As for Hello Kitty, the 25-year-old character may become as durable as Mickey Mouse.

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There has been significant worry that the threat of a big dose of tax increases and spending cuts at the start of the new year would lead companies to hold back, but the durable goods figure was up 0.7% in November, slightly better than expected.

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Other projects being funded this year include an effort to develop a smaller, less costly and more durable fuel cell power system that will enable commercialization of U.S. fuel cell buses, and an effort to develop and demonstrate a lightweight highly efficient bus that incorporates an improved hybrid-electric drive and enhanced bus design.

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" The National Association of Manufacturers earlier this year called his budget "a credible, fiscally responsible budget plan that will pave the way for durable economic growth and job creation in the United States.

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