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local transportation agency is offering passengers free rides during the government shutdown, and one local municipality has announced its annual holiday decorating contest for residents. Here’s the 411 from communities around the region, including Montgomery, Belle and South Charleston.
Free Transportation: One regional public transportation agency has begun offering free rides for neighbors in need of a lift to local food banks, grocery stores and other resource programs during the government shutdown. Mountain Transit Authority (MTA), which services the upper Kanawha Valley communities of Montgomery and Smithers through its Route 11 bus, recently announced the initiative. “We are committed to helping our community during this challenging time,” MTA officials wrote in an announcement. “Your needs matter, and we are here to assist you.” Stop days, times, and locations for MTA buses, including Route 11, are available on the agency’s website.
Parents Night Out: Are you a parent in need of a few hours to get some holiday shopping done (or just relax)? Thanks to an upcoming event at Riverside High School (RHS), you can have just that. From 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, representatives with RHS’s Project Graduation program will offer a fun-filled evening of activities for children in preschool through fifth grade. During the event, kids will be able to take pictures with Santa, watch movies, play games, enjoy music activities, and write letters to the Jolly Old Elf. Food and hot cocoa will be provided, and children can enjoy face painting and cookie decorating. The event costs $20 per child, or $35 per family, and families must register by Friday, Nov. 21. This event is limited to 50 children, so interested caregivers should reserve their spot as soon as possible. More information on Parents Night Out is available on Facebook.
Decorating Contest: The holiday season is approaching, and decorations are slowly appearing in parts of the valley. The city of South Charleston has announced the launch of this year’s Residential Holiday Decorating Contest, which takes place in December. South Charleston residents interested in participating are asked to register by emailing info@visitsouthcharlestonwv.com by Monday, Dec. 1, 2025. Public voting takes place Dec. 15-19, and winners will be announced on Dec. 22. Awards will be issued for the best decorations in four categories, including People’s Choice, The “Griswold” Award, Traditional, and Best North Pole Theme. More information on the Residential Holiday Decorating Contest is available on Facebook.
