In Congress, the healthcare debate is a hot topic. These days, American families expect to spend a large portion of their income every year for items such as health insurance premiums, co-pays and prescriptions. A new survey by researchers at Duke University aims to help companies determine how much their healthcare costs will rise in 2010 and why.

There are many benchmarks that attempt to determine how an economy is performing. Some believe that the economy will truly be in a state of recovery when companies start ordering new equipment rather than just replacement parts. This measure has started to climb again after diving in 2008, but we still have a long way to go.

Although 2009 was another disappointing year for venture investors seeking liquidity, the fourth quarter showed signs of a venture-backed deal revival, according to a report released recently. Click on the following link to read more: http://www.cfo.com/printable/article.cfm/14465964

To help encourage even more donations to Haiti relief efforts, the IRS has stepped in to provide a new tax incentive. Taxpayers who donate after January 11, 2010, and before March 1, 2010 to charities providing earthquake relief in Haiti can claim these donations on their 2009 tax return in the coming weeks. This deduction is subject to some specific details, so please click below to read more.

Our hearts go out to the people of Haiti who suffered a devastating earthquake last week. In addition to food and other basic necessities, there is an urgent need for medical supplies. AGH is focusing efforts to help raise money through MedShare, a leading not-for-profit specializing in delivering medical supplies to developing countries. Click this link to learn how you can donate to this important relief effort.  

http://www.medshare.org/donate/critical-need-alert