65 minute read
Dinner’s Ready
by Kimberley Carter Spivey
It’s that time of year! Fall is in full swing. When it comes to the best autumn dinners, it’s all about comfort food meals that are warm, cozy, and good for the soul to savor and enjoy with loved ones. Fall brings about change, and food is no exception. And let’s face it, you can’t go wrong with a quick, comforting casserole. If you’re looking for a hearty and filling meal for the season, local mom Lynn Heisler shares a delicious dish your entire family will enjoy.
Lynn has lived in Slapout, AL, her entire life, and she’s been married to her husband, Josh, for 19 years. They have an 18-year-old daughter, Kayden, who attends Faulkner University, a 15-yearold son, Karson, enrolled at Penn Foster online, and a bonus son, Julius Jackson, 19 years old, working as an electrician apprentice.
Lynn attended Trenholm Technical College and has worked in the dental field for 22 years. She received her Dental Assistant Certification in June of 2021. Lynn worked 12 years as an assistant, and in June of 2012, she graduated from the Alabama Dental Hygiene Program and obtained her registered dental hygiene license.
Growing up, her mom made three meals daily, and her family enjoyed sitting around the table, savoring every bite and bonding. She prepared several holiday meals yearly: New Year’s, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Lynn shares, “Our home was for family, friends, and food. We didn’t get together every Sunday as life was busy, but holidays were special.” Her mom inspires her to bring her family together for traditions. The Heisler family enjoys eating dinner together at home four times a week. The nights they have dinner, they play Phase 10, Uno, or Dominos. Lynn lovingly shares, “I’m blessed to have children who don’t mind staying home and bonding as a family.” The mom of three admits she never had a passion for cooking when her children were young. Her time consisted of soccer, baseball, football, and being cub scout master for her son’s cub scout pack, 184. So, during that time, they ate fast food, concession food, and at their favorite Mexican restaurants.
As Lynn got older and things slowed down, she appreciated preparing meals in the kitchen for her family. So she started looking for new recipes on Pinterest. “I love browsing and finding new recipes, so we have different meals every night. I look for ingredients everyone likes, and by doing so, it encourages everyone to come to the table.”
A family favorite is Blackeyed Pea Casserole. Lynn has mastered this recipe, and she finds it to be ideal for the fall or holiday season. Lynn shared it will be on their Thanksgiving menu, as requested.
Black-Eyed Pea Casserole
Ingredients
2 cans black-eyed peas (do not drain) 2 cups cooked rice (used instant white rice) 1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 roll of mild sausage 2 cups of shredded cheese
Salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook sausage on the stovetop until browned. Cook two cups of rice. In a large bowl, add rice, peas, cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of cheese, sausage, and seasoning to taste. Mix well and pour the mixture into a 9 X 13 casserole dish. Baked covered for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and uncover. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake for additional 5 to 10 minutes. Enjoy the dish by itself, or add a side.
Kimberley Carter Spivey is a freelance writer, blogger, author, and entrepreneur. When she’s not working as an Instructional Systems Designer and copy-editor on Maxwell AFB, she’s busy freelancing, blogging, or toiling away at her next book. Her debut book Bloom: How to Get from Good Enough to a Life You Love can be purchased on Amazon and girlyouwrite.com.
Whether you’re a Black Friday enthusiast or hater, there are ample ways to cash in on super holiday savings throughout the season. So follow these tips for deep discounts on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and beyond.
you want to shop at least a couple of weeks in advance. Then visit each store’s website, and subscribe to their email list. Early signup will ensure you receive all promotional emails for the season’s big Black Friday and Cyber Monday events as well as ongoing savings right on through Christmas Eve.
Buy discounted gift cards. Visit Raise.com, and order discounted gift cards for the stores you know you’ll purchase from. You can use these cards to buy sale and special-buy items for added savings. The caveat, make sure the gift cards are for stores you’ll definitely shop at, so you don’t blow your savings. Discounted gift cards also make great gifts.
Begin collecting Black Friday and Cyber Monday
deals that show up in your newspaper, mailbox, and email. Also, visit your favorite stores online a few days in advance to see what kind of deals they’ll offer. Print any coupons you find. Then store them together in a safe place.
Organize for the big day. Once you’ve collected all the deals, sort through, and match them up to your holiday shopping list. Compare deals, and determine when the sales or doorbusters begin and if there’ll be limited quantities. Then strategize. If you can’t stand in line for hours for a limited quantity doorbuster, skip it, and focus on other deals that are easier to fetch.
Prepare a ‘second-best’ list. You can’t be everywhere
at once, and you’re sure to miss a deal or two. So prepare for that possibility and know where to go and what to look for as an alternative. Watch for early bird freebies. Many stores offer free gifts to the first 25 or 100 people in their store. It’s true, there are some pretty nice prizes to be had. But many will require you to arrive well before the crack of dawn and spend hours waiting in line. Before you succumb to these lures, consider whether it’s worth the risk of losing out on savings elsewhere.
Black Friday isn’t always the best day for hot
bargains. So do your research. Stores tout their Black Friday deals to get consumers into a buying frenzy early in the season. Some even offer their super deals on Thanksgiving evening and start to reduce prices on Wednesday. Keep in mind, all those Black Friday deals can also often be found online on Cyber Monday. In fact, many hot deals, and some better deals stretch well into December.
Shop late in the day. If you’re like many, you wouldn’t even consider shopping on Black Friday simply because of the chaos. But on Black Friday, the vast majority of shoppers start at the crack of dawn or earlier. By 5 p.m., early birds are exhausted, and malls and stores are dead quiet. So Black Friday evening is a great time to get in some peaceful, early shopping with plenty of great deals still going on.
Shop online. This is another option if you don’t want to participate in the madhouse. Many stores offer the same deals online as they do in their stores. In fact, many online stores don’t even have storefronts. Keep in mind, supplies are often limited, even online. So by the time you reach checkout, an item in your basket might be sold out. If you’re shopping for multiple items from a store, do multiple checkouts, so the items in your basket don’t disappear while you shop.
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Arrange your finances in advance. If you intend to pay
by credit card, plan well in advance, so the credit is available to you. Use your credit cards that offer cash back or reward points to increase your savings. If paying with a debit card, check your balance before you head out to avoid an unwelcome surprise. Also, avoid carrying cash in chaotic crowds because of the increased risk of pickpockets and purse-snatchers.
Leave the kids at home. The chaos of the holiday shopping season, especially Black Friday, poses risks to children. Although the chance is slim, there’s the potential risk of trampling by crazed crowds on Black Friday. Your child could also get lost among the mob. Besides, shopping for long hours is stressful and exhausting for kids. Not to mention, it’ll increase your own stress level and deplete your energy.
Avoid carts. On Black Friday, carry shopping bags or totes instead unless you plan to buy heavy items. Carts will slow you down through crowds that are unwilling to budge for you.
Hold off on toy purchases. Black Friday doesn’t offer the best deals on toys. The first week of December usually provides much more significant savings on these items.
Use social media for extra
savings. Many retailers offer exclusive coupons and discounts to people who ‘like’ them on Facebook or other social media. Check the social media accounts of the stores you plan to shop at. Check on return policies. Most major retailers have liberal return policies. But not all. So do your homework before you make purchases. Also, ask for gift receipts to make exchanges and returns easy for your gift recipients.
Avoid impulse buying. Many shoppers’ savings go right down the drain because they grab unnecessary ‘great buys’ at the spur of the moment. So prepare yourself mentally for the temptation before you head out.
Get extra savings with instant store credit. Most
stores offer 10 to 25% savings by opening a store credit card at checkout. If you pay your charges off immediately and don’t use it for unnecessary purchases, it’s well worth the savings. Otherwise, the long-term cost of interest will exceed the savings you gained.
Make sure a sale is really a sale. Some stores mark
up merchandise before they reduce it to make it look like a great bargain. Furniture stores, in particular, are known for this tactic. But many other stores do it as well on select merchandise. So do your homework.
Forego extended warranties. With a few exceptions,
extended warranties are a waste of money. Most electronics already come with a limited manufacturer’s warranty. Defects usually show up within the scope of the manufacturer’s warranty. rrp
Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com.
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Millbrook
Christmas Music and Tree Lighting
December 1 @ Millbrook Village Green Stage Millbrook, AL 36054 6:00 p.m. There will be caroling, a live Nativity, refreshments for sale, the Tree Lighting and the Christmas Lights and Music show. (334) 285.6428 cityofmillbrook.org
Millbrook Spirit of Christmas Parade, “A Whoville Christmas”
December 3 @ Sports Complex behind Smokehouse Bar-B-Q to City Hall Millbrook, AL 36054 Parade is at 2 p.m. Millbrook’s Annual Christmas Parade will begin at the Sports Complex behind Smokehouse Bar-B-Q and will end at the intersection at City Hall. Vendors will be set up at Village Green Park from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; there will be arts, crafts, and food. This is one of the great things about living in a small community - family fun, not too crowded and loads of excitement for everyone. No admission fee. (334) 285.7232 cityofmillbrook.org
Montgomery
Southern Homes & Gardens Christmas Open House
November 1-5 8820 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Join us for our annual Christmas Open House November 1-7! Enjoy an ENTIRE WEEK of storewide specials and shop new and exciting decor, trees, ornaments and more at our favorite event of the year! (334)387.0440 southernhomesandgardens.com
November 18 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117 6-8 p.m. Come rock around the tree with us, Montgomery! The MAGIC is returning this holiday season with The Shoppes at EastChase All is Bright Parade presented by MAX Credit Union!?? Bring the entire family out on Friday, November 18 at 6 PM to help us welcome Santa to The Shoppes + enjoy a tree lighting ceremony! (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com
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November 19 @ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. FREE. Kick off your holiday shopping and support local artists at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts’ annual Artist Market! Featuring artists from across the River Region and the state, Artist Market offers a beautiful array of works in various price ranges, from striking fine art to charming stocking stuffers. On Saturday, enjoy musical performances by Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet School and fares from local food trucks while you shop. Proceeds from Artist Market benefit the local artist community and educational programming at the Museum. (334) 625.4333 mmfa.org
17th Annual Light the World: Virtual Interfaith Christmas Nativity Exhibit
November 30 - December 4 @ Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 3460 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36111 Open daily from 1 pm to 8 pm. There will be live music each evening, with a Seniors and Veterans Concert on Thursday, December 1 from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. In honor of our theme, “We are All God’s Children,” international groups will provide several of the concerts. We are accepting nonperishable food donations for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. MontgomeryNativity.com
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December 1 @ Christchurch 8800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL 36116 6:30 p.m. Candlelit Service of Lessons and Carols with ticketed champagne reception. (334) 387.0566 christchurchxp.net
Eastdale Mall - Santa’s Magical Arrival
December 1 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117 7 p.m. Santa Claus will arrive in his magical sleigh. The Eastdale Express will be up and running, so make sure and catch a ride! (334) 277.7380 eastdale-mall.com
Eastdale Mall - Photos with Santa
December 1-24 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117 Monday-Sunday, 11a.m. to 7 p.m. Christmas Eve from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Come have your photo made with Santa on the big green sleigh! Packages and Digital Files are available to purchase! (334) 277.7380 eastdale-mall.com
2022 Capital City Governors Tree Lighting
December 2 @ Capital 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 5 p.m., Come enjoy the National Guard Band 30 minutes prior to tree lighting. - Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol. (334) 834.3022 ext. 2 montgomeryal.gov
Annual Holiday Light Festival The Montgomery Zoo
December 2-25 @ Montgomery Zoo 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110 6- 9 p.m. each night. Remember a loved one or honor someone special during the holiday season by purchasing a light on the Jackson Hospital Lights of Love tree. For each contribution of $25, a symbolic light will be placed on the tree. A generous gift of $100 or more will purchase a miniature Moravian star. for a donation of $500 or more, an honoree will be remembered as an angel. (334) 240.4900 montgomeryzoo.com
Holiday Dinner Cruise
December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17 @ Downtown Riverwalk Montgomery, AL 36106 Cruise the Alabama River with Santa on the Harriott II Riverboat, Downtown Riverwalk. (334) 625.2100 montgomeryal.gov
Alabama Shakespeare presents “It’s a Wonderful Life”
December 2-31 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers the impact of his life one fateful Christmas Eve. Kate Bergstrom will make her directorial debut leading
a cast of five actors who will use sound effects, singing, and quick character changes to bring to life this iconic American story. This production is perfect for all ages. (334) 271.5353 asf.net
River Region Ballet “The Nutcracker”
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December 2-4 @ Davis Theatre 7981 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 December 2 & 3 at 7 p.m. and December 3 & 4 at 2 p.m. “The Nutcracker,” choreographed by Stevan Grebel and set to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, will thrill the audience with the prodigious dancing of the Youth Ballet Company and students from the school. With spectacular backdrops, scenery and a growing Christmas tree, this ballet is truly magical! (334) 356.5460 riverregionballet@gmail.com alabamariverregionballet.com
Frist United Methodist Church Announces Gift Hope
December 4 2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Gift Hope will offer people in the River Region an opportunity to rethink the traditional holiday gift by honoring friends and family with specific gift donations to local non-profits. (334) 834.8990 fumcmontgomery.org/gifthope
Frazer Church presents Christmas Musical: Lessons and Carols
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December 4 @ Wesley Hall 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 4 p.m. A fusion of ancient and fresh worship traditions for the whole family featuring the reading of scripture (“lessons”) and the singing Christmas carols, arranged to tell the story of the prophesied coming and birth of the Savior. Childcare available (birth to 4 years). Children are welcome to the service. (334) 272.8622 frazerumc.org
The Shoppes at Eastchase Bedtime Stories with Santa
December 6 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Enjoy Bedtime Stories with Santa at The Shoppes! Grab your holiday jammies and head to BooksA-Million! Bedtime Stories with Santa will feature a book reading by the Big Man himself, complimentary cookies, hot chocolate, and a photo opportunity with Santa! Tickets are $15 each and include a copy of the book to keep! Hosted at Books-A-Million on Tuesday, December 6 and 13 from 4 PM – 6 PM. (334) 279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com
2022 Capital City Tree Lighting
December 7 @ Riverfront 100 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 6 p.m. – Located at the Riverfront (334) 625.2100 montgomeryal.gov
Glenn Miller Holiday Concert featuring Airmen of Note
December 7-8 @ Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Annual Glenn Miller Holiday Concert. This year’s performance is free to the public. Will be accepting canned food donations for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. This performance will be held at the Davis Theatre. Featuring The United States Air force Band, Airmen of Note, premier jazz ensemble, will perform holiday and Glenn Miller favorites. (334) 241.9567 troy.edu/davistheatre
24th Annual Lights of Love
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December 8 @ Jackson Hospital 1725 Pine St Montgomery, AL 36106 Remember a loved one or honor someone special during the holiday season by purchasing a light on the Jackson Hospital Lights of Love tree. For each contribution of $25, a symbolic light will be placed on the tree. A generous gift of $100 or more will purchase a miniature Moravian star. for a donation of $500 or more, an honoree will be remembered as an angel. (334) 293.6940 jackson.org
First Baptist presents The Living Christmas Tree
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December 8-11 @ First Baptist Church 305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Thursday and Friday at 7 PM; Saturday and Sunday at 4 PM. Come experience the splendor of Christmas in Main Sanctuary as the FBC choir and orchestra present, The Living Christmas Tree, a musical presentation that celebrates the birth of Jesus and the hope He brings. (334) 241.5156 montgomeryfbc.org
Cloverdale Playhouse presents “Dot”
December 8-18 @ Cloverdale Playhouse 960 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 The holidays are always a wild family affair at the Shealy house. But this year, Dotty and her three grown children gather with more than exchanging
presents on their minds. As Dotty struggles to hold on to her memory, her children must fight to balance care for their mother and care for themselves. This twisted and hilarious new play grapples unflinchingly with aging parents, midlife crises, and the heart of a West Philly neighborhood. (334) 262.1530 cloverdaleplayhouse.org
2022 Capital City Christmas Parade
December 9 @ Downtown Montgomery 6:15 p.m. The City of Montgomery would like to invite you to the Christmas Parade. Depart from Cramton Bowl and Parade downtown from Capitol Steps to the Court Street Fountain. A limited number of parade entries will be accepted. (334) 625.2100 montgomeryal.gov
F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum Christmas Open House
December 10 919 Felder Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 Free and Open to the Public from 10 am to 3pm. Author Maire Martello will be signing copies of her new guide book Stepping Out with Scott and Zelda. (334) 264.4222 thefitzgeraldmuseum.org
Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tour Open House
December 12 and 19 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 5:30 -7:30 P.M. The 1907 Governor’s Mansion will be aglow with lights and filled with the spirit of the season. (334) 834.3022, ext. 4 governor.alabama.gov
His Vessel Ministries Open House
December 13 300 Water Street Montgomery, AL 36104 4-6 p.m. Refreshments served. Live Music. (334) 356.4478 hisvessel.org
The Montgomery Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”
December 14 @ MPAC 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 6:30 p.m. One night only at the MPAC. (334) 409.0522 montgomeryballet.org
Holiday Pops Concert
December 16 @ Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa St Montgomery, AL 36104 7:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Join the MSO for an evening of everyone’s seasonal favorites. (334) 240.4004 montgomerychorale.org
The Montgomery Chorale Messiah Sing Along
December 20 @ Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Ave Montgomery, AL 36104 7 p.m., Messiah Sing Along (334) 265.3737 info@montgomerychorale.org montgomerychorale.org
Frazer Church “Candlelight Worship”
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December 23 -December 24 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Invite a friend, bring the whole family, and make Candlelight Worship a part of your plans on Christmas Eve (and the day before). Two contemporarystyle services (Dec. 23 at 6:00 PM & Dec. 24 at 6:00 PM) and a traditional-style service (Dec. 24 at 4 PM). (334) 272.8622 frazerumc.org
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December 25 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 We will offer one service on Christmas Day, December 25, at 10 AM, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. The service will be led by Pastor Chris and his family. There will be no childcare available. Classes will not meet. We will return to our regular worship and discipleship hours on January 1, 2023 (Traditional Service, 8:30 AM; Discipleship Hour, 9:45 AM to 10:45 AM; and our Contemporary Service, 11 AM) (334) 272.8622 frazerumc.org
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TBA @ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 2 to 4 p.m.; The festivities for the event include musical performances by local school choirs and performance groups, holiday art projects, cookies and lemonade, and horse and carriage rides in the park. Holiday Open House is free and open to the public, so invite your friends and family and spend the afternoon at MFA celebrating the season. (334) 625.4333 mmfa.org
Old Alabama Town Holiday Open House
Date TBA 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Join Old Alabama Town in December to celebrate the holiday season. Our house museums will be authentically decorated for the holidays. Early December. (334) 240.4500 oldalabamatown.com
Planetarium presents: “Tis the Season!”
Date TBA @ Planetarium 1010 Forest Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 This great traces the development of many of the world’s endearing holiday customs, and how they involve lighting up the winter season, from the burning Yule log and sparkling Christmas tree lights, to the lighting of the Menorah and luminaries. It also recounts the historical religious and cultural rituals practiced during the time of winter solstice. Not only Christian and Jewish, but also Celtic, Pagan, Nordic, Roman, Egyptian and Hopi. It also takes a look at some of our more lighthearted seasonal traditions: from gift-giving and kissing under the mistletoe to songs about lords a-leaping, and ladies dancing. And the custom of decking the halls with greenery and candles. St. Nicholas, Kris Kringle, Father Christmas, and Santa Claus all drop by as well. (334) 241.4799 montgomery.troy.edu/planetarium
Planetarium presents: Season of Light and The Alien Who Stole Christmas
Date TBA @ Planetarium 1010 Forest Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 The Alien Who Stole Christmas--Ride along with Santa as he is abducted by a flying saucer on Christmas Eve. The UFO takes Santa on a tour of the solar system and shows him some unearthly children who were left off his list. Season of Light--This traditional Christmas offering is narrated by NPR’s Noah Adams. This show covers the various celebrations around the world which occur on or around the Winter Solstice. Extensive time devoted to the traditional Christmas story. (334) 241.4799 montgomery.troy.edu/planetarium
The Montgomery Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”
November 22 @ The Chapel at the Waters 1 Chapel Hill Street Pike Road, AL 36064 6:30 p.m. Come join us as we perform the II Act only at the Chapel in the Waters. (334) 409.0522 montgomeryballet.org
Pike Road Dance Academy: Holly Jolly Christmas Performance
December 10 @ Saint James Church 9045 Vaugn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.. A Christmas Performance with studio. Christmas routines to ignite the Christmas spirit. (334) 782.9200 pikeroaddance.com
Prattville
City of Prattville Free Holiday Art Workshop
November 19 and December 10 @ Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery 342 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067 Free and Open to the public. Limited space available. (334) 595.0854 facebook.com/prattaugaartguild
Prattauga Art Guild Holiday Open House
November 20 @ Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery 342 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067 1-4 p.m. The Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery will be decorated for the holiday season and open for shopping. Stop by for light refreshments and find unique items for those special people on your Christmas shopping list! (334) 595.0854 artguild.prattvilleal.gov
December 1 @ Grassy area near the Fountain at Court and Third Streets, Prattville, AL 36067 6-8 p.m. Heritage Park by the Fountain and Autauga Creek Dam. Tree lighting, music, visits with Santa, and more. No charge for tree lighting event. (334) 595.0854 prattvilleal.gov
City of Prattville Ice Skating Rink
December 1-31 @ Creekwalk (near Heritage Park) Prattville, AL 36067 Enjoy Ice Skating wityh your family and friends on the banks of the Autauga Creek under the lights of the Christmas Tree at Heritage Park. Cost is $5 per person for 30 minutes and includes skates. (334) 595.0800 prattvilleal.gov
City of Prattville’s Annual Christmas Parade
December 2 @ Autauga County Courthouse Prattville, AL 36067 The parade will start at 7pm at the Autauga County Courthouse at 4th and Court Streets. It will follow Main Street, turn right on Northington, then left on Doster Road to Stanley Jensen Stadium. (334) 595.0854 prattvilleal.gov
Prattvilles Way Off Broadway presents “A Seussified Christmas Carol”
December 8-18 @ Prattville Way Off Broadway Theatre Cultural Arts Building 203 West 4th Street Prattville, AL 36067 Thursdays and Sundays. Peter Bloedel’s A Seus-
sified Christmas Carol, a show which combines the world of Dr. Seuss with Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale. Tickets are $10 (334) 595.0854 artguild.prattvilleal.gov
December 9 @ Doster Community Center 424 South Northington Street Prattville, AL 36067 Enjoy a Christmas Concert featuring the Prattville Pops at 7 p.m. This annual concert will delight the entire family with Christmas songs and sing-a-longs. The concert will be held at Doster Community Center on South Northington in Prattville. (334) 595-0854 pops.prattvilleal.gov
The Prattville Ballet’s “The Grinch Ballet”
December 10 @ Jeff State Performing Arts Center 1850 Lay Dam Road Clanton, AL 35045 2 p.m., The Grinch Ballet. Presented by The Prattville Ballet and students of C.J.’s Dance Factory. Go to: tututix.com (334) 467.8603 cjsdancefactory.com
City of Prattville Main Street Christmas
December 13 @ Downtown Prattville 5 – 7:30 pm. Carolers, Kids Projects, Visits with Santa and more. Giveaways form Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Merchants. (334) 595.0854 prattvilleal.gov
Christmas Variety Show
December 15 @ Doster Community Center 424 South Northington Street Prattville, AL 36067 7 p.m. Performances by local and regional talent. (334) 595.0854 artguild.prattvilleal.gov Date TBA 497 Golson Road Prattville, AL 36067 Come shop at Jingle Market and have pictures made with Santa! There will also be raffle prizes every hour! (334) 365.4343 autaugaacademy.com
Tallassee
Christmas Tree Lighting
December 2 @ Veterans Park 6 p.m. at Veterans Park. Santa will arrive. (334) 283.5151 tallassee-al.gov
Holiday Market
December 2-3 @ Veterans Park Vendors selling crafts and food. (334) 283.5151 tallassee-al.gov
Holiday Parade
December 3 10 a.m. Begins at Tallassee Church of Christ and goes thru Central Blvd down to Barnette Blvd. and end at Tallassee High school. Holiday activities after parade in downtown Tallassee for children. Trains ride, Santa and more. (334) 283.5151 tallassee-al.gov
Wetumpka
Christmas on the Coosa Pageant
November 5 @ Wetumpka Civic Center 410 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 More details to come. November 10-12 @ Wetumpka Civic Center 410 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 November 10h from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Friday, November 11th from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and November 12th from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Annual show features baked goods, canned goods and crafts from more than 20 artisans. Door prizes every hour. Tickets available at the door. Come taste foods prepared by members from our recipe cookbooks which will also be on sale. Sheila Green (334) 567.3594 or Patricia McCullers (334) 567.5785 Facebook/ Charis Crafters
Downtown Dickens Christmas and Tree Lighting
December 2-3 @ Downtown Wetumpka Wetumpka, AL 36092 5-8 p.m. The Annual Tree lighting will take place on Friday, December 2 from 6-6:30 p.m. Join the Wetumpka Chamber in collaboration with the City of Wetumpka, and Main Street Wetumpka for a two-night community event as we celebrate the annual Christmas tree lighting and enjoy a Victorian Christmas in historic downtown Wetumpka! A Downtown Dickens Christmas will be held on December 2nd and 3rd from 5:00 pm-8:00 pm, where you’ll be transported back to scenes from “A Christmas Carol” with period costumes, photos with Father Christmas, authentic vendors, and decorated downtown businesses. This is the perfect time to walk around our whimsical historic business district and complete your holiday shopping. (334) 567.5147 wetumpkachamber.com
December 4 and 9 @ Wetumpka Depot 300 S Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Wilbur, the runt of the litter, desperately wants to avoid the butcher. With the help of Charlotte, a loyal spider with a flair for writing, and the scavenger rat, Templeton, Wilbur might have a chance at a new life. With unforgettable characters, Charlotte’s Web is a timeless story about friendship. (334) 868.1440 wetumpkadepot.com December 2 @ Courthouse Square in Opelika 5:45-7:00pm. Opelika’s official kick-off event for the Christmas season! This is a free event for all! This is an annual community event that kicks off the Christmas season in Opelika with artificial snowfall and tree lighting. www.opelikachamber.com
City of Wetumpka Christmas Decoration Contest The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center
December 8 6:00 p.m. Businesses and residential. There will be judging to those who have submitted applications. Prizes will be awarded. (334) 567.5147 cityofwetumpka.com
City of Wetumpka Christmas on the Coosa
ad on page 55
December 10 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Join us for the 50th Christmas on the Coosa Celebration. We will begin the morning with our annual Character Breakfast of two sessions. The first session at 7:30 am and the second session at 9:30 am. Food, Arts & Crafts vendors will be an all day setup starting at 12 noon. The Antique Car Show will also begin at 12 noon and ending at 3 pm. We are excited to bring back the night parade which will start at 6 pm. At last, Santa will ski across the Coosa River at 7pm and we will end our night with the fireworks show. (334) 567.5147 wetumpkachamber.com December 5-January 1 241 South College Street Auburn, AL 36830 Gingerbread Village Unveiling- Come experience the largest Gingerbread Village in East Alabama in the conference center of the Hotel at Auburn Uni-
versity. Over 10 Gingerbread Buildings are on display in the pre-function foyer for guests to admire. The Gingerbread Village will be unveiled right after the Auburn Christmas Parade and remains on display throughout the month of December. 334-821-8200 www.auhcc.com
Auburn/Opelika
Annual Christmas in a Railroad Town
November 25, December 3, December 4 1032 South Railroad Avenue Opelika, AL 36801 Visit with friends and enjoy a variety of food vendors and restaurants. Bring the kids to write letters to Santa, enjoy pony rides, caroling, entertainment and other new activities! Guaranteed fun for adults includes Loft Tours, personalized gifts made on site and bundles of sweet treats for sale. Local retail shops will be open late for all your Christmas needs. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be available for family photos! Be transported back in time and take a wagon ride through the Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour. Leave straight from Christmas in a Railroad Town and be delivered back once you’re done. Enclosed trolley rides also available at the Museum of East Alabama. 334-745-0466 www.opelikamainstreet.org
Scott Bradlee’s A Very Postmodern Jukebox
ad on page 53
December 2 @ Gogue Center for Performing Arts 910 South College Street Auburn, AL 36849 7:30 pm. When New York City pianist Scott Bradlee created Postmodern Jukebox out of a basement in Queens in 2011, his goal was simple: remake the pop hits of today into the classic sounds of yesterday. Bruno Mars became Frank Sinatra. The Spice Girls became The Andrews Sisters. Guns ’n’ Roses became Bessie Smith. (334) 844-4722 https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/ scott-bradlees-postmodern-jukebox/
Christmas at Chocotafaula
December 10 929 County Road 14 Auburn, AL 36830 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Family Games and activities, Café, Adult Refreshments, Horse Drawn Carriage, Santa Claus visits with printed pictures, Inflatable slides and bounce houses, Inflatable pillow, Petting zoo, Live music and food, Pony rides, Rock Climbing wall and much more. (334) 209.1777 visitchoctafaula.com
Eclectic
Christmas Begins With Christ: An Eclectic Christmas
December 1-10 1733 Claud Road Eclectic, AL 36024 Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. Time slots are scheduled in 15 minute increments. If registering through the website, your reservation will be confirmed as soon as possible. Admission is free, and donations are accepted and appreciated to help with expenses. (334) 580.7990 reservations@anelecticministry.org www.aneclecticministry.org
Lake Martin/Alex City
Alexander City Holiday Market
November 19 @ Main Street Alexander City, AL 35010 Holiday Market from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. (256) 307.3949 mainstreetalexandercity.org November 25 @ Russell Crossroads 19 Russell Farms Road Lake Martin, AL 35010 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. The turkey and dressing have all disappeared, we hope you had a great Thanksgiving! Now, it’s time to start thinking about Christmas! Your first stop on the Friday after Thanksgiving should be Russell Crossroads for Christmas at Crossroads! Make sure your kids have their lists ready for Santa, we know they have been really good this year! The Jolly Elf will make his way from the North Pole to the Green Stage at 10am. And, as in the past, he will arrive by carriage and will be in place on the Green Stage until around 2. On the Town Green, in addition to the Holiday Bazaar, there will be tons of arts and crafts for the children to make and games for them to play! Come spend Black Friday at Russell Crossroads with Santa and a whole lot more! (256) 397.1019 russelllandsonlakemartin.com
Holiday Bazaar
November 25 @ Russell Crossroads 19 Russell Farms Road Lake Martin, AL 35010 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Artisans and patrons from all over gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! (256) 397.1019 russelllandsonlakemartin.com
Alexander City Parade
December 5 @ Downtown Alexander City 6 p.m., One of East Alabama’s largest parades featuring elaborate floats, dancing groups, marching bands, horse-riding clubs and Santa Claus highlight. (256)234.3461 alexcitychamber.com
Alexander City Downtown Christmas
December 10 @ Main Street Downtown Christmas from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. (256) 307.3949 mainstreetalexandercity.org
Calera
North Pole Express Train Rides
November 18-20, 25-27, December 2-4, 9-11, and 16-18 @ Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 9th Street Calera, AL 35040 Please visit our website www.hodrrm.org for times. “All Aboard” says the conductor, and your journey begins. Through the dark night, the magical train speeds to the top of the world! Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves board the train to visit with everyone, so be sure to bring your camera! You’ll enjoy chocolate milk and cookies and sing Christmas carols along with the live musician, Mr. Jim. Listen to a special Christmas story and receive a Christmas gift. (205) 757.8383 hodrrm.org
Christmas at the Station
December 3,10 and 17 @ The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 9th Street Calera, AL 35040 Christmas at the Station 2020 Logo Graphic ‘Tis the season to be jolly! Get your tickets and bring the whole family to celebrate the holiday together with a 30-minute daytime ride on the seasonally decorated Calera & Shelby train; visit Santa for a festive photo opportunity on the Museum grounds; board the narrow-gauge steam train for a quick trip down Candy Cane Lane on the Shelby & Southern Railroad; and enjoy all the activities on the museum grounds. It’s all included with your Christmas Experience tickets! 1(205) 757.8383 hodrrm.org
November 2-6 @ Jefferson Convention Complex 2100 Richard Arrington Blvd. Birmingham, AL November 2 from 9-4 p.m., November 3-5, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and November 6 from noon until 5 p.m. The largest indoor arts, crafts, and gifts show in the south, this show draws exhibitors from over 30 states with products like clothing, jewelry, food, decorations and much, much more. (205) 836.7178 christmasvillagefestival.com
Christmas Craft Show
November 11-12 @ Gardendale Civic Center 857 Main St. Gardendale, AL 35071 Gardendale Civic Center hosts the Christmas Craft Show with over 60 booths. Only handmade, hand crafted items. Pictures with Santa too! (205) 683.0354 northartscouncil.webs.com
McWane Science Center Magic of Model Trains
November 19-January 1 @ McWane Science Center 200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL 35203 Magic of Model Trains will return to spread some holiday cheer and amaze guests. Discover trains of every shape and size inside this popular exhibit of train displays. Every set in the exhibit is designed to scale with the size of the trains. The meticulous detail of the scenery includes covered bridges, downtown storefronts and, of course, several train stations that will keep your family entertained for hours. Sponsored by Royal Cup (205) 714.8300 mcwane.org
McWane Science Center Christmas Movies in IMAX
December 2-3 & 9-10 @ McWane Science Center 200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL 35203 Newly renovated IMAX. Showings at 11 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. both days (205) 714.8300 mcwane.org
December 16-23 @ BJCC Concert Hall 1 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N Birmingham, AL Alabama Ballet is proud to present George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® as one of only eight companies in the world licensed by The Balanchine Trust to perform this holiday masterpiece. Tchaikovsky’s beloved melodies transport the young and young at heart to a magical world where mischievous mice besiege a battalion of toy soldiers, and an onstage blizzard leads to an enchanted Land of Sweets. (205) 322.4300 alabamaballet.org
Eufaula/Dothan
Eufaula Christmas Tour of Homes
December 3-4 Stroll through history and witness the magnificence of Eufaula’s finest homes all aglow in holiday splendor. Enjoy a seated luncheon or an elegant dinner at the grand historical Shorter Mansion. (334) 687.3793 eufaulapilgrimage.com
Victorian Christmas
December 11 @ Landmark Park 430 Landmark Drive Dothan, AL 36303 1:00-4:00p.m., Sample turn-of-the-century desserts, sip hot chocolate or mulled cider and try
Out of State/Georgia
Stone Mountain Christmas
November 12 - January 1 @ Stone Mountain Park 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd. Stone Mountain, GA There is nothing like the Christmas season that magically transforms Stone Mountain Park into a land of enchantment. Within the glow of more than two million twinkling lights, you can watch live entertainment, engage in fun attractions and reconnect with friends and family during this special time of year. Make a Stone Mountain Christmas a part of your holiday tradition. Events include Wonderland Walkway, Snow Angel Castle, Holly Jolly Cabaret, The Polar Express 4D Experience, Snow Angel Fireworks and Snowfall Celebration, Sleigh Ride, Simply Christmas, Christmas Parade, Visit with Santa Claus, storytelling and live shows, great food and holiday shopping! (800) 401.2407 stonemountainpark.com
Annual Fantasy In Lights
November 18- January 1 @ Callaway Gardens 17800 US Hwy 27 Pine Mountain, GA 31822 New for 2022, experience Celebration Lake, a floating spectacular featuring 30 dancing trees honoring 30 years of Fantasy In Lights! Nestled amidst wooded landscape of Callaway Gardens, Fantasy In Lights is the Southeast’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show with more than eight million twinkling lights celebrating the holiday season. Drive your car or ride the Jolly Trolley to experience scenes like Magical Field of Lights, March of the Toy Soldiers and Snowflake Valley. At Robin Lake Beach, enjoy ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and ‘The Nativity’, light and sound shows enticing passers-by to stop, reflect and enjoy. (844) 512.3826 callawaygardens.com
Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular
November 19 – January 16 @ Lake Lanier 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 Visit Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular for a night of nostalgic wintry fun. The Lakeside Lights Spectacular will take you on a magical walk through an amazing lighting extravaganza with festive seasonal music. Great for the whole family! (470) 323.3440 lakelanierislands.com
Lanier Islands Snow Island
November 19-December 31 @ Lake Lanier 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 Take the crew snow tubing, get your skates on and practice your figure eights at the ice rink, hop on the carnival rides, make snow angels, warm up with s’ mores and hot cocoa, and shop in Santa’s Workshop. Don’t forget to stop in and let the little ones tell Jolly Ole St. Nick what they hope to find under the tree. (470) 323.3440 lakelanierislands.com
December 1-23 @ Springer Theatre 103 Tenth Street Columbus, GA 31901 This is the beloved song-and-dance Holiday spectacular featuring the music of Irving Berlin. World War II combat veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis are now a popular entertainment duo. With romance in mind, they join a pair of beautiful singing sisters at their lavish Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by their former commanding general. With a dazzling score featuring well-known standards like “Blue Skies,” “Sisters,” “How Deep Is the Ocean” and the famous title song, ‘White Christmas,” this joyous family musical celebrates the season with joy, love and an inspiring message of service to our nation. (706) 327.3688 springeroperahouse.org
December 15-23 @ Springer Theatre 103 Tenth Street Columbus, GA 31901 “It just wouldn’t be Christmas without A Tuna Christmas.” No, that’s not a line from the play but it is a common remark from the 50,000 people who have seen Columbus’ most popular show over the past twenty years. The annual Yard Display Contest is once again threatened by the Christmas Phantom but Vera Carp intends to take home the trophy with a gaudy display that features the Wise Men and Shepherds, Bing Crosby, the Grinch Who Stole Christmas and Natalie Wood. She faces stiff competition from Didi Snavely – owner of Didi’s Used Weapons – as well as Inita Goodwin and Helen Bedd – the cowboy-loving Tastee Kreme waitresses. Aunt Pearl Burrus ain’t sayin’ a word. (706) 327.3688 springeroperahouse.org
December 17-18 @ River Center for Performing Arts 900 Broadway Columbus, GA 31901 The Columbus Ballet presents their annual tradition, The Nutcracker. Come and celebrate the season of love, light and miracles in a splendid world. Fall back in love with this quintessential ballet for the holiday season! (706) 256.3612 rivercenter.org
Just for Kids
ANC Thanksgiving Camp
November 21-23 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL 36054 Ages 6-12. Camp will be three days and drop off/ pick up is regular time drop off 8am-8:45am and pick up is 3:30pm-4pm. Just a reminder that lunch is NOT included for the Thanksgiving Camp or our Spring Break Camps. (334) 285.4550 alabamawildlife.org/thanksgivingday-camp
YMCA Goodtimes Holiday Childcare
December-January 2325 Mill Ridge Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Program will run everyday except Thanksgiving Day or the day after. 7:00 a.m. thru 6 p.m. Please call for more information. (334) 279.8666
YMCA Camp Chandler Christmas Camps
December 17-19 1240 Jordan Dam Road Wetumpka, AL 36092 Arriving on Dec 17th at 2-3 p.m. and departing Dec. 19th at 4-5 p.m. This adventure is for old and new campers (ages 5-14), old and new staff, friends and relatives. Fee: $150 (members) and $165 (non-members), which includes t-shirt and camp store. (334) 229.0035 jikner@ymcamontgomery.org ymcamontgomery.org rrp
Quincy Leonard was victorious at the 61st annual Bud Burns Dixie Junior Championship, September 24-26, in Selma, Alabama. Hosted at the Selma Country Club, 17-year-old Quincy competed in the field with 51 boys, of which only two were boys of color. As Quincy, a 3.2 GPA student who scored 26 on the ACT test, accepted his enormous winner’s trophy, he was also making history as the first black kid to ever win this tournament. Scoring R1:67, R2:73, 140 strokes, (-2). Names previously engraved on the trophy include golf greats Hubert Green, Bubba Watson, Stewart Cink, and several notable others. “Quincy actually won this tournament while the Steph Curry Underrated Tour film crew was filming him. He competed in the tour this past summer and made it to the Curry Cup at TPC Harding Park in San Francisco,” said his father, Quincy Leonard Sr. “He was one of the top 12 to make it there.” During the tour, the Leonard family was selected as one of three families to be featured in the documentary, so for Quincy Jr. to actually win this tournament with the lights and cameras rolling was major. “My daughter Lauryn finished 3rd in the entire girl’s division as well,” said doting father Quincy Leonard Sr., a Top 50 Kids Teacher Honorable Mention by U.S. KIDS GOLF (2020) and owner of Leo Golf Academy. The skills of this brother-sister duo were pivotal earlier this year, back in May, when they brought in wins for their Pike Road High School. Quincy Jr. is a senior and will graduate in 2023.
Quincy and Lauryn have been playing golf since they were toddlers. Quincy started playing tournament golf at age seven and Lauryn at age six. They both attend Pike Road High School. Quincy finished runner-up in the 5A State Championship this year, and Lauryn’s Girls Golf Team (Pike Road) won the state championship. Quincy was also the 2022 Montgomery Advertiser All-Metro Golfer of the Year.
American Heritage Girls Get a Birds-Eye View
AHG Troop AL0236 recently finished working on their Bird/Ornithology badge. The girls studied basic bird anatomy and field marks to learn the criteria for identifying birds in their own back yards, local parks, and along a few of Alabama’s birding trails. The girls are given instruction on how to use binoculars for birdwatching. They’ve learned how to attract birds with various types of bird feeders and how to document the birds that were attracted by starting a bird “life list”. They have also learned how to identify birds by their song. They studied bird beaks and learned how each is different and designed for the type of food each bird eats. They had fun dissecting owl pellets to identify the bones of what the owls had eaten. They also learned about feathers, migration, and conservation efforts for birds. Most of all, the girls learned that birds are one of God’s many exciting creations. The troop is currently working on their horsemanship badge one Saturday a month through the month of December. They plan to begin working on the Native American badge through the month of November, culminating with a Native American food celebration during the week of Thanksgiving. AHG Troop AL0236, chartered by Frazer Church in Montgomery, is a Christ-centered character and leadership development program for girls aged 5-18. For more information, visit the website at www.al0236.org/ahg.
Fairest of the Fair
The Autauga County Fairest of the Fair Pageant has celebrated beauties of all ages at the Autauga Fair for the past 32 years! This year was no exception. Winners from the Little Miss division are given the opportunity to go to Miss Alabama and Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen and participate in the state Rising Star Program, spending the day at the state pageant. Winners pictured from l to r: Linley Cone- Little Miss, Valerie Ogle- Miss Fair, Charis McHenry- Outstanding Teen, Charlotte Alford- Jr. Miss, Tamera McLean- Tiny Miss, Brelynn Mathis- Baby Miss
River Region children under the age of five are now eligible to enroll in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, thanks to a new collaboration between the River Region United Way and the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is the flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation. It mails free, high-quality, ageappropriate books to children from birth until age five, no matter their family’s income. Since its founding in 1995, the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has gifted nearly 200 million books to children worldwide. This is the first time the Imagination Library has been made available to children in the River Region. RRUW aims to enroll 10,000 children in the program by the end of the year. To register, visit www.rruw.org/DPIL.
“The River Region United Way is excited to partner with the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to offer free books to children in our area,” said Jannah Bailey, the president and CEO of the River Region United Way. “Since its founding, the Imagination Library has been incredibly successful in instilling a lifelong love of reading in children worldwide. We know it will be equally effective here, and I encourage any family interested in creating lifelong memories with their children to register.”
There is no cost to families to join the Imagination Library program. To participate, children must be under the age of five and live in Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes, Macon, or Montgomery County. Every registered child will receive their first book in eight to ten weeks upon enrollment. Books will continue to arrive at their home every month until they turn five or their family moves out of the River Region.
Bringing the Imagination Library to the River Region has been a priority of the RRUW Board of Directors since the passage of the Alabama Literacy Act in 2019. This law requires all students, beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, to be proficient in reading by the end of the third grade to advance to the fourth grade. RRUW hopes this initiative will help more children find success inside the classroom.
“One of the reasons why some children struggle to learn how to read is because they often lack access to books during the earliest years of life when language skills are being established in their brain,” said W. Rhea Ingram, Ph.D., Chair and Chief Volunteer Officer, River Region United Way Board of Directors. “Research shows that the more exposure we can provide children to books and the more opportunities we can create for adults to read to them, the more likely a child will learn to read by the end of the third grade and thrive in school. Partnering with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is an investment in our area that we cannot afford not to make.”
In addition to registering at www.rruw.org/dpil, individuals and groups interested in supporting the River Region’s continued participation in the Imagination Library can donate by texting Dolly22 to 71777.
Only recently have scientists begun to study the benefits of gratitude. Vitamin G, as some like to call it, plays a critical role in health and happiness. Focusing on the positive boosts body, mind, and spirit. It gives us energy, inspires us, and transforms us. In a nutshell, it provides life with meaning by thinking of life as a gift.
Dr. Robert Emmons is the world’s leading scientific expert on gratitude. He conducted studies involving gratitude journals and found that when people regularly engage in gratitude, they experience measurable psychological, physical, and interpersonal benefits:
• Feel better about their lives overall • Experience higher levels of positive emotions like optimism, enthusiasm, love, and happiness • Are kinder and more generous to others • Have fewer physical problems including pain • Exercise more regularly and eat healthier • Sleep better • Visit the doctor more regularly for checkups • Feel less stressed • Able to cope with stress more effectively and recover more quickly from stressful situations • Live longer–on average, being thankful adds 7 years to our lives!
How It Works
Why does saying thank you have so many benefits for us? When we count our blessings, we interrupt the cycle of negative and fearful thoughts, which allows the stress system in our bodies to recover. Research shows that when we are thankful, we love our lives and want to make sure we stick around long enough to enjoy them. Also, when we receive praise from others, our brain releases the chemical dopamine, which encourages us to do more to receive such praise. This makes us want to thank others and make them feel good as well.
In her book 10 Mindful Minutes, Goldie Hawn explains that being thankful is not a natural instinct; children need to be taught how to do it. She asks parents to be a good example to their children by thanking them often. It is important to explain to our children why they are being praised. Another important tip is to be careful not to judge how our children express gratitude. Young children under age seven may not fully grasp the concept. It is not what they are thankful for, but that they are learning how to express gratitude that matters. If they want to be thankful for a toy, that is okay. Keeping a gratitude journal is the backbone of gratitude scientific research. Anytime you read about gratitude, you will be asked to write down five points you are thankful for that day or week on an ongoing basis. Over time, you will begin to experience the benefits of gratitude such as stress reduction and optimism. Some people don’t care for the traditional journal approach; they may find it repetitive and boring. Fortunately, there are many ways to express gratitude as a family, such as starting a nightly gratitude prayer ritual. Each family needs to discover what is most effective for them. Plus, you don’t want it to become an annoying chore–it is supposed to make you happier after all!
Here are some ideas for fun, creative gratitude journals using a variety of media. As technology
changes and our children learn more about what they can do with computers, iPads, and iPhones, we should show them how to use these tools for something positive–for making them feel better.
5 Ways to Keep Gratitude Journals with Your Kids
Blog: Try setting up a family gratitude journal blog (password protected, of course). You can even involve grandparents and cousins, no matter how far away they live. You could introduce this idea at Thanksgiving and challenge everyone to submit a post each week during the year.
Audio Recording:
Children love to hear their own voices. You can have them record their journal on a phone or iPad. Once you have the recordings, you can get really creative by posting them online for others to listen to or you can even put it to music and create a song or rap using highlights of what they said.
Videos: Children also love watching videos of themselves. They will have a blast talking about what they are thankful for and watching it over and over. Maybe have them pretend to be reporters and their gratitude is the news of the day. Or they can act out scenes from the wonderful moments they had.
Drawings: For children who are more visual and artistic, ask them to draw or paint what they are thankful for at the time. You can then put the artwork together in a book organized by month or year. Create your own handmade journal or take pictures and use an online slideshow to present the images.
Collage: Looking for pictures in magazines or online to build a gratitude collage is a fun family project. And no artistic talent required! All that cutting is also a great way for your child to build fine motor skills.
Enjoy saying thank you with your children in these innovative ways. You can mix and match these media as well, such as posting videos on your gratitude blog.
rrp
Sandi Schwartz is an author, journalist, and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. As the founder and director of the Ecohappiness Project, her mission is to inspire and educate families to build a nature habit to feel happier and calmer. Learn more at www.ecohappinessproject.com.
Tuesday November 1
Wetumpka Nutrition Class
($5 member/$10 non-member) 9:15 AM Wetumpka YMCA, 200 Red Eagle Rd. Wetumpka , AL, 36092 This class meets the first Tuesday of every month in Group X Room. This class will teach
simple ways to properly fuel the body in order to
sustain a healthy weight, healthy heart, and healthy brain function. (334) 567-8282 www.ymcamontgomery.org/specialevents/
Annie at MPAC
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM, Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 The classic play about the little orphan girl, Annie. The sun will come out tomorrow! Get your tickets now. (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org
Thursday November 3
Community Market Wetumpka (free) 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Merchant Alley , Downtown Wetumpka Wetumpka, AL, 36092 Community Market is held the first Thursday of each month, April - November, with crafters, artists, food vendors, musicians, farmers, and more. www.cityofwetumpka.com/
Friday November 4
Blackberry Smoke: The Whippoorwill 10 Year Anniversary Tour
8:00 PM Montgom-
ery Performing Arts
Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 MPAC presents Blackberry Smoke: The Whippoorwill 10 Year Anniversary Tour (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org
Saturday November 5
57th Annual Pike Road Arts and Crafts Fair ($5) 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Marks House, 890 Old Carter HIll Road Pike Road, AL, 36064 Come enjoy diverse works of quality artwork and craftwork, delicious food and great shopping just in time for the holiday season. Admittance fee $5. Children 8 and under - free. Cash only. www.pikeroadartsandcraftsfair.com
Fiesta Unidos: A United Celebration of Hispanic Heritage
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Union Station Train Shed, 300 Water Street Montgomery, AL, 36104www.mgmcityevents.com
6th Annual Wing Festival ($10) 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, East YMCA, 3407 Pelzer Avenue Montgomery, AL, 36109 Join us as we put our local chefs to the test. Enjoy great chicken wings from our local competitors, refreshments, and a day of family fun with activities for children. You can come to eat or come to cook! Funds raised go towards East Family YMCA Annual Campaign. Kids under 5 are Free! (334) 272-3390 www.ymcamontgomery.org/specialevents/
Wetumpka Cruiser
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Dowtown Wetumpka, E Commerce St. Wetumpka, AL, 36092 This is a special showcase of antique cars located in Downtown Wetumpka on E Commerce Street, 3pm-6pm. Enjoy
the show!
www.cityofwetumpka.com/
Sunday November 6
Michaels Sunday Makebreak: Ornament Event
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Michaels Stores, All Locations Prattville, Montgomery, AL Come into your local Michaels and take a break and with a free craft. www.michaels.com/
Friday November 11
Montgomery Shred-a-thon
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Eastdale Mall, 1000 W Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL, 36117 Tis the season for holidays and scammers. Protect your identity by shredding your older, important documents.Drive - thru event at Eastdale Mall. www.local.aarp.org/aarp-event/aarp-al-montgomeryshredathon-montgomery-al-110522-gcnb5rt4dk8.html
Saturday November 12
River Region Fall Family Day (Free) 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Camp Chandler, 1240 Jordan Dam Rd. Wetumpka, AL, 36092 Free to attend! All meals and activities will be provided by the River Region Lions Clubs. Call 205-402-0415 for more information. Activities include canoeing, archery, ropes, and more! (205) 402-0415 www.campsealeharris.org/organizer/camp-seale-harris/
Sunday November 13
Exhibition on Screen: Hopper ($12) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Capri Theatre, 1045 Fairview Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36106 The MMFA continues to partner with the Capri Theater to present the Exhibition on Screen series. The first film in the series features the work of Edward Hopper and will be introduced by Angie Dodson, Executive Director of MMFA> (334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org
Michaels Sunday Makebreak: Pop-up
Christmas Tree Card (free) 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Michaels Stores, All Locations Prattville, Montgomery, AL Come into your local Michaels and take a break and learn how to make a pop-up Christmas tree card. www.michaels.com/
Tuesday November 15
Baby Shark Live!: The Christmas Show
6:00 PM
Montgomery Performing Arts
Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Baby Shark Live!: The Christmas Show will be live at the MPAC. Splash along with Baby Shark and Pinkfong as they journey into the sea for the Holidays to sing and dance through some of your favorite songs in Baby Shark Live The Christmas Show! This one of a kind immersive experience will have fans of all ages dancing in the aisles. Lap Policy Children UNDER 2 years old do not require a ticket to sit on a parents lap, but all other customers do. (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org
Exhibition on Screen: Hopper ($12) 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Capri Theatre, 1045 Fairview Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36106 The MMFA continues to partner with the Capri Theater to present the Exhibition on Screen series. The first film in the series features the work of Edward Hopper and will be introduced by Angie Dodson, Executive Director of MMFA. (334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org
Thursday November 17
Food for Thought (free) 12:00 PM Alabama Department of History and Archives, 624 Washington Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36130 Alabama history lunchtime lecture series, Food for Thought are held on the third Thursday of every month at 12:00 pm CT. Programs are presented both in-person at the ADAH and online via the ADAH’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. This month Joshua Burford presents The Invisible Histories Project. (334) 242-4435 www.archives.alabama.gov/
Friday November 18
Champions Of Magic
7:30 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 MPAC presents Champions Of Magic. The team present incredible illusions with supercars, an impossible escape from Houdini’s water torture cell, a mind-blowing prediction that has to be seen to be believed, levitation high above the stage and a finale beyond explanation. (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org
Saturday November 19
Dino Dig Education Program at the Montgomery Zoo
($28) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo
and Mann Wildlife
Museum, 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL, 36110 Our junior explorers (ages 4-12 years old) get to experience an archaeologial dig, discover bones from the past and have a great time while learning about creatures that roamed the earth long ago. Advanced reservations required no later than Friday, November 18 @ 12pm (noon). NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD ON THE DAY OF THE EVENT. (334) 625-4909 www.montgomeryzoo.com/
MMFA Artist Market 2022 (free) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Dr. Montgomery, AL, 36117 Do some holiday shopping and support local artists. Also enjoy musical performances by Baldwin Arts and Academics Magnet School and fares from local food trucks while
you shop.
(334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org
Michaels Demo: Peppermint Candy Melts
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Michaels Stores, All Locations Prattville, Montgomery, AL Come into your local Michaels and learn how you can use candy melts to make any dessert pop! We will also be giving out free samples of our peppermint candy melts while supplies last. www.michaels.com/
The Downtown Art Show Wetumpka
10:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Historic Downtown Wetumpka, Wetumpka, AL, 36092 Art and live music! Contact Don Sawyer for more information at 850-496-5484. (850) 496-5484 www.mainstreetwetumpka.org/ events/2022/4/15/art-walk-wetumpka
Sunday November 20
Jack Absolute Flies Again ($15) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Capri Theatre, 1045 Fairview Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36106 National Theatre Live: Jack
Absolute Flies again is presented in partnership with
Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Introduction by by Susan Willis from ASF.
Michaels Sunday Makebreak: Christmas Tree Pinecones
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Michaels Stores, All Locations Prattville, Montgomery, AL Come into your local Michaels and take a break and make a free Christmas tree pinecone. www.michaels.com/
Monday November 21
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas By Chip Davis
7:30 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Chip Davis, founder and creator of Mannheim Steamroller, will celebrate over 35 Years of his annual Christmas concert tour, making it the longest running concert tour in the
entertainment industry!
(334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org
Tuesday November 22
51st Annual Montgomery Ballet Nutcracker
6:30 PM Chapel at the Waters, 1 Chapel Hill St. Pike Road, AL, 36064 Come see the longest-running Nutcracker in Montgomery. More performances in December! Dec. 4 in Greenville and Dec.13 in
Montgomery.
(334) 409-0522 www.montgomeryballet.org/
Thursday December 1
K-LOVE Christmas Tour
7:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 K-LOVE Christmas Tour live at the MPAC featuring some of your K-LOVE favorites this season! Get your tickets now. (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org
Saturday December 3
Christmas at Lanark
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Alabama Nature Center, 3030 Lanark Rd. Millbrook , AL, 36054 It’s the 14th annual Christmas at the Alabama Nature Center. Enjoy hayrides, crafts, decorating cookies, a movie special, get a picture with Santa and much more. General admission includes all activites. Hot chocolate and
other items will be for sale.
(334) 285-4550 www.alabamawildlife.org
Sunday December 4
The Fab Four - The Ultimate Tribute
8:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 If you love the music of the Beatles then you’ll want to come see this Tribute to the Fab Four at the MPAC. (334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org
Saturday December 10
50th Christmas on the Coosa Celebration
7:30 AM - 7:00 PM, Coosa River, Wetumpka, AL, 36092 Applications for vendors, car show, decoration contest and to be in the parade are all available now. Come join the fun! www.cityofwetumpka.com/
December 1 - 31
ASF presents It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL, 36117 The story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds one fateful Christmas Eve. Come see this iconic American story come to life. This production is perfect for all ages. (334) 271-5353 www.asf.net
November 12-13
ANC Fall Family Campout ($5) 2:00 PM - 9:00 AM, Alabama Nature Center, 3030 Lanark Rd. Millbrook , AL, 36054 Come spend the night with us at the Alabama Nature Center under the stars with your family. Guests will need to bring their own camping supplies and all camping will be Tent Only. Campfires will only be allowed in designated areas. The fee for the weekend pass is $5 per person. (334) 285-4550 www.alabamawildlife.org
November 21-23
Thanksgiving 3 Day Camp at ($90) 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM, Alabama Nature Center, 3030 Lanark Rd. Millbrook , AL, 36054 Alabama Nature Center’s Thanksgiving Camp Monday - Wednesday will be one fo the most unique outdoor camps in the river region. Ages 6-12, Aftercared available for $25 (7:308:00am drop-off and 4-6pm pick-up) (334) 285-4550 www.alabamawildlife.org
November 3-6, 2022
Downtown Wetumpka Holiday Open House
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Dowtown Wetumpka, E Commerce St. Wetumpka, AL, 36092 Extended business hours, deals, & seasonal specials will be a-plenty in downtown Wetumpka at our Downtown Holiday Open House. We look forward to kicking off the holiday season with you! Please check with individual businesses for specific times & promotions. The last Community Market of the year will take place on Thursday, November 3! www.cityofwetumpka.com/
November 6-12
Veterans Appreciation Week at the Zoo
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum, 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery, AL, 36110 All veterans, active duty military personnel and their dependent family members receive a 50% DISCOUNT
on regular daytime admission to the Montgomery Zoo
and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Must provide a valid military identification to receive discount. (334) 625-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com
Every Friday
Harriot II Friday Night Dinner Cruise ($35-55) 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Harriott II Riverboat, 213 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 This two-hour cruise features a fully plated dinner from a local chef, live entertainment, and a full bar for purchase. This dinner cruise is available every Friday! Don’t miss the
boat!
(334) 625 - 2100 www.funinmontgomery.com
Every Sunday
Harriot II Sunday Blues Cruise ($35) 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM, Harriott II Riverboat, 213 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL, 36104 The Blues Cruise is a two-hour cruise featuring live Blues entertainment from local entertainers. The Wheel House Grille has a full bar and concessions available for purchase. This cruise is offered each Sunday. Don’t
miss the boat!
(334) 625 - 2100 www.funinmontgomery.com
Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.
Jo Ann Johnson
RRP: Jo Ann, what inspired you to begin your career in the nonprofit sector?
JJ: My career sort of found me. I was in graduate school but had no “real job” experience. Then, a classmate told me about a substance abuse facility for adolescents looking to hire and train counselors. So I applied and got the job.
RRP: How do you balance life as a working mom serving as the Director of Administration at the Montgomery Area Food Bank?
JJ: My family is very understanding of my time working at home. I do it way more now that my kids are older, but I set time limits and force myself to clock out. I have a super helpful husband whose job allows flexibility, where he can pick up the kids from school and take them to soccer practice. He also cooks dinner, makes their lunches, and helps them with school projects.
RRP: How did both of your daughters develop their passion for playing competitive soccer?
JJ: Their father played competitive youth soccer and spent several years as a referee. When our eldest child was four, we enrolled her in a local rec league, and she seemed to have fun. So we enrolled our youngest when she was three years old.
RRP: How do you encourage your girls to be authentic to who they are and pursue the things they love?
JJ: I love this question. If you ask anyone who knows us, my husband and I are what you see and hear is what you get. The older you become, the less you care about what others think. We live authentically, model authenticity, and don’t feel pressure to impress anyone, anytime or anywhere. Our kids have just naturally adopted that concept.
RRP: What is your favorite thing about being a mom?
JJ: I love the ceremonies like kindergarten graduation and events where your kid gets called to the stage. Your heart swells with pride, and your eyes well up with tears.
RRP: What personal hobbies do you enjoy when you’re not wearing a mom hat or dedicating time at work?
JJ: We garden and grow our vegetables, so I love looking up new recipes to can and preserve. I make all kinds of relishes and jams that people swear I should make a living selling, but I don’t think it would be as rewarding. So instead, I will often put on music, pour a glass of wine, and make a day of preserving the latest harvest.
RRP: You mentioned while being a mom, you gave up trying to be everything to everyone. What tips could you provide other moms?
JJ: Pay attention to your moods, your physical and psychological responses, and whether or not you are taking things out on your kids. Don’t get bogged down in the day-to-day; understand you are doing your best, and if you need help, ask for it.
RRP: Do you find your parenting style to be similar to your parents?
JJ: I empathize with and support the girls like my mom and give values and integrity lectures like my dad. I didn’t realize or appreciate my parents’ full impact on me until I had kids. As my foundation, I pull from them to parent my children. Even though “times have changed,” values, ethics, and morals have not.
RRP: You and your family live in the country. How has that impacted your children growing up?
JJ: My girls have been riding off-road since they could eat solid food, and since my husband is a wildlife biologist, they know more about the outdoors than most kids their age. As a result, they are learning self-sufficiency skills and living a “non-sedentary” lifestyle that my husband and I believe will benefit them into adulthood.
RRP: What’s one thing you would change about motherhood?
JJ: It would be guilt. I would remove all guilt from any mom working hard, doing their best with the resources they have, and making the best decisions they know to make at the time. That guilt, for me, is the worst feeling I have experienced as a mom, and I would take it away in a heartbeat if I could. But then, I ask myself, without the guilt, would I have learned from it? Probably not.
