Christmas

OGDEN —“You are invited to have some fun with an online Advent calendar at ogdenucc.org/advent-calendar,” states a news release from Congregational United Church of Christ in Ogden.

Every day starting today through Dec. 24, the church’s online Advent calendar will feature a new door available to “open.” Inside, visitors will find Scripture readings and reflections, nostalgic videos, versions of seasonal music that people might not find on the radio, craft ideas, facts about Christmas traditions around the world, suggestions for helping the less fortunate and artwork.

BRIGHAM CITY -- Christmas Tree Lane will begin Saturday at the Brigham City Historic Depot.

This year a “Community Christmas Tree” is planned for those in the community who don’t want to decorate an entire tree by themselves.

Each individual or family is asked to bring in an ornament to hang on the tree. It can be a special family memento, a photo of an individual or a family photo, preferably made into a hanging ornament.

OGDEN — This season, before you unwrap the Christmas ham and decorate the tree, keep in mind the safety of your four-legged family members.

For furry friends, this time of year can spell trouble, from toxic plants and foods to tempting ornaments and power cords used to decorate. With some early planning and a watchful eye, however, you and your pet can have a safe and happy holiday.

Dr. David Hyde and Dr. Scott Van Dyke, veterinarians at Erz Animal Hospital in South Ogden, offer some advice.

WEST POINT — It was like a reunion between the Christmas tree providers and their loyal buyers.

Primping freshly cut Christmas trees for sale, Corey Venstra and his two sons, Chase and Challis, greeted familiar customers, who flock to the family’s lot each year over Black Friday weekend.

Either by name or by sight, the Venstra family Friday morning knew most of the customers visiting the makeshift tree lot in the yard of their West Point home, 4496 W. 800 North.

Putting up Christmas lights is a festive tradition, but you could end up in the ER or dead if you fail to follow some simple safety tips.

SOUTH OGDEN — The sisters at Mount Benedict Monastery are holding one final fundraiser before they leave the area, and they are hoping many local residents will participate.

Once their monastery is sold, the sisters and their foundation will move to St. Joseph, Minn., they announced this week. Over a 10-year period, the foundation’s $5 million in holdings will be passed through United Way of Northern Utah and the Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City for disbursement to 18 nonprofit agencies that serve women and children.

The last fundraiser will be the 27th annual Christmas Grove, which is a way for residents to honor those in the community who have made a difference or who have died.