Antarctica Awaits: Take a Trip Without Ever Leaving Your Home

Antarctica Awaits: Take a Trip Without Ever Leaving Your Home: "Take a quick and fun trip to the coldest continent, Antarctica, without ever leaving the comforts of home or office. The USGS, in collaboration with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the British Antarctic Survey, has completed work on a unique and versatile map of Antarctica"

Student Aid Webinar: Student Assistance Legislation and Regulations Webinar Now Available

Student Aid Webinar: Student Assistance Legislation and Regulations Webinar Now Available: "This letter announces the release of two (2) separate recordings of the internet briefings by Federal Student Aid's Policy Liaison and Implementation staff related to the College Cost Reduction and Access Act (CCRAA) and the recently published final rules affecting the Title IV student assistance programs."

300,000 Toys Recalled by Dollar Tree Stores Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

300,000 Toys Recalled by Dollar Tree Stores Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard: "Baby Toys Baby Bead & Wire Toys and Speed Racer Pull Back & Go Action! Cars have been recalled due to excessive levels of lead"

Are Tattoos Safe? Think Before You Ink

Are Tattoos Safe? Think Before You Ink: "As the popularity of tattoos continues to grow, so does the concern about potential risks. Some risks, such as the spread of infections through the use of unsterilized needles, have long been known. But what isn't clear is the safety of tattoo inks"

Closing of the United States Patent and Trademark Office on Monday, December 24, 2007

Closing of the United States Patent and Trademark Office on Monday, December 24, 2007: "The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will be closed on Monday, December 24, 2007. Since Tuesday, December 25, 2007 is a Federal holiday, the USPTO will consider each of Monday, December 24, 2007 and Tuesday, December 25, 2007, to be a 'Federal holiday within the District of Columbia"

Application Fees for Non-Immigrant Visas to Increase On January 1, 2008

Application Fees for Non-Immigrant Visas to Increase On January 1, 2008: "Effective January 1, 2008, the application fee for a U.S. non-immigrant visa will increase from $100 to $131. This increase allows the Department to recover the costs of security and other enhancements to the non-immigrant visa application process. This increase applies both to non-immigrant visas issued on machine-readable foils in passports and to border crossing cards issued to certain applicants in Mexico."

Valentine's Day 2008: Feb. 14: Love is in the air

Valentine's Day 2008: Feb. 14: Love is in the air: "2.2 million is the number of marriages that take place in the United States annually. That breaks down to 5,918 a day."

IRS Fast Track Settlement Program Expands

IRS Fast Track Settlement Program Expands: "The Internal Revenue Service today announced it is expanding the number of test areas for the Fast Track Settlement program for taxpayers under examination by the Small Business/Self-Employed Division. The settlement program is now available for small businesses and self-employed taxpayers until Sept. 5, 2008, in five new areas, including Philadelphia, central New Jersey, San Diego, Laguna Nigel, Calif., and Riverside, Calif."

Peace Corps Officially Reopens in Ethiopia

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA, Director Ron Tschetter swore-in 42 Peace Corps Volunteers today, marking the return of Peace Corps Ethiopia. All 42 Volunteers will focus on the prevention, care, and treatment of HIV/AIDS in the East African country Peace Corps Officially Reopens in Ethiopia

Shopping Safely Online

Online shopping has become a popular way to purchase items without the hassles of traffic and crowds. However, the Internet has unique risks, so it is important to take steps to protect yourself when shopping online. Shopping Safely Online

Don't Print Full Credit and Debit Card Numbers on Customers' Purchase Receipts: FTC Reminds Businesses

As merchants get busier with holiday shopping, the Federal Trade Commission reminds them to be sure the credit and debit card receipts they give customers comply with federal law.
To reduce the risk of fraud and identity theft, the electronically printed credit and debit card receipts given to consumers must not include more than the last five digits of the card number, and must not show the expiration date. Don't Print Full Credit and Debit Card Numbers on Customers' Purchase Receipts: FTC Reminds Businesses

Blue Shield Penalized: California Announces $12.6 Million Action Against Blue Shield For Rescissions And Poor Claims Processing

Blue Shield Penalized: California Announces $12.6 Million Action Against Blue Shield For Rescissions And Poor Claims Processing: "Commissioner cites more than 1,200 violations of law - LOS ANGELES - California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner today announced that he is seeking $12.6 million in fines and penalties against health insurer Blue Shield for violations regarding healthcare rescissions and irresponsible claims processing"

The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco Announces 2008 Board of Directors

The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco Announces 2008 Board of Directors: "San Francisco, December 13, 2007 – Two new members join the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco's board of directors, William D. Jones, president and CEO of San Diego-based CityLink Investment Corporation, and Daniel P. Myers, president and CEO of Bridge Bank, N.A., located in San Jose, California, were both elected for three-year terms beginning January 1, 2008."

Free Package Pickup a Click Away

Free Package Pickup a Click Away: "Give Santa a helping hand this year. Let the Postal Service pick up holiday gift packages from home — and save a trip to the Post Office at the same time. With free package pickup, customers can take advantage of the personal convenience and service of having packages picked up at their home or office. Unlike other shipping companies, free package pickup truly is free. There are no fees for the service."

Grant Notice: Food and Nutrition Interventions for People Living with HIV/AIDS

Grant Notice: Food and Nutrition Interventions for People Living with HIV/AIDS: "USAID/Rwanda announces its intention to invite comments and suggestions on a draft Program Description for the implementation of 'the Food and Nutrition Interventions for People Living with HIV/AIDS' Program in Rwanda. The main objective is to integrate the nutrition activities of the food distributing organizations that are already distributing food to malnourished Rwandans with the goal of assisting those living with HIV/AIDS. It is anticipated that organizations wishing to apply must have significant food resources available for distribution in Rwanda. "

Local Hunter Fined for Using Bait to Attract Ducks

Local Hunter Fined for Using Bait to Attract Ducks: "Corn found in a shallow pond near Milford, Del., shortly before duck hunting season a year ago alerted a state law enforcement agent to the possibility of illegal baiting. Federal regulations govern waterfowl hunting, and they prohibit placing bait such as grain or corn to entice waterfowl to hunters"

Doctors and Dentists Account for 27 Percent of $1.6 Trillion in Health Care Revenue

Doctors and Dentists Account for 27 Percent of $1.6 Trillion in Health Care Revenue: "Physician’s offices accounted for $330 billion in revenue in 2006, while the dental profession made up another $87 billion of the $1.6 trillion in revenue of the health care and social assistance sector, according to a U.S. Census Bureau report."

U.S. Urges Mexican Holiday Travelers to Apply Early for I-94 Documents at San Ysidro and Otay Mesa Ports of Entry

U.S. Urges Mexican Holiday Travelers to Apply Early for I-94 Documents at San Ysidro and Otay Mesa Ports of Entry: "San Ysidro, Calif. – Mexican border crossing card (or “laser visa”) holders who plan to make an extended visit to the United States during the December holiday season will be able to obtain an essential visit document faster and more conveniently due to a change in processing procedure being implemented at the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa border stations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials announced today. Beginning Dec. 14, travelers seeking I-94 documents at the San Ysidro port of entry may apply at any time, day or night, up to 30-days in advance rather than waiting in line during the busy holidays when almost 3,000 visitors apply daily for the permit"

Update: Methadone Hydrochloride Tablets USP 40 mg

Update: Methadone Hydrochloride Tablets USP 40 mg: "As of January 1, 2008, manufacturers of methadone hydrochloride tablets 40 mg (dispersible) have voluntarily agreed to restrict distribution of this formulation to only those facilities authorized for detoxification and maintenance treatment of opioid addiction, and hospitals. Manufacturers will instruct their wholesale distributors to discontinue supplying this formulation to any facility not meeting the above criteria"

Target Corp. To Pay $510,000 For Race Discrimination

Target Corp. To Pay $510,000 For Race Discrimination: "MILWAUKEE – U.S. District Judge Rudolph T. Randa today signed a consent decree ending a lawsuit by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) against Target Corporation for violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by not hiring African Americans in the retail giant’s District 110 (Milwaukee and Madison, Wisc.) based on their race, and by failing to keep documents as required by law."

Medical and Academic Partnerships Grants Announcement - Deadline January 15, 2008

Medical and Academic Partnerships Grants Announcement - Deadline January 15, 2008: "Pfizer is accepting applications for its Medical and Academic Partnerships Grants to support career development of junior physician-scientists, post-doctoral researchers, junior faculty members, or visits by experts to academic institutions, teaching hospitals, or other eligible organizations. Award amounts are: $65,000 per year for 2 years for the Fellowship or Scholars Grants; and $7,500 each for Visiting Professorships."

Illegal Gun Possession: California Cracks Down On Illegal Gun Possession

Illegal Gun Possession: California Cracks Down On Illegal Gun Possession California Attorney General Edmund G. Brown Jr. and Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton today announced the seizure of 541 handguns, rifles and assault weapons during a "statewide crackdown" on 1,000 dangerous individuals barred from firearms possession because of violent felony convictions.

BLS Announces Occupations with the largest projected job growth

The 30 occupations with the largest projected job growth between 2006 and 2016 will account for over half of all new jobs. Those 30 occupations are projected to add 8.1 million jobs. BLS Announces Occupations with the largest projected job growth,

California's Minimum Wage increases to $8 per hour on January 1

California workers who earn the minimum wage will see their pay increase to $8 per hour starting, Jan. 1, 2008. California will be tied with Massachusetts for the highest state minimum wage in the nation. California's Minimum Wage increases to $8 per hour on January 1

FEMA Closely Monitors Pacific Northwest Flooding

FEMA Closely Monitors Pacific Northwest Flooding: "The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is closely monitoring flooding in the Pacific Northwest. The coastal storm that came ashore on December 1, 2007, has moved inland, bringing increased flood risk throughout western Washington and Oregon. Additional flooding is expected along some rivers in both states"

IRS Issues List of Vehicles that Qualify for the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit

IRS Issues List of Vehicles that Qualify for the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit: " Purchasers of certain large trucks, buses or other heavy vehicles running on alternative fuel can claim a credit of up $32,000, and purchasers of certain large hybrid trucks and other heavy hybrid vehicles can claim a credit of up to $12,000 if they qualify for the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit. "

Teen Birth Rate Rises for First Time in 14 Years

Teen Birth Rate Rises for First Time in 14 Years: "The teen birth rate in the United States rose in 2006 for the first time since 1991, and unmarried childbearing also rose significantly, according to preliminary birth statistics released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)."

Air Traffic Controller Staffing and Fatigue

Air Traffic Controller Staffing and Fatigue: "The FAA has been extremely successful at hiring and training controllers nationwide over the past three years, following the strategy outlined in the annual Controller Workforce Plan. In fiscal year 2007, the FAA hired 1,815 new air traffic controllers and expects to hire a similar number of new controllers this year. Staffing at the vast majority of FAA Air Traffic facilities falls within the authorized staffing range included in the Workforce Plan. At the end of September 2007, the FAA had a controller workforce of 14,874, well above the planned target of 14,807."

Home Loan & Foreclosure Help

Home Loan & Foreclosure Help

The New Climate for Mortgage Borrowers

The New Climate for Mortgage Borrowers: "Credit may be tougher to get, but good loan programs are still available. Even people having difficulty paying their mortgages have options for saving their homes from foreclosure"

Working Moms: Labor force participation rate of mothers, 1975-2006

Working Moms: Labor force participation rate of mothers, 1975-2006: "From 1975 to 2000, the labor force participation rate of mothers with children under age 18 rose from 47 to 73 percent. "

Stem Cells: Versatile Human Stem Cells Created Without Embryos

Stem Cells: Versatile Human Stem Cells Created Without Embryos: "Two separate research teams have figured out how to 'reprogram' cells with just a handful of genes to give them the characteristics of embryonic stem cells. The breakthrough may eventually put to rest the ethical controversy surrounding stem cells."

White House 2007 Holiday Theme: National Parks

White House 2007 Holiday Theme: National Parks: "America' s national parks are the focus of this year’s White House holiday decorations. The remarkable displays of ' Holiday in the National Parks' highlight the majesty, history, and diversity of the country’s 391 national parks"

Finding Government Information Online: A Free Tutorial

Finding Government Information Online: A Free Tutorial: "Learn how to accomplish government tasks and access government information and services on the Internet. The tutorials are available in Flash and in an Accessible Version. To view in Flash, you may need to download a free version"

Healthy Feet are Happy Feet

CDC - Podcasts: " This podcast offers tips for people with diabetes on foot care to prevent complications, such as foot ulcers and amputation. "

Coping With Depression and Thoughts of Suicide After a Disaster

CDC - Podcasts: "Coping With Depression and Thoughts of Suicide After a Disaster"

Governor Schwarzenegger Launches Public Awareness Campaign to Help Homeowners Avoid Foreclosure

Governor Schwarzenegger Launches Public Awareness Campaign to Help Homeowners Avoid Foreclosure: "Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today launched a public awareness campaign to educate homeowners about options that can help them avoid losing their homes to foreclosure. "

Driving to Distraction - It's Not Just Cell Phones - Texting, Eating and Grooming All Prove Hazardous on the Road

Driving to Distraction - It's Not Just Cell Phones - Texting, Eating and Grooming All Prove Hazardous on the Road: "This month New Jersey became the second state after Washington to ban driving while texting—a growing problem on the road. Distractions like cell phones, text messages, the radio or even talkative passengers can prove deadly, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.)."

Botnets: Cracking Down on Cyber Crime - The FBI Reports

Botnets: Cracking Down on Cyber Crime - The FBI Reports: "It’s the season for online shopping and spending, and you’ll be glad to know that we’ve stepped up our fight against one of the most serious cyber security threats just in time for the holidays. That threat involves what are called ‘botnets’—armies of personal computers taken over by cyber criminals and used on the sly to commit all kinds of mischief, from identity theft to denial of service attacks to massive spam campaigns. Bah, humbug. "

OSHA Issues Confined Spaces in Construction Proposed Rule

OSHA Issues Confined Spaces in Construction Proposed Rule: "U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) today published in the Federal Register a proposed rule to enhance the protection provided to construction employees working in confined spaces. The agency is accepting public comments on the proposed standard until January 28, 2008"

PBWC Announces Madeleine Albright and Cokie Roberts as Keynote Speakers

PBWC Announces Madeleine Albright and Cokie Roberts as Keynote Speakers The Professional Business Women of California is pleased to announce Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and ABC News Political Commentator & NPR Senior News Analyst Cokie Roberts as keynote speakers for its 19th Annual Conference to be held April 29, 2008 at Moscone Center in San Francisco.

Free Gifts Weren't Free; FTC Settlement Calls for $650,000 Civil Penalty

A large online advertiser that drove traffic to its Web sites using spam e-mails with misleading subject lines has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it failed to disclose that consumers have to spend money to receive the so-called "free" gifts it offers. Free Gifts Weren't Free; FTC Settlement Calls for $650,000 Civil Penalty

IRS Announces 2008 Standard Mileage Rates; Rate for Business Miles Set at 50.5 Cents per Mile

IRS Announces 2008 Standard Mileage Rates; Rate for Business Miles Set at 50.5 Cents per Mile: "WASHINGTON -- The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2008 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes."

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

With so many people planning to visit family and friends over the holidays, 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) Renting a Car for the Holidays? The I.I.I. Provides Rental Car Insurance Tips

Latest Malibu Fire Victims May Be Eligible For Disaster Aid

PASADENA, Calif. -- Homeowners, renters and businesses affected by the most recent Malibu fire may register for disaster assistance from federal and state agencies along with Southern California residents who lost property during the October/November wildfires. Latest Malibu Fire Victims May Be Eligible For Disaster Aid

Debt Collection Services RFP- Bid Submittal Deadline 12/5/2007

Debt Collection Services RFP- Bid Submittal Deadline 12/5/2007: "The California Department of Insurance is soliciting proposals for the selection of a prime contractor to provide debt collection services. Proposer organizations must have been in the debt collection service for at least five (5) years, and must have at least one California office. Proposer must provide one contract manager with at least five (5) years debt collection experience. "

Pre-Employment Physical Exam Services RFP - Bid Submittal Deadline 12/5/2007 4:30 PM

Pre-Employment Physical Exam Services RFP - Bid Submittal Deadline 12/5/2007 4:30 PM: "These services are to provide comprehensive pre-employment physical exams for the Department of Mental Health, Coalinga State Hospital, employees, potential employees, staff, and other persons as ordered by the Coalinga State Hospital physician."

Server Based Computing Service RFP- Bid Submittal Deadline 12/6/2007

Server Based Computing Service RFP- Bid Submittal Deadline 12/6/2007

Federal Court Finds Kevin Trudeau in Civil Contempt

Federal Court Finds Kevin Trudeau in Civil Contempt: "On November 16, 2007, a U.S. District Court judge found Kevin Trudeau in contempt of court for violating a 2004 permanent injunction. The Court found that Trudeau violated the permanent injunction when he misrepresented the contents of his book, “The Weight Loss Cure ‘They’ Don’t Want You to Know About,” in several infomercials. "

Budget Rent-A-Car Settles FTC Charges on Fuel Fees

Budget Rent-A-Car Settles FTC Charges on Fuel Fees: "Budget Rent-A-Car has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it failed to adequately disclose a “fuel” fee automatically charged to customers who drove fewer than 75 miles. According to the FTC, Budget falsely claimed that renters who returned a car with a full gas tank would not incur any fuel charges. The agency alleges that renters who drove fewer than 75 miles incurred a fuel charge whether or not they returned the car full. The settlement bars Budget from misrepresenting any charge, fee, cost, or material term or condition related to renting a car, and requires the company to clearly and conspicuously disclose any fuel-related fee or requirement."

Health games and Game Technologies Grant

Health games and Game Technologies Grant: "The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is accepting applications for its Health Games Research grant program. Health Games Research: Advancing Effectiveness of Interactive Games for Health is a national program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) that funds research to enhance the quality and impact of interactive games that are used to improve health. The goal of the program is to advance the innovation, design and effectiveness of health games and game technologies so that they help people improve their health-related behaviors and, as a result, achieve significantly better health outcomes."

Lottery Check Scam: Court Halts Bogus Check Scam Targeting Lottery Winners; Money Transfers Used to Defraud Consumers

Lottery Check Scam: Court Halts Bogus Check Scam Targeting Lottery Winners; Money Transfers Used to Defraud Consumers: "A federal district court has halted a bogus lottery and prize-promotion scam that provides victims with counterfeit cashier’s checks and false promises of large cash prizes, pending trial."

Toy Recall: Brown Sues Toy Companies For Lead

Toy Recall: Brown Sues Toy Companies For Lead: "California Attorney General Edmund G. Brown Jr. and Los Angeles City Attorney Rockard J. Delgadillo today sued twenty companies for manufacturing or selling toys with 'unlawful quantities of lead"

Honda Hybrid Begins Phase-Out on January 1

Honda Hybrid Begins Phase-Out on January 1: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service announced today that American Honda Motor Company, Inc, has submitted quarterly reports indicating that its cumulative sales of qualified vehicles to retail dealers reached the 60,000-vehicle limit during the calendar quarter ending Sept. 30, 2007."

IRS Reminds Charities and Churches of Political Activity Ban

IRS Reminds Charities and Churches of Political Activity Ban: "WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded section 501(c)(3) organizations, including charities and churches that federal law prohibits them from becoming directly or indirectly involved in campaigns of political candidates."

Title Insurance Kickbakcs: HUD And State Of Florida Settle Case Against First American Title Co. In Alleged Kickback Scheme

Title Insurance Kickbakcs: HUD And State Of Florida Settle Case Against First American Title Co. In Alleged Kickback Scheme: "Under the terms of the settlement agreement announced today, First American will shut down 84 partnerships and pay $5 million to the U.S. government and the State of Florida."

12,682 Harmful Cosmetic Eye Product Seized ( eyelash)

12,682 Harmful Cosmetic Eye Product Seized ( eyelash): "For patients using the prescription drug, using the Age Intervention Eyelash in addition to the drug may increase the risk of optic nerve damage because the extra dose of bimatoprost may decrease the prescription drug's effectiveness. Damage to the optic nerve may lead to decreased vision and possibly blindness."

Update: Beware of Mortgage Scams

Update: Beware of Mortgage Scams: "Mortgage foreclosure fraud is on the rise, with thieves posing as lenders or housing counselors offering to 'help' people at risk of losing their homes to foreclosure. More than likely, the consumer pays high upfront fees for questionable services, and in the worst cases, thieves have tricked people into signing over ownership of their homes."

Timely Tips for Tax Season: FDIC Reports

Timely Tips for Tax Season: FDIC Reports: "Make good use of your refund. Consider paying down or paying off your loans and other bills, starting with the ones that charge the highest interest rates on unpaid balances. Start or add to an existing savings account. Or, fund a retirement account or college savings plan"

Attention Military Spouses: DOD & DOL Announce New Career Program for Military Spouses

Attention Military Spouses: DOD & DOL Announce New Career Program for Military Spouses: "The Departments of Defense and Labor today announced plans to jointly provide military spouses with opportunities to pursue portable careers in high-demand, high-growth occupations. This three-year Military Spouse Career Advancement Initiative, offered at 18 sites in eight states with large military populations, will enable military spouses to develop the skills needed to successfully start, navigate and advance their careers"

Holiday Shopping on the Web: Buyer Beware

Holiday Shopping on the Web: Buyer Beware: "FTC and National Cyber Security Alliance Offer Safe Shopping Practices"

Student 2008 Summer Internship Opportunities Now Available with The National Institute on Drug Abuse

Student 2008 Summer Internship Opportunities Now Available with The National Institute on Drug Abuse The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), announced that today kicks off the application period for summer research training opportunities at its Intramural Program (IRP) facility in Baltimore, Maryland. The internship program - now in its 21st year - is part of NIDA's commitment to introducing the science of addiction to some of the best and brightest young scientists in America.

Race-Based Insurance Policies - California Obtains Benefits for Victims

Race-Based Insurance Policies - California Obtains Benefits for Victims: "SACRAMENTO ― The California Department of Insurance (CDI), as part of a multi-state effort including Georgia, Florida, Ohio and Texas, has reached a settlement with Americo Life, Inc. to secure benefits for African-American consumers historically sold insurance policies using discriminatory practices, such as charging or collecting higher premiums for life insurance products based upon race; limiting the amount, extent or type of coverage available by race; and, assigning risk classifications based on race"

December 1st is World AIDS Day

December 1st is World AIDS Day: "December 1st is World AIDS Day. Established by the World Health Organization in 1988, World AIDS Day serves to focus global attention on the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Observance of this day provides an opportunity for governments, national AIDS programs, faith organizations, community organizations and individuals to demonstrate the importance of the fight against HIV/AIDS."

Undergraduate Scholarship: Up to $29,050 Available per Student for Studies and Internships

Undergraduate Scholarships: Up to $29,050 Available per Student for Studies and Internships: "NOAA is accepting applications for a scholarship program in honor of retired South Carolina Sen. Ernest F. Hollings, who promoted oceanic and atmospheric research throughout his career. This is the fourth year this scholarship is being made available to students interested in pursuing degrees in ocean and atmospheric sciences and education. "

California Wildfires Federal Assistance

California Wildfires: FEMA And State Disaster Assistance Programs Serve Those In NeedPASADENA, Calif. -- Federal and state assistance programs can help Californians as they start to rebuild their lives-changed drastically by the recent wildfires

8900 Bassettbaby Baby Cribs Recalled

Bassettbaby has 85 reports of bolts loosening, including one report of a 13 month-old children's hand becoming entrapped between the railings. 8900 Bassettbaby Baby Cribs Recalled

Entertainment Producer for Pacific Amphiteatre for the Orange County Fair & Exposition Center RFP Announcement

The Board of Directors of the 32nd District Agricultural Association in releasing this RFP intends to award a contract for the purpose of Entertainment Producing Services at the Pacific Amphiteatre for the Orange County Fair & Exposition Center from January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2009 with three (3) one-year options to renew. The agreement options are to be exercised independently and at the sole discretion of the District. Certification of satisfactory performance is required. Entertainment Producer for Pacific Amphiteatre for the Orange County Fair & Exposition Center RFP Announcement

Super Rich Food Antioxidants: New Data on Food Antioxidants Released

Super Rich Food Antioxidants: New Data on Food Antioxidants Released: "Measures of the antioxidant capacities of 277 selected foods were released today by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists. The new database provides easy access to antioxidant values for a wide variety of foods, many of which may be excellent sources of healthful compounds"

IRS Tax Break Helps Low- and Moderate-Income Workers Save for Retirement

IRS Tax Break Helps Low- and Moderate-Income Workers Save for Retirement: "WASHINGTON — Low- and moderate-income workers can take steps now to save for retirement and earn a special tax credit in 2007 and the years ahead, according to the Internal Revenue Service"

Tax relief for victims of Southern California Wildfires

The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) today announced that taxpayers impacted by the wildfires in any of the federally declared disaster areas will be given special tax relief. Tax relief for victims of Southern California Wildfires

2008 Uniform Bail and Penalty Schedules: Invitations to Comment

The Traffic Advisory Committee has proposed revisions to the Uniform Bail and Penalty Schedules (schedules) to become effective January 1, 2008. The proposed revisions bring the schedules into conformance with recent legislation. 2008 Uniform Bail and Penalty Schedules: Invitations to Comment

November is Court Adoption and Permanency Month

San Francisco - California courts will be hosting special events throughout November to educate the community about the continuing need for adoption and permanency of foster children and youth. Adoption Saturdays, now a yearly tradition, are held the Saturday before Thanksgiving. This event and others are efforts to encourage adoptions of foster children in their communities. November is Court Adoption and Permanency Month

Toyota and Lexus: 2008 Hybrids Certified As Tax Credit For Toyota and Lexus Comes to an End

WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service acknowledged the certification by Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc., that several of its Model Year 2008 vehicles qualify for the hybrid vehicle tax credit. Only vehicles purchased prior to Oct. 1, 2007, qualify for a credit.2008 Toyota and Lexus: 2008 Hybrids Certified As Tax Credit For Toyota and Lexus Comes to an End

IRS Announces Another Record-Breaking Number of Taxpayers Choose to Electronically File in 2007

IRS Announces Another Record-Breaking Number of Taxpayers Choose to Electronically File in 2007: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service this year received nearly 80 million tax returns through e-file, breaking the record set last year. The 2007 level is up about 9 percent from the 73 million returns filed for the same period last year. Of the 139.3 million returns filed in 2007, 79.98 million or about 57.4 percent were filed electronically."

IRS Announces Another Record-Breaking Number of Taxpayers Choose to Electronically File in 2007

IRS Announces Another Record-Breaking Number of Taxpayers Choose to Electronically File in 2007: "WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service this year received nearly 80 million tax returns through e-file, breaking the record set last year. The 2007 level is up about 9 percent from the 73 million returns filed for the same period last year. Of the 139.3 million returns filed in 2007, 79.98 million or about 57.4 percent were filed electronically."

Counterfeit Checks Issued in Mystery Shopping Scam

Counterfeit Checks Issued in Mystery Shopping Scam

Nationwide Debt Collector Will Pay $1.3 Million to Settle FTC Charges

Nationwide Debt Collector Will Pay $1.3 Million to Settle FTC Charges: "A Texas-based debt collection company will pay more than $1.3 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it misled, threatened, and harassed consumers in violation of federal law"

FTC Creates Consumer Hotline for Consumers Who Paid for Debt Reduction Services

FTC Creates Consumer Hotline for Consumers Who Paid for Debt Reduction Services: "The Federal Trade Commission has created a consumer hotline for consumers who purchased 'debt reduction services' from Edge Solutions, Money Cares, the Debt Settlement Company, the Debt Elimination Center, and Pay Help Inc. The hotline is in addition to a letter that was recently sent to the customers of Edge Solutions and the other companies, notifying them that the companies were shutdown"

Anatomy of a Cyber Investigation: The FBI Reports

Anatomy of a Cyber Investigation: The FBI Reports: "Ever wonder how we run a cyber investigation? Here's a good example…a potentially deadly threat that we ran to ground in short order with the help of our partners. "

Are you at risk for having diabetes?

Are you at risk for having diabetes?: "Fort Lee, Va. – Up to 6 million of the 21 million Americans who have diabetes do not know it. If you think you don’t have to worry about it, think again. November is National Diabetes Month and the rate of diabetes continues to increase. In the last 15 years the number of people in the United States with the disease has doubled every year. As many as one in five Americans over age 65 have it. Those under 65 are at risk, too, especially if they have any of the other risk factors that contribute to developing diabetes"

155,000 Fisher-Price Kitchen Toys Recalled

155,000 Fisher-Price Kitchen Toys Recalled: "There have been 48 reports of small parts separating from the toys, including two reports of children gagging on pieces, one report of a child who started choking on a piece and one report of a child who choked on a piece."

EPA Small Business and Grants Opportunity Conference - Nov 13 & 14

EPA Small Business and Grants Opportunity Conference - Nov 13 & 14: " EPA and Young Entrepreneurs of the Universe will co-sponsor the fourth annual Veterans' Small Business and Grants Opportunity Conference next week at EPA offices in downtown Chicago. The conference is free but participants must register in advance online or by e-mail."

Don't Be a Victim Twice Be Aware of Possible Frauds or Scams

Don't Be a Victim Twice Be Aware of Possible Frauds or Scams: "PASADENA, Calif. -- In the wake of the devastating California fires, those who have suffered damages and losses may be visited or called by someone claiming to be an official disaster aid worker or inspector. State and federal officials caution residents to check the identification of anyone wanting to enter their home or property and to watch out for scams and fraud that may surface."

Auction of 700 MHz Band Licenses; Revised Procedure for Auctions 73 and 76 (pdf)

Auction of 700 MHz Band Licenses; Revised Procedure for Auctions 73 and 76 (pdf)

Cardiovascular Disease Decreasing Among Adults with Diabetes

Cardiovascular Disease Decreasing Among Adults with Diabetes: "Two CDC studies say adults with diabetes report they are doing better at the vital job of monitoring their blood sugar, and fewer say they've developed cardiovascular disease."

IRS Warns of E-mail Scam Soliciting Donations to California Wildfire Victims

IRS Warns of E-mail Scam Soliciting Donations to California Wildfire Victims: "WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today warned taxpayers to be on the lookout for a new e-mail scam that appears to be a solicitation from the IRS and the U.S. government for charitable contributions to victims of the recent Southern California wildfires."

IRS Announces New Chinese, Korean, Russian and Vietnamese Tax Glossaries to Assist Taxpayers

IRS Announces New Chinese, Korean, Russian and Vietnamese Tax Glossaries to Assist Taxpayers: "WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today announced the availability of five new publications to help foreign-language communities understand federal tax forms and publications that are written in English. These new glossaries of tax terminology will help meet increased demand for tax-related resources in languages other than English."

True Man Sexual Energy, Energy Max Dietary Supplements Recalled

True Man Sexual Energy, Energy Max Dietary Supplements Recalled: "The U.S. Food and Drug Administration yesterday requested a recall of True Man Sexual Energy Nutrient Capsules and Energy Max Energy Supplement Men's Formula Capsules, illegal drug products that contain potentially harmful, undeclared ingredients. "

Alzheimer's Disease to be Highlighted on Stamp Next Year

Alzheimer's Disease to be Highlighted on Stamp Next Year: "WASHINGTON, DC — The Postal Service will issue a stamp next year to help raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease as part of its Social Awareness stamp series, Postmaster General John Potter announced today, on the first day of both National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month."

Consumer Alert: FCIC Warns About Overpaying For Certified Deeds

Consumer Alert: FCIC Warns About Overpaying For Certified Deeds: "Your friends at the Federal Citizen Information Center (FCIC) want to warn you about solicitation letters that are being sent out nationwide by a private company regarding buying certified copies of deeds"

OSHA Adds New Modules Added to Ergonomics Solutions for Electrical Contractors eTool

OSHA Adds New Modules Added to Ergonomics Solutions for Electrical Contractors eTool: "Employers and employees in the electrical contracting industry will benefit from the launch of two new modules as part of OSHA’s interactive Web-based "

Federal Reserve Board announces amendments to five regulations to clarify requirements for providing consumer disclosures in electronic form

Federal Reserve Board announces amendments to five regulations to clarify requirements for providing consumer disclosures in electronic form: "The Federal Reserve Board on Thursday announced the adoption of amendments to five consumer financial services and fair lending regulations (Regulations B, E, M, Z, and DD) to clarify the requirements for providing consumer disclosures in electronic form"

Free Breathing Masks Available to S. Californians

PASADENA, Calif. -- The Governor's Office of Emergency Services today announced the availability of free breathing masks for Southern Californians to use while cleaning up ash around their home or business. The masks, donated by Cardinal Health and delivered free of charge by UPS, will be available at any of the nine local assistance centers that were announced by Governor Schwarzenegger last week. Free Breathing Masks Available to S. Californians

Identity Theft: Agencies Issue Final Rules on Identity Theft Red Flags

The final rules require each financial institution and creditor that holds any consumer account, or other account for which there is a reasonably foreseeable risk of identity theft, to develop and implement an Identity Theft Prevention Program (Program) for combating identity theft in connection with new and existing accounts. The Program must include reasonable policies and procedures for detecting, preventing, and mitigating identity theft and enable a financial institution or creditor to...... Identity Theft: Agencies Issue Final Rules on Identity Theft Red Flags

Don't Disqualify Yourself From Disaster Assistance

Don't Disqualify Yourself From Disaster Assistance: "WACO, Texas -- Officials from the Governor's Division of Emergency Management (GDEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urge Texans affected by Tropical Storm Erin during August 14-20 to make sure they apply for all the federal assistance for which they may be eligible. "

IRS Update: IRS Grants Tax Relief for Southern California Wildfire Victims

IRS Update: IRS Grants Tax Relief for Southern California Wildfire Victims: "WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service is extending tax return filing and payment deadlines for victims of the severe Southern California wildfires."

HUD Announces Six Settlement Agreements With Builders Involved In Captive Title Reinsurance Arrangements

HUD Announces Six Settlement Agreements With Builders Involved In Captive Title Reinsurance Arrangements: "The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development today announced separate settlement agreements with six major homebuilders that engaged in complex business arrangements involving captive title reinsurance. The agreements announced today stem from alleged violations of The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) and total nearly $1.4 million."

Virsus Alert: Don't Open Bogus Email that Claims to Come From the FTC

Virsus Alert: Don't Open Bogus Email that Claims to Come From the FTC: "A bogus email is circulating that says it is from the Federal Trade Commission, referencing a “complaint” filed with the FTC against the email’s recipient. The email includes links and an attachment that download a virus. As with any suspicious email, the FTC warns recipients not to click on links within the email and not to open any attachments. "

FTC Releases Consumer Fraud Survey: 30.2 Million Americans Fell Victim to Fraud

FTC Releases Consumer Fraud Survey: 30.2 Million Americans Fell Victim to Fraud: "30.2 Million Americans - 13.5 Percent of U.S. Adults - Fell Victim to Fraud "