What lens should I choose for my DSLR?

I have a D3100 body. I'm uncertain whether I should buy the kit lens 18-55mm or the 55-200mm lens. Both of them have VR (should I only pick them if they have this image stabilisation?)

I take portraits/sport/wildlife and also general photos for newspapers (such as a crash/a crowd protesting/a play at the theater). I can only choose one of these lenses, or something that does not cost more than the Nikon 55-200mm.

I will buy them both till winter, but right now I need to pick one of them. I have a facebook page with pictures that I took with my powershot if you would be interested in a reference of what I usually like to shoot (they ain't too great, but I'm trying to learn) http://www.facebook.com/...3263105179

Also look at the slightly cheaper sigmas, though I'd guess Nikon would be higher quality. From your list of subjects and allowing the crop factor, the 55-200 may be the best start.

Most folk only get into wider angles after they have been practising a while (then they can't do without it!)

It al depends on you, if you buy the 18-55 lens you will be able to have nice wide angle photos but not much zoom. If you get the 55-200 you will have lots of zoom but no wide angle.