Update: Confirmed human infections with avian influenza A (H5N1) virus in Turkey

Update: Confirmed human infections with avian influenza A (H5N1) virus in Turkey: "According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 11 additional patients have tested positive for the H5 subtype of avian influenza virus in Turkey. The full laboratory confirmation of these patient cases as H5N1 would bring the total number of human cases to 15."

FDA Cautions Consumers Against Filling U.S. Prescriptions Abroad

FDA Cautions Consumers Against Filling U.S. Prescriptions Abroad: "The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning healthcare professionals and consumers that filling their prescriptions abroad may have adverse health consequences because of confusion with drug brand names that could inadvertently lead consumers to take the wrong medication for their condition"

ICE FINANCIAL INVESTIGATIVE EFFORTS EXPAND TO COMBAT GROWING MONEY LAUNDERING THREATS

ICE FINANCIAL INVESTIGATIVE EFFORTS EXPAND TO COMBAT GROWING MONEY LAUNDERING THREATS: "WASHINGTON, D.C. - At a ceremony today to unveil the national Money Laundering Threat Assessment, Julie Myers, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), highlighted ICE's innovative efforts and ongoing commitment to combat those money laundering threats identified in the report. "

Apple QuickTime Vulnerabilities

Apple QuickTime Vulnerabilities: "Apple has released Apple QuickTime 7.0.4 to correct several vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities could allow an attacker to gain access to your computer. "

Mississippians Should Avoid Scam Artists When Contracting Services For Rebuilding And Recovery Projects

Mississippians Should Avoid Scam Artists When Contracting Services For Rebuilding And Recovery Projects: "It�s been almost five months since Hurricane Katrina destroyed Gulf Coast communities, and many residents in Mississippi are hiring contractors to complete repairs and cleaning projects in their homes and businesses as they recover from the disaster. The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) caution victims of the storm not to become victims a second time by falling prey to scam artists and disreputable contractors."

U.S. Department of Labor Announces $190,000 Grant To Help Train Iowa Workers

U.S. Department of Labor Announces $190,000 Grant To Help Train Iowa Workers: "WASHINGTON � The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a National Emergency Grant of $190,000 to help train workers in Iowa dislocated as a result of the closure of Citicorp Credit Services Inc. in West Des Moines"

Women�s Sports Foundation & Gatorade Grant Announcement -- GoGirlGo! Ambassador Team Awards

Women's Sports Foundation & Gatorade Grant Announcement -- GoGirlGo! Ambassador Team Awards: "In conjunction with the GoGirlGo! National Campaign that is aiming to get one million inactive girls to participate in physical activity and keep another one million currently active girls from dropping out of physical activity, Gatorade and the Women's Sports Foundation are supporting a second year of the GoGirlGo! "

New Funding Opportunity: Hurricane Katrina Relief Award Application

New Funding Opportunity: Hurricane Katrina Relief Award Application: "The NN/LM SE/A regional office is offering the Katrina Relief Award to Network member libraries and health care clinics and hospitals in Mississippi that were adversely affected by Hurricane Katrina. The Award can be used to replace equipment, connections or resources that were lost due to the storm."

Clinical Trials: Robots for Stroke Survivors

Clinical Trials: Robots for Stroke Survivors: "We are looking for individuals who have suffered a stroke to participate in an experiment examining the use of robotics in rehabilitation. We are trying to develop a robotic environment for hands after stroke. "

Senior Delegation to Visit Ethiopia-Eritrea Border

Senior Delegation to Visit Ethiopia-Eritrea Border: "Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Jendayi E. Frazer will visit the Ethiopia-Eritrea border in mid-January. Five years after the signing of the Algiers agreements, which ended the 1998-2000 border war, it is clear that the boundary must be demarcated to finally resolve this crisis"

KEEPING GOOD TAX RECORDS

KEEPING GOOD TAX RECORDS: "You can avoid headaches at tax time by keeping track of your receipts and other records throughout the year. Good record-keeping will help you remember the various transactions you made during the year, which in turn may make filing your return a less taxing experience."

Federal Bank and Thrift Agencies Propose Guidance On Commercial Real Estate Lending

Federal Bank and Thrift Agencies Propose Guidance On Commercial Real Estate Lending: "The federal bank and thrift regulatory agencies on Tuesday issued for comment proposed guidance on sound risk management practices for concentrations in commercial real estate lending.
The agencies have observed that some institutions have high and increasing concentrations of commercial real estate loans where repayment primarily is dependent on rental income or from the proceeds of the sale, refinancing, or permanent financing of the property."

Selecting a CPA on the Internet

Selecting a CPA on the Internet: "It is now possible to purchase public accounting services on the Internet. While this appears to be a convenient way to access a broad range of services, it is important to 'do your homework' before selecting a practitioner. Keep in mind that because Internet practice involves no face-to-face client contact, it may be easier for unqualified persons to masquerade as licensees."

Microsoft Windows, Outlook, and Exchange Vulnerabilities

Microsoft Windows, Outlook, and Exchange Vulnerabilities: "Microsoft has released updates that address critical vulnerabilities in Windows, Outlook, and Exchange. "

Genetic Linkage Studies of Stuttering

Genetic Linkage Studies of Stuttering: "Stuttering is an abnormality in speech that affects the rhythm of speech. People who stutter know what they wish to say, but at the time are unable to say it because of involuntary repetition, unnecessary lengthening (prolongation), or early stopping (cessation). Stuttering is characterized by repetitions or prolongation of the first syllable, or silent prolongations, sometimes known as blocks. "

Treatment for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence

Treatment for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: "Urinary incontinence (UI) is the complaint of any involuntary leakage of urine. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the complaint of involuntary leakage on effort or exertion, or on sneezing or coughing. The prevalence of female UI is greater than that of male, and the commonest type is SUI."

FEMA/HUD Program Deadline Extended

FEMA/HUD Program Deadline Extended: "MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- Displaced victims of Hurricane Katrina who still need permanent, long-term housing now have more time to sign up for a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)/U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) housing program. "

Top 10 Organizations Receiving Most U.S. Patents

Top 10 Organizations Receiving Most U.S. Patents: "The Department of Commerce�s United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced today the 2005 top 10 global private sector patent recipients. Listed below are the 10 corporations receiving the most U.S. patents for inventions in 2005, along with their 2004 ranking."

Advice for Choosing a Tax Return Preparer

Advice for Choosing a Tax Return Preparer: "Taxpayers who pay someone to do their taxes should choose a preparer wisely. Taxpayers are ultimately responsible for everything on their return even when it's prepared by someone else. While most tax return preparers are professional and honest, taxpayers can use the following tips to choose a preparer who will offer the best service for their tax preparation needs."

FDA Approves First Immune Globulin for Subcutaneous Use

FDA Approves First Immune Globulin for Subcutaneous Use: "FDA today announced the approval of the first immune globulin product for subcutaneous injection for the prevention of serious infections in patients with Primary Immune Deficiency Diseases (PIDD)"

DNDO to Conduct Nuclear Detector Systems Testing in Nevada from Jan. 9 through Feb. 3, 2006

DNDO to Conduct Nuclear Detector Systems Testing in Nevada from Jan. 9 through Feb. 3, 2006: "The Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) announced that it will be testing current and prototype next-generation handheld and mobile nuclear detectors at the Nevada Test Site (NTS) from Jan. 9 through Feb. 3, 2006. "

Supreme Court Lets Stand Appeals Court Ruling That AmeriCorps Members May Teach Secular Subjects in Religious Schools

Supreme Court Lets Stand Appeals Court Ruling That AmeriCorps Members May Teach Secular Subjects in Religious Schools: "With this action, there is clear judicial support for continuing to allow AmeriCorps members to teach secular subjects in religious schools. It also ensures that AmeriCorps members don"t lose their right to religious expression on their own time because they answer the call to serve their country."

Business, Construction & Health Care Payroll Employment Up in 2005

Business, Construction & Health Care Payroll Employment Up in 2005: "Professional and business services employment increased by 486,000 over the year. Employment in the health care industry expanded by 271,000"

Be sure to get 400 mcg of folic acid daily BEFORE you become pregnant...

Be sure to get 400 mcg of folic acid daily BEFORE you become pregnant...: "Folic acid is a B vitamin. It is used in our bodies to make new cells. If a woman has enough folic acid in her body before she is pregnant, it can help prevent major birth defects of her baby's brain and spine. "

Live Broadcast of Supreme Court Session Jan. 10th , 9-12 PST

Live Broadcast of Supreme Court Session Jan. 10th , 9-12 PST: "The California Supreme Court will televise the first three of six cases on its January 2006 calendar, to be held Tuesday, January 10, in the Supreme Court Courtroom.

OSHA Finds Safety Violations at Tucker Excavation & Pipeline's Kootenai, Idaho, Worksite

OSHA Finds Safety Violations at Tucker Excavation & Pipeline's Kootenai, Idaho, Worksite: "SEATTLE -- The U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Tucker Excavation and Pipeline of Sandpoint, Idaho, for alleged safety violations found during an inspection following a fatal trenching accident July 21, 2005, at a Kootenai, Idaho, worksite. Proposed penalties total $ 25,950."

AHRQ Releases 2005 National Healthcare Quality And Disparities Reports

AHRQ Releases 2005 National Healthcare Quality And Disparities Reports: "Quality of health care for Americans has continued to improve at a modest pace, and health care disparities are narrowing overall for many minority Americans. But for Hispanics, disparities have widened in both quality of care and access to care, according to reports by HHS' Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)."

Afghanistan Travel Warning to U.S. Citizens

Afghanistan Travel Warning to U.S. Citizens: "The Department of State strongly warns U.S. citizens against travel to Afghanistan. There is an ongoing threat to kidnap and assassinate U.S. citizens and Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) workers throughout the country"

New Workshop to Protect Patients from Counterfeit Drugs

New Workshop to Protect Patients from Counterfeit Drugs: "The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will hold a public workshop and vendor display on the use of radio-frequency identification (RFID) to combat counterfeit drugs. The meeting will be held on February 8 and 9, 2006, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Select Bethesda, 8120 Wisconsin Ave, Bethesda, Maryland."

USFA Releases 2005 Firefighter Fatality Statistics

USFA Releases 2005 Firefighter Fatality Statistics: "Emmitsburg, MD- The United States Fire Administration (USFA) announced today, this nation suffered 106 on-duty firefighter fatalities in the United States in 2005. In addition to these fatalities, the USFA has learned of 4 firefighter fatalities in 2005 related to injuries suffered in years prior to 2005."

Planning a Cruise Vacation? Cruising Tips and facts about Noroviruses on Cruise Ships...

Planning a Cruise Vacation? Cruising Tips and facts about Noroviruses on Cruise Ships...: "CDC�s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) protects passenger and crew health by minimizing the risk of gastrointestinal illness aboard cruise ships. VSP accomplishes this mission through sanitation inspections, disease surveillance and investigations, onsite inspections of new ship construction and renovation and reviewing construction plans for new ships."

SHOULD YOU ITEMIZE?

SHOULD YOU ITEMIZE?: "Whether to itemize deductions on your tax return depends on how much you spent on certain expenses last year. Money paid for medical care, mortgage interest, taxes, charitable contributions, casualty losses, and miscellaneous deductions can reduce your taxes. "

FEMA Denial Letters May Not Be Last Word

FEMA Denial Letters May Not Be Last Word: "Some Louisiana victims of Hurricane Katrina and/or Rita may be getting the wrong message after receiving letters from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) saying their applications have been denied. In most cases, these letters may not be the last word for those who decide to appeal the denial decision"

Disaster Recovery Aid Exceeds $588.9 Million For Hurricane Rita

Disaster Recovery Aid Exceeds $588.9 Million For Hurricane Rita: "Families and individuals who suffered damage from Hurricane Rita have been approved to receive more than $588.9 million in assistance from state, federal, local and voluntary agencies. These agencies are working in partnership to continue to help affected Texas residents"

Travel Trailers Fill A Temporary Housing Need

Travel Trailers Fill A Temporary Housing Need: "BATON ROUGE, La. -- When the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) made temporary travel trailers available to individuals affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the agency's intent was for them to be just that -- temporary."

Landslide Advisory for Seattle Washington and Neighboring Areas

Landslide Advisory for Seattle Washington and Neighboring Areas: "The U.S. Geological Survey has issued the following advisory of possible landslides for the Seattle area:
Western parts of King, Snohomish and Pierce Counties, Washington"

THE NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT BAND TO PERFORM AT THE 2006 NAMM SHOW

THE NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT BAND TO PERFORM AT THE 2006 NAMM SHOW: "CARLSBAD, Calif., NAMM, the International Music Products Association, announced that the New York City Police Department Band will perform at the 2006 NAMM Show in Anaheim, Calif., for the first time in the show's history."

Understanding Internationalized Domain Names

Understanding Internationalized Domain Names: "You may have been exposed to internationalized domain names (IDNs) without realizing it. While they typically do not affect your browsing activity, IDNs may give attackers an opportunity to redirect you to a malicious web page."

Preventing and Responding to Identity Theft

Preventing and Responding to Identity Theft: "You can be a victim of identity theft even if you never use a computer. Malicious people may be able to obtain personal information (such as credit card numbers, phone numbers, account numbers, and addresses) by stealing your wallet, overhearing a phone conversation, rummaging through your trash (a practice known as dumpster diving), or picking up a receipt at a restaurant that has your account number on it."

Magnesium and Asthma - Clinical Trials

Magnesium and Asthma - Clinical Trials: "Asthma currently affects an estimated 15 million Americans. A number of studies have found an association between low dietary magnesium (Mg) intake and increased asthma incidence and severity of symptoms. However, clinical intervention trials are necessary to directly assess whether there is a true protective or preventative causal relationship between low Mg and asthma"

Endometriosis : Traditional Medicine Vs Hormone Therapy

Endometriosis : Traditional Medicine Vs Hormone Therapy: "This 36-week study will determine whether traditional Chinese medicine (acupuncture and Chinese herbs) is as effective as hormone therapy for alleviating endometriosis-related pelvic pain. The study is currently recruiting patients"

Brain Images Show Effects of Stress

Brain Images Show Effects of Stress: "The holiday season is notorious for the emotional stress it evokes. Now, researchers have come up with a non-invasive way to see the effects of psychological stress in an area of the brain linked to anxiety and depression."

Reiki/Energy Healing in Prostate Cancer

Reiki/Energy Healing in Prostate Cancer: " The purpose of this study is to determine whether Reiki energy healing affects disease progression and anxiety in patients with localized prostate cancer who are candidates for radical prostatectomy. "

Fish Oil for the Treatment of Depression in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Fish Oil for the Treatment of Depression in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: "This study will determine whether fish oil can reduce depression in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) who are mild to moderately depressed and are currently taking antidepressant medication. "

Methods for Measuring Insulin Sensitivity

Methods for Measuring Insulin Sensitivity: "Patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, and who are overweight are known to have defects in the way their body responds to insulin. The purpose of this study is to develop better methods for measuring the way body tissue responds to insulin and sugar (glucose). "

Political Dissent and Due Process In Ethiopia

Political Dissent and Due Process In Ethiopia: "The United States remains gravely concerned by actions of the Government of Ethiopia in the cases of opposition, civil society, and media leaders, including five staff members of the Voice of America, charged with capital offenses.

Help With Prescription Drug Costs

Help With Prescription Drug Costs: "SSA and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are working together to provide persons with limited income and resources extra help paying for their prescription drugs. "

Absorption and Distribution of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Absorption and Distribution of Glucosamine and Chondroitin: "The purpose of this study is to examine the way the dietary supplements glucosamine and chondroitin are absorbed and distributed throughout the body. "

Two Bogus Anti-spyware Operators Settle FTC Charges

Two Bogus Anti-spyware Operators Settle FTC Charges: "Scans Detected Spyware That Wasn't There; Spyware Removal Software Claims Were False Settlements Require Defendants to Give Up Nearly $2 Million in Ill-Gotten Gains"

CPSC, Bombardier Recalls 2006 Snowmobiles

CPSC, Bombardier Recalls 2006 Snowmobiles: "Certain Model Year 2006 Ski-Doo REV500 SS, REV 600 HO, and REV 600 HO SDI Snowmobiles due to cracks that could appear in the starter ring gears allowing gear fragmentation at high speeds. "

2006 Childhood & Adolescent Immunization Schedule

2006 Childhood & Adolescent Immunization Schedule: "The childhood and adolescent immunization schedule and the catch-up immunization schedule for 2006 have been approved by Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)."

IRS and Treasury Change Reporting for Certain Transactions with Significant Book-Tax Differences

IRS and Treasury Change Reporting for Certain Transactions with Significant Book-Tax Differences: "Taxpayers are required to disclose to the IRS their participation in reportable transactions to the IRS. In certain cases, taxpayers' advisors are also required to disclose their involvement with reportable transactions to the IRS and to keep lists of participants in those transactions."

Trader Joe's Company Recalls Gourmet Chocolate Fudge Original

Trader Joe's Company Recalls Gourmet Chocolate Fudge Original: "Trader Joe's Company of Monrovia, California is recalling Trader Joe's Gourmet Chocolate Fudge (8 oz. original) code BB 07/01/06 LOT 008, because the product may contain walnuts that are not declared on the label. Since walnuts are an allergen, we're recalling the entire lot."

MARINERS CAN CHART COURSES AT NO CHARGE

MARINERS CAN CHART COURSES AT NO CHARGE: "Mariners can now get free electronic downloads of NOAA Raster Navigational Charts or RNCs. A raster chart is a digitally scanned image of a paper nautical chart used by mariners for navigation"

FEMA Provides Housing Options to Families in Hotels/Motels

FEMA Provides Housing Options to Families in Hotels/Motels: "BATON ROUGE, La. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is encouraging the 10,000 households in hotels and motels to find alternative housing -- or risk paying lodging bills themselves with their FEMA housing assistance funds. "

Record Homeowners Insurance Claim Payments from 2005 Hurricanes Equal to 25 Years of Louisiana Homeowners Premiums

Record Homeowners Insurance Claim Payments from 2005 Hurricanes Equal to 25 Years of Louisiana Homeowners Premiums: "The record total of homeowners insurance claims payments resulting from the 2005 hurricanes in Louisiana is enough to wipe out all homeowners premiums paid in the state during the past 25 years, as well as every dollar of homeowners insurance profits ever earned there."

Cyber Alert : Microsoft Windows Metafile Vulnerability

Cyber Alert : Microsoft Windows Metafile Vulnerability: "Microsoft has released an update that addresses a critical vulnerability in Windows Metafile images"

CHOOSE THE SIMPLEST FEDERAL TAX FORM FOR YOUR NEEDS

CHOOSE THE SIMPLEST FEDERAL TAX FORM FOR YOUR NEEDS: "The three forms used for filing individual federal income tax returns are Form 1040EZ, Form 1040A, and Form 1040. If you are filing a federal income tax return on paper, use the simplest form you can."

IRS Announces Additional Agreements to Assist Disaster Victims

IRS Announces Additional Agreements to Assist Disaster Victims: "The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP), the American Bar Association (ABA) Section of Taxation, the National Society of Accountants (NSA) and the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) are the latest organizations to join IRS employees in staffing disaster recovery centers and assisting taxpayers affected by recent hurricanes"

Xbox 360 Leads the Way in High-Definition Entertainment

Xbox 360 Leads the Way in High-Definition Entertainment: "Just a month after the global launch of the new Xbox 360- video game and entertainment system, Microsoft® Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates discussed the product's strong momentum in delivering high-definition hardware, games, and digital entertainment experiences. Xbox 360 is on track to be the fastest-selling video game console ever, forecast to ship between 4.5 million and 5.5 million units worldwide by the end of June 2006"

European Union Regional Factsheet

European Union Regional Factsheet -The European Union is comprised of 25 countries, with Bulgaria and Romania to be added in 2007.

Celebrating Women - Women�s History Month: March 2006

Celebrating Women - Women's History Month: March 2006: "149.1 million are the number of females in the United States as of July 1, 2004. That exceeds the number of males (144.5 million). Males outnumbered females in every five-year-age group through the 35- to 39-age group. Starting with the 40- to 44-age group, women outnumbered men"

California Free Small Business and Nonprofit Seminars

California Free Small Business and Nonprofit Seminars: "A free seminar for small business owners put on by several tax agencies to assist with tax aspects of your business. Talk to experts from the Board of Equalization, Internal Revenue Service, Franchise Tax Board and Employment Development Department."

File Your California Income Tax Return Online...FREE!

File Your California Income Tax Return Online...FREE! -Check out the online filing service built for you by the State of California. Doing your taxes is easier and more convenient than ever. e-file opens January 3, 2005.

CDC Seeks Public Input on CDC Health Protection Research Guide, 2006-2015

CDC Seeks Public Input on CDC Health Protection Research Guide, 2006-2015 -CDC is seeking comments from researchers, partners and the public on the draft Research Guide.

Floridians Urged to Apply for Disaster Assistance by January 5 Deadline

Floridians Urged to Apply for Disaster Assistance by January 5 Deadline: "ORLANDO, Fla. -- Today is the deadline to apply for federal and state disaster assistance in the wake of Hurricane Wilma, according to the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT). "

Sober Mass-mailing Worm Update Information

Sober Mass-mailing Worm Update Information: "US-CERT is aware of functionality that could allow the latest Sober mass-mailing worm variants known as 'W32/Sober.X', 'W32/Sober.Y', and 'W32/Sober.Z' to automatically update themselves. These Sober worm variants are dual-language (English and German) mass-mailing worms that utilize a built-in SMTP engine to propagate. There have been over 20 Sober worm variants since October 2003. The latest Sober worm variant has been propagating since November 15, 2005 and will attempt to update itself on January 6, 2006"

West Virginia Mine Explosion:Federal Mine Safety Agency Launches Accident Investigation

West Virginia Mine Explosion:Federal Mine Safety Agency Launches Accident Investigation: "Eight-Member Team to Probe Cause of West Virginia Mine Explosion, Handling of Information on Trapped Miners' Condition " -ARLINGTON, Va. The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) today launched its investigation into the underground coal mine explosion that killed 12 miners and seriously injured one additional miner. The blast occurred on Monday, Jan. 2, at the Sago Mine in Upshur County, W.Va. The mine was acquired last year by International Coal Group Inc. "

Rose Bowl Football Game Flight Restrictions

Rose Bowl Football Game Flight Restrictions: "To provide safety and security for participants at the Rose Bowl football game, and various aerial demonstrations, the following TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS will be in effect pursuant to 14 CFR 91.145, Management of Aircraft Operations in the Vicinity of Major Sporting Events and Aerial Demonstrations"

IRS Provides Safe Harbor to Heavy Equipment Dealers For Use of Replacement Cost for Parts

IRS Provides Safe Harbor to Heavy Equipment Dealers For Use of Replacement Cost for Parts: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service today issued guidance that provides heavy equipment dealers with a safe harbor that allows them to approximate the cost of the equipment parts inventory using the replacement cost method of accounting."

Contractors Board Warns California Flood Victims Not To Get Soaked Twice

Contractors Board Warns California Flood Victims Not To Get Soaked Twice: "SACRAMENTO -- The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is warning California flood victims to use caution when hiring a contractor to repair or rebuild their homes and property. The CSLB has found that unscrupulous or unlicensed operators will try to take advantage of homeowners following a disaster. These con artists face can also face felony charges if they operate in a declared disaster area."

Outbreak Notice: Update: Yellow Fever, West Africa

Outbreak Notice: Update: Yellow Fever, West Africa: "According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report dated December 19, the Ministry of Health of Guinea has reported 114 cases of suspected yellow fever, with 26 deaths since the beginning of 2005. Of these cases, 23 have been laboratory confirmed. The most affected region of Guinea is Boke where WHO is assisting the Ministry of Health in investigating the outbreak. "

New AMT Assistant Debuts on IRS

New AMT Assistant Debuts on IRS: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service is providing a new online tool to help individual taxpayers determine whether they are potentially subject to the alternative minimum tax (AMT).
The AMT Assistant helps taxpayers determine whether or not they may be subject to the AMT by automating the AMT Worksheet of the 1040 Instructions, called the "Worksheet to See if You Should Fill in Form 6251 " Line 45." IRS estimates most taxpayers can make entries and get an answer in five to 10 minutes using the new application."

Audit of Medicaid School-Based Services in Texas

Audit of Medicaid School-Based Services in Texas: "The objective of our audit was to determine whether the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (the State agency) claimed Federal reimbursement for school-based health services in accordance with Federal and State requirements. We found that 991 of sampled claims did not comply with Federal and State requirements."

HUD ANNOUNCES HIGHER FHA HOME LOAN LIMITS TO HELP MORE AMERICAN FAMILIES BECOME HOMEOWNERS

HUD ANNOUNCES HIGHER FHA HOME LOAN LIMITS TO HELP MORE AMERICAN FAMILIES BECOME HOMEOWNERS: "Effective January 1, 2006, FHA will insure single-family home mortgages up to $200,160 in standard areas and up to $362,790 in high cost areas. The high cost amount is almost $50,000 more than last year. The loan limits for two-, three- and four-unit dwellings also increased. FHA is sending letters to thousands of mortgage lenders and brokers to make them aware of the higher rates that can help families. "

DHS Introduces Risk-based Formula for Urban Areas Security Initiative Grants

DHS Introduces Risk-based Formula for Urban Areas Security Initiative Grants: "The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today $765 million in direct funding for high threat urban areas as part of the fiscal year 2006 Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI). UASI provides resources for the unique equipment, training, planning, and exercise needs of select high threat urban areas"

HUD ANNOUNCES HIGHER FHA HOME LOAN LIMITS TO HELP MORE AMERICAN FAMILIES BECOME HOMEOWNERS

HUD ANNOUNCES HIGHER FHA HOME LOAN LIMITS TO HELP MORE AMERICAN FAMILIES BECOME HOMEOWNERS: "Effective January 1, 2006, FHA will insure single-family home mortgages up to $200,160 in standard areas and up to $362,790 in high cost areas. The high cost amount is almost $50,000 more than last year. The loan limits for two-, three- and four-unit dwellings also increased. FHA is sending letters to thousands of mortgage lenders and brokers to make them aware of the higher rates that can help families."

Tax Packages for the 2006 Filing Season

Tax Packages for the 2006 Filing Season: "The Internal Revenue Service will send taxpayers almost 17.7 million tax packages and 15.5 million computer filing post cards this year. The tax packages cost nearly $6 million for printing and $5.1 million for postage for an average overall cost of 63 cents per tax package. The 4-page post cards describe the advantages of e-filing and cost about 20 cents each. For all products, the average overall cost is 42 cents per piece. Most people will get their tax packages in early January. The IRS expects to receive about 135 million individual tax returns in 2006"

Oldest Baby Boomers Turn 60!

Oldest Baby Boomers Turn 60!: "In 2006, the oldest of the baby boomers, the generation born between 1946 and 1964, will turn 60 years old. Among the Americans celebrating their 60th will be our two most recent presidents, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Other well-known celebrities reaching this milestone include Cher, Donald Trump, Sylvester Stallone and Dolly Parton."

You Can Lose Weight - Here�s How

You Can Lose Weight - Here's How: "Americans are getting fatter. We're putting on the pounds at an alarmingly rapid rate. And we're sacrificing our health for the sake of super-sized portions, biggie drinks, and two-for-one value meals, obesity researchers say. More than 60 percent of U.S. adults are overweight, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). And about 15 percent of children and adolescents ages 6 to 19 are overweight."

Indian Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program Grant Opportunity: FY 2006

Indian Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program Grant Opportunity: FY 2006: "The purpose of the Indian Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program is to reduce crimes associated with the distribution and use of alcohol and controlled substances in tribal communities. The program seeks to mobilize tribal communities to implement or enhance innovative, collaborative efforts that address public safety issues related to alcohol and substance abuse."

Top 10 Ways Scam Artists Turn Pigeons into Turkeys

Top 10 Ways Scam Artists Turn Pigeons into Turkeys: "The New York State Consumer Protection Board and other consumer protection agencies offer this list of widespread scams and frauds."

Akron, N.Y., Contractor Faces $90,500 in OSHA Fines for Asbestos Hazards

Akron, N.Y., Contractor Faces $90,500 in OSHA Fines for Asbestos Hazards: "BUFFALO, N.Y. -- An Akron, N.Y., heating contractor's alleged failure to protect employees against asbestos hazards has resulted in a total of $90,500 in fines from the U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)."

NEW 39-CENT FIRST-CLASS STAMPS AVAILABLE THURSDAY FOR JANUARY 8 RATE CHANGE

NEW 39-CENT FIRST-CLASS STAMPS AVAILABLE THURSDAY FOR JANUARY 8 RATE CHANGE: "WASHINGTON - Customers have more options than ever to purchase 39-cent First-Class stamps beginning December 8 to use when the new postage rates go into effect Jan. 8, 2006. Plenty of two-cent stamps will be available for customers to use with their 37-cent stamps."

NEW 39-CENT FIRST-CLASS STAMPS AVAILABLE THURSDAY FOR JANUARY 8 RATE CHANGE

NEW 39-CENT FIRST-CLASS STAMPS AVAILABLE THURSDAY FOR JANUARY 8 RATE CHANGE: "WASHINGTON - Customers have more options than ever to purchase 39-cent First-Class stamps beginning December 8 to use when the new postage rates go into effect Jan. 8, 2006. Plenty of two-cent stamps will be available for customers to use with their 37-cent stamps"

SEVEN WAYS TO GET A JUMP START ON YOUR TAXES

SEVEN WAYS TO GET A JUMP START ON YOUR TAXES: "Earlier is better when it comes to working on your taxes. Taxpayers are encouraged to get a head start on tax preparation, especially since early filers avoid the last minute rush and get their refunds sooner. Here are seven easy ways to get a good jump on your taxes long before the April deadline is here"

IRS Simplifies Tax Filing Requirements for Small Employers

IRS Simplifies Tax Filing Requirements for Small Employers: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service today issued temporary and proposed regulations that will significantly reduce tax filing burden for nearly 950,000 small business owners. Beginning January 1, 2006, certain employment tax filers will be able to file the new Form 944 (Employer's Annual Federal Tax Return) once a year rather than filing Form 941 (Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return) four times a year. "

Influenza:What to Do If You Get Sick

Influenza:What to Do If You Get Sick: "Influenza (commonly called the �flu�) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The information below describes common flu symptoms, how to protect yourself and those close to you from getting the flu, and what to do if you get sick with flu-like symptoms."

Online Slide Show: Stretches You Can Do in Your Office

Online Slide Show: Stretches You Can Do in Your Office Do your shoulders get tense when you glance at the stack of work piling up on your desk? Does your back ache if you spend too many hours hunched forward over your keyboard? Take a break at the Mayo Clinic Online Stretch Exercise Slide Show.

IRS Opens 2006 Tax Filing Season

IRS Opens 2006 Tax Filing Season: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service today launched the 2006 filing season with a new look to its popular Web site, improved online tools and enhanced electronic services that will better assist taxpayers and tax preparers. The agency is sending 17.7 million 1040 tax packages this week to taxpayers who have previously filed paper returns. The number of paper tax booklets being mailed to Americans is continuing to decline as more people opt for electronic filing."

Acquiring 'Free' OSHA Publications and Posters

Acquiring 'Free' OSHA Publications and Posters: "Recently, we have been hearing of numerous complaints from employers who have received "official looking" announcements, and in some cases, threatening notices from various companies requiring that employers must purchase OSHA documents from them in order to remain in compliance with OSHA rules and regulations. The most popular document being offered for sale is the OSHA Workplace Poster (also available in Spanish)."

STEEL IMPORTS FOR November 2005 DECREASED 15 PERCENT FROM October 2005

STEEL IMPORTS FOR November 2005 DECREASED 15 PERCENT FROM October 2005: "The preliminary data released today show that overall steel imports in November 2005 decreased 15 percent compared to October 2005. The change in November's total amount of steel imports was due primarily to decreases in blooms, billets, and slabs; hot rolled sheets; and wire rods. November 2005 imports of finished steel products decreased 8 percent compared to October 2005, while imports of semi-finished steel decreased 36 percent"

How to Use Fruits and Vegetables to Help Manage Your Weight

How to Use Fruits and Vegetables to Help Manage Your Weight: "There are many different ways to lose or maintain a healthy weight. Using more fruits and vegetables along with whole grains and lean meats, nuts, and beans is a safe and healthy one. Helping control your weight is not the only benefit of eating more fruits and vegetables. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of some types of cancer and other chronic diseases. Fruits and vegetables also provide essential vitamins and minerals, fiber, and other substances that are important for good health. "

Is losing weight your New Year resolution?...

Is losing weight your New Year resolution?...: "Nutrition for Everyone: Healthy Weight -Understanding the Energy Equation Whether you want to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, it's important to understand the connection between the energy your body takes in (through the foods you eat and the beverages you drink) and the energy your body uses (through the activities you do). To lose weight, you need to use more calories than you take in. To maintain a healthy weight, you need to balance the calories you use with those you take in. No matter which results you want, eating a healthy diet and being physically active can help you reach your goal. "

NOAA WARNS NEW YEAR WILL BRING SERIOUS THREAT OF WILDFIRES

NOAA WARNS NEW YEAR WILL BRING SERIOUS THREAT OF WILDFIRES: " Wildfires will likely continue to char the landscape of the southern Plains into the start of the New Year as NOAA predicts unseasonably warm temperatures, low humidity and increasing winds in combination with drought-stricken land."

Safeguarding Your Retirement Income: Follow Four Simple Rules, Advises I.I.I.

Safeguarding Your Retirement Income: Follow Four Simple Rules, Advises I.I.I.: "NEW YORK, December 30, 2005�Making your New Year's resolutions? Focusing on your retirement income, and what you can do to safeguard it, should be top of your list.
There are four simple steps you can take to ensure your income is secure and sufficient when the time comes, says the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.). These steps apply not only to "defined benefit" plans such as those covering large private and many government employers, but also to 401(k) plans, and should be part of your annual financial review"

Hypertension diagnosis and treatment Updated Guideline

Hypertension Diagnosis and Treatment Updated Guideline: "Hypertension diagnosis and treatment"

FDA Issues Consumer Alert on Contaminated Pet Food

FDA Issues Consumer Alert on Contaminated Pet Food: "The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is conducting an investigation into the deaths and illnesses of dogs that consumed pet food contaminated with a potent toxin called aflatoxin. To date, FDA is aware of 23 dogs that have died and another 18 dogs that have become ill. The pet food is made by Diamond Pet Food at its Gaston, South Carolina facility"

Hate Bias Crime Training Program for Police Officers

Hate Bias Crime Training Program for Police Officers: "The Hate Bias Crime Training Program provides trainers with all the necessary training aides and materials to train police officers how to improve the effectiveness of their agencies in recognizing, reporting, investigating and prosecuting hate crimes."

One in Three Adult Drivers Drinking, Using Drugs

One in Three Adult Drivers Drinking, Using Drugs: "About one in three adult drivers age 21 to 25 drove under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the past year, according to a report recently released by SAMHSA. These data also show that 16.6 percent of adult drivers age 21 or older (30.7 million persons) reported driving while under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs during the past year."