As we head into earnings season, the top international news stories, mostly about Iraq, continue to steal the thunder from some pretty good company earnings.  By the end of today, 95 of the S&P 500 will have reported their earnings.  First Call reports that the number of reports beating expectations is well ahead of this time last year.  Granted, the comparisons are pretty easy, but hey, let’s enjoy a little good news.  Many of the major banks reported strong results this week.  Bank of America’s 4th Quarter net income rose 27% and beat average analysts’ estimates by $.06.  BB&T reported a 21% increase in earnings.