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Friday March 20 2009 for yesterday's ticker entries click here



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March 20, 2009

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VIDEO: Obama promises new energy jobs

from CNN.com - Video
President Obama says his budget makes investments in new technologies that create renewable energy.


VIDEO: The Fed's shopping spree

from CNN.com - Video
CNNMoney.com's Poppy Harlow looks at the latest unemployment numbers and the Fed's shopping spree.


VIDEO: Spitzer: Larger problems at AIG

from CNN.com - Video
Former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer says the focus on AIG bonuses may force many to miss the big picture.


VIDEO: Napolitano confident in Mexico

from CNN.com - Video
Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano says she is confident in Mexico's effort to ease violence along the border.


World Leaders - Updates for 11 - 18 March, 2009

from CIA Library
March 19 - Posted updated Chiefs of State and Cabinet Members of Foreign Governments with updated entries for Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Cambodia, Cuba--NDE, Egypt, France, Ghana, Italy, Latvia, Libya, Madagascar, Mexico, Palau, Russia, Saudi Arabia. Changes reflect updates in leadership, positions, or the spelling of officials' names in the country listings during the period 11 - 18 Mar 2009.


S. 386, Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act of 2009

from CBO's Latest 10 Documents
Cost estimate for the bill as reported by the Senate Committee on the Judiciary on March 5, 2009


S. 49, Public Corruption Prosecution Improvements Act

from CBO's Latest 10 Documents
Cost estimate for the bill as reported by the Senate Committee on the Judiciary on March 12, 2009


Canadian dollar jumps as oil and gold also experience surges

from CBC | Top Stories News
Booming prices for oil and gold coupled with weakness in the U.S. dollar helped to send the loonie sharply higher on Thursday.


U.S. House of Representatives to tax bonuses at bailed-out firms

from CBC | Top Stories News
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill on Thursday that would see some American International Group executives hit with a 90 per cent tax on bonuses they received.


Cayman Islands in the Foreign Press
OPEC Update: Get Used to Lower Prices
Economists Weigh In on the Fed's Shocker
Peer-to-Patent: A System for Increasing Transparency
Fed: Measuring the Aftershocks
Battery Breakthroughs: Progress for Electric Cars
Stocks Resume Their Rally
Why IBM Wants Sun
Fed Breaks Out the Heavy Artillery
GE Capital: We'll Make Money in '09
Ballmer: Microsoft Still Wants Yahoo

VIDEO: Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY)

from C-SPAN Recent Video
Joint Economic Cmte. Chairman Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) gives her reaction to yesterday’s testimony by AIG Insurance & Financial Services Company’s CEO Edward Liddy regarding bonuses to executives.
Length: 26 min.

Published: Thursday at 8:30am (ET)


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. Topics discussed were the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, bonuses disbursed by the AIG Insurance & Financial Services Company and the FY 2010 budget.
Length: 19 min.

Published: Thursday at 10:45am (ET)


VIDEO: State Department Press Briefing

from C-SPAN Recent Video
Acting Spokesman Robert Wood conducts a daily briefing at the State Department.
Length: 27 min.

Published: Thursday at 11:30am (ET)


VIDEO: First Lady Michelle Obama on Women’s History Month

from C-SPAN Recent Video
Celebrating Women’s History Month, First Lady Michelle Obama visited Anacostia High School, where she spoke to students about their career goals and achieving their dreams. She also attended a roundtable discussion with students on Women’s History Month.
Length: 21 min.

Published: Thursday at 11:30am (ET)


VIDEO: House Oversight and Government Reform Hearing on Prevention of Stimulus Waste and Fraud

from C-SPAN Recent Video
Earl Devaney, Chair of the Recovery Act Accountability & Transparency Board, testified before the House Oversight & Government Reform Committee in a hearing on “Preventing Stimulus Waste and Fraud: Who Are The Watchdogs?”
Length: 3 hr. 5 min.

Published: Thursday at 10am (ET)


VIDEO: Pres. Obama Town Hall Meeting in Los Angeles, CA

from C-SPAN Recent Video
President Obama spoke to Los Angeles, CA residents at Miguel Contreras Learning Center about the economy and his FY 2010 budget. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger delivered introductory remarks.
Length: 1 hr. 10 min.

Published: Thursday at 4:30pm (ET)


BERMUDA: Senate passes Proceeds of Crime amendment

from Bermuda News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
The Proceeds of Crime Amendment Act 2009 releases money from the Confiscated Assets Fund for combating drug abuse and improving Bermuda's anti-money laundering regime.


UK financial reviewer to meet Bermuda Govt. officials

from Bermuda News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
Financial services expert Michael Foot will be meeting with key members of Bermuda's Government, the Bermuda Monetary Authority and the financial services sector this week as part of the UK review of ...


G20 vows to regulate hedge funds

from Bermuda News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
HORSHAM, England (Reuters) - G20 finance ministers promised money on Saturday to rescue troubled emerging market economies and said they would use their full fiscal and monetary firepower to combat th


Bermuda: Finance Minister says financial controllers will work in each Ministry to monitor accounts

from Bermuda News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
The news comes after the House of Assembly's Public Accounts Committee (PAC), in its recent report on 2005-06, raised concerns about excessive delays completing accounts by Government bodies and more ...


Bermuda is a leader in tax information exchange

from Bermuda News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
Finance Minister Paula Cox looked to differentiate Bermuda from more secretive low-tax jurisdictions yesterday, when she argued that the Island was no "Johnny come lately" amid a widening move towards...


BERMUDA: Foreign travel requirements changing June 1st

from Bermuda News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com
Evelyn Fernandez Published: March 19, 2009 On June 1, 2009, U.S. citizens must present a passport book, passport card, or other travel documents approved by the U.S. government to enter the United...


B.C. SETS FINE AMOUNT FOR SECOND-HAND SMOKE IN VEHICLES

from BC Government NEWS
VICTORIA – Children under the age of 16 will be protected from second-hand smoke in all motor vehicles when new regulations come into effect April 7, World Health Day, announced Public Safety Minister John van Dongen and Healthy Living and Sport Minister Mary Polak.


CANADA: COMMUNITY-BASED INITIATIVES ANNOUNCED FOR OIL AND GAS

from BC Government NEWS
DAWSON CREEK – A package of innovative, community-based initiatives related to oil and gas development has been created to enhance community life and improve relations between landowners and industry in northeastern B.C., announced Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Minister Blair Lekstrom.


B.C. INVESTS $27.4M IN HOUSING FOR HOMELESS IN VICTORIA

from BC Government NEWS
VICTORIA – The Province is providing $27.4 million for two new supportive housing developments, creating 272 jobs in Victoria, Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman announced.


Officials: US prepares civilian 'surge' in Afghan

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST by By MATTHEW LEE and ANNE GEARAN
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Top aides to President Barack Obama are recommending that the United States combine a boost in military deployments with a steep increase in civilian experts to combat a growing insurgency in Afghanistan, senior U.S. officials said Wednesday....


Dodd: Administration sought bonus limit revision

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST by By JIM KUHNHENN
WASHINGTON (AP) -- For a while, the disappearance of an executive bonus restriction from last month's economic stimulus looked like sleight of hand worthy of a Las Vegas stage. No one could explain how the provision faded into thin air....


US to attend Afghan meeting in Russia

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Obama administration has accepted an invitation to attend a Russian-hosted conference on Afghanistan next week at which Iran is also expected to participate....


Senate panel confirms Locke for Commerce

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST by By MATTHEW DALY
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Senate Commerce Committee has approved President Barack Obama's nominee for commerce secretary....


US-China policy group calls for mutual national respect

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST by By BARRY SCHWEID
WASHINGTON (AP) -- To relieve tensions, ease up on mistrust and develop more respect. That's a leading policy think tank's prescription for the leaders of the United States and China....


Biden: Help on the way for middle-class families

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST by By ELIZABETH DUNBAR
ST. CLOUD, Minn. (AP) -- Minnesotans put Vice President Joe Biden and four Cabinet members on the spot Thursday, asking how federal aid could help their transit projects, community colleges and small businesses make it through the economic downturn....


Federal data to be released unless harm foreseen

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST by By MICHAEL J. SNIFFEN
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Obama administration advised federal agencies Thursday to release their records and information to the public unless foreseeable harm would result....


New head of NOAA says science will guide policy

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST by By JEFF BARNARD
GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP) -- The new head of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will not only be talking the talk on global warming, she will be walking the walk - eight blocks from the Metro station to her office....


Senate confirms scientific research posts

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Senate confirmed on Thursday two leading experts on climate change to represent top scientific positions in the government....


Pope meets Muslims, says religion rejects violence

from AP Top Headlines At 4:24 a.m. EST by By VICTOR L. SIMPSON
YAOUNDE, Cameroon (AP) -- Pope Benedict XVI told Muslim leaders on Thursday that true religion rejects violence, and he held up peaceful coexistence between Christianity and Islam in Cameroon as "a beacon to other African nations."...


Auto suppliers to get $5 billion in aid

from AP Top Headlines At 4:24 a.m. EST by By KEN THOMAS
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Treasury Department, trying to stabilize the battered auto industry, will provide up to $5 billion in financing to troubled auto parts suppliers who are linked to Detroit's carmakers, officials said Thursday....


Jaguar, Buick dethrone Lexus in reliability study

from AP Top Headlines At 4:24 a.m. EST by By DAN STRUMPF
NEW YORK (AP) -- Jaguar and Buick surged to the top of J.D. Power and Associates' closely watched vehicle dependability study this year, tying for the No. 1 spot and dethroning Lexus for the first time since the Japanese luxury brand has been a part of the survey....


13 firms receiving federal bailout owe back taxes

from AP Top Headlines At 4:24 a.m. EST by By STEPHEN OHLEMACHER
WASHINGTON (AP) -- At least 13 firms receiving billions of dollars in bailout money owe a total of more than $220 million in unpaid federal taxes, a key lawmaker said Thursday. Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., chairman of a House subcommittee overseeing the federal bailout, said two firms owe more than $100 million apiece. "This is shameful. It is a disgrace," said Lewis. "We are going to get to the bottom of what is going on here."...


Ex-Bush admin official: Many at Gitmo are innocent

from AP Top Headlines At 4:24 a.m. EST by By ANDREW O. SELSKY
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) -- Many detainees locked up at Guantanamo were innocent men swept up by U.S. forces unable to distinguish enemies from noncombatants, a former Bush administration official said Thursday. "There are still innocent people there," Lawrence B. Wilkerson, a Republican who was chief of staff to then-Secretary of State Colin Powell, told The Associated Press. "Some have been there six or seven years."...


Obama reaches out to Iran, looks for diplomatic engagement

from AP Top Headlines At 4:24 a.m. EST by By PHILIP ELLIOTT
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama told Iran's people and leaders that the United States wants to engage with their country and end decades of strained relationship, but not unless their officials stop making threats....


Afghanistan: Freedom of expression faces increasing threats

from Amnesty International USA: Most Recent English News Releases
Freedom of expression in Afghanistan faces increasing threats from the government as well as anti-government forces, Amnesty International warned today.


Bahamas: Human Rights Council adopts Universal Periodic Review outcome on Bahamas: Amnesty International regrets rejection of recommendations to abolish the death penalty

from Amnesty International USA: Most Recent English News Releases
Amnesty International welcomes the Bahamas' prompt ratification of the two Covenants, following the announcement in the Universal Perodic Review (UPR) Working Group of its intention to do so


7 Tips for Holding Onto Your Health Care

from AlterNet.org by AlterNet Staff, AlterNet
Laid off? Here are things you can do to protect your health care.


Was Eliot Spitzer Taken Out Because He Was Going to Bust AIG?

from AlterNet.org by Melina Ripcoco, Brilliant at Breakfast
America is known for its great second acts, and we may be witnessing the curtain rising on Spitzer's.


Sunoco Workers First to Ratify Oil Industry Pattern Pacts

from AFL-CIO NOW BLOG by James Parks
Members of the United Steelworkers (USW) employed at Sunoco overwhelmingly ratified new contracts with the company that follow the USW’s National Oil Bargaining pattern agreement.


Some Anti-Worker CEOs Not Working with a Full Deck

from AFL-CIO NOW BLOG by admin

Denise Bowyer, vice president of American Income Life Insurance Co. and secretary of American Income Life’s Labor Advisory Board, says casino mogul Sheldon Adelson is playing the wrong cards when it comes to the Employee Free Choice Act.


CNA/NNOC, SEIU Agree to Work Together in Bringing Voice to Health Care Workers

from AFL-CIO NOW BLOG by Mike Hall

The nation’s two largest health care unions today signed a dramatic new agreement to work together to bring a voice to health care workers around the country and ramp up efforts to pass the Employee Free Choice Act.


How to Create American-Made Clean Energy

from AFL-CIO NOW BLOG by James Parks
Rapid growth in green jobs, especially those that create clean and efficient energy, offers huge opportunities to revive American manufacturing and rebuild the nation’s economy. But there’s a hitch: Most of the components for clean energy are manufactured overseas. The United States ranks fifth among countries that manufacture solar components, even though the solar cell originated in America. The fact that other countries are prepared to deliver these products means that new legislation creating demand for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency services actually could create new jobs overseas, even though we have a robust manufacturing infrastructure.


Obama: We Should Make It Easier for Workers to Organize

from AFL-CIO NOW BLOG by Seth Michaels

Barack Obama speaks to workers last fall on the campaign trail.

Although the focus on the Employee Free Choice Act is on the U.S. House and the Senate, it’s important to remember the reason we’re closer than ever to passing this critical bill is because working people turned out in huge numbers to elect a president who will sign it into law. We got a fresh reminder of that commitment yesterday when Barack Obama paid a visit to Costa Mesa, Calif., to discuss the economy.


Obama aims for a million green cars by 2015

from ABC News: Top Stories
US President Barack Obama has unveiled a $US 2.4 billion ($3.5 billion) boost for electric vehicle development, vowing to compete with foreign nations in the race to be world leader on renewable energy.


Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/19/09
April S. Boyd, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce, vice Nathaniel F. Wienecke, resigned.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 3/19/09
Today, President Barack Obama announced that Jon Wellinghoff, currently serving as Acting Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), will be designated as Chairman. President Obama also announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key administration posts: Suedeen Kelly to be re-appointed as a Commissioner at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; Elizabeth King, Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs, Department of Defense; T. Michael Kerr, Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management, Department of Labor; Gabriella Gomez, Assistant Secretary for Legislation and Congressional Affairs, Department of Education; Dr. Joe Leonard, Jr., Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, United States Department of Agriculture; Cameron F. Kerry, General Counsel, Department of Commerce; Robert S. Rivkin, General Counsel, Department of Transportation; and M. Patricia Smith, Solicitor, Department of Labor.

President Obama Announces $2.4 Billion in Funding to Support Next Generation Electric Vehicles
Today, President Barack Obama announced the availability of $2.4 billion in funding to put American ingenuity and America's manufacturers to work producing next generation Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles and the advanced battery components that will make these vehicles run. The initiative will create tens of thousands of U.S. jobs and help us end our addiction to foreign oil. Americans who decide to purchase these Plug-in Hybrid vehicles can claim a tax credit of up to $7,500.

Funding for California in the first 30 days since signing of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Middle Class Task Force Holds Town Hall Meeting on the Recovery Act
Today in St. Cloud, Minnesota, the Middle Class Task Force is holding a town hall meeting, titled “Road to Recovery: Building a Strong Middle Class through the Recovery Act.” The town hall discussion will focus on ways implementation of the Recovery Act will help the middle class. The Task Force is holding its meeting at the New Flyer of America Bus Company in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

Sudan Special Envoy Statement
White House: A New Year, A New Beginning for Iran
President Obama gives a New Year's video message to the people and leadership of Iran.

Task Force Meeting 2: A New Perspective on the Middle Class
The second meeting of the Middle Class Task Force, dealing with the Recovery Act and the middle class, concluded this afternoon. The staff report issued as the meeting was set to begin is an insightful document, demonstrating a new perspective on the middle class embodied in the Recovery Act.

Recovery funds for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
The President speaks at the Edison Electric Vehicle Technical Center in Pomona, California, laying out his vision for green transportation and a green economy, and announcing the availability of billions in Recovery funds for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles.

The Middle Class in Minnesota
*** UPDATED: READ THE STAFF REPORT FOR THE MEETING *** The Middle Class Task Force has their second meeting today in St. Cloud, Minnesota, a town hall to discuss the impact of the Recovery Act on the middle class and hear out people's concerns.

MakingHomeAffordable.gov: Connecting the President’s plan with those who need it
A new website from the Treasury Department helps guide homeowners through the President's Making Home Affordable program. Stephanie Valencia with the Office of Public Liaison walks us through, and gives an update on how the plan and the mortgage crisis have been playing out.

Wilkerson Blasts Cheney
In a guest post on the Washington Note, Lawrence Wilkerson, the former chief of staff to Secretary of State Colin Powell, argues former Vice President Dick Cheney made the country less safe.

Dodd Not Considering Retirement
In an interview with the Hartford Courant, Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-CT) acknowledged he has been enmeshed in multiple controversies recently and that doesn't help his re-election bid.

Said Dodd: "I've been getting whacked around the head for the last eight or nine months -- part of it my own fault for not stepping up earlier. The backdrop doesn't help. Jobs being lost. Homes being lost."

But he said he's not thinking of stepping aside for another Democrat in 2010.

"I'm running. I haven't announced anything yet... I want to win. What I want more than winning is to do what I'm supposed to be doing."


Obama wins praise by Schwarzenegger
California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) was "mesmerized" after President Obama's town hall meeting in Los Angeles today, according to Politico.

Said Schwarzenegger: "I've never seen that. Usually people are so guarded. The aides are always so guarded. They're so afraid that you will blow it or that you will make news that's unintended and all those things."

"But I think he's so smart. He's so clear with his thinking and he's so well informed and has been dealing with policy in all this and is also very philosophic it's almost like. I think he's just like -- I think it's beautiful."


Obama schedules second prime time news conference
Posted: 05:49 PM ET

From CNN Political Producer Peter Hamby
The president first held a prime time press conference in early February.
WASHINGTON (CNN) – President Obama will hold his second prime time news conference next Tuesday evening at 8 pm ET, the White House announced Wednesday.


CNN Poll: Americans back Iraq troop withdrawal plan
Posted: 01:45 PM ET

From CNN Deputy Political Director Paul Steinhauser
Seven out of ten people questioned in a CNN/Opinion Research Corporation survey released Thursday say they support the president's announced plan to remove most U.S. troops from Iraq by August of next year.
WASHINGTON (CNN) – As the war in Iraq enters its seventh year, a new national poll indicates that most Americans favor President Barack Obama's withdrawal plan which would bring most U.S. troops home by next summer.


Female leaders, first lady head to DC schools
Posted: 02:17 PM ET

From CNN's Sarah Parker
Michelle Obama spoke to students at Anacostia High School in Washington, DC Thursday.
(CNN) - It's another star-studded event at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Grammy-award winners Alicia Keyes and Sheryl Crow, Olympic gold-medalist gymnast Dominique Dawes, astronaut Mae Jemison and others joined Michelle Obama at the White House Thursday to participate in a series of events honoring National Women's History Month.


Cheney belongs in jail, says Dreyfus
Posted: 02:29 PM ET

Dreyfus was in Washington to promote preservation of Civil War battlefields.
(CNN) – He played Dick Cheney in the recent Oliver Stone film 'W,' but Richard Dreyfuss made clear he's no fan of the former vice president.

Watch AIG buyers, not bonuses, Spitzer says
Posted: 06:43 PM ET
(CNN) — Outrage over bailed-out insurance giant American International Group’s million-dollar bonuses may grab headlines, but its payouts on complicated financial instruments deserve closer examination, ex-New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer said Thursday.

Argentina plans to share taxes from soybeans
Posted: 07:33 PM ET
(CNN) — Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner announced Thursday that she will order the federal government to share with the provinces and municipalities taxes from the export of soybeans — one of Argentina’s biggest exports.

Obama appears on ‘Tonight Show’
Posted: 02:23 AM ET
LOS ANGELES, California (CNN) — President Barack Obama mixed jokes with serious discussion Thursday during an appearance on “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno.”

New Technologies for USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report for U.S. Department of Homeland Security

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
March 19, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 17 pages - 148 KB)


Former Memphis Police Officers Sentenced for Conspiracy to Violate Civil Rights
Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:00:00 -0500
Two former Memphis police officers were sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Memphis for their roles in a conspiracy to rob drug dealers.

Today's top Air Force stories include:

AF personnel leaders focus on Airmen, modernization
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123140347

U.S., Japan forces conduct bilateral training
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123140299

DOD officials release sexual assault statistics
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123140293

New Kandahar unit prepares for troop increase
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123140281

Special assignments considered for Airmen in time of need
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123140273


Force development helps put faces in places

Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education Program

Be sure to check out the new look for the model curriculum in its print-/handout-ready format. While there, view the new FESHE bachelor’s courses outlines that reflect the new Web-based formats delivered by the Degrees at a Distance Program schools. You can also download under the “Tools and Resources” section the new FESHE brochure in its DHS/FEMA configuration or take the same marketing piece without our logo and customize it with your own logo and content. You can also download the artwork for a FESHE tabletop display for conferences and classroom buildings which, again, is in both formats.

Visit the new page at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/nfa/higher_ed/index.shtm.

The link to the USFA/NFA TRADE Site is: http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/nfa/trade/

U.S. Fire Administration Training, Resources and Data Exchange Network (TRADENET) Update

The TRADENET newsletter is distributed through the USFA/FEMA server. This allows you to control your subscription easier by allowing you to add new email addresses or delete old ones. There are over 29,122 subscribers worldwide to the weekly newsletter. This is an increase of 235 subscriptions since last week. If you know of someone who wishes to subscribe, all they need to do is go to the following site, http://service.govdelivery.com/service/multi_subscribe.html?code=USDHSFA and enter your email address. They will then be taken to a page which will allow them to select their choices of newsletters.

If you have a question or comment for inclusion in the weekly TRADENET newsletter, please send it and your contact information to robert.w.campbell@dhs.gov. Please be sure and include your Department or Organization name, your email address and any other method you wish to receive feedback. USFA reserves the right to edit content submitted or reject any material submitted.

Are you familiar with the training program called “Coffee Break Training?” It is on the USFA website and can be found at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/nfa/coffee-break/. Please access this training and provide any feedback to the Deputy Superintendent Robert Neale at Robert.neale@dhs.gov. He will be happy to receive any feedback regarding this program.

Remember the Website for the National Fallen Firefighters program is http://www.everyonegoeshome.com/. Also, please visit their Resources page at http://www.everyonegoeshome.com/resources. This page contains many PowerPoint presentations and downloadable video clips available for your use.


UST Home Page for U.S. Department of Justice

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has issued the following news release today:
Current-dollar spending on travel and tourism (spending not adjusted for price changes) declined at an annual rate of 22.2 percent in 2008:4 after increasing 1.3 percent (revised) in 2008:3.
The full text of the release on BEA's web site can be found at
http://www.bea.gov/newsreleases/industry/tourism/tournewsrelease.htm
CMS Updates to Coverage Pages
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 07:09:00 -0500
Date: 03/19/2009
Subject: CMS Updates to Coverage Pages
Content: Posted new tracking sheet for Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty (PTA) of the Carotid Artery Concurrent with Stenting. Also posted Federal Register Notice for May 6 MEDCAC meeting.
New Vacancies at the CFTC.gov
The following job opening has been published.
09-185, Information Technology Specialist (Litigation), CT-2210-13/14
Office of Information Technology, Washington, DC

Closes April 8, 2009
CSMS# 09-000129 - Delay of Trade Action in European Community (EC)-Beef Hormones Dispute
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 08:57:09 -0500
Traumatic Brain Injury: The Basics
Tue, 17 Mar 2009 19:00:00 -0500
March is National Brain Injury Awareness Month
Tue, 17 Mar 2009 19:00:00 -0500
Posted by: Lieutenant General Eric B. Schoomaker
Medical Pioneers: Dr. Kenneth Mattox
Tue, 17 Mar 2009 19:00:00 -0500
A look at the work of leading trauma surgeon Kenneth Mattox, M.D.

Unemployment Insurance Weekly Claims Report for the U.S. Department of Labor

This information has recently been updated.
In the week ending March 14, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 646,000, a decrease of 12,000 from the previous week's revised figure of 658,000. The 4-week moving average was 654,750, an increase of 3,750 from the previous week's revised average of 651,000.
Read the full news release.


Discard D2009-05

The following list of books is from the John F. Kennedy Space Center, NASA Library and is available to all North American Libraries. The list expires March 23, 2009
POC: Linda.Z.Holton-Hamilton@nasa.gov.
AS8 .W231 1978
Walter, Claire.
Winners, the blue ribbon encyclopedia of awards.
New York : Facts on File, 1978.
HJ2052 .H664 1969
Hinrichs, Harley H.
Program budgeting and benefit-cost analysis; cases, text, and readings [by
Harley H. Hinrichs and Graeme M. Taylor]
Pacific Palisades, Calif., Goodyear Pub. Co. [1969]
JK671 .F293 2003 1979
Federal personnel guide.
Washington, Federal Personnel Publications.
KF242.A1 M165 1995 1995
MacLeod, Don, 1955-
The Internet guide for the legal researcher : a how-to guide to locating
and retrieving free and fee-based information on the Internet / by Don
MacLeod. Teaneck, N.J. : Infosources Pub., c1995.
KF3958 .B724 1991 V.1 1991
The Book of chemical lists.
Madison, CT : Business & Legal Reports, c1991.
KF3958 .B724 1991 V.2 1991
The Book of chemical lists. Madison, CT : Business & Legal Reports, c1991.
KF5698 .A5 L253 1989 1989
Land use and the Constitution : principles for planning practice / Brian
W. Blaesser ... [et al.] ; edited by Brian W. Blaesser and Alan C.
Weinstein. Chicago, Ill. : Planners Press : Copies available from American Planning
Association, c1989.
KF6355.2 .P927 1986
Prentice-Hall's explanation of the Tax reform act of 1986 / prepared by
Prentice-Hall Information Services.
Paramus, N. J. : Prentice-Hall Information Services, c1986.
PR9510.9.G64 G621 1992 1992
Goldratt, Eliyahu M., 1948-
The goal : a process of ongoing improvement / by Eliyahu M. Goldratt and
Jeff Cox. 2nd rev. ed. New York : North River Press, c1992.
Q310 .K65 1967
Kl*ir, Ji*r*i.
Cybernetic modelling [by] Ji*r*i Kl*ir [and] Miroslav Valach. [Translated
by Pavel Dolan] English translation edited by W. A. Ainsworth.
London, Iliffe Books; [1967]
Q335 .A791 1978
Artificial intelligence : an introductory course / A. Bundy ... [et al.].
New York : North-Holland : sole distributors in U.S.A. and Canada,
Elsevier North-Holland, 1978.
Q335 .E56 1987 V. 1 1987
Encyclopedia of artificial intelligence / Stuart C. Shapiro, editor in
chief, David Eckroth, managing editor. New York : Wiley, c1987.
Q335 .E56 1987 V. 2 1987
Encyclopedia of artificial intelligence / Stuart C. Shapiro, editor in
chief, David Eckroth, managing editor. New York : Wiley, c1987.
Q335 .L563 1990 1990
Lenat, Douglas B.
Building large knowledge-based systems : representation and inference in
the Cyc project / Douglas B. Lenat, R.V. Guha.
Reading, Mass. : Addison-Wesley Pub. Co., c1990.
Q335 .W783 1984 1984
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Artificial intelligence programming / Eugene Charniak ... [et al.].
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Standards, Computation Laboratory. 4th ed.
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QA55 .M722 1942
Molina, Edward Charles, 1877-
Poisson's exponential binomial limit. Table I. Individual terms. Table II:
Cumulated terms. By E. C. Molina ...
New York, D. Van Nostrand Company, Inc., 1942.
QA76 .M381I 1984
Martin, James, 1933-
An information systems manifesto / James Martin.
Englewood Cliffs, N.J. : Prentice-Hall, c1984.
QA76 .W183U 1985
Walker, Roger S.
Understanding computer science applications / by Roger S. Walker ;
managing editor, Gerald Luecke ; editor, Charles W. Battle.
Dallas, TX : Texas Instruments, c1985.
QA76.15 .G492E 1989 1989
Ginguay, Michel.
Dictionnaire d'informatique : anglais-fran*cais / Michel Ginguay.
9e *ed. Paris ; New York : Masson, 1989.
QA76.15 .G492F 1988 1988
Ginguay, Michel.
Dictionnaire d'informatique : bureautique, t*el*ematique :
francais-anglais / Michel Ginguay. 4e *ed. rev. et augm.
Paris ; New York : Masson, 1988.
QA76.5 .G285 2000 2000
Gay, Martin, 1950-
Recent advances and issues in computers / by Martin K. Gay.
Phoenix, Ariz. : Oryx Press, 2000.
QA76.54 .F723 1993 1993
Formal techniques in real-time and fault-tolerant systems / edited by Jan
Vytopil. Boston : Kluwer Academic Publishers, c1993.
QA76.54 .H157 1991 1991
Halang, Wolfgang A., 1951-
Constructing predictable real time systems / by Wolfgang A. Halang,
Alexander D. Stoyenko. Boston : Kluwer Academic Publishers, c1991.
QA76.54 .R161 1991 1991
Rajkumar, Ragunathan.
Synchronization in real-time systems : a priority inheritance approach /
by Ragunathan Rajkumar.
Boston : Kluwer Academic Publishers, c1991.
QA76.6 .B879 1979
Brown, Peter J.
Writing interactive compilers and interpreters / P. J. Brown.
Chichester [Eng.] ; New York : Wiley, c1979.
QA76.6 .T228 1978 V.2 1977
Tausworthe, Robert C.
Standardized development of computer software / Robert C. Tausworthe.
Englewood Cliffs, N.J. : Prentice-Hall, 1977-1979.
QA76.73.P67 P857 1985 1985
Postscript language reference manual / Adobe Systems.
Reading, Mass. : Addison-Wesley, c1985.
QA76.758 .H926 2000 2000
Humphrey, Watts S., 1927-
Introduction to the team software process(sm) / Watts S. Humphrey.
Reading, Mass. : Addison-Wesley, c2000 (1999 printing)
QA76.76.C69 B514 1992 1992
Berlack, H. Ronald, 1927-
Software configuration management / H. Ronald Berlack.
New York : Wiley, c1992.
QA76.76 .D47 R278 1995 1995
Razavi, Amir H., 1957-
ArcView developer's guide / Amir H. Razavi.
1st ed. Santa Fe, NM, USA : Onword Press, 1995.
QA76.76 .I59 S299 1999 1999
Schaphorst, Richard.
Videoconferencing and videotelephony : technology and standards / Richard
Schaphorst. 2nd ed. Boston : Artech House, c1999.
QA76.76 .O63 H236 1992 V.1 1992
Hands on Learning presents Shell command language for programmers :
[videorecording] Video course. / Shell command language for programmers
Burlington, MA : Hands on Learning, c1992.
QA76.76 .O63 H236 1992 V.2 1992
Hands on Learning presents Shell command language for programmers :
[videorecording] Video course. / Shell command language for programmers
Burlington, MA : Hands on Learning, c1992.
QA76.76 .O63 H236 1992 V.3 1992
Hands on Learning presents Shell command language for programmers :
[videorecording] Video course. / Shell command language for programmers
Burlington, MA : Hands on Learning, c1992.
QA76.76 .O63 H236 1992 V.4 1992
Hands on Learning presents Shell command language for programmers :
[videorecording] Video course. / Shell command language for programmers
Burlington, MA : Hands on Learning, c1992.
QA76.76 .O63 J89 2001 2001
Joyce, Jerry, 1950-
Troubleshooting Microsoft Windows 2000 professional / Jerry Joyce,
Marianne Moon. Redmond, Wash. : Microsoft Press, c2001.
QA76.76.O63 M626 CD-ROM 1995
Microsoft Windows NT resource kit : for Windows NT workstation and Windows
NT server version 3.5. Windows NT resource kit Redmond, Wash. : Microsoft Press, c1995.
QA76.76.O63 M626 V.1 1995
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NT server version 3.5. Windows NT resource kit Redmond, Wash. : Microsoft Press, c1995.
QA76.76.O63 M626 V.2 1995
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NT server version 3.5. Windows NT resource kit Redmond, Wash. : Microsoft Press, c1995.
QA76.76.O63 M626 V.3 1995
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QA76.76.O63 M626 V.4 1995
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William C. Byham, PH.d, with Jeff Cox
Linda Holton-Hamilton
Library Technician
Interlibrary Loan, SSMT, & Acquisitions Department
Kennedy Space Center Library
M/C Library-A
Email: Linda.Z.Holton-Hamilton@nasa.gov.


NFAIS Forum on the Impact of Social Media on the Future of Scholarly Communication: Registration Discount Available Through April 10th.

The National Federation of Advanced Information Services (NFAIS™) is organizing a one-day meeting – Social Media and the Future of Scholarly Communication - to be held on May 1, 2009 at PALINET Headquarters, in Philadelphia, PA, from 9:00am to 4:30pm. Specifics may be viewed at: http://www.nfais.org/events/event_details.cfm?id=55

Pharmaceutical Plant in the Southeast Earns EPA’S Energy Star

Contact Information: Dawn Harris-Young, (404) 562-8421, harris-young.dawn@epa.gov

(Atlanta, Ga. – March 19, 2009) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized Schering-Plough’s Cleveland, Tenn. facility as one of four pharmaceutical plants to earn the Energy Star for performing in the top 25 percent of energy performance nationwide. Compared to similar pharmaceutical plants across the country, the Schering-Plough facility, on average, uses nearly 35 percent less energy during its manufacturing process. The Schering-Plough facility along with Allergan’s Waco, Texas facility, AstraZeneca’s Westborough, Mass. Plant, and AstraZeneca’s Newark, Del. Plant are the first pharmaceutical plants in the nation to earn EPA's ENERGY STAR.

The pharmaceutical sector spends more than $800 million on energy annually. EPA worked in partnership with pharmaceutical companies across the United States to develop the Energy Performance Indicator, which is available to all pharmaceutical companies and enables companies to benchmark their energy performance against others in the industry

More information on Energy Star and pharmaceutical facilities:
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=in_focus.bus_pharmaceutical_focus

ASK MEDICARE Mar09 Edition

Welcome to Ask Medicare, the e-newsletter for caregivers. Read the Mar/Apr edition here:
www.cms.hhs.gov/MyHealthMyMedicare/downloads/AskMedicare_mar2009.pdf
In this edition:
Spring Cleaning & Advance Directives
Help Paying for Drug Coverage
Medical History at Your Fingertips
Preparing to Leave the Hospital
Medicare Covers Colon Screenings
Get Medicareâ??s eHandbook!
To let us know what YOU care about, email Ask Medicare at caregiver_comments@cms.hhs.gov.


ETA - Advisories - Training and Employment Guidance Letters (TEGL) for United States Department of Labor

This information has recently been updated.
TEGL 15-08 -- American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) Planning Instructions for All Current SCSEP Grantees has been added to the database and is now available at http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?DOCN=2730.


CBP Welcomes New Champlain, N.Y. Port Director
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:32:34 -0500
Champlain, N.Y. - Effective March 1, the United States Customs and Border Protection's Area Port of Champlain welcomed its new Area Port Director, Paul Stephan Mongillo.As such, Port Director Mongillo will have oversight of the 10 land border crossings in his area of responsibility, from Fort Covington to Rouses Point. (more)
New Orleans CBP Officers Nab Fugitive Working at Port
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:32:34 -0500
New Orleans - Last week during routine port patrols, U.S. Customs and Border Protection enforcement officers from the port of New Orleans apprehended two illegal aliens working in the port near the Governor Nicholls Street wharf.The individuals were observed conducting work near a vessel that was in port. (more)
Electronic Export Information
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:32:34 -0500
The Shipper's Export Declaration is no longer used

ETA - Advisories - Training and Employment Guidance Letters (TEGL) for United States Department of Labor

This information has recently been updated.
TEGL 15-08 -- American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) Planning Instructions for All Current SCSEP Grantees has been added to the database and is now available at http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?DOCN=2730.


March/April 2009 Ask Medicare newsletter with information on subjects including Advance Directives; Help Paying for Drug Coverage; and the National Caregivers Library

This information has recently been updated, and can be read by visiting this link: http://www.disabilityinfo.gov/digov-public/public/DisplayPage.do?parentFolderId=142.
Group hotel bookings and reservations for meeting and conference destination planners

UPCOMING EPA CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS
AgSTAR is pleased to announce that the presentations for the AgSTAR
National Conference, held in Baltimore, Maryland in February, are now
available online at the AgSTAR website (www.epa.gov/agstar).

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


Testimony for Department of Transportation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


NIH News Release Update for March 19, 2009, 10:00 a.m.:

Experimental Vaccine Shows Promise in Preventing Cytomegalovirus Infection
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 08:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) — The Nation's Medical Research Agency — includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It is the primary federal agency for conducting and supporting basic, clinical and translational medical research, and it investigates the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.

The latest Metropolitan Area Employment and Unemployment news release
was issued by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Highlights are below.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Unemployment rates were higher in January than a year
earlier in 371 of the 372 metropolitan areas and unchanged
in 1 area. Among the 310 metropolitan areas for which
nonfarm payroll data were available in January 2009, 254
metropolitan areas recorded over-the-year employment
decreases, 55 reported gains, and 1 was unchanged.


Issue Number: REG-158747-06
Inside This Issue

REG-158747-06 provides notice of public hearing on a notice of proposed rulemaking relating to withholding under section 3402(t) of the Internal Revenue Code. The proposed regulations reflect changes in the law made by the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 that require Federal, State, and local government entities to withhold income tax when making payments to persons providing property or services. These proposed regulations provide guidance to assist the government entities in complying with section 3402(t). The regulations also provide certain guidance to persons receiving payments for property or services from government entities.


Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZone) for U.S. Department of Homeland Security

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Albuquerque Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Issue Number: TT-2009-54
Inside This Issue

Seven Things you Should Know When Selling Your Home
People who sell their home may be able to exclude the gain from their income. Here are seven things every homeowner should know if they sold, or plan to sell their house.
Amount of exclusion. When you have gain from the sale of your home, you may be able to exclude up to $250,000 of the gain from your income. For most taxpayers filing a joint return, the exclusion amount is $500,000.

Ownership test. To claim the exclusion you must have owned the home for at least two years during the five year period ending on the date of the sale.

Use test. You also must have lived in the house and used it as your main home for at least two years during the five year period ending on the date of the sale.

When not to report. If you are able to exclude all of the gain from the sale of your home, you do not need to report the sale on your federal income tax return.

Reporting taxable gain. If you have gain which cannot be excluded, it is taxable and must be reported on your tax return using Schedule D.

Deducting a loss. You cannot deduct a loss from the sale of your home.

Rules for multiple homes. If you have more than one home, you may only exclude gain from the sale of your main home and must pay tax on the gain resulting from the sale of any other home. Your main home is generally the one you live in most of the time.

For more information see IRS Publication 523, Selling Your Home, available at IRS.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Links:
Publication 523, Selling Your Home (PDF 194K)
Schedule D, Capital Gains and Losses (PDF 136K)
Tax Topic 701 — Sale of Your Home


Administration Launches New Consumer Website For Responsible Homeowners Seeking Relief
Wisconsin Governor's Proposal Would Track Racial Bias in Traffic Stops
Posted: 18 Mar 2009 05:00 PM PDT
By Mike Johnson, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Mar. 19--Gov. Jim Doyle wants law enforcement in Wisconsin's 11 largest counties to compile data from traffic stops to determine whether racial profiling is occurring.
Attorney General Signals Shift in Marijuana Policy
Posted: 18 Mar 2009 05:00 PM PDT
By DEVLIN BARRETT
WASHINGTON - Attorney General Eric Holder signaled a change on medical marijuana policy Wednesday, saying federal agents will target marijuana distributors only when they violate both federal and state law.

Baltimore Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Revised Code of Conduct Adopted for Federal Judges
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 09:37:00 -0500
A federal judge testified before a congressional subcommittee about the federal courts' appropriations needs for fiscal year 2010, which will begin October 1, 2009.

Statement by FDIC Chairman Sheila Bair on Modernizing Bank Supervision and Regulation before the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs delivered on March 19, 2009

are available at the following link:
http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/speeches/chairman/spmar0319.html


Image of the Day Gallery: Free Flight Captured
Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:00:00 -0500
A blended wing body aircraft model used for testing in a wind tunnel at NASA's Langley Research Center now flies high at the Smithsonian National Air...


NRC to Provide Update on Decommissioning Work at Windsor, Conn., Site
Recently Added Fugitives on the U.S. Marshals Service Website, March 18, 2009
Wed, 18 Mar 2009 22:01:32 -0500
Eight new fugitives have been added to the Western District of Pennsylvania Website. If you have any information concerning these fugitives, please contact the Western Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force (WPA FTF) at: (412) 422-GRAB (4722) or (412) 644-6628.

Contact: Kevin M. Mukri
(202) 874-5770
Comptroller of the Currency Testifies on Financial Regulatory Reform
WASHINGTON — Comptroller of the Currency John C. Dugan testified today on reforming the country’s financial regulatory system before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.
Related Links:
Oral Statement (http://www.occ.gov/ftp/release/2009-24a.pdf)
Testimony (http://www.occ.gov/ftp/release/2009-24b.pdf)
Comptroller of the Currency John C. Dugan (http://www.occ.gov/dugan.htm)
###


Homeland Security Leadership Journal for U.S. Department of Homeland Security

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
"G6 plus 1" Meeting in Germany


Treasury Announces Auto Supplier Support Program

Military Medical Digest for Military Health System

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.


Springfield Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


VIDEO: President Obama’s Budget: A New Era of Responsibility

The Majority Leader's Office has created a video highlighting President Obama’s and Congressional Democrats’ commitment to a budget that shows real leadership and makes the tough, responsible choices necessary to address the challenges facing our nation while making critical investments in our future.



The video features President Obama and the following House Members (in order of appearance): Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-09), Rep. Peter Welch (VT), Rep. Allyson Schwartz (PA-13), Rep. Ron Kind (WI-3), Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-03), Rep. Joseph Crowley (NY-07), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Rep. Ron Klein (FL-22), Rep. Donna Edwards (MD-04), Rep. John Yarmuth (KY-03).

Click here to watch video

###


What's New and/or Federal Register Items on the Federal Transit Administration website

This information has recently been updated with: FTA Issues FR Notice of Funding Availability: Solicitation of Grant Applications for ARRA Tribal Transit Programs, and is now available.


National Center for Health Statistics Homepage, we wanted you to know we recently updated this page.

Congressional Information for TRICARE Communications

This information has recently been updated.
March 18, 2009
S. Ward Casscells, MD, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs testified on Military Personnel and Readiness.
For more information visit: http://www.tricare.mil/planning/congress/index.cfm


Pittsburgh Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Sacramento Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Inspector General Financial Assistance (Grants) Reports for U.S. Department of Homeland Security

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
DA-09-11 - West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management


Northwest Mountain Region Quarterly Newsletter for U.S. Federal Aviation Administration
Kathryn Vernon, Director, Western Terminal Operations, selected as Northwest Mountain Region Administrator - 03/18/2009

Omaha Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Atlanta Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Boston Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Genomics & Health Weekly Update for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Los Angeles Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


USBP in the News
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 11:26:02 -0500
For archived news releases, please visit CBP News Releases located under Newsroom.
NRC to Begin Special Inspection at Nuclear Fuel Services

The HOME Expiring Funds reports as of 03/17/09

are now posted on our Website at http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/affordablehousing/reports/expiringfunds.cfm


Statement by Arthur J. Murton, Director, Division of Insurance and Research, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation on Current Issues in Deposit Insurance before the Subcommittee on Financial Institutions, U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs delivered on March 19, 2009 are available at the following link:

http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/speeches/chairman/spmar1909_2.html

FDIC speeches, testimony, and other information are available on the Internet at www.fdic.gov, by subscription electronically (go to www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html) and may also be obtained through the FDIC's Public Information Center (877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200).


Hoops Tour for Kyrgyzstan Youth
Bureau of Public Affairs

Office of the Spokesman

Washington, DC

March 19, 2009


Denver Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Minneapolis Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Attorney Vacancies at the U.S. Department of Justice

This page has recently been updated with the following new vacancies:
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE U.S. TRUSTEE’S OFFICE -- HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY/GS-13 to GS-15
This position will be open until March 30, 2009.

ASSISTANT UNITED STATES ATTORNEY UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF OHIO VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT NUMBER: 09-SDOHAUSA-02
Applications must be received no later than March 24, 2009.


MMWR Press Summaries for CDC

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


NRC IN 2009-05 (ML090370785)
Federal Judiciary Seeks FY 2010 Funding
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 09:37:00 -0500
A federal judge testified before a congressional subcommittee about the federal courts' appropriations needs for fiscal year 2010, which will begin October 1, 2009.

HHS Names Federal Coordinating Council for Comparative Effectiveness Research
Recovery Act Allocates $1.1 Billion for Comparative Effectiveness Research. More...
You are subscribed to HHS.gov News for U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services.

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


NIOSH research on nanomaterials presented at the 2009 Society of Toxicology annual meeting

Read more and comment on the NIOSH Science Blog.

You are subscribed to NIOSH Science Blog for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


EPA Reports Toxic Releases to Air, Water and Land in Arkansas in 2007

(Dallas, Texas – March 19, 2009) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued its report of the most recent data available for the amount of toxic chemicals released into the environment in Arkansas by industrial and other facilities. The data made available today are for releases that took place during 2007. Since 1988, the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) has been released by EPA every year to help the public know more about the chemicals present in their local environment and track environmental trends over time.

“This annual report was created to provide American families with the information they need to make informed decisions about environmental issues affecting their neighborhoods,” said Larry Starfield, EPA Region 6 Acting Regional Administrator. “The TRI report also serves as a strong incentive for businesses to find innovative ways to reduce or prevent pollution.”

Arkansas facilities reported 43,809,072 pounds of toxic chemicals released into the environment in 2007, with 77 percent, or 33,854,004 pounds, released on site. On-site releases include chemicals released to the air, water and land at the facility. Chemicals that are transferred to other sites for disposal are not included in the on-site total.

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986, as well as the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, required EPA to establish the TRI. The TRI is an on-line, computerized database that contains toxic chemical release and other waste management information covering more than 650 chemicals and chemical categories. The information is collected from reports submitted to EPA and the states by manufacturing companies, coal and metal mines, electric utilities, hazardous waste treatment sites, chemical distributors and Federal facilities.

More than 22,000 facilities nationwide provide details on their releases of chemicals into the environment. Included in the report is a listing of individual states and the amounts of toxic chemicals releases into the environment within their borders. Individual cities and zip codes can also be selected from the TRI database and have releases within their confines broken out by type of chemical and quantity releases. The database provides a comprehensive overview of toxic chemical releases in the United States.

TRI 2007 Public Data Release: http://www.epa.gov/tri/tridata/tri07/index.htm

More information on TRI: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer/ and http://www.epa.gov/enviro/

State fact sheets are available at: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer/statefactsheet.htm

More information about activities in EPA Region 6: http://www.epa.gov/region6

The top ten facilities in Arkansas for total on-site and off-site releases of all chemicals (in pounds) are:

Name of Facility City Total Releases

Great Lakes Chemical – Central El Dorado 4,681,391
Nucor-Yamato Steel Co. Blytheville 4,113,443
Stratcor, Inc. Hot Springs 3,588,102
Nucor Steel – Arkansas Blytheville 3,083,050
Domtar Industries, Inc. – Ashdown Mill Ashdown 2,582,977
Evergreen Packaging Pine Bluff 2,261,086
Entergy Corp. – Independence Steam Electric Station Newark 2,105,301
Clean Harbors – El Dorado LLC El Dorado 1,800,302
Georgia-Pacific – Crossett Operations Crossett 1,629,935
River Valley Animal Foods Scranton 1,620,182

###
EPA Reports Toxic Releases to Air, Water and Land in Louisiana in 2007

(Dallas, Texas – March 19, 2009) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued its report of the most recent data available for the amount of toxic chemicals released into the environment in Louisiana by industrial and other facilities. The data made available today are for releases that took place during 2007. Since 1988, the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) has been released by EPA every year to help the public know more about the chemicals present in their local environment and track environmental trends over time.

“This annual report was created to provide American families with the information they need to make informed decisions about environmental issues affecting their neighborhoods,” said Larry Starfield, EPA Region 6 Acting Regional Administrator. “The TRI report also serves as a strong incentive for businesses to find innovative ways to reduce or prevent pollution.”

Louisiana facilities reported 130,440,759 pounds of toxic chemicals released into the environment in 2007, with 94 percent, or 122,678,727 pounds, released on site. On-site releases include chemicals released to the air, water and land at the facility. Chemicals that are transferred to other sites for disposal are not included in the on-site total.

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986, as well as the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, required EPA to establish the TRI. The TRI is an on-line, computerized database that contains toxic chemical release and other waste management information covering more than 650 chemicals and chemical categories. The information is collected from reports submitted to EPA and the states by manufacturing companies, coal and metal mines, electric utilities, hazardous waste treatment sites, chemical distributors and Federal facilities.

More than 22,000 facilities nationwide provide details on their releases of chemicals into the environment. Included in the report is a listing of individual states and the amounts of toxic chemicals releases into the environment within their borders. Individual cities and zip codes can also be selected from the TRI database and have releases within their confines broken out by type of chemical and quantity releases. The database provides a comprehensive overview of toxic chemical releases in the United States.

TRI 2007 Public Data Release: http://www.epa.gov/tri/tridata/tri07/index.htm

More information on TRI: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer/ and http://www.epa.gov/enviro/

State fact sheets are available at: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer/statefactsheet.htm

More information about activities in EPA Region 6: http://www.epa.gov/region6

The top ten facilities in Louisiana for total on-site and off-site release of all chemicals (in pounds) are:

Name of Facility City Total Releases

Monsanto – Luling Luling 16,390,040
Cytec Industries, Inc. – Fortier Plant Westwego 11,241,817
International Paper Co. – Mansfield Plant Mansfield 7,860,707
CF Industries, Inc. Donaldsonville 7,653,896
Angus Chemical Co. Sterlington 6,293,253
ExxonMobil Refining & Supply – Baton Rouge Refinery Baton Rouge 5,673,836
Rubicon LLC Geismer 4,748,817
Big Cajun 2 New Roads 4,357,140
Dow Chemical Co. – Plaquemine Plaquemine 4,053,911
Louisiana Pigment Co. LP Westlake 3,010,729

###
EPA Reports Toxic Releases to Air, Water and Land in Oklahoma in 2007

(Dallas, Texas – March 19, 2009) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued its report of the most recent data available for the amount of toxic chemicals released into the environment in Oklahoma by industrial and other facilities. The data made available today are for releases that took place during 2007. Since 1988, the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) has been released by EPA every year to help the public know more about the chemicals present in their local environment and track environmental trends over time.

“This annual report was created to provide American families with the information they need to make informed decisions about environmental issues affecting their neighborhoods,” said Larry Starfield, EPA Region 6 Acting Regional Administrator. “The TRI report also serves as a strong incentive for businesses to find innovative ways to reduce or prevent pollution.”

Oklahoma facilities reported 34,080,993 pounds of toxic chemicals released into the environment in 2007, with 79 percent, or 27,092,525 pounds, released on site. On-site releases include chemicals released to the air, water and land at the facility. Chemicals that are transferred to other sites for disposal are not included in the on-site total.

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986, as well as the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, required EPA to establish the TRI. The TRI is an on-line, computerized database that contains toxic chemical release and other waste management information covering more than 650 chemicals and chemical categories. The information is collected from reports submitted to EPA and the states by manufacturing companies, coal and metal mines, electric utilities, hazardous waste treatment sites, chemical distributors and Federal facilities.

More than 22,000 facilities nationwide provide details on their releases of chemicals into the environment. Included in the report is a listing of individual states and the amounts of toxic chemicals releases into the environment within their borders. Individual cities and zip codes can also be selected from the TRI database and have releases within their confines broken out by type of chemical and quantity releases. The database provides a comprehensive overview of toxic chemical releases in the United States.

TRI 2007 Public Data Release: http://www.epa.gov/tri/tridata/tri07/index.htm

More information on TRI: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer/ and http://www.epa.gov/enviro/

State fact sheets are available at: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer/statefactsheet.htm

More information about activities in EPA Region 6: http://www.epa.gov/region6

The top ten facilities in Oklahoma for total on-site and off-site releases of all chemicals (in pounds) are:

Name of Facility City Total Releases

Perma-Fix Environmental Services Tulsa 3,501,500
Weyerhaeuser Co. Valliant 3,406,964
Koch Nitrogen Co. Enid 3,328,710
Clean Harbors Lone Mountain LLC – Lone Mountain Waynoka 3,137,554
Terra Nitrogen LP – Verdigris Plant Claremore 2,701,000
Ventura Refining & Transmission Thomas 2,068,323
Solae, Pryor Pryor 1,515,347
Baker Petrolite Barnsdall 1,016,000
American Electric Power – Northeastern Plant Oologah 945,903
Grand River Dam Authority – Coal Fired Complex Chouteau 879,867

###
NRC to Hold Meeting on March 26 in Plymouth, Mass., to Discuss Annual Assessment of Performance for Pilgrim Nuclear Plant
TRICARE Beneficiary Bulletin 07
03/19/09 4 min 57 sec
DS Login - Electronic Fees - Guard/Reserve Deductibles
To download or listen to the podcast visit: http://www.tricare.mil/pressroom/press_audio.aspx

News Releases for FinCEN Updates

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
FinCEN Selects ATF Official to Head Analysis Division (03/19/2009)


Mexico and the Merida Initiative
Roberta S. Jacobson

Deputy Assistant Secretary

Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs

Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs

Washington, DC

March 18, 2009


DOE Fossil Energy NEWSALERT

Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Successfully Powers Truck Cab and Sleeper in DOE-Sponsored Test
-----------------------------

In a test sponsored by the Department of Energy,
a Delphi auxiliary power unit using a solid oxide
fuel cell successfully operated the electrical
system and air conditioning of a Peterbilt Model
386 truck while simulating idling conditions for
ten hours. For more details, link to the Energy
Department's Fossil Energy Web site at:

http://www.fossil.energy.gov


Attorney General Issues New FOIA Guidelines to Favor Disclosure and Transparency
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 09:00:00 -0500
"By restoring the presumption of disclosure that is at the heart of the Freedom of Information Act, we are making a critical change that will restore the public's ability to access information in a timely manner," said Attorney General Holder. "The American people have the right to information about their government's activities, and these new guidelines will ensure they are able to obtain that information under principles of openness and transparency."
Cotton-on-Call for CFTC.gov
The Cotton On-Call Report # 11 is now available.
See previous weeks in Historical Cotton On-Call Reports.

Guns, Drugs and Violence: The Merida Initiative and the Challenge in Mexico
David T. Johnson

Assistant Secretary of State

Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs

Statement before the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere of the House Foreign Affairs Committee

Washington, DC

March 18, 2009


Pandemic Influenza:

Government Accountability Office. Influenza Pandemic: Sustaining Focus on the Nation’s Planning and Preparedness Efforts (Report to the Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives). Washington, DC: GAO-09-334, February 2009, 58 pages. Accessed at: http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09334.pdf
DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano Interview:

Spiegel Online International. “Interview With Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano,” March 16, 2009. Accessed at: http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/0,1518,613330,00.html

U.S. Department of State : Daily Press Briefing - March 19
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 14:44:45 -0500
Robert Wood

Acting Department Spokesman
Daily Press Briefing

March 19, 2009


U.S. Department of State Background Notes : Romania (03/09)
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 14:23:04 -0500

The Recovery Act and Your Small Business
Each month, SBA produces "Small Business VOICE" -- an online chat discussion between small busienss owners and experts throughout government and industry.
SBA's Eric Zarnikow, Associate Administrator for the Office of Capital Access, answers questions from small business owners about the economic stimulus and surviving the credit crunch. Read more... Finding and

Buying the Right Insurance Policy
When it comes to finding and buying insurance that meets your particular business need and risk, you need to be well informed. Here are five tips, courtesy of the government’s Business.gov site, that can help you find the right insurance for your particular small business structure, business activity, and risk level. Read more..

Visit the Discussion Boards:
Start & Register a Business
Self-Employed & Home-Based Business
Loans, Grants & Taxes

Government Contracting
Other Business Issues


CertAlerts page on the FAA website
We recently added the following item(s)

Certalert 09-06: Closing Active Runway for FOD Checks Increases Safe Operations


United States Department of Defense Image Gallery

EPA Issues Latest Information on Toxic Chemical Releases
Contact: Brook Madrone/EPA Seattle, (206) 553-4016, madrone.brook@epa.gov;

Tony Brown/EPA Public Affairs, (206) 553-1203, brown.anthony@epa.gov

Today, EPA released the latest Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) Data nationally (for reporting Year 2007). Following the brief Region 10 summary paragraph please find attached the national press release and data release information pertinent to Region 10 states including a State TRI release summary table, a State fact sheet, a Region 10 summary table, and relevant websites.

TRI releases for Region 10 as a whole decreased in 2007. Alaska, Oregon & Washington facilities all reported decreased Total On-Site & Off-Site releases. Idaho Total On-Site & Off-Site releases increased by 1.7 percent, while Idaho facility Surface Water discharges decreased by 6.7 percent. And, although Alaska's Red Dog Mine reported a decrease in total TRI releases compared to 2006, it remains the largest releaser of TRI reportable toxics in the country (primarily zinc & lead compounds in on-site tailings impoundments and waste rock).
Please call our Regional TRI Manager, Brook Madrone (206) 553-4016 with specific questions.
Read EPA's National Press Release

More information on the TRI reporting change: http://www.epa.gov/tri
TRI 2007 Public Data Release:
http://www.epa.gov/tri/tridata/tri07/index.htm
TRI Explorer tool:
http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer
###


March 31st Deadline Approaching For Disaster Assistance Registration And SBA Loan Packets
Tue, 17 Mar 2009 07:26:13 -0500
OLYMPIA, Wash. -- The deadline to apply for disaster assistance and to complete the SBA loan packets is fast approaching. It is Tuesday, March 31, 2009. Washington residents affected by the January 6-16, 2009, winter storm, landslides, mudslides, and flooding are urged to register for assistance and to complete the loan application from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), if one is sent to them. Officials of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Washington Emergency Management Division (WEMD), and the SBA stress that the SBA loan application must be completed for consideration for various other types of assistance programs.
It's Flood Season Again In The River State - Be Prepared
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 13:33:50 -0500
FRANKFORT, Ky. -- Though Kentucky has taken great strides in reducing its flood damages over the years, Mother Nature can never be completely tamed. As spring brings a new flood season, Kentuckians should be prepared for the unexpected.

C-SPAN Daily Alert
Programming Information for Thurs. 3/19 - Fri. 3/20, 2009
**********************************************************************

C-SPAN Highlights

Tonight:
* U.S. House Floor Debate on Corporate Bonuses Tax Bill (8pm)
* House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) Weekly Legislative Briefing (9pm)
* Senate Republicans News Conference on AIG Corporate Bonuses (9:20pm)

Tomorrow:
* U.S. House: Not In Session
* House Hearing on Financial Fraud Laws Enforcement (10am) - LIVE

**********************************************************************
C-SPAN2 Highlights

Tonight:
* House Oversight Cmte. Hearing on Federal Economic Stimulus Oversight (8pm)
* Pres. Obama & Labor Sec. Solis Town Hall Meeting (9:50pm)
* House Energy Cmte. Hearing on the Salmonella Outbreak (10:50pm)

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

Tonight:
* House Hearing on Fiscal Year 2010 Veterans Programs Budget Proposals (10pm)

Tomorrow:
* Senate Hearing on Fiscal Year 2010 Health Care Budget Proposals (7:30am)

**********************************************************************
C-SPAN Radio Highlights

Tonight:
* Supreme Court Oral Argument (10pm)

Tomorrow:
* Washington Journal (7am) - LIVE
* House Hearing on Financial Fraud Laws Enforcement (10am) - LIVE
**********************************************************************
Politics Highlights

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

* Newspaper Articles & Viewer Calls
* Rep. John Campbell (R-CA)
* Jared Bernstein, Chief Economic Advisor to V.P. Biden
* Discussion on U.S.-Mexican Border Issues
**********************************************************************
C-SPAN Capitol Spotlight

* More than a dozen companies that received federal bailout funds owe some $220 million in unpaid taxes, a senior House lawmaker said Thursday. House Ways and Means Oversight Subcommittee Chairman John Lewis...- Full Story at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/

* How many schools in the NCAA women's basketball tourney are in state capitals? - Answer at www.c-span.org/capitolspotlight/


EPA issues latest information on toxic chemical releases in Illinois, Wisconsin, Ohio, Minnesota
(Chicago, Ill. - March 19, 2009) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is making available the most recent reporting on the amount of toxic chemicals released in Illinois and the U.S.
Illinois-specific data on facilities and releases to air, land and water can be found by accessing the state fact sheet at: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer/statefactsheet.htm
Additional information on releases on zip code, county and facility can be found using the TRI explorer tool at: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer
EPA issues latest information on toxic chemical releases in Michigan
(Chicago, Ill. - March 19, 2009) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is making available the most recent reporting on the amount of toxic chemicals released in Michigan and the U.S.
Michigan-specific data on facilities and releases to air, land and water can be found by accessing the state fact sheet at: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer/statefactsheet.htm
Additional information on releases on zip code, county and facility can be found using the TRI explorer tool at: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer
EPA issues latest information on toxic chemical releases in Indiana
(Chicago, Ill. - March 19, 2009) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is making available the most recent reporting on the amount of toxic chemicals released in Indiana and the U.S.
Indiana-specific data on facilities and releases to air, land and water can be found by accessing the state fact sheet at: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer/statefactsheet.htm
Additional information on releases on zip code, county and facility can be found using the TRI explorer tool at: http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer
Corps of Engineers Commander-Afghanistan to Brief Live
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:45:00 -0500

Contact: Katie Grant
202-225-3130For Immediate Release
March 19, 2009

Hoyer: House Moves to Reclaim AIG Bonuses

House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after the House passed legislation to take back bonuses given to individuals at companies receiving government assistance:

“In a crisis that has repeatedly shaken Americans’ faith in the most powerful financial institutions, the sordid AIG bonuses stand out. They crystallize the greed at the source of this crisis. Many of their beneficiaries join a long line of executives who feel entitled to personal enrichment, regardless of the performance of their companies and regardless of their destruction of others’ wealth. Among the recipients of these bonuses are executives who played a key role in bringing our economy to its sorry state—and their willingness to accept rewards for failure speaks poorly of their character.

“After its collapse, the federal government acquired an 80% stake in AIG—which means that these bonuses were largely paid for by average taxpayers, the same Americans who are struggling to hold on to their jobs and homes. Democrats will not allow that money to be wasted, especially at a time when all of our efforts are needed to turn this recession around and stabilize our financial markets. So we are taking every legal step to reclaim the money. The bill that has just passed the House is a first step to doing so, and more efforts can be expected in the days to come, both from Congress and the Obama Administration.

“I hope Republicans will provide constructive help in recovering the bonuses. But my expectations are not high. Republicans have repeatedly defended unchecked executive pay, and I am disappointed that so many in their conference voted to reject today’s bill and keep the bonuses in the hands of AIG executives. Both their past statements and their actions today make clear that Republican ‘outrage’ is opportunistic and manufactured.”

###


NATO-ISAF Regional Command South Commander to Brief Live From Afghanistan
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:56:00 -0500

Becoming a Street Vendor Where Do I Start?
You probably have seen or even purchased something from a street vender or peddler at some point – whether on vacation or in your own town. Consider for a moment self-employment and the opportunity to work outdoors with a schedule that is always convenient for you. Sounds perfect, right? Becoming a street vendor may seem like a relatively easy goal to accomplish but it involves diligence and patience to acquire the proper licenses and permits and operate it as a legal business. Read more ...


DoD Contracts for March 19, 2009
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:01:00 -0500
STS-119 MCC Status Report #08
Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:00:00 -0500
A big power boost for the International Space Station comes today with the installation of the last set of U.S. solar arrays during the first spacewalk of this flight of space shuttle Discovery.
STS-119 MCC Status Report #09
Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:00:00 -0500
The International Space Station's 335-foot-long truss, or backbone, is complete after astronauts aboard space shuttle Discovery and the station teamed with Mission Control to install the final 45-foot-long segment to the farthest starboard point of the station.

Tax Division Vacancies for U.S. Department of Justice

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Final Hardware For Test Of NASA's New Rocket Arrives In Florida
Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:00:00 -0500
The Ares I-X rocket arrived Thursday at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
NRC to Conduct Open House on March 25 Regarding Annual Assessment of Performance for R.E. Ginna Nuclear Plant
Online Poll for NASA's Mars Rover Naming Contest Opens March 23
Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:00:00 -0500
NASA will post online nine names that are finalists for the agency's Mars Science Laboratory mission and invite the public to vote for its favorite. The non-binding poll to help NASA select a name opens online Monday, March 23, and will accept votes through March 29.
Atomic Safety & Licensing Boards to Hold Yucca Mountain Pre-Hearing Sessions in Las Vegas, March 31 – April 2
Third Defendant Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering Scheme Involving Bribes for Contracts at Kuwait Army Base
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 09:00:00 -0500
The sister of a U.S. Army officer has pleaded guilty for her participation in a money-laundering scheme related to bribes paid for contracts awarded in support of the Iraq war. Carolyn Blake, of Sunnyvale, Texas, pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering conspiracy after accepting more than $3 million in bribe proceeds on behalf of her brother, Major John Cockerham.

Eligible Foreign Establishments for USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service

The Eligible Foreign Establishments lists for Canada and Chile have been revised. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Export Information for USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service

The Eligible Plant List for Russia (Poultry) has been revised. This information has recently been updated.
You may view a copy of the updated information.


Export Requirements for Meat & Poultry Products for USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service

The export requirements for Canada have been revised. This information has recently been updated.
You may view a copy of the updated information.


Remarks With South African Foreign Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma
Hillary Rodham Clinton

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

March 19, 2009


Today in the Department of Defense, 3/20/2009
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:34:00 -0500

International Conference on Afghanistan: Press Credentialing Procedures
Bureau of Public Affairs

Office of the Spokesman

Washington, DC

March 19, 2009


ticker timeline 00:01 Eastern Time Friday March 20, 2009

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ETA - Advisories - Training and Employment Guidance Letters (TEGL) for United States Department of Labor

This information has recently been updated.
TEGL 16-08 -- Guidance for Implementation of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Funding in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 as required by Subtitle D, Section 166, Native American Programs has been added to the database and is now available at http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?DOCN=2731.


Former Exec of Olympia Mortgage Corp. Sentenced for Defrauding Fannie Mae (FNMA)
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:25:17 -0500
Leib Pinter, a former executive of Olympia Mortgage Corp., was sentenced in New York to 97 months in prison for orchestrating a scheme to defraud Fannie Mae in connection with mortgage loans which Fannie Mae owned but were refinanced through Olympia.

FBI In the News

This information has recently been updated, and is now available.


Nobody Fooled by Republicans’ About-Face on Executive Pay After Condemning Limits on Executive Earnings, Republican Leaders Attempt to Fabricate and rewrite their Record

This week, Republican leaders couldn’t jump quickly enough to decry bonuses for AIG employees and blame everyone but themselves for allowing it to happen. Their outrage, however, marks a significant turnaround for a party that has been fundamentally opposed to restrictions on executive pay for companies receiving taxpayer funds, condemning them as recently as last month. Now, Republican leaders are going so far as to claim that they have led the fight to protect taxpayers from excessive executive compensation. The reality couldn’t be further from the truth.

Click here to see how Republicans are attempting to rewrite history on opposition to executive pay limits.

###


What's the difference between an equinox and a solstice?
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:10:50 -0500
An equinox is when the sun is directly over the Earth's equator, and a solstice is when the Earth's axial tilt is either closest or furthest from the sun. Those days mark the first day of a season. Friday, March 20, 2009, is the vernal equinox -- the first day of spring. Visit USA.gov to learn more.
VACANCY: Information Technology Specialist (SYSADMIN), GS-2210-11/12 FEMA
Thu, 19 Mar 2009 11:42:02 -0500
DE-09-261-DBV2 (Closing Date: Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EDT)

FDIC Closes Sale of Indymac Federal Bank, Pasadena, California

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 19, 2009 Media Contact:
David Barr
Office: (202) 898-6992
Cell: (703) 622-4790
Email: dbarr@fdic.gov

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has completed the sale of IndyMac Federal Bank FSB, Pasadena, California, to OneWest Bank, FSB, a newly formed Pasadena, California-based federal savings bank organized by IMB HoldCo LLC. OneWest will assume all deposits of IndyMac Federal. IMB HoldCo signed a letter of intent with the FDIC on December 31, 2008, to purchase IndyMac Federal.
The 33 branches of IndyMac Federal will reopen as branches of OneWest tomorrow. Depositors of IndyMac Federal will automatically become depositors of OneWest. Deposits will continue to be insured by the FDIC, so there is no need for customers to change their banking relationship to retain their deposit insurance coverage. Checks drawn on the bank will continue to be processed. Loan customers should continue to make their payments as usual.

As of January 31, 2009, IndyMac Federal had total assets of $23.5 billion and total deposits of $6.4 billion. OneWest has agreed to purchase all deposits and approximately $20.7 billion in assets at a discount of $4.7 billion. The FDIC will retain the remaining assets for later disposition.
FDIC and OneWest have entered into a loss share transaction on the single family residential portfolio. Under terms of the loss share agreement, OneWest will continue the FDIC's existing loan modification program.
Customers who have questions about the transaction can call the FDIC toll-free at 866-806-5919. The phone number will be operational this evening until 9:00 p.m. Pacific Time; on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time; on Sunday from noon until 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time; and thereafter from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time.

Interested parties can also visit the FDIC's website at http://www.fdic.gov/bank/individual/failed/IndyMac.html.

IndyMac Federal sustained losses of $2.6 billion in the fourth quarter 2008 due to deterioration in the real estate market. The total estimated loss to the Deposit Insurance Fund is $10.7 billion. No further payments on receivership claims for uninsured funds from former IndyMac Bank, F.S.B. will be distributed as a result of this transaction.
# # #


NASA Awards Contracts for Science Instruments on Solar Mission
Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:00:00 -0500
NASA has selected three teams to design and build science instruments for a proposed European-led solar mission. The instruments, with a total value of approximately $81 million, are part of NASA's Living with a Star Program.

ticker timeline 23:52 Eastern Time Thursday March 19, 2009

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