My Town: Generous
Ronda Ball-Alvey
Editor–in-Chief, Enjoy Magazine
Vacationing on Lake Shasta and camping trips at Lake Siskiyou were two of my favorite vacations when I lived in the North Bay. The beauty of the area was breathtaking, and the slower pace was a breath of fresh air.
In the mid-’90s, I was determined to make a life change and give my kids the opportunity to experience some of my favorite memories of Shasta County. I especially remembered the friendly, hospitable people I met in Redding. It was the kind of place where I wanted my children to grow up.
At the time, I didn’t know that Redding was where I would learn and grow and spread my wings. In 1998 when I landed a job at KMS Research, I had the good fortune to work with some of the most remarkable people I have ever met. I still socialize with many of them and still work with several at Enjoy Magazine.
My experience with civic organizations, especially Leadership Redding, helped me appreciate all that Redding offers. Attending Chamber of Commerce greeters and serving on the Viva Downtown and Riverfront Playhouse boards have introduced me to many diverse, forward-thinking, amazing people.
There is always something to do in the great outdoors in Redding. I’ve enjoyed playing on softball teams at Big League Dreams and River Trail walks. I’ve spent many nights relaxing on my very own patio boat on Lake Shasta. I’ve made memories of sledding at Eskimo Hill and Bunny Flats with my kids and grandkids, as well as exploring Turtle Bay. I love the Lighted Christmas Parade and having breakfast with 10,000 neighbors at the Roaring Gulch Pancake Breakfast. I am always so proud to show off the iconic Sundial Bridge to out-oftown visitors. Getting involved behind the scenes at the Cascade Theatre is where I met my husband. Being part of the opening of Riverfront Playhouse’s brand-new theatre has introduced me to artistic, talented, lovely people. I love that while at work, I have a front-row seat to the downtown revitalization, and it’s so exciting to watch the transformation.
As the editor of Enjoy Magazine, I have the pleasure to meet and work with many interesting, creative, hardworking people. What always amazes me is how friendly and generous our beautiful community is. I always say that everyone has a story to tell. Those stories are what make up My Town and I’m delighted that I get to be part of it.
