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Divide widens under Russian capitalism - 4 0ct 08

2008-10-06T20:53:12Z

Since the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia has embraced a capitalist system.

Within 17 years, the Russian capital boasted more billionaires than any other city in the world.

But, as Al Jazeera's Neave Barker reports, not everybody is getting a share of the profits.

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John McCain: Town Hall 09/22/08

2008-09-30T12:48:41Z

John McCain
Town Hall
Scranton, PA 09/22/08

TRANSCRIPT:
QUESTIONER: [...] I think you said you were gonna [give a $5,000] deduction for people's health care. Well, my health care is like $18,000 a year. [Where am I going to get] the other $13,000?

JOHN MCCAIN: Well, first of all, if you have $5,000 refundable tax credit, then you--and you are able to go around any place in this country, which you are not allowed to do so today, I think you can find a much less expensive health insurance policy-- Number one. Number two: If you have a condition that we call chronic condition or pre-existing conditions, then we're gonna have to provide Government Approved Programs, which means that we will have to have the federal government and the state [...] government contribute and make significant financial investment in providing those people, who cannot get health insurance, affordable health care who have [...] chronic and pre-existing conditions.

LABEL: JM PA 09-22 (JR#68) SAG - ClipB - LS

To download a high-res version of this clip, VISIT: Coming soon!

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The Gap Will Tear Us Apart Again

2008-10-06T20:41:56Z

Andy wants a hoodie.

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John McCain: Town Hall 08/20/08

2008-08-27T16:47:17Z

John McCain
Town Hall
Las Cruces, NM 08/20/08

TRANSCRIPT:
AUDIENCE MEMBER: [...] My husband was the former mayor of El Paso. [...] My husband was diagnosed with a brain disorder, the same one that afflicted Sen. Domenici. And at 51, he did not have long-term care. And it was so devastating that totally destroyed our finances, so I had to take him to my family's country home, which is in Spain. I got to see first-hand how social care was so much affordable. He was a fighter--although he undermined his muscle, he lost his voice, I was able to provide better care for him in another country than in our own. And so, I wanna know about your health care plan [starts to cry]-- how can be affordable? How can we change that? Why did I have to take him someplace else so he could die in a better place than his own country?

[applause]

JOHN MCCAIN: Thank you and please accept the sympathy of all of us. [...] There is a health care crisis in America. [...] We have to reform health care in America. And we have to make insurance available and affordable for all Americans. I do not believe that that means a government-run health care system is the most efficient for what we need. [applause] And we need to have policies that encourage home health care as opposed to institutionalized care. And we need to treat people on an outcome basis, that don't pay for every test or every procedure, every visit to the doctor; but treat them for a period of time and then pay that provider. [...] There's a program now [...] that's not as wide as I'd like to see where it's called cash-in counseling, and seniors are given money every month and then they're able to decide how they want to pay for their own health care. It's remarkable the savings that have been realized.

MCCAIN: But in cases like your husband, where they're basically uninsurables, quote "uninsurables"--people with chronic diseases such as the terrible affliction that befell your husband--[...] we should have [...] Government Approved Plans, so that we pool federal and state money together and establish wide risk pools so that there is affordable and available health insurance for people like you and your husband. We cannot leave the quote "uninsurables," or chronic-disease victims, without the access to care. And so it's gonna have to be a federal and state combination, providing significant federal money from the federal government. And we are going to have to have that as a major part of health care reform. Because we cannot allow any American, any American citizen to experience what your husband experienced.

LABEL: JM NM 08-20 (EW#15) CRKD - ClipA

To download a higher-resolution version of this clip, VISIT: issuealliance.box.net

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Top European stores head for U.S.

2008-09-29T18:33:50Z

Aug 13 - Spanish retailer Zara passes the Gap as the world's top retailer, putting a spotlight on the rise of European shops.

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NANCY PELOSI says AMERICA WOULD DIVIDE IF BUSH IS IMPEACHED!

2008-09-02T22:51:33Z

BItch Nancy what the hell did she do?? NOTHING!

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John McCain: Town Hall 04/30/08

2008-06-30T23:57:25Z

John McCain
Town Hall Meeting
Allentown, PA 04/30/08

TRANSCRIPT:
QUESTIONER: ". . . my question is really about objectivity and every time I see a debate on health care I really wonder whether or not the statistics and the data that people are discussing are accurate, reliable . . . so are you satisfied with the information that you're getting in terms of it's ability to allow competent decision making?"

JOHN MCCAIN: "I think on the major statistics I am. And here's the most disturbing fact of all and I don't think it's disputed: 47 million Americans are without health insurance today. Half of them will probably, is because they're out of a job and they will gain employment and then they will then be able to obtain health insurance. And that's nice to know. But the other half, which I, 8 million are children, then they, and many of those children of course is just because we haven't been around to sign them up. But then you get down into what you and I all know, is with the big looming fiscal problem and challenge and that is those with people with chronic diseases and, or, and/or preexisting conditions. And that is the area where we really have to address because the insurers won't insure them, they either making too much money to qualify for Medicaid or other reasons, like I said there are some children that simply aren't in the SCHIP program just because they haven't signed up for it . . . And so my answer to you is I think that a lot of the, some of the statistics may be not accurate but the issue of the uninsured and those with preexisting conditions or chronic diseases, is, is really a, particularly the preexisting conditions, is one that's the major challenge in health care in America today."

LABEL: JM PA 4-30 (GR#81) DHGIS - Clip E

To download a high res version of this clip, VISIT: https://issuealliance.box.net/shared/a2rp7ac08w
To download the full campaign event, VISIT: https://issuealliance.box.net/shared/9xb1l2348c

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John McCain: Town Hall Meeting 05/01/08

2008-06-30T23:48:43Z

John McCain
Town Hall Meeting
Des Moines, IA 05/01/08

TRANSCRIPT:
JOHN MCCAIN: "And now we need to come to the . . .quote, 'uninsurables.' People with chronic diseases or preexisting conditions. My friends, obviously if you can't get insurance you're in deep trouble, we all know that, we all know that. But we need to have what is called GAP, guaranteed access plans, and there are states that are working on it right now. In the state of Florida, their Governor Charlie Christ, is talking about a plan called "Cover Florida." In 20 states they have already taken measures to reduce the size, or, or, or, uh, cap the premiums for people who are, who have these conditions. We must work with the Governors. And we may have, we'll have to establish a fund, working with the states and the Governors and the legislatures and the patients. And we will provide, and we will provide the needed care for those who have chronic diseases or preexisting conditions . . . But in the meantime we need to have more choice and competition and health care for every person in America . . ."

LABEL: JM IA 5-1 (GR#82) DAGIZZ - Clip G

To download a high res version of this clip, VISIT: https://issuealliance.box.net/shared/o59rydl44w
To download the full campaign event, VISIT: https://issuealliance.box.net/shared/oyv4d24cg8

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McCain: Town Hall 05/01/08

2008-06-30T22:54:25Z

John McCain
Town Hall
Cleveland, OH 05/01/08

TRANSCRIPT:
JOHN MCCAIN: "I have also pledged to meet with the governors to solicit their ideas about the best way to provide insurance to those that are denied coverage under current practices. I'll build a guaranteed access plan or GAP that would reflect the best experiences of the states. I'll work with congress, with the governors, with the industry to make sure that it's funded adequately and has the right incentives to reduce costs such as disease management, individual case management and health and wellness programs. My reform will change the practice of medicine in America."

LABEL:
JM OH (EW#5) DAGH - Clip D

To download a high res version of this clip, VISIT: https://issuealliance.box.net/shared/spmvlvi80g

To download the full campaign event, VISIT: Tape 1: https://issuealliance.box.net/shared/56q9jm2ccs; Tape 2: https://issuealliance.box.net/shared/qwcj4u6scw

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How to Write a Grant Proposal that Works - Part 1

2008-08-10T08:33:52Z

For many organizations, grants can be an essential source of capital and funding. However, there are only a limited number of government agencies and foundations offering grant assistance so competition for funding can be fierce. So, it is essential that any grant proposal should contain all the necessary information and be presented in the right manner for it to be successful. In this two-part article I look at the elements that make a successful grant proposal.

Most funders will provide their own application forms and instructions for any grants that they make available. So the first thing you should do is to request the proper forms. In some cases they may accept a generic application form but it won't increase your chances of success. Be sure to read all instructions before you begin preparing your application. If you have doubts about anything or any questions you should contact the funder for advice.

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How to Secure Technology Funding Online

2008-08-19T16:38:46Z

Securing technology funding may not be as difficult as you think. While traditional sources of funding such as grants and donations from government agencies and private foundations can be an excellent source of funding, there are other alternatives. And with the competition for grants being so competitive, it is well worth considering some online funding tactics for your technology needs.

Of course this is not an effective method for private businesses. However, for non-profit organizations it is a perfectly legitimate and potentially lucrative source of funding. There are a number of different strategies for raising technology funding online.

At the most basic level, you can simply add a button to your website and the facility for visitors to donate to your organization. This is often done using PayPal and PayPal even provides a ready-made button you can put on your website to facilitate this. This can be an ongoing source of funding with no upper or lower limits on the amount people can donate.

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Tips for Securing Technology Funding

2008-08-19T16:38:46Z

Gaining funding from outside sources is essential for non-profit organizations if they are to keep their technology up to date. However, there are countless organizations in competition for limited funding so it is important to have a good knowledge of the grant funding landscape before submitting an application.

One of the most important things to remember when seeking technology funding is that funders want to help non-profit organizations improve and reach their goals. However, any technology spend should be practical and within reasonable financial limits in relation to the size of the organization.

For this reason, the greater the apparent need for the technology the better the chances of securing funding. For example, a school with very old or defunct computers for students will have an excellent chance of securing funding, whereas an application for funding to improve the school's already strong online presence may fail.

The most important points to consider when seeking funding are to submit an excellent grant application and to have a good knowledge of possible funding sources.

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Technology Research Funding

2008-08-19T16:38:46Z

Some of the most significant technological advances in our society have depended on funding to make them a reality. For the most part, research funding comes from governments and usually stands at somewhere between 1.5% and 3% of GDP in developed countries.

However, it can be even higher than this in more progressive countries. Of course, not all of this money is dedicated to technology funding. Science and social science research projects also get their fair share.

In fact, competition can be fierce both between and within disciplines when it comes to securing funding. In general, securing funding is a competitive process where the most suitable applicants get the money.

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How to Prepare a Grant Budget

2008-08-10T08:33:52Z

If you or your organization is making a grant application there are a number of sections you will have to complete. However, what you do or do not include in the budget section of your application could be the difference between success and failure. In this article I take you through some of the do's and don'ts of preparing your grant budget.

The first thing you should do is read the application guidelines carefully so you are sure of what you need to include—or exclude—in your budget. For example, some funders will not cover overhead costs or additional staff costs.

On the other hand, include everything that applies to your project, no matter how trivial it seems. So, for example, don't omit training costs, copying costs, and all other relevant costs associated with your proposed project.

In the budget section of your application, you need to present your information in a format that is easy to understand, such as in a table. It should include all of the projected costs of the project and all sources of income and funding.

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How to Write a Grant Proposal that Works - Part 2

2008-08-10T08:33:52Z

In the first part of this article, I explained how to write the opening sections of your grant application. In part two of the article, I explain how to complete the process.

Now that you have identified the goals of your project, it is time to give details about how you are going to achieve these goals. Basically, you need to answer any questions a funder might have about the project so think about all the basic questions - Who, Where, When, What and Why.

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How to Increase your Chances of Securing Technology Funding

2008-08-10T08:33:52Z

In the first part of this article, I gave some basic advice on how to boost your chances of securing technology funding. Here are some more tips that should help your cause.

For an organization to be really successful it needs to be pro-active. This involves making the best use of the resources at hand and making every effort to boost its effectiveness by creating its own revenue (if it is a non-profit organization) and teaming up with other organizations with a view to bringing it closer to its goals.

This will benefit an organization on two fronts. First, it will have the direct benefit of bringing the organization closer to its goals. Second, a funder will always look more favorably on an organization that is pro-active and is likely to put its funds to the best possible use. So, there are some tips on how your organization can make the right impression when it comes to securing technology funding.

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How to Increase your Chances of Securing Technology Funding1

2008-08-19T14:41:28Z

Acquiring new technology is a very worthwhile goal for any organization. However, it can be prohibitively expensive to cover the costs of staff, training and equipment so grants and funding are often the only way to secure the money required. In this two part article. I look at how to improve your chances of securing technology funding for your organization.

Perhaps the most important thing to remember before seeking funding for any technology is that the technology must bring your organization a step closer to its goals. Having a room full of state-of-the-art computers for no clear purpose is a waste and it is highly unlikely that anyone is going to provide you with funding for that.

Before you apply for any technology funding ask yourself how it will help your organization achieve its goals. Any prospective funders will certainly ask this question.

If your organization is in it for the long haul and you expect it to be around for a few years to come, it is well worth taking the time and making the effort to get to know the technology funding landscape. First and foremost, find out who is providing the funding and start building relationships.

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The Onion: Gap Unveils New 'For Kids By Kids' Clothing Line

2008-10-06T20:48:55Z

The Onion News Network's Brian Scott reports on a popular new Gap clothing line hand-sewn by children overseas.

More coverage at: onion.com

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5 Critical Tips for Technology Funding

2008-06-07T03:30:14Z

You've identified your problems. You've brainstormed and diagramed the best technology solutions. Now, what's your plan to pay for all the new equipment, training, and personnel?

Yes, technology planning can be fun but it's always costly. One fundamental error managers make is to problem solve without putting on the economic glasses.

We solve problems in an unrealistic world and are oftentimes surprised when we can't buy even 10% of the hardware we planned on.

The following five tips can help you get the funds you need to successfully plan for and implement your technology strategies.

Build Relationships

The world is fueled by relationships. This isn't about being chummy with senior executives for the sole purpose of selling them your case. It's about articulating your mission in a way that inspires passion in yourself as well as others. It's about building emotional ties and bridges so that others will understand and be sympathetic to your cause.

Be a Technology Guru

No, you don't have to be an expert but you do need to be able to plan your project's technology needs. We all understand that equipment and software needs to be upgraded. So plan for it. Make technology a permanent line item in your project's budget. People are important but, without the right technology, they won't be productive.

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Making Technology Funding Possible

2008-06-07T03:30:12Z

Businesses and nonprofits at every level are increasingly called on to provide management information. Technology may not be the sole answer to these information requests, but it nevertheless has become a very important piece of that answer.

Technology can no longer be relegated to secondary planning or fund seeking approaches. It must be a major part of every grant seeker's long term planning and every grant provider's expectations.

Why then is it so difficult for grant seekers to properly account for and express their technology needs? And why are funders so reluctant to invest in technology programs?

Below are four principles that outline how organizations can enable the technology funding machine.

Create technology guidelines

Technology must be a core guideline in your budget planning. Integrating technology as a fundamental resource in your budget ensures that you'll be able to get the job done in the future.

Information needs are dynamic. If you relegate technology as a minor resource, you won't be able to meet future information demands.

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Technology Funding -- Where Can I get IT

2008-06-07T03:30:11Z

An important part of strategic technology planning is to find ways to fund the technology in the long term.

But funding technology initiatives will prove to be more costly in the future based on the movement towards technology reliance.

As a business owner or manager, you will be required to make tough decisions about how best to spend existing funds. Once you've decided on a budget, the next task is to decide where to seek funding.

Below are four areas that have the potential to fund your technology programs.

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Technology Funding goes to the Diligent

2008-06-07T03:30:10Z

At the beginning of a budget year, many directors have big plans for their programs. It's also likely that technology will be a big part of successfully executing those programs.

Below are three simple steps to ensure that you'll get the technology funding you need to meet your goals.

Before you begin

The first point to remember before you submit a technology funding proposal for your project is to have a plan. Writing a plan in response to a proposal only shows short-sightedness.

A technology plan is more that just a funding bargaining chip. A living technology plan allows you to get the technology you need without overspending and without getting the wrong technology.

Take a lesson from English class and be able to answer the "who", "what", "when", "where", and "why" questions. Be specific about your needs and the costs to meet those needs.

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Technology Funding -- Improving Your Prospects

2008-06-07T03:30:11Z

Technology is the backbone of any organization's ability to produce results. But, more often than not, technology funders see your mission as non relevant or, worse, boring.

Add to this mix these facts and getting program funding is near impossible:

Technology is often seen as voodoo. It can frighten tech neophytes.

It's hard to justify technology because it can't be tied directly to mission goals

It can be expensive. Very expensive for smaller organizations who just don't have the budget

Technology requires great care. Upgrades and refreshes are standard if you want to stay up to date.
So, how do you translate your passion into a concrete proposal that funders can support? Below are five ways you can improve your prospects for getting technology funding.

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Open Source Solutions -- Bridging the Technology Gap

2008-06-07T03:30:00Z

Imagine a situation where a highly educated computer programmer sits idle at a desk because his company can only afford software for one computer. Or think about a company that continues to lose highly trained IT personnel. Their reason for their leaving? They don't have access to the right hardware and software tools. These are prime examples of the technology gap that exists within companies.

Unfortunately, these two situations are all too common. Fortunately, open source applications are turning this situation around. Countries which once could not afford to create their own development infrastructures are getting the right tools and retaining their own personnel.

A company's success is no longer dependent solely on cost. With the aid of open source software, companies can focus on innovation and responding to rapidly changing customer needs.

Below are two examples of how open source solutions are bridging the technology gap.

Skilled Worker Retention

Companies who are not willing to invest in the latest worker technologies are in danger of losing top performers.

When companies fail to have an effective office technology strategy, workplace performance diminishes. That's when employees start looking for other jobs.

But companies can have an effective technology strategy that doesn't require significant capital expenditures—with open source tools. The key is to hire top level support, such as a CIO or CTO, who knows how to manage open source tools.

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The Silent Technology Gap

2008-06-07T03:30:00Z

you look around, you may suspect that most people have a reasonable level of technological knowledge. However, research has shown otherwise.

There are many people whose tech skills begin and end with starting a vehicle or turning on a stove. The reasons why are numerous but primarily include not having the financial means to buy a PC and a reluctance to learn about something completely unknown.

Determining if a technology gap exists is one question. But the more looming question is determining if this technology gap is a problem. Societies are moving quickly to invest in and upgrade their technology infrastructures. Governments are realizing that without the right technology, they won't be able to compete globally

In 2002, 10 countries contributed 86% of the total research and development money spent that year. For the remaining countries to only have contributed 14% to the technology research pie speaks volumes about how big the technology gap really is.

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