Toys and Games
It’s a time for watching the kids opening their presents, then getting down on your knees to share in the fun

Nintendo Wii
Though last year’s holiday hype was all about Playstation 3, it’s the less-heralded Nintendo Wii that has emerged as the real winner among video game systems, selling more units in the past year than either the PS3 or the Xbox 360. While those more expensive machines focus on cutting-edge graphics and sound, the Wii has proven incredibly popular by creating simple but fun games that appeal to just about anybody. The motion-activated controller makes playing the Wii a blast, alone or with friends. If you see one, grab it, as these have been selling out long before the Christmas season.
Price: $250 / www.nintendo.com

Guitar Hero 3: Legends of Rock
This absurdly addictive video game is back with a third edition that brings the best list of songs yet. It’s hard to explain the appeal until you’ve played it, but once you pick up that plastic guitar and try to play along to Guns ‘n’ Roses, Weezer, or Metallica in the comfort of your living room, you won’t want to put it down.
Price: Starts at $50 / www.amazon.com

Monopoly: Boutique Edition
We’re not sure if anybody has ever actually finished a game of Monopoly, but girls will give it a good try with this estrogen-laced pink edition of the game. Players purchase the familiar-named properties, but instead of hotels and houses, they can build malls and boutiques. Gone are Chance and Community Chest cards, replaced by Instant Messages and Text Messages.
Price: $30 / www.hasbro.com

Smart Cycle
This is one video game you’ll be glad to have your child play. A combination of a stationary bicycle, an arcade game, and a learning video, the Smart Cycle keeps energetic kids busy and entertained while teaching concepts like problem-solving, spatial reasoning, numbers, and spelling.
Price: $100 / www.fisherprice.com

FurReal Friends
Last year brought us Butterscotch, a three-foot, $300 robotic pony that whinnies, neighs, moves its head, and “eats” carrots. This year, Hasbro has introduced Squawkers McCaw, a $70 feather-covered animatronic bird that dances, plays, and repeats what it hears (watch your language when you’re alone). There’s also a line of puppies that bark and play with rope.
Price: $20 and up / www.hasbro.com/furreal

Grand Walk-In Kitchen
This play kitchen, which comes with 103 different accessories, is probably nicer than your college apartment kitchen and nearly as expensive. The set-up includes six feet of faux-granite counter space, fake-hardwood floors, play microwave, stove, and phone. Adult assembly required.
Price: $260 / www.step2.com

Kid Tough Digital Camera
Let your children explore their artistic sides without worrying about them busting up a $200 camera. The Kid Tough camera is a real, working digital camera, complete with LCD screen, that’s designed to take a beating and survive repeated drops.
Price: $70 / www.fisherprice.com

FEATURES

'Tis the Season

Holiday stories that will provoke laughter and tears, or maybe just a heartwarming smile...



Cover Focus
Celebrating the season. Toni Holiday and her husband Joe have decorated their front door with the warmth of a classic wreath. Designed by Cynthia Cobb of the Cobb Collection of Peters Township

School Lunch, Revisited
The cafeteria represents a different culinary experience for today's hungry kids

How Shop 'n Save Makes a Difference
It's pre-made sandwich program earns the store a community thanks every Friday

Sports Champions

The Artist's Sole
Turning inspiration into flashy footwear is paying off for one local artist

Lady of the Lanes
SF senior Tammy Veneski finds that bowling success comes naturally

School Fitness Center Open to Public  

New School Board as of 12/3/2007

School Calendar

Little Lions' Preschool Registration

South Fayette Presents Proposed Preliminary Budget

Paying it Forward

Lights, Camera, Good Nutrition!

Campus Notes