photo by Carolyn Nored Miller
Celebrate the holidays with the
San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts!
The San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts has an exciting slate of exhibitions, activities, and programming scheduled for December! Come celebrate the holiday season with us!
From the Realms of Glory, now through January 19, Galleries II, III. This exhibition, from SAMFA’s permanent collection, features a stunning selection of sacred art from Spanish Colonial and 19th century Latin America. View it against a backdrop of ornamental baroque music. Created between 1600 and 1900, these works were intended to draw man to adoration, prayer, and the love of God. This exhibition is generously supported by Suzanne Sugg, Stephanie and Charlotte March in loving memory of their mother Laura Derby, and Western Audio Works.
The Plein Air Landscape: Selections from the Permanent Collection, now through February 23, Gallery I. The cool, crisp air of December is a reminder to enjoy this exhibition, paintings created in the open air, or en plein air, in French. It traces plein air painting from its roots in Impressionism to today’s worldwide plein air movement, especially in Texas and here in San Angelo.
12 Days of Christmas Auction begins December 1, samfa.org. Go to samfa.org and bid on gift items to delight and surprise! Among the treasures: a sapphire and diamond ring, African safari, an artisan desk, garden package, club membership, meal gift card package, a Turtlebox®, and a beautiful silk scarf, to name just a few.
FREE Family Day, December 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., All Galleries, Grand Hall, Education Studio, and Concho Clay Studio. View the exhibitions, make a Christmas angel or Madonna-child paper doll, decorate Christmas gift tags, enjoy story time with the Junior League of San Angelo and a free book giveaway, take photos with Santa, decorate a glass votive, take a selfie at The Holiday photo booth or at the Christmas tree forest, watch a Christmas cocktail demonstration by Urban Salt Kitchen & Bar, and a tamale-making demonstration by Chris Riley. There’s an activity for every age! Free Family Days are sponsored by the Sterling-Turner Foundation, Carl B. and Florence E. King Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Mary Ellen Kent Bunyard Family Foundation, Texas Commission on the Arts, and H-E-B.
FREE Christmas Tuba Concert, December 21, 12 noon, Grand Hall. Come hear musicians from Angelo State University, local and area high schools, and the San Angelo Community Band. Enjoy the rich tones of tubas and baritones. Tuba Christmas originally started at Rockefeller Center, New York City.
Museum Gift Shop. Bring your Christmas gift list! You’ll find exhibition-related merchandise and one-of-a-kind creations by local artists from the San Angelo region. Also, discover items from the spectacular International Folk Art Market, donated by SAMFA patron Suzanne Sugg.
SAMFA is located at 1 Love Street. Telephone: 325-653-3333. Hours of operation: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday 1 to 4 p.m.; Closed Monday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Visit samfa.org and its socials for more news and information.
What’s Inside . .
Merry Christmas from San Angelo Family Magazine!!!
On our December cover is Adilynn Garrett, 15 years old. She is a Sophmore at Central High School.
Adilynn is the daughter of Monica Kerrigan and Adam Garrett. And granddaughter of Richard and Cynthia Ganey & Tom and Connie Garrett.
Adilynn participates in many scholastic and community service organizations such as Student council, Tri Phi, Central Tex-Anns drill team, Orchestra, and San Angelo Symphony Guild Ambassadors. She is a multi-title holder for the Our Diamond Miss Scholarship Pageant system over the 9 years reigning as Texas State Supreme Model and National Holiday Miss Teen Talent as well as Texas overall interview among many other titles.
Her favorite pass time is talking on the phone, watching Golden Girls, & playing with dog Gunner the Beagle and 2 cats. She plans to attend Arizona State University after High school to study Meteorology in hopes to one day report the weather on Good Morning America.
Please be safe and enjoy the holidays by attending or participating in opportunities throughout the magazine.
Holidays with Grandparents!
Grandparents can play an important role in a child's life. Grandparents help children establish roots, help them identify who they are. An "interview", whether done virtually or in person is a great way for kids to stay connected to their grandparents and record valuable family history!
Grandchild can "interview" a grandparent about his/her life. Be sure and record the answers. Here are some sample questions:
1. Where were you born? What year?
2. What are the names and birthdates of your brothers and sisters?
3. Did you have a pet when you were growing up?
4. What was your proudest moment as a child?
5. Who was more strict, your mom or dad?
6. What were your favorite games and activities?
7. Did you receive an allowance? How much? Did you save your money or spend it?
8. What did your house look like? Is it still the same?
9. Did you have your own room?
10. What was your most valuable lesson?
11. Did your family have big reunions?
12. Did you like school? What kinds of grades did you get?
13. What do you know about your family surname?
14. When you were a teenager, what was your curfew?
15. What is your earliest childhood memory?
16. How old were you when you got married?
17. What was your first job?
18. Tell me about my mom/dad when he/she was growing up.
19. What makes you proud of my mom/dad?
20. Have you accomplished what you wanted in life?
21. What is the one thing you most want people to remember about you?
22. What advice would you like to give me?
23. What was your favorite toy and why?
24. What was your favorite thing to do for fun?
25. Did you have family chores? What were they? Which was your least favorite?
26. What was school like for you as a child? What were your best and worst subjects? Where did you attend grade school? High school? College?
27. Do you remember any fads from your youth? Popular hairstyles?
28. Describe a typical family dinner. Did you all eat together as a family? Who did the cooking?
29. What was it like when you proposed (or were proposed to)? Where and when did it happen? How did you feel?
30. What was your profession and how did you choose it? If you could have had any other profession what would it have been? Why wasn't it your first choice?
Lessons & Carols Service at Emmanuel Episcopal Church
A special holiday service, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, will be offered at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, located in downtown San Angelo at 3 S. Randolph Street, on December 15 at 5:00 p.m. Lessons and Carols began in the 1880’s, but rose to prominence in 1918, when the Dean of King’s College, Cambridge offered it as an occasion to give thanks to God for the end of the Great War, known to us as World War I. It was a two-fold gift to the city; first, to mourn the loss of those from Cambridge, including nearly one quarter of the student body of King’s College, who had perished in the war, and also for those whose faith had been tested by the horrors of war to reconnect with the loving purposes of God through the beauty of music and the testimony of Scripture in a service that offers color, warmth, and delight.
Lessons and Carols is a fitting description of the service. There are nine Scripture Lessons which tell of God’s loving purposes from the time of the Fall through the words of prophets who prepared the way, to the long-expected arrival of Christ our Savior in the manger at Bethlehem. The Lessons are interspersed with carols that prepare our hearts for the holy season of Christmas, which begins on Christmas Day and goes on for twelve days until Epiphany marks the visit of the Magi.
Emmanuel Church is a fitting setting for such a traditional English service. The Episcopal Church cherishes its heritage, history, and continuing communion with the Church of England, and Emmanuel reflects the setting of an English parish church. The present building was constructed in 1929 in a Gothic Revival style designed by architect John G. Becker, who also designed the San Angelo Municipal Pool. Mr. Becker surely had guidance from the Rev. Arthur Whittle, a former British military chaplain who was the minister of Emmanuel at the time. Construction was undertaken with care by one of Emmanuel’s own members, Mr. H.F. Templeton, and the first services were held in the present structure on Christmas Eve of 1929. This present structure replaces the original chapel that dated back to the 1880’s and is still in use as the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church on Montecito Drive.
While Emmanuel cherishes its English heritage, it also appreciates its historical connection with San Angelo, going back to the chaplaincy of Fort Concho. A visible symbol of San Angelo history, the church building is enclosed by limestone blocks that once enclosed the old Tom Green County Courthouse, and the church bell that now rings in praise to God was once housed in the old courthouse. We extend an invitation to all to come to hear God’s Word, sing God’s praises, and pray God’s presence to be renewed in every heart this Christmas Season.
As we near the end of the year and reflect on the profound impact our New Horizons families have had on children coming from difficult circumstances, one story stands out and brings a smile to our staff's faces. This past fall, we had the privilege of licensing a home that was willing to care for teenagers—a rare opportunity in our field. As the licensing process came to a close, we introduced the family to an older child from the Audrey Grace House. From the moment they met, the family felt an immediate connection, believing it was meant to be. They welcomed the child with open arms and hearts, treating him as one of their own because, to them, there is no difference.
At the start of the school year, the child experienced many "firsts" in his life: a new school, team sports, high school events, and so much more. But perhaps the most impactful first was receiving his very first house key. When he received the key, he sent a photo of it to the staff at the Audrey Grace House, who had been his family during his time there. This key symbolized something he had never known before—a place where he truly felt at home. It was a tangible reminder that this new family would not give up on him, and that he had a safe, secure place to call his own.
As we approach the holiday season, let’s remember that one simple gesture, one act of love and kindness, can go a long way. It can change lives and create the kind of lasting impact that a key to a home symbolizes: hope, belonging, and the promise of a brighter future.
Become a Foster Parent!!!
Talking to elderly parents about their future requires a delicate balance. As adult children, it's crucial to approach the subject with sensitivity, acknowledging the emotional weight these discussions carry for both parties. Be kind and remember...someday this will be you. Take that first step together as a family during the holidays.
How to Talk to Elderly Parents
Choose the Right Time and Place: Find a comfortable and private setting for the conversation. Ensure there's enough time to talk without feeling rushed.
Be Respectful and Empathetic: Remember, this is a dialogue, not a monologue. Listen to your parents' wishes and concerns with empathy.
Use Open-Ended Questions: Encourage them to express their thoughts and preferences. Ask questions like, “How do you feel about...?” or “What are your thoughts on...?”
Focus on Their Well-being: Emphasize that the conversation is about ensuring their comfort, safety, and happiness in the years to come.
Be Patient and Receptive: These discussions might take time and several conversations. Be patient and open to ongoing dialogues.
How to
Talk to Aging Parents About Specific Topics
Health and Medical Care: Discuss their current health status and any medical concerns. Talk about options for healthcare, including long-term care and advance directives.
Financial Planning: Gently broach the subject of financial planning, including wills, estate planning, and how they envision the management of their finances.
Living Arrangements: Discuss their preferences for future living arrangements. Would they prefer aging in place, moving in with family, or transitioning to an assisted living facility?
As we approach the festive season with gatherings and celebrations, we must stay mindful of the increased risks on the road. During this time, there is often a rise in accidents related to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving while distracted, and driving while drowsy–all of which can endanger everyone on the road.
Alcohol continues to be a factor in accidents during holiday periods when social gatherings frequently include drinking alcohol. Consuming excessive quantities can impact our ability to make sound decisions and coordinate effectively. Initiatives such as "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" promote the importance of individuals taking accountability by designating a driver or organizing means of transportation for celebratory events. Preparing in advance to make good choices regarding driving can significantly contribute to accident prevention efforts.
Driving while impaired by drugs presents a danger that is frequently overlooked; this includes both prescription medications and those available over the counter. Despite believing that legal substances do not influence driving abilities, research indicates that even small doses can diminish focus and reaction speed. It's essential to stay aware of how drugs or alcohol can impact your ability to drive safely when traveling during the holidays.
Driving while distracted has become a safety concern mainly because of the increased use of mobile phones on the roadways. According to the Centers for Disease Control, reports show that nine individuals lose their lives daily in America due to collisions caused by drivers who are distracted. Campaign initiatives such as "It Can Wait" remind us to keep our phones out of reach while driving and concentrate on the road ahead – especially vital during the bustling holiday season when traffic is dense and distractions are more prevalent.
Drowsy driving is a threat often underestimated by people during this time of year when late nights and long journeys are occurrences leading to increased fatigue levels. Research indicates that being awake for 18 hours can adversely affect reaction times, to a degree, to alcohol or drug impairment. Many drivers don't fully grasp the gravity of this danger and mistakenly believe that feeling slightly tired is not an issue; however, the outcomes can be just as catastrophic. Taking breaks or even planning naps during extended road trips can help mitigate the dangers associated with drowsy driving.
During this holiday season, remember the importance of the "Four Ds": Drunk, Drugged, Distracted, and Drowsy Driving. Together, we can make this a safe and enjoyable time for everyone, allowing us to focus on what truly matters- cherished moments with loved ones.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or substance use, the Alcohol & Drug Awareness Center for the Concho Valley (ADACCV) is here to help. ADACCV provides compassionate support and treatment options for individuals facing challenges. They are committed to helping people find a path to recovery and a healthier life.
For more information about their services, you may contact ADACCV by calling 325.224.3481 or visiting their website at www.adaccv.org
To our readers...
I hope each of you have a Merry Christmas. We are so blessed to be a part of each others lives and fortunate to be able to publish this magazine for almost 30 years.
After 20 years we are announcing a price increase effective with our January 2025 issue. To help everyone adjust to this, we will lock in our existing rate to anyone committing to a six month contract beginning with the January issue. Please understand we have continued to work with all businesses whether you are large or small, for profit or non-profit. We literally have advertisers that have been with us from the very beginning and we are so grateful! If you have never advertised with us, please consider it now. We reach so many readers through our print copies which are distributed to approximately 300 locations including many waiting and reception areas where the magazine gets read and reread all month long. We also offer the entire mangazine online for anyone unable to pick up a copy or for those living in the Concho Valley and not in town often. We care about every one of you!!!
We will be making some exciting changes beginning with 2025 including the magazine being full color! The demand for color has continued to increase especially in the past year so we are making that transition and it will certainly improve the magazine. We will also begin offering a wonderful opportunity to our online readers who will have the ability to click on any website we reference throughout the magazine and it will take you directly to that page so you don’t have to retype it!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
Carolyn Nored Miller
&Christmas atSierra Vista for 2024
Monday, December 2 at 6:00 p.m. Advent by Candlelight
Tuesday, December 17 at 6:00 p.m. Pre-school Christmas Program
Sunday, December 15 at 5-7 p.m. Living Nativity Tuesday, December 24 at 5, 7, 9, and 11 p.m. Christmas Eve Services of Holy Communion
Take time to remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas. Read stories from the Bible. Attend regular or special services at a church of your choice. Remember the shut-ins in our community. Go caroling. Help with a living nativity scene. Pick up an older person and take them with you - anywhere. Remember those in need of the basics. Attend a candlelight service. Give a Bible as a gift. Thank your minister, priest or pastor for everything they do.
Remind your children of how much God loves them. Celebrate Christmas in church as a family and make attending church a part of your routine in 2025.
Merry Christmas, San Angelo Family
*Childcare is available.
Home Away From Home
An event for young men and women stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base that can’t be home with their families on Christmas Day.
For more than a decade, the San Angelo Community has held the Home Away from Home event for young men and women stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base that can’t be home with their families on Christmas Day. This is the 9th year that the San Angelo Elks will be hosting this event. Most of these young military members have just recently joined the military and are still adapting to a new way of life, and this will be their first time away from home for the Christmas holiday.
This year our grant funds for this event have been reduced; as a result, the Elks organization is seeking businesses that would like to help sponsor this event.
We know that there are citizens that would also like to help, so we are soliciting gift cards (minimum $25), or other new items that can be used as appropriate gender or neutral gifts for the service members that will be attending this event. Cash is always acceptable, and will be used to purchase additional gifts for the event.
For those of you that bake, we are always looking for Deserts. They may be dropped off at 2121 S. Chadborne on December 24th from 5-7 pm or Christmas morning prior to 11am.
This event is a wonderful opportunity for the San Angelo Community to show their appreciation for the men and women serving at Goodfellow AFB. Let’s show them that San Angelo appreciates them.
If you would like to be part of this celebration and be a sponsor please call 325227-6920.
Christmas Traditions
Whether you already have family Christmas traditions or you are wanting to start new ones with your family, here are some ideas of what you can do with your family during the Christmas Holidays. by Kyla Bassett
Make a Christmas Key for Santa: If you don't have a chimney, make a special Christmas Key to use and leave out for Santa. And don’t forget the milk/cookies and maybe candy corn for the reindeer.
Spend one night camped out around the tree: Read stories, play games, string popcorn and cranberries, sleep in sleeping bags- truly a night to remember.
Christmas Caroling makes people smile and gets everyone in the mood for Christmas. Get some friends and family together and go caroling.
Hang your Stockings for the family members. It gives you and the kids something to look forward to for Christmas morning before opening presents.
Blessings Box or Bag: Plan to decorate a box or bag and have each family member place inside written notes of things for which they are grateful. Read them aloud during the holidays and count your blessings.
Christmas Family Lunch. On Christmas day, get the whole family together and make lunch for everyone. Let everyone bring their own recipe so you can try new things.
Read to the Kids Gather the whole family together around the fire or in the living room and read from Bible, or “Twas the Night Before Christmas”. It is a great way to slow things down for the kids (and for you!)
Decorate the Tree as a Family. I know from experience that I want my tree to look perfect and flawless, but let the kids help decorate the tree even though it won’t be exactly how you want it. I loved helping Momma decorate the tree as a child. I felt like I got to be a part of the Christmas Holidays.
Drive Around and Look at Christmas Lights. You get to see so many different kinds of lights and decorations. Some people go all out with reindeer and snowmen that are glowing and some people do something very traditional with white lights. It gets the family togeth-
er to spend a little more time together than usual. Remember to take grandparents or elderly friends.
Christmas Eve services at Church. Most churches have a Christmas Eve service and it will remind you that God is why we have Christmas. It will bring God into the holidays and make you appreciate the things that you have such as a family, friends, or pets. Then make attending church as a family part of your weekly activities.
Pick a Movie to Watch on Christmas Eve. There are plenty of movies to choose from. Nicole (my sister) always makes me watch “Home Alone”. There is anything from Chevy Chase’s “Christmas Vacation”, “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer”, “Scrooge”, “The Night Before Christmas”, “Miracle on 34th Street”, “Elf”, and many more.
Attend the Nutcracker as a Family. Beginning when I was three, I loved getting dressed up and attending the ballet. This year it is December 13th, 14th and 15th.
Play Christmas Music
Trans Siberian Orchestra while you are cleaning or cooking. There are many Christmas songs to choose from.
Pets need presents too
Get your pets a Christmas present that they can open Christmas Day too.
Take a Family Christmas Picture. Some families don’t get together throughout the year, but thankfully many gather for the holidays and the opportunity to take a family picture doesn’t need to be passed up.
Help Others. Share your blessings as a family by donating your time or gifts to others.
Give each family member $20 and shop for gifts to give someone that may be less fortunate.
Pick out a Christmas Tree as a Family. Might not be as easy as you think, but it sure is a lot of fun. Get bundled up and make it a joint decision!
Whatever your traditions are they will be memories that will last a lifetime. And ones you will be able to pass on to your children during that very special time called Christmas! And be sure to include the senior members of your family or community!
MEETINGS AROUND SAN ANGELO
Email meeting information to family@wcc.net. Please include contact information. SAFM reserves the right to determine if the meeting will be included. PLEASE verify any meeting dates and times as changes could be made after our print date. Meetings help us connect!! Or maybe you want to learn more about something that is effecting you. Or you want to become more involved. Or you want to learn a new hobby. San Angelo and the Concho Valley have so much to offer and this list is a start! Please help keep this listing updated by emailing us at family@wcc.net
Adult Diabetes Support Group -2nd Thurs. 6:30pm. Trinity Lutheran Fellowship hall. Leslie Hines lesliehines@shannonhealth.org 323-657-8249
Aglow International, San Angelo Lighthouse - every 1st Thurs, 6:30pm, Ministerial Alliance, 1100 Martin Luther King Dr., pot luck supper, all are welcome. FMI 325-653-9975 Alcoholics Anonymous, 3711 Chadbourne, San Angelo, TX 76901. A phone number for all AA groups in San Angelo is (325) 939-8939. New website-Meetings listing: SanAngeloAA.org Al-Anon - 1917 W. Avenue N, help for those whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking. FMI 800-259-1972 or info@sanangelo-al-anon.org or www.sanangelo-al-anon.org Alzheimer’s Assoc. Support Groups - 438 E. Houston Harte Expy or for full list & FMI 1-800-272-3900
American Legion Post 32 - 2nd Mon, 7p, 165 E 43rd Street. FMI Post Adjutant 325-653-1958..
American Legion Post 572 - 3rd Saturday, 9 am breakfast, 10 am meeting, Elks Lodge, 2121 S. Chadbourne, FMI 325-655-7648 (Carl Frentz) or amlegpost572@gmail.com Breastfeeding Community Gathering, Every Thurs.(excluding holiday), 11:00am, FREE, Shannon Women’s & Children’s Hospital Family Room, FMI: Amanda John 325-481-6326
Brush N Brag Decorative Painters 3rd Sat., 9am, St. Marks Presbyterian Church, 2506 Johnson St (Fellowship Hall): FMI call Sherrill Dooley 325 340-0762 sherrill222@yahoo.com Civil Air Patrol – every Thur, 5575 Stewart Lane, 6:20p-8:30pm, age 12 & up with interest in aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. sanangelocap.org
Compassionate Friends Support Group - Thursdays, 6:30 pm, Harmony room at First United Methodist Church (corner of Twohig and Chadbourne). Park on the second floor of parking garage of Cactus Hotel. Come through double glass doors. Contact Peggy Mathias Peggym@wtcg.us
Concho Valley Archeological Society, Non Profit Organization, Meetings 4th Thursday each month except July & December, 7:00 pm, Classroom at the Fort Concho Living History Stables, 236 Henry O. Flipper St. San Angelo, FMI Larry Riemenschneider 325-653-8216
Concho Valley CARES Coalition - 1st Wed., 12:00-1:00pm, SAISD Admin Building, 1621 University Ave, FMI Jennifer Flores, (325)224-3481 or Sarah Adame, (325)224-3481
Concho Valley Homeless Planning Coalition, every 2nd Wednesday from 10-11 a the Stephens Central Library. FMI 325-653-2411
Concho Valley Quilters Guild - Wed., 28 N Chadbourne, parking in the back, 9:30-2:30 pm. We hand-quilt for the public & members. Visitors/New members welcome! FMI 325-227-8713.
Concho Valley Ostomy Support Group - 1st Friday of every month, 3:00p.m., Baptist Retirement Community, 903 North Main Street, Room 119. FMI Joan Countess at 325-647-0658.
Concho Valley Photography Club- 2nd Saturday ea. month, 9:30 am, online Zoom meetings, open to all levels of photographers.
Concho Valley Republican Women 4th Thursday luncheon (January-October), 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Open to the public. For FMI and RSVP go to www.CVRW.org
Concho Valley Retired Teachers and Associates (CVRTA) Second Tuesday of the month (Sep-May), 9:30 am, at First Christian Church, 29 S Chadbourne, San Angelo.
Concho Valley Telephone Pioneer Club - 3rd Friday, Baptist Memorial at Main Street Cafe, noon, lunch 11:30. Different speaker each month. FMI Rhonda Nichols @ (325) 656-5301
Concho Valley Turning Point: (Faith-Based 12 Step) Tues 7pm, (Anger Mgmt.) Thurs 7pm, (Bible Study) Mon & Fri 7pm, (Transitional Housing for Men), meet @528 E. Highland Blvd. FMI: 325-658-1389, cvtpmail@gmail.com, www.cvtp.org. Hope, Believe & Achieve Here!
Concho Valley Women Veterans Association, 12th/each month, 5:30-7:00 pm, 119 North Chadbourne, Vietnam Veterans of America building. FMI commander@cvwomenveterans.com Disability Connections Center - monthly peer support groups, computer classes, cooking classes and arts & crafts classes, FMI call 325-227-6624 or 325-227-6625, dcciltx.org/ Disabled American Veterans' Auxiliary - 1st Thurs, 5:30 p.m., 1909 Pulliam, FMI: Maria Torres, 653-9059 Down Syndrome Support Group - 2nd Thur, even numbered months, 6:00pm, Region 15, Open to individuals with Down Syndrome/families/friends. Child Care and light meal provided. FMI Karyn at 227-3716 or Kathy at 325-651-9593
Embroidery Guild of America 3rd Tues 7PM, St.Paul Presbyterian Church, 11 Park St., FMI Leslie Wisdom rhoridgetx@yahoo.com Fleet Reserve Assn (FRA) Branch 295 - 3rd Sat, 11a, Elks Lodge, 2121 S. Chadbourne, FMI 325-942-8036 (Terry Cook, Branch Secretary) Greater San Angelo Crafts Guild 2nd Saturday in July, the 3rd Saturday in September, and the 1st Saturday in December, Stephens Library, FMI 726-999-0359, gsacraftsguild@gmail.com
Group Connections - free family gatherings and educational activities for parents and children. Monthly. FMI call (325)653-HOPE or visit https://cacgreaterwtx.org/ Hanging By A Thread Quilt Club - 2nd Mon, 7p, Suez Shrine Temple, FMI Louise Lathram, 325-703-4664. Le Coterie Society Club of San Angelo - 2nd Saturday each month, St Mark Presbyterian Church, 11am-12pm, FMI: Helen 325-262-8563 or Ronetta 325-653-7574
Myasthenia Gravis Support Group, Sat. Feb. 29, 10 - 11 am, Downtown Branch of Tom Green County Library, 2nd floor, FMI sanangelomg@gmail.com or call 806-252-2158 NAACP - 1st Sat, 2-3:30p, Ministerial Alliance Campus, 1100 MLK Blvd., FMI sanangelonaacp.org Overeaters Anonymous (HOW) - call hotline for locations and times. 325-482-8899
Parents Helping Parents - 3rd Tues. WTRC Admin. bldg, 12-1:00pm. Light meal provided, RSVP. FMI Barby Nobles, 223-6473.Open to all children, families, friends with special needs. Parkinson’s Support Group, 4th Monday, 5:30, Glen Meadows Baptist Church Rm 104, 6002 Knickerbocker RD., FMI 325 949-0970
San Angelo Amateur Radio Club (SAARC) - 2nd Thurs,, 7:00pm, the clubhouse, 5513 Stewart Lane, Mathis Field Airport. Open to any Amateur Radio operators FMI www.w5qx.org San Angelo Art Club-1st Mon, 7p, Kendall Gallery, 119 W 1st St, sanangeloartclub@gmail.com, facebook.com/sanangelo.artclub, or sanangeloartclub.org San Angelo Astronomy Assoc - Meetings are quarterly - contact for dates, 7p, ASU Planetarium. FMI 325-226-9172 or angeloastronomy.com/ San Angelo Chess Club Mondays, except holidays, 6–8 p.m., downtown library, 33 W. Beauregard. Club meets in library lobby. Equipment provided. Casual and USCF-rated games. 325853-2324. sanangelochess@gmail.com Free.
San Angelo Dream Center, Mons., 6-8pm, 1928 MLK Blvd. Christ Powered Recovery, 12 Step Faith based recovery group. Probation/Parole approved. FMI Jeff Matheny 325-234-9958.
San Angelo Genealogical & Historical Society (SAGHS) 1st Tue, Sept -May, 7p, Trinity Lutheran, Fellowship Hall, 3536 Lutheran Way. Free & open to the public. Refreshments provided. FMI (325) 268-0973, info@saghs-tx.org, or facebook.com/pg/SAGHS/events
San Angelo Republican Women - 1st Mon, San Angelo VFW, 125 S. Browning, 6:00 p.m. Free/open to the public. "Boots on the Ground!" FMI: sanangelorepublicanwomen@gmail.com
San Angelo TEA Party 2nd Tues., 507 N. Chadbourne St. annex building next to Transit/Bus Station, 6 to 7:30 p.m. contact 325-227-8982
San Angelo Toastmasters Thursdays, Zoom Meetings at 5:30-6:30, FMI Hilda Guffey, 325-450-7044, hilguff@yahoo.com
San Angelo Writers' Club 2nd Tues, 6:30pm, TGC Stephens downtown library lobby, FMI Sanangelowritersclub@gmail.com
Space to Be Me (LGBTQIA Youth Support Group) - Wednesdays, 6:00pm, Open Arms Office, 113 North Harrison Street. FMI Contact Jennie Wagner @325-655-2000 or jwagner@openarmscv.ofg
SMART Recovery - free group support for people experiencing addictions. Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 pm at 133 W Concho Ave #110, San Angelo, TX 76903. FMI call (325)-944-2561. Survivor Warriors 2nd Thurs., 5:30 pm, Shannon Cancer Center, 2nd Floor, 131 E. Beauregard Ave., All individuals diagnosed with cancer & friend/family/caregivers welcome. FMI Nurse Navigation, at 325-747-3994.
Texas Veterans for Veterans - Tuesdays, 7:15am-9:30am, 1905 Pulliam, designed to help local needy veterans and their families. FMI 325-656-9562
TOPS TX 0136 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) - Weight Loss Group, Thurs, 7-8pm, Calvary Baptist Fellowship Center, 2401 Armstrong, San Angelo. FMI – 325-653-1045 or 325-656-8167. Veteran SMART Recovery - free support for people experiencing addictions. Weds, 6-7pm, Cactus Hotel (36 E Twohig Ave. #110, San Angelo). FMI Steven Keihl 325-944-2561. VFW POST 1815 - 10:00am, 3rd Sat., 125 S. Browning. FMI John Muckleroy, 655-6550
Vietnam Veterans of America -1st Thurs, 6:30p, 119 N. Chadbourne, FMI 949-3059
Women Veterans Society, every 3rd Thursday at 5:30 pm. 125 S. Browning St. For more information, email us at WomenVeteransSociety@gmail.com
Young Professionals of San Angelo, 3rd Thurs, Visitor Center's Riverview Room, 12-1pm. FMI: facebook.com/YPSanAngelo or sanangelo.org/yp/
December 6 to December 31
Concho Christmas Celebration by donation ($8 per car suggested)
decemberAround San Angelo
Concho Christmas Celebration was founded in 1994 to enhance the enjoyment of the Christmas Season by providing an annual light display. The event also contributes to the economic vitality of the Concho Valley area by providing and promoting a destination event which brings people into the City of San Angelo. The first Concho Christmas was established as a walking tour in the El Paseo de Santa Angela area featuring several lighted scenes and 21 sponsor Christmas cards.
Today, the light display, or ‘Tour of Lights’ as it is known, has grown into a 2.5 mile drive along the banks of the Concho River and features over 3 million lights.
December 3
Night at the Museum 4 - 8 p.m.
ASU Mayer Museum/2501 W. Ave. N, San Angelo Free
Bring the whole family to Night at the Museum, a free monthly event packed with fun, educational activities for all ages! This month, we’ll have a special Christmas-themed night alongside Angelo State’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
December 5
San Angelo READS! North Pole Pop-Up Event 1919 Knickerbocker, San Angelo Stadium parking lot (Johnson Street Side, Gate 4 Area) communications@saisd.org Free 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
The North Pole Pop-Up Event is a free, family-friendly celebration of literacy featuring holiday-themed games, activities, and festive fun
December 7
Tree Lightning Ceremony at 5:15 pm In the parking lot at the corner of Concho Avenue and Chadbourne Street
The Tour of Lights organized by Concho Christmas Celebration, will host its 31st season in collaboration with Downtown San Angelo, Inc. and the City of San Angelo. The dazzling displays of lights and decorations throughout downtown San Angelo and the Concho River create a magical atmosphere that brings people together and spreads joy and cheer.
These are just a few of the many monthly activities. Please check dates and times before attending any listing. Send your events to family@wcc.net
December 7
Pancakes with Santa Fort Concho National Historic Landmark: 630 S Oakes St
7:30 am - 11:00 am
Come to Christmas At Old Fort Concho and have ‘Pancakes with Santa’ on December the 7th, 2024. The Lions Clubs of San Angelo are hosting their annual Pancake Breakfast! Enjoy a delicious breakfast for $10 per person, or upgrade to include grounds admission for $15 per person. Children 6 and under eat free! Buying tickets in advance supports the Lions’ charitable endeavors and boosts community funding.
December 08
Holiday Concert: Is Now...
82 Gillis St, Brooks and Bates Theatre
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Join us for our annual holiday concert, featuring a setting of Gloria from “Misa Criolla,” holiday carols, and our traditional sing-a-long.
December 13 - December 15
The Nutcracker 2024
72 W. College Ave, The Elta Joyce Murphey Performance Hall
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This long-standing San Angelo tradition is a Holiday must-see. This production, choreographed by Artistic Director Erin Lane, is a fresh and fun take on the classic Tchaikovsky Ballet, and features a fabulous 30piece orchestra. With exceptional dancers, beautiful hand-painted backdrops, ornate costumes, and swelling accompaniment, Ballet San Angelo’s Nutcracker will deliver a ballet experience your family will never forget!
December 14
Elks Annual Hoop Shoot
YMCA 353 S. Randolph Street area kids ages 8-13
Free Throw Contest
Registration begins at 1:00pm -contest begins at 1:30 FMI call 325-277-6920
December 14
December 14, 202414
Family Day at SAMFA
1 Love St, San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Free
Come join us in some free holiday family fun!
December 15, 202415
Run, Rudolph, Run
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
The Tour is comprised of animated scenes depicting The Twelve Days of Christmas, a Toy Factory, A Gingerbread House, and elaborate nativity scene, reindeer, a National Patriotism Flag, Santa Claus and much, much more! To add to the holiday spirit, attendees entering the tour are encouraged to tune in to local community radio station KCSA 97.1 FM which broadcasts Holiday music during the month of Dec.
December 7
CHRISTMAS PARADE: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Historic Downtown San Angelo
Santa’s Santa Fe Christmas
703 S Chadbourne
Free 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Santa Claus is Coming to Town… by Train!The Railway Museum of San Angelo’s annual Santa’s Santa Fe Christmas is back and better than ever! Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 14th, from 10 AM to 4 PM, for a day filled with festive fun.
Good ol’ Saint Nick will make his grand arrival by train at 10 AM, courtesy of Texas Pacifico. Don’t miss the chance to snap a free photo with Santa and create lasting memories.
1 Love St, San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts
Free Event for family fun!!!
RUN STARTS AT THE SAN ANGELO MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, ACROSS CELEBRATION BRIDGE, THEN ALONG THE TRAIL OF LIGHTS.
*TOTAL LENGTH: 3 MILES
*AFTER THE RUN THERE WILL BE HOT CHOCOLATE, COOKIES, PLUS AN OPPORTUNITY TO VISIT WITH SANTA AND TAKE PHOTOS! San Angelo Road Lizards
December 16, 202416
West Texas Symphonic Brass | Holiday Classics
82 Gillis St, San Angelo Performing Arts Center
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
The West Texas Symphonic Brass is an ensemble made up of the top musicians from the orchestras of San Angelo, Lubbock, Amarillo, the West Texas Symphony, and the Abilene Philharmonic. The WTSB performs throughout the region bringing their love of brass playing to the people.
December 17
Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico
72 West College Avenue
$18 7:30 pm
Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande invite you to celebrate the holiday season with Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico!
You’ll experience the spirit of Posadas, the majesty of the Reyes Magos, and the thrill of breaking piñatas! Join Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande for an unforgettable program where every note and dance step embodies the rich cultural tapestry of Christmas in Mexico!
December 21, 202421
Jingle All the Way - Cactus Market
13 E. Twohig Ave, Cactus Market 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Shop an array of unique local Craft and food vendors! Candles, leather goods, metal artwork, jewelry, woodwork, crochet, photography, bird houses, home decor, you name it! Live entertainment all day. For information on becoming a vendor at Cactus Market Days please contact Judy J. Fowler at Candles Handmade by JF at 325-949-6200 from Tuesday through Saturday 11am - 5:30pm.
snapshots
Send your snapshot photos to us for the monthly SNAPSHOTS section. No professional photos, school pictures or sports pictures taken by a professional. We want simple snapshots of your kids.
The email must have all the required info Email to: family@wcc.net by Decemberr 15, 2024 to be considered for the January issue.
Include: Child’s name, Parent’s name, Contact phone number or email, Permission to print child’s photo/name, Your favorite caption
Cookies and Milk with Santa
One photo per entry, please. Submitted photos and info will serve as a “photo release,” allowing Ink Publications, LLC the rights to use the photo in any publications (digital or print) including online advertising for the magazine.
Santa Claus will make a special appearance at Shannon Women’s and Children’s Hospital for Cookies & Milk with Santa, benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network. This holiday event is hosted by CMN volunteers and allows area families to spend time with Saint Nick himself and enjoy festive treats.
Cookies & Milk with Santa will run from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 14 in the Shannon Women’s and Children’s Hospital conference room (201 E Harris Ave).
Parents can reserve a specific time when purchasing tickets for their children. Tickets are available for $15.00 per child and can be purchased from the CMN office by calling (325) 747-6160.
Proceeds from this event will serve the 16,000 children treated annually at Shannon. Like all Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals fundraisers, 100% of the funds raised help create miracles by funding needed medical equipment, training and therapy programs for children treated at Shannon Medical Center.
Quinn dressed as Dorothy,Christoval
Madison hanging out with Dad
Ivy Fulton, Galilee Missionary Baptist Church, 2024 Health Fair.
Online Holiday Family fun
How to Track Santa Online
Starting at 5:00 a.m. CST on Christmas Eve, you can follow Santa and his reindeer all the way from the North Pole to your doorstep in real-time -- see a map of Santa's current location, along with high-resolution video and geolocated photos of his sleigh zipping around the globe. www.noradsanta.org
Elf Yourself. Silly silly Christmas fun. You won’t be able to stop laughing at this. You can upload photos of your family's faces (or friends, pets, etc.) to an elf body and then they dance around a winter wonderland at ElfYourself.com. (There is also an app for this!!)
Fun From The North Pole
Christmas games, Christmas music, Christmas karaoke, online games and activities: includes checkers with Santa, Trim the Tree, crossword puzzles, memory games, flashcards, find out what the weather is at the North Pole, Mrs. Claus’ cookbook, find the hidden objects and much more. www.northpole.com/
Christmas Cookie Recipes
Find the best Santa-worthy Christmas cookies and be the talk of the cookie exchange. From gingerbread cookies and sugar cookies to shortbread and gluten free versions, they have more than 650 recipes to choose from. www.allrecipes.com/recipes/841/holidays-and-events/christmas/desserts/christmas-cookies/
Decorate the House Fun
Click and drag the mouse to hang lights on the house. A fun Christmas computer activity for children and students of all ages.. www.abcya.com/games/kindergarten_christmas_lights
Christmas Specials on TV
Ever wonder when your favorite Christmas specials are on tv? This is a list of many of the best scheduled for 2023. Not all content on this website is family friendly or even about Christmas, so parents use this one wisely. www.chiff.com/home_life/holiday/christmas/whats-on-tv.htm
Christmas Trivia
Share in your knowledge of Christmas for the whole family. https://landoftrivia.com/christmas-trivia-questions/
PROTECT YOUR KIDS
Children present unique security risks when they use a computer — not only do you have to keep them safe, but you have to protect their data on your computer. By taking some simple steps, you can dramatically reduce the threats.
- Keep your computer in a central and open location in your home and be aware of other computers your child may be using.
- Discuss and set guidelines/rules for computer use with your children. Post these rules by the computer as a reminder.
- Teach your children never to give out personal information to people they meet online such as in chat rooms or bulletin boards.
- Remember - No program is a substitute for parental supervision. Also, you may be able to set some parental controls within your browser. Internet Explorer allows you to restrict or allow certain web sites to be viewed on your computer, and you can protect these settings with a password. To find those options, click Tools on your menu bar, select Internet Options, choose the Content tab, and click the Enable button under Content Advisor.
Children still need advice, guidance, and protection - BY THEIR PARENTS/GUARDIANS! This goes for all ages - not just little ones. If they are living under your roof, you should be monitoring their computer activity. Make the holidays a fun time and carry on the rules into the New Year! Every moment you protect them is important.
Adopt a Mom Program
The Adopt a Mom Program was first established in 1980's at the Family Shelter. The Christmas season can be depressing to those living at a domestic violence center when it's not safe at the time to be around other family members. So the Family Shelter makes every effort to spread joy and cheer.
By adopting this practice, many in the community have made this their annual tradition. It gives community participants the opportunity to choose a family and buy gifts for that designated mom and her children.
Some, of course, favor the idea of simply purchasing miscellaneous gifts for all ages (children, teens and adults). This is also helpful to the Family Shelter when we receive moms and children all the way up to Christmas Day.
Children's toys and gifts are easy. The toughest group is teens and adults. Ideas might include watches, perfume, cameras. umbrellas, purses, wallets, PJ's, robes, slippers, make up and gift cards.
The Adopt a Mom Program puts the magic back in the season where children have a chance to believe again.
Elks Americanism essay contest
The Elks Americanism essay contest is for 5th, 6th grade, 7th & 8th grade Students. This year’s theme is “What Does Patriotism Mean to Me”
The essay should not exceed 300 words, and must be typed or written legibly in Ink. The entrant must submit the essay no later than December 15th, 2024 to the San Angelo Elks Lodge #1880 at 2121 S. Chadbourne. San Angelo, Texas 76903; or it can be emailed to lodge1880@gmail.com.
Essays will be judged in the four divisions. Judging criteria is Originality (avoids the use of trite or worn out words and phrases), Development of the Theme (stays focused on ideas and thoughts; don’t ramble) Mechanics and Neatness (uses proper spelling, grammar and punctuation).
An Information sheet on the student submitting the essay, must also accompany the essay. Information must include the student’s name, age, grade, school, teacher’s name, parents name, gender, phone number, and email address. It also needs to include the student’s address, and the address of the school. To download an application packet go to:elks.org/programs/americanism.cfm
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each division will be submitted to the district for review in January, and those winners will be forwarded to the state for review in February. State winners will be sent to Elks Grand Lodge in March. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place national winners will be selected and announced in Kansas City Missouri in July of 2025. Those winners will receive a Monetary Award as well as a Plaque from the Elks Grand Lodge.
Meals For The Elderly relies on our volunteers to help us deliver meals to over 600 recipients daily.
If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions about the volunteer opportunities available, please visit www.mealsfortheelderly.org or contact the Volunteer Director, at (325) 655-9200 or email them at volunteer@mealsfortheelderly.org
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