Holiday Gift Guide 11-28-2013

Holiday

Gift Guide Thursday, November 28, 2013 An Advertising Supplement to the

Gwinnett Daily Post gwinnettdailypost.com

www.gwinnettdailypost.com • Thursday, November 28, 2013 • GIFT GUIDE • 3

Holiday Gift Guide Setting the Chocolate Standard for Freshness and Quality Peterbrooke Chocolatier, Inc. was founded in 1983 in a quaint historical neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida known as San Marco. Its visionary, Phyllis Geiger, named her business after her children Peter and Brooke. Phyllis has translated her European training of making fine chocolates into a truly American experience.

Like fine artists, Peterbrooke Chocolatier creates its mouth watering masterpieces by skillfully blending special milk, dark and white chocolate molded, enrobed and handdipped. Lusciously enrobed creamy fondant centers, cordial cherries, buttery toffee and hand made truffles. Fresh picked strawberries that are hand-dipped daily. Over the years, Peterbrooke Chocolatier has achieved incredible popularity and loyalty among its customers because of its creativity, service and unwavering dedication to using only the highest standards for quality and freshness in its ingredients Each store changes its decor reflecting the seasons and holidays. Explosions of

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colorful gift bags, beautifully wrapped boxes of chocolates, bountiful baskets, as well as a warm and friendly smile greets each customer as they visit. Stop by our shop at the Forum and see how we are sharing happiness through extraordinary chocolate experiences.

A Chocolate for All Seasons & Occasions!

We can help make your occasion memorable with personalized chocolate from Peterbroooke. For more details and ideas, give us a call today at (770) 817-8118. We’d love to hear from you.

Chocolate Fountains - Impress your guests with a delicious chocolate fountain.

Small and Large Fountains are available.

Strawberry Trees - People will not believe their eyes when they see our gorgeous towering strawberry tree.

We only use the freshest berries and dip them in our decadent chocolate. Milk, White, Dark or mixed available.

Party Platters - Be the hit of the next

party with a custom Peterbrooke Platter.

Choose your Peterbrooke favorites to create your own tasty platter.

Chocolate Dipped Wine Bottles - Bring us your favorite wine or champagne and we will dip your bottle in chocolate. Nothing goes together better than wine and chocolate for romance.

Just added ... coffee including fresh brewed, lattes, frozen drinks, more.

Corporate Gifts and Group Events are Available.

The Forum Shopping Center, 5135 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 930 Norcross, GA 30092 (770) 817-8118

Find Us on Facebook facebook.com/peterbrookeatlanta

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Tips for families dining out for Guide the holidays Holiday Gift

Sugarloaf Mills – Atlanta’s largest outlet & value retail shopping destination

If you love to shop and to find great deals, Sugarloaf Mills brings together more than 180 outlet and value retail stores with unbeatable deals on today’s popular fashions, electronics, home accessories and more. This holiday season Atlanta’s largest outlet and value retail shopping destination will once again be a favorite one-stop shop for all of your gift-giving needs.

Local residents and area visitors alike will appreciate Sugarloaf Mills exciting roster of popular stores offering up to 70% off of everyday prices, including Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Forever 21, Guess Factory Store, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Kenneth Cole Company Store, Gymboree Outlet, Old Navy Outlet, LEGO Brand Retail Store and The Disney Store Outlet. Plus, the fun continues with a variety of family-friendly entertainment venues and full-service dining options, which include Atlanta’s largest Dave & Buster’s location, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, AMC 18-Screen Theatre, Slingshot Speedway, Lunar Golf, AirSport In-

door Sports Facility and Black Diamond Skatepark.

To get a jump start on holiday shopping, Sugarloaf Mills is inviting bargain-savvy shoppers to its Midnight Opening on Black Friday, providing 22 consecutive hours of unbeatable savings and promotions. More great holiday shopping continues as Sugarloaf Mills presents it’s Wrap-It-Up Holiday Super Sale from December 13 through 15. In addition, the festivities throughout the holiday season will include pictures with Santa, pet photo night, holiday entertainment, gift wrapping, Cookies with Santa and more. Sugarloaf Mills is located at the junction of I-85 and Sugarloaf Parkway, just 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta. Regular hours are 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information on Sugarloaf Mills, please call (678) 847-5000 or visit www.ShopSugarloafMills.com. Sugarloaf Mills also may be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SugarloafMills and on Twitter @SugarloafMills.

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Dining out for the holidays is a tradition for many families. Dining out has many advantages, including no cleanup once the meal is over and a more varied menu that provides guests more choices than the standard holiday fare.

But dining out for the holidays does require some work, even if none of that work involves scrubbing dirty dishes or finding extra seats for guests. When planning a holiday dinner at a restaurant, consider the following tips.

Do your homework. A favorite restaurant might be tops on your list, but do some comparison shopping before settling on a restaurant. Prices can vary greatly when it comes to private parties, and some might not even be capable of accommodating the kind of large party that might accompany you for a holiday dinner.

Choose a restaurant that’s accessible to everyone.

Guests can stay overnight when a holiday dinner is at a relative’s house. However, guests will almost certainly be driving home after a holiday dinner at a restaurant. Make everyone’s post-meal commute home as easy as possible by choosing a centrally located restaurant that’s equidistant from everyone’s home.

Inquire about a restaurant’s pricing flexibility.

There might be room for negotiation regarding the menu, including choices on the food and beverages being offered,

but you’ll never know if you don’t ask. Traditional holiday fare will likely be available, but discuss alternatives to such menu items, including if there is anything for vegetarians or if there is a gluten-free meal option.

Sign a contract if your party will be especially large. Contracts can ensure that especially large dinner parties don’t go awry. This may require a deposit in advance of the holiday, but the contract should spell out the menu, including food and beverages that will be offered, and the final price of the meal.

Be an early bird. If the responsibility of planning or hosting the dinner has fallen on your shoulders, then get to the restaurant before your guests.

Don’t forget invitations. Treat the holiday dinner like you might treat a wedding reception or a birthday party, inviting guests several weeks in advance so everyone has time to plan their trip.

Indulge responsibly: When it comes to drinking alcohol, start with a calorie-free, nonalcoholic beverage. Satisfy your thirst before having an alcoholic drink. Moderate alcohol consumption is defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks for men. If you plan to drink, keep your holidays merry for everyone by designating a driver who won’t be drinking.

Have A Medieval Holiday!

MEDIEVAL TIMES DINNER & TOURNAMENT’s spectacular display of jousting knights, prancing horses, and spirited nobles whirls diners into the holiday season in royal fashion. Pose for photos with Santa of the 11th century during pre-show on Sunday evenings, write a scroll to Santa, shop for authentic, Spanish-made swords and suits of armor, sip a hot toddy from the castle tavern, or simply enjoy holiday décor and merriment fit for a king.

The Castle’s blessings are plentiful this year, so Medieval Times, Georgia has opted to give back this holiday season.

The Castle has forged an alliance with Toys for Tots, with collection bins for new, unwrapped toys available during mall hours. His Majesty, King Carlos, encourages residents of the

realm to pay a visit to the Sugarloaf Mills location to donate a toy, which will be provided to a needy child in North Georgia.

In the spirit of giving back, each Medieval Times guest who donates a toy to Toys for Tots upon arrival at the Castle for the show will receive a FREE Souvenir Upgrade, including a cheering banner, commemorative program, and one behindthe-scenes DVD per party. Excluding 11:00 am matinees and the New Year’s Eve Extravaganza, the Souvenir Upgrade with donation is valid for all December shows.

Reservations may be made by calling 1-888-WEJOUST (935-6878) or visiting MEDIEVALTIMES.COM. This holiday season, enjoy a not-so silent KNIGHT at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament!

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OPEN 8PM THANKSGIVING DAY

Gwinnett Place Mall Presents Holiday Kick-Off Event Gwinnett Place Mall, recently purchased by MoonBeam Capital Investments, LLC, in Duluth is proud to present it’s first annual Holiday Kick-Off Event on Black Friday, November 29th, 2013. The mall, home to Sears, JC Penny, Macy’s and many other national retailers will open at 8:00PM Thanksgiving night and will stay open through Black Friday.

Features and activities at the event include: • 6:00AM door buster at the food court. A $20 gift card for the first 100 customers at the set up booth for one of our mall stores including but not limited to American Eagle, Victoria Secret, Bath and Body Works, Abercrombie and Fitch, Express, Aeropostale, Forever 22 and many more.

• Radio personality Johnny-O with Q100 live broadcast from 8:30-10:30am will give away concert tickets, gift cards, prizes and more, downstairs at center court by Santa.

• Register before 2:00PM for a chance to win gift baskets, Nutcracker tickets, Children’s Museum passes, Fox Theatre event tickets, Gladiator tickets and more. Drawings will be held at 12:00pm and 2:00pm in the Food Court.

• Along with the Holiday Kick-Off Event, Gwinnett Place Mall wants to reward you for shopping Black Friday through Christmas Eve. Spend $100 at the mall in a single day and bring your receipts to the mall office to receive a mystery bag with a gift card worth up to $100.00 from one of the mall stores. While supplies last.

Limit one per shopper. Mall office hours are MondayFriday 8:00am-5:00pm.

Please join us on November 29th for many deals, prizes and fun. Gwinnett Place Mall is the perfect shopping destination on Black Friday.

For leasing information, call 770-813-6840.

Join us on Black Friday (11/29) for fun, prizes and more!

Visit the mall booth in the food court: 6AM - 1st 100 adult shoppers receive $20 gift card 8:30AM - Johnny-O from Q-100 NOON & 2PM More giveaways at mall booth

Complete details at Plus, spend $100 in the mall on the ShopGwinnettMall.com same day and redeem your receipts for a gift card valued up to ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS!

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www.ShopGwinnettMall.com • 770-813-6840 www.gwinnettdailypost.com • Thursday, November 28, 2013 • GIFT GUIDE • 7

Holiday Gift Guide Global Winter Wonderland Launches the Holiday Season in Atlanta

Tickets Now on Sale for Event Anticipated to Become New Annual Family Tradition ATLANTA, GA (November 21, 2013) - Global Winter Wonderland, a spectacular lantern festival and multicultural theme park, will be making its Atlanta debut this holiday season, now through January 5, 2014 at Turner Field.

This holiday season, guests will be able to travel the world in one visit while viewing the larger-than-life lantern designs of landmarks from countries all over the globe.

Tickets for Global Winter Wonderland are on sale now and available for purchase at www.globalwonderland.com or by calling 770.723.3862. Tickets are $24.99 for adults, $18.99 for seniors, and $16.99 for children. Season passes are also available at $43 for adults, $31 for seniors, and $28 for children.

Prices are inclusive of all the rides and live entertainment.

Children 4 and under are admitted free. Global Winter Wonderland will be open daily from 5pm-11pm.

Global Winter Wonderland features giant illuminated lanterns depicting creatures and scenes that include a Christmas holiday village, animals real and imagined, and people and scenes from around the world. Highlights include recreations of some of the world’s greatest architectural achievements, including the Taj Mahal, the Eiffel Tower, Chichen Itza, and the Golden Gate Bridge. The eco-friendly lanterns, some of which tower more than 50 feet high and span nearly 100 feet wide, are illuminated with low voltage LEDs and fluorescent lights, and several structures are powered by solar panels. The family event of the holiday season also features numerous carnival rides and games, international cuisine, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and

celebrations of holiday traditions and various cultures from around the world.

Global Winter Wonderland will celebrate Atlanta’s diverse population with a series of cultural themed days, scheduled for each Sunday in December.

Guests are invited to enjoy the music, cuisine, fashions and culture of Latino, Asian, African and African American, European and Caribbean cultures this holiday season on the following days: • December 1 - “Latin Fiesta” - A Celebration of Latin Culture • December 8 - “Asian Heritage Festival” - A Celebration of Asian Culture • December 15 - “Black Family Celebration” - A Celebration of African and African American Culture • December 22 - “Europa Extravaganza” - A Celebration of European Culture • December 29 - “Caribbean Carnival” - A Celebration of Caribbean Culture “We are excited to announce these special nights to highlight Atlanta’s Latin, Asian, African, European and Caribbean cultures,î said John Lin, President of IGO Group. ìIn planning Global Winter Wonderland, our desire has been to deliver a truly universal event for all the people in Atlanta and we feel that putting the spotlight on various cultures through dedicated nights is a great way to fulfill that goal.”

Global Winter Wonderland in Atlanta is presented

by IGO Group and produced by the International Culture Exchange Group (ICEG). The event made its US debut in 2011 in Santa Clara, California, with over half a million guests in attendance in 2011 and 2012.

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Holiday Gift Guide At Wages and Sons, our family is always here for you.

Whether you are struggling with grief this holiday season, need to make immediate arrangements or want to plan ahead, we encourage you to call us any time for support and guidance.

May your holidays be filled with peace, hope and love.

Sincerely, The Wages Family Bill Jr., Nan, Susan, Jeffrey & Melba Wages Locally, family owned and operated by the Wages Family, Wages and Sons Funeral Homes and Crematories has served the metro Atlanta, Georgia area for more than 40 years. It is an honor to serve the families of the community and carry on the traditions of our founder Billy

Happy Holidays, from our family to yours!

Wages, Sr. At Wages and Sons, we take great pride in helping families create a meaningful tribute to celebrate the unique life of their loved ones.

Our expertise in serving a diverse group of nationalities, cultures and beliefs comes from a love for our community and years of experience with a variety of different rites and rituals. With two well-appointed facilities, a professional, friendly staff, personalized, in-house services and competitive pricing, Wages & Sons will leave you with no regrets.

We invite you to join us for one of our healing Holiday Memorial Services. See our ad below for details.

Bring warmth to local Veterans with our Sweaters for Veterans program and support overseas military members with our Stockings for Soldiers program.

See our ad below to learn more.

Tips on Dealing with Grief During the Holiday Season AtWages and Sons, we realize the holidays are a particularly difficult time for anyone who’s lost a loved one. Here are some grief support tips to help you deal with this difficult time: Express Your Grief – The number one way you can ease your burden during this difficult time is to discuss your feelings of grief with others. This is an easy first step to recovery. Do not lock away your feelings – they will only grow.

Know Your Limits – You will naturally feel“down”both physically and emotionally during this time.

Don’t feel obligated to get back to your normal routine. Learn to say no when you need more time.

Rely on Fond Memories – The holidays are certain to bring memories of your loved one rushing back to you. Some will make you happy, others will make you sad. It’s not only okay but necessary to experience both of these emotions.

Lean on Your Spirituality – If you consider yourself faithful or spiritual, the holidays are probably a significant time for you. Lean on the comfort of your spirituality and use this time to reflect and grow.

Our Chaplain Dr. Lamar Holley is always available to talk. If you are struggling with grief this holiday season, don’t hesitate to call us with questions or concerns. Gwinnett Chapel - (770) 277-4550 or Stone Mountain Chapel - (770) 469-9811.

Your Friends at Wages & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematories

November 12th through December 5th Help us share the holiday spirit with veterans serving overseas away from their family and loved ones.

We will supply the stockings but are asking for stocking stuffer items to be donated by members of the community to fill them. Call us today or visit our website for a list of items needed.

Donate new or old sweaters and we will deliver them to veterans in local nursing homes and the community.

Drop off sweaters at either of our locations lIisted below.

Brighten a veterans’ day!

Join us to remember and honor a loved one. Evening includes memorial candle-lighting, beautiful music, light refreshments and more. RSVP by Dec. 3rd and receive a personalized crystal snowflake.

Gwinnett Chapel

Dec. 5th, 7:00pm 1031 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lawrenceville (770) 277-4550 161938-1

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Stone Mountain Chapel

December 8th, 3:00pm 1040 Main Street, Stone Mountain (770) 469-9811

PBR returns to the Peach State

World’s top bull riders and fiercest bulls to compete at Gwinnett Center Jan. 18-19

After taking a two-year hiatus, the Gwinnett Center welcomes the Professional Bull Riders back to Duluth, Ga. on Jan. 18-19 with the Duluth Invitational, part of the 2014 Built Ford Tough Series.

In 2011, Georgia PBR fans watched former Cincinnati Bengals star football player Chad Ochocinco accept the challenge to ride a PBR bull. Although Ochocinco was unsuccessful at reaching the 8-second mark, the fans were able to see the Top 35 bull riders in the world in a head-tohead battle with the best bucking bulls in the sport.

These elite athletes are coming back and will provide more than two hours of non-stop action. Exhilarating rides and heart-stopping wrecks will bring fans to the edge of their seats as they watch the PBR’s courageous cowboys risk it all against their 2,000-pound opponents.

During this two-day event, bull riding action will begin at 7:50 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 19. Tickets start at $15 and are on sale now at www.gwinnettcenter.com, The Arena Box office and by calling 1-888-9-AXS-TIX. Six former PBR World Champions are scheduled to ride in Duluth, including 2011 Duluth event champion and 2013 World Champion J.B. Mauney Silvano Alves (2012, 2011), Renato Nunes, (2010), Kody Lostroh (2009), Guilherme Marchi (2008) and Mike Lee (2004).

Georgia native Sean Willingham, fan favorites Shane Proctor and Douglas Duncan, along with young guns Chase Outlaw and Jory Markiss, are in the lineup, as well.

All Top 35 bull riders will ride one bull each in Rounds 1 and 2 on Saturday and Sunday. After Round 2 on Sunday afternoon, the riders’ individual two-round scores will be totaled and the Top 10-15 riders on two bulls will advance to the Built Ford Tough Championship Round for one more ride and a chance at the $30,000 event title.

The Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR) is the world’s premier bull riding organization. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the founding of the PBR. In just two decades, the dream of 20 bull riders has become a global sports phenomenon that reaches more than half a billion households in 50 nations and territories worldwide. Its primetime programming, produced by 34-time EmmyÆ Award winner and Peabody Award winner David Neal, airs domestically on CBS and CBS Sports Network. More than 2.5 million fans attend live events each year. The PBR has awarded over $120 million in prize money and 25 riders have earned over $1 million, including Justin McBride with $5.5 million – the most of any western-sports athlete in history. For more information on the PBR, go to PBR.com, or follow on Facebook at Facebook.com/PBR, Twitter at Twitter.com/PBR

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Holiday Gift Guide Amy Grant & Vince Gill featured at the Fox with Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

When the holiday season comes around, music superstars Amy Grant and Vince Gill will light The Fox Theatre with cheer and goodwill when they perform their beloved holiday show featuring the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra on Monday, December 16th at 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $39 and are available for purchase now at www.foxtheatre.org, by calling 855285-8499 or at the Fox Theatre Ticket Office.

“Christmas audiences are special,” explains Grant.

“They tend to involve the whole family, and their emotions are a wonderful mix of anticipation and reverence. It’s a thrilling experience for both of us.” “These holiday shows have become our favorites,” Gill agrees. In their two hour program, the Grammy-winning husband-and-wife team will present cherished standards and newer seasonal fare as well as some of their biggest hits.

This special offer courtesy of Gwinnett Daily Post

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Sat. DEC 14 7:00 PM · Sun. DEC 15 11:00 AM, 2:00 & 5:00 PM Buy tickets at disneyjuniorlive.com Retail locations, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre or call 1-800-745-3000. Groups of 10 or more call (770) 578-5125 Regular Ticket Prices: $20 · $30 · $40 · $60 VIP · $80 Front Row Additional fees may apply.

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Holiday Gift Guide Keeping the magic of Santa alive for the youngsters He had a broad face and a little round belly that shook when he laughed like a bowl full of jelly. He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf. And I laughed when I saw him in spite of myself. - “A Visit From St. Nicholas” Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without Santa Claus. Santa will forever be ingrained in the holiday season, serving as an endearing symbol of the season regardless of your religious affiliation.

Parents typically go to great lengths to ensure their children enjoy the holiday season. By keeping the magic of Santa alive, parents can add a special touch to the holiday season for their youngsters. Children may become more skeptical of Santa around the time they turn 10, but there are plenty of ways to encourage this spirit to live on year after year.

Read an uplifting story. The holidays are ripe with stories that tug at the heartstrings. Parents can take their children to the library and rent a Christmas tale or take home a book of holiday stories, reading a different one before bed each night. Encourage children to write their own positive stories of what the holidays mean to them and read them aloud to family and friends.

101 Ways to Keep the Spirit of Santa Alive: For

“Kids” From 1 to 92” by John Hagerman is a great way to get everyone in the house enthusiastic about Santa.

Keep the magic flowing. Children who believe in Santa for an extra year or two often come from families that keep the magic of Santa alive. In addition to the standard traditions of leaving cookies and milk out for the jolly old man, come up with new ways to evoke the essence of Santa. Spray peppermint air freshener around the tree and other places Santa is sure to visit. Use a large boot to make a footprint in a plush rug.

Find a way to trigger noise on the roof to give kids the impression that Mr. Claus himself has arrived. Extra measures to keep Santa alive can help everyone enjoy the holiday that much more.

Take advantage of opportunities to spend time with Santa. Parents and children alike have many opportunities to spend time with Santa during the holiday season, including photo opportunities at the mall and personalized videos sent directly to youngsters’ email accounts. Elf dolls and breakfast with Santa at a nearby restaurant are other opportunities to spread the magic.

Make the most of these opportunities over the course of the holiday season.

Spread some Christmas cheer. Santa’s job is to

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bring presents to the world’s children. Channel the notion that giving is better than receiving and spend time giving back to others as a family. Schedule a day when you can distribute gifts at a senior center or arrange to bring gifts to a foster child. Bake cookies and deliver cel-

lophane-wrapped dishes to all of your neighbors. These activities put the emphasis on giving.

Keeping the tradition of Santa Claus alive can help adults and children alike enjoy a more festive holiday season.

Dos and don’ts of holiday shopping Thanks to sales featuring heavily discounted items, millions of people wait to start their holiday shopping until the season hits full swing. But in spite of such bargains, overextending budgets during the holiday season is too tempting for many shoppers to resist. However, shoppers need not risk financial peril if they shop smartly and heed some dos and don’ts of holiday shopping.

Do set a budget. Establish what you can afford to spend on gifts and other seasonal trimmings early on.

The National Retail Federation estimates that the average consumer will spend around $700 come the holiday season. But not every person needs to be a big spender.

The “buy now, pay later” mentality that credit cards offer lands many shoppers in trouble, a sticky situation many only notice once the first bill comes due. If you cannot afford to pay your entire credit card balance off once the bill arrives, you face steep interest charges that can quickly add up. Instead, pick a set spending limit and keep to it no matter how tempting it may seem to overspend with a credit card.

Don’t be fooled by false sales. Retailers understand that a good advertised deal lures shoppers into their stores. As a result, some retailers mark up the cost of certain items in order to slash the prices for holiday sales.

Even if you are saving the assumed 50 to 60 percent, the final cost of the item still may be higher than normal.

Comparison shop and do your research so you don’t fall victim to clever pricing.

Do schedule time for shopping. Hectic schedules sometimes result in last-minute shopping that leads to impulse purchases. Schedule some distraction-free time for your holiday shopping so you’re less likely to rush into purchases before thinking them through.

Don’t double buy. Some shoppers use the holidays as an excuse to buy more for themselves than the people on their lists. While it’s tempting to treat yourself come the holiday season, this is a great and quick way to deplete your budget. If you plan on using holiday deals to supplement your own wardrobe or household needs, reduce your spending the rest of the year and save money for year-end purchases.

Do collect coupons and look for purchasing incentives. Comparison shopping not only helps you get the best price, but also it can shed light on coupons, shipping discounts and other incentives that lower the overall cost of products. Search online for Web sites that publish coupons and codes for online discounts, including free shipping. Join a store’s marketing list and receive emails with deals sent directly to your inbox.

Don’t be afraid to delay some purchases if need be. If hosting a post-holiday gathering where gifts will be exchanged, it’s perfectly acceptable to delay buying those gifts until after Christmas or Chanukah, when many items can be found at even lower prices. Many stores reduce prices on merchandise come December 26, so you can wait until after the holidays to shop for items that will be exchanged with distant friends and relatives. This enables you to save more money and use any received gift cards toward shopping.

Do keep a level head. Some people forget the true meaning of the season is spending time with loved ones.

Getting swept away by shopping and worrying about deadlines can make the season less enjoyable. Don’t allow the stress of holiday shopping to compromise an otherwise joyous time of year.

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Holiday Gift Guide Gwinnett Center Has A New And Improved Website www.gwinnettcenter.com reimagined with new desktop and mobile website design to complement new ticketing system Gwinnett Center launched a new website in October ... have you seen it? Guests visiting www.gwinnettcenter.com will experience a completely new website, and users will find it easier to navigate and visually stimulating.

Enhancements to Gwinnett Center’s website include the following: • Clean user interface

• Improved online presence on both desktop & mobile websites • Easier navigation for users to find event information • Eye-catching imagery • Easier purchase flow • Ability to search for upcoming events by venue • Stay connected to the latest news • Increased video content • Mobile website In March, Gwinnett Center changed ticketing systems to a company called AXS Ticketing. This change allows customers to purchase their tickets online at www.gwinnettcenter. com. Guests can still buy tickets at The Arena box office or by calling 1-888-9-AXS-TIX. DEAL ALERT! In the spirit of the season, Gwinnett Center will offer Cyber-Monday promotional discounts to multiple upcoming events. These deals will go live at www.gwinnettcenter.com/ cyber-monday-2013 on CyberMonday, December 2. Don’t miss the best entertainment deals around town for you and your family!

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Andrea Bocelli Coming To Philips Arena December 15 Andrea Bocelli will return to the U.S. for a select run of concerts in December 2013 stopping in Atlanta at Philips Arena on December 15. As is now tradition, Andrea Bocelli’s holiday timed US tours receive ‘rousing ovations’ year after year. Bocelli’s tours continue to be among the most praised in the touring season; as the Tampa Bay Times put it, “It’s not often you can hear a crowd’s collective breath being taken away. But it happened, again and again,” making this December tour the perfect welcome to the Holiday season.

The December 2013 Tour comes in support of Andrea Bocelli’s recent release Passione which debuted at #2 on the overall Billboard Charts, along with a brand new PBS television special “Love in Portofino” which promises to be the highlight of the PBS March pledge season. Passione is a lush collection of Mediterranean love songs featuring duets with global pop stars Jennifer Lopez, Nelly Furtado, and the late Edith Piaf. The album reunites Bocelli with 16-time Grammy Award-winning producer David Foster, who produced Bocelli’s 2006 release Amore, which sold more than 4.2 million copies.

With over 70 million record sales, Bocelli also earned a place in the Guiness Book of World Records by occupying the first, second and third place on the American classical music charts. Celine Dion famously commented on Bocelli’s talent saying, “If God would have

a singing voice, He would sound a lot like Andrea Bocelli.” Bocelli’s name is also frequently found heading the list of artists appearing at events like this year’s National Prayer Breakfast, and at concerts to support causes such as aid for the earthquake victims of the Abruzzo, alongside stars such as Angela Gheorghiu and in evocative venues like the Colosseum in Rome.

Andrea Bocelli will be joined by conductor Eugene Kohn, soprano Svetla Vassileva, and world-renowned guest artist Heather Headley for an unforgettable evening.

Andrea Bocelli continually receives rave reviews throughout his sold-out U.S. tours as an artist showing confidence and mastery in both classical and pop worlds. “His tone was smooth and brimmed with emotion – he owned Madison Square Garden,” celebrated the New York Post. The Sun Sentinel concurred stating, “Bocelli’s singing moves people He brought suave phrasing and affecting emotion to an arrangement of Italian songs.” The Hollywood Reporter rejoiced, “It was a triumphant appearance.”

With one of the most recognizable voices in music, Andrea Bocelli is a global icon who continues to defy categorization bringing his music to millions world-wide.

Tickets are available online at www.ticketmaster.com, charge by phone (800) 745-3000, and at the Philips Arena Box Office.

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Did you know?

Christmas Day has become a big day in the movie business. Many studios now release big-budget films on December 25th, and audiences have recently flocked to the theaters to see some of their favorite stars in films that opened on Christmas Day or shortly before. According to Box Office Mojo, an online movie publication and box office reporting service, no film has fared better on Christmas Day than “Sherlock Holmes,” which premiered on December 25, 2009, earning just under $25 million in its initial day onscreen. “Avatar,” the 2009 James Cameron film that would go on to gross $760 million in domestic receipts alone, holds the distinction of earning the second most money on Christmas Day, when it earned a little more than $23 million despite having already been out in the theaters one full week. The 2004 Ben Stiller film “Meet the Fockers” opened three days before Christmas but still managed to earn $19.5 million on

Christmas Day. A pair of 2012 films, the latest big screenadaptation of “Les Miserables” ($18 million) and Quentin Tarantino’s “Django Unchained” ($15 million), round out the top five highest grossing films on Christmas Day. Numerous films are slated to open on December 25, 2013, including Stiller’s “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” and “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit,” starring Chris Pine and Kevin Costner.

Receive a

FREE ‘BIG’

Sipping Chocolate or Coffee with the purchase of $10 or more.

Good at participating stores only.

Not valid with any other offer or discount We offer corporate gifts, gift baskets, gelato, hand-dipped chocolate treats and now coffee!

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PETERBROOKE CHOCOLATIER - THE FORUM 5135 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 930 Norcross, GA 30092 (The old Caribou Coffee)

770-817-8118

Your neighborhood chocolatier!

Offer valid through 11/29/13 - 12/1/13

Hours: Fri. & Sat. 8:00 am - 10:00 pm Sun. 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm

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Jack’s Creek

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM & NURSERY

Green Giant • Virginia Pine Leyland Cypress • Cedars Fresh Cut Fraser Firs • Arizona Cypress

Think it’s too far to visit Jack’s Creek Farm?

5 Off Any Christmas Tree $

Show proof that you live 30+ miles away and receive $5 off any Christmas Tree!

Good for 1 tree per family, per visit.

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*Must bring coupon with you to receive discount.

HOLIDAY HOURS November 23 - December 21, 2012 9:00a.m. -5:30p.m. • 7 Days A Week!

2291 Price Mill Road, Bostwick, Georgia 30623 www.jackscreekfarm.com • 706.343.1855

Call For Dates And Times For Santa Claus! www.gwinnettdailypost.com • Thursday, November 28, 2013 • GIFT GUIDE • 15

Holiday Gift Guide Give the gift of the G-Braves this holiday season!

G-Braves Launch 2013 Holiday Packs Four, eight and 12-game packs make perfect gifts for fans of all ages

Gwinnett Braves Holiday Packs are back for 2013.

The club has announced the return of the popular fourgame, eight-game and 12-game packs, each the perfect gift of spring and summer excitement for family, friends and coworkers. Holiday Packs are on sale now at the Coolray Field Box Office, by phone at (678) 277-0340 and online at gwinnettbraves.com/holiday.

Four-game Holiday Packs, starting at $28, contain four Anytime Tickets to be used at any 2014 Gwinnett Braves home game. Use all four tickets for one game, one ticket for four separate games, or anywhere in between.

The eight and 12-game packs work the same way, but also include bonus incentives. Those who purchase an eight-game pack will receive a piece of Gwinnett Braves

merchandise, while quantities last. Those who purchase a 12-game pack will receive two Gwinnett Braves hats, plus four passes to be on the field for G-Braves’ batting practice at a preselected date in 2014. Each date will also include a tour of Coolray Field. Eight-game packs start at $56, while 12-game packs start at $84.

Holiday Packs can be purchased in three different seating options, including Infield Box, Field Box and Baseline Box. All three options are on sale through December 20, or while supplies last. Call the Coolray Field Box Office at (678) 277-0340 or visit gwinnettbraves.com/holiday for more information.

The Gwinnett Braves will begin the 2014 season on Thursday, April 3 at Durham. The G-Braves’ home opener at Coolray Field will take place on Friday, April 11 against the Durham Bulls. Season tickets for the 2014 campaign are on sale now by calling the Coolray Field Box Office at (678) 2770340. For more information on 2014 season ticket packages, visit gwinnettbraves.com/2014.

16 • GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 28, 2013 • www.gwinnettdailypost.com

A Christmas Carol at the Alliance Theatre November 29 - December 29 Treat your family to a magical Christmas tradition and pre-show choir performances for only $149* including tax

celebrate Atlanta’s finest actors in the dazzling 24th Alliance Theatre staging of Charles Dickens’s classic Christmas tale and Ebenezer Scrooge’s eye-opening Christmas Eve journey. Plus, you won’t want to miss Chris Kayser’s final season as Scrooge! Family Four packs are available on select performances and include four tickets, parking, a family photo and

and fees. Family Night tickets can be purchased by visiting or calling the Woodruff Arts Center Box Office at 404.733.5000 with promo code FAMILY. Learn more at www.alliancetheatre.org/christmas. *Cannot be combined with other offers and not valid on previously purchased tickets. Subject to availability.

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Holiday Gift Guide

Celebrate the holidays with Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation!

December 7, 9:00 a.m.– noon Holiday Breakfast Kick off your holiday season with breakfast, jolly old elf, fun crafts, sharing your wish list and getting pictures with your favorite man in the red suit ~ Santa Claus himself!

Breakfast will be served until 10:30a.m. or while supplies last! Age 3-up; $5/person; must pre-register by 12/2. Call 678.277.0860. Lucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center, 4651 Britt Rd, Norcross.

December 7 and 14, 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Breakfast with Santa Come and enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa Claus in the beautifully decorated Superior Court Ballroom.

Kids will enjoy sing-a-long songs, crafts, and a keepsake photo, too! All ages, $11/person (infants up to 12 months are free with a paid adult).

Seating is limited, must pre-register call 770.822.5450. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

December 7, 10:00 a.m. – noon Pet Pics with Santa Bring your pets to visit with Santa and receive a keepsake photo. $7/photo, must pre-register by 12/2, call 678.277.0850. Dacula Park Activity Building, 2735 Old Auburn Ave, Dacula.

December 7 and 21, various times and locations Dance with the Sugar Plum Fairy Learn the story of the Nutcracker, learn ballet, make a keepsake ornament, have a snack and more

fun age-specific activities! Pre-register by 12/2; $10/age 3-5 and $15/age 6-10, call 678.277.0850 for Bogan Park Community Recreation Center, 2723 North Bogan Rd, Buford. Call 678.277.0890 for Rhodes Jordan Park Community Recreation Center, 100 East Crogan St, Lawrenceville.

December 7, 8, 14, 15, 19 and 20 – various times – Visits with Santa A family tradition returns! Children will be able to visit with Santa and make holiday crafts in the Elf Workshop. Elf Workshop tickets are $1 for two crafts. Visits with Santa are $5/child or family and include one photo in a keepsake card. Parents are welcome to take additional photos during paid visits. Call 770.822.5450 for more information. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

December 12, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Seniors, Annual Christmas Tea Jingle your bells and celebrate the season at our annual Christmas tea. There will be festive treats, music, and fellowship for all to enjoy. $5/person, must preregister by 12/5, call 678.277.0190.

Prime Timers Pointe at George Pierce Park, 55 Buford Hwy, Suwanee.

December 13, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Elf on a Shelf Dinner Get your photo in a keepsake card with the Big Elf himself. Kids will enjoy the hot cocoa bar, crafts, story time and sing-a-long songs. All ages $12/ person (infants up to 12 months are free with a paid adult). Seating is limited, must preregister, call 770.822.5450. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 West

Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

December 14, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Parent’s Shopping Day Drop the kids and their friends for an afternoon of fun while you finish your secret shopping! Kids will enjoy pizza, crafts, and games. Age 6-12, $25/child; must pre-register by 12/6. Call 678.277.0850. Bogan Park Community Recreation Center, 2723 North Bogan Road, Buford.

December 14, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Polar Express Party Kids will enjoy a fun hot chocolate bar, story time, crafts, games, a movie, and more while waiting for Santa’s arrival!

Age 3-13, $6/child (parents must attend with child); must pre-register.

Call 678.277.0890. Rhodes Jordan Park Community Recreation Center, 100 East Crogan St, Lawrenceville.

December 21, 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Cookies for Santa Make sure Santa enjoys his stop at your house with some special cookies decorated by you! Enjoy a special story time, too! Age 4-up, $5/child (parents are free), must pre-register by 12/14. call 678.277.0910. George Pierce Park, 55 Buford Hwy, Suwanee.

Looking for that last-minute gift?

Give the gift of play with a Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation gift certificate. It’s the perfect gift for holidays, birthdays, graduations, retirements or any gift-giving occasion!

For more information on gift certificates or to register for our activities, please visit gwinnettparks. com or call 770.822.8840.

18 • GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 28, 2013 • www.gwinnettdailypost.com

Give the Gift of Golf!

Pavin

Langer

Watson

Lehman

April 14–20, 2014 TPC Sugarloaf

Need the perfect gift for the golfer in your life?

Look no further than tickets to the Greater Gwinnett Championship Presented by Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating, an official event on the PGA TOUR’s Champions Tour. Taking place April 14-20 at the prestigious TPC Sugarloaf, some of the greatest names in golf will once again compete for a $1.8 million purse while supporting local charities. Golfers expected to participate include legends and Hall of Famers such as defending champion and two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer, 2013 Charles Schwab Cup champion Kenny Perry, Fred Funk, John Cook, Tom Lehman, Mark O’Meara, Tom Kite and many others.

You don’t have to be a golf enthusiast to enjoy the Greater Gwinnett Championship. This week long event offers something for everyone. There will be activities for the kids on Saturday that include games, face painting, photo opportunities with area mascots, and much more! All week, children 16 and under receive free grounds admission with a ticketed adult.

Looking for the ultimate gift for your favorite golfer?

The State Bank Pro-Am on Wednesday and Thursday lets amateurs tee it up with the professionals, making memories that will last a lifetime. This experience includes tickets to the tournament, a premium Nike gift package, an autographed picture with their professional and first-class hospitality on day of participation.

Spectators and sponsors of the Greater Gwinnett Championship will be able to watch their favorite golfers up close and personal all while giving back to the community. As a not-for-profit event, the real winners of the tournament are the benefitting charities. Recipients of the 2014 tournament include Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia Gwinnett College Foundation, and Gwinnett Medical Center Foundation.

For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.greatergwinnettchampionship.com. It is a good time for a great cause!

Tickets start at $20!

2-FOR-1 WEEKLY BADGES NOW ON SALE FOR $55!

Weekly Badges are good for grounds admission Wednesday - Sunday of tournament week. Visit GreaterGwinnettChampionship.com/buy-tickets to purchase.

Offer valid through January 3rd, 2014.

GreaterGwinnettChampionship.com

770-232-7872

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Staying local when gift buying has its benefits The average adult must shop for gifts for friends or family members several times over the course of a typical year. Birthdays, holidays and anniversaries are often the driving force behind such excursions, but some people will buy a gift for a loved one even if there is no special occasion attached.

When buying gifts for those we love, many consumers hope to find something unique. But unique items can be hard to find at the local shopping mall, where national chain stores tend to dominate. That reality highlights just one of the many benefits of shopping locally.

Local merchants tend to have more unique merchandise. A national chain store on one side of the country is not much different from its counterpart on the opposite coast. The stores’ layouts are likely identical and so is their inventory. Unlike such corporate giants, local merchants aren’t mass-producing their items, and chances are the items sold by local merchants are oneof-a-kind. Such items make for more unique gifts that recipients might find more thoughtful than an item they can find at larger chain stores.

Local merchants often provide more satisfying customer service. Larger chains tend to rely on automated systems to handle many of their

customer service calls. Some consumers may never even speak to a real person when they call a customer service line, while others may first have to answer several automated questions before finally being connected to a real person. Local merchants tend to handle their own customer service, and consumers who have a concern or question about a product often speak directly with the store’s owner. That sense of direct connection gives consumers some peace of mind and can make them more comfortable when making their purchases.

Local merchants tend to be more knowledgeable about their products. Large chain stores might have many employees working on the floor or behind the registers, but those employees are not always experts on the products being sold throughout the store. Local merchants tend to have less inventory and fewer employees, who often know a great deal about the products on the shelves. Some employees might even have developed the products being sold, and that knowledge can be put to use when uncertain shoppers are looking for the perfect gift for their loved ones.

Local merchants are more accessible. Arguably the biggest benefit of shopping locally for gifts is the proximity to home. Consumers who buy products from

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merchants within their community won’t have to travel home, making a shopping trip even more accessible. far to do their shopping, nor will they need to gas up the Consumers often find shopping local when buying car if the item needs to be returned or exchanged. Some gifts for family and friends is a great way to obtain more local merchants may even be within walking distance of satisfying and reliable customer service.

50 Years … Same Mission … and now a new name for R.T. Patterson: Advantage Funeral Home and Cremation Services Over fifty years ago when R.T. Patterson started in the funeral business, it was a simpler time, neighbors knew neighbors, many of the local roads were still dirt, and your local funeral home was one of the main stays in the community.

Back in those days, local funeral homes used their hearses as an ambulance service for Gwinnett County, which was common for funeral directors to do then until Mr. Patterson donated the first ambulance to the county’s first ambulance service.

Now travel forward to a new generation and a new name on our funeral home, Advantage Funeral Home & Cremation Service. As in the days of Mr. Patterson, our namesake, we still offer traditional services, cremations, pre-need counseling and ship outs, but most of all we still care for our families in a tradition as Mr. Patterson would have wanted.

The manager, Charlotte Owens is third

generation of a family that has worked for Mr. Patterson and is proud that the staff still is providing compassion and care to our families in need, and our Gwinnett families and surrounding areas. Even though we are under our new name of “Advantage”, there is over fifty five years of experience in this building. We do have two gentlemen from Venezuela, Javier Perez and Leonel Villanueva, who work with all of Hispanic families, so when we say we have a bilingual staff we really mean it. Please “call or come by” to meet our staff, Mark Ritter, Shane Burton, Javier Perez, Leonel Villanueva and Charlotte Owens, we are still at 500 Harbins Road, in Lilburn. We are still that old fashion funeral home you remember, friends to our community and always here when you need us.

For more information, visit our website: advantagefunerals.com/location/ Lilburn.

Still the same Compassionate, Caring Staff

Advantage Funeral Home Formally RT Patterson Funeral Home

We offer Traditional Services, Cremations, Ship Outs and Pre Needs Counseling

500 Harbins Road Lilburn, GA 30047 · 770-923-2940

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Pictured are Shane Burton, Mark Ritter, Javier Perez, Charlotte Owens, and Leonel Villanueva

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Ring in the Holiday Season at Mall of Georgia Mall of Georgia • 3333 Buford Dr. 678-482-8788 / Facebook / Twitter

Come Early. Stay Late.

After the family feast, join us for family fun!

The season of good times and great shopping begins at 8:00 PM on Thanksgiving Day. Friday, November 29: Close at 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, November 30: 8:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.

Sunday, December 1: 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

The first 250 customers to register at Guest Services November 28-29 will receive a special holiday ornament.

Photos with Santa: November 9 – December 24.

Visit Santa at his holiday home in the lower level Nordstrom Court.† Santa will be available daily, with the exception of Thanksgiving Day; hours and photo package pricing available at www.mallofgeorgia.com.

Pet Photos with Santa: November 17 from 6:30 8:00 p.m. and December 8 from 7:30 -9:00 p.m. Shoppers can bring in their furry friends (excluding exotic animals) to pose with the big man in red for a classic holiday photo.

Family pets must be in a carrier or on a leash.

Caring Santa: December 8. Caring Santa is an opportunity for children with special needs and their families to experience a holiday tradition in an extraordinary way. The event is held from 8:00-10:00 a.m., prior to mall opening so accommodations can be made to support the sensory,

physical and other developmental needs of all guests.

Simon Kidgits Club Breakfast with Santa: December 7. From 8:30-10:00 a.m. in the Food Court, attendees can enjoy holiday crafts, breakfast and personal time with Santa himself! Free breakfast for Simon Kidgits Club Members, while supplies last.

Breakfast for non-members costs $5, which includes an annual Simon Kidgits Club membership.

Space is limited, RSVP by email: mmr4852@ simon.com or call 678-482-2365.

The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program: November 22 – December 14 on the lower level near jcpenney and Naartjie. For more information, visit www. salvationarmytreeusa.org.

United Hospice Foundation Tree of Memories: November 29 – December 24. Located on the Upper Level near Coach.

Sounds of the Season: December 5, 6 and 13. Enjoy live holiday music performances by talented area groups including school, church and community choirs from across the metro area from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. in the Food Court.

Find a list of performances along with dates and times at www.mallofgeorgia.com.

‘Tis the Season of Giving Charity Tabling: December 2 – 8. ‘Tis the season to give back to local nonprofit organizations in the Gwinnett area. Tables will be located along the upper level between jcpenney and Macy’s.

Gift Wrapping: November 29 – December 24 in the jcpenney court.

ATLANTA: This holiday season, Mall of Georgia will deck the halls with plenty of holiday cheer and entertainment by offering a variety of special holiday events for the entire family. www.gwinnettdailypost.com • Thursday, November 28, 2013 • GIFT GUIDE • 23

HOLIDAY AT

After the family feast, join us for family fun!

The season of good times and great shopping begins at 8:00 PM ON THANKSGIVING DAY.

APPLE · COACH · H&M · J.CREW · MICHAEL KORS · PANDORA · POTTERY BARN Individual store hours may vary.

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24 • GIFT GUIDE • Thursday, November 28, 2013 • www.gwinnettdailypost.com