Tis the season to be frugal

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In Dr. Seuss’ beloved "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," a furry curmudgeon decides to spoil the holiday for the citizens of Whoville. In what becomes a tale of redemption, he does not succeed, but instead learns the true meaning of giving.

This year, there’s a very real and menacing threat wreaking havoc the nation over that makes the Grinch look like Santa — and it goes by the name of Recession.

Dec. 1, The National Bureau of Economic Research, a group of economists charged with tracking the start and end of economic downturns, declared the country is indeed in a recession that began December 2007 and triggered in part by the decline of the labor market. In November of this year, the unemployment rate hit a 15-year high of 7 percent with 10.3 million people out of work, the worst figures since January 1992 when it clocked in at 8 percent, according to The New York Times.

The popular Christmas carol boasts "it’s the most wonderful time of the year," but with Dec. 25 a mere two weeks away many would beg to differ given the dismal state of the economy. With fear in their hearts and dwindling greenbacks, it’s no wonder folks are feeling less than jolly as they try to scrounge up funds for gifts.

Ruth and Domenic Chiavaroli from 10th and Tasker streets are among the frugal. Exiting the Dollar Store in Columbus Commons shopping center on Columbus Boulevard, where the retired couple bought wrapping paper and other Christmas knickknacks, both are spending less this year.

"We’re looking for more bargains than usual …," Ruth said.

"Using sales fliers and lots of coupons, where in past years we wouldn’t bother," her husband added.

For the first time, the couple set a limit on holiday spending for their two daughters and their husbands, as well as their four grandkids.

Savvy shoppers, the Chiavarolis are no doubt way ahead of most because, for the last several years, they have contributed all year to a Christmas club, which many financial institutions offer.

"It’s a separate fund, so when Christmas comes around you already have money set aside. This year, it’s especially come in handy," Ruth said.

At Ikea, a young woman who did not want to give her name said she’s not worried about overspending because if one knows how to shop and where to go, there are deals to be had — like at the Swedish retailer at 2206 S. Columbus Blvd., she said with a laugh. Holiday candles can be found for about $5 and imported coffee and chocolates are inexpensive, as well.

"This is a great place to pick up unique, quality items for anybody on your list," she said.

Inside the megastore Monday afternoon, there was no shortage of shoppers or foot traffic. One salesperson summed it up best when he said, "You can see we’re busy."

Jennifer Braxton, Ikea South Philly public relations manager, acknowledged times are hard and retailers are struggling, but the company is holding its own.

"I think that traffic has been down all over, but in terms of what we’ve been experiencing here, it’s been pretty stable. I think that when times are tough, Ikea tends to do pretty well. Customers that would be going to an Ethan Allen or Raymour & Flanigan are coming here. They don’t mind putting in the sweat equity to put together a furniture piece because they are getting value for their money," she said.

Across town at the Quartermaster Plaza, 24th Street and Oregon Avenue, Tuesday afternoon, Robert Riley was getting some shopping done at BJ’s Wholesale Club — and like most — on a budget. Like the Chiavarolis, Riley did something new: He set a limit of $600 for almost 20 family members, including seven siblings as well as 13 nieces and nephews.

"It’s a lot to spread around, so you look for sales. You try to give them all a little something," the resident of the 1900 block of Lambert Street said.

Trying not to let the state of the economy get him down, Riley is doing what he can to find bargains, like gassing up his car when visiting his sister in Cherry Hill to take advantage of New Jersey’s cheaper prices.

More people than not being cautious this season surely will impact retail sales when tallies are revealed in early January. According to The National Retail Federation in Washington, D.C., holiday 2007 figures crept up a mere 4.4 percent — compared to as much as 6.5 percent or more in previous years — according to figures released by the U.S. Commerce Department. The 4.4 percent fell short of the 5 percent the federation had predicted.

The federation’s Media Relations Manager Kathy Grannis did not return several calls and e-mails for comment.