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January 13, 2010 for yesterday's ticker entries click here



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January 13, 2010

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Will you join supporters across the country who are calling key MA voters to get the word out?
my.barackobama.com
Calling voters is the single most important thing you can do right now to help pass health reform. It's a special election and turn out is likely
President Obama Signs Executive Order Establishing Council of Governors
Economic Impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Second Quarterly Report
Press Gaggle by Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton
Remarks by the President on Rescue Efforts in Haiti
A Year Taking on Unprecedented Challenges Abroad
Posted by Ben Rhodes on January 12, 2010 at 11:59 AM EST
MLK Technology Challenge
Posted by Cammie Croft on January 12, 2010 at 4:15 PM EST
Health Insurance Companies Exposed Again
Posted by Dan Pfeiffer on January 12, 2010 at 5:42 PM EST
Thoughts and Prayers for Haiti
Posted by Jesse Lee on January 12, 2010 at 11:05 PM EST
Help for Haiti
Posted by Jesse Lee on January 13, 2010 at 9:53 AM EST
White House seeks tech advice from corporate chiefs
from washingtonpost.com - Business by Cecilia Kang
The federal government has corporate envy. So the Obama administration has invited dozens of the nation's top executives to the White House on Thursday seeking tips on how the federal bureaucracy can become leaner and meaner. That means thinking of ways to cut costs and getting federal agencies to...
Obama joins congressional leaders in talks to work out health-care kinks
from washingtonpost.com - Business by Lori Montgomery
President Obama spent several hours with congressional leaders Wednesday in a marathon negotiating session aimed at resolving outstanding differences between the House and Senate Democrats over health-care legislation and pushing his top domestic priority through to final passage.
SEC to offer immunity to financial insiders who give testimony
from washingtonpost.com - Business by Zachary A. Goldfarb
The Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday announced a new policy to persuade insiders to cooperate with investigations, part of a broad restructuring of the agency's Enforcement Division, which has been criticized for moving too slowly in the past.
Dow trades exceed 10,700 for 1st time in 15 months
from Malaysia News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
NEW YORK: The stock market closed higher, following the lead of financial stocks as the heads of several big banks testified before Congress about the financial crisis. Stocks fluctuated early Wednesd...
First U.S. military aid reaches quake-stricken Haiti
from CNN.com - World
With the first of its flights touching down in earthquake-devastated Haiti late Wednesday afternoon, the U.S. began deploying military planes, ships and ground troops to the Caribbean nation.
Mozambique President Dissolves Cabinet Before Inauguration
Mozambique  President Armando Guebuza dissolved cabinet last night ahead of his swearing-in Thursday for a second five-year term.
FDIC Board Seeks Comment on Incorporating Employee Compensation Structures Into the Risk Assessment System
World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates
Issued monthly, WASDE provides the most current USDA forecasts of U.S. and world supply-use balances for major grains, soybeans and products, and cotton, and U.S. supply and use data for sugar and livestock products.
Season-Average Price Forecasts
A futures-price forecasting model is used to provide season-average price forecasts for corn, soybeans, and wheat. In addition to the monthly forecasts for prices received, the model computes a forecast for the counter-cyclical payment rate for each commodity. The 2002 Farm Act provides for counter-cyclical payments when prices are below specified levels.
Latest U.S. Agricultural Trade Data
This data product announces USDA's monthly release of calendar year, fiscal year, year-to-date, and monthly value of U.S. agricultural exports, imports, and trade balance.
Livestock and Meat Trade Data
The Livestock and Meat Trade Data Set contains monthly and annual data for imports and exports of live cattle, hogs, sheep, and goats, as well as beef and veal, pork, lamb and mutton, chicken meat, turkey meat, and eggs. The tables report physical quantities, not dollar values or unit prices. Data on beef and veal, pork, and lamb and mutton are on a carcass-weight-equivalent basis. Breakdowns by country are included.
U.S. Agricultural Trade Data Update
Provides a monthly update of year-to-date quantities and values of U.S. agricultural exports and imports. Also provides data on leading destination countries for exports and import source countries.
Rice Outlook
Examines supply, use, prices, and trade for rice, including supply and demand prospects in major importing and exporting countries. Contains information on U.S. rough, milled, and long-, medium-, and short-grain rice.
Oil Crops Outlook - Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Examines supply, use, prices, and trade for oil crops (primarily soybeans and products), including supply and demand prospects in major importing and exporting countries. Includes information on cottonseed, peanuts, sunflowerseed, tropical oils, corn oil, and animal fats.
UN Secretary-General Says UN Ready to Make 2010 Year of 'Progress, Prosperity and Peace', as He Outlines Strategic Priorities in General Assembly Remarks
Presidents of United Nations Security Council and Chairmen of Military Staff Committee in 2010
Success of UN Cooperation with Regional Bodies Will Be Measured by Improvements in People's Lives, Secretary-General Tells Security Council Meeting
UN Security Council to Promote Closer, More Operational Cooperation between United Nations, Regional Organizations in Early Warning, Peacekeeping, Peacebuilding
UN Secretary-General, Briefing General Assembly on Haiti Disaster, Announces Release of $10 Million in Emergency Funds to Kick-Start Response
Administration Completes Implementation of HFA Initiative
January 13, 2010
2010-1-13-14-29-48-6865
Personnel preparing to take over Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa
Warfighters and civilians who will serve as the headquarters for Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa are training to assume those duties at the Joint Warfighting Center.
Kosovo Force drawing down to 10,000 troops
DOL sues owners of bankrupt Aurora, Ill., trucking company to recover $3 million in unpaid employee medical claims [01/12/2010]
The U.S. Department of Labor has sued the owners of bankrupt Mid-States Express Inc. of Aurora, Ill., for allegedly failing to protect the interests of the participants and beneficiaries in the company's 401(k) and health plans. The department's lawsuit alleges that Bruce Hartmann failed to disclose to employees that their medical bills were not likely to be paid, even as the company continued to take deductions from their paychecks for medical coverage.
DOL announces $150 million in $BA1(Bathways Out of Poverty’ training grants for green jobs [01/13/2010]
Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today announced $150 million in green jobs training grants, as authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act). The $BE1(Bathways Out of Poverty” grants — as the group of funding awards is known — will support programs that help disadvantaged populations find ways out of poverty and into economic self-sufficiency through employment in energy efficiency and renewable energy industries.
US Department of Labor issues final safe harbor rule on employee contributions to small pension and welfare plans [01/13/2010]
The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the publication of a final rule to protect employee contributions deposited to small pension and welfare benefit plans with fewer than 100 participants by providing a safe harbor period of seven business days following receipt or withholding by employers.
U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services: November 2009
The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, through the Department of Commerce, announced today that total November exports of $138.2 billion and imports of $174.6 billion resulted in a goods and services deficit of $36.4 billion, up from $33.2 billion in October, revised. November exports were $1.2 billion more than October exports of $137.0 billion. November imports were $4.4 billion more than October imports of $170.2 billion
SEC Names New Specialized Unit Chiefs and Head of New Office of Market Intelligence
The Enforcement Division of the Securities and Exchange Commission today announced the appointment of the newest members of its national leadership team as the Division undertakes its most significant reorganization since its establishment in 1972.
SEC Announces Initiative to Encourage Individuals and Companies to Cooperate and Assist in Investigations
The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced a series of measures to further strengthen its enforcement program and encourage greater cooperation by individuals and companies in the agency's investigations and enforcement actions.
SEC Proposes New Rule to Effectively Prohibit Unfiltered Access and Maintain Market Access Controls
The Securities and Exchange Commission today voted unanimously to propose a new rule that would effectively prohibit broker-dealers from providing customers with "unfiltered" or "naked" access to an exchange or alternative trading system (ATS).
SEC Issues Concept Release Seeking Comment on Structure of Equity Markets
The Securities and Exchange Commission today moved forward with a broad review of the equity market structure, voting unanimously to issue a concept release seeking public comment on such issues as high frequency trading, co-locating trading terminals, and markets that do not publicly display price quotations.
Obama bank fee could exceed $100 billion to recoup TARP costs for the public
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A fee being considered for banks could raise more than $100 billion if the Obama administration seeks to recoup the current estimate of financial bailout costs, but exact figures are preliminary.
Karzai says U.S. never gave Afghans "blank check"
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Afghan President Hamid Karzai denied on Tuesday the United States had ever given his country a "blank check" but said he was grateful for the "little money" sent by Washington to Afghanistan.
Obama to announce TARP fee on banks on Thursday
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama will announce plans on Thursday to raise up to $120 billion from major U.S. financial firms to cover expected losses from a taxpayer-funded bank bailout, a senior administration official said on Tuesday.
Democrats see progress in White House healthcare talks
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - With President Barack Obama urging them on, congressional Democratic leaders met for eight hours at the White House on Wednesday and reported significant progress on finding a final healthcare compromise.
Monthly Budget Review
Based on the Monthly Treasury Statement for November and the Daily Treasury Statements for December
Gates meets defense industry heads
by Jen DiMascio
Secretary of Defense stresses the need for a closer partnership while hosting company execs.
Economic calendar governs new year
by Jeanne Cummings
Democrats press forward on job-creating legislation.
DOJ nominee appears to have 60 votes
by Manu Raju
Dawn Johnsen appears to have enough support after Specter announced he would support her nomination.
House Dems mount health assault
by Kasie Hunt ,Patrick O'Connor
A wave of rank-and-file House Democrats assail the Senate's tax on high-end health care plans.
Congress pushes aid for Haiti
by Martin Kady II
U.S. sending workers, food, water and supplies.
Obama pushes for a deal on health bill
by Carrie Budoff Brown,Patrick O'Connor
Obama and top Dems say they're making "significant progress” towards reconciling the health bills.
Challenges in Research Collaboration in Underserved Populations
Friday, February 5, 2010. Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas. This conference will focus on the challenges and opportunities involved in working with underserved populations. It will bring together local, regional and national researchers and community members to exchange and disseminate information.
Statement of Comptroller Dugan on the FDIC's ANPR on Executive Compensation
by Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
Comptroller of the Currency John C. Dugan discussed an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Executive Compensation at a meeting of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation$BCT(B Board of Directors today
NTIS Technical Reports Newsletter
A monthly free publication that highlights NTIS categories and features a selection of recently indexed titles.
Public meeting of the Online Safety and Technology Working Group (OSTWG)
NTIA has announced a public meeting of the Online Safety and Technology Working Group (OSTWG). The meeting will be held on February 4, 2010, at the U. S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC. The OSTWG will hear presentations and have discussions on online safety and technology, with an emphasis on issues relevant to the work of the subcommittees on data retention and child pornography reporting. (PDF 48 KB)
NTIA Awards Grants for Broadband Mapping and Planning in 10 States
NTIA awarded grants to fund broadband mapping and planning activities in Connecticut, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Texas under NTIA$BCT(B State Broadband Data and Development Grant Program. The program, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will increase broadband access and adoption through better data collection and broadband planning.
Austria: Treaties on Exchange of Tax Information
Taxation - On December 18, 2009, the Federal Council (Bundesrat), the chamber representing the states in the Austrian legislature, approved the resolutions of the National Council (Nationalrat, representative chamber of the Austrian legislature) that ratified agreement-amending protocols or... The Global Legal Monitor from the Law Library of Congress covers legal news and developments worldwide.
China: New Procurement Rules for Innovative Products
Government finance - On October 30, 2009, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), the Ministry of Finance (MOF), and the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of the People's Republic of China (PRC) issued a joint circular, with... The Global Legal Monitor from the Law Library of Congress covers legal news and developments worldwide.
Indonesia: Cyber Crime Bill
Communications and electronic information - It was reported on December 25, 2010, that a new bill on cyber crimes, the "Tipiti bill," has high priority on the Indonesian House of Representative's 2010 National Legislation Program. In the view of the country's... The Global Legal Monitor from the Law Library of Congress covers legal news and developments worldwide.
Nigeria: National Assembly to Consider Anti-Terrorism Bill
Terrorism - Reportedly motivated by the United States' measure that put Nigeria on the terrorist watch list, the Nigerian National Assembly is gearing up to conduct a second reading of an anti-terrorism bill, "An Act to Provide for... The Global Legal Monitor from the Law Library of Congress covers legal news and developments worldwide.
CONVERSATION-ISRAEL-PERES
Dmitry Medvedev had a telephone conversation with President of Israel Shimon Peres.
GAO-10-101R, Social Security: Options to Protect Benefits for Vulnerable Groups When Addressing Program Solvency, December 7, 2009
GAO-10-146R, Loan Performance and Negative Home Equity in the Nonprime Mortgage Market, December 16, 2009
Federal Reserve Bank income and expense data and transfers to the Treasury for 2009
Federal Reserve announces results of auction of $75 billion in 28-day credit held on January 11, 2010
Minutes of Federal Reserve Board discount rate meetings, November 23 through December 14, 2009
Federal Reserve approves final rules to protect credit card users from a number of costly practices
FTC Assesses Impact of 6 Years of Pay-for-Delay Drug Settlements
Press conference to announce an FTC staff analysis showing that pay-for-delay deals between brand and generic drug companies are costing American consumers billions a year, and to encourage inclusion of the House-passed pay-for-delay provision in the final version of the health care reform bill.
FTC Chairman, Members of Congress Call for Legislation to End Sweetheart "Pay-for-Delay" Deals That Keep Generic Drugs Off the Market
Agreements Cost Consumers Billion of Dollars Each Year, Delay Market Entry of Generic Medicines by an Average of 17 Months
NEW GOV JOB VACANCIES, GRANTS & NEW GOV CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES are posted at www.usdemocrats.com/ticker/jobs/
DARPA Advances to Second Phase of Cyber Security Testing Initiative
H.R. 511, An act to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to terminate certain easements held by the Secretary on land owned by the village of Caseville, Illinois, and to terminate associated contractual arrangements with the village
Cost estimate for the bill as reported by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry on December 16, 2009
H.R. 689, Shasta-Trinity National Forest Administrative Jurisdiction Transfer Act
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on December 16, 2009
H.R. 725, Indian Arts and Crafts Amendments Act of 2009
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the House Committee on Natural Resources on December 16, 2009
S. 1053, A bill to amend the National Law Enforcement Museum Act to extend the termination date
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on December 16, 2009
S. 1369, Molalla River Wild and Scenic Rivers Act
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on December 16, 2009
S. 1562, Arctic Ocean Research and Science Policy Review Act of 2009
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on December 17, 2009
S. 1660, Formaldehyde Standards for Composite Wood Products Act
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works on December 10, 2009
S. 2852, Renewable Energy Environmental Research Act of 2009
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on December 17, 2009
S. 2872, A bill to authorize appropriations for the National Historical Publications and Records Commission through fiscal year 2014, and for other purposes
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs on December 16, 2009
S. 782, National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring Program Act
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on December 16, 2009
H.R. 1945, Tule River Tribe Water Development Act
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on December 16, 2009
H.R. 3276, American Medical Isotopes Production Act of 2009
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on December 16, 2009
H.R. 3538, Idaho Wilderness Water Facilities Act
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the House Committee on Natural Resources on December 16, 2009
H.R. 4284, An act to extend the Generalized System of Preferences and the Andean Trade Preference Act, and for other purposes
Direct spending and revenues effects estimate for the bill as cleared by the Congress on December 22, 2009, and signed by the President on December 28, 2009
S. 522, Salmon Lake Land Selection Resolution Act
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on December 16, 2009

VIDEO: UK Prime Minister's Questions
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown began this week's Question Time by pledging UK humanitarian aid to Haiti following the earthquake. Then, Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg asked why the PM has not yet appeared before the Iraq War Inquiry. Other topics included the banning of the Islamic group "Islam4UK," government response to winter storms and the recession.
Length: 35 min.

Published: Today at 7am (ET)


VIDEO: White House Changes Stimulus Job Counting Estimates
The White House has recently changed its method of counting the total jobs saved or created by stimulus funds. White House Budget Director Peter Orszag issued a memo to federal agencies last month on how to report job estimates.
Length:

Published: Tuesday at 3pm (ET)


VIDEO: Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL)
Representative Jan Schakowsky talked about Congressional efforts to meld House and Senate health care bills into one.
Length: 29 min.

Published: Today at 7:32am (ET)


VIDEO: Defense Department Briefing on Iraq
Army Major General Anthony Cucolo, Commander of U.S. Forces Division - North briefed reporters via satellite from Iraq to provide an update on security operations in Iraq.
Length: 35 min.

Published: Today at 10am (ET)


VIDEO: House Armed Services Cmte. Hearing on China and Recent Security Developments
Recently, China denounced a decision by the U.S. to allow the sale of Patriot missiles by Lockheed Martin to Taiwan. Officials from the Pentagon and State Department testied before the House Armed Services Cmte. about China$BCT(B relationship with its Asian neighbors and the United States.
Length: 2 hr.

Published: Today at 10am (ET)


VIDEO: Pres. Obama Remarks on Humanitarian Relief to Haiti
President Obama promised swift action to deliver humanitarian relief to Haiti, the site of a large earthquake. Measuring 7.0 on the richter scale, it was the largest earthquake ever recorded in the region.
Length: 5 min.

Published: Today at 10:15am (ET)


VIDEO: State Dept Briefing on Earthquake Response Efforts in Haiti
State Department Counselor Cheryl Mills, USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah, and Commander, US SOUTHCOM General Douglas Fraser spoke to reporters at the State Department to brief reporters on earthquake response efforts in Haiti.
Length: 29 min.

Published: Today at 11:45am (ET)


VIDEO: Defense Dept. Briefing on Earthquake Relief Efforts in Haiti
Air Force Geneneral Douglas Fraser, Commander, U.S. Southern Command briefed reporters at the Pentagon on earthquake relief efforts in Haiti.
Length: 25 min.

Published: Today at 12:30pm (ET)


VIDEO: Illinois State of the State Address
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn (D) delivered the State of the State Address from the State Capitol in Springfield.
Length: 1 hr. 16 min.

Published: Today at 1pm (ET)


VIDEO: Federal Housing Administration Mortgage Lender Investigation
The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced an investigation into Federal Housing Administration-approved lenders with high foreclosure rates. The FHA insures nearly 30 percent of all mortgages in the U.S.
Length: 17 min.

Published: Tuesday at 1:30pm (ET)


VIDEO: State Department Briefing
State Department spokesman Philip Crowley this said U.S. military planes are on the ground in the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince, ready to transport about 100 Americans out of the country. He updated reporters on the latest earthquake response efforts in Haiti.
Length: 23 min.

Published: Today at 4:30pm (ET)


VIDEO: West Virginia State of the State Address
West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin (D) delivered the State of the State Address from the State House in Charleston.
Length:

Published: Today at 7pm (ET)


VIDEO: Appeals Court Argument Heard In Fox Profanity Case vs FCC
A re-argument was heard today by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in New York, in the case of Fox Television vs. Federal Communications Commission.
Length:

Published: Today at 6pm (ET)


Obama promises all-out relief effort in Haiti
by By MATTHEW LEE and JULIE PACE
WASHINGTON (AP) -- U.S. officials are laying out a massive military response to the Haiti earthquake, saying that ships, helicopters, transport planes and a 2,000-member Marine unit are either on the way or likely to begin moving soon....
Big Insurance Funds Chamber of Commerce to Kill Health Care Reform
by Mike Hall
Obama to speak about Haiti earthquake
Posted: January 13th, 2010 09:32 AM ET

CPresident Barack Obama is scheduled to speak about the earthquake in Haiti Wednesday at 10 a.m. ET.
Washington (CNN) - President Barack Obama is scheduled to speak about the earthquake in Haiti Wednesday at 10 a.m. ET, according to White House spokesman Tommy Vietor.

Democrats grab back seat in Virginia
Posted: January 13th, 2010 09:37 AM ET

From CNN Deputy Political Director Paul Steinhauser

Washington (CNN) – Democrats are celebrating an election victory in northern Virginia.


Obama orders 'swift' response to Haiti earthquake
Posted: January 13th, 2010 11:10 AM ET
Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission hears from bank CEOs
Posted: January 13th, 2010 01:30 PM ET
Obama works on health care compromise with Hill Democrats
Posted: January 13th, 2010 03:44 PM ET

Obama works on health care compromise with Hill Democrats.
Washington (CNN) – President Barack Obama huddled with top Capitol Hill Democrats at the White House on Wednesday as congressional leaders sought to find enough middle ground to pass a sweeping health care reform bill.

Democrats hold intense day-long negotiations on health care bills
Posted: January 13th, 2010 08:09 PM ET

From CNN's Dana Bash, Deirdre Walsh and Ted Barrett


President Barack Obama has made clear he favors the Senate Democrats' approach - taxing high cost insurance plans - to help pay for health care reform.
Washington(CNN) - What was expected to be a morning meeting with the president on health care turned into all-day, intense negotiations with Democratic leaders trying to find compromise on differences over House and Senate health care bills.


Coakley endorsed by The Boston Globe
Posted: January 13th, 2010 08:10 PM ET

From CNN Associate Producer Martina Stewart
Democrat Martha Coakley was endorsed for U.S. Senate by The Boston Globe Wednesday.
(CNN) - The Boston Globe endorsed Martha Coakley for Senate Wednesday, saying the Democrat is more qualified to serve in Washington than her Republican opponent Scott Brown.


FDA Warning Letters for U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
DOD Quake Response
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:09:35 -0600
President Barack Obama is calling for an aggressive and coordinated U.S. response to help those affected by Tuesday's massive earthquake in Haiti.
FDA has issued draft guidance on "IRB Continuing Review after Clinical Investigation Approval." The guidance document is now available from FDA's website using the following web link: http://www.fda.gov/downloads/RegulatoryInformation/Guidances/UCM197347.pdf.
This draft guidance is intended to assist institutional review boards (IRBs) in carrying out their continuing review responsibility under 21 CFR 56.108(a) and 56.109(f) by providing recommendations regarding the criteria, process, and frequency of continuing review to assure the protection of the rights and welfare of subjects in clinical investigations. The draft guidance should also help clinical investigators and sponsors better understand their responsibilities related to continuing review. When finalized, this document will supersede the Information Sheet, Continuing Review After Study Approval (September 1998, Office of Health Affairs, Food and Drug Administration).
Op-Ed on FBI's Post-9/11 Counterterrorism Efforts
Improving the Grant Management Process for Department of Justice Tribal Grant Programs
Private Offers of Assistance for Haiti Relief Efforts
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 07:00:00 -0600
China: Recent Security Developments
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 -0600
Marines Build Observation Posts Along Infamous Road
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 09:09:00 -0600
Bipartisan Panel to Question Wall Street CEOs
Posted: 12 Jan 2010 04:00 PM PST
By DANIEL WAGNER and JIM KUHNHENN
White House Credits Stimulus with up to 2 Million Jobs
Posted: 12 Jan 2010 04:00 PM PST
By MARK S. SMITH
WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama is trumpeting a new White House estimate that his top economist calls "stunning": His stimulus plan has already created or saved up to 2 million jobs.
Sec. Clinton's Diplomacy Emphasizes Women's Rights
Posted: 12 Jan 2010 04:00 PM PST
By ROBERT BURNS
HONOLULU - Rarely does Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton venture abroad without pushing the case for "women empowerment," a signature issue of her nearly one-year tenure as the top U.S. diplomat.
THE DAILY WHIPLINE | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2010
Haiti Earthquake
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:04:56 -0600
Coast Guard and USAID are heading to Haiti to help with disaster relief operations.
Haiti Quake Response
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:04:46 -0600
The Defense Department is beginning preparations for humanitarian assistance to Haiti after the island nation was struck with a massive earthquake January 12.
DoD Quake Response
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:05:00 -0600
President Barack Obama is calling for an aggressive and coordinated U.S. response to help those affected by the massive earthquake in Haiti.
Tour of U.S. Passport Agency and Meet and Greet with Employees
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 09:05:05 -0600
Freight TSI Press Release
FEC Withdrawal Letter for AOR 2009-27, http://saos.nictusa.com/aodocs/1092881.pdf
DOD Announces Recruiting and Retention Numbers for December 2009
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:33:00 -0600
DOD Announces New Defense Business Board Membership
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:38:00 -0600
Federal Employee Pleads Guilty to Stealing $100,000 in Government Funds
U.S. Department of State Daily Press Briefing - January 13, 2010
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 18:35:50 -0600
Secretary Chu Announces Nearly $80 Million Investment for Advanced Biofuels Research and Fueling Infrastructure

Investment builds upon the Department's ongoing effort to spur the creation of the domestic bio-industry and create new jobs

Washington, DC – U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced the investment of nearly $80 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for advanced biofuels research and fueling infrastructure that will help support the development of a clean sustainable transportation sector. The selections announced today – two biofuels consortia for up to $78 million to research algae-based - are part of the Department$BCT(B continued effort to spur the creation of the domestic bio-industry while creating jobs.

"Advanced biofuels are crucial to building a clean energy economy,” said Secretary Chu. "By harnessing the power of science and technology, we can bring new biofuels to the market and develop a cleaner and more sustainable transportation sector. This investment will help spur the creation of the domestic bio-industry, while creating jobs and reducing our dependence on foreign oil.”

Biofuels Consortia
Two cross-functional groups will seek to break down critical barriers to the commercialization of algae-based and other advanced biofuels such as green aviation fuels, diesel, and gasoline that can be transported and sold using today's existing fueling infrastructure. The selected projects consist of leading scientists and engineers from universities, private industry, and government, and will facilitate sharing expertise and technologies.

The two consortia selected for funding are:

National Alliance for Advanced Biofuels and Bioproducts (NAABB) ($44 million) - Led by the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center (St. Louis, MO), NAABB will develop a systems approach for sustainable commercialization of algal biofuel (such as renewable gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel) and bioproducts. NAABB will integrate resources from companies, universities, and national laboratories to overcome the critical barriers of cost, resource use and efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, and commercial viability. It will develop and demonstrate the science and technology necessary to significantly increase production of algal biomass and lipids, efficiently harvest and extract algae and algal products, and establish valuable certified co-products that scale with renewable fuel production. Co-products include animal feed, industrial feedstocks, and additional energy generation. Multiple test sites will cover diverse environmental regions to facilitate broad deployment.

National Advanced Biofuels Consortium (NABC) (up to $33.8 million) - led by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, NABC will conduct cutting-edge research to develop infrastructure compatible, biomass-based hydrocarbon fuels. The result will be a sustainable, cost-effective production process that maximizes the use of existing refining and distribution infrastructure. NABC will investigate a variety of process strategies and down select to those closest to larger scale demonstration. The NABC plans to further develop these strategies to deliver a pilot-ready process, with full lifecycle analysis to measure the environmental benefits.

Collectively, these consortia will be matched by private and non-federal cost-share funds of more than $19 million for total project investments of over $97 million.

Secretary Chu also announced today the selection of eight infrastructure projects to receive up to $1.6 million to support expanded fueling infrastructure for ethanol blends. The projects announced today will expand ethanol blends infrastructure at existing retail fueling locations in nine states: Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Missouri, Texas, Virginia, and Washington. The projects plan to install E85 pumps, retrofit existing pumps to dispense E85, and install blender pumps that offer ethanol blends up to 85 percent at over 60 stations. Collectively, the projects propose creating at least 45 E85 dispensers and 16 blender pumps along key driving corridors and areas with higher concentrations of flexible fuel vehicles.

The infrastructure projects will be matched with $3.9 million in non-federal cost-share funds, for total projects investments of $5.5 million.

For a complete list and project descriptions of awards announced today please visit LINK

-DOE-
Former Jersey City Housing Department Employee Indicted for Allegedly Accepting $50,000 in Corrupt Payments
Background Notes : Netherlands (01/10)
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 09:12:19 -0600

Contact: Katie Grant
Stephanie Lundberg
202-225-3130For Immediate Release
January 13, 2010

Hoyer Statement on Earthquake in Haiti

WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement on yesterday's earthquake in Haiti:

"America's thoughts are with the people of Haiti as they struggle to recover from yesterday's devastating earthquake. The loss of life and destruction of property are severe, and the work of caring for the injured, sheltering the displaced, and rebuilding will no doubt be painful and long. But as President Obama and Secretary Clinton have made clear, our country is ready to commit humanitarian aid, and civilian and military disaster relief, to the recovery effort. Working with the international community and with non-governmental organizations, the United States will stand by the Haitian people in their time of need.”

###


Suicide Prevention
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:23:52 -0600
The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff speaks at this week's suicide prevention conference in Washington, DC.

Obama Administration Proposes Major Public Transportation Policy Shift
to Highlight Livability

Changes Include Economic Development and Environmental Benefits

In a dramatic change from existing policy, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today proposed that new funding guidelines for major transit projects be based on livability issues such as economic development opportunities and environmental benefits, in addition to cost and time saved, which are currently the primary criteria.

In remarks at the Transportation Research Board annual meeting, the Secretary announced the Obama Administration's plans to change how projects are selected to receive federal financial assistance in the Federal Transit Administration$BCT(B (FTA) New Starts and Small Starts programs. As part of this initiative, the FTA will immediately rescind budget restrictions issued by the Bush Administration in March of 2005 that focused primarily on how much a project shortened commute times in comparison to its cost.

"Our new policy for selecting major transit projects will work to promote livability rather than hinder it,” said Secretary LaHood. " We want to base our decisions on how much transit helps the environment, how much it improves development opportunities and how it makes our communities better places to live.”
The change will apply to how the Federal Transit Administration evaluates major transit projects going forward. In making funding decisions, the FTA will now evaluate the environmental, community and economic development benefits provided by transit projects, as well as the congestion relief benefits from such projects.

"This new approach will help us do a much better job of aligning our priorities and values with our transit investments” said FTA Administrator Peter Rogoff. "No longer will we ignore the many benefits that accrue to our environment and our communities when we build or expand rail and bus rapid transit systems.”
FTA will soon initiate a separate rulemaking process, inviting public comment on ways to appropriately measure all the benefits that result from such investments.


Remarks to the Press on the Earthquake in Haiti
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 11:04:31 -0600
DOD News Briefing with Maj. Gen. Cucolo From Iraq
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:03:00 -0600
CDC's Vaccine Price List. This message is to notify you that the Vaccine Price List has been updated, and is now available.
Northern Iraq Remains Complex, General Says
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:22:00 -0600
Iraq Briefing
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:12:03 -0600
MG Anthony Cucolo, Commander, U.S. Forces Division - North, speaks with reporters at the Pentagon providing an update on operational issues.
Statement by DHS Deputy Press Secretary Matt Chandler
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 06:00:00 -0600
Secretary Napolitano and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Assistant Secretary Morton halted all removals to Haiti for the time being in response to the devastation caused by yesterday$BCT(B earthquake. ICE continues to closely monitor the situation.
Administration Completes Implementation of HFA Initiative
January 13, 2010
2010-1-13-14-29-48-6865
Mullen Voices Concern with Military Suicide Rate
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:45:00 -0600
Stavridis Expects 'Significant Progress' in Afghanistan
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:52:00 -0600
Middle East Digest - January 12, 2010
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:47:33 -0600
National Guard Stands Ready to Help in Haiti
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 14:03:00 -0600
SOUTHCOM Deploys Assessment Team to Haiti
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 18:00:00 -0600
STS-129 Crew Meets With Members of Congress
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 23:00:00 -0600

Contact: Katie Grant
202-225-3130For Immediate Release
January 13, 2010

Hoyer: CEA Report Shows Positive Impact of Recovery Act

WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement after the Council of Economic Advisors released a report to Congress on the economic impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act:

"As the Second Session of the 111th Congress begins, Democrats’ top priority is continuing the work we began last year to create jobs and strengthen our economy. The CEA report issued today is further evidence that the Recovery Act has played a role in stopping the economic downturn and starting to reverse the slide. Just one year ago, we lost an average of 673,000 jobs per month during the last three months of the Bush Administration, and GDP was -6.4. Now, however, the CEA estimates that up to 2 million jobs have been created or saved and 1.5 to 3 percentage points have been added to our GDP growth as a result of passing the Recovery Act. With only half of funds committed at this point, these numbers only represent a partial picture of the Recovery Act$BCT(B full effect.

"While this is positive news, the fact remains that there is more work to be done. Job growth is not where it should be, and families across the country are struggling to make ends meet. This year, Democrats remain focused on creating jobs so that we get Americans back to work. We will continue to work with the Obama Administration and the Senate as we take action to encourage continued economic growth.”

###


District of Columbia Healthy Families Insurance (SCHIP) for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Alabama ALL Kids - Children's Health Insurance Program for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
American Council of Young Political Leaders for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Crisis Counseling for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Haitian Earthquake Relief Fraud Alert
Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:10:00 -0600
Disaster Legal Services for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
EMI Independent Study Program for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
DOT Secretary's Blog - Welcome to the Fast Lane for Department of Transportation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Haiti Relief
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:50:56 -0600
The President says the U.S. is planning to send relief to Haiti after that nation's devastating earthquake.
EMI Residential Education Program for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
EMI Training Assistance for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
MEU to Haiti
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:51:20 -0600
U.S. Southern Command announces the deployment of a Marine expeditionary unit to Haiti.
First Responder Counter - Terrorism Training Assistance for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Detroit Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Individuals and Households Program- Other Needs Assistance for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Individual and Household Disaster Housing Assistance for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
National Fire Academy Educational Program for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
National Fire Academy Training Assistance for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Background Notes : Ireland (01/10)
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 11:01:01 -0600
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
VA - Grant - Automobiles and Adaptive Equipment for Disabled Veterans and Servicemembers for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
VA - Home Loans - Cash Out Refinance (Regular Refinance) for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
VA - Health Care - Readjustment Counseling (Vet Centers) for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Federal Retiree Benefits for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Armed Forces Tax Benefits for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Tax Benefits for Adoption for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Terrorist Attack - Disaster Relief Information for Individuals for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

Good Afternoon,

The reports and images from Haiti of collapsed hospitals, crumbled homes, and men and women carrying their injured neighbors through the streets are truly heart-wrenching. As we learn more about the extent of the devastation, our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Haiti and Haitian Americans around our country who do not yet know the fate of their families and loved ones back home.

I have directed my Administration to respond with a swift, coordinated and aggressive effort to save lives. The people of Haiti will have the full support of the United States Government in the urgent effort to rescue those trapped beneath the rubble and to deliver the humanitarian relief -- the food, water and medicine -- that Haitians will need in the coming days.

This is also a time when we are reminded of the common humanity that we all share, and Americans have always responded to these situations with generosity of spirit. If you would like to support the urgent humanitarian effort in Haiti, I encourage you to visit our website where you can learn more about how to contribute:
http://www.WhiteHouse.gov/HaitiEarthquake

Americans trying to locate family members in Haiti are encouraged to contact the State Department at (888) 407-4747.

We will continue to stand with the people of Haiti and keep them in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Barack Obama


(IRS) Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief Program for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Remarks on The Situation in Haiti
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:52:01 -0600
Casualties, Disasters, and Theft for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Child and Dependent Care Credit for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Child Tax Credit for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Filmmakers and Producers from Sixteen Nations and the Palestinian Territories Examine 'Film in the U.S.' through U.S. Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:45:37 -0600
Israeli Security Barrier (Taken Question)
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:56:52 -0600
Business.gov's Small Biz Briefing, Winter 2010
Medical Dental Expenses Tax Credit for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Farmer's Tax Guide for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

US-CERT Current Activity

IRS Warns of Online Scams

Original release date: January 13, 2010 at 3:39 pm
Last revised: January 13, 2010 at 3:39 pm

US-CERT is aware of reports of tax season phishing scams. The U.S.
Internal Revenue Service has issued a news release on its website
warning consumers about potential scams. These scams are circulating
via fraudulent email or other online messages appearing to come from
the IRS. They attempt to convince consumers to reveal personal and
financial information that can be used to gain access to bank
accounts, credit cards, and other financial institutions.

US-CERT encourages users to do the following to mitigate the risks:
* Review the How to Report and Identify Phishing, E-mail Scams and
Bogus IRS Web Sites document on the IRS website.
* Do not follow unsolicited web links received in email messages.
* Refer to the Recognizing and Avoiding Email Scams (pdf) document
for more information on social engineering attacks.
* Refer to the Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks
(pdf) document for more information on social engineering attacks.

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

<http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=217794,00.html>

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

<http://www.irs.gov/privacy/article/0,,id=179820,00.html?portlet=5>

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


Military Preps for Broader Haiti Relief Mission
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 14:45:00 -0600
HHS Accelerates Head Start Quality Improvements and Submits Impact Study on 2002-2003 Head Start Programs
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 23:01:00 -0600
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced plans to strengthen the Head Start and Early Head Start programs as part of an Administration-wide effort to close achievement gaps and promote early learning through the first eight years of life for the nation$BCT(B most vulnerable children.
Innocent Spouse Relief for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Low Income Taxpayer Clinic for GovBenefits.gov. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Press Availability on the Situation in Haiti
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 18:21:02 -0600
New Orleans Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
DOD News Briefing with Gen. Fraser from the Pentagon
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:10:00 -0600
Washington Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Dallas Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

Fundraiser for Rep. Chris Tuck & Sen. Dennis Egan
What: Fundraiser
Start Time: Saturday, January 16 at 3:00pm
End Time: Saturday, January 16 at 5:00pm
Where: Juneau IBEW Hall, 813 W 12th Ave

To see more details and RSVP


FEC Draft Advisory Opinion 2009-29, http://saos.nictusa.com/aodocs/1093045.pdf
Africa, Partners Work for Maritime Security
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:28:00 -0600
New Orleans Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
DoD Contracts for January 13, 2010
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:06:00 -0600
Haitian Earthquake Relief Fraud Alert
December Recruiting Successes Wrap Up Banner 2009
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:54:00 -0600
DOD Identifies Marine Casualties
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:10:00 -0600
U.S. Seeks Positive Military Relationship with China
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:21:00 -0600

DARLENA BURNETT 4 CONGRESS AFTER WORK EVENT (PUNCH 41)
What: Fundraiser
Start Time: Thursday, January 21 at 5:30pm
End Time: Thursday, January 21 at 7:30pm
Where: 1431 W. LAKE STREET

To see more details and RSVP


C-SPAN Daily Alert
Programming Information for Weds. 1/13 - Thurs. 1/14, 2010
**********************************************************************

C-SPAN Highlights

Tonight:
* Banking Officials Testify at Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission Hearing (8pm)
* SEC Press Briefing on New Enforcement Measures (11:25pm)
* South Carolina AG Discusses Constitutionality of the Health Care Bill (12am)

Tomorrow:
* U.S. House: Not In Session
* Pres. Obama Press Conference at House Democrats' Jobs Summit (4:45pm)
**********************************************************************
C-SPAN2 Highlights

Tonight:
* 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals Oral Argument in Fox TV v. FCC Indecency Case (9pm)
* CATO Panel Discussion on Pres. Obama$BCT(B Counterterrorism Efforts (10pm
* Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) Interview on Health Care Bill Negotiations (12:55am)

Tomorrow:
* U.S. Senate: Not in Session
* Public Meeting of the Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission (9am) - LIVE
* Texas GOP Primary Debate for Governor (8pm)
**********************************************************************
C-SPAN3 Highlights

Tonight:
* Pres. Obama Press Statement on Haiti Earthquake Relief (7pm)
* State Department Press Briefing on Haiti Earthquake Relief (7:05pm)
* Comments by Phil Angelides, Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission Chair (7:35pm)

Tomorrow:
* Programming TBA. Check the Schedule for Updates - http://www.c-spanvideo.org/schedule?timezone=Eastern&date=Jan+13%2C+2010
**********************************************************************
C-SPAN Radio Highlights

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

Tomorrow:
* Washington Journal (7am) - LIVE

**********************************************************************
Politics Highlights

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

* Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls
* Fmr. Sen. Bob Graham (D-FL) on Financial Crisis Inquiry (7:45am)
* Discussion on Health Insurance Exchanges (8:30am)
* Discussion on IRS Tax Regulations (9:15am)


STATEMENT FROM HHS SECRETARY KATHLEEN SEBELIUS

Americans' thoughts and prayers are with the people suffering as a result of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. As part of an integrated U.S. government response, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services stands ready to support the medical and public health needs of the Haitian people.
Doctors, nurses, paramedics, emergency medical technicians and other medical personnel in our National Disaster Medical System and U.S. Public Health Service are preparing to travel to Haiti to provide immediate medical care to the injured. Public health experts from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are on hand to help Haitian officials assess the scope of the earthquake's damage to water and food supplies. Our on-the-ground medical teams will be traveling with medicine, medical supplies and equipment to help save lives during the critical post-earthquake timeframe.

###


HOUSE FLOOR WRAP-UP FOR JANUARY 13, 2010

Veto Sustained:

Override of the President's Veto of H.J.Res. 64 - Making Further Continuing Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2010 (Rep. Obey – Appropriations) (143 - 245, 1 Present)

Bills Adopted Under Suspension of the Rules (11):
H.Res. 981 - Supporting continued political and economic development in Ukraine (Rep. Berman - Foreign Affairs)
H.Res. 970 - Congratulating Flint native, University of Alabama sophomore, and running back Mark Ingram on winning the 2009 Heisman Trophy and honoring both his athletic and academic achievements (Rep. Kildee - Education and Labor)
H.Res. 862 - Congratulating the staff, students, and faculty at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy for winning the 2009 Star Innovator in the Intel Schools of Distinction competition (Rep. Foster - Education and Labor)
H.Res. 1001 - Congratulating North Central College on winning the 2009 NCAA Division III men's cross country championship (Rep. Biggert - Education and Labor)
H.Res. 1002 - Honoring the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and encouraging the continued commitment to Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a national day of service (Rep. Platts - Education and Labor)
H.Res. 860 - Supporting the initiatives of Chicago Wilderness and the Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (Rep. Quigley - Education and Labor)
H.R. 3892 - To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 101 West Highway 64 Bypass in Roper, North Carolina, as the "E.V. Wilkins Post Office" (Rep. Butterfield - Oversight and Government Reform)
H.R. 4139 - To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 7464 Highway 503 in Hickory, Mississippi, as the "Sergeant Matthew L. Ingram Post Office" (Rep. Harper - Oversight and Government Reform)
S. 692 - To provide that claims of the United States to certain documents relating to Franklin Delano Roosevelt shall be treated as waived and relinquished in certain circumstances. (Sen. Schumer - Oversight and Government Reform)
H.R. 2646 - Government Accountability Office Improvement Act of 2009 (Rep. Towns - Oversight and Government Reform)
H.R. 3237 - To enact certain laws relating to national and commercial space programs as title 51, United States Code, "National and Commercial Space Programs (Rep. Conyers - Judiciary)


National Cyber Alert System

Cyber Security Alert SA10-013A

Adobe Reader and Acrobat Vulnerabilities

Original release date:
Last revised: --
Source: US-CERT

Systems Affected

* Adobe Reader and Acrobat 9.2 and earlier 9.x versions
* Adobe Reader and Acrobat 8.1.7 and earlier 8.x versions

Overview

Adobe has released Security bulletin APSB10-02, which describes
multiple vulnerabilities affecting Adobe Reader and Acrobat.

Solution

Update

Adobe has released updates to address this issue. You are
encouraged to read Adobe Security Bulletin APSB10-02 and update
vulnerable versions of Adobe Reader and Acrobat.

Disable JavaScript in Adobe Reader and Acrobat

Disabling JavaScript may prevent some exploits. Acrobat JavaScript
can be disabled using the Preferences menu (Edit -> Preferences ->
JavaScript; un-check Enable Acrobat JavaScript).

Prevent Internet Explorer from automatically opening PDF documents

The installer for Adobe Reader and Acrobat configures Internet
Explorer to automatically open PDF files without your interaction.
However, you can set up a safer option that prompts you by
importing the following as a .REG file:

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AcroExch.Document.7]
"EditFlags"=hex:00,00,00,00

Disable the display of PDF documents in your web browser

Preventing PDF documents from opening inside your web browser will
partially mitigate this vulnerability. By applying this workaround,
you may also lessen the possibility of future vulnerabilities.

To prevent PDF documents from automatically being opened in a web
browser, do the following:

1. Open Adobe Acrobat Reader.
2. Open the Edit menu.
3. Choose the preferences option.
4. Choose the Internet section.
5. Un-check the "Display PDF in browser" check box.

Do not access PDF documents from untrusted sources

Do not open unfamiliar or unexpected PDF documents, particularly
those hosted on websites or delivered as email attachments. Please
see Cyber Security Tip ST04-010.

Description

Adobe Security Advisory APSB10-02 describes a number of
vulnerabilities affecting Adobe Reader and Acrobat. An attacker
could exploit these vulnerabilities by convincing a user to open a
specially crafted PDF file.

These vulnerabilities could allow a remote attacker to take control
of your computer or cause it to crash.

References

* Adobe Security Bulletin APSB10-02 -
<http://www.adobe.com/support/security/bulletins/apsb10-02.html>

* Vulnerability Note VU#508357 -
<https://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/508357>

* Vulnerability Note VU#773545 -
<https://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/773545>


Humanitarian Relief Brief
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:56:07 -0600
US SOUTHCOM Gen Douglas Fraser, State Department Counselor Cheryl Mills and USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah speak with reporters in Washington, DC about the Haiti earthquake.
Highlights: Situation in Haiti
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 07:00:00 -0600

National Cyber Alert System

Technical Cyber Security Alert TA10-013A

Adobe Reader and Acrobat Vulnerabilities

Original release date:
Last revised: --
Source: US-CERT

Systems Affected

* Adobe Reader and Acrobat 9.2 and earlier 9.x versions
* Adobe Reader and Acrobat 8.1.7 and earlier 8.x versions

Overview

Adobe has released Security bulletin APSB10-02, which describes
multiple vulnerabilities affecting Adobe Reader and Acrobat.

I. Description

Adobe Security Advisory APSB10-02 describes a number of
vulnerabilities affecting Adobe Reader and Acrobat. These
vulnerabilities affect Reader 9.2 and earlier 9.x versions and
8.1.7 and earlier 8.x versions. Further details are available in
the US-CERT Vulnerability Notes Database.

An attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities by convincing a
user to open a specially crafted PDF file. The Adobe Reader browser
plug-in is available for multiple web browsers and operating
systems, which can automatically open PDF documents hosted on a
website.

Some of these vulnerabilities are being actively exploited.

II. Impact

These vulnerabilities could allow a remote attacker to execute
arbitrary code, write arbitrary files or folders to the file
system, escalate local privileges, or cause a denial of service on
an affected system as the result of a user opening a malicious PDF
document.

III. Solution

Update

Adobe has released updates to address this issue. Users are
encouraged to read Adobe Security Bulletin APSB10-02 and update
vulnerable versions of Adobe Reader and Acrobat.

Disable JavaScript in Adobe Reader and Acrobat

Disabling JavaScript may prevent some exploits from resulting in
code execution. Acrobat JavaScript can be disabled using the
Preferences menu (Edit -> Preferences -> JavaScript; un-check
Enable Acrobat JavaScript).

Prevent Internet Explorer from automatically opening PDF documents

The installer for Adobe Reader and Acrobat configures Internet
Explorer to automatically open PDF files without any user
interaction. This behavior can be reverted to a safer option that
prompts the user by importing the following as a .REG file:

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AcroExch.Document.7]
"EditFlags"=hex:00,00,00,00

Disable the display of PDF documents in the web browser

Preventing PDF documents from opening inside a web browser will
partially mitigate this vulnerability. If this workaround is
applied it may also mitigate future vulnerabilities.

To prevent PDF documents from automatically being opened in a web
browser, do the following:

1. Open Adobe Acrobat Reader.
2. Open the Edit menu.
3. Choose the preferences option.
4. Choose the Internet section.
5. Un-check the "Display PDF in browser" check box.

Do not access PDF documents from untrusted sources

Do not open unfamiliar or unexpected PDF documents, particularly
those hosted on websites or delivered as email attachments. Please
see Cyber Security Tip ST04-010.

IV. References

* Adobe Security Bulletin APSB10-02 -
<http://www.adobe.com/support/security/bulletins/apsb10-02.html>

* Vulnerability Note VU#508357 -
<https://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/508357>

* Vulnerability Note VU#773545 -
<https://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/773545>

____________________________________________________________________

The most recent version of this document can be found at:

<http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/techalerts/TA10-013A.html>


US-CERT Current Activity

Haitian Earthquake Disaster Email Scams and Search Engine Poisoning Campaigns

Original release date: January 13, 2010 at 7:33 pm
Last revised: January 13, 2010 at 7:33 pm

US-CERT would like to warn users of potential email scams and search
engine poisoning campaigns that may circulate regarding the Haitian
Earthquake disaster. The scam emails may contain links or attachments
which may direct users to phishing or malware-laden websites.
Fraudulent search engine results may return similar malicious web
links to phishing and malware websites.

US-CERT encourages users to take the following measures to protect
themselves:
* Do not follow unsolicited web links or attachments in email
messages.
* Maintain up-to-date antivirus software.
* Refer to the Recognizing and Avoiding Email Scams (pdf) document
for more information on avoiding email scams.
* Refer to the Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks
document for more information on social engineering attacks.

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

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

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


US agencies coordinating Haiti rescue efforts
by By MATTHEW LEE
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Teams from across the U.S. government, including the Defense, State and Homeland Security Departments, are coordinating efforts to assist victims of the powerful earthquake that struck Haiti Tuesday....
White House credits stimulus with up to 2M jobs
by By MARK S. SMITH
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama is trumpeting a new White House estimate that his top economist calls "stunning": His stimulus plan has already created or saved up to 2 million jobs...
Clinton diplomacy emphasizes women's rights
by By ROBERT BURNS
HONOLULU (AP) -- Rarely does Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton venture abroad without pushing the case for "women empowerment," a signature issue of her nearly one-year tenure as the top U.S. diplomat....
Democrats, unions struggle to reach health care consensus
Posted: January 12th, 2010 05:33 PM ET
Washington (CNN) - House Democrats anxious about health care negotiations prepared to meet Tuesday night as Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the White House conferred with labor leaders unhappy with a tax being considered for the final bill.

Obama issues statement about Haiti earthquake
Posted: January 12th, 2010 06:33 PM ET
Washington (CNN) - The White House issued the following statement from President Obama after a major earthquake struck Tuesday just off the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince :

"My thoughts and prayers go out to those who have been affected by this earthquake. We are closely monitoring the situation and we stand ready to assist the people of Haiti.”


Former President Clinton issues statement about Haiti
Posted: January 12th, 2010 07:30 PM ET
Washington (CNN) - Former President Bill Clinton, the U.N. Special Envoy to Haiti, issued the following statement Tuesday after a major earthquake struck southern Haiti:

"My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Haiti.

My U.N. office and the rest of the U.N. system are monitoring the situation, and we are committed to do whatever we can to assist the people of Haiti in their relief, rebuilding and recovery efforts."


Nationalized Race Benefits Coakley
First Read correctly notes it "probably doesn't help" Scott Brown (R) that his U.S. Senate race in Masssachusetts against Martha Coakley (D) has been nationalized.

January 13, 2010 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 23 pages - 160 KB)

Reform Immigration For America
What: Club/Group Meeting
Start Time: Tomorrow, January 13 at 5:00pm
End Time: Tomorrow, January 13 at 7:00pm
Where: Bobby's Downtown

To see more details and RSVP


CANADA newsbrief journal has been updated and posted

Arapahoe County Young Democrats January Events

Happy New Year!

Join us for our monthly Happy Hour to celebrate the beginning of the 2010 Legislative Session!

When: Wednesday January 13

Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm

(Monthly at 6pm on the second Wednesday)

Where: Cool River Cafe
8000 E Belleview, DTC

OTHER EVENTS

Please join CD 6 Candidate John Flerlage for a House Party

Mike Cantin is hosting a House Party for John Flerlage at his Denver home, and invites everyone to come and meet John at this central location. Bring a friend or two with you and and show your support for John and his campaign to win in CD 6!

When: Friday, January 15, 2010

Time: 7:00 – 9:00 pm

Where: Home of Mike Cantin

415 Franklin St
Denver, CO 80218

RSVP appreciated but not necessary RSVP@FlerlageforCongress.com

For more info, contact Daniel Horsey 303-503-1645

YOUNG DEMS! CALL AND SING! For Andrew!

Add your voice to the thousands of others supporting Andrew Romanoff for the U.S. Senate

Join us for Food, Friends, Phone Calls

******Karaoke Competition*******

(You know you love competitions!!!)

We will divide into teams and winning teams get to make other teams sing for Andrew on professional quality karaoke gear!

Who: All Young Dems Chapters are invited to this special event!

When: Saturday, January 16, 2010

Time: 11:00am- 8pm

Where: Romanoff for Colorado Headquarters
2223 S Monaco Parkway
Denver CO 80222

(Monaco and Evans next to Bruno's)

RSVP to YoungDems@andrewromanoff.com
Or call 303 586 6514

RSVP TODAY (RSVP appreciated but not required)

PLEASE NOTE: The Arapahoe County Young Dems do not endorse one Democratic Candidate over another. We will accept and advertise any event for any Democratic candidate.

We hope to see you soon!

The Arapahoe County Young Democrats
--------------------


Connecticut Young Democrats

MA Election NEXT WEEK for Sen. Ted Kennedy's seat. We Can Help!

Hello all,

Right now is a very exciting time in CT. Senator Chris Dodd's upcoming retirement has opened up a whole new world of possibilities in CT politics. But, at a time when things are heating up in CT for our upcoming nominations, we do need to take a minute to look outside our state to see that there are others who need our help RIGHT NOW!

ONE WEEK from YESTERDAY, on Tuesday, January 19, 2009 a vote will take place in Massachusetts to fill the seat recently vacated by the untimely death of Senator Ted Kennedy. The Democratic nominee, Attorney General Martha Coakley, has the full backing of the Kennedy family. This race is getting tighter by the day and will be a close finish.

Therefore, we are asking you to help preserve the Kennedy legacy by working to ensure that a Democrat retains this seat. Because the winner is sworn in immediately after the election, this race has enormous implications on many major issues right now, including health care reform --- a signature issue for our own Senator Chris Dodd and this seat's predecessor, Senator Ted Kennedy.

The Coakley campaign is looking for folks to help get out the Democratic vote in the final stretch of the race. If you can go up to Massachusetts for a few days, the entire week, etc, it would be a huge help, and they will provide housing. You can also make phone calls to MA voters from CT to make sure they get out and vote next Tuesday, January 19.

Please step up and donate your time if you can. This race DOES effect all of us, because keeping that seat Democratic makes our voice even stronger for the upcoming battles of this year in the Senate.

HOW CT VOLUNTEERS CAN HELP ON THE COAKLEY CAMPAIGN IN MA:

VOLUNTEER IN MASSACHUSETTS

To sign up directly for phone banks:

--Click on the Events section of http://www.marthacoakley.com

To do other kinds of volunteer or go multiple days and need housing and/or transportation:

--contact John Spears, OFA State Director in MA at

spearsj@dnc.org

MAKE PHONE CALLS FROM HOME

Use Organizing for America's "Neighbor to Neighbor" call tool online to make calls to Massachusetts voters from home.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/votercontact/landing

CONTACT: Jen Just

jramsayjust@gmail.com

with questions.

COME TO PHONE BANKS IN HARTFORD and NEW HAVEN (other locations TBA):

HARTFORD

WHERE: CT Dems State Central HQ 330 Main St., 3rd Floor

WHEN: Wednesday, January 13 (TODAY!) & Thursday, January 14: 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Saturday, January 16 & Sunday, January 17: Noon - 4:00pm

Monday, January 18: Noon - 3:00pm & 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Tuesday, January 19: 5:00pm - 8:00pm

RSVP: Jen Just jramsayjust@gmail.com or call CT Dems at (860) 560-1775.

NEW HAVEN

WHERE: Blue State Coffee, : 84 Wall St., New Haven

WHEN: Thursday, January 14: 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Contact: Ben Stango benjamin.Stango@yale.edu

Thank you for your continued support of the CT Young Democrats organization, and we hope that you will take some time to help out our neighbors to the North in their battle to keep our Democratic voice strong in the Senate!
--------------------


Remarks on Regional Architecture in Asia: Principles and Priorities
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 21:55:23 -0600
Recovery Act Information: Financial and Activity Report Weekly Update: January 11, 2010
Wed, 13 Jan 2010 05:26:02 -0600
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services Released Today: Compendium of Reports on State Law, Business Practices, and Policy Variations
Secretary Clinton's Address Caps Year of U.S. Engagement and Leadership in Asia-Pacific
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 18:07:46 -0600
Remarks on the Earthquake in Haiti
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 18:12:58 -0600
Secretary Clinton's Address Caps Year of U.S. Engagement and Leadership in Asia-Pacific
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 18:07:46 -0600
Statement Urging Release of Mourning Mothers in Iran
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 18:41:02 -0600

National Cyber Alert System

Technical Cyber Security Alert TA10-012A

Oracle Updates for Multiple Vulnerabilities

Original release date:
Last revised: --
Source: US-CERT

Systems Affected

* Oracle Database 11g, version 11.1.0.7
* Oracle Database 10g Release 2, versions 10.2.0.3, 10.2.0.4
* Oracle Database 10g, version 10.1.0.5
* Oracle Database 9i Release 2, versions 9.2.0.8, 9.2.0.8DV
* Oracle Application Server 10g Release 3 (10.1.3), versions 10.1.3.4.0, 10.1.3.5, 10.1.3.5.1
* Oracle Application Server 10g Release 2 (10.1.2), version 10.1.2.3.0
* Oracle Access Manager versions 7.0.4.3, 10.1.4.2
* Oracle E-Business Suite Release 12, versions 12.0.4, 12.0.5, 12.0.6, 12.1.1 and 12.1.2
* Oracle E-Business Suite Release 11i, version 11.5.10.2
* PeopleSoft Enterprise HCM (TAM), versions 8.9 and 9.0
* Oracle WebLogic Server 10.0 through MP2, 10.3.0 and 10.3.1
* Oracle WebLogic Server 9.0 GA, 9.1 GA and 9.2 through 9.2 MP3
* Oracle WebLogic Server 8.1 through 8.1 SP6
* Oracle WebLogic Server 7.0 through 7.0 SP7
* Oracle JRockit R27.6.5 and earlier (JDK/JRE 6, 5, 1.4.2)
* Primavera P6 Enterprise Project Portfolio Management 6.1, 6.2.1 and 7.0
* Primavera P6 Web Services 6.2.1, 7.0 and 7.0SP1

Overview

Oracle products and components are affected by multiple
vulnerabilities. The impacts of these vulnerabilities include
remote execution of arbitrary code, information disclosure, and
denial of service.

I. Description

The Oracle Critical Patch Update Advisory - January 2010 addresses
24 vulnerabilities in various Oracle products and components. The
document provides information about affected components, access and
authorization required for successful exploitation, and the impact
from the vulnerabilities on data confidentiality, integrity, and
availability.

Oracle has associated CVE identifiers with the vulnerabilities
addressed in this Critical Patch Update. If significant additional
details about vulnerabilities and remediation techniques become
available, we will update the Vulnerability Notes Database.

II. Impact

The impact of these vulnerabilities varies depending on the
product, component, and configuration of the system. Potential
consequences include the execution of arbitrary code or commands,
information disclosure, and denial of service. Vulnerable
components may be available to unauthenticated, remote attackers.
An attacker who compromises an Oracle database may be able to
access sensitive information.

III. Solution

Apply the appropriate patches or upgrade as specified in the Oracle
Critical Patch Update Advisory - January 2010. Note that this
document only lists newly corrected issues. Updates to patches for
previously known issues are not listed.

IV. References

* Oracle Patch Update Advisory - January 2010 -
<http://www.oracle.com/technology/deploy/security/critical-patch-updates/cpujan2010.html>

* Critical Patch Updates and Security Alerts -
<http://www.oracle.com/technology/deploy/security/alerts.htm>

* Map of Public Vulnerability to Advisory/Alert -
<http://www.oracle.com/technology/deploy/security/critical-patch-updates/public_vuln_to_advisory_mapping.html>

____________________________________________________________________

The most recent version of this document can be found at:

<http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/techalerts/TA10-012A.html>


U.S. Department of State Highlights: Travel to Chile
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 07:00:00 -0600

US-CERT Current Activity

Adobe Releases Update for Adobe Reader and Acrobat

Original release date: January 12, 2010 at 7:01 pm
Last revised: January 12, 2010 at 7:01 pm

Adobe has released an update for Reader and Acrobat to address
multiple vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities affect Adobe Reader
9.2 and earlier versions for Windows, Macintosh, and UNIX and Adobe
Acrobat 9.2 and earlier versions for Windows and Macintosh.
Exploitation of these vulnerabilities may allow an attacker to execute
arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service condition.

US-CERT encourages users and administrators to review Adobe Security
Bulletin APBS10-02 and apply any necessary updates to help mitigate
the risks.

Relevant Url(s):
<http://www.adobe.com/support/security/bulletins/apsb10-02.html>

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


Meeting With Japanese Foreign Minister Okada
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 07:00:00 -0600

FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2010
House Meets At… First Vote Predicted… Last Vote Predicted…

10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.

"One Minutes” (15 per side)

Disposing of the President's Veto of H.J.Res. 64 - Making Further Continuing Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2010 (Rep. Obey – Appropriations)

Suspensions (11 Bills)
1) H.Res. 981 - Supporting continued political and economic development in Ukraine (Rep. Berman - Foreign Affairs)
2) H.Res. 970 - Congratulating Flint native, University of Alabama sophomore, and running back Mark Ingram on winning the 2009 Heisman Trophy and honoring both his athletic and academic achievements (Rep. Kildee - Education and Labor)
3) H.Res. 862 - Congratulating the staff, students, and faculty at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy for winning the 2009 Star Innovator in the Intel Schools of Distinction competition (Rep. Foster - Education and Labor)
4) H.Res. 1001 - Congratulating North Central College on winning the 2009 NCAA Division III men's cross country championship (Rep. Biggert - Education and Labor)
5) H.Res. 1002 - Honoring the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and encouraging the continued commitment to Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a national day of service (Rep. Platts - Education and Labor)
6) H.Res. 860 - Supporting the initiatives of Chicago Wilderness and the Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (Rep. Quigley - Education and Labor)
7) H.R. 3892 - To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 101 West Highway 64 Bypass in Roper, North Carolina, as the "E.V. Wilkins Post Office" (Rep. Butterfield - Oversight and Government Reform)
8) H.R. 4139 - To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 7464 Highway 503 in Hickory, Mississippi, as the "Sergeant Matthew L. Ingram Post Office" (Rep. Harper - Oversight and Government Reform)
9) S. 692 - To provide that claims of the United States to certain documents relating to Franklin Delano Roosevelt shall be treated as waived and relinquished in certain circumstances. (Sen. Schumer - Oversight and Government Reform)
10) H.R. 2646 - Government Accountability Office Improvement Act of 2009 (Rep. Towns - Oversight and Government Reform)
11) H.R. 3237 - To enact certain laws relating to national and commercial space programs as title 51, United States Code, "National and Commercial Space Programs (Rep. Conyers - Judiciary)

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


National Cyber Alert System

Cyber Security Alert SA10-012B

Microsoft Windows and Adobe Flash Player 6 Vulnerabilities

Original release date:
Last revised: --
Source: US-CERT

Systems Affected

* Microsoft Windows and Internet Explorer
* Adobe (Macromedia) Flash Player 6

Overview

Microsoft has released updates to address a vulnerability in
Microsoft Windows. Microsoft has also published an Advisory about
multiple vulnerabilities in Adobe Flash Player 6 that is included
with Windows XP.

Solution

Install updates

The updates to address the Windows font vulnerability are available
on the Microsoft Update site (requires Internet Explorer). We
recommend enabling Automatic Updates.

Upgrade or Remove Adobe Flash Player 6

To address the Flash Player 6 vulnerabilitites, upgrade to a
current version or remove Flash Player using the uninstaller.

Description

Microsoft Security Bulletin MS10-001 describes a vulnerability in
the Embedded Open Type (EOT) font engine in Windows. Microsoft
Security Advisory (979267) notes multiple vulnerabilities in Adobe
Flash Player 6 (formerly Macromedia Flash Player) that is included
with Windows XP. The Advisory recommends that Windows XP users
upgrade or remove Flash Player

These vulnerabilities may allow an attacker to gain control of your
computer or cause it to crash.

References

* Microsoft Security Bulletin Summary for January 2010 -
<http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/ms10-jan.mspx>

* CVE-2010-0018 -
<http://www.cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2010-0018>

* Vulnerabilities in Adobe Flash Player 6 Provided in Windows XP
Could Allow Remote Code Execution -
<http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/advisory/979267.mspx>

* Vulnerability Note VU#204889 -
<http://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/204889>

* Adobe Flash Player - <http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/>

* How to uninstall the Adobe Flash Player plug-in and ActiveX control
-
<http://kb2.adobe.com/cps/141/tn_14157.html>

____________________________________________________________________

The most recent version of this document can be found at:

<http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/alerts/SA10-012B.html>


National Cyber Alert System

Technical Cyber Security Alert TA10-012B

Microsoft Windows EOT Font and Adobe Flash Player 6 Vulnerabilities

Original release date:
Last revised: --
Source: US-CERT

Systems Affected

* Microsoft Windows and Internet Explorer
* Adobe (Macromedia) Flash Player 6

Overview

Microsoft has released updates to address a vulnerability in the
Windows Embedded Open Type (EOT) font engine. Microsoft has also
published an Advisory about multiple vulnerabilities in Adobe
(Macromedia) Flash Player 6 that is included with Windows XP.

I. Description

Microsoft Security Bulletin MS10-001 describes a vulnerability in
the Embedded Open Type (EOT) font engine in Windows. Microsoft
Security Advisory (979267) recommends that Windows XP users remove
or upgrade Adobe Flash Player 6 (formerly Macromedia Flash Player)
that is included with Windows XP. Vulnerability Note VU#204889
discusses one vulnerability in Flash Player 6 and provides several
workarounds.

These vulnerabilities could be exploited by loading specially
crafted fonts or Flash content via Internet Explorer.

Microsoft assigns the EOT font vulnerability a "low" severity
rating in most current versions of Windows and notes that reliable
code execution is unlikely. The severity rating for Windows 2000,
however, is "critical."

II. Impact

A remote, unauthenticated attacker could execute arbitrary code,
gain elevated privileges, or cause a vulnerable application to
crash.

III. Solution

Apply updates from Microsoft

Microsoft Security Bulletin MS10-001 provides updates for the EOT
font vulnerability. The security bulletin describes any known
issues related to the updates. Administrators are encouraged to
note these issues and test for any potentially adverse effects.
Administrators should consider using an automated update
distribution system such as Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).

Upgrade, Remove, or Disable Adobe Flash Player 6

Adobe Flash Player 6 is included with Windows XP. Adobe has
addresssed these vulnerabilities in newer versions of Flash Player.
Upgrade to a more recent version of Flash Player (such as Flash
Player 10). Alternatively, uninstall Flash Player or set the kill
bit for the Flash Player ActiveX control as described in Microsoft
Security Advisory (979267) and Vulnerability Note VU#204889.

IV. References

* Microsoft Security Bulletin Summary for January 2010 -
<http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/ms10-jan.mspx>

* Microsoft Security Bulletin MS10-001 -
<http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/ms10-001.mspx>

* MS10-001: Font file decompression vulnerability -
<http://blogs.technet.com/srd/archive/2010/01/12/ms10-001-font-file-decompression-vulnerability.aspx>

* CVE-2010-0018 -
<http://www.cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2010-0018>

* Vulnerabilities in Adobe Flash Player 6 Provided in Windows XP
Could Allow Remote Code Execution -
<http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/advisory/979267.mspx>

* Vulnerability Note VU#204889 -
<http://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/204889>

* Adobe Flash Player - <http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/>

* How to uninstall the Adobe Flash Player plug-in and ActiveX control
-
<http://kb2.adobe.com/cps/141/tn_14157.html>

* Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) -
<http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/wsus/default.aspx>

____________________________________________________________________

The most recent version of this document can be found at:

<http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/techalerts/TA10-012B.html>


Statement on Google Operations in China
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 22:09:29 -0600



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