|
|
|
Sebelius
Congratulates New FDA Commissioner Peggy Hamburg
Mon, 18 May 2009 22:00:00 -0500
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today congratulated
new Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Dr. Margaret "Peggy"
Hamburg after her nomination was unanimously confirmed by the
United States Senate.
|
Sebelius
Addresses World Health Assembly Plenary Session
Mon, 18 May 2009 22:00:00 -0500
This morning, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius
addressed the World Health Assembly Plenary Session.
|
STS-125
MCC Status Report #15
Sun, 17 May 2009 23:00:00 -0500
|
STS-125
MCC Status Report #14
Sun, 17 May 2009 23:00:00 -0500
|
|
Organizing For America Listening Tour
comes to East Texas Thursday May 21!
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=84483191669
Luke Hayes, Texas state director for Organizing
For America (formerly Obama For America), will be in Longview
at Catfish Village at 7:00 PM Thursday May 21 as part of an OFA
listening tour.
--------------------
|
Webcast
Update on the CAHPS® Clinician & Group Survey, June 23
|
CJCS
ADM Michael Mullen
Mon, 18 May 2009 22:27:01 -0500
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff ADM Michael Mullen discusses
"The Future of Global Engagement" at the Brookings
Institution in Washington, DC.
|
May
19, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 16 pages - 163 KB)
|
|
Crime
Alerts for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Joint
Chiefs Chairman Lists Top Priorities
Tue, 19 May 2009 08:08:00 -0500
|
|
Los
Angeles Most Wanted for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
FSIS Directive 9020.1, Revision 1 - Meat,
Poultry, Egg Products, and Shell Eggs Refused Entry Into the
United States (U.S.)
You may view a copy of the updated
information.
|
|
Cms.hhs.gov-
Home Health, Hospice & DME Open Door Forums for Centers for
Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Cms.hhs.gov-
Hospital Open Door Forums for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services (CMS)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Cms.hhs.gov-
Physicians, Nurses and Allied Health Professionals Open Door
Forum for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This information has recently been updated, and
is now available.
|
|
US-CERT Current Activity
Microsoft Internet Information Services
(IIS) WebDAV Request Vulnerability
Original release date: May 18, 2009 at
8:54 am
Last revised: May 19, 2009 at 8:02 am
US-CERT is aware of public reports of a
vulnerability affecting
Microsoft Internet Information Services 6 (IIS6). Reports indicate
that this vulnerability is due to improper handling of unicode
tokens.
Exploitation of this vulnerability may allow a remote attacker
to
bypass authentication methods, allowing an attacker to upload
files to
a WebDAV folder or obtain sensitive information. NTFS file ACLs
will
generally prevent the anonymous internet user from writing to
an
unauthorized area. US-CERT is also aware of publicly available
exploit
code and active exploitation of this vulnerability.
US-CERT encourages users to implement the
following workaround to help
mitigate the risks until a patch or update is available from
the
vendor:
Disable WebDAV. Administrators who are
unable to disable WebDAV may be
able to mitigate some risk by configuring their IDS to refuse
external
HTTP requests containing "Translate: f" headers. Please
note that
disabling WebDAV may affect the functionality of other applications
such as SharePoint.
Microsoft has released Security Advisory
971492 to provide information
about this vulnerability. Additional information regarding this
vulnerability can be found in the Vulnerability Notes Database.
Relevant Url(s):
<http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/advisory/971492.mspx>
<http://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/787932>
====
This entry is available at
http://www.us-cert.gov/current/index.html#microsoft_internet_information_services_iis
|
Four
FEMA Recovery Centers Will Close And Two SBA Centers Open
Tue, 19 May 2009 07:38:36 -0500
|
Positioned
for Success
Mon, 18 May 2009 23:00:00 -0500
Astronaut John Grunsfeld, positioned on a foot restraint on the
end of Atlantis' remote manipulator system, participated in the
mission's fifth and final...
|
OCC Releases CRA Evaluations For 39 National
Banks
WASHINGTON — The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
(OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA)
performance evaluations that became public during the period
of April 15, 2009 through May 14, 2009. The list contains only
national banks and insured federal branches of foreign banks
that have received ratings. The possible ratings are outstanding,
satisfactory, needs to improve, and substantial noncompliance.
Of the 39 evaluations made public this month, 10 were outstanding,
28 were satisfactory, and one was needs to improve. None were
substantial noncompliance. Evaluations are available from links
on http://www.occ.treas.gov/cra/may09.htm.
The OCC’s World Wide Web site (http://www.occ.treas.gov)
also offers access to a searchable list of all public CRA evaluations
(http://www.occ.treas.gov/cra/crasrch.htm).
Copies of the actual evaluations may be obtained by submitting
a request electronically through the OCC's online FOIA site https://appsec.occ.gov/publicaccesslink/.
You can also obtain copies by writing to the Office of the Comptroller
of the Currency, Communications Division, Mailstop 2-3, Washington,
DC 20219. When requests are made electronically, remember to
include your postal mail address. Facsimile requests may be sent
to (202) 874-5274.
This month's list of ratings is attached.
###
|
CJCS
on Afghanistan
Mon, 18 May 2009 21:26:26 -0500
Admiral Michael Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,
talked about Afghanistan in remarks at the Brookings Institution
May 18.
|
|
Contact: Stephanie Lundberg
202-225-3130For Immediate Release
May 19, 2009
Hoyer Speaks at NEI's 2009 Nuclear Energy
Assembly
WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader
Steny H. Hoyer (MD) spoke at the Nuclear Energy Institute's 2009
Nuclear Energy Assembly this morning on the steps Congress is
currently taking to enact comprehensive energy reform, including
clean energy legislation and its nuclear provisions. Below are
his remarks as prepared for delivery:
“I want to welcome you to this conference. I want to applaud
your commitment to clean air, to lower emissions, and to the
nuclear technology that will help get us there. My message to
you is a simple one: nuclear energy is part of the solution.
“In all my years in Congress, we have
never had a better chance to transform America’s energy
strategy than the chance we’ll have in the next few months.
Along with healthcare reform, energy legislation may be the defining
work of the 111th Congress—so it is essential that we get
it right. I am glad that we continue to make progress on energy
legislation: Chairmen Waxman and Markey expect it to be reported
out of committee by Memorial Day, and we expect it on the House
floor before August recess.
“Of course, the part of that bill
that has attracted the most public attention has been its cap-and-trade
provisions. Cap-and-trade would be America’s first serious
effort to account for the cost of carbon emissions—and it
would be our most important response to global warming to date.
Of course, the questions surrounding an emissions cap—scientific,
economic, and political questions—are extremely complex.
But for more Americans every day, this is at base a moral question.
As conservative columnist Michael Gerson put it last week: ‘For
many Americans, especially the young, concern about carbon emissions
and climate disruption is no longer a conviction; it is a value.’
“For those concerned that the costs
of cap-and-trade are too high, I answer that two costs are higher.
First, the cost of inaction. The Congressional Budget Office
has estimated that warming of at least 7 degrees by 2100 will
cost us 3 percent of America’s real projected GDP. The longer
we wait to act on emissions, the more painful—and expensive—the
consequences will be. And second, the opportunity cost to our
economy of not seizing the growing global interest in the most
important emerging economic sector: new energy technology. Cap-and-trade
legislation will send a strong price signal to the private sector,
spurring innovation in renewable energy technology and the creation
of clean energy jobs.
“But there is more to the coming energy
legislation than cap-and-trade. There is a renewable electricity
standard of 20% by 2020, which allows up to 5% of the standard
to be met with energy efficiency, with flexibility for governors
to lower the standard further. New nuclear energy is excluded
from the baseline.
“And there is a provision especially
important to me: allowing companies to offset some of their emissions
by becoming stewards of the world’s forests. For all the
talk about fossil fuels, the destruction of the world’s
forests is one of the most dangerous—and most overlooked—causes
of global warming. That destruction is responsible for nearly
20% of global greenhouse gas emissions—more than all cars,
trucks, buses, and planes put together. That’s why the Waxman-Markey
draft includes both direct investments to prevent deforestation
and provisions that allow companies to claim some credit for
reducing emissions by funding the conservation of forests, in
America and throughout the world. By getting developing countries
to cap their forestry sectors, the legislation would provide
an important way for the developing world to buy into a system
of emissions reduction. And it would allow American businesses
a less expensive and more flexible way to curb emissions.
“And then there is the part of the
energy legislation nearest and dearest to you: the provisions
that affect nuclear energy. I want to make this very clear: as
important as cap-and-trade is, any policy with a realistic chance
of fighting emissions, protecting our economy, and breaking our
dependence on foreign sources of energy must be a policy that
invests in nuclear power. I know that that view is not shared
by everyone. However, I am working to ensure that the alternative
of nuclear power, which I believe is safe and carbon-neutral,
is very much a part of our energy policy.
“As you know, one of the biggest issues
facing the development of new nuclear power reactors is cost—a
new plant requires an investment of $5 billion to $7 billion
up front. I worked to make sure that the Title 17 loan guarantee
program, the federal mechanism the industry needs to develop
new plants, stayed funded at $18.5 billion in the Fiscal 2009
Omnibus. I also want to make sure that that program is workable,
so I have supported and contributed to the amendment that will
be offered by Chairman Emeritus Dingell at the markup of the
energy legislation.
“That amendment will add a nuclear
title to the legislation, so let me explain some of its components.
First, in changing the Title 17 loan guarantee program, the nuclear
title makes clear that a final term sheet from the Secretary
of Energy constitutes a binding commitment. That will allow energy
projects to obtain the non-federal financing they need with surety
that the federal government will proceed. The title also makes
a long-overdue change affecting labor, which the nuclear industry
should be commended for supporting: it adds Davis-Bacon prevailing
wage protections to the Title 17 program. When the federal government
helps fund new energy projects, it is only right that we ensure
that the workers building them get fair wages.
“The amendment offered by Chairman
Dingell would also create a new Clean Energy Deployment Administration
at DOE. This provision has broad support among Democrats of many
different political views and from many different regions, from
Chairman Dingell, to Rep. Inslee, to Majority Whip Clyburn, to
myself. The Clean Energy Deployment Administration, with members
appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, would
provide financing to a wide range of energy technologies, including
nuclear projects.
“The idea of a new funding mechanism
for energy projects, in the form of an Energy Bank, is being
debated in committee on both sides of Congress, and I’m
glad it is. But I also want to stress that it should not immediately
displace existing programs. For those who have waited patiently
in line for Title 17 loan guarantees, it would be unfair to now
go to the back of the line.
“Financing, though, is not the only
long-term nuclear issue. There’s the issue of industrial
infrastructure—making sure we have the steel forging capacity
to build nuclear plants as quickly as possible, with American
workers. There’s the issue of labor. Again, I want to commend
the nuclear industry for being so labor-friendly—not just
for arguing for the incorporation of Davis-Bacon wage protections
in Title 17, but also for building new plants under project labor
agreements. When it comes to providing good-paying jobs for American
workers, you are one of our economy’s leading sectors—and
I hope other utilities will follow your lead.
“Finally, of course, there’s
the issue of waste. Although waste storage at Yucca Mountain
is in serious doubt, the issue of nuclear waste is not going
away; it deserves serious, bicameral talks, and possibly even
a national commission. As long as nuclear power remains an important
part of our national energy portfolio, nuclear waste will be
a national issue—and the House will have an important role
to play in the debate.
“I told you when I began that nuclear
power is part of the solution. I say ‘part’ because
there is no one single solution to America’s energy needs.
We cannot, and we must not, put all of our energy eggs in a single
basket. What I believe in, and what I will continue to advocate,
is a policy of balance: from renewables to coal with carbon capture,
from investment in energy efficiency to investment in nuclear
energy. I will keep arguing that nuclear power has a vital place
in that mix, and that it deserves our government’s support.”
###
|
|
Sacramento
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
U.S.
Department of State Burma: Sanctions
Ian Kelly
Department Spokesman, Office of the Spokesman
Bureau of Public Affairs
Washington, DC
|
U.S.
Department of State Schedule for May 19, 2009
May 19, 2009
|
WHO
teleconference of the Ad hoc Policy Advisory Working Group on
Influenza A (H1N1) vaccines
|
|
San
Diego Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
U.S.,
Afghan Soldiers Add Security to Eastern Afghan Province
Tue, 19 May 2009 09:46:00 -0500
|
|
South
Dakota Weatherization Assistance Program for GovBenefits.gov
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
State
Crime Victims Compensation for GovBenefits.gov
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Kentucky
Weatherization Assistance Program for GovBenefits.gov
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Washington
Summer Food Service for GovBenefits.gov
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Washington
Special Milk Program for GovBenefits.gov
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
The latest Quarterly Data on Business
Employment Dynamics news release
(http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cewbd.pdf)
was issued today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Highlights
are below.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
From June 2008 to September 2008, the number
of job gains from opening
and expanding private sector establishments was 6.8 million,
and the
number of job losses from closing and contracting establishments
was
7.8 million.
|
|
(IRS)
Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief Program for GovBenefits.gov
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Disaster
Assistance for Older Americans for GovBenefits.gov
This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
|
|
Low
Income Home Energy Assistance for GovBenefits.gov
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
VACANCY:
Director, National Exercise Division, ES-301-00 FEMA
Tue, 19 May 2009 07:37:46 -0500
09-004-SES (Closing Date: Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EDT)
|
|
International
Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program (ITVERP) for GovBenefits.gov
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Kansas
City Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
NRC
Issues Final Environmental Impact Statement For Beaver Valley
Nuclear Power Plant License Renewal
|
|
Research
Events for U.S. Department of Homeland Security
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
New event added: Chemical Sector Security Summit, June 29-July
1, 2009
|
Neal
S. Wolin Confirmed as Deputy Secretary of the Treasury
May 19, 2009
TG-137
|
Chaplains
Reinforce More Than Faith
Tue, 19 May 2009 10:15:00 -0500
|
|
U.S.
Fire Administration Coffee Break Training Update 2009-20
Today’s Coffee Break Training, “Sprig
Supports” describes the requirements for supporting lengthy
upright branch lines.
Your Coffee Break can be downloaded from http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pdf/coffee-break/cb_fp_2009_20.pdf
Always refer to nationally recognized design and installation
standards, the product manufacturer or listing details for specific
information.
Please share this Coffee Break Training segment and others with
your peers. Previous Coffee Breaks may be found at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/nfa/coffee-break/
|
|
Burma:
Legal Proceedings against John Yettaw and Aung San Suu Kyi
Ian Kelly
Department Spokesman, Office of the Spokesman
Bureau of Public Affairs
Washington, DC
|
Admiral
Mullen on State Activities
Tue, 19 May 2009 10:03:01 -0500
CJCS Adm Michael Mullen addressed the Brookings Institute Monday
in Washington, DC. He told the audience the U.S. needs to groom
a more robust and active state department around the world.
|
Pakistan
Aid
Tue, 19 May 2009 09:21:15 -0500
The Defense Department is preparing to send humanitarian aid
to Pakistan.
|
FEMA
Teams Advise Shoppers On Repair, Protection
Tue, 19 May 2009 09:43:20 -0500
MOORHEAD, Minn. -- Teams of hazard mitigation specialists with
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are visiting Minnesota
stores, answering questions residents may have about protecting
their homes from future disaster damage.
|
Emergency
Recovery Center Opens In Grygla
Tue, 19 May 2009 09:41:38 -0500
MOORHEAD, Minn. -- A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) will
open in Grygla on Wednesday to assist those affected by flooding
in eastern Marshall County. The center is operated jointly by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Minnesota
Department of Public Safety Division of Homeland Security and
Emergency Management (HSEM) and the U.S. Small Business Administration
(SBA).
|
BTS Releases March Passenger Airline Employment
Data
U.S. scheduled passenger airlines employed 5.7 percent fewer
workers in March 2009 than in March 2008, the ninth consecutive
decrease in full-time equivalent employee (FTE) levels for the
scheduled passenger carriers from the same month of the previous
year, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), a part of
the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Research and Innovative
Technology Administration (RITA), reported today.
A news release and summary tables can be found at www.bts.gov.
More information on airline employment and data from previous
years are posted on the BTS website at http://www.bts.gov/programs/airline_information/number_of_employees/
Note: BTS press releases will no longer be provided through this
service. To receive notice of BTS releases, please visit http://www.dot.gov/affairs/listserve.htm
and subscribe to Research and Innovative Technology Administration
News.
-END-
|
NRC
Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards to Meet June 3-5 in
Rockville, MD.
|
Flag
Officer Assignments
Tue, 19 May 2009 11:47:00 -0500
|
Flag
Officer Announcement
Tue, 19 May 2009 12:02:00 -0500
|
|
What's
New at CBER for U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
List of Substantially
Equivalent 510(k) Devices - Update
Posted: 5/19/2009
List of Approved
NDA and ANDA Applications - Update
Posted: 5/19/2009
List of Premarket
Approval Information - Devices - Update
Posted: 5/19/2009
|
|
A Couple of Big Announcements from Young
Democrats of Georgia
Academy Applications Closing Soon: Apply
Now!
Sign-Up if You're Interested in Going to Chicago Aug 5-9
Nominations Still Open
From the Events Page
Academy Applications Closing Soon: Apply
Now!
If you're a Young Democrat who is interested
in someday running for office, helping another candidate run
for office, being on a Board of Directors for a company or nonprofit
agency, or you are just looking to beef-up your professional
experience, you should apply for the 2009-2010 Young Democrats
of Georgia Leadership Academy. Through this Academy, you will
engage in a variety of activities and collaborative projects
designed to teach and grow the skills you need to be a Democratic
professional.
There are no pre-qualifications for the
program other than your self-identifying as a Young Democrat,
be willing to be paired with a mentor who will help guide you
in your year-long program, and have a heart for service to Young
Democrats of Georgia. We hope you will take this opportunity
to apply for the 2009-2010 YDG Leadership Academy and take the
first step towards your future. Please visit http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.georgiayds.org
and click on the "Leadership Academy" link. The program
is open to any persons of ages 14-39 residing in the state of
Georgia. If you have questions about the program, please email
YDG's Executive Director, Tim Cairl, at tim@georgiayds.org.
Sign-Up if You're Interested in Going to
Chicago Aug 5-9
The Young Democrats of American National
Convention will be happening in Chicago August 5th through the
9th. This is our nations largest gathering of Young Democrats
chapters from across the globe, and it's an experience you DON'T
want to miss!
If you'd like to go, want to find out more
information, or would like information on how to raise funds
to help get Young Democrats to National Convention in Chicago,
go to http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.georgiayds.org and click
on the Chicago link. Sign-up today!
Nominations Still Open
Several nominations for appointments to
YDG offices are still open. If you have interest in gaining experience
and working with an awesome team of Young Democrats, look over
President Jane Bradshaw's previous email and follow the instructions.
Apply soon, your help is greatly appreciated and needed! link:
http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.georgiayds.org/blog/index.cfm?Fuseaction=ViewBlog&BlogTopicID=4777
From the Events Page (http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.georgiayds.org/events)
May 20 6PM - Atlanta - Fact, Fiction &
Politics with Georgia WIN List
http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.georgiayds.org/events/index.cfm?Fuseaction=events
May 21 12PM - Atlanta - Rally: Tell CVS
Atlanta Deserves Better
http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.georgiayds.org/events/index.cfm?Fuseaction=events
May 21 6PM - Atlanta - 2009 LGBT Community
Mayoral Candidate Forum and Meet-and-Greet
http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.georgiayds.org/events/index.cfm?Fuseaction=events
May 28 6PM - Atlanta - SEAT Action Nigh
at Sierra Club
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=83369132146
June 3 6:30PM - Atlanta - Atlanta Young
Democrats Business Mtg
http://www.facebook.com/l/;http://www.atlantayoungdems.org/
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
America
Needs Service, Petraeus Tells VMI Grads
Tue, 19 May 2009 12:39:00 -0500
|
|
U.S.
Department of State: Egypt's Role Against Global Terrorism
Ian Kelly
Department Spokesman, Office of the Spokesman
Bureau of Public Affairs
Washington, DC
|
Season
Approaches for Severe Weather Awareness
Tue, 19 May 2009 12:58:00 -0500
|
CDFI
Fund In The News Service Launched
May 19, 2009
[CDFI-2009-29]
|
|
Background
Briefing on U.S. Humanitarian Assistance to Pakistan
Bureau of Public Affairs
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
May 19, 2009
|
U.S.
Renews Focus on Middle East Peace Process
As President Barack Obama initiates a weeks-long focus on the
Middle East, USIP works to support the peace process through
research, dialogue, education and the arts. USIP recently hosted
the Apple Hill Chamber Players to demonstrate how music can be
a tool for conflict resolution in the region.
|
|
Seattle
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Military
Medical Digest for Military Health System
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
U.S.
Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr. Remarks to Columbia College
Commencement
Tue, 19 May 2009 09:00:00 -0500
|
Marines
Deploy
Tue, 19 May 2009 09:36:36 -0500
Nearly 300 Marines left Camp Lejeune May 18, headed for Afghanistan.
|
|
Portland
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Phoenix
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
ACE
on the Road Event Schedule
Tue, 19 May 2009 11:33:30 -0500
|
|
Pending Amendments in Azerbaijan Concern
USCIRF
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Commission
on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is concerned that
Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliev will sign into law a
series of restrictive amendments negatively affecting religious
freedom. Amendments to the religion law, as well as the criminal
and administrative offenses codes, were passed by Azerbaijan’s
parliament in speed and secrecy on May 8. Reportedly, they contain
numerous provisions that may violate Azerbaijan’s international
legal commitments on freedom of religion or belief.
The parliament was scheduled to send these amendments to the
president by May 18. Upon receipt, the president has 56 days
to consider signing them into law, according to the non-governmental
organization Forum 18. If signed, these vaguely-worded provisions
will result in increased government control over legitimate religious
activities in Azerbaijan.
The areas of concern include:
the basis for possible bans on religious
organizations;
a likely prohibition on conscientious objection to military service;
denial of legal status to unregistered religious organizations
as well as the requirement that registered religious communities
re-register;
the imposition of numerous vague registration requirements, including
doctrinal and other tests left to the discretion of state officials;
religious activity – and even the sale of religious literature
– restricted to officially approved premises; and
religious communities required to receive state permission in
order to engage in the religious education of children or adults.
Moreover, the country’s criminal and administrative codes
are to be amended so as to increase penalties for those whom
the courts have found guilty of alleged violations of the religion
law.
“If enacted, the future for freedom
of religion or belief in Azerbaijan looks bleak,” said Michael
Cromartie, Vice Chair of USCIRF, an independent U.S. government
commission that monitors religious freedom worldwide. “The
passage of these restrictive amendments could have a severe impact
on religious freedom in Azerbaijan, as it would potentially criminalize
internationally protected religious activity. As he considers
whether to sign these amendments into law, President Aliev should
consider the damage to Azerbaijan’s international reputation
of religious tolerance and honor the country’s international
commitments to respect freedom of religion or belief.”
Mr. Cromartie noted that President Aliev’s
decision on whether to give these numerous restrictive amendments
the force of law will not pass unnoticed. He called on the Obama
administration to raise these issues.
Azerbaijan is a signatory of the U.N. International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Article 18 of
the ICCPR provides for religious freedom. In addition, Azerbaijan
is a member of the Council of Europe as well as the 56-state
Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) which
has additional religious freedom commitments.
In addition, the Commission is concerned about some other policies
of the government of Azerbaijan.
Islam, Russian Orthodoxy, and Judaism are
officially viewed as “traditional” by the government
and their official organizations reportedly receive preferential
treatment. These religions, particularly Islam, nevertheless,
are subject to government control and all religious literature
is subject to state censorship. Under the current religion law,
all Muslim communities are required to belong to the state-linked
Caucasus Muslim Board. Several Muslim leaders, including Imam
Kazim Aliev and Ilgar Ibrahimoglu Allahverdiev, have been subject
to official harassment or court hearings without due process.
Members of various minority religious communities
also have faced obstacles in recent years. Two Baptist pastors,
Zaur Balaev and Hamid Shabanov, have been imprisoned reportedly
on false charges; few Baptist churches have been registered in
Azerbaijan. Georgian Orthodox believers in north-west Azerbaijan
also face major restrictions at the hands of local authorities.
Jehovah’s Witnesses have been subjected to police raids
and other forms of harassment in various parts of the country.
USCIRF is a bipartisan Federal Commission,
whose Commissioners are appointed by the President of the United
States and the Senate and House of Representatives.
To interview a USCIRF Commissioner contact
Tom Carter, at tcarter@uscirf.gov or 202-538-2044.
|
Atlantis'
Window on the World
Mon, 18 May 2009 23:00:00 -0500
Solar panels on the Hubble Space Telescope make for unique window
shades in this scene photographed from the flight deck of the
Earth-orbiting space shuttle...
|
Health
and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius Addresses World
Health Assembly Plenary Session
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Sacramento
Top Stories for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
U.S.
Department of State Humanitarian Aid to Pakistan
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
James S. Brady Press Briefing Room
Washington, DC
May 19, 2009
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United
States Department of Defense Image Gallery
|
Secretary Chu to Focus on Opportunities
for Global Cooperation on Energy, Economic and Climate Challenges
During 6-Day European Trip
Will Lead U.S. Delegation to G-8 Energy Ministers Meeting in
Rome and Attend Nobel Laureates Symposium in London
Washington, DC – The Department of Energy announced today
that Energy Secretary Steven Chu will lead the U.S. delegation
to the Group of 8 (G8) Energy Ministers’ Meeting in Rome
from May 23-25. Secretary Chu will meet with top energy leaders
from around the world to address global energy security and climate
change challenges.
During the meeting, the Energy Ministers will discuss new clean
energy and energy efficiency technologies, ways to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions, and steps countries can take to grow their economies.
The program will also address needed energy investments in security,
sustainable development and global poverty alleviation.
Following his trip to Rome, Secretary Chu will travel to the
United Kingdom from May 26-28 to participate in the St. James’s
Palace Nobel Laureate Symposium, organized by the University
of Cambridge Programme for Sustainable Leadership. The Symposium,
hosted at St. James's Palace and The Royal Society, will provide
a unique opportunity for Nobel Laureates from across the disciplines
to gather with Secretary Chu, The Prince of Wales, and international
experts to address the climate crisis and the economic and development
challenges facing the global community.
The G8 Energy Ministers’ Meeting will be attended by the
G8 member countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia,
the United Kingdom and the U.S., plus the European Commission),
along with emerging economies such as Brazil, China, Egypt, India,
Saudi Arabia, and South Africa.
Journalists, photographers and camera crews can request credentials
by visiting www.g8energy2009.it and completing the registration
form under "Media." Application forms for accreditation
must be in by TODAY, Tuesday, May 19, 2009.
For media questions and credentials to attend the St. James's
Palace Nobel Laureate Symposium, please contact Genevieve Maul
with the University of Cambridge at gm349@admin.cam.ac.uk, +44
(0) 1223 332300, or +44 (0) 7774 017464.
Further trip details will be announced soon.
###
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Pentagon
Press Briefing
Tue, 19 May 2009 14:46:27 -0500
Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell speaks with reporters
at the Pentagon.
|
IED
Training Standardized
Tue, 19 May 2009 10:38:37 -0500
IED Defeat Training is now a required part of training for all
troops heading down range.
|
Pakistan
Aid Package
Tue, 19 May 2009 14:32:25 -0500
One hundred and ten million dollars in humanitarian aid from
the Defense Department and the Department of State will be delivered
to refugees in Pakistan.
|
Air
Force Budget
Tue, 19 May 2009 14:27:13 -0500
Lessons learned by America's Air Force in Afghanistan and Iraq
were a big part of the Air Force's annual review and recommendations
for the proposed 2010 defense budget.
|
New
Lighter Body Armor
Tue, 19 May 2009 10:41:18 -0500
Troops at Yuma, AZ, are currently testing a new, lighter body
armor that consists of removable pieces that make it adjustable
for different missions.
|
|
Current
Funding Opportunities from the National Institute of Justice
for Office of Justice Programs
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Defense
Department Spokesman Cites Irony in Iranian Charge
Tue, 19 May 2009 14:29:00 -0500
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|
Selected
New Postings on U.S. Department of Justice Web sites
This page has recently been updated with
the following new items:
USDOJ
FY 2010 Exhibit 300s (5/19/09)
Tax Settlement Reference Manual (5/19/09)
|
U.S.
Approves of Pakistan Fight Against Taliban, Pentagon Spokesman
Says
Tue, 19 May 2009 15:07:00 -0500
|
|
AT
Notice FAAO JO 7210.3 for U.S. Federal Aviation Administration
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Press
Releases for TTB.gov
We have recently updated this information
to announce the TTB Expo, and is now available.
|
|
TTB.gov
Homepage for TTB.gov
We have recently updated this information
to announce the second industry expo, and is now available.
|
|
Democrats Making Progress for Americans
Over the past five months, Congress has
sent important legislation to the President’s desk and passed
numerous others through the House. These measures are already
improving the lives of millions of Americans and helping our
nation through this economic crisis. As we address the serious
challenges of today, President Obama and Democrats are committed
to laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and creating
jobs, building a path to energy independence, reforming health
care to help Americans cope with rising costs, and reforming
and investing in education.
Click
here to read more about Democratic accomplishments in the 111th
Congress.
###
|
Around
the Services
Tue, 19 May 2009 15:02:39 -0500
Housing help is on the way for military homeowners. Plus, we're
learning more about the confirmation hearings for the team tapped
to lead the Afghan war.
|
U.S.
Pledges More than $100 Million in Relief to Pakistan
Tue, 19 May 2009 15:48:00 -0500
|
FEMA
Ineligibility Letter May Not Be The Last Word
Tue, 19 May 2009 14:41:04 -0500
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- People who have applied for federal disaster
assistance should not despair if the first response they receive
from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is a letter
rejecting the application.
|
|
US
DOT Secretary's Blog - Welcome to the Fast Lane, from the US
Department of Transportation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Leadership
Updates for U.S. Department of Homeland Security
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
Assistant Secretary, United States Immigration
and Customs Enforcement (ICE), John T. Morton
Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency, W. Craig
Fugate
|
|
U.S.
Department of State Remarks at the Global Press Conference
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Foreign Press Center
Washington, DC
May 19, 2009
|
UN,
WHO heads meet vaccine manufacturers
19 MAY 2009 | GENEVA -- WHO Director-General Dr Margaret Chan
and United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met with over
30 vaccine manufacturers from developing and developed countries
at WHO headquarters today.
|
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. A new
speech, AVS
Awards Ceremony, “Celebrating Excellence”, is now
available.
|
|
New
York Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Houston
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Omaha
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Miami
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Dallas
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Baltimore
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
W.
Craig Fugate is Sworn-In as FEMA's New Administrator
Tue, 19 May 2009 15:53:55 -0500
In the company of family and FEMA employees, W. Craig Fugate
was sworn-in as the new FEMA Administrator by DHS Secretary Janet
Napolitano on Wednesday, May 19, 2009.
|
Secretary
Napolitano And Administrator Fugate Brief Governors, Officials
From Hurricane-Prone States
Tue, 19 May 2009 15:48:43 -0500
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Following a ceremony today in which U.S.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano
swore in Craig Fugate as Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) Administrator, the two participated in a video teleconference
briefing with governors and emergency management officials representing
more than a dozen hurricane-prone states to discuss hurricane
preparedness efforts - in advance of the June 1 official start
of the 2009 hurricane season.
|
Newark
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
|
Coastal
Barrier Resources System Digital Mapping Pilot Project
Coastal Barrier Resources System Digital Mapping Pilot Project
report and draft maps are now available for public comment. For
more information on the pilot project, as well as how to get
a copy of the report and draft maps and where to send comments,
visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Internet site: http://www.fws.gov/habitatconservation/coastal_barrier.html
|
Washington
Guard Works With Thai First Responders
Tue, 19 May 2009 16:55:00 -0500
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|
Knoxville
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Reward
Offered for Man and Accomplice Wanted for Kidnapping Briant Rodriguez
Mon, 18 May 2009 08:18:53 -0500
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 each for information
leading to the arrests of Liberato Cardenas-Vega and his accomplice,
Israel Ledesma Moreno, who are wanted for their alleged involvement
in the kidnapping of 3-year-old Briant Rodriguez from his home
in San Bernardino, California, on May 3, 2009.
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|
Democratic
Party of Wisconsin: Founders Day Photo Gallery
More than 550 Democrats from across the
state gathered in Milwaukee May 16 to honor Congressman Dave
Obey for his 40 years of service. Special thanks to everyone
who helped make Founders Day 2009 a huge success!
Check out our Founders Day photo gallery:
http://www.facebook.com/l/;http://www.wisdems.org/calendar_details.asp?id=154
--------------------
|
Press
Release # 5657-09, CFTC Extends Public Comment Period on Concept
Release Regarding Review of Exemptions for Swap Dealers, May
19, 2009
See the CFTC News Room for the latest news and events or News
Room Archives for previous releases.
|
VMI
Commencement
Tue, 19 May 2009 17:31:23 -0500
GEN David Petraeus, Commander of U.S. Central Command, delivers
the commencement address at the Virginia Military Institute graduation
ceremony in Lexington, VA.
|
Pentagon
Dedication Ceremony
Tue, 19 May 2009 17:42:17 -0500
Secretary of Defense Robert Gates hosts a ceremony dedicating
the new Pentagon Humanitarian Relief Corridor.
|
Treasury
Statement on Senate Passage of Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights
May 19, 2009
TG-138
|
Office
of Trade Relations Contact Numbers
Tue, 19 May 2009 15:48:29 -0500
The Office of Trade Relations (OTR) is responsible for ensuring
that accurate, timely, and consistent information is provided
to the international trade community on CBP trade policy, as
established by the agency. The Director of OTR is the designated
regulatory fairness representative for the agency, with responsibility
for promoting compliance with the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement
Fairness Act. (more)
|
Global
Entry Program
Tue, 19 May 2009 15:48:29 -0500
Your Ticket to Get Out of Line…Global Entry is your express
pass to process through the United States' international arrival
areas. Automated kiosks are designed to process pre-approved,
low-risk international travelers who qualify.
|
North
Dakota FEMA Recovery Centers Closed On Memorial Day and Registration/Helpline
Hours Change
Tue, 19 May 2009 15:59:34 -0500
Bismarck, N.D. - Disaster Recovery Centers across the state of
North Dakota will be closed on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25.
All North Dakota Disaster Recovery Centers will resume usual
business hours (Monday - Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. local
time, and closed on Sundays) on Tuesday, May 26.
|
Today's
Top News
Tue, 19 May 2009 17:10:15 -0500
A new Secretary of the Navy is confirmed, aid announced for Pakistan
refugees and a new corridor dedicated at the Pentagon.
|
|
What's
New at AHRQ for Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
What's
New at HCUP User Support for Agency for Healthcare Research and
Quality (AHRQ)
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Event:
Labor Issues Forum with the Arapahoe County Young Dems
"Come and learn about Labor Issues in Colorado in a relaxed
comfotable environment and meet some new friends while you're
at it!"
What: Informational Meeting
Host: Arapahoe County Young Democrats
Start Time: Thursday, May 28 at 6:15pm
End Time: Thursday, May 28 at 8:15pm
Where: Bemis Public Library
To see more
details and RSVP
|
Treasury
Statement on Senate Passage of Credit Cardholders Bill of Rights
May 19, 2009
TG-138
|
CBP
ISF/"10+2" 2009 Outreach Schedule
Tue, 19 May 2009 15:48:29 -0500
CBP is hosting trade outreach events in various locations around
the country to provide the trade community with an opportunity
to learn more about the new Importer Security Filing and Additional
Carrier Requirements (a.k.a. ISF/"10+2") interim final
rule. (more)
|
|
Philadelphia
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
DoD
News Briefing with Geoff Morrell from the Pentagon Briefing Room,
Arlington, Va.
Tue, 19 May 2009 18:14:00 -0500
|
|
Atlanta
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Indianapolis
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
Mabus
Sworn in as New Navy Secretary
Tue, 19 May 2009 18:31:00 -0500
|
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Chicago
Press Releases for Federal Bureau of Investigation
This information has recently been updated,
and is now available.
|
|
Sri
Lanka: Cessation of Fighting
Ian Kelly
Department Spokesman, Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
May 19, 2009
|
VACANCY:
Director, National Exercise Division, ES-301-00 FEMA
Tue, 19 May 2009 07:37:46 -0500
09-004-SES (Closing Date: Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EDT)
|
Officials
Dedicate Humanitarian Relief Corridor in Pentagon
Tue, 19 May 2009 18:37:00 -0500
|
|
Export
Requirements for Meat & Poultry Products for USDA Food Safety
and Inspection Service
The export requirements for Japan, Japan
(Egg Products), People's Republic of China, and Mexico have been
revised. This information has recently been updated.
You may view a copy of the updated information.
|
|
Secretary
Clinton Appoints Stuart E. Eizenstat as Head of U.S. Delegation
to the Prague Holocaust Era Assets Conferences, June 26-30, 2009
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
May 19, 2009
|
|
Today's stories include:
Air Force chief of staff visits Osan
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123150094
Huge crowd turns out for Night at the Air
Force Museum
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123150050
Flight crews fight weather to continue
medical mission in Nicaragua
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123149834
AFMC senior leader reflects on suicide
close to home
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123149551
Combat controller receives two Bronze Stars
with valor
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123149922
|
U.S.
Department of State International Vacancy Announcement - May
20 - June 2, 2009
Bureau of International Organization Affairs
|
|
Contact: Stephanie Lundberg
202-225-3130 For Immediate Release
May 19, 2009
Hoyer Statement on Administration Action
to Establish National Fuel Efficiency Policy
New Policy Will Increase Fuel Economy and
Reduce Emissions
WASHINGTON, DC – Majority Leader Steny
H. Hoyer (MD) issued the following statement applauding the Obama
Administration’s announcement today of a new national standard
for vehicle fuel efficiency and automobile emissions.
“By announcing a new national standard to increase vehicle
fuel efficiency and cut emissions, President Obama has moved
us a significant step closer to achieving energy independence
and curbing the greenhouse gases polluting our air and contributing
to global warming.
“The establishment of a single national standard aimed at
increasing gas mileage and reducing harmful emissions will have
a myriad of benefits. Consumers and businesses will pay less
to fuel their cars and trucks. Automakers will have clarity on
meeting one consistent standard rather than a diversity of regulations.
And with a projected savings of 1.8 billion barrels of oil, we
will make significant progress in breaking our reliance on foreign
oil and combating global warming.
“This action, coupled with comprehensive energy legislation
moving through Congress, will truly be transformational in building
a clean energy economy and putting America on an expedited path
to energy independence.”
###
|
|
Contact: Katie Grant
202-225-3130For Immediate Release
May 19, 2009
Hoyer Statement on the Helping Families
Save Their Homes Act
WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader
Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after
the House passed the Helping Families Save Their Homes Act, which
now goes to the President for his signature:
“Today, the House passed the Helping Families Save Their
Homes Act of 2009, an important piece of legislation that will
help responsible families avoid foreclosure, while stabilizing
our housing market. The bill provides greater incentives for
mortgage lenders and servicers to modify homeowners’ mortgage
terms and helps ensure the availability of credit that will make
modifications possible. All of these provisions are valuable
steps against the foreclosure epidemic that triggered this recession
and continues to leave families displaced and property values
damaged for many Americans. Passing this bill is an important
part of our economic recovery, and I look forward to seeing President
Obama sign it.”
###
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|
FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR WEDNESDAY, MAY 20,
2009
House Meets At… Last Vote Predicted…
10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business
Fifteen “One Minutes” Per Side 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Senate Amendment to H.R.
627 - Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights Act of 2009 (Rep.
Maloney – Financial Services) (Subject to a Rule)
H.R.
2352 - Job Creation Through Entrepreneurship Act of 2009
(Rep. Shuler – Small Business) (Subject to a Rule)
Postponed Suspension Votes (3 Bills)
1) H.Res.
297 - Recognizing May 25, 2009, as National Missing Children's
Day (Rep. Biggert – Education and Labor)
2) H.Res.
374 - Recognizing the roles and contributions of America's
teachers to building and enhancing our Nation's civic, cultural,
and economic well-being (Rep. Graves – Education and Labor)
3) H.R.
1676 - PACT Act (Rep. Weiner – Judiciary)
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Attorney
Vacancies for U.S. Department of Justice
This page has recently been updated with
the following new vacancies:
ASSISTANT
UNITED STATES ATTORNEY UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE DISTRICT
OF COLORADO VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT NO. 09-CO-AUSA-04 Applications
must be received by close of business (5:00pm Mountain Standard
Time) on Wednesday, May 27, 2009.
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ticker timeline 23:05 Eastern Time Tuesday
May 19, 2009
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