earthquake magnitude 8.2 NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA

Magnitude 8.2 - NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA 2005 March 28 16:09:3 7 UTC Preliminary Earthquake ReportU.S. Geological Survey, National Earthquake Information Center World Data Center for Seismology, Denver

A great earthquake occurred at 16:09:37 (UTC) on Monday, March 28, 2005. The magnitude 8.2 event has been located in NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA. (This event has been reviewed by a seismologist.)

Magnitude, 8.2
Date-Time, Monday, March 28, 2005 at 16:09:37 (UTC)= Coordinated Universal Time Monday, March 28, 2005 at 11:09:37 PM = local time at epicenter Time Earthquake other Time Zones
Location, 2.093°N, 97.016°E
Depth, 30 km (18.6 miles) set by location program
Region, NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
Distances, 205 km (125 miles) WNW of Sibolga, Sumatra, Indonesia245 km (150 miles) SW of Medan, Sumatra, Indonesia535 km (330 miles) WSW of KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia1410 km (880 miles) NW of JAKARTA, Java, Indonesia
Location Uncertainty, horizontal +/- 6.1 km (3.8 miles); depth fixed by location program
Parameters, Nst= 65, Nph= 65, Dmin=535.9 km, Rmss=0.85 sec, Gp= 61°,M-type=moment magnitude (Mw), Version=6
Source, USGS NEIC (WDCS-D)
Event ID, usweax

SOURCE: U.S. Geological Survey

White House Easter Egg Roll Closes Early Due to Inclement Weather

White House Easter Egg Roll Closes Early Due to Inclement Weather

The White House Easter Egg Roll closed at 10:00 a.m. due to inclement weather. Easter Egg Roll Bags may still be picked up at the Ellipse Visitors Center with an unused, child event ticket until 2:00 p.m.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 28, 2005

2005 White House Easter Egg Roll FAQs

2005 White House Easter Egg Roll Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How long has this event been a White House tradition?
A. President Rutherford B. Hayes officially opened the White House grounds to local children for egg rolling on Easter Monday in 1878. Successive Presidents have continued the tradition of inviting children to the South Lawn for egg rolling and other activities and entertainment. On occasion, the Easter Egg Roll has been cancelled, either due to inclement weather or in times of war (World War I and World War II).

Q. Is this event open to the public?
A. Yes. Tickets to this year's White House Easter Egg Roll were distributed to the public on Saturday, March 26th. Remaining tickets were made available to the public on the morning of the event, Monday, March 28th.

Q. Were any special groups invited to participate?
A. Yes. Mrs. Bush has extended a special invitation through USA Freedom Corps to organizations promoting youth mentoring programs.

Q. How many people will attend the event?
A. 16,000 tickets were distributed for this event.

Q. Who is hosting the 2005 Easter Egg Roll?
A. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings and Secretary of Health and Human Services Michael O. Leavitt will be co-hosting this year's event.

Q. What kinds of activities will guests participate in?
A. Easter Egg Roll activities begin on the Ellipse with food and entertainment. On the White House South Lawn, children ages 7 or younger can take part in the egg roll. Children of all ages can enjoy the reading corners, egg coloring, art activities, face painting, music, magicians and other activities. Strolling characters will interact with the children as they roam the South Lawn. At the reading corners, visitors will be treated to storytelling by authors of popular children's books, Cabinet members and senior administration officials.

Q. Who dyes the eggs? How many are dyed?
A. The American Egg Board provided approximately 7,200 real eggs for the annual Egg Roll activity. Another 4,000 dyed eggs were provided for the Egg Hunt, and an additional 4,000 were boiled and will be provided for children to dye at an activity area on-site.

Q. Who designed the art for the commemorative egg?
A. Jennifer Carrasco, from Seattle, Washington, designed this year's commemorative wooden egg and the commemorative poster. Jennifer has taught art in the United States, Japan and Korea, in addition to spending 13 years teaching with the Department of Defense Schools in the Philippines and Taiwan.

Q. What will Children receive upon departure from the Easter Egg Roll?
A.

• A commemorative White House wooden Easter egg
• An activity coloring book
• A USA Freedom Corps bookmark
• A children's book
• Easter Egg Roll commemorative poster
• Easter candy

Q. Who are the guest readers?
A.

• Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings
• Secretary of Health and Human Services Michael O. Leavitt
• Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Alphonso Jackson
• Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta
• Attorney General Alberto Gonzales
• Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez
• Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao
• Acting Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency Steve Johnson
• White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card
• Director of the Office of Management and Budget Josh Bolten
• Chief of Staff to Mrs. Bush Anita McBride

Q. Which children's book authors are reading on the South Lawn?
A.

• Susan Stevens Crummel; Jackalope
• Doreen Cronin; Click Clack Moo: Cows That Type
• Sonia Manzano; No Dogs Allowed!
• Shutta Crum; Bravest of the Brave
• Mo Willems; Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus
• Doreen Rappaport; Martin's Big Words
• Pam Munoz Ryan; Mice and Beans
• Michael Stadther; A Treasure's Trove
• Shandi Finnessey - Miss USA 2004; The Furrtails

Q. Who are the entertainers?
A. All for KIDZ, Arne Dixon and his team of world-class yoyo professionals, perform an interactive show featuring more than thirty outstanding yoyo tricks. The NED Show, teaches three essential characteristics for becoming a champion in school and in life: Never Give Up, Encourage Others and Do Your Best.

Barbara Bailey Hutchison, This Grammy Award winner for "Best Musical Recording For Children" is high energy, FUN with every song inviting willing participation. Barbara captivates all ages with her powerful voice, skillful guitar work, and animated stage presence. She was voted "Best Acoustic Act" and "Best Music Act" by colleges nationwide and recently returned from performing in Thailand. She's educational, fun, funny, and highly entertaining.

Bitty Bear's Matinee: The Family Tree(tm) is a new audience participation family theater production for children ages 3 and up. Performed at American Girl Place in Chicago and New York, Bitty Bear's Matinee celebrates the virtues of family and friendship while teaching age-appropriate skills such as sharing and working together. Based on the Bitty Bear books in American Girl's popular Bitty Baby(r) doll line, the live musical performance is done in story-theater style, featuring three of the lovable Bitty Bunch characters-Bitty Bear, Bitty Puppy, and Bitty Kitty.

Disney's Bear in the Big Blue House, Bear is the seven-foot lovable host of the Emmy Award-winning children's television series. He always exudes warmth, comfort and understanding to everyone around him. He scratches and sniffs, often putting his nose right up to the camera lens. Bear is curious about everything around him, and has never lost his natural sense of wonderment. His intimate manner engages young children as he speaks directly to them, while his inquisitive style encourages them to join in, play along, verbally interact and use their imaginations. Filled with civility and concern, Bear also loves to help his friends, constantly displaying infinite patience and interest in their activities.

Buck Howdy, The king of kids' cowboy music with rootin' tootin' tunes for children of all ages. He also hosts his own nationally syndicated radio show, Cow Pie Radio, and stars in a new kids' tv series, the Buck Howdy Show, from Sony Pictures Television.

Ernie & Neal: Aiming to inspire creativity, provoke imaginative thought, and introduce children - musically - to cultural diversity, Ernie & Neal's extraordinarily versatile style explores many sounds and rhythms, and their inspirational and motivational themes run the gamut of creative expression. They also feature a pleasant musical combination of teaching, storytelling, entertaining, educating and informing.

Flumpa(r) and Friends LIVE! Science rocks with Flumpa(r) the tree frog and Wendy Whitten - 'The Singing Scientist.' Charged with energy and fun, this fast-paced interactive musical science show will blast off at the speed of sound delivering a unique blend of music with a twist of science for a captivating exploration of our world. This universally engaging group has performed at over 3,000 events and schools nationwide to over 2,000,000 people since 1995 and has won 17 national awards including several Dr. Toy and iParenting awards.

Animal Planet Presents Animal Encounters, Stop by the Animal Planet stage to get up close and personal with live animals, including a real bunny rabbit. Jim Boller from the hit Animal Planet show, ANIMAL COPS: HOUSTON, will be signing autographs, answering questions and offering pet advice throughout the day.

Houston SPCA Director of Field Services Jim Boller leads the team of investigators who are featured on ANIMAL COPS: HOUSTON. His team covers 2,600 square miles and processes more than 9,000 cruelty cases a year, including many exotic animals such as lions, snakes, ostriches and spiders. Boller has 29 years of animal-related experience and is recognized around the world for his knowledge and expertise in the field of animal welfare.

Animal Planet is the only television network dedicated exclusively to the connection between humans and animals. The network's original programming brings together people of all ages by tapping into a fundamental fascination with animals and providing an entertaining mix of programming, including original movies, adventure series, sports, drama and sitcoms.

Jim Cosgrove & The Hiccups featuring Bop Bop Dinosaur, As a two-time Parents' Choice Award Winner, Jim Cosgrove has been described as "The most intriguing kids entertainer out there right now." With his soothing voice, an acoustic guitar, and a box full of instruments, he has entertained tens of thousands of kids throughout the United States and Europe. The high-energy performances are interactive with an opportunity for kids to play along in an impromptu "jam" session.

Laughing Pizza, A family trio made up of Billy Schlosser, his wife Lisa Michaelis and their ten-year-old daughter Emily, Laughing Pizza makes music for families to share. Billy and Lisa have been writing songs for more than 15 years. Their experience in writing for the children's music market includes songs for Mary Kate and Ashley Olson, the Cartoon Network TV show "Big Bag", and an entire CD of 19 shape and counting songs called "Make it Count", which has become part of the curriculum in public schools in several states. Laughing Pizza has released four Parents Choice Award winning music and video products.

PBS Children's Programs, Barney, the popular fun-loving purple dinosaur, is the best friend a child could ever have. He happens to be a 6-foot Tyrannosaurus Rex. And, speed along and zoon into action as Mr. McFeely the Speedy Delivery Man meets the cast of ZOOM.

RAGGS Kids Club Band, RAGGS and his four colorful canine friends is a costumed character band that mixes original award-winning music with popular favorites in a high-energy interactive show for children. They perform throughout the US with recent performances at the Heart of Texas Fair, the Alabama National Fair, the New York State Fair, and California Kids Fest. Their 2 DVDs and 4 CDs have received the Seal of Approval from the National Parenting Center, iParenting Award, the Creative Child Award and were nominated for two Emmy Awards.

Cast members of the 134th Edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey(r) Circus:
This quintessential American family entertainment tradition has delighted audiences across the country for nearly 135 years. These performers and clowns, as part of The Greatest Show On Earth, have brought wide smiles, laughter and joy to millions, and join us today to meet Children of All Ages. Ringmaster Kevin Venardos, Songstress Jennifer Fuentes-an "American Idol" top-30 finalist, Christine Winn and our world famous Ringling Bros. clowns bring the magic of their latest production to the White House lawn.

Silly Socks Puppet Theatre, Delivering humor, suspense, good messages and lots of silliness through the use of expressive, custom made puppets, The Silly Socks Puppet Theater has appeared across America and nearby at the National Theater and Wolftrap Center. Brian Foster, the lead puppeteer for Silly Socks, has been writing and performing original puppet theater for over a decade.

MAGICIANS, Chadakazzam: Chad Juros started his magic career in 1991 at the age of three when he was diagnosed with leukemia. While receiving chemotherapy and radiation treatments, his father taught him magic to help deal with the discomfort. Chad's magical career includes performances around the world for corporate events pediatric cancer hospitals, hospices and foundations and career highlights include his role as the young David Copperfield for a primetime TV show, as well as Volvo for Life Award finalist.

Eldon D. Wigton "Dr. Eldoonie" - For more than twenty years, Dr. Eldoonie has performed his magic for national and international audiences. He has appeared in several television productions throughout his career and is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the World's Fastest Magician.

Magic Stage will feature some of the best kid's magicians from around the country. The DC area's own Ralph the Great was voted "Best" a record nine times and makes his 6th appearance at the Easter Egg Roll! Ken Scott is Atlanta's best kid show magician who turns a child into a magician at every show! New York City is the home of Silly Billy, their most famous children's performer. Mark Daniel, the Magical Storyteller, comes from North Carolina and is the host of the best Kid Show conference in the world. From Philadelphia, John Cassidy holds the Guinness World Record for most balloon sculptures in one hour! Bruce Bray is New Jersey's busiest professional children's magician. Stretch the Silly Man is New Jersey's funniest kid's comedian. Trixie Bond visits us from Houston and is the nation's best-known female children's magician. From Boston, Mike Bent is one of the most creative and imaginative people in magic.

STROLLING CHARACTERS, Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Raggedy Ann, Raggedy Andy, Peter Cottontail, Babar, B.B. Rabbit, Arthur, The Berenstain Bears, Caillou, Cassie from DRAGON TALES, Clifford the Big Red Dog, Digit and Harry from CYBERCHASE, Grover SESAME STREET, Jay Jay the Jet Plane, Leona from BETWEEN THE LIONS, Maya & Miguel, Mechanical Noo-noo from TELETUBBIES, Piggley Winks from JAKERS! THE ADVENTURES OF PIGGLEY WINKS, Mr. McFeely, the Speedy Delivery Man, from MISTER ROGERS' NEIGHBORHOOD, Patchy Panda, Larry & Bob - Veggie Tales, JoJo & Goliath, Peter Rabbit, Winnie the Pooh, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Louie the Baysox Mascot, The Official White House Bunnies, Woodrow the White House Mouse

For more information, please visit the White House Web Site at WHITEHOUSE.GOV. Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 28, 2005

ALASKA TSUNAMI WARNING SYSTEM

OFFICIALS TEST ALASKA TSUNAMI WARNING SYSTEM FOR THE FIRST TIME
“Live” Warnings Part of Tsunami Awareness Week

NOAA’s National Weather Service and Alaska’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, in cooperation with local emergency management offices and the Alaska Broadcasters Association, will conduct the first-ever statewide test of the tsunami warning communications system on March 30 at 9:45 a.m. Alaska Standard Time. Live tsunami warning codes, rather than a test code, will be broadcast on television stations statewide. NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The communications test will involve NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, the Emergency Alert System (EAS), and other state and local communication links. Radio listeners should hear the familiar alerting tone followed by an audio message describing the test, similar to the routine monthly tests of the EAS. Television viewers, however, may see something different.

Some automated systems, such as for cable TV, are programmed to scroll a standard, pre-composed message based upon the emergency code received. Because a live tsunami warning code will be used, the message television viewers see will not contain the word “TEST.” In fact, it should say, “THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED A TSUNAMI WARNING FOR ALL OF ALASKA...” The television audio message that will accompany the crawler will explain it is a test, but if the volume is turned down or otherwise unheard, viewers may not realize the warning is a test

"This is a critical first step in testing the entire tsunami warning communications system to ensure the safety of all Alaskans," said retired Navy Vice Admiral Conrad C. Launtenbacher, undersecretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. "We're confident the results will not only help protect Alaskans from future tsunamis, but will serve as a testing model for other states and territories that could be impacted by these destructive waves. We think tests like this will become a standard part of NOAA’s commitment to better engage and inform the public as we build a nationwide tsunami detection and warning system."

The test is part of Tsunami Awareness Week, proclaimed by Governor Frank Murkowski as March 27 – April 2. The week coincides with the anniversary of the Great Alaskan Earthquake – a devastating 9.2 magnitude earthquake that triggered deadly tsunamis in Alaska 41 years ago on Good Friday, March 27, 1964.

“The deadly tsunami that occurred in Indonesia last December illustrates the extreme importance of having a tsunami warning system," Murkowski said. "When an actual tsunami warning is issued, we have to be ready to give all Alaskans that could be in danger as much notice as possible so they can seek safety.”`

“We are doing all we can to ensure the public is aware of the test ahead of time so we do not create confusion,” said Jim Butchart, deputy director of Emergency Management for the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. “The only way to truly test our warning system is to use the live codes, so it is very important that we get the public involved in the test as much as possible.”

The general public can participate in the test by monitoring NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards or via commercial radio, cable TV or local television for the EAS message. Local emergency management may use the test to help raise awareness of the tsunami hazard.

Officials will evaluate the success of the test and correct any problems that are uncovered. To assist in this process, people in coastal areas should monitor their normal media sources at the time of the test and report afterwards via an Internet web address given in the test message.

Most importantly, people living or working in coastal areas that DO NOT receive the test through commercial radio or weather radio should report that fact to their local National Weather Service office.

If there is excessive seismic activity on March 30, the test will be cancelled.

NOAA’s National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts and warnings for the United States and its territories. NOAA’s National Weather Service operates the most advanced weather and flood warning and forecast system in the world, helping to protect lives and property and enhance the national economy.

NOAA is dedicated to enhancing economic security and national safety through the prediction and research of weather- and climate-related events and providing environmental stewardship of the Nation’s coastal and marine resources.

NOAA: noaa.gov, NOAA’s National Weather Service: nws.noaa.gov, NOAA’s National Weather Service Alaska Region: arh.noaa.gov/, NOAA’s West Coast and Alaska Tsunami Warning Center: wcatwc.arh.noaa.gov/, Alaska Div.of Homeland Security and Emergency Mangt: ak-prepared.com

NOAA 2005-R227 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Tracy Lake 3/23/05

Remarks by the President to the Travel Pool 04/27/05

REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT TO THE TRAVEL POOL 4th Infantry Division Memorial Chapel Fort Hood, Texas 11:53 A.M. CST

THE PRESIDENT: I want to wish all the fellow citizens and their families a happy Easter. We prayed for peace, we prayed for our soldiers and their families. It's an honor to be here at Ft. Hood to celebrate Easter with those who wear the nation's uniform.

We wish you all a happy Easter, too. Thank you.

END 11:53 A.M. CDT For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 27, 2005

Final Probable Collapse Sequence for WTC Towers

NIST to Hold World Trade Center Investigation Press Briefing in New York CityAgency Will Announce Final Probable Collapse Sequence for WTC Towers,Discuss Findings on Codes, Evacuation and Emergency Response

What: The U.S. Commerce Department’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will brief the media on April 5, 2005, in New York City on the latest findings from its building and fire safety investigation of the World Trade Center (WTC) disaster of Sept. 11, 2001. WTC Lead Investigator Shyam Sunder will present the final probable collapse sequence for the two WTC towers, updating the leading collapse hypothesis released last October. He also will discuss what has been learned from three projects within the WTC investigation—analysis of building and fire codes and practices; occupant behavior, egress, and emergency communications; and fire service technologies and guidelines. Full reports from the three projects will be released. Recommendations for these projects, as well as all other projects in the investigation, will be released for public comment at a later date.

A briefing for the public will be conducted starting at 1 p.m. EST.

The overall goal of this investigation, and all NIST investigations conducted under the National Construction Safety Team (NCST) Act, is to recommend improvements in the way people design, construct, maintain and use buildings to increase both occupant safety and structural integrity.

When: Tuesday, April 5, 2005 10 a.m. – noon EST

Where: The Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan 1605 Broadway New York, N.Y. 10019 Times Square B Room

Media Signup: Media planning to attend the briefing should register by Friday, April 1, 2005, at 5 p.m. EST, by calling (301) 975-2762 or sending an e-mail to media@nist.gov.

For security reasons, all media—including production crew members—must have proper credentials (a news media badge with photo or a photo ID with a business card) to enter the briefing room.

More Information: A comprehensive Web site on the NIST WTC investigation may be accessed at wtc.nist.gov. The text of the briefing presentation and supporting materials will be available online at the same Web address concurrent with the media briefing on April 5, 2005. SOURCE: National Institute of Standards and Technology

For Immediate Release: March 24, 2005 Contact: Michael E. Newman(301) 975-3025

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

$2.4 Million Available for Jail Diversion Grant Programs

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the availability of FY 2005 funds for Targeted Capacity Expansion Grants for Jail Diversion programs to divert individuals with mental illness away from the criminal justice system and into community-based, integrated mental health and substance abuse treatment and appropriate support services.
It is expected that approximately $400,000 will be available per grantee in Fiscal Year 2005 to fund six grants for up to three years. These grants will promote the transformation of systems to improve services for justice-involved adults with mental illness. The grants will be administered by SAMHSA’s Center for Mental Health Services.

WHO CAN APPLY: Eligible applicants are the chief executive of a state; political subdivisions of states; and Indian tribes and tribal organizations, acting through agreements with other public and nonprofit entities to develop and implement programs to divert individuals with mental illness away from the criminal justice system and into community-based services. All applications must be signed by the chief executive of the state, political subdivision of state, Indian tribe, or tribal organization.

HOWTO APPLY: Applicants for No SM-05-011 are available by calling SAMHSA’s clearinghouse at 1-800-729-6686, or by downloading the application from grants.gov or samhas.gov . Applicants are encouraged to apply on line through a new service at grants.gov

APPLICATION DUE DATE: May 24, 2005, ADDITIIONAL INFORMATION: Applicants with questions on program issues should contact David Morrissette, DSW, at (240)-276-1912 or e-mail to david.morrissette@samhsa.hhs.gov. For questions on grant management issues, contact Kimberly Pendleton at (240) 276-1421 or email to Kimberly.pendleton@samhsa.hhs.gov

Experimental Avian Flu Vaccine

NIAID Initiates Trial of Experimental Avian Flu Vaccine, Fast-track recruitment has begun for a trial to investigate the safety of a vaccine against H5N1 avian influenza, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), announced today.

Sites in Rochester, NY, Baltimore and Los Angeles will enroll a total of 450 healthy adults. The clinical sites are part of the NIAID-sponsored Vaccine and Treatment Evaluation Units (VTEU).

“While there have been relatively few cases worldwide of H5N1 avian influenza infection in humans, the public health community is concerned that the virus will develop the capability of efficiently spreading from human to human and thus create a risk for a worldwide pandemic,” says NIAID Director Anthony S. Fauci, M.D.

“NIAID has supported research on H5N1, the strain responsible for this deadly form of avian influenza, since 1997 when the first cases in humans were reported. The initiation of this vaccine trial marks a key advance in our efforts to prepare to respond to an avian flu pandemic,” adds Dr. Fauci.

Sanofi pasteur, Swiftwater, PA, manufactured the trial vaccine, which is an inactivated vaccine made from an H5N1 virus isolated in Southeast Asia in 2004. Sanofi pasteur, formerly Aventis Pasteur, was awarded a contract by NIAID to manufacture the H5N1 vaccine in May 2004.

This Phase I trial will test the vaccine’s safety and ability to generate an immune response in 450 healthy adults aged 18 to 64. If the vaccine is shown to be safe in adults, there are plans to test it in other populations, such as the elderly and children.

H5N1 avian influenza leads to severe disease in both birds and humans. Between January 2004 and March 11, 2005, there were 69 confirmed cases of and 46 deaths from H5N1 infection in humans reported to the World Health Organization. To date, there has been a small number of cases where human-to-human transmission of the virus may have occurred. However, public health experts fear that the virus may evolve into one that is more easily transmitted between people. If this were to happen, a worldwide pandemic could follow.

Influenza pandemics are global outbreaks that emerge infrequently and unpredictably and involve strains of virus to which humans have little or no immunity. H5N1 is one such flu virus strain. The last influenza pandemic swept the globe in 1968; many public health officials believe the world is overdue for another one.

The VTEUs now enrolling adult volunteers are

• University of California at Los Angeles (Joel Ward, M.D., Principal Investigator)
• University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD (James Campbell, M.D., P.I.)
• University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY (John Treanor, M.D., P.I.)

In addition to the previous contract awarded to sanofi pasteur, in May 2004 NIAID also awarded a contract to Chiron Corporation of Emeryville, CA, to produce H5N1 vaccine for clinical trials.

NIAID is a component of the National Institutes of Health, an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIAID supports basic and applied research to prevent, diagnose and treat infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, influenza, tuberculosis, malaria and illness from potential agents of bioterrorism. NIAID also supports research on transplantation and immune-related illnesses, including autoimmune disorders, asthma and allergies. SOURCE: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wednesday, March 23, 2005 CONTACT: Anne A. Oplinger 301- 402-1663

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) hospital conditions of participation

MEDICARE PUBLISHES PROPOSED RULE UPDATING HOSPITAL CONDITIONS OF PARTICIPATION

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today announced a proposed rule to alleviate hospitals of overly burdensome regulations and allow doctors and nurses to focus more time and energy on patient care.

The proposed rule would revise requirements in the hospital conditions of participation (CoPs) for completion of history and physical (H&P) examinations, authentication of verbal orders, securing medications, and completion of post anesthesia evaluations.

“Based on extensive input from health professionals and the health care community, we are proposing to revise some specific aspects of our regulations to provide better support of the delivery of high-quality, up-to-date care at a lower cost,” said CMS Administrator Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.

These revisions were contained in the notice of proposed rule making (NPRM) published December 19, 1997, entitled “Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Hospital Conditions of Participation; Provider Agreements and Supplier Approval,” which contained extensive revisions to the entire set of hospital CoPs. Other changes in the hospital CoPs are coming, building on these steps to avoid unnecessary burdens while promoting high-quality care.

“To keep up with changes in effective medical practice, we believe it is in the interest of the health care community as a whole for us to move forward with these changes,” McClellan said.

The revised requirements include:

• H&P examination. The proposed requirement would expand the number of permissible practitioners who may perform the H&P and the time frame for its completion.
• Authentication of verbal orders. This regulation would require that all orders, including verbal orders, must be dated, timed, and authenticated by a practitioner responsible for the care of the patient. During a five year transition period from publication of the final rule, it would allow all orders, including verbal orders, to be dated, timed and authenticated by the prescribing practitioner or another practitioner responsible for the care of the patient. This would respond to public comments, reduce burden, and provide flexibility for hospitals in meeting the requirements for authentication of verbal orders. CMS expects that sunsetting this flexibility after a five year period is sufficient time for the adoption of changes in health care information technology to make it easy for prescribing practitioners to authenticate all of their own orders in a timely fashion. Additionally, the proposed rule states that in the absence of a State law specifying the timeframe for authentication of verbal orders, verbal orders would need to be authenticated within 48 hours. Finally, this requirement clarifies and reinforces current regulations regarding who may accept verbal orders, authentication of all orders for drugs and biologicals, and authentication of medical record entries.
• Security of Medications. This regulation requires that all drugs and biologicals be kept in secure areas, or locked when appropriate, to prevent unauthorized persons from obtaining access. This regulation addresses community concerns, provides flexibility for hospitals in determining control of nonscheduled drugs and biologicals, and is more patient-focused and outcome-oriented than the current requirement.
• Post anesthesia evaluation. This requirement permits the post anesthesia evaluation for inpatients to be completed and documented by any individual qualified to administer anesthesia. The current CoP requires that the individual who administers the anesthesia do this evaluation.

The intent of this proposed rule is to ensure that our requirements are consistent with current standards of practice, to provide hospitals and practitioners greater flexibility in meeting the needs of patients, and to reduce unnecessary regulatory burden for hospitals.

The proposed rule may be found at cms.hhs.gov. # # #

Medicare News For Immediate Release: Contact: Thursday, March 24, 2005 CMS Office of Public Affairs202-690-6145 For questions about Medicare please call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit medicare.gov. SOURCE: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

T. rex Fossil Yields Soft Tissue

T. rex Fossil Yields Soft Tissue, High Resolution Photo of Fragments of soft tissue extracted from the marrow cavity of a T. rex femur, after the surrounding bone mineral has been dissolved away. (A) The demineralized fragment is flexible and resilient and, when stretched (arrow), returns to its original shape. (B) Demineralized bone in (A) after air drying. The overall structural and functional characteristics remain after dehydration. (C) Regions of demineralized bone show fibrous material (arrows). Scale bars: 0.5 mm.Credit: From Schweitzer et al., Science 307:1952-1955 (2005). Reprinted with permission from AAAS.

In a discovery that invokes comparisons to Jurassic Park, North Carolina State University paleontologist Mary Schweitzer and her colleagues have extracted soft tissue from the fossilized leg bone of a 70-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex specimen. The soft tissue includes intact, still-flexible blood vessels and fibrous material consistent with collagen. Also, electron microscopy reveals round-to-oval bodies virtually identical to the cell nuclei found in the corresponding tissues of ostriches, which, along wtih other birds, are believed to be modern-day descendants of dinosaurs.

Whether the tissue will yield DNA or any other biomolecules remains to be answered.

Schweitzer and her team published the finding in the March 25 issue of the journal Science.

The presence of this novel tissue is not the only surprise from this discovery, says Enriqueta Barrera, a program director in the National Science Foundation's earth sciences division, which partly funded the study. The tissue was once elastic and stretchy, and had the capacity to be dehydrated and rehydrated many times without losing this characteristic. “Although the preservation of soft tissue such as this is not unique in the geologic record, this occurrence goes well beyond what has been observed in the past for dinosaurs, and reinforces the evolutionary link of dinosaurs to birds,” said Barrera.

For more information, see the NC State news release. -NSF-

Media Contacts Cheryl L. Dybas, NSF (703) 292-7734 cdybas@nsf.govTracey Peake, NC State (919) 515-3470 tracey_peake@ncsu.edu, Program Contacts Enriqueta Barrera, NSF (703) 292-8551 ebarrera@nsf.gov, Principal Investigators Mary H. Schweitzer, NC State (919) 515-3711 schweitzer@ncsu.edu, Related WebsitesThe Science paper: sciencemag.org/-NSF- Press Release 05-048, SOURCE: National Science Foundation

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) roundtable

CFTC ANNOUNCES APRIL 6, 2005 CPO and COMMODITY POOL INDUSTRY ROUNDTABLE

Washington, D.C. - The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) will hold a roundtable on Commodity Pool Operators (CPOs) and the commodity pool industry on Wednesday, April 6, 2005, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. The roundtable is scheduled to be held in the first floor Hearing Room at the Commission’s Headquarters, 1155 21st Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.

The roundtable will focus on the growth, innovation and regulation of the commodity pool industry over the last 30 years and the challenges and issues faced by the industry. There are approximately 1,900 CFTC-registered CPOs, which sponsor, operate or advise 3,500 commodity pools, holding more than $600 billion in net assets. The roundtable will have five panels composed of regulators, industry participants, investors and academics. Each panel will examine different topics and issues facing the commodity pool industry.

Acting Chairman Sharon Brown-Hruska, who will chair the roundtable, said “The CFTC has overseen the commodity pool industry for 30 years. This industry, which includes many of the largest hedge funds, plays an extremely important role in the functioning of the futures markets in the United States as well as the rest of the world. It is essential that the Commission understand, work with, and strive to enhance this important and growing industry. The roundtable will provide us with an excellent forum to accomplish these goals.”

The roundtable will be open to the public. A draft agenda and list of roundtable participants in PDF format is attached to the Press Release. The agenda, along with biographies of the panelists and presentations, in PDF format will be posted on the CFTC’s website – cftc.gov/cftc/cftchome – and will be updated as materials are received. For further information, contact the Commission’s Office of External Affairs at (202) 418-5080. # # #

Commodity Futures Trading Commission Office of External Affairs (202) 418-5080 Three Lafayette Centre 1155 21st Street, NW Washington, DC 20581 Release: #5061-05 For Release: March 24, 2005

Lebanon: Beirut Bombing

Lebanon: Beirut Bombing, The United States strongly condemns the bombing which took place in north Beirut the evening of March 26. We note that this is the third bombing since March 19.

We call on the Lebanese authorities to exercise their responsibility to the Lebanese people to provide for their security and to identify and bring to justice those responsible for these acts.

The Lebanese people have the right to determine their own political future in a climate free of fear and intimidation. This cannot happen while Syrian military and intelligence forces remain in Lebanon, where they are a source of instability. Syria must withdraw completely and immediately from Lebanon, in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1559.

2005/355 Released on March 26, 2005 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC March 26, 2005 SOURXE: State.gov

Station Crew Spacewalk Set for Monday 03/28/05

Station Crew Spacewalk Set for Monday 03.25.05

International Space Station crewmembers will finish setting out a welcome mat for the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) during their mission’s second and final planned spacewalk early March 28.
Commander Leroy Chiao and Flight Engineer Salizhan Sharipov will install on the Zvezda Service Module the final three antennas of a six-antenna set for the ATV, an unpiloted European cargo carrier scheduled to make its first trip to the Station early next year.

They also will install a Global Positioning System (GPS) antenna for the ATV.

The previous Station crew, Commander Gennady Padalka and NASA ISS Science Officer Mike Fincke, installed the first three antennas of the six-antenna set.

During this spacewalk, Sharipov and Chiao will deploy a small Russian experiment called Nanosatellite.

The spacewalk, in Russian Orlan suits using the airlock of the Pirs Docking Compartment, should last about 5 hours, 40 minutes. It is scheduled to start at 1:25 a.m. EST. Live coverage on NASA Television will begin at midnight.

Sharipov, designated EV1, or lead spacewalker, is making his second spacewalk. This is the sixth spacewalk for Chiao, EV2. Both will wear suits with red stripes. Chiao's suit will have a U.S flag on the shoulder.

After opening the hatch and assembling equipment, Sharipov and Chiao move from the Pirs back to the small-diameter forward end of Zvezda. There they install the three WAL antennas, space-to-space communications antennas for the ATV.

Installation of the WAL antennas and their associated cabling should take about 2 1/2 hours.

The next task of the spacewalk is to deploy the Nanosatellite. It is about a foot long, weighs 11 pounds and contains a transmitter. The crew activates it before leaving the airlock. The object of the experiment is to develop small satellite control techniques, monitor satellite operations and develop new attitude system sensors.

The crew deploys it from the ladder at the Pirs docking compartment, giving it a push in the direction opposite the direction the Station is traveling. It should leave the Station at a relative velocity of about one meter per second.

Next the crew moves to the large-diameter section of the Service Module to install the GPS antenna and its cabling. Their movements to and around the rear of the Service Module will be carefully coordinated with Mission Control Moscow to avoid any possibility of contamination should it become necessary to use Russian thrusters there to adjust the orientation of the Space Station.

While near the back end of the Service Module the crew will also inspect a remotely operated Russian communications antenna and confirm its location for Mission Control Moscow.

The final task is to inspect and photograph a laser reflector on the Service Module's aft end-cone. The reflector helps control the ATV's final approach to the Station, and the inspection is the last ATV-related activity of the spacewalk.

The crew is scheduled to re-enter the Pirs airlock and close the hatch at 7 a.m. EST. Editor: John Ira Petty NASA Official: Brian Dunbar Last Updated: March 25, 2005 + Contact NASA SOURCE: NASA

Bomb Dogs Stop Truck Carrying Suspicious Materials

Bomb Dogs Stop Truck Carrying Suspicious Materials

TAJI, Iraq – A large dump truck trying to enter an Iraqi Army base was stopped when security dogs detected bomb materials in it, according to a multinational forces report.

Security workers discovered a compartment under the truck containing several switch parts, electrical cords, coils, cans and other items used in building explosive devices. The driver is being held for questioning.

Iraqi soldiers with the 5th Battalion and Coalition military police secured the area during the incident.

For more information, please visit mnstci.iraq.centcom.mil -30-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 25, 2005 Contact: Capt. Tim Jeffers IRAQNA Cell: 011-964-0790-191-0653E-mail: jefferstj@mnstci.iraq.centcom.mil

PRESS RELEASE MULTI-NATIONAL SECURITY TRANSITION COMMAND – IRAQ

SUICIDE VBIED DETONATES NEAR CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq

SUICIDE VBIED DETONATES NEAR RAMADI ENTRY CONTROL POINT

CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq – A suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated at an entry control point at approximately 7 p.m., March 24, in Eastern Ramadi.

Initial reports indicate the blast killed six and wounded 19 members of the 2nd Iraqi Special Police Commandos. Two U.S. soldiers and two Iraqi civilians also sustained injuries from the explosion.

Additional Iraqi Security Forces and U.S. personnel responded to the scene.

No further information on the suicide attack is available at this time.

Entry control points began outside the provincial capital Feb. 20 at the request of the Iraqi government. This enhanced security measure was designed to help protect the citizens of Ar Ramadi. These control points are manned by both Iraqi Security Forces and U.S. military personnel assigned to 2d Marine Division.

“These terrorist attacks will not deter the soldiers and Marines from accomplishing their mission,” said Brig. Gen. Joe J. McMenamin, assistant division commander, 2nd Marine Division. “This was an attack on Iraqi Security Forces who have sworn an oath to protect the citizens of Iraq.” -30-

NEWS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND 7115 South Boundary Boulevard MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101 Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894 March 25, 2005 Release Number: 05-03-29 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SOURCE: United States Central Command

Quasiparticle Behavior in Bose Quantum Liquids

Quasiparticle Behavior in Bose Quantum Liquids March 25, 2005

LOS ANGELES, CA - Quasiparticles carry energy in condensed matter. In the world of quasiparticle physics, understanding when and how these energy carriers fail opens doors to another level of understanding, and can lead the way to many new and important theories. Scientists at the U. S. Department of Energy’s Brookhaven National Laboratory have discovered the failure point for the quasiparticle construct, the standard model of condensed matter physics. This could have far-reaching implications, for example, in the study of high-temperature superconductors, materials currently under intense scrutiny as a possible replacement for the conventional superconducting materials now used in many facets of everyday life.

Physicist Igor Zaliznyak (click to view hi-res photo).

At the March 2005 meeting of the American Physical Society, Brookhaven physicist Igor Zaliznyak will explain how he and his colleagues identified the “spectrum endpoint” in a Bose quantum spin liquid, the point at which the quasiparticles are no longer well-defined energy carriers. Zaliznyak will discuss his paper at 1:39 p.m. Friday, March 25, 2005, in Room 515B of the Los Angeles Convention Center.

“Although the quantum-liquid state has been studied for roughly a century, it continues to fascinate physicists,” Zaliznyak said. “We have demonstrated that at higher energies, the Bose quasiparticle description fails because of quasiparticle decay.”

The study of quasiparticles, which govern the properties of quantum liquids, was pioneered by Russian Nobel Prize winning-physicist L.D. Landau. There are two types of quasiparticles, Bose and Fermi, and physicists around the globe are exploring the properties of each type. The Brookhaven experiments, conducted using the triple-axis neutron spectrometer at the National Institutes of Standards and Technology, confirmed that in a particular Bose quantum spin liquid, quasiparticle decay leads to spectrum termination, as was predicted by Landau.

“Landau proposed that at some energy, the quasiparticle description breaks down, and in a generic form this has been known,” Zaliznyak said. “But the extent of the phenomenon and how it reveals itself in real materials hasn’t been clear. We have shown that at twice the minimum excitation energy, known as the spin gap, Bose quasiparticles cease to be defined at all and disappear.”

The Brookhaven experiments studied a quantum liquid found in systems composed of quantum spins in magnetic crystals, specifically an organo-metallic material known as PHCC. The scientists’ neutron scattering measurements demonstrate the occurrence of spectrum termination in the two-dimensional quantum spin liquid found in PHCC.

“When you attempt to create an excitation that is more than twice the gap rate, it’s possible that your excitation decays, “ Zaliznyak said. “In Bose quantum liquids, when decay processes like this become allowed, you can’t have quasiparticles.”

The research was funded by the Office of Basic Energy Sciences within the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science, the National Science Foundation, and the Robert A. Welch Foundation.

Note to local editors: Igor Zaliznyak lives in Port Jefferson, New York.

Contact: Kay Cordtz, (631) 344-2710 or Mona S. Rowe, (631) 344-5056 SOURCE: Brookhaven National Laboratory

Forrest. Trembley Vietnam MIA

Missing In Action Serviceman Identified, The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. Navy pilot, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Navy Lieutenant Commander J. Forrest G. Trembley of Spokane, Wash., will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery on April 1.

On August 21, 1967, Trembley and his fellow crewman took off in their A-6A Intruder from the U.S.S. Constellation on a strike mission against the Duc Noi rail yards near Hanoi, North Vietnam. On leaving the target area, their aircraft and another one in the flight were attacked by enemy MiGs. When last seen, the two aircraft were disappearing into the clouds near the Vietnamese-Chinese border. The last radio message from Trembley indicated the MiGs were in hot pursuit, but no further communications were heard.

Later that day, the Chinese government reported that two U.S. A-6s had been shot down over the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The broadcast noted that one of the four crewmen had been captured but the other three died in the shoot down. The Chinese released the surviving crewman in March 1973.

With the assistance of the Chinese government, a joint U.S.-PRC team interviewed witnesses to the shoot down and crash in 1993 and 1999. U.S. specialists from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) interviewed a Chinese citizen near the crash site. He turned over Trembley’s identification tag and fragmentary human remains alleged to be those of American pilots. The team recovered some pilot’s gear from a burial site, but found no additional human remains.

Scientists of the JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory used mitochondrial DNA as one of the forensic tools to identify the remains as those of Trembley.

Of the 88,000 Americans missing in action from all conflicts, 1,836 are from the Vietnam War, with 1,399 of those within the country of Vietnam. Another 747 Americans have been accounted for since the end of the Vietnam War.

For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO web site at www.dtic.mil/dpmo, or call 703-699-1169.

U.S. Department of DefenseOffice of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)News Release On the Web: defenselink.mil/releases/ Media contact: +1 (703) 697-5131 Public contact: dod.mil/faq/comment or +1 (703) 428-0711 No. 289-05 IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 25, 2005

U.S. Contact with Interim Leader of Kyrgyzstan

U.S. Contact with Interim Leader of Kyrgyzstan (Taken Question)

Question: Has the United States made formal contact with the reported interim leader of Kyrgyzstan, Kurmanbek Bakiyev?

Answer: Ambassador Stephen Young met with Mr. Bakiyev on the evening of March 24. At that time Mr. Bakiyev was serving as Chairman of the Committee for National Unity and had not yet been named Prime Minister and President. Ambassador Young has been in regular telephone contact with him and other interim leaders.

2005/354 Released on March 25, 2005 Taken Question Richard Boucher Washington, DC March 25, 2005 SOURCE: State.gov

Freedom Calendar 03/26/05 - 04/02/05

March 26, 1910, President Taft appoints Republican William Lewis as first African-American U.S. Asst. Attorney General.

Easter Sunday
March 27, 1856, First meeting of Republican National Committee in Washington, DC to oppose Democrats’ pro-slavery policies.

March 28, 1870, Republican Jonathan Wright of South Carolina becomes first African-American state Supreme Court Justice.

March 29, 1885, Birth of U.S. Rep. Frances Payne Bolton (R-OH), first woman to serve as U.S. Delegate to United Nations General Assembly.

March 30, 1868, Republicans begin impeachment trial of Democrat President Andrew Johnson, who declared: “This is a country for white men, and by God, as long as I am President, it shall be a government of white men”.

March 31, 1806, Birth of U.S. Senator John Hale (R-NH), early leader of Republicans’ anti-slavery movement in Congress.

April 1, 1846, Born into slavery on this day, Jeremiah Haralson (R-AL) served in state legislature before being elected to U.S. House in 1874.

April 2, 1855, Republican John Langston becomes nation’s first African-American elected official, in Brownhelm, OH; later served as U.S. Rep. (R-VA) and as diplomat in Republican administrations.

“We love freedom more, vastly more, than slavery; consequently we hope to keep clear of the Democrats!”

Rep. Joseph Rainey (R-SC), the first African-American in the U.S. House of Representatives (1870-79)

SOURCE: 2005 Republican Freedom Calendar

bush radio address 03/26/05 full audio, text transcript

bush radio address 03/26/05 full audio, text transcript

President's Radio Address

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. This weekend, millions of Americans celebrate the joyous holiday of Easter. Easter is the most important event of the Christian faith, when people around the world join together with family and friends to celebrate the power of love conquering death.

At Easter time we pray for all who serve in our military. The outstanding members of our Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are keeping America secure and advancing liberty in the world. We remember especially those who have given their lives in freedom's cause. Their sacrifice is a testament to the words of scripture: "Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."

Easter has a special meaning for the families of our men and women in uniform who miss their loved ones during the holidays. It can be very difficult when someone you love is deployed on a dangerous mission in a distant land. I appreciate the sacrifices our military families are making, and Americans know that their contributions are vital to our success in the war on terror.

This week we have seen tragedy at home. Families in Minnesota are mourning the loss of their loved ones after the terrible shootings at Red Lake High School. Hours after the shooting, communities and churches across the nation offered prayers for the victims and their families. The Red Lake Nation reports receiving thousands of calls from people all over the world offering their sympathy and support. Laura and I are praying for the families of the victims, as are millions of Americans.

This week I spoke with Red Lake Tribal Chairman Floyd Jourdain to express the condolences of the American people and to pledge the continued help of the federal government. We are doing everything we can to meet the needs of the community at this tragic time. The FBI and the Department of Justice are working to coordinate relief through the Federal Crime Victim Assistance Fund. We're working closely with state, local and tribal authorities to provide counseling, help with funeral arrangements and other assistance.

The tragedy at Red Lake was accompanied by acts of heroism and selflessness. A security guard named Derrick Brun saved the lives of countless students when he rose from his desk to confront the young gunman. Although he was unarmed, Derrick ignored the pleas of a colleague to run for his life. By engaging the assailant, he bought vital time for a fellow security guard to rush a group of students to safety. Derrick's bravery cost him his life, and all Americans honor him.

As we help the families in this community, we must do everything in our power to prevent tragedies like this from happening. Children benefit from a sense of community, and the support and involvement of caring adults. To keep our children safe and protected, we must continue to foster a culture that affirms life and provides love, and helps our young people build character.

On this Easter weekend, we honor all Americans who give of themselves, from those helping neighbors at home to those defending liberty overseas. Easter is the victory of light over darkness. In this season of renewal, we remember that hope leads us closer to truth, and that in the end, even death, itself, will be defeated. That is the promise of Easter morning. END

Thank you for listening. For Immediate Release March 26, 2005

FAA, Commercial Space Launch Partnership

FAA Announces Next Step in Commercial Space Launch Partnership

WASHINGTON, D.C.--The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Air Force (USAF) are moving in concert to propose common federal standards that will make expendable commercial rocket launches safer, more efficient, and less costly.
The new proposed rules will strengthen public safety by identifying up-front potential problems and formalizes procedures to minimize the launch hazards inherent in commercial rocket launches at federal and non-federal launch sites. While each agency will still maintain its own safety standards, those standards will now be technically equivalent and represent current practices at Air Force- operated launch ranges. In addition, USAF Space Command and the FAA have established a single administrative process for reviewing range users' requests for relief from requirements.

"These rules make it easier--and safer- -to launch commercial rockets," said FAA Administrator Marion C. Blakey. "We can aide growth of this industry by expanding safety through a unified set of strong safety standards and institutionalized processes."

Both the FAA and the USAF have congressionally-directed responsibilities for the safety of these licensed launches from Air Force- operated launch ranges. The FAA Office of Commercial Space Transportation and the U.S. Air Force Space Command have worked together since 1997 to improve and document common launch safety requirements. The U.S. Air Force Space Command provides leadership direction, and the FAA licenses, commercial space launch activities at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL and Vandenberg Air Force Base, CA. These proposed rules build on that partnership.

The proposed rules will be discussed at an FAA/USAF joint public meeting on March 29-31 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Discovery 1 Conference Room of the Holiday Inn-Capitol, 550 C Street, SW in Washington. The Air Force will attend to share their expertise. The public meeting will provide stakeholders with information about the draft regulatory language and allow them to comment on the record.

The FAA draft regulatory language is available for public review in the Department of Transportation (DOT) Docket for the rulemaking at dms.dot.gov, Docket Number FAA- 2000-7953. Using the Simple Search, type 7953 for the full docket for this rulemaking. Also available at ast.faa.gov/UM/ is a matrix that demonstrates the commonalities of Air Force requirements and FAA regulations. ####

Contact: Henry J. Price Phone: (202) 267-3883 APA 13-05 Date Posted: March 24, 2005
SOURCE: Federal Aviation Administration

EPA Inspector General Report, BioWatch Program

Response to EPA Inspector General Report on the BioWatch Program

Clearly much of the information related to the BioWatch program is sensitive and a detailed discussion of specifics of the system would be inappropriate for national security reasons. However, this agency can assure American citizens that EPA has acted swiftly and soundly in the areas of concern raised by the Inspector General.

Since the establishment of the initial BioWatch network, the U.S. Government continues to make substantial improvements to the program – from the quantity of monitors to security at monitoring sites to quality assurance activities. These improvements effectively resolve the concerns raised by EPA’s Inspector General.

In fact, as of last month, EPA has worked with every BioWatch city to ensure that the monitoring equipment at every site is functioning properly, is secure, and is able to effectively detect biological agents in the event they were released.

And we know the program is working – since its inception, the BioWatch team, with the support of state and local public health officials, has sited and continues to site hundreds of monitors across the nation that have successfully yielded tens of thousands of samples.

EPA worked with DHS and state and local agencies to deploy monitors on an extremely tight schedule because of rising security concerns. EPA is meeting the requirements of the Department of Homeland Security.

BioWatch is a “first of its kind” that brings together the best expertise the nation has to offer. This includes teams of specialists from DHS, EPA, CDC, Los Alamos National Laboratories, Lawrence Livermore Laboratories, and the Department of Defense that are experts in medicine, epidemiology, public health management, forensic sciences, biological aerosol detection and modeling.

The BioWatch network is an important tool for detecting a biological attack. It is an early-warning system designed to detect the release of biological agents in the air so that there is time for federal, state, and local officials to deliver the most effective response.

R054 Release date: 03/25/2005 Contact: EPA Press Office, 202-564-4355 SOURCE: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

U.S. Assistance to Kyrgyzstan

U.S. Assistance to Kyrgyzstan

Question: How much U.S. foreign aid does Kyrgyzstan receive and are there any plans to augment that funding given the security situation in the country?

Answer: Total U.S. assistance to Kyrgyzstan was $50.8 million in Fiscal Year 2004. While figures for total U.S. assistance for Fiscal Year 2005 are not yet available, the State Department budget contains $31 million in aid to Kyrgyzstan under the Freedom Support Act. We will continue to support economic and democratic reform in Kyrgyzstan, including elections, humanitarian assistance, law enforcement, and security, and will carefully watch for emerging needs. The latest comprehensive breakdown of U.S. assistance to Kyrgyzstan is available at: state.gov/p/eur/.

Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC March 24, 2005 Question Taken from March 24, 2005 Briefing

Human Rights and Democracy: The U.S. Record 2004-2005

Special Press Briefing and Release of Supporting Human Rights and Democracy: The U.S. Record 2004-2005

Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, will introduce the release of the State Department's report, Supporting Human Rights and Democracy: The U.S. Record 2004-2005 on Monday, March 28, at 10:00 a.m. Following the Secretary's opening remarks, Acting Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Michael G. Kozak will provide remarks and respond to reporters' questions. This event is on camera and on the record, and will be held in the State Department's press briefing room (Room 2209).

Advance Copies of the Embargoed Report

Embargoed copies of the publication in print and on CD-ROM will be available on Monday, March 28, 2005 at 8:30 a.m. in the State Department's Press Office (Room 2109). The entire report is EMBARGOED until the end of the press briefing, approximately 11:00 a.m., March 28. Copies will not be reserved, mailed, faxed or delivered to a building entrance.

Press who attend this briefing should arrive at the 23rd Street entrance to the Harry S. Truman Building (2201 C Street, NW) and must present either (1) A U.S. Government-issued identification card (Department of State, White House, Congress, Department of Defense or Foreign Press Center), (2) a media-issued photo identification card, or (3) letter from their employer on letterhead verifying their employment as a journalist, accompanied by an official photo identification card (driver's license, passport). Press should allow adequate time to process through security and to be in the briefing room 10 minutes before the briefing.

Electronic Access to the Report via Internet

The full text of the report will be available for downloading from the State Department web site at: http://www.state.gov/ as soon as possible after the briefing on Monday, March 28.

Press Contacts

For more information on this event, contact: Sally Buikema, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, (202) 647-3904 and Kurtis Cooper, Office of Press Relations, (202) 647-2492 2005/351 Notice to the Press (Revised) Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC March 25, 2005

trafficking of women and girls for sexual exploitation.

United States and Sweden Join Forces to Protect Women and Girls from Sex Trafficking

The United States and Sweden are teaming up to fight the trafficking of women and girls for sexual exploitation.

In a joint effort, the countries are funding the Prevention Project to support frontline non-governmental organizations to combat human trafficking and prostitution in 12 European countries. The Coalition Against Trafficking in Women and the European Women’s Lobby, both non-governmental organizations, are spearheading the effort.

The Prevention Project will address gaps in gender equality, the demand for sex trafficking victims, and the connection between human trafficking and prostitution. The bilateral program also will help promote equality between women and men as a fundamental part of democracy and human rights.

The United States and Sweden are contributing approximately $330,000 each over two years to the project, which will operate in Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Russia, and Serbia and Montenegro.

Ambassador John R. Miller, director of the State Department’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, called the partnership an important action to reduce the demand for human trafficking.

“The U.S. and Sweden share common ground in fighting sex trafficking by addressing violence against women, the demand for sexual exploitation and the links between prostitution and human trafficking,” Miller said. “By going after buyers, we can dry up the market for prostitution and the demand for sex trafficking while protecting victims.”

The United States opposes legalized or normalized prostitution because it is inherently harmful and dehumanizing and fuels the growth of human trafficking. Sweden has criminalized the buying of sexual services as an important tool in stamping out sex trafficking and gender inequality. The United States Government estimates that nearly 70 percent of all victims trafficked across borders are used for commercial sexual exploitation, and women and girls constitute 80 percent of all trafficking victims.

For an interview with Ambassador Miller, please contact Public Affairs Specialist Caroline Tetschner at (202) 312-9648 or Gannon Sims at (202) 312-9893.

2005/350 Released on March 25, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC March 25, 2005

(Title VIII) will convene, April 14, 2005

Advisory Committee for Study of Eastern Europe and the Independent States of the Former Soviet Union

The Advisory Committee for the Study of Eastern Europe and the Independent States of the Former Soviet Union (Title VIII) will convene on Thursday, April 14, 2005 beginning at 9:30 a.m. in Room 1408 of the U.S. Department of State, Harry S Truman Building, 2201 C Street, NW, Washington, D.C.

The Advisory Committee will recommend grant recipients for the FY 2005 competition of the Program for the Study of Eastern Europe and the Independent States of the Former Soviet Union in connection with the "Research and Training for Eastern Europe and the Independent States of the Former Soviet Union Act of 1983, as amended." The agenda will include opening statements by the Chairman and members of the committee, and, within the committee, discussion, approval, and recommendation that the Department of State negotiate grant agreements with certain "national organizations with an interest and expertise in conducting research and training concerning the countries of Eastern Europe and the Independent States of the Former Soviet Union," based on the guidelines contained in the call for applications published in the Federal Register on December 1, 2004. Following committee deliberation, interested members of the public may make oral statements concerning the Title VIII program in general.

This meeting will be open to the public; however, attendance will be limited to the seating available. Entry into the Harry S Truman building is controlled and must be arranged in advance of the meeting. Those planning to attend should notify Susie Baker, Bureau of Intelligence and Research, U.S. Department of State at (202) 647-0243 by Monday, April 11, 2005, providing the following information: Full Name, Date of Birth, Social Security Number, Country of Citizenship, and any requirements for special needs. All attendees must use the 2201 C Street entrance to the building. Visitors who arrive without prior notification and without photo identification will not be admitted.

2005/343 Released on March 24, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC March 24, 2005

Rafiq Hariri, Fitzgerald Report

Release of the Fitzgerald Inquiry Report

The United States believes the fact-finding report into the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, presented to the Security Council today, raises serious and troubling allegations. We commend the UN mission, led by Deputy Police Commissioner Peter Fitzgerald, for its work and the report.

The United States strongly supports the recommendation of the Fitzgerald report and of the Secretary-General that an independent international commission be entrusted with conducting an investigation.

The report once again makes clear the importance of immediate and full withdrawal of all Syrian military and intelligence forces from Lebanon, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1559.

The Lebanese people deserve a government capable of leading them forward to prompt, free and fair elections, without foreign interference and in the presence of international observers.

2005/348 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC March 24, 2005

H.R. 1160, S. 384

Statement on H.R. 1160, S. 384, On Friday, March 25, 2005, the President signed into law:

H.R. 1160, the "Welfare Reform Extension Act of 2005," which extends certain welfare and related programs that expire on March 31, 2005;

S. 384, which extends the authority for the existence of the Nazi War Crimes and Japanese Imperial Government Records Interagency Working Group by two years, through March 27, 2007.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 25, 2005

H.R. 1160, Welfare Reform Extension Act of 2005 - Amends part A (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) (TANF) of title IV of the Social Security Act to extend through June 30, 2005, the TANF program, the national random sample study of child welfare, and child welfare waiver authority.

S. 384, Amends the Japanese Imperial Government Disclosure Act of 2000 to extend from four to six years the existence of the Nazi War Crimes and Japanese Imperial Government Records Interagency Working Group.

President's Easter Message Easter 2005

President's Easter Message Easter 2005

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

I send greetings to all those celebrating Easter, the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through His sacrifice and triumph over death, Christ lifted the sights of humanity forever. In His teachings, the poor have heard hope, the proud have been challenged, and the weak and dying have found assurance. Today, the words of Jesus continue to comfort and strengthen Christians around the world.

During this holy season, we thank God for His blessings and ask for His wisdom and guidance. We also keep in our thoughts and prayers the men and women of our Armed Forces -- especially those far from home, separated from family and friends by the call of duty. May the joy of Easter fill our hearts with gratitude for our freedom, love for our neighbors, and hope for peace.

Laura and I wish you a Happy Easter. GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary (Crawford, Texas) March 24, 2005

Greek Independence Day, 2005

Greek Independence Day, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Well before modern Greece gained her independence, the ancient Athenians adopted democratic principles that guided their society. These principles inspired our Founding Fathers to proclaim the imperative of self-government as they worked to build our great Nation. America's love for liberty has deep roots in the spirit of Greece. On Greek Independence Day, we celebrate our special ties of friendship, history, and shared values with Greece.

Our country has welcomed generations of Greek immigrants, and we are grateful for their talents, wisdom, and creativity. We honor the Greek spirit that values family and education, public service and faith. Greek Americans have made a mark in every field B- enhancing our culture, enriching our commerce, and defending our freedom. Their strong record of public service has also strengthened our democracy, and their contributions have made America a better place.

As we address the challenges of the 21st century, the United States and Greece remain committed partners in the vital work of advancing freedom and democracy. Our two Nations are founded on shared ideals of liberty, and we are working together to advance those ideals across the world today.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2005, as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty fourth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty ninth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 24, 2005

Latvia Minister of Defense visits Camp Echo

Latvia Minister of Defense visits Camp Echo

CAMP ECHO, Iraq – Republic of Latvia Minister of Defense Einars Repse visited Multi-National Division Central-South here March 22.

The minister met with Multi-National Division Central-South Commanding General Maj. Gen. Waldemar Skrzypczak and was informed about the current situation in division’s area of responsibility.

Latvian Soldiers are an important part of the Multinational Division Central-South and perform excellent duty to help Iraq, according to division officials.
For more information, please contact the Public Information Office of Multi-National Division Central-South, at Thuraya 00 873 762 197 788 or e-mail piomndcs@poczta.onet.pl. SOURCE: multinational force-iraq, Release #050322c

Fish Oil Holds Promise in Alzheimer's Fight

Fish Oil Holds Promise in Alzheimer's Fight March 23, 2005

WASHINGTON -- Even our grandmothers told us fish was “brain food”—and now scientists have evidence to back the claim.

Researchers with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) found that a diet high in docosahexenoic acid, or DHA—an omega-3 fatty acid found in relatively high concentrations in cold-water fish—dramatically slowed the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in mice. Specifically, DHA cut the harmful brain plaques that mark the disease. The results appear in the March 23 online edition of the Journal of Neuroscience.

Senior author Greg M. Cole, Ph.D., a neuroscientist at the Greater Los Angeles VA Healthcare System and UCLA, said that unlike many studies with mice, this one points to the benefits of a therapy that is easily available and already touted for other medical conditions. DHA — either from food sources such as fish and soy, or in fish-oil supplements — is recommended by many cardiologists for heart health, based on scores of previous studies.

“The good news from this study is that we can buy the therapy at a supermarket or drug store,” said Cole. “DHA has a tremendous safety profile — essentially no side effects — and clinical trial evidence supports giving DHA supplements to people at risk for cardiovascular disease.”

The new study involved older mice genetically altered to develop Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers fed one group of the mice DHA-fortified chow. The control mice ate a normal or DHA-depleted diet. After three to five months—the equivalent of several years in human biology—the high-DHA group had 70-percent less buildup of amyloid protein in the brain. This sticky protein makes up the plaques, or patches, that are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s.

A similar study by Cole’s group published in Neuron last fall showed that DHA protected against damage to the “synaptic” areas where brain cells communicate and enabled mice to perform better on memory tests.

The studies, say the scientists, suggest that even people who are genetically predisposed to the disease may be able to delay it by boosting their DHA intake.

Omega-3 fatty acids, typically deficient in the American diet, are essential for human health. DHA in particular is vital to proper brain function, as well as eye health and other body processes. In recent years epidemiologists have tied fish-rich diets to a lower incidence of Alzheimer’s disease and homed in on DHA as the preventive factor. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements are now being tested in clinical trials with early-stage Alzheimer’s patients in the United States, Canada and Sweden to see if the therapy really slows the disease.

Food sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish such as salmon, halibut, mackerel and sardines, as well as almonds, walnuts, soy, and DHA-enriched eggs. Concerns about mercury contamination in fish have helped popularize purified DHA supplements based on fish oil or algae.

Last year, Cole’s team identified another nutrient that appears to combat Alzheimer’s plaques in mice: curcumin, the yellow pigment in turmeric, one of the spices that make up curry powder. Researchers became interested in curcumin’s potential to prevent or treat Alzheimer’s disease after noting the low prevalence of dementia among the elderly in India, where curry is a staple.

Cole is the associate director for research at VA’s Los Angeles-based Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, and a professor of medicine and neurology at UCLA. Lead author for the new study was Giselle P. Lim, PhD, a UCLA postgraduate researcher in Cole’s group. Working with them were colleagues from VA, UCLA and the National Institutes of Health. The study was supported by the National Institute on Aging, VA, the Alzheimer’s Association, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

# # # SOURCE: Department of Veterans Affairs

Norman Y. Mineta Amtrak Reform

U.S. Transportation Secretary Mineta Unveils Key Amtrak Reform Details, Says Rail Plan will Help Complete New Midwest Rail Network

An ambitious project to improve and expand passenger rail service throughout the Midwest would have a partner in the federal government for the first time under the Bush Administration’s proposal to reform Amtrak, U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta said during a news conference at the Detroit railroad station.

Mineta was in Detroit today to unveil details of the Administration’s Amtrak reform proposal, the Passenger Rail Investment Reform Act. The visit was part of a nationwide campaign to reaffirm President Bush’s commitment to intercity passenger rail weeks after the Administration unveiled a budget that proposed an end to taxpayer subsidies for Amtrak until “desperately needed” reforms are made.

“We all know that Amtrak and intercity passenger rail will die if it doesn’t get help soon,” Mineta said. “We have a different vision where a vibrant and viable passenger rail network connects Midwesterners to business and educational opportunities throughout the region.”

Mineta said the Administration’s plan to establish 50-50 federal matching grants for state investments in passenger rail infrastructure, like stations, trains and track, are “the key to revitalizing passenger rail travel in America.” These grants would help fund projects like the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative and give states a “powerful incentive” to invest in better tracks and more reliable equipment, making trains more popular and profitable, decreasing the need for states to pay operating subsidies, Mineta added.

The proposal, Mineta said, would “level the playing field” between Amtrak and its competitors by freeing Amtrak of the cost of maintaining tracks and stations, allowing the company to focus on “running the trains on time.” The plan would also introduce competition for rail service by letting states chose operators to run key routes.

Mineta announced that he will submit the Administration’s Amtrak reform proposal when Congress reconvenes in April. “Our plan will breathe new life into passenger rail,” Mineta said.

DOT 52-05 Thursday, March 24, 2005 Contact: Brian Turmail Tel.: (202) 366-4570 SOURCE: U.S. Department of Transportation