I have scripts that I downloaded for the G11 (Ltng1-MDFB-080914.bas and mint.lua) will these continue to work for the G12, or I do I need to find new G12 scripts?
Depends on the script. Some scripts refer to propcases (
http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/PropertyCase ) by number, and in some cases these numbers are different between camera models. G11 is propset 3, g12 is propset 4. Many propcases are the same in these two, so there may not be a problem.
There may be other features or issues unique to the ports, these are for you to discover either by running into them yourself or reading the experiences of other users with these cameras

Also, I am trying to run scripts...however, when I got into ALT mode, press the Set button, I get the Script Menu, then I select Load script from File...(i use the set button again to select this menu option). When I do this, it starts the default script, takes a picture and then somewhat gets stuck.
I don't understand. The set button should not start a script, it just loads it. The currently loaded script will be shown when you are in alt mode, but it isn't running. To run the script, you must press the shutter button. You can press the shutter again to interrupt the script.
Lastly (for this post
) what is the white bar on the bottom of my screen (when in CHDK mode) that goes 1/2 way across from left to right?
It's the free space bar, one of CHDKs many redundant free space displays

Can be turned off in the OSD settings.