Best kid-friendly New Year's Eve celebrations in Seattle-Tacoma

With cocktail parties, fireworks and a mid-night kiss, New Year's Eve has always been a big night for celebration. It is a night where young couples go out on the town to start their relations on a high note. Then, go to all-night parties where they wake up to have a champagne breakfast.

When those relationships grow, the couples get married and they children those New Year's Eve out turn to having sparkling cider, tucking the kids in bed and watching one of the New Year specials on television.

On your way up to your bedroom the two of you think it would be nice to go out again for New Year but where can we go with our children? Wonder no more because below is a list of some of those kid-friendly celebrations.

• Celebration lane USA at the Bellevue Collection is a week long running nightly from December 26-31. Celebration lane brings a parade to the sidewalks between Bellevue Square, Lincoln Square and Bellevue Place on Bellevue Way & N.E. 8th St. The shows start at 7:00 pm featuring brilliant light displays, bubbles raining down from the sky, dancing drummers, festive music and characters. Admission is free.
• If you would like your children to experience how New Year's Eve is celebrated around the world then the Children's museum at Seattle Center is the place to go on New Year's Eve. On December 31 from 11 am-4 pm you and your children can experience New Year's Eve around the world by ringing in the New Year in such exotic place as India, Russia, Ethiopia, Romonia and a few other foreign lands as their clock strike mid-night. The children will be supplied with apple juice to toast with and participate in craft of each country during each hour long celebration.
• First night in downtown Tacoma's theater district is a festive night that starts at 6 pm on New Year's Eve. The evening starts off with a parade with march bands, masks, costumes and giant puppets. Once the parade is over the evening keeps going as 20 stages around the theater district come to life with music, dancing, laughter and magic. The alcohol-free fun continues until mid-night on New Year's Eve. While the outdoor festivities are free there is a 10-15 dollar charge to join the indoor party.
• For those with older children you might venture on down to the Seattle Center where they can experience New Year's Eve at the Needle. There the whole family can enjoy music, bands, a live broadcast and then the sight of the Space Needle erupting in a spectacular display of pyrotechnics to ring in the new year. If you plan to go remember to bundle up to ward off the cold and keep the kids close because of the large crowd. The evening starts at 8:00 pm until mid-night and admission is free.
• Maybe you would like to treat the kids to a New Year's Eve Hawaiian style without leave the confines of Tacoma. You can do that by taking them to Hawaiian holidays at the MOG (museum of glass). Start at 4:00 pm on December 31 they can experience fire dancers in the main plaza, enjoy Hawaiian dishes, get glass blowing lessons, enter a drawing for a Hawaiian vacation and flower leis for members. Regular museum prices apply to the festivities.

Happy 46th anniversary Apollo 8

At 7:51 am PST(10:51 am EST or 15:51 UTC) was the 46^th anniversary of one of the major milestone in NASA's race to reach the moon by the end of the decade. Apollo 8 splashed down in the Pacific Ocean ending the first mission to orbit the Moon. The mission was full of first including the first Christmas to ever be celebrated in orbit of a celestial body.

“We were told that on Christmas Eve we would have the largest audience to ever listened to a human voice,” Frank Borman said in a statement during 40th anniversary celebrations in 2008. "And the only instructions that we got from NASA was to do something appropriate."

It was 69 hours in to the mission that Apollo 8 went into orbit around the Earth's Moon. On a live Christmas Eve broadcast James Lovell jr, command module pilot, read the first 10 verses of the book of Genesis. The reading was another first as we listen to him read from Bible as they circled the Moon on December 24, 1968. During the 40^th anniversary Mr. Lovell explained why he choose that particular part of the Bible to read on the broadcast.

"The first ten verses of Genesis is the foundation of many of the world's religions, not just the Christian religion," added James Lovell. "There are more people in other religions than the Christian religion around the world, and so this would be appropriate to that and so that's how it came to pass."

The mission was the first mission to launch from the Kennedy Space Center, named for the late President John F. Kennedy, and the first manned mission to use the Saturn V rocket. The launch took place at 7:51 am EST on December 21, 1968 from the site in Florida. Shortly after that Apollo 8 became the first manned mission to leave a low Earth orbit on its way to set the stage for Apollo 11 to land on the Moon.

The primary and back-up crew for Apollo 8 had a strong representation of two of the most memorable Apollo missions. Michael Collins was picked to be the command module pilot before being pulled for medical reasons and was replaced by Jame Lovell. Michael Collins later became the command module pilot on Apollo 11, the moon landing mission. James Lovell went on to command the crew for the infamous Apollo 13. The back-up crew for Apollo 8 consisted of Neil Armstrong, Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin and Fred Haise. Neil Armstrong and Edwin Aldrin went on to be the 1^st and 2^nd men to walk on the Moon after the Apollo 11 Moon landing. Fred Haise went on to become part of the infamous Apollo 13 crew. 

NORAD tracks Santa's global trek

For hundreds of years children have always eagerly awaited the arrival of Santa Clause. They hoped to catch a glimpse of him as he delivers presents, ask him questions or if they were lucky enough see a flying reindeer. For the last 59 years NORAD (North America Aerospace Defense Command) has taken up the mantle of helping the children by tracking Santa on his Christmas Eve journey.

“Now a 59-year tradition, the North American Aerospace Defense Command in Colorado Springs, Colorado, will follow Santa Claus’s Christmas Eve travels using radar, satellites, jet fighters and special cameras,” said Air Force Master Sgt. Chuck Marsh, spokesman for the NORAD Tracks Santa program.

The NORAD tracking starts when the early warning radar array, that stretches across northern Canada and Alaska, pick up Santa's sleigh as it takes off from the North Pole. Then, satellites take over as they pick up on the heat signatures of Rudolf's red nose as he leads the pack of reindeer pulling the sleigh as it soars on its round-the-world trek. When the tracking system shows Santa entering North American airspace Canada launches CF-18 fighters to welcome Santa and the reindeer to the North American Continent.

"Canadian NORAD CF-18 fighter pilots will take off from Newfoundland and welcome Santa and his reindeer to North America, where American NORAD jet pilots will escort him in with F-15s or 16s," Marsh added, “At Dobbins Air Reserve Base near Atlanta, a couple of F-16C jets will be fueled and placed on standby mode to assist in tracking the thirty-two foot sleigh.”

As children watch the Santa's journey, at the tracking website, they can also play games, listen to Christmas music, watch a movie, visit the gift shop or go to the library where you can listen to a reading of Virginia's letter, that back in 1897 asked if there really is a Santa Clause, and the response she received. Other than just watching the journey or engaging in the act ivies on the website, children can also call and ask questions by calling the North American branch of Santa's staff that takes over NORAD at this time of the year. That staff can be reached at 1-877-446-6723 or 1-877-HI-NORAD where there questions can be answered in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese and Chinese.

The tradition of NORAD tracking Santa started in 1955 when the Sears & Roebuck company put out an ad for children to call Santa. The ad had a misprint that directed those calls to what was at that time the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) stationed in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Other articles on this topic:

• http://www.examiner.com/article/air-force-norad-ready-for-santa-s-christmas-eve-voyage?CID=examiner_alerts_article
• http://www.twincities.com/life/ci_27195950/norad-tracks-when-santa-claus-is-comin-town
• http://kdvr.com/2014/12/23/local-company-helps-norad-track-santa/

The best new bars in Seattle

Whether you call it a bar, a pub, a tavern, a saloon or the local watering hole getting together and having a drink has been a big part of our culture. Everything from wars to vacations have been planned in bars; we go, with co-workers, to bars after work to unwind and we even celebrate big events at bars. Our forefathers planned and designed our country over drinks at the local pub. When the Seahawks won the Superbowl there was a lot of celebrating at bars. With so much happening in bars it is a big deal when new ones open.

In the greater Seattle area there were several fine bars opened this year. Here is a partial list of some of the best:

• After 3 years of operation Seattle-based micro brewery Lantern opened a tasting room; on May 1,2014; to serve their Belgian brews. There you can sit down and buy 4 ounces sample, pints or bottles of the fine Belgian ales and stouts. The tasting room is located at 938 N. 95^th street in the Greenwood neighborhood of Seattle. The hours are Thursday 5 pm-9 pm, Friday & Saturday 4 pm-9 pm.
• Damn the weather is a bar that opened in the historic Pioneer square area of downtown Seattle. The bar and eatery was open in June by local Bryn Lumsden. When you visit Damn the weather you are treated to a fine selection of beers, ciders, wines and cocktails. Of course since they also an eatery while you are there you get indulge yourself with a great selection appetizers and entrees. Damn the weather is located at 116 1^st avenue where you can grace its doors from 4 pm-2 am. They also offer a happy hour from 4 pm-6:30 pm where they do offer discounts.
• Elysian bar is the latest establishment opened, in May of this year, by the Elysian brewery that has been providing their fine creations to the greater Seattle area since 1995. When you grace the doors you can enjoy any one of 18 fine beers or specialty cocktails. They also provide both lunch and diner. The bar and restaurant is located at 1516 2^nd avenue and opened from 11 am-2 am 7 days a week. One of the things you will first notice when you enter the establishment is a giant spiral staircase leading to the second floor that was home to original office of Amazon.com.
• Canterbury ale house isn't exactly new but the was refurbished after closing last year. The grand re-opening of the establishment was in October this year. The ale house is located at 534 15^th avenue east in the heart of Seattle. They are open from 3 pm-2 am Monday-Friday and 10 am-2 am on Saturday & Sunday. All ages are welcome up until 9 pm when it becomes a 21 & over bar. Saturday& Sunday they serve brunch starting at 11 am until closing.
• The Comet tavern re-opened in March of this year down on pike street in downtown Seattle. They are open 12 pm-2 am daily providing traditional bar food and beers. The Comet offers 2 pool tables, pinball and skeeball with free pool from 4 pm-6 pm.
• Mezcaleria Oaxaca opened in February of this year on Seattle's capitol hill. When you visit the establishment located at 422 east Pine street you can feast on fine Mexican cuisine, margaritas and beers.

Dish drops Fox news

Saturday evening many Subscribers to Dish Networks had were disappointed when Fox News and their affiliated channels went dark. The blackout, which is still going, was a result of an impasse between the satellite TV provider and Fox while negotiating a new contract. According to spokespeople at Dish this breakdown is a direct result of Fox adding channels to the negotiations to try and increase the fees the satellite company has been paying for broadcasting rights.

"It's like we're about to close on a house and the Realtor is trying to make us buy a new car as well," Warren Schlichting, Dish's senior vice president of programming, said in a statement "Fox blacked out two of its news channels, using them as leverage to triple rates on sports and entertainment channels that are not in this contract."

Fox news channel and the Fox business network have become the third network in the past three months to have stations pulled from Dish TV over negotiation breakdowns. The first was Turner broadcasting back in October and then CBS broadcasting earlier this month. Those two breakdowns in talks resulted in those networks pulling their channels on a temporary basis, 1 month and 12 hours respectfully, until the negotiations were resolved.

How long the blackout with Fox will last is hard to say with each side blaming the other for the impasse. According to Fox executive vice president Tim Carry they are offering Dish the same type of package deal that other carriers have agreed to purchase.

"How can I continue a relationship with someone who feels that they can be treated differently?," Carry said. He blamed Dish for not evolving its business model: "There's at the end of the rope of the pricing and marketing model they put in in 1993 and have not changed."

Whichever side is more to blame for the blackout is unknown. The one thing that a certainty in this dispute is that it is the 14 million Dish subscribers at the ones that suffer from the lose.

Other articles on this topic:

• http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/latest-tv-spat-fox-news-blocked-dish-network-27748745
• http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/breaking/chi-fox-news-removed-from-dish-20141220-story.html
• http://www.cnet.com/news/fox-news-channels-go-dark-on-dish-as-contract-talks-stall/#!

Review: Mateguas Island

Mateguas Island: A novel of terror and suspense by Linda Watkins is a fun novel full of mystery and Native American folklore. You add in some love, betrayal, secrets and sex makes it a must read that will keep the reader glued to every page.

The book starts out normal enough following a young couple, Bill and Karen Anderson and their twin girls, Sophie and Terri, as they make a cross country trek after Bill loses his job. It is after they settle in their new house on the tiny island off the coast of Maine that that the thrill ride begins. The ride starts slow as Bill finds some mysterious carvings. Then the roller-coaster gains speed as an old box is discovered with the same carvings. Our ride picks up more when an old legend is told about the land where the family now live. Now, the roller-coaster at full speed you are taken on a wild ride with Bill and Karen as bizarre occurrences, changes in their personalities and secret rendezvous stretch them to their limits and threatens to unravel an already fragile household.

Ms. Watkins gives us a magnificent collection of character that you might run into in everyday life. There is Pete and Louise McKinney, the friendly and helpful couple always will to lend a hand and become so much a part of your family the children start referring to them as aunt and uncle. Maggie Maguire the smart, beautiful, young woman that has a roving eye. Then there is Dex the highly intelligent, hansom and friendly guy that gets along with everyone but the men an eye on their wives and girlfriends when he is around.

Ms. Watkins does a great job of teasing us with the part that each character will play later in the story by letting us in their very thoughts. One example is when we read Maggie's thoughts reveal a desire not only for Bill but the house as well. The revelation makes you wonder if there is more to her than just the man-chaser she appears to be on the surface.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys suspense, small town life or just a fun enjoyable read that they can get so absorb in they lose track of their own surroundings.  

111 years ago the Wright brothers made a historical flight

Breaking news: December 17, 1903 at 10:35 am EST brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright flew into history here at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. That was probably the headline on every newspaper across the country on that day 111 years ago. That was when Orville Wright made the first successful flight of a heavier than air craft. The flight only lasted 12 seconds and the flier travel 120 feet at an altitude of just a few feet above the ground. They made more flights on that day with the final one lasting almost a minute and traveling 852 feet at an altitude of 10 feet.

“I found the control of the front rudder quite difficult on account of its being balanced too near the center and thus had a tendency to turn itself when started so that the rudder was turned too far on one side and then too far on the other. As a result the machine would rise suddenly to about 10 ft. and then as suddenly, on turning the rudder, dart for the ground. A sudden dart when out about 100 feet from the end of the tracks ended the flight. Time about 12 seconds (not known exactly as watch was not promptly stopped),” is an exert from Orville Wright's diary.

The two brothers started experimenting with flying crafts in 1899 working in their bicycle shop in Dayton, Ohio. They worked with parts from their bicycles, cloth and wood to create their flier. By 1902 they had their first practical glider. After searching for an area to test their glider they settled on Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Once they transported the glider there, they made over 700 successful flights. The success of the glider proved they were ready for the next step of powered flight. The problem was that they could not find anyone to supply them with a motor. So, it was back to their shop where the brothers crafted their own motor.

In 1905 the Wright brothers sent letters to both the English and American military proposing a test flight for an airplane that could carry personal a minimum of 50 miles. The British sent someone to witness a test flight but the United States turned the offer down. In 1908 the brothers did win a bid to supply the United States military with an airplane.

The Wright brothers could not have imagined just where that first flight would lead to in the next century. What would they think if they could see the commercial flights zooming to all corners of the Earth, the hi-tech stealth fighters and various spacecraft. 

5 of the best grills for tailgating at CenturyLink field

No one is quite sure who was the first person to start the tradition of tailgating at sporting events, probably a parent rushing their child off to their game. Since that time it has become a big part of the total sporting experience. Getting to the game early having burger, hot dog, steak or your favorite pre-game food and sharing it with friends, family or just other fans. It has become so much of a part of the sporting event just about every venue has rules about tailgating and sponsors their own tailgating parties. CenturyLink is no exception with several rules for all Seahawks fans to follow when they throw their tailgating parties before the game.

One of those rules is that you can not use a charcoal grill in the stadium parking-lot. For some tailgating purest, that use charcoal grills, they might not like the rule much. Since their love of sports and tailgating out-weighs their love of charcoal grill they are willing to stand by the rule. The question is what propane/natural gas grill to buy for taking to the Seahawks games. The following is a list of 5 of the best grills for under 200 hundred dollars and big enough to meet your tailgating needs:

• The Blacktop 360 HFI premium party hub grill/fryer isn't your average port grill. With the different cooking surfaces and a warming plate it gives you the capability to please everyone in the group. Its circular 452-square inch surface provides you a grill, a griddle, warmer and a deep fat fryer that can also double as sauce pot. The Blacktop 360 also comes with a cutting board that attaches to it for a convenient preparation surface.
• The Coleman RoadTrip LXX is one of the all time classics portable grills for all occasions. The 285-square inch cooking surface gives you plenty of cooking area for making all of your tailgating favorites. It has to separate burners that can come in handy if you need to prepare foods that cook at different temperatures. With the legs and wheels folded up the 36x18x12 inch 50 pound Coleman is extremely portable. Coleman also sells separate grill, griddle and stove grates that can be used on the RoadTrip grill.
• The Smoke Hollow 28159K is a great portable to take to your next tailgating party. It has a 325-square-inch cook surface to provide plenty of cook area and 15,000 BTUs to ensure a good even heat. Just like the Coleman the legs and wheels fold-up for easy portability. The metal hook next to the burner controls assure easy access to your BBQ tools (preferably Seahawks themed).
• If you do not have that much space the Stansport SS might be the grill for your tailgating needs. At only 10x10x15.5-inches it does require much space. It only weighs 5 pounds so carrying it is not a chore. The 129-square-inch cooking surface and 20,000 BTUs still give you plenty of area and power for all your tailgating needs. At under 100 dollars it might very well be the best choice for the budget minded.
• At 12.8x12.8x11.5-inches and weighing a mere 4 pounds the Coleman 9940-A55 Roadtrip party grill is small and compact enough to fit in small spaces. It only provides 8,000 BTUs but the designed of this grill gives it a good flow that cooks just like a high output grill. It is also under 100 dollars so it will fit well in those on a tight budget.

Sir Tim Berners-Lee speaks out on the latest Web index

Since the time when Sir Tim Berners-Lee first launch the World Wide Web in 1989 he has always made it known that created the Web to be open and equal for everyone. So, when the World Wide Web foundation's annual Web index report came out Thursday Mr. Berners-Lee spoke out about the need to work on making the Internet and Web more accessible around the world.

“It’s time to recognize the Internet as a basic human right,” Berners-Lee said. “That means guaranteeing affordable access for all, ensuring Internet packets are delivered without commercial or political discrimination, and protecting the privacy and freedom of Web users regardless of where they live.”

Mr. Berners-Lee seemed disappointed that in the 25 years since the introduction of Web his vision of everyone having access is still unfulfilled. Instead of all the people having access the report shows that approximately 4.4 billion, of the estimate 7 billion people in the world, still do not have access to the Internet. Most of those that do not have access are in poor undeveloped countries. Even in the United States Internet access is still only 75% meaning that around 80 million still have not Googled themselves.

While talking about the Web index Mr. Berners-Lee also took the opportunity to address some comments that Russian President Vladimir Putin made earlier this year saying that the Internet was a CIA project.

"The Internet is not a CIA creation," Tim Berners-Lee, a London-born computer scientist who invented the Web in 1989 - the year that the Berlin Wall collapsed - told Reuters when asked about Putin's CIA comment. He then added, "It was the academic community who wired up their universities so it was put together by smart, well-meaning people who thought it was a good idea.”

Other relevant articles that might try:

• http://www.forbes.com/sites/timworstall/2014/12/13/tim-berners-lee-is-right-internet-for-all-but-how-to-get-it/
• http://www.businessinsider.com/r-father-of-web-tells-russias-putin-internet-is-not-a-cia-project-2014-12
• http://english.alarabiya.net/en/media/digital/2014/12/11/Web-inventor-says-Internet-should-be-human-right-.html
• http://www.theregister.co.uk/2014/12/11/sir_tim_vs_putin/

A how-to guide to making your Seahawk fan outit

You have followed the Seattle Seahawks for years. You watch or listen to every game where ever you happen to be at the time. You follow all the news, discus the games with fellow Seahawks fans, know the bios of all the starting players and have a blog dedicated to the team. For one reason or another the one thing you have not done is actually attend the game in person.

That is all about to change though as you have finally arranged your schedule and scored tickets. Your are so excited that you will have the chance to see all of your favorite team in person. You want to show off your pride in a way that lets everyone you bleed green, blue and silver. So, you rack your brain trying to figure out how-to make the perfect outfit that expresses your enthusiasm.

Jersey and off the rack gear

Your first thoughts are that you could just go to one 4 brick-and-mortar or the online Seahawks pro shop. Since the brick-and-mortar stores are all to far for you to go look around you go to the website. You look through all the pages and see jerseys,shoes, pants, hats and plenty of other fan wear for the dedicated Seahawks supporter. You tell yourself that while having a jersey and other forms of sportswear with the number of your favorite player or the team logo is a good start it is too ordinary for a fan of your caliber. So, you decide to get a few essentials but try to come up with other ideas to enhance your outfit.

Body paint, stencils and other body decorations

You think to yourself I have seen quite a few fans with body paint and temporary tattoos. So, you do a web search where you come along something a link that might make a great addition to your unique fan outfit. You click on the link to check out this body paint & stencil kit. As your reading about the kit you see ads for related items, such as, temporary tattoos, the eye black the the players wear, a blue & green wig and other types of body decorations. You mark the link for later reference but another idea occurs to you that just might make for a more unique display of your devotion.

Embroidery, bead-work and other clothing enhancements

It dawns on you have a jacket, pants, shirt and other clothing item in the team colors that you could customize to make your own unique outfit. You have a friend that is an expert at custom embroidery. You call them up and tell them what sort of design you have in mind They love your idea and suggest maybe adding some beads or jewels. The suggestions sound great so the two of you go to work designing your ultimate fan outfit.

Jewelry

There is one last thing you think of that will put the finish touch on your ultimate fan outfit. So, you do a search for jewelry and hit the jackpot with earrings, watches, rings and all kinds of items to “bling out”.

You end up doing a combination of all the above. When it is done you are pleased that you now have your own one-of-a-kind outfit to wear as you cheer on your team.  

Not your typical night at the casino

My evening started out with a trip to the local casino where I had a nice dinner at the buffet. Then it was off to do some gambling where I broke even. The friends that I went with were still gambling so i was patently waiting for them. That was when our evening turned horribly bad.

It was 8:30 and I was waiting for my friends and the alarms went off. At first I didn't think much of it. There was some sort of announcement but nobody could understand what was being said and just kept playing. It wasn't until we saw people walking to the exits and the poker tables being closed that we started to wonder what was going on. Then one of the security people walked over and tiold us to cash out be the casino was being evacuated. He went on to tell us that the storm had knocked a tree over right on a propagne tank.

We left the casino where we could smell the propagne leak and hear the sirens of the approaching emergency vehicles. Since our car was parked by the valet we went over to retrieve the keys but the valet office was locked down and no one cold retrieve their keys. Instead we were all ushered across the street so we were a safe distance away. Most of us all did as we were directed but as usual there were the few looking loos that wondered around in the street to see what was going on.

After a few minutes we were ushed farther away from the casino to another building where we were able to go inside where it was warm and out of the rain. It was about 9:30 when the announcement came that the people with cars in the parking garge could leave. That still left all the people that had their cars parked by valets and all the casino employees. It wasn't for anout 45 minutes until the anouncement came that we could sign out our car keys. All the drivers got in line and signed for their keys. Since we were still at the alternate building we had to wait for the casino shuttle. By the time the Shuttle picked us up and took us back to pick up our cars it was 10:30.

It wasn't quite the way that any of us expected to spend our evening.

Some of the most memorable sports moments of the year

As we look back at the year of sports in the greater Seattle area there were many memorable moments. Many of thos moments involved the Seattle Seahawks as they started off the year on their journey to the first Superbowl win in the teams 38 year history. The Seattle Mariners had their share of moments as they made a run, that came up short, for the baseball playoffs. One player had a memorable moment for the Tacoma Rainiers during the minor league all-star game. As the year winds down it is again the Seattle Seahawks adding more memorable moments as they break records while chasing another conference title. The following are just a few of those moments that along with other thrilling plays made for an unforgettable year in sports.

Seattle Seahawks

The first memorable moment for the Seahawks came in the NFC championship. On the final drive by the San Francisco 49ers, Seahawks' cornerback Richard Sherman tipped a ball that was intercepted by Malcom Smith. The play sealed a 23-17 win for the Seattle Seahawks sending them to the Superbowl.

The second memorable moment for the Seahawks was attributed to a fan that did one of Peyton Mannings famous “Omaha” calls causing the center to hike the ball early. The play ended in a safety to give the Seahawks an early 2-0 lead.

A second memorable moment for the Seahawks just before half time in the Super when Malcom Smith intercepted a pass from Peyton Manning. Smith ran the ball back 69 yards for a touchdown to extends the Seahawks lead to 21-0. The play was Malcom Smith's first big play on his way to becoming MVP of the Superbowl. A game that the Seahawks dominance for a final score of 43-8.

The next memorable moment came on a Monday night in October when quarterback Russell Wilson ran through the defense of the Washington Redskins on his way to setting a record for rushing by a quarterback.

The Seahawks had another memorable moment came at the end of their November 6 game against the New York Giants. Backup runningback Robert Turbin ran for 6 yards to give the Seahawks a team rushing record of 350 yards for the game.

Seattle Mariners

Kyle Seager of the Seattle Mariners had two memorable moments in 2014. The first was when he had 2 triples, a homerun and a double in one game against the New York Yankees. The second came after the baseball season when the league acknowledged him as one of the top 3^rd baseman by giving him his first gold glove award.

Dustin Ackley had a memorable moment for the Mariners when he made a great over the wall catch to rob Travis d'Arnuad of a homerun.

Fernando Rodney had a memorable moment for the Mariners in mid September when he tied the team's single season save record with save 45 against the Oakland Athletics. He went on to collect 3 more saves in the final 16 games of the season. Fernando Rodney's 48 saves help keep the Seattle Mariners in the playoff hunt for most of the season.

Tacoma Rainiers

Chris Taylor set the most memorable moment for the Tacoma Rainiers when he was named the MVP of the triple-A all-star game. Chris Taylor was rewarded by being called up to the Seattle Mariners to replace Brad Miller as the team's starting shortstop.

Did Mars have lakes?

It was 2005 when a European space probe first found evidence that there was water on Mars. 9 years later NASA's Curiosity Rover made a startling discover that suggest that not only was there water but enough water to affect the landscape of the planet. It seems that the 3.5-mile high Mount Sharp is actually a sedimentary rock formation. Meaning that the 96-mile wide Gale crater must have had enough water to form the mountain.

“This lake was large enough, it could have lasted millions of years — sufficient time for life to get started and thrive, sufficient time for lake sediment to build up to form Mount Sharp,” said Michael Meyer, lead scientist of NASA’s Mars exploration program.

The revelation means that millions of years in its past Mars had a lake, probably more, bigger than than the Great Salt Lake in Utah. The water had to have been around long enough to produce the amount of sediment need to create such a formation larger than Mount Whitney. Estimates of the amount of time it must have taken for the mountain to form range anywhere from one to ten million years.

“This was a complete surprise,” said Grotzinger, a Caltech geologist. “There was no way to have recognized this from orbit.”

On November 26, 2011 NASA launched the Boeing and Lockheed Martin built Curiosity from Cape Canaveral. It spent the next 23 months traveling to Mars where it was look in to the possibility of the planet at one time having sustainable life. On August 6, 2012 the rover touched down at the Gale Crater site on the Red Planet. It has been using its portable laboratory to explore the crater since that time. A month ago it finally started climbing Mount Sharp where one of the core samples it took showed that it was formed from these sedimentary deposits.

"If our hypothesis for Mount Sharp holds up, it challenges the notion that warm and wet conditions were transient, local or only underground on Mars," Ashwin Vasavada, the Curiosity mission's deputy project scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, said in a news release. "A more radical explanation is that Mars' ancient, thicker atmosphere raised temperatures above freezing globally, but so far we don't know how the atmosphere did that."

Other articles on this topic:

• http://www.nbcnews.com/science/space/mars-curiosity-rover-finds-clues-genesis-ancient-lake-peak-n264081
• http://www.floridatoday.com/story/tech/science/space/mars/2014/12/08/mars-mountain-may-formed-big-lake/20116755/
• http://www.latimes.com/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-curiosity-water-mars-mt-sharp-lakes-20141208-story.html

Time for the New Horizons spacecraft to wake up

At approximately 9:30 pm EST( 6:30 pm PST or 2:30 pm UTC), on Saturday (December 6), the New Horizons spacecraft will wake up from its 18 month hibernation. As soon as the craft wakes up it will send a confirmation back to Earth that will take about 6 hours to travel the 2.9 billion miles distance. Once it sends the confirmation the craft will start preperations for the final leg of its mission to get a close up look at Pluto.

“New Horizons is healthy and cruising quietly through deep space – nearly three billion miles from home – but its rest is nearly over,” stated Alice Bowman, New Horizons mission operations manager at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHUAPL) in Maryland. “It’s time for New Horizons to wake up, get to work, and start making history.”

At 2:00 pm EST (11:00 am PST or 7:00pm UTC) on January 19, 2006 an Atlas V rocket carrying the New Horizons spacecraft lifted off from launch site 41 at Cape Canaveral, Florida. From there the craft start its 9 and a half year journey to get a close-up look at what was then considered the 9^th major planet in our solar system. In Feburary of 2007 the craft did a flyby of the planet Jupiter where it sent back so scientific data about the planet as well give a gravitational assist on it long journey still ahead. That long journey will end on July 14, 2015 when New Horizons will make its close approach (2,600 miles) to the dwarf planet.

"This is the first look at this new zone of rocky, icy planets," Michael Buckley, a public information officer for John Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory told ABC News. "This is what New Horizons is supposed to do."

It was in 1905 that astronomer Percival Lowell first hinted that there was a 9^th planet in the solar system. It was not until after Mr. Lowell died that his prediction was proved right when Clyde Tombaugh, working at the Lowell observatory, caught sight of the planet. Most of what we know about the planet is from observation, estimation and small amounts of data gathered by the Mariner and Voyager spacecraft. Until its discovery in 1978 we did not even think Pluto had a moon.

Other articles on this topic:

• http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/spacecraft-bound-pluto-set-awake-years-launch/story?id=27285504
• http://www.universetoday.com/116278/wake-up-pluto-spacecraft-new-horizons-emerges-from-nap-next-month/
• http://www.universetoday.com/116855/plutos-closeup-will-be-awesome-based-on-jupiter-pics-from-new-horizons-spacecraft/

10 commandments of tailgating in Seattle

Tailgating has long been a part of the entire football experience. There is nothing that can ruin the entire day than a bad incident at your tailgating party. If you just follow these few simple commandments your Seattle Seahawk tailgating experience should remain good for everyone involved.

Seahawk Commandment I

When tailgating you should show team pride by proudly displaying team banners, wear team colors and put any team above your home team. The main reason you are there is to support your team so let every know by display that 12^th man flag; wearing a jersey of your favorite player; have some team themed gear and don't forget the blue, green and silver decorations.

Seahawk Commandment II

You should always be well prepared before leaving to go tailgating. We you are packing to leave use a checklist to make sure that you have all equipment you need, enough food for your party plus some extra for any last minute guests and fellow tailgaters that might not have enough and also some extra clothing and cover in case of cold weather.

Seahawk Commandment III

You should always follow the rules. Whether you are tailgating at the Century-Link Field or one of the off-site tailgate areas there are rules and guidelines that should respected.

Seahawk Commandment IV

You should always be respectful of others. We want Seattle to have the reputation that fans of the oppose can come and feel safe.

Seahawks Commandment V

You should share with other. Maybe another tailgating group didn't bring enough, one of the hard work parking lot works would like a slider or someone showed up early for the game. Whatever the reason be a good host and offer to share some of your bounty.

Seahawk Commandment VI

You should always have good time management. A good host should make sure that their tailgating party has plenty of time to enjoy the feast, have time to clean up and get to the game in time to see the kickoff. So, make you get there early enough that you and your guest don't feel rushed.

Seahawk Commandment VII

You should make sure everyone has a good tailgating experience. As a good tailgating host one of your jobs is to make sure all of your guests enjoy the party. bv

Seahawk Commandment VIII

You should never intrude on someone else tailgate party. If you notice another tailgate party has a dish that you would like to try then politely ask them if you may have some to try.

Seahawk Commandment IX

You should keep control of your tailgating party. Even if your group has good intentions a scuffle can easily breakout anytime groups of prideful sports fans get together.

Seahawk Commandment X

You should plan out plan out your party. Nothing can ruin a party more than not having a good plan. Make sure you have a good exit strategy, that you and your guest know where the bathrooms are located and that you have a plan in case something disrupts your original plans.

Bad weather guide to tailgating at CenturyLink Field

In Washington State we have a saying “if you don't like the weather just wait 5 minute and it will change”. During the Fall and Winter months that say can be very literal with conditions going from sunny to snowy in the blink of an eye. You might wake up to a clear sky, get soaking wet walking to your car 5 minutes later and have your windows covered in snow a block down the road. By the time you final arrive at Century-Link Field the weather has gone through three more changes making you reconsider your tailgating plans. Luckily there are a few precaution that you can take that will let you keep your tailgating plans in our ever-changing weather.

Check and get constant updates of the days forecast

Before you leave to go to Century-Link for tailgating you should check the forecast. You should also get updates to the forecast because you can not count on that forecast to stay the same from the time you leave to the time you get to the stadium.

Dress for all possibilities

You will be outdoors tailgating for 1 to 2 hours so you should be prepared for a few changes in the weather. It is always a good idea to have an extra layer of clothes, preferably in Seahawks colors, that you can put on if/when the weather turns bad. A good thick jacket, preferably waterproof, is always a good idea to have within reach. If it is late in the regular season, or the playoffs, a pair of gloves, some hand warmers and foot warmers might be something you consider putting in your gloebox.

Keep cover

No one wants to get caught in a downpour unprepared. Umbrellas, awnings or some other type of portable cover should be part of your tailgating supplies. Remember though that any type of portable shelter that bring should be well ventilated. If you don't have any type of good portable shelter than you might want to make contingency plans where you can go inside if needed.

Food and beverages

This might think that what food and beverage you take does not matter but think again. If the weather is cold, wet and windy you might not want to send too much time out in the elements preparing your food so bring something that can be cooked quick or prepared ahead of time could be a good idea. If it is nasty weather than you might want to forgo the soda, ice tea and water for thermoses of cocoa, coffee and apple cider. In cold weather it is even more important to keep hydrated so be sure you have plenty of liquids along.

Emergency kit and other equipment

Now that you have prepared yourself it is time to think about your vehicle. The Seattle area is notorious for black-ice so having cat litter, sand of some other form of de-icer that you sprinkle around your vehicle is a must have. Seattle does not get too much snow but if there is a chance of snow in the forecast you might want to pack a snow shovel. An ice-scraper is always a handy item to keep in your glove box. The final item you should always keep handy that many people don't think about is some form of a spray de-icer that you can use on your door-handles if they get iced up after the game on a cold night.

tailgating guide for CenturyLink Field

There is nothing quite like going to tailgating event before the game. Meet other fans, outdoor cooking and talking about your favorite teams and players. Before you plan you own tailgating event or joining in with others you need to know the all the whens and wheres.

Where can I park?

• If you are planning on setting up your tailgating event at Century Link you can only park in the north (King street) parking-lot.
• Do not just think that you can grab any space though. You are limited to the spot where parking personal direct you.
• Once you are finally in your designated spot there is one more rule before you are free to set up for tailgating. That rule is that all of your awnings, chairs, bbqs and other equipment must be contained within your designated area.

What can I take?

• Any barbecue that you are taking to Century-Link Field must be propane.
• No glass containers will be allowed. No one wants to have to worry about glass that might get broke in the parking-lot.
• No kegs or large beverage containers.
• No alcoholic beverages since this is a public area.

What time can I do my tailgating?

• Feel free to come and start your tailgating 2 hours before gametime.
• You can do your tailgating up to 15 minutes beore gametime.

Are there any other rules I should know?

• No fighting or sports relating actives will be allowed. It is a matter of safety for yourselves and others.

• Remember to pick up all of your trash before you go inside the stadium. Keeping our stadium clean is a good way of showing respect.

What if I do not want do my tailgating in the parking-lot?

If you would rather do your tailgating indoors at the Century-Link then once you park you can go into the event center where it is transformed into Touchdown City. It is free to go in and enjoy a family-oriented event. In Touchdown City you can eat, drink and watch the game on big-screen TVs. You might even meet a Sea Gal while you are enjoying yourself.

Where else can I Tailgate?

• 2 blocks west of Century-Link is a diamond parking-lot that is referred to as Hawk Haven. Even though you will be able to tailgate it is still a paid parking-lot so there will be a cost involved. The rules in the parking-lot are a little more lenient than they are at the stadium but it is still patroled by police so you should use common sense.
• Airport Way & 6^th Avenue also provides a paid lot where you can do your tailgating.
• 8^th & South Holgate Street is another paid lot that is relatively close to the stadium.
• South Jackson street has a lot under the I-5 overpass where you tailgate.
• Safeway store also provide a place that you can go for free. There is no need for you to bring anything since Safeway provides food, non-alcoholic beverages and big screen TVs. They start the party at 8 am and it continues until kickoff.

Links I used for references:

• http://www.seahawks.com/gameday/stadium-guide/tailgating-info.html
• http://seattle.cbslocal.com/2012/09/15/tailgating-parking-tips-at-centurylink-field/
• http://www.seahawks.com/news/articles/article-hawkmail/Hawk-Alley-Your-next-Seahawks-tailgate-destination/875188db-971b-45f7-be3e-3eaae643fe21
• http://seattle.cbslocal.com/2012/10/14/tailgate-timing-for-a-seahawks-game-at-centurylink-field/

Review: Magic Breaks

Magic Breaks once again shows that the husband and wife writing team known as Ilona Andrews are tops in the urban fantasy genre. Once again we travel to the post shift city of Atlanta where magic and technology collide. Once there we are in the world of Kate Daniels where shapeshifters, necromancers, mythical beings and magic users of all kinds are real. From the moment you land in this world you are captivated as we accompany Kate on the latest mission for her detective agency. We are kept involved as Kate battles an old foe, tries to solve a murder all while trying to save the city from the ultimate threat her own father.

In this book we are re-acquainted some of our favorite characters in Curran Lennart aka the beast Lord, the leader of the shapeshifters; former mercenary, liaison for the order and now Curran's mate; Andrea Nash, Kate's best friend, former knight of the order and now Alpha of the Bouda clan at the keep. In this book we finally meet the ultimate villain and person that Kate has been preparing her whole life to battle, her father Roland.

Gordon and Ilona Andrews do an excellent job of keeping us on the edge of our seats with plot twist and added complication. Just when we think we know how one situation will end and we can let out our breath something else into the mix to once again cause us to take a deep breath and hold it again. One good example is when Curran, the beast lord, arrives to rescue Kate from the prison where she has been transported. Just when we think they are safe an will make it out new challenge arrive to hinder their escape.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone that has read the previous books in the series, likes adventure, the supernatural, mythology or just a good read that will whisk you away in hours of enjoyment.   

Where did Thanksgiving get its start?

Over the years the meaning of Thanksgiving has for the most part been long forgotten. It has become known mostly as day we over eat, watch football and hit the store to start our Christmas shopping. Even those of us that are familiar with the story of the pilgrims the landed at Plymouth Rock have very little idea of the actual meaning behind the celebration.

Even though we associate both Easter and Christmas with religion it is Thanksgiving can traces its beginnings back to the Old Testament. After the Exodus from Egypt there was a set of rules dealing with food and among those where a number of feasts. Among those feasts was the feast of the Tabernacles that is to be celebrated in the month of Tishri, which in our calender is right around October, to give thanks for the harvest that has been provided and their 40 years of survival in the wilderness. Whether or not this was the what the Pilgrims had in mind when they invited the local Indians for their Thanksgiving could be of debate. What can not be denied though is there is a strong parallel between the two feasts since they were both around harvest time and giving thanks to their survival and bountiful harvest.

Is there a new cold war on the rise?

In the 1957 the United Socialist Soviet Republic (USSR) launched Sputnik I as the first blow of the “space race”. Most people around at the time were fascinated thinking that the “space race” was all about exploration and who would get to the Moon first. What most of us didn't know is that both sides had plans to take the “Cold War” into space.

Before the USSR broke up they still had a plan called “Istrebitel Sputnikov” or “Satellite Killer” in the works. When the USSR broke up in the early 1990's there wasn't the funding to keep the project going and it was thought the project was scraped and long forgotten. Recent activity observed by satellite tracker has made some people wonder if maybe those plans have been brought back from the dead file.

In May of this year Russia launched four objects. Three of these were military communication satellites and one was just known as “Object 2014 28E”. After the all the objects were deployed in space it was thought that “Object 2014 28E” was just harmless debris until last week when it was tracked maneuvering to a rocket stage that carried it into space. The Financial Times first reported about this object and its suspicious activity on November 17.

“Whatever it is, [Object 2014-28E] looks experimental,” said Patricia Lewis, research director at think-tank Chatham House and an expert in space security. “It could have a number of functions, some civilian and some military. One possibility is for some kind of grabber bar. Another would be kinetic pellets which shoot out at another satellite. Or possibly there could be a satellite-to-satellite cyber attack or jamming.”

In October of this year a United States Air Force unmanned drone landed after its second mysterious mission. Theories have abounded, including killing satellites, on the purpose of those missions. As far as we know our re-usable military drone has been around years longer then the Russians supposed satellite killer. It makes one wonder if “Object 2014 28E” could be in retaliation of our drone and if there could be a new “space war” brewing.

Other articles on this topic:

• http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2014/11/18/a-mysterious-russian-space-object-revives-speculation-about-satellite-killer/
• http://www.newsmax.com/Newsfront/Russians-space-satellite-killer-launch/2014/11/18/id/608062/
• http://www.examiner.com/article/mystery-satellite-could-be-russian-space-weapon?CID=examiner_alerts_article
• http://www.space.com/27806-russia-mystery-object-space-weapon.html

45 years ago Apollo 12 landed on the Moon

We all know the names Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin as the first as the first and second people to step foot on the Moon when Apollo 11 landed in July of 1969. We know the name James Lovell as the commander of Apollo 13 because of the movie about the ill-fated mission. Unless you are over 50 or a big follower of space exploration you probably could not name the the third and forth people to put their feet on the surface of the Moon.

It was 45 years ago when Pete Conrad made a pinpoint landing on the surface of the Moon. He then climbed down the ladder to became the third person to set foot on the lunar surface. Lunar Module pilot Alan Bean followed Mr. Conrad to become the forth person .

“Whoopee, man, that may have been a small one for Neil, but that's a long one for me," Pete Conrad exclaimed as he became the third person to walk on the Moon

During their 32 hours on the moon Mr. Conrad and Mr. Bean carried out three mission objectives. The first was to complete a more extensive survey of the lunar surface. The second was to set up ALSEP (Apollo lunar surface experiments package) that would collect seismic, scientific and engineering data over the next tow years. The third of the objectives was to not only collect rocks and sail samples but part of the surveyor 3 probe that landed on the Moon on April 20, 1967.

Once the mission was complete Mr. Conrad and Mr. Bean lifted of the lunar surface at 9:25 am (EST) on November 20, 1969. They then made a rendezvous with Richard Gordon, who was orbiting the Moon in the command module, where they docked at 12:58 pm (EST) that same day. The three astronauts then started on the long voyage back to Earth where they splashed down on November 24, 1969 at 3:58 pm (EST).

Other articles on this topic:

• http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/apollo/missions/apollo12.html#.VGzsBfnF8-V
• http://townhall.com/news/us/2014/11/19/today-in-history-n1920761

Microsoft re-brands the Lumia smartphone

Over the weekend Redmond-based Microsoft teased us with an image of a new Lumia device sporting the date 11.11.2014 and the notable absence of the Nokia name. The teaser did not clarify whether the new device would be a smartphone or a tablet. A leak that the Verge uncovered hinted that it would indeed be a new low-end smartphone. Last night Microsoft conirmed those leaks when they introduced the new Microsoft Lumia 535 smartphone.

“Lumia 535 comes with our ‘5x5x5’ proposition,” said Jo Harlow, corporate vice president for Phones at Microsoft. “Innovation should be available to everyone, and we are doing this through the very best integrated Microsoft services included and out of the box, a 5MP wide-angle front-facing camera, and a spacious 5-inch qHD screen — all at an affordable price.”

On the outside the Microsoft Lumia 535 is a very nice hand hugging 5.5-inches tall, 2.8-inches wide and 0.3-inches thick. The 5-inch screen will have a 960 x 540 resolution (220ppi) and 24-bit true color. The resolution is comparable to some of the other lower-end smartphones like the Motorola droid Razr. On the inside the 535 runs a 1.2 GHz quad-core Snapdragon 200 processor, has 1 GB of RAM, 8 GB of internal storage with a mcroSD card slot for up to 128 GB of extra storage. Microsoft also offer 15 GB of cloud storage for up to 161 GB of storage for all your apps, pics and videos.

The Microsoft Lumia 535 an affordable €110, $135 or ₤85. Microsoft will first release the smartphone in select markets in Europe and Asia including Russia, Ukraine, China and Indonesia. Next month they will expand their release area to Australia, Vietnam, Thailand and select areas of Africa. Next year there are plans for the smartphone to be released in Latin America and the United Kingdom but sadly there is no set date for a United States release of the 535.

Other articles of this topic:

• http://www.cnet.com/products/microsoft-lumia-535/
• http://www.theregister.co.uk/2014/11/11/microsoft_snuffs_out_nokia_with_first_lumia/
• http://techcrunch.com/2014/11/10/microsofts-new-lumia-535-costs-140-and-is-its-first-non-nokia-smartphone/
• http://www.microsoft.com/en/mobile/phone/lumia535/specifications/

Microsoft to announce their first self branded Lumia

Anyone that has gone to conversations on the the Microsoft's website may have noticed a teaser for a new Lumia device. When looking at the teaser you will notice the absence of the Nokia brand name. In the name's place is the date 11.11.2014. The date hints that on Tuesday, Veteran's day, Microsoft will unveil a new Lumia device that will now be under the Microsoft brand.

Even though Microsoft is keeping this new mobile device under wraps the Verge uncovered leaks on a Chinese website hinting that the new Lumia could be a low-end smartphone similar to the Lumia 530. If this is the case it will be the 5^th in a line of affordable Loumias that include the 530;630;730, the “selfie phone” and 830. That would suggest that this new one would be the 930. Given that Microsoft is putting their own name on the phone they might change the number sequence.

You might wonder why Microsoft has eliminated the nokia brand name from the new Lumia device. The first thought might be that Microsoft did this out of vanity buy that would be a wrong guess. The truth is that when Microsoft purchased the mobile division of Nokia they made an agreement, as shown in a leaked report by The Register, that they must discontinue using the Nokia name by the end of 2015. By making the change now that gives Microsoft a little over a year to purge all of the old stock of Nokia brand Lumia before the 2015 deadline.

The purchase of Nokia's mobile division was given the final approval buy the stockholders of the Finland-based company thereby completing the purchase made by former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. Once the deal was finalized it made the Redmond-based Microsoft the number 2 mobile phone manufacturer behind only the Korean-based Samsung. Whether or not this will give the Redmond-based giant a boost in the mobile marketshare is still yet to be seen.

Other articles on this topic:

• http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/387312/scitech/technology/microsoft-s-1st-nokia-free-lumia-out-nov-11-report
• http://www.theregister.co.uk/2014/11/07/microsofts_first_lumia/
• http://www.geekwire.com/2014/microsoft-lumia-nokia/
• http://www.theverge.com/2014/11/3/7149143/first-lumia-with-microsoft-branding-leak

Review: Top Secret Twenty-one

Top Secret Twenty-One by Janet Evanivich is the 25^th book starring inept bounty hunter Stephanie Plum. As always there is plenty going on to keep the reader's eyes glued to the pages as they find themselves roaming the streets of New Jersey. You will find yourself walking into the bail bonds office with Stephanie as she picks up her latest FTA (failure to appear) paperwork, riding with her and Lula, tagging along on a date with here sometimes boyfriend or many of the other adventures that are the world of Stephanie Plum.

If things weren't bad enough in Stephanie's everyday life of getting stunned, explosions, she finds that vodka can kill and helping out a friend can be dangerous. The friend is old acquaintance Randy Briggs who Stephanie takes in after his apartment is blown up. The vodka comes in as Stephanie helps Ranger track down the man threatening his life and everyone around him. You will find it hard to put the book down as you follow Stephanie as she juggles all this along with finding time for a somewhat normal life.

Along with Stephanie Plum, Ms. Evanovich brings back our usual cast of characters. There is Lula, the former ho' turned file clerk and Stephanie's part-time assistant bounty hunter; Ranger, former special forces, security and surveillance expert; Joe Morelli, Stephanie's on-and-off boyfriend and Trenton cop; granny Mauzer and others.

I would recommend this book for anyone that has enjoyed the rest of the series, people like bounty hunter or police chases or just a good comedy/adventure book. If you fit into any of those categories then you will find this book well worth your time and money.  

U.S Navy to get mine killing drone by 2016

For almost as long as there have been Navies there have been underwater mines. The first mines were probably an iron vessels filled with gunpowder used in 14^th century China. Over the centuries naval mines haven't changed much other they have become bigger, harder to detect and more sophisticated at detonation.

Whether it was those or the more modern underwater mines avoiding them or destroying them safely has always been a big problem. The United States Navy is on a solution this problem. By sometime in 2016 they expect to have the first prototype of their 40-foot surface skimming drone that will seek out and destroy underwater mines safely.

“UISS is a program to satisfy the Navy’s need for rapid, wide-area mine-clearance capability to neutralize magnetic and acoustic mines. We can hunt for mines, sweep mines and neutralize them,” Captain David Honabach explained.

The 40-foot unmanned vessel will be designed to launch from the back of the navy's Littoral combat ship (LCS). Once the drone is launch it trolls a underwater cable that mimics resonance and magnetic pull of a warship. The mines are fooled into thinking the drone is its target and therefore allowing the drone to dentenated the mine while the rest of the navy is watching from a safe distance.

“Mines have different triggers. Some mines will detonate with an acoustic trigger and some with a magnetic trigger – and some with both. We generate a magnetic field that emulates a warship and we acoustically emulate a warship,” Capt. Honabach said. “We use a Mark 104 acoustic generator and a magnetic cable that trails behind the boat with an electric current that passes through it.”

In September of this year contractor Textron Systems was awarded a $118 million dollar contract to develop the drone within two year. They will then supply the United States Navy more of these vessels over the next 3 years.

Review: Cataclysm

It is not often that a book will make you say “Wow! I didn't expect”. Karice Bolton's Cataclysm is such a book. Cataclysm is the aptly named conclusion to Ms. Bolton's supernatural adventure Watcher's trilogy. In the book we continue to follow fallen angels/white demons Ana, Athen, Arie and Cyril as prepare to lead their fellow white demon into the climatic battle against Azazel and his army of dark demons. From the very start of the book you be hooked as there is a seamless transition from the end of the previous book Legions. There is plenty of action that keeps your attention as our heroic group uncover and attempt to thwart Azazel's plan of building up hs army while raising their own forces.

As always Ms. Bolton adds a cast of rich vibrant characters to an ever-growing cast. One of these new characters is Noah, a white demon that lost his soul-mate to the forces of darkness, who proves himself as a valuable to the group with his skills at intelligence gathering. Returning is the evil seductress Lilith who we first meet in the Awakening in one of Ana's vision. Topping off this cast is our heroine Ana the eternal optimist that finds the power to make her visions come true.

One of my favorite scenes is when Ana first discovers the way that the dark demons are building their army by turning humans. At first she is shocked and horrified at the sight she is witnessing. She later realize though that with the help of the other white demons they can use this to their advantage.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone that has read the other two books, likes romance, adventure, supernatural or believes in the existence of angels & demons.

Why did Amazon's Fire phone fail?

In today's mobile age of technology you don't have long to make a splash in the marketplace. So when your new mobile device has only sold 35,00 units, been the main cause of a $170 million dollar write-off and you still have $83 million dollars worth of inventory in limbo all after just 3 months it is time take a look at what went wrong. This the problem that Seattle-based Amazon faces after their first attempt at enter the smartphone marketplace didn't quite go as planned. Now they need to ask themselves: What went wrong? Can we salvage this or do we need to start over?

Shortly after Jeff Bezos first announced the Fire smartphone in June the critics started their attacks. Their was talk that limiting it an AT&T exclusive was a big mistake, others cited that users will not want to abandon their android smartphones for an offshoot that has less apps and the smartphone is just poorly constructed inside and out. Where the critics right from the start? Was Amazon that far off base with their smartphone? On the first two it seems the critics were right on the mark.

Even thought the iPhone was a success when it started out as an AT&T exclusive that was in 2007 when the smartphone market was still in the growing stages. In 2014 with the smartphone market more developed it seems that the days of exclusives are over. Looking at the marketshare of mobile device it does appear that the quality and quantity of available apps does matter. While Amazon uses android as the base for their operating system has been altered to the point that it can not use the apps from Google play and is limited to what is available in Amazon's app store. On the third criticism the verdict is sort of a mixed bag with some people split on the outward design of the smartphone. The two problems here seem to be the interface that is constantly moving your apps with their last used functionality and the lack of popular apps.

All of these problem can be overcome but to what cost to Amazon? The interface problem could be just a matter of a simple update. The amount of apps that the smartphone can use might be a little more with either Amazon going to start android or speed up the rate of app compatibility. The carrier problem could just be a matter of unlocking the smartphone altogether so a wider group can use it.

Related articles worth looking at:

• http://techcrunch.com/2014/10/23/amazon-fire-phone-flops/
• http://www.forbes.com/sites/ianmorris/2014/10/24/amazon-fire-phone-a-review-of-the-device-that-just-cost-amazon-170-million-dollars/
• http://www.geekwire.com/2014/amazon-takes-170m-loss-fire-phone/