Holiday Gift Guide - November 2014

Holiday Gift Guide

An Advertising Supplement to the Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com • Thursday, November 27, 2014

Holiday Gift Guide Guide

Alliance is Pleased to Announce that Acclaimed Actor David De Vries will take on the role of Ebenezer Scrooge A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Alliance Theatre’s annual holiday gift to Atlanta, returns for its 25th season, November 21 – December 24, 2014. The most heartwarming story of the season comes to life with holiday carols, stunning stage magic and your favorite Atlanta actors. Directed by Rosemary Newcott, the Sally G. Tomlinson Artistic Director of Theatre for Youth, A CHRISTMAS CAROL has become a tradition for many families around the southeast.

Joining the cast in the role of Ebenezer Scrooge is acclaimed Atlanta actor David de Vries. De Vries’s credits include the Broadway production of Beauty and the Beast (playing Lumiere) and the National Tour of Wicked (playing Dr. Dillamond). Some of his favorite Alliance Theatre credits include Lord Farquaad in Shrek, Jacob Marley in A Christmas Carol, and the troubled dad in Carapace. On the screen, his recent film and television credits include Kill the Messenger, Reckless, Nashville, Devious Maids, Drop Dead Diva, and Necessary Roughness. His award-winning career in voiceover has included narrations of more than 100 children and adult audio books and thousands of commercials for radio and television. De Vries inherits the role of Scrooge from actor Chris Kayser, who announced his retirement at the end of last season after playing Scrooge for 16 of the last 20 seasons.

“Scrooge is a role that requires an actor to be ‘a champion.’ He rarely leaves the stage and while there, he

Photo by Greg Mooney

A Christmas Carol Returns For Its 25th Anniversary Season at the Alliance Theatre

relives a lifetime, transforming from a sad and bitter man to, in essence, a joyous, re-born baby, said Director Rosemary Newcott. “David de Vries is one of a very few actors who is absolutely ready for this challenge. He has proven his versatility by brilliantly playing both dramatic and comedic characters on nearly every stage in Atlanta as well as on national tours and on Broadway.

Most importantly, David will bring great intelligence, wit and his own incredible and resilient spirit to Scrooge.

I cannot wait to take this journey with him and watch the entire company, and the audience, interact with a new and exciting ‘champion.’”

The Alliance is also pleased to announce that ten-year-old Jaden Robinson will return to the role of Tiny Tim for a second year. Other Christmas Carol favorites returning to reprise their roles include Thomas Neal Antwon Ghant as Bob Cratchit; Cynthia D. Barker as Mrs. Cratchit; Bart Hansard as Mr. Fezziwig/Christmas Present; Je Nie Fleming as Mrs. Fezziwig/Mrs. Dilber (who was in the production as a child); Elizabeth Diane Wells as Christmas Past; Andrew Benator as Jacob Marley; Joe Knezevich as Fred, Laurie Williamson as Bess; Brad Raymond as Topper, and Lowrey Brown as Young Scrooge. After a few years away, Courtney Patterson returns to the production in the role of Belle.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL is on the Alliance Stage November 21-December 24. For tickets and more information visit alliancetheatre.org/christmas or call 404.733.5000.

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Holiday Holiday Gift Gift Guide Marvel Universe LIVE! is coming in December!

Marvel Universe, has been shattered into pieces by the Mighty Thor in order to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands. With the pieces scattered across the globe, Thor’s villainous brother Loki devises a scheme to clone its powers, inciting a threat that could not only decimate Earth but also obliterate the Universe.

You’ll definitely feel the energy with cutting-edge special effects, pyrotechnics, aerial stunts, martial arts, motorcycles and more. It’s being hailed as the most technically advanced live show ever. Join Marvel fans of all ages for this once-in-a-lifetime, monumental performance. The fate of the universe depends on it!

Dec. 20 - Dec. 22

Dec. 26 - Dec. 28

Tickets start at $20. To discover more about Marvel Universe LIVE!, go to www.marveluniverselive.com, or visit us on Facebook and YouTube.

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Marvel fans, assemble! Marvel Universe LIVE! is taking the live entertainment experience to a whole new level, with a mind-blowing show unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Watch your favorite Marvel Super Heroes including Spider-Man and The Avengers (Iron Man, Black Widow, Hulk and more) and threatening villains come to life in an action-packed arena extravaganza.

Marvel Universe LIVE! will captivate audiences with an authentic and original story that brings more than 25 Marvel icons together on one epic quest. The Cosmic Cube, the source of ultimate power and one of the most feared and coveted treasures in the

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Holiday Gift Guide “Hang Out with Paul”

Sweepstakes Winners Challenged

by All-Star Forward at Philips Arena Atlanta Hawks All-Star forward Paul Millsap met two lucky winners of the “Hang Out with Paul” sweepstakes following a Hawks practice at Philips Arena. Taylor Prezzano and Will Clifton won their experiences through the sweepstakes by calling **DUNK from their mobile phones.

“It’s always great to interact with our fans,” said Millsap. “This promotion is fun because it allows me to get to know the people who come out and support us. I can’t wait to meet more fans and hang out with them.”

Prezzano played two games of “HORSE” with Millsap on the Hawks practice court. The sweepstakes winner pushed the Hawks big man to scores of “H-O” and “H-O-R” behind an array of long-distance shots and closed-eyed attempts, but was undone by a combination of trick shots and behind-the-backboard swishes converted

by Millsap. Prezzano was also given a pair of Nike basketball shoes signed by Millsap, a Hawks warm-up suit, gym bag and flex ticket package, and a $250 Hawks Shop shopping spree.

“I went on the Hawks’ website and I saw the contest and figured I might as well take a chance and throw my name in there and it worked out in the end,” Prezzano said about entering the sweepstakes. “Honestly, I didn’t think anybody ever won these things.

I thought it was just a marketing ploy, but now that I’ve won it, I’m a believer.”

Millsap took on Clifton in NBA 2K15, challenging the contest winner to a head-to-head contest on Xbox One in the Hawks locker room. After discussing his own basketball experience and checking out the Hawks players’ lounge, Clifton battled through a virtual basketball matchup with Millsap.

Though he was defeated in the video game contest, Clifton won a 50 inch television, an Xbox One gaming system, and copies of NBA 2K15 and Madden NFL. “I told every one of my friends about 10 times that I was going to go play Xbox with Paul Millsap,” said Clifton.

Keep kids engaged and occupied during holiday shopping trips Holiday shopping with kids can be fun.

Kids enjoy giving gifts, and bringing them along on shopping excursions to offer their input can make the season that much more special for youngsters.

But bringing the little ones along on a holiday shopping trip also can be tricky, as kids can easily grow tired or bored at the mall. The following are a few tips to ensure kids and adults enjoy their holiday shopping trips together.

• Bring backup. Kids might find shopping enjoyable at the outset, but visiting store after store can drain them of that enthusiasm.

To quell the inevitable boredom, bring along some backup, such as a handheld video game or a tablet or e-reader on which kids can watch a favorite film or television show.

• Choose your shopping destination wisely. All malls and retailers are

The “Hang Out with Paul” sweepstakes is a year-long promotion that began in April 2014. By dialing **DUNK on their cell phones, fans are entered into the contest and eligible to win an opportunity to meet the All-Star forward. Contest entrants are greeted by a voice recording of Millsap, and also hear from Steve Holman, the “Voice of the Hawks.”

An earlier sweepstakes winner was flown to Las Vegas to watch a Samsung NBA Summer League game with Millsap. In addition to watching the game, the fan won two nights in an IHG hotel and $250 in cash.

For more information on the Atlanta Hawks, visit Hawks.com.

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certainly not equal, especially when kids will be accompanying you for a day of shopping. Some malls offer attractions for kids, such as a merrygo-round or a live performance with a holiday theme. Such attractions provide some balance to a shopping trip, giving kids something to look forward to between store visits.

• Don’t be a Scrooge. An ice cream cone, some holiday cookies or a hot chocolate might not be the healthiest fare for youngsters, but such items can make a shopping excursion that much more enjoyable. When shopping with kids in tow, relax a youngster’s dietary restrictions so they can enjoy some holiday treats while shopping till they drop.

• Give kids some spending money. Kids are more likely to engage themselves in a holiday shopping trip if they have some spending money of their own. Offer children some money before leaving the house, and tell them the money is theirs to spend on gifts as they see fit. Kids might just enjoy looking for the perfect gift and hunting down a holiday bargain as much as Mom and Dad.

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Holiday Holiday Gift Guide HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Tips for an economical, safe holiday season

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The holidays are an occasion for family, friends and joy. Unfortunately, those celebrations and decorations can have unpleasant results – high electric bills, shocks and fires. With a little thought and planning, you can celebrate, save money and stay safe at the same time.

Go LED – Traditional mini lights use 36 watts of power compared to only 5 watts for a string of LED lights, and many are brighter than traditional mini lights. In addition to saving energy, LED lights are generally made of plastic and will not break, and will last up to ten times longer.

Timing is everything – All holiday lights, LED or incandescent, should be placed on a timer. Simple timers cost $20 and can be set to turn on at sunset and off after a set number of hours. A good rule of thumb is to have lights on from sunset until bedtime.

Avoid holiday vampires – Many holiday gifts are also energy vampires that use electricity 24 hours a day, even when they are supposedly turned off, and can account for 5-7 percent of your yearly electric bill. Unplug these devices when they are not being used or place them on a smart power strip.

Entertain for efficiency – Before your guests arrive, turn down the thermostat. It may be cold outside, but once your home begins to fill with people the temperature will begin to rise, and cooking will only add to your home’s warmth.

Skip the preheat -- Most recipes begin with the words “preheat the oven to…” Large pieces of meat such as ham, turkey or a roast do not require a preheated oven. Preheating simply wastes energy. The exceptions to this rule are baked goods.

Make the holidays safe – Too many holidays are marred by electrical

shocks and house fires. Take just a few safety precautions to ensure your holidays are worry-free: Make sure the lights are certified by an independent testing lab such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories).

Turn off all lights before leaving home or going to bed.

If you’re using an extension cord, be sure not to overload it. Don’t use more than three sets of lights per cord.

Do not run cords under rugs or near appliances where they can overheat and cause a fire. If you have a live tree, keep extension cords away from where you water it.

Do not overload electrical outlets.

Make sure all outdoor lighting is plugged into Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles.

Be sure candles are out before going to bed or leaving the house.

Examine lights each year, discarding any that have frayed cords or broken light sockets. “When in doubt, throw them out.”

Before replacing a bulb, unplug the string of lights and make sure to use a replacement bulb of the same voltage and wattage as the original. Never use electric lights on metallic trees.

Use only outdoor lights that are marked for outdoor use. Make sure the power is off when stringing outdoor lights, and attach them to the house with insulated hangers - not metal staples, nails, or tacks. Be sure to keep the light plugs above ground and out of water.

Examine trees you intend to string lights on and make sure no limbs have grown into or near power lines. This can lead to electrical shock.

Make sure ladders are safe and secure before climbing on them.

Bring in this coupon and receive

$10 Off your purchase of $20 or more

A copy of this offer must be presented to your server in order to qualify for this offer. Limit one per person per table. Valid only at Buckhead and Midtown locations. Not valid at airport locations. Will not be accepted toward the purchase of merchandise or gift cards. Cannot be used as gratuity or redeemed for cash. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion or discount. Not valid on alcohol where prohibited. Dinein only. This offer is valid until 1/31/15.

Attn Server: Comp to MKTG$

2 Atlanta locations 3242 Peachtree Road NE • Buckhead • 404-264-0253 848 Peachtree Stree NE • Midtown • 404-870-0805 221139-1

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Holiday Holiday Gift Guide Tickets for Disney’s NEWSIES Atlanta Premiere On Sale Now! Disney Theatrical Productions and Firth Third Bank Broadway in Atlanta are proud to present the highly anticipated Atlanta engagement of Disney’s NEWSIES. The Tony® Award-winning production will begin performances at the Fox Theatre on Tuesday, January 20 for a limited one week engagement through Sunday, January 25 as part of the 2014/2015 Broadway in Atlanta series.

In Atlanta, NEWSIES will play Tuesday through Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available now by visiting foxtheatre. org/newsies, calling 1-855-285-8499 or visiting the Fox Theatre Box Office (660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308). Orders for groups of ten (10) or more may be placed by calling 404881-2000.

NEWSIES, the new American musical, features a Tony® Award-winning score with music by eight-time Academy Award® winner Alan Menken and lyrics by Jack Feldman, a book by four-time Tony® Award winner Harvey Fierstein and is produced

by Disney Theatrical Productions, NEWSIES is directed by Tony® nominee Jeff Calhoun and choreographed

by Christopher Gattelli, who won a 2012 Tony Award® for his work. The entire creative team is reuniting to

bring the break-out smash musical to audiences across North America.

Set in New York City at the turn of the century, NEWSIES is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a ragged band of teenaged ‘newsies,’ who dreams only of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. But when publishing titans Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack finds a cause to fight for and rallies newsies from across the city to strike for what’s right.

NEWSIES is inspired by the reallife ‘Newsboy Strike of 1899,’ when newsboy Kid Blink led a band of orphan and runaway newsies on a twoweek-long action against Pulitzer, Hearst and other powerful newspaper publishers.

Ticket buyers are reminded that the Fox Theatre website and box office are the only official retail ticket outlets for all performances in Atlanta. Ticket buyers who purchase tickets from a ticket broker or any third party should be aware that the Fox Theatre is unable to reprint or replace lost or stolen tickets and is unable to contact patrons with information regarding time changes or other pertinent updates regarding the performance.

Original company, North American Tour of NEWSIES. © Disney. Photo by Deen van Meer

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Holiday Holiday Gift Guide Gwinnett Braves Holiday Packs On Sale Now Four-ticket and 12-ticket options available at Coolray Field LAWRENCEVILLE, GA - With the holidays just around the corner, the Gwinnett Braves are offering the perfect gift for baseball fans of all ages. Holiday Packs are now on sale at the Coolray Field Ticket Office, by phone at (678) 277-0340 and online at

GwinnettBraves.com/holiday.

The “Stocking Stuffer” Pack includes four Baseline Box Vouchers for $28, or four Infield Box Vouchers for $52. Use all four tickets for one game in 2015, one ticket for four separate games, or anywhere in between.

The “Holiday Dozen” Pack works exactly like the “Stocking Stuffer” Pack, but includes 12 tickets and a Gwinnett Braves T-Shirt to wear during the hot summer nights at Coolray Field. Purchase 12 Baseline Box Vouchers for $89, or 12 Infield Box Vouchers for $161.

The Gwinnett Braves begin the 2015 season at Coolray Field on Thursday, April 9 with a 7:05 PM game against the Durham Bulls.

2015 Season Ticket Packages are on sale now by calling the Coolray Field Ticket Office at (678) 277-0340.

Holiday Packs are on sale until December 17, while supplies last.

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Holiday Gift Gift Guide Guide Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker Returns to the Fox Theatre for its 55th Season

Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker returns to the Fox Theatre Dec. 11 – 28 with the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra and the Georgia Youth Choir live for all 20 performances.

Set in the elaborate Moorish décor of the historic Fox Theatre, this unique production of the beloved Nutcracker tale takes 20 pounds of snow, eight tons of scenery, lighting, and props, and a 38-foot-tall Christmas tree to make the magic of Marya’s unbelievable story come to life.

Now in its 55th production, Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker continues to be a treasured holiday tradition shared by multiple generations. Each year, Atlanta Ballet invites more than 200 Atlanta area school children to perform alongside 23 professional company members and four company apprentices in this holiday spectacular.

Atlanta Ballet first brought Nutcracker to the stage in 1959, performing George Balanchine’s version of the timeless tale. In that year, Atlanta Ballet was the only company outside of New York City Ballet allowed to perform this signature piece thanks to Atlanta Ballet’s then Associate Artistic Director Robert Barnett, who had

danced with Balanchine at New York City Ballet.

In 1995, Atlanta Ballet’s third and current artistic director, John McFall, created a brand new Nutcracker for the city of Atlanta. McFall’s vision was to create a Nutcracker that was “traditional yet new, familiar yet different, classic yet contemporary and above all, magical.” Every year since then McFall has added a special touch to the production in an effort to keep it vibrant and fresh.

Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker runs for 20 performances Dec. 11 – 28 at the Fox Theatre. Tickets start as low as $20 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased by phone at 855-ATL-TIXX, in person at the Fox Theatre Box Office and the Atlanta Ballet Box Office, or online at www.atlantaballet.com. For groups of ten or more, call Atlanta Ballet Group Sales at 404-873-5811, ext.

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Holiday Gift Guide Holiday shopping on a budget The economic downturn that began in late 2008 forced many holiday shoppers to curb their spending on gifts for friends and family. But even though the economy has since recovered, savvy holiday shoppers are still taking a conservative approach to their shopping, and saving lots of money along the way.

Shoppers often struggle with how much to spend on gifts for their loved ones come the holiday season. The quest for the perfect gift leads many to overspend, but there are ways holiday shoppers can give great gifts without breaking the bank. * Leave credit cards at home.

Stretching a budget when holiday shopping can be tempting, especially when shoppers come across “can’t miss” gifts they know their loved ones will treasure. Succumbing to such temptation

typically finds holiday shoppers using their credit cards to make purchases they otherwise cannot afford, and that only lands shoppers in post-holiday debt that can be difficult to pay off.

Leaving credit cards at home when shopping for the holidays significantly reduces the likelihood that shoppers will overspend, and it guarantees they won’t be mired in debt come January. * Whittle down your shopping list.

Many holiday shoppers find themselves in financial hot water come the end of the holiday season thanks in large part to seemingly endless holiday shopping lists. Lists may include coworkers, distant cousins, neighbors, and a host of other acquaintances. Whittling down holiday shopping lists can save shoppers money. Contact loose acquaintances and distant relatives to suggest you

stop exchanging gifts come the holidays, saving both parties time and money. * Make a list of gifts. Blindly shopping for holiday gifts can prove disastrous to your finances. Before heading out on a holiday shopping trip, make a list of gifts you intend to buy for each person on your list. This can help you focus your search and reduce the likelihood that you will make potentially costly impulse purchases as you wander around the mall for hours on end. * Avoid last-minute shopping. Lastminute shopping may unearth some great deals, but it’s far more likely to back shoppers into corners as they race against time to complete their holiday shopping. When shopping is put off until the last minute, shoppers don’t have time to comparison shop and find better deals, and that can quickly turn a holi-

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day budget upside down. Begin your holiday shopping as early as possible, and take advantage of holiday sales. * Spread out your shopping. Holiday shoppers with especially long shopping lists can spread out their shopping over several months to reduce the likelihood that they will accumulate credit card debt or run out of cash during the holiday season. Begin shopping in late summer or early fall, periodically buying gifts for loved ones when you have the cash to do so. This has the added benefit of freeing up time during the often hectic holiday season, and it greatly reduces the risk of compiling post-holiday debt.

Many people stretch their budgets during the holiday season. But savvy holiday shoppers can employ several strategies to keep themselves out of debt this holiday season.

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Holiday Gift Guide BODIES...The Exhibition has been Experienced by more than 15 MILLION PEOPLE Worldwide Since the earliest efforts of ancient Egyptians to distinguish individual organs, humankind has been fascinated with uncovering the secrets of the human body. The study of human anatomy remains a cornerstone of medical education. BODIES...The Exhibition provides millions of visitors around the world with unprecedented access to anatomical detail historically only available to medical professionals.

BODIES...The Exhibition offers an intimate and informative view into the human body. Using an innovative preservation process, the Exhibition allows visitors to see the human body’s inner beauty in educational and awe-inspiring ways. Our Exhibitions have over 200 actual human bodies and specimens meticulously dissected and respectfully displayed, offering an unprecedented and wholly

unique view into the amazing body.

Specimens in the Exhibition are prepared through a revolutionary process called polymer preservation, in which human tissue is permanently preserved using liquid silicone rubber. This process creates a specimen that will not decay, offering thousands of unique teaching possibilities for educators at all levels. Preparation time varies: a small organ may take only a week, while a full-body specimen may take up to a year to prepare.

After quality preservation, specimens can last for decades.

Look deep inside the systems of the human body: Skeletal, muscular, nervous, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, endocrine, and circulatory. Come explore, experience, and celebrate the wonder of the human form at BODIES...The Exhibition at Atlantic Station.

Save $4 on up to 6 tickets with promo code GDP at the box office or or online at www.BodiesAtlanta.com!

SAVE $4 OFF up to 6 tickets with code GDP online or at box office!

PREMIER EXHIBITION CENTER • ATLANTIC STATION 265 18TH STREET LEVEL 2 NEAR ESCALATOR 5 ATLANTA, GA 30363

BOX OFFICE (404) 496-4274

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Holiday Gift Guide The Shoppes at Webb Gin The Shoppes at Webb Gin is the place to be whether you are dining out, shopping, relaxing or indulging in some “me” time.

With over 60 specialty stores and restaurants, The Shoppes at Webb Gin has become a true treasure in Gwinnett County. It’s simply the best kept secret in Gwinnett and that has gotten people talking about their favorite Shoppes at Webb Gin moments on social media.

“The positive experiences our customers share have truly been great.

Most recently one of our customers commented about an awesome sauce they enjoyed at Georgia Pine restaurant and now I can’t wait to try it myself.” says Kate Redman, manager at The Shoppes at Webb Gin. Among The Shoppes at Webb Gin’s merchants include great national tenants like Aeropostale, American Eagle Outfitters, Gap, Brighton Collectibles, Carter’s Chico’s, Loft, Victoria’s Secret, White House Black Market, Bonefish Grill, Roman’s Macaroni Grill and Longhorn Steakhouse to name a few. In 2014 The Shoppes at Webb Gin added more great stores to further enhance the shopping experience to include American Threads, Lotus, Brighton

Collectibles, Pure Barre, Saigon Café, Your Pie, Sola Salons and most recently Sprouts Farmers Market.

The Shoppes at Webb Gin definitely needs to be on your list to visit for your holiday shopping this year. “Our shoppers love that they can visit many of the same shops offered at larger indoor malls while enjoying a much more pleasant environment and without dealing with the hassles of the big mall atmosphere.” says Redman.

What’s happening at The Shoppes at Webb Gin this holiday season?

From great store sales, gift with purchase event, free pictures with Santa to the cherished tradition of free carriage rides, The Shoppes at Webb Gin has something special for everyone. For complete listings of stores, sales and events visit us at www.theshoppesatwebbgin.com or www.facebook.com/TheShoppesAtWebbGin The Shoppes at Webb Gin is located in Snellville at the corner of Scenic Highway and Webb Gin House Road.

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Holiday Gift Guide Celebrate the Season at Fernbank Museum Fernbank Museum of Natural History features several ways to celebrate with fun and unique events including festive tree displays, global experiences, holiday-themed events and more.

Your family will ooh and aah over two floors of twinkling, beautifully decorated trees showcasing celebrations around the world in the enchanting Winter Wonderland exhibition.

Twinkling with lights, glimmering with color and shining with a variety of cultural objects, more than 30 trees and other displays recognize the diversity of celebrations, holidays, traditions and events from around the world.

A special Winter Wonderland Seek & Find will be available. Use this free self-guided activity as you explore the exhibition and see if you can match the photos to the displays. A great activity for families.

Special Holiday Programming Holly Jolly Activities will be offered every weekend November 27 – December 21 featuring classic holiday cartoons, puppet making crafts, appearances by Santa-saurus and more.

Adults can enjoy music, films, small plates, a nip from a yuletide toddy and more as they enjoy evening viewing hours of

Winter Wonderland during Martinis & IMAX® on November 21, December 5, December 12 and December 19.

Give the Gift of Fernbank Museum Share the joy and wonder of Fernbank Museum this holiday season!

Give a gift membership, gift certificate or find the perfect present in the Museum Store.

For tickets and details, visit FernbankMuseum.org/Winter or call 404.929.6300. Fernbank Museum is conveniently located near Emory University. Parking is free.

Fernbank Museum will be closed on November 27 and December 25 but will be open during normal business hours throughout the remaining holiday season.

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Holiday Holiday Gift Gift Guide Guide Help Your Waistline Survive the Holidays

Finding time during the holiday season

The average Thanksgiving meal adds up to nearly 1900 calories—almost as much as what the average person should consume in a typical day. Between the turkey, stuffing and pecan pie, Thanksgiving can be a difficult time to resist temptation, but with a little will power and the right knowledge, you CAN avoid packing on those pesky holiday pounds.

Courtesy of Northside Hospital Diabetes & Nutrition Services

Remember – weight gain prevention is much easier than trying to diet after the holidays.

Northside Hospital offers these healthy eating guidelines to help: • Don’t skip meals to “save room” for a holiday feast. You just end up bingeing later.

• Eat a light, low calorie, highfiber meal before going to a holiday party or dinner to keep you in control of your appetite and make it harder to overeat.

• Drink lots of water – at least eight cups a day. Don’t waste calories on other beverages.

• Bring your own healthy dish and you can be guaranteed that it is good for you.

• Look for ways to “skinny down” your favorite holiday fare. Study health-conscious cookbooks and magazines for clever substitutes.

• Survey all the food available first, then pick only what you really want. Turkey is lean and healthy, especially the white meat. Avoid the skin and trimmings. Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables.

Skip the cheese and sauces. Choose just one starchy food – either stuffing, bread OR potatoes… not all of them.

• Eat in moderation. Practice portion control. Stop when you no longer feel hungry, not when you are stuffed.

• Set pre-meal goals to help you keep control of your eating. Make plans to skip seconds or to have just one indulgence.

• Eat dessert a few hours after dinner to allow time to digest your meal. Indulge on the things you only get during the holidays and eat only partial servings of each.

• Sit down to eat. Emphasize conversation and socializing instead of the food. We don’t realize how much we have eaten when we pick at food while standing.

• After a big dinner, go for a walk and then try to eat lighter the next couple of days.

To watch videos with Northside Hospital experts and learn more about healthy eating this holiday season, visit www.northside.com/healthcast.

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Perhaps no time of year is as busy as the holiday season, when social engagements and holiday shopping combine to dominate so much of what is normally our free time. Additionally, holiday travel and late nights spent at work to make up for lost time also cut into our free time, leaving many people in search of ways to add more hours to the day.

Though there’s no way to make a day last longer, there are ways to save some time this holiday season.

• Go it alone. Holiday shopping can be very time consuming, but shoppers who decide to shop alone may find themselves more productive and focused on the task at hand.

• Plan ahead. Whether shopping for holiday gifts, taking the family to buy a Christmas tree or organizing a holiday dinner with friends, the more you can plan ahead of the holiday season the less time you will waste once the season hits full swing. For example, when choosing a weekend to go Christmas tree shopping, inform others a few weeks in advance and let them know you want to go early to avoid crowds. This saves you time and might just help you land one of the best trees on the lot.The same principle of planning can be applied

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to other aspects of the holiday season as well. Planning a meal early allows you to gradually stock up on menu items, saving you the hassle of rushing to the store at the last minute or planning a menu in the days before the party when you will already have enough on your plate.

• Don’t shy away from shortcuts when hosting holiday dinners. Hosting a holiday dinner is a big undertaking, one that often finds hosts spending a significant amount of time in the kitchen. But hosts can save time by taking some shortcuts regarding the menu. For instance, when hosting an especially large meal, don’t be afraid to buy some premade side dishes from a local grocery store or buy a bakery cake rather than whipping up your own homemade dessert. Guests will understand if you cut some corners in an effort to save some time, and the food will likely be just as delicious.

• Stay home. Travel is a big commitment come the holiday season, but what about staying home this season? If the time commitment of traveling is something you truly want to avoid this year, invite some friends and family over to your home instead. You might be more busy on the day of the holiday, but you will save yourself the travel days you usually build into the holiday season.

Parents of young children might prefer to stay home so they can create their own unique holiday memories, while those without children might just appreciate some peace and quiet during this hectic time of year.

Holiday Holiday Gift Guide Greater Gwinnett Championship Gives Back to the community

Give the gift of golf this holiday season by purchasing tickets to the Greater Gwinnett Championship Presented by Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating, an official event on the PGA TOUR’s Champions Tour.

This year’s golf tournament will take place the week of April 13-19, 2015 at the prestigious TPC Sugarloaf in Duluth, GA. There are a variety of ticket options to choose from with grounds admission starting at just $20 and 2-for-1 Weekly Badges on sale for $55. Or enjoy a higher order of golf viewing in the groovy Mellow Mushroom Chill Club. Tickets in this open-air tent on the par-three 16th hole include a

meal provided by Mellow Mushroom and one alcoholic beverage or CocaCola product.

Be a gift giving hero by purchasing an amateur playing position in the State Bank Pro-Am. Participants in the Pro-Am will have the opportunity of a lifetime as they play alongside a Champions Tour professional. The memories created by playing with the likes of Miguel Angel Jimenez or Bernhard L a n g e r will not be forgotten.

W h e t h e r purchasing tickets or gifting a spot in the State Bank Pro-Am you are doing more than providing a great experience for your family and friends; you are making a difference in the community.

Proceeds from the 2015 Greater Gwinnett Championship will benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Gwinnett Medical Center Foundation.

For more information and to purchase visit GreaterGwinnettChampionship. com or call 770-232-7872.

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Holiday Gift Guide Tips for getting greeting cards out on time Millions of greeting cards are sent out each holiday season. Estimates suggest that 85 percent of the United States population, or roughly 250 million people, mails out greeting cards.

That adds up to billions of cards going through the postal system -- and all in a relatively short period of time.

Men and women who hope to send holiday greeting cards must purchase, prepare and mail the cards early enough so they are received prior to the holiday. It is never too early to begin greeting card preparation and assembly.

The majority of cards are bought in boxed packages or groupings of photo cards. Gone are the days of hand-picking individual greeting cards for every recipient. This trend toward generaltheme cards has streamlined the process and can help senders start their tasks earlier than ever before. Some people like to take advantage of postholiday sales to stock up on greeting cards for the following year at a deep discount. This means they can write the cards out at their leisure and then simply toss them into the mailbox at the appropriate time.

Much in the way people begin their holiday shopping or decorating right after the Thanksgiving turkey leftovers have been stored away, a good majority of people also begin their greeting card writing after Thanksgiving as well. Those who want their cards to arrive first will mail them within a few days of Thanksgiving.

When sent domestically, it is safe to assume that cards mailed out up to 2 weeks before Christmas will arrive on time. After that point, you may be risking lateness, particularly for rural delivery addresses unless cards are sent priority. For those who need to mail cards internationally, stick-

ing close to the end of November will ensure they arrive in a timely manner.

People who want to make a statement and not have their greeting cards get lost in the crowd may intentionally mail them late and lean toward wishing health and prosperity for the new year, rather than sending a card tied to a specific holiday. This gives extra time for mailing and will set cards apart from the many others.

Photo cards have grown in popularity, and people interested in having a professional photographer shoot their holiday card photos would be wise to make an appointment as early as possible. Popular photographers often start holiday photo shoots in October. Keep in mind that the photographs can take a while to be processed and arrive. For those who are on borrowed time, taking a photo with a personal camera and having prints made up at a pharmacy or retail store can save time. It is unlikely that professional photos taken in December can be printed and mailed and still arrive on time.

Also, be sure to heed copyright laws concerning photographs. It may be illegal to scan an image from a photographer or photo studio and have prints made without written permission.

Postage is another thing that will have to be considered when mailing out cards. While many cards fall under the weight and size limits of a regular first class postage stamp, unusually shaped envelopes or heavy greeting cards may cost more. Rather

than have them returned, it is a good idea to have at least one card weighed at the post office to ensure the right amount of postage is affixed. Some cards will be packaged with envelopes that state “Additional postage may be required” right on the box.

Greeting cards are an important component of the holiday season. Ensuring they arrive on time requires planning and sending them out with ample time to spare.

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Holiday Gift Guide Tips for early bird holiday shoppers Getting a head start on holiday shopping has its advantages. Holiday shoppers who begin their quests for the perfect gifts at the onset of the season or before the shopping season even begins often find the financial sting of holiday shopping is easier to manage when spread out over time, and starting early can save shoppers the hassle of navigating their ways through crowded stores and packed parking lots.

But even holiday shoppers who hit the stores extra early should do so with a plan in hand, which can help shoppers save money while still finding the right gifts. * Establish and stick to a budget.

Just because you may be starting your holiday shopping early does not mean you should throw financial caution to the wind. Establish a budget so holiday shopping won’t find you facing significant debt, which is just as difficult to deal with in late fall as it is once the holidays have come and gone. . Once you have established your holiday shopping budget, stick to it and avoid the temptation of overspending just because you’re starting early. * Take your time. Arguably the greatest luxury of getting a head start on holiday shopping is the ability to take your time so you don’t end up making expensive impulse purchases. Such purchases may be

your only option if you wait until the last minute to start shopping, but starting early enables you to take your time and comparison shop so you can find the best deal. Make the most of this extra time, and you’re liable to save a substantial amount of money over the course of the season. * Take advantage of early bird offers. Many online retailers want consumers to begin their holiday shopping early, so they offer incentives to shoppers who beat the holiday rush.

Such retailers may waive shipping and handling charges or wrap gifts free of charge for shoppers who begin their holiday shopping early in the season. These offers typically disappear once the season hits full swing, so early bird shoppers should take advantage of such offers whenever possible. * Get creative. Starting early may allow some holiday shoppers to skip the process of shopping altogether. Creative men and women with unique skills such as woodworking or making pottery may be able to create their own holiday gifts. Homemade gifts will likely take more time to create, but starting early allows you to go at your own pace while still ensuring your special gift will be ready to go come the holidays.

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Holiday Holiday Gift Guide Snow is Coming to LanierWorld at Lanier Islands

As the name might suggest, SnowWorld is all about the SNOW! Held in conjunction with Lanier Islands Christmas featuring a newly re-imagined holiday light show, SnowWorld will comprise 5 thrilling speed slides featuring slick “icy” surfaces in place of water, a snowy 13-lane tube slide, 4 snow play zones, ice skating at the Polar rink*, a number of family-friendly eateries, and firepits for roasting marshmallows that will be open during the day and into the evening on select dates. Once the sun goes down, the lights go up for a blended car ride and strolling illumination experience that winds through the resort and into SnowWorld. In addition to dozens of animated holiday-themed light displays, the Lanier Islands Christ-

mas will include the SnowWorld Village with holiday shopping, carnival rides and games, visits with Santa, and so much more.

“SnowWorld is a completely new all-day offering that has been several years in the making and we are really excited about its launch,” explains Chairman of the Board for Lanier Islands, Virgil Williams.

“For the first few weeks, it will coincide with Lanier Islands Christmas – a new interpretation of our famous Magical Nights of Lights.

Those two events combined make the resort THE ideal holiday-themed get-away for families – and I haven’t even mentioned special dining events and accommodation packages at the Lodge! Once the holidays have come to an end, SnowWorld will remain in full swing on weekends until the beginning of March as we strive to offer something truly unique for families all four seasons of the year.”

The excitement is expected to really snowball when the NEW Lanier Islands Christmas opens nightly November 21 through December 31, 2014, and the NEW SnowWorld opens on select days through March 1, 2015. For more information about the coolest experience to hit Hotlanta in decades, please visit www.lanierislands.com or www.snowworldga.com.

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Holiday Gift Guide Save money this Cyber Monday While Black Friday, the day when many retailers drastically reduce their prices in recognition of the first official day of the holiday shopping season, remains wildly popular among holiday shoppers, in recent years the day after Thanksgiving has gotten some competition in the way of Cyber Monday.

Cyber Monday is the Monday after Thanksgiving when many retailers, in particular those that are online-only, offer heavy discounts via their websites.

Instead of Black Friday traditions like waiting outside stores in the wee hours of the morning, holiday shoppers who can wait until Cyber Monday to start buying gifts can do so from the comforts of their homes or offices.

Many Cyber Monday discounts are already set in stone. But savvy shoppers can employ a few additional strategies to make sure they’re saving as much money as possible.

• Be ready to buy. In the days leading up to Cyber Monday, make a list of what you want and, if possible, which retailers will have the best deals on those items (retailers may or may not advertise their Cyber Monday deals in advance). Some retailers only offer Cyber Monday deals during a relatively small window of time, so you don’t want to waste time comparing prices with other retailers and risk missing out on a great deal. Knowing what you want also increases the likelihood that you will get what you want on Cyber Monday, which may enable you to take advantage of free shipping deals that won’t be available later in the season.

• Buy smart. When shopping on Cyber Monday, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by sticker prices. But even the most heavily discounted items may be subject to substantial fees, negating the savings and, in certain instances, costing you more money than if you

were to simply buy the item in-store.

Before making any purchases on Cyber Monday, determine the shipping and handling fees and any other additional costs that may offset the deal you think you’re getting. If a deal is simply too tempting to resist, see if there is an instore pickup option to save you the cost of shipping and handling.

• Know the rules. Just because you won’t be waiting in line outside a store in the middle of the night on Black Friday does not necessarily mean you won’t have to get up early to take full advantage of Cyber Monday deals. In the course of doing your Cyber Monday homework, you may find certain items that you simply must have. When you find these deals, read the fine print so you know the rules regarding each specific deal. Some may say “while supplies last” or “limited supply.” In such instances, determine when the sale starts and be ready to go the moment the item goes on sale.

• Resist temptation. Cyber Monday deals are often hard to resist, but holiday shoppers should stay disciplined and buy only those gifts they need and not heavily discounted items they are unlikely to use. Buying items you don’t need can stretch your holiday budget and distract you from the shopping you need to do.

• Stack ‘em up. Stacking is a term used to describe the use of multiple coupons or discount codes on a single purchase. Many retailers do not allow customers to stack discounts, but some do. Take advantage of those that do.

Cyber Monday has grown in popularity as more and more consumers do their holiday shopping online. But shoppers can save even more money if they employ a few saving strategies this Cyber Monday.

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