Get organized so you can relish the holidays.

Or give the gift of organization this holiday season.

Imagine perfectly organized closets. Imagine if that spare room that’s currently so cluttered, it’s unusable, was organized, neat and spacious.

Or maybe your trouble spot is your garage, play room, pantry or home or professional office. You can reclaim whichever area of your home or office that you wish was more organized.

Neater Stuff Organizational Services can help you get it together.

With the holiday season comes the inevitable need for organizing the house and getting rid of the clutter. Enlist the support of a professional organizer to maximize and sustain results.

Or give a family member or friend the gift of organization.

Neater Stuff Organizational Services in Savannah provides quality affordable organizing services that directly support a family’s needs.

Contact owner Susan Curry Brun to inquire more; to purchase a gift certificate; or set up your free consultation today. Call 912-401-4116 or email neaterstuff1@gmail.com

With all the chaos in our daily lives especially during the holidays, a little organization goes a long way.

Discount

Mention you read about Neater Stuff Organizational Services on SouthernMamas.com & receive 10% off your total.

Neater Stuff Organizational Services, Susan Curry Brun, tel: 912-401-4116 email neaterstuff1@gmail.com On Facebook here. Neater Stuff Organizational Services is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

1. “The Journey” interactive Christmas story@ Savannah Christian Church begins Dec. 3. Wednesday-Sunday, 5-8 PM Dec. 3-7 and 10-14 @ Savannah Christian Church (Henderson Campus). Details here.

2. FREE holiday tree lighting, festivities @ Jepson Jingle, Telfair Museums’ Jepson Center, 5-7 PM Tues. Dec. 2. Details here. 

3. December Nights & Holiday Lights @ Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, Savannah. Stroller-friendly. 6-9 PM Dec. 4-7; Dec. 11-14;  Dec. 18-24. Details here. 

4. Parent & Child Holiday Clay Workshop & Fused Glass Ornament Workshop Pre-registration required. Savannah Dec. 6. Details here.

5. Savannah Ballet Theatre (the official company of Savannah Ballet School of Dance) presents ‘The Nutcracker in Savannah’ @ Lucas Theatre, matinee & evening performances, Dec. 6. Details here. 

6. FREE Savannah Lighted Christmas Parade, Dec. 6. Details here. 

7. Saturday Holiday Kids’ Art Workshops @ Blick Art Materials. Dec. 6 theme: Handmade Dolls.  For ages 6 & older. Details here. 

8. Sailing with Santa (photos with Santa & one-hour narrated, sightseeing Savannah Riverboat Cruise) Sat. Dec. 6; Sat. Dec. 13. Boards at 1:30PM; Sails from 2-3PM. Details here.

9. (Pooler) Holiday Workshop, Scribble Art Studio, 4:30-6:30 PM, Dec. 6. Details here. 

10. FREE Christmas for Kids Celebration, Savannah’s City Market, Dec. 6. Details here. 

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

View Savannah-area upcoming events related to the 150th Anniversary of the American Civil War, particularly the 150th anniversary this December of General Sherman’s 1864 March to the Sea & the Union occupation of Savannah.

*“Savannah in the Civil War,” A Film by Michael Jordan
6 p.m. December 11 @ Jepson Center, 207 W. York St., on Telfair Square Savannah
Local filmmaker/historian Michael Jordan’s 90-minute film highlights events and people who played a role in Savannah’s Civil War story. More than a dozen historians discuss forces that shaped Savannah’s war years, and thirty local actors portray important Savannahians of the time. Characters include Suzie King Taylor, the only African-American woman to keep a journal during the war, and Francis Bartow, who suggested gray as the Confederate military uniform color. Learn about the massive prisoner-of-war camp in that housed thousands of Union prisoners in Forsyth Park, the dramatic battle between ironcal warships in Ossabaw Sound and other key events.

After the screening, Jordan will participate in Q&A discussion. The movie is 90 minutes long and free for Telfair members or $12 for non-members. Watch a short clip from the film online at www.civilwar-savannah.com.

Details here. 

________________________________

*Georgia Historical Society Commemorates Sherman’s March to the Sea with new historical marker
1-2 PM Dec. 11
Join the Georgia Historical Society and the Georgia Battlefields Association as they dedicate a new historical marker commemorating the 150th anniversary of General William T. Sherman’s March to the Sea. The dedication will consist of a brief program to unveil the new historical marker and discuss Sherman’s historic march in the context of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War in Georgia.
Madison Square, Savannah 31401
912-651-2125

___________________________________

*150th Winter Muster – Civil War Enactment

Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill: This is the site where Sherman ended his “March to the Sea” in December of 1864. Planned commemorations will mark the Capture of Fort McAllister Dec. 13 2014.

Saturday, Dec 13, 2014 9 AM-4 PM with the battle at 5 PM
Come on the actual date — 150 years since General Sherman ordered his troops to take Ft. McAllister. Watch as historians 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 5pm. 912-727-2339. Details here. 

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.

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

________________________________________________

FREE Civil War Medicine event, Savannah, Dec. 17

Join the Savannah Chatham County Public School System at Massie Heritage Center in downtown Savannah at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17 for Civil War Medicine in Savannah, a program devoted toward medical procedures and practices of the Antebellum Era. The guest presenter will be Talley Kirkland, Interpretive Ranger at Fort McAllister State Historic Park. The program will include guided tours of the facility from 5-6 p.m. before the main presentation begins and there is no fee for admission. For more information, search “Massie” at www.eventbrite.com or call (912) 395-5070.

_________________________________________________

*Civil War Demonstrations @ Old Fort Jackson, Savannah 
This December 2014 marks the 150th anniversary of the evacuation of Fort Jackson. Several days before December 20, 1864, General William Hardee arrived to take command of Savannah’s defenses. He refused General Sherman’s demand to surrender and ordered the evacuation of the city and all surrounding defenses. To commemorate this event Old Fort Jackson will offer engaging programs throughout the weekend of December 20th and 21st. Details here. 

Celebrate the Holidays @ Skidaway Is. State Park.

Luminary Night is a special time.  With family-centered activities, as well as a magical walk in the maritime forest, this is an event you’ll want to add to your holiday traditions.

Luminary Night with Santa @ Skidaway Is. State Park

Saturday, Dec 13, 2014 6-8 PM
Bring your children and pets for pictures with Santa. Enjoy a walk along our enchanted luminary trail and take a hayride around the park. Sip on hot chocolate while decorating cookies and making holiday crafts.
$5 per picture, hayrides $2.
$5 parking. 912-598-2300.

FREE KIDS NATURE EVENTS WEDNESDAYS-SUNDAYS IN DECEMBER

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays in December including free  Toddler Time for kids ages 2-4 and their caregivers at 10 AM Thursdays. Bring your child to enjoy stories, games and learning designed just for them. Each week there will be a different nature based theme.

Other free kids’ programs happening in December 2014 include Holiday Movie Night showing of Home Alone on Dec. 20; Venomous Snake Safety and ID programs; Wilderness Survival; & more.

For the complete list of FREE kids’ nature events happening during December at Skidaway Island State Park, click here. 

First Day Avian Loop Hike @ Skidaway Is. State Park

Thursday, Jan 1, 2015 1 PM
Enjoy an afternoon hike through the marsh. This guided hike will discuss the history of Skidaway Island, marsh plants and local animals.
$5 parking. 912-598-2300.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

The Independent Learning Network, Inc. in Savannah is seeking home-based learners, ages 14-19, to participate in a student-led planning committee to host an event with Author Ernest J. Gaines.

Ernest J. Gaines is the author of the following:
A Lesson Before Dying
A Gathering of Old Men
In My Father’s House
A Long Day in November
The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman
Bloodline
Of Love & Dust
Catherine Carmier

Application Forms are due Friday, December 5, 2014. For more information and to submit application form email
academics@iln-ga.org or call 912-355-7557

The Independent Learning Network, Inc. (ILN) in Savannah is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to the academic excellence of home-based and other non-conventional learners.

ILN offers individualized educational plans for homeschoolers – academic levels 3-12, tutoring, monthly field trips and summer programs.

The ILN resource center is located at 7160 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Suite #101. Hours are by appointment.

Independent Learning Network, 7160 Hodgson Memorial Dr., Suite 101, 912-355-7557, www.iln-ga.org On Facebookhere. Savannah Independent Learning Network is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas will be performed by the Academy of Dance in Savannah at the Trustees Theater Dec. 13 2014 at 6PM.

Tickets will be on sale at the box office for $25 Adults, $20 Senior, Students, Military, and $15 for children 12 and younger.

Trustees Theater is at 216 E Broughton St. Savannah, 31401

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

Kindermusik with 88 Keys Piano in Savannah announces its December play dates:

December’s musical monthly play date will be offered twice this month:
Tuesday, December 16 at 10am and Saturday, December 20 at 10am. Play dates are open to children 0-7 years.

This month’s theme is “This is My Dance”. Cost is $15 (siblings are only $5.00).
Each participant will receive an instrument/prop, 10 Kindermusik songs and a bonus gift at the end of class.
Also, in December, if you attend the first playdate, admission to the second play date is free (materials given out once)!!!
Come enjoy double delights in December with Kindermusik!

To enroll online, visit www.88keysga.com & click on the Kindermusik link or call 912.988.KEYS (5397).

Kindermusik…A Good Beginning Never Ends.”

Kindermusik Savannah, email music@88keysga.com, 912.988.KEYS (5397), www.88keysga.com then click on Kindermusik link. Kindermusik is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

FOR MORE PARENT & ME ACTIVITIES IN SAVANNAH & HILTON HEAD IS. , CLICK HERE. 

Kids get sick on their own schedule, not yours.

So Memorial Health University Physicians – Family Medicine Center is offering special walk-in hours just for infants and children up to age 17, no appointment necessary.

Family medicine physicians are available Monday through Thursday from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. to treat colds and flu, strep throat, ear infections, and other illnesses. Stop by for fast, convenient medical care.

When is it best to keep your sick child home from school? Donna Prill, M.D., a family medicine physician at the Family Medicine Center gives parents some important tips in this video:

The Family Medicine Center is conveniently located at 1107 East 66^th St., one block south of Memorial University Medical Center.

Appointments for immunizations, school and sports physicals, chronic disease management and other healthcare needs are available by calling 912-350-8404.

Memorial University Medical Center is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

Fit4Mom Savannah is having specials for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday!

Gift certificates available too!

Black Friday– Free registration with purchased plan or pass for new members
Small Business Saturday– 25% off 10 class pass
Cyber Monday- Buy 2 months of membership, get 1 month free for new members

Fit4Mom Savannah will honor these deals Friday through Monday
All deals can be purchased on Fit4Mom Savannah website here.
For questions, please contact Erin Hanna at erinhanna@fit4mom.com or 843-368-1863

FIT4MOM is the country’s largest fitness program for moms offering pre and post-natal fitness classes for every stage of motherhood. Come join in for a great workout for all fitness levels and meet some new friends! Bring a yoga mat or towel and water and meet the group.

The Fit4Mom Savannah group works out at the Savannah Mall Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, Daffin Park Tuesday and Thursday, and Hull Park (at 55th St. and Atlantic St.) on Saturday. All classes are from 9:30 til 10:30 am, and your first class is FREE!

Stroller Strides® is a stroller-based fitness program designed for moms with little ones. Each 60-minute, total body workout incorporates power walking, strength, toning, songs and activities. Certified fitness instructors are specially trained in pre and post-natal fitness and offer a variety of fun class formats both indoors and outdoors. All locations also offer a free playgroup with Our Village so moms can form lasting friendships with other moms through organized playdates, moms’ nights out, and activities for the whole family.

Fit4Mom in Savanah, Weekday class locations @ Savannah Mall & Daffin Park,  savannah.fit4mom.com, 843.368.1863 , email ErinHanna@Fit4Mom.com. Fit4Mom is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

Join Snow White for Enchant My Party’s FIRST EVER enchanted baking event at Cake It Away Bakery on Whitemarsh Island on Sat. December 20 2014.

Enjoy storytelling, sing-a-long, games, cupcake decorating and a special gift for each child from Snow White.

For children 3 & older
Tickets are $18 per child

Session 1: 10am-11am
Session 2: Noon-1pm
Session 3: 2pm-3pm

Each session is limited to a dozen children so organizers encourage purchasing tickets early before they sell out.

Cake It Away is at 4700 US HWY 80 E, Suite E, Savannah, Georgia 31410 near Wiley’s BBQ

Learn more here. 

About Enchant My Party

This Baking with Snow White event is organized by Enchant My Party in Savannah , a children’s princess party business that sends costumed-princesses to homes or party spots to entertain at your child’s regal birthday party with storytelling; singing & dancing; crafts & games.

“Like” Enchant My Party on Facebook here.

Enchant My Party, www.enchantmyparty.com, Savannah, Ga.  912.713.1253, email enchantmyparty@gmail.com 
Enchant My Party is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Here’s a great way for your little chess players to meet other Savannah chess players and improve their game:

USCF (United States Chess Federation) Rated K – 12 Chess Tournament
Dec. 6th at Bethesda Academy
9520 Ferguson Ave. Savannah.

Organized by ClubCheckmate – a Savannah chess club.

Entry Fee: $15 on site/ Must preregister

Trophies awarded to top 3 in each section (Elementary, Middle, High school)

Must have valid USCF (United States Chess Federation) membership. Becoming a member is easy. Click here to do so.

Contact Skyler Kelly @ 912-604-1741 or Skyler@ClubCheckmate.com to preregister for the Dec. 6 Savannah tournament.

Registration cap – 49

ROUND TIMES
Sign in/fee payment 9 – 9:45 A.M.
Round 1: 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Round 2: 11:25 AM – 12:25 PM
Lunch: 12:25 PM – 1:15PM
Round 3: 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
Round 4: 2:25 PM – 3:25 PM
Round 5: 3:35 PM – 4:35 PM
Awards Ceremony: 4:45

Learn more about the Savannah chess club: Club Checkmate by clicking here.   

Join Kindermusik in Savannah for brand new December themes starting Monday, December 1st!

For babies 0’s and 1’s: Mondays at 9:20AM for “Old MacDonald!”.
Tune up Baby’s listening ears, because we’re off to the farm. With a heehaw here, and a cock a doodle there, this unit is packed with fun, animal-themed activities that emphasize focus, listening discrimination, and cognition.

For toddlers 2’s and 3’s: Mondays at 10:15AM for “Silly All Over!”.
While enjoying giggles, tickles, songs and games, your toddlers will also experience developmentally appropriate activities such as stop and go, up and down, use their fine motor skills, and of course, enjoy the joy and laughter of music.

NEW for the month of December: a class for 4’s and 5’s: Monday afternoons at 3:50PM
December’s theme is “All Keyed Up!” There is magic to be found in those 88 keys. Together we’ll explore staccato and legato through instrument play, movement and musical notation. Join Kindermusik & explore the world of keyboard instruments.

____________________________________

Kindermusik December Playdate for ages 0-7

The monthly musical playdate for December includes a double delight: the December playdate, “This is my Dance!”, will be offered TWICE.
Choose between either Tuesday, December 16 at 10AM or Saturday, December 20 at 10AM
If you attend the first playdate, admission for the second playdate is FREE* Playdates are open to children ages 0-7 and all participants receive an instrument/prop, 10 Kindermusik songs and a BONUS gift at the end of class.
Tuition is $15;siblings are only $5

Online enrollment is available now at www.88keysga.com and spaces are limited, so sign up today and experience the magic of Kindermusik with your child in December! Kindermusik …where a good beginning never ends.
* admission to second play date is free; materials are only given out once.

Visit www.88keysga.com & click on the Kindermusik link or call 912.988.KEYS (5397).

Kindermusik…A Good Beginning Never Ends.”

Kindermusik Savannah, email music@88keysga.com, 912.988.KEYS (5397), www.88keysga.com then click on Kindermusik link. Kindermusik is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

FOR MORE PARENT & ME ACTIVITIES IN SAVANNAH & HILTON HEAD IS. , CLICK HERE. 

Bring the kids to Old Fort Jackson in Savannah on Sat. Dec. 20th & 21st for a special demonstration and participation.

This December marks the 150th anniversary of the evacuation of Fort Jackson. Several days before December 20, 1864 General William Hardee arrived to take command of Savannah’s defenses. He refused General Sherman’s demand to surrender and ordered the evacuation of the city and all surrounding defenses. To commemorate this event Old Fort Jackson will offer engaging programs throughout the weekend of December 20th and 21st.

On Saturday, December 20th, join members of the 22nd Georgia Heavy Artillery as they prepare to follow General Hardee’s orders to render the fort useless to the Union Army and evacuate.

On Sunday, December 21st learn about the conditions of the fort and discover what happened during the Union Occupation. Get to know the 55th Massachusetts, an African American unit that that fought in a number of battles in the south and were the last Federal Troops ever to be stationed at the fort.

Throughout the weekend experience the life of the soldiers at Fort Jackson during the last days of the Civil War.

Activities both days begin at 10 am and will include musket demonstrations, cannon drill and firing, marching, and other activities that soldiers participated in while at Fort Jackson.

Where
Old Fort Jackson
1 Fort Jackson Road
Savannah, GA 31404
912.232.3945

Sat. Dec. 20-Sun. Dec. 21 2014

For hours & admission costs, click here.

Coastal Heritage Society manages Old Fort Jackson, a historic fort located on the Savannah River three miles east of downtown Savannah, www.chsgeorgia.org/, Coastal Heritage Society is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Enjoy 275,000 sparkling lights on this self-guided tour through Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens @ 2 Canebrake Road, Savannah on select evenings between Thanksgiving Friday and Christmas Eve.

At 2014 December Nights & Holiday Lights, view white reindeer among green-glistening timber bamboo, the Orchid House roof aglow in red and green light, a Nativity scene with a deep blue background, blue Stars of David, white trumpeting angels in a bed of champagne gold lights, green and white lights around an illuminated fountain in the Rose Garden, glowing willow trees in the Mediterranean Garden, giant red poinsettias, and a candy-inspired children’s experience in the Cottage Garden.

Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen offers a chance to purchase hot drinks and holiday goodies. Spirited music fills the air, sometimes with roaming live carolers.

Live music events

Live music events, ranging from brass choirs to classical string and modern ensembles are anticipated for this special annual event that has grown every year. Indoor musical performances will take place in the new Visitors Center.

December Nights & Holiday Lights 2014

Eighteen select evenings from the day after Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve:

Nov. 28 – 30 (Friday – Sunday)
Dec. 4 – 7 (Thursday – Sunday)
Dec. 11 – 14 (Thursday – Sunday)
Dec. 18 – 24 (Thursday – Wednesday)

6 to 9 pm

$5 per person
Infants (ages 2 and under) FREE
Cash or Credit Card accepted

December Nights & Holiday Lights encompasses at least ten acres around the historic core of farm buildings and gardens.

The Holiday Lights experience is stroller and wheelchair friendly. Please, no pets during this special event.

More details here. 

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, www.coastalgeorgiabg.org, 2 Canebrake Road Savannah, Ga. 31419, (912) 921-5460 e-mail: coastal@uga.edu, On Facebook here. Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

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

“Savannah in the Civil War,” A Film by Michael Jordan, Dec. 11

6 p.m. December 11 @ Jepson Center, 207 W. York St., on Telfair Square Savannah
Local filmmaker/historian Michael Jordan’s 90-minute film highlights events and people who played a role in Savannah’s Civil War story. More than a dozen historians discuss forces that shaped Savannah’s war years, and thirty local actors portray important Savannahians of the time. Characters include Suzie King Taylor, the only African-American woman to keep a journal during the war, and Francis Bartow, who suggested gray as the Confederate military uniform color. Learn about the massive prisoner-of-war camp in that housed thousands of Union prisoners in Forsyth Park, the dramatic battle between ironcal warships in Ossabaw Sound and other key events.

After the screening, Jordan will participate in Q&A discussion. The movie is 90 minutes long and free for Telfair members or $12 for non-members.

Watch a short clip from the film online at www.civilwar-savannah.com.

Jepson Center, 207 W. York St. on Telfair Square, 912.790.8800, www.telfair.org, Telfair Museums is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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

Winter Reading Program
Dec. 1 to 31
All Live Oak Public Libraries branches
Ages 0 to 18
Children and teens are invited to participate in this year’s Winter Reading Program at Live Oak Public Libraries.

To get started reading for prizes this winter break, stop by any Live Oak Public Libraries branch to sign up and pick up your Winter Reading Record.

Each time you read a total of three hours, return your reading record to the library for prize (while supplies last) plus an entry form to win one of the Grand Prizes, a 7” tablet. All entry forms for the Grand Prize must be submitted by Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014, to qualify. Grand Prize drawings will be held the first week of January.

Learn more here.

(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.