By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–Billy Hinds has been one of the more prominent figures in the Helena community throughout the last few decades, the Hinds family invites the Helena community to attend a benefit dinner on his behalf, as he recovers from a recent stroke he suffered.

Hinds was a police officer in the Helena community back when there was just one officer and he served for 25 years on the force.

Hinds’ sister Sue Acton talked about how well known Hinds was throughout the Helena community and his recent health struggles that placed him back in the hospital.

“About 10 years ago he had stroke,” said Acton. “It didn’t hurt him too bad, but he had to leave the police force. Early this year, he went to the doctor and they saw where he had a carotid artery and had to have surgery. It was determined that he had had another stoke and he couldn’t move his right side. He was in the ICU and at the point where he might not get much better. So many people in the community know him and this dinner is just one way to help out with expenses.”

The benefit dinner will be Tuesday, July 14 from 6-8 p.m. at the Helena Sports Complex.

Tickets are $20 a plate and children ages five and under are free. It is an all you can eat catfish and chicken dinner with all the normal fixings. Take outs will also be accepted.

Those wishing to attend should contact Acton at 903-8635 by July 7 to order a ticket.

Tickets will also be sold at the July 3 Helena First Friday event.