2005 Fraud Trends: Consumers Being Hounded by Internet and Telemarketing Scams

2005 Fraud Trends: Consumers Being Hounded by Internet and Telemarketing Scams: "WASHINGTON, D.C.-Today the National Consumers League (NCL) released its annual lists of the top telemarketing and Internet scams that plagued consumers in 2005. More consumers are reporting scams, and victims are losing more money, according to the nonprofit organization, which is headquartered in Washington, DC. Based on information that consumers provided last year to NCL's National Fraud Information Center/Internet Fraud Watch program, the average loss to telemarketing fraud rose from $1,974 in 2004 to $2,892 in 2005, and Internet fraud losses more than doubled, from an average of $895 in 2004 to $1,917. The number of scams reported rose by 39 percent for telemarketing fraud and 12 percent for Internet fraud."

How to spot 10 Common Spam Scams

How to spot 10 Common Spam Scams: "While some consumers find unsolicited commercial email - also known as �spam� � informative, others find it annoying and time consuming. Still others find it expensive: They're among the people who have lost money to spam that contained bogus offers and fraudulent promotions"

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), Turkey's national influenza center has confirmed additional human cases of avian influenza A (H5N1) in 3 children from the province of Agri in Turkey. Two of the children are siblings, and both had exposure to diseased birds. One of the ill siblings has died. Outbreaks of H5N1 in poultry have been reported in Agri Province since December 2005."

2006 National Book Festival to Be Held Sept. 30

2006 National Book Festival to Be Held Sept. 30: "The 2006 National Book Festival, organized and sponsored by the Library of Congress and hosted by first lady Laura Bush, will be held on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2006, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., between 7th and 14th streets from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (rain or shine). The festival is free and open to the public."

U.S. Women Earn An Average Of $588 Per Week

U.S. Women Earn An Average Of $588 Per Week: "Women who usually worked full time had median earnings
of $588 per week, or 80.4 percent of the $731 median for
men. The female-to-male earnings ratios were higher among
blacks (87.4 percent) and Hispanics or Latinos (86.3
percent) than among whites (79.8 percent) or Asians (76.7
percent). "

Three wild poliovirus cases identified in East Harerghe Zone in Ethiopia

Three wild poliovirus cases identified in East Harerghe Zone in Ethiopia: "Additional rounds of polio vaccination campaigns will be necessary after the recent identification of three children who were found to be infected with wild poliovirus in East Harerghe Zone of Oromia Region. Symptom onset ranged between 12 October and 6 December 2005"

Disaster Preparedness Outreach Comes to South Florida Fairgrounds

Disaster Preparedness Outreach Comes to South Florida Fairgrounds: "ORLANDO , Fla. -- Hazard Mitigation Advisors will be on hand during the South Florida Fair to assist residents affected by Hurricane Wilma in developing hazard preparedness plans for their homes and/or small businesses, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Florida State Emergency Response Team (SERT). "

NOAA PLANS SHIFT IN GEOSTATIONARY SATELLITE ORBIT TO IMPROVE WEATHER FORECAST COVERAGE OVER SOUTH AMERICA

NOAA PLANS SHIFT IN GEOSTATIONARY SATELLITE ORBIT TO IMPROVE WEATHER FORECAST COVERAGE OVER SOUTH AMERICA: "In Buenos Aires on Tuesday, NOAA, the Comision Nacional de Activades Espaciales, and the World Meteorological Organization announced news of the repositioning of GOES-10. Shifting the spacecraft from its current position above the equator in the West to a new spot in orbit will greatly improve environmental satellite coverage of the Western Hemisphere, especially over South America. "

California Releases Draft Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Plan For Public Comment

California Releases Draft Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Plan For Public Comment: "Emphasizing that preparedness is the key to saving lives, California Department of Health Services (CDHS) Director Sandra Shewry today released for public comment a draft revision of CDHS' Pandemic Influenza Preparedness and Response Plan."

Counties with Fastest Growth in Employment

Counties with Fastest Growth in Employment: "In June 2005, Pasco County, Florida, which is north of Tampa, had the biggest over-the-year percentage increase in employment among the largest counties in the U.S. "

More than Losing Weight

More than Losing Weight: "There is more to exercise than getting slim. Researcher Brian Duscha of Duke University Medical Center found this in a look at more than 130 overweight men and women."

QUICK AND EASY ACCESS TO IRS FORMS AND PUBLICATIONS

QUICK AND EASY ACCESS TO IRS FORMS AND PUBLICATIONS: "The Internal Revenue Service has many forms and free publications on a wide variety of topics to help you understand and meet tax filing requirements. If you need IRS materials try one of these easy options"

Afghanistan Travel Warning for American Citizens

Afghanistan Travel Warning for American Citizens: "This Travel Warning provides updated information on the security situation in Afghanistan. The security threat to all American citizens in Afghanistan remains critical. This Travel Warning supersedes the Travel Warning for Afghanistan issued June 09, 2005. "

Schwarzenegger Calls for Freeze in Student Fee Increases

Schwarzenegger Calls for Freeze in Student Fee Increases: "Governor Schwarzenegger's January Budget proposal eliminates the 8 percent fee increase on UC and CSU students scheduled to take effect this year in the fall. "

Taxpayer Alert: Certain Tax Returns Go to Different Centers than Last Year

Taxpayer Alert: Certain Tax Returns Go to Different Centers than Last Year: "WASHINGTON - As taxpayers begin to prepare their tax returns, the Internal Revenue Service notes that some may be sending their returns to a different service center than last year. Those who received a tax instruction booklet from the IRS in the mail and use the labels included with the booklet can be assured that their tax returns will go to the correct address. Taxpayers who e-file are not affected by these changes."

New Requirements for Travelers Entering the U.S.

New Requirements for Travelers Entering the U.S.: "The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 requires that by January 1, 2008, travelers to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada have a passport or other secure, accepted document to enter or re-enter the United States."

FDA Announces New Prescription Drug Information Format to Improve Patient Safety

FDA Announces New Prescription Drug Information Format to Improve Patient Safety: "The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today unveiled a major revision to the format of prescription drug information, commonly called the package insert, to give healthcare professionals clear and concise prescribing information."

Credit Reporting Agency Settles FTC Charges

Credit Reporting Agency Settles FTC Charges: "Consumer reporting agency Far West Credit, Inc. will pay $120,000 to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it did not follow reasonable procedures to assure the accuracy of the information in the consumer reports it sold to mortgage companies, in violation of federal law."

Cranberry Juice for Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections

Cranberry Juice for Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections: "The purpose of this study is to determine whether daily consumption of cranberry juice lessens the symptoms and prevents the recurrence of urinary tract infections (UTIs). This study will also determine whether drinking cranberry juice for 6 months selects for less virulent bacteria in the rectal, vaginal, and urethral areas"

New Identity Theft Quiz Helps Teach Users to Be On Guard Online

New Identity Theft Quiz Helps Teach Users to Be On Guard Online: "The quiz is one of several offered by OnGuard Online, a new multimedia, interactive consumer education campaign launched by the FTC and a partnership of other federal agencies and the technology industry. "

Group Counseling for Smoking Cessation

Group Counseling for Smoking Cessation: "The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of group therapy for cigarette smoking cessation. The group meets for 8 sessions and includes education and group discussion about the effects of smoking and ways to cope with withdrawal symptoms and other challenges to maintaining abstinence. In one condition, the groups also learn techniques based on cognitive therapy, to help cope with negative feelings. "

Ape Escape®3 for PlayStation®2 and Ape Escape Academy for PSP� EXPANDS WITH NEW INSTALLMENTS

Ape Escape®3 for PlayStation®2 and Ape Escape Academy for PSP™ Released Today: "Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. today announced the release of Ape Escape® 3 designed exclusively for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and Ape Escape® Academy for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system . Created by Sony Computer Entertainment Inc., these new additions expand the well-known "

Watch a live broadcast of prostate cancer surgery on January 19, 2006

Watch a live broadcast of prostate cancer surgery on January 19, 2006: "Two forms of high technology will join together this January to allow the public and physicians to view a less invasive surgery for prostate cancer from the comfort of their home or office"

Suicide: Helping Patients and Their Families After an Attempt

Suicide: Helping Patients and Their Families After an Attempt: "The purpose of this brochure is to provide healthcare professionals with some quick tips to enhance care in the emergency department (ED) for people who have attempted suicide, while also providing information on the Health Insurance Portable and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), patient discharge, and resources about suicide for medical professionals, patients and their families. This brochure can also be distributed to patients."

Northridge Earthquake Anniversary Marks Opportune Time to Prepare for Next Inevitable Disaster

Northridge Earthquake Anniversary Marks Opportune Time to Prepare for Next Inevitable Disaster: "LOS ANGELES - Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi on Monday urged Californians to prepare for future emergencies, noting that the devastating Northridge earthquake, which struck twelve years ago tomorrow, left many unprepared residents in financial ruin. "

FEMA Provides Classrooms For Displaced Students

FEMA Provides Classrooms For Displaced Students: "The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working to help Louisiana school districts meet additional demand created by displaced and relocated students. FEMA, in conjunction with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), has provided dozens of temporary buildings to schools throughout the state. "

E-Passport Testing to Begin at San Francisco International Airport

E-Passport Testing to Begin at San Francisco International Airport: "WASHINGTON, D.C. - A live test of e-Passports, that contain contactless chips with biographic and biometric information and the readers that are capable of reading these e-Passports, begins January 15, 2006 at Terminal G at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). This test is a collaborative effort between the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore that will run through April 15, 2006"

Online Consultations in Psychiatry Through Videoconference

Online Consultations in Psychiatry Through Videoconference -This study will provide online consultations through videoconference in the field of psychiatry. The method provided will offer general practitioners the option of providing online videoconferencing to reduce costs of medical treatment and improve service.

Acupuncture for Non-Cyclical Breast Pain

Acupuncture for Non-Cyclical Breast Pain: "Breast pain or mastalgia is a common and troublesome symptom for many women. Whereas cyclical breast pain related to hormonal fluctuations can frequently be treated, non-cyclical breast pain can go untreated due to its various etiologies and non-specific presentation."

Asian Ginseng: Its Uses, Side Effects and Sources

Asian Ginseng: Its Uses, Side Effects and Sources: "This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb Asian ginseng--common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Asian ginseng is native to China and Korea and has been used in various systems of medicine for many centuries."

Study of Paxil Use in Menopausal Women

Study of Paxil Use in Menopausal Women: "To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of Paroxetine treatment in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women who present with menopause-related symptoms after discontinuing hormone therapy (HT), in the presence or absence of concomitant symptoms of depression or anxiety. "

Overweight? Underweight? Or Just Right � Determine Your Body Mass Online

Overweight? Underweight? Or Just Right - Determine Your Body Mass Online: "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). "

Nonfatal, Unintentional Medication Exposures Among Young Children

Nonfatal, Unintentional Medication Exposures Among Young Children: "Young children are vulnerable to inadvertent exposure to prescription and over-the-counter medications, especially when these items are not stored securely. The findings in this report indicate that an estimated 53,517 U.S. children aged <4 years were treated annually in hospital emergency departments for unintentional medication exposures "

Update: Human Infection with Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus in Asia

Update: Human Infection with Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus in Asia: "Avian influenza A (H5N1) viruses usually affect wild birds but now are infecting and causing serious disease among poultry, such as chickens, in Asia and parts of Europe. Human infections with H5N1 viruses are rare, but have occurred during 2003-2006 in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam, with many cases resulting in death"

Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi Announces 7 Arrests in Department�s Efforts to Combat Workers� Compensation Fraud

Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi Announces 7 Arrests in Department�s Efforts to Combat Workers' Compensation Fraud: "SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY - Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi announced Friday the arrests of seven suspects in the San Joaquin Valley region for workers' compensation fraud that costs insurers $900,000, and duped the state out of some $676,000 in payroll taxes. "

Fewer Deaths than 2004, but Earthquakes Still Kill Nearly 90,000 in 2005

Fewer Deaths than 2004, but Earthquakes Still Kill Nearly 90,000 in 2005: "Although there were fewer deaths worldwide in 2005 due to earthquakes, more than 89,353 casualties were reported, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and confirmed by the United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). Nearly all of the fatalities for the year, more than 87,000, occurred when a magnitude 7.6 hit Pakistan on Oct. 8"

NAMM WORKS WITH U.S. PATENT OFFICE TO PROTECT MEMBERS' INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

NAMM WORKS WITH U.S. PATENT OFFICE TO PROTECT MEMBERS' INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS: " NAMM, the International Music Products Association, is working with United States Patent and Trademark Office to protect the intellectual property rights of its Members by providing valuable information at this year's NAMM Show. "

U.S. Avian Influenza Team to Turkey

U.S. Avian Influenza Team to Turkey: "As a friend and partner of Turkey, the United States would like to offer support to Turkey as they deal with the reported cases of avian flu. To this end, the United States is sending a team of influenza experts to Turkey to assess the avian flu situation there, see what lessons have been learned, and make recommendations on what the United States can do to support efforts in Turkey to deal with and prepare for avian flu. "

OSHA Reminds Employers to Post Injury/Illness Summaries Beginning February 1

OSHA Reminds Employers to Post Injury/Illness Summaries Beginning February 1: "WASHINGTON -- Beginning February 1, employers must post a summary of the total number of job-related injuries and illnesses that occurred last year, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced today. Employers are only required to post the Summary (OSHA Form 300A) -- not the OSHA 300 Log -- from Feb.1 to Apr. 30, 2006."

IRS and Treasury Provide Guidance to Hybrid Manufacturers

IRS and Treasury Provide Guidance to Hybrid Manufacturers: "Washington - Today the IRS and Treasury have provided guidance on a process that manufacturers can use to certify the amount of credit the purchaser of a hybrid or lean burn vehicle can claim. Taxpayers who are purchasing these vehicles will be able to rely on the manufacturer's certification when they claim the credit on their tax return."

FDA Warns Consumers about Brazilian Diet Pills Found to Contain Active Drug Ingredients

FDA Warns Consumers about Brazilian Diet Pills Found to Contain Active Drug Ingredients: "The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers not to use two unapproved drug products that are being marketed as dietary supplements for weight loss. Emagrece Sim Dietary Supplement, also known as the Brazilian Diet Pill and Herbathin Dietary Supplement may contain several active ingredients, including controlled substances, found in prescription drugs that could lead to serious side effects or injury."

HOW MUCH CAR CAN YOU AFFORD?

HOW MUCH CAR CAN YOU AFFORD?: "The average price for a new car is $20,000 and $9,500 for a used car. If you're in the market for a car, how much can you afford to spend?"

FIGHTING CRIME IN CYBERSPACE

FIGHTING CRIME IN CYBERSPACE: "Police patrol the community to keep you and your possessions secure from burglars who prowl the neighborhood. But what does it take to keep your identity safe from thieves who cruise the information highway?"

FCC Fact Sheet: Calls Made From Payphones

FCC Fact Sheet: Calls Made From Payphones: "With the widespread use and availability of wireless phones, the use of payphones has diminished. In 1996, in order to encourage competition and the availability of payphones, Congress required that payphones no longer be regulated. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) determined that deregulating local payphone rates and allowing the marketplace to set the price of local payphone calls was an essential step to achieving the goals set by Congress."

National Hospital Available Beds for Emergencies and Disasters (HAvBED) System

National Hospital Available Beds for Emergencies and Disasters (HAvBED) System: "The National Hospital Available Beds for Emergencies and Disasters (HAvBED) System explores the feasibility of a national real-time hospital-bed tracking system to address a surge of patients during a mass casualty event. This demonstration model is funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)."

California Workers� Comp Insurers Show 37.7% Decrease in Rates Since Reforms Took Effect in 2004

California Workers' Comp Insurers Show 37.7% Decrease in Rates Since Reforms Took Effect in 2004: "Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi announced Thursday that insurers, since the workers' compensation system reforms went into effect in January 2004, have decreased the rates they file with the Department of Insurance by a cumulative 37.7%. "

Problem Gambling Prevention Technical Assistance And Training Rfp Contract Announcement

Problem Gambling Prevention Technical Assistance And Training Rfp Contract Announcement: "This Request for Proposals (RFP) is intended to provide Problem Gambling Prevention Technical Assistance (TA) and Training to serve problem gambling and related prevention organizations and practitioners throughout California."

1040 CENTRAL � ONE CLICK AWAY

1040 CENTRAL � ONE CLICK AWAY: "Don't wait in line, go on-line. The IRS Web site is home to a great resource for answers to tax questions that arise during the filing season. Access 1040 Central at IRS.gov under the "Individuals" tab and discover user-friendly tools that will make completing your 2005 tax return quick and easy."

IRS Revises Schedule K-1 for Trusts

IRS Revises Schedule K-1 for Trusts: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service today announced the availability of the revised Form 1041 Schedule K-1 for this year's filing season. The schedule has been simplified to reduce common errors and the burden associated with preparation and filing requirements. "

IRS AND TELEMUNDO HOST TAX INFORMATION PROGRAM FOR SPANISH-SPEAKING TAXPAYERS

IRS AND TELEMUNDO HOST TAX INFORMATION PROGRAM FOR SPANISH-SPEAKING TAXPAYERS: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service is joining national television network Telemundo in a special one-hour tax program for Spanish-speaking taxpayers on Sunday, Jan. 15. The program, "Los Impuestos y Usted" ("Taxes and You"), will air at 3:30 p.m. Eastern and Pacific Time, and at 2:30 p.m. Central and Mountain Time"

FDA Requests Seizure of More Dietary Supplements Containing Ephedrine Alkaloids

FDA Requests Seizure of More Dietary Supplements Containing Ephedrine Alkaloids: "At the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania filed a Complaint for Forfeiture against Lipodrene, a dietary supplement that contains ephedrine alkaloids. The U.S. Marshals, today, seized the dietary supplement Lipodrene located at ATF Fitness Products, Inc., in Oakmont, PA"

Pre-Order Your Free Copy of the 2006 Consumer Action Handbook Today!

Pre-Order Your Free Copy of the 2006 Consumer Action Handbook Today!: "Sign up today to receive the first available copies of the 2006 Consumer Action Handbook. This everyday guide to being a smart shopper is chocked full of helpful tips about buying a car or home, preventing identity theft, understanding credit, resolving problems after a purchase, and much more."

IRS e-file Marks its 20th Year; Electronic IRS Makes Debut

IRS e-file Marks its 20th Year; Electronic IRS Makes Debut: "To mark this milestone of IRS e-file, the IRS today also is launching the Electronic IRS, a centralized source for all IRS electronic options. Taxpayers and tax preparers who click on the Electronic IRS logo, located at IRS.gov, will be taken to a page that contains an overview of all the electronic tasks that can be accomplished online."

NOAA PREDICTS WEAK LA NI�A

NOAA PREDICTS WEAK LA NINA: "Jan. 12, 2006 - Weak La Nina conditions are predicted in the tropical Pacific just in time for spring, but NOAA scientists stress it is too early to know how this could affect springtime and summertime weather patterns in the United States. La Nina is the periodic cooling of ocean waters in the east-central equatorial Pacific, which impacts the typical alignment of weather patterns."

USGS Announces that Augustine Volcano in Alaska Erupted Today

USGS Announces that Augustine Volcano in Alaska Erupted Today: "Anchorage, AK - The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is currently monitoring the eruption of Augustine Volcano in Alaska that began today at approximately 4:44 a.m. Alaska Standard Time (9:44 a.m. EST) with two explosions at the summit of the volcano. The alert level is classified at red, the highest level of concern. The volcano is located in Cook Inlet, about 180 miles southwest of Anchorage"

Biometric Entry System Installed at Final U.S. Land Border Ports

Biometric Entry System Installed at Final U.S. Land Border Ports: "The program compares biometric data such as digital and inkless fingerscans and digital photos, as well as biographical information collected by the Department of State, against U.S. terrorist and criminal watch lists to identify and intercept criminals and violators who try to enter the United States."

California Follows IRS Tax Shelter Initiative

California Follows IRS Tax Shelter Initiative: "The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) today issued FTB Notice 2006-1, announcing that it will follow the IRS tax shelter settlement initiative as outlined in IRS Announcement 2005-80, effectively creating the California Tax Shelter Resolution Initiative to run alongside the federal initiative. "

Cal/EPA Provides Grants to Communities for Environmental Justice Projects

Cal/EPA Provides Grants to Communities for Environmental Justice Projects: "California Environmental Protection Agency (Cal/EPA) Secretary Alan C. Lloyd today announced the selection of 17 organizations for EJ grant funding. The Cal/EPA EJ Small Grants Program provides $280,000 to eligible community-based non-profit groups, including seven tribal governments, to support environmental justice related projects in California. "

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."