 NewsUSA) – America’s private, job-based benefits system is one of the most successful in the world. The benefit plans within the system hold more than $6.1 trillion in assets and cover approximately 150 million workers, retirees and their families. The job-based benefits that give millions of workers health coverage and the opportunity to enjoy a financially secure retirement are more critical than ever.
Since 2001, the Labor Department has made great gains in its efforts to safeguard the pension, health and other employee benefits crucial to millions of workers. And we are continuing to improve the system to make benefits more accessible and secure. This administration succeeded in enacting the Pension Protection Act of 2006 – the most sweeping reforms of retirement plan rules in over three decades. These reforms have improved the solvency and the transparency of traditional pension plans, better ensuring that retirement promises made to workers are kept. We are boosting participation in 401(k) and similar plans through automatic enrollment, helping many more workers and their families build a nest egg for a secure and comfortable retirement. We are also making it easier for workers to get quality, professional investment advice to inform their retirement savings decisions. And the Labor Department’s efforts have produced record-setting results. Since 2001, our enforcement and outreach programs have yielded monetary results of nearly $11 billion on behalf of workers and retirees and have led to the indictment of more than 800 individuals for crimes involving benefit plans. In addition, the participant assistance program handled nearly 1.3 million inquiries that helped individuals understand their benefit programs and recovered nearly $545 million to pay pension and health benefits of working families. The Department’s successful stewardship benefits millions of Americans, both as workers and investors. The Department of Labor put the tools in place for workers to plan and save for their retirement, and now it is up to each of us to save so we can achieve our retirement dreams. For more information or assistance, call 1-866-444-3272 or visit the Web site at www.dol.gov/ebsa today. |
Free New Medical Service Saves Money in 3 Steps
 NewsUSA) – As an emergency room doctor, I was moved by problems that people faced in seeking medical care. I established FreeMD.com to provide a new, free medical service that will save people money by immediately helping them determine what may be wrong and where to go for the appropriate care. Taking the right steps when something happens is important whether consumers have medical insurance or not.
Many people are alone when symptoms pop up or injuries occur. Now, anyone with access to the Internet can get help making decisions promptly. Numerous studies show that many people go to the emergency room for care when they do not have an emergency. A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that a visit to the emergency room can cost five times more than at a doctor’s office. Another study by the Indiana Health Department found that using a nurse practitioner can cost 40 percent less than using a doctor. With health care costs rising and many people uninsured, it’s important to keep in mind these three steps to save money and time: - Determine whether it’s an emergency. - Determine whether the problem needs the attention of a professional. - Determine the right place to get the appropriate care. Unfortunately, without a doctor on hand, it’s often impossible to know how to answer those three questions. Those people who usually rely on the emergency room for care could save money and time by correctly identifying non-emergencies, then seeking less costly services. Those with insurance could avoid paying deductibles for service in the wrong place and then paying again for service in the right place. People who visit FreeMD.com will meet me as the virtual doctor, and I will help them make the right decisions. The virtual doctor will tell them what might be wrong and where to go for care -; the emergency room, urgent care center, or the doctor’s office. If they don’t need to see a professional, the doctor will explain how to treat the problem at home. FreeMD.com even helps them find the closest emergency room, urgent care center or doctor’s office. |
Back to School, Back to Driving Basics
 NewsUSA) – For teenagers, heading back to school can mean increased driving. But before you let your teenager drive to school, sporting events or on trips with friends, you should make sure he knows how to drive safely.
The first few months behind the wheel can feel overwhelming. Try not to criticize teenagers’ driving. Instead, make sure that your son or daughter knows that they can ask you questions. Make your “driving safety” talk part of a special trip or treat, so young drivers feel comfortable. Ensure that teens get your message: I trust you behind the wheel, but driving is both a privilege and an important responsibility. The experts at Firestone Complete Auto Care suggest that parents discuss the following topics with their teens: - Gadgets and Gizmos. New drivers might not understand all of the lights, buttons and meters that surround the wheel. Explain the dashboard. Make sure your teenager can adjust his seat and check his mirrors. - Teach Basic Maintenance.You don’t want your teenager driving an out-of-shape car, so teach your teenager to check the oil and other automotive fluids. Make sure that teenagers can check and adjust tire pressure. You might also want to teach your teen how to attach a spare tire in case of a blow-out. - Set Realistic Travel Times. More traffic is on the road when teenagers head to school, so caution them to set their alarm clock a bit early. If your son or daughter has slept in, tell them to accept the delay. You don’t want them speeding, tailgating or weaving through traffic to make up for lost time. - Aggression Isn’t Worth It. Make sure your teenager knows not to engage aggressive drivers. If your teenager meets an aggressive driver on the road, tell them to move out of the way and let the other vehicle pass. If an aggressive driver pursues your teen, let them know that they should call the police and pull into a well-lit, populated area to get help. A driver’s license shouldn’t mean a fight with your teenager. Instead, strengthen your relationship by allowing your son or daughter to earn your trust and express their growing independence. |
Electric Cars in the Here and Now
 NewsUSA) – People used to assume that electric cars were science fiction -; a technology that might help reduce gas needs in the distant future. But with gas prices on the rise, hybrid technologies never looked so appealing.
Companies now make road-worthy electric vehicles that reach normal speeds, travel normal distances and plug into normal electrical outlets. What’s not-so-normal? The cost of an electric vehicle’s upkeep. Electric cars don’t need gas. They don’t require air filters or oil changes. Driving 120 miles in a gas engine car costs at least $13.50. The electricity needed to power an electric car 120 miles costs a paltry $2.20. Electric car buyers can also receive state and federal tax credits. Many technology companies see potential in lithium-ion battery technology, the batteries that can give electric cars staying power. But one company, Hybrid Technologies, Inc., both builds new electric cars and converts existing vehicles to use electric motors. Hybrid Technologies, Inc. (HYBR.OB) built one concept vehicle, the Reaper, for military use. The Reaper can handle tough terrain, reach speeds of 85 miles per hour and go 185 miles between power-ups. Hybrid Technologies also converts the Mini Cooper, Smart Car, Toyota Yaris, PT Cruiser and Chrysler Crossfire into electric vehicles. Hybrid Technologies removes the vehicles’ original gas engine and installs an electric battery, which gives each car a 120-mile range. Hybrid Technologies sees its sophisticated battery-management system, which uses lithium-ion batteries, as the key to its financial future. It estimates that its lithium-ion batteries will last at least 120,000 miles before they need replacement. Hybrid Technologies offers warranties on all of its converted vehicles. If a car owner has a problem that cannot be solved over the phone, Hybrid Technologies will either send a technician to the owner’s home or ship the vehicle back to its facilities. Hybrid Technologies is attracting buzz on the marketplace. The company hopes to make an electric Mini Cooper available through Sam’s Club Stores, and both NASA and the Environmental Protection Agency use technologies developed by Hybrid Technologies. Oil now trades at over $129 a barrel. Lithium-ion technologies can only become more valuable, and Hybrid Technologies, Inc. looks like a solid contender in the green market. Jenn Hoffman is a host of The QualityStocks Daily News Segment each day at QualityStocks.net, and she also works as an independent business consultant to select companies nationwide. Most recently, she was featured on “The Apprentice.” Hoffman will be active with “The QualityStocks for Women” newsletter, geared toward investment-minded women. To sign up for the newsletter, log on to http://Signup.QualityStocks.net. |
Avoiding the Controversy With Adult Stem Cells
 NewsUSA) – To the majority of the people in the U.S., “stem cells” mean “embryonic stem cells” -; the cells from which scientists need to destroy an embryo to obtain.
Embryonic stem cell research gets attention, but embryonic stem cells have not treated a single patient. While American stem cell research remains obsessed with embryos and mired in politics, in other countries -; several Asian countries, Mexico, Germany, Argentina, Peru, Switzerland and the U.K. -; adult stem cells have helped patients with everything from diabetes to Parkinson’s disease. Adult stem cells can be found in every person’s skin, bone marrow, brain, blood vessels, skeletal muscles and liver. Medical teams can remove adult stem cells from patients, then multiply the stem cells in laboratories. When the stem cells are reintroduced into patients, they help grow new, healthy tissue. What are the implications of this technology? Parkinson’s patients can receive stem cells that produce dopamine, helping to reverse the effects of their disease. Heart disease patients can reverse cardiovascular damage using their own stem cells. Numerous patients, with over 100 “incurable” diseases, have significantly improved their health through adult stem cell technology and can now enjoy a better quality of life. Adult stem cells have helped patients with cancers, liver failure, autoimmune diseases, spinal cord injury -; even broken bones and infected surface wounds. Thousands of Americans are dying needlessly each month. I founded the International Center for Adult Stem Cell Education (ICASCE) to educate the American public on the potential of adult stem cells for diagnosing, treating, curing and preventing disease. Americans should not suffer and die without knowing that adult stem cells exist. Americans can receive immediate, life-changing treatments for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, sickle cell anemia, multiple sclerosis, breast cancer and many other diseases -; if they look outside of America. One of the ICASCE’s goals is to help people find immediate treatment using adult stem cells. To find a facility, people can contact the ICASCE at its Web site, adultstemcelleducation.com. My mission is to save and improve lives now, not years in the future, with already proven, ultra-safe adult stem cell therapies. The research and clinical trials have been done. Americans simply need to access the same technologies that already save lives across the globe. Margolis is the founder and chairman for the International Center for Adult Stem Cell Education. He started the first company in the world to treat dying heart patients with adult stem cells. (www.Adultstemcelleducation.com; donmargolis@gmail.com) |
Plan Ahead for Summer Fun on the Road
 NewsUSA) – For many American families, summer means driving season. If you’re planning a trip, it’s important to make a few preparations before you leave the driveway.
To get ready for summer driving, the experts at Firestone Complete Auto Care recommend drivers take the following steps: - Consider what you’re taking. If you’re mounting a storage shell or towing a trailer, make sure your vehicle’s in good condition. Verify that you have the fittings to attach your storage unit or trailer to your vehicle properly. Always check your tires’ air pressure, especially if you’re carrying extra weight. - Consider whether you need to use low gears. If you’re in the mountains, switching into low gear can reduce wear on your vehicle’s brake systems. Have your brake and transmission systems inspected by your automotive service professional before you set off on your trip. - If you are going off-road, make sure your vehicle is up to the task. As you should before any trip, check that your tires are properly inflated and aligned, and that they appear in good condition. Make sure that your spare tire is in tip-top shape -; after all, you’ll need to make it back to the pavement if you have a flat tire. Finally, check the vehicle manual to make sure you know how to safely operate your vehicle’s 4-wheel-drive system. - Think about fuel use. If you add a storage shell, tow a trailer or use 4-wheel drive, your fuel efficiency will drop. Since you’ll be consuming fuel at a faster rate than you’re used to, it’s important to keep an eye on the gas gauge -; especially if you’ll be in a remote or unfamiliar area. - Prepare an emergency kit. Keep a few emergency items handy. Include a flashlight, first aid kit, cell phone charger, water and non-perishable food, a properly inflated spare tire, jumper cables and your auto club membership. If you’ll be in a very remote area, consider bringing a tent or other shelter. Taking the time to plan and prepare for your summer adventures can help keep you and your family safe on the road. |
What To Know About Window Replacement
 NewsUSA) – Replacing the windows in your home is a great way to increase windows’ energy efficiency and overall ease of use. But how should you choose the best replacement windows? Use these tips to determine the best replacement window for you:
- Think Green. Replacing your windows can increase your home’s energy efficiency by up to 70 percent. Today’s modern double-paned windows can eliminate the need for storm windows. - Look for Strong Materials. Replacement windows should be low-maintenance and durable, so they will look good over time. Consider getting wood-clad windows with extruded aluminum cladding. Exterior cladding does not need to be scraped or painted. - Think About Aesthetics. Whether you are replacing your windows to have a whole new look or want to replicate the look of historic wooden windows, it is important to choose from a range of options. Replacement windows, such as the Ultimate Replacement Casement from Marvin Windows and Doors, use patented hardware systems and have unique wash modes that allow you to wash the exterior of the window from the inside of your home. - Choose the Right Supplier. With so many window manufacturers in the marketplace, how do you know whom to trust? Choose a window manufacturer who is well-established and has an excellent reputation. Selecting high-quality windows won’t pay off unless qualified people install them. To learn more about replacing your windows, please visit www.MarvinCasement.com or call (888) 537-8268. Lou Manfredini is a national home improvement expert and regular contributor to NBC’s Today Show and host of the television show HouseSmarts. |
Low-Calorie Waters Prevent Dehydration
 NewsUSA) – With the arrival of warmer weather, many people spend more time outdoors – at the beach, playing sports or just strolling through the neighborhood. But as the needle on the thermometer rises, so does the need to combat dehydration.
Dehydration is the loss of water and salts from the body. Although fluid loss occurs during hard physical work, it can also happen during simple tasks like gardening, walking or riding a bike – especially in hot or humid conditions. Minor dehydration can cause symptoms like muscle weakness and vertigo. According to the Mayo Clinic, major dehydration can become a life-threatening emergency that requires hospitalization. What is the best way to treat dehydration? Avoid becoming dehydrated in the first place -; people should drink water or non-caffeinated beverages, such as Old Orchard’s FruitSense, before feeling thirsty. To stay hydrated: - Drink before you feel the heat. One-and-a-half cups of liquid 20 to 30 minutes before exercise helps prevent dehydration. - Eat regularly. The heat can decrease your appetite. Besides being delicious and nutritious, fruits help with hydration. - Identify beverages that match your lifestyle. If you are trying to lose weight, consider a low-calorie beverage. - Drink beverages at a moderate temperature. It is easier to drink liquids that are neither too hot nor too cold. Everyone knows to drink water, but sometimes tastier drinks better hydrate exercisers -; studies show that both children and adults drink 45 percent more fluid when the liquid contains flavor. But not all flavored “exercise” drinks prove bathing-suit-friendly. Many so-called rehydration beverages and flavored waters contain empty calories, high sodium and artificial sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). You don’t have to abandon flavored waters altogether -; just choose your waters wisely. FruitSense, for example, features 5 percent real fruit juice and offers antioxidant vitamins C and E, plus essential A and B vitamins, for only 45 calories per cup. Additionally, FruitSense is sweetened with organic agave nectar, not HFCS or artificial sweeteners, so it’s diabetic- and diet-friendly. Whether you’re a dedicated gym rat or a weekend warrior, staying hydrated is critical to your well-being and overall health. Remember to drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids while working, exercising or relaxing in the summer. Amy Bragagnini, M.S., R.D., is a registered dietician. She holds a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Tri-State University in Angola, IN. |
