EEOC Age Discrimination Settlement: Stillwater School District to Pay $1.12 Million For Age Bias Against Class of Retired Employees

EEOC Age Discrimination Settlement: Stillwater School District to Pay $1.12 Million For Age Bias Against Class of Retired Employees " MINNEAPOLIS – Independent School District No. 834 of Stillwater, Minnesota (Stillwater School District), will pay more than $1 million to former school district employees under a consent judgment resolving an age bias lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced today."

Hurricane Season - Know Before You Go

Hurricane Season - Know Before You Go: "American citizens considering travel to storm-prone regions during Hurricane Season should carefully weigh the risks versus benefits of their trip before finalizing plans. Those who choose to travel should devise emergency plans in the event of a major storm. Even inland areas, well away from the coastline, can experience destructive winds, tornadoes, and floods from tropical storms and hurricanes. "

Decline in Apalachicola River Levels Greater than Previously Thought

Decline in Apalachicola River Levels Greater than Previously Thought: "Declines in water levels in the Apalachicola River in Florida´s panhandle occurred over the past 50 years as a result of erosion of the river channel and decreased spring and summer flow from upstream, according to a report released today by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). These declines are greater than previously thought and have caused drier conditions in wetland habitats in the adjacent river floodplain. Consequently, less water now moves into the hundreds of miles of floodplain streams, sloughs, and lakes that are essential to maintain healthy populations of fishes, mussels, and other aquatic life. "

FTC Halts Bogus Claims For “Fuel Saving” Device - Four Million Dollar Settlement Imposes Lifetime Ban on the Sale or Manufacture of Devices

FTC Halts Bogus Claims For “Fuel Saving” Device - Four Million Dollar Settlement Imposes Lifetime Ban on the Sale or Manufacture of Devices: "The manufacturer of a magnetic “fuel saving” and emissions-reduction device that did not save fuel or reduce emissions will pay $4.2 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that his advertising claims were false. The FTC will seek to provide redress to consumers who bought the device based on the false advertising claims. In addition, the defendants will be banned from selling or manufacturing magnetic fuel savings and emissions reduction devices."

Federal Court Bars Arizona Tax Preparer - Prepared Fraudulent Returns

Federal Court Bars Arizona Tax Preparer - Prepared Fraudulent Returns: "A federal judge in Phoenix has permanently barred Jeffrey R. Hunn, of Snowflake, Ariz. from preparing federal tax returns for others, the Justice Department announced today. U.S. District Court Judge Frederick J. Martone found that Hunn’s fraudulent tax return preparation had resulted in approximately $1.5 million in harm and potential harm to the federal Treasury."

Commercial Spam Messages Fraud Indictment - Company Sent Untraceable Bulk Email

Commercial Spam Messages Fraud Indictment - Company Sent Untraceable Bulk Email: "United States Attorney Carol C. Lam announced that on August 9, 2006, a federal grand jury sitting in San Diego handed up a three-count indictment charging Joshua Edward Eveloff and Michael Steven Twombly with conspiracy and fraud in connection with the generation of commercial electronic mail messages. The indictment alleges that Eveloff and Twombly engaged in the business of sending untraceable bulk unsolicited commercial electronic mail messages, commonly known as “spam messages,” over the Internet for profit. "

Schwarzenegger Signs Legislation to Complete Million Solar Roofs Plan

Schwarzenegger Signs Legislation to Complete Million Solar Roofs Plan: "Consumers who install solar panels on their homes and businesses can sell excess energy back to power companies for credit on their monthly bills. This credit is a key incentive for consumers to install solar panels. Currently, the cap on the number of customers who can use this option is .5 percent. SB 1 raises this to 2.5 percent. Raising the ceiling will provide part of the needed financial incentive to bring more solar power on to the grid. "

RIK(Royalty in Kind ) Crude Oil Sale Nets New Contracts - 8.5 million barrels have been sold to 7 companies

RIK(Royalty in Kind) Crude Oil Sale Nets New Contracts - 8.5 million barrels have been sold to 7 companies: "More than 8.5 million barrels of Royalty in Kind (RIK) crude oil from the Gulf of Mexico and Pacific Ocean have been sold to seven companies as part of an unrestricted sale conducted by the Department of the Interior’s Minerals Management Service (MMS). The contracts announced today, for a total of approximately 8,577,500 barrels of crude, or 47,000 barrels per day, are for six-month terms with delivery scheduled to begin October 1, 2006. The 8.5 million barrels of crude oil will convert to more than 350 million gallons of petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel fuel, heating oil, jet fuel, heavy fuel oil, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and other products."

NASA Announces Florida Hurricane-Research Media Briefing -

NASA Announces Florida Hurricane-Research Media Briefing -: "Media may observe a demonstration flight of the Aerosonde unmanned aerial system. This small, remotely piloted aircraft will make observations in hurricanes where the atmosphere meets the sea. It will gather data unobtainable by crewed aircraft due to safety risks. The aircraft will be controlled by satellite from NOAA's National Hurricane Center, Miami."

CMS ANNOUNCES GRANTS TO STATES TO EXPAND CARE OPTIONS FOR CHILDREN WITH MENTAL ILLNESS

CMS ANNOUNCES GRANTS TO STATES TO EXPAND CARE OPTIONS FOR CHILDREN WITH MENTAL ILLNESS: "Today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the availability of $218 million for up to 10 state Medicaid programs to provide community-based alternatives to Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRFT) for children. This funding opportunity is an integral piece of the President’s New Freedom Initiative and will allow young people who need psychiatric care to live at home while receiving that care. "

First images of hydrogen engine combustion captured

First images of hydrogen engine combustion captured: "Images of hydrogen combustion have been captured for the first time in an internal combustion engine operating at real-world speeds and loads by engineers at DOE's Argonne National Laboratory. This window into the inner workings of a hydrogen-powered engine is helping to optimize the engines for street use."

MEDICARE POSTS AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER TRANSPARENCY INFORMATION

MEDICARE POSTS AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER TRANSPARENCY INFORMATION: "To help consumers, providers, and payers make more informed health care decisions, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is making available Medicare payment information for 61 procedures performed in Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs). An ASC is an accredited, freestanding facility that operates exclusively for the purpose of providing surgical services to patients not requiring hospitalization. "

Census Announces St. George, Utah is the Fastest-growing Metro Area

Census Announces St. George, Utah is the Fastest-growing Metro Area: "The city slogan for St. George, Utah, is “Simply Gorgeous!” Many seem to agree because the former farming community nestled in the Rockies is the nation’s fastest-growing metro area between April 1, 2000, and July 1, 2005. Palm Coast, Fla. — located south of Jacksonville on the Atlantic Ocean — is the fastest-growing micro area."

New Law Revises Nonprofit Orgnanization Tax Rules

New Law Revises Nonprofit Orgnanization Tax Rules: "On August 17, the President signed the Pension Protection Act of 2006. The new law contains numerous changes to the tax law provisions affecting tax-exempt organizations. Key provisions include the following:"

Prostate Cancer Clinical Trial: Evaluate Risk Factors Which Predict the Transformation of Early Stage to Clinically Aggressive Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer Clinical Trial: Evaluate Risk Factors Which Predict the Transformation of Early Stage to Clinically Aggressive Prostate Cancer: "Environmental factors such as diet and cigarette smoking may play a role in predicting the progression of early stage prostate cancer to advance disease. The goal of this project is to establish an observational cohort of patients with early stage prostate cancer who elect not to undergo radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy to evaluate risk factors which predict the transformation of early stage to clinically aggressive disease."

Protecting Your Identity : The FBI Reports

Protecting Your Identity : The FBI Reports: "Identity theft occurs when someone becomes you. What’s the motivation for this surreptitious subrogation? Of course in most cases, it’s financial gain, but perpetrators also use false identities to get a job, to get healthcare, or to commit a different crime. "

DOJ Announces Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Campaign- one in seven child Internet users has received sexual solicitations

DOJ Announces Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Campaign : "The sexual victimization of children - including child pornography offenses and enticement crimes - is a widespread problem in the United States. The Internet continues to provide new avenues for child predators to contact and groom their victims. According to “Online Victimization of Youth: Five Years Later,” a Department of Justice study, one in seven child Internet users has received sexual solicitations, one in three has been exposed to unwanted sexual material and one in 11 has been harassed. Also according to the study one in three child Internet users had communicated with someone that they did not know in person and one in nine formed close relationships with someone they met online. "

HUD Charges Chicago Property Owners with Violating Fair Housing Act refused to rent one-bedroom apartment to a couple and their infant son

HUD Charges Chicago Property Owners with Violating Fair Housing Act refused to rent one-bedroom apartment to a couple and their infant son : "The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced today that it has charged Draper and Kramer, Inc., with violating the Fair Housing Act for refusing to rent an apartment to a family because the presence of the family's infant child would exceed Draper and Kramer's self-imposed occupancy limit. The Fair Housing Act makes it unlawful for a housing provider to discriminate because of children in the household, which includes placing unreasonable limitations on occupancy."

HUD CHARGES ILLINOIS LANDLORD WITH VIOLATING FAIR HOUSING ACT- Landlord owner refused accessible parking space to disabled woman

HUD CHARGES ILLINOIS LANDLORD WITH VIOLATING FAIR HOUSING ACT- Landlord owner refused accessible parking space to disabled woman: "The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced today that it has charged Georgina Estrada, a Schaumburg, Illinois, property owner, and her son, Martin Estrada, with violating the Fair Housing Act for refusing to provide an accessible parking space to a tenant with physical disabilities."

Effect of Revival Soy on Weight Loss and Skin, Hair, and Nails in Premenopausal Women

Effect of Revival Soy on Weight Loss and Skin, Hair, and Nails in Premenopausal Women: "The purpose of this study is to determine if dietary consumption of Revival Soy can improve the appearance of the skin, hair, and finger nails and support weight loss in overweight, premenopausal women. "

Effect of Revival Soy on Weight Loss and Skin, Hair, and Nails in Premenopausal Women

Effect of Revival Soy on Weight Loss and Skin, Hair, and Nails in Premenopausal Women: "The purpose of this study is to determine if dietary consumption of Revival Soy can improve the appearance of the skin, hair, and finger nails and support weight loss in overweight, premenopausal women. "

Draft Guidance on Improving Security of Home Computers : NIST Seeks Comments

Draft Guidance on Improving Security of Home Computers : NIST Seeks Comments: "The National Institute of Standards and Technology is looking for comments on new guidelines aimed at helping end-users, in particular telecommuting federal employees, improve the security of their personally owned desktop and laptop computers that run Windows XP Home Edition in a small office or home office environment. Like their larger office counterparts"

DOE Launches Web Site and Solicitation for Loan Guarantee Program

DOE Launches Web Site and Solicitation for Loan Guarantee Program: "DOE has launched a new Web site to support its $2 billion Loan Guarantee Program, which was announced on August 7th. The site includes a solicitation that was released on August 8th, calling for projects that support the President's Advanced Energy Initiative. Specifically, the solicitation requests proposals relating to biomass, hydrogen, hydropower, solar, and wind energy; hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles; and industrial energy efficiency."

Services Honor Pets Lost In Hurricanes

Services Honor Pets Lost In Hurricanes: "Friends and strangers joined together in New Orleans Sunday afternoon to show customary respect for their dearly departed. The honorees on this occasion were the beloved pets lost last summer to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Honorees were best friends, sole companions, and family members. God's creatures one and all. Furry four-legged cats and dogs as well as snakes, ferrets, pigs, and all other pets were properly mourned and celebrated with music provided by the Treme Brass Band and the Toryville Stompers."

NOAA ADDS FOUR NEW DART BUOYS TO THE U.S. TSUNAMI WARNING SYSTEM

NOAA ADDS FOUR NEW DART BUOYS TO THE U.S. TSUNAMI WARNING SYSTEM: "August 21, 2006 — NOAA completed a month-long cruise today aboard the R/V Blue Fin to install deep-ocean assessment and reporting of tsunami, or DART, buoy stations in Alaskan waters. The mission also included service and upgrades to two existing DART stations. The DART system provides real-time tsunami detection as waves travel across open waters. This deployment brings the total U.S. network to 19 DART II stations."

New DOT Rule Requires Automakers to Tell Consumers if New Vehicles Are Equipped with Event Data Recorders (EDR)

New DOT Rule Requires Automakers to Tell Consumers if New Vehicles Are Equipped with Event Data Recorders (EDR): "Automakers will be required, for the first time ever, to tell new car buyers if an Event Data Recorder (EDR) has been installed under a new rule issued today by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Event Data Recorders are electronic devices that capture crash data in the few seconds before, during and after a crash. EDRs do not capture any data unless there is a collision that is severe enough to cause the airbag to deploy. While automakers are not required to install EDRs, approximately 64 percent of the model year 2005 passenger vehicles came equipped with the device. This new rule will not require automakers to install EDRs if they are not already doing so."

Top 10 Tips to Help Parents Keep Costs Down On Back-To-School Supplies: California Schools Chief Jack O’Connell Offers Advice

Top 10 Tips to Help Parents Keep Costs Down On Back-To-School Supplies: California Schools Chief Jack O’Connell Offers Advice: "State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell today offered his top 10 tips to help parents save some of their hard-earned money while still adequately providing their children with school supplies for the start of the traditional school year. According to a National Retail Federation survey, the average family intends to spend about $527 this year for back-to-school supplies . "

FirstGov is First in Report's Ratings

FirstGov is First in Report's Ratings: "Washington DC – FirstGov.gov, the U.S. government’s official Web portal, has been named the top-ranked federal website in Brown University’s 7th annual report on State and Federal E-Government in the United States, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced today."

FEMA Weekly Recovery Information Update: Aid for New York Flooding Hits $85 Million

FEMA Weekly Recovery Information Update: Aid for New York Flooding Hits $85 Million: " With deadlines for New York State and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster aid less than three weeks away, State and federal officials intensify their public outreach to ensure New Yorkers affected by the June severe storms and floods receive all eligible disaster assistance available"

FEMA: Ready for 2006 Hurricane Season

FEMA: Ready for 2006 Hurricane Season: "FEMA approaches the 2006 hurricane season with a renewed sense of commitment, improvement and urgency, building on a solid foundation of experienced professionals and the lessons learned from last year’s unprecedented disaster response activities. The 2005 hurricane season tested our nation as never before, and we are committed to increasing our preparedness for catastrophic events and smaller-scale disasters. "

Travel Car Free in Santa Barbara and Save!

Travel Car Free in Santa Barbara and Save!: "Amtrak is a partner with the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District’s Santa Barbara Car Free program which encourages car free travel to the many sights and attractions that Santa Barbara and the surrounding region has to offer.
Register on the Santa Barbara Car Free website for a 20% discount for travel aboard Amtrak Pacific Surfliner and San Joaquins."

FONZ Recruiting Volunteers for National Zoo's Elephant House and Small Mammal House

FONZ Recruiting Volunteers for National Zoo's Elephant House and Small Mammal House: "Friends of the National Zoo (FONZ), the nonprofit support organization of the Smithsonian's National Zoo, is recruiting volunteers to serve as interpreters at the Zoo's Elephant House and Small Mammal House.
Exhibit interpreters play a critical role at the Zoo by engaging the Zoo's 2 to 3 million annual visitors, explaining the natural history and status of the Zoo's animals, raising awareness about efforts to conserve endangered species, and sharing animal artifacts, such as bones, feathers, and fur."

Gov. Schwarzenegger Highlights Work On Behalf of Minority-Owned and Small Businesses and Enterprise Zones

Gov. Schwarzenegger Highlights Work On Behalf of Minority-Owned and Small Businesses and Enterprise Zones

Male contraception: NESGel-1, To Evaluate Nestorone Gel in Combination With Testosterone Gel

Male contraception: NESGel-1, To Evaluate Nestorone Gel in Combination With Testosterone Gel: "The purpose of this study is to determine the usefulness of two transdermal gels to be used in the future development for a male contraceptive."

Kit for New Parents Order Fullfillment Contract Opportunity

Kit for New Parents Order Fullfillment Contract Opportunity: "This RFP is for the production and/or procurement of all components in the Kit. It includes the order, assembly and shipping of Kits to individuals and to our partners for a period of three (3) years. Since its inception, the Kit has been available in English and Spanish versions. Additional versions are being developed in Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese and Korean. All of these versions will be produced and disseminated in this agreement. The contractor will be provided with masters of the Kit components in each language, and the contractor will be responsible for producing and/or procuring Kit components in all designated languages."

Photography | Video Services Contract Opportunity - Bid Deadline September 6, 2006

Photography Video Services Contract Opportunity - Bid Deadline September 6, 2006: "CalPERS requires the services of video, multimedia, and production support firms to assist in the production or distribution of video and multimedia communication presentations"

Impact Of Viagra On Sexual Satisfaction Of Men With Mild Erectile Dysfunction Who Are Sexually Dissatisfied

Impact Of Viagra On Sexual Satisfaction Of Men With Mild Erectile Dysfunction Who Are Sexually Dissatisfied: "Men's quality of life (QoL) is potentially affected by mild erectile dysfunction (ED) to the same extent as it is by moderate and severe ED. This study will provide controlled clinical data measuring efficacy, QoL parameters and satisfaction changes in men with mild ED treated with Viagra versus those treated with a placebo. With an open-label extension, this study will also provide all study subjects the opportunity to receive the active drug treatment for 6 weeks."

State Farm Ins. to Implement Good Driver Reforms

State Farm Ins. to Implement Good Driver Reforms: "Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi today announced that State Farm Insurance, California’s largest auto insurer, has ended its battle against his Good Driver Reforms, and is seeking an 8% average reduction for its policyholders while simultaneously implementing the new regulations.
State Farm’s action means that most of its nearly 3 million policyholders will see an annual reduction in premium rates totaling $204 million. That amount, combined with earlier reductions by the Auto Club of Southern California and USAA Insurance, brings the dollar savings for consumers to nearly $370 million since the reforms were introduced last year. "

Leonard Announces Free Tax Seminar For Nonprofit And Exempt Organizations In Roseville Area

Leonard Announces Free Tax Seminar For Nonprofit And Exempt Organizations In Roseville Area: "Bill Leonard, Member of the California State Board of Equalization (BOE), and Assemblymember Tim Leslie are sponsoring a free one-day tax seminar to assist nonprofit and exempt organizations in Roseville and surrounding South Placer County. Leonard encourages those involved with nonprofit and exempt organizations to attend and learn how tax laws and reporting requirements affect their operations. Topics will include property taxes, employment taxes, sales taxes, and other relevant tax laws for nonprofit organizations. "

Tax Inspectors to Search for Unlicensed Retailers

Tax Inspectors to Search for Unlicensed Retailers: "Bay Area businesses will soon receive letters from the State Board of Equalization (BOE) informing them of upcoming site inspections through a pilot program beginning this month. A new team of inspectors will focus on San Francisco and San Mateo Counties to make sure stores are properly registered with a seller’s permit to collect and forward taxes to the State. "

Payday Loan Company Pays More Than $500,000 in Back Wages to 900 Workers

Payday Loan Company Pays More Than $500,000 in Back Wages to 900 Workers: "The U.S. Department of Labor announced today that Q.C. Financial Inc., a payday loan establishment that operates under the name of Quick Cash, has paid $519,088 in back wages to 900 employees to correct violations of the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The corporation is headquartered in Overland Park, Kan., and has numerous locations throughout the U.S. "

U.S. military Task Force to support flood victims in Ethiopia CJTF-HOA Public Affairs

U.S. military Task Force to support flood victims in Ethiopia CJTF-HOA Public Affairs: "CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti – A convoy of American Naval Engineers (also known as “Seabees”) traveled from Camp Lemonier, Djibouti to Dire Dawa, Ethiopia today to provide humanitarian relief assistance to the population affected by the recent flooding that has killed hundreds and left thousands without homes. "

New Law Expands IRA Options for Military; Many Can Still Contribute for 2004 and 2005

New Law Expands IRA Options for Military; Many Can Still Contribute for 2004 and 2005: "Members of the military serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and other combat zone localities can now put money into an individual retirement account, even if they received tax-free combat pay, according to the Internal Revenue Service. Under the Heroes Earned Retirement Opportunities (HERO) Act, signed into law on Memorial Day, taxpayers can now count tax-free combat pay when determining whether they qualify to contribute to either a Roth or traditional IRA. Before this change, members of the military whose earnings came entirely from tax-free combat pay were generally barred from using IRAs to save for retirement."

FEMA Grants $250,000 To Remove Building From Floodplain

FEMA Grants $250,000 To Remove Building From Floodplain: "PHILADELPHIA, Pa. -- The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today the approval of a grant totaling more than $250,000 for the acquisition and demolition of the Moore Building, a commercial structure located in the Beaver Pond Creek floodplain in the Town of Bluefield, Virginia."

Labor Day Weekend Camping in California Parks

Labor Day Weekend Camping in California Parks: "The following is a list of parks with camping availability during all or part of the Labor Day holiday weekend. Availability is subject to change. These sites usually fill-up by early Friday before a holiday weekend. If you are planning on camping at a first-come, first-served site, please allow for back-up plans if no sites are available."

IRS Begins Outreach to Entertainment Industry on Gift Bags Following Academy Agreement

IRS Begins Outreach to Entertainment Industry on Gift Bags Following Academy Agreement: "WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today the beginning of an outreach campaign to the entertainment industry regarding the taxability of gift bags and promotional items. The effort follows an agreement announced today between the tax agency and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences."

Chemotherapy Complications Greater Than Previously Estimated

Chemotherapy Complications Greater Than Previously Estimated: "Sixteen percent of women who underwent chemotherapy for breast cancer experienced serious adverse effects requiring emergency care or hospitalization, according to a new study supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)."

Update: AVIAN INFLUENZA Low Pathogenic H5N1 vs. Highly Pathogenic

Update: AVIAN INFLUENZA Low Pathogenic H5N1 vs. Highly Pathogenic: "There are two types of avian influenza (AI) that are identified as H5N1. A difference exists in the virus classification; one is low pathogenic (LPAI) and the other is highly pathogenic (HPAI). Pathogenicity refers to the ability of the virus to produce disease"

CAlifornia Announces Record-Shattering $274.4 Million in Court-Ordered Recoveries in Medi-Cal Fraud Cases

CAlifornia Announces Record-Shattering $274.4 Million in Court-Ordered Recoveries in Medi-Cal Fraud Cases: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced the state Department of Justice’s Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (BMFEA) in fiscal 2005-06 won a record-shattering $274.4 million in court-ordered recoveries of funds ripped off from the Medi-Cal program, continuing the BMFEA’s unmatched enforcement record during Lockyer’s tenure."

SRI LANKA Travel Warning for American Citizens

SRI LANKA Travel Warning for American Citizens: "This Travel Warning provides security information and alerts American citizens traveling to or living in the northern and eastern areas of Sri Lanka of the heightened potential for terrorist actions, including attacks against civilians. This situation is likely to continue for some time. Over the last several months, acts of terrorism including bombings and political assassinations have occurred in Sri Lanka."

Halting Human Trafficking: 31 Arrests in Major Prostitution Ring

Halting Human Trafficking: 31 Arrests in Major Prostitution Ring: "A 15-month investigation of a assive prostitution network based in New York and stretching from Rhode Island to Virginia culminated in the arrests Tuesday of 31 defendants in seven states and the District of Columbia, the FBI announced with officials from the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the New York City Police Department."

Two Southern Californians Allegedly Help Businesses Evade Tax

Two Southern Californians Allegedly Help Businesses Evade Tax: "The Justice Department announced today that it has sued two Southern Californians—David Clancy Jr. of Hacienda Heights and Jovita Arcaro of Rancho Cucamonga—seeking to block them from promoting two alleged tax scams. According to the government’s civil injunction complaint, filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, the two promote a scheme that helps businesses evade federal employment tax by disguising a portion of employees’ wages as other payments.

Scam Alert : Fraudulent E-Mail Claims to Be From the FDIC

Scam Alert : Fraudulent E-Mail Claims to Be From the FDIC: "The FDIC is aware of a phishing e-mail that has the appearance of being sent from the FDIC. The name 'Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation' appears on the 'From' line and the subject is, 'IMPORTANT: Notification of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.'"

NTIA Awards Contract for Management of Key Internet Functions of Domain Names to ICANN

NTIA Awards Contract for Management of Key Internet Functions of Domain Names to ICANN: "The Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration today announced the award of a sole source contract to ICANN to perform technical functions supporting the Internet Domain Name system. "

Update:Public Exploit Code Being Used to Actively Exploit a Vulnerability in Microsoft Server Service

Update:Public Exploit Code Being Used to Actively Exploit a Vulnerability in Microsoft Server Service: "In addition to the previously reported active exploitation of a vulnerability in Microsoft Server Service, US-CERT has received reports of automated attacks and bot activity involving systems that have not been patched against this vulnerability. Successful exploitation could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges"

The Role of Vitamins E and C in Maintaining Lung Health in People With Asthma

The Role of Vitamins E and C in Maintaining Lung Health in People With Asthma: "This study will determine if airway antioxidant levels in allergic asthmatics are enhanced with a combination of vitamin E and vitamin C therapy."

Memory Aid for Informed Consent in Alzheimer's Research

Memory Aid for Informed Consent in Alzheimer's Research: "The purpose of this trial is to test whether a memory and organizational aid in the form of a document that summarizes and simplifies a study's key points can improve the decision-making abilities and competency of mild to early moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. "

Grants Manager Posititon for Museum of Latin American Art

Grants Manager Posititon for Museum of Latin American Art: "MoLAA’s Grants Manager is responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive plan to maximize income from government and private foundations through competitive grants. This position offers a generous benefit package, including paid holidays, health, dental insurance, and 401k plan. Salary DOE"

New contract negotiated with California Law Enforcement Employees

New contract negotiated with California Law Enforcement Employees: "State negotiators have reached an agreement with CAUSE – Statewide Law Enforcement Assn. (bargaining unit 7) to revise and extend their current contract until June 30, 2008. In addition to pension and health benefit changes sought by the Administration, the new contract will aid recruitment of State park rangers, fish and game wardens, special agents, and public safety dispatchers, where salary lags have led to vacancy rates of 18 to 30 percent. "

A Science or Engineering Bachelor's Degree Is Good for You

A Science or Engineering Bachelor's Degree Is Good for You: "Earning a bachelor's degree in science or engineering (S&E) appears to serve the recipient well in the workforce, regardless of the job they do. In fact, according to a National Science Foundation (NSF) survey, people who have earned an S&E bachelor's degree generally report that science and engineering knowledge is important to their job"

FEMA to Host Emergency Management Meeting with New England Adjutant Generals

FEMA to Host Emergency Management Meeting with New England Adjutant Generals: "In the first meeting of its kind, Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host a meeting of all six New England Adjutant Generals to discuss the regions emergency preparedness and plans for all-hazards response. In addition to the Adjutant Generals, The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), 5th Army, and NOAA will be represented and discuss their roles and activities regarding emergency management."

New Findings Offer More Complete View of Breast Cancer Gene Mutations in U.S. Population

New Findings Offer More Complete View of Breast Cancer Gene Mutations in U.S. Population: "A large study funded by the National Institutes of Health today provided the clearest picture yet of the prevalence in the U.S. population of mutations in two genes associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. The genes are called Breast Cancer 1 (BRCA1) and Breast Cancer 2 (BRCA2). In addition, the study identified key predictors for assessing which women are most likely to carry these genetic mutations. "

New SAMHSA Publication: Substance Abuse Treatment Guide for Cocaine or methamphetamine Abuse

New SAMHSA Publication: Substance Abuse Treatment Guide for Cocaine or Methamphetamine Abuse: "A structured approach for treating adults who abuse or are dependent on methamphetamine or cocaine is outlined in the new publications package Matrix Intensive Outpatient Treatment for People with Stimulant Use Disorders (IOP) released today by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)."

Recall Alert: 2.7 million Dell Notebook Computer Batteries Recalled

Recall Alert: 2.7 Million Dell Notebook Computer Batteries Recalled: "Dell has received six reports of batteries overheating, resulting in property damage to furniture and personal effects. No injuries have been reported. The recalled batteries were sold with or sold separately to be used with the following Dell notebook computers: Latitude™ D410, D500, D505, D510, D520, D600, D610, D620, D800, D810; Inspiron™ 6000, 8500, 8600, 9100, 9200, 9300, 500m, 510m, 600m, 6400, E1505, 700m, 710m, 9400, E1705; Dell Precision™ M20, M60, M70 and M90 mobile workstations; and
XPS,™ XPS Gen2, XPS M170 and XPS M1710. "

Attorney General Announces New Web Site for Veterans and Members of the Armed Services

Attorney General Announces New Web Site for Veterans and Members of the Armed Services: "Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales today announced the launch of a new Web site designed to safeguard the civilian employment rights, voting rights and financial security of members of the Armed Services and veterans. The Web site, http://www.servicemembers.gov is a partnership between the Justice Department and other federal agencies that oversee these protections."

New E-Scam: Scam Preying On Americans’ Emotions For U.S. Deployed Soldiers

New E-Scam: Scam Preying On Americans’ Emotions For U.S. Deployed Soldiers: "The FBI has received reports concerning multiple e-mail hoaxes claiming to be from a soldier deployed to Iraq. The individual claims to possess millions of dollars and requests assistance in moving the funds. The funds allegedly came from a soldier who was an orphan and recently died while on a mission in Iraq. The individual claims he needs assistance donating the funds to an American orphanage."

Agency Awards $3.7 Million Contract to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned

Agency Awards $3.7 Million Contract to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned: "Under the terms of the award to SMS, all laptop computers across the entire VA system will be the first to receive critical data security encryption programs followed by desktop PCs. Portable media, like flash drives and CDs, are also included in the security encryption program."

Halloween “Mansion After Dark” Event at Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park

Halloween “Mansion After Dark” Event at Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park: "See the Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park in a whole new light...Lights Out! This unique Halloween “Mansion After Dark” event will highlight the families who lived at the mansion. For a “Lights Out” adventure, be prepared for bats, great pumpkins, coffins and Halloween ghost tales in the dark."

CalOHI Hosting WEDI Audiocast: Security & Privacy Issues Impacting the Electronic Health Record (EHR)

CalOHI Hosting WEDI Audiocast: Security & Privacy Issues Impacting the Electronic Health Record (EHR): "There are many barriers to implementing an EHR, including regulations from the paper medical record era; the anti-kick back statute; the Stark anti-referral rule; malpractice concerns; HIPAA's privacy and security regulations; and in some contexts, the anti-trust law. This audiocast will outline the pluses and minuses that other federal laws and regulations bring to the EHR environment."

Pharmacy Providers: Emergency MMA Drug Supply Update -View changes to the Emergency Drug Benefit for dual eligibles effective September 2006

Pharmacy Providers: Emergency MMA Drug Supply Update -View changes to the Emergency Drug Benefit for dual eligibles effective September 2006: "Effective September 15, 2006, the California Department of Health Services (CDHS) will no longer pay for claims to the Emergency Drug Benefit (EDB) with dates of service prior to May 17, 2006."

California State of Emergency Employers affected by Wildfires Notice

California State of Emergency Employers affected by Wildfires Notice: "Employers in San Bernardino County who were directly affected by the wildfires may request up to a 60-day extension of time from EDD to file their State payroll reports and deposit State payroll taxes without penalty or interest. This extension, applicable only to the second and third quarters of 2006, may be granted under Section 1111.5 of the California Unemployment Insurance Code (CUIC). Written requests for extension must be received with a postmark date of September 11, 2006, or earlier. "

5th Annual Security Awareness Fair Presentations Now Available

5th Annual Security Awareness Fair Presentations Now Available - Presentations include Database Attacks, How to Protect the Corporate Assets, Theft Identity & Access Management, Spyware Update and Wireless Vulnerabilities and Exploits.

Report Warns Of More Frequent Coastal Flooding And Rising Sea Levels

Report Warns of More Frequent Coastal Flooding and Rising Sea Levels: "The California Climate Action Team has released a summary report of 17 scientific studies examining the potential impacts of climate change on California. Officials discussed the report, the science and what the state is doing to take action on reducing heat-trapping gases that threaten to cause more frequent coastal floods, rising sea levels, beach erosion and disruptions to wetlands. The presentation was held at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. "

Notice of Pending Liquidation to Holders of Common Stock

Notice of Pending Liquidation to Holders of Common Stock: "The Benj. Franklin Federal Savings and Loan Association (Benj. Franklin) of Portland, Oregon was closed by the Resolution Trust Corporation on September 7, 1990. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has been serving as successor receiver (the “FDIC”) for Benj. Franklin since January 1, 1996. Pursuant to applicable federal law, 12 U.S.C. Section 1821 (d) (11) (v), the FDIC shall pay surplus funds in the receivership to shareholders of Benj. Franklin after payment of all creditors and the administrative expenses of the receivership"

Dept. of Homeland Security Adjusts Threat Level from Red to Orange For In-Bound Flights from the UK

Dept. of Homeland Security Adjusts Threat Level from Red to Orange For In-Bound Flights from the UK: "Effective immediately, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced an adjustment in the aviation threat level from RED to ORANGE for flights from the United Kingdom to the United States. There will not be any operational changes for domestic flights in the United States. Thus, the U.S. threat level remains at ORANGE, or ‘High,’ for all domestic and international flights. The ban on liquids and gels in carry on baggage remains in full effect. "

Toyota Tundra Recall

Toyota Tundra 2006 Recall: "Certain CK Motorsports Combination Headlights, Clear Corner, Bumper, And Side Marker Lights Sold As Replacement Lamps For Use On The Passenger Vehicles. Some Combination Lamps That Are Not Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail To Conform To Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, And Associated Equipment."

Free Online CEU, CNE and CME: HIV Risk Reduction Strategies for Health Care

Free Online CEU, CNE and CME: HIV Risk Reduction Strategies for Health Care: "Viewers can expect to be able to discuss evidence-based behavioral interventions and ongoing research for HIV prevention with persons living with HIV (PLWH), describe examples of interventions, and identify opportunities and methods for providers to link PLWH to local HIV prevention "

Free CEU, CNE: Incorporating HIV Prevention into the Medical Care of Persons Living with HIV (CD-ROM

Free CEU, CNE: Incorporating HIV Prevention into the Medical Care of Persons Living with HIV (CD-ROM: "This program discusses the rationale for providing HIV prevention in medical care settings and describes the key components of Recommendations for Incorporating HIV Prevention into the Medical Care of persons living with HIV. "

Identity Theft: 10 Simple Steps to Minimize Your Risk

Identity Theft: 10 Simple Steps to Minimize Your Risk: "More than 88 million data records of U.S. residents have been exposed due to security breaches since February 2005. Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in the country and the key to protecting yourself is constant awareness of your personal information and your rights"

Teens and Money Free CD-ROM Toolkit

Teens and Money Free CD-ROM Toolkit: "How many times have you talked to your teen or college student about saving money from his summer job? Making her own car insurance payments? Getting a credit card? The older your children get, the more they have to deal with real-world challenges like these. Help them get ready for adult life with the free Teens and Money package from Wells Fargo, the Missouri Insurance Education Foundation, and the Federal Citizen Information Center."

Internet-Based Program Can Help Women with Eating Disorders

Internet-Based Program Can Help Women with Eating Disorders: "Young women who suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia or binge eating disorder often develop their eating disorder around the time they begin college. A new study has found that an eight-week, Internet-based intervention may help college-age women at risk"

Minority Business Development Agency Pre-Application Conference

Minority Business Development Agency Pre-Application Conference: "The Minority Business Development Agency is soliciting operators for its Minority Business Enterprise Center (MBEC) Program in 28 locations nationally. A general notice was published in the Federal Register on Wednesday, July 26, 2006 and also in www.Grants.gov. under CFDA 11.800"

OPM Launches Television Government Job Recruitment -Ads Encourage Americans to Consider Careers in Federal Government

OPM Launches Television Government Job Recruitment -Ads Encourage Americans to Consider Careers in Federal Government: "'We currently have more than 22,000 openings throughout the Federal government, and we need talented, dedicated Americans to come and make a difference,' Springer said. 'Regardless of your professional background, the Federal government has a career opportunity for you.'"

Legal Advice Available for New Yorkers Affected by the June Flooding

Legal Advice Available for New Yorkers Affected by the June Flooding: "Federal and State officials announce that free legal advice and referrals are available for low-income individuals affected by the June flooding. The American Bar Association's (ABA 's) Young Lawyers Division (YLD), which is made up of attorneys who volunteer their time and knowledge, can offer advice on issues involving landlord-tenant problems, disaster-related contract matters, insurance, replacement of legal documents, counseling on mortgage foreclosure, and a number of other concerns. "

Depression Treatment: :Experimental Medication Stops Depression in Hours

Depression Treatment: :Experimental Medication Stops Depression in Hours: "Current antidepressants usually take four to eight weeks to exert their effects. In a preliminary new study, a single intravenous dose of ketamine, a medication usually used in higher doses as an anesthetic, brought symptom relief to people with treatment-resistant depression in as little as two hours. "

Cal Boating to Host Boating Safety Education Workshop August 17

Cal Boating to Host Boating Safety Education Workshop August 17: "The Department of Boating and Waterways (Cal Boating) will host a stakeholder workshop August 17 in Sacramento to discuss a potential law requiring boaters to take a safety course. This is the second of two meetings hosted by Cal Boating to evaluate boater interest in developing a boat operator education requirement in California. "

Chinese herbal supplements: Repeat Offenders Banned From Claiming Products Treat or Cure Diseases

Chinese herbal supplements: Repeat Offenders Banned From Claiming Products Treat or Cure Diseases: "An operation selling Chinese herbal supplements is banned from claiming its products treat or cure diseases, to settle Federal Trade Commission charges it violated a previous court order. The FTC alleged the sellers of Dia-Cope, a pill claimed to prevent, treat, and cure diabetes, violated the order by misrepresenting the health benefits of their product and misrepresenting that clinical trials proved their claims. The defendants will give up their ill-gotten gains – all of the assets they received from the sale of Dia-Cope."

Update: New Travel Guidelines for Airline Passengers

Update: New Travel Guidelines for Airline Passengers: "The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is implementing a series of security measures, some visible and some not visible, to ensure the security of the traveling public and the nation's transportation system"

Trends in HIV-Related Risk Behaviors Among High School Students --- United States, 1991--2005

Trends in HIV-Related Risk Behaviors Among High School Students --- United States, 1991--2005: "Young persons who engage in unprotected sexual intercourse or use injection drugs are at increased risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. To examine changes in HIV-related risk behavior among high school students in the United States during 1991--2005, CDC analyzed data from eight national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys (YRBS) conducted during that period. "

California Auto Insurers Must Now Base Rates Primarily on How Safely You Drive, and Not Where You Live

California Auto Insurers Must Now Base Rates Primarily on How Safely You Drive, and Not Where You Live: "Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi on Thursday praised a judge’s decision to reject the insurance industry’s challenge to his Good Driver Auto Insurance Reforms. “This is a great victory for California voters and good drivers wherever they live,” said the Commissioner. “It means that Californians will finally realize the benefits of Proposition 103, which they approved more than 17 years go.” "

Clinical Trial: Reducing Craving for Alcohol and Drinking using Naltrexone and/or Ondansetron

Clinical Trial: Reducing Craving for Alcohol and Drinking using Naltrexone and/or Ondansetron: "The purpose of this study is to determine whether naltrexone (an opiate blocking agent approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence), ondansetron a serotonin 3 antagonist medication approved to treat nausea) or their combination are effective in the reduction of alcohol craving and drinking compared to placebo."

Don’t Gamble on Foreign Lotteries - The FBI reports

Don’t Gamble on Foreign Lotteries - The FBI reports: "“Congratulations! You may receive a certified check for up to $400,000,000 U.S. CASH! One Lump sum! Tax Free! Your odds to WIN are 1-6. Hundreds of U.S. citizens win every week using our secret system! You can win as much as you want!”"

Celebrating singles: Unmarried and Single Americans Week, Sept. 17-23, 2006

Celebrating singles: Unmarried and Single Americans Week, Sept. 17-23, 2006: " Thereare 89.8 million unmarried and single Americans ( 2005 data). This group comprised 41 percent of all U.S. residents age 18 and older. 54% percentage of unmarried and single Americans are women. 60% e of unmarried and single Americans who have never been married."

Celebrating singles: Unmarried and Single Americans Week, Sept. 17-23, 2006

Celebrating singles: Unmarried and Single Americans Week, Sept. 17-23, 2006: " Thereare 89.8 million unmarried and single Americans ( 2005 data). This group comprised 41 percent of all U.S. residents age 18 and older. 54% percentage of unmarried and single Americans are women. 60% e of unmarried and single Americans who have never been married."

Court Order Shuts Door on Advance-Fee Credit Card Fraudsters

Court Order Shuts Door on Advance-Fee Credit Card Fraudsters: "Under the terms of a U.S. district court judgment and order announced today, two defendants in an FTC cross-border telemarketing fraud case have been barred from engaging in deceptive marketing in the future and will pay $15,000 for consumer redress."

Underage Binge Drinking Lowest in Areas of D.C., Detroit, Los Angeles, Utah, Tennessee, Maryland; Highest in Parts of ...

Underage Binge Drinking Lowest in Areas of D.C., Detroit, Los Angeles, Utah, Tennessee, Maryland; Highest in Parts of North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Rhode Island, Wisconsin: "
A report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) estimates that three areas in Washington, D.C.; Prince Georges County and Baltimore City, Md.; Detroit; Wilmington, Del.; Los Angeles County; two areas of Utah; Shelby County and central Tennessee; and parts of Mississippi, Florida, and Georgia have some of the lowest rates of underage binge drinking in the country. The highest rates of underage binge drinking occurred in Washington, D.C.’s Ward 3, Western Wisconsin, four regions of North Dakota, three regions of South Dakota, three areas of Montana, Washington, Bristol and Newport counties, R.I., and part of Wyoming."

The NSDUH Report: Alcohol Dependence or Abuse in Substate Areas

The NSDUH Report: Alcohol Dependence or Abuse in Substate Areas: "In 2002 to 2004, past month alcohol dependence or abuse varied from a low of 5.4% in Southern Utah and in North Central Florida to a high of 13.5% in South Central Wyoming. "

Hud Launches Review Of Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac Investments

Hud Launches Review Of Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac Investments: "WASHINGTON – The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced today that it has scheduled separate meetings this week with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to launch its comprehensive review and evaluation of their investment activities. As part of the review process, each will be required to compile and submit accounting data as specified by HUD."

How to Defend Cell Phones and PDAs Against Attack

How to Defend Cell Phones and PDAs Against Attack: "As cell phones and PDAs become more technologically advanced, attackers are finding new ways to target victims. By using text messaging or email, an attacker could lure you to a malicious site or convince you to install malicious code on your portable device. "

U.S. Population to Hit 300 Million in 2006 - Census Releases Statistics on U.S. Population

U.S. Population to Hit 300 Million in 2006 - Census Releases Statistics on U.S. Population: "Our nation’s population is expected to reach 300 million the later part of this year. To help spotlight this occasion, the Census Bureau steps back in time by comparing contemporary life and statistics to those in the time periods in which the nation reached other noteworthy population milestones in 1967 (when the population reached 200 million) and in the year 1915 (when it reached 100 million). America, how you have grown and changed."