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Current News

FEC Proposed Rule Changes Threatening Nonprofit Advocacy

The U.S. Federal Elections Commission, responding to pressure from the republican Party, is proposing rules that would severely restrict nonprofit organizations from criticizing George Bush. Under the proposed rules, nonprofit organizations that advocate for cancer research, gun and abortion restrictions or rights, fiscal discipline, tax reform, poverty issues, immigration reform, the environment, or civil rights or liberties - all these organizations could be transformed into political committees if they criticize or commend members of Congress or the President based on their official actions or policy positions. I feel a terrible tightening in my chest as I consider what this might mean. Posted: 3/31/04; 5:19:50 PM #

The truth about why I hate Friendster
	Dave Weinberger tells us the truth about why he hates Friendster and it's pretty much in line with my own opinions about the current crop of "social networking" systems. Posted: 3/31/04; 5:19:20 PM #

Fundrace: Mapping political contributions
	The power of new technology to help us see connections that are there but just not so visible is very interesting to me. With the U.S. Presidential race gearing up, a tool like Fundrace could be useful. Using public information about campaign donations, it helps you find out who is supporting whom in your neighborhood. This is the search in my zip code. Posted: 3/31/04; 5:18:40 PM #

By the rivers of Babylon - Welfare in Ancient Mesopotamia
	Martti Muukonen has published a paper on ancient philanthropy and charity, entitled By the rivers of Babylon - Welfare in Ancient Mesopotamia (MS Word file). I'm fascinated by the continuity to present day traditions. Posted: 3/31/04; 5:18:21 PM #