H E LEN A THE MAGAZINE
DANCING TO THE TOP
REGAN LANDRY SHINES ON THE NATIONAL STAGE
HELENA FLAVOR
LOCALS SAMPLE HIGHLIGHT DISHES FROM THE COMMUNITY
BAILEIGH RUMAGE LEADS THE HUSKIES GOAL GETTER
City Leadership
A letter from the mayor
A Season of Renewal and Momentum in Helena
Spring has officially arrived, and I hope each of you enjoyed a refreshing and meaningful spring break with family and friends. This time of year always brings a sense of renewal and hope, and I’m thankful for the many ways we continue to see blessings unfold across our city. To say there are a few things going on in Helena right now would truly be an understatement.
We’ve recently moved our administrative team and utilities staff into the new municipal building. This has
been a long-anticipated step forward, made possible through patience, teamwork and the commitment of many who care deeply about Helena’s future. We are looking forward to hosting our first city council meeting in the new chambers on April 13 at 6 p.m., and we are hopeful to have the Senior Center up and running by the end of the month. These new spaces will help us serve our residents more effectively while creating opportunities for connection and community.
None of these events would be possible without the many volunteers who faithfully give their time and energy to serve Helena.”
We are also thankful to see continued progress on important infrastructure improvements. The new turn lane at Highway 17 and Highway 58 is now complete and open, helping improve traffic flow and safety. In the months ahead, Shelby County has several additional projects planned that will benefit Helena residents, including repaving portions of Highway 17 from Kent Dairy Road in Alabaster to near Rocky Ridge Drive in Helena, restriping on Highway 52 West, Helena Parkway, extending the thru lane and adding a right-turn lane at Highway 52 and South Shades Crest Road, and continued upgrades to traffic signal equipment at key intersections. While these projects may not always be the most visible, they represent meaningful stewardship and preparation for the growth that lies ahead.
Our Farmers Market returns on May 2, offering fresh local goods and a wonderful opportunity to connect with neighbors. And on May 16, we will gather for our Spring Sports Closing Ceremony to honor our youth athletes and celebrate the dedication, perseverance, and teamwork they demonstrated throughout the season.
I encourage each of you to come out and be part of these special moments. None of these events would be possible without the many volunteers who faithfully give their time and energy to serve Helena. Their servant hearts truly reflect the strength and spirit of our community.
Mayor Billy Rosener
Spring in Helena also means the return of the events and traditions that bring our community together. Old Town LIVE will kick off its season on April 25 with The Band of Heathens, supported by Cole Spain.
I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to serve alongside you. I truly believe Helena’s best days are still ahead. With faith, unity and a shared commitment to one another, we can continue building a brighter future for our families and for generations to come.
I look forward to seeing you around town this spring.
Together, we can build a brighter future for Helena!
In this issue
FEATURES
20 Leading the charge
Baileigh Rumage brings skill, leadership and passion to HHS soccer
26 Stepping into the spotlight
Regan Landry wins national title with NMCC dance
34 Serving up Helena Taste of Helena brings the community together one bite at a time
Sydney
PHOTOGRAPHY
Jeremy
Noah
Rachel
Rhett
ON THE COVER
Photo by Jeremy Raines Cover Design by Morgan Lockhart
Utilities and Services
Cable, Internet and Phone
uAT&T Uverse – 1-888-708-0934 att.com
uSpectrum – 1-855-707-7328 spectrum.com
uC-Spire, Fiber Internet – 1-855-277-4735 cspire.com
Gas
uSpire – 1-800-292-4008 spireenergy.com
Power
uAlabama Power Company – 1-800-245-2244 alabamapower.com
Trash Services
uRepublic Services – (205) 631-1313 republicservices.com
Water and Sewer
uHelena Utilities City Water Service (205) 663-1670
LOCAL SCHOOLS
uShelby County Board of Education – (205) 682-7000
shelbyed.k12.al.us/
uHelena Elementary School – (205) 682-5540 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes/index.htm
uHelena Intermediate School – (205) 682-5520
shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/his/index.htm
uHelena Middle School – (205) 682-5300 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hlms/index.htm
uHelena High School – (205) 682-3650 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs/index.html
uHillsboro School - (205) 864-7330 thehillsboroschool.org
We want to hear from you!
Do you have an issue that City Hall needs to know about? Please use the City Action Center at cityofhelena.org to get a resolution to your neighborhood issue.
City Government
Billy Rosener
brosener@cityofhelena.org
chammann@ cityofhelena.org
ahealy@ cityofhelena.org
dwilson@ cityofhelena.org
bdodson@ cityofhelena.org
jmcdaniels@ cityofhelena.org
Departments
City Hall (205) 663-2161
Fire Department (205) 663-5809
Sports Complex (205) 620-2877
mharris@ cityofhelena.org
Library (205) 664-8308
Police (205) 663-6499
Utilities (205) 663-1670
VARSITY SOFTBALL VS SPAIN PARK
APRIL 14
4:30 P.M.
Helena High School
Helena hosts Spain Park on the diamond to close out the regular season. Support the Huskies as they turn their attention to postseason play.
THE GUIDE
APRIL 20
VARSITY SOCCER VS MOODY
5:30 P.M.
Helena High School
The HHS varsity boys and girls soccer teams have their final home matches of the regular season against Moody on April 20. Come cheer on the Huskies on the pitch.
APRIL 25
OLD TOWN LIVE
5:30 P.M.
School and offices
The 2026 edition of Helena’s beloved concert series will kick off with a show put on by The Band of Heathens and Cole Spain.
AROUND TOWN
EVERY TUESDAY | 9:30 A.M.
Senior silver sneakers workout classes
EVERY FRIDAY | 9:30 A.M. Senior gentle yoga
EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY 11 A.M.
Storytime at the Library
APRIL 2 | 3 P.M.
HHS tennis at Hoover
APRIL 2 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity softball vs Chelsea
APRIL 2 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity soccer vs Hueytown
APRIL 2 | 7 P.M.
Varsity baseball at Pelham
APRIL 3 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity softball vs Thorsby
APRIL 4 | 9:30 A.M. EASTER EGG HUNT
APRIL 4 | 11 A.M.
Varsity softball vs Elmore County
APRIL 5 | ALL DAY Easter
APRIL 7 | 3 P.M.
HHS tennis vs Hueytown
APRIL 7 | 5:30 P.M.
Varsity soccer vs McAdory
APRIL 7 | 6:30 P.M.
Varsity baseball at Chelsea
APRIL 9 | 3 P.M.
HHS tennis at Homewood
APRIL 9 | 7 P.M.
Varsity baseball vs Chelsea
APRIL 13 | 4:30 P.M.
Varsity softball vs Chelsea
APRIL 13 | 6 P.M. City Council meeting
APRIL 14 | 4:30 P.M. Varsity softball vs Spain Park
APRIL 14 | 5:30 P.M. Varsity soccer at Hueytown
APRIL 14 | 6:30 P.M. Varsity baseball at Spain Park
APRIL 16 | 6 P.M. Planning & Zoning Committee meeting
APRIL 16 | 6 P.M. Varsity baseball vs Spain Park
APRIL 20 | 5:30 P.M. Varsity soccer vs Moody
APRIL 21 | 4:30 P.M. Varsity softball at Chilton County
APRIL 23 | 5 P.M. Varsity softball vs Oxford
APRIL 24 | ALL DAY Students out at Shelby County Schools
APRIL 25 | 5:30 P.M. Old Town Live
APRIL 27 | 6 P.M. City Council meeting
APRIL 28 | 4 P.M. Municipal Court
APRIL 30 | 5 P.M. Varsity softball at Brookwood
MARCH 19
VARSITY BASEBALL VS SPAIN PARK
6 P.M. Helena High School
The Huskies close out the regular season of the first year of the Mitch Moreland era at home against the Jaguars. Come out and support them.
HELENA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Monday, APRIL 13 & 27
PRE-COUNCIL AT 5 P.M.,
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 6 P.M.
HELENA CITY HALL
Helena’s City Council meetings take place the second and fourth Mondays of the month. Helena City Council meetings are open to the public and offer the chance for you to get involved in the planning of your community.
In the News
HELENA FD UNVEILS NEW AMBULANCE
The department has added a new ambulance to its fleet, improving the emergency response services it is able to provide for the community.
HHS WRESTLERS RECOGNIZED AT COUNCIL MEETING
DaShawn McClain and Caden Swinford were honored by the Helena City Council and Mayor Billy Rosener for the success they had for the Huskies this season.
HELENA RECOGNIZES DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH
Joe Gelinas, Davis Kelley, Brayden Dockery and Jake Holderfield signed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. These four players represent head coach Mitch Moreland’s first group of signees.
HELENA UTILITY BOARD APPROVES RATE INCREASE
The board voted to approve a rate increase at its meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 17, following a presentation on Thursday, Feb. 12. The change will go into effect in April.
HELENA RECOGNIZES WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
The Helena City Council acknowledged March as Women’s History Month during its March 10 meeting.
AINSLEY SCHULTZ HIRED AS HHS VOLLEYBALL COACH
Schultz was selected to fill the volleyball head coaching vacancy at HHS on Feb. 19.
HHS MATH TEAM PLACES SECOND AT COUNTY COMPETITION
The advanced and algebra 1 teams placed second, and the algebra 2 and geometry teams placed third at the Shelby County Schools competition.
ABIGAIL PARSONS HONORED AT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The council honored Helena High School pole vaulter Abigail Parsons for her third-place finish at the indoor championship meet.
HELENA HONORS FORMER POLICE CHIEF BRAD FLYNN
BY DANIEL LOCKE
Brad Flynn, the former chief of the Helena Police Department, retired from his position last year, but the lasting impact he has left on the department continues to be felt.
Flynn was originally hired to Helena PD as a parttime dispatcher by late chief Ray Rollan in 1995. In 1998, he established the Helena Police Explorers, a program that continues to teach teenagers about careers in law enforcement to this day.
Flynn served in a variety of roles, including patrol officer, traffic homicide investigator, narcotics
investigator, detective and SWAT operator and commander. He assumed the role of chief in 2020.
Bringing awareness and understanding of sensory and invisible disabilities was a priority for Flynn during his time as chief, and Helena was the first municipality to be recognized by Kulture City as sensory-inclusive certified as a result.
Mayor Billy Rosener and the City Council recognized Flynn for his service in December, honoring his 30-year commitment to the city of Helena.
RECOGNIZING SSAM
CONTRIBUTED BY SAFE HOUSE
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time grounded in the idea that knowledge empowers communities. It reminds us that open conversation brings to light to areas of society that have sat in darkness too long, and that survivors do not have to suffer in silence.
This month invites us to face hard and complex truths about sexual assault and our society. One of those truths is that sexual assault can happen to anyone of any age, race, creed, color, economic status or orientation. Another is that most people know their attacker. An even more surprising fact is that 80 percent of women and 43 percent of men have encountered some type of sexual harassment or sexual assault in their lives.
April gives us a chance to not only acknowledge these realities that are so often pushed to the back of our minds, but to face them head-on and stand up for those in our community who are victimized. It gives us the opportunity to care for those around us. It gives survivors a fighting chance and shows them they aren’t alone.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month highlights the lawmakers, public servants and agencies that continuously support survivors to give them a voice. In what seems like a dark and lonely sea, they are there to be a lighthouse for victims. They are also there to illuminate our strengths and needs as a community. Fortunately, we have these lighthouses in our very own community.
Update from THE COUNCIL
Jeff McDaniels
HELENA CITY COUNCIL, PLACE 5
Within four months of this term, I am excited about the opportunity to work with my council colleagues, you and Mayor Rosener to restore transparency, enact meaningful legislation and add value to our quality of life. Some examples of our work to date: updating the Civil Service Act (CSA) which was more than 30 years old, strengthening our ordinances and procedures, linking our public service to more measurable outcomes for the community and setting a foundation for revenue, expenditures and the reserve fund. Our largest source of revenue is sales taxes which is nearly 52 percent of our general fund budget. The challenge with sales tax revenue is that it is subject to market volatility and consumer patterns. Despite the potential risks associated with sales tax revenue, the city of Helena is ripe for a wider range of dining experiences and small retail businesses. If we can retain a higher percentage of sales taxes that are currently lost to surrounding municipalities, we can budget and plan for deferred maintenance, infrastructure improvements, additional police officers and firefighters, public works employees and so on.
We have a quality of life that sets us apart from many of the surrounding municipalities. We have a median household income of approximately $109,000, exceptional property values, 380 or
so businesses, access to the Cahaba River, parks and a recreational facility, good public schools, but an annual operating budget of $15.9 million.
The previous administrations expanded our city limits by annexing an additional 35 miles or so into our police jurisdiction, authorized the development of thousands of single-family homes and now we have the shared responsibility of developing solutions for those decisions. There is a consensus amongst councilors and Mayor Rosener that our decisions will include better budget forecasting, capturing revenue leakage and using our decision making authority in a way that makes you proud.
In closing, we are seeking your participation in this democratic process—as subject matter experts, ordinary citizens who want the best for our city, by attending meetings and by holding us accountable for our actions. Some of the items we will begin to explore in the near future: revisions to our comprehensive plan, amendments to our zoning ordinance, business recruitment efforts by our Industrial Development Board and determining the best approach to address our sports and leisure needs.
God bless,
Jeff McDaniels
Library Update
GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY
TThe city and library would like to invite you to visit soon! Helena is a busy town with people of all ages on the move. The library is a great destination no matter what you have going on, and we hope everyone continues to visit and read.
Check out these great events at the library!
National Library Week – April 19-25 –Sponsored by Vulcan Materials – Helena Quarry Bingo Challenge – Monday, April 20 through Saturday, April 25. Complete a Bingo Card and get a prize! (Ages 3+)
Library Director
Dan Dearing
We are very pleased to announce that Vulcan Materials Helena Quarry is sponsoring National Library Week. The grant will be used to provide books about science, technology, engineering, art, and math. During the week of April 19 through 25, there will be some great activities. For many years, Vulcan Materials has been a reliable community partner in providing quality library services to Helena residents. We want to thank them for this generous donation.
In order to check out the books the grant provided, or any of the other great books in the library collection, residents need a library card. If you are a Shelby County resident, getting a library card is important and easy. All you need to do is visit the library with your photo ID and proof of residence. If your current street address is on your driver’s license, simply bring that with you. If you are under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must sign for you to get a library card. Ask them to do so!
Lego Fun! – Monday, April 20, from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. Join us for a fun time of building LEGO creations while meeting new friends! (Ages 3+)
Board Game Fun! – Wednesday, April 20, from 4 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. – Please join us for an evening of playing board games! (Parents must accompany children under 12)
Gem Dig – Thursday, April 23, from 4:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Excavate a small sand block and learn the unique characteristics of the gem inside. (Ages 6+)
Stop by soon to grab a calendar of upcoming events. Have a great April, and hope to see you soon at the Jane B. Holmes Library!
Jane B. Holmes Public Library
230 Tucker Road Helena, AL 35080
Phone: (205) 664-8308
Facebook: Helena.Public.Library.Friends
Website: cityofhelena.org/public-library
Instagram: @helenalibrary
Please visit the library soon, - Daniel Dearing, library director
March Top Picks
THE CORRESPONDENT
By Virginia Evans | Adult Fiction
Filled with knowledge that only comes from a life fully lived, The Correspondent is a gem of a novel about the power of finding solace in literature and connection with people we might never meet in person.
DINKY THE TINYSAUR
By Maggie Edkins Willis | Easy/Picture
An oversized dinosaur named Dinky helps two siblings discover that a person’s heart matters more than their appearance in this delightful picture book.
HOW TECHNOLOGY WORKS: FROM MONSTER TRUCKS TO MARS ROVERS
By DK | Juvenile Nonfiction
Make technology fun, fascinating and accessible with this inspiring guide for children aged 9+ that explains the machinery of everyday life.
PARENTING ANXIETY: BREAKING THE CYCLE OF WORRY AND RAISING RESILIENT KIDS
By Meredith Elkins, PhD | Adult Nonfiction
A timely, practical and innovative look at the relationship between parent and child anxiety, with actionable strategies to help parents break the cycle.
LEADER OF THE PACK (SCRAPPER SERIES)
By Cam Higgins | Juvenile
Meet Scrapper, a puppy full of imagination and high-energy hijinks, in the first book of a brand-new chapter book series. With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, the Scrapper chapter book series is perfect for emerging readers.
THE WEEKEND GARDENER: WEEKEND PROJECTS AND EVERYDAY INSPIRATION FOR THE BUSY GARDENER
By Henry Agg | Adult Nonfiction
The Weekend Gardener is your beginner’s DIY guide to creating your dream garden.
Sports
IVAN SANCHEZ
Helena High School soccer forward and captain
Tell me a bit about yourself and some information you might share when you first meet someone.
My name is Ivan Sanchez, and I’m a senior at Helena High School. I play as a forward for the Helena Huskies soccer team. Soccer has become a big part of my life. I enjoy the competition, improving my skills and being part of a team.
What inspired you to start playing soccer?
I was inspired to start playing soccer because of my brothers, Christian and James, who played before me, as well as both of my parents. Watching and playing soccer with Christian and James made me want to try the sport myself. I quickly realized how much I loved the game.
How old were you when you started playing?
I began playing soccer when I was six years old, and since then, it has grown into something I’m really passionate about.
Has there ever been a coach or mentor who made a huge impact on you? What did they teach you?
I have had two coaches who have had a big impact on me. Their names are Andy Reid and Kelly Koch. They taught me hard work, discipline, teamwork and confidence. Because of them, I have grown not just as a player, but also as a person.
What is your favorite thing about playing soccer for the Huskies?
My favorite thing about playing with the Huskies is the team bonding, competition and school pride. I really enjoy being a part of such a supportive team.
What is your favorite soccer memory?
My favorite soccer memory has to be that I was able to play with my older brother Christian, his senior year, when I was a freshman. I also can’t wait to make another amazing memory on senior night this year, playing with my younger brother Daniel, who is in eighth grade.
When you’re not in school or playing sports, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
When I’m not in school or playing soccer, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family, gaming and working out.
Education
EMILY HAYES
speech teacher at Helena Elementary School
First, tell me more about yourself.
I grew up in Trussville and graduated from Hewitt Trussville High School. I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in speech language pathology at the University of Montevallo. I am a Helena resident who enjoys live music, especially the Old Town Live concerts, spending time with my husband, Brian, and son, Holden, participating in and attending community events, going to the beach, cheering for Alabama football and going to church. I am actually involved in a local group trying to plant a Lutheran church here in Helena.
Can you tell me about your career in education/SLP?
I have been a speech language pathologist in elementary schools for the past 24 years. I spent six years in Florida prior to moving back to Alabama. I spent 15 years in Jefferson County Schools, and this is my third year at Helena Elementary School. I have had the opportunity to work with many students and families over the years and enjoy making personal connections with them all. I host graduate student interns every year and enjoy this supervising role as a means to give back to the profession. I actually completed my graduate school internship at Helena Elementary and Helena Intermediate School in 2002. So returning to Helena has been a full-circle experience for me.
What kind of impact do the students you work with have on your life?
I have had the privilege of working with hundreds of students over the past 24 years. Each one has taught me how to be a better SLP. Helping students be able to produce sounds correctly holds significant importance, especially when they can finally pronounce their name or a loved one’s name correctly. In addition, helping students with alternate modes of communication is so rewarding. Giving students a voice with AAC devices is so fulfilling and meaningful. I have also enjoyed building relationships with students and their families as we encourage a “team” approach to all communication disorders. My favorite thing is encountering past students as teenagers and young adults and discussing how we shared a special journey together when they were younger!
What makes working with elementary school students special?
Working in an elementary school is special because it is where the “magic” happens! I’m often a student’s introduction to the “speech/language” world, and I love the opportunity to introduce them to the therapy process. Watching a student make progress from the ground up is an honor. I also love the elementary school world because the students are so excited about learning and every day is a new experience!
What has been your favorite thing about working at Helena Elementary over the course of your time?
Working at Helena Elementary has truly been a blessing! Not only am I able to work in my community with “my people” but I’m also honored to be a part of such an amazing school family. Helena Elementary truly is a special place where teachers and students can become their best selves. We all focus on improving our strengths and weaknesses, skills and talents, and take advantage of what makes us all unique. In addition, I have the privilege of working under the best administration who provide high levels of support, explicit communication and procedures that enhance both efficiency and faculty/staff morale. Helena Elementary fosters a positive culture where I feel valued and appreciated.
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Meet Your Neighbor
The Whiteside Family
Having gotten married in 2017 and moved to Helena 2020, Aaron and Andrew Whiteside make up a duo that is involved in many different things and wears many different hats. Being able to centralize those efforts in Helena is something they take pride in, as well.
While Andrew works in a big company as a senior risk engineer for Zurich North America, Aaron keeps things local, owning Fixtures of Faith and teaching music at Helena United Methodist Church. But together, they also own another company in Coastal Oyster
Company to provide oyster-branded merchandise worldwide. Despite the busy schedules, the Whitesides love being able to raise and homeschool their two children, Liam and Lainey, in Helena. The kids are involved in their own respective activities, with Liam being a part of Cub Scout Pack 532 and Lainey Dancing at The Pointe in Hoover.
The Whitesides love that their home city is a unique town with close neighbors, becoming a giant family with those who are around them.
Helena Church Directory
ANGLICAN
Lamb of God Church
Head pastor: Caron Glenn Davis 5140 Hwy 17 (205) 919-7932 Lambofgodcec.org
BAPTIST
The Church at Old Town
Head Pastor: Josh Knierim 815 Highway 52 E (205) 663-7879 Thechurchatoldtown.org
Gospel Light Baptist Church
Lead Pastor: Gary Bohman 5781 Roy Drive (205) 685-0772 Glbcbham.com
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church
Head Pastor: Edwin Dinkins 5320 Helena Road (205) 624-3323 Mpbchelena.com
Riverside Baptist Church
Senior Pastor: Chris Wilson
Worship Pastor: Kyle Ziglar 1919 Highway 52 West (205) 426-1910 Rbchelena.org
Crossbridge Community Church
Lead Pastor: Cody Brister 1455 Starkey Street (205) 358-3500 Crossbridgehelena.com
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ at Helena 2499 Highway 58 (205) 620-4575 Helenachurch.com
DISCIPLES OF CHRIST
Grace Christian Church
Lead Pastor: Rev. Brad Henderson 869 County Road 52 (205) 426-1233 Gracechristianchurch.org
LUTHERAN
LCMS Helena Plant 4040-B, Helena Road (205)283-6742 helenalutheranplant@gmail.com
METHODIST
Helena Methodist Church
Head Pastor: Rev. Rusty Tate 2035 Highway 58 (205) 663-0111 Helenamethodist.org
Church at Cahaba Bend
Lead Pastor: Rev. Patrick Friday 3721 Hwy 52 West (205) 621-8060 Cahababend.org
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Live by Faith Christian Center
Pastors James & Dr. Johnnie Edwards 257- Riverwoods Pkwy (Pool House) Helena, Al. 35080 205-223-3719
Open Door Independent Church 120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963
Opendooral.com
The Cornerstone Church
Lead Pastor: Timothy Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332 Cornerstonechurchhelena.org
New Vision Christian Church
Senior Pastor: Van C. Houser 2383 Highway 95 (205) 919-6678 Nvcc4god.org
The Rock Church
Head Pastor: Bryan Van Gieson 501 2nd Avenue West (205) 358-7625 Rockofbirmingham.org
The Voice of Faith International Ministries
Head Pastor: Franklin Kirksey 1560 Cunningham Drive (205) 663-7396
PRESBYTERIAN
Harmony Church of Helena
Head Pastor: Scott Edwards 3396 Helena Road (205) 663-2174
Harmonychurchofhelena.net
Christ Community Church
Pastors: Phil Chambers and David Cunningham 2222 Highway 52 (205) 881-4222 ChristCommunity.net
Helena Methodist Church
Grace Christian Church
LEADING THE PACK
Baileigh Rumage begins to cap off a star-studded career of playing soccer in Helena
BY TYLER RALEY
PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES
OOn Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, the Helena Huskies girls soccer program was tied 1-1 with the Montgomery Academy Eagles in their opening game of the season at the Capital of Dreams tournament in Montgomery.
Junior Baileigh Rumage had already contributed heavily on the field with an assist to Henley Havens for a goal at the start of the second half, but in her mind, there was still more work to be done.
With roughly five minutes left in the game, the star upperclassman took a shot with the hopes of being the hero. When the ball struck nylon, those hopes became reality as Helena took a late lead and ultimately won the game, a scene that was evidenced by all of Rumage’s teammates surrounding her with
excitement as a result of the moment.
That junior is now moving closer and closer to the end of her senior year, and at the end of it lies a locker where she will take off the blue and black and trade it out for the purple and white. However, Rumage’s career of playing on “The Hill” has been the culmination of years of hard work prior to this that have set her up to be a star in the sport she so dearly loves.
Trying to find something to be consistently involved in as a child, Rumage began playing soccer when she was in second grade. She had already tried out dance and cheer, but found she was not really intrigued by it.
Her parents asked her if she wanted to try soccer,
and from there, the rest is history.
“I think just the constantly being involved and you got to work with so many people on the field,” said Baileigh Rumage. “You really develop friendships quickly that way because you get so close with people because you have to build connections off the field and then it transpires on to the field. I think just as a little kid, getting to meet so many people and playing with them on the field was just a really fun time for me.”
Rumage’s road went through many different clubs, taking numerous different stops along the way in her development. Her competitive career began playing locally through Helena Parks and Recreation before she moved on to a state league with the Hoover Soccer
Club. It was not until her stint through Briarwood after that that Rumage realized she wanted to play in college.
As a result, she went to play with Alabama FC, making an Elite Clubs Regional League team. The move was backed by her wanting to get more exposure, and as a result of her drive and desire, Rumage got opportunities with the National League team.
She soon got to high school level, beginning to play with Helena varsity team while she was only in eighth grade. Through the experience, Rumage quickly realized how much of a family her program really was.
“Playing with my high school team, the connections with those girls is definitely really strong because off
the field, we spend so much time with each other at school,” Rumage said. “Winning in high school means a lot more because you’re just so involved with these girls.”
Rumage has gotten to play under longtime soccer coach Clif Naron in her time at the varsity level, someone she emphasizes she has had a strong player/ coach connection with.
When it comes to the list of people who have prepared her for being ready for the college game, Rumage does not hesitate to mention him, who has taught her not only about being a good player, but a good leader, especially through the team’s Survivor week each season.
“He’s taught me a lot with leadership,” Rumage said. “In the eighth grade, I remember him telling us some story about it and that really hit home with me. After that, I just found myself trying to be a leader and I’ve always found him encouraging me and giving me tips on how to be a leader. He’s been really influential in that aspect for me.”
The leadership opportunities she’s earned and learned along the way have helped shape Rumage into the senior she is now. However, it’s not just leadership that gets an athlete to the college level, as skill is a big factor.
When looking back on the early part of her career, Rumage has seen a player that had to battle to get to
this point, saying she was not the most talented player growing up.
Her turning point though came in her middle school years and just before that, with some of her coaches like Oyeleke Payne and John Imwalle all having high belief in the player she could be.
Payne in particular having two daughters who have become Olympians, Rumage has never taken for granted the fact that she is learning from the best of the best.
“That was an amazing experience because these players that are going to the Olympics, I got to learn from them,” Rumage said. “How they work and how they played, I could incorporate that into how I would
work and train. Just seeing people on a big stage like that and training with them, it was really inspirational.”
Now, as Rumage finishes up her time at Helena High School, she looks forward to playing out a dream she set in stone long ago—playing at the collegiate level.
The star will be taking her talents to Spring Hill College in Mobile to play for head coach Samantha Thomsit, a place that she says felt like home since the first time she visited. What made it home though was a combination of numerous aspects, but especially the fact that the players have made her feel special.
“I’m really excited to play with girls with such like a high level of soccer because college soccer and high
“You really develop friendships quickly that way because you get so close with people because you have to build connections off the field and then it transpires on to the field. I think just as a little kid, getting to meet so many people and playing with them on the field was just a really fun time for me.”
-BAILEIGH RUMAGE
school soccer, there’s a big jump,” Rumage said. “There’s a big difference in play and so just getting to play with those girls that have such a high level of soccer knowledge and getting this opportunity is really what’s most exciting for me.”
However, as she prepares to trade out jerseys and don the purple and white for the Badgers, a large part of Rumage’s heart will always bleed blue and black.
After she crosses the stage with her high school diploma in May, she will not turn her tassel looking to forget what Helena did for her throughout her time
playing soccer. Instead, she hopes that her journey of just kicking a ball around to becoming one of Shelby County’s top players has inspired girls in Helena to believe in themselves and push so that one day, they can live out their dreams too.
“I want my legacy to be to not let girls that think that anything is impossible,” Rumage said. “I wasn’t always the most talented player, so I had to do a lot of hard work to get there. I hope girls can use me as an example and know that if they work hard enough, that they can absolutely achieve anything they want.”
DANCING TO THE TOP
Helena’s Regan Landry wins national title with NMCC
BY DANIEL LOCKE
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
HHelena has been the home of many dancers who have gone on to have success at the collegiate level, and another name has been added to the list with Regan Landry.
Regan graduated from Helena High School in 2025 and continued her academic and dance career at Northwest Mississippi Community College. The Rangers earned their third straight title in the Open Hip Hop division at the 2026 UDA Nationals in Orlando, making Regan a national champion.
Regan reflected on the moment she and her teammates knew that they were about to achieve their goal of winning it all. It is a day that will stick
with her for the rest of her life.
“I think the win was a byproduct of an amazing season, and absolutely nothing compares to that feeling,” Regan said. “I remember walking out for our semi-finals performance and being insanely nervous, but come finals, we were seven or eight points ahead of the team in second place. We knew we had won the national championship.”
Dance was not always an activity that Regan participated in. She started cheerleading when she was three, and didn’t take to dance until later in her childhood.
“I started cheering at the age of 3, and cheered all the way up until fifth grade,” Regan said. “Then
I got this petrifying fear of tumbling, which kind of stopped the cheer journey. I had a friend bring me to a dance class in fifth grade, and I absolutely fell in love with it. It was something I could do that felt much safer in my eyes. It just kind of stuck on me. I tried out for the middle school team and made it. I was very shocked.”
Regan continued to grow as a dancer throughout her time in middle school. When high school came around, she made the team and even held the roster’s highest honor during her senior year with the program.
“I fell in love with the style of dance we did there, and I continued dancing at Dance Et Cetera before
I moved on to high school, where I danced with the Helena High School team,” Regan said. “I loved it. I served as captain my senior year.”
While dancing in high school provided Regan with memories that she will always carry with her and was something she will never take for granted, she also knew that she had a desire to keep competing at the collegiate level.
She remembers the moment she decided to pursue the opportunity to dance for a college program.
“My junior year, we went to nationals and made it to finals for one of the first times in program history. I looked at my mom and said, ‘I don’t
“My junior year, we went to nationals and made it to finals for one of the first times in program history. I looked at my mom and said, ‘I don’t think I can stop doing this.”
-REGAN LANDRY
think I can stop doing this,’” Regan said. “I wanted to compete. I wanted to keep coming back to nationals.”
Regan not only knew she wanted to continue her dance career as a member of a collegiate program, but she also knew what style of dance she wanted to pursue.
“I was dead set on doing hip hop, but Helena does kick, jazz and game day,” Regan said. “So the training I was getting in that was strictly at Dance Et Cetera. I really had to push myself.”
Northwest Mississippi stood out to Regan because the family feel the program has. She made the decision to submit her audition video, and the
rest is history.
“I got in contact with Patrice Christian, who’s our coach, and submitted my recruitment video,” Regan said. “I went into it really shy and not really sure what to think about myself. I didn’t have confidence in that style quite yet, and so being able to go to college and just grow in that program was something that I honestly cherish more than the championship ring itself.”
Throughout her progression as a dancer, Regan has been helped along by coaches who have taken a lot of pride in seeing her grow over the years. She credits this group with playing a large role in assisting her in her goal to become a college
dancer.
“It starts in middle school with my coach Anna McIntyre, she has stayed one of my biggest inspirations and really fostered that love for dance in me,” Regan said. “At Dance Et Cetera, I had Amy Bonvillain, she really pushed me to be better and is one of my biggest inspirations. Jennifer Friedman she’s always given me opportunities to train with good people. My high school coach, Jennifer Russell, supported me when I first decided my junior year—really late in the game— that I wanted to dance in college. She had a lot of extensive conversations with me, touched base with me and has stayed in contact.”
While Regan has made her coaches proud along the way, it doesn’t compare to the pride Paige Landry, Regan’s mother, feels when reflecting on her daughter’s dance journey.
“I can hardly put it into words,” Paige said. “When Regan made the middle school team, her splits would not even touch the floor. She made the team, and she had to put the work in. She always stood out to me as being very sharp and energetic, but that was the cheerleader in her. I was worried about her joining the game a little bit late, but we were so proud when she was named one of the captains.”
When Regan told Paige about her desire to
compete collegiately, she was aware it would be a long road, but she never doubted her ability to accomplish anything she decided to pursue.
“I knew it was going to take a lot of work, but I never doubted what she would be able to do,” Paige said. “She’s handled 12 to 14-hour practice days in preparation for nationals.”
While Regan’s journey may not have started as early as many of her teammates and mentors over the years, she was able to achieve her dream of competing in college through hard work and dedication.
Living well happens
Living with a chronic health condition doesn’t mean childhood has to stop. At Children’s of Alabama, we make sure kids can keep doing what they do best—laughing, playing, and simply being kids. With expert care, advanced treatments, and a team that never stops believing in brighter days, we help families navigate their healthcare journey with confidence, strength, and hope.
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Reclaim the throne
The Helena High School varsity softball team is working to follow up its state title run with another memorable season.
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
Play Ball!
The first season of the Mitch Moreland era is underway, and the Huskies are working hard to get off to a strong start in the new era.
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
JUST A TASTE!
Taste of Helena provided residents of Helena with the opportunity to sample food from various restaurants throughout the community.
FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES
FOOD AND COMMUNITY
FOR THE MAGAZINE/AINSLEY ALLISON AND JEREMY RAINES
Taste of Helena was a night centered around enjoying food with friends and fellow community members.
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TASTE OF HELENA ALLOWS LOCALS TO SAMPLE SOME OF COMMUNITY’S BEST FOOD
BY DANIEL LOCKE
HELENA – Residents of the city of Helena and the surrounding communities came out to the Helena Community Center in numbers with their appetites intact on the evening of Thursday, March 12, as an event that has been a favorite in the community made its return.
Taste of Helena provided the opportunity for guests to try new creations from some of their favorite restaurants and vendors throughout the community, and allowed them to revisit some of their favorite dishes.
In addition to enjoying the plentiful options for food and treats that were available, those in attendance were able to interact with one another, all while supporting business students at Helena High School.
A panel of judges determined the winners in three separate categories: best sweet bite, best savory and best taste overall. The winners in each category were as follows:
u Best sweet bite: The Unbroken Crumb
u Best savory: Hey Bebe Where Yat?
u Best taste overall: Refined To Go
When it was all said and done, $3,000 dollars were raised
for the students, who all worked as volunteers at the event. The complete list of vendors present at the event included:
u Zou’s Kitchen
u Mere’s Bakes
u Refined To Go
u Chick-fil-A Helena
u Louise’s Cakes & Supply
u Taco Mac
u El Tejano
u Gage’Z Café
u Little Caesars
u Los Arcos
u The Unbroken Crumb
u Hey Bebe Where Yat?
u Its Wing Time
u Sabrina’s Bake House
u Half Shell Oyster House
u Making Magic in the Kitchen
u Bratzke Bakery
u Home Plate Cooking
HELENA
P.O.
