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Thursday, January 03, 2013

It's All Politics

After Upset Win, House Freshman Looks To Make A Name For Himself

Then-candidate Eric Swalwell speaks as Rep. Pete Stark, D-Calif., walks offstage during an endorsement meeting at the Alameda County Democratic Lawyers Club in Oakland, Calif., in September.

January 3, 2013 KQEDCalifornia Democrat Eric Swalwell, one of the youngest new members of Congress, defeated a 40-year incumbent for his seat. But his first challenge in Washington might be getting people to pronounce his name correctly.

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Around the Nation

Superstorm Sandy Brings One Family Closer

The day after their neighborhood was flooded, the Hardys returned to their house to start bagging up the garbage. The contents of the fridge were spread all over the kitchen floor and even outside. There were sausages in the street. The kitchen floor was a mess of muddy puddles.

January 3, 2013 WNYCThe Hardy family goes back generations in a tiny neighborhood called Gerritsen Beach in Brooklyn. For them, Superstorm Sandy has created an extended family reunion. Not only is their small, barely livable home bursting with family members — the storm brought an emotional change, as well.

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Television

'Downton Abbey' Cast: It's More Fun Downstairs

Hugh Bonneville (left) stars as Lord Grantham and Jim Carter as Mr. Carson, the formidable butler of Downton Abbey.

January 3, 2013 NPR's David Greene speaks with Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Joanne Froggatt, Sophie McShera, Jim Carter and Rob James-Collier — all cast members of the British TV hit Downton Abbey. The third season premieres in the U.S. Sunday on PBS.

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Europe

Prime Minister Finds Soap Opera's Turkish Delights In Bad Taste

Eggs streak down a billboard advertising the popular Turkish soap opera The Magnificent Century. The show focuses on palace intrigue during the 16th-century rule of Suleiman the Magnificent. Some Islamists have protested the show's depiction of the sultan's harem.

January 3, 2013 The Magnificent Century, which explores the Ottoman Empire in all its 16th-century glory, is a big hit in Turkey. But the country's prime minister, an Islamist, is angry that the program focuses on palace intrigue involving the sultan and his harem.

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Africa

A Different Kind Of Combat In The Eastern Congo

Balezi Bagunda, who boxes under the name "Kibomango," lost one eye while fighting in a rebel militia he joined as a child. Now he trains other former child soldiers and street boys in the art of boxing and automobile mechanics.

January 3, 2013 Lacking ropes or a ring, young men who are part of a group called the Friendship Club are learning how to box. Some were child soldiers. It might seem odd that this sport could help former killers become better citizens or deal with their trauma. But their coach says boxing and fighting are as different as sports and war.

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The Record

Patti Page, Who Dominated The '50s Pop Charts, Dies

Patti Page — known for such songs as "Tennessee Waltz" and "How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?" — is seen here in 1958. Page died Tuesday at age 85.

January 3, 2013 Page had one of the biggest-selling singles ever with her version of "The Tennessee Waltz."

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It's All Politics

Democratic Leader Pelosi to GOP Colleagues: 'Take Back Your Party'

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks at a Dec. 19 news conference on Capitol Hill.

January 3, 2013 In an interview with NPR, Pelosi said the GOP has "made enormous contributions to the success of our country." But she added: "There are many members in the Republican caucus who do not believe in government. And bless their hearts, they act upon their beliefs."

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Wednesday, January 02, 2013

Television

Who's Gay On TV? Dads, Journalists, Investigators And Footmen

Partners Bryan (Andrew Rannells) and David (Justin Bartha) decide to use a surrogate to expand their family in The New Normal.

January 2, 2013 Neda Ulaby looks at the current landscape of gay characters on television, from the highest brows of Downton Abbey to the surprisingly welcoming world of reality shows.

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Shots - Health News

Research: A Little Extra Fat May Help You Live Longer

An analysis of many studies finds a small spare tire may be associated with longer life. But skeptics say that conclusion is rubbish.

January 2, 2013 An analysis from the Centers For Disease Control and Research finds that being overweight, but not obese, is associated with lower risk of death. But no one is suggesting you ditch your exercise or diet goals.

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