Guidance for Protecting Employees Against 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. These viruses usually do not infect humans, but in recent years several cases of avian flu infection in humans have been reported"

Pick a Card, Any Card? Any Gift Card?

Pick a Card, Any Card? Any Gift Card?: "Holiday shoppers spend billions on gift cards and gift certificates every year, and they're increasingly popular gifts. But many purchasers are concerned about whether these gifts can come with unwanted extras, like expiration dates and fees"

The No Hassle Gift? Tips on Buying, Giving, and Using Gift Cards

The No Hassle Gift? Tips on Buying, Giving, and Using Gift Cards: "Consumers are projected to spend $25 billion on gift cards in the 2006 holiday season. The Federal Trade Commission tells consumers that gift cards, whether purchased from a retailer, a restaurant, or a financial institution, may come with strings attached."

Alcohol and Other Drug Use Among Victims of Motor-Vehicle Crashes - West Virginia, 2004--2005

Alcohol and Other Drug Use Among Victims of Motor-Vehicle Crashes - West Virginia, 2004--2005: "Alcohol use is a well-established risk factor for motor-vehicle crashes (1). In 2005, approximately 39% of all traffic fatalities in the United States were alcohol related (2). Evidence of driver impairment from use of drugs other than alcohol is less definitive. In 2005, an estimated 4.3% of persons in the United States reported driving under the influence of a drug used recreationally during the preceding year"

Tests for Avian Influenza:CDC Awards $11.4 Million to Develop New Rapid Diagnostic Tests for Avian Influenza

Tests for Avian Influenza:CDC Awards $11.4 Million to Develop New Rapid Diagnostic Tests for Avian Influenza: "The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today announced $11.4 million in new contracts to four companies working to develop new diagnostic tests that doctors and field epidemiologists could eventually use to quickly and accurately test patients for avian influenza H5N1 and other emerging influenza viruses, as well as more common influenza viruses. The tests could provide public health experts worldwide with critical information on the influenza viruses circulating and help monitor for viruses that could cause a global influenza pandemic"

U.S. Labor Department's MSHA Makes New Emergency Mine Evacuation Rules Permanent

U.S. Labor Department's MSHA Makes New Emergency Mine Evacuation Rules Permanent: "The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) today issued a final rule that requires mine operators to increase the availability of emergency breathing devices, provide improved training on the use of the devices, improve emergency evacuation and drill training, install lifelines for emergency evacuation, and require immediate notification of MSHA in the event of an accident."

Omega-3 Fatty Acids to Improve Depression and Reduce Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Omega-3 Fatty Acids to Improve Depression and Reduce Cardiovascular Risk Factors: "This study will determine the effects of omega-3 fatty acid (FA) augmentation of sertraline on depression and cardiac endpoints after myocardial infarction (MI). "

Treatment of Hair Loss (Alopecia Areata ) Using Intradermal Injections of Botulinum Toxin

Treatment of Hair Loss (Alopecia Areata ) Using Intradermal Injections of Botulinum Toxin: "The purpose of this study is to examine prospectively the safety and efficacy of Botulinum Toxin A (Botox) injections in the treatment of patients with alopecia areata of the scalp. "

Ameriquest Mortgage Company Grant Program , Deadline January 15, 2007

Ameriquest Mortgage Company Grant Program , Deadline January 15, 2007: "Create Your Legacy is a unique grant program that encourages youth to develop an appreciation for community service and teamwork by evaluating the needs of their programs and their neighborhoods. Through Create Your Legacy, youth in participating after-school programs are invited to create and submit a video that demonstrates how they would invest $15,000 to improve their programs and neighborhoods"

EVEN SANTA NEEDS A LITTLE HELP EVERY NOW AND THEN

EVEN SANTA NEEDS A LITTLE HELP EVERY NOW AND THEN: " He may be able to visit every boy and girl around the world in one night, but Santa relies on the holiday magic of the US Postal Service to deliver his mail."

Deck the Halls with Boughs of...Minerals?

Deck the Halls with Boughs of...Minerals?: "Are cobalt oxide, sulfur, and cadmium sulfide used to make the traditional holiday hues in your seasonal decorations? Of course they are! undefined undefined According to U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists who collect worldwide data on almost all mineral resources, holiday lights are made with these and other minerals from around the world. The world’s supply of minerals — such as salt, manganese and lime — lights up the holiday season, helping many nations and cultures to celebrate their long-time traditions"

Hewlett-Packard $14.5 Million Settlement : Attorney General Lockyer Announces Settlement .....

Hewlett-Packard $14.5 Million Settlement : Attorney General Lockyer Announces ...... "(SAN JOSE) – Attorney General Bill Lockyer today announced Hewlett-Packard (HP) will finance a new law enforcement fund to fight violations of privacy and intellectual property rights, and adopt corporate governance reforms, under a $14.5 million settlement that resolves allegations the firm used false pretenses – or pretexting – to unlawfully access phone records during its probe of boardroom leaks to the media. "

Methamphetamine: NIDA InfoFacts

Methamphetamine: NIDA InfoFacts: "Methamphetamine is a very addictive stimulant drug that activates certain systems in the brain. It is chemically related to amphetamine but, at comparable doses, the effects of methamphetamine are much more potent, longer lasting, and more harmful to the central nervous system (CNS). "

EL NIÑO GAINS STRENGTH

EL NIÑO GAINS STRENGTH: "The latest El Niño/Southern Oscillation Diagnostic Discussion, produced by scientists at the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, indicates El Niño conditions are now evident in the tropical Pacific and should intensify during the next one to three months. However, this episode is expected to be much weaker than the very strong 1997-1998 El Niño event"

Risk of Death or Heart Attack With Drug-eluting Stents Appears Lower With Longer Use of Anti-clotting Treatment

Risk of Death or Heart Attack With Drug-eluting Stents Appears Lower With Longer Use of Anti-clotting Treatment: "Patients who receive drug-coated stents to open heart arteries may lower their risks of heart attack or death by taking an anti-platelet medication longer than current recommendations, according to a study funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and published today in the online version of JAMA. "

Money Laundering in Commercial Real Estate Industry: FinCEN Sees Growth in Suspected Money Laundering

Money Laundering in Commercial Real Estate Industry: FinCEN Sees Growth in Suspected Money Laundering: "The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) today released an assessment showing considerable growth in money laundering-related suspicious activity reporting associated with the commercial real estate industry. An examination of a sampling of Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) filed over a 10-year period found that the growth in filings began to accelerate in the 2003-2004 period. This increase correlates with an expansion of the real estate market and closely tracks similar trends seen in FinCEN’s recently-issued Mortgage Loan Fraud study."

Identity Theft: FTC Launches Redress Program for ChoicePoint Identity

Identity Theft: FTC Launches Redress Program for ChoicePoint Identity: "Today, the Federal Trade Commission mailed claims forms for reimbursement to more than 1,400 identity theft victims who experienced out-of-pocket expenses due to alleged security lapses at data broker ChoicePoint Inc. These victims, who were identified with the assistance of law enforcement, should receive the claims form with instructions on how to file a claim. "

One in Every 32 Adults Was In A Prison, Jail, On Probation, Or On Parole At The End Of 2005

One in Every 32 Adults Was In A Prison, Jail, On Probation, Or On Parole At The End Of 2005: "As of last Dec. 31 there were 1,525,924 prisoners being held by state and federal correctional authorities, the Justice Department's Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) announced in a report published today. At the same time a separate BJS survey found that the adult U.S. correctional population, including those on probation or parole, reached a high of more than 7 million men and women for the first time. About 3 percent of the U.S. adult population, or 1 in every 32 adults, were in the nation's prisons and jails or on probation or parole at the end of last year. "

SERIOUS VIOLENT CRIME AT SCHOOL CONTINUES TO FALL

SERIOUS VIOLENT CRIME AT SCHOOL CONTINUES TO FALL: "The rate of serious violent crime –– rape, sexual assault, robbery and aggravated assault –– at the nation's schools fell from six victimizations per 1,000 students in 2003 to four per 1,000 in 2004, according to a new report by the Justice Department's Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) and the Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics"

U.S. Postal Service: Build Your Own Holiday Cards: Quick, Easy, Convenient

U.S. Postal Service: Build Your Own Holiday Cards: Quick, Easy, Convenient: "The U.S. Postal Service makes it possible through its online CardStore, where customers can chose from more than 50 holiday card designs, upload an address book, add postage and hit the send button. The Postal Service takes care of the rest"

Many Happy Returns? Retailers Must Disclose Their Return Policies to Holiday Shoppers if Extra Conditions

Many Happy Returns? Retailers Must Disclose Their Return Policies to Holiday Shoppers if Extra Conditions: "California law protects retail customers from unfair or deceptive return practices. But the law allows retailers to impose conditions on returns -- such as restocking fees -- as long as customers are advised of the conditions prior to purchase."

Holiday Shoppers Beware—Identity Thieves at a Mall Near You

Holiday Shoppers Beware—Identity Thieves at a Mall Near You: "While you’re busy shopping for that perfect holiday gift, criminals are also searching for a one-of-a-kind item: your identity.
Holiday shoppers should take special care to protect their identities from thieves, says the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.). The increased spending during the holiday season provides more opportunities for criminals to steal your identity."

Auto Insurance Premiums Expected to Drop in 2007 for First Time Since 1999

Auto Insurance Premiums Expected to Drop in 2007 for First Time Since 1999: "The typical U.S. driver will pay less for auto insurance in 2007 than in 2006, with the average premium expenditure expected to drop by 0.5 percent, reported the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.)
The average annual cost for auto insurance premiums nationwide for 2007 is estimated at $847 per policy, the first decrease since 1999. This translates into a $4 per policy savings as compared to the $851"

Prostate Cancer Treatment: Lycopene or Omega-3 Fatty Acid Nutritional Supplements in Treating Patients With Stage I or Stage II Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer Treatment: Lycopene or Omega-3 Fatty Acid Nutritional Supplements in Treating Patients With Stage I or Stage II Prostate Cancer: "The use of lycopene, a substance found in tomatoes, or omega-3 fatty acid nutritional supplements may keep cancer from growing in patients with prostate cancer"

Donation to Charities: IRS Establishes New Guidelines

Donation to Charities: IRS Establishes New Guidelines: "The Internal Revenue Service announced today new guidelines for taxpayers to follow to substantiate donations to charities that were made by payroll deductions."

Domain Name Registry Update: NTIA Approves New .Com Domain Name Registry Agreement

Domain Name Registry Update: NTIA Approves New .Com Domain Name Registry Agreement: "The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) approved today a new .com domain name registry agreement between the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and VeriSign Inc. The new agreement allows VeriSign to operate the .com domain through 2012"

IRS Reporting And Withholding: Treasury And IRS Issue Notice On Reporting And Withholding For Amounts Includible In Gross Income Under Code Section 409A

IRS Reporting And Withholding: Treasury And IRS Issue Notice On Reporting And Withholding For Amounts Includible In Gross Income Under Code Section 409A: "Today Treasury and the IRS issued Notice 2006-100 providing guidance to employers and payers on their reporting and wage withholding requirements for calendar years 2005 and 2006 with respect to deferrals of compensation and amounts includible in gross income under IRC § 409A and relief from reporting deferrals that are not includible in income during those years. The notice supersedes Notice 2005-94. "

Auto Recall:Recall of Certain 2007 Buick, Chevrolet, and Pontiac Models

Auto Recall:Recall of Certain 2007 Buick, Chevrolet, and Pontiac Models: "On the 2007 Buick Lacrosse, Chevrolet Impala, and Pontiac Grand Prix, GMC is recalling the latest models because the fuel tanks on the models are missing the adhesive layer that bonds the barrier layer to the outer shell of the fuel tank."

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."