NASA and NOAA Set To Launch New Environmental Satellite

NASA and NOAA Set To Launch New Environmental Satellite

NASA is set to launch the new National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite (POES), another critical link in the development of a global Earth-observation program.

The spacecraft, NOAA-N, will lift off at 6:22 a.m. EDT, May 11, 2005, from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.

"The NOAA-N satellite is key to establishing a strong Global Earth Observation System of Systems, because it will strengthen our understanding about what the environment around the world is doing, not just here in the U.S.," said Gregory Withee, assistant administrator for NOAA's Satellite and Information Service. "From monitoring the ash clouds of Mount St. Helens, to bolstering the U.S. search and rescue network, NOAA-N will be the link in our continued success," he added.

NOAA-N will replace NOAA-16, in operation since September 2000, and join NOAA-17, launched in June 2002. Once in orbit, NOAA-N will be renamed NOAA-18. NOAA maintains a constellation of two primary polar-orbiting satellites. The global data from these satellites are used extensively in NOAA's weather and climate prediction models.

"NASA is proud of our role in building and launching these satellites which contribute to NOAA's vital mission of providing weather forecasts and collecting environmental data about the Earth," said Karen Halterman, NASA POES Project Manager, Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

As it orbits the globe, NOAA-N will collect data about the Earth's surface and atmosphere that are input for NOAA's long-range climate and seasonal outlooks, including forecasts for El Nino and La Nina.

NOAA-N also has instruments used in the international Search and Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking System, called COSPAS-SARSAT, which was established in 1982. NOAA polar-orbiting satellites detect emergency beacon distress signals and relay their location to ground stations, so rescue can be dispatched. SARSAT is credited with saving approximately 5,000 lives in the U.S. and more than 18,000 worldwide.

NOAA-N is the fifteenth in a series of polar-orbiting satellites dating back to 1978. NOAA-N has imaging and sounding capabilities that are broadcast around the world and recorded on board for playback over NOAA ground stations. There is one more satellite in this series scheduled for launch in December 2007.

NOAA's next generation of polar spacecraft, the National Polar-Orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS), is planned for launch in early 2010. NPOESS is a combined program with NOAA, the Department of Defense and NASA.

NOAA manages the POES program and establishes requirements, provides all funding and distributes environmental satellite data for the United States. NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center procures and manages the development and launch of the satellites for NOAA on a cost-reimbursable basis.

Twenty-one days after the satellite is launched, NASA will transfer operational control to NOAA. NASA's comprehensive on-orbit verification period is expected to last approximately 45 days after launch.

For information about NASA, NOAA-N and polar orbiting satellites on the Web, visit::
nasa.gov/home/, nasa.gov/noaa-n, goespoes.gsfc.nasa.gov,
noaa.gov and nws.noaa.gov

Erica Hupp/Dolores Beasley, Headquarters, Washington (Phone: 202/358-1237/1753)

Cynthia M. O'Carroll, Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md. (Phone: 301/286-4647)

John Leslie, NOAA Satellites & Information Service, Suitland, Md.(Phone: 301/457-5005), May 4, 2005 RELEASE: 05-117

Sea Turtle Conservation and Shrimp Imports

Sea Turtle Conservation and Shrimp Imports

On April 28, the U.S. Department of State certified 37 nations and one economy as meeting the requirements set by Section 609 of Public Law 101-162 for continued importation of shrimp into the United States. Section 609 prohibits importation of shrimp and products of shrimp harvested in a manner that may adversely affect sea turtle species. This import prohibition does not apply in cases where the Department of State certifies annually to Congress, not later than May 1, that the government of the harvesting nation has taken certain specific measures to reduce the incidental taking of sea turtles in its shrimp trawl fisheries -- or that the fishing environment of the harvesting nation does not pose a threat to sea turtle species. Such certifications are based in part on verification visits made to countries by teams of experts from the State Department and the U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service.

The chief component of the U.S. sea turtle conservation program is a requirement that commercial shrimp boats use sea turtle excluder devices (TEDs) to prevent the accidental drowning of sea turtles in shrimp trawls. The thirteen nations meeting this standard are: Belize, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Suriname, and Venezuela.

Twenty-four nations and one economy were certified as having fishing environments that do not pose a danger to sea turtles. Of these, eight nations and one economy -- the Bahamas, China, the Dominican Republic, Fiji, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Oman, Peru and Sri Lanka -- harvest shrimp using manual rather than mechanical means to retrieve nets, or use other fishing methods not harmful to sea turtles. Sixteen nations have shrimp fisheries only in cold waters, where the risk of taking sea turtles is negligible. They are: Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Uruguay. Trinidad and Tobago and Cost Rica are currently uncertified.

Importation of shrimp from all other nations will be prohibited unless harvested by aquaculture methodology (fish-farming), in cold-water regions where sea turtles are not likely found, or by specialized fishing techniques that do not threaten sea turtles. If any of these situations apply, the shipment must be accompanied by a Department of State DS-2031 form signed by the exporter and importer and certified by a government official of the harvesting nation. Users should note that exception 7.A.(2) on the form "Harvested Using TEDs" is currently a valid exception to the prohibition on imports from nations not certified under Public Law 101-162. However, the Department of State must determine that a country wishing to use this exception has in place an enforcement and catch segregation system for making such individual shipment certifications. Presently, only Brazil and Australia have shown that they have a system in place for specific fisheries.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005 2005/467 Released on May 4, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC

Fifteenth World Press Freedom Day

Fifteenth World Press Freedom Day

The United States is pleased to celebrate World Press Freedom Day. Events during the last year again demonstrated the crucial role the press plays to advance the struggle for freedom. In Ukraine, the courage of journalists who rejected attempts by the previous regime to manipulate reports about the presidential election helped launch the Orange Revolution and led directly to the country’s democratic breakthrough. In the Kyrgyz Republic and Lebanon independent media provided citizens with crucial information to defend their right to choose their own governments.

In support of freedom of expression, the United States works with foreign journalists and media organizations to help build their capacity to gather and report news. The Department’s Human Rights and Democracy Fund annually provides $3 million in grants for journalism training, and the development of independent printing presses, and radio and TV stations. The International Visitor Program and other U.S.-sponsored exchange programs assist foreign journalists in developing professional contacts with their U.S. counterparts.

Journalism is often a dangerous profession. Today, we take this opportunity to express solidarity with the brave journalists who risk their lives to inform the public and express their views. We reaffirm our support for the many organizations that work to protect the rights of independent media and support the work of journalists around the world. The United States will continue working to advance press freedom as a key part of our efforts to promote democracy and human rights.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/464 Released on May 3, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC

Nepal – Lifting of State of Emergency

Nepal – Lifting of State of Emergency (Taken Question)

Question: Can you give us an update on the situation in Nepal?What is your reaction to the decision of the King to lift the state of emergency?

Answer: The United States welcomes the Government of Nepal’s decision to lift the State of Emergency on April 29, and its decision to release several political party leaders from house arrest. However, more needs to be done. We urge the government to release all political detainees and to ensure the protection of fundamental rights in Nepal. Ultimately, Nepal needs to return to an electoral democracy.

We also encourage the political parties and the Palace to move towards reconciliation. Unity among Nepal's legitimate political forces is a necessary step for Nepal to achieve a functioning, stable democracy, and effectively address the Maoist insurgency.
The United States will continue to support progress in these efforts as we consult closely with other friends of Nepal.

2005/465 Released on May 3, 2005 Taken Question Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 3, 2005 Question Taken at the Daily Press Briefing of May 3, 2005

100th Article 98 Agreement

U.S. Signs 100th Article 98 Agreement

The United States welcomes the signing of the 100th Article 98 Agreement. On May 2, 2005, Angola became the 100th country to conclude such an agreement with the United States. These bilateral agreements, which are provided for under Article 98 of the Rome Statute, ensure that U.S. persons will not be surrendered to the International Criminal Court without our consent. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Constance Newman signed the Article 98 Agreement on behalf of the United States and Ambassador Josefina Perpetua Pitra Diakite signed on behalf of Angola.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/463 Released on May 3, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 3, 2005

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

U.S. Contributes Additional $72.5 Million to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

The United States is pleased to announce an additional contribution of $72.5 million to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for its 2005 Annual Programs, bringing the U.S. contribution to UNHCR for fiscal year 2005 to over $231 million.

This funding will allow the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to aid approximately 17 million people. This contribution will provide assistance as follows:

Africa - $45.8 million

Central Asia/Southwest Asia/North Africa/Middle East - $12.8 million

Europe - $7.5 million

Asia and Pacific - $3.2 million

Western Hemisphere - $2.4 million

Global Operations - $0.75 million

The United States believes that the protection and care of refugees and the pursuit of durable solutions for them are shared international responsibilities. The United States is the single largest donor country to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, doing our part to protect and assist refugees throughout the world. The United States urges other donors to strengthen their efforts in support of the programs of the UNHCR.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/462 Released on May 3, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC

Dr. William J. Luti NSC

Statement on NSC Appointment

Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs Stephen J. Hadley announced today, the appointment of William J. Luti as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Defense Policy and Strategy.

Most recently, Dr. Luti served as the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Near Eastern and South Asian Affairs. Prior to joining the Defense Department, Dr. Luti served as a Special Advisor for National Security Affairs to Vice President Cheney. He previously served for 26 years as a naval officer in a wide variety of operational and policy positions including command of an aviation squadron, an amphibious assault ship and an amphibious ready group.

Dr. Luti received his bachelor's degree from The Citadel, a masters degree from the U.S. Naval War College, and a masters in law and diplomacy and PhD in international relations from Tufts University's Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 3, 2005

National Day of Prayer, 2005

UPDATE: Thursday, February 02, 2006 Bush, Bono, National Prayer Breakfast - FULL STREAMING VIDEO, President Attends 54th Annual National Prayer Breakfast, Hilton Washington Hotel, Washington, D.C., 9:09 A.M. EST.

National Day of Prayer, 2005 A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Since our Nation's earliest days, prayer has given strength and comfort to Americans of all faiths. Our Founding Fathers relied on their faith to guide them as they built our democracy. Today, we continue to be inspired by God's blessings, mercy, and boundless love. As we observe this National Day of Prayer, we humbly acknowledge our reliance on the Almighty, express our gratitude for His blessings, and seek His guidance in our daily lives.

Throughout our history, our Nation has turned to prayer for strength and guidance in times of challenge and uncertainty. The Continental Congress, meeting in 1775, asked the colonies to pray for wisdom in forming a new Nation. Throughout the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln issued exhortations to prayer, calling upon the American people to humble themselves before their Maker and to serve all those in need. At the height of World War II, President Franklin Roosevelt led our citizens in prayer over the radio, asking for God to protect our sons in battle. Today, our Nation prays for those who serve bravely in the United States Armed Forces in difficult missions around the world, and we pray for their families.

Across our country, Americans turn daily to God in reverence. We ask Him to care for all those who suffer or feel helpless, knowing that God sees their needs and calls on us to meet them. As our first President wrote in 1790, "May the father of all mercies scatter light and not darkness in our paths . . .". As we face the challenges of our times, God's purpose continues to guide us, and we continue to trust in the goodness of His plans.

The Congress by Public Law 100-307, as amended, has called on our citizens to reaffirm the role of prayer in our society and to honor the freedom of religion by recognizing annually a "National Day of Prayer."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 5, 2005, as a National Day of Prayer. I ask the citizens of our Nation to give thanks, each according to his or her own faith, for the liberty and blessings we have received and for God's continued guidance and protection. I also urge all Americans to join in observing this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of May, 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 May 3, 2005

Older Americans Month, 2005

Older Americans Month, 2005 A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Older Americans teach us the timeless lessons of courage, sacrifice, and love. By sharing their wisdom and experience, they serve as role models for future generations. During Older Americans Month, we pay tribute to our senior citizens and their contributions to our Nation.

Our seniors deserve our greatest respect. Their example shows us how to persevere in the face of hardship, care for others in need, and take pride in our communities. Their patriotism, service, and leadership inspire Americans and shape the character and future of our country.

Millions of Americans are now living longer, more productive lives, and many are choosing to stay active in the workforce. Senior citizens are also giving their time and talents by volunteering in many ways -- from mentoring youth and participating in environmental stewardship projects to serving the homeless and assisting in emergency preparedness. More than 500,000 senior citizens volunteer through Senior Corps, a network of programs that enables older Americans to meet the needs and challenges of their communities. Through the USA Freedom Corps and Senior Corps, older Americans are dedicating their time and energy to strengthening our Nation and serving a cause greater than themselves.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Older Americans Act of 1965, which was created to improve the welfare of our seniors. By treating older Americans with the dignity and respect they deserve, we honor their legacy and contributions to our Nation. Their guidance and love enrich our country and make America a better place for all.

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 May 2005 as Older Americans Month. I commend our senior citizens for their many contributions to our society. I also commend the network of Federal, State, local, and tribal organizations, service and health care providers, caregivers, and dedicated volunteers who work on behalf of our senior citizens. I encourage all Americans to honor their elders, to care for those in need, and to publicly reaffirm our Nation's commitment to older Americans this month and throughout the year.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of May, 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 May 3, 2005

Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, 2005

Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Millions of Americans proudly trace their ancestry to the many nations that make up Asia and the Pacific islands. For generations, Americans of Asian/Pacific heritage have strengthened our Nation through their achievements in all walks of life, including business, politics, education, community service, the arts, and science.

This month we honor Asian/Pacific Americans for their contributions to our Nation's growth and development and to the spread of freedom around the world. This year's theme, "Liberty and Freedom for All," honors the sacrifices of Asian/Pacific Americans in the defense of freedom and democracy. We remember the bravery of soldiers of Asian/Pacific descent who have served in our military. These proud patriots stepped forward and fought for the security of our country and the peace of the world, and they will always hold a cherished place in our history. As we confront the challenges of the 21st century and fight the war on terror, Americans of Asian/Pacific descent continue to serve in the Armed Forces and are working to secure our homeland and promote peace and liberty around the world. Their dedication and patriotism uphold the highest ideals of our country.

To honor the achievements and contributions of Asian/Pacific Americans, the Congress by Public Law 102 450 as amended, has designated the month of May each year as "Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 2005 as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month. I call upon the people of the United States to learn more about the history of Asian/Pacific Americans and their many contributions to our Nation and to observe this week with appropriate programs and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of May, 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 May 3, 2005

60th Anniversary of the End of World War II

National Observance of the 60th Anniversary of the End of World War II, 2005
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Sixty years ago, the flags of freedom unfurled across Europe and Asia as victorious American and Allied troops brought World War II to an end. Freedom prevailed when millions were liberated from oppression and tyranny was replaced by democracy.

The years of World War II were a hard, heroic, and gallant time in the life of our country. When it mattered most, a generation of Americans showed the finest qualities of our Nation and of humanity. More than 16 million Americans served during World War II, putting on the uniform of the Soldier, the Sailor, the Airman, the Marine, the Coast Guardsman, or the Merchant Mariner. They were the sons and daughters of a peaceful country, who gave the best years of their lives to the greatest mission our country ever accepted. They earned 464 Medals of Honor, and over 400,000 made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. Millions more supported the war effort at home -- caring for the injured and working in factories to provide supplies to those fighting in distant places like Midway, Normandy, Iwo Jima, and Bastogne.

As the war drew to a close, Americans remained united in support of the vital cause of restoring the liberty of mankind. When the end of the war in Europe was announced on May 8, 1945, hundreds of people rushed to the White House to celebrate the triumph of freedom. President Harry Truman addressed the American people from the White House and said, "For this victory, we join in offering our thanks to the Providence which has guided and sustained us through the dark days of adversity." In the following months, the war in the Pacific was won and a grateful Nation began welcoming home liberty's heroes. Many who had left America's farms and cities as young men and women returned as seasoned veterans ready to finish their education, start families, and assume leadership roles in their communities.

Today, as we wage the war on terror and work to extend peace and freedom around the world, our service men and women follow in the footsteps of our World War II veterans by upholding the noble tradition of duty, honor, and love of country. Like generations before them, America's Armed Forces are among the world's greatest forces for good, answering today's dangers and challenges with firm resolve. Their vital mission will help secure our Nation in a new century, and all Americans are grateful for their courage, devotion to duty, and sacrifice.

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 2005 as the National Observance of the 60th Anniversary of the End of World War II. I urge all Americans to mark this observance with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities in honor of the Americans who served in World War II and all those who supported and contributed their efforts from the home front during this extraordinary time in history.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of May, 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 May 3, 2005

Robert M. Kimmitt Deputy Secretary Treasury

President George W. Bush today announced his intention to nominate one individual to serve in his Administration:

The President intends to nominate Robert M. Kimmitt to be Deputy Secretary of the Treasury. Ambassador Kimmitt currently serves as Chairman of the International Advisory Council for Time Warner Incorporated, and as Senior International Counsel at Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale & Dorr. He previously served as Executive Vice President for Global Public Policy at Time Warner. Prior to joining Time Warner, Ambassador Kimmitt was Vice Chairman and President of Commerce One. Earlier in his career, he served as Managing Director of Lehman Brothers and as U.S. Ambassador to Germany. Prior to these positions, Ambassador Kimmitt served as Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs and as General Counsel of the Department of the Treasury. He earned his bachelor's degree from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and his J.D. from Georgetown University.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 3, 2005 Personnel Announcement

DoD to Resume Anthrax Vaccinations

DoD to Resume Anthrax Vaccinations

The Department of Defense announced today a resumption of its Anthrax Vaccine Immunization Program (AVIP) under the conditions set forth in the emergency use authorization (EUA) issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Jan. 27, 2005.

Based on the implementing memorandum signed by the under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness on April 29, military commanders may resume the vaccination program upon authorization by their service. The directive memos also will be available at: http://www.anthrax.mil/eua .

The implementing program requires commanders to follow EUA conditions very carefully, providing members of the armed services both education on the program and an option to refuse the vaccination without penalty.

Dr. William Winkenwerder, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said this directive “is a significant step that allows the department to resume this vital protection measure for military personnel, who are at increased risk of exposure to an anthrax attack. We are pleased to be able to again protect our personnel against anthrax.”

On April 6, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted the government’s motion to modify the court's AVIP injunction against mandatory anthrax vaccination from Oct. 27, 2004. This modification allowed the department to resume its anthrax vaccine program to prevent inhalation anthrax for designated personnel.

Once vaccinations begin, DoD will provide an education and information program, including an FDA-approved brochure, to inform potential vaccine recipients and healthcare providers that FDA has authorized the emergency use of anthrax vaccine to prevent inhalation anthrax. Personnel will also be informed about the vaccine’s benefits and side effects before they are asked to decide about vaccination.

For the most part, vaccinations during the period of the EUA will be limited to military units designated for homeland bioterrorism defense and to U.S. forces assigned to the Central Command area of responsibility and Korea.

Anthrax is a deadly infection, and anthrax vaccine is an important force protection measure. In the fall of 2001, 22 cases of anthrax resulted from attacks with anthrax spores. Five people died in these attacks.

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. 424-05 IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 3, 2005

Treasury Announces Market Financing Estimates

Treasury Announces Market Financing Estimates

The Treasury Department announced today that it expects to pay down $42 billion in net marketable debt during the April – June 2005 quarter. The estimated cash balance on June 30 is $20 billion. On January 31, Treasury announced a net market borrowing of $12 billion with an end-of-quarter cash balance of $15 billion. The decrease in borrowing is primarily the result of higher individual tax receipts and State and Local Government Series security issuances.

Treasury also announced that it expects net borrowing of marketable debt to total $103 billion in the July – September 2005 quarter. The estimated cash balance on September 30 is $30 billion.

During the January – March 2005 quarter, Treasury's net borrowing of marketable debt totaled $144 billion and the cash balance on March 31 was $22 billion. On January 31, Treasury announced that it expected net borrowing of marketable debt to total $147 billion with an estimated end-of-quarter cash balance of $10 billion. The higher cash balance is primarily the result of larger-than-projected issuances of State and Local Government Series securities.

Additional financing details relating to Treasury's Quarterly Refunding will be released at 9:00 A.M. on Wednesday, May 4.

- 30 - SOURCE: United States Department of the Treasury May 2, 2005 JS-2414

Federal Open Market Committee raise rate by 25 basis points

The Federal Open Market Committee decided today to raise its target for the federal funds rate by 25 basis points to 3 percent.

The Committee believes that, even after this action, the stance of monetary policy remains accommodative and, coupled with robust underlying growth in productivity, is providing ongoing support to economic activity. Recent data suggest that the solid pace of spending growth has slowed somewhat, partly in response to the earlier increases in energy prices. Labor market conditions, however, apparently continue to improve gradually. Pressures on inflation have picked up in recent months and pricing power is more evident.

The Committee perceives that, with appropriate monetary policy action, the upside and downside risks to the attainment of both sustainable growth and price stability should be kept roughly equal. With underlying inflation expected to be contained, the Committee believes that policy accommodation can be removed at a pace that is likely to be measured. Nonetheless, the Committee will respond to changes in economic prospects as needed to fulfill its obligation to maintain price stability.

Voting for the FOMC monetary policy action were: Alan Greenspan, Chairman; Timothy F. Geithner, Vice Chairman; Susan S. Bies; Roger W. Ferguson, Jr.; Richard W. Fisher; Edward M. Gramlich; Donald L. Kohn; Michael H. Moskow; Mark W. Olson; Anthony M. Santomero; and Gary H. Stern.

In a related action, the Board of Governors unanimously approved a 25-basis-point increase in the discount rate to 4 percent. In taking this action, the Board approved the requests submitted by the Boards of Directors of the Federal Reserve Banks of Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Cleveland, Richmond, Atlanta, Chicago, St. Louis, Minneapolis, Kansas City, Dallas, and San Francisco.

SOURCE: federalreserve.gov/ Release Date: May 3, 2005 For immediate release 2005 Monetary policy

VA Awards Grant to Louisiana Veterans Home

VA Awards Grant to Louisiana Veterans Home

WASHINGTON – Making sure that Louisiana has comfortable residences for its veterans, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is targeting $12.3 million in grant money to construct a new facility in Bossier City.

"This grant honors our commitment to care for the men and women who have served in uniform," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson. "Our federal-state partnership will provide a comfortable home for Louisiana’s veterans in a time of great personal need."

The grant will pay up to 65 percent of the costs for constructing a new 156-bed nursing home in Bossier City. Louisiana already operates veterans homes in Jackson, Jennings and Monroe.

In fiscal year 2005, VA expects to spend about $1 billion in Louisiana to serve more than 360,000 veterans who live in the state. The department operates major medical centers in Alexandria, New Orleans and Shreveport, as well as several outpatient clinics.

Information about the veterans homes in Louisiana is available on the Web at vetaffairs.com/vahomes. SOURCE: Department of Veterans Affairs # # # April 28, 2005

U.S. Transportation Loan For The Miami Intermodal Center

Innovative Loan For The Miami Intermodal Center Will Lower Costs, Speed Construction And Reduce Congestion, Bush Administration Promotes Financing Tool To Advance Transportation Projects

U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta today announced a $170 million loan for the Miami Intermodal Center (MIC), which will provide safe and efficient access to transit, rail, bus, taxi and other transportation services near Miami International Airport.

The new loan is the second of two federal government loans to the Florida Department of Transportation for the MIC. The loan announced today will be used to consolidate rental car facilities into one location, improving access for users and reducing congestion around the airport terminal.

The first loan, worth $269 million, was given in 2000, and was used to improve area roads, including NW 14 St., NW 37th Ave. and LeJeune Road, an important access route to the airport. Together, the loans are expected to accelerate the MIC project’s completion and reduce its cost.

“This loan will give the project the jumpstart it needs to deliver better transportation options to residents and visitors sooner,” said Secretary Mineta
.
"I value the partnership between the federal and state governments to secure innovative financing for the Miami Intermodal Center (MIC), which will save both time and money," said Governor Jeb Bush. "Thanks to this loan, our citizens, visitors and businesses in the Miami area will all benefit from speeding up the completion of this vital project."

The loan was made under a financing program established by the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA). The credit assistance program helps state and local governments deliver transportation projects using innovative funding sources, including private capital. By blending public and private funding sources, the loans advance large, capital-intensive transportation improvements that otherwise might be delayed or not built at all.

“This project demonstrates that mainstreaming non-traditional, innovative financing can deliver needed transportation improvements faster and at less cost to American taxpayers,” said Federal Highway Administrator Mary E. Peters.

The Bush Administration wants to expand the successful loan program so that more projects around the country are eligible for assistance similar to that provided to the MIC. The Administration’s surface transportation proposal, now under consideration by Congress, contains a number of measures that encourage private sector investment in transportation.

-END- SOURCE: DOT 68-05 Monday, May 2, 2005 Contact: Nancy Singer Tel.: (202) 366-0660

President to Welcome Presidents from Central American and Dominican Republic

President to Welcome Presidents from Central American and Dominican Republic

President Bush will welcome President Abel Pacheco of Costa Rica, President Leonel Fernandez of the Dominican Republic, President Elias Antonio Saca of El Salvador, President Oscar Berger of Guatemala, President Ricardo Maduro of Honduras, and President Enrique Bolanos of Nicaragua to the White House for a meeting on May 12, 2005. The President looks forward to discussing with his colleagues the Central American and Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), as well as efforts to advance our common goal of a more democratic and prosperous Western Hemisphere.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 2, 2005

nominate R. Thomas Weimer, designate David A. Sampson

President George W. Bush today announced his intention to nominate one individual and designate one individual to serve in his Administration: The President intends to nominate R. Thomas Weimer, of Colorado, to be Assistant Secretary of the Interior (Policy, Management and Budget). Mr. Weimer currently serves as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the Department of the Interior. He previously worked in the Office of Federal Government Relations for the University of California as Legislative Director for National Laboratory Affairs. Earlier in his career, Mr. Weimer served as Subcommittee Staff Director for the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Science. He received his bachelor's degree and first master's degree from Harvey Mudd College and his second master's degree from the University of Washington. The President intends to designate David A. Sampson, of Texas, to be Acting Deputy Secretary of Commerce.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 2, 2005 Personnel Announcement

U.S. Signs Open Skies Aviation Agreement with Paraguay

U.S. Signs Open Skies Aviation Agreement with Paraguay

The United States is pleased to announce the signing of an Open Skies air transport agreement with Paraguay. U.S. Ambassador to Paraguay John F. Keane and Acting Paraguayan Minister of Foreign Affairs Marciel Bobadilla Guillen signed the agreement on May 2, 2005 during a ceremony held in Asunción.

This agreement modernizes U.S.-Paraguayan aviation relations by allowing airlines to make commercial decisions with minimal government intervention. It provides for open routes, capacity, frequencies, designations, and pricing, as well as opportunities for cooperative marketing arrangements, including code-sharing. It also includes all-cargo seventh freedom rights, allowing airlines to perform international cargo operations without connecting to their homeland.

Establishing Open Skies as the basis of U.S.-Paraguayan aviation relations is an important step toward spurring trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two nations.

With this signing, Paraguay is the 68th country with which the United States has negotiated a bilateral Open Skies agreement.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/458 Released on May 2, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 2, 2005

Joint United States – France Statement on Lebanon

Joint United States – France Statement on Lebanon, Following is the text of a joint United States – France statement on Lebanon.

BEGIN TEXT:

Lebanon is a sovereign, independent state that aspires to freedom and democracy. The United States and France, together with the rest of the international community, pledged in Resolution 1559 to stand with Lebanon in fulfilling these aspirations. We support the extension of the sole and exclusive control of the Government of Lebanon over all Lebanese territory, and stand ready to assist in this. We expect the full implementation of all provisions of the Resolution. We expect all parties to cooperate fully to this end within the ongoing political process.

The UN Secretary-General's report on the implementation of Resolution 1559 notes Syria's announced withdrawal of its troops and intelligence apparatus. A UN team is now in Lebanon to verify the completion of this withdrawal. The end of any residual Syrian presence or continued interference in Lebanon is necessary to establish a balanced and equitable relationship between the two countries.

France and the United States also expect the immediate implementation of Resolution 1595 establishing an international commission of inquiry to investigate the assassination of Mr. Hariri and the other murdered Lebanese citizens. We expect the parties concerned to cooperate fully to uncover the truth. The commission must deploy to Lebanon soon in order to properly investigate this terrorist attack.

We welcome the formation of a new Lebanese government which has pledged to hold free and fair democratic elections beginning at the end of May in accordance with the constitution and using a balloting method accepted by all parties. We welcome the Lebanese government's acceptance of UN technical assistance to prepare for the upcoming parliamentary elections and we expect the Lebanese authorities to invite an independent international team of observers to monitor the entire electoral process itself. The international community is ready to assist in this effort.

France and the United States stand ready to respond to requests for assistance by a sovereign and democratic Lebanese government formed as a result of the forthcoming elections.

END TEXT. SOURCE: state.gov 2005/459 Released on May 2, 2005 Joint Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 2, 2005

Expansion of GovBenefits.gov

Labor Department Announces Expansion of GovBenefits.gov, Award-Winning Web site Now Features GovLoans.gov En Español , More Programs

WASHINGTON—U.S. Deputy Secretary of Labor Steven J. Law today announced the launch of GovLoans.gov en Español and the expansion of the GovBenefits.gov Web site to more than 1,000 federal and state benefit programs. The announcement was made during a celebration of the Web site's third anniversary.

GovLoans.gov En Español offers Spanish-speaking communities greater access to available federal and state loan program information. GovBenefits.gov was among the Top 25 finalists for the 2005 Excellence.gov Award from the Industry Advisory Council. The Web site is one of the key initiatives that comprise the President's E-Government Strategy which focuses on making government programs and information more accessible to the public.

“GovBenefits.gov offers diverse and extensive benefit program information for veterans, seniors, students, teachers, children, people with disabilities, dependents, disaster victims, farmers, caregivers, job seekers, prospective homeowners and more,” said Deputy Secretary Law. “The Web site has attracted more than 17 million visitors since it went online in April 2002, increasing citizens' access to benefit programs and information they may not have known existed.”

Joining Law for the celebration event were Karen Evans, administrator of the Office of Management and Budget's Office of e-Government and Information Technology, and Patrick Pizzella, assistant secretary of labor for administration and management and chief information officer (CIO).

Managed by the Department of Labor, GovBenefits.gov also announced the launch of “Customized Connections,” which allows agencies to customize their Web sites with GovBenefits.gov functionality. Specifically, agencies can reuse the GovBenefits.gov pre-screening questionnaire and search capabilities, while maintaining their own branding and overall design.

GovBenefits.gov is a collaborative effort of 10 federal agencies, including the Departments of Labor, Agriculture, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, State, Veterans Affairs, and the Social Security Administration.

Media Availability: Either Assistant Secretary and CIO Pizzella or a GovBenefits.gov expert is available for interviews. Please call 202-693-7909 or 693-4676 to schedule an interview.

SOURCE: The United States Department of Labor OPA News Release: [04/29/2005]Contact Name: Peggy Abrahamson or Camille Anderson Phone Number: (202) 693-4676 or x7909 Release Number: 05-597-NAT

CONSULAR OFFICER PLED GUILTY

FORMER STATE DEPARTMENT CHIEF CONSULAR OFFICER PLED GUILTY TO RECEIVING ILLEGAL BENEFITS FROM FOREIGN NATIONALS

WASHINGTON, DC-Christopher A. Wray, Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, and Joe Morton, Acting Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Diplomatic Security, U.S. Department of State, announced today that Patricia Raikes, a former State Department employee and former Chief Consular Officer at the United States Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, pled guilty to a one count information charging her with a conflict of interest in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 209 and 216. The Honorable Ricardo M. Urbina of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia set Raikes’ sentencing for August 16, 2005.

According to the plea documents, Raikes, as Chief Consular Officer, was responsible for oversight of the full range of consular activities at the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon, including the issuance of visas and the enforcement of established embassy regulations. From 1999 through 2001, while serving as Chief Consular Officer, Raikes received thousands of dollars of benefits from foreign businesspeople in the form of paid airline travel and hotel stays for Raikes and her family members. After receiving these benefits, Raikes subsequently issued and/or approved more than 35 visa applications submitted or referred by the aforementioned foreign businesspeople. The plea documents further stated that many of the individuals who received visas issued and/or approved by Raikes were in fact ineligible to have received tourist visas under the then-existing embassy policy.

This matter was handled by Trial Attorneys Peter R. Zeidenberg and Sabrina A. Houlton of the Public Integrity Section, headed by Section Chief Noel L. Hillman. This matter was investigated by the Diplomatic Security Service. ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2005 SOURCE: USDOJ.GOV CRM (202) 514-2008 TDD (202) 514-1888

Special Trustee for American Indians (OST)

The Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians (OST) Opens Nationwide Trust Beneficiary Call Center, toll-free (888) 678-6836 ext. 888

New OST Trust Beneficiary Call Center is a toll-free information center for all Indian Trust beneficiaries.

During the first four-and-a-half months of pilot testing focused on the Concho and Anadarko agencies in Oklahoma, Call Center staff handled more than 18,000 phone calls from Indian Trust beneficiaries.

More than 94% of all calls were resolved immediately, with staff providing answers to inquiries in a matter of minutes.

Indian Trust beneficiaries now have a nationwide toll-free location to call for information on their trust account.

OST began the Trust Beneficiary Call Center service as a pilot-program in the Concho and Anadarko agencies in Oklahoma. By December of 2005, beneficiaries across the nation will have direct access to the Call Center, without even having to dial an extension.

During the first four-and-a-half months of operation, Call Center staff members answered 18,908 calls from Indian Trust account holders. The majority of calls were concerning specific account information, but many callers asked questions about other issues such as realty, mineral leases, and new probate laws. Of these calls, 17,775 of the callers had their questions answered immediately. In the past, callers may have contacted their local BIA office, where employees often had to spend many hours finding answers to inquiries. By contacting the Call Center, it is estimated that more than 963 hours were saved for Department of the Interior field staff to focus on other Indian trust-related issues.

According to Special Trustee Ross Swimmer, "This is the first time Indian Trust beneficiaries have had a convenient, one-stop resource for trust asset information. In a matter of minutes, beneficiaries can now get answers to their questions. In the past it could take hours or days of telephone tag between Interior employees for people to get answers. The time saved by Interior field staff, who now can focus on their responsibilities to beneficiaries, is invaluable for Indian Country and is sure to translate into increased productivity."

Call Center staff also help with other Indian Affairs projects, such as locating Indian trust account holders who do not have a current address on file, and whose whereabouts are unknown. Last year, one Call Center staff member was able to help identify a trust beneficiary whose whereabouts were previously unknown, and who had more than $100,000 in an Indian Trust account.

The new Trust Beneficiary Call Center is just one of a number of trust reform efforts that Interior is undertaking to improve both services and information for Indian Trust beneficiaries across the country. Other projects include providing Direct Deposit of funds for account holders, creating a nationwide system for all trust data, establishing a secure "lock-box" procedure for collections, and updating trust asset title information. All of these projects fall under the umbrella of the Fiduciary Trust Model adopted by the Department of the Interior in 2004. For a copy of the model, see doi.gov/ost.

The Trust Beneficiary Call Center is open from Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, Mountain Time. Hours will be extended to evenings and weekends in coming months. -DOI-

SOURCE: U.S. Department of the Interior OFFICE OF THE SPECIAL TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN INDIANS Contact: Maria Streshinsky FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 2, 2005 (202) 208-4289

William O. Russell Housing Authority of Sarasota (HACS)

NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SELECTED TO RUN SARASOTA HOUSING AUTHORITY

Former HUD employee responsible for managing housing and community development programs and policies in New York City selected to help improve public housing

WASHINGTON - The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), as receiver of the Housing Authority of Sarasota (HACS), has selected William O. Russell as the new executive director of the troubled housing authority.

Russell most recently served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Public Housing and Voucher Programs at HUD. In this capacity, he directed operations of HUD's public housing and Section 8 - the agency's two largest programs with a budget totaling $18 billion. He managed a staff of more than 200 employees at Headquarters and HUD's regional offices.

"As receiver of this housing authority, I now know first hand the kind of leadership lacking at HACS," said Carmen Valenti, the HUD-appointed receiver, who serves as the HACS board of commissioners. "In his time at HUD, Mr. Russell has demonstrated his ability to manage people, execute budgets and develop policies and procedures to improve operations. We are confident Mr. Russell will serve the people of Sarasota well.

Russell will begin his official duties at HACS on May 16, with an annual salary of $140,000. He will be responsible for managing day-to-day operations of the housing authority. This will include ensuring the 588 public housing units and 780 Section 8 units are safe, decent and sanitary for the residents. He will also work closely on the transformation of the housing authority by building ties with residents and the local community.

Prior to HUD, Russell managed all housing and community development programs and policies for former New York City Mayor Rudolf Giuliani. He advised and coordinated with the city's housing agencies on legislative developments.

Russell has a master's degree in Public Administration from the Maxwell School of Citizenship & Public Affairs and a bachelor's degree from Millsaps College in Jackson, Miss.

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development as well as enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at hud.gov/ and espanol.hud.gov. ###

HUD No. 05-064 Donna White (202) 708-0685 hud.gov/news/ For Release Monday May 2, 2005

Arab Women"s Business Summit Tunis

Upcoming Business Women’s Summit Will Advance Leadership and Entrepreneurial Skills of Arab Women

The Middle East Partnership Initiative will host a three-day forum in Tunis May 24-26, 2005 featuring practical business training for almost 200 women entrepreneurs from 16 countries and territories in the Middle East and North Africa. The attendees are recognized businesswomen and organizational leaders from the region and are graduates of Middle East Partnership Initiative programs, such as the Middle East Entrepreneur Training in the U.S. and Business Internship Program. They demonstrate strong leadership abilities and a desire to expand economic opportunities and spur job growth in their countries. The conference is timely as the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) is becoming a new global market opportunity, and entrepreneurs across the region are pursuing economic reforms as well as business challenges.

Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs Paula Dobriansky will offer the keynote address on the opening day of the conference on the theme of women’s potential to expand their business leadership to other realms, including the advancement of democracy and women’s empowerment. The U.S. delegation also includes Assistant Secretary of State for Education and Cultural Affairs, Patricia Harrison, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, Elizabeth Cheney, and Vice Chair, Export-Import Bank, April Foley. American businesswomen will provide training under the auspices of WE, Inc., an American nonprofit business association advocating policy solutions that encourage business ownership by women and that assist entrepreneurs at all stages of their business development.

Women attendees will build peer networks, learn from regional and American experts, and find new venture partners. As business owners and executives, they recognize their leading role in economic reform through business expansion, entry into international trade, and dynamic joint ventures to take advantage of the opportunities offered by reformed economic systems and trade agreements.

The forum organizer is the Beyster Institute at the Rady School, University of California, San Diego, which is implementing the Middle East Entrepreneurship Training in the U.S., also a Middle East Partnership Initiative. More information about the Middle East Partnership Initiative can be found at: mepi.state.gov.

2005/456 Released on May 2, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 2, 2005

Whitehouse Correspondents Dinner 04/30/05

Whitehouse Correspondents Dinner - First Lady Laura Bush roasts the President. real media format. Running time is 1:57:35. Stage presentations begin at aprox. 56:40, Laura Bush at aprox. 1:14:00 and Cedric the Entertainer follows Mrs Bush. 04/30/05 c-span, created by cable, provided as a public service

Ramos v. Chertoff

NOTICE OF CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT CHICAGO – Today, the Department of Homeland Security announced that a settlement has been reached in the case Ramos v. Chertoff (02 C 8266, Northern District, Illinois). This lawsuit involved individuals who filed applications for adjustment of status under Section 245(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act between January 29, 1997, and April 30, 2001, with the Chicago Office of the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). Individuals who filed their applications during this period of time, which were processed and denied because their applications were either premature, or defective because an approvable visa petition had not been filed for them, may be eligible for a credit for their filing fees and other relief under the settlement announced today.

Individuals who filed 245(i) applications between January 29, 1997, and April 30, 2001, who believe they might be eligible for relief, should contact class representatives at (312) 660-1898.

THIS IS NOT AN ANMESTY. This settlement creates no new rights or means for obtaining residency status in the United States.

The Court has preliminarily approved the settlement in this case and has scheduled a hearing on the fairness of this settlement for June 10, 2005, at 10:00 a.m. Class members who object to any of the terms of the settlement must file their written objections with the Office of the Clerk, United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Everett McKinley Dirksen Building, 219 South Dearborn Street, 20th Floor, Chicago, Illinois, 60604, by May 27, 2005. Class members may hire their own attorney to represent them or contact the class representatives at (312) 660-1898. Class counsel advises that immigration authorities should not be directly contacted at this time.

SOURCE: USCIS.gov Press Release April 29, 2005 Press Office U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Indian Health Service (IHS), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

INDIAN HEALTH SERVICE SHARES ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORD SYSTEM WITH NASA

Health Information Technology Transfer Between Federal Agencies Exemplifies President’s Goal for Increased Coordination

Washington, D.C. - The Indian Health Service (IHS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has signed a memorandum of understanding to share the Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS), a suite of applications which includes an electronic health record (EHR), with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). This transfer of technology will be specifically used in NASA’s Office of the Chief Health and Medical Officer (OCHMO). The memorandum of understanding was signed April 21, 2005. Over two years ago, NASA’s OCHMO
began a process of identifying a health management system for the Agency’s complex array of occupations. Numerous health management systems in public and private sectors were extensively reviewed. Based upon functionality, applicability, and cost, the IHS system best met NASA’s needs.

“We are pleased to be of assistance to NASA in the development of a product that combines the spirit of creativity and innovation of both agencies, for their use in improving the health services and health outcomes for their employees” said W. Craig Vanderwagen, M.D., Assistant Surgeon General and Acting Chief Medical Officer for the Indian Health Service.

The Indian Health Service is a pioneer in the use of computer technology to capture clinical and public health data. The primary clinical component of RPMS, Patient Care Component (PCC), was launched in 1984 in collaboration with the Veterans Administration’s VistA program. The IHS RPMS is an integrated solution for the management of clinical and administrative information in healthcare facilities of various sizes and orientations. In a 2004 program performance review by OMB, the
RPMS received top ratings.

“NASA plans to develop state of the art approaches to recording and assessing occupational health issues with this record system, and Indian health will benefit since we do not have such a tool in our existing system. NASA’s commitment to seeing the application of a tool that can and will improve patient safety and quality of care is another critical part of the partnership formalized in the signing of this document,” says Dr. Vanderwagen.

As part of the President’s initiative to coordinate health information technology across the federal government via the appointment of David J. Brailer, M.D., PhD, National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, IHS is providing NASA with the RPMS applications suite as a Federal open-source application. NASA sought out IHS’ RPMS for its integrated suite of software applications with data capture and retrieval capabilities for patient and population-level clinical and administrative data.

“NASA’s decision to institute an EHR was driven by its desire for a fuller understanding of the health status of their workforce and as part of an agency-wide initiative aimed at standardizing health care delivery and improving the care of all of its employees. We are pleased that NASA’s contributions of an occupational health module will provide a more flexible, usable system that will benefit other federal agencies,” says Richard S. Williams, M.D., FACS, NASA’s Chief Health and Medical Officer.

“The agreement between IHS and NASA is an example of the type of collaborative relationships that are being forged to leverage and share health information technology across the federal enterprise,”says David J. Brailer, M.D., PhD. "This is a prime example of how the government can share technology across agencies and departments in an effort to unify architectures and benefit from other successful implementation models."

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) was instrumental in identifying the IHS product for NASA. AHRQ plays a critical role in advancing the use of health IT, especially for tracking health outcomes and advancing quality of care.

"To realize the benefits of health IT as quickly as possible, we need to use our resources effectively and strategically. AHRQ was gratified to be able to help bring about this agreement between agencies," says AHRQ Director Carolyn M. Clancy.

SOURCE: Indian Health Service NOTICE TO EDITORS: For additional information on this subject, please contact the IHS Public Affairs Staff at 301-443-3593. Additional information about the IHS is available on the IHS website ihs.gov and info.ihs.gov

Indian Health Service Press Release IHS-10-2005 April 26, 2005 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: (301) 443-3593, FAX (301) 443-0507

Yes, it is an exoplanet 2M1207 system

Yes, it is the image of an exoplanet

Astronomers confirm the first image of a planetAn international team of astronomers reports today confirmation of the discovery of a giant planet, approximately five times the mass of Jupiter, that is gravitationally bound to a young brown dwarf. This puts an end to a year long discussion on the nature of this object, which started with the detection of a red object close to the brown dwarf.

In February and March of this year, the astronomers took new images of the young brown dwarf and its giant planet companion with the state-of-the-art NACO instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope in northern Chile. The planet is near the southern constellation of Hydra and approximately 200 light years from Earth.

"Our new images show convincingly that this really is a planet, the first planet that has ever been imaged outside of our solar system," tells Gael Chauvin, astronomer at ESO and leader of the team of astronomers who conducted the study.

"The two objects - the giant planet and the young brown dwarf - are moving together; we have observed them for a year, and the new images essentially confirm our 2004 finding," says Benjamin Zuckerman, UCLA professor of physics and astronomy, member of NASA's Astrobiology Institute, and a member of the team. "I'm more than 99 percent confident." The separation between the planet and the brown dwarf is 55 times the separation of the Earth and Sun.

Anne-Marie Lagrange, another member of the team from the Grenoble Observatory in France, looks towards the future: "Our discovery represents a first step towards one of the most important goals of modern astrophysics: to characterize the physical structure and chemical composition of giant and, eventually, terrestrial-like planets."

Last September, the same team of astronomers reported a faint reddish speck of light in the close vicinity of a young brown dwarf (see ESO PR 23/04). The feeble object, now called 2M1207b, is more than 100 times fainter than the brown dwarf, 2M1207A. The spectrum of 2M1207b presents a strong signature of water molecules, thereby confirming that it must be cold. Based on the infrared colours and the spectral data, evolutionary model calculations led to the conclusion that 2M1207b is a 5 Jupiter-mass planet. Its mass can be estimated also by use of a different method of analysis, which focuses on the strength of its gravitational field; this technique suggests that the mass might be even less than 5 Jupiters.

At the time of its discovery in April 2004, it was impossible to prove that the faint source is not a background object (such as an unusual galaxy or a peculiar cool star with abnormal infrared colours), even though this appeared very unlikely. Observations with the Hubble Space Telescope, obtained in August 2004, corroborated the VLT/NACO observations, but were taken too soon after the NACO ones to conclusively demonstrate that the faint source is a planet.
The new observations show with high confidence that the two objects are moving together and hence are gravitationally bound.

"Given the rather unusual properties of the 2M1207 system, the giant planet most probably did not form like the planets in our solar system," says Gael Chauvin. "Instead it must have formed the same way our Sun formed, by a one-step gravitational collapse of a cloud of gas and dust."
The paper describing this research has been accepted for publication in Astronomy and Astrophysics.

The same European/American team has had another paper just accepted for publication in Astronomy & Astrophysics; this paper reports the imaging discovery with the same VLT/NACO instrumentation of a lightweight companion to AB Pictoris, a young star located about 150 light years from Earth. The estimated mass of the companion is between 13 and 14 times the mass of Jupiter, which places the companion right on the border line between massive planets and the lowest mass brown dwarfs.
###

SOURCE: DOE Public release date: 30-Apr-2005 Contact: Henri Boffin hboffin@eso.org +49-89-3200-6222 European Southern Observatory (ESO)

Spellings Extols Excellence In Student Achievement

Spellings Extols Excellence In Student Achievement, Georgia Schools Honored for Dramatic Gains, High Performance, Secretary's Remarks.

ATLANTA -- U.S. Education Secretary Margaret Spellings tonight honored 83 Georgia schools for excellence in academic performance, saying they "put student achievement first." Spellings attended the Georgia Schools of Excellence in Student Achievement Banquet in Atlanta to recognize the 20 Georgia public and public charter schools chosen for that distinction this year. Ten are in the state's top 10 percent as measured by student achievement in reading/language arts and math. Ten others have demonstrated the greatest gains in those subjects over the past three years.

"You have not forgotten what makes a school truly excellent," Spellings said. "It's not how many seats it fills or hours it stays open, but how well its children learn, period. The people in this room tonight have shown us all what is possible when we see our children's potential and push them to reach it."

"Some schools have overcome great challenges and made great strides forward," Spellings said. "Others have achieved great academic heights. But all share one great philosophy: that student achievement comes first."

Sixty-three other schools were honored as Title I Distinguished Schools, Title I public and public charter schools that have met or exceeded Georgia's adequate yearly progress goals for three or more years running, or that have made the greatest gains in closing their achievement gaps.

"Day in and day out, these schools carry out the president's mission to teach every child and leave no child behind," Spellings said.

Spellings noted the elements that educators say have contributed to this performance, including dedicated teachers and support staff, involved parents and a focus on accountability under the No Child Left Behind Act.

One educator, Principal Sheila Brock of Downtown Elementary Magnet School, a Title I Distinguished School, called No Child Left Behind "the single most unifying factor in my 26-plus years of education," according to Spellings. Because of it, Brock said, test results "are now being used to draw a road map to future success."

"The No Child Left Behind Act has indeed changed the education landscape in this country," Spellings added. "It has taught us all a new equation: high standards plus accountability plus resources equal results. While a few try to undermine the law in the courts and elsewhere, every one of you in this room has chosen to make it work."

Spellings also praised Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue and State Schools Superintendent Kathy Cox for the state's success under the law. President Bush has recognized Georgia for its progress in raising student achievement and narrowing the achievement gap.

In addition, more than 94 percent of Georgia's teachers have achieved "highly qualified" status.

"You've given us reason not just to be proud, but also optimistic about the future of education in America," said Spellings. "And you're getting it done by following the 'bright line' goals of No Child Left Behind."

Under the law, all teachers of core academic subjects must be highly qualified in their subject by the end of the 2005-06 school year. In her remarks, Spellings noted that the president has proposed the Teacher Incentive Fund to attract the best educators to serve in the most challenging schools. And the U.S. Department of Education has more than tripled loan forgiveness rates for special education, math and science teachers who choose to work at high-need schools.

"Schools that could benefit the most from good teachers often have the most difficult time attracting them," Spellings said. "We are working to change that."

SOURCE: U.S. Department of Education ### FOR RELEASE: April 29, 2005 Contact: (202) 401-1576

Secretary of Defense 2004 Environmental Award Winners

Secretary of Defense 2004 Environmental Award Winners Named

Ten military installations and individuals have been identifed to receive the 2004 Secretary of Defense Annual Environmental Awards in an awards ceremony planned for May 4, 2005, in the Pentagon. A panel of expert judges from the government, non-profit and private sectors recognized the winners for excellence in five categories: cultural resources management, environmental quality, environmental restoration, natural resources conservation, and pollution prevention.

The award winners by category are:

Lt. Colonel Michael Tarpley - Camp Beauregard, La. Individual - Cultural Resources Management

Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Installation - Cultural Resources Management (tie)

15th Airlift Wing, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, Installation - Cultural Resources Management (tie)

Naval Air Depot Cherry Point, N.C. Industrial Installation - Environmental Quality

Misawa Air Base, Japan, Overseas Installation - Environmental Quality

Naval Facilities Engineering Command Pacific, Hawaii, Installation - Environmental Restoration (tie)

Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. Installation - Environmental Restoration (tie)

Fort Drum, N.Y. Large Installation - Natural Resources Conservation

Tinker Air Force Base Pollution Prevention Team, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla. Individual/Team - Pollution Prevention

Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, Va. Installation - Pollution Prevention

Recognizing excellence in environmental management is a crucial element in Department of Defense efforts to support the twin imperatives of producing the best-trained military force in the world while providing the best environmental stewardship possible. Each year, the secretary of defense honors installations, teams and individuals for outstanding environmental management by military and civilian personnel, at both domestic and overseas bases, to sustain military readiness, and training and operational capabilities.

This year’s Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, May 4, at 3 p.m. EDT in the Pentagon Auditorium and will be open for media coverage. The ceremony is also scheduled to be broadcast live on the Pentagon Channel at pentagonchannel.com/, or check local television listings for specific channel information.

Detailed information on the secretary’s Environmental Awards can be found at denix.osd.mil/Public/Library/Awards/ .

No. 418-05 IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 29, 2005

U.S. Department of DefenseOffice of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)News Release On the Web: defenselink.mil/releases/2005/ Media contact: +1 (703) 697-5131
Public contact: dod.mil/faq/comment or +1 (703) 428-0711

Carlos M. Gutierrez 1st Quarter GDP

SECRETARY CARLOS M. GUTIERREZ STATEMENT ON 1st QUARTER GDP

Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today released the following statement on First Quarter GDP:

"America's economy continues on a steady and sustainable path of expansion. Businesses continue to spend and invest and more Americans are working today than ever before. Our economy has kept a solid pace of growth for the past two years. Our growth for this quarter of 3.1 percent comes on top of last year’s strong 4.4 percent growth. But there is still more work to do. The President’s pro-growth economic policies include moving America toward greater energy independence and eliminating barriers to trade so that businesses have the best conditions to hire more workers and succeed."

SOURCE: Department of Commerce FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday, April 28, 2005

International Food Aid Conference VII

JOHANNS TO ADDRESS INTERNATIONAL FOOD AID CONFERENCE

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2005 - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns will be the keynote speaker at the International Food Aid Conference VII, "Strengthening the Food Aid Chain," to be held May 3-5, 2005, at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown in Kansas City, Missouri. The conference provides the food aid community with an opportunity to gain perspectives on current challenges, practices and programs related to food aid. The event is hosted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

"Our efforts to strengthen the food aid chain focus on working with our partner agencies and organizations to improve coordination, cooperation and communication," said Johanns. "This conference provides an opportunity to enhance these relationships and meet the challenge of reducing hunger worldwide."

Other conference speakers include U.S. Senator Pat Roberts from Kansas; Andrew Natsios, USAID administrator; Ambassador Randall L. Tobias, U.S. Global AIDS coordinator; Dr. J.B. Penn, USDA under secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services; John Powell, deputy executive director for Fundraising and Communications, United Nations (U.N.) World Food Program (WFP); James Little, USDA Farm Service Agency administrator; and Lauren Bush, honorary spokesperson for the U.N. WFP.

During the conference, government agencies, as well as the U.N. WFP, private voluntary organizations, non-government organizations and agricultural industry representatives will discuss food aid in the post 9/11 environment, the changing landscape of world trade negotiations, the role of food aid in national security and strengthening the food aid chain through partnerships. This year's conference, the seventh, is expected to attract nearly 800 participants from all segments of the food aid community, both domestic and international.

Persons with disabilities, who require accommodations to attend or participate in this conference, please contact Debbie Crow at (816) 926-6301, or at Deborah.Crow@kcc.usda.gov. For more information about the conference, visit http://www.fsa.usda.gov/daco/default.htm.

SOURCE: United States Department of Agriculture Last Modified: 04/29/2005 Release No. 0141.05 Contact: Ed Loyd (202) 720-4623 Stevin Westcott (202) 720-4178

NOAA HURRICANE CAMPAIGN GOES AIRBORNE FOR EAST COAST

NOAA HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS CAMPAIGN GOES AIRBORNE FOR EAST COAST RESIDENTS

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April 29, 2005 — With the start of the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season just a few weeks away, forecasters from the NOAA National Hurricane Center will join the aircrew from the NOAA Aircraft Operations Center on a "hurricane hunter" aircraft May 2-6 for a five-city, five-day mission to increase hurricane awareness and encourage preparedness in vulnerable coastal and inland communities of the East Coast.

The team of hurricane experts, aided by local NOAA National Weather Service officials, will ride a WP-3 Orion four-engine turboprop, nicknamed "Miss Piggy," to meet emergency managers, media and the public. Cities on the route: Bangor, Maine; Baltimore, Md.; Richmond, Va.; Charleston, S.C.; and Jacksonville, Fla.

"Every hurricane season, brave men and women board 'hurricane hunter' aircraft from NOAA and the Air Force Reserve to fly into storms and gather data that is critical to producing accurate track and intensity forecasts of the storm," said retired Air Force Brig. Gen. David L. Johnson, director of the NOAA National Weather Service. "I invite the public to meet and greet the best of the best and take to heart their important safety messages."

With this tour, Max Mayfield, director of the NOAA National Hurricane Center says, "Our objective is straightforward: increase awareness of the hurricane threat for a population relatively inexperienced with hurricanes. Most importantly, we want to share lessons learned last year when four hurricanes affected Florida."

"The 2004 Atlantic hurricane season was among the most devastating on record," adds Mayfield. "More than 3,100 lives were lost in Haiti, the second largest Atlantic toll in three decades. In the United States, 60 direct deaths were associated with tropical storms and hurricanes."

At least 92 indirect fatalities occurred last year in Florida alone. Factors leading to such deaths included carbon monoxide poisoning from inadequate ventilation for generators, fires from improper use of candles and traffic accidents due to toppled street lights and stop signs.

"One lesson that bears emphasizing is that loss of life both during and after the hurricane can be prevented with education and a little common sense," Mayfield said.

Dean P. Gulezian, director of the NOAA National Weather Service Eastern Region adds, "Inland flooding and poor human judgment continues to be a lethal combination." Last year, the remnants of the small hurricane, Gaston, dropped more than 12 inches of rain in the Richmond, Va., area causing eight deaths. Five of these were motorists that attempted to drive through flooded roadways.

The NOAA National Hurricane Center will continue its hurricane hazard education campaign during national Hurricane Preparedness Week from May 15-21. Information is now available online.

NOAA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce, 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.

Media Contact:Frank Lepore, NOAA National Hurricane Center, (305) 229-4404, Pager, (800) 759-8888, #1579600; or Marcie Katcher, NOAA National Weather Service Eastern Region, (631) 244-0149

African Union To Expand Peacekeeping Mission in Sudan

African Union To Expand Peacekeeping Mission in Sudan

The United States welcomes the African Union’s April 28 decision to increase the size of its Darfur peacekeeping force. The current 3,320 African Union troops will expand to more than 7,700. The United States supports the African Union’s consultations with NATO on potential logistical assistance, and calls on all African Union member states to provide additional forces to Darfur quickly.

We view the African Union as playing a central role in resolving the crisis in Darfur and applaud its commitment to the security and humanitarian needs of the people of this region. The United States has already contributed more that $95 million to support the African Union mission so far, and looks forward to supporting the expanded mission. The United States will continue to work with the African Union and the rest of the international community to support efforts to resolve the crisis in Darfur.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/455 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC April 29, 2005

International Criminal Tribunal Rwanda, Mikaeli Muhimana

International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda Conviction

The International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda sentenced Mikaeli Muhimana on April 28 to life imprisonment, the maximum punishment permissible. He was found guilty of genocide and crimes against humanity, including murder and rape. This trial was completed in 34 trial days. The United States commends the Tribunal on its work, particularly its increased pace and volume of adjudications.

As the Tribunal implements its completion strategy, the United States continues to support its work and urges all governments in the region to fulfill their international obligations. Regional governments are specifically obligated through United Nations Security Council Resolutions to vigorously pursue the apprehension of Felicien Kabuga and all other persons indicted by the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda for genocide and other serious violations of international humanitarian law.

SOURCE: state.gov 2004/454 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC April 29, 2005

UN Special Envoy Terje Roed-Larsen

U.S. Meetings With UN Special Envoy Terje Roed-Larsen (Taken Question)

Question: Was UN Special Representative Terje Roed-Larsen at the Department of State yesterday and with whom did he meet?

Answer: UN Special Envoy Terje Roed-Larsen visited Washington yesterday for meetings with President Bush, and here at the Department with Under Secretary of State Nicholas Burns and officials of the Bureau for Near Eastern Affairs.

We expressed our deep appreciation and full support for his mission as Special Envoy. We agreed on the need for full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1559, to include the conduct of free and fair elections according to the current timetable. These discussions are part of our regular and ongoing dialogue with the United Nations and other international leaders aimed at the achievement of a free, sovereign, and prosperous Lebanon. 2005/453

Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 29, 2005 Question Taken at Daily Briefing of April 29, 2005