Holiday Loans" and Other "Special Deals": Beware – They Can Spoil Your New Year

Holiday Loans" and Other "Special Deals": Beware – They Can Spoil Your New Year - Tempted by those signs that offer easy money for the holidays? Don't be. Think that a quick cash loan sounds too good to be true? It probably is."

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING MADE EASY- USPS proposal will simplify International Mail products

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING MADE EASY- USPS proposal will simplify International Mail products The U.S. Postal Service is proposing changes to make its International Mail products easier to use. The changes will introduce the most familiar and trusted USPS domestic product names — First-Class Mail, Priority Mail and Express Mail — into the International product portfolio, making it easier for customers to mail cards, letters and packages worldwide.

IRS To Begin Processing Suspended Cash Balance Plan Conversion Applications

IRS To Begin Processing Suspended Cash Balance Plan Conversion Applications -The Internal Revenue Service today announced it is lifting a moratorium on determination letter applications for conversions from traditional defined benefit pension plans to so-called cash balance plans.

Participants Wanted for 2007 Text Retrieval Trials

Participants Wanted for 2007 Text Retrieval Trials: " he National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking participants for its upcoming Text Retrieval Conference—TREC 2007. Since 1992, TREC has been fostering research to enable more powerful, faster and easier-to-use technologies for information retrieval. TREC 2007 will focus on seven tracks—including a blog track, to explore information seeking behavior in the blogosphere, and a legal track to develop search technology to help the legal profession find information pertinent to a case in digital document collections. "

Health Insurance: New Data Compares Health Insurance Costs Among Cities

Health Insurance: New Data Compares Health Insurance Costs Among Cities: "A new federal database for the first time allows companies, consumers, health care analysts and others to compare health insurance costs among the Nation's largest cities and other geographical areas. This new metropolitan area data table developed by the Department of Health & Human Services' (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) provides comparable statistics on average annual costs for companies and workers contributing to private-sector health insurance. "

Fastest-Growing State - Arizona Edges Nevada as Fastest-Growing State

Fastest-Growing State - Arizona Edges Nevada as Fastest-Growing State Arizona was the nation’s fastest-growing state over the period, breaking Nevada’s grip on the title, with its population rising 3.6 percent. Nevada ranked second this time,as its population climbed by 3.5 percent, followed by Idaho (2.6 percent), Georgia (2.6 percent) and Texas (2.5 percent). (See Table A below.) The South and West again monopolized the list of fastest-growing states with Utah, North Carolina, Colorado, Florida and South Carolina rounding out the top 10. Colorado and South Carolina replaced Delaware and Oregon on the list this year.

Thousands of Arizona's Flood-Prone Homes Lack Flood Insurance

Thousands of Arizona's Flood-Prone Homes Lack Flood Insurance Despite last summer's severe monsoons and the threat of impending El Niño storms, only 21 percent of the homes and other buildings at high risk for flooding in Arizona are covered by flood insurance, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

OOSHA Fines Masonry Contractor $220,000 by U.S. Labor for Scaffold and Fall Hazards at Enfield Worksite

OOSHA Fines Masonry Contractor $220,000 by U.S. Labor for Scaffold and Fall Hazards at Enfield Worksite: "OSHA's inspection found that a scaffold was missing its top, middle and end rails and that scaffold frames, rather than ladders, were being used to access upper levels, two conditions that exposed employees to fall hazards of 12 to 20 feet. OSHA issued two willful citations and proposed $140,000 in fines for these items. OSHA defines a willful violation as one committed with an intentional disregard of, or plain indifference to, the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act and regulations."

Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Products

Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Products: "Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Windows and Visual Studio could allow an attacker to gain control of your computer."

GET A GREAT DEAL ON A NEW CAR

GET A GREAT DEAL ON A NEW CAR: "Before you pick out the interior color and trim on your new car, you need to make sure the deal you’re getting is a good one. Get helpful hints on how to make a smart purchase with How to Get a Great Deal on a New Car "

Craving, Binge Eating and Obesity

Craving, Binge Eating and Obesity: "This research study is designed to look at the effectiveness of bupropion for reducing binge eating in overweight persons with binge eating problems. Participants in the study will receive either bupropion or placebo (”sugar” pill, inactive medication) as an outpatient for eight weeks. In addition, participants will be given the option to receive 8 weeks of free behavioral weight loss treatment. This treatment, known to be effective for reducing binge eating and helping people lose weight, will be administered following the medication phase and at no cost"

Craving, Binge Eating and Obesity

Craving, Binge Eating and Obesity: "This research study is designed to look at the effectiveness of bupropion for reducing binge eating in overweight persons with binge eating problems. Participants in the study will receive either bupropion or placebo (”sugar” pill, inactive medication) as an outpatient for eight weeks. In addition, participants will be given the option to receive 8 weeks of free behavioral weight loss treatment. This treatment, known to be effective for reducing binge eating and helping people lose weight, will be administered following the medication phase and at no cost"

Grant Notice:Gang Member Reentry Assistance Project

Grant Notice:Gang Member Reentry Assistance Project: "The Gang Member Reentry Assistance Project, part of the Prisoner Reentry Initiative (PRI), focuses on developing tools, strategies, and training products that will assist law enforcement and corrections agencies in addressing the many issues faced by returning juvenile and adult gang offenders. "

New Postal Law - First major change to the Postal Service since 1971

New Postal Law - First major change to the Postal Service since 1971: "President George W. Bush today signed into law new postal legislation that will benefit both residential and business customers by ensuring predictable price increases tied to the rate of inflation. "

FCC Releases Report on 2005 Cable Industry Prices

FCC Releases Report on 2005 Cable Industry Prices: "The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today released its annual report on cable industry prices. The report shows that average monthly rates for cable service -- including basic and expanded basic cable programming services -- increased by 5.2 percent over the 12-month period ending January 1, 2005, from $40.91 to $43.04, and by 93 percent since the period immediately prior to Congress’s enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. "

Grant Notice: New Digital Innovation Program, "Advancing Knowledge

Grant Notice: New Digital Innovation Program, "Advancing Knowledge: "National Endowment for the Humanities and Institute of Museum and Library Services Invite Grant Applications for New Digital Innovation Program, 'Advancing Knowledge"

First Hydrogen Powered Santa Sleigh To Fly Through U.S. Airspace This Holiday Season

First Hydrogen Powered Santa Sleigh To Fly Through U.S. Airspace This Holiday Season: "Saying that Santa “is going green,” U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary E. Peters today certified the first-ever hydrogen powered sleigh as safe to operate in U.S. airspace this holiday season. “Santa’s new sleigh is a hybrid vehicle that can fly using either the traditional eight tiny reindeer or modern hydrogen fuel cells. The hydrogen sleigh is quieter, so Santa can make his deliveries without waking children and disturbing the visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads,” Secretary Peters said. "

Santa Citings across the United States

Santa Citings across the United States: "’Twas the night before Christmas in the U.S. of A. and 'Santa' was spotted, but not with his sleigh. He was spotted in Georgia and Texas and Maine . In Nevada and Utah , he was spotted again. Arizona , Oregon , and on up the West Coast, but Indiana is where he's cited the most."

Year-End Donations: IRS Offers Tips for Year-End Donations

Year-End Donations: IRS Offers Tips for Year-End Donations: "New Tax Break for IRA Owners
An IRA owner, age 70 ½ or over, can directly transfer tax-free, up to $100,000 per year to an eligible charitable organization. This option is available in tax years 2006 and 2007. Eligible IRA owners can take advantage of this provision, regardless of whether they itemize their deductions. Distributions from employer-sponsored retirement plans, including SIMPLE IRAs and simplified employee pension (SEP) plans are not eligible."

Year-End Donations: IRS Offers Tips for Year-End Donations

Year-End Donations: IRS Offers Tips for Year-End Donations: "New Tax Break for IRA Owners -
An IRA owner, age 70 ½ or over, can directly transfer tax-free, up to $100,000 per year to an eligible charitable organization. This option is available in tax years 2006 and 2007. Eligible IRA owners can take advantage of this provision, regardless of whether they itemize their deductions. Distributions from employer-sponsored retirement plans, including SIMPLE IRAs and simplified employee pension (SEP) plans are not eligible."

U.S. and India Sign Historic MOU on Intellectual Property

U.S. and India Sign Historic MOU on Intellectual Property: "This MOU is a first between the United States and India on intellectual property issues, and it will open the door for an unprecedented level of cooperation and sharing of best practices,' said Under Secretary Dudas. "

HUD Homes Nationwide Sales Event: FHA Special Homes Sales Event - deadline January 7, 2007

HUD Homes Nationwide Sales Event: FHA Special Homes Sales Event - deadline January 7, 2007

HUD Homes Nationwide Sales Event: FHA Special Homes Sales Event - deadline January 7, 2007

HUD Homes Nationwide Sales Event: FHA Special Homes Sales Event - deadline January 7, 2007

Herbal Supplement Fails To Relieve Hot Flashes In Large Nih Trial

Herbal Supplement Fails To Relieve Hot Flashes In Large Nih Trial: "The herbal supplement black cohosh, whether used alone or with other botanical supplements, did not relieve hot flashes in postmenopausal women or those approaching menopause, who participated in the Herbal Alternatives (HALT) for Menopause Study, according to results from the clinical trial. The research, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), found that women using menopausal hormone therapy, however, did receive significant relief from their hot flashes and night sweats."

IT Security Forum Presentations - November 7

IT Security Forum Presentations "Identity & Access Management,
Establishing and Managing a , Wireless Vulnerabilities and Exploits, Spyware Update, Database Attacks, How to Protect the Corporate Asset and more "

Tax Refunds - FTB Seeks Owners of Tax Refunds that are Missing in Action

Tax Refunds - FTB Seeks Owners of Tax Refunds that are Missing in Action: "The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) is trying to make the holidays a little easier for thousands of Californian taxpayers who are owed more than $10.5 million in tax refunds. However, the problem is finding the missing taxpayers."

Holiday Shopping Countdown -Returns and Exchanges: Know the Rules Before Buying

Holiday Shopping Countdown -Returns and Exchanges: Know the Rules Before Buying: "Attention, Holiday Shoppers. It's important to learn about a retailer's return policies before buying gifts.
Consumers often expect stores or catalog companies will give them a refund, credit or exchange when they return items. But that's not always the case. Some companies may have policies that limit exchanges or returns for all customers. Others may claim they can restrict exchange rights for particular customers. So before making a purchase, very carefully check the store's policy. California law gives you the right to know a company's refund policy before you buy."

State Seeks Senior Engineer for California Board for Professional Engineers And Land Surveyors

State Seeks Senior Engineer for California Board for Professional Engineers And Land Surveyors - The Board is currently recruiting to fill its vacant Staff Senior Engineering Registrar (Electrical and Mechanical Engineering programs) position. Applicants must possess a valid license as either an Electrical or a Mechanical Engineer and must have state civil service eligibility. Click the link above for further information about applying for this position on the Board’s staff.

Adult Male Circumcision Reduces Risk of Acquiring HIV

Adult Male Circumcision Reduces Risk of Acquiring HIV: "Medically performed circumcision significantly reduces a man's risk of acquiring HIV through heterosexual intercourse, according to an interim review of data from two clinical trials. As a result, NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) announced an early end to the trials this week."

Planning a Winter Getaway? Insurance Is Available in the Event of a Disaster

Planning a Winter Getaway? Insurance Is Available in the Event of a Disaster: "Before sailing off on a cruise or hitting the slopes, make sure that you have adequate insurance to protect your financial investment in a pre-paid vacation, said the Insurance Information Institute "

First crash tests of minicars: Nissan Versa earns the highest overall rating; three minicars earn poor ratings in side tests

First crash tests of minicars: Nissan Versa earns the highest overall rating; three minicars earn poor ratings in side tests: " For the first time, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has tested the smallest vehicles sold in the US market, which gain popularity as fuel prices rise. Now these cars are rated for comparison of occupant protection in front, side, and rear crashes. The Nissan Versa earns good ratings in all three tests. Two other cars earn good ratings in front and side but not rear tests"

High Definition Television vs Regular TV - What 's the Difference?

High Definition Television vs Regular TV - What 's the Difference?: "HDTV is high definition television and it can make an enormous difference in your television viewing experience. Many consumers describe the HDTV experience as being closer to watching a movie in the theater than watching a standard television set. HDTV offers a digital picture with a higher resolution than normal television screens."

Coping with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Coping with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: "Living with chronic fatigue syndrome can be difficult. Like other debilitating chronic illnesses, CFS can have a profound impact on daily life, requiring patients to make significant lifestyle changes and adapt to a series of new limitations."

New Laws for 2007 - Driver License

New DMV Laws for 2007 - Driver License - Cell Phones—Operative July 1, 2008
Requires the use of hands-free wireless phones as of July 1, 2008, with limited exceptions.

Tattoo Piercing : Can I get HIV from getting a tattoo or through body piercing?

Tattoo Piercing : Can I get HIV from getting a tattoo or through body piercing?: "A risk of HIV transmission does exist if instruments contaminated with blood are either not sterilized or disinfected or are used inappropriately between clients. CDC recommends that instruments that are intended to penetrate the skin be used once, then disposed of or thoroughly cleaned and sterilized between clients"

Nursing Grants: Advanced Education Nursing Traineeship

Nursing Grants: Advanced Education Nursing Traineeship: "The grants are awarded to provide financial support through traineeships for registered nurses enrolled in advanced education nursing programs to prepare nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, nurse administrators, nurse educators, public health nurses and nurses in other specialties requiring advanced education. The traineeship program is a formula program so all approved applicants will receive funds. "

High-Risk Prostate Cancer: GM-CSF and Thalidomide Treatment

High-Risk Prostate Cancer: GM-CSF and Thalidomide Treatment: "This purpose of this study is to determine how well giving GM-CSF together with thalidomide works in treating patients undergoing surgery for high-risk prostate cancer. "

Looking for Love? Valentine’s Day 2007: Feb. 14

Looking for Love? Valentine’s Day 2007: Feb. 14: "2.2 million is the number of marriages that take place in the United States annually. That breaks down to more than 6,000 a day."

UPDATE: E. coli O157:H7 Outbreak at Taco Bell Restaurants Likely Over

UPDATE: E. coli O157:H7 Outbreak at Taco Bell Restaurants Likely Over: "Today, the U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that the E. coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to Taco Bell restaurants in Northeastern states appears to be over. However, additional cases from the outbreak period could still be identified."

Forex Fraud: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Forex Fraud: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! -In a recent period, the CFTC filed over 80 enforcement actions in federal court against hundreds of firms, owners and employees for defrauding over 23,000 customers who lost over $300 million in these Forex schemes.

MLB 07 THE SHOW™ ANNOUNCED FOR PLAYSTATION®3

MLB 07 THE SHOW™ ANNOUNCED FOR PLAYSTATION®3: "Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) officially announced today that MLB 07 The Show™ will be availablein Spring 2007, exclusively for the PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment system, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system. "

Drug Abuse on the Mexico–U.S. Border: Implications for HIV/AIDS Transmission

Drug Abuse on the Mexico–U.S. Border: Implications for HIV/AIDS Transmission: "An analysis of admissions data from substance abuse treatment programs shows increased abuse of methamphetamine and crack cocaine along the U.S.–Mexico border. Abuse of these drugs is a risk factor for HIV/AIDS, either from druginfluenced risky sexual behavior or from sharing injection equipment. Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin analyzed trends in drug treatment admissions collected from national data sets along both sides of the U.S.–Mexico border as well as from a NIDA-funded survey along the Texas border."

TAco Bell E-Coli Update

TAco Bell E-Coli Update: "The Food and Drug Administration is continuing its investigation of an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections linked to eating food from Taco Bell restaurants in 5 states. FDA is collaborating with state and local health officials, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the firm to identify the cause of the outbreak. "

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"

Medical Errors: Physicians' Extended Work Shifts Associated With Increased Risk of Medical Errors That Harm Patients

Medical Errors: Physicians' Extended Work Shifts Associated With Increased Risk of Medical Errors That Harm Patients: "The study, which was funded by the Department of Health & Human Services's (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, is published on December 12 in the online journal PLoS Medicine"

IRS Interest Rates: No Change in Interest Rates for the First Quarter of 2007

IRS Interest Rates: No Change in Interest Rates for the First Quarter of 2007: "The Internal Revenue Service today announced there will be no change in the interest rates for the calendar quarter beginning January 1, 2007. The interest rates are as follows"

Just Released: State of Childhood Asthma, United States: 1980-2005

Just Released: State of Childhood Asthma, United States: 1980-2005: "A new report on childhood asthma released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that death rates for asthma among children under age 18 have declined since 1999, while doctor visits for the condition have more than doubled over the past decade"

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."