WHAT'S HOT DURING THE HOLIDAY TIME OF THE YEAR?

     Today's USA TODAY reports that mountain bikes, in-line
skates, and camping equipment are the hot gifts at the sporting
goods departments this season.  Mike May of the Sporting Goods
Manufacturers Association said the dominant theme is "anything
connected with outdoor adventure sports."  Chris Widmaier of NFL
Properties said the "throwback" uniforms have increased the sale
of NFL jerseys 75% from last year (Valerie Lister, USA TODAY,
12/19)....Another best seller during the holiday season has been
1994 World Series baseballs from Rawlings.  The company decided
to sell the commemorative ball, despite objections from MLB
Properties  (WASHINGTON POST, 12/17)....About 1 of every 6 people
who bought a personalized license plate in Ontario over the past
few months went with a graphic featuring either the Maple Leafs
or the Blue Jays.  The team logos are displayed on the left side
of the plate (TORONTO STAR, 12/17).