The James Logan Courier

By Billy O'Keefe
McClatchy-Tribune News Service (MCT)

GOD OF WAR II
For: Playstation 2
From: Sony
ESRB Rating: Mature (blood and gore, intense violence, nudity, sexual themes, strong language)

Any fears of a sophomore slump from the PS2's best action game dissipate in ... oh, two minutes, maybe? Yes, "God of War II" has quite an act to follow — and what better way to do so than by kicking things off with a boss fight?

The opening encounter — the plot details of which won't be spoiled here — pits you against hundreds of normal-sized enemies and one ridiculously huge boss enemy. It takes place in three separate areas, including the boss' burning innards. And when it's over, nearly 90 minutes later, you'll have witnessed an opening throwdown that puts most games' final levels to shame.

By Iona Childers and Jacqueline Truong, Courier Staff Writers

The Powder Puff preview half-time show, during fourth and fifth period rallies, was some show

The Junior cheerleaders were bedecked in short skirts, pink-imprinted shirts, different colored wigs (we spotted one pink wig with a 60s bob style and five blondes) and about a quarter pound of makeup each. Not only did these Junior 'gals' look the part, but they also showed that they could 'shake what their mommas gave them' to the fullest! Their intro song was none other than "Fergalicious" by former Black Eyed Peas member, Fergie. The crowd responded with many excited screams as they continued their routine with other current hits like Justin Timberlake's "Sexyback" and the Pussycat Dolls' song "Buttons". Their closing formation included their very own three level pyramid.

Watch video of the Junior cheerleaders' Powder Puff Rally performance, free via YouTube.

Watch video of the Senior cheerleaders' Powder Puff Rally performance, free via Youtube.