Opportunity Finance Network

We Shall Be Free

Now It's Legit. Not long ago I spotlighted a liberation song written and sung by Garth Brooks, the country singer who is not most people's idea of a substance-filled artist. I love the song. A new cover of the song might just give it the credibility it needs. Sam Moore--the "Sam" in the 1960's R&B duo "Sam & Dave"--has release a new album that features the song. In fact, the album--"Overnight Sensation"--is a great genre-crossing mix of R&B, gospel, rock, and crossing featuring Moore singing with (among others) Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Sting and Sheila E. (on a cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd's "None of Us Are Free), and others. It's my new favorite album.

Political Realignment?

David Broder Speaks Out. David Broder, the "dean" of political columnists in this country who writes for the Washington Post, wrote a remarkable column in today's paper that predicts the emergence of a new, centrist political party in the U.S. The catalyst, he suggests, is the McCain-Powell-Graham-led resistance to President Bush's proposal to re-define the Geneva Conventions.

A Loss

Linda LeFever. Linda LeFever, Executive Director of the Northside Community Development Fund in Pittsburgh, PA, passed away earlier this week after a battle with lung cancer. Linda was a passionate and effective advocate for her community, her organization, her values, and our industry.

Our hearts go out to Linda's family and loved ones, as well as the staff and Board at Northside Community Development Fund.

Thanks to NCCED

Closing Doors. Yesterday the National Congress for Community Economic Development (NCCED) ceased operations. Founded in 1970, NCCED was the trade association for community development corporations. While many CDCs continue serving their markets, the industry has a whole continues to transform.