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Commerce Deputy Secretary Addresses Annual Update Conference on Export Controls and Policy
Washington (Sept. 30)—U.S. Commerce Deputy Secretary John J. Sullivan delivered the keynote luncheon speech at the Bureau of Industry and Security’s (BIS) annual Update Conference on Export Controls and Policy. The U.S. export control system is designed to enhance U.S. national security, as well as facilitate U.S. strategic technology leadership. Nearly 1,000 business leaders, exporters and U.S. government officials as well as representatives from other nations participated in the two days of seminars and meetings on current export control and international trade issues. (More)
NOAA Provides Information on Keeping Seafood Safe and Plentiful
Washington (Sept. 30)—The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has developed a comprehensive Web site that offers valuable information on availability, safety, quality, preparation, and health guidelines for your favorite seafood. New figures show that Americans eat more than 16 pounds of seafood per person each year. But what to eat, how much, and the availability of certain seafood gets confusing. Americans eat everything from salmon caught in Alaska and shrimp raised in farms off the China coast, to orange roughy from the deep trenches of the Southern Pacific. (More)
Consumers Urged to Apply for Converter Box Coupons by Year-End
Washington (Sept. 30)—The Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced that “over-the-air” television viewers who want to participate in the TV Converter Box Coupon Program should apply for coupons before the end of the year to minimize the chances of losing TV reception when full-power broadcasters switch to digital. Full-power TV broadcasters switch from analog to 100 percent digital broadcasts on February 17, 2009. (More)
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President Bush Presents Nation’s Highest Honor for Technological and Scientific Achievement
Washington (Sept. 29)—President George W. Bush delivered remarks and presented the 2007 National Medals of Science and Technology and Innovation in the East Room of the White House. "This is a joyous day for the White House as we honor some of our nation's most gifted and visionary men and women. I congratulate you all on your achievements,” President Bush said. On August 25, Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez joined the President in announcing and congratulating the 2007 laureates, the nation’s highest honor for technological and scientific achievement. (Remarks) (More)
Joint Report to Congress Forecasts Shortage of Marine Scientists
Washington (Sept. 29)—The departments of Commerce and Education are forecasting a serious shortage of scientists trained to do the high-quality research required to rebuild fish stocks and restore marine species in the next decade. A new joint report to Congress estimates the nation will need between 180 and 340 new fishery stock assessment scientists in the next 10 years, but current institutions will produce only 160. The report projects a shortage of between 20 and 180, with a likely shortage of between 100 and 180 stock assessment scientists for the nation in the next decade. (More)
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Secretary Gutierrez Leads CAFTA-DR Business Development Mission
Washington (Sept. 29)—U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez kicked-off a business development mission to the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica, which will highlight regional opportunities under the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR). Gutierrez is leading a business delegation of nine U.S. exporters from eight cities in seven states representing a wide range of industries that will travel the region from Sept. 28 to Oct. 2, 2008. The mission will promote U.S. exports and investment by facilitating business-to-business introductions and discussions with government officials, as well as provide first-hand market access information for participants. (More)
Gutierrez Set to Lead Trade Mission to the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica
Washington (Sept. 26)—In advance of his business development mission to the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica (Sept. 28-Oct. 2), U.S. Secretary of Commerce Carlos M. Gutierrez authored an opinion editorial in Diario Extra, Costa Rica’s daily newspaper. He wrote, “Democracies like ours with a history of political stability, social progress and a commitment to human rights will benefit the most from free trade and increased investment.” (Opinion Editorial)
Statement by Secretary Gutierrez on Revised Second Quarter GDP
Washington (Sept. 26)—Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today released the following statement on the final second quarter real gross domestic product (GDP), which showed that the American economy grew at a rate of 2.8 percent in the second quarter of 2008. “Today’s report shows that even in the midst of significant challenges, our economy continued to grow. Growth was not as robust as we’d like and we know that American families and businesses are concerned, especially in light of the recent turmoil in financial markets. We must work quickly and in a bipartisan way to pass a financial rescue package to stabilize financial markets and protect families across America.” (More)
NOAA Tracking Tropical Storm Kyle in Western Atlantic
Washington (Sept. 26)—The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Hurricane Center is tracking Tropical Storm Kyle and a warning remains in effect for the Northeastern United States and the Canadian Maritimes. Tropical Storm conditions are expected with maximum sustained winds near 60 miles per hour with higher gusts. Some strengthening is forecast during the next 24 hours and Kyle could become a hurricane by Saturday night. Preparations to protect life and property in this area should be rushed to completion. (Advisory) (Hurricane Preparedness)
NOAA Collaborates with Smithsonian on New Ocean Exhibit
Washington (Sept. 25)—Visitors to Washington, D.C. will find an exciting new way to explore the mysteries and wonders of the ocean right on the National Mall. The Sant Ocean Hall—opening September 27 at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History—combines 674 marine specimens and models, high-definition video experiences, one-of-a kind exhibits, and the newest technology, enabling visitors to explore the ocean’s past, present, and future as never before. U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez addressed the grand opening ceremony. (More) (Fact Sheet)