Helena - The Magazine May 2023

MCLENDON’S WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL SUCCESS

HAYWOOD’S LIFELONG LOVE FOR THE CITY

HELENA

HELENA’S TOP EIGHT SENIORS REFLECT ON HARD WORK AHEAD OF GRADUATION FLIPPING THEIR TASSELS

City Leadership

A letter from the mayor

Let’s carry the excitement from April into a big month of May

What an absolutely amazing April we have had, and May is only going to get better. I wanted to take a moment to share exciting news and updates from our city.

First, out of the gate, I want to extend my congratulations to the Helena Middle School softball team for winning the Metro Championship and to the Helena High School baseball team for winning the

Area Championship. We are proud of your hard work and dedication to your sport. Each and every year, the middle school and high school softball and baseball teams represent our city with pride and strength.

Additionally, I want to give a shout out to the HOTBoard for putting on one heck of an opener of the Old Town Live concert series that took place on April 15. It was a fantastic event that brought our

community together and highlighted amazing talent. People came from Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky and Virginia to Helena for the show. The volunteers of the HOTBoard spend a ton of time, energy and talent to not only put these events on for our community, but to also promote economic development within the city. The June concert will be here before we know it.

The Helena Beautification Board has done it again. They have Old Town lined with the hanging basket planters that everyone loves seeing. The pops of color make waiting on a train to pass a whole lot more enjoyable. Thank you to all of the volunteers of the Beautification Board and others that came out to get their hands dirty to keep Helena Beautiful.

As we move into May, our Parks and Recreation

Department is currently accepting registrations for the Youth Football and Cheerleading program. This is a fantastic opportunity for our youth to get involved in team sports and build lifelong friendships.

I am also excited about the upcoming high school graduation for Helena High School students. It is always a joyous occasion to celebrate the accomplishments of our young adults as they prepare to take the next step in their journey. For years, the seniors have worked up to the point of this major milestone, and each May, I am thankful I get to witness it firsthand.

As always, there are so many things to do and enjoy in Helena. I urge you to get out with your family and explore all that our city has to offer with the beautiful warm weather ahead. Together, let’s make this month memorable and enjoyable for all.

Together As One, - Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena

Each and every year, the middle school and high school softball and baseball teams represent our city with pride and strength.

Mayor Brian Puckett

In this issue

FEATURES

31 Flip of the cap

39

Beating the odds

30 Professional student

Helena’s top eight seniors eyeing graduation

Mary McLendon succeeds in wheelchair basketball

Peter Haywood balances Helena life as a student and employee

Utilities and Services

Cable, Internet and Phone

uAT&T Uverse – 1-888-708-0934

att.com

uSpectrum – 1-855-707-7328 spectrum.com

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

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

Gas

Power

uAlabama Power Company – 1-800-245-2244 alabamapower.com

Trash Services

uRepublic Services – (205) 631-1313 republicservices.com

Water and Sewer

uHelena Utilities City Water Service (205) 663-1670

LOCAL SCHOOLS

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

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

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

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

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

uHillsboro School - (205) 864-7330 thehillsboroschool.org

HELENA HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION

MONDAY, MAY 22

6 P.M.

Samford University’s Pete Hanna Center

Helena High School will celebrate the class of 2023 at a commencement ceremony scheduled for Monday, May 22. This year’s graduation will be held at Samford University’s Pete Hanna Center and will begin at 6 p.m. with student arrival set for 4:30 p.m.

THE GUIDE

TUESDAY, MAY 30

Summer Reading Program

ALL DAY

Jane B. Holmes Public Library

This year’s summer reading program at the Jane B. Holmes Public Library will start on Tuesday, May 30. This year’s theme will be “All Together Now.” For those who are not familiar, many public libraries nationwide offer a free program for kids of all ages encouraging reading during the summer. Features include a reading challenge with goals and prizes, live programs with educational themes and some great crafts, storytimes, decorating and so much more!

AROUND TOWN

MAY 2 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MAY 4 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MAY 8 | 5:30 P.M.

Mother’s Day Craft at the library

MAY 8 | 6 P.M.

Helena City Council meeting

MAY 9 | 9 A.M.

Senior Awards Day at Helena High School

MAY 9 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MAY 10 | 10:30 A.M.

Free Seniors Program at the library

MARY 11 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MAY 16 | 7 A.M.

All Pro Dads Breakfast at Helena Intermediate School

MAY 16 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MAY 16 | 7 P.M.

Helena Middle School spring choir concert

MONDAY, MAY 8

Helena City Council Meeting

5 P.M.

Helena City Hall

The Helena City Council will hold its regular meeting on Monday, May 8. The work session begins at 5 p.m. with the full council meeting at 6 p.m. In compliance with the Open Meetings Act for the state of Alabama, all Council meetings are open to the public and the city encourages citizens to attend. These meetings are an excellent opportunity to get involved and to learn more about what’s really happening in Helena government.

MAY 18 | 10:30 A.M.

Library book sale

MAY 18 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MAY 18 | 6 P.M.

Planning and Zoning Committee

MAY 19 | 8 A.M.

Parade of graduates for HHS senior class

MAY 20 | 10 A.M.

Final book sale at the library before summer

MAY 22 | 5:30 P.M.

LEGO Fun at the library

MAY 22 | 6 P.M. Helena High School graduation

MAY 23 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MAY 24 | 10 A.M.

Check out 10 books, get one free at the library

MAY 25 | 8 A.M.

Final day of school for Shelby County students

MAY 25 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the library

MAY 29 | ALL DAY Memorial Day

MAY 30 | 10 A.M.

Summer reading begins at the library

TUESDAY, MAY 16

HMS spring choir concert

7 P.M. Alabaster First Baptist Church

Helena Middle School students will participate in a special concert on Tuesday, May 16. Taking place at 7 p.m., the concert will feature the Helena Middle School choir in their annual spring concert performed for family and friends at Alabaster First Baptist Church.

YOUTH FOOTBALL AND CHEERLEADING REGISTRATION OPENS

Registration has officially opened for youth flag football, youth tackle football and youth cheerleading in the city of Helena. Registration will remain open until June 3 for both football teams and until May 10 for cheerleading. The cost for tackle football is $220, the cost for flag football is $140 and the cost for cheerleading is $350. For more information, visit Cityofhelena.org.

HELENA POLICE DEPARTMENT DONS NEW BADGES FOR AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

For the month of April, officers with the Helena Police Department wore a different badge patch on their uniforms to support Autism Awareness. It’s a cause that is near and dear to the hearts of the department. Helena Police Chief Brad Flynn said the goal of the badges is also to provide someone with Autism the opportunity to see the badges and immediately feel a sense of comfort or safety around an officer knowing that the officer is aware of their invisible disability and is there to help.

The Helena Library has announced its theme for its summer reading program: All Together Now. Library Director Daniel Dearing said “All Together Now” is a phrase that is meant to bring people together. The program will begin at the end of May on May 30 and will last through the summer. Library Director Dan Dearing said this year’s theme is neat because it encourages thinking outside the box. Examples include books with themes about friendship and taking time to talk when everyone seems in a hurry. Additionally, he said, that while we are all different in some ways, we are all in this together. Helena is always great to help us promote and encourage our reading program, from schools, churches, private citizens and city leadership, it’s a team effort.

HELENA LIBRARY PREPARES FOR SUMMER READING PROGRAM

In the News

MAYOR PUCKETT GIVES UPDATE AT STATE OF COMMUNITIES LUNCHEON

During the annual Shelby County Chamber State of Our Communities Luncheon, Helena Mayor Brian Puckett gave an update on the city’s grown and future. “Last year we focused on two major things— community and connectivity,” Puckett said at the event. “Coming out of COVID, we knew we had to bring people back together. We feel we have done a great job with this. This year our focus has become, ‘Proud of our home.’ So, everything we are doing this year is intentional based on being proud of our community.” The city has been focusing on the Helena Forward Project and improvements at local parks early in the year, while the new Hillsboro Town Center is also part of that.

HELENA’S JOHNIGAN NAMED TO ALL-COUNTY GIRLS TEAM

A senior on the Helena girls basketball team, Olivia Johnigan earned a spot on this year’s All-County team for the Huskies as the team leader. Johnigan averaged 13.4 points per game as a senior, while she also totaled 5.9 rebounds per game. She has been a key leader for the Huskies for the last three years, including on last year’s Elite Eight team.

LOCAL RESIDENT CREATES LOGO FOR AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

Helena resident Erec Brown is a self-taught graphic designer who is seeking to inspire as he creates a logo for autism awareness month. As an autistic man, 23-year-old Brown taught himself how design art and logos and also serves as the founder and creator of his business, ErechBro-Looza, Inc. Brown, a graduate of Helena High School, also partook in the Falcon Flight Program, a functional life skills program that helps special education students in daily living, academic and self-determination skills.

BELLES HOST FINAL PACKING PARTY OF THE YEAR FOR VFS BACKPACK BUDDIES

One of their many good deeds for the year, the Helena Belles held their final packing party of the year for the VFS Backpack Buddies program. It is one of the many things the Belles do for other throughout the school year that are coming to an end with the 2022-2023 schoolyear winding down.

HELENA BOYS HAVE THREE NAMED TO ALL-COUNTY

TEAM

The Helena boys basketball team had three players named to this year’s All-County boys basketball team following an area championship season. Josh Williams earned a spot on the first team, finishing as the third best scorer in the county at 17.9 points per game, while Ian Johnigan was named to the third team after averaging 11.5 points per game. Owen Davis was also recognized on the honorable mention portion of the team.

BASKETBALL

In the News

NUNLEY WALK-OFF LOCKS UP PLAYOFF SPOT, WIN OVER CHILTON CEMENTS AREA TITLE

Helena’s Cam Nunley helped the Huskies’ baseball team cement a playoff spot this season when he hit a walk-off double against Calera in the second of a twogame series. It led to a 3-2 win in the game and a sweep of the Eagles. The following week, Helena beat Chilton County 6-1 to claim the area championship.

HMS STUDENTS HAVE ARTWORK INSPIRE AT HOLOCAUST MEMORIALS

Recently, students in Helena Middle School teacher Mallory Houston’s social studies class were given a moment to make the history they were studying much more personal by a local resident. Each year, Houston has her sixth graders participate in the Butterfly Project, an art project that allows the students to honor those killed in the Holocaust by creating butterflies in their name. This year, the school’s Twitter post about the project caught the eye of Jason Redd, a local civil engineer who has traveled to Warsaw, Poland one week a month over the past year for his job. He was able to take several of the projects to place them at Holocaust memorial sites.

HUSKIES WIN REGULAR-SEASON AREA CHAMPIONSHIP WITH 15-0 VICTORY AGAINST BRIARWOOD

Helena’s softball team once again has earned an area championship. Following last year’s run to the state championship game, the Huskies finished area play undefeated this season, shutting out Briarwood 15-0 in their final area game to complete the strong stretch and earn hosting rights for the area tournament before opening their postseason run.

HELENA UTILITY BOARD CHANGES FORMAT OF UTILITIES BILL

Residents of Helena are now receiving a new form of utility bill moving forward after the Helena Utility Board approved changing the format of the water bill. Instead of the postcard bill that has previously been mailed out, the city will now be mailing a bill inside an envelope. The change started with the April 1 billing cycle. The city asks for you to be aware of the change to avoid tossing it out on accident.

NEXT OLD TOWN LIVE EVENT COMING IN JUNE

Following the summer’s first Old Town Live in April, the city of Helena is gearing up for another successful show on June 10. The June portion of the event will feature the North Mississippi Allstars performing, while George Porter Jr. and Runnin’ Pardners will join for another fantastic free show at Ampitheater Park. Old Town Live will now take place each month the rest of the summer with Telluride performing July 3 and Cracker and Bloodking taking the stage Aug. 12.

In the News

HES HOLDS SPRING FLING EVENT

The annual Helena Elementary School Spring Fling took place again this year in April as a major fundraiser organized by the PTO. The event not only raised money through carnival wristbands, but a live auction also took place. The carnival featured plenty of fun with rides, food trucks, games and more.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SOFTBALL TEAM HOLDS ALL PRO DADS EVENT

The Helena Middle School softball team continued a special season on April 5 and put on a show in front of their dads and friends with their dads as well. It was part of the All Pro Dads night at Helena Middle School, as the players and students thanked their dads for all they do.

LOCAL STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS’ SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Helena students participated in one of the most special events each year put on by Shelby County Schools when they got to compete in the Special Olympics. Taking place at the end of March, the event brought together schools from across the county to participate, including those from Helena. The students got the royal treatment with a parade on their way to the event as well.

STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN E3 JURASSIC EVENT

Students from across Shelby County recently engaged in various activities during the E3 Goes Jurassic competition. The competition was held on March 8 and March 9 at the Shelby County Instructional Services building in Alabaster. Engaging Elementary Engineers, E3, was hosted by the Shelby County Schools gifted department and AMSTI specialists form the Montevallo Regional Inservice Center.

24/ 7 EYE EMERGENCY ROOM

Every spectrum of eye care.

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

See the di erence at uabcallahaneye.org.

ANNUAL HELENA BELLES TEA PARTY HAS ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL SEASON

The Helena Belles hosted their annual Tea Party again this season at the Church at Old Town and 50 girls participated as princesses alongside the Belles this year. The program not only featured snacks, dancing, crafts, a photo shoot and more, but it also helped raise close to $800 for the Shelby County School Needy Children’s Fund.

Update from THE COUNCIL

Chris Willis PLACE 1

Spring is in full bloom and along with that come so many exciting things around our community.

I hope you were able to catch the first concert in the Old Town Live Concert Series. If not, hopefully you will be able to catch one of the upcoming shows. Our HOT Board has put in countless hours to ensure a great time for the whole family.

The site for the new city center is progressing nicely and hopefully we will have a groundbreaking in the coming weeks. When fully developed, this will be a nice centerpiece to our town where all city services can be conveniently accessed along with shopping and eating establishments in one development.

Helena youth sports have had a successful spring, and if you are looking for some excitement in the evenings or on the weekends, come out and watch some of our communities’ young athletes compete with one another in baseball, soccer or softball.

This season our parks and recreation department is also trying a new league called rec plus where we will have kids from each of our park teams make up teams to travel the area and compete against our neighboring communities. This will give our kids some extra playing time as well as give them the ability to play with some kids with higher skill levels to help sharpen their skills.

On the public safety side, our police and fire department continue to do an amazing job. You should start seeing a second blue fire truck working in the city as well as several new police cars patrolling your neighborhoods.

We are truly blessed to live in one of the safest cities in the state thanks to the work of these professionals.

As school draws near the end and summer approaches, stop in and visit some of our local merchants and take advantage of some of our beautiful parks, including Lee Springs, Cahaba Lilly and Joe Tucker, or take a stroll down the Hillsboro Trail. You can also ride just up the road to Cahaba River Park and enjoy the beauty of the Cahaba River.

In closing, I would like to congratulate the graduating class of 2023 and wish them the best as they embark on their next chapter of life.

I hope everyone has a great summer!

GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY

WWatch out, Helena, another spring is upon us, and that means that major preparations are underway for the 2023 Summer Reading Program.

The library’s Summer Reading program begins at the end of this month on May 30, and the theme this year is “All Together Now.” For those who are not familiar, many public libraries nationwide offer a free program for kids of all ages encouraging reading during the summer.

programs and features at the library.

Storytime takes place each and every Tuesday and Thursday. This program is for preschoolers, and includes reading stories, fun songs and more. Miss Erin is a talented storyteller who would love to see your family at Storytime.

Library Director

Dan Dearing

Features include a reading challenge with goals and prizes, live programs with educational themes and some great crafts, storytimes, decorating and so much more! To participate, simply visit the library on May 30 or after, and the library staff will take care of the rest.

Now is the time to visit to obtain or update a library card, see what is new and learn about the many services available at our library, such as access to e-books, audiobooks and more.

The summer reading program in Helena includes teens and adults as well. The program for teens and adults is simple, requires very little commitment or paperwork, and is a great way to set an example for others. All you need to do is visit the library and read!

If you have questions about the summer reading program, feel free to call 205-664-8308, or check out the website at Cityofhelena.org, click on the Community tab, then click on Public Library.

In addition, May is filled with some great

Other programs include Mother’s Day Craft on Monday, May 8 at 5:30 p.m. to celebrate moms and kids who are 6 and under, a free seniors program on Wednesday, May 10 at 10:30 a.m. to meet other seniors in the community and make a dazzling suncatcher, the final book sale before summer on Thursday, May 18 and Saturday, May 20, LEGO Fun on Monday, May 22 from 5:30-6:30 p.m., and the always great event of checking out 10 books and getting a prize on Wednesday, May 24.

Also, make sure to go ahead and mark your calendar for many of the upcoming summer fun, much of which is highlighted below:

uTuesday, May 30 – Summer Reading Begins

uWednesday, June 7 – Animal Tales Program: 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

uMonday, June 12 – Teen/Tween Bingo! 2:30 p.m.

uWednesday, June 14 – McWane Science Center Program. 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

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

May’s Top Picks

NEVER NEVER

By Colleen Hoover and Tarryn Fisher | Adult Fiction

Charlie Wynwood and Silas Nash have been best friends since they could walk. They’ve been in love since the age of fourteen. But as of this morning...they are complete strangers. But the more they learn about the couple they used to be...the more they question why they were ever together to begin with.

LIVE LIFE IN CRESCENDO: YOUR MOST IMPORTANT WORK IS ALWAYS AHEAD OF YOU

By Stephen R. Covey and Cynthia Covey Haller | Adult Nonfiction

The Crescendo Mentality urges you to use whatever you have—your time, talents, skills, resources, gifts, passion, money, influence—to enrich the lives of people around you.

THE ROOTED LIFE: CULTIVATING HEALTH AND WHOLENESS THROUGH GROWING YOUR OWN FOOD

By Justin Rhodes | Adult Nonfiction

An inspiring and practical invitation to growing your own food and experience a more connected, sustainable lifestyle, no matter where you live or how much space you have.

THE HEADMASTER’S LIST

By Melissa De La Cruz | Young Adult

Friday night. The party of the summer. Four teens ride home together. Only one never makes it. Set against the glitz and glamour of an elite LA private school, this explosive YA thriller is an addictive mystery.

THE HOUSE SWAP

By Yvette Clark | Juvenile

In this heartwarming and funny story two girls, one American and one British, become friends and confidantes when their families swap houses for the summer.

THE LIBRARY FISH LEARNS TO READ

By Alyssa Satin Capucilli | Easy/Picture

Library Fish wants to read! She starts jumping out of her bowl to practice when the library closes at night. Can Library Fish become a reader all on her own?

Courage lives

Most people cannot even imagine what it feels like to watch a child take on a battle against cancer. The courage, strength and resilience our patients demonstrate every day is what inspires us to give our best. We are here when families need us the most, caring for their children and never giving up hope in their fight against cancer.

Learn more at ChildrensAL.org/cancer

JARRET SCOTT

Student at Helena High School and member of the Huskies’ baseball team

What age did you start playing baseball?

I can’t remember not playing with a baseball, but I was placed on my first team when I was 4 years old.

What do you enjoy most about playing the sport?

Practice....I enjoy working with my teammates and on my personal goals to be the best representation for Helena High School. I feel loving practice is the only way to really be a better player.

Who is your biggest role model in sports and why do they inspire you?

My teammate, Jake Crooks. The reason he inspires me is because his eyesight impacts his ability to play the game of baseball, but even though the odds are stacked against him, his faith, leadership, and determination allows him to be a successful pitcher and good role model for our team.

Similar question, but who inspires you outside of the sports world?

My dad. He taught me the importance of good habits, why loving practice is so important, and how to face struggles with the right kind of attitude.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Helena baseball team?

Our schedule. We face tough competition and I feel that only makes our team better.

What are your goals when it comes to playing baseball?

My number one goal is to always be remembered at Helena High School as a successful baseball player. My other goals include being Area Champs all four years of high school and earning at least one State Championship before I graduate.

What else do you enjoy outside of baseball?

Being a part of the Helena Football Team, playing golf with my dad, watching Helena Basketball.

What is something unique about you?

I am a Type 1 diabetic, which has its challenges, but is something I work through on a daily basis.

MATTHEW JORDAN

Helena High School graduate and current student and Fulbright winner at Drake University

Why did you decide to attend Drake University, and specifically, why did you choose to focus on the Japanese language while there?

When I made it to the college level, I knew I wanted to branch out beyond what my primary education offered and study something that was not a romance language. I was already a big fan of Japanese pop culture growing up and had read a lot of history about pre-modern China and Japan.

How did you hear about the Fulbright Program?

I learned about it through a classmate who applied and was accepted to a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant position in Taiwan. From that point, I contacted Drake’s Fulbright advisor, Professor Karen Leroux, who was absolutely amazing. She mentored me through every step of the process and made things absolutely as smooth as possible. I wouldn’t have managed it all without her constant assistance.

What was the application and waiting process like?

I have been working on my application non-stop since last summer. I only submitted it in October, so it was a pretty nerve-wracking process to follow that much work up with about three months of total silence while we waited for results.

What did you end up being awarded with as a finalist for the program?

I received a Japanese study/research grant through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program for the 2023-2034 academic year.

What will you do now that you’ve earned this opportunity?

This will be an amazing jumpstart to my academic career. I’ll get the opportunity to spend 10 months in Japan. I intend to pursue a doctorate in East Asian religious and philosophical studies, so the opportunity to spend 10 months in Japan conducting my own research is genuinely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for an undergraduate like me.

Now that you are officially going to Japan with this opportunity, what are you expecting?

I hope to enjoy myself. Japan is an absolutely beautiful place with so much rich history. I hope I will get the chance to polish up my conversational Japanese, and most of all I hope I will get to immerse myself in my local area and make some lasting connections both socially and academically that I will be able to have always, even after I return from Japan. I am also looking forward to just getting to live in a totally new setting for a while It is a pretty big move from Helena to Japan, and I am excited to get involved in clubs and teams from my host university, and to have the opportunity to brush up on my photography in an absolutely breathtaking place.

City Hall Faces

Meet Brandon Henderson

City of Helena Parks and Recreation

An employee for the city of Helena for a little more than five years, Brandon Henderson works in the city’s Parks and Rec department to help both indoor and outdoor sports go as smooth and safe as possible. He currently marks off baseball and football fields for youth sports and runs the city’s football and basketball games, while also making sure that the parks are clean and safe for everyone. “What I enjoy about my job is being outside and being hands on with the youth sports, getting everything ready and looking good for our youth sporting events,” Henderson said. He also works to help prepare for city events that take place at Helena Amphitheater and is set for a busy spring and summer. Outside of work, he enjoys the quality of life in the city. One of his favorite events to attend each year is the Christmas tree lighting, while he also enjoys Helena’s Independence Day Celebration. “The scenery in Helena is beautiful with all of the different parks and trails,” he said. “I have four children ranging from elementary to middle school, so I spend a lot of time at the ball fields watching and coaching my kids in any sport they choose, which is my favorite.”

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

Peter Haywood

A lifelong resident of Helena, Peter Haywood has seen the city from the start of school to now splitting time as a student and employee in the city. As a student at Helena High School, he is the Student Body President and also serves as the president of the Helena Teen Council. Outside of being a senior in high school set to graduate in May, he also spends his time working and volunteering in the city. He currently works as a supervisor at the Helena Chick-fil-A, while he volunteers with the Buck Creek Festival Planning Committee. Haywood said volunteering is a passion of his, and is something he will carry with him as he plans to head to UAB for college. With so many great memories

in the city, he said it’s challenging to find one thing he loves, which is partly what makes the city so special. “I can not point out one specific thing I love most about Helena because the city is so great,” Haywood said. “Although, I can’t name one part I love most, a few things I enjoy are the feeling of community, the beauty of the city and the opportunities that Helena has for people like myself.” A member of the Helena Teen Council for the last three years, Haywood has grown a love for city government and said it has been exciting to work with city officials the last few years to fully understand how to make a city like Helena as special as it is.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Helena High School’s Elite 8 seniors are leaders in the school and community

STEPHEN DAWKINS | PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES

COVID disrupted many aspects of our lives, and it was no different for the students, teachers and administration at Helena High School. Knowing that relationships and organizations needed to be rebuilt, Principal Ashley Bahr met with the Student Government Association and other leadership groups about what could be done.

Among those that were instrumental in this work were this year’s Elite 8 seniors. “This group of students is exceptional,” Bahr said. “They are well-rounded, dedicated, involved, and overall a great representation of Helena High School.”

SYDNEY RISCH – VALEDICTORIAN

What will you miss most about high school?

I will miss SGA the most. I have been a part of it all four years, and it’s really become like my second family.

What is your best memory of high school?

My best memory is Homecoming Week every year. Seeing all the grades unite and compete against each other in class Olympics was great.

What makes Helena High School special?

The teachers absolutely are what make HHS so special, and without them, we would be nowhere.

Which teacher or administrator has been particularly influential for you?

Coach (Chris) Galloway has been the most influential teacher for me. He was my AP World teacher in ninth grade, and even with COVID he

still made sure all his students were prepared for the AP test. And even in the following years, I’ve always been able to go to his class with questions and he would help guide me.

What advice do you have for underclassmen?

I would tell underclassmen to get involved. Being a part of a group in high school really gives you a sense of belonging and makes it a lot of fun.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate, I plan to attend Auburn University and pursue a degree in chemistry education.

What are you looking forward to experiencing after graduation?

I am looking forward to being on my own and experiencing all the things college has to offer.

What will you miss most about high school?

I’m going to miss all of my peers and teachers that I’ve grown close to in the past four years.

What is your best memory of high school?

My best memory of high school would be senior homecoming week. Being able to celebrate homecoming one more time before leaving high school was super special and bittersweet.

GABRIEL MERCHANT

Clark have been super influential for me during high school.

What advice do you have for underclassmen?

Don’t change for anyone! High school is all about finding your true self and finding friends who support you no matter what—don’t settle for anything less.

What are your plans after graduation?

What makes Helena High School special?

Helena is special because of how closely connected the student body is. When everyone knows everyone, school is better for all of the students.

Which teacher or administrator has been particularly influential for you?

Both Ms. Lindsey Watson and Sra. Fabyanna

I plan to attend Auburn University and study environmental science. I hope to use my degree to become an environmental lawyer.

What are you looking forward to experiencing after graduation?

I am most excited to experience what it’s like to live on my own. While I am nervous to live two hours away, I’m excited to see what living on my own will teach me about both adult life and myself.

SETH FARNHAM

What will you miss most about high school?

I’ll miss getting to see and talk to my friends nearly every day. I’ve grown so close to so many people, and it hurts knowing I won’t be able to spend as much time with them in college.

What is your best memory of high school?

The 12 Angry Men play. Lots of my friends were in it, and they gave incredible performances on top of an already intriguing play.

Which teacher or administrator has been particularly influential for you?

My eighth grade English teacher, Mrs. Miller. She truly cared about everyone in her classes individually and put her all into each and every lesson.

What makes Helena High School special?

The environment. It’s a very welcoming and accepting community, and anyone can feel right at home here.

What advice do you have for underclassmen?

Enjoy yourself in high school. These will be the best years of your life, make the most of them and balance your time between social and educational responsibilities.

What are your plans after graduation?

I’m going to the University of Montevallo to major in computer science.

What are you looking forward to experiencing after graduation?

I’m really looking forward to meeting new people at college. It will offer a blank slate for me.

MAGGIE DILLAHUNTY

What will you miss most about high school?

I will miss being able to see great friends and amazing teachers every day.

What is your best memory of high school?

I loved being able to play with Mrs. Melissa Copeland’s snake, Luna, all the time freshman year.

What makes Helena High School special?

Helena is big enough to experience various activities and specialized classes, yet still small enough where the teachers and administrators know you personally and you don’t feel lost in the crowd.

Which teacher or administrator has been particularly influential for you?

Sra. Clark and Coach Galloway have both been very influential to me. Sra. Clark is super energetic and such a fun teacher to have. She cares for her students and takes interest in getting to know you

and what’s happening in your life. Coach Galloway has a super dry sense of humor and you can never tell if he’s serious or not, which makes my day. He literally knows everything and will help you with all of your homework. I have had him for lead all four years and have loved hanging out with him.

What advice do you have for underclassmen?

Get involved! There are so many clubs and activities that cater toward all interests.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to attend Mississippi State University and study animal sciences with a concentration in pre-vet. After I graduate, I plan to go to vet school and specialize in large animal medicine.

What are you looking forward to experiencing after graduation?

I am really excited to meet new people and to get involved in campus life at college.

LARKIN WATTERS

What will you miss most about high school?

I will miss running cross country and track.

What is your best memory of high school?

My best memory of high school is playing frisbee at cross country practice.

What makes Helena High School special?

The teachers care and do everything they can to help you.

Which teacher or administrator has been particularly influential for you?

Coach Richard Anderson was my track and cross country coach for two years and my history teacher

sophomore year. He worked hard as a coach and teacher, and you could tell he loved doing both.

What advice do you have for underclassmen?

Be nice to your teachers. They work hard every day to be there for us and want to help you.

What are your plans after graduation?

I’m studying mechanical engineering at the University of Alabama Huntsville.

What are you looking forward to experiencing after graduation?

I’m looking forward to the next few years in college.

MARISA MCGRAW

What will you miss most about high school?

I’m really going to miss the tight-knit community we have at Helena. Everyone here is so friendly, and you really feel a sense of belonging here.

What is your best memory of high school?

Senior prom was for sure one of my favorite memories. It was so much fun getting to get all dressed up and dance and hang out with friends.

What makes Helena High School special?

You never feel like an outcast here. Despite the size of the school, the administration and teachers really make you feel at home and you get a sense of togetherness here.

Which teacher or administrator has been particularly influential for you?

Mrs. DeLeisa Lowery for sure. I had her for honors biology freshman year and for AP

What will you miss most about high school?

I will miss having lunch with my best friends every day.

What is your best memory of high school?

My best memory of high school was my 11th grade art table.

What makes Helena High School special?

Helena High School is special because there are so many ways to get involved in the school.

Which teacher or administrator has been particularly influential for you?

Mrs. Sommer Simpson has always been influential to me because she listens to her students in a way that makes me feel heard and understood. Also, Mrs. Spring McKinney has been the most

biology my junior year. She was always so goofy and fun to be around.

What advice do you have for underclassmen?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and participate in things. This is your chance to really get involved with Helena, and there are so many opportunities offered to you at this school.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to attend Auburn University in the fall and majoring in organismal biology. I plan on getting my masters in biology or education. My goal is to become a high school biology teacher.

What are you looking forward to experiencing after graduation?

The college lifestyle and the experiences that come with it. I want to experience being a part of a larger university, and a larger student body.

attentive and helpful teacher I have had. I aspire to teach like her. She is so passionate about her job, and it showed every day.

What advice do you have for underclassmen?

My advice to underclassmen would be to get involved as much as possible and don’t be afraid to talk to new people.

What are your plans after graduation?

I am going to Auburn University to get a degree in education.

What are you looking forward to experiencing after graduation?

I am excited about moving in with my best friend in Auburn, but I’m mostly looking forward to getting through college and starting to teach.

OLIVIA MARTIN

What will you miss most about high school?

I will miss the friends that I’ve made over the past 12 years.

What is your best memory of high school?

My favorite memory is being crowned homecoming king earlier this year.

What makes Helena High School special?

What makes Helena special is the community here. It feels like there are so many ways to get involved, and I think that’s important for a school to have.

Which teacher or administrator has been particularly influential for you?

Mrs. Michele Justement was the teacher that influenced me the most. Her class was tough, but I feel like it really prepared me for college and made me a better student.

What advice do you have for underclassmen?

Make the most out of your time in school. Get involved in clubs, go to the dances, go hang out with your friends. You only get four years in high school, and it is what you make of it. Now is the time to explore different avenues and find hobbies that you enjoy.

What are your plans after graduation?

I’m going to Auburn University and will major in either aerospace engineering or software engineering.

What are you looking forward to experiencing after graduation?

I’m looking forward to the freedom in college. I also look forward to the things I’ll learn in college because physics, mathematics and programming interests me.

LOVE OF THE GAME

Helena resident Mary McLendon shines in wheelchair basketball

BY LAUREN SEXTON

PHOTOS BY BUTCH DILL AND CONTRIBUTED

MMaintaining the balance of being a studentathlete is no easy task. Practices, games, school and physical stress are a lot for a high schooler to deal with. However, achieving the honor of playing at a collegiate level makes all the difficulties worth it in the end.

Helena senior Mary McLendon is not new to facing adversity. From a young age, McLendon has been using a wheelchair for cerebral palsy since she was diagnosed as a child. Yet, McLendon has never once let an obstacle define her. She’s embraced who she is and has now become one of

the best wheelchair basketball players in the country.

“Growing up with a child with a disability is figuring out how things are going to work and working through that. Our faith has helped us get through all of it,” Mary’s father Brian McLendon said.

Mary has had many obstacles to overcome before and during her time as a wheelchair basketball player. However, the family’s faith in God and strength have guided them through their journey.

“Our faith in God has gotten us through a lot,” Brian said. “With what she’s had to go through growing up, she’s had to have multiple surgeries. “

Mary’s career started off in a different direction, the now University of Alabama wheelchair basketball commit began her athletic journey as a swimmer at the Lakeshore Foundation.

“I started swimming at Lakeshore at the age of nine,” she said. “I had some people come up to me and just say, ‘We also have wheelchair basketball as an option if you wanted to do that.’ I went and tried it out and liked it.”

Longing to be a part of a team, transitioning from swimming to basketball was an easy decision for McLendon and her family.

“She felt like she should go into practice by herself and do it all that by herself,” Brian said. “She wanted something where there was a team, and she saw that basketball was a better option for her.”

Being able to try different types of sports is one of the many things made possible by the Lakeshore Foundation. The foundation helps youth with disabilities get involved in adaptive sports.

“It originally started as a physical rehabilitation type,” Brian said. “The Lakeshore foundation is set up for senior adults to do rehab. Then, they started doing more and more activities that included youth sports for people with disabilities. They have track and field, swimming, basketball

and rugby, but it’s also a wheelchair task board as well. Recently, they had a wheelchair football team.”

For a young Mary, being able to hav e access to a facility that offers different types of sports for people with disabilities has been a great experience for her as an athlete.

“It’s been a blessing really,” Mary said. “Not everybody has access to that facility, and it’s really nice to have that.”

Although the foundation has been an incredible asset to people with disabilities who want to participate in adaptive sports, there is an unfortunate lack of other adaptive sports teams within the state of Alabama.

“The problem with being here or being in a wheelchair sport is there are not a lot of teams

within a certain state,” Brian said. “You end up going and playing other state teams from across the country.”

While there are some downfalls with having to spend time traveling across the country to compete against other wheelchair basketball teams, Mary sees the bright side of getting to meet new people from the sport.

“We’ve traveled all over the country,” Mary said. “I’ve met really awesome people. I’ve met one of my best friends in the whole world. It’s been a really great experience. There have been so many different opportunities and many people that I’ve met that I probably wouldn’t have met if I didn’t have CPE. It’s been more of a blessing than a curse.”

Being the parent of a child who has been

diagnosed with a disability from the age of 18 months has had its challenges; however, sharing the love of basketball and seeing his daughter be able to accomplish so many milestones in her athletic career has made the journey special for Brian.

“Our favorite games are when she was playing in a smaller league called Prep,” he said. “Mary is a girl playing in a co-ed League. She got an opportunity in the SEC championship. She got fouled with a few seconds left in the game, and it was tied. She had to go to the free throw, and she hit both of her free throws, and they won the SEC championship in the Prep League.”

Unlike some other sports, Mary McLendon believes that wheelchair basketball is a sport that she gains strength from. That in many cases, it is one of the tougher sports to be a part of.

“It makes you tougher than if you are playing stand-up,” she said. “You’re playing against girls most of the time, but when you are playing with guys it gives you a lot more experience and pushes you a little bit more. It prepares you for the next level.”

A lot of her competitive nature comes from

competing against her twin brother, Will, a local firefighter in Shelby County.

“She’s very aggressive for a girl, and they weren’t really sure what to do with her,” Brian recalled.

“She’s competed against boys all the time.”

Mary McLendon’s competitive nature has earned the wheelchair basketball player many accolades and awards. The National Wheelchair Basketball Association Academic First Team AllAmerican, the Pioneer Classic Female most outstanding 3.5 classification and the Big Peach Slam Jam Women’s 3 Point Champion are just a few of McLendon’s accolades.

With her career beginning as an athlete for the University of Alabama, McLendon has her sights set on her future. “I’m hoping to make the Paralympic team in the future,” Mary said. “I wanted to do something in sports medicine as far as a job.”

Yet all of this couldn’t have been possible without her strength, faith and perseverance above all else. While her journey has been a long and trying one, she has handled it with bravery.

“If you want to get somewhere, put in the work. You can’t go anywhere you want by doing nothing,” she said. “Put in the work and it’s going to pay off eventually.”

“If you want to get somewhere, put in the work. You can’t go anywhere you want by doing nothing. Put in the work and it’s going to pay off eventually”

- MARY MCLENDON

RIVALRIES IN BLOOM

THE HELENA/PELHAM RIVALRY IS ONE OF THE BEST IN THE STATE, AND THERE WAS NO SHORTAGE OF COMPETITION BETWEEN THE TWO THIS SPRING SEASON AS THEY COMPETED AGAINST ONE ANOTHER IN SEVERAL SPORTS

PHOTOS FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES AND LARRY DANCY

VESTAVIA HILLS VS. HELENA SOFTBALL

1. Hannah Williams and Marlee Parsons

2. Amelia Powell and Harley Morrison

3. Megan Beard and Rico Spisto

4. Carrie Middlebrooks

5. Samantha Justice and Lily Abernathy

6. Tatum Cooper and Sadie Meadows

7. Staci Grayden

8. Henley Traywhick and Lilly Sanderson

9. Jaida Holyzclaw

PHOTOS BY LIZZIE BOWEN

Helena High School took on Vestavia Hills High School on Tuesday, April 4 for a Helena home game.

Marketplace

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Blast from the past

Old Town Helena

I love everything about Old Town Helena. Before I moved to Helena in 2017, I visited my girlfriend, now wife, here for many years. I remember my first time visiting a Buck Creek Festival, and experiencing my first duck race and Depot Burger really got me hooked on Helena. I continue to fall in love with Old Town as it continues to grow with local vendors and the many events hosted in the area. The decorating of the pergola for Fall and Christmas are always a family favorite for our home!

MY HELENA JEREMY RAINES

Top-notch education

Helena’s schools

As a new father, education is a big deal to me. I am excited to see Helena’s school system consistently receive high rankings and offer quality opportunities and education to the local students.

Small town holidays

Christmas in Helena

One of the first event(s) I covered in Helena as a photographer was the annual “Christmas in Helena” event(s). This annual Christmas tree lighting and parade always reminds me of a scene in a Hallmark movie, and my family always enjoys the opportunity to join in on this tradition.

Shelby County’s best burger

The Depot

I may be a bit biased, but I believe The Depot offers the best burger in Shelby County and one of the top burgers in the Greater Birmingham Region. In addition to the food, the back porch view and staff hospitality are top notch!

Rare but beautiful Occasional Snow

Growing up in the Wiregrass Region of Alabama, I never received many opportunities to see snow. Since moving to Helena, I’ve had a couple chances to see a good bit of snow. As a photographer, this is always a treat to see –especially in Old Town!

Helena resident and photographer who works with Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging