Healthcare employment for workers without a bachelor’s degree

Healthcare employment for workers without a bachelor’s degree: "Overall, healthcare occupations are projected to provide more than 3 million job openings between 2004 and 2014 for workers without a bachelor’s degree. "

Postal Service Proposes New Mailing Standards To Increase Efficiency

Postal Service Proposes New Mailing Standards To Increase Efficiency: "The U.S. Postal Service proposes to revise its mailing standards to encourage mail preparation that is compatible with the Postal Service’s improved processing capabilities. When implemented, the standards would accompany the proposed price changes planned to take effect next spring. "

Half of U.S. Businesses Are Home-Based, Majority of Firms Self-Financed

Half of U.S. Businesses Are Home-Based, Majority of Firms Self-Financed: "Almost half (49 percent) of the nation’s businesses are operated from home, and more than 6-in-10 owners used their own money to start the business, according to new U.S. Census Bureau reports on characteristics of businesses and business owners."

Online Grants:The Six Steps of Applying Electronically

Online Grants:The Six Steps of Applying Electronically: "The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has begun to move to receiving grant applications electronically. There are six steps in the electronic application process. "

Title Insurance Illegal Kickbacks: Garamendi Files Accusation Against Stewart Title For Illegal Rebate Activities

Title Insurance Illegal Kickbacks: Garamendi Files Accusation Against Stewart Title For Illegal Rebate Activities: "Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi has filed a formal accusation against Stewart Title Guaranty Company alleging the company has engaged in an illegal captive reinsurance scheme from 1999 through 2005, in violation of state and federal anti-kickback laws. "

Airline Travel Update:Permitted and Prohibited Items

Airline Travel Update:Permitted and Prohibited Items: "Effective Tuesday, September 26, TSA Is Adjusting The Ban On Liquids, Aerosols And Gels. Travelers may now carry through security checkpoints travel-size toiletries (3 ounces or less) that fit comfortably in ONE, QUART-SIZE, clear plastic, zip-top bag. After clearing security, travelers can now bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure boarding area on-board aircraft."

Airline Travel Update:Permitted and Prohibited Items

Airline Travel Update:Permitted and Prohibited Items: "Effective Tuesday, September 26, TSA Is Adjusting The Ban On Liquids, Aerosols And Gels. Travelers may now carry through security checkpoints travel-size toiletries (3 ounces or less) that fit comfortably in ONE, QUART-SIZE, clear plastic, zip-top bag. After clearing security, travelers can now bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure boarding area on-board aircraft."

Employer costs for retirement and savings plans, June 2006

Employer costs for retirement and savings plans, June 2006: "n June 2006, average costs to employers in private industry for retirement and savings benefits were 91 cents per hour worked. "

HUD Reaches $500,000 Settlement with Mortgage Company

HUD Reaches $500,000 Settlement with Mortgage Company: " U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced today that it has negotiated a settlement for $500,000 with SouthStar Funding LLC, to resolve allegations of discrimination against African Americans and Hispanics in mortgage lending. "

SAMHSA Awards $24.9 Million for Substance Abuse Treatment and HIV/AIDS Services for Minorities

SAMHSA Awards $24.9 Million for Substance Abuse Treatment and HIV/AIDS Services for Minorities: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the award of 10 grants totaling $24.9 million over five years to enhance and expand substance abuse treatment, outreach, and pretreatment services in conjunction with HIV/AIDS services in Black, Latino/Hispanic, and other racial or ethnic communities highly affected by the twin epidemics of substance abuse and HIV/AIDS. Beverly Watts Davis, Senior Advisor on Substance Abuse Policy at SAMHSA, also announced the grants during her speech at the 2006 United States Conference on AIDS held in Hollywood, Florida. "

New Report: Emergency Department Visits Involving ADHD Stimulant Medications

New ADHD Report: Emergency Department Visits Involving ADHD Stimulant Medications: "According to SAMHSA's Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) for 2004, an estimated 7,873 drug-related emergency department visits involved methylphenidate or amphetamine-dextroamphetamine, two medications used to treat attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)."

Home Made Explosives (HME) Detection System Grant

Home Made Explosives (HME) Detection System Grant: "This project is in support of the ongoing effort by S&T/DHS to counter the recent increase from liquid explosives threat. S&T’s goal is to investigate any and all potential detection technologies capable of detecting and distinguishing explosives and flammable liquids from benign liquids (drinks, lotions, hygiene products, contact lens solutions, etc.). Homemade Explosives (HME) such as black powder, triacetonetriperoxide (TATP), hexamethylene-triperoxidediamine (HMTD), chlorates, and perchlorates mixed with sugar or other fuels have come to be used instead of commercial explosives."

Vegetable of the Month: Chili Peppers

Vegetable of the Month: Chili Peppers: "Hot peppers (chilies) are often used to spice up dishes, and they are especially popular in ethnic cuisine including Mexican, Indian, Thai, Vietnamese, Arab and Spanish cooking. Chilies are an excellent source of vitamin C if you can withstand their powerful bite."

2008 Diversity Visa Lottery Program Registration Opens October 4

2008 Diversity Visa Lottery Program Registration Opens October 4: "Registration for the United States' 2008 Diversity Visa Lottery program (DV-2008) will be held October 4 to December 3, the State Department announced September 19. Applicants whose names are selected randomly will be eligible to apply for one of 50,000 permanent resident visas made available annually to persons from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States."

What’s New: California Real Estate Business Address Lookup

What’s New: California Real Estate Business Address Lookup: "
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Training Fund Grants Available for California Building and Construction Trades

Training Fund Grants Available for California Building and Construction Trades: "The training fund grant for the 2006-2007 fiscal year is under way, the grant application with the vendor data record must be postmarked by September 30, 2006. These grants are for apprenticeship programs in the building and construction trades only"

Albertsons Community Grants

Albertsons Community Grants: "Albertsons is accepting applications for its In the Community Grant program. The purpose of this program is to support organizations that work in the areas of hunger relief, youth and education, and health and nutrition. Preference is given to organizations that offer volunteer opportunities"

New Grant Highlights U.S. Cultural Support - Agreement Helps Preserve Historic Addis Ababa Theatre

New Grant Highlights U.S. Cultural Support - Agreement Helps Preserve Historic Addis Ababa Theatre: "Addis Ababa (U.S. Embassy) – Public Affairs Counselor Dr. Anthony Fisher joined Addis Ababa City Administration Bureau Head for Information and Culture, H.E. Ato Misgnaw Arga on Thursday, September 21, to sign a grant that will make possible the structural consolidation of the historic Hager Fikir Theatre. The grant, in the amount of $35,000, is being provided through the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation, an annual competitive program of the U.S. Department of State."

Weight Loss and Exercise in Obese Physically Limited Older Women and Men

Weight Loss and Exercise in Obese Physically Limited Older Women and Men: "The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of weight loss and exercise on physical function, body fat and muscle mass, bone strength, and quality of life"

Esophageal Cancer Risk Registry

Esophageal Cancer Risk Registry: "The purpose of this study is to identify markers in the blood and tissue that could indicate risk factors for the development and progression of esophagus cancer. "

Child Asthma: Chronic-Dose Safety and Efficacy Study of a Bronchodilator Inhaler in Pediatric Asthmatics

Child Asthma: Chronic-Dose Safety and Efficacy Study of a Bronchodilator Inhaler in Pediatric Asthmatics: "This study is designed to evaluate the repeat-dose safety and effectiveness of a bronchodilator inhaler relative to placebo (inactive drug inhaler) in children aged 4-11 years with asthma. The dosing period lasts three weeks and starts following a three-week run-in period. "

Sony Playstation 3 HDD 20gb Equipped With HDMI As Standard

Sony Playstation 3 HDD 20GB Equipped With HDMI as Standard: "Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) today announced that PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3) with 20GB hard disk drive (HDD) will come equipped with HDMI(*) (Ver 1.3/supporting Deep Color) output as standard with the system. PS3 with 20GB HDD will become available in Japan at a new recommended retail price of 49,980 yen (tax included)."

Playskool Tool Benches Recalled after the Death of Two Toddlers

Playskool Tool Benches Recalled after the Death of Two Toddlers: " - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Playskool, of Pawtucket, R.I., is voluntarily recalling about 255,000 Team Talkin’ Tool Bench toys following the deaths of two young children. "

Web Manager University Kicks Off New Semester with Workshop

Web Manager University Kicks Off New Semester with Workshop: "Web managers from throughout the government are learning an assortment of skills this week at the Government Web Managers Workshop, co-sponsored by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). The workshop kicks off the fall 2006 semester for Web Manager University. Managers are being taught the practical tools they need to make government websites easier to read and navigate, to improve the way government websites are managed and measured, and to respond in the face of emergencies. "

Enhanced Tools Available to Help People with Medicare Improve Their Health Care

Enhanced Tools Available to Help People with Medicare Improve Their Health Care: "Beginning in mid-October, people with Medicare will have new and enhanced tools to help them learn more about their Medicare health care coverage, including comparative information about the services provided by their Medicare prescription drug plans. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) reported that nearly all exceptions and appeals filed by people with Medicare were decided within seven days as required by CMS guidelines."

ADHD Medication Misuse by Those Aged 12 to 17 Results in Higher Number of Visits to Emergency Department

ADHD Medication Misuse by Those Aged 12 to 17 Results in Higher Number of Visits to Emergency Department: "People ages 18 to 25 have a higher rate of nonmedical use of the two medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but those 12 to 17 may be at greater risk for adverse health effects, particularly from nonmedical use, a new report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) shows."

Drug-Free Work Week - Week of October 16-22

Drug-Free Work Week - Week of October 16-22: ".S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao announced today that October 16-22, 2006 will be Drug-Free Work Week. The purpose of Drug-Free Work Week is to educate employers, employees and the general public about the importance of being drug-free as a component of improving workplace safety and health. The campaign will be a collaborative effort between the Department of Labor and members of its Drug-Free Workplace Alliance; however, all employers and employees are encouraged to participate. "

Raw Milk Recall: Organic Pastures Raw Milk Recall Announced by CDFA

Raw Milk Recall: Organic Pastures Raw Milk Recall Announced by CDFA: "Raw milk produced by Organic Pastures of Fresno County is the subject of a statewide recall and quarantine order announced by California State Veterinarian Dr. Richard Breitmeyer. Under the recall, all Organic Pastures whole and skim raw milk is to be pulled immediately from retail shelves and consumers are strongly urged to dispose of any product remaining in their refrigerators. Until further notice, Organic Pastures may not produce raw milk for the retail market. The order also affects Organic Pastures raw cream and raw colostrum"

World Proved Reserves of Oil and Natural Gas, Most Recent Estimates

World Proved Reserves of Oil and Natural Gas, Most Recent Estimates: " updated table of World Proved Reserves of Oil and Natural Gas, Most Recent Estimates is now available. The table has been updated to include country-level proved oil and natural gas reserve estimates for Year-End 2005 from the BP Statistical Review of World Energy June 2006 and proved natural gas reserves for January 1, 2006 from "

FTC Stops Nationwide Debt Negotiation Scheme

FTC Stops Nationwide Debt Negotiation Scheme: "As requested by the Federal Trade Commission, a federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order against a nationwide operation that claimed it could reduce consumers’ debt by up to 60 percent, leading many people into financial ruin and bankruptcy. The FTC charged five companies, including Homeland Financial Services, National Support Services and Prosper Financial Solutions, and their principals with deceptive and unfair practices in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act."

CDC HIV/AIDS Factsheet: CDC Releases Revised HIV Testing Recommendations in Health-Care Settings

CDC HIV/AIDS Factsheet: CDC Releases Revised HIV Testing Recommendations in Health-Care Settings: "Effective September 2006, CDC has revised its recommendations for HIV testing in health-care settings. The Revised Recommendations for HIV Testing of Adults, Adolescents, and Pregnant Women in Health-Care Settings aim to make HIV testing a routine part of medical care in addition to expanding the gains made in diagnosing HIV infection among pregnant women. The Recommendations replace CDC’s 1993 Recommendations for HIV Testing Services for Inpatients and Outpatients in Acute-Care Settings and they update portions of CDC’s 2001 Revised Guidelines for HIV Counseling, Testing, and Referral and Revised Recommendations for HIV Screening of Pregnant Women."

FEMA: Volunteer Legal Services Available for Another Week

FEMA: Volunteer Legal Services Available for Another Week: "HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) want to remind residents impacted by the flooding that occurred in late-June that free legal services are available for eligible flood victims until September 28 ."

High Blood Pressure Information Added to NIHSeniorHealth

High Blood Pressure Information Added to NIHSeniorHealth: "High blood pressure often is called “the silent killer” because many people don’t know they have it. Even though it doesn’t cause symptoms, high blood pressure is a major health risk. If it isn’t treated, it can lead to stroke, heart disease, kidney failure, and other serious health problems"

Toyota Hybrid Begins Phaseout on October 1

Toyota Hybrid Begins Phaseout on October 1: "The Internal Revenue Service announced today that Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. has submitted quarterly reports indicating that its cumulative sales of qualified vehicles to retail dealers has reached the 60,000-vehicle limit during the calendar quarter ending June 30, 2006. Under the current tax law, the credit for buying a hybrid vehicle begins to phase out during the second calendar quarter after the quarter in which the company sells its 60,000th hybrid or lean burn technology vehicle."

SAMHSA Awards States $145 Million in Strategic Prevention Framework Incentive Grants

SAMHSA Awards States $145 Million in Strategic Prevention Framework Incentive Grants: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced 16 grants totaling $145 million over five years to implement Strategic Prevention Framework State Incentive Grants (SPF SIGs) to advance community-based programs for substance abuse prevention, mental health promotion and mental illness prevention. Dennis O. Romero, Acting Director of SAMHSA’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, announced the grants during his speech at the Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association’s annual conference in Oak Brook, Illinois. "

Avian Flu Travel Information

Avian Flu Travel Information - These fact sheets provide general information about avian influenza (bird flu) and information about one type of bird flu, called avian influenza A (H5N1) which is causing infections in birds and humans.

E. coli in Spinach Update; 131 Cases Reported

E. coli in Spinach Update; 131 Cases Reported: "To date, 131 cases of illness due to E. coli infection have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including 20 cases of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), 66 hospitalizations, and one death. Illnesses continue to be reported to CDC. This is considered to be an ongoing investigation. "

Automotive Repair Alert: California Seeks to Shuts Down Southern California EZ Lube Shops

Automotive Repair Alert: California Seeks to Shuts Down Southern California EZ Lube Shops - The California Department of Consumer Affairs/Bureau of Automotive Repair (DCA/BAR) is taking disciplinary action that may result in the suspension or revocation of the Automotive Repair Dealer registrations of 76 Southern California EZ Lube auto repair shops. This marks the largest Bureau investigation in recent history against an independently-owned automotive repair corporation.

2008 U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery Program Registration Begins Otctober 4th

2008 U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery Program Registration Begins Otctober 4th: "Applications for the 2008 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery will be accepted between noon Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4), Wednesday, October 4, 2006 and noon Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5) Sunday, December 3, 2006. Paper entries will not be accepted. Applicants are strongly encouraged not to wait until the last week of the registration period to enter. Heavy demand may result in website delays. No entries will be accepted after noon EST on December 3, 2006. "

Identity Theft Task Force Announces Interim Recommendations

Identity Theft Task Force Announces Interim Recommendations: "The President’s Identity Theft Task Force has adopted interim recommendations on measures that can be implemented immediately to help address the problem of identity theft, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales and Federal Trade Commission Chairman Deborah Platt Majoras announced today. The Identity Theft Task Force, which was established by Executive Order of the President on May 10, 2006, and is now comprised of 17 federal agencies and departments, will deliver a final strategic plan to the President in November"

U.S. Postal Service signs on as exclusive shipper for eFashionSolutions

U.S. Postal Service signs on as exclusive shipper for eFashionSolutions: "One of the fastest growing Internet-based companies in the country has fashioned an arrangement with the U.S. Postal Service to deliver all international online sales. eFashionSolutions will use the Postal Service's Global Shipping Solution (GSS) exclusively for all orders placed through its 26 websites destined overseas. GSS software allows companies like eFashionSolutions to create online customs forms, print labels and track packages door-to-door. The process is easy for customers and helps simplify the customs clearance process, shortening delivery times."

IRS Filing Deadline Set for October 16; Free File Still Available

IRS Filing Deadline Set for October 16; Free File Still Available: "Individual taxpayers who received a six-month extension to file their 2005 income tax return have less than a month remaining. The deadline to file the tax return is October 16. Taxpayers who have yet to complete their tax return are encouraged to use IRS e-file to submit their return electronically or use Free File to electronically prepare and send their return. Both IRS e-file and Free File will remain available for individual taxpayers through the extension period."

As Students Return to College, California Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi Urges Parents to Re-Evaluate Insurance Needs

As Students Return to College, California Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi Urges Parents to Re-Evaluate Insurance Needs: "Garamendi advises parents and college-bound students to consider updating or adding renter’s, health and auto insurance for campus living this fall. Whether it’s a stolen computer, an on-campus auto accident, or a huge medical bill for a late-night trip to the emergency room, California Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi is urging California’s college students and their families to avoid finding out the hard way that they are under-insured"

Oil Spills in Lebanon and Philippines Place Natural Resources at Risk - NOAA Responds

Oil Spills in Lebanon and Philippines Place Natural Resources at Risk - NOAA Responds: "The NOAA Office of Response and Restoration is working with the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Coast Guard to respond to recent international oil spill emergencies in Lebanon and the Philippines. NOAA's Scientific Support Coordinators are at the forefront of emergency response efforts providing scientific support and comprehensive solutions to hazardous material releases in the marine environment."

OSHA Cites Swainsboro, Ga., Company for Trenching Hazards

OSHA Cites Swainsboro, Ga., Company for Trenching Hazards: "has cited OCS, an underground utility contractor, for exposing workers to trenching hazards at a job site located at Deer Creek and Fairway Drives in Swainsboro, Ga. The agency is proposing penalties totaling $61,600."

HUD Offers $39 Million To Clean Up Dangerous Lead-Based Paint In High-Risk Urban Areas

HUD Offers $39 Million To Clean Up Dangerous Lead-Based Paint In High-Risk Urban Areas: "Funding targeted to areas with older rental housing and lead-poisoned children "

New Yorkers Have Two Weeks to Register For State, Federal Disaster Aid

New Yorkers Have Two Weeks to Register For State, Federal Disaster Aid: "ALBANY, N.Y. -- New York State and federal officials remind those who were affected by the June floods that they only have two weeks left to register for disaster assistance. It is important that those who need to register for aid do so as soon as possible."

FEMA Funds Nearly $12 Million More for Mississippi School Rebuilding Efforts

FEMA Funds Nearly $12 Million More for Mississippi School Rebuilding Efforts: "Students and parents at seven more Mississippi Gulf Coast primary and secondary schools can look forward to new classrooms and facilities funded by an additional $11.7 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). "

SAMHSA Awards $13.5 Million in Grants for Family-Centered Substance Abuse Treatment for Adolescents

SAMHSA Awards $13.5 Million in Grants for Family-Centered Substance Abuse Treatment for Adolescents: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the award of 15 grants to community-based organizations totaling almost $13.5 million over three years to provide treatment services to adolescents with substance abuse problems. Grantees receiving these awards will utilize known, effective strategies that include families as an integral part of the treatment process"

September is National Menopause Awareness Month

September is National Menopause Awareness Month: "The ORWH joins the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) in recognizing September as National Menopause Awareness Month. This month-long event was established by U.S. federal legislators who recognized the need to increase awareness about the importance of having accurate information to enhance women’s health at menopause and beyond."

Save the Date: Fertility Preservation in Women Undergoing Chemotherapy

Save the Date: Fertility Preservation in Women Undergoing Chemotherapy: "Come join your fellow NIH colleagues in a scientific exchange on issues related to the biology and pathology of sex and gender differences and effects on women’s health. Plan to stay afterwards for discussion! "

Update:Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP

Update:Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP: "the latest published version of the patent rules -Appendix R of the MPEP or Consolidated Patent Rules"

FBI Releases its 2005 Crime Statistics

FBI Releases its 2005 Crime Statistics: "The estimated volume of violent crime in the Nation increased 2.3 percent, but the estimated volume of property crime decreased 1.5 percent in 2005 when compared with 2004 data, according to FBI statistics released today. From 2004 to 2005, the rate of violent crime, estimated at 469.2 violent offenses per 100,000 inhabitants, increased 1.3 percent, but the rate of property crime, estimated at 3,429.8 property offenses per 100,000 inhabitants, decreased 2.4 percent."

Free Annual Credit Report Program 1 Year Anniversary

Free Annual Credit Report Program 1 Year Anniversary: "September marks the first anniversary of every consumer’s right to a free annual credit report from each of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion."

Califrnia Small Business Fairs

Califrnia Small Business Fairs: " free seminar for small business owners put on by several tax agencies to assist with tax aspects of your business. Talk to experts from the Board of Equalization, Internal Revenue Service, Franchise Tax Board and Employment Development Department"

New Cell Phone Bill: Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Bill Requiring Drivers to Use Hands Free Devices While Talking on a Mobile PhoneBill

New Cell Phone Bill: Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Bill Requiring Drivers to Use Hands Free Devices While Talking on a Mobile PhoneBill -The simple fact is it’s dangerous to talk on your cell phone while driving. CHP data show that cell phones are the number one cause of distracted-driving accidents,” said Gov. Schwarzenegger. “So getting people’s hands off their phones and onto their steering wheels is going to make a big difference in road safety. The ‘Hands-Free’ cell phone bill will save lives by making our roads safer. I want to thank Senator Simitian for authoring this bill and for his commitment to the safety of his fellow Californians."

New Cell Phone Bill: Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Bill Requiring Drivers to Use Hands Free Devices While Talking on a Mobile PhoneBill

New Cell Phone Bill: Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Bill Requiring Drivers to Use Hands Free Devices While Talking on a Mobile PhoneBill -The simple fact is it’s dangerous to talk on your cell phone while driving. CHP data show that cell phones are the number one cause of distracted-driving accidents,” said Gov. Schwarzenegger. “So getting people’s hands off their phones and onto their steering wheels is going to make a big difference in road safety. The ‘Hands-Free’ cell phone bill will save lives by making our roads safer. I want to thank Senator Simitian for authoring this bill and for his commitment to the safety of his fellow Californians."

Small Businesses Get 76% of GSA Katrina Contracts

Small Businesses Get 76% of GSA Katrina Contracts: "Since Hurricane Katrina slammed into the Gulf Coast one year ago today, 76 percent of the GSA’s contracting dollars in response to the worst natural disaster in U.S. history have gone to small businesses. Additionally, GSA continues to reach out to small businesses, helping them prepare to respond to the next disaster."

Internet Scam Alert: Counterfeit Cashier’s Checks being Issued Nationwide

Internet Scam Alert: Counterfeit Cashier’s Checks being Issued Nationwide: "The above-named bank has reported that counterfeit cashier’s checks issued in the bank’s name and using a correct routing number of 112322634 are being presented for payment nationwide in connection with an up-front fee Internet scam. "

Homeland Security Grants

Homeland Security Grants: "The Department of Homeland Security enhances the ability of states, local and tribal jurisdictions, and other regional authorities in the preparation, prevention, and response to terrorist attacks and other disasters, by distributing grant funds. "

New Yorkers Have Two Weeks To Register For Disaster Assistance

New Yorkers Have Two Weeks To Register For Disaster Assistance: "New York State and federal officials urge those affected by the June severe storms and floods to register for State and federal disaster assistance before the October 2, 2006 deadline"

Acne Treatment:Non-Cutting Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Acne

Acne Treatment:Non-Cutting Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Acne: "The purpose of this research project is to study the effect of non-ablative (non-cutting) laser therapy, a technique that uses laser energy to try to improve the appearance of the skin. This type of laser treatment creates changes in a layer of the skin called the dermis without causing an open wound in the skin."

Auto Insurance: California Announces Expansion of State's Low Cost Auto Insurance Program - coverage for under $400 a year

Auto Insurance: California Announces Expansion of State's Low Cost Auto Insurance Program - coverage for under $400 a year: "State Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi today announced plans to further expand the California Low Cost Automobile Insurance Program (CLCA) to six additional counties – Monterey, Merced, Santa Barbara, Sonoma, Tulare and Ventura. The affordable program provides eligible low income, good drivers with state-required liability coverage for under $400 a year. "

DEPRESSION, PARTICULARLY IN COMBINATION WITH SUBSTANCE ABUSE, SIGNIFICANT RISK FACTOR FOR SUICIDE

DEPRESSION, PARTICULARLY IN COMBINATION WITH SUBSTANCE ABUSE, SIGNIFICANT RISK FACTOR FOR SUICIDE: "Although suicide, the 11th leading cause of death among adults, is already considered a major public health problem, those who die from suicide represent only a fraction of those who consider or attempt suicide, according to a new OAS Report from SAMHSA. For those with a major depressive episode (MDE) who also engaged in alcohol or drug abuse, the likelihood of suicide attempts or suicidal thoughts were even greater. "

Short-Term Energy Outlook - Global and U.S.Petroleum Markets

Short-Term Energy Outlook - Global and U.S.Petroleum Markets: "August began with a surge in oil prices, as BP Oil Company announced a reduction in oil production from Alaska’s Prudhoe Bay. However, August ended with falling oil prices, led by the earlier-than-expected seasonal decline in gasoline prices. The average retail price of regular motor gasoline fell from $3.04 per gallon on August 7, 2006, to $2.62 per gallon on September 11, 2006, and is expected to fall to an average of $2.55 per gallon in January 2007 before rising again into next summer"

Avian Influenza: What Consumers Need to Know About Avian Influenza

Avian Influenza: What Consumers Need to Know About Avian Influenza: "Avian influenza (AI)--the bird flu--is a virus that infects wild birds (such as ducks, gulls, and shorebirds) and domestic poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese). There is a flu for birds just as there is for humans and, as with people, some forms of the flu are worse than others. "

Suicide Report: Suicidal Thoughts, Suicide Attempts, Major Depressive Episode & Substance Use among Adults

Suicide Report: Suicidal Thoughts, Suicide Attempts, Major Depressive Episode & Substance Use among Adults: "Among adults aged 18 or older who experienced a past year major depressive episode (MDE), 56.3 percent thought, during their worst or most recent episode, that it would be better if they were dead, 40.3 percent thought about committing suicide, 14.5 percent made a suicide plan, and 10.4 percent made a suicide attempt."

Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Vehicle Workshop - October 6, 2006

Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Vehicle Workshop - October 6, 2006: "Learn about the hydrogen refueling stations and fleet programs in Southern California, and why this technology is important to our state. "

California 2007 AmeriCorps Grant Announcement

California 2007 AmeriCorps Grant Announcement: "The California Service Corps (CSC) has funding available for AmeriCorps grants. To learn more about this funding opportunity or submit an application, please download the Request for Application (RFA) below"

Constitution Day is Sept 17

Constitution Day is Sept 17: "On September 17, 1787, the delegates to the Constitutional Convention met for the last time to sign the document they had created. The National Archives and Records Administration celebrates this important day in our nation's history by presenting the following activities, lesson plans, and information. We encourage teachers and students at all levels to learn more about our Constitution and government"

Avoid Hurricane Scams and Fraud

Avoid Hurricane Scams and Fraud: "The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is seeing an increase in websites soliciting for charitable donations to aid hurricane survivors. The FBI advises the following for consumers: Do not respond to any unsolicited or spam e-mails; go directly to recognized charities and aid organizations' websites instead of following a link to another site; try to verify the legitimacy of any nonprofit organization; and be cautious of any e-mails claiming to show pictures of the disaster in attached files, as these files may contain viruses."

OSHA Adds Fire Protection Module to Shipyard Employment eTool

OSHA Adds Fire Protection Module to Shipyard Employment eTool: "(OSHA) today launched a new Fire Protection Module as part of its interactive Web-based training tool Shipyard Employment eTool.
The module and eTool are products of Alliances between OSHA and the American Shipbuilding Association, National Shipbuilding Research Program, and the Shipbuilders Council of America."

Youth Suicide Prevention: Louisiana and Mississippi to Receive $2.4 million for Youth Suicide Prevention, Early Intervention

Youth Suicide Prevention: Louisiana and Mississippi to Receive $2.4 million for Youth Suicide Prevention, Early Intervention: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced awards of $2.4 million over three years to Louisiana and Mississippi to develop and implement statewide suicide prevention and early intervention activities to benefit youth who are adversely impacted by the hurricanes of one year ago. These grants are being released today to coincide with Suicide Prevention Week (September 10-16). "

Consumer Warning: Liberty Dollars Not Legal Tender, United States Mint Warns Consumers

Consumer Warning: Liberty Dollars Not Legal Tender, United States Mint Warns Consumers: "The United States Mint urges consumers considering the purchase or use of “Liberty Dollar” medallions, marketed by the National Organization for the Repeal of the Federal Reserve Act and the Internal Revenue Code (NORFED), to be aware that they are not genuine United States Mint bullion coins, and not legal tender. "

FOR-PROFIT Software Piracy Web Site Operator Sentenced to 87 Months In Prison

FOR-PROFIT Software Piracy Web Site Operator Sentenced to 87 Months In Prison: "Defendant Made More Than $5.4 Million in Illegal Revenue "

Disaster Aid For New Yorkers Exceeds $125 Million

Disaster Aid For New Yorkers Exceeds $125 Million: "ALBANY, N.Y. -- Families and individuals who suffered damage from the June severe storms and flooding have received more than $125 million in assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State of New York."

Spam: FTC Puts a Permanent Halt to Illegal Spamming Operations

FTC Puts a Permanent Halt to Illegal Spamming Operations: "The Federal Trade Commission has brought a permanent halt to four illegal spamming operations – including one that offered the opportunity to “date lonely wives” and two that hijacked the computers of unwitting third parties and used them to pelt consumers with graphic sexually explicit e-mail. The FTC charged the operators with sending spam that violated provisions of the CAN-SPAM Act, and has halted the illegal spamming. "

Investment Busines Workshop: OPIC Workshops Target Minority And Women-Owned Businesses' Access To Global Markets

Investment Busines Workshop: OPIC Workshops Target Minority And Women-Owned Businesses' Access To Global Markets: "WASHINGTON, D.C. – Enabling minority and women-owned U.S. businesses to utilize their competitive advantages in emerging markets is the goal of three workshops to be hosted this fall by the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), OPIC President and CEO Robert Mosbacher, Jr. announced today."

India and U.S.Trade Announcement: U.S. Commerce Department Announces Business Development Mission To India Will Be Largest Ever

India and U.S.Trade Announcement: U.S. Commerce Department Announces Business Development Mission To India Will Be Largest Ever: " U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Franklin L. Lavin today announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce’s November business development mission to India will be the largest ever led by the federal government. The International Trade Administration (ITA) has accepted the applications of 54 companies for participation in the November Mission."

Oil and Gas Scams: Common Red Flags and Steps You Can Take to Protect Yourself

Oil and Gas Scams: Common Red Flags and Steps You Can Take to Protect Yourself: "If you think you’ve found the right oil or gas investment to “strike it rich,” consider this: it may be a scam. While some oil and gas investment opportunities are legitimate, many oil and gas ventures are frauds. Many of these schemes start in so-called “boiler rooms,” where skilled telemarketers use high pressure sales tactics to convince you to hand over your hard-earned money"

New side crash tests: performance of two Fords improves with side airbags

New side crash tests: performance of two Fords improves with side airbags: "The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently tested four 2007 model vehicles with side airbags: Toyota FJ Cruiser and Ford Freestyle (midsize SUVs); Ford Fusion (midsize moderately priced car) and Ford Crown Victoria (large family car). The FJ Cruiser and Freestyle earn good ratings for protection in side crashes."

High Cholesterol: A Study to Evaluate Ezetimibe| Simvastatin and Niacin

High Cholesterol: A Study to Evaluate Ezetimibe Simvastatin and Niacin: "To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ezetimibe/simvastatin and niacin in patients with high cholesterol."

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment: A Double Blind Trial of Duloxetine

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment: A Double Blind Trial of Duloxetine: "The purpose of this study is to determine the safety and efficacy of duloxetine compared with placebo for reducing fatigue in patients diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). "

Treatment of Binge Eating Disorder

Treatment of Binge Eating Disorder: "This is a multicenter (2 sites) randomized trial evaluating three group treatment models for subjects with binge eating disorder. One model is a cognitive behavior treatment (CBT) group, one is partial self help, and one is self help only. "

Horses and Burros Bid: BLM Seeks Bids for Two New Pasture Facilities in West

Horses and Burros Bid: BLM Seeks Bids for Two New Pasture Facilities in West: "As part of its responsibility to manage, protect, and control wild horses and burros, the Bureau of Land Management is soliciting bids for two new pasture facilities located west of the Mississippi River. Each pasture facility must be able to provide humane care for and maintain up to 1,500 wild horses and burros over a one-year period, starting about November 1, 2006, with an option under BLM contract for an additional four one-year extensions. The BLM needs additional space for wild horses and burros placed in long-term holding facilities, all of which are currently located in Kansas and Oklahoma."

Cocaine and Six Fugitives Intercepted by CBP Officers at Andrade Port of Entry

Cocaine and Six Fugitives Intercepted by CBP Officers at Andrade Port of Entry: ".S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers conducting routine border security operations at the Andrade border station apprehended six fugitives with outstanding warrants and intercepted 73 pounds of cocaine from September 2 through September 10, officials announced today. The six fugitives were wanted on local, state, and federal warrants. "

HUD, TREASURY, IRS DETAIL $10 BILLION IN TAX BREAKS FOR BUSINESSES IN GULF

HUD, TREASURY, IRS DETAIL $10 BILLION IN TAX BREAKS FOR BUSINESSES IN GULF: "Two-day forum designed to spark huge capital reinvestment in hurricane-affected areas and to promote $10 billion in a package of tax incentives designed to stimulate critically needed business activity and job growth. "

Attorney Honors Program: FCC to Accept Law Student Applications This Fall

Attorney Honors Program: FCC to Accept Law Student Applications This Fall: "The Federal Communications Commission today announced that it has created a fall application window for its 2007 Attorney Honors Program, to better accommodate law students who participate in the traditional fall interview process. As in previous years, the FCC will also seek applications from recent law graduates and graduating students in the spring. "

Attorney Honors Program: FCC to Accept Law Student Applications This Fall

Attorney Honors Program: FCC to Accept Law Student Applications This Fall: "The Federal Communications Commission today announced that it has created a fall application window for its 2007 Attorney Honors Program, to better accommodate law students who participate in the traditional fall interview process. As in previous years, the FCC will also seek applications from recent law graduates and graduating students in the spring. "

Student Loan Repayment:NIH Offers $35,000 in Annual Student Loan Repayment

Student Loan Repayment:NIH Offers $35,000 in Annual Student Loan Repayment: "Starting Friday, September 1, 2006, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will begin accepting applications to its five Loan Repayment Programs (LRPs). Deadline for applications is December 1, 2006."

Barbecue Grill Recall

Barbecue Grill Recall: "Operating the grill in windy conditions can blow the flame under the control panel, causing the grill to overheat or cause flashbacks. Flames could damage the hose that supplies gas to the burner, causing an uncontrolled flame. Also, the grill’s control knobs could overheat, resulting in burns to hands."

Endangered Species Update:U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Updates List of Candidates for Endangered Species Act Listing

Endangered Species Update:U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Updates List of Candidates for Endangered Species Act Listing: "The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today released its updated Candidate Notice of Review, a yearly appraisal of the candidate species list detailing those plants or animals that may warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Ten species have been removed from the candidate list and seven species have been added to the list since the last review in May 2005. There are now 279 species currently recognized by the Service as candidates for ESA protection."

FDIC Consumer Alert – September 11, 2006

FDIC Consumer Alert -"The FDIC has received a report of a new e-mail that has the appearance of being sent from the FDIC. However, instead of a typical phishing e-mail that might ask the recipient to click on a hyperlink to a spoofed Web site, this e-mail appears to deliver malicious software on to the recipient's computer"

NOAA Issues Unscheduled El Niño Advisory

NOAA Issues Unscheduled El Niño Advisory: "Scientists at the NOAA Climate Prediction Center reported today that El Niño conditions have developed in the tropical Pacific and are likely to continue into early 2007. Ocean temperatures increased remarkably in the equatorial Pacific during the last two weeks. 'Currently, weak El Niño conditions exist, but there is a potential for this event to strengthen into a moderate event by winter,' said Vernon Kousky, NOAA's lead El Niño forecaster."

Girls Gone Wild’ Pleads Guilty In Sexual Exploitation Case

Girls Gone Wild’ Pleads Guilty In Sexual Exploitation Case - A California company doing business under the name “Girls Gone Wild” has pleaded guilty to charges that it failed to create and maintain age and identity documents for performers in sexually explicit films that it produced and distributed, and that it failed to label its DVDs and videotapes as required by federal law, Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Gregory R. Miller of the Northern District of Florida announced today.

HUD's New RSS Feed will Alert Users of the Latest Fair Housing News

HUD's New RSS Feed will Alert Users of the Latest Fair Housing News: "HUD’S Office of Fair Housing And Equal Opportunity To Offer Really Simple Syndication (RSS) Feed On Its Web Page "

COPS Office Announces $14.8 Million in School Safety Grants

COPS Office Announces $14.8 Million in School Safety Grants: "Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) today announced $14.8 million in grants to 174 local law enforcement agencies to enhance school safety in 38 states. The grants were awarded under COPS Secure Our Schools program, which supports local efforts to improve security in schools and on school grounds."

HRSA Report Says 15 Percent of Children Are Overweight

HRSA Report Says 15 Percent of Children Are Overweight: "A new HRSA report finds that 14.8 percent of America’s 10- to 17-year-olds are overweight and that 71.3 percent of that age group exercise at least three days a week."

IRS Reminder: Taxpayers Should Check Mailing Addresses for Rev. Proc. 2006-1

IRS Reminder: Taxpayers Should Check Mailing Addresses for Rev. Proc. 2006-1: "Taxpayers seeking IRS Chief Counsel advice as outlined in Revenue Procedure 2006-1 are reminded to submit their requests and additional information to the addresses listed in the revenue procedure. There may be some confusion related to a previous new release, IR-2006-138, concerning which mailing address should be used."

SBA Applications are for Both Individuals and Business Owners

SBA Applications are for Both Individuals and Business Owners: "Following June's severe storms and flooding, many residents who applied for disaster assistance found they were issued a U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan application although they were not business owners. "