IRS User Fees for Installment Agreement to Increase

IRS User Fees for Installment Agreement to Increase: "The Internal Revenue Service announced today increases in user fees for installment agreements. The increases — the first since the fees were implemented in 1995 — result from increases in labor and other costs of processing the various applications."

Scam Alert: Social Security Cost of Living E-mail Scam

Scam Alert: Social Security Cost of Living E-mail Scam: "The Social Security Administration Agency has received several reports of an email message being circulated with the subject “Cost-of-Living for 2007 update” and purporting to be from the Social Security Administration. The message provides information about the 3.3 percent benefit increase for 2007 and contains the following “NOTE: We now need you to update your personal information. If this is not completed by November 11, 2006, we will be forced to suspend your account indefinitely.” The reader is then directed to a website designed to look like Social Security’s Internet website."

New Publication:TMJ Disorders

New Publication:TMJ Disorders: "Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, commonly called 'TMJ,' are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. We don’t know for certain how many people have TMJ disorders, but some estimates suggest that over 10 million Americans are affected. The condition appears to be more common in women than men."

The National Institute on Drug Abuse Announces Summer Internship Opportunities

The National Institute on Drug Abuse Announces Summer Internship Opportunities: "The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is offering summer research training opportunities at their facility in Baltimore, Maryland. Students who are accepted to the program will work side-by-side with some of the world's leading scientists, in an environment devoted exclusively to cutting-edge biomedical research. "

FinCEN Advises Financial Industry on Potential Risks of Shell Companies

FinCEN Advises Financial Industry on Potential Risks of Shell Companies " The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) today issued an advisory to U.S. financial institutions on identifying, assessing and managing the potential risks associated with accounts maintained for shell companies. Today's advisory is being released along with an assessment that shows that shell companies can be exploited by money launderers and other perpetrators of financial crime because of the lack of transparency in the formation process and the inability to identify beneficial owners."

Mortgage Loan Fraud:FinCEN Assessment Reveals Suspected Mortgage Loan Fraud Continues to Rise

Mortgage Loan Fraud:FinCEN Assessment Reveals Suspected Mortgage Loan Fraud Continues to Rise: "An assessment released today by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) reveals that suspected mortgage loan fraud in the United States continues to rise, and has risen 35 percent in the past year."

November Is Diabetes Awareness Month

November Is Diabetes Awareness Month: "November is National Diabetes Awareness Month and once again your opportunity to learn more about diabetes and the risks associated with it. Diabetes is a serious disease that affects the body's ability to produce or respond properly to insulin, a hormone that allows blood glucose (sugar) to enter the cells of the body and be used for energy. Nearly 21 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes, and it is the fifth deadliest disease in the nation. Diabetes has no cure. "

Heartburn or Heart Attack? Preventing GERD Emergencies

Heartburn or Heart Attack? Preventing GERD Emergencies: "Up to 60 percent of patients with NCCP will be diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, which affects more than 21 million Americans. (Chest pain or discomfort should prompt urgent medical evaluation."

Amtrak Free Travel Companion Offer for Campus Visits

Amtrak Free Travel Companion Offer for Campus Visits: "Amtrak is pleased to offer the Campus Visit Discount. This discount allows high school juniors and seniors visiting a college campus to take one parent or guardian along as a free companion."

Free CEU: What’s New in Tuberculosis?

Free CEU: What’s New in Tuberculosis?: "Laboratory services are essential in diagnosing and treating patients with tuberculosis. Explore the challenges facing mycobacteriology laboratories today."

Apply For Disaster Aid Before The Dec. 5 Deadline

Apply For Disaster Aid Before The Dec. 5 Deadline: "INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- The Dec. 5 deadline to apply for disaster assistance is drawing near for Indiana residents affected by September’s severe storms and flooding, say officials from the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security"

Testicular Cancer: Study of Individuals and Families at High Risk for Testicular Cancer

Testicular Cancer: Study of Individuals and Families at High Risk for Testicular Cancer: "The purpose of the study to identify new families with familial testicular cancer to determine genetic susceptibility"

Marijuana Abuse:A Brief Marijuana Intervention for Adolescent Women

Marijuana Abuse:A Brief Marijuana Intervention for Adolescent Women: "The purpose of this study is to examine the efficacy of a brief motivational intervention on marijuana use and sex-risk behavior in young women."

Asthma Inhaler: New Combination Inhaler in Patients With Asthma

Asthma Inhaler: New Combination Inhaler in Patients With Asthma: "The purpose of this study is to evaluate the long-term safety of the fixed combination asthma drug FlutiForm HFA MDI (containing fluticasone propionate and formoterol fumarate) in adult and adolescent patients with mild to moderate-severe asthma."

Mitigation Saves Time, Money And, Possibly, Lives

Officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) are stressing the importance of using hazard mitigation measures when rebuilding, remodeling or building new construction to save time, money and, possibly, lives when future disasters strike.

Patriot’s Day 2007 Gives Some Taxpayers Extra Tax Time

Individuals in six eastern states and the District of Columbia will have an extra day until April 17, 2007, to file their 2006 returns and pay any taxes due according to the Internal Revenue Service.

Update: California Car Buyer's Bill of Rights

A new law establishing the “Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights” substantially impacts the purchase of new and used vehicles. This new law, which takes effect July 1, 2006, affects retail vehicle sales handled by licensed car dealers in California. This new law does not apply to transactions between private parties, motorcycles, or off-highway vehicles.

Car Rental: California Sues Car Rental Company for Illegal Surcharges

Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced a $700,000-plus settlement of a consumer protection lawsuit against Fox Rent A Car, Inc. that alleges the largest California-based independent car rental company illegally slapped surcharges on those who traveled outside a three-state area and unlawfully forced customers to buy liability insurance.

PEPFAR Ethiopia funds state-of-the-art renovation of Ethiopia’s National HIV/AIDS Reference Laboratory

Addis Ababa (CDC-Ethiopia): Dr. Deborah L. Birx, Director of the Global AIDS Program at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with Dr. Tedros Adhanom, Minister of Health of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, presided over a ceremony to mark the completion of a state-of-the art renovation of Ethiopia’s National HIV/AIDS Reference Laboratory at the Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute (EHNRI).

Free Tours: Hoover Dam Tours Free on Veteran's Day

Waiver of Fees for Veterans and Member of U.S. Armed Forces on Veterans Day

Bureau of Land Management Director Kathleen Clarke announced today that, beginning this Veterans Day (Nov. 11), U.S. veterans, members of the U.S. armed forces and their families will be admitted free-of-charge on the holiday to most public lands managed by the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture.

2007 Inflation Adjustments Widen Tax Brackets, Expand Tax Benefits

Personal exemptions and standard deductions will rise, tax brackets will widen and income limits for IRAs will increase in 2007, thanks to inflation adjustments announced today by the Internal Revenue Service.

Credit for Toyota and Lexus Hybrids Begins Phase-Out With Reporting of Third Quarter Sales

the Internal Revenue Service announced that purchasers Toyota and Lexus vehicles may continue to claim the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit. Given the number of vehicles sold, the phase out period for Toyotavehicles began on Oct. 1, 2006.

Internet Spam:Marketer Settles With FTC for Sending Unwanted E-Mails

A company that sent unsolicited commercial e-mail after consumers asked it to stop has agreed to pay a $50,717 civil penalty to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated federal law.

Wild Horse and Burro Program Grant Program

The grant includes maintaining certain herd characteristics, numbers, genetic stock, etc. Management tasks primarily focus on monitoring both the land and the herds, removing excess animals, preparing animals for adoption, adopting animals to the general public, compliance and titling. By law, the BLM must limit its activities to those necessary to get the job done. To provide care for wild horses removed from public lands; teaching animal husbandry; and provide a place to maintain and rest wild horses in route to adoptions or while they are awaiting adoption.

Patriot’s Day 2007 Gives Some Taxpayers Extra Tax Time

Patriot’s Day 2007 Gives Some Taxpayers Extra Tax Time: "Individuals in six eastern states and the District of Columbia will have an extra day until April 17, 2007, to file their 2006 returns and pay any taxes due according to the Internal Revenue Service."

2007 Model Year Cars and Trucks Fuel Economy Guide

2007 Model Year Cars and Trucks Fuel Economy Guide: "You can save $200-$1,500 in fuel costs each year by choosing the most efficient vehicle that meets your needs. This can add up to thousands of dollars over a vehicle’s lifetime. Fuel-efficient models come in all shapes and sizes, so you don't have to sacrifice utility or size. "

Hartford to Pay $55 Million to Settle Directed Brokerage Charges

Hartford to Pay $55 Million to Settle Directed Brokerage Charges: "The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that three subsidiaries of Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. will pay $55 million to settle charges that they misrepresented and failed to disclose to fund shareholders and the funds' Boards of Directors their use of fund assets to pay for the marketing and distribution of Hartford mutual funds and annuities"

Don't Bet On It: Advice to Athletes on Sports Gambling

Don't Bet On It: Advice to Athletes on Sports Gambling: "First, the NCAA—the National Collegiate Athletic Association—has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to sports gambling by its athletes. Get caught betting on a game—even one you're not playing in—and your career as a college athlete is over. "

Don't Bet On It: Advice to Athletes on Sports Gambling

Don't Bet On It: Advice to Athletes on Sports Gambling: "First, the NCAA—the National Collegiate Athletic Association—has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to sports gambling by its athletes. Get caught betting on a game—even one you're not playing in—and your career as a college athlete is over. "

Deceptive Adware Downloads: FTC settles Charges

Deceptive Adware Downloads: FTC settles Charges: "Zango, Inc., formerly known as 180solutions, Inc., one of the world’s largest distributors of adware, and two principals have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they used unfair and deceptive methods to download adware and obstruct consumers from removing it, in violation of federal law. The settlement bars future downloads of Zango’s adware without consumers’ consent, requires Zango to provide a way for consumers to remove the adware, and requires them to give up $3 million in ill-gotten gains."

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding With Truncal Vagotomy

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding With Truncal Vagotomy: "Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) is a gold standard in the surgical treatment of morbid obesity. We hypothesize that the addition of truncal vagotomy (cutting of nerves to the stomach) will produce greater weight loss and better reduction of co-morbidities (diseases caused by or aggravated by morbid obesity) than LAGB alone. 25 patients will be enrolled and outcomes compared to LAGB historical controls over a post-operative period of 24 months"

Treatment of Severe Alzheimer's Disease: Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of Galantamine Hydrobromide

Treatment of Severe Alzheimer's Disease: Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of Galantamine Hydrobromide: "The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness and safety of galantamine hydrobromide treatment in patients with severe Alzheimer's disease. "

Mortgage Fraud: Real Estate Investor Sentenced to 12 Years for $19 Million Mortgage Fraud

Mortgage Fraud: Real Estate Investor Sentenced to 12 Years for $19 Million Mortgage Fraud: "Bradley J. Schlozman, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a real estate investor was sentenced in federal court today for orchestrating the largest mortgage fraud scheme ever prosecuted in the Western District of Missouri"

Medi-Cal And Medicare Fraud: Attorney General Bill Lockyer Announces Arrests in $1.4 Million Medi-Cal And Medicare Fraud Scheme

Medi-Cal And Medicare Fraud: Attorney General Bill Lockyer Announces Arrests in $1.4 Million Medi-Cal And Medicare Fraud Scheme: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced the arrest of three Los Angeles residents on allegations that they bilked the Medicare program out of more than $1.4 million over a two-year period while also trafficking in Medi-Cal beneficiary information. Among the crimes committed by the trio are the fraudulent reporting of medical services that were never provided and billing for services allegedly provided to patients who were already deceased. "

Auto Theft: Myths versus Facts

Auto Theft: Myths versus Facts: "In 2005, a vehicle was stolen every 25.5 seconds in the United States, based only on data for the 1,235,226 stolen vehicles reported to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). Using the FBI’s average valuation of $6,173 per stolen vehicle, this amounts to over $7.6 billion in losses in 2005 – just in vehicle value alone."

Doha 2006 Asian Games: U.S. Citizen Fact Sheet

Doha 2006 Asian Games: U.S. Citizen Fact Sheet: "The Doha 2006 Asian Games will take place in and around Doha, Qatar, December 1-15, 2006. Before You Go: U.S. citizens will need a valid U.S. passport, Qatari visa and a confirmed hotel reservation to travel to Qatar. "

IRS Mileage Rates:IRS Announces 2007 Standard Mileage Rates

IRS Mileage Rates:IRS Announces 2007 Standard Mileage Rates: "The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2007 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. Beginning Jan. 1, 2007, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car48.5 cents per mile for business miles driven. "

Federal Jobs: MSHA Seeking New Mine Inspectors

Federal Jobs: MSHA Seeking New Mine Inspectors: "The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is continuing its efforts to hire new mine inspectors by conducting on-site applicant screenings in Syracuse, N.Y., on Nov. 4 and 5, 2006 at the Educational Opportunity Center, 100 New St. Registration for all candidates begins at 7 a.m. "

Social Networking Online:The Buddy System for Safe Social Networking Online

Social Networking Online:The Buddy System for Safe Social Networking Online: "The Federal Trade Commission today announced a new game that quizzes players on their online social networking practices and offers tips to help keep kids and teens safe online."

Gastric Bypass Weight Loss: Study of Effects From Gastric Bypass Weight Loss on Brain Tissue

Gastric Bypass Weight Loss: Study of Effects From Gastric Bypass Weight Loss on Brain Tissue: "This study will evaluate how large, intentional weight reduction affects the human brain and possible ways to reverse the changes associated with excess body weight. Subtle changes in some brain regions occur in people who are overweight."

Marijuana Eradication: Attorney General Lockyer Announces 2006 Campaign Against Marijuana Planting Sets New Seizure Record

Marijuana Eradication: Attorney General Lockyer Announces 2006 Campaign Against Marijuana Planting Sets New Seizure Record: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced the state Department of Justice’s (DOJ) 2006 Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (CAMP) set a new record with the seizure of 1,675,681 plants during the eradication season. The total surpasses last years’ record-breaking season by 540,989 plants. The marijuana eradicated by CAMP in 2006 had an estimated street value of more than $6.7 billion. "

Israel Discount Bank of New York Gets Fined by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)

Israel Discount Bank of New York Gets Fined by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN): "The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the New York State Banking Department (NYSBD) today announced the assessment of civil money penalties of $12 million against Israel Discount Bank of New York for violations of federal and state anti-money laundering laws and regulations. This is in addition to the $8.5 million already paid to the New York District Attorney's Office pursuant to an agreement reached with the bank in December 2005. Israel Discount Bank of New York, without admitting or denying the allegations, consented to payment of the civil money penalties"

Cyber Security: How to Pretect Yourself from Cyber Threats

Cyber Security: How to Pretect Yourself from Cyber Threats: "October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, and it’s a good time to make sure you’re protected from the latest dangers lurking in cyberspace. Among the risks: Malicious code—viruses, worms, Trojan horses, etc.—that can disable and even take over your computer without your knowledge ; Pedophiles who prowl the web, looking to exploit your kids and others. "

Contract Solicitation: Internet Services and Audiovisual Contract

Contract Solicitation: Internet Services and Audiovisual Contract: "The California Coastal Commission (CCC) is seeking a vendor to provide audio, visual and live, internet webstreaming services at CCC meetings. The CCC holds public meetings at least once a month in various coastal areas. Meetings currently usually last three consecutive days, but can vary from one to five days in length"

CalPERS Home Loan Program Contract Opportunity

CalPERS Home Loan Program Contract Opportunity: "CalPERS is seeking proposals from mortgage loan master servicers to serve as Manager of the CalPERS Member Home Loan Program. The Manager will have general responsibility for the administration and supervision of the program and will provide certain uniform reports and services to CalPERS. The Manager will, among other duties, provide the services described below"

Halloween Safety Safety Alert

Halloween Safety Safety Alert: "CPSC is aware of serious Halloween-related injuries involving burns from flammable costumes and decorations, including ignition from open flames, such as candles and Jack O' Lanterns. Additional incidents have involved abrasions from sharp objects attached to masks or costumes."

Teen Sexual Harassment: EEOC said Class of Young Women Subjected to Verbal and Physical Sexual Abuse

Teen Sexual Harassment: EEOC said Class of Young Women Subjected to Verbal and Physical Sexual Abuse: "ROCHESTER, N.Y. – A jury in federal district court here has returned a $585,000 verdict in a major sexual harassment lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) against a national residential basement waterproofing company on behalf of a class of 13 young women, mostly teenage girls still in high school, who were subjected to a sexually hostile work environment by male managers and salesmen."

HUD HUD Charges Erie Insurance Group with Race Discrimination

HUD HUD Charges Erie Insurance Group with Race Discrimination: "The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced today that it has charged Erie Insurance Group and five agencies licensed to sell Erie insurance products with violating the Fair Housing Act by providing inferior insurance products to homeowners in African-American neighborhoods than to homeowners in white neighborhoods with comparable homes. Erie Insurance Group serves eleven states and the District of Columbia. HUD's investigation found that Erie's agents did not provide African-American neighborhoods in Syracuse, N.Y., with the same level of insurance coverage they provided for similar homes in predominantly-white neighborhoods in Liverpool, N.Y. "

NIH Announces Awards in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research

NIH Announces Awards in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research: "The Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH) and the Trans-NIH Working Group for Research in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFSWG) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are pleased to announce seven (7) awards in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) research. "

United States Mint Strikes ‘Granite Lady’ Coins

United States Mint Strikes ‘Granite Lady’ Coins: "Making her entrance in silver, the Granite Lady was once again the center of attention in this city as officials got a glimpse today of the silver commemorative coin honoring the San Francisco Old Mint during a ceremony at the current United States Mint at San Francisco. "

Life Insurance Needs Continue Even After the Kids Are Grown, Says the Insurance Information Institute

Life Insurance Needs Continue Even After the Kids Are Grown, Says the Insurance Information Institute: "Couples who believe they no longer need life insurance after their youngest child reaches his or her 18th birthday could leave their family vulnerable to serious financial problems, especially if the sole income-earning parent dies."

Study of Acamprosate for Alcohol Dependence in a Family Medicine Clinic

Study of Acamprosate for Alcohol Dependence in a Family Medicine Clinic: "This is a study of a medication, Campral or Acamprosate, which is an FDA approved medication for alcohol problems. We will be examining whether Campral compared to a sugar pill (placebo) is more effective for helping with drinking in a Family Medicine clinic. "

Prostate Cancer: Pomegranate Juice in Treating Patients With Rising Prostate-Specific Antigen

Prostate Cancer: Pomegranate Juice in Treating Patients With Rising Prostate-Specific Antigen: "Pomegranate juice may keep prostate cancer from growing in patients with rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels after surgery or radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer."

Children With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a Clinical Trial Study

Children With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a Clinical Trial Study: "The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of treatment with oral pantoprazole in children 1 through 5 years of age with endoscopically proven symptomatic GERD. "

Misuse of Prescription Drugs is Second only to Marijuana, According to Federal Report

Misuse of Prescription Drugs is Second only to Marijuana, According to Federal Report: "Misuse of prescription drugs is second only to marijuana as the nation’s most prevalent drug problem, and the annual average number of people using pain relievers non-medically for the first time exceeds the number of new marijuana users according to a study released today by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Most young people aged 12 to 17 get these drugs from friends or family members, not the Internet. "

Free Exhibit Space Available at FTC’s “Tech-ade”

Free Exhibit Space Available at FTC’s “Tech-ade”: "Limited free exhibit space is still available for companies that want to display examples of their cutting-edge technology at the FTC’s three-day public hearings to examine how evolving technology will shape and change the habits, opportunities, and challenges of consumers and businesses in the coming decade. Companies ranging from Microsoft to Moobella, from TiVo to Entertrainer have signed up to exhibit their products in conjunction with the workshop, to be held November 6-8 at The George Washington University Lisner Auditorium, 730 21st Street, NW, Washington, DC 20052."

Identity Theft Continues to Rise, Financial Accounts Targeted

Identity Theft Continues to Rise, Financial Accounts Targeted: "We continue to see a rise in online identity theft cases, leading to the compromise of financial account information. In addition to banking accounts, we are observing increased activity targeting brokerage accounts. We remind users to remain cautious when receiving unsolicited email in order to avoid phishing and keylogger type attacks. We also emphasize the importance of preventative computer security measures to help avoid phishing and other types of attacks"

Off-pump" Bypass Surgery Associated with Reduced Occurrence of Stroke and Other Complications

Off-pump" Bypass Surgery Associated with Reduced Occurrence of Stroke and Other Complications: "Performing a common heart surgery without bypassing the cardiopulmonary system may cut down on the number of surgery-related strokes and other short-term complications, according to a new report by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)."

Off-pump" Bypass Surgery Associated with Reduced Occurrence of Stroke and Other Complications

Off-pump" Bypass Surgery Associated with Reduced Occurrence of Stroke and Other Complications: "Performing a common heart surgery without bypassing the cardiopulmonary system may cut down on the number of surgery-related strokes and other short-term complications, according to a new report by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)."

NIH Announces Awards in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research

NIH Announces Awards in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research: "The Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH) and the Trans-NIH Working Group for Research in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFSWG) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are pleased to announce seven (7) awards in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) research. The proposed studies will help researchers understand how the diverse symptoms in CFS are related to the interactions between the immune and neurological systems—an important step towards developing effective treatments for a disabling condition"

Unemployed? Apply for Benefits On-Line With eApply4UI

Unemployed? Apply for Benefits On-Line With eApply4UI - You can file at any time, at your convenience, in English or Spanish. eApply4UI is secure, reliable and available 24 hours per day. Note: This is the fastest way to file your claim.

OSHA Offers Free Spanish Language Construction Safety Course Oct. 29 in Riverhead, N.Y.

OSHA Offers Free Spanish Language Construction Safety Course Oct. 29 in Riverhead, N.Y.: "The course will help Hispanic workers identify and prevent common workplace hazards. It will include instruction about fall protection, excavation safety, electrical hazards, scaffolds, ladders, hand and power tools, hazard communication, industrial hygiene and fire protection. Workers will learn about their right to a safe and healthful workplace and how to contact OSHA"

Getting Your College Degree: Census Bureau Data Underscore Value of College Degree

Getting Your College Degree: Census Bureau Data Underscore Value of College Degree: "Adults age 18 and older with a bachelor’s degree earned an average of $51,554 in 2004, while those with a high school diploma earned $28,645, according to new tabulations released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. Those without a high school diploma earned an average of $19,169."

Celebrate School Garden Week

Celebrate School Garden Week: "Join the California School Garden Network in celebrating School Garden Week! CSGN is encouraging schools throughout California to host garden activities and events to celebrate the success of school gardens across Califronia. We have created downloadable School Garden Week Event Kit materials to help you plan your garden celebration. The kit includes:"

SAM-e for the Treatment of Depression in Patients With Parkinson's Disease

SAM-e for the Treatment of Depression in Patients With Parkinson's Disease: "This study will test a chemical called s-adenosyl-methionine (SAM-e) for the treatment of depression in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). "

Acne Treatment: The Effect of Doxycycline 100mg and Doxycycline 20mg in Treatment of Mild and Moderate Acne

Acne Treatment: The Effect of Doxycycline 100mg and Doxycycline 20mg in Treatment of Mild and Moderate Acne: "The purpose of this study is to compare the safety and efficacy of twice daily subantimicrobial dose doxycycline 20mg with daily doxycycline 100mg in treatment of mild and moderate Acne. "

Legal Help Available For Flood Disaster Victims

Legal Help Available For Flood Disaster Victims: "INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- Volunteer attorneys are providing free, disaster-related legal assistance to individuals affected by the September 12 – 14 severe storms and flooding. The service, coordinated through the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is available by calling 1-800-266-2581 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday."

PBGC Assumes Pension Plan of Republic Storage Systems

PBGC Assumes Pension Plan of Republic Storage Systems: "The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) today announced it has assumed responsibility for the pensions of nearly 900 former employees of Republic Storage Systems Co. Inc., an employee-owned manufacturer of school storage lockers in Canton, Ohio. "

Thanksgiving Day 2006: Nov. 23, 2006, Facts Features and Fun

Thanksgiving Day 2006: Nov. 23, 2006, Facts Features and Fun: "1.6 billion pounds of sweet potatoes — another popular Thanksgiving side dish — produced in the United States in 2005. North Carolina (595 million pounds) produced more sweet potatoes than any other state. It was followed by California (351 million pounds). Mississippi and Louisiana also produced large amounts: at least 200 million pounds each"

Wireless Telephones: Probable Increase in Charges for Calling Wireless Telephones in Mexico

Wireless Telephones: Probable Increase in Charges for Calling Wireless Telephones in Mexico: "Beginning as early as November 4, 2006, calls to wireless phones in Mexico are expected to cost significantly more than they do today, with likely charges of at least 14 cents per minute imposed by Mexican telephone companies. Rates are increasing because the Mexican government recently decided to allow Mexican telephone companies to charge more for connecting calls to wireless phones in Mexico from other countries, including the United States."

Interest-Only Mortgage Payments and Payment-Option ARMs--Are They for You?

Interest-Only Mortgage Payments and Payment-Option ARMs--Are They for You?: "Owning a home is part of the American dream. But high home prices may make the dream seem out of reach. To make monthly mortgage payments more affordable, many lenders offer home loans that allow you to (1) pay only the interest on the loan during the first few years of the loan term or (2) make only a specified minimum payment that could be less than the monthly interest on the loan"

Halloween: Fun for Kids, Worrisome for Adults

Halloween: Fun for Kids, Worrisome for Adults: "Halloween is a big treat for kids of all ages but can be a big worry for parents and motorists. Parents can minimize risks this October 31 by making sure their trick-or-treating youngsters follow some safety tips, advises the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.). Smart parents can ensure a safe Halloween by accompanying small children around the neighborhood. If your children are old enough to explore the neighborhood on their own, advise them to visit homes where they know they will be welcome. If the house looks dark and uninviting, tell the kids to stay away."

Tomorrow's Leaders Student Scholarship Program

Tomorrow's Leaders Student Scholarship Program: "The Office of the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) announces a limited competition Request for Applications (RFA) to provide four year, university-level scholarship and internship opportunities at select institutions of higher learning in the Middle East for future Arab leaders. The program is notionally titled the “Tomorrow’s Leaders” program. "

The Truth About Your Automobile Insurance Rates

The Truth About Your Automobile Insurance Rates: " you’re here because of the insurance industry's attack campaign, then you probably haven’t heard the true story. If you believe, as I do, that your insurance rates should be based more on how safely you drive than where you live, you might want to learn the real facts about my new regulations.
"

Retiree Health Costs: CalPERS Approves Helping Public Agencies Pre-Fund

Retiree Health Costs: CalPERS Approves Helping Public Agencies Pre-Fund: "The California Public Employees' Retirement System took the first steps in setting up a program that would help public agencies pre-fund retiree health costs. The CalPERS Board of Administration approved language for regulations that would authorize the System to develop a pre-funding plan for retiree health care coverage"

Pregnant Smokers: Don’t Light Up During First Two Weeks of Cessation Program

Pregnant Smokers: Don’t Light Up During First Two Weeks of Cessation Program: "Previous research has shown that cigarette use during the first two weeks of a smoking cessation program predicts short- and longer-term cigarette use. Now, new NIDA-supported research extends this finding to pregnant women."

What Is Back Pain? Fast Facts

What Is Back Pain? Fast Facts: "Fast Facts: An Easy-to-Read Series of Publications for the Public"

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"