BRAC RTF - News

Invitation to Business Services Connections 2012

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:48:57 +0100

Date: 2012-02-24
Description: Feb 24, 2012 (8a - 10:20a) Dennis A. Wicker Civic Center, 1801 Nash Street Sanford, NC 27330. The purpose of the Business Services Connections event is to inform local agencies and local employers of the business services offered by Triangle South Workforce Development Board and local area JobLink Career Centers. Business Services Connections will help build partnerships between the Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Corporations, the local Workforce Development Board, non-profit and private agencies. Business Services Connections will provide an opportunity for local employers and potential employers to receive information about free and low cost business services and resources that are available in the community. Shana Overdorf, campaign manager, for �Get not out of your life� will be available to present information on how agencies and employers can be involved with increasing literacy awareness in the community.
Contact Information: Shana Overdorf,                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4671
                                  soverdorf@bracrtf.com

Request for Proposal

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:58:04 +0100

Date: 2012-01-04
Description: The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance is requesting interested consulting firms to succinctly present their approach and estimated cost for the development of a Bragg Boulevard Corridor Redevelopment Plan. This project would provide a multi-modal transportation plan to incorporate transit and other multi-modal options integrated with planned roadway improvements, planned developments, etc. toward the integration of land use and transportation along Bragg Boulevard.
Contact Information: Don Belk,                                  2550 Ravenhill Road, Suite 102
                                  Fayetteville, NC                                     (910) 808-4176
                                  (910) 436-2793
                                  dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/documents/BraggBlvdRedevelopmentRFPFinal_000.pdf

6th Annual Community Meeting

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:44:18 +0100

Date: 2011-12-12
Description: View the PowerPoint presentations shown at the Fort Bragg Regional Alliance's 6th Annual Community Meeting held on Friday, December 9th, 2011.
Fayetteville, NC (910)
Link 1: www.uncfsu.edu/cdhs/about.htm

Eliminate �Not� from Society�s Vocabulary

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 21:17:11 +0100

Date: 2011-09-20
Description: On Tuesday, September 20, 2011 the All American Gateway Workforce Collaborative launched the Get �NOT' Out of Your Life - social marketing campaign to promote literacy and continuing education to dispel negativity that holds people back.
Contact Information: Shana Overdorf, Fayetteville, NC (910) 808-4671
Link 1: www.getnotout.org
Link 2: www.yourdailyjournal.com/view/full_story/15606888/article-Fort-Bragg-regional-group-aims-to-eliminate-%E2%80%98Not%E2%80%99-from-society%E2%80%99s-vocabulary
Link 3: leecountync.communitiesinschools.org/

�E� meeting in Red Springs

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 20:56:25 +0100

Date: 2011-11-01
Description: �E' meeting in Red Springs on 11/1/2011 had 50 attendees!
Fayetteville, NC (910)

Harnet County WLPP State Certified

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 18:29:27 +0100

Date: 2011-03-30
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (March 30, 2011) - The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance (fdba: BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC-RTF)) has announced that Harnett County has received certification from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture for their Working Lands Protection Plan (WLPP). The Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center at Mount Olive College and officials with the FBRA/BRAC-RTF Working Lands Protection Program are the principal researchers and authored the plans. "The region's working lands will help maintain the operational readiness of Fort Bragg and reduce the problems posed by development and other land uses that are incompatible with the Army's training and operational objectives", said Greg Taylor, Executive Director of the Fort Bragg Regional Alliance. The plan outlines the importance of agriculture and identifies ways to support that industry. The plan also identifies ways to reduce development that may be considered incompatible with the mission of Fort Bragg through preservation of working farms and forests. Certification qualifies Harnett County and organizations within the county for priority status when pursuing funding from the state trust funds such as the N.C. Clean Water Management Trust Fund, N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund, and the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund, for working land preservation projects. This priority status can result in reduced match requirements for some of these grants. In June 2008, the BRAC-RTF was awarded a $400,000 grant from the North Carolina Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund on behalf of its 11 member counties to establish WLPPs as part of a regional Working Lands Protection strategy. These plans are tailored to the specific needs and desires of each county in the region and will depend upon the adoption of Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) ordinances in each county. VAD programs encourage but do not require the preservation of farmland.
Contact Information: Don Belk, 910-808-4176
dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/documents/Harnettpdfmay102010.pdf
Link 2: www.bracrtf.com

New RFP & SOQ Available

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:36:38 +0100

Date: 2011-03-25
Description: The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance has released an RFP for a Regional Water-Supply Plan and a SOQ for School Infrastructure & Capital Needs Assessment. Proposals for both proejcts are due 4 April 2011 by 5pm Eastern. The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance is requesting interested consulting firms to present their approach for preparing a coordinated Sub-regional Water Supply Plan to facilitate the implementation of recommendations from the Comprehensive Regional Growth Plan for the Fort Bragg Region (CRGP). Additionally, the Alliance is requesting statements of qualification (SOQ) from interested architecture and engineering firms to conduct a coordinated, comprehensive School Infrastructure and Capital Needs Assessment (CNA) for Hoke County, North Carolina. The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance (formerly known as the BRAC Regional Task Force) is a partnership of local governments, incorporated as a non-profit 501(c)(6), consisting of the eleven counties and 74 municipalities impacted by the growth at Fort Bragg. This partnership is planning and preparing for the significant physical and human infrastructure impact on our communities due to the changes that will occur from the BRAC 2005 actions, as well as Grow the Army, Army Modular Forces, and other DoD realignment actions. For more information on the Regional Alliance, please visit our website at http://www.bracrtf.com. Questions regarding the Alliance may be addressed to Renee Siemiet at rsiemiet@bracrtf.com or 910-808-4670. Questions regarding the RFP or SOQ should be addressed to Don Belk, Regional Planner, at dbelk@bracrtf.com or 910-808-4176.
Contact Information: Don Belk, 910-808-4176
dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/active_proposals.php
Link 2: www.bracrtf.com

New Workforce Website

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:34:03 +0100

Date: 2011-03-29
Description: The four Workforce Development Boards (WDB) serving the 11-county BRAC growth region, together with the Fort Bragg Regional Alliance (f/d/b/a BRAC Regional Task Force), launched a brand new workforce and economic development website this week. The site - www.allamericangateway.com - is designed to help align, integrate, and publicize education, training, workforce and economic development across the four local workforce service areas: Lumber River ( Bladen, Hoke, Robeson, Scotland); Triangle South (Chatham, Lee, Harnett, Sampson); Pee Dee (Montgomery, Moore, Richmond); and Cumberland. Over the next several years, the Fort Bragg environs will see substantial gains of direct military and civilian personnel as the US Army moves its Forces Command (FORSCOM) and Reserve Command (USARC) from Fort McPherson, GA to Fort Bragg. Workforce planning and preparation is required to deal with the growth challenges (including more high-pay defense, homeland security, and other related jobs and skill needs) and to maximize the benefits to the region and state. This new website is just one product of an on-going three-year collaborative effort by the five organizations through a North Carolina Department of Commerce Division of Workforce Development grant to encourage such regional partnerships. Other regional initiatives have included holding the first ever four-way Workforce Board meeting in Fayetteville, sponsoring a regional Literacy Summit in Lumberton, virtually connecting and equipping the four Board meeting rooms with video-conferencing capabilities, and branding the 11-county area as the "All American Gateway Workforce Region". According to Linda Parker, Director of the Pee Dee WDB, "Our regional collaboration offers a seamless and uniform workforce support system that can meet the needs of any job-seekers and employers in the 11-counties or world. We want to prepare and keep a skilled labor force for business expansion and retention." Dana Powell, Director of the Lumber River WDB, adds that "The collaboration of our organizations offers the best assets available throughout the region and larger All American Defense Corridor. Our new regional portal site - allamericangateway.com - reflects this approach with a central entry to workforce and related resources." The multi-page website provides information about and links to resources within the All American Gateway Workforce Region such as JobLink Career Centers, economic clusters and occupational sectors, regional collaboration accomplishments, other partners and assets, plus PipelineNC.com and the NC Employment Security Commission's Job Connector tool. Triangle South WDB Director Cindy Casler says: "A strong workforce is the key factor in any economic development strategy and we want the Fort Bragg Region to be known for the quality of its labor force and the training opportunities that exist, such as through our community and 4-year colleges." "The ultimate goal of the GatewayWorks regional consortium and website is to leverage all of our resources to create a best-in-class talent development system and workforce to meet current and future needs in the Fort Bragg region", says Tim Moore, Workforce and Education Program Director for the FBRA. The regional partnership is also planning for the launch of a Lifelong Learning and Literacy campaign in September to coincide with National Literacy Month. "Our GatewayWorks website will soon include a comprehensive and interactive regional Literacy & Lifelong Learning Resources Guide providing information and links to pre-k to college level education programs and providers", says Geneva Mixon, Cumberland County WDB Director. About Fort Bragg Regional Alliance: The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance -f/d/b/a BRAC Regional Task Force- is a partnership of local governments, incorporated as a non-profit 501(c) (6), consisting of the eleven counties and 74 municipalities impacted by the growth at Fort Bragg. This partnership is planning and preparing for the significant physical and human infrastructure impact on our communities due to the changes that will occur from the BRAC 2005 actions, as well as Grow the Army, Army Modular Forces, and other DoD realignment actions. For more information on the Regional Alliance, please visit our website at http://www.bracrtf.com. Questions regarding the Alliance's Workforce Development and Education programs may be addressed to Tim Moore at either tmoore@bracrtf.com or 910-808-4179. About Workforce Development Boards: BRAC region workforce development programs are initiated and administered on the local level by Workforce Development Boards. This comprehensive workforce investment system brings together the resources that individuals, employersand workforce professionals need to prosper in the new global economy, resulting in increased employment, higher earnings, strong educational and occupational skills, and more competitive businesses.
Contact Information: Tim Moore, 910-808-4179
tmoore@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.allamericangateway.com/
Link 2: www.bracrtf.com

Regional Alliance Releases Housing Study

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:31:37 +0100

Date: 2011-03-25
Description: The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance (formerly known as the BRAC Regional Task Force) has released a Regional Housing Market Study. The study was conducted by The Littlejohn Group (Charlotte, NC) to assess the adequacy of the region's housing supply to serve a growing population due to the relocation of U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) and U.S. Army Reserve Command (USARC). The report addresses both rental and for sale properties. The Fort Bragg Regional Alliance is a partnership of local governments, incorporated as a non-profit 501(c) (6), consisting of the eleven counties and 74 municipalities impacted by the growth at Fort Bragg. This partnership is planning and preparing for the significant impact on our communities due to the changes that will occur from the BRAC 2005 actions, as well as Grow the Army, Army Modular Forces, and other DoD realignment actions. Over the next several years, Fort Bragg will see substantial gains of direct military and civilian personnel as the Army moves U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) and the U.S. Army Reserve Command (USARC) from Fort McPherson, GA to Fort Bragg. Planning and preparation is required deal with the growth challenges and to maximize the benefits to our state and region. In 2008, the BRAC Regional Task Force (now known as the Fort Bragg Regional Alliance) in partnership with the Department of Defense's Office of Economic Adjustment (OEA) conducted a Comprehensive Regional Growth Plan (CRGP) to project the probable impact of defense-related initiatives on many areas of community living, including workforce and higher education, K-12 education, housing, transportation, infrastructure, health care, social services, hospitality, and cultural activities. The recommendations of the CRGP have provided the basis for continued research in several areas, including this Regional Housing Study.
Contact Information: Don Belk, (910) 808-4176
dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/documents/RegionalHousingMarketStudyFINAL.pdf

Name Change

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:27:39 +0100

Date: 2011-03-25
Description: The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC-RTF) has formally changed its name to the Fort Bragg Regional Alliance (FBRA). The name change, approved by the Board of Directors in December 2010, is a part of an ongoing effort to ensure that the organization's name reflects the mission of the organization and its role within the counties surrounding Fort Bragg. "Our Board of Directors unanimously felt that this new name more accurately captured the nature of our regional partnership and the special relationship we share with our military neighbors" stated Greg Taylor, Executive Director. Contact information (including e-mail and phone) for the Regional Alliance staff will remain unchanged and the office will still be located at 2550 Ravenhill Drive in Fayetteville, NC. For additional information on the Fort Bragg Regional Alliance, please visit our website at http://www.bracrtf.com Additionally, slides from the Fort Bragg Regional Alliance/BRAC-RTF Board of Directors Meeting, held yesterday (24 March) in Spring Lake, NC are now available online at http://www.bracrtf.com/presentations.php Presentations included updates from the Regional Alliance and Ms. Ronna Garrett from U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM). Questions regarding Ms. Garrett's presentation may be directed to FORSCOM PAO at 404-464-5668. Questions regarding the Fort Bragg Regional Alliance programs may be directed to Renee Siemiet at rsiemiet@bracrtf.com or 910-808-4670.
Contact Information: Renee Siemiet, (910)
rsiemiet@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

BRAC-RTF Releases New RFP

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 14:58:09 +0100

Date: 2011-03-04
Description: The BRAC-RTF has released a new RFP: Multimodal Corridor Mobility Plan. Active proposals are available via the link below.
Contact Information: Don Belk, Regional Planner
(910) 808-4176
dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/active_proposals.php

New FORSCOM/USARC Photos

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 14:53:05 +0100

Date: 2011-03-06
Description: An aerial perspective of the new FORSCOM/USARC Combined Headquarters Construction Project at Fort Bragg, N.C., March 2, 2011. The complex is 91 percent complete, and on schedule for a 21 June turnover to the Army! U.S. Army photo by Jim Hinnant, FORSCOM Public Affairs
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/photo_gallery.php
Link 2: go.usa.gov/4ra

BRAC-RTF Releases RFPs

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 19:43:17 +0100

Date: 2011-02-17
Description: The BRAC-RTF has released two RFPs. The first, pertains to the Development of a Marketing Campaign/Recruitment Strategy, and Action Plan to Attract Healthcare Providers to the Fort Bragg Region. The second, is the Development of an Infrastructure Integration Plan. Active proposals are available via the link below.
Contact Information: Don Belk, Fayetteville, NC (910) 808-4176
dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/active_proposals.php

Robeson County Receive State Certification for Working Lands Program

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 19:50:38 +0100

Date: 2011-01-04
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (January 4, 2011) - The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC-RTF) announced today that Robeson County has received certification from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture for their Working Lands Protection Plan (WLPP). The Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center at Mount Olive College and officials with the BRAC-RTF Working Lands Protection Program are the principal researchers and authored the plans. "The region's working lands will help maintain the operational readiness of Fort Bragg and reduce the problems posed by development and other land uses that are incompatible with the Army's training and operational objectives", said Greg Taylor, Executive Director of the BRAC-RTF. The plan outlines the importance of agriculture and identifies ways to support that industry. The plan also identifies ways to reduce development that may be considered incompatible with the mission of Fort Bragg through preservation of working farms and forests. Certification qualifies Robeson County and organizations within the county for priority status when pursuing funding from the state trust funds such as the N.C. Clean Water Management Trust Fund, N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund, and the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund, for working land preservation projects. This priority status can result in reduced match requirements for some of these grants. In June 2008, the BRAC-RTF was awarded a $400,000 grant from the North Carolina Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund on behalf of its 11 member counties to establish WLPPs as part of a regional Working Lands Protection strategy. These plans are tailored to the specific needs and desires of each county in the region and will depend upon the adoption of Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) ordinances in each county. VAD programs encourage but do not require the preservation of farmland.
Contact Information: Don Belk,                                  2550 Ravenhill Drive, Suite 102
                                  Fayetteville, NC                                     910-808-4176
                                  dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/documents/RobesonFormattedpdfdec172010.pdf
Link 2: www.bracrtf.com

Lee County Receives State Certification for Working Lands Program

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 20:00:00 +0100

Date: 2010-10-15
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (October 15, 2010) - The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC-RTF) announced today that Lee County has received certification from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture for its Working Lands Protection Plan (WLPP). The Lee County Board of Commissioners endorsed the plan which was presented September 20, 2010. The Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center at Mount Olive College and officials with the BRAC-RTF Working Lands Protection Program are the principal researchers and authored the Lee County plan. "The region's working lands will help maintain the operational readiness of Fort Bragg and reduce the problems posed by development and other land uses that are incompatible with the Army's training and operational objectives", said Greg Taylor, Executive Director of the BRAC-RTF. The plan outlines the importance of agriculture in the county and identifies ways to support that industry. The plan also identifies ways to reduce development that may be considered incompatible with the mission of Fort Bragg through preservation of working farms and forests. Certification qualifies Lee County (and organizations in Lee County) for priority status when pursuing funding from the state trust funds such as the N.C. Clean Water Management Trust Fund, N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund, and the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund, for working land preservation projects. This priority status can result in reduced match requirements for some of these grants. In June 2008, the BRAC-RTF was awarded a $400,000 grant from the North Carolina Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund on behalf of its 11 member counties to establish WLPPs as part of a regional Working Lands Protection strategy. These plans are tailored to the specific needs and desires of each county in the region and will depend upon the adoption of Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) ordinances in each county. VAD programs encourage but do not require the preservation of farmland. For more information on the BRAC-RTF and Regional Planning initiatives, please visit www.bracrtf.com or call Don Belk, Regional Planner, at 910-808-4176 or dbelk@bracrtf.com.
Contact Information: Don Belk, Fayetteville, NC (910) 808-4176
dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

Cumberland and Scotland Counties Receive State Certification for Working Lands Program

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 19:57:32 +0100

Date: 2010-11-11
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (November 10, 2010) - The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC-RTF) announced today that Cumberland and Scotland Counties have received certification from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture for their Working Lands Protection Plans (WLPP). The Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center at Mount Olive College and officials with the BRAC-RTF Working Lands Protection Program are the principal researchers and authored the plans. "The region's working lands will help maintain the operational readiness of Fort Bragg and reduce the problems posed by development and other land uses that are incompatible with the Army's training and operational objectives", said Greg Taylor, Executive Director of the BRAC-RTF. The plan outlines the importance of agriculture and identifies ways to support that industry. The plan also identifies ways to reduce development that may be considered incompatible with the mission of Fort Bragg through preservation of working farms and forests. Certification qualifies both counties (and organizations within the counties) for priority status when pursuing funding from the state trust funds such as the N.C. Clean Water Management Trust Fund, N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund, and the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund, for working land preservation projects. This priority status can result in reduced match requirements for some of these grants. In June 2008, the BRAC-RTF was awarded a $400,000 grant from the North Carolina Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund on behalf of its 11 member counties to establish WLPPs as part of a regional Working Lands Protection strategy. These plans are tailored to the specific needs and desires of each county in the region and will depend upon the adoption of Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) ordinances in each county. VAD programs encourage but do not require the preservation of farmland. For more information on the BRAC-RTF and Regional Planning initiatives, please visit www.bracrtf.com or call Don Belk, Regional Planner, at 910-808-4176 or dbelk@bracrtf.com.
Contact Information: Don Belk, Fayetteville, NC (910) 808-4176
dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

BRAC RTF Convenes Regional Planning Meeting on June 23

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:00:15 +0100

Date: 2010-06-09
Description: The BRAC Regional Task Force will convene its partners, stakeholders, and other interested parties and citizens to discuss a regional proposal submittal for a federal Sustainable Communities Planning Grant. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on June 23 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic Center, located at 1801 Nash Street in Sanford (www.dawcc.com). The BRAC RTF intends to submit a proposal to the Sustainable Communities Program and coordinate a multi-jurisdictional, cross-disciplinary submittal that builds upon the region's accomplishments in response to BRAC growth. The purpose of the meeting is to develop a framework and establish a steering committee for proposal development. The new, federal Sustainable Communities Partnership, consisting of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Department of Transportation (DOT) will soon release a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for the Sustainable Communities Program Planning Grant. The Partnership, through HUD, has $100 million available for the development of regional sustainable development plans. �Given our work-to-date in workforce development, education, and regional planning, we believe we can present a compelling proposal to fund a plan for the Fort Bragg Region. This is an exciting opportunity to build upon our accomplishments to date, and to obtain funding to take the planning priorities of our counties, municipalities, and citizenry to the next level� said Donald Belk, BRAC RTF Regional Planner. All BRAC RTF member counties, partners, regional stakeholders, and interested citizens are invited to attend. Because space is limited, everyone interested in attending should RSVP by 5 p.m. June 16 at www.bracrtf.com. For more information, please contact Donald Belk at dbelk@bracrtf.com or (910) 808-4176. See link below to register!
Contact Information: Don Belk, Fayetteville, NC (910) 808-4176
dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/meeting.php
Link 2: www.dawcc.com
Link 3: www.bracrtf.com/documents/June232010Presentation.pdf

BRAC Region Teachers Selected for Kenan Fellows Program

Mon, 10 May 2010 20:00:32 +0100

Date: 2010-05-04
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (MAY 4, 2010) � The BRAC Regional Task Force today announced the Class of 2012 Kenan Fellows for the 11-county BRAC region. Twelve outstanding public school teachers will partner with leading researchers in the region to develop new curricula for schools across the state through teacher fellowships established by a $1.5 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to the Kenan Fellows Program. �This year, twelve master teachers will have an opportunity to go beyond the classroom and work with a scientist on a research project in a STEM field of study,� said John Harbison, interim director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. �Their experiences will be enriched through collaboration with a mentor, interaction with other Kenan Fellows and the opportunity to train teachers in their home schools on STEM subject matter.� The BRAC RTF and the Kenan Fellows Program for Curriculum and Leadership Development established a community partnership over a year ago to bring this exceptional program for master teachers to the region. The Class of 2012 Kenan Fellows from the BRAC Region are: Carrie Lynn Brewington, Hoke County High School, Hoke County Schools Dupont: Fayetteville Works; Mentor: Paul Chavis, DuPont Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Joey Gaddy, West Montgomery High School, Montgomery County Schools Scientific Advancement of Agriculture - Sandhills Research Station; Mentor: Jeff Chandler, Sandhills Research Station Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Pam Hedgepeth, Scotland High School of Health Sciences, Scotland County Schools Biotechnology: Agriculture, Bees and Fermentation; Mentor: Dr. Len Holmes, Biotechnology Business and Training Center, UNC-Pembroke Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Jennifer Jones, Pine Forest High School, Cumberland County Schools Microbeam and I3D; Mentor: Dr. Steven Singletary, Fayetteville State University Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Sandre Lane, Carver Middle School, Scotland County Schools I3D Mentor: Louis McIntyre, Robeson Community College Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Keenan Locklear, Robeson Early College High School Robeson County Schools Understanding Biofuels, Mentor: Dr. Siva Mandjiny, UNC-Pembroke Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Fred Morris, Richmond Senior High School, Richmond County Schools I3D Mentor: Johnnie Simpson, Richmond Community College Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Stefanie Phillips, North Moore High School, Moore County Schools DNA Explorations with Forensic Science; Mentor: Dr. Khalid Lodhi, Fayetteville State University Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Pam Roberts, West Bladen High School, Bladen County Schools D'Vine Foods and Lumil Vineyard; Mentor: Alvin Shepherd, D'Vine Foods Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Constance Russell, Massey Hill Classical High School, Cumberland County Schools; Creating Antimicrobial Agents Mentor: Dr. Sherrice Allen, Fayetteville State University Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Talia Swiney, Ellerbe Middle School, Richmond County Schools FirstHealth of the Carolinas, Mentors: Dr. George Bussey, Dave Dillehunt, Stuart Voelpel, FirstHealth of the Carolinas Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant Helen Walker, Harnett Central High School, Harnett County Schools Aligning Algebra with I3D Technology; Mentor: Jenny Washington, Fayetteville State University Sponsor: National Science Foundation Noyce II Grant
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O, Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.kenanfellows.org

BRAC Region Buildings and Sites Now Online

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 14:22:32 +0100

Date: 2010-04-28
Description: BRAC Region Buildings and Sites Feature Now Online FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Renee Lane, Communications Outreach, BRAC RTF, 910-808-4202, rlane@bracrtf.com FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (APRIL 28, 2010) � The BRAC Regional Task Force has unveiled a customized, searchable Web page where interested business developers, military contractors and others may research available industrial buildings and sites in the 11-county BRAC region. �The North Carolina Department of Commerce worked closely with our regional economic developers to create a customized version of the state's buildings and sites database,� said John Harbison, interim executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. Included in this database are manufacturing, warehouse, office and specialty-type buildings available in Bladen, Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Moore, Richmond, Robeson, Sampson, and Scotland counties. The site has a mapping tool that will give the location and building site and include street view if available in Google maps. Custom reports for more specific data such as demographics and ring studies can be generated for each county. �The region is attractive to defense companies, businesses that support our military installations and industry with military ties to the state. The new BRAC Region Buildings and Sites Web page offers these prospects an easy and convenient way to search for a facility or land,� said Harbison. The BRAC Region Buildings and Sites link is available on the BRAC RTF home page: www.bracrtf.com. About the BRAC Regional Task Force: The BRAC RTF is a partnership of governments working with the 11 counties and 73 municipalities surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope AFB. Our mission is to coordinate the planning and identify community impacts as U.S. Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command move to Fort Bragg by 2011.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/commerce.php

Defense Business Association Elects Board, Changes Name

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:08:12 +0100

Date: 2010-04-12
Description: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (APRIL 12, 2010) -- The All American Defense Business Association held its monthly board meeting on Thursday, April 8. The group held board elections and also voted for a name change. The board elected Steven Moore to serve as Chairman for a one-year term. Moore owns Moore Exposure, a promotional products business located in Fayetteville. Mark Phelan, who is an associate with Booz Allen Hamilton, was elected vice chairman. Dottie Womack, president and CEO of Saab Barracuda in Lillington was elected Secretary; and Shanon Madrid, senior vice president, military segment manager, First Citizens Bank Fort Bragg/Pope, was elected Treasurer. Joy Thrash was elected Executive Director. She has served as interim director of the association since last May. In other actions, the board voted to change the name of the organization to the North Carolina Defense Business Association. �We serve over 200 members from across the state representing defense contractors, private business, chambers and others who are interested in supporting North Carolina's defense sector and military installations,� said Joy Thrash, executive director. �Although the Association is based in Fayetteville, interest has grown statewide and beyond,� said Thrash. In recent months the association has held numerous contracting workshops, networking socials and general membership meetings. In coming months, general membership events include: a luncheon on June 29 with keynote speaker General Ann Dunwoody, Commanding General, U.S. Army Materiel Command; and, a breakfast on July 21 with keynote speaker Lt. General Jack Stultz, Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve Command. About the N.C. Defense Business Association: The N.C. Defense Business Association provides information for Department of Defense contractors to enhance contracting capabilities, connects contractors and businesses with resources to improve business potential, and offers networking opportunities to increase business contacts and build relationships. The Association is based in Fayetteville, N.C. www.aadba.com
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications Outreach Director
                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.aadba.com

BRAC Region Entrepreneur Initiative Held at FTCC

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 15:18:58 +0100

Date: 2010-04-08
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (APRIL 8, 2010) � Over 70 business and community leaders from the 11-county BRAC region attended a full day workshop to form and assist teams to develop local plans for using entrepreneurship as an economic, workforce, job, and community development strategy. The Energizing Entrepreneurial Initiative for the BRAC region is being jointly sponsored by the BRAC Regional Task Force and the N.C. Rural Center. The workshop, held on March 31 at Fayetteville Tech, provided an understanding of entrepreneurs at various stages, what they need, and proven strategies to build a strong entrepreneurial climate. �Entrepreneurship and small business development and support are critical pieces of the regional economic development transformation resulting from the relocation of U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command to Fort Bragg from Fort McPherson, Ga., next year,� said John Harbison, interim director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. Each county represented at the workshop formed a team of community and business leaders consisting of those involved in the local chamber, public school, economic development, workforce development, college, non-profit community- and faith-based organizations, and local elected government, among others. �Representation from each county team had several key leaders who could affect change and implement the local entrepreneurial plan they developed together during the workshop,� said Greg Taylor, chairman of the BRAC RTF board of directors, who attended the session representing both Bladen County and Fayetteville State University. The N.C. Rural Center will interact with each of the county teams as they develop specific entrepreneurial plans. The teams will complete small collaborative projects that engage and support local entrepreneurs. The entire group will reconvene in June to learn from each other's progress. �An expected outcome is to identify a regional team of entrepreneurship supporters that will continue to meet regularly and hopefully become an expanded footprint of the Southeastern Entrepreneurial Alliance which includes four of the eleven BRAC-impacted counties,� said Harbison. About the BRAC Regional Task Force: The BRAC RTF is a partnership of governments working with the 11 counties and 73 municipalities surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope AFB. Our mission is to coordinate the planning and identify community impacts as U.S. Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command move to Fort Bragg by 2011. About the N.C. Rural Economic Development Center: The N.C. Rural Economic Development Center is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to develop sound economic strategies that improve the quality of life in rural North Carolina, with a special focus on individuals with low to moderate incomes and communities with limited resources. The center operates a multifaceted program that includes conducting research into rural issues; testing promising rural development strategies; advocating for policy and program innovations; and building the productive capacity of rural leaders, entrepreneurs and community organizations.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications and Community Outreach Director
                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28303
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com

Dordal Named Executive Director of Innovation Alliance

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:50:51 +0100

Date: 2010-03-31
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (MARCH 31, 2010) � Paul Dordal has been named Executive Director of P3I, a newly-formed public private partnership for innovation based in Fayetteville. The partners consist of the BRAC Regional Task Force, Fayetteville Technical Community College and NavTech, LLC, a defense and knowledge transfer organization located in Enterprise, Ala. As executive director, Dordal will oversee the production of innovative technologies and processes that will enhance educational initiatives, business enterprises, and government functions related to emergency response and critical infrastructure protection. �P3I will leverage the strengths and investments of the BRAC RTF, FTCC and NAVTECH to apply advanced visualization and other innovative technologies and processes to enhance innovation in our schools; create jobs and connect business and industry; and support government agencies,� said Dordal. The BRAC RTF Board of Directors named John Harbison as Interim Executive Director. He will oversee all staff and programs underway at the BRAC RTF. About the BRAC RTF: The BRAC RTF is a partnership of governments working with the 11 counties and 73 municipalities surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope AFB. Our mission is to coordinate the planning and identify community impacts as U.S. Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command move to Fort Bragg by 2011.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications and Outreach Director
                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com

Hoke County Receives State Certification for Working Lands Plan

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 18:52:44 +0100

Date: 2010-03-18
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (March 18, 2010) � The BRAC Regional Task Force today announced that Hoke County has received certification from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture for its Working Lands Protection Plan. The Hoke County Board of Commissioners endorsed the plan which was presented in January by Keith Walters, Cooperative Extension Director. The Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center at Mount Olive College is the principal researcher for the Working Lands Protection Program and authored the Hoke County plan. �The region's working lands will help maintain the operational readiness of Fort Bragg and reduce the problems posed by development and other land uses that are incompatible with the Army's training and operational objectives,� said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC RTF. The plan outlines the importance of agriculture in the county and identifies what can be done to keep agriculture the number one industry in Hoke County. The plan also works to identify ways to reduce incompatible development onto Fort Bragg through preservation of working farms and forests. Certification places Hoke County in priority status for funding from the state trust funds such as the N.C. Clean Water Management Trust Fund, N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund, and the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund, for working land preservation projects. In June 2008, the BRAC RTF was awarded a $400,000 grant from the North Carolina Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund to establish a regional Working Lands Protection strategy in the 11-county BRAC region. These plans will be tailored to the specific needs and desires of each county in the region and will depend upon the adoption of Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) ordinances in each county. VAD programs encourage the preservation of farmland.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications Outreach Coordinator
                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

BRAC RTF Now Accepting Proposals for Sustainable Growth Strategy

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:50:36 +0100

Date: 2010-03-17
Description: BRAC RTF Now Accepting Proposals for Sustainable Growth Strategy The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to facilitate the implementation of recommendations from the Comprehensive Regional Growth Plan (CRGP). This request contains the implementation project under the Land Planning section (see CRGP, Chapter 10) designated as RP-1: Develop a coordinated, regional growth management strategy. The strategy will build upon previous efforts of Fort Bragg and surrounding communities to preserve the mission operability of the installation. It will encompass a range of sustainable development 'best practices', using the Land Use Suitability Model developed by Sustainable Sandhills as a conceptual basis. Additional information and copies of the Requests for Proposals (RFP) are available on our Web site: www.bracrtf.com. Click on 'Active Proposals'. Proposals are due by 3 p.m., Friday, April 16, 2010.
Contact Information: Don Belk, Fayetteville, NC (910) 808-4176
dbelk@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

Gov. Perdue Appoints Paul Dordal to North Carolina Advisory Commission on Military Affairs

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:49:26 +0100

Date: 2010-02-17
Description: STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR 20301 MAIL SERVICE CENTER � RALEIGH, NC 27699-0301 February 17, 2010 Contact: Chrissy Pearson Office: (919) 733-5612 Gov. Perdue Appoints Dordal to the North Carolina Advisory on Military Affairs Commission RALEIGH � Gov. Bev Perdue has appointed Paul R. Dordal of Fayetteville to the North Carolina Advisory Commission on Military Affairs. Dordal is Executive Director of BRAC Regional Task Force. He is a member of the board of directors for the Association of Defense Communities, president of the Pope Chapter of the Air Force Association, and member of Disabled American Veterans and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He served twenty-nine years in the U.S. Air Force. He is a retired brigadier general and served 3,700 flying hours as a command pilot of F-16, A-10, and C-130 aircraft. His military decorations include Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, and Joint Service Commendation Medal. He received a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy, and master's degree in information systems from Golden Gate University. The Military Affairs Commission advises the Governor and the secretary of the N. C. Department of Commerce on ways to strengthen the state's relationship with the military. The commission strives to protect military installations from downsizing and develops a strategic plan to provide initiatives to support long-term viability and prosperity in the military. The commission has 30 members, each serving a two-year term. The governor appoints 15 members.
Fayetteville, NC (910)

PipelineNC.com Now Online

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:32:15 +0100

Date: 2010-01-19
Description: The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) has launched PipelineNC.com, an education and workforce Internet platform for job seekers and employers in the Fort Bragg region. PipelineNC.com aligns and integrates the area's labor supply, education, employment and training capabilities, and emerging employer occupational demands. The BRAC RTF was awarded a U.S. Department of Labor Workforce Demonstration Program Grant in 2007 to develop transformational initiatives to facilitate employment and economic growth for the region as a result of significant impacts resulting from the projected growth at Fort Bragg. PipelineNC.com represents the completion of a major component of the DOL grant. With thousands of people displaced from the workforce in the 11 counties surrounding Fort Bragg, the BRAC RTF developed PipelineNC.com to meet the region's employment growth needs of the future. An estimated 15,000 jobs will be created by 2013 as a result of the U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command moves next year from Fort McPherson, Ga., to Fort Bragg, according to the BRAC RTF Comprehensive Regional Growth Plan. "PipelineNC.com goes beyond what we initially wanted to deliver to the 11 counties in the way of workforce development and employment," said Paul Dordal, BRAC RTF executive director. Futures, Inc. located in Durham, was awarded the contract to develop PipelineNC.com. "From our research, there is no other employment platform that provides the functionality and depth of resources for the job seeker or employer," said Dordal. PipelineNC brings a wealth of opportunities to job seekers and students who are searching for employment, or want to learn more about in-demand careers and educational resources. Employers benefit from superior matching technology and an automated recruiting process that will identify the best candidates for the job. Employers can post jobs for free or purchase a number of options including the ability to send digital postcards, or sponsor an industry-specific page. "These features will bring employers different levels of involvement within PipelineNC and throughout the candidate search process," said Dordal. PipelineNC.com allows job seekers and students to conduct interest assessments, define career paths, research community college and university program offerings in the region and search for employment. Day-in-the-life videos, community pages, forums, and media galleries can prepare someone to pursue a new vocation, a career change, training or certification. Fayetteville Technical Community College is the first regional institution to go live on PipelineNC.com with a fully integrated curriculum listing by subject area and an educational plan by semester. The community college has launched a campaign encouraging students to use PipelineNC as a career development and employment tool, especially for students graduating this year. Information from the remaining seven community colleges and the five four-year colleges and universities in the region will be added to the platform in the coming months. PipelineNC.com will also be used at Fort Bragg's Army and Career Alumni Program for soldiers exiting the military. "Keeping these very talented and motivated individuals in meaningful civilian careers here in the region is a win for the soldiers and their families and a win for our local communities," said Dordal.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications and Outreach
                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.pipelinenc.com

Air Transportation Survey Deadline JAN 8

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 16:20:30 +0100

Date: 2010-01-05
Description: The BRAC Regional Task Force encourages you to take the Air Transportation survey on or before January 8. The survey prepared by InterVistas Consulting Group will determine the feasibility for direct air service from Fayetteville Regional Airport to Washington, D.C. There are two surveys -- one for business and another for personal travel. Surveys are posted at www.bracrtf.com and http://flyfay.ci.fayetteville.nc.us. Each survey can only be taken once per computer station. Please encourage those who travel in and out of our regional airports in Fayetteville, Raleigh, Charlotte, and elsewhere to take one or both of the surveys by Friday. Enhanced air passenger service from Fayetteville will be needed to meet the increased demand associated with military-related growth in the Fort Bragg region in the next two years.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com

Fort Bragg Region Air Transportation Survey Underway

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:53:00 +0100

Date: 2009-12-09
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (Dec. 9, 2009) - The BRAC Regional Task Force and the Fayetteville Regional Airport today announced that the Fort Bragg Region Air Transportation Survey to measure business and personal travel from the region to Washington D.C. is now underway. The survey prepared by InterVistas Consulting Group will determine the feasibility for direct air service from Fayetteville Regional Airport to Washington, D.C. There are two surveys -- one for business and another for personal travel. Both will be posted at http://flyfay.ci.fayetteville.nc.us/ and www.bracrtf.com until January 8, 2010. The BRAC Regional Task Force and the Fayetteville Regional Airport have worked together in recent months to award the airport survey project to InterVistas, a Washington, DC-based consulting firm with a specialty in transportation planning. "The travel survey resulted from an action item in the BRAC RTF Comprehensive Regional Growth Plan that indicated a need to obtain clear, well-documented, and detailed data on all facets of air travel related to base realignment, and travel needs in the region to include the feasibility of a direct flight to Washington D.C.," said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command are responsible for almost 1,600 flights annually from Atlanta to Washington, D.C. In addition to routine travel, FORSCOM also sponsors approximately 45 conferences per year which require air travel on the part of attendees. An average of 100 people attend each of these conferences, which can last two to three days each. This poses a challenge for the planning of conferences and workshops held at Fort Bragg. "In addition to daily travel, these conferences will create near weekly spikes in demand for seats to Fayetteville and corresponding spikes in demand for seats leaving Fayetteville a few days later," said Brad Whited, director of the Fayetteville Regional Airport. Enhanced air passenger service from Fayetteville will be needed to meet the increased demand associated with military-related growth in the Fort Bragg region in the next two years. About the BRAC Regional Task Force: The BRAC RTF is a partnership of governments working with the 11 counties and 73 municipalities surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope AFB. Our mission is to coordinate the planning and identify community impacts as U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command move to Fort Bragg by 2011. About Fayetteville Regional Airport: The Fayetteville Regional Airport serves a 12-county area in the Sandhills of southern North Carolina, along the I-95 corridor. Fayetteville Regional Airport is serviced by two main airlines: US Airways Express, with daily service to its Charlotte, NC hub and ASA, the Delta Connection, with daily service to its Atlanta hub.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications and Outreach
                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com
Link 2: flyfay.ci.fayetteville.nc.us/

BRAC RTF Board Names Tony Chavonne Board Chairman

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:17:23 +0100

Date: 2009-10-29
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, NC (OCT 29, 2009) � The BRAC Regional Task Force board of directors today formally introduced Fayetteville Mayor Tony Chavonne as the new chairman of the BRAC RTF board of directors. Mayor Chavonne follows Tim McNeill who has served as board chairman since 2006. McNeill was commended at today's meeting for his service by the BRAC RTF board of directors. He has also received commendations from the commander of U.S. FORSCOM, Fort Bragg Garrison, and the DOD Office of Economic Adjustment. Chavonne has served as vice chairman of the BRAC RTF board of directors for three years. �Mayor Chavonne is uniquely qualified to serve as our chairman and will do an excellent job of serving the board and advocating for our 11 counties and 73 municipalities surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope AFB,� said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. Greg Taylor, former Bladen County Commissioner, was also approved by the BRAC RTF board of directors to serve as the board's Vice Chairman. Taylor has served as a BRAC RTF board member and a member of the executive committee since 2007. He is the economic development director at Fayetteville State University. Mayor Chavonne has served as mayor of Fayetteville since 2005 and is active within the local military community. He was appointed in 2007 to serve on the North Carolina Advisory Commission on Military Affairs. He is a member of the Bragg and Pope Special Activities Committees, and was named to the Congressional Military Activities Committee in 2000. Chavonne was awarded the Fayetteville Business & Professional League's Outstanding Contribution Award and Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Realtor's Cup Award in 2002. He also received the Sam Walton Business Leader Award in 1999, the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year award in 1996 and the Department of the Army Commander's Award for Public Service in 1995. The BRAC RTF is a partnership of governments working with the 11 counties and 73 municipalities surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope AFB. Our mission is to coordinate the planning and identify community impacts as U.S. Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command move to Fort Bragg by 2011.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications and Outreach
                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

BRAC RTF Annual Meeting Set for October 29

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:48:02 +0100

Date: 2009-10-15
Description: FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (Oct. 15, 2009) � The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) today announced the agenda for the organization's annual meeting scheduled from 9 a.m. until noon on October 29, 2009 at Snyder Memorial Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Fayetteville. The results of a major workforce study will be released at this meeting. Training Development and Associates, Inc. and Booz Allen Hamilton will discuss the results of the Defense and Homeland Security Cluster Analysis. Featured speakers include Gil Gilleland, SES, Deputy G-1, U.S. FORSCOM; Col. Stephen J. Sicinski, Garrison Commander, Fort Bragg; and Mike Alexander, Military Advisor to Governor Bev Perdue. Fayetteville State University Chancellor James Anderson will make remarks concerning the new North Carolina Center for Defense and Homeland Security that will be located at FSU. Futures, Inc., the company chosen to develop PipelineNC, the Web-based job connection platform, will provide an update on the features and benefits of this service. The BRAC RTF annual meetings attract over 300 community and business leaders from the 11 counties surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope AFB. Individuals interested in attending the October 29 annual meeting should register online at www.bracrtf.com or call 910-808-4189. Lunch will not be served at the conclusion of this meeting.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

Community Meeting to Discuss STEM Education in Public Schools

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:43:21 +0100

Date: 2009-09-18
Description: Community Meeting to Discuss STEM Education in Public Schools FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FAYETTEVILLE, NC (SEP 18, 2009) The BRAC Regional Task Force will host a community kick-off meeting to discuss the importance of STEM education in our regional public school systems. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 6 to 8 p.m. at 71st High School in Fayetteville. STEM is an innovative approach to education that uses Science, Technology, Engineering and Math to cultivate creativity in all students and develop their abilities to become problem solvers, innovators, inventors, logical thinkers, and strong communicators. The community kick-off meeting will engage citizens from the region who want to share their hopes for our students, our economy, and our community. Local, state and national speakers have been invited to give their perspective on STEM education. �The BRAC 2005 decision to relocate U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command to Fort Bragg brings a unique opportunity to our region,� said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. The Army commands are magnets to defense and homeland security jobs which are high paying, but require a skill set that has not previously been a primary workforce requirement. �To truly capitalize on the opportunity, we must prepare and train our students for a chance to compete for opportunities in high tech, highly skilled STEM career fields, �said Dordal. The 11-county Fort Bragg region has been recognized for its regional educational efforts by the NC STEM Community Collaborative (www.ncstem.org), a partnership between the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and MCNC based in the Research Triangle Park. The local region is only one of three in North Carolina being considered for Gates Foundation funding which would support innovative STEM education plans. The BRAC Regional Task Force and organizations from our surrounding areas � including Central Carolina Community College, Cumberland County Education Foundation, Cumberland County Schools, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville Technical Community College,UNC-Pembroke, Harnett County Schools, Kenan Fellows Program for Curriculum and Leadership Development, Lee County Schools, Richmond Community College, Robeson Community College, St. Andrews Presbyterian College, and Scotland County Schools � joined this partnership. The public is invited to attend this Community Kick-off Meeting. The deadline to register is Sept. 22, noon. Seating is limited and registration is required at http://www.bracrtf.com/meeting.php.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. 87129
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28304
                                  (910) 808-4202
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.ncstem.org
Link 2: www.bracrtf.com/meeting.php

BRAC RTF Receives $800,000 to Expand AACWI to 12 Public High Schools

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 20:10:12 +0100

Date: 2009-08-31
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC (AUG 31, 2009) � The BRAC Regional Task Force today announced that the N.C. Department of Commerce and the Division of Workforce Development (DWD) has awarded the BRAC RTF a grant totaling $800,000 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds received by the state of North Carolina. This grant award is part of Governor Perdue's JobsNOW initiative. �This funding will support the expansion of the All American Center for Workforce Innovation's pilot circuit concept and distributed learning network that connects educational institutions and business partners in the 11 counties,� said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. The grant award expands the technology in 12 pilot high schools and includes a fixed i3D theater, SMART board, video telepresence, HD cameras, and connectivity with a distributive learning network via the Internet. Recipients of this technology will be: West Bladen High School, Pine Forest High School, E.E. Smith High School, Overhills High School, Hoke County High School, Southern Lee High School, East Montgomery High School, Union Pines High School, Richmond Senior High School, Lumberton High School, Lakewood High School and Scotland High School. �High school classes at each of these schools will have this enhanced technology and videoconference capability to connect students with a subject matter expert in the region or around the world,� said Dordal. The BRAC RTF in partnership with Fayetteville Technical Community College and NAVTech have developed an innovative enhanced technology classroom that started with the placement of I3D theater systems in each of these high schools to enhance the learning environment in all Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) subject areas. The i3D theaters were made possible by a grant from the GoldenLEAF Foundation last December. Using this innovative technology in the region's classrooms has garnered recognition from the NC STEM Community Collaborative. The 11-county BRAC region is one of three communities in the state recognized as North Carolina's first STEM communities. The Enhanced Technology Classroom promotes a collaborative environment where fellow students have a unique opportunity to work with business professionals or master teachers to find new motivation to persist and excel in their learning. About the All American Center for Workforce Innovation (AACWI): The All American Center for Workforce Innovation opened in June 2008 at Fayetteville Technical Community College with the focus of developing skilled talent for the region's targeted high-growth, high-skill, and high-wage industries, which include defense and homeland security. The BRAC Regional Task Force opened the AACWI in conjunction with Fayetteville Tech's ribbon cutting of the Advanced Visualization Center last year. The All American Center for Workforce Innovation, with FTCC as the hub, is a world-class visualization center focused on learning how to create, build, and deliver real-time, photo-realistic interactive 3D objects to present content to any person at any time and at any location. The Center will serve as a regional experience and discovery center and represents the establishment of North Carolina as the leader in i3D education and content development.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910)
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

Dr. Kathi Beratan Joins BRAC RTF

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:26:19 +0100

Date: 2009-08-27
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC - (August 28, 2009) The BRAC Regional Task Force today announced that Dr. Kathi Beratan, research assistant professor at the N.C. State University Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, has joined the BRAC RTF as a Policy Advisor and External Partnership Liaison. Dr. Beratan will advise BRAC RTF staff in their regional planning and workforce development programs and provide specific guidance to BRAC partners, local governments, and non-profit organizations as they tailor strategies to implement recommendations from the Comprehensive Regional Growth Plan and develop programs for adopting sustainable business practices. Dr. Beratan has worked closely with the BRAC Regional Task Force over the past two years, assisting with strategic planning, program design and evaluation, process facilitation, and information design. She has been instrumental in developing the BRAC RTF's Agriculture-based rural development initiative, and in planning the regional food system component. Presently, she serves as a project coordinator on for a USDA Stimulus Grant Application that would implement "Feed the Forces", a newly developed farm-to-institution program that connects local farmers with Fort Bragg and all the military installations in eastern North Carolina. Dr. Beratan has over a decade of experience in the field of Sustainability Science. She is currently applying this expertise through collaborative interactions with Sustainable Sandhills and the North Carolina Sandhills Conservation Partnership, developing an engagement strategy for recruiting forest landowners to participate in a Landowners' Council that can provide a two-way communications channel between conservation groups and landowners, including Fort Bragg. The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) is a partnership of governments encompassing 11 counties and 73 municipalities. The state of North Carolina formed the organization to address issues related to the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Law and other transformational growth actions. The task force serves as the liaison between Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base, the communities, and the state and federal agencies involved in providing assistance and support to communities affected by BRAC 2005 actions. www.bracrtf.com.
Contact Information: Rene Lane, Communications Outreach Coordinator
                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

Paul Dordal Elected to Association of Defense Communities Board

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:20:16 +0100

Date: 2009-08-10
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC - (August 10, 2009) The BRAC Regional Task Force today announced that Paul Dordal, executive director, was elected to serve on the Association of Defense Communities board of directors. The announcement was made last week at organization's annual conference held in Boston. "This is a great opportunity to have North Carolina, which has the third largest military presence in the country, represented on the ADC board," said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. The Association of Defense Communities (ADC) is the voice for communities and states with a significant military presence. As the nation's premiere membership organization serving America's defense communities, ADC's 1,200 members unite the diverse interests of communities, state government, the private sector, and the military on issues of base closure, community-military partnerships, defense real estate, mission growth, mission sustainment, military privatization, and redevelopment realignment. The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) is a partnership of governments encompassing 11 counties and 73 municipalities. The state of North Carolina formed the organization to address issues related to the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Law and other transformational growth actions. The task force serves as the liaison between Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base, the communities, and the state and federal agencies involved in providing assistance and support to communities affected by BRAC 2005 actions. For more information: www.bracrtf.com.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: defensecommunities.org

Gen. (Ret) McNeill to Address Defense Business Association

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:33:55 +0100

Date: 2009-07-27
Description: General (Ret) Dan McNeill to Address All American Defense Business Association FORT BRAGG, NC � (JULY 27, 2009) The BRAC Regional Task Force will host a general membership luncheon meeting for the All American Defense Business Association on August 19, at the Crown Center Ballroom, in Fayetteville. The guest speaker is U. S. Army General Dan K. McNeill who retired in June 2008 after 40 years of military service. His remarks will cover the U.S. Army Forces Command move to Fort Bragg and what it means to local defense contractors. Prior to retirement, General McNeill served as former Commander, International Security Assistance Force, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Afghanistan. General McNeill was commissioned as a second lieutenant of Infantry through the ROTC program at NC State University and graduated in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science Degree. He is also a graduate of the U. S. Army War College. As a general officer, General McNeill has held several positions throughout his military career. Some of his past assignments include Commanding General of the U.S. Army Forces Command and Deputy Commanding General/Chief of Staff, U.S. Army Forces Command at Fort McPherson, Ga. He served as Commanding General of the XVII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg where his duties included Combined Joint Task Force 180, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He was Commanding General of the 82nd Airborne Division and Assistant Chief of Staff G-3, XVIII Airborne Corps. His tours of duty include Uphold Democracy, Operation Just Cause, Panama, and Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. General McNeill is a native of Warsaw, N.C. and now resides in Fayetteville with his wife, Maureen. Reservations for this luncheon are required and the cost is $25 for nonmembers. For more information, visit the All American Defense Business Association Web site at www.aadba.com or contact Joy Thrash at 910-527-1103, jthrash@bracrtf.com.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications and Outreach Coordinator
                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.aadba.com

BRAC RTF Relocation Guide for FORSCOM and USARC Personnel

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 19:35:00 +0100

Date: 2009-07-20
Description: The BRAC Regional Task Force is working with The Fayetteville Observer to publish a Relocation Guide in September to coincide with the Relocation Fair at Fort McPherson. This Relocation Guide is an excellent opportunity for businesses and organizations in the 11 counties to reach Fort McPherson personnel and their families. In addition, this guide will be distributed to a number of Army transition offices around the country, Fort Bragg Army Community Service office, and also at the Association of United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting and Expo in Washington, DC. Please see the sales flyer for more information and rates. U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command Headquarters will transfer from Fort McPherson, Ga., and bring 3,000 senior Army decision makers to Fort Bragg by mid-2011. The move is expected to bring nearly 40,000 new residents to the region by 2013. Personal income projected to grow to $44.95 billion during this time period. This includes $1.28 billion from the planned military growth. The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) is a partnership of governments encompassing 11 counties and 73 municipalities. The state of North Carolina formed the organization to address issues related to the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Law and other transformational growth actions. The task force serves as the liaison between Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base, the communities, and the state and federal agencies involved in providing assistance and support to communities affected by BRAC 2005 actions. For more information: www.bracrtf.com.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications and Outreach Coordinator
                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/documents/09_BRAC_Relocation.pdf

BRAC Regional Task Force Releases RFQ for Regional Water/Waste Water Utilities Infrastructure Plan

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 19:14:33 +0100

Date: 2009-06-22
Description: BRAC Regional Task Force Releases RFQ for Regional Water/Waste Water Utilities Infrastructure Plan FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FORT BRAGG, NC (JUNE 22, 2009) � The BRAC Regional Task Force today released a Request for Quotation associated with developing a Regional Water/Waste Water Utilities Infrastructure Plan. The plan would cover Fayetteville Public Works Commission service area, Harnett County, Moore County and Hoke County. BRAC Regional Task Force proposes to develop a Regional Water and Waste Water Infrastructure Plan that proactively develops a comprehensive baseline of water and wastewater capacity in the region, identifies gaps in capacity to meet the growth in demand, recommendations to address these gaps, including optimal locations for new facilities if needed, and identification of potential funding sources to enhance regional capacity. Quotations are due via e-mail only by 5 p.m., July 3. Details are located at the BRAC RTF Web site: www.bracrtf.com under Active Proposals. The BRAC Regional Task Force was established in 2005 to unify the BRAC regional planning efforts of the 11 counties and 73 municipalities surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope AFB. BRAC RTF serves as the liaison between the military; the communities; state and federal agencies designated to provide community assistance for BRAC.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications Outreach Coordinator
                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: http://www.bracrtf.com/active_proposals.php

BRAC RTF Releases RFP for Region-wide Transportation Plan

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:55:07 +0100

Date: 2009-06-22
Description: BRAC RTF Releases RFP for Region-wide Transportation Plan FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FORT BRAGG, NC (JUNE 22, 2009) -- The BRAC Regional Task Force today released a proposal to develop a sub-area travel demand model. The proposal will be awarded to a firm that will develop a transportation model, based upon the adopted FAMPO (Fayetteville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization) traffic demand model, to be used for analysis purposes. The area of study would include portions of Cumberland, Hoke, Moore, and Harnett Counties. This model would measure the potential impacts of both N.C. Department of Transportation and on-post highway projects, providing enough detail-about traffic into as well as within Fort Bragg-to support the posing and evaluating of alternative traffic scenarios. The model would be comprehensive enough to analyze the area's peak conditions and measure the impacts of the I-295 extension, the planned Murchison Road improvements, and the closure of Bragg Boulevard. Travel demand management is the application of strategies and policies to reduce automobile travel. Transportation planners have developed numerous computer models to analyze travel demand and to measure the effectiveness of adding travel lanes, initiating carpools, increasing alternative modes of transportation such as transit, rail, pedestrian, and non-motorized options. The deadline to respond is 3 p.m., July 20, 2009. This is a fixed price contract. Work on the project should commence as soon as possible after the contract award, preferably by early August, 2009. The project should be completed and recommendations made by early spring 2010. The BRAC Regional Task Force was established in 2005 to unify the BRAC regional planning efforts of the 11 counties and 73 municipalities surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope AFB. BRAC RTF serves as the liaison between the military; the communities; state and federal agencies designated to provide community assistance for BRAC.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications Outreach Coordinator
                                  P.O., Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com

$1.5 Million NSF Grant To Support Development of Master Teachers in BRAC Region

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:38:29 +0100

Date: 2009-06-01
Description: $1.5 Million NSF Grant To Support Development of Master Teachers in BRAC Region FORT BRAGG, NC (JUNE 1, 2009) Outstanding public school teachers in the 11-county BRAC region will partner with leading researchers at North Carolina State University to develop new curricula for schools across the state through teacher fellowships established by a $1.5 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to the Kenan Fellows Program. "This 11-county region is bursting with growth and opportunity, so we must continue to help our best teachers build their leadership skills which will pay dividends in the classroom for students," said Gov. Bev Perdue. "These Master Teachers will help prepare our kids for a 21st century workforce, and they will help develop new teachers in the region." The Kenan Fellows Program for Curriculum and Leadership Development, an initiative of NC State's Kenan Institute for Engineering, Technology & Science, has received an NSF grant to establish fellowships for the most outstanding K-12 teachers in the 11-county Base Realignment and Closure/Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) area. NC State's Chancellor James Oblinger states, "The Kenan Fellows Program is a proven, innovative example of NC State's statewide impact, particularly at the K-12 level. This grant will extend the program's reach, providing unique opportunities for learning through collaborative research and enhanced curriculum development. NC State is proud to be a part of this program's success." "Expanding the Kenan Fellows Program to our region's best teachers will be an excellent opportunity for these educators to engage with the STEM research community and share valuable lessons with students across the 11 counties and throughout the state," said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. The region surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base includes Bladen, Cumberland, Harnett, Moore, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Richmond, Robeson, Sampson and Scotland counties. The BRAC RTF was established to identify and advocate for the needs of these counties, along with military, corporate, non-profit and government agencies. This five-year grant from NSF's Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program will allow the Kenan Master Teaching Fellows Program (KMTF) to link experienced teachers with university, industry and community college researchers. As a result of this grant, teachers will become more informed about important new scientific developments, build their leadership skills and develop curricula that support economic development sectors unique to the region such as aerospace, sustainable energy/green technologies and advanced medical technologies. The KMTF will complete two-year fellowships and subsequently engage in a range of leadership activities in their home districts to benefit other teachers, administrators and students during their three years as Alumni Master Teachers. As Master Teachers, they will also assist in local schools of education in the preparation of new teachers. "The William R. Kenan, Jr. Fund for Engineering, Technology and Science is very proud of its role as the original funder of the Kenan Fellows Program. We are particularly pleased that the National Science Foundation shares our commitment to the support of teachers of science and mathematics and has recognized the Kenan Institute's success with a grant that will enable the program to expand," says Dr. Richard M. Krasno, President of the William R. Kenan, Jr. Fund for Engineering, Technology and Science. The National Science Board's recommendations to the Obama administration emphasized the critical need for upgrades in the nation's commitment to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. Skilled teachers, solid tools and resources are essential to the task. The Kenan Master Teaching Fellows Program will help achieve this by: � Building a network of highly trained and influential master STEM teachers � Engaging talented researchers in an effort to update the content knowledge of K-12 STEM teachers � Working to align the efforts of institutions of higher education, local school districts, regional economic/workforce development organizations and industry � Helping teachers prepare students for 21st century careers � Contributing to the development of new teachers A steering committee made up of Kenan Fellows Program staff and local partners, including educators, researchers, community and business leaders and the BRAC RTF, will guide this effort to ensure that the opportunities afforded by this grant are effective and sustainable beyond the five-year grant period. This award was made possible with support from the Kenan Institute for Engineering, Technology & Science/William R. Kenan, Jr. Fund for Engineering, Technology and Science, NC State, BRAC Regional Task Force, local school districts, North Carolina Cooperative Extension, and business and community leaders. Media Contact(s) Dr. Valerie B. Brown-Schild, Kenan Fellows Program for Curriculum and Leadership Development, (919) 515-5118 Renee Lane, BRAC Regional Task Force (910)436-1345
Fayetteville, NC (910)
Link 1: news.ncsu.edu/news/2009/06/wmsnoycensf.htm

U. S. Senator Richard Burr Sponsors Defense Trade Show

Thu, 07 May 2009 13:52:11 +0100

Date: 2009-05-07
Description: U. S. Senator Richard Burr will host a Defense Trade Show on August 10 at Fayetteville Tech. More information is forthcoming.
Fayetteville, NC (910)

BRAC RTF Hosts Relocation Fair at Fort McPherson

Fri, 01 May 2009 15:10:14 +0100

Date: 2009-05-01
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC (MAY 1, 2009) - The BRAC Regional Task Force today announced it will host the fourth Relocation Fair which will be held on September 23, at the Commons located at Fort McPherson, Ga. "The is the fourth and final Relocation Fair for the soldiers and civilians working at U.S. Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command," said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC RTF. The BRAC RTF staff is working with representatives from the 11 counties surrounding Fort Bragg who will attend the event and speak to education, recreation, housing, healthcare and other areas of interest to the prospective newcomers. U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command Headquarters will transfer from Fort McPherson, Ga., and bring 3,000 senior Army decision makers to Fort Bragg by mid-2011. Construction is underway on the new $288.5 million combined headquarters building on Fort Bragg. The move is expected to bring nearly 40,000 new residents to the region by 2013. Personal income projected to grow to $44.95 billion during this time period. This includes $1.28 billion from the planned military growth. The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) is a partnership of governments encompassing 11 counties and 73 municipalities. The state of North Carolina formed the organization to address issues related to the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Law and other transformational growth actions. The task force serves as the liaison between Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base, the communities, and the state and federal agencies involved in providing assistance and support to communities affected by BRAC 2005 actions. For more information: www.bracrtf.com.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

BRAC Region Kenan Fellows Announced

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 18:20:48 +0100

Date: 2009-04-23
Description: BRAC Region Kenan Fellows Announced FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FORT BRAGG, NC (APR 23, 2009) - The BRAC Regional Task Force today announced that two teachers from the region have been selected by the Kenan Fellows Program for Curriculum and Leadership Development at North Carolina State University. "We are very pleased to have a teacher from Cumberland County and one from Moore County selected as Kenan Fellows. Bringing this program to the region also requires us to have a funding component for the teachers. Kenan Fellows would not be possible without the generous financial support and commitment of many business partners in these counties, said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. The BRAC RTF and the Kenan Fellows Program for Curriculum and Leadership Development met months ago to find a way to expand this exceptional program for teachers in the Fort Bragg region. The Kenan Fellows program emphasizes innovative learning applications, promotes teacher leadership, addresses teacher retention, and advances K-12 science, technology and mathematics education. Wayne Lee, a drafting teacher from Pine Forest High School in Cumberland County, has been selected as a Class of 2011 Kenan Fellow. Beginning in June, 2009, he will engage in a two-year fellowship supported by the Champions of Freedom, the BRAC Regional Task Force, Lockheed Martin and Cumberland County Schools. He will develop innovative curricula for use in North Carolina classrooms while working with mentor David Smith from Fayetteville Technical Community College. His project is entitled �Using i3D Technology in the Classroom.� As part of the two-year fellowship, Lee will train to be a master teacher, work closely with his mentor in developing his project, participate in research to develop inquiry-guided instruction to be used in the classroom, develop and distribute his lessons statewide, talk with state leaders at events that promote the teaching profession, train to be a teacher leader and present findings at state and national conferences. Lee is a National Board Certified teacher with 20 years of teaching experience. He has served as an officer in several national Career and Technical Education organizations. Jason Harris, a second grade teacher at Southern Pines Primary School in Moore County, has also been selected as a Class of 2011 Kenan Fellow. Beginning in June, 2009, he will engage in a two-year fellowship supported by the Moore County Consortium and the BRAC Regional Task Force to develop innovative curricula for use in North Carolina classrooms while working with mentor Gayla Keesee from Fayetteville Technical Community College. His project is entitled �Using i3D Technology in the Classroom.� As part of the two-year fellowship, Harris will train to be a master teacher, work closely with his mentor in developing his project, participate in research to develop inquiry-guided instruction to be used in the classroom, develop and distribute his lessons statewide, talk with state leaders at events that promote the teaching profession, train to be a teacher leader and present findings at state and national conferences. Harris has received a grant from Moore County Public Education fund to support his teaching and has made presentations at a NASA Preservice Conference and the North Carolina Council of Teachers of Mathematics. The BRAC Regional Task Force and the NC State Cooperative Extension were instrumental in recruiting support for this fellowship. Members of the Moore County Consortium include: SAIC, K2 Solutions, Hobbs, Upchurch & Associates, Southern Software, Moore County Schools, Thermal Metal Treating, Inc., Central Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, Moore County Government, and McGill Engineering. Three teachers from Lee Early College in Lee County have also been selected for the Kenan Fellows program and are being funded through a grant from the National Science Foundation. Dave Nourse, Rodney Schmitz and Staci Whitton will be working on STEM, chemistry and gaming applications with mentors from NC State University. ### Contact: Tom Knott, tom_knott@ncsu.edu, (919) 515-5118 or Renee Lane, rlane@bracrtf.com, 910-436-1345 About the Kenan Fellows Program: The Kenan Fellows Program is an initiative of the Kenan Institute for Engineering, Technology & Science at North Carolina State University. It is an innovative model to promote teacher leadership, address teacher retention and advance K-12 science, technology, engineering and mathematics education. Kenan Fellows are public school teachers selected through a competitive process to participate in a prestigious two-year fellowship, all while remaining active in the classroom. Read more about the Kenan Fellows Program at www.kenanfellows.org. About the BRAC Regional Task Force: The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) is a partnership of governments encompassing 11 counties and 73 municipalities. The state of North Carolina formed the organization to address issues related to the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Law and other transformational growth actions. The task force serves as the liaison between Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base, the communities, and the state and federal agencies involved in providing assistance and support to communities affected by BRAC 2005 actions. For more information: www.bracrtf.com
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications Outreach
                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.kenanfellows.org

BRAC RTF Receives NC State University Economic Development Partnership Award

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 18:17:09 +0100

Date: 2009-04-23
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC (APR 23, 2009) - The BRAC Regional Task Force has been awarded the 2009 Economic Development Partnership Award from NC State University. "We are proud to recognize the BRAC Regional Task Force for actively involving NC State in your exciting mission growth in the region. We were honored to have our Kenan Fellows Program and Economic Development Partnership be featured at your 2008 BRAC RTF Annual Meeting. I look forward to continuing this exemplary partnership," said Dr. Zuiches, vice chancellor for Extension, Engagement and Economic Development at NC State University. Dr. Zuiches presided over the annual awards reception held on Monday, April 20, at the Jane S. McKimmon Center. Tom White, director of Economic Development Partnership at NC State presented the award to Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC RTF. "NC State is engaged and energized by the opportunities BRAC brings to our region, and is an excellent partner on many of our economic transformation concepts and projects," said Dordal. The Economic Development Partnership Award recognizes excellence in creating and collaborating on innovative approaches to University-based economic development that leverage University capabilities to enhance North Carolina's economic vitality. Recipients of the award are demonstrated leaders in helping NC State bring innovation into action. The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) is a partnership of governments encompassing 11 counties and 73 municipalities. The state of North Carolina formed the organization to address issues related to the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Law and other transformational growth actions. The task force serves as the liaison between Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base, the communities, and the state and federal agencies involved in providing assistance and support to communities affected by BRAC 2005 actions.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com

BRAC RTF Posts Combined Headquarters Construction Photo Gallery Online

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:07:26 +0100

Date: 2009-03-27
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC (MAR 27, 2009) � The Fort Bragg/Pope AFB BRAC Regional Task Force today announced the addition of a FORSCOM/USARC Construction Site Photo Gallery to the BRAC RTF home page, www.bracrtf.com. Users may access several recent photos of the construction site and watch the building construction progress over time. The photo gallery will be updated on a frequent basis. The combined headquarters project is slated for completion in June 2011. U.S. Army Forces Command and U. S. Army Reserve Command will occupy the 700,000 square feet of space. Over 2,000 military and civilian personnel will work in the combined headquarters. The building project which costs more than $288 million is the largest construction project in the state. The Fort Bragg/Pope Air Force Base BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) is a partnership of governments encompassing 11 counties and 73 municipalities. The state of North Carolina formed the organization to address issues related to the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Law and other transformational growth actions. The task force serves as the liaison between Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base, the communities, and the state and federal agencies involved in providing assistance and support to communities affected by BRAC 2005 actions. The BRAC RTF is governed by a board of directors, which consists of a representative from each of the 11 counties, usually a commissioner along with a municipal representative � mayor or town manager.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications Outreach Coordinator
                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com

International Economic Development Council Publishes BRAC Article

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:48:58 +0100

Date: 2009-03-20
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC (MAR 20) The Fort Bragg/Pope AFB BRAC Regional Task Force today announced that the International Economic Development Council has published an article written by Paul Dordal in the Winter issue of the Economic Development Journal. The article, "BRAC: A Regional Opportunity" focuses on the BRAC Regional Task Force and its efforts to organize regionally to prepare for the BRAC growth at Fort Bragg and Pope AFB in 2011. The journal, published quarterly, is the premier publication for economic developers worldwide and features in-depth accounts of important programs, projects, and trends from the United States and around the world. The BRAC Regional Task Force (BRAC RTF) was established to unify the BRAC regional planning efforts of the 11 counties and 73 municipalities surrounding Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base. BRAC RTF serves as the liaison between the military; the communities; state and federal agencies designated to provide community assistance for BRAC. For more information go to www.bracrtf.com. Contact: Renee Lane Commuications Outreach Coordinator BRAC Regional Task Force rlane@bracrtf.com 910-436-1345
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fayetteville, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.bracrtf.com/documents/EDj_Winter09_dordal.pdf
Link 2: www.bracrtf.com

Hensel Phelps Accepting Applications for Construction Employment

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:30:37 +0100

Date: 2009-03-17
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC (Mar. 17, 2009) - The BRAC Regional Task Force today announced that several construction-related openings with job descriptions are posted on www.buildbragg.com. The job openings have been posted by Hensel Phelps, the prime contractor for the combined headquarters complex for the U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command on Fort Bragg. The company seeks to hire concrete carpenters, general construction and concrete laborers, a commercial concrete carpenter foreman, and equipment operators. Hensel Phelps will be accepting applications for these positions this week. Qualified applicants should apply in person with a resume on Thursday, March 19, from 8 until 11 a.m., at Building 8-2422 Scott Street, Fort Bragg (vicinity of the former Main Post Bowling Lanes). Applicants must present valid state or government identification and vehicle registration at the following installation check points: Randolph Street, All American Expressway, or Knox Street. Job descriptions are posted at www.buildbragg.com. Over 200 job seekers applied for similar positions with Hensel Phelps last week. The company accepted applications for skilled and unskilled construction positions. Hensel Phelps is seeking to fill 25 to 30 positions at this time. "Over the next three years nearly 2,000 construction workers will be needed to build the more than 700,000 square-foot combined headquarters building," said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. The Fort Bragg/Pope AFB BRAC Regional Task Force partnered with Hensel Phelps, Inc., and the N.C. Department of Commerce Division of Workforce Development and contracted with Futures, Inc. to provide the Fort Bragg region with a Web portal, www.buildbragg.com, for construction employment and subcontracting information related to the combined headquarters building project for U.S. Forces Command and the U.S. Army Reserve Command. Hensel Phelps, Inc. was selected as the prime contractor by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers last September to build the combined headquarters building for U.S. Army Forces Command and the U. S. Army Reserve Command. These commands will relocate to Fort Bragg from Fort McPherson, Ga. in early summer 2011.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.buildbragg.com
Link 2: www.bracrtf.com

Combined Headquarters Construction Jobs Now Available

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 17:20:23 +0100

Date: 2009-03-09
Description: Combined Headquarters Construction Jobs Now Available FORT BRAGG, NC (Mar 9, 2009) - The BRAC Regional Task Force today announced that several construction-related job openings are posted on www.buildbragg.com. This Web site is the online resource for construction employment for the U.S. Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command combined headquarters building project at Fort Bragg. The job openings have been posted by Hensel Phelps, the prime contractor on this project. The company seeks to hire concrete carpenters, general construction and concrete laborers, a commercial concrete carpenter foreman, and equipment operators. Job seekers are requested to apply in person with a resume on Thursday, March 12 from 8 until 11 a.m., at Building 8-2422 Scott Street, Fort Bragg (vicinity of the former Main Post Bowling Lanes). Applicants must present valid state or government identification and vehicle registration at the following installation check points: Randolph Street, All American Expressway, or Knox Street. The Fort Bragg/Pope AFB BRAC Regional Task Force partnered with Hensel Phelps, Inc., and the N.C. Department of Commerce Division of Workforce Development and contracted with Futures, Inc. to provide the Fort Bragg region with a Web portal for construction employment and subcontracting information related to the combined headquarters building project for U.S. Forces Command and the U.S. Army Reserve Command. Hensel Phelps, Inc. was selected as the prime contractor by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers last September to build the combined headquarters building for U.S. Army Forces Command and the U. S. Army Reserve Command. These commands will relocate to Fort Bragg from Fort McPherson, Ga. in early summer 2011.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.buildbragg.com
Link 2: www.bracrtf.com

Combined Headquarters Construction Employment and Subcontracting Information Now Online

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 18:50:50 +0100

Date: 2009-02-21
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC (FEB 21, 2009) - The Fort Bragg/Pope AFB BRAC Regional Task Force today announced that it has partnered with Hensel Phelps, Inc., and the N.C. Department of Commerce Division of Workforce Development and contracted with Futures, Inc. to provide the Fort Bragg region with a Web portal for construction employment and subcontracting information related to the combined headquarters building project for U.S. Forces Command and the U.S. Army Reserve Command. The Web portal is www.buildbragg.com and is also accessible from the BRAC RTF Web site, www.bracrtf.com. "Nearly 2,000 construction workers will be needed by Hensel Phelps and its subcontractors to build the more than 700,000 square-foot combined headquarters building over the next three years. This Web portal is a centralized solution for individuals who are skilled in the construction trades and businesses interested in subcontracting on this project," said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. Hensel Phelps, Inc. was selected as the prime contractor by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers last September to build the combined headquarters building for U.S. Army Forces Command and the U. S. Army Reserve Command. These commands will relocate to Fort Bragg from Fort McPherson, Ga. in early summer 2011. Components of buildbragg.com include: - Project Timeline and Job Opportunities: Construction trade and craft workers from across the Fort Bragg region may go online and learn more about the employment process. Buildbragg.com will feature jobs that will be needed throughout the course of the building project. Employment information will be posted on the Web site regarding the application process as construction positions become available. - Explore Additional Opportunities: For those interested in construction career exploration or skill advancement, the site also offers videos and information on community college classes and certification programs in the region. - Subcontracting Information: Firms that have an interest in subcontracting can access Hensel Phelps' bid package schedules for the combined headquarters building project. - Learn More About Hensel Phelps - Information about the company and the safety culture are included on buildbragg.com. Companies selected to subcontract on this project with Hensel Phelps may use buildbragg.com to hire their workforce. The site also offers a link to the N.C. Military Business Center (www.ncmbc.us) so that interested firms can access a subcontractor registration page. Individuals seeking employment who do not have Internet access may visit a local JobLink Center to learn more. "We are making this a seamless process by involving the N.C. Department of Commerce JobLink Centers. They will have access to the portal from their offices and are prepared to work with interested individuals on a walk-in basis," said Dordal.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com
Link 1: www.buildbragg.com
Link 2: www.bracrtf.com

BRAC RTF Funds Study of Underrepresented and Disadvantaged Populations

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 18:26:18 +0100

Date: 2009-02-18
Description: FORT BRAGG, NC (FEB 18, 2009) � The Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base BRAC Regional Task Force and Fayetteville State University today held a contract signing ceremony which marks the beginning of a comprehensive study for the BRAC RTF by Fayetteville State University and UNC-Pembroke of the �Economic Impact of BRAC in the 11 Member Counties: Bridging the Gap of the Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Populations.� �Fayetteville State University is pleased to have a leadership role in this study with UNC-Pembroke. Our universities have long represented and fulfilled the needs of students in this region and can best understand the dynamics of populations identified in the study,� said James Anderson, chancellor of Fayetteville State University. Chancellor Anderson hosted and presided over the ceremony with BRAC RTF Executive Director Paul Dordal. �Our goals are to determine how BRAC will impact the underrepresented and disadvantaged population in the region and what resources we can identify to assist these citizens with educational advancement, employment and other areas addressed by the findings of this study,� said Dordal. The BRAC RTF is funding this $83,000 study from the U.S. Department of Labor Workforce Demonstration Grant. The study completion date is targeted for mid-July. The project team for this study includes Floyd Shorter, principal investigator and director of the Fayetteville Small Business Center. He will serve as the liaison between the collaborative research team and the BRAC RTF. Dr. Assad Tavakoli, dean of the School of Business and Economics at Fayetteville State, will serve as co-principal investigator. Project manager is Dr. Pamela Jackson who serves as assistant dean of the School of Business and Economics at Fayetteville State. Her primary role will be to oversee the day-to-day implementation of the study by the faculty research scientists from Fayetteville State and UNC-Pembroke, and graduate students and research assistants supporting this study. Representing UNC-Pembroke was Dr. Cammie Hunt-Oxendine, interim dean of the School of Business. The work of the research scientists from both universities will encompass many stakeholder groups such as the community colleges, minority and tribal organizations, government, social services, Workforce Development Boards and many others. Fayetteville State and UNC-Pembroke will co-host Community Summits to engage the stakeholder groups from the 11 counties and to ensure all relevant issues are addressed. For more information, call Jeff Womble at (910) 672-1474 or Renee Lane at (910) 436-1345.
Contact Information: Renee Lane,                                  P.O. Box 70999
                                  Fort Bragg, NC    28307
                                  (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com

Working Lands Protection Program Survey Underway

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 18:13:31 +0100

Date: 2009-02-06
Description: Working Lands Protection Program Survey Underway FORT BRAGG, NC (FEB 6, 2009) � The Fort Bragg/ Pope AFB BRAC Regional Task Force the Working Lands Protection Program (WLPP) for the Fort Bragg Region is fully underway. Funding for this program was awarded in June 2008 by the N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund. The WLPP is being directed by members of the BRAC RTF staff with the Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center at Mount Olive College as the principal consultant and will create a Working Lands Protection Plan for each of the 11 counties surrounding Fort Bragg. The WLPP will help counties develop additional tools and strategies to strengthen the economic viability of farms and forests. Once the WLPP is adopted by the county and certified by the N.C. Department of Agriculture, it will give priority status for counties seeking future grants from the Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund. Essential to the development of the WLPP is a survey of agricultural producers, timber land owners, agribusinesses, and citizens-at-large. Surveys are available at each county's Cooperative Extension office and will be available online at each participating agency's Web site. �It is vital to get opinions from these stakeholder groups in preparing this plan� said Paul Dordal, executive director of the BRAC Regional Task Force. Responses to the survey will help determine the needs of the industry and will also be used to evaluate the types of economic incentives that could be offered to farmers and landowners. The information will also aid in examining the potential for farmland and open space protection programs and provide recommendations for the future of agriculture and forestry in the region. The surveys do not require specific identifying information from citizens or landowners and all submissions will be confidential. To receive a survey or for additional information, please contact Grace Lawrence, WLPP Director at (919) 518-6463 or glawrence@bracrtf.com.
Contact Information: Renee Lane, Communications Outreach Coordinator
                                  BRAC Regional Task Force
                                  Fayetteville, NC                                     (910) 436-1345
                                  rlane@bracrtf.com