Gwinnett Daily Post Special Section - Gift Guide1 2010 by Gwinnett Daily Post

A delicious confection of charm, sparkle and talent by the sleigh load. CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE, the first show of the Gas South Broadway Series, lights up the 2010 Holiday Season when it transforms the stage at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre into a wonderland of fantasy and disbelief, Tuesday, November 30 – Sunday, December 5, 2010. Cirque Dreams, an American theatrical production company, brings its critically acclaimed entertainment brand to Atlanta for eight glorious holiday performances. Created and directed by Neil Goldberg, creator of the groundbreaking Broadway hit CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY, CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE is "so full of energy it could end our dependence on oil" according to the New York Daily News and "a delicious confection of charm, sparkle and talent by the sleigh load." The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle raves, "even the Grinch would be impressed with this Christmas wonderland." "Stuffed with so much holiday cheer and audacious acts, Scrooge would exit with a big ol' smile on his face," hails the Erie Times News about this "Broadway-worthy spectacle." "The perfect way to come in from the cold, forget the holiday stresses and find the magic of the season", proclaims The Oakland

Press. Tickets are on sale now. CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE is an original musical extravaganza of ornaments that come to life when costumed characters perform astonishing feats that celebrate the holiday season with spectacle, imagination and whimsical dreams. An international cast of 30 artists transform into gingerbread men flipping mid air, toy soldiers marching on thin wires, snowmen daringly balancing, icemen powerfully sculpting, penguins spinning, puppets caroling and reindeer soaring high above a landscape of holiday wonderment. Some holiday favorites accompany an original musical score with hundreds of spectacular costumes adorning a magical tree of dreams in a setting of gigantic gifts, colossal candy canes and 30-foot tall towering toy soldiers. Performances of CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE at the Cobb Energy Centre will be held Tuesday, November 30 thru Sat.,

December 4 at 8:00 pm, Sunday, December 5 at 7:30 pm and two matinees, Saturday,

December 4 and Sunday, December 5 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are affordably priced from $20.00 - $63.00, plus service charges and are available at the Bank of North Georgia Box Office at the Cobb Energy Centre, all Ticketmaster outlets locations, Ticketmaster.com or via phone at 800-745-3000. The box office, located at 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339, is open Monday thru Friday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., closed on Sundays. Group discounts for 15 or more are available by calling 770-509-2301. The venue is located at 2800 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339.

Page 2 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

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Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 3

Celebrate the Season at Fernbank Museum’s Winter Wonderland Celebrate the holidays with Fernbank Museum’s new exhibition and programming series Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World. On view through January 5, 2011, Winter Wonderland features trees decorated by community partners and Consulate offices that twinkle with lights, glimmer with

color, and shine with cultural ornaments and emblems that recognize the diversity of celebrations, holidays, traditions and events around the world. You won’t want to miss Fernbank’s festive Winter Wonderland programming as cultural groups and special guests entertain visitors with performances, dancing, music, craft demonstrations, storytelling and more.

Winter Wonderland Celebrations & Traditions Around the World

Highlights include: • See Winter Wonderland after dark with extended hours on Nov. 19, 21, 26 and 27, and December 12, 17, 19 and 26. • Enjoy special activities, performances, crafts and games during Winter Wonderland Celebration Weekends on November 20-21 and December 11-12. • Get in the spirit during a special holiday-edition of Martinis & IMAX® Holiday Fest on November 26. • Enjoy the season’s greetings with the Georgia Boy Choir, ornament-making crafts and a special appearance by “Santasaurus!” during Caroling and Cupcakes: A Winter Wonderland Celebration on December 4. • Warm up to the holiday season with Peppermintini cocktails, free hors d’oeuvres from Serpas Restaurant, and the sights of Winter Wonderland after dark with B98.5 FM’s Vicki Lock and the Morning Show team during the Winter Wonderland Cocktail Party on December 8. Fernbank Museum members can see the exhibition and attend many of the programming opportunities for free. To purchase a membership or give a gift membership, call 404.929.6340. Visit fernbankmuseum.org for admission prices, tickets and visitor information.

Page 4 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

Give the gift of entertainment this holiday season Broadway Across America Atlanta Holiday Package Announced Help spread some Broadway magic with the gift that keeps giving all season long! The recently announced Broadway Across America – Atlanta Mini Season Package includes classics such as West Side Story and Hair, as well as a Tony Award nominated newcomer, Shrek the Musical, and the high-energy ballroom dancing spectacular, Burn

the Floor. than ever for Atlantans. “Our new holiday pack- Tickets can be purchased age enables theatre fans to through December 31 gift an experience that will online anytime at resonate throughout the www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com year,” said Stephanie Park- or by phone at 800-278er, vice president of Broad- 4447 (Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) way Across America – Show dates include: Atlanta. “This mini season West Side Story line up features some of this January 25 – 30, 2011 season’s most anticipated Burn the Floor shows at prices that can March 22 – 27, 2011 accommodate any budget.” Shrek the Musical With packages starting April 26 – May 1, 2011 as low as $52, reserving Hair seats and spreading the joy May 17 – 22, 2011 to loved ones will be easier

A: Burn The Floor: Mirko Scolian and Nuria Santalucia. Photo Credit: Joan Marcus. B: Hair National Tour. Pictured: The Company. © Joan Marcus 2010. C: West Side Story Broadway company. Photo by Joan Marcus. D: SHREK: DreamWorks Theatricals & Neal Street Productions present SHREK THE MUSICAL. PHOTO CREDIT: ©2010 DreamWorks Theatricals (Joan Marcus) Pictured: Eric Petersen (Shrek), Alan Mingo, Jr. (Donkey), Haven Burton (Princess Fiona). gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 5

Christmas is coming to historic downtown Lawrenceville A family tradition for over two decades continues in the county seat once again, as Gwinnett residents flock to historic downtown Lawrenceville. Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation (GCPR) is proud to continue to host the annual Lighting of the Tree event along with additional sponsors HayesChrysler-Dodge, Gwinnett Daily Post, Food Lion and Carey-Paul Honda. The beautifully decorated 30foot Norway Spruce, donated by the Lawrenceville Trade and Tourism Association, will be lit on Thanksgiving night, Thursday, Nov.

25. Get the feel of the holiday season with live music, face painting, dance performances, Santa and many other activities! Thousands of lights and smiling faces gather for the festivities on Thanksgiving night on the grounds of the grand Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. The Class Act Band will usher in the tree lighting ceremony with musical excitement followed by the much anticipated arrival of Santa in a vintage fire truck on loan from the Winder Fire Department. The beautifully decorated Christmas tree, historic cour-

thouse and Santa’s Magical Forest will remain on display throughout the season. The festivities continue through Dec. at Holiday on the Square as the Santa Trolley rolls into town the following weekend, Dec. 3, 4 and 5 from 5 - 8 p.m. so you can take in the sights and sounds of the holiday season! The Holiday on the Square activities continue all month. Santa will be inside the festive Gwinnett Historic Courthouse on Dec. 10, 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19 from 5 – 8 p.m. for visits and pictures! Photos are provided for only $5 each. Kids can

even visit a special Elf Workshop and make a craft for only $1. Visitors can also take a free tour of the historic courthouse, beautifully decorated for the season ~ there is something special in every corner! If you can’t make it on a weekend, don’t fret! Two special weekdays are available to make a last-minute visit to Santa. On Dec. 20 or 21 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Santa will be making a special trip to the historic courthouse to get everyone’s requests in before the big day. Pictures, Elf Workshop crafts, courthouse

tours and live entertainment will be available as well! For those families wanting some special time with the jolly ole elf, Breakfast with Santa will be available at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse on Nov. 27 and Dec. 11 from 9 – 11 a.m. This memorable event includes breakfast, holiday activities and a souvenir photo. It’s only $8/child and $10/adult, pre-registration is required. You won’t want to miss out on a unique holiday experience offered this year by GCPR at various park locations throughout the

county. “Who Broke Christmas?” is a fun, interactive dinner theater for kids of all ages! Set on the eve of Christmas Eve and the Master Tinker must inspect all the toys before they are loaded onto Santa’s sleigh. When toys begin falling apart the elves will need your help to solve the mystery and save Christmas! The event includes a kidfriendly buffet dinner, funfilled goody bags, and an interactive holiday mystery! It’s only $15/person, preregistration is required. For details or to register for special holiday events hosted by Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation, visit www.gwinnettparks.com.

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Page 6 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

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Gobble up this turkey trivia younger male, because the young “tom” is stringy. Conversely, younger female hens are preferred to older ones. • A turkey less than 16 weeks old is called a fryer.

An older turkey between 5 to 7 months of age is known as a roaster. • Turkeys are a type of pheasant. They are the only breed of poultry native to the Western Hemisphere. • Wild turkeys are able to fly for short durations and up to 55 mph. However, domesticated turkeys raised on farms for food are bred to be fat and meaty, which prevents their ability to get airborne. • The turkey is no exception to other birds. Sometimes it likes to spend the night in Roughly 45 million turkeys are sold and cooked for Thanksgiving meals every trees. year in the United States. As families dig into that delicious meal, some may • Benjamin Franklin was one wonder more about the delicious bird before them. Here are some known and lesser-known facts about Tom Turkey. • The taste of turkeys has to do with their age. An older male is preferable to a

person who argued vehemently on behalf of the turkey being the national symbol of America. However, as most know, the bald eagle won out. • The first turkey was domesticated in Mexico and Central America. In Mexico, the turkey was a sacrificial bird. • Male turkeys make the commonly known “gobble”

sound, particularly during breeding seasons to attract a mate. Females, however, cluck. • A mature turkey will have about 3,500 feathers. That’s a lot of plucking to do before the bird can be eaten. • Minnesota and North Carolina produce the most turkeys for sale annually. • The skin that hangs from a

turkey’s neck is known as a wattle. The fleshy growth on the base of the beak is known as the snood. • Every year 90 percent of Americans enjoy a turkey dinner for Thanksgiving, compared to 50 percent on Christmas. • America doesn’t consume the most turkey per capita; Israel does.

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25 Most Popular Holiday Songs of the Last Decade Even though the first decade of the 21st century witnessed a change in how nearly everyone acquires and listens to music, some things about music -- especially holiday music -- may never change. According to the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, the following 25 songs were the most performed holiday songs of the first decade of the 21st century. The data was compiled with the aide of Mediaguide, the most comprehensive digital audio performance tracking technology in the world.

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1. Winter Wonderland Written by: Felix Bernard, Richard B. Smith Performed by: Eurythmics 2. The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) Written by: Mel Torme, Robert Wells Performed by: Nat "King" Cole 3. Sleigh Ride Written by: Leroy Anderson, Mitchell Parish Performed by: The Ronettes 4. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas Written by: Ralph Blane, Hugh Martin Performed by: The Pretenders 5. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town Written by: Fred Coots, Haven Gillespie Performed by: Bruce Springsteen 6. White Christmas Written by: Irving Berlin Performed by: Bing Crosby 7. Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Written by: Sammy Cahn, Jule Styne Performed by: Michael Buble 8. Jingle Bell Rock Written by: Joseph Carleton Beal, James Ross Boothe Performed by: Daryl Hall & John Oates 9. Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer Written by: Johnny Marks Performed by: Gene Autry 10. Little Drummer Boy Written by: Katherine K. Davis, Henry V. Onorati, Harry Simeone Performed by: The Harry Simeone Chorale & Orchestra

Page 8 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

11. It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year Written by: Edward Pola, George Wyle Performed by: Andy Williams 12. I'll Be Home For Christmas Written by: Walter Kent, Kim Gannon, Buck Ram Performed by: Josh Groban 13. Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree Written by: Johnny Marks Performed by: Brenda Lee 14. Silver Bells Written by: Jay Livingston, Ray Evans Performed by: Anne Murray 15. Feliz Navidad Written and Performed by: Jose Feliciano 16. Frosty The Snowman Written by: Steve Nelson, Walter E. Rollins Performed by: The Beach Boys 17. A Holly Jolly Christmas Written by: Johnny Marks Performed by: Burl Ives 18. Blue Christmas Written by: Billy Hayes, Jay W. Johnson Performed by: Elvis Presley 19. It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas Written by: Meredith Willson Performed by: Johnny Mathis 20. I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus Written by: Tommie Connor (PRS) Performed by: John Mellencamp 21. Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) Written by: Gene Autry, Oakley Haldeman Performed by: Gene Autry 22. (There's No Place Like) Home For The Holidays Written by: Bob Allen, Al Stillman Performed by: Perry Como 23. Carol Of The Bells Written by: Peter J. Wilhousky, Mykola Leontovich Performed by: David Foster (instrumental version) 24. Wonderful Christmastime Written and Performed by: Paul McCartney (PRS) 25. Do They Know It's Christmas? (Feed the World) Written by: Midge Ure (PRS), Bob Geldof (PRS) Performed by: Band Aid gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 9

Unearthing the Origins of the Christmas Tree

Catch the Holiday Spirit at Atlanta-Area Simon Malls! Atlanta-area Simon malls will deck the halls this season with plenty of holiday cheer and entertainment. Gwinnett Place Mall, Lenox Square, Mall of Georgia, Northlake Mall, Phipps Plaza and Town Center at Cobb are offering a variety of special holiday treats for the whole family. Here are just a few at Mall of Georgia: Mall of Georgia 3333 Buford Dr. 678.482.8788 • Photos with Santa: Now through December 24. Visit Santa at his holiday home in the lower level Nordstrom Wing. Santa will be available daily, with the exception of Thanksgiving Day; hours and photo package pricing available at www.mallofgeorgia.com. • Pet Photos with Santa: December 5, from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Bring out your furry

friends to have their holiday photo taken with Santa! Please enter through the mall entrance between Nordstrom and Belk adjacent to Woodward Crossing Boulevard. *No exotic animals permitted. • Simon Kidgits Club Breakfast with Santa: December 4, from 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. in the Food Court. Enjoy holiday crafts, breakfast, and personal time with Santa himself! Free breakfast for Simon Kidgits Club Members, while supplies last. Breakfast for nonmembers costs $5, which includes an annual Simon Kidgits Club membership. Guests wishing to attend must RSVP at Guest Services or email mmr4852@simon.com. • The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program: November 26 – December 11 (Monday-Saturday), from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Mall of Georgia partners with The Salvation Army on their annual holiday Angel Tree program, which provides new clothing and toys for children of families in need. For more information, visit www.salvationarmytreeusa.org. • Parking on Demand: Looking to take the hassle out of parking when doing your holiday shopping? Visit www.mallofgeorgia.com to sign up for Parking on Demand, a new program allowing shoppers to callahead or go online to make parking reservations for some of the best spaces at the center – just in time for the holiday season! Sign up for this program now to take advantage of the free trial period running through January 2. To learn more about Simon malls, including information on Simon Kidgits Club and holiday mall hours, visit www.simon.com.

From Christmas stockings and mistletoe to smiling Santas and burning yule logs, the symbols of the season are so powerful that people seldom stop to think about their origins. But one of the most common symbols of Christmas --at least in the United States and Canada -- is the twinkling Christmas tree, which is often depicted with piles of shiny gifts under its bottom branches. While most of us take these kinds of holiday images for granted, many of us aren’t sure where the traditions started or how they became associated with Christmas.Whether you’ve always wondered about the origins of the Christmas tree or are simply in need of some seasonal small talk for this year’s holiday parties, the following should add some insight into the origins of this popular holiday tradition. A Growing Tradition In the U.S. and Canada, the Christmas tree has become one of the foremost symbols of the holiday season. But the origin of the beloved holiday evergreen has been debated for centuries, with some historians asserting that it has Christian roots and others contending that its roots are pagan. However, many explanations trace the custom of having a decorated evergreen tree inside the home to 16th century Germany, while others go back 300 years earlier to a tradition that began with the Miracle Plays sponsored by local churches. While its specific origin is unclear, we do know that the Christmas tree tradition spread first across Europe and then throughout the world. In the U.S., Christmas trees were first seen in communities with prominent German populations in the late 18th and early 19th century.Two communities in particular -- Windsor Locks, Connecticut and Easton, Pennsylvania -- lay claim to being the “birthplace”of the American Christmas tree tradition. Throughout the world, Christmas trees are a symbol of the continuation of life through the dark, cold months of winter and are linked both to the winter solstice and the belief that the birth of Jesus brought light into the world. In many parts of the world, Christmas trees have long been set up and taken down according to the calendar. Traditionally, they were brought into the

Page 10 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

house on Christmas Eve and removed the day after Twelfth Night (January 6th), and varying from these dates was considered bad luck. Red + Green = Christmas While the colors green and red are now synonymous with Christmas, the association of these colors with the holiday originally had nothing to do with Santa, elves or even mistletoe. Like so much holiday lore, the origins of the red-andgreen Christmas theme have long been debated, but the explanation that appears to be most deeply rooted in fact begins in 14th century Europe, when Adam and Eve’s Day was celebrated each year on December 24th. At that time, churches presented dramatic performances -called Miracle Plays -- that were intended to teach religious topics to a largely illiterate population. For Adam and Eve’s Day, people gathered to watch the “Paradise Play,” which presented the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Since no apple trees were available in the middle of winter to represent the Tree of Good and Evil on stage, a pine tree with apples tied to its branches was used instead. The use of a “makeshift” apple tree worked so well that many churches adopted its use. The “Paradise Tree” eventually became so popular in Germany that people started to erect evergreen trees in their homes and decorate them with red apples. Over time, the green of the trees and the red of the apples became widely associated with the celebration of Christmas. Light Up the Holiday Before the invention of the light bulb, families in many parts of the world brought light into their homes during the cold holiday season by placing candles in their Christmas trees.While this custom was extremely dangerous and caused many fires, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that most people had access to electric Christmas tree lights. Edward H. Johnson, a friend and business partner of Thomas Edison, was the first to string together lights for the purpose of decorating a Christmas tree in 1882. However, Christmas light kits were not available until 1903 and, until then, only very wealthy families could afford to light up their trees.

Holiday gift ideas from the Gwinnett Braves With the holiday season in full swing, let the Gwinnett Braves check a few items off of your to-do list. From hosting your holiday party to finding great gift ideas, the G-Braves are a one-stop shop when it comes to helping you make it through this crazy time of year. The Gwinnett Braves, Triple A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, have rolled out a variety of ticket packages that make the perfect gift for every type of fan. Anytime Tickets make a great stocking stuffer and are an affordable option for anyone on your list.

These vouchers can be purchased in groups of four or more and are valid for any game in the 2011 season. As a holiday bonus, receive a free GBraves Hat with a purchase of ten or more Anytime Tickets before December 22nd! Also available in time for the holidays are memberships to our Kids Club. New for 2011- all members of Chopper’s Clubhouse will receive a free ticket to every Sunday home game! Membership in the club also includes a free kids club t-shirt and member-

ship card, an autograph ses- and invitations to Kids sion with the players, month- Club only events and ly e-newsletter, exclusive offers from VIP line for Gwinnett Braves Race the sponsors! MemberBases folships are $20, lowing with discounts every on multiple Sunday children per game,

gwinnettdailypost.com •

family as well as season ticket holders. In addition to 72 home games throughout the season, Coolray Field also hosts many outside events all year round. If you are looking for a unique and affordable location to host a holiday party, company meeting, or other group outing, consider Coolray Field as an option. Suites make a great setting for both corporate and personal get-togethers all while offering a view of the ballpark. We can accommodate any size group with indoor space available for upwards of 150 people. Partial and Full Season Ticket Plans with the

Gwinnett Braves are an affordable way to catch all of the action at Coolray Field. They also make great gifts! From our weekender plan to half season plan, you can secure your same seat for all of your games while also saving money on the ticket price. Season tickets are more affordable than ever with plans starting at $432 and added value benefits that you can only get as a season ticket holder. To learn more about these exciting opportunities, call our front offices at 678-277-0340 or log on to GwinnettBraves.com

Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 11

Gingerbread Festival and Contest to benefit Suwanee Performing Arts Build a “Fantasy Christmas” themed Gingerbread House and enter to win great prizes while benefiting a local non-profit, Suwanee Performing Arts (SPA). The annual Gingerbread Festival brings together local individuals, families, organizations and businesses during the holidays for fun, entertainment and fundraising for SPA, local schools and the Gwinnett Community Food Bank. Prizes will be awarded to the entries that are most creative, have the best use of candy and theme and the best in show. The event will be

held on Saturday, December require a$10 donation to ben4 at Suwanee Arts Academy efit SPA. (341 Main Street), which For more information, visit houses SPA, from 3-6:30 pm. suwaneeperformingarts.org or call 678.482.6333. Gingerbread House entries must be delivered between 911 am the day of the event. Use imagination and lighting if you wish to create your fantasy Christmas! In addition to the Gingerbread House contest, two divisions of SPA, Suwanee Youth Ballet and Sounds of Suwanee vocalists will perform. The entry fee to the festival is one can of food for the Gwinnett Community Food Bank and entries for the contest

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Fly to Neverland in World’s First 360-Degree CGI Live Theater By Jan Anderson High-Tech Presentation of Peter Pan at Pemberton Place presented by British Production Company threesixty entertainment starts January 21, 2011

Snug in a cushy theater seat just a few rows from the stage, you happily settle in to enjoy threesixty entertainment’s presentation of the familiar story of J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan performing at Pemberton Place beginning January 21, staged in a beautiful white tent set up adjacent to World of CocaCola. You’ve seen the play many times in many productions, but this time as you watch Peter, Wendy, John, and Michael rise in flight from the stage, you’re gripped by a new sensation: your feet seem to be leaving the ground! That’s because the theater in which you’re seated is the first in the world to integrate 360degree projection screening, complete with computergenerated images (CGI), into live theater performance. The thrilling illusion of movement is the result of twelve synchronized projectors running high-resolution CGI video onto more than 15,000 square feet of

screens that entirely surround the audience; it is the equivalent of three IMAX screens. Combined with staging effects where characters fly above London and on to Neverland, it creates an incredibly realistic sensation of gliding among star-flecked skies, careening around towers, drifting through clouds, eluding bloodthirsty pirates, darting through archways, skimming waterfalls, and speeding through dense jungles teeming with crocodiles. They even dodge sharks and swim with a mermaid in a brief, spectacular underwater sequence. All of this takes place within a 128-foot-high tent theatre, so new that Atlanta will be only the fourth stop on its world tour and the first on the East Coast. It started in London in 2009, followed by 2010 runs in San Francisco and Orange County. For scenes of London, threesixty entertainment first built a scale model representing 400 square miles of Edwardian London and shot it with the 360-degree lens. The goal was to create an expansive sense of space from any angle at all times. According to designer William Dudley, it took nearly three weeks for a

room filled with supercomputers‚ the same that did the CGI work for the movie Spiderman, to convert his team’s instructions to finished images. The timing couldn’t have been better: the 360-degree lens system had only just become available. Up to that point, the lenses could only cover 220 degrees. The new system represented a quantum leap for melding live theater with CGI. Projected seamlessly on walls of the cylindrical theater, the images enfold actors and audiences alike in a realistic setting unmatched in live theater. For someone familiar with London, the flying scenes over the city are pure delight. Tickets for Peter Pan start at $20 for children and $35 for adults, and behindthe-scenes “Into Neverland” tours will be held every Saturday during the run. Order tickets online at peterpantheshow.com or by phone at 1-888-ppantix (1-888-7726849). Group discounts are available by calling 404881-2000. This article is a special to The Orange County Register.

PETER PAN

gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 13

J&L Automotive ... going the extra mile is more than a slogan The mission of complicated systems. J&L Automotive is to Factory Required provide the highest Service: You will quality and most save a great deal of dependable repair money by allowing us Visit J&L Auto any time service for your vehito do all your factory through December 31, for a cles. Our goal is to required service, have a life-long cusWinter Weather Maintenance without affecting tomer by establishing your factory warranInspection. This is a FREE and maintaining a ty. We will point out inspection and there is no personal relationship anything we see that and being committed requirement to purchase any is under warranty so to customer needs suggested services at the time you can have a dealfirst. er make those of the inspection. The Owner, John repairs. Buonamia, is a Board Your Dealership Alternative For Over 30 Years! Alignment and Certified Master Balancing: Tire Automotive Technitechnology has cian with more than changed through the 30 years experience. years, and so has the All of the staff are technology in the ASE and Factory Certified Air Force (GCAF). equipment to service them. Brakes: We don’t treat We have state-of-the-art technicians. All team members are required to attend brake work as a minor job. alignment and balancing factory sponsored and pri- We take the time to do it systems. With the use of vate training classes right with only the best parts infrared cameras and laser throughout the year to for your vehicle. We don’t aim, we can get the best understand new systems believe in good, better or alignment and balance and refresh their knowledge best type brakes ... only the which will lead to longer tire on previous model year sys- right brakes will do. life. Heating and Air ConRegular Maintenance tems. Diagnostics: We are ditioning: We know that Checks and simple service best known for our diagnos- this can be a costly repair. can greatly reduce the cost tics. Our experience and We take the time to analyze of car maintenance, extend knowledge in this field can and test your system and the life of your car and keep save you money. where only repair or replace what you and your family safe. Most of these checks can be other shops might charge to is needed. Electrical Systems: We done for little to no cost learn on your car, we already know what to do. have the most current and are quick and easy to We will not bill you if we equipment and training to do, saving you time, money can’t find or duplicate the best diagnose today’s highly and inconvenience. problem with your vehicle ... making us different from some other shops. Emissions Testing and Repair: We have maintained a 100% fixed right the first time for over ten years with Georgia's Clean

Your True Dealer

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Regular Maintenance and service inspections will greatly reduce the cost of car maintenance and extend the service life of your vehicle.

For maximum fuel efficiency and performance: • Tire pressure is a must; the correct pressure is on the driver’s door jam. Clean air filter, clean oil, getting oil changed regularly. These three simple things will save about 30% of wasted fuel economy. • Fluids do not last forever. Power steering, brake, coolant, transmission and differential fluids should be flushed or drained and filled with fresh fluid periodically depending on vehicle manufacturers. • Lights inspection. Haven’t you noticed how many cars and trucks are missing one or more of their lights at night, have you ever wondered about yours? Not all cars have light inspection warning systems. • Tune-ups aren’t just changing spark plugs. A real tune-up is a vehicle service. Changing the oil and checking the condition of the fluids, brakes, hoses, suspension and tires to ensure they are meeting the same standards that they did when new. To keep your family safe and help avoid costly surprise repairs, bring your car in for its regular oil service to J & L. They check all the items listed above as part of a routine oil service inspection. J & L does not ever try to sell you any repair work, they simply let you know what maintenance may be needed, the cost and when it should be done.

KEEP YOUR FAMILY SAFE COUPON Visit J & L Auto any time through December 31, for a WINTER WEATHER MAINTENANCE INSPECTION. Bring us your car for a free inspection. There is no requirement to purchase any suggested services at the time of the inspection.

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Page 14 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

www.carcare.org

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Looking into the heart of an all-new ‘Beauty’ By Brendan Lemon Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, now embarked on a lavish and visually re-imagined new tour presented by NETworks, is one of bestloved of all musicals. It’s easy to understand why. Its classic story -of a beautiful village girl, Belle, who is first repelled by, then attracted to a gruff yet big-hearted Beast --is indeed, as one of the show’s numbers has it, “a tale as old as time.” The songs (music by Alan Menken; lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice) are almost criminally tuneful. And the musical’s appeal crosses age barriers: truly, “Beauty” is an experience that can be enjoyed by child and adult alike. Many of the songs – the charming “Belle,” the infectious “Something There,” and the spectacular hospitality anthem “Be Our Guest” – were written for the 1991 animated movie, which was the first – and until 2010, the only – animated film ever to be nominated for the Best Picture Oscar. The movie’s status not just in cinematic history but in critical lore was cemented when the New York Times’ thentheater critic Frank Rich, called Beauty and the Beast the best musical of the year – in any format. Disney took the cue, and soon started things rolling for the live adaptation. Several new songs, as well as the book by Linda Woolverton, were written for the stage version, which opened on Broadway at the Palace Theater on April 18, 1994, and went on to become the seventh-longest running production in Broadway history. Rob Roth, who directed the Broadway premiere and is back at the helm for the new tour, says that

the “story of the show is about seeing past the exterior of a person and into his or her heart.” He says that conveying that feeling is key to any production of “Beauty.” What’s fresh about the tour, he adds, is not just the timeless moral but a new approach to the visuals. Stan Meyer, the scenic designer both for the 1994 Broadway version and for the new production, says that the former staging was, essentially, the 1991 movie made live. The latter is “a departure from that.” He explains: “We did a lot of research that involved eastern-European wood carving and gilded manuscripts. The new version is an illuminated manuscript come to life.” Audiences will delight in the eye-popping storybook shapes and colors that Meyer and the other original-version designers (Ann Hould-Ward: costumes; Natasha Katz: lighting) have re-imagined. The production’s look, adds Meyer, “is more evocative of whimsy and very, very romantic.” The new production of “Beauty” is a treat not only for the creative team but also for the cast. For Liz Shivener, who plays Belle, the job is the realization of a dream. Shivener says she got “really obsessed with [‘Beauty’]” at the age of around 8. “Like a lot of little girls,” she says, “that’s the age when I wanted to be a princess.” Shivener says that, as a child in Ohio, she used to dance around the house and sing all the songs from the show. She continues: “As great as it is for kids to see the DVD version at home, it’s an even bigger treat for them to experience it in a theater. The whole world of this story takes on a much bigger scale. Kids don’t forget that.”

In addition to Shivener, there are Nathaniel Hackmann as Gaston and Justin Glaser as the Beast – all part of a large, multi-gifted cast. Hackmann, who grew up in a musical family, in Arizona, has sung with top classical companies like the Virginia Opera. He has done Gaston, the conceited village bully in “Beauty,” twice before, and understands why audiences are drawn to him. “It’s a classic case of the character who you love to hate. There’s so much comedy to him, and he’s been drawn so cleverly by the people who wrote the show.” Glaser, who is from Kentucky, says he not only enjoys performing the songs every night but also is continually inspired by its message. “We live in a world of beautiful celebrities and it seems as if you don’t look exactly like them that you don’t have a chance in love. But that’s just not true. There are many qualities that make people attractive – having brains like Belle, or tenderness like the Beast displays eventually. I’m excited to take this show around the country and remind audiences of these things.” NETworks presents

JAN 12-16

Photos by Joan Marcus gwinnettdailypost.com •

THE FOX THEATRE

Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 15

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Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 17

Join Discover Mills for our 3rd Annual Midnight Opening! Friday, November 26th, stores open at MIDNIGHT. Enjoy special discounts and much more. From midnight to 3am register for your chance to win a “VIP Shopping Experience” including a $500 Simon Giftcard, passes to Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament, Atlanta Hawks and Thrashers, Gwinnett Gladiators and Disney Live - Mickey’s Magic Show! Mills Means More Selection! Shop Discover Mills - Georgia’s value shopping, entertainment & dining destination! Find that special gift for everyone on your list at stores including Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, NikeFactoryStore, GUESS Factory Store, Kenneth Cole Company Store, Tommy Hilfiger Company Store and Gymboree Outlet.

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Page 16 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 17

I-85 AT SUGARLOAF PARKWAY

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Lake Lanier Islands Resort 18th Annual Magical Nights of Lights The concept of millions of animated twinkling holiday lights may not have originated with Virgil Williams – Chairman and CEO of Islands Management Company, LLC – but in the five years since his company’s acquisition of the 1,500-acre lakeside resort destination, he has sought to make The Magical Nights of Lights bigger and better. In fact, “bigger and better” is a recurring theme with the ongoing improvements throughout this Southeastern luxury resort. With Williams’ multimillion dollar renovation of the Resort’s accommodations and amenities in addition to a $30-million investment by the Lake Lanier Islands Development Authority to improve the Resort’s infrastructure, streetscapes, and walkways – today’s visitors to Lake Lanier Islands Resort are being treated to an entirely innovative experience. Just last year, the resort unveiled its new and improved Magical Nights of Lights animated holidaythemed light displays and festive Holiday Village. Renowned for its sevenmiles of animated, twinkling holiday light displays, Lake Lanier Islands Resort is certain that the glow from just outside your windows will work its way into the hearts of each inhabitant of your car, igniting that age-old holiday spirit as it has been doing for visitors of the Magical Nights of Lights for nearly two decades. That’s the true “magic” behind Lake Lanier Islands’ Magical Nights of

Lights. Follow the winding illuminated path all the way to the Holiday Village. In Santa’s Workshop at the heart of the Village, little ones can sit atop Santa’s lap commemorating the momentous occasion with a photo, while shoppers bustle about gathering gifts and ornaments. By the light of large toasty bonfires just outside the Workshop’s doors, countless parents will bestow the art of a perfectly roasted marshmallow to the delight of their children. Warm yourself from the inside out with a cup of hot cocoa as you make your way through the rest of our festive Holiday Village featuring carnival rides, pony rides, petting zoo and games. A favorite annual tradition for many in the Southeast, Lake Lanier Islands Resort invites you to make Magical Night of Lights part of your family’s special holiday memories this year and for many years to come. Magical Nights of Lights

runs nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. November 20 through December 30. Discount coupons are available at participating McDonalds, Chick-fil-A, Publix and QuikTrip locations (while supplies last). Lake Lanier Islands Resort also offers All-Inclusive Packages that include admission to the Magical Nights of Lights, unlimited carnival rides, and can be tailored to incorporate one of the Resort’s most exciting new amenity additions for 2010 – an Express Tour zip line through Lake Lanier Canopy Tours. This 20-to30-minute trip through the treetops includes four thrilling zip lines and one scenic sky bridge – providing one of the most unique views of the Islands imaginable. For a terrific holiday-themed staycation, Magical Nights of Lights Legacy Lodge Accommodation Packages can be scheduled around the one-of-a-kind experience of Breakfast with Santa (on select dates).

Did you know?

Each year, shoppers are greeted by the sights of the holiday season at area stores, including strung garland, lights and masses of bright red poinsettia plants. However, it’s an appearance by the man in red that really signifies the arrival of Christmas. Department stores count on Santa Claus to attract customers to pose for pictures and shop the day away. History suggests the department store Santa made his debut in 1841, when J.W. Parkinson, a Philadelphia merchant,

Page 18 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

hired a man to dress up in a “Kris Kringle” outfit and climb the chimney of his store. It wasn’t until forty years later that a Boston merchant repeated the idea, hiring a Scottish immigrant named Edgar, who happened to be tall and a little round around the middle and who boasted a white beard, a warm voice and a hearty laugh. Pictured: Ed Sveum, Santa For Hire. Ed is a favorite of Daycare, Schools and Corporate events. Contact Ed: GeorgiaSanta@Charter.net

gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 19

bration, a celebration that eventually became known as Thanksgiving.

Did you know? One theory as to why Americans eat turkey every Thanksgiving dates back to the days of the famed Spanish Armada. That theory states that during the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth was enjoying roast goose during a harvest festival when she was informed the Spanish Armada, on its way to attack England, had sunk. That led the queen to order a second goose for a celebration. This harvest tradition continued when the Pilgrims arrived in America. However, upon arriving in America, wild turkeys were far more abundant than geese, so the Pilgrims replaced goose with turkey as the main dish during their harvest cele-

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Page 20 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

JEFF MCPHAIL PHOTOGRAPHER

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Garden Plaza at Lawrenceville allows you to live the lifestyle you deserve! Garden Plaza at Lawrenceville is a senior living community featuring well-appointed studio, one and two bedroom apartments complete with outstanding services and amenities. Our community is more than a place to live; it is home. A carefree lifestyle: We make every effort to ensure you have the freedom to maintain a vibrant, active lifestyle. Our caring, professional staff is here to take care of the everyday hassles such as household chores and maintenance. This leaves you free to pursue your dreams -- whether they

be learning a foreign language, spending time with grandchildren or traveling. Engaging activities: Giving you choices is our goal, and Garden Plaza at Lawrenceville offers a full calendar of social, cultural and recreational activities that give you just that! However, not all activity is scheduled and you always have the opportunity to relax by yourself or with friends. Some of your numerous options include: • Reading your favorite book in our cozy library • Swimming a few laps in our indoor saltwater pool • Relaxing with our spa

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services • Working out in our fitness center • Sharpening your golf skills on our putting green • Conducting online research in our Internet café • Joining your friends for lunch in the bistro or for a restaurant-style meal in our elegant dining room • Challenging your friends to a game of pool Plus, Garden Plaza at Lawrenceville is located just minutes away from both the excitement of Atlanta and the historic town of Lawrenceville. Atlanta is home to the Braves, the Fox Theatre and fabulous

shopping and dining. In • Scheduled transportation Learn how we can help you Lawrenceville, you can live the lifestyle you deserve. • Fitness center explore a vibrant downtown • Indoor saltwater pool featuring specialty shops, and hot tub Call 770.236.8333 today terrific restaurants and inter• Salon and spa or visit our website at esting museums. • Putting green www.lawrencevilleretirement.com • Billiards room Outstanding services and to schedule your • Media center and theatre amenities: Enjoy your retirepersonal tour and complimentary lunch. ment at Garden Plaza at and much more! Lawrenceville where you can experience gracious Southern hospitality in an elegant atmosphere. We specialize in combining lovely amenities with the comforts of home. Some of our many offerings include: • Monthly lease with no buy-in • Choice of restaurantstyle fine dining or casual bistro dining

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Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 21

Holiday Gift Idea: Justin Bieber Just in time for the gift-giving season, teen pop phenom Justin Bieber is unveiling the perfect holiday gift that previews his new 3D movie, JUSTIN BIEBER: NEVER SAY NEVER. Perfect for movie and music lovers, the JUSTIN BIEBER: NEVER SAY NEVER “3D Movie Preview” kits have everything you need to ignite your own Bieber Mania, including: Bracelet, Glow stick, Bag, VIP lanyard, Hotterthan-hot JUSTIN BIEBER: NEVER SAY NEVER 3D glasses, and a ticket to a local 3D movie preview of JUSTIN BIEBER: NEVER SAY NEVER. The JUSTIN BIEBER: NEVER SAY NEVER “3D Movie Preview” kits will be sold exclusively at www.jb3dpreview.com beginning Monday, November 29th at 10AM.

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Three convenient Gwinnett locations to serve you Lawrenceville River Exchange 770-339-6345

Dacula Dacula Village 770-237-3525

Suwanee Horizon Village 770-614-9338

Monday - Saturday 10am-8pm • Sunday 1pm-5pm

Page 22 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

Discover holiday savings at Discover Mills!

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With more than 180 incredible retailers, Discover Mills is sure to delight holiday shoppers this season with its unique brand of shopping, dining and entertainment. As Atlanta’s largest outlet and value retail shopping destination, Discover Mills continues to provide shoppers with more stores, more brands, more savings and more fun. Discover Mills features an impressive roster of popular stores perfect for finding the ideal gift for everyone on your list this holiday season, including Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, BCBG Maxazria Final Cut, Forever 21, Kenneth Cole Outlet, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Nike Factory Store,

Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, The Disney Store Outlet, The LEGO Store, Toys “R” Us Express and more. Plus, the fun continues with a variety of entertainment venues and dining choices, such as Atlanta’s largest Dave & Buster’s, Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament, popular frozen yogurt eatery Tutti Frutti, AMC 18-Screen Theatre, Slingshot Speedway and Lunar Golf. With the holidays quickly approaching, Discover Mills is gearing up for the most important shopping day of the year, Black Friday, by inviting eager holiday shoppers to the 3rd Annual Midnight Opening, offering 22 straight hours of

incredible discounts and promotions available from many of their retailers. In addition, the festivities throughout the season will include pictures with Santa, holiday entertainment, give wrap, giveaways, prizes and more! Discover Mills is located at I-85 and Sugarloaf Parkway, just 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta. Regular hours are 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday. For a complete list of special holiday shopping hours and events please call (678) 847-5000, visit www.discovermills.com or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DiscoverMills.

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Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 23

Page 24 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

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gwinnettdailypost.com •

DIRECTIONS d onion together until Boil Squash an lt to taste. Once cooked, sa cooked, add l. Beat eggs and milk m el drain really w ritz crackers and sour crease. d ee ad ch , er ar h d et ed ch tog and 1 cup of ake into mixture into casserole dish and b en re th , tu es ix re m r eg u Po s at 350 d te u in m ar d 30 of ched for 25 to ning 1/2 cup add the remai and bake for another 10 p cheese on to . so r o s te u in m

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Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 25

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If you want to know how, I'll show you the way. Sponsor a child in Gwinnett foster care . . . and you'll be filled with joy, More joy than you can bear. We, at DFCS Gwinnett, have children in need of sponsors and we will have more coming in between now and Christmas. Gather your family and neighbors together to take part in a great program that brings Christmas to foster children all over Gwinnett County. If you are interested in sponsoring a child this Christmas season please call

678-518-5758.

Page 26 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

“SPARKLE”: A Celebration of Christmas Magic in Historic Norcross From November 20th – December 22nd, Historic Norcross is celebrating the magic of Christmas. Brick store fronts that have witnessed over 100 years of holiday celebrations, are home to trendy shops and eclectic restaurants. There is art, and history, places to relax and fun things to do. Local shops are filled with “perfect gifts” and savory restaurants with live music. “SPARKLE” BEGINS! Saturday, November 20, Historic Downtown Merchant’s Open House 11a.m. – 8p.m. Visit our shops all decked out in holiday splendor, most of which you can buy!

Lots of "perfect gifts" and treasures ...special discounts this Saturday, and the shops will stay open late. Come have dinner and stroll through our town. Santa’s Elves & BeDazzleDoos! Bring your kids downtown 11a.m. - 3p.m. and make ornaments with the elves...plus get a totally amazing (and temporary) BeDazzleDo hairdo (absolutely darling whimsy and color for little girls...and maybe for some daring older ones?!) Bleu House Market - Celebrate the grand opening of this fabulous new market with a mini-farmer’s market. Enjoy fresh goodies from local producers, as well as sinfully

yummy treats by the Bleu House. Located in the newly renovated Adams’ House on College Street. PHOTOS WITH SANTA Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, December 1st through December 22nd. 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. 45 South Café. Bring your kids, your family, or sit on Santa’s lap yourself! CARRIAGE RIDES Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, December 1st through 22nd 6 pm – 9 pm. White horses and jingling bells make this an especially charming adventure through the historic downtown area.

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Board the carriage in front of the Taste of Britain shop...bring the kids, or pair with dinner to make it a special “date night”! CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING WITH SANTA December 3, Thrasher Park. Join us at dusk for the annual lighting of the Christmas Tree. TEDDY BEAR TEA Saturday, December 4th, Bleu House Market, 2p.m. & 4p.m. Bring your favorite cuddly bear to a special treat at this charming restored cottage. Ticket includes tea sandwiches, cookie decorating and a photo! $7.95/pp. Call 770.595.9846

for reservations. ANTIQUE TOY DISPLAY Opens December 4th, 11a.m. – 1p.m. Norcross Welcome Center. Special exhibit of local resident Al Karnitz’ amazing toy collection. See a real toy train wind its way underneath a live Christmas tree – just like in the “olden days”. Also on exhibit is work by local artists from Kudzu Art Zone. Regular Welcome Center hours are 8a.m. – 5p.m. Monday through Friday. MOVIE IN THE PARK Saturday, December 11 5:30p.m. – 7:30p.m. Cuddle up and watch “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” and “Claymation

Christmas”. Stay warm with hot chocolate, roasting chestnuts and marshmallow toasting! CELEBRATION OF LIGHTS & HISTORY TOUR Saturday, December 11, 5:30p.m. Take a fascinating tour through one of the oldest cemetaries in Atlanta. Hear stories about the families who have lived here through the generations, while enjoying a radiant display of luminaries that celebrate their memories For more information on the fabulous things happening in Historic Norcross all year long, visit www.aplacetoimagine.com and sign up for emails, Facebook and Twitter.

Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 27

Hockey night in Gwinnett A great way to catch all the excitement with the Gladiators is by utilizing the Hockey Night in Gwinnett Plan. In what’s become a yearly tradition, after the football season is over we want to get our local communities together for a good time! To make the nights truly great events, we decided that we would create a package that offered great seats to all the best games and we would top it all off with great promotions and giveaways.

PACKAGE BENEFITS • Great seats, best games, promotions and giveaways of the season • 6 games during the 2010-2011 season • Comes with valuable coupons including one for a one time 10% Discount coupon for purchase of Gladiators Merchandise • Free parking • Invitation to special team events throughout the year • Opportunity to renew your package next season before tickets go on sale to the public • First option to purchase Kelly Cup playoff tickets

Gladiators Hockey Night in Gwinnett Schedule (6 Games Total) • Saturday, January 15th - Teddy Bear Toss • Saturday, February 5th - Fleece Blanket Night • Saturday, February 12th - Kids Replica Jersey Night • Saturday, March 5th - Adult Replica Jersey Night • Saturday, March 19th - Pink in the Rink • Saturday, March 20th - Cap Night All giveaways and promotions subject to change.

Gladiators Hockey Night in Gwinnett Plan Pricing Package Includes 6 Games During the 2010-2011 Season.

From $60 to $114 depending on seat location. Phone: 770-497-5100 Fax: 770-497-5101 E-mail: hockey@gwinnettgladiators.com

Page 28 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

Holiday Helper: At Home Fix-It Yourself Tips to Save You Holiday Cash! Before you fill your house with holiday cheer or holiday guests this season make sure that everything in your house is working smoothly. Here are some holiday at home fix-it yourself tips from Prettytools.com that can save you from calling the expensive handy man so that you can use that holiday cash for better things! Consider Prettytools.com this December when purchasing fun holiday gifts. Prettytools.com makes using tools fun and fashionable. Fixing Plumbing Problems You may need to remove the trap to open a clogged drain. The trap is the Ushaped pipe under the sink. Put a bucket under the trap to

catch any water or gunk when you remove it. You can use a wrench to loosen the metal slip nuts, or remove the cleanout plug. Clear out any residue in the trap before reattaching it. If you still have plumbing problems after removing the trap you may want to try using a plunger. Make sure you clear any standing water out of the sink before plunging to avoid splashing your eyes. Oven Won’t Work? If your oven is getting power but is not heating up, check the oven and broiler elements. Start with the oven element, which generally gets more use and will fail first. With the oven on, check to

make sure the entire element is glowing uniformly. Repeat the process looking at the broiler element. If either glows unevenly, or has areas of damage where the element appears melted, then it needs to be replaced. After letting the oven cool, cut power to the oven at the breaker board (or by unplugging it for ovens with range tops). Remove any brackets holding the damaged element in place, setting them aside to be used with the new element. Lastly unscrew the bracket at the rear of the oven, which will expose the wiring. If the wires from the oven to the element are the same color, or if you have any doubts about your ability to

remember which wire goes where when you install the new element, use masking tape and a pen to label the oven’s wires. Disconnect the wiring, remove the damaged element, and take it to an appliance store to get a replacement. Install the new element exactly as the old one had been, replacing any brackets you had removed. Once it’s in, restore power to the oven and test the new element. Measuring Tip “Measure twice, cut once” should be every home improver’s mantra. Decorating Always use the correct length of screw, moly bolt, or

other fittings when putting up shelves or other wall-mounted items such as mirrors or cabinets. Otherwise they could fall down and injure someone; break other items such as ornaments, sinks, and windows; and damage the wall. Damage to water pipes Before you start knocking nails or fixing screws into walls or floors, make sure you know where your water pipes are. If you don’t, a job as simple as hanging a new bathroom mirror could see you calling an emergency plumber, removing the wall tiles to repair the pipe, and redecorating the bathroom and adjoining rooms to cover the water marks. A wire and

pipe detector is a relatively cheap piece of equipment that could save you a lot of trouble. Don’t depend entirely on the detector, however-they are not 100 percent reliable. Use your common sense to work out where the water pipes are likely to be and proceed carefully.

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Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 29

Win Free House Cleanings from Molly Maid Are you in need of free housecleaning? Someone you know and love? Molly Maid of NW Gwinnett will be giving “12 days of house cleaning” to three deserving Gwinnett county families this Christmas season. A clean home is important to any family. Having a sparkling home brings a sense of peace and wellbeing to hectic lives. Keeping the home clean is more difficult than ever with uncertain work schedules, separations due to military service and the demands of in-home healthcare. “Each and every day we go into homes where both

parents are working long hours, a spouse is serving in the military or someone has an illness. These families have great pride in their homes, but their jobs and family needs have put house cleaning last on the “to-do” list. These families look to Molly Maid to restore order,” explains Scott Auer, Molly Maid of NW Gwinnett owner. “Our cleaning team enters a home and within hours, the order is restored, the home is clean and functional again and the family is so thankful for what we've accomplished,” said Auer. These experiences are

Enter to Win One of Three Molly Maid Cleaning Packages Please visit gwinnettdailypost.com, click Contest Central button, click on Molly Maid 12 Days of Christmas and tell us, in 500 words or less why you or someone you know deserves to win one the three prizes. Only Gwinnett County Residents are eligible to win. The online entry form site gives complete contest rules and regulations. the driving force behind this contest. If you or someone you know and love is in need of this housecleaning pack-

age, encourage them to enter. The winner will receive an amazing Molly Maid experience that

Page 30 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

includes a cleaning plan similar to this: Kitchen • Clean all appliances, sinks and counters • Damp-wipe cupboard fronts, table, and chairs Bathrooms • Clean and sanitize showers, tubs, toilets, sinks, mirrors, glass, counters and tile • Damp-wipe cabinet fronts • Clean all shelves, fixtures, and items on vanity All Rooms • Dust baseboards, light fixtures, furniture, sills, shelves, blinds, and décor • Remove cobwebs • Vacuum/Mop all floors, carpets, rugs, and stairs • Vacuum cloth furniture including under cushions • Clean glass surfaces

• Make up or straighten linens • Empty wastebaskets Trusted, Professional Maid Service For more than 25 years, Molly Maid has offered bonded, insured residential maids who pride themselves in quality home cleaning services that create “me time” for homeowners. Only passionate, caring people have the honor of wearing the nationally-recognized Molly Maid uniform. Your Home Your Cleaning Plan Families do not have to supply their own cleaning supplies or even be home during a clean. Molly Maid is truly like a magical elf!

gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Page 31

Page 32 • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 25, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com