"March Madness Fever: Alabama & Auburn's Elite 8 Dreams, Medicinal Herb Insights, Convert Your Debt to Wealth & more"

Trivia Question❓

1. A teenager, deeply moved by witnessing communities suffering from contaminated water, was inspired to develop an affordable and efficient water purification system. This invention not only garnered international recognition but also had the potential to significantly impact global access to clean water. Do you know his name or the invention?

2. Two prominent musicians, known for their differing musical styles and perspectives, found common ground through a song. Their collaboration showcased the unifying power of music, transcending personal and artistic differences. Do you know who the musicians are and what song they collaborated on

3. An artist embarked on a project to paint a mural that would encapsulate the rich musical heritage of a Southern city. The artwork highlighted influential musicians and pivotal moments, aiming to educate residents and visitors about the city's significant contributions to various music genres. Do you know the name of the artist and Southern city?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

🎉 This Week’s Can’t-Miss Events (March 26 - April 1, 2025) 🎉

Welcome to our weekly guide of the top events happening around the River Region! From musical performances to local markets and family-friendly gatherings, here’s everything you need to know about this week’s highlights. 🎶🎭🛍️

🎶 Live Music Spotlight 🎶

March 26, 7 PM: Jazz at the Park featuring the talented Montgomery All-Stars. Held at Riverwalk Amphitheater, enjoy an evening of smooth tunes under the stars.
- Source: City of Montgomery Events
March 30, 8 PM: Classic Rock Night at The Warehouse. Local bands will play all your favorites from the ‘70s and ‘80s.
- Source: Montgomery Chamber Events Calendar

🛍️ Farmers & Makers Markets 🛍️

March 27, 9 AM - 1 PM: Autauga Farmers Market - Fresh produce, handmade goods, and baked treats.
- Source: Autauga County Chamber
March 29, 10 AM - 2 PM: Spring Crafts Fair at Wetumpka’s Gold Star Park. Shop unique items from local artisans.
- Source: Wetumpka Area Chamber

🎭 Theater & Performing Arts 🎭

March 28, 7:30 PM: Shakespeare in the Park presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Cloverdale Playhouse.
- Source: Cloverdale Playhouse
March 31, 7 PM: Community Choir Gala - A delightful performance by talented local vocalists at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center.
- Source: MPAC Official Website

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

March 29, 11 AM - 4 PM: Kid Fest at Prattville’s Creekwalk. Activities include face painting, a petting zoo, and craft stations.
- Source: Prattville Chamber
March 31, 2 PM: Children’s Storytime at the Montgomery Library. Bring your little ones for engaging tales and interactive fun.
- Source: Montgomery City-County Public Library

🌿 Green Thumb Gathering 🌿

March 30, 10 AM - 12 PM: Spring Gardening Workshop hosted by the Elmore County Extension Office. Learn best practices for seasonal planting and pest control.
- Source: Elmore County Extension Office

📅 Plan Your Week & Spread the Word
The River Region is alive with energy and excitement! Whether you’re looking to dance, explore, learn, or relax, there’s something just for you. Don’t forget to share this list with your friends and family, and let’s make these next 7 days unforgettable. 🎊

Fried Green Tomato Wrapped Snapper with Spicy Creamed Corn and Jumbo Crab Slaw

This dish is not just a meal—it’s a celebration of the Gulf’s bounty, a nod to Southern traditions, and a testament to Morgan McWaters’ culinary skill and passion.

Recipe @ Bottom of Newsletter

CHEAP Spring and Easter DIY crafts that you actually want to make

Jokes Of The Day

1. My friend said she bought a self-help book that’s supposed to change her life.
I asked her what it’s about, and she said, It’s called ‘How to Stop Buying Self-Help Books.'

2. My mom called to say she finally learned how to use Siri. I said, “That’s great!” Then five minutes later, I got a text from her that said: “Hi Siri, tell my child I’m proud of them.” Followed by: “Send. Send. SEND.”

3. I signed up for a meditation app. It said, “Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and let go of all your thoughts.” So I did. Then I realized I was late for work, missed three calls, and had accidentally Venmo’d my ex $200.

4. I asked my dad for life advice. He looked at me, nodded, and said, “Son… never trust a fart past 30.” Then he walked away like a man who has seen things.

📖 Challenging Bible Quiz 📖
Think you’ve got what it takes to tackle these tough questions? Test your knowledge with our short but challenging Bible quiz! 🕊️💡

Questions:
1. Which bold prophet stood up to King Ahab and Queen Jezebel about their idol worship and famously called down fire from heaven on Mount Carmel? 🔥
2. In the New Testament, who is described as “a man after God’s own heart,” known for his complex legacy of great faith and deep repentance? 💔🙏
3. What was the name of the high priest who mentored Samuel in the tabernacle, despite having sons who were judged for their corruption? ⚖️
4. When God commanded Jonah to preach in Nineveh, which distant city did he attempt to flee to instead? 🚢🏃‍♂️
5. According to Revelation, how many seals are opened before the seven trumpets sound? 🎺

Answers:
1. Elijah
2. David
3. Eli
4. Tarshish
5. Seven seals

🌟 How did you do?
Share your score and challenge a friend to beat it!

THE IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING COMMON MEDICINAL HERBS

A GUIDE TO COMMON MEDICINAL HERBS In a world where herbs have been used for centuries as medicine, it is essential to understand the quality and safety of the herbs that we consume.

While the FDA regulates herbal supplements in the U.S., they are not as strictly controlled as prescription medicines.

Among the common medicinal herbs are Chamomile, known for its anxiety-relieving properties and healing effects on wounds and inflammation.

Echinacea is often used to prevent colds and flu, although long-term use can impact the immune system.

Feverfew treats fevers and may help with migraines, while Ginger is favored for relieving nausea. Ginkgo leaf extract is used for asthma and improved memory, while Ginseng is believed to boost energy and libido.

Milk Thistle is used for liver problems, and Saint John's Wort helps with mild to moderate depression.

Saw Palmetto is used for enlarged prostates, but its effectiveness is debated.

Valerian is used for sleep problems and anxiety. Before incorporating these herbs into your routine, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure safety and efficacy.

Indulge in the beauty of nature's remedies, but always prioritize your well-being.

Tip of The Day

Fish early or late for a quieter catch, start with easy trails at Oak Mountain, and stay hydrated when hiking. For sports events, buy tickets early for better seats and arrive ahead of time to enjoy the pre-game atmosphere. Off-peak travel means fewer crowds and lower costs, and local tips can lead you to great eats and hidden gems along the way.

Tips for Creating Safe and Effective Homemade Skincare Products

Homemade skincare has a rich tradition in various cultures and has seen a resurgence due to the green beauty movement.

Making your skincare products allows for complete control over what goes into them and can even lead to a successful beauty business.

Formula Botanica believes that everyone can learn to formulate skincare products with the right guidance, regardless of their background. When starting to make homemade skincare, it is essential to choose high-quality ingredients and understand their properties.

Simple formulations are recommended for beginners to get familiar with the ingredients and their interactions.

Factors like the right container, production in small batches, accurate ingredient measurements, usage recommendations, and pH adjustment should also be considered for safe and effective homemade skincare. It is crucial to follow good manufacturing practices to avoid contamination and ensure the stability and safety of the final product.

With the right knowledge and care, creating homemade skincare can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

🏠💰 Stop Overpaying for Your Home. Start Building Real Wealth Today! 💰🏠

🎉 Finally, an End to the 30-Year Mortgage Myth 🎉
For years, Americans have been told that paying off a home in 30 years is just the way it’s done. But what if we told you that’s simply NOT true?
It’s time to learn how to flip the script on traditional homeownership!

📚 What You’ll Discover in This Free eBook:
✔ How to pay off your mortgage in as little as 5–7 years.
✔ No need for a line of credit or complicated refinancing.
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✔ Simple steps to converting debt into sustainable, long-term wealth.

🔑 The Key Difference:
Banks have always been masters at using your money to build their wealth. But now, it’s your turn. Learn how to stop feeding their bottom line and start building YOUR legacy instead.

🚨 Why You Can’t Afford to Wait:
Every month you stick with a 30-year mortgage, you’re throwing away money in interest—money that could be working FOR YOU. With the strategies inside this eBook, you’ll finally take control and start living life on your terms.

🌟 Hear From Those Who’ve Done It:
Don’t just take our word for it. Check out these powerful videos:
MoneyMaxAccount Success Stories
Real people have used this approach to eliminate their mortgage and other debts years ahead of schedule. Now, they’re living the dream: no debt, more cash flow, and a secure financial future.

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This isn’t just another “get out of debt” plan. It’s a game-changer.
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

1. Perry Alagappan, an 18-year-old from Houston, Texas, invented a groundbreaking water filter made from graphene nanotubes that removes 99% of heavy metals from water. His invention won the Stockholm Junior Water Prize at World Water Week in 2015.

2. Lynyrd Skynyrd and Neil Young, despite previous musical disagreements highlighted in songs like "Southern Man" and "Sweet Home Alabama," eventually reconciled their differences. Neil Young has occasionally covered "Sweet Home Alabama" in live shows, symbolizing their mutual respect.

3. Burgin Mathews, in his work "Magic City," narrates Birmingham, Alabama's jazz heritage, highlighting figures like Erskine Hawkins and Sun Ra, and emphasizing the city's role in nurturing Black musical expression.