Helena The Magazine, June 2022 by Shelby County Newsmedia, Inc.

JUNE 2022

DEVOTION TO YOUR NEIGHBOR VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR JACKSON KNOX TELLS US HIS FAVORITE HELENA MEMORIES

A PASSION FOR TEACHING

FASHION FORWARD WHY LYDIA TAYLOR CHOSE HELENA TO OPEN TAYLORMADE BOUTIQUE

HELENA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL’S ANDREA BURK REFLECTS ON HER YEARS OF TEACHING

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City Leadership

A letter from the mayor From enjoying the changes in weather to shuttling kids around town, it’s that time of year where it seems like we are all going in a million different directions. We have now wrapped up May with some amazing activities happening, and summer is officially here. I know that it has been a long month for so many as we all raced to the finish line to end the school year, but now we can take a deep breath. I want to first say congratulations to all of the recent graduates. You each have many accomplishments in 4 CityOfHelena.org

the arts, on the field and court, but most importantly in the classroom. No matter what your next step may be, you will be starting a new chapter of your book. A new chapter that will continue shaping the person that you are and will be. Again, congratulations on your achievement and thank you for representing Helena in the way that you do.

As always, I am humbled and honored to serve every resident in Helena each day. It is one of our goals as a city to always be team are the best in the state. For the last three moving forward and making progress that benefits months, they have been gaining the knowledge of the residents of Helena. As a result, we (the Helena and what we want to focus on in regards to administration and City Council members) are design aesthetic around the city. The firms that have building plans on how to keep that momentum come on board to help DesignAlabama and us would typically cost hundreds of thousands, but going, and we have multiple projects due to DesignAlabama coordinating this in sight to assist with that. The city project, they are covering all of the cost has been in constant communication except $7,500. The in-person workshop with the development of the new City with the designers will be July 21 – 23. of Helena Comprehensive Plan (One This is another way for the community to Connected Community). I encourage you be directly involved with shaping Helena. to be involved with it as well. We need Not only will residents be able to pop in to hear your opinions and ideas on how and out throughout each day while the we can best move Helena forward in the designers are in town, but there will also years to come. So far, hundreds have be two open houses to provide feedback. come to the multiple Public Community Mayor Brian Finally, I encourage you to subscribe Open Houses, thousands of residents Puckett to the official city weekly email have completed the online survey, and updates at eepurl.com/gfVLJP. In we will finish it up with the request of public comments online of the draft report. The each weekly email includes an update from me on report should be finalized toward the end of August. what is happening in Helena and few great articles The year long study and plan development has been highlighting the amazing people and awesome things intensive and extensive to make our Helena the best happen in our town. As always, I am humbled and honored to serve it can be. Running in parallel with the One Connected every resident in Helena each day. I can assure you Community Comprehensive Plan is the design process that your Council members and city staff are, as well, that is being provided to us by DesignAlabama. This doing everything to best serve you. I look forward to group of four designers, branding firm (that works the next update of projects and happenings in Helena with many municipalities), engineers and leadership in the weekly emails.

Together As One,

-Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena

CityOfHelena.org 5

In this issue FEATURES

Meet Chandler Rose Get to know the Helena resident and University of Montevallo head baseball coach

A Passion for Teaching Helena Elementary’s Andrea Burk talks about how teaching is second nature to her

Southern Modern Chic Lydia Taylor brings Taylormade Boutique to Helena 6 CityOfHelena.org

Follow the new City of Helena

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THE MAGAZINE

CONTENT

Official Publication of the City of Helena

A Letter from the Mayor

City Hall Faces

The Guide

Helena Church Directory

In the News

Meet your neighbor

An update from the City Council

Out & About

Greetings from the Jane B. Holmes Public Library

HELENA

My Helena

EDITORIAL Alec Etheredge Meg Herndon Michelle Love Anna Grace Moore Emily Sparacino

DESIGN Connor Martin-Lively Kimberly Myers

PHOTOGRAPHY Keith McCoy Daniel Dennis Christina Dennis

MARKETING Rhett McCreight Jessica Caudill Tori Montjoy Michaela Hancock

ADMINISTRATION

ON THE COVER A Passion for Teaching

Publisher Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. 115 North Main Street Columbiana AL 35051 205-669-3131 Daniel Holmes

Andrea Burk reflects on her years of teaching at Helena Elementary School.

General Manager

Photo by Keith McCoy Cover Design by Connor Martin-Lively

Customer Service

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

Mary Jo Eskridge

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

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

City Government Brian Puckett Mayor bpuckett@cityofhelena.org

Alice Lobell

Leigh Hulsey

Christopher VanCleave

Place 3, Council President

Place 1

Place 2

auhulsey@gmail.com

cvancleave@ cityofhelena.org

Laura Joseph

Hewy Woodman

Amanda Traywick

Place 4

Place 5

ljoseph@cityofhelena.org

hwoodman@ cityofhelena.org

City Clerk and Treasurer

alobell@cityofhelena.org

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

atraywick@ cityofhelena.org

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

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

THE GUIDE

OLD TOWN LIVE

SATURDAY, JUNE 18 10 A.M. - 1 P.M. Helena Amphitheater Park Helena’s Old Town Live concert series returns for its next installment on Saturday, June 18. Come to Helena Amphitheater Park for an evening of good food, good drinks and good music. CityOfHelena.org 9

AROUND TOWN JUNE JUNE 4 | 9 A.M. Holy Hikes at Cahaba River Park JUNE 4 | 8 A.M. - NOON Helena Market Days JUNE 6 Youth soccer summer camp begins JUNE 8 | 2:30 P.M. Teen Kickoff with Mosaic Art crafts at the library JUNE 11 | 8 A.M. - NOON Helena Market Days SATURDAY, JUNE 4

Helena Market Days 8 A.M. - NOON Old Town Helena Helena Market Days return on Saturday, June 4 starting at 8 a.m. Helena Market Days are held every Saturday throughout June and July. Market Days serve as a venue for local farmers and artisanal vendors to sell goods ranging from fresh vegetables, handmade soaps, baked goods, coffees and teas and so much more. There are even cooking demonstrations from local chefs.

TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS

Storytime 11 A.M. The Jane B. Holmes Library Storytime at the Library is a fun event meant to encourage young people to pick up a book and discover the joys of reading. Children are treated to books of different themes and authors that will enhance their love of reading and provide them with an up-close look at what makes books so special.

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JUNE 13 | 2:30 P.M. The art of origami at the library (turtle) JUNE 13 | 4 P.M. Helena Utility Board meeting at City Hall JUNE 13 | 6 P.M. Helena City Council meeting at City Hall JUNE 16 | 10 A.M. Senior BINGO at the Helena Sports Complex JUNE 16 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library JUNE 18 Old Town Live Concert at Amphitheater Park JUNE 18 | 8 A.M. - NOON Helena Market Days JUNE 21 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library JUNE 25 | 8 A.M. – NOON Helena Market Days JUNE 27 | 2:30 P.M. The art of origami at the library (bird)

JUNE 27 | 6 P.M. Helena City Council meeting at City Hall JULY JULY 2 | 8 A.M. – NOON Helena Market Days JULY 2 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library JULY 3 | 5 - 9 P.M. Independence Day Celebrations in Old Town Helena JULY 7 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library JULY 9 | 8 A.M. – NOON Helena Market Days JULY 9 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library JULY 14 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library JULY 21 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library JULY 21 | 10 A.M. Senior BINGO at the Helena Sports Complex JULY 23 | 8 A.M. – NOON Helena Market Days JULY 23 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library 11 a.m. JULY 28 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library JULY 30 | 8 A.M. – NOON Helena Market Days JULY 30 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the library

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

Holy Hikes 9 A.M. Cahaba River Park Holy Hikes are open events that allow members of the community to experience and appreciate nature while also strengthening their connection to their faith. The hike will go along the trails of Cahaba River Park and will feature spiritual lessons, meditation and other faith-related aspects.

SUNDAY, JULY 3

Independence Day Celebration 5-9 P.M. Old Town Helena One of the most popular events each year in Helena, the city’s Independence Day Celebration event will take place on Sunday, July 3 from 5-9 p.m. in Old Town Helena. It is being led by the Helena Business Association and will include live music from 7-9 p.m. from Telluride hosted by the HOTBoard. The event will conclude with fireworks illuminating the sky over Old Town and Buck Creek at 9 p.m. all to the tune of music broadcasted on local radio. CityOfHelena.org 11

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In the News HELENA COMES TOGETHER FOR BASKET PLANTING DAY, EARTH DAY Helena’s Beautification Board held its annual Basket Planting Day as part of its mission to beautify the city of Helena. Also taking part in Earth Day activities was the Hillsboro School, which planted various herbs in the Helena Community Garden.

CITY OF HELENA HOLDS ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT AT JOE TUCKER PARK Helena families gathered at Joe Tucker Park with baskets in hand to take part in the annual Easter Egg Hunt. The Church at Old Town stuffed approximately 8,000 eggs filled with fun prizes for the event.

HELENA REMEMBERS REBECCA LUKER WITH REBECCA LUKER DAY Citizens of Helena honored the memory of actress, singer and Helena native Rebecca Luker with Rebecca Luker Day. The actress died from ALS in December 2020.

TIDAL WAVE EXPRESS CAR WASH COMING TO HELENA Tidal Wave Express announced its plans to open a carwash location in the city of Helena.

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In the News HELENA CITY COUNCIL AWARDS TAG TEAM GRANTS TO HELENA EDUCATORS The Helena City Council awarded thousands of dollars in Teachers Assistance Grants to Helena educators from the city’s various schools. Grants were awarded for classroom items such as lab equipment, new desks and new books.

HELENA TEEN COUNCIL MEMBERS MAKE FRIENDS AT SENIORS NIGHT Members of Helena’s Teen Council and the senior citizen community celebrated a night of friendship over a three course dinner and a lively game of bingo at Senior’s Night.

HELENA CELEBRATES CAREER OF HPD CAPTAIN JAMES ‘IVY’ PENHALE UPON HIS RETIREMENT Helena Police Department Capt. James Penhale celebrated his retirement with a special event located at City Hall. Penhale’s friends, family and colleagues were all present to congratulate him on his retirement and wish him well.

HELENA SOFTBALL TEAM MAKES IT BACK TO STATE The Helena softball team put together another special postseason run in 2022, sweeping through the area tournament and regionals to earn a third consecutive trip to the state tournament. To see how the Huskies finished at the state tournament, visit Shelbycountyreporter.com.

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In the News HELENA CELEBRATES DIVERSITY WITH INAUGURAL INTERNATIONAL UNITY FESTIVAL Helena’s Diversity and Inclusion Board held its first ever International Unity Festival at Helena Amphitheater Park on Saturday, April 23. The event featured music from a DJ, local food trucks and representation from the city’s different cultural representation groups.

HELENA MIDDLE SCHOOL BASEBALL TEAM WINS MAJOR CONFERENCE The Helena Middle School baseball team won the 2022 Southern Conference earlier in April under the coaching of Trent Posey. It capped off a successful season for the team, especially for player Davis Kelly, who was awarded with the Southern Conference MVP award.

HELENA BASEBALL ENDS SPECIAL SEASON The Helena Huskies put together a special 2022 baseball season that featured an area championship and another run to the second round of the playoffs. The Huskies fell in the second round to Hillcrest in two tight games by finals of 5-4 and 6-3, but the team finished 17-14 against an extremely difficult schedule. Head coach PJ Guy shared hugs with each player following the end, showing his appreciation for the entire team.

TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETES SHINE AT STATE Helena’s outdoor track and field team closed an impressive season at the 2022 AHSAA Outdoor State Track and Field Meet with seven top-10 finishes. Brooklynn Kirksey finished on the podium by placing third in the long jump and also finished fourth in the shot put and sixth the 100-meter dash. Lamaria Bennett, Sammy Ratley and the boys’ 4X800-meter relay team all had top-10 finishes as well. CityOfHelena.org 15

In the News HHS BASEBALL PLAYERS SHOW SUPPORT FOR YOUTH BASEBALL PLAYERS AT TOURNAMENT

Members of Helena High School’s baseball team showed their support for the younger players of the Shelby Elite team at their tournament in Chelsea on Saturday, May 7. The high schoolers cheered the players on and even helped them practice before the big game.

HELENA BREAKS GROUND ON FUTURE BUCK CREEK BED AND BREAKFAST SITE The city of Helena held a special ground breaking ceremony on Tuesday, May 10 at what will become the future site of the Buck Creek Boutique Bed and Breakfast.

HELENA CITY COUNCIL HONORS SENIORS OF HELENA’S TEEN COUNCIL The seniors of Helena’s Teen Council received special recognition at the Helena City Council meeting on Monday, May 9. The seniors received special certificates and a warm, emotional thank you from the Teen Council’s sponsor Alice Lobell.

HMS’S MATTHEW EPPS AWARDED C. JOHN TARTER RESEARCH AWARD Helena Middle School’s Principal Matthew Epps was recognized by the UAB and UA Educational Leadership Programs with the C. John Tarter Research Award. The award is given to highlight the achievements and hard work of educational leaders.

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In the News HPD SELLING AUTISM AWARENESS PATCHES Helena Police Department made special patches for Autism Awareness month and sold them to the public. All proceeds went to Kulture City, a local nonprofit dedicated to sensory awareness and inclusion.

HELENA GIRLS SOCCER TEAM WINS AREA CHAMPIONSHIP The Helena girls soccer team finished area play a perfect 6-0 this season to claim the area tournament title. It was part of another special season for the Huskies, who continue to be on the verge of a breakthrough season in the 6A classification. The Huskies beat Benjamin Russell 7-1 in the opening round of the playoffs, but fell 2-0 to Northridge in the second round to end the season with a record of 14-9-2.

BOYS SOCCER TEAM FINISHES IN QUARTERFINALS The Helena boys soccer team advanced to the quarterfinals of this year’s Class 6A soccer playoffs. It marks the second year in a row that the Huskies earned a spot in the third round with a spot in the Final Four on the line. They ultimately fell to rival and eventual state runner-up Pelham to come up one win shy of the semifinals. CityOfHelena.org 17

Sports

CHANDLER ROSE Head baseball coach at the University of Montevallo + Helena resident

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What do you love about coaching at Montevallo? There are so many things I love about Montevallo. The best part are the players, alumni, coaches and coworkers I get to be around every day. We have had such great support, and the people at Montevallo have been so supportive since day one. The current student-athletes and former players are what make Montevallo so special. They are why I coach and those are relationships I will cherish forever. What made you fall in love with baseball to the point you wanted to be a coach? I had been in baseball my entire life and my dad was a coach. When my playing career was over, I knew I wanted to stay involved in baseball somehow. My college coach my senior year brought the idea of coaching to me and told me he thought it was something I should try. He really encouraged me to seek out some opportunities, so I did. My former summer coach in high school was the head coach (Dave Tollett) at Florida Gulf Coast University at this point and offered me a graduate assistant position at FGCU, so I jumped on it to get my career started. Do you believe taking part in sports can change a student’s life? Without question! Being a college athlete is a huge commitment. Our athletes make a lot of sacrifices and give up a lot of free time. But the relationships and experiences they get can’t ever be replaced. Sports helps our guys build character, teaches discipline, teamwork and accountability. They also meet lifelong friends playing sports, guys that will be in their wedding, that they will work with one day, travel the country, etc. There are so many great reasons for playing sports or being involved in extracurricular activities. Is there a secret to coaching a team to victory? Yes, have great players! I’ve been blessed to coach so many great players and young men. The best teams I’ve had and most successful teams have been the most unselfish. They are also teams with an incredible culture and care factor for everything they do. You have to have talent to win, but you also have to have the right people with talent in the room. You can’t be great on the field and average off the field, in the classroom or in the community. I always tell our guys, “Culture wins, and you have to be great at everything you do.” You’ve had a very extensive career in coaching. What brought you to Shelby County and particularly coaching at Montevallo? I was coaching at The United States Air Force Academy and saw that Montevallo had a job opening. I didn’t know much about Montevallo, but the athletic director here at the time (Jim Herlihy) that hired me worked with me at FGCU while I was an assistant, so I had interest in the position and getting back to the Southeast. I didn’t realize 12 years ago how blessed and fortunate I was to get this job. Montevallo is such a special place with amazing people. I am beyond thankful for the opportunity and life the University of Montevallo has given me and my family! I love Montevallo and will always be so grateful for this program and every player that’s ever played here. CityOfHelena.org 19

Update from

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THE COUNCIL

Alice Lobell PLACE 3, COUNCIL PRESIDENT I have served on the Helena City Council for almost six years, and this past year, by far, has been the most interesting and challenging year yet. The Council has tackled numerous issues over the past few months and implemented changes that affect us all. When you live in a city like Helena, that is growing so rapidly, these changes seem to come “fast and furious.” The city is currently working with an outside consulting firm to create a comprehensive plan that will help us address our rapid growth and develop a positive course of action. There are two groups of citizens in Helena that are near and dear to my heart: the teens and the seniors. The Helena Teen Council is a city-sponsored group of Helena teens, grades 10 thru 12, that serve the city as ambassadors and volunteers. I have the honor of being their city council liaison. Applications for being a member of Helena Teen Council are taken each spring. These applications are available on the city website or can be picked up at Helena City Hall. Recently, through a grant from the Alabama Tourism Department (with the help of Representative Kenneth Paschal), the Teen Council hosted a fun evening for a group of Helena senior citizens. The teens served the seniors a delicious meal, catered by Refined To Go, a local caterer; then everyone played Bingo! I’m not sure which group had the most fun–the teens or the seniors. That brings me to the senior citizens of Helena. Over the past year, we have been trying to build a Senior Citizens Program. This program falls under the umbrella of the Helena Parks and Recreation Department, and we are asking ALL senior citizens to register with them. Registration is free and easy. Forms are available on the city’s website or may be picked up at City Hall or at the Parks and Recreation Department at the Helena Sports Complex. Recent senior citizen activities include the Teens-Seniors dinner, a free concert presented by the Alabama Symphony, Bingo, Mah Jongg, exercise class, arts and crafts activities and Friday night card games. I look forward to seeing this group grow over the next year and to offering more programs and opportunities for them. There are so many wonderful things happening in Helena, and I encourage everyone to get involved. City Council meets at Helena City Hall on the second and fourth Mondays of the month and meetings are open to the public. Pre-council meeting starts at 5 p.m. and the meeting begins at 6 p.m. The council agenda, as well as minutes from previous meetings, are posted on the city’s website: CityofHelena.org I look forward to seeing you there! CityOfHelena.org 21

Library Update

GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY

On June 1, the Jane B. Holmes Library Summer Reading Program officially begins! The program is FREE, and all you need to do is stop by the library, sign up and find some books to read for the summer. The program features prizes and incentives, and is for ages 0-1,000. The library has tons of great programs, including the McWane Science Center, a Wild West Show and Musician Jim Aycock. In addition, we have our local heroes from the Helena Police and Fire Library Director departments providing Dan Dearing programs on safety and how they serve the community. The library also has all sorts of craft programs, board game days, storytimes and more. For teens and young adults out there, we have you covered with a mosaic craft for a summer kick-off event on Wednesday, June 8 at 2:30 p.m., origami throughout the summer and Book Bingo to wrap things up on Wednesday, July 13 at 2:30 p.m. As for grown-up readers, the library is looking out for you with a fun program that features weekly prize drawings and a closeout celebration on July

Please visit the library soon,

Jane B. Holmes Public Library Summer Reading Program 2022 21 at 6:00 p.m. Don’t miss it! Please check the library website, Instagram, Facebook page, or stop by the library to pick up a calendar that includes all of these awesome events. Make sure to get a library card or have your card updated so that you will be ready to READ!

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

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

-Daniel Dearing, library director

22 CityOfHelena.org

June’s Top Picks HOW TO GROW YOUR OWN FOOD By Angela S. Judd | Adult Non-Fiction Gardening season is here, and this beginner’s guide to container gardening offers a simple strategy with great illustrations.

THE SUMMER GETAWAY By Susan Mallery | Adult Fiction This book is a perfect escape for readers wanting to get away! One woman takes the vacation of a lifetime in this poignant and heartwarming story about the threads that hold a family together.

THE ICE CREAM MACHINE By Adam Rubin | Juvenile Fiction In this New York Times Bestseller, you will meet a boy and his robot nanny traveling the globe in search of the world’s tastiest treat. You will be transported through six distinct worlds in this book comprised of six different stories.

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BAKE, MAKE, AND LEARN TO COOK: FUN AND HEALTHY RECIPES FOR YOUNG COOKS By David Atherton and Rachel Stubb | Juvenile Non-Fiction A charming and mouthwatering cookbook for aspiring little chefs and culinary novices alike.

THE LAST CUENTISTA By Donna Barba Higuera | Young Adult A brilliant journey through the stars, to the very heart of what makes us human. A strong, heroic character, fighting incredible odds to survive and protect others.

WATERCRESS By Andrea Wang | Easy/Picture Book Caldecott Medal Winner. A moving autobiographical story of a child of immigrants discovering and connecting with her heritage. CityOfHelena.org 23

City Hall Faces

Meet Tracy Arnold

Assistant Director and Cataloguer at Jane B. Holmes Library Frequent flyers of Helena’s Jane B. Holmes Public Library are more than familiar with the smiling face of Tracy Arnold. Arnold has been the assistant director and cataloguer for the library for more than 25 years. As a cataloguer, she creates and maintains item records for the library to make sure everything is running smoothly. Though she’s not from Helena (she is from Columbiana), Arnold said she has gotten to know so many people through her work at the library that she feels like she lives there. In fact, meeting new people is her favorite part about working with the library. Having worked in Helena for so long, Arnold has had the opportunity to watch the town grow but also maintain a small-town feel. In her spare time, she loves walking around the lake and taking pictures of wildlife at Joe Tucker Park next to the library. She also loves visiting the local shops and restaurants in Old Town and, of course, helps Dan Dearing prepare for events at the library. Her long career at the library has instilled a strong desire to remind people of the importance of their local libraries and how it can make a difference in people’s lives.

Helene United Methodist Church

Grace Christian Church

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cornerstone Church Life Christian Fellowship Lead Pastor: Rev. Tim Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332 Cornerstonechurchhelena.org

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

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

The Voice of Faith International Ministries Head Pastor: Franklin Kirksey 1560 Cunningham Drive (205) 663-7396 PENTECOSTAL Helena Pentecostal Worship Center Head Pastor: Rev. Joel Wayne Pate 2nd Ave. & Branch St. (205) 663-1697 PRESBYTERIAN Harmony Church of Helena Head Pastor: Mike Ensminger 3396 Helena Road (205) 663-2174 Helenacpchurch.com Christ Community Church Head Pastor: Phil Chambers 2222 Highway 52 (205) 881-4222 Cccbham.org

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Education

MELISSA COPELAND Science teacher at Helena High School

What do you love about teaching science? I love the discovery. Science is fun to do. I love to see kids light up when they understand a concept. What is your favorite part about teaching high schoolers? I love the type of relationship you can have with them. For some of them, you become more than just a teacher, you become a friend or mentor. I love watching them grow and mature from ninth grad to senior year. The changes they go through educationally, emotionally and physically is fun to watch. It’s even better when I am able to stay in touch with them through college and/or life choices. What would you say is the most rewarding aspect of teaching? The relationships I gain from my students. They teach me more than I could ever teach them in a classroom. What type of teaching methods do you think high schoolers respond best to? Honest and real. They like to be able to see the real-world relevance in what they are doing. My science kids like to do science, not just sit and receive information. High school can be a tough time for teenagers. How do you communicate to your students that they have you as part of their in-school support system should they be struggling? I tell my students all the time; do not sit and suffer in silence. Chances are others have the same question(s). My room is a place we can all fail forward and learn together. High school is a journey and we are in it together. It is my job to help them reach their goals. My door (or email) is always open. I am here to help.

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Meet Your Neighbor

Melissa and Cordell Spears Melissa and Cordell Spears love their lives in Helena. They made the city their home in 2014 with their children, and have thoroughly enjoyed every second soaking up Helena life. Both Melissa and Cordell have spent several years working in law enforcement with the government. In the past, they have assisted the Helena Police Department Explorers Program with their Hostage Negotiation training. Both their sons are at track at Helena High School, and Melissa and Cordell frequently help out with track events throughout the year. 28 CityOfHelena.org

Cordell likes to golf so he goes to McDivot’s Golf Range on a regular basis. In their spare time, they love walking through Old Town and checking out all of the events Helena has to offer. They love pizza at Marco’s and Melissa loves perusing the local boutiques. “I’ve lived in all sorts of places, and Helena just feels like the perfect place, really,” Melissa said. “It has a lot of character,” Cordell said. “It’s small town but it’s still full of these great places. There’s always something to do.”

A PASSION FOR TEACHING Helena Elementary’s Andrea Burk talks about how teaching is second nature to her BY MICHELLE LOVE PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA DENNIS

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Andrea Burk has lived in Helena her whole life, and in that time, she’s seen a lot of growth. She laughs that when she was growing up, there was nothing in the town. “From the Baptist Church out to where the Publix is, there used to be a little gas station out there and we would walk from the Baptist church to the gas station and get drinks and snacks,” Andrea recalled with a laugh. “It was not very big at all, not nearly what it is now.” The city’s evolution is not the only growth she’s witnessed, of course. In her 30-plus year teaching career, Andrea has watched countless students go from being kindergartners at Helena Elementary, to graduating at Helena High School. “I tried to think one time how many kids I’ve actually taught and about their families because as

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you teach these kids you form a relationship, a bond with them and their families,” she said. “It’s really monumental. It’s overwhelming when I really try to think about it.” Andrea said she felt the call to teach at a very young age, which is not surprising considering it’s in her blood. Her grandmother, mother and two of her sisters were all teachers. Her daughter also grew up to teach at Clay Elementary. After graduating at Auburn University with a degree in early childhood education, she pursued her masters at UAB in the same subject. After graduation, Andrea went to teach in Columbiana. It was after having her child a few years later that she decided to move back to Helena so she could be closer to home. She began teaching at Helena Elementary in 1989, and the rest is

history. “Teaching is second nature to me, it’s what I do,” Andrea said. “I just knew I wanted to teach kids. My certification was kindergarten through third grade, and I knew I didn’t want to teach the older kids. I felt like if I specialized in early childhood education, I would become a real expert on how children at

that age work and how they learn.” Watching her kindergartners grow and succeed is one of the perks of working in a small town like Helena, she said. She frequently hears from former students and their parents who send her letters and messages thanking her for her patience and dedication to teaching.

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“It’s so rewarding to me,” she said. “And something funny is that kids don’t always look the same as they grow, so I’ll be somewhere and a student will come up to me and go, ‘Hey, Miss Burk!’, and I’m trying to figure out who they are because they’ve grown so much since I taught them; but if they tell me their name, I remember them, and I’m always so happy to see them.” Having such a long career in teaching also means having to adapt and evolve with the changes through the years, not just in teaching requirements but in what the students are experiencing. Technology, for example, is something Andrea said she relies on her coworkers (and sometimes the students) to to help her with. “I consider a good teacher being a lifelong learner, because if you think you know it all, you learn quickly you just don’t,” she said. “If I didn’t learn the new things, I wouldn’t be giving the kids what they needed. “The needs of kids have evolved so much. We were just talking about technology, but like all of the things they experience at such a young age 32 CityOfHelena.org

before they even come to school are totally different from the experiences they had 20 or 30 years ago. The requirements with the state of Alabama with our standards have changed, but the kindergarten I am teaching now compared to the kindergarten I was teaching 20 years ago are not the same.” She said education should be more of a journey than a race, and all children in her class will take part in activities that are developmentally appropriate for them while also adhering to the state standards. At the end of the day, she said she tries to think about what would be best for her own children and grandchildren. Through the years and through the changes, Andrea said she wouldn’t want to teach for any other school system. She loves how passionate and loyal the community is to the schools and their students. At Helena Elementary, there are more than 900 students in kindergarten through third grade, and Andrea said the community cares about every single one of them. “I think Helena does a very good job of including the community as a partner with its schools,” she

I consider a good teacher being a lifelong learner, because if you think you know it all, you learn quickly you just don’t. - Andrea Burk said. “We do a very good job working with people with special needs in our everyday programs, and I believe we do a wonderful job providing excellence in education in all areas.” When asked if there was a moment in her teaching career that stood out to her the most, Andrea said there’s one for every year. “I can’t pinpoint one particular moment,” she said. “But every year, you know, they’re making progress throughout the year slowly but surely, then all of a sudden they’re readers and writers and I’m going, ‘When did this happen?’ I really do get emotional about it. When you have a child who couldn’t write their name in August that by March can write sentences and can read stories, you think, ‘I didn’t do that, but I helped set them up for that.’” With the amount of pressure on children to succeed academically, Andrea always tries to remind people that kids are their own individuals and just because a child may not be a strong reader today, doesn’t mean they won’t learn to love reading down the line. “You shouldn’t give up on kids. Everybody can learn, but not everybody learns at the same pace. If we keep giving them what they need, they’re eventually going to get there and blow us out of the water,” she said. Like the thousands of educators across the globe, Andrea was thrown into unknown territory when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. “The first year, in 2020, nobody was prepared for it, I don’t know how we could be,” she said. “But we did the best we could CityOfHelena.org 33

and we provided activities for the kids to do and the kids were still learning, but we just weren’t prepared, but that wasn’t anybody’s fault.” Last year, when students were given the choice to come back to school or remain remote, Andrea said it was a very difficult year, but she and her colleagues did their best to make it as safe and stress-free of a learning environment as they could for the children. Andrea said she hopes next year is the year things return to as “normal” of a routine as possible. “I think kids need to be in school face-to-face with adults and children because a lot of the kids who did virtual, just didn’t get that same experience 34 CityOfHelena.org

and it’s just hard to provide that,” she said. “Younger kids need those concrete things to touch and feel and see in person in order to learn about it. Everyone learns in different ways, but most 5-year-olds need that in-person learning experience.” With the high number of teachers that chose to retire or quit in the past two years, Andrea said she credits true educators who want to stay in it for the kids and persevere through the tough times. “The ABC’s are still the ABC’s, no matter what program we’re having to teach it through, these kids have to learn,” she said. “Those things haven’t changed and kids haven’t changed. We need to

remember it’s about the children.” As another school year comes to a close, Andrea is preparing herself to say so long to her class of 2021-2022 and to welcome the students of 20222023. On her chalkboard, it reads, “Welcome Class of 2033,” and though that may seem like a it is in the distant future, Andrea said it goes by faster than you think. No matter how many years of teaching are in her future, Andrea wants to assure the Helena community she will always be dedicated

to supporting education and the students of Helena. “I don’t teach because I have to, I do it because I want to,” she said. “I’m truly passionate about helping children learn, whether that be my grandchildren or other children. I told my husband this: being a teacher is so much a part of who I am, and I feel like if I retire I will have to reinvent myself. The thing I want people to know about me is that teaching is not my job, it’s my passion.”

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southern modern

Chic Lydia Taylor brings Taylormade Clothing Boutique to Helena MICHELLE LOVE | PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA DENNIS Lydia Taylor will tell you that ever since she was a teenager, she has wanted to work in fashion. “I’ve just always wanted to do this,” she said. “I’ve always loved clothes and knew I wanted to do something related to fashion. I cannot draw to save my life so I knew fashion design was out of the question.” 36 CityOfHelena.org

Lydia’s love of fashion is what led her to launch her online boutique business, Taylormade Clothing, back in August 2020, and what fed her drive to open the brick and mortar location in Helena. Taylormade’s doors officially opened to the public on Saturday, April 9 with a special ribbon cutting sponsored by the Helena Business Association, but

the buzz surrounding the boutique’s arrival was more than in positive anticipation. Taylormade started in August 2020 as an online store and a mobile app. In 2021, she started doing in-person pop-ups where she would showcase her merchandise. “I loved doing that because I loved interacting with the people,” she said. “That’s what led me to this. I was selling really well in person, and online was doing well, too, but it just takes a lot of time to do online to get it where I want it to be.” Lydia said she loves the one-on-one aspect of working with people in person, as being able to let them truly experience and appreciate the clothing is something you just can’t get from online shopping. With that in mind, she started thinking about the possibilities of opening an actual storefront.

“I thought I would do really well opening a brick and mortar,” she said. Before the storefront location of Taylormade came into existence, Lydia grew up in Hueytown. She went to Southern Union State Community College in Wadley where she played softball and got her business associates degree. Though she isn’t originally from Helena, she has family here, and said moving to Helena is a definite possibility. “We would love to end up on this side of town eventually,” she said. “We would love to raise kids here.” When she was looking for a possible location for Taylormade, Helena seemed like the perfect fit due to the lack of competition and the community’s drive to support small, locally-owned businesses. CityOfHelena.org 37

“When I realized that, that was what made me go, ‘This is the best place,’” she said. Once the decision was made, Lydia dove into preparing for the opening. The focus and prep work that goes into stocking a boutique store takes meticulous planning. All of the items offered on Taylormade come from wholesale vendors, and sometimes items take close to two weeks to arrive. Thankfully, the internet is incredibly helpful. She gets merchandise mainly from FashionGo, which offers a catalogue of the thousands of vendors boutique owners can choose from. Lydia will peruse several different vendors looking at various styles, fabrics and sizes. She describes it as being similar to online shopping for friends as you have to keep in mind what your shoppers may or may not find appealing. “When I’m looking at merchandise, I always try to think of my customers and what they would like and what they want to see,” Lydia said. “It’s about thinking about what would sell the best, and I love 38 CityOfHelena.org

having all of those vendors at my fingertips.” Lydia describes her style as “southern modern,” a reflection of classic southern styles with more modern twists. Her store has a variety of sizes and the racks are full of everything from blouses, dresses and even comfortable T-shirts. Shoppers perusing through the shop are certain to find something they’re looking for, whether it’s loose fitting, frilly or all about comfort. This is something that was Lydia’s goal from the beginning. “I want to have things your everyday mom would love when she comes in here, but I also want to make sure the high schooler that pops in after school has things that she would love to wear, too,” she said. “It’s kind of a really good mix of inventory as far as having several things people of different ages will love. I want to have the dressy stuff like dresses and cute tops, but I also want to have stuff you can wear to work that you can dress up and dress down.” The boutique space is designed to reflect Lydia’s

southern modern tastes and to also give her patrons an insight into who she is as a person. There’s lots of natural light that reflects her bright and sunny personality (she makes a point to greet everyone who walks through the door with a smile and a friendly “Hello”). The walls are a blushing pink with a drawing of her pet golden retriever hanging by the door. She said she’s very into the BOHO style right now and wanted to emulate that style throughout the shop as well. Lydia said the main aspect of her shop that she has always tried to convey is that it is a safe space where people can shop and feel good about themselves. “I’ve always struggled with self confidence,” Lydia explained. “It’s just always something I’ve fought with, and I don’t want others to feel that way. I just really want that to be a thing my business is about: I want every woman who walks in here to leave with something they feel their best in.” With every sale, Lydia gets very excited to help people find something that makes them feel good in, and even if you don’t buy anything, she hopes you stop by and say, “Hello.” Taylormade is located at 100 Brook Drive Suite C in Helena. Hours of operation are Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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OUT & ABOUT

EARTH DAY IN HELENA

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE LOVE

Citizens of Helena took advantage of the bright sunshine on Saturday, April 23 to plant flowers and plants throughout the town. Helena’s Beautification Board planted baskets that hang at City Hall and throughout Old Town, while Hillsboro School planted down the street at the community garden. 1.

Peggy Holly, Luther Jarmon, Christie Hodge, Chris VanCleave, John Hodge, Sandra Rothe and Kim Edwards

Kim Edwards and Stephane Dortch

Shelley Zepp and Rebekah Henderson

John and Christie Hodge

Matt Griffin, Kurt Edwards, Connie Edwards and Richard Griffin

Christie and Matthew Joseph

Katie and Levi Wallace

Sandra Rothe, Chris VanCleave and John Hodge

Brittany and Lawson Stoltz

10. Peggy Holly and Luther Jarmon 11. Meghan Edwards and Dorothy Ewing

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OUT & ABOUT

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OUT & ABOUT

HELENA CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION FESTIVAL

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE LOVE

Helena’s Diversity and Inclusion Board held its inaugural Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Festival on Saturday, April 23 at Helena’s Amphitheater Park. The festival featured local food trucks, a DJ, a live food presentation by Big Daddy BBQ and more. 1.

Emily Holloway and Hannah Hunter

Kirsen Gardner, Riley Hollabaugh, Miah Rosener and Noel Franklin

Laura Joseph, Kim Edwards, Anna Kate Joseph and Ian Edwards

Tina and Ronald Horton

Danielle Portera Lang, Natalie Portera, Danny Portera, Dominique Portera, Jaqueline Mateo, Jaqueline Meraz, Senan Alcantara and Vera Meraz

Alice Lobell and Dominga Gardner

Kirsen Gardner at the face painting station

Stephanie and Jeremiah Perryman

Brandi and Dennis Brown with Rileigh Brantley

10. Natasha Fletcher and Yolanda Wilson with food from Big Daddy BBQ 11. Stacee Brown, Maggie Bell and Brad Radice 12. Jennifer, Brandon and Michael Jackson 13. Hewy Woodman 42 CityOfHelena.org

OUT & ABOUT

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OUT & ABOUT

HELENA HIGH SCHOOL 2022 PROM

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE LOVE

Students of Helena High School filed into the Park Crest Even Facility in Hoover dressed in their best formal attire ready to celebrate the 2022 prom. 1.

Lucas Griffis, Olivia Martin, AJ Horstead and Judy Higgins

Ethan Acosta

Santiago Espinosa-Hoyos and Kamila Jusino

Nico Crozier and Bree Turner

Katie Bekirby and Ally Scott

Anna Beth Goodman and Carson Wood

Brayden George, Brody Caver, Thomas Williams, Andrew Parton and Johnathon Ford

Ethan Thornton and Andrea Guerrero

Kaitlin Rogers and Caleb Pinchon

10. Anna Nicholas and Josh Pearman 11. Erin Moeller, Maura Simpson, Clayton Mayfield and Noah Love 12. Adison Cook and Hope Miller 13. Greer Johnson and Sam Dameron 14. Walter Womack and DJ Wilson 15. Grace Huff, Hannah Henson and Hannah Pierce 16. Caroline Coats, Ava Nicholson, Hampton Wade and Owen Dickerson 17. Mallory Barton and Trevor Moore 18. Marisa McGraw and Jordan Owen 44 CityOfHelena.org

OUT & ABOUT

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OUT & ABOUT

HELENA OLD TOWN LIVE

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE LOVE

The city of Helena welcomed back the annual summer concert series Old Town Live on Saturday, April 9 at Helena Amphitheater Park. The first concert of the summer series featured headliner Drivin n Cryin. 1.

Jeannine Cain, Kara Underwood, Ale Morales, Mary Ford, Tanja Rodriguez and Angela Drake

Robert Dawson and Brad Baker

Ella, Dave and Amanda Rober with Rebecca Newman

Hannah Morrison and Angie Dodson

Taylor and BJ Ryan, Elizabeth and John Alford, and John and Emily Barnes

Allie Tucker and Jessie Pino

Lee Shook and Cliff May

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CORRECTION SARAH GUZMAN

What will you miss most about high school? I will miss seeing my friends every day and the memories that were created through my high school experience with them.

In the June issue of Helena -The Magazine, we ran an incorrect photo with Sarah Guzman in a feature honoring Hele-

What is your best memory in your high school career? It’s hard to pick one memory, but the best times I had at school were when I had lunch with my friends and laughed a lot.

na's top graduates from the class of 2022. We want to personally apologize for the incorrect photo and highlight her in this issue correctly. As always, we welcome your feedback for any ways to make our magazine the best representation of Helena. Email news@ helenathemagazine.com with any tips.

What are your plans after graduation? I plan to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham where I will be majoring in Digital Forensics.

How do you feel Helena High School has prepped you for the future? Helena High School has allowed me to improve my work ethic, further my social skills and be more confident outside of my comfort zone. What has been your favorite thing about being a senior this year? I was able to relax more knowing that my hard work for the past three years would finally pay off.

When it comes to your to-do list, put your future first. To find out how to get your financial goals on track, contact us for a complimentary review.

Adam Windsor, CFP®, AAMS®, CRPC® FAP-1966F-A

Financial Advisor

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

100 Brook Dr Suite E Helena, AL 35080 205-664-2201

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Marketplace Helena the Magazine • 205.669.3131

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MY HELENA JACKSON KNOX 2021 Helena Volunteer of the Year

Santa Claus is comin’ to town

Helena Christmas Parade Christmas Eve after Santa comes by on the fire truck. It was showtime at the Knox’s. The grandchildren would entertain the family with songs, poems or a dance routine from class.

The perfect bite

Zou’s Kitchen Mongolian Beef Zou’s Kitchen Mongolian Beef is a winner in my book. And Bits & Pieces at the former Coal Yard

Good times at the creek Buck Creek Festival Buck Creek annual event has been one of the best. One of the best and hilarious was a very windy day which was keeping the ducks going up stream instead of going over the dam. We had to herd the ducks over the dam against the wind.

No place like home...

Why I love Helena Sandra and I had just moved in (a few weeks) when Mayor Sonny Penhale came by to welcome us to Helena. Having the mayor welcome your family to town said a lot about the man and Helena. Our first impression of Helena has been well founded.

Camaraderie

Rio’s Boys Club gathering at Rios on Fridays. There, we discussed everything from football to events at work, or the dreaded politics. At times, a napkin would be waved by anyone and the topic would be changed. We left more informed even if opinions didn’t change much.

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CityOfHelena.org

HELENA

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