Helena - The Magazine March

REPEAT PERFORMANCE

LOWERY SHARES DETAILS OF SUCCESS AMID 2023 SEASON

WRITING THROUGH LIFE

LOCAL AUTHOR GETS INSPIRATION FROM HELENA

A VISION TO LEAD

City Leadership

A lett er from the Mayor

Park upgrades, charging stations and a new trash truck

From starting to see the changes in weather to shuttling kids around, it’s that time of year where it seems like we are all going in a million directions.

Spring activities are in full swing and there are many to take advantage of.

The biggest news is the new nine-hole disc golf

course that is now officially open. It has been such a hit with our residents but also people from the surrounding area coming to play.

If you have never played, but want to try something new, the course is just for you. All that we have left to finish up to complete the Joe Tucker

Park upgrades is adding two small parking lots and widening the road to better accommodate multiple cars at a time.

More and more Helena residents are buying electric vehicles, and as a city, we want to be prepared now for what is to come down the road in future years. I was able to secure a grant that funded this charge, and I will continue to apply for more grants in the future.

Not only do we have our first public charging station in our city, but the City Council recently passed a new ordinance that puts guidelines in place for future Electric Vehicle Charging Station Infrastructure in the city.

Helena is the first municipality to implement guidelines and plans for infrastructure, which just further shows the leadership always wanting to be two steps ahead.

In February, the Council gave me the approval to purchase a new trash truck.

No, the city is not getting into the daily household trash business. This truck is a small trash truck that will allow our Public Works and Parks & Recreation teams to be able to effectively get to where the public cans are located on the trails, parks and in

Together As One,

Old Town.

It will also be replacing a very old large trash truck that sits at the city shop and is only moved to go to the dump once a week. That big truck will be cleaned up and sent to auction to help pay for the new truck.

Congratulations are in order for all of the fall sports athletes in basketball, wrestling and track and field. All of the athletes and teams had very successful seasons highlighted by Josh Williams reaching the 1,000 point mark this season and the men’s basketball team finishing up the regular season by beating the team down the road to bring home the Class 6A, Area 6 Championship.

Good luck to everyone that is competing and representing our city in spring sports. You all represent your schools and our city in true talent and sportsmanship.

Finally, to wrap this up to kick off March, I want to thank all of the various volunteers for city events. Months of planning event execution could not be successful without all that give their time and talents to the city. Enjoy some pie on Pi Day and be safe out there on the roads for St. Patrick’s Day.

Helena is the first municipality to implement guidelines and plans for infrastructure, which just further shows the leadership always wanting to be two steps ahead.

- Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena

Mayor Brian Pucke

In this issue

FEATURES 30 Steering the ship

40 The tale of a local author

20 Ready for another season

Helena softball coach looks ahead to 2023 season following last year’s trip to the championship game

Mathew Epps uses his position as HHS principal to help guide others

Deborah Elliott shares insight into her life in Helena

Utilities and Services

Cable, Internet and Phone

AT&T Uverse – 1-888-708-0934 att.com

Spectrum – 1-855-707-7328 spectrum.com

C-Spire, Fiber Internet – 1-855-277-4735 cspire.com

Gas

Spire – 1-800-292-4008 spireenergy.com

Power

Alabama Power Company – 1-800-245-2244 alabamapower.com

Trash Services

Republic Services – (205) 631-1313 republicservices.com

Water and Sewer

Helena Utilities City Water Service (205) 663-1670

LOCAL SCHOOLS

Shelby County Board of Education – (205) 682-7000 shelbyed.k12.al.us/

Helena Elementary School – (205) 682-5540 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes/index.htm

Helena Intermediate School – (205) 682-5520 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/his/index.htm

Helena Middle School – (205) 682-5300 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hlms/index.htm

Helena High School – (205) 682-3650 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs/index.html

Hillsboro 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.

CITYOFHELENA.ORG

City Hall

(205) 663-2161

Fire Department

(205) 663-5809

Sports Complex

(205) 620-2877

Brian

Library

(205) 664-8308

Police

(205) 663-6499

Utilities

(205) 663-1670

City Clerk and Treasurer

Amanda Traywick

THE GUIDE

BAND SPRING MARKET

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

9 A.M. TO 3 P.M. Helena High School

The Helena High School Band will host a Spring Market on March 11. Attendees can shop boutique clothing, delicious treats, home decor, jewelry and more. Admission is $2 at the door. For more information, visit Helena Spring Market on Facebook.

Spring Sports at Helena schools

Get out and enjoy the beautiful spring weather this year by catching our local teams in action. Helena High and Middle schools will both have sports going on throughout the week the rest of the spring, including baseball, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track and more. Check those schedules and get out to support the Huskies in action.

TUESDAY, MARCH 7

Friends of the library

5:45 P.M.

Jane B. Holmes Library

The Friends of the Library will meet on Tuesday, March 7 to discuss ways to assist the library, socialize and discuss literary news. This is a great way to get involved in the community and meet new people while supporting the library! For more information, call 205-664-8308 and ask for Dan.

MARCH

MARCH 2 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MARCH 2 | 4:30 P.M.

Helena softball vs. Hoover

MARCH 6 | 6 P.M.

Dr. Seuss Storytime at the library

MARCH 7 | 9:45 A.M. Exercise Class (Silver Sneakers) at the Helena Sports Complex

MARCH 7 | 10:45 A.M.

Yoga at the Helena Sports Complex

MARCH 7 | 4:30 P.M.

Helena softball at Pelham

MARCH 7 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MARCH 7 | 5:45 P.M.

The Friends of the Library meeting

MARCH 7 | 5 P.M. AND 7 P.M.

Helena boys and girls soccer vs. Indian Springs

MARCH 11 | 9 A.M.-3 P.M.

Band Spring Market at HHS

MARCH 13 | 4 P.M.

Helena Utility Board Meeting

MARCH 13 | 5:30 P.M.

Shamrock Garden Craft at the library

MARCH 13 | 6 P.M.

Helena City Council Meeting

MARCH 14 | 5 P.M. AND 7 P.M.

Helena boys and girls soccer vs. Briarwood

MARCH 15 | 10:30 A.M.

Hoopla Basics class at the library

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

MARCH 16 | 6 P.M. Planning and Zoning Committee

MARCH 16 | 5 P.M.

Helena softball vs. Jasper

MARCH 17 | 5:30 P.M.

Helena girls soccer vs. Boaz

MARCH 20 | 5:30 P.M.

Spring Rain Cloud Craft at the library

MARCH 20 | 4:30 P.M.

Helena softball vs. Pelham

MARCH 23 | 4 P.M.

Helena baseball vs. Wetumpka

MARCH 24 | 6:30 P.M.

Helena baseball vs. Pelham

MARCH 27 | 6 P.M.

Helena City Council Meeting

SATURDAY, APRIL 15

Helena Old Town Live

Helena Amphitheatre Park

The Helena Old Town Board unveiled the lineup for the 2023 Old Town Live summer concert series, and the first concert is set for April 15. Drayton Farley and 49 Winchester will kick off the series with soulful melodies alongside the country-pop stylings of Lindsay Ell. To stay up to date on Old Town Live, visit the Helena Old Town Board on Facebook.

RIVALS TAKE CENTER STAGE

HELENA’S BOYS AND GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAMS TOOK ON RIVAL PELHAM TO END AREA PLAY. HELENA’S BOYS WENT ON TO WIN THE REGULAR-SEASON AREA CHAMPIONSHIP AS WELL AS THE AREA TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONSHIP.

PHOTOS BY LARRY DANCY

HELENA OLD TOWN LIVE LINEUP RELEASED

The lineup for the third annual Helena Old Town Live concert series was released by The Helena Old Town Board. On April 15, Drayton Farley and 49 Winchester will kick the series off with soulful melodies alongside the country-pop stylings of Lindsay Ell. June 10 will feature North Mississippi Allstars and George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners will take the stage and bring their unique blend of blues and funk to the crowd. Telluride will be joined by the Battle of the Bands winner on July 3 for an evening complete with fireworks. On August 12, Cracker and Bloodkin will take center stage.

HELENA SCORES 5 GOALS IN SEASON-OPENING WIN AGAINST LEEDS

The Helena girls soccer team started the 2023 season with a bang on Thursday, Feb. 2 thanks to a hat trick from freshman Kate Hendrix. The Huskies scored early and often with Hendrix scoring her first career goal and then two additional goals to total three of the team’s five in a 5-2 victory over the Leeds Greenwave.

The Helena High School Band will host a Spring Market on Saturday, March 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Attendees can shop boutique clothing, delicious treats, home decor, jewelry and more. Admission is $2 at the door. For more information, visit Helena Spring Market on Facebook.

HELENA BAND SPRING MARKET SET FOR MARCH

In the News

HHS VARSITY CHEER MAKES HISTORY AT NATIONALS

The Helena High School varsity cheerleading team made history in Orlando this year. Not only did the squad make it to the finals, but they went on to finish seventh in the nation. The Huskies did so in the Super Varsity Division I Non Tumbling Game Day competition.

JOSH WILLIAMS SCORES 1,000 CAREER POINTS

Still just a junior on the Helena basketball team, Josh Williams has already left his mark. The starting guard for the Huskies is one of the top scorers in the county for the second year in a row and recently surpassed 1,000 points with a year still left to play.

WRESTLERS CAP OFF STRONG SEASON WITH STATE TOURNAMENT APPEARANCE

Helena had three different wrestlers qualify for this year’s Class 6A State Wrestling tournament. Joseph and Sam Bratina joined Kenyon Clements in finishing inside the top six at sectionals to earn their spot at state. For information on how each fared at this year’s state tournament, visit Shelbycountyreporter.com.

PORTER NAMED HHS SUPPORT PERSON OF THE YEAR

Helena High School paraprofessional Dale Porter was recently named the school’s Support Person of the Year for the 2022-2023 school year. A leader in the school, she was recognized by administration for her efforts in February.

HELENA UNITED FESTIVAL SET TO RETURN IN APRIL

The Helena Diversity and Inclusion Board announced the annual Helena United Festival will take place this spring. The festival is set for Saturday, April 22 at Helena Amphitheater Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The board said residents and members of surrounding cities are invited to attend this free event.

HELENA KNOCKS OFF BRIARWOOD

Helena continues to dominate in the 6A Area 8 region after picking its third area win against the Briarwood Lions on Friday, Jan. 20. A powerful defensive run in the first half led to a 50-33 victory for the Huskies.

In the News

CARRINGTON HODGE NAMED DISTINGUISHED YOUNG WOMAN OF ALABAMA

Carrington Hodge of Helena was named the Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama for 2023. She was awarded cash scholarships for the statewide scholarship program. The ceremony was held in Montgomery. Out of 42 high school senior girls from the state, Hodge took home the title.

HELENA HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH SOCCER CAMP OPENS REGISTRATION

Helena High School opened registration for its youth soccer camp which will take place June 5-9 this summer. Registration is open from K-6 grade starting March 1. For more information, visit Helena High School-Soccer on Facebook.

STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN SHOWCASE OF SCHOOLS

Local students from Helena schools got the opportunity to participate in Shelby County Schools’ annual Showcase of Schools event on Feb. 9, highlighting all of the good happening across the county as well as in the hallways of each Helena school.

HELENA POLICE DEPARTMENT PARTICIPATES IN POLAR PLUNGE

Many smiling faces emerged from the frigid water at Oak Mountain State Park for the 12th annual Polar Plunge event on Saturday, Jan. 21. The Helena Police Department participated in the event which was hosted by the Pelham Police Department and the Alabama Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics. Participants present jumped into the chilly water of Oak Mountain State Park and paid a fee to do so, all of which will be given to the Special Olympics.

OLD NAME, NEW LOOK: HELENA CHURCH SEES NAME CHANGE AND RENOVATIONS

The second oldest church in Shelby County, previously known as Helena Cumberland Presbyterian Church, recently changed its name, and it didn’t have to look far for its new namesake. Before the church was known as Helena Cumberland Presbyterian in the early ‘70s, it was previously named Harmony Church. Last year, after a vote, the church decided to change its name back to its former.

In the News

HELENA HIGH SCHOOL HOLDS LITTLE MISS HHS PAGEANT

Helena held the Little Miss HHS pageant on Saturday, Jan. 21. This was the third time the pageant has been held.

DISC GOLF COURSE OPENS AT JOE TUCKER

In addition to other upgrades at the park, Joe Tucker will also be getting a new nine-hole disc golf course. The course will start near the back baseball field, work its way behind the tennis courts and back toward the lake.

REP. HULSEY ELECTED FRESHMEN MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE IN HOUSE GOP LEADERSHIP

State Rep. Leigh Hulsey (R – Helena) announced that she has been elected as the House Republican Caucus’ freshmen representative, a position that allows her to participate in discussions among the caucus leadership and serve as the voice of GOP legislators serving their first term in the body. Hulsey was elected to the post during the recent organizational session of the Alabama Legislature in Montgomery.

HELENA TRACK ATHLETES PERFORM WELL AT STATE COMPETITION

The Helena Huskies had several top-10 finishers at this year’s Class 6A State Track and Field Championship, including four who finished inside the top five. Brooklyn Kelley Was the highest finisher by claiming second in the shot put, while Walter Womack finished third in the long jump. Aspen Warren finished fifth in the 800-meter run, while the boys’ 4X200-meter relay team featuring Womack, Jeremiah Benson, Jalon Benson and Brandon Williams also claimed fifth. Michael Sestli added a finish of eighth in pole vaulting.

MCDONALD LEADS HUSKIES TO AREA TITLE IN FIRST YEAR

The Helena Huskies completed the area sweep this season by not only winning the regular-season area championship but taking down rival Pelham to claim the area tournament title as well. In the first year under head coach Lucas McDonald, Helena accomplished the feat with a 41-32 win over the Panthers.

Joe Tucker Park has been undergoing major upgrades in recent months, mainly to the lake area. A new walking path is finished, while the lake upgrades are now complete as well. The city is relying on mother nature to fill in the lake, which should fill in and return to normal before spring.

JOE TUCKER PARK CLOSE TO LAKE UPGRADES BEING FINISHED

Sports

SCOTT LOWERY

Helena High School head so ball coach and assistant football coach

How did you become a coach, and did you always know you wanted to pursue coaching?

I knew I wanted to be a coach after my sophomore year in high school. I had previously been interested in being an accountant, but I was inspired by my high school football coach Jack Wood from Hewitt Trussville.

How would you describe your coaching style?

Hmm, if I had to describe it I guess I would say I am extremely tough but rewarding.

If you have any, who are some of your biggest coaching inspirations or who do you look to when it comes to advice?

Like I mentioned before my high school football coach. There are 3 mentors I coach with in football from Coach Busby, Coach Elgin, and Coach Maple, all current or former Head Football coaches. I also get inspirations from great coaches like Nick Saban and Tony Dungy, Motivational Speakers Kevin Elko, and Brian Kight.

You are coming off an incredible year last year that saw the team advance to the State Championship, how do you plan to keep that momentum this year?

One of one slogans this year is ‘Protect the Standard’. Protect what this program stands for. It stands for being one of the best programs on and off the field. The standard is the standard but they have to focus being the best they can be working and winning together their way.

What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned from coaching?

It means so much to me to see players succeed especially later on in life.

What do you hope your players learn from being a part of a team?

How to love to compete not only for themselves but for each other. Hopefully they learn to take adversity and use it for motivation instead of a setback.

How did last year’s senior class change the culture?

Seeing them mature from freshmen when I was the JV coach to where they are now; you can’t have any better maturation. They’re going to be successful, whether it be out here or in a classroom, we never have to worry about them doing what they’re supposed to. You can’t ask for anything better than that. They’re good people who set the standard for us moving forward.

How much fun has it been to be the coach of the Helena Huskies?

It has been fun. I mean, I put them through a grind. When I first started during COVID year, they were calling me football guy and I said, ‘Well, I’ve been doing this for years with baseball’ and they finally got comfortable with me. You can see how tough they are, and it’s not because of me but because they adapted. They’re good people and teammates.

Childrens AL •org

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

GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY

SSpring is on the way, and we are excited that everyone will have the opportunity to enjoy some warmer weather.

Warmer temperatures mean a great time to visit the library and READ.

The last couple of months have included unique programs and featured great guests and authors.

for the Library. We appreciate the efforts of these young people. Many of these students have donated books they loved as kids, and a new generation of readers benefitted by finding them on library shelves or discovering them at book sales.

MARCH EVENTS

Evening Storytime with a Dr. Seuss theme on Monday, March 6 at 6 p.m.

On Tuesday, March 7 at 5:45 p.m., The Friends of the Library will meet. This group meets to discuss ways to assist the library, socialize and discuss literary. Please call the Library at 205-664-8308 for information (Ask for Dan!)

Library Director

Dan Dearing

Special thanks to Helena author Deborah Elliott for visiting and presenting the first chapter of her new book Family Tails: My Life With Boys, Dogs, and other Amazing Critters, a heartwarming memoir of the life of a Helena resident with family and a menagerie of animals. Elliott is a local author, and congratulations to her on a great accomplishment: writing a book!

The library appreciates The Helena Historical Preservation Committee for co-hosting local author and photographer Glenn Wills, as he brought his program and book Finding Forgotten Alabama. Wills travels through Alabama taking pictures of abandoned places. We appreciate these presenters and guests very much.

Read Across America Week is celebrated from March 2-6. Celebrate by doing something that is good for you, reading! The library features new books, decorations and has events to recognize Read Across America Week each year.

March is the time for The National English Honor Society at Helena High School to hold its Book Drive

Monday, March 13 features a Shamrock Garden craft at 5:30 p.m. (Ages 3 to 7 years)

On Wednesday, March 15 at 10:30 a.m., join us for Hoopla Basics: How to Access E-Books and Audiobooks. Hoopla is digital service that is new to the library, and this program will give you the details on how to access it.

Monday, March 20 at 5:30 p.m., stop in to make a fun Spring Rain Cloud Craft. (Ages 3 to 7 years)

Monday, March 27, the ever popular Lego Fun! From 5:30 to 6:30 PM – Build with Legos and meet new friends!

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

March’s Top Picks

TRUST

By Hernan Diaz | Adult Fiction

An unparalleled novel about money, power, intimacy, and perception.

THE COMPLETE MODERN PANTRY: 350+ WAYS TO COOK WELL WITH WHAT’S ON HAND

By America’s Test Kitchen | Adult Nonfiction

Transform pantry ingredients into creative, flavor-packed meals you won’t need to head to the supermarket to make.

THE GOOD LIFE: LESSONS FROM THE WORLD’S LONGEST SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF HAPPINESS

By Robert Waldinger M.D. | Adult Nonfiction

With warmth, wisdom, and compelling life stories, The Good Life shows us how we can make our lives happier and more meaningful through our connections to others.

FIVE SURVIVE

By Holly Jackson | Young Adult

Eight hours. Six friends. Five survive. A new blockbuster thriller about a road trip that turns deadly.

THE GREATEST IN THE WORLD! (TATER TALES)

By Ben Clanton | Juvenile

Two spud siblings face off in a series of epic challenges in this first “delightful laugh-onevery-page” installment of a hilariously silly graphic novel chapter book series.

YETIS ARE THE WORST

By Alex Willan | Easy/Picture

Fueled by jealousy that everyone seems to think the yeti the most interesting of creatures, a young goblin named Gilbert heads up a snow mountain in search of the snow beast.

MISTY STEPHENS

Helena Elementary School first grade teacher

How did you become a teacher, and when did you come to Helena?

As a little girl, I was always teaching my stuffed animals. I kind of always knew I wanted to teach, but I didn’t realize it until my sophomore year in college. I graduated from the University of Montevallo with a special education degree. I received my general early childhood certification from UAB. I furthered my education by getting my master’s degree from The University of Montevallo and I have my national board certification. I taught in Birmingham City Schools for eight-and-a-half years before coming to Helena. This is my 16th year at Helena Elementary.

What is your favorite thing about teaching?

There are many reasons why I love teaching. One of my favorites is when my students have that “WOW” moment when they understand a new concept or are able to apply their learning independently. I love when they get excited about learning, make connections, and work together to solve problems. It makes my heart smile when I reflect and see how much they have grown from the beginning of the year to the end.

As a teacher, what is the biggest thing you’ve learned from your students?

I have learned many things from my students over the years. Some that come to mind are to always be flexible, to be present in the moment and be forever curious.

Being a first grade teacher, what do you wish more people knew about kids?

At this age, children are very open minded. Every child enters the classroom with different personalities, backgrounds, and experiences. Children always find a way to create a family bond within the classroom. It is truly magical to see.

How would you describe your teaching style?

I would describe my teaching style as student centered with hands-on, small group, and individualized learning. I try to incorporate fun activities to help promote reflective thinking. I encourage students to learn from their mistakes, have a more active role in their education and help them develop a sense of love for learning.

What is your favorite unit/lesson to teach and why?

It is hard to pick just one lesson because there is so much I enjoy teaching. I love reading books to my students. It is always fun to watch their reactions to each story. I also enjoy teaching about space. The children always have a lot of questions, and there is so much to explore.

City Hall Faces

Chaed Agee

Helena Fire Captain

In just two decades, Chaed Agee has seen the monumental shift in the city of Helena. A paramedic of 32 years, Agee began volunteering at the Helena Fire Department in 1997 and became an employee in 1999. The pull to Helena, like many will tell you, was the people. “Being a paramedic in a private ambulance, you’re covering a large area, Agee said. “You’re not really connected to some areas you’re working. Here in Helena, it’s my town, it’s my people. You make connections with the people. You see some of the patients over and over, you see the people that your kids play ball with or go to school with. You’re truly serving the community.” While going through records earlier in the year, Agee found a report saying the Helena Fire Department made 220 calls in 2000. In 2022 the department made close to 2,000. With the influx of residents and calls, the HFD has gone from having a total of three people working at two stations to more than 30 on staff. Agee’s favorite part of his job is what is at the core of being a member of the HFD, helping people in a time of need. “I feel like this is one of the few things that is still truly a service,” he said. “We come out and provide a service in people’s time of need. No questions asked. No strings attached. You know, you call us and we show up and we take care of what a lot of times is somebody’s worst day ever. We come in and try and do everything we can to mitigate the problem and make the day better in whatever way we can. So that’s what I like about about the fire service.”

Helena Church Directory

ANGLICAN

Lamb of God Church

Head Pastor: Caron Glenn Davis

5140 Highway 17 (205) 919-7932

Lambofgodcec.org

BAPTIST

The Church at Old Town

Head Pastor: Josh Knierim

815 Highway 52 E (205) 663-7879

Thechurchatoldtown.org

Gospel Light Baptist Church

Lead Pastor: Gary Bohman

5781 Roy Drive (205) 685-0772

Glbcbham.com

Mount Pleasant Baptist Church

Head Pastor: Edwin Dinkles

5320 Helena Road (205) 624-3323

Mpbchelena.com

Riverside Baptist Church

Senior Pastor: Chris Wilson

Worship Pastor: Kyle Ziglar

1919 Highway 52 West

(205) 426-1910

Rbchelena.org

Crossbridge Community Church

Lead Pastor: Cody Brister

1455 Starkey Street (205) 358-3500

Crossbridgehelena.com

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Church of Christ at Helena

2499 Highway 58 (205) 620-4575

Helenachurch.com

DISCIPLES OF CHRIST

Grace Christian Church

Lead Pastor: Rev. Brad Henderson

869 County Road 52 (205) 426-1233

Gracechristianchurch.org

METHODIST

Helena United Methodist

Head Pastor: Rev. Rusty Tate

2035 Highway 58 (205) 663-0111

Helenaumc.org

Church at Cahaba Bend

Lead Pastor: Rev. Patrick Friday

3721 Highway 52 West (205) 621-8060

Cahababend.org

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Open Door Independent Church

120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963

Opendooral.com

Cornerstone Church Life Christian Fellowship

Lead Pastor: Rev. Tim Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332

Cornerstonechurchhelena.org

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

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

Pastors: Phil Chambers and David Cunningham 2222 Highway 52 (205) 881-4222

ChristCommunity.net

Helena United Methodist Church

Grace Christian Church

Meet Your Neighbor Kelli Holmes

Kelli Holmes lives in Helena with her two children and husband. Originally from Pelham, Kelli said the choice to raise her family in Helena was due to the close knit community and controlled but continued growth of the city. “There’s something about the quaintness of living in Helena that we just wanted to pursue,” Kelli said. Some of Kelli’s favorite parts of Helena include the outside spaces available to residents, the new Japanese restaurant Osaka and Helena Fitness. Kelli found a home-awayfrom-home at The University of Montevallo where she acts at the executive director of advancement and adjunct teaches in the Michael A. Stephens College of Business. Additionally, Kelli is the chair of the Helena Economic Development Board which was created in 2020. Kelli was interested in the board has she

handles some economic development and local government relations in her role at UM. “As a board, we work to increase economic development through a variety of channels, trying to be thought provoking on the types of industry and retail that fits best within our community,” she said. “And currently, we are working to meet the goals that are laid out in the “One Connected Community” Helena comprehensive plan.”Working on the board feels like an extension of herself, Kelli said, as volunteerism has always been important to her. “Servitude is something that’s extremely important to me and to my family,” she said. “So, if I’m in a community, I want to give back to it. And so this is my way to give back to a community that I’ve come to love so much.”

RESIDENTS CHIME IN WITH THEIR EXCITMENT

AFTER THE HELENA OLD TOWN LIVE LINEUP WAS RELEASED FOR THIS YEAR

ALLISON BARCLAY

“Fabulous lineup.”

HEY BEBE

“Yes bebe!!”

RENA KERR

“So cool.”

JEFF LATHAM

“Can’t wait for April 15.”

HEWY WOODMAN

“Awesome Helena Old Town!”

TYLER VANN

“NMAS... Bloodkin... Great job Helena!”

BILLY ROSENER

“This summer’s lineup is going to be awesome!”

ALLIE NORRIS ROSENER

“So awesome!!”

STEERING THE SHIP

As a leader, Mathew Epps aims to guide others in finding their purpose

BY MEG HERNDON

PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES AND CONTRIBUTED

AA school bell rings at Helena Middle School, and outside his office, Dr. Mathew Epps is in his element as he high-fives and fist-bumps a rush of kids making their way to their next class.

Mathew has stepped into his role as Principal of Helena Middle School with poise. Despite only steering the ship since September, he seems to be at home in his office and in the school.

With an air of certainty about him, many might believe that Mathew has always envisioned himself as a leader, but like many, his life was not so linear or set in stone. Originally, he obtained his associate’s degree in computer science and computer information systems. Inspired by his uncle who worked for Texas Instruments, Mathew toyed with the idea of becoming an electrical

engineer.

“It took me two semesters at UAB to realize that wasn’t my passion,” Mathew said. “That’s not what my purpose was or what I should be doing. So, after a very challenging semester, and honestly, not making the best grades, I had to sit back and reflect on what I really wanted to do.”

Mathew found himself thinking about his younger years and the things he found true joy and fulfilment in. As a teenager, he often found himself working at his local YMCA as a camp counselor in the summer and after school.

“I just had the best time working with kids,” he said. “I developed a passion to work with kids during that, and I have always been a fanatic basketball fan. So, when I was getting ready to

change my major, I said, ‘You know, I’d really like to coach basketball.’”

Mathew went on to change his major to early childhood elementary education. In those classes, he learned the ins and outs of teaching and the development of children’s minds, finding within himself a passion and excitement to teach.

Quickly after graduating with his bachelor’s degree, Mathew began teaching fifth grade at Rutledge Middle School in Midfield. He also had the opportunity to coach both the girls and boys middle school basketball teams.

“Throughout coaching, I started to see a whole

other different life passion, from a mentor aspect,” Mathew said. “Not just teaching math, but teaching them about life.”

Being able to know the children he taught outside of a classroom through coaching, Mathew felt he was able to understand and guide them from a much more holistic point of view.

While at Midfield, Mathew was also the director of the after-school program which extended through summer.

“One of my principals at the time, who was a really good friend of mine, he basically said, ‘Everything you’re doing in this after-school

program is what a principal or administration does,’” Mathew said. “So, I was at the school one summer, and he called me into his office and had me sit down and fill out an application and go back to get my master’s at UAB.”

After receiving his master’s in educational leadership and a specialist’s in education leadership, he had the opportunity to work at Midfield High School as an assistant principal. A year later, he was hired to be the assistant principal of Oak Mountain High School.

Mathew worked at Oak Mountain from 2016 until he was offered the job to become the principal

of Helena Middle School in September 2022.

“It’s been great,” he said about his time so far in Helena. “Great people, passionate educators. They want to do what’s best for the kids to make sure they learn.”

Mentors and leaders are not created out of thin air. While they might have an innate quality that makes them predisposed to leading, they themselves had and have their own support systems who help steer them, give them advice and work through problems.

“I’m very grateful and appreciative that someone saw some capabilities they felt I had and

pushed me,” Mathew said. “I had some really great principals that I’ve worked from. So, I’ve been able to watch them and take stuff from each person. I have had some really good training just by watching people.”

Some of the best advice he ever received is, “In leadership, you’re not going to make everyone happy.”

“Which is kind of blunt, but true,” he said. “Everybody’s not going to agree with every single decision—and that’s fine. But at the same time, if your goals are aligned to what you are trying to get accomplish, everything’s going to work out regardless.”

Making a single decision for thousands of

individuals can be hard, and in an attempt to make it a bit easier, Mathew has created a leadership team. The team consists of a representative from each core area—english, history, science and math—P.E., electives, a media specialist and all of the schools counselors. Each representative is voted on by the departments and speaks on behalf of them.

“When it comes to some of the decisions we make in the school, I like to ask them their feedback before that decision is made,” he said. “I try my best to do at least once a month meetings with them. If I try to put 50 people in a room and say, ‘Hey, what should we do about this?’ I don’t think that’s the most effective way to get the

“I have a very strong belief that this school, the people in this school, really deep down care about kids. We have a passion for what we do. Our mission is to strive for academic excellence by providing a supportive and positive culture, and I do feel strongly in the mission statement.”

- DR. MATHEW EPPS

decision made. But I do think with a small group of people, I think we can come to some form of consensus to get things done.”

He implemented the leadership team when he began working at the school in September, and he said it has been exactly what he hoped it would be—honest.

“They’ve been honest, and that’s what I asked for,” he said. “I’ve tried to be as vulnerable as I can to make sure they understand that if I make a mistake, I want them to tell me. They tell me what their colleagues are feeling and thinking.”

In return, the representatives also go back to their colleagues and explain why they landed on certain outcomes. In his own way, Mathew has already begun to do the inherent part of leadership, what his previous principal at Midfield did for him—light the torch within and encourage others who are called to lead.

Mathew seems confident in his role as a leader, but as many would imagine, it is not always easy. The ripple effect of making decisions can weigh heavily on him. Even the most minute determination can lead to something he might not have considered. Something that might be considered a positive could become negative in

unpredictable ways.

“I do think, in so many words, leaders want to serve people,” Mathew said. “And when you serve, you are always trying to do what’s best for people, But then, every decision you make is not what’s best for everybody. So, it’s almost impossible to do the job.”

He said it’s easy to allow oneself to linger in a negative headspace, worrying over unchangeable things of the past. Learning from past mistakes or

actions is a part of self-improvement, however, stewing in depreciation is not productive to growth. Mathew’s advice for those who wish to lead or already are—be vulnerable, but have security.

“People do it in different ways—spiritually, physically, mentally—you have to take care of yourself,” he said. “You have to be willing to be vulnerable with yourself and understand you don’t have it all. You have to be willing to grow

and learn. I don’t think an insecure leader is good for anybody. So, you have to believe in what you’re doing.”

This advice is even reflected in what he tells the kids that scramble throughout the halls of the middle school.

“I always say this—if you know your purpose, nobody can knock you off your purpose. So, if you feel like you are really doing what you’re supposed to be doing, when those outside forces and challenges are coming in, you just relate back to that. Now, this is what I was called to do. So how can anybody distort your calling if you know that’s what you were called to do?”

Mathew extended his gratitude to those who helped him along the way, all the teachers, children and their parents for “trusting them with their most precious jewel.”

“I have a very strong belief that this school, the people in this school, really deep down care about kids,” he said. “We have a passion for what we do. Our mission is to strive for academic excellence by providing a supportive and positive culture, and I do feel strongly in the mission statement. I do believe that the people in this building are striving for those goals.”

FAMILY TAILS

Local author opens up about how life in Helena shaped her family book

BY LIZZIE BOWEN PHOTOS BY CONTRIBUTED

UUpon entering the home of Deborah Elliott, the overall feeling was festive and cozy. Her Christmas decorations are strewn across the fireplace, and the Christmas tree stands tall. This house has seen a lot.

This house has survived a tornado, seen many beloved animals live and die, and Elliott raise her three boys within the four walls of this home. Deborah is a nurse who has a passion for writing and has a book entitled “Family Tails: My life with boys, dogs, and other amazing critters.” She decided to tell the story of her life with her three sons and all the animals they have raised throughout their years in Helena.

“Originally, I started jotting down stories for my children,” Elliott said. “They are all true stories, and I didn’t want them to forget the

amazing critters we had. I knew that as they grew up, they weren’t going to remember it. As time went on, it developed, and eventually I felt I should make it available for people beyond my family.”

When the pandemic began, Elliott was a nurse, and faced with extra time, so she decided to make it a reality. She decided to work seriously on the book and give her son’s critters a voice.

“This book will appeal to anyone who loves family, nature and animals,” she said. “People often read books that are exciting adventure books, and it takes them out of their lives. This book is a book I think many people can identify with.”

The experience of having an animal you truly love is one that is shared by many. Elliott hopes to

tell the triumphant tale of a family, set in Helena, and what pets can truly mean when it comes to a family dynamic.

“It will make you laugh a lot,” she said. “It may make you cry a little bit too. But it is really beyond just animal stories.”

Ron Adair, a Helena resident and the illustrator of the book, sits on the couch across from Elliott

and his face brightens when talking about first coming across it. You can tell immediately of the passion he has for this project and the way in which the story touched him.

“This book is rich, and it is multi-dimensional,” Adair said. “The critters are the thread that holds it all together, but they are in many ways, front and center. The other things in the book really

add so much texture to the book.”

Adair has known Elliott for many years and has done illustrations for several different books, but when he came across “Family Tails: My life with boys, dogs, and other amazing critters” he said he knew it was truly special, which excited Elliot.

“I’m honored that he felt my book was worthy of his time and talent,” Elliott said.

Adair said he has a passion for animals and that his love for animals made the project that much easier.

“It was nice to be excited about doing the next piece,” Adair said about illustrating the pictures for Elliot’s book. “I grew up with such a variety of animals, and I could certainly identify with the connection God gives us with His creative order in so many different ways. There was a lot in my DNA that really attracted me to Debbie’s book.”

Elliot said she has always enjoyed writing, and it has remained a passion throughout her life. Although she chose nursing as a profession (one that she loves equally as much and shares a similar passion for) writing was always in the back of her mind as something she wanted to wholeheartedly pursue.

Elliott explains all the critters that she has had

throughout her time in this house and how they are featured in her book. Her eyes light up as she mentions each and every animal, the love she had for them evident in her expression.

The first animal is Susie, an english setter who lived 14 years who she described as a “wonderful dog.”

“She had so much character,” Elliott said. “She loved to dig in the ground, she loved to run, she loved to watch the sky, she loved fireworks and she is featured in several different chapters.”

Her next animal was named Shepherd, who was a 110-pound stray German shepherd.

“When he showed up, he was over twice as big as my two boys put together,” she said. “He was so huge and massive, but he was the biggest baby. He was just wonderful. He was a very protective dog and a very loving dog.”

Next, she tells the tale of Spike the gecko, who was a part of their family for over 12 years. She laughs when she talks about him.

“It is amazing how attached you can get to a lizard,” she said.

Whiskers is a squirrel brought home by Elliot’s son, Sam, who is featured and illustrated in the book. Adair shows an intricately drawn photo of

Whiskers where he is sitting in a boot.

“I raised him until he was almost an adult,” she said. “He was just a sweetie. He loved my husband Lou.”

Elliott then speaks about the “assortment of aquatic creatures” that her sons grew up with and how they also played a part in the family.

“We had Mozart the catfish,” she said. “We had a Jamaican shrimp. We had Fatboy who was a fire belled newt. He was a character too, he lived for about 15 years in our tank.”

Elliott goes on to talk about her other two dogs, Jasmine and Lily who she describes as “extremely intelligent.” Jasmine was a black lab and Lily was a rescue dog from the humane society who she said was “a little bit of everything.”

“She was really sweet,” she said. “Her and Jasmine were just best friends.”

A cat named Autumn was also thought of fondly, and it was said that she talked in her own way and language. Miss Pepper was a mixed lab who loved to play tug of war. The description of this little animal family is fondly described as “an assortment of creatures.”

Elliott said she has always wanted to be a writer and became inspired to become one at eight years

old when she first began writing.

“It started when I was in school one day,” she said. “We used to tell a story after lunch, you had to tell a story to the class and my day come. I wasn’t prepared. I forgot about it. So, I just got up there and made up a story and everyone stood up and clapped.”

Elliott said that becoming a nurse was a wonderful profession, but a part of her always dreamed of being a writer. She continued to write for newsletters, magazines and has a lot of ideas for books to write in the future.

Adair said he has always enjoyed making art and has been drawing since he was five years old.

“My identical twin brother and I, Don, we had this great competition going back and forth where he would learn to do something, and I would get motivated to learn it as well as him,” he said. “We had this cross-pollination of motivation skills. Our interest were very similar. I learned a lot, and we both started drawing when we were 5 or 6 years old.”

Adair said he learned so much more about Elliott’s husband, Lou, and about her family as a whole while he read the chapters of her book. As he illustrated them, he found himself knowing her

whole family (and her critters) in a way he never thought he would.

“I’ve always wanted to draw and paint,” Adair said. “I have always enjoyed that, and thankfully, by God’s grace, I have been able to do it throughout the course of my life.”

As we sit in her house, Elliott recalls the day that a tornado hit, and how she tried to protect her three boys the best she could. This story is retold in the book with illustrations by Adair, and Elliott said that the chapter entitled “Tornado” might be the longest one in the book.

“It was 2:30 a.m. in the morning when we woke up,” she said. “The phone jangled once, and that was because the phone line had been hit by lightning. We got the kids, and we all huddled together. The whole house was shaking.”

Elliott said that the house was built very well

and that she felt blessed. Although heavily damaged, the house stood strong. Not a single window was broken during the storm. Several oak trees had fallen down due to straight line winds. Some of the trees were very large, and the trees fell in a way that Elliott describes as a “barrier.” She believes that these fallen trees protected the house.

“We were very fortunate,” she said. “It took a year to get us back. I stood on the front steps the next morning, and from my front steps I counted 75 trees on the ground.”

Tales like this one are told in Elliot’s book “Family Tails: My life with boys, dogs and other amazing critters.” She hopes that this story will touch others and remind them of the importance of animals, family and sharing life experiences. The book can be found and ordered on Amazon.

“People o en read books that are exciting adventure books, and it takes them out of their lives. This book is a book I think many people can identify with.”

- DEBORAH ELLIOTT

A NIGHT WITH GLENN WILLIS

Glenn Wills, author of “Forgotten Alabama” was featured as a guest speaker of the Helena Historic Preservation and Helena Public Library on Tuesday, Jan. 17. At the meeting, he shared his experiences from his time throughout the state and the many stories behind a collection of his photographs.

1. Hewy Woodman and Linda Wurs

2. Glenn Wills and Diana Toth

3. Diana and Chris Toth

4. Jeff, Bernice and Jim Minners

5. Brian and Jane Peters

6. Vicki Conaway

7. Butch and Cindy Botters

8. Deana Williamson

9. Frankie Fulgham and Francis Hinds

PHOTOS BY MEG HERNDON

WINTER WONDERLAND

The Church at Cahaba Bend held its Winter Wonderland event for the community on Sunday, Feb. 5.

1. Chris, Heather and Graham Leon

2. Cheryl Thorton and Beck and Shawn Menke

3. Angela and Charlotte Sanders

4. Brock, Natasha, Braxton and Lyla Tuck

5. Crystal Charcandy and Kellie McKinney

6. Alex and Shepherd Thompson

7. Dale, Sara and Abbey Kate Massey

8. Fran Neal, Christy Collins and Gail Mitchell

9. Griffin and Austin Raughton

PHOTOS BY LIZZIE BOWEN

TAKING THE PLUNGE FOR A CAUSE

POLICE OFFICERS WITH THE HELENA POLICE DEPARTMENT CAME TOGETHER TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ANNUAL POLAR PLUNGE THIS YEAR TO HELP RAISE MONEY FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS.

PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES

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Foodie’s Paradise

El Patron Bar & Grill

One of the many reasons to love Helena is for it’s amazing Mexican food! On almost every corner of the city you can find some delicious eateries.

MY HELENA

SHAY TRAYWICK

Assistant Principal of Thompson Intermediate School

Sports and Activities

Helena parks and rec

I love Helena for the athletic opportunities that my kids have had throughout their childhood. It has afforded our entire family with the chance to meet other families in the community and spend this phase of life with people we now consider close friends.

Steady Growth

Across the community Helena is growing really fast, and yet it still remains a hometown-type community. Residents can raise their kids here knowing they can create lasting memories in their early years in a safe area.

Caring and Kindness

Shopping at local stores

I can always count on the local Publix and Walmart to extend the utmost kindness and compassion for all of its patrons. The overall warmth of the community is reflected in these establishments.

Supportive Community

Helena schools

An amazing part of our town is the incredible community support. Whether it’s surrounding the students, teachers or neighbors—our city does a lot to give back to its people on a general basis.