Issuu

CITYOFHELENA.ORG

JANUARY 2026

HELENA THE MAGAZINE

WALKING ON

JAKE KRUSE’S AUBURN FOOTBALL JOURNEY

DRIVEN TO INSPIRE DEREK DUPUIS IS THE COUNTY’S TEACHER OF THE YEAR

JANUARY 2026

ALWAYS IN THE KNOW

HEWY WOODMAN KEEPS HELENA RESIDENTS INFORMED CityOfHelena.org 1

A FARM ST YLE COMMUNITY. LOTS RANGING FROM 5 TO 20 ACRES

LOCATED ON HIGHWAY 13 NEAR CAHA B A PA R K

Any Inquiries Contact: Tim Webster Email: tim@shelbylands.com Phone: (205) 789-3301

A custom built model home is under construction and for sale. Contact us for more information.

Site Plan with Pricing SHELBY LANDS DEVELOPMENTS:

Parkview Farms

Springwater Farms

For more information visit shelbylands.com 2 CityOfHelena.org

City Leadership

A letter from the mayor Looking forward to 2026 in Helena I hope each of you had a wonderful Christmas and that the New Year has begun with joy and hope for you and your families. This past holiday season was made especially meaningful by our Christmas Tree Lighting and Annual Christmas Parade. I am deeply grateful to the Helena Beautification Board, the Christmas Parade Committee, Helena Police and Fire and our incredible city employees and volunteers

who gave their time and hearts to make these traditions so special for our community. December was full of gatherings, celebrations and time with loved ones, but it was also a month of important progress for our city. In my last letter, I shared concerns about the outdated accounting and financial systems we’ve been working with at City Hall. In early December, we took an encouraging first step by hosting a

While I’m not one for lofty New Year’s resolutions, I do promise this: we will keep learning, improving, and growing together as a city, month by month, step by step.”

live demonstration from a potential vendor for date, those adjustments are important to ensure a new accounting system that would improve the building truly serves our needs for years to accuracy, efficiency and transparency for both come. I’m grateful for everyone’s patience and the City Council and the community. I’m hopeful understanding as we wait on materials and look of continuing to evaluate a few more options in toward an early spring move-in. This season always invites both the coming months and selecting a reflection and anticipation. One partner by spring. year ago, I was just beginning my As I write this, I’m finalizing campaign, meeting many of you department budget reviews and for the first time and learning what meeting with department heads, truly matters to this community. I aiming to have our budget approved had no idea how much this journey by the time you read this. I’m thankful would shape me or deepen my love for their collaboration and willingness for Helena. While I’m not one for to walk through this process together. lofty New Year’s resolutions, I do We’ve also developed a new way to promise this: we will keep learning, track monthly spending against our Mayor Billy improving, and growing together as approved budget, providing clearer, Rosener a city, month by month, step by step. more consistent updates than we’ve Thank you for your trust, your had in the past. Work on the new City Hall at 10 Jack Gray Way encouragement and the privilege of serving this is continuing. While a few necessary changes and remarkable community. I’m excited and hopeful architectural corrections will delay our move-in for what 2026 holds.

Together, we can build a brighter future for Helena.

CityOfHelena.org 5

In this issue FEATURES

20 Teacher of the Year Derek Dupuis builds conﬁdence in students

26 A lasting impact The work Hewy Woodman has done will beneﬁt Helena for years to come

34 The Auburn dream Jake Kruse overcame the odds to suit up for the Tigers

6 CityOfHelena.org

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HELENA THE MAGAZINE

CONTENT

Ofﬁcial Publication of the City of Helena

A Letter from the Mayor

Sports + Schools Q&A

EDITORIAL

Michaela Bankston Dave Domescik

Anna Grace Moore

City Government

Meet Your Neighbor

Tyler Raley

Noah Wortham

The Guide

City Hall Faces

Sydney Allen

In the News

Around Town Photos

Rachel Henderson

Greetings from the Jane B. Holmes Public Library

My Helena

Rhett McCreight

ON THE COVER A voice for the community

Daniel Locke

Andrew Simonson

DESIGN

Jamie Dawkins Rowan Futrell

PHOTOGRAPHY Jeremy Raines

MARKETING 0QCJ $TCMGƂGNF

Viridiana Romero Tori Smith

ADMINISTRATION Publisher

Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. 115 North Main Street Columbiana AL 35051 205-669-3131 Alec Etheredge

Hewy Woodman’s service was centered around transparency

President and Publisher

Photo by Jeremy Raines Cover Design by Sydney Allen

Customer Service

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

Mary Jo Eskridge *GNGPC 6JG /CIC\KPG KU VJG QHƂEKCN RWDNKECVKQP HQT VJG %KV[ QH Helena that is published monthly by Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. This publication replaces the weekly newspaper Helena Reporter VJCV YCU RTQFWEGF URGEKƂECNN[ HQT VJG *GNGPC EQOOWPKV[ UKPEG The magazine is mailed to all households and businesses in the 35080 zip code and will be available year-round throughout the City of Helena. Additional copies may be available at Helena City Hall at 205-663-2161 or info@helenathemagazine.com. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission is prohibited. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Shelby County Newspapers, Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Please email advertise@helenathemagazine.com for advertising inquiries.

Utilities and Services

City Government

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

Billy Rosener Mayor brosener@cityofhelena.org

Cathy Hammann

Andy Healy

Place 1

Place 2 Pro Tempore

Place 3

chammann@ cityofhelena.org

ahealy@ cityofhelena.org

dwilson@ cityofhelena.org

Brooke Dodson

Jeﬀ McDaniels

Madison Harris

Place 4, Council President

Place 5

City Clerk and Treasurer

bdodson@ cityofhelena.org

jmcdaniels@ cityofhelena.org

mharris@ cityofhelena.org

Dennis Wilson

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.

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

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

THE GUIDE

VARSITY BASKETBALL VS PELHAM JANUARY 23 6 P.M. Helena High School

The Helena High School varsity boys and girls basketball teams host Pelham on Friday, Jan. 23. Come out and support the Huskies in this rivalry matchup. CityOfHelena.org 9

JANUARY 6

SECOND SEMESTER BEGINS ALL DAY Shelby County Schools Shelby County Schools resume session on Tuesday, Jan. 6. All students will return to school from winter break.

JANUARY 19

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY ALL DAY School and municipal offices

School and municipal offices will be closed as the life of Martin Luther King Jr. is celebrated.

JANUARY 8 | 10 A.M. Senior bingo and birthday cake at the community center JANUARY 8 | 10 A.M. Storytime at the Library JANUARY 9 | 6 P.M. Varsity basketball at Pelham JANUARY 12 | 6 P.M. City Council meeting JANUARY 13 | 10 A.M. Storytime at the Library JANUARY 13 | 5:30 P.M. Varsity basketball at Chelsea JANUARY 14 | 9 A.M. 5GPKQT DKPIQ CV %JKEM ƂN # JANUARY 15 | 10 A.M. Senior bingo and lunch at the community center JANUARY 15 | 10 A.M. Storytime at the Library JANUARY 15 | 6 P.M. Planning & Zoning meeting

10 CityOfHelena.org

JANUARY 16 | ALL DAY High school bowling area tournament JANUARY 16 | 5:30 P.M. Varsity basketball at Spain Park JANUARY 19 | ALL DAY Martin Luther King Jr. Day JANUARY 19 | ALL DAY High school indoor track MLK Classic JANUARY 20 | 10 A.M. Storytime at the Library JANUARY 20 | 5:30 P.M. Varsity basketball vs Chelsea JANUARY 21 | 9 A.M. 5GPKQT DKPIQ CV %JKEM ƂN # JANUARY 22 | 10 A.M. Storytime at the Library JANUARY 23 | 6 P.M. Varsity basketball vs Pelham JANUARY 26 | 6 P.M. City Council meeting JANUARY 26 | 6 P.M. Varsity basketball at Northridge JANUARY 27 | 10 A.M. Storytime at the Library

JANUARY 6

VARSITY BASKETBALL VS SPAIN PARK 5:30 P.M. Helena High School The second semester kicks off, and Helena varsity basketball welcomes a tough opponent in Spain Park to begin area play.

JANUARY 1 AND 2

OFFICES CLOSED FOR NEW YEAR’S ALL DAY School and municipal offices

JANUARY 27 | 4 P.M. Municipal Court

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JANUARY 28 | 9 A.M. 5GPKQT DKPIQ CV %JKEM ƂN # JANUARY 29 | 10 A.M. Senior bingo at the community center JANUARY 29 | 10 A.M. Storytime at the Library JANUARY 30 | 6 P.M. Varsity basketball vs Bibb County

HELENA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

Monday, January 12 & 26 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. CityOfHelena.org 11

In the News HELENA HOSTS WINTER SPORTS SLAM DINNER AND SILENT AUCTION The Helena Athletic Association hosted the Winter Sports Slam, a dinner and UKNGPV CWEVKQP VJCV DGPGƂVGF *GNGPC basketball and wrestling, at Helena High School on Sunday, Nov. 9.

HELENA HONORS JACK GRAY WITH STREET DEDICATION AT NEW CITY HALL Jack Gray, a longtime Helena volunteer who passed away in May, was honored by the Helena City Council with a street dedication at the new city hall.

PEGGY HOLLY EARNS 2025 HELENA LIFETIME VOLUNTEER AWARD Peggy Holly was presented with the 2025 Helena Lifetime Volunteer Award during the annual volunteer thank you party at El Tejano on Wednesday, Nov. 12.

FIRST RESPONDERS FIRE UP THE GRILL FOR HELENA’S GUNS N HOSES BBQ COOKOFF The Helena Fire Department hosted the Guns N Hoses BBQ Cookoff CV *GNGPC #ORJKVJGCVTG 2CTM QP 5WPFC[ 0QX DGPGƂVKPI VJG EQOOWPKV[oU ƂTUV TGURQPFGTU

12 CityOfHelena.org

In the News HOT RODS AND COOL RIDES TAKE OVER HELENA Helena Old Town hosted a car show on 5CVWTFC[ 0QX ƂNNKPI *GNGPC Amphitheatre Park with good times and classic vehicles.

SECOND GRADERS HELP DECORATE CITY HALL CHRISTMAS TREE 6JG UGEQPF ITCFG YKPPGTU QH VJG ƂTUV CPPWCN %JTKUVOCU Ornament Contest helped decorate the tree at Helena City Hall.

HELENA OPENS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION WITH TREE LIGHTING The Christmas celebration in Helena kicked off with the annual tree lighting at The Caboose in Old Town on Friday, Dec. 5.

HELENA HOLDS 54TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARADE One of Helena’s most beloved traditions was held on Saturday, Dec. 6. This year’s theme was “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

CityOfHelena.org 13

Update from

14 CityOfHelena.org

THE COUNCIL

Andy Healy PLACE 2, CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE Dear citizens of Helena, Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, I want to thank you for the privilege of serving as your city councilman. A new year brings fresh energy, new goals and, let’s be honest, those ambitious resolutions we’re all determined to keep. That is until about the second week of January. But even if our personal resolutions fizzle, Helena’s progress marches on, thanks to the incredible spirit of this community. This past year brought important conversations, including some around the city budget. We took a little extra time with it to make sure every number made sense. I’m grateful for your patience. Helena deserves thoughtful, careful decisions and that’s exactly what we aimed to do. We also continued moving forward with the new City Hall, a project that was started under the prior administration. I know not everyone was thrilled about it, including some council members, and I understand that. But now that it’s almost ready, our goal is to make it something that truly serves our community: efficient, functional and maybe even

a place we can all be proud of. Think of it as a surprise gift you may not have picked out, but we’re going to make it shine. Looking ahead, I’m excited about the positive direction Helena is moving under the leadership of our new mayor and the newly elected council. Together, we’re exploring ways to improve our parks so families and kids have even better places to play, laugh and make memories. We’re also continuing to support our police and fire departments, making sure our everyday heroes have what they need to keep Helena safe and sound. With a strong, collaborative team in place, I’m confident we’ll make this year one of progress and opportunities for everyone. And to our Helena residents living in Jefferson County: you are an important part of this city. Even if some decisions or boundaries make it feel otherwise, please know you are valued, welcomed and very much part of Helena’s story. My door and my phone are always open. Thank you for your trust, your support and your belief in what Helena can become. Let’s make this new year one of progress, unity, and maybe, even keep at least one resolution (hey, we can dream!). Wishing you and your families a blessed, happy, and prosperous New Year!

CityOfHelena.org 15

Library Update

GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY

*UHHWLQJV IURP WKH /LEUDU\ LV KHUH DQG R̆HUV D great opportunity for Helena residents to explore the OLEUDU\ DQG ZKDW LW KDV WR R̆HU $V PDQ\ RI \RX NQRZ a public library card gives patrons of all ages access to books from libraries all over Shelby County. Through many grants, many friends and volunteers and the overall support of the city of Helena, the OLEUDU\ KDV D JUHDW FROOHFWLRQ RI PDWHULDOV ¿OOLQJ RXU VKHOYHV 7KH QHZ \HDU R̆HUV an opportunity to try new things and read about new subjects. Value and convenience are also something to consider when visiting the library. A great way for patrons to make the most of their library card is the digital catalog. Similar to online shopping, looking for books on the catalog is easy and Library Director Dan Dearing can be a time saver. While curling up with a good book seems like a fun ZLQWHUWLPH WKLQJ WR GR ZH DOVR R̆HU QHZ LWHPV RQ WKH digital apps Libby and Hoopla. If you are not using these services, please stop by the library today and obtain or update your library card. The Friends of the Library held a toy drive in December WKDW EHQH¿WHG WKH +HOHQD 3ROLFH 'HSDUWPHQW¶V 7R\V IRU Tots campaign. Friends of the Library volunteers are important to the overall mission of the library, and they generously give their time and energy. This group meets to have fun, socialize, plan and work

on projects to improve the library for the community. 7KH JURXS PHHWV RQ WKH ¿UVW 7XHVGD\ RI WKH PRQWK DW 5:45 p.m. at the library. Please call 205-664-8308 and ask for Dan if you are interested in joining. The library has some great events coming up for January! XFriends of the Library Meeting – Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 5:45 p.m. XKnit, Stitch, and Chat – Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 10:30 a.m. – Bring your knitting, stitching or other simple art project to work on while you chat with others in your community XChildren’s Program – Winter Mobile Craft – Ages 3 and up – Monday, Jan. 12 at 5:30 p.m. XSenior Program – Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 10:30 p.m. XLego Fun! – All ages – Monday, Jan. 26 at 5:30 p.m. XStorytime - For those of you with younger children, check out our Storytime. This is a fun event with stories, sing-alongs and music that will keep young people moving. Storytime is every Tuesday and Thursday at 11 a.m. throughout the year, and it is a great way for your preschooler to learn and meet others in your community

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

Phone: (205) 664-8308 Facebook: |*GNGPC 2WDNKE .KDTCT[ (TKGPFU Website:|EKV[QHJGNGPC QTI RWDNKE NKDTCT[ Instagram:|"JGNGPCNKDTCT[

Please visit the library soon,

-Daniel Dearing, library director 16 CityOfHelena.org

January’s Top Picks TWICE By Mitch Albom | Adult Fiction What if you got to do everything in your life—twice? This is a stunning love story that dares to explore how our unchecked desires might mean losing what we’ve had all along. THE MODERN PIONEER PANTRY: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO PRESERVING FOOD $[ /CT[ $T[CPV 5JTCFGT ^ #FWNV 0QPƂEVKQP Canning, preserving, pickling and drying, people have realized that these methods, when done properly and safely, can preserve fresh food for months and even years. POCKET BEAR By Katherine Applegate | Juvenile An unforgettable tale of bravery, loyalty and kindness, Pocket reminds us all that love comes in many forms—sometimes ƂNNGF YKVJ ƃWHHtCPF VJCV UGEQPF chances are always possible. SWEET & SALTY!: KING ARTHUR BAKING COMPANY’S COOKBOOK FOR YOUNG BAKERS By King Arthur Baking Company | ,WXGPKNG 0QPƂEVKQP From the most trusted American baking resource comes a collection of over eighty sweet, salty and very, very tasty recipes. BUGS: A SPOTTER’S GUIDE $[ 2CWNKPG 5CXCIG ^ ,WXGPKNG 0QPƂEVKQP Spot more than 200 wild, colorful, peculiar bugs—without leaving your bedroom! Through realistic illustrations, fast facts, maps and size comparisons, kids will learn what makes insects so fascinating. YETI IS NOT READY FOR SCHOOL By Leigh Anne Carter | Easy/Picture First day of school jitters? Yeti knows all about that! She’s not ready for her ƂTUV FC[ QH UEJQQN GKVJGT 6JKU EQNQTHWN picture book gently reminds readers that it’s normal to be nervous when we try new things.

CityOfHelena.org 17

Sports

LAKE GRAHAM Head coach for HHS girls basketball

18 CityOfHelena.org

Tell me a bit about yourself and some information you might share when you first meet someone. My name is Lake Graham. I have been married to my amazing wife, Laney Graham, for six years in March, and we have two wonderful boys, Luke, two years old, and Lincoln, 10 months old. What inspired you to start coaching basketball? I did not originally get into education with the intention of coaching. However, through circumstance, I was given the opportunity to and found that I enjoyed it more than I have ever enjoyed anything. *QY QNF YGTG [QW YJGP [QW IQV KPVQ|EQCEJKPI! I was 27 years old when I first began coaching at my first teaching job at Liberty Park Middle School. *CU VJGTG GXGT DGGP C EQCEJ QT OGPVQT| YJQ OCFG C huge impact on you? What did they teach you? My mentor is my former high school coach, Faron Key. He is now the head coach at Wallace State Community College. I model everything I do as a coach after the example that he set for me while I was his player. What is your favorite basketball memory? My favorite basketball memory as a player would be setting our school’s win record as a senior. Similarly, my favorite memory as a coach would be when we set the win record for Helena girls basketball last season. When you’re not at school or coaching, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? When I’m not working, I am spending as much time as I possibly can with my wife and boys. CityOfHelena.org 19

Education

DEREK DUPUIS Math teacher at Helena High School 20 CityOfHelena.org

(KTUV VGNN OG OQTG CDQWV [QWTUGNH | I am a graduate of the University of Mobile (‘08) & the University of Montevallo (‘19) and I am currently studying for an Ed.S. from the University of Alabama. My wife, Rebekah, and I met during our freshman year of college and have been married since 2012. She manages Cherokee Campground here in Helena. We have two kids, Hobson, 9, and Willa Ruth, 4. Can you tell me about your career in education? I knew when I was 15 that I wanted to be a teacher, and Ms. Darby, my high school math teacher, encouraged me to pursue math. From that moment, I never changed my major or looked back. I spent the ¿UVW ¿YH \HDUV RI P\ FDUHHU WHDFKLQJ DW D SULYDWH VFKRRO LQ 0RELOH When we moved to the area in 2013, I began my journey in public HGXFDWLRQ ¿UVW WHDFKLQJ DW 0LQRU +LJK 7KRPSVRQ +LJK DQG &DOHUD Middle before moving to Helena High in 2020. I currently teach AP Precalculus, AP Statistics and work with SGA. 9JCV MKPF QH KORCEV FQ|VJG|UVWFGPVU|[QW|VGCEJ|JCXG QP [QWT|NKHG CU|C VGCEJGT! My students remind me not to take myself so seriously. There are times when I think that because I teach AP math, I have to be so put together and always have every single moment planned, but they remind me of the joy that can be found by relaxing a little bit and being ok with making mistakes. They also show me that the next generation is capable of doing some really amazing things. They remind me of the importance of investing in relationships with others. What has been your favorite thing about working at Helena *KIJ QXGT VJG|EQWTUG QH [QWT|VKOG! The best part of working at Helena High is the family environment. In six years, I have made lifelong friendships. My SGA crew—Mrs. Fowler, Mr. Scoggins, Mrs. Knight, Mrs. McKinney, Mrs. Channell, Mr. Jordan and Mrs. Copeland—have become friends who I know I can count on for anything. From the moment I walked in the doors to move my classroom in the midst of COVID, everyone was so helpful and kind. Can you describe the honor of being named Secondary Teacher of the Year by Shelby County Schools? I am not sure if it has fully sunk in yet, but being named the Secondary Teacher of the Year has been surreal and humbling all at once. To know there are people who respect what I do in and out of WKH FODVVURRP HYHU\ GD\ WR QDPH PH DV 7R7< KDV ḊUPHG LQ PH WKDW this is exactly what God has called me to do. Do you have a message you would like to say to the Helena community? To the people of Helena, thank you for trusting us with your greatest treasures and for sending kind and respectful children to school each day. Thank you for what you do to make this such a special community. CityOfHelena.org 21

Meet Your Neighbor

The Traynham Family When Amanda and Tommy Traynham chose a community to call home 17 years ago, Helena was an easy choice. It is close to their family, is home to great schools and features a small-town feel. All of those things that were deciding factors for the Traynham’s to move to Helena are still true nearly two decades later. Tommy is the senior director of technology for Taziki’s 22 CityOfHelena.org

Mediterranean Café and Amanda is the director of network operations for Viva Health. The Traynham’s have three sons who attend Helena schools. 1YGP KU %JCTNKG KU GKIJV CPF #UJGT KU ƂXG Being involved in the community and spending time outdoors are some of the favorite pastimes of the Traynham’s, and Helena provides them plenty of opportunities to do both

Helena Methodist Church

Grace Christian Church

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

The Cornerstone Church Lead Pastor: Timothy Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332 Cornerstonechurchhelena.org

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

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

LUTHERAN LCMS Helena Plant 4097-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 Open Door Independent Church 120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963 Opendooral.com

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 CityOfHelena.org 23

City Hall Faces

Meet Charles Hudson Captain for Helena Police Department Since 2008, the Helena Police Department has been served by Charles Hudson, who was promoted to captain in July 2025. *WFUQP DGICP JKU VKOG YKVJ *GNGPC 2& CU C PKIJV RCVTQN QHƂEGT In 2011, he was promoted to patrol sergeant. In 2021, he earned a promotion to patrol lieutenant. Throughout his time with the department, Hudson has held PWOGTQWU UGEQPFCT[ TQNGU UWEJ CU ƂTGCTOU KPUVTWEVQT TCPIG master, defensive tactics instructor and SWAT team member and sniper. Currently, Hudson is responsible for overseeing patrol,

FGVGEVKXGU FKURCVEJ LCKN CPF ƃGGV OCPCIGOGPV One of Hudson’s favorite things about serving Helena is the friendly people he has the opportunity to frequently interact with. “The residents here go out of their way to be friendly, and they do an incredibly good job of taking care of the city and showing their appreciation, especially to the police department,” *WFUQP UCKF | p5QOGQPG KU CNYC[U UVQRRKPI D[ VQ DTKPI WU treats or sending us letters in the mail just to say thank you, and it means a lot to all of us.”

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LEHMAN

ONE COUPLE’S MID-CENTURY MODERN MAK EOVER

KEEPING HELENA CONNECTED Hewy Woodman’s community mission

BY DANIEL LOCKE PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES, CONTRIBUTED AND FILE 26 CityOfHelena.org

Hewy Woodman can’t walk through a Helena event without stopping to answer a question, shake a hand or point someone in the right direction. For the former city council member, keeping his community connected isn’t just a duty—it’s a calling he’s never been willing to let go. Woodman first stumbled upon Helena by accident, but it didn’t take him long to realize it was a special place that he wanted to learn more about. Soon after that, he decided to make the community his home. “I’ve heard several people say that they got lost and ended up in Helena,” Woodman said. “I

had driven down a cow pasture, and I hit Old Town. I saw the Davidson Dam and I said, ‘Oh my goodness.’ I started exploring that area and then started looking for houses around there.” After settling into Helena and beginning to raise a family in the community, Woodman became passionate about sharing what was going on with his family back home. This led him to start his blog, No Sleep in Helena, which became a reliable way for local people to stay informed. “Being a young father with a young family, I tried to go around and collect information,” Woodman said. “I was the first person in my CityOfHelena.org 27

family to leave Montgomery, so I started a blog to tell them what was going on. I kind of kept it anonymous in case other people read it. It got such great positive feedback from people. I started posting more, and then people would give me events.” After he had spent enough time frequently attending the events happening in Helena, Woodman was encouraged to start volunteering at them. This led to him discovering another thing he was passionate about, serving the community he proudly called home with his family. “Once I started hanging around the events, I got drafted into volunteering,” Woodman said. “Some of the older gentlemen got me hyped up about being a volunteer and kind of taught me how to do it, the right mindset for it. I think when you connect those two things—trying to find out about events and volunteering for the events—you’re all in at that point.” Woodman’s passion for making information accessible to the community played a role in his decision to pursue a place on the Helena City Council, as it was difficult to obtain anything through the city. “I think what motivated me initially was the city not providing the laws online,” Woodman said. “I had just gotten out of law school, and I was really excited to go through all the laws in Helena, and they didn’t provide it. If you wanted it, you had to precisely say what it was, and they made you pay for each page in Xerox copy, which was very expensive. My goal was to put everything online, to make information free.” Woodman was elected to the council with no opposition in 2012, entering Helena’s leadership alongside Mayor Mark Hall. 28 CityOfHelena.org

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He started his mission to allow the public the opportunity to easily access all of the city’s legal information as soon as he took office. Additionally, he helped streamline communication with the public about everything going on in the community. “I think that goal of providing information for free for everybody was probably the biggest challenge,” Woodman said. “I think there was a concern that if you allowed people to have unfettered access to everything, it would be encouraging people to bring on lawsuits. My answer to that is if you don’t give out any information and then you give out a little, people

are going to scrutinize it because they didn’t know the whole process that led to that conclusion. “If you make that information open, you’re going to have people complain, but at least they can understand how that process worked to get to that conclusion, and know it wasn’t something nefarious happening.” Woodman helped oversee Helena during one of its most revolutionary periods. The city vastly expanded throughout his three terms on the council, and he helped guide the community through the challenges that come along with growth. “I actually made the first social media account,

“I think what motivated me initially was the city not providing the laws online. I had just gotten out of law school, and I was really excited to go through all the laws in Helena, and they didn’t provide it. If you wanted it, you had to precisely say what it was, and they made you pay for each page in Xerox copy, which was very expensive. My goal was to put everything online, to make information free.” -HEWY WOODMAN

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a Twitter account for the city and transferred it to them,” Woodman said. “I think social media has transformed the way Helena exists. Helena was a small community that started growing quickly. The obvious glaring change is how big we’ve gotten. It really has gotten to the point where we need to start building more facilities in different corners of the city because you can’t get across the city in five minutes, it’s a 20-minute drive now.” With his time on the council complete, Woodman takes a lot of pride in maintaining his willingness to interact with members of the community and following through on his goal of making information more accessible. These two achievements stand out in his mind as WKH\ DUH ZKDW PRWLYDWHG KLP WR UXQ LQ WKH ¿UVW SODFH “I started as a blogger who basically shares everything,” Woodman said. “I noted what I didn’t like about politicians, that at some point they cut off and stop talking to people, which limits their understanding of what’s going on city-wide. I would say my openness to talk to people—even those who disagree with me—is something I’m very proud of.” Those who served with Woodman appreciated

his methods of ensuring opinions from community members were taken into account, particularly when discussing important issues. “He always did his research, he asked really good questions, he looked into the issues that were before us in depth and tried to also understand how the community felt about it,” said Laura Joseph, a former member of the Helena City Council who served alongside Woodman during his final two terms. “I thought that was a really great way to go about coming to a decision, especially on the issues that were more difficult. I just really appreciated his approach to municipal government and his dedication to having a complete picture.” Throughout his time on the council—and even after his tenure came to an end in November 2025—Woodman has remained committed to showing up for events. He is always there to help, often in festive attire for the occasion, and plays an important role in helping make Helena’s signature events memorable for those who attend. Helena has often been described as a special place to call home, and the service of people like Woodman is a significant reason why.

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AGAINST ALL ODDS

How Jake Kruse turned a one-year high school career into a college football dream BY DANIEL LOCKE PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN ATHLETICS AND FILE 34 CityOfHelena.org

On a cool fall day at Auburn University, Jake Kruse was completing homework in his Cambridge Hall dorm room, but that’s not what was on his mind. He was longing to get back out onto the football field. Kruse only had one year of high school football—or any tackle football experience for that matter—but he set his mind to a goal: he was going to join Auburn’s football team as a walkon. Anyone who is familiar with college athletics knows how difficult the journey is for walk-on athletes. They put in the same amount of work as scholarship athletes, often more, and don’t get

anywhere near the recognition for the role they play in to help the program. Despite his awareness of the long days and often thankless tasks that would occupy his life and force him to surrender a traditional college experience if he was successful, Kruse knew this was something he wanted to do. Growing up as a baseball player, Kruse made his mark on the diamond for Helena. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, he decided it was time for a change when school, athletics and other activities resumed. He knew football was something he wanted to try. “I decided to make the switch and signed up CityOfHelena.org 35

for football, went through summer training, then there we were, I was on the team,” Kruse said. “I think that’s the most fun I’ve had playing a sport, that one season I was on the football team.” Oftentimes, people have to wait for an extended period of time to see if a big decision pays off. That was not the case for Kruse’s decision to pursue football, as he made an impactful play during his first game with the Huskies. During Helena’s 43-0 win over Dallas County to open the 2020 season, Kruse returned the opening kickoff of the second half for a touchdown. This moment gave him the assurance that he was right where he was supposed to be. 36 CityOfHelena.org

“It hit me in the chest off the bounce and I bobbled it; it took me a few seconds to pick it up,” Kruse said. “Once I picked it up, I just looked up, took a few steps and there was a giant hole. I just took off and ran straight and to the right. I went all the way.” After graduating from Helena in May 2021, Kruse headed to Auburn to pursue a degree in engineering. He had entered a new chapter in his life, but there was something missing. Kruse loved watching the Tigers play from the student section while hanging out with his friends, but the more football he watched, the more he missed playing.

“Once I was done with high school football, I loved it so much and I didn’t want to stop. I had only gotten a small taste of it,” Kruse said. “I heard they (Auburn) were having a walk-on tryout. I said, ‘I’m probably not good enough to be on a college football team, but the worst they can say is no.’ I thought it would be cool, and I hadn’t gotten to experience as much football as I wanted to. So I went to that, and the rest is history.” When Kruse received the phone call that informed him he made the team and turned his dreams of putting on a helmet and shoulder pads again a reality, he could hardly believe it.

The first thing he did was let his parents know that watching Auburn football games would mean significantly more to them when the 2022 season began. Joe Kruse, Jake’s father, was overcome with pride and emotion when Jake told him the good news. “I thought he had the talent to do it, but I wasn’t sure if it would happen,” Joe said. “I was very proud of him.” When Jake joined the Tigers, he knew the work had just begun. He had spent his time with the Huskies as a cornerback, and Auburn wanted to use him as a wide receiver. He had to learn a new CityOfHelena.org 37

position while adjusting to the college level. Making it as a walk-on would require an intense dedication to the program, and it was a challenge he was more than willing to accept. “The intensity is way more riled up,” Jake said of the adjustment from high school football to playing in the SEC. “I think that just goes with being an SEC school with such a profound football history and wanting to be the best. It was a lot of hard work.” The routine for SEC football players is a demanding one, and it took time for Jake to adjust. “You would have a 6:30 a.m. meal, then you’d 38 CityOfHelena.org

have class, then you’d have weights,” Jake said. “You’d have lunch, then you’d have class again, then you’d have practice, then you’d have film, you’d have to come home and do homework and then do it all over again.” Once Kruse adjusted to the difficult task of being a member of Auburn’s football team while managing his studies, he managed to grow as a student and athlete simultaneously. “All the intensity took a toll, but it was definitely worth it,” Jake said. “It made the team better and more centered on each other.” The life of a walk-on isn’t easy, and Jake had moments where he questioned if all the hard

work he was putting in was really worth it. Regardless of what was going on inside his head, Kruse stayed dedicated to the process and worked as hard as he could to make a difference for the program. “There were definitely days where I didn’t know if I wanted to keep doing it,” Jake said. “Some days it didn’t feel worth it, especially with the lack of playing time. I knew signing up it was going to be like that. That’s something you accept as a walk-on, and you try to overcome it. You try to get to a place where you can be a star player, but it’s not going to happen that way for everyone.”

The large amount of effort Jake was putting in was worth it. Now that his time with the Tigers has come to an end, he has memories and skills he will get to carry with him for the rest of his life. “It was a hard decision to keep going, but in the end, it really wasn’t because I was having the most fun I’ve ever had with my teammates and all of the stuff we were doing,” Jake said. While Jake didn’t always know it, his presence made an impact on the players and coaches around him. He was considered a leader in Auburn’s wide receivers unit, and his presence is missed. CityOfHelena.org 39

“I heard they (Auburn) were having a walk-on tryout. I said, ‘I’m probably not good enough to be on a college football team, but the worst they can say is no.’ I thought it would be cool, and I hadn’t gotten to experience as much football as I wanted to. So I went to that, and the rest is history.” -JAKE KRUSE

40 CityOfHelena.org

“He was a natural leader, a hard worker,” said Marcus Davis, Auburn’s wide receivers coach for the majority of Jake’s time with the program, when reflecting on what Jake brought to the team. “Everything he did, he did it with intent and purpose.” Jake served the Tigers as a leader even though he didn’t get to step on the field much, and that’s the impression he left behind after graduating. “It’s a vital role because those dudes work the hardest and they’re doing all the things required of a student athlete, but they probably aren’t getting the reward of playing,” Davis said. “To see guys like Jake do that and lead at the same time, it’s just a blessing to be around.” With his football and college days behind him, Jake has started his career as an engineer. While he may not be lacing up his cleats to do his job anymore, he still uses skills that he learned during his time as a Tiger. “The time management has definitely been the number one thing,” Jake said. “If I can build a team in an office setting, it’s going to bring me closer to what feels more comfortable with me.” From a passion to turn one year of high school

football experience into a college football career, to a passion to perform his job to the best of his ability, Jake possesses a work ethic that is hard to replicate. While this was a trait he had prior to joining the Auburn football program, his experience as a Tiger undoubtedly strengthened it.

CityOfHelena.org 41

FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES

Lighting up the season / i č Õ> i i >

42 CityOfHelena.org

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CityOfHelena.org 43

FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES

Spreading Christmas cheer / i x{Ì > Õ> i i > À ÃÌ >Ã *>À>`i Ì « >Vi ->ÌÕÀ`>Þ] iV° È] Ã«Ài>` } `>Þ cheer throughout the community. This year’s theme, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” was a big Ì] vi>ÌÕÀ } i À>L i y >ÌÃ > ` V ÃÌÕ iÃ°

44 CityOfHelena.org

CityOfHelena.org 45

FOR THE MAGAZINE/MARKEE CANADA

On the ﬂoor >Ã iÌL> Ãi>Ã Ã vÕ ÃÜ }] > ` Ì i i i > } -V L ÞÃ > ` } À Ã Ìi> Ã >Ài ` } iÛiÀÞÌ } « ÃÃ L i Ì > i Ì i V Õ ÌÞ «À Õ` iÛiÀÞ Ì i Ì iÞ ÃÌi« Ì i V ÕÀÌ°

46 CityOfHelena.org

CityOfHelena.org 47

OUT & ABOUT

HELENA CHRISTMAS PARADE

FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES

One of Helena’s most beloved holiday traditions presented local people with an opportunity to spread Christmas cheer during the 54th Annual Helena Christmas Parade. 1.

Billy Rosener

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Dominga Gardner

Kenneth Paschal

Chris Miller

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Leigh Hulsey

Dan Dearing

10. Alex Miller

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CityOfHelena.org 49

MY HELENA BRITINI BLACK

Hairstylist at The Uptown Salon

Southern charm A charming place to call home Helena has a small town feel that drew my husband, Dustin, and I here. Even though Helena has grown so much over the years, it still holds tight to that classic Southern charm. We chose to move here almost three years ago because we wanted a place that felt cozy, welcoming and family centered—Helena has been all of that and more. From friendly neighbors to beautiful local spots, this town gives us everything we hoped for when raising our boys.

Parks and playtime

Husky pride Cheering on Helena’s sports teams During the Spring and Fall, we spend most of our time watching our oldest son, Brodie, play baseball or flag football. Our youngest son, Cooper, will start t-ball for the first time this Spring so we will be adding extra park days to our schedule soon! We love the energy at the games especially at HSC. There is nothing like cheering on our boys and all their friends! So proud of all the parents that step up to volunteer to make every season a great time! GO HUSKIES!

Traditions The things that make the community special Helena knows how to celebrate the seasons. We love the town events, especially when the mayor and volunteers decorate the pavilion with pumpkins in the fall, and again with twinkling lights during Christmas.

Education and the best teachers A community that prioritizes learning One of our favorite things about Helena is the incredible school system. The wonderful teachers, staff and families create such a welcoming environment where kids truly thrive! There’s something so special about seeing the same friendly faces at school events, sports and even the grocery store. It feels like everyone is rooting for your children to succeed, and as a mom, that means everything to me. This tight night community is always there to help, encourage and just be present.

Spending quality time outside We spend a lot of time outdoors, and Helena’s parks are some of our boys’ favorite places. Whether it’s running around the playground and riding bikes on the trails at Lee Springs Park or playing pickleball at Joe Tucker Park, there’s always something to do. Having beautiful, well-kept outdoor spaces so close to home makes it easy for us to slow down, unplug and enjoy simple moments together. We are all about making memories and this town has been a dream for us. You will always catch us playing outside in our yard and talking to everybody walking by.

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HELENA THE MAGAZINE

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