USATODAY.com - Legislators have critical eye on Red Cross: "Legislators have critical eye on Red Cross
By Bill Nichols, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON � The American Red Cross faces the toughest challenge of its century-old special relationship with Congress.
A congressional investigation of the charity is set to escalate this week: The Red Cross is due to respond Monday to questions from Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican. And two members of the House of Representatives, Democrat Bennie Thompson of Mississippi and Republican Jim McCrery of Louisiana, have called for reconsidering the Red Cross' official designation as the charity the government relies on first after national disasters.
Thompson and McCrery say that after Hurricane Katrina, the Red Cross did not respond quickly enough in low-income areas, did not reach remote Gulf Coast communities, could not manage its overwhelmed phone lines for storm victims, failed to cooperate with local organizations and was unclear in telling donors how their gifts would be spent. "
Monday, January 30, 2006
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
The twisty trail of car donations - Los Angeles Times
The twisty trail of car donations - Los Angeles Times: "The twisty trail of car donations
# New tax rules aim to stem abuse of charity programs. Is it too much -- or still not enough?
By Ralph Vartabedian, Times Staff Writer
Got a used lemon to unload? For years, the federal government allowed owners of rundown vehicles to donate them to a charity and then declare them as tax write-offs — often based on unrealistically high values — and saddling many low-income buyers with defective cars while cheating the IRS on taxes.
After growing abuse of this little-understood system, Congress last year enacted legislation to stop the tax abuse and force major reforms in the nonprofit sector. The new rules apply beginning with last year's donations filed on this year's tax returns."
# New tax rules aim to stem abuse of charity programs. Is it too much -- or still not enough?
By Ralph Vartabedian, Times Staff Writer
Got a used lemon to unload? For years, the federal government allowed owners of rundown vehicles to donate them to a charity and then declare them as tax write-offs — often based on unrealistically high values — and saddling many low-income buyers with defective cars while cheating the IRS on taxes.
After growing abuse of this little-understood system, Congress last year enacted legislation to stop the tax abuse and force major reforms in the nonprofit sector. The new rules apply beginning with last year's donations filed on this year's tax returns."
Follow the money - The Boston Globe
Follow the money - The Boston Globe: "Follow the money
By Eileen McNamara, Globe Columnist | January 25, 2006
If merely feeling burdened were reason enough to avoid paying taxes, state and federal coffers would be empty.
But that is the argument of religious organizations trying to kill legislation that would require churches in Massachusetts to do what every other tax-exempt charity in the state is already obliged to do: open their financial books to the public. The filing fee and accounting costs would be too burdensome, they say.
This is called a smokescreen."
By Eileen McNamara, Globe Columnist | January 25, 2006
If merely feeling burdened were reason enough to avoid paying taxes, state and federal coffers would be empty.
But that is the argument of religious organizations trying to kill legislation that would require churches in Massachusetts to do what every other tax-exempt charity in the state is already obliged to do: open their financial books to the public. The filing fee and accounting costs would be too burdensome, they say.
This is called a smokescreen."
CNW Group-AFP Looks Forward to Working with Canada's New Government
CNW Group: "Attention National And Political Editors:
AFP Looks Forward to Working with Canada's New Government
OTTAWA, Jan. 24 /CNW/ -- The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) congratulates the Conservative party on its victory in the national elections and looks forward to working with it and all parties to increase giving opportunities for donors and expand the capacity of charities
to help all Canadians.
Prior to the election, the Conservative party proposed eliminating the capital gains tax on listed stock donated to charities. AFP applauded that move and is prepared to work with the elected officials of all parties to remove a longstanding roadblock that has hindered Canadians from giving to the voluntary sector.
'Eliminating the capital gains tax for gifts of stock to charities could increase giving by hundreds of millions of dollars every year,' said Susan Mullin, director of development at the York University Foundation and chair of AFP's Canadian Government Relations Committee."
AFP Looks Forward to Working with Canada's New Government
OTTAWA, Jan. 24 /CNW/ -- The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) congratulates the Conservative party on its victory in the national elections and looks forward to working with it and all parties to increase giving opportunities for donors and expand the capacity of charities
to help all Canadians.
Prior to the election, the Conservative party proposed eliminating the capital gains tax on listed stock donated to charities. AFP applauded that move and is prepared to work with the elected officials of all parties to remove a longstanding roadblock that has hindered Canadians from giving to the voluntary sector.
'Eliminating the capital gains tax for gifts of stock to charities could increase giving by hundreds of millions of dollars every year,' said Susan Mullin, director of development at the York University Foundation and chair of AFP's Canadian Government Relations Committee."
Monday, January 23, 2006
Washington Examiner: Business-Tax bill top nonprofits' Hill agenda
Washington Examiner: Business: "Tax bill top nonprofits' Hill agenda
By Frank Sietzen Jr.
Special to The Examiner
Published: Sunday, January 22, 2006 7:59 PM EST
E-mail this story | Print this page
When the final session of the 109th Congress gets under way next week, on the agenda for completion will be major legislation affecting charities and other nonprofits.
The unfinished legislation is a tax bill that exists in two separate versions - one each in the House and Senate."
By Frank Sietzen Jr.
Special to The Examiner
Published: Sunday, January 22, 2006 7:59 PM EST
E-mail this story | Print this page
When the final session of the 109th Congress gets under way next week, on the agenda for completion will be major legislation affecting charities and other nonprofits.
The unfinished legislation is a tax bill that exists in two separate versions - one each in the House and Senate."
Charity Village®NewsWeek: Cover Story-Canada's role in international aid: The NGO perspective
Charity Village®NewsWeek: Cover Story: "Canada's role in international aid: The NGO perspective
Andy Levy-AjzenkopfJanuary 23, 2006
By Andy Levy-Ajzenkopf
Generally speaking, Canadians are proud of being a courteous and helpful people, almost to a fault. We are taught that we're a cultural mosaic, accepting of everyone in a spirit of inclusiveness. For much of our history we have taken these qualities and built an international reputation as one of the 'good' countries, a people and place to call upon when times are tough. Nations trust that the Canucks will show up when needed. Most of us still hang onto that image. It's a nice thought. But in a post-9/11 world has Canada's standing as a respected global citizen diminished? Do other nations still view us as the knight in shining armour we believe ourselves to be? The answer is yes...and no."
Andy Levy-AjzenkopfJanuary 23, 2006
By Andy Levy-Ajzenkopf
Generally speaking, Canadians are proud of being a courteous and helpful people, almost to a fault. We are taught that we're a cultural mosaic, accepting of everyone in a spirit of inclusiveness. For much of our history we have taken these qualities and built an international reputation as one of the 'good' countries, a people and place to call upon when times are tough. Nations trust that the Canucks will show up when needed. Most of us still hang onto that image. It's a nice thought. But in a post-9/11 world has Canada's standing as a respected global citizen diminished? Do other nations still view us as the knight in shining armour we believe ourselves to be? The answer is yes...and no."
O'Malley resists bill on financial disclosure - The Boston Globe
O'Malley resists bill on financial disclosure - The Boston Globe: "O'Malley resists bill on financial disclosure
Encourages Catholics to lobby against measure
By Scott Helman and Frank Phillips, Globe Staff | January 21, 2006
On the eve of a key vote, Archbishop Sean P. O'Malley has accused sponsors of a bill requiring religious organizations to disclose their finances of attempting to use the political process to assert control of the financial affairs and decisions of the Catholic Archdiocese of Boston."
Encourages Catholics to lobby against measure
By Scott Helman and Frank Phillips, Globe Staff | January 21, 2006
On the eve of a key vote, Archbishop Sean P. O'Malley has accused sponsors of a bill requiring religious organizations to disclose their finances of attempting to use the political process to assert control of the financial affairs and decisions of the Catholic Archdiocese of Boston."
Friday, January 20, 2006
AFP Applauds Call for Tax Reductions for Canadian Nonprofits
AFP Applauds Call for Tax Reductions for Canadian Nonprofits: "AFP Applauds Call for Tax Reductions for Canadian Nonprofits
E-mail or Print this story
19 January 2006, 6:05pm ET
OTTAWA, Canada, Jan. 19 /CNW/ -- In the past few days, both the Conservative and Liberal parties announced that they would bolster charitable giving by eliminating capital gains taxes on certain gifts to charities. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) applauds this move that would remove a longstanding roadblock that has hindered Canadians from giving to the voluntary sector.
The Conservative party proposed eliminating the capital gains tax on listed stock donated to charities. The Liberal party measure would eliminate the capital gains tax on ecologically sensitive land and on gifts of publicly traded shares to public charities."
E-mail or Print this story
19 January 2006, 6:05pm ET
OTTAWA, Canada, Jan. 19 /CNW/ -- In the past few days, both the Conservative and Liberal parties announced that they would bolster charitable giving by eliminating capital gains taxes on certain gifts to charities. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) applauds this move that would remove a longstanding roadblock that has hindered Canadians from giving to the voluntary sector.
The Conservative party proposed eliminating the capital gains tax on listed stock donated to charities. The Liberal party measure would eliminate the capital gains tax on ecologically sensitive land and on gifts of publicly traded shares to public charities."
CNW Group
CNW Group: "Attention Business, National And Political Editors:
AFP Applauds Call for Tax Reductions for Canadian Nonprofits
OTTAWA, Canada, Jan. 19 /CNW/ -- In the past few days, both theConservative and Liberal parties announced that they would bolster charitable giving by eliminating capital gains taxes on certain gifts to charities. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) applauds this move that would remove a longstanding roadblock that has hindered Canadians from giving to the
voluntary sector.
The Conservative party proposed eliminating the capital gains tax on listed stock donated to charities. The Liberal party measure would eliminate the capital gains tax on ecologically sensitive land and on gifts of publicly traded shares to public charities.
In its brief to the Standing Committee on Finance during the 2005 pre- budget consultations, AFP urged the federal government to eliminate the capital gains tax on gifts of appreciated assets (including but not limited to securities, and real estate) to charities, including private foundations."
AFP Applauds Call for Tax Reductions for Canadian Nonprofits
OTTAWA, Canada, Jan. 19 /CNW/ -- In the past few days, both theConservative and Liberal parties announced that they would bolster charitable giving by eliminating capital gains taxes on certain gifts to charities. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) applauds this move that would remove a longstanding roadblock that has hindered Canadians from giving to the
voluntary sector.
The Conservative party proposed eliminating the capital gains tax on listed stock donated to charities. The Liberal party measure would eliminate the capital gains tax on ecologically sensitive land and on gifts of publicly traded shares to public charities.
In its brief to the Standing Committee on Finance during the 2005 pre- budget consultations, AFP urged the federal government to eliminate the capital gains tax on gifts of appreciated assets (including but not limited to securities, and real estate) to charities, including private foundations."
Thursday, January 19, 2006
RIA Novosti - Russia - U.S. to raise concerns over Russian NGO law - State Dept.
RIA Novosti - Russia - U.S. to raise concerns over Russian NGO law - State Dept.: "U.S. to raise concerns over Russian NGO law - State Dept.
17:46 | 19/ 01/ 2006
Print version
MOSCOW, January 19 (RIA Novosti) - The United States' government is to continue voicing concerns over controversial Russian government policies, in spite of Russia's inaugural presidency of the Group of Eight leading industrialized nations, a senior U.S. State Department official said in a radio interview Thursday."
17:46 | 19/ 01/ 2006
Print version
MOSCOW, January 19 (RIA Novosti) - The United States' government is to continue voicing concerns over controversial Russian government policies, in spite of Russia's inaugural presidency of the Group of Eight leading industrialized nations, a senior U.S. State Department official said in a radio interview Thursday."
Liberal Party of Canada - liberal.ca
Liberal Party of Canada - liberal.ca: "Finance Minister Announces New Measures to Support Charitable Giving
January 18, 2006
Regina – Finance Minister Ralph Goodale today announced two significant new tax incentives to encourage charitable giving, including the elimination of capital gains tax on charitable gifts of ecologically sensitive land.
“The Liberal government fully recognizes the important role the charitable sector plays in meeting the needs of Canadians. We also recognize the importance of ensuring that charities are able to obtain the funds they require to finance their activities,” said the Finance Minister. “Today’s measures support charities in their efforts by providing additional incentives to encourage charitable donations.”"
January 18, 2006
Regina – Finance Minister Ralph Goodale today announced two significant new tax incentives to encourage charitable giving, including the elimination of capital gains tax on charitable gifts of ecologically sensitive land.
“The Liberal government fully recognizes the important role the charitable sector plays in meeting the needs of Canadians. We also recognize the importance of ensuring that charities are able to obtain the funds they require to finance their activities,” said the Finance Minister. “Today’s measures support charities in their efforts by providing additional incentives to encourage charitable donations.”"
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Supreme Court to Hear Nonprofit Freedom of Speech Case :: PNNOnline ::
Supreme Court to Hear Nonprofit Freedom of Speech Case :: PNNOnline ::: "Supreme Court to Hear Nonprofit Freedom of Speech Case
Posted by: PNNOnline on Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Topic Public Works and Advocacy
In a closely watched freedom of speech case, the U.S. Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments involving purported lobbying by a grassroots nonprofit organization prior to an election, the Chicago Tribune reports.
In a suit brought against the Federal Election Commission, Milwaukee-based Wisconsin Right to Life is asking the court to carve out an exception to the 'electioneering communication' provision of the campaign finance reform law, also known as the McCain-Feingold Act. The provision bars for-profit, nonprofit, and union groups from using general funds for television or radio ads that promote, attack, support, or oppose a clearly identified candidate for federal office within thirty days of a primary and sixty days of a general election.
"
Posted by: PNNOnline on Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Topic Public Works and Advocacy
In a closely watched freedom of speech case, the U.S. Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments involving purported lobbying by a grassroots nonprofit organization prior to an election, the Chicago Tribune reports.
In a suit brought against the Federal Election Commission, Milwaukee-based Wisconsin Right to Life is asking the court to carve out an exception to the 'electioneering communication' provision of the campaign finance reform law, also known as the McCain-Feingold Act. The provision bars for-profit, nonprofit, and union groups from using general funds for television or radio ads that promote, attack, support, or oppose a clearly identified candidate for federal office within thirty days of a primary and sixty days of a general election.
"
Elimination of estate tax will cost state millions -- Newsday.com
Elimination of estate tax will cost state millions -- Newsday.com: "Elimination of estate tax will cost state millions
Jan 17, 2006
BY TAMI LUHBY
STAFF WRITER
January 17, 2006, 10:13 PM EST
Gov. George Pataki's proposal to eliminate the state's estate tax could save some New Yorkers thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of dollars. But it would also cost the state hundreds of millions of dollars.
In the budget unveiled Tuesday, Pataki proposed doubling the amount free from the state's estate tax to $2 million starting in 2007, bringing the exemption in line with federal rules. The exemption would rise to $3.5 million in 2009, and the tax would be eliminated in 2010. While federal law calls for the federal estate tax to be restored in 2011 with a $1 million exemption, New York's tax would disappear permanently."
Jan 17, 2006
BY TAMI LUHBY
STAFF WRITER
January 17, 2006, 10:13 PM EST
Gov. George Pataki's proposal to eliminate the state's estate tax could save some New Yorkers thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of dollars. But it would also cost the state hundreds of millions of dollars.
In the budget unveiled Tuesday, Pataki proposed doubling the amount free from the state's estate tax to $2 million starting in 2007, bringing the exemption in line with federal rules. The exemption would rise to $3.5 million in 2009, and the tax would be eliminated in 2010. While federal law calls for the federal estate tax to be restored in 2011 with a $1 million exemption, New York's tax would disappear permanently."
Tags:
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
BCNG Portals Page
BCNG Portals Page: "Marnie Hill, Canadian ethics chair for the Association of Fundraising Professionals, said association members are expected to live up to a clearly defined code of ethics. Those who break the rules risk having their memberships terminated, but only in the rarest of cases are there legal or criminal repercussions.
“It’s up to the donors to ask these questions,” she said, adding that not all charities operate on a level playing field. “Legislators have tried to find ways to regulate these things, but they have yet to come up with a clear way to measure apples against oranges. It’s something we struggle with as fundraisers.”
Financial records indicate that hefty payments for both in-house and outside tele-marketers are partly to blame for Help Fill a Dream’s high overhead."
“It’s up to the donors to ask these questions,” she said, adding that not all charities operate on a level playing field. “Legislators have tried to find ways to regulate these things, but they have yet to come up with a clear way to measure apples against oranges. It’s something we struggle with as fundraisers.”
Financial records indicate that hefty payments for both in-house and outside tele-marketers are partly to blame for Help Fill a Dream’s high overhead."
St. Paul Pioneer Press | 01/15/2006 | Most charity tax breaks don't aid poor
St. Paul Pioneer Press | 01/15/2006 | Most charity tax breaks don't aid poor: "Most charity tax breaks don't aid poor
EDWARD LOTTERMAN
Unintended outcomes often reveal underlying principles. This is certainly true in the responses to Congress's temporary increase in the proportion of income that can be excluded from taxation through charitable gifts.
Intended as an incentive to help the hurricane-battered Gulf Coast, the measure reportedly has become a bonanza for colleges and churches. This illustrates the case that while a lot of charitable giving might go to good causes, it does relatively little to relieve poverty.
After Hurricane Katrina, Congress passed a temporary measure that increased from 50 percent to 100 percent the proportion of income one can exclude from taxation through charitable giving. The intent was to motivate increased giving to those harmed by three destructive storms."
EDWARD LOTTERMAN
Unintended outcomes often reveal underlying principles. This is certainly true in the responses to Congress's temporary increase in the proportion of income that can be excluded from taxation through charitable gifts.
Intended as an incentive to help the hurricane-battered Gulf Coast, the measure reportedly has become a bonanza for colleges and churches. This illustrates the case that while a lot of charitable giving might go to good causes, it does relatively little to relieve poverty.
After Hurricane Katrina, Congress passed a temporary measure that increased from 50 percent to 100 percent the proportion of income one can exclude from taxation through charitable giving. The intent was to motivate increased giving to those harmed by three destructive storms."
BBC NEWS | Europe | Foreign NGOs banned near Chechnya
BBC NEWS | Europe | Foreign NGOs banned near Chechnya: "Foreign NGOs banned near Chechnya
A Russian court has ordered two foreign non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to stop working in Ingushetia, where they were helping Chechen refugees.
The Ingush supreme court argued that the UK charity and a German humanitarian group called Help did not have the necessary authorisation.
The Russian parliament recently passed a law tightening controls on NGOs.
The UK charity concerned was named as the Centre for Peacemaking and Community Development (CPCD)."
A Russian court has ordered two foreign non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to stop working in Ingushetia, where they were helping Chechen refugees.
The Ingush supreme court argued that the UK charity and a German humanitarian group called Help did not have the necessary authorisation.
The Russian parliament recently passed a law tightening controls on NGOs.
The UK charity concerned was named as the Centre for Peacemaking and Community Development (CPCD)."
Tags:
Irish Times Article - Law reform body urges new legal structure for charities
Irish Times Article - Law reform body urges new legal structure for charities: "Law reform body urges new legal structure for charities
Carol Coulter, Legal Affairs Correspondent
A new legal structure for charities, to be called the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), should be set up, according to a Law Reform Commission paper being published today.
This would allow for the better regulation of charities, which are virtually unregulated at present.
The new structure would replace the various legal forms of organisation used by charities, which include charitable trusts, limited companies and unincorporated associations."
Carol Coulter, Legal Affairs Correspondent
A new legal structure for charities, to be called the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), should be set up, according to a Law Reform Commission paper being published today.
This would allow for the better regulation of charities, which are virtually unregulated at present.
The new structure would replace the various legal forms of organisation used by charities, which include charitable trusts, limited companies and unincorporated associations."
Charity deregistered - Breaking news - Breaking News 24/7 - NEWS.com.au
Charity deregistered - Breaking news - Breaking News 24/7 - NEWS.com.au: "Charity deregistered
From: AAP
January 16, 2006
A VICTORIAN charity run by a Melbourne councillor has been deregistered for pocketing up to 80 per cent of funds raised for bushfire and drought victims.
The Victorian Emergency Relief Fund Inc (VERF) had been refused registration as a fundraiser and could face prosecution, Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) said today.
The consumer watchdog said just 20 per cent of almost $100,000 raised by the charity in the year ending December 2005 had reached beneficiaries.
That figure was expected to increase to 35 per cent by the end of next month but falls well short of the required 50 per cent
VERF was founded by Banyule City Councillor Dale Peters in 2002 and promotes itself as a not-for-profit organisation assisting rural communities in need."
From: AAP
January 16, 2006
A VICTORIAN charity run by a Melbourne councillor has been deregistered for pocketing up to 80 per cent of funds raised for bushfire and drought victims.
The Victorian Emergency Relief Fund Inc (VERF) had been refused registration as a fundraiser and could face prosecution, Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) said today.
The consumer watchdog said just 20 per cent of almost $100,000 raised by the charity in the year ending December 2005 had reached beneficiaries.
That figure was expected to increase to 35 per cent by the end of next month but falls well short of the required 50 per cent
VERF was founded by Banyule City Councillor Dale Peters in 2002 and promotes itself as a not-for-profit organisation assisting rural communities in need."
AP Wire | 01/16/2006 | Evangelical churches accused of illegal political activities
AP Wire | 01/16/2006 | Evangelical churches accused of illegal political activities: "Evangelical churches accused of illegal political activities
Associated Press
COLUMBUS, Ohio - A group of religious leaders from nine denominations have accused two evangelical churches of improperly promoting an Ohio candidate for governor and want the Internal Revenue Service to investigate.
The 31 leaders from central Ohio met Sunday and signed a letter asking the IRS to determine if the churches should lose tax-exempt status because of their support for Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell, one of three Republicans seeking the nomination."
Associated Press
COLUMBUS, Ohio - A group of religious leaders from nine denominations have accused two evangelical churches of improperly promoting an Ohio candidate for governor and want the Internal Revenue Service to investigate.
The 31 leaders from central Ohio met Sunday and signed a letter asking the IRS to determine if the churches should lose tax-exempt status because of their support for Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell, one of three Republicans seeking the nomination."
Chron.com | Lobbying practices in Congress' cross hairs
Chron.com | Lobbying practices in Congress' cross hairs: "Lobbying practices in Congress' cross hairs
Abramoff case brings calls for tighter controls on gifts, perks to lawmakers
By MICHAEL HEDGES and BENNETT ROTH
Copyright 2006 Houston Chronicle Washington Bureau
WASHINGTON - The trouble with trying to reform lobbying, former House Majority Leader Dick Armey says, is that all lobbyists are not created equal: Some abuse the system, others are serious advocates who help educate lawmakers about esoteric subjects."
Abramoff case brings calls for tighter controls on gifts, perks to lawmakers
By MICHAEL HEDGES and BENNETT ROTH
Copyright 2006 Houston Chronicle Washington Bureau
WASHINGTON - The trouble with trying to reform lobbying, former House Majority Leader Dick Armey says, is that all lobbyists are not created equal: Some abuse the system, others are serious advocates who help educate lawmakers about esoteric subjects."
CBC New Brunswick - Charities want poker fundraising to be legal
CBC New Brunswick - Charities want poker fundraising to be legal: "Charities want poker fundraising to be legal
Last updated Jan 17 2006 10:02 AM AST
CBC News
Non-profit groups in New Brunswick are asking the province to legalize charitable poker tournaments.
Unregulated gambling is a criminal offence, but poker players don't have any trouble finding a game. At least two bars in Saint John are openly advertising poker tournaments."
Last updated Jan 17 2006 10:02 AM AST
CBC News
Non-profit groups in New Brunswick are asking the province to legalize charitable poker tournaments.
Unregulated gambling is a criminal offence, but poker players don't have any trouble finding a game. At least two bars in Saint John are openly advertising poker tournaments."
Abramoff 'charity' shows regulators were asleep at wheel - baltimoresun.com
Abramoff 'charity' shows regulators were asleep at wheel - baltimoresun.com: "Name a practice that gives nonprofit organizations a bad image, and Jack Abramoff's Capital Athletic Foundation probably did it.
Run by one guy with no oversight? Check"
Run by one guy with no oversight? Check"
Friday, January 13, 2006
News from Agape Press
News from Agape Press: "Texas Southern Baptists Successfully Contest Denial of Tax-Exempt Status
By Allie Martin
January 12, 2006
(AgapePress) - Officials in one Texas county have reversed an earlier decision and granted tax-exempt status to property serving as headquarters for the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention (SBTC)."
By Allie Martin
January 12, 2006
(AgapePress) - Officials in one Texas county have reversed an earlier decision and granted tax-exempt status to property serving as headquarters for the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention (SBTC)."
TODAYonline-a small downside but many pluses
TODAYonline: "a small downside but many pluses
Fear of scurrilous allegations shouldn't stop whistleblowing law
Siew Kum Hong
ON Monday, this newspaper published a commentary by Mr Charles Tan ('It's not easy to whistle in the dark') advocating for whistleblowing legislation in Singapore.
.
While nobody disputes the importance of people within an organisation raising concerns about possible abuses, there is much less consensus on the desirability of a whistleblowing legislation.
.
In a recent newspaper interview, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Vivian Balakrishnan called it unnecessary, saying that people were free to contact the authorities.
.
It was, therefore, ironic to find a reader's letter in the same newspaper on the same day, describing how he was victimised after he blew the whistle on suspected irregularities at his employer. He eventually resigned, finding his working conditions untenable.
.
The Government has espoused a three-pronged position on whistleblowing legislation. Firstly, the Government questions its necessity, in light of the numerous reforms in recent years to strengthen corporate governance.
.
Secondly, the Government fears a flood of unfounded allegations of fraud, which would undermine employers and disrupt operations. Finally, it doubts the very efficacy of such legislation.
.
Many disagree with the government's views.
.
In a 2005 survey of institutional investors in Singapore, 68 per cent agreed that Singapore should introduce whistleblowing legislation — marginally less than the 70 per cent who supported companies introducing whistleblowing arrangements for corporate governance.
.
In other words, a substantial majority seem to find the recent corporate governance reforms insufficient.
.
Furthermore, focusing on whistleblowing merely as a means of ensuring good corporate governance is unduly restrictive. Whistleblowing is also relevant outside the corporate context, such as in government bodies, "
Fear of scurrilous allegations shouldn't stop whistleblowing law
Siew Kum Hong
ON Monday, this newspaper published a commentary by Mr Charles Tan ('It's not easy to whistle in the dark') advocating for whistleblowing legislation in Singapore.
.
While nobody disputes the importance of people within an organisation raising concerns about possible abuses, there is much less consensus on the desirability of a whistleblowing legislation.
.
In a recent newspaper interview, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Vivian Balakrishnan called it unnecessary, saying that people were free to contact the authorities.
.
It was, therefore, ironic to find a reader's letter in the same newspaper on the same day, describing how he was victimised after he blew the whistle on suspected irregularities at his employer. He eventually resigned, finding his working conditions untenable.
.
The Government has espoused a three-pronged position on whistleblowing legislation. Firstly, the Government questions its necessity, in light of the numerous reforms in recent years to strengthen corporate governance.
.
Secondly, the Government fears a flood of unfounded allegations of fraud, which would undermine employers and disrupt operations. Finally, it doubts the very efficacy of such legislation.
.
Many disagree with the government's views.
.
In a 2005 survey of institutional investors in Singapore, 68 per cent agreed that Singapore should introduce whistleblowing legislation — marginally less than the 70 per cent who supported companies introducing whistleblowing arrangements for corporate governance.
.
In other words, a substantial majority seem to find the recent corporate governance reforms insufficient.
.
Furthermore, focusing on whistleblowing merely as a means of ensuring good corporate governance is unduly restrictive. Whistleblowing is also relevant outside the corporate context, such as in government bodies, "
WROC TV NEWS 8 NOW ROCHESTER NEW YORK - Local Story
WROC TV NEWS 8 NOW ROCHESTER NEW YORK - Local Story: "Proposed legislation called the Charitable Giving Act of 2005 would change that, allowing non-itemizers to claim deductions for a portion of their charitable contributions.
'It wouldn't be necessary to itemize your deductions to get some tax benefit,' said Steven Friga tax preparer and Tax Director at Brighton Securities.
Charitable organizations believe proposed legislation would increase overall donations by billions of dollars each year.
'It would encourage people to give money who do not itemize.'
This latest legislation is still up for debate with passage not expected until March of 2006."
'It wouldn't be necessary to itemize your deductions to get some tax benefit,' said Steven Friga tax preparer and Tax Director at Brighton Securities.
Charitable organizations believe proposed legislation would increase overall donations by billions of dollars each year.
'It would encourage people to give money who do not itemize.'
This latest legislation is still up for debate with passage not expected until March of 2006."
Monday, January 09, 2006
Abramoff Case Aids Region's Charities
Abramoff Case Aids Region's Charities: "Abramoff Case Aids Region's Charities
Uneasy Lawmakers Unload Donations
By Jacqueline L. Salmon
Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, January 7, 2006; Page B03
Charities in the Washington area and across the country are reaping the benefits of the Jack Abramoff case as legislators distancing themselves from the convicted lobbyist dump campaign contributions linked to him and donate the money to worthy causes.
Almost 80 congressional representatives and state lawmakers have announced that they are giving to charity the contributions they or their political action committees received from Abramoff and his associates or clients. The causes include hurricane relief, animal shelters, community groups, health organizations, veterans' groups and Native American organizations."
Uneasy Lawmakers Unload Donations
By Jacqueline L. Salmon
Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, January 7, 2006; Page B03
Charities in the Washington area and across the country are reaping the benefits of the Jack Abramoff case as legislators distancing themselves from the convicted lobbyist dump campaign contributions linked to him and donate the money to worthy causes.
Almost 80 congressional representatives and state lawmakers have announced that they are giving to charity the contributions they or their political action committees received from Abramoff and his associates or clients. The causes include hurricane relief, animal shelters, community groups, health organizations, veterans' groups and Native American organizations."
Chron.com | Charitable corruption
Chron.com | Charitable corruption: "Charitable corruption
By RICK CASEY
Copyright 2006 Houston Chronicle
CHARITY begins in the House.
And the Senate.
The point has been brought home by recent disclosures in the juicy Washington scandal involving former lobbyist Jack Abramoff and his merry band of former Tom DeLay staffers.
Politicians and lobbyists have long sought to do well by doing good."
By RICK CASEY
Copyright 2006 Houston Chronicle
CHARITY begins in the House.
And the Senate.
The point has been brought home by recent disclosures in the juicy Washington scandal involving former lobbyist Jack Abramoff and his merry band of former Tom DeLay staffers.
Politicians and lobbyists have long sought to do well by doing good."
2-Cent Stamp Increase Is Only Temporary Fix for Postal Woes
2-Cent Stamp Increase Is Only Temporary Fix for Postal Woes:
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"Postal officials say the increase is needed to fund the $3.1 billion payment.
'It's not for their operating expenses at all,' said Neal Denton, executive director of the Alliance of Nonprofit Mailers, an association of charitable groups. 'That's a stamp tax.'"
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"Postal officials say the increase is needed to fund the $3.1 billion payment.
'It's not for their operating expenses at all,' said Neal Denton, executive director of the Alliance of Nonprofit Mailers, an association of charitable groups. 'That's a stamp tax.'"
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Inside Bay Area - Tri-Valley Herald - Local News
Inside Bay Area - Tri-Valley Herald - Local News: "Those negotiations were instigated by Radanovich and Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein, exemplifying how legislators can shape events even without legislation. In January, as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Feinstein will be at center stage for the Supreme Court confirmation hearings of Judge Samuel Alito. Radanovich has his own responsibilities as chairman of the House water and power subcommittee, as well as some more vexing personal priorities.
On March 8, with television cameras rolling, Radanovich joined Pennsylvania Republican Sen. Rick Santorum to unveil their '1 percent plan' for boosting U.S. charitable giving. They proposed a congressional resolution urging Americans to increase charitable contributions to an average of 3 percent of their income.
Santorum introduced his Senate resolution that same day. Radanovich did not. Instead, by the fall Radanovich was saying he was not sure when he might act."
On March 8, with television cameras rolling, Radanovich joined Pennsylvania Republican Sen. Rick Santorum to unveil their '1 percent plan' for boosting U.S. charitable giving. They proposed a congressional resolution urging Americans to increase charitable contributions to an average of 3 percent of their income.
Santorum introduced his Senate resolution that same day. Radanovich did not. Instead, by the fall Radanovich was saying he was not sure when he might act."
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