Second Chance Deliverance Ministries marks 20 years of service as the city also honors space legend Edward Buckbee for a lifetime of achievement
SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
The Huntsville City Council meeting held Thursday night, October 23, 2025, was one filled with pride, gratitude, and celebration as city leaders recognized two powerful forces shaping the community — Second Chance Deliverance & Restoration Ministries, Inc., and Edward Buckbee, a legend in space education and exploration.
Second Chance Ministries Marks 20 Years of Service
Councilwoman Michelle Watkins, District 1, presented a special City resolution honoring Leo Robinson and his wife, Mrs. Donna Robinson, founders of Second Chance Deliverance & Restoration Ministries, for 20 years of tireless community service and faith-based outreach.
“This is Donna and Leo Robinson — they are community changers,” Watkins said. “They work day in and day out in our community, from helping with our schools, to running a food pantry at McDonnell Elementary, collecting coats for those in need, and hosting an annual Music Gala that celebrates local musicians and provides scholarships. We appreciate them dearly for all they do.”
The Robinsons, known for their dedication to service, have built a legacy rooted in compassion and action.
“First, I say to the Mayor and to the Council, I’m grateful for this opportunity,” Leo Robinson said as he accepted the resolution. “It’s been 20 good years, and we’re not going to stop.”
His wife, Mrs. Donna Robinson, smiled and added simply, “Ditto,” drawing laughter and warm applause from council members and attendees. Honoring Edward Buckbee: A Space Legacy that Shaped Huntsville
Next, the Council unanimously passed a resolution honoring Edward Buckbee for his “exemplary leadership in space exploration and museum education.” Buckbee, who celebrated his 89th birthday on September 15, 2025, has been a pillar of Huntsville’s identity as “Rocket City” since the early days of the U.S. space program.
Council Member David Little, a three-time Space Camp alumnus, delivered the tribute, noting Buckbee’s remarkable career:
“From his start with NASA in 1959, through his service as the first director of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, and as founder of Space Camp and Aviation Challenge — Mr. Buckbee’s vision shaped not only Huntsville’s future but the dreams of generations of young explorers.”
The resolution recounted Buckbee’s work alongside astronauts from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs, his founding of Space Camp in 1982, and his continued community involvement in retirement.
Little also presented Buckbee with a special commendation from the Alabama House of Representatives, delivered by Representative Rex Reynolds, recognizing his impact at both the local and state level.
Buckbee’s daughter, Jackie Buckbee, accepted the honor on behalf of her father, calling the recognition “one of the most meaningful yet.”
“Our family and our caregivers are truly honored by this recognition,” she said. “We are so proud of our dad and his legacy in Huntsville and beyond.”
Mayor and Council Reflect on Legacy and Service
Mayor Tommy Battle closed the segment by recalling his own connection to Buckbee, noting their time together in Leadership Alabama over two decades ago.
“It was wonderful getting to know Mr. Buckbee and his accomplishments at that time,” the Mayor said. “We continue to wish you many more birthdays.”
A Night of Huntsville Pride
From grassroots ministry to global space leadership, Huntsville’s October 23 City Council meeting captured the heart of a city that celebrates both service and innovation.
As Council Member Watkins put it:
“You’ve got to have community changers in the community to make a difference — and that’s what these honorees represent.”
