The Spartanburg County chapter of the Salvation Army is taking applications now for parents needing help in getting new toys and clothes for their kids for Christmas.

Toys “R” Us announces a program to help consumers with their big Christmas gifts.  The program is called the “Big Gift” layaway is available at all Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us stores nationwide.

Spartanburg Christmas Parade will be held Tuesday, December 8, 2009 in downtown Spartanburg, SC.  The parade will commence at 6:30 PM.

Many of us have Christmas adventures, and I had a few during Christmas 2008 that I’d like to share with you.

My wife and I decided to take in as many Christmas events (lights, etc.) as we could this holiday.

Our first trip was to the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, and it was a great choice.  The lights scattered in the trees were beautiful, as was the giant wreath on the silo next to the barn-shaped building that is the actual library.  We also took the library tour.  The BGL is a peaceful, inspiring place to visit; you come away with new appreciation of the lifetime of work Billy Graham has performed in the name of God.

Beginning the day after Christmas, trees may be dropped off to the parking lot for Field # 6 at Jackson Park.  Christmas tree vendors are encouraged to bring leftover trees to the site.  Trees will be chipped on January 10.  No balled trees or wreaths or greenery with wire will be accepted.

The North American Aerospace Defense Command is in charge of the annual Christmas mission to keep children informed of Santa’s worldwide journey.

If you have the money, the savings could be significant as you shop for gifts on Christmas Eve.

More than 100 flights have been canceled at O’Hare International Airport, a day after a snowstorm brought the cancellation of more than 500 flights at the Chicago hub. Highway travel has also been hindered by snow and ice storms.

People could be seen waiting 10 to 15 minutes just to find parking at area malls and stores

These charities are working with their communities to help make Christmas a special occassion for some needy families this year.

It is the first decline in Christmas holiday travel in the Carolinas since 2002.

Through the Carton of Caring program, children are offered a chance to buy a Learning Curve dollhouse for themselves and then fill the box with toys and clothes to give to the less fortunate.

All Post Offices nationwide will be open Christmas Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 24, but most will shorten retail lobby hours and close at noon. Regular mail delivery for Dec. 24 will be unaffected by the change.

“Operation GO! Ministries” is planning a Christmas dinner and toy giveaway for the needy of the Upstate. 

A google mashup shows light displays in the Upstate.