Helena – The Magazine July 2026

H E LEN A

TOSSING THE CAPS

CELEBRATING HHS’ CLASS OF ‘26

A STAR ON THE RISE

HELENA’S PAIGE BURTON SPEAKS ON ROLE IN THAT’S AMORE!

OLD TOWN LIVE

THE HISTORY BEHIND HELENA’S BELOVED SUMMER TRADITION

A letter from the mayor

Carefully coordinating progress for the future

Progress does not happen overnight.

Real progress takes patience, the right leadership, and a team committed to doing things the right way. Here in Helena, we are laying the foundation for long-term success, and that starts

with making sure we have the right people in the right positions.

One of the most important steps we have taken is strengthening our city’s leadership structure with key roles like our Finance Director and

We are also working to build a new culture at City Hall, one centered on teamwork, professionalism, service and accountability.

Personnel Director. These positions are not just titles, they are essential to building a stronger, more accountable and more organized city government for you. With the right people in these roles, our city is better positioned to plan responsibly, manage resources wisely, support our employees and prepare for future growth.

We are also working to build a new culture at City Hall, one centered on teamwork, professionalism, service and accountability. That means moving forward with a “Team Helena” mentality, where every department, every employee, every volunteer, and every leader understands that we are all working

toward the same goal: serving you, the people of Helena well.

Mayor Billy Rosener

I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding employees and volunteers who serve our city every day. They are the ones helping turn the ship, improve operations, and create a stronger future for our community. Their dedication often happens behind the scenes, but their impact is seen all across Helena.

There is still work to do, and we will not fix everything overnight. But the foundation is being set. The culture is changing. The right people are stepping into the right places. And together, as Team Helena, we are moving our city forward.

Thank you for your continued support, patience, and belief in Helena’s future.

In this issue

The class of 2026 has walked across the stage and into its next chapter

From Helena to the big screen

34 Helena’s summer special

The journey of Helena’s signature summer spectacle

Sydney

PHOTOGRAPHY

Publisher

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

OLD TOWN LIVE

JULY 3

6 P.M.

Old Town District

Come out to Helena’s historic Old Town district on Friday, July 3 for the return of the Independence Day edition of Old Town Live, one of Helena’s most beloved annual events.

THE GUIDE

JULY 4

Fourth of July

ALL DAY

The Fourth of July will fall on a Saturday. Be sure to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary responsibly, and exercise caution when shooting fireworks.

EVERY SATURDAY

Helena Market Days

8 A.M.. Cahaba Lily Park

Come out to Cahaba Lily Park and shop from local farmers, bakers and artisans each Saturday from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m.

AROUND TOWN

JULY 1 | 9 A.M.

Senior bingo at Chick-fil-A

JULY 2 | 10 A.M.

Senior bingo and 4th of July celebration

JULY 2 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library

JULY 3 | 11 A.M. Senior Mah Jong

JULY 3 | 6 P.M. Old Town Live

JULY 4 | ALL DAY Fourth of July

JULY 7 | 8:45 A.M. Senior total body conditioning

JULY 7 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library

JULY 8 | 9 A.M.

Senior bingo at Chick-fil-A

JULY 9 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library

JULY 10 | 11 A.M. SENIOR MAH JONG

JULY 11 | 8 A.M. Helena Market Days

JULY 13 | 6 P.M. City Council meeting

JULY 14 | 8:45 A.M. Senior total body conditioning

JULY 14 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library

JULY 15 | 9 A.M.

Senior bingo at Chick-fil-A

JULY 16 | 10 A.M.

Senior potluck and bingo

JULY 16 | 11 A.M. Storytime at the Library

JULY 17 | 11 A.M.

Senior Mah Jong

JULY 18 | 8 A.M.

Helena Market Days

JULY 21 | 8:45 A.M.

Senior total body conditioning

JULY 21 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the Library

JULY 22 | 9 A.M.

Senior bingo at Chick-fil-A

JULY 23 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the Library

JULY 24 | 11 A.M.

Senior Mah Jong

JULY 25 | 8 A.M.

Helena Market Days

JULY 27 | 6 P.M.

City Council meeting

JULY 28 | 8:45 A.M.

Senior total body conditioning

JULY 28 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the Library

JULY 29 | 9 A.M.

Senior bingo at Chick-fil-A

JULY 30 | 11 A.M.

Storytime at the Library

JULY 31 | 11 A.M.

Senior Mah Jong

JULY 3

OLD TOWN LIVE

6 P.M.

OLD TOWN DISTRICT

Come out to Helena’s historic Old Town district on Friday, July 3 for the return of the Independence Day edition of Old Town Live, one of Helena’s most beloved annual events.

HELENA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

Monday, July 13 & 27

PRE-COUNCIL AT 5 P.M.,

CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 6 P.M.

HELENA CITY HALL

The Helena City Council’s two meetings for the month of July will take place on Monday, July 13 and Monday July 27. The work session will begin at 5 p.m., and the council meeting will follow at 6 p.m.

In the News

HELENA APPOINTS KYMBERLEY ROLLAN AS CITY CLERK

Kymberley Rollan will now serve the city of Helena as its city clerk.

HELENA APPOINTS PATTI MORROW AS CITY TREASURER

Patti Morrow will now serve the city of Helena as its city treasurer, after the duties of the role were separated from the office of city clerk.

HELENA ACKNOWLEDGES PTSD AWARENESS MONTH

The Helena City Council acknowledged Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month at its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, June 8.

HELENA HONORS RYAN SPANN FOR U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY SELECTION

Ryan Spann, a member of Helena High School’s 2026 graduating class, will continue his education at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Spring, Colorado.

TONIC ROCKS THIRD OLD TOWN LIVE SHOW OF 2026

The third installment of the 2026 Old Town Live series is in the books, and Tonic provided the crowd with a memorable experience in Helena’s historic district.

LANDON GASKINS COMES HOME TO HELENA AS NEW GIRLS SOCCER COACH

Helena named Landon Gaskins as its new girls soccer coach as the former Husky player and Calera and Oak Mountain coach comes home to his alma mater as just its second head coach in program history.

THREE HUSKIES EARN GIRLS SOCCER ALL-COUNTY HONORS

Baileigh Rumage and Addison Foxworth brought home First Team All-County selections, Kate Hendrix earned a place on the Second Team and Evelyn Elliott, Ava Garner, Henley Havens and Molly Shelton were included as honorable mentions.

HELENA

VOLLEYBALL POURS INTO NEXT GENERATION OF PLAYERS AT CAMP

Helena held its first volleyball camp under Ainsley Schultz and provided a week of fun and games to build the foundation of the program.

NEWEST HUSKY ALUMNI ENCOURAGED TO ‘KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR OPPORTUNITY’

BY DANIEL LOCK

PHOTO BY ALEC ETHEREDGE

In a week where many schools throughout Shelby County are honoring their graduates, the newest batch of Helena High School alumni were among the first to move their tassels.

Thousands of friends and family members packed into the Pete Hanna Center on the campus of Samford University on the afternoon of Monday, May 18, to join in the celebration of the 2026 HHS graduating class.

Around 1 p.m., “Pomp and Circumstance” began to play throughout the arena, and the graduates were led out onto the floor by the faculty members who played a role in helping them reach the milestone of graduation.

After everyone was seated, Senior Class President Lola Wade approached the microphone to welcome everyone in attendance to the ceremony.

Wade took the opportunity to thank those who came out to support the graduates, as well as the educators who have impacted them along the way.

“I would like to take a moment to thank all of the teachers, parents, friends and family who are here today,” Wade said. “Your dedication and support to each of these students is something that will never be taken for granted.”

Wade also included a moment of silence in her address to remember Michelle Griffin, a Spanish teacher at HHS who passed away in September.

Following Wade’s closing remarks, Senior Class Vice President Shelby Carter led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. The senior choir members performed a song, and Principal Ashley Bahr recognized the special guests in attendance.

Helena Mayor Billy Rosener then approached the podium to offer his remarks to the graduates. He encouraged them to avoid shying away from opportunities that present themselves to them, even if they appear uncomfortable at first.

“There’s just a few things I would like you to think about as you move into this next chapter,” Rosener said. “Whether you’re heading off to college or going to work, life is changing. Keep an eye out for those opportunities that are a little, or maybe even a lot, outside of your plans. When these opportunities present themselves, they may deal with things that take you out of your comfort zone, and that’s ok. Getting outside of your comfort zone is where you can grow.”

Jon Cheever, the salutatorian of the class, encouraged his classmates to avoid growing content in their knowledge and to embrace new things whenever possible.

“Be curious,” Cheever said. “Go learn and research this wonderfully complex world we live in. Try things, just to broaden your horizons. Explore topics you thought you disliked from a different environment, just because why not? You don’t need some grand reason to change, life is all about change.”

Maycie Lewis, HHS’ 2026 valedictorian, reminded her peers that their value is not determined by anyone else.

“There are different measures of success, and you can either strive for the next thing for the rest of your life, or you can realize that what you do does not determine who you are,” Lewis said. “Your identity rests in who you are, not what you do.”

Bahr returned to the podium for the final address before the presentation of diplomas, and assured her students that they are equipped to handle whatever life may throw at them.

“What I want you to know is this: whatever lies ahead, you are prepared,” Bahr said. “Your parents, your grandparents, guardians, teachers, staff and administrators have all played a role in helping you reach this moment. Even if you are still figuring out your next step, you have the skills you need.”

When Bahr finished, Wade returned to the microphone and presented her fellow students as candidates for graduation.

When they all finished walking across the stage, they moved their tassels, tossed their caps into the air, sang the alma mater as HHS students for the final time and sealed the envelope on this chapter of their lives.

Update from THE COUNCIL

Cathy Hammann CITY COUNCIL MEMBER

Hello Helena!

Summer has arrived, and with it comes an exciting season of community events and family fun in the wonderful city of Helena. From free concerts and the Farmers Market to the Summer Reading Program at the Library and the Helena Fire Department’s popular popup splash pads, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. It is one of the busiest and most vibrant times of the year in our city.

As you fill your calendars with activities, I encourage everyone to take time to enjoy the season with family and friends. These moments spent together create memories that last a lifetime and help strengthen the bonds that make Helena such a special community.

One exciting addition coming to Helena is a permanent stage at the Helena Amphitheater. This generous donation from US Steel will provide even more opportunities for community events, concerts and celebrations for years to come. Construction is expected to be underway when you attend the Old Town Live American 250 Celebration and Concert on July 3, so be sure to look at this exciting project as it begins to take shape.

I am also honored to announce the Blessing Ceremony and Opening of Helena’s Safe Haven Anonymous Infant Surrender Box, which was held on Tuesday, June 23, at 2 p.m. at Helena Fire Station No. 2. We invited the community to join us for this meaningful event as we dedicate a resource that will serve not only Helena but also surrounding communities.

This project has been in development and testing for the past six months and represents the collaboration of many dedicated individuals. Special thanks go to Erin Welborn, District Court Judge, whose funding made this important addition possible and whose confidence in me helped bring the project forward for Council approval. I would also like to recognize Helena Fire Department Captain Lindsey for his leadership and commitment in turning this vision into reality.

My fellow Council members and I remain deeply committed to preserving and enhancing the qualities that make Helena an outstanding city for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve this community and continue working toward a bright future for all.

Have a safe, happy and memorable summer!

Cathy Hammann

match his found Anders

Anders was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition that was affecting his immune health and significantly impacting his overall development. His doctors determined his best treatment option was a bone marrow transplant, and luckily Anders found his match and received his transplant. Now Anders is reaching new developmental milestones and is starting to get back to being a normal kid.

Childrens AL •org

We are here in your neighborhood at Greenvale Pediatrics - Alabaster. Call 205-663-9550 to schedule an appointment.

GREETINGS FROM THE JANE B. HOLMES LIBRARY

GLibrary Director Dan Dearing

Greetings from a hot and fun July at the Jane B. Holmes Public Library! This summer has featured an array of programs, events, prizes and fun. The theme this year for the summer reading program is Unearth a Story which underscores the joy of discovery that reading brings and that every person and every community have stories waiting to be found and shared through books, programs and local knowledge. There is still time to stop by for one last look, and, of course, there are always plenty of great books to check out anytime.

Running concurrently with the summer reading program, America is turning 250 YEARS OLD on July 4, 2026! The city of Helena is recognizing this historic event, and the library is no exception. There have been book displays, a visit from a historical figure, fun programs and more. The Helena library has a great collection of books about the history of America and Alabama for all ages, which can be found on the library catalog. Now is a great time to

learn about our history!

As the summer shifts to the long, hot days of August, don’t forget about Storytime with Mrs. Erin! This a fun event with stories, singalongs 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.

State Representative Arnold Mooney visited the library with a grant check to assist the library with a variety of projects including purchasing books to celebrate America turning 250 years old. We appreciate his service in Montgomery, and his continued support of the Jane B. Holmes Public Library in Helena.

Visit the library soon, and keep reading all summer long!

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

Month’s Top Picks

50 STATES THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL LIST: THE BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN EVERY STATE

By DK Travel | Adult Nonfiction

Whether you’re planning a once-in-alifetime road trip, mapping out your next big family vacation or on a mission to tick off all 50 states, this is your ultimate roadmap.

AT THE SUMMER LAKE

By Daniela Kulot | Easy/Picture

It’s the heat of summer, and Squirrel is sure he knows how to cool off. But now he needs help from his water-shy friends.

FIREWORKS

By Matthew Burgess | Easy/Picture

A joyful picture book for celebrating the Fourth of July and America’s 250th Anniversary.

KING ARTHUR’S BAKING COMPANY’S BOOK OF PIZZA

By King Arthur Baking Company | Adult Nonfiction

The bakers at King Arthur Baking Company researched, tested and tasted hundreds of pizzas and cooking methods to develop the most comprehensive book yet dedicated to the art and science of making pizza at home.

SUMMER STATE OF MIND

By Kristy Woodson Harvey | Adult Fiction

This heartwarming novel is a moving story of second chances and unexpected love in coastal Carolina.

THE

FOURTH OPTION

By Jack Carr | Adult Fiction

When law enforcement, the courts and the prison system fail, there is a fourth and final option in this new thriller series.

LANDON GASKINS

Tell me a bit about yourself and some information you might share when you first meet someone.

My name is Landon Gaskins. I am thrilled to join the faculty at Helena High School as a history teacher and the girls’ head varsity soccer coach. I am entering my fifth year in education, having worked for Shelby County Schools at Calera High School and Oak Mountain High School. I hold a bachelor’s degree from Troy University and a master’s from the University of Montevallo. Outside of work, I am a proud husband to Audrey and father to Beckham.

What inspired you to start coaching soccer?

My love for the game. I feel like the sport taught me so much, and I wanted to provide the same positive experience to others.

How old were you when you got into coaching?

I got my first head coaching Job at Calera High School when I was 23. I made a lot of great memories there!

Has there ever been a coach or mentor who made a huge impact on you? What did they teach you?

My father. He was the one who motivated me to get into soccer as a kid and was always someone I looked up to. He taught me the importance of mentality and passion for the sport.

What excites you the most about coaching soccer for the Huskies?

Coming back to coach at a school that I made so many core memories at. It was always a dream of mine to coach at Helena High School.

What is your favorite soccer memory?

Wining the 2016 State Championship, my Junior year at Helena High, with my best friends. It is a memory I will never forget.

When you’re not at school or coaching, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

When I’m not at school or coaching, I enjoy spending time with my son Beckham and wife Audrey!

Education

First, tell me more about yourself.

Originally, I’m from the West Jefferson/Walker County area of the state. I attended Sumiton Christian High School, graduating from there in 2009. After high school, I attended Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi, where I played baseball for the Majors all four years.

I just celebrated my 11th wedding anniversary with my wife Devon, and we have a daughter, Landyn Grace, who is going into the first grade this upcoming school year.

Aside from teaching and coaching, I am an outdoorsman. Bowhunting whitetails and spring turkey hunting have helped fill my downtime between seasons since I was very young.

Can you tell me about your career in education and coaching?

I have been fortunate to serve in the Helena school system for coming up on a decade now. Serving as a Science teacher, mainly in the physics realm, and coaching both football and baseball. Prior to Helena, I started my career fresh out of college at Fultondale High School where I taught a plethora of science courses and coached football, basketball and served as the head baseball coach. I worked at Fultondale for four years before coming to Helena.

What kind of impact do the students and athletes you work with have on your life?

Every day I get to come to work with a purpose! Each student/athlete requires something different from me each day. Some need academic help, some want to get bigger, faster and stronger, and others just need a positive adult figure to love them a little. Either way, I get to try to provide what each individual needs. They provide me with a purpose.

What makes working with high school students special?

These young people are right on the cusp of adulthood, and I truly believe that at this time in their lives, it is crucial that they are challenged in a space where they have a chance to fall short safely. Students and athletes at this age are in a great spot to learn from those mistakes or shortfalls while still having their parents and teachers as “safety nets” for a soft landing. Whether it be a tough class or a tough practice, this is the time for our kids to be challenged.

Do you have a message you would like to say to the Helena community?

Thank you so much for trusting me and the rest of the staff at Helena with your kids! They truly are some of the best kids around! I cannot wait to see everyone on the Hilltop this coming fall. God bless, y’all and go Huskies!

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MOE. PUTS ON SHOW AT SECOND OLD TOWN LIVE OF 2026

BY DANIEL LOCKE PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES

With the weather continuing to get warmer and outdoor events happening more frequently throughout Shelby County, the second Old Town Live event of the 2026 season was an edition of the beloved Helena concert series that won’t soon be forgotten.

moe. was the first Old Town Live act of the season to get announced, and the crowd reflected the magnitude of the act. More than 3,000 people came out to the Helena Amphitheater on Saturday, May 16 for the free event.

In addition to the double set from moe., those who came out had the opportunity to take in the scenery, interact with friends, family and other community members and enjoy food from local vendors.

The children in attendance were able to enjoy the new and improved kids’ area, ensuring that people of all ages were able to have an enjoyable evening.

Jeremy Allen of the Helena Old Town Board was pleased with how the event went, and he was thankful to see so many people in attendance.

“I think a highlight was the huge crowd,” Allen said. “We clocked it at a little over 3,000 people in the

park. It was just a good, fun environment, there were a lot of kids running around, fun stuff like that.”

While most Old Town Live shows have an opening act, this one did not. moe. was the only band to perform, and they did not take the opportunity lightly.

“They were the only band this time, we didn’t have an opener,” Allen said. “They rocked for about two hours and some change playing some good music. I heard lots of great feedback online, people really enjoyed it.”

Having a band of moe.’s caliber on the lineup is a testament to the growth of Old Town Live since it started.

“It was huge for them to come down,” Allen said. “They talked about how great the environment and the community was, being next to the creek and the waterfall. Everybody was super pleased with the setup and how well it was run.”

The next Old Town Live event on the 2026 schedule is set to take place on Saturday, June 13, when Tonic and Cowboy Mouth make their way into Helena for a night of musical entertainment. The gates will open at 5:30 p.m.

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 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’S RISING STAR

Paige Burton completes biggest role of acting career

BY DANIEL LOCKE

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY PAIGE BURTON AND FILE

TThe city of Helena is the proud home of numerous talented individuals who have excelled in various art forms, and actors who have had time on the big screen are not an exception.

Paige Burton, a 15-year Helena resident, represents this category well, as she recently finished one of the biggest roles of her career to this point. She spent two months in Biloxi, Mississippi completing her scenes.

She was cast in a soon-to-be-released musical called “That’s Amore!,” starring John Travolta

with Mira Sorvino. The film is directed by Nick Vallelonga, an Academy Award-winner.

Acting is nothing new to Burton, as she has been on stage for most of her life. She started acting in commercials during her time as a college student, and after finishing school, made the decision to pursue a full-time acting career.

“I started acting about five years ago in movies, but I spent most of my life doing stage stuff such as community theater,” Burton said. “In 2023, I decided to try to start pursuing some

real acting full-time. I was just booking anything and everything I could.”

The filmmakers for “That’s Amore!” were in search of an actress to play the wife of Vito, one of the movie’s characters, who is played by Johnny Williams, who starred in Goodfellas.

“I’ve worked with a couple of different casting agencies, and there’s one in town called Goleman Casting,” Burton said. “It’s run by a husband and wife team who also act. Goleman was reached out to in order to fill spots for ‘That’s Amore!.’ I was probably one of 500 people who auditioned for that role, and I really didn’t think I was going to get it.

“Normally, I just get emails from casting people letting me know if I got a role or not, but on this one, it was such a big deal that

Goleman called me to tell me I had gotten it. It was a big deal to them as well to get the casting credits in the movie.”

One of the contributing factors to Burton landing the role is her close resemblance to the wife of the character Williams played in Goodfellas.

When Burton arrived in Biloxi to shoot scenes she’s in, one of the biggest surprises of her career came, and that was acting alongside one of the most well-known stars in the film industry.

“I’m still kind of processing it all because it has been a dream come true,” Burton said. “I got to act in several scenes with John Travolta. The biggest scene of the movie for me is the scene that’s at the very beginning of the movie, and I got to act with him.”

The experience was such a special one for

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION

Helena resident Paige Burton is an actress who just completed one of the biggest roles of her career in a soon-to-be-released movie titled “That’s Amore!.” She had the opportunity to work alongside some well-known actors, most notably John Travolta.

Burton that when the filming process came to an end, she went and got a permanent reminder of the moment to commemorate how meaningful the experience was.

“It was actually the last scene I shot of the whole thing,” Burton said. “When I wrapped with that scene and I left from set, I went and got a tattoo of the name of the movie on my arm. From this point on, if I start getting bigger roles, which hopefully will start happening, I don’t know if I’ll ever top getting to act with John Travolta. Getting to be in a movie and act with John Travolta is such a big deal. I still can’t even really comprehend that I got to do it.”

When Burton returned home to Helena after the conclusion of the filming process, she brought a lot

I love Helena. I told them how they need to come see the waterfall and how I live in one of the best cities in Alabama. I talked a lot about Helena while I was there. It is very special to me. We love being here. I love being back home after being gone for two months.

– Paige Burton ”

another one of the film’s more seasoned veterans who went out of his way to help her make the most of the opportunity.

“One particular thing that happened to me was Chazz Palminteri telling me on my second day of filming that he makes sure someone who’s not a big-name actor in the film gets a lot of screen time,” Burton said. “There was a scene where he was supposed to be standing in front of me, but he told the director to have me in front of him.

“He told me later that somebody did that for him, and the next movie he did was A Bronx Tale. He got his face on screen, and somebody saw him and then he booked the biggest movie of his life.”

While Burton had a memorable experience in Biloxi, she missed Helena

while she was away and is happy to be home. She took advantage of every chance that came her way to talk about where she lives, and telling her co-actors about Helena was one of her favorite parts of filming the movie.

“I love Helena,” Burton said. “I told them how they need to come see the waterfall and how I live in one of the best cities in Alabama. I talked a lot about Helena while I was there. It is very special to me. We love being here. I love being back home after being gone for two months.”

While an official release date for “That’s Amore!” has not been announced at this time, Burton anticipates it will be soon. Helena residents will have the opportunity to see one of their own on the big screen.

SUMMER’S SOUND

The legacy of Old Town Live

BY DANIEL LOCKE

PHOTOS BY JEREMY

RAINES

AND CONTRIBUTED BY BRIAN

WWith the COVID-19 pandemic still in place, a group of Helena residents had a vision for an event that could bring the community together while maintaining the social distancing guidelines that were in place.

The group came together to put the idea of an outdoor concert series in place, eventually becoming known as the Helena Old Town Board, now more commonly referred to as the HOT Board. Two of the founding members were President Jeremy Allen and Vice President Brian Hayes.

“At the formation of the board, one of our core values was to have tourism and economic growth for the Old Town area,” Allen said. “In the past, we’d had Movies in the Park and other events, but we wanted to try something a little bit different. That’s why we went the concert route.”

The idea of a concert series was an exciting one for board and community members alike, as music has a way of bringing people together, which is

A concert series was different from other events that had previously taken place in the community, but it was a challenge the board was willing to tackle head-on.

exactly what the doctor ordered after people had been apart for so long.

“Coming out of COVID, our board was still meeting remotely via Zoom,” Hayes said. “We wanted something that could bring the community together that had been locked up for over a year. Most of the board always went to concerts and loved music and the outdoors. We had the idea to start up a summer concert series similar to what we grew up with in Birmingham’s Summerfest.”

The concert series was named Old Town Live, and the date of the first event was set. It took place on April 3, 2021, weeks after a tornado had swept through the community.

Regardless, the show was still held, and a new tradition was born. The event featured performances from The Pine Hill Haints, Drayton Farley and Deadwood.

“It was just a small stage and a couple of 10x10 tents for VIPs, some coolers and tables and probably a few hundred people,” Allen said. “The concerts had a little bit of traction, and we started keeping up with how much traction other businesses were gaining from people coming down for those. As we saw growth the next year and had a little more sponsorship and investment, we took the next step and grew it a little bit bigger.”

Despite its humble beginnings, Old Town Live grew fast and quickly became one of the most anticipated things happening in Helena each year. This led to an increased level of investment in the series, which allowed it to reach new heights.

“No one really expected it, it just kind of organically grew,” Hayes said. “We started getting sponsors and working with leaders in the community, both in Helena and the county. They saw the value in what we were doing as a board, as a bunch of volunteers doing it for free. They loved the arts and wanted to be a part of it.”

Allen explained how the series would not have been able to grow into what it is today without the help of its sponsors and community partners.

“We stepped up our game a bit more and got more corporate sponsorships, which makes it all possible,” Allen said. “Without Central State Bank staying our

title sponsor throughout these years and believing in it, it wouldn’t be possible to even pull these things off.”

Despite not charging for admission, the Old Town Live events are able to make a positive impact on the local economy.

“We’ve done our best through and with the help of the city to track and be transparent about the economic impact that these concerts bring,” Allen said. “We ended up taking over the Fourth of July event a couple of years ago. The event is made possible by the city, Discover Shelby, Central State Bank and our other sponsors. They make it possible and keep it all free.”

Not charging for tickets and providing an inexpensive opportunity for families to enjoy live music together in a safe environment is another one of the primary goals of the series. With the caliber of acts the HOT board has been able to book, that goal has been accomplished time and time again.

“Our goal is to bring in national touring acts, not bands you would go see at a bar on a Friday night,” Hayes said. “If parents want to bring their children, they aren’t spending $50-60, if not more, on a ticket. If their kid gets tired after an hour or two, or 30 minutes, and they need to go home, they haven’t wasted money. It gives parents and families a chance to bring their kids down, introduce them to music they listen to and have the concert experience without breaking the bank.”

Old Town Live has been headlined by some wellknown names since its inception. 49 Winchester, moe., and Drayton Farley are only some of the most notable. As the series continues to grow, landing bigger acts becomes increasingly important.

Allen described what keeps a band coming back and causes them to put in a good word with other bands about the quality of the event.

“Honestly, it’s professionalism,” Allen said. “Each

band has certain requirements for things they need. Some of the things from the outside looking in are kind of ridiculous. For one show, we had to have all purple Skittles. But it’s about doing the little things like that right. Making sure they have a comfortable place to hang out. It takes everybody showing up 100 percent.”

Old Town Live has become a staple of the Helena community, and for good reason. Seeing the series continue to grow and provide the best experience possible for those in attendance motivates Allen, Hayes and the rest of the board to give it their all each year.

OLD TOWN TUNES

The second Old Town Live event of the 2026 season featured a double set from moe., providing the community with a night of entertainment that will not soon be forgotten.

FOR THE MAGAZINE/JEREMY RAINES

ANOTHER TROPHY ADDED

For the second year in a row, the Helena Huskies made the softball state title game, showing that the success of the 2025 campaign was not a flash in the pan.

MAGAZINE PHOTOS/ANDREW SIMONSON

TURNING THE TASSEL

The newest group of Helena High School graduates have walked across the stage and into the next chapter of their lives.

MAGAZINE PHOTOS/ALEC ETHEREDGE

HELENA BRINGS FUN TO ANNUAL YOUTH SOCCER CAMP

BY ANDREW SIMONSON

PHOTO BY ANDREW SIMONSON

Not every soccer camp’s scrimmages start with walkouts and national anthems like players will do at the World Cup. Not every camp is the Helena Soccer Camp though.

The Helena Huskies boys and girls soccer programs continued their decade-long tradition of camp from June 1-5 at Helena High School, not only teaching skills to the next generation, but having fun doing so.

It’s an approach that keeps kids coming back each and every year, and it’s something that Helena head boys soccer coach Kelly Koch always enjoys seeing the fruits of.

“It has been a great turnout,” Koch said. “We had about 100 kids this year. So had a really good turnout. It’s always a big thing in the community and a lot of kids that have been coming since they’re in kindergarten have been coming every year. And so that’s really cool to see the repeat players coming back every year.”

The camp is broken into two sessions. After dividing into age groups, the campers participate in drills and games during the early morning session. Then, after a popsicle break, they finish out the day with scrimmages,

either within their age groups or with the groups around them.

The age groups range from the youngest kindergartners, who are just learning to dribble and shoot on small, collapsible nets, to the oldest groups honing their set-piece and shooting form on full-size nets.

Leading each of the age groups are the Helena boys and girls soccer players, providing the campers a chance to learn from their favorite Huskies.

While camp provides a platform for hilarious moments, it also gives players a chance to step out of their comfort zone by coaching younger kids. Koch said this week often sets the stage for new leaders to develop, and that development carries into the following season when they lead their teammates on the pitch.

“That is probably one of my favorite parts of the whole week is watching these kids who are goofy, silly, and they really just turn into serious leaders out here,” Koch said. “And it’s really cool to watch the ones that blossom in these leadership roles when you put them as the leader of that particular grade.

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A School System Worth Staying For

A place for children to grow We didn’t choose this neighborhood by chance— we chose it for its schools. Watching both of our children’s journeys from their earliest grades all the way through high school, thriving every step of the way, has confirmed that we made the right call. When a school system earns that kind of trust over nearly two decades, it says everything.

A Place That Feels Like Home

A quiet community feel

There’s a quiet pride that comes with living somewhere you genuinely feel at ease. Our streets are peaceful, our neighbors are good people and we have always felt at home. We value family above all, and finding a neighborhood that reflects those same values has been a wonderful gift.

Helena Marching Band

A Gift We Didn’t Expect

If we’re being honest, nothing has blessed us quite like the Helena Marching Band. What started as an extracurricular became something far greater— lifelong friendships, a true sense of community and a second family built one performance at a time. The lessons learned— teamwork, commitment, showing up for each other—became part of who our children are. We value tradition and family, and Helena delivered both in ways we never expected.

Old Town Charm That Stands the Test of Time

Paying respect to history

There is something remarkable about living near a piece of history. Old Town Helena carries a charm that is unlike anything modern development can replicate—character built over generations, streets that hold memory. What makes it even more special is knowing it is protected, preserved intentionally so that its beauty and history can be enjoyed for generations to come. In a world that moves fast and tears down the old to make way for the new, there is something deeply grounding about a community that chooses to honor its roots. It adds a layer of richness.

P.O. Box 947 • 115 North Main Street

Columbiana, Alabama 35051

Phone: 205-669-3131