Leah Ingram Eagle Content Director (205) 807-0834 leah@jbmcmedia.com
Lurenda Avery Community and School News Editor (205) 767-3362 lurenda@jbmcmedia.com
Shweta Bratina Graphic Designer
Who We Are
Chelsea Magazine tells the stories of the people, places, businesses, and history of Chelsea and surrounding communities. The magazine is published monthly and is available mid-month at locations in Chelsea, Mt Laurel, Westover, Harpersville, Wilsonville, and Columbiana.
Subscriptions by mail are available for $40 per year. Visit jbmcmedia.com/magazine-subscriptions to subscribe, or email subscribe@jbmcmedia.com to request a form to pay by mail.
Does your business want to connect with Chelsea residents? Contact us: 205-883-1877, advertise@jbmcmedia.com, and let’s talk!
All content in this magazine remains the property of JBMC Media, LLC. Any requests to reprint or republish should be directed to matthew@jbmcmedia.com.
Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.
Tony Bratina Cover Designer
Executive Director Gene Rogers and Founder Linda Jones oversee the wonderful programs provided by ACFS. For more about the ACFS, read this month’s cover story beginning on pg. 7.
Photography by Elizabeth Grandy Photography.
There’s a certain magic in the air when September arrives. The long, hot days of summer begin to soften, giving way to crisp mornings, football Fridays, and the warm colors of fall. Autumn has always been my favorite season—I love getting my decorations and warmer clothes out of the attic, enjoying football and fall festivals and enjoying the comforts that make this time of year so special.
In this issue, we’re proud to highlight some of the people and stories that shape Chelsea. Our cover story is about Alabama Childhood Food Solutions, a nonprofit making an incredible impact right here in our community and beyond. Their work ensures that children and families don’t go hungry, and the ripple effect of their efforts is truly inspiring.
We’re also diving into the fast-growing world of pickleball, a sport that has taken Chelsea by storm. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about what all the buzz is about, you’ll enjoy learning why so many are picking up a paddle.
And finally, we reflect on Chelsea’s recent election and what lies ahead as we welcome Mayor Cody Sumners into office. With new leadership comes new opportunities, and we look forward to seeing how our city continues to grow and thrive under the guidance of the city council.
As the season changes, I hope you find time to soak in the beauty of fall and the stories that remind us why Chelsea is such a special place to call home.
Hope you enjoy this month’s issue!
Leah Eagle, Content Director
Filling Stomachs, Hearts
How Alabama Childhood Food Solutions is Fighting Hunger Across Central Alabama
BY LEAH INGRAM EAGLE
On a Monday morning at the Alabama Childhood Food Solutions (ACFS) warehouse in Sylacauga, volunteers move in a steady rhythm—sorting donations, loading cars, and packing weekend food bags for children. There’s laughter, prayer, and a quiet sense of purpose in every step. For the hundreds of families who will visit this week, the food they take home is more than groceries. It’s hope.
“Food insecurity is very real in our communities,” says Gene Rogers, Executive Director of ACFS. “When a child goes home on Friday without knowing if they’ll eat before Monday morning, that’s unacceptable. We’re here to
make sure that doesn’t happen.”
Rogers, a retired principal from Shelby County High School, joined ACFS in 2019. Founder Jim Jones was dealing with health issues and the board of directors was looking for someone to step into the executive director role.
“My college roommate told me to volunteer with ACFS,” Rogers said. “It took Jim about six weeks before he said ‘Let’s talk.’ Now Rogers is in his sixth year with the organization.
From a Pickup Truck to Thousands of Families
ACFS began humbly in 2012, with founders Jim and Linda Jones handing out food from
the back of a pickup truck. What started as a simple backpack program giving children food to get them through the weekend has grown into a regional nonprofit serving 1,300 families each month and distributing more than 75,000 weekend bags of food a year to children in 32 schools and six boys and girls clubs across seven counties. Rogers said they’re projected to reach 80,000 bags this school year.
“We’ve seen 30 percent growth in the last two years,” Rogers said. “Our children’s program was at 1,800 bags per week at the end of the last school year and is now up to 2,550 bags per week for this school year.”
The growth in need has been staggering. Just three years ago, ACFS served about 630 families. Today, that number has doubled.
“Counselors tell us the need is the greatest it has ever been,” Rogers says. “And we don’t turn anyone away who says they need food.”
So how do people find out about ACFS? School counselors send forms home for parents to fill out,
People can search “Where to find food with a community food bank” and ACFS is listed, and the public can also sign up on their website.
Meeting Families Where They Are
The ACFS model is designed to be simple and compassionate. Once a month, families receive about 75 pounds of food—groceries that can ease the strain of tough choices between paying bills, buying medicine, or putting dinner on the table.
Food distributions happen nine times a month at the Sylacauga warehouse, with satellite locations in Lincoln and volunteers delivering to those who can’t travel.
“Our footprint is Talladega County and every county that touches it,” Rogers explains. That includes Chelsea and much of Shelby County. Local schools like Chelsea High and Mt Laurel Elementary are part of the children’s program, ensuring that students right here at home don’t slip through the cracks.
ACFS serves schools that are not already being served by another food nonprofit.
Powered by Volunteers and Partnerships
Rogers said ACFS has a strong pipeline of volunteers that come out of the Chelsea, Mt Laurel, Greystone and Oak Mountain areas.
“Probably half of them come from Shelby County,” he said.
The reach of ACFS is only possible because of a vast network of volunteers, churches, and businesses. Last year, more than 900 volunteers gave 26,000 hours of service to the organization. Local churches, including many in Chelsea, provide both financial support and teams of volunteers who show up week after week to sort, pack, and distribute.
Grocery stores also play a major role. Chelsea Walmart and Publix, Mt Laurel Piggly Wiggly, Sprouts on Highway 280, and others donate unsold food that ACFS “rescues” and puts into the hands of families who need it most.
“We’re grateful for every partnership,” Rogers says. “It takes all of us.”
A packing party was held last month and ACFS partnered with Meals to Missions for a fundraiser. Over 10,000 meals were built with 8,000 going to children in Ghana and 2,000 going to local families.
“The primary purpose was to provide food for those who need it and to raise money for our children’s program,” Rogers said. “We raised $35,000 with this effort.”
Other fundraisers throughout the year include a golf tournament, Giving Tuesday and end of year giving pushes. ACFS also has many church and business partnerships that assist in their efforts. Rogers said about 55% of money given to ACFS comes in the last few months of the year.
More Than Food
Though food distribution is the heart of the mission, Rogers emphasizes that ACFS is a faith-based ministry at its core. “Every person who comes here has the opportunity to be prayed for,” he says. “Food is the mechanism, but our purpose is to love people and remind them of their value.”
That purpose has carried ACFS through challenges, including the pandemic, when the organization never closed its doors—even as demand surged. “God has provided every step of the way,” Linda Jones said. “We see answered prayers every day.”
Looking Ahead
Today, ACFS is “bursting at the seams” in its current facility. With more food coming in and more families to serve, the organization has already purchased the site and cleared 12 acres in Childersburg to build a new 20,000-squarefoot distribution center. The dream facility will expand their storage and capacity to serve, but it comes with a $4 million price tag. With $735,000 already raised, ACFS is prayerfully seeking the remaining support to bring the vision to life.
“We’re waiting on the Lord on this,” Rogers said. “We are meeting with people having conversations about potential partnerships and securing grants. It’s a challenging environment and will take a lot to get it to the finish line.”
The newly planned building will house the ACFS food distribution center where those they serve can shop for their specific needs with a grocery cart.
In the meantime, Rogers hopes more individuals will join their “Sponsor a Child” program—a commitment of just $24 a month to ensure a child has food every weekend of the school year. With 2,553 children currently served each week, the need is urgent. Their first goal is to get 200 people to sponsor a child.
“It costs us about $10,000 a week to provide these bags,” Rogers explained. “We need people willing to stand in the gap.”
A Chelsea Connection
After spending years living in Sylacauga, ACFS founders Jim and Linda Jones moved to Chelsea two years ago.
How to Get Help or Get Involved
Families in need can visit the website or call the food hotline to sign up.
Volunteers, church groups, or businesses can contact Val at ACFS to schedule a service opportunity.
To sponsor a child for $24/month or make a donation, visit the ACFS website.
ACFS hosts a Lunch and Learn every month for anyone to attend to find out more about the organization.
alabamachildhoodfoodsolutions.org
“We love Chelsea,” Linda said. “Our little street has 12 houses on it. Everyone walks up and down the street to visit with you. When we’ve been on trips, our neighbor came and cut grass and picked up our packages.”
Linda still works at the Sylacauga location on Mondays and Thursdays and serves as Vice President of the ACFS board. Jim, who just turned 81, is still involved with ACFS, serving on the advisory board, supervising and handling grant requests when possible, but is unable to be physically present anymore due to ongoing health problems.
The couple attends Double Oak Community
Church in Mt Laurel, and he sees firsthand how Chelsea churches and residents fuel ACFS’s mission.
“Probably half the children we serve come from Shelby County,” he says. “This community has stepped up in powerful ways.”
As she reflects on the journey from a pickup truck to serving thousands, Linda Jones is humbled.
“This is God’s ministry, not ours,” she said. “We would love to live in a world where we had no clients. But until that day comes, if a child or family has a need, we want them to know there’s a place to turn.”
Leader at Heart
One counselor’s journey at Camp ASCCA
BY EMERSEN SPOHR
Camp ASCCA (Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults)— welcomed Emily Lamberson as one of their new Unit Leaders this past summer. Emily is from Chelsea, Alabama, and recently graduated from Auburn University. She will be furthering her education in Occupational Therapy at the University of South Alabama this fall.
Emily’s journey with Camp ASCCA began four years ago, when she first learned about the camp through a presentation given by program director Amber Cotney at the Human Development and Family Science Professional Club at Auburn. Inspired by the opportunity to make a difference, Emily applied and began her summer as a counselor. She then transitioned to the adventure program staff, gaining valuable experience. This past summer, Emily stepped into the role of unit leader, where she brought her knowledge and passion for building relationships with campers. There was a shared sense of excitement about Emily’s journey as we welcomed her to her new position, sure of the positive impact she continues to have within our community.
Emily loves Camp ASCCA because she enjoys reconnecting with familiar campers and building strong friendships. She expressed her enthusiasm for the camp, stating, “My favorite part of camp is connecting with the campers. It has been so much fun to nurture those friendships over the last four years.” Her dedication to these connections highlights the camp’s commitment to inclusivity and support. “The true, genuine love that our campers have makes these relationships so rewarding and special. The campers are what truly make ASCCA my favorite place on earth.” Emily’s affection for Camp ASCCA is unparalleled. Her presence not only eases the campers but also comforts the counselors.
Camp ASCCA takes pride in having dedicated individuals like Emily, who significantly contribute to the transformative camp experience. During the last weeks of summer camp, Emily showed remarkable growth as a unit leader, proving that she has always had the qualities of a leader at heart. The staff at Camp ASCCA looks forward to watching her continue to develop in her leadership role and the lasting memories she will help create for campers in the summers.
For more information about Camp ASCCA, visit campascca.org.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CAMP ASCCA
Caption: Camp ASCCA—Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults—began in 1976 and is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation. Located on 230 wooded acres at Lake Martin, they provide camping experiences for children and adults with disabilities.
Pickle Fever
BY LOYD MCINTOSH
Regular readers of the Chelsea Magazine sports page know that we typically focus on the city’s amazing high school athletes, and deservedly so. However, sports aren’t just for the young — even though they are far better at athletic endeavors than those of us who may be a little long in the tooth.
Traditionally, for those of us entering our older years, yours truly included, there have only been a handful of sports offering an opportunity to stay in shape and be part of a community; golf (yawn), tennis (can anyone keep the silly scoring straight in their heads?), and softball (if you don’t mind standing around waiting for something to happen).
Enter pickleball, the new paddleball sport sweeping through the South faster than kudzu. Many communities throughout greater Birmingham have seen an interest spike immeasurably in recent years, including Chelsea.
Maybe it’s more accurate to say, especially Chelsea, according to Jane Ann Mueller, program director for the Chelsea Parks & Recre-
ation Department. Pickleball was added to the Chelsea Community Center around six years ago, quickly growing in popularity. Mueller says it’s simple to sum up the demand for the sport.
“I can tell you in one word: ‘wild,’” says Mueller.
Mueller says the local pickleball craze started when one older gentleman and avid player suggested setting up one of the gymnasium courts for pickleball. Before long, she says, people were flowing into the community center wanting to play. The staff added pickleball to the schedule, and now there is hardly a time when pickleball isn’t being played on the gym floors.
“It all started when one of our members asked if we could bring in nets, and it just exploded from there,” says Mueller.
“Now we have it on the schedule Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Thursday evenings, and Saturday mornings,” Mueller adds. “Even on days when it’s not scheduled, people show up to play. Basically, it’s happening here every day.”
The Chelsea Community Center was opened in 2015 and featured
an array of modern amenities, including racquetball courts, a weight room, multipurpose rooms, and two regulation basketball courts. Mueller says the center went underused for a while, a problem Mayor Tony Picklesimer asked her to solve. She added new programs for youth and family, bringing more people into the center, but it’s pickleball that brings people in from all over Chelsea and beyond.
“When I became director, the mayor asked me to ‘make something happen.’ Now, we host homeschool groups, after-school programs, and a wide range of activities. Pickleball has been a big part of our growth because it attracts a whole new crowd. People even drive from outside Chelsea, from Inverness, Over the Mountain, and other communities, because they like the facility.”
In response, Mueller says the city has invested in the sport, purchasing enough equipment to set up six courts on the gym floor and a generous supply of paddles and balls so new players can check it out before buying their own equipment. Additionally, the Parks and Recreation department has created levels for beginners, intermediates, and experts, so anyone can drop in and play against others at their own level.
Although most pickleball players at Chelsea are 65 years or older, Mueller says there is some interest in the game from younger people, but she says they haven’t had enough kids to sign up to create a youth league just yet, but will create it if the demand is there.
Regardless of the age or level, the six courts at the Chelsea Rec Center are always full of pickleball players with many more waiting for a chance to rotate into the action. The popularity is so strong that Mueller says the city is looking into building several outdoor courts in order to satisfy the demand, although playing in the hot sun in the middle of August might not be so desirable. Until then, Chelsea residents are happy to play their favorite sport, improve their health, and enjoy an outlet to meet friends, old and new.
“It’s addictive! People play every day. They love the social aspect, the accessibility, and the fact that it’s something they can keep doing as they age,” Mueller says. “When it’s 100 degrees outside, they’re grateful to have an air-conditioned gym to play in. It keeps our building busy and gives people a place to connect.”
For more information go to cityofchelsea.com/565/ Pickleball.
5 book recommendations from Judy Bush at the Chelsea Public Library
“The Things We Leave Unfinished” by
Rebecca Yarros
When Georgia Stanton returns home after a failed marriage, she discovers her legendary great-grandmother Scarlett left behind an unfinished WWII love story. Bestselling author Noah Harrison has been chosen to complete it, much to Georgia’s dismay. As the two battle over the manuscript, Scarlett’s powerful tale of love and sacrifice unfolds—mirroring Georgia’s own journey to heal and open her heart again.
“Firefly Lane” by
Kristin Hannah
From the summer of 1974 to the turn of the new millennium, Firefly Lane tells the story of two inseparable friends, Tully Hart and Kate Mularkey. Tully is bold, ambitious, and chasing fame, while Kate is shy, steady, and longing for love and family. Over more than three decades, they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, career struggles, marriages, motherhood, and personal heartbreaks. Through triumphs and betrayals alike, their bond is tested in ways neither could have imagined, ultimately showing the unbreakable—and sometimes painful—power of lifelong friendship.
“Fly Away” by
Kristin Hannah
In this powerful sequel to “Firefly Lane,” Tully Hart is shattered after the loss of her best friend, Kate. Struggling with grief, guilt, and the emptiness left behind, Tully spirals downward, estranged from Kate’s husband and children. Meanwhile, Kate’s daughter Marah feels lost and rebellious, and Johnny fights to hold his family together. As their lives unravel, each of them must confront heartbreak, forgiveness, and the ties that still bind them to Kate—discovering that even in the darkest times, love and family can help them find their way back.
“Calamity
of Souls” by David Balducci
In 1968 Virginia, a Black handyman is accused of murdering a white couple, and small-town lawyer Jack Lee reluctantly takes the case. Knowing he can’t fight the system alone, he teams up with Desiree DuBose, a fearless civil rights attorney from Chicago. Together, they battle entrenched racism, an all-white jury, and a biased community in a powerful courtroom drama about justice, courage, and the fight for truth.
The story follows Grace, a New Yorker seeking peace in a remote Wyoming Airbnb. There she meets the charming host, Calvin, and sparks fly. But when strange events and dark warnings from locals arise—followed by a shocking death— Grace begins to wonder if her dream escape has turned into a deadly trap.
“You Shouldn’t Have Come Here” By Jeneva Rose
PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMAZON
Chelsea Library Calendar
Library Info 16623 U.S. 280, Chelsea, AL
Monday-Thurs: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fri: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 205-847-5750 | cityofchelsea.com/225/Library-Home
happens Amazing
When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries taking place today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures – benefitting not only our patients and families, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.
Childrens AL •org
DOWNTOWN MAIN CAMPUS 1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233
Mondays: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 12-14) from 4-6 p.m.
Wednesdays: Tot Time. 10:30 a.m.
Wednesdays: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 15 and up) from 5-7 p.m.
Thursdays: Musical Munchkins at 10:30 a.m.
Fridays: Bring your own craft at 1 p.m.
4th Saturdays: K.Z.T. Steam Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sept. 6: Local author spotlight featuring E.M. Myers. Noon to 2 p.m.
Sept. 11: Book Club. 11:30 a.m.
Sept. 13: Lego Saturday. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sept. 13: Chess Club. 11-12:30 p.m.
Sept. 15: Beyond Books. 6 p.m. “Truth and Treasure in Alabama.” Historian Jim Phillps will discuss lost and found treasures in Alabama. He will also do free appraisals of coins, money and bottles. Register on the library website to secure a spot.
Sept. 20: Pokemon Trading Club from 10-11 a.m.
We are here in your neighborhood at Greenvale Pediatrics Hoover. Call 205-987-4444 to schedule an appointment.
PHOTO BY BRITTNEY FIELDS
Sean of the South
Eulogy For the American Newspaper
I miss the newspaper. Before the internet. I’m talking physical newspapers. The kind you unfold.
I miss the morning routine of it all. Walk to the end of the driveway, barefoot, pre-sunrise. Messy hair. Morning breath. Unsheath the newsprint from its plastic. Soy-based ink on your fingers. That low-grade, wood-pulpy newsprint smell.
Also, I miss the design of a newspaper. A newspaper is a work of organizational art. The broadsheet layout, headlines, dropheads, bylines, datelines, section numbers, and… (Continued on A3).
I miss shaking open the paper with a grand gesture, organizing each section on my table, reading pages in a specific order: Funnies first. Sports next. Then, senseless acts of politics.
I miss the corny car-dealership ads. And the ultra-serious advice columns, with headlines like: “Help, my daughter says I wear ‘granny panties,’ what should I do?”
I miss the Far Side.
I miss low-quality photography, op-ed columns written by the extremely self-righteous, crossword puzzles, the classified section, and the “errata” section—I doubt people even know what that is anymore.
I used to deliver newspapers with my mother. Our lives revolved around newspapers. We have hurled—seriously—tens of thousands of papers in our lifetimes.
We serviced the majority of the continental United States in Mama’s little Nissan Altima with a heater that smelled like recently produced cat poop.
At two in the morning, sitting in her front
SEAN DIETRICH
seat, we rolled each copy into a giant enchilada, shoving each paper into a plastic wrapper, while drinking enough coffee to concern a cardiologist.
We delivered to expansive neighborhoods, subdivisions, business districts, apartment complexes, 2,000-story beach condos, newspaper machines, hotels, you name it.
But do you know what my favorite part was?
My favorite part of the delivery process came toward the end of our shift. It would be sunrise. Old folks would be standing in driveways, awaiting delivery. The newspaper was THAT
important to them.
Mister Oleson stood at his mailbox while his Shih Tzu, Buddha, sniffed each blade of grass before ceremoniously peeing on it.
Mrs. Reynolds, my old Sunday school teacher, waited at the end of her driveway, wearing a mumu, hair in rollers, arms crossed, angrily tapping her foot, scowling, and just generally scaring the crap out of anyone within eyeshot.
And there was this deep feeling, even at my young age, that what we were doing mattered. Delivering the paper mattered.
Because the newspaper was essential to my people. It sort of made us a community. It kept us all on the same page, so to speak.
After all, EVERYONE read the paper. And I think that’s what I liked about it most. People weren’t as divided as they are today.
It didn’t matter if you were Catholic or Protestant. Democrat or Republican. Black, white, brown, or otherwise. University of Alabama fan, or the other kind. Truck-stop waitress or corporate CEO. Steelworker or financial advisor. Gated community resident or trailer trash, like me. Male or female. Old or young. Everyone read the paper. It was OUR newspaper. We all owned a piece of it. Because, hey, we were all in this together.
Sure, we disagreed about what was in our paper. Absolutely, we didn’t always feel warm and fuzzy toward each other. We were vicious opponents sometimes. But you know what? We all did the same crossword puzzles. We all read the same TV-guide schedules. We all clipped the same coupons.
The internet can never replace that for me.
Campfire S’Mores Cupcakes
In The Kitchen with Kathleen Phillips
Kathleen Phillips is a food blogger, food stylist, cookbook author, and former Oxmoor House test kitchen director (Southern Living cookbooks). On her food blog, GritsAndGouda.com, she creates Southern shortcut recipes. Follow her on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. Food Blogger, GritsAndGouda.com
These Campfire S’mores Cupcakes made their debut at my son’s Eagle Scout court of honor many years ago—because after years of campouts, badge-earning, and burnt marshmallows, cupcakes felt like the least I could do!
This shortcut version is made with a cake mix, so no merit badge in baking required.
If you’re feeling fancy, the from-scratch vanilla cupcake version can be found over at GritsAndGouda.com.
These are perfect for a back-to-school bonfire or anytime you want that s’mores flavor without building a fire.
Psst.. You can also cheat a little and skip the homemade marshmallow frosting by swirling some whipped vanilla frosting that comes in a tub next to the cake mixes.
Cupcake Ingredients
1 (15.25 ounce) yellow cake mix
3 large eggs
1 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 (7 ounce) Hershey’s chocolate bar
Cupcake Instructions
Prepare 24 cupcakes with cake mix, eggs, water and oil according to package directions on the box. Cool completely.
Prepare the Marshmallow Frosting.
Marshmallow Frosting Ingredients
(Also Called 7-Minute Frosting)
Yield: about 4 cups
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large egg whites, lightly beaten
1/3 cup water
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting instructions
Stir together sugar, egg whites, 1/3 cup water and corn syrup in a medium-size metal or heat-proof bowl. Beat at low speed of a hand mixer until combined.
Create a double boiler with a saucepan and a metal bowl:
Pour enough tap water in the bottom of a medium-size saucepan to reach a depth
of 1/2 inch. Bring water to a boil; place the bowl with sugar mixture over the saucepan.
Beat at high speed of the hand mixer right in the bowl over the saucepan for about 7 minutes over medium-low heat or until stiff peaks form. Be careful of the electrical cord near the stove.
Remove the bowl from heat; add vanilla and beat just until combined. Use immediately because it will start to firm up quickly like marshmallows.
Spoon marshmallow frosting into a piping bag fitted with a large round decorating tip or spoon about 2 tablespoons onto the cupcakes and swirl with the back of the spoon-or just spoon and swirl it on.
Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs generously onto the frosting immediately and press a chocolate bar piece into the top of the frosting.
Fall Fun at Ruby Falls
Take a quick trip that truly feels like a getaway.
BY CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER
If you’re like me, you’re probably already looking ahead to fall weekends. You know, those slower-paced Saturdays and Sundays when the weather is just right and you’re itching to get out of town but not too far from home. One of my favorite spots for a quick day trip or a weekend reset is Chattanooga, Tennessee. Ruby Falls is a popular stop in the Chattanooga area. It’s close enough to Birmingham to do in a day, but there’s so much to see that you might just want to make a weekend of it.
Ruby Falls is one of those places that people can’t stop talking about. Visitors often say it feels like stepping into a hidden world as they ride the elevator 260 feet below Lookout Mountain and follow the winding cave trail to a stunning underground waterfall.
Perfect for Families
If you’re traveling with kids, Ruby Falls is a hit. The main Cave Walk to the Waterfall is family-friendly and led by a guide who’ll keep everyone engaged with stories, history, and fun facts about the cave and how it was discovered back in 1928. There’s a short movie at the beginning, some cool light effects, and, of course, a grand ending that leaves you standing in front of the tallest underground waterfall open to the pub-
lic in the United States. Visitors often describe it as an unforgettable moment.
And while Ruby Falls is fascinating for younger kids, older kids enjoy it, too. In fact, there are several specialty tours that cater to different interests and energy levels.
A Deeper Look (Literally)
If geology or science fascinates you, or if you just love a good guide who knows their stuff, the Geology Cave Adventure is something new this fall. This one’s all about understanding how the cave was formed and learning more about the formations you pass by on the way to the falls. It’s a slower-paced tour offered on select days, and it feels more personal and immersive.
Also on the calendar this time of year is the Lantern Tour: Ghost Walk Edition. I mean, what’s more fun during spooky season than walking through an underground cave by lantern light while listening to eerie stories from Ruby Falls’s 90-plus years of history? If you have teens or if you enjoy a little mystery, this one’s for you. It’s only offered in September and October, so if you’re interested, go ahead and reserve your spot. I hear it books up fast.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF RUBY FALLS
Don’t Miss the View (and the Snacks)
Fall is the ideal time to visit Lookout Mountain, as the leaves are at their peak. The view from the historic Lookout Mountain Tower is stunning year-round, but when the colors begin to change, it’s truly something special. Red, orange, gold—you name it. It’s like walking into a postcard.
After your cave tour, stop in at Castle Café, located right on the property. The menu changes with the seasons, and it’s a great spot to grab lunch, a sweet treat, or even just an iced coffee while you sit and take in the mountain air. It’s casual, quick, and surprisingly good.
More Than a Waterfall
Ruby Falls is not a one-and-done kind of place. Each time you visit, there’s something new to explore. This fall, they’ve added a new history exhibit called “Building the Big Nine: A Legacy of Black Excellence.” It’s a free exhibit that tells the story of Chattanooga’s historic Black business district and its role in shaping the city. It’s powerful, beautifully curated, and worth making time for during your visit.
If your crew is up for a little more action, the High Point ZIP Adventure is available on weekends from September to November. Ziplining among the trees on the side of a mountain? If that’s your thing, go for it! There’s
also a 40-foot climbing tower if you have some extra energy to burn.
Tips to Make It Easy
Pro tip: Buy your tickets online before you go. Ruby Falls operates on timed-entry, and the popular tours (especially the seasonal ones) sell out fast. They also offer special low-sensory tours and gentle walking tours for those in your group who require a slower pace or a more sensory-friendly experience. It’s nice to know they think of everybody. Low-sensory tours require booking two weeks in advance.
General admission tickets are affordable, especially compared to other attractions of this scale, and parking is free. Its proximity to Birmingham makes it an ideal day trip, but if you want to extend it into a weekend stay, downtown Chattanooga has plenty to offer. From local eats to museums and riverfront strolls, it’s a great city to explore.
Closer Than You Think
If you’re craving a getaway that mixes adventure, beauty, history, and a little bit of magic, Ruby Falls is calling your name. No matter if you’re looking for a fun fall Saturday road trip or a weekend away with your family, it’s the kind of place that reminds you how much wonder is tucked into our corner of the South.
Counselor’s Corner with Neely
Haynes
Neely Haynes, M.Ed., LPC, NCC, is a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist and is the owner of Harbor Counseling, located at 1063 Narrows Way, Suite D., Birmingham, AL 35242. harborcounselingllc.com
Resilience
Resilience is something we do not speak about enough.
I am going to say something controversial here (something I do quite often it seems): mental health does not need to be destigmatized.
In fact, I think overall, we have come leaps and bounds from where we were even 15 years ago.
Truthfully, the biggest issue we are facing with mental health is teaching and having access to skills for resilience.
I personally think that we have done too well at labeling every emotion and every experience we have, but we do not have enough capacity and resiliency to now deal with the experiences and emotions we now can label. Here are some ways to go ahead and start building resiliency right now on your own:
Routine
I feel like I say this on repeat, but it remains true. Do you have a consistent routine? Are you doing have-to’s before want-to’s? Are you feeding yourself, hydrating yourself, sleeping? Is your space a train wreck?
Stop personalizing life.
We are all dealt bad hands for no reason other than that’s the way life rolls. Instead of saying, “why me,” try asking, “what can I learn from this?” Life is not out to get you, even when it feels that way.
Develop radical accountability.
It is very tempting to assign blame and over personalize things that don’t need to be personalized, while also deflecting responsibility for things you actually may be contributing to. Ask yourself what
you are doing to make life harder on yourself and then adjust. Don’t turn this into beating yourself into a pulp for being human. We don’t know what we don’t know until we know it. Adjust and move forward.
Let things be “both and.”
Allow emotions to be there, realize that sometimes you are the only person that this matters to, and that is okay. Allowing an emotion to be there does not mean that it now rules your experience. You can be both angry and kind, sad and productive, and overwhelmed and slow down. Do not “think” your emotions. They will pass a lot quicker instead of you trying to logic your way through them and fix them instantly.
Find a sense of humor.
Make a joke. Laugh. Being able to find laughter even in the darkest of times is one of life’s beautiful gifts and is closely related to the both/and in the prior tip.
Take a deep breath.
This is such a counselor’s statement, but I am going to explain why this is such an important thing. When we take a true, deep belly breath, it activates our vagus nerve; our vagus nerve then sends a signal to our brain to slow down. The whole point of this is to be present in our body and feel what we need to feel. Do not expect this to take away the anxiety you’re feeling. Allow it to ground you in the feedback that your body is trying to give you so you can adjust.
We have become addicted to not being okay. I am here to tell you that yes, it is okay to not be okay but it is also really okay to be okay. I encourage you to start developing resiliency, because the whole point is to grow and create a life worth living.
We have become addicted to not being okay. I am here to tell you that yes, it is okay to not be okay but it is also really okay to be okay. I encourage you to start developing resiliency, because the whole point is to grow and create a life worth living.
School News: Chelsea Park
Cookies and crabs
Mrs. Morrison’s third-grade class participated in two fun and engaging activities. They practiced division with the story “The Doorbell Rang.” Each student divided their cookies into equal groups to find out how many cookies each guest would get! After the math practice, they got to enjoy cookie cereal.
They also spent some time observing their hermit crabs (Gary and Senorita Crab). Gary and Senorita Crab got to enjoy a special treat in their habitat… a strawberry and raspberry! They love their “crabby” friends!
SRO fun
Officer Saunders joined Mrs. Thorne’s thirdgrade class for recess and got his exercise for the day!
Counting with coins
Mrs. Epperson’s second-grade class sorted coins and identified coin values so they could buy lemonade at their class lemonade stand.
Counting with cookies
Miss Cox’s third-grade class learned all about division They learned that dividing means to put into equal groups. They practiced what they learned by listening to the read aloud, “The Doorbell Rang”, where students divided their own “cookies” into groups to find out how many cookies each person would get in different scenarios.
A sweet treat
Mrs. Turner’s third-grade class enjoyed their first Kona Ice day of the new school year.
Counting collection
Mrs. Harris’ first graders learned to organize their counting collection.
Staff lunch
The day before school started, FOES PTO treated the faculty and staff to lunch from Ousler Sandwiches courtesy of Liberty Baptist Church and fruit trays from Chick-fil-A Greystone.
Back to school retreat
Forest Oaks hosted its second annual Back to School Retreat at Camp Hargis before the school years started. Their Sunshine Events Committee planned a full day of fun activities and events, complete with guest speaker Katie Collins, Alabama’s 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year!
School News: Chelsea Middle
Gameday Schedule and Gameday Themes
Each week of the ChMS football season will have a different theme. Students are encouraged to dress up to support the team.
Spring Trip Meeting
The ChMS Band and Choir had well over 100 families attend a Spring Trip meeting. Pending board approval, the ChMS Band and Choir will be traveling to Universal Studios, Orlando and working with professional cast members. They will also be visiting the newly opened Epic Universe and Islands of Adventure.
A Perfect Score
Congratulations to the ChMS CNP Staff for scoring a 100 on their health inspection just two weeks into the school year.
School News: Chelsea High
Back to school lunch
The CHHS PTO provided a back to school lunch for the teachers and staff the day before school started. Station 31 Kitchen provided the delicious meal and Edwards Orthodontics sponsored shirts for the entire staff.
Perfect score for CNP
The CHHS lunchroom staff received a perfect 100 health rating just weeks into the new school year.
New faculty members
CHHS welcomed several new teachers for the school year:
Ms.Bailey- English
Mr. Bogese- CTE
Ms. Casey- Paraeducator
Mr. Grant- Social Studies
Ms. Hagler- Social Studies
Mr. Johnson- Driver’s Ed/PE
Ms. Massey- Special Education
Mr. Miller- English
Ms. Stoudimire- Science
Ms. Thuresson- Special Education
Mr. Willoughby- Social Studies
Ms. Wood- Science
Credentialing award
Three CHHS teachers earned a Seal of Excellence for credentialing a high number of students and achieving a high pass rate for CCRs. Congratulations to you and your students Ms. Baggett, Mr. Collins and Ms. Maddox.
Donation from the city of Westover
Westover Mayor Larry Riggins recently presented a check to Chelsea High School. The funds will be used in classrooms to support student learning.
Ms. Stoudimire- Science
Mr. Willoughby- Social Studies
School News: Shelby County
CTE educators earn Seal of Excellence
The Shelby County Schools Credentialing Seal of Excellence recognizes CTE educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to student achievement in industry-recognized certifications. This recognition honors teachers whose students achieve strong pass rates, which reflect high-quality instruction, meaningful preparation, and student readiness. Earning this seal signifies a teacher’s dedication to equipping students with the skills and credentials needed for success beyond high school.
At the annual CTE Back-to-School meeting, 30 teachers were recognized with the Credentialing Seal of Excellence banner. Each teacher received a small banner to hang outside of their classroom and a larger banner to proudly display inside, honoring their role in preparing students for high-skill, high-demand careers. Together, these teachers helped Shelby County students earn 1,357 industry-recognized credentials in the 2024-2025 school year compared to 707 the previous school year. Some credentials include Microsoft Office Specialist Associate, NCCER Core, Certified Patient Care Tech, Adobe Photoshop, iCar, ASE, MSSC, ServSafe Manager, and several Skills for Success credentials through a partnership with Jefferson State Community College.
Students who earn an approved industry-recognized credential receive a College & Career Readiness indicator, which meets the graduation requirement for College & Career Readiness.
New CTE Supervisor
Back to School Summit
The first week of August, teacher groups from every corner of the district gathered for a time to collaborate, connect, and prepare for an incredible year ahead.
Celebrating Excellence in Shelby County Schools
Dawn Bone will serve as Career Technical Education (CTE) Supervisor. Bone has 28 years of experience in education, including 24 years with Shelby County Schools. She began her career teaching computer application classes at Midfield High School. She then taught CTE Business Education classes at Calera High for 15 years. She has spent the past nine years working as the district CTE Resource Teacher, where she played an active role in shaping CTE initiatives throughout the district.
Three high schools in the Shelby County School District have been ranked among Alabama’s Top 50 Best High Schools by U.S. News & World Report.
#15 Oak Mountain High School
#36 Helena High School
#40 Chelsea High School
A social media announcement from the district read, “This achievement reflects the dedication of our students, teachers, staff, and families who work together every day to ensure success. Let’s give a big congratulations to these schools for representing Shelby County with excellence!”
City & Community News
Election Results Recap
Cody Sumners will be the next mayor of Chelsea after a landslide win in the August 26 municipal election.
He defeated opponent Mike Rochester with 77.34 percent of the vote, to Rochester’s 22.66 percent.
Of the 1,851 votes cast, Sumners garnered 1,437 to Rochester’s 414.
Sumners will take over as mayor replacing Tony Picklesimer in November.
A Municipal Runoff Election will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 23 at the Chelsea Community Center after a close contest between Council Place #4 incumbent Arthur Fisher Jr. and Jeff Honea II.
Neither candidate gained a majority vote from the 1,832 total votes. Honea led with 734 while Fisher had 652. Walter “Ryan” Adams will not be in the runoff, but garnered 446 votes.
The winner of the runoff election will serve alongside Johnna Barnes, Scott Weygand, Chris Grace and Casey Morris.
Voter turnout for this election was only 13.78 percent.
Upcoming city council meetings
Sept. 2 and 16
Precouncil at 5 p.m. and regular council at 6 p.m.
Meetings are streamed live on the city’s Facebook page.
City Council recap
Aug. 5 meeting
• Trees are being cleared for additional parking behind the Chelsea Community Center.
• An ABC license was approved for ALDI.
• The city’s annual transportation plan was approved
• A release agreement releasing bonds from the developer was approved to pave streets in the Willow Branch subdivision.
• An authorization to purchase the property of the roadway currently in front of McDonald’s was approved.
Aug. 19 meeting
• Chelsea Fire Department Chief Joe Lee recognized two promotions within the department. Cpt. Chase Richardson, who is the captain at Station 32, and Lt. Evan Dunaway, who contributes significantly to the procurement processes for drug and EMS supplies.
• The council approved an Apple study to be performed by Sain and Associates. Councilman Chris Grace elaborated on the study, staying the council has federal money that is used to do feasibility studies for transportation. The city commissioned one in 2017, and this will be an updated study to look at different spots around the city, including a study for a bridge over the railroad tracks in front of city hall. Grace said the original costs were high, but the council is trying to position themselves for funding in the future
• The council approved an ordinance to regulate the sale of distribution of consumable vape product
Upcoming events
• Warrior Wellness Group will host an awareness event at Chelsea City Hall on Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to noon. featuring food trucks, kids activities and more.
• The city will host a Ready to Shred Recycling Day on Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot of city hall.
PHOTO BY LEAH INGRAM EAGLE
PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF CHELSEA
Events in and around Chelsea
Sept. 18: Girls’ Night Out. Cat & Bird Winery, 11661 Old Hwy. 280. 5-8:30 p.m. Bring your friends to sip, shop, and enjoy live music with Sam Norris. cat-n-bird.com
Sept. 20: Music with DB Cooper Duo and Wasabi Juan Food Truck. Cat & Bird Winery, 11661 Old Hwy. 280. Music 1-4 p.m. and food noon to 3 p.m. cat-n-bird.com
Sept. 25: E-Waste Recycling Day. Chelsea City Hall, 21 Weldon Dr. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Chelsea residents are welcome to drop off electronic items for recycling.
Sept. 27: Oktoberfest Celebration. Cat & Bird Winery, 11661 Old Hwy. 280. 12-5 p.m. Celebrate the second annual Oktoberfest with beer, polka music and food. Polka party music DJ from 1-4 p.m. Orbit City Food Truck from noon to 3 p.m. cat-n-bird.com
October 4: Bruster’s Ice Cream Truck at Parkmont Park. Parkmont Park, 1008 Parkmont Way, 4-8 p.m. Join Chelsea Park neighbors for an ice cream treat.
Oct. 10: Chelsea Park 2025 Pumpkin Patch. Longview Park, 1001 Fairbank Lane. 5 p.m. Enjoy a day of family fun, featuring a variety of pumpkins, festive photo opportunities, and autumn activities.
Oct. 10: The Village 2025 Pumpkin Patch. Regent Park, 1117 Regent Park Dr., 5 p.m. Enjoy a day of family fun, featuring a variety of pumpkins, festive photo opportunities, and autumn activities
Chelsea Community Center
October 18: Hunter Education Course. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hunters born after August 1, 1977 are required to complete this course to hunt unsupervised. Free to the public. Contact Charles Keasler at 205-746-2119 for more information. Register online at OutdoorAlabama.com/Hunting-HunterEd-TradCourses
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Senior Exercise Class. 9-9:45 a.m. A 45-minute class that centers around Activities of Daily Living (ADL). The focus is on functional exercises that keep participants healthy, energetic and more independent. All levels and abilities are welcome. Bring small hand weights and a water bottle. Class is taught by Keri McIntire, a certified instructor specializing in senior fitness.
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Senior Chair Exercise Class. 10-11 a.m. Chair exercises to upbeat music and choreographed for fun movements and resistance training. Equipment is provided. Free.
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Advanced Pickleball. 8-11 a.m.
Chelsea Community Center, Gym 1.
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Beginner Pickleball. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Chelsea Community Center, Gym 2.
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Intermediate Pickleball. 1-9 p.m.
Chelsea Community Center, Gym 1.
Saturday: Pickleball Open Play. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Chelsea Community Center, Gym 1.
Monday and Thursday: Rev + Flow by REFIT. Mondays at 5:30 p.m. and Thursdays at 5:15 p.m. A workout that strengthens bodies and sculpts muscles through targeted music-based movement and resistance training. To register, visit refitrev.com.
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday: REFIT. Tuesdays 5:15 and 6:30 p.m.; Thursdays 6:30 p.m.; Saturdays 8:30 a.m. A class that combines cardio movements with toning, flexibility, strength training and stretching for an hour of fitness. To register, visit refitrev.com.
Tuesday and Thursday: Ti Da Na Martial Arts Class. Tuesday and Thursday 2-4 p.m.
Tuesday: Oyama Karate. Tuesday 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Activity Room.
Mondays: Yoga Class. 6:30 p.m.. All levels of experience are welcome at this free yoga class every Monday. Bring a mat
Wednesdays: Textile Club. Wednesday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sewing, crocheting, embroidery and quilting.Bring your project and a sack lunch. This is an adults only event.
Fridays: Spectrum Support of Chelsea. Fridays at 12:30 p.m.. Are you a mom navigating the journey of raising a child on the autism spectrum? No matter your child’s age, you’re not alone. Spectrum Support is a welcoming, supportive space for mothers to share experiences, resources and encouragement. For more information contact Jerica Boley at 205-305-3651.
Area Events
Sept. 3-21: “Wicked”. BJCC Concert Hall, 2100 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. Showtimes vary. “Wicked” will come to Birmingham as part of the Broadway in Birmingham series, with a limited engagement of 24 performances, featuring Jessie Davidson as Elphaba and Zoe Jensen as Glinda in the traveling national production of the Tony-winning musical.
Sept. 12: Hardy. 6:30 p.m. Coca-Cola Amphitheatre. 2350 15th Ave. N., Country music artist Hardy will bring his Jim Bob World Tour to Birmingham with support from Stephen Wilson Jr. and Sikarus.
Sept. 13-14: Phish. 7 p.m. Coca-Cola Amphitheatre. 2350 15th Ave. N., Legendary jam band Phish brings its two-day show to Birmingham.
Sept. 14: Together in Teal - Live Butterfly Release for Ovarian Cancer Awareness. Aldridge Gardens at 3530 Lorna Road; Event at 2:30 p.m. The event will feature live music, vendor displays, and educational booths. Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation hosts this annual event to raise awareness of ovarian cancer’s silent signs and symptoms, remember those who have lost their lives and honor those who are battling or have beaten ovarian cancer.
