IN THE NEWS

NAACP Says IRS Summons Illegal, Politically Motivated

On Jan. 27 the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) declined to respond to a summons from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in an audit based on charges of illegal partisan activity. The NAACP said the agency did not follow proper procedures and its actions are politically motivated. The IRS denied its motives are political and referred the allegation to the Treasury Department's Inspector General for Tax Administration. The audit is unusual because it is based on NAACP Chairman Julian Bond's July 2004 convention speech that criticized Bush administration policies.

IRS Clarifies Rules for Foundation Funding for Lobbying

A recent letter from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to the Washington, DC-based nonprofit, Charity Lobbying in the Public Interest (CLPI), sheds light on the rules that govern private foundation lobbying. The request from CLPI contained a series of questions aimed at clarifying the law on foundation support of nonprofits that engage in lobbying. The response from the IRS dispels the misperception that foundation funding of nonprofits that lobby is inappropriate and illegal.

YOU'RE NOT THE BOSS of ME

HOW TO MANAGE SMART PEOPLE

After spending nine years at Microsoft
managing some of the brightest people in the
world, SCOTT BERKUN has a few tips to share
on the black art of managing the best.

GO TO:

http://changethis.com/13.SmartPeople

the Nonprofit Infrastructure

Special Infrastructure Issue!

Go to:

http://www.nonprofitquarterly.org/section/496.html
to download your complimentary copy of NPQ's (Non profit Quarterly) special issue on nonprofit infrastructure.

This issue is the culmination of work of a national group of nonprofit organizations (PDF) and the articles illustrate the crucial and varied roles national infrastructure groups play in strengthening the work of nonprofit organizations.

National Grants summit

National Grants Partnership

The Urban Institute, NCCS

2100 M Street, N.W.

Washington, DC  20037

www.TheNGP.org,
TheNGP@AOL.com
                            
January 17, 2005

Dear Colleague:

I am writing to tell you about a new opportunity aimed at improving grants management and administration. The National Grants Partnership is a cooperative initiative among Federal officials, representatives of state, local and tribal governments; their executive branch grants offices; and nonprofit organizations seeking to foster a partnership that will improve the effectiveness and use of grant funds while reducing burdens associated with grants administration.

The following goals have been identified by the NGP Steering Group and will be modified as objectives are completed that address these goals.

1. Develop and implement processes to increase efficiencies of grants management, resulting in reduced costs and administrative burdens.
2. Develop and implement strategies that increase state effectiveness in applying, obtaining and managing Federal grants, loans and other forms of financial assistance.
3. Provide high quality training and technical assistance to state and local governments and other entities.
4. Assist states in developing more cost effective statewide, interagency eGrants systems.
5. Create networking opportunities and facilitate communication between all stakeholders, including the Federal government, state and local governments, nonprofit organizations and national associations representing affiliated members.
6. Share best practices and innovations to assist states in continued efforts to streamline funding processes.
7. Serve as forum for grants policy discussions that mutually benefit funding agencies and fund recipients.

Please join us on February 16th from 10:00-12:00 at the Urban Institute, 2100 M Street, Washington, DC to learn how your organization or agency can participate in making a difference in the administration and delivery of grants.  Attached, please find a summary and a preliminary agenda. RSVP for the meeting by contacting us at:  TheNGP@aol.com if you or a representative of your agency or organization plans to attend.  We look forward to seeing you on February 16, 2005.

 

Sincerely,

 Cornelia I. Chebinou                             Tony Cavataio

Washington Director                             Department of Education

NASACT                                             NGP Co-Chair

NGP Co-Chair
 

from the Desk of Dannai Harriel: PA Partnerships for Children

From: Rochelle Jackson [mailto:rochellej@justharvest.org]
Sent: Wednesday, January 26, 2005 4:26 PM
To: Dannai Harriel
Perinatal Systems Liaison
Healthy START, INC.
400 N.Lexington Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15208
P-(412) 247-4009 ext. 302
F- (412) 247-0187


Subject: Fw: Joan Benso, PPC President and CEO, invites you to a conference call to discuss the state budget.

 
Hi Welfare Coalition members:

Below is information about some conference calls that may be of interest to you.  Pa Partnerships for Children is hosting two conference calls about the state budget

It would be good if you signed up for one of these conference calls right away.  If you are not on their mailing list, you need to include the name of your organization (if you have one), your address and phone number, along with your email.

Rochelle

Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children invites you to participate in a budget briefing conference call designed to provide you with critical information about the Governor's FY 2005-06 state budget proposal and the impact of potential federal action.

Join the call and become a more effective advocate for children and their families.

When:  Thursday, February 17, 2005, 1:00 P.M. to 2:30 P.M.

                        Or

               Wednesday, February 23, 2005, 9:00 A.M. to 10:30 A.M.

These identical conference calls will assist advocates in understanding the relationships between revenue and expenditures in the state budget proposal and fiscal forces driving the decisions that will be made on a range of health, education, and human services programs.

Listeners are encouraged to download and follow a budget presentation that will be used during the call. The budget presentation will be posted on PPC's Web site at www.papartnerships.org by February 16th at 10 A.M.  

Time will be reserved during the calls for questions and answers.

Reservation Instructions:  Space for each conference call is limited - register early. 

To participate in either call,

RSVP to Angela Smith at asmith@papartnerships.org. 

Indicate which conference call you would like to participate in.

·        For the Thursday, February 17th call, RSVP by Friday, February 11th

·        For the Wednesday, February 23rd call, RSVP by Friday, February 18th

Registrants will receive an e-mail confirmation notice, including the toll-free dial in number and conference call access code prior to the date of the call.

Spread the Word:  PPC encourages you to publicize these conference calls.  Please feel free to share the information with your membership or post an announcement on your Web site.  For additional information regarding the conference calls or sample web posting and/or links, please contact Fred Klunk at fklunk@papartnerships.org or dial (717) 236 - 5680 ext. 110.




| | | | |

THE BEST OF THE BEST!

Best Places to Work: 2000 - 2004
Listed below are the companies named to the Best Places to Work in Pennsylvania list from 2000 to 2004.

Best Places to Work in PA Nomination Process:
Nominations for the Best Places to Work in 2005 program will be accepted beginning February 1, 2005. The eligibility requirements and participation process listed below were used in the 2004 process.

SEE: http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/nominate.html
This information will be updated in December 2004 to include the 2005 Nomination Process information.

ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible for consideration, companies must:
Be a for-profit or not-for-profit business;
Be a publicly or privately held business;
Have a facility in Pennsylvania;
Have at least 50 employees in Pennsylvania; and
Be in good standing with all Commonwealth agencies under the Governor's jurisdiction.
The program ranks 50 medium-sized companies (50-250 employees) and 50 large-sized companies (251 employees or more).

...AND THE CURRENT WINNERS ARE...
1
Traffic Planning and Design, Inc.
Pottstown
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=1

2
Nolan Painting, Inc.
Havertown
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=2

3
Analytical Graphics, Inc.
Exton
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=3

4
Drayer Physical Therapy Institute, LLC
Hummelstown
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=4

5
Homeland Center
Harrisburg
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=5

6
The Hankin Group
Exton
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=6

7
Teva Neuroscience
North Wales
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=7

8
Stoner, Inc.
Quarryville
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=8

9
Penn-Air & Hydraulics Corp.
York
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=9

10
Erdman, Anthony and Associates, Inc.
Mechanicsburg
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=10

11
H.B. Maynard and Company, Inc.
Pittsburgh
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=11

12
The Graham Company
Philadelphia
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=12

13
1st Summit Bank
Johnstown
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=13

14
F&M Trust
Chambersburg
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=14

15
JPL Productions, Inc.
Harrisburg
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=15

16
DynKePRO, LLC
York
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=16

17
GGS Information Services, Inc.
York
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=17

18
Fairgrounds Surgical Center
Allentown
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=18

19
Kreischer Miller
Horsham
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=19

20
Kitchen Kettle Foods, Inc.
Intercourse
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=20

21
Murray Insurance Associates, Inc.
Lancaster
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=21

22
Refinery, Inc.
Huntingdon Valley
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=22

23
i-FRONTIER
Philadelphia
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=23

24
Perfect Order, Inc.
Mechanicsburg
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=24

25
ImageFIRST Uniform Rental Service, Inc.
Lancaster
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=25

26
Leer Electric, Inc.
Dillsburg
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=26

27
Brown & Brown of Lehigh Valley, Inc.
Bethlehem
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=27

28
Byers' Choice, Ltd.
Chalfont
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=28

29
Brown Shultz Sheridan & Fritz
Camp Hill
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=29

30
Somerset Trust Company
Somerset
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=30

31
Benatec Associates, Inc.
New Cumberland
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=30

32
Rx Pharmacy Services
Monroeville
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=32

33
HVAC Distributors, Inc.
Mount Joy
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=33

34
Benchmark Construction Company, Inc.
Brownstown
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=34

35
C.S. Davidson, Inc.
York
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=35

36
JFC Staffing Associates
Camp Hill
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=36

37
Union National Community Bank
Mount Joy
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=37

38
Signature Custom Cabinetry
Ephrata
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=38

39
McKonly & Asbury, LLP
Camp Hill
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=39

40
Alvin H. Butz, Inc.
Allentown
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=40

41
Lobar Associates, Inc.
Dillsburg
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=41

42
Belco Community Credit Union
Harrisburg
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=42

43
SECCO, Inc.
Camp Hill
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=43

44
Worley & Orbetz, Inc.
Manheim
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=44

45
Peoples National Bank
Hallstead
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=45

46
Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc.
Harrisburg
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=46

47
Alfred Benesch & Company
Pottsville
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=47

48
Brandywine Realty Trust
Plymouth Meeting
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=48

49
Dutchland, Inc.
Gap
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=49

50
Project Management Institute
Newtown Square
http://www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com/details.asp?year=2004&size=medium&Rank=50

career opportunity passed on by Bill Freed

The Aliquippa Alliance for Unity and Development is seeking a Workforce Development Program Assistant. This is a full time position with benefits and salary of $22,000.

Contact:

Job Developer/Retention Specialist- Full-time position for area non-profit in Aliquippa. Duties include development and implementation of workforce retention program and establishing partnerships with area businesses for referral of workforce participants. Transportation, computer literacy, and relevant experience necessary.  Associate degree required and Bachelor’s preferred. Salary Mid 20’s plus benefits. Fax resume to: 724 378-9809, email to agilliam@aaud.org or call 724 378-7422.
 
Maureen Morelli
Franklin Center Director
Aliquippa Alliance for Unity and Development
524 Franklin Avenue
Aliquippa, PA 15001
Ph: 724-378-2882
email: mmorelli@aaud.org

Requirements:
• Experience working with non-profit organization or job placement services company or human resources experience
• Computer literacy a must
• Associates degree required, Bachelors degree preferred

Duties include
• Assisting Workforce Coordinator in the intake & assessment of clients
• Provide coverage for Franklin Center Resource Room
• Assist clients with CareerLink Access Point training and support
• Conduct follow-up calls for Workforce Program participants
• Collect mandatory data for reporting entities
• Assist Workforce Coordinator in daily duties as assigned

Skills Required
• Proven track record of working with diverse populations
• Ability to motivate clients while creating a positive work environment
• Ability to work in a group in a collaborative effort
• Flexibility
• Ability to multi-task
• Experience with resume writing/design

(As posted in the media):
Program Assistant. – Full time position for non-profit workforce program in Aliquippa-duties include intake and assessment, assisting clients in CareerLink access, data collection , quarterly reporting and workshop coordination. Resume writing/design & computer literacy a must. Associate degree required, Bachelors preferred. Salary low 20’s plus benefits including medical.

Background Info:

Mission

The Mission of the Aliquippa Alliance for Unity and Development:

“to ensure the delivery of human services, workforce development and supplemental public school opportunities for Aliquippa and the surrounding area.”

History

The Aliquippa Alliance for Unity and Development (AAUD) has provided leadership in community and economic development since 1984. The AAUD was created in response one of the largest cases of de-industrialization in US history - the closing of LTV Corporation’s Aliquippa Works. The loss of 14,000 steel jobs left the city devastated. Located in the heart of Aliquippa, PA, the AAUD has insured access to human service programs, housing, medical care, banking services, business financial assistance, educational opportunities, the arts, and workforce development for those in need. The AAUD continues to serve as a strong voice of advocacy for community recovery initiatives.

In all areas, the Aliquippa Alliance for Unity and Development collaborates with other agencies, businesses, and individuals who share the goal of making life better for the citizens of Aliquippa and the surrounding area.


Link: http://www.aaud.org/

from Mr Cheeseboro: URBAN LEAGUE JOB POSTING

Please note that we are still looking for a good case manager and job developer for the Urban Youth Empowerment Program. Send through your
network.

With Appreciation,

Andrew Cheeseboro
Director of Employment and Training
Urban League of Pittsburgh, Inc.
One Smithfield Street, 3rd Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
412.227.4164 (P)
412.227.4171 (F)
Email:acheeseboro@ulpgh.org
mail to:acheeseboro@ulpgh.org
United Way Code # 103

Please join us at the annual Urban League Sunday on February 13, 2005, at Central Baptist Church, 2200 Wylie Avenue in the Hill District.

The Urban League of Pittsburgh: Empowering Communities - Changing Lives -
Learn more at www.ulpgh.org/

EAT 'N WORK

HOW FAR WILL YOU GO?
Don't think of this as a job, but as a career.

The Urban League of Pittsburgh, in collaboration with EAT 'N PARK, is looking for individuals for:

ASSISTANT MANAGER POSITIONS

Information Session
Thursday January 20, 2005 10am to 12pm
Urban League of Pittsburgh
One Smithfield St., Third Floor
Conference Room B
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Call (412) 227-4172 for more information.
ASK FOR DARLENE WANAMAKER

from the desk of Will Moody

Full Medical Scholarships for African Americans

Please pass this on to any African American who may be interested in a
free medical degree. Washington University in St. Louis, the Medical
School, now ranked number 2 (along with Baltimore's John's Hopkins
University Medical School) has scholarships to award to bright black
Americans. The students that are chosen will be awarded full tuition
for 4 yrs - $30,000.00 per year plus $2,500.00 stipend.


Check them out on the Web. Washington University Home page
www.wustl.edu_ ( http://www.wustl.edu/).
For Complete instructions and deadlines for applying, call the office of
undergraduate Admission at (800)638-0700 or (314)935-6087. To view the
application and to obtain more information you can also visit their web
site at http://admissions.wustledu (
http://admissions.wustledu/)


The Ervin Scholars Program selection committee evaluates all
Applications and invites finalists to Washington University for
interviews in the spring. The University pays all travel and interview
expenses.

John B. Ervin Scholars Program _ervin@wustl.edu_
(mailto:ervin@wustl.edu)

Dorothy Elliott Associate Director, John B. Ervin Scholars Program PH
314-935-7192 Fax:314-935-5875 E-mail:delliot@artsci.wstl.edu

Adrienna L. Glore, Associate Dean for Students, 314-935-5040 E-mail:
glore@dosa.wustl.edu_ (mailto:glore@dosa.wustl.edu)

    If you know of any Black American that would like to apply please
    share
this with them. BDPA Richmond: Visit our web site for more information
_ http://www.bdparichmondorg_ (
http://www.bdparichmondorg/) (804)751-517

from the desk of ....?

"DON'T MUG YOURSELF"

Johns Hopkins has recently sent this out in their newsletters.

This information is being circulated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
Dioxin Carcinogens cause cancer. Especially breast cancer.
Don't freeze plastic water bottles with water in them as this also releases dioxin from
the plastic. Dr. Edward Fujimoto from Castle hospital was on a TV
program explaining this health hazard. (He is the manager of the Wellness
Program at the hospital.) He was talking about dioxins and how bad they
are for us.
He said we should not heat our food in the microwave using plastic
containers. This applies particularly to foods that contain fat. He said
that the combination of fat, high heat and plastics releases dioxin into
the food and ultimately into the cells of the body Dioxin are carcinogens
and highly toxic to the cells of our bodies. Instead, he recommends using
glass, Corning Ware, or ceramic containers for heating food. You get the
same results .without the dioxin.

So such things as TV dinners, instant ramen and soups, etc., should be
removed from the container and heated in something else. Paper isn't bad
but you don't know what is in the paper. Just safer to use tempered glass,
Corning Ware, etc.

Remember when some of the fast food restaurants moved away from the foam
containers to paper? The dioxin problem is one of the reasons.
To add to this: Saran wrap placed over foods as they are nuked, with the
high heat, actually drips poisonous toxins into the food, use paper towels
instead.

Please pass this on to your family & friends, & those who are important in
your life.

...Dannai Harriel pt.2

Communications In The Arts

A seminar series with Andrew W. Thornhill

This series of seminars and discussions is designed to help arts
organizations, artists, media outlets and local businesses gain greater
advantage from their communications planning and implementation.

The first Seminar

1) WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS?
Marketing Planning - Advertising, Graphics, Media Relations (Publicity),
Public Relations, Community Relations, Trade Relations, Special Events,
Merchandising

 Saturday, January 8, 2005 - 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

 Open to the public – Only $20 Per person

Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) Homewood - Brushton Branch - 701 N. Homewood Avenue
For information or directions, call (412) 371-1600

Media Partner: Pittsburgh Community Television, www.PCTV21.org

Refreshments will be served

Our presenter, Andrew W. Thornhill, has 30 years in the communications
industry and the components of the program.  You can gain insight, ask
questions and plan your strategy – at a minimal cost!


Mark Your Calendar!- 5 More Seminars!

From basic media choices to the benefits of sophisticated corporate
sponsorship, this series will guide each participant to a better
understanding of the marketing, media and communications world and the
skills to be successful.  Be sure to ask about our field trips to Chicago
and Las Vegas!


The next Seminars

2. HOW TO DO IT. – February 12

Concept, Project Outline, Calendar, Project Research, Start Small, Imagine Big!, Break, Planning Methods, Ready To Go, Partners, Contractors, Web Sites

3. CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP PAYS FOR IT! – March (TBA)

Corporate Sponsorship for the Arts - Getting Started, The Role of the
Warrior, Serious Planning, Business Relations, Integrated Marketing. 
Sponsor Relations - Administration, Continuity, Presentation
Radio, Television, Newspaper, Magazine, Internet

4. PAID MEDIA – April (TBA)

Radio, Television, Newspaper, Magazine, Internet

5. PROPRIETARY MEDIA – May 7

Flyer, Newsletter, Internet, Radio, Magazine, Television

6. A PEEK AT THE FUTURE – June (TBA)

Digital Media, Digital Television

The Communications in the Arts Seminars are made possible by support from
the Pittsburgh Center for Communications in the Arts -PittsburghCenter@hotmail.com

Communications In The Arts Seminars are offered nationally in association
with Performance School, Inc. - David Mills, Ph.D., Producer – www.performanceschool.org
Copyright © Andrew W. Thornhill, 2000-2004, All Rights Reserved

fron the desk of Andrew Cheeseboro

The Urban League of Pittsburgh
(http://www.ulpgh.org/)
Announces a New Employment Program

The National Urban League has received funding through the U.S. Department of Labor to provide career preparation and meaningful unsubsidized employment to “high risk” out of school and or adjudicated youth ages 18-21. The 18 to 21 year old population suffers from a 48% unemployment rate in the Pittsburgh area. As a result, this program focus will have an impact in the area with the greatest need.

The Urban Youth Empowerment Program (UYEP) will work with the youth to enhance their skills and provide on the job training so that they can get a good paying job.

The Urban League of Pittsburgh is pleased that it is one of fifteen affiliates of the National Urban League to be awarded a $500,000 grant to manage the UYEP contract in Pittsburgh.

The program will provide youth with intensive case management, computer training, community service, mentoring, internships and on the job training.

The Urban League of Pittsburgh is partnering with the Three Rivers Workforce Investment Board (http://www.trwib.org/) and other community organizations in implementing the UYEP contract.

A community advisory committee chaired by Tim E. Nettles, Vice President/General Manager of Enterprise Rent a Car Corporation of Pennsylvania will oversee the initiative.

The community advisory committee also includes Kim Berkeley Clark, Supervising Judge of Juvenile Court of Allegheny County, Ronnie Bryant, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance, Edward Mulvey, Professor of Psychiatry at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, John Rohm, Regional Vice President of Clear Channel Radio and other committed members of our community.

The Urban League of Pittsburgh within the next two weeks is seeking to hire people to staff this program. They are looking for good candidates for a Project Director, Case Managers, a Job Developer and an Administrative Assistant.

from the desk of Dannai Harriel

Thanks for the 1st entry of the year- j.

Healthy Community


As part of its ongoing goal of improving the health care of women and their families, Magee-Womens Hospital recognizes the importance of establishing community-based health education. In order to increase access to health education for low income and urban women, Magee-Womens Hospital now offers a series of health classes in a variety of community settings. These programs are designed to offer health information useful for women and their families. Each program is designed for learning through participation in discussions, displays and videos.

Enclosed is a list of the health topics. These classes will be at no cost to your organization or participants, except where noted. Good will offerings are gratefully accepted and are applied to future programming. Presentations will last from 1-2 hours depending on the topic unless otherwise noted.

We hope you will take advantage of this opportunity. For information, please contact us by phone at 412-641-4482 or 412-641-1047.

Magee Womens Hospital

HEALTHY COMMUNITY

PROGRAM OFFERINGS

Breast Health
Includes discussion of the importance of early detection as the best protection in combating breast cancer successfully. Facilitators use breast models and videos to advance the discussion, and breast cancer survivors tell their stories.

Intimate Partner Violence
Defines in depth what domestic violence is, recognizing risk, decreasing risk to self and family, and how to safely seek help. Can also address the special aspects of dating violence when presented for adolescents.

Sexually Transmitted Infections/Safer Sex
Includes information on recognition, diagnosis and treatment for sexually transmitted infections. Protection and risky behaviors will be discussed. Long term consequences to health and reproduction will be reviewed. A frank discussion about HIV infection and AIDS is included. Protecting oneself, partner and unborn child from this serious threat to health and life as well as testing and treatment are addressed.

Healthy Lifestyles
A basic review of what contributes to the health of a woman's mind, body and spirit. Topics include: good eating habits, coping with stress, feeling fit, safety concerns and beating the blues.

Label Reading and Smart Shopping
Learn the latest tips for comparison shopping for food items. Using product information labels and recognizing store marketing strategies can help you get to the checkout counter.

The Second Half: A Unique Experience
Health goals change as lifestyles change in the second half of life. Beginning with menopause, this discussion will focus on adjustments in diet, rest and recreation for well being. The importance of continuing with women's health care check ups will be addressed. Bone health and heart health for women can be included or addressed separately in greater depth.

Stress Management
A basic review of what stress is, how it can affect individuals both emotionally and physically; and some of the various ways of coping successfully. Recognizing signs of depression in oneself or a loved one and seeking treatment are included.

Babysitting Basics
Practical tips for 10-14 year olds on getting started with babysitting, working with babies and children and minor home emergency situations including relieving choking and making an emergency phone call. (Approximately 4 hours in one or two sessions.)

Methods of Family Planning
The reasons for seeking effective methods of birth control will be discussed. The advantages and drawbacks of the various methods available will be illustrated with models and examples of each method.

Pediatric Basic Life Support-Infant/Child CPR for Families
The American Heart Association program, taught by an approved instructor, will offer the basics in home safety, and recognizing and treating life threatening events involving infants and children. (Approximately 4 hours in one or two sessions)

A one hour demonstration of relieving choking, home safety and getting help in an emergency may be arranged.

Healthy Origins-Childbirth Preparation
Offered as a series, this program covers pregnancy, birth, and parenting with each topic centered session. Facilitated by a certified childbirth educator (Lamaze, International), a wide variety of videos, models and posters will add to the discussions and practice sessions. Tours of the Magee-Womens Hospital Womancare Birth Center may be arranged.

Review sessions for parents who attended classes with their first children, and are now welcoming a second (or more) child, may also be arranged.

Prenatal, Postpartum and Early Parenting Support
From the joys and discomforts of pregnancy to the roles of parents in rearing healthy children, new parents have questions. These informal groups can set meeting times to learn and share in the offices of any of the Magee-Women's Neighborhood Centers.

Baby on the Way: Children welcoming new brothers and sisters
Becoming a big brother or sister is a special event. This program can help children adjust to their mothers' hospital stays and to the new baby. Parents and children can hold and diaper soft cloth dolls and see a special video for “Big Kids.”

Growing Up Together for Daughters
Parents who want to be involved in helping their daughters with the confusing changes of growing up will want to attend this program. Facilitators encourage communication between parents and children regarding the normal processes of early adolescent sexuality. Suggested for ages 8 through 12 years.

A second program may be offered to 13 through 16 year olds and their parents, dealing with issues of sexual responsibility, dating, decision making, and pregnancy prevention.

Planet Future
Planning and following a course for the future is not always easy-especially for a young teen. Through small group activities, informal mentoring, and a little self expression through art, youngsters can raise their awareness of the possibilities for their personal goals.

Your suggestions on additional health topics are welcome.

Program Coordinators: E. Hughes and D. Chiaverini
Telephone: (412) 641-1047 for information

We look forward to hearing from you.

Diana Chiaverini, RN, MEd
Program Coordinator

Ebony Hughes, RN
Program Coordinator

Peabody High School College Fair

thanks to the hard work of many organizations and individuals, the East End Workforce Development Initiative was able to choreograph another successful event for the youth of Peabody High!

Peabody High School College Fair Photos

See some of the highlight photos from the Peabody High School Career Fair on the left column
(click image to enlarge)

rescue me...

Rescue American Jobs
http://www.rescueamericanjobs.org/
thank the huricane season...
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - New U.S. jobs soared at the sharpest rate in seven months in October, the government reported on Friday, helped by a surge in construction activity as hurricane-battered areas in the Southeast were rebuilt.
***


The high-tech sector is booming under President Bush
By JAMES K. GLASSMAN
The Labor Department just reported that the unemployment rate in the information-technology (IT) sector in the third quarter plummeted to just 3.4 percent — down from 6.2 percent in the first quarter. “Some 408,000 more Americans worked in IT this summer than . . . six months earlier,” says InformationWeek magazine. That’s a spectacular increase of 14 percent.

Today, 3.4 million Americans work in IT — precisely the same number as in the spring of 2000 when the tech bubble inflated to bursting. The difference between now and then is that jobs are rising in healthy fashion as demand for new computer and communications gear increases worldwide. We have finally worked the Clinton-era excesses out of the system, just as we have in the economy overall.

What’s remarkable about recent IT growth is that the work force is undergoing a dramatic realignment, with higher-paying jobs increasing at home. While fewer workers are employed in the United States today as computer programmers and analysts, many more are employed as managers and network and database administrators. That’s just the way trade is supposed to work in the model developed two centuries ago by Adam Smith and David Ricardo. Also last week, a new study for the Organization for International Investment by Matthew Slaughter, a highly regarded Dartmouth economist, found that “insourcing,” the hiring of Americans by U.S. subsidiaries of companies based abroad — many in the technology sector — has been rising. Such firms employed 5.4 million at last report, up from 2.6 million in 1987, and paid them 31 percent more than the U.S. average.

help is on the way...

Read the employment report here.
The labor market definitely benefited from the recover from hurricane season. Construction saw 71,000 jobs created in October, while professional and business services payrolls rose by 97,000, with a large number of temporary jobs created.
Manufacturing jobs dropped by 5,000, while retailers created 21,000 jobs. Average hourly earnings rose 0.3% for the month, in line with expectations and up from a 0.1% rise in September.

The labor market over the last 12 months
Month Change*
October '04 337,000
April 346,000
September 139,000
March 353,000
August 128,000
February 83,000
July 85,000
January 159,000
June 96,000

December '03 8,000
May 208,000
November 83,000
Total jobs created: 2,025,000*Change in nonfarm payrolls. Source: Labor Department

The economy is fundamentally in good shape, Zandi said, but there could be bumps with higher interest rates in the future. “As the job market gains traction, I think we are going to see long-term interest rates push up and we're going to have to adjust to that,” Zandi said.
The housing market and vehicles sales will both struggle with higher rates, he said.The White House trumpeted the jobs growth as the results of the president’s policy.
"What we saw today was a continuation of what we've seen from the summer of 2003,” White House Economic Adviser Greg Mankiw told “Squawk Box.” “We've seen 14 months of job gains. The economy's heading in the right direction. The president passed his jobs growth bill in the summer of 2003 and the economy turned around then and we've seen a robust growth since then.”

more...
http://moneycentral.msn.com/content/CNBCTV/Articles/Dispatches/P99743.asp?GT1=5732

heal thyself....

RED, BLACK AND BLUE
Kai Wright, AlterNet
Many progressive black voters entered this election in a
jubilant mood, with increased engagement and high turnout
in key states. But their effect was often countered by new
evangelical voters -- some of whom were African
American.
http://www.alternet.org/rights/20414/

HOW TO MAKE THE BESTSELLER LIST
Margo Baldwin, MobyLives
The publisher of George Lakoff's latest book describes her
battle with the New York Times and the power of independent
publishing.
http://www.alternet.org/mediaculture/20417/
More MediaCulture: http://www.alternet.org/mediaculture/

MOURNING IN AMERICA
Molly Ivins, AlterNet
Stop thinking about suicide or moving abroad.  Want to feel
better?  Figure out what you can do to help rescue the
country.
http://www.alternet.org/columnists/story/20413/
More Molly Ivins: http://www.alternet.org/columnists/1406/

WHAT'S NOT IN THE NEWS...AND WHY?

$1 trillion in Social Security to fake U.S. budget deficit numbers for next five years
Posted by: Admin on Saturday, October 16, 2004 - 07:05 AM GMT
 
The media keep reporting the fake U.S. budget deficit numbers. For example, a July 31, 2004 Washington Post story states:
The White House forecast yesterday that the U.S. budget deficit for this year will be a highest-ever $445 billion
A Sep. 7, 2004 Washington Post story states:
Democratic presidential nominee John F. Kerry retorted, "Only George W. Bush could celebrate over a record budget deficit of $422 billion."
An Oct. 14, 2004 Reuters story states:
The U.S. budget deficit expanded to $412.6 billion in the 2004 fiscal year
However, those numbers are cooked by including the Social Security Trust Fund. As explained by a Nov. 13, 1996 U.S. Congress research paper:
On-Budget and Off-Budget Entities. Under the unified budget approach, first implemented for fiscal year 1969, trust funds and federal funds are merged together into a single budget presentation. Over the years, Congress and the President have enacted specific exceptions to this approach. Entities included in the unified budget are referred to as "on-budget" entities; those excluded from the unified budget are known as "off-budget" entities. At present, the Social Security trust funds and the postal service fund are the only off-budget entities. The consolidated budget totals presented in the budget include both on-budget and off-budget transactions.
A Sep., 2004 Congressional Budget Office publication conveniently provides budget numbers for both the "off-budget" and the "on-budget", as estimated by both the CBO and the OMB. The CBO pegs the real 2004 ("on-budget") deficit at $574 billion, and the OMB pegs it at $599 billion. The CBO estimates a surplus of $153 billion for the "off-budget" (i.e. mostly baby boomers paying into the Social Security Trust Fund for the own impending retirement) to arrive at a "unified" deficit of $422 billion, the mythical number quoted by the media and even the supposed opponent to the current administration.

(SEE: www.underreported.com)...Scanning to the right in the same chart, the rightmost column sums up the budgets for the five years from 2005 to 2009. A trillion dollars of Social Security Trust Fund money is earmarked to reduce the five-year deficit from $2 trillion to $1 trillion.
If the past year is any indication, this trillion dollars will never be reported in the mass media.

As highlighted by 321gold.com, according to an Oct. 21, 2004 Toronto Globe & Mail newspaper article (free rense.com cache):
China's Communist rulers have a blunt message for anyone who frets about the planned Chinese takeover of Canada's biggest mining company: Get ready for more to come.

In an exclusive interview with The Globe and Mail in Beijing this week, Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing made it plain that the controversial $7-billion takeover of Noranda Inc. is just a small element in a much more ambitious strategy of investment in Canada's resources sector to feed China's voracious appetite for raw materials.

"Given our rapid economic growth, we're facing an acute shortage of natural resources," the Foreign Minister told The Globe.
"No matter how plentiful our natural resources, when you divide them by our population of 1.3 billion, the figure will be very small," he said.
"The Chinese government is encouraging Chinese enterprises to make investments in Canada, particularly in the field of resources exploitation."
It is the first public comment on the Noranda issue by a senior Chinese leader since the controversy over the planned takeover erupted last month.


Towns Hand Out Tax Breaks [and cash], Then Cry Foul as Jobs Leave
Posted by: Admin on Saturday, October 30, 2004 - 06:05 PM GMT 
As highlighted by corpwatch.org, according to an Oct. 20, 2004 New York Times article of the same title (free cache at the corpwatch.org link):
Galesburg, Illinois, People in this big-shouldered town, birthplace of the poet Carl Sandburg, say Maytag broke their hearts. After a decade of tax breaks and union concessions to keep the company in a place that has been making refrigerators for more than 50 years, Maytag closed its factory last month, terminating 1,600 jobs.
Maytag may be done with Galesburg, but Galesburg is not done with Maytag.
District Attorney Paul L. Mangieri wants to sue Maytag to recoup what he says were excess tax breaks in a broad package of incentives to keep the company here. Much of the money, he said, came from a purse that would have gone to schools in this economically fragile community.

"We gave Maytag these incentives, and they accepted them," said Mr. Mangieri, a Navy veteran who grew up in a small town not far from here in western Illinois. "We did it based on faith and trust. If we don't do anything now, it sends a message that we lack the resolve to treat the rich and privileged the same as everybody else."

Maytag says it honored its agreement and took just the breaks to which it was entitled.

There are echoes of Mr. Mangieri's argument in Putnam County, Fla., which gave $4.5 million in cash and tax breaks to attract a call center owned by Sykes Enterprises, only to have it pull up stakes this month after less than five years in Palatka.

"We ought to sue them," said Timothy Keyser, a Putnam County lawyer who opposed the tax breaks from the start. "They sold the county a bill of goods."

[...] In New York, State Comptroller Alan G. Hevesi said in an audit this year that a program that gives millions of dollars in tax breaks to businesses that promise to create work ended up rewarding some businesses that lost jobs. Other state officials disputed those findings.