Herzing University-Madison students, faculty and other local game development enthusiasts will compete to create the best game for computer, tablet or cell phone use against participants in hundreds of local teams across dozens of countries. The Global Game Jam 2012 Event started on Friday, Jan. 27 and runs through Sunday at Herzing University at 5218 E. Terrace Dr.

In 2011, teams in 44 countries created over 1,500 games in one weekend.

Global Game Jam 2012 gives aspiring game developers, such as Herzing students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree in Game Development program.

The game development industry is growing rapidly with global industry sales for console games predicted to grow to $34.7 billion this year and U.S. sales of all types of video and computer games expected to reach $11.7 billion in 2012, officiails said.

To help local families stay warm on snowy winter nights, St. Vincent de Paul is holding its 20th annual Recycle the Warmth drive from Jan. 27 to Jan. 29.

Organizers are looking for new or gently used blankets and bedding that can be given to Madison residents struggling with poverty.

"We'll find folks who have nothing, and sometimes nothing means no bed and it means that a child in the family has a parka to pull over themselves at night instead of a blanket," said Ernie Stetenfeld, St. Vincent de Paul’s spokesman.

Donations can be dropped off at ShopKo stores, St. Vincent de Paul thrift stores and area churches. Many church congregations are also accepting these donations.

For a complete list of drop-off sites visit:

http://www.svdpmadison.org/recyclewarmth.html

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ScooterCabs, a local business created by three University of Wisconsin-Madison grads, aims to provide an affordable alternative to taking a taxi home or driving under the influence. 

The service was created as an extra option for patrons that drive out to a bar or restaurant and have a few too many drinks.  The concept is similar to a taxi, except for one fundamental difference; the taxi is now the patron’s own vehicle.  There is no longer a need for patrons to abandon their vehicle at the bar or restaurant to make it home safely.

"With Wisconsin’s high rates of drunk driving, Madison seemed to have a need for this type of service," said owner Justin Sisley, "but even for the majority of people who would make the responsible decision to call a cab, our service provides a much more convenient option for them.  No more waiting around for a friend or cab to take you back to your car in the morning."