1.   At a time when domestic budgets are strained in many countries, the conference was unable to win financial commitments from governments to create new programs for women.

2.   At the same time, soaring Medicaid costs are straining state budgets and adding to pressure for tax increases, a further concern for employers.

3.   Dean said that buying safety equipment and maintaining security at critical facilities would strain state budgets that are already overburdened.

4.   Harrington says the Red Sox want Roger Clemens back and will strain their budget to the limit to get him.

5.   Sluggish growth and high unemployment strain the budget by eroding tax revenues and prompting the government to dip into its coffers to put people back to work.

6.   State budgets are strained, welfare reform limits are kicking in, and charities, seeing donations decline, are concerned, especially as winter approaches.

7.   Some school boards and superintendents say state and local education budgets will be strained by its demands.

8.   Still, without straining the budget, without missing a mortgage or car payment, I manage to accumulate a few more bottles each year.

9.   The additional costs of keeping anchors, reporters and crews on duty virtually around the clock also will strain budgets.

10.   The social burden on governments whose limited budgets are already strained can also be expected to grow.