Though the gap between Christmas and New Year’s Day is typically a slow time around Marshall County with most community activities on hold, there are several events occurring before and after the start of the new year.

On Jan. 10, Marshall County Schools will begin 2025 Pre-K registration for children who turn 4 years old before July 1. If you wish to enroll your child in Pre-K, call the school in your area on or after Jan. 10 to make an appointment and pick up a registration packet or request an application packet be mailed to you. The application is also available at marshall-k12.wvnet.edu/boe/our-schools/pre-k/. Bring your child, along with the completed packet, to your screening location as scheduled. All students must have a state-issued birth certificate and current immunization record. Placements will be announced periodically as registrations are completed. WV Pre-K Programs are free for any child who turns 4 prior to July 1.

Marshall County Schools are also welcoming all new students entering kindergarten in August 2025. Beginning Jan. 10, you can call and make an appointment for kindergarten screening and registration if your child is not currently enrolled in a West Virginia Pre-K program. Children already in the Marshall County Pre-K program do not have to register for Marshall County kindergarten. To enter a kindergarten program, a child must be 5 years of age prior to the first day of July. At the appointment, school personnel will conduct health screenings and a brief readiness test with each child. Registration forms will be completed. New students for Marshall County Schools need to have their immunizations made current by their family physician or the Marshall County Health Department.  Call the Marshall County Health Department at 304-845-7840 for vaccination clinic schedules.

The Benwood-McMechen Public Library will host a free viewing of the movie “Abominable” on Jan. 8 at 4 p.m. Follow its Facebook page or call 304-232-9720 for further details.

The Marshall County Chamber of Commerce is kicking off 2025 with a Networking Breakfast on Jan. 7 at 8 a.m. at Perkins Restaurant. Janet Allen will be the guest speaker.

The Wheeling Nailers have two upcoming promotional events. The first is a “Re-Gift” exchange on Saturday, Dec. 28 (puck drop at 7:10 p.m.). The second is a “Kids’ Neon New Year’s Eve” event on Tuesday, Dec. 31, at WesBanco Arena (6:10 p.m. puck drop). This event includes free glow-in-the-dark cups, glow sticks, and other glowing items as well as a postgame laser light show and “grape juice” toast and ball drop.

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With the new year just around the corner, it’s a perfect time for reflection. The past year has likely been filled with its own unique challenges and triumphs, and taking a moment to think on these experiences can be incredibly rewarding. Consider what you’ve accomplished, the lessons you’ve learned, and how you’ve grown as a person.

Reflection gives you a deeper understanding of your journey and helps you set meaningful goals for the upcoming year. Embrace the opportunity to plan for positive changes and new beginnings as you step into the new year with renewed energy and optimism. Remember, “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”