Blast Magazine» holiday

The single girl’s guide to New Year’s Eve

Patricia Leavy — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:44:59 +0000

Sometimes people use New Year’s Eve as a barometer to measure how well their life is going: Big plans equals a big life. Over-bloated expectations can make this a tough holiday, especially when you’re single. It is impossible to escape the questions that highlight great expectations others have for your “big night.” And on top of it all, if you’re single there’s the dreaded tradition of someone to kiss at midnight.

There are two typical ways single gals may deal with the New Year’s Eve pressure-cooker: avoiding it or faking it. But there’s no reason to crawl under the covers or to slap on a make-believe happy face and stay out until all hours. Here are my top tips for single women looking to genuinely enjoy New Year’s Eve, either with your single friends or on your own.

If you have some other single gal-pals this is a great opportunity to spend some time with them. Use New Year’s as an excuse to capitalize on the importance of strong female friendships and to celebrate the women in your life.

Have a girlfriend get-together at your place.

If you’re with your friends I recommend avoiding the bar or club scene. It’s a high-pressure night and you’re likely to feel like it’s all about forced-fun, flirting with anyone around, and potentially hooking-up with someone you would avoid on a “normal” day. Instead, grab your girlfriends and stay in.

Host a finger food party.

Have each guest bring an appetizer and a bite-size dessert. These fun foods can be passed around all night or set up on a buffet. You can munch throughout the evening as you talk, drink and laugh. This will be less work than serving a traditional dinner and a lot more fun.

Have a classic movie marathon.

Pick up a set of classic mysteries (like Hitchcock) or have a horror film festival. Avoid anything sappy, like dramas and romantic comedies. Pop a few batches of popcorn (you can add fun flavors to them to make it more festive) and ask each of your friends to bring a bag of their favorite fun-size candies/chocolates. Create a little movie buffet, sit down and have some fun. Incidentally, this movie night can just as easily be adapted for one. Don’t skimp on yourself—do up the popcorn and candy and see some of the movies that have always been on your “list.”

Make your own spa night.

Stop at your local beauty supply store and splurge on some relaxing spa treatments: bubble bath, a body exfoliator, a face mask and some luxurious lotion. Follow-up with a do-it-yourself manicure and pedicure in a cheerful color that embraces the day.

Don’t forget, in life you need to take care of yourself first so kick off the New Year celebrating the most important person in your life – YOU – and get ready for your best year yet!

Sip these festive Thanksgiving cocktails

Shannon O'Neill — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:59:34 +0000

With all the focus on turkey, mashed potatoes and yams, one important part of a Thanksgiving meal is often overlooked: the cocktails. Thankfully, Drambuie Liqueur and William Grant & Sons Distillers gave Blast some delicious and festive drink recipes for you to sip before, during, and after the best meal of the year.

Solerno Celebration Punch

1 bottle Solerno

1 bottle Lillet Rouge

1 bottle dry, sparkling white wine

16 ounces freshly brewed, strong, chai spiced black tea (no cream or sugar added)

8 ounces Fever Tree Ginger Beer

8 ounces freshly squeezed lemon juice

16 dashes Angostura bitters

Over a large block of ice in a punch bowl, pour all of the ingredients and stir to combine. Garnish with thinly sliced orange wheels. Serve in punch cups with a cinnamon stick and small wedge of orange.

Cranberry Sauce Cooler

1 ounce Solerno blood orange Liqueur

1 ounce Hendrick’s Gin

2 barspoons Solerno Cranberry Sauce*

1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice

2 ounces soda water

Shake Solerno, Hendrick’s, lemon juice and cranberry sauce* over ice and strain into a tall glass over fresh ice. Fill with soda water and stir to incorporate. Garnish with a fresh cranberry and an orange twist.

Solerno Cranberry Sauce*

1 bag of fresh, organic cranberries, washed

3/4 cup organic sugar

1/4 cup Solerno

1/2 cup fresh orange juice

1/2 cup Lillet Rouge

1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest

1 pinch ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1 cinnamon stick

In a medium sized saucepan over medium heat, dissolve the sugar in the orange juice, Solerno and Lillet Rouge. Add the spices and orange zest, stir in the cranberries and cook until the cranberries start to pop (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and place sauce in a bowl. Cranberry sauce will thicken as it cools.

First & Last

2 part apple juice

.5 part lemon juice

.5 part simple syrup (1:1 ratio)

1 part Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum

.5 part sparkling wine

In a punch bowl, add juices and syrup together over ice. Add rum and stir gently. Slowly pour sparkling wine into punch. Add sliced oranges and apples to punch bowl and serve cold.

Milagro Horchata Punch

6 parts Milagro Anejo

2 parts Averna

2 parts lime juice

1 part almond syrup or Orgeat

6 parts Horchata

8 Thai basil or basil leaves

2 parts pear juice

8 dashes barrel-aged bitters

1 part water

Mix all ingredients in a large punch bowl, allowing two hours for basil to infuse. Remove basil before serving. Serve over ice with a garnish of pear slices and cinnamon.

Hot Gin Punch

24 ounces Hendrick’s Gin

24 ounces Madeira wine

6 lemon twists

1 orange slice

3 large chunks pineapple

3 ounces honey

1 ounce fresh lemon juice

3 cloves

1 pinch ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon brown sugar

Add all the ingredients to a large saucepan over low heat and simmer for 20 minutes. To serve, strain and pour the hot mixture into a punch bowl or teapot and garnish with orange slices studded with cloves.

Drambuie Toddy with Ginger and Green Tea

1 1/4 part Drambuie

2 thin slices fresh ginger

1 thin slice lemon

6 parts green tea (piping hot)

In a large mug, add all ingredients. Stir, then let steep for 1 minute. Serve hot.

Drambuie & Cider

1 part Drambuie

4 parts hot cider

Pour ingredients into a mug. Stir and serve with a cinnamon stick.

Get in the holiday spirit with alcoholic whipped cream

Shannon O'Neill — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 23:22:44 +0000

(Media Credit/www.whippedlightning.com)

Add an extra buzz to your cup of hot chocolate, your slice of apple pie, or your favorite cocktail with Whipped Lightning, alcohol-infused whipped cream that comes in a variety of mouth-watering flavors.

Dubbed “whipahol” by its makers, this sweet fluff claims to be the world’s first of its kind. Whipped Lightning’s Web site lists the following flavors, each ranging from 16.75 percent to 18.25 percent alcohol per volume, the equivalent of more than three beers: German Chocolate, Caramel Pecan, Hazelnut Espresso, Amaretto, White Chocolate Raspberry, Spiced Vanilla, Tropical Passion, Coconut, and Strawberry Colada. Yum!

But in light of the recent federal crackdown on caffeinated alcoholic beverages that led to some states banning popular drinks such as Four Loko, this product is sure to have parents and school officials concerned. Lucky for them (but bad for those of us who are 21 and over), some states are devoid of this flavorful beverage-topper. To find out where to buy it near you, go here. The prices are not listed on the product’s Web site, but a quick Internet search shows that prices can vary from $7.99 to $12.91.

But for those of us who are of age, “whipahol” is a delicious and decadent addition to our liquor cabinets. That’s right: there’s no need to refrigerate it. This brings us to the slightly disturbing fact that the FDA does not need to regulate “whipahol” because it’s considered an alcoholic beverage and not a food product. But is there even any actual cream in it? Is it super fattening? Apparently we don’t need to know, and this will surely open a whole new can of worms — delicious, creamy (or should it be “creamy?”), alcoholic worms at that.

Battlefield 1943 soon available on the cheap

Eddie Makuch — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 23:20:00 +0000

Now this is change I can believe in.

Electronic Arts is hacking and slashing (to bits and pieces), the price of this summer’s mega-popular Xbox Live Arcade shooter, Battlefield 1943.

Beginning Dec. 31 for the freakishly low price of 600 MS Points, you can partake in all the beach-storming, tank-driving, and rifle-sniping action your brain can handle.

The 600 MS Points price point is a 50% percent reduction (was 1200) and makes this deal so hot, I want to buy a second copy.

Sorry PS3 enthusiasts, the savings are part of Microsoft’s Holiday Savings Event, thus still demanding full price from you guys.

We loved it, and in case you missed our review, score some knowledge right here and catch Marc and I on Xbox Live tomorrow as we pounce on the troves of fresh meat.

A Blast New Years with SYNERGY and you!

Blast Magazine Newsroom — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:20:42 +0000

Join Blast on New Year’s Eve this year, and party with us in style!

Remember, January 1 is Blast’s birthday, so we’ll be partying all night.

TIMELESS 2010: An Exclusive New Years Eve Gala

Dec 31, 2009 starting at 9:00 PM

SPECIAL TICKET DISCOUNTS UNTIL DEC 1ST

The SYNERGY Events (recent producer of The Emerging Trends 2009 and 3rd Annual Boston Fashion Week Celebration Party) cordially invites you back to TIMELESS, for the vogue and refined, with extensive entertainment to finish the year off right.

Enjoy a night of Old Hollywood Glamour with uber-exclusive social elite & fashionistas at the Calderwood Pavilion located at 527 Tremont Street – Boston’s most ultra-stylish private event space.

HIGHLIGHTS:

- International upscale crowd (21-35 age group)
- The first 100 online ticket holders will receive a chance to win a brand new iPhone
- Red carpet reception
- Complimentary appetizers
- Three premium cash bars with VIP reception for VIP ticket holders
- DJ ILMADIK spinning Pop, Euro House, Arabic House, Top 40′s mash up and Hip-Hop. Say no to 30 second DJs playing the same old songs from the radio!! Music directions by DJ Reaz & Farhan.
- Live Band by Violette (France/NYC). The band will start the night with an infusion of Soul, Jazz & Funk
- Glamorous vintage fashion exhibit by international fashion designer Karen Sabag (Israel/NYC)
- Live projection of midnight countdown from Times Square
- Live vocal finale by Lee Wilson (NYC/Boston)
- Outstanding d©cor, lights and sound
- Prizes awarded to the best dressed male and female
- Many other surprises and giveaways in storeâ€¦

CHARITY:
A portion of the event profit will benefit The Home for Little Wanderers (www.thehome.org) that has been a Massachusetts landscape for over 200 years. The non profit organization services to thousands of children and families each year.

DRESS CODE:
Black Tie optional. It is strongly recommended that you dress to match the theme.

REDUCED ONLINE TICKETS (SAVE $20 UNTIL DEC 1ST) AT: WWW.SYNERGYNYE.COM

WE EXPECT NOTHING LESS THAN A SOLD OUT EVENT LIKE LAST YEAR!!

Microsoft unveils two Xbox 360 Holiday Bundles

Eddie Makuch — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:58:17 +0000

Microsoft laid rumors to rest today and officially unveiled two Xbox 360 Holiday 2009 bundles, and they’re more than attractive.

The first contains an Xbox 360 Elite console as well as LEGO: Batman and PURE, and will sell in the United States and Canada for $299.

The other, the “Xbox 360 Wireless Controller Game Pack” is more than just a mouthful. It has a black wireless controller packed in, alongside four great arcade games; Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2, Lumines LIVE!, Bomberman LIVE!, and Ms. Pac-Man.

Pile these new offerings on top of the already announced Modern Warfare 2 and Halo 3:ODST limited edition consoles, and you have many options this Holiday season for the gamer on your list.

Both bundles are shipping to retailers as we speak and should show up at your local GameStops and Best Buys very soon.

Five easy ways to cut back on costs this holiday season

Blast Magazine Newsroom — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 04:00:04 +0000

(ARA) – With the brisk air settling and the end of the year quickly approaching, many people are eagerly turning their focus towards holiday preparation and excitement for the wonderful things to come. From gatherings with friends and family to building a snowman in the first snowfall, traditional activities will begin anew. But one tradition that may bring more anxiety than excitement this season is the anticipation of holiday spending and gift giving.

It should come as no surprise to most that economists are predicting significantly less spending this holiday season than in previous years. Facing growing financial concerns, a lack of confidence in the economy, and rising food and fuel costs, many shoppers will be much more conservative with their holiday spending.

But there is good news that should turn that “Bah Humbug” attitude around. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways a savvy shopper can avoid the squeeze to ensure that the “season of giving” remains just as it is.

Here are five simple ways to cut back on costs this holiday season without having to cut back on giving:

Be Thrifty!

Believe it or not, it is possible to get top of the line items without paying top of the line prices. Seek gifts from consignment shops and thrift stores. Savvy shoppers can find everything from designer clothes and shoes to home appliances and furniture, all for highly discounted prices. Often these items can be found brand new.

Stay Alert

Just because a deal seems too good to be true doesn’t mean it is. Utilize retailer incentives and in-store promotions. Offers such as free shipping, buy-one-get-one-free or “the more you spend the more you save” are great ways to save excess funds, particularly when buying multiple gifts at once or when buying in bulk.

Shop Smart for Practical Items

Buying gifts during the holidays is often just the tip of the iceberg. It’s the food and other everyday items that add up too. The good news is you don’t have to skimp on quality to save on cost. Shop smart and choose brands that offer great performance at a lower price. Take batteries, for instance. Americans will spend more than $600 million on them this holiday season. But there’s an easy way to save. Rayovac batteries are proven to last just as long as the top two brands but cost less. So that remote control car for Johnny may cost an arm and a leg, but the batteries don’t have to.

Create a List

This is probably the easiest and yet most underestimated tool there is — create a list and stick to it. Creating a list accomplishes a couple of very important things: it helps shoppers stay organized and focused, and it serves as a good tool for managing a budget. Take extra time upfront to carefully think through who will be on the list and how the set budget will break out overall. It will make shopping a breeze and ultimately alleviate unnecessary stress along the way. And isn’t that the best gift of all?

Shop Online

Online shopping has many benefits beyond avoiding crowded stores and checkout lines. A number of online couponing sites now make it quicker and easier than ever to shop online and save big. Shoppers can often browse by their favorite store or category to find coupon codes for discounted prices, free shipping and more. And you can achieve this from the comfort of home, where the gas prices don’t matter.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Gift Ideas: Clawing out of the stocking

Bessie King — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:42:54 +0000

If you’re looking for that gift with a “wow!” factor keep reading this article. Amongst the many things businesses pull together for the holiday season- Christmas albums, special edition DVDs, all-inclusive travel deals- it seems amazing that a new company from Maine is outdoing them all.

Catch a Piece of Maine was founded by two brothers,‚ Brendan and‚ John Ready,‚ who after being raised in the lobstering community decided to get their own boat and start catching lobsters‚ after high school. Fortunately for them, their parents encouraged a higher education. After going to universities in Boston and getting degrees in business, they put their newfound knowledge to work.‚

They founded a company, Ready Inc., and created a new way to sell lobsters by offering ownership of a lobsterman’s trap to get 13 lobster baskets direct from the fisher for a year.‚

“We are a community supported fishing model that is relevant for the Maine lobster industry. In the past 50 years there has been very little change and what we can offer is the quality product with the experiential value,” explained John Ready.

Each basket includes four pound-and-a half lobsters, pound of steamer clams, pound of mussels and four servings of typical Maine desserts like blueberry brownies or whoopee-pies. ‚ The shipments also bring a photo and story of the lobsterman who works the trap; a map of where the trap is located; a personalized note from the lobsterman telling how the fishing went; next day delivery, classic lobster-printed white bibs and, last but not least, a call form the lobsterman himself the night of delivery to ensure costumers are happy with their bounty.‚

‚ Aside from canceling third parties, trap holders establish a relationship with those who run their trap and learn what the real lobstering life is about.‚ It may sound like too much razzle-dazzle but this personal treatment is what sets the Ready brothers apart, selling more than two million pounds of lobster annually.

“We have customers who really look forward to receiving their call the night of their delivery. They have dinners on that day and its not strange to be put on speakerphone to join the party, people love being involved, they like to know they form a part of what we do,” said Ready.

Their business model has helped create a feeling of togetherness amongst the lobstermen, something that Ready said is not often found. Not only that, it is creating jobs in an ailing industry and encouraging consumers to continue buying the clawed crustacean. The yearlong share costs $3,000 but there are other options that have become as big sellers as the yearly “subscription.”

“We are here to please you, I just had a call from a woman who said, “ËœI love lobster tails, send me 20 by this date’ and we did. Our consumers like experiential gifts so we have an array of smaller custom made options to never say “Ëœno’ and give them the same experience,” Ready said.

One of those options is the $250 “Lobster Share” pack. ‚ It includes the same four hard shell lobsters, steamer clams, ‚ mussels and Maine made desserts and personalized messages as the shareholders monthly basket does. It also comes with the popular call from the lobsterman‚ who caught your delicious dinner.‚

If you don’ know whether or not a person likes lobsters, the business on-line store also offers Catch a Piece of Maine gear gift certificates and a colorful 2009 calendar filed with Maine scenery and lobstermen’s photos.

In a time when the lobster industry is in decline this company has grown at an amazing rate. The difference being in that the brothers use their salesman skills effectively to help revitalize the lobstering community and make a profit along the way.‚

“We grew up in this lifestyle, because catching and selling lobsters really is a lifestyle. When we see the men that we looked up to as children struggling to pay bills or make things work we’re not only concerned with making a business successful, we’re concerned for our family,” Ready shared.‚ “This is what other people see too and by getting even a small piece of it they know their gift will be unique and that our community will keep going.”

Whether your holiday list is on a budget or not, the custom packages and apparel from these Mainers are special options to consider. Because, if you think about it, who else can boast after New Years that the “lobsterman called, wanting to make sure you got your lobsters alright” at the office?

Get your own piece of Main by sending an email to Giveaways@BlastMagazine.com with your contact information by January 1st to win the lobstermen’s 2009 calendar!

Holiday gaming preview: Gears of War 2 vs Resistance 2

Derrick Kasianowicz — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 05:12:29 +0000

Next-gen first person shooter fans are in for a treat this holiday season. Gears of War 2 and Resistance 2 are quickly on the way, ‚ and your urge to kill locust or chimera will be swiftly re-birthed. However, for those of us with two next gen consoles on a tight budget, your choice might not be as clear yet.

GoW2 really hits multiplayer hard, which it should, given Xbox Live’s expansive online community, and the success of the original Gears online play. It would be crazy not to build upon that. Three new multiplayer modes: wingman, guardian and submission have been added to the original four.‚

Wingman pairs up two people to face off against four other groups of two people in a death match. Submission is like a darker capture the flag which pits two teams of five with the task of killing an AI regulated character, and then carry their dead carcass back to their home base. Guardian is exactly like Assassination, but with a twist: ‚ it allows the players to keep fighting after their leader has been killed, but takes away the ability to respawn

When it comes to story, GoW2 does not offer too much. It’s definitely bigger, with huge enemies and environments that will certainly take full advantage of your HDTV.‚

The story begins six months after the ending credits of the last Gears of War. Not much is known about the story, all that is known for sure is that Fenix has a love interest, people will die, and Carmine will be back. The rest ‚ is pretty much the same, locusts are taking over the cities, and Fenix and his diehard crew are the only ones to stop them, (hmm … Halo anyone?) If you are looking for an intricate story , you may be best served to look elsewhere.

It’s basically the same plot that has been rehashed since WWII, evil forces are taking over the world, and only a select few can stop them — except with this one, you got chainsaws. ‚

Many PlayStation 3 owners experienced arguably the best of the systems launch lineup with Resistance: Fall of Man. The game was a huge success critically and consumer wise. There was no doubt that a sequel would be made and two years later it happened.‚

With Resistance 2, it is all about scale. Insomniac’s latest shooter delivers on just that, with 100-foot enemies, 60 player online, and 8-person cooperative play, complete with its own storyline.

The story takes place two years after the first, starting off where the last cinematic from the original Resistance left off. ‚ Our hero, Nathan Hale, joins a powerful group of super soldiers called The Sentinels that seem to have the same immunity to the Chimeran virus as him.

This time around the narrative will be from Hale’s perspective, unlike the first games where the story had been told through Rachel Parker’s eyes.‚

Multiplayer has been improved considerably with up to 60 players playing at once. Insomniac knows that with 60 people in one area would just be unmitigated chaos. The solution was to split the 60 players into groups of five giving each group specific objectives to complete.‚

The weapons from the first game will be making a return, but with a few added tweaks. Like the Bulls-eye, which now has a sniper scope One new and interesting new weapon ‚ is the Splicer which shoots electromagnetically charged saw blades at your opponent, slicing them into ribbons.

If the 60 person multiplayer doesn’t catch your interest there is an 8-player cooperative campaign for you and seven other buddies to play. Instead of just letting you play through the single player storyline, Insomniac has created a separate storyline that scales to the amount of players that are playing. Players have up to three different classes to choose from. The Tank has high health and has a shield to help take heavy damage, special ops, who deals heavy damage, but has low health and medic who is the primary support class who focuses on the group.

It is to see that with the amount of things being crammed into this one title that you would have a hard choice of purchasing a game. If the promise of a huge, deep story with 100 foot boss fight, 60 player online play, and an 8 person cooperative campaign doesn’t sell you on this game — nothing will.

Blast Magazine Correspondent‚ Juneil Cabreza also contributed to this article.

Hit up the Beehive, Boston’s hottest spot, for New Years Eve

Blast Magazine Newsroom — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 02:05:27 +0000

Come celebrate 2008 in style at The Beehive’s first annual New Years Eve celebration. The Beehive is offering an extravagant night of bohemian decadence and eccentric fun. Spend your New Year’s Eve exploring your senses as you take in the wonder of a Parisian Burlesque show and dance the night away to the live Latin sounds of Grupo Fantasia, a seven piece Salsa band.

Executive Chef Rebecca Newell will feature passed plates of gypsy fare and desserts (including chocolate fountains and a cotton candy machine) throughout the evening with influences from Europe, the Mediterranean and good ol’ Americana, all served in a cocktail setting. Continue your celebration and toast the evening with The Beehive’s list of over 25 Champagnes!

The event Begins at: 9:30 p.m. and runs until 2:30 a.m. Cost is $95.00 per person plus cash bar. Tickets/Reservations are available by calling the Beehive at 617.423.0069.

Quick hits:

Where: The Beehive, 541 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02116

When: Monday, December 31, 9 p.m. — 2:30 a.m.

Cost: $95.00 Reservations/Ticketing Available by logging on to: beehiveboston.com

About:

The Beehive or "La Ruche" — was an early 20th-century artists’ colony in Paris where the likes of Matisse and Chagall worked and made merry. Today The Beehive is an underground Bohemian bistro featuring amazing cuisine, libations, artwork and live music nightly. Nestled below the Boston Center for the Art’s historic Cyclorama in Boston’s South End, The Beehive serves the eclectic fare of Chef Rebecca Newell, rustic comfort foods infused with American, European, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern influences. Open for dinner 5:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week, and with cocktails and live entertainment available nightly until 2:00 am.

A Blast Magazine holiday

John M. Guilfoil — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 07:01:24 +0000

Here at Blast, we have a bunch of traditional, odd, and downright original holiday plans. We thought we’d share them with you.

One of Blast’s great mid-year staff editions, Holly Jobbagy decided to combine video golf and teddy bears for her boyfriend.

“He’s especially into golf, and since he can’t play this time of year, I got him the Plug-and-Play Golden Tee Golf Game from Brookstone — available online or in the store catalog,” she said. “I also went to Build-a-Bear and got built him one, but included a special, personalized message. When he presses the Bear’s hand, he will hear my voice.”

The bear will be holding the game in its paw!

Blast Correspondent Ashley Dean shared a unique tradition.

“After our big dinner we get out a big box of fancy chocolates and play a game. ,” she said The rules are:

Go in a circle, everyone takes on at a time
No looking at the guide to see what kind you’re taking
Take a bite, if you don’t like it you can put it back or finish it anyway. If you put the rest back, you’re out
The winner is the last person left!

Here’s Samantha Lavine’s recipee for super holiday Rice Krispies treats!

Ingredients:
3 Tablespoons margarine or butter (John says use butter)
1 Package regular marshmallows or 4 cups miniature marshmallows
6 Cups Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Cereal OR 6 Cups of Kellogg’s Cocoa Rice Krispies Cereal
Holiday Sprinkles
Red String-Licorice

Then:

Melt margarine in large saucepan over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.
Add cereal. Stir until well coated.
Using buttered spatula or waxed paper, press mixture evenly into 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cut into 2-inch squares when cool.
Decorate with holiday sprinkles and use red string licorice for ribbon.

Best if served the same day.

Mircowave Directions:
In a large microwave-safe bowl, heat margarine and marshmallows at HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Follow steps 2 through 4, above.

As for me, I’ll be in Connecticut embracing my Italianness, eating fresh fish and playing Pinochle. Pinochle is a game that I love so much that I’m letting you download a little DOS game for free as one of my Christmas gifts to you.

We have Carlos Watson and a 20-something who works as a mortician next month. Keep on reading!

Happy Holidays from Blast Magazine and Happy 2008!

Elf Yourself

Briana King — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 07:00:24 +0000

Look at me I’m an elf!

Seems like an untrue statement for a woman who’s 5’10″ until you visit elfyourself.com and start the elfmorphosis.

By uploading up to four photos, you can create a whole group of elves for your dancing pleasure. It is easy to upload photos with tools there to resize and rotate and allow you to get your face right in there. The fun part comes when it’s time to upload a message. Call a toll free number and following the instructions!

All that’s left to do is give the dance instruction. After you press play your elf self begins a rock concert dance to Jingle Bells with your message playing throughout in your elf’ed voice. This is a hilarious holiday treat!

Making a list and playing it twice: Holiday downloads

Chris DeMatteo — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 07:00:13 +0000

The Favorites

The Pogues “Fairytale of New York”
Christmas Eve in a New York City drunk tank, a down on their luck dueting Irish couple (Pogues singer Shane McGowan and Kirsty McColl) trade insults and heartbreak before the holiday magic sets in. My all-time favorite.

The Kinks “Father Christmas”
Blending economic reality with dreams of beating up a department store Santa, the Kinks rock their way to second on the list.

KC101 “Christmas in East Haven”
DJ’s from radio station KC101 (WKCI 101.3) sing about a place very near and dear to me: East Haven, CT. This song became a local favorite when it came out years ago and is still pretty accurate. For those of you who have not been to East Havenâ€”visit. The town was also the setting for the opening of Oceans’s 12.

“Oi to the World”
Written and originally performed by the Vandals, I prefer No Doubt’s version of this song about a gang war on Christmas. “If God came down on Christmas Day, I know exactly what he’d say / He’d say Oi to the punks! Oi to the skins! Check out this awesome song and everybody wins!”

The Darkness “Christmas Time”
This song rocks so much you’d wish it was Christmas every day just so you can play it.

Run-DMC “Christmas in Hollis”
Like DMC with the mic in his hands, with this song you’ll be chillin’ and coolin’ like a snow man.

The Ramones “Merry Christmas (I Don’t Want to Fight Tonight)”
This song was actually recorded by some of the lesser-known members of the Queens punk band: Rudolph Ramone, Donner Ramone, Dixon Ramone and Dancer Ramone. The original title was the “Blitzen Bop.”

Adam Sandler’s Chanukah Songs
There are a lot of famous Jews; more than enough for a fourth installment. Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David haven’t been honored yet.

Blink 182 “I Won’t Be Home for Christmas”
Who hasn’t lashed out on a bunch of Christmas carolers? I haven’t because I’ve never seen or heard of Christmas carolers going door to door singing outside of movies and TV. I feel that’s another Hollywood myth like families passing down wedding rings.

Billy Mack “Christmas is All Around”
This is the song in Love Actually. I saw it and thought it was very good. Even better when you think of all the washed-up real-life rock stars who should resurrect their careers with a Christmas record that is really a remake of an earlier hit. I don’t know about you, but I’d be ecstatic for a “Winter of ’69.”

Mr. Garrison “Merry Fucking Christmas”
The title says it all.

Dr. Elmo “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer”
A classic. I agree: they should never give a license to a man who drives a sleigh and plays with elves. Seriously, have you ever been stuck behind a sleigh on the road? Not cool.

John Lennon “So This is Christmas”
Someone answer me this: how many John Lennon songs involve children singing in the background? It has to be a greater proportion than any other musician, greater than the ratio of jokes about kids to songs by Michael Jackson and R. Kelly.

“Blue Christmas”
I actually might have to go with Bright Eyes’ remake of this Elvis tune. Blasphemous I know, but who’s more believable in having a blue Christmas.

“Jingle Bell Rock”
Originally done by Bobby Helms in 1957, this song has been covered by everyone, including Hall and Oates, Billy Idol, Hilary Duff, Randy Travis, Brian Setzer and Arcade Fire. I can only hope Andrew W.K. takes up the cause.

“Christmas Wrapping”
The Waitresses did the original but Save Ferris remade it with Monique singing about being a Jew on Christmas in LA and even asking why Adam Sandler didn’t give her a shout-out.

Eazy-E “Merry Muthafuckin’ Christmas”
Yes, this is a real song. Christmas in Compton.

Anything by Bob Rivers and Twisted Radio
From “I Am Santa Claus” (“Iron Man”) to “Police Stop My Car” (“Feliz Navidad”), Bob Rivers is the king of Christmas parody. Here’s an idea: “Santa’s Little Helper” to the Stones’ “Mother’s Little Helper.”

Artists that Should Record Christmas Songs

Buckcherry
It might actually be a good thing Buckcherry doesn’t have a Christmas song yet. If they did, its inevitable awesomeness would generate so much holiday spirit that the entire Pacific Northwest would be leveled to fill the need for Christmas trees it would produce.

Mandy Moore
This is mainly so Mandy could make a video in which she dresses in a Santa hat and suit. I think it should also include a hot tub. Baby, it’s cold outside.

Rage Against the Machine
With all the commercialism and injustice on Christmas, how has Rage not written a song about it?

Afroman
I’m sure he’d be able to write something about hos, Christmas “trees” and unwrapping some Colt .45. He probably even started, but then got high.

Bruce Springsteen
Bruce’s Christmas song would give the entire history of Christmas and before performing it at a sold-out arena, he would tell the entire story behind the song and what he was doing while he wrote it. Scrooge would be a character that really represents the government and the record would sell 20 million copies.

I Didn’t Forget These Songs, They Just Suck

Paul McCartney “Wonderful Christmas Time”
Sucks might be too strong a word. Annoying is too weak.

Dave Matthews “Christmas Song”
Too boring.

Late addition: “The Night Santa Went Crazy” by Weird Al

It’s by Weird Al and based on “Black Gold” by Soul Asylum. Far from Miracle on 34th Street, this ballad about a “yuletide Rambo” is not only holiday gold, but possibly one of Weird Al’s best songs and that’s saying a lot. Come on, it includes ‘reindeer sausage.’ Speaking of Rambo, has anyone else seen previews for a new Rambo movie? Please tell me I’m not imagining things.

Avoid credit card traps this holiday season

Blast Magazine Newsroom — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 07:00:07 +0000

Here are some tips from Americans for Fairness in Lending on credit during the holiday season.

“With holiday gift-buying in full swing, college students are at even greater risk than usual of falling into traps set by credit card companies using predatory lending practices,” said Jim Campen, Executive Director. “Americans for Fairness in Lending is getting out a holiday season tip sheet for these students, already a favorite target for marketers of credit cards. We are also circulating a fact sheet on college students and credit cards.”

Don’t get tricked, trapped or suckered into a card with bad terms. If you want a credit card, get one with a long-term low interest rate (APR). If you get a low introductory rate, chances are it’ll start at 0% and then jump to 20% with one almost-on-time-but-didn’t-quite-make-it payment. Still want a credit card? Just know what you’re in forâ€¦
Once you choose a card, don’t let your guard down. Credit card companies are notorious for changing rules and playing GOTCHA. Look through those mailings they sendâ€¦they may include a nasty change in terms.
Pay your bill on time. Better yet, pay it several days ahead of time. If the due date is on a Sunday and your payment (duh) arrives on Monday — you’re late! Don’t laugh, this is REALLY common. And when you’re late — see (1) above, your interest rate jacks up.
your bill in full. Whenever possible. And as quickly as you can.
Do not go over your credit limit. And set the credit limit as low as possible. Don’t be fooled — credit card companies LOVE to give you a credit limit you can’t afford.
Stay as far away from a credit card â€˜cash advance’ as you can. The interest rate on cash advances is MUCH higher and credit card companies apply any payment you make to whatever else you owe first. That cash advance hangs around unpaid and with increasing interest until you DO pay your bill in full. Did we already mention that they’re looking to get you?
Ignore those in-store "15% off today if you sign up for our credit card" offers. You’ll pay back what you saved and then some REAL fast.
Carry only one card. Less confusion. How many companies do you want abusing you at once?
If you do get into credit card debt, get help right away. Don’t wait until it gets worse. Try the Consumer Action Help Desk at http://www.consumer-action.org/helpdesk/.
Remember your other option: CASH

Also, college students and recent grads, feel free to download this PDF from AFFIL.

American-made toys making a comeback this year

Blast Magazine Newsroom — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 07:00:04 +0000

(ARA) — Parents looking to fill their children’s holiday wish lists have more on their minds this year than whether Johnny was naughty or Susie was nice. This year, parents are plagued by recalls of some of the season’s most-sought-after toys by big-name manufacturers.

The recent recalls of Chinese-manufactured toys have given a whole new life to the concept “buy American.”

“Buying toys and other goods made in America has always been a patriotic thing to do, something that supported the domestic economy,” said Glenda Lehman-Ervin, mother of two and a principal of Lehman’s, an old-time general store located in Kidron, Ohio. “Now, it feels like a question of safety, as well.”

But the good news is, there are American-made alternatives, toys that offer imagination-building activity and old-fashioned fun — without the contamination risks that have come to be associated with some foreign-made toys. “A lot of these toys are low-tech, interactive toys that really engage a child’s imagination,” Lehman-Ervin said. “And they are manufactured domestically, many by hand, making them not just toys but a piece of American heritage as well.”

Looking to fill your child’s Christmas dreams with American-made products this year? Here are some options:

Classic rag dolls — "What toy is more American than a hand-made rag doll?" Lehman-Ervin says. Illustrator and author Johnny Gruelle created the most famous rag doll, Raggedy Ann, for his daughter in 1915, and Raggedy Ann’s brother, Andy, came along in 1918. Mothers have handstitched the dolls for decades, and mass marketing of the characters hasn’t changed the fact that the most popular versions are still handmade. Lehman’s offers Ann and Andy rag dolls that are still handmade by a real mother, who stitches them the old-fashioned way.
Wood is welcome — From yo-yos to train whistles, some of the best-loved American-made toys are made from wood. It’s possible to find wooden toys at virtually every price point that are appropriate for different age groups. Pick-up sticks, a simple, classic puzzle game can be had in an American-made version for just $9.95. Wooden whistles cost even less, while Amish-made toy trains and wood and metal wagons range higher.
Moving American-style — The bicycle may have been invented abroad, but American kids cemented the bike’s position as a classic toy in the 1950s and â€˜60s. Bikes today are a multi-million-dollar industry, with some top line names being designed and built overseas. But it is still possible to find bikes and tricycles made domestically. Check out www.lehmans.com for “The Best Tricycle Ever.”
Metal means fun — From Slinkies to devilishly simple-seeming puzzle games, metal toys have a long tradition as favorites in Christmas stockings. While modern Slinkies are made from plastic, a limited collectors’ edition metal Slinky is still made. And, ironically, many so-called Chinese puzzles – in which a child has to unlock intricately interwoven metal pieces — are actually made in the Unites States.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Nintendo reveals holiday game lineup

Blast Magazine Newsroom — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 18:51:49 +0000

Nintendo announced today its video game lineup through the 2007 holiday season.

“Wii and Nintendo DS continue to appeal to every kind of consumer,” Nintendo said in a statement today. “As Nintendo’s list of upcoming games demonstrates, Nintendo has a game or experience for everyone, no matter their taste, age or video game playing acumen.”

Wii games are heading up the holiday lineup. Super Mario Galaxy is at the top of the list as the Wii begins to expand its title selection. Nintendo says Wii is adding games faster than any other system in the current generation. They’re also using DS titles like Flash Focus and Master of Illusion to make consumers look at video games in a whole new way.

“Because of Wii and Nintendo DS momentum, third-party publishers are supporting our systems like never before,” said George Harrison, Nintendo of America’s senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. “Their lineup of diverse games is testament to how we make the population of gamers a little bigger every day.”

By the end of 2007, Nintendo expects there to be more than 140 Wii titles and 200 Virtual Console titles. They also expect the DS library to be up to 450.

Here’s the list for both platforms. Game titles and launch dates are subject to change.

Wii
Oct. 1: MLB Power Pros from 2K Sports
Oct. 1: Dragon Blade: Wrath of Fire from D3Publisher of America
Oct. 2: Crash of the Titans from Sierra Entertainment, Inc.
Oct. 5: Balls of Fury from DSI Games
Oct. 8: Donkey Kong: Barrel Blast from Nintendo
Oct. 9: FIFA 08 from Electronic Arts
Oct. 9: Bleach: Shattered Blade from SEGA
Oct. 9: Looney Tunes Acme Arsenal from WB Games
Oct. 10: Arctic Tale from DSI Games
Oct. 15: Sea Monsters from DSI Games
Oct. 16: Thrillville: Off the Rails from LucasArts
Oct. 22: EA Playground from Electronic Arts
Oct. 23: Backyard Football from Atari, Inc.
Oct. 23: The Sims 2 Castaway from Electronic Arts
Oct. 23: Rockstar Games Presents Table Tennis from Rockstar Games
Oct. 23: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night from Sierra Entertainment, Inc.
Oct. 23: NARUTO: Clash of Ninja Revolution from TOMY Corporation
Oct. 25: M&M’S Kart Racing from DSI Games
Oct. 28: Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock from Activision
Oct. 29: Battalion Wars 2 from Nintendo
Oct. 30: Ben 10: Protector of Earth from D3Publisher of America
Oct. 30: Showtime Championship Boxing from DSI Games
Oct. 30: Need for Speed Prostreet from Electronic Arts
Oct. 30: The Simpsons from Electronic Arts
Oct. 31: Manhunt 2 from Rockstar Games
October: Spider-Man: Friend or Foe from Activision
October: Bee Movie Game from Activision
October: Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground from Activision
October: Ultimate Duck Hunting from Detn8 Games Ltd.
October: Mercury Meltdown Revolution from Ignition Entertainment
October: Namco Museum Remix from NAMCO BANDAI Games America
October: Code Lyoko: Quest for Infinity from The Game Factory
October: Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Burning Earth from THQ
October: Bratz: The Movie from THQ
October: Cars: Mater-National from THQ
October: Nicktoons: Attack of the Toybots from THQ
October: SpongeBob’s Atlantis SquarePantis from THQ
Nov. 5: Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn from Nintendo
Nov. 6: DanceDanceRevolution Hottest Party from Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.
Nov. 6: Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga from LucasArts
Nov. 6: Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games from SEGA
Nov. 12: Super Mario Galaxy from Nintendo
Nov. 13: Dragon Ball Z Budokai Tenkaichi 3 from Atari, Inc.
Nov. 13: Godzilla Unleashed from Atari, Inc.
Nov. 13: Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary from Eidos, Inc.
Nov. 13: Blocks from Electronic Arts
Nov. 13: Medal of Honor Heroes 2 from Electronic Arts
Nov. 13: Luxor: Pharaoh’s Challenge from MumboJumbo
Nov. 13: Geometry Wars: Galaxies from Sierra Entertainment, Inc.
Nov. 19: Link’s Crossbow Training (packaged with Wii Zapper) from Nintendo
Nov. 19: Smarty Pants from Electronic Arts
Nov. 20: Jenga World Tour from Atari, Inc.
Nov. 20: Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords from D3Publisher of America
November: Trauma Center: New Blood from Atlus USA
November: Star Trek: Conquest from Bethesda Softworks
November: Disney Princess: Enchanted Journey from Disney Interactive Studios
November: Hannah Montana: Spotlight World Tour from Disney Interactive Studios
November: High School Musical: Sing It from Disney Interactive Studios
November: Garfield Gets Real from DSI Games
November: Furu Furu Park from Majesco Entertainment
November: AMF Bowling: Pinbusters! from Mud Duck Games
November: Ghost Squad from SEGA
November: WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 from THQ
November: Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30 from Ubisoft
November: CSI: Hard Evidence from Ubisoft
November: My Word Coach from Ubisoft
November: Petz: Catz 2 (name not final) from Ubisoft
November: Petz: Dogz 2 (name not final) from Ubisoft
November: Petz: Horsez 2 (name not final) from Ubisoft
November: Rayman Raving Rabbids 2 from Ubisoft
Dec. 4: Alvin and the Chipmunks from Brash Entertainment
Dec. 4: The Golden Compass from SEGA
December: MX vs. ATV Untamed from THQ
December: Super Swing Golf Season 2 from Tecmo, Inc.
December: Rygar: The Battle of Argus from Tecmo, Inc.
December: Cranium: Kabookii from Ubisoft
December: Nitrobike from Ubisoft
Holiday 2007: NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams from SEGA
Winter ’07: SoulCalibur Legends from NAMCO BANDAI Games America
Jan. 21: Endless Ocean from Nintendo
Feb. 10: Super Smash Bros. Brawl from Nintendo
Feb. 15: Yamaha Supercross from DSI Games
Feb. 19: Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity from SEGA
February: No More Heroes from Ubisoft
February: Wild Petz Tigerz from Ubisoft
March: Obscure: The Aftermath from Ignition Entertainment
Q1: LUXOR 3 from MumboJumbo
Q1: One Piece: Unlimited Adventure from NAMCO BANDAI Games America
Spring ’08: Mario Kart Wii (name not final) from Nintendo

Nintendo DS
Oct. l: The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass from Nintendo
Oct. 2: Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol from Nintendo
Oct. 2: Backyard Hockey 2008 from Atari, Inc.
Oct. 2: Holly Hobbie & Friends from Majesco Entertainment
Oct. 2: Crash of the Titans from Sierra Entertainment, Inc.
Oct. 2: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night from Sierra Entertainment, Inc.
Oct. 9: FIFA 08 from Electronic Arts
Oct. 9: Flipper Critters from Ignition Entertainment
Oct. 9: Bleach: the Blade of Fate from SEGA
Oct. 9: Looney Tunes: Duck Amuck from WB Games
Oct. 15: Flash Focus: Vision Training in Minutes a Day from Nintendo
Oct. 15: The Aly & AJ Adventure from DSI Games
Oct. 16: Cheetah Girls: Pop Star Sensations from Disney Interactive Studios
Oct. 16: Thrillville: Off the Rails from LucasArts
Oct. 16: Fish Tycoon from Majesco Entertainment
Oct. 16: Super Collapse! 3 from MumboJumbo
Oct. 17: Prism from Secret Stash Games
Oct. 19: Betty Boop’s “Double Shift” from DSI Games
Oct. 22: EA Playground from Electronic Arts
Oct. 23: The Sims 2 Castaway from Electronic Arts
Oct. 23: Rhythm ‘n Notes: Improve Your Music Skill from AGETEC
Oct. 23: Backyard Football 2008 from Atari, Inc.
Oct. 23: Napoleon Dynamite from Crave Entertainment
Oct. 23: Ed, Edd n Eddy: Scam of the Century from D3Publisher of America
Oct. 23: Hannah Montana: Music Jam from Disney Interactive Studios
Oct. 23: Disney Princess: Magical Jewels from Disney Interactive Studios
Oct. 23: Power Rangers: Super Legends from Disney Interactive Studios
Oct. 23: Zoo Hospital from Majesco Entertainment
Oct. 23: Front Mission from Square Enix, Inc.
Oct. 23: Naruto: Path of the Ninja from TOMY Corporation
Oct. 25: Sea Monsters from DSI Games
Oct. 25: Arctic Tale from DSI Games
Oct. 30: Ben 10: Protector of Earth from D3Publisher of America
Oct. 30: Suite Life: Circle of Spies from Disney Interactive Studios
Oct. 30: Dr. Seuss: How the Grinch Stole Christmas from DSI Games
Oct. 30: Need for Speed Prostreet from Electronic Arts
Oct. 30: The Simpsons from Electronic Arts
Oct. 30: Puzzle de Harvest Moon from Natsume Inc.
Oct. 31: Dementium: The Ward from Gamecock Media Group
Oct. 31: Solitaire Overload from Telegames, Inc.
October: Spider-Man: Friend or Foe from Activision
October: Bee Movie Game from Activision
October: Shrek: Ogres and Dronkeys from Activision
October: Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground from Activision
October: Touch Detective 21/2 from Atlus USA
October: Animal Genius from Scholastic
October: Build-A-Bear Workshop from The Game Factory
October: Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Burning Earth from THQ
October: Cars: Mater-National from THQ
October: El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera from THQ
October: Nicktoons: Attack of the Toybots from THQ
October: Ratatouille Food Frenzy from THQ
October: SpongeBob’s Atlantis SquarePantis from THQ
October: Chessmaster: The Art of Learning from Ubisoft
October: Imagine: Babyz from Ubisoft
October: Imagine: Fashion Designer from Ubisost
October: Imagine: Master Chef from Ubisoft
October: Imagine: Animal Doctor from Ubisoft
October: Wild Petz Dolphinz from Ubisoft
Nov. 6: Dora the Explorer: Dora Saves the Mermaids from 2K Play
Nov. 6: Go Diego Go: Safari Adventure from 2K Play
Nov. 6: Baby Pals from Crave Entertainment
Nov. 6: Horse Life from D3Publisher of America
Nov. 6: Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga from LucasArts
Nov. 6: Chicken Hunter from MumboJumbo
Nov. 6: Dragon Quest MOnsters: Joker from Square Enix, Inc.
Nov. 10: Showtime Championship Boxing from DSI Games
Nov. 13: Enchanted from Disney Interactive Studios
Nov. 13: Boogie from Electronic Arts
Nov. 13: Orcs & Elves from Electronic Arts
Nov. 13: Cooking Mama 2: Dinner with Friends from Majesco Entertainment
Nov. 13: Geometry Wars: Galaxies from Sierra Entertainment, Inc.
Nov. 19: Mario Party DS from Nintendo
Nov. 20: Godzilla Unleashed Double Smash from Atari, Inc.
Nov. 20: Jenga World Tour from Atari, Inc.
Nov. 20: LUXOR: Pharaoh’s Challenge from MumboJumbo
Nov. 20: FINAL FANTASY XII: REVENANT WINGS from Square Enix, Inc.
Nov. 26: Master of Illusion from Nintendo
November: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare from Activision
November: Ontamarama from Atlus USA
November: Draglade from Atlus USA
November: Elf Bowling Collector’s Edition from Detn8 Games Ltd.
November: Garfield Gets Real from DSI Games
November: Clue/Mouse Trap/Perfection/Aggravation from DSI Games
November: Contra 4 from Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.
November: Yu-Gi-Oh! World Championship 2008 from Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc
November: Strawberry Shortcake: The Four Seasons Cake from The Game Factory
November: Bratz Super Babyz from THQ
November: Bratz: 4 Real from THQ
November: Warhammer 40,000: Squad Command from THQ
November: WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 from THQ
November: Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword from Tecmo, Inc.
November: My French Coach from Ubisoft
November: My Spanish Coach from Ubisoft
November: My Word Coach from Ubisoft
November: Petz: Catz 2 (working title) from Ubisoft
November: Petz: Dogz 2 (working title) from Ubisoft
November: Petz: Hamsterz Life 2 from Ubisoft
November: Petz: Horsez 2 from Ubisoft
November: Rayman Raving Rabbids 2 from Ubisoft
Dec. 4: Alvin and the Chipmunks from Brash Entertainment
Dec. 4: The Golden Compass from SEGA
Dec. 10: RIP: Death Volunteers from Telegames, Inc.
December: Diary Girl from Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.
Jan. 15: Barnyard Blast from DSI Games
Jan. 21: Advance Wars: Days of Ruin from Nintendo
Jan. 25: M&M’S Kart Racing from DSI Games
Jan. 31: Command & Destroy from DSI Games
January: Miami Nights from Ubisoft
Feb. 4: Professor Layton and the Curious Village from Nintendo
Feb. 12: New Zealand Story Revolution from Ignition Entertainment
Feb. 15: Yamaha Supercross from DSI Games
Feb. 19: Mystery Dungeon: Shiren the Wanderer from SEGA
Feb. 26: Bubble Bobble Double Shot from Ignition Entertainment
February: Imagine: Figure Skater from Ubisoft
February: Wild Petz Tigerz from Ubisoft
February: Assassin’s Creed from Ubisoft
March 4: Disney Friends from Disney Interactive Studios
March 29: Ultimate Card Games from Telegames, Inc.
March: Insecticide from Gamecock Media Group
March: My Life Coach from Ubisoft
Q1: Eco Creatures: Save the Forest from Majesco Entertainment
Q1: Polar Bowling from MumboJumbo
Q1: Slingo Quest from MumboJumbo
Q1: Tropix from MumboJumbo
Q1: Polar Golf from MumboJumbo
Q1: River King: Mystic Valley from Natsume Inc.
Q1: Harvest Moon DS Cute from Natsume Inc.
Q1: Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games from SEGA