Live Oak Public Libraries cardholders can now obtain Zoo Atlanta Family Passes at any of the 18 library branches in Chatham, Effingham and Liberty Counties. The pass is valid for two adults and up to two children.

Just check out a Zoo Atlanta DVD and return it to receive a Zoo Atlanta Family Pass.

One Zoo Atlanta Family Pass is available for checkout for one week at each participating library branch. The pass is not valid for fee-based events or programs and may not be combined with other discounts or promotions. Standard general admission will apply to families with additional children; children must be accompanied by an adult.

The partnership between Zoo Atlanta and the Georgia Public Library Service allows adults with valid library cards access to the Zoo Atlanta Family Pass at any participating public library branch throughout the state of Georgia. For more info on Live Oak Public Libraries or to find a branch near you, click here.

Summer Fine Arts Camps
Messy Mornins’
June 6-10 or June 20-24 for ages 5-7
9:00am-12:30pm
Special for Southernmamas readers: register before April 1st and receive $30 off the regular registration fee!!
Drawing Workshop
June 13-16 for ages 8-11
10am-12pm
Special for Southernmamas readers: register before April 1st and receive $30 off the regular registration fee!!
For curriculum details and pricing ….CONTACT Torrey Kist, MFA at 354-5988 or tskart@yahoo.com

Spring 8 week classes schedule starts week of March 21st!

Mondays …4-5:30pm …ages 5-8 …. Intro into 3D-Things!

Tuesdays …4-530pm… ages 5-6 …. Intro into 3D-Things!

Wednesdays… 4-5pm… ages 9-11…. Intro into Painting with Acrylics! (Outdoor painting included)

Thursdays… 4-530pm… ages 5-7 …. Intro into 3D-Things!

Private classes available year-round for ages 3-18 and now available on select Saturdays! Portfolio Development always available for students applying art magnet schools!

Enroll Today! Classes are small so space is limited!

For curriculum details and pricing ….CONTACT Torrey Kist, MFA at 354-5988 or tskart@yahoo.com

UPDATE: The winner is Aimee Peavy! Congratulations, Aimee. Enjoy!

Yummy. This week’s SouthernMamas.com giveaway: a dozen cupcakes from Gigi’s Cupcakes of Savannah , which opens Fri. March 11 5521 Abercorn St., next to Petite Feet and across from the Publix Twelve Oaks Shopping Center. 

To enter to win, “like” Gigi’s Cupcakes in Savannah on Facebook by clicking here. Then on the Gigi’s Cupcakes FB page, tell us the flavor cupcake you are most looking forward to trying when Gigi’s opens in Savannah. Check out some flavors on the Gigi’s Cupcakes of Savannah Web site! Not into Facebook? You can enter to win by answering below this post! (Click on Comments)

Deadline to enter is Fri. March 11. We’ll pick a winner at random and announce her name here Fri. March 11, grand opening day of  Gigi’s Cupcakes of Savannah . Winner needs to redeem cupcakes sometime during the month of March.

Gigi’s Facebook fans get a free cupcake by Gigi’s. There will be a coupon on the Facebook page to print out and bring in on Grand Opening Day.

Each handmade cupcake is made with the finest and freshest ingredients like Saigon Cinnamon, Madagascar Vanilla, farm fresh creamy butter, hand selected fruits and nuts, along with the smoothest cream cheese. More than seventy custom flavored cupcakes include Lemon Dream Supreme, Hunka Chunka Banana Love, Cookies & Cream, German Sweet Chocolate, Ginger Bread, Carrot Cake, Bailey’s Irish Cream, Birthday Surprise, Chocolate Malts, Kiddie Cake, Tiramisu, Wedding Cake and more. They also offer seasonal menu options.

Gigi’s cupcakes are $3 each or $2.75 each if purchased by the dozen. Each purchase includes a specially designed gift box, making a Gigi’s cupcake the perfect gift. Custom orders are accepted with a 1-day lead time and the exceptional staff is looking forward to customizing your next order for your special event. Orders can be placed on-line, by fax or by calling the store. Gigi’s Cupcakes will cater special events, parties and weddings. For more information about Gigi’s Cupcakes, click here .

Gigi’s Cupcakes of Savannah, 5521 Abercorn St, Suite 100, Mon–Sat: 10am-6pm, 912.349.2778 or email savannahga@gigiscupcakesusa.com , www.gigiscupcakesusa.com/savannahgeorgia,  Gigi’s Cupcakes of Savannah is a SouthernMamas sponsor.

11AM-1 PM St Patrick’s Day Crafts and Games at Skidaway Island State Park
3 PM Snakes Alive! Learn all about snakes. See live examples.
Interpretive Center hours: Wednesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Come see the display of the Giant Ground Sloth replica, wildlife exhibits,live reptiles, and birding station. Programs meet promptly at the Interpretive Center unless otherwise noted
http://www.gastateparks.org/SkidawayIsland

12PM Fossil Friday: Come check out fossils and artifacts that can be found around the park.
3 PM Giants of Skidaway: Come learn about the amazing Giant Sloth and others that roamed Skidaway 10,000 years ago.
Interpretive Center hours: Wednesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Come see the display of the Giant Ground Sloth replica, wildlife exhibits,live reptiles, and birding station. Programs meet promptly at the Interpretive Center unless otherwise noted
http://www.gastateparks.org/SkidawayIsland

Here’s a way you can help a Savannah College of Art and Design professor who was recently diagnosed with cancer.

Savannah artists and art professors have banded together in the hopes of relieving some of the financial burdens that art professor Sherran Deems is facing while battling cancer. Several of her friends and co-workers who teach drawing in the foundationʼs department at SCAD have decided to throw an art auction and exhibition hoping to raise enough funds to help Sherran pay for chemotherapy and radiation treatments as well as many other unexpected surgeries and expenses that accompanies many who face such a challenging illness. Read more about Sherry’s story by clicking here.

The art exhibit and art auction is online at www.savannahartistgroup.org  and Sun. March 13 at CHROMA GALLERY-31 Barnard St. and ThincSavannah, 35 Barnard St, Suite 301, Savannah.

When: On-Line bidding beginning Feb.28th-March 13th, 2011
Chroma Gallery Final Bidding and Reception: 3-6:30 pm
Entertainment: Solo Acoustic- Marcus Kuhlmann of the Trainwrecks Band
Food and Wine provided by members of the SCAD Art History Department

Sherran Deems is a single, vibrant, talented, and proud lady, known for her thorough and demanding color theory and drawing curriculum she teaches at the School of Foundations at the Savannah College of Art and Design. When she was first diagnosed with stage 3b cancer, she thought she could fight through her demanding treatments, but soon discovered that she was going to be needing help. And, with family members scattered across the nation, she had to rely on the closest thing she has to family in Savannah; her fellow artists and co-workers.

For more information, contact: Gena Brodie Robbins at 386-338-1735 or via email at genabrodie@me.com

In conjunction with Free Family Fun Night. The event will be in The Sandbox parking lot and the Museum. It’s a fun and FREE chance to meet area businesses, organizations, schools & community service groups involved or associated with children and families. Check out all kinds of products and services in one location.

Event admission is FREE!
Plus, many booths will have information & prizes for the kids and you can earn FREE Sandbox passes too. Plus local children’s chorus & dance groups will perform throughout the event, The Sandbox will host a raffle, kids can go on a “treasure hunt” and earn Sandbox passes, take part in arts & crafts, and go wild in our “balloon typhoon”. Anyone interested in having a booth at our Kid’s Fair, please call Anne or Caroline at 842-7645.

Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 am
An hour of fun story time followed by a craft project. Program is included with cost of admission to museum. First-come, first-serve, so sign up when checking in at front desk. Different story each week.
For more information, call 843.842.7645 or www.thesandbox.org
April 5
Story Time: “Knuffle Bunny,”
Mo Willems
Activity: Dragon Face

April 12
Story Time: “Super Duck,”
Jez Alborough
Activity: Duck

April 19
Story Time: “Harry the Dirty Dog,”
Gene Zion
Activity: Dog Face

April 26
Story Time: “The Silver Locket”
Katharine Holabird
Activity: Pasta Neclace

Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 am
An hour of fun story time followed by a craft project. Program is included with admission cost to museum. First-come, first-serve, so sign up when checking in at the registration desk.
Different story each week:
March 24, Plucked Duck
March 31, La La Rose

For more information, call 843.842.7645 or www.thesandbox.org

Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 am
An hour of fun story time followed by a craft project. Program is included with admission cost to museum. First-come, first-serve, so sign up when checking in at the registration desk.
Different story each week:
March 17, The Night Before Saint Patrick’s Day
March 24, Plucked Duck
March 31, La La Rose

For more information, call 843.842.7645 or www.thesandbox.org

Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 am
An hour of fun story time followed by a craft project. Program is included with admission cost to museum. First-come, first-serve, so sign up when checking in at the registration desk.
Different story each week:
March 10, Angels on a Pin
March 17, The Night Before Saint Patrick’s Day
March 24, Plucked Duck
March 31, La La Rose

For more information, call 843.842.7645 or www.thesandbox.org

Kayla Walsh hosts a “Tastefully Simple” food event at The Savannah Soap Co.  Tastefully Simple can really simplify your life. Their motto is “The food you love, the time you deserve” and The Savannah Soap Co.  believes you will love Tastefully Simple products. All products ask for two or less ingredients. How SIMPLE is that? The Savannah Soap Co. will a have yummy arrangement of goodies available for tasting along with recipes. The Savannah Soap Co. will offer 15% off of all of their products as well as a 20% off special for all comforters. Free teas from their gourmet tea bar will be perfect with all of the goodies from Tastefully Simple. There will also be free door prizes of Tastefully Simple Products as well as The Savannah Soap Co. products. The Savannah Soap Co is a child friendly environment.

Here is how to earn free raffle tickets:
2 tickets for RSVPing on  The Savannah Soap Co. Facebook page
5 tickets for each friend you bring
10 tickets for booking a Spring/Summer Tastefully Simple Party
10 tickets for making a Savannah Soap Co. purchase
20 tickets for starting your own Tastefully Simple Business

In addition, Kayla will also provide a Tastefully Simple Coupon to each customer who makes a purchase with The Savannah Soap Co. ($5 off their first Tastefully Simple order of $40 or more!)
More information on the Tastefully Simple brand can be found at www.tastefullysimple.com/web/kwalsh2

Start planning your getaway now with these deals from  Edgewood Travel in Savannah, a SouthernMamas sponsor.

Costa Rica has been a hot destination these past couple weeks. Edgewood Travel has had a few clients recently return and a few more set to go out over the next couple weeks. All guests enjoyed the great weather, great restaurants, the adventures. Everyone’s favorite was zip lining! There is a new beautiful condo style property in Manual Antonio- Los Altos http://www.losaltosresort.com/ . The price is right and all rooms are at least 2300 sq. feet. Perfect for a family wanting extra space. They come fully furnished with modern kitchens and have a private beach, an infinity pool and are in close proximity to all major attractions. Call Edgewood Travel today to find out more.

Recommendations from an Edgewood Clients:

From Lillian and Todd Miller- recently returned from Spain and headed to Los Altos in Costa Rica

“I have worked with other agents and I have done it all myself, booth had positives and negatives, but for a big trip I figured I would use an agent, so I called Meredith. Now, I will only use her for any trip I plan on taking. She made sure we were in the best places that fit our taste exactly. As many websites have fake reviews submitted by people who own the establishments, it was comforting to know that when I spend my money I know exactly what I am getting. She provided us with local information such as restaurants and vendors that we can trust in each country we went to. She was available for any issues or questions that may come up during the trip. Their attention to detail and the fact that they ensure the trip is planned exactly for what you want, not what they think you will like. Every little nuance that I wouldn’t have even thought about was checked and reviewed and made perfect. Meredith in particular was the most knowledgeable, friendly and attentive agent I have ever worked with.”

From Jessica Schreier and a group of 4 -recently returned from Costa Rica

“Loved, Loved both places you had us stay in. You always come through for us in regards to hotels, sightseeing, restaurants, the works! There wasn’t one tour I would have skipped and the transfers were great. We had a perfect amount of time at each place and a perfect amount of time split between adventure and relaxation. I loved the second place- I want to go back just to stay at Los Altos again! I have never experience a stay like that-it was very over the top! We got out of our elevator which opened into our condo where we each had our own bedroom and it was top of the line! Thank you again!”

Ongoing Specials

Los Altos Manual Antonio- rates starting at $250 per night including continental breakfast http://www.losaltosresort.com/index.html

Dreams Huatulco- brand new all inclusive family resort-Land only for a family of four $1599! http://www.dreamsresorts.com/drehu/

Paradisus Punta Cana or Paradisus Palma Real – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic http://www.paradisuspuntacana.travel/
Golf enthusiasts can get two rounds of golf complimentary for a 5- or 6-night stay. Book seven or more nights and get four rounds of golf complimentary. Plus, receive a $100 spa credit. Offer ends March 15th.

The Westin Paris – Paris, France http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1729
Guaranteed upgrade to a Junior suite plus up to 30% in savings

Rocco Forte – Hotel Savoy – Florence, Italy http://www.hotelsavoy.it/
The “Unforgettable Family Affair” package is tailor made for the entire family. Children’s rooms are half off and are themed for their enjoyment. Children under three eat free and children four through 12 get a 50% discount. Package is available through December 22, 2011

Disney Cruise Line http://disneycruise.disney.go.com
Fares for the Sample the Best of Europe cruise starts at $139 per day. View itinerary>>
Disney Wonder guests can enhance their 7-night Alaskan cruise vacation with the “Best of Both Escape” pre-cruise package to Vancouver and Whistler on Rocky Mountaineer’s Whistler Sea to Sky Climb. Package includes a 2-night stay at a preferred Disney Fairmont Vancouver hotel and another 2-night stay at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler.

Princess Cruises http://disneycruise.disney.go.com /
The military personnel onboard credit program is available to active military personnel plus retired and disabled military veterans. Offers up to $250 onboard credits.
Save up to $600 per couple on select 2011 Alaska cruises and cruise tours. Offer ends February 28, 2011.
BALCONY BONANZA is back! The FREE balcony upgrade is available on select Europe cruises/cruise tours, Alaska cruises/cruise tours, Caribbean & Canada/New England sailings in 2011 when you book an ocean view stateroom.

To start planning your family trip, call 912-351-0570 or email admin@edgewoodtravel.com. Visit Edgewood Travel at 105 Wheeler Court or at www.edgewoodtravel.com. Edgewood Travel is a SouthernMamas sponsor.

Park West Salon is hosting an open house and passionate for pink fundraiser for Susan G Komen. Free admission. Complimentary wine and beer. Amazing items from local merchants. Speakers and a silent auction. Guest speakers include: Dr. Joe Edwards, Dr. Chris Haberman. Participating merchants include: Satchel, Copper Penny, Anderson’s Jewelers, 24E, Royal Cinemas, Georgia Music Warehouse, SEED Eco Lounge, Patti Todd Photography, UPS.

The Savannah Children’s Choir is hosting a 5th Annual Artist in Residence gala concert.

The Savannah Children’s Choir is bringing back their first AIR, Mezzo-Soprano Rachel Waiters, their second AIR, bass/baritone Keith Miller from the Metropolitan Opera, and introducing a new AIR, tenor Darian Clonts from Morehouse University.

They’re also bringing in MusicAlive! as their ensemble in residence.

The Savannah Children’s Choir will perform in collaboration with the Savannah Arts Academy’s Chorus and Orchestra, and will be making the world premier of local composer Eric Jones’ Songs of Creation, a suite based on the poetry of 20th century African-American poet James Weldon Johnson. The program will also include selections from John Rutter’s Mass of the Children, along with solos and arias from their Artists in Residence.

CHILDREN/STUDENT TICKETS ARE ONLY $2! Tickets are available at the SCAD box office, 525-5050 or www.scadboxoffice.edu.

Doors open at 5:00, The Crist Family begin at 6:00 and The Kingsmen will perform starting at 7:30. Tickets are $10 if purchased in advance by calling the chamber or $15 at the door. Children 10 and under- $5. Food and Drink will be available for purchase. Rain or Shine. Bring your lawn chair. For Details: 843-726-8126 or visit www.JasperCountyChamber.com

The Art on the Park studio is conveniently located off Daffin Park

Messy Mornins’
June 6-10 or June 20-24 for ages 5-7
9 AM-12:30pm
Special for SouthernMamas.com readers: register before April 1 and receive $30 off the regular registration fee!!

Drawing Workshop
June 13-16 for ages 8-11
10am-12pm
Special for SouthernMamas.com readers: register before April 1 and receive $30 off the regular registration fee!!

For curriculum details and pricing CONTACT Torrey Kist, MFA at 354-5988 or tskart@yahoo.com

Tybee Beach Ecology Trips http://ceasurf.com/beachtrips.aspx is planning special trips this Saturday and Sunday (March 5 and 6) for families and small groups.  Saturday will be from 1:30 – 3:30; and Sunday will be 2-4pm.
Contact Dr. Joe for details, location and to reserve a space:  joe@ceasurf.com

Savannah Artist and art instructor Carrie Christian is hosting a Spring Art show exhibiting her young students’ art work Scribble Art Studio, 212 E. 37th St., Savannah, GA 31405.

Feel free to drop by the Spring Art Show at 6 PM Sat. March 12 to check out the type of work Carrie has her students doing. If you like what you see, you might want to consider signing your little one up for Spring Classes at Scribble Art Studio.

To sign up for any of the classes below, contact Carrie at 912-323-0123 or email carrieachristian@hotmail.com

Watercolor for Beginners
8 classes for $160
Starts: Friday, April 1, 3:00-4:30
Dates: April 1, 8, 15, 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27
ages 8 and up
This class starts with the basics of watercolor and SLOWLY moves into more advanced techniques. Students practice using watercolor as a means to explore color and shape in a dynamic way!
Cost of supplies $45, this includes high quality: Brushes (set of three), Block of Watercolor Paper, Watercolor Paints, and Palette

Drawing Class
8 classes for $160, includes all supplies
Starts: Tuesday,March 15, 6:30-8
Dates: March 15, 22, 29, April 2, 12, 19, 26, May 3
ages 10 and up
This class is a comprehensive introduction to drawing for young artists. Each week’s lesson includes a new technique or material. Landscape, still life, and figure studies will completed using pencil, charcoal, and pastel. Beneficial to those preparing for the Audition/Portfolio for Savannah Arts Academy.

Group Art Lesson
Limited Availability
8 classes for $160, includes all supplies
Starts: March 18, 4:30-5:50
Dates: March 18, 25, April 1, 8, 15, 29, May 6, 13
Ages 6-7
Drawing, Painting, and Sculpture are a few of the techniques we will be exploring! Classes kept small to ensure lots of personal attention!

Art Workshops
Scribble Art Studio now offers Art Workshops during School Holidays and Breaks!
Reserve an art workshop for your children and their friends during holidays and school breaks. Perfect for the busy family!
Art workshops run 2 hours and include painting and craft
$95 for up to 6 children
ages 5 and up

Don’t forget. Scribble Art Studio is a perfect spot to host your child’s birthday art party. Visit Scribble Art Studio on Facebook by clicking here to see photos of children’s art parties. Parties work for all ages. Cost: $150 for two hours and up to 10 guests. Party includes painting/mural/craft tailored to the theme picked by the birthday boy or girl.

To sign up for any of the above classes or book a birthday party, contact Carrie at 912-323-0123 or email carrieachristian@hotmail.com. Click here for more info. Scribble Art Studio is a sponsor of SouthernMamas.com.

The Savannah Soap Co. is hosting a fun-filled ladies gathering/private trunk show of “Jewels by Park Lane” . Connie Butsko wil bring her fabulous jewelry to the store for all to purchase at wonderful prices. Come and play “dress up” with the latest in fashion jewelry.

In addition, The Savannah Soap Co. will have a free raffle of fabulous jewelry and soaps.
Earn extra drawing tickets for a fun drawing when you…
l RSVP on The Savannah Soap Co. Facebook page = 2 tickets
l Wear a solid color top = 2 tickets
l Arrive on time = 2 tickets
l Bring a friend = 5 tickets
l Schedule your own get-together = 10 tickets

Anyone who shows up with their comforters for the event will receive 20% off their comforters with The Savannah Soap Co. wash dry and fold service. In addition, The Savannah Soap Co. will offer a 15% discount on all products at The Savannah Soap Co. store and serve their featured freshly brewed teas and refreshments. Anyone who RSVPs on The Savannah Soap Co. Facebook page will get an extra 2 free raffle tickets for the drawing. Children are always welcome. Come in and get your clothes clean and wear some fabulous jewelry to feel sparkly inside and out.

http://thesavannahsoapco.com/

Learn what it would have been like to be a member of the Eighth Air Force during World War II. A mission briefing and dinner will kick off the night. Experience the Museum at night with a unique tour by Rosie the Riveter, learn the techniques of a bombing mission, explore the Museum’s combat gallery by flashlight and relax while watching a movie before bedtime. Airmen and airwomen will be called to breakfast by an authentic bugle call!

Breakfast will be served in the Pub before learning and experiencing an activity about downed airmen in the Memorial Gardens. Participants will receive personalized dog tags at their Mission debriefing before returning home!

Reservations are required and spaces are limited in each sleepover night. Bring your sleeping bag and explore the Museum as its never been explored before! There must be at least 1 adult per 3 children

Contact Heather at 912-748-8888 or at education@mightyeighth.org for more information or to book your night at the Museum. Payment for Bunking In must be completed in full with in 10 days of the event. The Museum reserves the right to cancel any program if the minimum number of participants are not registered 30 days prior to event.

June 20-Aug. 12 2011
9 AM-3 PM Daily
Available to upcoming kindergartners through upcoming 8th graders. Discover the world of science through hands-on activities, creative crafts and wildlife investigations. Weekly camps run M-F. Tuition: $135 for each week of camp. Registration begins in March. Register early as the camps fill up quickly. www.oatlandisland.org 912.395.1212
Extended Care: All before and after care must be pre-arranged and fees must be paid at time of registration. Cancellation refunds for this service are not available.
Before Care 8am-9am …… $5.00/day, $20.00/week
After Care 3pm-5pm…… $10.00/day, $40.00/week

The Pooler Elementary School race will promote family and community involvement through exercise and fellowship. Proceeds from the event will benefit Pooler Elementary School’s academic and recreational needs. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross. Spring Fling activities and entertainment will follow the race.

Registration can be turned into Pooler Elementary, Fleet Feet Sports of Savannah or online at www.active.com . Last day for registration for race guaranteed T-shirt is March 19. Registration will continue until April 1, however a T-shirt is not guaranteed. Registration forms can be downloaded at www.sccpss.com  or www.fleetfeetsavannah.com .

Registration fees are $20 per adult participate and $15 per student (under 18) participate. All registered runners will receive a number and race t-shirt. The Family Fun Run/Walk is free for everyone.

5K awards will be given to the top male and female winners in their age divisions.

Race packets can be picked up at Fleet Feet Sports of Savannah on April 1 from 10:00 am till 6:00 pm or at Pooler Elementary School on April 2 at 8:00 am.

Parking will be available at Trinity Methodist Church located at 320 Benton Drive and First Baptist Church located at 204 Hwy. 80 W. Both churches are located within walking distance of the school. School parking lot will be reserved for event volunteers and vendors. No off street parking will be allowed during event. Pooler Police and race volunteers will be assisting with parking.

For more for information please contact Katie Gigis at Katie_gigis@yahoo.com or 912-655-3707. Information is available at Facebook: Pride of Pooler 5K.

8:30 AM Family Fun/Run
9:00 AM 5K
10:30 AM-1:00 PM Spring Fling Activities