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

Update: Human Infection with Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus: "Avian influenza A (H5N1) viruses usually affect wild birds but have infected and caused serious disease among poultry, such as chickens. Human infections with H5N1 viruses are rare, but have also occurred in several countries since 2003. For a current list of countries reporting outbreaks of H5N1 infection among poultry and other birds and a list of countries reporting laboratory-confirmed human infections with H5N1 viruses, see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website,"

New Light Truck Economy Standards to Save 10.7 Billion Gallons of Fuel, Include Largest SUVs for First Time

New Light Truck Economy Standards to Save 10.7 Billion Gallons of Fuel, Include Largest SUVs for First Time: "New fuel economy standards for light trucks will save 10.7 billions of gallons of fuel and include, for the first time ever, the largest sport utility vehicles, Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta announced today in Baltimore, MD. "

Facts About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Facts About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): "Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. It includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and in some cases asthma"

Ethiopia "at Crossroads," Warns U.S. Official

Ethiopia "at Crossroads," Warns U.S. Official: "Ethiopia is 'currently at a crossroads' -- it can continue to move forward or it can lapse into the sort of government that is best encountered in the history books, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Donald Yamamoto told the U.S. Congress March 28."

USGS New Book on Wildlife-Human Disease Connection

USGS New Book on Wildlife-Human Disease Connection: "A new 400-page publication from the USGS National Wildlife Health Center that addresses current issues related to disease emergence and resurgence is now available. This publication, Disease Emergence and Resurgence: The Wildlife-Human Connection, focuses on concepts associated with disease emergence in wildlife, the general importance of wildlife as sentinels for disease emergence, and critical issues regarding wildlife as sources for zoonotic disease (diseases transmissible between humans and animals)."

Acts of Terrorism Insurance Coverage Available

Acts of Terrorism Insurance Coverage Available: "Now At No Additional Cost, Acts of Terrorism Coverage Automatically Included for All International Travelers"

FDA Approves a Second Drug for the Prevention of Influenza A and B in Adults and Children

FDA Approves a Second Drug for the Prevention of Influenza A and B in Adults and Children The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today approved the use of Relenza (zanamivir for inhalation) for prevention (prophylaxis) of influenza (flu) in adults and children 5 years of age and older. Relenza, an antiviral medication, was previously approved for the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections in adults and children. Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) previously was approved for both prevention and treatment of flu; today's approval of Relenza for prevention provides Americans with another option for the prevention of influenza A and B infections.

You Can Still Make a 2005 IRA Contribution

You Can Still Make a 2005 IRA Contribution If you haven’t contributed funds to an Individual Retirement Arrangement for tax year 2005, or if you’ve put in less than the maximum allowed, you still have time to do so. You can contribute to either a traditional or Roth IRA until the April due date for filing your tax return for 2005, not including extensions.Mar 29, 2006, 09:12

Acupuncture for Hot Flushes in Menopause

Acupuncture for Hot Flushes in Menopause: "This study will investigate whether Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture-care decreases the frequency of hot flushes and increases health related quality of life among postmenopausal women. "

Unemployment rate 32.9 percent among recent dropouts

Unemployment rate 32.9 percent among recent dropouts: "Between October 2004 and October 2005, about 400,000 young people dropped out of high school.The unemployment rate for these high school dropouts was 32.9 percent in October 2005, while the unemployment rate of 2005 high school graduates who had not enrolled in college was 20.6 percent. "

Colorectal Cancer Fact Sheet

Colorectal Cancer Fact Sheet: "Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon and/or rectum. In 2006, 148,610 people are estimated to be diagnosed with the disease, and men and women are diagnosed in nearly equal numbers. Of those diagnosed, 55,170 are estimated to die from colorectal cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. However, it is one of the most preventable cancers, because it can develop from polyps that can be removed before they become cancerous."

Allergy Alert: Easter Egg Candy Recall Alert

Allergy Alert: Easter Egg Candy Recall Alert: "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Columbus, OH -- March 28, 2006 -- Anthony-Thomas Candy Company, Columbus, OH is recalling 6 oz and 12 oz packages of Filled Easter Eggs because they may contain undeclared egg whites, yellow #5 and yellow #6. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. No illnesses have been reported to date."

Education Initiative on Substance Abuse Coming to Memphis

Education Initiative on Substance Abuse Coming to Memphis: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will come to Memphis on April 5 to inform physicians and the public about buprenorphine, a new office-based medical treatment for addiction to prescription pain relievers and other opiate drugs, such as heroin. The forum will offer information about the science of buprenorphine and the federal requirements for establishing this new office-based treatment."

Health and Safety Guide for Gardeners

Health and Safety Guide for Gardeners: "Spring is here and summer is not far away! In March and April, gardeners prepare for the main growing seasons and the beauty and bounty that they bring. Gardening can be a great way to get physical activity, beautify the community, and grow nutritious fruits and vegetables."

Attorney General Lockyer Announces $14 Million National Settlement with GlaxoSmithKline to Resolve Patent Fraud, Antitrust Allegations

Attorney General Lockyer Announces $14 Million National Settlement with GlaxoSmithKline to Resolve Patent Fraud, Antitrust Allegations: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) will pay $14 million to resolve allegations that state-government programs paid inflated prices for the firm�s anti-depressant drug Paxil because GSK engaged in patent fraud, antitrust violations and frivolous litigation to maintain a monopoly and block generic versions from entering the market."

Change to Federal Reserve Discount Rate Effective March 28

Change to Federal Reserve Discount Rate Effective March 28: "Discount Rate' on Advances to Member Banks under Sections 13 and 13a of the Federal Reserve Act in Effect at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco"

Have Insurance? Apply Anyway

Have Insurance? Apply Anyway: "COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Individuals who suffered damages from the recent tornadoes and storms between March 11 and 13 may be eligible for disaster assistance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State of Missouri even if they are insured."

Webcast: Make the Most of Your Tax Return the Second in the 2006 Series of Wise Up Teleconference Calls

Webcast: Make the Most of Your Tax Return the Second in the 2006 Series of Wise Up Teleconference Calls: "Do you understand tax terminology and basic tax code principles? How do you determine the amount of allowances to claim on your W-4? Which tax form should you use when filing? What are the tax implications of investing, buying and selling a home, getting married, and having children? Do you qualify for the earned income tax credit, the child tax credit, the child and dependent care credit, or the retirement saver's credit? "

Daylight Time Begins April 2 - Don't Forget to Set Your Clocks

Daylight Time Begins April 2 - Don't Forget to Set Your Clocks: "Currently, daylight time begins in the United States on the first Sunday in April and ends on the last Sunday in October. On the first Sunday in April, clocks are set ahead one hour at 2:00 a.m. local standard time, which becomes 3:00 a.m. local daylight time. On the last Sunday in October, clocks are set back one hour at 2:00 a.m. local daylight time, which becomes 1:00 a.m. local standard time. These dates were recently modified with the passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, Pub. L. no. 109-58, 119 Stat 594 (2005). Starting in March 2007, daylight time in the United States will begin on the second Sunday in March and end on the first Sunday in November. "

HPV and Men - CDC's New Fact Sheet

HPV and Men - CDC's New Fact Sheet: "Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus. There are more than 30 types of genital HPV that can infect the genital area of men."

1200 Town Hall Meetings To Confront Underage Drinking as National Problem

1200 Town Hall Meetings To Confront Underage Drinking as National Problem: "Nearly 1,200 town hall meetings are being convened today around the nation as part of a campaign to prevent underage drinking. The town hall meetings are spearheaded by a Federal Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Prevention of Underage Drinking, chaired by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in partnership with state and local agencies and organizations. Meetings are being held in all 50 states, four territories, and the District of Columbia."

When You Swim During Spring Break, Swim Healthy

When You Swim During Spring Break, Swim Healthy Protect yourself from getting a swimming-related illness during spring break...

When You Swim During Spring Break, Swim Healthy

When You Swim During Spring Break, Swim Healthy Protect yourself from getting a swimming-related illness during spring break...

2006 National Health Promotion Conference

2006 National Health Promotion Conference: "The 2006 National Health Promotion Conference is the first joint conference presented by CDC's Coordinating Center for Health Promotion (CoCHP) and its constituent groups: the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP), the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD), and the Office of Genomics and Disease Prevention (OGDP). With a conference theme of Innovations in Health Promotion: New Avenues for Collaboration, the conference will provide an unprecedented opportunity to create new partnerships and strengthen existing ones to move forward with a national health promotion agenda."

Injured on the job? Attend the State of California DWC Free Workshop

Injured on the job? Attend the State of California DWC Free Workshop: "At these free, one-hour workshops you will learn about: Your right to medical treatment , disability payments
returning to work after your injury , and Resolving a disagreement over your claim. The workshops consist of a presentation followed by a question and answer session. Workshops are set up for injured workers that have recently filed a workers' compensation claim with their employer, but any injured worker can benefit from attending, and anyone can attend. "

IRS Establishes e-Mail Box for Taxpayers to Report Phony e-Mails

IRS Establishes e-Mail Box for Taxpayers to Report Phony e-Mails: "The Internal Revenue Service announced today that it has established an electronic mailbox for taxpayers to send information about suspicious e-mails they receive which claim to come from the IRS. The IRS's new mail box allows taxpayers to send copies of possibly fraudulent e-mails involving misuse of the IRS name and logo to the IRS for investigation"

France and Monaco Public Announcement : Travel Alert for U.S. Citizens

France and Monaco Public Announcement : Travel Alert for U.S. Citizens: "This Public Announcement is issued to alert Americans to ongoing security concerns in France. Demonstrations, sometimes involving violence, have occurred and continue to occur in Paris and other large cities in France in opposition to a new law concerning employment contracts for young workers. This Public Announcement will expire on April 30, 2006. "

Small Business Week 2006 - Celebrating Small Businesses

Small Business Week 2006 - Celebrating Small Businesses: "Small businesses are, in many ways, the backbone of our nation's economy. During Small Business Week, this sector of business owners and workers is recognized. As President Bush stated this year in his Small Business Week proclamation, "The entrepreneurial spirit of America is robust and strong, and small businesses are thriving throughout our great nation. The opportunity to own a business is an important part of the American dream. During Small Business Week, we celebrate small business owners and employees who are willing to take risks and work hard in pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families. "

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Effective Health Care Report

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Effective Health Care Report: "Drugs can be as effective as stomach surgery for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD. This finding is from the first report of a new program from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, or 'ark,' that compares alternative treatments for health conditions. "

U.S. Travel Advisory Regarding German Passports

U.S. Travel Advisory Regarding German Passports: "Beginning May 1, 2006, German temporary passports (or emergency passports) will no longer be valid for travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Regular, official and diplomatic German passports (with a digital photo if issued after October 26, 2005) remain valid for Visa Waiver Program travel, per the current VWP passport requirements. "

California Warns Consumers Not To Eat Some Shellfish And Viscera Of Sardines, Anchovies And Crab From Southern California Coast

California Warns Consumers Not To Eat Some Shellfish And Viscera Of Sardines, Anchovies And Crab From Southern California Coast: "SACRAMENTO - Consumers should not eat sport-harvested species of bivalve (two-shelled) shellfish, sardines and anchovies, or the organs, or viscera, of sport-harvested or commercially sold lobster or crab taken from the coast of San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties because they may be contaminated with domoic acid, a naturally occurring toxin that can cause human illness, State Public Health Officer Dr. Mark Horton warned today. Dogs, cats, birds and other household pets are also susceptible to domoic acid poisoning and should not be fed these products."

How to Use Fruits and Vegetables to Help Manage Your Weight

How to Use Fruits and Vegetables to Help Manage Your Weight: "Fruits and vegetables are part of a well-balanced and healthy eating plan. 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. "

Navigating the Teen Years: A Parent's Handbook for Raising Healthy Teens

Navigating the Teen Years: A Parent's Handbook for Raising Healthy Teens: "Navigating the teen years can be formidable. But research shows that kids who learn from their parents about the dangers of underage drinking, illicit drugs, tobacco use, dangerous driving and other risky behaviors are less likely to engage in them."

Celebrating Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month:May 2006

Celebrating Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month:May 2006: "The estimated number of U.S. residents in July 2004 who said they were Asian or Asian in combination with one or more other races. This group comprised 5 percent of the total population. California had both the largest population (4.8 million) and the largest numerical increase (123,000) of people of this group since July 2003; Hawaii is the state where Asians made up the highest proportion of the total population (58 percent). "

Problem Gambling Prevention Media Buy Contract Opportunity

Problem Gambling Prevention Media Buy Contract Opportunity: "The Office of Problem Gambling (OPG) in the Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs (ADP) is soliciting competitive proposals from bidders who possess strong skills, knowledge and abilities to provide strategic radio and outdoor planning and buying media services required for the Problem Gambling Prevention Program. The selected Contractor will develop and implement a media plan, including ethnic media, utilizing previously-produced radio spots and outdoor display to address a targeted portion of the public."

Securities Class Action Monitoring Service Contract Opportunity

Securities Class Action Monitoring Service Contract Opportunity: "Contractor will perform the tasks described below to assist CalPERS staff deciding whether to recommend to the CalPERS Investment Committee that CalPERS actively participate in a particular securities class action."

Be Suspicious About Wiring Money Back After Cashing a Check

Be Suspicious About Wiring Money Back After Cashing a Check: "The set-up for the scam can be different every time: maybe they are buying something you advertised, paying you to do work at home, or giving you an advance on a sweepstakes. But, the Federal Trade Commission and the National Consumers League warn that after the initial hook, all check overpayment scams end the same way - with a request for you to wire money back. The scams are the fifth most common telemarketing fraud and the fourth most common Internet scam reported to the NCL"

Curtain Falls on Two Bogus �Biz Opp� Actors -�Surplus Goods� Scam Cost Consumers Almost $31 Million

Curtain Falls on Two Bogus "Biz Opp" Actors -Surplus Goods Scam Cost Consumers Almost $31 Million: "Two persons have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges for their roles in a fraudulent business opportunity scheme targeted in early 2005 as part of Project Biz Opp Flop, a crackdown on violations of the FTC's Franchise Rule, which requires that prospective franchisees must be given a full disclosure document about business opportunities they are offered, and Section 5(a) of the FTC Act, which prohibits unfair and deceptive acts or practices affecting commerce."

American Diabetes Alert

American Diabetes Alert: "The American Diabetes Alert is an annual, one-day call-to-action held on the fourth Tuesday of March for people to find out if they are at risk for diabetes. The Alert's goal is to raise the awareness that diabetes is serious, you can have diabetes and not even know it, and that taking the Risk Test is an easy way to find out if you are at risk for "

What I need to know about Prostate Problems

What I need to know about Prostate Problems: "The prostate* is part of a man's sex organs. It's about the size of a walnut and surrounds the tube called the urethra, located just below the bladder. "

Effects of Leptin Treatment on Weight Loss

Effects of Leptin Treatment on Weight Loss: "Leptin is a hormone that is produced by the fat tissue and acts on the brain. Leptin plays a key role in regulating energy balance and body weight in animals and in humans. When a person loses weight leptin concentration in the blood is reduced. Reduction in blood leptin levels has been found to be related to a decreased metabolic rate (the rate in which the body burns its calories), an increased appetite, and to many other physiological and hormonal changes that may lead to failure in dieting. "

Plant-Based Diet May Help Control Weight

Plant-Based Diet May Help Control Weight: "Consuming more plant foods and fewer animal products may help individuals control their weight, according to a new study funded in part by ARS. The researchers examined the health records of more than 55,000 healthy women participating in the Swedish Mammography Cohort. They looked at the body mass index (BMI) of semi-vegetarians (who eat some meat, dairy, and eggs), lacto-vegetarians (who consume milk but not meat or eggs), vegans (who consume no animal products), and omnivores (who eat all foods). "

Low Carbohydrate Portfolio or �Eco-Atkins� Diet

Low Carbohydrate Portfolio or Eco-Atkins Diet: "Exchange of the butter, eggs, cheese and meat in the Atkins diet for soy protein foods, other vegetable proteins including gluten and vegetable fats, nuts, avocado, olive and canola oil will result in dramatic rather than modest reductions in blood lipids with weight loss. In effect this will represent an exchange of saturated fat and animal protein for healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and vegetable proteins with significant effects on blood lipids while still encouraging weight loss."

Three Arrested on Failure to Pay State Income Tax Charges

Three Arrested on Failure to Pay State Income Tax Charges: "Two Santa Cruz County residents and one Santa Clara County resident await arraignment following their arrest on felony and misdemeanor charges of state income evasion, according to the Franchise Tax Board (FTB)."

Veggies Help Fight Stress

Veggies Help Fight Stress: "Eating vegetables on a regular basis for two weeks helped volunteers in a nutrition study reduce levels of stress-related molecules and boost their blood levels of vitamin C (Journal of Nutrition, volume 134, pages 3021-3025). "

What's In The Foods You Eat Search Tool

What's In The Foods You Eat Search Tool: "An online searchable database of nutrient content including fat, cholesterol, energy, Carbohydrate , sugar and more for over 13,000 commonly eating foods."

Interested in Losing Weight? Get practical step-by-step assistance for long-term weight control

Interested in Losing Weight? Get practical step-by-step assistance for long-term weight control: " What You Need to Know Before Getting Started. Weight loss can be achieved either by eating fewer calories or by burning more calories with physical activity, preferably both."

Are Two Antidepressants a Good Initial Treatment for Depression?

Are Two Antidepressants a Good Initial Treatment for Depression?: "While antidepressant medications are often effective in relieving depressive symptoms, at least 60% of patients do not remit with the first agent tried. This pilot study will assess whether giving two standard medications simultaneously (i.e., Escitalopram and Bupropion) is both tolerated and improves response while decreasing drop outs. This is a replication of a previous study. "

Low Carbohydrate/High Fat Diet in the Treatment of Obesity

Low Carbohydrate/High Fat Diet in the Treatment of Obesity: "The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of a low calorie high fat/protein diet on body fat and body composition in overweight and obese subjects. The investigators will also test the effects of this diet on secondary outcomes such as: fluid and electrolyte balance, cholesterol, inflammation, sugar and insulin metabolism, fat hormones, blood pressure and feelings of fullness. "

Perception and Attitude Toward Estrogen Therapy Among Surgically Menopausal Women

Perception and Attitude Toward Estrogen Therapy Among Surgically Menopausal Women: "The aim of this study is to survey patient's cognition and attitude about health-related quality of life, use of estrogen, experience of menopausal syndrome, compliance of medication, experience, and satisfaction for women who underwent hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy before menopause. "

Pelvic Pain in Women with Endometriosis

Pelvic Pain in Women with Endometriosis: "This study will examine pelvic pain associated with endometriosis and explore better approaches to treatment. In women with endometriosis, uterine tissue grows outside the uterus. Standard treatments - altering hormone levels to prevent endometrial tissue growth or surgically removing endometrial tissue - treat pelvic pain only temporarily. This study will investigate the role of sex hormones, immune chemicals, stress hormones, and genes in pelvic pain and determine how the nerve, muscle, and skeletal systems are involved in this pain. "

HHS Provides $1 Billion in Energy Assistance Funds to Help Low-Income Families

HHS Provides $1 Billion in Energy Assistance Funds to Help Low-Income Families: "HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt today announced the release of $1 billion in supplemental funds to states and direct grant tribes that will help families in need pay their home energy bills. These funds are administered by the Administration for Children and Families through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)."

Update:Pocket Guide to Good Health for Children

Update:Pocket Guide to Good Health for Children: "This guide was developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services."

Attorney General Lockyer Launches Task Force to Examine Human Trafficking and Forced Labor

Attorney General Lockyer Launches Task Force to Examine Human Trafficking and Forced Labor: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer this week convened the first meeting of a statewide task force to address the emerging issue of human trafficking, a crime involving captives -- many of them non-English speaking women and children -- who are forced to work against their will in sweatshops, prostitution rings, farm labor, private homes and other enterprises under deplorable conditions. "

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE HITS HOME RUN WITH UNVEILING OF BASEBALL SLUGGERS STAMPS

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE HITS HOME RUN WITH UNVEILING OF BASEBALL SLUGGERS STAMPS: "Baseball Hall of Famers Mickey Mantle, Roy Campanella, Hank Greenberg and Mel Ott are on deck to be immortalized on the 39-cent 'Baseball Sluggers' postage stamps. The stamp images were unveiled today at Mickey Mantle's restaurant in New York City and are set to be issued on July 15 at Yankee Stadium before the New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox game. "

Lead Poisoning Hazard Prompts Recall of Metal Charm Bracelets

Lead Poisoning Hazard Prompts Recall of Metal Charm Bracelets: "The recalled metal charm bracelets contain high levels of accessible lead, posing a serious risk of lead poisoning to young children. Lead poisoning in children is associated with behavioral problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems and growth retardation."

Reebok Recalls Bracelet Linked to Child�s Lead Poisoning Death

Reebok Recalls Bracelet Linked to Child's Lead Poisoning Death: "Reebok has received a report of a death caused by lead poisoning of a 4-year-old child from Minneapolis, Minn. The child reportedly swallowed a piece from one of these bracelets. "

2.1 Million Available for State Incentive Grants for Persons with Co-Occurring Substance Related and Mental Disorders

2.1 Million Available for State Incentive Grants for Persons with Co-Occurring Substance Related and Mental Disorders: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announces the availability of FY 2006 funds for Co-Occurring State Incentive Grants (COSIG). These grants will enhance infrastructure to increase the capacity to provide accessible, effective, comprehensive, coordinated, integrated, and evidence-based treatment services to persons with co-occurring substance abuse and mental disorders. Grantees will also participate in a national evaluation of the COSIG program."

U.S. Tuberculosis cases at an all-time low in 2005, but drug resistance increasing

U.S. Tuberculosis cases at an all-time low in 2005, but drug resistance increasing: "The latest national surveillance data show that tuberculosis (TB) rates reached an all-time low in the United States in 2005, but progress to eliminate TB is slowing.1 Furthermore, the increasing occurrence of drug-resistant TB, including extensively drug-resistant cases, presents significant challenges to treatment and control of the disease both in the United States and abroad."

Deducting Costs of Refinancing Your Home

Deducting Costs of Refinancing Your Home: "Taxpayers who refinanced their homes may be eligible to deduct some costs associated with their loans. The term 'points' is used to describe certain charges paid to obtain a home mortgage.
Here are some things to remember when deducting points"

Deducting Car Donations

Deducting Car Donations: "If you donated a car or other vehicle to charity in 2005 and claim a deduction greater than $500, remember the rules for deducting that donation have changed. If the vehicle is sold by the charitable organization, the deduction claimed by the donor may not exceed the gross proceeds from the sale. "

Cyber Security Alert: Sendmail Race Condition Vulnerability

Cyber Security Alert: Sendmail Race Condition Vulnerability: "Sendmail contains a race condition caused by the improper handling of asynchronous signals. In particular, by forcing the SMTP server to have an I/O timeout at exactly the correct instant, an attacker may be able to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Sendmail process. "

Avian Flu Preparation Checklists

Avian Flu Preparation Checklists: "Planning for pandemic influenza is critical. To assist you in your efforts, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have developed the following checklists."

Frequently Asked Questions about the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule - Volume 1

Frequently Asked Questions about the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule - Volume 1: "The COPPA Rule applies to operators of commercial websites and online services directed to children under 13 that collect personal information from children, and operators of general audience sites with actual knowledge that they are collecting information from children under 13. "

Rape Statistics:Extent, Nature, and Consequences of Rape Victimization: Findings From the National Violence Against Women Survey

Rape Statistics:Extent, Nature, and Consequences of Rape Victimization: Findings From the National Violence Against Women Survey: "More than 300,000 women and almost 93,000 men are raped annually, according to the National Violence Against Women Survey (NVAWS). Researchers found differences in rape prevalence relating to age, gender, and race/ethnicity, as well as other factors such as whether victims were first raped as minors."

OSHA Cites Team Electric of Denver for Alleged Safety Violations

OSHA Cites Team Electric of Denver for Alleged Safety Violations: "DENVER -- The U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Team Electric Inc., Denver, Colo. for unsafe working conditions following an electrical accident at a construction site in Aurora. Proposed penalties total $115,500."

Four Defendants Indicted In Nigerian Nigerian Advance-Fee� Fraud Scam

Four Defendants Indicted In Nigerian Nigerian Advance-Fee� Fraud Scam: "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Four defendants have been indicted on federal charges of running an 'advance-fee' scheme that targeted U.S. victims with promises of millions of dollars, including money from an estate and from a lottery, Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Roslynn R. Mauskopf of the Eastern District of New York announced today."

California Files Lawsuit To Block Orange County Toll Road

California Files Lawsuit To Block Orange County Toll Road: "(SACRAMENTO) - Attorney General Bill Lockyer today filed a lawsuit to block the controversial Foothill South Toll Road, which is slated to cut through San Onofre State Beach, a state park that is home to a popular surfing spot, abuts a Native American heritage site and is one of the few remaining coastal open space areas in Southern California."

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration -- Drug Free Communities Support Grant

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration -- Drug Free Communities Support Grant: "Approximately $12 million will be available for 120 grants. Budgets cannot exceed $100,000 per year. Eligible applicants include, but are not limited to, community-based coalitions that are legally eligible entities, have the goal of reducing substance abuse among youth, target multiple drugs and address the two major goals, and must have worked together on substance abuse prevention for a period of more than six months"

Future Fisherman Foundation -- National Fishing and Boating Education Grants Initiative

Future Fisherman Foundation -- National Fishing and Boating Education Grants Initiative: "The Future Fisherman Foundation, in partnership with The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation and The National Association for Sport and Physical Education, offers the National Fishing and Boating Education Grants Initiative to incorporate quality fishing and boating programs into curriculum based K-12 physical education classes."

100th Anniversary: San Francisco Earthquake � April 18

100th Anniversary: San Francisco Earthquake - April 18: "Almost a century before Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans, one of the worst natural disasters in our nation's history devastated San Francisco. On April 18, 1906, at 5:12 in the morning, "The Great San Francisco Earthquake" struck, followed by a series of catastrophic fires that burned for three days and destroyed more than 500 blocks in the heart of the city. "

Home Computer Filing Shows Strong Growth in 2006

Home Computer Filing Shows Strong Growth in 2006: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service announced today that taxpayers are continuing to e-file from home computers at a record pace, up almost 17 percent from the same period last year."

Avian Influenza Update: Azerbaijan

Avian Influenza Update: Azerbaijan On March 21, 2006, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that avian influenza A (H5N1) virus infection had been confirmed in seven patients in Azerbaijan; five of the seven patients died.

California Issues Cease and Desist Order Against TSI Title & Escrow, Inc. for Conducting Business in State Without Proper Insurance License

The Nevada-based title company agreed to provide in excess of $860,000 in coverage on properties in El Dorado and Placer Counties, collecting over $35,000 in premiums—all while transacting business in California without a license.

National Consumers League Launches ‘Responsible Rx’ Initiative for Parents of Children with AD/HD

Washington, DC– The National Consumers League, the nation’s oldest consumer organization, today announced a new initiative for parents of children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD). “Responsible Rx” is designed to help parents make successful and appropriate treatment choices for their child with AD/HD, a challenging condition that leaves many parents confused about how to best help their child. Responsible Rx will provide parents tools to improve communication with their healthcare professional and better understand the risks and benefits of AD/HD medications.

U.S. Embassy and Ministry of Trade and Industry Sponsor �Lessons Learned� Seminar on WTO Accession

U.S. Embassy and Ministry of Trade and Industry Sponsor "Lessons Learned" Seminar on WTO Accession: "Addis Ababa (U.S. Embassy) -U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Janet Wilgus and State Minister of Trade and Industry, H. E. Ato Ahmed Tusa, on March 22 opened a one and-a-half day seminar at the Hilton Hotel on lessons learned from countries that have previously acceded to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The seminar was sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International Development, (USAID) in cooperation with the Ministry of Trade and Industry under the USAID Doha Project for WTO Accession and Participation. "

Expanding HIV/AIDS, TB & Malaria Services to Northern Uganda Grant Opportunity

Expanding HIV/AIDS, TB & Malaria Services to Northern Uganda Grant Opportunity: "Under this program, the recipient will be responsible for facilitating the delivery of HIV/AIDS and infectious disease (Tuberculosis and Malaria) services in the Acholi and Lango subregions in Uganda, through capacity building, technical assistance and funding. "

Vaccine and Antibody Treatment of Prostate Cancer

Vaccine and Antibody Treatment of Prostate Cancer: "This study will evaluate the side effects of a fixed dose of vaccine and GM-CSF with increasing doses of anti-CTLA-4 antibody in patients with advanced prostate cancer. "

Pain Management Techniques for Fibromyalgia

Pain Management Techniques for Fibromyalgia: "Pain management techniques may influence how the brain processes pain and may help patients with fibromyalgia (FM), a chronic pain condition. This study will train patients with FM to use pain management techniques. Investigators will use brain scanning (functional magnetic resonance imaging, or fMRI) technology to identify changes in how a patient's brain processes pain over time."

Tackling a Weighty Problem: America�s Obesity Epidemic

Tackling a Weighty Problem: America�s Obesity Epidemic: "Increasingly, more of us are entering the ranks of those who need to shed some pounds. Today, an estimated 64 percent of all American adults are overweight or obese. And this epidemic extends to our children, our nation�s future. Nearly 9 million children aged 6 years or older, from all states, socioeconomic, and ethnic groups, are obese. A disproportionate number of them are African-American, Hispanic, or American Indian."

West North Central Household Electricity Report

West North Central Household Electricity Report: "EIA's new regional report analyzes household energy consumption in Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. EIA statistics indicate that the 7.4 million households in the West North Central States consumed 0.8 quadrillion Btu of energy in 2001, about one-twelfth of the total for U.S. households."

'Debt Elimination Program' Fails to Deliver Guaranteed Lower Interest Rates

'Debt Elimination Program' Fails to Deliver Guaranteed Lower Interest Rates: "The Federal Trade Commission and the Washington State Attorney General have asked a federal judge to order Debt Solutions Inc. and three other telemarketers in Washington and Florida to stop charging consumers hundreds of dollars for a "debt elimination program" that offers a false promise of substantially reduced interest rates and thousands of dollars in savings."

Town Hall Meetings to Confront Underage Drinking in Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia Communities

Town Hall Meetings to Confront Underage Drinking in Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia Communities: "The Federal Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Prevention of Underage Drinking, chaired by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in partnership with state and local agencies and organizations, is spearheading a nationwide campaign to curb underage drinking before it starts. Town hall meetings, with the theme Start Talking before They Start Drinking, are being convened on and around March 28, 2006, in approximately 1,200 communities across the country."

Town Hall Meetings to Confront Underage Drinking in Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia Communities

Town Hall Meetings to Confront Underage Drinking in Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia Communities: "The Federal Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Prevention of Underage Drinking, chaired by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in partnership with state and local agencies and organizations, is spearheading a nationwide campaign to curb underage drinking before it starts. Town hall meetings, with the theme Start Talking before They Start Drinking, are being convened on and around March 28, 2006, in approximately 1,200 communities across the country."

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) - Embargo of Birds from Specified Countries

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) - Update: Embargo of Birds from Specified Countries: "Based on concerns about highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus and its potential to cause illness in humans, CDC and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have taken steps to prevent importation of birds and unprocessed bird products from countries with the virus in domestic poultry. The import restrictions do not apply to U.S.-origin pet birds which will be allowed to return upon entering a USDA quarantine facility for 30 days. The import restrictions also do not apply to processed bird products that have been rendered noninfectious. Countries affected by the CDC and USDA import restrictions are outlined in the following table:"

California Announces $8.8 Million Agreement with Time Inc. to Reform Subscription Practices, Compensate Consumers

California Announces $8.8 Million Agreement with Time Inc. to Reform Subscription Practices, Compensate Consumers: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced Time Inc. (Time) will refund to consumers up to $4.3 million, and reform its practices related to automatic renewals of magazine subscriptions, under an agreement between the publisher, Lockyer and 22 other state Attorneys General."

Growth of Hispanic-Owned Businesses Triples the National Average

Growth of Hispanic-Owned Businesses Triples the National Average: "The number of Hispanic-owned businesses grew 31 percent between 1997 and 2002 - three times the national average for all businesses -according to a new report, Survey of Business Owners: Hispanic-Owned Firms: 2002 [PDF], released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. The nearly 1.6 million Hispanic-owned businesses generated nearly $222 billion in revenue, up 19 percent from 1997"

AHRQ Launches New Web-Based Tool for States To Measure Performance on the Quality of Health Care Across America

AHRQ Launches New Web-Based Tool for States To Measure Performance on the Quality of Health Care Across America: "HHS� Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality today released a new interactive Web-based tool for States to use in measuring health care quality. The new State Snapshot Web tool is based on the 2005 National Healthcare Quality Report (NHQR) and the 2005 National Healthcare Disparities Report (NHDR), originally released on January 9, and provides quick and easy access to the many measures and tables of the NHQR from each State's perspective"

Attorney General Seeks Applicants for Grants -Antitrust Settlement

Attorney General Seeks Applicants for Grants -Antitrust Settlement: "Attorney General Lockyer is soliciting applications from nonprofit organizations and public agencies for grants to benefit cancer victims or their families in California."

Deadline Looming for California Tax Shelter Resolution Initiative - Taxpayers Stand to Save Millions

Deadline Looming for California Tax Shelter Resolution Initiative - Taxpayers Stand to Save Millions: "The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) is reminding taxpayers and tax professionals that April 3, 2006, is the last day to apply for the California Tax Shelter Resolution Initiative. The initiative was announced in FTB Notice 2006-1 and follows the IRS tax shelter settlement initiative as outlined in IRS Announcement 2005-80."

USGS Announces $5.5 Million in Earthquake Research Grants Available for 2007

USGS Announces $5.5 Million in Earthquake Research Grants Available for 2007: "(Reston, Virginia) The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) announced today that it will award up to $5.5 million in National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) grants for earthquake research in 2007. Researchers interested can review the grant announcement and apply online at www.grants.gov. Applications are due May 2, 2006."

USGS Announces $5.5 Million in Earthquake Research Grants Available for 2007

USGS Announces $5.5 Million in Earthquake Research Grants Available for 2007: "(Reston, Virginia) The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) announced today that it will award up to $5.5 million in National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) grants for earthquake research in 2007. Researchers interested can review the grant announcement and apply online at www.grants.gov. Applications are due May 2, 2006."

Deaths Possibly Connected to Medical Abortion with Mifeprex Prompt Health Advisory

Deaths Possibly Connected to Medical Abortion with Mifeprex Prompt Health Advisory: "The Food and Drug Administration has been informed of two additional deaths following medical abortion with mifepristone (Mifeprex). The Agency received verbal notification of the deaths in the United States from the manufacturer, Danco Laboratories."

John Garamendi Announces Landmark Settlement with Zurich American Insurance Co. to End Practice of Paying Secret Commissions

John Garamendi Announces Landmark Settlement with Zurich American Insurance Co. to End Practice of Paying Secret Commissions: "Agreement calls for full disclosure of all commissions; California policyholders will share in related financial settlement of $172 million"

Acupuncture and Massage for Depression During Pregnancy

Acupuncture and Massage for Depression During Pregnancy: "This study evaluates the efficacy of acupuncture and massage for the treatment of depression during pregnancy. The study also examines differential effects of study treatments on delivery outcome and post partum depression. "

How to Maintain a Healthy Weight

How to Maintain a Healthy Weight: "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. "

Massage Therapy for Breast Cancer Treatment-Related Swelling of the Arms

Massage Therapy for Breast Cancer Treatment-Related Swelling of the Arms: "The purpose of this study is to examine the short-term and long-term efficacy of massage therapy alone compared to massage therapy plus compression bandaging in the treatment of breast cancer treatment-related swelling of the arms and legs. "

Mediation Week� Features Program That Returned Nearly $2 Million to Consumers Last Year

'Mediation Week'Features Program That Returned Nearly $2 Million to Consumers Last Year: "SACRAMENTO -Consumers help drive a California economy that ranks as the world's sixth largest. But what can a consumer do if a good deal goes bad? For thousands of California consumers, the answer is the Department of Consumer Affairs'Complaint Mediation Program or similar programs statewide"

Mediation Week� Features Program That Returned Nearly $2 Million to Consumers Last Year

'Mediation Week'Features Program That Returned Nearly $2 Million to Consumers Last Year: "SACRAMENTO -Consumers help drive a California economy that ranks as the world's sixth largest. But what can a consumer do if a good deal goes bad? For thousands of California consumers, the answer is the Department of Consumer Affairs'Complaint Mediation Program or similar programs statewide"

DIR verifies Michael Jackson�s payment to employees for back-wages

DIR verifies Michael Jackson's payment to employees for back-wages: "San Francisco -The Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) today confirmed directly with employees of Neverland Valley Ranch that they were paid wages owed them by Michael Jackson. DIR will now begin the process of auditing payroll records to verify that proper wage payments were made. Verification will not be completed until sometime next week. "