Tax Incentive to Stay Alive

Now some fresh pickings from the Political Grapevine:

Death and Taxes

The taxman cometh, but maybe not in 2010 for some wealthy Americans. The estate tax is due to expire Thursday, meaning estates valued at more than $3.5 million would no longer be taxed at 45 percent. Instead, the rate would drop to zero and return at a higher level in 2011.

That presents some families with ethical quandaries, according to the Wall Street Journal. One wealthy, terminally-ill patient told his doctor he's determined to make it to the New Year and beat the tax, asking each day: "What day is it? Is it January 1st yet?'"

But there is a good chance Congress will pass a new law restoring the death tax retroactive to the first of the year.

Silver Lining

Delta Airlines is offering a make good for passengers on that Detroit-bound flight that was almost blown up on Christmas. The company is handing out credit vouchers for future travel.

Delta is also trying to get in touch with the Dutch man who jumped out of his seat and subdued the would-be bomber, offering him more free travel.

Unsportsmanlike Conduct?

A political action committee filed a complaint this week asking Arizona's secretary of state to investigate allegations the Fiesta Bowl coordinated campaign contributions to political candidates and reimbursed employees who made the donations.

The Fiesta Bowl wants to continue the current Bowl Championship Series. Playoff PAC is dedicated to doing away with the BCS and moving to a playoff system for college football.

— FOX News Channel's Lanna Britt contributed to this report.