A revolutionary tale of courage and conviction. Award-winning author Peggy Wirgau brings Revolutionary War intrigue to life in her gripping new historical novel, To Outwit Them All, inspired by the mysterious female agent 355 of George Washington’s famed Culper Spy Ring.
It’s 1780 in British-occupied New York City, where socialite Betty Floyd enjoys a privileged life filled with fine gowns, dances, and prominent guests. But beneath her polished exterior lies a dangerous secret: Betty is working as a spy for the American Patriots, risking her life to pass information to General Washington’s forces. When Major John André, the dashing and sharp-eyed British intelligence officer, takes an interest in Betty, her covert activities become even more perilous. As she carefully gathers intelligence and navigates high society, Betty finds herself entangled in a game of deception where one misstep could expose her- and cost her everything. At the same time, whispers of a treasonous plot involving Benedict Arnold and a stolen document add urgency to her mission. As Betty juggles coded messages, hidden alliances, and growing feelings she can’t afford to trust, she must summon every ounce of courage to stay one step ahead of discovery.
Will her identity be revealed before she can complete her mission? Or will she outwit them all and help change the course of history? Full of suspense, romance, and real-life heroes, To Outwit Them All is a powerful story of sacrifice, resilience, and faith. It’s perfect for fans of The Scarlet Pimpernel, Lynn Austin, and Jocelyn Green. Readers are praising Wirgau’s ability to bring the past to life:
“An intriguing, edge-of-your-seat historical fiction. I didn’t want it to end!” –Cathy Gohlke, Christy Hall of Fame author of Night Bird Calling
“A captivating, action-packed tale of espionage, betrayal, and hope.” –Dr. Justinne Lake-Jedzinak, Raynham Hall Museum
To Outwit Them All releases on October 14, 2025. Preorder your copy todaywherever books are sold or at shop.ironstreammedia.com. †
The Megan Montgomery Foundation Board of Directors recently celebrated the third anniversary of the local grantmaking nonprofit. They also celebrated awarding the following grants for healthy relationship education programs: Disability Resource Network in Huntsville, $5,000; Southern Union State Community College in Opelika $13,500; Girls Inc. $10,000; Penelope House in Mobile $10,000; and Camellia Center at The University of Alabama $3,108 bringing the cumulative total grantmaking partnerships to $328,000 since its founding.
The Megan Montgomery Foundation recently celebrated its third anniversary.
“Our mission is to prevent domestic violence before it starts, and that begins with education. By supporting these schools and organizations, we’re helping more young people gain access to the tools they need to foster healthy, respectful relationships and learn the necessary skills to hold their peers accountable for unhealthy relationships before they escalate to abuse,” Meredith Montgomery-Price, Executive Director says. These grants will fund initiatives aimed at equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to foster healthy and respectful relationships. Schools and nonprofits utilize evidence-based programs which are nationally recognized. The Megan Montgomery Foundation grants empower the organizations to hire part-time staff to coordinate and deliver the programs and is the only nonprofit organization in Alabama that is 100 percent focused on primary prevention with funding to make it happen.
Meredith Montgomery-Price is seen here speaking at the anniversary celebration. She is the Executive Director of the nonprofit and Megan’s sister.
The Megan Montgomery Foundation was founded by Megan’s mother, sister and stepfather after she was slain on December 1, 2019, by her estranged husband. Since that day, they have devoted their lives to fulfill Megan’s vision to “warn others of the red flags of a potentially abusive partner and help them with the legal system.”
You have what some would describe as a good life. You acquire most of the things you want. Yet there are days when you are not the most lovable person to be around. You are irritable, snappy, and withdrawn. You and your spouse know something is wrong. What do you do? Ignore the obvious? Pretend everything is okay and avoid each other?
Husbands and wives experience ups and downs from time to time. The cause of irritability may come from a variety of sources — sleep deprivation, anger, poor diet, or too much work, to name a few. Recognizing the onset of unlovable traits is key to living in harmony with your mate. Will you let bitterness and discouragement get the best of you and leave an unpleasant fragrance on your marriage? Or will you manage your attitude and actions?
Self-Inventory. When was the last time you took an assessment of your behavior to evaluate the way you are coming across to your mate? Perhaps you discovered issues with your tone and facial expressions. Self-evaluation is a helpful tool. It can reveal hidden flaws, like self-righteousness, and positive traits, such as kindness. Paul urges Christians in Romans 12:3 not to think more of themselves than what is accurate. Self-embellishment is prideful. He writes, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.”See yourself with truthful eyes. Realize any good you do is from the Lord. It is not for self-boasting. An honest assessment uncovers the truth. Let the results motivate you to make changes for the good of your sacred union.
Reflect Kindness. After you recover from your state of discontentment, humble yourself and apologize to your mate if you have been unkind. An apology enhances healing and growth. Sincere love for your spouse radiates through your actions and words.Show kindness and honor. Live unselfishly in your relationship. Practice the loving command of Scripture to “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10). These are foundational actions and are healthy components in marriage.
Let your vibrant marital love and good character shine whether you are in public or at home. Your spouse will notice and treasure your pure God-honoring dedication to lovability.
-Vanessa M. Jones
Vice President & Co-founder of Biblical Marriage Institute
Grab your family and friends and join us for the 6th Annual Celebrate the Family Expo on Saturday, September 13, 2025at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex’s Finley Center. Enjoy free family fun, great giveaways, and delicious food while you learn about resources that can help you and your family. Rain or shine this is an event you don’t want to miss. Here is a sneak peek at the fun in store!
Be one of the first 200 families at the Expo and receive a free swag bag filled with lots of handy novelty items, gift cards and coupons from participating sponsors.
Back by popular demand, the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage will welcome eight Alabama chefs and food bloggers who will share cooking tips and tricks. A new culinary classic will take the stage every 30 minutes so you will not want to miss it! The incredible lineup includes Danna Standridge, Sue Garrett, Annie McDaniel, Katrina Adams, and more. Find more details here.
Kids Zone. Provided by River of Life Church, children at the Expo will enjoy fun inflatables, games and more! Painted Personalities will provide free face painting, plus balloon twisting courtesy nunu’s balloons from 10am-11am. There will also be many opportunities to meet special mascots including the Chick-fil-A Herd!
When you arrive at the event, you will receive a Birthday Bingo card. Every exhibitor booth will have a special stamp to fill in a square on your bingo card. Fill your card by visiting each booth and be entered to win great prizes!
Opportunity to Give Back. Help us fill the truck! Come to the Expo with gently used clothes, shoes, and household goods to place in Vapor Thrift Store Donation Truck parked at the event and receive a tax donation receipt. Your donations go directly to helping the most impoverished families in the world.
Kevin Derryberry will provide live praise and worship music for the 6th year in a row!
Play with some furry friends and consider adopting a pet from Two by Two Animal Rescue.
Come hungry! Several food trucks will be onsite at the Expo serving delicious food and treats including Lil Bougie Foodie and Southern Coffee and Waffles.
Come to shop! We have added some great merchandise vendors this year that offer unique gift ideas that support ministries and items your family can use at excellent prices.
To find more exciting details about the Celebrate the Family Expo happening on September 13 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., visit www.birminghamchristian.com/expo! See you there! †
We’re thrilled to introduce a joyful new addition to our Fortify Christian Counseling family—Tara Vines, LPC-S, and her certified therapy dog, Ruthie! Together, this dynamic duo brings a warm and compassionate approach to child and family counseling that blends professional excellence with heart-centered care.
Tara Vines, LPC-S, and her certified therapy dog, Ruthie are ready to help children process emotions and overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, and school-related struggles.
Tara Vines, LPC, brings more than 25 years of experience and a heart full of compassion to her work with children and families. With degrees from Auburn University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, she has faithfully served young people in both local schools and the community, offering support through life’s highs and lows. Rooted in her Christian faith and grounded in evidence-based practices, Tara’s approach to counseling is as thoughtful as it is effective. “Kids need to feel safe, connected, and truly seen before they can grow,” she explains. That belief shapes her child-centered, creative counseling style where trust comes first and healing naturally follows.
One of the most beloved members of Tara’s team is Ruthie, a beautiful goldendoodle and certified therapy dog (Pet Partners). Ruthie’s calm and gentle nature puts children at ease and helps create a welcoming, supportive space. Together, Tara and Ruthie offer animal-assisted therapy, a proven method that uses the presence of trained animals to enhance emotional connection and reduce anxiety. Tara uses a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and expressive techniques like play therapy, art therapy, and walk-and-talk sessions, all tailored to fit each child’s unique needs. Her goal is not only to help children process emotions and overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, and school-related struggles—but also to guide parents in understanding their children’s behaviors and building stronger, more nurturing connections at home.
Equally important is Tara’s work with parents. She partners with moms and dads to help them understand their child’s behaviors and develop stronger, more nurturing relationships at home. Her goal is to help children grow in confidence, anchored in who God created them to be, and to empower parents to guide with insight and grace. Tara primarily works with children ages 4 to 13, but she also sees older teens and college-aged young adults on a case-by-case basis. Fortify has other counselors, male and female, who also work with children, teens, and adults. Tara and other licensed counselors are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) insurance.
At Fortify, we believe healing is a journey. With Tara and Ruthie, children have a guide who sees their hearts, honors their stories, and helps them flourish.You can meet Tara and Ruthie at the Celebrate the Family Expo on September 13, 2025 and learn more about this dynamic duo.
Watch the video below to learn more about Tara and Ruthie and how they can serve you!
In 2017, Margaret Anne Palmer was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor, a form of kidney cancer most commonly found in children. Her tumor was discovered by chance. When Margaret Anne was a baby, she had clogged tear ducts, which made her eyes look like they had pink eye. Doctors said they would place stents when she turned one to open the ducts.
On the day of the procedure, while she was in recovery, the family received a call from the doctors saying they were keeping her longer to monitor her blood pressure. After learning about this, her pediatrician, Kelly McMillian, MD, referred her to a nephrologist. The following day, the nephrologist’s office called to say two doctors had reviewed her case. When they arrived at the hospital, the radiologist told the family that they found a tumor on Margaret Anne’s right kidney and needed to do a CT scan to see if the cancer had spread. It had not. Margaret Anne underwent surgery for a total nephrectomy at Children’s of Alabama, performed by Elizabeth Beierle, MD. “We were fortunate that the tumor hadn’t spread, and she didn’t require chemotherapy or radiation,” added mother Natalie. “Margaret Anne had follow-up scans every three months, and then, after three years, the frequency was reduced to every six months.
But in July 2022, during a routine four-year oncology follow-up with Kimberly Whelan, MD, the radiologist once again came in with shocking news. She’d found another tumor, about the size of a golf ball, on her left kidney. This time, it was considered a second primary cancer, and Margaret Anne’s treatment would be more intensive. Within the week, she had a port placed, and chemotherapy began to shrink the tumor, which she named “Wilma.” She started kindergarten during this time, and despite the challenges, her spirit remained strong. After several rounds of chemotherapy, the tumor had shrunk enough for surgery. In September 2022, the surgeon removed part of her left kidney. “The tumor had been very close to a critical artery, and we were grateful that it was successfully removed. Margaret Anne lost much of her hair, and we had to make the difficult decision to shave her head,” said Natalie. “But with incredible courage, she stood up in front of her kindergarten class to explain why she had done it.”
Margaret Anne’s experience at Children’s was beyond incredible. Dr Beierle was so confident and compassionate about how she was going to approach each surgery. “As a mom and a nurse, my mind was racing with all of the worst possible thoughts. She took time and walked us through all options as well as providing us with the comfort that she had our child’s best interest as her priority too,” explained Natalie. “Dr. Whelan was also very thoughtful during the second diagnosis and let us know that despite Margaret Anne’s situation being unusual, she would make sure to consult with all of her colleagues to ensure we had the best plan moving forward.” Natalie added that Children’s has such an incredible outreach to the patients and families by providing healthcare, support and even the fun activities to help children have something to look forward to during their hospital stay. “I can’t imagine how our lives would have been impacted if we would not have had the privilege of Children’s so close and available. Margaret Anne has had the ability to participate in so many activities affiliated with Children’s of Alabama including Smile-A-Mile and UA Miracle Kids supporting Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.”
Despite everything she’s been through, Margaret Anne continues to shine. She loves cheerleading, tumbling, swimming, and spending time with her friends. The bigger the challenge, the more determined she becomes. She even enjoys reminding her older brother that she’s tough and can handle anything. “Margaret Anne is a strong, resilient girl who clearly has a bigger purpose,” added Natalie. “She continues to inspire those around her, and we’re so grateful to be part of such a wonderful community that provides hope and support to families facing similar challenges.” She hopes to one day cheer for the University of Alabama and become a healthcare professional to help other people.
Teal Dick, M. Div, LPC-S, is passionate about helping men heal from past pains and grow into stronger people through counseling. Teal brings nearly 30 years of counseling experience and provides a safe place where men can drop their masks and be honest about their struggles.
Teal Dick, M. Div, LPC-S provides therapy exclusively through telehealth from his home in Cleveland, Tenn. To learn more about him, visit www.mystillwaters.org.
Real Issues. Teal explains that many men today experience shame, stress, confusion, and other mental health issues and private battles. However, many don’t seek help because of the stigma surrounding therapy. During his counseling sessions, Teal strives to meet his clients where they are and provide a safe space for them to be honest. “There are many different names people identify as today, but one of the baselines I try to get clients to is that they are a child of God,” Teal shares, adding, “Most people I see have forgotten that they are children of God and seek the mirrors outside themselves to fill the empty spaces. They sometimes become lost and disoriented in their living. My goal with clients is to help them remember their true identity and remember how to laugh and play.” Teal has experience treating issues including stress and anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, and family conflicts.
Real Hope. Teal provides therapy by telehealth throughout Alabama. He explains that he believes it’s very important for his clients to get to know him and ask him questions to see if they are a good fit. He appreciates telehealth counseling sessions because they can save time for clients with busy schedules since they don’t travel to an office but instead hop on a Zoom call in the comfort of their home or office. The Still Waters Counseling team is a group of licensed professional therapists, including Teal Dick, who offer Christian counseling for those seeking a faith-integrated approach. Their goal is to make each person who comes to them to feel safe, valued and supported. Still Waters Counseling offers therapy in-person in Mtn. Brook and Madison, Alabama and therapy via telehealth anywhere in Alabama. To learn more, visit www.mystillwaters.org or call 205-825-1423.
Watch the video below to learn more about Teal Dick and what therapy by telehealth looks like. †
As we close out our 25th year of publishing, we invite you to come and celebrate with us at our 6th Annual Celebrate the Family Expo! Saturday September 13, 2025 at the Hoover Met Complex Finley Center. Enjoy fun, free activities from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. while browsing 50 plus exhibits where you will learn about resources right here in our community designed to help meet the spiritual, emotional and physical needs of the family. You’ll also have the opportunity to shop for unique gift items and enjoy a great lunch. See page 10 for a rundown of all the activities including our back by popular demand ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage featuring a different celebrated Alabama chef every thirty minutes. You can also visit BirminghamChristian.com/Expo for the most up to date schedule.
GIVEAWAYS. You don’t want to miss out on our Expo Giveaways! The first 200 families attending will receive an Expo Swag Bag full of novelty items, gift cards and coupons. All attendees will have the opportunity to play Birthday Bingo in Celebration of our 25 Years of spreading Good News. We will give away Bingo prizes throughout the event including gift cards, t-shirts, cases of Bud’s Best Cookies, and so much more.
We look forward to seeing you and your family as we Celebrate the Family & 25 Years of Free Good News!
“When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong.” Leviticus 19:33
He didn’t come trotting in with fanfare or pedigree papers. He showed up quietly on a stranger’s porch- wounded, weary, and very much in need of a miracle. He appeared like a four-legged wanderer from a Steinbeck novel. Somewhere along the way, this forlorn boy ran into hard times, likely attacked by other dogs, and he bore the wounds to prove it. His name? Sojourn. Because when the good Samaritan who found him went vet to vet, begging for help he couldn’t afford, it was clear this dog’s journey wasn’t meant to end there. He was a soul in transit, heading toward hope, and Two by Two Rescue didn’t hesitate to take him in.
Sojourn is a two-year-old cutie looking for his forever family. He is available for adoption. Click here to learn more.
Fast-forward a few months, and Sojourn’s now wearing a grin that says, “I made it!” A touch reserved, yet warm and friendly, he is always up for fun with doggy buddies and soaking up attention. This two-year-old gentleman is ready for snack negotiations, a spot on the couch with his name, and the quiet honor of being someone’s “good boy.” That position? It’s open. Sojourn’s not just hoping you’ll apply to adopt – he’s already saved you the seat beside him!
Two by Two is a faith based, no kill rescue whose mission is to give life to abandoned, abused, stray, and distressed animals. Saving animal lives for more than 20 years, Two by Two operates out of Birmingham, Ala., and has coordinated the rescue and adoption of cats, dogs, horses, and even a few pot-bellied pigs. Two by Two has placed dogs in almost forty states and even a few abroad! Come see us at the Celebrate the Family Expo on September 13, 2025. To learn more about Two by Two visit www.twobytworescue.com. †
It’s been said that newlyweds and young married couples are “living on love” due to their abundance of love and lack of resources. My David and I have been married for 43 years, and we have truly done that, as I’m sure many of you have. It goes back to our young married days when we had two children and an unexpected change of careers for David.
Here is a snapshot of the young Standridge family during David’s swearing in.
Being high-school sweethearts, David and I married young. He had a wonderful job, and life was good. He operated a D-9 bulldozer at the coal mines, and I was taking a few classes at the local college while expecting our first child. Then, coal mining went bust, and the company shut down. That event started a winding path to a career change and a relocation for our small family. We now had a three-year-old daughter and a one-year-old son and found ourselves in Montgomery, Ala., with David attending the Montgomery Police Academy. And I must say, we were living on love and a very limited income. I was home with the children, taking care of the household and preparing meals, while David was in training for a new career. I am proud to say that this led to his successful and honorable twenty-one years in law enforcement. But there was a situation that arose where that almost didn’t happen.
He now serves in the Alabama House of Representatives, representing the 34th district.David Standridge faithfully served in law enforcement for 21 years.
I have been told by many that I could “pinch a penny until Lincoln screamed.” This is what trained me to do that: One day, David came home from the Academy and said they had checked his vision, and he could not continue unless he got glasses. We were in a bind. I knew exactly how much I had to spend on groceries for the month to make our meager budget work. And buying his glasses meant that I had very little money for groceries- almost nothing. And we had two little ones to feed. We were too independent to let our family know about this. We were determined to see this through ourselves. I did some praying and figuring on our budget. And I told him, “Let’s go get the glasses. I know what to do.”
So, we went and spent all that grocery money on his glasses. Then, I went to the grocery store and bought the largest bag of potatoes I could find, along with a few other budget stretching necessities. David got paid once a month. So, our little family of four survived for a month on potatoes. Potatoes at every meal. Fried, baked, mashed- every meal. I can still remember the joy of going to the grocery store when that next paycheck came in. And I fixed us a feast that evening. My sweet three-year-old daughter looked at the table and said, “Momma, where are the potatoes?” And with a big smile, I said, “We don’t have to have them today, sweetie. We don’t have to have them.” It was a celebration as we tucked into that meal for sure. We had made it on love and a bag of potatoes. And I still thank the Good Lord for potatoes, perseverance…and love! Please enjoy our favorite potato recipe.
Wash, peel, and chop potatoes into similar size pieces. Place in a large pan on top of stove. Put enough water into the pan to cover potatoes by 1 inch. Add ½ Tablespoon salt to water. Bring to a boil, then simmer till potatoes are done and fork tender. Drain. Mash potatoes with a potato masher. Add 1 stick butter, heavy cream, sour cream, and salt and pepper. Continue mashing with a potato masher. Add milk in small increments and stir until correct consistency. Taste often and add butter, salt and pepper to taste.
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