Encountering Mercedes Helms, a Great Bend teacher, is an experience unlike most others. Panamanian born and bred, her outlook and attitude with which she approaches life is infectious and being in her presence is sure to include the unexpected. 

That describes the time, in 2013, many in Barton County experienced the pure energy and joy with which she can perform. That year, Habitat for Humanity held an event called Barton County’s Got Talent. Acts from all over the county competed for the coveted prize. Mercedes Helms, in her traditional Panamanian costume, demonstrated dance from her native land and other Hispanic nations.