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The Budget Resolution in a Nutshell

The Budget Resolution in a Nutshell

A Telephone Seminar

Rules and regulations governing the contents and consideration of the budget resolution. Topics include:

• Enforcement by points of order
  
• Implementation
  
• The budget resolution in relation to other budgetary legislation
  
• Reserve funds

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Roy Meyers.

• Thursday, August 21, 2008
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

The Budget Resolution in a Nutshell Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

July 25, 2008 08:17 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Congressional Pay and Perks

Congressional Pay and Perks

A Telephone Seminar

Are you interested in learning about congressional pay and perks? This program will provide an overview of congressional pay and pay increases; retirement benefits, including pension plans; and perquisites. Topics covered include:

• Current pay for Senators and Representatives and the three basic ways members can adjust their pay
  
• Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), Federal Employees Retirement Act of 1986 (FERS), and Social Security
  
• Retirement under CSRS and FERS
  
• House and Senate perquisites such as parking privileges, free outpatient care at the Naval Medical Center, and the franking privilege
  
• An insider's look at the "small cities" on the House and Senate sides of the Capitol and in the House and Senate Office Buildings

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Ida Brudnick.

• Thursday, August 14, 2008
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Congressional Pay and Perks Informed Citizen Series Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $27 plus shipping and handling

July 23, 2008 07:07 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Practical Web Research in a Nutshell

Practical Web Research in a Nutshell

A Telephone Seminar

Learn how to search more efficiently and effectively in this course designed for professionals who want practical techniques for conducting Web research on the job. In this course, you gain an overview of:

• How search engines work, and how to make them work for you
  
• Advanced, but easy, search techniques
  
• How to use the best of the free websites for legislative, legal, regulatory, factual, state, and international information
  
• What to do when you do not know where to start
  
• What you will not find on the Internet

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Peggy Garvin.

• Tuesday, August 12, 2008
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Practical Web Research in a Nutshell Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

July 21, 2008 04:17 PM   Link    Comments (0)

Advanced Legislative Strategies

Advanced Legislative Strategies

This advanced 3-day course in Washington, DC builds on the skills of those who have already learned the legislative process and basic congressional operations. In this course, participants learn how to develop high-level strategies and tactics to help educate Congress and influence legislation.

• August 6-8, 2008
• 9:00 am to 4:00 pm all three days
• More information here

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July 19, 2008 12:27 PM   Link    Comments (0)

PAC Management: Advanced PAC Strategy

PAC Management: Advanced PAC Strategy

A Telephone Seminar

If you want to take your PAC to the next level, this program is for you. Topics covered include:

• Competitor / Benchmark Analysis
  
• Champion Development
  
• Differentiation among candidates
  
• Finding and implementing effective ways to measure and perhaps predict contribution performance
  
• Top ten strategies

Open Q&A with the faculty included: DSteven Billet.

• Thursday, July 31, 2008
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

PAC Management: Advanced PAC Strategy Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

July 16, 2008 08:57 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Advanced Federal Budget Process

Advanced Federal Budget Process

In this 2-day course in Washington, DC you learn how the federal budget process really works from faculty members with years of subject-matter expertise. Study important terminology and get tips to protect your budgetary interests.

We provide a comprehensive overview of current budget politics and the federal budgeting process, so you gain the awareness and guidance necessary to increase your chance of boosting funds and minimizing cuts. Understand the budget resolution process as well as the differences between authorizations and appropriations.

Learn how to recognize various budget documents so you can use them most effectively. Students also discover performance-based budgeting principles and issues and OMB's tools for program performance assessment. Finally, we explore professional online budget research tips.

• August 4-5, 2008
• 8:30 am to 4:00 pm both days
• More information here

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July 14, 2008 08:37 AM   Link    Comments (0)

The Federal Budget Process

The Federal Budget Process

A Telephone Seminar

Phil Joyce provides an introduction to the federal budget process. Topics covered include:

• Federal budget process chronology
  
• The President's budget
  
• Players in the congressional budget process
  
• Key federal budget terms
  
• Three different processes
  
• The budget resolution and reconciliation

Open Q&A with the faculty included.

• Tuesday, August 5, 2008
  
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
  
• More information here

The Federal Budget Process Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

July 13, 2008 01:07 PM   Link    Comments (0)

Preparing and Delivering Congressional Testimony

Preparing and Delivering Congressional Testimony

You know your issue better than anyone else. This 1-day course in Washington, DC, gives you the information and confidence necessary to testify before Congress, effectively presenting your case to Congress.

Our experienced faculty explores all aspects of testimony preparation including research, persuasion and the proper structure of both written and oral testimony. Participants learn delivery and listening techniques, ways to deal with anxiety and best practice techniques for addressing both Q&A sessions and challenging situations. You learn how to prepare congressional testimony and how to testify before Congress.

This course provides ample time to discuss concerns with faculty members while helping participants feel at-ease as they prepare testimony or actually deliver testimony on the Hill.

• Wednesday, July 30, 2008
• 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
• More information here

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July 11, 2008 06:37 AM   Link    Comments (0)

July - August 2008 Legislative, Communication, and Media Training from TheCapitol.Net

Our latest email update:
http://www.thecapitol.net/PublicPrograms/email2008/email_2008_July8.html

Also see our new Audio Course Bundles, money-saving packages of our popular Capitol Learning Audio Courses.

TheCapitol.Net, Inc.
>> Exclusive provider of Congressional Quarterly Executive Conferences.
>> Non-partisan training and publications that show how Washington works. TM

July 8, 2008 06:47 PM   Link    Comments (0)

Strategies and Tactics That Will Help You Impact Congressional Action

Strategies and Tactics That Will Help You Impact Congressional Action:

How Knowing the Congressional Environment and Congressional Procedure Will Help your Lobbying Efforts

A Telephone Seminar

As a government affairs professional, you not only have to be an expert in your field, you also need to know how Congress works and how you can work with members of Congress and their staff to advance your efforts. This program will cover these topics:

• How to identify clear goals
  
• Who are your sponsors, friends, and opponents
  
• How to prepare for your first Congressional meeting
  
• Follow-up and outreach
  
• Working each step of the process
  
• Defining success

Open Q&A with the faculty included: David Grimaldi.

• Thursday, July 24, 2008
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Strategies and Tactics That Will Help You Impact Congressional Action: How Knowing the Congressional Environment and Congressional Procedure Will Help your Lobbying Efforts Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

July 5, 2008 09:37 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Researching Federal Legislative Histories: Bills, Resolutions, Committee Hearings, and Committee Reports

Researching Federal Legislative Histories: Bills, Resolutions, Committee Hearings, and Committee Reports

A Telephone Seminar

If you are researching legislative histories, you need a thorough understanding of federal legislative documents. During this program, you will learn about:

• Bills, resolutions, and the print and Internet sources for them
  
• Committee hearings—types and sources to locate published hearings
  
• Other miscellaneous documents and publications

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Bob Gee.

• Wednesday, July 23, 2008
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Researching Federal Legislative Histories: Bills, Resolutions, Committee Hearings, and Committee Reports Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

July 2, 2008 12:47 PM   Link    Comments (0)

Drafting Effective Federal Legislation and Amendments

Drafting Effective Federal Legislation and Amendments

This 1-day course in Washington, DC, helps anyone draft and revise bills and amendments, with lessons especially useful to those who prepare reports, legislation and other documents. In this course, instructors explain the role of the OMB, examining various formats and exploring ways to choose the most appropriate one for your issue.

We discuss how to:

• Define your audience and broaden your measure's appeal
  
• Assess existing law and policy objectives before putting pen to paper
  
• Structure bills and amendments to streamline the drafting process
  
• Comply with the U.S. Code rules of construction, style, grammar and punctuation guide
  
• Use drafting styles that work in your favor
  
• Apply drafting language to your ideas and goals via hands-on exercises

Course materials include the Training Edition of "Legislative Drafter's Deskbook," by Tobias A. Dorsey.

• Tuesday, July 29, 2008
• 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
• More information here

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June 24, 2008 02:07 PM   Link    Comments (0)

How to Research and Compile Legislative Histories: Searching for Legislative Intent

How to Research and Compile Legislative Histories: Searching for Legislative Intent

This full-day course in Washington, DC, explores effective, professional methods for locating and compiling legislative histories of federal laws.

Our experienced, up-to-date, and independent faculty demonstrate and discuss:

• Various document types necessary to research and compile legislative histories including enacted laws, bills and resolutions, floor debates and committee reports with a focus on federal (not state) legislative history research methodologies
  
• The fastest ways to find and use print and online documents
  
• Professional secrets and tips

Also see our web page, "Legislative History Reference and Research Tools."

• Friday, June 27, 2008
• 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• More information here

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June 21, 2008 09:37 AM   Link    Comments (0)

How to Find a Job in Washington, DC - Useful Web Sites

This is a list of web sites useful for job seekers and career changers in the Washington, DC area.

These web sites were discussed in the Capitol Learning Audio Course, "How to Find a Job in Washington, DC" taught by Derrick Dortch.

• The Washington Post - jobs
  
• Washington City Paper
  
• Monster
  
• Career Education Center at Georgetown University
  
• Google
  
• Yahoo
  
• USAJobs - "Official job site of the United States Federal Government"
  
• Avue Central - "A federal employment service provided absolutely free to the public. It’s the fastest and easiest way to find and apply for federal employment."
  
• USA.gov
  
• U.S. Senate Employment
  
• Almanac of Policy Issues - "Background information, archived documents, and links on major U.S. public policy issues."
  
• C-SPAN
  
• Policy Experts - "single-source directory for locating knowledgeable authorities and leading policy institutes actively involved in a broad range of public policy issues, both domestic and foreign."
  
• HillZoo.com - jobs on and off The Hill
  
• Governing.com Executive Marketplace - from Governing magazine
  
• National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL)
  
• careerbuilder.com
  
• indeed.com - "Search job sites, newspapers, associations and company career pages."
  
• dcjobs.com
  
• idealist.org - "Over 57,000 nonprofit organizations from more than 180 countries have created profiles on Idealist.org"
  
• IntelligenceCareers.com
  
• BankingBoard.com - "The Banking and Finance Career Center"
  
• Recruiters Network - The Association for Internet Recruiting
  
• International Association of Employment Web Sites - "The trade association for the global online employment services industry"
  
• RCjobs, from Roll Call
  
• PoliTemps
  
• financialcareers.com - "Specialists in the recruitment of financial and accounting professionals"
  
• The Ladders - "The most $100k+ jobs"
  
• PublicHealthJobs.net - "the Association of Schools of Public Health (ASPH) Employment Council"
  
• JournalismJobs.com - "The largest and most-visited resource for journalism jobs"
  
• Policy Jobs - "A job advertising website specialising in public policy jobs: covering research, policy making, and academic jobs in many fields including: foreign policy, economics, social policy, family policy, legal affairs and fiscal policy."
  
• Foriegn Policy Association, Job Board
  
• The Development Executive Group - The "source for NGO recruiting and international development jobs"
  
• ALISE (Association for Library and Information Science Education) Job Placement
  
• American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA)
  
• American Public Health Association (APHA) CareerMart
  
• Leadership Directories

How to Find a Job in Washington, DC Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

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June 18, 2008 02:07 PM   Link    Comments (0)

Research Skills for the Real World: Going Beyond Google

Research Skills for the Real World: Going Beyond Google

This 1-day course in Washington, DC, helps anyone responsible for research at any Washington-area organization, whether an agency, association, business, elected official or nonprofit. It is designed for anyone who wants to improve their research skills.

Are you among the 80 percent who haven’t received research skills training? Our faculty offer a minimum of 10 years' experience in performing research in Washington.

You'll gain:

• An overview of online searching, telephone and email research
  
• A review of legislative, judicial, regulatory, factual and international research
  
• A review of public and private information sources

Course materials include your personal copy of Real World Research Skills by Peggy Garvin.

• Wednesday, June 25, 2008
• 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
• More information here

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June 18, 2008 10:37 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Researching Federal Legislative Histories: Statutory and Code Research

Researching Federal Legislative Histories: Statutory and Code Research

A Telephone Seminar

If you are researching legislative histories, you need a thorough understanding of the sources and publication of laws, i.e., statutes and codes. During this program, you will:

• Learn about the "print and selected electronic" sources and publications of "Federal" laws in layperson's terms
  
• Examine the U.S. Statutes at Large and U.S. Code, and other compilations of laws
  
• Learn the fastest ways to find these documents in print and online
  
• Be apprised of other research aids

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Bob Gee.

• Wednesday, June 18, 2008
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Researching Federal Legislative Histories: Statutory and Code Research Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

June 17, 2008 06:17 PM   Link    Comments (0)

Keys to Effective Presentations: Invigorate Your Delivery and Increase Your Confidence

Keys to Effective Presentations: Invigorate Your Delivery and Increase Your Confidence

A Telephone Seminar

Jill Kamp Melton explains how to deliver a memorable presentation.

• Tips to project your voice and use breathing to help reduce anxiety. Your voice can help or hurt you. Learn how to change it.
  
• Techniques to increase your confidence and become a dynamic presenter. Turn your lack of confidence into an asset.
  
• Use content to engage your audience.
  
• Handle Q & A strategically. Change hecklers into helpers.
  
• Manage visual aids to add value.
  
• Practical "Do's and Don'ts".

Open Q&A with the faculty included.

• Tuesday, June 24, 2008
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Keys to Effective Presentations: Invigorate Your Delivery and Increase Your Confidence Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

June 16, 2008 07:47 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Legislating in the U.S. Senate

Legislating in the U.S. Senate

A Telephone Seminar

Martin Gold, a former floor advisor and counsel to Majority Leader Bill Frist will analyze how legislating in the U.S. Senate differs from legislating in the House of Representatives. He will share his personal experience and knowledge of the history of the Senate during this program. Mr. Gold will focus on the four pillars of Senate procedure:

• Rules
  
• Precedents
  
• Rule-Making Statutes
  
• Unanimous Consent Orders

Open Q&A with the faculty included.

• Thursday, June 19, 2008
• 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Legislating in the U.S. Senate Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

June 15, 2008 09:47 AM   Link    Comments (0)

How to Find a Job in Washington, DC

How to Find a Job in Washington, DC

A Telephone Seminar

• Where to start--developing your game plan
• When to come to Washington
• How to build a Washington network
• Online websites
• How to get a job on the Hill
• How to interview effectively--telephone and in person
• Following up on meetings and interviews
• Reality check

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Derrick Dortch.

• Tuesday, June 17, 2008
• 90 minutes: 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

How to Find a Job in Washington, DC Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

June 13, 2008 09:37 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Capitol Hill Workshop

From Congressional Quarterly (CQ) and TheCapitol.Net

	Capitol Hill Workshop: Politics, Policy, and Process Intensive 3-day congressional operations workshop Learn how Capitol Hill really works.
	This Congressional Quarterly Executive Conference is offered exclusively by TheCapitol.Net

Congressional decision-making is driven by politics, policy and process. In this engaging workshop, Washington-based experts discuss these 3 P's and help you understand the complete policy-making process.

Our next Capitol Hill Workshop, scheduled for June 11-13, 2008, is for anyone whose work requires that they have a broad understanding of Congress and Capitol Hill.

In 3 days, this workshop covers

• Congressional operations and the legislative process
• How public policy and foreign policy become law
• Congressional politics and leadership
• Congressional budgeting today
• The role of OMB in the legislative process
• Effective communication with Congres
• The current trends in campaigns and elections
• How personal and committee staff work
• How you can build win/win relationships with staffers

Q&A with all faculty throughout.

• June 11-13, 2008
• 8:30 am to 4:00 pm each day
• See web site for locations.

For more information, see www.CapitolHillWorkshop.com.

June 1, 2008 08:47 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Keys to Effective Presentations: Invigorate Your Delivery and Increase Your Confidence

Keys to Effective Presentations: Invigorate Your Delivery and Increase Your Confidence

A Telephone Seminar

How to deliver a memorable presentation.

• Tips to project your voice and use breathing to help reduce anxiety. Your voice can help or hurt you. Learn how to change it.
• Techniques to increase your confidence and become a dynamic presenter. Turn your lack of confidence into an asset.
• Use content to engage your audience.
• Handle Q & A strategically. Change hecklers into helpers.
• Manage visual aids to add value.
• Practical "Do's and Don'ts".

Open Q&A with the faculty included:Jill Kamp Melton.

• Tuesday, June 24, 2008
• 90 minutes: 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Keys to Effective Presentations: Invigorate Your Delivery and Increase Your Confidence Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

May 31, 2008 08:37 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Legislating in the U.S. Senate

Legislating in the U.S. Senate

A Telephone Seminar

Martin Gold (bio), a former floor advisor and counsel to Majority Leader Bill Frist will analyze how legislating in the U.S. Senate differs from legislating in the House of Representatives. He will share his personal experience and knowledge of the history of the Senate during this program. Mr. Gold will focus on the four pillars of Senate procedure:

• Rules
• Precedents
• Rule-Making Statutes
• Unanimous Consent Orders

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Martin Gold.

• Thursday, June 19, 2008
• 90 minutes: 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Legislating in the U.S. Senate Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

May 29, 2008 12:37 PM   Link    Comments (0)

Researching Federal Legislative Histories: Statutory and Code Research

Researching Federal Legislative Histories: Statutory and Code Research

A Telephone Seminar

If you are researching legislative histories, you need a thorough understanding of the sources and publication of laws, i.e., statutes and codes. During this program, you will:

• Learn about the "print and selected electronic" sources and publications of "Federal" laws in layperson's terms
• Examine the U.S. Statutes at Large and U.S. Code, and other compilations of laws
• Learn the fastest ways to find these documents in print and online
• Be apprised of other research aids

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Robert Gee.

• Wednesday, June 18, 2008
• 90 minutes: 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Researching Federal Legislative Histories: Statutory and Code Research Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

May 28, 2008 10:17 AM   Link    Comments (0)

How to Find a Job in Washington, DC

How to Find a Job in Washington, DC

A Telephone Seminar

• Where to start--developing your game plan
• When to come to Washington
• How to build a Washington network
• Online websites
• How to get a job on the Hill
• How to interview effectively--telephone and in person
• Following up on meetings and interviews
• Reality check

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Derrick Dortch.

• Tuesday, June 17, 2008
• 90 minutes: 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

How to Find a Job in Washington, DC Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

May 21, 2008 07:47 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Creating a Message That Resonates with Your Audience

Creating a Message That Resonates with Your Audience

A Telephone Seminar

If you want to make an impact, you need to have a clear and commanding message. This program provides the tools to create a message that resonates with your audience. Topics covered include:

• Creating your message for internal and external audiences
• The message pyramid--why it matters
• Using the Message Box to refine your message
• Theory and research
• Guidelines

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Michael Shannon.

• Tuesday, June 3, 200
• 90 minutes: 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Creating a Message That Resonates with Your Audience Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

May 19, 2008 08:07 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Parliamentary Procedure of the U.S. Senate: Debate and Amendment

Parliamentary Procedure of the U.S. Senate: Debate and Amendment

A Telephone Seminar

Learn about the two characteristics of the U.S. Senate that set it apart from the House of Representatives: the right to debate and the right to amend. Topics include:

• Recognition
• Non-debatable questions
• Limiting debate
• Cloture
• Amendment process

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Robert Dove.

• Thursday, May 22, 2008
• 90 minutes: 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Parliamentary Procedure of the U.S. Senate: Debate and Amendment Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

May 15, 2008 09:17 AM   Link    Comments (0)

May - June 2008 Legislative, Communication, and Media Training from TheCapitol.Net

Our latest email update:
http://www.thecapitol.net/PublicPrograms/email2008/email_2008_May13.html

Also see our new Audio Course Bundles, money-saving packages of our popular Capitol Learning Audio Courses.

TheCapitol.Net, Inc.
>> Exclusive provider of Congressional Quarterly Executive Conferences.
>> Non-partisan training and publications that show how Washington works. TM

May 12, 2008 11:17 AM   Link    Comments (0)

May 2008 Legislative, Communication, and Media Training from TheCapitol.Net

Our latest email update:
http://www.thecapitol.net/PublicPrograms/email2008/email_2008_April22.html

Also see our new Audio Course Bundles, money-saving packages of our popular Capitol Learning Audio Courses.

TheCapitol.Net, Inc.
>> Exclusive provider of Congressional Quarterly Executive Conferences.
>> Non-partisan training and publications that show how Washington works. TM

April 22, 2008 11:47 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Media Training and Tools

Upcoming live courses in DC

• Media Relations for Public Affairs Professionals, May 6, 2008
• Advanced Media Relations, May 7, 2008
• Public Affairs and the Internet: Advanced Techniques and Strategies, May 20, 2008

Upcoming telephone seminar

• Creating a Message That Resonates with Your Audience, June 3, 2008

Capitol Learning Audio Courses

• Creating a Message That Resonates with Your Audience
• Crisis Communications: Establishing an Internal Crisis Communications System
• Crisis Communications: Hoping That It Will Never Happen, But Glad You Planned For It E-Newsletters, Email Alerts, Podcasts, and Your Website
• Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) - Getting the Information You Need
• How the Media Works and How to Work the Media
• Maximizing the Internet for the Public Affairs Professional
• Media Relations: Capitalizing on Your Resources, Your Office, and the Media
• Media Relations: Merging Policy and Media Strategies
• Media Relations: Secrets to Changing Nattering Nabobs of Negativism into Perky Purveyors of Positivism
• Media Relations for the Newbie
• Press Conferences and Media Interviews for Scientists and Engineers
• Public Affairs Primer for Nonprofits and Associations

Media Relations Handbook, by Brad Fitch

Media Relations Handbook, by Brad Fitch

April 21, 2008 05:27 PM   Link    Comments (0)

Plain Language - Writing Refresher

The government has tried several steps over the past few decades to encourage agencies to issue documents in plain language. Former Presidents Richard M. Nixon, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton all issued executive orders requiring various government documents to be written in plain English, and agencies have launched their own initiatives.

But readers trying to figure out what the bureaucrats are saying still complain about wording. So freshman Rep. Bruce Braley , D-Iowa, is trying again -- this time with a bill that would put the no-jargon requirement into law.

"House Will Try to Make Uncle Sam Use Plain English," CQ Midday Update, April 14, 2008

Plain Language in Government Communications Act of 2007, H.R.3548, S.2291

To enhance citizen access to Government information and services by establishing plain language as the standard style for Government documents issued to the public, and for other purposes.

Need help using "plain language?" See our 1-day course, "Writing Refresher: Critical Thinking and Writing."

April 14, 2008 05:27 PM   Link    Comments (0)

Statutory Construction

Statutory Construction: A Primer on How to Read and Understand Statutory Text

A Telephone Seminar

Learn general principles of statutory interpretation so that you can understand statutory text. Be apprised of the tools, conventions, and presumptions that are used to interpret statutory language. Topics covered include:

• Determining the intent of Congress
• Tools, not rules
• Considering other statutes and general federal laws
• Legislative history

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Todd Tatelman.

• Thursday, April 17, 2008
• 90 minutes: 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here

Statutory Construction: A Primer on How to Read and Understand Statutory Text Capitol Learning Audio Course Includes seminar materials. Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

April 14, 2008 09:47 AM   Link    Comments (0)

How to Read and Decipher the Department of Defense (DoD) Budget

How to Read and Decipher the Department of Defense (DoD) Budget: A Primer for Defense Industry Professionals

A Telephone Seminar

• Identify and locate the OMB and DoD budget documents you need, including the OMB Budget Appendix, OMB Analytical Perspectives, OMB historical tables, R-1s, P-1s, the DoD "Green Book," Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Defense-wide budget justification books, DoD financial management regulations, and DoD reprogramming actions.
• Understand basic budget terms, including the "national defense budget function," the Department of Defense budget, budget authority, outlays, obligations, "program, project, and activity," appropriations accounts, line items, activity groups, subactivity groups, program elements, projects within program elements, and working capital funds.
• Untangle how the overall national defense budget request is broken down into various appropriations bills and how CBO "scorekeeping" affects how budget totals in various bills are reported.
• The relationship between the defense authorization bill and defense appropriations bills.
• How to track congressional action on specific "earmark" requests.
• Calculate inflation-adjusted trends in the budget.
• Tools and techniques to make you more efficient.

Open Q&A with the faculty included: Stephen Daggett.

• Tuesday, April 15, 2008
• 90 minutes - 2 pm ET/1 pm CT/12 noon MT/11 am PT
• More information here.

And if you can't participate in the live program, get the audio course:

How to Read and Decipher the Department of Defense (DoD) Budget: A Primer for Defense Industry Professionals

Capitol Learning Audio Course

Includes seminar materials.

Audio Course on CD: $47 plus shipping and handling

April 12, 2008 07:37 AM   Link    Comments (0)

April 2008 Legislative, Communication, and Media Training from TheCapitol.Net

Our latest email update:
http://www.thecapitol.net/PublicPrograms/email2008/email_2008_April1.html

Also see our new Audio Course Bundles, money-saving packages of our popular Capitol Learning Audio Courses.

TheCapitol.Net, Inc.
>> Exclusive provider of Congressional Quarterly Executive Conferences.
>> Non-partisan training and publications that show how Washington works. TM

April 2, 2008 08:17 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Writing Refresher: Critical Thinking and Writing

Do you need to improve your writing skills? Communication skills are the key to efficient and effective operations in business and government. New employees should brush-up on their basic written communication and plain English skills, while experienced professionals, burdened by the additional workload caused by downsizing and budget cuts, can also benefit from this refresher course.

This 1-day course focuses on writing as a process and ways to apply that process to everyday assignments. Previous attendees include all staff levels including program managers, scientists and engineers, administrative assistants, legislative and budget analysts, vice presidents, paralegals, executive directors and attorneys.

"Writing Refresher: Critical Thinking and Writing: How to Compose Clear and Effective Reports, Letters, Email, and Memos," April 3, 2008 at the DC Bar Conference Center, 1250 H Street NW, Washington, DC

Bring this course to your site. This course and any combination of it's topics are available as custom on-site training for your organization. We have tailored this course for attorneys, program analysts, administrative assistants, scientists, and others.  For more information about how this training can help your members and staff, please contact your client liaison.

Course materials include personal copy of  "The Business Writer's Handbook," by Gerald Alred, Charles Brusaw, and Walter Oliu Plus a 70-plus page writing manual that includes a basic style guide.

March 20, 2008 05:17 PM   Link    Comments (0)

March - April 2008 Legislative, Research, Communication, and Media Training from TheCapitol.Net

To see our latest email update, see

http://www.thecapitol.net/PublicPrograms/email2008/email_2008_March11.html

Upcoming Courses

• Writing Refresher: Critical Thinking and Writing April 3, 2008
• Congressional Dynamics and the Legislative Process April 9, 2008
• Media Relations for Public Affairs Professionals May 6, 2008
• Advanced Media Relations May 7, 2008
• Crisis Communications Training May 8, 2008
• Working with Congress and Congressional Staff: Communicating Effectively with Capitol Hill May 14, 2008
• Understanding Congressional Budgeting and Appropriations May 16, 2008
• Public Affairs and the Internet: Advanced Techniques and Strategies May 20, 2008

Upcoming Telephone Seminars

• Conference Committees: How Congressional Work Gets Done March 18, 2008
• Earmarks: Results-Oriented Strategies and Tactics in Light of Statutory and Internal Congressional Rule Changes March 20, 2008
• What Your Member of Congress Can Do for You: Gallery Passes, Flags, Presidential Greetings, and Help with Federal Agencies April 8, 2008
• How to Read and Decipher the Department of Defense (DoD) Budget April 15, 2008
• Statutory Construction: A Primer on How to Read and Understand Statutory Text April 15, 2008
• Presidential-Congressional Relations: Rivals Sharing Power May 13, 2008
• Parliamentary Procedure of the U.S. Senate: Debate and Amendment May 20, 2008

TheCapitol.Net

>> Exclusive provider of Congressional Quarterly Executive Conferences.

>> Non-partisan training and publications that show how Washington works. TM

March 11, 2008 10:27 AM   Link    Comments (0)

Earmarks: Everything You Need to Know

This important course gives students a solid overview of the federal budget process, highlighting ways beneficiaries of earmarks, i.e., directed congressional appropriations, influence the legislative process. Students also learn how to formulate and implement political and lobbying strategies when making their case on the Hill.

Earmarks: Everything You Need to Know, 8:30 am - 4:15 pm, March 6, 2008, Washington, DC

For links to selected CRS Reports, legislation and articles on earmarks, see our Federal Budget Links and Research Tools. Also see our blog posts about earmarks and OMB's Earmarks database.

March 3, 2008 05:07 PM   Link    Comments (0)

February - March 2008 Legislative, Communication, and Media Training from TheCapitol.Net

To see our latest email update, see

http://www.thecapitol.net/PublicPrograms/email2008/email_2008_February19.html

• The President's Budget February 26, 2008
• Working with Congress and Congressional Staff: Communicating Effectively with Capitol Hill February 27, 2008
• The Defense Budget February 29, 2008
• Using Grassroots, Coalitions, and the Media to Get Your Message Heard: Washington Advocacy and Education Campaigns March 4, 2008
• Earmarks: Everything You Need to Know March 6, 2008
• Speechwriting: Preparing Speeches and Oral Presentations March 28, 2008

TheCapitol.Net

>> Exclusive provider of Congressional Quarterly Executive Conferences.

>> Non-partisan training and publications that show how Washington works. TM

February 25, 2008 05:27 PM   Link    Comments (0)