Saturday, July 08, 2006

Certified Transcription Services Contract Solicitation

Certified Transcription Services Contract Solicitation: "The Department of Personnel Administration is soliciting bids for Certified Transcription Services. The services provided will include court reporting services and tape transcription for depositions, hearing tapes and transcription of witness interviews, and arbitration and other situations that require being recorded or documented."

Oracle Software Contract Solicitation

Oracle Software Contract Solicitation: "This solicitation is for the purchase of various Oracle Software products to be delivered to the Department of Conservation on December 1, 2006."

Friday, July 07, 2006

President Declares Major Disaster For New Jersey

President Declares Major Disaster For New Jersey: "WASHINGTON - The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the State of New Jersey. The assistance will supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and flooding beginning on June 23, 2006, and continuing."

Haiti Travel Warning for American Citizens

Haiti Travel Warning for American Citizens: "This Travel Warning is being issued to remind American citizens of the ongoing security concerns in Haiti and to advise that they carefully consider the risks when traveling there. The Department of State has lifted the Ordered Departure of embassy employee dependents under the age of 21, but continues to advise U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Haiti to exercise caution at all times and review basic personal security procedures. "

IRS Renews E-mail Alert Following New Scams

IRS Renews E-mail Alert Following New Scams: "Following a recent increase in scam e-mails, the Internal Revenue Service reminded taxpayers to be on the lookout for bogus e-mails claiming to be from the tax agency. The IRS saw an increase in complaints in recent weeks about these e-mails, which are designed to trick the recipients into disclosing personal and financial information that could be used to steal the recipients' identity and financial assets."

Small Business Disaster Assistance Loan Guarantee Program for California Salmon Fisherman

Small Business Disaster Assistance Loan Guarantee Program for California Salmon Fisherman: "The Small Business Disaster Assistance Loan Guarantee Program helps farm and agriculture-related enterprises obtain financing needed to recover from losses caused by disastersin areas declared to be in a State of Emergency by the Governor. Counties currently under aState of Emergency because of adverse effects on the Klamath River Basin Chinook Salmonpopulation include: Del Norte, Humboldt, Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Mateo, San Francisco, Marin, Sonoma, Mendocino, and Siskiyou."

Department Requests Assistance in Identifying Sites for Locating New Job Corps Centers

Department Requests Assistance in Identifying Sites for Locating New Job Corps Centers: "The Department of Labor is soliciting proposals for sites to establish new Job Corps centers. The Job Corps program is designed to serve disadvantaged young women and men, 16 through 24, who are in need of additional educational, career technical (vocational), and other support services in order to acquire the skills to begin a career, return to school or enter the Armed Forces. "

Thursday, July 06, 2006

New Life and Annuity Consumer Protection Program Protects Consumers from Life and Annuity Fraud

New Life and Annuity Consumer Protection Program Protects Consumers from Life and Annuity FraudFour counties have been awarded grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 to be used for education, outreach, investigation and prosecution of life and annuity fraud – a crime that primarily targets senior citizens.

Going, Going, Gone: Using Wire Transfers for Internet Auction Purchases Can Be Risky

Going, Going, Gone: Using Wire Transfers for Internet Auction Purchases Can Be Risky: "Internet auction sites give buyers access to an incredible array of merchandise from around the world. And while many people are thrilled with their purchases, others have learned that transactions between buyers and sellers can be risky. "

Tools for Finding the Right Job

Tools for Finding the Right Job: "Students looking for a career or upscale lifestyle are usually unaware of how much money their dream career will pay, or how much education is needed to become self-sufficient. Job seekers usually find themselves in a position where they are ready to move to better jobs, but have no clue what kind of job matches their education and skills. Two new resources will help both the student and job seeker make these important decisions."

Wednesday, July 05, 2006

ETA Announces Availability of $125 Million in Grant Funds for Community-Based Job Training Grants

ETA Announces Availability of $125 Million in Grant Funds for Community-Based Job Training Grants: "ETA Announces Availability of $125 Million in Grant Funds for Community-Based Job Training Grants; Emphasizes Objective of Building Capacity for Community Colleges to Train for High-Growth and High-Demand Industries "

State, Federal Emergency Managers Urge Pa. Residents To Report Flood Damage To Local EMA

State, Federal Emergency Managers Urge Pa. Residents To Report Flood Damage To Local EMA: "HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Emergency Management Agency would like to remind disaster victims impacted by heavy rain and flooding to report damages to their local emergency management agencies. Contact information can be found in your local telephone directory."

FEMA Disaster Aid Now Available for Residents in Five Counties

FEMA Disaster Aid Now Available for Residents in Five Counties: "HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Homeowners, renters, and business owners in Monroe, Schuylkill, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties can now apply for disaster aid by calling the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA's) toll-free registration number at 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362). Those who are hearing and speech impaired may call TTY 1-800-462-7585. Affected residents should begin calling July 5th. Phone lines are open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. EDT. Flood victims may also register for disaster assistance online at www.fema.gov."

NOAA SATELLITES RESPOND TO DISTRESS CALLS

NOAA SATELLITES RESPOND TO DISTRESS CALLS: "As summer weather brings out more boaters, campers and hikers, NOAA satellites and search and rescue staff are prepared to handle distress signals from emergency locator beacons."

Looking for a Job? Get Hired-Not Scammed -The FBI Reports

Looking for a Job? Get Hired-Not Scammed - The FBI Reports: "In the market for a new job? The Internet has made it easier than ever to find one. It"s also made it easier for criminals to find you. "

Webcast: Drug Addiction and the Justice System: Deciphering the Maze

Webcast: Drug Addiction and the Justice System: Deciphering the Maze: "This program will explore drug addiction treatment services and interventions at each segment of the justice system. The sectors covered by this show include: community policing, points of arrests, initial interventions for first-time offense, drug courts, responses to relapse, prison services, and services regarding reentry into society."

Don�t Fall for the Cell Phone Dating Service Scheme -The FBI Reports

Don't Fall for the Cell Phone Dating Service Scheme -The FBI Reports: "The FBI has been alerted to newly discovered malware located at http://www.irrealhost.com. Malware is software designed to infiltrate or damage a computer system without the owner's consent. "

Tuesday, July 04, 2006

Agency Seeking Proposals for $6.8 Million in New Safety and Health Training Grants

Agency Seeking Proposals for $6.8 Million in New Safety and Health Training Grants: "OSHA is making approximately $6.8 million available in new grants to nonprofit organizations for safety and health training and educational programs under the agency's Susan Harwood Training Grant program. "

Sleep Disorders|Symptoms of Sleep Disturbances in COPD Patients in Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Sleep DisordersSymptoms of Sleep Disturbances in COPD Patients in Pulmonary Rehabilitation: "The goal for COPD patients in pulmonary rehabilitation programs is to improve the quality of life. COPD is known to be worse at night as are other respiratory problems such as CHF. Saturation is known to get worse nocturnally as well. Furthermore, these COPD rehabilitation patients tend to be older and increasing age is associated with an increase in the incidence of sleep disorders."

Dietary Treatment of Crohn's Disease

Dietary Treatment of Crohn's Disease: "The purpose of this study is to determine whether a specific dietary intervention or a fructooligosaccharide (FOS) supplement has anti-oxidant or prebiotic effects and whether it is beneficial in the treatment of Crohn's Disease. "

Depression in Alzheimer's Disease

Depression in Alzheimer's Disease: "The purpose of this study is to learn whether treating individuals with Alzheimer's disease and depression with the anti-depressant medication sertraline (Zoloft) is helpful to people with Alzheimer's disease and to their families and caregivers."

The U.S. Government Announces Plans to Redesign the $5 Note

The U.S. Government Announces Plans to Redesign the $5 Note: "The U.S. government announced today that it plans to redesign the $5 note as part of ongoing security enhancements to U.S. currency. Officials said redesigning the $5 note will help update and protect U.S. currency. "

Two new federal college grants available for the 2006-2007 school year

Two new federal college grants available for the 2006-2007 school year: "An Academic Competitiveness Grant will provide up to $750 for the first year of undergraduate study and up to $1,300 for the second year of undergraduate study to full-time students who are U.S citizens, eligible for a Federal Pell Grant, and who had successfully completed a rigorous high school program, as determined by the state or local education agency"

Monday, July 03, 2006

Early Drinking Linked to Higher Lifetime Alcoholism Risk

Early Drinking Linked to Higher Lifetime Alcoholism Risk: "Data from a survey of 43,000 U.S. adults heighten concerns that early alcohol use, independent of other risk factors, may contribute to the risk of developing future alcohol problems. Those who began drinking in their early teens were not only at greater risk of developing alcohol dependence at some point in their lives, they were also at greater risk of developing dependence more quickly and at younger ages, and of developing chronic, relapsing dependence."

NOAA WARNS THAT NATURE'S FIREWORKS AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES CAN BE A DEADLY MIX

NOAA WARNS THAT NATURE'S FIREWORKS AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES CAN BE A DEADLY MIX: "Lightning and summertime outdoor activities can be a lethal combination warn meteorologists with the NOAA National Weather Service as the nation enters lightning's most deadly time of the year."

Sunday, July 02, 2006

MEDICARE DETAILS STEPS TAKEN TO IMPROVE CUSTOMER SERVICE BY DRUG PLANS

MEDICARE DETAILS STEPS TAKEN TO IMPROVE CUSTOMER SERVICE BY DRUG PLANS: "Since January, Medicare has taken more than 1,000 compliance actions to improve prescription drug plan service to beneficiaries, and in most cases, these actions have resulted in timely responses by the drug plans."

Prevent Skin Cancer! Order Your Free Sun Safety Kit

Prevent Skin Cancer! Order Your Free Sun Safety Kit: "The Skin Cancer Prevention Program is working to help businesses, organizations, and individuals understand why and how to guard themselves from unprotected exposure to sunlight, since ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight cause 90 percent of all skin cancer."

Pomegranate Juice in Treating Patients With Rising Prostate-Specific Antigen Levels After Surgery or Radiation Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer

Pomegranate Juice in Treating Patients With Rising Prostate-Specific Antigen Levels After Surgery or Radiation Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer: "Pomegranate juice may keep prostate cancer from growing in patients with rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels after surgery or radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer. This randomized clinical trial is studying how well pomegranate juice works in treating patients with rising PSA levels after surgery or radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer. "

Pressure Washer Safety

Pressure Washer Safety: "A pressure washer is a power tool that sprays water at high pressures to clean large, sturdy surfaces such as buildings, farm equipment and roads. Pressure washers may be used more often during disaster clean-up when the risk of injury may be higher. "

Public Exploit Code for Unpatched Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Internet Explorer

Public Exploit Code for Unpatched Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Internet Explorer: "US-CERT is aware of publicly available exploit code for two unpatched vulnerabilities in Microsoft Internet Explorer. We are tracking the first vulnerability as VU#655100. By persuading a user to double-click a file accessible through WebDAV or SMB, a remote attacker may be able to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user"

Saturday, July 01, 2006

High-Pressure Water Injection Injury Management ( high pressure washers)

High-Pressure Water Injection Injury Management ( high pressure washers): "The seriousness of high pressure injection injuries is generally underestimated.
The wounds often appear benign, but these injuries can result in serious infection, disability and amputation if not treated appropriately. The potential for serious injury should be considered with any device that produces greater than 100 pounds per square inch (PSI) of pressure. "

OSHA Unveils Safety and Health Topics Page for Concrete and Concrete Products Industry

OSHA Unveils Safety and Health Topics Page for Concrete and Concrete Products Industry: "The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) today announced the availability of a new page on the agency's Web site that provides web-based assistance for employers and employees in the concrete products industry."

Friday, June 30, 2006

SAMHSA Announces How It Will Review Submissions to New National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices

SAMHSA Announces How It Will Review Submissions to New National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the agency's Fiscal Year 2007 review priorities for mental health and substance use prevention and treatment programs and practices submitted to its National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP). "

Man Convicted For Illegal Possession of a Machine Gun (6/30/06)

Man Convicted For Illegal Possession of a Machine Gun (6/30/06): "A nineteen-year-old Cass Lake, Minnesota, man was convicted in U.S. District Court on Wednesday of illegal possession of a machine gun. After two and one-half days of trial, a federal jury deliberated for fewer than two hours before finding Timothy Joseph Goodman guilty. "

Sears Settles Case with OSHA; Adopts Corporate Wide Safety and Health Program for Powered Industrial Trucks

Sears Settles Case with OSHA; Adopts Corporate Wide Safety and Health Program for Powered Industrial Trucks: "Sears, one of the nation's largest retailers, will adopt a safety and health program to ensure that all powered industrial trucks are operated in a safe manner, as part of a settlement agreement announced today by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The settlement applies to all Sears stores within federal OSHA jurisdiction."

IRS Headquarters Building Remains Closed; Tax Operations Continue

IRS Headquarters Building Remains Closed; Tax Operations Continue: "WASHINGTON -- The IRS Headquarters Building at 1111 Constitution Ave. NW in Washington is likely to remain closed for at least 30 days due to flooding and electrical outages."

Update:Key Facts About Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) and Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus

Update:Key Facts About Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) and Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus: "This fact sheet provides general information about avian influenza (bird flu) and information about one type of bird flu, called avian influenza A (H5N1), that has caused infections in birds and in humans. "

Thursday, June 29, 2006

Attorney General Lockyer Announces Settlement With Hershey and Mars Subsidiaries To Reduce Lead In Mexican Candy Popular with Children

Attorney General Lockyer Announces Settlement With Hershey and Mars Subsidiaries To Reduce Lead In Mexican Candy Popular with Children: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced a settlement with three major candy manufacturers that will substantially reduce the levels of lead found in "Mexican style" candies, spicy treats that are becoming increasingly popular with children, who are particularly vulnerable to brain damage and other health effects caused by exposure to lead."

Attorney General Lockyer Announces Settlement With Hershey and Mars Subsidiaries To Reduce Lead In Mexican Candy Popular with Children

Attorney General Lockyer Announces Settlement With Hershey and Mars Subsidiaries To Reduce Lead In Mexican Candy Popular with Children: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced a settlement with three major candy manufacturers that will substantially reduce the levels of lead found in "Mexican style" candies, spicy treats that are becoming increasingly popular with children, who are particularly vulnerable to brain damage and other health effects caused by exposure to lead."

Are You Ready? Financial Readiness Before a Disaster Strikes

Are You Ready? Financial Readiness Before a Disaster Strikes: "The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation's consumer protection agency, says that when it comes to preparing for situations like weather emergencies, financial readiness is as important as a flashlight with fully charged batteries. Leaving your home can be stressful, but knowing that your financial documents are up-to-date, in one place, and portable can make a big difference at a tense time."

Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi's Office to Announce Major Indictment of 25 Suspects for Insurance Fraud

Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi's Office to Announce Major Indictment of 25 Suspects for Insurance Fraud: "One year probe by the California Department of Insurance's Urban Organized Auto Fraud Task Force nets 25 suspects who created 22 "phantom" auto accidents"

Corrected:ACTIVISION RELEASES SECOND WAVE OF NEW CALL OF DUTY� 2 XBOX 360� MULTIPLAYER MAPS

Corrected:ACTIVISION RELEASES SECOND WAVE OF NEW CALL OF DUTY®2 XBOX 360™ MULTIPLAYER MAPS: "June 29, 2006 - Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI), and Infinity Ward today released the Invasion Map Pack™ for Call of Duty® 2: five new multiplayer maps that further expand the experience of the #1 top-selling title for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. The Invasion Map Pack is currently available for purchase (800 Microsoft Points) on Xbox Live ® Marketplace"

Protecting Your Identity : The FBI Reports

Protecting Your Identity : The FBI Reports: "Identity theft is an increasingly insidious and pervasive problem- one that the FBI and other law enforcement agencies can't tackle alone despite many ongoing initiatives. Now, with the help of a new public and private sector partnership, we won't have to. "

OSHA Resuming Regular Enforcement throughout Mississippi

OSHA Resuming Regular Enforcement throughout Mississippi: "Following Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma last summer, OSHA exempted a number of counties and parishes in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana from regular enforcement status. In those areas, OSHA limited its inspections to cases involving fatalities, catastrophic accidents or complaints."

Understanding Hidden Threats: Corrupted Software Files

Understanding Hidden Threats: Corrupted Software Files: "Malicious code is not always hidden in web page scripts or unusual file formats. Attackers may corrupt types of files that you would recognize and typically consider safe, so you should take precautions when opening files from other people."

Flooding in South Central New York

Flooding in South Central New York: "There is severe flooding in parts of south-central New York including much of the Delaware River basin as a result of heavy rainfall over the last several days. The Delaware River at Callicoon, NY was at 19.64 feet and over 125,000 cubic feet per second (ft3/s) at 7:30 this morning (Wednesday June 28). The National Weather Service flood stage for this site is 12 feet."

FTC Testifies on Social Networking Sites

FTC Testifies on Social Networking Sites: "The Federal Trade Commission today called on social networking sites to make sure children visiting their sites can stay safe and their parents can protect them. "

U.S. Under Secretary for International Trade Announces Business Development Mission to India in November

U.S. Under Secretary for International Trade Announces Business Development Mission to India in November: "U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Franklin L. Lavin today announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce will lead a business development mission to India in November. Lavin is inviting U.S. companies from a wide range of sectors to participate in the mission. Indian Secretary of Commerce S.N. Menon welcomed the proposal. "

Medicare Update:No Penalty for 2006 if you Qualify for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs

Medicare Update:No Penalty for 2006 if you Qualify for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs: "Medicare beneficiaries eligible for the extra help have a special enrollment period that allows them to enroll in a plan between May 15 and December 31. Medicare beneficiaries are eligible for the extra help if they have limited income and resources."

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

POSTAL SERVICE, UNITED PARCEL SERVICE EXPAND BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP

POSTAL SERVICE, UNITED PARCEL SERVICE EXPAND BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP: "The U.S. Postal Service today awarded a contract to United Parcel Service (UPS), significantly enhancing a business relationship involving the domestic air transportation of mail. The agreement calls for UPS to transport primarily First Class and Priority mail to and from 98 U.S. cities."

OSHA Seeking Proposals for $6.8 Million in New Safety and Health Training Grants

OSHA Seeking Proposals for $6.8 Million in New Safety and Health Training Grants: "The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is accepting proposals for approximately $6.8 million in new grants to nonprofit organizations for safety and health training and educational programs under the Agency's Susan Harwood Training Grants program. An additional $3.3 million will be used to fund renewal grants for recipients of last year's institutional competency building grants."

Share Safer Sex Counseling Program for Changing Sexual Risk Behaviors in Mexican Female Sex Workers

Share Safer Sex Counseling Program for Changing Sexual Risk Behaviors in Mexican Female Sex Workers: "This study will evaluate the effectiveness of the Share Safer Sex Program in reducing sexual risk behaviors among female sex workers in four Mexican cities close to the U.S. border. "

Fire Captain Delivers Own Baby

Fire Captain Delivers Own Baby: "Chico Fire Captain Dan Reese responded early Monday morning to what is normally a routine emergency call for firefighters but in this case, the patient was his wife, Jade, who was in labor with the couple's second child."

Oxygen Treatment in Heart Failure

Oxygen Treatment in Heart Failure: "The purpose of this study is to determine whether oxygen therapy during sleep improves quality of life, exercise capacity and heart function among patients with chronic heart failure and central sleep apnea. "

Business Management Consulting Services RFP

Business Management Consulting Services RFP: "The Purpose of this RFP is to solicit proposals from qualified bidders to develop a Master Services Agreement (MSA) for Business Managment Consulting Services in the following categories:
Organizational Development
Strategic Planning
Department/Program Development, Perfomance Measures and Evaluation
Fiscal Services
Benefits Consulting Services
Investments Consulting
Marketing Services
Workforce Planning"

Solicitation of Applications for Small Minority Producers

Solicitation of Applications for Small Minority Producers: "The Rural Business-Cooperative Service announces the availability of approximately $1.473 million in competitive grant funds for fiscal year (FY) 2006 for cooperatives and associations of cooperatives to assist small minority producers. "

OSHA Fines Flushing Hospital $112,500 for Formaldehyde Hazards

OSHA Fines Flushing Hospital $112,500 for Formaldehyde Hazards: "A Flushing hospital's alleged failure to protect workers from exposure to formaldehyde has resulted in $112,500 in fines from the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)."

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

New Safety Recommendations for Pedicures

New Safety Recommendations for Pedicures: "The recommendations we're unveiling today are practical, effective ways to reduce the risk of mycobacteria, staph and other infections from pedicures,' said Director Zettel."

Social Skills Training for Improving Social Functioning in People With Schizophrenia

Social Skills Training for Improving Social Functioning in People With Schizophrenia: "This study will evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral social skills training versus supportive contact in improving social functioning in people with schizophrenia. "

Illegal Contractors Caught in Central Coast Sting Operation By State Contractors Board

Illegal Contractors Caught in Central Coast Sting Operation By State Contractors Board: " lure of easy money led more than two dozen unlicensed operators into a sting operation conducted by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) in Pismo Beach. The stings were held over two days (Wednesday & Thursday, June 21, 22) with support from the Pismo Beach Police Department, and the San Luis Obispo County Builders Exchange."

SEC and Korea Financial Supervisory Commission Announce Terms of Reference for Regulatory Dialogue

SEC and Korea Financial Supervisory Commission Announce Terms of Reference for Regulatory Dialogue: "The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Korea Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) today announced terms for regulatory dialogue between the two agencies."

SEC Charges Morgan Stanley With Failure To Maintain And Enforce Policies To Prevent Misuse of Inside Information

SEC Charges Morgan Stanley With Failure To Maintain And Enforce Policies To Prevent Misuse of Inside Information: "The Securities and Exchange Commission announced today the institution and simultaneous settlement of an enforcement action against Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated and Morgan Stanley DW Inc. (Morgan Stanley). Despite the legal requirements to do so, Morgan Stanley for years failed to maintain and enforce adequate written policies and procedures to prevent the misuse of material nonpublic information, commonly referred to as inside information."

FEMA to Provide Disaster Assistance Information at Home Improvement Stores in Massachusetts and New Hampshire

FEMA to Provide Disaster Assistance Information at Home Improvement Stores in Massachusetts and New Hampshire: " series of free disaster assistance workshops will take place at home improvement centers in several Massachusetts and New Hampshire communities starting Tuesday. These workshops are open to the public and are designed to provide information to residents on homeowner mitigation and on state and federal disaster assistance following the mid-May flooding."

USAID Donates Refrigerators Worth Over One Million US Dollars to Oromiya, Amhara and SNNP Regions to Support Childhood Immunization in Ethiopia

USAID Donates Refrigerators Worth Over One Million US Dollars to Oromiya, Amhara and SNNP Regions to Support Childhood Immunization in Ethiopia: "The United States Agency for International Development (USAID/Ethiopia) has donated 717 refrigerators and spare parts to the Regional Health Offices in Oromiya, Amhara and SNNP Regions. The refrigerators, valued at over one million U.S. Dollars (approximately 11.5 million birr), will be used to strengthen Ethiopia�s childhood immunization program. "

Scam Artists Posing As Sellers on eBay

Scam Artists Posing As Sellers on eBay: "Consumers should be on the alert for scam artists posing as sellers on eBay, the California-based Internet auction site, who victimize bidders through bogus second chance offers. To avoid falling victim to this scam, we offer some tips and precautions below."

Monday, June 26, 2006

Updated Guidelines: The Prevention of childhood obesity through increased physical activity

Updated Guidelines: The Prevention of childhood obesity through increased physical activity: "This is the current release of the guideline. All policy statements from the American Academy of Pediatrics automatically expire 5 years after publication unless reaffirmed, revised, or retired at or before that time."

Rural Initiative for New American Farmers Partnerships 2006 Request for Applications

Rural Initiative for New American Farmers Partnerships 2006 Request for Applications: "The Risk Management Agency (RMA) announces the availability of approximately $500,000 to fund the Rural Initiative for New American Farmers. A maximum of ten partnership agreements will be awarded nationwide with a maximum award of $50,000 for an individual project."

NOAA PROPOSES REGULATIONS TO REDUCE RISK OF COLLISIONS BETWEEN SHIPS AND ENDANGERED NORTHERN RIGHT WHALES

NOAA PROPOSES REGULATIONS TO REDUCE RISK OF COLLISIONS BETWEEN SHIPS AND ENDANGERED NORTHERN RIGHT WHALES: "The NOAA Fisheries Service today published a proposed rule describing regulations to reduce the risk of collisions between North Atlantic right whales and ocean-going vessels. Right whales are among the most endangered species in the world and are highly vulnerable to ship collisions. "

Study Shows Obesity is the Second Leading Cause of Preventable Deaths in U.S.

Study Shows Obesity is the Second Leading Cause of Preventable Deaths in U.S.: "Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable deaths and is associated with many significant health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. This document summarizes research on obesity and overweight supported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), including current and completed projects, recent findings, and several conferences."

Sunday, June 25, 2006

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF CORPORATIONS

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF CORPORATIONS: "The California Department of Corporations (DOC) announced that it has charged a Costa Mesa man , doing business as Benchmark Financial Services, with fraudulently operating as an investment adviser. Scott made recommendations to some 40 clients, primarily seniors, who invested $15 million in mutual funds. Benchmark Financial received an average of at least $150,000 annually in commissions for providing recommendations and mutual fund research. "

Student Loan 2006-2007 Interest Rates to Increase on July 1, 2006

Student Loan 2006-2007 Interest Rates to Increase on July 1, 2006: "Borrowers who consolidate prior to July 1, 2006 will be able to lock in their loans at a lower interest rate. FFEL and Direct Consolidation Loans have fixed interest rates that are based on the weighted average of the interest rates on the loans being consolidated. A lender can provide a new consolidation loan borrower with the lowest statutory weighted average of the interest rate for loans by using the lower of the weighted average interest rates on loans being consolidated as of July 1 or the date the lender received the borrower's consolidation loan application."

Saturday, June 24, 2006

Identity Theft Alert: USDA Possible Personal Information Breach

Identity Theft Alert: USDA Possible Personal Information Breach: "Over the June 3, 2006, weekend, USDA cyber security staffers monitoring our systems detected some suspicious activity involving an Office of Operations workstation and two servers containing employee personal data. The indication was that someone from outside of USDA was attempting to gain unauthorized access to the system"

Friday, June 23, 2006

Attorney General Lockyer Announces California�s Launch of 2006 Campaign Against Illegal Marijuana Growing Operations

Attorney General Lockyer Announces California's Launch of 2006 Campaign Against Illegal Marijuana Growing Operations: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced the kick-off of California's 2006 Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (CAMP) eradication program. State, local and federal agencies worked together last year to seize more than one million illegal marijuana plants growing on public lands, which set a new CAMP record"

IDENTITY THIEF WITH INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM CREDIT BUREAU PLEADS GUILTY

IDENTITY THIEF WITH INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM CREDIT BUREAU PLEADS GUILTY: "The third member of an identity theft ring that used personal information fraudulently obtained from Experian and other companies to apply for fraudulent loans pleaded guilty this morning to federal identity theft charges"

AFGHANISTAN Travel Warning for American Citizens

AFGHANISTAN Travel Warning for American Citizens: "The Department of State continues to strongly warn 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"

WWW.WORKFORCE3ONE.ORG to Host June 30 Webinar � Tapping into the Pipeline of Limited English Proficient Workers

http://communitydispatch.com/artman/publish/article_5367.shtml: "Participants during this June 30 Webinar will learn about solutions that have been successfully implemented to develop a pipeline of Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals with the skills demanded by business and industry. The session will highlight the partnerships and program designs that have proven effective in tapping into this labor pool. The presenters will also identify strategies used to overcome the challenges inherent in developing and implementing successful training programs that combine language skills training with vocational training. "

More Data Or Smarter Data? Increasing the Value and Timeliness of Business Information Using XBRL

More Data Or Smarter Data? Increasing the Value and Timeliness of Business Information Using XBRL: "Government CFOs, financial management professionals, CIOs, CTOs, financial and data analysts, and subject matter experts are invited to attend this free day-long conference on XBRL, an XML business information reporting language. XBRL increases the efficiency, accuracy, productivity, and timeliness of financial data reporting and analysis."

17,000 Veterans to Benefit from $26 Million in Job Training Grants

17,000 Veterans to Benefit from $26 Million in Job Training Grants: "U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced 91 grants, totaling nearly $26 million, to provide approximately 17,000 veterans with job training to help them succeed in civilian careers. The grants were awarded under the Department of Labor's Veterans' Workforce Investment Program (VWIP) and Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP). "

THOUSANDS OF FAMILIES USE HUD HOUSING VOUCHERS TO BUY HOMES

THOUSANDS OF FAMILIES USE HUD HOUSING VOUCHERS TO BUY HOMES: "More than 5,000 low to moderate-income families have become homeowners thanks to an innovative voucher homeownership program instituted by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The impressive program results are outlined in the Voucher Homeownership Study (VHO) released today by the agency."

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi Announces Major Bust of "Operation Freeway Squat" Staged Auto Collision Ring on Southland Freeways

Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi Announces Major Bust of "Operation Freeway Squat" Staged Auto Collision Ring on Southland Freeways: "Twenty-seven month probe by the Los Angeles County Auto Insurance Fraud Task Force nets 23 total arrests estimates more than 125 allegedly staged auto collisions, causing an estimated loss of $4 million"

Phishing Attacks Targeting Myspace.Com Users.

The FBI is warning web users of phishing attacks targeting users of a popular social networking web site. The scam is designed to steal personal information.

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi Announces Arrests of Family Business Owners for Grand Theft, Workers' Compensation Fraud and Payroll Tax Evasion

Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi Announces Arrests of Family Business Owners for Grand Theft, Workers' Compensation Fraud and Payroll Tax Evasion: "State's audit of contracting business shows underreporting of employees wages by $1.9 million; SCIF's audit shows business owes $2.7 million in additional premiums"

NOAA OZONE FORECASTING TOOL NOW COVERS WESTERN U.S.

NOAA OZONE FORECASTING TOOL NOW COVERS WESTERN U.S.: "The NOAA National Weather Service, in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency, will now provide experimental forecast guidance for ground-level ozone for the western half of the contiguous United States�a total of 17 states from the Plains to the Pacific Coast. This is in addition to the air quality forecast guidance currently available for the eastern half of the U.S."

NeighborWorks Organizations Prepare for Increase In Mortgage - New Borrowers Facing Potential Mortgage Payment Shock

NeighborWorks Organizations Prepare for Increase In Mortgage - New Borrowers Facing Potential Mortgage Payment Shock: " homeowners seeking mortgage and budget counseling as rising interest rates, slowing home price appreciation and mortgage payment changes threaten to push many homeowners into delinquency, budget straits or both."

Are You Ready to Evacuate?

Are You Ready to Evacuate?: "In the event of a sudden emergency, you may have just minutes to gather your family and important papers, and get out of your house, possibly for good. Are you prepared? Where would you go? What would you take with you? "

Update: Veterans Affairs Data Security Issue - VA to Provide Free Credit Monitoring

Update: Veterans Affairs Data Security Issue - VA to Provide Free Credit Monitoring: "As part of the continuing efforts by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to protect and assist those potentially affected by the recent data theft that occurred at an employee's Maryland home, Secretary of Veterans Affairs R. James Nicholson today announced that VA will provide one year of free credit monitoring to people whose sensitive personal information may have been stolen in the incident."

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE EXPANDS LICENSING PROGRAM - Seeks possible partners at International Licensing Show

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE EXPANDS LICENSING PROGRAM - Seeks possible partners at International Licensing Show: "With properties like Pony Express and Air Mail, the Postal Service licensing program seeks to expand into more traditional licensed categories for consumer products, including apparel makers. The new direction of the program will allow the Postal Service to seek new and exciting partners and licensing relationships"

Diabetes: Women's Health Myths: Get the Facts

Diabetes: Women's Health Myths: Get the Facts: "Diabetes prevention is proven, possible, and powerful. Studies show that people at high risk for type 2 diabetes can prevent or delay the onset of the disease by losing 5 to 7 percent of their body weight. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, losing only 10 pounds could make a difference. You can do it by eating healthier and getting 30 minutes of physical activity 5 days a week."

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

HUD CHARGES MISSOURI LANDLORD WITH SEXUAL HARASSMENT

HUD CHARGES MISSOURI LANDLORD WITH SEXUAL HARASSMENT: "The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has charged a Richmond, Missouri, landlord with violating the Fair Housing Act for sexually harassing a female tenant. The Fair Housing Act makes it illegal to discriminate against persons based on their race, color, national origin, religion, gender, disability or familial status."

2.4 Million Started Using Pain Relievers in Past Year

2.4 Million Started Using Pain Relievers in Past Year: "The new report, Nonmedical Users of Pain Relievers: Characteristics of Recent Initiates, shows that 2.4 million persons ages 12 or older initiated nonmedical use of prescription pain relievers in the 12 months prior to the survey, 2.1 million initiated use of marijuana, and 1 million initiated use of cocaine."

Net Conference: Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Cervical Cancer, and HPV Vaccine and Recommendations

Net Conference: Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Cervical Cancer, and HPV Vaccine and Recommendations: "The National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, and The National Immunization Program are pleased to present a live netconference program titled Current Issues in Immunization. This program is designed to provide clinicians with the most up-to-date information on immunization. The session will be held July 7, 2006 at 12:00pm Eastern Time."

DOL Announces up to $5 Million in Grants for Self-Employment Pilots for People with Disabilities

DOL Announces up to $5 Million in Grants for Self-Employment Pilots for People with Disabilities: "U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a grant of $1 million, with an initial release of $550,167, to assist approximately 250 workers affected by the closure of the Stop & Shop Supermarket Company distribution center in North Haven, Conn. This $1 million grant will help the distribution center's workers get the skills training, placement services and assistance they need to secure new jobs,' said Secretary Elaine L. Chao. This investment will help these workers build solid career paths and a better future for themselves and their families"

Active Exploitation of a Vulnerability in Microsoft Excel

Active Exploitation of a Vulnerability in Microsoft Excel: "US-CERT is aware of active exploitation of a new vulnerability in Microsoft Excel. Successful exploitation could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running Excel."

New Identity theft Laws

New Identity Theft Laws: "To help Hawaii residents better protect themselves against the growing problem of ID Theft, Governor Lingle proposed a comprehensive package of bills to address identity theft during the 2006 legislative session. The Legislature adopted six bills and the Governor signed the bills on May 25, 2006."

Monday, June 19, 2006

NCUA�s name and logo are being used in phishing spams

NCUA's name and logo are being used in phishing spams: "The National Credit Union Administration�s name, logo and website are being used repeatedly in spammed messages being distributed across the country in attempts to obtain personal account information and pin numbers. "

HUD TO HOST NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS REGIONAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE WORKSHOP IN BOSTON

HUD TO HOST NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS REGIONAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE WORKSHOP IN BOSTON: "The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will host a Neighborhood Networks Regional Technical Assistance Workshop (RTAW) in Boston, MA, on June 21-23, 2006. Afternoon sessions will be held at Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology."

Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment

Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: "Nearly three decades of scientific research has yielded 13 fundamental principles that characterize effective drug abuse treatment. These principles are detailed in NIDA's Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide. "

Commonly Abused Drugs

Commonly Abused Drugs a comprehensive listing by the National Institute of Drug Abuse on the commonly used drug in the United States."

State Employees Advised Of Potential Breach Of Personal Information

State Employees Advised Of Potential Breach Of Personal Information: "Letters were delivered to approximately 1,550 state employees and other individuals outside of state service applying for employment with the state informing them that documents that may contain their personal information are likely to have been mistakenly disposed of as trash instead of shredded as intended, California Department of Health Services (CDHS) Director Sandra Shewry announced today."

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Arthritis Related Articles of Interest

This study reported that a weight reduction of 10% improved function by 28% in patients with knee osteoarthritis.