PandemicFlu.gov: Interim Guidance on Planning for the Use of Surgical Masks and Respirators in Health Care Settings during an Influenza Pandemic

PandemicFlu.gov: Interim Guidance on Planning for the Use of Surgical Masks and Respirators in Health Care Settings during an Influenza Pandemic: "the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has received numerous comments and inquiries regarding infection control recommendations that relate to surgical mask and respirator use (e.g., N-95 respirator"

Department of State to Introduce Passport Card

Department of State to Introduce Passport Card: "To meet the documentary requirements of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), the Department of State, in consultation with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), today announced and submitted for public comment a federal rule proposing the development of a card-format passport for international travel by U.S. citizens through land and sea ports of entry between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda."

Sony Computer Entertainment America Announces Extensive Line Up Of Game Titles For Playstation®3

Sony Computer Entertainment America Announces Extensive Line Up Of Game Titles For Playstation®3: "Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) today announced its debut game titles and unveiled the online strategy for its highly anticipated PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) system, the company’s groundbreaking computer entertainment system which will be available in North America on November 17, 2006."

ATTENTION - FRAUDULENT EMAIL PURPORTED TO BE REPRESENTING CONGRESSIONAL INTERESTS

ATTENTION - FRAUDULENT EMAIL PURPORTED TO BE REPRESENTING CONGRESSIONAL INTERESTS The author advises the recipient of the email is to receive refund money from outstanding bills as sited by the U.S. Senate. The bills are based on loans and disbursement agreements signed between the U.S. government and governments of various debtor United Nation countries.

Drug Abuse:State Estimates of Past Year Methamphetamine Use

In the United States, methamphetamine abuse and trafficking have been spreading eastward over the past decade, and the number of methamphetamine laboratories seized by U.S. law enforcement agencies increased 25 percent between 2001 and 2004

Social Security Announces 3.3 Percent Benefit Increase

Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits for more than 53 million Americans will increase 3.3 percent in 2007, the Social Security Administration announced today.

Grant Notice: Crime Scene Tools, Forensic Techniques, and Technologies Grant Opportunity

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is the research, development, and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice and a component of the Office of Justice Programs (OJP). NIJ provides objective, independent, evidence-based knowledge and tools to enhance the administration of justice and public safety

Grant Notice: Crime Scene Tools, Forensic Techniques, and Technologies Grant Opportunity

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is the research, development, and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice and a component of the Office of Justice Programs (OJP). NIJ provides objective, independent, evidence-based knowledge and tools to enhance the administration of justice and public safety

White Collar Crime: Operation Targets Bankruptcy Fraud

As part of an ongoing effort to maintain the continued integrity of the U.S. bankruptcy system, the FBI and other federal agencies announced on Wednesday that 78 defendants had been named in bankruptcy fraud cases across the nation in the past two months.

CDC Urges Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities to Increase Efforts to Reduce Drug-Resistant Infections

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today released new guidelines outlining strategies to prevent the spread of drug-resistant infections in healthcare settings. The new guidelines seek to halt the rising rates of drug-resistant infections by calling on hospitals and other healthcare facilities to make comprehensive infection control programs a priority and to take aggressive steps to reduces rates of drug resistance.

FAA Safety Organization Takes Off With ISO 9001

On October 16, the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Aviation Safety organization was recognized as the first federal agency to achieve certification to the prestigious International Organization for Standardization “ISO 9001:2000” quality management standard of a single corporate management system that covers multiple services, including national and international sites encompassing 6,462 employees.

FirstGov.gov Adds Two New Search Capabilities

FirstGov.gov Adds Two New Search Capabilities: "Two key features designed to allow citizens to locate news and images across federal government sources are now on FirstGov.gov, the government's official web portal, the U.S. General Services Administration today announced. "

New Federal Publication: Interest-Only Mortgage Payments and Payment-Option ARMs — Are They for You?

New Federal Publication: Interest-Only Mortgage Payments and Payment-Option ARMs — Are They for You?: "The federal bank, thrift, and credit union regulatory agencies today announced the publication of a new resource that can help consumers make more informed choices when considering nontraditional mortgage loans. Interest-Only Mortgage Payments and Payment-Option ARMs — Are They for You? features a glossary of lending terms, a mortgage shopping worksheet, and a list of additional information sources. This information can help consumers, whether buying a house or refinancing a mortgage, decide if an interest-only mortgage (an I-O mortgage) or an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) with the option to make a minimum payment (a payment-option ARM) is right for them. "

Workers' Compensation Premium Fraud: California Arrests of Four Suspects in Alleged $39 Million Workers' Compensation Premium Fraud Case

Workers' Compensation Premium Fraud: California Arrests of Four Suspects in Alleged $39 Million Workers' Compensation Premium Fraud Case: "Investigation exposed what is likely the largest amount of fraud committed against an insurance company in California; one suspect still at large"

Los Angeles Area Real Estate Scam: California Announces Felony Arrests...

Los Angeles Area Real Estate Scam:Attorney General Lockyer Announces Felony Arrests in Los Angeles Area Real Estate Scam That Takes Homes from Elderly, Infirm: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced the felony arrests of two Monterey Park residents in connection with a “squatter” scam in which the defendants victimized elderly and other homeowners by unlawfully taking possession of roughly 100 houses, and subsequently renting out the property and keeping the income for themselves. "

IRS Formalizes Appeals Arbitration Process

IRS Formalizes Appeals Arbitration Process: "The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the Appeals arbitration process is no longer a pilot program but part of business as usual at the IRS. In arbitration the IRS and the taxpayer agree to have a third party make a decision about a factual issue that will be binding on both of them."

Scam Alert:: FEMA Urges Residents to Beware of Scam Artists

Scam Alert:: FEMA Urges Residents to Beware of Scam Artists: "State and federal disaster officials warn that every disaster has its share of con artists trying to take advantage of disaster victims, so residents of Lake and Vanderburgh counties should be careful who they let into their homes or hire to make repairs. "

HUD Awards $47 Million In Grants To Help Families Across The U.S. Get Job-Training And Employment

HUD Awards $47 Million In Grants To Help Families Across The U.S. Get Job-Training And Employment: "U.S. Housing and Urban Development Deputy Secretary Roy A. Bernardi announced today that public housing agencies in 48 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico will receive $47,494,003 in funding to help low-income people get job training, employment and homeownership counseling. "

Reverse Mortgages: New Ginnie Mae Mortgage-Backed Security Could Help Lower Costs of Reverse Mortgages for Older Americans

Reverse Mortgages: New Ginnie Mae Mortgage-Backed Security Could Help Lower Costs of Reverse Mortgages for Older Americans: "Ginnie Mae today announced it is creating a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Mortgage-Backed Security (HECM MBS). The HECM MBS will allow approved issuers to securitize and sell their Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insured home equity conversion mortgage loans in the form of a Ginnie Mae MBS. HECMs are commonly referred to as reverse mortgages, and are designed to allow older homeowners to convert the equity in their homes to monthly streams of income or lines of credit"

Reverse Mortgages: New Ginnie Mae Mortgage-Backed Security Could Help Lower Costs of Reverse Mortgages for Older Americans

Reverse Mortgages: New Ginnie Mae Mortgage-Backed Security Could Help Lower Costs of Reverse Mortgages for Older Americans: "Ginnie Mae today announced it is creating a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Mortgage-Backed Security (HECM MBS). The HECM MBS will allow approved issuers to securitize and sell their Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insured home equity conversion mortgage loans in the form of a Ginnie Mae MBS. HECMs are commonly referred to as reverse mortgages, and are designed to allow older homeowners to convert the equity in their homes to monthly streams of income or lines of credit"

Reverse Mortgages: New Ginnie Mae Mortgage-Backed Security Could Help Lower Costs of Reverse Mortgages for Older Americans

Reverse Mortgages: New Ginnie Mae Mortgage-Backed Security Could Help Lower Costs of Reverse Mortgages for Older Americans: "Ginnie Mae today announced it is creating a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Mortgage-Backed Security (HECM MBS). The HECM MBS will allow approved issuers to securitize and sell their Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insured home equity conversion mortgage loans in the form of a Ginnie Mae MBS. HECMs are commonly referred to as reverse mortgages, and are designed to allow older homeowners to convert the equity in their homes to monthly streams of income or lines of credit"

Reverse Mortgages: New Ginnie Mae Mortgage-Backed Security Could Help Lower Costs of Reverse Mortgages for Older Americans

Reverse Mortgages: New Ginnie Mae Mortgage-Backed Security Could Help Lower Costs of Reverse Mortgages for Older Americans: "Ginnie Mae today announced it is creating a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Mortgage-Backed Security (HECM MBS). The HECM MBS will allow approved issuers to securitize and sell their Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insured home equity conversion mortgage loans in the form of a Ginnie Mae MBS. HECMs are commonly referred to as reverse mortgages, and are designed to allow older homeowners to convert the equity in their homes to monthly streams of income or lines of credit"

Fannie Mae Announces Fourth Quarter Common and Preferred Stock Dividends

Fannie Mae Announces Fourth Quarter Common and Preferred Stock Dividends; Company Maintains Common Stock Dividend of Twenty-Six Cents Per Share: "The Board of Directors of Fannie Mae (FNM/NYSE) today declared a fourth quarter dividend on the company's common stock of twenty-six cents ($0.26) per share, unchanged from the third quarter of 2006. The Board also declared dividends on the company's preferred stock in accordance with the terms of the preferred stock. "

DEA Helps Teachers Help Students to “Think Twice” About Drugs

DEA Helps Teachers Help Students to “Think Twice” About Drugs: "The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is providing a new tool to educators to help their students “just think twice” about the dangers of drugs. A new teachers’ guide based on DEA’s teen anti-drug website www.justthinktwice.com, has been published by DEA and is available to teachers for classroom use. The guide contains lesson plans and recommended activities for middle and high school students and covers a wide array of topics related to the consequences of drugs. The curriculum was previewed and vetted by educators who felt that it was a dynamic, hands-on approach which would help teach America’s youth about the dangers of drugs."

Earnings of Second-generation Americans

Earnings of Second-generation Americans: "In 2004, about 4.5 million second-generation workers aged 25 to 54 years and 60.8 million third-and-higher-generation workers in the same age group were employed full-time, year-round. "

Earnings of Second-generation Americans

Earnings of Second-generation Americans: "In 2004, about 4.5 million second-generation workers aged 25 to 54 years and 60.8 million third-and-higher-generation workers in the same age group were employed full-time, year-round. "

Science-Based Substance Abuse Prevention Planning System

Science-Based Substance Abuse Prevention Planning System: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the availability of Communities That Care (CTC) -- a science-based substance abuse prevention planning system for use by States and communities to help prevent drug and alcohol abuse before it starts. "

Adoption: Deadline to Apply for Accreditation or Approval Under the Hague Adoption Convention Set For November 17, 2006

Adoption: Deadline to Apply for Accreditation or Approval Under the Hague Adoption Convention Set For November 17, 2006: "Today's Federal Register announces the establishment of the transitional application deadline (TAD) for November 17, 2006. The TAD is the date by which adoption service providers in the United States need to submit an application if they wish to be accredited, temporarily accredited, or approved to handle Hague Convention adoptions when the Convention enters into force for the United States. The State Department's website at www.travel.state.gov links to the TAD notice in the Federal Register . "

IRS Announces Online Payment Agreement Application

IRS Announces Online Payment Agreement Application -Many individuals who owe delinquent federal income taxes will now be able to apply online for a payment agreement, the IRS announced today. The Online Payment Agreement (OPA) application, now available on IRS.gov, provides an easy way to voluntarily resolve tax liabilities.

IRS Grants Limited Tax Relief for Victims of Snowstorm in New York

IRS Grants Limited Tax Relief for Victims of Snowstorm in New York: "The Internal Revenue Service today announced limited tax relief for taxpayers in four New York counties that were struck by snowstorms beginning Oct. 12, 2006."

Drug-Free Work Week - Oct. 16 through 22

Drug-Free Work Week - Oct. 16 through 22: "U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today launched the first Drug-Free Work Week, Oct. 16 through 22, and renewed a collaborative effort between the Department of Labor and members of its Drug-Free Workplace Alliance. "

Job Fair Scheduled for November 9 in Virginia - National Veterans Employment Summit

Job Fair Scheduled for November 9 in Virginia - National Veterans Employment Summit: "Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today invited employers and hiring executives from across the country to participate in the first-ever National Veterans Employment Summit to be held Nov. 9 at the Scope Arena in Norfolk, Va."

Grant Opportunity: Lebanon Education Assistance for Development

Grant Opportunity: Lebanon Education Assistance for Development: "The United States Agency for International Development’s Mission to Lebanon (USAID/Lebanon) invites applications for a Cooperative Agreement to address the strengthening of public education systems in areas of greatest need in the: (1) North Lebanon Governorate, (2) Beqaa, Mount Lebanon and Beirut Governorates, and (3) South Lebanon and Nabatiyeh Governorates. "

New Love and Kisses Stamps Debut in 2007 - Seal Love Letters With a Kiss

New Love and Kisses Stamps Debut in 2007 - Seal Love Letters With a Kiss: "Love and the sweet smell of chocolate filled the air today during an exclusive event at Hershey's Chicago. The U.S. Postal Service unveiled the 2007 With Love and Kisses stamp, to be released next January."

California Announces Final Decision to Expand Low Cost Automobile Insurance Program to Monterey, Sonoma, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties

California Announces Final Decision to Expand Low Cost Automobile Insurance Program to Monterey, Sonoma, and Ventura Counties: "Insurance Commissioner Garamendi today announced his decision to expand the California Low Cost Automobile Insurance program to Monterey, Sonoma, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. The announcement follows his final determination that the program, which provides eligible low income good drivers with state-required liability insurance for under $400 a year, is necessary and desirable in those counties. Rates are set in each county so that premiums are sufficient to cover losses and expenses incurred in each county. "

How can I get rid of SPAM mail?

How can I get rid of SPAM mail?: "In the fight against spam, Attorney General Lockyer filed the first consumer protection lawsuit on behalf of the state against a California company and two owners/operators for sending unsolicited, commercial emails in violation of state law.
Since 1998, California has prohibited individuals and companies from sending commercial email to those who have neither requested nor consented to receive the email, or with whom they do not have an existing business or personal relationship, unless: The sender has either established a toll-free telephone number that recipients can call to stop future emails or included a valid email address that recipients can contact to stop future emails; and The subject line of the email begins with the four characters 'ADV:' designating it as commercial communication, or 'ADV:ADLT' designating it as sexual, adult material.
"

President Declares Emergency Federal Aid For New York

President Declares Emergency Federal Aid For New York: "WASHINGTON - The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal aid to has been made available to supplement state and local response efforts in the area struck by a lake effect snowstorm on October 12, 2006, and continuing."

FBI Releases its 2005 Statistics on Hate Crime

FBI Releases its 2005 Statistics on Hate Crime: "Washington, D.C.—According to statistics released today by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 7,163 criminal incidents involving 8,380 offenses were reported in 2005 as a result of bias toward a particular race, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity/national origin, or physical or mental disability. Hate Crime Statistics, 2005, published by the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program, includes data from hate crime reports submitted by city, county, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies throughout the Nation."

How to Get into Nursing School - California Healthcare Pathways

How to Get into Nursing School - California Healthcare Pathways: "In the midst of California’s nursing shortage, the lack of openings within nursing programs has continued to hinder the acceptance of enough students needed for its resolve. In fact, of the estimated 325 students that applied to CSU, Sacramento’s (CSUS) nursing program last year, only 63 were admitted. Indeed, the scarce capacity results in very competitive requirements for the over-abundance of applicants. So what makes a student desirable to these programs? The "

Homeowner And Renter Assistance Filing Period Ends Monday, October 16, 2006

Homeowner And Renter Assistance Filing Period Ends Monday, October 16, 2006: "This program allows a once-a-year payment from the State of California to qualified individuals based on part of the property taxes assessed and paid on their homes. For the 2006 claim year, the maximum amount of assistance that an eligible homeowner may receive is $472.60, which is 139 percent of the property taxes paid of the first $34,000 of full value of the home (139% x $340.00). You may be eligible to file a 2006 claim if you are a United States citizen, designated alien or qualified alien when you file your claim and you met the following criteria on December 31, 2005:"

METHAMPHETAMINE USE INCREASING AMONG STATE AND FEDERAL PRISONERS

METHAMPHETAMINE USE INCREASING AMONG STATE AND FEDERAL PRISONERS: "Prior methamphetamine use among state and federal prisoners has increased since 1997, according to a new report by the Justice Department's Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS). The use of methamphetamines in the month before an offense rose from 7 percent of state prisoners in 1997 to 11 percent in 2004. Methamphetamine use at the time of an offense rose from 4 percent to 6 percent during that period. Federal inmates reported similar increases in methamphetamine use."

New Government Auction Site Debuts to Public - Great Deals at Low Cost!

New Government Auction Site Debuts to Public - Great Deals at Low Cost!: "Washington, DC – The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) today announced the launch of GovSales.gov, the Federal Asset Sales E-Gov Initiative’s new web site that provides single-point, public access to surplus, seized or forfeited assets for sale by the Federal government."

Community Dispatch - Government News You Can Use for Everyday Life

Time Running Out to Register for First-Ever Cyber Safety Summit - October 18, 2006: "Space is filling up quickly for the 2006 California Cyber Safety Summit: Protecting Children Online. The summit will bring together hundreds of parents, educators, technology industry representatives, law enforcement personnel, prosecutors, children’s advocates and others to share information about cyber dangers and best practices for teaching children the safe, smart and legal ways to surf the Internet."

DNA From Sexual Assaults To Be Analyzed Within Five Days

DNA From Sexual Assaults To Be Analyzed Within Five Days: "BEVERLY HILLS) B Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced the launch of a $1.1 million Fast Track Forensic Program, a pilot effort to process DNA evidence from sexual assault cases within five days, researching evidence collection techniques, and enhancing the use of forensics in acquaintance rape cases. Lockyer made the announcement at an annual benefit for the Rape Treatment Center at Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center (RTC). "

End of U.S. Sale of Flavored Cigarettes: Attorney General Lockyer Announces Historic Agreement

End of U.S. Sale of Flavored Cigarettes: Attorney General Lockyer Announces Historic Agreement Between 39 Jurisdictions and R.J. Reynolds to End U.S. Sale of Flavored Cigarettes: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced he and the Attorneys General of 38 other jurisdictions have entered a settlement with R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company (RJR) that ends RJR’s sale in the United States of its candy, fruit and alcohol-flavored cigarettes"

Free CEU, CME and CNE: Revised Recommendations for HIV Testing of Adults, Adolescents, and Pregnant Women in Health-Care Settings

Free CEU, CME and CNE: Revised Recommendations for HIV Testing of Adults, Adolescents, and Pregnant Women in Health-Care Settings: "This activity for 1.8 contact hours is provided by CDC, which is accredited as a provider of continuing education in nursing by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation"

Save the Date: 2006 California Cyber Safety Summit: Protecting Children Online, October 18, 2006

Save the Date: 2006 California Cyber Safety Summit: Protecting Children Online, October 18, 2006: "Space is filling up quickly for the 2006 California Cyber Safety Summit: Protecting Children Online. The summit will bring together hundreds of parents, educators, technology industry representatives, law enforcement personnel, prosecutors, children’s advocates and others to share information about cyber dangers and best practices for teaching children the safe, smart and legal ways to surf the Internet."

Nontraditional Mortgage Products: Feds Issue Final Guidance on Nontraditional Mortgage Product Risks

Nontraditional Mortgage Products: Feds Issue Final Guidance on Nontraditional Mortgage Product Risks: "These products, referred to variously as “nontraditional,” “alternative,” or “exotic” mortgage loans (referred to below as nontraditional mortgage loans), include “interest-only” mortgages and “payment option” adjustable-rate mortgages. These products allow borrowers to exchange lower payments during an initial period for higher payments later."

Preventing Violence and Violence-Related Injury Grant

Preventing Violence and Violence-Related Injury Grant: "CDC’s Procurement and Grants Office has published a funding opportunity announcement entitled, “Research for Preventing Violence and Violence-Related Injury (R01.” $1.8 million [this amount is an estimate, and subject to the availability of funds] will be available in fiscal year 2007 to fund five to six awards. The purpose of this program is to expand and advance the understanding of violence, its causes, and prevention strategies. The estimated funding date is August 31, 2007"

Your Credit Scores: Why Do Your Scores Matter?

Your Credit Scores: Why Do Your Scores Matter?: "A credit score is a number that helps lenders and others predict how likely you are to make your credit payments on time. Each score is based on the information then in your credit report. Credit scores affect whether you can get credit and what you pay for credit cards, auto loans, mortgages and other kinds of credit. For most kinds of credit scores, higher scores mean you are more likely to be approved and pay a lower interest rate on new credit.
Want to rent an apartment? Without good scores, your apartment application may be turned down by the landlord. Your scores also may determine how big a deposit you will have to pay for telephone, electricity or natural gas service."

The Student Aid Audio Guide

The Student Aid Audio Guide: "The Student Aid Audio Guide is a simulated telephone conversation between a student and a customer service representative at our Federal Student Aid Information Center, which explains to students how they can apply for and receive aid from the U.S. Department of Education's Federal Student Aid Programs for education beyond high school. The Audio Guide provides an overview of our programs"

FEMA Public Assistance To New York Tops $20 Million

FEMA Public Assistance To New York Tops $20 Million: "ALBANY, N.Y. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has obligated more than $20 million in Public Assistance (PA) funds to help New York counties repair flood damage and rebuild infrastructure damaged or destroyed in the June flooding."

FEMA Public Assistance To New York Tops $20 Million

FEMA Public Assistance To New York Tops $20 Million: "ALBANY, N.Y. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has obligated more than $20 million in Public Assistance (PA) funds to help New York counties repair flood damage and rebuild infrastructure damaged or destroyed in the June flooding."

Prison Overcrowding: Governor Schwarzenegger Uses Executive Authority to Relieve Prison Overcrowding, Proclaims Emergency to Allow Inmate Transfer

Prison Overcrowding: Governor Schwarzenegger Uses Executive Authority to Relieve Prison Overcrowding, Proclaims Emergency to Allow Inmate Transfer: "Governor Schwarzenegger issued an emergency proclamation for California's prison system today, citing severe overcrowding as a threat to health and safety in 29 of the State's 33 prisons. The emergency proclamation will allow Corrections officials to immediately contract with out-of-state correctional facilities to temporarily house California inmates"

Got Mold? Clean, Disinfect And Dry

Got Mold? Clean, Disinfect And Dry: "Mold is commonplace along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast due to the area’s warm and humid climate. However, the solution to the problem is relatively simple.
Care should be taken to clean and dry the areas of the home where moisture tends to accumulate. This advice applies to travel trailers and mobile homes. Site-constructed houses are particularly vulnerable if they sustained floodwaters during Katrina."

Google Grants for Non-Profit Organizations

Google Grants for Non-Profit Organizations: "Google Grants is accepting applications for its In-Kind Advertising for Non-Profit Organizations program. The Google Grants program supports organizations sharing our philosophy of community service to help the world in areas such as science and technology, education, global public health, the environment, youth advocacy, and the arts"

Substance Abuse :Tribal Initiatives to Promote Mental Health and Prevent Substance Abuse and Mental Illness Receive More than $49 Million

Substance Abuse :Tribal Initiatives to Promote Mental Health and Prevent Substance Abuse and Mental Illness Receive More than $49 Million in FY 2006 SAMHSA Grants After implementing a new policy that American Indians and Alaska Natives will be eligible for all discretionary grants, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has awarded $49.3 million in FY 2006 grant funding for 14 new, and one supplemental, discretionary grants to tribal organizations for prevention, treatment and recovery support services. The announcement was made by Assistant Surgeon General Eric Broderick, D.D.S., M.P.H., SAMHSA’s Acting Deputy Administrator, during his October 4 presentation to the National Congress of American Indians 63rd Annual Convention in Sacramento, California.

Seasonal Affective Disorder: Free, Anonymous Mental Health Screenings Available Nationwide on October 5

Seasonal Affective Disorder: Free, Anonymous Mental Health Screenings Available Nationwide on October 5: "If you think you may be suffering from season affective disorder, thousands of sites across the country will be offering free, anonymous screenings for depression and other related disorders as part of NDSD Mental Health Screening events on October 5. As part of the program, attendees will have the opportunity to take a brief, written questionnaire and talk to a health professional about their results. Those who score positive will be referred to local treatment resources. "

Railroad Retirement Spouse and Widow(er)s' Annuities and Public Service Pensions

Railroad Retirement Spouse and Widow(er)s' Annuities and Public Service Pensions: "Railroad Retirement Act spouse and widow(er)s’ annuities (including divorced spouse, surviving divorced spouse and remarried widow(er)s’ annuities) are subject to reduction when social security benefits or dual railroad retirement annuities are also payable. Such railroad retirement benefits may also be reduced when a spouse or widow(er) is entitled to a public service pension unless certain exemption requirements are met."

MUtual Funds:FinCEN Issues Guidance on Suspicious Activity Reporting Requirements for Mutual Funds

MUtual Funds:FinCEN Issues Guidance on Suspicious Activity Reporting Requirements for Mutual Funds: "The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network today issued guidance designed to assist mutual funds in complying with their suspicious transaction reporting requirement. Under a final rule, mutual funds must file reports with FinCEN that identify and describe transactions that raise suspicions of illegal activity. The requirement to file Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) applies to transactions occurring after October 31, 2006"

Substance Abuse Use Remains at Lowest level for California Students

Substance Abuse Use Remains at Lowest level for California Students: "Drinking alcohol, the most popular substance with teens, was reported by 61 percent of 11th graders, 47 percent of 9th and 27 percent of 7th graders in the six months prior to the survey. Use of marijuana, the second most popular substance, was reported by 30 percent of 11th graders, 19 percent of 9th and 7 percent of 7th graders. "

Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Program

Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Program: "During this fiscal year, the Federal Government won or negotiated approximately $1.47 billion in judgments and settlements, and it attained additional administrative impositions in health care fraud cases and proceedings. The Medicare Trust Fund received transfers of nearly $1.55 billion during this period as a result of these efforts, as well as those of preceding years, in addition to $63.64 million in federal Medicaid money similarly transferred to CMS as a result of these efforts."

Bicycle Saddles and Reproductive Health - Potential Health Effects of Prolonged Bicycling

Bicycle Saddles and Reproductive Health - Potential Health Effects of Prolonged Bicycling: "Over the last several years, NIOSH researchers have investigated the potential health effects of prolonged bicycling in police bicycle patrol units, including the possibility that some bicycle saddles exert excessive pressure on the urogenital area of cyclists, restricting blood flow to the genitals. "

IRS Seeks Enrolled Agents - Testing Begins October 5th

IRS Seeks Enrolled Agents - Testing Begins October 5th: "The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the new version of the 2006 IRS Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) is ready. The test, required for those who want to become Enrolled Agents, has been substantially revised and is being offered more often and in more places than in the past. The first testing window begins October 5, 2006."

Maine Earthquake Lowers Ground Water- Water in Monitoring Well Still Dropping

Maine Earthquake Lowers Ground Water- Water in Monitoring Well Still Dropping: "A minor earthquake that shook Maine Oct. 2 at 8:07 pm caused the water level in a U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) monitoring well to drop more than 2 ½ feet. Nearly 17 hours later, the groundwater level was still dropping, according to scientists at the USGS Maine Water Science Center in Augusta. Hydrologists call the change in the well “dramatic,” and note that well-water users could notice changes in their drinking water. USGS hydrologists will continue to monitor this well several times per day. "

Window Coverings Pose Strangulation Hazards to Children

Window Coverings Pose Strangulation Hazards to Children: "October is Window Covering Safety Month and CPSC, the Window Covering Safety Council and independent retailers have joined forces to urge consumers to repair or replace window coverings purchased before 2001"

Two Weeks Left To Apply For Disaster Assistance

Two Weeks Left To Apply For Disaster Assistance: "El PASO, Texas -- The deadline to apply for disaster assistance is quickly approaching. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is encouraging those affected by the storms or flooding from July 27, to August 25, 2006 to register for assistance by October 16, 2006."

2007 Biometrics Technologies Grant

2007 Biometrics Technologies Grant: "NIJ solicits proposals to inform its search for the knowledge and tools to guide policy and practice. NIJ is seeking applications for funding the development and evaluation of biometric technologies, or novel applications of biometric technologies, that will (1) reduce crime, (2) enhance law enforcement and corrections officers’ ability to correctly identify cooperative and non-cooperative individuals, and (3) fix the identity of individuals in the justice system.

Link to Full Announcement"

Grant Opportunity: Detroit Lions Charities Health and Education Grants

Grant Opportunity: Detroit Lions Charities Health and Education Grants: "Detroit Lions Charities is accepting applications for its Health and Education Grants program to benefit children. Eligible applicants include public, tax-exempt charities that benefit the children in the Michigan area."

HHS Partners With States On Long-Term Care Education Efforts

HHS Partners With States On Long-Term Care Education Efforts: "The Department of Health and Human Services has announced a partnership with six states that would help Americans take an active role in planning ahead for their future long-term care needs.
Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Texas were chosen to participate in the next round of HHS’ “Own Your Future' campaign, an aggressive education and outreach effort designed to promote long-term care planning among state residents. These six states were selected from 16 applications received in response to HHS’ invitation for proposals."

Celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 8-14

Celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 8-14: "National Wildlife Refuge Week features scores of festivals and special events that help connect people with nature at the country's 545 national wildlife refuges. The 11th consecutive National Wildlife Refuge Week will be celebrated this year October 8-14. "

Methamphetamine Use Varies Widely Across States and Remains Highest Among Young Adults

Methamphetamine Use Varies Widely Across States and Remains Highest Among Young Adults: "A new study from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) continues to show that individuals in the 18-25 age group are the most likely to be using methamphetamine. The NSDUH Report: State Estimates of Past Year Methamphetamine Use is based on data combined from the last four years of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The combined data from more than 250,000 people who were surveyed for this report give a more detailed picture of who is using the drug than in previous SAMHSA reports and marks the first time that SAMHSA has provided data by age groups within states for methamphetamine use. "

Additional Toyota and Lexus Vehicles Certified for the Energy Tax Credit

Additional Toyota and Lexus Vehicles Certified for the Energy Tax Credit: "The Internal Revenue Service acknowledged the certification by Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc., that several of their hybrid Model Year 2007 vehicles qualify for the hybrid tax credit enacted by the Energy Policy Act of 2005"

Update: MEDICARE 101

Update: MEDICARE 101: "This tutorial provides a concise overview of Medicare, including the latest information on financing and spending, the new drug benefit, and discussion of major policy issues"

Just Released: Youth Exposure to Alcohol Advertising on Radio --- United States, June--August 2004

Just Released: Youth Exposure to Alcohol Advertising on Radio --- United States, June--August 2004 In the United States, more underage youth drink alcohol than smoke tobacco or use illicit drugs . Excessive alcohol consumption leads to many adverse health and social consequences and results in approximately 4,500 deaths among underage youth each year . Recent studies have emphasized the contribution of alcohol marketing to underage drinking and have demonstrated that a substantial proportion of alcohol advertising appears in media for which the audience composition is youth-oriented (i.e., composed disproportionately of persons aged 12--20 years).

Internet Domain Names: ICANN Joint Project Agreement on the Coordination of Internet Domain Name and Addressing System

Internet Domain Names: ICANN Joint Project Agreement on the Coordination of Internet Domain Name and Addressing System: "The Commerce Department today announced it has signed a Joint Project Agreement with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) to continue the transition of the coordination of the technical functions relating to the management of the Internet Domain Name and Addressing System to the private sector. It focuses on institutionalizing transparency and accountability mechanisms in the management of the Internet domain name and addressing system. "

Disability Discrimination : Justice Department Settles Allegations of Disability Discrimination

Disability Discrimination : Justice Department Settles Allegations of Disability Discrimination: "The Justice Department today settled a lawsuit against 10 Austin, Texas developers, builders, architects, and engineers alleging disability discrimination in the design and construction of two housing developments in Austin. The suit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, was brought to enforce provisions of the federal Fair Housing Act that require recently constructed dwellings to include features designed to make the dwellings more accessible to persons with physical disabilities."

CMS Seeks Additional Medicare Administrative Contractors

CMS Seeks Additional Medicare Administrative Contractors: "The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for new Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) that will streamline the processes to pay Medicare claims and answer providers’ questions about Medicare payments for services."

Understanding Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

Understanding Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP): "Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a form of communication that allows you to make phone calls over a broadband internet connection instead of typical analog telephone lines. Basic VoIP access usually allows you to call others who are also receiving calls over the internet. Interconnected VoIP services also allow you to make and receive calls to and from traditional landline numbers, usually for a service fee."

FDIC Consumer Alert: Phishing e-mail Attempt

FDIC Consumer Alert: Phishing E-mail Attempt: "The FDIC has received reports by businesses and consumers of a phishing e-mail that has the appearance of being sent from the FDIC. The fraudulent e-mails appear in 'memo format,' on FDIC Office of the Inspector General (OIG) letterhead, and is purportedly from 'Russell A. Rau, Assistant Inspector General for Audits.' The memo includes the recipient's name and address in the 'To' line. The 'Subject' line states, 'Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection's Risk-Focused Compliance Examination Process for [name inserted] (Report No. 05-038).' Note: The fraudulent e-mail use some genuine language obtained from an actual OIG audit report."

U.S. Grants Assist Community Development and Promote Democracy in Ethiopia

U.S. Grants Assist Community Development and Promote Democracy in Ethiopia: "For 70% of the children living in the rural Mella-Qawusa district of Gama Gofa Zone, the possibility of walking four hours to and from school was about as likely as regular rainfall in this drought-prone region. The children often do not have the stamina to make the difficult journey, and even if distance weren’t a factor, fetching water for their family and herding livestock are the first priorities."

Binge Eating Disorder:Guided Self-Help Treatment for Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder:Guided Self-Help Treatment for Binge Eating Disorder: "This study will determine the effectiveness of guided self-help (GSH) treatment in treating individuals with binge eating disorder (BED). "

Workers' Compensation Rates:John Garamendi Anticipates Reducing Workers' Compensation Rates for California Employers

Workers' Compensation Rates:John Garamendi Anticipates Reducing Workers' Compensation Rates for California Employers: "Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi today announced he will likely recommend a further reduction in workers’ compensation insurance rates of at least an additional 6.3%. Based on pre-reform trends, the Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau (WCIRB) estimates that such a reduction would result in cumulative savings to the system of $10 billion to $14 billion since 2003."

California Health Care Crisis: John Garamendi Calls for Reform of State’s Broken Health Care System in Weekly Radio Address

California Health Care Crisis: John Garamendi Calls for Reform of State’s Broken Health Care System in Weekly Radio Address: "Today, in California, more than 6 million people live without health insurance. Day to day they struggle to survive while teetering on the brink of financial ruin. One unexpected hospitalization could wipe out their savings, their home, and quite possibly their future."

OSHA Cites Contractor for Fatalities in Boston Scaffold Collapse

OSHA Cites Contractor for Fatalities in Boston Scaffold Collapse: "The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Bostonian Masonry for eight alleged violations of safety standards in connection with three fatalities on April 3 during a scaffold collapse at 150 Boylston St. in Boston. The Walpole, Mass., masonry contractor faces $119,000 in proposed fines."

Methamphetamine Use Varies Widely Across States and Remains Highest Among Young Adults

Methamphetamine Use Varies Widely Across States and Remains Highest Among Young Adults: "A new study from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) continues to show that individuals in the 18-25 age group are the most likely to be using methamphetamine. The NSDUH Report: State Estimates of Past Year Methamphetamine"

FEMA Public Assistance To New York Tops $14 Million

FEMA Public Assistance To New York Tops $14 Million: "The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has obligated more than $14 million in Public Assistance (PA) funds to help New York counties repair flood damage and rebuild infrastructure damaged or destroyed in the June flooding."

Denny’s Restaurant Sued by EEOC for Disability Bias Against Class of Workers Nationwide

Denny’s Restaurant Sued by EEOC for Disability Bias Against Class of Workers Nationwide: "The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced today that it filed a federal discrimination lawsuit under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) against Denny’s, Inc., which operates more than 500 corporate-owned restaurants in 30 states, on behalf of disabled employees nationwide who were not provided reasonable accommodation and were fired after being denied medical leave needed in connection with their disabilities."

$10 Million Awarded to Fight Methamphetamine in Rural America

$10 Million Awarded to Fight Methamphetamine in Rural America: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the award of seven grants, totaling nearly $10 million over three years, to provide treatment for methamphetamine abuse and other emerging drugs for adults residing in rural communities. These new grants, and 17 previously awarded through this program in 2004 and 2005, support substance abuse treatment in areas among the hardest hit by methamphetamine abuse over the past decade, enabling rural communities to provide more comprehensive, integrated care for adults using methamphetamines or other emerging drugs of abuse."

HRSA Awards $50 Million to Improve and Promote Transplantation

HRSA Awards $50 Million to Improve and Promote Transplantation: "The Health Resources and Services Administration, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, recently awarded funds totaling almost $50 million to support a variety of activities meant to improve and encourage organ, tissue, bone marrow, cord blood and circulating blood stem cell donations."

SAMHSA Awards $6.7 Million in Grants to States to Strengthen Substance Abuse Treatment Access/Retention

SAMHSA Awards $6.7 Million in Grants to States to Strengthen Substance Abuse Treatment Access/Retention: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the award of seven cooperative agreements totaling $6.7 million over 3 years under the Strengthening Treatment Access and Retention – State Implementation (STAR-SI) program to help states identify and implement methods to enhance individual access to and retention in community-based outpatient substance abuse treatment programs"

Small Business Workshop: Overseas Investment in Developing Countries.

Small Business Workshop: Overseas Investment in Developing Countries.: "The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) invites you to participate in the Expanding Horizon workshops, co-hosted by MBDA and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC). In 2006, the Expanding Horizons workshop will be held in Atlanta on September 28th, in Chicago on October 12th and in Los Angeles on November 16th to inform minority entrepreneurs about government programs available to support overseas investment in developing countries. MBDA knows that minority and women-owned small businesses face unique challenges that prevent their businesses from expanding overseas."

Bankruptcy Basics

Bankruptcy Basics: "Bankruptcy Basics provides basic information to debtors, creditors, court personnel, the media, and the general public on different aspects of the federal bankruptcy laws. It also provides individuals who may be considering bankruptcy with a basic explanation of the different chapters under which a bankruptcy case may be filed and to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about the bankruptcy process"

SAMHSA Awards $10.6 Million for Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for Pregnant and Postpartum Women

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the award of eight grants totaling $10.6 million over three years to expand the availability of comprehensive residential treatment services for pregnant and postpartum women, their children and family members.

FAQ on California Gasoline Prices

FAQ on California Gasoline Prices: "Gasoline-Saving Tips and More

Defending Cell Phones and PDAs Against Attack

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

New FAA Forum to Review Age 60 Rule For Pilots

New FAA Forum to Review Age 60 Rule For Pilots: "Since 1959, the FAA has required that all U.S. pilots stop flying commercial airplanes at age 60. In November, ICAO, the United Nations’ aviation organization, will increase the upper age limit for pilots to age 65, provided that one of the two pilots in the cockpit is under age 60"

SAMHSA Awards $21.9 Million for Mental Health Transformation State Incentive Grants

SAMHSA Awards $21.9 Million for Mental Health Transformation State Incentive Grants: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today announced the award of two new Mental Health Transformation State Incentive grants totaling $21.9 million over five years. The grants support infrastructure and service delivery improvements that will help build a solid foundation for delivering and sustaining effective mental health and related services."

13 Million US Women Suffer Pain with Sex

13 Million US Women Suffer Pain with Sex: " frequently overlooked and under-researched chronic pain disorder, which affects 16% of women (one out of six) in the United States, is gaining the attention it has long warranted. In the past few months, two prominent medical organizations, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), have disseminated important documents on vulvodynia to their 150,000 cumulative members, alerting them to this often misdiagnosed and inappropriately treated women’s health condition. "

Girls Gone Wild” Founder Joseph Francis Pleads Guilty In Sexual Exploitation Case - Agrees to Pay $500,000 Fine

Girls Gone Wild” Founder Joseph Francis Pleads Guilty In Sexual Exploitation Case - Agrees to Pay $500,000 Fine: "Joseph Francis, founder, CEO and sole shareholder of two California companies doing business under the name “Girls Gone Wild,” has pleaded guilty to charges that he failed to create and maintain age and identity documents for performers in sexually explicit films produced and distributed by Girls Gone Wild, as required by federal law, Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division announced today. "