(UPDATE: A 12-year-old Savannah boy named Keith Passmore was shot dead Saturday night Nov. 22. That means three children were shot in three different shootings in Savannah in less than one week.)

This week, two different shootings of Savannah children serve as horrific reminders of this city’s gun violence epidemic.

Kiaja Smalls, 2, was shot dead Tuesday night while sleeping in her Savannah Southside apartment.  The shots were fired from outside the apartment.

On Thursday, a Savannah 6-year-old girl was shot during a domestic dispute. She suffered non-fatal injuries.

Imagine if these cases involved another consumer product other than guns.

Imagine if Kiaja died because of a malfunction in a crib or if she swallowed a laundry detergent pod. Then we would hear from various health and public safety advocates about how to prevent such deaths along with tips about keeping our children safe.

However when it comes to gun violence as a public health issue – we rarely hear from the medical community about how to prevent gun violence.

Even though there are about about 11,000 homicides, 19,000 suicides and more than 2,000 fatal accidents involving guns every year nationwide.  That’s an average of 88 gun deaths per day.

We’d love to see Savannah physicians become more active in counseling patients and the public about firearm safety and working to reduce injuries and deaths from firearms, in the same way that they work to reduce injuries and deaths from poisonings, smoking, motor vehicle traffic accidents, incorrectly installed car seats etc.

For example, how many pediatricians regularly tell parents that according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the safest home for children is one without guns?

Health experts – we would love to talk to you about Savannah’s gun violence epidemic and to get your input about what we as parents can do to prevent these shootings from becoming the new normal. Please contact us at anne@southernmamas.com

Funeral donations
Donations are being accepted for the funeral expenses for Kiaja Smalls, 2, who was shot and killed Tuesday night inside a Savannah apartment. The family says donations will be accepted at any local Wells Fargo Bank. A gofundme page has also been set up for the family: http://www.gofundme.com/hid3wk

Clearance Blowout this Saturday December 6th  at Once Upon A Child in Savannah @ 1100 Eisenhower Drive Eisenhower Square.

Once Upon A Child Savannah, 1100 Eisenhower Drive Eisenhower Square, Savannah, 31406 tel: 912-351-0555, http://www.onceuponachildsavannah.com/  Once Upon A Child Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Looking for a Savannah preschool for next fall that has a proven history as a well-established, quality preschool? Check out First Christian Preschool, which was formed in 1952 by Carolyn S. Jordan and has been in continuous operation since that date.

First Christian Preschool of Savannah
711 E. Victory Drive, Savannah

The preschool – located on Victory Drive in the Savannah’s Ardsley Park –  serves 15 mths to 4-year-old children and is in session from 9AM to noon Monday through Friday. First Christian Church members receive a 25% discount on tuition.

First Christian Preschool provides an environment that is warm and welcoming so that your child will feel safe and comfortable. Classrooms are bright and inviting so your child will be excited about learning and will be prepared for kindergarten. Most of all, your child will have a lot of fun and be involved in meaningful play. Play is a child’s “work” and it is through play that a child learns to be social, to solve problems, to be independent and to be creative.

The preschool employs the Unit Approach Curriculum. It is designed to meet appropriate skill levels for each age group.

The school offers a Spanish program as part of the curriculum for the 3 and 4-year-olds . Music is incorporated into daily activities in the classrooms and all classes come together Friday mornings for music.

Children participate in two school-wide programs, one at Christmas and an end-of-the-year program. A Thanksgiving feast, carpool and lunch bunch, and early birds are other activities that are a part of the preschool program.

Some of the activities all of students participate in are:
Fall Festival
School Wide Pajama Party
Dessert with Daddy
Mother’s Day Tea
Graduation Program
Friday Morning Music

The preschool includes Christian principles in its program, teaching the children the Christian values of loving, sharing, being kind to one another

Visitors are welcome. First Christian Preschool staff  look forward to meeting you and your children.

For more information, please call Mrs. Sarah Marquez at 912-234-3149 or email firstchristianpreschool@yahoo.com

First Christian Preschool, 711 E. Victory Drive, Savannah, 31405, 912 234-3149,   https://www.facebook.com/pages/First-Christian-Preschool/153225621412477?fref=ts First Christian Preschool is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

The Savannah Festival of Lights 2014 offers an all new, exciting holiday experience for kids of all ages with the addition of the Winter Carnival located in Bryan Square, adjacent to The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa and the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center.

One of the most important factors this year in creating the Winter Carnival, was the ability to move all of the family indoor and outdoor activities over to Bryan Square, with access to free parking at the Trade & Convention Center, The Westin and the beautiful Riverfront Esplanade views for the carnival rides. The Festival of Lights light show is located just across the street at the Grand Prize of America Road Course.

New at this year’s festival:

• Festival of Lights features a holiday light show with a self drive-through 80 light display, a $20 per car ticket and/or an interactive, guided Trolley Tour, with free parking at the Trade Center
• Ferris Wheel in Bryan Square, with majestic views of the river and downtown
• Carousel & Swing rides
• Santa’s Bourbon & Chocolate Lounge with a special holiday menu for adults and children
• Inflatable Village with the Arctic Plunge, various obstacle courses, train rides and the “Sugar Shack” with hot chocolate and great sweet treats from Santa’s elves
• Breakfast with Santa Sun. Dec. 21
• Photos with Santa Claus and in the new Winter Wonderland Snow Globe
• Holiday Concert series and local performances.
• S’mores Kits with stations for roasting marshmallows and interactive holiday activities for the kids
• “Frozen” Princess Parade – where girls of all ages are encouraged to dress-up as their favorite princess and parade through the Gingerbread Village Mon. Dec. 22
• Snow Machines on the festival grounds
• Expanded Gingerbread Village with 80 entries

Boat Parade of Lights, Nov. 29

The Savannah Harbor Boat Parade of Lights on Saturday, November 29 will feature over 30 boats, holiday concert, Bag Pipes, Oglethorpe Christmas Proclamation, snow machines, kids activities, carnival rides, fireworks and the arrival of Santa Claus. Details & schedule of events here. 

The 2014 Savannah Harbor Festival of Lights dates and hours:

Fri. Nov. 28 – Sun. November 30:  6-10 PM
Thurs-Sun.: December 4-7; December 11-14:  6-10 PM
Open All Holiday Nights: Thurs. Dec. 18-Sun. Dec. 28: 6-10 PM

FAMILY VEHICLE PRICING
$20 up to 8 passengers
$40 9-16 passengers

WINTER CARNIVAL PRICING
Admission to the Carnival is included with the drive-through light show, but pricing for the Winter Carnival rides varies. All rides and concessions are 1-7 tickets. Ferris wheel: $5 for adults; $3 for children. Concessions available for purchase.

Nightly events include:

Festival of Lights car tours and Trolley Tours, Gingerbread Village Tours, Winter Carnival rides and Inflatables Village and Fun Zone, Sugar Shack, holiday movies, live musical performances, see Santa Claus and more!

Special event schedule:

Friday, November 28 – Grand Opening, Sawers Family Volunteer Night
Saturday, November 29 – Savannah Harbor Foundation Boat Parade of Lights presented by WTOC-TV and Official Christmas Tree Lighting, with Fireworks Display
Thursday, December 4 – Savannah Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours and Oyster Roast, celebrating the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa’s 15th Anniversary (private event). Festival of Lights & Winter Carnival open to the public.
Thursday, December 5 – South East Bullock High School Choir Concert
Thursday, December 11 – WTOC Night, “Elf on the Run” race.
Sunday, December 14 – Humane Society Volunteer Night
Wednesday, December 17 – Fabulous Equinox Holiday Concert benefiting the Empty Stocking Fund
Thursday, December 18 – Garrison Wind Ensemble
Friday, December 19 – Starlight Jazz Band
Saturday, December 20 – Reindeer Run
Sunday, December 21 – Brunch with Santa
Monday, December 22 – “Frozen” Princess Parade presented by Christmas on 98.7 The River
Tuesday, December 23 – BI-LO Night, Free Gingerbread Cookie Decorating
December 27– Jingle Jog
**Schedule subject to change

For additional information, visit www.savannahharborfoundation.com.

Follow the Festival of Lights & Winter Carnival on Facebook here.

FOR MORE SAVANNAH-AREA HOLIDAY FAMILY EVENTS, VISIT OUR HOLIDAY FUN GUIDE 2014 BY CLICKING HERE. 

Christmas 1886 with the Gordons
Nov. 20– Dec. 30 2014
Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace

Step back in time at the Juliette Low Birthplace, beautifully decorated for the holidays. Explore customs during the Victorian era and how the Gordons celebrated in 1886. The table is set for Christmas dinner, the stockings are ready in Mama’s bedroom, and the vintage “Game of Merry Christmas” is out. Admission charged. Admission costs here. 
(10 E. Oglethorpe, Savannah 31401)
Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10AM -4PM
Sunday 11AM-4PM
Closed Wednesdays, Thanksgiving Day, Dec. 24 – 26, 28, 31 including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve.
Open Nov. 28 1-4 PM

Details here. 

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Holiday Evening Tours by Candlelight
Davenport House Museum
December 26-30 2014
6 -8:30PM
Enjoy a glimpse of how the elite celebrated the holidays in the 19th Century in the Old South. This is a real taste of colonial life you won’t find anywhere else. (324 East State St. Savannah 31401)
Details including admission cost here.

FOR MORE SAVANNAH-AREA HOLIDAY FAMILY EVENTS, VISIT OUR HOLIDAY FUN GUIDE 2014 BY CLICKING HERE. 

Parent and Child Holiday Clay Workshop & Fused Glass Ornament Workshop will be offered Dec. 6 2014 @ City of Savannah’s Department of Cultural Affairs studios at 9 W. Henry St.

Register now online here or by calling (912) 651-6783.

Cost

Fused Glass Ornament Workshop fee is $15 per person. Holiday Clay Workshop is $15 per parent & child duo. 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.

Art classes & workshops @ City of Savannah’s Department of Cultural Affairs studios. 9 W. Henry St. (912) 651-6783 On Facebook here. On Twitter here. Savannah Dept. of Cultural Affairs is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Telfair Museums in Savannah has two fun & educational programs for young children – babies, toddlers & preschoolers – to visit the museum, learn and make art together.

Stroller Tours Stroller Tours 3rd Thursday of Every Month
9:30-10:15am
Telfair Museums is excited to introduce its newest program for the stroller set! Join Telfair Museums for a monthly gathering where parents & caregivers can enjoy a morning at the museum while also engaging infants with art. Babies thrive on dynamic environments, so each month we’ll explore a different set of artwork. There will be touchable toys for the little ones, adult conversation for you & like-minded art lovers. Finish your visit with a leisurely talk over complimentary coffee & tea in Telfair Museum’s café. Strollers, crying & older siblings are all welcome here.

December 18 – Color/Contrast
Discover different ways colors are combined in abstract and representational works in Savannah Collects.

Infants from 2-18 months and adults welcome. Included with museum admission; free to members. Ten spaces are available.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-REGISTER or contact Glenna Barlow at 912.790.8821.

Telfair Tots 3rd Thursday of Every Month
10:30-11:30am
Start your day with art! Once a month preschoolers aged 2 ½ – 5 and their adult companions are invited to the museum for story time, a special tour, and an art activity. Younger siblings are welcome to tag along. Come play and learn with us!

December 18 – Silver and Gold
These shiny metals aren’t just for jewelry. Take a walk with us to explore the various metals and materials used in sculptures around the museum. Then you‘ll create your own modified brass rubbings in silver and gold.

Activity fee is $5 per participating child; regular museum admission for caregivers. Adult members are always free.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-REGISTER or contact Glenna Barlow at 912.790.8821.

The two above new programs are in addition to other kids’ programs currently offered by Telfair Museums in Savannah including WCWM (What Can We Make?) & FREE Family Days offered one Saturday a month. Details here. 

Jepson Center, 207 W York St. Savannah, 31401 , http://telfair.org/learn/family-programs Telfair Museums is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

FOR MORE MOMMY & ME ACTIVITIES IN SAVANNAH & THE LOWCOUNTRY, CLICK HERE. 

Did you know there is an amazing youth orchestra program right here in Savannah?

If you’re not already involved, come and listen to this Sunday’s Fall concert at Armstrong in Savannah and hear students doing a great job.

Armstrong Atlantic Youth Orchestra
Neil Casey, Conductor

The Atlantic Chamber Orchestra
Lyric Youth Orchestra AND Debut Strings & Lyric Strings Ensembles

Fall Concert
Sunday, November 23, 2014
ASU Fine Arts Auditorium
3:00 PM
Adults $10.00
All students FREE
Tickets: available at the door

Armstrong Atlantic Youth Orchestra organizers are also a great resource to find Savannah-area music instructors.

Learn more here.

Barnett Educational Supplies in Savannah has all your Thanksgiving decorations & supplies.

Please like Barnett on Facebook here to stay updated on their sales & products.

Barnett is open until 5PM Wednesday Nov. 26. Closed on Thanksgiving Day. Then open again for their Black Friday sale on Friday, 9AM-7 PM

Store hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM-7 PM; Sat: 10 AM-5 PM; Sun: 1- 5 PM.

Barnett Educational Supplies, 38 W De Renne Ave., Savannah, 31405-6742, tel: 912-356-1878, email barneduc@bellsouth.net   www.barnetteducationalsupplies.com , Barnett Educational Supplies is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Scribble Art Studio in Savannah & Pooler offer oodles of ways to keep your kids creating this holiday season including kids workshops where they make & wrap a present.

To learn more about Scribble’s holiday workshops, ongoing art classes & children’s birthdays in Pooler & Savannah, click here or call 912-713-7376 or email info@thescribbleartstudio.com

Savannah location: 212 E 37th St, Savannah, 31401

Pooler location: 115 Canal St, Pooler, GA 31322

Scribble Art Studio in Savannah & Pooler also offers private & group art classes, summer art camps, adult art parties & children’s birthday parties, both in the studio & at-home DIY art birthday kits. For gifts, Scribble as art kits & gift certificates. For more information, contact artist Carrie Christian at (912) 713-7376 or email info@thescribbleartstudio.com  . Click here for more info. Scribble Art Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

2014 Sailing With Santa Cruise with Savannah Riverboat Cruises

Take your Christmas photo on board with Santa! Kids sail FREE with the donation of an unwrapped toy. (*prices do no include 3% port fee and 7% sales tax) This year’s toy donations will benefit:  The Salvation Army.

Use Promo Code SSM to receive 10% off an adult ticket when you bring your child/children with a new, unwrapped toy. 

DATES: Friday, November 28th; Saturday, November 29th; Saturday, December 6th & Saturday, December 13th

Boards at 1:30PM; Sails from 2-3PM

Prices: Adult: $21.95- Children 4-12: $12.95

Learn more here. 

To reserve your family’s spot, click here.  Use Promo Code SSM to receive 10% off an adult ticket when you bring your child/children with a new, unwrapped toy. 

Savannah Riverboat Cruises is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Gone with the Wind will be shown at the Lucas Theater in downtown Savannah FRIDAY NOVEMBER 28 AT 7 PM

Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of this classic film.

Rated PG. 238 minutes.

Tickets are $8 general admission or $5 student/senior/military. Also eligible for use with the Lucas Theatre Movie Pass. Available online or by calling 912-525-5050. You may also pick up tickets in person at the Savannah Box Office at 216 E. Broughton Street.

Don’t miss Happy Half Hour before each of the Lucas Theater movies. From 6-6:30 enjoy half price beer and popcorn specials.

Details here.

For the first time ever, the Savannah Philharmonic is offering a Family Holiday Pops concert this holiday season!

Along with special guests the Savannah Children’s Choir, the Philharmonic will feature performances from the popular films Frozen and The Polar Express, as well as traditional holiday classics

The Family Holiday Pops concert will be Saturday, December 13 at 3PM

The one-hour musical event will be held at Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, one of the most visited attractions in historic Savannah.

General admission tickets are $25 for a family of four or $10 for a single ticket. Learn more here. 

“As a cultural arts organization, we feel it is important to give back to the community and generate interest in music and the arts,” said David Pratt, executive director. “That is one reason we priced tickets for the Family Holiday Pops concert so reasonably, so everyone can enjoy the spectacular sensation of listening to beautiful music.”

For more information about the Family Holiday Pops concert, or about the Annual Holiday Pops evening performances, please contact the Savannah Philharmonic at 912.525.5050 or visit savannahphilharmonic.org.

FOR MORE SAVANNAH-AREA HOLIDAY FAMILY EVENTS, VISIT OUR HOLIDAYS FUN GUIDE BY CLICKING HERE. 

Take advantage of incredible last minute Disney Cruise deals and share the splendor of the holidays onboard a Very MerryTime Cruise.

A winter wonderland awaits you aboard each Disney Cruise ship as well as on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. You’ll enjoy special holiday-themed entertainment, decorations and activities including:

Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic –Disney characters lead holiday carols and the lighting of the glittering, three-deck-tall tree.

Winter Wonderland Ball – Celebrate the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus, with your favorite Disney friends at a glamorous ball.

Holiday Carolers – Dickens-inspired characters and carolers carry the spirit of the holidays throughout the ship while singing holiday classics, sometimes with the help of favorite Disney friends.

All of these special events are in addition to the activities you already love, like meet and greets with Santa, building gingerbread houses, listening to holiday storytellers and dancing at the tropical-themed “Deck the Deck Holiday Party.”

With last minute rates as low as $108 per person, per night you don’t want to miss this opportunity to spend quality time with your family this holiday season! These rates are available on select 3, 4, or 7-night itineraries sailing from Port Canaveral or Miami.

Hurry, these deals won’t last long. Call Tara McCoy at Two Sisters Travel 843-284-3241 for details, or get a no-obligation quote online!

Tara McCoy, Vacation Specialist at Two Sisters Travel

843.284.3241

Become a Facebook fan at facebook.com/twosisterstravel

 Tara McCoy is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Enjoy a meal for four each Friday with fresh organic foods for only $21 from SCAD’s Cafe Bon Appetit in Savannah!

Simply email Eric Davidson at eric.davidson@cafebonappetit.com by 2 PM Thursday. Please put FOHTY in the subject line (From Our House to Yours) Give him your name for the order and let him know that you were referred by SouthernMamas.com . . . and, enjoy your meal!

Meals are ready for pick up on Fridays between 3:00pm and 6:00pm at Jo’s Cafe, 201 W. Oglethorpe Avenue.

Learn more here. 

THANKSGIVING MENU

Want a less-stressful Turkey Day? Order a complete Thanksgiving meal to pick up.

Check out SCAD’s Cafe Bon Appetit  Thanksgiving menu above.

To place your order, call Heather at 912.525.8745 or email heather.carbone@cafebonappetit.com. Orders must be placed by 2PM Mon. Nov. 24.

SCAD’s Cafe Bon Appetit,  http://scad.cafebonappetit.com/events/, 201 W. Oglethorpe Ave., Savannah, 31401 email eric.davidson@cafebonappetit.com. On Facebook here. SCAD’s Cafe Bon Appetit is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

Certified Labor Doula Ann Carroll and Savannah Yoga Center present Couples Tool Box for Labor and Delivery @ Savannah Yoga Center’s Savannah location, 1319 Bull St. 31401.

Moms-to-be, bring your labor partner to this nurturing workshop for hands-on practice in providing pre-delivery comfort: breathing, massage, positioning, pressure points and more.

Join Certified Labor Doula Ann Carroll for a 2 hour workshop for you and your partner.

Click here to learn more and register.

Savannah Yoga Center in Savannah & Pooler, 1319 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401 & 111 Canal St. #101, Pooler, GA 31322 On Facebook here.
Email info@savannahyoga.com (912) 232-2994, email savannahyoga@gmail.com , www.savannahyoga.com Savannah Yoga Center is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Attention parents of all homeschool students in the Greater Savannah area: you’re invited on a FREE field trip for area homeschoolers.

Coastal Wetlands/Mitigation Bank Tour
Presented by USArmy Corps of Engineers
Friday, November 21, 2014
9:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
J. F. Gregory Park (playground area)
520 Cedar Street, Richmond Hill, GA
912-756-3345, City Hall-Richmond Hill

Dress Code: Field Attire*
*long pants/jeans, long sleeve shirts, closed shoes/sneakers, layered clothing for weather changes, hats, bug spray, etc.
Cost: FREE
Pack a healthy lunch and join  Independent Learning Network, Inc.  after the tour under the covered pavilion

RSVP: info@iln-ga.org or (912)355-7557

Independent Learning Network, Inc., email info@iln-ga.org, tel: (912)355-7557  7160 Hodgson Memorial Dr., Suite 101,www.iln-ga.org On Facebook here. Savannah Independent Learning Network is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

The Melting Pot of Savannah will be open this Thanksgiving Thurs. Nov. 27.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with your friends or family Fondue Style at The Melting Pot from 2-8PM.

The Melting Pot will be offering some special courses just for this day including a Cranberry-Walnut Cheddar Cheese fondue, “Tur-duc-ken” entrée, white chocolate pumpkin pie fondue. Their regular menu will also be available for those who love their classic items.

Holiday parties

Receive a free $50 giftcard for yourself when you book a holiday/Christmas party of 13 or more in December @ The Melting Pot in Savannah.

From private parties with family & friends to corporate luncheons & events, The Melting Pot has all the ingredients to make your party both spectacular and memorable. Three course fondue parties starting at $23 per person. Please call for more details.

November military special

Military & First Responders, The Melting Pot of Savannah put together a special to say thank you for all you do for all of us. For the month of November, come in and enjoy the 4-course Land & Sea dinner for $29.95. That’s a special price to honor some very special people as a thank you for all that you do. ***Not valid with any additional promotion or discount, must show ID

Click here for event details  & other special events @ The Melting Pot Savannah.

The Melting Pot, 232 E. Broughton St. Savannah, Ga 31401 tel: 912-349-5676 for reservations,www.meltingpot.com/savannah  The Melting Pot of Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Colonial Christmas at Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah
Sunday, Dec 21, 2014 12 PM to 4 PM

Participate in activities such as caroling, burning of the yule log, dancing to live period music, and other holiday observances of the colonial period, including games and refreshments.

$4.50-$10. 912-353-3023.

Wormsloe Historic Site, 7601 Skidaway Rd Savannah, 31406, http://gastateparks.org/Wormsloe  

FOR MORE FAMILY HOLIDAY EVENTS IN SAVANNAH & NEARBY, CLICK HERE. 

On December 19-20, Fort Pulaski National Monument will commemorate the Confederate Nog party of 1861 with the night-time Fort Pulaski Candle Lantern Tour.

Hot cider, cookies, caroling and weapons firings will allow guests to re-live the festive occasion of 1861.

Fort Pulaski commemorates the Confederate Nog party of 1861 each year during the holiday season. The long-lived Savannah tradition provides night-time tours of the historic fort by candlelight and oil lamps.

The original party, held at Christmas time in 1861, gave the Confederate garrison at Fort Pulaski a respite from the tension of impending battle. The fort casemates, armed with cannons, were decorated with holiday garlands. As one soldier commented, tables groaned under the weight of fine delicacies sent down from the city. With song and good cheer, the men celebrated a light-hearted moment as the dark clouds of war gathered over Savannah.

Guests will have the unique experience of a guided tour for the fort by moonlight. Hot cider and cookies, music, caroling and night-time weapons firings will allow guests 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 by phone at 912-786-5787, extension 109. The cost of the program is $5 per adult. Children 15 and under are free, but reservations must also be made for children. For more information, please visit www.nps.gov/fopu or call (912) 786-5787.

Other holiday events on Tybee Island 

*The Lights On for Tybee Celebration begins on Fri. Dec. 5 at 6:30PM, when Mayor Jason Buelterman lights the Christmas tree downtown at the Tybrisa/Strand Roundabout. The evening will include a variety of live entertainment, extended store hours, specials and complimentary refreshments at participating locations throughout downtown Tybee Island. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will also make a special appearance. Children can also enjoy gently falling snowflakes from the Sea & Breeze throughout the evening.

*The Tybee Island Christmas Parade, 1 PM Saturday, Dec. 6 Runs from the 14th Street beachfront lot (behind Ocean Plaza) to the YMCA on 5th Street.  Mr. & Mrs. Claus then are led to the Tybee Gym for photo time & family fun.

*Tybee Island New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration, Wed. Dec. 31 at the stroke of midnight. Enjoy the fireworks from the pier, the beach or anywhere on the east side of the island.

* Tybee Polar Plunge at the Tybee Pier & Pavilion, noon Thursday, Jan. 1 2015 thousands of island visitors and residents decked out in their favorite costumes will dive into the frigid Atlantic Ocean for a brisk and refreshing way to start the New Year.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah en route to Tybee Is.  For more information, click here or call (912) 786-5787.

FOR MORE SAVANNAH AREA HOLIDAY EVENTS, CLICK HERE. 

150th Winter Muster
Sat. Dec 13, 2014 9 AM-4 PM

Civil War History Event: Come join Fort McAllister in Richmond Hill on the actual date — 150 years since General Sherman ordered his troops to take Ft. McAllister. Watch as they reenact this significant moment in our country’s history. Help make this 150th Winter Muster the greatest one yet. The museum and staging area will be closed to the public at 4PM and will reopen for the battle at 5 PM. 912-727-2339.

This 150th Anniversary of Sherman’s ‘March to the Sea’ will bring 300 Re-enactors to Fort McAllister exactly 150 years after Gen. William T. Sherman ended his “March to the Sea” by overtaking the fort.

Additional public events planned for December 11 and 12 as well.
The three-day commemoration begins Thursday, December 11 as Union soldiers set up camp at the Richmond Hill Museum and answer visitors’ questions about the upcoming battle.
On Friday, soldiers will march from the intersection of Highway 144 and Fort McAllister Road to the park, setting up camp when they arrive.
By 9 a.m. on Saturday, the fort will be filled with Confederate soldiers as they prepare for the battle they know is coming. Throughout the day, visitors can watch skirmishes between Union and Confederate troop as they fire muskets and cannons. Guests can also walk among the earthworks and tour a Civil War museum.
Then at 5 p.m., the same time that the actual battle occurred 150 years ago, visitors can watch Union forces breach the fort and take Confederates as prisoners.
When Union troops took control of Fort McAllister in 1864, they marked the end of Gen. Sherman’s “March to the Sea” and enabled him to present Savannah as a Christmas gift to President Lincoln.

“Fort McAllister is a very significant part of Georgia’s history, and we’re especially pleased that our annual Winter Muster falls on the exact date of the original battle” said Park Manager Jason Carter. “This event is expected bring in a large number of visitors to the Richmond Hill and Savannah areas, so it’s good for tourism. They will be dining and shopping at local businesses and making a positive impact on our community.”

Fort McAllister State Park is located on the Ogeechee River. Admission to Winter Muster is $6. To learn more, visit www.GaStateParks.org/fortmcallister or call 912-727-2339.

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A Soldier’s Serenade with the Eighth Georgia Regimental
Sat. Dec 20, 2014 noon-4 PM

Step back in time as the Fort McAllister is filled with the sounds and songs of the Eighth Georgia Regimental Civil War Band. This is a unique opportunity to experience the “in the moment” of the Civil War era with this phenomenal instrumental band. Admission and time of event TBA. 912-727-2339.

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Christmas Carols Around the Campfire
Sat. Dec 20, 2014 7 PM-8 PM

Fort McAllister campground guests are invited to come to a campfire at the assembly shelter where the choir from Saint Elizabeth Episcopal Church will be singing Christmas Carols. You are welcome to join them in singing carols that we all know. Get your Jingle on and come get in the Christmas spirit. $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

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First Day Hikes

Thurs. Jan 1, 2015 10 AM-2:30 PM
Join Fort McAllister at 10AM for a 3 mile nature hike with Ranger Rowe on the Redbird Creek Trail. This hike is medium difficulty and requires sturdy shoes and water. At 1:00 there will be a History Hike in and around the fort. An Interpretative Ranger will walk you through the past and tell you about the daily life at Fort McAllister during the war. $3. Children under 5 free. $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Location:
Fort McAllister State Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, 31324

FOR MORE FAMILY HOLIDAY EVENTS IN SAVANNAH & NEARBY CLICK HERE. 

SouthCoast Health Imaging to host 3D mammography mobile coach at Belk in
Savannah and Hilton Head Island this month.

SouthCoast Health Imaging will host Hologic, Inc.’s 3D mammography mobile coach tour bus in Savannah on Wednesday, Nov. 19, and on Hilton Head Island on Thursday, Nov. 20. The bus will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. both days to share educational information on the benefits of 3D mammography.

The mobile coach will be outside of Belk locations at Savannah’s Oglethorpe Mall (7804 Abercorn St.) and Hilton Head Island (28 Shelter Cove Ln.) on Nov. 19 and 20, respectively. During the free educational events, guests are invited to tour the mobile coach to learn how this groundbreaking 3D technology has become the new standard in breast cancer screenings. 3D mammogram services will not be offered on the mobile coach during these events.

Representatives from Hologic, Inc. and SouthCoast Health Imaging will be on board the mobile coach to answer questions and provide health and wellness information for women of all ages.

For more information about the mobile coach events, contact SouthCoast Health Imaging’s Rachael DeRing at
SCMG-Imaging@SouthCoastMedical.com or (912) 691-4200.

SouthCoast Health is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training in Savannah is excited to announce a new partnership with Fleet Feet’s CREW program and the Publix Savannah Women’s Half Marathon.

Team In Training fundraising participants enjoy complimentary half marathon training with CREW and complimentary race registration for the inaugural Publix Savannah Women’s Half Marathon (March 28 2015) You win. Cancer loses.

Plus, Southern Mamas readers can register for Team in Training at half price with coupon code SAVMAMA. Register here.

Attend an Info Meeting this Thursday, November 13th at 6pm to learn more @ LLS Office – 340 Eisenhower Dr. Ste 220. Call 912-436-3273 for details. 

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training program in Savannah is an endurance sports training program open to runners and walkers of all abilities.

Since 1988, the program has helped over 600,000 participants cross the finish line and raise over $1 billion to help cure blood cancers. These are not professional athletes or professional fundraisers, these are folks just like you!

Stay connected by liking Team in Training Savannah Facebook page here.

Event Info: Three events are being offered this season.  1. The Asheville Marathon at Biltmore – March 15^th.  A gorgeous course on Biltmore Estate property.  Half and full marathon options. 2. Publix Savannah Women’s Half Marathon & 5K – March 28^th   (FREE race registration for Team in Training Savannah) 3. Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon & Half – May 3^rd.

Training Info: The local Savannah-based group will begin training on December 13^th.  Tuesday and Thursday mornings and evenings and Saturday mornings.  There are several groups of all different paces.  Organizers try to make sure everyone has a buddy.  5K training begins in January.

Team in Training Savannah, www.teamintraining.org/ga/  On Facebook here. Team in Training is SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Savannah Mall has special showings of The Polar Express movie this Sat. Nov. 15 @ the Carmike Wynnsong to kick off the holiday season

Savannah Mall is giving lucky SouthernMamas readers 25 pairs of tickets to see The Polar Express at the theater – 13 pairs of tickets for the 10AM show and 12  pairs for the 12 noon show.

To enter to win, visit the Savannah Mall Facebook page by clicking here and on their wall share what activity you are most looking forward to doing with your kids this holiday season in Savannah. (Visit our Savannah Holidays 2014 Guide for ideas.) Deadline to enter: 10 PM Wed. Nov. 12. We’ll pick the winners at random and message the winners via Facebook so please check your Facebook messages.

Santa’s arrival, Breakfast with Santa Cow 

Get details about Santa’s arrival at Savannah Mall this Fri. Nov. 14; Breakfast with Santa Cow Sat. Nov. 15 at Chick-fil-A;  the holiday train and light show here. 

Savannah Mall, 14045 Abercorn Street, www.savannahmall.com , 912-927-7467. The Savannah Mall is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

FOR MORE KIDS’ HOLIDAY EVENTS IN SAVANNAH & NEARBY, CLICK HERE.