Palonek org

Foreclosures up fourfold since last year in Vermont

Edward Palonek — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:46:02 GMT

During this current heat wave, $4 billion will be spent to battle foreclosures according to a recent vote by Congress.

This will be of great assistance and will help neighborhoods that have been decimated by foreclosures by abandoned houses in Miami and Cleveland.

In Vermont last year you will find that foreclosures went up 4 times from 2 years prior and even rose again this year.

www.vpr.net

By the way I noticed a great web site recently called Foundmoney.net

and found some money for my friends.

Allied National High School Granted WASC Accreditation

Edward Palonek — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 08:04:58 GMT

Allied National High School Granted WASC Accreditation

Allied National High School has received regional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). This accreditation ensures that the school has been reviewed and critiqued to provide the highest-quality education to high school students, and that it is recognized regionally as a distinguished school. Allied National High School is also nationally accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC).

Laguna Hills, CA (PRWEB) February 15, 2007 -- Allied National High School has received interim accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) giving it the distinction of being an approved online high school that focuses on student learning and achievement.

An initial site visit was conducted at Allied National High School to determine if the school was eligible for accreditation. After a thorough review of the facility, staff, course materials, practices, and procedures, Allied National High School was granted an interim term of accreditation.

"This accreditation provides current and prospective students with the assurance that they are receiving an education from a quality school," said James Rieger, director of Allied National High School.

"Accreditation sets us apart from other schools. We offer students a quality education that prepares them for college and future careers."

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) is one of six regional accrediting associations in the United States. The Accrediting Commission for Schools extends its services to 3,500 schools from elementary schools to college preparatory high schools.

Allied National High School provides students with an education that is customized to meet their individual learning needs. The curriculum is taught in an online environment enabling them to study when and where they choose. The classes are easy to access online. Live student support is available to provide guidance and assistance to students during business hours. There is constant student/parent/teacher contact to ensure that students stay on track.

Allied National High School features:

National & regional accreditation
Personalized student support
College-prep classes
Highly-qualified teachers
Customized education

Additionally, Allied National High School is nationally accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). The Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally-recognized accrediting agency.

"It's a very exciting time for Allied National High School," said Rieger. "The national and regional accreditations ensure that we are worthy of the trust placed in us by our students and their parents and that we are continually striving to make our school better through increasing student performance and learning outcomes."

About Allied Schools
Allied Schools, Inc., established in 1992, is the nationwide leader when it comes to distance education. It has provided quality instruction to more than 750,000 students in the last 14 years. Students can enroll in a high school diploma program, or further their career with 25+ career training courses in the areas of real estate, medical and business. Over 50 educational support and student services staff members are on hand to assist students with all of their educational needs.

To learn more about Allied National High School, please visit www.alliedhighschool.com or call (888) 505-8541 to speak with an Admissions Representative.

Online Writing Club Helps with Publish or Perish Problem

Edward Palonek — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:06:19 GMT

Online Writing Club Helps with Publish or Perish Problem

Professors and grad students turn to Writing Club for help with dissertation writing, scholarly articles, and grant writing

McLean, Virginia (PRWEB) April 25, 2008 -- "Paula Turner" was feeling increasingly desperate as she entered her third year as a tenure-track professor. It seemed she spent all her time preparing for teaching, and she had not even published one article from her dissertation. Two months later she was able to write in her third-year review that she had submitted two articles for publication.

How was Paula finally able to buckle down and accomplish that writing? The Academic Writing Club was her secret weapon. The Writing Club is an online accountability tool created by Gina Hiatt, Ph.D., founder and president of Academic Ladder LLC. She created the Club for graduate students, post docs, and professors who are struggling to write regularly and productively as they work on their dissertations, proposals, articles and books.

"Although I started the Academic Writing Club with the intent of helping graduate students, it became more and more clear to me that having a Ph.D. doesn't mean that you have good writing habits," says Hiatt. "Professors struggle from their first year on the job with finding time for their long-term writing projects," she points out, "And often feel overwhelmed and frankly scared about their lack of progress towards publication."

The Academic Writing Club's innovative methodology addresses the key needs of support, accountability and interactivity with others. The online set of tools help dissertation writers and professors get over writing blocks and stop procrastinating. Club members have access to a unique website where they can log their writing progress daily, get feedback from academic writing coaches and other club members, and communicate via a message board. They are able to see the progress of others and read their comments. This shared experience increases writing productivity dramatically. They are shown ways to be less perfectionistic and to monitor the negative thoughts that stop them from being productive, and which lead to procrastination. There are separate online "rooms" graduate students and for professors. Participants are able to remain anonymous if they wish.

The Club is divided into groups of 10 - 15 people with separate groups for grad students and professors. A new popular feature in the Writing Club is a parent group for graduate students. Similar specialty groups will be added over time.

The coaches who run the Writing Clubs have seen many dissertations finished and articles published by participants, many of whom have stayed with the Writing Club for the full year and a half of its existence. In the past month alone, there were over eight successful dissertation defenses. Here are some typical comments from participants:

"This program ROCKS! The discipline PLUS the support is the best thing that has happened to me in a long time (career-wise)." -- Assistant Professor

"Being in this parents group has made me accepting of my parenting. I once APOLOGIZED to my advisor (when I had my first child) for being a mom in academia. I was so scatterbrained with hormonal changes and resented being torn or having to choose and sacrifice. I felt like someone had slurped up my brains, my life was taken up by little creature's rhythms…and I apologized. I now know that I can and will love all 'my children' equally…no apologies. For some reason as I turned in my paper I thought of that today and realized how far I'd come." -- Grad Student
"Wow - end of week 3. I can't tell you how much this writing group has helped my productivity. This was money very well spent." -- Grad Student

"The Academic Ladder Writing Club has been incredibly useful. Such a simple idea: write a little bit every day, tell the group your goals for tomorrow, and report on your progress. But almost magically, I got more writing done in 30 days than I had in the previous 60 or even 90. I don't think there's a better investment you can make in completing your degree." -- Ray W., 5th year Ph.D. Candidate, MIT

"I can see my work habits changing daily. For the first time EVER in my academic career I feel confident that I can not only live up to expectations but possibly even exceed them. (Immediate anxiety aside) work is fun". -- Assistant Professor

"This is my third time in this writing group and I don't think I'll ever leave. I'll probably need this type of support after my dissertation when I'm working towards tenure. Thanks Gina, Jayne and all my fellow club members." - Grad Student

"I actually managed to spend two more hours in the evening on my article, and just sent it to my editor (!)This feels really good. Thanks to the Writing Club! I don't think I would be so productive without it." -- Assistant Professor

Hiatt suggests, "The best gift you can give someone in academia is to tell them about the Academic Writing Club, the only low cost alternative to a writing or dissertation coach." The Academic Writing Club starts May 5 and runs through June 1. The fee is $60; only $50 if you sign up by May 2. For more information, go to AcademicWritingClub.com.

Grant Writing Boot Camp in Little Rock, Arkansas - August 7 & 8, 2008

Edward Palonek — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:28:37 GMT

Grant Writing Boot Camp in Little Rock, Arkansas - August 7 & 8, 2008

Spend two Adrenaline-filled days learning how to search for and write winning grant applications with Dr. Bev Browning, Author of Grant Writing For Dummies, Faith-Based Grants, Grant Writing For Educators, Winning Strategies, and Perfect Phrases for Writing Grant Proposals.

Little Rock, Ark. (PRWEB) July 21, 2008 -- Join the grant doctor for Grant Writing Boot Camp August 7 & 8 in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Learn how to speak and write grant language, conduct funding searches, and write sure to win grant applications. This course covers the essential grant seeking and grant writing strategies and skills required to successfully submit competitive corporate and foundation proposals, and state and federal grant applications for funding consideration. Emphasis is placed on researching and writing. Bring "real" project idea and supporting documentation and complete 95% of your proposal narrative onsite!

What to come prepared for this dynamic two-day training program? Bring a laptop computer (extra long surge protector cords available for multiple computer users). Bring project ideas and information on the applicant organization, the problem in need of solving, and best practices (ideas for the program design). Bring a co-worker and let Dr. Bev coach the "new" grant writing team! No team, no problem; I'll assign team members or independent work is allowed.

Registration of $595 per person includes continental breakfast, lunch (regular and vegetarian available), and afternoon beverages both days! The first 20 lucky registrants will have their names entered into a drawing for a new laptop computer valued at up to $1,200!

About Dr. Bev Browning, the Grant Guru:
Dr. Beverly A. Browning has been a grant writing consultant and contract bid specialist for units of municipal government and other nonprofit organizations for 25 years. She has assisted clients throughout the United States in receiving awards of more than $200 million.

Contact:
Dr. Bev Browning, Director
Grant Writing Training Foundation
480-768-7400
http://www.grantwritingbootcamp.us

###

Government Offers Government Grants and Loans to Women, Minorities and The Credit Impaired

Edward Palonek — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 07:43:49 GMT

Government Offers Government Grants and Loans to Women, Minorities and The Credit Impaired

New Cooperative Provides Economic Recovery

Washington, DC (PRWEB) July 13, 2004 -- If you are recently unemployed or credit problems are holding you back from starting a business, buying a home or new car, here is important news. Government and private lending institutions are now joining forces to stimulate the national economy and make it easier for women, minorities and people with poor credit ratings to get low interest loans.

President Bush also announced a breakthrough for Faith Based and Community Organizations. Policies have been lifted which prohibited them from receiving government funding based on religious affiliations. Churches and religious based community organizations can now compete on equal footing for available federal dollars.

Terry Newborn, a researcher for Government Publications in Washington, DC reported, "There are billions of dollars in grants and loans earmarked for people previously identified as credit risks. Public and private funds are now available for them to buy homes, cars, start a business, consolidate debts and any worthwhile purpose". In addition, he reported new financial resources have been committed to help the unemployed get job training and re-enter the job market.

"Now is the time for citizens to act if they need money for any worthwhile purpose," urged Newborn. He also revealed that several reduced-cost and even free programs now exist to benefit economically disadvantage and recently unemployed persons. Such programs include dental and vision care services, prescription plans and legal aid.

Government Publications offers a CD-Rom that provides the latest information on the above programs. It covers free grant and loan resources available for a wide variety of purposes, including business start-ups. President Bush declared, "The entrepreneurial spirit in America is healthy. It is a great strength of our country.

If you feel like you`ve got what it takes to start a business, if you want to go out on your own, you think you`ve got a good product, the country says, we welcome you to do so". This CD Rom includes start-up information on several home-based business opportunities. For example, How to Buy and Sell Foreclosed Properties, How to Start a Profitable Gift Basket Business and How to become a Loan Broker.

The CD Rom sells for $39.95. It also includes 50 successful grant applications that were funded. These sample applications are essential items since most denied loan and grant applications are due to improper or incomplete paperwork. For more information log on to: http://www.capitalpublications.com/secure_html/free_work_at_home.html http://press.arrivenet.com/government/article.php/625870.html http://www.marketwire.com/mw/release_html_b1?release_id=85269
http://www.marketwire.com/mw/release_html_b1?release_id=72368 http://www.scholarships-education.com , http://www.merchantamerica.com/governmentgrants/index.php?ba=view_category&category=5316 , http://press.arrivenet.com/industry/article.php/667666.html .

or call 800-306-0873 or 800-416-0712.

Government Publications
1025 Connecticut Ave NE Ste 1012
Washington DC 20036
Tele: 202-263-7340
Contact: Terry Newborn

Blackbaud NetCommunity for Foundations Streamlines Grant Applications and Enables Superior Donor Service with Integrated Web Tools

Edward Palonek — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:17:44 GMT

Blackbaud NetCommunity for Foundations Streamlines Grant Applications and Enables Superior Donor Service with Integrated Web Tools

Donor and grant portals unveiled to support community foundations’ increasing focus on web strategy.

Charleston, SC (Vocus/PRWEB ) June 3, 2008 -– Blackbaud, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLK announced the launch of Blackbaud® NetCommunity™ for foundations, which incorporates new online tools developed to meet the specific needs of community foundations. The enhanced functionality will enable community foundations to streamline the grant application process, provide an unparalleled level of service and accountability to donors, and ultimately make a greater impact on their communities and the nonprofits they serve.

Community foundations serve a sophisticated group of donors that expect the highest level of accountability and want to be actively involved in the allocation and usage of their contributions

“Our major donors will now be able to access real-time financial information in a secure and personalized setting. They will no longer need to contact our office and wait for us to print and mail the statement,” said Brian Lewis, program director for the Montana Community Foundation, which holds more than 550 endowed funds. “In addition, organizations and fund-seekers will be able to view and apply for funding opportunities online. The donor and grant portals will enable us to operate more efficiently and effectively.”

According to the Grantmaker’s Information Technology Survey and Report, a study conducted by the Council on Foundations and its Technology Affinity Group in 2007, foundations are facing a need for online grant applications and online donor services, database integration with other applications, and website expansion and maintenance.

The recent enhancements to Blackbaud NetCommunity were developed to address those issues and were built using its open Application Program Interface (API). “With the Blackbaud NetCommunity API, we can not only easily integrate GrantedGE for grant management, but also leverage it to build online tools that extend the power of the solution and provide the type of sophisticated functionality that has previously been reserved only for ‘for-profit’ organizations,” said Fred Armistead, senior vice president of products for Fusion Labs.

In its new configuration, Blackbaud NetCommunity for foundations provides donors, fund advisors and foundation staff with the ability to securely monitor financial information online, recommend grants to nonprofit organizations and other eligible recipients, allow grant-seekers to apply online, and eliminate the inefficient paper trail associated with the traditional grant application process.

Blackbaud’s solution for community foundations is the industry’s most comprehensive and tightly integrated solution for grant-making organizations. Comprised of The Financial Edge™ for financial management, The Raiser’s Edge® for donor management, and Blackbaud NetCommunity for foundations, more than 80 community foundations use components of, or the complete Blackbaud solution. Foundations can also include Fusion Labs’ GrantedGE for grant management to provide a complete back-office platform.

“Community foundations serve a sophisticated group of donors that expect the highest level of accountability and want to be actively involved in the allocation and usage of their contributions,” said Lou Attanasi, Blackbaud’s senior vice president of products. “Donors and fund advisors will now be empowered to access their giving history, allocate funds, define interests, and become more engaged in the giving process. Additionally, grant-seeking organizations can view grant opportunities and apply online, increasing efficiency for all involved.”

To learn more about Blackbaud NetCommunity for foundations and Blackbaud’s complete solution for community foundations, please visit, www.blackbaud.com/communityfoundations.

To view the 2007 Council on Foundations’ Grantmakers Information Technology Survey Report, visit www.cof.org/files/Documents/Research/Tech%20Survey/2007FullReport.pdf.

About Blackbaud
Blackbaud is the leading global provider of software and services designed specifically for nonprofit organizations, enabling them to improve operational efficiency, build strong relationships, and raise more money to support their missions. Approximately 19,000 organizations — including the American Red Cross, Dartmouth College, the WGBH Educational Foundation, Episcopal High School, Lincoln Center, Cancer Research UK, Special Olympics, and Arthritis Foundation — use one or more of Blackbaud products and services for fundraising, constituent relationship management, financial management, direct marketing, school administration, ticketing, business intelligence, website management, prospect research, consulting, and analytics. Since 1981, Blackbaud’s sole focus and expertise has been partnering with nonprofits and providing them the solutions they need to make a difference in their local communities and worldwide. Headquartered in the United States, Blackbaud also has operations in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. For more information, visit www.blackbaud.com.

Media Contact:

Melanie Milonas
Blackbaud, Inc.
melanie.milonas@blackbaud.com
843.216.6200 x3307

Source: Blackbaud

Forward-looking Statements
Except for historical information, all of the statements, expectations, and assumptions contained in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Although Blackbaud attempts to be accurate in making these forward-looking statements, it is possible that future circumstances might differ from the assumptions on which such statements are based. In addition, other important factors that could cause results to differ materially include the following: management of integration of recently acquired companies and other risks associated with acquisitions; risk associated with successful implementation of multiple integrated software products; lengthy sales and implementation cycles, particularly in larger organizations; uncertainty regarding increased business and renewals from existing customers; continued success in sales growth; the ability to attract and retain key personnel; risks related to our dividend policy and share repurchase program, including potential limitations on our ability to grow and the possibility that we might discontinue payment of dividends; risks relating to restrictions imposed by the credit facility; risks associated with management of growth; technological changes that make our products and services less competitive; and the other risk factors set forth from time to time in the SEC filings for Blackbaud, copies of which are available free of charge at the SEC’s websites at www.sec.gov or upon request from Blackbaud's investor relations department.

All Blackbaud product names appearing herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Blackbaud, Inc.

Children of America Exhibits at the International Council of Shopping Centers’ Global Retail Real Estate Convention

Edward Palonek — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 10:32:09 GMT

Children of America Exhibits at the International Council of Shopping Centers’ Global Retail Real Estate Convention

Quality Childcare Provider Launches Educational Radio Podcasts on Web Site

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. (Business Wire EON) June 19, 2008 -- World Wide Child Care Corp. (Pink Sheets:WWCC) subsidiary Children of America’s real estate department recently participated in the Global Retail Real Estate Convention in Las Vegas hosted by the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). The annual convention is the world’s largest professional real estate event.

Everyone we met at the ICSC convention was impressed with what Children of America has to offer as shopping center owners and developers realize the value that a leading childcare center brings to their sites

As part of Children of America’s strategic growth initiative to establish cooperative partnerships with the real estate industry’s top shopping centers, the team met with more than 100 representatives to discuss 150 new properties.

“Everyone we met at the ICSC convention was impressed with what Children of America has to offer as shopping center owners and developers realize the value that a leading childcare center brings to their sites,” said Thad Pryor, president and CEO. “Just as we are partners with parents in creating an environment rich in love and learning, we are also aligning ourselves with dedicated real estate professionals to open our centers in the best, safest locations possible. We have developed an aggressive expansion plan that will nearly triple the number of our locations by the end of 2009.”

Children of America currently operates 16 childcare facilities in Pennsylvania and Virginia and is slated to open nine additional centers in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania by the end of the year. The company has signed 40 leases over the past year and anticipates signing 50 additional leases slated for execution in 2009 that will launch the opening of several new markets including Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio and Wisconsin.

To view photos please click on the following link: www.childrenofamerica.com/Photo_Gallery/ICSC2008/gallery.html.

In other news, Children of America announces the launch of monthly radio programming produced by BAM Radio Network (BRN), a joint project of Moving & Learning and Jackstreet Media, available for parents, childcare advocates and the general public to download via podcast on its Web site at www.childrenofamerica.com/parents.cfm.

The radio programming will feature the Body, Mind and Child series hosted by Rae Pica, an early childhood expert with 30 years of experience in the field, and co-hosted by various childhood experts and children’s advocates.

Topics covered in the 8- to 10-minute podcasts include childhood education, a child’s physical and mental development, parenting tips and styles and more.

About Children of America

Founded in 1999, Florida-based Children of America is a leading provider of high-quality childcare and after-school programs with 16 centers in Pennsylvania and Virginia and more than 500 employees. An industry pioneer, Children of America’s curriculums are developed to accommodate key age ranges and include innovative teaching methods such as “Tray Tasking,” a learning tool proven to promote early reading and writing skills. Children of America is a subsidiary of World Wide Child Care Corp. (WWCC), formerly known as International Child Care Corp. (ICCR). For more information about Children of America, franchising and other business opportunities visit the Web site at www.childrenofamerica.com.

Chase Announces Additional $1.3 Million Grant to Financial Literacy Organizations

Edward Palonek — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:36:33 GMT

Chase Announces Additional $1.3 Million Grant to Financial Literacy Organizations

Financial Grants Empower Individuals to Take Control in Today’s Uncertain Economic Times

WILMINGTON, Del. (Business Wire EON) March 10, 2008 -- Chase Card Services, the credit card division of JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM), is donating an additional $1.3 million through its Financial Literacy Grant Program to organizations across the country to help more Americans understand and take control of their finances during today’s uncertain economy.

Fortunately, there are a variety of qualified organizations to provide assistance, and our Financial Literacy Grant Program is intended to improve awareness of those resources. We hope these grants will help people across the country get the information they need to increase their financial literacy, improve their financial situations and, as a result, their overall economic stability.

“Knowing how to manage your finances is an important skill throughout your life, but especially during times of economic uncertainty,” said Jeff Courtney, senior vice president, Customer Support Division, Chase Card Services. “Fortunately, there are a variety of qualified organizations to provide assistance, and our Financial Literacy Grant Program is intended to improve awareness of those resources. We hope these grants will help people across the country get the information they need to increase their financial literacy, improve their financial situations and, as a result, their overall economic stability.”

According to a recent survey by Freddie Mac and Roper Public Affairs and Media, 57 percent of late-paying borrowers still do not know lenders may offer workout options to help avoid foreclosure. However, borrower confusion is not limited to mortgages, but can extend across the financial industry.

“We are grateful for Chase's commitment to financial literacy through their Financial Literacy Grant Program,” said Susan C. Keating, president and CEO of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC). “By supporting NFCC Member Agencies across the country, these grants will directly help the many consumers who are in need of quality financial education and counseling services.”

Chase’s Financial Literacy Grant Program, now in its third year, gives consumers greater access to information, credit counseling services and the support resources that they need to take control of their finances and improve their financial health and stability. With its donation this year, Chase has provided $3.9 million in the past three years to more than 90 organizations. The nationwide program is part of the ongoing commitment by Chase to support financial education and literacy for people of all ages, so they can keep their finances in check while pursuing what really matters in their lives.

This year’s grants will be sent to more than 30 organizations, including credit counseling agencies and consumer financial research groups. Chase grant recipients, such as the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Buffalo, Inc., the Young Women’s Christian Association in El Paso, TX, and the Consumer Credit and Budgeting Counseling in Marmora, NJ, will use the grants directly for consumer education, community outreach and awareness programs, and for conducting research to design more effective financial literacy programs. There are also grant recipients like Take Charge America in Phoenix, AZ, a program that provides basic financial and budgeting education to high school students.

Each grant recipient is selected based on criteria that distinguish them among qualified credit counseling agencies that are providing valuable service and education to consumers both within their communities and throughout the country.

Chase Offers Long-term Support to Financial Literacy and Smart Credit Use

In addition to the Financial Literacy Grant Program and other financial literacy contributions, Chase offers a variety of resources for consumers on its Chase Clear & Simple Web site (www.chaseclearandsimple.com) to help them better manage their personal finances and use credit wisely. For customers, Chase provides a number of tools, policies and account management options to help customers gain greater control of their accounts, avoid fees and maintain their best interest rates, including:

Clear pricing practices: Chase will not increase interest rates for cardholders solely based on credit-bureau information.
Over-limit Controls: Customers can protect their accounts against over-limit fees by adding customized "controls" to their accounts that contain their spending within their credit limit.
Customized Payment Due Date: Chase customers can select their own payment due date, choosing the date that is most convenient for them
Free Account Alerts: To help customers avoid fees, Chase will send free reminders by e-mail, telephone or text message when a payment due date is approaching or when spending is nearing a credit limit.

Consumer Tips for Dealing with Financial Stress

Chase encourages consumers who are experiencing financial stress to reach out to their creditors or a certified credit counselor for solutions. The NFCC offers some basic tips to help customers avoid and better manage their debt:

Track your expenses. To find money available for savings, first determine where you are currently spending your money. Write down every cent you spend. At the end of the month, take a look at where your hard-earned cash really goes.
Create a budget and customize it to fit your lifestyle. A well-designed spending plan considers all sources of income, living expenses, debt obligations, and savings. Be sure to incorporate all three expense categories - fixed expenses (e.g., mortgage, auto loans and rent), variable expenses (e.g., credit cards, groceries, entertainment, clothes and gasoline) and periodic expenses (e.g., property taxes, home repair, and car maintenance).
DON'T start charging when there is no money. If you have no money left after paying your bills, you may be headed for trouble. It is not a good idea to routinely rely on your credit card to pay for living expenses when you don't have the cash available. As a general rule, you should not be spending more than 20 percent of your take-home income on credit card bills or loans, and this includes your car payment.

DON’T apply for new credit cards simply because you’ve reached the credit limit on existing cards. When your cards are taken to the limit, it is time to pay off the balance and adjust your spending habits – not apply for more cards.
DO make more than the minimum credit card payment. The NFCC recommends paying at least double the minimum required payment.
DO reduce expenses wherever possible. Look for no or low-cost entertainment and cut back on other day-to-day spending. Small reductions in daily spending quickly add up to big savings. Trimming $5 from your daily expenses adds up to more than $1,800 over the course of a year!
DO work with your creditors. If you encounter any problems repaying your debts, contact the creditor immediately and explain the situation. Creditors often will work with you to come up with an alternate payment arrangement.
Get to know your credit report better. Dedicate spring cleaning time as the annual time to review your credit report, which you can get for free at www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling (877) 322-8228. A credit report contains information about your credit and loan history, including amounts and payment history and is used extensively by potential lenders to evaluate your credit worthiness. Read each report carefully as there may be discrepancies between the three credit bureaus. If you find errors, file a dispute with the credit bureau.
DO seek help from a credit counselor. If you have been unable to resolve your finances on your own, consider working with an NFCC certified credit counselor to create a plan you can live with, one that helps you budget your money and repay your debt. An NFCC member agency can customize a spending plan that fits your lifestyle. Contact an NFCC member agency near you, call 1-800-388-2227, or log onto www.nfcc.org.

As a leader in the financial community, Chase offers customers what matters most to their financial well-being. Chase pledges advocacy, access, protection, recognition, and value for its customers’ financial needs.

About JPMorgan Chase & Co.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) is a leading global financial services firm with assets of $1.6 trillion and operations in more than 60 countries. The firm is a leader in investment banking, financial services for consumers, small business and commercial banking, financial transaction processing, asset management, and private equity. A component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, JPMorgan Chase serves millions of consumers and businesses in the United States and many of the world’s most prominent corporate, institutional and government clients under its JPMorgan and Chase brands. Information about the firm is available at www.jpmorganchase.com.

**Please see the following addendum for 2008 grant recipients.

Addendum A – Chase Card Services 2008 Financial Literacy Grant Recipients

-- Auriton Solutions of Roseville, MN

-- Family Counseling Center of Brevard of Melbourne, FL

-- CCCS of Buffalo, Inc. of West Seneca, NY

-- LifeSpan, Inc. of Hamilton, OH

-- Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota of Duluth, MN

-- Family Service Association of Greater Elgin Area of Elgin, IL

-- Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA Area, Inc. of Huntington, WV

-- Cumberland Community Action Program, Inc. of Fayetteville, NC

-- CCCS of Forsyth County, Inc. of Winston-Salem, NC

-- CCCS of Greater Dallas of Dallas, TX

-- CCCS of New Orleans of New Orleans, LA

-- CCCS of Greater San Antonio of San Antonio, TX

-- Family Foundations of Northeast Florida, Inc. of Jacksonville, FL

-- By Design Financial Solutions of Los Angeles, CA

-- Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota of Sioux Falls, SD

-- CCCS of Mid-Florida of Ocala, FL

-- Aurora Family Service of Milwaukee, WI

-- CCCS of Northeastern Iowa of Waterloo, IA

-- CCCS of Northeastern Pennsylvania of Pittson, PA

-- Family Counseling Service of Northern Nevada of Reno, NV

-- Credit Counseling Centers of OK, Inc. of Tulsa, OK

-- CCCS of Springfield of Springfield, MO

-- Graceworks Lutheran Services of Dayton, OH

-- CCCS of the North Coast of Arcata, CA

-- Young Women's Christian Assoc. of El Paso, TX

-- Housing and Credit Counseling, Inc. of Topeka, KS

-- Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Western North Carolina

-- Consumer Credit And Budget Counseling of Marmora, NJ

-- GreenPath, Inc. of Farmington, MI

-- Take Charge America of Phoenix, AZ

-- Debt Counseling Corp of Hauppauge, NY

-- Garden State Consumer Credit Counseling, Inc. of Freehold, NJ

-- The Village Family Service Center of Fargo, ND

-- Delaware Financial Literacy Institute of Claymont, DE

-- Professor Michael E. Staten, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ

Hopes and Cures blog launches with broad support

Edward Palonek — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 08:29:02 GMT

Hopes and Cures blog launches with broad support

WASHINGTON (Business Wire EON) March 11, 2008 -- The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), along with patient groups, scientists, university researchers, policymakers and others, has launched a new blog, Hopes and Cures (www.hopesandcures.org), to focus on restoring the eligibility of small companies for federal grants that support research for life-threatening illnesses. This community-focused blog provides a forum for discussing current legislative initiatives and what a change in the funding rules would mean for the patient community.

There is a broad community of patient advocates, researchers, policy makers and companies who are all passionate about supporting a change in SBIR eligibility to allow companies that receive majority venture capital funding to qualify for these prestigious federal grants

“There is a broad community of patient advocates, researchers, policy makers and companies who are all passionate about supporting a change in SBIR eligibility to allow companies that receive majority venture capital funding to qualify for these prestigious federal grants,” said lead blogger, Cartier Esham, Director of Health and Regulatory Affairs for BIO’s Emerging Companies. “It is our hope that this blog can help galvanize these disparate groups to advocate for changes that will benefit patients and the broader public.”

The Federal Government helps small businesses through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, by setting aside a specific percentage of all federal research and development money for applicants focusing their work on cutting edge research. However, in 2003, the Small Business Administration (SBA) added another provision, that small businesses not receive more that 51 percent of their funds from venture capital sources. As a result, many companies with promising treatments are no longer eligible for these grants and must seek other sources to fund their research efforts.

“From a patient perspective it does not seem logical, and is in fact scary, that we are eliminating from eligibility research projects that otherwise merit funding, simply because of the financial structure of the company. For people living with Parkinson’s and many other diseases that need better treatments and cures, SBIR is an essential program that provides key funding for patient-oriented research. We are fearful that keeping the eligibility ruling as it now stands will prevent promising research from going forward. In fact, who knows what promising therapies are sitting now, unfunded and not moving?” said Amy Rick of the Parkinson’s Action Network.

Hopes and Cures will provide a forum for patients and others to discuss federal rules for biotechnology research and how they believe funding could best be used.

About BIO

Founded in 1993, BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and 31 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of health-care, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products.

European High Temperature Superconductors (EHTS) Receives Research Grant from German Government for Advanced Copper-HTS Conductors

Edward Palonek — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 11:59:20 GMT

European High Temperature Superconductors (EHTS) Receives Research Grant from German Government for Advanced Copper-HTS Conductors

HANAU, Germany (Business Wire EON) June 12, 2008 -- European High Temperature Superconductors GmbH & Co. KG (EHTS), a division of Bruker Corporation’s Advanced Supercon business, announced this week that the German Federal Ministry of Commerce and Technology (BMWi) has approved a grant for a joint $3.0 million research project with Adelwitz Technologiezentrum (ATZ) in Arzberg, Germany. The three-year project for the development of advanced commercial superconductors is based on EHTS’ proprietary second generation YBCO wire technologies. EHTS expects to be reimbursed about $0.74 million (€0.48 million) under the grant for its approximately $1.5 million share of the overall project budget.

Our 2G Copper-HTS hybrid conductor has world-leading electro-mechanical properties. We are very pleased and delighted to receive this grant, together with ATZ, for the further development of commercial conductors and production processes. It is a confirmation of our technology development program and the successful cooperation with ATZ.

The funding to EHTS and ATZ has been granted within the framework of the German government’s technology initiative to meet the national and European goals for significant reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions by the year 2020. High temperature superconductors (HTS) transport electricity virtually without losses, thus reducing energy consumption across many technology areas. Large machines and equipment used for propulsion, power generation, transmission and power grid protection are ideal applications for HTS conductors, allowing these devices to be smaller and more energy efficient.

The project partners will develop advanced copper-HTS hybrid superconductors that can operate reliably under a wide range of demanding conditions and provide unprecedented protection under mechanical stresses and electrical fault conditions. The cooperation between EHTS and ATZ, which has been ongoing since 2005, has achieved several milestones in the development of advanced 2G conductors with copper shunts, including conductors that carry current upwards of 500 Amperes per cm width.

“EHTS has outstanding research expertise in the development and manufacturing scale-up of 1G and 2G high-temperature superconductors,” said Dr. Burkhard Prause, Managing Director of EHTS. “Our 2G Copper-HTS hybrid conductor has world-leading electro-mechanical properties. We are very pleased and delighted to receive this grant, together with ATZ, for the further development of commercial conductors and production processes. It is a confirmation of our technology development program and the successful cooperation with ATZ.”

About EHTS/Advanced Supercon:

European High Temperature Superconductors GmbH & Co. KG is based in Alzenau, Germany and is part of the Advanced Supercon business of Bruker Corporation (NASDAQ: BRKR). In addition to EHTS, the Advanced Supercon business also includes European Advanced Superconductors (EAS) in Germany, Hydrostatic Extrusions Limited in Scotland, and Advanced Supercon, Inc. in the United States. EHTS is a leading manufacturer of HTS materials and devices, based on its broad HTS technology platform. EHTS solutions enhance the reliability and efficiency of electrical power grids and large energy demanding applications. Its proprietary SuperFast™ superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) concept has the potential to enhance power grid reliability, and its HTS current lead products dramatically reduce electrical losses in large industrial and research magnets. Conductors and components made by EHTS are being used to build a new generation of compact high power devices such as HTS motors, generators, cables and transformers as well as high field magnets for medical and research applications. For more information: www.bruker-ehts.com

About ATZ: Founded in 1992, Adelwitz Technologiezentrum GmbH (ATZ) is a technology company offering a wide spectrum of High-Tc superconducting materials and innovative components. The company’s business is based on HTS powder, bulk and target materials, as well as components and solutions for magnetic bearings and systems, flywheels, power engineering, periphery for conductor development and cryostats. ATZ’s HTS products address today’s energy conservation challenges. One core technology is HTS magnetic bearings up to ton loads, as it is presently assembled in a 10 kW /280 kW flywheel. ATZ’s technologies are protected by intellectual property ranging from bulk materials up to surface copper plating on HTS wires and tapes. For more information: www.atz-gmbh.com

Wealth Building Academy Signs Contract to Facilitate Two-Day Training Program

Edward Palonek — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 08:36:29 GMT

Wealth Building Academy Signs Contract to Facilitate Two-Day Training Program

The Wealth Building Academy has signed an annual contract to host and facilitate a monthly two-day, grant-training and wealth-building program at the newly developed National Harbor Hampton Inn & Suites in Oxon Hill, Md. The first training is slated for May 16-17.

Washington, D.C. (PRWE April 29, 2008 – The Wealth Building Academy has signed an annual contract to host and facilitate a monthly two-day, grant-training and wealth-building program at the newly developed National Harbor Hampton Inn & Suites in Oxon Hill, Md. The facility is in a resort-style setting adjacent to the Gaylord National Harbor Entertainment Complex.

Paul Lawrence Vann

Now, more than ever, businesses in the metropolitan Washington, D.C.-area and southern Maryland need world-class facilities to host top-notch training in a fun environment for people who want to learn how to obtain free grant money and learn wealth-building strategies. The National Harbor Hampton Inn & Suites fits the bill

The first Wealth Building Academy training, 'How To Obtain Free Grant Money,' is scheduled for May 16-17. This training is sponsored by Laurel Wreath Communications Incorporated, a training-, seminar-, consulting-, publishing-, and information-products company.

"Now, more than ever, businesses in the metropolitan Washington, D.C.-area and southern Maryland need world-class facilities to host top-notch training in a fun environment for people who want to learn how to obtain free grant money and learn wealth-building strategies. The National Harbor Hampton Inn & Suites fits the bill," said Paul Lawrence Vann, CEO of the Wealthy Building Academy.

Wealth Building Academy staff will facilitate monthly trainings such as, 'How To Obtain Free Grant Money,' and other wealth-building programs. Attendees will learn content-rich fundamentals of obtaining grants, while learning strategies to increase their wealth and apply it to their real-life ideas, projects, and programs.

Throughout the two-day grant training, attendees will have the opportunity to meet with Vann and Wealth Building Academy staff for one-on-one consultations. The consultations will assist attendees with the establishment of a vision for their 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization, and the creation of mission statements, business plans and marketing plans – as well as how organizations can partner with other nonprofits. Each attendee will be teamed with others to simulate a response to a draft request for proposal.

"Given the current state of the economy, record foreclosures, rising energy prices, and the spike in food prices, now is a perfect time for people to establish a nonprofit," Vann said. "The stars are perfectly aligned for people to assist others experiencing scarcity challenges. Establishing, leading, and managing a nonprofit is an excellent avenue for improving one's life while strengthening the community."

With more than $450 billion of free grant money being awarded to nonprofits every year, it's not surprising to see why people are enrolling in a unique step-by-step proprietary program such as 'How To Obtain Free Grant Money,' Vann said.

About Paul Lawrence Vann
Vann earned a master's degree in contracts and acquisition from the Florida Institute of Technology. The National Contract Management Association awarded him a professional designation in contract management, and he has more than 20 years of contract management and grants experience, having lead and managed contracts and grants exceeding more than $3.6 billion for the U.S. government.

Registration and information about, 'How To Obtain Free Grant Money' training, scheduled for May 16-17, can be found at http://pvann.blogspot.com or www.paullawrencevann.com, or by calling (800) 476-8976.

Contact:
Paul Lawrence Vann
Wealth Building Academy
(800) 476-8976
http://pvann.blogspot.com

GAEA Technologies annouces Educational Grant Program

Edward Palonek — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 07:44:19 GMT

GAEA Technologies annouces Educational Grant Program

GAEA is pleased to announce the launch of our Educational Grant Program. The Educational Grant Program offers universities and colleges free licenses of our industry leading software solutions programs for teaching purposes. The purpose of the grants is to provide universities and colleges with state-of-the-art technology to be used as a tool to improve academic achievement and understanding. This grant program is available to universities and colleges worldwide that wish to use the programs in their educational curriculums.

(PRWEB) July 19, 2006 -- GAEA is pleased to announce the launch of our Educational Grant Program. The Educational Grant Program offers universities and colleges free licenses of our industry leading software solutions: WinLoG, WinFence, WinSieve, Pocket ESA, and Rapid Geotechnical Reporting programs for teaching purposes.

The purpose of the grants is to provide universities and colleges with state-of-the-art technology to be used as a tool to improve academic achievement and understanding. This grant program is available to universities and colleges worldwide that wish to use the programs in their educational curriculums.

Since 1994, GAEA has been actively developing and distributing software applications that make our customers more efficient and effective. At GAEA we have always put our customers needs and requirements first, which is why we now have over 1600 customers in over 80 countries.

Program Terms

Educational institutions must identify a staff member as the single point of contact with us and all communications will go through this person.

We would like you to do a joint press release announcing your involvement with the grant.

The software may only be used as a learning and teaching aid for undergraduate and graduate courses.

The software may not be used for any personal or private consulting, training or teaching nor for the purposes of generating profit for the university or any individual.

The software licenses are not transferable.

Use of the software must be according to the terms of the Software License Agreement.

Grant Application

To apply for a grant online, visit GAEA's web site at http://www.gaea.ca. The grant applications will be reviewed and awarded immediately upon approval.

###

Academy of Art University Wins Eminent AIGA Enrichment Scholarship

Edward Palonek — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 09:35:17 GMT

Academy of Art University Wins Eminent AIGA Enrichment Scholarship

Top Design School Graduate Granted Art Scholarship

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) June 10, 2008 -- Known for being dynamic leaders in the world of graphic design, Academy of Art University students have been named winners of the prominent AIGA SF Enrichment Scholarship five times since 2000. More impressive is the fact that Academy students have secured this top spot for the last three years in a row, with this year being no different. Proud of the caliber of artists trained, the graphic design school is pleased to announce that this year's high honor was awarded to recent graduate, Sumila Mehta.

Hailing from Bombay, India, Sumila moved to the colorful city of San Francisco in August of 2003. With a desire to deepen her studies in art and experience "life on the other side," she chose to pack up her belongings and head west to California and to the Academy.

put your mind and soul into whatever it is you find you love.

"It was the work that came out of this university that really made me come here. All the classes that are offered in the Graphic Design program seemed intense and it constituted exactly what I was looking for," shared Sumila.

With a passion for photography and the constant urge she felt to create design within her photography, Sumila chose to pursue a BFA degree in graphic design. Knowing that the course would be challenging, Sumila followed her dream with steadfast dedication, hard work, and hopeful optimism.

"I am very grateful for all the teachers that taught me through the whole process. I found a mentor in both Mary Scott and Ed O'Brien. The knowledge I gained from them will always remain with me no matter where I go."

Her mentors' influence was definitely apparent these last two months when not only did she clench the impressive $3,000 American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) award, having been selected for excellence in her work and her strong academic achievement, but also garnered the Hallmark Award for Design Excellence at the 2008 Spring Show, and end of the year student art show.

"The Spring Show was an amazing experience as we got to talk about our work and get feedback from designers working in the industry. It made the education as real as it can get," commented Sumila on her experience participating in the Spring Show.

Drawing on her real life experiences and inspired by the work of Paul Rand and Mahatma Gandhi, Sumila created her senior portfolio with the intention of communicating a visual language that could be understood across the world all the way from the East to the West and back. Fortunately for her, the West understood her perfectly: she just recently accepted a job as Junior Designer at the San Francisco design firm, Hybrid Design, where she will be working side-by-side with her mentor, Ed O'Brien.

A radiant future shines ahead for Sumila, who encourages aspiring artists to "put your mind and soul into whatever it is you find you love."

About Academy of Art University, San Francisco
With nearly 12,000 students, Academy of Art University is the nation's largest private art and design university. Established in 1929, the school offers accredited AA, BFA, M.Arch and MFA programs, as well as continuing art education in thirteen areas of art and design: Advertising, Animation/Visual Effects, Architecture, Computer Arts/New Media, Digital Arts/Communications, Fashion, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture and Design, Motion Pictures and Television, and Photography. Students can also enroll in a flexible online degree program in art and design.

Academy of Art University is an accredited member of WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges), NASAD, Council for Interior Design Accreditation (BFA-IAD) and NAAB (M-ARCH).

For more information visit www.academyart.edu or call 1-800-544-2787.

Small Business Resource Announces New £4 million Small Business Government Grant

Edward Palonek — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 08:08:11 GMT

Small Business Resource Announces New £4 million Small Business Government Grant

Small Business Resource, providing small business ideas, small business financing and small business marketing for entrepreneurs is taking grant applications from small to mid size UK businesses from 2nd January 2007.

(PRWEB) January 2, 2007 -- Small Business Resource, providing small business ideas, small business financing and small business marketing for entrepreneurs is taking grant applications from small to mid size UK businesses from 2nd January 2007.

Small Business Resource announces new government grant specifically for training as distinct from grants for startups and grants for business development. These are difficult to get grants and applications must be supported by robust business plans. Training grants on the other hand are less onerous but are also difficult to track down. Applicants must be an established small business or a start up ready to get going. Grant applications can be found at small business resource, Ideas and Financing web site: http://www.2-small-business.com

Explains David Davis, CEO for Small Business Resource, "the major drawback for small businesses in 2007 will be finding cash to finance training and given that 35% of small businesses in the UK agree that training on market research and technology is vital for moving ahead in 2007, support in this area will be a much welcome New Year tonic."

Small Business Resource provides information of government grant providers including comprehensive small business grant information as published by the minister responsible for overseeing grants. Full information is found at: http://www.2-small-business.com/small_business_resources.shtml and http://www.2-small-business.com/small_business_grant.shtml.

Explains David Davis, "I've worked over Christmas to have the grant application form in place and ready for 2nd January 2007, when business restarts following the Christmas break. There's a £4 million fund and I've arranged for my clients and other small to mid size businesses to apply for a share. It will be on a first come fist serve basis."

Small Business Resource is a genuine small business. Visitors and subscribers to its web site get a free newsletter and they take advantage of free resources, small business ideas, and small business financing information.

"The aim of Small Business Resource is to champion small businesses and I'm excited about 2007. This government grant is just the start, in the coming months small businesses will be able to take advantage of our unique management software and make more money from investing in our home business secret opportunity and our training and development workshops for businesses with sales of £2 million plus", says David Davis.

If you own a start up business that is ready to go or an established small business get your government training grant now from Small Business Resource: http://www.2-small-business.com while funds last.

GrantGopher.com Launches Free Available Grant Database to Connect Nonprofits with Funding Resources

Edward Palonek — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 08:12:06 GMT

GrantGopher.com Launches Free Available Grant Database to Connect Nonprofits with Funding Resources

GrantGopher.com announces the launch of the nation's first free available grant database, cataloging newly released grant announcements across all funding areas.

Bakersfield, CA (PRWEB) May 27, 2008 -- In a world filled with grant scam websites and outdated, static research databases, GrantGopher.com proudly announces the launch of its free grant search database. The information is updated daily, with newly announced grant programs entered and expired announcements removed.

Users can create a free account which includes a customizable home page, grant writing and fundraising information, in addition to the database. "We are so proud to offer this resource to everyone searching for grants. This is long overdue," said Rachel Unell, CEO and developer of GrantGopher.com. "Our visitors can be confident that they are receiving up-to-date information and notification of grant programs they might not have known about otherwise."

We are so proud to offer this resource to everyone searching for grants. This is long overdue

This service is offered to anyone interested in finding grant funding. While there are fewer grants available for individuals or small businesses, GrantGopher.com does incorporate them in the database. Grant awards range from $300 into the millions, and are included from every source available, including community, family, and corporate foundations, as well as departments of local, county, state and federal government agencies.

Visitors are welcome to go to grantgopher.com and conduct a preliminary search for available grants.

About: Grant Gopher is a division of Accounting For Success, Inc. Founded in 1998, the company provides free and fee-based consulting and accounting services to nonprofits, small businesses and individuals.

$3.2 Trillion in Federal Grants Disbursed to States and Localities by 2013

Edward Palonek — Tue, 27 May 2008 07:53:43 GMT

$3.2 Trillion in Federal Grants Disbursed to States and Localities by 2013

$466.6 billion in grant funding will be disbursed in 2008 alone

Reston, VA (Vocus/PRWEB ) May 20, 2008 -– According to a report recently released by INPUT, the authority on government business, it is anticipated that a cumulative total of $3.2 trillion will be disbursed to states and localities via federal grants between 2008 and 2013, with $466.6 billion being disbursed in 2008 alone. Long-standing grant programs and eventual economic stimulus for state and local governments will drive $134.3 billion of growth in federal grants to state and local governments between 2008 and 2013, with total grant awards reaching $600.9 billion annually. Assuming that a modest 1% of this grant funding underwrites state and local information technology (IT) spending, the grant-driven market for government IT vendors will amount to $31.7 billion over the forecast period. During the last recession (2001-03), grant programs were the primary channel for federal fiscal stimulus to state and local governments in budget crises.

Federal grant funding is a significant indicator of program areas that are important to Congress, but it is not a directly addressable market for vendors

"Vendors should not be daunted by the current administrations stingy grant-funding projections," said Chris Dixon, manager, state and local industry analysis for INPUT. "The next President and Congress will be free to revise figures as they see fit and will certainly do so. INPUT expects some sort of grant-based federal fiscal stimulus for the states in the 2009-10 timeframe. The ‘Education, ‘Income Security, ‘Veterans Benefits and Services, and ‘General Government functions are the likely channels for such aid."

The report focuses on the 16 grant funds that have the greatest potential to underwrite or spur IT spending at the state and local levels. While few state and local grants are dedicated specifically to IT, more than $1 billion in such grants are indentified within the report. Also included are numerous links to additional information from granting agencies as well as some rules of thumb” as to how vendors can best incorporate federal grants into their state and local business development (BD) strategies.

"Federal grant funding is a significant indicator of program areas that are important to Congress, but it is not a directly addressable market for vendors," said Dixon. "Therefore, while grant funds can point to fruitful areas in which to do business, vendors should not consider going after federal grants to state and local governments as though its going to be ‘easy money. For the most part, you still have to build relationships and lay the groundwork for an opportunity in the usual way, regardless of the ultimate funding source."

The report explains the four ways in which federal grants funds underwrite state and local IT spending, providing vendors with some ideas as to how they can incorporate grant funds into their BD strategies. For example, grant-funded programs must be managed and most grants allow for some percentage of administrative overhead (including management information systems) to be taken out of the grant funds themselves. A few grants are entirely dedicated to such administrative costs.

INPUTs $3.2 Trillion in Federal Grants Will Underwrite Major State & Local IT Spending Between 2008 and 2013 Industry Insight report is available on INPUTs website at http://www.input.com/corp/library/detail.cfm?ItemID=4632.

EDITORS NOTE: For access to the full report or an interview with the report author, please contact Helena Brito at hbrito@input.com or 703-707-4161.

About INPUT
INPUT is the authority on government business. Established in 1974, INPUT helps companies develop federal, state, and local government business and helps public sector organizations achieve their objectives. Over 1,300 members, including small specialized companies, new entrants to the public sector, and the largest government contractors and agencies, rely on INPUT for the latest and most comprehensive procurement and market information, consulting, powerful sales management tools, and educational & networking events. For more information about INPUT, visit www.input.com or call 703-707-3500.

Media Contact:
Helena Brito
hbrito@input.com
703-707-4161

Miracle Recreation Equipment Company Announces Miracle’s Grants for America’s Schools Program

Edward Palonek — Fri, 23 May 2008 08:08:02 GMT

Miracle Recreation Equipment Company Announces Miracle’s Grants for America’s Schools Program

Miracle Grants for America’s Schools Offers up to Five Million Dollars in Grant Money to Help Fund Commercial Play Systems for Schools in the United States to Encourage Physical, Social and Cognitive Development

MONETT, Mo. (Business Wire EON) May 16, 2008 -- Miracle Recreation Equipment Company announced today the Miracle’s Grants for America’s Schools Program. Miracle will award up to Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000) in grant money to help schools fund the purchase of Miracle commercial play and recreation equipment to help children learn through physical, social, and cognitive development.

The Grants for America's Schools Program is an exciting, new grant program only offered by Miracle

In continuation of Miracle’s focus on child development through free and healthy play, the Miracle’s Grants for America’s Schools Program will help fund the construction of over 1200 playgrounds throughout the United States benefiting over 60,000 children.

Free play, which children experience through playing on playgrounds, is a critical factor to children’s growth. “Children develop cognitive reasoning skills as they use the playground climbing, balancing, and sliding activities. Children also develop social skills and learn to resolve conflicts through interaction with other children,” said Mike Sutton, Director of Miracle Sales. “While they think they’re playing, we also know they’re becoming more physically active. And more physical activity means healthier children and healthier habits.”

"The Grants for America’s Schools Program is an exciting, new grant program only offered by Miracle,” said Dan Guthrie, President of Miracle Recreation Equipment Company. “Miracle has been building unique commercial play and recreation systems for our nation’s schools since 1927 so we understand the needs of children and the benefits playgrounds bring to children’s development and local communities they live in. We want the best for children and know that it’s important for Miracle to give back to the kids in this time of concerns over budgets and childhood obesity.”

“In today’s economic conditions, we understand the need to help America’s Schools financially and are supporting them with five million dollars from Miracle’s Grants for America’s Schools Program,” said Don Hemingway, Vice President of Business Development. “And Miracle’s grants will help more children have the opportunity to engage in more active play. It encourages imaginative, enthusiastic play which is essential in the cognitive and physical development of children.”

With over 80 years of experience, Miracle Recreation Equipment Company is one of the largest manufacturers of commercial outdoor playgrounds and recreational equipment in the U.S. Based in Monett, Missouri, the company offers its customers innovative and unique play structures that maximize play value while maintaining the highest levels of safety and developing children’s physical, social and cognitive skills. Miracle’s products provide children with exciting and safe places to play, physical exercise, social integration, confidence, self-esteem and improved motor skills. The company is dedicated to Shaping the Future of Play.

For more information or to set up an interview, contact: Vicki Douglass, Marketing Manager, +1 704-949-1630 or Vicki.douglass@playpower.com

SAAFER.org Awards Grant for American Ingenuity in Alternative Energy

Edward Palonek — Thu, 22 May 2008 15:13:50 GMT

SAAFER.org Awards Grant for American Ingenuity in Alternative Energy

SAAFER.org awards its first grant to an independent researcher for his outstanding achievements in developing a highly efficient generator capable of using renewable energy as a heat source. Currently, SAAFER's grant is funded entirely by public support and contributions.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) February 14, 2008 -- Supporting Advancements in Alternative Fuel & Energy Research (SAAFER.org) announced it has selected Paul Bellezza, from Parkesburg, PA, as the 2007 recipient of its annual SAAFER Solutions Grant. SAAFER.org, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to the recognition and funding of individual researchers focused on alternative fuel & energy projects. SAAFER.org's annual grant is funded by public donations and purchases of SAAFER.org decals available at http://www.saafer.org.

Mr. Bellezza's award winning project, Highly Efficient Thermoelectric Generator, is built of thermoelectric positive and negative type semiconductor elements between hot and cold paddles connected in series. His development of a toroidal ring has created high DC currents with low voltage in the 2000-5000 watt AC range. Ongoing work in varying energy design circuits will yield the high AC electrical efficiency outputs from DC thermoelectric power. The generator produces useable domestic and industrial AC electrical power from any appropriate heat source, including high temperature solar array. The compact generator, capable of being linked in several pairs to increase power output, provides a wide range of applications including industrial, home, and vehicle use as well as remote power generation. The thermoelectric generator weighs approximately 15 pounds.

Like all American heroes and pioneers, Mr. Bellezza's dedication and commitment has required determination and sacrifice. During his 8 years of research, his project has been funded personally. He credits his family's ongoing support and belief as the foundation of his success. SAAFER.org's grant is the first recognition and funding the project has received.

Damon and Kay Vance, founders of SAAFER.org, believe the individual researcher's input is crucial in ending the increasing burden of energy costs, air pollution, and security compromises to the United States. SAAFER.org's grant to independent researchers, like Mr. Bellezza, provides the opportunity for true American ingenuity and determination to deliver the progressive solutions necessary for this 21st century challenge.

In 2008, SAAFER.org will continue its fundraising efforts and attempt to strengthen its' alliances with established nonprofits, foundations, citizens, businesses, and government agencies. Any persons interested in making a donation, becoming an affiliate, volunteering, or applying for the grant can view more information at http://www.saafer.org.

Contact:
Damon Vance or Kay Vance, founders
Supporting Advancements in Alternative Fuel & Energy Research (SAAFER.org)
1-877-SAAFER9

Federal Grant Help

Edward Palonek — Thu, 15 May 2008 13:48:06 GMT

Federal Grant Help

Federal Grant Help has made their network of the largest online directory of free government money resources available for a low introductory price.

(PRWEB) July 17, 2006 -- Federal Grant Help is making their grant program available for the lowest price in history.

Over 20 Million People get government money each year. Still every year there is an enormous amount of unclaimed government and corporate grant money. And it's not a loan - it's money that does not have to be paid back. The only thing that stands in the way of you receiving this money, is a little work and research.

Private Foundations Use these Grants as Tax Write-Offs. This Free Government Money can be used for any purpose you can imagine. Start a Business, Go to College, Medical Bills, or Even Buy a house. Check for a company contact phone number before you buy. Don't be fooled by cheap imitations. If you find a better program than ours, anywhere, at any price, we'll meet or beat that price.

Federal Grant Help has just released our new and expanded Online Directory. We are the only Grant Company on the Internet currently providing all of these programs: Grant Guide, Grant Writing Software, Private Foundation Links, Business Plan Software, Credit Repair Help, Hot Money Links, Plus Three Other Free Bonuses assembled in one great package for one incredibly low, introductory price.

###