’It’s a Wonderful Life’ in Stewart’s hometown

’It’s a Wonderful Life’ in Stewart’s hometown

INDIANA, Pa. — If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie “It’s a Wonderful Life,” consider a visit to the hometown of Jimmy Stewart, who starred in the film as George Bailey.

Indiana, Pa., 55 miles east of Pittsburgh, has a Jimmy Stewart Boulevard, a Jimmy Stewart Museum, a Jimmy Stewart statue outside the courthouse and even a local airport named for him.

The museum is hosting matinees of “It’s a Wonderful Life” every Saturday and Sunday through Jan. 3 at 2 p.m. For more information, the museum can be reached at (724) 349-6112.

Other holiday events include a Festival of Lights at Blue Spruce Park, with 80 light displays on a drive-through course around the lake. The lights are on Thursday through January, and a trolley is available from downtown to the park to see the spectacle.

For more information on visiting Indiana, go to www.visitindianacountypa.org/.

Roller coaster moving

GURNEE, Ill. — Weeks after Kiddieland Amusement Park closed in suburban Chicago, Six Flags Great America has bought its famed wooden roller coaster — The Little Dipper.

Spokeswoman Brooke Gabbert says Six Flags paid $33,000 for the roller coaster that had been at Kiddieland since 1950.

Gabbert says the plan is to dismantle the figure-eight track, ship it to Gurnee and have it up and running next year.

The roller coaster will still be called The Little Dipper as it joins 13 other roller coasters at Six Flags Great America.

Associated Press

Airport opens dog park

ATLANTA — Furry travelers now have a place to stretch their legs at Atlanta’s airport.

A new fenced-in dog park is part of the ground transportation center on the west end of the passenger terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

The 1,000-square-foot park, which opened Nov. 18, can accommodate two pooches at a time and features flowers, grass, rocks, benches and two original pieces of art.

Biodegradable pet waste bags are also available there.

Christmas in Newport’s grand historic mansions

NEWPORT, R.I. — The historic mansions of Newport are hosting tours to show off Christmas trees, wreaths, floral decorations, period-style ornaments and windows illuminated with white candles.

Holiday tours will be held daily through Jan. 3 (except for Christmas Day) at The Breakers, The Elms and Marble House, sponsored by The Preservation Society of Newport County.

A Winter Passport ticket for daytime admission to all three houses is $28 ($9 for children 6-17) and can be purchased at www.NewportMansions.org, or at each property.

Check the Web site for other holiday events.