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December 3, 2009

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Hot Offers (6.28- 7.4)




Obama Firm on Troop Withdrawal
Chip Reid asked White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs if senators were correct calling the July 2011 date for beginning to withdrawal troops from Afghanistan a "target," meaning there was some wiggle room.

Writes Reid: "After the briefing, Gibbs went to the president for clarification. Gibbs then called me to his office to relate what the president said. The president told him it IS locked in -- there is no flexibility. Troops WILL start coming home in July 2011. Period. It's etched in stone. Gibbs said he even had the chisel."


DNC Plauds Decision to Keep in Place Consent Decree Barring Republicans From Voter Intimidation
DNC Chairman Tim Kaine and DNC Vice Chair for Voter Registration and Participation Donna Brazile issued the following statement on yesterday’s ruling by the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey keeping in place a consent decree barring the Republican National Committee from voter intimidation and asserting that Republicans still have an incentive to engage in such illegal practices. Late last year the RNC asked that the consent decree, which it agreed to in 1982, be nullified, going so far as to argue that because the President and U.S. Attorney General are African American, there is no longer any reason for Republicans to be subject to limits on efforts to engage in “ballot security measures.”
Financial Reform: Will Dodd's Bipartisan Push Pay Off?
Senate Banking chairman Chris Dodd has reached across the aisle to the GOP to create bipartisan working groups to tackle the four hardest questions in financial regulatory reform
Stem cell research
from CNN.com - Video
The National Institutes of Health makes a major announcement on stem cells that could lead to breakthroughs in the field.
PM Yusuf Raza Gilani says does not think bin Laden in Pakistan
from Reuters: International News
LONDON (Reuters) - Pakistan Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani said on Thursday he did not think al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was hiding in his country and called for more clarity on U.S. plans to boost troop levels in Afghanistan.
Greece, Russia sign joint cooperation plan
from Greece News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
(MENAFN) Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov signed a joint action plan on cooperation between the two countries, mainly in the economic field, Bloomberg ...
U.S. Believes More Openness to Syria Faces Hizbullah Problem, Report
from Lebanon News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
U.S. openness to Syria is facing the obstacle of Hizbullah, which is an ally of Damascus, sources informed about coordination between Paris and Washington on the Middle East have told pan-Arab daily a...
Congress appears poised to back Obama Afghanistan plan
from JPost International
Obama appears to have secured what President George W. Bush couldn't: bipartisan support for an unpopular and faltering war.
Russia and U.S. race to complete arms treaty
from Russia News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
WASHINGTON — U.S. and Russian negotiators are racing to solve the remaining obstacles to a new arms control treaty that would cut the world's two largest nuclear arsenals by up to a third and re...
Most in us want public health option: poll
by Reuters
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Most Americans would like to see a "public option" in health insurance reform but doubt anything Congress does will lower costs or ...
U.S. blasts Sudan over Darfur peacekeeper harassment
from Sudan News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The U.S. envoy to the United Nations sharply criticized Khartoum Monday over a U.N. report that accused the Sudanese army of harassing and threatening international peacekee...
Obama puts renewed focus on job creation
by USA Today
Democrats such as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi favor more spending now. Obama has voiced caution about the deficit. "The American people recognize that we ...
UN says global economy will bounce back in 2010
from AP Top International News At 5:48 a... by By EDITH M. LEDERER
UNITED NATIONS (AP) -- The United Nations forecast Wednesday that the world economy will bounce back in 2010 with a global growth rate of 2.4 percent, but it warned that the recovery will be fragile....
US troops hopeful Obama plan will wind down war
from AP Top International News At 5:48 a... by By DENIS GRAY
FORWARD OPERATING BASE AIRBORNE, Afghanistan (AP) -- U.S. service members in Afghanistan said President Barack Obama's decision to send 30,000 more troops offered hope that they can go home - if the reinforcements can build up the Afghan army to protect civilians against the Taliban....
As Obama Hosts a Jobs Summit, Congress Eyes a Jobs Stimulus
from TIME.com: Top Stories
Less than a year after the $787 billion stimulus package was passed, Democrats are spooked by double-digit unemployment rate to push for a new jobs bill
Italy 'to boost Afghan mission'
from BBC News | News Front Page | World Edition
Italy is to send about 1,000 additional troops to Afghanistan to support a US troops surge, say reports.
World Bank chief talks up Asia role in recovery
from France24 - France by admin
Asia will have to play a bigger part in the global recovery than in previous downturns as US consumers are cash-strapped, World Bank chief Robert Zoellick said in an interview published Thursday.
Israel forces detain Jewish settlement mayor
from Palestinian News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
The mayor of the West Bank settlement is arrested as he and others seek to keep Israeli government inspectors from enforcing a building moratorium aimed at restarting Israeli-Palestinian peace talks
Amnesty for 4,000 prisoners in Turkmenistan
from France24 - Business by admin
Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov has granted amnesty to almost 4,000 prisoners to mark an upcoming celebration of his country's neutral foreign policy, state media said Thursday.
UN delegation visits Iraq Speaker
from Alsumaria TV Iraq, Iraq news | Iraq News | RSS feed
UN Assistance Mission in Iraq delegation visited Iraq Speaker Ayad Al Samarai and stressed that if Hashimi vetoed the law for the second time the elections will be delayed till March 2010. For more details click Play Video.

VIDEO: Senate Health Care Debate - Wednesday P.M.
The Senate continued debate on H.R. 3590, the $848B plan to expand health insurance coverage.
Length:

Published: Wednesday at 12:30pm (ET)


VIDEO: Senate Armed Services Cmte. Hearing on Afghanistan Strategy
Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI) chaired an Armed Services Committee hearing on President Obama's new Afghanistan strategy, which includes 30,000 more troops. The witnesses were Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mike Mullen.
Length: 3 hr. 45 min.

Published: Wednesday at 9am (ET)


General Motors CEO resigns
from CBC | Video
Fritz Henderson has resigned as chief executive officer of General Motors less than a year after taking over the position.
Geithner defends derivative oversight plan
from MarketWatch.com - Top Stories
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner defends the centerpiece of the administration’s plan to increase government oversight of derivatives -- the proposal that over-the-counter derivative contracts be cleared through clearinghouses.

Economy improving modestly, Beige Book says
from MarketWatch.com - MarketPulse

WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) - The U.S. economy "improved modestly" in late October and November, with moderate gains in consumer spending, manufacturing and housing offsetting "dismal" conditions in commercial real estate, the Federal Reserve said Wednesday in its Beige Book report on the economy. Eight of 12 Fed regions reported the economy had picked up since mid-October, while conditions were little changed or mixed in the four bank regions stretching from Ohio and Pennsylvania to the south. Labor markets remained weak, "with further layoffs, sluggish hiring and high levels of unemployment." Business contacts told the Fed that there was little or no upward pressure on wages or consumer prices.


Goldman Sachs sees Fed standing pat through 2011
from MarketWatch.com - MarketPulse

SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- Goldman Sachs economists on Wednesday said they expect the Federal Reserve will hold rates near 0% through 2011, saying high unemployment and low inflation will hold back rate hikes. Economists led by Jan Hatzius said they expected U.S. economic growth to slow down to an inflation-adjusted pace of 1.5% to 2% in the second half of next year and then accelerate to 3.5% by late 2011. They see the unemployment rate peaking at 10.8% in mid-2011 and returning to 10.5% by the end of that year. Inflation excluding food and energy is likely to moderate, with the core consumer price index falling to 0.3% growth late next year.


General Dynamics to buy back up to 10 mln shares
from MarketWatch.com - MarketPulse

SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- General Dynamics' board on Wednesday authorized a stock buyback program of up to 10 million shares. The board also declared a quarterly dividend of 38 cents a share to be paid on Feb. 5.


TSX to hit 13,500 in 2010: UBS
from CBC | Ticker
On the heels of a healthy rise in 2009, the TSX could be poised to hit 13,500 in 2010, a strategist at Swiss bank UBS has forecast.
B. of A. to boost equity by $4 bln via asset sales
from MarketWatch.com - Real-time Headlines
B. of A. to issue $18.8 bln in securities
from MarketWatch.com - Real-time Headlines
Bank of America to repay $45 bln in TARP
from MarketWatch.com - Real-time Headlines

Goldman talks to investors about pay levels: WSJ
from MarketWatch.com - MarketPulse

SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- Goldman Sachs Group Inc. is meeting privately with major investors in an effort to convince them that the firm's compensations levels are reasonable, according to a report published late Wednesday. The Wall Street Journal reported that the private discussions are a first for Goldman, which is on the defensive over its handsome pay packages. Employees at Goldman are on track to earn an average of more than $700,000 apiece this year, according to the report. The meetings are expected to last several more weeks, the report said, and come as shareholders are filing proposals meant to restrict pay at the Wall Street firm.


Honduras Congress votes against Zelaya's return
from canada.com World News
The Honduran Congress voted on Wednesday not to allow the reinstatement of ousted President Manuel Zelaya, a move that closes the door on his return to power after he was toppled in a June coup.
Japan's Nikkei Average up 3.3% in afternoon trade
from MarketWatch.com - Real-time Headlines

European shares advance early, miners up
from MarketWatch.com - MarketPulse

LONDON (MarketWatch) -- European shares rose in early trading on Thursday, marking the third straight session of gains, with miners leading the advance as gold futures hit a fresh all-time high in electronic trading. BHP Billiton shares rose 1% and Vedanta Resources shares climbed 2%. Still, Siemens shares fell 1.8% after it reported a net loss of 1.13 billion euros in its fiscal fourth quarter. The U.K. FTSE 100 index rose 0.6% to 5,358.74, the German DAX index climbed 0.8% to 5,826.58 and the French CAC-40 index rose 0.8% to 3,826.55.


European shares up for third straight session
from MarketWatch.com - Top Stories
European shares moved higher for the third straight session on Thursday in a broad-based move, with Peugeot among notable gainers on a possible alliance with Mitsubishi Motors.
Afghan Government Welcomes New US Strategy
by Aida Akl
Afghan Foreign Minister says Washington's plan to deploy 30,000 more troops important for Afghanistan, region, future of US-Afghan relations
Afghan Expert Says Obama Plan For Security Transfer May Work
by Dave DeForest
Marin Strmecki says the turnover of responsibility for security to the Afghans in 2011 will likely succeed.
More US Troops to Arrive in Afghanistan Within Weeks
U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says the first of the additional forces ordered to Afghanistan by President Barack Obama will arrive before the end of this month.
Europe-NATO React Positively to Obama Troop Surge
by Sonja Pace
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown welcomes the increase, which will bring US troops strength in Afghanistan to around 100,000
US Homeland Security: Ports Are Top Concern
by VOA News
Chief of Department of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano, told Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation panel that securing maritime cargo is top concern
Colombia: U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Assistance
The Colombia MiPAL has been updated with a State Department release with an overview of U.S. humanitarian mine action assistance in Colombia and a Strategic Studies Institute report on democratic governance and the rule of law in Colombia. Please see the Recently Added Documents section for the latest on this country - the newest updates are in bold.
Near East and North Africa: Update on Yemen
The Near East and North Africa Regional Policy Overview has been updated with a Joint Force Quarterly article examining Israel's perspective on Iran's nuclear infrastructure, a statement by the Secretary of State on Israel's settlement policy, a briefing by the Special Envoy for Middle East Peace, and an Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses article analyzing the situation in Yemen. Please see the Recently Added Documents section for the latest on this region - the newest updates are in bold.
Afghanistan: President Obama's Strategy Announcement
The Afghanistan MiPAL has been updated with the President's address to the nation announcing his administration's strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, a Senate hearing featuring testimony from the Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the President's address at West Point, a White House briefing with an overview of the President's objectives in Afghanistan, a readout of the President's recent dialogue with President Karzai of Afghanistan, an Institute for the Study of War report analyzing the state of the Taliban in Kandahar, and a Center for Strategic and International Studies report presenting recommendations for an evaluation of the Obama administration's handling of the situation in Afghanistan. Please see the Recently Added Documents section for the latest on this country - the newest updates are in bold.
Meeting Total Fat Requirements for School Lunches: Influence of School Policies and Characteristics
Concerns about child obesity have raised questions about the quality of meals served in the National School Lunch Program. Local, State, and Federal policymakers responded to these concerns beginning in the mid-1990s by instituting a range of policies and standards to improve the quality of U.S. Department of Agriculture-subsidized meals. Schools have been successful in meeting USDA nutrient standards except those for total fat and saturated fat. This report uses school-level data from the School Nutrition Dietary Assessment-III to calculate statistical differences between the fat content of NSLP lunches served by schools with different policies (e.g., menu planning) and characteristics like region and size. Positive associations are found between a meal’s fat content and the presence of a la carte foods and vending machines, which are thought to indirectly affect the nutrient content of USDA-subsidized meals.
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to Address Twelfth Annual United Nations Student Conference on Human Rights, 4 December
UN Secretary-General Welcomes New United States Plan for Afghanistan
UN Delegates at South-South Conference Assert Readiness of Emerging Economies to Take Lead in Designing, Implementing Long-Term Development Plans

Secretary Geithner Written Testimony before the Senate Agriculture Committee
December 2, 2009
TG-425


SEC Obtains Asset Freeze Against Co-Founder of Canopy Financial in $75 Million Offering Fraud
The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that it has filed fraud charges against a Chicago-based health care financial services company and has frozen the assets of its co-founder who allegedly provided investors with forged financial statements to induce them into a $75 million investment scheme.
Obama shifts White House spotlight to fixing unemployment
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama turns his attention on Thursday from Afghanistan to the battle against unemployment which has sapped his popularity and may shape his political future.
Clinton says Karzai must meet words with action
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said on Wednesday Afghan President Hamid Karzai must follow through on promises to fight corruption and urged the re-integration of Taliban members who renounced violence.
Need stronger regulators for swaps: Senate chair
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The two major U.S. financial market regulators need additional authority to oversee over-the-counter derivatives, the Senate Agriculture Committee chairman said on Wednesday.
Govt will need to help shape U.S. media: Waxman
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A top Democratic lawmaker predicted on Wednesday that the government will be involved in shaping the future for struggling U.S. media organizations.
Pakistan must do better job: Clinton
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Secretary of State Hillary Clinton urged Pakistan on Wednesday to do more to go after militants on their territory but sought to allay Islamabad's concerns over increased U.S. troops in neighboring Afghanistan.
More work needed to cut health costs: White House
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Congressional efforts to revamp the U.S. healthcare system are not enough to stem soaring health costs or close the nation's budget gap, a top Obama administration official said on Wednesday, adding that current bills must be strengthened to help rein in spending.
Group urges Obama set goal of doubling exports
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States should set a goal of doubling exports over the next five years, a U.S. business group urged President Barack Obama ahead of a White House jobs forum Thursday.
Small business, transport central to jobs bill
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democrats want increased lending to small businesses and funding for "shovel ready" transportation projects included in a job-creation bill they hope to pass in Congress next month to address the high U.S. unemployment rate.
Health bill alone won't stem costs: White House
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Healthcare reforms working their way through the U.S. Congress will help slow rising medical costs but more will have to be done in coming years, a top Obama administration official said on Wednesday.
Senator moves to slow Bernanke's Fed confirmation
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders said on Wednesday that he was placing a hold on Ben Bernanke's nomination for a second term as Federal Reserve chairman, a move that could slow the confirmation process.
Obama aides defend ambitious Afghan scale-up
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Top U.S. officials said the first of 30,000 new U.S. troops would arrive in Afghanistan in two to three weeks but also made clear on Wednesday that plans to start bringing the soldiers home in 18 months could slip.
Senate to hold first votes on healthcare bill
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Senate leaders broke a logjam on a sweeping healthcare overhaul on Wednesday, reaching agreement to vote on four amendments after frustrated Democrats accused Republican opponents of stalling the bill.
Dem govs focus on economy for 2010
by Jessica Taylor
Democratic Governors Association emphasizes jobs creation as the key to 2010 victories.
Bernanke hearing brings Fed critics
by Victoria McGrane
His may be the most contentious nomination.
Obama: 'End this war successfully'
by Carol E. Lee
Obama portrays buildup as beginning of the end.
Same war with a 'more elegant exit strategy'
by Jen DiMascio
Gary Ackerman cut to the chase on Democratic fears over Afghanistan.
Kerry still optimistic on climate talks
by Lisa Lerer
He remains confident Copenhagen will produce a political agreement — even sans Senate climate bill.
House Dems float new jobs plan
by Jake Sherman
Dem leaders float the idea of adding job-creating measures to a must-pass omnibus spending bill.
Public Telecommunications Facilities Program (PTFP) grants for FY2010
NTIA announces the solicitation of applications for planning and construction grants for public telecommunications facilities under the Public Telecommunications Facilities Program (PTFP) for fiscal year (FY) 2010. (PDF 57 Kb)
GAO-10-12, Supply Chain Security: Feasibility and Cost-Benefit Analysis Would Assist DHS and Congress in Assessing and Implementing the Requirement to Scan 100 Percent of U.S. ...
GAO-10-106, Homeland Security: DHS's Progress and Challenges in Key Areas of Maritime, Aviation, and Cybersecurity, December 2, 2009
GAO-10-286T, Commercial Space Transportation: Development of the Commercial Space Launch Industry Presents Safety Oversight Challenges for FAA and Raises Issues Affecting Federal Roles, December ...
GAO-10-97, Federally Created Entities: An Overview of Key Attributes, October 29, 2009
GAO-10-48, Nuclear Waste Management: Key Attributes, Challenges, and Costs for the Yucca Mountain Repository and Two Potential Alternatives, November 4, 2009
GAO-10-278T, Disaster Assistance: Improvements in Providing Federal Disaster Case Management Services Could Help Agencies Better Assist Victims, December 2, 2009
GAO-10-292T, Chemical Regulation: Observations on Improving the Toxic Substances Control Act, December 2, 2009
Final FTC Roundtable to Discuss Debt Collection Litigation; Continued Call for Public Comments
The Federal Trade Commission will host a public event on consumer protection issues arising when debt collectors sue consumers to recover on a debt.
FTC Website Educates Kids about Privacy and Fraud
FTC.gov/YouAreHere Launches New Content
FTC Order Ensures Future Competition for Parkinson's and Chemotherapy Drugs That Watson's Acquisition of Arrow Would Have Eliminated
Generic Drug Makers Required to Sell Rights to Two Products to FTC-Approved Buyers

VIDEO: Rep. Joe Sestak (D-PA)
Armed Services Committee member Rep. Joe Sestak (D-PA), 7th District, gives his reaction to Pres. Obama's new Afghanistan war policy.
Length: 22 min.

Published: Wednesday at 7:30am (ET)


VIDEO: Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ)
Progressive Caucus Chairman Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), 7th District, gives the Progressives' view of Pres. Obama's decision on Afghanistan war policy.
Length: 23 min.

Published: Wednesday at 7:50am (ET)


VIDEO: OMB Director Peter Orszag on Health Insurance Reform
At this National Press Club media breakfast, White House Budget Director Peter Orszag talked about the status of health care legislation on Capitol Hill.
Length: 1 hr.

Published: Wednesday at 8:30am (ET)


VIDEO: Gov. Brian Schweitzer (D-MT)
2009 Democratic Governors Association Chairman Gov. Brian Schweitzer goes over the DGA's 2010 leadership & their efforts to the 2010 governors’ races. He also discusses how governors are responding to the current economic challenges.
Length: 28 min.

Published: Wednesday at 9am (ET)


VIDEO: UK Prime Minister's Questions
In this week’s Question Time, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown responded to President Obama’s speech on Afghanistan strategy and answered questions about the UK’s role in that country. The prime minister also answered questions on the British economy and the upcoming Copenhagen climate change conference.
Length: 32 min.

Published: Wednesday at 7am (ET)


VIDEO: NATO Sec. Gen. Rasmussen Monthly News Conference
NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen conducted a monthly news conference and responded to President Obama's order to increase troop deployments to Afghanistan by 30,000. The secretary general pledged to send 5,000 additional NATO troops in support of the U.S. surge.
Length: 42 min.

Published: Wednesday at 4am (ET)


VIDEO: Senate Armed Services Cmte. Hearing on Afghanistan Strategy
Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI) chaired an Armed Services Committee hearing on President Obama's new Afghanistan strategy, which includes 30,000 more troops. The witnesses were Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mike Mullen.
Length: 3 hr. 45 min.

Published: Wednesday at 9am (ET)


VIDEO: Joint Economic Cmte. Hearing on Regulatory Loopholes
The Joint Economic Committee held a hearing on proposals that would introduce controls to currently unregulated financial markets. Witnesses discussed proposed regulatory changes before Congress and how they would affect existing loopholes and future economic stability.
Length: 1 hr. 50 min.

Published: Wednesday at 10:30am (ET)


VIDEO: GOP & Democratic Senators Debate McCain Motion to Commit
During the Senate floor debate on the health care bill, GOP and Democratic Senators discussed the McCain motion to commit, which would send the bill back to the Finance Committee.
Length:

Published: Wednesday at 1:30pm (ET)


VIDEO: White House Briefing with Press Secretary Robert Gibbs Wed Dec 2
Press Secretary Robert Gibbs conducts a daily briefing at the White House. Mr. Gibbs answered reporters' questions about the administration's Afghanistan policy and other issues.
Length: 1 hr.

Published: Wednesday at 1pm (ET)


VIDEO: House Commerce Subcmte. Hearing on Breast Cancer
Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) chaired this House Commerce Subcommittee on Health hearing on breast cancer screening recommendations. We heard from officials on the medical panel that recently recommended against mammograms for women under the age of 50.
Length: 4 hr. 5 min.

Published: Wednesday at 10am (ET)


VIDEO: Senate Floor Debate on Health Care Costs
Senators held a debate on how much the health care bill costs & how it will be paid for during this hour-long excerpt.
Length:

Published: Wednesday at 10:30am (ET)


VIDEO: House Foreign Affairs Cmte. Hearing on Afghanistan Strategy
Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA) chaired a House Foreign Affairs Committee on President Obama’s new Afghanistan strategy, which includes 30,000 additional troops to begin deploying in January. The witnesses were Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mike Mullen.
Length: 2 hr. 46 min.

Published: Wednesday at 1:30pm (ET)


VIDEO: Senate Health Care Debate - Wednesday P.M.
The Senate continued debate on H.R. 3590, the $848B plan to expand health insurance coverage.
Length:

Published: Wednesday at 12:30pm (ET)


Abortion showdown looms in Senate
by By ERICA WERNER
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Senators debating health care legislation are headed for a clash over abortion, the issue that threatened to derail the bill in the House...
New stem cell lines approved for tax-paid research
by By LAURAN NEERGAARD
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Scientists can start using taxpayer dollars to do research with 13 batches of embryonic stem cells and the government says dozens more cell lines should be available soon, opening a new era for the potentially life-saving field....
CANADA Newsbrief ticker has been updated
Machinists Highlight Trumka’s Jobs Plan
by Seth Michaels
CEOs, Union Leaders Agree: Manufacturing Strategy Crucial
by Leo W. Gerard
Job Summit : What Do We Need to Create Jobs?
by Seth Michaels
Fact Sheet: The Way Forward in Afghanistan
Statement by the Press Secretary on the Visit of President Michel Sleiman of Lebanon
Biden Presses Agencies to Increase Extent and Transparency of Recovery Act Recipient Reports
President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 12/02/09
Remarks by the President in Address to the Nation on the Way Forward in Afghanistan and Pakistan
Remarks by The First Lady at Holiday Press Preview
The New Way Forward - The President's Address
Posted by Jesse Lee on December 1, 2009 at 9:35 PM EST

Reality Check: Senate Health Care Debate Viewing Guide
Posted by Dan Pfeiffer on December 2, 2009 at 11:28 AM EST

As the Senate debate gets into full swing this week, we thought we'd address a half dozen of the myths you will most certainly hear from critics of health insurance reform. If it feels like you have heard these arguments before, it is because you have... you have heard them over and over and over again. You heard them during the mark ups in the House and the Senate, you heard them at townhalls this summer, and you heard them on the House floor. However, repetition does not equal veracity. These claims have been proven false by independent fact checkers time and again. Consider the below information, a viewing guide of sorts for the Senate floor debate.


Review of White House Procedures During the State Dinner and New Guidelines
Posted by Jesse Lee on December 2, 2009 at 4:41 PM EST

Today, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Jim Messina issued this memo to all White House staff summarizing the White House review that was conducted after the State Dinner Tuesday night:


Word from the White House: Defenders of the Status Quo Obstructing Progress
Posted by Jesse Lee on December 2, 2009 at 7:46 PM EST

It's no secret that institutions of all stripes focus their communications on certain messages day to day. We thought it would all be a little more open and transparent if we went ahead and published our focus for the day, along with any related articles, documents, or reports.


Pakistan a key factor in U.S. Afghan policy
Posted: December 2nd, 2009 02:31 PM ET

Success in Afghanistan is 'inextricably linked to our partnership with Pakistan,' President Obama said Tuesday night.
Washington (CNN) - When President Obama took to the world stage to detail U.S. policy toward Afghanistan, he hammered home a key foreign policy principle: Success in Afghanistan is "inextricably linked to our partnership with Pakistan."

Democratic governors elect new leader
Posted: December 2nd, 2009 03:00 PM ET

From CNN Political Producer Peter Hamby

(CNN) – The political arm for the nation's Democratic governors named Delaware Gov. Jack Markell its new chairman Wednesday, entrusting him with protecting 19 seats in 2010 as he also tries to help elect Democrats win 18 seats currently held by Republicans.


White House summit seeks ideas on creating jobs
Posted: December 2nd, 2009 03:50 PM ET

From CNNMoney.com Senior Writer Tami Lubhy


White House is set to hold a jobs summit Thursday.
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) - With rising unemployment stymying the president's economic revival plans, the Obama administration is huddling with business leaders, academics and other experts Thursday to find a way to jumpstart hiring.


Senate committee questions July 2011 Afghan withdrawal date
Posted: December 2nd, 2009 05:00 PM ET

Democrats accuse GOP of deliberately stalling reform
Posted: December 2nd, 2009 05:28 PM ET

From CNN Congressional Producer Ted Barrett

(CNN) – After three days of debate in the Senate over health care reform, Senate Democrats accused Republicans Wednesday of slow-walking the legislation and searched for parliamentary procedures to speed up the discussion.


AARP endorses Senate bill's Medicare spending cuts
Posted: December 2nd, 2009 07:58 PM ET

From CNN Congressional Producer Ted Barrett

Washington (CNN) - The nation's leading advocacy group for senior citizens on Wednesday endorsed the spending cuts that the Senate health care bill proposes for the government-run Medicare health program for seniors.

In a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nevada, who is leading the effort to pass the Democratic bill, the AARP says the measure "does not reduce any guaranteed Medicare benefits" while it makes needed reforms to the program that is predicted to become insolvent within a decade.


Carper Crafting Health Care Collaboration
Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE) "has for years worked quietly to build consensus on some of the Senate's most vexing issues," Roll Call reports. "But this year, the two-term Delaware Democrat has finally achieved legitimacy as a deal-maker, being asked by his leadership to explore a critical deal on health care reform."

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) "recently tasked Carper to help draft a compromise proposal on the public insurance option, the issue that most threatens to derail health care reform this year."

Said Carper: "I'm not giving up on having a couple of Republicans vote for this bill."


Just 100 al-Qaeda Fighters in Afghanistan?
As he justified sending 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan, President Obama's description of the al-Qaeda "cancer" in that country "left out one key fact: U.S. intelligence officials have concluded there are only about 100 al-Qaeda fighters in the entire country."

Afghanistan and Obama's Approval Rate
Mark Blumenthal: "Will President Obama's speech last night, announcing that he will send another 30,000 troops to Afghanistan now and start withdrawing American forces by July 201, turn public opinion in his favor? We will know better in a week or two, after Americans absorb the news and the usual suspects conduct another round of polls, but the short term prospects look bleak."

Senate Democrats Will Work through Christmas if necessary
Senate Democrats "threatened to pull out the procedural stops to force votes on amendments to the health care reform bill on the floor as the GOP continues to object to advancing the legislation," The Hill reports.

Number Of Contractors Rising In Afghanistan
The Obama administration is increasing more than just troop levels in Afghanistan, according the Wall Street Journal. A Defense Department census shows that "the number of contractors increased about 40% between the end of June and the end of September, for a total of 104,101" present in Afghanistan.

Ten Ways to Cut the Deficit
Since it seems neither major party has much credibility left on fiscal responsibility, Kennedy School professor Jeff Frankels outlines ten proposals "to move the budget back to a sustainable path (like the one it was on until January 2001)."

Obama Firm on 2011 Troop Withdrawal
Chip Reid asked White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs if senators were correct calling the July 2011 date for beginning to withdrawal troops from Afghanistan a "target," meaning there was some wiggle room.

Cms.hhs.gov- Electronic Health Records Demonstration for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

Remarks At Amsterdam News Educational Fund 100th Anniversary

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center

New York, NY

November 30, 2009


Recovery Act Information: Financial and Activity Report Weekly Update: November 30, 2009
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 05:15:30 -0600
Background Notes : Tonga (12/09)
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:16:02 -0600

Vilsack to Hold Conference Call to Discuss Opportunities for Agriculture in Climate Change Efforts and Preview Upcoming Testimony on Capitol Hill

WASHINGTON, December 2, 2009 - TODAY, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack will hold a national conference call for members of the media to preview USDA Chief Economist Joe Glauber's upcoming testimony on Capitol Hill and discuss other information about opportunities for agriculture in efforts to address climate change.

WHAT:
Sec. Vilsack to host national conference call on opportunities for agriculture in efforts to address climate change.

WHEN:
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
9:30 a.m. EST

DETAILS:
Audio Bridge Number: 800-857-5233
PASSCODE: USDA (Given verbally)
Trouble number: 202-720-8560

All callers using the above pass code will be placed in listen only mode. To join the Q&A portion of the meeting, these callers are instructed to press *1 on their touch tone phone.

#


New FDIC Study Shows One in Four U.S. Households Currently Unbanked or Underbanked
Low-income and Minority Households Disproportionately Represented

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 2, 2009 Media Contact:
Andrew Gray (202-898-7192)
AnGray@fdic.gov

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today released the findings of its FDIC National Survey of Unbanked and Underbanked Households, breaking new ground in gaining understanding of which Americans remain outside the banking system. The survey, conducted on behalf of the FDIC by the U.S. Bureau of the Census, was a supplement to the Census Bureau's Current Population Survey during January 2009. The study, which is the most comprehensive survey to date of the unbanked and underbanked, reveals that more than one quarter (25.6 percent) of all households in the United States are unbanked or underbanked and that those households are disproportionately low-income and/or minority.

In addition to collecting accurate estimates of the number of unbanked and underbanked households in the U.S., the survey was designed to provide insights into their demographic characteristics and reasons why the households are unbanked and/or underbanked. The survey represents the first time that this data has been collected to produce estimates at the national, regional, state and large metropolitan statistical area (MSA) levels. Results of the study broken down regionally, by state and by MSA are now available online at a new Web site the FDIC has developed, www.economicinclusion.gov.

"Access to an account at a federally insured institution provides households with an important first step toward achieving financial security – the opportunity to conduct basic financial transactions, save for emergency and long-term security needs, and access credit on affordable terms," stated Sheila Bair, Chairman of the FDIC. "By better understanding the households that make up this group – who they are and their reasons for being unbanked or underbanked, we will be better positioned to help them take that first step."

"This survey will provide the information base for future efforts to address the financial services needs of unbanked and underbanked households in the United States," said FDIC Vice Chairman Martin J. Gruenberg. "It breaks new ground in the effort to expand access to basic financial services."

Of the households surveyed, 7.7 percent were unbanked, which translates nationally to 9 million households - approximately 17 million adults. An additional 17.9 percent – or 21 million households nationally (approximately 43 million adults) - were found to be underbanked. Households were identified as unbanked if they answered "no" to the question, "Do you or does anyone in your household currently have a checking or savings account?" Underbanked households were defined as those that have a checking or savings account but rely on alternative financial services. Specifically, underbanked households have used nonbank money orders, nonbank check-cashing services, payday loans, rent-to-own agreements, or pawn shops at least once or twice a year or refund anticipation loans at least once in the past five years.

Key findings of the study include:
The proportion of U.S. households that are unbanked varies considerably across racial and ethnic groups with certain racial and ethnic groups being more likely to be unbanked than the population as a whole. Minorities more likely to be unbanked include blacks (21.7 percent of black households), Hispanics (19.3 percent), and American Indian/Alaskans (15.6 percent). Racial groups less likely to be unbanked are Asians (3.5 percent) and whites (3.3 percent).

Certain racial and ethnic minorities are more likely to be underbanked than the population as a whole. Minorities more likely to be underbanked include blacks (an estimated 31.6 percent), American Indian/Alaskans (28.9 percent), and Hispanics (24.0 percent). Asians and whites are less likely to be underbanked (7.2 percent and 14.9 percent, respectively).
Households with income under $30,000 account for at least 71 percent of unbanked households. As income increases, the share of households that are unbanked declines considerably. Nationally, nearly 20 percent of lower-income U.S. households - almost 7 million households earning below $30,000 per year - do not currently have a bank account. In contrast, only 4.2 percent of households with annual income between $30,000 and $50,000 and less than 1 percent of households with yearly income of $75,000 or higher are unbanked.

Households with an annual income between $30,000 and $50,000 are almost as likely as lower-income households to be underbanked.

This survey complements an earlier FDIC Survey on Banks' Efforts to Serve the Unbanked and Underbanked, published in February 2009, which found that most banks are aware that there are opportunities to serve unbanked and underbanked individuals in their areas, but that more can be done.

For more information, go to www.economicinclusion.gov.
# # #


Register Now for the FEC's New Orleans Conference
International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP) for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Public Safety Officers' Benefits Program for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
State Crime Victims Compensation for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
VA - Grant - Automobiles and Adaptive Equipment for Disabled Veterans and Servicemembers for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
December 2, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 22 pages - 151 KB)
FDA Warning Letters for U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
VA - Birth Defects Assistance - Payments for Children with Spina Bifida whose Parents Served in Vietnam or Korea for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
VA - Education - Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA) for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Idaho Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
VA - Burial Benefits - Partial Reimbursement of Expenses for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Secretary Geithner Written Testimony before the Senate Agriculture Committee
December 2, 2009
TG-425
Chairman's Podcast
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:31:08 -0600
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, ADM Michael Mullen, discusses the new way forward in Afghanistan with topics ranging from strategy to impact on dwell times.
Obama Announces Strategy
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:14:48 -0600
President Barack Obama announced Tuesday another 30,000 U.S. troops will be deploying to Afghanistan.

The latest Metropolitan Area Employment and Unemployment news release
(http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/metro.pdf)
was issued today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Highlights are below.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Unemployment rates were higher in October than a year earlier in
all 372 metropolitan areas. Among the 369 metropolitan areas for
which nonfarm payroll employment were available, 361 areas
reported over-the-year decreases in employment and 8 reported
increases.


NATO Leader Expects Partners to Boost Contributions
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 09:12:00 -0600

US-CERT Current Activity

H1N1 Malware Campaign Circulating

Original release date: December 2, 2009 at 9:56 am
Last revised: December 2, 2009 at 9:56 am

 

US-CERT is aware of public reports of a malware campaign circulating.
This campaign is circulating via email messages offering information
regarding the H1N1 vaccination. This email messages contain a link to
a bogus Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Users who
click on this link may become infected with malware. Public reports
indicate that these email messages are noted as having subject lines
such as: "Governmental registration program on the H1N1 vaccination"
and "Your personal vaccination profile." Please note that subject
lines may change at any time.

US-CERT encourages users to take the following precautions to help
mitigate the risks:
* Install antivirus software, and keep the signature files up to
date.
* Do not follow unsolicited links and do not open unsolicited email
messages.
* Use caution when visiting untrusted websites.
* Refer to the Recognizing and Avoiding Email Scams (pdf) document
for more information on avoiding email scams.
* Refer to the Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks
document for more information on avoiding social engineering
attacks.

Relevant Url(s):
<http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/tips/ST04-014.html>

<http://www.us-cert.gov/reading_room/emailscams_0905.pdf>

====
This entry is available at
http://www.us-cert.gov/current/index.html#h1n1_malware_campaign_circulating


Remarks by Secretary Napolitano at the Interagency Council for Applied Homeland Security Technology's Counter-IED Symposium
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 06:00:00 -0600
New $100 Billion Safety Net for Jobless in Works
Posted: 30 Nov 2009 04:00 PM PST
By ANDREW TAYLOR
WASHINGTON - As unemployment spikes, the cost of compassion is going up too.
House Banking Panel Set for Final Regulations Vote
Posted: 01 Dec 2009 04:00 PM PST
By JIM KUHNHENN
WASHINGTON - House lawmakers are ready to clear a significant hurdle in their drive to slap new financial restraints on big Wall Street institutions and to demand greater openness from the nation's central bank.

C-SPAN Special Alert!

C-SPAN2: Follow the Health Care Reform Debate

The Senate's health care debate affects everyone. See it all live this month on C-SPAN2. Nowhere else on television can you see the entire Senate debate, unedited and commercial-free. C-SPAN is committed to bring it to you live, including evening and weekend sessions, daily votes, and numerous amendments to the bill on topics including abortion and the public option.

For the latest health care events and C-SPAN2 schedule news, visit c-span.org. For an archive of health care on-demand video, Twitter coverage, and web resources, visit http://www.c-span.org/Topics/Health-Care-Insurance-Reform-Legislation-Town-Hall.aspx.


Visit the DoD Pandemic Influenza Watchboard
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 18:00:00 -0600
Get instant information on seasonal and H1N1 flu at the DoD Pandemic Influenza Watchboard.
Page updates for the Federal Aviation Administration. A new speech, ATO Managers, “Mission Focus: Looking Forward”, is now available.
Soldiers, Civilians Keep Supplies Stocked
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:03:00 -0600

Need Information

Stonewall RGV Houston Event For Annise Parker

Thank you for planning on attending the event we need your Names, Phone Numbers and E-mail addresses by 12pm.So we can pass this information to the Annise Parker people. Please e-mail the information to us at stonewalldemocratsrgv@yahoo.com. We have 10 rooms blocked off at a hotel. They can be paid when we get there. The cost will be less than $70. If you are not sure you can afford the cost please talk to us and we can find some way to ensure that you can attend the event.

Sincerely,
Adan G. Nieto
Secretary For
The Stonewall Democrats of the Rio Grande Valley


National Guard (In Federal Status) and Reserve Activated as of December 1, 2009
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:13:00 -0600

New USDA Study Helps Identify Strategies to Improve Nutrition of School Meals

WASHINGTON, Dec. 2, 2009 - USDA's Economic Research Service (ERS) today released a study Meeting Total Fat Requirements for School Lunches, which finds that many school policies and practices are associated with the fat content of meals they serve through the National School Lunch Program. An earlier USDA report had found that while most schools met requirements for vitamins, protein, calcium, and iron, only one in five schools serve lunches that met the USDA standard for total fat (constituting 30 percent or less of the calories).

"A number of recent studies indicate that one-third of all children between the ages of 6 and 19 are overweight or obese and we must take immediate steps to improve the nutritional quality of school meals and the health of the school environment," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "We have a window of opportunity to make progress on improving the nutrition of school lunches as Congress reauthorizes the Child Nutrition Act, but I also urge schools across the country to embrace the policies and practices identified in this study to help reduce the fat content of school meals and help our children to lead healthier lives."

School policies and practices linked to lower fat lunches include promotion of fresh fruits and vegetables or locally grown foods, offering low fat dairy products, eliminating vending machines in middle and high schools, and adopting a "nutrient content" or "enhanced food-based" meal planning method. Read the full ERS study at www.ers.usda.gov/Publications/ERR87.

 

Congress is currently considering reauthorization of the Child Nutrition Act, which provides the outline for the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs that serve more than 31 million children in more than 100,000 schools across the country. Administration priorities include eliminating barriers that keep children from participating in school nutrition programs, improving the quality of school meals and the health of the school environment, and enhancing program performance.

 

A recent Institute of Medicine report commissioned by USDA showed that, on average, American children between the ages of 5 and 18 consume about 720 to 950 empty, discretionary calories per day - several times more than recommended. The study also noted that children are eating far less dark green and dark orange vegetables and fruits than they need, far more refined grains and far too few whole grains, and too few low fat or non-fat dairy products, which puts children at increased risk for a variety of obesity-related conditions like diabetes, heart disease, cancer and high blood pressure.

 

Over 632 schools across the country have already implemented many of the practices discussed in the ERS study, and have been recognized through HealthierUS School Challenge. Established in 2004, participating schools are awarded one of four levels of superior performance: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Gold of Distinction. To qualify for the awards, a school must submit a formal application and meet basic criteria set forth by the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). Schools can complete the application online at www.fns.usda.gov.

 

The National School Lunch Program serves nutritionally balanced meals to more than 31 million children in 101,000 schools and residential childcare institutions each school day.

 

#


USDA FINAL RULE TO IMPROVE TRANSPARENCY AND EQUITY IN POULTRY MARKET

WASHINGTON, December 2, 2009 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA's Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) will publish a final rule tomorrow to increase fairness and equity in the poultry industry by amending regulations under the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921 to provide poultry growers with new information and improve transparency in poultry growing arrangements.

"The Obama Administration is committed to ensuring that the marketplace for our farmers and ranchers is free from unfair and deceptive practices," said Secretary Vilsack. "This new rule will provide much-needed information and basic protections for poultry growers that will enable them to make better business decisions and safeguard their livelihood."

Under the new regulations, a poultry grower must be provided a true written copy of a poultry growing arrangement in a timely manner. The poultry growing arrangement must include information about any Performance Improvement Plans and provisions for written termination notices of the arrangement. And, notwithstanding confidentiality provisions, the rule allows growers to discuss the terms of poultry growing arrangements with designated individuals. The proposed rule was published August 1, 2007.

Failure to disclose certain terms in a poultry growing arrangement constitutes an unfair, discriminatory, or deceptive practice in violation of section 202 (7 U.S.C. 192) of the Packers and Stockyards Act.

The final rule becomes effective on January 4, 2010. A copy of the rule can be found at www.gipsa.usda.gov .

#


Contact: Katie Grant
202-225-3130For Immediate Release
December 02, 2009

Majority Leader Hoyer Releases 2010 Legislative Schedule

WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) made the following statement today after releasing the House legislative schedule for calendar year 2010:

“The 111th Congress has confronted enormous national challenges and been incredibly productive during its first session. The House has passed major legislation on a range of critical issues, from strengthening our economy to improving health care, increasing access to college, and strengthening our national security.

“The House vote schedule for 2010 allows ample time for us to build on our work from this year, so that we continue creating jobs and addressing our nation’s long-term fiscal problems. The schedule also ensures that Members have the opportunity to conduct important work in their Districts and hear directly from their constituents about the challenges they are facing.”

View the schedule for the U.S. House of Representatives for calendar year 2010.

 

###


Briefs Filed in Three States to Enforce Supreme Court's Olmstead Decision
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:14:32 -0600
Last week proved to be a landmark for federal enforcement of the Supreme Court decision in Olmstead v. L.C., a ruling requiring States to eliminate unnecessary segregation of persons with disabilities and to move persons who can function in the community out of segregated facilities. The Olmstead decision has often been called the Brown v. Board of the disability rights movement.
THE DAILY WHIPLINE | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2009
Economic Recovery Act of 2009 for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Updates:
New ARRA weekly report now available.

Opening Remarks Before the United States Senate Armed Services Committee

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC

December 2, 2009


New York Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Strategy Offers Best Chance for Success, Gates Says
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:57:00 -0600
Strategy Can Reverse Enemy Gains Quickly, Mullen Says
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:59:00 -0600
Birmingham Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
San Diego Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Clinton Cites Civilian Effort as Vital in Afghanistan
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:34:00 -0600
Testimony of CFTC Chair Gary Gensler, House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment
Soldiers Engage Afghan Tribal Leaders
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:05:00 -0600
Petraeus: Afghan 'Surge' to Target Terrorist Leaders
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:15:00 -0600
Highlights: Secretary Clinton Heading to Brussels
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 07:00:00 -0600
Anchorage Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Indianapolis Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
New Haven Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Pittsburgh Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Minneapolis Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

EPA Commends Corporate Leaders for Major Greenhouse Gas Reductions

WASHINGTON — EPA is recognizing eight companies for achieving significant goals to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the agency’s Climate Leaders program. Twenty-seven companies are also being commended for announcing aggressive GHG reduction goals.

Combined, the Climate Leaders companies are reducing greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 50 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents per year.

“EPA’s Climate Leaders are sending a clear message that the choice between our economy and our environment is a false choice,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “They’re doing their part in the fight against climate change and giving consumers the power to support environmentally responsible choices. That leads to a better bottom line and a brighter future for everyone.”

Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc., Bank of America Corp., Coors Brewing Company, Eastman Kodak Company, First Environment, Inc., Gap Inc., Roche Group U.S., and Shaklee Corp. have achieved long-term GHG reduction goals, and three of these companies have also made new commitments to further reduce their emissions.

As the country’s largest GHG goal-setting program, Climate Leaders is an EPA industry-government partnership that works with companies to develop comprehensive climate change strategies. Launched in 2002, the program has expanded from 11 charter members to over 275 participants, which together represent more than eight percent of total annual U.S. GHG emissions. Program partners represent a broad range of industry sectors with a combined annual revenue equal to 12 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product.

The Climate Leaders Small Business Network was recently launched to deliver GHG management assistance to organizations with fewer emissions.

Complete list of partners and their goals: http://www.epa.gov/climateleaders/partners

R366


Boston Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Houston Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Miami Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Atlanta Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
HHS Secretary Sebelius Announces Plans to Establish Health IT "Beacon Communities"
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 23:01:00 -0600
HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Dr. David Blumenthal, HHS’ National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, announced today plans to make available $235 million to support an innovative Beacon Community Program.
New York Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Kansas City Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Miami Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

DOE Fossil Energy NEWSALERT
----------------------------

Representatives from the Carbon Sequestration
Leadership Forum and the International Energy
Agency will be speaking on "Advancing Carbon
Sequestration Technology" at the U.S. Center
at the United Nations Climate Change Conference
(COP-15) in Copenhagen on December 10, 2009.
For more details, please visit:

http://www.cslforum.org/pressroom/publications/CSLF_flyer_COP-15.pdf


Face of Defense: Soldier Finds Current Deployment Safer
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 13:40:00 -0600
DOE Launches Save Energy Now LEADER Program
32 Companies Sign Pledge to Reduce Energy Intensity by 25 Percent

WASHINGTON, DC – Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced today the launch of the Save Energy Now® LEADER Program, which will provide technical assistance and resources to companies that pledge significant improvements in industrial energy efficiency. At an event this afternoon, 32 companies representing a broad spectrum of the U.S. industrial sector will join with DOE Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Cathy Zoi to sign a voluntary pledge to reduce their industrial energy intensity by 25 percent over the next decade.

“These companies’ commitments to energy efficiency not only generate significant energy and carbon savings, but also show the entire business community the profitable steps that can be taken to move us all toward a clean energy future,” said Secretary Chu. “Working together with American manufacturers, we will leverage the potential of energy efficiency to create new jobs, make our economy more competitive, and reduce carbon pollution.”

The U.S. industrial sector accounts for more than 18 million jobs in the United States, as well as nearly 30 percent of the energy used nationwide and 27 percent of the country’s carbon emissions. The Obama Administration has made major commitments to improving energy efficiency as a path toward enhancing our energy security and strengthening the American economy, including more than $250 million in Recovery Act investments to improve the efficiency of the industrial and information technology sectors.

The LEADER program is a new component of the existing and successful Save Energy Now initiative through which companies partner with DOE to conduct energy audits and assessments designed to identify the opportunities for energy and cost savings in the companies’ operations. Participating businesses also have access to tools and training to implement recommendations designed to help reduce their energy use and lower operating costs. Over 2,000 plants received energy assessments through Save Energy Now from 2006 to 2009. To date, those assessments have identified opportunities for $1.3 billion in identified cost savings, 119 trillion Btu of natural gas savings, and 11.2 million metric tons of CO2 savings.

The 32 LEADER Companies marked their commitment to the 25 percent energy intensity reduction goal by signing a voluntary pledge at the event. These charter member companies agreed to establish energy use and energy intensity baselines, and develop an energy management plan over the next 12 months. As indicated by the special “LEADER” designation, these companies are more than just first actors on the path to greater energy efficiency; they are coming forward to serve as actual role models and pace setters on an ongoing basis for others in the industrial sector. In return, the companies will receive access to select DOE resources, as well as national recognition for energy management achievements.

The companies signing the pledge today include:

3M (St. Paul, MN)
AT&T (Dallas, TX)
BPM, Inc. (Peshtigo, WI)
Bridgestone (McMinnville, TN)
Briggs & Stratton (Wauwatosa, WI)
Cummins, Inc. (Columbus, IN)
Danfoss (Baltimore, MD)
Didion Milling (Johnson Creek, WI)
The Dow Chemical Company (Midland, MI)
Flambeau River Papers (Park Falls, WI)
Honeywell (Morristown, NJ)
Ingersoll Rand/Trane (Piscataway, NJ)
Intel (Santa Clara, CA)
JR Simplot (Boise, ID)
Manitowoc Grey Iron Foundry (Manitowoc, WI)
Mohawk Industries (Dalton, GA)
Neenah Foundry (Neenah, WI)
Nissan North America (Smyrna, TN)
Osram Sylvania (Danvers, MA)
Owens Corning (Toledo, OH)
PPG Industries (Pittsburgh, PA)
Quad/Graphics, Inc. (Sussex, WI)
Schneider Electric (Palatine, IL)
Serious Materials (Sunnyvale, CA)
Shaw Industries (Dalton, GA)
Sherwin-Williams, Richmond (Richmond, KY)
Spirax Sarco, Inc. (Blythewood, SC)
Thilmany Papers (Kaukauna, WI)
ThyssenKrupp Waupaca (Waupaca, WI)
United Technologies Corp. (Hartford, CT)
Verso Paper (Memphis, TN)
Volvo Trucks, Inc. (Dublin, VA)


###
Inspector General Management Reports for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Coffee Break Training for U.S. Fire Administration. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Troops to Focus on Reversing Taliban's Momentum
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:34:00 -0600
Cms.hhs.gov- Mandatory Insurer Reporting for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Around the Services
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:43:44 -0600
The Commander in Chief lays out his vision and strategy for Afghanistan. We've got reaction and analysis from the top down. Plus, a look at the impact on families.
ADM Mullen on Afghan Strategy
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 09:58:46 -0600
The military received its marching orders from President Barack Obama. Thirty thousand additional troops will head to Afghanistan.
Gates on Capitol Hill
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:26:16 -0600
Defense Secretary Robert Gates is on Capitol Hill testifying about President Obama&#39;s plan to commit 30-thousand more troops to Afghanistan.

Opening Remarks Before the House Foreign Affairs Committee

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC

December 2, 2009


McChrystal: Surge Marks Turning Point in Conflict
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:01:00 -0600
TTB Expo 2009 for TTB.gov. We have recently updated this information to announce TTB Expo 2011, and is now available.
Lynn Cites Aerospace Role in Afghanistan Strategy
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:17:00 -0600
NIH News Release Update for December 2, 2009, a.m. edition:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Initiates Thirteen New Projects to Advance Asthma Control
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:10:00 -0600
Cms.hhs.gov- Recovery Audit Contractor for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Army Announces Force Structure Actions
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:38:00 -0600
ETA - Advisories - Training and Employment Notices (TEN) for United States Department of Labor. This information has recently been updated.
TEN 19-09 -- Release and Availability of ETA Occasional Paper: The Power of Partnership: American Regions Collaborating for Economic Competitiveness, 2009 Generation I WIRED Interim Evaluation Report has been added to the ETA Advisory database and is now available at http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?DOCN=2829.

C-SPAN Daily Alert
Programming Information for Weds. 12/2 - Thurs. 12/3, 2009
**********************************************************************

C-SPAN Highlights

Tonight:
* Senate Hearing on Afghanistan with Adm. Mullen, Secs. Clinton & Gates (9pm)
* British House of Commons Prime Minister's Questions (12:45am)
* NATO Sec. Gen. Rasmussen Monthly News Conference (1am)

Tomorrow:
* U.S. House: In Session (10am) - LIVE
**********************************************************************
C-SPAN2 Highlights

Tonight:
* Senate Floor Debate on Health Care Costs (8:30pm)
* OMB Director Peter Orszag on Health Insurance Reform Costs (9:30pm)
* House Commerce Subcmte. Hearing on Breast Cancer (10:35pm)

Tomorrow:
* U.S. Senate: In Session (Time TBA) - LIVE
**********************************************************************
C-SPAN3 Highlights

Tonight:
* Afghanistan Events: Senate Hearing; NATO Briefing; PM Brown Remarks Plan (7pm)
* Health Care Events: Senate Debate; OMB Dir. Orszag; Breast Cancer Hearing (8pm)

Tomorrow:
* Senate Banking Cmte. Nomination Hearing for Fed Chair Ben Bernanke (10am) - LIVE
* House Hearing on Afghanistan with Adm. Mullen & Sec. Gates (1pm) - LIVE Tentative
**********************************************************************
C-SPAN Radio Highlights

Tonight:
* Programming TBA. Check the Schedule for Updates - http://www.c-span.org/Schedules/C-SPAN-Radio-Schedule.aspx

Tomorrow:
* Washington Journal (7am) - LIVE
* Senate Banking Cmte. Nomination Hearing for Fed Chair Ben Bernanke (10am) - LIVE
* House Hearing on Afghanistan with Adm. Mullen & Sec. Gates (1pm) - LIVE Tentative
**********************************************************************
Politics Highlights

* C-SPAN Political Programming - Sunday on C-SPAN at 6:30pm ET
**********************************************************************
Washington Journal Highlights

* Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls
* Discussion on Fed Chair Bernanke Nomination Hearing
* Discussion on White House Jobs Summit
* Rep. Ron Paul (R-TX)
**********************************************************************


New Study Announced to Protect Against Chemical Attacks and Bolster Emergency Planning Efforts
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 06:00:00 -0600
Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) announced a new DHS Science & Technology Directorate-led study that will examine the behavior of airborne contaminants if they were to be released into the subway—reflecting Secretary Napolitano’s emphasis on preparedness and the shared responsibility of protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure.

Secretary Clinton to Present 2009 Awards for Corporate Excellence

Bureau of Public Affairs, Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC

December 2, 2009


Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) Conferences for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Updates:

Added OSDBU conferences for 2010.


Courts Plan Ahead For Emergencies
Mon, 30 Nov 2009 12:04:00 -0600
Federal courts are required to have continuity of operations plans to deal with the possibility of emergencies, including a pandemic.
DoD Contracts for December 02, 2009
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:11:00 -0600
Honoring Apollo 13's Fred Haise
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 23:00:00 -0600
At a 1 p.m. ceremony on Dec 2, 2009, Administrator Charles Bolden presented NASA's Ambassador of Exploration Award to Apollo 13 astronaut Fred Haise, a Biloxi, Miss., native. The ceremony took place at Biloxi's Gorenflo Elementary School. Pictured from left to right are school principal Tina Thompson, Administrator Bolden, Fred Haise, Biloxi Public School District Superintendent Paul Tisdale and Stennis Space Center Director Gene Goldman. Image Credit: NASA/Danny Nowlin
DoD Identifies Army Casualty
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:08:00 -0600
Gates Explains July 2011 Milestone at Senate Hearing
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:18:00 -0600
Gates Gives More Details of Afghan Transition Strategy
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:06:00 -0600
Today in the Department of Defense, 12/3/2009
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:35:00 -0600
Alleged Fort Hood Shooter Faces Additional Charges
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:27:00 -0600
What's New at AHRQ for Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Afghanistan, Iraq Drive Landmark Defense Review
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:02:00 -0600
CO-CHAIRS WELCOME RULING RECOGNIZING RUSSIA IS BOUND BY ENERGY CHARTER TREATY
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Kalbitor (ecallantide) on Dec. 1 to treat sudden and potentially life-threatening fluid buildup that can occur in people with a rare genetic condition known as hereditary angioedema (HAE).
HAE is caused by a defect in the blood protein C1 esterase-inhibitor, which plays a role in regulating how certain immune system and blood clotting pathways function. Decreased function of this protein can lead to rapid and serious swelling of the face or other parts of the body, which may result in permanent disfigurement, disability or death. Swelling of the digestive tract may cause excruciating abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, while airway swelling puts patients at risk of suffocation. About 10,000 people in the United States have HAE.
Kalbitor is a liquid that is intended to be injected under the skin for patients age 16 and older who experience HAE attacks.
For more information, please visit: Kalbitor

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC

December 2, 2009


DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:02:00 -0600

Today's top Air Force stories include:

Officials launch new Air Force community Web site
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123180294

Commander outlines Global Strike Command mission, vision, values
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123180208

Nellis commander to appear on 'Jeopardy!'
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123180205

3-year South Korea option opens up to federal employees
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123180196

Afghanistan -- the way ahead: McChrystal sends message to troops
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123180186


Stott's Journey Home
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:00:00 -0600
A First and a Last.

Interview With Katie Couric of CBS Evening News

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC

December 2, 2009


Friend --

Last night, President Obama laid out his plan to defend our national interest by refocusing our efforts on three clear goals: defeating al Qaeda, stabilizing Pakistan, and breaking the Taliban's momentum in Afghanistan.

To achieve these goals, the President has authorized the rapid deployment of 30,000 more troops in Afghanistan, with a firm commitment to begin bringing our troops home in 2011.

It's a clean break from the failed Afghanistan policy of the Bush administration, and a new, focused strategy that can succeed.

Please take a moment to watch the President's address to the nation and read more about his plan.

Our new strategy ends the era of blank checks for Afghanistan's leaders, facilitates a responsible transition to Afghan security forces, and begins bringing our troops home in 2011.

Please take a moment to listen to President Obama outline his plan -- and pass this along to anyone you know who wants to learn more:

http://my.barackobama.com/AfghanistanAddress

Thank you,

Vice President Joe Biden


US and NATO Training
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:33:38 -0600
An update on the training efforts of Afghan troops.
Top News
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:33:49 -0600
The latest news from the Pentagon Channel.
CJCS Testimony
Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:55:21 -0600
CJCS ADM. Mullen discusses the troop surge to Afghanistan.

Greetings,
The FDA Data Standards Council’s website was updated Wednesday, December 2, 2009, to include updated terminology:

A. Addition and deprecation of business operations: Added Label, Medicated Animal Feed Manufacture, and Pack - Deprecated: Feed Milling - http://www.fda.gov/ForIndustry/DataStandards/StructuredProductLabeling/ucm162527.htm
B. Updated XML terminology & Postal Code Validation files (Addition of Peru and Columbia) - http://www.fda.gov/ForIndustry/DataStandards/StructuredProductLabeling/ucm169455.htm.

Lonnie Smith
Project Manager
FDA Data Standards Council


HOUSE FLOOR WRAP-UP FOR DECEMBER 2, 2009

Bills Adopted Under Suspension of the Rules (14):

1. H.R. 3634 - To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 109 Main Street in Swifton, Arkansas, as the "George Kell Post Office" (Rep. Berry - Oversight and Government Reform)
2. H.Res. 494 - Recognizing the exemplary service of the soldiers of the 30th Infantry Division (Old Hickory) of the United States Army during World War II (Rep. Kissell – Armed Services)
3. H.Con.Res. 129 - Congratulating the Sailors of the United States Submarine Force upon the completion of 1,000 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) deterrent patrols (Rep. Dicks – Armed Services)
4. H.Res. 861 - Supporting the goals and ideals of National Military Family Month (Rep. Rooney – Armed Services)
5. S. 1422 - To amend the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 to clarify the eligibility requirements with respect to airline flight crews (Sen. Murray - Education and Labor)
6. H.Res. 897 - Recognizing the importance of teaching elementary and secondary school students about the sacrifices that veterans have made throughout the history of the Nation (Rep. Guthrie - Education and Labor)
7. H.R. 2873 - Enhanced S.E .C. Enforcement Authority Act (Rep. Campbell - Financial Services)
8. H.R. 320 - CJ's Home Protection Act of 2009 (Rep. Ellsworth - Financial Services)
9. H.Con.Res. 197 - Encouraging banks and mortgage servicers to work with families affected by contaminated drywall to allow temporary forbearance without penalty on payments on their home mortgages (Rep. Nye - Financial Services)
10. H.R. 1242 - To amend the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 to provide for additional monitoring and accountability of the Troubled Assets Relief Program (Rep. Maloney - Financial Services)
11. H.R. 3980 - Redundancy Elimination and Enhanced Performance for Preparedness Grants Act (Rep. Cuellar - Homeland Security)
12. H.R. 3963 - Criminal Investigative Training Restoration Act (Rep. Lungren – Homeland Security)
13. H.Res. 939 - Extending condolences to the families of Sergeant Mark Renninger, Officer Tina Griswold, Officer Ronald Owens, and Officer Greg Richards (Rep. Smith (WA) - Judiciary)
14. H.R. 515 - Radioactive Import Deterrence Act (Rep. Gordon – Energy and Commerce)

Postponed Suspension Votes (2):

1. H.Res. 28 - Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Transportation Security Administration should, in accordance with the congressional mandate provided for in the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, enhance security against terrorist attack and other security threats to our Nation's rail and mass transit lines (Rep. Jackson-Lee - Homeland Security)
2. H.R. 3570 - Satellite Home Viewer Update and Reauthorization Act of 2009 (Rep. Conyers - Judiciary)


FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2009
House Meets At… First Vote Predicted… Last Vote Predicted

10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
“One Minutes” (10 per side)

H.R. 4154 - Permanent Estate Tax Relief for Families, Farmers, and Small Businesses Act of 2009 (Rep. Pomeroy–Ways and Means)(Subject to a Rule)
Postponed Suspension Votes (2 Bills):
H.Res. 28 - Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Transportation Security Administration should, in accordance with the congressional mandate provided for in the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, enhance security against terrorist attack and other security threats to our Nation's rail and mass transit lines (Rep. Jackson-Lee - Homeland Security)
H.R. 3570 - Satellite Home Viewer Update and Reauthorization Act of 2009 (Rep. Conyers - Judiciary)

* Conference Reports may be brought up at any time.
* Motions to go to Conference should they become available.
* Possible Motions to Instruct Conferees.


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