NASA awards IT pact for SSC

NASA has selected SaiTech Inc., a woman-owned small business based in Bethesda, Md., to provide information technology services at the agency’s Stennis Space Center (SSC), Miss. The firm fixed-price and fixed-price level-of-effort contract begins Sept. 1, 2021, and includes a one-month phase-in period, a 12-month base period, and four option periods, for a total performance period of up to five years. The contract has a potential total value of approximately $30.8 million. SaiTech will provide information technology support services to Stennis and its tenant organizations and contractors. The support services include information technology planning, policy and management services, application and system services, technology support services, and audio visual/video/still photography services. (Source: NASA/SSC, 07/30/21)

MS grads hired by Memphis firm

Tioga Environmental Consultants of Memphis, Tenn., has hired Brandon King and Allie Barnett. King joins as a project coordinator. Barnett is an environmental scientist. King will perform inspections for hazardous materials, including lead-based paint inspections, mold sampling, and soil and groundwater sampling. He earned a master’s degree in hazardous materials management from Jackson State University. Barnett, a Mississippi State University graduate, will assist in assessing streams and wetlands, conducting Phase I Environmental Site Assessments and completing required National Environmental Policy Act documents for projects. She previously served as a lab technician for the Mississippi State Forest Soils Laboratory. (Source: Commercial Appeal 07/29/21)

Northrop reports +3% revenue

Northrop Grumman (NOC) reported a 3 percent increase in overall revenue for the 2Q of FY 2021 that came in at $2.7B. Revenue for the mission systems segment grew 6 percent to $2.6B, according to its financial statement. NOC expects FY-21 sales of up to $36.2B, with an outlook of earnings at $24.40-to-$24.80 per share (FY-20 earnings: $24.00-to-$24.50). (Source: GovWire 07/30/29/21) Gulf Coast Note: Northrop Grumman has at least three Gulf Coast locations: Two in Mississippi in Iuka and Moss Point; and in Lake Charles, La.

NAS/JRB part of F-5 F/N pact

PAE Aviation and Technical Services LLC, Arlington, Virginia, is awarded a $98,000,000 firm-fixed-price, cost reimbursable, cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. This contract provides organizational, selected intermediate, limited depot level maintenance and logistics support services for the F-5 F/N aircraft. Work will be performed at Naval Air Station (NAS) Key West, Florida (32%); NAS Fallon, Nevada (30%); Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Arizona (25%); and NAS Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Louisiana (13%), and is expected to be completed in January 2023. No funds will be obligated at the time of award. Funds will be obligated on individual orders as they are issued.  This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-1. Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity. (Source: DoD 07/29/21)

KAFB hosts cyber ops conference

KEESLER AFB, Miss. - The 81st Training Support Squadron hosted a Cyber Operations Specialty Training and Requirements Team conference July 19-23. “The conference was held to ensure the upcoming evolution from cyberspace support to cyberspace operations is a smooth transition," said Staff Sgt. Matthew Storer, 81st TRSS cyberspace support force development non-com in charge,. "It impacts the entirety of the cyberspace support career field by creating baseline requirements for training." Participants included cyberspace support career field managers, functional managers from each of the 10 major commands, plus National Guard and Reserve, and representation from Space Force Cyber. A partnership was formed between Air Combat Command and AETC to reimagine training that works in order to develop the 30,000 total force cyber Airman capable of conducting the build, security, protection and defense mission of the Air Force network enterprise. “Future conflicts will be fought and won in cyber, and we need to develop and deliver a mission-ready cyber force armed for tomorrow’s fight,” said Chief Master Sgt. Patricia Ford, ACC support functional manager. “The capability of our cyber Airmen will be the deciding factor between mission success and mission failure.” (Source: 81st TW 07/29/21)

Brewer to lead Oxford chamber

Quentin Brewer, an executive with BancorpSouth's Oxford branch, will become chairman of the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce following the end of current director Wayne Andrews’ four-year tenure. Before moving to Oxford in 2014, Brewer was president of the Clinton (Miss.) Chamber. (Source: OXford Eagle 07/27/21) Brewer to head board for the Chamber of Commerce - The Oxford Eagle | The Oxford Eagle

GDP grew at 6.5% in Q2

WASHINGTON - The American economy grew at a 6.5 percent annual rate for the April-June quarter (Q2), according to a report released from the U.S. Commerce Department, which estimated the nation’s GDP accelerated form the 6.3 percent growth of Q1. The figures were below the 8 percent-plus growth some economists had predicted, due mainly to clogged supply chains. (Source: The AP 07/289/21) US economy surpasses pre-pandemic size with 6.5% Q2 growth (wtok.com) 

Contractor charged in KAFB death

BILOXI, Miss. - A Keesler AFB, Miss., airman was killed and three others injured in a vehicle accident here onboard the base, military officials said. In a statement, KAFB said the wreck occurred July 28 and involved pedestrians. The statement called the crash an accident, and not related to training. The as-yet-to-be identified airman was assigned to the 81st Training Wing. No details were given about the three others. Officials say the name of the airman won’t be released until 24 hours after relatives are notified. (Source: The AP 07/28/21) 

UPDATE: A civilian contractor is now facing federal charges after a fatal vehicle accident involving pedestrians on Keesler Air Force Base, according to the FBI. An airman with the 81st Training Wing was killed. Three others were injured in the single-vehicle crash, which happened on base around 1:25 p.m. on July 28. Two of the men were treated at the Keesler Medical Center and the third at a medical facility in New Orleans. All three are currently in stable condition. (Source: WLOX 07/29/21) FBI: Civilian facing federal charges in fatal accident at Keesler AFB (wtok.com)

Camgian R&D expanding ops

Camgian Microsystems, a high-tech research and product development firm, is expanding its operation within the Thad Cochran Research, Technology and Economic Development Park in Starkville, Miss. In March, Camgian was awarded a $6.9M Army contract to develop a next-generation intelligent system for detecting and defeating unmanned aerial threats to the military. Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) certified Camgian for the Advantage Jobs Rebate Program, which is available for eligible businesses that create new jobs exceeding the average annual wage of the state or county in which the company locates or expands. “Camgian is a golden example of a high-tech Mississippi company doing great things" here and abroad, says Gov. Tate Reeves.  Camgian, founded in Starkville in 2006,  an award-winning developer of intelligent software systems powered by data and artificial intelligence designed to drive improvements in the speed and quality of critical decisions for the U.S. military and world’s leading corporations. (Source: Area Development 07/28/21) Camgian Microsystems Expands Starkville, Mississippi, Operations Center - Area Development

NEMCC offers new e-Learning

BOONEVILLE, Miss. - Northeast Mississippi Community College (NEMCC) is among the top in the nation when it comes to online education. The Booneville-based college hopes to incorporate a new Workforce e-Learning platform. Through the platform, Northeast can help employers in Alcorn, Prentiss, Tippah, Tishomingo and Union counties, and provide an advanced method of learning for the thousands of employees in the area. Under the platform, Northeast will use the Amatrol eLearning curriculum, which includes more than 700 training modules. Modules can be custom-built for any specific industry. (Source: NEMCC 07/29/21) NEMCC announces new free Workforce e-Learning platform (meritpages.com)

Panel proposes amphib block buy

WASHINGTON - The House Armed Services Committee's sea power subpanel advanced a proposal to give the Navy authority to block-buy amphibious ships for another year designed to save taxpayer dollars. says Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Va.) If passed, Wittman’s proposal would extend authorities from the FY-21's defense budget related to a bundled contract for the amphibious assault ship LHA-9 and amphibious transport docks 31, 32 and 33. The panel's action follows Sen. Roger Wicker’s (R-Miss.) efforts to pressure DoD into following through with a mandated rule to buy four amphibs in a “block buy.” Wicker's state is home to Ingalls Shipbuilding, which builds destroyers and amphibs. (Source: Defense News 07/28/21) Huntington Ingalls Industries’ (HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division in Pascagoula, Miss., received a contract modification in April from the Navy for $107M million to provide long-lead-time material and advance procurement activities for amphibious assault ship LHA 9. Ingalls is the sole builder of large-deck amphibious ships for the Navy. The future USS Bougainville (LHA 8) is under construction. Sea power panel backs block buy of amphibious ships (defensenews.com)

La. firm's $9.9M mod pact

Alpha Marine Services, Galliano, Louisiana, is awarded a $9,949,535 option (P00013) for contract N3220520C2257. The option is a firm-fixed-price contract with reimbursable elements to support Military Sealift Command’s contract for the time charter of seven tractor-like tugs in support of Navy bases at Kings Bay, Georgia; and Mayport, Florida. This option is the first of the current contract. The current contract includes a one-year firm period of performance, three one-year options periods; and one 11-month option period. The cumulative value of this contract, if all options are exercised, is $55,177,663. Work will be performed in Kings Bay (50%); and Mayport (50%), and is expected to be completed, if all options are exercised, by June 30, 2025. Working Navy capital funds in the amount of $9,949,535 for Option One are currently available for performance under this contract action. This procurement was released under full and open competition, with an unlimited number of companies solicited via the beta.sam.gov website and three offers were received. Navy’s Military Sealift Command, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity. (Source: DoD 07/28/21)

Southern Sky buys MS airport firm

Birmingham, Ala.-based Southern Sky Aviation has acquired Sky Warrior Flight Support, the lone service provider at Trent Lott International Airport in Pascagoula, Miss. The company also offers aircraft charter, management, sales, maintenance services. The airport is temporarily closed due to runway resurfacing. Southern Sky  will take the time off to refurbish the terminal. A grand re-opening is tentatively scheduled for October. (Source: AIN Online 07/21/21) 

M$U: Reducing carbon emissions

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) announced $60M in funding for a group of 32 university-based Industrial Assessment Centers (IACs) designed to aid manufacturers in reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy costs and training the next generation training. The funding is to assist in removing barriers and leading to decarbonization that advances the Biden Administration’s goal of achieving a clean energy economy. The 32 universities will focus on improving productivity, enhancing cybersecurity, promoting resiliency planning, and providing trainings to entities located in disadvantaged communities. The group will also engage in a a pilot project to expand to the commercial building market. (Source: DoE 07/26/21) Among the group of universities in Gulf Coast states are Mississippi State, LSU and Louisiana Tech. DOE Announces New $60 Million Investment to Increase Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing | Department of Energy

Lebak to lead nuke lab clearn up

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. -  Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) announced July 27 that Kimberly Lebak of its Technical Solutions division has been named president and general manager of an HII and BWX Technologies (BWXT) joint venture to performs cleanup work at the Department of Energy's Los Alamos (N.M.) National Laboratory. As president/GM of N3B, Lebak is responsible for managing the 10-year, $1.4B contract for DoE's Energy Environmental Management office in New Mexico. She joined HII in 2018 after nearly 30 years at DoE. From 2014-17, she was manager of the National Nuclear Security Administration's Los Alamos Field Office, and oversaw federal operations at the laboratory. (Source: HII 07/27/21)

SECNAV nominee headed to Senate

In a voice vote July 27, the Senate Armed Services Committee advanced President Biden's nominee for Secretary of the Navy, along with four other civilian nominations, to the full Senate for a vote. SECNAV is the last service secretary the administration needs approved after Frank Kendall was confirmed as Air Force secretary, and Army Secretary Christine Wormuth in May. Del Toro is a Cuban-born Naval Academy graduate whose 22-year Navy career included commanding the USS Bulkeley destroyer and deploying during Operation Desert Storm. Since 2004, Del Toro has run a small IT firm he founded, SBG Technology in Virginia. (Source: The Hill 07/27/21) 

CG rescues downed pilot in La.

NEW ORLEANS - The Coast Guard rescued one person from a down aircraft in Fourleague Bay, south of Morgan City, La., on July 27. CG Sector New Orleans received a report at 8:18 a.m. of a single engine 2002 Cessna 182T airplane had crashed into the bay/ One person was seen exiting the aircraft. The CG launched a New Orleans-based MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew to assist. The crew and a St. Mary's Parish Sheriff's Department boatcrew both arrived on scene. The helicopter crew hoisted the person from the water and took the person to awaiting emergency medical services at a local airport near Morgan City. The person reportedly only had minor injuries. (Source: Coast Guard 8th District 078/27/21)

Vertex prototype mishap at Eglin

EGLIN AFB, Fla. - A Bronco II prototype aircraft, in competition to  become the new workhorse for the U.S. Special Operations Command, had an unspecified runway mishap here on July 9. The mishap involved one of the five prototype aircraft. The incident happened on an Eglin AFB runway where the aircraft was undergoing maintenance. Details remain sketchy. The mishap involved a single-engine turboprop aircraft - dubbed Bronco II, a light-attack aircraft being modified by contract partners Leidos,  Paramount Group USA, and Vertex Aerospace, a Madison, Miss., HQ'd aerospace defense contractor with facilities in Crestview, Fla. The three firms are teaming to pursue a new contract to deliver the Bronco II, which will be built at Vertex's Crestview, Fla., facility. [www.bronco-usa.com]. Source: NW Florida Daily News 07/27/21)

Oxford hospital begins IM residency

Baptist Memorial Hospital North Mississippi began its first medical residency in Internal Medicine at the Oxford, Miss., hospital in July with 12 doctors. Baptist hospital has hosted Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs in Memphis for 30 years, and expanded in 2017 to include community-based residency programs at BMH-Golden Triangle. Baptist submitted an application to establish the IM program in 2020 to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), which awarded Baptist the initial accreditation in January. The goal of the program is to increase the number of physicians in Mississippi and Mid-South region to boost healthcare. Mississippi ranked last with the fewest physicians (19.3) per 100.000 population, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. Also, the state had 65.9 active primary care physicians per 100,000 population, which is below the nation's state median of 90.8. (Source: Oxford Eagle 07/23/21)

HII leaders briefing Aug. 2 in Md.

Huntington Ingalls Industries' (HII) company leadership will discuss (with media) its positioning related to national security at a 10 a.m. (CT) briefing on Aug. 2 during the Sea Air Space 2021 conference in Maryland. The HII leaders scheduled to participate include Chris Kastner, HII executive VP/COO; Jennifer Boykin, executive VP/president, Newport News (Va.) Shipbuilding; Kari Wilkinson, executive VP/president of Ingalls Shipbuilding in Mississippi; and Andy Green, executive VP/president of HII's Technical Solutions division. (Source: HII 07/26/21)

Jones confirmed No. 2 civ w/ AF

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Senate unanimously confirmed Gina Ortiz Jones to be Under Secretary of the Air Force on July 22, clearing the way for the former AF intelligence officer to become the second highest-ranking civilian leader. Jones was commissioned through the Air Force ROTC program at Boston University and “has spent her career working to protect U.S. economic and national security,” according to the  White House. During her AF career, Jones served as an intelligence officer and deployed to Iraq with the 18th Air Support Operations Group, supporting close air support operations. Additionally, at a time when the president at SECDEF have made diversity and inclusion high priorities across the services, she brings insight to the effort as a member of the LGBTQ community who served under “don’t ask, don’t tell.” (Source: Secretary of the Air Force 07/22/21)

Austal earns 14th SCA safety award

MOBILE, Ala. - Austal USA has earned the Shipbuilders Council of America’s (SCA) 2020 Excellence in Safety award. It is the 14th SCA safety award the shipbuilder has earned in its 20-year history, including the last seven years. At Austal USA, "safety is at the core of our culture," Austal interim president Rusty Murdaugh said in a media release. Providing safe working environment to its workforce "is our number one priority,” SCA’s award is based on Austal’s commitment to safety by maintaining a Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) that is well below the respective Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) industry average assigned for shipbuilding. (Source: Austal USA 07/26/21) Austal USA earns 14th Shipbuilders Council of America safety award | Austal: Corporate

Danford earns top DYWM award

MERIDIAN, Miss. - Christina Danford of Forrest County was named winner of the 2022 Distinguished Young Woman of Mississippi program that concluded here this weekend. In addition, Danford also received preliminary awards in fitness and scholastic and named the overall talent winner. She will represent the state at the national program next summer in Mobile, Ala. (Source: WTOK 07/24/21) Hattiesburg is the county seat of Forrest.

'Divine intervention' on MS hwy?

Months after their first chance encounter, Michael Williams still speaks with amazement of the time he crossed paths with Mississippi State Trooper Caleb McQueen along a Hancock County highway. The New Orleans native has shared the story many times of the officer’s act of kindness and empathy after finding out that McQueen's younger brother had been killed in a triple shooting in Algiers, La., on March 28. McQueen was in Mississippi to place some sports bets at a casino, and stopped for speeding on the way home. The night before, McQueen had asked for a sign from his deceased brother "just (to) let me know he’s all right ... I felt like my brother heard me and sent an officer to intervene. It was divine intervention.”(Source: The AP 07/25/21) 'It was divine intervention' Traffic stop ends with hug between trooper, speeding driver - Magnolia State Live | Magnolia State Live

Ret CG flag named to IPC board

Retired Coast Guard Rear Adm. Joel Whitehead has been selected by the board of directors of the International Propeller Club (IPC) as executive vice president with responsibility of day-to-day operations and functions and as primary liaison to the club’s 70 port chapters globally. Whitehead is the president of J. Whitehead & Associates Inc., a maritime consulting firm in metro New Orleans. During his 38-year CG career, he served in various operational assignments, including that of commander of the 8th Coast Guard District in New Orleans. (Source: NOLA.com 07/25/21)

Bollinger christens OTC Holland

LOCKPORT, La. - Bollinger Shipyards christened the ocean transport barge Holland for General Dynamics Electric Boat, of Groton, Conn. Holland will support construction and maintenance of the  Navy's Columbia Class Ballistic Missile and Virginia Class fast attack submarines. Electric Boat is the prime contractor on the design and build of the Columbia class submarine, which will replace Ohio Class subs. Electric Boat selected Bollinger in November 2019 to construct the Holland, a 400-by-100-foot Ocean Transport Barge. Bollinger performed the detail design engineering at its Lockport facility. Construction was at Bollinger's Marine Fabrication facility in Amelia, La. (Source: Bollinger 07/12/21)

La. shipyard contract: $8.7M

Conrad Shipyard, Morgan City, Louisiana, was awarded an $8,746,716 firm-fixed-price contract for procurement and construction of a new floating dry dock. Bids were solicited via the internet with three received. Work will be performed in Morgan City, with an estimated completion date of Jan. 18, 2023. Fiscal 2010 overseas humanitarian, disaster and civic aid, defense funds in the amount of $8,746,716 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is the contracting activity. (Source: DoD 07/23/21)

DHS, USM team evaluating Tritons

The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is evaluating innovative ocean surveillance technology to support the Coast Guard’s mission of protecting the nation's 95,000 miles of maritime border, inland waterways and seaports. S&T has teamed with the CG, and among other entities that include the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) to develop, acquire, evaluate, and test specialized, wind and solar powered multi-mission capable, unmanned surface and underwater vessels. Initial acceptance testing of six Triton vessels was conducted at USM’s Marine Research Center (MRC) at the Port of Gulfport. During ongoing testing, the team will utilize MRC’s specialized lab and waterfront access to evaluate the Tritons’ capabilities in areas that include navigation, surface, diving, and subsurface operations; operating effectively for long periods of time using only wind and solar power; and use of it as a platform for cameras and advanced sensors to anomalies and threats. AVs represent an emerging technology that "could be integrated into various Coast Guard missions,” said Scott Craig, unmanned systems research and development lead for the CG. The teams will continue to evaluate the Tritons throughout the summer offshore in Gulfport. (Source: Work Boat 07/23/21) DHS tests innovative autonomous surface and underwater ocean surveillance technology | WorkBoat

HII authenticates keel of cutter

PASCAGOULA, Miss. - Huntington Ingalls Industries’ (HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division ceremonially authenticated the keel of Legend-class national security cutter Calhoun (WMSL 759) on July 23. Calhoun has reached the halfway point of its construction. Ingalls is the builder-of-record for the Legend-class NSC program and has delivered cutters - two more are under construction. NSC #10 is named for Charles L. Calhoun, the first master chief petty officer of the Coast Guard. Ship sponsor Christina Calhoun Zubowicz, granddaughter of Master Chief Calhoun, wrote her initials onto a steel plate that will be welded inside the cutter. (Source: HII 07/23/21)

CAFB Tech Sgt to join Thunderbirds

COLUMBUS AFB, Miss. - The Air Force’s Thunderbirds flight demonstration team are known for demonstrating incredible capabilities of their F-16 Fighting Falcon jets. Columbus Air Force Base’s Tech. Sgt. Teddrick Thibodeaux, 14th Operations Support Squadron Aircrew Flight Equipment (AFE) flight chief, has been selected to join the Thunderbirds starting in September, but it won’t be the last time CAFB will see him. With the team’s new airshow season approaching in early 2022. Thibodeaux will return to Mississippi to work the ‘Wings Over Columbus’ airshow. (Source: CAFB 07/22/21) CAFB Airman joins excellence legacy > Columbus Air Force Base > Article Display 

MS ‘Flying Jennies’ airlift in Alaska

Leaving the heat, humidity and rain of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and heading north to Alaska for cooler temperatures and training, the 815th Airlift Squadron (AS) put its Reserve Airmen to the test from July 13-16. Working with the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Airborne, 25th Infantry Division, the 815th AS provided airlift for more than 1,300 paratroopers as well as airdrops for heavy equipment on Day 4 of a training exercise at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. (Source: 403rd Wing 07/22/21) Mississippi Note: The 815th AS is a flying unit of the Air Force assigned to the Air Force Reserve Command and part of the 403d Wing at Keesler AFB, Miss. It operates Lockheed C-130J Hercules aircraft providing global airlift. Flying Jennies train in Alaska > U.S. Air Force > Article Display (af.mil)

La. firm's Navy contract: $22M

Stratus Systems Inc., Belle Chasse, Louisiana, is awarded a $22,036,558 firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for engineering, technical, administrative and programmatic management support for total life cycle management of the various aircrew escape systems managed under the Joint Program Office for Cartridge Actuated Device/Propellant Actuated Device Tri-Service Charter. Work will be performed in Belle Chasse and is expected to be completed by September 2025. Fiscal 2021 Navy working capital funding of $500 will be obligated on the first task order at time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured and in accordance with 10 U.S. Code 2304(c)(1) — only limited number of responsible sources will satisfy agency requirements. Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division, Indian Head, Maryland, is the contracting activity. (Source: DoD 07/22/21)

Endangered turtles release to GoM

PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. - Six of the most endangered sea turtles in the world are now swimming in the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) after being released here July 20 by the Gulfport-based Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS). Dozens of people came to the Mississippi Sound beach to watch the release of the Kemp-Ridley turtles, including officials from both Louisiana and Mississippi who stressed the importance of conservation. The turtles were rescued from the cold waters of Massachusetts before being flown to South Mississippi. IMMS partnered with the Mississippi State School of Veterinary Studies to successfully rehabilitate the turtles. (Source: WLOX 07/21/21) Most endangered sea turtles in the world released into Mississippi Sound (wlox.com)

EDA: Investing in America grants

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced six programs on July 22 that collectively called Investing in America’s Communities that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) will execute to equitably invest $3B in grants it received from the President’s American Rescue Plan. The EDA investment is the largest economic development initiative from the Department of Commerce in decades. Investing in America’s Communities includes: Build Back Better Regional Challenge ($1B); Good Jobs Challenge ($500M); Economic Adjustment Assistance ($500M); Indigenous Communities ($100M); Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation ($750M); and Statewide Planning, Research and Networks ($90M). For more information, visit www.eda.gov/ARPA. For the latest news on EDA’s implementation plans. Communities can apply for these grants. (Source: Economic Development Agency 07/22/12) U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo Announces $3 Billion Investment in America’s Communities | U.S. Economic Development Administration (eda.gov) 

MS port authority meets July 22

The Mississippi State Port Authority’s board of commissioners is scheduled to meet Thursday, July 22, at 1 p.m., in the Port’s Administrative Office on the 14th floor of the Hancock Bank Plaza at 2510 14th Street in Gulfport. Board meetings are open to the public. (Source: MSPA 07/21)

Port NOLA celebrates 125 years

The Port of New Orleans (Port NONLA) celebrated its 125th anniversary of its July 9 founding as an independent subdivision of the State of Louisiana. In 1896, the Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans was created by the Louisiana Legislature to administer public wharves and regulate trade and traffic on the Mississippi River in Jefferson, Orleans and St. Bernard parishes. (Source: Port NOLA 07/09/21) Port NOLA | Port of New Orleans Celebrates 125th Anniversary of the…

SASC proposing 2.7% pay raise

The Senate Armed Services Committee is preparing to back a 2.7 percent pay raise for troops and Defense Department employees, but decisions on increases for National Guard specialty pay and other military compensation remain in debate format over the Senate’s draft mark-up of the FY-2022 defense authorization bill. The White House and House Appropriations Committee have already publicly backed a 2.7 percent raise. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and chair of the committee’s personnel panel, said the proposed raise shows support for keeping military pay levels strong and renews support for DoD civilians. "We might finally include a pay raise for civilians that matches inflation,” she said. The proposed pay would be lower than what troops saw this year (3 percent), but equal to federal formulas for civilian wage increases. (Source: Military Times 07/20/21) 2.7 percent raise for troops, DoD civilians next year gains momentum (militarytimes.com)

RFI posted for AF 'bridge' tanker

The Air Force released a July 19 request for information (RFI) to the defense industry for the proposed “bridge tanker” as a follow-on to the KC-46. The RFI came with a list of questions emphasizing how the future refueling tanker will continue the AF’s push for improved command and control on its aircraft. The proposal calls for 140-to-160 commercial aircraft to come online after the last KC-46 is delivered in 2029. The aircraft would be a replacement for the aging KC-135 fleet and to cover the timeline until the AF develops its future Advanced Air Refueling Tanker. Delivery of the proposed aircraft would begin no earlier than 2029 at a rate of 12 annually. While the AF looks for any company to respond to its FRI, there are currently only two that fit the bill: The existing Pegasus-built KC-46 and the Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport. Gulf Coast Note: Airbus lost out in its initial bid for the tanker in a controversial decision – after originally being awarded the contract to build the aircraft in Mobile, Ala. (Source: AF Magazine 07/20/21) Air Force Asks Industry for Info on a ‘Bridge Tanker’ - Air Force Magazine 

No ICU beds in 5 MS hospitals

Five of Mississippi’s largest hospitals “had no intensive care unit beds available for patients by midweek because of a surge in coronavirus cases," The AP quotes Dr. Thomas Dobbs, the state’s top health officer. Four hospitals had 5 percent or less of ICU beds available. Surges in hospitalization and infection rates increased when many states largely reopened restaurants and other businesses in June. Among Gulf Coast states hard hit recently by the coronavirus are Alabama and Florida. (Source: Mississippi Today 07/20/21) Delta variant now responsible for all new COVID cases, Dobbs says | Mississippi Today

Update: Afghans arrive at Dulles

The U.S. State Department asked the Pentagon to provide a temporary initial location to house up to 2,500 Afghan citizens as part of the "Operation Allies Refuge" program. DoD recommended Fort Lee, Va., as the first site, according to Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby. For 20 years, Afghan nationals have lent assistance to U.S. military operations. With operations ending Aug. 31, the U.S. has made plans to move those civilians and families to locations under special immigrant visa (SIV) applications. This initial group - about 700 Afghans and 1,800 family members - are in the final stages of the SIV process. Kirby says he expects the group would only be at Fort Lee for a few days before being resettled elsewhere in the U.S., Kirby said. The Army at Fort Lee will provide food, and medical care (if needed), he said. All the Afghans coming to the U.S. will be medically screened before boarding planes. (Source: DoD 07/20/21) In the DoD news article, there was no mention of permanent U.S. re-location sites. Incidentally, Fort Lee is among the bases being considered for renaming. It was named for CSA Gen. Robert E. Lee.

UPDATE: The first flight of evacuating Afghan interpreters and others (221 overall) who worked with the U.S. military in Afghanistan landed early July 30 at Washington Dulles International Airport, according to an internal U.S. government document and a commercial flight tracking service. Among the 221 were 57 children and 15 babies, according to the document obtained by The Associated Press.  

Environ work @ La., Miss. bases

Tetra Tech Inc., Norfolk, Virginia, is awarded a $90,000,000 cost-plus-award-fee modification to previously-awarded, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N62470-16-D-9008) to increase the maximum dollar value and extend the period of performance for comprehensive long-term environmental architect-engineering services on Navy and Marine Corps installations at sites in the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Atlantic area of responsibility. This modification increases the total cumulative value of the contract to $368,000,000. Work will be performed in Maryland (13%), Pennsylvania (13%), Florida (11%), Rhode Island (8%), Washington (8%), California (7%), Massachusetts (6%), Texas (6%), Mississippi (5%), New York (4%), Maine (3%), Arizona (2%), Connecticut (2%), Indiana (2%), Louisiana (2%), New Jersey (2%), South Carolina (2%), Georgia (1%), Illinois (1%), North Carolina (1%), and Nevada (1%), and is expected to be completed by April 2022. No funds will be obligated at time of award. Funds will be obligated on individual task orders as they are issued. Task orders will be primarily funded by Navy environmental restoration funds. Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Atlantic, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity. (Source: DoD 07/20/21)

MSU alumnae are Fulbright finalists

STARKVILLE, Miss. - Two alumnae of Mississippi State University’s Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College have been named finalists for the U.S. government’s Fulbright international exchange program. They are Donielle D. Allen of McCalla, Ala., a spring 2020 microbiology graduate, and Shanika R. Musser of Starkville, a spring 2021 civil engineering graduate. The Fulbright student program is devoted to increasing mutual understanding through open communication and long-term cooperative relationships. Allen plans to expand her knowledge of the Chinese language and traditional Chinese medicine while pursuing a Master of Science in public health at National Taiwan University. Musser plans to visit and conduct research at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, India. The research focus will be on biochar, a material she began studying at MSU’s chemistry department. Biochar can be made from any biowaste material. “There’s a lot of rice in India, so I would like to use rice husks and develop biochar that could remove arsenic and other contaminants from drinking water.” (Source: MSU 07/20/21) Adventures in Asia: MSU’s new Fulbright finalists eager to visit Taiwan, India | Mississippi State University (msstate.edu)

McCall leads CAVS Extension

CANTON, Miss. - Tonya G. McCall is leading Mississippi State University’s Center for Advanced Vehicular System (CAVS) Extension center in Canton in support of the state’s manufacturing industry. McCall began duties in late June following the retirement of former director Glenn Dennis. McCall has a quarter century of engineering experience combined in the aerospace, plant construction, home appliance and automotive industries. She previously served as associate director for CAVS Extension, which has created a $6.2B economic impact since 2006 in Mississippi. She has held various positions at the CAVS Extension since 2015 leading engineering design projects, teaching professional development courses, led research teams and managed applied research projects. The Canton-based CAVS Extension serves as the outreach arm of the CAVS research facility on MSU’s Starkville campus. CAVS Extension helps manufacturers by providing technical expertise, industry-focused professional development, and on-site project support in the areas of product and process improvement. (Source: MSU 07/20/21) McCall named director of MSU CAVS Extension | Mississippi State University (msstate.edu)

MS aero firm boosts Blue Origin

Blue Origin successfully launched four civilians – including billionaire owner Jeff Bezos - into space July 20. The foursome traveled almost 11 minutes to and from space where they were able to experience weightlessness and view Earth. With the success of Blue Origin, civilians are now able to see the future for space travel. Eaton Aerospace of Jackson, Miss., produced the hydraulic pumps that powered the ship's controls, landing gears, and rocket propulsion valves. The company also provides those parts for planes, tanks and submarines. "A lot of the spacecrafts have some of our hydraulic components on it," Eaton Aerospace team leader David Hayes told WAPT. Eaton’s hydraulic pumps were also on the first-ever Blue Origin flight in 2015. (Source: WAPT 07/20/21)

NASM supporter passes away

MERIDIAN, Miss. - Meridian businessman/community leader Lamar McDonald died July 13 at the age of 94. He also served on the Meridian City Council from 1965-73. The Navy veteran played a key role in saving Naval Air Station Meridian (NASM) from the base closure commission several times, and preserving the missions and jobs connected to the Mississippi National Guard. He was appointed by Gov. Haley Barbour to chair the Mississippi Military Communities Council. NASM released a statement to honor McDonald: “On behalf of the military service members, civilian employees, and families of NAS Meridian and Training Air Wing One, we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Lamar McDonald upon his passing.” Following graduation from Meridian High School, Lamar joined the Navy in 1944. After military service, Lamar returned home to become an influential member of the business community and state. (Source: WTOK 07/15/21) Former city councilman Lamar McDonald dies at 94 (wtok.com) 

GC shipyard's $16M contract

The Gulf Coast's Alabama Shipyard LLC, of Mobile, Alabama, is awarded a $16,478,585 firm, fixed-price contract for a 76-calendar day shipyard availability for the regular overhaul/dry docking on the USNS William Mclean (T-AKE 12). The contract includes options, which, if exercised, would bring the total contract value to $16,478,585. Work will be performed in Mobile, Alabama, and is expected to be completed by Nov. 24, 2021. Contract funds in the amount of $16,194,215 are obligated in fiscal 2021 using Navy working capital funds. This contract was competitively procured with proposals solicited via the SAM.gov website. Three offers were received. Military Sealift Command, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity. (Source: DoD 07/19/21)

Memphis VA hits bottom wrung

In a first of its kind survey to include VA hospitals, inpatient experience at the Memphis (Tenn.) VA Medical Center rated worse, on average, than any hospital in America. The Memphis facility was the only VA facility in the U.S. to get a one-star (out of five) rating for patient experience, according to the HCAHPS (Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) survey. HCAMPS is the first national, standardized, publicly reported survey of patients' perspectives of hospital care. As of late last week, half of VA hospitals with ratings on the site - 60/121 - earned at least a four-star, according to a USA TODAY review. VA facilities with too few patients or data, and that don’t provide inpatient care, were not included. A federal website, Care Compare, now allows veterans to compare patient perceptions of care at VA and non-VA hospitals based on industry-standard star ratings. (Source: Commercial Appeal 07/19/21) Memphis VA hospital ranked among the worst in the country — again (commercialappeal.com)

Oxford Olympians down to one

OXFORD, Miss. - The Northeast Mississippi town of Oxford was jumping for joy and in a July 16 celebratory send-off of two of its citizens heading for competition at the Tokyo Olympics. Oxford Square was in a “Jump Oxford Jump” mode as hundreds gathered to show support Sam Kendricks and Shelby McEwen. Kendricks, who won a Bronze Medal in the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, is competing in the pole vault. McEwen is going to his first Olympics and competing in the high jump. (Source: WMC-TV 07/16/21) Send-off parade held in Oxford for two Olympic athletes competing in Tokyo (wtok.com)e 

UPDATE: American world-champion pole vaulter Sam Kendricks will miss the Olympics after testing positive for COVID-19, his dad posted on social media, and later confirmed by U.S. Olympic officials.

UPDATE2: The Olympian posted on social media. Mississippi Olympian Sam Kendricks speaks out after positive COVID-19 test (wtok.com)

Ala. yard to build eTug for Crowley

Crowley Maritime Corp., Jacksonville, Fla., says it will lead the next generation of industry sustainability by building and operating eWolf, the first all-electric powered harbor tugboat that can complete a job without using an ounce of fuel. “The eWolf represents everything Crowley stands for - innovation, sustainability and performance,” company Chairman/CEO Tom Crowley said in a media release. The 82-foot tug, with 70 tons of bollard pull, advances Crowley efforts of sustainability and decarbonization, Crowley said. Over the first decade, operation of the eTug will reduce 178 tons of nitrogen oxide (NOx), 2.5 tons of diesel particulate matter, and 3,100 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) versus a conventional tug, Crowley officials said. The  eTug will replace one that consumes more than 30,000 gallons of diesel per year. The eWolf will operate out of San Diego. It is to be built by Master Boat Builders of Coden, Ala., utilizing the design and on-site construction management by Crowley Engineering Services. (Source: Work Boat 07/16/21) Coden, Ala., is south of Mobile and minutes from the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Crowley to build and operate first fully electric U.S. tug | WorkBoat

Meridian airport's temp closure

Meridian (Miss.) Regional Airport will be shut down Aug. 17-23 while workers put a new asphalt surface on the main runway - the longest public runway in Mississippi, according to Meridian Airport Authority President Tom Williams. The runway was last rehabilitated in 2000. The project is funded by the Federal Aviation Administration and Air National Guard. The FAA is contributing $6.5M; and ANG is contributing $1M. The dates were chosen because SkyWest airlines reported only 12 tickets had been sold so far for that week, which was the lowest number of tickets of all weeks under consideration, according to Williams. The ANG will have to temporarily relocate during the closure. The 186th Air Refueling Wing's mission at Key Field is providing the core aerial refueling capability for the Air Force and Air Guard. The airport will still service private aircraft and small military aircraft. (Source: Meridian Star 07/16/21) Runway upgrades planned at Meridian Regional Airport | Local News | meridianstar.com