Author: Serkadis

  • 2010 New York: 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon completes CTS-V lineup

    • Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG wagon, Audi RS6 Estate, BMW M5 Touring.
    • Power: Supercharged 6.2L V8 – 556-hp / 551 lb-ft.
    • Transmission: 6-speed manual dual-disc clutch, 6-speed automatic (with paddle shifters).
    • Performance: 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds.
    • Availability: Late 2010.
    • Pricing: TBA.

    On the eve of the 2010 New York Auto Show, General Motors invited a select group of press to hang out with Bob Lutz and the Cadillac CTS-V lineup including the CTS-V Sedan, Coupe and Sport Wagon.

    Click here to get prices on the 2010 Cadillac CTS-V Sedan.

    The 2010 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon will hit markets later this year and if it makes it to Europe, it will give the Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG wagon, BMW M5 Touring and the Audi RS6 Estate a run for their money.

    While under the hood CTS-V Sport Wagon shares its supercharged 6.2L V8 with its sedan and coupe siblings, it receives some minor interior upgrades including a new steering and more comfortable seats.

    Check out the live high-res image gallery after the jump.

    2010 New York: 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon:

    All Photos Copyright © 2010 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

    2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon:

    – By: Omar Rana


  • 2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport shows up looking sharp in NYC

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    2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport – Click above for high-res image gallery

    Suzuki decided that tomorrow wasn’t soon enough to take the wraps off its new 2011 Kizashi Sport, so they invited us media types to SoHo tonight for a sneak peek before the official unveiling at the 2010 New York Auto Show. What we saw when we arrived was a very sharp looking Kizashi done up in fiery red with new 18-inch alloy wheels, a deeper front chin spoiler, a trunklid spoiler and extended side sills with a dash of chrome here and there. While we had hoped to see a “V6” badge somewhere on it, we were sadly left wanting.

    In fact, the 2011 Sport doesn’t have any performance tweaks in the engine bay, just the exterior changes and a firmed up suspension. There’s also a new sport steering wheel inside as well as contrasting stitching throughout. The Sport package will be available on Kizashi GTS and SLS trim levels and ia scheduled to go on sale in the States this August. We have a sneaking suspicion that this is the same Kizashi concept we saw several months ago out at Cars & Coffee, not that there’s anything wrong with that. There’s a gallery of live pics below along with the freshly released media pics, and the full press release can be after the jump.

    [Source: American Suzuki Motor Corp.]

    Continue reading 2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport shows up looking sharp in NYC

    2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport shows up looking sharp in NYC originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 23:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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  • The Straw Man March – The Left’s Obsession With Victimhood.

    03.30.10 09:37 AM posted by Skip MacLure

    It’s a cameo of the Clinton administration right down to the ever charming Janet Napolitano waging warfare on ‘armed Christian militia groups’. Democrats all over the country are suddenly ‘in fear for the lives of themselves and their families’. What crap! Every time anyone, anytime calls them on their stuff they fall back on racism, or fear of the supposed militant right in this country. Then with the connivance of the statist, left wing lap dog press they attempt to link the entire patriot movement to every fancied incident they can create.


    Janet Napolitano

    If that Christian Militia in Michigan was indeed plotting some insane campaign of terror against local police departments as part of a campaign against the government, then they were as stupid as they were inept. No patriot or group of patriots is actively plotting against the US Government, and most particularly if they were, they sure as hell wouldn’t start with the local police or Sheriff’s deputies.

    There are parts of this story that just aren’t meeting the smell test… like so much of what the left does, they aren’t very good story tellers. They are too accustomed to their lies being given a gold plated pass by their goofball base and the statist press which has been carrying their water for so long. read more »

    http://www.conservativeoutpost.com/s…ion_victimhood

  • HR 4933 and Global Healthcare

    03.30.10 01:37 PM posted by Veronica Estrada

    These progressives are relentless.

    Looks like the dems have submitted legislation to address Global Healthcare and health worker shortages via HR 4933 submitted 6 days ago on March 24, 2010.

    To establish a strategy to coordinate all health-related United States foreign assistance, to assist developing countries in improving delivery of health services, and to establish an initiative to assist developing countries in strengthening their indigenous health workforces, and for other purposes.

    </p>

    This legislation is supported/advocated/by the American Medical Student Association which puts out their own 2009-2010 Legislative Agenda:

    The following legislative agenda outlines the legislative and policy goals of the American Medical Student Association (AMSA), which pertain to the following legislative priorities:

    • Quality, Affordable Health Care for All
    • Primary Care Workforce Expansion
    • Student Debt Reduction
    • Racial and Ethnic Health Care Disparities
    • Provider and pharmaceutical industry conflicts of interest
    • Reproductive Health (Abortion)
    • Global Health Program Funding, Drug Availability, and Health Care Workforce Building

    </p>

    Read the rest of their overview here. read more &raquo;

    http://www.conservativeoutpost.com/h…bal_healthcare

  • 2010 New York Preview: 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid could be the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan

    At the 2010 New York Auto Show tomorrow, Lincoln will debut the new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid sedan, expected to be the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in the United States.

    “Today’s luxury customers do not want to make sacrifices. Lincoln has found a way to deliver a luxury sedan with the comforts they expect, the technology they want and the environmental responsibility society demands,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president, Global Product Development.

    Based on the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Mercury Milan Hybrid, the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is powered by the same 2.5L Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine. Working together, the gasoline engine and the electric-motor both put out a net 191-hp. The Lincoln MKZ is also capable of cruising on pure electric mode at speeds of up to 47 mph, compared with its “closest competitor”, the Lexus HS 250h which can hit just 25 mph on pure battery power.

    Ford also pointed out that the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid comes with features and technologies that are either not offered on the Lexus HS 250h including SmartGauge with EcoGuide, Sync and MyKey.

    Sales will begin later this year.

    Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

    2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid:

    Press Release:

    LINCOLN INTRODUCES FIRST HYBRID; NEW MKZ HYBRID TO BE MOST FUEL-EFFICIENT LUXURY SEDAN IN AMERICA

    – New 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid expected to be most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America
    – Lincoln MKZ Hybrid takes SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide to next level, offering drivers enhanced positive feedback on long-term fuel efficiency and driving performance
    – More standard luxury, technologies and segment-exclusive safety features in the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid help it top its nearest competitor, the 2010 Lexus HS 250h

    NEW YORK, March 31, 2010 – Lincoln today introduces its first hybrid – the new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid – a premium midsize car poised to be the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America.

    Ford Motor Company – America’s largest domestic hybrid seller – is further broadening its aggressive electrification plan and second generation of hybrid technology with the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. The vehicle is revealed today at the New York International Auto Show.

    “Lincoln’s hallmarks are design, technology and comfort. Now, Lincoln also delivers the best fuel efficiency of any luxury sedan in America,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas.

    Lincoln’s first-ever hybrid is expected to deliver at least 41 miles per gallon in the city when it goes on sale this fall.

    The new premium midsize sedan hybrid joins Ford Motor Company’s growing lineup of hybrids, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid – 2010 North American Car of the Year and America’s most fuel-efficient sedan – plus the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Milan and Mariner Hybrids.

    Introduction of the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid also complements Ford’s aggressive global electrification plan. Ford is introducing five new electrified vehicles by 2013. They include the Transit Connect Electric in late 2010, the Focus Electric in 2011, a next-generation hybrid electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in 2012, followed by another next-generation hybrid electric vehicle in 2013.

    The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid’s projected fuel economy tops its nearest competitor – the 2010 Lexus HS 250h – by 6 mpg. It also trumps the Lexus with room for one more passenger and more standard luxury and segment-exclusive safety features.

    The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid uses Ford’s second-generation hybrid technology – the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine, named one of Ward’s 2010 “10 Best Engines.”

    The system combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver optimal performance and fuel economy.

    Industry-leading fuel economy comes without sacrificing power. The combined gasoline engine and electric motor provide 191 net horsepower. Plus, the pure electric mode on the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid extends to 47 mph – compared with the Lexus HS 250h battery-only mode, which reaches just 25 mph.

    More standard luxury
    The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid comes standard with features and technologies that are either not offered on the Lexus HS 250h or are available only at an extra cost. They include:

    * SmartGauge with EcoGuide – Ford’s highly successful interactive technology provides real-time information to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency, and coaches drivers on how to optimize hybrid performance. Lincoln takes SmartGauge to the next level of engagement by giving drivers enhanced positive feedback on long-term fuel efficiency and driving performance through the “growth” of virtual small flowers on the system’s right-most screen. Lincoln’s white flowers, inspired by apple blossoms, remain permanently unless long-term fuel economy is reset.

    * Lincoln SYNC® – The Lincoln-exclusive voice-activated communications and entertainment system provides an omnipresent link to contacts and information. In addition to Bluetooth® phone, audible text and MP3 player capabilities, Lincoln customers also can access Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist™.

    * 10-Way Power Passenger Seat – This seat is designed to accommodate a diverse group of passengers. Memory functions enable passengers to fine-tune and recall their positions.

    * Power Driver Memory Seat Settings – The driver seat memory feature helps ensure personal seating preferences anytime, with the touch of a button.

    * Heated and Cooled Front Seats – This uniquely engineered system delivers exceptional heating and cooling comfort.

    * Genuine Wood Trim – In addition to their exquisite appearance, the Swirl Walnut and Olive Ash wood trims offered in the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid are eco-friendly as well. The veneers come from well-managed forests, as defined by strict environmental, social and economic standards, and from other rigorously controlled sources.

    * Reverse Sensing System – This system senses what drivers might not see behind them and relays an audible alert if objects are near, which increases in frequency the closer a driver gets.

    * Keyless Entry Keypad – This Lincoln-exclusive feature provides secure entry at a driver’s fingertips. A personal combination holds a memory for driver preferences. So if an owner is out for a run and doesn’t want to take the keys along, the vehicle can be opened with the touch of a few buttons.

    * Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel-Filler – This Lincoln-exclusive feature uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap. That means no more fumbling to remove and tighten the cap and less fuel odor on a driver’s hands at the pump.

    * Personal Safety System™ – A Lincoln-exclusive suite of seven protection technologies works together as a system to help protect vehicle occupants. The system includes dual-stage front air bags and an occupant classification system to sense whether the passenger seat is occupied. It tailors – or suppresses – air bag deployment to help provide an appropriate level of protection. It also features the Ford Belt-Minder® system to remind front-seat occupants to buckle up.

    * MyKey™ – This Lincoln-exclusive feature allows parents to program a key to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency. It also encourages seat belt usage, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph.

    * Integrated Spotter Mirrors – The traditional side-view mirrors are designed with a secondary convex spotter mirror in the top outer corner, which provides a view of the driver’s blind spot. When traffic enters the driver’s blind spot on either side of the vehicle, it is visible in the secondary convex mirror, alerting the driver of obstacles.

    * Acoustic Laminated Windshield – This windshield features a layer of sound-absorbent vinyl sandwiched between two sheets of glass, which enhances interior quietness.

    The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid also includes standard Bridge of Weir leather seats. The world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through. The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a soft hand, and Bridge of Weir uses a chromium-free tanning process, which makes it easier to recycle.

    – By: Omar Rana


  • Microsoft Sued Over Buy From FM Zune Feature, Despite It Functioning Differently Than The Patent

    Technically, we’re told, patents only are supposed to apply to specific inventions, and not general ideas. It doesn’t always work that way in practice, of course. AdamR points us to a lawsuit filed by some guy against Microsoft, claiming patent infringement in Zune’s “Buy from FM” feature that lets you buy a song that you hear over FM radio. The guy is claiming willful infringement and demanding treble damages, because he apparently wrote Microsoft a letter back in 2006. Of course, there appears to be a pretty big problem with the claim, in that the patents in question (6,463,469 and 6,473,792) appear to describe a process of unlocking music already found on a local harddrive — which is not how the Zune’s feature works.

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  • Global Market For Biofuels To Reach US$ 61.5 Billion By 2015

    biofuels(AZoCleanTech.com, March 29, 2010) According to a new report released by Report Buyer, by the year 2015, the biofuel market across the world will reach US$ 61.5 billion. The report, Biofuels – A Global Market Overview, projects that the market for biofuels will grow 12.9% CAGR from 2006 to 2015.  The demand for biofuels has grown significantly in the European Union and the United States. The European Union is planning to step up its annual biofuel production to approximately 10% of its liquid fuels by the year 2020.  A challenging target has set by the United States to manufacture approximately 8 billion gallons per annum by 2012 and reach 40 billion gallons by the year 2022.  Click here to read more…

  • Stimulus Snags: Recovery Board Trims List Of Problem Names

    MistakeBy Louise Radnofsky

    (Wall Street Journal, March 29, 2010) Ouch. A month after the economic recovery board posted a list of “two-timer losers” – those who received stimulus money but didn’t report how they were spending it – the stimulus police said that 79 of the 389 names on the list had filed their forms and shouldn’t have been named and shamed.  The board says it got the names from the federal agencies responsible for administering stimulus money, and that senior officials and those agencies had certified the list as accurate.  Earl Devaney, the chairman of the board, released a statement apologizing for the error. “This mistake should not have occurred and I regret that it did,” he said. The board has posted a corrected list.  Click here to read more…

  • Safer Nuclear Reactors With Self-Healing Nanocrystalline Materials

    medicine(ScienceDaily, March 26, 2010) — Self-repairing materials within nuclear reactors may one day become a reality as a result of research by Los Alamos National Laboratory scientists.  In a paper appearing March 26 in the journal Science, Los Alamos researchers report a surprising mechanism that allows nanocrystalline materials to heal themselves after suffering radiation-induced damage. Nanocrystalline materials are those created from nanosized particles, in this case copper particles. A single nanosized particle — called a grain — is the size of a virus or even smaller. Nanocrystalline materials consist of a mixture of grains and the interface between those grains, called grain boundaries.  Click here to read more…

  • Air Force Solicitations – March 2010

    air-forceAF ISR Industry Education Day – Air Force Material Command (AFMC) will be hosting the first annual Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (AF ISR) Industry Education Day on Tuesday, 4 May 2010. The event will be a classified, secret level forum held at the Advanced Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC) auditorium, 2685 Hibiscus Way, Beavercreek, OH 45431.  The intended audience for the event is primarily defense contractors and academia.  The purpose of this Industry Education Day is to introduce the AF ISR Flight Plan and its associated capabilities based assessment (CBA) activities to industry and academia. The AF ISR Flight Plan is a long-term, integrated plan designed to develop cross-domain ISR capabilities to actualize the AF Global Integrated ISR Service Core Function (SCF) and the Battlespace Awareness Joint Capabilities Area. Registration Deadline: April 20, 2010.  For registration information, please visit the ATIC website: http://www.atichcd.org.

    Posted Date: March 29, 2010

    Solicitation Number: AFMC001_A2Z

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    RIAC Training in Virginia Beach, VA – Accelerated Reliability Testing, Software Reliability and Integrity, Reliability 101, and a Systems approach to Reliability in design are four separate three-day short courses that the Reliability Information Analysis Center (RIAC) will be presenting at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Virginia Beach, VA and are open to anyone in the technical community.  The “Accelerated  Reliability Testing” and “Software Reliability and Integrity” training courses will be presented June 8 – 10, 2010 while the “Reliability 101″ and “A Systems Approach to Reliability in Design” will be presented June 15 -17, 2010.    Each course stresses proven approaches and techniques for the designer, analyst and manager through numerous real world examples addressing both commercial and DoD applications.  For additional information, please visit our website at http://theRIAC.org or call the Reliability Information Analysis Center at (877) 363-7422 or (315) 351-4200.

    Posted Date: March 25, 2010

    Solicitation Number: RIAC-TR060810

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    Small Business Forum for SMC Industry Days – The 2010 SMC Industry Days Conference has added a small business forum. The session will discuss SMC small business policy issues and opportunities in military space programs. The session will include a Q&A period. The conference will take place at the Long Beach Marriott from April 6-8, 2010. The small business forum will be on April 8, 2010. This annual event educates industry and government personnel on current and upcoming programs at SMC. This year’s theme is “Facing a New Space Reality for the Next Five to Fifteen Years…Cyber, Protection, Budgets, and Architectures.”  Conference details and registration information can be found at the website http://smcindustrydays.org/. Registration is currently open and will continue until April 2, 2010. Participation by small and small disadvantaged businesses is highly encouraged.

    Posted Date: March 22, 2010

    Solicitation Number: SMC_Industry_Days_SB_Forum_2010

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    Info Challenges 2010 Conference and Exposition – AFCEA , Erie Canal Chapter is sponsoring an Info Challenges 2010 Conference and Exposition with support from the Griffiss Institute and participation from Air Force Research Laboratory and the Information Institute. The conference will explore challenges and research opportunities in information systems and technology for Air Force and DOD applications. Each day has a plenary session that provides attendees the opportunity to hear several addresses by senior Air Force leaders and Air Force Research laboratory senior staff on future challenges and research opportunities in information technology. Afternoons, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in parallel technical sessions in mini-workshop format on hard problems in information technology.  Finally, an Exposition on Emerging Technologies in Information Science will be held in conjunction with the Griffiss Institute. Demonstrations and posters are invited on emerging technology and recent developments ready for tech transfer or transition. The third day will be held at the Griffiss Institute and will focus on Small Business Innovative Research.  The Conference is being held at the Mohawk Valley Community College in Utica, NY on Jun 8 and 9, 2010 and at the Griffiss Institute in Rome, NY on 10 June.  Registration for Info Challenges 2010 can be made on-line starting April 1, 2010 at http://www.afceaeriecanal.com .

    Posted Date: March 19, 2010

    Solicitation Number: Info_Challenges_2010_Conference_And_Exposition

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    CubeSat-Size Spacecraft RFI – Air Force Research Laboratory at Edwards AFB is interested in developing a propulsion module for precision maneuvering of very small spacecraft.  Spacecraft typified by the emerging “cubesat” standard may provide a new paradigm for responsive spacecraft.  Technologies of interest include both low and high thrust propulsion technologies.  The propulsion capabilities of the systems of interest will likely be used for both the generation of large orbital changes and small impulse bits.  Propulsion systems of most interest to the Air Force are those that retain maximum mission flexibility with the maximum impulse and capability of large-scale orbital maneuvers.  Respondents to this RFI are requested to provide whatever recommendations they may have for such a program.

    Posted Date: March 18, 2010

    Solicitation Number: RZSSRFI1002

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    Applied Research reGarding Operationally Novel And Unique Technologies (ARGONAUT) – The specific technical areas associated with this CALL include Topic Area 4 and Topic Area 5 of the Baseline BAA 09-RD-02.  The technical areas to be addressed in this call require advancing the state-of-the-art and scientific knowledge in directed energy (DE) and space superiority through research, development, modeling, simulation, analysis and technology demonstrations in the following technical areas: A) BAA 09-RD-02 Topic Area 4:  Modeling, Simulation & Analysis (MS&A) – Develop algorithms, interfaces, and computer codes as necessary to model the diverse needs of the AFRL Directed Energy Directorate.  MS&A interests include but are not limited to high fidelity physical phenomena, systems-level behavior, design and performance prediction of experiments, and mission and campaign analyses. Examples include predictive modeling, MUAs, and trade studies for the CHAMP Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD), the Electric Laser on a Large Aircraft (ELLA), and other programs; B) BAA 09-RD-02 Topic Area 5:  DE Technology Demonstrations – Provide concept development, analysis, testing, and execution related to laser and HPM weapons.  Contribute to advances in subsystem technologies such as beam control, prime power, thermal management, and fire control.  Research into these areas should address scalability to high average power, Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) variations, and the effects of these variations across the weapon platform.  Engineering development will be required for more realizable DE systems when integrated into an operational platform by reducing power lost to heat, beam distortion, size and weight, cost, and complexity.   Refine the CHAMP, ELLA, and new concept mission-level simulations to model laser weapon characteristics (fire control, vulnerability, and kill-chain implications).  Conduct mission-level analyses of proposed weapon systems to demonstrate military utility.  Determine Rules Of Engagement (ROEs), Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs), and Concept of Operations (CONOPs).  Total Funding: $3M.  Eligibility: All.  Proposal Due Date: April 15, 2010.

    Posted Date: March 16, 2010

    Funding Opportunity Number: BAA-09-RD-02

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    National Space Situational Awareness (SSA) Concept Call and Submission for Concepts – This Special Notice is made up of two sections: 1) General SSA Requirements and 2) Specific National SSA Architecture Gaps.  Section 1 is seeking both space-based and terrestrial-based concepts, to include materiel and non-materiel concepts that will enable and enhance the nation’s future SSA capabilities, feasible for the 2010 through 2030 timeframe, in the area of performance, reliability and affordability. Areas of interest include but are not limited to concepts that enhance the performance of the nation’s SSA capability or significantly reduce cost, schedule, or risk of existing DoD SSA capabilities (e.g. United States Strategic Command’s Space Surveillance Network (SSN), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) space debris cataloging capabilities, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) space environmental monitoring capabilities, Intelligence Community collection, processing, exploitation and production capabilities that support SSA).  Section 2 is seeking both space-based and terrestrial-based concepts, to include materiel and non-materiel concepts that would mitigate specific gaps in the National SSA Architecture.  Closing Date: June 3, 2010.

    Posted Date: March 16, 2010

    Solicitation Number: 10-24

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    Briefing for Industry 2010 – The Professional Aerospace Contractors Association (PACA) of New Mexico, with the co-sponsorship of Air Force Research Laboratory, will host the 24th Annual “Briefing for Industry” August 16-18, 2010 at the Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town in Albuquerque, New Mexico. During this comprehensive two-day event, the participating military and government agencies will describe their missions, share their program objectives and plans, and identify contracting opportunities to the audience of current and prospective contractors. Presentation topics will include: research and development; test and evaluation; technical and analytical support; operations and maintenance; systems procurement; and facilities construction.  The keynote luncheon speaker on August 17 is Zach Lemnios, Director of Defense Research and Engineering and considered by many to be the fourth person in command in the Pentagon. Gary Payton, Deputy Undersecretary of the Air Force for Space Programs, will deliver the luncheon keynote on August 18. A former NASA astronaut, Mr. Payton flew in the first Discovery Shuttle. You definitely do not want to miss their respective presentations.  Detailed event information and online registration are available on the “Briefing for Industry 2010” website at http://bfi.pacanm.org. BFI sponsorships opportunities are also available. Call 505-899-4028 for more information.

    Posted Date: March 15, 2010

    Solicitation Number: AFRL-RD-BFI-001

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    Integrated Motor Life Management, Data Acquisition, and Analysis System (IMLM DAAS) – The Air Force Research Laboratory, Propulsion Directorate at Edwards AFB, CA is soliciting technical, management and cost proposals on the that will fund the analysis, design, fabrication, and delivery of critical components necessary to develop an integrated system of data acquisition and analysis together with necessary sensors, models, and non-destructive inspection techniques to accurately predict the ability of a specific motor to perform its intended mission, as applied to a class of large solid rocket motors (SRM).  To achieve this objective, innovations are required to aide in the integration of high Technology Readiness Level (TRL) (4-9) sensors assessing the physical and chemical state of a SRM; determining the motor’s boundary conditions e.g. the internal and external motor environment including temperature, pressure, and relative humidity; detecting defects; and shock events. Data acquisition and analysis capabilities will also have to function with the asset from factory to launch environments without losing the desired monitoring capabilities.  The desired system application will focus on large-scale, monolithic or segmented SRM’s with relevance to strategic, space launch, and ballistic missile applications. The technology is anticipated to be readily transferred to smaller scale systems in tactical applications; however, the focus of this effort is on large-scale systems. It is expected that this project will encompass multiple awards, some of which may be to small businesses with specialized expertise; therefore, the Integrated Product Team (IPT) process, which involves participants from all contractors and led by the government, will be critical to the success of the development and integration of the system. To ensure the development of a single, operational prototype design, participants will be expected to disclose data and interface requirements while maintaining their proprietary interests.  Total Funding: $7.931M.  Eligibility: All (no foreign or foreign-owned firms).  This is a draft BAA therefore they are not excepting proposals and no due date has been established at this time.

    Posted Date: March 13, 2010

    Solicitation Number: BAA-10-01-PKTA

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    Integrated Motor Life Management, Data Acquisition, and Analysis System (IMLM DAAS) Industry Day – The Air Force Research Laboratory, Propulsion Directorate at Edwards AFB, CA is soliciting technical, management and cost proposals on the that will fund the analysis, design, fabrication, and delivery of critical components necessary to develop an integrated system of data acquisition and analysis together with necessary sensors, models, and non-destructive inspection techniques to accurately predict the ability of a specific motor to perform its intended mission, as applied to a class of large solid rocket motors (SRM).  There will be an Industry Day for this solicitation Friday, March 26, 2010.  The Industry Day will be held in Bldg 8351, Room 230 at the Air Force Research Laboratory in Edwards AFB, CA.  RSVP by COB Thursday, 18 Mar 2010 to Mr. Marc Venzon via e-mail ([email protected]).  In your RSVP, you must include an approved copy of your company’s Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement, DD Form 2345.  Otherwise, you will not be granted admission to the Industry Day.

    Posted Date: March 13, 2010

    Solicitation Number: BAA-10-01-PKTA

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    RFI: Advanced Mission Processor for Space (AMPS) – The Air Force Research Laboratory, Space Vehicles Directorate is issuing this RFI to solicit information on developing and demonstrating an AMPS.  AMPS is intended to significantly improve onboard data and signal processing for next-generation space systems. It is expected that the development will leverage commercial processing architectures / fabrics, intellectual property (IP), and/or integrated circuit (IC) fabrication processes.  The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has an on-going and historic interest in electronics subsystem technology maturation projects that are applicable to AMPS concepts. AFRL is considering a diversity of development and demonstration projects involving AMPS concepts, ranging from new technologies (e.g., three-dimensional circuitry, asynchronous/multi-value computation) and processes, to those involving the adaptation of contemporary components and architectures for effective use in the space environment. We are concerned with not just effective near-term approaches, but those that also extend to support a broad planning and development horizon (i.e., > 2030). To provide a framework for responses to this RFI and to encourage responses from component and subsystem technology suppliers as well as system integrators, eight key aspects of space computing have been identified: 1) Component architecture; 2) Core types, feature sets, and scalability/extensibility; 3) Embedded memory configuration and distribution; 4) Interconnect strategy within chip, between chips, and intra-system; 5) Software strategy; 6) Radiation hardness and reliability assurance approach and anticipated goals; 7) Business strategy; 8 ) Anticipated scope of space applications.  Submission Due Date: May 14, 2010.

    Posted Date: March 11, 2010

    Solicitation Number: RFI-AFRL030310RVSE

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    Global Assimilation of Ionospheric Measurements Model Integration – This is a follow-on Research and Development support effort to complete the development of the Space Weather Modeling System (SWMS) into compliance with the Earth System Modeling Framework.  The contractor will develop an ensemble forecast version of the Space Weather Modeling System (eSWMS) by coupling the Global Assimilation of Ionospheric Measurements (GAIM1) model, developed by Space Environment Corporation, Providence, UT with the Hakamada-Akasofu-Fry (HAFv2) Solar Wind Model, developed by Exploration Physics International, Huntsville, AL.  The ensemble forecast capability will produce a several-day forecast of the solar wind and iononsphere.  Submission Due Date: March 19, 2010.

    Posted Date: March 9, 2010

    Solicitation Number: FA4600-10-T-8604

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    Space Weather Modeling System – This is a follow-on research and development support effort to complete an Earth System Modeling Framework (ESMF)-compliant Space Weather Modeling System (SWMS).  The contractor will develop an ensemble forecast version of the Space Weather Modeling System (eSWMS), by coupling the Hakamada-Akasofu-Fry (HAFv2) Solar Wind Model, developed by Exploration Physics International, Huntsville, AL with the Global Assimilation of Ionospheric Measurements (GAIM1) Model, developed by Space Environment Corp, Providence, UT.  The ensemble forecast capability will produce a several-day forecast of the solar wind and ionosphere.  First, the contractor will determine model and data uncertainties of the SWMS.  Second, the contractor will produce an ensemble type forecast capability with “most probable” and associated uncertainties.  The uncertainties will contain both ensemble variation and known model uncertainties.  Ionospheric representation of uncertainties will be developed in collaboration with Air Force Weather Agency scientists for space weather needs.  Submission Due Date: March 19, 2010.

    Posted Date: March 9, 2010

    Solicitation Number: FA4600-10-T-8603

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    Integrated High Payoff Rocket Propulsion Technology (IHPRPT) Program – The IHPRPT Program will conduct a restricted attendance meeting on 31 Mar – 1 Apr, 2010 in Washington D.C. Government representatives will provide briefings on rocket propulsion technology development efforts and plans supporting attainment of the program’s science and technology goals. Information that is restricted under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Arms Export Control Act and information that is classified shall be discussed.  All non-Government attendees will be required to be U.S. citizens and to supply a copy of their organization’s export control certification resulting from their form DD2345, Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement (MCTDA). To download and complete a copy of the form DD2345, see this site for information obtaining your MCTDA or export control certification:  http://www.dlis.dla.mil/jcp/documents.aspx.  Depending on the final agenda accommodations may be made for sections of the meeting being unclassified for interested parties without a security clearance. Companies interested in participating in this meeting shall contact Ms. Patricia Szybist, JHU/CPIAC, at (410) 992-7302, ext. 215 or e-mail: [email protected] NLT 1600 EST on the 24th of March 2010. Attendance from any one firm may be limited to maximize participation.

    Posted Date: March 8, 2010

    Solicitation Number: IHPRPT-Meeting

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    Composite, Hybrid, and Thermally Engineered Materials (CHATEM) – The Non-metallic Materials Division (AFRL/RXB) is soliciting for Research and Development on advanced composite, hybrid, and thermally engineered materials. Integration of Composite, Hybrid and Thermally Engineered Materials is critical to the success of the effort. The goal is the development of materials and processing methodologies that are vital to create advanced materials and devices for future AF systems.  Research Areas of Emphasis include: 1) Composite-Based Materials Synthesis and Functionalization; 2) Composite/Hybrid Materials Processing; 3) Composite/Hybrid Development; 4) Thermally Engineered Materials Development; 5) Interface Studies; 6) Computational Modeling and Simulation; 7) Various Materials Testing Techniques.  Total Funding: $44.5M.  Eligibility: All. Proposal Due Date: May 5, 2010.

    Posted Date: March 8, 2010

    Solicitation Number: BAA-10-09-PKM

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    Integrated Command & Control – Meeting the demands of assigned missions requires unprecedented amount of coordination and synchronization of military resources across all organizations and all echelons of command in all levels of war. It is command and control (C2) that provides the means by which a commander synchronizes and/or integrates force activities in order to achieve the commonly recognized objectives in one unity of effort. These activities require key decisions within the strategy, planning, scheduling and assessment phases of the command and control process. These decisions are made by humans and are supported by computer technology so it is in these areas that information technology contributes the most to ameliorating human capabilities and transforming how the Air Force commands and controls.  The goal of the Integrated C2 program is to lead the discovery, development and integration of revolutionary warfighting information technologies that enable continuous and distributed, planning, execution, and assessment of resources across the cyber, air and space domains to achieve commander’s intent. Air Force Research Laboratory is seeking innovative white papers to address the following thrusts: 1) Strategy Development; 2) Synchronized/Integrated Planning; and 3) Continuous Assessment.  Total Funding: $43.2M; Awards will range from $100K to $1M per year.  Eligibility: All.  Submission Dates: October 1, 2010; October 3, 2011; October 1, 2012; October 1, 2013; October 1, 2014.

    Posted Date: March 8, 2010

    Solicitation Number: BAA-10-01-RIKA

  • 2011 Scion tC video brings updated sport compact into sharper focus

    Filed under: , , , ,


    2011 Scion tC: Sneak Peek – Click above for image gallery

    Thanks to our anonymous tipster from earlier in the day, we know a lot more about the updated 2011 Scion tC than we did yesterday. Tomorrow we’ll know even more when the new car debuts at the 2010 New York Auto Show. In the meantime, Scion itself has released a video that confirms many of our tipster’s earlier details, as well as provides some unfettered views of the new tC’s design.

    The video, which can be viewed after the jump, confirms that the tC will be available with a slightly larger engine at 2.5 liters of displacement compared to the current model’s 2.4 liters. We don’t know yet how much little extra bit of volume will translate into extra horsepower, but the man in the video says there will be more than before (torque too). Add to that confirmation of both a six-speed manual and automatic transmission, improved fuel economy, 18-inch alloy wheels, bigger brakes and an eight-speaker stereo with a USB port.

    The video also shows a few fast glimpses of the ’11 tC’s redesigned exterior, which we’ve captured and gallerized below in the hope that a few seizures from the video’s quick cuts might be prevented. Regardless, It won’t be long until the teasing stops and the 2011 Scion tC greets the world onstage in the Big Apple tomorrow.

    [Source: Scion]

    Continue reading 2011 Scion tC video brings updated sport compact into sharper focus

    2011 Scion tC video brings updated sport compact into sharper focus originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 22:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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  • Ubisoft: Splinter Cell: Conviction is Xbox 360 exclusive, it’s not going to PS3

    With the release of Splinter Cell: Conviction just around the corner, many gamers are still hoping that the game would eventually find its way over to the PS3. However, according to Ubisoft, Conviction is still an Xbox

  • Starcraft 2 Patch 7 change logs and patch notes

    Starcraft 2 Patch 7 release notes and change logs

    Balance Changes

    TERRAN

    Banshee

    The health has been increased from 130 to 140.

    Missile Turret

    The damage has been changed from 7+7 armored to 12.

    Thor

    Anti-Air damage has been decreased from 10+6 light to 8+4 light.
    Anti-Air attack now deals splash damage in a 0.5 radius.

    PROTOSS

    High Templar

    The Psi Storm radius has been decreased […]

    No related posts.


  • Russian WWII Veterans Asked To Pay Up For Singing Old War Songs

    We’ve talked in the past about how the Russian Authors’ Society has made bands pay up to play their own songs, and now apparently it’s going after some Russian WWII veterans for getting together and singing old war songs. Patriotism and nostalgia, apparently, aren’t free. We’ve discussed this before, of course. The value in artistic works is often in the shared culture around them — but thanks to copyright, we’re putting up a big tollbooth on any attempt to further share those experiences. It’s a huge hindrance on actually spreading culture and seems to go against the very purpose of copyright law.

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  • Government: Social Security, Exit Paper, Elizabeth Warren, USG Single A?, Greenspan, Soros Fix, Paco on Ben, Ben X 2, Plosser, Summers, Make 6 Figures, Krasting on Health Insurance

    bill-coppedge-dec09-1 original content selection by MortgageNewsClips.com

     

    business-insider

    Whoops, Social Security Just Went Bust – Henry BlodgetSocial Security will pay out more in benefits than it receives in payroll taxes this year, the first big milestone on the road to its eventual insolvency.  Thanks to a surge in benefits and a collapse in paychecks, this plunge into the red comes 6 years faster than the most recent CBO estimate predicted (It had been 2016)Business Insider

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    zerohedge

    has 65 page report – Can Government Exit The Housing Market – Submitted by Tyler Durden – Some very useful and surprisingly objective perspectives on the housing market from V.S.Srinivasan, Rajiv Setia and Sandeep Bordia of Barclays.  – Zero Hedge

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    nyt

    Elizabeth Warren profile – Behind Consumer Agency Idea, a Tireless Advocate – By JODI KANTOR – Ask Elizabeth Warren, scourge of Wall Street bankers, how they treat consumers, and she will shake her head with indignation…. Among all the dramatis personae of post-financial crisis Washington, there is no one remotely like Ms. Warren, 60, who has divided the town between those who admire her and those who roll their eyes at her. … – NY Times

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    surly1 surly-trader

    US Government Single A Rated? – Negative swap spreads cannot be a good omen for the financial markets.  …  that this curve represents the level of interest rate that banks and financial institutions of AA ratings quality are willing to lend to each other at.  If this is the case, the simple fact that US treasuries are trading at interest rate levels that are higher than swap rates would suggest that the US Government has a credit quality that is lower than the AA rated financial institutions.  … – Surly Trader

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    washington-post

    ‘Garbage, in one word’ – Ezra Klein – James Galbraith is not impressed with Alan Greenspan’s defense of his record:  In 66 pages, Mr. Greenspan fails to use the word "responsibility" even once. The word "blame" does not appear. The word "mistake" occurs once; financial firms made them. The word "failure" appears 14 times. None of them are self-referential. … – Washington Post

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    politico

    By GEORGE SOROS – Reforming a broken mortgage system – … What needs to be done is clear: The GSEs’ mortgage insurance function must be separated from mortgage financing.  The former, mortgage insurance, is the legitimate function of a government agency, especially when the private sector has collapsed. A mortgage insurance entity should be run as a government agency.  But mortgage financing should revert to the private sector. This would get rid of a business model that has failed.  There is a proven mortgage financing system already up and running. The Danish model … – Politico

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    paco1 bottom-violation

    Bernanke Wants to Keep Rates Low, but Treasuries Aren’t Complying – Paco Ahlgren – The Bottom Violation

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    washington-post

    Bernanke says Fed is receptive to selling security holdings – By Neil Irwin – Washington Post 

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    frb-board

    Testimony – Chairman Ben S. Bernanke – Federal Reserve’s exit strategyFR Board of Governors

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    businessweek

    Plosser Says Fed May Sell MBS Before Raising Rates, WSJ Says – By Steve Matthews – The Federal Reserve should consider selling some of its portfolio of $1.25 trillion of agency mortgage-backed securities before raising its target interest rate, Philadelphia Federal Reserve Bank President Charles Plosser said in an interview with the Wall Street Journal. – Bloomberg BusinessWeek

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    the-street1

    Summers Leaving White House?: Report – By Eric Rosenbaum – …and now it looks like the latest Obama economics team member to be on the receiving end of the unlucky bullet is the head of the White House’s National Economic Council, Larry Summers  … – TheStreet.com 

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    politico

    2,000 House staffers make six figuresPolitico.com

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    bk1 bruce-krasting

    What Healthcare Success? – Bruce Krasting – You have seen this before so please excuse the personal rant. Follows is a copy of a notice from my heavyweight health care provider, UnitedHealthcare/Oxford. Note that at the renewal rate insurance for a family of four now costs $58,600 a year. … How many people are getting letters like this? Not many. 4-5 million is my guess. … Disclosure: Long time Dem. Until recently, a district leader for the party. Steady contributor. Pissed. … – Bruce Krasting Blog

  • Novell Wins Yet Again; Says SCO Never Got Unix Copyrights

    Could the case that never ends finally end? As you may recall, years back SCO sued IBM, claiming that Linux infringed on Unix, whose rights SCO acquired earlier. Except… in 2003 Novell tossed a bit of a firecracker into the whole thing by noting that it still owned the copyrights on Unix. The case went back and forth for ages, with a lot of questionable activity (including questions concerning Microsoft’s supposed funding of SCO’s activities), including accusations that the whole thing was an attempt to pump-and-dump SCO stock. Back in 2008, we thought it was finally over when a judge ruled that Novell owned the copyrights, leading many to expect SCO to finally just die off. Instead, it declared bankruptcy, got a lifeline and continued the fight — leading to an appeals court ruling that the question over copyright ownership needed to be determined by a jury rather than a judge. As we noted at the time, this was hardly (as SCO’s Darl McBride insisted) a vindication for SCO — it was just another chance for SCO to lose in court.

    And lose, it did. As was widely expected, the jury has that Novell owns the copyrights on Unix and SCO basically has no case. Once again, this suggests that SCO has never had a case, and has just been wasting everyone’s time (and a lot of people’s money) for a long, long, long time.

    But, of course, it’s probably not over yet. SCO says it will continue the original lawsuit against IBM, saying that it won’t be over copyright, but breach of contract claims. Of course, it’s now been almost a decade and we still haven’t seen what it is that IBM did wrong. SCO still hasn’t shown anyone what code breached what contract. However, as Groklaw notes, even if SCO (with what money?) keeps fighting the lawsuit against IBM over contract terms, that’s a much more limited lawsuit, as the terms are just between IBM and SCO — and wouldn’t impact the wider “Linux” ecosystem, since others did not sign any kind of contract with SCO. Still, at some point, you would hope that the folks still left at SCO involved in this case realize enough is enough and just let it die.

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  • 2011 Nissan Quest teased… and it looks good

    Besides the 2011 Nissan Juke crossover, Nissan is teasing the next-generation Quest for the 2011 model year. Taking its inspiration from the Nissan Forum Concept, the next-generation Quest minivan seems like it will be a strong competitor for the Honda Odyssey.

    “The new Quest, which will be available in early 2011, is the perfect vehicle for buyers needing the size, safety, functionality and comfort that a minivan has to offer, without sacrificing style or driving pleasure,” Nissan said in a statement.

    – By: Kap Shah


  • Reader Spy: 2011 Scion tC caught on New York show stand ahead of reveal, looks much the same *Updated

    Filed under: , , , ,

    We have always thought that the Scion tC was a pretty tidy looking little hatchback, but as it’s been on sale since 2004, well, it’s gotten a bit tired, even though there are very few inexpensive front-drive sport-ish coupes to choose from these days. With that in mind, we’ve been looking forward to the introduction of the long-awaited 2011 model, expecting a fairly radical step forward. Judging by this new spy shot from an anonymous tipster, perhaps we ought to temper our expectations a bit.

    While the single snapshot in question is blurry and blown out, it does show what appears to be a new lower fascia, grille, wheels, and side mirrors. The headlamps are too washed out under the showstand’s high-power lights to tell if they’ve been altered (it appears that the photo was taken during a presentation rehearsal ahead tomorrow’s New York Auto Show reveal), but it’s reasonable to assume that the tC will receive new lights both front and rear, as they’re a hallmark of almost any vehicle refresh.

    As for what lies underneath the reskin, we’re not yet sure, as the only thing to have slipped out about the new model that appears credible are a few official-looking detail shots that reveal items like a new manual shift mode for the automatic transmission and revamped HVAC controls.

    We’ll have more on the 2011 tC after Scion’s press conference tomorrow, but in the meantime, you can play a game of “spot the differences” from the outgoing car by checking out our high-res gallery of Scion’s latest special edition model below.

    *UPDATE:
    Our man with the spy cam has offered up the following details about the 2011 tC:

    • 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (2010 model has a 2.4-liter)
    • Six-speed manual or automatic gearbox with sequential shifter
    • 18-inch wheels standard (with wider tires)
    • Traction and stability control (defeatable)
    • Wider track for improved stance
    • Flat-bottom steering wheel “one of the best feeling out there (comparable to the one used in the GTI), very thick”
    • Improved seats with “good bolsters and shoulder height bolsters, too”
    • Improved rear headroom (but panoramic moonroof stays)
    • Overall, a “very nice feeling interior (for the price point and even above)”
    • Eight-speaker stereo standard
    • Single outlet exhaust (“would like nice with a dual back there”)

    We’ll see if our inside man is right on the money tomorrow.

    Reader Spy: 2011 Scion tC caught on New York show stand ahead of reveal, looks much the same *Updated originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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  • Joe Biden On Taxes: You Call It “Redistribution Of Wealth,” I Call It “Just Being Fair”

    Part 2 of my TechTicker colleague Aaron Task’s sitdown with VP Joe Biden…

    Aaron Task: With the April 15 tax filing deadline rapidly approaching, Vice President Joe Biden wants all Americans to know about the roughly $300 billion in tax breaks that were part of the Recovery Act passed last year.

    There is a tax calculator on the White House web site to help Americans determine whether they’re eligible for any or all of the following:

    • Making Work Pay: The Work Pay tax credit of $400 for an individual or $800 for married couples filing jointly.
    • College Expenses: Families and students are eligible for up to $2,500 in tax savings.
    • Home Sweet Home: Homebuyers can get a credit of up to $8,000 for first homes purchased by April 30, 2010.
    • Cash for Caulkers: Taxpayers are eligible for up to $1,500 in tax credits for making some energy-efficiency improvements to their homes.
    • New Vehicle Purchases: Taxpayers can deduct state and local sales taxes or fees for vehicle purchases. (Note: this is in addition to the “Cash for Clunkers” program of last fall.)
    • Expanded Family Credits: Moderate income families with children may be eligible for an increase under the Earned Income Tax Credit and the additional Child Tax Credit.
    • Tax-free Jobless Benefits: The first $2,400 of unemployment benefits received in 2009 tax free.

    In part two of my exclusive interview, I asked the Vice President whether we can afford these tax cuts, given the country’s massive federal deficits. Biden’s view is that we can’t afford not to do them: “We can’t afford to leave the middle class behind,” he says. “These things matter to people who are struggling and they matter to people who have lost their jobs as well.”

    There’s also the issue of whether these tax cuts, in conjunction with the health care reform bill signed last week, represent a redistribution of wealth in America, as many claim.

    “It’s a simple proposition to us: Everyone is entitled to adequate medical health care,” Biden says. “If you call that a ‘redistribution of income’ — well, so be it. I don’t call it that. I call it just being fair — giving the middle class taxpayers an even break that the wealthy have been getting.”

    The top quintile of Americans earned 55.7% of pretax income and paid 69.3% of federal taxes in 2006, according to the most recent CBO data. But the Vice President isn’t buying the idea that the wealthiest are already paying their fair share, noting the top 1% of earners get 22% of all income made in the U.S.

    “Taxes have been lowered for the wealthy considerably over the years,” he says. “It’s about time we get a little tax equity here.”

    Earlier: Joe Biden: Recovery Act Responsible for “Significant Portion” of Economic Turnaround

    Join the conversation about this story »

  • Here Are The 7 Ways The Government Is Still Supporting House Prices — And When They’ll End

    Atlas Holding World

    One of the key questions is: Will house prices fall as the government support for housing eases? From CNBC: Housing Prices May Be Heading for a Double Dip

    Anyone thinking housing prices have reached a bottom had better do some recalculating. Despite Tuesday’s Case Schiller report showing smaller declines in January, housing prices may already be in another free fall.

    Newly revised numbers are pointing to the decline.

    Keep reading at Calculated Risk >

    Join the conversation about this story »

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