Cohen (age 5) and Jackson (age 9) Carter are helping us celebrate November!!
Their parents are Lane and Paige Carter. Their grandparents are Hal and Dana Hoffman, Tim and Candy Worley and William Carter.
Jackson enjoys playing baseball and watching the ASU Rams baseball team. He also enjoys deer hunting, building Lego projects, and drawing. Cohen enjoys playing with their family dogs, Lexi and Penny and being outside, coloring, painting, and helping water their flowers and grass.
By Yukio A. Kuniyuki, Youth Exchange Officer, San Angelo Rotary Club
Imagine being seventeen and stepping off a plane in a country where everything—language, food, even the rhythm of daily life—is new. Now imagine welcoming a student from halfway around the world into your own home and sharing your own culture with them.
A Journey That Shapes a
For the students who embark on a long-term exchange, the experience is nothing short of life changing. Spending a year abroad—living with host families, attending local schools, and immersing themselves in a new culture—teaches lessons no classroom ever could.
As many alumni like to say, “Exchange isn’t a year in your life; it’s a life in a year.” During a long-term exchange, students may live with as many as three host families over the course of the school year, giving them a deeper perspective on daily life and family culture in their host country. They often return home fluent in another language, confident, adaptable, and ready to see the world with empathy and curiosity.
For those who can’t commit to a full year abroad, the short-term exchange offers a perfect alternative. These exchanges take place during the summer and are true “family-to-family” exchanges. A student from one
family spends a month living abroad, then the families switch for the second month. Even thirty days in another country can be transformative, offering fresh opportunities for travel, cultural discovery, and lifelong friendship.
Opening Your Home to the World Rotary Youth Exchange isn’t just for those who travel—it’s also for families who open their homes and hearts to an international student. Host families often describe the experience as “gaining another child.” Parents and siblings share traditions, holidays, and everyday moments that bridge cultural gaps and build lasting memories. Whether it’s teaching your exchange student to bake cookies, introducing them to your favorite local foods, or learning how to say “good morning” in their language, every day becomes an adventure in global friendship.
And hosting isn’t limited to one type of household. Empty nesters, families with teenagers, families with small children, families without children, and even single parents can all make wonderful hosts. The main requirements are simple: offer a room, a study space, three meals a day—and your time. The best part? You’re never on your own. Rotary’s local volunteers are always available to guide and support you every step of the way.
The Ripple Effect
The impact of one exchange extends far beyond a single student or family. Communities become more welcoming and connected. Friendships stretch across oceans. And sometimes, years later, families still gather across continents to celebrate weddings, holidays,
The Most Valuable Student Scholarship deadline is November 12th. The application must be completed on line by that date in order to be considered for the Scholarship. . 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 Academics, Leadership, Financial need, and Service.
The 500 national winners will be announced in late March 2026. There will be 480 $4,000 scholarships spread over four years. The top 20 Scholarship winners will be awarded $30,000 each over four years. These 20 finalists will participate in an all-expenses paid Leadership Weekend in Chicago, on April 12th-15th, 2026.
Please apply at enf.elks.org/MVS.
Other scholarships are available at texaselks.org/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 for each application.
and milestones together. As one host parent shared, “We thought we were doing something kind for a student—but really, it changed our whole family.”
How to Get Involved
If your teen has a spirit of adventure, or if your family loves learning about new cultures, consider joining the Rotary Youth Exchange experience—by studying abroad, hosting, or volunteering. You’ll discover that the world isn’t as big as it seems—and that kindness, curiosity, and connection speak every language. After all, when you open your home—or your heart—you open the world.
The Application Process
To learn more, contact the San Angelo Rotary Club or email Rotary.Youth.Exchange.SanAngelo@gmail.com
For long-term exchanges, planning should begin in 9th grade, with applications due September 15 of the year prior to the student’s 11th-grade year.
Short-term exchanges are more flexible, but share the same September 15 application deadline.
Once accepted, families and students participate in three outbound orientation sessions with the Rotary District Youth Exchange Team between January and May to prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.
Note: My daughter, Kyla, was an exchange student to France when she was at Central and it was an amazing experience. I hope you consider this! Carolyn Miller/San Angelo Family Magazine
Celebrate with us through photos by Tim L. Vasquez, Marketing Director for San Angelo Family Magazine. This new section will highlight attendees of various events and functions we attend in San Angelo and the Concho Valley. For more photos, please visit San Angelo Magazine’s facebook page! The magazine offers so many great events and happenings you can be a part of each month so get out and enjoy!! If you have an event for December, please send your info to family@wcc.net
Ballet San Angelo wants to perform to YOUR original compositions!
This spring, Ballet San Angelo will produce Beyond Ballet: Experimental Works in Music & Dance. This unique production goes beyond traditional ballet by showcasing original music submitted by musicians and paired with choreographed works by the talented dancers of Ballet San Angelo. The result is a night full of creative energy, where music and dance merge in fresh, exciting ways.
Eight to twelve musical pieces will be chosen and paired with Ballet San Angelo’s professional staff and upper level dancers, who will craft original choreography inspired by each song to be performed live in the Black Box Theatre on April 10th and 11th.
Entry requirements:
• Entries must be in MP3 or Wav format
• All music genres and mediums will be accepted
• Pieces must not exceed 3 minutes.
• Applicants may submit a maximum of 3 pieces.
• Submission deadline is January 5th, 2026 Learn how to apply at balletsanangelo.org/call4music
ABOUT THE SHOW Ballet San Angelo is passionate about bringing original, creative works to the Concho Valley. Beyond Ballet takes this passion one step farther by showcasing not only original choreography, but original music as well. Ballet San Angelo is much more than just ballet—it is a testament to the infinite creative potential of dance. Beyond Ballet exemplifies how movement and music can bring people together, offering a platform for emotional expression and connection. This production emphasizes that ballet is not confined to one style or form, but is constantly evolving, embracing new ideas, and pushing the boundaries of what dance can communicate. It’s a chance to witness a new generation of dancers and musicians come together to create something truly unique.
Performance Dates: April 10th & 11th
Location: The Black Box Theatre - San Angelo Performing Arts Center - 82 Gillis St Ticket Information Box Office: 82 Gillis St | Tues-Fri - 10am-6pm - 325 284 3825 balletsanangelo.org/tickets
When my son Damien was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, our world changed overnight. Suddenly, I wasn’t just a mom—I was a medical researcher, a case manager, an advocate, and a fighter. I learned quickly that raising a child with a disability doesn’t come with a handbook. It comes with insurance denials, endless appointments, equipment costs that make your stomach drop, and moments of quiet tears in the car after holding it together all day.
But it also comes with deep love, resilience, and a fierce determination to make sure your child—and every child—has access to the world around them. That’s where AccessAbility First Foundation began. Not from a grand idea or a boardroom meeting, but from one mom’s frustration and faith that things could be better. I looked around and realized that so many families like mine were facing the same struggles—battling the system for basic needs, feeling isolated, and wishing there was someone who simply said, “Me too.”
So, we built that place.
A Foundation Rooted in Real-Life Needs
AccessAbility First Foundation serves families of children with disabilities and special needs across West Texas. Our mission is simple: to bridge the gaps that families face—financially, emotionally, and socially—so they never have to walk this journey alone. We help families access essential items that insurance often doesn’t cover—things like adaptive beds, medical equipment, and vehicle modifications so a child can travel safely with their power chair.
But it’s not just about meeting physical needs. It’s about restoring hope and connection.
That’s why we host inclusive and sensory-friendly community events—everything from Easter egg hunts and family bingo nights to art shows and movie nights—where families can show up just as they are. No judgment. No stares. Just joy. For many of our families, these are the only events they feel comfortable attending, and that’s what makes them so special.
One of the biggest things families tell us is how lonely it can feel when the rest of the world doesn’t understand what life looks like behind the scenes. That’s why we started our monthly parent support groups, held in cozy coffee shops and family-friendly spaces, where moms and dads can finally exhale. It’s a safe place to share stories, cry, laugh, and remember that they aren’t alone.
We also provide meals for families at these gatherings and at our larger events—because sometimes, the simple act of not having to cook dinner that night can make all the difference.
And when we say “community,” we mean everyone. AccessAbility First isn’t just for families with special needs—it’s for anyone who believes that inclusion makes us stronger. We’ve seen local businesses, volunteers, and donors step up in incredible ways—sponsoring events, donating supplies, and wearing our shirts proudly to spread awareness.
Right now, our biggest dream is coming to life: an indoor accessible playground and sensory-friendly activity center designed for ALL children. Imagine a place where kids of every ability can play side by side—where a child in a wheelchair doesn’t have to sit on the sidelines, and a child who needs a quiet corner has a space designed just for them. This center will be a haven for families—a place for connection, therapy, homeschooling, and community.
We’ve already raised over $16,000 toward this project, and every shirt sold, every monthly donor who joins—it all helps bring that dream closer to reality.
AccessAbility First Foundation isn’t just an organization. It’s a lifeline built on shared experiences and real emotions. It’s the mom who finally gets the adaptive stroller she’s been praying for. It’s the dad who shows up to a support group and leaves feeling lighter. It’s the siblings who finally have a place to play together without worry.
When families come to us, we don’t just see needs—we see stories, strength, and purpose. And we meet them with empathy, understanding, and the words we all need to hear sometimes: “You’re not alone. We’re in this together.”
To learn how to get help or how you can make a difference, go to https://accessabilityfirst.org or ... scan their QR code.
Article by by Jordan DiiBon, founder of AccessAbility First Foundation
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.
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.
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 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.'
Concho Valley Veterans Day Parade
Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 11:00am
San Angelo Elks Lodge # 1880 will honor all Military Veterans by serving a Chopped Brisket Sandwich lunch to all Veterans and their families. Meal will be served from 11:30-14:00 (beginning right after the Veterans Parade), or until all meals are served, at the local Elks Lodge at 2121 S. Chadbourne.
Please join as we salute all of the Veterans for their service.
Modeled after Compassionate Friends, a national support group for bereaved parents. Healing Hearts invites you to our Candlelight Memorial Service at St. Mark Presbyterian Church, 2506 Johnston St., San Angelo, TX on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, 6:30pm
Please join us, along with your families, as we celebrate the lives of our children. Our service allows their lives to shine and their names to be remembered.
The quiet service includes music, responsive readings, and a short message. 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 buy a poinsettia to gather at the front of the church and then take home after the service.
You may choose to join us for fellowship and food afterwards or not. Please bring something to share if able.
Quote “Christmas can be sad and lonely. Seeking others with shared experiences can make it a bit easier. Hearing our loved ones’ names being read, lets us know they are loved and not forgotten.
We offer this special service to all of us healing loss, new or old, calloused over or raw, to help us heal.
Thank you to St. Mark Presbyterian Church and San Angelo Family Magazine.
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
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
I’m sure you know someone unable to entirely care for themselves - or maybe just someone that seems overwhelmed with many routine chores. You and your family can make their life less stressful if you choose even one of these fifty good deeds for someone you feel needs help.
This is the month of being thankful - share your good health in a positive way!
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 sites - just 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.
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 handyman to help with chores around the house.
(tell them you saw it in San Angelo Family Magazine)
Ages newborn to senior in high school. For a new, better way to send SNAPSHOTS, go to our website to submit (safmtx.com). It’s EASY!!!!
Or email us at family@wcc.net. Include child’s name/age, parent’s name, contact phone number or email, permission to print child’s photo/name, your favorite caption. Please submit by November 15, 2025 to be considered for the December issue.
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.
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 Pearl Lions Club, 2nd & 4th Mondays, 6pm at the Lions Eyeglass Recycling Center at 27 W. Concho Ave, FMI lionpgonzalez@gmail.com or 325-227-1296
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 Cancer Companions Support Group - 2nd and 4th Saturdays, 10:30am, St. Luke UMC, 2781 W Ave. N., CVCancerCompanions@gmail.com or (325) 268-1773
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, 3:00p.m., locations alternate between Baptist Retirement Community and Encompass Hospital FMI Joan Countess at 325-647-0658. 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
East Angelo Lions Club, every Wednesday at 11:55 for lunch at Rio Concho, 401 Rio Concho Dr., San Angelo in the Library. Jerry Wilson, Sec 325-234-7662 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 Hope Gathering - 3rd Monday, Christian support group for widows. FMI contact Sharlene Miller at sanangelohopegathering@hopegathering.org and visit www.hopegathering.org
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 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 Rotary Club of San Angelo, every Friday except for holidays, noon to 1pm, River Terrace, 880 W Avenue D. New guests are free, members pay dues and lunch. FMI call (325) 656-2612 or email sarotary@aol.com.
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. 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's Sexual Assault survivor group (Open Arms), Mondays, 5:30-6:30pm, 113 N. Harrison St. . All women survivors over the age of 18 are welcome. A spanish speaking group is available as well. FMI 325-655-2000
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/
2025 San Angelo Family Magazine www.safmtx.com
Larry Justiss Friends of the Tom Green County Library
Our next sale will be Saturday, November 8
The sale will be held in the basement of Stephens Central Library at Irving and Beauregard. The sale begins at 9:00 and ends at 1:00. Tell them you saw it in San Angelo Family Magazine!!!
This sale will feature Christmas items and will be the last sale of 2025. Sales will resume in January 2026.
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. Operation Paperback is a non-profit organization founded in 1999 whose purpose is to
Music Series: Opus One by Trio Aurora
9,
from
Clay Studio
PM Free Family Day: Nanotechnology November
November 15 from 10 AM–2 PM Below the Brim: Discussing the Global Language of Headwear
November 20, 2025 from 5:30 PM–7 PM
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
- 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?
- 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?
- 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?
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!)
Shannon is helping our kids
ve and grow up
Reagan Elementary is dedicated to creating positive relationships that engage and inspire students to become lifelong learners. Shannon partners closely with local elementary schools like Reagan on their annual K ids' Marathon event to encourage students to form healthy exercise habits early in life. For more than 13 years, the K id’s Marathon has encouraged kids to celebrate fitness while providing games and resources to suppor t family activity throughout the year. The collaboration of teachers like Danny Munoz helps make this lasting impact on students across the San Angelo area. Together, we can inspire lifelong wellness.
Shannon is proud to be part of our common thread. Learn more at shannonhealth.com/commonthread