually getting married in 1991. They now have been married 33 years and have three sons, two of which are married, while they also have two granddaughters. Verner said he loves to help families have a competitive and fun time in Helena when it comes to youth sports, as he has dedicated his life to the matter for the majority of his career.
HUSKY TURNAROUND
Fourth grade football teams find success
BY STEPHEN DAWKINS
PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES
AA year ago, the outlook wasn’t looking very promising for Helena’s two third grade youth football teams. Helena Black had concluded their season with a record around the .500 mark, and Helena Blue had failed to win a single game.
But in November, at the culmination of a year of hard work by the now-fourth grade football players and the support of a large group of people committed to seeing the teams succeed, the teams completed dramatic turnarounds. Helena Black made it all the way to the championship game before falling, and Helena Blue won its championship game against the only team it lost to in the regular season.
Coaches Tyler Rollin and Justin Brown, respectively, said no small part of the teams’ success was their willingness to work together to improve.
“It was just, ‘Here’s what we have to do to be successful,’” Rollin said. “Starting off the year, it was tons of work. But the parents were bought in, and the kids were bought in. Everybody had the same focus: Every practice, come out here and get better.”
With about 36 players at the same grade level, the group had to be split into two teams for the third grade season. Helena Blue competes in the American Division, and Helena Black competes
in the National Division, which is intended for more experienced players and teams.
Instead of relying on one or two players, which can be common at this level of football, Helena Black had a bevy of playmakers, Rollin said. “We had multiple people that at any point could do something special. Most teams can key on one kid, but we wanted to spread our skill guys out so the defense would have to honor everything.”
One of the biggest offensive lines in the league opened up holes, and the skill position players were also good blockers when they didn’t have the football. Running back Grady Anderson led the team in scoring.
The defense, meanwhile, was consistently excellent, firing off the ball and showing a love for tackling. With leading tackler Jackson Ansley, Helena Black posted multiple shutouts
throughout the course of the season. “Our defense, every single game we knew they would give us a chance,” Rollin said.
And Helena Black boasted a kicker, Bryce Baird, who converted a large percentage of his extra point tries—a rarity in the league.
Helena Black was undefeated until it met up with a Vestavia Hills team that had not lost a game in three years. Vestavia won the regular
season matchup, and then—of course—the two teams met again in the division championship, with Vestavia again coming out on top.
The performance on the season was “light years” ahead of the previous year. “It’s just a mindset that they decided that they didn’t want to be mediocre. They wanted to be great,” Rollin said.
Brown, meanwhile, knew there should be
“It’s just a mindset that they decided that they didn’t want to be mediocre. They wanted to be great.”
- TYLER ROLLIN
improvement in Helena Blue’s second season because of the enhanced experience level and “football IQ.” “Having a year under your belt, a year to gel with your teammates, it makes a big difference,” Brown said. “We reiterated to our kids and parents that tackle football is a grind. You start out the first of August, and we counted 45 practices through the championship game.”
Like Helena Black, Helena Blue primarily utilized a spread offense with a shotgun snap. But Helena Blue employed more power runs by quarterback Liam Jones, who led the team in touchdowns. The team’s reception leader was Ethan Upshaw.
The Helena Blue defense led by Reid Brown, Lawson Brown and Ky Rodriguez also pitched several shutouts throughout the season— and came up big in the championship game against Oak Mountain. A
safety in the first half by John Brown was the only score of the game as Helena Blue won the championship, played at Larry Simmons Stadium in Alabaster.
Upshaw also played defense and recorded five interceptions on the season.
“We didn’t blow out anybody, but we fought and won,” Brown said of the team. “We had to
overcome a lot of adversity and get a winning mindset established. They bought in, came to practice every day and earned it. Our message was always, ‘Win, lose or draw, be a good teammate, keep putting in the work and good things will happen.’”
The coaches said the support from the community and other levels of football in the
city has been crucial. Middle school and high school coaches have been willing to discuss their schemes, Helena High School head coach Richie Busby has allowed the youth teams to use facilities, and some of the high school players have shown their support by attending games.
Throughout their turnarounds, Helena Black and Helena Blue have both lined up against each other on the practice field and had each other’s backs. “Any time you compete with another team, you get better. It drives the competition level up a little bit,” Brown said.
“We would practice against each other, but we would pull for each other. If we had an off day, we would go support them. We’re split into two teams right now, but one day they’re going to be together on the same team. That was a big part of the success was having everybody work together,” Rollin said.
HEALTHY IN HELENA
Helena Intermediate School PE Teachers receive special grant for their hard work
BY TYLER RALEY
PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES
HHelena Intermediate School has received a monumental spur to its physical education and resources with the rewarding of a grant due to its efforts to “Sack Obesity”.
The $25,000 Sack Obesity Grant that was awarded to the school’s physical education program by a partnership between Auburn University and UAB was presented as an incentive for leading students towards a healthy lifestyle throughout the school year.
This initiative has always been one that the coaches at Helena Intermediate have pushed to present to its students, and the staff is highly overjoyed that their efforts have been recognized.
Coach Eli Beall understands that this opportunity is something that will only provide a positive impact in the future of the school’s teachings, helping to do more that will benefit the health of his students.
“We’re super excited with the opportunity,” Beall said. “We didn’t think it would be the full amount that was described, but we were pumped up about having the opportunity to have that money to spend on kids in this community because we’re always trying to do everything we can to make sure Helena has things for kids to do to stay active to stay outside and be healthy.”
For a program within the county that is
continuing to grow by the year, the staff at Helena is constantly looking for more ways to uplift its P.E. program and improve it for the future.
Needless to say, when the opportunity presented itself to earn this grant, it was no question that this leap of faith was worth taking.
“This is our chance to do what we do to be able to find funds for attacking obesity or some type of incentive to get kids up and active,” Beall said. “We had talked about things that we would like to do here at this school, so we were chomping at the bit for something like this. We were already ready to put tons of stuff on here, but we were trying to see what the school really needed.”
One of the main goals that the coaches are dedicating some of the funding towards is for
the refinishing and updating of outside equipment and surfaces, understanding how big that plays into the curriculum that they teach.
It was not just the teaching aspect that went into that decision however, as all of the coaches know that their students can receive physical activity outside of P.E. class, such as during recess. They desired to provide an environment that kids can have fun in all throughout the day while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
This was the main outcome in mind when submitting an application, but the coaches wanted to make their submission appealing in a way that fit the current needs of the area they are in.
As a result, some more of the funding will go towards helping gain new pickleball courts and
basketball goals, parts of two sports that are continuing to be popular in both the state of Alabama and the Helena community, as well.
Coach Ashley Bryant saw the need as a perfect eye-opener to the grant’s selection committee, highlighting how much the kids have enjoyed those units in school.
“We wanted to think about what the kids most enjoy,” Bryant said. “Last year, we taught a pickleball unit with them that they all really loved and had heard of pickleball. I think that’s been a really popular game within Shelby County, like outdoor parks and recs. We thought, ‘Well, we can appeal to Auburn and UAB through pickleball courts and new basketball goals, and
just improving the area we already have outside.’”
Another big goal that the coaches have in mind when putting this grant to use is helping to make some of their equipment more accessible for those who may be handicapped or have special needs.
With the understanding that some of their students face more challenges in getting exercise in, coach Tyler Rollin desires to make it a priority that those kids can have every equal opportunity to get as much fun out of P.E. as everybody else.
“When you think of obesity, you think of your normal average student, but we also have some students that have some special needs and it’s a
little bit tougher to get those kids active,” Rollin said. “That’s where the money can also help, so we can buy some equipment and things that allow for those students that aren’t as fortunate or have some special accommodations that are needed, we can make those things happen for those kids.”
Beall added that the school has a number of students in wheelchairs this year, saying that the program hopes to make some of the equipment more wheelchair accessible while also making a huge push towards refinishing their track and other surfaces in order to make it smoother overall.
While the grant is a huge kickstart to all of the enhancements that the school wants to complete for their physical education program, the staff recognizes that it is not going to get the job fully done.
Bryant emphasized that she
“We were pumped up about having the opportunity to have that money to spend on kids in this community because we’re always trying to do everything we can to make sure Helena has things for kids to do to stay active to stay outside and be healthy.”
- ELI BEALL
hopes their efforts will present more opportunities for Helena to earn funding, knowing it would go a long way towards the program’s end goal.
“It is a lot of money, but even in regards to the project that we want to complete, it’s not going to fund every single thing that we want to do out there,” Bryant said. “We’re still looking for more
funding and opportunities to finish and complete this project for what we had written the grant for as well.”
Nevertheless, as these efforts continue on to help sack obesity, Helena Intermediate School knows that this award is monumental for the future, only looking to go up from this point on.
LIGHTING UP THE HOLIDAYS
Photos by Jeremy Raines
One of the most anticipated events every year in Helena, the city’s tree lighting event and holiday market took place on Friday, Dec. 6 with an impressive crowd gathering near the Caboose in Old Town to shop, enjoy good food and hot chocolate, listen to live music and watch the city’s Christmas tree light up for the holiday season.
An Old Town Christmas
The holiday magic was in full swing last month as the city of Helena’s annual Christmas Parade made its way through Old Town on Saturday, Dec. 7. Residents lined the street with anticipation to get a glimpse of Santa, while grabbing candy from all of the festive floats at this year’s parade.
Photos by Jeremy Raines
TIPPING OFF
Helena’s boys and girls basketball seasons are in full swing as they prepare to build off last year’s campaigns and reach new heights. Catch the Huskies in area play action throughout January in their quest to reach the Class 6A state playoffs.
Photos by Jeremy Raines and Dawn Harrison
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Band Concerts
A Symphony of Talent
I absolutely love listening to the High School Concert Bands perform. The concerts are free, open to the public, and always a treat for music lovers. You should definitely come and check it out! My son Thomas has been first chair tenor sax in the Wind Ensemble for all four years of high school. He also plays tenor sax in the Jazz A band, showcasing his versatility and passion for music. Beyond school, Thomas has earned first chair tenor sax in the All-State Red Band—the top honor band in the state—for three years. Last year, he made history as the first student from Helena to win the All-State Solo Festival, performing on alto sax. Don’t miss the chance to hear incredible musicians like Thomas at these concerts!
Adventures with Duke
Exploring Helena’s Dog-Friendly
Spots
I love taking my dog Duke for walks along the Hillsboro Trail and the trails in Riverwoods. Helena is a fantastic city for dog owners, with many places to explore. Duke also loves spending time with his friends at Helena Doghouse. He goes twice a week and comes home exhausted from a fun day of playing. Whether on the trails or at the dog park, Duke’s adventures make every day more enjoyable!
Husky Soccer
Chasing Goals and Greatness
My son Carson started playing soccer at age six on the baseball fields at the Sports Complex. Last year, as a freshman, he played on the High School JV team and even appeared in a few Varsity games. I’m excited to watch him suit up for the Huskies again this spring. With Coach Kelly Koch, Carson’s former middle school coach, now leading the Varsity squad, Husky Soccer is poised for an exciting season. The team is ready to reach new heights!
Celebrating Helena’s Arts
A Stage for Talent
I love attending all the school performances. There are so many talented kids. My son Thomas plays in the Show Choir band, adding to the vibrant performances with his musical skills. These shows are always a fun mix of incredible singers and musicians coming together to create something special. If you haven’t experienced the arts at Helena High, you’re missing out on some truly amazing talent!
