Oct. 30--November is a knockin', and regional artists are preparing for the holiday season with convenient, fun shopping.

--Twenty-five area artists will sell their work at a shop set up at Jefferson Pointe, open Sunday through Dec. 23. This is the second year for the Artworks Holiday Art Gallery, located next to Barnes & Noble bookstore. The gallery will sell paintings, photography, jewelry, clothes, pottery and more. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-5 Sundays.

--For the 10th year in a row, 14 potters will get together to present various works in clay. Just a Bunch of Potters will begin with an opening reception 6-9 p.m. Nov. 6 at North Pointe Woods Clubhouse on Riveroak Drive, which is off North Clinton Street between Washington Center and Dupont roads. Shopping also is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 7-8.

Sample holiday fare at Fresh Market

Fresh Market is hosting a "Taste of the Holidays" sampling event noon-6 p.m. Nov. 6 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 7. Check out smoked salmon, standing rib roast, pies, eggnog and more.

If you're just not into cooking, or cooking an entire holiday meal, Fresh Market sells two complete meals or an a la carte menu.

The traditional menu includes a turkey, stuffing, whipped potatoes, gravy, cranberry relish and rolls, serves six to eight and costs $79.99. For the deluxe version, which serves eight to 10, add a petite spiral ham, corn souffle and green beans amandine for a total cost of $129.99. Pick up an order form at the store, 6306 W. Jefferson Blvd., or print one from the Web site, www.freshmarket.com. The Fresh Market suggests ordering in early November.

Holiday cards from Easter Seals Arc

Easter Seals Arc and local artist Julia Meek have collaborated again for the 24th annual Portraits of Pride.

This year's offering, "Past Memories Build Future Dreams," has been printed on holiday cards and sweat shirts and is being sold by Easter Seals Arc, with proceeds benefiting the organization's programs.

The new artwork portrays Santa and his reindeer flying above the old Wolf & Dessauer department store.

Cards, prints and shirts can be ordered by calling 456-4534, Ext. 264, or online at www.eastersealsarcnein.org. They're also available at Anne's Hallmark stores, Riegel's Pipe & Tobacco at Georgetown, Creative framing on North Anthony Boulevard, Umber's Do it Best Hardware in Waynedale and Easter Seals Arc at 4919 Coldwater Road.

Why buy new clothes for kids?

A children's used clothing store has opened at 6427 Bluffton Road in Waynedale.