Weekly Roundup - Living On Nothing Edition [Survival Today

Did you hear about the guy that lives on nothing? No seriously, he lives on zero dollars a day. Meet Daniel Suelo, who lives in a cave outside Moab, Utah. Suelo has no mortgage, no car payment, no debt of any kind. He also has no home, no car, no television, and absolutely no “creature comforts.” But he does have a lot of creatures, as in the mice and bugs that scurry about the cave floor he’s called home for the last three years.

To us, Suelo probably sounds a little extreme. Actually, he probably sounds very extreme. After all, I suspect most of you reading this are doing so under the protection of some sort of man-made shelter, and with some amount of money on your person, and probably a few needs for money, too. And who doesn’t need money unless they have completely unplugged from the grid? Still, it’s an amusing story about a guy who rejects all forms of consumerism as we know it.

How to Brew Your Own Beer and Maybe Save Some Money. A fantastic introduction to home brewing, something I’ve never done myself, but always been interested in trying. (@Generation X Finance)

Contentment: A Great Financial Principle. If I had to name one required emotion for living a frugal lifestyle it would be contentment. Once you are content with your belongings and your lot in life you can ignore forces attempting to separate you from your money. (@Personal Finance by the Book)

Use Energy Star Appliances to Save On Utility Costs. I enjoyed this post because it included actual numbers, and actual total savings, from someone who upgraded to new, energy star appliances. (@The Digerati Life)

Over-Saving for Retirement? Is it possible to “over-save” for retirement? Yes, I think so. At some point I like the idea of putting some money aside in taxable investments outside of retirement funds, to be accessed prior to traditional retirement age. (@The Simple Dollar)

40 Things to Teach My Kids Before They Leave Home. A great list of both practical and philosophical lessons to teach your kids before they reach the age where they know everything. I think that now happens around 13 years-old. (@My Supercharged Life)

Index Fund Investing Overview. If you are looking for a place to invest with high diversification and relatively low fees (for broader index funds with low turnover), index funds are a great place to start. (@Money Smart Life)

5 Reasons To Line Dry Your Laundry. My wife and I may soon be installing a clothesline in our backyard. In many neighborhoods they are frowned upon - one of the reasons I don’t like living in a neighborhood. I digress. One of our neighbors recently put up a clothesline, and we might just follow his lead. (@Simple Mom)

* 4 Quick Tips for Getting Out of a Rut * Young and Cash Rich * Embracing Simple Style * First Trading Experience With OptionsHouse * The Exponential Power of Delayed Consumption * How Much Emergency Fund is Enough? * 50 Questions that Will Free Your Mind * Save Money On Car Insurance

Pharmaceutical maker Novartis AG says a U.S. clinical study suggests that half a
dose of its swine flu vaccine may be sufficient to protect people from the
virus and could allow many more to be immunized with current supplies.

MORE DETAILS:
http://www.fox5vegas.com/tu/5Lmo17PgP.html

Vegas Job Fair Runs Until 3 P.M.
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http://www.fox5vegas.com/tu/5Lmo17UfC.html

US Casino Revenue Slips 5.5 Percent In 3rd Qtr
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http://www.fox5vegas.com/tu/5Lmo17VuV.html

Ship With 100 Tourists Stuck In Antarctic Ice

A Russian icebreaker carrying more than 100 tourists, scientists and journalists on a cruise around Antarctica was struggling to free itself from sea ice about 5 miles from clear water on Tuesday, a shipping company said. \(Nov. 17\)

MORE DETAILS:
http://www.fox5vegas.com/tu/5Lmo181a1.html

Raw Video: Policeman Vs. Kitty

Watch as a patient police officer in Texas puts up with a friendly black cat clinging to him during a recent traffic stop. The ways of the affectionate feline were captured by the patrol car’s dashcam. \(Nov. 17\)

MORE DETAILS:
http://www.fox5vegas.com/tu/5Lmo182Q8.html

Pharmaceuticals See Big Money In Vaccines

Consumers clamoring for swine flu vaccine have given pharmaceutical powerhouses
one more reason to jump into the once-anemic vaccine business.

MORE DETAILS:
http://www.fox5vegas.com/tu/5Lmo1848l.html

Cashing In On Flu Fears?

A Las Vegas car wash is offering a “flu free” treatment. But is it really
necessary to protect yourself from H1N1?
MORE DETAILS:
http://www.fox5vegas.com/tu/5Lmo185JV.html

Audience: Consumers

[Posted 11/17/2009] IDS Sports and FDA notified consumers that five of the IDS’s dietary supplement products (Bromodrol, Dual Action Grow Tabs, Grow Tabs, Mass Tabs, and Ripped Tabs TR) contain the following undeclared substances, which FDA considers to be steroids: “Madol,” “Turinabol,” “Superdrol,” and/or “Androstenedione.”

Acute liver injury is known to be a possible harmful effect of using steroid-containing products. In addition, steroids may cause other serious long-term adverse health consequences in men, women, and children. These include shrinkage of the testes and male infertility, masculinization of women, breast enlargement in males, short stature in children, a higher predilection to misuse other drugs and alcohol, adverse effects on blood lipid levels, and increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and death.

The recalled products were distributed in either black boxes containing blister packs of 60 capsules or white bottles with black labels containing 30 or 60 capsules.

Customers who have any of the products in their possession should stop using them immediately and contact their physician if they have experienced any problems that may be related to using the products. Any adverse events that may be related to use should be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program online [at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm], by phone 1-800-332-1088, or by returning the postage-paid FDA form 3500 [which may be downloaded from the MedWatch “Download Forms” page] by mail [to address on the pre-addressed form] or fax [1-800-FDA-0178].

Read the MedWatch safety summary, including a link to the Press Release, at:

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm190925.htm

DO YOU OR A LOVED ONE HAVE DIABETES?

You might be at higher risk for complication from H1N1 & seasonal flu

KNOW WHAT TO DO ABOUT THE FLU

Join experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for a special

Flu.gov webcast to get more information on how flu can affect people with diabetes

Ask our experts your questions and share your concerns

so you can be prepared

DETAILS: Join us WEDNESDAY November 18, 2009 @ 1 PM (EST) to get more information on how flu can affect people with diabetes. Experts will answer your questions specific to H1N1 and diabetes. This show will be webcast live on www.flu.gov/live.

WHAT: Know What to Do about the Flu Webcast

WHO: Dr. Beth Bell, M.D., M.P.H., Associate Director for Science, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

Ann Albright, PhD, RD, Director, Division of Diabetes Translation, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

WHEN: WEDNESDAY, November 18, 2009 @ 1 PM (EST)

WHERE: Live on www.flu.gov/live

Participate in the webcast by sending questions to hhsstudio@hhs.gov.

WHERE CAN I FIND MORE INFORMATION ON H1N1 AND THE H1N1 VACCINE MY COMMUNITY?

Flu.gov is your one-stop website for all the latest information about the flu and the new H1N1 flu virus from the CDC and other top scientists and doctors across the federal government. Use our www.flu.gov marketing tools to spread the word about flu.gov to your friends and families and help them get the facts, too.

For more information on H1N1 situation, please visit www.Flu.gov

NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 17, 2009
Release #10-039

CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

“Town Hall on Toy Safety”: CPSC Talks to Parents About New Rules Aimed at Making Toys Safer

NEW YORK, N.Y. - At a Town Hall meeting held in New York City, CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum was joined by parents and consumers to talk toy safety. The discussion centered around new federal safety rules that are in place for toys that will give American consumers greater confidence when they go shopping this holiday season. Chairman Tenenbaum informed the audience that starting this year:

* federal limits for lead in paint on children’s toys dropped to 90 parts per million, which is among the lowest in the world;

* toys for children 12 and younger must now be tested and certified that they meet the new lead in paint limits;

* children’s toys cannot be made or sold with more than 300 parts per million of total lead;

* children’s toys cannot be made or sold with more than 0.1% of six prohibited phthalates;

* and most children’s toys now fall under mandatory standards, instead of voluntary ones.

“It is important to make safety a priority when making your holiday toy purchases this season,” said Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. “CPSC has worked hard this year to give parents and grandparents greater confidence that the toys they seek to purchase have enhanced safety protections for children.”

So far in calendar year 2009, CPSC has had 38 toy recalls, which is down from 162 in 2008 and 148 in 2007. Toy recalls involving lead paint are also down. This year there has been 14 recalls involving lead, down from 63 in 2007 and 85 in 2008. CPSC attributes this decline to increased enforcement at the ports, cooperation with other nations, consumer awareness and education and compliance by the industry with new federal safety rules.

For 2008, the Commission has reports of 19 toy-related deaths and about 172,700 hospital emergency room treated toy-related injuries (pdf) to children under 15. Almost half of these injuries, approximately 82,300 were to children younger than 5 years of age. Most of the deaths were associated with drowning, motor vehicle involvement, or airway obstruction from a small toy or small part of a toy.

Here are some safety steps consumers can take while shopping this holiday season:

* Scooters and other Riding Toys - Riding toys, skateboards and in-line skates go fast and falls could be deadly. Helmets and safety gear should be worn at all times and be sized to fit.

* Small Balls and other Toys with Small Parts - For children younger than age three, avoid toys with small parts, which can cause choking.

* Balloons - Children can choke or suffocate on un-inflated or broken balloons. Keep un-inflated balloons away from children younger than eight years old. Discard broken balloons at once.

* Magnets - For children under age six, avoid building or play sets with small magnets. If magnets or pieces with magnets are swallowed, serious injuries and/or death can occur.

Once the gifts are open:

* Immediately discard plastic wrappings or other packaging on toys before they become dangerous play things.

* Keep toys appropriate for older children away from younger siblings.

* Charging batteries should be supervised by adults. Chargers and adapters can pose thermal burn hazards to young children. Pay attention to instructions and warnings on battery chargers. Some chargers lack any device to prevent overcharging.

Along with educating the public, CPSC is equally committed to working with foreign and domestic toy manufacturers, importers, and retailers to help them understand and comply with these new requirements, while keeping their doors open and their businesses competitive.

To see this release on CPSC’s web site, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10039.html

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm191001.htm

RockHard Laboratories Issues a Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Specific Lots of RockHard Weekend Marketed as Dietary Supplement

Contact:
RockHard Laboratories,
800-562-0543
customerservice@rockhardweekend.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 9, 2009 - Atlanta, GA – RockHard Laboratories announced today that it is conducting a voluntary nationwide recall of the company’s dietary supplement sold under the name RockHard Weekend (RHW) specific to the following Lot Numbers:

Blister Pack: T12 705 08 (exp: 10/11) / T12 705 09 (exp: 3/12, 8/12)
3ct Bottle: R417 0509 (exp: 09/12)
8ct Bottle: T237-0509 (exp: 06/12)

RockHard Laboratories is conducting a voluntary recall after being informed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that voluntary lab analysis found that RHW, specific to the above lot numbers, contains sulfoaildenfil, an analogue of Sildenfil, an FDA-approved drug used as treatment for male Erectile Dysfunction (ED) making RockHard Weekend an unapproved drug. The active drug ingredient is not listed on the product label.

The undeclared ingredient may pose a threat to consumers because the analogue may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs (such as nitroglycerin) and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. Consumers with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease often take nitrates. ED is a common problem in men with these conditions, and consumers may seek these types of products to enhance sexual performance.

RockHard Laboratories takes the upmost pride in its quality control by outsourcing production to a certified, independent lab. It is through this outside lab that RockHard Laboratories maintains the highest quality standards possible and can quickly take action. RockHard Laboratories has identified that one of the lab’s raw ingredients, sourced from China, was being unknowingly tainted with sulfoaildenfil. RockHard Laboratories takes this recall very seriously and recommits to the diligent work required in ensuring its products remain free of any potentially unapproved chemicals.

RHW is sold nationwide in single blisters, 3-count and 8-count bottles. RockHard Laboratories advises any customers in possession of RHW to return any unused product for a full refund to the company directly. Customers can call 1.800.562.0543 for instructions on the return and refund process.

RockHard Laboratories is committed to improving its product and avoiding future recall issues by sourcing higher quality raw ingredients and expanding testing. RockHard Laboratories promises its customer the highest possible quality and welcomes the recall process as further evidence of our commitment to our brand, products and consumers.

Any adverse events that may be related to the use of this product should be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm], by returning the postage-paid FDA form 3500 [which may be downloaded from www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm] by mail [to MedWatch, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787] or fax [1-800-FDA-0178].

RSS Feed for FDA Recalls Information [what’s this?]

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Page Last Updated: 11/17/2009

http://www.fbi.gov/pressrel/pressrel09/taskforce_111709.htm

Press Release

U.S. Department of Justice
For Immediate Release
November 17, 2009

PAO
(202) 514-2007
TDD (202) 514-1888
www.usdoj.gov

President Obama Establishes Interagency Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force

WASHINGTON—Attorney General Eric Holder, Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan, and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairwoman Mary Schapiro today announced that President Barack Obama has established by Executive Order an interagency Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force to strengthen efforts to combat financial crime. The Department of Justice will lead the task force and the Department of Treasury, HUD, and the SEC will serve on the steering committee. The task force’s leadership, along with representatives from a broad range of federal agencies, regulatory authorities and inspectors general, will work with state and local partners to investigate and prosecute significant financial crimes, ensure just and effective punishment for those who perpetrate financial crimes, address discrimination in the lending and financial markets and recover proceeds for victims.

The task force, which replaces the Corporate Fraud Task Force established in 2002, will build upon efforts already underway to combat mortgage, securities and corporate fraud by increasing coordination and fully utilizing the resources and expertise of the government’s law enforcement and regulatory apparatus. The attorney general will convene the first meeting of the Task Force in the next 30 days.

“This task force’s mission is not just to hold accountable those who helped bring about the last financial meltdown, but to prevent another meltdown from happening,” Attorney General Eric Holder said. “We will be relentless in our investigation of corporate and financial wrongdoing, and will not hesitate to bring charges, where appropriate, for criminal misconduct on the part of businesses and business executives.”

“Through the Financial Fraud Task Force, we are making clear that the Obama Administration is going to act aggressively and proactively in a coordinated effort to combat financial fraud,” said Treasury Secretary Geithner. “It’s not enough to prosecute fraud only after it’s become widespread. We can’t wait for problems to peak before we respond. We’re seeking comprehensive financial reform to create a more stable, safer financial system and stepping up our enforcement strategy. Doing so will help to stop emerging trends in financial fraud before they’re able to cause extensive, system-wide damage to our economy.”

“To give American families the protection and peace-of-mind they need, it’s clear the federal response must be as interconnected and multi-dimensional as the challenges we face,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. “No one agency is going to be able to stop financial fraud. This Task force will build upon many of the inter-agency collaborations already underway to protect consumers and restore confidence.”

“Many financial frauds are complicated puzzles that require painstaking efforts to piece together. By formally coordinating our efforts, we will be better able to identify the pieces, assemble the puzzle and put an end to the fraud,” said SEC Chairman Mary Schapiro.

The task force is composed of senior-level officials from the following departments, agencies and offices:

*
the Department of Justice;
*
the Department of the Treasury;
*
the Department of Commerce;
*
the Department of Labor;
*
the Department of Housing and Urban Development;
*
the Department of Education;
*
the Department of Homeland Security;
*
the Securities and Exchange Commission;
*
the Commodity Futures Trading Commission;
*
the Federal Trade Commission;
*
the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation;
*
the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System;
*
the Federal Housing Finance Agency;
*
the Office of Thrift Supervision;
*
the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency;
*
the Small Business Administration;
*
the Federal Bureau of Investigation;
*
the Social Security Administration;
*
the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations;
*
the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network;
*
the United States Postal Inspection Service;
*
the United States Secret Service;
*
the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement;
*
relevant Offices of Inspectors General and related Federal entities, including without limitation the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board and the Office of the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program; and
*
such other executive branch departments, agencies, or offices as the President may, from time to time, designate or that the Attorney General may invite.

In addition, the attorney general will invite representatives of the National Association of Attorneys General, the National District Attorneys Association and other state, local, tribal, and territorial representatives to participate in the task force through its Enforcement Committee.

http://www.dhs.gov/ynews/testimony/testimony_1258473176155.shtm

Testimony of Alex Garza, MD, MPH, Office of Health Affairs, before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee on “H1N1 Flu: Getting the Vaccine to Where it is Most Needed”
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Release Date: November 17, 2009

Dirksen Senate Office Building
(Written Testimony)

Chairman Lieberman, Ranking Member Collins and members of the Committee, thank you for taking the time today to discuss the national response to 2009 H1N1 flu. The Office of Health Affairs (OHA) is a key player in the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) efforts to ensure the nation is prepared for and can respond to 2009 H1N1 influenza, and I welcome the opportunity to provide this update. DHS’ partnerships with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), including the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other federal departments and agencies continue to play a critical role in our efforts. I am honored to testify with my colleagues from ASPR and CDC today.

As the Secretary testified before this Committee a few short weeks ago, the nation has learned valuable lessons from what has happened so far in the 2009 H1N1 outbreak. We continue to monitor the pandemic as well as for any signs of seasonal influenza emergence. DHS has worked in close collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and other agencies to lead a strong response since the initial appearance of 2009 H1N1 flu in the spring, and we have implemented changes to continually improve our response both now and in the future.

Lessons Learned and Accomplishments

As the Secretary has previously stated, based on what we learned since the spring about 2009 H1N1, the federal government has updated its response plans, enhanced our community mitigation planning and guidance, and improved our range of abilities. We have effectively pre-deployed antiviral medications, and we have created and disseminated messages that help the public understand what the nation is facing. These improvements are not only critical to our 2009 H1N1 response, but are also critical to responding to future pandemics.

The Department and other federal agencies have been planning for an influenza pandemic for many years. We learned this past spring that much of what actually occurred in the 2009 H1N1 outbreak did not follow some aspects of prior pandemic planning which focused on threat from the H5N1 avian influenza virus. Since the spring, DHS has led interagency efforts to develop and implement H1N1-specific preparedness and response planning activities. The Office of Health Affairs has been intimately involved in these efforts. On Aug. 25, 2009, Secretary Napolitano signed the DHS 2009-H1N1 Influenza Implementation Plan, which identified specific roles and responsibilities across the Department, and directed all DHS components to develop plans that address key preparation and response actions, performance of mission essential functions, workforce protection, continuity of operations, and communications with key stakeholders during the H1N1 influenza outbreak.

Interagency Coordination

Throughout the response to 2009 H1N1, DHS has engaged continually and closely with federal interagency partners, including HHS, the Department of Education, the Department of State, the Department of Defense, and the White House. In addition, DHS, along with our federal partners, has worked with state, local, tribal, and territorial government and private sector partners to help mitigate and monitor the spread of this illness.

The National 2009 H1N1 Summit, held on July 9, brought together the Secretaries of DHS, HHS and Education, other federal officials and experts, staff from governors’ offices, state, tribal and territorial health, education, and emergency management/homeland security officials, and national organizations to discuss H1N1 response realities and potential scenarios for the fall. The summit was condensed into a webcast for city, county, and local officials and released on Aug. 4 to update local officials on the status of H1N1, resources available and expectations going forward.

In addition, DHS, HHS, and CDC updated guidance to help multiple segments of the private sector and academic community prepare for and respond to 2009 H1N1. DHS, HHS, and the Department of Education released updated guidance for the K-12 education community on Aug. 7; updated business guidance from DHS, HHS, the Department of Labor, and the Department of Commerce on Aug. 19; and guidance for higher education institutions on Aug. 20. In conjunction with the business guidance, DHS, HHS, and the Small Business Administration also produced a small business guide on H1N1 preparedness.

The Office of Health Affairs

For the past three years, OHA has led the Department’s pandemic preparedness activities. OHA stood up a Decision Support Cell at the first reports of the outbreak, and working with our interagency partners, continues to provide critical situational awareness to DHS leadership to assist the Secretary in coordinating the federal response. OHA also serves as the DHS representative to interagency coordinating bodies focused on 2009 H1N1 and co-leads the DHS 2009 H1N1 planning effort in cooperation with the DHS Office of Operations Coordination (OPS). Finally, OHA provides health and medical guidance to our operational components, and ensures that employees are able to execute their mission-critical functions during a pandemic.

Biosurveillance

OHA, through the National Biosurveillance Integration Center (NBIC), integrates and analyzes biological surveillance information from multiple federal, state, local and private sector partners. NBIC provides senior DHS leaders a comprehensive picture of ongoing incidents and outbreaks, both domestically and overseas, and provides the continuing capability to maintain cross-domain analysis and impact assessments of the novel 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic.

At the direction of Secretary Napolitano, OHA, through NBIC, engaged the National Infrastructure Simulation and Analysis Center (NISAC) to assess potential infrastructure impacts of a resurgent novel-H1N1 virus. The results of the assessment effort were analyzed and reviewed thorough an interagency process that included the Departments of Energy, Education, and Labor. The result of this modeling effort provided important insight for senior DHS leaders on the potential impact of the pandemic on infrastructure and sector stresses. These results were widely disseminated two weeks ago to state, local and tribal partners as well as private sector partners and congressional staff. NBIC and NISAC are working with HHS and other federal agencies to conduct an updated assessment using the most up-to-date disease information and mitigation strategies. DHS will use this information to continue to inform federal government planning and preparedness.

DHS Workforce Protection

DHS has one of the largest workforces in the federal government. The health and safety of this workforce continues to be a top priority of the Secretary, and OHA plays a critical role in helping protect the DHS workforce. OHA stockpiled personal protective equipment (PPE) and antivirals in advance of the influenza outbreak; currently PPE is pre-positioned at over 120 DHS locations and field offices nationwide and is ready for deployment as needed.

To test our internal coordination for workforce protection, OHA conducted an Assistant Secretary-level 2009 H1N1/Pandemic table top exercise on Sept. 10, 2009. The exercise was designed to help DHS offices and components identify essential functions while protecting employees during an influenza pandemic event. The forum validated operational relationships, the soundness of Secretarial decision-making processes, roles and responsibilities of DHS components, and confirmed that DHS must plan for and address long-term pandemic-related continuity issues.

Throughout the H1N1 response, OHA and the Management Directorate has provided DHS employees with new and updated guidance on a number of influenza-related topics, including use of respirators, human resources flexibilities, and vaccines and antivirals. This guidance has been disseminated to components and is available to all employees on the DHS intranet. DHS will continue to provide our employees with guidance based on the best science available.

Vaccine

DHS stands ready to provide immunization program support to HHS and state, local, and private sector partners as requested. This summer, FEMA assisted HHS in performing a state assessment of needs that included determining logistical support for vaccine distribution and administration. OHA assisted in this effort by providing expertise on the CDC’s H1N1 Vaccination Distribution Plan.

OHA/DHS also participated in the deliberations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices pandemic workgroup that developed the target groups for vaccination. OHA also became a DHS representative to the CDC H1N1 Vaccine Taskforce.

Conclusion

Chairman Lieberman, Senator Collins, and members of the Committee: Thank you again for this opportunity to testify on the actions we are taking to mitigate the effects of H1N1 flu. I will be glad to answer any questions you may have.

This page was last reviewed/modified on November 17, 2009.

http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/news/newsreleases/2009/H1N1protection.htm

National Institute of Allergy and
Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
http://www.niaid.nih.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, Nov. 16, 2009

NIAID MEDIA AVAILABILITY
Immune System of Healthy Adults May Be Better Prepared Than Expected to Fight 2009 H1N1 Influenza Virus

WHAT:

A new study shows that molecular similarities exist between the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus and other strains of seasonal H1N1 virus that have been circulating in the population since 1988. These results suggest that healthy adults may have a level of protective immune memory that can blunt the severity of infection caused by the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus.

The study team was led by Bjoern Peters, Ph.D., and Alessandro Sette, Ph.D., of La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, Calif., grantees of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health.

The investigators looked at molecular structures known to be recognized by the immune system—called epitopes—on 2009 H1N1 influenza and seasonal H1N1 viruses. Viral epitopes are recognized by immune cells called B and T cells: B cells make antibodies that can bind to viruses, blocking infection, and T cells help to eliminate virus-infected cells.

Using data gathered and reviewed from the scientific literature and deposited into the NIAID-supported Immune Epitope Database and Analysis Resource (www.iedb.org), the investigators found that some viral epitopes are identical in both the 2009 and seasonal H1N1 viral strains. Those epitopes that could be recognized by two subsets of T cells, called CD4 and CD8 T cells, are 41 percent and 69 percent identical, respectively. Subsequent experiments using blood samples taken from healthy adults demonstrated that this level of T-cell epitope conservation may provide some protection and lessen flu severity in healthy adults infected with the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus.

Analysis of the database also found that among six viral surface epitopes that can bind antibody, thereby preventing infection, only one is conserved between 2009 and seasonal H1N1 viral strains.

These results suggest that healthy individuals may have immune memory that recognizes the 2009 H1N1 strain and therefore can mount some measure of an immune attack. The findings also may help explain why the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic affects young children more severely than it does healthy older adults and also why two H1N1 vaccinations are needed to protect children ages nine years and under.
ARTICLE:

J Greenbaum et al. Pre-existing immunity against swine-origin H1N1 influenza viruses in the general human populace. Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences. DOI: 10.1073/PNAS.0911580106.
WHO:

Alison Deckhut-Augustine, Ph.D., Chief, Immunoregulation Section, Basic Immunology Branch, NIAID Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation, is available for comment.
CONTACT: To schedule interviews, please contact Julie Wu at 301-402-1663, niaidnews@niaid.nih.gov.

NIAID conducts and supports research—at NIH, throughout the United States, and worldwide—to study the causes of infectious and immune-mediated diseases, and to develop better means of preventing, diagnosing and treating these illnesses. News releases, fact sheets and other NIAID-related materials are available on the NIAID Web site at http://www.niaid.nih.gov.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH)—The Nation’s Medical Research Agency—includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. It is the primary federal agency for conducting and supporting basic, clinical and translational medical research, and it investigates the causes, treatments and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit http://www.nih.gov.

###

http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm190783.htm

FDA NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS

For Immediate Release: Nov. 16, 2009

Media Inquires: Pat El-Hinnawy, 301-796-4763; patricia.el-hinnawy@fda.hhs.gov
Consumer Inquiries: 888- INFO-FDA

FDA Approves Additional Vaccine for 2009 H1N1 Influenza Virus

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it has approved a fifth vaccine for protection against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. The vaccine is manufactured by ID Biomedical Corp. of Quebec, Canada, owned by GlaxoSmithKline PLC.

As with the four previous H1N1 influenza vaccines licensed by the FDA on Sept.15, 2009, ID Biomedical Corporation will manufacture its H1N1 vaccine using the established, licensed egg-based manufacturing process used for producing seasonal flu vaccine.

Potential side effects of this H1N1 vaccine are expected to be similar to those of the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines. The most common side effect is soreness at the injection site. Others may include mild fever, body aches and fatigue for a few days after the inoculation.

As with any medical product, unexpected or rare serious adverse events may occur. The FDA is collaborating with other government agencies to enhance adverse event safety monitoring during and after the H1N1 2009 vaccination program.

ID Biomedical’s H1N1 monovalent vaccine will be produced in multi-dose vials, in a formulation that contains thimerosal.

As with any medical product, unexpected or rare serious adverse events may occur. FDA is collaborating with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other government agencies to enhance the capacity for adverse event safety monitoring during and after the 2009 H1N1 vaccination program.

For more information
FDA Page on Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccine

http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2009/11/h1n1.shtm

FTC Warns Internet Peddlers that Marketing Unproven H1N1 Flu Products May Be Illegal

The Federal Trade Commission last week sent 10 warning letters to Web site operators who made questionable claims that their products can prevent, treat, or cure the H1N1 flu, commonly known as swine flu. In an ongoing effort that began during the spring, the FTC told the companies – whose products include dietary supplements, air filtration devices, homeopathic remedies, items containing silver, and cleaning agents – that unless they have scientific proof for their claims, they are violating federal law and must drop the claims or face further action.

The FTC conducted its swine flu surf as part of the International Consumer Protection Enforcement Network’s 11th Internet sweep, which took place from September 21 to 25, 2009. As part of this sweep, consumer protection agencies around the world targeted rapidly growing fraudulent and deceptive conduct on the Internet, with special emphasis on conduct exploiting financial crises or natural disasters such as the H1N1 pandemic. Besides sending warning letters to 10 operators, the FTC referred 14 other Web site operators – which it suspects are located outside the United States – to foreign law enforcement authorities.

“As consumers grow increasingly anxious about obtaining the H1N1vaccine for their children and other vulnerable family members, scam artists take advantage by selling them bogus remedies online,” said David Vladeck, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

In collaboration with other enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the FTC will continue to work aggressively to identify, investigate, and take additional regulatory and law enforcement action against individuals or businesses that deceptively promote purported H1N1 products.

The FTC reminds consumers that the only products recommended for treatment of H1N1 flu are prescription antiviral drugs, including oseltamivir (brand name Tamiflu) and zanamivir (brand name Relenza).

The FTC’s Consumer Alert, Rx for Products That Claim to Prevent H1N1? A Healthy Dose of Skepticism, warns the public to be skeptical of claims that products like pills, air filtration devices, and cleaning agents can kill or eliminate the virus. The alert advises consumers to:

* Know the facts: The H1N1 virus is thought to spread from person to person in the same way that seasonal flu spreads – mainly coughing or sneezing by people with the flu. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.
* Keep your hands clean: Public health authorities advise that basic personal hygiene is the best protection against infection. Wash your hands thoroughly. When soap and water are not available, health authorities suggest using alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers. These products are available in most supermarkets and drugstores.
* Check travel advisories for affected areas: To lower your risk of infection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests avoiding travel to affected regions.
* Seek medical attention: If you think either you may have influenza symptoms, or you may have been in direct contact with someone who has the flu, consult a health care professional immediately.
* Stay informed: For more information from the federal government about the H1N1 flu, check out flu.gov or visit the CDC at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/.
To learn more, go to http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt083.shtm.

Consumers who wish to file a complaint against a company that they believe may be deceptively advertising H1N1 flu products are urged to call 1–877–FTC–HELP (1–877–382– 4357) or visit https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/.

The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint in English or Spanish, visit the FTC’s online Complaint Assistant or call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357). The FTC enters complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure, online database available to more than 1,500 civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad. The FTC’s Web site provides free information on a variety of consumer topics.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Betsy Lordan
Office of Public Affairs
202-326-3707

STAFF CONTACT:
Rich Cleland,
Bureau of Consumer Protection
202-326-3088

Karen Jagielski
Bureau of Consumer Protection
202-326-2509

(Swine flu folo H1N1.wpd)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Best wishes to you and your family and a special thanks to all the
service men and women and their families who serve our country in the
Marines, Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

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It’s a pleasure to be in touch.

Sincerely,

Jan Brett

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This message was sent by Jan Brett, Post Office Box 366, Norwell, Ma,
02061

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm191010.htm

SNACKS ON RACKS, INC. Issues Nationwide Allergy Alert because of Undeclared Allergens in Their Gourmet Snacks Pack Product Line

Company Contact:
Jennifer Juarez,
816-505-9131 x 7002

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 17, 2009 - Snacks on Racks, Inc. of Parkville, Missouri is recalling products from their line of Gourmet Snacks Packs because they may contain undeclared milk, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, egg, sulfites or wheat. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, sulfites, soy or wheat run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. The complete list of recalled products are listed at the end of this press release.

Gourmet Snack Packs are distributed throughout the continental United States to food service establishments at hospitals, colleges, universities and corporate cafeterias and kiosks. Gourmet Snack Packs are not sold to convenient stores, gas stations, grocery or mass market retailers.

Gourmet Snack Packs are packaged in clear, rectangular-shaped, safety sealed, plastic container with a blue Snacks on Racks label adhered to the top of the product. The retail packaging is not marked with any codes, UPC numbers, or expiration dates. A date code is stickered on the case packaging only. Consumers will be able to distinguish between the recalled product and the correctly-labeled new product because the new product will have the recycling symbol located in the bottom right corner of the label.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The recall was initiated when it was discovered that the Snacks on Racks labeling for chocolate raisins did not match the original manufacturer’s allergen statement. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem occurred in the company’s production and packaging processes. Snacks on Racks has implemented new processes to ensure customer safety.

Consumers who have purchased Snacks on Racks Gourmet Snack Packs are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-816-505-9131 between the hours of 8am to 4pm CST Monday through Friday or visit the website at www.snacksonracks.com.

PRODUCT IMPACTED BY THE RECALL:

Product Name

Product Weight

Roasted No Salt Almonds 4 oz.
Roasted Salted Almonds 4 oz.
Autumn Mix 5 oz.
Autumn Peanut Mix 5 oz.
Boston Baked Beans 5 oz.
Candy Corn 5 oz.
Caramel Apple Pie Mix 5 oz.
Cherry Slices 5 oz.
Cherry Sour Balls 5 oz.
Chewy Sprees® 5 oz.
Chocolate Almonds 5 oz.
Chocolate Banana Chips 4 oz.
Chocolate Bridge Mix 5 oz.
Milk Chocolate Coffee Beans 5 oz.
Dark Chocolate Coffee Beans 5 oz.
Double Dipped Peanuts 4 oz.
Chocolate Maltballs 3.5 oz.
Chocolate Pretzels 2.5 oz.
Chocolate Raisins 5 oz.
Cinnaberry Breakfast Blend 3 oz.
Cinnamon Bears 5 oz.
Confetti 4 oz.
Dark Chocolate Maltballs 3.5 oz.
Deluxe Mixed Nuts 4 oz.
Energy Mix 4 oz.
Garlic Club Mix 3 oz.
Grape Sour Balls 5 oz.
Gummi Apple O’s 4 oz.
Gummi Bears 5 oz.
Gummi Peach O’s 4 oz.
Gummi Strawberries 5 oz.
Gummi Worms 4 oz.
Halloween JuJu Pumpkins 5 oz.
2008 Red & Green Sour Balls 5 oz.
Honey Cheddar Mix 2 oz.
Honey Roasted Peanuts 5 oz.
Hot Tamales® 5 oz.
Lemon Drops 5 oz.
Lemonheads® 5 oz.
Mike N Ike® 5 oz.
Mini Red Swedish Fish® 5 oz.
Mini Assorted Swedish Fish® 5 oz.
Natures Harvest 4 oz.
Nik Naks 2 oz.
No Sugar Added Chocolate Raisins 5 oz.
Orange Cranberry Trail Mix 4 oz.
Orange Slices 5 oz.
Peanut Caramel Clusters 4 oz.
Peanut Clusters 4 oz.
Peanut Colada 4 oz.
Select Peanut Mix 4 oz.
Sugar Free Chocolate Peanuts 4 oz.
Salted Cashews 4 oz.
Salted VA Peanuts 4 oz.
Sesame Sensation 3 oz.
Assorted Sour Balls 5 oz.
Sour Bears 5 oz.
Gummi Sour Worms 4 oz.
Soy Energizer Mix 4 oz.
Sour Patch Cherries® 4 oz.
Sour Patch Watermelon® 4 oz.
Sour Patch Kids® 4 oz.
Spicy Club Mix 3 oz.
Strawberry Field Trail Mix 3 oz.
Sunflower Seeds R/S 5 oz.
Toffee Mixed Nuts 4 oz.
Toffee Pecans 4 oz.
Yogurt Almonds 5 oz.
Yogurt Cranberries 5 oz.
Yogurt Pretzels 2.5 oz.
Yogurt Raisins 5 oz.
2008 Holiday Red/Green Pretzel Balls 5 oz.

Photo: Product Labels

RSS Feed for FDA Recalls Information [what’s this?]

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Page Last Updated: 11/17/2009

This was posted on the local board and it’s very close to
“Lowcountry SC “ style

enjoy:

Here is a good recipe out of a cook book by Bill Neal, erstwhile owner and operator or Crook’s Corner in Chapel Hill. You absolutely have to use old fashioned grits. Do not use instant grits and do not use quick grits:

GRITS

4 ½ cups of water
1 teaspoon of salt
1 cup of grits
Butter
¾ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

Bring the water to a boil
Add Salt
Slowly add grits (sift through one hand) stirring the water while adding the grits. Do not let the water go much below boiling, but do not boil over either.
When the grits have all been added, continue stirring, but reduce the heat until only an occasional bubble breaks the surface.
Continue cooking 30 to 40 minutes (my experience is a little less cooking is required. If it gets too dry, add more water), stirring frequently.
|Beat in a good quantity of butter and the cheese.

SHRIMP & GRITS (for 4 servings)

1 recipe of grits see above
Tobasco Sause
Freshly grated nutmeg
White pepper
1 lb. fresh, headed, shrimp
6 slices of bacon
peanut oil
2 cups of sliced mushrooms
1 cup of finely sliced scallions
2-3 large cloves of garlic, peeled
4 teaspoons of lemon juice
more Tobasco sauce
2 tablespoons fresh, chopped parlsey
Salt & Pepper

Prepare the grits recipe above, but season with a little Tobasco, a very little nutmeg, and some white pepper. Hold in warm place
Peel shrimp and pat dry.
Dice the bacon and sauté lightly in a large cast iron skillet. The edges should be just a little brown, but the bacon should not be crisp at all.
Possible add a little peanut oil. My experience is that the bacon gives enough grease, but if not, add a little of the peanut oil. When it is pretty hot, add the mushrooms and sauté for about 4 minutes while stirring occasionally. Add onions and shrimp. Add garlic through a press and stir. Add lemon juice, a dash or two of Tobasco and parsley. Stir until the shrimp is just done. It is better to have the shrimp too raw than too done. |Salt and pepper to taste. Add the grits to 4 plates (or bowls) and spoon shrimp mixture over the shrimp. Serve immediately.

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