Public Health Alert: HoneyBaked Foods Recall

Public Health Alert: HoneyBaked Foods Recall: "The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert to remind consumers of the Nov. 24 recall of cooked ham and turkey products from HoneyBaked Foods Inc., of Holland, Ohio that were sold nationwide through internet and telephone catalogue sales as well as at retail establishments and kiosks in Toledo, Ohio, that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and to provide safe food handling information for people at risk for listeriosis. The ham and turkey products were sold before Thanksgiving and any leftovers should be discarded. "

Apple Releases Security Update to Address Multiple Vulnerabilities

Apple Releases Security Update to Address Multiple Vulnerabilities: "Mac OS X, Safari, and other products are affected by multiple vulnerabilities. Apple has released Security Update 2006-007 to address these vulnerabilities, the most serious of which may allow a remote attacker to place and run malicious programs on your computer. "

Adoption Services: New Guide on Adoption Services for Military Families Released

Adoption Services: New Guide on Adoption Services for Military Families Released: "The Department of Health and Human Services today announced the publication of Wherever My Family Is: That’s Home! Adoption Services for Military Families. The guide highlights adoption practices that can help to minimize the obstacles military families face when attempting to become foster or adoptive parents."

FCC GRANTS FIRST ADVANCED WIRELESS SERVICES LICENSES

FCC GRANTS FIRST ADVANCED WIRELESS SERVICES LICENSES: "Today, the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted 550 of the 1,087 licenses won in the Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) Auction completed September 18, 2006 (Auction No. 66). The grant of these licenses will promote the further deployment of broadband services across the United States, as they can be used to provide a wide array of innovative wireless services and technologies, including voice, data, video, and other wireless broadband services. "

Grant Notice: General Motors Foundation Grants

Grant Notice: General Motors Foundation Grants: "The General Motors Foundation is accepting applications for its Health and Human Services grants program. This program supports research related to the causes, prevention and treatment of various diseases, such as cancer. HIV/AIDS awareness and education campaigns are also a priority"

National Influenza Vaccination Week – Nov. 27 through Dec. 3

National Influenza Vaccination Week – Nov. 27 through Dec. 3: "A flu shot remains our best defense against catching the flu,' Horton said. 'The influenza virus that causes the flu stays active in our communities through early spring. Also, people who gather over the holidays have an increased chance of getting the flu. So, now is a good time to get vaccinated to protect yourself and your family during the holiday season and into the new year"

Despite Rising AIDS Cases, Only 37 Percent of U.S. Women Test for HIV,

Despite Rising AIDS Cases, Only 37 Percent of U.S. Women Test for HIV,: "Among female members of racial and ethnic groups, Women’s Health USA 2006 notes that 52.4 percent of non-Hispanic black women and 45.4 percent of Hispanic women in 2004 had ever been tested for HIV, compared to just one third of non-Hispanic white (33.6 percent) and Asian (33.3 percent) women, according to statistics compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)."

FDA Warns Horse Owners and Veterinarians About Deaths Due to Unapproved Clenbuterol

FDA Warns Horse Owners and Veterinarians About Deaths Due to Unapproved Clenbuterol: "FDA has become aware of the deaths of several horses in the State of Louisiana associated with the use of a product labeled as “Clenbuterol HCL.” Horse owners and veterinarians should be aware that there are no generic clenbuterol-containing products approved for animals."

Gift Cards: OCC Reminds Consumers of Holiday Tips on Gift Cards

Gift Cards: OCC Reminds Consumers of Holiday Tips on Gift Cards: "As the holiday shopping season gets underway, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) wants consumers to know that it is important to check carefully the terms and conditions that apply to gift cards they buy or receive."

76,000 Craftsman Chain Saws Recalled

76,000 Craftsman Chain Saws Recalled: "The chain saw’s plastic front handle can break during operation. If this occurs, the saw would be difficult to control and poses a risk for lacerations."

2007 CONFORMING LOAN LIMIT TO REMAIN AT $417,000

2007 CONFORMING LOAN LIMIT TO REMAIN AT $417,000: "Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight Director James B. Lockhart today announced the maximum 2007 conforming loan limit for single-family mortgages purchased by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises) will remain at the 2006 level of $417,000 for one-unit properties for most of the U.S"

Grant Alert: Prevent ion of Rape in Correctional Facilities

Grant Alert: Prevent ion of Rape in Correctional Facilities: "PREA calls for Federal, State, and local corrections systems to have a zero-tolerance policy regarding prison rape (as defined by PREA) in prisons, jails, police lock-ups, and other confinement facilities. Since the passage of this law, State and local correctional facilities have been implementing programs and technologies aimed at preventing prison rape."

Amtrak Getaway Sweepstakes

Amtrak Getaway Sweepstakes: "You don't have to be an 'Unaccompanied Minor' to enjoy this sweepstakes. Enter for a chance to win four round-trip coach tickets good for anywhere Amtrak travels in the US, along with a Warner Home Video DVD Library consisting of fifteen Warner Bros. Home Video titles."

Holiday Season in San Francisco: Amtrak Specials

Holiday Season in San Francisco: Amtrak Specials: "Make holiday shopping simple this season by taking Amtrak San Joaquins to San Francisco, the Bay Area's premier destination for the holiday season. No traffic, no parking misadventures and no worries; just kick back in our comfy seats and enjoy breathtaking views, grab a snack from the Café car and chat with your shopping companions. "

Nursing Grants: Nursing Workforce Diversity Grants Deadline November 30, 2006

Nursing Grants: Nursing Workforce Diversity Grants Deadline to apply, November 30, 2006: "Grants are awarded to increase nursing education opportunities for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds (including racial and ethnic minorities underrpresented among registered nurses) by providing student scholarships or stipends, pre-entry preparation, and retention activities."

Grantee in Florida Hires Grandmothers to Help Families Get Health Care

Grantee in Florida Hires Grandmothers to Help Families Get Health Care: "A HRSA-funded program at the University of Florida in Gainesville hires grandmothers to help low-income, uninsured families in primarily minority communities learn how to access health care and other services for their children."

High Blood Cholesterol is a Major Risk Factor for Heart Disease

High Blood Cholesterol is a Major Risk Factor for Heart Disease: "High blood cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. About 17% of adult Americans have high blood cholesterol (240 mg/dL or more total cholesterol)."

Free Lupus CD-ROM:Lupus Information for You and Your Patients

Free Lupus CD-ROM:Lupus Information for You and Your Patients: "The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institutes of Health (NIH), is offering Lupus Information for You and Your Patients on a CD-ROM. It is an informative and cost-effective educational tool for doctors and other health professionals who treat patients with lupus."

Study Examines Early Immune System Targets in Scleroderma

Study Examines Early Immune System Targets in Scleroderma: "As is the case with most diseases, the best chance of treatment success with scleroderma is early in the process of the disease, before it has had the chance to cause irreparable damage. If doctors knew what started scleroderma – the initial targets of self-directed antibodies that seem to set the disease in motion – they might be able to diagnose it earlier and begin treatment earlier with specifically targeted therapies, says Judith James, M.D., Ph.D., Lou Kerr Chair in Biomedical Research and professor of medicine at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center."

New Requirements For Air Travel:Passports Required for Air Travel Into United States as of January 23

New Requirements For Air Travel:Passports Required for Air Travel Into United States as of January 23: "The ability to misuse travel documents to enter this country opens the door for a terrorist to carry out an attack. We can not continue to allow loopholes that could facilitate access to the United States through false claims of citizenship or fake identities,” said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. “This initiative strengthens our border security by designating verifiable secure documents that may be used at our air ports of entry"

Alcohol-Dependent Women: Combined Treatment for Alcohol-Dependent Women With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Alcohol-Dependent Women: Combined Treatment for Alcohol-Dependent Women With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).: "The purpose of this study is to compare four different treatment conditions for women with comorbid alcohol dependence and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). "

How to Report Internet-Related Crime

How to Report Internet-Related Crime: "Internet-related crime, like any other crime, should be reported to appropriate law enforcement investigative authorities at the local, state, federal, or international levels, depending on the scope of the crime. Citizens who are aware of federal crimes should report them to local offices of federal law enforcement. "

Kreative Mindz Media "Streets on Smash Tour" (Florida)

Kreative Mindz Media "Streets on Smash Tour" (Florida): "We are looking for labels that have new artists that they want to break in the Florida market who are enthusiastic to our idea of making each artist a rising star as we set ventures which will allow them to showcase their talent on our 'Streets on Smash Tour'. "

Make Your Calories Count: Use the Nutrition Facts Label

Make Your Calories Count: Use the Nutrition Facts Label: "Make Your Calories Count is an interactive learning program that provides consumers with information to help plan a healthful diet while managing calorie intake. The exercises will help consumers use the food label to make decisions about which food choice is right for them. For simplicity, the program presents two nutrients that should be limited (saturated fat and sodium) and two nutrients that should be consumed in adequate amounts (fiber and calcium)."

Passports Required for Air Travel to United States as of January 23, 2007

Passports Required for Air Travel to United States as of January 23, 2007: "The Departments of State and Homeland Security announced today that the requirement for citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda to present a passport to enter the United States when arriving by air from any part of the Western Hemisphere will begin on January 23, 2007."

Quality changes in 2007 passenger cars and light trucks

Quality changes in 2007 passenger cars and light trucks: "The estimated retail equivalent value of quality changes for 2007 model year domestically produced light trucks averaged $392.10,"

365 Days Later, Xbox 360 Unveils First Wave of TV Shows and Movies on Xbox Live

365 Days Later, Xbox 360 Unveils First Wave of TV Shows and Movies on Xbox Live: "Xbox 360 offers the latest in entertainment options for everyone, from a library of 160 high- definition games expected by holiday to downloadable standard and high-definition TV shows and movies.
"

Additional Honda Vehicles Certified for Hybrid Tax Credits

Additional Honda Vehicles Certified for Hybrid Tax Credits: "The Internal Revenue Service has acknowledged the certification by American Honda Motor Company, Inc., that several of its Model Year 2007 vehicles meet the requirements of the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit as qualified hybrid motor vehicles."

Web Conference: Providing Mass Medical Care with Scarce Resources

Web Conference: Providing Mass Medical Care with Scarce Resources: "This AHRQ-sponsored Web conference will provide planners at the institutional, State, and Federal levels with valuable insights and information that will help them plan for and respond to a Mass Casualty Event (MCE). The Web conference will focus on the specific circumstances communities likely would face as a result of an MCE and the key principles and critical organizational structures to be incorporated into MCE planning. "

Common Mistakes that Cost Bank Customers Money

Common Mistakes that Cost Bank Customers Money: "Not checking up on your checking account. Lack of attention to the account balance can result in fees for bounced checks or for going below a required minimum balance. Also, if a customer fails to spot fraudulent transactions, fixing those can be costly and time consuming. "

Renting a Car for Thanksgiving? The I.I.I. Provides Rental Car Insurance Tips

Renting a Car for Thanksgiving? The I.I.I. Provides Rental Car Insurance Tips: "With so many people traveling to visit family friends over Thanksgiving, there are likely to be long lines at rental car companies across the country, Properly insuring a rental car can be tricky. Unfortunately, many consumers don’t even think about car rental insurance until they get to the counter, which can result in costly mistakes, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.)."

United States Mint Unveils Designs of New Circulating Presidential $1 Coins

United States Mint Unveils Designs of New Circulating Presidential $1 Coins: "Federal officials provided a first glimpse of a new series of circulating Presidential $1 Coins at a design unveiling ceremony held today at the Smithsonian Institution�s National Portrait Gallery. The $1 coins are being introduced as a result of the Presidential Coin Act of 2005, which requires the United States Mint to mint the dollar coins commemorating the service of former United States Presidents in the order in which they served. "

Women in the Labor Force: A Databook (2006 Edition)

Women in the Labor Force: A Databook (2006 Edition) -In 2005, just over 59 percent of women age 16 and over were in the labor force. Employed Asian women were more likely than employed white, black, and Hispanic women to work in management, professional, and related occupations (about 45 percent compared with 39, 30, and 22 percent, respectively). Hispanic and black women (31 and 27 percent, respectively) were more likely than white and Asian women (19 and 18 percent, respectively) to work in service occupations.

New Report Shows Teen Births Drop To Lowest Level Ever

New Report Shows Teen Births Drop To Lowest Level Ever: "The teen birth rate in the United States fell to its lowest level ever in 2005, according to the latest birth statistics for the nation, released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)."

Common Mistakes that Cost Bank Customers Money

Common Mistakes that Cost Bank Customers Money: "To err is human…and sometimes it can be expensive. That's why the latest FDIC Consumer News, published by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, features some of the more common and costly mistakes consumers make when using their checking account, credit card or other banking services, along with guidance on how to avoid these errors."

FTC Permanently Halts Unlawful Spyware Operations

FTC Permanently Halts Unlawful Spyware Operations: "Defendants involved with operations that secretly downloaded spyware that changed settings on consumers’ computers, have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that their practices violated federal law. The settlements bar secret software downloads in the future, bar the operators from exploiting security vulnerabilities to download software, and bar misrepresentations. In addition, the operators will give up a total of $50,000 in ill-gotten gains."

2007 TOP SAFETY Auto PICK Award Winners: award criteria are tougher; SUVs eligible for first time

2007 TOP SAFETY Auto PICK Award Winners: award criteria are tougher; SUVs eligible for first time: "The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety announces 13 vehicles that earn TOP SAFETY PICK awards for 2007. Winners include 4 cars, 7 SUVs, and 2 minivans. This award recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting people in front, side, and rear crashes based on ratings in Institute tests. Winners also have to be equipped with electronic stability control (ESC)."

Mattel’s Recalls 2.4 million Polly Pocket Magnetic Play Sets

Mattel’s Recalls 2.4 million Polly Pocket Magnetic Play Sets: "CPSC is aware of 170 reports of the small magnets coming out of these recalled toys. There were three reports of serious injuries to children who swallowed more than one magnet. All three suffered intestinal perforations that required surgery. A 2-year-old child was hospitalized for seven days and a 7-year-old child was hospitalized for 12 days. An 8-year-old child was also hospitalized."

New OSHA Ergonomics eTool: OSHA Adds Screen Printing Module to Printing Industry Ergonomics eTool

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently launched a new Screen Printing module as part of its interactive Web-based Ergonomics in the Printing Industry eTool. The module and eTool are products of the agency's Alliance with the Graphic Arts Coalition.

Study of Late Angioplasty after Heart Attack

Study of Late Angioplasty after Heart Attack: "About a third of heart attack patients don’t receive treatment to open blocked arteries within the recommended 12-hour timeframe after a heart attack. For years, people thought that late balloon angioplasty of totally blocked arteries could still prevent future heart problems. According to the results of a large clinical trial, however, stable patients undergoing angioplasty plus stenting three to 28 days after a heart attack did no better than patients on drug therapy alone."

Fat Cells and Cancer Risk

Fat Cells and Cancer Risk: "Obesity has been linked with several types of cancer — including those of the colon, breast, endometrium (the lining of the uterus), kidney and esophagus — but why there’s a link hasn’t been clear. A new study in mice brings researchers one step closer to understanding how excess fat might raise the risk of cancer"

Port of Houston Authority to EPA: Let’s Do It Again

Port of Houston Authority to EPA: Let’s Do It Again: "The Port of Houston Authority was recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today for renewing its commitment to implement environmentally beneficial practices that go beyond regulatory requirements. "

Beef Jerky Recall: Michigan Firm Recalls Beef Jerky Due to Potential for Presence of Animal Drug

Beef Jerky Recall: Michigan Firm Recalls Beef Jerky Due to Potential for Presence of Animal Drug: " a Taylor, Mich., establishment, is voluntarily recalling approximately 23,200 pounds of beef jerky products that may contain the animal drug Doramectin, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced today. "

The Holiday Season: Shopping Facts , Figures and Fun - The Census Bureau's Reports

The Holiday Season: Shopping Facts , Figures and Fun - The Census Bureau's Reports: "The holiday season is a time for gathering and celebrating with friends and family, gift-giving and general cheer and rejoicing. To commemorate this time of year, the U.S. Census Bureau presents the following holiday-related facts and figures from its data collection. "

New Disaster Planning Guide Offers Valuable Mass Casualty Care Information

New Disaster Planning Guide Offers Valuable Mass Casualty Care Information: "The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) today released Providing Mass Medical Care with Scarce Resources: A Community Planning Guide, which provides community planners, as well as planners at the institutional, state and federal levels, with valuable information that will help their efforts to plan for and respond to a mass casualty event (MCE). "

California Announces $7.75 Million-Plus Consumer Protection Settlement with Nation’s Largest Rent-to-Own Business

California Announces $7.75 Million-Plus Consumer Protection Settlement with Nation’s Largest Rent-to-Own Business: "Attorney General Bill Lockyer announced the nation’s largest rent-to-own business, Rent-A-Center, Inc. (RAC), will pay more than $7 million in restitution to thousands of California customers under a settlement, finalized today by the San Francisco County Superior Court, that resolves a consumer protection lawsuit brought by Lockyer"

190,500 Target Toys Recalled due to Laceration and Lead Hazards

190,500 Target Toys Recalled due to Laceration and Lead Hazards: "Some of these toys contain lead paint, which is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects. Also, some of the toys have sharp points, posing laceration or puncture wound hazards."

Indoor Air:EPA Develops Indoor Air Package for ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes

Indoor Air:EPA Develops Indoor Air Package for ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes: "EPA has developed specifications to recognize homes equipped with a comprehensive set of indoor air quality measures. Homes that comply with these specifications can use “Indoor Air Package” as a complementary label to the current label used for ENERGY STAR qualified homes. Only ENERGY STAR qualified homes are eligible for the Indoor Air Package label."

Keeping in Touch Using Personal Radio Services - walkie-talkies

Keeping in Touch Using Personal Radio Services - walkie-talkies: "Have you ever been in a place where you can’t use your wireless telephone—like skiing at higher altitudes, camping in a remote area, or even shopping at the mall? There are other wireless services that allow you to keep in touch --- personal radio services."

Microsoft Security Updates for Windows, Internet Explorer, and Adobe Flash

Microsoft Security Updates for Windows, Internet Explorer, and Adobe Flash: "Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Windows, Internet Explorer, and Adobe Flash could allow an attacker to gain control of your computer. "

New Safety Procedures for Internet Banking

New Safety Procedures for Internet Banking: "Here is both a reminder to Internet banking customers be on the lookout for new safety procedures required by the federal government, and a warning that fraud artists may try to take advantage of the situation to trick consumers into divulging valuable personal information"

Statewide Consumer Network Grants

Statewide Consumer Network Grants: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services is accepting applications for fiscal year (FY) 2007 for Statewide Consumer Network Grants. The purpose of this program is to enhance State capacity and infrastructure to be consumer-centered and targeted toward recovery and resiliency, and consumer-driven by promoting the use of consumers as agents of transformation. "

Statewide Consumer Network Grants

Statewide Consumer Network Grants: "The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services is accepting applications for fiscal year (FY) 2007 for Statewide Consumer Network Grants. The purpose of this program is to enhance State capacity and infrastructure to be consumer-centered and targeted toward recovery and resiliency, and consumer-driven by promoting the use of consumers as agents of transformation. "

How Young Adults Obtain Prescription Pain Relievers for Nonmedical Use

How Young Adults Obtain Prescription Pain Relievers for Nonmedical Use: "SAMHSA's National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that 4 million young adults aged 18 to 25 (12.4%) used prescription pain relievers (analgesics) such as OxyContin® nonmedically within the past year in 2005; in addition, 1.7% of the young adults met the criteria for dependence or abuse of prescription pain relievers in the past year. This report presents data on the source of these prescription pain relievers that were used nonmedically by young adults. "

IRS Makes Settlement Offer to Certain Foreign Embassy Staff

IRS Makes Settlement Offer to Certain Foreign Embassy Staff: "The Internal Revenue Service today encouraged U.S.-based employees and former employees of foreign embassies, foreign consular offices and international organizations to participate in a one-time settlement initiative to resolve tax matters related to their employment."

IRS Has Refund for 95,746 Taxpayers Whose Checks Could Not Be Delivered

IRS Has Refund for 95,746 Taxpayers Whose Checks Could Not Be Delivered: " average refund of $963 is waiting for 95,746 taxpayers whose refund checks have been returned to the Internal Revenue Service as undeliverable."

Honda Hybrids Still Qualify for Tax Credit

Honda Hybrids Still Qualify for Tax Credit: "The Internal Revenue Service announced that purchasers of qualified American Honda Motor Company, Inc., vehicles may continue to claim the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit."

Natural History of Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) in Children and Adolescents

Natural History of Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) in Children and Adolescents: "The goal of this project is to determine the long-term health outcome of children diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux (GER). We are inviting subjects that were previously followed in the Pediatric GI programs at Massachusetts General and Children's Hospital, Boston"

Development of Immune Globulin Treatment for Avian Flu

Development of Immune Globulin Treatment for Avian Flu: "This study will determine how best to use a vaccine for generating high levels of antibodies called immune globulins (IVIG) in people, which, in turn, can be collected and used to develop a possible treatment for avian influenza (bird flu). Immune globulins are proteins made by the body that attack the influenza virus. "

Eating Disorder: Motivating Factors That Play a Role in Bulimia Nervosa

Eating Disorder: Motivating Factors That Play a Role in Bulimia Nervosa: "This study will compare the effects of binge eating to the reinforcing effects of frequently abused drugs by determining whether people with bulimia nervosa will exert effort to be able to binge eat. "

New Report Finds Pain Affects Millions of Americans

New Report Finds Pain Affects Millions of Americans: "One in four U.S. adults say they suffered a day-long bout of pain in the past month, and one in 10 say the pain lasted a year or more, according to the government's annual, comprehensive report of Americans' health, Health United States, 2006, released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics."

OCC Highlights Strategies for Reaching Minority Markets

OCC Highlights Strategies for Reaching Minority Markets: "WASHINGTON — The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a new Community Developments Insights report, “ Reaching Minority Markets: Community Bank Strategies ,” examining a variety of methods that banks are using to target specific minority markets in the United States"

Targeted Grants to Reduce Childhood Lead Poisoning: Request for Proposals 2006

Targeted Grants to Reduce Childhood Lead Poisoning: Request for Proposals 2006: "EPA is soliciting grant proposals from eligible entities to conduct activities to reduce incidences of childhood lead poisoning in "

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available: "Residents who are unemployed as a result of the recent severe storms and flooding may be eligible for federal disaster unemployment assistance (DUA) benefits, state and federal officials said today. "

OSHA Unveils New Guidance for Protecting Employees Against Avian Flu

OSHA Unveils New Guidance for Protecting Employees Against Avian Flu: "The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) today unveiled new safety and health guidance that alerts employees and employers about the hazards of occupational exposure to avian influenza from infected birds, or 'avian flu,' and provides practical recommendations on ways to avoid infection."

Avian Flu: Guidance for Protecting Employees Against Avian Flu

Avian Flu: Guidance for Protecting Employees Against Avian Flu: "Avian influenza, commonly known as 'avian flu' or 'bird flu,' is caused by influenza type A viruses that normally only occur in birds. Avian flu is very contagious among birds and can make some domesticated birds, such as chickens, ducks and turkeys, very sick and kill them. "

Court Shuts Down Media Motor Spyware Operation

Court Shuts Down Media Motor Spyware Operation: "Trojan Program Downloaded Spyware, Adware, Porno Pop-Ups to Consumers’ Computers"

A Program to be Thankful for — Famine Early Warning System Network in Africa

A Program to be Thankful for — Famine Early Warning System Network in Africa: "While some enjoy the festive Thanksgiving Day meal this month, it’s important to remember some countries are less fortunate. Learn how the USGS is working to prevent the future occurrence of drought-induced famine that has devastated Africa in the past."

GIS Day — Discovering the World - November 15

GIS Day — Discovering the World - November 15: "On Nov. 15, geographic information system (GIS) users and vendors around the world are asked to open their doors to schools, businesses and the general public to showcase realworld applications of this important technology"

Get your Head in the Clouds! — See Earth from Space

Get your Head in the Clouds! — See Earth from Space: "Have you ever wondered what your backyard looks like from space? The new Earth from Space exhibit is kicking during Geography Awareness Week and promises to give you breathtaking views from the “eyes” of a satellite. "

Gorge On Turkey Gossip!

Gorge On Turkey Gossip!: "Brush up on your knowledge of your favorite Thanksgiving bird and other feathered friends at the Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter. "

Lacking Mussels in the United States?

Lacking Mussels in the United States?: "You won’t find these mussels in the gym after the holidays, and according to a new USGS, you’re also less likely to find them in your local streams and rivers."

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"