Politics: The who and what of Politics

Alaska Airlines now offers in-flight entertainment straight to your device 
Alaska Airlines is upping its in-flight entertainment game. The Seattle-based company this week began rolling out a new service called Beyond Entertainment, which gives travelers flying on Alaska’s 737 aircraft access to movies, TV shows, and other content on their own WiFi-enabled devices. Once a plane reaches 10,000 feet, customers can watch the digital content on their phone, tablet, or laptop with the Gogo Video Player, which is available from the server on-board or can be downloaded prior to takeoff. Content is updated monthly and will be free until February, when Alaska will charge for premium movies and TV shows starting at $1.99. There will still be 30 hours of short videos available at no charge. Alaska noted that customers will still be able to rent a portable video player starting at $8 per flight. This FAQ provides more information on Beyond Entertainment — which will be available on almost every 737 plane by April 2015 — including Alaska’s explanation for the difference between “entertainment direct to customer devices and our current Inflight Entertainment Players”:  

Sony hackers threaten 9/11-style attacks at opening of 'The Interview' 
The hackers behind a devastating attack on Sony are threatening an "11th of September"-style attack on movie theaters showing an upcoming film that pokes fun at North Korea's communist dictatorship, prompting the movie's stars to cancel media appearances. In a message emailed to various reporters and accompanying the latest in a series of leaks that have included employee emails, health and financial information, the hackers who call themselves

"Guardians of Peace" sent a grim warning to people planning to attend screenings of "The Interview," even warning people who live near cinemas to leave home, according to a report from Variety. “Warning…We will clearly show it to you at the very time and places “The Interview” be shown, including the premiere, how bitter fate those who seek fun in terror should be doomed to,”

reads the message posted on Tuesday. “Soon all the world will see what an awful movie Sony Pictures Entertainment has made. The world will be full of fear.”

5 technologies that will make sense in 2015

 

 

New technology is a wonderful thing, but waiting to get it into your hands can be maddening. It's all very well when Nikon launches a compact camera or Sony a new version of the PSP, but take it beyond the realm of consumer hardware and that lag time can go on forever. So, while we're spending time during Future Week looking at things that have barely been thought of and things that never made it, today is the turn of the technologies still waiting for their moment in the sun. Here's our take on five that have arrived today, but will probably only have made the splash they meant to by 2015.   WiMAX  

 

What's the hold up? No product support Worth the wait? Probably The idea of WiMax has been around for so long now, that it almost feels like a backward concept. Kicking around as a telecommunications standard since 2001, Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access - as its mum might refer to it when it's done something wrong - offers excellent wireless internet connection

 

speeds as well as fantastically broad "hot-spot" coverage. The idea is that, simply speaking, WiMAX radio towers can work in two ways. The first is to offer large-scale public access with a radius of up to 30 miles to those on the go, and the second is to transfer the signal onto and back from other towers and to homes instead of having to use fibre or copper hard wired cables. It's a good idea for a number of situations, but the problems have been finalising the standards, building these towers and company's coming out with devices of a decent price point that support WiMAX too. With the launch of a couple of phones and laptops here and there, the products are starting to come and there are already sites and plans for a number of the major telecommunications companies in the US, the UK and all over the world

Livescribe 3 Smartpen The infrared camera in the tip of the Livescribe 3 smartpen captures your handwriting, storing it on the built-in memory. When it's paired with your tablet or smartphone, all your notes are synced to the Livescribe+ mobile app. Livescribe 3 smartpen uses Bluetooth Smart technology to pair with compatible mobile devices to support over 14 hours of continuous use between charges. Pairing is also made much easier – just turn on the Livescribe 3 and accept the pairing request on your mobile device with a single tap. After that, your smartpen will pair automatically each time you launch the app. The Livecribe 3 smartphone currently works with devices running iOS7 or newer; iPhone 4S or newer, iPad third generation or newer; iPad mini, iPod touch fifth generation or newer. Cost: $149             
Microsoft Surface Pro 3 The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 is a tablet that also functions like a laptop with an integrated kickstand and an optional click-in keyboard. The Surface Pro 3 has a 12" screen that provides a 2160x1440 resolution, a fourth-generation Intel Core processor (available in i3, i5 or i7), and provides up to nine hours of battery life while Web browsing. The tablet runs the Windows 8.1 operating system and is capable of running the full Microsoft Office Suite. Multitasking is also a breeze, as the tablet allows you to snap up to three apps or desktop programs side by side. Microsoft has also recently released a new docking station for the Surface Pro 3. When you pair the tablet with the docking station, it really puts Surface Pro 3 in a league of its own because it also allows this powerful tablet to replace your desktop PC. Costs: Starts at $799

Home and Garden : holiday table Decorations

Pets French Bulldog 
What They’re Like: French bulldogs are clowns disguised as lapdogs that enjoy playing with their humans. These dogs are often loyal, easygoing, sociable, and low-maintenance -- making them great apartment dogs. But they do get along better with adults than children. And they might bark like crazy when a stranger comes to the door. Because French bulldogs are indoor dogs, they usually don’t need much exercise; short walks will do the trick. Some French bulldogs are easy to train; others resist. Making training seem like a game helps. Appearance: French bulldogs are small, muscular dogs with short faces, dark eyes, and trademark “bat” ears. Their short, smooth coats come in combinations of fawn (light tan), brindle (fawn with soft stripes), and white. They top out at about 28 pounds. Grooming: French bulldogs do shed, but their smooth coats don’t require much grooming. You’ll need to clean your dog’s facial wrinkles regularly. Keep in Mind: French bulldogs sometimes snore. They can be stubborn. And they’re sensitive to extreme temperatures, which means you might need to turn on the air-conditioning in hot weather. Check with a vet about the potential for heatstroke, as well as eye and breathing problems

Business of Today Tomorrow

Z’s Greek 4026 E Indian School RdPhoenix, AZ 85073 Phone number (602) 955-7600 

 Pretty much as good as it gets for Greek food in the Valley.
I used to work at the Pita Jungle down the street from Z's. As some of you may know, Pita Jungle serves an array of "Mediterranean" food that I (and many others) pity. So, on my lunch breaks, rather than getting my employee discount at Pita Jungle, I'd drive a few block to Z's.  
First off, I love that they have drive-through. It makes things much more convenient for me.  
Secondly, their food is amazing. I always order their falafel platter, which comes with a small Greek salad, lemonpotatoes, rice, Greek Pitas, and five perfectly fluffy and delicious falafel balls all for $10.99 or something like that. I cannot express how delicious their falafels are. Compared to anywhere else I have gone to get Greek food in the valley, the falafel at Z's blows them out of the water. They have that perfect crunch on the outside, and are not over-cooked on the inside. They are not overpowered with garlic or parsley, and have a delicate blend of all of the flavors that falafel are supposed to have.

  Their Greek salad is also exceptional. The ingredients are fresh, and to my surprise it comes smothered in feta cheese (another thing I love). But, the thing that really makes the salad is the salad dressing. It's a traditional Greek yogurt based dressing with a slight taste of lemon. The thing is, is that it's not overly pungent or sour like some Greek yogurt dressings are. It's creamy and smooth, and tastes wonderful.  
All the other components of the meal, like the potatoes, the rice and the Greek pitas are all above-average quality as well. I've also ordered their crazy fries, which are so simple yet so good. Fries with feta and cheddar cheeses. It may not sound good, but it sure tastes good.  
If you're looking for great Greek food in the valley, you've found it at Z'

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Feathers and the Feather Runwa

Feathers are one of the epidermal growths that form the distinctive outer covering, or plumage, on birds and some non-avian theropod dinosaurs. They are considered the most complex integumentary structures found in vertebrates,[1][2] and indeed a premier example of a complex evolutionary novelty.[3] They are among the characteristics that distinguish the extantAves from other living groups. Feathers have also been noticed in thoseTheropoda which have been termed feathered dinosaurs. Although feathers cover most parts of the body of birds, they arise only from certain well-defined tracts on the skin. They aid in flight, thermal insulation, waterproofing, and coloration that helps in communication andprotection.[4] A feather boa is a fashion accessory that is usually worn wrapped around the neck like a scarf. Wearing feathers for, fashion. There aren't any ceremonial reasons for trying to look/be like a bird, the feathers are being worn just to look nice. Whether wearing large plumes or trimmings of down feathers, it's all fashionable, in fiction or in Real Life.Common forms are feathers on hand fans, feather boas, plumes on hats, trimming a rich lady's nightgown, trimming Pimped Out Dresses, trimming Sexy Santa Dresses, and trimming sexy lingerie. The latter two also make this trope Fetish Fuel.Common in Costume Porn.A Sister Trope to Pretty in Mink (in that many times feathers are worn in a similar way as fur).Finally, any examples of Peacock Girl, where the feathers are worn instead of a character having a peacock tail, would be examples of this. So when you think of feather fashions think feather fur sexy and peacock. These are some prime examples of some fashion guides that will help you pick out your fun new outfit.....

The world of entertainment

The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History OVER THE LAST HALF-BILLION YEARS, there have been Five mass extinctions, when the diversity of life on earth suddenly and dramatically contracted. Scientists around the world are currently monitoring the sixth extinction, predicted to be the most devastating extinction event since the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs. This time around, the cataclysm is us. In prose that is at once frank, entertaining, and deeply informed, New Yorker writer Elizabeth Kolbert tells us why and how … 

20/20 Diet , Dr. Phil  Mcgraw In The 20/20 Diet, Dr. Phil McGraw identies seven reasons other diets fail people over and over again: hunger, cravings, feeling of restriction, impracticality and expense, boredom, temptations, and disappointing results or plateaus. Then, he addresses each of these roadblocks by applying the latest research and theories that have emerged since his last best-seller on the same topic, The Ultimate Weight Solution. Dr. Phil and his team have created a plan that you can start following right now and continue working for the rest of your life.  

US Airways and Marquee Theater Presents.....

Phoenix Suns vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
Jan 16 , 2015  
Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Jan 19 , 201

From The Bay To The Universe Tour G-Eazy with Kehlani, Kool John, Jay Ant doors 7pm // All Ages 8pm    
G. Love & Special Sauce with Matt Costa doors 6:30pm // All Ages 8pm   

Festival and Events

Ati-Atihan Jan 10 - 19, 2015 Kalibo, Philippines Intertribal Acceptance Ati-Atihan is a story of intertribal acceptance, immigration, and transformation, but in short, it’s the story of the Philippines first real estate deal. In the 13th century, Malay refugees fleeing Borneo were allowed to settle in what is now the town of Kalibo in Aklan, Philippines, by the generous and darker-skinned Ati tribe. To honor their new friends for granting them refuge and territory rights, the emigrant Malay Datu tribe painted their skin with dark pigments and threw a feast for the ages. It wasn’t long until the Ati tribe, starving from a poor harvest, descended from their home in the mountains to enlist the help of the Datus. The people had not forgotten the Ati’s past kindness and returned the favor by feeding them. The Ati expressed their gratitude through song and dance.  

Chinese New Year Jan 31 - Feb 14, 2015 Hong Kong, China The annual celebration of Chinese New Year has grown out of this tradition of superstition. For thousands of years since, the Chinese have hung crimsoncolored lanterns to scare away the beast, giving the occasion its iconic color. Especially on the first day of the New Year, loud firecrackers, drums, and cymbals echo through the city, while fireworks and burning bamboo sticks keep the sky ablaze—all to keep the mythical Nian at bay. Chinese New Year - Feasting with Family Chinese New Year is a rejoicing of economic vitality and renewal. The country’s economy has been born out of a rich agricultural tradition, and the Spring festival marks the most auspicious time of year to set the intention for the upcoming planting and harvest. As such, it is also a time for family reunion, where all can come together and face the future with unity and optimism. The time for family is New Year’s Eve, with traditional feasting on sweet soup with dumplings, fish balls, noodles, and fried cakes. If you have friends who are locals, don’t feel shy to ask them if you can join their family dinner. You’ll see lots of little red envelopes passed from the elders to the young ones—gifts for the New Year. After dinner, many visit the fragrant flower markets at Victoria Park in Causeway Bay, or Fa Hui Park in Sham Shui Po in Kowloon. If you’re planning to give presents (a popular thing to do), the chrysanthemum signifies longevity, the peach blossom is associated with luck, and the kumquat trees embody prosperity. 

Dinagyang Jan 11 - 28, 2015 Iloilo City, Philippines The Origins Dinagyang is a recent celebration of the Ati-Atihan traditions. It began in 1967 when Reverend Ambrosio Galindez introduced the Iloilo islanders to the power of the image of Santo Niño. The image of the Holy Child was given a proper parade from the airport to town and the rest is history. The festival was first called the Iloilo Ati-Atihan but was later changed to Dinagyang to further distinguish it, but the core values remain. What started out small as a welcome for the image of the Santo Niño steadily grew and adopted traditions from the much larger and more established Ati-Atihan in Kalibo. It really grew when the tourism board stepped in the 70’s a supported the event as a way to build tourism in the region.  The festival took a turn for the fun in 1976 when spectators became participants as they were welcomed to dance side by side in the streets with the tribal dancers.

 Dance, Dance Revolution More than anything this festival is about dance, a cathartic and wild release from the routines of daily island life. The costumes are fantastic and otherworldly. This event is colorful beyond your expectations, if you have been to Rio Carnival - you will still be impressed. In its modern incarnation, the main attraction of the festival consists of "tribes", or "tribus", representing the original Ati tribe dance of celebration. Tribe members must darken their skin to mimic the color of the Ati.  Strictly indigenous materials can be used for the costumes which are nothing short of spectacular. Feathers, bones and face paint can make for some intimidating costumes, but these natives are friendly. Dances are tightly choreographed to a wild drumbeat, with no bigger blowout than the Grand Parade.  The Saturday preceding the Ati Parade is a dance celebration, the Kasadyahan Festival, that gives thanks in the form of dance as a tribute to the Creator. It’s colorful and a fitting warm up to Sunday’s epic dance-off and a great start to the weekend.

My ex has ADHD what do I do?????

 Well we all know this can be a serious problem. The issue is caring enough to research find out what the disease is. You want to remember your partner is your friend and so this can be a real good time to make your self a strong person for them.
ADHD Overview Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attention deficit disorder (ADD) symptoms may begin in childhood and continue into adulthood. ADHD and ADD symptoms, such as hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattentiveness, can cause problems at home, school, work, or in relationships.
The exact cause of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) isn't known. But it may run in families. Ongoing research is focused on finding the genes that cause a person to be likely to get ADHD. A mother's use of cigarettes, alcohol, or other drugs during pregnancy may increase the risk for ADHD.  
Also, exposure to lead may cause symptoms linked with ADHD Although many parents believe that foods with sugar and food additives make their children more hyperactive, these foods haven't been shown to cause ADHD
Prognosis…..
Exams and Tests If ADHD is suspected, the person should be evaluated by a health care professional. There is no test that can make or exclude a diagnosis of ADHD. The diagnosis is based on a pattern of the symptoms listed above. When the person with suspected ADHD is a child, parents and teachers are usually involved during the evaluation process. Most children with ADHD have at least one other developmental or mental health problem. This problem may be a mood, anxiety or substance use disorder; a learning disability; or a tic disorder. A doctor can help determine whether these other conditions are present.

Treatment Treating ADHD is a partnership between the health care provider and the patient. If the patient is a child, parents and often teachers are involved. For treatment to work, it is important to: Set specific, appropriate goals.
Start medicine and/or talk therapy.
Follow-up regularly with the doctor to check on goals, results, and any side effects of medicines. During these visits, information should be gathered from the patient and if relevant, parents and teachers.  
If treatment does not seem to work, the health care provider will likely: Confirm the person has ADHD.
Check for medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
Make sure the treatment plan is being followed.  

EDITORS FEATURE: Alcohol and the Holidays: Expert Q&A

It’s the holiday season, and along with that comes parties and lots of drinking. Liquid calories can torpedo an otherwise-perfect diet plan, but Caroline Cederquist, MD, a weight loss specialist, says that doesn’t have to be the case if you make smart decisions. Q: What is the effect of alcohol on our overall nutrition plan? A: There are several effects of alcohol, one of which is that drinking alcohol tends to lower inhibitions. So after having a glass of wine or two, sometimes people will have lower resolve to avoid dessert, or eat less, or stay within a certain calorie plan. Another thing we know about alcohol is that it can really disrupt sleep, which can really have an effect the next day in terms of caloric intake. One of the reasons alcohol affects sleep is it actually lowers blood sugar. Many of my patients, if they have a meal that’s heavy in carbohydrates and they have a few glasses of wine with it, it’s very common they’ll wake up early – like 2 or 3 in the morning – wide awake from the effects. This is that type of sleep that it’s hard to get back to sleep, a lot of tossing and turning. Sometimes people just give up and decide they’re going to be up for the rest of the day. But then during the rest of the day they’re actually tired, and there’s a lot of grabbing of food for energy. Humans don’t really have the ability to compensate well for liquid calories. When you look at cocktails and mixed drinks, they may have 300, 400 calories. Sometimes the frozen drinks are into the 700-calorie range. What we found is that when people add drinks to meals, they usually don’t eat less. Say you’re drinking 300 calories – (people) don’t eat 300 less calories of food. They eat the same amount of calories in the food, plus the 300 in the drink. So it really does add up

Phoenix-area hospitals fight highly toxic 'supergerm

Maricopa County health officials have confirmed that a relatively new, extremely toxic strain of bacteria has been found in hospitals and other health-care facilities in the Valley.
The germ, known as Clostridium difficile, has long plagued the medical profession and is blamed for an increasing amount of illness in patients. But this is the first time the new strain, known in medical circles as "NAP1," is believed to have been linked to patient illness and deaths in Arizona, health officials said. It carries at least 20 times as much toxin as the original strain. According to the county, at least 10 patients have fallen severely ill from this new type of C. diff since early March. Two of those who were infected have died, though the germ has not been named conclusively as the cause of death. All the patients were elderly and suffered from health problems. "Assuming this continues to evolve, it is going to be a real pain for our healthcare communities," said Dr. Bob England, director of the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. Like other "supergerms," all strains of C. diff are resistant to powerful antibiotics, and the infection is difficult and expensive to treat. The germ causes pronounced diarrhea and, in severe cases, can lead to inflammation of the colon, which can be fatal. Healthy and younger people usually don't get C. diff. Most cases occur in health -care facilities, and those represent only a small fraction of the tens of millions of admissions to U.S. hospitals and nursing homes every year. But the number of cases has risen sharply over the past decade, to nearly 500,000 in 2007, according to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Arizona Republic first learned of an ongoing C. diff outbreak last month after filing a state Public Records Law request to obtain a health alert issued by the Arizona Department of Health Services. Read more: http://www.azcentral.com/news/ articles/2010/05/29/20100529phoenix-hospitals-fightsupergerm.html#ixzz3Ml0wLjb

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