photo by Carolyn Nored Miller
What’s Inside . . . .
Charlie Hayes Ramos is helping us kick off the new year!!! 2025 is going to be the best!
Charlie is two years old and truly wishes this was real snow on the cover.
His parents are Rylee & Tammy Ramos He has two siblings, Abigayle and Katelynn. His grandparents are Charlie & Carmen Ramos and Bryan & Sandi Craig .
He loves to play outside, play music, and search for dinosaurs!
Our SNAPSHOTS page has been a big part of San Angelo Family Magazine for many years and we need pics of your Concho Valley kids ages 0-18. These are just cute pics you’ve taken with your phone!! We love highlighting our local kids and everything that makes them happy. See page 18 for more information.
San Angelo Family is published monthly by Ink Publications, LLC. We welcome letters, articles, artwork, and photographs from our readers and the community. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. Enclose a selfaddressed, stamped envelope for any items to be returned. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. You may email us anytime at family@wcc.net
All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.
©san angelo family 2025 Please recycle this magazine.
San Angelo Family Magazine P.O. Box 910 Fort Davis, TX 79734 325-656-7438
family@wcc.net
kybassett@yahoo.com www.safmtx.com
cover photo by Carolyn Miller
New Horizons Heart Stories...
New Horizons, a dedicated Child Placing Agency serving the Big Country and Concho Valley, offers critical services in the San Angelo area, including the licensing and case management of foster homes. Our goal is to place children in familiar surroundings whenever possible, but due to a shortage of foster homes, it’s sometimes necessary to place children in homes far from their hometowns. This distance can make it harder for biological parents to maintain connections with their children, potentially affecting their bond and attachment.
New Year and New Journey’s...
As the new year begins, many people look to take on new challenges and adventures for themselves and their families. If you’ve been considering becoming a foster family but are unsure, I encourage you to take the next step.
Start by reaching out to a family who has experience with fostering or a Child Placing Agency. Gather information, write down your questions, and try not to feel overwhelmed. While the process can seem daunting, remember that your agency is here to support you every step of the way. You won’t be on this journey alone – we are part of your team and your village.
While many enter foster care with the hope of adoption, we also aim to raise awareness about the immediate need for foster homes. Providing a loving, temporary environment not only benefits the children but also allows biological parents to concentrate on their own goals with the assurance that their children are safe and cared for, paving the way for a successful reunion.
Make a difference in 2025.
Building Bridges is West Texas Rehab Center’s Hospice of San Angelo program for grieving children. It is a grief support group specifically designed for children and teens who have experienced loss through the death of someone significant in their lives. Trained staff and volunteers offer support through the use of activities including art, music and other creative means to encourage children to express their feelings of grief and allow them to share cherished memories of their loved ones. Peer groups help decrease the isolation often felt by children and teens who grieve, as they form bonds with other participants who have also experienced loss. With Building Bridges as support, children and teens come together to share the experience of life.
Building Bridges seeks to promote growth and healing to grieving children and teens by helping them to identify their feelings of grief in a safe environment. Group activities help children and teens begin to express their feelings and start the journey toward grief resolution. Participants’ self-esteem is improved through the validation of the unique qualities of individual grief. Building Bridges provides guidance for children and teens to adapt to the many changes in their families and teaches skills to help cope with loss that will effectively serve them throughout life.
Building Bridges is offered twice annually during each school year. During each session, groups meet for one hour on Tuesday nights for six weeks. Groups are divided according to age and each group is facilitated by carefully trained volunteers. Although our volunteers are well trained in grief theory, they will simply provide grief support to participants, not psychotherapy. Parents or caretakers attend an adult session each Tuesday evening designed especially for them.
There is no charge to participate in Building Bridges and the program is open to any grieving child in the community. If you have a child who could benefit from grief support and would like to attend Building Bridges, please call our office at (325) 658-6524.
Volunteers are the cornerstone of the Building Bridges program. Adults who have a special love for children and a desire to help a child’s grieving heart are encouraged to consider becoming a Building Bridges Volunteer. Training classes are offered to teach grief theory, developmental aspects of loss, the art of listening, and techniques for facilitating small groups. General training to become a Hospice of San Angelo volunteer is also required. For more information on becoming a volunteer please contact Kat Turpen at kturpen@wtrc.com
Building Bridges
ASNHC Annual Open House
Angelo State University’s Department of Biology will once again host its annual Open House for the Angelo State Natural History Collections (ASNHC) on Tuesday, Feb.18, 2025 in Cavness Science Building, 2460 Dena Drive. This will be the first Open House event since February 2020, when the ASNHC celebrated its 20,000th mammal specimen.
Concurrent with this event, the ASNHC will also host its first silent auction featuring Terry C. Maxwell’s coveted original illustrations to help fund the efforts of the collections. Attendees will be able to view these pieces in person as well as online during the event.
The Open House is free to the public and will begin at 5 p.m. Doors to the collections will be open for exploration followed by a 6 p.m. presentation by Dr. Michael Dixon, titled “The Curious Complexity of Frogs: Things Your Elementary Science Teacher Forgot to Tell You.” Activities will conclude with catering, kid-friendly activities, and interactive booths featuring our curators until 7 p.m.
An ASU faculty member since 2003, Dixon is also curator of the ASNHC’s Herpetology Collection. In that role, he oversees over 15,000 specimens of amphibians and reptiles. Known for his innovative teaching techniques, he was awarded the ASU President’s Award for Faculty Excellence in Teaching in 2012. He has also led several groups of students on Biology study abroad trips to Central America and Europe. He holds a Ph.D. in Zoology from the University of Texas.
The ASNHC contains more than 100,000 specimens of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and plants from the Concho Valley, other regions of Texas, many other states, Mexico, Africa, Asia, Australia and even the Galápagos Islands. The collections aid student and faculty research projects, are used as teaching tools, and are viewed by hundreds of K-12 students every year through various educational outreach efforts.
For more information, contact Rose Wilhoyt, ASNHC manager, at 325-486-6640 or rose.wilhoyt@angelo.edu
Just in case it snows in San Angelo this winter!!!
Snow Games and Activities
Footprint Tag
Play tag as you normally would…but stepping only in others’ footprints
Snow Golf
Take some time to smooth out a fairway and a green. Take an open can and plant it in the snow–this is the hole.
For golf balls, use hockey pucks. For clubs, use hockey sticks or real golf clubs.
Hula Hoop Challenge
Have you ever tried using ‘Hula Hoops’ all bundled up in winter clothing? Have a contest to see who can last the longest!
Freeze Tag
What fun in the winter-time! Play this just as you would indoors and any other time of the year. The person who is ‘It’ tags someone; that person stays frozen until another player tags him/her again to unfreeze’ them.
Snowman Hat Trick
Build a plump, snowman in the yard/playfield. Make a game of taking turns trying to land a hat on his head by throwing it like a frisbee from 10 or so feet away.
ways to volunteer
Arts, Youth and Education
Boys & Girls Clubs of San Angelo
Building Bridges
Children‛s Advocacy Center of Tom Green County Inc.
Boy Scouts of America, Texas Southwest Council
Girl Scouts of Central Texas
House of Faith
Laura W. Bush Institute for Women‛s Health
Salvation Army
Special Olympics, Texas/Big Country
West Texas Boys Ranch
YMCA
Civic Engagement and Outreach
Adopt-a-Highway
Adopt-A-Spot
Adult Literacy Council of Tom Green County
Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council for the Concho Valley
Alzheimer‛s Association
American Cancer Society
American Red Cross (West Central Texas Chapter)
Catholic Outreach Services
Concho Valley Senior Companion Program
Downtown San Angelo Inc.
Elks Lodge 1880
Fort Concho National Historic Landmark
Hospice of San Angelo
San Angelo Symphony Society
Santa Fe Crossing Senior Center
West Texas Lighthouse for the Blind
Hunger and Homelessness
Christians in Action
Concho Valley Regional Food Bank
Goodwill Industries of San Angelo
Habitat for Humanity
Meals for the Elderly
New Bridge Family Shelter
Rust Street Ministries
United Way of the Concho Valley
Special Projects
Angelo Civic Theater
Concho Christmas Celebration
Keep San Angelo Beautiful
Railway Museum of San Angelo
San Angelo Cultural Affairs Council
San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts
San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo Assn.
Sonrisas Therapeutic Riding, Inc.
Volunteering is a powerful way to give back to your community and make a positive impact. By dedicating your time and effort to helping others, you can contribute to the well-being of those in need. Whether it's volunteering at a local charity, organizing community events, or participating in service projects, your actions can truly make a difference. The act of giving back not only benefits those you are helping, but it also brings a sense of fulfillment and purpose to your own life.
When you engage in volunteer work, you become part of something bigger than yourself. You join a community of like-minded individuals who share the same goal of making the world a better place. Together, you have the power to create positive change and address important social issues. The power of giving back lies in the collective effort of individuals who believe in the value of kindness, compassion, and selflessness.
Everyone has a talent of some type...for example, I give back to my communities (and worldwide) through my photography. Pick a passion. Pick an organization. Do something individually. But make a difference in 2025.
Email me with your ideas at family@wcc.net
This list is by no means complete! The list was partially taken from Angelo State University Community ServiceVolunteer Opportunities and www.sanangelo.org.
Today you may be the person with the ability to help, but tomorrow you may be the recipient of someone else's volunteer effort. Part of being a great volunteer is loving what you're doing. Find something that you're passionate about or something that inspires you, and then find a need in your community. There are dozens of reasons why you should volunteer - you just need to find the one that feels right. With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits of volunteering are enormous to you, your family, and your community. San Angelo is such an amazing place to live and it takes so many to keep our quality of life going. Call these or any other organizations to start volunteering today!
If your organization is interested in advertising in San Angelo Family Magazine, please contact Carolyn Miller, 325656-7438 or family@wcc.net
Make 2025 your best year!
National Prayer Breakfast San Angelo
Scheduled for February 6, 2025
Mark your calendars and Save the Date for this very special 2025 National Prayer Breakfast San Angelo. The 30th Annual event is scheduled for Thursday, February 6, at 6:00 a.m. at the McNease Convention Center.
As a gift to the San Angelo community for their decades of support, there will be no charge to attend this year’s National Prayer Breakfast.
We are excited to have Dr. Rick Rigsby as this year’s featured guest speaker. As President and CEO of Rick Rigsby Communications, the internationally acclaimed speaker presents to the top companies worldwide.
Dr. Rick is also a favorite among professional and collegiate sports organizations. Rigsby--a former award-winning professor--spent over two decades teaching at various colleges, most of those years serving at Texas A&M University. In addition to academic duties, Dr. Rigsby was hired by legendary football icon R. C. Slocum as chaplain and Life Skills coach for the Aggies football team.
A former award-winning journalist, Dr. Rigsby is a regular contributor on numerous national television and radio programs.
Inspired by a genuine conviction to help people realize their full potential, Rick Rigsby brings a combined four decades of experience and expertise to the set of How Ya Livin'? This transformative podcast encourages, inspires and challenges people at every level to dream bigger, stretch beyond comfort zones and achieve the impossible! As Rick says, Most people I meet are asking themselves the same unrelenting question, 'I wonder how great I can actually be?' What a privilege to help people make such profound discoveries!
There is no charge this year for tickets for the National Prayer Breakfast San Angelo. Breakfast begins at 6:00 a.m. The program begins at 6:30 a.m. with the presentation of colors, national anthem, and pledge of allegiance, followed by welcome and special music. The Prayer Breakfast concludes at 7:30 a.m.
Invite your friends, family, and co-workers to the National Prayer Breakfast San Angelo, an inspiring and uplifting community gathering. For more information, call 325-234-0375.
ARE YOU READY - OR NOT?
Preparedness…
An everyday task for everyday life. Being prepared for emergencies is crucial at home, school, work and in your community. Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood, workplace or school or can confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services –water, gas, electricity or telephones – were cut off?
Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right away. The best way to make you and your family safer is to be prepared before disaster strikes.
Prepare for Disasters Before they Strike: Build A Disaster Supplies Kit
There are six basics you should stock for your home in the case of an emergency: water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, and special items for medical conditions.
Keep the items that you would most likely need during an evacuation in an easy-to carry container. Below is a partial list of what should be included in your kit. Possible containers include a large, covered trash container, a camping backpack or a duffle bag.
Water
Store water in plastic containers. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people will need more.
• Store one gallon of water per person per day.
• Keep at least a three-day supply of water per person (2 quarts for drinking, 2 quarts for each person in your household for food preparation/sanitation).*
Food
Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. If you must heat food, pack a can of sterno. Select food items that are compact and lightweight. Include a selection of the following foods in your Disaster Supplies Kit: Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, and vegetables. High energy foods. Canned juices. Vitamins. Food for infants. And don’t forget the pets.
Change your stored water supply every six months so it stays fresh. Replace your stored food every six months. Re-think your kit and family needs at least once a year. Replace batteries, update clothes, etc.
First Aid Kit
Assemble a first aid kit for your home and one for each car.
• Various bandages and dressings and tape
• Waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• antiseptic wipes.
• large medical grade non-latex gloves.
• Anti-bacterial ointment.
• Cold pack.
• Scissors (small, personal).
• Tweezers.
• CPR breathing barrier, such as a face shield.
Non-Prescription Drugs
• Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever
• Anti-diarrhea medication
• Antacid (for stomach upset)
• Syrup of Ipecac (use to induce vomiting if advised by the Poison Control Center)
• Laxative
Tools and Supplies
• Mess kits, or paper cups, plates, & plastic utensils
• Emergency preparedness manual
• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Cash or traveler's checks, change
• Non-electric can opener, utility knife
• Fire extinguisher: small canister ABC type
• Tube tent
• Pliers, tape, compass
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Aluminum foil & plastic storage containers
• Signal flare
• Paper, pencil
• Needles, thread
• Shut-off wrench, for household gas and water
• Map of the area (for locating shelters)
Sanitation
• Toilet paper, towelettes
• Soap, liquid detergent
• Feminine supplies
• Personal hygiene items
• Plastic garbage bags, ties (personal sanitation uses)
• Plastic bucket with tight lid
• Disinfectant
• Household chlorine bleach
Clothing and Bedding
*Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person.
• Sturdy shoes or work boots
• Rain gear
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Hat and gloves
Special Items
• Remember family members with special requirements, such as infants and elderly or disabled persons For Baby
Formula, diapers, bottles, powdered milk, medications For Adults
• Prescription drugs (including heart & high blood pressure medication and insulin)
• Denture needs
• Contact lenses and supplies & eye glasses
Important Family Documents
Keep these records in a waterproof, portable container:
- Will, insurance policies, deeds, stocks and bonds
- Passports, social security cards, immunization records
- Bank account numbers
- Credit card account numbers and companies
- Inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers
- Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates)
Make a plan
Meet with your family and discuss why you need to prepare for disaster. Explain the dangers of fire, severe weather and earthquakes to children. Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a team.
• Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen. Explain what to do in each case.
• Pick two places to meet: 1. Right outside your
home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire. 2. Outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home.
• Ask an out-of-state friend to be your “family contact.” Family members should call this person and tell them where they are.
• Discuss what to do in an evacuation. Plan how to take care of your pets.
• Write down all of these contact numbers and information on the family emergency contact card.
Complete this checklist
• Post emergency telephone numbers by phones (fire, police, ambulance, etc.).
• Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number for emergency help.
• Make sure each adult in your home knows how and when to turn off the utilities (water, gas, and electricity) at the main switches.
• Check if you have adequate insurance coverage.
• Get training for adults in your home on how to use the fire extinguisher (ABC type), and show them where it's kept.
• Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class.
• Find the safe spots in your home for each type of disaster.
Practice your plan
• Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
• Quiz your kids every six months so they remember what to do.
• Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills.
• Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Emergency Tip:
In the contacts list of your cell phone, enter the name and phone number of the person emergency services should call on your behalf and label it ICE. ICE stands for In Case of Emergency. Paramedics know what ICE means, and look for it immediately.
When disaster hits, Texans need to be ready. If you can’t easily answer these three key questions, make your plan today.
1. Do you know where you will find your loved ones?
2. Do you have essentials, such as water and medication?
3. Do you know how you will get trusted information?
Check out these websites for further information: www.texasready.gov www.redcross.org www.ready.gov
Contact your local Emergency Management Office for further assistance: (325) 657-4230
Stephens Central Library
Thunderstorm Comes to Texas
Thunderstorm Comes to Texas is the third book in the Adventures Dogs Series written by Kathy Priest-Smith. Kathy, a West Texas Author in San Angelo, Texas, is very excited about this third book, which includes a games in the pages of the book. As in her previous books, they are about her dogs. Her new book is available at these San Angelo, Texas landmarks-Cactus Bookstore, Eggemeyer’s Country Store, Fancy Pants, College Hills Animal Hospital, and Hargrave’s Store in Mertzon, Texas.
The next book sale will be January 11 -"The Friends of the Tom Green County Library will hold our first sale of 2025 Saturday, January 11 in the basement of Stephens Central Library. Sale hours are 9-1."
The Larry Justiss Friends of the Library Bookstore
The aim of the Friends of the Tom Green County Library is to provide funds for noncounty budget items to be used for the improvement of our three county libraries. The Friends organization accomplishes this aim through on-line sales on the ABE web site, every other month book sales in the basement of Stephens Central Library located at the corner of Irving and Beauregard Streets , and the staffing of a bookstore located on the first floor of Stephens Central Library.
The Larry Justiss Friends of the Library bookstore has been in operation since the opening of Stephens Library in 2011. Books available include hardback and paperback books for adults, young adults, and children. Also included in the bookstore inventory are music CD's, movies, puzzles, and audio books. There is a section of one-of-a-kind books and other items in the Gift Collection area. All items are either donations from the community or library discards.
At this time the bookstore is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10:00-1:00. There are additional hours Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 1-4. All staffers are volunteers. If you are interested in working a 1-4 shift on Tuesday or a 10-1 shift on Friday, please talk to one of the volunteers at the bookstore and fill out a volunteer form.
We need HELP!!!
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
As parents we make sure our children learn how to read and write – and yet we often assume children will naturally develop skills like kindness and empathy. You wouldn’t think that you need to be teaching your kid to be kind – but, like reading and writing, emotional intelligence doesn’t come naturally to all children. Some children miss the subtle signs that they are upsetting those around them. Some children have a hard time putting themselves in other people’s shoes. Some children have a hard time knowing how to be kind.
So, how do you help teach your kids to be kind and not turn into a bully? There are some easy steps to build empathy and kindness in your children.
1. Model kind behavior.
Do you make fun of strangers? Do you talk bad about your relatives or friends when they aren’t there? Do you treat your spouse, pets or even kids in a degrading fashion some times? The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. If you tell your child to be kind, but you are modeling negative, unkind behavior – your words will have little impact on their behavior. Children do as they see – not as you tell them to do. Be a wonderful role model for your child. Show your child respect when redirecting them or disciplining them. Speak to your spouse with kindness. Your children will learn from your example.
2. Highlight people’s emotions around you.
Teach Your Children to be KIND
If your child has a hard time reading social cues, practice a game I like to call “Guess the Feeling.” Sit at a park or a mall people. If you love people watching – this game shouldn’t be too hard. Find someone showing an extreme emotion – such as excite sadness or anger. Ask your child, “What do you think they’re feeling?” Ask them to make up a story about what may be happening. helps children identify non-verbal clues as to how others feel and helps them put meaning behind emotions.
3. Reassess how you tease your children – is it demeaning, taunting or degrading?
Some families love to tease each other, but some children can’t take intense teasing. Some parents do not think their teasing is cruel – but if your child reacts by crying and storming off – chances are they are feeling degraded. Would you want your child to make fun of peers the way you are making fun of them? Some parents might think they are just “toughening up” their children or being playful, but kids will often take it out on their peers. Children learn how to be playful by the tone their family sets. If mean spirited taunting is acceptable at home – then children will think it is acceptable elsewhere.
4. Point out how their behavior affects those around them.
When your child’s behavior is affecting those around them – point it out. Let your child know how they are affecting others without shaming them. An example might be something like, “You hit her and now she is so sad. Look at that red mark you left on her face. You wouldn’t want her to put a red mark on your face. I would be very upset with her if she hurt you. I love you both and don’t want either of you hurt.”
5. Teach your children the joys of helping others.
Be an example for your children and help strangers, friends and family. Let them know that it feels good to help others – even if you get nothing back. Set up opportunities for you to help others as a family. Teach your child that even small acts of kindness go a long way. Express to your child why you are holding the door for another person, letting someone get in front of you in traffic or helping someone when their hands are full. Explain that it is nice to be helpful, even if the person doesn’t say thank you or appreciate it. You should give to give – not give to get.
6. Do not let your children talk to you in a rude fashion.
If you allow your child to talk rudely to you – they might think it is acceptable to talk to others that way as well. Kindness starts at home. There are ways to correct your child’s tone and improve their manners without being punitive. Do your kids talk disrespectfully to you? Do you wish you didn't always have to correct them? Learn an approach to teach your kids to talk nicely to you without correcting!
Most of us would be shocked if we heard our children were treating others unkindly. But, If we don’t teach these skills to our children – we may not be helping them be the best person they can be.
Article by: Natasha Daniels. For more articles on teaching your child kindness – follow Anxious Toddlers Pinterest board.
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, 6:30p, Suez Shriner's building (2915 W. Loop 306, San Angelo) FMI call Ellen @ 903-816-2971 or Sheryl @ 325-262-1492
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/
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
January 1
First Day Hikes - Midnight Madness
San Angelo State Park
januaryAround San Angelo
12:00am - 1:30am
Join Ranger Kennie in starting off the new year with a midnight hike through Talley Valley. Experience the park after dark as we hike into 2025.
Location: Playground Parking Lot
Distance/Difficulty: Easy, about 1.5 miles, Talley Valley Trail
Bring: Water, close-toed shoes, flashlight or headlamp
Pets are allowed to join us on this hike. They MUST be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. If parking lot fills up, please park at the Chaparral Pavilion or along the Bison/Longhorn Viewing Area Road for overflow parking.
DO NOT park along the wildlife viewing blind area for this event.
January 1
First Bike Ride - San Angelo State Park
12:00pm
Join Friends of San Angelo State Park and volunteer John Talley in the first mountain bike ride in 2025. All experience levels are welcome for this trail ride.
Location: Isabel Harte Multi-use area, Park in the boat ramp parking lot at the end of the road.
Distance/Difficulty: Easy to moderate, Winding Snake Trail (distance will vary based on group's overall skill level)
Bring: Water, snacks, close-toed shoes, sun protection, bike, helmet
Cost: Free with park admission
January 2 & 3
Holidays Around the World: An Escape Room (Grades 6-12)
33 W. Beauregard Ave, Stephens Central Library, Teen Republic, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
The holiday season is here ALL around the world! Participants will solve puzzles, use deductive skills, AND learn about Holidays Around the World in this escape room. Seating is limited; signups are required. Please note that signups open 4 weeks prior to the event, and close 48 hours prior to the event. This pro
gram is subject to a signup quote; patrons will be noti fied at least 24hrs in advance if the quota is not met. This escape room event is in-person and for patrons in grades 6-12 courtesy of the Teen Republic, free of charge.
January 2-19
From the Realms of Glory: Spanish Colonial Art San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts 1 Love Street 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
The San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, located at 1 Love Street, presents From the Realms of Glory, a stunning selection from SAMFA’s permanent collection of sacred art from Spanish Colonial and 19th century Latin America.
These works, created between 1600 and 1900, in the words of the Catholic Catechism, were intended to “draw man to adoration, to prayer, and to the love of God.” From the Realms of Glory is a celebration of the rich artistic and religious traditions of Catholic Latin America.
This exhibition will be on view through January 19, 2025.
Saturdays (January 4 - 25)
Draw Together
33 W. Beauregard Ave, Stephens Central Library, Teen Republic, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Join your fellow teen artists on Saturdays as we… Draw Together! Each week we’ll have a special drawing challenge to test and expand your skills! We will provide basic supplies, but feel free to bring your personal drawing supplies if you prefer! This event is inperson and for Teen Republic patrons (grades 6-12), free of charge.
January 7
13+] Beginner Sewing Machines
33 W. Beauregard Ave, Stephen's Central Library, STEAM Central Makerspace 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
January 9-30
Volunteens!
33 W. Beauregard Ave, Stephens Central Library, Teen Republic, 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Learn basic techniques for using a sewing machine and apply them to a beginner-friendly sewing project. Seating is limited, registration required.
Need some hours for college applications? Want to look extra awesome on resumes? Do you like having fun while giving back to your community? Then join us for Voluneteens! Drop by the Teen Republic Thursdays from 5-6pm to hang out, have fun, and lend a hand. Tasks may vary week to week; there’s sure to be something for everyone! We will have volunteer applications on hand. With your application, we can keep you up to date on more volunteer opportunities! This event is in-person and for Teen Republic patrons (grades 6-12), free of charge.
January 23
[13+] Valentine's Cards
33 W. Beauregard Ave, Stephen's Central Library, STEAM Central Makerspace, 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Use a variety of materials to make cards for the upcoming Valentine’s Day.
Seating is limited, registration required.
February 1
A STAR-STUDDED JUBILEE
The Murphey Performance Hall 7:00 PM
Featuring special guest artist, Bárbara Padilla
The San Angelo Symphony Orchestra takes the stage with vibrant classical crossover singer, Bárbara Padilla, for an evening you won’t soon forget. The Mexican-American soprano was runner-up on the fourth season of America’s Got Talent and is known to turn timeless songs into enchanting adventures that ignite the imagination. The star-studded evening will also feature the Prelude and Toreador song from Bizet’s Carmen. The opera, first performed in in Paris in 1875 and tells the story of the downfall of Don José, a naïve soldier in love with fiery gypsy Carmen. This dazzling night of classical music has something for everyone and is guaranteed to be a great time!
Send us your events for February to family@wcc.net. Our goal is to get everyone out of the house and to take advantage of all the good things available in the Concho Valley to go do!!
Julian and Glenn Band preparing for MIGHTY BOBCAT BAND
Send your snapshot photos to us for the monthly SNAPSHOTS.
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 January 15, 2025 to be considered for the February issue.
Include: Child’s name, Parent’s name, Contact phone number or email, Permission to print child’s photo/name, Your favorite caption
and
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.
Adeline loving her chicken
Emma Grace Home for the holidays
Cindy Lou Who for class Christmas party
Juliana is always a shining star
Paisley Jo enjoying some nice weather
Slayton & Huck - biggest little Longhorn fans
Mama’s Boy!!!
Paisley will brighten anyone’s day!!!
Team Naughty is Kenzy and Trinity Playground fun!!!
Out
about in San Angelo, Texas
