Columbia State Historic Park New Docent Training Course - Park Volunteers Needed

Docents are trained volunteers who assist in the educational and interpretive programs at Columbia State Historic Park by conducting school programs, staffing the museum, and participating in Special Events such as Diggins and Lamplight.     

Read More...

St. Patricks Day 2008: Irish Facts & Statistics

Originally a religious holiday to honor St. Patrick, who introduced Christianity to Ireland in the fifth century, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved into a celebration for all things Irish. The world’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade occurred on March 17, 1762, in New York City, featuring Irish soldiers serving in the English military. President Truman attended the parade in 1948, a proud moment for the many Irish whose ancestors had to fight stereotypes and prejudice to find acceptance in America. Congress proclaimed March as Irish-American Heritage Month in 1995, and the president issues a proclamation each year.

Read More...

Iron Absorption: Common Plant Compound Improves Iron Absorption

Swine research funded in part by the Agricultural Research Service ( ARS ) indicates that inulin-a complex carbohydrate found in many plants worldwide - may help people absorb more iron from fruits, vegetables and grains. This finding by ARS plant physiologist Ross Welch and his colleagues could provide key support in the worldwide fight against iron deficiency.

Read More...

OSHA Announces New OTI Education Centers

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) today announced 8 new OSHA Training Institute (OTI) Education Centers and two renewals. Current OTI Education Centers offer training courses on OSHA standards and occupational safety and health issues. The additional OTI Education Centers, made up of non-profit organizations, will further increase OSHA’s reach throughout the country to provide safety and health training.


Read More...

New DVDs to Help Educate Older Drivers and Their Families

It's very difficult to tell someone - anyone - that their driving isn't what it used to be. These videos will offer advice on how to approach the subject - especially with a parent - and offer tips to those drivers whose abilities may have been better in the past.

Read More...

FTC: Start the New Year Right by Saying "We Don't Serve Teens"

A new year is arriving, and with it a familiar problem - New Year’s Eve is often an occasion for teens to obtain access to alcohol, typically through family members or parents of friends. Teens who drink risk their safety and health, and the adults who provide the alcohol also risk heavy fines and possibly jail time.

Read More...

Top Ten 2007 Coast Guard Rescue Videos Released

The U. S. Coast Guard released a video compilation of its most dramatic rescues of 2007.  These harrowing rescues confirm the critical lifesaving role performed by the Coast Guard in service to our nation.  Since 1790, the Coast Guard has saved more than one million lives, and it continues to execute this mission with unwavering dedication in often extreme conditions and locations.


Read More...

OSHA Cites Construction Contractors Combined $324,000 following Asbestos Exposure

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Balfour Beatty Construction LLC, a general construction contractor based in the U.K., and C.F. Jordan LP, a general and utility construction contractor based in El Paso, Texas, with 12 safety violations for asbestos exposure at a military housing construction site at the federal White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.


Read More...

Redesigned $5 Bill to Enter Circulation March 13 Vending Machines Prepare to Accept New $5 Bill

The newly designed $5 bill  will enter circulation on March 13, 2008, the Federal Reserve Board and U.S. Treasury announced today. This alerts businesses that manufacture and use vending and self-checkout machines that they have 90 days to adapt their machines to accept the new bill.

Read More...

Study Shows Vitamin A Suppresses Type 1 Diabetes in Animal Study

Pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes and many other holiday favorites are rich in vitamin A, a nutrient essential for good health. Now a study by Agricultural Research Service ( ARS ) nutrition scientists has shown, for the first time, that high levels of vitamin A can suppress development of type 1 diabetes in laboratory mice prone to that disease.

Read More...

California Settles Annuity Sales Scam

Attorney General Edmund G. Brown Jr. and Insurance Commission Steve Poizner today announced a $7.2 million settlement with American Investors Life Insurance Company, Family First Insurance Services, and Family First Advanced Estate Planning, resolving allegations that the companies sold thousands of annuities with exorbitant fees to vulnerable senior citizens

Read More...

Gap Outlet Recalls Boys' Jackets; Drawstring at Waist Poses Entrapment Hazard

The jackets are hooded, zip in front, and have a drawstring at the waist. They were sold in navy and gray in multiple children’s sizes. "Gap Outlet" is printed on a label at the neck. Style number 513573 is printed on a white label sewn behind the size and product care label near the neckline.

Read More...

Digital TV Questions and Answers

Some consumers are asking why they need to switch. First, all-digital broadcasting will give needed communications channels to police, fire and emergency rescue personnel. It will also allow for new wireless services for consumers. In addition, since digital is more efficient than analog, it allows stations to broadcast several programs at the same time, instead of just one program with analog.

Read More...

Ford Motor Co. Settles Class Racial Bias Lawsuit

CINCINNATI â€" Ford Motor Co., along with two related companies and a national union, will pay $1.6 million and provide other remedial relief to a class of nearly 700 African Americans to settle a major race discrimination lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced today.

Read More...

Assassination of Benazir Bhutto

On behalf of the United States, I want to express our deepest sympathy on the tragic death of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. We extend our sincere condolences to the Bhutto family and to the families of others who were killed and wounded in the attack. We condemn in the strongest terms possible this cowardly and murderous attack.

Read More...

IRS Update: 2008 Excise Taxes on Air Transportation

WASHINGTON -- Today the Internal Revenue Service announced the 2008 inflation adjustments to the excise taxes on air transportation. Excise taxes apply to the domestic segments of taxable air transportation and to the use of international air facilities. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008, signed into law on Dec. 26, 2007, extends these excise taxes to air transportation that begins or is paid for no later than Feb. 29, 2008.

Read More...

Computer Software Industry Prevailing Wage: Effective January 1, 2008

As it relates to Hourly Rate for Employees in the Computer Software Industry: Existing law exempts a professional employee in the computer software field from the overtime compensation requirement if the employee is primarily engaged in work that is intellectual or creative, the employee's hourly rate of pay is not less than $41, and the employee meets other requirements. This bill decreases the hourly rate of pay requirement for this exemption to not less than $36.

Read More...

ITC Investigates Certain Noise Cancelling Headphones

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has voted to institute an investigation of certain noise cancelling headphones. The products at issue in this investigation are headphones that have features that reduce ambient noise, which are most often used to improve the experience of listening to an audio source. The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Bose Corporation of Framingham, MA, on November 29, 2007.

Read More...

Shopping Channel HSN Agrees to Pay $875,000 Civil Penalty

CPSC alleged that from September 2001 through about October 2004, HSN received at least 25 reports from consumers indicating that the pressure cookers contained a defect that could create a substantial product hazard or that the pressure cookers created an unreasonable risk of serious injury. CPSC alleged that HSN failed to immediately report this information as required by federal law. HSN LP finally reported information to CPSC in February 2005. In June and October 2005, these pressure cookers were the subject of a recall .

Read More...

Minivan bumper test results: Nissan Quest is by far the worst performer

None of 6 minivans, all 2008 models, is designed to resist vehicle damage in many low-speed collisions. The front and rear bumper systems on these minivans allowed $5,000 or more damage in a series of 4 crash tests conducted at 3 and 6 mph. The Nissan Quest was the worst, sustaining damage that cost more than $8,000 to repair.

Read More...

Adobe Updates for Multiple Vulnerabilities

Adobe Flash is affected by multiple vulnerabilities. Adobe has released Security Update APSB07-20 to address these vulnerabilities, the most serious of which may allow a remote attacker to take control of your computer.

Read More...

Public Relations Contract Opportunity for the California Office of Homeland Security

California Volunteers received federal grant funds through the California Office of Homeland Security to implement a disaster readiness initiative. CV has elected to target $250,000 of these funds to construct a tool kit that can be used by the various trained disaster volunteer organizations, i.e. Community Emergency Response Teams, Medical Reserve Corps, Fire Corps and others, to identify themselves as part of the state Disaster Volunteer Corps.

Read More...

Canned Green Beans recalled due to Clostridium botulinum Contamination

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers about a potential Clostridium botulinum  (C. botulinum) contamination of canned cut green beans manufactured by New Era Canning Company, New Era, Mich., and labeled as "GFS Fancy Blue Lake Cut Green Beans." C. botulinum is the bacterium that causes botulism.

Read More...

Having Mortgage Difficulties? Uncle Sam Offers Help.

Do your mortgage payments have you stressed out? If you’re like some people who bought or refinanced homes in the last few years, you may be facing a major increase in your mortgage’s interest rate and monthly payments. Here are some tips to help you manage your payments and maintain ownership of your home.


Read More...

Federal Trade Commission Closes Google/DoubleClick Investigation

The Federal Trade Commission today announced that it will not seek to block Google Inc.'s proposed $3.1 billion acquisition of Internet advertising server DoubleClick Inc. In a 4-1 vote to close its eight-month investigation of the transaction, the Commission wrote in its majority statement that "after carefully reviewing the evidence, we have concluded that Google’s proposed acquisition of DoubleClick is unlikely to substantially lessen competition."

Read More...

Summer Interships Offered by the FCC

The Federal Communications Commission offers legal and non-legal internship opportunities throughout the year. Internships provide opportunities for interested students to increase their knowledge of the issues and technologies that are shaping the telecommunications market, while at the same time providing invaluable support to the Commission. The FCC is always looking for bright and motivated students who want to participate in one of our many programs and gain valuable experience with a federal agency.

Read More...

The Daytona 500: The Census Bureau Reports

The 50th running of the Daytona 500 on Feb. 17 is being billed as the "most anticipated event in racing history." NASCAR’s 200-lap, 500-mile stock-car race that began in 1959 at Daytona International Speedway has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon. A global TV audience of more than 50 million is expected to watch, with the winner pocketing about $1.5 million. To commemorate this automotive milestone, the Census Bureau has compiled a collection of facts and figures relating to our nation, Florida and Daytona Beach during the past 50 years

Read More...

Daily Death Toll from Drunk Driving Crashes Highest During Holiday Season, New Data Shows

Daily Death Toll from Drunk Driving Crashes Highest During Holiday Season, New Data Shows

Read More...

Domestic Partnership: Tax Information for Registered Domestic Partners (RDPs) is now an official publication.

Domestic Partnership: Tax Information for Registered Domestic Partners (RDPs) is now an official publication.

Read More...

IRS Update: IRS Releases Final 2008 Form 990 for Tax-Exempt Organizations, Adjusts Filing Threshold to Provide Transition Relief

IRS Update: IRS Releases Final 2008 Form 990 for Tax-Exempt Organizations, Adjusts Filing Threshold to Provide Transition Relief

Read More...

SUMMER INTERSHIPS OFFERED BY THE FCC

The Federal Communications Commission offers legal and non-legal
internship opportunities throughout the year. Internships provide
opportunities for interested students to increase their knowledge of
the issues and technologies that are shaping the telecommunications
market, while at the same time providing invaluable support to the
Commission. The FCC is always looking for bright and motivated
students who want to participate in one of our many programs and gain
valuable experience with a federal agency.

Title : SUMMER INTERSHIPS OFFERED BY THE FCC
WebLink : http://communitydispatch.com/Job_Search_90/Summer_Interships.shtml

Saudia Arabia Travel Warning Alert Issued to U.S. Citizens

The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to consider carefully the risks of traveling to Saudi Arabia.  The security threat level remains high due to the continued presence of terrorist groups, some affiliated with al Qaida, who may target Western interests, housing compounds, and other facilities where Westerners congregate.  These terrorist groups may also target Saudi Government facilities and economic/commercial targets within the Kingdom.

SAUDIA ARABIA TRAVEL WARNING ALERT ISSUED TO U.S. CITIZENS

The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to consider carefully the
risks of traveling to Saudi Arabia. The security threat level remains
high due to the continued presence of terrorist groups, some
affiliated with al Qaida, who may target Western interests, housing
compounds, and other facilities where Westerners congregate. These
terrorist groups may also target Saudi Government facilities and
economic/commercial targets within the Kingdom.

WebLink : http://communitydispatch.com/Travel_Warnings_54/Travel_Warning.shtml

Domestic Partnership: Tax Information for Registered Domestic Partners (RDPs) is now an official publication.

Tax Information for Registered Domestic Partners (RDPs) is now an official publication.

346,000 Cordless Drills Recalled

DEWALT has received 11 reports of trigger switches overheating. No injuries or property damage have been reported.

13,000 Christmas Candle Sets recalled

The snowman candle could tip over and the exterior coating on both candles can ignite, posing a fire hazard

Misclassified Workers to File New Social Security Tax Form

The Internal Revenue Service has developed a new form for employees who have been misclassified as independent contractors by an employer.

Division of Workers" Compensation reminds Community of New 2008 laws

The Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) is reminding injured workers, employers, claims administrators, attorneys and others of three changes to workers' compensation law that take effect Jan. 1, 2008

346,000 Cordless Drills Recalled

346,000 Cordless Drills Recalled: "DEWALT has received 11 reports of trigger switches overheating. No injuries or property damage have been reported"

IRS Update: IRS Releases Final 2008 Form 990 for Tax-Exempt Organizations, Adjusts Filing Threshold to Provide Transition Relief

IRS Update: IRS Releases Final 2008 Form 990 for Tax-Exempt Organizations, Adjusts Filing Threshold to Provide Transition Relief: "The IRS issued an updated version of Form 990, the return that charities and other tax-exempt organizations are required to file annually, and provided transition relief so that small exempt organizations will have time to adjust to the new form."

Ford Motor Co. Settles Class Racial Bias Lawsuit

Ford Motor Co. Settles Class Racial Bias Lawsuit: "Ford Motor Co., along with two related companies and a national union, will pay $1.6 million and provide other remedial relief to a class of nearly 700 African Americans to settle a major race discrimination lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced today"

Minivan bumper test results: Nissan Quest is by far the worst performer

Minivan bumper test results: Nissan Quest is by far the worst performer: "None of 6 minivans, all 2008 models, is designed to resist vehicle damage in many low-speed collisions. The front and rear bumper systems on these minivans allowed $5,000 or more damage in a series of 4 crash tests conducted at 3 and 6 mph. The Nissan Quest was the worst, sustaining damage that cost more than $8,000 to repair. These are the results of recent crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to assess and compare how well vehicle bumper systems resist damage in the kinds of low-speed collisions that frequently occur in commuter traffic and parking lots."

Federal Trade Commission Closes Google/DoubleClick Investigation

Federal Trade Commission Closes Google/DoubleClick Investigation: "The Federal Trade Commission today announced that it will not seek to block Google Inc.’s proposed $3.1 billion acquisition of Internet advertising server DoubleClick Inc. In a 4-1 vote to close its eight-month investigation of the transaction, the Commission wrote in its majority statement that “after carefully reviewing the evidence, we have concluded that Google’s proposed acquisition of DoubleClick is unlikely to substantially lessen competition.”"

Domestic Partnership: Tax Information for Registered Domestic Partners (RDPs) is now an official publication.

Domestic Partnership: Tax Information for Registered Domestic Partners (RDPs) is now an official publication.: "Tax Information for Registered Domestic Partners (RDPs) is now an official publication"

Outpatient Sex Offender Treatment, Region I Parole Contract Announcement

Outpatient Sex Offender Treatment, Region I Parole Contract Announcement: "Contractor shall provide Outpatient Sex Offender Treatment services for parolees under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Services must be provided for parolees located within the Region I Parole area"

Career Guide to Industries (CGI), 2008-09 Edition

Career Guide to Industries (CGI), 2008-09 Edition

ATF Publishes List of 238 Explosive Materials Subject To Law

ATF Publishes List of 238 Explosive Materials Subject To Law: "The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) published a notice in the Federal Register today containing the list of 238 explosive materials that are subject to federal law and implementing regulations."

How to Prepare for Flash Floods and Debris Flows After Wildfires

How to Prepare for Flash Floods and Debris Flows After Wildfires: "Menlo Park, Calif. — Once the smoke clears from a wildfire, the danger is not over. Other hazards, such as flash floods and debris flows, now become the concern. Watch a video of the Christmas Day, 2003, debris flow in Devore, Calif., taken by local citizen Bishop Howard Davis by visiting"

Daily Death Toll from Drunk Driving Crashes Highest During Holiday Season, New Data Shows

Daily Death Toll from Drunk Driving Crashes Highest During Holiday Season, New Data Shows: "New federal traffic safety data shows that the daily death toll from drunk driving crashes during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday periods is significantly more than for the rest of the year, announced U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters. “If you’ve had too much holiday spirit you’d better find a safe and sober ride. Driving while drunk is not worth the risk,” said Secretary Peters, noting that driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher is illegal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia"

Heart Attack Symptoms in Women

Heart Attack Symptoms in Women: "Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death among U.S. women. It affects 1 in 10 women over the age of 18. In light of the recent uncertainty about heart attack symptoms in women, a team led by Dr. John G. Canto of the Watson Clinic in Lakeland, Florida, set out to gather and analyze the available evidence. Their review was done in collaboration with NIH’s National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI)."

FEC Introduces Online Map to Track U.S. Senate and House Campaign Finances

FEC Introduces Online Map to Track U.S. Senate and House Campaign Finances: "The Federal Election Commission (FEC) now has a new, interactive map on its web site that displays financial activity of 2008 Congressional candidates. With a simple click of the mouse, a user can find lists of candidates and money raised and spent on a state-by-state basis. The map provides links to dynamic overviews of individual campaigns, comparisons among contenders for different offices, and detailed information about contributions and disbursements for specific candidates, along with state-by-state overviews of financial activity thus far in the 2008 campaign."

Tis the Season...For Holiday Place Names, That Is!

Tis the Season...For Holiday Place Names, That Is!: "Are national holidays a time or a place? For many, the holidays represent family gatherings with delicious edibles, but for people who live in Christmas, Ariz., Mistletoe, Ky., Candle, Alaska, or Santa Claus, Ind., it is also a place called home. This year, learn about holiday place names by using the USGS Geographic Names Information System (GNIS). It is a fun and exciting research tool containing over two million place names in the United States."

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