photo by
Carolyn Nored Miller
November 2024
What’s Inside . . . .
Celebrating the Military Family Month with us are Tristan (not pictured on the cover), age 13 (John Glenn Middle School), Landon, age 5 (Belaire Elementary) and Noah, age 2.
Their parents are Monti and Shawna Outlaw. Monti is stationed at Goodfellow and is an Army Drill Sgt attached to the 344th MI brigade.
Their proud grandparents are Grandpa Nolan (Paw Paw), Grandma Michelle (Mimi) and Gigi (Great grandma Louise).
They also have a special family member that is a huge help with the kids...Lena (also known as Auntie).
Their favorite activities are family nights, where they spend Fridays at home watching movies, playing games like Connect 4 and Jenga, and having treats. They also enjoy baking favorite desserts and swimming at the YMCA. When Dad isn't on duty, he enjoys taking them downtown fishing together and practicing sports with the boys.
The parents enjoy hiking together, date nights, and traveling around San Angelo to explore the local art scene. They also love going on ice cream dates at The Last Scoop, which serves the most delicious ice cream they’ve ever had. San Angelo has been very welcoming to the entire family and they consider it a gem.
They feel being stationed in a close-knit community that feels like family is truly a blessing when their loved ones are far away.
Operation Paperback
Operation Paperback is a non-profit organization founded in 1999 whose purpose is to send paperback books to military members and their families. Since the beginning, over 19,000 books have been sent to more than 30 countries. Volunteers in all 50 states participate in this effort.
The Friends of the Tom Green County Library have been volunteer members of Operation Paperback for over 20 years. Every other month, sometimes every month, the Friends send donated books to service members. Since January 2024, 418 books have been sent to over 30 personnel. Books sent are donations from the public. Monetary donations from patrons of the Friends book sales pay for postage for the books sent.
Individuals, as well as organizations, can register with Operation Paperback to become book-sending volunteers. Service members can register with Operation Paperback to receive books. The email address is OperationPaperback.org.
The book sale -
Friends of the Tom Green County Library will hold their last book sale of 2024 Saturday, November 2, in the basement of Stephens Central Library. The sale hours are 9 to 1. Christmas books, DVD's, etc., will be available. Our next sale will be Saturday, January 11, 2025.
The Larry Justiss Friends of the Library Bookstore
The aim of the Friends of the Tom Green County Library is to provide funds for non-county 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.
Time to Apply for Elks
Most Valuable Scholarship
The Most Valuable Student scholarship deadline is November 12th, 2024, but do not wait. Please get online at scholarships@elks.org and get started today. The scholarship is available to high school seniors who are United States Citizens.
Applicants do not need to be related to a member of the Elks. Males and Females compete separately and are judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.
The 500 national winners will be announced in late April 2025. The top 20 finalists will participate in an all-expenses paid Leadership Weekend in Chicago, May 1-4, 2025. These 20 Finalists will each receive $30,000, over four years. The remaining runners-up will receive awards of $4,000 each.
Other scholarships will be available later this year at texaselks.org/tesa-scholarships They include:
Texas Elks State Scholarship; Teenager of the Year; Eagle Scout Scholarship; Girl Scout Gold Award Scholarship; and the TESA Vocational Grant Award.
Please visit the website to view each application, and the due dates.
50 Good Deeds
I’m sure you know someone unable to entirely care for themselves - or maybe just someone that seems overwhelmed with many routine chores. You, your spouse and your children can make their life less stressful if you choose even one of these fifty good deeds for someone you feel needs help.
1. Plant some flowers or a tree.
2. Pick them up for church or help them learn to watch online.
3. Rearrange kitchen cabinets and other storage spaces for easier reaching.
4. Put new batteries in smoke detectors.
5. Cook a meal and take it to them.
6. Teach them how to order groceries online.
7. Clean high places and hard-to-reach spaces.
8. Order a great meal to be delivered.
9. Help them learn how to use Zoom or Facetime.
10. Install deadbolt locks on doors.
11. Drive them around San Angelo to see pretty sitesjust to get them out.
12. Encourage computer-savvy kids to help an older friend set up a computer and show them some simple tasks...search engine, email, photos.
13. Wash the curtains, blinds or drapes;
14. Bake some cookies for them.
15. Help clear out a closet or storage room
16. Run errands to the post office or the store.
17. Give the dog a bath.
18. Make certain they have good masks to wear for appointments, etc.
19. Make sure the house has a sturdy stepstool preferably one with handrails.
20. Help choose the best emergency response system for a friend or family member in case they fall.
21. Buy them a new pair of tennis shoes.
22. Shop for groceries for them.
23. Offer help with high-tech appliance questions, such as how to set the dvd or program the coffee maker.
24. Install at least two grab bars in the bath.
25. Sing songs to them from the front yard.
26. Put a rubber bath mat or rubber strips in the bath or shower.
27. Introduce a neighbor to "Talking Books," the free federally funded program to help visually impaired people. Call 1-202-707-5100 or look up www.loc.gov/nls
28. Have your kids offer to help out with some chores on the weekend.
29. Install inexpensive night lights in bathrooms.
30. Help them print and frame family photos.
31. Inspect the house for fire hazards.
32. Install raised toilet seats and/or handrails.
33. Secure doormats to the floor surface.
34. Make sure all exits/hallways are clear and easy to navigate.
35. Take them to have their vision or hearing checked.
36. Go for a walk with them.
37. Take their pet to see the vet.
38. Make sure the fireplace/furnace have been cleaned and inspected recently.
39. Help with minor auto repairs.
40. Help get a simple cell phone with larger buttons
41. Weatherize the house for winter with insulation and weather-stripping on doors and windows.
Sunday, 11/3
11 A.M. – 3 P.M.
42. Mobilize a team of handy-persons (maybe from work or church) to help make a house wheelchair-friendly. Install ramps; reposition counters and sinks to lower levels; adjust doorways.
43. Help select a scooter, cane, or walker.
44. Clean/inspect the gutters or help locate a gutter service.
45. Take trash or recycling to the curb.
46. Make an emergency survival kit for bad weather.
47. Put out a bird feeder and fill it with seed. Make additional ziplock bags full of seed that they could put out later.
48. Buy a digital picture frame that you can send photos to often.
49. Install a porch light or reflective house numbers to make it easy for emergency personnel to find the house.
50. Help find a reliable cleaning person or handman to help with chores around the house.
Military Families Month
is celebrated in November each year in the United States. The U.S. government, along with the Armed Services YMCA, established Military Families Month in 1996. Each year, the President signs a proclamation declaring November as Military Families Month. The month is a time to acknowledge the tremendous sacrifices military families make, including separation from their families and adjustments to new living situations and communities.
Upcoming...
The Veterans Parade is November 9th in San Angelo at 11 am. The theme this year is Celebrating the Military Family. Christoval will be having their 2nd annual Veterans Day Parade at 4 pm on the same day.
All Veterans Council of Tom Green County 21st Annual Thanksgiving Veterans' Dinner (to include active duty, 1st responders, and their families) is on November 17, 1-4 pm at the VFW on 125 South Browning St. Dine In or Carry Out. Anyone who would like to help please contact Marta Ramirez at mramirez@cvworkforce.org
Pearl Harbor Day Ceremony at the Courthouse Monument, December 7th at 11:55. The Seabees will be assisting.
A THANKSGIVING PRAYER FOR OUR SOLDIERS
Today we gather around the dinner table with family and friends to share good food, warm laughter, and the happy memories of Thanksgivings past. But for many families, whose loved ones serve in the Armed Forces, this year's Thanksgiving celebration will not be complete.
A familiar voice will not be heard and a chair at the table will remain empty because, they have someone far from home serving our country.
Today also, members of the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coastguard (men and women, Active Duty, Reserve and National Guard alike) will gather in mess halls or in tents across the globe as friends and comrades to enjoy the traditional Thanksgiving meal.
So, as those of us who are blessed to be with our families celebrate and give thanks, let us remember in our prayers the homes that have an empty chair at the table and also offer a special prayer of thanksgiving and ask God’s Blessings for the brave men and women of our Armed Forces, whose service and sacrifice will, we further pray, make the world a better and safer place.
And a very special prayer, dear God, for those homes that have an empty chair that will forever remain vacant and for those servicemen and women who have come back to us, may their sacrifice not have been in vain.
Free Flu Shots for Veterans at all West Texas VA Locations
West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS) offers Flu vaccinations to Veterans at all WTVAHCS locations on a walk-in basis. Protect yourself and others. Plan to get a flu shot. Speak with your VA provider about any questions or concerns.
Remember to: Get vaccinated each year. Avoid people who are sick. Sanitize your hands often. Cover coughs and sneezes.
Get your free flu shot Monday – Friday (except Federal holidays) 8:00 a.m. –3:00 p.m. No appointment is needed.
Colonel Charles and JoAnne Powell VA Clinic, 4240 Southwest Boulevard, 325-658-6138
Veterans Stand Down
Veterans Stand Down is scheduled for November 15th, 2024. The San Angelo Elks Lodge # 1880 is partnering with Military Veteran Peer Network, and the West Texas VA Health care System to hold the event from 100 to 1400 at the VFW at 125 S. Browning St in San Angelo. The event is being funded in part from an Elks National Foundation Spotlight Grant.
The Stand Down will be for Veterans in San Angelo and surrounding areas who are experiencing need for housing services and other local resource information. Cold weather items will be accessible to our Veteran population.
There will be Food, VA Services, and Resources for Veterans. Please bring a copy of your DD 214, Military ID card, or your VA ID card. If there are veterans who do not have any of these documents, please have them visit with us on November 15th, so we can assist them in acquiring the needed documents.
If you served in the United States Armed Forces, come find out what the VA, and other community resources are available to you and your family. There will be 18 different organizations to help you.
If you know of a veteran that does not have permanent housing, please let them know about this event.
For additional information, please contact Ralph Mathews at 325-653-2427, Sonia Flick at 432-288-0654, Richard Rodriguez at 325-812-5241, or Luis Martinez III at 325-513-3387.
Volunteers wishing to help set up that morning may do so beginning at 0800.
Elks Soliciting Sponsorships and Gifts for Home Away from Home Event
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.
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.
Who is a Veteran?
Answering this question is important because it helps kids understand the honorees behind the holiday. A Veteran is a former member of the armed services or military. Branches of the military include the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard, and Veterans may have served during times of war or peace.
Perhaps a member of your family is currently serving in the military. Or maybe a grandfather, aunt or distant cousin is retired from the armed forces. To get the conversation started, try to find a picture of them in uniform and explain the importance of their job to your kid.
If you know anyone who’s a veteran, consider asking them to set up a time to chat with your child. They might be willing to show them their service memorabilia, photos or stories or even wear their uniform to help your child better understand the concept of what it means to serve.
Remember, Veterans aren’t just friends and family; they’re everywhere! They don’t always wear uniforms or talk about their service, but that makes it all the more important to acknowledge them and the sacrifices they made, whether on Veterans Day or any other day.
What is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is a U.S. federal holiday that honors American veterans of all wars — whether or not they currently serve — and gives us the opportunity to show our gratitude for the sacrifices they made to protect our freedoms. Your kids might’ve noticed that Veterans Day lands on the same day every year: November 11th. That’s because it actually started out as another holiday, known as “Armistice Day.”
Armistice Day commemorated the day in 1918, when Germany and the Allied nations signed a temporary truce that became the symbolic, yet unofficial, end of World War I. (The official end of the war came about with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919.) According to the History Channel, the truce (or “armistice”) was signed “on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.” For this reason, Armistice Day was observed by many countries on or close to November 11th. In fact, this day was so important that the U.S. government declared it a legal federal holiday in 1938, “dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as ‘Armistice Day.’” In addition to its focus on peace and goodwill, it was also meant to be a day of gratitude for the sacrifices made by the veterans of that war.
In 1954, the U.S. government legally changed the name of Armistice Day to “Veterans Day,” in an effort to honor the veterans of all wars (including those of World War II and the Korean War), and not just those of World War I.
What’s the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?
Many people confuse Veterans Day and Memorial Day, but it’s an important distinction to keep in mind.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, “Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle.
"While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military — in wartime or peacetime.”
San Angelo Family Magazine thanks our VETERANS and their families for your sacrifices. We are able to continue our freedoms because of you as will future generations. If you are away from your family this Thanksgiving...please know we care. If you are a family missing someone at your dinner table at Thanksgiving...please know we care.
5 ways to teach your child about Veterans Day
In addition to looking at pictures and talking to a veteran (if possible), your little one might find that hands-on activities help them better understand the meaning behind Veterans Day and the importance of honoring our country’s veterans. Here are several options to consider:
1. Read a book: Books on a variety of topics related to Veterans Day, military families and soldiers are available for all ages. Visit the local public library or find one online.
2. Raise money: Find veteran organizations near you, figure out a fundraiser and donate the money to a local veterans group. This is a great way to help your child take action to support our veterans.
3. Talk about freedom: What freedoms do you enjoy? Discuss these with your child to help make them aware of the everyday liberties they have thanks to veterans.
4. Talk about sacrifice: Members of our military often go long periods of time away from loved ones and sometimes even miss important holidays and birthdays with their families to fight for our freedom.
5. Say 'thank you': If you and your child are out in public and see a man or woman in uniform, let your child know that it’s a nice gesture to say 'thank you.' Those two simple words can mean a lot to a service member. If you're at a coffee shop or a restaurant and feeling generous, you might also consider paying for their cup of coffee or meal.
Concho Valley Veterans Day Parade
Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 11:00am
Healing Hearts; Making Purpose in the Pain
Modeled after Compassionate Friends, a national support group for bereaved parents, we have decided to regroup. CF served our community for over 30 years and we want to honor this organization that helped us so very much.
Please join us as we celebrate the lives of our children. Our candle lighting service allows their lives to shine and be remembered.
Join us in a quiet service at St Mark’s Sanctuary for a brief service , reading, music and candle lighting. As our child’s name is read, we come forward and light a candle. As one light becomes many, we feel the hope of being understood and loved in community.
You may purchase poinsettias to gather at the front of the church and then take home after service.
You may choose to join us for fellowship and food afterwards or not. Please bring something to share if able.
As one member noted ; “Christmas can be sad and lonely.Seeking out others with shared experiences can make it just a little bit easier. Hearing our loved ones names being read, lets us know they are loved and not forgotten.”
This is a special time of healing our hearts of the same wound. Some gaping and raw, some less noticeable, we offer this special service to put our beloved children in this Christmas season.
Thank you St Mark Presbyterian Church and San Angelo Family Magazine.
November
November
What Is That Bright Light?
By Andy Oliver
Galaxies, supernovas, nebulas, comets, string of satellites -- do you ever wonder about that bright light in the night sky? Astronomy is one of the world's oldest hobbies. Since the time of Genesis "God said, Let there be lights in the heavens to divide day from night; and let them be for signs, seasons, days, and years".
Civilizations throughout history have watched the night sky intently, recording and using that information to plant crops, or move south, or sometimes just for the sake of a good storytelling. No special equipment is needed, although a modest telescope can give you a different perspective.
The San Angelo Astronomy Association has been sharing the night sky with folks since 1962; way back when local doctor Roy E. Moon built a patio on top of his house and let visitors look through his telescope. Around 1985, Angelo State opened the Planetarium and we moved our meetings over to that location. We meet as a club at 7pm on the first Monday each quarter (Feb, May, Aug, Nov). Our upcoming meeting is Nov 11th. All meetings and events are free and open to the public.
The members of Angelo Astronomy want to share our view of the night sky, so we host events called “Star Parties.” We set up telescopes at places like the State Park just so you can get a closer look at God’s creation. We also partner with the Stephens Central Library downtown for some of our events.
The observing deck just off the Sugg Community Room on the third floor is very visitor friendly, even for our less mobile guests. We want everyone to be a part of our parties!
I would like to point out here that Astronomy and Astrology are two different studies. Astronomy looks at our universe scientifically at objects we can observe and measure. Astrology is more of a pseudoscience that proposes human affairs and relationships can be discerned by the movement of celestial objects. My personal belief is that God created the universe by Intelligent Design, but I invite you to come observe at any of our events and draw your own conclusion.
Some of you may be aware we had some memorable events this past year. The “Ring of Fire” annular eclipse October 2023 (several thousand folks gathered around town for that one). And the total solar eclipse on April 8th. San Angelo was not in the path of totality, but close enough to get a good show.
Coming up in November is the annual Leonid Meteor Shower, which might not be great because the last supermoon of 2024 is happening at the same time. But Jupiter and Venus will be shining bright, and the sky is full of wonder. I hope I catch you looking up!
FMI: AngeloAstronomy.rocks.
If you asked your child what they are thankful for you might get the ‘I don’t know’ answer. Teach your kids how to be thankful! Sometimes they just need a little jump start to get their hearts focused on gratitude. Thankfulness is an attitude we model and teach, day in and day out. But it’s time to be an intentional parent! I think you (and your kids) will discover they are thankful for so much!!
Carolyn Miller, San Angelo Family Magazine
Thanksgiving Questions to Ask Your Kids
- Who is the funniest person at this table? What’s a funny story about them?
- If you could invite someone famous (living or dead) to Thanksgiving dinner, who would it be?
- If you could completely change up the traditional Thanksgiving dinner menu, what would you serve instead?
- If you could only have one thing on this Thanksgiving table today, which thing would it be? Can you guess what other people here would pick?
- Do you know the story of any of the foods at this table? Do you think your parents ate them when they were growing up?
- What are you thankful for that your teacher has done? Can you think of a way to say thank you?
- Who has been kind to you in your life? What did that person do to show kindness?
- What is something fun you do with your parents that makes you really happy?
- What do you love doing as a family? Would you like to do more of it this year?
- When do you feel most loved?
- What is the tallest thing you’re thankful for?.. the smallest…etc.
- How many ways can you think of to act out your thankful heart?
- Can you name everything you’re thankful for that’s the color red?.. blue…etc.
- What would you imagine your parents would be most thankful for?
Thanksgiving Conversation Starters!!
- When is your favorite time to give thanks? (It might be a great time to teach them to be thankful during the day - not just or bedtime)
Some questions provoke deeper thought, add to kids’ Thanksgiving vocabulary, or simply lead to great story sharing.
- What would you tell your great-grandchildren about life this year?
- The Native Americans taught the Pilgrims how to grow corn and make maple syrup. What is something you’re glad you learned thi year?
- What is the first Thanksgiving you remember?
- There’s a Thanksgiving saying by Maya Angelou: “Be present in all things and thankful for all things." What do you think this
- If you could thank your parents for something, what would it be?
Thanksgiving Questions to Ask Kids Over the Phone or Zoom
- Sometimes, you can’t be with your friends and family over Thanksgiving. Connecting with kids over Zoom or on the phone can be challenging, but these questions - can help with your virtual Thanksgiving.
- If you think about all the electronic devices you use in your life, which one are you most thankful for? Why?
- What are three things you couldn’t live without?
- If you had $100 to give someone who needed help, who would you help?
- What is something in the room with you that you are thankful for? Tell me about it.
- Think about the ways we connect with each other. Which ways are you thankful for?
Thanksgiving Questions for Kids to Ask Their Grandparents or Older Relatives
- How did you celebrate Thanksgiving when you were my age?
- What was your favorite thing about where you grew up?
- What about my mom/dad drove you crazy when she/he was a kid?
- If you could live in any decade of your life again, which would it be?
- If you had an extra hour in every day, how would you spend it?
- Which is your favorite month, and why?
Thanksgiving Questions to Ask Kids You Don’t Know Well
If you’re a guest at another family’s Thanksgiving dinner or you want to try to make conversation with your great niece or nephew during the meal, these open-ended questions can help.
- What is your favorite Thanksgiving tradition?
- Can you remember the last time something really funny happened? What was it?
- If you had to pick only one food to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
- What has made you happiest in your life so far?
- What is your favorite book? Why are you thankful for it?
How will you be intentional about thankfulness this season? At its heart, Thanksgiving is about showing gratitude. Asking the right questions can bring this theme to the forefront of kids’ minds and teach them how to show appreciation in words. All of us at San Angelo Family Magazine wish you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving. (And remember to invite someone to your table that might be alone this holidaythey will add to the fun!!! And will make memories that will last a lifetime!)
Calling all littles between the ages of 6 and 11! This November 8-9, the Brooks & Bates Theatre at 82 Gillis St. in San Angelo is transforming into a land of fun, friendship, and celebrating EVERYTHING sheep! Yep, you read that right –SHEEP! San Angelo has a super-cool wool history, and this pageant is gonna be the biggest WOOLY celebration ever!
Here's what to expect at the Mini Miss Wool Pageant:
• Epic Opening Party: The fun starts on FRIDAY NIGHT with an opening reception for pageant contestants. Delish food, refreshing drinks, and entertainment that'll make you wanna shout "Mutton!" (that's a sheep thing ).
• Wool-tastic Activities: Have you ever PETTED a giant ball of yarn? NO?! Well, at the Mini Miss Wool Pageant, you can do just that – PLUS tons of other sheeptacular displays to learn all about San Angelo's woolly past and learn about the original Miss Wool Pageant of the 1950s.
• Shine Like a Star: On the big day, gals, will be the center of attention on a REAL STAGE at the Brooks & Bates Theatre showing off talent, style, and confidence –it's time to sparkle brighter than a disco ball!
Do you know someone who’s ready to join the wooly fun?
Registration is OPEN NOW. Contact info@dtsa.org for a copy of the Registration Form and guidelines. https://www.downtownsanangelo.com/
We can't wait to see you at the Mini Miss Wool Pageant!
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/
November 2
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
11:00 am to 01:00 pm
November Around San Angelo
Johnson’s Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens 4989 FM 1223
Join us for Dia de los Muertos: food trucks, cake walk, face painting, balloon animals, and a performance by The Lake View Mariachi
November 07
Night of Hope
Cactus Hotel: 12 E Twohig Ave
7:00 pm - 12:00 am
We are excited to announce La Esperanza Clinic’s Third Annual Night of Hope on November 7th at the Cactus Hotel. The evening will feature a delicious meal by City Café and Bakery, an open bar, an exciting auction, and captivating entertainment by The Nightowls! This event is a perfect opportunity to learn more about our clinic while enjoying a night of fun. For more information, or to purchase your tickets, please visit esperanzahealth.org/nightofhope
November 9
3rd Tamale Fest
125 W Twohig
11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual Tamale Fest San Angelo on November 9th, 2024! This exciting event is a celebration of our local culture, food, and community, with plenty of tamales, music, and fun for all ages. This year’s event will feature performances from Mariachi Los Caciques and Grupo Animo, bringing vibrant live music to set the stage for an unforgettable day.
Tamale Judging Contest
Tamale Eating Contest – Think you can handle the heat? Compete for bragging rights and see who can eat the most tamales!
Delicious tamale tastings from local vendors Artisan market and cultural showcases Family-friendly activities and games Come support local vendors, enjoy live entertainment, and savor the rich flavors of our community. Whether you’re a tamale enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to spend the day, Tamale Fest San Angelo has something for everyone!
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
November 8-9
Mini Miss Wool Pageant
5:00 PM
Come join us on Friday & Saturday November 8th & 9th, 2024 for the Downtown San Angelo Mini Miss Wool Pageant. The pageant is a tribute to the original Miss Wool Pageant of America that was held right here in San Angelo several decades ago. The event will be held at The Brooks & Bates Theatre at 82 Gillis St. in San Angelo, TX. Friday’s activities include food & drinks, live music, and educational displays, with the Pageant occurring on Saturday evening. The pageant will feature two age groups for girls aged 6-8 and 9-11.
November 16
Greek Bake Sale
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church 801 Montecito, San Angelo. (see page 7)
November 16
LakeView Bible Church Annual Craft Fair 4825 Grape Creek Road, 8am - 4pm
Come shop and eat some good food from local craft and food vendors! Jewelry, jam, artwork, avon, baked goods, home decor, and much more. Vendor spaces available. Contact: Aurora Rodriguez 325-2774728
November 16
Gobble Gobble the Cactus - 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.
November 16 & 17
2024 Christmas in San Angelo
Foster Communications Coliseum, 50 E 43rd St
Event is an array of vendors showcasing and selling home and garden decor, woodcrafts, candles, art, wreaths, fashionable accessories, unique gifts, floral designs, jewelry, boutique clothing, and much more. Also enjoy live music and gourmet foods. Free admission. Hours: Sat 10am-5pm. Sun 10am-4pm
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. Please do not engage with or pay money to anyone else claiming to be the vendor coordinator for this event, they are scammers.
November 23 - December 23
Paintbrush Alley Market Days
Paintbrush Alley
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
What better time to get a start on your Christmas shopping then at Paintbrush Alley Market Days?! Come out and shop local artists, makers and vendors at Paintbrush Alley Market Days. This is a pet friendly, family friendly event with food trucks, live music, children’s activities and more! This event is completely FREE to the public.
November 22 - 24
Murphey Performance Hall
Elf , the Musical is a box-office-record-breaker that combines vintage comic style and high-energy contemporary music to deliver jolly holiday entertainment for the whole family! Elf the musical features songs and dances that will keep you laughing, toe tapping, and get you ready for the holidays! One Christmas Eve, a young orphan crawls into Santa’s bag of toys and is unknowingly transported to the North Pole. Buddy the Elf grows up unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities make him face the truth. With Santa’s blessing, Buddy travels to New York City to discover his true identity and find his birth father. Upon learning that his father is on the naughty list, and that his half-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy becomes determined to win over his family and help New York rediscover its Christmas spirit. For those looking for something to get into the holiday spirit, look no further than San Angelo Broadway Academy to feel sparklejollytwinklejingly! FMI: http://www.sabroadwayacademy.org/
Remember to include the elderly in your fun~~~
Elks Annual Hoop Shoot on December 14th at YMCA (save the date)
Calling all San Angelo area kids ages 8-13 to participate in the San Angelo Elks Hoop Shoot (Free Throw Contest).
This contest will be held on Saturday December 14th at the YMCA at 353 S. Randolph Street in San Angelo. Registration will begin at 1:00 pm with the contest beginning at 1:30.
Boys & Girls will compete separately in three age groups: 8-9, 10-11, and 12-13. If you will be eight on April 1st, 2025 and will not turn 14 prior to April 1st, you are eligible to complete.
One boy and one girl from each age group will advance to the district contest in San Antonio in January. The Elks will help with travel expenses. Winners from the District Contest will advance to the State Tournament in Carrolton in February, and those winners will advance to the Area Contest.
Winners from the Area Contest will advance to the National Contest in Late April 2025. Winners from the National Contest will have their names inscribed in the Basketball Hall of Fame.
There are young people in the San Angelo area that can win this contest, so please get them to this event on December 14th at the San Angelo YMCA..
For more information please call 325-227-6920.
And encourage your kids to try! Make it about the experience and how much fun you can have as a family.
Giving back is important all the time, but especially this month we have given you ideas throughout the magazine of what that might look like for you and your family. Really take a moment to make a concrete plan on how you might accomplish this during the Thanksgiving season. Teach your kids. Involve the elderly. Include our military as we give thanks for our veterans and for the Military Family Month we celebrate throughout November.
We are very committed to our readers and to our advertisers. We spend all month searching for ways to improve your quality of life. Sometimes that is through our articles. But the only way we continue bringing you this magazine each month free is through our advertisers. We have worked so hard to keep our rates steady - even through some difficult years like the months when events were shut down due to covid. We have continued to offer the same rates throughout paper increases, printing increases, shipping increases, distribution increases and everything many of us are dealing with from a business standpoint.
After 20 years we are announcing a price increase effective with our January issue. To help everyone adjust to this, we will lock in our existing rate to anyone committing to a six month contract beginning with either the December or January issue. Please understand we have continued to work with all businesses whether you are large or small, for profit or non-profit. We celebrate our 30 anniversary in your community next year. 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 around 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 want to make 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!!
One of the bits of feedback we get that makes my heart so happy is when readers ask us to repeat an article!! One example is our article on Blessing Bags (see page 22). This has appeared in previous issues of the magazine, but because you actually made this happen and shared your stories with me, we are running it again. Its a ripple effect you are creating by helping others!! Thank you!!
Everyone that contributes to this publication each month is so thankful this Thanksgiving season and we hope you and your family stay healthy and happy! If you know someone that will be alone, please consider changing what that looks like in your home. Maybe its always been just the grandparents, relatives, kids and grandkids at the table. This year you might make someone whole attitude toward life change. Be kind.
Carolyn Nored Miller
Thanksgiving and the month of November are great times to think of better ways to help others.
Blessing Bags are wonderful to keep on hand in your car, so if you are in a situation where you find someone in need, you have the bag right there to hand to them. This is a thoughtful way to demonstrate and teach your kids the act of giving in the face of a need instead of just driving by or walking away without responding.
The bags could contain all sorts of necessities...most of which we take for granted. Maybe as your family gets together for the holidays you could pack the bags and everyone could take some to hand out. You could make piles of the items "buffet style" around a large table, and then as you fill up the bags maybe say a prayer for the recipients. This is something every age group can help put together. You could even include some fun things like a card game (Uno, Go Fish, etc.)
This Thanksgiving stay mindful of the plight of others and lean into greater generosity.
Here are some items to choose from to give you a start in making your bags:
1 gallon Ziploc bag
Water/sports drink
Can opener
Throat lozenges
Hand sanitizer
Hand or face lotion
Sunscreen
Deodorant
Packaged wet wipes
Lip balm
Sanitary napkins
Bandaids
Nail clippers
Antibacterial ointment
Mouth wash
Soap
Shampoo
Small selection of ready-to-eat protein rich food such as:
Cheese and crackers
Power bar
Tuna in a bag (no cans requiring an opener)
Plastic utensils and napkin
Washcloth
Bible verse or thoughtful notes
Gloves
Beanie
Resource/assistance list
Socks
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Hand warmer
Small hairbrush/comb
Food gift card
Plastic rain poncho
Small flashlight
BLESSInG BAGS
Many of us count abundant blessings in our lives, such as food, family, friends and conveniences, while so many others around the world go without the very basics. As you hand out these bags, please do so with kindness and remember we do not know their story. My family lost everything in a tornado when I was young and these basics were a blessing that first night. Every story is unique.
Happy Thanksgiving to each of you...Carolyn
Nored Miller, Owner/Publisher of San Angelo Family Magazine
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 them at volunteer@mealsfortheelderly.org
Tell them San Angelo Family Magazine sent you!!
