| Back in the New York Groove; Vikings thrash Giants
"New York Groove" is a song performed by legendary Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley on his self-titled 1978 album. It also happens to be the ditty that the New York Giants used to play after they scored a touchdown at Giants Stadium. The Minnesota Vikings defense may just claim the song as their own.
Two years ago in North Jersey, Vikings safety Darren Sharper picked off Eli Manning three times, returning one for a touchdown in a 24-21 Minnesota win.
And, while it didn't count, the Vikings trashed the New York Jets, 37-20, during a preseason game at the stadium in August, when both Sharper and linebacker Chad Greenway returned interceptions for touchdowns.
Fast forward to this past Sunday when Sharper, safety Dwight Smith and Greenway all returned Manning interceptions for touchdowns as Minnesota stunned the New York Giants again, 41-17.
Bulletin readers can help wishes come true
The Baxter Bulletin Christmas Wish program has a mission: To provide a nice Christmas for families with children in need. Donations of toys, clothing and money may be made at the Wish Distribution Center in the former Beuford's Bar-B-Q building in Georgetown Square. The center is open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays through Nov. 15 and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 20-Dec. 13. .
For your gamer's wish list
Someday Mario and Master Chief might replace Santa Claus as spokespeople for the holidays. Mario and Master Chief are the main characters of two of this season's hottest video games, and unlike jolly ol' St. Nick, all kids believe in Nintendo and Xbox. As always at this time of year, video games — specifically, the latest video game systems — are on the top of many wish lists. But what kid has the cash to drop on a new piece of hardware that can cost upwards of $500? It's up to the parents to pony up the coin. "X-Box 360 rocks 'cause the first-person online experience of 'Halo 3' is seamlessly integrated with the wireless technology." Um. What? Discussing video games with your child requires learning a somewhat foreign language. Don't worry about it; we'll keep it simple.
Virtual world becoming kids' play
Webkinz is the latest "must-have" plaything for children across the United States and Canada - a cuddly soft toy which has a virtual website twin. Buying the toy, sold for $10 (about R65) and up, gains the proud owner access onto the website ( www.webkinz.com) where they have to care for, dress, entertain and generally pamper their virtual pet. .
Cubs keep Wood for $4.2 million
CHICAGO Given his history of arm problems, even Kerry Wood was surprised at all the interest he drew in free agency. While Wood was tempted to leave the Chicago Cubs, he couldn't be lured from the team he has pitched for his entire career. After making the switch to the bullpen last season after a swift recovery from shoulder problems, Wood agreed Monday to a $4.2 million, one-year deal to return to the Cubs, spurning what general manager Jim Hendry said were numerous multiyear offers elsewhere. He called his decision to stay with the Cubs an easy one. "Chicago's my home," Wood said during a conference call. "Chicago's been great to me. There's no better place to play, especially if you're winning." Wood, the 1998 NL Rookie of the Year, can make an additional $3.45 million in performance bonuses based largely on games finished from 20 to 55.
Retailers stock up on what consumers want this holiday
Interactive games, penguins, dolls, candles and figurines are all hot gift items for the holidays this year, according to the predictions of store managers and owners.Electronic toys and games that encourage physical involvement, such as the Fisher Price Smart Cycle and Nintendo Wii, also will be popular gifts this year, area merchants said.The Smart Cycle is a colorful, stationary bike that plugs into the television set. Children pedal as they play games featuring well-known characters, such as Dora the Explorer and SpongeBob SquarePants.The Smart Cycle is expected to be one of the most popular Christmas items at the Rock Falls Wal-Mart, said Linda Carlson, store manager.The Nintendo Wii is a video game system in which participants play games by doing something physical, such as swinging a golf club or throwing a touchdown pass, rather than just sitting and pressing buttons."The control is innovative; you actually move the control.
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