Christmas shopping in Southern Illinois booms this season
Shoppers in Southern Illinois show strong retail demand despite a weak economy and credit costs. Electronics heat up with Atari video game systems priced around 150 dollars, cartridges 20 to 40 dollars, while Strawberry Shortcake dolls and Dukes of Hazzard toys are popular with kids. Caution urged for security as holidays approach with 15 shopping days left.