Consumer Reports

It’s almost time to track Santa’s travels around the world! Visit the link, “Tracking Santa,” near the bottom of the FAQ at USA.gov.

Except for certain circumstances, U.S. passports can be renewed by mail. Visit the link at USA.gov for more information.

More than 100 national parks across the country will waive their fees July 18-19, 2009. Locations include Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Rocky Mountain National Parks. Visit the link at USA.gov for a list of all the “free free” national parks this weekend.

A federal recreation pass can help you save on entrance fees to many federal lands, including national parks, military parks, and national monuments. You can buy passes from participating federal recreation sites, by phone, or online. For more information, visit the link at USA.gov.

More than 4,600 farmers markets operate throughout the U.S.–some seasonally, some throughout the year. To find a farmers market near you, visit the link at USA.gov.

If you see or hear lightning, seek shelter immediately in a building if you’re outdoors, and avoid showers, sinks, and electronic equipment if you’re indoors. Lightning Safety Awareness Week is June 21-27. Visit the link at USA.gov for more tips.

Beginning Friday, June 12, 2009, all U.S. television stations will broadcast only in digital. Visit the link at USA.gov for answers to frequently asked questions about DTV.

June is African-American Music Appreciation Month. Visit the link to learn about famous African-American musical talents — and African-American music throughout history — which continue to influence musicians today.

The National Moment of Remembrance will be held at 3 PM local time on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25. The observance was created to encourage all Americans to pause wherever they are at that time for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. For more information on Memorial Day, visit the link at USA.gov.

May 22, 2009, is National Maritime Day, to recognize the maritime industry and its contribution to the U.S. economy. On this date in 1819, the steamship Savannah set sail from Savannah, Georgia, on the first transoceanic voyage under steam power. For information on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration, visit the link at USA.gov.