DECEMBER 1-31:
Savannah Harbor Foundation Eleventh Annual Gingerbread Village. Not just one gingerbread house, but an entire village! The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa comes alive with holiday cheer as local chefs – from professionals to hobbyists – compete for bragging rights of the Best Gingerbread Creation! Stop by to view the creations and cast your vote. Holiday Series events Sponsored by the Savannah Harbor Foundation. (912) 201-2000 or westinsavannah.com.

DECEMBER 1- 31
Ashmore Gallery will feature the art from the estate of Charles Webster Hawthorne, a noted 19^th Century American painter. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The gallery is located at 412 MLK Jr. Blvd. Hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. -5 p.m. on Saturday. Ashmore Gallery is a new fine arts gallery showcasing work from the 19^th Century to the present by Savannah, Lowcountry and Southeastern artists. For more information, call (912) 233-5558 or visit ashmoregallery.com.

DECEMBER 1- 31:
$$Money$$ at Tubby’s in Thunderbolt. Save money for a good cause and help support Tubby’s in Thunderbolt this Holiday Season as they team up with Local Food Banks to stamp out hunger!! Bring in a nonperishable food item for donation and save $5 dollars on your purchase of $20.00 dollars!! savannahmenu.com/tubbysthunderbolt.

DECEMBER 1-31:
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church hosts 2^nd Annual Small Works Art Market. At an opening and Artists’ Reception on Sunday, November 13 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., St. Paul’s will launch their 2^nd Annual Small Works Art Market.  The reception is free and open to the public. Located at 1802 Abercorn (34th & Abercorn), the Gallery at St. Paul’s presents this group show of small works for sale during the Christmas season.  The show provides an opportunity for the community to purchase one-of-a-kind, two-dimensional art for gifts or to add to their personal collections. The show continues the mission of the Gallery of Art and the Sacred to provide a venue for local artists and the Savannah College of Art and Design community to encourage a dialogue to explore the topic of art and spirituality.   However, work in the 2nd Annual Small Works Art Market is not limited to a spiritual theme. The Small Works Art Market will run from Sunday, November 6 to January 2. For more information, go to stpaulsavannah.org or call (912) 232-0274. 

DECEMBER 1-31:
Class Prepares Human Resource Managers for Professional Certification. Early-discount registration closes January 6 for Georgia Southern University’s Certificate in Professional Human Resource Management short course in Savannah. Set at the Coastal Georgia Center, the 12-week class meets 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., Mondays, February 6 – April 30. The SHRM Learning System course materials, including the study modules and the Online Resource Center, are included in the $1,040 course fee. The early-rate course fee is discounted to $965 for current members of national SHRM or of any local SHRM chapter. After January 6, all additional registrants must pay $1,140. Register by calling toll-free (855) 478-5551 or online at ceps.georgiasouthern.edu/conted/HRcertificate.html.  Registration closes January 23.

DECEMBER 1-30:
Gwendolyne DiCroces artwork will be available for viewing  at the JEA (5111 Abercorn St). There will be a reception on December 1st from 6-8 p.m. Call (912) 355-8111 for more information.

DECEMBER 1-30:
“Conquered Banners: Georgia’s Civil War Flags” are on display at the Georgia Historical Society. An exhibit of six rare flags made and carried during the first year of the Civil War, as part of the first year of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, along with other secession-related manuscripts and artifacts. Free and open to the public. 501 Whitaker St., (912) 651-2125 or georgiahistory.com.

DECEMBER 1-26:
“A Christmas Tradition” Celebrate the season with this glittering 2-hour spectacular musical performance at the Historic Savannah Theatre. The theatre is transformed into a holiday perfect picture, sharing memories of the Christmas standards that you know and love. Sprinkle in a little comedy and audience participation for the greatest event of the season. Call for dates and show times. 222 Bull St., (912) 233-7764 or savannahtheatre.com.

DECEMBER 1- 25:
“The Gift of Relaxation” from the Heavenly Spa by Westin. Purchase a $250 gift card and receive a voucher for a complimentary 25-minute spa service. Call to book your appointment, (912) 201-2250 or heavenlyspasavannah.com.

DECEMBER 1-25:
“Heavenly Holidays” from the Heavenly Spa by Westin Savannah. Book a 50-minute spa treatment and we will upgrade you to 80-minutes for Free! Call to book your appointment, (912) 201-2250 or heavenlyspasavannah.com.

DECEMBER 1- 23:
Socks for Senior’s a community service project to help senior citizens keep their feet warm this winter. Socks for Senior’s and its volunteers have one priority this Holiday Season and that is to bring holiday cheer along with a pair of new socks to warm the hearts and cover the cold feet of our elderly seniors. The Socks for Senior’s program benefits those living alone and in nursing homes and yes even those seniors that are homeless. Help us this Holiday Season. Bring a Warm Smile and Fuzzy Warm Pair of Socks to a lonely senior. Go to socksforseniors.com for more information.

DECEMBER 1-17:
EVERY SATURDAY – Forsyth Farmers Market to be open with extended season Savannah’s source for healthy and fresh shopping to announce a nearly full year season. Starting in November 2011 the Forsyth Farmers Market, a staple for Savannah citizens and visitors, will be open for shopping with an extended season.  For the first time in its three year existence, loyal customers will have the opportunity to purchase late fall and winter crops fresh from the farm to the table. In prior years the market closed mid November through early April.   With the extended schedule, the market will only close for 7 weeks.  The last market day of 2011 will be December 17 and the market will reopen on February 11.The Forsyth Farmers Market takes place each Saturday at the South End of Forsyth Park from 9 AM – 1 PM. For more information regarding the Forsyth Farmer’s Market as well as high-resolution photography, please visit forsythfarmersmarket.org.

DECEMBER 1-3:
Armstrong Atlantic State University presents The Fall Schedule for public events for Art, Music and Theatre. Go to armstrongedu.com and click on AMT events to get the full lineup. Fine Arts Hall, 11935 Abercorn St., (912) 344-2801.

DECEMBER 1- 4:
Indigo Sky Community Gallery presents Interwoven dialogues. Featuring work by Sally Clark and Abigail Kokai. You are invited to the Opening reception from 6-9 p.m. on Nov. 18^th. 915 Waters Ave. Hours: Saturdays & Sundays 11 a.m.-4 p.m. or by appointment (912) 233-7659 or indigoskycommunitygallery.blogspot.com.

DECEMBER 1-4:
Fiber optics installers or those seeking a new career can earn three certifications from the Fiber Optic Association through Georgia Southern University’s week-long training series. Take one or all three classes, each running 8 am – 5 pm at the Coastal Georgia Center , 305 Fahm St. Certified Fiber Optics Technician Course (Monday-Wednesday), Certified Fiber Optics Specialist in Testing and Maintenance (Thursday – Friday), and Certified Fiber Optics Specialist in Splicing (Saturday – Sunday). Registration closes 5 pm, Nov. 14. For fees and details or to register, ceps.georgiasouthern.edu/conted/fiberoptics.html
or call toll-free (855)-478-5551.

DECEMBER 1:
OSHA Seminar Focuses on Preventing Spread of Disease. Practical training and national health policy play a key role in preventing diseases from spreading through the American population.  Through its OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard seminar in Statesboro on December 1, Georgia Southern University provides training on minimizing the dangers of bloodborne pathogens like Hepatitis B, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and malaria. Training will run 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., December 1, in the Nessmith-Lane Conference Center on campus. Registration for the $75 seminar closes November 23. To register or for more information, visit ceps.georgiasouthern.edu/conted or call toll-free 855-478-5551.

DECEMBER 1:
Sometime around 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Normandy will pass Old Fort Jackson on the Savannah River and receive a cannon salute as she enters the city.  The public is welcome to view the ship’s passing at Fort Jackson [admission is charged: (912) 232-3945 or chsgeorgia.org or on River Street.

 DECEMBER 1:
Looking For Holiday Gifts, buy Local and Support the Arts. • 2012 Theater Season Tickets ~ 4 full stage productions & 2 staged readings for the low price of $55 (an $82 value!) Buy online or call (843) 379-2787. Visit ARTworks resident artist studios & rotating gallery for a unique art selection, Tuesdays-Saturdays.  Mardi Gras Beaufort tickets ~ Buy a table and treat your friends for the best party in town featuring food by Berry Island Cafe & music by Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers.  Afterschool to encourage their creative spirit ~ 7 week afterschool programs will begin again in January. A gift certificate to participate in a class ($50 total) is a great gift for that budding young artist….and Get your trees ready, it’s a Holiday Glitter Family Event on Saturday, December 3~ holiday ornament workshop!

DECEMBER 2:
“First Friday Folk Music” to be held at Stewart Hall, First Presbyterian Church, 520 Washington Ave, from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. “JOHN DOWLING” and local favorite ” BILL SCHUMANN” will perform. (912) 898- 1876.

DECEMBER 2:
The annual tree lighting celebration at the Tybrisa/ Strand Roundabout. Mayor Buelterman will do the honors of lighting the Tybee Tree followed by musical delights, entertainment, awards and locations for giving!  A special evening for the community and guests. Come down front for musical performances and entertainment while you enjoy strolling and shopping .  Complementary refreshments will be available at participating locations. Call (912) 786-4573 or cmorton@cityoftybee.org.

DECEMBER 2, 4, 9, & 24:
Greenbriar is recruiting all civic organizations, social organizations, churches, sororities, fraternities, businesses, and individuals to help wrap gifts at our annual Gift Oglethorpe Mall, next to Santa Claus and across from Charming Charlie Wrap Center. For more information please contact: Stephanie Majors, Executive Assistant. smajors@greenbriarchildrenscenter.org 

DECEMBER 3:
Savannah’s Lighted Christmas Parade (begins on River St.) 5:30 p.m. RiverStreetSavannah.com.

DECEMBER 3:
Educational Trawling Trip: Come aboard the R/V Sea Dawg for a cruise and trawl to Wassaw Sound to collect a variety of bottom-dwelling organisms living in the coastal waters of Georgia.  Learn about the natural history of organisms in the estuary as you work closely with staff in sorting through and identifying the catch!  9 a.m. – 12 p.m.  Reservations & required prior to Nov. 23rd. Cost: $40/person, ages: 10 and up.  Be sure to include your name, number in you party, contact email and phone number in all messages. Please arrive 15 minutes before program begins to check-in at the admissions/information desk. UGA Marine Extension Service Education Center and Aquarium, 30 Ocean Science Circle.  Pre-register today by calling (912) 598-2356 or emailing fish@uga.edu.

DECEMBER 3:
Tybee Island Christmas Parade, 1- 3 p.m. The parade starts at the 14th Street parking lot and travels up Tybrisa to Butler and ends at the Tybee Gym where children will have photo time with Santa and excitement provided by the Tybee Island YMCA! Parade applications are due by November 25. Call  (912)786-4573 ext.123 or  tybeefortheholidays.com for more information about the Holiday Season on Tybee.

DECEMBER 3:
The Ruth Moody Band at 8 p.m. Presented by the Lucas Theatre. “An ideal, gentle accompaniment to a summertime swing in a hammock…” Ruth Moody is a Juno Award-winning songwriter from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Founding member of the internationally renowned, Billboard-charting trio The Wailin’ Jennys and former lead singer of the Canadian roots band Scruj MacDuhk (the band that would later become The Duhks), she has performed in sold-out venues around the world, made numerous critically-acclaimed albums, and has appeared more than a dozen times on the national radio show A Prairie Home Companion. Tickets are $50, $35, $30 and $20, with a limited number of $10 tickets available for those with SCAD ID. Tickets are now available by calling (912) 525-5050 or at savannahboxoffice.com.

DECEMBER 4:
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony. The Savannah Council of the Navy League is hosting a Pearl Harbor Memorial Service from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. This service is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend. 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA (912) 748 – 8888 x166 or mightyeighth.org.

DECEMBER 5 -JANUARY 7:
Savannah’s Place for Art, Culture and Education (S.P.A.C.E.) is now registering students for its winter/spring visual arts classes and workshops.  Day and evening sessions are offered for children, teens and adults in all skill levels.  Sessions begin January 7 and are held at the Department of Cultural Affairs S.P.A.C.E. studios, located at 9 W. Henry St. Class fees include instruction, use of studio space, use of equipment and all materials and tools required. Space is limited and advance registration is required.  Credit cards are accepted.  Class schedule and registration forms are available online at savannahga.gov/arts or by calling (912) 651-6783. 

DECEMBER 5 – 31:
Unemployment and underemployment due to the economy has led many children to ask Santa for jobs for their parents on their wish lists. Working poor families are really struggling to meet their basic needs of food and shelter. Now through the end of December, you can help make sure that local children go to bed with full tummies! Text HUNGRY to 50555 to make a $10 donation. Your simple text will feed 40 local people who struggle to have a balanced meal during the holidays! It is so easy to share the joy of the season with so many in need!  For more information about the fight against hunger in our community, please visit helpendhunger.org or call (912) 236-6750.

DECEMBER 5:
Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, Celebrate the Season. Guest Conductor Teddy Abrams presents the season’s second Light Classics concert. 2011 HHSO Concerto Competition winner Annie Bender will perform the first movement of Mozart’s Concerto No. 5.  Mozart’s “Sleigh Ride”, the Hallelujah Chorus, and selections from “The Nutcracker” are among the evening’s many highlights. First Presbyterian Church, Hilton Head Island, 540 W. Hilton Parkway. Tickets are $20, $30, $40 available by calling the HHSO Box Office at (843) 842-2055 or online at hhso.org

DECEMBER 5, 12 & 19:
River Street Riverboat Company,  Holiday Gospel Dinner Cruise. Adults: $41.95 and Child:  $24.95. 9 East River St., (912) 629-2640.

DECEMBER 6:
Savannah Children’s Theatre presents the Dec. 2011 events as well as upcoming productions in January of 2012.
(912)238-9015 or info@savannahchildrenstheatre.org.

DECEMBER 7-31:
Local KFCs, KFC/Taco Bells and DQ Grill & Chills have launched their “Dishing Out Meals: Fighting Homelessness and Hunger in Our Community” campaign this holiday season.  Twenty-one KFCs and KFC/TacoBells, and three DQ Grill & Chills, owned by Hodges Management Company, partnered with the Chatham-Savannah Authority for the Homeless, Inc., a local nonprofit, to raise funds and awareness to help end homelessness and hunger in Savannah and surrounding communities. (912) 844-7278 or givingadvice.com

DECEMBER 7, 14& 21:
Prepared Childbirth –Wednesday Series, 6:30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m., Wednesdays, Women’s Health Institute Conference Room located in the Center for Advanced Medicine at Memorial University Medical Center. This course gives an overview of reproductive anatomy and physiology and explains the process of labor and delivery in simple, easy-to-understand terms. This four week course includes a tour of the labor and delivery unit. This class is popular, so please register early. The cost is $75 per couple. For more information, call (912) 350-BORN (2676). 

DECEMBER 7:
Goodwill is asking the public to please donate clothing, house hold items, etc. Everything was lost at the Wilmington Island Store. These donations help employ more than 550 folks with disabilities. Goodwill Industries of the Coastal Empire’s Wilmington Island store will be closed until a further damage assessment can completed.  A fire that began in the back of the store has caused a great deal of smoke damage. All donations can be redirected to the Sallie Mood Drive location, as well as the Whitemarsh Island donation center.  For more information keep up with us on our blog at goodwillsavannah.org or on Facebook.

DECEMBER 8:
Superior Customer Service is the focus of Georgia Southern University’s newest Business Essentials for Strategic Management / BEST Practices seminar. Just in time for the holidays, learn to build rapport with customers, use customer-friendly language and deal effectively with customer complaints and problems. Running 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., the $99 seminar will be presented at the Coastal Georgia Center, 305 Fahm St. Registration closes at 5:00 p.m., Dec. 2. To register, call toll-free 855-478-5551 or visit ceps.georgiasouthern.edu/conted/BEST.htl.

DECEMBER 9 & 10:
Fort Pulaski will commemorate the 150^th anniversary of the Confederate Nog party of 1861 on Friday, and Saturday. The long-lived Savannah tradition will continue this year with night-time tours of the historic fort by candlelight and oil lamps. For the 150^th anniversary, hot cider and cookies, music, caroling and night-time weapons firings will allow visitors to re-live the festive occasion. Advance reservations are required for this year’s event. The fort begins taking reservations in November. Reservations can be made in person or over the phone. Phone reservations can be made by calling (912) 786-5787. The cost of the program is $5 per adult. Children under 15 are free, but must be issued a ticket. Fort Pulaski National Monument is located off U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah. 

DECEMBER 9:
Small Works, a Holiday Sale Event. Again this year we are working in collaboration with the Creative Force Artist Collective and Friends, involving an exciting lineup of some of Savannah’s most talented artists. As before, the works on display are small in size but large in value and priced to make for very special and affordable holiday gifts. The exhibition opens on Friday, from 5:30 – 8:30pm, with a closing reception on Sunday, December 18th from 2-4pm. Indigo Sky Community Gallery, 915 Waters Ave. (912) 233-7659 or galleryindigosky@aol.com.

DECEMBER 9:
Holiday Open House at the City Market. Explore the beauty of holiday decorations including hundreds of lights and over 500 luminaries in the courtyard. Enjoy Christmas carolers, visit with Father Christmas, and sample holiday treats in the shops. Our annual Open House starts at 6p.m. and lasts until 9:00p.m. savannahcitymareket.com and phone is (912)232-4903

DECEMBER 9:
Drop by to enjoy the freshly cut Christmas tree, between 6 and 8 p.m. Sing along if you like with our live piano music, and enjoy the Board’s holiday goodies! We want to show our appreciation to our members and friends for continued support during 2011, so there is no charge. Ashantilly Center, Inc. 15591 GA Highway 99, P.O. Box 1449, Darien, GA 31305 (912) 437-4473 or ashantilly.org

DECEMBER 10 & 11:
The Holiday Tour of Homes will feature two home tours on Saturday and an inn tour on Sunday. The houses featured on each tour vary in size, architectural styles and periods representing the full range of Savannah’s historic downtown neighborhoods. They will be decorated according to the owner’s personal holiday tradition. Tickets can be purchased on-line and will be available for pick up on the morning of tour, Saturday, December 10, beginning at 9:30am. The location for pick up is at The Savannah Visitor Center on MLK, Jr. Blvd. Upon ticket pick up, tour guests will receive their tour tickets and guidebook with map of the home and inn locations. Tickets may also be purchased the day of the tour at tour headquarters. (912) 308-6755 or dnaholidaytour.com.

DECEMBER 10:
Factor’s Cottage Customer Appreciation Open House, 5-7p.m. They feature a wide selection of unique gift items, home furnishings, accessories, jewelry and so much more. 204 W. Bay St. (912) 443-9337 or factorscottage.com.

DECEMBER 10:
Bring the family to City Market for fun-filled activities including cookie decorating, making ornaments to take home, face painting, a petting zoo, photos with Father Christmas in the Carriage Tours of Savannah Cinderella carriage, and a choir performance. Carriage Tours will be collecting toys for their annual Toys for Tots promotion. Our annual Christmas for Kids celebration starts at 11:00a.m. and lasts until 2:00p.m. savannahcitymareket.com and phone is (912) 232-4903

DECEMBER 10:
Bonaventure Society, Children of the American Revolution, will host the 4th annual wreath ceremony at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville.  It’s located along U.S. Highway 301, about 25 miles west of the main post of Fort Stewart.  The ceremony is open to the public and will begin at noon. To sponsor a wreath for this event, contact Elaine Lester at ELL22146@aol.com or (912) 925-9544 for more information.  Bonaventure Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, will attend this event in lieu of our regular December meeting.

DECEMBER 10:
Annual Victorian Tea, Saturday.211 E. Charlton St., 3 p.m.-5 p.m. The Downtown Garden Club will host its Victorian Tea in one of Savannah’s grand historic homes in the downtown historic district. Dressed in traditional Victorian garb, docents will be available to give guests a tour of the home and will be serving a traditional high tea. Enjoy music, tea, sherry, Victorian treats and sandwiches.  The tea will be held in conjunction with the Holiday Tour of Homes on Saturday, December 10, 2011  Tickets: $20 per person. (912) 308-6755 or savannahvictoriantea.com.

DECEMBER 11:
Savannah Children’s Choir’s Annual Christmas Concert 3 p.m.  First Presbyterian Church, 520 Washington Ave. Tickets (in advance) VIP ticket, includes reserved seating and Cookies & Caroling party after the concert, $30, savannahchoir.org. Tickets (at the door) $10 adult, $8 Senior/Military, $5 Children.

DECEMBER 11:
Tybee “Teddy Bear” Tea Party, Tybee Wedding Chapel.1112 U.S.Highway 80 on Tybee Island, GA. Proceeds will benefit the continued restoration and renovation of the historic Tybee Post Theatre . Children will get to paint their own holiday Teddy Bear Porcelian Plate, which will then kiln fired and ready for pick up the following day, December 12, Limited to 90 tickets @$25 each. Includes Tea for Teddy. Supporting adult for child, painting  project. Contact (912) 663-1099.             

DECEMBER 13: Adam W. Lee, a local financial advisor for the financial services firm Edward Jones, invites the public to attend a holiday open house from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, at 315 Commercial Drive, Suite B-1 Call (912) 354-1812 for details.

DECEMBER 13:
Steal Magnolias Holiday party, 6-9 p.m. Savannah’s place for unique arts, antiques, jewelry and collectables all under one roof. We will be serving hors d’ oeuvres, beverages and Holiday specials. 800 Habersham St. (corner of Habersham & Gwinnett). (912) 236-5583 or stealmagnolias.com

DECEMBER 14 -MARCH 10:
The Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival has set the dates for the 2012 Festival which will be held March 5 – 10, 2012. The Great Chefs of the South Wine Dinners will take place at various locations on Hilton Head Island, Monday March 5 through Friday, March 9^th, details and pricing to be confirmed. The Grand Tasting and Silent Auction will be held on Friday, March 9 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Sea Pines Resort, Harbour Town Conference Center. The Wine & Food Festival and Silent Auction will be held from 12 – 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 10, 2012 at the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn, 70 Honey Horn Dr. The Pre-Festival events include, “Uncork” the Festival on Friday, January 27, 2012 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Bomboras Grille, 101 A/B Pope Ave .and the International Wine Judging and Competition, Saturday, January 28 and Sunday, January 29, 2012 at Sea Pines Resort, Harbour Town Conference Center. Additional information and tickets are available for purchase online at hiltonheadwineandfood.com.

DECEMBER 14 – JANUARY 20: The Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival now in its 27th year, attracts wine enthusiasts from all over the country and wineries from all over the world. This event is one of the largest outdoor, Internationally Judged Wine events on the East Coast. The Judges are all accredited either through the Society of Wine Educators or by the Court of Master Sommeliers. Wine entry information and details can be found online at hiltonheadwineandfood.com or through the Enofile web site at enofileonline.com/landing.aspx?competitionID=54.  All entries and payments made online before December 31, 2011 are $39 per entry. All entries received online after January 1, 2012 are $49 per entry. Any entries received offline or via mail add an additional $10 per entry. All entries and payments must be received by January 20, 2012 in order to be judged.

DECEMBER 14-31:
The Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival is proud to present its inaugural Official Poster Competition. Student Artists who are students 18 years or older, enrolled in Art and/or Graphic Design programs of study, and residents of South Carolina and Georgia may submit original works for consideration in the design contest of the 2012 Festival Poster. These designs are then judged by a panel representing both the culinary and art communities. The design should reflect Hilton Head Island’s rich history and exciting food and wine scene, while featuring attributes that would aptly reflect the festival. Artists should keep in mind that the poster design will be used in many marketing and retail materials. To enter, the Artist must complete an application and send a high resolution .jpeg file of their artwork to: info@hiltonheadwineandfood.com by December 31, 2011. Entry guidelines and applications will be available now on-line and can also be received via email request to info@hiltonheadwineandfood.com.

DECEMBER 14:
Living Independence for Everyone. 25th Anniversary/ Christmas Open House from 12 – 2 p.m. Our new Location!!  5105 Paulsen Street, Suite 143-B.   (Executive Court office complex between 67th & 68th). (912) 920-2414 or lifecil.com.

DECEMBER 15:
USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced the ranking period cut-off date for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is January 13, 2012. Producers interested in CSP should submit applications to their local NRCS office by the deadline so that their applications can be considered during the first ranking period of 2012. CSP is offered in all 50 states, and the Pacific and Caribbean areas through continuous sign-ups. The program provides many conservation benefits including improvement of water and soil quality, wildlife habitat enhancements and adoption of conservation activities that address the effects of climate change. Eligible lands include cropland, pastureland, rangeland, nonindustrial private forest land and agricultural land under the jurisdiction of an Indian tribe. Visit the Georgia NRCS Web site at ga.nrcs.usda.gov, and connect
with an NRCS office near you.

 DECEMBER 15:
It’s an ‘Uncalled for Christmas’ from the Uncalled For Trio~ a present from the Town of Port Royal! The ‘Uncalled for Trio’ are Kim Weitkamp, Andy Offut Irwin and Bil Lepp, award-winning, nationally-touring performers, with an endearing cast of characters and holiday memories alive through story and song. 7:30pm, at the Shed on Paris Avenue in Port Royal, Old Village Port Royal SC. Tickets at the door only: $5 for adults, $2 for kids 8 to 16, and free for little ones who will not distract from the stories (which are not intended for tikes.) (843) 379-2787 or  artworksinbeaufort.org.

DECEMBER 15:
Georgia Wins Award to Benefit Older Adults and Caregivers. Georgia’s caregivers will gain access to free wellness workshops for themselves and loved ones plus Alzheimer’s telephone support, thanks to a new grant awarded by the U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA). The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Aging Services (DAS) competed and received one of only four AoA Systems Integration grants issued nationwide.  “As a result of this grant, Georgians across the state will get greater access to and control over the services and supports they will need now and in the future to help them remain at home and in the community for as long as they choose,” said Dr. James J. Bulot, Director of DHS’ Division of Aging Services. The All of Georgia’s 12 Area Agencies on Aging currently offer programs and supports designed to help family caregivers. For more information about services for older adults, call the Division of Aging Services toll-free at (866) 55-AGING (552-4464) or visit on the Web at aging.dhr.georgia.gov.

DECEMBER 16-JANUARY 6:
Firms Will Benefit from Fair Labor Standards Act Seminar. Attending a 90-minute seminar will help human resource and business managers understand the Fair Labor Standards Act, perhaps the most frequently violated federal employment laws. On Thursday, Jan. 12, labor law attorney Sarah Lamar will present Georgia Southern University’s 90-minute seminar “LAW 120: Wage and Hour Best Practices” to help managers develop an understanding of the pro-active and inexpensive steps their firms can take to avoid wage-hour claims and Department of Labor audits. The seminar runs from 6 til to 7:30 p.m. at the Coastal Georgia Center in Savannah, and pre-registration is required. To register or for more information on the $59 seminar, visit ceps.georgiasouthern.edu/conted or call the Continuing Education Center at (912) 478-5551. Online registration is still available when the University is closed for the holidays. Registration will close Jan. 6.

DECEMBER 16-JANUARY 3:
“Christmas Castaways” program at the Ships of the Sea Museum. Free admission for up to two children when accompanied by one paying adult. 41 MLK, Jr. Blvd., (912) 232-1511 or shipsofthesea.org.

DECEMBER 16-17:
Holiday Pops, The Festive Season, presented by the Savannah Philharmonic. 7:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, featuring special guest Harry O’Donoghue. Book well in advance for the Savannah Philharmonic’s annual holiday concerts featuring only the best of holiday cheer. Highlights from The Nutcracker and Messiah, and the popular season favorites “O Holy Night”, “Sleigh Ride” and much more. Still THE Holiday concert of choice in Savannah. (912) 525-5050 or savannahphilharmonic.org.

DECEMBER 16:
River Street Riverboat Company, Holiday Lunch Cruise. Adults, $36.97, Child, $19.95. 9 East River Street, (912) 629-2640.

DECEMBER 16:
Savannah Music Festival. Give the gift of live music, Gift cards are available by calling (912) 525-5050 or savannahmusicfestival.org/2012deals.

DECEMBER 16:
Lucas Theatre benefits Second Harvest of Coastal GA with a screening of HOME ALONE at 7 p.m.  Non-perishable items will be collected at the door. There are no tickets for this event. Admission by donation of at least one non-perishable item (per person) to be given to America’s Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia. Acceptable donation items include (but are not limited to): canned vegetables, canned soups, canned meats, peanut butter, toothbrushes, toiletries,  and diapers.  32 Abercorn St. (912) 525-5040

DECEMBER 17:
Visions of Sugar Plums! 2 to 4 pm. Children are invited to join park staff in making, molding, and painting and the holiday candy know as marzipan!  We will also be making other holiday decorations using oranges, cloves, and ribbons. Space is limited.  Reservations are requested. Please contact Gloria  Swift, Park Ranger, by phone at (912) 786-5787 extension 218 or via email  Gloria_Swift@nps.gov for more information. Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah.  An entrance fee of $5.00 per person is charged; ages 15 and  under are free.  Call the park at (912) 786-5787 for details, or visit the park’s official  website at nps.gov/fopu.

DECEMBER 17:
2011 Forsyth Farmers’ Market season wrap up with a punch and a dash. A fun run, holiday cheers and freebees to mark end of 2011. Interested parties for the event can register the day of the market, starting at 9 a.m. at the Critz Tybee Run Fest Booth who is co-sponsoring the fun run. All registered participants will be entered in a raffle to win one of three free entry registration (valid for all five events) to the CRITZ TYBEE RUN FEST in February 2012 (each valued at $120.00). (912) 692-8992 or cornelia@cscpconsult.com.

DECEMBER 17: 
5th Annual Luminary Fun Night with Santa 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Bring your children and pets for pictures with Santa, then walk our enchanted luminary trail. Enjoy holiday arts and crafts and caroling on hayrides. There will be holiday treats and hot chocolate. $5 parking and $1 hayrides  Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway. (912) 598-2300.

DECEMBER 18-19:
Holidays Bring Chess Camp for Beginners and Beyond .Georgia Southern University’s second annual holiday chess camp to train beginning and more advanced scholastic players. Participants can choose the 9 a.m. to noon beginners section or the 1p.m. to 4p.m. advanced camp. Both ChesSmart Holiday Camps are open for students in second grade through high school. Students who have already competed in U.S. Chess Federation rated tournaments are especially welcome to attend the advanced-players camp. The $55 camp fee covers all camp hand-outs and participation on both days. The discounted family rate is $49 per student for brothers and sisters from the same family. Camps meet each day in the Nessmith-Lane Conference Center on campus in Statesboro; chess sets will be provided for use during camp. To register, call toll-free (855) 478-5551. Contact J. Marie Lutz at seminars@georgiasouthern.edu or (912) 478-1763 or ceps.georgiasouthern.edu/conted/youthcollege.html.

DECEMBER 18: 
The Goliards presents A Mediaeval Christmas, 4 p.m. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 34^th & Abercorn. Tickets available at the door. Go to savannahgoliards.org. for more information.

DECEMBER 18:
Small Works Closing Reception Holiday sale event at Indigo Sky Community Gallery. For those who missed the opening reception, this is an opportunity to take in this marvelous exhibition while adding to your list of spectacular gift giving items.  All works are priced below $500. In addition, we are extremely pleased to be announcing that Jane Fishman will be on hand during this event, from 2-4, signing copies of her new book.  To put it in her own words: “I’m excited to share with you all that I’ve just published an anti-memoir of sorts: The Dirt on Jane.” All in all it’s gearing up to be an engaging afternoon affair, and we look forward to having you in attendance and partaking of the festive spirit.  Light refreshments will be served. Indigo Sky Community Gallery, 915 Waters Ave. (912) 233-7659 or galleryindigosky@aol.com.

DECEMBER 20:
Gaslight Group introduces Harp Music Sunday Brunch & Wine Dinner Series. Savannah Restaurant Group to create two enhanced dining experiences. will host a delectable wine dinner series at their newest location, Blue Turtle Bistro, in midtown Savannah. Executive Head Chef Jeff Crumpton and Blue Turtle chef Matt Baldwin are creating a specially designed five course menu to be paired with a variety of outstanding seasonal wines. The dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. on December 20th. Reservations are $90.00 per person, and are expected to fill up quickly. To be a part of this special event please call to reserve at: (912) 358-0808 or email info@blueturtlesavannah.com. For more information on wine dinner and future wine dinner scheduling please visit blueturtlesavannah.com.

DECEMBER 21:
Annual Charity Fishing Tournament raises over $6,000 for CASA. The Committee for Boys Fishing for Toys Children raised over $6,000 for Savannah/Chatham Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Inc. during its 5^th Annual Boys Fishing for Toys Annual Christmas Charity Fishing Tournament on Saturday, December 3, 2011. Proceeds generated from the tournament were used to purchase holiday gifts for children receiving courtroom advocacy from the volunteer agency. Savannah/Chatham CASA is a 501(c)3 non-profit agency that recruit, screen, train, and supervise community volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children who are under the jurisdiction of the Chatham County Juvenile Court. Savannah/Chatham CASA is proudly supported through funding from Georgia Department of Human Services – Promoting Safe & Stable Families, Criminal Justice Coordinating Council –State of Georgia, United Way of the Coastal Empire, National CASA, Georgia CASA, and direct public support.

DECEMBER 21:
Nature’s Holiday, 2 to 4 pm.  Using pine cones, peanut butter, bird seed, dried  oranges, and apples, edible holiday ornaments will be made for the enjoyment of our backyard wild friends! Space is limited. Reservations are requested. Please contact Gloria  Swift, Park Ranger, by phone at (912) 786-5787 extension 218 or via email at Gloria_Swift@nps.gov for more information. Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east  of Savannah.  An entrance fee of $5.00 per person is charged; ages 15 and  under are free. Call the park at (912) 786-5787 for details, or visit the park’s official website at nps.gov/fopu.

DECEMBER 24:
River Street Riverboat Company, Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise. Adults:  $49.95, Child:  $27.95. 9 East River St., (912) 629-2640.

DECEMBER 25:
“Country Star Revue” A two-hour salute to the music of the great country stars of the past 50 years. Singing Cowboys, bluegrass, folk and gospel and honky tonk from the 1930’s-1940’s. Rockabilly, country soul and country rock were popular during the 50s and 60s. Country Pop, Truck Driving country and Neocountry were all popular throughout the 70s & 80s. Mix all this together with today’s popular hits for a well-rounded Country Star Revue from the band and cast of the Savannah Theatre. Call for dates and show times. 222 Bull St., (912) 233-7764 or savannahtheatre.com.

DECEMBER 25:
Christmas –Just Across The River- Jazz Yule Love. The 36th Annual CJA Holiday Concert and Jam Session, Sunday @5:00 p.m. Westin –Savannah Harbor Resort on Hutchinson Island. Cost: $15 in advance, $20.

DECEMBER 25:
Christmas Day Brunch. An extra special holiday brunch prepared by Executive Chef Roger Michel and his extraordinary culinary staff. Reserve your spot early, as this holiday celebration will sell out, $55, (912) 201.2085. thewestinsavannah.com.

DECEMBER 26-30:
Holiday Evening Tours by Candlelight, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Admission: $8 adults in advance, $10 at the door; $5 children in advance, $7 at the door Glistening by candlelight, the Federal-style home welcomes visitors to an experience emphasizing  the end-of-year celebrations of early 19^th century Savannahians, including the Davenport household, who lived in the fine brick home on Columbia Square.  Light refreshments, music and skilled interpreters, who show visitors through the home, are among the highlights of the presentation. The performance requires that guests be able to walk up and down stairs and maneuver in the candlelit rooms. Isaiah Davenport House, a property of Historic Savannah Foundation 324 East State St. (912) 236-8097 or davenporthousemuseum.org.

DECEMBER 27-30:
“The Beat Goes On” From beach blanket parties to break-dancing, its big hair and big fun! The greatest hit songs from the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s. The Savannah Theatre celebrates the sounds of three generations as the cast sings its way along the musical highway of American pop hits with songs like California Girls, Stayin Alive, and the Heart of Rock and Roll. Call for dates and show times, 222 Bull St. (912) 233-7764 or savannahtheatre.com.

DECEMBER 31:
Celebrate the New Year. Join us for dinner at the acclaimed Aqua Star Restaurant then celebrate the New Year in Harbor Ballroom, with front row seats to the midnight fireworks. Packages include overnight accommodations, live entertainment, delectable desserts, a champagne toast, fireworks and much more! Ring in 2012 with style at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa! Packages available, (912) 201-2000.

DECEMBER 31:
New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the River Midnight (11:59 p.m.) RiverStreetSavannah.com.

DECEMBER 31: Ring in the New Year at City Market! It’s an outdoor street party and you are invited to join in the fun. Live music starts at 9:00 p.m. and lasts until 1:00 a.m. Free and open to the public; no tickets or reservations are required.  Be sure to make your dinner reservations at one of our outstanding restaurants. savannahcitymareket.com and phone is (912) 232-4903

 DECEMBER 31:
“Rockin New Year’s Eve”. A 2-hour musical explosion of your favorite hits from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. Beginning at 9 p.m. till… Join us for a fun filled evening of The Beat Goes On, followed by the Savannah Theatre band and cast performing songs to dance by. Wear your dancing shoes, as the cast will be inviting you to join them on stage for an evening of exciting music and dancing. To bring in the New Year at midnight we will have for your enjoyment – A Champagne Toast, Party favors and Fun! Fun! Fun! 222 Bull St., (912) 233-7764 or savannahtheatre.com.