1.The holiday shopping rush is on, for retailers try to attract last-minute Christmas shoppers, salvaging what has been so far a mediocre December. At Macy's price cuts on most merchandise up to 50%.

2.The video plea from the parents of Madeleine McCann, the British girl missing since May from a resort in Portugal. Her parents released video of Madeleine opening gifts from last Christmas.

3.Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has left the Church of England, converted to Catholicism, now sharing the faith of his wife and children. The Archbishop of Canterbury, leader of the world's Anglicans, wishes Blair the best in his spiritual journey.

4.Just before Christmas this reindeer herd is grounded, due to recent outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease and Bluetongue virus. The herd is usually in demand for holiday displays but not this year. Authorities want a barrier between the animals and everyone else.