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 2026. All rights reserved.
Leah Ingram Eagle Content Director (205) 807-0834 leah@jbmcmedia.com
Hollie Brown Community Events Editor hollie@jbmcmedia.com
Shweta Bratina Graphic Designer
Tony Bratina Cover
Tad Niblett is now the head football coach at Chelsea High School, coming from Gainesville (GA) High School.
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TAD NIBLETT
Designer
Welcome to our April issue!
This month’ s cover story introduces readers to Chelsea’s new head football coach, Tad Niblett. With an impressive track record and a reputation for building strong programs on and off the field, Coach Niblett steps into this role at an exciting time for our city. In this feature by Loyd McIntosh, we take a closer look at his coaching philosophy, his vision for the team, and what this next chapter could mean for Chelsea athletics.
And another milestone—Chelsea’s 30th anniversary celebration took place last month. Three decades ago, incorporation set the course for the city we know today. We have a photo essay to mark that occasion.
We’ve got the usual round up of city news, school news, book recommendations and more!
As always, thank you for reading and for supporting the stories that make our community unique. Spring is a season of growth—and Chelsea continues to grow in all the right ways. If you have an idea for an upcoming story, please email me at leah@jbmcmedia.com.
Happy Reading!
Eagle, Content Director
The Chaplains Corner
Jesus Be Jesus In Me
What kind of man
Would give His life, For a world full of sin And a world full of strife; What kind of strength would it take How much love would it take to make; To make a stand on His own two feet, Even though He was horribly beat; Nailed on a cross
With 3 giant nails, Paid sins cost
So we could escape Hell; Dead for 3 days
Placed in a borrowed grave, Then on Sunday morning Christ was raised; Jesus be Jesus in me No longer me but thee, Resurrection power fill me this hour
Jesus be Jesus in Me.
Chaplain Eddie Burchfield Love You All
Fresh Fire Evangelism, Chaplain Eddie Burchfield POB 53, Westover, Al. 35185 | 205-516-3427
Leah
Veteran Coach Tad Niblett Leads Chelsea Into its Next Chapter
By Loyd McIntosh
The Tad Niblett era has begun at Chelsea High School.
Niblett was named as the 12th head coach in Chelsea High School history in January, bringing with him an impressive coaching pedigree and a resume with a long list of successes. He comes to Chelsea following four seasons as an assistant coach in Gainesville, Georgia, intending to breathe new life into a Hornets’ football program that has managed only two winning seasons since 2019.
“Our standard is just chasing our best every day,” Niblett said in late February, just three weeks into his tenure. “Can we be a little bit better today than we were yesterday? It’s all about connection and relationships. The four pillars of our program are person, student, athlete, and football player, in that order. If we’re doing everything we can every day to grow as a person and as a student, the other two things will take care of themselves.”
Niblett brings more than three decades of experience coaching high school football throughout the Southeast. The son of football coach John Niblett, the family lived in nearby Harpersville for a time until the all-to-family coaching traveling carnival took the family all over Alabama—Montgomery, Demopolis, Phenix City, just to name a few.
Specializing at quarterback, Niblett played for Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, from 1988-91, throwing for 4,800 yards and 26 touchdowns. After graduation, Niblett began his career with early head coaching stops at a pair of small Alabama schools: Central Christian in Robertsdale and Springwood in Lanett. He eventually moved on to prominent assistant roles, including offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Oxford High School, before joining the high-flying Hoover Buccaneers staff, working alongside his brother, head coach Josh Niblett.
During his two stints at Hoover, Niblett helped guide the Buccaneers
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TAD NIBLETT
to four state championships and multiple title game appearances, cementing the program as one of the nation’s premier high school football dynasties.
He later returned to the head coaching ranks at Foley High School before spending the past several seasons in Georgia as assistant head coach and offensive coordinator at Gainesville High School, helping the Red Elephants make several deep postseason runs.
Now back in Shelby County, Niblett arrived at Chelsea High School with a reputation for building strong relationships and developing players, both on and off the field. And while he only lived in north Shelby County briefly as a child, his career has taken to different places, but he said Chelsea feels like home.
“I’ve grown up in Alabama, and I’m very familiar with the Shelby County area, so in a sense it feels like coming home, especially after being over in Georgia for four years,” Niblett said, speaking not only for himself but for his wife Paige. A native of Missouri, Paige has ridden the coaching roller coaster for his entire career and 30-plus years of marriage. Before accepting the position, Niblett made sure he got Paige’s seal of approval.
“She is my best friend. I’m just very blessed, especially being a coach’s wife, which is not always the easiest,” said Niblett. “She’s been there through the highs and lows. I just could not do this without her, and she has played a big part in the decision-making of coming here.”
He takes over at Chelsea for former head coach Todd Cassity, who stepped down in January after four moderately successful years at the
helm, posting a 5-5 record in 2025. During those years, Chelsea and school leadership funded upgrades to the stadium, weight room, and locker room, among other improvements.
Niblett said the vision and leadership of Principal Dr. Brandon Turner and Athletics Director Michael Stallings were also major factors in his decision to pursue the head coaching position, and he believes their support is crucial to creating a winning culture at Chelsea High School.
“At Hoover and any successful program, there’s a real strong commitment and belief in what you’re doing,” said Niblett. “Everything starts there. Don’t get me wrong, you’ve got to have some players. You’ve got to have people who can go out there and perform, but it starts with that belief. Believing in yourself and believing in each other. You build that belief on a daily basis by how you show up and how you work every day.”
Niblett spent his first few weeks working with the players in their off-season conditioning program and putting his coaching staff together. While it’s early in the process, he’s encouraged by what he sees.
“It’s been great. They’ve really bought in, and they’ve been working hard, and I’ve been impressed with how they’ve responded to what we’re doing,” Niblett said. They want to do well, and they want to give themselves the best chance possible personally and as a team, and we’ve got to work every day to make sure that we’re giving them those opportunities.
“There’s no better profession in the world,” Niblett added. “You get to wake up every day and have an opportunity to make a positive impact.”
IMAGE COURTESY OF CHELSEA FOOTBALL FACEBOOK PAGE
The 2026 Chelsea High School Football schedule.
Kiwanis pancake breakfast
The Chelsea Kiwanis Club held their annual pancake breakfast on Feb. 21 at Chelsea Community Center. The group posted on their Facebook page that they love serving the community and creating an environment where people can get together, slow down and catch up. The Key Club from Chelsea High School also volunteered to make the event a success.
In Memoriam
The City of Chelsea is deeply saddened by the passing of Mark Glausier, a valued member of the staff at the Chelsea Community Center, who passed away. A representative from the city of Chelsea described Mark as “a dedicated public servant who cared deeply about the community he served, and his kindness, work ethic, and presence will be greatly missed by coworkers and residents alike.”
COPs honored
In February, the Citizen Observer Patrol held their annual awards ceremony at the Chelsea Community Center. The evening included a Remembrance Ceremony honoring COP Members who have passed away, a dinner and guest speaker was Lieutenant General (U.S. Army, retired) A. C. Roper, former Chief of Police of the Birmingham Police Department and a best-selling author.
COP Director Carlos Sanders said that Gen. Roper delivered a powerful speech, highlighting the impact of the COP’s volunteering service, symbolized by the “Signature White Shirts” and Woody, in making the City of Chelsea safer, stronger, and better through the commitment of good people dedicated to community improvement.”
Members were celebrated for their achievements in 2025. Recognitions were given for volunteer hours served, longevity, and the Rookie and Volunteer of the Year awards. In total, the Chelsea Citizen Observer Patrol contributed 8,227 volunteer service hours in 2025.
• Johnna Barnes was named COP of the Year
• Allyson Couch was named COP Rookie of the Year.
“We believe this event is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our community members,” Sanders said.
Representing the city
On February 20, Mayor Cody Sumners and the Chelsea City Council attended the Shelby County Chamber’s “Eggs & Issues” breakfast, where U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville was the featured speaker.
Chelsea Celebrates
30 Years of Community
Submitted by Brandy Pate
On March 1, the City of Chelsea gathered to celebrate a meaningful milestone, the 30th Anniversary of its incorporation. Residents, community leaders, and longtime supporters came together for a Commemorative Celebration and Time Capsule Ceremony honoring the people and partnerships that have shaped Chelsea since 1996.
The afternoon began with a reception at the Chelsea Historical Society & Museum. Led by curator and director Jenny Mumpower, guests enjoyed learning about the city’s history while touring the museum’s exhibits. A special highlight was the presence of Marie Alverson, age 92, and her two sisters, lifelong Chelsea residents who shared stories and memories of the community’s early days.
The event also welcomed student volunteer Sabrielle Spainhoward, a 2026 Chelsea High School senior who assisted with the reception and museum activities. Sabrielle is interested in pursuing a career in archival and museum work, making her involvement especially meaningful during this historic celebration.
PHOTOS BY ADAM PATE
Following the reception, guests gathered outside City Hall for the commemorative ceremony. Wayne Morris shared the story of Chelsea’s growth from a small community into the thriving city it is today. Mayor Cody Sumners addressed the crowd, celebrating the progress of the past three decades and looking ahead to the bright future of the community.
Special guests Representative Susan DuBose and Senator Dan Roberts also joined the celebration and shared remarks with attendees.
Cub Scout Pack 353 presented the flag ceremony and played an important role in the day’s events by assisting with the ceremonial burial of the time capsule. The capsule will be preserved and reopened during Chelsea’s 50th Anniversary in 2046, offering future generations a glimpse into life in Chelsea today.
The entire current Chelsea City Council was present for the celebration, along with several former council members including, Dale Neuendorf, Jim Ferguson, Alison M. Nichols, and Robert Barnes. The event was further enriched by the presence of June Niven, the First First Lady of Chelsea, and recently retired Mayor Tony Picklesimer.
An Unexpected Escape in Villa Rica, Georgia
I began the day exploring a nearby west Georgia town. A brief detour led me to one of the most fascinating bed and breakfasts I’ve visited in a while. Villa Rica BnB, in Villa Rica, Georgia, appears to have been plucked away from a much larger destination and placed strategically behind the curtain in a most unsuspecting location. It is a reward for anyone who is lucky enough to find it.
A wrought iron gate greeted me as I turned into the narrow driveway. After being buzzed onto the property, a uniquely shaped home demanded my attention. Signage, however, directed me to move farther along, hinting that what I had glimpsed was a mere preview. And it was. Little did I know the treat that lay just around the bend.
Further along the driveway, I saw a modest duplex perched on a small hill. The outside did a great job of concealing the treasure inside. I wasn’t quite prepared for what I would find. Inside were two themed, adults-only suites—Go West and Shipwrecked—and they more than lived up to their carefully chosen names. Every inch of each space felt intentional. No detail had been overlooked. From the garbage cans and light fixtures to the hair dryers and coffee makers, everything was on brand.
Go West evokes the spirit of a western
Cherith Glover Fluker
movie set. When I stepped inside, I thought I’d been zapped onto the set of a John Wayne film. Shipwrecked gives off an equally immersive, yet nautical vibe akin to Gilligan’s Island. Both spaces showcase an impressive level of creativity and craftsmanship.
Villa Rica BnB is owned and operated by Dan and Polina Christner, a husband-and-wife team whose partnership is evident in every detail. Dan describes Polina as the visionary, while he helps bring those ideas to life. Dan credits their success to teamwork, where Polina’s ideas and his hands-on execution meet seamlessly.
The Christners have intentionally chosen not to expand, preferring to remain hands-on and personally involved in every detail to maintain their consistently high customer ratings.
Beyond the interior, the property is designed for connection and relaxation. With just two units and a secluded setting, quiet and relaxation come naturally. The grounds include two lakes and four ponds, each outfitted with chairs and paddleboats. A picnic area tucked into the woods features a wooden swing perfect for couples to slow down and savor time together.
Despite its peaceful seclusion, Villa Rica BnB is conveniently located. Dining options in downtown Villa Rica are just minutes away, and Atlanta sits roughly 35 miles east.
Villa Rica BnB is an experience. One that reminds you that sometimes the most memorable destinations are the ones you don’t expect to find at all.
El Camino de Average Joe
You’re a farmer in the Middle Ages. We’re talking 1000 A.D.-ish. Actually, they don’t call you a farmer but a “yeoman,” which is an antiquated way of saying, “you shovel excrement for a living.”
Maybe you live in Scotland. Maybe France. England, Portugal, Africa, wherever. Either way, your life is unfulfilling.
Sure, you have a great family. You have great friends. You are even allowed to drink beer for breakfast because this is what everyone does during the Middle Ages, even clergy and toddlers. So that’s pretty great.
Even so, underneath it all, there is something going on inside you. You can’t explain what you’re experiencing.
Centuries later, psychologists will invent clinical names for your feelings. They’ll call it a major “climacteric,” or the “need for self-actualization,” or God forbid, a “midlife crisis.”
But in the Middle Ages there are no psychological doctors. There are only doctors whose entire medical practice consists of drilling holes into people’s skulls in hopes of curing a runny nose.
Still, you can’t explain this pulling sensation inside. It’s tugging you somewhere. But where? You keep wondering whether you were made for more than just paying bills. Weren’t you made to be more than just a serf?
And isn’t life about more than just pleasure and fun? Having fun is great. But fun doesn’t exactly make your cup runneth all over the placeth.
You have a few options for spiritual guidance. You could visit your local monastery, but the monks will just instruct you to say 25 Hail Marys and call it a day. Likewise, you could visit the doctor, who just bought a new cordless drill.
Then, one day you hear about this place in northwestern Spain, hundreds of miles from your home. It’s a cathedral, built upon the grave of an apostle.
People from all over the world are traveling to this sacred place. Farmers and peasants. Lords and ladies. Rich and poor.
Immediately, you’re thinking, “That’s it! I must go there!” The next morning, you’ve already packed your satchel. You tell your wife that you’re walking to walk to Spain.
Um. What? Your wife freaks out. Spain? What about your life? What about your farm? No more breakfast beer for you, pal.
“But I must go,” you insist. “I must walk the Camino de Santiago.”
So your wife says, “Well, then I’m going with you.”
You both leave on foot. You become pilgrims. Your full-time job is walking. You sleep alongside the highway. You eat the food of charity, for you have no money.
After months of walking, you arrive at your destination. But by then, you have already had a huge realization. Your cup is indeed runnething all over, but it’s not the cathedral that made it overflow. Neither is it the bones of some dead guy.
It was the walk. It was simply moving your feet. Sweating in the sunlight alongside strangers who all wanted the same thing you did. God.
It was time spent with your wife. It was the strange magic that helped you on your path, as though the universe had conspired to help you succeed.
Above all, it was the fact that you took your own spirit, your own heart so seriously, that you did not just let it die of neglect.
In five days, I’ll be taking that same journey.
SEAN DIETRICH
In The Kitchen with Loren Wood
There’s nothing quite like having a cold-crafted cocktail with fresh ingredients at your favorite restaurant. What’s better? Impress your friends with your cocktail-making skills at your next get-together. The elements of this recipe are easily made ahead. The syrup and tea can both be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Cheers!
Strawberry Peach Tea Martini
Yield: makes 2 drinks
8-ounces strawberries, trimmed and halved
1/3 cup sugar
1 peach-flavored green tea bag*
1 cup boiling water
2 ounces fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon maple syrup
3 ounces vanilla-flavored vodka**
In a blender, combine strawberries and 1/3 cup water. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds. In a fine-mesh strainer set over a small saucepan, strain the mixture, discarding the solids. Add sugar to the strawberry mixture and cook over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and strain again into a separate container. Cool to room temperature, approximately 1 hour. Cover and refrigerate until serving, or up to 1 week.
Meanwhile, place a peach-flavored green tea bag into a liquid measuring cup. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the tea bag. Steep for 5-7 minutes, or as directed on the package. Remove the tea bag and discard. Cool slightly at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes. Cover and chill until ready to use, or up to 1 week.
When you are ready to serve, prepare 2 martini glasses by filling with ice to chill while you shake the cocktail.
Fill a cocktail shaker or a large mason jar halfway with ice. Add 3/4 cup of strawberry syrup, 1/2 cup of peach tea, lemon juice, maple syrup, and coconut rum. Cover and shake vigorously, about 20 seconds. Strain into two chilled martini glasses. Garnish as desired.
*Peach-flavored green tea can be found at most grocery stores. The Bigelow brand or The Republic of Tea brand are both excellent choices.
**This drink works well as a mocktail, also. Just omit the vodka.
Here are this month’s book recommendations from April at the Chelsea Public Library.
A darkly funny sci-fi/LitRPG novel about survival in the weirdest possible apocalypse. When aliens destroy Earth, the surviving humans are forced into a massive, 18-level underground dungeon that’s broadcast as a reality TV show to the galaxy. Every trap, monster, and boss fight is part of the entertainment. The story follows Carl, an average guy caught outside when the world ends, and Princess Donut, his ex-girlfriend’s now magically intelligent (and extremely dramatic) cat. Together, they battle monsters, level up with RPG-style stats and loot, and try to survive while alien audiences watch, rate, and sponsor them.
A dual-timeline historical mystery set in New York’s Thousand Islands.In 1907, fiveyear-old Poppy Pendleton vanishes from her family’s castle the same night her father is found dead, leaving behind a decades-old mystery. In 1992, Chloe Ridell becomes unexpectedly drawn into the cold case when a young girl with ties to the Pendleton family appears. As secrets unravel, past and present collide, revealing truth, healing, and long-buried hope.
A multigenerational novel set in small-town Ohio, beginning on V-E Day in 1945. A spontaneous kiss between Cal Jenkins and Margaret Salt — both married to other people — quietly binds their families together for decades. As the story follows their lives and those of their spouses and children, long-held secrets, regrets, and loyalties ripple through generations. It’s a character-driven story about love, choices, and how one moment can shape a lifetime.
A fast-paced thriller about Maggie McCabe, a former Army surgeon whose life unravels after personal tragedy and losing her medical license. Desperate for a fresh start, she accepts a secretive, high-paying medical job overseas. But when a patient mysteriously disappears, Maggie is pulled into a dangerous international conspiracy that may connect to her late husband — and puts her own life at risk. It’s a globe-trotting suspense story packed with twists, secrets, and high stakes.
“Skyshade”
by Alex Aster
The third book in The Lightlark Saga, it continues the story of Isla Crown, whose heart and destiny are torn between two rulers — Grim, king of Nightshade, and Oro, king of Lightlark. After devastating battles and shocking truths, Isla must confront a looming evil and a prophecy that could destroy both kingdoms. With time running out and her power more dangerous than ever, she faces impossible choices that could either save the world or doom it.
“Dungeon Crawler Carl” by Matt Dinniman
“Buckeye” by Patrick Ryan
“The Wings of Poppy Pendleton” by Melanie Dobson
“Gone Before Goodbye” by Harlan Coben and Reese Witherspoon
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
Mondays- April 6, 13, 20 and 27: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 12-14). 4-6 p.m.
Wednesdays- April 1, 8, 15 and 29: Tot Time. 10:30 a.m.
Thursdays- April 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30: Musical Munchkins at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
Thursdays- April 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 15 and up). 4:45-6:45 p.m.
Thursdays- April 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30: Bring your own craft. 5:30 p.m.
Fridays- April 10, 17 and 24: Bring your own craft. 1 p.m.
April 3: The library will be closed for Good Friday.
April 4: Chess Club. 11:30 a.m.
April 4: Teen DIY Buttons and Keychains. 10 a.m.
April 7: Teen DIY Buttons and Keychains. 5:30 p.m.
April 11: Lego Saturday. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
April 18: Second Annual Friends of the Library Plant & Seed Swap. 1-3 p.m. RSVP at www.friendsocl.com/events
April 20: Beyond Books. 6 p.m. Books and Bites book club will discuss “My Husband’s Wife” by Alice Feeney.
April 18: Pokemon trading club. 10 a.m.
April 25: K.Z.T. Steam Day. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Living well happens
Living with a chronic health condition doesn’t mean childhood has to stop. At Children’s of Alabama, we make sure kids can keep doing what they do best—laughing, playing, and simply being kids. With expert care, advanced treatments, and a team that never stops believing in brighter days, we help families navigate their healthcare journey with confidence, strength, and hope.
We are here in your neighborhood at Greenvale Pediatrics - Brook Highland. Call 205-995-1004 to schedule an appointment.
PHOTO BY BRITTNEY FIELDS
Home Improvement with Matt Weber
Matt Weber is editor of Home Improvement & Repairs magazine based in Birmingham, Alabama.
more at www.homeimprovementandrepairs.com.
Renovations with the Best ROI
Now that the weather is warming, we begin the season of home improvements. What should you focus on? It makes sense to begin with what is broken or needs repaired. Next, consider what areas should function better. Drafty windows, for example, contribute to higher energy bills.
As far as optional enhancements, if you plan to stick around the house for a long time then focus on whatever makes the home more comfortable, convenient and enjoyable. On the other hand, homeowners who are considering a move in the near future may want to focus on renovations that provide the most return on investment.
Return on investment (ROI) refers to how much of the remodeling cost you’re likely to recoup when selling your home. Projects with high ROI generally improve functionality or enhance curb appeal, making your home more attractive to buyers.
In competitive real estate areas, modest renovations can boost a home’s sale price. Appearance certainly matters to potential buyers, and upgrades to curb appeal such as new siding and garage doors offer outsized value for relatively low cost.
In fact, garage door replacement is reported to provide the best bang for your buck when it comes to home renovations. Each year, various real estate and remodeling companies publish research on renovation ROIs, and garage door replacement seems to always reign supreme. According to Hippo Home Insurance, replacing your garage door could achieve an ROI of 193.9 percent. The report pegs the average cost of replacement at $4,513 and the average resale value at $8,751.
Second place in the ROI contest typically goes to replacement of an entry door if it’s made of steel, featuring an ROI of 188 percent. However, upgrading to a “grand entryway” (fiberglass) achieves an ROI of roughly 97 percent, because the door is more expensive.
Additional upgrades that achieve substantial ROI include stone veneer installation (153%), siding replacement (80-88%), and minor kitchen remodels (96%). In this case, “minor” refers to refacing cabinets, replacing countertops and upgrading appliances. (Stick to classic styles and neutral colors to appeal to future buyers.)
Deck additions recoup about 83 percent of the cost for wood decking and 68 percent for the pricier composite boards.
Further down the line, a midrange bathroom remodel will get about 74 percent ROI. New vinyl windows return 67 percent, whereas installing wood windows will return 63 percent. It’s important to note, however, that upgrading from leaky windows to new insulated units can achieve significant savings in utility costs, which can
make the upfront cost more attractive for homeowners who plan to stay in the house and pay the bills.
If you’re remodeling your home with intent to sell it, consider the current market trends and local buyer preferences. If the budget or time is tight, just focus on the high-impact items.
You can also improve your ROI on certain projects by doing the work yourself. I am currently remodeling my third home and have personally saved thousands with this approach. However, I have a lot of tools and experience. If you’re considering doing the work yourself, be honest about the limitations of your skillset. You should also plan on spending at least twice the amount of time on any given project than you initially estimated. Certain tasks, such as painting or cabinet refacing, can be accomplished by first-timers, but when it comes to installing windows, doors or electrical work, I recommend that inexperienced homeowners hire a pro. You would not want to kill your ROI with mistakes or poor workmanship.
Spring Craft fair returns
By Leah Ingram Eagle
What started as a simple idea to bring people together has grown into one of Chelsea’s favorite spring traditions.
The Spring Craft Fair returns on Saturday, April 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Chelsea Community Center. According to event organizer Megan Schmotz, it just keeps getting bigger.
“This will be our fourth year,” Schmotz said. “Jane Ann Mueller and I started talking back in 2023 about things we could do to bring the community together. We have this great event space where we can host fun things, and we thought of modeling it after other local spring fairs would be a great fit for Chelsea.”
From the beginning, hosting the event indoors was intentional. “It’s the perfect space,” Schmotz said. “Being inside means the weather doesn’t hinder you. Vendors and shoppers don’t have to worry about rain or wind. It just makes for a more relaxed experience.”
The event has continued to grow each year, and now uses both gyms as well as the hall space at the community center.
The fair now caps participation at about 55 to 60 vendors, though organizers do their best to accommodate those on the waitlist.
“Sign-ups lasted the entire month of March, but honestly, it’s usually full within a week,” Schmotz said. “After that we start a waitlist. If we have five people on the waitlist, we try to squeeze them in.”
This year, organizers streamlined the process by creating two separate registrations: one for vendors and one specifically for food trucks, which have also increased.
Returning food favorites include Chick-fil-A Greystone and Mo and Moore’s BBQ, along with a rotating lineup of additional trucks and sweet treats.
Shoppers will find a variety of items from handmade candles, soaps and lip balms to jewelry, clothing, crochet items, quilts, wreaths and original art. Vendors like With an H Permanent Jewelry, Eleanor Greetings, Salt Artisan Bakery, Chelsea Florist and Clark’s Cakes are among the familiar names that return each year. The Chelsea Public Library will also host a book sale.
“We’ve had some people there from the very beginning,” Schmotz said. “One of the most positive things for us is how many repeat vendors come back and tell us it’s a good event.”
While the event has expanded, Schmotz emphasizes that profit has never been the primary goal.
“There’s definitely a cost to do it,” she said. “Like everything else in the world, the cost of things has gone up. It’s not a big money-making thing for us. It’s really just something to do for the community. If there’s a little profit, great, but that’s not why we do it.”
Vendors are provided one table and two chairs, with the option to rent additional tables. Organizers also work closely with participants to accommodate specific needs.
“We try to do a lot of accommodating,” Schmotz said. “If someone wants to be next to a friend or needs a power outlet, we try to get them where they want to be as best we can.”
Communication is another priority.
“I send out emails ahead of time with instruc-
tions and a layout,” Schmotz said. “We’ve gotten overwhelmingly great feedback from vendors — a lot of positive comments about communication leading up to the event and just appreciation for being included.”
Pulling off an event of this size takes teamwork. “Jane Ann and I really tag-team it,” Schmotz said. “I handle all the graphics, social media and vendor correspondence. She takes care of rentals and makes sure we have the tables and everything we need. Other community center staff are in charge of setting up tables and getting everything set up and taken down.”
The Community Center will close early on Friday afternoon so setup can begin, and vendors are allowed to enter at 8 a.m. on Saturday, an hour before doors open to the public. “It’s pretty much all hands on deck,” Schmotz said.
To help with parking, additional spaces are available at Liberty Baptist Church and near the splash pad. A golf cart shuttle will be available for those who need assistance.
The Spring Craft Fair is free and open to the public, making it an easy, family-friendly way to shop locally and celebrate the season.
“It’s just a fun day,” Schmotz said. “A chance to support small businesses, see familiar faces and enjoy being together. That’s really what it’s all about.”
For updates, vendor highlights and event information, follow the Chelsea Community Center on Facebook and Instagram or visit cityofchelsea.com/202/ChelseaCommunity-Center
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
Let Them Fail
Somewhere along the way, parenting became confused with protection from discomfort. Not protection from harm. Discomfort is frustration, disappointment, confusion, embarrassment, and consequences. By trying to spare children from these experiences (and also ourselves from our own discomfort), we’ve quietly robbed them of the very thing that builds resilience: failure.
Failure has gotten a bad reputation. Letting children fail sounds harsh, uncaring, even negligent. But true failure, the kind that happens within safe, appropriate boundaries, is not neglect. It’s healthy instruction.
Children are not as fragile emotionally as we make them out to be. They are adaptive, learning organisms. And, bluntly, the nervous system does not mature through perfection or constant rescue (or participation trophies); it matures through experience. Specifically, through getting it wrong and surviving, and trying your best and still coming up short.
When a child forgets their homework and receives a lower grade, something important happens. Their brain connects actions to outcomes. When they misjudge a situation, feel embarrassed, or realize they misunderstood instructions, they learn how to pause, reassess, and try again. They also figure out their own value system, whether “the juice is worth the squeeze,” so to speak. These moments are developmental milestones that are required for the benefit of growth.
The problem is that many adults feel compelled to intervene before these lessons land. We email teachers. We argue grading policies. We explain away responsibility. We preemptively manage outcomes so our children never have to sit in discomfort long enough to learn from it. And while this may soothe adult anxiety in the short term, it creates long-term costs for children.
A child who is consistently buffered from failure doesn’t learn competence; they learn dependence. They don’t learn accountability; they learn that someone else will absorb the impact. They don’t develop confidence; they develop fragility masked as entitlement or avoidance.
Failure teaches skills no lecture can. It teaches honesty, because lying becomes less useful when consequences aren’t outsourced. It teaches problem-solving, because someone has to figure out what to do next. It teaches emotional regulation, because disappointment must be tolerated, named, and metabolized, rather than avoided and erased.
Importantly, failure also teaches trust. When a parent allows a child to experience natural consequences without panic or overreaction, the message is clear: “I believe you can handle this.” That belief becomes internalized. Children begin to trust themselves.
This does not mean abandoning children to chaos or withholding support. It means staying present without controlling the outcome, and without trying to eradicate adult discomfort in the name of helping the child. It means curiosity instead of rescue. Questions instead of solutions. It means allowing space for struggle while maintaining connection.
Childhood is designed for this kind of learning. As they grow, systems become more complex. Expectations increase. Independence is slowly required. These are not design flaws; they are intentional. When parents rush in to smooth every bump, they undermine the very structure meant to help children grow.
Children who are allowed to fail appropriately tend to become adults who can tolerate feedback, take responsibility, adapt under pressure, and recover from mistakes. These are not accidental traits. They are practiced skills.
So yes, failure is not only acceptable, it is absolutely necessary.
The most loving parenting choice is not preventing every fall, but standing close enough to say, calmly and confidently: “You’ll be okay. Let’s see what you learn from this.”
Failure is not the opposite of success. It is the path to it.
School News: Chelsea Park
A special visitor
James Spann visited CPES’ 3rd graders last month to discuss severe weather and safety. Students learned about weather balloons, radar, how to read a weather map, weather safety, and the importance of having a weather radio at home.
Showcase of Schools
CPES was represented by Mrs. Tolbert and her students at the Showcase of Schools in February where they showed guests how they learned to code and fly drones.
Recognizing counselors
CPES counselors Mrs. Cashion and Mrs. Perrin were recognized for National School Counselor’s Week.
Character in Action
Congratulations to Emma Kilgroe for being recognized as Chelsea Park’s Character in Action recipient.
Liberty Learning celebration
Second graders from Shelby County Schools, including Chelsea Park Elementary School and Forest Oaks Elementary School, filled the Shelby County Arts Council auditorium after completing 10 weeks of the Hands on Liberty program through the Liberty Learning Foundation.
Through this impactful program, students learned valuable lessons in civics, character, financial literacy, and social studies. As part of the celebration, they honored local heroes by reading essays from the stage and presenting them with Liberty Pins — learning firsthand that “when you honor a hero, you become a hero!”
The event was made possible by the Shelby County Community Alliance, whose donation of Super Citizen teaching kits helps inspire and empower our Next Great Americans.
Joining the celebration was Chelsea Mayor Cody Sumners; Peg Hill, Shelby County Board of Education Member; Nathan Kendrick with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office; Forest Oaks Elementary Principal Stevi Sims; Chelsea Park Elementary Assistant Principal Jessi Adams; school teachers and staff; and other special guests.
Support Person of the Year
Mrs. Alison Jeffries was chosen as the school’s Support Person of the Year by faculty and staff. Jeffries is a paraprofessional at CPES.
SRO Appreciation
Deputy Saunders was recognized for SRO Appreciation Day in February.
Celebrating America’s birthday
Shelby County Schools has been officially named a Semiquincentennial School District. This means every one of our schools is going above and beyond to integrate American heritage into the classroom, prioritize student wellness, and give back through local community service. As we approach America’s 250th birthday, our students are learning what it truly means to be an engaged citizen. Pictured is Mayor Cody Sumners with FOES Principal Stevi Sims along with students.
Support Person of the Year
Congratulations to Robin Bosshart for becoming the FOES 2025-26 Support Person of the Year. Mrs. Bosshart is the bookkeeper for the school who keeps everyone “all in check!”
Sweet treats
FOES students enjoyed their first shaved ice day of 2026 hosted by the PTO. Everyone enjoyed their special treats!
Teacher Appreciation Week
Our wonderful PTO celebrated and loved on our teachers the week of Feb. 23-27. They enjoyed coffee from Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Hoover (courtesy of These Three Boutique, a taco bar from Taco Mama, a waffle bar from Waffle House, lunch from Taziki’scourtesy of Morningstar Methodist Church and Shining Stars Preschool and Mother’s Day Out.) The week wrapped up with everyone receiving “Willy Wonka Chocolate Bars” and a chance to win “The Golden Ticket” which consisted of some amazing prizes
“We truly love and appreciate everything our PTO does to help make FOES such a GREAT place,” said Principal Stevi Sims.
SRO Appreciation Day
FOES celebrated their amazing SRO, Deputy Ken Prady, on February 17. Deputy Prady consistently ensures a safe environment at Forest Oaks while building positive relationships with students, faculty and parents.
School News: Chelsea Middle
Art Field Trip
Mrs. Thompson’s 8th Grade art students enjoyed a fun field trip to Sloss Furnace in February.
Special performance
The show choir recently traveled to Forest Oaks Elementary and Chelsea Park Elementary to perform for the 5th graders and talk a bit about choir in middle school. They performed Dancing Through Life from “Wicked,” and “This is Me from “The Greatest Showman.”
SRO Appreciation
National School Resource Officer Day was in February and ChMS celebrated Deputy Bisch for all that he does to keep the school safe.
Showing the love
ChMS PTO treated the staff to a special Valentine’s Day Soup Lunch and gifted all general education and special education classroom teachers with $100 to use for classroom items on their Wish List.
Band festival
Congratulations to the 42 ChMS Band students that participated in the Shelby County All-County Band Festival last month. Mrs. Deana Rizzo, retired band director who taught 30 years at Chelsea Middle School, was their clinician and did a wonderful job.
Showcase of Schools
Cecily Hendrickson and Javi LaRota shared how they use MagicSchool AI to get writing feedback on the final drafts of various types of essays. They also introduced the Character Chatbot feature that allows them to converse with the personas of historical figures to supplement research. Ellie Wilks and Reagan Kirby went and represented the ChMS Art program. They showed off many of their art projects, talked about field trips and demonstrated how to screen print. Students helped visitors create their own screen print to take home.
App winner
ChMS won the district Middle School grade band of the Governor’s App Challenge! A huge congratulations to Wesley Thuresson for his app, “Lunch Link.” Wesley will present his app in April at the 2026 Alabama Computer Science Summit.
School News: Chelsea High
Recognizing counselors
Last month featured National School Counseling Week, and Ms. Delaine, Ms. Fowler, and Ms. Miller were recognized for their service to CHHS students.
Sports signings
Natalie Peacock has signed to play soccer at Southern Union and Stratton Hodges will continue his golf career at Coastal Alabama Community College.
Showing great character
Drew Harris was recognized as the Chelsea High School Character in Action award recipient. This award is given to a student at each Shelby County school who displays exemplary character. It was created to acknowledge those students going above and beyond the norm and setting good examples for other students to follow. In addition to the student nominees, the Character in Action program also acknowledges parents/ guardians for their efforts to instill strong morals and values in their children.
Acts of service
The CHHS Ambassadors served at feedbhm (Grace Klein) in Pelham last month. Many of them served last year, around the same time, at the same place, and they could not believe the change in the space. They painted, organized, cleaned, prepared welcomed bags and more.
SRO
Appreciation Day
SRO Officer Duvall was recently recognized for his work at CHHS.
App winners
Congratulations to the winners of Chelsea High’s division of the Governor’s App Challenge! Chase Diamond and Landon Hartline advance to the District Competition with their app, CEAN!
Showcase of Schools
Chelsea High School was represented well by the Chamber Choir, Health Science Internship students, and Peer Helpers at the Shelby County Showcase of Schools in February.
School News: Shelby County
Honoring character
The Shelby County Schools Character In Action awards ceremony was held in February. Congratulations to all of the students, who were selected by teachers, counselors, and administrators for displaying respect, courage, responsibility, friendship, and kindness toward others.
Science Fair
Big questions and bold ideas from students were brought to life at the 2026 Shelby County District Science Fair. Congratulations to the top six projects advancing to UAB’s CARSEF on March 7th. ChMS student Peyton Moody won first place for her project “Motherhood In Question.”
2026 Showcase of Schools
At the annual event in February, students from all Shelby County Schools proudly shared the programs, opportunities, and experiences that make their school special. Stakeholders along with community leaders attended the event to connect with the district and celebrate the students.
Band festival
The All-County Band Festival brought together outstanding middle and high school performers for two days of collaboration and learning alongside Composer-in-Residence Rossano Galante, culminating in powerful performances by Shelby County band students.
Shelby 101
At the February session of Shelby 101,participants heard from several gifted program students as they showcased some of their robot projects, explored Career Technical Education, and learned from several of our central office leaders about more of the work happening across the district. The day also included a tour of CTEC, offering a firsthand look at the hands-on pathways preparing our students for future success.
NBCT conference
Shelby County Schools’ National Board Certified Teachers gathered for their annual conference in February. They were welcomed by Superintendent Dr. Lewis Brooks and enjoyed a keynote presentation by Mrs. Katie Collins, Alabama Teacher of the Year and National Teacher of the Year finalist. They also participated in professional development sessions and roundtable discussion designed to deepen their understanding, strengthen instructional practices, and foster meaningful collaboration with colleagues across the district.
Events in and around Chelsea
April 4: Easter Eggstravaganza. 1-3 p.m. City Hall Lawn 11611 Chelsea Rd. Hosted by local churches, a Saturday offering a fun, family-friendly afternoon of activities, a petting zoo, and an Easter Egg Hunt. cityofchelsea.com
April 7: Chelsea precouncil meeting, 5 p.m. Chelsea City Council Meeting. 6 p.m. Chelsea City Hall. 11611 Chelsea Rd. cityofchelsea.com
April 11: 2nd Annual Cornhole Tournament. 1-4 p.m. Cat-n-Bird Winery 11661 Old Highway 280, Chelsea. Registration starts at 12pm. $50 per team. For more information visit their Facebook page or website cat-n-bird.com
April 18: Pinwheels for Prevention Event: 10 a.m. to noon. Chelsea City Hall 11611 Chelsea Rd. A family friendly event focused on child abuse prevention awareness and access to local support resources. cityofchelsea.com
April 21: Chelsea precouncil meeting, 5 p.m. Chelsea City Council Meeting. 6 p.m. Chelsea City Hall 11611 Chelsea Rd. cityofchelsea.com
April 25: Spring Craft Fair: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Chelsea Community Center 11101 Hwy 47. Features vendors, local food trucks, and an opportunity to support small businesses. Free entry for all. cityofchelsea.com
Chelsea Community Center
First Monday: Spectrum Support of Chelsea. 6:30 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.
Monday: Beginner Pickleball 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Monday: Intermediate Pickleball 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Monday: Card Players. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Chelsea Community Center. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just learning, this community card-playing group welcomes all. Meet new friends, enjoy great games, and make lasting memories. Free.
Monday and Thursday: Rev + Flow. Mondays 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Thursdays 5:15-6:15 p.m.REV+FLOW strengthens bodies and sculpts muscles through targeted music-based movement and resistance training. Classes are free.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: Senior Aerobics Class First class 8:15-9 a.m. Second class 9-9:45 a.m. A 45-minute class that centers around ADLs (Activities of Daily Living). The focus is on functional exercises that keep us healthy, energetic, and independent. All levels and abilities are welcome. Bring small hand weights & a water bottle. Taught by Keri McIntire, a certified instructor specializing in senior fitness. Free.
Monday, Wednesday Friday: Advanced and High Trial Pickleball Sessions 8-11 a.m.
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Chair Aerobics. 10 a.m. Chair exercises to upbeat music and choreographed for fun movements and resistance training. Equipment is supplied. Free.
Monday, Wednesday and Friday: Hardcore Jeet Kune Do Self Defense Class- Monday (adult ages 17+): Monday 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Wednesday (adult ages 17+) 6-8 p.m.; Friday (youth ages 8-16) 4:30-6:30 p.m. Family atmosphere that improves coordination and increases coordination, agility, and flexibility. For more information contact 205-706-4728
Tuesday: Oyama Karate 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: REFIT Classes. Tuesday 4:15-5:15 p.m. and 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Thursday 6:30-7:30 p.m.; Saturday 8:30-9:30 a.m. Combining positive music with powerful moves to work your body, mind, and soul. Email getrefitwithshelley@gmail.com for more information or visit the REFIT website to learn more. Classes are free.
Wednesdays Textile Club: 10 a.m. to 2p.m. Sewing, crocheting, embroidery and quilting. Bring your project and a sack lunch. Adults only.
Wednesday and Friday: Beginner and Intermediate Pickleball 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Thursday: Pickleball Open Play 6-9 p.m.
Thursday: Senior Day Pot Luck and Games. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring a dish to share. Dominos, Rummikub, and Rook card games. Fellowship and fun. Free to the public.
Sunday: AA Meeting. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Join the AA meeting for support, strength, and understanding. Together, we face the journey to recovery one day at a time. Take the first step—hope starts here. 205-677-2052 ext. 1
Area Events
April 10-19: Alabama State Fair. Birmingham Race Course 1000 John Rogers Drive, Birmingham. Enjoy attractions, shows, carnival rides, kiddie rides, and fair food. For more information, visit Info@alabamastatefair.com or call 901-867-7007
April 25: Calera Strawberry Festival. noon to 5 p.m. Eagle Park 800 Eagle Way, Calera. Enjoy live music, shop from a wide variety of vendors and try out any one of a number of food options that will be present for the day’s festivities. caleraparkandrec.com
