SAMHSA and Ad Council Launch New Ads to Offer Mental Health Services to Hurricane Survivors

SAMHSA and Ad Council Launch New Ads to Offer Mental Health Services to Hurricane Survivors: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Ad Council today launched a series of new national public service print and billboard ads to encourage individuals who may be experiencing psychological distress from last year’s hurricanes to seek mental health services. The PSAs, the latest ads created for the Hurricane Mental Health Awareness Campaign, are being distributed to media outlets nationwide this week to coincide with the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina"

EEOC Settles Sex And Race Suit Against S & Z Tool & Die - $940,000 Settlement To Be Shared Among Class of African Americans and Women Denied Hire

EEOC Settles Sex And Race Suit Against S & Z Tool & Die - $940,000 Settlement To Be Shared Among Class of African Americans and Women Denied Hire: "The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced Friday that it had resolved its lawsuit charging that S & Z Tool & Die Co. discriminated against African American and female applicants in hiring due to their race and sex."

Helping Teens Get Good Grades in Money Management: A How-To Guide from the FDIC

Helping Teens Get Good Grades in Money Management: A How-To Guide from the FDIC: "For teens, saving money may not be as much fun as spending it, but putting dollars aside for their future and learning how to be smart consumers are still important things to do. Teens have access to more money than ever before thanks to allowances, gifts and, for many, income from jobs. Teens also are becoming more responsible for making decisions about everything from small, everyday purchases to saving for college or a car. That's why the latest issue of FDIC Consumer News, published by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, is a special guide to help teens (and many pre-teens) learn how to make good decisions about their money, right from the start. Although the new guide is written for teens, it also can be used by parents and teachers to help them talk about money management with young people."

Justice Department Seeks to Bar Former Jackson Hewitt

Justice Department Seeks to Bar Former Jackson Hewitt: "Civil Suit Alleges California Tax Firm Manager Prepared Returns Claiming False Tax Exemptions During 2005 Tax Filing Season"

Free Asbestos Medical Screening Offered to Workers and Their Families Exposed to Asbestos at former Zonolite|W.R. Grace site in Hamilton, New Jersey

Free Asbestos Medical Screening Offered to Workers and Their Families Exposed to Asbestos at former ZonoliteW.R. Grace site in Hamilton, New Jersey: "ATLANTA – The federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) will offer free medical screening to former workers who might be at risk for past exposure to asbestos during their employment at the former Zonolite/W.R. Grace site in Hamilton, New Jersey from 1948 to 1991."

OSHA Adds Flexography Module to Printing Industry Ergonomics

OSHA Adds Flexography Module to Printing Industry Ergonomics: "WASHINGTON -- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) today launched a new Flexography Module as part of its interactive web-based training tool Ergonomics in the Printing Industry eTool. The module and the eTool are products of the agency's Alliance with the Graphic Arts Coalition."

Start Smart: Money Management for Teens

Start Smart: Money Management for Teens - " Saving money may not be as much fun as spending money, but it's still important to do. When you save your money, you can use it later to buy fun things (DVDs, video games, clothes) as well as pay for serious things like college or a car. FDIC Consumer News, published by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, has produced this guide to help teens get good grades in money management."

NOAA Unveils Hurricane Katrina Web Site Capturing The Storm’s Power And Aftermath

NOAA Unveils Hurricane Katrina Web Site Capturing The Storm’s Power And Aftermath: " A year to the day after Hurricane Katrina became the most destructive hurricane ever to strike the United States, NOAA launched a new Web site detailing the development of the storm, its power and destruction. The site also highlights NOAA’s multi-faceted response to the storm’s aftermath, including floods, testing fisheries, clearing waterways, identifying and cleaning up oil spills. In addition, there are dozens of photos and satellite images that capture Hurricane Katrina’s march into the Gulf of Mexico and its subsequent landfall on the U.S. Gulf Coast"

Foreclosures of Subprime Mortgages in Chicago: Analyzing the Role of Predatory Lending Practices," by Morgan Rose.

Foreclosures of Subprime Mortgages in Chicago: Analyzing the Role of Predatory Lending Practices," by Morgan Rose.: " dramatic rise in subprime foreclosures over the past several years has led to calls for restrictions of, or prohibitions against, a range of lending practices loosely termed 'predatory.' Several cities and states have enacted legislation or regulations aimed at eliminating predatory practices, and some advocacy groups have endorsed action nationally. This working paper uses data from the Chicago metropolitan area to examine the impact of two frequently cited predatory lending practices, long prepayment penalty periods and balloon payments, on the probability of foreclosure on subprime refinance and home purchase mortgages."

New Identity Theft Legislation:Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Legislation to Help Law Enforcement Track, Fight Identity Theft

New Identity Theft Legislation:Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Legislation to Help Law Enforcement Track, Fight Identity Theft - Governor Schwarzenegger has signed SB 1390 by Senator Poochigian (R-Fresno) that will help law enforcement agencies spot trends of identity theft and more effectively combat the growing crime.

Procedures for Submitting Amendments/Corrections to Trademark Applications After Publication

Procedures for Submitting Amendments/Corrections to Trademark Applications After Publication To improve the tracking and disposition of amendments and requests for corrections to trademark applications submitted after publication, the Office is providing the following recommended procedures. Once an application has been “approved for publication” by the examining attorney, all amendments and requests for corrections are processed as amendments/corrections after publication.

FEMA Prepares For Tropical Storm Ernesto Landfall

FEMA Prepares For Tropical Storm Ernesto Landfall: "The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is ready and supporting state officials as they prepare for Tropical Storm Ernesto, the fifth named storm of the 2006 hurricane season. FEMA continues to closely monitor the storm with the Hurricane Liaison Team at the National Hurricane Center and is coordinating with state and local officials as they make decisions for their communities on evacuations and response activities. "

VA Employee Admits Violating Hatch Act

VA Employee Admits Violating Hatch Act: "The U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) has settled a complaint for disciplinary action against Eric Foster, a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employee in Columbus, Ohio, for violating the Hatch Act. "

Prudential to Pay $600 Million in Global Settlement of Fraud Charges in Connection With Deceptive Market Timing of Mutual Funds

Prudential to Pay $600 Million in Global Settlement of Fraud Charges in Connection With Deceptive Market Timing of Mutual Funds: "Commission Also Charges Four Individuals with Fraud- PEG has been ordered to pay a total of $600 million pursuant to a global civil and criminal settlement with the United States Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts, the Commission, the Massachusetts Securities Division, NASD, the New Jersey Bureau of Securities, the New York Attorney General's Office and the New York Stock Exchange. "

Starting a Business in DC? Let the Online Resource Center Guide You Through the Process

Starting a Business in DC? Let the Online Resource Center Guide You Through the Process: "Resources and How to Guides for starting a business in Washington DC"

Adoption Scams Bilk Victims, Break Hearts - The FBI Reports

Adoption Scams Bilk Victims, Break Hearts - The FBI Reports: "The couples all had their hearts set on adopting a child. They were eventually introduced to an Indiana woman who agreed to provide a healthy baby from Russia…for a price. They started to get excited when they saw a picture of their promised child for the first time. Then, they anxiously waited for the day when they could finally meet the new member of their family. "

Army Engineers Make Preparations for Ernesto

Army Engineers Make Preparations for Ernesto: "WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Aug. 28, 2006) – In anticipation of Hurricane Ernesto making landfall along the gulf coast, the South Atlantic Division of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is preparing to support the Federal Emergency Management Agency and hurricane response operations."

Governor Schwarzenegger Reaches Agreement to Provide Significant Prescription Drug Discounts to Millions of Uninsured Californians

Governor Schwarzenegger Reaches Agreement to Provide Significant Prescription Drug Discounts to Millions of Uninsured Californians: "Recognizing that bringing down the costs of prescription drugs is a component to addressing overall health care affordability, Governor Schwarzenegger today announced a deal with lawmakers to bring down the costs of medications for millions of uninsured Californians"

New Study Seeks to Lower Diabetes Risk in Youth

New Study Seeks to Lower Diabetes Risk in Youth: "The HEALTHY study will determine if changes in school food services and physical education (PE) classes, along with activities that encourage healthy behaviors, lower risk factors for type 2 diabetes, an increasingly common disease in youth."

Clandestine Drug Labs: potential health and environmental dangers of chemicals found in meth labs

Clandestine Drug Labs: potential health and environmental dangers of chemicals found in meth labs: "The clandestine synthesis of methamphetamine (meth) and other illegal drugs is a growing public health and environmental concern. For every pound of meth synthesized there are six or more pounds of hazardous materials or chemicals produced. These are often left on the premises, dumped down local septic systems, or illegally dumped in backyards, open spaces, in ditches along roadways or down municipal sewer systems"

New York Flood Aid Tops $98 Million, Registration Deadlines Extended To October 2

New York Flood Aid Tops $98 Million, Registration Deadlines Extended To October 2: "ALBANY, N.Y. -- State and federal emergency management officials remind New Yorkers that the registration deadlines for all state and federal assistance have been extended. October 2, 2006 is the new deadline for all programs. Families, individuals, and business owners who were adversely affected by the late June severe storms and flooding have received more than $98.9 million in assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration, and the State of New York."

CAlifornia Issues Cease and Desist Warning to Geneva World Banc

CAlifornia Issues Cease and Desist Warning to Geneva World Banc: "A warning to cease and desist from doing business in California without a license from the Commissioner of Financial Institutions was issued to Geneva World Banc, 34145 Pacific Coast Highway, #338, Dana Point, California 92629. "

Chiang Sponsors San Gabriel Valley Small Business Fair

Chiang Sponsors San Gabriel Valley Small Business Fair: "John Chiang, Chairman of the State Board of Equalization (BOE), is presenting a free one-day event in San Gabriel to help small business owners understand and comply with tax laws. Small business owners are encouraged to attend and bring their questions about tax laws and regulations. On hand to assist attendees will be representatives from the Board of Equalization, Franchise Tax Board, Employment Development Department, Internal Revenue Service, the Small Business Administration and a number of other local organizations that support small business."

Chiang Sponsors San Gabriel Valley Small Business Fair

Chiang Sponsors San Gabriel Valley Small Business Fair: "John Chiang, Chairman of the State Board of Equalization (BOE), is presenting a free one-day event in San Gabriel to help small business owners understand and comply with tax laws. Small business owners are encouraged to attend and bring their questions about tax laws and regulations. On hand to assist attendees will be representatives from the Board of Equalization, Franchise Tax Board, Employment Development Department, Internal Revenue Service, the Small Business Administration and a number of other local organizations that support small business."

Earn Free 8-Hour CEU: Accounting and Accountability: A Forum on Ethics and Professional Responsibility

Earn Free 8-Hour CEU: Accounting and Accountability: A Forum on Ethics and Professional Responsibility: "The California Board of Accountancy presents a Free 8-Hour CE Forum
Accounting & Accountability: A Forum on Ethics and Professional Responsibility"

Stop Smoking Therapy for Ontario Patients

Stop Smoking Therapy for Ontario Patients: "20% of Ontarians smoke. There was a decline in smoking prevalence from 1995 but it has remained unchanged since 2002. This rate of smoking cessation has not kept up with the rest of Canada. A new strategy is necessary to increase the number of smokers making quit attempts and to increase the odds of quitting long term.The goal of this study is to evaluate the methods and effectiveness of providing nicotine replacement (NRT) to Ontario smokers."

NIDA Community Drug Alert Bulletin: Club Drugs

NIDA Community Drug Alert Bulletin: Club Drugs: "This publication will alert communities to the fact that steroid abuse is a growing problem among adolescents, and to the dangers of steroid abuse. There is increasing concern about the use of steroids and NIDA is in a prime position to provide research-based information. NIDA wishes to inform the public about attempts being made to control steroid abuse, and make the public aware that the Institute is a resource for further information about the problem"

Consumers Warned Against Eating Raw, Imported Crabs

Consumers Warned Against Eating Raw, Imported Crabs: "With the recent identification of an unusual lung infection in two Orange County residents caused by a parasite found in raw, imported, freshwater crabs, State Public Health Officer Dr. Mark Horton today warned consumers that eating raw or undercooked freshwater crabs can cause serious illness. 'Eating raw or undercooked freshwater crabs or crayfish can lead to Lungfluke infection, a serious illness caused by the parasite Paragonimus,' said Horton. 'Do not eat raw or undercooked freshwater crabs or crayfish.'"

The decline of Drug Abuse Among Adolescents aged 12 to 17

The Decline of Drug Abuse Among Adolescents aged 12 to 17: "Nonmedical use of prescription pain relievers was the drug category with the largest number of new users in the 12 months prior to the survey—2.4 million—compared with 2.1 million for marijuana, 1.2 million for nonmedical use of tranquilizers, and 1.0 million for cocaine. Marijuana continued to be the most commonly used illicit drug in 2004, with a rate of 6.1 percent (14.6 million past-month users) for the U.S. population aged 12 and older."

IRS Announces Additional Postponement of Filing and Payment Deadline for Businesses in the Gulf Coast

IRS Announces Additional Postponement of Filing and Payment Deadline for Businesses in the Gulf Coast

Treatment of Depressive Syndrome in Alzheimer’s Disease,

Treatment of Depressive Syndrome in Alzheimer’s Disease,: "The goal of the study is to compare the effectiveness of the active (S)-enantiomer of citalopram, escitalopram with placebo in the treatment of patients with depressive syndrome complicating Alzheimer’s dementia (AD)."

More Than 11 Million College Students Receive Financial Aid

More Than 11 Million College Students Receive Financial Aid: "About 11.2 million college students, or more than half, received some form of financial aid from outside their families to help pay for their education, according to tabulations released today by the U.S. Census Bureau."

IRS Announces Additional Postponement of Filing and Payment Deadline for Businesses in the Gulf Coast

IRS Announces Additional Postponement of Filing and Payment Deadline for Businesses in the Gulf Coast: "As part of the continuing effort to assist victims of Hurricane Katrina, the Internal Revenue Service will grant to businesses in the Gulf Coast an additional postponement of filing and payment requirements. The deadline will be Oct. 16, 2006, which is the same deadline established earlier for certain individual income tax return filers"

IRS Private Debt Collection Resources

IRS Private Debt Collection Resources: "This page contains information pertaining to the Private Debt Collection initiative. The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 authorized the IRS to contract with private firms to collect some outstanding tax debts. As the IRS moves forward with this project, it is taking steps to safeguard taxpayer rights and protect the privacy of taxpayer information."

IRS Private Debt Collection Resources

IRS Private Debt Collection Resources: "This page contains information pertaining to the Private Debt Collection initiative. The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 authorized the IRS to contract with private firms to collect some outstanding tax debts. As the IRS moves forward with this project, it is taking steps to safeguard taxpayer rights and protect the privacy of taxpayer information."

Government Jobs: FAA to Hire Nealry 12,000 Air Traffic Controllers Over Next 10 Years

Government Jobs: FAA to Hire Nealry 12,000 Air Traffic Controllers Over Next 10 Years: "The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today released an updated Air Traffic Controller Workforce Plan designed to address anticipated retirement and replacement of air traffic controllers over the coming decade. The revised document outlines the agency’s plans to hire more than 11,800 new air traffic controllers over the next 10 years."

Genetic Study May Help Identify People Most at Risk for Alcoholism

Genetic Study May Help Identify People Most at Risk for Alcoholism: "Researchers at the Molecular Neurobiology Branch of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institutes of Health, have completed the most comprehensive scan of the human genome to date linked to the ongoing efforts to identify people most at risk for developing alcoholism. This study represents the first time the new genomic technology has been used to comprehensively identify genes linked to substance abuse. The study can be viewed online and will be published in the December 2006 issue of the American Journal of Medical Genetics Part B (Neuropsychiatric Genetics)."

A Little TLC Goes a Long Way toward Reducing High Cholesterol

A Little TLC Goes a Long Way toward Reducing High Cholesterol: "If you're one of the nearly 65 million Americans with high blood cholesterol, National Cholesterol Education Month (September) is a perfect time to read a new publication designed to help you make the lifestyle changes needed to reduce cholesterol and, with it, your risk for heart disease."

FEMA Develops New Guidelines For Donating Manufactured Homes To Provide Temporary Housing For Disaster Victims

FEMA Develops New Guidelines For Donating Manufactured Homes To Provide Temporary Housing For Disaster Victims: "The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has adopted a new interim policy under which it may donate manufactured housing units to states, local governments and voluntary organizations so they can provide temporary housing for disaster victims of major disasters and emergencies."

Avian Flu Detection Information on Wild Birds Available

Avian Flu Detection Information on Wild Birds Available: "The public can now view a Web site showing current information about wild bird sampling for early detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the United States. Scientists are now using the newly developed database and Web application called HEDDS (HPAI Early Detection Data System) to share information on sample collection sites, bird species sampled, and test results."

Nigeria Travel Warning to U.S. Citizens

Nigeria Travel Warning to U.S. Citizens: "This Travel Warning is being issued to note a deterioration in the security situation in the Niger Delta region, reflected in an increase in the number of kidnappings occurring in that area of the country. It supersedes the Travel Warning for Nigeria issued February 17, 2006. The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens of the dangers of travel to Nigeria. The lack of law and order in Nigeria poses considerable risks to travelers. Violent crime committed by ordinary criminals, as well as by persons in police and military uniforms, can occur throughout the country and tends to peak between November and January, during the holiday period."

U.S. Embassy Beirut Consular Section Re-opens For Limited Visa Services - Lebanese Citizens will be Rescheduled for Interviews

U.S. Embassy Beirut Consular Section Re-opens For Limited Visa Services - Lebanese Citizens will be Rescheduled for Interviews: "The U.S. Embassy offers the following information about important temporary changes to its immigrant and nonimmigrant visa services. Beginning Thursday, August 24 the Consular Section will resume Immigrant Visa processing. Lebanese citizens who were previously scheduled for an immigrant visa interview will be re-scheduled immediately. "

FTC Charges Physician Groups With Price Fixing

FTC Charges Physician Groups With Price Fixing: "The Federal Trade Commission today announced its decision to challenge the conduct of two independent practice associations (IPAs) and 18 member physician practices in the Kansas City area for refusing to deal with health care plans, except on collectively agreed-upon terms, including price. The FTC’s complaint charged that their actions unreasonably restrained competition, in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act. In settling the FTC’s charges, they will refrain from engaging in such anticompetitive conduct in the future."

USTDA GRANT PROMOTES AVIATION SAFETY IN VIETNAM

USTDA GRANT PROMOTES AVIATION SAFETY IN VIETNAM: "Improving aviation safety in Vietnam consistent with international standards is the focus of a USTDA grant that was awarded today to the Civil Aviation Administration of Vietnam (CAAV). The grant is part of a $1.4 million two-year safety effort to help Vietnam and the CAAV obtain Category I status under the Federal Aviation Administration’s International Aviation Safety Assessment Program (IASA), which will enable Vietnam’s aviation market to expand both domestically and internationally. "

New IRS Publication Summarizes Tax Benefits to Hurricane Victims

New IRS Publication Summarizes Tax Benefits to Hurricane Victims: "In a continuing effort to assist victims of last year’s hurricanes, the IRS has issued a new publication summarizing the tax incentives to rebuild the Gulf Coast, which are valued at almost $9 billion."

California Announces Arrest of San Francisco Corporate Officer for 49 Felony Counts of Alleged Workers' Comp and Employment Tax Fraud

California Announces Arrest of San Francisco Corporate Officer for 49 Felony Counts of Alleged Workers' Comp and Employment Tax Fraud: "Construction company business owner allegedly underreported payroll to State Compensation Insurance Fund (SCIF) and Employment Development Department (EDD) by total of $5,415,491.66"

Caliifornia Department of Corrections now hiring Physician Assistants

Caliifornia Department of Corrections now hiring Physician Assistants: "The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is recruiting for Physician Assistants, Staff Psychiatrists , nurses, Nurse Practitioners , Chief Dentists , Dental Assistants, Dental Assistants, Physician and Surgeons. Apply Online Today!"

California's Three Tax Agencies Have Simplified the Offer in Compromise Application Process

California's Three Tax Agencies Have Simplified the Offer in Compromise Application Process: "Continuing their efforts to make more services accessible and convenient for more taxpayers, California's three tax agencies have simplified the Offer In Compromise application process.
The Board of Equalization (BOE), Employment Development Department (EDD) and Franchise Tax Board (FTB) have developed a single form, the DE 999CA, Multi-Agency Form for Offer in Compromise, that individuals can use for any of the state's tax agencies."

An Earth-Shaking Experience - Earthquake Science Explained

An Earth-Shaking Experience - Earthquake Science Explained: "Earthquakes pose a significant risk to 75 million Americans in 39 states. Need help explaining the science behind earthquake studies? Two educational tools developed in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Earthquake of 1906"

U.S. Mint Releases 39th Quarter of 50 State Quarters® Program on August 30, 2006

U.S. Mint Releases 39th Quarter of 50 State Quarters® Program on August 30, 2006: "Two American bison roam the Badlands on the North Dakota quarter-dollar, the fourth coin to be released by the United States Mint in 2006 in the phenomenally popular 50 State Quarters® Program.
The public and media are invited to join United States Mint Acting Director David A. Lebryk and Governor John Hoeven at the launch of the North Dakota quarter at the State Capitol Building Mall in Bismarck at 10:45 a.m., Wednesday, August 30. Following the ceremony, the crowd may exchange their paper currency for $10 rolls of newly minted North Dakota quarters. Children 18 years old and younger will receive a free North Dakota quarter."

Need to Reach Uncle Sam? He’s Only a Toll-free Phone Call Away.

Need to Reach Uncle Sam? He’s Only a Toll-free Phone Call Away.: "Need to find out what immunizations are required for your African safari? Or how you can start a small business? Just dial up Uncle Sam at 1 (800) FED-INFO to get help with your questions. It’s the one-stop source for information about the agencies, programs, and activities of the Federal government. From purchasing surplus government property to preparing for emergency situations, 1 (800) FED-INFO can get you to the information you need. "

Male Circumcision and Risk for HIV Transmission: Implications for the United States - CDC Reports

Male Circumcision and Risk for HIV Transmission: Implications for the United States - CDC Reports: "This fact sheet summarizes information in 4 areas of male circumcision: (1) male circumcision and risk of HIV transmission; (2) male circumcision and other health conditions; (3) risks associated with male circumcision; and (4) status of HIV infection and male circumcision in the United States."

Deadlines to Register for Disaster Aid Are Less Than Two Weeks Away

Deadlines to Register for Disaster Aid Are Less Than Two Weeks Away: "New York State and federal officials remind those affected by the June floods that they have less than two weeks left to register for disaster assistance. Register before the deadlines for FEMA and the State program, even if you think your losses will probably be covered by insurance or in some other way. This is especially true for business owners who may qualify for a state grant but still could use a low-interest loan from the Small Business Administration. "

Student Financing of Undergraduate Education

Student Financing of Undergraduate Education: "This report provides detailed information about undergraduate tuition and total price of attendance at various types of institutions, the percentage of students receiving various types of financial aid, and the average amounts that they received. In 2003-04, three-quarters of all full-time undergraduates received some type of financial aid ($9,900 average). One-half took out student loans ($6,200 average), and 62 percent received grants ($5,600 average). "

EEOC Announcement: Court Bars Immigration Queries in Job Discrimination Case; Judge Cites ‘Chilling Effect’

EEOC Announcement: Court Bars Immigration Queries in Job Discrimination Case; Judge Cites ‘Chilling Effect’: "CHICAGO – The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) today announced that it has secured another federal court ruling sharply limiting the ability of employers sued for harassment and other forms of employment discrimination to make an issue of the victims’ immigration status. "

Tax Scams : Simple Steps Can Prevent Tax Scams as Private Debt Collection Begins

Tax Scams : Simple Steps Can Prevent Tax Scams as Private Debt Collection Begins: " As the Internal Revenue Service begins its private debt collection initiative, the tax agency reminds taxpayers there are several simple steps that can provide protection against scam artists. Scamsters try a variety of tricks to impersonate the IRS in hopes of tricking taxpayers into divulging personal or financial information or even conning people out of cash. Scam artists try to impersonate the IRS in person, by phone, by e-mail and over the Internet."

OSHA Revises Respiratory Protection Standards

OSHA Revises Respiratory Protection Standards: "New Assigned Protection Factors (APFs) for respiratory protection programs are being incorporated into the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) respiratory protection standard, the agency announced today.
This APF final rule completes the revision of the reserve sections of OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard as published in 1998. The Respiratory Protection Standard will now contain provisions necessary for a comprehensive respiratory protection program, including selection and use of respirators, training, medical evaluation, and fit testing."

Ozone Hole: NOAA, NSF OBSERVE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF OZONE HOLE 'SUCCESS STORY'

Ozone Hole: NOAA, NSF OBSERVE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF OZONE HOLE 'SUCCESS STORY': "Twenty years ago this month, four teams of scientists from NOAA, NASA and two universities arrived in Antarctica seeking to determine the cause of a 'hole' in the Antarctic ozone layer. Their efforts helped determine the chemical basis for the ozone loss and formed the scientific basis for the resulting international treaty phasing out the production of chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, which has led to a decline in ozone-depleting gases."

New Director for Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Office

New Director for Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Office: "USAID has a long history of partnering with faith-based and community organizations. Leveraging their expertise and dedication has proven a wise public investment, and has greatly enriched our effectiveness in the field. I look forward to facilitating new partnerships as we continue to help build and support the foundations of freedom around the world,' said Ms. Hasdorff. "

USAID Sends Assistance to China Typhoon Victims

USAID Sends Assistance to China Typhoon Victims: "WASHINGTON, DC - In response to the magnitude of damaged caused by multiple typhoons, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is providing $250,000 through the U.S. Embassy in Beijing to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies' appeal for support of relief operations by the Red Cross Society of China."

RAdiation Emergencies: How to find temporary shelter in a radiation emergency

RAdiation Emergencies: How to find temporary shelter in a radiation emergency: "The terrorist events of 2001 made many people wonder about the possibility of a terrorist attack involving radioactive materials. People who live near but not in the immediate area of the attack may be asked to stay home and take shelter rather than try to evacuate. This action is called “sheltering in place.” Because many radioactive materials rapidly decay and dissipate, staying in your home for a short time may protect you from exposure to radiation."

Crimes Against Children: DOJ Awards $400,000 to Kentucky to Combat Internet Crimes Against Children

Crimes Against Children: DOJ Awards $400,000 to Kentucky to Combat Internet Crimes Against Children Nationwide, between October 1, 2005, and June 30, 2006, the Justice Department-funded ICAC task forces have received over 13,800 complaints of technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation, which includes the possession, distribution, and creation of child pornography, as well as attempts by individuals to lure and travel to meet children for sexual encounters. Investigations initiated from complaints have led to over 1,400 arrests, forensic examinations of more than 6,600 computers, over 2,500 case referrals to non-ICAC law enforcement agencies, and the provision of training for more than 8,000 law enforcement officers and prosecutors.

Crimes Against Children: DOJ Awards $400,000 to Kentucky to Combat Internet Crimes Against Children

Crimes Against Children: DOJ Awards $400,000 to Kentucky to Combat Internet Crimes Against Children Nationwide, between October 1, 2005, and June 30, 2006, the Justice Department-funded ICAC task forces have received over 13,800 complaints of technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation, which includes the possession, distribution, and creation of child pornography, as well as attempts by individuals to lure and travel to meet children for sexual encounters. Investigations initiated from complaints have led to over 1,400 arrests, forensic examinations of more than 6,600 computers, over 2,500 case referrals to non-ICAC law enforcement agencies, and the provision of training for more than 8,000 law enforcement officers and prosecutors.

Cenus Bureua Reports: Child-Support Receipt Up; Reliance on Public Assistance Down

Cenus Bureua Reports: Child-Support Receipt Up; Reliance on Public Assistance Down: "More child support is being received, and a rise in employment rates of custodial parents match a decline in participation in public assistance programs, according to a report released today by the U.S. Census Bureau."

Target Recalls 185,000 Scooters

Target Recalls 185,000 Scooters: "Target has received five reports of incidents and injuries resulting from breaking or collapsing parts. Injuries resulting from falls include: a fractured arm, cracked teeth, bruises to the head, face and arm, a report of a lacerated toe, and scratches."

First 'direct observation' sheds new light on dark matter

First 'direct observation' sheds new light on dark matter: "By observing a rare head-on collision of galaxies at 10 million miles per hour, astronomers have made the first direct detection of 'dark matter'--the mysterious, invisible stuff that comprises at least one-quarter of the universe."

Rise in Motorcycle and Pedestrian Deaths Led to Increase in Overall Highway Fatality Rate in 2005

Rise in Motorcycle and Pedestrian Deaths Led to Increase in Overall Highway Fatality Rate in 2005: "An increase in motorcycle and pedestrian deaths contributed to an overall rise in highway fatalities in 2005, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced today. The total number of fatalities rose 1.4 percent from 42,836 in 2004 to 43,443 in 2005 while the rate of fatalities was 1.47 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT), up from 1.45 in 2004."

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