Matthew Allen Publisher (205) 883-1877 matthew@jbmcmedia.com
Michelle Salem Haynes
Marketing Consultant (205) 381-1311 michelle@jbmcmedia.com
Emily VanderMey Listo Project Manager & Graphic Designer emily@emilylisto.com
Leah Ingram Eagle Content Director (205) 807-0834 leah@jbmcmedia.com
Hollie Brown Community Events Editor hollie@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 2026. All rights reserved.
Tony Bratina Cover Designer
Summer is flying by as we turn the calendar to July. We’re halfway through the season of long days, late sunsets, family vacations, backyard gatherings, and making memories with the people who matter most.
In this month’s issue, we’re highlighting some of the people and stories that make our community special.
Our cover story introduces readers to an inspiring senior meal delivery program by volunteers with Chelsea Citizens on Patrol (COPs) in partnership with the Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging (M4A). Their mission is to ensure that local residents in need receive nutritious meals each week.
We’ll also introduce you to Amy Nelson, owner of Salt Artisan Bakery, and the passion behind her handcrafted breads and baked goods. She has turned her love of baking into a business that is bringing people together one loaf at a time.
For sports fans, we profile Jennifer VanOekel,
the new head coach of Chelsea High School’s track and field program. Learn about her background, coaching philosophy, and vision for the future of the Hornets program.
Whether you’re spending July by the pool, traveling with family, or enjoying a quiet evening on the porch, thank you for taking Chelsea Magazine along with you. We’re grateful for the opportunity to share the stories of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make Chelsea such a wonderful place to call home.
Enjoy the issue and the rest of your summer!
Leah Eagle, Content Director
The Chaplains Corner
Satan you’re a liar You’re a loser tooYou have been defeated I have nothing to do with you; Through Christ I have been delivered I am free from your evil handInstead of doing your harmful work I am following God’s divine plan; I have always loved a good deed doer Now I am one of themI love doing good, to help, to lift another up The love of God has filled my cup; Jesus loves me this I know For the Bible tells me soLet us work, and go, and do Knowing we will reap whatever we sow; Instead of us being overcome of evil We overcome evil with good.
Chaplain Eddie Burchfield Love You All
Fresh Fire Evangelism, Chaplain Eddie Burchfield POB 53, Westover, Al. 35185 | 205-516-3427
By Leah Ingram Eagle
The Chelsea Citizens on Patrol (COPs) program is known for assisting the city with traffic control, supporting community events and serving as extra eyes and ears throughout the city. Now, the volunteer organization has added another role to its growing list of community services: delivering meals to local seniors and homebound residents.
Since April, COP volunteers have partnered with M4A (Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging) to provide weekly meal deliveries to qualifying residents in Chelsea. The initiative not only helps ensure recipients have access to nutritious meals, but also provides regular social interaction and wellness checks for some of the community’s most vulnerable residents.
The idea originated with Chelsea Mayor Cody Sumners, who recognized an opportunity for the COPs to become more involved in serving
residents beyond their traditional duties.
“Cody is very community-minded,” said COP volunteer and Chelsea City Council member Johnna Barnes. “He’s worked closely with M4A for a long time, and he saw a need where we could help.”
According to Barnes, Sumners noticed that emergency responders were frequently receiving calls to assist some of the same elderly residents.
“He saw that there were people who needed a little extra support and connection,” she said. “That led to conversations about whether the COPs could help deliver meals and check in on people on a regular basis.”
After discussions with M4A and Chelsea Citizens on Patrol leadership, the program officially launched April 9.
How it works
M4A oversees the meal program and determines eligibility for participants. The organization serves older adults, caregivers and individuals with disabilities throughout the region.
Each week, meal recipients receive a box containing five frozen meals along with milk, juice and snacks. The meals are designed to be easy to prepare, making them ideal for residents who may have difficulty cooking for themselves.
“We compare them to Healthy Choice-style meals,” Barnes said. “Everything is packaged individually, and they can simply heat them in the microwave.”
The meals arrive at Chelsea’s Senior Lodge on Thursday mornings. From there, COP volunteers sort deliveries, load the meals into insulated bags and begin their routes.
Because the meals must remain frozen, volunteers have a two-hour window to complete deliveries. The program began with nine recipients and has already expanded to 12.
Approximately 15 to 16 COP volunteers regularly participate in deliveries, with additional members serving as backups when needed.
Before deliveries began, volunteers completed training with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, including a de-escalation course designed to prepare them for situations they might encounter during delivery days.
M4A representatives also provided instruction on delivery procedures, safety requirements and program guidelines.
“We wanted to make sure everyone was prepared,” Barnes said. “You never know what situation you might encounter when visiting someone’s home.”
The training has helped volunteers feel confident while also ensuring recipients receive the highest level of service.
While the meals themselves are important, Barnes said the relationships formed through the program have become one of its greatest benefits.
Each week, volunteers contact recipients before delivery day to confirm schedules and make sure they will be home. Those conversations often become much more than simple check-ins.
“We’ve really built relationships with them,” Barnes said. “Some people want to talk for an hour when you call. Others just want a quick text. Everybody is different.”
Volunteers frequently spend time talking with recipients when delivering meals, creating personal connections that many residents look forward to each week.
“I think they enjoy seeing us as much as we enjoy seeing them,” she said.
For residents who live alone, have limited mobility or no longer drive, those visits can provide meaningful social interaction.
Some recipients simply need meals delivered to their porch. Others welcome the opportu-
nity to visit and share stories.
“The response has been wonderful,” Barnes said. “They’re very appreciative of the meals, but they also appreciate having someone check on them and spend a few minutes talking.”
The program represents a new chapter for Chelsea’s Citizens on Patrol organization.
“This gives us another way to serve our community,” Barnes said. “We love our patrols and our events, but this lets us reach people on a more personal level.”
She believes the program is also helping residents gain a broader understanding of what Citizens on Patrol does.
“A lot of people don’t realize everything the COPs are involved in,” she said. “This shows another side of the program and gives us another opportunity to help.”
The partnership with M4A is also helping strengthen connections throughout the region. While Chelsea currently has 12 meal recipients, volunteers are prepared to serve residents in the neighboring town of Westover. Information about the program has been shared
with Westover officials, and COP volunteers are ready to expand deliveries when additional participants are identified.
The effort aligns with a larger goal of increasing community engagement and ensuring residents know they have support available.
“Cody’s vision has always been about bringing people together,” Barnes said. “This is one more example of that.”
Although the program has only been operating since April, volunteers say it has already become one of the most rewarding aspects of their service. For volunteers, it offers a meaningful opportunity to give back.
And for the community, it serves as a reminder that sometimes the simplest acts of service can have the greatest impact.
“It’s been a blessing for everyone involved,” Barnes said. “We look forward to Thursdays. We look forward to seeing them. And we’re excited to keep growing the program and helping more people.”
For more information on the meal delivery program, visit m4a.org.
By Leah Ingram Eagle
When Amy Nelson was just 15-years-old, she underwent surgery to have her gallbladder removed after suffering from gallstones. What followed was a decades-long journey of digestive issues, doctor visits, medications, and frustration.
“For 20 years, I dealt with feeling terrible and not knowing what to do,” Nelson said.
Despite countless appointments, no one ever asked a question that would ultimately change her life: What was she eating?
As a nurse, Nelson was accustomed to helping others find solutions to health challenges. Yet when it came to her own health, she found herself caught in a cycle of treatments that addressed symptoms rather than causes.
Everything changed when she met a nutritionist who encouraged her to examine her diet and eliminate foods that might be triggering her symptoms.
“It was hard,” Nelson said with a laugh. “I was definitely hangry.”
But the results were undeniable. By 2021, after years of trial and error, Nelson finally began feeling better. It was then she began researching sourdough bread and became fascinated by the creation process and its potential health benefits for digestion.
What began as a simple experiment quickly became something much bigger.
One of her friends shared a sourdough starter, and Nelson baked her first loaf. Unlike many gluten-free alternatives she had tried, this bread actually tasted good—and, more importantly, it didn’t leave her feeling sick.
“I realized I could eat it and feel good,” she said.
Soon she began sharing loaves with friends who had similar dietary restrictions.
“People would say, ‘This is miracle bread.’”
At the time, Nelson and her family had recently moved from Columbiana to Chelsea and was settling into life as a homeschooling mother. She said starting a bakery wasn’t even on her radar.
“I wasn’t looking to open a business,” she said. “I just wondered if this bread could help someone else eat bread again.”
Three years ago, she posted on Facebook that she had a few extra loaves available. The loaves sold quickly. Then more people asked for bread. Then even more.
“I felt like I became a magnet for people with gut problems,” she said.
The business grew organically through word-of-mouth, by customers searching for foods that fit their dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Inside the Nelson home, the operation began modestly. Amy purchased her first Dutch oven and baked around her family’s homeschooling schedule. Before long, one Dutch oven became two, and a commercial oven was installed in the family’s living room.
As demand continued to grow, the family adapted. They added dedicated bakery space to their home and transformed part of their daily routine around the business.
Today, Nelson operates Salt Artisan Bakery, a cottage-food bakery specializing in sourdough products and baked goods made with thoughtfully selected ingredients. While bread remains the cornerstone of the business, the menu has expanded to include bagels, waffles, cookies, scones, cinnamon rolls, pizza crusts, burger buns, and more.
Because Nelson personally cannot eat gluten, dairy, yeast, refined sugars, or red meat, she has spent years researching and testing recipes that accommodate dietary restrictions while still delivering great taste.
“We’ve figured it out,” she said. “It’s not just for people with restrictions. We have a lot of customers who can eat everything and still enjoy our products.”
Her ingredient lists reflect that philosophy. Depending on the recipe, she uses alternative flours, organic cane sugar, honey, maple syrup, dairy-free butter, and other ingredients.
The family remains deeply involved in the business. Nelson’s husband washes all her dishes and creates specialty sauces, including barbecue sauce, honey mustard, teriyaki sauce, and even an egg-free mayonnaise inspired by their son’s food sensitivities. Her mother, whom Nelson calls her “right-hand woman,” prepares the bakery’s popular dairy-free honey butter spread and assists at events.
Nelson starts most days at 4 a.m. with Bible study before heading into the bakery at 5 a.m. She works to complete much of her baking before the homeschool day begins, then returns later to prepare doughs and shape loaves.
“Family comes first,” she said.
That commitment has helped shape her business, which has grown to approximately 120 to 150 orders each week.
Customers once picked up bread directly from the Nelson family’s driveway. Later, she loaded orders into her minivan and met customers in a parking lot near Publix, where lines would form behind her vehicle as people waited for their weekly bread pickup.
Today, customers place preorders through the bakery’s website, and Salt Artisan Bakery has become a popular fixture at the Chelsea Farmers Market, which takes place each Saturday through Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. to noon at Chelsea City Hall. It was actually Nelson who encouraged city event promoter and planner, Brandy Pate, to start the weekly farmer’s market, wich has introduced Nelson’s products to an even wider audience.
“It blew my mind, the people who have shown up,” she said.
While she loves baking, Nelson says teaching may be her favorite part of the business. She regularly hosts sourdough classes in churches, homes, community groups, and local organizations.
“I want to do more than give someone a loaf of bread,” she said. “I want to teach them how to make food for their family.”
Participants can stay connected through private online groups where Nelson continues mentoring them as they learn the sourdough process.
For Nelson, the bakery has always been about more than bread.
“I want people to be able to feel good,” she said.
Looking ahead, she has a dream tucked away in the back of her mind: a coffee shop and bakery where neighbors can gather, enjoy good food, and create memories together. “I believe Chelsea needs a place like that,” she said.
For now, however, she’s content to keep growing Salt Artisan Bakery one loaf at a time. “I’ll do it as long as God lets me,” she said.
For more information or to place an order, visit saltartisanbakery.com.
Scouting America Troop 1319 attended the May 7 Chelsea City Council Meeting. The troop led the Pledge of Allegiance before the meeting and stayed to learn more about how local government works in the City of Chelsea. When asked what patch they were working toward, their troop leaders, Monica McDaniel and Ray Methvin shared that the scouts were earning their “Citizenship in the Community” badge — a meaningful achievement focused on understanding local government, community leadership, and service to others. Scouting America Troop 1319 meets every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Chelsea Community Center. Young ladies ages 11–17 are invited to join and learn more about leadership, service, outdoor skills, and friendship.
At the May 5 City Council Meeting, Mayor Cody Sumners presented a proclamation recognizing May 3–9, 2026, as Professional Municipal Clerks Week in the City of Chelsea. This was to recognize and celebrate the incredible team that serves our community with dedication and professionalism each and every day:
• Crystal Etheredge, City Clerk
• Shea Callahan, Assistant to the City Clerk
• Bella Roshaven, Administrative and Accounting Assistant Municipal clerks play a critical role in local government—serving as the central point of communication, maintaining official records, supporting elected officials, and ensuring transparency and continuity in city operations. Council Members and Mayor commended Etheredge and her team for their organization, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving the City of Chelsea.
The Shelby County Commission, in partnership with the City of Chelsea and the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), began the replacement of the Liberty Road bridge in May. The existing bridge is more than 54-years-old and must be replaced to support the continued growth and increased traffic in the Chelsea area. To complete the project safely and efficiently, Liberty Road will be closed at the bridge site during construction. The closure is scheduled through August 5, 2026, while school is out for summer break, to help reduce traffic impacts as much as possible. During construction, traffic will be detoured along:
• County Road 433
• County Road 440
• County Road 39
• County Road 47
Detour signs will be posted throughout the area to assist motorists. Shelby County has also coordinated with emergency services, postal carriers, and sanitation providers to help minimize service disruptions during the closure. Motorists are reminded to use caution and obey all traffic signage, especially the stop signs at the railroad crossing on CR-433. For questions or concerns, please contact the Shelby County Highway Department at 205-669-3880 or visit roadconcern. shelbyal.com.
Isabella “Bella” Roshaven was recently hired as the City of Chelsea’s Administrative & Accounting Assistant. Roshaven started her new position in April, and previously worked at the Chelsea Public Library. Visitors to City Hall will be greeted by Roshaven as she continues training under Assistant to the City Clerk, Shea Callahan, while also supporting Theresa Morris, Accounts Payable Clerk.
Owen Watkins was hired as the City of Chelsea’s new Building Official effective April 20. Watkins brings more than 30 years of experience in the residential and commercial building industry. Over the past four years, he has served the citizens and business community of Pelham, Alabama, through their Development Services and Public Works Department. In his new role, he will oversee building inspections, permitting, and code compliance.
Doors to Floors & More is now open at 11825 Highway 280 in Westover. Store owner Connor Smith says they offer a one-stop shop for contractors, remodelers, and DIYers alike. Their showroom features a large inventory of interior and exterior doors, flooring, roofing, shingles, accessories, and more. They're open from 6:30am-3:30pm MondayFriday. For more information, follow them on Facebook or call (205) 601-0044.
Your Local Implant Expert — Right Here in Chelsea. Dr. Steven Beard trained under oral surgeons, prosthodontists, anesthesiologists, and periodontists, gaining advanced surgical skills often not found in general practice.
The Chelsea High School Class of 2026 celebrated graduation on May 19, 2026, at the Pete Hanna Center on the campus of Samford University. The ceremony, held at 1 p.m., honored 337 graduates as they marked the culmination of their high school careers. Academic achievement was a standout theme of the day, with 105 students recognized as Honor Graduates for earning a GPA of 4.0 or higher. Valedictorian Sarrah Serrano addressed her classmates during the ceremony, reflecting on their accomplishments and future opportunities. Collectively, the graduating class earned an impressive $8.4 million in scholarship offers, highlighting the hard work and dedication of Chelsea’s newest alumni.
Isola by Allegra Goodman
The story of Marguerite de la Rocque, a young French noblewoman abandoned on a remote island in 16th-century Canada after falling in love during a voyage to the New World. Forced to survive harsh conditions and devastating loss, Marguerite transforms from a sheltered aristocrat into a strong, independent woman. The novel explores survival, love, resilience, and freedom.
A futuristic crime thriller featuring Lieutenant Eve Dallas. When a woman is found murdered after attending a glamorous charity event, Eve investigates a complex case involving stolen antiques, black-market deals, and dangerous secrets hidden among New York’s wealthy elite. As the investigation unfolds, Eve works to uncover the killer before more people become targets. The book combines mystery, suspense, and the personal relationships central to the In Death series.
A legal thriller centered on a murder case filled with secrets, deception, and conflicting stories. After a shocking death, investigators and attorneys dig into the lives of those connected to the victim, uncovering hidden motives and unreliable alibis. As the case unfolds, the story explores how far people will go to protect themselves—and whether the truth can survive inside a carefully constructed lie.
Jax Sutherland, the owner of a charming Victorian bookstore called the Painted Lady Bookstore. Jax likes being in control, but her life starts unraveling when an accident mixes up the anonymous diaries customers store at the shop. As secrets from the diaries come to light, relationships, romances, and small-town drama create chaos in the community. Along the way, Jax must learn to let go of control and open herself up to love and change.
Investigator Lucas Davenport hunts a ruthless killer seeking revenge years after a deadly confrontation. When a series of murders points to someone with a personal grudge and a carefully planned agenda, Davenport must untangle old secrets and track a dangerous criminal before more people are killed. The novel blends suspense, fast-paced investigation, and psychological cat-and-mouse tension typical of the Prey series.
A heartfelt tribute to teachers and the impact they have on students’ lives. Blending personal stories, humor, and appreciation, James Patterson celebrates the dedication, patience, and inspiration teachers provide every day. The book highlights memorable educators, shares experiences from classrooms, and encourages readers to recognize and thank the teachers who help shape futures.
Library Info 16623 U.S. 280, Chelsea, AL
Mon-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
The library will be closed Saturday, July 4. No programming the week of July 4.
Summer Reading 2026: Unearth a Story. Register at the library or on the library’s website. The program runs through July 8. All ages can participate and earn prizes.
Mondays- July 6, 13, 20 and 27: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 12-14). 4-6 p.m.
Wednesdays- July 8, 15, 22 and 29: Tot Time. 10:30 a.m.
Thursdays- July 9, 16, 23 and 30: Musical Munchkins at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
Thursdays- July 9, 16, 23 and 30: Dungeons & Dragons (ages 15 and up). 4:45-6:45 p.m.
Fridays- July 10, 17, 24 and 31: Bring your own craft. 1 p.m.
July 7: “The Spongebob Movie.” 1 p.m. Chelsea Community Center.
July 8: End of Summer Reading Party. 2 p.m.
July 9: Book Club. 11:30 a.m.
July 10 and 24: Dementia Caregiver support group. 10 a.m. Licensed therapist and dementia care practitioner, Tracy Lambrecht will lead this support group to provide connections, education and community resources.
July 11: Friends of the Chelsea Library Book Sale. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Chelsea Community Center.
July 11: Lego Saturday. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
July 11: Super Saturday Story Time. 10-10:30 a.m. on the patio. For children in grades K-4.
July 14 and 28: Dementia Caregiver support group. 5:30 p.m. Licensed therapist and dementia care practitioner, Tracy Lambrecht will lead this support group to provide connections, education and community resources.
July 18: Pokemon Trading Club. 10 a.m.
July 18: Chess Club. 11:30 a.m.
July 20: Beyond Books. 6 p.m. Books and bites club will meet to discuss Sarah Pekkan’s “The Locked Ward.” Register on the library’s website or at the circulation desk.
July 21: Read. Play. Create. 5-6 p.m. Trivia for ages 12-18. Registration required.
July 25: K.Z.T. Steam Day. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
March, 1783. The Revolutionary War was not over. The throng of Continental soldiers encamped at headquarters was pissed.
And with good reason. The soldiers were bloody. Battered. They were sick. And worst of all, they were unpaid. Namely, because Congress would not get off its fat aspirations and pay its own army.
Just who did Congress think it was? These wealthy jerks, sitting in ornate boardrooms, wearing tight pants and powder wigs, making up new laws, refusing to fund their own army.
The soldiers were angry. Angry at the negligence. Angry at bloated government fatcats whose daughters mail-ordered clothes from Italy, whose sons studied Latin and ceramic pottery.
This was NOT the America the soldiers signed up for. This was B.S.
General Washington’s officers began whispering behind his back. They wrote seething letters in secret.
The soldiers had been circulating petitions suggesting large-scale mutiny. An anonymous letter was read aloud in the bunkhouses, barracks, and tents:
“Any further experiments on our patience may have fatal effects… If this then be [our] treatment, while the swords [we] wear are necessary for the defence of America, what have [we] to expect from peace…?”
So the men’s minds were made up. They decided on mutiny. Screw this. They were going to abandon the war, let the American people fend for themselves against the British. Then, the army would march on Congress and demand paychecks, with muskets drawn.
Washington caught wind that his officers had planned a secret meeting. This was serious. These were HIS officers. HIS trusted guys. And they were plotting against him.
A meeting was called in New Windsor Cantonment, New York. March 15. A nation’s entire future hung in the balance. This is what happened at that meeting:
It was a large hall, entirely made of wood. Voices reverberated off the walls. Lots of grumbling. Fraternal laughter. Meeting was about to begin.
Everyone in the crowd had two things in common. They were angry at Congress. And angry with George Washington.
The gavel banged.
“Meeting will commence,” someone shouted.
The crowd fell to a hush.
That’s when everyone heard a horse come charging up outside. Someone looked out the window.
“It’s General Washington!” someone shouted.
Washington climbed off his horse. In moments he was hobbling down the aisle, winded and out of breath. His hair was gray. His skin, wrinkled.
Wait a second. THIS was Washington? This looked like an old man.
The great General took the podium and read a nine-page letter in an aged voice. He pleaded with his men, begging for patience. But it was doing no good. His men were snickering bitterly. Arms crossed. Shaking heads. If anyone would’ve had rotten tomatoes, they would’ve hurled them at the General.
General Washington’s mood was falling. It was over for the Great American Experiment. He folded up his speech and prepared to read another speech to his crowd.
“What a JOKE!” the men were muttering. “Get this guy off the stage.”
And that’s when it happened.
As the General was unfolding leaflets, he patted his chest pockets. Then he removed a pair of wire spectacles.
The room collectively gasped. It was the first time anyone had seen the great and fearless General wearing eyeglasses.
They had always viewed this man as a giant. A myth. A man’s man. But this was no legend in their midst. This was a man humbled.
Washington was visibly embarrassed.
He apologized to his crowd. “Gentlemen, you will permit me to put on my spectacles, for, I have grown not only gray, but almost blind in the service of my country.”
Nobody spoke for whole minutes. Many soldiers began to weep. And, well, anyway we won the war.
Happy 250th anniversary America.
Home Improvement with Matt Weber
Matt Weber is editor of Home Improvement & Repairs magazine based in Birmingham, Alabama.
Find more at www.homeimprovementandrepairs.com.
Foundation problems are common in Alabama, so homeowners should keep an eye on warning signs. Foundation problems usually develop gradually, often showing up first as small cracks in a wall, but problems that grow or persist should be handled before structural damage occurs.
At the root of most foundation problems is movement in the soil beneath or around the home, often caused by poor drainage, moisture changes, or expansive soils that swell and shrink. As the soil shifts, the foundation moves too, placing stress on the structure.
Hairline Cracks
Small cracks in the walls may be caused by the house settling into its foundation. Slight shifts can lead to minor cracks in the drywall or plaster, which can be annoying but are typically cosmetic and not structural.
Such cracks can also occur because seasonal temperature variations cause building materials to expand and contract. Changes in humidity levels can cause drywall or plaster to contract or expand.
Monitor hairline cracks weekly for growth, but these can usually be repaired with vinyl spackling or drywall compound.
Wall cracks might travel straight up and down, following the line where the wall meets the floor, and vary in size. Caused by settling and temperature changes, these cracks generally pose minimal concern if there are no significant length or width increases. Vertical cracks need to be assessed once they are greater than 5 millimeters wide. If you detect dampness or widening cracks, then schedule a professional inspection.
If you see cracks running horizontal along the wall plane, this might be a sign of serious foundation issues and potential structural wall cracks. These cracks are often the result of structural movement as expansive soils build up against the foundation wall. Without proper care, the cracks will progressively widen, potentially causing complete wall failure.
Call a professional if horizontal cracks develop, regardless of width. Horizontal cracks signify movement or pressure on the foundation walls, so early detection is critical.
Some cracks might run diagonally on the wall between the floor and ceiling, slanted at a 45-degree angle. These cracks require immediate attention from a professional regardless of size. Diagonal cracks may indicate shifting or settling in the foundation. Stair-step cracks in brick, in particular, are often a sign of differential movement.
Early intervention is key, since diagonal cracks are a sign of foundation settlement, often the result of the earth pushing on a concrete basement wall.
Inspect your foundation a few times each year for wall cracks. The size and location of the cracks are key indicators of problems. Large cracks wider than 5 millimeters are a cause for concern, especially if they are diagonal, horizontal, or appear above a door frame.
Multiple cracks clustered together in a specific area also call for attention. A cluster of cracks could indicate a widespread problem that requires a professional evaluation to determine the cause and best course of action.
By addressing cracks promptly, you can help prevent foundation damage from worsening and safeguard the structural integrity of your home. When in doubt, consult a foundation specialist or structural engineer for a professional assessment.
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.
By Loyd McIntosh
There is a great knock-knock joke about opportunities in life that goes a little something like this. “Knock, knock. Who’s there? Opportunity. Don’t be silly. Opportunity doesn’t knock twice!”
However, in the case of Jennifer VanOekel, nothing can be further from the truth. VanOekel was promoted to head coach of the Chelsea High School Track following the resignation of Trey Lee, who accepted the head position at Hoover High School in May. The thing is, though, this isn’t Van Oekel’s first rodeo as a head coach, and this wasn’t the first time she was offered the head coach position at Chelsea either.
Van Oekel was initially offered the head coach position in 2021; however, with young children at home and having only recently jumped back into the workforce full-time, she declined the offer, choosing to stay on as an assistant. Together with Lee and assistant coach Fuquay, Van Oekel helped lead the Hornets track and field program to its most
successful stretch in history, including girls 6A indoor and outdoor state titles in 2025.
With Lee moving on and the head coach position open once again, VanOekel was offered the position once again. This time, she knew the time was right to become a head coach—again—and is looking forward to building on Chelsea’s recent success.
“I believe in signs, and sometimes you can turn away a sign or maybe not walk through a door that’s been open for you,” VanOekel said. “But when it comes around twice, I think that’s a sign that you’re supposed to say yes.
“Coach Lee always talked about ‘leave your legacy.’ When he was leaving, I told him ‘he’s left his legacy,” she added, “and now it’s our job to continue it.’”
Jennifer VanOekel was born and raised in North Dakota and began
running in the Hershey’s Track and Field program when she was only six-years-old. As she grew, she excelled in the sport, especially in the jumping sports; more specifically, the pole vault.
She continued her athletic career at Concordia College, a small NCAA Division III school in Moorhead, Minnesota. She started her freshman year in 1998, the first year the pole vault was sanctioned as an official NCAA sport. She went on to have a banner college career, setting a school record in the pole vault.
After graduation, she coached high school track and field in Minnesota for 14 years, seven years as an assistant focusing on jumps and the pole vault, and seven more years as a successful head coach. However, her time as a coach in the North Star State eventually came to an end as her husband’s career took the VanOekels all over the United States.
A professional soccer player, Matt VanOekel played goalkeeper for several soccer teams throughout the country, including the Minnesota Thunder and Minnesota United FC, FC Edmonton, Real Salt Lake, OKC Energy FC, and eventually to Birmingham in 2019 as a charter team member with Birmingham Legion FC, where he is now the head goalkeeper coach.
Jennifer and her husband met when she volunteered to be the cheerleading coach at her high school in addition to her track and field coaching duties, despite having no experience. Determined to learn as much as she could, she tried out for the Minnesota Thunder cheer team, making the squad.
“I was a pro cheerleader because our high school needed a cheerleading coach and I didn’t know much about it, and a way to get better at it was to try out for a pro cheer team,” she said with a laugh. “And then I met my husband that way.”
After taking some time off to stay home with the couple’s young children, Jennifer returned to work part-time as a substitute teacher at schools throughout the area, including Chelsea High School in 2019. In early 2020, Chelsea High School offered her a long-term substitute
role to fill in for a teacher out on extended leave.
After the COVID-19 shutdown, VanOekel accepted a permanent position, teaching AP Calculus and statistics and taking on assistant coaching duties under Coach Lee. During her tenure, she has helped place Chelsea’s track and field among some of the state’s elite 6A schools like Homewood, Northridge, and Mountain Brook, without many of the advantages of those other schools.
“When I started here, we didn’t have a track, and we definitely didn’t have a long jump pit or a pole vault pit,” VanOekel said, adding a humorous anecdote about working with the school’s first female pole vaulter, Elena McCullough.
“She was a little ninth grader and came in as a gymnast and said she wanted to try it. I said, well, we’ll just do it at the meets since we don’t have a mat, and we’ll just try it like practice,” said VanOekel.
The Hornets have also been one of the smaller 6A teams, often competing with far fewer athletes than other schools. Her vision for the program includes increasing participation and working to develop a pipeline of talent through stronger youth track programs at the elementary and middle school levels.
Now, as she prepares to start her second head coaching act, VanOekel is focused on strengthening the program’s foundation while continuing to pour into the athletes. While championships, medals, and trophies are nice, she is more interested in the development of each athlete.
“Both Coach Lee and I had that philosophy of ‘champion yourself every day.’ Let’s find a way to be better than you were the day before,” she said. “Sometimes that shows up in a time or distance, sometimes it shows up in a technique that we’ve been training, or sometimes maybe it’s just overcoming an obstacle.”
“We’re building a program where every athlete,” she added, “whether it’s their first time stepping on the track or on a runway or in a throwing circle, gets to experience success and is rewarded for those improvements.”
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
As a therapist, there is a question I get asked regularly: “Do you diagnose?”
The honest answer for me is yes…because insurance requires it. A diagnosis should be nothing more than a helpful jumping off place. It should not become a moniker in which we filter our lives through. It should not be reinforcement for behaviors that are negatively impacting your life. It should not prevent you from developing new skill sets and resiliency. And I see that taking place far too often now.
Do not get me wrong. Anxiety is real. Depression is real. ADHD is real. Trauma is real. Mental health diagnoses serve important purposes. They help us communicate with one another professionally. They guide treatment decisions. They allow insurance companies to reimburse for care. In many cases, receiving a diagnosis can provide tremendous relief for people who have struggled for years to understand their experiences.
The problem is not the existence of diagnoses. The problem is what we have started doing with them. Somewhere along the way, we stopped treating diagnoses as tools and started treating them as identities. Instead of recognizing that a diagnosis describes a set of symptoms, we begin to believe it explains the entirety of who we are.
Human beings are far more complex than that.
A diagnosis can tell me what symptoms you experience. It cannot tell me what makes you laugh, what breaks your heart, what you value, what you fear, what gives your life meaning, or how fiercely you love the people around you.
It cannot tell me who you are.
Yet, our culture has become increasingly obsessed with labels. Every personality trait, preference, struggle, habit, or quirk seems to require a category. We are constantly searching for explanations, definitions, and boxes into which we can place ourselves and others.
I believe part of this comes from a deeper reality: many of us feel disconnected. Disconnected from ourselves, our communities, our families. Disconnected from any larger sense of meaning or purpose. When people feel disconnected and out of control, labels can provide temporary certainty. They offer an explanation for what feels confusing in a world that often feels chaotic.
And to be fair, sometimes they do help. But a label is only helpful when it serves understanding. It becomes harmful when it limits growth.
I have watched people cling to diagnoses so tightly that they begin organizing their entire lives around them. Rather than asking, “How do I grow?” they begin asking, “How do I prove this label fits me?”
Understanding why something exists is important. But understanding is not the same thing as permission to continue in behaviors that hinder you. The goal of therapy has never been to hand someone a diagnosis and send them on their way. The goal is to help people reconnect and grow.
A diagnosis may help us understand where we are starting. It should never determine where we are capable of going. And a lot of these emotions that are also diagnoses are required for existence and growth. You are a human being who has experiences, struggles, strengths, wounds, gifts, relationships, and purpose.
We have taken things that once gave people personality and begun diagnosing them.
A child who is energetic becomes “ADHD” and a behavior problem. A person who feels deeply becomes “too emotional.” Someone who likes things a certain way is labeled “OCD.” Someone who needs time alone is called “avoidant.” Someone who has big reactions is seen as the problem instead of as a person communicating something.
But regulated does not mean calm, quiet, convenient, or evenkeeled. Regulated means present.
It means connected enough to yourself to notice what is happening inside of you. It means having the capacity to feel something without becoming completely consumed by it. It means being able to return to yourself, repair when needed, and stay in a relationship when things feel hard.
A regulated person will still cry and get angry. They will still need space. They will still have strong opinions, preferences, quirks, intensity, humor, sensitivity, and passion. That is not pathology. That is humanity.
Kindergarten students donned bunny ears for their music performances.
Miss Annie visited kindergarten classes to discuss animals that live in the sea.
CPES students enjoyed club days throughout the school year.
Members of the CHHS walked the halls of CPES for one final time before graduation.
Second graders dressed up as historical figures and provided facts about them.
CPES students had an amazing time exploring a variety of vehicles and meeting the professionals who operate them every day in a morning full of hands-on learning.
FOES bus drivers were recognized for Bus Driver Appreciation Day.
The FOES lunchroom staff was recognized for going above and beyond every day for the students.
Mrs. Carlyn Duncan has been named principal of Forest Oaks Elementary. Mrs. Duncan has over 23 years of experience as an educator in Shelby County Schools.
She began her career as a first-grade teacher in 2003 before transitioning into instructional coaching and district-level instructional support. Most recently, she has served for the past seven years as the assistant principal at Forest Oaks Elementary School.
FOES PTO wrapped up their popcorn and shaved ice days in May.
FOES 5th graders Eduardo Camargo Gachuz and Atticus Richie both received Honorable Mention awards for their illustrations of “Investing” and “Inflation” for the Alabama Council on Economic Education’s Color the Concepts Contest. There were over 1,100 entries, so this is a very big accomplishment.
Mrs. Maria Tarry was named the Shelby County Chamber Educator of the Year.
Mrs. Elliott, Mr. Haley and Ms. Christi officially retired at the end of the school year and were recognized for their many years of service.
Band students recognized
Congratulations to ChMS Beginning Band students who were selected to perform with Alabama Winds at Thompson High School. They had the opportunity to meet, rehearse, and perform with composer, Tyler S. Grant, on his original published composition, “Wild Blue.”
• Ezra Robison, French Horn
• Sadie Mann, Clarinet
• Pippa McCauley, Alto Saxophone
• Vera Moore, Oboe
• Angelica Liner, Flute
• Taylor Griffin, Flute
Assistant band director welcomed
Charlie Mercier has joined the to team at Chelsea Middle School to teach alongside Ms. Lyon. He has served as the band director at Jemison Middle School for the past five years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in instrumental music education from the University of Alabama and is set to graduate with a master’s degree in music education from Auburn University this August. He is also a National Board Certified Teacher, and has been a clinician for several honor bands around the state.
6th Grade - Odle; 7th Grade - Hill, 8th Grade - Maddox
Lollar named Educator of the Year
Summer Lollar was named Chelsea Middle School’s Shelby County Chamber Educator of the Year.
Hemmer receives award
7th Grade Social Studies teacher Grace Hemmer was selected as Shelby County Schools First Year Teacher of the Year.
recognition
Nurse Davis was recognized for School Nurse’s Day.
Jay Hillman, Sarah Brock Ramsey and Payton Sumners participated in this year’s Youth Leadership Shelby County program.
CHHS bus drivers were recognized for Bus Driver Appreciation Day.
The CHHS CNP staff was recognized on School Lunch Hero Day for going the extra mile for the students daily.
Congratulations to Ms. Baggett for being awarded the Owens-Young Technology Award. It included $1,000 to be used for classroom-related technology.
Congratulations to the following who were recognized as CHHS’ nominees for the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce’s Student & Educator of the Year Luncheon: Ms. Acton (teacher), Sarah Serrano (Distinguished Standout), and John Cox (Career Tech Standout).
Jennifer VanOekel was named the CHHS Track & Field Head Coach and Bria Bethea was named as the new Head Girls Basketball Coach.
On National School Nurse Day, Nurse Fields was recognized for being a light at CHHS.
CHHS received an A on the state report card for the 2024-2025 school year. The result was due to success in academic achievement, academic growth, graduation rate, college and career readiness, and limiting chronic absenteeism.
Shelby County Schools celebrated seniors who earned the prestigious Alabama Seal of Biliteracy. This honor recognizes high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages in addition to English. Recipients include: Litzy Arteaga-Villano, Aubrey Goodwin, Sarah Serrano (Recognized for two languages), Julie Jimenez, Luke Miller, Carson Smith, and Ashton Hudson
Congratulations to all of the nominees who were recognized at the 2025-2026 Shelby County Chamber’s Student & Educator of the Year Awards Luncheon. Derek Dupuis was named High School Educator of the Year, and student honorees include Jackson Toney (Calera High School), Natalie Bevilacqua (Shelby County High School), Joseph Alonzo Cardoza (Oak Mountain High School), and Andrew Blackmon (Oak Mountain High School).
Shelby County Schools and the Addiction Prevention Coalition worked in partnership to have all SCS nurses trained in the Youth Mental Health First Aid course. SCS school nurses are frontline responders for student wellness and are often one of the first trusted adults students turn to when they are struggling. This comprehensive training teaches staff how to recognize warning signs, respond effectively, and connect students struggling with mental health issues to the right supports to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
Edtech team and students from Chelsea Park Elementary and Chelsea High School traveled to Montgomery for the 2026 Computer Science Summit. During this event, students competed in the final round of the Governor’s App Challenge, a statewide computer programming competition for Alabama students. Chelsea High School students Chase Diamond and Landon Hartline received first place in the high school division. Their app, “College Education & Navigation” (C.E.A.N.), allows high school students to effortlessly explore college options, calculate GPA, and even find potential roommates. They were awarded by State Superintendent Dr. Mackey and had a chance to speak with him about their app. Chelsea Park Elementary students Kenia Bravo, Logan Dobson, and Hudson Harris were selected as state finalists for the Elementary division. Their app, Monkey Math, aims to help students develop math fact fluency in a fun and engaging way.
Shelby County Schools has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) Award from the NAMM Foundation for outstanding support and commitment to music education. Now in its 27th year, the awards program continues to spotlight and celebrate school districts and individual schools across the United States for their exemplary dedication to music education and ongoing efforts to ensure access to music learning as part of a well-rounded education. Shelby County Schools is one of nine school districts in Alabama to be honored with the award.
Makes: 2 cups
Who in the South doesn’t love some Ranch
Dressing to slather on everything?! This is a super easy and quick homemade version of the old classic. The fresh herbs add a punch of flavor that will make this recipe become a regular staple in your fridge.
Using fresh herbs is a must for this recipe. The combination of chives, dill, parsley and a little garlic is what gives Ranch that distinctive flavor.
If you don’t have any buttermilk on hand, just add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half. Let the mixture sit, undisturbed for about 15 minutes. Voila! Homemade buttermilk.
You can adjust the consistency of your dressing by adding more or less buttermilk. More buttermilk makes a thinner consistency, like for dressing, and using less buttermilk makes it thicker, like for a dip.
1 cup mayonnaise
½ to 2/3 cup buttermilk
½ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
In a small bowl, whisk together buttermilk and mayonnaise. Add remaining ingredients, stirring to combine. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Chelsea Events
July 1-31: Chelsea Splash Pad. Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays 1-5 p.m. Wednesday morning Sensory Play from 8-10 a.m. Melrose Park. July 4: Bring a mini flag and get a bomb pop. July 6: closed until 1 p.m. for cleaning. July 20: Splash Pad Anniversary- first 20 guests get in free, For pass prices, visit Cityofchelsea.com
July 4, 11, 18, 25: Chelsea Farmer’s Market. 9 a.m. to noon. City Hall Lawn. Experience fresh locally-grown produce, artisanal goods, and community atmosphere. Visit cityofchelsea.com
July 7: Chelsea City Council Meeting. Precouncil at 5 p.m. Meeting at 6 p.m. Chelsea City Hall, 11611 Chelsea Rd. cityofchelsea.com
July 10: Food Truck Friday. 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (Hours may vary slightly depending on vendor availability and demand.) City Hall Lawn. Wasabi Juan’s & Tasso’s Lemonade.
July 16: Nautical Cookie Decorating Class. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Cat-n-Bird Winery. Join Whisk Confections summer cookie decorating class featuring adorable nautical-themed cookies. Your ticket includes all decorating supplies, stepby-step instruction from Shannon Lescarini of Whisk Confections, a takehome cookie box, printed recipes and tips, plus one complimentary beverage from Cat-n-Bird Winery. No experience needed. For ages 10 and up. Tickets for purchase on the Facebook event page.
June 17: Food Truck Friday. 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (Hours may vary slightly depending on vendor availability and demand.) City Hall Lawn. Dixie Dogs N Coneys.
July 21: Chelsea Precouncil Meeting. Precouncil at 5 p.m. Chelsea City Hall, 11611 Chelsea Rd. Visit cityofchelsea.com
Chelsea Community Center
Mondays: Beginner Pickleball 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mondays: Intermediate Pickleball 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Monday, Wednesday Friday: Advanced and High Trial Pickleball Sessions 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Wednesday and Friday: Beginner and Intermediate Pickleball 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Thursday: Pickleball Open Play 6-9 p.m.
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). Taught by Keri McIntire, a certified instructor specializing in senior fitness. Free.
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.
Thursdays: Mahjong & Mingle. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This group is all about fun and learning. Bring your own tiles if you have them, your player card, plus a drink and a snack to enjoy while you play. Experienced players will be there to help guide you and teach beginners along the way.
Thursdays: 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.
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.
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.
Mondays: 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. Free.
Hardcore Jeet Kune Do Self Defense Class: Monday (adult ages 17+) 6:308:30 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. Contact 205-706-4728.
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.
Wednesdays: Textile Club. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sewing, crocheting, embroidery and quilting. Bring your project and a sack lunch. Adults only.
Sundays: 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.
Tuesdays: Oyama Karate 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Area Events
July 1: America 250 Alabama: Star-Spangled Hoover. 9 a.m. Hoover Metropolitan Complex. This family-friendly event will feature a spectacular fireworks display set against the evening sky over the Hoover Met. For more information and updates, go to hooveralabama.gov.
July 3-4: Sweet Home 250. 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. American Village Montevallo. This arts and food festival honors America’s 250th anniversary and Alabama’s musical heritage. General admission is $20. 205-665-3535. sweethome250.com
July 4: Thunder on the Mountain. 9 p.m. Vulcan Park & Museum. Pyro Shows of Alabama will launch a 20-minute fireworks display featuring more than 2,500 shells and effects synchronized to patriotic music broadcast on several iHeartMedia Birmingham radio stations. Visit vulcan.com/event/thunder-2026
July 4: Birmingham Barons Baseball America’s 250th Celebration. 6:30 p.m. Regions Field. Birmingham Barons vs. Montgomery Biscuits. The first 1,000 Fans ages 13+ will receive a USA Shoodie presented by Encompass Health. Post game firework show to celebrate America’s 250th. mlb.com/milb/birmingham
July 23-25: MOTION Conference. Legacy Arena at the BJCC. This event brings together students and young adults for a three-day faith experience focused on worship, inspiration, and spiritual growth. For a schedule and registration costs, go to motiongen.com.
July 25: Boom Ball. 5-9 p.m. Regions Field. Boom Ball is baseball reimagined — a wild, fast, and family-friendly baseball experience that’s a take on America’s favorite pastime. Visit boomballtour.com/city/birmingham.
July 29: Dude Perfect: Squad Games Tour Featuring The Harlem Globetrotters. 6 p.m. The BJCC. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with the event beginning at 7:00 p.m. Visit dudeperfect.com/tour
