Here's some things I learned in Huntsville this week:

• Want to keep track of Santa this year? Annual Santa Claus tracker from NORAD, which uses four high-tech systems: satellites, radar, Santa cams, and jet fighter aircraft, to track Santa during his Christmas Eve travels. Or check Santa's current location on Santa Tracker with links to North Pole weather, a naughty or nice checker, and info on each of Santa's reindeer.
• The Huntsville Museum of Art presents the Backers of Bacchus Dinner and Live Auction with an introduction to Vinho Verde followed by a seated, gourmet, Portuguese-themed dinner paired with exceptional Portuguese wines followed by a Port. This event will provide the opportunity to try new and interesting grape varietals from beautiful Mediterranean viticulture. January 16, 2010 with Reception- 6:30; Dinner- 7:30 and Auction- 8:15. For more information, please call (256) 535-4350, ext. 208.
• Did you get a new camera for Christmas? Then you might be interested in this: Robert Schuffert will present a photography class Wednesday night, January 27, 2010 at 6:30 pm. at Trinity United Methodist Church Read more...

The holiday is almost upon us, but there's still things to do in the Huntsville area. If you have out of town guests, be sure and take them to the Galaxy of Lights and Santa's Village (tonight's the last night). Also go see Holiday Science Trees at Sci-Quest and the Christmas exhibit at Burritt on the Mountain. Details on the Holiday Calendar. Have a Merry Christmas!

Czar is the featured "Dog of the Week" for Huntsville Animal Services. Czar is a one year old purebred Chow. He has the typical Chow personality and gets along well with other dogs and with children. This little guy is hoping you'll want to take him home and put him under your Chirstmas tree. Stop by the shelter on Triana Blvd. soon to meet him.
Baby is the Madison Animal Rescue Foundation's "Cat of the Week." Baby is a sweet 6 month old brown tabby kitten who's looking for a home for Christmas. Baby is easygoing and playful. He is not shy and loves other animals and people. Baby has been neutered and has all his shots. This is the perfect little furball for any home. Check him out today.

In the latest Huntsville/Madison County Health Dept. report, only one of the 63 places inspected failed to pass. One restaurant got a perfect score of 100. Some of the eating establishments receiving an inspection were New China Dragon, Waffle House, Jersey Mike's Subs, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Jason's Deli, Big Spring Cafe, Logan's Roadhouse, Shogun's Japanese Steakhouse, Steak-Out, Chili's Grill & Bar, Finnegan's Pub, Kalous Corner Market, plus more. Read the full report.