What Men Want

The men in your life will know you have a knack for gift giving if you match the present to the man.

For the do-it-yourselfers on your list, there is no better gift than tools. Northern Tool + Equipment (www.northerntool.com), a supplier of high-quality tools and equipment for almost 30 years, offers a complete Northern Industrial carbon steel 123-piece tool set that includes any tool needed to fix something around the house, including drive sockets, ratchet-handle screwdrivers, wrenches, bits, pliers, hex keys, knife, hacksaw, hammer and more-all in a sturdy toolbox.

If your man needs serious power, Northern Tool also offers its exclusive Powerhorse Gas-Powered Pressure Washer, which is sure to make any tool man envious. With 3,500 PSI (pounds per square inch), this pressure washer has the power and durability to clear the dirt off any surface.

Rugged outdoorsmen can't go wrong with a Bob-A-Que Portable Outdoor Grill from Kotula's (www.kotulas.com), a one-stop online store for guys' gifts that provides free shipping. Whether you are camping, hunting, fishing or even tailgating, the 360-degree, pivoting Bob-A-Que Outdoor Grill lets you safely cook over a campfire, outdoor propane tank or existing outdoor grill.

For tailgaters, Kotula's also offers the ultimate man's cooler. The Aluminum Diamond Plate Ice Chest and Cooler is as rugged as a truck box but lightweight enough to take anywhere.

Toys for Boys

Give your youngster some oldschool fun and a thrill this holiday season with a winter sled. Build your own or order one of the fun-filled sledding options at Kotula's, such as its Classic Wood Toboggan or the Ultimate Flyer Sled.

Get your kids excited about using tools with a large, sturdy, play tool bench from Northern Tool. The 38-piece Deluxe Workbench is 33 inches tall and has drawers and shelves with doors to store the 37 included accessories, including a toy drill.

Junior handymen may also enjoy the Black & Decker Junior Tool Set from Northern Tool, which lets kids learn how to use hand tools. It includes a play hammer, screwdriver, screws, nuts and bolts, plus two pieces of "wood." More tools for little hands can be found in the Kettler CAT Tool Belt and Tools that includes a tool belt pouch, hammer, pliers, screwdriver and wrench.

Learn More

You can find more than 20,000 great gift ideas at Northern Tool + Equipment, www.northerntool.com or (800) 533-5545; and Kotula's, www.kotulas.com or (800) 685-4845.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12022009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62912.html (NAPSI)-More than 16.6 billion cards, letters and packages will likely be delivered this holiday season, and many will carry a unique message: "Season's Greenings." That's because there are plenty of ways to green up your holiday mailings. For instance:

Green Postage

You might be surprised at just how green holiday postage stamps have become. Stamps, stamped envelopes and stamped postal cards are now printed using water-based inks made from soybeans and contain no lead.

Green Packaging

Those looking for a greener way to ship something might take a quick trip to the post office. The U.S. Postal Service has been recognized with Cradle to Cradle certification for the environmentally friendly design and manufacturing of Priority Mail and Express Mail boxes and envelopes. The packages are 100 percent recyclable and free. You can pick them up at the post office or order them online at usps.com and have them delivered to your door without charge.

Green Shipping

Using usps.com to purchase postage and print address labels saves time and fuel. You can also use the site to request free package pickup.

Green Delivery

With 195,000 vehicles, the Postal Service operates the largest fleet of delivery vehicles in the U.S. and has the largest fleet of alternate-fuel vehicles in the world. In certain parts of the country, three-wheeled electric vehicles deliver mail with zero gas emissions and at a cost of only 4 cents a mile. Of course, there's also the service's "fleet of feet," with more than 10,000 letter carriers delivering on foot.

Recycling

Secure recycle bins in post office lobbies make it easy for customers to recycle mail after reading during the holidays and every day. With a motto of "Read, Respond, Recycle," the mail recycling program is available at 6,000 postal facilities across the country.

For more tips and information, visit www.usps.com.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12022009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62910.html (NAPSI)-Today's top video games aren't just scoring points with kids, they are also a big hit with other members of the American family.

According to the Entertainment Software Association, 50 percent of all American moms and dads now play video games with their children. Additionally, games in the "family entertainment" category were the most popular segment of last year's video game market--and with good reason.

Playing these games can be a great way for families to spend time together, but the most advanced gaming systems also provide a variety of other options for parents and children to enjoy. For instance, the PlayStation 3 (PS3) computer entertainment system can serve as the digital hub of the family living room. In addition to playing games, the PS3 doubles as a Blu-ray player, provides HDMI output and 1080p resolution, has an integrated Wi-Fi and Internet connection and has plenty of storage for music and pictures. Here's a closer look:

Moms, Movies And Memories

The PlayStation 3 system has 120GB of memory, so there's plenty of space for mom to store music or digital photos, which can be shared or displayed on the family's high-def TV. And if she's a film buff, mom can connect to the PlayStation Network for online access to a huge library of downloadable movies, as well as television shows, original programming and games.

Dads, Discs And Dollars

The PS3 is now slimmer, lighter and consumes less power than previous models, so budget-conscious dads can take their mind off the energy bill as they watch a movie on the system's Blu-ray player or immerse themselves in a game of the action-adventure hit "Uncharted 2: Among Thieves."

Girls Rule

Girls can sing their way to the top of the charts with "SingStar Queen." The game features more than 20 tracks from the popular pop-rock group, and kids can download over 700 additional songs from artists including Pink, Kelly Clarkson and MGMT. Aspiring pop stars can even record their performances using the PlayStation Eye camera and upload them to MySingStarOnline for other players to view and vote on.

Fun Toys For Boys

Odds are, the boys in the house will be happy to play some of the system's top games, including "LittleBigPlanet," the community-based video game that allows players to create and share their game-play experience with other users through the PlayStation Network. There's also "Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time," the latest installment of the best-selling series that transports you into an animated world similar to that of a computer-generated Saturday morning cartoon.

Everyone Together Now

If you want to get the whole family together, there are plenty of movies and television shows to download through the PlayStation Network. But, there's also "BUZZ! Quiz World," which provides a glitzy quiz show experience, putting each family member in the contestants' seats of a virtual TV-studio setting. With over 5,000 new questions, family game night is redefined with this addictive trivia experience that the whole family can enjoy.

For more information, visit www.playstation.com.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12022009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62901.html (NAPSI)-You may already be feeling it--that perennial "urge to splurge" that strikes just as the holiday catalogs hit mailboxes and in-store Santas appear. This year, though, that urge will be sorely tested: On the one hand, 65 percent of consumers say the economy will affect their holiday plans, according to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation, with 84 percent of them planning to spend less.

On the other hand, who wants to disappoint those on your holiday list? While it's unrealistic to cut spending completely, the gloomy forecast simply means you need to shop smarter. Here are several ways to approach this holiday season without burning up your bank account:

Think Like a Retailer: Stores are hoping to avoid a repeat of last year's holiday fire-sale prices, and the National Retail Federation anticipates that "many sales may only be offered to a retailer's most loyal customers." That means if you haven't done so already, sign up for e-mails from your favorite stores to be alerted to special discounts. Keep in mind that most retailers have lowered their inventories by an average of 10 percent from 2008, according to recent Standard & Poor information.

Plan Ahead: Drafting a list of who you're shopping for will keep you focused and on budget. Using the Internet to research gift ideas and compare costs is a great way to prepare before hitting the stores. And when you head out to shop, have your list handy so you stay on track.

The Mighty Widget: Some of the best deals can be unearthed without waiting for a discount e-mail to arrive in your inbox. By placing one of these store icons on your computer desktop or embedding it on your personalized home page--widgets are downloadable from many retailers' Web sites--one click gives you access to all the specials.

Consider Gift Cards: Gift cards can be an ideal, stress-free solution to getting that perfect gift that recipients really want, and because you set the value upfront, they also help keep you from going over budget. In fact, 79 percent of shoppers intend to buy gift cards this holiday season, according to a study conducted by the consulting firm Accenture. But not all cards are created equal. Be sure to choose one like the American Express Gift Card (www.americanexpress.com/gift), which has no monthly fees, no expiration of funds, and can be used everywhere instead of just one specific store.

Season's Eatings: Unfortunately, it's impossible to buy gifts for everyone. An easy, inexpensive way to acknowledge others beyond family and close friends is by baking a large batch of cookies and gifting small, wrapped portions to acquaintances, co-workers and neighbors.

That's a Wrap: At the end of each holiday season, stock up on marked-down wrapping paper, gift bags and greeting cards for next year and put everything in a box with tape and scissors. You'll be one step--and several dollars--ahead.

"

Editor's Note: This story replaces an earlier version that should no longer be used.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12022009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62900.html (NAPSI)-Some of the best gifts this holiday season are the ones that people take personally.

That's the word from trend watchers who say affordable, customized presents that include favorite photos, messages and other personal touches can be found for most anyone on your gift list. Try these suggestions:

Make It Count

Consider making a donation to a favorite charity in your recipient's name. Many groups offer certificates of thanks to donors that can be customized with a friend's or loved one's name.

Wear It Well

Search the Web for sites that let you create customized T-shirts, sweatshirts or hats. Personalize the clothing with a funny saying or photo. You can even find sites that let you customize everyday items such as dishes, towels and even bedspreads.

Most Wonderful Time All Year

Try visiting a Web site such as www.fedex.com/gifts to design a customized wall or desktop calendar, complete with treasured photos, personal messages and more. The calendars can be a great--and sentimental--gift that keeps on giving to friends and family throughout the year.

Basket Of Fun

You might give a gift basket filled with items that reflect the personality or interests of the recipient. For instance, a dog lover may appreciate a photo book of pooches and a designer leash complete with Fido's name embroidered down the side.

Fun Memories

Scrapbooks can be an inexpensive and simple way to show someone you care. Fill a scrapbook with memories of times past but also symbols of future fun, such as pictures of palm trees to symbolize a vacation, or photos of bridal gowns if there's a wedding in the future.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12022009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62888.html (NAPSI)-Spending time with certain family members during the holidays can occasionally bring out the fighter in all of us--and that might be a good thing if you're playing some of the season's hottest new fighting games.

Games can be a fun way to reduce holiday stress as they let mom, dad and kids virtually duke it out in fighting games appropriate for players of all ages. A handful of exciting games from Capcom are quickly becoming family and fighting game fan favorites, and are also among the season's most popular holiday gifts. Here's a look at some of the best:

The Future Fight

Families can battle the holiday doldrums with a new sci-fi videogame thrill ride called "Spyborgs," developed exclusively for Wii. Combining an extraordinary futuristic world with action-packed, two-player controls, "Spyborgs" lets gamers assume the role of cybernetically enhanced superheroes who are betrayed by one of their own. Players must work together through two-player co-op to defeat this traitor through more than 35 stages of mind-blowing challenges, packed with epic battles and swarms of enemies that only two can defeat. The two-player co-op feature in "Spyborgs" also emphasizes teamwork to find solutions together to defeat evildoers.

An Arcade Classic

The legendary fighting series, "Street Fighter," is back with "Street Fighter IV: Platinum Edition." The game, which has already sold over 1.5 million copies, will let parents who grew up playing the arcade classic share the action-packed fun with their kids for under $30. "Street Fighter IV" offers hours of fighting action and lets players control their favorite classic characters, including Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li and Guile, along with a group of new fighters. Gamers can use special moves and visit amazing locations as they wax nostalgic over the virtual martial arts title--or introduce it to a whole new generation of players.

A Matter Of Fate

A new portable game lets families do battle at the airport, in the car or virtually anywhere else their holiday travels take them. Called "Fate/Unlimited Codes," it challenges players to assume the part of warriors clashing in a battle royal for the Holy Grail. Available as a downloadable game for the PlayStation Portable system, the game offers fast-paced, weapons-based fighting that can be wirelessly shared with family or friends. Based on the popular Japanese visual novel "Fate/Stay Night," it features a deep roster of characters and unique fighting moves.

For more information, visit www.capcom.com.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12022009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62863.html (NAPSI)-Holiday sales are expected to top $437 billion this season, according to the National Retail Federation. But if you're looking for ways to cut back on spending, you're not alone.

Visiting your local discount store for holiday shopping will save you cash and time. Many stores offer a variety of affordable holiday necessities--including dinnerware, housewares, decor and hostess gifts that can help you stay within budget. Try these money-saving tips:

Make A List

Think of a shopping list as a plan of action to get in and out of the store as quickly and as efficiently as possible. Be prepared with a detailed shopping list for holiday gifting needs or for planning a dinner party. You can also try online list-creation tools that allow you to create, manage and update gift and personal shopping lists.

Get Ready

Stock up on essentials early to avoid costly last-minute trips to the grocery store. The Archer Farms collection at Target offers a wide variety of snacks and appetizers that are quick and delicious. Be certain that your guest room and living areas are spotless. The store's up & up collection includes cleaning supplies to help you get ready.

Build Traditions

Make decorating your home an annual tradition while also creating special memories. The Marcel Wanders for Target holiday collection features attention-grabbing, decorative pieces at affordable prices, including ceramic vases, stockings and ornaments, as well as dinnerware for holiday parties. Combine the collection with festive tablecloths and napkins to transform your dinner table into a scene right out of a magazine.

Perfect Presents

Consider keeping extra gifts on hand for any last-minute gifting or for that special hostess. Items such as a boxed wine, like Wine Cube, sweet-smelling candles and colorful beauty gift sets are great giftable options, all for under $20.

For more information on all these holiday products, visit your local Target store or go to www.target.com.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12022009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62834.html (NAPSI)-This holiday season, families are celebrating by adding affordable and fun new traditions to the ones they've always held dear. Try these ideas:

• Take a tour of neighborhood Christmas lights.
• Try a new recipe at your holiday dinner.
• Give to a different or--even better--additional charity.

You could also invite an adorable elf into your home to help Santa keep an eye on things. "The Elf on the Shelf" includes a charming book and an 8-inch pixie elf that perches somewhere in your home to watch over children's behavior. As the story goes, the elf flies to the North Pole to report to Santa each night and then returns to a different vantage point from which to view the next day's activities. Children can have great fun discovering the elf's new resting spot each morning.

There are also two "Plushee Pal" versions of the pixie elf that children can play with all year long, helping the tradition last past the season.

More information, games and stories can be found at www.elfontheshelf.com.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12032009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62825.html (NAPSI)-Quality family time is more important than ever, and with the approach of the holidays, many of us are eager to celebrate with our loved ones. End the year memorably by dusting off some tried-and-true traditions and mixing it up with fresh, budget-friendly festivities.

With the average price of a movie ticket inching closer and closer to $8, a night at the movies with the whole family in tow can cost upwards of $50 before you even get popcorn and candy. Instead, have your guests bring over their stashes of classic board games and make sure to stock up on family-friendly video games, too. "Deca Sports 2," a sports compilation title from Hudson Entertainment, is sure to become a classic for the Nintendo Wii. Families can face off as they check, dodge and smash the competition across all the included events: Ice Hockey, Dodge Ball, Tennis, Darts, Speed Skating, Mogul Skiing, Road Racing and Synchronized Swimming. It even features Petanque--a game similar to boccie ball--and Kendo, a form of Japanese martial arts.

"Deca Sports 2" also lets gamers use their Nintendo Wi-Fi connection to remotely challenge opponents across the country. It's a fun way to bond with relatives and friends who may not be able to travel this year. The game retails for a value-conscious $29.99 and can redeem many a snowy or rainy day year-round.

"Deca Sports 2," rated "E" by the ESRB, is the perfect stocking stuffer and family game this holiday season. You can find more information at www.decasports2.com.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12032009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62798.html (NAPSI)-The most memorable gifts are often the ones that focus on meaning.

According to a recent Consumer Reports Holiday Shopping Poll, nearly one-fifth (19 percent) of consumers planned on returning some of the gifts they received. Instead of a gift that may wind up being returned, try giving something that is memorable. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Give the gift of time--Time is one of the most precious gifts you can give to someone. Offer to help a friend or family member with housework or with a task that's hard to find the time for. Volunteer to babysit or weed the garden. Or invite them to a home-cooked dinner made by you--the thought and time you put into the meal and details will make a memory that will be guaranteed to last all year round.
• Ditch the gift card--According to a recent Deloitte survey, nearly half (47 percent) of consumers have an average of six unused gift cards laying around. Whether they got lost in the back of a wallet or just simply go unused, gift cards aren't always the best answer for the hard-to-please person on your list. Take the time to pick out a tangible gift to ensure it won't be fast forgotten.
• Make a memory, give a memory--The holiday season also marks the end of a year's worth of great memories. Help family and friends treasure favorite moments from the past year by creating a personalized desktop calendar or flip book from an online photo site such as Snapfish.com. Available in a variety of colors, layouts and sizes, the photo gifts are easily customizable with favorite photos and original text, so you can create a one-of-a-kind gift that can stay on display year-round.
• Pay it forward--The holiday season can be a great time to give to those who are less fortunate. Surprise loved ones with a meaningful donation in their name to a local food bank or a donation of products to a charity like Toys for Tots or Meals on Wheels. Get even more creative with a gift that's beautiful to look at and also gives back.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation of America has partnered with online photo site Snapfish.com to create a Make-A-Wish custom cover photo book that can be personalized with your own photos. Thirty percent of all proceeds from the sales of the books will go directly to Make-A-Wish.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12032009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62789.html

(NAPSI)-The trend this year is to spend less but get more. According to the National Retail Federation, consumers are expected to spend 3.2 percent less on holiday shopping this season. Fortunately, you don't have to sacrifice quality to save on cost when you shop at off-price retailers like Marshalls and T.J. Maxx.

Many department and discount stores are planning to lower inventory these days, while off-price buyers will receive more than 10,000 new gifts and merchandise items right through Christmas. Marshalls and T.J. Maxx offer amazing savings on must-have fashion items, trendy accessories, holiday home decor and even the most sought-after toys.

Here are some ideas for how to make this holiday season special:

Make Someone Happy

For grown-ups, this could be a great time to fill a stocking with items you know they really need. Replace his razor with a top-of-the-line electric one or update her worn gloves with a new, longer pair in a jewel-tone color with ruffles.

Hot Looks For Cold Weather

Transform any look for winter with a chunky cable-knit or red cashmere sweater for a pop of color. Pair designer denim with suede ankle booties or a statement necklace for a bold look. For a funky look, try a bomber jacket over a sparkly knit dress and colorful tights. Update last year's coat by adding a ruffled, plaid scarf and a fringed handbag.

Time To Celebrate

Stock up on barware and other fun party pieces including decorative cocktail plates, stainless steel shakers and new glassware. Wow by serving gourmet chocolates or a new recipe you found in that cookbook! Board games and puzzles can add a fun and unexpected element to a party.

For Your Youngsters

Off-price retailers have a selection of brand-name toys for half the price of most toy stores--they'll love Transformers, Barbie or My Little Pony.

Find a better way to Christmas shop at Marshalls and T.J. Maxx. To learn more, call (800) MARSHALLS and (800) 2TJMAXX or visit www.marshallsonline.com and www.tjmaxx.com.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12032009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62779.html (NAPSI)-This year, many families are searching for creative ways to entertain at home without breaking the bank. According to lifestyle expert Savvy Mommy® Victoria Pericon, with some careful planning and preparation, celebrating the holidays on a budget can be just as memorable as a more elaborate affair.

"During the hectic holiday season, everyone is looking for easy ways to bring more fun time into their homes and keep the whole family entertained," says Pericon. "But when watching your wallet, it's important to resist the temptation to go overboard. Instead, focus on creating experiences that foster togetherness and make memories that will last a lifetime."

Pericon, together with Microsoft, offers the following tips to maximize the family fun this season without racking up the dreaded post−New Year's debt:

Go Big--At Home

When it comes to holiday shopping, a recent survey noted that nearly half of Americans will give one large family gift this year as opposed to many smaller individual items.* According to Pericon, you'll get more bang for your buck with a gift that has something for everyone in the family, such as a new computer, TV or entertainment console. She suggests an Xbox 360, which provides the biggest and best selection of games, thousands of movies for instant high-definition (HD) streaming, access to Facebook and Twitter and everyone's favorite music on Last.fm--right from the living room. For the cost of taking a family of four out to the movies a few times, pick up the Xbox 360 Elite Holiday Bundle featuring an Xbox 360 Elite console and two free games and access to entertainment whenever you want it, all year round.

Breathe New Life Into the Party

Everyday items around the house are all you need to throw a fabulous holiday soiree. Consider hosting a white elephant gift exchange where guests gather to trade inexpensive, humorous items they have no desire to keep. Or, throw a potluck party and challenge guests to bring a dish using only the ingredients they have on hand in their kitchen. Once the party is in full swing, break out the new musical Xbox 360 games "Lips: Number One Hits" or "The Beatles™: Rock Band™." Even the most reserved guests will unleash their inner rock stars.

Create New Traditions

Coming together as a family to create lasting memories doesn't have to leave you strapped for cash. Pick a night to decorate cookies together, play cards or get a competitive game of flag football going out in the yard. After a big holiday meal, Pericon likes to settle down and watch a movie on Xbox 360 with her family. With a huge selection of instantly streaming HD movies from Netflix and Zune video, it's like having a movie theater in your home without the parking hassles, long lines or outrageous ticket prices.

Connect Without the Cost of Travel

With travel costs rising and budgets shrinking, not everyone will be able to make it home for the holidays this year. So at this year's gathering, pass around a digital camera and snap photos to share with friends and family members who couldn't be there to celebrate with you. With an Xbox LIVE Gold Membership, you can send pictures of the kids to grandma over Facebook, tweet about how Aunt Susan made her famous gingersnaps, and even arrange a Netflix Movie Party to virtually watch your favorite supported flicks with friends from afar. (A Netflix unlimited membership is also required.)

* "Microsoft Holiday Technology Omnibus." Survey. 21-24, August 2009.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12032009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62769.html (NAPSI)-Looking to add some excitement to family movie night or a game night with friends? Or maybe you need a great holiday gift idea for the film buff in your life. If so, there's a new videogame coming out this holiday season that combines both movies and trivia called "Scene It? Bright Lights! Big Screen!"

The latest offering in the popular "Scene It?" trivia game series, the game features all-new film clips and trivia content, covering recently released 2009 movies as well as fan-favorite Hollywood hits from the last four decades. The game marks the first time a "Scene It?" title is available for Wii and PlayStation 3 computer entertainment systems and marks a return for the brand to the Xbox 360.

Multiplayer mode in the game creates a challenging, lively, social game-playing experience for up to four teams. Competitors can choose from a variety of classic genre-inspired character avatars including Horror Queen, Desperado, Starlet, Leading Man or Swashbuckler. "Scene It? Bright Lights! Big Screen!" features a brand-new single-player mode not available in previous versions of "Scene It?" games. This new single-player mode is designed to challenge player speed and entertainment trivia know-how.

There are thousands of new questions, multiple play modes, unique minigame content, plus a new host character to spice things up, and they all add up to a lively group gaming experience. For gamers familiar with other trivia games on home consoles, it is worth noting that the game is compatible with multiple controllers so players will have the choice to use standard game console controllers, or to use Sony's Buzz™ Buzzers or Microsoft's Big Button controllers.

"Scene It? Bright Lights! Big Screen!" has something for every film buff and trivia enthusiast.

For more information, call (866) DVD-GAME or visit www.screenlifegames.com. Distributed by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12032009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62747.html (NAPSI)-Playing Santa on a smaller budget can be challenging, but with quality gadget gifts, you can still please everyone on your shopping list without breaking the bank.

Chances are, most of your friends and family already have the high-ticket electronics they want, such as a Nintendo Wii or DS, Xbox 360, iPhone or laptop. So help them make the most of what they have with gifts that will enhance, customize or protect their favorite tech toys.

Enhance--Broaden their gaming horizon with family-friendly fun at prices you can easily afford. They'll shred the slopes all winter long in "Shaun White Snowboarding: World Stage" ($49.99 on Wii). Shaun White has partnered with Target to offer a special-edition version of his latest video game, including exclusive behind-the-scenes Olympic training videos and in-game content. Or pick up modern classics like "Wii Sports Resort" (with Wii MotionPlus, $49.99) and "The Beatles: Rock Band" ($59.99 on Wii, PS3, Xbox 360).

Customize--Reform their tech gear with all kinds of budget-friendly personalized peripherals and stylish accessories. Help your budding rock stars show their personal style with all-new Roxy Earbuds ($19.99) and On-Ear Headphones ($69.99), both available in an assortment of cheerful colors. For the iPod or iPhone enthusiasts on your list, amplify their holiday season with audio accessories like the Skullcandy Pipe iPod Pipe Speaker Dock ($69.99)-a sleek new speaker system that sounds as good as it looks.

Protect--Keeping accessories protected is an easy, affordable way to make sure your gifts keep on giving. Even someone who has "everything" will appreciate items like protective iPhone covers from Incase ($19.99-$34.99), laptop sleeves from Isis Dei and Sumdex ($19.99-$29.99), a Hannah Montana Nintendo DS Lite Protective Case ($9.99) or Sony PlayStation Portable Travel Case ($19.99).

Save yourself a New Year's headache and stay on budget this holiday season. You don't have to sacrifice time over money either-shopping at a store like Target allows you to stock up on exceptional values in one simple trip. Remember, convenience is bliss and pleasing everyone can be affordable, so relax and get giving.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12032009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62743.html (NAPSI)-Two companies that have a long history of providing user-friendly consumer electronics to the active mature market, Consumer Cellular and Doro, have teamed up to bring two new easy-to-use cell phones, the Doro PhoneEasy® 345 bar-style phone and Doro PhoneEasy® 410 flip phone to the market.

The new cell phones, available now, are the most recent additions to Consumer Cellular's product lineup and feature enlarged buttons and easy-to-read display text. The phones are developed by Doro, a Swedish company specializing in innovative and user-friendly consumer electronics for seniors. The phone designs are based on Doro's extensive research and studies in collaboration with seniors and engineers who specialize in technology, ergonomics and physical disabilities.

"So many of today's cell phones have more features than our customers will ever use," said John Marick, president and CEO of Consumer Cellular. "We understand the difficulty in finding an easy-to-use cell phone and have partnered with Doro to provide simple, straightforward phones and calling plans that serve our mature customers. The Doro phones enable users to enjoy the convenience of cellular service without the unnecessary--and confusing--features. And equally important, these phones look great, too. Just because the phones are easier to use, consumers won't be embarrassed to use them."

Consumer Cellular has taken frustration out of the game by providing best-in-class service for its customers. It is for this reason that the company was selected as the exclusive wireless provider for AARP members.

There are no long-term contracts or early termination fees to worry about. Customers enjoy the simplicity of monthly billing with the flexibility to modify their service at any time. Affordable rates start at only $10 a month and are ideal for individuals who want all the safety and convenience cellular service has to offer without paying high rates for unused features.

Plus, the Doro PhoneEasy 345 and 410 models are less expensive--and more functional--than similar phones on the market, retailing for $40 and $50, respectively, with a $35 activation fee. Additionally, customers can add a second line for just $10 (plus the cost of the phone) and share monthly minutes.

To make it even easier, customers can also transfer an existing cell phone number. Phones are hearing-aid compatible and available with a 30-day, risk-free satisfaction guarantee. AARP members receive special discounts and an extended free trial period.

To learn more about the cell phone plans for seniors or to sign up for cellular service, visit www.ConsumerCellular.com or call (888) 437-9221.

Download article content ]]> http://www.napsnet.com/gifts/gifts_ss_12032009.html http://www.napsnet.com/articles/62595.html (NAPSI)-Knowing how to properly pack and ship baked and perishable goods will help keep all your favorite holiday treats fresh and delicious.

Here are a few tips from the pack and ship experts at FedEx to help:

• Place baked goods in a sturdy container and layer wax paper between the baked goods using crumpled paper to fill in any void spaces.
• Secure the lid of the container to the body with tape to keep it from accidentally popping off.
• Place the container in a sturdy corrugated cardboard box and use newspaper or plastic grocery bags to cushion the container tightly in place.
• Shake the box-if you can feel or hear any movement, add more cushioning.
• Freeze perishable foods completely and keep in a sealed, durable plastic container. Add dry ice to keep the food frozen during shipping. Ship the package overnight, priority or standard. If possible, let the recipients know when it will arrive.

When shipping, Ground or Home Delivery services can be sent up until Dec. 17 for delivery by Christmas. For last-minute gift givers, the final day to ship with FedEx Express is Dec. 23. For more information, visit www.fedex.com.

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