Battlefield Tourist

Bad news is like diarrhea: I t sneaks up on you and never stops coming.

Mr. Tate,

Thank you for your follow-up message. I regret that we cannot assist with
your project. Best wishes for success in finding the remaining $20,000 you
need for your program.


Jonathan T. Howe
Executive Director
The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations


-----Original Message-----
From: Dave Tate [mailto:dtate38@cox.net]
Sent: Wednesday, February 18, 2004 6:45 PM
To: Doreen Flippin
Subject: Re: Funding Request


Dr. Howe,

Thank you for the kind response. We have been fortunate enough to be able
to account for all but $20,000 needed dollars, so please reconsider helping
us complete this project. Also, we have no doubts this will not only air
nationally, but internationally.

Thank you again,

Sincerely,

Dave Tate

There may be a breakthrough....

This could be potentially interesting but I don't know anything about you! More information would be extremely useful.
I look forward to it.
Deborah
-----Original Message-----
From: Dave Tate [mailto:dtate38@cox.net]
Sent: 26 February 2004 06:59
To: C4 Indyfund
Subject: Proposal - David Tate


Hello,

I am writing to see if you'd be interested in a project I am working on. I have been preparing to go to Afghanistan for many months now, but have run out of funding. I have an embed slot for six weeks with frontline and PRT teams (American) in Afghanistan available immediately. I have worked hard on this and it would be a shame if I could not fill this embed slot, especially considering the impending US offensive set to start any time in an effort to find Osama. My ultimate goal is a reality style docu-series.

If you are interested in hearing more, I will send you a formal proposal letter with much more information.

Sincerely,

David Tate/USA

Could CH4 be the ticket?

So the new approach is to go after newspapers, magazines, tv, whatever. Seriously.. I have the ability to embed with the US Army within 5 days (gotta get a rush job on the ol' Afghan visa). That has to be worth something to someone. I mean, I have a front row ticket to the operation that will go after bin Laden, and no way to get there.

Sorry, one more thing, Major. I do understand the concept of local coverage. The idea I would be entertaining would be to show the deployment experience. Obviously nothing over interesting, but interesting and pertinent as well. Please keep in mind that you will get an archive copy of every inch of video I shoot. It is as important to me to preserve this for history as it is to make a movie. For some reason I'm having a hell of a time finding capital. With that in mind, do not be shocked if this is scaled back to one man. To be honest, it would be easier for you, just harder for me.

Talk to you soon.

Dave Tate

----- Original Message -----
From: Sater, Richard MAJ
To: 'Dave Tate'
Cc: Hilferty, Bryan LTC (CFC)
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2004 2:06 AM
Subject: RE: Query


Dave --

It's possible, but usually media that embed with a unit have a vested interest in the unit. For example, Watertown (NY) media embedded with the 10th Mountain Division, as the unit's home -- Fort Drum -- is located in Watertown.

I will info Lt Col Brian Hilferty on this message -- he is more familiar with the procedures for attempting an embed with a unit from the US. I will ask him to reply to your message. Under separate cover, I will send him a copy of your proposal for your 13 WEEKS program so that he has an idea of the scope of your project.

// Maj Richard Sater //
-----Original Message-----
From: Dave Tate [mailto:dtate38@cox.net]
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2004 10:40 AM
To: Sater, Richard MAJ
Subject: Query


I am thinking about just this. Imagine this scenario:

Meet unit in US and fly to Bagram. While unit gets ready to go into the field, I go to the firebase they'd be going to, then hook back up with them. In the meantime, I can get in with a different combat unit and spend some time with PRT?

Would that be even remotely possible?

Things are getting a bit more antsy there... I may be too late.

Dave Tate

More bad news. Other than the fact that my house is falling apart: Every once in a while I look up an old employer that I have known since I left his business on fine terms 7 or eight years ago. Usually small talk bs. Sometimes I have popped a comment his way about doing a little philanthropy... It is for PBS afterall, right? He's never given me an impression he isn't interested in what I try to do. So I figured with my nice looking grant proposal, a big newspaper article, and a real sense that what I'm talking about is valid, I decided to make "the" approach. Actually reduced to begging from rich people. I know I can make this work for $10,000... Shouldn't be too hard. I mean afterall, it is tax deductible.
So with my best in hand I head up to his office. The last time I was here, I didn't meet up with Richard, but did give his long time assistant, Gayle, a package with some information. I heard nothing. So the question is: Is he, or is he not interested? Obviously, I assume he is NOT, unless he's so busy he never saw the first package. To be sure, I ask for Gayle again. Like usual, she greets me with a smile. I ask her in a hushed tone if she thought Richard may be interested, or if I was wasting my time. She told me I was wasting my time. Richest guy in town, too. At least she was candid and nice about it. That's all I needed. So I left.
From here it was off to a local high school to pick up some tapes for a basketball memory tape I'm working on. Just enough to cover the truck for a couple of months (what about that $900/month consolidation loan!!!). Thirty miles later I was at the radio station doing a generic national piece on Bush's retarded idea for a constitutional amendment. I have NEVER heard of someone interested in spending so much money for so many different things. He has no focus. Whatever... his point made, conservative base solidified, and now another election about sex... or is it war? It's the economy STUPID!
Got a few hours off because I agreed to work late to cover "The Passion". Missed the first 55 minutes, the last 80 was a non-stop ass whoopin' for poor Jesus. Whether or not he was the Messiah, you all debate that. If the punishment he endured as a man was half that depicted, it would be amazing. Brutal as it gets. I left the theater like I did after Private Ryan. Wow. Anti-semetic? I can see where there will be fallout. As a spiritual guy with no real "God" (yet), I certainly felt like the movie made the Romans out as trying to spare Christ's life. The Jewish elders demanded death... and so it was. So why would this be inciteful? Sitting there as a non-believer, I was getting a bit pissed at the "Jews". Of course for me, it was the "movie" Jews and I was absorbing it in a historical light, albeit not necessarily "the gospel". However, I have found over the years to be a bit more socially educated than the better part of my environment, wherever I've been (except U of M). With that said, I can see how ignorance mixed with this movie could having a long-lasting negative effect. I also wonder how young people who see this will look at the story of Christ now. I wonder if Mel Gibson's legacy to the world (other than the legendary "Mad Max") will not be unlike that of King James and his pesky re-writes. I think this because as I grew up, I envisioned Christ being nailed to the cross, but I certainly could have never imagined the image I NOW have about this event. Messiah or not, according to Gibson, this man endured like very few have ever endured. ***PARENTS*** Talk to your kids FIRST and explain the historical aspect of this event. Do not breed more ignorance and hate!!
I kind of liken the Jewish judges to that of my image of Sistanni in Iraq today. These men wield unwavering power and probably much more so 2,000 years ago. I can believe the Jews were threatened and I can believe they would crucify Jesus as a blasphemer. Happened all the time in every culture known to man, then through the early 1900's you could argue... or later. Certainly nothing at all to hold anyone, race, or creed responsible for.
Movie let out around 9:00 and the crowd looked like they just got in a car wreck. Three theaters for a sneak peak the night before official release. All predominately filled with congregations from two churches. The movies were separated by... maybe a minute. So as I walked into each theater to see the crowd size, I walked into the exact scene three times in a row... just like a movie!!! I swear, I'll give a million bucks to find anyone else that has every had that happen!
Inside, the crowd was glued to the screen. One person left the time I was there (and came back). Many people holding their hands over their eyes or mouth (or both). I confess, the spike to the hand scene and the spear scene and the... the whole thing made me ache. As realistic and brutal as you will ever see I'd imagine. And it was that look that spilled out into the lobby in three waves.
So my job is to get reaction, go back to the station and do three wraps, four teases, and four headlines... plus three slugs. It's 9:30, been going since 10:00 am. Did I mention my ND also wanted some cuts and copy on local gay reaction to the president's idea. Luckily, I know lotso gay people. Unluckily, I'm a perfectionist and felt bad about my earlier work... So I had to make tomorrow's work rock.
I did three similar, yet different stories. The first was with a bite with a guy talking about interpretation and how everyone's is different. The other two were with different woman that were visibly moved by what they just saw. A lot of folks I talked to were having trouble processing the movie. I guess I can understand that if you have Jesus in your heart and saw that. Most here tonight did. It'll be interesting to see the rest of the world's take.
One more thing: Got an email from the Major in Afghanistan. At least the idea is not completely out of the question. In fact, I think it would be interesting to see the story begin here in the states. We'll see.

Dave --

Unfortunately, it's next to impossible. We've tried to fight this before and lost every time. All flights coming here are coming here for a reason -- to transport troops, supplies, equipment, or mail into the theater of operations ... It's very difficult to justify giving a slot to a reporter, unfortunately. An possible exception is if you are embedded with a unit from the US -- you would travel with that unit and remain with it throughout your visit.

Once you get in country, however, we can provide transportation because we have regular re-supply flights and a variety of airframes (fixed wing and helo), so it's much easier.

// Maj Sater //
-----Original Message-----
From: Dave Tate dtate38@cox.net
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2004 7:46 PM
To: Sater, Richard MAJ
Subject: Query


Major,

I realize the rules of MAC flight usage, but was wondering regardless: What's the chance I can catch a MAC flight from the states to Bagram? I think it would be an interesting view for my story.

Dave Tate
13weeks/WBRA

I realize in a process like this that patience is a virtue. Unfortunately, that isn't always my best quality. With travel expenses and allowance for time spent unfufilled, there is no way this project will happen. Today all sorts of talk about new operations in Afghanistan. If something doesn't happen soon, I'm going to miss it. I've been reduced to begging for $10,000 to cover expenses to go alone. Fingers are crossed. I'm hoping I can shave off plane fare with the Army's help.

Major,

I realize the rules of MAC flight usage, but was wondering regardless: What's the chance I can catch a MAC flight from the states to Bagram? I think it would be an interesting view for my story.

Dave Tate
13weeks/WBRA

Well... I'm definately starting to sweat. I was supposed to close at the pizza joint today, but suckered someone into doing it for me so I can try and complete my Roanoke Catholic promo campaign. Unfortunately when I got home, there was some bad news:

Mr. Tate,

Thank you for your message regarding funding in the amount of $118,713.00
for a television program providing in-depth coverage of underreported
current events affecting the United States. It is an excellent project and
undoubtedly will be an important contribution. I regret, however, that we
will be unable to provide the financial support you need.

Our grants in public television take the form of completion funding for
major educational television series that have firm commitments for airing
nationally on PBS. Our resources for PBS programs are relatively limited
and the competition for funds is always intense. Therefore, we are able to
support only a few of the many excellent proposals each year.

I am sorry that we cannot assist and wish you every success in finding other
sources of support for your important program.


Jonathan T. Howe
Executive Director
The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations

This foundation was not at the top of my list, but it is definately a bummer, not to mention that we're running out of options. I wonder why, if it's such a great idea, why I didn't even have the opportunity for an interview???

Good news today is that Col Brown over at Soldier of Fortune is interested in some articles... if I ever make it there.

I can't believe I made it through the primary season without having to cover it. Not what I was thinking in my pre-work edit session. Put three good hours in on a project for a Catholic church. After that, shower, lunch, and off to work by 1:00. Since we cover such a small area, news radio is a little different than when I was in TV. I haven't decide the exact comparison just yet, but when I do...
So I got rewarded with a lead story about impending water and sewer rate changes and updated the local "hot button" issue. This is actually an interesting boring story. World War II era stadium (Victory Stadium) vs. New Stadium/amphitheater downtown. Looks like progress is going to lose this fight.
On the grant side, some great news. A place I sent an email to late last night (with letter of inquiry), promptly got back in touch:

David:

Thanks for your inquiry. ### will be placing on its website at the end of this month an RFP for a Public Affairs Programming Initiative: America at a Crossroads. The subject matter is how America and the world have changed since 9/11 and the Wars in Afghanistan & Iraq. Your proposed program might fall within the parameters of the initiative. If you think so, I encourage you to apply for a grant through this process. If you have any further questions, please contact ## who is currently managing this process. His email addresses is ##.

John ##

Vice President

TV Program Development

After reading this, I was VERY happy. No doubt that is what we would fall under. My writings have always talked about the post-911 situation. In fact, my travels have started since 9-11... It's all I know.

Rule of International Travel #1 - If you have an Israeli stamp in your passport, get a second passport.

Like every Monday and Tuesday, I work as a General Assignment reporter at News Radio 960, WFIR. I have to admit: I like local radio news better than local tv news. I guess the real difference is that even though both serve the same purpose, therefore lack content, at least you don't have to show your face for all to make fun of. The things I hear! Watching local news in many households is akin to watching Beavis & Butthead. Instead of ripping music video, people rip on local news people. Now there's a show idea.
Kerry, Edwards, and Clark have swung through the area. For once, people seem to be buzzing about voting. Today is the Virginia primary. At least I know what I'll be working on tonight. Yesterday's toll: 5 stories about a 2 car wreck, 3 stories about an abduction, 3 stories about voter expectations. Four of these were wraps, one live.

On the grant front: The Ford Foundation shot us down. That was expected. Their mission doesn't really fit what we offer. I could see other ideas I have being better accepted. In all I have lines out to six foundations. The foundation I have most hope for, The MacArthur Foundation, I have yet to hear back from. PBS (national) sent a letter of receipt this morning. Tick, tock....

Major:

Any questions or ideas? We also would like to spend time with a PRT (maybe a week). Your ideas are anticipated.

Dave Tate

ps - Major, for me this is the planning phase. If the funds don't come, this won't happen. So feel free to just give me simple thoughts.

===============================================================

Mr. Tate --

Greetings.

Provincial Reconstruction Teams offer great opportunities to see what is happening in different parts of the country. PRTs facilitate reconstruction -- team members patrol their area and visit with local leaders and so on. It's a good, hopeful story and very visual as well, showing the interaction of coalition troops with the local population. PRTs are the future of reconstruction here.

Keep us informed as to the status of your project's funding. When we know you're coming, we'll work out the specific details of an itinerary for you. Depending on when you can come, we may have other things to offer, but the PRT story is ongoing -- and will get bigger, as the number of PRTs in Afghanistan continues to expand.

Maj Steve Moon (who is CC'd on this message) will be your point of contact at our press center. He will work with you to determine the specifics of your itinerary. We look forward to your visit.

// Maj Richard Sater //



Well.... everything is in place but the funds. Working on that as we speak. Can't believe we are so close. I just hope History doesn't repeat itself!

So why should you get a professional to prepare your grant?

I decided that after two years of trying, that it was do or die. It kind of reminds me of one night in Iraq when I had to make the decision to come home. Not this time. If I was making a last stand, I better make it. So for a jaw dropping $2,800, I had a grant professionally prepared. So why in the hell would someone near bankruptcy, with two part time jobs, and a part time business be sending out $2,800 to get a grant proposal done? Do or die.
After getting the proposal back, I understand why. Well written and well researched, the people at GPRS took what information I provided them, and sculpted it into a very professional, expanded proposal that I would never have thought to do. You'd have to see it to understand. It is very impressive.
For instance: Our goal is to portray the US soldier in Afghanistan in a complete way. From our description and info provided, their staff researched our goal and literally wrote a 15 page report broken into objectives, summaries, etc... The full proposal itself is also completely laid out in a way that should give it "that edge". In fact, the sight of the proposal, the content of what we want to deliver, and with our partnership with the local PBS, I'm really feeling confident the money will prove well spent. I do hope so. I told my wife the grant was just over $1,000. One thing's for sure: I'll know whether or not she even pays attention to this blog.

Freelancing has many different aspects to it. There's never one road. I certainly do not claim to have taken the normal "freelance" route... then again, I'm not your typical "freelancer". Regardless, if I don't get this idea off the ground VERY soon, I'll be shopping North Carolina and Richmond for a job.
So I find myself in this wierd crux: First. I'm close to possibly achieving my dream. Never been closer. Never been so far away. Second. I could be moving within the next three months. Third. I'm almost bankrupt. I guess that could be sealed when my furnace craped out this week.
With that said, you can understand that in my free evenings I deliver pies for Domino's. Flexible schedule, $12-$15 an hour. What the hell, we have a Japanese car. So I deliver about four nights a week, am a news radio reporter two days a week, and spend the rest of my time editing paying projects while crying in my beer. It'll all be over soon. One way or another, Heidi and myself will be in a very different place in a few months than we are today.

Tomorrow: Why get a professional grant prepared?

Today is like I remember Christmas being when I was a kid in Michigan. Every time I heard a truck go by... I'd run to the window to look. Finally around 11:30, the FedEx guy showed up and was I excited. I have to confess that I tore open the package just like the old days. Inside: Our finished grant proposal. It looks so good I can't believe it. I have no doubts we will get funding.
I immediately got dressed and made it up to Virginia Western to show Ben. He was pretty happy as well. From there it was off to WBRA to get some final inserts for our hardcopy version of the proposal. Met with the GM, Jack Neale and the CFO. Both very happy. I am very encouraged at this point that things are finally coming together.
It took no time once I got home to send of my first lettr of inquiry. Most funding sources have specific criteria for applying. This particular one wants a two page letter of introduction which basically summarizes our project. I had already been in touch with one source that seems especially plausable. Actually, they seem ideal for all of the ideas I want to pursue, so I obviously hope a relationship with this foundation works out.