|
|
CNN
Cable LIVE FEED
|
www.usdemocrats.com
|
politicalwire.com
|
CNN
Political Ticker
|
ticker timeline 07:43 Eastern Time, Friday
February 27, 2009
|
Obama
enlists at least 11 Harvard professors to join administration
According to Bloomberg, President Obama has enlisted at least
11 Harvard professors so far to join his administration, "the
most since the Kennedy White House regularly recruited from the
Cambridge, Massachusetts, school. The new hires are being drafted
from the economics department, the Kennedy School of Government,
and the law school."
|
|
2008
Vote Ratings
The National
Journal's annual vote ratings analysis -- complete with interactive
charts -- shows how hard it is to piece together a bipartisan
coalition in both the House and Senate.
The ratings were based on a list of 167
key congressional roll-call votes for 2008 -- 79 votes for the
Senate and 88 for the House -- and classified them as relating
to economic, social, or foreign policy.
|
Visit
by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd of Australia to Washington
President Obama will meet with Prime Minister Kevin Rudd of Australia
at the White House on Tuesday, March 24.
|
|
ADVISORY:
Vice President Biden to Lead First Middle Class Task Force Meeting
in Philadelphia
Washington, DC – The Middle Class Task Force, led by Vice
President Joe Biden, will hold its first official meeting on
FRIDAY February 27th at 12:30 PM EDT at the William B. Irvine
Auditorium on the University of Pennsylvania campus in Philadelphia.
The focus of this meeting is on green jobs as a pathway to a
strong middle class.
|
|
Press
Briefing by OMB Director Peter Orszag and CEA Chair Christina
Romer
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
|
Remarks
by the Vice President at the first Recovery Plan Implementation
meeting
|
|
Download
Digital Preservation Tips
from Library of Congress: Digital Preservation
Click the link above to download a PDF brochure with tips for
preserving your digital materials at home.
|
NDIIPP
States Projects Publish Informational Brochures
from Library of Congress: Digital Preservation
February 26, 2009 -- The four projects of the Preserving State
Government Information initiative are making it easier to get
information about their activities.
|
ACE
Trumps Digital Integrity Threats
from Library of Congress: Digital Preservation
The University of Maryland has released the Audit Control Environment
(ACE) to help archives and libraries manage the integrity of
their holdings.
|
|
Library
of Congress Strategic Planning Reports Released
from Library of Congress: Digital Preservation
The Library of Congress Office of Strategic Initiatives has just
released their strategic plan for the next six years. It outlines
the Library's vision for digital programs, including the national
digital preservation plan.
|
|
Southern
Partnership Station in Dominican Republic
from U.S. Navy News Headline Stories
High speed vessel Swift (HSV 2) arrived in Dominican Republic
Feb. 25 for a ten-day training mission during Southern Partnership
Station (SPS).
|
20
years of Canadian police contributions to peace missions
from Canada News Centre - General public
The Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP),
William J.S. Elliott, together with Canadian police partners,
will meet this week with Canadian police officers serving at
the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH)
to mark the 20th anniversary of Canadian police contributions
to international peace operations.
|
|
1.5
million-year-old human footprint found
from CNN.com - World
Ancient footprints discovered in northern Kenya are believed
to be the oldest sign that early humans had feet like ours.
|
|
USDA
Outlook Forum
from USDA Economic Research Service - What's
New
The Agricultural Outlook Forum provides the agricultural community
with timely forecasts of farm prospects and insight into developments
affecting the farm economy. Speakers will include top government
officials, industry analysts, farmers, business leaders, and
academic experts. Join the more than 1,300 people who attend
this annual event. Network with attendees from all facets of
US and world agriculture and the food and fiber industry. ERS
is a co-sponsor of the Forum and helps organize sessions.
|
|
Taliban
Say Want Peace With Afghans, NATO Troops Out
from Rferl.org
The Taliban is willing to work with all Afghan groups to achieve
peace, but the problems of Afghanistan can only be solved if
foreign troops withdraw from the country, a senior insurgent
leader has said.
|
|
U.S.
Issues Annual Rights Assessment
from Rferl.org
The U.S. State Department has issued its annual report assessing
human rights around the world during 2008. Among its most notable
passages, the report criticizes Russia for putting civil liberties
"under siege" and faults China for a record that "remained
poor and worsened in some areas." We summarize the report
in a two-part series. Here in Part 1, we look at the State Department's
assessment of Asian states.
|
|
Outlook
for U.S. Agricultural Trade
from USDA Economic Research Service - What's
New
Offers the latest forecast of value and volume of U.S. farm exports,
by commodity and region, as well as the agricultural trade balance
for the coming year. Keeps readers abreast of how U.S. agricultural
trade stacks up in a global market.
|
|
Serbia
Charges 19 Bosnian Officials With War Crimes
from Rferl.org
A Belgrade court has issued arrest warrants for 19 former Bosnian
officials over a 1992 attack on troops of the former Yugoslav
People's Army (JNA), a spokeswoman said.
|
|
Iran
Neighbor U.A.E. Spends $5 Billion On Arms Deals
from Rferl.org
The United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), across the Persian Gulf from
Iran, signed military deals worth 18.4 billion dirhams ($5 billion)
during an arms exhibition in Abu Dhabi this week, a senior officer
has said.
|
|
VIDEO:
'We need to be honest'
from CNN.com - Video
President Obama says it is time for the nation to make hard choices
and put its financial house in order.
|
|
VIDEO:
House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) Weekly Legislative Briefing
from C-SPAN Recent Video
House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) conducts a weekly briefing
on legislative issues in the 111th Congress.
Length: 15 min.
Published: Thursday at 10:45am (ET)
|
ticker timeline 07:08 Eastern Time, Friday
February 27, 2009
|
CIA.gov
- February 26, 2009
|
|
Obama
picks top advisor to head HIV/AIDS efforts
from CNN Political Ticker by sarahbethparker
President Obama announced the appointment of a public health
policy expert to head the Office of National Aids Policy Thursday.
(CNN) – President Obama announced the appointment of a public
health policy expert to head the Office of National Aids Policy
Thursday. Jeffrey S. Crowley, a senior research scholar at Georgetown
University’s Health Policy Institute, will serve [...]
|
|
VIDEO:
House Hearing with Fed. Chair. Bernanke
from C-SPAN Recent Video
Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke makes his second Capital
Hill stop of the week, testifying before the House Financial
Services Cmte. Also the Treasury Dept., the Federal Reserve &
other Financial agencies begin a capital and liquidity review
– the “Stress Test” – of U.S. banks.
Length: 2 hr. 58 min.
Published: Wednesday at 10am (ET)
|
|
Rethink
Afghanistan While There's Still Time
from AlterNet.org: War on Iraq by Robert
Greenwald
Announcing my newest full-length documentary in the tradition
of Uncovered and Iraq for Sale.
|
|
UN
SECURITY COUNCIL EXTENDS TIMOR-LESTE MISSION UNTIL 26 FEBRUARY
2010 AT CURRENT STRENGTH, NOTING CALM BUT FRAGILE SECURITY SITUATION
from United Nations Press Releases and
Meetings Coverage
|
|
CANADA:
Minister of Foreign Affairs to Visit Middle East
from Canada News Centre - Foreign Affairs
and International Trade Canada
The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs,
today announced that he will be visiting the Middle East from
February 28 to March 2, 2009, to meet with Jordanian, Israeli,
Palestinian and Egyptian leaders and ministers.
|
|
Cooperation
between the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia and the Basque
Homeland and Freedom Group
from MERLN - Military Education Research
Library Network
The Colombia MiPAL has been updated with the 2008 State Department
Country Report for Human Rights Practices in Colombia and a Jamestown
Foundation article on terrorist cooperation between the Revolutionary
Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the Basque Homeland and Freedom
group (ETA) of Spain. Please see the Recently Added Documents
section for the latest on this country - the newest updates are
in bold.
|
Haiti's
Economy and the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership
Encouragement (HOPE) Act
from MERLN - Military Education Research Library Network
The Haiti MiPAL has been updated with the 2008 State Department
Country Report for Human Rights Practices in Haiti and a Congressional
Research Service report on Haiti's economy and the Haitian Hemispheric
Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement (HOPE) Act. Please
see the Recently Added Documents section for the latest on this
country - the newest updates are in bold.
|
|
Syria's
Nuclear Program
from MERLN - Military Education Research
Library Network
The Syria MiPAL has been updated with the 2008 State Department
Country Report for Human Rights Practices in Syria, a Washington
Institute for Near East Policy article on U.S.-Syrian-Lebanese
relations, the International Atomic Energy Agency's latest report
on Syria's nuclear program, along with a statement on the report
from the State Department, and a Human Rights Watch report on
the human rights concerns surrounding Syria's Supreme State Security
Court. Please see the Recently Added Documents section for the
latest on this country - the newest updates are in bold.
|
|
U.S.
envoy for North Korea may visit Pyongyang
from CNN.com - Politics
The U.S. envoy for North Korea hopes to visit that nation next
week as part of what the Obama administration hopes will be a
different relationship between Washington and Pyongyang, senior
administration officials told CNN on Thursday.
|
|
INTERGOVERNMENTAL
PREPARATORY MEETING ON COMMISSION ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
WRAPS UP THEMATIC CONSIDERATION WITH DEBATES ON DESERTIFICATION,
AFRICA
from United Nations Press Releases and
Meetings Coverage
|
|
UN
IRAQ SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE TELLS SECURITY COUNCIL 'WE HAVE GROUNDS
FOR OPTIMISM' FOLLOWING RECENT SUCCESSFUL PROVINCIAL ELECTIONS
from United Nations Press Releases and
Meetings Coverage
|
|
GAO-09-429T,
Hardrock Mining: Information on Types of State Royalties, Number
of Abandoned Mines, and Financial Assurances on BLM Land, February
26, 2009
from GAO Reports
|
|
GAO-09-428T,
Chemical Regulation: Options for Enhancing the Effectiveness
of the Toxic Substances Control Act, February 26, 2009
from GAO Reports
|
|
GAO-09-396T,
Workforce Investment Act: Labor Has Made Progress in Addressing
Areas of Concern, but More Focus Needed on Understanding What
Works and What Doesn't, February 26, 2009
from GAO Reports
|
|
GAO-09-356R,
NASA Workforce: Responses to Follow-up Questions regarding the
National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Use of Term Appointments,
February 25, 2009
from GAO Reports
|
|
GAO-09-193,
Nonprofit Sector: Significant Federal Funds Reach the Sector
through Various Mechanisms, but More Complete and Reliable Funding
Data Are Needed, February 26, 2009
from GAO Reports
|
|
GAO-09-174,
Excluded Parties List System: Suspended and Debarred Businesses
and Individuals Improperly Receive Federal Funds, February 25,
2009
from GAO Reports
|
|
GAO-09-106,
Whistleblower Protection Program: Better Data and Improved Oversight
Would Help Ensure Program Quality and Consistency
from GAO Reports
Workers who "blow the whistle" on prohibited practices
play a role in enforcing federal laws, but these workers risk
reprisals from their employers. The Whistleblower Protection
Program at the Department of Labor's (Labor) Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for investigating
whistleblowers' complaints. OSHA's decisions generally may be
appealed to the Office of Administrative Law Judges (OALJ) and,
ultimately, ...
|
|
Budget
Proposals to Increase College Access, Affordability
from U.S. Department of Education
Secretary Duncan highlighted provisions of the Department of
Education's proposed FY 2010 budget overview that would dramatically
expand student financial aid while making it simpler, more reliable
and more efficient. "We need to invest in our economic future
and enable our kids to compete in today's global environment.
America's students and workers need a higher level of education
and training," Duncan said.
|
|
Helping
Families Save Their Homes Act
from Director's Blog by Douglas Elmendorf
Yesterday, CBO released a cost estimate of H.R. 1106, the Helping
Families Save Their Homes Act, as introduced on February 23,
2008. CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1106 would increase direct
spending by about $8 billion over the 2009-2014 period, and would
reduce direct spending by about $15 billion over the 2009-2019
period. Enacting H.R 1106 would increase revenues by $19 million
over the 2009-2014 period and by $23 million over the 2009-2019
period.
|
|
Minister
of State Kent Welcomes to Canada Head of International Commission
against Impunity in Guatemala
from Canada News Centre - National News
The Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs
(Americas) today welcomed Carlos Castresana, United Nations Assistant
Secretary-General of the International Commission Against Impunity
in Guatemala (CICIG), who is visiting Ottawa from February 26
to 27, 2009.
|
|
Suspectfraud.com
helps consumers
from Access Washington News
|
|
Washington
State Tourism releases 2008 Travel Impacts Report
from Access Washington News
|
|
Obama's
first budget: Key defense figures
from CNN Political Ticker by CNN Associate
Producer Martina Stewart
President Obama pointed out that the Bush administration submitted
a separate funding request for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan,
effectively keeping them off the books of the main budget. WASHINGTON
(CNN) — President Barack Obama criticized "dishonest
accounting" in the past when he announced his first annual
budget Thursday. Obama pointed out that the Bush administration
[...]
|
|
Obama's
first budget: Key energy figures
from CNN Political Ticker by CNN Associate
Producer Martina Stewart
WASHINGTON (CNN) — President Barack Obama highlighted energy,
along with health care and education, Thursday when he announced
the outlines of his first budget. Click on the jump for more
info about energy funding in the budget. The following are some
of the key energy figures and proposals in the budget: –
The budget allocates $26.3 billion in [...]
|
|
U.S.
Troops To Leave Iraq 'Responsibly, Safely'
from Rferl.org
New Ambassador to the UN Susan Rice said Rice said Iraq "remains
an issue of great importance to the United States, but one on
which the administration will steer a new course."
|
|
VIDEO:
The future of BASF
from CNN.com - Video
CNN's Charles Hodson interviews BASF chairman Jurgen Hambrecht,
about the company's current health.
|
|
New
York Fed purchases $25 billion in agency mortgage-backed securities
from NY Fed | News
|
|
VIDEO:
White House Briefing with Press Secretary Robert Gibbs
from C-SPAN Recent Video
Press Secretary Robert Gibbs conducts a daily briefing at the
White House.
Length: 46 min.
Published: Thursday at 1:30pm (ET)
|
|
UN
SECURITY COUNCIL AL-QAIDA AND TALIBAN SANCTIONS COMMITTEE APPROVES
AMENDMENTS TO EIGHT ENTRIES ON CONSOLIDATED LIST, MAKES TECHNICAL
CORRECTION TO ONE
from United Nations Press Releases and
Meetings Coverage
|
|
Obama's
first budget: Commerce a winner due to census
from CNN Political Ticker by CNN Associate
Producer Martina Stewart
WASHINGTON (CNN) — President Barack Obama introduced his
first annual budget Thursday, promising short-term deficits but
a balanced budget in the long run. The Commerce Department will
be one of the big winners, proportionally speaking. Click on
the jump for more info about Commerce Department funding in the
budget. – Overall funding for that department jumps by $4.5
[...]
|
|
CANADA:
Minister Raitt to Address the Ontario Energy Association
from Canada News Centre - National News
Toronto - On Friday, February 27, the Honourable Lisa Raitt,
Minister of Natural Resources, will be the guest speaker at the
Ontario Energy Association's Breakfast Speakers' Series. Minister
Raitt will discuss current energy issues in Canada, including
energy efficiency, renewable energy, nuclear energy and clean
energy technologies, as well as the Government of Canada's Economic
Action Plan.
|
|
CANADA:
Government Introduces Legislation to Protect Canadians From Gangs
and Other Forms of Organized Crime
from Canada News Centre - General public
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., Minister of Justice
and Attorney General of Canada, today introduced new legislation
that will fight violence associated with organized crime and
gangs.
|
|
CANADA:
Tabling of the 2009-10 Main Estimates
from Canada News Centre - General public
The Honourable Vic Toews, President of the Treasury Board, today
tabled in the House of Commons the 2009-10 Main Estimates totalling
$236.1 billion in expenditures. Main Estimates provide a detailed
listing of the resources required by individual departments and
agencies for the upcoming fiscal year.
|
|
Defense
Stimulus Money to Flow to Projects, Homeowner Assistance
from U.S. Navy News Headline Stories
Projects resulting from the $7.4 billion Defense Department portion
of President Barack Obama's economic stimulus package will start
to be visible soon, defense officials said Feb. 25
|
|
Top
Dems concerned over troop levels in Obama plan
from CNN Political Ticker by sarahbethparker
Several top Senate Democrats Thursday expressed concerns about
news reports that as many as 50,000 U.S. troops could remain
in Iraq after President Obama fulfills his campaign pledge to
pull all combat forces from that country. WASHINGTON (CNN) -
Several top Senate Democrats Thursday expressed concerns about
news reports that as many as 50,000 U.S. troops [...]
|
ALCGENL
025/09 - CPO VACANCY - USAF NCO INSTRUCTOR
|
|
Statement
From Chairman Schapiro on Proposed Budget for SEC
from SEC.gov Updates: Press Releases
The following is a statement from SEC Chairman Mary L. Schapiro
regarding the President's FY 2010 budget request for the SEC,
which represents a 13 percent increase over its FY 2008 budget:
"The President's requested budget increase for the SEC would
enable us to increase our staff and use new technology to pursue
risk-based approaches that would better detect fraud and ensure
stronger oversight of the nation's securities markets. We appreciate
these additional resources that would help strengthen and reinvigorate
the SEC and rededicate our commitment to the protection of investors."
|
Briefing
Set with Members of First Six-Person Space Station Crew
from NASA Breaking News
NASA will hold a media briefing at 1 p.m. CST on Wednesday, March
4, with the four future residents of the International Space
Station who will usher in an era of six-person crews living aboard
the orbiting research laboratory.
|
|
Apply
for an internship at the White House
from White House.gov
If you’re interested in applying for a White House internship,
the application process is now open.
Take a look at the instructions for how to apply
for a White House internship, download the application, and learn
more about the White House departments you could work in.
Applications are due March 22, 2009. A
couple of important things to keep in mind:
In addition to normal office duties, interns
will supplement their learning experience by attending a weekly
lecture series hosted by senior White House staff, help at White
House social events, and volunteer in community service projects.
White House Internships are unpaid positions
and participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation
and housing for the duration of the program.
|
|
CANADA:
Media Availability with the Minister of National Defence, the
Chief of the Defence Staff and the Commander of NORAD and USNORTHCOM
from Canada News Centre - National News
A joint media availability with the Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay,
the Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic
Gateway, General Walt Natynczyk, the Chief of the Defence Staff,
and General Gene Renuart, the Commander of NORAD and USNORTHCOM,
will be held Friday, February 27, 2009 to discuss Canada and
US military relations.
|
|
Obama's
first budget: Higher taxes for hedge fund managers
from CNN Political Ticker by CNN Associate
Producer Martina Stewart
WASHINGTON (CNN) — Hedge fund managers stand to pay much
higher taxes on their earnings under proposals in President Barack
Obama's first budget, which was unveiled Thursday. The administration
proposes reclassifying managers' partnership income as ordinary
income, rather than capital gains — effectively more than
doubling the rate of tax on the money from 15 [...]
|
|
022/09
from CGMS Internet Releasable ALCGOFF Messages
ALCGOFF 022/09 - OFFICER ASSIGNMENT YEAR 2009 (AY09) SHOPPING
LIST UPDATE-19
|
|
Tibetan
Monks in Protest March
from Radio Free Asia - Tibetan news in
English by kadire
Buddhist monks in Qinghai stage a march and protest at the start
of a somber Tibetan New Year.
|
|
U.S.
Embassy conducts evacuation dress rehearsal
from Marine Corp Ops News
|
|
UK
conceeds 'bad bank'
from CNN.com - Video
The UK has in effect created a "bad bank." CNN's Jim
Boulden explains.
|
|
U.S.
Defense Policymakers Should Focus on Demography, Says Expert
from Woodrow Wilson Center News by wwics@wilsoncenter.org
(wilsoncenter.org)
New ECSP Report article names four trends to watch: youthful
populations, changes in military personnel, international migration,
and urbanization.
|
|
Airline
passenger fee to rise
from CNN.com
A fee charged to every airline passenger to help pay for security
would go up an undisclosed amount in 2012 if President Barack
Obama's proposed budget is approved.
|
|
FEMA:
Pope County Added For Public Assistance Disaster Aid
from FEMA: Region VI News Releases
NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) and the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM)
announced today that Pope County is now eligible for disaster
Public Assistance to help with recovery from the severe winter
storms of Jan. 26-30. This brings the total number of designated
counties to 30.
|
|
FEMA
Orange Recovery Center To Close; Hazard Mitigation Site Is Open
from FEMA: Region VI News Releases
AUSTIN, Texas -- The last FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center
in Orange County will close Feb. 27, a reflection of Texas' continuing
recovery from Hurricane Ike.
|
|
CONTRACT
OPPORTUNITY: Indonesia: Definitional Mission for Energy Sector
Projects
from Contracting Opportunities With USTDA
by webmaster@ustda.gov (Webmaster)
Notice Date: 2/26/09 | Closing Date: 3/16/09
|
|
CONTRACT
OPPORTUNITY: Vietnam: Definitional Mission or Information Communication
Technology Project
from Contracting Opportunities With USTDA
by webmaster@ustda.gov (Webmaster)
Notice Date: 2/26/09 | Closing Date: 3/17/09
|
|
RI
Governor Officially Certifies Participation in American Recovery
& Reinvestment Act of 2009 at Signing Ceremony
from Office of the Governor
Increase in Unemployment Benefits to Start Week of March 2nd
Governor Certifies Commitment to Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy Governor Donald L. Carcieri joined House and Senate leaders
today at a press conference to officially certify that the State
of Rhode...
|
|
Poll:
Majority approve of Obama's new troop plan
from CNN.com - Politics
A new national poll indicates that a majority of Americans support
President Barack Obama's plan to send 17,000 more U.S. troops
to the war in Afghanistan.
|
|
Alzheimer's
Plaques More Complex Than Thought
from healthfinder.gov Daily News
They affect neurons and nervous system cells that support brain
function, study finds
|
|
President's
2010 Budget Request Strongly Supports VA Programs
from VA News Releases
President Obama's first proposed budget for the Department of
Veterans Affairs expands eligibility for health care to an additional
500,000 deserving Veterans over the next five years, meets the
need for continued growth in programs for the combat Veterans
of Iraq and Afghanistan, and provides the resources to deliver
quality health care for the Nation's 5.5 million Veteran patients.
|
|
CANADA:
Government Takes Steps To Obtain Vessels For Coast Guard
from Canada News Centre - Government of
Canada
The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Public Works and
Government Services Canada and the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister
of Fisheries and Oceans, today announced that the Government
of Canada has taken the next step towards procuring mid-shore
patrol vessels on behalf of the Canadian Coast Guard.
|
|
Proposed
funding boost for DOJ, FBI, to combat terrorism, financial fraud
from CNN Political Ticker by rsinderbrand
WASHINGTON (CNN) — Requests for more resources to combat
terrorism and financial fraud pushed proposed spending for the
Justice Department up 3.5 percent to a record $26.5 billion in
the president's budget plan, administration officials said Thursday.
Much of the increase would go to the FBI to support the detection
and disruption of terrorists, counterintelligence, cybersecurity
[...]
|
|
VIDEO:
House Ways & Means Hearing on IRS and Taxpayers
from C-SPAN Recent Video
The House Ways and Means Subcmte. on Oversight held a hearing
on IRS assistance for taxpayers. Chairman John Lewis (D-GA) examined
how much the recession has impacted the IRS operations and steps
the IRS has taken to assist taxpayers struggling in the economic
downturn.
Length: 1 hr. 24 min.
Published: Thursday at 12am (ET)
|
|
CANADA:
Foreign Credential Recognition
from Canada News Centre - Citizenship and
Immigration Canada
he Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills
Development, and the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship,
Immigration and Multiculturalism, will deliver remarks highlighting
the Government of Canada's ongoing commitment to Foreign Credential
Recognition.
|
|
Defense
Secretary Confident With Proposed Budget Share
from American Forces Information Services
- News Articles
President Barack Obama's fiscal 2010 budget gives the Defense
Department nearly $664 billion, an amount Defense Secretary Robert
M. Gates said he's confident will be enough to sustain the department's
programs.
|
|
Secretary
Salazar Announces Top Communications Appointments
from DOI News Releases
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar
today announced that Betsy Hildebrandt will join his team as
Director of Communications and Kendra Barkoff will serve as Press
Secretary for the U.S. Department of the Interior. They join
Deputy Director of Communications Matt Lee-Ashley, who served
in Salazar’s Senate office and has acted as director of
the Office of Communications since January 21, 2009.
|
|
Extras
from White House.gov Blog Feed
Education Secretary Duncan highlights
changes to student aid in the budget, following on OMB Director’s
theme of simplification.
The Chicago Bulls were at the White House today to present the
44th President -- and proud Chicagoan -- a custom jersey.
The Vice President met at the White House with President Fatmir
Sejdiu of Kosovo.
Yesterday Secretary of State Clinton released the Country Reports
on Human Rights Practices for 2008, watch the video.
Check out photos
of the Department of Labor welcoming Hilda Solis.
Read DHS Secretary Napolitano’s confirmation
testimony.
|
|
Gene
Mutation Linked to Inherited ALS
from healthfinder.gov Daily News
Discovery might one day lead to additional treatments, experts
say
|
|
Secretary
Vilsack at Agricultural Outlook Forum 2009 (Feb 26, 2009)
from U.S. Department of Agriculture
|
|
Gov.
Gregoire launches updated economic recovery website
from Access Washington News
|
|
Essex
Sailors Experience Thailand Through MWR
from U.S. Navy News Headline Stories
During their latest port visit to Pattaya, Thailand, more than
a dozen Essex Sailors took the opportunity to ride elephants
and trek through the jungle at the Pattaya Elephant Village.
|
|
Essex
Certifies Fuel Delivery Capability
from U.S. Navy News Headline Stories
Sailors assigned to forward-deployed amphibious assault ship
USS Essex's (LHD 2) Deck Department, 1st Division qualified to
refuel other ships at sea Feb. 24.
|
|
North
Korea's energy needs scrutinized
from CNN.com - World
A gaggle of reporters pushed their microphones and cameras toward
the North Korean official shortly after he arrived at a college
campus here.
|
|
California
Property Tax: New Construction Exclusion: Seismic Retrofitting
from Legislative Analyst's Office
This measure would amend the state constitution to expand the
current general exclusion for seismic improvements to include
unreinforced masonry buildings. As a result, the exclusion for
such buildings would no longer be limited to 15 years.
|
|
California
Mental Health Services Act: Proposition 63 Amendments
from Legislative Analyst's Office
Proposition 63 provides state funding for certain new or expanded
mental health programs through a personal income tax surcharge
of 1 percent on the portion of a taxpayer’s taxable income
in excess of $1 million. This measure allows for the temporary
redirection of some Proposition 63 funds—specifically, $226.7
million in 2009-10, and between $226.7 million and $234 million
in 2010-11. In effect, these Proposition 63 revenues would be
used to offset state costs that would otherwise be borne by the
General Fund, thereby achieving savings to help address the state’s
current budgetary problem.
|
Budget
Act of 2008. California Children and Families Act: Use of Funds:
Services for Children.from Legislative Analyst's Office
This measure would temporarily redirect a significant portion
of Proposition 10 (First 5 program) funds to achieve budgetary
savings and would make permanent changes to state and local First
5 commission operations.
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|
California
State Finance changes
from Legislative Analyst's Office
This measure would make major changes to the way in which the
state sets aside money in one of its “rainy day” reserve
accounts and how this money is spent. As a result, Proposition
1A could have significant impacts on the state’s budgeting
practices in the future. The measure would tend to increase the
amount of money set aside in the state’s rainy day account
by increasing how much money is put into this account and restricting
the withdrawal of these funds. If this measure is approved, several
tax increases passed as part of the February 2009 budget package
would be extended by one to two years. State tax revenues would
increase by about $16 billion from 2010-11 through 2012-13.
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|
California
Education Finance
from Legislative Analyst's Office
Amends the state constitution as it relates to Proposition 98,
providing "supplemental education" payments in place
of recent "maintenance factor" payments. Also provides
greater discretion to the Legislature and Governor regarding
how the payments would be distributed.
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|
California
State Lottery amendments
from Legislative Analyst's Office
This measure is one of the major components of the plan approved
by the Legislature and the Governor in February 2009 to balance
the state budget. The measure makes major changes to the 1984
voter initiative that created the California Lottery. These changes
could increase lottery ticket sales and allow the state to borrow
$5 billion in the 2009-10 fiscal year from future lottery profits.
In addition to borrowing this $5 billion, the state also could
borrow more from lottery profits in future years. Under the measure,
lottery profits now dedicated to schools and colleges would be
used to pay back the borrowing. The measure would increase state
payments to education from the state General Fund to make up
for the loss of these lottery payments.
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|
CA
State Officer Salary Increase Controls
from CA Legislative Analyst's Office
This proposition amends the Constitution to prevent the California
Citizens Compensation Commission from approving increases in
the annual salary of elected state officials in certain cases
when the state General Fund is expected to end the year with
a deficit.
|
|
Analyses
of May 19, 2009 CA Ballot Propositions
from CA Legislative Analyst's Office
Included are analyses of Propositions 1A-1F, plus Proposition
13, and an Overview of the State Budget.
|
|
Governor
Baldacci Celebrates Grand Opening of 300 Ton Wood Pellet Depot
from Maine.gov Press Releases
LEWISTON – Governor John E. Baldacci today celebrated the
grand opening of a 300-ton wood pellet depot at The Heutz Oil
Facility in Lewiston. The facility is the second regional pellet
storage facility in the State.
“We must move forward with decreasing
our dependency on foreign, expensive and polluting energy,”
Governor Baldacci said. “Kicking the oil habit will keep
valuable fina...
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VIDEO:
U.S.- Iran relations get tense
from CNN.com - Video
U.N. Amb. Susan Rice says the U.S. will work to stop any "illicit"
nuclear aspirations by Iran.
|
|
U.S.,
Thai, Singapore forces to participate in Exercise Cope Tiger
from U.S. Pacific Command Regional News
HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- Aviation and ground units from
the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, the Royal Thai Air
Force and army, and the Republic of Singapore Air Force are scheduled
to participate in Exercise Cope Tiger 2009 March 9 through 20
in Thailand.
|
|
Secretary
Salazar and Secretary Vilsack Pledge Coordinated Federal Response
to California Drought (Feb 26, 2009)
from U.S. Department of Agriculture
|
|
Texas
Attorney General Abbott Reaches Agreement To Halt Deceptive Trade
Practices
from TexasOnline: Texas News
DALLAS - Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today reached an
agreement that resolves the state's enforcement actions against
Coppell-based Mannatech Inc. and its former CEO, Samuel L. Caster....
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|
Gov.
Perry: Higher Education Improves Texans’ Opportunities for
Success
from TexasOnline: Texas News
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today touted the importance of
accessibility to a quality higher education for all Texans at
the rollout of Texas A&M University San Antonio (TAMUSA).
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|
ICE
Raids Under Scrutiny
from CNN.com - Video
New DHS secretary wants "answers" from ICE about a
recent round-up of illegal workers. Casey Wian reports
|
|
U.S.
to end 'illicit' nuclear ambitions by Iran
from CNN.com - World
The Obama administration will work to stop any "illicit"
nuclear aspirations by Iran, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations
Susan Rice told the U.N. Security Council on Thursday.
|
|
U.S.-Syria
talks chart way forward
from CNN.com - World
The State Department's top Middle East official met Thursday
with the Syrian ambassador to the United States, marking a resumption
of diplomatic dialogue that both sides say could spark a thaw
between Washington and Damascus.
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|
Peace
Corps Master's International Partners with University of Virginia
from Peace Corps: News, Photographs and
Stories
|
|
VIDEO:
Ron Paul's opening statement 2009.02.25
from Most Viewed by peacespeech
Ron Paul's opening statement 2009.02.25
Ron Paul opening's statement before Ben
Bernanke testimony before House Financial Services Committee
on 2009.02.25
|
|
VIDEO:
Obama's budget
from CNN.com - Video
Anderson Cooper talks with a panel about President Obama's budget
and potential criticisms he may face.
|
|
Wisconsin
Wind Energy Supply Chain Seminar
from Wind Powering America: Wind Events
Date: 3/31/2009
Location: Appleton , WI
This state-level seminar will focus on
supply chain challenges and opportunities in the state of Wisconsin
for companies looking to get involved in the supply of components
and services to the wind energy industry. This state-level event
is designed to focus on specific aspects for Wisconsin-based
companies and to enable their entrance into the wind industry.
|
|
California
Wind Energy Forum 2009
from Wind Powering America
Date: 3/4/2009
Location: Davis , CA
The California Wind Energy Collaborative
is hosting its sixth Forum to explore the technology, policy,
and planning driving wind energy's future in California. The
Forum will focus on two major wind energy issues, 1) the factors
affecting growth and development, and 2) the necessity for more
educational and training opportunities and the resulting impact
of job creation on the economy.
The Forum will assemble expert panels from
industry, government, and academia to examine the most relevant
issues facing wind energy in the state.
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|
Disaster
Assistance For Personal Property And Other Types Of Expenses
from FEMA: Region X News Releases
OLYMPIA -- Officials of the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) and the Washington Emergency Management Division (WEMD)
are urging people affected by the January 6-16, 2009, severe
winter storm, landslides, mudslides and flooding to apply for
disaster assistance if they have necessary and serious needs,
such as uninsured damaged personal property or medical and dental
expenses, related to the disaster.
|
|
Helpline
Available To Registered Applicants
from FEMA: Region X News Releases
OLYMPIA, Wash. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
urges any residents recovering from the effects of the recent
severe winter storm, landslides, mudslides, and flooding, who
have registered for assistance and have questions or concerns
about disaster-related needs, to call the FEMA toll-free number
1-800-621-FEMA (3362) (TTY 1 800 462 7585) and select the Helpline
option. Residents can get constant, important information.
|
|
Why
the Dark Secrets of the First Gulf War Are Still Haunting Us
from AlterNet.org by Nora Eisenberg, AlterNet
Americans, and our leaders, would do well to take a hard look
at the war that we continue to love only because we never got
to see it.
|
|
10
Reasons Why Conservatives' Fiscal Ideas Are Dangerous
from AlterNet.org by Sara Robinson, Campaign
for America's Future
It would almost be funny if their ideas about spending didn't
lead us into the deepest financial catastrophe in nearly a century.
|
|
Afghans
Protest Against Foreign Troops, Six Hurt
from Rferl.org
Six people were hurt when Afghan police opened fire on demonstrators
who claimed U.S. troops had desecrated a Koran during a raid
on a mosque.
|
|
Georgian
Rebel Region Denies Expelling Villagers
from Rferl.org
Georgia has said separatist forces in the Russian-backed breakaway
region of Abkhazia had expelled dozens of Georgian families overnight,
but the Abkhaz authorities dismissed the accusation.
|
|
Cms.hhs.gov- Medicare Medical Home Demonstration
for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now
available.
|
Biden
leads drive for a green nation
The News Journal - Wilmington,DE,USA
Obama put Biden in charge of tracking those funds because, as
he said Tuesday night during his address to Congress, "nobody
messes with Joe. ...
|
Biden
tests out role as stimulus cop
Politico - Washington,DC,USA
By CAROL E. LEE | 2/26/09 4:37 AM EST Vice President Joe Biden,
who did a star turn on three network news programs Tuesday morning,
also transformed a ...
|
|
Attorney
General's Speeches for U.S. Department of Justice
This page has recently been updated with
the following:
Hundreds
of Alleged Sinaloa Cartel Members and Associates Arrested in
Nationwide Takedown of Mexican Drug Traffickers
|
|
Training, Resources and Data Exchange
Network (TRADENET) for U.S. Fire Administration
This information has recently been updated,
and is now
available.
|
|
VACANCY Announcement No: DTIC-08-09 FEDERAL; Librarian,
YA-1410-02/02
Opens: 26 Feb 2009
Closes: 27 Mar 2009
Location: Ft. Belvoir, VA
DTIC offers competitive salaries, flexible
work schedules, family friendly
environment, employment related paid training and education,
bonuses,
and awards. We are seeking talented people who want challenging
assignments in a progressive organization. Located at Ft. Belvoir,
VA,
in the Andrew T. McNamara Headquarters Complex, we provide on-site
access to free parking, free state-of-the-art fitness facility,
a federal
credit union and a fee-based child care development center.
Please feel
free to forward this message to individuals who might be interested
in such
a position.
Want more information about DTIC? Go to:
www.dtic.mil
Catherine Samuel
DTIC Personnel Admin
(703) 767-9720
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|
CDER New
Clinical Trial Design for Hospital-Acquired
Pneumonia and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Public Workshop,
March 31, 2009 and April 1, 2009, Silver Spring, Maryland. Public Workshop
Information
Drugs@FDA
Downloadable Data Files (updated)
FDA
takes new regulatory action against Ranbaxy’s Paonta Sahib
plant in India.
New and Generic Drug Approvals
Amoxicillin
and Clavulanate Potassium Tablets, Apotex Inc., Approval
Apidra
(insulin glulisine [rDNA origin]) Subcutaneous I.V. Injection,
Sanofi Aventis U.S., Inc., Package Change
Luvox
(fluvoxamine maleate) Tablets, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Labeling
Revision
Luvox
CR (fluvoxamine maleate) Extended-Release Capsules, Jazz
Pharmaceuticals, Labeling Revision
Revlimid
(lenalidomide) Capsules, Celgene Corp., Labeling Revision
|
|
VACANCY Announcement: DTIC-09-09 FEDERAL; Librarian,
YA-1410-02/02
Title/Series/Grade: Librarian, YA-1410-02/02
Opens: 26 Feb 2009
Closes: 13 Mar 2009
Location: Ft. Belvoir, VA
DTIC offers competitive salaries, flexible
work schedules, family friendly
environment, employment related paid training and education,
bonuses,
and awards. We are seeking talented people who want challenging
assignments in a progressive organization. Located at Ft. Belvoir,
VA,
in the Andrew T. McNamara Headquarters Complex, we provide on-site
access to free parking, free state-of-the-art fitness facility,
a federal
credit union and a fee-based child care development center.
Please feel
free to forward this message to individuals who might be interested
in such
a
position.
Want more information about DTIC? Go to:
www.dtic.mil
Catherine Samuel
DTIC Personnel Admin Team
(703) 767-9720
|
|
VACANCY DTIC JOA
Announcement No: DTIC-10-09 FEDERAL
Title/Series/Grade: IT Specialist (SYSADMIN/OS), GS-2210-13
Opens: 26 Feb 2009
Closes: 13 Mar 2009
Location: Ft. Belvoir, VA
DTIC offers competitive salaries, flexible
work schedules, family friendly
environment, employment related paid training and education,
bonuses,
and awards. We are seeking talented people who want challenging
assignments in a progressive organization. Located at Ft. Belvoir,
VA,
in the Andrew T. McNamara Headquarters Complex, we provide on-site
access to free parking, free state-of-the-art fitness facility,
a federal
credit union and a fee-based child care development center.
Please feel
free to forward this message to individuals who might be interested
in such
a
position.
Want more information about DTIC? Go to:
www.dtic.mil
Catherine Samuel
DTIC Personnel Admin
(703) 767-9720
|
DOL
VACANCY Opportunities Application System (DOORS)
|
|
VACANCIES: COAL MINE SAFETY & HEALTH
INSPECTOR (FCI) ; Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration
(multiple zones)
US-PA-Wilkes Barre
US-PA-Pottsville
US-PA-Shamokin
US-KY-Elkhorn City
US-KY-Hindman
US-KY-Martin
US-KY-Phelps
US-KY-Pikeville
US-KY-Whitesburg
|
VACANCY:
Supervisory Information Technology Specialist; Labor, Bureau
of Labor Statistics
|
VACANCY:
DC Supervisory Equal Opportunity Specialist; Labor, Office of
Assistant Secretary Admin & Mgmt
|
VACANCY:
DC Statistician (Operations and Administration); Labor, Employment
Standards Administration
|
VACANCY:
DC Industrial Hygienist; Labor, Occupational Safety and Health
Administration
|
VACANCY:
DC Health Scientist; Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration
|
VACANCY:
DC Workers' Compensation Specialist; Labor, Employment Standards
Administration
|
VACANCY:
DC Information Technology Specialist (DATAMGT); Labor, Bureau
of Labor Statistics
|
VACANCY:
DC Legal Assistant (OA); Labor, Office of the Secretary of Labor
|
VACANCY:
FL Industrial Hygienist; Labor, Occupational Safety and Health
Administration
|
VACANCY:
AL Industrial Hygienist; Labor, Occupational Safety and Health
Administration
|
VACANCY:
TX Nurse Consultant; Labor, Employment Standards Administration
|
VACANCY:
DC Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Labor, Office of the Secretary
of Labor
|
VACANCY:
GA Legal Assistant (OA) Labor, Office of the Solicitor
|
VACANCY:
TX IT Specialist (NETWORK); Labor, Employee Benefits Security
Administration
|
VACANCY:
DC Accountant ; Labor, Office of the Chief Financial Officer
|
VACANCY:
CA Worker's Compensation Claims Examiner; Labor, Employment Standards
Administration
|
VACANCY:
NY Worker's Compensation Assistant (Office Automation); Labor,
Employment Standards Administration
|
VACANCY: DC Secretary ; Labor, Employment Standards
Administration
|
VACANCY:
DC Program Specialist (HRD-Benefits); Labor, Mine Safety and
Health Administration
|
VACANCY:
MO Employee Benefits Plan Assistant (OA); Labor, Employee Benefits
Security Administration
|
VACANCY:
DC Workers' Compensation Claims Examiner; Labor, Employment Standards
Administration
|
VACANCY:
GA Safety And Health Clerk (Office Automation) Labor, Occupational
Safety and Health Administration
|
VACANCY:
AL Safety And Health Clerk (Office Automation) Labor, Occupational
Safety and Health Administration
|
VACANCY:
Mining Engineer ; Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration
|
VACANCY:
Lead Contract Specialist; Labor, Office of Assistant Secretary
Admin & Mgmt
|
VACANCY:
General Attorney (Contract); Labor, Office of the Solicitor
|
VACANCY:
Auditor; Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration
|
VACANCY:
IT Project Manager; Labor, Office of Assistant Secretary Admin
& Mgmt
|
VACANCY:
Investigator (Pension); Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration
|
|
CFTC
Calendar for CFTC.gov
The following date has been added to the Calendar:
March 26, 2009 Deadline for comment on proposed rule or order
74 FR 8220.
See also:
74 FR 8220 17 CFR
Part 4 Commodity Pool Operator Periodic Account Statements and
Annual Financial Reports
Comment
File 09-003
|
NASA:
Mars in 3-D
Wed, 25 Feb 2009 23:00:00 -0600
This first of its kind three-dimensional picture of Mars' north
pole, taken in 1999, enables scientists to estimate the volume
of its water ice cap with...
|
|
Unemployment Insurance Weekly Claims
Report for the U.S. Department of Labor
This information has recently been updated.
In the week ending Feb. 21, the advance
figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 667,000, an
increase of 36,000 from the previous week's revised figure of
631,000. The 4-week moving average was 639,000, an increase of
19,000 from the previous week's revised average of 620,000.
Read
the full news release.
|
|
Birmingham
Most Wanted for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Atlanta
Most Wanted for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Mobile
Most Wanted for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
San
Antonio Most Wanted for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Audit of the City of Newburgh, New York’s
administration of its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
program
The objectives of our audit were to determine
whether the City (1) administered its CDBG program effectively,
efficiently, and economically in accordance with applicable rules
and regulations, and (2) expended CDBG funds for eligible activities
that met a national objective of the program.
The audit disclosed that the City did not always carry out its
activities effectively, efficiently, and economically in compliance
with HUD regulations, and expended CDBG funds for activities
that did not meet a national objective of the program. Specifically,
the City routinely charged certain costs to the CDBG program
without adequate support or detail, could not adequately demonstrate
that CDBG program funds were used for eligible activities that
achieved program objectives, awarded a contract for consulting
services without ensuring compliance with federal procurement
requirements, charged costs to the CDBG program without evidence
that all of the contract services provided related to the City’s
CDBG program. As a result, the City could not ensure that only
reasonable and necessary administrative costs were charged to
its CDBG program.
We recommend that HUD instruct the City to (1) provide supporting
documentation to justify the eligibility of $894,793 in questionable
CDBG disbursements or reimburse the program from nonfederal funds
any amounts not supported, (2) establish procedures to ensure
adequate monitoring of subrecipient-administered activities,
and (3) establish procedures to ensure compliance with CDBG program
requirements.
This electronic report has been posted to our website and may
be viewed directly via this link. The PDF version will allow
you to print the report to your local printer.
http://www.hud.gov/utilities/intercept.cfm?/offices/oig/reports/files/ig0921008.pdf
Jennifer Burns
Administrative Officer
HUD/OIG/Office of Audit
202/402-8136
|
|
Jackson
Most Wanted for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
New
Orleans Most Wanted for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Jacksonville
Most Wanted for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
CDRH updates
Federal Register: Agency Information Collection
Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Medical Device
Reporting: Manufacturer, Importer, User Facility, and Distributor
Reporting
PMA Final
Decisions for January 2009
Previous CDRH New Items can be found on
the CDRHNew
Page.
|
HUD announces funding allocations and eligible
grantees for the new Recovery Act homelessness prevention program
This information is available at: www.hud.gov/recovery.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, signed on February
17th, 2009, provides $1.5 billion, allocated according to the
current Emergency Shelter Grants formula with a grant minimum
of $500,000, to help families who are either homeless or at imminent
risk of becoming homeless. This program will provide financial
and other assistance to prevent individuals and families from
becoming homeless and help those who are experiencing homelessness
to be quickly re-housed and stabilized. The funds under this
program are intended to target individuals and families who would
be homeless but for this assistance. The funds will provide
for a variety of assistance, including: short-term or medium-term
rental assistance and housing relocation and stabilization services,
including such activities as mediation, security or utility
deposits, utility payments, moving cost assistance, and case
management.
|
|
Cms.hhs.gov- Mandatory Insurer Reporting
for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now
available.
|
ticker timeline 03:19 Eastern Time Friday
February 27, 2009
|
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. A new
speech, Scientific
and Technical Subcommittee of the United Nations, “New Beginnings”,
is now available.
|
TRICARE Beneficiary Bulletin 04
02/26/09 5 min 04 sec
Philippine Claims - Strong Bones - Mental and Behavioral Health
Providers
To listen to this podcast visit: http://www.tricare.mil/pressroom/press_audio.aspx
|
|
Office
of the Inspector General Reports and Publications: OIG Releases
US Department of State
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 07:04:45 -0600
OIG Releases
The following reports are now available on the Web site of the
Office of Inspector General:
Embassy
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (ISP-I-09-04A) (10-08)
Embassy
Montevideo, Uruguay (ISP-I-09-06A) (10-08)
U.S. Mission to the United Nations and Other International
Organizations,
Geneva, Switzerland (ISP-I-08-51A) (Sept 2008)
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|
Using Other Health Insurance with TRICARE
TRICARE Blog
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Posted by: Major General Elder Granger
All beneficiaries should understand their
TRICARE benefit, which includes how TRICARE pays claims for beneficiaries
who have other health insurance (OHI) . Understanding how the
two work together is very important for ensuring timely and accurate
claims processing.
To read the entire blog entry visit: http://www.health.mil/tmablog/Article.aspx?ID=481
|
Missile
Defense Costs
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 07:15:49 -0600
The Defense Department is working to reduce the costs associated
with missile defense testing.
|
Freedom
Watch Afghanistan
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 06:55:25 -0600
The latest from Operation Enduring Freedom showing the activities
of American troops in country. Produced by AFN-Afghanistan.
|
|
Checking the Status of Your Federal
Tax Refund is Easy
IRS.GOV Issue Number: TT-2009-39
Inside This Issue
If you already filed your federal tax return
and are due a refund, you can check the status of your refund
online, in English or Spanish.
Where’s My Refund? and ¿Dónde está
mi reembolso? are interactive tools on the IRS Web site at IRS.gov.
Whether you split your refund among several accounts, opted for
direct deposit into one account, or asked the IRS to mail you
a check, Where’s My Refund? and ¿Dónde está
mi reembolso? give you online access to your refund information
nearly 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you e-file, you can get refund information 72 hours after
IRS acknowledges receipt of your return. If you file a paper
return, refund information will be available within three to
four weeks. When checking the status of your refund, have your
federal tax return handy. To get your personalized refund information
you must enter:
Your Social Security Number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification
Number).
Filing status (Single, Married Filing Joint Return, Married Filing
Separate Return, Head of Household, or Qualifying Widow(er)).
Exact refund amount shown on your tax return.
Once you enter your personal information, you could get several
responses, including:
Acknowledgement that your return was received and is in processing.
The mailing date or direct deposit date of your refund.
Notice that the IRS could not deliver your refund due to an incorrect
address. In this instance, you can change or correct your address
online using Where’s My Refund?
Where’s My Refund? also includes links to customized information
based on your specific situation. The links guide you through
the steps to resolve any issues affecting your refund. For example,
if you do not get the refund within 28 days from the original
IRS mailing date shown on Where’s My Refund?, you can start
a refund trace online.
Where’s My Refund? is also accessible to visually impaired
taxpayers who use the Job Access with Speech screen reader used
with a Braille display and is compatible with different JAWS
modes.
If you do not have internet access, you can check the status
of your refund by calling the IRS TeleTax System at 800-829-4477
or the IRS Refund Hotline at 800-829-1954. When calling, you
must provide your or your spouse’s Social Security number,
your filing status and the exact refund amount shown on your
return.
Refunds are sent out weekly on Fridays. If you check the status
of your refund and are not given the date it will be issued,
please wait until the next week before checking back.
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|
AWMIT - EPA Agstar Handouts
I've scanned some items I picked up from
the EPA's Agstar Conference in
Baltimore, MD. EPA provided a fact sheet on cost for anaerobic
digesters for dairy farms that I thought was very good information.
I
also included a summary of new farm bill loan guarantee that
might be
applicable to digesters as well. I've included the attendee
list and
the exhibitors list as well. This list may be helpful in determining
current vendors in anaerobic digestion / carbon credit trading
industry.
The attendee list has contact information and websites so you
can look
up more detailed vendor information if desired.
If EPA makes more presentation material
available on their website, I'll
let you know.
Bill
AWMIT - EPA Agstar Handouts PDF
Bill Reck, P.E.
Environmental Engineer
USDA NRCS
East National Technology Support Center
2901 East Lee Street, Suite 2100
Greensboro, NC 27401
(336) 370-3353
|
Security,
Development Intertwine in Afghanistan War
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:45:00 -0600
|
U.S.
Soldiers Train Iraqis to Enforce Border With Iran
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 09:09:00 -0600
|
|
The Division of Drug Information (DDI)
is CDER's focal point for public inquiries
We serve the public by providing information
on human drug products and drug product regulation by FDA.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that a facility
owned by India-based Ranbaxy Laboratories falsified data and
test results in approved and pending drug applications. The facility,
Paonta Sahib, has been under an FDA Import Alert since September
2008.
The FDA is continuing to investigate this matter to ensure the
safety and efficacy of marketed drugs associated with Ranbaxy’s
Paonta Sahib site. To date, the FDA has no evidence that these
drugs do not meet their quality specifications and has not identified
any health risks associated with currently marketed Ranbaxy products.
In the meantime, the FDA recommends that patients not disrupt
their drug therapy because this could jeopardize their health.
Individuals who are concerned about their medications should
talk with their health care professional.
To address the falsified data, the FDA has invoked its Application
Integrity Policy (AIP) against the Paonta Sahib facility. The
AIP is invoked when a company’s actions raise significant
questions about the integrity of data in drug applications. This
AIP covers applications that rely on data generated by the Paonta
Sahib facility only.
Under the AIP, the FDA has asked Ranbaxy to cooperate with the
agency to resolve the questions of data integrity and reliability.
This would include implementing a Corrective Action Operating
Plan (CAOP) to provide assurance of the integrity and reliability
of data from the Paonta Sahib facility. A CAOP includes, but
is not limited to, conducting a third-party independent audit
of applications associated with Paonta Sahib.
When the AIP is implemented, the FDA stops all substantive scientific
review of any new or pending drug approval applications that
contain data generated by the Paonta Sahib facility.
For more information, please visit: http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2009/NEW01962.html
|
Feds
Allege Three New Investment Frauds
Forbes - NY,USA
Paul Greenwood and Stephen Walsh are accused to bilking institutions
like university foundations and charities, including a $21 million
investment made Feb. ...
|
SBA
Disaster Loan Center Opening In Sedro-Woolley
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 06:27:53 -0600
OLYMPIA, Wash. -- Disaster officials announced today that the
Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Sedro-Woolley, which is closing
Thursday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m., will be converted to a U.S. Small
Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC)
beginning Friday, Feb. 27, at 8 a.m.
|
VACANCY:
Technological Hazards Program Specialist, GS-0301-13/14 FEMA
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:49:15 -0600
AN236602 (Closing Date: Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EDT)
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Hartsfield International Airport Receives
Award For Keeping the Skies Clear
Contact Information: Dawn Harris-Young, (404) 562-8421, harris-young.dawn@epa.gov
(Atlanta, Ga. – February 26, 2009) — The United States
Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Southeast Diesel
Collaborative has recognized Hartsfield International Airport
with the Leadership Council Award, during a reception event yesterday
evening at the Southeastern Lifecycle Construction Conference.
This is the first year the Southeastern Diesel Collaborative
(SEDC) Leadership Council has presented the Leadership Award
to recognize an exemplary project in emissions reductions in
the southeast.
During the building of the 5th runway, Hartsfield used state
of the art conveyer technology, which prevented the need for
nearly 5 million dump trucks and almost 30 months of extra work.
This also eliminated nearly 2,600 tons of harmful emissions,
while using clean construction equipment. A dump truck typically
emits as much particulate matter as 500 new cars. By eliminating
the need for dump trucks to move dirt, Hartsfield saved fuel
and money, reducing pollution and providing a healthier environment
for their employees and the neighboring community.
“EPA is proud to recognize the efforts of Hartsfield to
improve air quality and protect public health,” said Stan
Meiburg, EPA Acting Regional Administrator. “Because emissions
from diesel engines are a serious public health threat and environmental
challenge, reducing these emissions is a priority for EPA.”
"Hartsfield-Jackson and the city of Atlanta are committed
to seeking innovative and cost-effective solutions to environmental
management issues. The dirt conveyor system for the Airport's
fifth runway is a great example of this commitment, eliminating
nearly 2.5 million dump truck trips and associated emissions,"
Ben DeCosta, Hartsfield-Jackson aviation general manager.
The Southeast Diesel Collaborative is a partnership composed
of leaders from federal, state and local government, the private
sector and other stakeholders in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky,
Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The
goal of the collaborative is to improve air quality by encouraging
the use of clean, renewable energy and by reducing diesel emissions
from existing engines and equipment from the agriculture, heavy
construction and on-road sectors.
The Southeast Diesel Collaborative is part
of EPA’s National Clean Diesel Campaign, a program combining
regulatory measures with voluntary initiatives to reduce pollution
emitted from diesel engines across the country. Visit the Southeast
Diesel Collaborative at http://www.southeastdiesel.org
and the National Clean Diesel Campaign at: http://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel.
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World War II MIAs recovered in Germany
Release No. 02-06-09
Feb. 26, 2009
by 2nd Lt. Kathleen Polesnak
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
HENRI-CHAPELLE, Belgium (AFRNS) -- A line in the Airman's creed
states, "I will never leave an Airman behind." For
the McMurray Crew 801 with the 492nd Bombardment Group, that
promise was fulfilled, albeit 60-plus years after their B-24
bomber went down during World War II.
An international crowd gathered Feb. 20 at the Henri-Chapelle
American Cemetery and Memorial in Belgium to honor the McMurray
Crew's nine members who were listed as missing in action. Their
remains were recovered in a field southwest of Berlin in 2002.
At the ceremony, nine rosettes -- small flower-shaped pendants
-- were placed next to each crew member's engraved name on a
memorial to signify they are no longer missing.
"When we actually find a rosette by the names of the missing,
it's closure. For these parents, there's not a grave, so that's
why the name on the wall is so important," said retired
Army Brig. Gen. Steven R. Hawkins, director of the European region
for the American Battle Monuments Commission.
Relishing a rarity
Of the three and a half years General Hawkins has spent working
as the director for American cemeteries and battle grounds in
Europe, he has only seen three other rosettes placed next to
MIA servicemembers' names. Finding the remains of missing military
members, especially from World Wars I and II, is rare.
And the story of how the Airmen with the McMurray Crew were found
is even rarer.
Enrico Schwartz, a German native who works for an IBM company,
has been part of the Allied Aircrew Research Team since 1998.
During the past decade, he's helped recover the remains of American
servicemembers, including the nine with the McMurray crew.
"The main part for me is giving closure," Mr. Schwartz
said. "There's no closure when there are still open wounds."
It took four years of researching and interviewing witnesses
to find the nine men's remains.
"It started as a favor, and when I learned how much impact
this has, I carried on," Mr. Schwartz said.
From the years of personal time and expenses Mr. Schwartz spent,
to the number of Belgians, Germans and other non-Americans present,
it was clear these nine American Airmen had an impact beyond
their graves.
"I'm glad I'm here today to pay respects to those who secured
our freedom," said Rick Vissers, a Belgian native who works
on infrastructure at the NATO Programming Centre. "Two
words: Thank you."
Mr. Vissers spoke of the long-time friendship between Belgians
and Americans that stems from their support for one another during
the war.
"My town was a rest area in World War II -- Americans needed
ammunition and fuel and were invited by local the people to get
inside," he said. "They became so close that after
60 years, they still know each other."
Ralf Klodt, a German photojournalist at the ceremony, echoed
Mr. Visser's gratitude toward American troops, as the 78th infantry
division liberated his hometown, Konigswinter, during World War
II. Mr. Klodt said regardless of which side of the war people
were on, it's important to remember the positive stories that
still thrive today.
"It's about the human aspect of war; what have they experienced,"
he said. "It's the German side, the Allied side, the civilian
side. It's important to keep it alive and to tell the right
stories."
Fog of war
A thick fog and steady rain didn't deter the patriotic group
of onlookers at the ceremony. A row of Belgian children waved
small American flags as a group of older Belgian men clutched
their full-sized Belgian flags. Also present were local mayors,
and military representatives from Greece, Great Britain, France,
Spain, Portugal, Italy, Turkey and Slovakia.
Airmen from NATO headquarters in Brussels, NPC, Supreme Headquarters
Allied Powers Europe, Belgium; the U.S. Embassy; Aviano Air Base,
Italy; Geilenkirchen AB, Germany; and Spangdahlem AB, Germany,
were present for the ceremony.
Staff Sgt. Ralph Oliver, a NPC material manager, stood at parade
rest next to a pedestal holding the rosettes during the entire
ceremony.
"For me, it was an honor. This is one of the things I enjoy
doing in the military," Sergeant Oliver said. "I'm
glad and grateful to be honoring our fallen comrades. It was
cold, but I think it was well worth it. I held my military bearing
as much as I could."
The SHAPE International Band played "Ruffles and Flourishes"
and other patriotic music, and the Spangdahlem AB honor guard
gave a 21-gun salute to the fallen Airmen.
Capt. Apphia Fairhurst, deputy project leader for Network-interoperable
Realtime Information Services and NPC Integrated Solaris Platform,
read some of the Airmens' biographies during the ceremony, and
said the event was a wake-up call for young military members.
"The biggest thing had been all of us are about 21 to 28
and that was the age of (the B-24 crew)," she said. "A
lot of us took it a lot more seriously once we found out the
ages of the people involved."
For each of the nine fallen Airmen, someone from their home state
placed a rosette next to their names. Staff Sgt. Melissa Johnson,
from the NPC customer service desk, placed a rosette next to
Staff Sgt. Walter Schlosser's name, as they both are from Michigan.
"Especially when you hear about personal stories, it's just
unbelievable after this many years that they're finally being
given the proper respect," Sergeant Johnson said.
Tech. Sgt. Tommy Van, a NPC computer programmer, was the NCO
in charge of the event, and had his hands in the process since
November 2008.
"The most rewarding thing for me has been getting in contact
with the families and learning the history," he said. "It
gives you a sense that these are real people. This really puts
a name on a face with a personal impact."
Honoring Airmen
Air Force leaders at the ceremony reminded today's generation
that we can never leave Airmen behind.
"I think it's an attribute that should stick with all our
Airmen. No matter when, there's always people looking for those
who are lost," said Maj. Gen. Thomas B. Wright, the SHAPE
deputy chief of staff of operations.
General Wright was the keynote speaker at the ceremony, and during
his speech, he referenced the Airman's creed and the significance
it should hold for all Airmen, past and present.
The responsibility given to the members of the McMurray crew
was astounding by today's standards, said Lt. Col. Cindi Deiana,
a SHAPE special adviser for international affairs, as they were
all younger than 30 and the highest ranking officers were first
lieutenants.
"I think that the crew is an example of so many of the Army
Air Corps that took an extraordinary request and made it common
place," Colonel Deiana said. "It's amazing what we
asked of Airmen in World War II. It was typical. We asked things
of Airmen that are inconceivable today." (Courtesy of Air
Force Print News)
---
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Obama Remits U.S. Budget Proposal for
Fiscal Year 2010
26 February 2009
Obama Submits U.S. Budget Proposal for
Fiscal Year 2010
Annual recommendation lays out president’s funding priorities
Submitting his budget to Congress February 26, President Obama
said “a budget is more than simply numbers on a page.”
WASHINGTON — “A budget is more
than simply numbers on a page,” President Obama said as
his administration submitted a summary of his proposed federal
budget for fiscal year 2010 to Congress February 26.
“It is a measure of how well we are
living up to our obligations to ourselves and one another. It
is a test for our commitment to making America what it was always
meant to be: a place where all things are possible for all people.”
The president is required by law to send
a budget request to Congress each February. This document typically
comprises thousands of pages that offer detailed information
on proposed spending — funding increases or cuts for each
federal agency. However, the Obama administration, citing the
president’s short time in office, said it submitted a 146-page
summary and will follow up with a more detailed document in April.
Obama’s first budget proposal, which
calls for outlays of nearly $3.55 trillion, focuses on “investments
that will make America stronger, more competitive and more prosperous
in the 21st century.” These investments would include supporting
new energy sources, improving America’s education system
and reforming U.S. health care.
The president’s budget projects a
2009 deficit of $1.75 trillion — the highest level expressed
as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) in decades. The
president has said he will seek to reduce the deficit by the
end of his presidency by eliminating wasteful programs, overpayments
and tax loopholes.
Obama said the $3.55 trillion budget proposal
for 2010 will be noticeably larger than the budget request for
2009 because the Obama administration has included the costs
of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. During the Bush administration,
these expenses were set forth in a separate supplemental request.
“In keeping with my commitment to
make our government more open and transparent, this budget is
an honest accounting of where we are and where we intend to go,”
the president said. “We need to be honest with ourselves
about what costs are being racked up because that's how we'll
come to grips with the hard choices that lie ahead.”
Total annual spending by the U.S. federal
government in recent years has hovered around 16 percent of the
nation’s GDP. Total government spending including state
and local governments accounts for about 28 percent of GDP in
the United States, a level that is one of the lowest among industrialized
nations. In many countries in Western Europe, government spending
accounts for half the national GDP.
Management and Budget Director Peter Orszag
will be one of the president’s chief advocates for his budget.U.S.
government spending provides for the public good — services
needed by society that benefit all, but which the private sector
has little or no incentive to provide. Such services include
things like national defense, public safety, education and the
management of natural resources. Government activities also include
issuing currency, collecting taxes and maintaining economic order.
The annual federal budget proposal is a
valuable financial tool, but it is also a powerful way for the
president to communicate to Congress and to the citizens the
priorities of his administration.
This process is mirrored at the state level,
as governors present budget proposals that highlight their priorities
to state legislatures for consideration. In state governments,
the entire funding process sometimes is concluded within weeks.
At the federal level, the process stretches out over many months.
FIRST STEP IN A LONG PROCESS
The submission of the president’s
budget is the starting point for setting federal spending priorities
for the fiscal year that begins October 1. Because the Constitution
reserves the authority to raise and spend money for the federal
government to Congress, the president’s budget is simply
a recommendation. The actual spending amounts, or appropriations,
will be hammered out over several months in a series of actions
in Congress and negotiations between Congress and the White House.
The president’s budget process was
established in 1921 to increase coordination within the federal
government and restrain spending. Previously, individual government
agencies petitioned Congress for funds directly. The shift to
a consolidated funding request increased the president’s
influence over the budget.
The White House prepares the annual budget
request after consultation with all federal government entities,
soliciting information from the various departments and independent
agencies to create a request that will support government functions
effectively and help implement the president’s policies,
both domestic and international.
The Office of Management and Budget, an
agency within the executive branch, is in charge of compiling
and analyzing budget data for the White House. It generates the
actual budget document (traditionally issued as a multivolume
set of large, softcover books) and serves as an advocate for
the president’s spending policies.
Following the president’s submission,
Congress gets to work on drafting a dozen separate appropriation
bills to fund various categories of spending, such as agriculture,
defense or natural resources. These bills include provisions
to fund federal government activities and also allocate money
to run programs at the state and local level. Appropriation bills
can spark fierce debates between Democrats and Republicans, and
between senators and representatives. The spending measures promoted
by a member of Congress generally are based on regional, demographic
or economic factors in his or her home state.
Additional information on the president’s
proposed
budget for fiscal year 2010 is available on the White House
Web site.
The full text of the proposed
budget for fiscal year 2010 (PDF, 2 MB) is available on the
Government Printing Office Web site.
http://www.america.gov/st/usg-english/2009/February/20090226142631hmnietsua0.4334986.html&distid=
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Obama's
budget is the end of an era
Los Angeles Times - CA,USA
The question now is whether Congress will go along. The question
applies, in particular, to Blue Dog Democrats, members of the
House and Senate who in ...
|
|
Military
Medical Digest for Military Health System
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Most
Class Action Plaintiffs Don't Seek Certification
Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:32:00 -0600
A recent study finds that plaintiffs in most diversity cases
never asked a judge to "certify a class" of those allegedly
affected similarly.
|
Various
Techniques For Change Used by Probation Officers
Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:32:00 -0600
Federal probation officers employ various techniques aimed at
modifying antisocial behavior and thereby reduce recidivism among
offenders.
|
More
than 1 Million Criminals Punished Under Sentencing Guidelines
Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:32:00 -0600
By the end of fiscal year 2008, more than one million federal
offenders had been sentenced under the Sentencing Guidelines.
The demographics of those sentenced has changed little over the
past 17 years.
|
Senate
To Investigate CIA's Actions Under Bush
By The Huffington Post News Editors
Reporting from Washington -- The Senate Intelligence Committee
is preparing to launch an investigation of the CIA's detention
and interrogation programs under President George W. Bush, setting
the stage for a sweeping examination of ...
|
Federal
Chief Judges Cite Mixed Blessings
Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:32:00 -0600
Every federal court is led by a chief judge, whose position offers
unique opportunities and challenges.
|
Mortgage
Relief Bill Set for House Vote
Posted: 25 Feb 2009 04:00 PM PST
By JULIE HIRSCHFELD DAVIS
WASHINGTON - Debt-strapped homeowners facing foreclosure could
resort to bankruptcy to force reductions in their monthly mortgage
payments under a measure awaiting a House vote.
|
Drug
Cartel's Tentacles Stretch Across the U.S.
Posted: 25 Feb 2009 04:00 PM PST
By DEVLIN BARRETT
WASHINGTON - Mexican drug cartels are shipping more than massive
quantities of drugs north of the border. Increasingly, they're
also exporting bloody mayhem.
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Federal
Election Commission Clarification of 2/24/09 Tip
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 07:34:20 -0600
The March 30 deadline listed in the Commission's February 17
Federal Register Notice for lobbyist/registrant PACs to amend
their FEC Form 1 (Statement of Organization) is incorrect. As
noted in our tip of February 24, the actual deadline for filing
the Form 1 amendments is Sunday, March 29, 2009. A corrected
Federal Register notice will be published shortly; in the meantime,
here
is an annotated version noting the correction to be made.
|
|
Federal Election Commission Resources
for Committee Treasurers Update
A clarification of our February 24 tip
for treasurers has been posted at http://www.fec.gov/info/TipsforTreasurers.shtml#tip20090226.
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U.S. Department of Transportation Unveils
2010 Budget Framework
DOT 23-09
Contact: Jill Zuckman, Tel.: (202) 366-4570
Thursday, February 26, 2009
The U.S. Department of Transportation today
unveiled the framework of its proposed fiscal year 2010 budget.
Additional budget details will be available in April of this
year.
President Obama has laid out a fiscally
responsible blueprint for 2010 and the Administration will work
closely with the Congress over the next few months to determine
the details for funding surface transportation.
“This Administration inherited a difficult
problem – a system that can no longer pay for itself,”
Secretary LaHood said. “We are looking at every option to
solve it, but we are not going to be ready overnight.”
The budget proposal does provide a broad
framework that commits funds for sustainable solutions for surface
transportation, explores options to make the nation’s communities
more livable through increased funding for public transit, supports
development of a high speed rail network across the country and
supports the Next Generation Air Transportation System to modernize
the air traffic control system.
“This budget is a start toward setting
the nation’s transportation system on a sustainable path,”
LaHood added.
To provide Americans a 21st Century transportation
system, the Administration has proposed a five-year $5 billion
high-speed rail state grant program. This funding will build
on the $8 billion down payment in the American Recovery and Reinvestment
Act of 2009 and marks President Obama’s commitment to provide
Americans a practical and environmentally sustainable alternative
to flying or driving.
The budget provides approximately $800
million for the Next Generation Air Transportation System, a
long-term effort to improve the efficiency, safety, and capacity
of the air traffic control system. The 2010 budget supports moving
from a ground-based radar surveillance system to a more accurate
satellite-based surveillance system, development of more efficient
routes through the airspace, and improvements in aviation weather
information.
The Administration is committed to maintaining
small communities’ access to the National Airspace System.
The budget provides a $55 million increase over the Department’s
2009 level to fulfill current program requirements as demand
for subsidized commercial air service increases.
To more transparently display program resources,
the Administration proposes changing the budgetary treatment
of transportation programs to show both budget authority and
outlays as discretionary. The change will convey to the taxpayer
the real costs of supporting the transportation infrastructure
our nation needs.
###
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ticker timeline 01:59 Eastern Time Friday
February 27, 2009
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FDIC Closes on a $1.45 Billion Structured
Sale of Distressed Loans
February 26, 2009 Media Contact:
David Barr (202) 898-6992
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
(FDIC) today announced the conclusion of the sale of $1.45 billion
of performing and nonperforming residential and commercial construction
loans in distressed markets through the use of two private/public
partnership transactions. These structured sales utilize the
asset management expertise of the private sector, while retaining
for the FDIC a participation interest in all future cash flows
generated by the workout of the assets over time.
In the two recent transactions, the FDIC placed the loans, which
were exclusively from the failed First National Bank of Nevada,
into a limited liability corporation (LLC). The FDIC retained
an 80 percent interest in the assets with the winning bidder
picking up an initial 20 percent stake. Once certain performance
thresholds are met, the FDIC's interest drops to 60 percent.
The future expenses and income will be shared on the percentage
ownership of the purchaser and the FDIC.
"The FDIC is drawing on its previous successes and those
of the Resolution Trust Corporation," said James Wigand,
Deputy Director, Division of Resolutions and Receiverships. "During
the last banking crisis, when asset values were similarly difficult
to ascertain, these types of structures ultimately resulted in
superior recoveries relative to the then-depressed market valuations."
By retaining a participation interest in the structure, the FDIC
as receiver will benefit in the future return of the portfolio
in addition to receiving immediate proceeds from the purchaser
for its 20 percent interest in the portfolio.
The successful bidders on the two transactions were Diversified
Business Strategies and Stearns Bank NA. The FDIC hired the financial
advisor Keefe Bruyette Woods to market the LLC to potential bidders.
In all, 18 separate bidders submitted 30 unique bids for both
pools of loans.
The closure of this sale brings the total amount of assets sold
utilizing private/public partnership transactions to approximately
$3.2 billion over the last year, in five separate transactions.
Based on the success of the program and the positive feedback
received from the private sector, the FDIC anticipates it will
utilize this and similar sales strategies in the future.
# # #
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Homeland Security Advisory Council Home
Page for U.S. Department of Homeland Security updated
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available. Updated:
Homeland
Security Advisory Council Charter (PDF, 4 pages - 30 KB)
|
Burris
Presides Over the Senate
New York Times - United States
By AP Senator Roland Burris, Democrat of Illinois, got a chance
to preside over the Senate on Wednesday
|
Updated
CMS Quarterly Provider Update (QPU) -- 02/19/2009 through 02/20/2009
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:50:00 -0600
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Women in Politics Panel at National
Archives March 5
Eleanor Clift To Moderate Free Public Program Exploring Women's
Political Leadership
Washington, D.C. . . . The Foundation for
the National Archives and the National Archives are pleased to
present a panel discussion, Big Strides, Diverse Paths: Women's
Journeys to Political Leadership, Thursday, March 5, at 7:30
PM. The event will take place in the William G. McGowan Theater
of the National Archives Building in Washington, DC, at Constitution
Avenue and 7th Street, NW. It is free to the public and is generously
supported by the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, Inc.
The influence of women has never been more
prominent in politics, but what challenges did women in leadership
positions face and what are the stories behind their political
journeys? Eleanor Clift, weekly panelist on The McLaughlin Group
and author of Madam President, moderates a panel of women from
diverse backgrounds with various experiences in the political
arena.
Panelists include:
* Marsha Blackburn, U.S. Congresswoman from Tennessee;
* Mazie Hirono, U.S. Congresswoman from Hawaii;
* Grace Napolitano, U.S. Congresswoman from California;
* Madeleine Kunin, former Governor of Vermont and author
of Pearls, Politics, and Power; and
* Jennette Bradley, former Lieutenant Governor of Ohio.
Thora Colot, Executive Director of the
Foundation for the National Archives, said, "We are delighted
to partner with the McGowan Fund for the second year on a National
Archives forum that invites an invigorating and open dialog on
important issues facing women. This year's program promises
fascinating insiders' views of the halls of U.S. Congress and
state houses from women who have risen to the upper echelons
of political power."
The National Archives is fully accessible.
If you need to request an accommodation (e.g., sign language
interpreter) for a public program, please email public.program@nara.gov
or call 202-357-5000 one week prior to the event to ensure proper
arrangements are secured.
# # #
For press information, please contact the
National Archives Public Affairs Staff at: 202-357-5300.
09-55
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DoD
Tax Preparation Help
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:08:42 -0600
There are tax filing websites that make submitting your federal
and state taxes easier.
|
DoD
New Mental Health Clinic
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:28:08 -0600
There is a way servicemembers in Afghanistan can break away from
their high stress environment in order to stay focused.
|
|
IRS Releases Information to Help Employers
Claim COBRA Medical Coverage Credit on Payroll Tax Form
IRS Issue Number: IR-2009-015
Inside This Issue
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today released
new detailed information that will help employers claim credit
for the Consolidated
Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) medical premiums
they pay for their former employees.
The IRS unveiled new
information on this Web site, IRS.gov, that includes an extensive
set of questions
and answers for employers.
In addition, the Web site contains a revised
version of the quarterly payroll tax return that employers will
use to claim credit for the COBRA medical premiums they pay for
their former employees.
Form 941,
Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return, will also be sent
to about 2 million employers in mid-March. The form is used to
claim the new COBRA premium assistance payments credit, beginning
with the first quarter of 2009.
“This is the first step in our effort to provide employers
with information on this important health benefit for people
who have lost their jobs,” said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman.
“We will continue our work in the weeks ahead to help employers
implement this crucial change for the nation’s unemployed.”
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which became
law last week, includes changes to the health benefit provisions
of the Consolidated
Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, commonly referred
to as COBRA. The new law will affect former employees and their
families, employers and others involved in providing COBRA coverage.
Under the new law, eligible former employees, enrolled in their
employer’s health plan at the time they lost their jobs,
are required to pay only 35 percent of the cost of COBRA coverage.
Employers must treat the 35 percent payment by eligible former
employees as full payment, but the employers are entitled to
a credit for the other 65 percent of the COBRA cost on their
payroll tax return.
Employers must maintain supporting documentation for the credit
claimed. This includes:
Documentation of receipt of the employee’s 35 percent share
of the premium.
In the case of insured plans: A copy of invoice or other supporting
statement from the insurance carrier and proof of timely payment
of the full premium to the insurance carrier.
Declaration of the former employee’s involuntary termination.
COBRA provides certain former employees, retirees, spouses, former
spouses and dependent children the right to temporary continuation
of health coverage at group rates. COBRA generally covers health
plans maintained by private-sector employers with 20 or more
full and part-time employees. It also covers employee organizations
or federal, state or local governments. It does not apply to
churches and certain religious organizations. The new COBRA subsidy
provisions also apply to insurers required to offer continuation
coverage under state law similar to the federal COBRA.
More information about COBRA payments and the new law is available
on www.dol.gov.
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|
An FYI to let you know an IDIQ has been
finalized for Jane's Information Group, (JN) for the FY'09 and
4 renewal option periods.
IDIQ no. assigned is [ LC09D7110] .
Online registration will be updated within a couple days.
Thank you for your patience and your continued support of the
FLICC/FEDLINK program.
Kind Regards,
Jim
James W. Oliver
FEDLINK Vendor Services Coordinator
Library of Congress
Washington, DC 20540-4935
V-(202)707-4960, F-(202)707-4955
joli@loc.gov
http://www.loc.gov/flicc
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|
Buffalo
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Immunization Program Evaluation for
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
This information has recently been updated
and is now
available.
|
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VACANCY: Library Support Services
Ms.Taquin E. Mc Mullen
Recruiting Associate/Administrative Assistant to the Director
of Operations & President
Source Staffing, Inc.
301-585-4646 Ex. 10
301-585-0879
MUST BE AVAILABLE TO START IMMEDIATELY!
Must be a Journeyman Level Librarian with
a Master’s of Library Science (MLS), capable of working
independently. The applicant should have knowledge of library
automation principles and practices, including computer equipment
and software (MS Access), strong writing skills and familiarity
with the Voyager Integrated Library system is preferred. THIS
POSITION IS LOCATED IN THE SILVER, SPRING AREA OF MARYLAND. ALL
CANDIDATES MUST BE A UNITED STATES CITIZEN AND ALSO OBTAIN A
FAVORABLE NATIONAL AGENCY CHECK (NACI).
Key areas of Expertise (REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE):
Knowledge of library policy and of collection
development.
Knowledge of Copyright Law.
Requires walking, stooping, bending, reaching, lifting, climbing,
kneeling, pushing library carts.
Must be able to LIFT AND CARRY MODERATE WEIGHTED LOADS (5-45
POUNDS.)
Candidate will conduct an inventory of the entire physical collection
as one of the first projects undertaken.
Must have an excellent knowledge of materials selection, acquisition,
cataloging and processing.
Understanding of Library Science, to include collection development.
Citation analysis.
Knowledgeable about Copyright law
Competent in the following software packages: MS Word, MS Access,
MS Excel, Outlook, Internet Search Engines, Searching Various
Database such as Dialog and PubMED.
Additional preferred expertise/knowledge:
Understanding of military medical research
structure.
Understanding of medical research and animal protocols.
Familiar with National Library of Medicine (NLM) classification
scheme.
Familiar with Voyager Integrated Library Systems (ILS)
Skilled in searching DoD databases such as DTIC (Defense Technical
Information Center)
Knowledge and Skills Required: Must have
an excellent knowledge of materials selection, acquisition, cataloging,
and processing, and be able to translate that knowledge to the
policies and procedures of the department.
Some of the functions for this position
are as follows:
Review all journal title for the department,
title by title, identifying inconsistencies and price gaps.
Prepare book lists for purchase consideration,
ensuring that the content of the work is appropriate.
Responsible for citation analysis of the
journal collection to determine which titles support the departments
research programs, and which are no longer required.
Be capable of performing a full range of
professional level library service tasks, support services including
receiving new items purchased, and entering them into the Integrated
Library System Voyager.
Minimum Education/Experience Requirements:
Master’s of Library Science (Master of Science in Information
Science, or equivalent library science master’s degree)
from an ALA (American Library Association) accredited university.
Additionally, at least one year of experience is preferred.
PLEASE SEND RESUME TO: corp@sourcestaffing.net
or fax to 301-585-0879
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Contact: Katie Grant
202-225-3130
February 26, 2009
Majority Leader Hoyer Statement on President
Obama’s Budget
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Leader
Steny H. Hoyer (MD) issued the following statement today after
President Obama released his budget outline for Fiscal Year 2010:
“Today, President Obama released his budget for Fiscal Year
2010, and it clearly shows the commitment to responsibility that
is becoming a hallmark of the Obama Administration.
“The budget begins with an honest assessment of where we
are: We are running a record deficit, and our national debt has
topped $10 trillion. Those high figures were largely brought
on by years of reckless borrowing. President Obama makes no attempts
to cover up the seriousness of our situation. His budget honestly
accounts for costs that have been hidden for years: the cost
of two wars, indexing the alternative minimum tax, and disaster
relief.
“The budget is also a strong blueprint for getting our Nation
out of its fiscal mess. It makes the hard choices necessary to
save trillions of dollars and cut the deficit in half by 2012.
President Obama has also called for reinstating the pay-as-you-go
rule in law—committing our government to paying for what
it buys. President Obama has led by example by spelling out how
he would pay for his major initiatives, including his tax cuts
for 95% of American workers and investments in healthcare reform
and clean energy.
“Finally, the budget makes investments in long-term economic
growth: access to affordable healthcare, which is essential to
fiscal stability; investments in clean energy technologies and
addressing climate change to bring down the cost of energy in
the long run; and more access to both early and higher education,
which are necessary for a prepared, competitive workforce.
“This is a serious document for serious times, one that
no longer sacrifices long-term needs to the politics of the moment.
I look forward to working with President Obama as we make the
tough decisions necessary for economic and fiscal recovery.”
###
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CANADA: This is your invitation to the
latest round of the POLLARA Online Panel
This survey will take 15 to 18 minutes
of your time. Remember that you can begin the survey now and
come back to it at a later time if you wish.
After completing the full survey, you will
have the opportunity to enter to win one of five $100 gift certificates
from your choice of either Chapters-Indigo, Archambault, or Future
Shop.
Congratulations to our recent winners!
Sharon C., Ontario
Marianna N., Ontario
Ed T., Ontario
Bridget A., Alberta
Please complete the survey for your chance
to win. Please click http://vovici.com/l.dll/JGs8383F9D7C6luTD9U4491976J.htm
to begin the survey!
Thanks and good luck,
the POLLARA team
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Coalition
Brings Afghan Corps Up to Standard With Weapons, Training
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 11:55:00 -0600
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Division for Heart Disease and Stroke
Prevention Updates for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC)
he Division has added 15 new Social Determinants
maps to their web site at http://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/library/maps/social_determinants.htm.
View them today!
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U.S.
Hosts Trilateral Meeting with Afghanistan and Pakistan
Bureau of Public Affairs
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
February 26, 2009
|
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United
States Vote Against UN Resolution (Taken Question)
Bureau of Public Affairs
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
|
Federal
agency opens investigation into oil sale
The Associated Press
NEW YORK (AP) — Federal regulators have opened an investigation
into a massive investment fund that allows small investors to
place bets on the New York ...
|
Iraqi,
U.S. Forces Detain Suspected Criminals, Find Bomb, Weapons
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:02:00 -0600
|
NASA
Statement About Budget Overview for Fiscal Year 2010
Wed, 25 Feb 2009 23:00:00 -0600
During a thorough review of space shuttle Discovery's readiness
for flight, NASA managers decided Friday that more data and possible
testing are required before launching the STS-119 mission to
the International Space Station.
|
Afghan,
Coalition Forces Disrupt Terrorist Network
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:04:00 -0600
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Aircraft
Certification Draft Documents
Open for Comment for U.S. Federal Aviation Administration
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
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Cincinnati
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
President’s Proposed EPA Budget Provides Strengthened
Environmental Protection
Administrator Jackson: ‘With these proposed resources, and
the president’s strong environmental agenda, it should be
overwhelmingly clear that EPA is back on the job.’
Contact: Enesta Jones, 202-564-7873/ 4355 / jones.enesta@epa.gov
(Washington, D.C. – Feb. 26, 2009) The Obama administration
today proposed a budget of $10.5 billion for the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, the largest in the agency’s 39-year history.
The increase of $3 billion from 2008 funding levels will further
ensure the protection of public health and the environment for
all Americans.
“The president’s budget proposes critical resources
to protect the American people and the places where they live,
work and play,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson.
“We are no longer faced with the false choice of a strong
economy or a clean environment. The president’s budget shows
that making critical and responsible investments in protecting
the health and environment of all Americans will also lead to
a more vibrant and stable economy. With these proposed resources,
and the president’s strong environmental agenda, it should
be overwhelmingly clear that EPA is back on the job.”
Last week, President Obama announced the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act of 2009, which includes $7.22 billion for EPA-administered
projects and programs to protect human health and the environment.
Some key highlights of 2010 budget initiatives include:
· $3.9 billion for the Clean Water State Revolving
Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund grants to support
approximately 1,000 clean water projects and 700 drinking water
projects - this year’s largest single investment. In addition
to the funds recently invested through the ARRA, this funding
is a critical step in addressing the water infrastructure needs
in thousands of communities across the country. EPA will work
with state and local partners to develop a sustainability policy,
including management and pricing, conservation, security and
a plan for adequate long-term state and municipal funding for
future capital needs.
· A new $475 million, multi-agency Great Lakes
Initiative to protect the world’s largest fresh water resource.
EPA will coordinate with federal partners, states, tribes, localities
and other entities to protect, maintain and restore the chemical,
biological and physical integrity of the lakes. EPA and its partners
will address invasive species, non-point source pollution, habitat
restoration, contaminated sediment and other critical issues.
· A $19 million increase for the greenhouse gas
emissions inventory and related activities that will provide
data critical for implementing a comprehensive climate change
bill. EPA’s funding for climate change investments is the
foundation for working with key stakeholders and Congress to
develop an economy-wide cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions approximately 83 percent below 2005 levels by 2050.
· Strengthening EPA’s core research, enforcement
and regulatory capabilities. The budget request also proposes
reinstating the Superfund excise taxes that expired. Reinstating
the Superfund taxes would collect over $1 billion annually to
fund the cleanup of the nation’s most contaminated sites.
More information on EPA’s FY 2010 budget request: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/
R040
View
all news releases related to miscellaneous topics
|
|
Contact: Katie Grant
202-225-3130
February 26, 2009
Hoyer Statement on Floor Schedule for
Housing Legislation
WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader
Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement regarding
the Floor schedule:
“The House has concluded general debate on H.R. 1106, the
Helping Families Save Their Homes Act of 2009. To allow time
for more discussion, I expect to complete consideration and vote
on the bill likely Tuesday of next week.”
###
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EPA awards over $4.8 million to Midwest
Clean Diesel partners; Wis. DOT gets $750,000
Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon, 312-353-6218,
cannon.phillippa@epa.gov
No. 09-OPA023
(Chicago, Ill. - Feb. 26, 2009) U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency Region 5 today announced the award of more than $4.8 million
in grants to 13 state and local partners as part of the Midwest
Clean Diesel Initiative. These regional grants come from the
$49.2 million 2008 National Clean Diesel Campaign.
EPA presented a $750,000 check to one of the grant recipients,
the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, at a Forward Wisconsin
clean diesel workshop today in Milwaukee.
"The Midwest Clean Diesel Initiative is a collaboration
by government, industry and environmental organizations that
reflects our commitment to protecting public health by reducing
the impacts of diesel pollution," said EPA Acting Regional
Administrator Bharat Mathur. "We have set high goals.
By leveraging public and private money, we are reducing pollution
from existing diesel engines while encouraging new technologies."
The Midwest Clean Diesel Initiative was founded by EPA Region
5 in 2004 to reduce pollution from older diesel engines by making
them run cleaner and eliminating unnecessary idling. Since then,
the partnership has affected more than 600,000 engines.
"EPA looks forward to funding even more of these very worthwhile
clean diesel projects thanks to the American Recovery and Revitalization
Act, better known as the Economic Stimulus Package," added
Mathur.
Under ARRA, about $300 million will go to reducing emissions
from diesel engines nationally. This additional funding is expected
to improve air quality and create jobs at companies that manufacture
emission control devices and idle reduction technologies. EPA
anticipates that it will also create jobs for the technicians
who install these devices on trucks, buses, and construction
equipment.
The groups receiving funding today from the Midwest Clean Diesel
Initiative are:
Illinois Green Fleets (statewide)-$678,604
Chicago Public Schools (City of Chicago)-$373,909
Northwest Indiana Forum Foundation (ArcelorMittal Steel, NW Indiana)-$164,032
Indiana Department of Environmental Management (statewide)-$334,500
NextEnergy Center (Southeast Michigan)-$250,000
Lenawee Intermediate School District (Lenawee County, Mich.)-$154,381
Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port Laker School District (Huron County, Mich.)-$251,100
Clean Energy Coalition (Michigan statewide)-$250,000
Minnesota Environmental Initiative (statewide)-$400,000
Stark County Educational Services Center (Ohio)-$465,364
Clean Fuels Ohio (statewide)-$412,554
Ohio Environmental Council (Franklin and Cuyahoga counties)-$394,589
Wisconsin Department of Transportation (statewide)-$750,000
Projects include a variety of diesel emission reduction approaches
such as retrofit technologies, idle-reduction technologies, cleaner
fuel use, engine upgrades and vehicle or equipment replacement.
Nationwide, diesel engines emit 7.3 million tons of smog-forming
nitrogen oxides and 333,000 tons of soot annually. This pollution
is linked to thousands of premature deaths, hundreds of thousands
of asthma attacks and millions of lost work days. EPA's new
diesel engine standards will significantly reduce emissions from
newly manufactured engines.
More information on EPA Region 5's Midwest Clean Diesel Initiative
is at http://www.epa.gov/midwestcleandiesel
# # #
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CBP
Reminds Travelers Kinder Chocolate Eggs May Not be Imported
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 11:50:51 -0600
Pembina, N.D. - With the Easter season upon us, U.S. Customs
and Border Protection would like to inform importers and the
traveling public that Kinder Chocolate Eggs are banned from import
into the United States. Kinder Chocolate Eggs are banned for
sale and import into the United States because they contain a
toy surprise hidden inside and pose a choking and aspiration
hazard in children younger than three years of age. (more)
|
Law
Enforcement Agencies Conduct Operational Sweep at Greensport
Terminal
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 11:50:51 -0600
Houston - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, along
with Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, U.S. Coast Guard,
Houston Police Department and Harris County Constable Precinct
1 police officers conducted an operational sweep at the Greensport
Terminal at 10 a. (more)
|
Soldier
Becomes First Amputee Accepted to Warrant Officer School
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:02:00 -0600
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Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry (ATSDR) Homepage, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC)
Information concerning the ATSDR Mercury
Report has been added. This information is featured in the Spotlight
section of ATSDR's homepage.
|
Missile
Defense Capable, but Needs More Testing, Pentagon Official Says
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:15:00 -0600
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United
States Department of Defense Image Gallery
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What's New at CBER for U.S. Food &
Drug Administration (FDA)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
Biological
Product Deviation Reporting Electronic Form Instructions
- Update
Posted: 2/26/2009
|
Crisis
Gives Obama a Chance to Make Long-Term Electoral Gains
Bloomberg - USA
“Look within any of those states and you see typically that
Democrats are making big headway in bigger and more dynamic metropolitan
areas and their suburbs ...
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DMIS SIG Roundtable Exchange
Do you have questions about the February 20th Mail List request
for review of the DM Framework
Requirements? Are you confused about how
to reply? Do you need assistance? (Note: DM Framework is the
name we are using to refer to our next generation system instead
of DMIS.) We invite you to participate in a ‘roundtable’
conversation on Wednesday March 4, 12:00 Noon Eastern for a high
level overview and interactive assistance with the review process.
Rick Hauschildt, Disaster Management Program, Senior Training
and Outreach Specialist, will lead our discussion. Please review
the Overview document, Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and DM
Framework Full Requirements documents prior to our meeting, which
may be downloaded from: http://www.disasterhelp.gov/disastermanagement/about/about-ioc.shtm
We appreciate the time and attention it takes to review the documents
as requested; however, your feedback and suggestions are critical,
as we develop future plans and requirements for the DM Framework
system.
IMPORTANT: If you have not logged into
Live Meeting before, check out the following connection instructions
and participant guidelines prior to meeting date/time:
http://www.disasterhelp.gov/disastermanagement/library/documents/LiveMtgInstruct.pdf
(1) Login to MS Live Meeting for visuals: The following login
link can only be used 30 minutes prior to the scheduled meeting
time: https://www.livemeeting.com/cc/eiip/join?id=DMprogram&role=attend
(2) NOTE: New Conference Bridge number:
1 (800)366-7242; Pin 3647 6736#.
We look forward to talking with you in Live Meeting via the conference
bridge.
If you are unable to participate in this week’s meeting
due to other commitments, a recording will be accessible from
the DMIS SIG Presentations Archive at http://www.disasterhelp.gov/disastermanagement/
|
FBI
Seeking Information on More Than 100 Civil Rights-Era Murders
|
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USAID and Coca-Cola Partner to Bring
Clean Water to Mozambique
February 25, 2009
Press Office: 202-712-4320
Public Information: 202-712-4810
www.usaid.gov
CHIMOIO, MOZAMBIQUE - The United States Agency for International
Development (USAID) and Coca-Cola have formed a global alliance
- the Water and Development Alliance (WADA) - to provide clean,
potable water to Mozambique's sixth largest urban region, Chimoio.
This alliance brings together funding commitments from all partners
totaling about $1.79 million, of which $500,000 comes from USAID.
Currently, 10-15 percent of Chimoio's 250,000 residents are served
by an inconsistent and inadequately treated water supply that
poses serious public health risks and hampers industrial and
commercial growth. WADA and its partners will supply running
water to about 25,000 people, 12 schools, one provincial hospital,
one secondary health facility, and local industrial and commercial
users. This project will also improve the health of Chimoio residents,
and increase economic activity and employment.
Coca-Cola is a long standing global USAID partner, but this is
Mozambique's first partnership with the global beverage company.
"We are looking forward to a long and productive relationship
with the possibility of taking this partnership to other provinces
where USAID and Coca Cola operate and have common goals,"
said Todd Amani, USAID Mission Director in Mozambique.
Funds provided by the alliance will be used to rehabilitate the
TextAfrica Water Treatment Plant, part of a dilapidated former
textile factory located on the outskirts of Chimoio. The project
will rehabilitate several parts of the system - including pipes
and pumping stations - to improve water delivery management and
develop cost-recovery polices to ensure that the plant is sustainable
once the work has been completed.
Other projects will focus on 14 boreholes throughout the city.
In addition, workers will extend a secondary water distribution
network to Bairro 4 - a neighborhood indentified by the municipal
and community leaders as most in need of an improved water supply
system. In addition, six new small water systems will be installed
in neighborhoods throughout Chimoio City to provide enough water
for present and future needs.
For more information about USAID and its programs in Mozambique,
visit: www.usaid.gov.
The U.S. Agency for International Development has provided economic
and humanitarian assistance worldwide for nearly 50 years.
|
General
Officer Announcements
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:45:00 -0600
|
|
Insured Banks and Thrifts Lost $26.2
Billion in the Fourth Quarter
Domestic Deposits Increased by 3.8 Percent
February 26, 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
a net loss of $26.2 billion in the fourth quarter of 2008, a
decline of $27.8 billion from the $575 million that the industry
earned in the fourth quarter of 2007 and the first quarterly
loss since 1990. Rising loan-loss provisions, losses from trading
activities and goodwill write-downs all contributed to the quarterly
net loss as banks continue to repair their balance sheets in
order to return to profitability in future periods.
More than two-thirds of all insured institutions were profitable
in the fourth quarter, but their earnings were outweighed by
large losses at a number of big banks. Total deposits increased
by $307.9 billion (3.5 percent), the largest percentage increase
in 10 years, with deposits in domestic offices registering a
$274.1 billion (3.8 percent) increase. And at year-end, nearly
98 percent of all insured institutions, representing almost 99
percent of industry assets, met or exceeded the highest regulatory
capital standards.
"Public confidence in the banking system and deposit insurance
is demonstrated by the increase in domestic deposits during the
fourth quarter," FDIC Chairman Sheila Bair said. "Clearly,
people see an FDIC-insured account as a safe haven for their
money in difficult times."
For all of 2008, insured institutions earned $16.1 billion, a
decline of 83.9 percent from 2007 and the lowest annual total
since 1990. Twelve FDIC-insured institutions failed during the
fourth quarter and one banking organization received assistance.
During the year, a total of 25 insured institutions failed. The
FDIC's "Problem List" grew during the quarter from
171 to 252 institutions, the largest number since the middle
of 1995. Total assets of problem institutions increased from
$115.6 billion to $159 billion.
In its latest release, the FDIC cited deteriorating asset quality
as the primary reason for the drop in industry profits. Loan-loss
provisions totaled $69.3 billion in the fourth quarter, a 115.7
percent increase from the same quarter in 2007. In addition,
the industry reported $15.8 billion in expenses for write-downs
of goodwill (which do not affect regulatory capital levels),
$9.2 billion in trading losses and $8.1 billion in realized losses
on securities and other assets.
The FDIC provided data on industry use of the Temporary Liquidity
Guarantee Program (TLGP), which was established in mid-October
to address credit market disruptions and improve access to liquidity
for insured financial institutions and their holding companies.
The TLGP, which is entirely funded by industry fees that totaled
$3.4 billion as of year-end, has two components. One provides
a 100 percent guarantee of all deposits in noninterest-bearing
transaction accounts, such as business payroll accounts, at participating
institutions. The other provides a guarantee to newly issued
senior unsecured debt at participating institutions. At the end
of December, more than half a million deposit accounts received
over $680 billion in additional FDIC coverage through the transaction
account guarantee, and $224 billion in FDIC-guaranteed debt was
outstanding.
"The debt guarantee program has been effective in reducing
borrowing spreads and improving access to short- and intermediate-term
funding for banking organizations," Chairman Bair noted.
"In recent weeks, banks have been able to issue debt without
guarantees and other corporate borrowers have issued debt more
frequently and in larger amounts. These are positive signs."
Financial results for the fourth quarter and full year are contained
in the FDIC's latest Quarterly Banking Profile, which was released
today.
Among the major findings:
Provisions for loan losses continued to weigh on earnings. Rising
levels of charge-offs and noncurrent loans have required insured
institutions to step up their efforts to increase their reserves
for loan losses. The $69.3 billion in provisions that the industry
added to reserves in the fourth quarter represented over half
(50.2 percent) of its net operating revenue (net interest income
plus total noninterest income), the highest proportion in any
quarter in more than 21 years.
The rising trend in troubled loans persisted in the fourth quarter.
Insured institutions charged off $37.9 billion of troubled loans,
more than twice the $16.3 billion that was charged-off in the
fourth quarter of 2007. The annualized net charge-off rate of
1.91 percent equaled the previous quarterly high set in the fourth
quarter of 1989. The amount of loans and leases that were noncurrent
(90 days or more past due or in nonaccrual status) increased
by $44.1 billion (23.7 percent) during the fourth quarter. At
the end of 2008, a total of 2.93 percent of all loans and leases
were noncurrent, the highest level for the industry since the
end of 1992.
The FDIC's Deposit Insurance Fund reserve ratio fell. A higher
level of losses for actual and anticipated failures caused the
insurance fund balance to decline during the fourth quarter by
$16 billion, to $19 billion (unaudited) at December 31. In addition
to having $19 billion available in the fund, $22 billion has
been set aside for estimated losses on failures anticipated in
2009. The fund reserve ratio declined from 0.76 percent at September
30 to 0.40 percent at year end. The FDIC Board will meet tomorrow
to set deposit insurance assessment rates beginning in the second
quarter of 2009 and to consider adopting enhancements to the
risk-based premium system.
The complete Quarterly Banking Profile is available at http://www2.fdic.gov/qbp/index.asp
on the FDIC Web site.
# # #
|
|
MMWR Press Summaries for CDC
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
CDC Newsroom Update for CDC
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Oprah
at Walter Reed
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:18:13 -0600
Daytime talk show host Oprah Winfrey highlights the struggles
of wounded warriors recovering at Walter Reed Medical Center
in an episode on Thursday.
|
Coast
Guard Rescue
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:25:56 -0600
A U.S. Coast Guard chopper braved hurricane force winds to rescue
four fishermen off the coast of Akutan Island, Alaska.
|
Freedom
Journal Iraq
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 11:22:54 -0600
A daily news program produced by American Forces Network Iraq.
The program focuses on military missions, operations and U.S.
military forces in Iraq.
|
Around
the Services
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:21:25 -0600
President Obama unveils his first budget. There's a new commander
of USS George H.W. Bush. Oprah Winfrey takes her show to Walter
Reed Army Medical Center.
|
|
Secretary
Clinton Congratulates Kosovo's Progress in its Historic First
Year as an Independent State
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Remarks With Kosovar President Fatmir Sejdiu
and Kosovar Prime Minister Hashim Thaci
Benjamin Franklin Room
Washington, DC
February 26, 2009
|
|
HHS Web Council Meeting will be held
on April 2, 2009
from 9 am - 12 pm in the Humphrey Building,
HHS Room 800
You are subscribed to HHS Web Standards, Guidelines & Guidance
for U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services. This information
has recently been updated, and is now
available.
|
Reid
joins Pelosi in opposing weapons ban revival
The Hill - Washington,DC,USA
By J. Taylor Rushing Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid will join
Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) in opposing any effort to revive
the 1994 assault weapons ...
|
|
Accenture
training dates have been scheduled
HHS.gov Section 508 for U.S. Dept. of Health
& Human Services.
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Selected
New Postings on U.S. Department of Justice Web sites
This page has recently been updated with
the following new items:
New
DOJ Web Page: Overview of the American Recovery and Reinvestment
Act of 2009 (2/25/09)
Implementation of the National Guard and Reservists
Debt Relief Act of 2008 (2/24/09)
ATF Explosives Industry Anti-Theft Security Checklist (2/24/09)
Meeting the Needs of Female Juvenile Offenders [Lesson Plan and Participant's Manual] (1/23/09)
|
Cotton-on-Call
for CFTC.gov
The Cotton On-Call Report # 8 is now available.
See previous weeks in Historical
Cotton On-Call Reports.
|
|
Secretary
of State Hillary Rodham Clinton's Travel to the Middle East and
Europe
Robert Wood
Acting Department Spokesman, Office of
the Spokesman
Bureau of Public Affairs
Washington, DC
February 26, 2009
|
|
Genomics & Health Weekly Update
for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now
available.
|
|
EPA Provides $1.35M to Improve Air Quality
in Massachusetts with Clean Diesel Projects
News Release
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
New England Regional Office
February 26, 2009
Contact: David Deegan, (617) 918-1017
(Boston, Mass. – Feb. 26, 2009) –
Significant funding is being delivered to several Massachusetts
projects that will help improve air quality in the Commonwealth.
In a ceremony at the Massachusetts Port
Authority’s (Massport) Boston Fish Pier, EPA announced more
than $1.35 million in funding to help reduce pollution from diesel
vehicles and equipment operating in New England. The grants are
being issued to three Massachusetts-based organizations, and
were made available by EPA through the 2008 Northeast Diesel
Collaborative (NEDC) Emissions Reduction Grant Program.
The funding announced by EPA is going to:
Massport ($400,000) to install dockside power stations at the
Boston Fish Pier; Environmental Defense Fund ($400,000) to introduce
hybrid trucks to New England fleets; and Northeast States for
Coordinated Air Use Management (NESCAUM) ($535,250) to retrofit
regional locomotives.
"Reducing diesel emissions is an effective
way to improve air quality and help people who suffer from asthma
and other respiratory problems,” said Ira Leighton, acting
regional administrator of EPA's New England Office. “These
projects will help bring cleaner air to Massachusetts citizens.”
Diesel engines contribute significantly
to air pollution, especially in urban areas. The fine particles
in diesel exhaust pose serious health risks, including aggravating
heart or lung disease. People with existing heart or lung disease,
such as asthma, older adults, and children are most sensitive
to the health effects of fine particles. The Northeast has some
of the highest asthma rates in the nation, including a childhood
asthma rate above 10 percent in all six New England states. Lifetime
asthma rates in children in Massachusetts are estimated at 14.6
percent.
“The MassCleanDiesel program aims
to reduce the adverse health effects of diesel pollution on our
residents. Emissions from thousands of school and transit buses,
and off-road construction vehicles are now being cleaned up,”
said Laurie Burt, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Dept. of
Environmental Protection (MassDEP). “The EPA grants will
add to the Commonwealth’s efforts to retrofit locomotive
diesel engines and support clean hybrid technologies for diesel
trucks.”
The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport)
will receive $400,000 through the NEDC Emission Reduction Grant
Program to install dock-side power at the Boston Fish Pier. “Shore
power” allows vessels to “plug in” to an electrical
power source instead of using diesel generators while at the
berth. Currently, shore power is available to only four vessels
when docked at the Fish Pier. More than a dozen vessels regularly
dock there, and need to run their diesel generators many hours
per day to supply power for off-loading, maintenance and essential
on-board systems. The project is expected to reduce diesel generator
"idling" by 95 percent. In addition, the fuel and cost-savings
data yielded by this project will be important in helping other
fishing ports in the Northeast decide whether and how to undertake
similar improvements.
"We are pleased to partner with the
EPA on this program that will reduce the impact of our port operations
and help us be more environmentally friendly," said Michael
A. Leone, Massport’s Port Director. "The grant will
significantly reduce diesel emissions, and allow fishermen to
conduct their business in a more energy efficient and cost effective
manner."
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) will receive
$400,000 and the Northeast States for Coordinated Air Use Management
(NESCAUM) will receive $535,250 for projects that reduce diesel
emissions. EDF will use funds to establish the Northeast Hybrid
Truck Consortium. Through the Consortium, EDF will work with
communities and organizations in all six New England states to
replace at least twelve pre-2007 heavy-duty diesel vehicles with
hybrid versions. EPA funds will pay for up to 25 percent of the
cost of the new vehicle.
"Together, Environmental Defense Fund,
NESCAUM, EPA and MassDEP are jump-starting the hybrid truck market
in New England," said Gwen Ruta, vice president at Environmental
Defense Fund. "In tough economic times, these clean, fuel-sipping
trucks make sense for our lungs, for the climate, and for our
wallets."
The Northeast States for Coordinated Air
Use Management (NESCAUM), in partnership with the Providence
& Worcester (P&W) Railroad, will install auxiliary power
units on 17 locomotives built between 1969 and 1988. Installation
of these units will reduce unnecessary idling which will lessen
the amount of particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx)
released into the air. Reducing fuel consumption will also reduce
carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 1,700 tons per year.
In addition, P&W Railroad will continue to fuel their locomotives
with ultra low sulfur diesel fuel ahead of the 2012 mandate,
further reducing harmful emissions.
“The Providence and Worcester Railroad
is a significant regional freight rail line with operations in
Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island and New York. As such,
a diesel emissions reduction project involving P&W has long
been a top priority for the Northeast Diesel Collaborative,”
said Paul Miller, Deputy Director of Northeast States for Coordinated
Air Use Management. “We are very pleased that EPA has seen
fit to fund this particular project.”
Today’s announcement is part of nearly
$2 million in grant funds being awarded in New England by the
EPA through the 2008 NEDC Emissions Reduction Grant program.
The recent passage of the American Recovery
and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) makes available an additional
$300 million nationwide under the Diesel Emissions Reduction
Program for grants and loans to help regional, state and local
governments, tribal agencies, and non-profit organizations with
projects that reduce diesel emissions and create jobs. A Request
for Applications will be issued in the coming weeks. ARRA gives
preference to projects that can be started and completed expeditiously.
Prospective grant applicants can begin preparations now for the
upcoming competitions.
NEDC is a partnership of public and private
organizations working to improve air quality by taking action
to reduce diesel pollution. The NEDC was established in 2005
by Regions 1 and 2 of the U.S. EPA, NESCAUM and the states and
territories of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire,
New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. Puerto Rico joined
in 2007 and the U.S. Virgin Islands in 2008.
For more information:
Northeast Diesel Collaborative (www.northeastdiesel.org)
EPA Diesel in New England information (epa.gov/region1/eco/diesel/index.html)
National EPA Clean Diesel Campaign (epa.gov/otaq/diesel/grantfund.htm)
EDF’s Hybrid Trucks Homepage (http://edf.org/hybridtrucks)
(Note: this link exits EPA Web site)
# # #
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Flag
Officer Assignments
Thu, 26 Feb 2009 14:07:00 -0600
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Big
banks face 'stress tests' from regulators
Saying he understands bank bailouts are unpopular, he insisted
it was the ... New York-based Citigroup already has received
$45 billion in bailout money, ...
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Briefing
Set with Members of First Six-Person Space Station Crew
Wed, 25 Feb 2009 23:00:00 -0600
NASA will hold a media briefing at 1 p.m. CST on Wednesday, March
4, with the four future residents of the International Space
Station who will usher in an era of six-person crews living aboard
the orbiting research laboratory.
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ticker timeline 00:07 Eastern Time Friday
February 27, 2009
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Lebanon
Tribunal Set To Begin Work Next Week
According to the report, Mr. Bellemare will assume office as
Prosecutor of the Special Tribunal on 1 March and continue his
investigations from The Hague in the Netherlands, where the court
is based. ... New York, Feb 26 2009 5:10PM The United Nations
war crimes tribunal set up after the Balkan conflicts of the
1990s today convicted five former high-ranking Yugoslav and Serbian
officials for crimes against humanity, while former Serbian president
. ...
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