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CNN
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GOV JOB VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENTS are posted
at www.usdemocrats.com/ticker/jobs/
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Kansas Young Democrats State Committee
Meeting
Please join us at 11:00 am on Sep 19, 2009
in the Lawrence Public Library's Auditorium.
KYD has two pending resignations from the
Executive Committee:
Tyler Longpine, President
Chad Manspeaker, Treasurer
At this meeting we will elect a President.
For further details, please visit: http://tinyurl.com/kmgx3e
--------------------
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AHRQ's
2009 Annual Conference on September 13-16, 2009
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US-CERT Current Activity
Cisco Releases Security Advisory for
Unified Communications Manager
Original release date: August 27, 2009
at 8:20 am
Last revised: August 27, 2009 at 8:20 am
Cisco has released a Security Advisory
to address multiple
vulnerabilities in Cisco Unified Communication Manager. These
vulnerabilities may allow a remote attacker to cause a
denial-of-service condition.
US-CERT encourages users and administrators
to review Cisco Security
Advisory cisco-sa-20090826-cucm and apply any necessary updates.
Relevant Url(s):
<http://www.cisco.com/warp/public/707/cisco-sa-20090826-cucm.shtml>
====
This entry is available at
http://www.us-cert.gov/current/index.html#cisco_release_security_advisory_for
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FIL-48-2009:
Transaction Account Guarantee Extension - Third Quarter 2009
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New
GI Bill Will Heighten Professional Work Force
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 08:58:00 -0500
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Over
50 new vacancies posted for the US Department of Labor
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GEN
Petraeus Remarks
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:44:07 -0500
Commander of U.S. Central Command, General David Petraeus, was
one of many who offered their sympathy and admiration for Senator
Edward Kennedy who died on Tuesday.
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FDIC-Insured Institutions Lost $3.7
Billion in the Second Quarter of 2009
Total Reserves of the Deposit Insurance Fund Stood at $42 Billion
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 27, 2009 Media Contact:
Andrew Gray (202) 898-7192
angray@fdic.gov
Commercial banks and savings institutions
insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) reported
an aggregate net loss of $3.7 billion in the second quarter of
2009, a decline of $8.5 billion from the $4.8 billion in profits
the industry reported in the second quarter of 2008. Insured
institutions earned $424 million in net operating income during
this latest quarter even after a special assessment of $5.5 billion
to bolster the FDIC's insurance fund. However, one-time losses
and other items totaling $4.1 billion pulled the industry results
into negative territory.
"While challenges remain, evidence is building that the
U.S. economy is starting to grow again," said FDIC Chairman
Sheila Bair. "Banking industry performance is -- as always
-- a lagging indicator. The banking industry, too, can look forward
to better times ahead. But, for now, the difficult and necessary
process of recognizing loan losses and cleaning up balance sheets
continues to be reflected in the industry's bottom line."
Chairman Bair went on to say, "The FDIC was created specifically
for times such as these. No matter how challenging the environment,
the FDIC has ample resources to continue protecting depositors
as we have for the last 75 years. No insured depositor has ever
lost a penny of insured deposits...and no one ever will."
Provisions for loan losses totaled $66.9 billion in the quarter,
an increase of $16.5 billion (32.8 percent) over the second quarter
of 2008. Extraordinary losses stemming from writedowns of asset-backed
commercial paper totaled $3.6 billion, compared to extraordinary
losses of $366 million a year earlier. Noninterest expenses were
$1.7 billion (1.7 percent) higher, primarily due to increased
FDIC deposit insurance premiums.
Indicators of asset quality continued to worsen during the second
quarter. Both the quarterly net charge-off rate and the percentage
of loans and leases that were noncurrent (90 days or more past
due or in nonaccrual status) reached the highest levels registered
in the 26 years that insured institutions have reported these
data. Insured institutions charged off $48.9 billion in uncollectible
loans during the quarter, up from $26.4 billion a year earlier,
and noncurrent loans and leases increased by $40.4 billion during
the second quarter. At the end of June, noncurrent loans and
leases totaled $332 billion, or 4.35 percent of the industry's
total loans and leases.
"Deteriorating loan quality is having the greatest impact
on industry earnings as insured institutions continue to set
aside reserves to cover loan losses," Chairman Bair noted.
"Of all the major earnings components, the amount that insured
institutions added to their reserves for loan losses was, by
far, the largest drag on industry earnings compared to a year
ago."
All told, more than 28 percent of all insured institutions reported
a net loss in the second quarter, compared with 18 percent a
year earlier.
Financial results for the second quarter and first half of 2009
are contained in the FDIC's latest Quarterly Banking Profile,
which was released today. Also among the major findings:
Net interest margins improved in the quarter. The average margin
(the difference between the average yield on interest-earning
assets and the average interest expense of funding those assets)
rose to 3.48 percent from 3.39 percent in the first quarter and
3.37 percent in the second quarter of 2008. More than half of
all institutions reported higher margins than in the first quarter.
Net interest income totaled $100 billion in the quarter, up from
$96.6 billion a year earlier.
Net interest margins improved from the previous quarter at community
banks and at larger institutions. "This is good news for
community banks, since three-fourths of their revenues come from
net interest income," Chairman Bair said.
Total assets of insured institutions declined by $238 billion.
A $125.5 billion decline in loan and lease balances accounted
for more than half of the decline in total assets of insured
institutions during the second quarter. The 1.8 percent decline
in industry assets followed a $303.2 billion decline in the first
quarter of 2009. Banks' balances with Federal Reserve banks fell
by $99.4 billion (20.4 percent) during the quarter, and assets
in trading accounts declined by $65.5 billion (7.9 percent).
The industry's investment securities portfolio increased by $130.6
billion (5.9 percent).
The number of institutions on the FDIC's "Problem List"
rose. At the end of June, there were 416 insured institutions
on the "Problem List," up from 305 on March 31. This
is the largest number of institutions on the list since June
30, 1994, when there were 434 institutions on the list. Total
assets of "problem" institutions increased during the
quarter from $220.0 billion to $299.8 billion, the highest level
since December 31, 1993.
Total reserves of the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) stood at $42
billion. Just as insured institutions reserve for loan losses,
the FDIC has to provide for a contingent loss reserve for future
failures. To the extent that the FDIC has already reserved for
an anticipated closing, the failure of an institution does not
reduce the DIF balance. The contingent loss reserve, which totaled
$28.5 billion on March 31, rose to $32.0 billion as of June 30,
reflecting higher actual and anticipated losses from failed institutions.
Additions to the contingent loss reserve during the second quarter
caused the fund balance to decline from $13.0 billion to $10.4
billion. Combined, the total reserves of the DIF equaled $42.4
billion at the end of the quarter.
Chairman Bair distinguished the DIF's reserves from the FDIC's
cash resources, which included $22 billion of cash and U.S. Treasury
securities held as of June 30, as well as the ability to borrow
up to $500 billion from the Treasury. "A decline in the
fund balance does not diminish our ability to protect insured
depositors," Chairman Bair concluded.
# # #
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Federal
Grand Jury Returns Indictments
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FIL-49-2009:
Regulatory Capital Standards Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Regarding
Risk-Based Capital: Impact of Modifications to Generally Accepted
Accounting Principles, Consolidation of Asset-Backed Commercial
Paper Programs, and Other Related Issues
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The second quarter 2009
FDIC Quarterly Banking Profile (QBP) is now available online
FDIC-insured institutions reported an aggregate
net loss of $3.7 billion in the second quarter of 2009, a decline
of $8.5 billion from the $4.8 billion in profits the industry
reported in the second quarter of 2008. Insured institutions
earned $424 million in net operating income during this latest
quarter even after a special assessment of $5.5 billion to bolster
the FDIC's insurance fund. However, one-time losses and other
items totaling $4.1 billion pulled the industry results into
negative territory.
The QBP provides the earliest comprehensive summary of financial
results for all FDIC-insured institutions. This report card on
industry status and performance includes written analyses, graphs
and statistical tables. In addition to the QBP, you may be interested
in these other related products that have been updated to reflect
this quarter’s data:
Call and Thrift
Financial Reports
Complete bank Call Reports and savings institution Thrift Financial
Reports, including detailed balance sheets and income statements.
Institution Directory
Comprehensive financial and demographic data for individual FDIC-insured
institutions.
Statistics on Depository
Institutions
Financial analysis tool that provides custom peer group analysis
and data download capability.
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U.S.
Department of State Highlights: Security Seminar and Pittsburgh
Summit
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 08:00:00 -0500
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DoD
Identifies Marine Casualty
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 10:22:00 -0500
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adsense
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Department of Energy Announces More than
$8.4 Million for Regional Sequestration Technology Training Projects
Selected Projects Will Advance U.S. as Leader in Technology to
Address Climate Change
Washington, DC —U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven
Chu today announced more than $8.4 million in funding to develop
regional sequestration technology training projects. The seven
projects announced today will facilitate the transfer of knowledge
and technologies required for site development, operations, and
monitoring of commercial carbon capture and storage projects.
Today’s funding, which includes $6.9 million in Recovery
Act funds, will advance the United States in its position as
the leader in technology for addressing climate change and for
developing near-zero emission technologies to significantly reduce
CO2 emissions from power plants.
“These projects will train workers for a clean energy economy
and help position the United States as a leader in carbon capture
and storage technologies for years to come,” said Secretary
Chu.
The training activities will focus on the applied engineering
and science of carbon capture and storage for site developers,
geologists, engineers, and technicians, providing a technology
transfer platform for carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration. The
selected awards will produce the workforce necessary for the
CCS industry with skills and competencies in geology, geophysics,
geomechanics, geochemistry and reservoir engineering disciplines.
The selected projects successfully address five activity areas:
· Implement an Organized Sponsorship Development Program
– development of a self-sustained long term technology program,
without federal government support
· Short Courses on CCS Technologies – work with experts
in the field to identify and develop training materials for professionals
· Regional Training—Outreach and Networking –
conduct training of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies
· Perform Regional/Basin Technology Transfer Services
– transfer technology with various outreach materials and
coordination of regional/basin efforts
· Plan and Manage the Recipient’s Regional Program
The total funding value of today’s selections is approximately
$8.47 million over 3 years. The work will be managed by the National
Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL). The projects selected under
today’s announcement include:
Regional Sequestration Technology Training Projects:
• Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois (Champaign,
IL)—Create the Midwest Geological Sequestration Consortium
Sequestration Technology Training Center. Training will utilize
a modular multi-track approach allowing different professional
participants to customize individual programs. Training will
benefit the Illinois Basin region by providing curriculum, outreach,
and networking on five focal areas for carbon sequestration technology
development.
DOE share: $994,991; duration: 36 months.
• Environmental Outreach and Stewardship (EOS) Alliance(Seattle,
WA) —Facilitate development of a carbon capture and sequestration
workforce through regional CO2 sequestration technology training
in the northwest, focusing on 12 – 14 key topics related
to long-term underground CO2 storage. EOS will implement an organized
sponsorship program; develop short courses on CCS technologies;
provide regional training, outreach and networking; perform regional
technology transfer services; and plan and manage the regional
program. Courses will also cover the intricacies of storage in
basalts since they are found in the region.
DOE share: $995,000; duration: 36 months.
• New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (Socorro,
NM) —Develop the Southwestern U.S. Geologic CO2 Sequestration
Training Center. A holistic approach will be utilized to conduct
outreach and training for current professionals, inclusive of
industry, non-governmental organizations, the general public
and media. The training will also engage students at all levels
in life, from K-12 to college students, and provide training
and tools to secondary education teachers.
DOE share: $994,219; duration: 36 months.
• Petroleum Technology Transfer Council (Tulsa, OK)—PTTC
Regional Technology Training Program will focus on the development
and delivery of technology training for the Permian Basin. Multiple
methods to transfer knowledge include regional workshops, an
extended CCS course, research-oriented workshop, online certificate
program, and webinars/e-symposia.
DOE share: $994,998; duration: 36 months.
• Southern States Energy Board (SSEB) (Norcross, GA)—The
Southeast Regional CO2 Sequestration Technology Training Program
will develop short courses on CCS technologies, participate in
regional training and other activities through outreach and networking,
and perform internet-based and electronic regional/basin technology
transfer services. The training will address the most promising
sequestration options in the southeast region; various sources
of CO2; regional transportation infrastructure; and legal, regulatory
and institutional frameworks.
DOE share: $994,368; duration: 36 months.
• The University of Texas at Austin (Austin, TX)—Create
an alliance for Sequestration Training, Outreach, Research and
Education (STORE), as part of the Gulf Coast Carbon Center, to
promote the transfer of scientific knowledge and applied engineering
technologies related to CO2 storage in the Gulf Coast region.
The focus will be on four primary objectives needed for emerging
CCS industry in the gulf region including sequestration workforce
training, public outreach, research and technology dissemination,
and workforce pipeline education.
DOE share: $994,702; duration: 36 months.
• University of Wyoming (Laramie, WY) — Develop the
Wyoming CCS Technology Institute (WCTI) to implement training
and technology transfer in the Wyoming and Rocky Mountain regions.
The WCTI will utilize an industry-wide model to train a professional
workforce; provide pathways for graduates and professionals from
allied fields; and create a vehicle for communicating regional
CCS knowledge and technology within the growing industry.
DOE share: $994,910; duration: 36 months.
-DOE-
|
New
Mexico Gov. Richardson Says U.S. Travel Ban to Cuba Should End
Posted: 25 Aug 2009 05:00 PM PDT
By JAMES ANDERSON
SAN FRANCISCO DE PAULA, Cuba - New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson
said Wednesday that he's just a governor on a trade mission and
carries no message from the U.S. government as he visits Cuba
this week. But he does plan to report his impressions to President
Barack Obama.
|
U.S.
Urges Yemen to Go after Growing al-Qaida Threat
Posted: 26 Aug 2009 05:00 PM PDT
By LOLITA C. BALDOR
WASHINGTON - American authorities are pressuring Yemen to counter
a rising internal al-Qaida threat more aggressively and improve
intelligence-sharing amid growing worries that the country could
become the next significant terrorist staging ground.
|
Memos
Show CIA Pushed Limits on Sleep Deprivation
Posted: 26 Aug 2009 05:00 PM PDT
By PAMELA HESS and DEVLIN BARRETT
WASHINGTON - A year after the Bush administration abandoned its
harshest interrogation methods, CIA operatives used severe sleep
deprivation tactics against a terror detainee in late 2007, keeping
him awake for six straight days with permission from government
lawyers.
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Things
To Consider When Hiring A Contractor
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:44:32 -0500
FRANKFORT, Ky. -- "Be very cautious when hiring contractors
to repair storm-damaged property," say federal and Commonwealth
officials to Jefferson County survivors of the Aug.4 severe storms
and flooding.
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DNC
Asian American Pacific Islander Caucus Reception
"Meet your fellow Asian American Democrats!"
What: Club/Group Meeting
Host: Asian American Democrats of Texas
Start Time: Thursday, September 10 at 6:00pm
End Time: Thursday, September 10 at 8:00pm
Where: Chinatown Restaurant
To see more details and RSVP
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COMMERCE AND AGRICULTURE ANNOUNCE STRONG
DEMAND FOR FIRST ROUND OF FUNDING TO BRING BROADBAND, JOBS TO
MORE AMERICANS
Nearly 2,200 Diverse Applications Submitted
for Share of $4 Billion in Funding to Expand Broadband Access
and Adoption
WASHINGTON, August 27, 2009 - The Commerce
Department's National Telecommunications and Information Administration
(NTIA) and the Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Service
(RUS) announced today that they received almost 2,200 applications
requesting nearly $28 billion in funding for proposed broadband
projects reaching all 50 U.S. states and territories and the
District of Columbia. This is the first round of American Recovery
and Reinvestment Act funding aimed at expanding broadband access
and adoption to help bridge the technological divide and create
jobs building Internet infrastructure, with $4 billion available
through loans, grants, and loan/grant combinations.
The Recovery Act provided a total of $7.2
billion to NTIA and RUS to expand access to and adoption of broadband
services. Of that funding, NTIA will utilize $4.7 billion to
deploy broadband infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas
in the United States, expand public computer center capacity,
and encourage sustainable adoption of broadband service. RUS
will invest $2.5 billion to facilitate broadband deployment primarily
in rural communities. Approximately $2.4 billion from RUS and
up to $1.6 billion from NTIA is available in this first grant
round.
Applications came in from a diverse range
of parties including state, local, and tribal governments; nonprofits;
industry; anchor institutions, such as libraries, universities,
community colleges, and hospitals; public safety organizations;
and other entities in rural, suburban, and urban areas.
"Applicants requested nearly seven
times the amount of funding available, which demonstrates the
substantial interest in expanding broadband across the Nation,"
said Lawrence E. Strickling, Assistant Secretary for Communications
and Information and Administrator of NTIA. "We will move
quickly but carefully to fund the best projects to bring broadband
and jobs to more Americans."
"The overwhelming response we received
underscores the extensive interest in expanding broadband across
the country. Rural communities clearly recognize that broadband
can expand their economic opportunities and create jobs,"
said Jonathan Adelstein, Administrator, Rural Utilities Service,
USDA. "The Obama Administration's goal is to target funds
to serve areas of greatest need. The big demand for loans as
well as grants demonstrates that we can leverage private investment
with USDA's $2.5 billion to deliver the greatest bang for the
taxpayers' buck."
A preliminary analysis of applicant-reported
data shows that NTIA and RUS received requests for grants and
loans totaling nearly $28 billion. When including about $10.5
billion in matching funds committed by the applicants, there
are over $38 billion in proposed broadband projects.
The applications break down as follows:
Infrastructure
More than 260 applications were filed solely
with NTIA's Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP),
requesting over $5.4 billion in grants to fund broadband infrastructure
projects in unserved and underserved areas.
More than 400 applications were filed solely
with RUS's Broadband Initiatives Program (BIP), requesting nearly
$5 billion in grants and loans for broadband infrastructure projects
in rural areas.
More than 830 applications were filed with
both NTIA's BTOP and RUS's BIP, requesting nearly $12.8 billion
in infrastructure funding. (Applicants for infrastructure projects
in rural areas must apply to BIP but were given the opportunity
to jointly apply to BTOP in case RUS declines to fund their application.)
Sustainable Broadband Adoption
More than 320 applications were filed with
NTIA requesting nearly $2.5 billion in grants from BTOP for projects
that promote sustainable demand for broadband services, including
projects to provide broadband education, awareness, training,
access, equipment or support, particularly among vulnerable population
groups where broadband technology has traditionally been underutilized.
(The Recovery Act directs NTIA to make at least $250 million
available for programs that encourage sustainable adoption of
broadband services, of which up to $150 million is allocated
in this first round of grants.)
Public Computer Centers
More than 360 applications were filed with
NTIA requesting more than $1.9 billion in grants from BTOP for
public computer center projects, which will expand access to
broadband service and enhance broadband capacity at public libraries,
community colleges, and other institutions that provide the benefits
of broadband to the general public or specific vulnerable populations.
(The Recovery Act directs NTIA to make at least $200 million
available for expanding public computer center capacity, of which
up to $50 million is allocated in this first round of grants.)
In the coming weeks, NTIA and RUS will
post online a searchable database containing summaries of all
applications received. The dollar figures cited today represent
applicants' self-reported totals from proposals submitted before
the August 20, 2009, deadline at 5 p.m. ET. These results are
preliminary estimates, however, and may change as the applications
are reviewed for errors, omissions, and duplications.
#
|
|
FAST FACT: News on the Recovery and
Reinvestment Act
Did you know...
This summer, Recovery Act funds were used to begin work on 200
new waste and water systems in rural America. These projects
will replace outdated water mains and build waste-water treatment
facilities for small communities to help ensure families have
clean water.
[Source: White House Recovery Office]
###
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|
Homeland
Security Leadership Journal for U.S. Department of Homeland Security
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
NASA
Accepting Applications for Aeronautics Scholarship Awards
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:00:00 -0500
NASA's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate will begin accepting
scholarship applications on Sept. 1, 2009, for the 2010 academic
year.
|
Somali
Pirates Fire on Navy Helicopter
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:02:00 -0500
|
Center
Works With Warfighters to Assess Systems
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:02:00 -0500
|
|
Denver
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
NRC
to Hold Public Meeting on Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station
|
VACANCY:
Program Analyst (Task Monitor), GS-0301-11
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:55:16 -0500
DE-09-480-SSM2 (Closing Date: Thu, 3 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EDT)
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|
New Jersey Young Democrats: What you
can do to help President Obama!
On Wednesday, in the wake of losing our
biggest health insurance reform advocate, Senator Ted Kennedy,
YDA Executive Vice President Rod Snyder and Political Director
Hailey Snow met at the White House with the Administration to
learn about the impact the health care epidemic is having on
young Americans.
The White House briefer just said: "November
4th was just the election day. Our victories meant nothing unless
we are able to mobilize young people around meaningful reform
that will help all Americans."
It's as simple as that. We can't afford
to wait on health insurance reform. The White House explained
that health insurance reform is the building block to obtain
momentum for all future issues on the President's agenda. This
is the first major test of our ability to bring about real change.
Will you do your part by taking the pledge
at http://yda.org/healthpledge?
14,000 Americans lose their health insurance
on a daily basis and those fortunate enough to have health insurance
have seen their premiums double. President Obama has asked for
our help. So, the question is: What are you doing to make sure
Congress hears that young Americans are demanding health insurance
reform now?
We need to be writing our legislators,
sending letters to our local papers, showing our presence at
the town hall meetings, and talking to anyone that will listen
about the importance of quality affordable health care. Can you
pledge at http://yda.org/healthpledge
to take at least one action to help fight for health care?
This is our first major test. Let's not
fail President Obama, the Americans that voted for change, and
most importantly let's not let ourselves down. Don't sit idly
by and live the rest of your life knowing that you didn't take
the time to do something important for yourself and your entire
generation.
Help pass health insurance reform today.
Take the pledge at http://yda.org/healthpledge.
P.S. Please encourage your friends and
family to visit http://yda.org/healthpledge
and join you in taking this important action.
--------------------
|
|
Young Democrats of Georgia State University
Events coming up
Hey everyone, here are some upcoming events
I found on Organizing for America that y'all might be interested
in. I'll give the links--RSVPing is easy!
Declarations and MARTA Stations, Saturday
August 29, arrive at 10 or 12, North Springs MARTA Station
Bring your Obama gear, get on MARTA, and gather signatures in
support of healthcare reform. Canvassing, but on public transport.
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/communityservice/gpfkth
Tom Price townhall, Tuesday September 1,
7-8, Roswell High School
Tom Price is a Republican House member who is against healthcare
reform. If you live around the Roswell area or fancy a little
drive, why not go, support reform, and holler louder than those
townhall crashing fools you see on the news?
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/letsgetitdonehealthinsurancereformnowevents/gpk4cr
Let's Get It Done Event, Thursday September
3, 12-1:30, at the Capitol. It's a rally, so if you have no midday
classes or just feel like a change of scenery, make the short
walk from GSU down to the Capitol ;)
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/healthinsurancereformnow/gpfzwg
Another march for healthcare, Sunday September
13, 12-3, location TBA
Demand a public option. Do it for Teddy!
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/healthcareorganizingevent/gpfklx
Organizing for America continues to update
with new events all over the area. I just plugged in my own zip
code--Decatur--to search.
We're still working on figuring out a social
event until the next meeting. Keep watching this space. :)
Emma Harger
VP for Membership
--------------------
|
Former
Texas Correctional Officer Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for
Providing False Statements in Civil Rights Case
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:30:39 -0500
Eugene Morris, a former correctional officer with the Texas Department
of Criminal Justice, was sentenced today in federal court in
Houston for providing a false statement related to a federal
civil rights investigation. Morris was sentenced to two years
in prison and two years of supervised release.
|
Former
Sand and Gravel Subcontractor Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison
After Conspiracy and Bribery Conviction in Connection with a
Levee Reconstruction Project
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:39:38 -0500
A former sand and gravel subcontractor was sentenced today to
serve five years in prison and to pay a $5,000 criminal fine
by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier after being convicted
by a federal jury of conspiracy and bribery in connection with
a $16 million hurricane protection project for the reconstruction
a New Orleans levee.
|
|
Privacy
Impact Assessments (PIA) for U.S. Department of Homeland Security
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Videos
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:22:49 -0500
Inauguration of the North Dakota Air Branch; CBP Launches Newest
Unmanned Aircraft in Arizona; and CBP Air and Marine Operations
in McAllen, Texas.
|
New
Directives on Border Searches of Electronic Media
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 06:00:00 -0500
Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano announced new directives
to enhance and clarify oversight for searches of computers and
other electronic media at U.S. ports of entry—a critical
step designed to bolster the Department’s efforts to combat
transnational crime and terrorism while protecting privacy and
civil liberties.
|
|
Defense
Trade Advisory Group Seeks New Members for 2010-2012 Term
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
August 27, 2009
|
The
Bureau of Consular Affairs, Passport Services (ISP-I-09-34) July
09
|
Spokane,
Washington Man Indicted on Civil Rights Charges Related to Threats
to Reproductive Health Services Clinic
|
|
Alabama Stonewall Democrats Runoff elections
Runoff elections are October 6. Let's remember
our endorsed candidates.
Carol Duncan Council 2
Johnathan Austin Council 5
Elisa Burns-Macon BOE 3
Congratulations to Virginia Volker, our
endorsed candidate who won BOE 2 .
--------------------
|
|
Harris
County Democratic Party Rally For Healthcare Reform
"Let's Get It Done: Health Insurance Reform Now Rally! "
What: Rally
Host: Harris County Democratic Party
Start Time: Thursday, September 3 at 6:30pm
End Time: Thursday, September 3 at 8:30pm
Where: Houston City Hall Reflecting Pool
To see more details and RSVP
|
Secretary
Napolitano's Remarks at the 2009 Fire-Rescue International Conference
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 06:00:00 -0500
Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano delivered remarks to 2,500
first responders and emergency managers at the International
Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) 2009 Fire-Rescue International
Conference in Dallas, Texas, stressing preparedness as a shared
responsibility between all levels of government, the private
sector, communities and individuals.
|
Military
Social Media
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:16:38 -0500
Led by its Commandant, Admiral Thad Allen, the U.S. Coast Guard
has embraced social media.
|
Leaders
to Draw From Defense Board's NSPS Review
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:39:00 -0500
|
DoD
Chairman Cites Urgent Need for Brain Injury Treatments
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:56:00 -0500
|
U.S.
Department of State Background Notes : Guinea (08/09)
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 13:53:26 -0500
|
Secretary
Sebelius Releases New Report: America's Seniors and Health Insurance
Reform: Protecting Coverage and Strengthening Medicare
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:01:00 -0500
The report highlights the problems with the status quo that leave
seniors paying escalating costs for their health care while outlining
how health insurance reform will strengthen Medicare and protect
coverage for seniors.
|
|
Secretary Napolitano, FEMA Administrator
Fugate Swear In Kelvin Cochran As Fire Administrator
Release Date: August 27, 2009
Release Number: HQ-09-104
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Fire Administrator
Kelvin Cochran was sworn into office today by U.S. Department
of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and FEMA Administrator
Craig Fugate at the International Association of Fire Chiefs
(IAFC) 2009 Fire-Rescue International Conference in Dallas, Texas.
Cochran will oversee and lead the coordination and direction
of national efforts to prevent fires and improve fire response.
Cochran will supervise fire prevention and safety education programs
and professional development opportunities for emergency responders
at all levels of government.
"Our first responders are an essential component in our
effort to assist Americans in the wake of major disasters,"
said Fugate. "Kelvin's extensive experience as former fire
chief in Atlanta and Shreveport, makes him the ideal candidate
to take over this important post. I congratulate him and look
forward to working together as we continue to expand our national
emergency response team, a team that includes federal agency
partners, members of the private sector, volunteer organizations
and most importantly, the public."
Cochran has twenty-eight years of experience in the fire service
including fire fighting, emergency medical services, hazardous
materials, public education, personnel management, and administration,
with a specialization in training and strategic planning.
Prior to joining FEMA, Cochran served as Fire Chief for the City
of Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, where he coordinated homeland
security and emergency preparedness initiatives between the City
of Atlanta and the Atlanta Fulton County Emergency Management
Agency (AFCEMA) and oversaw 35 fires stations providing fire,
rescue and emergency medical services.
Previously, he served in the Shreveport, La. Fire Department
as a firefighter, Assistant Chief Training Officer, and Fire
Chief. Cochran also served as President of the Metropolitan Fire
Chiefs Association, the 1st Vice President of the International
Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and Vice Chairman of Volunteers
of America (VOA).
For more information please visit: www.fema.gov/about/bios/kcochran.shtm
FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders
to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain,
and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond
to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
|
Defense
Secretary Media Events Announced
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:16:00 -0500
|
VACANCY:
Program Analyst (Task Monitor), GS-0301-11
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:55:16 -0500
DE-09-480-SSM2 (Closing Date: Thu, 3 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EDT)
|
VACANCY:
Natural Hazards Program Specialist, GS-0301-11/12
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 10:22:21 -0500
AN277413 (Closing Date: Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EDT)
|
Background
Notes : Nicaragua (08/09)
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:44:46 -0500
|
|
Recent
News Releases for Federal Election Commission
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Climate,
Environment, and Conservation: Interview With Aziz Haniffa of
India Abroad
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:17:09 -0500
|
Cygnus
X-1: Still a "Star"
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:00:00 -0500
Since its discovery 45 years ago, Cygnus X-1 has been one of
the most intensively studied cosmic X-ray sources.
|
DoD
Contracts for August 27, 2009
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:05:00 -0500
|
Today
in the Department of Defense, 8/28/2009
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:05:00 -0500
|
DoD
Identifies Army Casualties
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:49:00 -0500
|
'Sons
of Iraq' Gain Iraqi Government Jobs
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:59:00 -0500
|
Missile
Defense Technology Moves from Testing to Fielding
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:09:00 -0500
|
Around
the Services
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:25:35 -0500
Changes to federal employment rules will make it easier for military
spouses to find work. Plus, Somali pirates open fire on a Navy
chopper.
|
ADM
Thad Allen Remarks
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:55:58 -0500
|
Stanford
Financial Group CFO Pleads Guilty to Role in $7 Billion Fraud
Scheme
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:18:54 -0500
James M. Davis, the former chief financial officer of Houston-based
Stanford Financial Group, pled guilty to fraud and obstruction
charges related to a $7 billion scheme to defraud investors.
|
Michigan
Physical Therapist Pleads Guilty in Medicare Fraud Scheme
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:41:27 -0500
Detroit area physical therapist Jay Jha pled guilty to participating
in a conspiracy to defraud the Medicare program of approximately
$18.3 million by causing more than $1.6 million in fraudulent
billing.
|
Texas
Correctional Officer Sentenced in Civil Rights Case
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:27:52 -0500
Eugene Morris, a former correctional officer with the Texas Department
of Criminal Justice, was sentenced in Houston to two years in
prison for providing a false statement related to a federal civil
rights investigation.
|
H1N1
Update
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:08:18 -0500
The nation's top health officials are warning the public about
what is expected to be an active flu season ahead.
|
|
Hello Everyone,
First off, I hope you semester is starting
off strong!! We have a lot of wonderful things we want to get
taken care of this year but we need your help! I am currently
looking to revamp the Young Democrats at GSU and I am looking
for new leadership!!
If you are interested in a position on
the YOUNG DEMOCRATS executive board...please message me back
ASAP or email me at ashleydlondon1@gmail.com.
Thanks in advance,
Ashley London
--------------------
|
HUD
AUCTION: Clay Hill Apts. 1713 Main Street Hartford, CT 06120
|
HUD
AUCTION: Northside Manor Apts. 1451 Northside Dr. Memphis, TN
38127
|
HUD
AUCTION: Marigold Apts. 109 E. Marigold Street Munhall, PA 15120
|
HUD
AUCTION: Homestead Apts. 331 East 9th Avenue Homestead, PA 15120
|
U.S.
Department of State : Daily Press Briefing - August 27
Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:43:07 -0500
|
|
Glynn County Democratic Party September
General Meeting
"The Glynn County Democratic Party
will hold a general meeting on Monday evening, 7:00 pm September
21, 2009. The meeting will be held in the Parish hall of St.
William’s Catholic Church, 2300 Frederica Road, St. Simons
Island.
We hope to see you then!"
|
|
Update on Friday's celebration
The OFA will not be allowing people to
bring signs to this event, because it is a celebration, not a
rally. I am sorry if you have made signs. Please save any signs
for the SEIU Health Care Reform rally and memorial for those
who died from lack of health care, on Wednesday September 2nd
at Confluence Park, 6:30 -8:30pm.
Hope to see you at one or both of these
great events!
Nancy
|
|
College
graduates struggle with high-interest student loans
Posted: 02:41 AM ET
By Moni Basu
CNN
(CNN) — Kristin Schlaud brimmed with
pride when she became the first in her blue-collar family to
make it to college. But three years after law school, she is
completely broke, saddled with almost a quarter-million dollar
debt.
|
Iran’s
supreme leader: U.S., Britain not to blame for post-election
violence
Posted: 03:59 AM ET
TEHRAN, Iran (CNN) — Foreign influences are not to blame
for Iran’s post-election violence, the nation’s supreme
leader said Wednesday, according to state-run media.
|
Texas
Executed Innocent Man
Chicago Tribune: "In a withering critique, a nationally
known fire scientist has told a state commission on forensics
that Texas fire investigators had no basis to rule a deadly house
fire was an arson -- a finding that led to the murder conviction
and execution of Cameron Todd Willingham."
|
|
Perfect
Happiness
In 2006, Vanity Fair asked Sen. Ted Kennedy, "What is your
idea of perfect happiness?"
His response: "Sailing on Mya with
Vicki at my side and my dogs, Splash and Sunny, at my feet. And,
of course, a Democrat in the White House and regaining our majority
in the Senate."
|
|
Kennedy's
Memoir Out Next Month
Sen. Ted Kennedy's memoir, True Compass, is due to be published
next month.
A statement from his publisher: "We
are deeply saddened by today's news. In the final years of his
life, we had the honor of working with Senator Kennedy on his
autobiography, True Compass. He worked valiantly to finish the
book and make it the best it could be. As always, he was true
to his word. The result is a great and inspiring legacy to readers
everywhere, a case study in perseverance. We look forward to
sharing it with the world."
|
|
Obama
issues proclamation in Kennedy's honor
Posted: August 26th, 2009 02:08 PM ET
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Senator Edward M. Kennedy was not only
one of the greatest senators of our time, but one of the most
accomplished Americans ever to serve our democracy. Over the
past half-century, nearly every major piece of legislation that
has advanced the civil rights, health, and economic well-being
of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts.
With his passing, an important chapter in our American story
has come to an end.
As a mark of respect for the memory of
Senator Edward M. Kennedy, I hereby order, by the authority vested
in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America,
that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff
at
the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at
all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels
of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout
the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset
on August 30, 2009. I also direct that the flag of the United
States shall be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of
his interment. I further direct that the flag shall be flown
at half-staff for the same periods at all United States embassies,
legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including
all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set
my hand this twenty-sixth day of August, in the year of our Lord
two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States
of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
BARACK OBAMA
|
Obama
praises Kennedy as ‘extraordinary leader’
Posted: 09:31 PM ET
(CNN) — President Barack Obama on Wednesday said the death
of Sen. Ted Kennedy marks the “passing of an extraordinary
leader.”
|
|
Health-care
bill could mandate insurance for illegal immigrants, report says
Posted: 09:46 PM ET
By Mariano Castillo
CNN
(CNN) — Immigrants living illegally
in the United States could be mandated to have health insurance
under the proposed health-care reform bill, but would be ineligible
to receive subsidies to afford such coverage, a report released
Tuesday by the Congressional Research Service says.
|
Kennedy
funeral to be held Saturday
Posted: 12:33 AM ET
BOSTON, Massachusetts (CNN) — Funeral services for Sen.
Edward Kennedy will be Saturday morning at a Boston church before
his burial in Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington,
his office announced Wednesday.
|
|
Political
shift in store as disgruntled Japanese prepare to vote
Posted: 01:50 AM ET
By Kyung Lah
CNN
TOKYO, Japan (CNN) — The recession’s
latest victim in Japan may not be corporate earnings but the
political careers of the ruling party in the country’s parliament.
|
Statement
by the National Security Advisor General James L. Jones on the
passing of Senator Kennedy
As a young Senate Liaison officer during the early 1980’s,
I had the opportunity to get to know Senator Edward Kennedy who
was then a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Senator
Kennedy and his staff were among some of the best supporters
the Marine Corps ever had on Capitol Hill.
|
Remarks
by the Vice President on the Passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy
|
Remarks
by the President on the Passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy
|
Senator
Kennedy
Posted by Jesse Lee
|
"One
of the Most Accomplished Americans Ever to Serve our Democracy"
Posted by Jesse Lee
|
Joe
Biden: “He Made Them More Graceful By the Way in Which he
Conducted Himself”
Posted by Jesse Lee
|
The
Council on Women and Girls' new site
Posted by Christina M. Tchen
|
A
Proclamation, a Photo Gallery
Posted by Jesse Lee
|
|
Flu.gov
Webcast on H1N1 and Pregnant Women
Posted by Jesse Lee
If you read the report or even skimmed
the headlines coming out of Monday's findings on H1N1 from the
President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, you
probably have a good idea of why the Administration has been
so insistent on highlighting this issue even as it has largely
faded into the media background.
|
|
The
Cabinet Honors Senator Kennedy
Posted by Jesse Lee
It is no coincidence that for all of the
diversity in President Obama’s Cabinet, virtually every
member has been touched in a profound way by the life of Senator
Ted Kennedy. Below is a sample of statements that have been issued
today.
|
|
Tarullo
Speech on The Community Affairs Function at the Federal Reserve
from FRB: Speeches and Testimony
Speech at the Interagency Community Affairs Conference, Arlington,
Virginia
|
Written
agreement with Virginia Business Bank
|
Federal
Reserve Board alerts public to instances of fraudulent solicitations
directed at consumers
|
Agencies
seek comment on proposed regulatory capital standards related
to adoption of Statements of Financial Accounting Standards No.
166 and 167
|
|
FTC
Settlement Bars Seller's Deceptive 'Biodegradable' Claims
from Federal Trade Commission (FTC) - Consumer
Protection Press Releases
A retailer of rayon towels will be barred from making false claims
that mislead consumers into thinking that its products are "biodegradable,"
under a proposed settlement with the Federal Trade Commission.
|
|
VIDEO:
Joseph Williams, Boston Globe, Washington Deputy Bureau Chief
from C-SPAN Recent Video
Boston Globe reporter Joseph Williams recollects on the passing
of Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA).
Length:
Published: Wednesday at 7am (ET)
|
|
VIDEO:
Pres. Obama Statement on the Passing of Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA)
from C-SPAN Recent Video
Pres. Obama made a statement on the passing of Senator Edward
Kennedy (D-MA). Sen. Kennedy was diagnosed with a malignant brain
tumor in May of 2008.
Length: 3 min.
Published: Wednesday at 9:30am (ET)
|
|
VIDEO:
State Department Press Briefing Wed August 26 2009
from C-SPAN Recent Video
Special Middle East Envoy George Mitchell released a statement
touting good progress on efforts to restart the peace process.
The statement was also signed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu. State Department Spokesman Ian Kelly begins this daily
briefing with a statement on the death of Senator Ted Kennedy.
Length: 29 min.
Published: Wednesday at 12:30pm (ET)
|
|
VIDEO:
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) Statement on Passing of Sen. Edward Kennedy
(D-MA)
from C-SPAN Recent Video
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) made a statement on
the passing of Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA). Sen. Kennedy was
diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in May of 2008. (Courtesy
KVVU-TV)
Length: 7 min.
Published: Wednesday at 1:10pm (ET)
|
|
VIDEO:
Tom Scully, Fmr. Dir. of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services
from C-SPAN Recent Video
Fmr. Director for Medicare & Medicaid Services Tom Scully
talks about Medicare Part A and how it works with hospital insurance.
He is joined by Alex Wayne, a health care reporter at CQPolitics.com.
Length: 57 min.
Published: Wednesday at 7:30am (ET)
|
|
VIDEO:
FCC Workshops on Developing a National Broadband Plan
from C-SPAN Recent Video
Throughout August and September, the FCC is holding a series
of workshops to support the Commissioners as they draw up a national
broadband plan. These sessions focused on broadband's impact
on the economy, especially in rural areas, and on skills training
and job hunting. The Recovery Act calls for a plan to be submitted
to Congress by Feb. 17, 2010.
Length:
Published: Wednesday at 9:30am (ET)
|
|
VIDEO:
Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse Releases 2009 Teen Survey
on Substance Abuse
from C-SPAN Recent Video
The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at
Columbia University released its 14th annual teen survey on attitudes
toward substance abuse. Among its findings, the report notes
the ease with which teens can procure prescription drugs, and
the link between drinking and drug use.
Length: 31 min.
Published: Wednesday at 10am (ET)
|
|
VIDEO:
Potomac Forum Symposium on the Gov't. & Social Networking
from C-SPAN Recent Video
On his first day in office, Pres. Obama directed federal agencies
to become more transparent and encourage citizen participation.
The Potomac Forum held a symposium on social networking tools
and other Internet techniques to implement the President’s
Gov 2.0 initiative. The afternoon sessions focused on best practices
for engaging the public.
Length:
Published: Wednesday at 1:15pm (ET)
|
|
Los
Angeles County Young Democrats Laurel Awards
"SAVE THE DATE!"
What: Fundraiser
Host: Los Angeles County Young Democrats
Start Time: Wednesday, October 28 at 6:15pm
End Time: Wednesday, October 28 at 9:15pm
Where: TBA
To see more details and RSVP
|
|
Los
Angeles County Young Democrats: Fundraising Committee Meeting
"Logistics Meeting"
What: Club/Group Meeting
Host: Los Angeles County Young Democrats
Start Time: Tuesday, September 8 at 6:30pm
End Time: Tuesday, September 8 at 8:00pm
Where: Liberty Grill
To see more details and RSVP
|
The August 17 Technical
Assistance Conference Call for AHRQ Developing Prospective
Practice-based Comparative Effectiveness Research Clinical Registries:
Orthopedic Devices, Drugs, and Procedures (P50) has been posted.
|
|
"Come
Together"
Scott Gration
Special Envoy to Sudan
Washington, DC
August 25, 2009
|
Privacy
Act Statement - DHS' Use of Your Information (PDF, 1 page - 9 KB)
|
Defense
Department Web Site Eases Information Delivery
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:37:00 -0500
|
|
ETA - Advisories - Training and Employment
Notices (TEN) for United States Department of Labor
TEN 8-09: Program Year 2008/Fiscal Year
2009 Performance Reporting and Data Validation Timelines has
recently been added to the ETA Advisory database and is available
at http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?DOCN=2797.
|
Military
Must Leverage Technology, Vice Chairman Says
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:13:00 -0500
|
Engine
Program Aims to Meet Military's Need for Speed
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:28:00 -0500
|
Recovery
Act Information: Financial and Activity Report Weekly Update:
August 24, 2009
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:23:06 -0500
|
U.S.
Department of State Background Notes : Palau (08/09)
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:17:48 -0500
|
Homeowners
And Renters Need To Return SBA Application To Speed Disaster
Assistance
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:51:56 -0500
FRANKFORT, Ky. -- If you were affected by the Aug. 4 storms and
floods in Jefferson County and receive a U.S. Small Business
Administration home loan application, you should fill it out
and submit it - even if you don't want a loan.
|
ADM
Mullen at Legion Convention
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:37:03 -0500
The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff spoke Tuesday at the
American Legion Convention in Louisville, Kentucky.
|
|
FTA
Grants Digest for Federal Transit Administration
This information has recently been updated
with new Recovery grants totaling $189.8 million, and is now
available.
|
|
US-CERT Current Activity
Autonomy KeyView SDK Vulnerability
Original release date: August 26, 2009
at 9:47 am
Last revised: August 26, 2009 at 9:47 am
US-CERT is aware of reports of a vulnerability
in the way the Autonomy
KeyView SDK parses Excel files. The Autonomy KeyView SDK is used
by
certain products, including Lotus Notes and Symantec Mail Security,
to
support the handling of a number of different file formats. By
supplying a specially crafted Excel spreadsheet to an application
using the affected Autonomy KeyView SDK library, a remote attacker
may
be able to execute arbitrary code in the context of that application.
US-CERT encourages users and administrators
to do the following to
help mitigate the risks:
* IBM Lotus Notes users should review the IBM Flash Alert and
implement the listed fixes or workarounds.
* Symantec users should review Symantec Security Advisory SYM09-010
and implement the listed fixes or workarounds.
* The original reporters of the vulnerability state that users
of
other applications that use an affected version of the Autonomy
KeyView SDK may wish to remove the xlssr.dll filter module or
comment out the reference to xlssr.dll in the KeyView.ini file
distributed with the affected application.
Relevant Url(s):
<http://www-01.ibm.com/support/docview.wss?rs=463&uid=swg21396492>
ref 2
====
This entry is available at
http://www.us-cert.gov/current/index.html#autonomy_keyview_sdk_vulnerability1
|
|
AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK ANNOUNCES
$54 MILLION FOR 46 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PROJECTS IN RURAL AREAS
Projects in 24 States Include Libraries,
Food Distribution Centers, Equipment for First Responders
WASHINGTON, August 26, 2009 - Agriculture
Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the selection of $54 million
in community facilities projects that are being funded immediately
with federal funds provided through the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act that President Obama signed into law in February.
Altogether, USDA has announced nearly $234 million in Recovery
Act funding for community facility projects to date.
"The Obama administration is committed
to revitalizing rural communities and bringing quality facilities
such as hospitals, public buildings and community centers to
small towns and cities that can benefit from new construction
or upgrades to existing facilities," Vilsack said. "The
Recovery Act funds we are announcing today will help create jobs
and improve services available in rural communities throughout
the country."
In addition to the $54 million that USDA
Rural Development is providing for the 46 projects announced
today, recipients have raised $9.1 million from other sources.
For example, in Renessalaer, Ind., the
Jasper County Hospital was selected to receive a loan for $15
million to modernize the critical access hospital. Currently,
the facility functions with original 1960's operating rooms and
lacks modern medical equipment and very limited space for physicians.
The funding will be used to construct a new 24,000 square feet
addition and renovate the current facility. In addition, the
hospital will be equipped with a permanent MRI scan room and
equipment, six new Operating Room Surgical Suites and other services
such as a Sleep Lab, Oncology Treatment Area, Medical Records
and office space.
Meanwhile, the Friends of the Library of
Philipsburg Project in Centre County, Penn., will receive a $200,000
loan and $100,000 grant for the acquisition and renovations of
a permanent library site. The relocation and renovation of the
library will assist in creating an anchor for the revitalization
of the town's main street area potentially attracting additional
businesses to the area. The 9,000 square foot library site which
will now be large enough to meet the needs of the community will
meet all current codes and ADA standards.
The funding announced today is being provided
through USDA Rural Development's Community Facilities program,
which helps finance essential community facilities for public
use in rural areas. These facilities include childcare centers,
hospitals, medical clinics, assisted living facilities, fire
and rescue stations, police stations, community centers, public
buildings and transportation. Through this program, USDA ensures
that such facilities are available to all rural residents. These
funds are available to public bodies, non-profit organizations
and federally recognized Indian tribes.
More information about USDA Rural Development
can be found at www.rurdev.usda.gov .
Funding of individual recipients is contingent
upon their meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement.
Alaska:
Opportunity, Inc.; $200,000 grant
Arkansas:
Newton County; $34,000 grant
California:
Seneca Health Care District; $26,000 grant
C Road Community Services District; $11,100
grant
The Arc of Butte County, Inc.; $80,000
grant
Tulare County Library; $55,000 grant
Tulare County Library (2); $55,000 grant
Tulare County Library (3); $55,000 grant
Colorado:
East Morgan County Hospital District; $25,000
grant
Woodlin School District R-104; $25,000
grant
Georgia:
Coffee County BOC; $127,500 loan; $22,500
grant
Turner County BOC; $12,572 loan; $50,000
grant
Idaho:
Wilder Rural Fire Protection District;
$775,000 loan; $95,000 grant
Iowa:
City of Elma; $100,000 grant
Illinois:
Trade industries; $5,340 grant
Indiana:
Jasper County Hospital; $15,000,000 loan
Maryland:
Neck District Volunteer Fire Co., Inc.;
$21,000 grant
Parsonburg Volunteer Fire Department; $50,000
grant
Wicomico County Fire Police Association,
Inc.; $18,887 grant
Maine:
Cobscook Bay Resource Center, Inc.; $27,500
grant
Michigan:
City of Gladwin; $50,000 grant
Missouri:
City of Hayti; $250,000 grant
City of Fisk; $29,000 grant
City of Duenweg; $3,610 grant
City of Leeton; $2,415 grant
Northern Wright County Volunteer Fire Department;
$3,740 grant
City of Senath; $37,500 grant
Sister M. Cornelia Blasko Foundation, Inc.;
$116,400 grant
Village of Theodosia; $8,250 grant
Lewis County Nursing Home Auxillary, Inc.;
$1,820 grant
Village of Pollock; $7,500 grant
New Mexico:
Taos County; $15,000,000 loan
Pueblo of Acoma; $11,409,600 loan, $500,000
grant
New York:
Town of Coxsackie; $70,000 loan; $30,000
grant
North Carolina:
Bladen County Emergency Services Building;
$550,000 loan; $100,000 grant
Ohio:
Muskingum Valley Health Centers; $2,304,000
loan
Oklahoma:
City of Antlers; $34,615 grant
Pennsylvania:
Friends of the Library of Philipsburg;
$200,000 loan; $100,000 grant
South Dakota:
Adams Museum and House Inc.; $85,000 loan;
$15,000 grant
Eagle Butte Community Clinic; $66,250 loan;
$198,750 grant
SD Municipal League $592,000 loan
Tennessee:
Intermediate Care Facilities; $1,600,000
loan
Virginia:
Cumberland County Industrial Development
Authority; $2,000,000 loan
Shenandoah Rescue Squad, Inc.; $70,000
loan; $50,000 grant
Washington:
Nisqually Indian Tribe; $2,000,000 loan
West Virginia:
Raleigh County Public Library; $27,000
grant
President Obama signed The American Recovery
and Reinvestment Act of 2009 into law on Feb. 17, 2009. It is
designed to jumpstart the nation's economy, create or save millions
of jobs and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges
so our country can thrive in the 21st century. The Act includes
measures to modernize our nation's infrastructure, enhance energy
independence, expand educational opportunities, preserve and
improve affordable health care, provide tax relief, and protect
those in greatest need.
More information about USDA's Recovery
Act efforts is available at www.usda.gov/recovery . More information
about the Federal government's efforts on the Recovery Act is
available at www.recovery.gov .
#
|
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Statement from Democratic Party Chairman
Tim Kaine on the Passing of Senator Kennedy
For Immediate Release
Date: August 26, 2009
Statement from Democratic Party Chairman
Tim Kaine on the Passing of Senator Kennedy
Washington – DNC Chairman Tim Kaine
released the following statement on the passing of Senator Ted
Kennedy. The Democratic Party will pay tribute to Senator Kennedy
at its fall meeting in Austin, Texas next month.
Today we mourn the loss of one the greatest
and most consequential political figures in American history
with the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy.
Senator Kennedy was adored by millions
of Americans and was respected by colleagues on both sides of
the aisle for his energy, his passion, his humor, his compassion,
his friendship and above all his commitment to serve his country
in pursuit of a more common good for every American.
It is not an exaggeration to say that Senator
Kennedy devoted his entire adult life - in the great tradition
of the Kennedy family - to public service. And, in his forty-six
years in the Senate, Senator Kennedy's primary focus - and the
legacy he will be most remembered for - will be his work to improve
the plight of ordinary Americans, to empower the powerless and
to end the scourge of discrimination based on race, ethnicity,
gender, sexual orientation, disability and economic background
that was all too prevalent in an earlier time.
For his efforts to ensure civil and voting
rights for minorities to equal rights for women, Senator Kennedy
was a champion. For providing health care to millions of our
nation's children to fighting for the cause and rights of workers
and organized labor, Senator Kennedy was a hero. For working
to improve education and educational opportunities for children
and college students to fighting for the security and dignity
of older Americans, Senator Kennedy was an icon. And, for his
career-long pursuit of quality, affordable health care for every
American, a cause he was devoted to until the very end, Senator
Kennedy was an inspiration to millions of Americans who are fighting
today for that just cause.
In the Senate, he was called the Lion.
To the Democratic Party whose values and ideals were embodied
in and shaped by this great man, he was a giant. To the American
people, he will be remembered as one of the greatest and most
accomplished legislators in American history. And to his family
he will be remembered as a father, a husband, an uncle, a brother,
a grandfather and a friend.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire
Kennedy family as we mourn the loss and celebrate the extraordinary
life of Senator Edward Moore Kennedy.
###
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NORAD
Flight Exercise Planned For Washington, D.C.
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:17:00 -0500
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Karzai,
Top Rival Run about Even in Afghan Election Returns
Posted: 24 Aug 2009 05:00 PM PDT
By JASON STRAZIUSO and ROBERT H. REID
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Supreme
Court Justice Denies Diocese's Request to Seal Case Files
Posted: 25 Aug 2009 05:00 PM PDT
By Dave Altimari, The Hartford Courant, Conn.
Aug. 26--U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg has denied
a request by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport to keep
court files on clergy sex abuse cases sealed until the high court
decides whether to take up their case in the fall.
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Contact: Katie Grant
202-225-3130For Immediate Release
August 26, 2009
Hoyer Statement on the Passing of Sen.
Edward M. Kennedy
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Leader
Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on
the passing of Sen. Edward M. Kennedy:
“Today, America mourns the death of Sen. Ted Kennedy. He
was one of the most dynamic and influential legislators in our
Nation's history, and his legacy will live on in the work of
the colleagues he inspired, and in the lives of the millions
of Americans for whom his passion for social justice made a difference.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends; even
though this day was anticipated, I am sure that little can soften
the blow.
“Throughout his final illness, Sen.
Kennedy was privileged to have the best doctors and the best
treatment. But he never forgot, in this as in all cases, those
who were not similarly privileged: those waiting hours in emergency
rooms this morning for a doctor's care; those who went to sleep
last night unsure that they were covered, uncertain that their
families could cope with the financial burden of an illness.
For their sake, health care reform was the cause of Ted Kennedy's
life. For their sake, and his, it must be the cause of ours.”
###
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AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK AWARDS
MORE THAN $4.2 MILLION FOR WOODY BIOMASS UTILIZATION PROJECTS
Federal grants help reduce the risk of
wildfire and create jobs in rural communities
WASHINGTON, August 26, 2009 - Agriculture
Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced more than $4.2 million
in grants to 17 small businesses and community groups to develop
innovative uses for woody biomass from hazardous fuel reduction
projects on the national forests. Uses of this woody biomass
include renewable energy and new products that could be developed,
which is consistent with the vision Vilsack outlined two weeks
ago about the future of our nation's forests. The investments
announced today will help further the goal of conservation, management,
and restoration of these natural treasures, which will reduce
catastrophic fires, disease and pests that have all led to declining
forest health in recent decades.
"By harnessing the full potential
of woody biomass, America's forests can produce renewable energy
and new products and we can create new, green job opportunities
for local workers," Vilsack said. "These grants will
help restore our forests by reducing hazardous fuels, handling
insect and disease conditions, and treating forests impacted
by catastrophic weather while creating markets for small-diameter
material and low-valued trees removed from these areas."
These funds are targeted to help communities,
entrepreneurs, and others turn residues into marketable forest
products and green energy. The Forest Service Woody Biomass Utilization
grant program has been in effect since 2005 and has provided
over $26.3 million towards various projects, ranging from biomass
boilers for schools and prisons, to helping businesses acquire
equipment that improves processing efficiencies. During this
time period, 110 grants have been awarded to small businesses,
non-profits, tribes and local state agencies to improve forest
health, while creating jobs, green energy and healthy communities.
The Forest Service, a USDA agency, selected
17 small businesses and community groups as grant recipients
for these $250,000 awards. According to requirements, all 17
recipients provided at least 20 percent of the total project
cost. Non-federal matching funds total more than $10 million.
The Forest Service's State and Private
Forestry, Technology Marketing Unit, at the agency's Forest Products
Laboratory in Madison, Wis., will administer the grant program.
The recipients were chosen from 109 applications.
The following are the 2009 woody biomass
utilization grantees:
Rover Shavings & Post, Inc.
Rover, AR - $250,000
Pure Wood Products, LLC
Pinetop, AZ - $250,000
California Wood Shavings, Inc.
Jamestown, CA - $249,550
CLT Logging, Inc.
Grenada, CA - $250,000
Franklin Logging, Inc.
Bella Vista, CA - $250,000
Scott Dunn Logging
Fortuna, CA - $250,000
Trinity River Lumber Company
Weaverville, CA - $250,000
Independent Log Company
Alamosa, CO - $250,000
Intermountain Resources, LLC
Montrose, CO - $250,000
Rogue Resources, Inc./More Lumber
Milner, CO - $250,000
Idaho Forest Group, LLC
Athol, ID - $250,000
Eagle Stud Mill, Inc.
Missoula, MT - $250,000
Eureka Pellet Mills, Inc.
Missoula, MT - $250,000
Southwest Piñon, Inc.
Datil, NM - $250,000
Community Smallwood Solutions
Wallowa, OR - $249,819
Marubeni Sustainable Energy
Lakeview, OR - $250,000
Olson Brothers Enterprises, LLC
Crivitz, WI - $250,000
#
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Stavridis:
Afghanistan Situation Challenging, But Winnable
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:23:00 -0500
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Soldiers
Share Medical Skills With Iraqi Nurses
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:32:00 -0500
|
ADM
Mullen at Legion Convention
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:07:18 -0500
The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff spoke August 25 at
the American Legion Convention in Louisville, Kentucky.
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FDA
Warning Letters for U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Stryker
Brigade Deploys
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:07:49 -0500
The Fourth Stryker Brigade Combat Team is deploying.
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South
Austin Democrats' 22nd Annual Yeller Dawg Awards & BBQ
What: Club/Group Meeting
Host: South Austin Democrats
Start Time: Wednesday, September 23 at 5:30pm
End Time: Wednesday, September 23 at 8:30pm
Where: AFL-CIO
To see more details and RSVP
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FAST FACT: News on the Recovery and
Reinvestment Act
Did you know...
This summer, Recovery Act funds were used to initiate 2,300 construction
and rehabilitation projects at 359 military facilities across
the Nation. These Department of Defense projects will improve
personnel living quarters and install green technologies throughout
the country for the United States Military.
[Source: White House Recovery Office]
###
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Joint
Statement by U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Peace and Israeli
Prime Minister
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
August 26, 2009
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AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK ANNOUNCES
AVAILABILITY OF VALUE ADDED PRODUCER GRANTS
MODESTO, Calif., Aug. 26, 2009 - Agriculture
Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA will soon be
accepting applications for grants to assist agricultural producers
seeking to add value to the commodities they produce. Approximately
$18 million will be awarded nationwide.
"These grants strengthen rural economies
and create jobs by helping farmers and ranchers add value to
their agricultural products by using them for planning activities
such as feasibility studies, marketing and business plans, or
for working capital," Vilsack said. "This program also
supports President Obama's goal to expand our nation's renewable
energy resources by helping farmers develop renewable energy
from agricultural products."
Vilsack highlighted a past grant recipient
in Ohio as an example of how local producers have used USDA's
Value Added Producer Grant funds to expand markets for locally
grown produce. The Chef's Garden, Inc., in Huron, Ohio, received
a $97,500 grant to explore the feasibility of processing and
marketing products derived from locally-grown produce. The 40-year-old
company has completed market research efforts and is now selecting
products to market to consumers. The company projects a 20 percent
increase in sales.
USDA plans to award planning grants of
up to $100,000 and working capital grants of up to $300,000 to
successful applicants. Applicants are encouraged to propose projects
that use existing agricultural products in non-traditional ways
or merge agricultural products with technology in creative ways.
Businesses of all sizes may apply, but priority will be given
to operators of small and medium-sized family farms - those with
average, annual gross sales of less than $700,000.
Applicants must provide matching funds
equal to the amount of the grant requested. Ten percent of the
funding being made available is reserved for beginning farmers
or ranchers and socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers. An
additional 10 percent is reserved for projects involving local
and regional supply networks that link independent producers
with businesses and cooperatives that market value-added products.
Paper and electronic applications must
be submitted to the Rural Development state office in the state
where the project will be located. A list of state offices is
available at www.rurdev.usda.gov/recd_map.html
. Electronic applications must be submitted through www.Grants.gov
. The Department will publish the official notice for funding
availability in the Federal Register within the next week, and
will begin accepting applications at that time.
USDA Rural Development's mission is to
increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life
for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership,
finances business development and supports the creation of critical
community and technology infrastructure. Further information
on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development
office or by visiting USDA Rural Development's web site at www.rurdev.usda.gov .
#
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Comptroller Highlights Interagency Work
to Promote Community Development
ARLINGTON, VA — Comptroller of the Currency John C. Dugan
described the interagency efforts to encourage community reinvestment
and help banks meet their community development goals during
a speech today at the Interagency Community Affairs Conference.
Related Links:
Remarks Before the Interagency Community Affairs Conference (http://www.occ.gov/ftp/release/2009-98a.pdf)
Comptroller of the Currency John C. Dugan (http://www.occ.gov/dugan.htm)
###
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Secretary Chu Announces Nearly $300 Million
in Clean Cities Grants to Support Clean Fuels, Vehicles, and
Infrastructure Development
Projects will create jobs, limit pollution, and reduce America’s
dependence on foreign oil
WASHINGTON, DC – Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced
the selection of 25 cost-share projects under the Clean Cities
program that will be funded with nearly $300 million from the
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These projects will speed
the transformation of the nation’s vehicle fleet, putting
more than 9,000 alternative fuel and energy efficient vehicles
on the road, and establishing 542 refueling locations across
the country. The Department of Energy also estimates they will
help displace approximately 38 million gallons of petroleum per
year.
“The Clean Cities program is helping give state and local
governments the tools they need to build a greener transportation
system that will create new jobs and help to put America on the
path to a clean energy future,” said Secretary Chu. “Advancing
the number of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles
on the road will increase our energy security, decrease our dependence
on oil, and reduce pollution across the country.”
Under the Recovery Act, the Clean Cities program will fund a
range of energy efficient and advanced vehicle technologies,
such as hybrids, electric vehicles, plug-in electric hybrids,
hydraulic hybrids and compressed natural gas vehicles, helping
reduce petroleum consumption across the U.S. In addition, funding
will support refueling infrastructure for various alternative
fuel vehicles, including biofuels and natural gas. Other efforts
under the Clean Cities program include public education and training
initiatives to further the program’s goal of reducing the
national demand for petroleum.
The projects announced by Secretary Chu will support a combined
total of more than 9,000 light, medium and heavy-duty vehicles
and establish 542 refueling locations across the country. The
vehicles and infrastructure being funded include the use of natural
and renewable gas, propane, ethanol, biodiesel, electricity,
and hybrid technologies. And with the cost share contributions
from the recipients, every federal dollar spent will be matched
by nearly two dollars from the project partners.
Last week, the Department of Energy also announced that it had
selected 23 projects for up to $15 million in annual appropriations
funding. Like the Recovery Act-funded projects, the annual Clean
Cities projects include grants for vehicles, infrastructure,
and education.
Clean Cities is a government-industry partnership that works
to reduce America’s petroleum consumption in the transportation
sector. Over the last 15 years, the Clean Cities program has
established local coalitions across the country that promote
the growth of alternative fuels and showcase the potential of
advanced and energy efficient vehicles.
The projects announced today are selections for financial award.
The final details and funding level of each project is subject
to modification based on further contract negotiations between
the selected entity and DOE.
Clean Cities Award Winners
For a map and complete list of award winners, click HERE.
North Central Texas Council of Governments’ North Central
Texas Alternative Fuel and Advanced Technology. The project will
deploy refueling stations and alternative fuel vehicles in the
Dallas-Fort Worth area. The project includes a portfolio of different
technologies and fuels, including B20 (three stations), ethanol
E85 (three stations), compressed natural gas (three stations
and 97 vehicles), electricity (four recharging sites and 34 vehicles),
and 251 hybrid electric vehicles. In addition to the city fleets,
high mileage and high visibility fleets are included, such as
Coca-Cola, Sysco, Frito Lay, school districts, and taxis. DOE
estimates that this project will help displace approximately
1.3 million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $13,181,171
South Coast Air Quality Management District’s UPS Ontario-Las
Vegas LNG Corridor Expansion Project. The project will complete
a long-planned regional liquid natural gas (LNG) fueling corridor
across the southwestern U.S., making the final connection between
the existing public access LNG fuel infrastructure in Southern
California and the LNG fuel stations being developed in Utah.
The project will provide a 700-mile LNG fueling corridor along
one of the nation’s most heavily traveled truck routes for
the movement of various goods. UPS will construct a publicly-accessible
LNG fuel station off of Interstate 15 in Las Vegas and deploy
48 heavy-duty LNG vehicles in its interstate alternative fuel
operations. The new LNG station will support these 48 trucks,
an additional 161 LNG trucks in UPS’ fleet, and other LNG
fleet operators in the region. DOE estimates that the 48 trucks
alone will help displace approximately 1.25 million gallons of
petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $5,591,611
South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (SCAQMD) Heavy-Duty
Natural Gas Drayage Truck Replacement Initiative. The project
will replace 180 diesel drayage trucks at the Ports of Los Angeles
and Long Beach with LNG trucks. Additionally, workshops will
be made available to truck operators and technicians working
on LNG trucks. The final element of this application is an education/outreach
component for alternative fueled vehicles that will be deployed
by the Southern California Association of Governments Clean Cities
Coalition and the SCAQMD. DOE estimates that the project will
help displace an estimated 1.8 million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $9,408,389
San Bernardino Associated Governments’ J.B. Hunt LNG Truck
Project: Made in America Initiative. The project will deploy
262 heavy-duty LNG trucks in Southern California and construct
two LNG refueling stations in San Bernardino and South Gate (South
Los Angeles) to support J.B. Hunt’s initial LNG truck operations,
and will allow the fleet to add additional LNG vehicles in the
future. DOE estimates that the 262 LNG trucks will help displace
more than 2.6 million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $9,950,708
Maryland Energy Administration’s Maryland Hybrid Truck Goods
Movement Initiative. The project will implement the largest collaborative
hybrid truck project in the nation. The initiative will provide
financial and technical assistance to many large fleets including:
ARAMARK, Efficiency Enterprises, Nestle Water Company, Sysco,
and UPS to purchase 150 hybrid electric vehicles. This initiative
demonstrates and promote of the feasibility of alternative fuel
sources, education and public outreach, and reduction of pollution/emissions.
DOE estimates that the project is estimated to help displace
461,400 gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $5,924,190
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)’s
Statewide Alternative Fuel Vehicle Program for CNG, LPG, EV,
and HEV Vehicles and Fueling Stations Initiative. The project
will utilize multiple alternative fuels and technologies in multiple
sectors across the state. Alternative fuel and/or hybrid school
buses, municipal vehicles, urban delivery, and utility vehicles
will be deployed throughout the state. The fleets include two
utility fleets, five cities and towns, three counties, ten private
companies, two state fleets, ten school districts, and two universities.
The vehicles will be deployed across the state. The accurate
and reliable data collected from the use of these vehicles will
provide NYSERDA and DOE insight on how these alternative technologies
operate in diverse conditions. DOE estimates that the initiative
will help displace 302,000 gallons of petroleum per year.
Total DOE award: $13,299,101
Clean Fuels Ohio’s Ohio Advanced Transportation Partnership
(OATP). The project will include the purchase and conversion
of 283 alternative fuel vehicles for numerous fleets including
taxis, cities, schools, and delivery vehicles. In addition to
the alternative fuel vehicles, 15 alternative fueling and service
stations will be constructed. The project will be supported with
public education and outreach programs. DOE estimates that the
project will help displace more than 875,000 gallons of petroleum
annually.
Total DOE award: $11,041,500
Utah Clean Cities Coalition’s Clean Cities Transportation
Sector Petroleum Reduction Technologies Program. The initiative
includes 16 new compressed natural gas (CNG) public fueling facilities,
upgrades to 24 CNG public fueling facilities, three new liquid/compressed
natural gas facilities, three new biodiesel public refueling
stations, and increases the number of natural gas vehicles operating
in Utah by 678. DOE estimates that this initiative will help
displace 1.1 million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $14,908,648
Clean Energy Coalition’s CEC Michigan Green Fleets Initiative.
The project will increase the use of natural gas, electric and
hybrid electric vehicles in 13 sites throughout Michigan. A total
of 271 alternative fuel vehicles and 19 alternative fueling sites
will be added throughout the state. Fleets include transportation
authorities, cities, school districts, the University of Michigan,
FedEx, and Meijer. DOE estimates that a wide variety of viable
vehicles and technologies will help lead to the displacement
of 1.3 million gallons of petroleum per year.
Total DOE award: $14,970,144
Railroad Commission of Texas’ Texas Propane Fleet Pilot
Program. The project will deploy 882 propane vehicles, including
245 propane school buses, 24 medium-duty propane trucks and vans,
and 613 propane-fueled light-duty vehicles for 40 school districts
and public agencies. To support the vehicles, 35 propane refueling
stations will be constructed. The stations will allow the fleets
to lower their costs by buying fuel in bulk, access federal motor
fuel excise tax credits, refuel at the times most convenient
to their schedules, and model successful use of propane to nearby
peers. DOE estimates that these projects will help displace more
than three million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $12,633,080
City of Chicago, Department of Environment’s Chicago Area
Alternative Fuels Deployment Project. The project will deploy
554 alternative fuel and hybrid electric vehicles and install
153 alternative fueling and electric vehicle charging stations
throughout the Chicago region. The initiative also includes garbage
trucks, also known as refuse collection vehicles. The project
will result in expanded availability of alternative fuels with
17 new CNG and E85 fueling stations and 63 electric vehicle charging
stations. DOE estimates that the project will help displace 3
million gallons of petroleum per year.
Total DOE award: $14,999,658
Puget Sound Clean Air Agency’s Puget Sound Clean Cities
Petroleum Reduction Project. The project will expand the use
of alternative fuel and advanced vehicle technology to create
a regional sustainable market for renewable alternative fuels
with the lowest lifecycle emissions, such as biogas made from
waste products and solar energy, to power electric vehicles;
enhance the local economy; and elevate public awareness through
innovative outreach campaigns designed to reach an unprecedented
audience of over 30 million people per year. DOE estimates that
the project will help displace three million gallons of petroleum
per year.
Total DOE award: $14,999,927
Texas State Technical College’s Development of a National
Liquid Propane (Autogas) Refueling Network, Clean School Bus/Vehicle
Incentive & Green Jobs Outreach Program. The project will
result in the development of approximately 184 liquid propane
Autogas refueling stations in the following major metropolitan
areas: Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Denver, Sacramento, Los Angeles,
Dallas, Phoenix, Indianapolis, Seattle, Orlando, San Diego, St.
Louis, San Antonio/Austin, and Oklahoma City as well as a refueling
corridor along I-10 in Louisiana (New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lake
Charles). The initiative will also support the purchase of dedicated
propane school buses and vehicles and, provide an innovative
outreach program designed specifically to retrain and certify
U.S. veterans and out of work or at risk service technicians
for work in the alternative fuel and advanced vehicle technology
industries. DOE estimates that the initiative will help displace
more than 3 million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $12,299,828
New Jersey Clean Cities Coalition’s New Jersey Compressed
Natural Gas Refuse Trucks, Shuttle Buses and Infrastructure.
The project will deploy 277 heavy-duty natural gas garbage trucks
and shuttle buses and four new CNG fueling stations throughout
Newark, Camden, Trenton, Atlantic City, and Egg Harbor Township.
The initiative also includes projects to educate the public about
the benefits of using clean burning, domestically produced natural
gas in vehicles. DOE estimates that the project will help displace
1.8 million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $14,997,240
Greater Long Island Clean Cities Coalition’s Long Island
Regional Energy Collaborative Promoting a Green Economy through
Clean Alternatives. The project will deploy five CNG stations
and 87 heavy-duty trucks throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.
The alternative fuel stations will be accessible to the public
and include the installation of five new compressed natural gas
fueling stations. The proposed 87 alternative fuel vehicles include:
44 CNG refuse trucks, 40 heavy-duty CNG dump trucks, and three
heavy-duty CNG trucks. DOE estimates that the project will help
displace 351,000 gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $14,994,183
DeKalb County’s DeKalb County/Metropolitan Atlanta Alternative
Fuel and Advanced Technology Vehicle Project. The project will
convert local landfill gas (LFG), a renewable fuel source, to
compressed natural gas and develop five CNG fueling stations
throughout the metro-Atlanta area. The project also includes
construction of a B20 station. Team partners will purchase a
total of 191 commercially available light- to heavy-duty alternative-fuel
and advanced-technology vehicles. DOE estimates that the project
will help displace 490,000 gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $14,983,167
Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy’s Paving
the Way with Propane: The AutoGas Corridor Development Program.
The project is aimed at building the infrastructure to encourage
public and private vehicle operators to convert existing vehicles
from conventional gasoline to clean propane. The initiative includes
17 new propane fueling stations along high traffic roadways from
Washington, D.C. to Florida to Mississippi to create the nation’s
first propane corridor. DOE estimates that the initiative will
help displace 3.9 million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $8,605,100
State of Wisconsin’s Wisconsin Clean Transportation Program.
The project will deploy 502 alternative fuel and advanced technology
vehicles through 119 public and private fleets throughout the
state. The program includes the installation of 10 alternative
fuel refueling sites (two B20, one Electric Recharging, and seven
CNG). DOE estimates that the initiative will help displace 1.6
million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $15,000,000
Southern CA Assoc. of Governments Clean Cities Coalition’s
Expanding California’s E85 Ethanol Fueling Infrastructure.
The project will add 55 E85 fueling stations throughout California.
The stations will be placed in the areas with the highest concentration
of flex-fuel vehicles. DOE estimates that the initiative will
help displace approximately 3.5 million gallons of petroleum
annually.
Total DOE award: $6,917,200
The Treasure Valley Clean Cities Coalition’s Idaho Petroleum
Reduction Leadership Project. The project will replace 28 heavy-duty
diesel refuse trucks with CNG trucks. A CNG fueling station will
be constructed at 2 of the recipient’s, Allied Waste, locations.
Allied Waste will conduct two outreach campaigns to encourage
other fleet operators and the public to use CNG and other alternative
fuel vehicles. DOE estimates that the initiative will help displace
255,000 gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $5,519,862
Metropolitan Energy Information Center’s Midwest Region
Alternative Fuels Project. The project will include 27 alternative
fuel stations (16 CNG, 7 B20/E85, one B20, three Electric Charging)
and deploy 373 alternative fuel and advance technology vehicles
(235 CNG, 58 HEV, two LPG, two EV). The stations will provide
additional CNG fueling in cities and along the Interstate corridors
that pass through Kansas City – East to West on I-70 and
North to South on I-35. Additionally, an extensive public awareness
program will expand the interest and adoption of alternative
fuels and advanced vehicle technology in the Midwest region.
DOE estimates that the initiative will help displace 548,000
gallons of petroleum.
Total DOE award: $14,999,905
Greater New Haven Clean Cities Coalition, Inc.’s Connecticut
Clean Cities Future Fuels Project. The project will deploy multiple
fuels and technologies. Vehicles to be deployed include 163 CNG,
the vast majority for high mileage taxis and 18 heavy-duty LNG
refuse trucks. Infrastructure to be deployed includes three CNG
stations, one combined B20/CNG/Electric station, one L/CNG station,
one hydrogen station, and seven electric chargers. DOE estimates
that the initiative will help displace 1.4 million gallons of
petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $13,195,000
State of Indiana’s: Central Indiana Clean Cities Alliance
Comprehensive Alternative Fuels Implementation Plan. The project
will implement propane, compressed natural gas, and hybrid vehicles
from light- to heavy-duty and includes infrastructure for CNG
and E85 vehicles. The fleets involved include the state’s
municipality fleets, Sysco Distribution, and others. This project
incorporates more than 900 alternative fuel vehicles and 13 fueling
sites. DOE estimates that the initiative will help displace one
million gallons of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $10,125,000
Kentucky Clean Fuels Coalition’s Hybrid Electric School
Buses Provide New Horsepower for Kentucky. The project will replace
190 older diesel school buses with hybrid electric school buses
to be used in school districts throughout Kentucky. The initiative
also includes technical training programs and educational outreach.
DOE estimates that the project will help displace 122,000 gallons
of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $12,980,000
Triangle J Council of Governments’ Carolinas Blue Skies
& Green Jobs Initiative. The project will include vehicles
and fueling infrastructure for electric, hybrid-electric, compressed
natural gas, propane, E85, and biodiesel fuels and technologies
to be deployed throughout North Carolina and South Carolina.
The project includes 45 E85 and B20 stations, eight propane stations,
and 132 electric vehicle recharging sites. New vehicles to be
deployed include 55 CNG vehicles, 363 propane vehicles, 89 hybrid
electric vehicles, and 56 neighborhood electric vehicles. DOE
estimates that the initiative will help displace 724,000 gallons
of petroleum annually.
Total DOE award: $12,975,388
###
|
|
Economic
Recovery Act of 2009 for U.S. Department of Homeland Security
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Petraeus
Predicts Tough Fighting in Afghanistan
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:24:00 -0500
|
HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius issued
the following statement today:
“I join Americans across the country in mourning the death
of Senator Edward M. Kennedy and extending my deepest condolences
to the Kennedy family. The Kennedys are a part of my family's
political history. I vividly remember my parents’ joyous
celebration when President Kennedy was elected in 1960. I was
proud to serve as one of Senator Kennedy's Kansas campaign co-chairs
in 1980 and it was a tremendous honor to work with him throughout
the course of my career.
"Senator Kennedy spent his career fighting to improve the
health of the American people and extend services to those in
need. His work touches all of us and almost every corner of the
Department of Health and Human Services. Today, because of his
work, senior citizens who would otherwise go hungry will receive
meals. Millions of children across the country will have access
to medical care and Head Start. And our nation is a fairer and
more just place because of his tireless efforts to promote civil
rights and end discrimination.
“Ensuring that all Americans have access to quality, affordable
health care was one of the causes of Senator Kennedy’s life
and we will carry his mission forward. We will honor his incredible
legacy of advocacy and accomplishment through our work. Senator
Kennedy never let us forget our most important charge as public
servants: representing the American people and giving voice to
those who have been ignored or forgotten. We will always remember
that lesson and his incredible service to our nation.”
|
Audit
of Information Technology Controls in Support of the FDIC Funds’
2008 and 2007 Financial Statements Audit
|
New
Haven Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
|
Former
Fulton County Jail Lieutenant Pleads Guilty to Using Excessive
Force Against Inmate and Lying to FBI Agent
|
VACANCY:
Administrative Services Supervisor, GS-0301-12/13
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:54:12 -0500
KAT-09-LATR0-7082-JAZ (Closing Date: Wed, 9 Sep 2009 00:00:00
EDT)
|
Statement
of Attorney General Eric Holder on Senator Edward M. Kennedy
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:57:41 -0500
Senator Kennedy’s accomplished life came to a close last
night but in the struggle to provide justice and equality for
all Americans we will work every day to ensure that his cause
endures and that his dreams for a better America never die.
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Cyber Security Tip ST04-009
Identifying Hoaxes and Urban Legends
Chain letters are familiar to anyone with
an email account, whether they are
sent by strangers or well-intentioned friends or family members.
Try to
verify the information before following any instructions or passing
the
message along.
Why are chain letters a problem?
The most serious problem is from chain
letters that mask viruses or other
malicious activity. But even the ones that seem harmless may
have negative
repercussions if you forward them:
* they consume bandwidth or space within the recipient's inbox
* you force people you know to waste time sifting through the
messages and
possibly taking time to verify the information
* you are spreading hype and, often, unnecessary fear and paranoia
What are some types of chain letters?
There are two main types of chain letters:
* Hoaxes - Hoaxes attempt to trick or defraud users. A hoax could
be
malicious, instructing users to delete a file necessary to the
operating
system by claiming it is a virus. It could also be a scam that
convinces
users to send money or personal information. Phishing attacks
could fall
into this category (see Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing
Attacks
for more information).
* Urban legends - Urban legends are designed to be redistributed
and
usually warn users of a threat or claim to be notifying them
of
important or urgent information. Another common form are the
emails that
promise users monetary rewards for forwarding the message or
suggest
that they are signing something that will be submitted to a particular
group. Urban legends usually have no negative effect aside from
wasted
bandwidth and time.
How can you tell if the email is a hoax
or urban legend?
Some messages are more suspicious than
others, but be especially cautious if
the message has any of the characteristics listed below. These
characteristics are just guidelines—not every hoax or urban
legend has these
attributes, and some legitimate messages may have some of these
characteristics:
* it suggests tragic consequences for not performing some action
* it promises money or gift certificates for performing some
action
* it offers instructions or attachments claiming to protect you
from a
virus that is undetected by anti-virus software
* it claims it's not a hoax
* there are multiple spelling or grammatical errors, or the logic
is
contradictory
* there is a statement urging you to forward the message
* it has already been forwarded multiple times (evident from
the trail of
email headers in the body of the message)
If you want to check the validity of an
email, there are some websites that
provide information about hoaxes and urban legends:
* Urban Legends and Folklore - http://urbanlegends.about.com/
* Urban Legends Reference Pages - http://www.snopes.com/
* TruthOrFiction.com - http://www.truthorfiction.com/
* Symantec Security Response Hoaxes -
http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/hoax.html
* McAfee Security Virus Hoaxes - http://vil.mcafee.com/hoax.asp
|
FEC
HOLDS SECOND DAY OF PUBLIC HEARING ON IMPROVING ITS WEBSITE AND
INTERNET COMMUNICATIONS
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:48:35 -0500
WASHINGTON -Yesterday, the Federal Election Commission (FEC)
concluded a second day of a public hearing on how to refine its
website and use of the Internet to better communicate with the
public.
|
U.S.
Department of Justice FY 2009 Organization, Mission, and Functions
Manual
|
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AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK ESTABLISHES
FIRST USDA VOLUNTEER PROGRAM FOR THE PEOPLE'S GARDEN INITIATIVE
WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2009 - Agriculture
Secretary Tom Vilsack today established a department-wide U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) volunteer program to encourage
individuals to volunteer with the People's Garden Initiative.
The People's Garden, a USDA domestic and international initiative,
helps illustrate the many ways that USDA works to provide a sustainable,
safe and nutritious food supply while protecting and preserving
the landscape where that food is produced.
"The People's Garden demonstrates
the many benefits of local production and local consumption,
and showcases some of the ways that USDA engages Americans across
the country every day," said Vilsack. "I'd like to
encourage everyone who works for USDA to look for opportunities
to participate in the people's garden effort at their local USDA
offices or other community gardens in their communities."
On Aug. 6, Vilsack encouraged Americans
to connect with the land and their local communities by proclaiming
August 23-29, National Community Gardening Week. Earlier this
year, Vilsack broke ground on the 'People's Garden' - a vegetable
garden on USDA property that recently was expanded to include
sustainable landscaping for the entire grounds. Since May 21,
USDA has harvested and donated more than 300 pounds of produce
to the DC Central Kitchen. The DC Central Kitchen offers job
training in culinary and food service skills to DC's homeless.
The People's Garden incorporates sustainable
practices to educate the public about practical ways to enhance
and conserve land and water resources in the United States. It
is designed to provide a sampling of USDA's efforts throughout
the world as well as teach others how to nurture, maintain and
protect a healthy landscape. The garden concepts that USDA is
practicing serves as a living example of how to provide healthy
food, air and water for people and communities as well as food
and shelter for wildlife, while improving soil health and water
quality.
The Food and Agriculture Act of 1981 (7
U.S.C. 2272) authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to establish
volunteer programs. Volunteer opportunities must be made available
to all interested persons without regard to race, color, creed,
age (except as provided herein), sex, disabling condition, sexual
orientation or any nonmerit factor.
Information about "The People's Garden"
initiative is available at www.usda.gov/peoplesgarden
or follow 'The People's Garden' at twitter.com/peoplesgarden
for the latest updates, harvests and events.
|
|
U.S.
Department of State On the Passing of Senator Kennedy
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
August 26, 2009
|
|
South
Dakota Young Democrats: "Repower America" Canvassing
in Rapid City
"Young Dems and Repower America team up for Clean Energy!"
What: Rally
Host: South Dakota Young Democrats
Start Time: Saturday, August 29 at 11:00am
End Time: Saturday, August 29 at 2:00pm
Where: Rapid City Repower Office
To see more details and RSVP
|
FSIS
Notice 58-09
Manufacture of Animal Food or Uninspected Articles at Official
Establishments
|
FSIS
Notice 59-09
Certification Statements on Egg Products Inspection and Grading
Certificates, FSIS Form PY-200
|
New
DOD Website
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:08:59 -0500
|
NRC
Awards Nuclear Education Grants
|
Statement
on Secretary Janet Napolitano's Upcoming Trip to New York
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 06:00:00 -0500
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano will
travel to New York City to kick off National Preparedness Month
and unveil a new series of public service advertisements for
the Ready Campaign—the Department’s national campaign
to educate and empower families, communities and businesses to
prepare for emergencies and disasters of all kinds.
|
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DOE Fossil Energy NEWSALERT
----------------------------
A film about carbon sequestration produced
with support from the U.S. Department of
Energy has received a 2009 Gold Aurora Award
in the documentary category for nature/environment.
For more details, link to the Energy Department's
Fossil Energy Web site at:
http://www.fossil.energy.gov/news/techlines/2009/09061-CCS_Documentary_Wins_Award.html
|
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AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK TO HOLD
RURAL COMMUNITY FORUM IN OHIO
WASHINGTON, August 26, 2009 - On Monday,
August 31, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will hold a rural
community forum in Zanesville, Ohio, as part of the Obama Administration's
Rural Tour. At the forum, Vilsack will share information with
local residents about the work USDA is doing to revitalize and
rebuild rural America and ask local residents how USDA can be
helpful in supporting and initiating other programs and projects
to help the community participate fully and successfully in the
new, 21st century economy. Vilsack will also highlight American
Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects improving communities
in Ohio and benefiting people throughout rural America. Senator
Sherrod Brown and Congressman Zack Space are scheduled to join
Vilsack at the forum.
In June, President Obama announced that
Secretary Vilsack will lead the Administration's Rural Tour to
visit rural communities in states throughout the country. Secretary
Vilsack is scheduled to lead Rural Tour events with other top
administration officials over the coming weeks in Nebraska and
New Mexico. Monday's event will be the eighteenth similar forum
Secretary Vilsack has led since being sworn in, and follows rural
listening sessions held in Modesto, Calif., Sedalia, Mo., Des
Moines, Iowa, Hamlet, N.C., Bethel, Alaska, St. John Parish,
La., Blairs, Va., West Salem, Wis., Charlotte, Mich., Concord,
N.H., Wattsburg, Pa., Danville, Ind., Geneseo, Ill., Harrodsburg,
Ky., Ludowici, Ga., Portageville, Mo., and Brush, Colo.
USDA recently launched a new website and
social media tools designed to enhance discussions and facilitate
innovation for challenges facing rural America. All Americans
can follow the Rural Tour's progress online at www.RuralTour.gov,
on Twitter at www.twitter.com/RuralTour, or at USDA's Facebook
fan page available at www.facebook.com/usda.
The USDA provides leadership on food, agriculture
and natural resources and touches the life of every American.
Secretary Vilsack and the USDA are working to promote a sustainable,
safe, sufficient and nutritious food supply, ensure that America
leads the global fight against climate change, and revitalize
rural communities by expanding economic opportunities.
WHAT: Rural Tour Community Forum with Agriculture
Secretary Tom Vilsack, Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown and Congressman
Zack Space
WHEN: Monday, August 31
10 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Doors open at 9 a.m.
WHERE: Muskingum County Welcome Center
Heritage Hall-1st floor
205 North Fifth Street
Zanesville, OH 43701
#
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OCC Issues Additional Guidance on Credit
Card Account Rate Increases
WASHINGTON — The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
(OCC) issued a bulletin
today on provisions of the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility
and Disclosure Act of 2009 (Credit CARD Act). The bulletin describes
an interim final rule issued by the Federal Reserve Board that
requires banks to notify customers 45 days in advance of any
rate increase or significant changes in credit card account terms.
The rules also require lenders to disclose that their customers
have the right to reject those changes.
However, under the rules, the new rates or terms can be applied
to any transaction that occurs more than 14 days after the notice
is provided – even if the customer ultimately rejects the
changes. The rules do not require creditors to tell their customers
that new terms can be applied during the 45-day period.
Until the issue is clarified in Federal Reserve rulemaking, the
OCC is directing national banks to include an additional disclosure
to notify consumers of this consequence. The OCC believes that
this additional disclosure will prevent consumer confusion, particularly
for customers who opt to reject the changes in terms.
Today’s bulletin is the second guidance that the OCC has
issued about the Credit CARD Act. On July 30, the OCC issued
Bulletin
2009-25 to remind national banks that effective August 22,
2010, they must conduct periodic reviews of accounts whose interest
rates have been increased since January 1, 2009, based on factors
including market conditions and borrower credit risk. If such
factors have changed, the Credit CARD Act requires that the rates
on the accounts must be reduced. The OCC required national banks
to maintain and have available information concerning any rate
increases as needed to conduct the required periodic reviews.
###
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FDA
Warns About Stolen Insulin
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:53:00 -0500
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is reminding the public
that stolen vials of the long-acting insulin Levemir made by
Novo Nordisk Inc. still may be on the market.
|
FDA
Consumer Health Information Updates
Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:31:00 -0500
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today released its latest
listing of consumer health information updates.
|
U.S.
Department of State Highlights: The Passing of Senator Kennedy
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August 27.
Yesterday's ticker items are archived here
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August 27, 2009
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