Thursday, April 29, 2004
TheBostonChannel.com - News - Memo Raises Suspicion, Questions Among Lawmakers
Romney Says He Is Comfortable With Terror Communication
BOSTON -- The government's admission that stowaways with possible ties to terrorism entered Boston on liquefied natural gas tankers was a hot topic on Beacon Hill Thursday.
Video
NewsCenter 5's Janet Wu reported that the fact that the original allegations that the government knew about the stowaways' possible links were quickly denied left some legislators with an air of suspicion.
Sen. Edward Kennedy said the memo released Wednesday showed an appalling lack of communications between federal and state government, but Gov. Mitt Romney saw it differently.
'I'm comfortable that the information I received today on the threats that exist today is coming out on an open and frequent basis,' said Romney.
But some terrorism experts say they do not believe federal officials are sharing all information with local officials.
'I wish I could say yes, but I cannot,' said terrorism expert Edith Flynn.
In a letter to Rep. Edward Markey this week, the Department of Homeland Security admitted that at least twice, in 1995 and in May 2001, stowaways on Algerian LNG tankers came into Boston -- stowaways with possible ti"
Romney Says He Is Comfortable With Terror Communication
BOSTON -- The government's admission that stowaways with possible ties to terrorism entered Boston on liquefied natural gas tankers was a hot topic on Beacon Hill Thursday.
Video
NewsCenter 5's Janet Wu reported that the fact that the original allegations that the government knew about the stowaways' possible links were quickly denied left some legislators with an air of suspicion.
Sen. Edward Kennedy said the memo released Wednesday showed an appalling lack of communications between federal and state government, but Gov. Mitt Romney saw it differently.
'I'm comfortable that the information I received today on the threats that exist today is coming out on an open and frequent basis,' said Romney.
But some terrorism experts say they do not believe federal officials are sharing all information with local officials.
'I wish I could say yes, but I cannot,' said terrorism expert Edith Flynn.
In a letter to Rep. Edward Markey this week, the Department of Homeland Security admitted that at least twice, in 1995 and in May 2001, stowaways on Algerian LNG tankers came into Boston -- stowaways with possible ti"
KIROTV.com - News - Huge Gaps In Port Security Exposed: "Chris Halsne
KIRO 7 Eyewitness News Investigative Reporter
UPDATED: 7:43 PM PDT April 29, 2004
SEATTLE -- KIRO Team 7 Investigators go undercover to repeatedly expose huge gaps in security at the Port of Seattle.
Video
Based on our warning, security has already changed -- making it tougher for potential terrorists and dangerous cargo to enter ships.
Investigative Reporter Chris Halsne spent several months punching holes in security up and down the coast.
KIRO Team 7 Investigators documented dozens of violations of access control right here and at several other terminals, getting next to ships and valuable cargo containers was too easy.
We can't share with you all the flaws, but it's safe to say getting into the port didn't take us more than a few seconds.
Every Saturday morning, trucks roll onto the Seattle docks. No need to slow down for this guard shack at Terminal 18. It's empty."
KIRO 7 Eyewitness News Investigative Reporter
UPDATED: 7:43 PM PDT April 29, 2004
SEATTLE -- KIRO Team 7 Investigators go undercover to repeatedly expose huge gaps in security at the Port of Seattle.
Video
Based on our warning, security has already changed -- making it tougher for potential terrorists and dangerous cargo to enter ships.
Investigative Reporter Chris Halsne spent several months punching holes in security up and down the coast.
KIRO Team 7 Investigators documented dozens of violations of access control right here and at several other terminals, getting next to ships and valuable cargo containers was too easy.
We can't share with you all the flaws, but it's safe to say getting into the port didn't take us more than a few seconds.
Every Saturday morning, trucks roll onto the Seattle docks. No need to slow down for this guard shack at Terminal 18. It's empty."
CBS News | L.A. Malls Get Terror Threat | April 29, 2004�10:03:24
(CBS/AP) A terrorism task force was investigating an 'uncorroborated' threat to a Los Angeles area shopping mall where federal officials say an attack may have been planned for Thursday.
'As of now, the information is uncorroborated and the credibility of the source is unknown,' the LAPD said in a statement.
No specific shopping mall was named, but the warning indicated a mall near the Federal Building in West Los Angeles could be targeted.
The LAPD will increase patrols at shopping malls in the city and asked mall operators to beef up security while a joint terrorism task force investigates. The department said it would have no further comment beyond the statement issued late Wednesday.
Mayor James Hahn's spokeswoman Shannon Murphy said that while the threat was uncorroborated, the city was 'asking all Los Angeles residents to go on with their daily lives while remaining vigilant and alert.'
The Los Angeles Times reports the threat came in an anonymous phone call to federal homeland security officials. "
(CBS/AP) A terrorism task force was investigating an 'uncorroborated' threat to a Los Angeles area shopping mall where federal officials say an attack may have been planned for Thursday.
'As of now, the information is uncorroborated and the credibility of the source is unknown,' the LAPD said in a statement.
No specific shopping mall was named, but the warning indicated a mall near the Federal Building in West Los Angeles could be targeted.
The LAPD will increase patrols at shopping malls in the city and asked mall operators to beef up security while a joint terrorism task force investigates. The department said it would have no further comment beyond the statement issued late Wednesday.
Mayor James Hahn's spokeswoman Shannon Murphy said that while the threat was uncorroborated, the city was 'asking all Los Angeles residents to go on with their daily lives while remaining vigilant and alert.'
The Los Angeles Times reports the threat came in an anonymous phone call to federal homeland security officials. "
IHT: Olympics: Security worries for the dream team
Four months before the Athens Summer Olympics, the Dream Team roster is incomplete and it is uncertain whether the players will stay in official Olympic housing on the Queen Mary 2, according to officials from the NBA and USA Basketball.
The overarching international concern as the Summer Games approach is security. For basketball officials, the more ambiguity, the better.
Like the divers, submarines and sea-bed detectors set to secure the Mediterranean port of Piraeus, plans behind and beneath the scenes are in place to protect the highest-profile athletes at the Games.
The Athens Organizing Committee is spending more than $1 billion on security, more than triple what was spent at the 2000 Summer Games in Sydney, Australia. On Monday, the International Olympic Committee announced that it had secured a $170 million insurance policy for the Games, protecting against cancellation because of terrorism or natural disaster.
The marquee announcing the U.S. men's basketball team at least lists a starting five - Tim Duncan, Tracy McGrady, Allen Iverson, Jermaine O'Neal and Mike Bibby. But USA Basketball is still lacking commitments from four first-team all-NBA players - Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, Jason Kidd and Kevin Garnett.
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'No one has said that they're not willing to participate because of security concerns,' Jim Tooley, the executive director of USA Basketball, said Wednesday in a telephone interview. 'We've been in constant communication with players, educating them and training, making sure we can give comfort level they need so they can concentrate on competing.'
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Injury, family commitments, exhaustion - and in Bryant's case, a trial this summer - are the primary reasons players do not want to go to Athens. While no players"
Four months before the Athens Summer Olympics, the Dream Team roster is incomplete and it is uncertain whether the players will stay in official Olympic housing on the Queen Mary 2, according to officials from the NBA and USA Basketball.
The overarching international concern as the Summer Games approach is security. For basketball officials, the more ambiguity, the better.
Like the divers, submarines and sea-bed detectors set to secure the Mediterranean port of Piraeus, plans behind and beneath the scenes are in place to protect the highest-profile athletes at the Games.
The Athens Organizing Committee is spending more than $1 billion on security, more than triple what was spent at the 2000 Summer Games in Sydney, Australia. On Monday, the International Olympic Committee announced that it had secured a $170 million insurance policy for the Games, protecting against cancellation because of terrorism or natural disaster.
The marquee announcing the U.S. men's basketball team at least lists a starting five - Tim Duncan, Tracy McGrady, Allen Iverson, Jermaine O'Neal and Mike Bibby. But USA Basketball is still lacking commitments from four first-team all-NBA players - Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, Jason Kidd and Kevin Garnett.
.
'No one has said that they're not willing to participate because of security concerns,' Jim Tooley, the executive director of USA Basketball, said Wednesday in a telephone interview. 'We've been in constant communication with players, educating them and training, making sure we can give comfort level they need so they can concentrate on competing.'
.
Injury, family commitments, exhaustion - and in Bryant's case, a trial this summer - are the primary reasons players do not want to go to Athens. While no players"
Business News - Olympic dealmakers seek safety at sea
28.04.2004
By A. CRAIG COPETAS
On the blustery Athens waterfront, luxury yacht broker Karina Hadjisava buttons her Chanel knit jacket and says the champagne charter fleet of Pontos & Condoyannis now packs the muscle to protect her Wall St clients from terrorist attack during the 2004 Olympic Games.
'The ultimate two-week package is called amplified security and it costs US$500,000,' says Hadjisava, who is negotiating leases for her firm's 100 vessels this August to house Olympic revellers from companies such as McDonald's and American Express.
That security cocoon includes a US$30,000-a-day yacht, helicopters, bodyguards, a convoy of armour-plated limousines and a motorcycle escort that promises accelerated transport along a restricted road network to and from any of the 38 Olympic venues.
As an added security measure against terrorism, yacht brokers in the US and Greece say high-profile businessmen and corporations are forgoing hotels and going down to the sea for ships, including the recently christened Omega, an 82m floating stronghold that sleeps 32 guests and comes with a crew of 21 sailors.
'We are looking at various entertainment and hospitality options and are in the process of making our decision,' American Express spokesman Tony Mitchell says about his company's interest in Olympic yacht life. "
28.04.2004
By A. CRAIG COPETAS
On the blustery Athens waterfront, luxury yacht broker Karina Hadjisava buttons her Chanel knit jacket and says the champagne charter fleet of Pontos & Condoyannis now packs the muscle to protect her Wall St clients from terrorist attack during the 2004 Olympic Games.
'The ultimate two-week package is called amplified security and it costs US$500,000,' says Hadjisava, who is negotiating leases for her firm's 100 vessels this August to house Olympic revellers from companies such as McDonald's and American Express.
That security cocoon includes a US$30,000-a-day yacht, helicopters, bodyguards, a convoy of armour-plated limousines and a motorcycle escort that promises accelerated transport along a restricted road network to and from any of the 38 Olympic venues.
As an added security measure against terrorism, yacht brokers in the US and Greece say high-profile businessmen and corporations are forgoing hotels and going down to the sea for ships, including the recently christened Omega, an 82m floating stronghold that sleeps 32 guests and comes with a crew of 21 sailors.
'We are looking at various entertainment and hospitality options and are in the process of making our decision,' American Express spokesman Tony Mitchell says about his company's interest in Olympic yacht life. "
Autonomy to power Olympic surveillance: ZDNet Australia: News: Software
By Graeme Wearden, ZDNet UK
26 April 2004
Software from Autonomy will be helping Greek security forces to look for terrorists at this year's Olympic games.
Technology that was originally developed to help companies to organise and access information on their IT systems will play a role in attempting to prevent terrorist attacks on the Olympic Games this summer.
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), a US company that has been awarded the contract to provide IT security at the Olympics, signed a deal with UK software developer Autonomy this week.
The software will be deployed by the Greek police to monitor communications traffic for words and phrases that could suggest terrorist activity.
'Autonomy's software will be used to help automate the processes of analysing, routing and delivering content, irrespective of format or storage location, and monitor potentially suspicious activity to help increase the efficacy of intelligence operations,' said Autonomy in a statement this week, adding that 'enormous amounts of data in both English and Greek' would be analysed automatically during the event.
No one from Autonomy was available to discuss the deal in more detail.
Information published by SAIC about the system it's developing for the Games, which is called C41, suggests that the Greek authorities will be monitoring communications traffic carried by Internet service providers and telecommunications companies. "
By Graeme Wearden, ZDNet UK
26 April 2004
Software from Autonomy will be helping Greek security forces to look for terrorists at this year's Olympic games.
Technology that was originally developed to help companies to organise and access information on their IT systems will play a role in attempting to prevent terrorist attacks on the Olympic Games this summer.
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), a US company that has been awarded the contract to provide IT security at the Olympics, signed a deal with UK software developer Autonomy this week.
The software will be deployed by the Greek police to monitor communications traffic for words and phrases that could suggest terrorist activity.
'Autonomy's software will be used to help automate the processes of analysing, routing and delivering content, irrespective of format or storage location, and monitor potentially suspicious activity to help increase the efficacy of intelligence operations,' said Autonomy in a statement this week, adding that 'enormous amounts of data in both English and Greek' would be analysed automatically during the event.
No one from Autonomy was available to discuss the deal in more detail.
Information published by SAIC about the system it's developing for the Games, which is called C41, suggests that the Greek authorities will be monitoring communications traffic carried by Internet service providers and telecommunications companies. "
Port Authority supervisor plans to resign
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEWARK, N.J. -- A maintenance supervisor for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey plans to resign after an investigation revealed his personal use of a $155,000 boat intended for homeland security patrols.
The report by the authority's inspector general also found that employees spent $130,000 to build a permanent floating dock and ramp for the boat at Port Newark, after first spending $14,000 for a dock that could not accommodate the boat.
Authority workers also approved purchases of inappropriate, optional equipment on the boat, including fishing rod holders, a bait well and tackle box. The agency bought the 27-foot Shamrock 270 Mackinaw in August 2002 to patrol New York and New Jersey ports in search of suspicious activity.
The authority's board never approved the dock or boat payments because the sum was too low to require its approval - a policy that is now being reviewed, authority spokesman Steve Coleman said."
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEWARK, N.J. -- A maintenance supervisor for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey plans to resign after an investigation revealed his personal use of a $155,000 boat intended for homeland security patrols.
The report by the authority's inspector general also found that employees spent $130,000 to build a permanent floating dock and ramp for the boat at Port Newark, after first spending $14,000 for a dock that could not accommodate the boat.
Authority workers also approved purchases of inappropriate, optional equipment on the boat, including fishing rod holders, a bait well and tackle box. The agency bought the 27-foot Shamrock 270 Mackinaw in August 2002 to patrol New York and New Jersey ports in search of suspicious activity.
The authority's board never approved the dock or boat payments because the sum was too low to require its approval - a policy that is now being reviewed, authority spokesman Steve Coleman said."
Tuesday, April 27, 2004
TCS: Tech Central Station - Homeland Security and Congress
By James Gilmore et. al. Published 04/27/2004
There is an important decision looming before the Congress. The question is whether to extend the House Select Committee on Homeland Security and, if so, what authority it should have. Unfortunately, a parade of powerful House committee chairmen -- most of whom are also members of the Select Committee -- argue that matters of Homeland Security might be handled just as well by existing Standing Committees with jurisdiction over various homeland security agencies and issues.
We suggest not. The congressionally-mandated Advisory Panel on which we served, starting with its first report to the President and the Congress in 1999, continuously argued for just such a structure in each House of the Congress -- one with legislative and oversight authority. Our five years of work underscored that homeland security budgets, legislation, and oversight cannot be effectively handled exclusively by the dozens of committees and subcommittees. Doing so simply increases the likelihood that scarce resources for securing the homeland will not be applied across the federal government -- and for that matter in states and communities -- in a way that promotes unity of effort.
There needs to be a focal point in the Congress for the Executive Branch to present a national homeland security strategy and supporting plans, programs, and budgets, plus a legislative 'clearinghouse' where relevant measures are considered and coordinated. This requirement has obviously become more, not less, important with the creation of the Department of Homeland Security and the impact of securing the homeland and hometowns, on every function that government performs.
Homeland Security is too important to be caught up in issues of committee jurisdictional turf. Moreover, with concurrent or sequential jurisdiction with other committees, everyone could have ample opportunity to address, in the committee structure, homeland security matters. Congress has shown tremendous leadership in articulating the value of coordination among federal agencies and with states and communities to secure the homeland. The Select Committee on Homeland Security has, in very short order, proven to be the valuable internal tool for the House to practice what it preaches. It should continue to lead by example.
By James Gilmore et. al. Published 04/27/2004
There is an important decision looming before the Congress. The question is whether to extend the House Select Committee on Homeland Security and, if so, what authority it should have. Unfortunately, a parade of powerful House committee chairmen -- most of whom are also members of the Select Committee -- argue that matters of Homeland Security might be handled just as well by existing Standing Committees with jurisdiction over various homeland security agencies and issues.
We suggest not. The congressionally-mandated Advisory Panel on which we served, starting with its first report to the President and the Congress in 1999, continuously argued for just such a structure in each House of the Congress -- one with legislative and oversight authority. Our five years of work underscored that homeland security budgets, legislation, and oversight cannot be effectively handled exclusively by the dozens of committees and subcommittees. Doing so simply increases the likelihood that scarce resources for securing the homeland will not be applied across the federal government -- and for that matter in states and communities -- in a way that promotes unity of effort.
There needs to be a focal point in the Congress for the Executive Branch to present a national homeland security strategy and supporting plans, programs, and budgets, plus a legislative 'clearinghouse' where relevant measures are considered and coordinated. This requirement has obviously become more, not less, important with the creation of the Department of Homeland Security and the impact of securing the homeland and hometowns, on every function that government performs.
Homeland Security is too important to be caught up in issues of committee jurisdictional turf. Moreover, with concurrent or sequential jurisdiction with other committees, everyone could have ample opportunity to address, in the committee structure, homeland security matters. Congress has shown tremendous leadership in articulating the value of coordination among federal agencies and with states and communities to secure the homeland. The Select Committee on Homeland Security has, in very short order, proven to be the valuable internal tool for the House to practice what it preaches. It should continue to lead by example.
Yahoo! News - Blog-Tracking May Gain Ground Among U.S. Intelligence Officials
Tue Apr 27, 8:53 AM ET
By Doug Tsuruoka
People in black trench coats might soon be chasing blogs.
Blogs, short for Web logs, are personal online journals. Individuals post them on Web sites to report or comment on news especially, but also on their personal lives or most any subject.
Some blogs are whimsical and deal with "soft" subjects. Others, though, are cutting edge in delivering information and opinion.
As a result, some analysts say U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials might be starting to track blogs for important bits of information. This interest is a sign of how far Web media such as blogs have come in reshaping the data-collection habits of intelligence professionals and others, even with the knowledge that the accuracy of what's reported in some blogs is questionable.
Still, a panel of folks who work in the U.S. intelligence field - some of them spies or former spies - discussed this month at a conference in Washington the idea of tracking blogs.
"News and intelligence is about listening with a critical ear, and blogs are just another conversation to listen to and evaluate. They also are closer to (some situations) and may serve as early alerts," said Jock Gill, a former adviser on Internet media to President Clinton (news - web sites), in a later phone interview, after he spoke on the panel.
Tue Apr 27, 8:53 AM ET
By Doug Tsuruoka
People in black trench coats might soon be chasing blogs.
Blogs, short for Web logs, are personal online journals. Individuals post them on Web sites to report or comment on news especially, but also on their personal lives or most any subject.
Some blogs are whimsical and deal with "soft" subjects. Others, though, are cutting edge in delivering information and opinion.
As a result, some analysts say U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials might be starting to track blogs for important bits of information. This interest is a sign of how far Web media such as blogs have come in reshaping the data-collection habits of intelligence professionals and others, even with the knowledge that the accuracy of what's reported in some blogs is questionable.
Still, a panel of folks who work in the U.S. intelligence field - some of them spies or former spies - discussed this month at a conference in Washington the idea of tracking blogs.
"News and intelligence is about listening with a critical ear, and blogs are just another conversation to listen to and evaluate. They also are closer to (some situations) and may serve as early alerts," said Jock Gill, a former adviser on Internet media to President Clinton (news - web sites), in a later phone interview, after he spoke on the panel.
Small Craft Intrusion Barrier Has Applications in Homeland Security To Protect Against Potential Maritime Attacks
Summit, New Jersey - April 27, 2004 - Wave Dispersion Technologies (WDT) reported today that the company's Small Craft Intrusion Barrier (SCIB), patented floating breakwater technology, has applications for maritime security to protect ports and potentially prevent attacks utilizing small boats, as recent maritime attack in Iraq kills three U.S. Navy sailors. The SCIB barrier is designed to demarcate the marine port security zone and significantly impede hostile small crafts from penetrating it.
Vulnerabilities in port security were evident this weekend, as suicide attackers detonated explosive-laden boats near oil facilities in Iraq. Three small boats approached two major oil terminals in Gulf waters, 100 miles from Iraq's main port, Umm Qasr, and exploded when coalition craft tried to intercept them. During the explosion, a U.S. Navy craft was flipped over, killing three American sailors and injuring another five.
"Our Small Craft Intrusion Barriers were specifically designed to prevent hostile small boats from entering ports. We have had significant ongoing interest and requests for deploying our barriers. The United States Department for the Interior (DOI), Bureau of Reclamation South Central California Area, recently purchased our Small Craft Intrusion Barrier for the Friant Dam in Fresno, California" stated C.E.O. Dennis Smith.
WhisprWave� breakwater technology has wide ranging maritime applications from erosion control to homeland security. The Company has been developing the technology for several years and holds 7 Domestic and International Patents for the WhisprWave�'s unique design and utility, with an additional 20 patents pending.
The WhisprWave� is specifically designed in a modular format to increase the product's flexibility and strength for maritime applications. WhisprWave�'s distinct design and application allow it to withstand adverse marine conditions such as large storm waves and sustained winds of more than 100 MPH.
Maritime Port Security Buoys and Barriers:
To facilitate the security needs of the US Navy, US Coast Guard, US Army, other government agencies and commercial interests, the company has developed the WhisprWave� Technology line of Maritime Intrusion and Exclusion Barriers and Warning Buoys for Homeland Security and Force Protection. The unique characteristics of the WhisprWave� Homeland Defense Products include mobility, marine grade design and off-the-shelf availability for Homeland Security maritime zone demarcation applications, (a requirement recently mandated by the USCG for all nuclear power plants post 9/11).
About WDT: http://www.whisprwave.com
The Global Leader in Maritime Homeland Port Security Barrier & Buoy Protection Systems
Wave Dispersion Technologies, Inc. (WDT) has developed the patented WhisprWave� floating articulated breakwater technology to afford erosion control protection to shoreline beaches, coastal marinas, anchorages, and other areas subject to destructive erosion wave / wake forces. The WhisprWave� is currently installed, being demonstrated or being reviewed by several agencies (US Army Corp of Engineers "USACE", US Navy "USN", US Coast Guard "USCG") for applications that range from Homeland Security / Force Protection to Beach Erosion Protection to Marina Wave & Wake Protection.
WDT is a Featured Private Company on http://www.HomelandDefenseStocks.com
Contact:
Dennis G. Smith, CEO - Summit, NJ (908) 273-3358
info@whisprwave.com
Media /Investors:
Dawn Van Zant, ECON Investor Relations, Inc.,
1-866-730-1151 dvanzant@investorideas.com
SUBSCRIBE/UNSUBSCRIBE
To subscribe or unsubscribe to this newsletter send an email to: mailto:news@investorideas.com and type in: (WDT) SUBSCRIBE or (WDT) REMOVE in the subject line.
Summit, New Jersey - April 27, 2004 - Wave Dispersion Technologies (WDT) reported today that the company's Small Craft Intrusion Barrier (SCIB), patented floating breakwater technology, has applications for maritime security to protect ports and potentially prevent attacks utilizing small boats, as recent maritime attack in Iraq kills three U.S. Navy sailors. The SCIB barrier is designed to demarcate the marine port security zone and significantly impede hostile small crafts from penetrating it.
Vulnerabilities in port security were evident this weekend, as suicide attackers detonated explosive-laden boats near oil facilities in Iraq. Three small boats approached two major oil terminals in Gulf waters, 100 miles from Iraq's main port, Umm Qasr, and exploded when coalition craft tried to intercept them. During the explosion, a U.S. Navy craft was flipped over, killing three American sailors and injuring another five.
"Our Small Craft Intrusion Barriers were specifically designed to prevent hostile small boats from entering ports. We have had significant ongoing interest and requests for deploying our barriers. The United States Department for the Interior (DOI), Bureau of Reclamation South Central California Area, recently purchased our Small Craft Intrusion Barrier for the Friant Dam in Fresno, California" stated C.E.O. Dennis Smith.
WhisprWave� breakwater technology has wide ranging maritime applications from erosion control to homeland security. The Company has been developing the technology for several years and holds 7 Domestic and International Patents for the WhisprWave�'s unique design and utility, with an additional 20 patents pending.
The WhisprWave� is specifically designed in a modular format to increase the product's flexibility and strength for maritime applications. WhisprWave�'s distinct design and application allow it to withstand adverse marine conditions such as large storm waves and sustained winds of more than 100 MPH.
Maritime Port Security Buoys and Barriers:
To facilitate the security needs of the US Navy, US Coast Guard, US Army, other government agencies and commercial interests, the company has developed the WhisprWave� Technology line of Maritime Intrusion and Exclusion Barriers and Warning Buoys for Homeland Security and Force Protection. The unique characteristics of the WhisprWave� Homeland Defense Products include mobility, marine grade design and off-the-shelf availability for Homeland Security maritime zone demarcation applications, (a requirement recently mandated by the USCG for all nuclear power plants post 9/11).
About WDT: http://www.whisprwave.com
The Global Leader in Maritime Homeland Port Security Barrier & Buoy Protection Systems
Wave Dispersion Technologies, Inc. (WDT) has developed the patented WhisprWave� floating articulated breakwater technology to afford erosion control protection to shoreline beaches, coastal marinas, anchorages, and other areas subject to destructive erosion wave / wake forces. The WhisprWave� is currently installed, being demonstrated or being reviewed by several agencies (US Army Corp of Engineers "USACE", US Navy "USN", US Coast Guard "USCG") for applications that range from Homeland Security / Force Protection to Beach Erosion Protection to Marina Wave & Wake Protection.
WDT is a Featured Private Company on http://www.HomelandDefenseStocks.com
Contact:
Dennis G. Smith, CEO - Summit, NJ (908) 273-3358
info@whisprwave.com
Media /Investors:
Dawn Van Zant, ECON Investor Relations, Inc.,
1-866-730-1151 dvanzant@investorideas.com
SUBSCRIBE/UNSUBSCRIBE
To subscribe or unsubscribe to this newsletter send an email to: mailto:news@investorideas.com and type in: (WDT) SUBSCRIBE or (WDT) REMOVE in the subject line.
Saturday, April 24, 2004
Boston.com / News / World / Suicide boat bombers attack Iraqi oil facilities in Persian Gulf, killing two sailors
By Bassem Mroue, Associated Press, 4/24/2004 17:57
BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) Suicide attackers detonated explosive-laden boats near oil facilities in the Persian Gulf on Saturday, killing two U.S. Navy sailors in a new tactic against Iraq's vital oil industry. Elsewhere, violence across Iraq killed at least 33 Iraqis and four American soldiers.
It was the first such maritime attack against oil facilities since U.S. troops invaded Iraqi more than a year ago. The blasts resembled attacks in 2000 and 2002 blamed on al-Qaida against the USS Cole and a French oil tanker off the coast of Yemen that killed 17 American sailors and a tanker crewman.
In the attack, three dhows, or small boats, drew close to two major oil terminals in Gulf waters about 100 miles from Iraq's main port, Umm Qasr, and exploded when coalition craft tried to intercept them. A U.S. Navy craft was flipped by the blast, killing the American sailors and injuring five others, the U.S. military said.
By Bassem Mroue, Associated Press, 4/24/2004 17:57
BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) Suicide attackers detonated explosive-laden boats near oil facilities in the Persian Gulf on Saturday, killing two U.S. Navy sailors in a new tactic against Iraq's vital oil industry. Elsewhere, violence across Iraq killed at least 33 Iraqis and four American soldiers.
It was the first such maritime attack against oil facilities since U.S. troops invaded Iraqi more than a year ago. The blasts resembled attacks in 2000 and 2002 blamed on al-Qaida against the USS Cole and a French oil tanker off the coast of Yemen that killed 17 American sailors and a tanker crewman.
In the attack, three dhows, or small boats, drew close to two major oil terminals in Gulf waters about 100 miles from Iraq's main port, Umm Qasr, and exploded when coalition craft tried to intercept them. A U.S. Navy craft was flipped by the blast, killing the American sailors and injuring five others, the U.S. military said.
CAPEX Camp Lejeune April 2004
Members of the WhisprWave� management team just got back from Camp Lejeune and the II Marine Expeditionary Force ("II MEF") CAPEX exercise. We were hosted by LtGen Osman (Commanding General, II MEF) and MajGen Johnson (Commanding General, 2d Marine Division) and their troops for a day of impressive capabilities demonstrations. More about II MEF
Members of the WhisprWave� management team just got back from Camp Lejeune and the II Marine Expeditionary Force ("II MEF") CAPEX exercise. We were hosted by LtGen Osman (Commanding General, II MEF) and MajGen Johnson (Commanding General, 2d Marine Division) and their troops for a day of impressive capabilities demonstrations. More about II MEF
What is CAPEX?
Marines and Sailors show off their skills to the public during Capabilities Exercise (CAPEX). These CAPEX demonstrations are held biannually (April and October). The CAPEX is variously known as a Capabilities Exercise, Capability Exercise or a Capstone Exercise. The purpose of the CAPEX is to showcase Marine Corps capabilities in a variety of different tactical exercises for the Capstone Officers, a group made up of brigadier generals and general selects from a variety of different services. Also in attendance are congressional representatives and civilian agency representatives who had an interest in the abilities of the Marine Corps. The spectators have ringside seats to demonstrations by jets, helicopters, the recovery of downed pilots, water and beach landings, as well as hostage removal and urban assault demonstrations. Overall, the event is designed to allow personnel of different backgrounds and military occupational specialties to gain a better understanding of the capabilities of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force.
More about CAPEX
LtGen Osman and MajGen Johnson and their troops from II MEF and the 2d Marine Division put on quite a show. THEY MADE US PROUD TO SAY THAT WE ARE AMERICANS.
We greatly appreciated the opportunity and II MEF's hospitality.
Many thanks to the Marines of II MEF! Semper Fidelis!
Sunday, April 18, 2004
U.S. Law Enforcement Starting to Focus on Maritime/Seaborne Terror
Renewing concerns over the safety of the maritime sector in the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and the FBI have identified eleven individuals working within the U.S. merchant marine community with suspected links to terrorist organizations, according to FBI Counter Terrorism Chief Gary Bald. All eleven have been placed on the 'No-Fly' and 'Watchlist' maintained at the Terrorist Screening Center (TSC). The TSC is administered by the FBI and was created to consolidate terrorist watchlists and provide 24/7 operational support for thousands of Federal screeners across the country and around the world.
Testifying before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Terrorism, Technology, and Homeland Security, January 27, 2004, Bald revealed that a 14-month joint investigation, designated 'Operation Drydock', included an extensive review and background check of the more than 200,000 merchant marine licenses issued by the USCG to identify possible terrorist links and counterfeit licenses. In addition to certifying an individual's ability to operate a vessel, merchant marine licenses are often used by persons to board and depart ships in foreign ports. "
Renewing concerns over the safety of the maritime sector in the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and the FBI have identified eleven individuals working within the U.S. merchant marine community with suspected links to terrorist organizations, according to FBI Counter Terrorism Chief Gary Bald. All eleven have been placed on the 'No-Fly' and 'Watchlist' maintained at the Terrorist Screening Center (TSC). The TSC is administered by the FBI and was created to consolidate terrorist watchlists and provide 24/7 operational support for thousands of Federal screeners across the country and around the world.
Testifying before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Terrorism, Technology, and Homeland Security, January 27, 2004, Bald revealed that a 14-month joint investigation, designated 'Operation Drydock', included an extensive review and background check of the more than 200,000 merchant marine licenses issued by the USCG to identify possible terrorist links and counterfeit licenses. In addition to certifying an individual's ability to operate a vessel, merchant marine licenses are often used by persons to board and depart ships in foreign ports. "
Saturday, April 17, 2004
Divers train to find mines
By ROBIN FITZGERALD
THE SUN HERALD
GULFPORT - Divers lowered themselves into pitch-black water Friday at the state Port of Gulfport, searching for explosive devices beneath a 650-foot Greek flagship.
The devices were dummies, part of an anti-terrorist training program sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security. The class had three divers from the Gulfport Fire Department and divers from the New Orleans Police Department and the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Department.
A-T Solutions, an anti-terrorist training company, is teaching the course at 20 major ports around the nation, said Bill Kirk, the company's West Coast director. The course teaches public safety divers to search for explosive devices under vessels, piers and other maritime structures, to identify them and mark them until a Navy specialist can arrive to defuse them.
"It was an overwhelmingly huge vessel, its propeller as big as a truck, and like a blackout condition, not being able to see your hands in front of your face," said Gulfport firefighter Brian Sullivan. "We had to do everything by touch in two-man teams tied to the boat."
The divers trained for three days in New Orleans, and spent Thursday and Friday participating in mock exercises prepared for with help from U.S. Customs, port employees and the Gulfport Fire Department.
As divers went underneath the ore-loading vessel, they worked in darkness and communicated by touch with a squeeze on the leg or arm, Sullivan said.
"One squeeze, stop; two, go. Three squeezes, go to the top. Four, I've found a device, and five, let's get out of here fast."
His father, Gulfport Fire Chief Pat Sullivan, said the training prepares divers to protect the port and the community.
"When cruise ships were coming in and the national security level was raised from yellow to orange, the Coast Guard asked us to have divers check the piers and the ships," he said. "We had to call in divers from other areas because we didn't have the specialized training. We do now."
By ROBIN FITZGERALD
THE SUN HERALD
GULFPORT - Divers lowered themselves into pitch-black water Friday at the state Port of Gulfport, searching for explosive devices beneath a 650-foot Greek flagship.
The devices were dummies, part of an anti-terrorist training program sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security. The class had three divers from the Gulfport Fire Department and divers from the New Orleans Police Department and the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Department.
A-T Solutions, an anti-terrorist training company, is teaching the course at 20 major ports around the nation, said Bill Kirk, the company's West Coast director. The course teaches public safety divers to search for explosive devices under vessels, piers and other maritime structures, to identify them and mark them until a Navy specialist can arrive to defuse them.
"It was an overwhelmingly huge vessel, its propeller as big as a truck, and like a blackout condition, not being able to see your hands in front of your face," said Gulfport firefighter Brian Sullivan. "We had to do everything by touch in two-man teams tied to the boat."
The divers trained for three days in New Orleans, and spent Thursday and Friday participating in mock exercises prepared for with help from U.S. Customs, port employees and the Gulfport Fire Department.
As divers went underneath the ore-loading vessel, they worked in darkness and communicated by touch with a squeeze on the leg or arm, Sullivan said.
"One squeeze, stop; two, go. Three squeezes, go to the top. Four, I've found a device, and five, let's get out of here fast."
His father, Gulfport Fire Chief Pat Sullivan, said the training prepares divers to protect the port and the community.
"When cruise ships were coming in and the national security level was raised from yellow to orange, the Coast Guard asked us to have divers check the piers and the ships," he said. "We had to call in divers from other areas because we didn't have the specialized training. We do now."
Hazardous Seas
Maritime Sector Vulnerable to Devastating Terrorist Attacks
The recent attacks on the USS Cole (DDG-67) and the French supertanker MVLimburg offer a stark illustration of terrorist interest in maritime targets. U.S. intelligence officials have identified between 12 and 300 ships possibly owned and/or operated by al Qaeda. Upon his capture, the alleged al Qaeda mastermind behind the USS Cole attack, Abdul Rahim Mohammed Hussein Abda Al-Nasheri, reportedly confessed to planning future attacks against U.S. and British warships in the Straits of Gibraltar. Meanwhile, U.S. intelligence agencies have described an increase in terrorist �chatter� regarding ships, port facilities, bridges, and SCUBA diving, reported Globalsecurity.org.
In its October 2003 terrorism report, London-based security consultants Aegis Defence Service (ADS) warned of the growing threat posed by the partnership between maritime piracy and marine terrorism.
If an explicit alliance between piracy and terrorism exists, as ADS and other intelligence officials believe, then the hijacking of merchant vessels at sea suddenly presents a daunting and multi-layered threat to global security and trade well beyond the �simple� threat of merchant piracy.
The nexus between piracy and terrorism affords terrorist groups a lucrative cash flow, access to deadly cargoes, and a means to launch spectacular attacks with the potential to wreak havoc on the global economy.
Rampant Piracy in Modern Times
The double-hulled French supertanker MVLimburg burns after being rammed by an explosives-filled speed boat off the coast of Yemen.
In 2000, the Annual Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) cited more than 460 reported acts of maritime piracy - a 56 percent increase from the previous year. The majority of these attacks occurred in areas known to host terrorist groups including Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Bab al Mandab straits located at the mouth of the Red Sea. The Bab al Mandab region, along the coasts of Yemen, Somalia, and Djibouti, has experienced a 155 percent increase in maritime piracy incidents since 1998, according to a RAND Corporation study by Peter Chalk. Little government regulation, the near absence of effective naval policing capabilities, and the necessary adherence of merchant vessels to established international sea-lanes, provide a favorable environment for terrorists and pirates to operate in.
The IMB report warned that merchant vessels are most vulnerable in coastal areas while anchored outside port facilities or traversing navigation channels and coastal waterways at slow speeds. Ironically, these littoral areas are the easiest to protect since many countries ravaged by pirates primarily maintain shallow water navies. Still, many foreign governments are unable to compete with the well-equipped pirates, who typically make use of state-of-the-art speedboats, automatic weapons, and sophisticated communication gear.
Piracy is a Lucrative Sideline for Terror Groups
Maritime piracy is attractive to terrorist groups because merchant vessels and their cargos afford an easy and highly profitable source of funding, one that skirts existing international efforts to freeze terrorist finances. Consider the hijacking of the merchant ship Juliana off the coast of Indonesia in August 2000 with a cargo of 1,993 tons of steel sheets, worth approximately $50 million. The Juliana eluded authorities for months with false names, forged registrations, and new paintjobs. The ship was recovered only when the pirate crew dramatically undervalued the cargo while passing through customs off Thailand�s Ko Si Chang Island to unload the freight to a buyer. Some experts, including Sam Vaknin - author of Treasure Island Revisited - On Maritime Piracy, (United Press International, 2002) estimate the total dollar value of cargo lost per hijacked ship is between $8 million and $200 million.
Crewmembers and the merchant vessels themselves are another source of profit. Ransom money, paid for the release of merchant crews, averages $350,000-$500,000 while hijacked ships, which are usually repainted, renamed and re-flagged, become �ghost ships.�
�Ghost ships� have become pandemic. In some countries, up to 80 percent of maritime certificates were found to be fraudulent or questionable, according to a November 17, 2003 report by The Straits Times. Poor government intervention, corrupt customs officials, and weak shore-side surveillance and intelligence capabilities contribute to the anarchy of the maritime environment.
Maritime Sector Vulnerable to Devastating Terrorist Attacks
The recent attacks on the USS Cole (DDG-67) and the French supertanker MVLimburg offer a stark illustration of terrorist interest in maritime targets. U.S. intelligence officials have identified between 12 and 300 ships possibly owned and/or operated by al Qaeda. Upon his capture, the alleged al Qaeda mastermind behind the USS Cole attack, Abdul Rahim Mohammed Hussein Abda Al-Nasheri, reportedly confessed to planning future attacks against U.S. and British warships in the Straits of Gibraltar. Meanwhile, U.S. intelligence agencies have described an increase in terrorist �chatter� regarding ships, port facilities, bridges, and SCUBA diving, reported Globalsecurity.org.
In its October 2003 terrorism report, London-based security consultants Aegis Defence Service (ADS) warned of the growing threat posed by the partnership between maritime piracy and marine terrorism.
If an explicit alliance between piracy and terrorism exists, as ADS and other intelligence officials believe, then the hijacking of merchant vessels at sea suddenly presents a daunting and multi-layered threat to global security and trade well beyond the �simple� threat of merchant piracy.
The nexus between piracy and terrorism affords terrorist groups a lucrative cash flow, access to deadly cargoes, and a means to launch spectacular attacks with the potential to wreak havoc on the global economy.
Rampant Piracy in Modern Times
The double-hulled French supertanker MVLimburg burns after being rammed by an explosives-filled speed boat off the coast of Yemen.
In 2000, the Annual Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) cited more than 460 reported acts of maritime piracy - a 56 percent increase from the previous year. The majority of these attacks occurred in areas known to host terrorist groups including Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Bab al Mandab straits located at the mouth of the Red Sea. The Bab al Mandab region, along the coasts of Yemen, Somalia, and Djibouti, has experienced a 155 percent increase in maritime piracy incidents since 1998, according to a RAND Corporation study by Peter Chalk. Little government regulation, the near absence of effective naval policing capabilities, and the necessary adherence of merchant vessels to established international sea-lanes, provide a favorable environment for terrorists and pirates to operate in.
The IMB report warned that merchant vessels are most vulnerable in coastal areas while anchored outside port facilities or traversing navigation channels and coastal waterways at slow speeds. Ironically, these littoral areas are the easiest to protect since many countries ravaged by pirates primarily maintain shallow water navies. Still, many foreign governments are unable to compete with the well-equipped pirates, who typically make use of state-of-the-art speedboats, automatic weapons, and sophisticated communication gear.
Piracy is a Lucrative Sideline for Terror Groups
Maritime piracy is attractive to terrorist groups because merchant vessels and their cargos afford an easy and highly profitable source of funding, one that skirts existing international efforts to freeze terrorist finances. Consider the hijacking of the merchant ship Juliana off the coast of Indonesia in August 2000 with a cargo of 1,993 tons of steel sheets, worth approximately $50 million. The Juliana eluded authorities for months with false names, forged registrations, and new paintjobs. The ship was recovered only when the pirate crew dramatically undervalued the cargo while passing through customs off Thailand�s Ko Si Chang Island to unload the freight to a buyer. Some experts, including Sam Vaknin - author of Treasure Island Revisited - On Maritime Piracy, (United Press International, 2002) estimate the total dollar value of cargo lost per hijacked ship is between $8 million and $200 million.
Crewmembers and the merchant vessels themselves are another source of profit. Ransom money, paid for the release of merchant crews, averages $350,000-$500,000 while hijacked ships, which are usually repainted, renamed and re-flagged, become �ghost ships.�
�Ghost ships� have become pandemic. In some countries, up to 80 percent of maritime certificates were found to be fraudulent or questionable, according to a November 17, 2003 report by The Straits Times. Poor government intervention, corrupt customs officials, and weak shore-side surveillance and intelligence capabilities contribute to the anarchy of the maritime environment.
U.S. Starting to Focus on Maritime/Seaborne Terror
Assault on Israeli Ashdod Port Kills 10, Mega Attack Narrowly Avoided
Renewing concerns over the safety of the maritime sector in the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and the FBI have identified eleven individuals working within the U.S. merchant marine community with suspected links to terrorist organizations, according to FBI Counter Terrorism Chief Gary Bald. All eleven have been placed on the "No-Fly" and "Watchlist" maintained at the Terrorist Screening Center (TSC). The TSC is administered by the FBI and was created to consolidate terrorist watchlists and provide 24/7 operational support for thousands of Federal screeners across the country and around the world.
Testifying before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Terrorism, Technology, and Homeland Security, January 27, 2004, Bald revealed that a 14-month joint investigation, designated "Operation Drydock", included an extensive review and background check of the more than 200,000 merchant marine licenses issued by the USCG to identify possible terrorist links and counterfeit licenses. In addition to certifying an individual's ability to operate a vessel, merchant marine licenses are often used by persons to board and depart ships in foreign ports.
The joint investigation uncovered nine individuals with suspected links to terrorism and exposed, "thousands of cases of possible fraud or other problems, including mariners with active arrest warrants," according to U.S. Coast Guard spokeswoman Jolie Shifflet. In addition, the USCG and the FBI teamed up with U.S. Navy officials to remove more than a dozen individuals scheduled to serve on U.S. Navy sealift command ships supporting the military buildup in the Middle East prior to Operation Iraqi Freedom. Civilian merchant mariners support the Navy's sealift capabilities heavily.
Assault on Israeli Ashdod Port Kills 10, Mega Attack Narrowly Avoided
Renewing concerns over the safety of the maritime sector in the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and the FBI have identified eleven individuals working within the U.S. merchant marine community with suspected links to terrorist organizations, according to FBI Counter Terrorism Chief Gary Bald. All eleven have been placed on the "No-Fly" and "Watchlist" maintained at the Terrorist Screening Center (TSC). The TSC is administered by the FBI and was created to consolidate terrorist watchlists and provide 24/7 operational support for thousands of Federal screeners across the country and around the world.
Testifying before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Terrorism, Technology, and Homeland Security, January 27, 2004, Bald revealed that a 14-month joint investigation, designated "Operation Drydock", included an extensive review and background check of the more than 200,000 merchant marine licenses issued by the USCG to identify possible terrorist links and counterfeit licenses. In addition to certifying an individual's ability to operate a vessel, merchant marine licenses are often used by persons to board and depart ships in foreign ports.
The joint investigation uncovered nine individuals with suspected links to terrorism and exposed, "thousands of cases of possible fraud or other problems, including mariners with active arrest warrants," according to U.S. Coast Guard spokeswoman Jolie Shifflet. In addition, the USCG and the FBI teamed up with U.S. Navy officials to remove more than a dozen individuals scheduled to serve on U.S. Navy sealift command ships supporting the military buildup in the Middle East prior to Operation Iraqi Freedom. Civilian merchant mariners support the Navy's sealift capabilities heavily.
Sunday, April 11, 2004
Homeland Security on NBC
Sunday, April 11 9/8pm
Homeland Security
This NBC Original Movie takes you inside the war on terror, to meet the American warriors on the front lines. They wage a war with no rules. They pursue an enemy hiding throughout the world. They know that some of their greatest victories will never be made public. But together, their mission is a singular one: to protect the American homeland.
Sunday, April 11 9/8pm
Homeland Security
This NBC Original Movie takes you inside the war on terror, to meet the American warriors on the front lines. They wage a war with no rules. They pursue an enemy hiding throughout the world. They know that some of their greatest victories will never be made public. But together, their mission is a singular one: to protect the American homeland.
Greece Behind In Race For Olympics
60 Minutes
April 11, 2004
Lesley Stahl reports on Athens and its efforts to complete facilities in time to host the summer Olympic games.
Making the games secure from terrorists is also an important issue. Greece will be spending a record $1 billion dollars on security
But success won't depend just on finishing the construction. Even more important, and far more serious, is the issue of security -- making the games safe.
�When we took on the Olympics, 9/11 hadn't occurred,� says Rondos. �Since 9/11, we have all collectively, internationally, discovered the nature of a new threat.�
That threat is al Qaeda, and its network of offshoots around the world � things that Bruce Hoffman studies at the Rand Corporation.
�Al Qaeda, especially in the post-9/11 world, is intent, I think, in rejuvenating or regenerating itself,� says Hoffman. �And it has, I think, this abiding faith in the power of the spectacular that would be their attention on the Olympics.�
�Also, isn't it true that the Olympics really is kind of 'the Western world,' 'the civilized world,' everything they hate?� asks Stahl.
�Oh, absolutely. Especially the Olympics being in Athens. Being in Greece. The cradle of Western civilization. The embodiment of Western values,� says Hoffman. �That makes it an enormously attractive symbolic target. More so, perhaps, than ever.�
No one can accuse the Greeks of taking security lightly. They'll be spending a record $1 billion dollars on the effort -- three times what the Australians spent at the last summer games. 50,000 security officers and military personnel will be on guard.
And they may need every one of them. Greece literally sits in the middle of much of the world's trouble: the Balkans on one side, Turkey and the Middle East on another, and hundreds of miles of porous land and sea borders.
�When you have that length of border, and especially that much of sea coast, it presents special security problems, of terrorists, as it were, coming in beneath the radar,� says Hoffman. �There has been a number of incidents over the past three decades that have involved Middle Eastern terrorists that have seen Greece as a crossroads to carry out terrorist attacks.�
60 Minutes
April 11, 2004
Lesley Stahl reports on Athens and its efforts to complete facilities in time to host the summer Olympic games.
Making the games secure from terrorists is also an important issue. Greece will be spending a record $1 billion dollars on security
But success won't depend just on finishing the construction. Even more important, and far more serious, is the issue of security -- making the games safe.
�When we took on the Olympics, 9/11 hadn't occurred,� says Rondos. �Since 9/11, we have all collectively, internationally, discovered the nature of a new threat.�
That threat is al Qaeda, and its network of offshoots around the world � things that Bruce Hoffman studies at the Rand Corporation.
�Al Qaeda, especially in the post-9/11 world, is intent, I think, in rejuvenating or regenerating itself,� says Hoffman. �And it has, I think, this abiding faith in the power of the spectacular that would be their attention on the Olympics.�
�Also, isn't it true that the Olympics really is kind of 'the Western world,' 'the civilized world,' everything they hate?� asks Stahl.
�Oh, absolutely. Especially the Olympics being in Athens. Being in Greece. The cradle of Western civilization. The embodiment of Western values,� says Hoffman. �That makes it an enormously attractive symbolic target. More so, perhaps, than ever.�
No one can accuse the Greeks of taking security lightly. They'll be spending a record $1 billion dollars on the effort -- three times what the Australians spent at the last summer games. 50,000 security officers and military personnel will be on guard.
And they may need every one of them. Greece literally sits in the middle of much of the world's trouble: the Balkans on one side, Turkey and the Middle East on another, and hundreds of miles of porous land and sea borders.
�When you have that length of border, and especially that much of sea coast, it presents special security problems, of terrorists, as it were, coming in beneath the radar,� says Hoffman. �There has been a number of incidents over the past three decades that have involved Middle Eastern terrorists that have seen Greece as a crossroads to carry out terrorist attacks.�
Senate Committee Approves Rail, Port Security Bills
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A Senate committee approved legislation on Thursday to beef up U.S. rail security but gutted a proposed fee on shippers that would have raised $400 million a year to pay for port security improvements.
'Rail security is a matter of national security,' said Sen. Ernest Hollings, a South Carolina Democrat and the ranking Democrat of the Commerce Committee. 'It's no longer a function we can leave to the private sector.'
The $1.1 billion bipartisan measure requires the Homeland Security Department to assess U.S. railroad security risks nationwide.
Just a week ago, the FBI and Homeland Security warned U.S. law enforcement agencies that al Qaeda and other groups could target U.S. trains and buses with bombs hidden in luggage. That warning followed the March 11 Madrid train bombings that killed 191 people and injured some 1,500.
The package approved Thursday includes grants for states to hire more rail police and bomb-sniffing dogs, funding for tunnel improvements in New York and Washington, and technology to more safely haul hazardous materials on freight trains.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A Senate committee approved legislation on Thursday to beef up U.S. rail security but gutted a proposed fee on shippers that would have raised $400 million a year to pay for port security improvements.
'Rail security is a matter of national security,' said Sen. Ernest Hollings, a South Carolina Democrat and the ranking Democrat of the Commerce Committee. 'It's no longer a function we can leave to the private sector.'
The $1.1 billion bipartisan measure requires the Homeland Security Department to assess U.S. railroad security risks nationwide.
Just a week ago, the FBI and Homeland Security warned U.S. law enforcement agencies that al Qaeda and other groups could target U.S. trains and buses with bombs hidden in luggage. That warning followed the March 11 Madrid train bombings that killed 191 people and injured some 1,500.
The package approved Thursday includes grants for states to hire more rail police and bomb-sniffing dogs, funding for tunnel improvements in New York and Washington, and technology to more safely haul hazardous materials on freight trains.
Friday, April 09, 2004
'Homeland Security' a disaster in itself
'In September 1999 � two years prior to the tragedies of 9-11 � the U.S. Commission on National Security reported that direct and catastrophic terrorist attacks would be launched against the American homeland in the near future.'
Words to chill the electronic hearth. But who said them?
It wasn't national security adviser Condoleezza Rice, testifying yesterday before a national television audience. Nor was it former NSA counterterrorism chief Richard Clarke, on yet another talk show defending his book about why America slept.
In fact, the statement is from NBC's 'Homeland Security,' which airs at 9 p.m. Sunday (KING-TV).
'Homeland Security' is not a good movie. The plotting is fragmented, the actors mostly unmemorable and the second half all too clearly in thrall to establishing a future television series.
But overshadowing the aura of failed pilot is a reptilian opportunism that fascinates. Just how does a network methodically exploit tragedy and curry White House favor?
These tasks are not easy to juggle. Keeping a finger on the audience pulse and simultaneously brown-nosing the government is, if you think about it, an awkward position.
Furthermore, foresight is difficult while kissing hind-end. Although 'Homeland Security' plainly is scheduled to capitalize on the current investigation into 9-11, this 2003 production fails to anticipate today's souring public mood.
The result is a peculiar time capsule that may someday take its place alongside 1950s Red-baiting propaganda intended to freak out audiences before reassuring them that the United States will triumph.
Sunday's story begins with the foreboding introduction quoted above and a roughly hourlong accounting of our failure to heed various warnings about a terrorist threat.
These missteps are sifted through made-up characters such as CIA operative Bradley Brand (Grant Show), CIA veteran Joe Johnson (Scott Glenn) and Adm. Theodore McKee (Tom Skerritt). They are attached, in ways personal and professional, to events.
The dialogue and action are standard-issue, and any thrills strictly derivative. "Homeland Security" is ripped from the headlines, lifted from the blotter, snatched from cable news � everything except dug from the files, which is what most interests us now.
After tastefully reaching the tragic climax of 9-11, the rest of the movie is devoted to square-jawed optimism. "C'mon son, ass-kickin' time," drawls Johnson, as U.S. soldiers mount their horses and ride into the mountains of Afghanistan.
We also see Tom Ridge being sworn in as head of Homeland Security and Adm. McKee going to work for him. Apparently, his job is getting all the formerly combative agencies to work together.
Some concern is expressed about the new entity's role. "We don't want a national Gestapo," says Skerritt's adviser, Sol Binder (Leland Orser). Another person frets that the United States is creating a paramilitary operation and a dangerous precedent. Never fear; this is lip service. General Electric-owned NBC and Viacom-owned Paramount Television Productions are not seriously dwelling on the possibility of a government agency running roughshod over rights, unless it's their right to get bigger.
The two-hour ordeal ends on an upbeat note, with apparent victory in Afghanistan and the gradual fade-in of a speech from President Bush that is memorable, though likely not for the reasons it was selected.
"Homeland Security will make America not only stronger, but in many ways better," the president notes, before issuing his famous directorial pronouncement. "Now America's embracing a new ethic and a new creed: Let's roll."
At least NBC had sense not to follow suit with "Homeland Security," the TV series. Some signs of disaster are heeded.
'In September 1999 � two years prior to the tragedies of 9-11 � the U.S. Commission on National Security reported that direct and catastrophic terrorist attacks would be launched against the American homeland in the near future.'
Words to chill the electronic hearth. But who said them?
It wasn't national security adviser Condoleezza Rice, testifying yesterday before a national television audience. Nor was it former NSA counterterrorism chief Richard Clarke, on yet another talk show defending his book about why America slept.
In fact, the statement is from NBC's 'Homeland Security,' which airs at 9 p.m. Sunday (KING-TV).
'Homeland Security' is not a good movie. The plotting is fragmented, the actors mostly unmemorable and the second half all too clearly in thrall to establishing a future television series.
But overshadowing the aura of failed pilot is a reptilian opportunism that fascinates. Just how does a network methodically exploit tragedy and curry White House favor?
These tasks are not easy to juggle. Keeping a finger on the audience pulse and simultaneously brown-nosing the government is, if you think about it, an awkward position.
Furthermore, foresight is difficult while kissing hind-end. Although 'Homeland Security' plainly is scheduled to capitalize on the current investigation into 9-11, this 2003 production fails to anticipate today's souring public mood.
The result is a peculiar time capsule that may someday take its place alongside 1950s Red-baiting propaganda intended to freak out audiences before reassuring them that the United States will triumph.
Sunday's story begins with the foreboding introduction quoted above and a roughly hourlong accounting of our failure to heed various warnings about a terrorist threat.
These missteps are sifted through made-up characters such as CIA operative Bradley Brand (Grant Show), CIA veteran Joe Johnson (Scott Glenn) and Adm. Theodore McKee (Tom Skerritt). They are attached, in ways personal and professional, to events.
The dialogue and action are standard-issue, and any thrills strictly derivative. "Homeland Security" is ripped from the headlines, lifted from the blotter, snatched from cable news � everything except dug from the files, which is what most interests us now.
After tastefully reaching the tragic climax of 9-11, the rest of the movie is devoted to square-jawed optimism. "C'mon son, ass-kickin' time," drawls Johnson, as U.S. soldiers mount their horses and ride into the mountains of Afghanistan.
We also see Tom Ridge being sworn in as head of Homeland Security and Adm. McKee going to work for him. Apparently, his job is getting all the formerly combative agencies to work together.
Some concern is expressed about the new entity's role. "We don't want a national Gestapo," says Skerritt's adviser, Sol Binder (Leland Orser). Another person frets that the United States is creating a paramilitary operation and a dangerous precedent. Never fear; this is lip service. General Electric-owned NBC and Viacom-owned Paramount Television Productions are not seriously dwelling on the possibility of a government agency running roughshod over rights, unless it's their right to get bigger.
The two-hour ordeal ends on an upbeat note, with apparent victory in Afghanistan and the gradual fade-in of a speech from President Bush that is memorable, though likely not for the reasons it was selected.
"Homeland Security will make America not only stronger, but in many ways better," the president notes, before issuing his famous directorial pronouncement. "Now America's embracing a new ethic and a new creed: Let's roll."
At least NBC had sense not to follow suit with "Homeland Security," the TV series. Some signs of disaster are heeded.
Thursday, April 08, 2004
Group enlists seniors for homeland security
by Robert Schroeder
Staff Writer
Apr. 8, 2004
Julie Hile, a 63-year-old retired nurse, remembers taking a course a few years before the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the Pentagon and World Trade Center.
'It was an excellent course,' she recalled. 'And,' she said, 'it scared me.'
The course she's talking about was about terrorism. It was offered at Fort Detrick, where she used to work.
Now, as the third anniversary of the attacks approaches, Hile is one of more than 100 volunteers in the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, run by Volunteer Frederick.
You don't have to be a trained firefighter or EMS technician to help in the homeland security fight. You don't even have to be young and fit; just willing and able. "
by Robert Schroeder
Staff Writer
Apr. 8, 2004
Julie Hile, a 63-year-old retired nurse, remembers taking a course a few years before the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the Pentagon and World Trade Center.
'It was an excellent course,' she recalled. 'And,' she said, 'it scared me.'
The course she's talking about was about terrorism. It was offered at Fort Detrick, where she used to work.
Now, as the third anniversary of the attacks approaches, Hile is one of more than 100 volunteers in the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, run by Volunteer Frederick.
You don't have to be a trained firefighter or EMS technician to help in the homeland security fight. You don't even have to be young and fit; just willing and able. "
Wednesday, April 07, 2004
A prized energy source, or potent terror target? | csmonitor.com
Push to build LNG terminals is under fire
By Mark Clayton | Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor
In the hours after the Sept. 11 attacks, Richard Clarke, then America's top counterterrorism official, rushed to get the US Coast Guard to close Boston Harbor. His main fear: Al Qaeda might attack a huge liquid natural gas tanker as it glided past downtown buildings.
Mr. Clarke professes to know what few did: that Al Qaeda had used LNG tankers to smuggle agents into Boston from Algeria. He also knew that each ship held as much energy as a nuclear weapon. 'Had one of the giant tankers blown up..., it would have wiped out downtown Boston,' Clarke said in his book 'Against All Enemies.'
His assertions add a grave new concern to a push to triple the number of LNG terminals in North America. An explosion of just one bulbous tank on an LNG ship could produce a fire half a mile wide, experts say. Along a densely populated shoreline, they add, such an inferno could be disastrous."
Push to build LNG terminals is under fire
By Mark Clayton | Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor
In the hours after the Sept. 11 attacks, Richard Clarke, then America's top counterterrorism official, rushed to get the US Coast Guard to close Boston Harbor. His main fear: Al Qaeda might attack a huge liquid natural gas tanker as it glided past downtown buildings.
Mr. Clarke professes to know what few did: that Al Qaeda had used LNG tankers to smuggle agents into Boston from Algeria. He also knew that each ship held as much energy as a nuclear weapon. 'Had one of the giant tankers blown up..., it would have wiped out downtown Boston,' Clarke said in his book 'Against All Enemies.'
His assertions add a grave new concern to a push to triple the number of LNG terminals in North America. An explosion of just one bulbous tank on an LNG ship could produce a fire half a mile wide, experts say. Along a densely populated shoreline, they add, such an inferno could be disastrous."
USATODAY.com - Homeland security elusive despite available cash
By Frank Oliveri, Gannett News Service
WASHINGTON
Communities throughout the country remain vulnerable to terrorist attacks, despite $8.3 billion in federal grant money set aside since 2002 for local homeland security needs.
The reason: Bureaucratic red tape has overwhelmed many cities and towns, leaving them unable to qualify for their share of the money.
'There are a lot of requirements that come from the federal government, and at the local level they are overwhelmed already with budget cuts,' said retired Marine Maj. Gen. Jerry Humble, homeland security director for Tennessee.
State and local homeland security officials across the nation say they haven't gotten all the money they need to hire and train rescue and fire officials, law enforcement officers, hazardous materials teams and other first responders.
'We need to remember this is a huge amount of money coming out to the states,' said Suzanne Mencer, director of the Office of Domestic Preparedness. (Related table: Homeland Security funding available to states)"
By Frank Oliveri, Gannett News Service
WASHINGTON
Communities throughout the country remain vulnerable to terrorist attacks, despite $8.3 billion in federal grant money set aside since 2002 for local homeland security needs.
The reason: Bureaucratic red tape has overwhelmed many cities and towns, leaving them unable to qualify for their share of the money.
'There are a lot of requirements that come from the federal government, and at the local level they are overwhelmed already with budget cuts,' said retired Marine Maj. Gen. Jerry Humble, homeland security director for Tennessee.
State and local homeland security officials across the nation say they haven't gotten all the money they need to hire and train rescue and fire officials, law enforcement officers, hazardous materials teams and other first responders.
'We need to remember this is a huge amount of money coming out to the states,' said Suzanne Mencer, director of the Office of Domestic Preparedness. (Related table: Homeland Security funding available to states)"
Tuesday, April 06, 2004
Granholm announces homeland security grants
The Associated Press
4/5/04 6:08 PM
LANSING, Mich. (AP) -- More than 100 local communities will share $73 million in the latest round of homeland security grants announced Monday by Gov. Jennifer Granholm.
Nearly a third of the money -- more than $23 million -- will go to Detroit and Wayne County.
Michigan's portion of homeland security funding was announced late last year but the money just recently has been allocated to the state for distribution.
'These funds are vital to protect Michigan's borders and our citizens and ensure that our state is prepared,' Granholm said in a news release.
'Our first responders will use these funds to ensure a level of preparedness that keeps Michigan safe and secure, and while this funding is a good start, Michigan still has critical needs that I hope (the Department of Homeland Security) will take into future consideration.' "
The Associated Press
4/5/04 6:08 PM
LANSING, Mich. (AP) -- More than 100 local communities will share $73 million in the latest round of homeland security grants announced Monday by Gov. Jennifer Granholm.
Nearly a third of the money -- more than $23 million -- will go to Detroit and Wayne County.
Michigan's portion of homeland security funding was announced late last year but the money just recently has been allocated to the state for distribution.
'These funds are vital to protect Michigan's borders and our citizens and ensure that our state is prepared,' Granholm said in a news release.
'Our first responders will use these funds to ensure a level of preparedness that keeps Michigan safe and secure, and while this funding is a good start, Michigan still has critical needs that I hope (the Department of Homeland Security) will take into future consideration.' "
Airships may play key homeland defense role
by Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
3/8/2004 - WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- The dirigible, or airship, may be used as a tool to detect potential attacks against the United States, Department of Defense officials told House of Representative members March 4.
'We believe the best way to protect Americans is to defeat terrorists as far away from our homeland as we can,' said Air National Guard Maj. Gen. John A. Love in his prepared testimony before the subcommittee on terrorism, unconventional threats and capabilities. General Love is a senior officer with U.S. Northern Command, the unified command charged with defending the United States from land, air and sea attack."
- posted by Ryder Cup @ 5:30 PM
by Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
3/8/2004 - WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- The dirigible, or airship, may be used as a tool to detect potential attacks against the United States, Department of Defense officials told House of Representative members March 4.
'We believe the best way to protect Americans is to defeat terrorists as far away from our homeland as we can,' said Air National Guard Maj. Gen. John A. Love in his prepared testimony before the subcommittee on terrorism, unconventional threats and capabilities. General Love is a senior officer with U.S. Northern Command, the unified command charged with defending the United States from land, air and sea attack."
- posted by Ryder Cup @ 5:30 PM
Oakland bets on high-tech, wins big - 03/28/04
Automation Alley draws thousands of jobs, cash to county
By Amy Lee, Jennifer Brooks and John Wisely / The Detroit News
Tucked away quietly in suburban industrial parks and office buildings, the high-tech business consortium known as Automation Alley is giving local firms a worldwide reputation.
Launched just over four years ago by Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, Automation Alley has grown from 40 member businesses to 500, mostly in Oakland County. In that time, the number of high-tech businesses in Oakland County has grown from 1,800 to more than 3,000, according to the county.
While the definition of high-tech has evolved since then, Automation Alley officials estimate the county's tech work force has grown from 41,000 to more than 150,000.
Automation Alley's annual global export trade missions have landed about $21 million in contracts for small Oakland County businesses from companies in China, Germany and Mexico. And in August, the Alley will unveil its $10 million business center in Troy. "
Automation Alley draws thousands of jobs, cash to county
By Amy Lee, Jennifer Brooks and John Wisely / The Detroit News
Tucked away quietly in suburban industrial parks and office buildings, the high-tech business consortium known as Automation Alley is giving local firms a worldwide reputation.
Launched just over four years ago by Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, Automation Alley has grown from 40 member businesses to 500, mostly in Oakland County. In that time, the number of high-tech businesses in Oakland County has grown from 1,800 to more than 3,000, according to the county.
While the definition of high-tech has evolved since then, Automation Alley officials estimate the county's tech work force has grown from 41,000 to more than 150,000.
Automation Alley's annual global export trade missions have landed about $21 million in contracts for small Oakland County businesses from companies in China, Germany and Mexico. And in August, the Alley will unveil its $10 million business center in Troy. "
Q&A WITH U.S. SEN. JOHN McCAIN: How 9/11, security play out
April 6, 2004
Excerpts of a recent conversation between U.S. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and the Free Press Editorial Board.
Question: As our Iraq commitment continues, do you see, post-election, any possibility of a military draft?
Answer: No, because the type of training that is required now to have a soldier or airman qualify is just very time consuming. The equipment they use, the technological skills are such that it wouldn't work.
And I think overall, with one exception, the all-volunteer force has been very successful. And that one exception is the obvious one, that is all not all classes of Americans serve. The manifestation of that probably is that there are fewer and fewer members of Congress that have had military service.
I'm not saying that everybody should have military service. But I am saying at least a certain proportion should. . . .
You don't have to have had military service to be a great president. I think Abraham Lincoln, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan, they had little or no military experience. But I think there has to be a certain portion of people who are representatives have had those experiences to know what the lifestyle and the difficulties and challenges of military life entail. "
April 6, 2004
Excerpts of a recent conversation between U.S. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and the Free Press Editorial Board.
Question: As our Iraq commitment continues, do you see, post-election, any possibility of a military draft?
Answer: No, because the type of training that is required now to have a soldier or airman qualify is just very time consuming. The equipment they use, the technological skills are such that it wouldn't work.
And I think overall, with one exception, the all-volunteer force has been very successful. And that one exception is the obvious one, that is all not all classes of Americans serve. The manifestation of that probably is that there are fewer and fewer members of Congress that have had military service.
I'm not saying that everybody should have military service. But I am saying at least a certain proportion should. . . .
You don't have to have had military service to be a great president. I think Abraham Lincoln, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan, they had little or no military experience. But I think there has to be a certain portion of people who are representatives have had those experiences to know what the lifestyle and the difficulties and challenges of military life entail. "
Sunday, April 04, 2004
North County Times - North San Diego and Southwest Riverside County News: "Homeland Security gets mixed reviews after first year
By: JO MORELAND - Staff Writer
NORTH COUNTY ---- A year after the formation of the giant U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the agency's hand can be felt across the region, whether it's screening baggage at Carlsbad's McClellan Palomar Airport or placing radiation-detection pagers in the hands of Poway firefighters.
'This was an organization that came together out of one of the worst tragedies in the nation's history,' said Lauren Mack, San Diego spokeswoman for the new Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) bureau, which operates under Homeland Security. 'We've gone through a lot in one year. And we know there's still a lot to do.' "
By: JO MORELAND - Staff Writer
NORTH COUNTY ---- A year after the formation of the giant U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the agency's hand can be felt across the region, whether it's screening baggage at Carlsbad's McClellan Palomar Airport or placing radiation-detection pagers in the hands of Poway firefighters.
'This was an organization that came together out of one of the worst tragedies in the nation's history,' said Lauren Mack, San Diego spokeswoman for the new Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) bureau, which operates under Homeland Security. 'We've gone through a lot in one year. And we know there's still a lot to do.' "
Saturday, April 03, 2004
FBI, Homeland Security warn of terror plots for buses, trains
04/03/2004
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Trains and buses in major U.S cities may be targeted this summer by terrorists using bombs hidden in bags or luggage, federal counterterrorism officials have told law enforcement and transportation officials in a nationwide bulletin.
FBI and Homeland Security Department officials said they had received uncorroborated intelligence reports about a plot by terrorists to target commercial transportation systems. The bulletin, issued late Thursday, mentioned no specific cities or dates and did not elaborate on the source of the information.
A senior federal law enforcement official, speaking yesterday on condition of anonymity, said the intelligence, coupled with the deadly March 11 commuter train attacks in Madrid in which bombs went off inside backpacks, has increased the level of wariness about a similar attack in the United States.
Amtrak spokesman Dan Stessel said the company stepped up security after the Madrid bombings, including use of bomb-sniffing dogs, although the company's trains have received no specific or credible threats. ''It should not be considered unusual that the FBI should issue this kind of a bulletin in the wake of what occurred in Madrid last month,'' Amtrak said in a statement."
04/03/2004
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Trains and buses in major U.S cities may be targeted this summer by terrorists using bombs hidden in bags or luggage, federal counterterrorism officials have told law enforcement and transportation officials in a nationwide bulletin.
FBI and Homeland Security Department officials said they had received uncorroborated intelligence reports about a plot by terrorists to target commercial transportation systems. The bulletin, issued late Thursday, mentioned no specific cities or dates and did not elaborate on the source of the information.
A senior federal law enforcement official, speaking yesterday on condition of anonymity, said the intelligence, coupled with the deadly March 11 commuter train attacks in Madrid in which bombs went off inside backpacks, has increased the level of wariness about a similar attack in the United States.
Amtrak spokesman Dan Stessel said the company stepped up security after the Madrid bombings, including use of bomb-sniffing dogs, although the company's trains have received no specific or credible threats. ''It should not be considered unusual that the FBI should issue this kind of a bulletin in the wake of what occurred in Madrid last month,'' Amtrak said in a statement."
"The voyage of the best ship is a zigzag line of a hundred tacks,"
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Ralph Waldo Emerson
DefenseLINK News: NORTHCOM Unit Recognized for Homeland Security Efforts: "By Anthony J. Falvo
Special to American Forces Press Service
NORFOLK, Va., April 1, 2004 � For its accomplishments and contributions to Operation Noble Eagle and the overall security of the United States, Standing Joint Force Headquarters-Homeland Security, a component command of U.S. Northern Command, received the Joint Meritorious Unit Award and the Global War on Terrorism Medal in a March 26 ceremony here."
Special to American Forces Press Service
NORFOLK, Va., April 1, 2004 � For its accomplishments and contributions to Operation Noble Eagle and the overall security of the United States, Standing Joint Force Headquarters-Homeland Security, a component command of U.S. Northern Command, received the Joint Meritorious Unit Award and the Global War on Terrorism Medal in a March 26 ceremony here."
The News-Record -- Gillette, Wyoming: "Homeland security grants still 'bottlenecked' in D.C.
The money for homeland security grants approved last year for Campbell County and other Wyoming communities still remains stuck in Washington D.C., Gov. Dave Freudenthal said Wednesday.
'Right now, it seems to be tied back to D.C.'s requirement,' he said during an hour-long meeting with the Gillette City Council.
The county and city still haven't seen a dime of the $440,000 from two grants approved last summer through the Wyoming Emergency Management Agency's Supplemental Grant Program.
The county and city also by now have a third grant application in the works for the program.
The federal government requires a detailed outline of spending for specific equipment items from the council, County Commission, Town of Wright and Campbell County Memorial Hospital.
The council spent part of its Wednesday breakfast meeting further reviewing the list of items for the two grants with law enforcement and emergency service officials."
The money for homeland security grants approved last year for Campbell County and other Wyoming communities still remains stuck in Washington D.C., Gov. Dave Freudenthal said Wednesday.
'Right now, it seems to be tied back to D.C.'s requirement,' he said during an hour-long meeting with the Gillette City Council.
The county and city still haven't seen a dime of the $440,000 from two grants approved last summer through the Wyoming Emergency Management Agency's Supplemental Grant Program.
The county and city also by now have a third grant application in the works for the program.
The federal government requires a detailed outline of spending for specific equipment items from the council, County Commission, Town of Wright and Campbell County Memorial Hospital.
The council spent part of its Wednesday breakfast meeting further reviewing the list of items for the two grants with law enforcement and emergency service officials."
AP Wire | 03/24/2004 | New Orleans to Begin Port Security System: "DOUG SIMPSON
Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS - Since 1936, a lone federal worker has sat in a tower along the Mississippi River, scanning the water with binoculars and radioing ship captains on whether to proceed or stop their vessels.
Not for long. The radioman will be gone by the end of the year, replaced by a new computerized system that will track and send messages to all large vessels on the lower Mississippi.
The system will be in place at all major U.S. seaports in 2005 - part of a security overhaul at the nation's ports, where officials fear a terrorist attack could cause economic and environmental disasters.
'Seaports have vulnerabilities that are far more difficult to address than airports,' said Kim Petersen, executive director of the Maritime Security Council, adviser to the State Department on maritime anti-terrorism. 'You have ports that have literally tens of thousands of miles of coastline that provide the possibility for access by criminals and terrorists.'"
Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS - Since 1936, a lone federal worker has sat in a tower along the Mississippi River, scanning the water with binoculars and radioing ship captains on whether to proceed or stop their vessels.
Not for long. The radioman will be gone by the end of the year, replaced by a new computerized system that will track and send messages to all large vessels on the lower Mississippi.
The system will be in place at all major U.S. seaports in 2005 - part of a security overhaul at the nation's ports, where officials fear a terrorist attack could cause economic and environmental disasters.
'Seaports have vulnerabilities that are far more difficult to address than airports,' said Kim Petersen, executive director of the Maritime Security Council, adviser to the State Department on maritime anti-terrorism. 'You have ports that have literally tens of thousands of miles of coastline that provide the possibility for access by criminals and terrorists.'"
Thursday, April 01, 2004
Technology Tri-Corridor Field Narrowed to 131
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 31, 2004
Contact: Paul Krepps
(517) 335-4590
Technology Tri-Corridor Field Narrowed to 131
Projects Under Review Target Job Creation in Three High-Tech Sectors
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that the Michigan Economic Development Corporation has received 131 full proposals for innovative projects seeking to benefit from $24 million in funding available from the Michigan Technology Tri-Corridor this year. The ultimate goal of the funding is to spur research, commercialization and job creation in the life sciences, advanced automotive manufacturing and homeland security industry sectors.
"One of the keys to creating new jobs in Michigan is to empower the entrepreneurs who are turning great research into commercial products," Granholm said. "The proposals we have received for this year's Technology Tri-Corridor funding represent many of the best ideas out there; now it is time to select the best of the best for funding that will help bring those ideas to fruition."
In her 2004 State of the State address, Governor Granholm announced a focused, seven-point plan for economic growth. The Technology Tri-Corridor is one element of the plan, targeting job creation in the three high-growth, high-opportunity industry sectors.
Proposals requesting a total of more than $176 million were received from universities, nonprofit and private research facilities, companies and individuals. Fifty-two proposals are in basic or applied research, while another 36 are for services related to commercialization, such as venture fund investment, brokering services, market research and strategic planning. The remaining 43 projects deal with technology ready for commercialization. All proposals are in the three sectors targeted by the Tri-Corridor.
The proposals include a wide range of projects, including a fuel cell commercialization incubator, an unmanned aerial vehicle for homeland security and a new treatment for acute renal failure. A complete summary of proposals can be viewed online at http://medc.michigan.org/ttc.
"The Technology Tri-Corridor initiative seeks out and supports those with the best ideas and the drive to make them happen, with the ultimate goal of growing and diversifying Michigan's economy," said MEDC President and CEO Don Jakeway. "Based on the quality of proposals we received, there will be some very exciting developments coming out of this year's pool of award recipients."
The Technology Tri-Corridor is built on the successful model of the Michigan Life Sciences Corridor. Between 2000 and 2003, the Life Sciences Corridor Fund allocated $175 million through 96 awards.
Final awards, expected to be announced in June, will be based on a competitive, independent peer review-based process conducted by the prestigious American Association for the Advancement of Sciences. AAAS will independently evaluate the proposals, interview candidates and make funding recommendations to the Tri-Corridor Steering Committee for final selections.
AAAS, publisher of Science magazine, is the world's largest association of scientists and engineers with 135,000 members.
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life.
Adrian Cazal
Muchmore Harrington Smalley & Associates, Inc.
124 West Allegan Street, Suite 500
Lansing, MI 48933
Phone: 517/484-8800
Fax: 517/484-4442
Michigan Tech Tri Cooridor Entrants
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 31, 2004
Contact: Paul Krepps
(517) 335-4590
Technology Tri-Corridor Field Narrowed to 131
Projects Under Review Target Job Creation in Three High-Tech Sectors
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that the Michigan Economic Development Corporation has received 131 full proposals for innovative projects seeking to benefit from $24 million in funding available from the Michigan Technology Tri-Corridor this year. The ultimate goal of the funding is to spur research, commercialization and job creation in the life sciences, advanced automotive manufacturing and homeland security industry sectors.
"One of the keys to creating new jobs in Michigan is to empower the entrepreneurs who are turning great research into commercial products," Granholm said. "The proposals we have received for this year's Technology Tri-Corridor funding represent many of the best ideas out there; now it is time to select the best of the best for funding that will help bring those ideas to fruition."
In her 2004 State of the State address, Governor Granholm announced a focused, seven-point plan for economic growth. The Technology Tri-Corridor is one element of the plan, targeting job creation in the three high-growth, high-opportunity industry sectors.
Proposals requesting a total of more than $176 million were received from universities, nonprofit and private research facilities, companies and individuals. Fifty-two proposals are in basic or applied research, while another 36 are for services related to commercialization, such as venture fund investment, brokering services, market research and strategic planning. The remaining 43 projects deal with technology ready for commercialization. All proposals are in the three sectors targeted by the Tri-Corridor.
The proposals include a wide range of projects, including a fuel cell commercialization incubator, an unmanned aerial vehicle for homeland security and a new treatment for acute renal failure. A complete summary of proposals can be viewed online at http://medc.michigan.org/ttc.
"The Technology Tri-Corridor initiative seeks out and supports those with the best ideas and the drive to make them happen, with the ultimate goal of growing and diversifying Michigan's economy," said MEDC President and CEO Don Jakeway. "Based on the quality of proposals we received, there will be some very exciting developments coming out of this year's pool of award recipients."
The Technology Tri-Corridor is built on the successful model of the Michigan Life Sciences Corridor. Between 2000 and 2003, the Life Sciences Corridor Fund allocated $175 million through 96 awards.
Final awards, expected to be announced in June, will be based on a competitive, independent peer review-based process conducted by the prestigious American Association for the Advancement of Sciences. AAAS will independently evaluate the proposals, interview candidates and make funding recommendations to the Tri-Corridor Steering Committee for final selections.
AAAS, publisher of Science magazine, is the world's largest association of scientists and engineers with 135,000 members.
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life.
Adrian Cazal
Muchmore Harrington Smalley & Associates, Inc.
124 West Allegan Street, Suite 500
Lansing, MI 48933
Phone: 517/484-8800
Fax: 517/484-4442
Michigan Tech Tri Cooridor Entrants
