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September 9, 2003
GovPro E-Newsletter
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Tuesday, September 9, 2003 Volume 2, Issue 35
Welcome to the GovPro Newsletter brought to you by the Penton Government Media Group. Look forward to news, resources, product and supplier information, and links relating to the government market.
If this message was sent in error or you wish to unsubscribe, see the unsubscribe information below.
Sponsored by Crown Equipment
CONTENTS
States Withstand Computer Viruses Public-Private Partnership to Forecast Weather Grants Fund Renewable Energy Resources News of The Weird
FEATURES
DE-BUGGING COMPUTERS A STATE PRIORITY
Computer worms that ate their way into state computer systems in August forced Kentucky and Maryland motorists to hold off renewing their drivers permits while Montana sportsmen and women had to wait for hunting and fishing licenses.
Meantime, technology experts at state agencies throughout the country scrambled to make sure their computers had the latest patches and anti-virus systems to thwart worms named SoBig.F and variations of Blaster worms called nachi, and Welchia that entangle themselves in computers with Microsoft Windows.
Most states said they didnt lose data and their systems didnt crash when the latest worms infected and clogged their computers last month. A U.S. Department of Homeland Security official said no more than a dozen of the states computer systems were affected during the last worm outbreak, declining to give a specific number.
Proper cyber upkeep is key, computer experts said, more so than state laws. Sixteen states passed laws in the 1990s laying out penalties for spreading computer viruses, but the laws are so new they have yet to be tested, said Janna Goodwin, a technology expert at the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Its so difficult to prosecute these cases, primarily because of jurisdictional issues, Goodwin said, noting that most computer viruses cross state lines. Its easy to put on the books, but in reality its really difficult to actually go through the process, she said. Federal not state authorities on Aug. 29 arrested and charged a Minneapolis teenager for developing and releasing a variant of the "Blaster" computer worm.
The following states have laws pertaining to computers; Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia.
NEXT GENERATION RADAR TO FORECAST WEATHER
NOAA, the National Center for Atmospheric Research, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Navy and the Federal Aviation Administration announced they have signed an agreement to develop a new weather forecast system for the research and operational forecasting communities. The new development, called the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-pronounced wharf) system is the result of a landmark cooperative effort among scientists at partnering public and private agencies.
According to NOAA, the WRF is expected to generate high-resolution (mesoscale) forecasts so detailed that they will resemble radar images. The WRF will feature a horizontal grid between 1 and 10 kilometers (0.6 to 6 miles), compared with horizontal grids in existing operational models that are in the range of 5 to 12 kilometers (3 to 7.5 miles). The higher resolution will enable scientists to simulate individual thunderstorms along with such hard-to-capture features as gust fronts and strong winds.
Users can also link WRF to other specialized computer models to gain more insight into the atmosphere. For example, a scientist will be able to couple WRF with a chemistry model to track the formation and movement of atmospheric constituents such as ozone and haze-producing aerosols. These capabilities will form the basis for future air-quality forecast models.
The WRF system will enable operational forecasting centers to streamline their prediction systems and to incorporate more scientific advances more rapidly for improved weather forecasts out to three to four days, said Louis Uccellini, director of the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Prediction. Visit: http://wwwt.ncep.noaa.gov/
CROWN EQUIPMENT
Crown Equipment designs, manufactures, distributes, services, and supports material handling products that provide customers with superior value. Electric lift trucks range from hand pallet trucks to very narrow-aisle (VNA) turret trucks. http://www.crown.com
NEWS
GRANTS TO FUND BIOMASS RESEARCH
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the selection of 19 projects that will receive $23 million for biomass research, development and demonstration projects.
The joint grant program is part of the Bush Administrations effort to increase Americas energy independence through the development of additional renewable energy resources from the agricultural and agroforestry sectors. Biomass is defined as organic matter that is available on a renewable or recurring basis.
NEWS OF THE WEIRD: Bizarre but true stories about real people. http://www.govpro.com/GPRONewsletter/Article/28299/
EVENTS
For a day of networking, focused discussion groups, educational presentations, and lunch, the National Association of Purchasing Card Professionals (NAPCP) offers the following regional meetings: --September 23, 2003 - Dallas, TX --Hosted by: Vought Aircraft Industries, Inc. --Sponsored by: American Express --October 8, 2003 - Olympia, WA --Hosted by: Washington State Department of Transportation
No registration fee applies. You need not be an NAPCP member to attend. Visit http://www.napcp.org/events for more information. To register, contact Suzie Meier at suzie_meier@napcp.org or call 952-470-0379.
The International Biometric Group (IBG) announces the eighteenth installment of its Biometric Business and Technology Teleconference series. Trevor Prout, IBG's Director of Marketing, will be leading a discussion about IBG's Comparative Biometric Testing that provides critical data for government agencies planning large-scale biometric deployments or investments.
The call will take place on Thursday, September 11 at 1:00 pm ET (10:00 am PT). There is no charge to join the call, which will last about an hour, and participants will have the opportunity to ask questions.
You can listen to the teleconference over the web: Using Windows Media: http://www.biometricgroup.com/windows_media.html Using Real Player: http://www.biometricgroup.com/real_player.html
If you wish to participate in the question and answer session, you can join the call by dialing: 877-780-2276 (from the U.S. and Canada) or 973-582-2757 (from outside the U.S. and Canada).
LINKS
ORIX Public Finance, a leading provider of innovative financing for state and local municipalities, offers flexible terms, expedient processing and time-tested expertise. Let an ORIX professional help you today. http://www.orixfin.com
Federal Signal will accelerate your response time with electronic and mechanical outdoor warning sirens, software, and the Informer tone-alert radio. http://www.federalwarningsystems.com
PPI Modular Structures Inc. is a construction company that provides modular and pre-manufactured buildings. Custom applications are our specialty! http://www.ppimod.com
OLYMPIA! The only name you need to know for your office machine requirements! Paper Shredders, Typewriters, Calculators, Paper Handling Equipment. http://www.olympia.to
As a global leader in office furniture, Haworth offers a comprehensive line of furniture and service solutions for any office. http://www.haworth.com
Dawn Enterprises, a long time GSA choice for ultra-secure trashcans, planters, benches and bollards manufactured in either concrete or stone, in the colors of your choice. http://www.trashcans.com
GEM is the zero-emission transportation solution for your fleet needs. This Low Speed Vehicle is ideal for those everyday short distance trips. http://www.gemcar.com/gsa
John Deere. Better machines, greater choices. Lower prices, fewer hassles. Our complete online catalog brings the John Deere showroom right to you. http://www.JohnDeere.com/GovSales
Newark InOne is the only electronics distributor to have a catalog-wide GSA Schedule (GS-06F-0044M) exclusively for the supply of over 150,000 electronic components and supplies. Visit http://www.teamgov.com or contact 1.800.TEAM.GOV (832.6468) for a FREE catalog or to place your next order.
SimplexGrinnell: Your OneStop* provider for integrated fire, security and communications. Serving you via the GSA Schedule. To learn more, visit: http://www.simplexgrinnell.com/gsa
Custom-designed Meyer snow plows fit exact vehicle frame and weight specifications for exceptional performance in all applications. Visit: http://www.meyerproducts.com
KI is an award-winning, international furniture producer. Products include office seating, stacking and guest chairs, tables and wall systems. http://www.KI.com
Polythane Systems and the affiliated companies sell spray polyurethane foam for roofing, walls and tanks and the coatings necessary to complete the system. http://www.polythane.com
Alamo Industrial is the world's largest manufacturer of tractor-mounted vegetation management equipment. Built Sharper to give you the edge you need! Visit http://www.alamo-industrial.com
Installed in over 100 military and government facilities around the world, Onity provides superior electronic locking systems, e-safes and energy management solutions. Visit http://www.onity.biz
Skatewave Modular Skatepark Systems is a division of Landscape Structures Inc. Skatewave was founded in March 2001 and since then has installed more than 350 parks across the United States, Canada and Southeast Asia. Visit http://www.skatewave.com
Electric Eel Mfg. produces a full range of sewer cleaning equipment for the municipal market. Pipeline inspection and location equipment also available. Visit online at http://www.electriceel.com
Rubbermaid Commercial Products: Material handling, transport, sanitary maintenance, safety, waste systems, food service products, and healthcare products. Visit http://www.specialmade.com
Government fleets - comply with EPAct and Executive Order 13149, and meet petroleum reduction goals with help from FuelMaker and NGVs. http://www.fuelmaker.com
Toro. Power, Performance and Productivity. Discover solutions for your turf maintenance challenges at http://www.toro.com/grounds. Register for government updates at
Upbeats Institutional Catalog features site furnishings/amenities including trash containers, park benches, picnic tables, ash urns, bike racks, banners and more. Shop online http://www.upbeatinc.com
C & H Distributors provide a fast, efficient way to purchase shelving, cabinets, packaging and shipping products, or office furniture. Visit: http://www.chdist.com
Issue employee badges, student ID cards, membership, or access control cards with the SP 35 card printer. This printer delivers excellent image and card quality, while optimizing ribbon usage. For more information, visit Team Marketing Co. at: http://www.teamphoto.com
Safety Storage, the first choice for custom and pre-fabricated hazardous storage buildings. http://www.safetystorage.com
You may qualify for a FREE Magazine Subscription
Complimentary subscriptions to Government Product News, a product-driven resource, and Government PROcurement, editorial targeting the public sector purchasing professional are available to those who qualify. To subscribe to Government Product News visit: http://www.submag.com/sub/gn To subscribe to Government Procurement visit: http://www.submag.com/sub/gp
Copyright 2003 Penton Media, Inc.
Welcome to the GovPro Newsletter brought to you by the Penton Government Media Group. Look forward to news, resources, product and supplier information, and links relating to the government market.
If this message was sent in error or you wish to unsubscribe, see the unsubscribe information below.
Sponsored by Crown Equipment
CONTENTS
States Withstand Computer Viruses Public-Private Partnership to Forecast Weather Grants Fund Renewable Energy Resources News of The Weird
FEATURES
DE-BUGGING COMPUTERS A STATE PRIORITY
Computer worms that ate their way into state computer systems in August forced Kentucky and Maryland motorists to hold off renewing their drivers permits while Montana sportsmen and women had to wait for hunting and fishing licenses.
Meantime, technology experts at state agencies throughout the country scrambled to make sure their computers had the latest patches and anti-virus systems to thwart worms named SoBig.F and variations of Blaster worms called nachi, and Welchia that entangle themselves in computers with Microsoft Windows.
Most states said they didnt lose data and their systems didnt crash when the latest worms infected and clogged their computers last month. A U.S. Department of Homeland Security official said no more than a dozen of the states computer systems were affected during the last worm outbreak, declining to give a specific number.
Proper cyber upkeep is key, computer experts said, more so than state laws. Sixteen states passed laws in the 1990s laying out penalties for spreading computer viruses, but the laws are so new they have yet to be tested, said Janna Goodwin, a technology expert at the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Its so difficult to prosecute these cases, primarily because of jurisdictional issues, Goodwin said, noting that most computer viruses cross state lines. Its easy to put on the books, but in reality its really difficult to actually go through the process, she said. Federal not state authorities on Aug. 29 arrested and charged a Minneapolis teenager for developing and releasing a variant of the "Blaster" computer worm.
The following states have laws pertaining to computers; Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia.
NEXT GENERATION RADAR TO FORECAST WEATHER
NOAA, the National Center for Atmospheric Research, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Navy and the Federal Aviation Administration announced they have signed an agreement to develop a new weather forecast system for the research and operational forecasting communities. The new development, called the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-pronounced wharf) system is the result of a landmark cooperative effort among scientists at partnering public and private agencies.
According to NOAA, the WRF is expected to generate high-resolution (mesoscale) forecasts so detailed that they will resemble radar images. The WRF will feature a horizontal grid between 1 and 10 kilometers (0.6 to 6 miles), compared with horizontal grids in existing operational models that are in the range of 5 to 12 kilometers (3 to 7.5 miles). The higher resolution will enable scientists to simulate individual thunderstorms along with such hard-to-capture features as gust fronts and strong winds.
Users can also link WRF to other specialized computer models to gain more insight into the atmosphere. For example, a scientist will be able to couple WRF with a chemistry model to track the formation and movement of atmospheric constituents such as ozone and haze-producing aerosols. These capabilities will form the basis for future air-quality forecast models.
The WRF system will enable operational forecasting centers to streamline their prediction systems and to incorporate more scientific advances more rapidly for improved weather forecasts out to three to four days, said Louis Uccellini, director of the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Prediction. Visit: http://wwwt.ncep.noaa.gov/
CROWN EQUIPMENT
Crown Equipment designs, manufactures, distributes, services, and supports material handling products that provide customers with superior value. Electric lift trucks range from hand pallet trucks to very narrow-aisle (VNA) turret trucks. http://www.crown.com
NEWS
GRANTS TO FUND BIOMASS RESEARCH
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the selection of 19 projects that will receive $23 million for biomass research, development and demonstration projects.
The joint grant program is part of the Bush Administrations effort to increase Americas energy independence through the development of additional renewable energy resources from the agricultural and agroforestry sectors. Biomass is defined as organic matter that is available on a renewable or recurring basis.
NEWS OF THE WEIRD: Bizarre but true stories about real people. http://www.govpro.com/GPRONewsletter/Article/28299/
EVENTS
For a day of networking, focused discussion groups, educational presentations, and lunch, the National Association of Purchasing Card Professionals (NAPCP) offers the following regional meetings: --September 23, 2003 - Dallas, TX --Hosted by: Vought Aircraft Industries, Inc. --Sponsored by: American Express --October 8, 2003 - Olympia, WA --Hosted by: Washington State Department of Transportation
No registration fee applies. You need not be an NAPCP member to attend. Visit http://www.napcp.org/events for more information. To register, contact Suzie Meier at suzie_meier@napcp.org or call 952-470-0379.
The International Biometric Group (IBG) announces the eighteenth installment of its Biometric Business and Technology Teleconference series. Trevor Prout, IBG's Director of Marketing, will be leading a discussion about IBG's Comparative Biometric Testing that provides critical data for government agencies planning large-scale biometric deployments or investments.
The call will take place on Thursday, September 11 at 1:00 pm ET (10:00 am PT). There is no charge to join the call, which will last about an hour, and participants will have the opportunity to ask questions.
You can listen to the teleconference over the web: Using Windows Media: http://www.biometricgroup.com/windows_media.html Using Real Player: http://www.biometricgroup.com/real_player.html
If you wish to participate in the question and answer session, you can join the call by dialing: 877-780-2276 (from the U.S. and Canada) or 973-582-2757 (from outside the U.S. and Canada).
LINKS
ORIX Public Finance, a leading provider of innovative financing for state and local municipalities, offers flexible terms, expedient processing and time-tested expertise. Let an ORIX professional help you today. http://www.orixfin.com
Federal Signal will accelerate your response time with electronic and mechanical outdoor warning sirens, software, and the Informer tone-alert radio. http://www.federalwarningsystems.com
PPI Modular Structures Inc. is a construction company that provides modular and pre-manufactured buildings. Custom applications are our specialty! http://www.ppimod.com
OLYMPIA! The only name you need to know for your office machine requirements! Paper Shredders, Typewriters, Calculators, Paper Handling Equipment. http://www.olympia.to
As a global leader in office furniture, Haworth offers a comprehensive line of furniture and service solutions for any office. http://www.haworth.com
Dawn Enterprises, a long time GSA choice for ultra-secure trashcans, planters, benches and bollards manufactured in either concrete or stone, in the colors of your choice. http://www.trashcans.com
GEM is the zero-emission transportation solution for your fleet needs. This Low Speed Vehicle is ideal for those everyday short distance trips. http://www.gemcar.com/gsa
John Deere. Better machines, greater choices. Lower prices, fewer hassles. Our complete online catalog brings the John Deere showroom right to you. http://www.JohnDeere.com/GovSales
Newark InOne is the only electronics distributor to have a catalog-wide GSA Schedule (GS-06F-0044M) exclusively for the supply of over 150,000 electronic components and supplies. Visit http://www.teamgov.com or contact 1.800.TEAM.GOV (832.6468) for a FREE catalog or to place your next order.
SimplexGrinnell: Your OneStop* provider for integrated fire, security and communications. Serving you via the GSA Schedule. To learn more, visit: http://www.simplexgrinnell.com/gsa
Custom-designed Meyer snow plows fit exact vehicle frame and weight specifications for exceptional performance in all applications. Visit: http://www.meyerproducts.com
KI is an award-winning, international furniture producer. Products include office seating, stacking and guest chairs, tables and wall systems. http://www.KI.com
Polythane Systems and the affiliated companies sell spray polyurethane foam for roofing, walls and tanks and the coatings necessary to complete the system. http://www.polythane.com
Alamo Industrial is the world's largest manufacturer of tractor-mounted vegetation management equipment. Built Sharper to give you the edge you need! Visit http://www.alamo-industrial.com
Installed in over 100 military and government facilities around the world, Onity provides superior electronic locking systems, e-safes and energy management solutions. Visit http://www.onity.biz
Skatewave Modular Skatepark Systems is a division of Landscape Structures Inc. Skatewave was founded in March 2001 and since then has installed more than 350 parks across the United States, Canada and Southeast Asia. Visit http://www.skatewave.com
Electric Eel Mfg. produces a full range of sewer cleaning equipment for the municipal market. Pipeline inspection and location equipment also available. Visit online at http://www.electriceel.com
Rubbermaid Commercial Products: Material handling, transport, sanitary maintenance, safety, waste systems, food service products, and healthcare products. Visit http://www.specialmade.com
Government fleets - comply with EPAct and Executive Order 13149, and meet petroleum reduction goals with help from FuelMaker and NGVs. http://www.fuelmaker.com
Toro. Power, Performance and Productivity. Discover solutions for your turf maintenance challenges at http://www.toro.com/grounds. Register for government updates at
Upbeats Institutional Catalog features site furnishings/amenities including trash containers, park benches, picnic tables, ash urns, bike racks, banners and more. Shop online http://www.upbeatinc.com
C & H Distributors provide a fast, efficient way to purchase shelving, cabinets, packaging and shipping products, or office furniture. Visit: http://www.chdist.com
Issue employee badges, student ID cards, membership, or access control cards with the SP 35 card printer. This printer delivers excellent image and card quality, while optimizing ribbon usage. For more information, visit Team Marketing Co. at: http://www.teamphoto.com
Safety Storage, the first choice for custom and pre-fabricated hazardous storage buildings. http://www.safetystorage.com
You may qualify for a FREE Magazine Subscription
Complimentary subscriptions to Government Product News, a product-driven resource, and Government PROcurement, editorial targeting the public sector purchasing professional are available to those who qualify. To subscribe to Government Product News visit: http://www.submag.com/sub/gn To subscribe to Government Procurement visit: http://www.submag.com/sub/gp
Copyright 2003 Penton Media, Inc.
