Congress ends year with Patriot Act extension and Gulf Coast aid
Congress approved a defense spending bill routing 29 billion to Gulf Coast and 50 billion for Iraq and Afghanistan. The Patriot Act extension keeps anti-terror powers until Feb 3, enabling ongoing surveillance and wiretaps. The package includes 3.8 billion for bird flu preparedness and levee work for New Orleans.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Congress
Gulf Coast
Iraq
Pentagon
Afghanistan
FBI
United States
Bush
White House
Camp David
House
New Orleans
Alaska National Wildlife Refuge
Businesses plan to keep hiring in 06 Odessa area
Odessa area employers forecast steady hiring in early 2006 as an employment firm reports 17 percent plan increases from January to March while none expect payroll cuts. Eighty three percent foresee unchanged staffing, softer than Q4 when 23 percent anticipated growth.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Odessa Area
Melani Payne
Manpower Inc
Odessa
Rumsfeld signals troop cuts in Iraq plan
Defense Secretary Rumsfeld and U S officials indicate reductions in Iraq force to about 130 000 to 133 000, trimming 5 000 to 7 000 by canceling two Army brigades. Moves aim for later spring announcement as Iraqi forces show leadership progress amid casualties and calls to shorten U S participation.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Baghdad
Iraq
United States
Defense
Donald H. Rumsfeld
U.S
Defense Department
Bush
Rumsfeld
Plo
If You Go Andrews Towns Light Display Details
Andrews residents showcase animated Christmas light displays through early January. Maps available by calling the chamber at 523-2695 for directions.
Andrews town lights go animated with music tied displays
Andrews residents display synchronized light shows at homes and businesses each about five minutes long. James Varner, Palmer of Texas owner, inspired the decorations with three 20 foot diameter talking poinsettias. Townspeople embraced the idea and prepared similar displays across the area.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
James Varner
Palmer of
Texas
Andrews
Varner
North Andrews
Palmer of Texas
U.S. Highway 385
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